**A Day at the Library -- Collection of References**
You step off the bus, greeted by the brisk air nipping your nose. It had been a quiet trip over to the library, considering it was a Saturday afternoon.
As the bus rolled through the intersection to continue on it's route, it slowly revealed the Eastcliff Central Library. It was huge, towering over the rest of downtown Eastcliff.
Your eyes drift to the pavement as you cross the street, your steps quick, but silent. When your foot makes contact with the opposite sidewalk, you glance up at the front door of the library.
From far away, the door seems like nothing much; just a very tall door made out of some sort of brown wood.
[[You reach your hand out as you step closer...->The Door]]
And stop abruptly.
While the door may have seemed plain from afar, closer inspection revealed otherwise. You stop to gaze at the intricate carvings that start just above the handle.
Instead of grabbing the handle, you trace your finger softly against what looks like two footprints. They're side-by-side and about the size of your hand.
Your gaze drifts up to see a line extending upwards from these footprints. Farther up the door, the line branches into 5 patterns, each reaching endlessly to the top of the doorframe.
You notice the words “Electio sit potens.” carved intermittently among the patterns.
"I don’t know a damn thing about Latin," you mutter under your breath.
You put your hand back on the handle and pull.
[[As the door swings open...->Library Main]]
The interior of the library is revealed. You step inside, and your eyes are immediately drawn to the skylights that cover the ceiling. You can see the overcast sky, the grey hues accentuated through the glass.
You notice the rows and rows of bookshelves, extending a couple hundred feet in front of you. They start just behind the information desk, where a white-haired elderly lady is perched, reading a copy of *Pride and Prejudice*. She seems thoroughly engrossed.
There's a clear pathway that extends down the middle of the library, branching off into the expansive collection of books. Before this pathway starts, there are desks and computers on the left, as well as couches and a Keurig, of all things, to the right.
After your eyes have finished sweeping the place, you think to yourself...
[["This place is amazing!"->Positive Track Starter]]
[["A pretty standard library if you ask me."->Efficient Track Starter]]
[["I would rather be playing video games."->Skeptical Track Starter]]
You walk down the rows of bookshelves, glancing to the left and right at the books surrounding you. There are quiet, isolated places to work towards the end of the rows you walk past, but as you glance foward, something catches your eye.
[[As you walk closer...->Positive Plaque]]
You walk down the rows of bookshelves, glancing to the left and right at the books surrounding you. There are quiet, isolated places to work towards the end of the rows you walk past, but as you glance foward, something catches your eye.
[[As you look closer...->Moderate Plaque]]
You walk down the rows of bookshelves, glancing to the left and right at the books surrounding you. There are quiet, isolated places to work towards the end of the rows you walk past, but as you glance foward, something catches your eye. A large plaque on the wall seems to beckon you forward, unfortunately.
[[I suppose I should see what it says...->Warning Plaque]]
You notice an ornate plaque on the wall at the end of the rows of bookshelves. Chiseled precisely into the plaque is, "May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears."
You smile at the quote, and turn back around to take in the library again. Your eyes are drawn to the little signs attached to the top of various bookshelves, identifying the different genres of books available.
The four most attractive signs are for the drama section, the mystery section, the science fiction section, and the fantasy section. Each of the signs has small, symbolic drawings that showcase tropes and themes that are common among the genre.
You decide, before starting your homework, to check out...
[[Drama (complete)->Drama Story Starter]]
[[Mystery->Mystery Story Starter]]
[[Science Fiction->Science Story Starter]]
[[Fantasy->Fantasy Story Starter]]
You notice an ornate plaque on the wall at the end of the rows of bookshelves. Chiseled precisely into the plaque is, "Everything in your life is a reflection of a choice you have made."
You mull the quote over in your head and turn back around with a sigh, glancing around the library once again.
Your eyes are drawn to four sections of the bookshelves, each set off with a colorful sign. It might be worth the time to check out a book or two before getting to work on some homework. Who knows? You might find something to help you out with your assignment.
You decide to start walking towards...
[[Drama (complete)->Drama Story Starter]]
[[Mystery->Mystery Story Starter]]
[[Science Fiction->Science Story Starter]]
[[Fantasy->Fantasy Story Starter]]
You walk closer and notice the details engraved into the background. The intricate details surround a quote that says, "You are free to make your choices, but you are not free to choose the consequences."
You scowl a little in response, irritated at the useless quote. You wheel around, eyes darting to find what you need so you can leave as soon as possible. Homework is definitely not a worthy pasttime.
However, your eyes are drawn to a couple signs attached to the top of various booksheleves. They signfy where various genres are located. There are four that are decorated with the same amount of detail as the plaque: drama, mystery, science fiction, and fantasy.
Procrastination never hurt anyone, especially you. Thus, you begin to start walking towards...
[[Drama (complete)->Drama Story Starter]]
[[Mystery->Mystery Story Starter]]
[[Science Fiction->Science Story Starter]]
[[Fantasy->Fantasy Story Starter]]
You walk towards the sign, emblazoned with purple letters spelling out "Drama." There are two small drawings, flanking the word. One is a gavel, and the other is two figures kissing.
Your eyes drift down to the books lining the shelves, and you notice one that's sticking a little farther out than the rest. It's towards the end of the aisle, so you pick up your pace to reach it quickly.
As you reach out and pull the rather large book from the shelf, you notice the title: //A Selection of Modern-Day Drama//.
[[You say to yourself, "If that isn't a reflection of my life right now...->Crush in Reality]]
You walk towards the sign, emblazoned with blue letters spelling out "Mystery." There are two small drawings, flanking the word. One is a cop badge, and the other is a magnifying glass.
Your eyes drift down to the books lining the shelves, and you notice one that's sticking a little farther out than the rest. It's towards the end of the aisle, so you pick up your pace to reach it quickly.
As you reach out and pull the rather large book from the shelf, you notice the title: //A Selection of Modern-Day Mysteries//.
''To be continued...''
