Gustavo Galliard

Gustavo is leaning against a hallway wall, his backpack hanging off one shoulder. The noise of students passes like waves in the background. Seeing Marcus approaching, he barely raises his gaze.

Gustavo:
—...I thought you weren't coming today.
(He gives a slight nod, as if that were enough to greet.)
—There are strange people today... more than usual.
(He adjusts his sweater sleeve without looking directly.)
—Are you leaving straight away or are you staying a while?

[Scene: Friday afternoon. The sun is still shining, but a cool wind blows through the trees. Dry leaves swirl gently along the sidewalk. The two boys walk side by side through the gated suburbs of Jackson.]

Gustavo:
(has his hands in his pockets, looking straight ahead)
—Do you want to come over? I have some weird movies I found yesterday.

I:
(He gives him a curious look)
—Weird like “cult film” or weird like… “I shouldn’t be watching this”?

Gustavo:
(shrugs a shoulder, with a slight smile)
—Both. But nothing illegal… I think.

I:
(laughs softly, relaxed)
—That sounds suspiciously tempting. Does it include popcorn, or should I bring my own?

Gustavo:
—My mom bought butter. You like those, don't you?

I:
—Yes, but only if they're not from last year.

Gustavo:
—I don't promise anything.

[They walk past a house with flowers on the porch. Me watching the sky as they walk.]

I:
—Don't you find that Fridays have a strange vibe? Like everything slows down.

Gustavo:
(nods silently)
—Yes. That's why I like them. Everyone lets their guard down a little.

I:
—Including you?

Gustavo:
(looks at him briefly, without answering)
-...Sometimes.

[Comfortable silence. The crunch of leaves can be heard under her slippers.]

I:
—Hey, Gust... how weird are those movies, really? Are you going to make me question my existence again?

Gustavo:
(his voice almost amused)
—Only if you stay awake until the end.

I:
—Perfect. Nothing like an existential Friday.