Kevin's Choice (Act 1)

Preface:

Even though Kevin Valor is a homosexual, he is generally accepted in society (since he is athletic and acts straight) yet is trying to get over his abusive ex boyfriend. When this is accomplished, Kevin starts dating others, which leads to jealousy, betrayal, and lies. The rumors get so out of hand that death threats are made toward Kevin. When that compromises his safety, he is forced to make a choice: either tell his parents about the threats, therefore moving away...or continue living life as if nothing will happen, however leaving his family ignorant to the potential danger surrounding them. In an intense story about letting go of the past and doing what is right, Kevin Valor not only finds his true self and worth, but also develops a stronger perception of society.








CHARACTERS (In order of appearance)

KEVIN VALOR
MRS. VALOR
AVERY GRACE
MRS. WHITMAN
GRETCHEN ZIMMERMAN
ANTHONY CATANEO
GARRET JONES
MADISON “MADDIE” TAYLOR
NIA ALVAREZ
RAMIELLE KIMURA
TANNER THOMAS
TEACHER
CHAUNCEY JAMES JOHNSON
ASHLEIGH CONROY
MRS. FLOWERS
SHARINA
ROB
NICO
COACH IAN
COACH JAY
DESMOND
BRETT SCHULZ
HOODLUM #1
HOODLUM #2
HOODLUM #3
RANDOM WOMAN
OLD MAN
CEDRIC
RIDE OPERATOR
FOOTBALL COACH




Act 1 Scene 1

(SETTING: The Valor family household. It is a two-story Dutch Colonial, a style contrary to the southern Floridian suburb in which they live. This scene takes place upstairs. )

(Opening credits begin. Focus is on an ALARM CLOCK. The time goes from 6:29 to 6:30 in the morning and the radio goes off loudly. The song “I Can Transform Ya” by Chris Brown plays - specifically at his part of the song.

KEVIN lethargically climbs out of bed. He is an attractive young man with short brown hair, a Caucasian’s tan, and his boxers reveal a round bottom. In the front of his boxers, his private area protrudes curiously, clearly revealing that not only is he packing - as most would describe it - but reveals why he is sexually desirable to others. His legs are exceptionally large and muscular, suggesting he is athletic. The upper half of his body is sinewy, but more on the skinny side. He does not have a six pack. It is quite obvious that there is a bruise on his left arm. He goes to his closet to pick out his jeans. He also picks out a blue Aeropostale t-shirt, then goes to his drawers to pick out black boxers.

He tiredly walks out of his room, down the hall, and into left doorway of the bathroom. He leaves the door open (so he can hear the music) and places his clothes on the counter. He turns the shower on. He strips off his boxers and jumps into the shower. There is a full view of him naked, shamelessly, indicating that future events that are presented will be realistic with everything. The image of KEVIN naked highlights how an imperfect body is still beautiful. The bruise on his arm is still very apparent as he showers. The camera shows shots of him washing his body in all areas - the idea here is that everything about the body is beautiful. Since it is a movie, the scene shifts to him getting out of the shower.

The song "Don't Wanna Fight" by Qwote plays next. The camera shows what KEVIN looks like in the mirror - from his point of view. After drying himself with a white towel, he applies deodorant. He puts on his boxers and starts dancing to the song. He puts on his jeans, and then his shirt. He's still dancing. He reaches for the gel, but hesitates upon realizing that the bruise is obvious. It is a sick shade of purple and black as if diseased. That’s when he takes the shirt off and runs out of the bathroom. He returns with a long-sleeve shirt. It is striped horizontally in maroon and white. Gray Aeropostale logo goes down the right side of it vertically. The shirt fits tight perfectly. He gels his hair down and spikes it up in the front. He washes his hands and brushes his teeth. After rinsing the toothbrush, he starts singing to the song. And then, he applies Aeropostale Maximum cologne. He looks at himself in the mirror with a satisfied expression. He takes a mobile picture of himself and sends it to Brett Schulz. The camera follows him back to his room, where he grabs his red binder and laced bag. The credits and music stop here.)




Act 1 Scene 2

(SETTING: The Valor family’s staircase and kitchen.)

(KEVIN walks downstairs and into the kitchen. The sound of the front door opening reaches his ears. ENTER MRS. VALOR. She is a woman of average height, overweight, smooth Caucasian skin with subtle pink shades on her cheeks. She wears casual, lemon-paint-stained brown shorts and a plain teal shirt. She lets out a huge sigh and looks to KEVIN when speaking. At the same time, KEVIN is gathering his lunch and placing such items in a Winn-Dixie bag, which will go in his backpack.)

MRS. VALOR: Well, I just got back from taking Katie, Kelly, and Matt to school. I really don't like doing that because it's the morning. I wish they could just ride their bikes, but I can't let them do that. There's too many freaks in this neighborhood. I don't know what I would ever do if I lost my kids. Did you eat breakfast?

KEVIN: What do you think?

MRS. VALOR: You better have ate something. If you want to make Varsity this year, then you have to eat. You're too skinny. Look at yourself. You need to gain more muscle - like Brett.

KEVIN: Okay, first off, Brett is exceptionally humongous. I'm average. I'm okay with average. It's just the way I am. Brett is too - he's too obsessed with - nevermind, nevermind. I'm not him. I can't be him. And I don't want to be. Besides, I get a stomach ache whenever I eat breakfast anyway. Oh and can you give me a ride to school?