You walk towards the sign, emblazoned with purple letters spelling out "Science Fiction." There are two small drawings, flanking the word. One is the Earth, and the other is of a gear.
Your eyes drift down to the books lining the shelves, and you notice one that's sticking a little farther out than the rest. It's towards the end of the aisle, so you pick up your pace to reach it quickly.
As you reach out and pull the rather large book from the shelf, you notice the title: //A Selection of Science Fiction//.
''To be continued...''
You walk towards the sign, emblazoned with purple letters spelling out "Drama." There are two small drawings, flanking the word. One is a castle, and the other is a sword laying by a shield.
Your eyes drift down to the books lining the shelves, and you notice one that's sticking a little farther out than the rest. It's towards the end of the aisle, so you pick up your pace to reach it quickly.
As you reach out and pull the rather large book from the shelf, you notice the title: //A Selection of Fantasy//.
''To be continued...''
...I don't know what is!"
Recently, you've developed a crush on one of your classmates. You see them every other day in your History 205 class. Since day one of that class, you've been sitting by each other. You've shared pencils, paper, and now, flirty glances, cute laughs, and 27 notes passed back and forth. You've kept count, of course, because you've got a full-on crush.
However, crushes are full of drama. You don't know if they like you as much as you like them. You're worried every time they smile at someone else the same way they smile at you.
It would just be easier if to have clear signs, or at least some advice, wouldn't it? But your friends tease you for having a crush, because the choice you've made isn't entirely ideal. Your crush isn't popular, isn't objectively hot, and doesn't really have a presence unless you dig deeper. That's what you've been trying to do, but everyone else just sees them on the surface.
You remove those thoughts from the forefront of your mind as you open up the book to the table of contents. There are two sections that really speak to you. You place your finger on...
[["Laura's Decision"->Relationship Drama]]
[["Choose Your Order in the Court"->Court Drama]]
...and flip to page 156. You begin to read about Laura, a college-aged, brown-haired, green-eyed woman sitting down to a meal with her best friend, Hope:
The atmosphere of the restaurant was lively and colorful. This Mexican restaurant was the perfect spot for Laura and Hope to chat and catch up on weekly gossip. Plus, it was Taco Tuesday!
"Hope, I've got something really important," Laura said, "but you have to hear the whole story first before you comment, ok?"
"Fine," said Hope, "lay it on me."
"Ok, so, there's this guy in my history class, you know that gen. ed. one I have to take? He sits in my row, and we made eye contact early last week. I smiled at him, and he smiled back, but then like ten minutes later, he passed me a note! It was one of those notes we used to make in middle school with the 'Check Yes' or 'Check No' boxes, only he wasn't asking me out at first. He just wanted to ask me questions."
Laura paused to take a breath.
"This sounds like it's going somewhere positive," remarked Hope.
Laura gave her a look, "You know I can't tell when you're using sarcasm, so that had better been sincere. Anyways, today, in class, he passed me a note just like usual, but this time //was// asking me out on a date! Usually, I just check a box and give it back, since the questions are simple. But this question wasn't simple at all! I don't know what to say. I mean, he's not the cutest, but he is nice. We've chatted only through those notes, but maybe we would have more in common if we went on a date? What do you think?"
[[Hope said, "Laura, you should go for it, this could really be something special."->Positive Start]]
[[Hope said, "Just give him a shot, but don’t expect anything."->Moderate Start]]
[[Hope said, "Laura, do you know how shallow you sound right now?"->Short Ending]]
You turn to the page listed -- page 213 -- and find a script for a courtroom drama. No surprise there, given the title.
There are six characters listed for this script: Judge Collyweston, the Bailiff, the prosecutor (Wesley Tommyrot), the defendant (Bertrand Cassady), and two members of the jury (Ms. Quinn and Mr. Hugo).
You puzzle over the names for these characters and wonder if there's signficance behind their names. Authors sometimes do that, especially those that are writing allegories.
You shake the distractions from your head, because you won't know the answer to that until you read the story, after all.
[[The scene begins...->Opening]]
"You're right! I knew the feelings I was having weren't crazy. It just feels like this guy could be The One, you know?"
Hope nodded back and reached to take Laura's hand in hers.
"Best of luck, and don't fuck it up, girl!"
Laura beamed back at Hope and took out the note from her backpack. She checked the "Yes" box and placed it tenderly back in her backpack, eager to go to class the next day.
When she went to class the next day, she tapped her foot under her desk and waited for her crush to walk in. He came not just five minutes later and sat down right next to her, as per usual. She slid the note out of her backpack and gave it to him, a big smile on her face. He unfolded the note, looked at the checked box, and smiled right back.
Fast forwarding to two nights later, Laura and her crush, Chris, were eating dinner at Applebee's. They were having a great time, talking, laughing, the usual good first date routine.
About thirty minutes into their date, another woman stared stomping her way to their table. She had a scowl on her face and her hand clenched into a fist.
[[A scorned lover perhaps?->Positive 1]]
Laura nods in response. "You're right. Remember Daniel? Yeah, that whole relationship didn't go so well. I think you hit the nail on the head though; I expect too much sometimes, or hope that things are going to turn out a certain way. I gotta go with the flow this time around and see what happens."
Hope smiled back, pleased that Laura is listening to her advice.
Laura pulled the note out of her backpack and checked the "Yes" box quickly, a smile planting itself on her face.
The next day, Laura waited eagerly in her seat to give her crush -- Chris -- the note. When he walked into class, he beelined for her and sat down quickly. She pulled out the note and gave it to him, smiling brightly. He unfolded the note and saw the "Yes" box checked. The smile he returned was unparalleled.
[[The next day, around 5:00 p.m...->Date]]
Laura looked startled. "Shallow? I'm being shallow?"
Hope nodded, "Yes, you don't sound like you're that into him. You sound like you're lonely, and believe me, I know what you sound like when you just want to date some for the sake of dating them. That doesn't do anyone any good, and you'd be wasting his time, as well as yours."
Laura sat in stunned silence, just blinking at Hope.
