Category: y2katalogue: The Tapes

The bell rings at Waverly High and students begin to roam the hallway. Milo and Jennifer walk out of the vocal room more exhausted than usual. They both walk to their lockers to get their books for the next class.

Milo: Why was that vocal class literal torture today?

Jennifer doesn’t answer. She hasn’t said much about anything most of the day. Milo looks over at Jennifer for an answer; he doesn’t bother her for one.

Milo: Like I get it, Quartets are must to test you on your music, but man… it was hard to watch.

Jennifer: Yeah.

Milo looks over at Jennifer; worried. He clears his throat, changing the conversation.

Milo: You’re heading to Algebra?

Jennifer: Yeah.

Jennifer shuts her locker door closed and begins to walk away from Milo. He watches her as she does. He sighs as soon as Nicki walks up to Milo and his locker.

Nicki: Still nothing?

Milo: Nothing. *faces Nicki* She hasn’t said more than 7 words in the entire day. I don’t think I ever seen her this depressed.

Nicki: I know; it feels so weird to see her not being herself.

Milo looks down the hallway, watching Jennifer turn the corner of it. It breaks his heart.

Nicki: *changes the subject* Are you going to practice in the West Wing during lunch today?

Milo: Maybe; I’m not sure yet. Why? Are you?

Nicki: I really should, but I’m worried about Pep. I have to get this last part of the piece down, but Pep’s our best friend and–

Milo: I’ll go to lunch and stay with her.

Nicki: Are you sure? I know you barely like going to lunch in the first place.

Milo: You have to practice, Nic. I’ll be fine and I’ll keep Pep company.

Nicki lets out a deep breath before the warning bell goes off.

Nicki: I’ll see you in band later; give Pep a hug for me during lunch.

Nicki runs away from Milo to make it to her next class on time. Milo closes his locker after taking out his Biology textbook.

Milo walks into his Biology class and sits in his assigned seat. Gwen, as always, is on time at her desk already with her books out. She looks up when she sees Milo sit down in his seat.

Gwen: *greets* Hey, Milo.

Milo: *smiles* Hey, Gwen. *looks at her notebook* Are those your notes for a project or something?

Gwen: *shakes head* Regents.

Milo: *shocked* School’s not even over yet!

Gwen: *giggles* Go figure, Sherlock. *sighs* With my extra violin lessons and doctor appointments coming up, I’m not going to have enough time to study for the test in a couple of weeks.

Milo: You probably don’t even have to study; you’re the only one that’s gonna ace this test.

Gwen shakes her head and laughs.

Gwen: Well to be on the safe side; I am going to study. *changes the subject* Are you going to the West Wing today? Our show is tomorrow.

Milo: *hesitates* Oh, uhm… I was actually gonna grab some lunch today.

Gwen: *shocked* Really? *teases* I didn’t think you even knew where the lunchroom was located.

Milo smiles at Gwen’s minor burn to him. She laughs, playing it off.

Milo: You know I have to keep everyone on their toes; I just feel like doing whatever I wanna do.

Gwen: Until it’s the day of the show and you’re freaking out because you didn’t prepare enough for it.

Milo shakes his head and laughs.

Gwen: But seriously; you’re not going to the West Wing today?

Milo ponders the thought for a moment.

Milo: I guess I can eat some pizza after school today.

Gwen smiles as the bell finally rings to start class.

…

It’s the start of the lunch period as most of the students head towards the direction of the cafeteria. Milo, on the other hand, begins to walk to the West Wing. He makes the hard turn of the corner and stop short when he sees Jennifer turn the same corner.

Milo: *surprised* Oh! Pep!

Jennifer stands there, looking at Milo.

Jennifer: Hey.

Milo: Hey; are you headed to lunch?

Jennifer nods her head and continues to walk towards the cafeteria area. Milo follows along.

Milo: Do you mind if I come with you?

Jennifer stops and looks at Milo; confused.

Jennifer: Since when do you go to lunch?

Milo: I didn’t eat breakfast today, so I’m starving right now.

Jennifer: *confused* … You eat breakfast?

Milo: Do you think I don’t eat or something?

Jennifer giggles; seeing her smile makes Milo happy.

Milo: *teases* Since you know the lunch menu so well; what’s on it today?

Jennifer: *disgust* Chicken patties.

Milo second guesses his decision of going to lunch with Jennifer. Eventually, the two teens get to the lunch room and grab their lunch trays. They both turn around and look for an empty space to sit. They begin to walk over to the usual table Jennifer hangs out at.

Milo: So, how has your day been going so far?

Jennifer: I would say that I can’t wait to get home, but I would rather sit in Global for 5 hours straight.

Milo: That’s… cruel. Did you talk to your mom after I left?

Jennifer: No. Why should I? Clearly she doesn’t care about my feelings or listen to anything that I have to say.

Milo: But she’s your mom–

Jennifer: *defensive* Who cares? She’s not acting like my mom right now, so I’m not gonna treat her like my mom.

Milo sighs, thinking carefully about what to say next.

Milo: I’m sorry that you’re going through this, Pep. I don’t know how you exactly feel, but I can understand how much this means to you.

Jennifer: *sigh* I just don’t understand why my mom would let him back into our lives. He left us all those years ago and thinks he can just walk back into them.

Milo: Maybe you should ask your mom; she might make things clear for you–

Jennifer: *annoyed* I don’t want to talk to her ever again.

Milo sighs, realizing this conversation is going nowhere.

Milo: Why don’t we go to the pizza place today after school? This lunch is depressing to eat.

Jennifer smirks at Milo’s comment. He briefly sighs out of relief.

Milo: It’ll also be on me today.

Jennifer: You don’t have to tell me anything else! I’ll be there.

Milo smiles as he takes a sip of his chocolate milk. Jennifer returns eating her school lunch.

Jennifer walks into her house and puts her bag on the ground near the door. The house is quiet for once. She looks around and calls out for her mom, then her younger sister. It wasn’t like the house had opportunity for it to be this quiet with two families living under the same roof.

Shortly after Jennifer enters the house, the front door opens once again; this time, it’s Milo.

Jennifer: Are you just now getting here?

Milo: *out of breath* We had dual major rehearsals.

Jennifer: Yeah, Nicki mentioned that at the pizza shop today.

Milo: I should’ve wrote you on AIM, but time just flew by.

Jennifer didn’t say anything else, she simply sighed.

Jennifer: Well, my mom and sister aren’t home yet; I guess she went to get Maryette at school or something.

Milo nods his head. Jennifer looks at Milo before changing the subject.

Jennifer: Remember that girl that came to our show that one time? She’s in your band class with Nicki or something?

Milo takes a moment to think.

Milo: What about her?

Jennifer: She came to the pizza shop; she said you put her on to the place.

Milo: *nonchalant* I recommended the place to her.

Jennifer: *stoic* Cool.

Milo: What are you trying to say?

Jennifer: Nothing; nothing at all…

Jennifer teases Milo; he catches on quickly.

Milo: What?!

Jennifer: Nothing! It just looks like this girl has a thing for you or something…

Milo’s face begins to turn red; he clears his throat before speaking.

Milo: Gwen is just some girl I work with in my band class. We’re in the strings section so I have to work with her with our music. And she’s also Nicki’s friend; it’s not like she only sees me as one.

Jennifer: *laughs* You don’t have to explain anything to me! The more you explain, the more guilty you seem…

Milo: I’m just making sure you know what the deal is.

