Stealing Bradford

10

“I THINK IT’S LOVELY THAT you girls are having movie night tonight,” said Mrs. Carter as they were finishing dinner.

“Would you like to join us?” offered Eliza.

“Thank you, dear, but I will pass.” Mrs. Carter got a somewhat dreamy expression now. “I saw South Pacific on Broadway back in the fifties. Mary Martin was unforgettable.”

“Who’s Mary Martin?” asked DJ.

“One of the most talented actresses ever to grace Broadway. She starred as the nurse in the musical, and, oh my, did she have a set of lungs.”

“But she didn’t want to be in the movie?” asked Eliza.

“She was probably considered too old for the role by the time the movie released.” Mrs. Carter sighed. “Careers were cut shorter back in those days. Actresses and models were considered over the hill by forty.” She pushed back her chair in a weary sort of way. “If you ladies will excuse me, I think I will make an early night of it.”

They told her good night and then the table was quiet.

“How old is she anyway?” Taylor directed this to DJ. “Your grandmother, I mean.”

DJ shrugged. “I don’t really know, but I think she’s in her seventies.”

“Is she in good health?” persisted Taylor.

“What do you mean?” asked DJ. “Like is she about to keel over from old age? I don’t think so.”

“What time does the movie start?” asked Kriti.

“Seven thirty,” said Eliza.

“Anyone want to sneak in treats?” asked DJ quietly, in case her grandmother was still nearby. “We could phone in pizza.”

“All right,” said Casey. “I already had thirds on that eggplant casserole, and I’m still starving.”

“Do you girls know how many calories are in one slice of pepperoni pizza?” Eliza asked.

“No, but I’m sure you do,” said DJ. Then she pointed out that she and Casey both burned off a lot of calories during volleyball practice today.

“That reminds me,” said Eliza. “When is Mrs. Carter going to get the workout room up and running?”

“Workout room?” asked DJ.

“Yes. She promised to set up some equipment in the basement.”

“Well, maybe you should remind her,” said DJ. “So, back to pizza, looks like just Casey and I are having something delivered, right?”

“Count me in,” said Taylor unexpectedly.

“Me too,” said Kriti. “For one piece anyway.”

“Oh, fine,” said Eliza. “Just corrupt the whole lot of us. But if Mrs. Carter finds out, you take the heat, DJ.”

DJ laughed. “No problem.”

So it was arranged that they’d meet back in the living room in about an hour, and DJ would handle the pizza order. Rhiannon was the first one to leave the table, and it seemed obvious that she was not feeling her usual cheerful self.

“Poor Rhiannon,” said Eliza.

“What’s wrong with her?” asked Kriti.

“Bradford broke up with her today,” said DJ.

“Thanks to Taylor,” added Eliza.

“Here we go again,” said Taylor. “Blame it all on me.”

“Who should we blame?” asked Casey.

Taylor stood now. “Whatever.”

“Well, you know what they say, Taylor,” said Eliza.

“Probably,” said Taylor as she began to leave the room.

“What goes around comes around.”

Taylor didn’t respond, just kept on walking.

“I feel sorry for Rhiannon,” said Kriti. “Can you imagine how it must feel to share a room with Taylor?”

DJ hadn’t really considered this. But it did seem a lot to expect of anyone, even a saintly person like Rhiannon. “Maybe someone should switch.”

“Not me,” said Kriti.

“Or me,” added Eliza.

“No way,” said Casey. “I’d probably have to kill Taylor in her sleep if we were roommates.”

“Maybe you should switch with Rhiannon, DJ,” said Eliza. “Taylor actually seems to like you…well, sometimes.”

“No, thank you,” said DJ.

Then they went their separate ways. But DJ felt guilty as she went to her room to knock off some homework. Maybe she should offer to switch with Rhiannon. Or perhaps this whole thing would simply blow over. She hoped so.

It was nearly seven thirty when DJ phoned in the pizza order and went downstairs to see if they were ready to see the rest of South Pacific.

“We’re trying to decide whether to start it at the beginning again,” said Eliza. She had the remote and seemed to be calling the shots.

“Is someone at the door?” asked Kriti.