Hope continued, "Look, I am your best friend, so I'm going to tell it like it is. You should wait until you find someone you're really interested in and really happy with on all fronts. Settling is something you've done in the past, and you do it for the sake of feeling wanted. Do you really want to repeat the issues you've encountered in the past?"
[[Laura finally spoke and said, "You're right."->Short Ending 2]]
"...You're right, I am being shallow. I guess it's just nice that someone is paying attention to me."
Laura pulled out the note and checked the "No" box, before folding it back up and slipping it into her backpack again.
"Thanks for being a voice of reason, Hope," Laura said, smiling widely.
Hope smirked back, "Any time, Laura. Sometimes you just need a good friend to tell it like it is. I'll always be that friend for you."
Laura reached across the table and patted Hope's arm as a sign of thanks. They finished their meal, walked back to the dorm they both lived in, and parted ways for the night.
Two days later, Laura walked into her history class and sat down in her regular seat. Her crush walks in, looking eager with a smile on his face.
With a sad smile on her face, Laura handed him the note and said, "I'm sorry, but I'm not ready for that sort of thing."
He unfolds the note and sees the "No" box checked. He gives her a small smile back and says, "I understand, Laura. No pressure on you, I just wanted to take a chance. I would have regretted it if I didn't!"
Soon afterwards, class started.
[["Back to taking notes," Laura thought.->Short Ending 3]]
Laura dutifully took notes for the remainder of class, avoiding eye contact with her previous crush.
...
You close //A Selection of Modern-Day Drama// and place it back on the shelf.
"The was the shortest, most realistic dramatic story I've ever read," you think to yourself.
You decide to follow Laura's example and reevaluation how much you really like this person you're crushing on. Why do you like this person? Are they worth the effort it takes to put in to a potential relationship? Are you two even compatible?
However, a quick glance to the clock sends all those thoughts out of your mind. It's homework time, and you walk over to a desk and begin to plow through the work you brought with you.
Laura looked at this woman and saw the anger twisted into her facial features. She was dressed in blue jeans and a sweatshirt and looked to be around her age.
The woman drew her hand back as she neared the table and slapped Chris across the face without a second thought. Chris blinked, bewildered.
"You bastard! How dare you bring another girl to the restaurant where we had out first date! I can't believe you!"
Chris simply blinked some more at this woman, so she started to snap sharply in his face?
"Hello, earth to Captain Douchebag! Are you even listening to me?"
Laura sat shell-shocked, not sure of what to do or say. Chris still hadn't replied, but instead, sat scared and unsure of how to respond to what just happened.
The woman grew impatient and turned to the side with a huff. She glanced at Laura briefly before saying, "Nevermind, you're a waste of space anyway, Chris."
She turned to Laura and said, "I hope you find a better use for him than I did," before stomping her way back from whence she came.
Once she had left, Chris finally managed to find his voice. He tried to explain what had just happened, but as he rambled on about this past woman's involvement in his life, Laura began to detect something in his voice.
Was it...
[[Nervousness?->Nervous]]
[[He's unsure of himself?->Unsure]]
[[This guy's a damn liar?->Liar]]
Laura cut Chris off mid-sentence and asked, "Are you nervous that I think badly of you right now?"
Chris nodded and gave her a sad smile. "I just don't want you to think I'm wrapped up in other issues with other girls. It's been some time since I saw that woman last, and we didn't do more than go out to eat a couple times. We just didn't have chemistry from my perspective, but she obviously thinks differently. I don't know what really happened, we just fell out of communication."
Laura looked at him sympathetically. "I believe you, don't worry. I'm not here to judge you so quickly and make you on edge. I know you didn't plan for that to happen."
Chris responded, "Of course not, I am a bit mortified right now."
[[Laura reached across the table...->Positive 2]]
Laura stopped Chris from talking mid-sentence and said, "Are you feeling unsure about what just happened? You looked rather perplexed at her words and actions, like you didn't know who she was."
Chris shook his head and responded, "No, that's my ex-girlfriend. She's not the most recent one, and I honestly thought she forgot about me. I wasn't the best in that relationship."
From there, Chris began to ramble, "You see, we dated for only a couple months, but in that time, things just moved very, very fast. We became official right after that first date she mentioned. I didn't really feel comfortable with all that had happened by the time I wanted to break up with her, but I didn't know how to communicate that with her. She and I just broke apart, and boy was it messy. She set some of my stuff on fire and...oh gosh, have I said too much?"
He looked at Laura with concern in his eyes and asks, "Are you ok?"
[[Yeah, I'm ok with all that.->Ok]]
[[I think you’ve got some things to work on…->Fix Yourself]]
Laura held up her hand and stopped Chris in the middle of a sentence.
"Look, I don't really want to hear your excuses. Clearly, you have some unresolved issues with past girlfriends or flings. I'm not the type to get stuck in the middle of all of that."
"But..." Chris struggled to come up with something to say.
"You're cute," said Laura, "but you're not worth all this drama. Although she didn't target me for anything, who knows who else is lurking around, waiting to send me a dirty message. You need to tie up your loose ends. Whenever you figure that all out, feel free to call me."
Laura stood up, picked up her purse and slung it over her shoulder. She gave Chris one last look and then turned on her heel, walking straight out the door.
Once she arrived home, her phone had been buzzing in her pocket for a good 30 minutes. She pulled it out to check and see how many missed calls she had. 10, along with 5 voicemails. Great.
She walked into her house, shut the door behind her, and walked straight to her bedroom. She threw her purse into the desk chair and put the phone on silent. She put in her headphones and turned up the music on her iPod. Taking once last look at the phone, she shook her head and started on her homework.
[[You close //A Selection of Modern-Day Drama//...->Reality 3]]
...and held his hand in hers. She smoothed her thumbs over the back of his hand and assured him that she was not scared away by that. She recounted an experience where something similar happened, and she understands that others' actions can't be controlled, especially when they feel scorned.