Jennifer: *teases* I’m just saying, it’s not every day that a girl shows you interest.

Milo: *offended* What is that supposed to mean?!

Jennifer laughs at the banter. Afterwards, both teens turn to the front door when the lock is heard being opened. Jennifer’s mom and her boyfriend walk in; Jennifer’s expression changes.

Lydia: You guys are home early.

Jennifer: Nicki had cello practice…

Jennifer grabs her bookbag from the floor and walks past the adults. Milo, feeling uncomfortable, follows Jennifer upstairs. Once they get to Jennifer’s room, they drop their bags on the ground near her door.

Milo: You’re alright, Pep?

Jennifer: *annoyed* I’m fine, just wish there was a day where my mom isn’t with him…

Milo watches Jennifer pace around her room, doing things that don’t make much sense. He knows she’s just trying to keep her mind busy.

Milo: Pep?

Jennifer: *annoyed* What?

Milo: You just put your jacket in your trash can…

Jennifer looks down at the can in front of her; she indeed did toss her jacket into her trash. She sighs loudly, taking it out from the can and tossing it on her bed. Milo watches her.

Milo: I can’t speak for you, but I thought you would’ve been used to seeing your mom and dad together—

Jennifer: You’re right… you can’t speak for me because you don’t know how I feel.

Milo: I never said I did; I’m saying that they’ve been together for some time now—

Jennifer: *interrupts* Like I said, you can’t speak for me because you don’t know how I feel. Let’s just leave it at that.

The two teens go silent before starting their homework.

…

Jennifer, Milo, and Jennifer’s family sit at the kitchen table in silence. Milo is uncomfortable; he constantly looks at Jennifer to see if she’s okay. She’s not. Maryette is the one to break the ice.

Maryette: So me and Niko decided to try out for the flag football team at school. They thought Niko was a girl and I was the dude! I guess I play better than most guys on the team or something!

Lydia: *smiles* That’s great, honey! When do you find out if you made the team or not?

Maryette: Sometime next week I think. It’ll be cool if we actually got on the team together, then we’d get to go to all the away games together and hang out.

Lydia cocks an eyebrow as she eats. Jennifer looks at her sister before finally speaking.

Jennifer: More opportunities to kiss on the bus to those games–

Maryette: *defensive* That’s not true! Me and Niko are friends!

Jennifer laughs; Milo can’t help but smile.

Maryette: Just because you kiss Nate to your performances doesn’t mean everyone else does that!

Milo looks at Jennifer, unaware of this information.

Jennifer: *defensive* Shut up!

Maryette: Make me!

Jennifer: You don’t even know what you’re talking about, dumbass–

Maryette: I know you stalk his MySpace page!

Lydia: That’s enough!

Jennifer and Maryette stop talking; Milo is still shocked from the revelation. He looks at Jennifer; this time she looks at him and rolls his eyes. Lydia turns her head towards Justin.

Lydia: *to Justin* I’m sorry about this.

Justin: It’s okay, Lyd. Sisters are going to be sisters.

Jennifer looks at Justin and rolls her eyes. He notices.

Justin: *to Jennifer* Are you okay, Pep?

Jennifer: It’s Jennifer, or has it been so long that you forgot the name of your first born child?

Lydia: *stern* Jennifer Ann Castro!

Justin: *to Lydia* It’s okay. *turns back to Jennifer* I didn’t forget; I remember I picked the name ‘Jennifer’ after the character in Back to the Future. It was the movie your mom and I saw on our first date. She knew it was one of my favorite movies growing up so she rented the VHS at Blockbuster and brought it to watch it.

Justin smiles at Lydia; she’s smitten as well. Jennifer, on the other hand, is not having it.

Justin: Maryette was named after my grandmother, Maria Lizette.

Justin touches Lydia’s stomach, smiling as he rubs his thumb over her sweater. Lydia puts her hand on top of his. Milo observes; confused as to what is happening. Jennifer doesn’t look up from her plate to catch on. Lydia clears her throat before she starts to speak again.

Lydia: We wanted to talk to you girls about something important.

Maryette: What is it?

Lydia and Justin look at each other before looking back at the girls again. Milo begins to feel uncomfortable.

Lydia: As you both know, your father and I have been dating for quite some time. I know this hasn’t been easy for you two to adjust, but your father and I love each other very much and are happy to have found each other again to rekindle our relationship.

Jennifer wears a disgusted expression on her face; it doesn’t change as her mother speaks.

Justin: I’m hoping that I can have the chance to get to know you two better individually; perhaps during the summer break we can plan some fun activities and–

Jennifer: Why?

The table looks over at Jennifer, including Milo.

Justin: ‘Why?’

Jennifer: Yeah. Why all of a sudden do you want to get to know me and Mars better? I mean, shouldn’t you already know your own kids?

Lydia: Pep, please–

Justin: Jennifer, me going away 10 years–

Jennifer: *corrects* 11 years.

Justin: –11 years ago wasn’t because I didn’t love you or your sister–

Jennifer: *scoffs* Mars doesn’t even remember you! How is she supposed to know that her dad loved her when he left her as a baby?

Lydia: Jennifer!

Justin: *stern* It’s not as black and white as you think it is, Pep–

Jennifer: *annoyed* It’s Jennifer!

Justin looks over to Lydia as she lets out a deep breath; she looks a little queasy.

Maryette: Mom, are you okay?

Lydia: I’m fine, sweetie. *sighs* Girls, I know change can be scary and unpredictable. I know it’s been just the three of us for a long time, but trust me when I say that whether your father and I are together or not, the way we love you will never change.

Justin takes Lydia’s hand and holds it; his thumb rubbing the top of her knuckles. She takes another deep breath before looking at the girls. Milo’s eyes are glued on Jennifer, wishing he could comfort her the way Justin is comforting Lydia.

Lydia: *to Justin* I think that the five of us will be just fine in the end.

Milo scrunches his eyebrows; he immediately looks around the table. The girls seem confused as well.

Maryette: Five?

Jennifer: *worried* Five?

Lydia and Justin look at the girls.

Lydia: *smiles* We’re having a baby.

Milo’s eyes widen; he turns his head to look at Jennifer. Jennifer is devastated.

Jennifer: You’re what?!

Lydia: Pep–

Jennifer shoots up from her seat, furious.

Jennifer: Are you fucking kidding me?!

Lydia: *stern* Language–

Justin: Jennifer, just hear us out–

Jennifer: *to Lydia* How could you?! How could you allow this man to come back into our lives to complicate and ruin them! How could you do this without even talking to me and Mars about how we feel!

Lydia: Pep, please calm down–

Jennifer: *louder* And now you’re bringing another baby into this world with him?!

Justin: Jennifer–

Jennifer: *to Justin* Shut up! I don’t have to listen to anything you have to say! You are nothing but a deadbeat dad!

Lydia: *shouts* Jennifer Ann, that is enough!

Jennifer looks at the table; she quickly turns around and runs out of the kitchen. Milo gets up from his seat, running after Jennifer.

Before Jennifer can slam her door shut, Milo stops it from closing. He walks into the room as Jennifer begins to hyperventilate.

Milo: Pep–

Milo walks to Jennifer and puts his hands on her shoulders; she has a hard time taking steady breaths.

Milo: Pep; breathe.

Jennifer looks at Milo as she fights each breath. Milo breathes with her, helping her steady her breath. Once she does, she begins to cry.

