Lights go up on the other side of the stage, where a door leads to center stage, where EZRA, ROBIN, HAZEL, and MIA (GSA STUDENT) stand together. Inside, STUDENTS, including LEXIE and KAYLA, each with a handsome male date, dance and talk and text, hanging out like normal teenagers at a dance. On the other side of the door is a teacher, boredly reading a book. HAZEL and MIA are extremely close to each other and act very touchy toward each other. On the other hand, EZRA and ROBIN both look around, standing five feet apart.

MIA Oh my god! I am so excited! Ahh! I can’t even contain my excitement!

HAZEL Me too, babe! they proceed to freak out together

EZRA to ROBIN Um, want to… uh… hold hands, maybe? blushes

ROBIN Um, sure. They awkwardly try and figure out how their hands go together, and in the end give up, laughing.

HAZEL visibly looks them both up and down Nerds. She turns back to MIA and gives her a kiss on the nose. EZRA and ROBIN exchange a nervous glance, ignoring the two, and turn together toward the door once more.

EZRA Shall we?

ROBIN nods We shall.

Together, with HAZEL and MIA behind them, they open the door and enter the dance extremely awkwardly. Eventually, they start to dance together, slowly getting more and more comfortable with each other. The four don’t see it, but KAYLA and LEXIE exchange a mean, hungry look and nod towards the door, showing their boyfriends, who give maniacal grins to each other. They start muttering amongst themselves but put a hand up, gesturing to wait. One of them pulls out a small knife, visible only to the audience and the bullies. Suddenly, STUDENTS all form a clear barrier between the STUDENTS and the TEACHER, who has by now fallen asleep in their chair, snoring softly. HAZEL and MIA are on one side of the stage, dancing very passionately, completely oblivious to everything else on the stage.

HAZEL So… how do you like the dance?

MIA I’m hungry and I have to pee.

HAZEL Yeah, let’s go get some snacks!

They chase each other off-stage playfully. As all of this is happening, EZRA and ROBIN are standing together while holding hands, smiling at each other, still quite awkward with each other.

EZRA How are you?

ROBIN I’m excellent right now, actually.

EZRA Good!

Beat.

ROBIN You know… I’ve been thinking a lot lately…

EZRA Oh?

ROBIN Like, about what you’ve told me. About not letting people control my life and the way that I act and react to, well, everything and how things get better. I’ve decided that I want to be in charge of my life instead of letting my life and all those people control me. I want to live my life for once, to truly live it in every aspect. And that’s why I need to tell you something that I’ve realized during my time as your friend, and it can’t wait ’till later at all. Can I tell you? Promise not to laugh or anything?

EZRA Of course. I promise.

ROBIN Okay. Um. Here goes. I… I’ve realized that I, uh, I-

KAYLA Well, well, well! with a cruel smile, stepping between the two. As they were talking, the rest of the STUDENTS, besides HAZEL and MIA, who are still very distracted with each other, file around them, forming a tight-knit semi-circle that blocks anyone else’s view except the audience from seeing the scene. Inside the semi-circle are EZRA and ROBIN, KAYLA, LEXIE, and their boyfriends. KAYLA pulls out some lipstick and starts re-applying it while LEXIE talks, who holds a cross necklace around her neck.

LEXIE God, I can’t believe you two freaks. You’re such a disgrace. I can’t even tell you how much I hate you. You don’t deserve to be here at all. You-

EZRA I don’t care. steps protectively in front of ROBIN Please leave us alone.

KAYLA Oh, please. Your very existence makes me want to puke. She motions to the boyfriends, who shove EZRA out of the way and into the group of students, who hold him as he struggles unsuccessfully.

LEXIE Perfect!

ROBIN What do you want from us? ROBIN runs to EZRA’s side, but one of the boyfriends holds them back while the other one grabs the front of EZRA’s shirt and punches him in the face. KAYLA and LEXIE laugh joyfully as EZRA cries out in pain and surprise. Stop! EZRA gets punched again, this time in the stomach. ROBIN struggles against the boyfriend with no luck. Finally, they stomp on STUDENT’s foot, making them lose their grip on ROBIN, who glares daggers at them until they back away, uncertain. Leave us alone!

LEXIE Um, babe, what are you doing? concerned yet angry Get the you-know-what! The STUDENT pulls out the knife again, and turns back to EZRA, grinning. ROBIN tries to grab it from him, but the rest of the STUDENTS stop them from reaching him. He is about to run the knife through EZRA when ROBIN interrupts.

ROBIN Stop! Everyone freezes, turning to look at them, including EZRA, who looks terrified for his friend. How dare you?! How dare any of you assume that you’re somehow better than us just because we’re different! Yeah, I know why you all hate us, and why you listen to Kayla and Lexie instead of being your own individual, beautiful people. It’s because you’re scared. It’s okay. You can be scared. Kayla and Lexie, however, are just bullies. That’s who they are. They’re bullies because deep down, they’re scared, too. And being scared is okay! It’s just not okay when they use it to justify cruelty to others. But no matter what they choose to do, who they choose to become, that should never stop you from being an individual human being. As someone who used to be friends with them, I know the way that they treat their ‘friends.’ It’s not good, to put it lightly. One thing that I’ve discovered since coming out is that everyone has a choice in who they become. As an old friend put it once, it’s simple. It’s not easy, but it’s simple. And that’s not something I can just tell you to do. It’s up to each and every one of you to change. I know it’s hard, but I believe that you can do it. They take a deep breath and turn to KAYLA and LEXIE, who have become embarrassed and are looking away. Kayla, Lexie, I’m sorry that this is the way things have to be. I truly wish you the best in your life. I hope that you will one day learn about who you are and the proper way to treat a person who is different from you. But for now, I’ll just wait for that day. I-

KAYLA Okay, shut up. We get it.

LEXIE Yeah. You think you’re better than us, but-

KAYLA Let’s just leave, Lexie. This dance is stupid anyways.

LEXIE I totally agree. I’m out of here.

KAYLA ’Bye, losers. They drag the boyfriends with them as they exit through the door, past the sleeping teacher, who has still not woken up or noticed anything that has happened on stage.

As all of this is happening, the STUDENTS start to disperse, going back to dancing, to think about everything that just happened. A few STUDENTS ad lib apologies to EZRA and ROBIN as they leave to dance. Soon, the scene is back to how it was in the beginning, with EZRA and ROBIN on center stage together; HAZEL and MIA off to the side, still oblivious to everything that has happened; and the rest of the students besides KAYLA, LEXIE, and their boyfriends dancing near EZRA and ROBIN. EZRA and ROBIN make sure that they’re both alright and finally just smile and hug each other. Then, as a slow song comes on, they start to dance again. MIA and HAZEL re-enter and start slow-dancing but keep an eye on EZRA and ROBIN.

ROBIN Well. I tried my best, but I honestly doubt that anyone’s going to change.

EZRA That’s okay. You did what you could. Thank you, by the way. I could have died there. We’re definitely reporting that later.

ROBIN No problem. I had to do something. I just wish I could have done more, you know? Like I said, no one’s going to change.

EZRA It’s okay. There’s not much more you could have done. Besides, you planted a seed. Whether it grows or not is their choice.

ROBIN Yeah, I guess you’re right. Awkward beat.

EZRA So… before all of… that… happened, you were trying to tell me something? Remember? What was it?

ROBIN turns red Oh, yeah. Um, it’s silly. I shouldn’t-

EZRA No, it’s okay. You can tell me.

ROBIN Okay. Um, I’ve realized that I, uh, I might have a very small, minor crush on you.

EZRA smiles I-

ROBIN Don’t laugh!

EZRA How small of a crush?

ROBIN Well, it’s not very small, actually. Um, actually, it’s pretty big. I kinda really, really like you.

EZRA Well, in that case, I have something to confess, too.

ROBIN Oh?

EZRA Yeah.

ROBIN Okay, go for it.

EZRA Okay. I, um, I kinda really, really like you, too. both smile and blush really hard. Beat. Hey, I have a question for you.

ROBIN Oh? Tell me.

EZRA Only if you promise not to laugh.