MRS. VALOR: Why don't you go to the gym with Brett? And why are you wearing long sleeves? It's Florida. It's hot outside even for being the morning. You ought to eat breakfast. And you ought to not wear that long sleeve shirt. Go put on another shirt.

KEVIN: Mom!

MRS. VALOR: Fine, do what you want.

KEVIN: Thank you. Well, can you?

MRS. VALOR: I have to get ready for work, so you're going to have to find a ride or drive yourself.

KEVIN: Okay, thanks for that too. Now I'm going to be late, because I have to get gas. Have a good day, bye.

MRS. VALOR: Well, you should've left earlier or woke up earlier - something!

KEVIN: I didn't know it was so hard to drive me to school, considering we live five minutes away from it. What takes you so long? Make-up? Why do you care about make-up anyway? You've got a husband. You don't need to impress anyone.

MRS. VALOR: I want to look good at work, so that I don't embarrass myself in front of my coworkers and students. Well, I have to go get ready. Just be late for school. They'll get over it.

KEVIN: Good thing Mrs. Whitman doesn't write me up for being late so much.

MRS. VALOR: Have a good day at school.

KEVIN: Thanks, you too.

MRS. VALOR (Walking away.) Thanks.

(KEVIN walks out of the door)




Act 1: Scene 3

(SETTING: The gas station)

(KEVIN returns from the counter to pay for the gas. He begins to pump the gas. That’s when he realizes AVERY is behind him. She is tall, not skinny or chubby - just a strong build. She has hardly any breasts, she has skinny arms, and clearly no buttocks. She has a very pretty face though with a prominent jaw-line. She wears a green and white striped shirt that is long sleeved, and makes her appear slender and graceful despite her imperfect body.)

AVERY: Kevin!

KEVIN: Avery!

(She walks stiffly to KEVIN and gives him a hug. He gives her a half-hug since he is pumping the gas with the other hand. When she speaks, there is tons of animation, and she uses a lot of hand gestures.)

AVERY: Oh mylanta! Kevin! How are you? I’ve missed you.

KEVIN: Avery! I’ve missed you too. And I’ve been doing good.

AVERY: That’s good. So I heard that you were trying out for soccer this year? I thought you said you weren’t?

KEVIN: I don’t know, Ave. I want to try out, but…I just don’t. (sighs dejectedly)

AVERY: Well, I think you should try out. I mean, it’s your senior year.

KEVIN: Yeah, but I’m different, you know?

AVERY: Kevin, you’re gay - what the hell does that have to do with soccer? C’mon! There are so many of the guys who asked me if you were going to try out. They want you to play! And besides, you’re not like most of the gay guys. That’s why they like you.

KEVIN: Yeah, you’re right. I just don’t know if I’m good enough. I want to try out, I really do, but I’m just not sure.

AVERY: You really should. Kevin, you’re good at soccer. I’ve been to your games and I saw you kick ass on JV last season. This season you can make Varsity. Just give it your best shot!

KEVIN: (Hesitates) Okay. Okay, Avery, I will.

AVERY: Stay true to yourself. I know you want to try out more than anything…please just do it. I know you, you’ll regret it if you don’t. Plus, you’re Kevin Valor. Everyone knows you do what you want - anything you want - and that you don’t give a shit about what anyone thinks. What’s going on now? Something’s different. Is everything alright?

KEVIN: Yeah. (smiles)

AVERY: That’s not reassuring at all.

KEVIN: Things are a little rocky with Brett and I. That’s about it.

AVERY: (sighs and frowns) Oh, Kev. That really sucks, because everyone knows how much you two love each other…if they didn’t ban gay marriage here, we’d thought you two would marry.

KEVIN: (laughs) Yeah, I couldn’t marry him.

AVERY: Why not?

KEVIN: He’s just a jackass, that’s all.

AVERY: Are you going to break up with him?

KEVIN: I’m thinking about it.

AVERY: Kevin, it has been so long. Last time I talked to you, as far as I knew, you two were swell! And now? (looks very concerned)You seem so depressed. We really need to hang out - we need to catch up. What are you doing on Friday?

KEVIN: I’ve got no plans.

AVERY: How about we go out for coffee at Boston Gourmet?

KEVIN: Sounds good to me. (smiles)

AVERY: Yes! There’s so much we need to catch up on. I hope everything is okay with you. Oh, wow, we are so late! Oh mylanta! And oh - I don't mean to be a spaz, but I gotta go! Kevin, I love you. See you later! (leaves)

(Kevin just nods his head back and forth, laughing.)




Act 1. Scene 4

(Setting: First period. Yearbook class. The room is surrounded by desks, mounted by computers. On the backside, there is a chalkboard. Facing it, you’ll see Mrs. Whitman’s desk to the left. There are four tables in the middle of the room. Every seat is occupied. People at the computers are working. People at the tables are either writing or talking. Mrs. Whitman, however, is standing near the front. She is average height, and wears jeans and a purple t-shirt. She is overweight, but she is slightly thinning out, since she has lost weight. She wears her brown hair back in a pony tail. She is 40 years old, but has the exuberance of a preppy teenager. She has a rather high pitched voice, but not the annoying kind.)