Jennifer: Milo–

Milo pulls Jennifer in for a hug as she weeps in his shoulder.

Jennifer sits in the usual booth of the pizzeria her and her friends sit after school. She flips open her cell phone and sighs when she sees no incoming messages. She closes it and sighs. Moments later, Nicki enters the pizzeria.

Jennifer: Hey Nic!

Nicki finds Jennifer sitting in the booth, she waves as she approaches the booth.

Nicki: I’m assuming you already ate?

Jennifer: Your assumption is incorrect. I was waiting for Milo to finally show up since he was dying for me to try that Hawaiian slice *pretends to gag* but he hasn’t shown up yet.

Nicki: He had dual major rehearsals after school today. *questions* I thought it was with the vocal program?

Jennifer shrugs her shoulders.

Jennifer: Well it definitely wasn’t with the freshman choir. It sucks that he has these extra rehearsals just because he decided to take on two majors.

Nicki: Milo has always been into his music though.

Jennifer: *annoyed* Yeah, but I didn’t realize dude couldn’t have a social life anymore because of it.

Nicki: You’ll get used to it, Pep.

Jennifer sighs and drops the subject.

Jennifer: Where’s Danny? I’m surprised you guys aren’t joined together at the hip.

Nicki: *rolls her eyes* I have a life outside of Danny, for your information.

Jennifer: Like what? Watching reruns of Jeopardy?

Nicki sighs as Jennifer teases her friend.

Jennifer: Have you guys made it official yet?

Nicki: Pep! Can’t two people just get to know each other before deciding to throw a label on things?

Jennifer: *teases* Oooooh, so you guys are FWBs!

Nicki: “FWB”?

Jennifer: Friends with benefits!

Nicki’s face turns red.

Nicki: Absolutely not! I have some dignity.

Jennifer: I’m just saying; you like him, and he clearly likes you too—

Nicki: *nervous* You think so?

Jennifer cocks up an eyebrow, confirming her statement. Nicki sighs.

Nicki: Danny is too cool to like a nerd like me.

Jennifer: Nic, it’s 2007. We’re nearing the end of the new millennium! The jocks aren’t only with the cheerleaders and the musicians aren’t only with, like, the edgy girls. Danny totally likes you.

Nicki shifts in her seat; she seems uneasy.

Jennifer: What’s wrong?

Nicki: I guess I’m just trying to be okay with… you know…

Jennifer doesn’t know what Nicki is referring to.

Nicki: *sighs* Sometimes I feel like when Danny and I are getting closer to each other, it’s like we remember what happened between you and him and immediately back away. I know you’re over it, but–

Jennifer: Do you feel like you’re betraying me as a friend for liking Danny?

Nicki: *nervous* Is that how you feel?!

Jennifer: No, but I’m assuming that’s what you think I feel…

Jennifer sighs, taking a sip of her soda.

Jennifer: Nic, if I felt that way, I wouldn’t have had introduced you two in the first place. Yeah, Danny and I have a weird past, but I don’t allow that shit to get to me anymore. I have to move on in order to live my life, and Danny should do the same. It’s obvious he really likes you though.

Nicki’s face turns red. The door of the pizzeria opens; the girls turn around thinking it could be Milo. It was another guy from their high school. Nicki notices Jennifer looking a little bit longer than usual.

Nicki: Pep?

Jennifer doesn’t answer.

Nicki: *shouts* Pep!

Jennifer quickly turns face forward.

Jennifer: What?

Nicki: You have a thing for Nate or something?

Jennifer turns around once more to get another glance.

Jennifer: *swoons* His brown, curly hair is just so cute. Plus, he plays guitar.

Nicki: You definitely have a thing for musicians…

Nate turns his head and sees Jennifer looking. He smiles at her before she quickly turns around.

Jennifer: Oh god, he probably thinks I’m some weirdo now…

Nicki: He looked at you for two seconds, Pep; I don’ think he’d come to that conclusion in two seconds.

Jennifer: You’d be surprised!

Nicki shook her head in disbelief. The front door of the pizza shop opened again; this time, a girl enters. Nicki notices the girl.

Nicki: Hey Gwen!

Jennifer turns around and sees Gwen. Gwen awkwardly waves at Nicki. Nicki gestures Gwen to come to her table, in which Gwen slowly walks towards.

Gwen: *shy* Hi, Nicki.

Nicki: *to Gwen* Gwen, this is my best friend, Jennifer. Pep, this is my friend, Gwen.

Jennifer politely waves her hand to Gwen. Gwen returns the gesture.

Nicki: I’ve never seen you come to the pizza shop.

Gwen: Oh, Milo was the one that told me about it. I figured I’d come to get a slice on my way home.

Jennifer looks up when Gwen mentions Milo’s name. She looks at Gwen and notices the beanie on her head. It looks… familiar…

Jennifer: You know Milo?

Nicki: *to Jennifer* Gwen came to one of our shows, remember?

Jennifer can’t remember the memory.

Nicki: She also plays in Milo’s section in our band class.

Jennifer: Oh… Cool, cool…

Gwen stands there feeling awkward. Nicki clears her throat.

Nicki: *to Gwen* You’re going on the band trip this Saturday?

Gwen: Yeah! I gave Mr. Harrison my permission slip, I also reminded Milo that he need to get his in before the end of the week.

Jennifer: *interrupts, talking only in Nicki’s direction* I don’t think he’s going to that; he told me he was coming to my showcase in this city.

Gwen: Oh. He didn’t mention anything about being busy this weekend.

Jennifer side eyes Gwen’s comment; Gwen doesn’t seem to notice.

Nicki: I’ll see you tomorrow in band.

Gwen: See you.

Gwen walks away as Jennifer watches. Once Gwen is far away enough, Jennifer turns around to face Nicki.

Jennifer: Who the hell does she think she is?

Nicki: *sighs* Pep…

Jennifer: No, seriously! Who is she and why does she talk about Milo like she’s his secretary or something?

Nicki: What makes you say that?

Jennifer: *sarcastic* Oh, I don’t know; the fact that she clearly knows his agenda more than his best friend is a good start…

Nicki: Gwen’s just a girl in our class, trust me; Milo’s not looking at her like that.

Jennifer: *keeps going* And did you notice the beanie she was wearing? That’s the same beanie Milo always wears!

Nicki: Other people own that hat too, Pep; Milo bought it in Hot Topic for God’s sake–

Jennifer watches Gwen leave the pizza shop through the front window near their booth. Jennifer is uneasy. Nicki begins to get up from the booth.

Jennifer: You’re leaving already?

Nicki: I have cello lessons at 4:30; you know that.

Jennifer rolls her eyes.

Jennifer: I guess all of my friends are just too good to hang out with a vocal major.

Nicki: Pep, we hang out every single hour of the day, there can’t be that much gossip to discuss in a day–

Jennifer: Of course there is! We’re high school girls!

Nicki laughs as she says goodbye to Jennifer. Jennifer sighs as she sits n the booth alone; a first for her.

The bell rings at Waverly High and the students begin to go to their next class of the day. Milo takes out a huge binder from his locker; Jennifer looks at the binder in shock.

Jennifer: Dude, do they have you guys playing The Ten Commandments or something?

Milo: *confused* The Ten Commandments is not a piece of music; you do know that, right?

Jennifer: Well your binder looks as big as the book itself.

Nicki: *intervenes* Pep, The Ten Commandments is roughly about 210 pages; perhaps you are talking about Tolstoy’s War And Peace?

