UNDISCOVERED COUNTRY

The TV, off, reflects their shadows, and the light from the open window, there a bright rectangle, is divided evenly into six panes. The air is stiff.  They sit waiting for word on how to proceed.  


"I'm right-brained," he says.


Her eyes narrow.  "What's that?  You're more creative?"


"They say if you want to save the environment you should only make right turns."


"Who says that?  Right turns saves the environment?"


"You spend less time idling.  Sitting at red lights.  Right turns; it's the way to go."


"I'm just saying, you should probably do more than just right turns."


"Yes, well, of course.  But yes, right-brained is the creative side.  My right side is the over-active side."


"I have a thyroid condition."


"Which one?  Hypo or hyper?"


"It's so hot in here.  When are they coming back?"


"Who?  Dieter and Paul?"


"Did you tell him we need more tonic?  Oh, and Tanqueray."


"You think Paul is gay?"


"Dieter's gay."


"Dieter yes, but Paul I think no."


"Hypo.  I have to take a little pill every morning.  Somehow I never forget.  So hot..."


He looks out the window.  


"They're coming."


"Can you turn on the radio?"


He reaches down and without looking turns on the radio.  The Clash--softly.  


"I love this song."


"I can't drink too much.  Stop me at two."


"I love a nice Gin and tonic."


"Me too; perfect for summer."


The hands on the clock spin.  There are voices in the hall.  The shadows on the wall cross and re-cross.  The window fills up with melting snow and sunlight and then rain again.  He stands looking out the window.  She sits listening to the music, her feet shifting to this beat and then that one.