Trimming the Fat
May 21st, 2020
Starring: The Butcher (male, early 50’s), Sonia (female, mid 40’s)
A local gym/community center. A line of treadmills. The Butcher, overweight, is jogging on one. It’s a struggle, heavy breathing and profuse “through the cotton t-shirt” sweating. He brings the treadmill down to a speed he can briskly walk on, holding onto the sides. Sonia, slim and in athletic wear, gets on the treadmill next to him, placing it on a warmup walking speed. The Butcher doesn’t really notice her. She notices him and takes out her earbuds.
SONIA
Excuse me
I’m sorry
But...you’re the butcher, right?
Martin Street corner?
THE BUTCHER
...
Yes—
SONIA
Long time customer!
THE BUTCHER
I’m sorry, I don’t recognize—
SONIA
Nonononono you’re fine you’re fine I don’t expect you to! It’s always so busy in there. We used to live around the corner but then we moved across town a few years ago. Needed a little more space for the kids.
THE BUTCHER
Right—
SONIA
Better schools out there too.
The Butcher nods, trying to focus on the treadmill.
I’m so sorry I never asked your name.
THE BUTCHER
It’s Aaron.
SONIA
Aaron, wow.
Sonia.
I can’t believe I never—
I used to be at your place all the time.
Every weekend I would come and get the uh...what was it—?
It had the turkey in the—
THE BUTCHER
Turkey rolls?
SONIA
Yes! God those were to die for.
I think about how many of those we ate over the years. We’re vegetarian now, mainly.
The kids—
The Butcher nods and slows down the treadmill even more, until it stops. He fully catches his breath.
THE BUTCHER
I apologize, I was just getting off.
SONIA
Nono you’re fine! Are you a member now?
THE BUTCHER
I’m doing the trial month.
SONIA
Oh, great. Well this place is great. Good for workouts, good equipment, everything.
They have trainers too at super reasonable rates.
THE BUTCHER
Thank you.
…
SONIA
But either way, I’ll see you around.
THE BUTCHER
See you.
The Butcher wipes his face with a towel and gets off the treadmill.
Sonia pops her earbuds back in and cranks up the speed. She sprints.