by June Francis
‘And all for what?’ said Lenny softly. ‘I’ve been asking myself, how long before cinemas start closing down? On a winter’s evening will people prefer to sit at home watching television, rather than go out in the cold?’
‘I don’t believe it!’ exclaimed Dorothy, shocked, wondering why she had not thought of that. ‘Everyone loves a night out at the pictures or the theatre!’
‘Most just love being entertained and television can do that. It’s not going to happen overnight, of course,’ said Lenny thoughtfully. ‘But it’s on its way. People said that the talkies would never catch on but they proved to be the end of the silent movies.’
‘You’re frightening me!’ Dot put down her cup.
‘What’s there to be frightened of?’ he asked. ‘You only need to be ahead of the game or quit and settle down.’
She hugged herself. ‘I’m not ready to settle down. I’ve a few more years in me yet!’ She noticed he looked disappointed.
‘If that’s how you feel. Your face has already been seen on the telly, so all you’ve got to do is build up your presence and you could become a household name in no time.’ He reached across the table and took her hand. ‘When that happens, the theatrical impresarios and film producers will be beating a path to your door. No need for you to go to Hollywood, although you could possibly end up on Broadway. If that happens I’ll come with you. It would be worth my making the effort to see your name up in lights on the Great White Way.’
‘Would it, Lenny?’ she said wistfully. ‘I never thought I’d be able to winkle you out of your comfy nook here and accompany me abroad.’
‘I’ll do it for you, Dot. No one else! And when you’re ready to call it a day, you can share my cosy nook.’
‘You’re on!’ said Dorothy, planting a kiss on his lips.
She was surprised by the sense of joy she felt and began to laugh.
He joined in.
They were still laughing when Roberta came in with an order for two bacon butties.