ROBIN Okay, I promise.

EZRA Can I… um… kiss you?

ROBIN gives a big smile Yes.

EZRA smiles bigger Really?!

ROBIN Yes!

EZRA Awesome. Um, how…? gestures vaguely

ROBIN I don’t know…

EZRA frowns, contemplating, when ROBIN kisses him briefly on the lips. Surprised, they both put their hands to their lips, eyes wide. Then, EZRA takes their face in his hands, and they start kissing for real this time. Finally, as they kiss, HAZEL and MIA notice everything around them. Pointing excitedly, HAZEL sprints to EZRA and ROBIN, who ignore her.

HAZEL Ooooh! Looky here! At last, EZRA and ROBIN separate, blushing and smiling at each other That was adorable, by the way. I totally ship it.

MIA Awwww!

HAZEL That was hella cute, by the way.

MIA I totally agree.

EZRA a little embarrassed Hey, uh, want to go play Dungeons and Dragons at my house, anyone?

HAZEL Ooh! Ooh! Me! I do! Want to come? to MIA, who nods enthusiastically

MIA Hell yeah!

EZRA Robin? offers his hand to them

ROBIN Sure! Sounds like a lot of fun! takes his hand

HAZEL Yeah! Let’s go! As they head out, the entire scene suddenly freezes, except for ROBIN who walks to the edge of the stage, pulling out a letter and pencil and addressing the audience as they pretend to write the letter.

ROBIN Dear Universe, Do you know what it feels like to love yourself? I may still struggle, and I may still fall, but I can get back up. I know that I can. I am strong. I can be brave and scared at the same time. I am beautiful. I can do this. And you know what? You can, too. You are strong and beautiful and brave and scared and a wonderful, amazing individual human being. And remember, if you’re ever struggling, there are people out there that care about you so, so much. Even if it doesn’t feel like it, and you just feel like you can’t hang on, not even for yourself, hang on for me. And Dan. And Ezra. And Hazel. And everyone else out in the world who loves you that you may never know about. Now, at this point, it’s up to you. There’s not much more that I can do. So please, Universe, go out into the world, and never forget what you’ve learned from me and my story. Goodbye for now, Robin.

They put their head down, and the lights go down as well.

END SCENE 12

CURTAIN CALL

Lights go up on a therapist’s office, where ROBIN, MOM, and DAD sit awkwardly together, a full duffel bag next to them. Nearby, a male THERAPIST sits in a chair with a clipboard. Soft classical music plays in the background.

THERAPIST Now take one last deep, deep breath… and open your eyes. Thank you! Our meditation is finished. Now, what can you all tell me? How are you feeling?

MOTHER Calmer, definitely.

THERAPIST Good, good. Others? Agreement? Wonderful. Sometimes we forget to slow down and breathe, and everything just keeps building up and building up, and we don’t know what to do with it all. This was a simple short exercise that you can practice at home when you feel yourself getting stressed. Any questions for me? Concerns? Anything at all? No? Alrighty! Well, I think that that was a very successful session with you all. Please do go home and remember our homework. Thank you again for coming, all of you. I hope you have a wonderful time at your winter formal tonight, Robin.

ROBIN Thank you, Nick! high-fives the THERAPIST; As the family leaves the office with the duffel bag, lights go down on it, and they cross to center stage, where MOM and DAD stop and each give ROBIN a kiss on the forehead.

FATHER Love you, dear. gives them an awkward punch in the arm

MOTHER Tell Ezra’s mother hello for me, honey. hugs ROBIN tightly

ROBIN Too tight! Too tight! takes a deep breath when MOTHER lets go

MOTHER Sorry, dearest. I love you, okay?

FATHER Yes, love you, Robin. hands the duffel bag to ROBIN

ROBIN Love you both.

MOTHER and FATHER both walk off stage, and ROBIN walks in the other direction to where HAZEL and EZRA wait for ROBIN. EZRA has no crutches anymore and wears formal men’s attire with a bowtie and his hair done nicely. HAZEL is sitting upside down in her chair, wearing sweatpants and a hoodie. ROBIN knocks on the door, and gets shouting from EZRA to come in.

EZRA If it’s Robin, come in! If not, screw off!

ROBIN Yeah, it’s me! Opens the door and closes it behind them. They take off their coat and toss it on the floor. Hey, Ezra. Hey- Hazel? You good?

HAZEL Yeah, I’m good. I mean, my head feels a little weird at this point, but it’s fine. What’s up?

ROBIN Not much. Just got back from therapy. You guys ready for the dance?

HAZEL Hell yeah! falls off her chair.

ROBIN Is that what you’re wearing?

HAZEL What? No. I was kidding. My dress is in the bathroom. I was gonna wait and see what you showed up wearing. I guess I should go change now though. Hey, actually, you can change first. I’m gonna do my makeup quick before I put my dress on. takes out a bag of makeup.

ROBIN Um, okay. walks off-stage to go change as HAZEL starts doing makeup.

HAZEL Hey, can I do your makeup?

EZRA I don’t usually wear makeup.

HAZEL Come on, it’s a special occasion!

Silence comes from EZRA, who sits on his phone.

HAZEL Pleeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaase!

More silence.

HAZEL Pretty please with sugar on top and all that good shit and-

EZRA Oh for the love of- fine!

HAZEL Yes! I’ll just do a little bit, don’t worry. She sits on his lap, making him yelp in surprise, and starts putting a ton of makeup on his face (MUST HAVE EXTREME HIGHLIGHT; can ad lib parts here as they argue with each other). Finally, she’s finished, and she steps back, showing the crowd a very grumpy, makeup-covered EZRA, who smiles halfheartedly. As he uses his phone as a mirror to check out his new face, ROBIN walks slowly on stage in their formal masculine attire with styled hair, some light makeup (besides extreme highlight), and smiles at them.

ROBIN How do I look? HAZEL and EZRA both look over, HAZEL smirking seductively and EZRA looking slightly turned on.

HAZEL Hello, sexy… Hahahaha, I’m just kidding, I’m a lesbian.

EZRA You look… wonderful. Amazing. Handsome. I think that tonight is going to be memorable.

HAZEL I should hope so. starts heading off-stage I’m going to change. See you losers in a bit! exits

EZRA and ROBIN smile, staring after HAZEL, who is now off-stage. Then they turn to each other again.

ROBIN So…

EZRA So.

ROBIN What do you think?

EZRA About what?

ROBIN Anything!

EZRA Well, I think that you look absolutely wonderful, and I can’t wait to spend the whole night with you.

ROBIN The same to you.

EZRA Thanks. Beat.

ROBIN So, Hazel did your makeup, huh?

EZRA Yeah, I didn’t have much of a choice. I figured, it’s one of our last high school dances, might as well let her do it. You know?

ROBIN Yeah. Beat. Man, I am not going to miss high school at all.

EZRA gives a humorless laugh Yeah, me neither. This really just sucks a lot. I can’t wait to get out in the real world, where things will be different.

ROBIN I agree. I don’t know if I’ll like it or not, but at least we won’t have to deal with all the high school drama anymore.

EZRA Amen.

ROBIN So… what are you thinking about the future?

EZRA I really don’t know yet. Probably college, not sure where, then… I don’t even know what. You?

ROBIN Yeah, I’ve been thinking about it a lot, and I think I want to get out of here and go somewhere. I’ve applied to a few schools out in New York that will hopefully accept me. I don’t know much yet either.

EZRA New York? That’s awesome! I’ve always wanted to go there…

ROBIN Come with me.

EZRA Maybe I will.

There is a short pause between the two. ROBIN finally sits down next to him, and he brushes their face with his hand romantically. ROBIN takes his other hand in their own, pausing, but then suddenly pulls away, turning the other direction. We shouldn’t do this. What if someone finds out? A gay couple? At our school? God, imagine what they’d do to us…

EZRA Robin, we can’t always hide who we are. We can’t control who we are, and we shouldn’t have to. These are our lives, not everybody else’s. Remember that. They can’t control us any longer. We can’t be scared any longer. Okay?