(ENTER KEVIN)

MRS. WHITMAN: (Speaks loudly to make an announcement) For those of you doing senior ads, please make sure you have it done by Friday. If you don’t have it done, I’m going to kill myself!

KEVIN: (To Mrs. Whitman) You’re going to what?

MRS. WHITMAN: (To Kevin) Well, it’s nice of you to join us - (sarcastically) gees, Kevin!

KEVIN: Yeah, just running late.

MRS. WHITMAN: Like that’s anything new! And I’m not really going to kill myself. I’m just joking! But Mrs. Kit, you know, the lady who is in charge of the deadlines and stuff, well she wants senior ads in by Friday. If the deadline has to be extended, then we have to pay extra, and quite honestly…we don’t have the money for that! (Put her hands on her hips and nods with bulging eyes) This yearbook is expensive!

KEVIN: Oh, wow, well…how much is it?

MRS. WHITMAN: 75,000 dollars!

KEVIN: Dayyyum!

MRS. WHITMAN: I’m sayin’! Oh, and they’re actually suppose to have their senior ads done by Wednesday. Then you can look at them and make sure all of the writing is correct. That way, you can tell them what they need to fix, so that everything should be perfect by Friday, but…you know how stupid teenagers are. They love to procrastinate!

(GRETCHEN is sitting at the nearest computer along the wall. She is a pretty girl. She has curly blonde hair and some freckles. While she speaks well in English, it is easy for one to know that she is from Europe.)

GRETCHEN: (smiles) Excuse me, Miss, but I finished mine just now, so Kev, you can check it.

MRS. WHITMAN: Excuse me, Miss Gretchen Zimmerman, did I say you were allowed to talk to me?

GRETCHEN: (Puts her hands up animatedly) I'm just saying, I'm just saying! (Turns to Kevin) Kevin, can you edit this for me?

KEVIN: Sure...anything for you, my nazi friend. (Kevin walks over to the computer, leans over, and begins reading the ad's writing content on the computer screen.)

MRS. WHITMAN: (walks away while speaking in a taunting voice) Ha - ha! Kevin called Gretchen a nazi.

(Gretchen rolls her eyes and laughs)




Act 1. Scene 5

(SETTING: Gretchen's locker in the hallway.)

(GRETCHEN and KEVIN are walking down the hallway.)

KEVIN: Why can't everyone in yearbook class write like you and do what you do?

GRETCHEN: I'm actually one of the few people who actually give a shit.

KEVIN: It's not just that, but you get your shit done on time and you write good. There weren't any errors.

GRETCHEN: Well, technically, it was the parents who did the writing...not me.

KEVIN: I know, but I'm just saying in general.

(GRETCHEN and KEVIN have arrived at Gretchen's locker. Gretchen opens the lock to gather several books.)

GRETCHEN: I hate having to carry three textbooks all at once.

KEVIN: Why don't you just pick them up in between each class?

GRETCHEN: (Sarcastically) Wow, Kev, that's a fantastic idea! I would have never thought of that. (Rolls her eyes.) But I can't do that because all of my classes are on the other side of the campus.

KEVIN: Your sarcasm gets really annoying sometimes.

GRETCHEN: Your stupid questions get annoying sometimes.

KEVIN: You're a bitch. I hate you.

GRETCHEN: Yes, I am a bitch, but I must disagree...you do love me actually.

KEVIN: Indeed.

GRETCHEN: Don't be a hater. (Closes her locker and notices something behind Kevin)

KEVIN: (Looks at Gretchen strangely) What?

GRETCHEN: Anthony Cataneo is totally checking you out.

KEVIN: Oh, Tony? He always does that.

GRETCHEN: Why don't you go out with him?

KEVIN: Because he's (does the quote-gesture) straight.

GRETCHEN: Are you two friends?

KEVIN: Used to be.

(Gretchen and Kevin begin to walk down the hallway)

GRETCHEN: Well, what happened?

(Kevin looks over at Tony. Tony is six feet tall, tan skin, looks Hispanic of some sort, but has enough lightness in his skin to suggest he's Italian. His eye lashes are long, his lips are lush, he wears a light blue Abercrombie shirt that makes his skin look as pure as a model's tone. He's got dark brown hair that is spiked in the front - exactly like Kevin's. The tightness of Tony's shirt emphasizes his toned arms. With arms folded, he's leaning against his locker. Kevin's eyes meet his, and Tony turns his glance in a different direction.)

KEVIN: (Sighs) Absolutely nothing.

GRETCHEN: When you say nothing, it always means something. What happened?

KEVIN: Nothing happened, really.

GRETCHEN: Something happened.

(Tony's baseball friends join him and they lightly punch each other's fists, laughing.)

KEVIN: (Hesitates) Well, we were friends during sophomore year. He'd randomly ask me to hug him sometimes. He'd play if off like he was joking around - he'd be like Kev, give me a hug and then he'd put his arms out. It was cute, yeah, but I always rejected it though, because back then...I was in the closet. I acted like a homophobe. Anyway, one night...after one of my soccer games...he was up in the press box keeping score for the Varsity game. I was on JV that year, so after JV played, Varsity played. It was cold, so I went up to the press box. I was surprised to see him there. We talked for some time. His friend Conner was with him. Everything was all good, but then Tony asked me if I was bisexual. I was so nervous and I would have told him I was, but Conner was there. I couldn't tell him.

