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CHOICES 1
SCENE 1
SETTING
(A psychotherapists office. Mid-after noon.
LOCKWOOD is sitting at his desk reading over
files, however he is not seen until after MELANIE
is onstage. There is a desk, with a leather wingback
chair that LOCKWOOD is sitting in, and then catty-
corner to the desk is a love-seat sofa with pillows.
To the left of the sofa is an end table with tissues,
and a small trashcan sits under it.)
AT RISE
(The office is dark, hidden almost. A woman,
MELANIE enters, and with her the surroundings
are revealed. LOCKWOOD is still concealed from
view, a faceless shadow of a person. MELANIE
tentatively sits down on the sofa and begins to play
with her hands, out of nervousness. There is
silence.)
MELANIE
So do I just talk to you, is that what I do?
(MELANIE is talking to LOCKWOOD, who cannot be seen or heard yet.)
Where do I start I dont really know-
(Pauses as if she were interrupted.)
It started with demeaning words, when my father was angry with me.
(Gradually over the last few words, LOCKWOOD and his desk are
revealed.)
LOCKWOOD
What about physically? Was he excessive? Abusive even?
MELANIE
It was his temper, it got away from him sometimes mostly yelling harsh wordsmade me cry. Sometimes almost beating me when I was about 6 years old my father
had me, by the neck, up against the bedroom door.
(MELANIE takes a deep breath.)
All I said was Daddy please dont kill me
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CHOICES 2
LOCKWOOD
That wasnt your fault. Stop blaming yourself for your fathers sins know that he
cannothurt you here. You are safe. Tissues are on the side table.
(MELANIE leans over, pulls a tissue, and quickly wipes the tears away.)
Were there other times?
MELANIE
Sophomore year, there was a boy I liked. My dad found out about him and flipped
started yelling and screaming breaking Christmas ornaments anything he could get
his hands on. He came after me too mom got in his way, so he hit her. After that all I
remember is his laughter.
LOCKWOOD
Did he try to hurt you again or your mother?
MELANIE
Not that night. I stopped talking to the boy for a while. Sort of feel bad, blaming him
which was very wrong.
LOCKWOOD
Did you tell him why?
MELANIE
No meant to
LOCKWOOD
Was that the worst it got physically for you?
MELANIE
One time, it started with the normal yelling and swearing. He got right in my face and
hit me, not very hard but enough. So I ran to another room and he followed me then
I was on the floor he decided to grab me by my ankles dragged me across the carpet.
(MELANIE rises and stands behind the chair, gripping the top tightly.)
I gripped the edge of the step, with all my strength willing my fingers to hold that he
would not win. When it was over I was sitting in the corner hugging my legs tight to
my chest blood trickling down my fingertips my nails had broken off rocking
back and forth praying for God to make it stop.
LOCKWOOD
Melanie, open your eyes. You arent there anymore. You are in my office, and you are
safe.
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CHOICES 3
MELANIE
Do I have to talk about him anymore?
LOCKWOOD
No, thats enough for now, how about you tell me more about your mother.
MELANIE
My mom now, or back then?
LOCKWOOD
Anything you would like. This is your session after all.
MELANIE
Now you tell me My mom and I have weird relationship she never was really amotherto me
LOCKWOOD
How is that?
MELANIE
Dad stayed home and mom worked full time
LOCKWOOD
Did she try to make a bond with you?
MELANIE
Later on, we talked more. Did stuff together. Girlie things. That was high school.
LOCKWOOD
What motivated this?
MELANIE
No idea.
LOCKWOOD
What would you hope the reason was?
MELANIE
Me growing up.
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CHOICES 4
LOCKWOOD
Did your father start to draw away from you then?
MELANIE
Maybe its so hard to remember clearly
LOCKWOOD
Melanie, close your eyes. Now, take deep breaths. Focus on your breathing. Relax. Now
find a happy memory, any memory.
MELANIE
And then?
LOCKWOODFeel the happiness in it. Remember it, focus on it.
MELANIE
So, just focus
LOCKWOOD
on the emotion.
MELANIE
Okay, but how
LOCKWOOD
put thathappiness into the void, replace the negative emotions.
MELANIE
Will that fix it? The pain?
LOCKWOOD
Nothing can fix you; the pain is all in your memories.
MELANIE
So I have to accept that? That will make it better?
LOCKWOOD
Yes, and no. Its a daily struggle.
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CHOICES 5
MELANIE
Any more tips and tricks for me, doc? Cause I am really messed up over here.
LOCKWOOD
Messed up? How so?
MELANIE
The stuff with my parents and then instead of making friends, I created imaginary ones
from the characters in the books I read
LOCKWOOD
That was one of the best things you could have done.
MELANIESo imaginary friends are healthy?
LOCKWOOD
No.
MELANIE
But, you just said
LOCKWOOD
the key part of my statement was best for you.
MELANIE
Oh
LOCKWOOD
Are you uncomfortable?
MELANIE
Yes.
LOCKWOOD
Do I make you uncomfortable? Or is it talking about your past?
MELANIE
I dont know.
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CHOICES 6
LOCKWOOD
What would you rather talk about?
MELANIE
Something less painful.
LOCKWOOD
Next time, we can talk about other things. How does that sound?
MELANIE
Sounds okay.
LOCKWOOD
Well then, thats all for today. Ill see you again in a week. Please try to take what I saidto heart.
(MELANIE stands awkwardly, before heading off stage, leaving
LOCKWOOD at his desk. Lights fade. The focus shifts to another part of
the stage. A living area with a sofa, ottoman, and short coffee table. There
is also a desk with a chair. Adjacent is a very cramped kitchen area, big
enough for two people only. Already lounging on the sofa is GARRETT.