The rest of the date went spendidly. Soon enough, Chris walked Laura home, holding her hand. Both Laura and Chris couldn't stop smiling, and once they reached her doorstep, Chris leaned in to kiss her sweetly. The kiss felt right to Laura, and she pulled away after a moment to beam at Chris.
They shared a couple more kisses and smiles before Chris had to head home. She watched him walk down the sidewalk, waving as he looked back a blew a kiss her way.
[[You close //A Selection of Modern-Day Drama//...->Reality]]
...and smile. You enjoyed the story, and after feeling uplifted by that happy ending, you decide to go ahead and get to work on your homework.
You place the book back on the shelf and find yourself a desk in one of the nooks among the shelves. You pull out your homework and hunker down to get your work done with an invigorated sense of purpose.
Afterwards, you feel inspired and encouraged enough to proceed with plans to get together with your crush.
Chris sighed with relief and the date continued on, picking back up where it was before the interruption.
After eating at the restaurant, Chris took Laura to a popular ice cream spot down the street. Laura ended up getting chocolate and Chris got mint chocolate chip. They walked through the park and ate their ice cream, conversing about life in general. Once they finished the ice cream, they held hands and continued their walk.
Things were going so well that Laura and Chris set up a study date for the following week. They were adament about spending more time with each other, and that was reinforced when they finally reached Laura's front door. Chris leaned in and gave Laura a kiss on the cheek, promising to see her very soon outside of class. Laura blushed and waved goodbye as he headed down the steps and down the sidewalk.
Laura then walked into her apartment and realized that giving Chris a chance was a pretty great idea.
[[You close //A Selection of Modern-Day Drama//...->Reality]]
Chris nodded in response and looked a bit sad. The date finished up in a somber mood, and when the bill arrived, Laura immediately moved to pay for the tip, since Chris has promised to pay for dinner when they planned the date earlier that week.
After putting down money for the tip, Laura grabbed her purse and said goodbye to Chris. As she got up to walk out the door, she looked back slightly. Chris sat with his head in his hands, looking melancholy as could be.
Laura continued out the door and walked all the way back to her apartment. Once she entered her apartment and closed to front door, she realized she maybe got too overemotional and had too many expectations over the prospect of one date. After all, people may have some stones left unturned and loose ends to tie up.
[[You close //A Selection of Modern-Day Drama//...->Reality 2]]
...and reflect on your crush in your class. Maybe you should take a chance with them, but not expect too much out of it. After all, people could have stones unturned and loose ends to tie up.
You make a mental note to keep that line tucked away for future use.
You place the book back on the shelf and get to work on your homework. That's why you came to the library, after all.
...and frown. You think to youself how...realistic (?) that ending was. You contemplate your own situation and relate it to what you just read. Maybe you should follow the advice that Laura seems to be giving you: get to your homework and stop delving into romantic drama!
You place the book back on the shelf and do just that.
...Laura and Chris met in the coffee shop a few blocks away from campus. They chatted for awhile, deciding to take a walk once they had finished their drinks.
The whole date was filled with laughted and good conversation. They decided to walk through the park, and in the middle of the park was a fountain. As they approached the fountain, Chris nudged Laura with his elbow. They stopped and he pulled out a coin.
"Do you want to throw this in the fountain? You could make a wish!" Chris said.
[[Sure!->Yes]]
[[No thanks, but you should throw one.->You Throw]]
[[Why waste your money?->No]]
Laura took the coin from Chris and closed her eyes. She wished the date would turn into something more and that she would be able to see Chris again soon.
Laura tossed the coin in the fountain and stepped back, pleased with what she had wished for. Chris walked up to her and took her hand, leading her down a path that eventually led out of the park.
As they walked out of the park and towards Laura's apartment, they talked about life, school, their interests, and eventually, they started talking about music.
Once they arrived at that topic, Chris brought up a concert that was going on in a couple weeks.
"I've got tickets, and I was wondering if you'd like to go with me?"
[[Accept->More Yes]]
[[Decline->Nope]]
Chris nodded back in response, turning to face the fountain. He walked a few steps forward and closed his eyes. After a few moments, Chris tossed the coin in the fountain. Laura walked up to Chris and asked what he wished for.
"It's a secret, I can't tell you! Otherwise it won't come true."
He grabbed Laura's hand and steered them towards a bench. They both reached the bench and sat down, still holding hands. Chris shifted after a few minutes so that he could put his arm over Laura' shoulders.
He turned his head to look at Laura and asked, "How are you feeling right now?"
Laura replies...
[["I’m feeling really great being here with you."->Flirty]]
[["I’m feeling alright, it’s a bit chilly out."->Meh]]
[["I really just want to go home."->Shut Down]]
Chris gave Laura a quizzical look, surprised at the tone of her voice. Laura shot a look right back at him, and he looked a bit startled.
Chris' body language changed, reflecting the shock he's feeling from Laura's response to his question. Laura and Chris walked side-by-side past the fountain. Both were silent, not sure of what to say. Eventually, as they continued to walk, Chris said, "You've never said anything negative like that before. Are you ok?"
[[Laura responds, "I'm fine..."->No 2]]
"...I just don't like the idea of wasting money on something so childish."
Chris shot back, "It was supposed to be sweet, but clearly I misread your personality. I thought you were more fun-loving than that."
Laura looked at Chris intently and said...
[[I'm sorry, I was pretty rude.->Apologize]]
[[Clearly, you were wrong.->Rude]]
Chris smiled slightly and said, "It's alright. I was just surprised is all. I'm glad you're not sugarcoating your opinions though. That makes me feel like you're being real with me, which I appreciate. Maybe we should get to know each other better before out next date. I definitely like you, but I want to make sure I know you better before I think about anything more serious."
Laura nodded and smiled back, taking his hand in hers and kissing the back of it. They walked back to Laura's apartment hand-in-hand, and once they reach her doorstep, Chris promised to text Laura once he gets home. He kissed Laura on the cheek and decended the steps slowly, looking back mid-way down to wave goodbye.
