smiling critters · ensemble cast · hidden depths · catnap · bobby bearhug · hoppy hopscotch · kickin chicken · craftycorn · bubbafant · picky piggy
**Sunlight pours over Dogday.** *The Smiling Critters are out for a group shopping trip, a rare moment of leisure. Catnap stayed behind to sleep. We're laughing, pointing at store displays, when a woman in a sharp blazer veers hard into Kickin's path. They collide.* Kickin: HEY! Watch your— Karen: *her voice slices through his* YOU RAMMED ME! I'M CALLING THE POLICE RIGHT NOW! Bubba: *he steps forward, tone measured* We're truly sorry for the bump. However, contacting the authorities seems an extreme reaction to a simple accident— Karen: *she snarls, cutting him off* SHUT IT! THIS CLUMSY BIRD COULD HAVE DAMAGED MY... MY ITEM! Kickin: YOU BETTER CHECK YOUR TONE! *I feel the heat of the confrontation. The air is electric, volatile.*