MELANIE enters, not paying attention to her surroundings.)
GARRETT
So, how did it go, Melanie?
MELANIE
Therapy was hard.
GARRETT
Wanna talk about it?
MELANIE
Its hard talking about that sort of stuff with someone.
GARRETT
You talk to me about it.
MELANIE
Thats because youre you.
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CHOICES 7
GARRET.
What makes me easier to talk to?
MELANIE
Its hard to explain, Garret Why cant life be simple, and happy, and uncomplicated?
GARRETT
What would be the fun in that?
MELANIE
Is your mom home?
GARRETT
Nope.
MELANIE
Eaten dinner yet?
(GARRET grunts to the negative, but doesnt elaborate.)
So Im making then?
GARRETT
Yep.
MELANIE
Any frozen dinners left? Dont feel like cooking anything right now.
GARRETT
Not sure.
MELANIE
Well, Mr. Monosyllabic, would you mind taking a look for me?
GARRETTSure.
(GARRET doesnt move. MELANIE watches to see if he will get up.)
MELANIE
Could you?
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CHOICES 8
GARRETT
Only if you say the magic words.
MELANIE
Bite me.
GARRETT
Thank you.
(GARRET finally gets up. Starts to walk off, then stops, walks back and
hugs MELANIE. Continues off to kitchen area.)
MELANIE
Men.
( MELANIE shakes her head as she sits down on the sofa.)
Did the freezer eat you?
GARRETT
Nope. Just perusing the possibilities.
MELANIE
As if you were going to make anything.
GARRETT
(GARRET enters back to living room area.)
I could make something...
MELANIE
What?
GARRET
Suggestions.
MELANIE
Silly boy(MELANIE moves to the kitchen area, GARRETT follows.)
What are you hungry for?
GARRETT
Food.
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CHOICES 9
MELANIE
So it looks like we have Chicken Alfredo mac n cheese corn on the cob chicken
nuggets crinkle sweet potato fries mixed vegetables you know Im not saying all
this for my health right?
GARRET
What ever you want, Mel.
MELANIE
That is not an answer.
GARRETT
Yes it is, its just not the one you where looking for.
MELANIEFine. (MELANIE roughly grabs a random box and bag out of the freezer and shuts it a
little too hard. GARRETT begins to pull out plates, silverware and cups, as MELANIE
starts the bag in the microwave.) Could you have been any more helpful?
GARRETT
I am being helpful see I got the plates out. Whats wrong? You are never are this tense
unless something bad has happened
MELANIE
Nothing bad has happened.
GARRETT
Somethings up. (MELANIE ignores him and busily tries to avoid responding by
prepping more food.) Melanie, stop. Please. (MELANIE halts her movements but stays in
the same position.) Could you turn around so I can look at you?
MELANIE
What if I dont want to talk about it?
GARRETT
Right now, its more about what you need. And I am here for you...but if you really dont
want to talk about it, then I wont push...too much.
MELANIE
How was work today?
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CHOICES 10
GARRETT
The usual. Not too many problems. Gave out a study guide, which they worked on. Kept
them pretty quiet.
MELANIE
Thats good. Did you get an email about the set for Sunday?
GARRETT
Not yet, Don hasnt figured out which closing song to use introduce a new one, or pull
an hymn.
MELANIE
You singing, or working the computer?
GARRETT
Singing. No other guys on rotation for this week. Do you have nursery duty?
MELANIE
Nope. Thats next month. I switched off with Rachel. She is going on a mini vacation
next month to visit some family.
(MELANIE stops what she is doing in the kitchen.)
Therapy was hard today.
GARRETT
You said that earlier.
(GARRET sits back down on sofa, gesturing for MELANIE to sit next
to him.)
Wanna talk about it?
MELANIE
Its hard to explain.
GARRETT
Would Nutella help?
MELANIE
Maybe
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CHOICES 11
GARRETT
And a foot rub?
MELANIE
Yeah
GARRETT
You have to come over then.
(GARRETT pulls small container of Nutella and breadsticks out of
ottoman, as MELANIE comes over and sits down. He hands her the snack
and grabs her feet, taking her socks off to begin massaging.)
MELANIE (Between bites.)
First off, it is plain weird talking to a shrink about my problems.. .I know I am a littlecrazy just dont need another person especially one with a degree in diagnosing
people knowing that.
GARRETT
But if you dont talk to him about whats wrong, how can you get help?
MELANIE
Thats just the thing! He told me that he cant fix me. Cant fix my problems.
GARRETTWhere you expecting him to?
MELANIE
Yeah, otherwise why else would I have gone to him in the first place.
GARRETT
Back up, and tell me about the no fix thing.
MELANIE
As long as you keep massaging
GARRETT
Scouts honor.
(GARRETT forms the boy scouts honor salute with hand.)
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CHOICES 12
MELANIE
(Rolls here eyes.)
Doesnt count if you werent a scout...but thanks.
(The microwave goes off.)
GARRETT
Let me.
(MELANIE takes a moment to think, then nods. GARRET goes to the
microwave in kitchen.)
Its done. Put in the oven to stay warm, and then start the next one?
MELANIE
Just dont take the plastic top off this one.
GARRETTI canread directions, you know.
MELANIE
Whether you do is another thing.
GARRETT
I resemblethat.
(First container is put in the oven, which is set to warm.)
MELANIE
Sure do, fly boy.
GARRETT
(Puts second container in microwave and starts the timer.)
Back to your story.
MELANIE
It was awkward at first. I didnt know what to say.
GARRETT
Understandable.
MELANIE
Then he had me start talking about my dad and you know
(GARRETT leaves the kitchen area to stand by MELANIE.)