GRETCHEN: Did you ever tell him?

KEVIN: No, but he is the main reason why I came out.

GRETCHEN: What do you mean?

(Kevin and Gretchen go through the double doors. They are now outside, walking along a path that leads to a courtyard. They keep walking straight toward a building on the other side.)

KEVIN: Well, I really liked him. And it hurt me so much to know that I had the chance...and totally blew it since I was in the closet. So about two weeks later, I came out of the closet.

GRETCHEN: Does he know?

KEVIN: He should know by now. It was juicy gossip when I came out.

GRETCHEN: That's true. I remember how excited Ramielle was when she told me. She said she wanted you and Ryan to date.

KEVIN: Who is Ryan?

GRETCHEN: Ramielle Kimura's older brother.

KEVIN: I don't know him.

GRETCHEN: Yes, you do! He's on the Varsity cheerleading team.

KEVIN: What does he look like?

GRETCHEN: He's adorable! He's a mix of Asian and Peruvian. I met his mother once. She has the coolest Peruvian accent. She liked my German accent too. Haha!

KEVIN: Oh, okay, I know who you are talking about. I know the face, but not the name. As for his mother? Never seen that woman, ha...

GRETCHEN: Well, now you know the name. So, anyway, about this Tony guy...

KEVIN: Yeah, he should know about me by now.

GRETCHEN: Has he come out to you?

KEVIN: He has, actually.

GRETCHEN: Oh my god! When?

KEVIN: Last year. We were supposed to go to the movies with Avery, who is actually pretty good friends with Tony. Well, he told me he was bi-curious. And then he said he couldn't go. He didn't tell me why, but he told Avery he didn't have any money. I think he was embarrassed to tell me that. It just shows how much he didn't really know me...I don't care about that kind of stuff.

GRETCHEN: Aw, man, that sucks.

KEVIN: Yeah, there's no point in reminiscing about the past. It doesn't change anything. I've accepted the fact that he won't ever have the balls to come out.

GRETCHEN: He seems like the type that wouldn't, but then I could say the same about you.

KEVIN: He has too much of a macho complex I guess. I don't know. I try not to think about it. Well, hey, I gotta go over there, (points to the left) so I will talk to you later.

GRETCHEN: (Hugs Kevin) Okay, my favorite little Jew, I'll see you around.

(The hugging stops.)

KEVIN: Jew, my ass.




Act 1. Scene 6

(SETTING: Second period class. Psychology. There are posters of brain projects all over the room.)

(KEVIN sits in the middle of the classroom. GARRET JONES, a tall young man with a little mess of brown hair yet a handsome face, sits to his left. AVERY sits to his right. In front of Avery, sits MADISON, who has long blonde hair. It is the same shade as Gretchen’s hair. She has bright green eyes and subtle freckles about an inch under her eyes. She has very white teeth when she smiles and always wears bright pink lipstick and eye-shadow that matches her shirt. Today, she wears a green shirt with green eye shadow. She is rather short and skinny, but has big breasts and a booty. She is one of those girls that look as if she’d have no problem finding a guy. NIA ALVEREZ sits in front of Kevin [and to Maddie’s left]. She is average height, Puerto Rican, and has beautifully long brown hair. Her face is kind of like a fish, because of her big lips, but she is still uniquely fascinating. To Nia’s left (and in front of Garret) sits RAMIELLE KIMURA. She is short and seems to carry more of her mother’s Peruvian characteristics. She appears intelligent because she wears glasses, and when she speaks, her articulation and charisma is impeccable. To Garret’s left, TANNER THOMAS sits. He is about 6’4’’ tall and is the chubby kind of buff guy - anyone around him would know that he is a fullback for the football team.)

(GARRET leans over toward KEVIN, who leans over slightly to listen.)

GARRET: Dude…are you trying out?

KEVIN: Yeah.

GARRET: Thank God! I heard you weren’t.

KEVIN: Yeah I changed my mind.

MADDIE: Good, because you kicked ass last season. And you know I’m going to be coming to your games!

AVERY: See, Kevin, I told you people wanted you to try out!

KEVIN: Yeah, I see that. Haha. It’s definitely…reassuring.

TANNER: Yeah, Kevin, you better try out or I’m gonna beat your ass!

KEVIN: Try me. I’ll outrun you. (Smiles)

TANNER: I’d kick your ass any day.

KEVIN: Well, no shit. Take a look at yourself, then take a look at me. At least I’m faster than you though.

TANNER: You can’t be faster than me, because one step that I take is like two or three steps that you take.

KEVIN: Yeah, and I’m still faster than you. Haha.

GARRET: Kevin is pretty fast.

(Ramielle turns around toward Tanner.)

RAMIELLE: Not only that, but Tanner is very slow. My grandma can run faster than him - and she’s dead!

(Garret and Kevin laugh. Tanner pretends to be very angry.)

TANNER: (Leaning toward Ramielle with a mean face.) I’ll take care of you later.

RAMIELLE: (Smiles innocently) You’re cute when you’re angry.

TANNER: (Sits back with his arms folded and speaks confidently.) Psh, I’m always cute.

RAMIELLE: But not when you’re cocky. (Smiles)

NIA: Ouch!

