I'LL DRAW THREE FIGURES ON YOUR HEART

dialogue prompts from “cat person” and other stories by kristen roupenian.

you’re like a sad little dog, hungry for friendliness and praise.

it’s fine, but god, stop lying about it. please.

i like the original better.

who are you? why are you talking to me?

i feel like there’s an entire planet on top of me, holding me down.

are you trying to scare me?

i didn’t mean to scare you. i promise.

how are you doing with all this, honey?

i wished for something mean.

you make a lot of mistakes, but you’re still a good ___.

your problem is you’re too serious.

so you have your troubles. that means a person can’t laugh?

i just think you could be a little more sympathetic.

school didn’t teach me anything i needed to know.

i feel scared and humiliated and helpless, and i’m tired of feeling that way.

i came here to help you.

brave girl, transmuting terror into laughter.

you always have a story to tell.

i’m trying to be better than i am.

of course i forgive you. there’s nothing to forgive.

you’re only making everything worse.

i’m trying so hard to be good.

you managed not to insult me this time.

why are you texting all the time? are you having an affair?

don’t worry. i’m not going to murder you.

i’m sorry i laughed.

i should’ve trusted you.

you could’ve asked me about that, if you were worried.

how old are you, exactly?

i’m not the problem. i’m just the tool you’re using to hurt yourself.

it’s always been you. this whole time.

tell me what you’re thinking.

it’s weird, but i just had the feeling that something was wrong.

i just don’t know who i am anymore.

you’re sweet. i liked falling asleep with you.

i can’t believe i spent so much time in love with you.

i knew the world was more interesting than it was pretending to be.

i think you should consult someone more qualified than webmd.

do me a favor, okay? stop trying to help. you’re only making things worse.

people who love each other take care of each other.