“The dog ate my homework! ”
She has proof, and shows me.
I hold it up and let my eyes
Trace the ragged edge—tooth marks,
Maybe K-9.... not my area of study.

Looking past the paper, her face
A backdrop, a rear curtain, but
An essential part of the show.

Lower spot. Close-up: eyes.

She bats them just enough.
(The make-up girl did a good job.)
Round face, big eyes-brown (not blue) brown is better with
Naturally yellow locks.
Small mouth, lips perfectly pouted.
Pink innocence—an eight-year-old in a college body.

Action

“Can I turn it in Tuesday? ”
She clasps her palms in prayer fashion.
“Please, oh, please, oh please! ” She begs,
And throws in a little lip-biting angst.

Direction: Flip frown. Go from pout to perk, and
A little cheesecake, girl.

The eye lashes go to work.
“I promise to feed Roxie something else next time.”

Cue Laugh card.

I hate her. Damn it!
“The fucking dog ate your fucking homework?
Are you insane! ? ”

Dim lights. Soft fade to amber
Lose smile. Use begging face number 7A.

I forget my lines.
“Oh, what the hell! ” Look serious.
“…but by Tuesday for sure. Ok? .”

Tiptoes and a single, ear-cracking squeal.
“You’re the best! ”

Exit to hallway. Two girls laughing.
Fade.

Ross Lakes

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/the-dog-ate-my-homework/