Pharmaceutical Sitcom.
Published on
ACT 1, SCENE 1
The interior of a Chilean pharmacy of the national chain X. Looks like a small swanky supermarket, adorned with large panels ('30% off antivirals in june only!). Several clients browsing the shelves full of mainstream cosmetics. Five cashiers at the end of the shop.
Enters Piola, she picks up a numbered ticket close to the cashiers, sighs as she realises she's in for a long queue, and explores the make-up removers' section to while away.
Pharmacy assistant A: ...83?
A lady approaches cashier A to pay a pack of nappies, a chocolate ice-cream and cotton pads.
Pharmacy assistant D: 84? ... 85? 86?
An old man approaches cashier D with a scary list of prescriptions.
Pharmacy assistant B: 87? 88?
Piola approaches cashier B.
Piola: Hiya! Could you give me the price of the Soandso pill?
Pharmacy assistant B, typing on her computer: 10.450 pesos.
Piola: How about the two-month treatment?
Pharmacy assistant B: 13.800 pesos.
Piola: Great, then I'll get two months please!
Pharmacy assistant B: Would you like a bottle of mouthwash for only 1.490 pesos?
Piola: No thanks.
Pharmacy assistant B: We also have an astounding offer, 990 pesos for three packs of paracetamol!
Piola: No thanks.
Pharmacy assistant B: Would you like a moisturising body cream for only 1.290 pesos?
Piola: No.
Pharmacy assistant B: OK, so it will be 13.800 pesos. Do you have the pharmacy X loyalty card?
Piola: NO.
Pharmacy assistant B: Would you like to register to obtain the pharmacy X loyalty card?
Piola: No.
Pharmacy assistant B proceeds with the payment and puts the drugs in a plastic bag.
Piola: Thanks, I don't need a bag.
Pharmacy assistant B: Eh?
Piola: I prefer not to have a plastic bag.
Pharmacy assistant B, incredulous: But...?
Piola: It'd be wasted.
Pharmacy assistant B, with an imploring look that seems to say: 'But it's free!": Are you sure?
Piola: Yeah, I'll just put it in my handbag.
Pharmacy assistant B, between contempt and compassion: Ah.