[[Later that night...->Apologize 1]]
Chris opened his mouth to say something but then abruptly shut it. Everything ended after that moment very abruptly. Chris and Laura started to walk towards Laura's apartment, and the parting at the doorstep was beyond awkward. Chris managed to mumble something as he was leaving, possibly about making the mistake of getting his hopes up.
Laura shrugged and walked into her apartment. She went through her evening routine and then went to sleep.
[[You close //A Selection of Modern-Day Drama//...->Reality 5]]
...Laura was about to curl up in bed, intent on going to sleep. Just as she was about to close her eyes and flip on her side to sleep, a text came up on her phone. The text was from Chris, letting her know that he got home safe.
In his text, he also mentioned that he had some expectations going into their first date, and that was wrong of him. He expressed that he wanted to get together with her soon, just to chat and get to know each other better.
Laura read the text with a smile and set her phone down afterwards. Sleep was waiting for her.
[[You close //A Selection of Modern-Day Drama//...->Reality 4]]
...and think that it might be a good idea to get to know this guy you have a crush on better before getting your hopes up. He's human, after all, and you have no control on his feelings and actions. It should be your goal to get to know him better and gauge if you'd get along with him well in a serious setting.
You decide to do just that in the coming week. But for now, it was time to do your homework. After all, that's why you were at the library in the first place.
..and think that maybe dating is really too difficult. You consider academics and figure that you'd rather pass the classes you're paying for, rather than deal with the dating scene.
You glance at the clock and decide to get to work on your homework. You place the book back on the shelf and find a desk to work at. You're gonna kick some academic ass today!
Chris beamed at Laura and gave her a kiss on the cheek, squeezing her hand gently in his.
They continued their walk to Laura's apartment, and once they reached the doorstop, Chris pulled Laura close and kissed her. She kissed him back, but it felt wrong. It all felt...too familiar, and Laura barely managed to give Chris a smile and a wave as he walked away, heading home.
Laura finally went to bed, and as she was laying there, Laura wondered if she should keep seeing Chris. She just agreed to go on another date with him, but the chemistry between them didn't seem to be the greatest. What was she going to do?
[[The story ended there...->Reality 6]]
Chris looked a little disheartened at Laura's reply, but he smiled back weakly. He held Laura's hand still as they walked towards Laura's house.
On the doorstep, Laura turned to look at him. Just as she turned her head, Chris planted a kiss on her lips before she could say anything.
Laura stood wide-eyed and surprised. She had intended to tell Chris that she wanted to be just friends, but this kiss...
It felt so right that she reconsidered her original thoughts. She kissed him back just as strongly, and once they parted, she cleared her throat.
Chris was beaming at her, and Laura managed to say, "I know I said I couldn't go to the concert, but maybe we could study together next week for that upcoming test. We could even grab dinner beforehand if you'd like."
Before she knew it, she was being kissed again. Chris was obviously very happy with her proposal, so she took his response to her question as a yes.
Soon, they parted ways. Laura walked into her apartment and went through her evening routine. As she was laying in bed, getting ready to fall asleep, she thought very deeply about what had happened today. She concluded just before her eyes closed that the unexpected always shows up when you least expect it.
[[You close //A Selection of Modern-Day Drama//...->Reality 7]]
...and you began to flip pages, searching for some clue as to what happens. You finally locate a re-direction: "See the sequel //Laura's Predicament// to find out what happens!"
You close //A Selection of Modern-Day Drama// and place it back on the shelf. You begin to search on the shelf for a book called //Laura's Predicament//, but you can't find anything of the sort.
You walk out of the aisle and search for the reference desk so you can ask the librarian about the book. You find an older lady with a nametag that reads "Cheryl." You ask her about //Laura's Predicament// and she smiles wistfully.
She tells you it was never written, because the author decided that it would be too much like advice on what to do, rather than thought-provoking. She intended her stories to not give direct advice, but rather, have readers think deeply about their own realities as part of the reflection process.
You thank Cheryl and sigh. You reflect back on your crush, but you're not sure of what to do in regards to them. However, homework is more important at the moment, since you didn't have a definitive answer or ending to draw from.
You find a computer and log on, pulling out a textbook and a notebook to begin on some of the assignments you have due the next day.
...and think about the person you have a crush on. The expectations you may have right now for this person might ruin anything that may happen between you.
You decide to take a page from this book (figuratively, not literally) and let things happen naturally. For now, it's better to go with the flow, which is homework at the present moment.
You place the book back on the shelf and find a desk to work at, fully intending to crank out this homework before the next hour had passed.
Chris leaned in immediately and planted a kiss right on Laura's lips sweetly. She kissed him back just as sweetly, happy to be sitting by him on a bench in the park.
She started to think about how great his lips felt on hers, and she smiled at him once they parted.
Chris leaned in presently and whispered, "My wish was to spend more time with you. There's a concert in a couple week, and if you'd like to come with me, I'd love to go with you."
[[Accept->Concert Yes]]
[[Decline->Concert No]]
Chris offered his coat to Laura, and she accepted readily. Chris draped the coat over her shoulders, and Laura leaned against him to receive additional warmth.
Laura began talking about class, especially the big assignment that was due in a couple weeks. Chris asked if Laura wanted to get together to work on that assignment at his apartment.
"We could meet up in a couple days, if that would work for you?"
Laura replied...
[["Sure!"->Assignment Yes]]
[["I can't."->Assignment No]]
[["I'd rather work on it alone."->Assignment Fuck No]]
Having his advances shot down so quickly caused Chris to retract his arm from around Laura's shoulders. He looked a little offended at her response and managed to mumble, "I should probably get you home."
Laura and Chris walk to her apartment silently. Once they arrived at the doorstep, he said, "If you want to see me again, just let me know. I'll be waiting on your call."
He squeezed Laura's hand softly and turned to walk down the steps. Once he reached the bottom, he waved to Laura, saying "I'll see you in class tomorrow."
Laura decided, as she closed her front door, that Chris was a bit too hopeful. His expectations are a little overwhelming for her at the moment.