GARRET: Burn!

KEVIN: Dude, how do you put up with that? You can’t tolerate that. She owes you for that one…looks like she’s got her work cut out tonight, huh?

TANNER: Oh, she’s gonna be doing some homework tonight, that’s for sure. (Winks at Ramielle.)

(Ramielle laughs and turns around.)

TEACHER: What are you talking about? Ramielle always does her homework!

TANNER: And you know she does! Ha! Ha!

(Everyone laughs hysterically while the teacher looks extremely confused.)




Act 1. Scene 7

(Setting: The courtyard. This is where the cliques gather. There are the rednecks, the emo-kids, the skaters, the losers, the ghetto, the football team, Puerto Rico, and then there’s the preps, which consists of anyone who has a good amount of money or dresses nice. The latter is Kevin’s clique.)

(KEVIN, AVERY, GRETCHEN, GARRET, MADISON, NIA, RAMIELLE, TANNER, CHAUNCEY JAMES JOHNSON, and ASHLEIGH CONROY crowd around in a big group. CHAUNCEY is as tall as Tanner, but is ripped. He dresses like a white boy does and has a very deep voice. ASHLEIGH is average height, skinny, and has shiny black hair that goes down to her bosoms. She talks in a stereotypical preppy girl voice.)

TANNER: Friday is my birthday, so come to my party!

ASHLEIGH: Um, Tanner, don’t you have a football game or something?

TANNER: Nope. This week is a by-week.

ASHLEIGH: What’s a by-week?

TANNER: It means we weren’t scheduled to have a game this week.

NIA: Don’t you guys have practice?

TANNER: Yeah, but the party doesn’t start until 7PM anyway. Hey, everyone, the party starts at 7PM!

NIA: Your parents don’t care?

TANNER: Nah, my parents are mad cool. They understand it’s my eighteenth birthday. They told me to do whatever I want, but to make sure everyone had a safe ride home.

NIA: Well, that’s cool.

CHAUNCEY: Yo, Tanner, if I get wasted off mah ass, would you let me crash at yo place?

NIA: Aye, Chauncey!

CHAUNCEY: Sup, Nia.

TANNER: Sure, no problem. We have a guest bedroom upstairs, but please…don’t do anything stupid.

CHAUNCEY: Alright, cool. Thanks bra.

GARRET: Yeah, Tanner, if I’m wasted can I sleep on your couch?

TANNER: It’s no problem. You two are like my brothers. Try not to get too wasted though, because if it gets too out of control, then I need help getting everyone out.

RAMIELLE: You’re a big guy, I’m sure if you got angry, then they’d leave.

TANNER: I thought I was cute when I was angry?

RAMIELLE: Oh, good point. Then just smile at them. Creep them out, maybe then they’ll leave…

TANNER: You’re staying the night on Friday.

RAMIELLE: Oh am I?

TANNER: You are. You owe me.

RAMIELLE: I don’t owe you!

TANNER: You sure do, because you’ve been so mean to me!

RAMIELLE: Toughen up, tough guy.

(TANNER scoops RAMIELLE up in his arms and holds her tight. Then he kisses her on the cheek.)

RAMIELLE: Put me down! (laughs)

TANNER: (Puts Ramielle down.) Alright, babe, we gotta go to class. (He leans down and kisses her. RAMIELLE kisses him back.)

(TANNER and RAMIELLE leave for class)

GARRET: Aw, what cute lovebirds.

NIA: They’re mad cute.

GARRET: Funny how you have the biggest guy in the whole school with the smallest girl in the Junior class.

NIA: That is kind of weird, but I like my guys to be taller. It makes me feel more safe and secure.

GARRET: No comment. (Turns around and talks to Chauncey)

NIA: Haha. Kevin, you know what I mean.

KEVIN: What?

NIA: You like your guys to be taller than you?

KEVIN: Well, yeah.

NIA: Are you still with Brett?

KEVIN: Yep…

NIA: Are you the boy or the girl in the relationship?

KEVIN: Ha…well, it’s equal. We’re just two guys in a relationship. There’s no girl and there’s no guy. I guess I'm kind of the bitch.

NIA: Whoa, so you’re the bitch?

KEVIN: Well, take a look at Brett…it’s expected.

NIA: Well that’s true. I can’t believe he’s gay. He’s so hot…and he was one of the star players on the football team…quite a temper tantrum he threw that one night, huh?

KEVIN: Yeah…

NIA: Were you two going out back then?

KEVIN: Yeah, we had been going out for about six months at that point.

NIA: How long has it been as of now?

KEVIN: Eight months.

(NIA and KEVIN begin walking to class.)

NIA: Are you going to Tanner’s party?

KEVIN: Yeah…I just have to go out with Avery. We’re going out for coffee and to catch up on stuff. Afterwards, we’ll probably go. I have to come up with a good lie though.

NIA: Lie about what?

KEVIN: Well, Brett hates Tanner…

NIA: How come?

KEVIN: When Brett threw his temper tantrum at the game that one night, the coach kicked him off of the team. Tanner replaced Brett, so he’s pissed.

NIA: That’s retarded. It’s his own dumb fault for losing his temper.

KEVIN: Exactly.

NIA: Why are you wearing long sleeves anyway?

KEVIN: I like this shirt.