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CHOICES 13
GARRETT
Did he make you feel uncomfortable?
MELANIE
Yes. No. Maybe. It was more talking about the past that past.
GARRETT
Did you let him know that?
MELANIE
Yeah, then he changed subjects.
GARRETT
Thats good.
MELANIE
I am just anxious about the rest of the sessions. What more are we going to talk about?
How is talking going to help me?
(GARRET sits down next to MELANIE and puts his arm around her,
pulling her towards him in a side hug, and places a kiss on the top of her
head.)
GARRETT
Mel, calm down, youre overthinking it.
(Tilts up her chin to see her face.)
Just take it one session at a time. Now, we have a dinner to finish warming up. Think you
are up to peel some of the Granny Smiths, while I open the ice trays?
(MELANIE curls up closer to him, hugging GARRETT tighter a silent
thank you.)
END OF SCENE
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CHOICES 14
SCENE 2
SETTING (Back in LOCKWOODs office. Late
morning. Several therapy sessions later.
LOCKWOOD is at his desk.)
LOCKWOOD
How are you doing today, Melanie?
MELANIE
Well. Been sleeping a bit better since you suggested the deep breathing exercises before
bed.
LOCKWOOD
How are you doing in your classes?
MELANIE
Pretty good. Better in theatre and english than chemistry.
LOCKWOOD
So youre more of an artsy person?
MELANIE
I guess.
LOCKWOOD
So I thought today we could talk about relationships, other than your parents.
MELANIE
Dating advice?
LOCKWOOD
Not exactly. Are you currently in a relationship?
MELANIE
Yes.
LOCKWOOD
And how serious is it?
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CHOICES 15
MELANIE
Pretty serious. (Holds up left hand.)
LOCKWOOD
Whats his name?
MELANIE
Garret.
LOCKWOOD
And how long have you two been together?
MELANIE
About two years.
LOCKWOOD
Is that two years engaged or two years together?
MELANIE
Both.
LOCKWOOD
How long where you dating before he proposed?
MELANIE
A few months.
LOCKWOOD
That was fast. Where there other contributing factors to why he would propose so soon?
MELANIE
It just made sense. We sort of grew up together, so there wasnt a whole lot getting to
know the other person.
LOCKWOOD
What changed in your relationship with him, to go from friends to dating?
MELANIE
Just one of those thoughts of, what if.
(She begins to relax and smile while talking about Garrett.)
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CHOICES 16
I mean, we always treated each other like siblings, but I definitely didnt see him like a
brother. You dont have daydreams about kissing your brother
LOCKWOOD
Then it was you who made the first move?
MELANIE
Yes. It took a bit for him to get the wholeI care about you- not in a platonic way. Sort of
was cute when he figured it out.
LOCKWOOD
You initiated the relationship.
MELANIE
To keep waiting for him to act on his feelings would have taken a Herculean feat.
LOCKWOOD
I can tell you care about him a great deal. Theres a noticeable difference when you talk
about him, you become more relaxed. Your voice even softens.
MELANIE
Really?
LOCKWOOD
Yes, and it is a good thing. I am happy you have a person in your life whom you arewilling to open to and vulnerable with.
MELANIE
We still have our fair share of arguments.
LOCKWOOD
As does any other couple in the world, I would be more concerned if you didnt fight.
Before Garrett, where there any other serious relationships?
MELANIE
Not that serious.
LOCKWOOD
But there was the potential to become that serious
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CHOICES 17
MELANIE
There was this one boy, the summer before I started college. It was a big mistake.
LOCKWOOD
What do you consider to be a mistake about it?
MELANIE
I was more infatuated with the idea of the relationship, than him, and I just let him walk
all over me a bit more than I should. Also I ended it badly.
LOCKWOOD
It sounds like there are some unresolved issues with that part of your past.
MELANIENot unresolved, just regrets. I made some very bad choices regarding boys in high
school.
LOCKWOOD
What does Garrett feel about these regrets, these past relationships?
MELANIE
He doesnt know. Not the full details. He knows I am damaged goods, with a tattered
past.
LOCKWOOD
Damaged?
MELANIE
I wasnt raped or anything. And I wasnt a slut either.
LOCKWOOD
I wasnt about to mention anything like that.
MELANIE
Sorry. I just have never talk about this with anyone before.
LOCKWOOD
Im here to listen, not to judge.
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CHOICES 18
MELANIE
Still getting used to all this. Talking about my dad, its hard but I can mostly handle it.
Talking about my own mistakes not so easy.
LOCKWOOD
That shows you are human. So why do you feel like damaged goods?
MELANIE
I have always had an image problem still do When a boy showed interest, I really
wanted him to like me. Wanted him to care about me.
LOCKWOOD
Because your father didnt seem to.
MELANIEKind of.
LOCKWOOD
Again, that is a human reaction. And you never told Garrett about this?
MELANIE
He knows enough.
LOCKWOOD
When you do premarital counseling, these past relationships may come up you havent
gone thought it yet, have you?
MELANIE
Not yet.
LOCKWOOD
Whens the date?
MELANIEThat is a whole different conversation.
LOCKWOOD
Tension over setting a date?
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CHOICES 19
MELANIE
Try tension over deciding on anything that has to do with the wedding. I try to talk to
him; but when I show him stuff, his comment is that looks nice.
LOCKWOOD
Has nice become a bad thing?
MELANIE
To me, nicemeans not terrible, but not spectacular. I just want his input, not a simple one
word response.
LOCKWOOD
Have you told him any of this?
MELANIESort of.
LOCKWOOD
How long have you been having these communication problems?
MELANIE
About the wedding, maybe five or six months. Ever since I started getting really serious
about planning the wedding.
