PULP & POPCORN

Page 27
The biggest poster in the room was a huge four-sheet for Peter Fleming’s Citizen
Kane, written by, directed by, and starring himself. It was impressive, a reminder of just how
much he had accomplished already. By the time Felix made it all the way around the office, it
had become decidedly weird that neither of them had spoken, so Felix stopped
uncomfortably close to Fleming and smiled.
“Okay. I’m here. What?”
Fleming was amused by just how hard Felix was working to offend. He gestured to
the chairs in front of the desk. “Please. I’m getting ready to start the new film, and we’re
still trying to fill some big roles. I need a girl.”
“I don’t normally handle casting calls, but in this one case, I’ll make an exception.”
“You’re funny.”
“Thanks.”
“Not something I look for in an investigator.”
“You should consider it a bonus.”
“I brought you here because I’m looking for something and you were recommended
to me as a resourceful person.”
“Ooooh, good word. Who recommended me?”
Fleming shook his head. “No, I can’t tell you that. We should all try to keep our best
tricks a secret.”
“Mr. Fleming…”
“Please, call me Peter.”
“Okay, Peter. Call me Felix.”
“Felix, I am a man who appreciates it when people speak directly with me, and I
extend that same courtesy to others whenever possible.”