NIA: He seems like the abusive kind of boyfriend. Does he hit you?

KEVIN: Nia! No! He would never do that!

NIA: Sorry, but he seemed like a madman when he freaked out the night. It was ridiculous. I’m sorry if I’m being nosy, but you’re my friend, and I do think about stuff like this.

KEVIN: It’s understandable. He was just mad that night.

NIA: I did the same thing when I was going out with my ex…

KEVIN: What are you saying?

NIA: I’m not stupid, Kevin. You need to break up with him. About two weeks ago, I saw a bruise on your forehead. Make-up can’t cover that! And plus you were absent the day before. I went through the same exact thing. You can’t seriously tell me that he doesn’t hit you…when he clearly does.

KEVIN: (sounding aggravated.) Niiiaaa! He doesn’t! I fell down the stairs.

NIA: Kevin, I said the same damn thing, and my house isn’t even two-story.

KEVIN: Then that’s just horrible lying on your part.

NIA: Speaking of lying, why do you need to lie about going to Tanner’s party?

KEVIN: Brett will get mad.

NIA: So what if he gets mad? You’re just scared he’s going to hit you. Kevin, you need to get rid of him. And honestly I don’t care if I’m pissing you off right now, because it’s the truth. You need someone to kick you in the ass and tell you what to do with your life. He’s not good for you. Ugh.

KEVIN: Can we just drop this topic?

NIA: (Sighs) Sure. It’s just hard…because I know. I’ve been through the same damn thing.

KEVIN: Drop it?

NIA: You know what? No. I’m not dropping it. I’ve been there and done it, and if you don’t want to listen to me, then it’s whatever - it’s whatever! If you get yourself hurt over and over again, then it’s your own damn fault, because you let it happen.

KEVIN: Wow, Nia, I really don’t want to talk to you right now. This is absurd. (Walks a different way.)

NIA: (Shouting.) We’re in the same damn class, stupid ass, I don’t where the hell you’re going! But if you don’t want to talk to me, then it isn’t my problem! Not anymore. And you know what, I apologize, yeah, I apologize for giving a damn about you!




Act 1. Scene 8

(SETTING: 7th period. PawPrint - class for the school newspaper. The arrangement is the exact same from first period, since it is the same classroom, except there are different people. MRS. WHITMAN is at her desk. ASHLEIGH and KEVIN are sitting at the table nearest to the teacher’s desk.)

KEVIN: (Sighs) Don’t you just love newspaper class…

ASHLEIGH: Kevin, something’s wrong.

KEVIN: (Looks miserable.) What? Nah, I’m just tired.

ASHLEIGH: (Looks suspicious.) If you say so.

KEVIN: (Hesitates.) I have to go out and ask people survey questions. Do you want to come with me?

ASHLEIGH: Sure.

KEVIN: (To MRS. WHITMAN) Hey, Mrs. Whitman.

MRS. WHITMAN: Yes?

ASHLEIGH: We’re going out to ask survey questions.

MRS. WHITMAN: (Shrugs her shoulders.) Alright.

(KEVIN gathers a folder and a paper with question-answers on it, marked by tallies. ASHLEIGH grabs her red notebook. KEVIN and ASHLEIGH walk to the front of the room, and sign the sign-out sheet on the counter.)

MRS. WHITMAN: (Speaking loudly across the room.) But hey, Ashleigh - and you too, Kevin - don’t get yourselves in trouble. If you do get in trouble, then as far as I’m concerned, I don’t know you ‘cause, well, we all know how both of you always misbehave. I’m getting really tired of it.

(KEVIN and ASHLEIGH laugh.)

MRS. WHITMAN: I’m tired of looking at you two. Get out of here! (Smiles and laughs.) You know I’m kidding! See you later!




Act 1. Scene 9

(SETTING: The courtyard.)

ASHLEIGH: So why is Nia mad at you?

KEVIN: She thinks Brett abuses me.

ASHLEIGH: Why on earth would she think that?

KEVIN: Well, he freaked out over a call at one of his football games. He made such a fool of himself that the coach kicked him off of the team. When he freaked out like a maniac, Nia saw…and so from there, she thinks he’s an abusive boyfriend.

ASHLEIGH: Does he abuse you?

KEVIN: Of course not!

ASHLEIGH: (Looks puzzled.) It’s not like Nia to just make random accusations. Are you sure, Kev? If you ever need anyone to talk to, I’m here for you. You know, when I was little, my dad would - well, lets just say I know what abuse is like. It’s a different kind of abuse, but it’s not as unusual as you think - if you need someone to talk to -

KEVIN: He doesn’t hit me!

ASHLEIGH: I never said he hit you.

KEVIN: That’s what Nia said.

ASHLEIGH: Oh… (Still looks puzzled.)

KEVIN: (Sighs.) Well, I still have to ask two more people if I want to get to 100.

ASHLEIGH: (Points over to their left.) You should ask that guy, he’s a cutie!

(ENTER TONY.)

KEVIN: (Realizes the person she’s pointing at is Tony.) Oh, no, I can’t ask him.

ASHLEIGH: Why not?

KEVIN: I can’t.

ASHLEIGH: If you’re too shy, then I’ll ask him! (Grabs the paper from Kevin and pulls out a pen from her pocket) Alright. (To TONY) Hey, you!
TONY: Me?