Jennifer: *confused* Toy Story?

Nicki: *disbelief* Leo Tolstoy, author of War and Peace…

Jennifer doesn’t seem to understand; Nicki sighs and looks at Milo, pointing at the binder.

Nicki: Is that binder all for one class, Milo?

Milo: It’s my dual major binder. I don’t bother carrying it around anymore because it’s literally like walking with a brick inside my bookbag.

Jennifer: Why don’t you just have two separate binders for each major?

Milo: Because I never know if I’m going to need both pieces of music for a rehearsal!

Jennifer rolls her eyes and Nicki takes out her binder from her locker; it’s noticeably smaller than Milo’s.

Jennifer: That is a reasonable sized binder; look what you could be potentially be bringing to your band class compared to the cinderblock you currently have.

Milo: *deadpans* Haha.

The bell rings and the friends say their goodbyes; Nicki and Milo walk to the band room at the end of the hall.

Nicki: I’m glad to see you and Pep on good terms after all this time.

Milo: Yeah, you know how I feel about Pep. I don’t like being mad at her for too long.

Nicki stops mid-walk; Milo follows.

Nicki: Don’t let that cloud your judgment either, Milo.

Milo: Whatcha mean?

Nicki: I mean don’t be so intense when it comes to Pep. You already know that she’s gonna do whatever she pleases and you can’t let that mess up your mood or your friendship with her.

Milo: *sighs* I know, Nic. I just wish sometimes she had better judgment so that I’m not out here running around like a chicken with its head cut off.

Nicki: Be her friend, Milo, not her guardian.

Milo: Easier said than done, Nicki.

Nicki: I’m just saying that Pep is never going to change her ways; you of all people should know this.

Both teens walk into the band room as their bandmates get ready for the period to start. Milo glances over to Gwen; he waves at her as she waves back. Nicki observes the two.

Nicki: You and Gwen are friends?

Milo: *nervous* Uhm… yeah, we both recognized each other from band when we were put into the same Biology class too.

Nicki: Oh. That’s… interesting.

Milo turns his head to now look at Nicki; confused.

Milo: What?

Nicki: Nothing, it’s just that she’s… not a girl any of the freshman would be in classes with. She’s the smartest person in our grade.

Milo: *annoyed* What’s that suppose to mean?

Nicki: Exactly what I meant; you’re probably in the wrong Biology class if you’re taking it with her.

Milo rolled her eyes as the two teens went to their sections of the class. Milo sits next to Gwen, again smiling at her.

Milo: Nice hat, Gwen.

Gwen: Thanks; the fluffy scrunchie adds some volume to your hair.

Gwen laughs as she teases Milo.

Milo: How’s your day been so far?

Gwen: Well, I have a midterm in my Math B class tomorrow and the review was… unendurable, to say the least.

Milo: Sheesh, Math B sounds like it’s no joke–

Gwen: *teases* You can borrow my notes when it’s your turn to take it.

Milo: At least I know I’ll pass.

Gwen rolled her eyes and shook her head.

Milo: Whatcha doing after school today? Well, besides studying for your midterm.

Gwen: Well, something tells me you’re looking to hang before I drown myself in my studies.

Milo smiles at Gwen’s cheeky remark. The teacher quiets the class down before he starts his class.

Mr. Harrison: Good afternoon, everyone. Before we start today’s class, please remember to have your permission slips for the philharmonic performance no longer than Friday. We are leaving for the performance the following morning and will not be taking anyone with a permission slip in their hands the day of.

Milo looks at Gwen, focusing on what the teacher is talking about. Milo decided to do the same.

Mr. Harrison: Of course, you are not obligated to participate in this performance. As a freshman class, you are allowed one show that you choose to not attend; only one. If you are thinking about not attending, come see me after class.

Milo: *to Gwen; whispers* You’re gonna go?

Gwen nods her head.

Gwen: I already gave Mr. Harrison my permission slip.

Milo cocks his eyebrows up, surprised that Gwen is on top of things. He looks at his unsigned permission slip still in his binder.

Mr. Harrison: Those who are dual majors; this is your reminder that you must be present for today’s rehearsal after school with the vocal program.

Milo sighed as he writes a reminder down in his notebook. Gwen notices.

Gwen: Dual major duty calls.

Milo: Of course when I finally decide to make plans after school…

Gwen tussles Milo’s hair.

Gwen: You have to do what you have to do. We can reschedule for another day.

Milo turns around to look at Gwen. She reassures him with a smile. He returns the smile. Looking from the back of the classroom, Nicki notices the two teen’s banter.

Milo runs down the block with his bookbag on his back and his instrument case in his hand. He makes a hard turn and runs up the next block; the block that Jennifer and her family live.

He runs up the front steps and knocks on the door. Lydia, Jennifer’s mom, opens up the door. Milo is visibly out of breath.

Lydia: Milo?

Milo: Hi, Ms. Lewis; I lost track of time at our band rehearsal after school.

Lydia cocks up an eyebrow. She sighs.

Lydia: Don’t let it happen again, solely because I don’t want to have to explain to your parents where their son was all day.

Milo: I’m sorry; it won’t happen again.

Lydia opens the door and lets Milo in. He gently drops his instrument case on the ground and walks upstairs towards Jennifer’s room. He sees Jennifer laying down flipping through a magazine. She looks up from the magazine briefly to look at Milo; she rolls her eyes.

Milo: Hey, Pep.

Jennifer doesn’t say anything back. Milo sighs and pulls the desk chair to sit down near the bed.

Milo: Can we talk?

Jennifer: There’s nothing to talk about…

Milo: Pep.

Jennifer sucks her teeth and forcefully closes the magazine.

Jennifer: What do you want me to say? I’ve said everything I needed to say and clearly that wasn’t enough for you.

Milo: Look, I’m sorry for the way that I acted.

Jennifer cocks an eyebrow; not convinced.

Milo: I’m being serious. You had your reasons for doing what you did, and they are valid whether or not I agree with them or not.

Jennifer: I just don’t understand why my word wasn’t enough in the first place. Yes, I had my reasons for not telling you, and that’s not because I don’t value you as my best friend or something. I just knew that you wouldn’t have took it lightly and honestly I just wanted to forget it even happened.

Milo: I know, and I’m sorry for what I said about you not being a good friend and all that nonsense when I was angry. *reflects* I’m glad that Danny was able to help you out in that time of need. I guess he’s not as bad as I thought he was.

Jennifer: Do you think I’d set Nicki up with someone that I knew was a complete asshole?

Milo: *guilty* No.

Jennifer: Exactly… *sighs* But I know you were just looking out for me in the long run and… I can’t be mad at someone that actually gives a shit about me.

Jennifer gets up from the bed to sit at the corner. She prompts Milo to sit next to her. Milo smiles at the gesture.

Milo: We’ve been best friends since pre-school, Pep. You were the first person to stick up for me and have my back when I was too shy to stick up for myself. Plus, you actually wanted to be friends with me for me. Our friendship not only means a lot to me, but you also mean a lot to me.

Jennifer smiles and sighs, adjusting in her seat. She’s now relaxed and comfortable.

Jennifer: You mean a lot to me too, and again I’m sorry if I’ve been on the edge lately and snappy and all of that. I feel like everything around me is changing and I guess I’m just scared of us changing.

Milo: We’ll never change. I promise you that.

Milo gives Jennifer a hug to solidify their friendship. Once they release from the hug, Jennifer plays with the ponytail Milo has in his hair.