ROBIN Ezra, I-

HAZEL storms onto stage proudly, hands on her hips, dressed in a fancy, formal dress and high heeled boots. Ta-da! Strikes a pose How do I look? EZRA and ROBIN smile at her.

EZRA Wonderful.

ROBIN Beautiful.

As these lines are said, MIA enters, in a pretty dress and high heels, matching HAZEL.

MIA Hazel! You look amazing!

HAZEL Thanks, darling! You too!

EZRA Mia! How’d you get here?

MIA Oh, your mom let me in.

EZRA Huh.

HAZEL Well, I guess we should head to the dance now! What do y’all think?

EZRA exchanges a glance with ROBIN and proceeds to nod at the same time as them I don’t see why not.

Lights go down as they all head off-stage.

END SCENE 11

Lights go up on ROBIN crying on one side of the stage, alone and walking toward center-stage. On the other side, EZRA looks around frantically, calling their name over and over again.

EZRA Robin! Robin! Roooooobin! hurrying across stage. The two suddenly collide, ROBIN catching EZRA in their arms. They steady him, still holding him.

ROBIN Ezra… I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to leave you there alone or to worry you or-

EZRA Hey, it’s okay! It’s fine! I’m fine. I was just worried about you. School’s ended, by the way, so we can go home if you want. Me and Hazel usually hang out at my house and- Don’t cry! It’ll be okay. I promise.

ROBIN How do you know? I just can’t take this! I can’t do this! I thought that I could, but then they showed up and-

EZRA I know because I’ve been there.

ROBIN Wait, what?

EZRA It’s true. I’ve been exactly where you’ve been. Can I tell you something that might be triggering for you?

ROBIN Yeah, go for it wipes away their tears.

EZRA When I was fourteen, I tried to hang myself. I’ve long since recovered physically, but it’s taken years of therapy and a couple hospital visits for me to recover mentally. I’m good now. I’m way better. Things have improved so much. I mean, I still have depression and anxiety and BPD and all that, but I can cope with it all now. I’ve worried the shit out of Hazel, but I’m good now. I can tell you that it gets better because it has for me. And you know what? I’ve still got the same shitty life at school and everything, but I’m the one who’s changed. I’m the one who’s learned how to deal with it.

ROBIN Really? All of that is true?

EZRA Really. I swear on my life. Now, if you’ll just hold on for a little longer, I’ll show you how to deal with it. As a good therapist I used to know would always say, it’s not easy. But it’s simple.

ROBIN You knew Dan too!

EZRA Yeah, I was basically a regular at the hospital for a few months before things started getting better. Dan helped me so much, and I’m glad that he’s been able to help you too.

ROBIN He certainly has.

EZRA So do you promise to hold on? Just for me and Dan, even if it’s not for anyone else?

ROBIN I promise. I swear I won’t do anything rash or make any stupid spur-of-the-moment decisions.

EZRA Thank you. Now, want to come to my house and hang out for a bit? My immediate family’s super supportive, I promise.

ROBIN Really? Sounds like fun! Beat as they start walking together You know, you’ve never really told me much about your family. I haven’t met them, but I guess I’m about to, huh?

EZRA Yeah, they’re great. I have a younger brother and sister who are twins, Harvey and Alex, and a baby sister too named Martha. My parents also super nice. Their names are Lila and Benji, if you want to call them by their first names. Um, I’ve got a dog too, named Daisy, but she’s, like, a billion years old. Both laugh.

ROBIN Your family sounds great!

EZRA Yeah, they really are.

ROBIN I wish my family were like that…

EZRA Well, it sounds like they’re trying their hardest. Never forget, miracles can happen.

ROBIN I know. It’s just hard.

EZRA Hey, at least you’ve got me and Hazel, right? We can be your family too!

ROBIN Yeah. I really do appreciate you both so much, you know that, right?

EZRA Of course! Now enough serious talk. Let me tell you about my room. See, I’ve got it set up all with a canopy bed and little nook underneath, and I only share it with Harvey, who gets the other half of the room, so I’ve still got a decent amount of space to hang out with people there.

ROBIN Oh?

EZRA Yeah, it’s pretty awesome. And I’ve got this awesome basement with like a couch and posters and all my DnD stuff down there. It’s where we spend most of our time at my house, although my room is considerably warmer than the basement, so sometimes during the winter, we go to my room instead.

ROBIN Cool.

EZRA And then- Oh, here we are! points and walks off-stage, grabbing ROBIN’s hand

Lights go down on the scene as they exit together excitedly.

END SCENE 10

Lights up on EZRA (with his crutches) and HAZEL walking through the halls at school, surrounded by STUDENTS. They walk past LEXIE and KAYLA, who look up from their phones and start laughing.

KAYLA What happened to you, Ezra? Broke your ankle? taunts, pulling lipstick out of her purse and applying it to her already pink lips. Yeah, I heard about your little incident.

HAZEL Just keep walking… mumbles, grabbing EZRA’s hand, but he stops, turning back to the LEXIE and KAYLA.

EZRA You were Robin’s friends, weren’t you? And you abandoned them, didn’t you?

LEXIE Come here, Kayla- I’m sorry, who?

KAYLA Lexie, I think she’s talking about Catherine-

EZRA Robin. It’s Robin, got it?

LEXIE Yeah, we were. Why do you care, you stupid, sinning homosexual? She pokes him in the chest.

EZRA Because… you heard what happened, didn’t you? Didn’t you?! EZRA sweeps her arm away.

LEXIE Yeah, we did. And you think we care? She’s going to hell too, just like you two. You know that, right?

EZRA Oh, stop it. You heard what happened, and you’re still doing this? They’re in the hospital because of you two! How could you- KAYLA shoves him, and he trips, falling to the ground.

HAZEL Ezra! rushes to his side. After helping him up, she faces the two girls. Alright, that’s it. I’ve gone far too long without saying anything. But you know what? I am sick and tired of your homophobia and transphobia and plain old bullying people! This has gone on far too long, and I’ve had enough of it!

EZRA Hazel, don’t-

HAZEL It’s fine, Ezra. Now, you two- stop laughing! What the hell?! This is a serious matter, and I will not have you-

ROBIN What’s going on here? ROBIN makes their way on-stage, standing in between the two groups of students. They wear oversized men’s clothes, including the same shirt that FATHER was wearing in the previous scene.

EZRA Robin! You’re okay! And-

ROBIN Yeah, I got out over the weekend. Um, what exactly is happening?

HAZEL Your old ‘friends’ thought they would pick on us again, I might say, and I’ve just had enough. I can’t take this anymore. So I’m done. Kayla, whatever the hell you think makes you cool, it doesn’t. Alright? And Lexie? Using religion for hatred? Seriously? I mean, what do you think that Jesus originally taught?! Hatred? No, he taught love and acceptance of all!

LEXIE But the Bible says-

HAZEL Yeah, it says a lot of things. You think it’s a sin to eat bacon? To wear clothing of two different fabrics? All of that? Yeah, I’ve read Leviticus too. I’m Catholic, too, okay? But you can’t just-

ROBIN Guys, really, this doesn’t need to turn into a fight. Let’s just go… stares in fear at their old friends

EZRA I agree. Hazel, come on.

HAZEL hesitates O-okay. Fine. But this isn’t over! The three start walking away, and KAYLA and LEXIE burst out laughing, shouting after them.

KAYLA Sluts!

HAZEL Leave us alone!

LEXIE You’re all going to hell! Laughing some more, she and Kayla walk off stage in the opposite direction of HAZEL, EZRA, and ROBIN.

ROBIN walks in between the two of them, nervous So… I know we don’t exactly know each other very well, but I’m really sorry for them. They’ve never exactly been good people, I realize now, but they’ve gotten so much worse ever since I… you know.

HAZEL Hey, it’s okay. We can take a lot more than a couple bullies.

ROBIN I know. Still… I feel bad, you know?

EZRA Besides, even though we’re not super close, we’re not complete strangers either. We used to know each other when we were kids, remember?

ROBIN Yeah… but you were super shy back then. Remember?

EZRA Yeah, good times. You were always, like, the one person who was nice to me. I’ll admit, I’ve always wanted to hang out with you, but it always seemed like you were a part of a different group than me. Namely, you had one, and I didn’t.