ASHLEIGH: Yeah, you!

TONY: What’s up? (Notices KEVIN and looks at Ashleigh instantly.)

ASHLEIGH: Can I ask you a survey question?

TONY: (Looks back at KEVIN, who is scratching his head and walking the other way.) Sure. (Looks a bit confused and lets out a deep sigh.)

ASHLEIGH: (Looks puzzled. Hesitates.) You ready?

TONY: Yeah, so what’s the question. (Clearly looks a bit frustrated.)

ASHLEIGH: What do you think is the best way to heal a broken heart?

TONY: (Rolls his eyes.) Wow…

ASHLEIGH: (Looks frustrated and puzzled.) I’m sorry, did you not want to answer this question?

TONY: (Surprised.) Oh, no! It’s cool.

ASHLEIGH: (Gives a dirty look.) Are you sure?

TONY: Positive. (His eyes are looking for KEVIN, who is now out of site.)

ASHLEIGH: (Rolls her eyes.) I don’t know how Kevin does this.

TONY: What about Kevin?

ASHLEIGH: You know Kevin?

TONY: No.

ASHLEIGH: But you know his name.

TONY: We used to be friends back in sophomore year.

ASHLEIGH: Oh.

TONY: Yeah, we don’t talk anymore.

ASHLEIGH: Hmm. Well, I’m sorry about that - or hey - wait - why don’t you talk anymore?

TONY: (Hesitates and looks thoughtful.) Uh, well, you see…

ASHLEIGH: (Looks at him attentively.) Well, what?

TONY: We just didn’t have any classes together. We drifted.

ASHLEIGH: Oh, okay, well that makes sense. Anyway!

TONY: Yeah, sorry about that.

ASHLEIGH: No, it’s fine, nothing to be sorry about. So here is the question. What is the best way to heal a broken heart? (Hesitates.) A. Take a break from all romantic pursuits. The heart needs to heal on its own.

TONY: Hmm.

ASHLEIGH: Or B. The only way the heart can heal is if you fall in love with someone else, perhaps as a replacement or an improvement.

TONY: No, not that one.

ASHLEIGH: Or, lastly, C. The broken heart can only be fixed by the one who broke it. Perhaps a second chance is needed or some kind of ideal closure.

TONY: (Still looking around for Kevin.) Uh, yeah, that one. C. Yeah, C for sure. (Sighs quietly.)

ASHLEIGH: (Looks puzzled.) Interesting choice.

TONY: Why…what did you put?

ASHLEIGH: A.

TONY: That’s the ideal, but the reality is B or C.

ASHLEIGH: That’s an interesting point of view, but I disagree. I think B is clearly a no-no. As for C? There’s no point in going back to someone who broke your heart.

TONY: You probably didn’t love the person in the first place.

ASHLEIGH: Um, I’ve never been in love, honey.

TONY: Ha, then how is your opinion valid? You don’t know what you’re talking about. (Laughs with a charming smile.)

ASHLEIGH: (Looks indignant.) Well, excuse me! I do know what I’m talking about! Psh, wow, well, screw you, asshole! (Gives him the middle finger and walks away.)

TONY: (Taken aback.) Well, excuse me. I was just joking.

ASHLEIGH: (Still flicking him off.) Whatever, asshole!

TONY: (Mutters with his hands on his hips.) I can’t stand bitches…




Act 1. Scene 10

(SETTING: The hallway that leads to Mrs. Whitman’s room. They are walking.)

ASHLEIGH: I’ve never been so insulted ever in my journalism career!

KEVIN: Ashleigh, it’s really not that big of a deal. And stop…you’re still in school. It’s not a career yet.

ASHLEIGH: It might as well be! We write so many god damn stories for every issue, it’s like work, it’s not like class.

KEVIN: Class means work! It’s just the way it is. And we can’t help that we’re short staffed…we just have to deal with it.

ASHLEIGH: (Bitterly.) I don’t know what I’m talking about? Fuck him!

KEVIN: He probably didn’t mean it like that.

ASHLEIGH: Who are you to say when you ditched me there!

KEVIN: Ugh. You’re such a drama queen.

ASHLEIGH: Drama queen!

KEVIN: You are totally overreacting!

ASHLEIGH: Ugh! Excuse -

(KEVIN stops ASHLEIGH.)

KEVIN: Ashleigh! Shut the fuck up for ten seconds, will you? Okay, lets pretend that Tony really is a total asshole and totally had every intention in the world of degrading you. Yeah, so you want to not only be a journalist when you grow up, but you want to be editor in chief? Well, guess what, Ashleigh, you’re going to have to deal with bitches. There are going to be days when you ask a person on the street a question…and they totally ignore you! It happens. You just have to stop being a bitch about it, and just fucking deal with it. You want to interview the president of the United States? Do you think he will want to be interviewed by you, knowing that you cussed out Miley Cyrus or something? Come on, Ashleigh, wake up and smell the coffee! Shit happens, you can’t take it personally - it’s just part of the job! (Hesitates) And Tony is a great guy! I know he didn’t mean it like that, so stop making it out to be something that it isn’t.

(ASHLEIGH looks utterly speechless, backing away, and running off three seconds later.)

