Someone (Cardboard) To Watch Over Me
Originally posted on September 3, 2007. Photos and story by Clara in OR.
Eli: Hey, what are you doing there?
Cassandra: Oh, not much. Just waiting for you. *hastily puts notes out of sight*
Eli: Uh-huh.. Looked to me like you were reading your research notes again.
Cassandra: (sits silently, not looking at Eli.)
Eli: That is what you were doing, isn't it? Come on Tiny, what's up? I thought we were past the point of that kind of research. Don't you think things are going pretty great between us?
Cassandra: Yes, I do. *tiny catch in her voice* They're just wonderful. *bursts into tears*
Eli: Whoa! Geez, Cassandra. Not exactly the reaction I expect when things are going well.
Cassandra: Damn it! This isn't right… I'm not like this… I told myself I wouldn't….
Eli: Ok, Cassandra. Just start at the beginning and tell me what's going on. You're confusing the hell out of me here.
Cassandra: Oh Eli, this has been the best summer of my life. And it's almost over….
Eli: Cassandra, is this about my leaving soon?
Cassandra: *softly* Yes.
Eli: And the research notes fit in there how?
Cassandra: (doesn't answer, but Eli can hear quiet sniffling.)
Eli: Tiny, come on now.
Eli: You know the stuff we need to know about you and me isn't in your notes. It's all in here (touches her heart) …and in here (touches his heart). We knew this was going to be tough going in since we live so far apart. But I still think we have what it takes to make it work - don't you?
Cassandra: Yes, I know, I know. I'm sorry, Eli. I really didn't want to do this. I'm just going to miss you so much.
Eli: Not any more than I'm going to miss you. But we can call every day and I'll send pictures sometimes like I used to. Only this time you're going to have to send me pictures too. And....I'll even leave Cardboard Guy here to keep you company. I know he’s not nearly as fun to smooch, but…..
Cassandra: How do you know he isn't? Have you been kissing him?
Eli: Cute, Cassandra. Hey, don't forget we have our trip to the convention coming up. Now, if you were just a tad tinier, Tiny, I could stow you away in my carryon, and we’d save a bundle on airfare. I'd even let you out to stretch your legs, although you're not getting my peanuts.
Cassandra: *laughing a little* You're just too good to me, Eli.
Eli: I am? I thought it was the other way around....
Eli: Now c'mere. I'm thinkin' you might need a little more proof that I have it all over Cardboard Dude....