ROBIN Really? I’m honored. Well, I don’t really have a group anymore, I guess…

HAZEL Hey, you can join us! We’re just a bunch of losers, I know, but if you’re interested, and you and Ez already know each other…

ROBIN Really? You’d let me join you?

HAZEL Yeah, of course! You seem like a cool person!

ROBIN Thanks. In that case, I’d love to join you guys.

EZRA holding his hand out to them. Hey, uh, I was wondering… Would you… I mean, like, want to… uh… go to… the winter formal with me? You can totally say no. I mean, um, we don’t know each other super well, and you-

ROBIN Sure!

EZRA Really? brightens up immediately

ROBIN Yeah! I’d love to. I mean, um, you saved my life, and you’re really nice, and-

EZRA Cool! There is an awkward silence for a while as ROBIN looks away, pondering what just happened with KAYLA and LEXIE. EZRA eventually notices this and touches their shoulder, making them jump.

EZRA Sorry. Um, are you okay? You look pretty down.

ROBIN shakes their head to clear their thoughts Sorry. I just… It’s just… Sorry. You know, seeing my old friends and then… Well, it was…

EZRA Painful? Yeah, I understand. It’s probably pretty-

ROBIN And you’ve both been bearing this burden for so, so long, and… And you never said anything. You just let them bully you. And I just… stood by. Watching. How could I do that?

HAZEL Hey, it’s okay! We can take it!

ROBIN But you should never have had to!

EZRA It’s in the past now, Robin. It doesn’t matter anymore. We forgive you.

HAZEL Yeah. Besides, we should probably be heading to the GSA meeting about now, you know.

ROBIN GSA? What’s that?

HAZEL Well, it’s this magical, far-off land where the gays-

EZRA Hazel, shut up. It’s a club for people like us. People who are queer. We basically just get together and chill. It’s really nice because it’s, well, a place where we can be ourselves without having to worry about being made fun of. Everyone there is super nice too.

ROBIN That exists? That sounds awesome!

EZRA I know! Want to go there with us?

ROBIN Sure!

HAZEL Let’s go!

Lights follow them to the other side of the stage, where STUDENTS are gathered, all hanging out together, chatting and laughing and having a good time.

HAZEL Welcome to the GSA! proudly throws her arms out in a magnificent display. Mia! Hey, how you doing? flirtatiously

MIA Well, well, well. If it isn’t Hazel! I’m good! How have you been?

ROBIN frowns. What do we do?

HAZEL We sit! plops down right next to MIA, with whom she starts flirting with very obviously.

EZRA smiles Want to sit together?

ROBIN And do what?

EZRA Whatever we want to, within reason, of course.

ROBIN Alright. They sit down together near HAZEL and MIA, ROBIN helping EZRA to the ground and holding his crutches.

EZRA So, what’s up?

ROBIN Well, not much. I mean, I just got out of the hospital, so I’m probably pretty behind in homework, but it’ll be fine. Most of my classes are electives anyways. What’s up with you?

EZRA Honestly, not a ton. I’m just really glad you’re okay. I was seriously worried about you, you know.

ROBIN I know. I’m sorry for putting you in that position.

EZRA Don’t worry about it. The important thing is that you’re okay. And also that I’m almost done with these crutches. both laugh

ROBIN Really? You have only had them for a couple weeks, I thought?

EZRA Yeah, I guess it wasn’t as bad as they thought it was. The fracture was pretty minor, so I should be alright. Don’t worry about me.

ROBIN As long as we’re stuck in this high school, I’ll worry. I can promise you that.

EZRA You’re not wrong.

They sit in silence for a while as HAZEL and MIA talk, staring at each other with faint smiles.

HAZEL ...and then I was like, ‘Stand down, foul beast!’ And I went hyaa! and hyaa! gestures dramatically And the spider was dead!

MIA laughs Oh, Hazel! I’m sure it didn’t quite happen like that. What, did Ezra have to kill it for you again? Isn’t that what usually happens?

HAZEL No, but Ezra was at my side the entire time, cheering me on- notices the two Ezra?

Suddenly, HAZEL whistles loudy, making them both look away from each other, embarrassed, turning red.

HAZEL Look at the two lovebirds! STUDENTS laugh

MIA Awww! So cute! What’s the other one’s name again?

HAZEL It’s Robin! They’re pretty cool Beat. Like me.

MIA Of course.

EZRA Want to go somewhere else?

HAZEL proceeds to sing: Ezra and Robin, sitting in a tree. K-I-S-S-I-N-G.

ROBIN listens for a while, then decides, Yes.

HAZEL Ooh, finding somewhere more private, huh?

MIA Gee, I wonder what that’s for?

HAZEL Me too, Mia! Why, I’d almost think-

EZRA Oh, shut up, Hazel! groans, making everyone laugh, then grabs ROBIN’s hand Come on, Robin. Let’s get out of here.

ROBIN nods. Yup. Good idea. They help him up and they start walking out of the door when they’re interrupted by LEXIE and KAYLA, who strut towards them. Lights go down on HAZEL and the STUDENTS.

LEXIE Look who it is! God’s own little mistakes.

KAYLA I see you’re both getting all cozy, now, aren’t you? laughing

EZRA What the hell do you want now? growls, standing defensively in front of ROBIN

KAYLA Ooh! Your boyfriend is standing up for you, Cathy! Oh, wait. That’s not a real boy. That’s a girl in boy’s clothing who is obviously mentally ill and thinks that she’s a-

ROBIN Oh, shut up! shouts, pushing past EZRA and getting up in their faces Look. Mental illness is not something to joke about. It’s real, and it’s scary, and it’s-

LEXIE I know, I know. You’re one of them too, aren’t you? pretending to be sad for them

KAYLA Poor girl- boy? What even are you again? An ‘it?’ Look at it! Getting angry!

ROBIN lips quivering, speaks in a whisper Please. Stop.

LEXIE Aww! It’s sad now! fake-crying

ROBIN Leave me alone! pushes through them and runs off

KAYLA Ugh, it’s gonna go cry now, isn’t it? groans, rolling her eyes

EZRA holds his arm out to stop ROBIN, but it’s too late. He turns back to the two girls, angry. He opens his mouth to say something, but then closes it and goes after ROBIN as fast as he can.

LEXIE Run, Forrest! Run! laughs after him. They both pull out their phones and start texting.

KAYLA So. The winter formal is just three weeks away, and I think that those little pieces of shit deserve a special surprise, don’t you think?

LEXIE looks up from her phone with a smile. Oh, you are bad. This is too much fun! Too easy! What have you been thinking about, hon?

LEXIE Oh, I’ve got a few ideas. staring at the audience and then walking off stage, still texting. LEXIE follows her, doing the same thing.

Lights go down as they walk off stage.

END SCENE 9

Lights up on ROBIN and TYLER and PATIENTS and NURSES in a room with a table and pens, paper, and pencils. TYLER is coloring a picture, the NURSES are sitting nearby talking and drinking coffee, and ROBIN is writing a letter to EZRA. DAN and TARA are nearby, stage-talking to each other.

ROBIN Dear Ezra, First of all, thank you. My eyes have kinda been opened during the five days I’ve spent here, and I really can’t wait to get back home and see you again. I owe you my life, quite literally, and I really am starting to like you a lot. I know I’ve never really talked to you before that much since we’ve always been parts of different friend groups, but from the few times I’ve actually talked to you, you’ve always been super nice to everyone, and you’re funny, and… I don’t know where I’m going with this. Hmm. Well, thank you, is what I’m trying to say. Second of all, well, I dunno. I guess I’ll just tell you about my day today. In the morning, we did exercises, and then we have waffles for breakfast. They were really dry and gross, but I didn’t really care. I ate them anyways. Also, we had time for group with Dan again, and I really like him. He’s super nice and understanding, which is good, especially for a counselor. Anyways, I painted a birdhouse today. It’s green and blue, but it’s kinda ugly, but that’s whatever. Then-

NURSE with a phone Robin! Can you come here please?