Jennifer: Why do you have your hair in a ponytail?

Milo: *nervous* Oh, I, uh, wanted it away from my face for once.

Jennifer: *teases* It makes you look like you have a huge head.

Jennifer laughs as Milo nudges her on the shoulder. All is well between the two best friends.

Jennifer: So, I meant to tell you this before we started fighting, but my Spring recital is next week. I asked Nicki but she’s going away for Spring Break with her family, so I wanted to see if you wanted to come.

Milo: Of course! I wouldn’t miss one of your dance shows for the world.

Jennifer smiles at Milo; Milo mirrors her. They both continue to hang out in Jennifer’s room, catching up on everything that they’ve missed these last couple of days.

After Milo and Gwen grab a slice of pizza from the local pizza parlor, they walk down a suburban block; Milo isn’t familiar with the area. Gwen walks with Milo and stopping in front of a house. Milo observes the outside of the house, noticing the treehouse out front.

Gwen: Here we are.

Milo: Whoa…

Milo looks at the house in awe; he’s not used to seeing the pretty houses in Brooklyn.

Gwen: *giggles* Come on.

Gwen opens the front gate and enters the vicinity of the house. She walks over to the tree in her front yard, climbing the ladder attached to the tree trunk. Milo watches her as she reaches the treehouse.

Gwen: *looking down* Climb up!

Milo: *nervous* Are you sure?

Gwen: *teases* Is Milo afraid of heights?

Milo: *defensive* How can you ask a question like that?!

Gwen laughs as she sticks her head back int the treehouse.

Milo: Gwen?

Gwen doesn’t answer back. Milo lets out a deep breath and starts to slowly climb up the ladder. Once he reaches the treehouse, he sees Gwen lookin at him; she laughs.

Gwen: Took you long enough.

Milo rolls his eyes as he takes in his surroundings. In Gwen’s treehouse, there’s built-in bookshelves full of different novels. Blankets over the bottom of the floor and fairy lights surround the ceiling. Milo looks at Gwen.

Milo: Is this your secret hideout?

Gwen: It’s not so secret if my parents built it for me.

Milo: *shocked* They built this?

Gwen: *nods head* It was my birthday gift when I turned 13. I always wanted a treehouse, and I guess asking my parents for a treehouse for my birthday each year paid off.

Milo laughs. He notices some binders on top of one of the shelves; he takes one off.

Milo: You do your homework in here or something?

He flips through the binder; it’s all sheet music with different notes on the margins of the pages.

Gwen: I practice up here.

Milo: You have room to do that here?

Gwen: *laughs* Clearly. Before getting into Waverly, I practiced my audition piece up here day and night. Of course, I had to stop on some nights once the neighbors started to complain hearing the same five chords over and over again.

Milo laughs as he skims through the binder.

Milo: You take this very seriously.

Gwen: Don’t you?

Milo looks up at Gwen; he doesn’t say anything right away.

Milo: Y-yeah. I do.

Gwen: That wasn’t very convincing. Thankfully, you’re not a drama major.

Milo chuckles, then sighing before he speaks.

Milo: I enjoy playing the violin, but if I had to choose which major I enjoy more–

Gwen: *disappointed* You’d pick vocal…

Milo: *tries to explain* I really do enjoy being in band, don’t get me wrong–

Gwen: You just prefer vocal; that’s okay.

Awkward silence between the two teens.

Milo: It’s not that I prefer it, it’s just something I’ve done longer so I feel like I’m better at it.

Gwen: But you’re a dual major; obviously you had to be great in your band audition for you to get into the–

Gwen stops mid-sentence. She sighs once she puts it together.

Gwen: … the strings section, which is currently the least competitive part of the band program. *awkwardly laughs* I guess that’s why you’re so laxed in band.

Milo: The program has potential to be great… it’s just a matter of if everyone else in the section wants to be great.

Gwen: *defeated* You can’t persuade people in doing something they don’t want to do.

Milo scrunches his eyebrows together, feeling a type of way about Gwen’s perspective on things.

Milo: I know you can turn this program around with your talent.

Gwen: *scoffs* Yeah, okay.

Milo: *annoyed* Take credit where its due, Gwen. You work super hard for your position in the strings section and honestly, you’re way better than even those in the dual major program. You have the opportunity to turn this program around!

Gwen fidgets with her hair; she looks sad.

Gwen: Yeah… I guess…

Milo: *optimistic* And by the time we graduate in 2010, you’d be voted as the best violinist in our grade on top of being the valedictorian.

Gwen: Yeah…

Milo notices Gwen’s body language shift.

Milo: Are you okay?

Gwen: Yeah, yeah; I’m fine.

Milo isn’t convinced.

Milo: Was it something I said?

Gwen: No, it’s…

Gwen shifts in her seat and sighs. She pulls the long, black locks off of her head, revealing her short, blonde hair.

Gwen: I haven’t been honest with you, Milo.

Milo: *confused* About what?

Gwen tosses the black hair wig toward Milo.

Gwen: About this.

Milo: I’m… lost.

Gwen: Milo, you talk so freely about the future and all of the things you want to do. You talk about college and where you’ll be when we’re seniors and… it must be nice to actually know that those things will eventually happen for you.

Milo: Those things can easily happen to you too, Gwen–

Gwen: *mumbles* They can’t.

Milo looks at Gwen; not comprehending what Gwen is saying.

Milo: Why can’t they happen to you?

Gwen looks back up at Milo, hesitant to say anything.

Milo: You can trust me.

Gwen: I know, which is why talking about this makes it even harder…

Milo puts his hand on Gwen’s shoulder for support, sporting a smile for reassurance. Gwen lets out a deep breath after gaining back her composure.

Gwen: I have cancer.

Milo looks at Gwen; holding his breath. He doesn’t know what to say. Gwen knows this.

Gwen: I started to lose my hair because of the treatment I was on. That’s why I wear this wig; it makes me feel a little bit normal while experiencing something that’s not normal in the slightest.

Milo still can’t find the words to say. He continues to look at Gwen, hoping she would continue to speak.

Gwen: I will always let those I care about celebrate and anticipate their futures; it’s motivating and inspirational–

Milo: You will get to do all the thigs you plan to do in the future.

Gwen: *smiles* Thanks, Milo. I’ve already come to terms with the idea that while I still have so much left to do, there will be a time that I won’t. That’s okay.

Milo looks disheartened. Gwen notices; it’s her that touches his shoulder for comfort.

Gwen: Thank you for not completely freaking out or feeling sorry for me. That’s the one thing I hate when I tell people; they start treating me as if this is my last day to live and it’s like, dude; I’m not dying just yet!

Milo: *laughs* I feel like that’s just people’s natural reaction to news like this. They think they’re being sympathetic but really it’s degrading in a way.

Gwen: Exactly that. Like sure, my hair is thinning and people only associate that with cancer, but please treat me like I am just a normal teenager.

Milo looks down at the wig and back to Gwen. He smiles as he takes off his beanie and puts it on Gwen’s head. She looks at him confused.

Milo: Wear it. A hat is much more comfortable than an itchy wig. *recalls* I mean… the hat looks good on you.

Gwen laughs and smiles. She looks around and reaches for a hair scrunchie on top of one of her shelves. She hands it over to Milo.

Gwen: Just so that your hair isn’t always in your face now that your beanie is off. *smiles* You look nice with your hair pulled back anyway.