“Probably pizza,” said DJ, although that seemed way too fast. She hurried to get to it before Inez, since she wasn’t sure if she could trust the housekeeper not to inform on her. But when she reached the door, it wasn’t pizza. It was Bradford, with Harry and Conner behind him.

“What are you guys doing here?” asked DJ in a less than welcoming tone.

“We’re invited to a movie.” Conner stepped forward with a disarming smile. “Are you sending us away?”

“No.” She opened the door wider. “Of course, not. Come on in. It’s just that I didn’t know we were having guests.” She eyed Bradford with suspicion. This had to be Taylor’s doing. She’d probably assumed if Bradford came with Harry and Conner, it would be acceptable. But how was this going to make Rhiannon feel? And should DJ warn her?

“The living room is this way,” she said as she led them through the foyer. “Maybe we should’ve ordered more pizza.”

“Pizza!” Conner smacked his lips.

“Hey, guys,” called out Eliza. “You’re just in time.”

“I’m going to phone in more pizza,” said DJ. She nodded to Conner now. “Make yourself at home.” Then she glanced over at Rhiannon, who looked uncomfortable, as if she’d been trapped. “Hey, Rhiannon,” called DJ. “I need a hand in the kitchen, okay?”

Rhiannon looked relieved to get out of there, and DJ walked ahead and led her through the dining room into the kitchen. At least it would be private. “I’m sure this is Taylor’s doing,” she said. “I can’t imagine what she’s up to.”

“It doesn’t really matter,” said Rhiannon sadly.

“Yes, it does,” insisted DJ. “It’s just plain mean.”

Rhiannon took in a choppy breath. “I’m trying to be mature about this. Really, I am. But it’s hard. And Taylor isn’t helping much either.”

“Of course, it’s hard. Taylor is the most selfish person I’ve ever met. And I feel so bad that you’re stuck rooming with her.”

“It is pretty awkward.”

“Look, Rhiannon. If you want to switch, I will. You can room with Casey. You guys get along okay, don’t you?”

“You don’t have to—”

“No,” she insisted. “I think I do.”

Rhiannon hugged her now. “Thank you, DJ. You really are a good friend.”

“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?”

Rhiannon looked uncomfortable. “Yes, it’s kind of embarrassing to say it out loud, but I’ve imagined her being publicly humiliated, and I’ve even wished that the mean girls would get her cornered behind the gym and really let her have it.”

“No way!” Rhiannon nodded. “Yeah. I’m a Christian, but I’m not perfect.”

“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 Rhiannon for taking her faith this seriously? Besides, DJ reminded herself, Rhiannon had a pretty easy-going sort of temperament. DJ had noticed that last year when she’d seen Rhiannon interacting with her mom. At times, DJ had wished that Rhiannon would stand up to her mom and tell the stupid woman off. But Rhiannon never had. At least not when DJ was there to witness it. Still, it seemed nothing short of saintliness that Rhiannon hadn’t torn into Taylor yet. DJ felt certain she wouldn’t do half as well in the same situation. And she couldn’t believe she’d just offered to become Taylor’s roommate. Had she lost her mind?

“In light of our unexpected visitors, I think I’ll skip the movie tonight,” said Rhiannon. Then she brightened slightly. “In fact, maybe I’ll use the time to switch some things into your room while everyone is down there. If you don’t mind?”

“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 Rhiannon.

“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?” Rhiannon shook her head. “No. I doubt anyone will notice anyway.”

“I’ll notice.”

“Thanks.”

But when DJ returned to the living room, where they’d all decided to watch the movie from the beginning since half of them hadn’t seen it yet, it seemed that Rhiannon was right. They didn’t seem to notice that she was missing. Conner had saved DJ a space beside him, and Harry and Eliza were already in the loveseat. For some reason DJ felt relieved to see that Taylor and Bradford weren’t sitting together. Of course, she figured that might change before the night was over. But at least Rhiannon wouldn’t be around to witness it if it did. She wondered how Taylor would react to swapping roommates.

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. Conner helped DJ bring the order in, but when they got back, Taylor and Bradford had taken their spot and were now sitting together on the couch. As she set the food items on the oversized coffee table, DJ tossed Taylor a glance, which Taylor ignored. Then she and Conner made themselves comfortable on the big floor cushions.