ROBIN Uh, sure. They fold up the piece of paper and leave it in a box on the table. Then, they walk over to where the nurse is speaking on the phone.

NURSE Uh-huh. Okay. Sure. Goodbye! Yes, have a nice day. Okay. Buh-bye. hangs up the phone. Alright, sweetie! You’re leaving today as soon as your parents come to pick you up! Are you excited?

ROBIN Definitely! I’ve been stuck here for far too long. I need to see my friends again. I haven’t seen anyone since, well, since I’ve been here.

NURSE smiles. That’ll be good for you! I hope you have fun and never end up here again, right?

ROBIN Right.

NURSE Excellent. Well, it looks like it’s about time to head back to your rooms, but I’ll help you get ready to leave, Robin. Everyone else, put your things in your boxes and get ready to go back to your rooms. The NURSES stand up and stretch as the PATIENTS, including ROBIN and TYLER, put everything away and line up like prison inmates. Everyone marches offstage except for ROBIN and one NURSE, who digs through a box to find a pair of clean regular clothes for ROBIN. MOM and DAD walk into the scene together, distant to each other still, and give ROBIN a big hug.

MOTHER Cath- I mean, Robin! I’m so glad you’re okay.

ROBIN acts surprised and suspicious of the sudden change in their parents. Um, thanks. Hey, Dad.

FATHER Hey, kid. awkwardly with a small wave; everyone stares at each other for a while, but they then all start talking at once

MOTHER Hey, I’m sorry-

FATHER You know what?

ROBIN interrupts them both with a wave of their hand Hey, it’s okay. I understand. It’s alright. I forgive you both.

MOTHER exchanges a surprised glance with FATHER Honey, we’re going to family therapy now so that this doesn’t happen again. You’re welcome to join us sometime if you want.

ROBIN Looking back and forth between them I’d like that. And I think I want to go back to individual therapy again. It really was helpful and I don’t know why I stopped.

FATHER nods That’s a good idea, Robin. Thanks for… well, not hating me. Or either of us. I know you have a right to.

ROBIN shakes their head. Of course I don’t hate you. Although I hope you do realize, we’re never going to have that perfect family relationship. It’s kinda too late for that. It’ll take some getting used to each other, but I’m sure we’ll be comfortable with each other eventually.

MOTHER and FATHER both nod.

MOTHER We understand. Thank you. Awkward beat.

FATHER So… Robin… I bet you’re wanting to go home, am I right?

ROBIN nods. More than anything right now. Let me change first, and I’ll be right out.

MOTHER turns to FATHER after ROBIN exits Well, things are looking up, I guess.

FATHER I sure hope so

Lights go down as parents exchange a glance and freeze.

END SCENE 8

Lights open up on two people on the other side of the stage, a mother and a father, sitting on a bed and reading a note, crying. The MOTHER folds the note up and hands it to the FATHER, who pockets it. MOTHER wipes away her tears

MOTHER I can’t believe she- I mean they -tried to… you know. You know?

FATHER nods and holds her comfortingly. I know, dear. It’s my fault too. I can’t believe she did that. And that she doesn’t want us visiting.

MOTHER They.

FATHER They. Right. Sorry. Beat.

MOTHER You know we need to change, right? We can’t just raise her like we always have. Them, I mean. We need to do something. Like…

FATHER Family therapy. I read about it online. Maybe we should give it a try? Like, just us at first, but when they get back, they can join us there, if they’re willing.

MOTHER nods That sounds like a good idea. God… I can’t believe we’re actually agreeing on something.

FATHER smiles, nodding I know. Me neither. You know, no matter how terrible this situation is, I guess that there’s always going to be some good in it. Right?

MOTHER I guess so.

FATHER So… let’s search for therapists then, I guess. pulls out computer, starts typing; there is a long beat here Okay…

MOTHER There’s one! Nearby, too. Let’s check it out! Let’s book an appointment for this evening to see if we like them. They look friendly enough.

FATHER Sounds good. types some more and then closes the computer, standing up. They both put on coats and walk to the other side of the stage awkwardly, looking for the office, ad libbing parts here. Near them is a THERAPIST, sitting in a chair casually with a clipboard, writing notes. THERAPIST rips off a page from the clipboard, crumples it up, and tosses it behind them. At that moment, MOTHER and FATHER walk in awkwardly, unsure of what to do.

MOTHER Umm, hello? Mr. Johnston?

THERAPIST smiles brightly, standing and shaking hands of MOTHER and FATHER Please, call me Nick.

FATHER Uh, sure. Nice to meet you, Nick. We, um, we signed up for the 4:00 today?

THERAPIST Ahh, yes! Wonderful! Have a seat, both of you. Can I get you anything? Tea? Coffee? Water?

MOTHER Um, I’m good. Thank you.

FATHER Me too. Thanks.

THERAPIST Very well takes a sip from a mug and sets it beside him but continues to drink from it throughout the scene How may I help you today? This is our first meeting, so let’s start with introductions. My name’s Nick, and I am from here in town. I live with my partner in a small apartment, and I have two cats. One is named Lemon, and the other is named Tinsel. They’re very soft, and I love them. I don’t have any kids despite being in my thirties, but I love working with children as well as adolescents and adults. Your turn! Tell me your name and something about yourself!

MOTHER I’m Karen, and I… have a husband and one kid named Robin, who will hopefully be joining us next time. We have one dog, a border collie named Star. Um… I don’t know what else to say.

FATHER I’m Jim, and I work at the bank with the technology department in the city. I… I don’t know.

THERAPIST Excellent! You must both have very interesting lives, it sounds like! Now, let’s get into more of why you’re here.

MOTHER bursts into tears Um, it’s Robin. She-They, sorry, are in the hospital because they tried to kill themself. I’m afraid that it may have been partially my fault.

THERAPIST Oh? What makes you say that?

MOTHER Well, I’ve really only realized this recently, but I… I’m really not the best mother out there…

THERAPIST Go on.

MOTHER Well, it’s just… when they came out to us as transgender, I kind of freaked out a little bit. I may have raised my voice a bit, and I got a little physical with them. I also kind of shamed them for putting this on us… and… and…

THERAPIST Shhh. It’s all over now. What’s happened has happened. We can’t change the past, we can only try to move on from it and resolve things for the future. Jim, how did you react? What did you do?

FATHER Well, I’m afraid that I may be part of the problem as well. You see, I tried to convince them that they were wrong… and then I left the house for a long time.

THERAPIST Hey, everything’s alright. You said that they are in the hospital, right? Well, I know many of the therapists that work in the hospital’s psych ward, and they’re all wonderful people who will take good care of them. It’ll all be okay. Now, first steps from here. You did the right thing, seeking out professional help. That was very, very brave of both of you! I’m so proud of you two for doing it! Now, to address the elephant in the room: what to do when Robin- Robin, right? -comes home. Well, first, let’s see if...]

MOTHER and FATHER exchange a hopeful look, freezing as the lights go down.

END SCENE 7

Lights up on ROBIN and TYLER and DAN. The kids sit in chairs facing a whiteboard, while DAN paces intensely back and forth around the room. When he speaks, it’s loudly and with a very, very slight southern accent.

DAN Alright, kids, welcome to group. My name is Dan, and some of you might already know me. stares pointedly at TYLER Well, before I get started, there are a few things that you should know. For instance, I wasn’t always a counselor. I’ve been in and out of places like these until I was 27. I got here for all the same reasons as you have. Drugs, alcohol, self harm, depression, suicide attempts, bipolar, ADHD, ADD, you name it, I’ve done it. Now. When I was 27, my life was turned around by a guy named a-hole Dave. But I’ll get to more of that later. Let’s get started. You should also know, sometimes I swear, and I talk loudly. I know that I talk loudly, and it is because I am deaf in one ear, got it? glares at everyone in the room for a minute Also. With your teachers back home, you may have been able to get away with distracting the teacher by making them tell their life story or go on some tangent. Beat. That is me. I am that teacher. If you do so purposely, I’ll make you stay extra, got it? Good. Now, let’s actually get started. Today we’re going to talk about a little something called manipulation. Now, Tyler, will you pass out these blank pieces of paper to everyone, all two of you, so you can take some notes, please?