Milo blushes as he takes the hair scrunchie; he looks in Gwen’s tiny compact mirror and ties his hair with it. He likes it.

Milo: Thanks, Gwen.

Silence fills the space in the treehouse. An older woman is heard calling out Gwen’s name from outside.

Gwen: *nervous* Shit–

Gwen shoves Milo’s head closer to the floor of the treehouse, making him undetectable from down below. Gwen pokes her head out of one the windows. The woman’s voice seems to be her mom, Phoebe.

Phoebe: It’s time for dinner! Plus, it’s getting chilly out here! It’s time to call it a night up there.

Gwen: Alright mom, be down in a second!

Gwen turns her head back around, looking at Milo. She laughs at the contortionist-like position he currently is. She helps him get up.

Milo: Didn’t know my body can do that.

Gwen: *teases* Definitely dance major worthy, but then they would have to make you a triple major.

Milo laughs at Gwen’s joke.

Milo: A dancer… *realizes* Oh shit, I gotta get going!

Gwen: Late for dance rehearsal?

Milo gathers his things quickly.

Milo: Late for curfew; I’m staying with Pe– a family friend while my folks are out of town. I don’t need this to go back to them.

Gwen: Oh! Go, go!

Milo begins to get ready to leave the treehouse through the ladder. before he goes down, he gives Gwen a hug. It shocks Gwen.

Gwen: What was that for?

Milo: For trusting me with your story.

Gwen smiles at Milo; he returns it back and begins to climb down the treehouse ladder.

Milo rushes into the band room, looking around to see if Nicki was sitting in her assigned seat. He sees the back of her head and immediately walks in her direction.

Milo: *stern* Nicki–

Milo stops once he sees Nicki is sitting with Gwen, now also looking up toward Milo.

Milo: *shy* H-hey.

Nicki: Hey, Milo; everything alright?

Milo lets out a breath before answering. He takes a quick glance at Gwen before looking over at Nicki again.

Milo: Yeah, everything’s fine.

He looks at Gwen one more time before walking away, going toward his seat. He shuts his eyes before letting out a deep breath. He open his eyes as he sees Danny walk into the class. Aggravated, he takes out his books and instrument as class begins.

…

The bell rings, which ends band class for the day. The other students start to pack their bags to leave the classroom. Milo hangs around, in which Mr. Harrison looks at him.

Mr. Harrison: Class is over, Milo…

Milo: Is it okay if I just practiced some more? It’s my lunch period and just wanted to practice this piece for the showcase…

Mr. Harrison: That’s why we have rehearsal rooms in the West Wing. I can’t keep you in here without a teacher being present.

Milo sighs as he gets up from his seat, gathering his things and leaving the room. Once he gets out of the room, he notices Gwen standing near the door.

Milo: *surprised* Gwen!

Gwen: Hey, Milo.

Milo: You were waiting for me to get out of class?

Gwen: I wanted to check on you more than anything. Are you okay?

Milo and Gwen start to walk down the hallway toward the West Wing.

Milo: Yeah, I’m okay…

Gwen: Don’t lie to me.

Milo stops in the middle of the hallway and looks at Gwen. She doesn’t budge.

Gwen: I saw how you looked at Nicki when you came into the class. You definitely looked like you were upset about something.

Milo raises an eyebrow, still looking at Gwen.

Milo: You’re right. I needed to talk to Nicki about… something.

Gwen: *questionable* Something?

Milo: Yeah. Nothing you need to worry about.

Milo smiles and starts walking again. Gwen follows Milo; he looks at her with the corner of his eye. He stops once again, which prompts Gwen to also stop.He can’t help but smile.

Gwen: What?

Milo: Nothing, I’m just… surprised you want to hang out with me involuntarily.

Gwen: *embarrassed* Oh, uhm.. I’m sorry–

Milo: You don’t need to apologize. I just figured you’d go to lunch and hang out with your friends…

Gwen looks at Milo, seeming uncomfortable. Milo takes note of Gwen’s body language.

Milo: Do you always have lunch by yourself?

Gwen: If you’re asking me if I have any other friends to eat lunch with, the answer is usually no.

Milo: *embarrassed* No, I didn’t mean it like that I–

Gwen started to giggle, which made Milo sigh in relief.

Gwen: I don’t really know a lot of the freshmen besides those in our band class. Most of other classes have upperclassmen, so I’m usually just eating lunch by myself.

Milo looks at Gwen intently as she speaks.

Gwen: Or, I’m in the West Wing. *teases* Don’t you have friends to eat lunch with?

Milo rolls his eyes and lets out a sigh.

Milo: I’m not on the best of terms with my friends right now… *looks at Gwen* They all kept this huge secret from me about my best friend and I’m just annoyed with them.

Gwen: I’m guessing that’s what you were trying to speak to Nicki about in class today.

Milo: *defeated* Yeah. Nicki and I have this friend… well, my best friend, who kept this huge secret from me and only told Nicki and her boyfriend. It just pissed me off since this girl is suppose to be my best friend–

Gwen: The other girl in your band; is she the best friend in question?

Milo nods his head. He looks at her; shocked she remembers his friend group.

Milo: Yeah. I just feel betrayed, that’s all. But, I’m glad that you were sitting with Nicki in class today… I feel like you saved me from blaming something on her that she had nothing to do with, you know?

Gwen: *shocked* Oh! Well, I’m glad I can keep you grounded.

Gwen smiles, which makes Milo smile.

Milo: Whatcha doing after school today?

Gwen: I don’t do much after school besides do my homework and practice.

Milo: *teases* Gwen, live a little! It’s the last day before spring break starts! Let’s do something after school; something that’s not related to band or school.

Gwen: *nervous* What would we even do?

Milo: Anything we want; go to the park, catch a movie or something, get a slice of pizza. It’s totally up to you.

Gwen ponders on the thought. Before she can answer, a teacher calls out to the two teens left in the hallway. They both continue to walk toward the West Wing, side by side.

Milo walks out of his house with an overnight bag; not enthusiastic whatsoever. His mother walks out of the front door, closing it behind her.

Milo: I still don’t understand why I can’t just say home–

Eloise: We had this discussion countless times already; you are too young to stay home by yourself for a week…

Milo: I’m 15, mom!

Eloise: And no 15-year-old should be left on their own for a week, and that’s that!

Milo sucked his teeth as he and his mom crossed the street and began to walk up the front steps of Jennifer’s house.

Eloise: Seriously Milo, what has gotten into you lately? You’re staying with Jennifer and her family; this isn’t the first time you done so…

Eloise knocks on the front door; Milo loudly sighs. The front door opens; Jennifer’s mom, Lydia, is the one that answers the door.

Eloise: Lydia!

The two ladies greet each other and hug.

Lydia: Where are you and your husband going this time?

Eloise: Just a quick conference in the Chicago area; we should be back in a couple of days.

Lydia looks at Milo and smiles. He politely smiles back.

Eloise: Thank you again for caring over Milo while we’re away, Lydia.

Lydia: Milo knows he’s always welcomed here.

Milo politely smiles; removing it once no one is looking. Lydia opens the door, letting Milo into the house. After saying goodbye to Eloise, Lydia closes the front door behind her.

Lydia: You can leave your bag down here for the time being; Pep is upstairs in her room.

Milo: Thank you, Lydia.

