TV_R   You think I’ll ever have a chance?

TV_L   With your Code?

TV_R   It's a novel idea.

TV_L   Can you even market a 'Raisin black' competitor?

TV_R   Maybe if they do another food-themed season.

TV_R   Don't count me out just yet.

TV_L   Just trying to be realistic.

TV_L   But hey, if that works out, maybe I can join in.

TV_R   With YOUR Code?

TV_L   It's a classic.

TV_R   You're the only person in the world who likes licorice.

TV_L   We've got more fans than raisins!

TV_R   We can't start this up again. There's only a quarter of the episode left.

TV_R   I’ll be cheering for you from the podium.

TV_L   You think you'll make it to the end?

TV_L   When a prize like that is on the line, you're looking at stiff competition.

TV_L   There will be more than just hospital gurneys wheeling folks around.

TV_R   Helicopters?

TV_L   Something fancier than that.

TV_R   You've never been a creative person.

TV_L   Well, they've got creative people in The Program! They’ll figure it out!

AK   Gabrielle?

GB   Eek!

GB   Yes, hello again!

GB   The pothos - I've placed it with the others in the back.

GB   You should be good to -

GB   ...

GB   Y-You know my name?

You can't read his expression. He sighs again, though he seems less exhausted at you and more at... something else.

AK   Skylar.

AK   She's quite taken with you.

GB   She is?

GB   I suppose I could tell a little... but I'm afraid I don't know her all too well.

GB   She all too quickly flits in and out of here.

AK   Yes, a miracle she's gotten so invested in such matters.

AK   What exactly is her business at the florist?

AK   At least, at this one?

GB   She doesn't tell you?

AK   Merely flippant lies, from what I can perceive.

AK   She would never sequester herself inside a building that isn't a gym.

AK   That's why I come to you.

Well, you're not going to speak on her behalf - especially about her business.

So, you put your hand on your chest and play a little dumb.

GB   Goodness. I'm flattered, then.

GB   She seems to be enjoying herself here.

GB   Maybe it's due to our wide spread. You couldn't find these naturally around here.

AK   ...

His posture remains firmly tucked inward, as if avoiding any speck of dirt.

GB   She was... a bit like you are now, at first.

GB   Only looking. Maybe touch the leaves, smell the petals.

AK   Then?

GB   Then, I don't know.

GB   The flowers graced her with their love, I suppose.

AK   ...

AK   I’m afraid I don’t understand.

GB   Someday, I'm sure she'll share it with you.

AK   A passion for plantlife?

AK   I wouldn't count on it.

His sigh feels particularly brief, as if punctuating a concluding thought.

AK   So, Skylar has established herself here.

AK   That's fine.

AK   Whatever keeps her busy.

AK   Now. (ahem) Onto more valuable matters.

GB   Yes?

AK   Payment.

---

> continue