TYLER nods You got it.

DAN Oh, and the pencils too?

TYLER Sure.

DAN Thank you, sir. Now, you, Miss? May I ask who you are and what you did to get here?

ROBIN I’m Robin, my pronouns are they/them/theirs, and I tried to kill myself, but my… friend… saved me mumbles, hesitating at the word “friend”

DAN Oh, sorry. Not Miss then. Does Mx. work? Yeah? Awesome. My apologies. You know, I’m glad that your friend saved you.

ROBIN That makes one of us.

DAN I’m sorry to hear that. I do hope that you start to feel better here, you know.

ROBIN Thanks.

DAN You’re welcome. Now, back to business! Now, manipulation is ‘when I don’t get my way.’ It is what I do, how I react. Now, not all of these are manipulation, meaning that they’re not all negative, which is why I have a red pen and a green pen. Red is unhealthy, and green is healthy. Now, I don’t like the term ‘coping skills.’ Like, I used to use that all the time to get people like me now to shut up. Like, ‘what did you do to get better and make sure you don’t end up here again?’ ‘I used my coping skills!’ \ strikes a random pose, then stands normally, hand on hip, and rolls his eyes Listen, kids, it takes a conman to know a con, and believe me, I know all of them. So, we’re not going to use the term ‘coping skills.’ We’re going to call it a ‘fruit salad,’ for many reasons. One, fruit is good for you, so that’s even better. Two, no one likes everything in a fruit salad. Everyone has a favorite fruit, and some fruits are better for some people than they are for others. But just because you like one fruit doesn’t mean you get to stop eating all of the rest of the fruit in the bowl. No, you have to try again and again and again because tastes change, and people change. Get it? Also, I like fruit. Now, what are some things you do when you don’t get your way? Tyler, go.

TYLER Self harm.

DAN Self harm. Very good. I mean, not good. I mean, you know what I mean. This is one of the most common things I treat. Now, there are three parts to this. There’s ideation, thoughts of doing it; threats, when you threaten to do something; and there are actions, when you actually do it. Like it or not, everyone that self harms does all three of these. Either way, it’s not healthy. Next. Robin.

ROBIN Cry.

DAN Cry. Excellent. Now, I’m going to write that in both green and red. Do you know why I did that, Robin?

ROBIN No.

DAN I did that because crying can be healthy, or it can be unhealthy. It can be unhealthy, if you do what I like to call a ‘pity party.’ However, it can also be healthy, if you do it to get your emotions out and then get over it. If you can move on afterwards, it’s a hell of a lot healthier than if not. Next. Tyler.

TYLER Uhhhh… substance abuse.

DAN Very good. Substance abuse. Another of the most common things I treat. Let me tell you a story. When I was about 15, I tried pot for the first time, and let me tell you, it was one of the greatest feelings of my life. I was addicted for years. And you know who dragged me out of it? That’s right, A-hole Dave. But we’ll get to more of that story later. Next. Robin.

ROBIN Suicide.

DAN Suicide. Yet another of the most common things I treat. You know what? I’ve been where you’ve been. I wasn’t always a counselor, you know. See, I know what it’s like. I know what it’s like to feel hopeless and helpless and I know what it’s like to feel like all of this shit is piling up, more and more and more and suddenly, you’re overwhelmed and you can’t deal with it all and it feels like you’re the only person on the planet who feels this way and the only person who cares about yourself, and you don’t even know if that’s true either! Well, on those days, I want you to look back at all that crap and I want you to see my face staring back at you out of the middle of all of it because you know what? I care about you, damn it! He’s yelling by now, pacing back and forth intensely. I care! If you can’t stay alive for anyone else, not even yourself, then do it for me! Do it for me! And some days, we might be the only two people on this earth that care about you at all, but that’s two more than it could be. And you know what? Sometimes, I read the paper and I see that another one of you has committed suicide, and you know what? I cry. Yeah, I do. I cry. Because you know what? I wasn’t always a counselor. I know what it’s like to be where you’ve been. To be where they’ve been. And you know what? I know what it’s like to recover. To get better. After 27 years, it wasn’t easy. But it was simple. Questions? wipes away a tear that’s fallen down his face Let me tell you a story. The best counselor I ever had was the worst man I ever met. I called him ‘A-hole Dave,’ he was such a horrific person. Literally. Like, he was the most racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic man I ever knew. I can tell you right now that I voted for different people than him in our last election. I met him when I was 27, where I was practically dragged into the hospital kicking and screaming, and he sat me down and explained to me a little something called being willing to change. Now, how many of you have ever been told the whole “you won’t change until you want to!” thing because jeez. Of course you don’t want to change! That’s why you’re here! You’re here because you don’t want to change any of your bad behaviors, so that’s what ended you up here! Well, A-hole Dave knew that I’d been hearing that my whole life, so he told me a little something about being willing to change. Like, maybe for the life of you, you don’t want to change. But what’s important is to be willing and open to change. And you know why you should be? Yeah? Well, it’s because your way ain’t working! You’ve probably all heard the whole ‘take it one day at a time’ thing too, but here’s the crazy thing! It works! How do I know? Because it helped me, that’s how. A-hole Dave told me to try just one day completely sober, where I don’t drink anything at all, don’t smoke anything, none of that. And you know what? I tried it. And was I immediately cured and all better from all that shit in my life? No! It didn’t feel good! But here’s the thing: it didn’t feel bad either. For once in my life, I felt almost like a normal person, just for a little bit. So, I tried another day. And another. And next thing you know, I haven’t drank or done any drugs since I was 27! Was it easy? No. But it was simple.

Lights fade off as the lesson continues, into…

END SCENE 6

Sound/lights fade on on EZRA and HAZEL sitting together, on their phones, EZRA’s crutches nearby. HAZEL is sitting in a weird, vaguely uncomfortable position on the couch, being her funny self.

HAZEL Hey, Ezra. It’s already been like three days since the incident. How do you think Robin’s doing?

EZRA Well, I couldn’t tell you. I hope they’re alright though. Fortunately, they weren’t really injured, but I don’t know how that happened either. Someone- or something’s -watching out for them.

HAZEL You’re probably right.

EZRA You know, when they get out of the hospital, we really need to do something. I’ve always been kinda a bystander for just about everything, but it’s time to actually do something. We need to help them, the poor kid.

HAZEL nods Yeah… Maybe they’re into your nerd games like Dungeons and Dragons too! You can have another nerd friend!

EZRA Hey! They both burst into laughter, which quickly fades.

HAZEL I’m really glad that we’re at your house again and, like, mine or the hospital or something. Something about your house and family is, well, comforting.

EZRA Oh?

HAZEL Yeah, it’s just… I don’t really experience that a lot at my house, you know?

EZRA Oh.

HAZEL Yeah… We were at church the other day, and they were talking about how God loves everyone, and my parents were all, ‘Amen!’ and then we got home, and… and… It’s like they don’t even care about me! They started screaming again, and I couldn’t take it, and I screamed back, and then everything escalated a bunch and, you know. That’s why I like your house better.

EZRA Well, you’re always welcome here, no matter what.

HAZEL Thanks. Beat. So… My dad and I got into a fight again today before school.

EZRA What happened?

HAZEL Well, he made some comment about how he wished I were dead since I was gay, and I kinda yelled at him, and he, um, he hit me again.

EZRA Oh, God. Are you okay?

HAZEL shrugs I’ll be fine. But I’ve got a nasty bruise on my neck and quite a headache now. Don’t worry about it though.

EZRA I’m gonna worry, you know that.

HAZEL You know what would make me feel better?

EZRA He rolls his eyes. What? And don’t say me singing while balancing pillows on my head, like last time. We both know that that did not end well.

HAZEL Coffee and pie was what I was going to say, but that sounds equally entertaining. If you’re offering…

EZRA No. Nope. I am not.

HAZEL Okay, well, you can if you want to…

EZRA No thank you. You know what? How about that coffee and pie? Let’s go to the cafe! We can talk more about your crush on Mia there!