Milo turns around and walks toward the staircase, leading upstairs to the bedrooms of the house. Milo walks down the hall; to his surprise, Jennifer’s door is open. He looks into the room; Jennifer looks up from her desk and rolls her eyes, looking back at her computer.

Milo: Well hello to you too.

Milo walks into the room and sits on Jennifer’s bed. She immediately looks up at him.

Jennifer: What are you doing?

Milo: … sitting on your bed?

Jennifer: Who told you you can sit on my bed?

Milo: *confused* I always sit on your bed when I come over?

Jennifer rolls her eyes and goes back to looking at the computer. She furiously types on the keyboard.

Milo: Telling Nicki that I’m at your place and you wish I drop dead in a ditch or something?

Jennifer sighs; annoyed. She finally faces Milo and crosses her arms.

Jennifer: I don’t know who told you we were friends again; clearly we aren’t.

Milo: You really think I want to spend the next couple of days with someone that doesn’t put the same value in me as I do them?

Jennifer: *angry* Really? We’re playing that game now?

Milo: Pep, you still haven’t told me the complete truth about what happened between you and Danny, and that bothers me. It doesn’t make any sense that you would let someone like him get close to you; not only in the band, but to your other best friend?

Jennifer: Why does it matter–

Milo: *angry* Because I’m supposed to be your best friend, Pep! I’m suppose to be the one to protect you from scumbags like that! I’m suppose to have these guys fear even fucking with you because they know if they do, they have to go through me!

Jennifer: *scoffs* You think you can do all of that for me? Please, you know you’re not even the type to do all of that anyway…

Before Jennifer can turn her chair back to the computer, Milo turns it around to face him.

Milo: I’m serious, Pep. What the fuck are you hiding from me about this guy? Why are you even protecting him–

Jennifer: *angry* Just fucking drop it already!

Milo: *louder* What the fuck is the truth, Pep?

Jennifer: *screams* You wanna know, asshole?

Milo: *screams* Just fucking spit it out already–

Jennifer gets up from her seat and grabs Milo by the collar of his shirt, bunching it up into a fist.

Jennifer: Danny was the one that took me to get an abortion, douchebag.

Jennifer releases Milo and pushes him back toward her bed. Milo straightens himself out quickly.

Jennifer: You fucking happy now, Milo? Huh? Huh!

Milo: *in shock* Wait… what?

Jennifer: *angry* Will that fucking satisfy your need to be absolutely fucking annoying–

Milo: *gets up* Pep!

Jennifer and Milo look at each other for a brief moment; nothing is said.

Milo: What. The. Fuck?

Jennifer rolls her eyes and goes back to her desk.

Milo: Why the fuck didn’t you tell me this when it happened?

Jennifer: *angry* For this exact reason. You wouldn’t understand the decisions I had to make and the reasoning behind letting all of this be in the fucking past.

Milo: *speechless* You… you were pregnant?

Jennifer: *annoyed* You keep asking all these dumb questions I already told you the answers to–

Milo: *angry* So you were just going to keep that secret from me? Does Nicki know?

Jennifer doesn’t say anything back. Milo nods his head, already knowing the answer.

Milo: So, Danny knows because, well, he was there with you when it happened; and Nicki knows because if she didn’t, she wouldn’t have ever made any advances towards a guy that literally fucked you and dipped–

Jennifer: You don’t know the story–

Milo: And I’m suppose to be your best friend, the one person that wouldn’t have known anything like this if Danny didn’t mention it.

Jennifer: … Danny told you?

Milo: No, he told me to ask you to tell me the entire story before I put any judgment on him; I guess he really is some stand-up guy since he was capable of telling me some truth–

Jennifer: *angry* This had nothing to do with you, and just because you’re my “best friend” doesn’t mean you have to know everything that’s going on with me.

Milo: *angry* That’s literally the job of being a best friend! They are the one person that should know everything going on with them!

Jennifer rolls her eyes and gets up from her desk chair.

Jennifer: *scoffs* Yeah, and you’re trying to tell me I know every little thing happening in your life now?

Milo hesitates for a brief moment.

Milo: I don’t have anything to hide from you, because you’re my best friend.

Milo gets up from where he was sitting to walk towards the bedroom door.

Milo: But like I said, it seems like I’m the only one being the decent best friend in this friendship.

Milo walks out of Jennifer’s room as she slams the door shut. Milo shakes his head and begins to walk down the stairs towards the living room where his overnight bag is located.

Milo and Gwen enter Central Park on this particularly nice Spring day. Gwen looks around in her surroundings, worried. Milo walks facing forward without a care in the world. He turns around and notices Gwen still nervous being out of school.

Milo: First time, huh?

Gwen turns around to face Milo.

Gwen: I never missed a class while being in school. You’re a horrible influence, Milo Kamalani.

Milo smiles once he realizes Gwen is teasing him. They continue to walk further into the park, into a grassy area where they can sit and hide from potential cops, looking for teenagers cutting school.

Milo: Have you been to Central Park before?

Gwen: I don’t really stay in the city if I’m not in school.

Milo: The city is such a beautiful place though! Brooklyn is fine and all of that, but if I can live in the city, I would.

Gwen: Maybe when you make it big in the music industry, you could live in the city.

Milo: *scoffs* I doubt that…

Gwen: It’s possible! Playing at Carnegie Hall with the most prestigious orchestras around the world?

Milo takes a moment to look at Gwen, taking in her beauty.

Milo: Is that what you’re aiming for?

Gwen: Huh?

Milo: Do you hope to play at Carnegie Hall with your violin one day?

Gwen shakes her head, in disbelief.

Gwen: I… don’t think so.

Milo: Don’t doubt yourself, Gwen. You’re an amazing violinist, and if any of us gets to play with the Philharmonic in the future, it would be you.

Gwen smiles and looks at Milo.

Gwen: You’re the dual major though.

Milo: *sigh* That doesn’t mean anything to anyone besides those in Waverly.

Gwen: It’s still something to feel accomplished for. You worked hard to be in the dual major program; the first of its kind!

Milo takes one more look at Gwen; she begins to look uncomfortable.

Gwen: What?

Milo: You also work hard. You’re, like, the smartest girl in our grade. You’re gonna be able to go to any college you want when you graduate in 2010.

Gwen: I guess–

Milo: *stern* Hey.

Gwen looks at Milo.

Milo: You have to learn how to give yourself credit the way you do for others.

Gwen: It’s hard when you’re in a constant battle with yourself.

Milo: But we all are; even me, and you just said that I am more capable of performing at Carnegie Hall than you because of my dual major, but you fail to realize that they’ll pick someone like you due to your accolades. It’s all about perspective.

Gwen: *smiles* Thanks.

The two teens sit in a brief silence as a warm breeze passes through. Gwen immediately holds her head with her hand; Milo notices. Gwen anxiously looks over at Milo; they both know what is on each other’s mind.

Milo: You don’t need to talk about it if you don’t want to. It’s none of my business about what you choose to do and–

Gwen: I have to wear it.

Milo looks at Gwen, allowing her to talk.

Gwen: High school is ruthless if you don’t look a certain way.

Milo: Having long hair? You don’t need to have long hair to be considered pretty, Gwen. There’s tons of girls in Waverly that wear their hair short.

Gwen: Of course, but–

Milo: And you can always grow your hair long if you wanted to–

Gwen: Sure, but–

Milo: You shouldn’t be ashamed for not looking like all of the other girls that the guys go crazy for! You’re pretty just the way you are–

Gwen: *annoyed* Milo!

