Over Exposed

OVER EXPOSED

He opened the curtains not realising he'd forgotten to get dressed. Fortunately, for him it was pitch black out there. Gazing into the darkness he wondered how he would manage to get through the next few hours. He sensed the stillness of the evening yet grew aware of a lingering expectancy.

         Still ignorant of his nakedness he began to tremble. Not with cold, for his surroundings were warm, stifling even. No, such tremors he blamed on nerves and anxiety, his mental anguish so overpowering he could barely concentrate, never mind think about putting his clothes on.

         Pacing the floor like a captive panther he drew in deep breaths in an effort to calm his turbulent mind, very unsure he could face what lay ahead. Why had he agreed to do it? Only because he was so besotted with Hilary allowed him to be persuaded. It was all right for her; she was confident, extrovert and had plenty of experience. In fact, so involved was she in her own role in all this that he doubted she’d even noticed him. Wanting to impress her, he’d convinced himself he could make the required effort and prove to her what a strong character he could be. But now, standing here alone, consumed by fear and doubt, he knew he was going to fail miserably.

         “Oh please, give me the courage to get through this,” he whispered, raising his eyes to the Gods.

         He wondered if Hilary realised how much he'd hate this. If she had any idea of the panic he felt; the adrenalin flooding his system like oil spilling from a damaged tanker. Was she even aware of how terrified he felt at the prospect of being part of this strange family? What did he dread most? When he’d taken this on he hadn’t realised he’d be expected to dance with the mother; he’d always had two left feet and knew he would make a fool of himself. Neither was he looking forward to kissing her sister; her being so damned repulsive. Even the thought of winning over Hilary offered little comfort. It was only for tonight; tomorrow she’d move on to something new.

         Fish mouthing, he tried to remember what he was going to say but words deserted him. To top this he hated having to wear this ridiculous outfit. It was only then, as he went to adjust his clothing that he discovered his costume was still hanging in the dressing room. Sheer terror rooted him to the spot.

         At that precise moment he was caught in the full glare of the theatre's spotlights. Not an empty seat in the house and as all eyes gazed at the spectacle before them the air was filled with gasps, guffaws and wolf whistles.

         Such a unique beginning to the show ensured the audience were in a receptive mood and 'Cinderella' was a huge success. It also inadvertently aided him in his quest to snare Hilary, for following the performance she asked him out for a drink. Something about him had obviously attracted her attention; he doubted it was his acting ability.


         Their relationship is developing well, as are his amateur dramatic skills. In fact, his progress has been so rapid he has already been offered the star part in next year’s pantomime. Although he is flattered at the prospect of playing the lead in ‘The Emperors New Clothes’ he’s not sure he will accept. It would involve such a lot of responsibility and media exposure, he’s not sure he could bear it all.