HAZEL turns bright pink. Well…

EZRA Let’s go!

Lights fade as they stand up and head off-stage.

END SCENE 5

The lights come up the stage, showing ROBIN sitting alone in a chair opposite of another empty chair on the side of the stage, and EMMA and TYLER sitting at a table on center stage, playing games and drawing. EMMA is a girl whose arms are completely covered with scars, some big, some small, some new and red, some old and white/skin-colored. She is very calm, happy even, and enjoys talking to TYLER, who is quite the opposite. TYLER is filled with visible anxiety. Next, TARA, in business casual attire, walks from offstage and seats herself in the chair across from ROBIN; she carries a pen and a clipboard, on which she takes notes during the conversation.

TARA So. It’s Robin, right?

ROBIN Yeah.

TARA My name’s Tara. I use she/her pronouns, and I like dogs. Specifically big dogs. What can you tell me about yourself, Robin?

ROBIN My pronouns are they/them/theirs, and, um, I like… um. I don’t know. is very shy and doesn’t make eye contact

TARA That’s okay! Sometimes we really need time to think about the question. So, before we’re done talking today, just let me know what it is that you like! I understand that especially with people that end up here, they often don’t even know themselves or have just gone through something traumatic and can’t really focus at all times. And that’s just fine. Dan will explain more about the difference between wanting to change and being willing, but I’ll let him get there.

ROBIN Okay. Who’s Dan?

TARA Dan is another one of our therapists here, and he’s really fun. I can’t even, like, describe him to you, he’s such a character. Anyways, tell me some more about yourself! What’s going on in your life right now? I’ve read your file, so I know the basics, but I don’t know anything specific, so catch me up.

ROBIN Um, okay. Well, uh, it all started a while ago when I first realized I was transgender. I finally had, like, a word for all of the experiences I’ve been having, and it felt amazing. I was so excited, I kinda came out really quickly to, like, everyone. My super Catholic friend, Lexie, told me that I’m going to hell, and my other childhood friend, Kayla, told me to just kill myself. Um, then there was my mom, who cried and asked why I would do this to her. And then, uh, my dad, who stayed up all night to convince me that I was wrong.

TARA Wow. I am so sorry that you had to go through all of that. That is completely terrible, and no one should have to go through what you’ve gone through. Surely you’ve had some good luck, right?

ROBIN Well, my, uh, friend… Ezra. He bought me my first binder. Beat. It’s a-

TARA Oh, I know what a binder is. I have multiple transgender friends. Are you wearing it now?

ROBIN Yeah… moves their sleeve to reveal a pretty mermaid-patterned piece of cloth that they are obviously wearing under their shirt See?

TARA Oh my God, that is so pretty! That’s amazing! I’m so happy for you!

ROBIN Uh, thanks. They say with a small smile.

TARA Well, you’ve got a lot going on right now, but you’ve clearly got at least one friend, right? That Ezra kid?

ROBIN I guess so, yeah. I’ve never really thought of him before like that, but yeah, I guess he is a friend.

TARA Awesome! I want you to think more about Ezra, but I have to go now and do some therapist-y stuff. You’ve got some time now to meet the other kids here, Emma and Tyler. They both stand and walk towards the table where EMMA and TYLER are sitting together. ROBIN pulls up a chair and awkwardly sits between them, unsure. Emma, Tyler, this is Robin. They’re our newest patient here. You still have some more free time today, but lunch will be coming soon. Bye! TARA exits, and EMMA and TYLER both stare at ROBIN for a long time, smiling comfortingly.

EMMA Well, I guess I’ll say something. I’m Emma. What’re you here for?

ROBIN I, uh, I jumped off of a bridge in an attempt to, um, end it.

EMMA Me too. Well, not jumping off of a bridge. I tried to kill myself too, is what I mean. I OD’d.

ROBIN What’s that?

EMMA Overdosed.

ROBIN Oh. Long beat.

TYLER Well, since you’re probably wondering, I’m here because I’m suicidal too, but I never attempted it. I’ve also got hallucinations and severe sleeping and eating disorders. Right now, I’m still here because we can’t find a medicine that will work properly for me yet.

ROBIN Um, don’t they all work the same way?

TYLER Nope. Some work for some people and some don’t. It’s really weird. People don’t give much attention to mental health, so information about it isn’t as widely known.

ROBIN Hmm… So, when are you guys getting out of here?

EMMA Well, I’m leaving tonight, so-

ROBIN Got any advice? Any wise words? Things to consider?

EMMA Let me think about it… I guess just listen to Dan. He’s great. Once you’ve heard him speak, your life will be changed forever. Seriously. He’s awesome.

ROBIN I keep hearing about this Dan person. Who is he?

TYLER Dan is a therapist here. He’s got, well, history, let’s just say. It’s not my story to tell you though.

ROBIN What do you mean “history?”

TYLER I mean, he’s certainly had his share of misfortunes and life experiences. You’ll understand when you speak to him tomorrow. And hell, after that, you may leave the day after tomorrow at the earliest!

ROBIN Really?

TYLER I mean, assuming they don’t do something weird with your meds like they did for me. Are you already on meds?

ROBIN No…

TYLER Good. They’ll probably start you on Zoloft or Prozac or something. That’s what they do for everyone. Except me.

EMMA Yeah, Tyler’s basically tried everything as some point. Nothing seems to work.

ROBIN Huh. What’s the longest that someone’s ever had to stay here?

EMMA Well, I asked the nurses that a couple days ago, and they said that it was about nine months. But I wouldn’t assume that you’d be here anywhere near that long.

ROBIN No?

TYLER No. Most people are out within three to five days at the most.

EMMA Yeah, you seem just like everyone else I’ve seen come in and out of here so far, and they’ve only taken a few days at most.

ROBIN Huh. Well, I guess that’s good then?

EMMA Yep.

ROBIN How long have you guys been here?

EMMA Today is my fifth day, and I’m leaving tonight.

TYLER I’ve got no clue when I’m leaving. It’s probably not very soon. Anyways, today marks a week here for me.

EMMA Yeah, we’ve both been here for a while. Anyways, I heard earlier from some nurses that we have some new kid coming in this afternoon. Some girl from far away that tried to hang herself. She was in the other part of the hospital for a few days but is being transferred here. I even heard that she was only twelve years old.

TYLER Shit, that poor child… Imagine being a suicidal twelve year old kid.

ROBIN How old are you guys?

EMMA Fifteen. You?

ROBIN Seventeen.

TYLER I’m sixteen.

EMMA Anyways, you never told us too much about why you’re here. You don’t have to, but I was just curious.

ROBIN Oh, um. Well, you see, I’m transgender. I’m nonbinary. Not a girl or a boy. My pronouns are they/them/theirs. So, I told my family and friends about it and- They notice their expressions. Wait, you’re fine with that?

EMMA My friend, I’ve been through enough that believing in other genders isn’t that far-fetched, you know? I don’t really care. Just tell me what to call you, and I’m fine with it.

TYLER I’m asexual and aromantic, so I’m part of the LGBTQ+ community too. I’m not gonna be any kind of gatekeeper, so you do you, I guess.

ROBIN Really? Wow. That’s awesome. I wish that my family and friends accepted me like that. Yeah, they didn’t. Instead, they told me to kill myself and asked why I was such a toxic, manipulating person for doing this to them.

TYLER Oh, ouch. My parents told me that I just hadn’t met the right girl yet. I guess you’ve got it worse though. That would be horrible.

EMMA Yeah, I’m so sorry you had to go through that. Surely you’ve got someone on your side, though? Right? At least one person?

ROBIN shrugs I guess there’s this one kid. Ezra is his name. Apparently, he jumped in the river after me to try to save me. He’s here in the hospital too, injured because of me. They sigh and look down.

EMMA Listen. We’re not allowed to touch each other, so just imagine that I’m touching your shoulder in a comforting way, okay? Okay. Well. It looks like you’ve found your new friend. Sometimes, life is lonely, and for some people, that’s a majority of their lifetime. But! We can’t be picky when it comes to loved ones. Just because he’s injured now doesn’t mean anything. He knew the risks when he jumped in that river after you.