Milo is taken aback by Gwen’s shouting voice. Gwen closes her eyes and shakes her head as if she is trying to gather everything Milo blurted out to her.

Gwen: Wait… y-you think I’m pretty?

Milo: *shy* Uhm… y-yeah. *solidifies statement* I think you’re really pretty. You are pretty.

Milo’s face gets red as he talks, which makes Gwen laugh.

Gwen: Thanks, Milo.

Gwen pats Milo’s lap with her hand, again sharing another silence for a brief moment. Gwen’s face slowly disappears before letting out a sigh.

Gwen: I used to get called pretty all the time. It made me feel good about myself since I was never like the other girls that actually get asked out. They always commented on how long my hair was; comparing me to Rapunzel and all of those cliche comments. It felt good to be… seen, after years of being invisible.

Gwen plays with random strands of the black hair hanging down her shoulder.

Gwen: Then… my hair just wasn’t the same anymore. My parents had to keep cutting it shorter and shorter and I just wanted to feel seen and pretty again.

Gwen looks at her fidgeting fingers before Milo looks at her. Gwen looks at him in return as he begins to reach for the black hair. Looking at Gwen, she doesn’t fight him off. He slowly slides the wig off of Gwen’s head, revealing her short, chin-length, blonde hair. He smiles at her once it’s completely off.

Milo: You are still pretty, Gwen.

Gwen smiles and gives Milo a hug. Milo is caught off-guard but immediately returns the hug. He smiles, holding Gwen close to him.

Milo lays down on his bed as he throws a small handball up towards the air. The small radio on his desk is playing Top 40 pop hits in which Milo sucks his teeth and turns it off. Suddenly, the door opens in which his mom, Eloise, walks in.

Eloise: Milo–

Milo quickly gets up from the bed, hoping his mom didn’t see his sneakers on the bed.

Milo: God, mom; ever heard of knocking before entering?

Eloise: Well, I have to enter your room to get to the other room with the luggage bags in it.

Eloise walks cross the room and opens the spare room in the back. Milo sighs, watching his mom intrude his space.

Milo: You and dad are going on another trip?

Eloise: We have to go to Chicago for an important conference coming up…

Milo: *underneath his breath* Of course.

Milo gets up from his bed and helps his mother take out the big luggage bags. Once the bags are out, Milo walks back to his bed.

Eloise: Remember to pack an overnight bag to bring to Jennifer’s house–

Milo: *annoyed* Why can’t I just stay here? I’m old enough to stay home alone.

Eloise: Absolutely not, your father would have a fit–

Milo: Of course he does, he doesn’t trust anything or anyone.

Eloise stops what she’s doing; she turns around to face Milo.

Eloise: You know how your father is. This is nothing new to you; besides, it’s not like we’re sending you to stay with some witch or something.

Milo rolls her eyes and scoffs; they are sending him to stay with a witch, and her name is Jennifer.

Milo: Whatever, mom; clearly you don’t trust me being on my own even though I’m almost 16…

Eloise: *corrects* 10 months is considered being ‘almost 16’?

Milo doesn’t answer; Eloise sighs as she drags the luggage bags across Milo’s room.

Eloise: Just do what we’re telling you to do, please. You never had an issue staying with Jennifer and her family.

Milo: I just feel like I’m old enough to stay home by myself–

Eloise: *annoyed* Well, you’re not; pack a bag when you get the chance, please.

Eloise exits Milo’s room with the luggage bags. Milo falls back onto his bed, letting out the biggest, most audible sigh.

…

It’s the next day, a school day, and the hallways are full of students going to their next class before the bell rings. Milo walks alone through the hallway, messaging Jennifer via AIM. She still hasn’t answered his messages.

xXmilomusicXx: Dude, where the hell are you? You haven't even changed your status since wednesday...

Without him looking, he bumps his head on an opened locker door. He holds his head in pain, in which the person behind the locker door closes it. To Milo’s surprise, it’s Gwen.

Gwen: Oh my god, I am so sorry–

Milo: No, no; you didn’t do anything wrong…

Milo looks up at Gwen as she has his hand on his head. Milo’s face gets hot and red. Gwen pulls her hand away from him.

Gwen: Sorry…

Milo: Stop apologizing.

Gwen looks up at Milo before trying to walk past him. He turns around.

Milo: Wait, Gwen–

Gwen: I have a class to get to–

Milo: Gwen, just stop.

Gwen stops short, causing Milo to slightly bump into her. She doesn’t turn around so Milo is forced to walk in front of her to finally have a chance to talk to her.

Milo: I’ve been meaning to talk to you.

Gwen: It can wait for another day–

Milo: No, it can’t–

Gwen: Right now isn’t the time to just–

Milo: Gwen, can you just hear me out?

Gwen sighs.

Gwen: *dismissive* About what?

Milo: About what happened the other day in the rehearsal room, and don’t say nothing happened because if nothing did happen, you wouldn’t avoid talking about it like you are.

Gwen: *defensive* I’m not avoiding anything–

Milo: Gwen.

Gwen: There’s nothing to talk about, so won’t you just drop it–

Before Gwen can leave, Milo grabs her by the hand. It initially surprises her. She looks down at her hand and then back at Milo, still holding onto it.

Milo: You know you can talk to me about anything, right?

Gwen doesn’t say anything at first; she seems unsure.

Milo: You know you can talk to me about anything.

The bell rings, which triggers Gwen to yank her hand out of Milo’s and continues to walk down the hall. Milo follows.

Milo: Gwen, wait!

Gwen: I’m going to be late for class–

Milo: We’re both going to the same class–

Once Gwen gets to the front of the classroom, she notices a substitute teacher sitting at the desk. Before Gwen can walk inside, Milo pushes her out of sight’s way. Gwen is taken aback.

Gwen: What are you–

Milo: Let’s get out of here.

Gwen looks at Milo worringly.

Gwen: Where can we possibly go? We have class right now–

Milo: Listen to me, Gwen.

Milo has Gwen’s shoulders in both of his hands. Gwen looks at Milo with a frightened look on her face.

Milo: This is our last class, and we have Mr. Drunlap as our sub. He’s not gonna take attendance, and you’re not gonna miss anything out in class. Let’s just go before the last bell rings.

Gwen: But that would be cutting school–

The last bell rings, which makes Milo grab a hold of Gwen’s hand and runs to the end of the hall. Gwen tries to fight Milo along the way, but once Milo opens the side door of the school, he slips Gwen out before anyone can catch them. The two teens begin running down the block, as far away from the school as possible.

They finally reached the corner, stopping before the traffic light turns green.

Gwen: Are you out of your mind, Milo?!

Milo smiles’ he’s amused. This frustrates Gwen.

Gwen: There’s nothing funny about this situation! I can’t believe you just made me cut a class!

Milo: Gwen–

Milo tries to calm down Gwen and refocuses her.

Milo: Do you trust me?

Gwen doesn’t answer Milo. She stands here and stares at him intently. Milo does the same.

Milo: Because I trust you to the moon and back, Gwen.

Gwen loosens up her body a bit, taking a deep breath before letting it out.

Milo: I will make sure you are home at the right time, as you do everyday.

Gwen: But–

Milo: Gwen.

Gwen sighs; she knows it’s a losing battle with Milo.

Gwen: Fine. What are we supposed to do now?

Milo: *smiles* Anything we want to do. Let’s go!

Milo grabs Gwen by the hand once more, running across the street when the traffic light turns red.