The telephone rings:
I answer, Hello!
The voice on the telephone says,
“Hi, it’s Kristine.”
“Did I wake you?”
No, I wasn’t sleeping.
“How are you?”
I’m fine.
“I’ve been dying to say something to you.”
“I should tell you this in person instead of on the phone.”
“I hope you don’t mind.”
Go ahead, I’m listening.
“I’ll come straight to the point, I love you.”
I beg your pardon!
“I said I love you.”
You love me!
I hope I’m not hearing you correctly.
“I’m not joking.”
Hmm, how should I respond?
This isn’t what I was expecting to hear.
“I know this is kind of sudden for you.”
Uh, I’m sorry, sweetheart.
I really don’t want to hurt your feelings,
But I don’t love you in a romantic way.
“You’re a lonely man and you need a wife.”
“I think I’m the perfect girl for you.”
Yes, I’m lonely and I need a wife,
But I never flirted with the notion of marrying you.
The way you feel about us is like a fairy tale.
“Sometimes dreams turn into reality.”
“Together we can make this fairy tale come true.”
Did you get this idea from a movie?
It’s not going to work.
Whatever you’re thinking, drop it now.
“Your poems give me the impression that you love me.”
Really!
Wait a moment:
Do you blame me for your misinterpretation?
That’s your assumption.
I asked you to read my poems and make critical comments,
But I wasn’t leading you on.
You called me repeatedly.
I answered my phone out of courtesy,
But I never called you back.
Didn’t you notice?
“I don’t believe the things you wrote are just fantasies.”
“Are you sure you feel nothing for me?”
Yes, I’m positive.
I’m not in love with you, Kristine.
If I were in love with you,
You wouldn’t have to ask me that question.
You’re a very nice girl,
But that’s beside the point.
“Will you at least think about what I’ve said?”
What else is there to consider?
I’ve already made my final decision.
And I refuse to start a titillating conversation with you.
I don’t mind you calling me,
But please limit your calls to a social chat.
If you can’t do that,
Don’t bother to call me.
“You sound a bit upset now.”
“Can we discuss the subject further some other time?”
Your persistency amazes me.
No, don’t waste your time.
Save your credit.
I just don’t love you.
Don’t you get it?
Good night, Kristine.