[[You close //A Selection of Modern-Day Drama//...->Reality 8]]
...and think about expectations and making choices. You're fully aware that the choices you make and the expectations you have might affect things with your crush.
For now, homework was of the utmost importance, but in the near future, you fully intend to just go with the flow and not overthink your choices when it comes to the person you like.
Chris' excitement was tangible in the air as he pulled Laura in for a kiss on the cheek. After expressing his love for the band playing at this concert, he checked his watch and realized it was time to walk Laura back home.
Laura took his hand and pulled him up off the bench, squeezing slightly in happiness. Chris and Laura walked back to her apartment, conversing about life and the concert primarily.
At the doorstep of Laura's apartment, Chris gave her a kiss on the lips. Laura returned the kiss and they parted with hope in their hearts regarding the prospect of a new relationship.
[[You close //A Selection of Modern-Day Drama//...->Reality 9]]
Chris looked a little disheartened at Laura's answers but smiled back weakly. He held Laura's hand as they stood up from the bench and headed towards Laura's apartment.
Once they reached the doorstep, Chris took Laura's hand and said, "I guess my wish won't come true after all."
Laura paused and looked at him, really sizing up his features and his epxression. She felt bad for leaving him without an explanation for why she declined, and she responded by saying, "Chris, I'd love to spend time with you. Concerts just really aren't my thing. Besides, I'd rather get the chance to talk to you and get to know you better in a quieter setting. Somewhere more conducive to conversation, you know?"
Chris nodded in response and smiled brightly. He leaned forward and planted a soft kiss on Laura's lips -- just a peck.
He left soon after, promising to text Laura about another time when they could hang out and just chat. Laura fell asleep that night thinking about how the unexpected always shows up when you least expect it.
[[You close //A Selection of Modern-Day Drama//...->Reality 7]]
...and decide to make a move on this guy you’re crushing on. You place the book back on the shelf and walk out of the aisle.
As you reach the main pathway down the aisles of bookshelves, you notice an advertisement for a literature event. It's being held at the library next weekend.
You decide to ask your crush if they'd like to go with you to the library event next weekend right there at then.
But first, you must finish that pesky homework!
Chris smiled in response and pecked Laura's cheek, making her blush profusely.
He menioned that his wish he made at the fountain was getting to spend more with her, and Laura's face turned even more red. Chris chuckled at her softly and remarked that she's adorable when she blushes. Laura, speechless, stood up and took his hand, pulling him up from the bench. She looped her arm in his and together, they started walking towards Laura's apartment.
On the way there, Chris pulled Laura close and whispered in her ear, "I'm thankful you agreed to go on this date with me."
Once they arrived at the doorstep, Laura pulled Chris close by his shirt and kissed him on the lips. He eagerly returned her kiss and once they parted, they smiled at each other for a few moments.
That night, as Laura was going to sleep, she reflected on her doubts earlier while talking to Hope. She, in the end, was right by giving things a chance.
[[You close //A Selection of Modern-Day Drama//...->Reality 10]]
Chris frowned a bit at Laura's response but said he understood.
"If you need help with anything, just let me know, ok?" Chris then took Laura's hand and led her down the sidewalk.
Once Chris and Laura reached Laura's apartment doorstep, Chris pecked her on the cheek. He looked at her intently and said, "When will I be able to see you again?"
"I'll let you know, Chris."
Chris gives Laura a meaningful look. "I really hope you mean that."
Laura pressed a kiss to his lips, "I assure you that I do."
After they had parted, each safe in their beds for the night, Laura took a deep breath. She had a predicament on her hands...she had to figure out a good next date!
[[You close //A Selection of Modern-Day Drama//...->Reality 11]]
Having his advances shot down so quickly caused Chris to retract his arm from around Laura's shoulders. He looked a little offended at her response and managed to mumble, "I should probably get you home."
Laura and Chris walk to her apartment silently. Once they arrived at the doorstep, he said, "If you want to see me again, just let me know. I'll be waiting on your call."
He squeezed Laura's hand softly and turned to walk down the steps. Once he reached the bottom, he waved to Laura, saying "I'll see you in class tomorrow."
Laura decided, as she closed her front door, that Chris was a bit too hopeful. His expectations are a little overwhelming for her at the moment.
[[You close //A Selection of Modern-Day Drama//...->Reality 8]]
...and think you should do the same thing as Laura, possibly making your own move rather than waiting on him. After all, this is the 21st century. If you like someone, go for it!
You resolve to do just that after completing your homework, which was the whole reason you're in the library in the first place, after all!
...and think about how you'd prefer to have to think of a date for you and someone else to go on, rather than if someone wants to go out with you in the first place.
However, those thoughts can wait. It's homework time, and you decide to work at one of the computer stations in the library.
//The scene begins with a traditional courtroom setting. Judge Collyweston is in his seat, the Bailiff is standing to the side, arms crossed in front of him. Both the defendant and the prosecutor are standing at podiums, while the two members of the jury sit off to the side.//
Judge Collyweston: We are gathered here today to bear witness to the union of...wait a second, that’s not what I’m supposed to say here. This is a courtroom, right? Bailiff?
Bailiff: Yes, your honor. This is, indeed, a courtroom.
Judge Collyweston: Very well, let me start again then. Just give me a second to look at the right paper...Ah yes, here we go! It looks like we have an issue of...girlfriend stealing? Am I reading this right? The prosecutor, Wesley Tommyrot, is accusing the defendant, Bertrand Cassady, of stealing his girlfriend? Can you both confirm that’s what I’m here for?
Wesley Tommyrot: Absolutely! This asshole stole my girlfriend and I’m suing him!
Bertrand Cassady: Uhm, I’m not really sure why I’m here, and Wesley you can’t sue someone for girlfriend stealing. That’s not even what happened.
Wesley Tommyrot: Sure I can! I can do anything I damn well please. We’re in court, after all, which means you’re guilty, right?
Bertrand Cassady: Do you even know how to court system works?
Wesley Tommyrot: I don’t care to hear about your smart-talking nonsense, I just want you to pay up for stealing my girl!