LOCKWOOD
You should talk to him about why all this bothers you. In the mean time, is there a reason
you are trying so hard to get married so soon.
MELANIE
We have been engaged for two years! How is this rushing things?
LOCKWOOD
How quickly you jump to the pronoun we, when I said you.
MELANIE
What huh?
LOCKWOOD
Why are you pushing to hard to get married? Are you afraid of him leaving you? Do you
need a binding commitment to be secure in your relationship?
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MELANIE
No, no thats not it.
LOCKWOOD
Then what is it?
MELANIE
Im just so ready to be married. So ready to start that next part of my life, our life
together.
LOCKWOOD
And you feel like you are stuck right now?
MELANIEYes! Exactly, stuck in the netherworld of not dating but not married. I dont know what
we are right now; we have been engaged so long, without really progressing or changing
our relationship, that I just want to next step, to be something more.
LOCKWOOD
Is this about him and marriage, or is it really about you?
MELANIE
Of course it is about our relationship. What else would this be about?
LOCKWOOD
How intimate is your relationship with Garrett?
MELANIE
Is that really relevant?
LOCKWOOD
Youre avoiding the question.
MELANIE
We live together I mean I live with his mom, and he does too
LOCKWOOD
Do you two share a bed?
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MELANIE
If you are asking if we are sleeping together, no.
LOCKWOOD
So you have your own room?
MELANIE
Something like that.
LOCKWOOD
How long have you all been in this living situation?
MELANIE
About a year. Since me and my dad well you know about that situation.
LOCKWOOD
Was there anywhere else that you could have stayed?
MELANIE
People knew my situation; Garretts mom offered and I have been living there since.
LOCKWOOD
Have you been trying to find another place to live?
MELANIE
Ive thought about it; but with being a full time student - working a minimum paying part
time job - I cant afford to pay for rent around here.
LOCKWOOD
And there arent any older women at your church, who would enjoy the company of a
young woman in their home?
MELANIE
My situation isnt exactly broadcast in the weekly newsletter. But, no, there is no onewho has offered. Im fine with my situation.
LOCKWOOD
Has living in such close proximity with Garrett caused more tension?
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MELANIE
Not really. Maybe some, but its fine. We are fine.
LOCKWOOD
Why are you so defensive in talking about how close you are with your fiancee? Does it
go back to things in the past he doesnt know?
MELANIE
No.
LOCKWOOD
Look, I am here to help. I cant do that if you dont let me in.
MELANIE
Its nothing; the past is the past.
LOCKWOOD
Just because its past, doesnt mean it cant haunt you now.
MELANIE
Its nothing you can help with. Trust me.
LOCKWOOD
Why dont you let me be the judge of that.
MELANIE
Fine. Garrett and I have slept together.
LOCKWOOD
And?
MELANIE
Garret is trying to get a job in ministry. It wasnt planned or anything, it just happened.
LOCKWOOD
Was it a one time thing?
MELANIE
No. We tried to just brush it off as a mistake, a moment of weakness, but then it happened
again and again and again
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LOCKWOOD
And you feel guilty about it.
MELANIE
We both do. God, we both do. Its just there are these moments, and its so hard to just
walk away and stop that desire, that yearning.
LOCKWOOD
Are you still sleeping together?
MELANIE
No. Not in a month or so. Not since
LOCKWOODSince what? Did something change?
MELANIE
You could say that. The first time we where together was not planned and we
hum had a bit of a scare
LOCKWOOD
A pregnancy scare?
MELANIE
Thats what I told him.
LOCKWOOD
You lied to him.
MELANIE
I dont know, thats the thing. My period was 2 weeks late, and it was different and I
got this feeling, a bad feeling.
LOCKWOOD
But you never told him any of this?
MELANIE
No! I thought it was a mistake I mean the sleeping together part I was just so guilty
and confused.
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LOCKWOOD
But you never took a pregnancy test to confirm?
MELANIE
I was too scared.
LOCKWOOD
Does Garrett want children?
MELANIE
So much so. Both of us are only children, and its kind of always been a dream of his to
have a large house full of kids.
LOCKWOODWhy havent you told him, a miscarriage is a terrible thing to deal with emotionally, and
you chose to go through it alone.
MELANIE
That was the first miscarriage.
LOCKWOOD
There have been others?
MELANIE
Yes.
LOCKWOOD
How many?
MELANIE
Two others at least; and one Im still unsure of.
LOCKWOODHow did you keep four miscarriage from your fiancee, especially with living in the same
house as him?
MELANIE
He knows about the middle two. We went to the OBGYN, had blood work and even
ultrasounds done. He was so devastated when we lost them.
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(MELANIE rises quickly and begins to make her way out of the office.
LOCKWOOD partially rises as he tires to calm her down.)
LOCKWOOD
Melanie, you dont have to leave
MELANIE
(Stops by the door, back to LOCKWOOD.)
Yes, I do. This was not why I came here.
LOCKWOOD
Are you quite sure?
MELANIEVery, Doctor Lockwood.
LOCKWOOD
Will I see at our next session?
MELANIE
Provided you stay out of my personal relationships, and any past personal decisions.
LOCKWOOD
We can talk about anything you want next time. Just please remember my advice.
(MELANIE exits during his last line, leaving him alone in his office.
Lights fade.)
END OF SCENE
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CHOICES 28
Scene 3
SETTING (Mid-Afternoon. Immediately
following the scene with LOCKWOOD.
In the house, GARRETT is lounging on the sofa
with his computer open. MELANIE enters loudly,
tired and still flustered.)
GARRET
Youre back early howd it go today?
MELANIE
Same. We talked, I got upset.
GARRETT
What did he make you talk about today?
