GIFT: Interview

Cedrick Drayton flashed his brilliant white teeth towards the television camera. "Welcome back viewers! We're continuing with the second part of our interview with Benito's own crew, Cino, Ugo and Razor. You may remember them being on our show a couple of weeks ago. Ready to hear what the audience responded to your last appearance?"

The host turned and presented a far-less-toothy smile to his guests. Cameras followed Cedrick's every move, and large monitors gave a colorful display of what the viewers at home were experiencing.

"We're waiting with bated breath," Ugo sarcastically piped back from across the room.

Cedrick laughed. "You may be cynical, but it appears the viewers aren't. Ugo, how are you doing over there? Things seem to be going well for you, aren't they? And the polls are pretty supportive of you and Cino."

Ugo's eyes widened. Caught off-guard, and he shifted his position on the sofa between Cino and Razor. "I'm doing all right, but what's this about a poll?"

"We conducted a poll on the our website asking everyone to predict if you two will or will not consummate your friendship."

Cedrick was on a roll. "We've all seen the chemistry between you and Cino. Some of the emails we've received are rooting for you guys... others aren't quite as supportive."

Cino frowned, tucking his black hair behind his ears in nervous irritation. He was now suddenly aware that his close friendship with Ugo might be cause for some... misunderstanding. Many have heard that he was not only his best friend but Ugo's roommate as well. But no Tom Tom would give second thought to share a room, due to common greediness. He doesn't mind sharing at all, but he can't help feeling disturbed by the response.

Without missing a beat Cedrick turned and was again talking to the cameras. "And Cino has received raves from our viewers for being the best friend and most desirable boyfriend--from women and men. We even received a poem devoted to those lovely red eyes of his." Cino covered his mouth, blushing but feeling flattered.

Cedrick continued. "Also, there's a lot of media buzz about Razor. Screenshots of him have become extremely popular downloads from our website."

Razor smiled and crossed his legs. "Sorry Cino," he teased his friend with a laugh, leaning back in the sofa. He stared into the camera with an exaggerated come-hither smile. "Screen-grab this, guys."

Cedrick grinned. "It's kind of a mixed bag, though, Razor. I'm afraid you're also the one that the audience most wants used as cat bait."

Ugo couldn't hold back a bark of laughter. Razor, however, pretended to be indignant. "That is so unfair," he said vehemently.

"Absolutely, but consider yourself lucky," Cino said, peering around at his other crew members. "Friends won't eat one of their own..."