//Judge Collyweston slams his gavel down.//
Judge Collyweston: Order! Order! What you mean to tell me is that I came in to preside over a court case early on a Saturday because you’re pissed about someone stealing your girlfriend? What do you think this is? A knock-off version of Judge Judy?
Bailiff: Your honor, that’s exactly what this is.
Judge Collyweston: Well I’ll be damned. I’m not dreaming, right? I could have sworn the certificate I got made me a real judge, not some fake one they put on television for drama. Wouldn’t that be nice if that were true? Then we’d be dealing with a real case.
Wesley Tommyrot: This is a real case! I demand some cash from this girlfriend-stealing prick!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley, is it? I suggest you shut up and let me proceed. This is my courtroom, after all
//Wesley Tommyrot falls silent, one of the jurors, Mr. Hugo, raises his hand.//
Judge Collyweston: You, juror, why are you raising your hand?
[[Mr. Hugo: I have a question...->Hugo's Question]]
[[Mr. Hugo: I have to use the bathroom...->Bathroom]]
[[Mr. Hugo: I’m stretching...sorry!->Stretching]]
Judge Collyweston: You may ask it. Thank you for being so polite and raising your hand, unlike some people...
//Judge Collyweston glares in Wesley Tommyrot’s direction.//
Mr. Hugo: Why exactly are we here? This isn’t a real court case. When I got called in for jury duty, I didn’t think it would be for this.
Judge Collyweston: Not a real court case? Not a real court case?! Excuse me, but this is very real for me and for those involved. Well, maybe just for me, but that’s not the point. We do need to come to a consensus on the matter at hand, and thus, I need others to help reach that conclusion.
Mr. Hugo: Ok, but there’s only two of us here. What if we both disagree on the verdict?
Judge Collyweston: Have you ever seen my show, Mr...?
Mr. Hugo: Hugo. Mr. Hugo. And no, I don’t think I have.
Judge Collyweston: Didn’t anybody brief you before you came out here?
Mr. Hugo: No, I was just brought to this chair. I’ve been sitting here ever since.
Ms. Quinn: The same goes for me. I have no idea what I’m supposed to be doing, especially since this case seems to be over petty jealousy.
Wesley Tommyrot: Who are you calling petty?!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley, shut up and sit down! You don’t have permission to speak. You haven’t even tried to raise your hand.
//Wesley Tommyrot sits down and raises his hand impatiently, but Judge Collyweston pretends not to see him.//
Judge Collyweston: Alright, Mr. Hugo and Ms...?
Ms. Quinn: Quinn.
Judge Collyweston: Ah yes, Mr. Hugo and Ms. Quinn. Please step out of the room with the Bailiff to receive some instructions and clarification as to your role. Bailiff, please make sure you’re back in 5 minutes.
//Mr. Hugo, Ms. Quinn, and the Bailiff step out of the room.//
Judge Collyweston: Now, where were we?
[[Wesley Tommyrot: Can you please call on me? I’ve been raising my hand forever!->Wesley Complaint 1]]
[[//Silence settles over the courtroom.//->Silence 1]]
[[//Bertrand Cassady slowly raises his hand to speak.//->Bertrand 1]]
Judge Collyweston: Why didn’t you use it before you left home? That’s what my mother always told me when I was young!
Mr. Hugo: I didn’t have to go then.
Judge Collyweston: Didn’t have to go then? That’s the oldest excuse in the book. You should have at least tried! You’re an adult, for Pete’s sake!
Mr. Hugo: You’re not my mother, and I still have to use the bathroom.
Judge Collyweston: Fine, you may be excused for the time being, Mr...?
Mr. Hugo: Hugo. Mr. Hugo. Where is the bathroom located?
Judge Collyweston: Bailiff, please show Mr. Hugo to the bathroom. Be quick!
//The Bailiff and Mr. Hugo leave the room.//
Judge Collyweston: Now, where were we?
[[Bertrand Cassady: We were just about to figure out what’s going on with this case.->Figuring it Out]]
[[Wesley Tommyrot: You were about to sentence this douchecanoe to life in prison!->Douchecanoe]]
[[//Silence falls over the courtroom.//->Silence 2]]
Judge Collyweston: Ah, stretching is good for the soul. Please, let’s all take a moment and stretch before we proceed!
//Judge Collyweston stands up and begins to stretch vigorously. Everybody in the room stares at him in disbelief.//
Judge Collyweston: Instead of staring, you all should be stretching! I won’t pay you for this episode if you don’t, Bailiff.
//The Bailiff begins to join in, and reluctantly, so does everyone else.//
Judge Collyweston: That’s it, much better! I like the participation I’m seeing. Who would like a gold start?
//Wesley Tommyrot raises his hand.//
Judge Collyweston: Nobody would like a gold star?
//Wesley Tommyrot begins to jump up and down, waving his hand wildly.//
Judge Collyweston: Alright then! Stretching time is over! Thank you for bringing up that fabulous suggestion, Mr. Hugo.
//Wesley Tommyrot pouts and slumps down in his seat.//
Judge Collyweston: Now, where were we?
[[//Bertrand Cassady slowly raises his hand to speak.//->Bertrand's Hand]]
[[Bertrand Cassady: We were just about to figure out what’s going on with this case.->Bertrand Speaks]]
[[//Nobody responds.//->Utter silence ending]]
Judge Collyweston: Bertrand, do you hear something? Hmmm, no? It must be the wind.
//Judge Collyweston looks around aimlessly, while Bertrand casts side glances at Wesley, who is waving his hand wildly, almost leaping out of his chair. Bertrand raises his hand slowly.//
Judge Collyweston: Ah, Bertrand, do you have an idea of what’s going on? Thank you for raising your hand, by the way!
Bertrand Cassady: I believe you were going to address the case at hand, although I’m not sure how that’s going to happen. And we have to wait for the Bailiff and the jurors to come back.
Judge Collyweston: Of course! We are in a court room, so there must be a case! The girlfriend stealing, I remember now! Thank you Bertrand, would you care for a gold star?