MELANIE
You.
GARRETT
How was that upsetting?
MELANIE
He just tried to pry into things that where none of his concern.
GARRETT
What things specifically?
MELANIE
How I felt about you and how our relationship is progressing.
GARRETTAnd that upset you?
MELANIE
He was concerned about my living with you.
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GARRETT
Does he know
MELANIE
Yes, of course I told him that it is more of me living with your mother, while you live
here too.
GARRETT
If he knew that, then what set you off?
MELANIE
He started butting in with suggestions.
GARRETT
What suggestions?
MELANIE
That perhaps another woman in our church could put me up in her home
GARRETT
What did you say to that?
MELANIE
Nothing.
GARRETT
Thats it? Why didnt you
MELANIE
Do what?
(Pulls off shoes and socks; silently offering her feet to GARRETT for a
massage.)
Argue with my shrink? The last time I tried to argue with a healthcare professional she
would have dropped me as a liability to her practice if I hadnt taken that script forantidepressants. Even when I told her I didnt feel that they would help.
GARRETT
Lockwood is different
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MELANIE
Can we please not talk about this? I just want to relax.
GARRETT
Okay, Ill drop it.
(Moves to massaging her calves.)
What did he want to know about our relationship?
MELANIE
He started off simple, with your name, and how we met. How long we have been
together how serious is our relationship how intimate thats when the living with
you came up.
GARRETT
Did you enjoy talking about me?
MELANIE
It was a change from the past few sessions a nice change though. How was school
today?
GARRETT
Stressful.
MELANIE
What happened?
GARRETT
Had to send a kid to the office.
MELANIE
One of your kids? What did he do?
GARRETT
Made a stupid comment to a girl in class a mean comment about going back to whereher parents where from.
MELANIE
Did he apologize?
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GARRETT
Kind of. I made him apologize. But you know twelve year old boys, they rarely feel sorry
for what they apologize for Thank God it was a half day.
MELANIE
Want me to make you a sandwich and an ice water, love?
GARRETT
You dont have to
MELANIE
I want to.
GARRETT
Who am I to refuse such a kind offer, fair maiden?
MELANIE
Ever the gentleman
(Continues the conversation into the kitchen area)
So have you been job searching lately?
GARRETT
Seen a few promising candidates, just need to do a cover letter and upload some videos of
myself.
MELANIE
Any local?
GARRETT
One is over in Ghent, really close to MacArthur. Was thinking we could visit on Sunday,
if you dont have nursery duty
MELANIE
Sounds good; formal or casual dress?
GARRETT
A nice dress should be fine, maybe we could do lunch out after
MELANIE
Olive Garden is doing their endless pasta bowl deal
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GARRETT
Why am I not surprised that you know this?
MELANIE
I saw the commercial last night.
GARRETT
Cant promise anything, but maybe if you are good and finish your homework.
MELANIE
Im not a child, you know.
GARRETT
I know I also know you tend to procrastinate on your work.
MELANIE
If you arent going to be nice, I guess you dont want this sandwich?
(MELANIE enters back into the living room area.)
GARRETT
Give it here.
(MELANIE holds the sandwich just out of his react.)
Please, love. Im sorry.
MELANIE
Since you apologized.
(Hands over sandwich.)
Wheres your cup?
GARRETT
Should still be in the dishwasher, I havent used it since everything was last washed.
MELANIESo this church, are they looking for someone to fill the position soon?
GARRETT
Thats what the posting online said. They would be interview me, then the committee
would vote on if I am a good candidate to present for the church, and I would then
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provisionally lead for a few Sunday and Wednesday services, before the congregation
votes.
MELANIE
At least they will let you lead worship before voting.
GARRETT
I have to make it past the search committee first.
MELANIE
So, should I start working on wedding stuff?
GARRETT
If you want; we wont know anything for sure for at least a month or so.
MELANIE
Im asking you.
GARRETT
And I am telling you to plan if you want to.
MELANIE
But I want your opinion and input on this. It would be our wedding.
GARRETT
We have talked about this before, just show me what you come up with, and Ill comment
on it then.
(MELANIE makes a face, then looks away.)
What?
MELANIE
Nothing.
GARRETTNo, it was something.
MELANIE
Just drop it okay?
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GARRETT
Dont get frustrated and then not tell me. If I make you mad, at least tell me so I know
whats wrong when you get in a mood.
MELANIE
But when I tell you, you always take it the wrong way. And then we fight, and I cry, and
you feel bad.
GARRETT
You cant keep bottling it all up. Talk to me. Tell me whats wrong, and then we can talk
through it.
MELANIE
Its just, like I told the Doc earlier, we dont have a plan. Its always the same thing. We
set a date; I plan and I get my hopes up, and then it falls through. Again.
GARRETT
You didnt say he asked about our wedding plans.
MELANIE
How can I tell him what our plans are; when I dont even know if we have a plan?!
GARRETT
I thought the plan was to get married as soon as I found a full time job with benefits.
MELANIE
Thats not a plan. Thats an objective.
GARRETT
What more do you want from me? I am apply for jobs left and right. I cant make them
give me the job!
MELANIE
Yes, you can.
GARRETT
No, Mel, I cant. It doesnt work like that.
MELANIE
Well, it should (Pause.) God, I sound like a child
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GARRETT
No, you sound frustrated, and that is perfectly alright.
MELANIE
I just wish things where simpler less complicated.
GARRETT
Im sorry that I am making this frustrating for you. Im only trying to get a full time job
during a recession, in a field that isnt really hiring younger men.
MELANIE
And what do I do? I am in school full time, working part time when I have free time, and
helping take care of your mother, all while doing the majority of the cooking and
cleaning around here.
