Stealing Bradford

Rhia

“I’m trying to be a good Christian too,” admitted DJ. “But sometimes, like when I get mad at Taylor, I sort of forget.”

“Yeah, I have to admit that I’ve entertained a few fantasies myself.”

DJ tried not to look shocked. “Really?”

Rhia

“No way!” Rhia

“Well, that’s kind of a relief.”

“Even so, I’d like to handle this right. I’ve been praying for God to help me.”

“Right.” DJ pressed her lips together. How could she fault Rhia

“In light of our unexpected visitors, I think I’ll skip the movie tonight,” said Rhia

“Sure,” said DJ, although the idea of them doing the switch tonight had not occurred to her.

“Do you want me to move anything for you while I’m at it?” she asked.

“Sure, if you want. I suppose you’ll need some drawer and closet space for your things. Go ahead and do some switching if you want. Then maybe we can tackle the rest of it during the weekend.”

“I’m sure Taylor will be glad to get rid of me,” said Rhia

“Only because she’s crazy.”

“Thanks again. I really appreciate it.”

“I think I hear Eliza calling. I better phone in for some more pizza,” she said. “Want me to make any excuses for you not being there for the movie?” Rhia

“I’ll notice.”

“Thanks.”

But when DJ returned to the living room, where they’d all decided to watch the movie from the begi

About thirty minutes into the movie, the pizzas arrived. DJ had asked them to hold her earlier order and deliver them both together, along with a selection of sodas. Fortunately, Eliza offered to cover the bill, and Taylor, probably just wanting attention, threw in a pretty generous tip. Co

The movie was actually pretty good in a corny, old-fashioned sort of way. One of the underlying themes had to do with prejudice, and DJ was surprised that a goofy musical made fifty years ago would contain such a strong statement.

“Don’t you guys think that Taylor should play Liat?” suggested Bradford.

“You mean because she’s so sweet and i

“No, he means because my skin is dark like hers,” said Taylor.

“So is Bloody Mary’s,” said DJ. “Maybe Taylor should play her…or would that be considered typecasting?”

Taylor gave DJ a withering look. And DJ suddenly remembered she’d be sharing this girl’s room tonight. “Just kidding,” said DJ quickly. “Actually, Taylor does look a little bit like Liat.”

“Why thank you,” said Taylor.

“I think Eliza should play Nellie,” said Harry fondly. “Wouldn’t she be perfect?”

“That depends on whether she can sing or not,” said Taylor in a slightly snooty tone. She peered at Eliza. “Can you?” Eliza gave her a coy look then shrugged. “I guess we’ll have to wait and see.”

“Bradford can sing,” said Harry. “Maybe he can play the Lieutenant.” Bradford gri

“And by the end of the show, you’ll be dead,” she said as she stood up.

He made a sad face. “But you’ll be crying for me.”

“When are auditions anyway?” asked Harry.

“Next week.”

“Sorry to end the party,” a

“Not that Mrs. Carter would notice,” said Taylor with a yawn. “But I’m sleepy anyway.” That seemed to break it up. Eliza and DJ saw the guys to the door, but DJ could tell that Bradford was disappointed when Taylor didn’t do the same.

“Thanks for everything,” said Co

“Thanks for coming,” said DJ.

Then he leaned down and kissed her. “See ya tomorrow.”

“See ya.” She stepped away from him and went back on the porch and waved. Eliza and Harry were still standing by the Jeep. Maybe Eliza pla

Then, as DJ went up the stairs, she remembered that starting tonight she was Taylor’s new roommate. Oh, what had she been thinking? Of course, she’d felt sorry for Rhia

“DJ,” Taylor was leaning over the railing on of the landing, “I hear that you’re my new roomie.”

DJ rolled her eyes. “Yeah, so?”

“Oh, don’t get so excited,” said Taylor. “I’m only doing this for Rhia

“Whatever you say.” Taylor didn’t seem convinced.

“I am. It seemed totally unfair for her to be stuck with you after all you’ve done to her.”

“All I’ve done to her?” Taylor shook her head. “Like I’m the Wicked Witch of the West. Whatever.”

Out of habit, DJ started to go into her own room.

“Oops,” said Taylor. “Wrong room.”

“I need to get some things.”

“You sure?” asked Taylor. “Looked to me like Rhia

“Maybe I just want to check and make sure,” said DJ. This time she knocked first and then went in.

Rhia

“I think I got it all, but feel free to look around,” said Rhia