You apologise sincerely to the old man, the audience and, after a brief hesitation, the turnip itself.
The theatre becomes very quiet.
At last, the old man gives a slow, understanding nod.
“That was professionally handled,” he says.
Several audience members murmur in agreement.
One man even applauds briefly before stopping himself.
The turnip remains firmly attached to your hands.
The old man gestures gently toward the little door beside the stage.
“They’ll explain the next part to you down there.”