GARRETT
I never said you didnt do anything.
MELANIE
But when is the last time you though about the fact that I do all this, without complaining.
(MELANIE starts to rant, raising her voice.)
When your mom is too sick to clean the dishes, I do it. When youve had a long day at
school, and havent had a chance to do laundry, I do it, and iron your dress clothes. I take
out the trash and make sure you have a lunch to take with you in the morning when isthe last time you asked me if I needed a hand?
GARRET
Mel
MELANIE
You dont think. No one ever does. People are always forgetting about me. I dont ask for
much.
GARRETT
Do I make unfair demands of you?
MELANIE
No.
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GARRETT
Then why are you taking this out on me?
MELANIE
I dont mean to I didnt mean to say anything, it just came out. Im sorry.
GARRETT
What can I do to fix it?
MELANIE
You cant fix it. No one can fix it. That is just the way my life is.
GARRETT
Im just trying to help you, no need to bite my head off.
MELANIE
Well, how about you say something that actually helps.
GARRETT
That was not called for, Mel. Im not the bad guy here.
MELANIE
Why cant you just help me - do something! - instead of suggesting useless things?
GARRETT
I dont know what to do! There, are you happy? Im a guy who doesnt know what to do.
Thats why I am asking you. Tell me something!
MELANIE
I dont know. I dont know what to tell you. I dont know what I want. I just dont
know.
GARRETT
Then how am I supposed to help you?
MELANIE
I dont know! What more do you want from me?
GARRETT
Mel
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MELANIE
(In exasperation.) What?
GARRETT
Is something else wrong?
MELANIE
We are in the middle of an argument and you are asking if something elseis wrong?
GARRETT
Yes!
(Takes a moment, then begins again in a lower and calmer voice.)
Because I know you. And right now you are picking a fight with me. Pushing all that
negative emotion out any way you can.
MELANIE
Dont you dare put this all on me.
GARRETT
Thats the thing, Im not.
MELANIE
You just said
GARRETT
(Grasps MELANIEs forearms and pulls her closer to him, looking intently into
her eyes.)
Look me in the eyes and tell me that this is just another frustrated argument about
wedding stuff!
MELANIE
(Cannot meet his gaze, and struggles in his grasp.)
Let go of me.
GARRETT
Not until you tell me what really is wrong.
MELANIE
Nothing. (Again MELANIE cannot meet his eyes.)
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GARRETT
Why dont I believe you?
(MELANIE continues struggling. GARRETT holds on firmly, but never enough
to hurt her in any way.)
MELANIE
(Beginning to feel cornered.) Just drop it, okay?
GARRETT
You are shutting me out.
MELANIE
I dont have to tell you everything, you know.
GARRETT
But, Im your fiancee, your best friend, who else can you talk to if not to me wait
did it have to do with something you talked about in therapy today?
MELANIE
(Stops fighting his hold on her.) Please stop.
GARRETT
You talked about something today. Something big. But you wont talk to me about it
why?
MELANIE
Please.
GARRETT
You cant keep holding everything in, hiding all your problems from the world. Not even
you are strong enough for all that, love.
(Slowly pulls her closer, until he is almost embracing her in a hug, her head
resting on his sternum and arms rigidly at her sides.)
MELANIE
It hurts too much.
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GARRETT
Because I know that you dont mean it all to hurt me. Yes, you are frustrated about
planning the wedding. Yes, I know that therapy has brought up a lot of old memories and
emotions. And yes, we may fight and argue, but its not the end of the world. What
matters is we love each other, and in the end we make it right.
MELANIE
I love you, Garrett, so much.
GARRETT
And I you, Melanie. With all my heart.
(GARRETT kisses the top of her head and holds her closer, this time
MELANIE wraps her arms around him tightly, fisting his shirt.)
Hey now, whats wrong?
MELANIE
Im a terrible person.
GARRETT
What do you say that, angel?
MELANIE
I I there is something I havent told you.
GARRETTWhat?
MELANIE
I dont know how to tell you
GARRETT
What ever it is, know that we can get through it, together.
MELANIE
You say that now The truth is I lied I lied about something huge, and I did it to
protect you.
GARRETT
What are you talking about?
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MELANIE
I knew how much having children means to you and I couldnt hurt you like that, not
again
GARRETT
Melanie, youre scaring me.
MELANIE
There where two other miscarriages.
GARRETT
(Pulls away startled, but MELANIE refuses to make eye contact. After a
moment.)
What?
MELANIE
Im sorry.
GARRETT
When where you going to tell me?!
(Melanie turns away, wrapping her arms around her waist tightly.)
(Louder) Where you ever going to tell me?!
(MELANIE shudders at his raised voice.)
MELANIE
Garrett, please
GARRETT
How could you do this to me? I thought we where supposed to be a team. I thought we
told each other things like this. I thought you trusted me.
MELANIE
I do, I did it just
GARRETT
Just what? You thought you could keep it to yourself? Ignore the pain until it went away?
It doesnt work like that.
MELANIE
(Now yelling.) I know that!
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GARRETT
Then just tell me why
MELANIE
Because I was ashamed. Because I was scared. Because
GARRETT
I could have been there for you.
MELANIE
And done what? Held me as a cried, told me it wasnt my fault. Dont you think I know
that?! But every day I have to live with the fact that I am a failure as a mother. A failure.
GARRETTIt was not your fault.
MELANIE
It was my body.
GARRETT
Mel (Takes a step toward her, as if to gather her into his arms again and she again
backs away.) Melanie, please.
MELANIE
Every time I see a women with a baby, or small children, all I can think about is that
should be me, those should be my children, but they arent. And it hurts so much. And it
wont stop.