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 innocent,” teased Eliza.

“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 grinned and slipped his arm around Taylor now. “Yeah, I’ll be Joe Cable, and you can be my Polynesian baby.”

“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,” announced DJ when she noticed the clock. “But we’re supposed to vacate this room by ten on school nights.”

“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 Conner as they went down into the yard for what she suspected would be a more private good night.

“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 planned to stay out there all night, but DJ did not. She went into the house and closed the door. She wished she’d thought to ask Conner who’d invited them here tonight, but she felt pretty certain it was Taylor’s doing. Just one more subtle way to ensure that she was stealing Bradford from Rhiannon. Well, at least Rhiannon didn’t have to sit down there and witness the whole thing herself. That’s probably what Taylor had intended.

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 Rhiannon, but surely there could be a better way. Perhaps DJ could sleep in the library. She could sneak a sleeping bag down there, tuck it behind the couch during the day and—

“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 Rhiannon.”

“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 Rhiannon got you pretty much moved.”

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

Rhiannon was sitting on what had been DJ’s bed. And Casey was sitting across from her. It looked as if they’d been in the midst of a serious conversation. “Sorry to interrupt,” she said uncomfortably. “I just wanted to see if there was anything else to move.” She glanced around at what had been her old room. First hers alone…then hers and Casey’s. Already it felt different.

“I think I got it all, but feel free to look around,” said Rhiannon. “Casey showed me what was yours in the bathroom. We just took the last of it over.”

DJ walked around and looked, but it did seem that every trace of her had been removed from the room. “You okay with this, Casey?” she asked. “We didn’t have a chance to warn you.”

“Yeah, it’s fine. You snore anyway, DJ.”

“I do not.”

“You do too. Sometimes anyway.” Casey actually smiled now. “I think it was nice of you to do the switcheroo. Hopefully Taylor won’t put a hex on you in your sleep.”

“Yeah, thanks.”

“You going to be okay?” asked Rhiannon with concern.

DJ forced a smile. “I’m fine.”

“I’ll be praying for you,” promised Rhiannon.

“Thanks. Maybe you have a crucifix you can loan me…”

“Huh?” Rhiannon looked confused.

DJ made a cross out of her two forefingers, as if warding off a vampire or evil spirit. “You know, to keep the devil girl at bay.”

“Just scream if you need help,” said Casey. “We’ll rescue you.”

“Thanks.” Then DJ told them good night and—feeling like she was going to meet her executioner—walked into what still felt like Taylor’s room.

“Ever heard of knocking?” asked Taylor, who was sitting in the window seat and just lighting up a cigarette.

“Do you knock before you come into your own room?” demanded DJ.

Taylor shrugged then blew out a long puff of blue smoke.

“Open a window, would you?” said DJ irately.

“Afraid of a little second-hand smoke, are we?” But at least she cranked open the window behind her.

“If you had any sense you would be too. And don’t forget the rules, Taylor.”

“Glad you could make it home tonight, roomie.” Taylor was using a phony-sounding cheerful tone. “Although it’s past curfew—not that you’d forget the rules.”

DJ looked around the room and sighed. Her new home. Whoopee. She checked her side of the closet and some drawers.

“Everything in its place?”

DJ ignored Taylor as she took out her faded pajama bottoms and a tank top, her usual sleeping gear. At least Rhiannon had done a nice job of putting her things away for her. But then these rooms were outfitted fairly much the same, so she’d probably just emptied one drawer into another. Still, it was thoughtful. But then again that was Rhiannon—thoughtful.

“You’re not much fun tonight,” said Taylor. “Here I was all excited about my new roomie, and you’re acting like your grumpy old self again.”

“Look,” said DJ. She was fed up with Taylor’s endless teasing and game-playing. “It’s not like I’m thrilled to be your roommate, Taylor. But we might as well try to make the best of it.”

“Hey, that’s what I’ve been trying to do. You’re the one who keeps acting all snotty and mean to me, like you’re so much better than I am. Miss Superiority Complex.”

“Like you should talk.”

