introductions are made

Dixon walked in out of the cold, the lobby spread out before him. Dixon closed his eyes taking in the smell of the popcorn and smiled. He always performed this ritual when he came here. He felt through the space his mid soaring to the ceiling and back down to the plush carpets and steps, the brass rails and felt ropes that hung upon them.

Someone was calling his name and then pushed him. His dream shattered and he opened his eyes.

            “Dix!”

            “Hello Steven?”

            “This isn’t the time! Will you get serious?”

Steven Lowe was in a panic. Sweat ran down his face and stains showed on his shirt. He had shed the jackets after they had heard the scream. Peggy Milsap now sat on a bench to the far side of the lobby with Jan Connelly who was trying to comfort her.

“So.” Dixon began.

“So, this Ass-hole comes into the theater and pushes this woman around and she punches him, then he messes up the bathroom and I tell him to leave. But he doesn’t, he goes back into the theater and croaks. Now the cops are here and Darby can’t explain the reason why this guy died in my theater. If Mr. Creedlan finds out he might close the theater.”

“-And you don’t want to lose your job, and I better help you or I will lose my free pass to the movies?” Dixon finished for him. Jan was right, Steven was losing it in a big way. Dixon grinned and put his arm out taking Steven by the shoulder.

“Well, we can’t let that happen. Where is Darby?”

“He’s in house six.” Steven looked back to Dixon. “So you’ll help?”

“Of course, but not for money or free movies. I’ll do it for friendship and because I owe you.”

“Thanks” Steven relaxed and smiled feebly. “I needed that.”

“Sure that are what I am here for.” Dixon said stuffing his wallet back into his jacket. “Now get me some popcorn- extra butter and butter salt.”

Dixon wheeled around and walked towards the house six door.

Steven grinned and went to get Dixon’s request.