GARRET
Is that why youve been so distant this past month? Why you barely let me touch you,
why we dont
MELANIE
Yes.
GARRETT
And why you have been so insistent about me finding a full time job? And all the
wedding planning?
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GARRETT
No, you didnt think. Didnt think that I had a right to know, that I could have been a
father, again. Didnt think I deserved to know that we lost another child. Didnt think I
should be there to help you through the physical and emotional pain, again.
MELANIE
I didnt tell you because I was scared.
GARRETT
Dont you think I have been scared too? You have been distant and moody, some days
more so than others. And all I could do was watch you, try and help you through the
depression that I thought was because of therapy.
MELANIEIm so sorry.
GARRETT
Sorry isnt good enough. Sorry wont fix this.
(GARRETTs hands dart out quickly, and he pulls MELANIE to him. She
is very startled by this and begins to struggle. GARRETT does not let go
of her, his grip remains firm.)
You should have told me.
MELANIE
I couldnt.
(Continues struggling more strongly, as she begins to feel trapped and a bit
controlled by the confined space of GARRETTs grasp.)
GARRETT
Didnt you think I had a right to know? What else have you been keeping from me?
MELANIE
I was trying to protect you.
GARRETT
That is supposed to be my job.
MELANIE
It was my choice.
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GARRETT
It takes to people to bring a child into this world.
MELANIE
But only one feels the pain of child birth. You didnt feel the contractions, the sense of
dread as you start to bleed, and your first though it, dear God, not the baby. You didnt
spend every day worrying if this would be the day it all cam crashing down, or was there
hope that this child, this innocent new life, would make it to full term. And you didnt
have to feel the emptiness in your very soul, when you realized there would be no happy
ending to this story. Only tears and pain.
GARRETT
That was not your cross to bear alone. You should have
MELANIE
Who gave you the right to tell me what I should or shouldnt do?!
GARRET
I though us being in a relationship meant something to you, I thought that ring on your
finger mean that we where a team. When did you stop believing in us?
MELANIE
You know what, fine.
(In a fit of frustration, MELANIE struggles to pull the diamond solitaireoff her left ring finger.)
GARRETT
(In total shock) What are you doing?
MELANIE
Sending you a message.
(Holds the small ring in the palm of her hand.)
Here you go.
(GARRETT doesnt move.)
GARRETT
Why are you doing this?
MELANIE
I cant do this.
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GARRETT
Do what?
MELANIE
This.
GARRETT
So you are just giving up? You keep this huge secret from meand you cant handle it
when the whole thing blows up in your face.
MELANIE
Its not just this, its everything!
GARRETTAnd walking away from me will magically fix all of that? Where will you go? Your father
certainly wont let you back home, even if your mother wanted you to what is so
terrible about me and this that, you cant stand.
MELANIE
Its not you, its me!
(Silence. MELANIE stares down at the ring in her hand.)
I am running away from myself. I lied to you, lied to your mom, lied to my friends. Im a
mess and I didnt even let myself feel. I was so scared of falling apart.
GARRETT
Mel, you dont always have to stay strong.
MELANIE
But I do. I dont know how to be any other way. I was raised to be strong and
independent. Dont get involved in a relationship unless you are ready to be alone, he
always said.
GARRETT
You are notalone. And he was a bastard for telling you that; just add it to the ever
lengthening list of his parenting screw-ups.
MELANIE
But
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GARRETT
but nothing! He was wrong. I am here for you, I will always be here for you. Not
matter what.
MELANIE
Doesnt feel like it sometimes.
(Pause.)
Sometimes it feels like you dont see how much pain I am in, all the tears that are just
waiting to be ahead from my eyes. Sometime I feel like the world has forgotten me, and
the scarier part is sometimes I feel glad.
(Pause.)
Because if the world has forgotten me, then I dont have to hid anymore. It gets so hard
sometimes to just hid all this pain and heartbreak.
GARRETTWhy do you hid it from me? You have seen me at my worst tears, bad temper and all.
Why cant you just let me in? Why cant you trust me?
(MELANIE flinches at the word trust.)
After all this time, all we have been through, trustis still the problem?
MELANIE
You wouldnt understand.
GARRETT
Try me.
MELANIE
I am already broken too much, been hurt too many times. One more time, and I dont
know how I will wake up in the morning if I will want to wake up in the morning
GARRETT
Dont talk like that.
MELANIE
But its true. You wanted the truth, here it is. Sometimes I just want to pain to stop, and at
those points I dont care how.
(MELANIE starts to become emotionally detached as her confession
continues.)
Remember that one time, I was in so much pain, and was really sick, so sick you almost
took me to the ER. That was one of those times. I just kept thinking that if I just went to
sleep, I wouldnt hurt anymore Didnt work out the way I planned it too.
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GARRETT
What did you do? What did you take?!
MELANIE
Just some pain pills, they where supposed to make me numb and sleepy guess I took
too many
GARRETT
How many?
MELANIE
What does it matter, it didnt work
GARRETTYou tried to kill yourself, and you say it doesnt matter?! What is wrong with you, dont
you care about anything enough to live. Did you even think about what that would do to
me?
MELANIE
I just wanted the pain to go away.
GARRETT
(Walks purposely towards MELANIE and roughly grabs her chin, forcing
her to look him in the eyes)Thats never the answer. You hear me, never. I cant lose you.
MELANIE
Maybe you would be better off without me, less of a hassle.
GARRETT
(Yelling.) No!
MELANIE
(Jumps slightly, startled at the loudness of GARRETTs voice.)
Why do you care so much for me? The girl with so many problems. The child her parents
didnt want. The person everyone made fun of in school. Why me?
GARRETT
Because you are special.
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MELANIE
Yeah, right.