KEVIN: Ashleigh…

(ASHLEIGH runs out of the double doors. KEVIN rolls his eyes and turns around and literally walks into TONY.)

KEVIN: Whoa, I’m sorry!

TONY: It’s cool, it’s cool.

KEVIN: Hey - uh - did you hear all of that.

TONY: (Nods and smiles.) Uh, yeah.

KEVIN: Sorry about that…I heard about what happened…and…I know you didn’t mean it like that.

TONY: Well, I kind of did. She was rude…rolling her eyes, getting an attitude with me, and looking at me like I’m an idiot. I can’t stand girls - err - bitches.

KEVIN: Ashleigh is a good person at heart, but…she definitely has her moments.

TONY: I don’t like her. She’s a bitch, plain and simple.

KEVIN: So where are you off to?

TONY: Skipping. (Looks rather embarrassed.)

KEVIN: How come?

TONY: I hate art class.

KEVIN: (Laughs.) I’m taking that class right now - well, I’m taking Drawing class. It’s easy. It’s impossible to get less than a B if you do a neat job…even if you’re not the most creative person in the world.

TONY: See, the thing is, I’m just terrible at art. (Smiles.)

KEVIN: Well, you’re good at baseball…how’s that going?

TONY: Pretty good. We’re dead even at five wins and five losses.

KEVIN: Do you guys think you’ll pull out a winning record? Actually, can I just write all of this down for an interview? You’ll be in the newspaper.

TONY: Yeah, I’d much rather be interviewed by you…rather than that dumb bitch. Oh, my bad, I know she’s your friend and all.

KEVIN: Ha, but as you observed, she’s pissed at me right now.

TONY: I think you made her cry.

KEVIN: Oh well. The truth hurts.

TONY: (Punches Kevin in the arm.) You’re a little punk aren’t you?

KEVIN: Ouch! (Recovers while grabbing his arm with notebook and pen still in hand.) Little?

TONY: Yeah, little. And I didn’t even punch you that hard. (Laughs)

KEVIN: I know, I just have a bruise there - but hey I can pull down my pants right now and prove you wrong.

TONY: I don’t think that’s school appropriate. Ha! But what happened to your arm?

KEVIN: (Sighs and smiles.) Nothing. So, tell me, Anthony Cataneo, what is your position?

TONY: Pitcher.

KEVIN: (Writes.) Indeed. (Smirks.)

TONY: (Laughs.) Dude, you’re sick.

KEVIN: Insane in the membrane! Do you think you guys will have a winning record?

TONY: Well, we already played the two toughest teams twice.

KEVIN: (Writes.) Alliteration king, I bow to you.

TONY: You like getting down on your knees, bitch.

KEVIN: Haha. Tony, where have you been all of my life. It’s been too long…I’ve missed your pervertedness.

TONY: Yeah, it has been a while.

KEVIN: You are quite the poet too, you know.

TONY: Aye, I’m not bad at English! I’m in honors and I have a B.

KEVIN: That’s good. Alright, so continue about baseball, por favor…

TONY: Oh, right. Well, we played Deland and Spruce Creek. Deland beat us 6-4 and then 5-4. Spruce Creek beat us 7-2 and then 10-3. Those were our toughest games.

KEVIN: (Writes.) So the teams you are playing are going to be easier than Deland and Spruce Creek?

TONY: Yes sir…all of the other teams are easy. The only reason Pine Ridge beat us was because I had to go to Italy for a week…my grandfather’s funeral. I don’t mean that as if I’m the only man on the team, but my absence left the team without a pitcher.

KEVIN: (Writes.) Oh, man, I’m sorry about your loss.

TONY: (Shrugs.) I didn’t really know the guy to tell you the truth. My mother was heartbroken though, but it was her father, so yeah…

KEVIN: I understand. So it is fair to assume that since you are back, Varsity has their pitcher back, and everyone should expect there to be wins?

TONY: Yeah, that’s right.

KEVIN: Can you put that into your words?

TONY: Sure. Since I’m back, the Varsity has their pitcher. And since the rest of the teams we play aren’t hard to beat, everyone should expect us to win the rest of our games and come out with a winning record. (Hesitates.) We should at least place third in the district, so that will qualify us for competing in the District Cup tournament if we do succeed, and we will.

KEVIN: (Writes rather sloppily.) Okay, honestly, I get the idea of what you’re saying. I won’t remember your exact words, but the same message will be conveyed in the writing.

TONY: Cool, well, thanks for interviewing me. (Punches KEVIN’S arm.)

KEVIN: Awe! That hurts, man, not cool.

TONY: Oh, my bad. Haha. And you play soccer! I’ve seen you play, you’re a tough guy. Is that how you hurt yourself?

KEVIN: Yeah.

TONY: Are you trying out?

KEVIN: Yeah, for sure!

TONY: Cool. Oh, and are you gonna go to Tanner’s birthday party on Friday?

KEVIN: You bet.

TONY: Awesome, so I’ll see you there.

KEVIN: Alright, see you then.

(TONY puts out his hand for brotherly handshake, KEVIN joins him. They clasp hands and pull together, patting each other on the back, but it seems more like a hug - a clear, mutual attempt to feel one another.)

KEVIN: See ya…

(KEVIN pulls away first and starts walking back to class.)

TONY: (Begins walking the other way.) Later.

(Both smile as they walk away.)