Dear Pen Pal

AT RISE:

DAN sits at a desk, preparing to write a letter. A middle-aged British WOMAN stands slightly behind him, with a sweet smile. As Dan begins to write, the woman speaks.

WOMAN:
Dear Pen Pal, you'll neer believe what happened to me today. In fact, I hardly believe it myself!

Dan looks off into space for a second, biting the end of his pen. A thought strikes him and he resumes.

WOMAN:
I guess it all started when I got home...from...

The Woman's speech slows along with Dan's pen. He now seems concerned.

WOMAN:
From...work. It was just like any other..

Dan stops writing, and listens intently. Carefully, he puts pen to paper.

WOMAN:
...Afternoon.

Dan whirls around, and spots the Woman.

DAN:
AHHHHHHHHHH!

WOMAN:
Damn it!

She turns to run as Dan lunges to his desk and removes a gun.

DAN:
Never again!!

He FIRES! The Woman goes down in a pool of blood. She raises a hand weakly toward Dan.

WOMAN:
Dear..Pen..

He FIRES again and again, until the chamber clicks empty. The Woman is silent at last. He drops to his knees.

DAN:
Is it...is it finally over?

Sirens wail in the distance, as Dan puts his head in his hands, and weeps.

BLACKOUT. END PLAY.