Phoenix
Part 72: Suspicious Glances
Elif slowly glides through the door, wearing that “something just occurred to me” smile.
ELIF (seemingly innocent):
“Albatross, I found something again… Do you think you could look at it with me?”
ALBATROSS (not taking his eyes off the papers):
“Five minutes, and I’ll be there.”
Phoenix watches from the background.
PHOENIX – INNER VOICE:
Of course. Five minutes, and she’ll already be hovering around him.
Elif steps a little closer, then stops next to Phoenix.
ELIF (with a half-smile):
“It’s a shame you’re not this… available.”
PHOENIX (forced smile):
“Anyone can come to me if they truly need me.”
Albatross looks up, glances at Phoenix.
ALBATROSS:
“That’s exactly why I came for you. Do you have a minute?”
Phoenix is surprised.
PHOENIX – INNER VOICE:
A minute? Now? In front of Elif? That’s… rare.
Elif shoots them a suspicious look.
ELIF:
“Oh… then I’ll just come back later.”
ALBATROSS (calmly):
“No need to go. I’m just borrowing Phoenix.”
Phoenix follows him toward the door.
PHOENIX (quietly):
“What happened?”
ALBATROSS (grimacing):
“If I stay in there with her for two more minutes, she’ll dump her entire system on me. Save me.”
Phoenix laughs.
PHOENIX – INNER VOICE:
God… not romantic, not dramatic… he just wants to be with me.
They reach the hallway.
PHOENIX (more boldly):
“So… you really came out because of me?”
ALBATROSS (looking at her):
“Of course. You’re the only one I don’t panic around.”
Phoenix lowers her gaze.
PHOENIX – INNER VOICE:
That’s… worse than a compliment. That’s the truth.
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