GARRETT
You are, you just cant see it right now. You are the most kind and caring person I know.
You have taken care of me for so long, let me take care of you, this once.
(GARRETT tries to pull MELANIE back into his arms, to hold her but she
begins to struggle.)
Melanie, Im not trying to hurt you. Trust me.
MELANIE
(Struggling to break out of GARRETTs hold of her.)
Let me go, please just let me go.
GARRETTNo, Im not going to let you run away and hide. That wont fix anything.
MELANIE
(Becoming frantic and a little hysterical, as she continues to struggle.)
Please, just please. Garrett
GARRETT
Im not like your father, Im not him. But you have to let me help you.
MELANIE
(Something snaps in her.)
No!
(She violently pulls herself away from GARRETT, and in his surprise, his
grip loosens, allowing her to pull free. He tries to grab her again, this time
a little hard than he means to, and MELANIE reacts, badly. She struggles,
and seems in pain.)
GARRETT
Melan
(MELANIE slaps him in the face, hard. GARRETT instantly lets go, more
out of shock than pain. MELANIE freezes in shock, realizing what she
has just done. GARRETT just stands there.
MELANIE
I should go.
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GARRETT
Yeah
MELANIE
Garrett I didnt mean
GARRETT
You said you where leaving
MELANIE
Yeah
(Looks down at her hands, realizing the engagement ring is still in her
other hand. Pauses for a moment, then turns, setting the ring down on the
table as she leaves. She stops right before exiting, but doesnt turn back
around.)Maybe I could see if Dr. Lockwood could see us both at my next session
GARRETT
No, I think I have quite enough of what therapy does.
MELANIE
But maybe
GARRETT
Therapy is what caused this, do you really think it will helpfixthis?
MELANIE
I dont know I was just
GARRETT
You went to therapy to talk about your past and your father when did I become an issue
too?
(MELANIE turns, pain and guilt etched into her features. GARRETT isnt
even looking at her, his face blank and expressionless.)
MELANIE
I never meant to hurt you. You just needed to let me go a bit, give me a second, some
space something.
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GARRETT
I have been trying to do that, but you couldnt keep running forever. Maybe I should
never have suggested therapy
MELANIE
I could try harder try to be more open
GARRETT
With him? But not with me?
MELANIE
I didnt mean it like that.
GARRETT
Thats how it sounded.(Pause.)
I think you should go now.
MELANIE
So I have to choose
GARRETT
What you do with your life is up to you. That much you have made perfectly clear.
MELANIE
So you wouldnt want to get some help.
GARRETT
Therapy wont fix this fix us.
MELANIE
Garrett
GARRETTThis is your choice let me know when youve made it.
(GARRETT turns and exits opposite of MELANIE. There is silence.
During that moment, MELANIE takes a step toward where GARRETT
has just left, but then pause. Her face shows the inner turmoil of her
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Scene 4
SETTING (Later. In the house. The atmosphere of the place is
somber and void of emotion, with an air of
brokenness. GARRETT is sitting on the sofa, a
bleak expression on his face.)
MELANIE
Hello?
(No response GARRET doesnt react.)
Garret
(Comes to stand next to GARRET.)
Im sorry.(Pause.)
Are you even listening to me?
(Pause.)
I did it no more therapy.
(Pause.)
Did you hear me? Im done please, love, could you just look at me?
(Sits down but there is a noticeable space between them.)
Honey?
(Touches his arm tentatively.)
GARRETT
I heard you.
MELANIE
And?
GARRETT
Good.
MELANIE
Are you happy now?
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MELANIE
And instead I hurt you.
GARRETT
I can take it.
MELANIE
I lied to you.
GARRETT
I understand why you did it, and I forgive you.
MELANIE
Can we agree that we both made mistakes?
GARRETT
Yes, but I cant promise that I wont make more.
MELANIE
I wouldnt want you any other way.
GARRETT
So can we fix this?
MELANIE
Id like to try. Im sorry I hit you.
GARRETT
Im sorry I pushed you too hard. And for yelling at you.
MELANIE
Didnt we just agree that we both make mistakes?
GARRETT
Sorry.
MELANIE
So what now?
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GARRETT
(Taking a deep breath.)
Thats up to you.
MELANIE
What happened to us being in a partnership?
GARRETT
Again thats up to you.
MELANIE
What are you talking about?
GARRETT
(Takes another deep breath, before slowly getting of the sofa and down onone knee in front of MELANIE)
Fixing us.
MELANIE
What are you doing?
GARRETT
(Pulls a simple black velvet ring box from his jeans pocket, all the while
starring intently into MELANIEs eyes.)
Melanie Grace Swanson, you are my best friend, and the only woman in the world whom
I wish to spend the rest of my life with. We may not always agree, or get it right, but
know that I will alway fight for you, and love you. I can be stubborn, pig-headed, a jerk,
and a lot of other terrible things. But I know that being with you has made me a better
person, made me want to be the man you deserve. And I promise from this day on, to
alway say I love you, to never let you feel alone or unappreciated, and to always be here
to talk to when you need me.
(Opens the ring box, to reveal not just the solitaire engagement band, but
an enhancer band as well, with two large diamonds set in prongs, with
three other smaller diamonds on either side, set into the band itself.
MELANIE gasps, and looks up at GARRET, at a loss for words.)
I know I have already proposed once, and I was saving this for our anniversary, but now
is just as good a time. Will you, Melanie Grace Swanson, accept the humble apologies of
a very flawed man, and promise to spend the rest of our lives making happy memories.
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(MELANIE smiles brightly up at GARRETT, and they interlock hands,
and walk off stage.)
END OF SCENE
END OF ACT
END OF PLAY
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