“Plaid platypus, plaid platypus,” recited the students. Kohl looked around, shocked that these seemingly-normal people were willing to make idiots of themselves, just for a school play. Personally, he had a perfectly good reason to be here. Rosy managed to do the warm-up tongue-twisters with grace. Ms Tahki seemed delighted at the turnout.
“All right, actors!” she exclaimed. “I’m going to test your improv skills. You’re going to pick a partner, then you’ll go unscripted for me.
Of course, Kohl slid smoothly in beside Rosy. “Wouldja like to?” he said, smiling. She looked at him distastefully.
“I suppose.”
“Rosy? Will you mind going first?” called Ms Tahki.
“Sure,” she said. She turned to Kohl as everyone else fell silent.
“Well, here we are on the starship, Captain. How are you enjoying the view?”
“What?” said Kohl, suddenly conscious of the ink stain on his pants.
“Care for a kumquat? Doc said it helps with nerves.”
“Um…think I’m gonna abandon ship now, Admiral,” said Kohl.
And he walked away from Rosy.