FADE IN: INT. THE SUNSET ROOM - NIGHT The bar is long and narrow, like a gun barrel, or a tunnel, a pipe. The furnishings are all black, with black leather upholstery where applicable. The actual bar inside the bar is an island in the middle, with patrons on either side of the bartender. The dense crowd inside is sweating bullets. In the far back, behind the bar, there is the singular light source, lighting up the stage, straight down. On it a microphone on a stand. Smoke twirls inside the cone of light between the ceiling and the stage. The act in between acts comes on and starts playing. Just off to the side of the stage, Ray is approached by the Bald Man. BALD MAN Long time, sonny boy! RAY Have we met? Your name escapes me. BALD MAN Don't you remember me from last time? RAY Last time? (playing along) Oh yes, of course, it's you. How the hell've you been? The Bald Man says something, but it is abruptly drowned out by the music and the crowd simultaneously picking up in volume. RAY (raised) What? The Bald Man offers his hand, they shake. The Bald Man's hand is firm and steady, Ray's is pliant and tentative. The Bald Man doesn't let go, pulls in closer, and positions his lips near Ray's ear. BALD MAN (softly) I said, I knew you wouldn't forget me. RAY (beat) Of course not, how could I? BALD MAN Say, can I buy you a drink? I'd love to pick your brain. Ray notices the Bald Man's ear as they pull away from each other. RAY (short of breath) I'm not thirsty. BALD MAN I'm buying you a drink. Don't move. Before Ray can get in another word, the Bald Man vanishes. RAY Fuck. Ray shifts through the crowd as if crossing a ten-lane highway. It's impossible to get anywhere. Before long, the Bald Man is back. He takes Ray by the shoulder, revealing a knowing smile. BALD MAN Gotcha! Didn't I tell you not to move? RAY This has all been a big misunderstanding. Man, I don't even drink! BALD MAN Sure you do, don't play dumb with me. You might have everyone else here fooled, but I see you. We've had our eye on you, like you had yours on us. Now, let's find some place more quiet and sit down for a chat. I’ve got a friend. I’d like you two to meet. FADE OUT.
No posts