“What exactly is your problem anyway?” demanded Taylor. She snuffed out her cigarette and then stood up, putting both hands on her hips and just staring. “It’s like you’re always in a snit about something or other. Don’t you know how to let things go?”

“Not when I’m still ticked at you for stealing Bradford from Rhiannon.”

“Here we go with that stupid stealing Bradford theory again. First of all, just how does one steal a boyfriend anyway? Is that even possible? You make it sound like Bradford is some helpless victim. Don’t you think he has a choice in this? All I’ve done is be myself. I can’t help it if Bradford likes me. Can’t you get over it, DJ?”

“No, I can’t.” She shook her finger at Taylor. “Speaking of victims, tell me, Taylor, why is it okay for you to act like you’re this helpless femme fatale, and you can’t help that anything in pants falls head over heels in love with you.”

Taylor laughed, but it was a cold, harsh laugh. “Is that what you think I do?”

“You’ve said as much.”

“Yeah, right!”

“Okay then, what was up with you inviting Bradford to the movie? Then you don’t even tell anyone. And Rhiannon is so crushed when she sees him that she can’t even watch the movie. Tell me that wasn’t some really tasteless, cruel joke.”

“Me?” Taylor looked honestly indignant now. “You’re accusing me of inviting Bradford tonight?” She really was an excellent actress, and she probably would end up getting the lead part in the musical.

“Are you saying you didn’t invite Bradford? Or that you didn’t include Harry and Conner to create a little smoke screen?”

“That’s what I’m saying.”

“You honestly expect me to believe it?”

“Frankly, my dear, I don’t give a rip whether you believe me or not.” Taylor started getting ready for bed. “I’ve had more than enough of you for one night, DJ. If this is any indicator of what rooming with you is going to be like, I might just beg Rhiannon to come back.”

“Like she even would.”

“She probably would.” Taylor glared at DJ. “Because even though Rhiannon is totally naïve, at least she’s nice. Unlike some people who go around falsely accusing others and acting like they’re so superior.”

“Taylor,” demanded DJ, “who else would’ve invited Bradford?”

“I thought maybe you did.” Taylor turned her back now, removed her shirt and her bra, and slipped on a silky pink nightshirt.

“Yeah, right.”

“Maybe Rhiannon did?” Taylor still had her back to DJ as she put her clothes away.

“Get real.”

“Then it had to be Eliza, because it wasn’t me.”

“You swear you didn’t invite Bradford?”

Taylor turned around and narrowed her eyes at DJ now. “If I want to swear, I’ll swear until the cows come home. But I’m not going to let you push me around, DJ. If you want to blame me, fine. I really don’t give a rip.” Then Taylor stomped off into the bathroom and slammed the door.

DJ knew she should just let it go, but she couldn’t stand the idea of Taylor messing with people and then lying and expecting to get away with it. It just wasn’t fair. There seemed one easy way to settle this. She went to Eliza’s room and tapped on the door. To her surprise, it was already dark.

“Sorry,” she said as she poked her head in.

Eliza turned on the bedside lamp and sat up. “It sounds like World War III out there. What is going on anyway?”

“I need to know something,” DJ whispered. “Rhiannon and I switched rooms. And Taylor and I are already having a great big fight. She totally denies inviting Bradford here tonight. I know that I didn’t. And Rhiannon sure didn’t. And neither did Casey. I figured if I talked to you guys, I could nail her and—”

“Taylor didn’t invite Bradford,” said Eliza.

“She didn’t?”

“No…I did.”

DJ frowned. “Why?”

“Oh, I had this half-baked idea of trying to get Rhiannon and Bradford back together. I talked to him after drama and told him how brokenhearted she was, and he actually seemed to care. I invited him here just so he could at least be nice to her, maybe cheer her up. And then she runs off and disappears.”

“And he cozies up with Taylor.”

“Yeah, it kind of backfired on me.”

“Are you guys about done?” demanded Kriti in a cranky voice. “Some of us would like to get some sleep around here.”

“Good night,” said DJ, quietly closing the door behind her.

She stood in the hallway for a few minutes trying to wrap her head around this little dilemma. Wasn’t this just perfect? Her first night rooming with Taylor and she’d falsely accused her. Did this mean she had to apologize now? That just seemed so wrong.