Follow the link below to read part 3 of this short story.
short story: the comedian, part 3
Erica’s call came about a half hour earlier than Mason’s alarm. Disoriented from both the ring and his surroundings, Mason answered without checking the caller ID, his voice groggy.
“H-hello.”
“Mason? Were you asleep?”
He already knew what her next question would be, but he needed the time she would take to ask it to come up with his next lie.
Mason sprang to his feet at the sound of Erica’s voice. “Hey, babe. Yeah.” He already knew what her next question would be, but he needed the time she would take to ask it to come up with his next lie.
“Aren’t you supposed to be at work?” Erica asked, checking her watch.
“I had a headache, so I left a little early,” Mason responded, then quickly changed the subject. “How are you and your parents?”
“Just the usual weekly errands with mom and dad. Beauty salon, grocery shopping… all of it. It’s been a long day, but we’re all okay.”
“That’s good to hear,” Mason answered. “Wait. But today’s Thursday. You usually do all of that on Friday.”
Mason heard only silence. He checked his wireless signal then continued, “Erica? Did I lose you?”
“No. I’m here. Sorry. I thought I heard mom calling. Yes, you’re right, but dad’s doctor only had a Thursday opening this week.”
“Oh, I see.”
“Sorry I woke you. How’s your headache?”
“Oh, it’s fine.” Feeling guilty for lying, Mason changed the subject. “Did you need something?”
“Actually, yes. The twins called last night. They need you to drop a few things off tomorrow. Some stuff they need for a formal dance on Saturday.”
“Drop off where? NYU?”
“Well, yes, Mason. That is their school.”
“I’m not sure if I can tomorrow. What do they need anyway?”
“Go tonight then. They need the dresses from their graduation party last year… the navy ones. Also, the shoes and the–“
Mason cut in, aggravated. “Why didn’t they take what they needed when they were home last weekend?”
“Because they didn’t have dates then, and they didn’t want to go alone. Things change… why are you giving me a hard time? I’d do it, but I’m not there. What’s going on with–“
Mason broke in again, “I’m sorry. You’re right. It’s just… I’m worried I’ll get the wrong thing. Let me see if Madison’s home to help me. Can I check with her and call you back?”
After a brief pause, Erica responded… curtly, “Fine. Call me right back, Mason.”
Mason disconnected the phone and dialed Madison.
“What’s up, Mace-hole? Did you make it to Jacksonville?”
“Oh yeah. I’m here, and now Erica wants me to chauffeur the twins’ frocks and shoes and god only knows what else all over New York for a damn formal at NYU on Sat–“
Madison stopped him. “Take a breath, bro. I’m actually in town. The club I was supposed to play this weekend had to close. More than half the staff contracted food poisoning from their own chicken wings. Can you believe that?”
“What a relief!” Mason exclaimed. “I mean, wow! I mean– I hope everyone’s okay, but I’m really glad you’re in town. I can’t wait to hear more about that story, but for now… would you mind if I asked Erica to call you so that she can tell you what they need? She’s waiting for me to call her back.”
“Oh, sure. I’ll text you both when it’s done.”
“You are a lifesaver! Thanks, sis!”
After a quick call to Erica, Mason checked the fridge for something besides beer and quickly noted he would have to stop for soda on the way back from the club. He grabbed a glass from the dishwasher, checked to make sure it was clean, and opened the kitchen tap. The water came out of the faucet cool, almost warm, and definitely not cold enough to enjoy without ice, so he left a little room in the glass and opened the freezer. “No ice,” he observed aloud, laughing and irritated at the same time.
Mason stared down into the glass, hoping ice would materialize. When it didn’t, he ambled back to the couch with his semi-full, semi-cold beverage, sloshing from side to side in the glass. Junior used the same streaming service, at least, so he started a new series he’d been eager to watch to kill some time before he had to shower.
Madison’s group text to he and Erica came in just before the end credits for episode three. “Done. They have pizza, also. And eyeshadow palettes I was saving for their birthday. 🙂”
Mason shook his hood, “Eyeshadow. Just like their mama.” He typed back, “Already?! You da best! Thanks, Mads!” then headed to the bathroom for his shower.