TYLER Yeah. He cared enough about you that he put his own life in danger because he couldn’t stand the thought of a world without you. Have you ever thought of it like that?

ROBIN I… I guess I haven’t. I mean, still. It’s all my fault that he’s hurt now.

EMMA Who cares whose fault it is? We can argue about that all day, but lunch is almost here, and we have better things to do. What matters is that you’ve found someone who, despite all of the things that make you different from your average person, cares about you enough to jump into a river after you. Maybe it’s time to stop saying sorry and start saying thank you instead.

TYLER It’s so, so hard to accept people’s help. I know that firsthand. But, if you ever want to get better, and even if you don’t, you need to learn how to do just that.

ROBIN But-

EMMA glances offstage at nurses coming on with trays of food, one for each kid. Lunch is here. Let’s eat. We’re not allowed to talk to each other while we eat though.

ROBIN Why?

EMMA shrugs Don’t ask me.

TYLER We have to sit at different tables, too.

ROBIN Hmm. Okay. Fine.

EMMA Well, enjoy your meal.

ROBIN You too.

TYLER Ooh, cheesecake today!

As these last few lines are said, sound/lights fade out into…

END SCENE 4

Scene 3

Lights up on a hospital room on the side of the stage with two beds in it; EZRA lays on one and ROBIN on the other, both asleep/unconscious. A pair of crutches leans against EZRA’s bed, and he is connected to an IV. HAZEL is slumped over in a chair in between the beds, asleep with an open book on her lap. ROBIN and EZRA both wear hospital scrubs and are all bandaged up. ROBIN sits up after a moment, suddenly awake, breathing heavily. They glance around, panicked.

HAZEL yawns loudly and stretches, waking up slowly. She notices ROBIN finally. You’re awake! Finally! Are you up for good this time? I think they’re transferring you as soon as you wake up for good, but that’s just something I overheard.

ROBIN looks down and realizes where they are Wait, what happened? Am I- am I in a hospital?

HAZEL Yep! The finest in the area- and the only in the-

ROBIN Okay, okay, okay. What the hell happened? What am I doing here?

HAZEL Well, what all do you remember?

ROBIN Um, I remember the bridge, and then I fell, and then, well, there was nothingness after that. My lungs filled with water, and then I drifted off, like I was falling asleep. I don’t remember anything else. Where’s Ezra? Wasn’t he there too?

HAZEL looks at the other bed, where EZRA is still asleep/unconscious Yeah, um. Well. He jumped in to save you, but the river was pretty wild. He got a lot of water in his lungs, then he shielded you from this giant rock, and, well, here you both are.

ROBIN covering their mouth with horror Oh, God. I’m so sorry. I never meant to…

HAZEL Don’t worry about it. He’s already woken up temporarily for a little bit at a few different times, but he’s always fallen back into a deep sleep soon after. However, the doctors are convinced that he’ll be just fine soon enough.

ROBIN So he’s not injured from hitting the rock?

HAZEL Well, I mean, he broke a couple ribs and did something to his ankle pretty badly, hence the crutches over there, but, like, the doctors said not to worry about it. Honestly, this could have gone a lot worse for both of you, so I’m just glad you’re both alive. runs over, surprising ROBIN with a hug Sorry. Hugs are okay, right?

ROBIN Um, sure. So… what happens now? What about my parents?

HAZEL They’ve both been in at least once to visit, but they didn’t seem particularly, well, kind, so I avoided speaking with them all, but they did talk to Ezra for a bit earlier. Beat.

ROBIN How long have you been here?

HAZEL glances at the watch on her wrist Well, it’s about 9:30 in the morning, so… since yesterday?

ROBIN I’m so sorry that you and Ezra have had to go through all of this. I didn’t mean to cause anyone pain….

HAZEL Hey, it’s okay! Don’t apologize! You didn’t force us to do anything. We chose to try and help you. Don’t worry about it.

ROBIN Well, I’m gonna worry. Ezra is hurt and you had to go through a traumatic experience, all because of me. God, I can’t do anything right, can I? The last part is more said to themself than to HAZEL.

HAZEL Listen to me. You shouldn’t talk about yourself like that. It’s not your fault that the chemicals in your brain work the way they do. You didn’t ask to be transgender or for people to treat you the way they have. You-

ROBIN Wait, how do you know all of this?

HAZEL Uh, your parents brought the note here and-

ROBIN How the hell did I survive anyways?

HAZEL Well, according to the doctors, it wasn’t that far down, meaning that there wasn’t a terrible impact. I mean, you could have shattered your back, but luckily, you got off with only a few scratches and some bruised ribs. They said not to worry about that though because it could be a lot worse.

ROBIN Hazel, I am so, so sorry. I just-

HAZEL Hey! What did I tell you about that? It’s not your fault! Now-

NURSE walks in. Oh, good. I noticed the change in your heartbeat earlier and figured you must have woken up, so-

ROBIN sarcastically Great. What kind of trouble am I in now?

NURSE smiles comfortingly. You’re not in any trouble, dear. Now, if you’ll come with me, we’re transferring you to the psych ward for further observation. From there, you’ll-

ROBIN Wait, what? The psych ward? I’m not crazy!

NURSE Of course not, dear. It’s just that, well, you tried to kill yourself. We just want to help you get better!

ROBIN I’m just fine. I don’t need any help! Please, just let me go home. And besides, I can’t just leave Ezra and Hazel behind!

NURSE My dear, they will be well-cared-for here, I promise. Now, come with me. Do you need help up?

ROBIN No, I’ve got it. Thanks. crawls out of bed, getting to their feet.

NURSE Good. Now, we’ll just go get you all ready for them, and then we’ll go there. ROBIN follows NURSE off-stage after being helped out of bed, looking back as HAZEL leans over to take EZRA’s hand; NURSE and ROBIN have exited by now.

EZRA mutters in his sleep, then jerks awake suddenly. Robin! hunches over in pain Ow. My ribs. God- Hazel? You’re still here? Where’s Robin? sits up, holding his ribs

HAZEL smiles Don’t worry. A nurse just came in and took them to the psych ward to help them so that something like this doesn’t happen again. How are you feeling, by the way?

EZRA Like everything hurts.

HAZEL laughs Oh, you big baby. What were you dreaming about? You really woke with a start.

EZRA I just keep having nightmares of something happening to Robin again. I feel… I don’t know. Something. It’s just… I feel, like, drawn to them or something.

HAZEL Hmm. Want to try walking around the room again?

EZRA hesitates Sure. Help me up.

HAZEL grabs the crutches, helping EZRA out of bed and onto the crutches Ezra, how are we supposed to help them? I mean, look what we go through on a daily basis! It’s practically torture, growing up as a gay kid in small town Iowa. We’ve barely made it through high school, and we’re used to it. How’re they going to realize that they’re not popular anymore, that nothing is easy anymore?

EZRA I don’t know, to be honest. It’s going to be tough. We’re really going to have to be there for them. Let’s go.

HAZEL You know, I really hope that they’ll let us help them once we all get back to school.

EZRA Oh?

HAZEL Yeah. Beat.

EZRA So what’s up?

HAZEL Huh?

EZRA Anything interesting in your life going on? Other than this, of course. What I’m trying to say is, what do you want to talk about so that this conversation doesn’t turn out awkward. Like, again.

HAZEL Ohhhhh! I see. Well, um, what do you want to talk about?

EZRA Seriously?

HAZEL Seriously.

EZRA Well, you’ll have to tell Mia that our Dungeons and Dragons session is cancelled for tonight.

HAZEL What?! She can come here though! We love DnD! You’re not going to make us cancel, are you?

EZRA Sorry. It’s just, I’d rather not play here in the hospital. Besides, I might be getting out tonight, and then I’ll want to spend time with my family. Clara’s got a volleyball game coming up, and I’d like to be there for it, you know.

HAZEL Ah. Well. That’s fair.

EZRA Okay, okay, okay. I’m tired now. Help me back in bed, please.

HAZEL No problemo.

Lights go down as HAZEL helps EZRA back onto the bed.

END SCENE 3