Bertrand Cassady: No thanks, your honor.
//Wesley’s face is turning red in anger at this point.//
Judge Collyweston: Well, Wesley looks to be at the tip of an explosion, maybe you should breathe a bit, hmm? Would that help?
Wesley Tommyrot: No, that wouldn’t help at all!
Judge Collyweston: I don’t need your rudeness in my courtroom. Now, let’s get back to the case, shall we?
Bertrand Cassady: We need the Bailiff and the jurors to come back first.
Judge Collyweston: Ah, yes, that would be helpful, wouldn’t it? Well, until they do come back, I’m going to hum a little tune to myself.
//Judge Collyweston hums “Yankee Doodle” to himself while Bertrand and Wesley look on in confusion and anger, respectively. After about 10 seconds, the Bailiff, Mr. Hugo, and Ms. Quinn walk back into the room. The jurors take their seats.//
Bailiff: Your honor, the jurors have been briefed on their duties while in this courtroom.
Judge Collyweston: Excellent! Now we may proceed. Will the prosecutor, Wesley Tommyrot, please inform us of what has happened?
Wesley Tommyrot: Finally! Ok, so last Friday, I was at a party with this girl I’d been talking to for maybe a couple days. Things were getting rather serious, you know how that goes, right? Anyway, we were at this party, and we were having a good time, dancing, drinking, and so on. But, right in the middle of one of my favorite songs – I was getting down on the dancefloor, no one could touch me! – Bertrand decides to walk into the room. I guess he was at the party too, I have no clue. But this girl, her name is Jennifer, by the way, was by my side one minute, and the next, she was dancing and flirting with Bertrand! Can you believe that? I know she wouldn’t just leave me like that, I mean look at me. It must have been Bertrand’s fault. He probably just grabbed her, and she’s too nice to say no!
Judge Collyweston: Please take a seat, that seems to be enough information from your side. Bertrand Cassady, our defendant, would you like to explain what happened from your side of the story?
Bertrand Cassady: Yes, I would. Like Wesley mentioned, there was a party. I was there for an hour or so, just talking with some friends and lounging around. One of my friends wanted to dance, so he asked me to walk over to the dancefloor with him. I walk into the room where Wesley and Jennifer were, and within minutes, Jennifer walked up to me and asked me to dance with her. I’ve known Jennifer for about a year now – we met in a class. I’ve gone to parties with her before, just as friends, and whenever she wants me to dance with her, either she’s wasted or is trying to get away from somebody she doesn’t want to be around.
Wesley Tommyrot: Objection!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Sit down and shush. Bertrand was quiet throughout your whole spiel, so you need to do the same for him. It’s a story, you can’t object to that.
//Wesley sits back down and pouts.//
Bertrand Cassady: Right, so because she came up to me in the manner that she did, I decided to help her out and dance with her. She might have been a little flirty, but I assure you, we’re friends. She was not dating Wesley, but only getting to know him. I suppose she decided she didn’t want to be around him anymore, but I have no clue why. I just was helping out a friend. And then this dumbnut over here decides to flip out on me like I did something to wrong him.
Wesley Tommyrot: Because you…!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Don’t make me ask you to shut up again, or the Bailiff will have to make you.
//Judge Collyweston winks at the Bailiff. He then checks his watch.//
Judge Collyweston: The time! We are out of time for the length of an episode. We must postpone these accusations and resume for next week’s episode!
//Everyone in the courtroom starts to voice their confusion and frustration, but it falls on deaf ears. Judge Collyweston stands up from his seat and walks right out of the room, with the Bailiff following behind him.//
[[...->Reality 12]]
Judge Collyweston: Nobody knows what’s happening? Or where we were? Bailiff?
//Bailiff shrugs, while Wesley waves his hand wildly.//
Judge Collyweston: Well, I guess I’ll have to make something up. Let me consult my papers again.
//Judge Collyweston fumbles around with some papers while Wesley stands up and approaches his desk, still waving his hand wildly.//
Judge Collyweston: No...this isn’t the right paper. Not this one either...
//Judge Collyweston glances up and jumps a foot out of his chair in surprise.//
Judge Colleyweston: Holy guacamole! Wesley, what in the name of a delicious chip dip are you doing up here?
//Wesley points at his hand.//
Judge Collyweston: Your hand? What’s wrong with your hand?
//Wesley waves it and gives Judge Collyweston an indignant look.//
Judge Collyweston: What? You want to say hello? Hello, Wesley. There, now take your seat again.
//Wesley throws both his hands up and rolls his eyes, stomping back to his seat. Bertrand Cassady looks on the scene in utter disbelief. He raises his hand.//
Judge Collyweston: Ah, Bertrand, do you have an idea of what’s going on? Thank you for raising your hand, by the way!
Bertrand Cassady: I believe you were going to address the case at hand, although I’m not sure how that’s going to happen. And we have to wait for the Bailiff and the jurors to come back.
Judge Collyweston: Of course! We are in a court room, so there must be a case! The girlfriend stealing, I remember now! Thank you Bertrand, would you care for a gold star?
Bertrand Cassady: No thanks, your honor.
//Wesley’s face is turning red in anger at this point.//
Judge Collyweston: Well, Wesley looks to be at the tip of an explosion, maybe you should breathe a bit, hmm? Would that help?
Wesley Tommyrot: No, that wouldn’t help at all!
Judge Collyweston: No need to be rude, Wesley. No gold star for you.
[[Wesley Tommyrot: I don’t want a gold star, I want Bertrand to pay up for stealing my girlfriend!->No Gold Star]]
[[Wesley Tommyrot: Can we just get on with the case?->Moving Along]]
[[//Wesley pouts and folds his arms across his chest.//->Pouting 1]]
Judge Collyweston: Ah, Bertrand, do you have an idea of what’s going on? Thank you for raising your hand, by the way!
Bertrand Cassady: I believe you were going to address the case at hand.
Judge Collyweston: Of course! We are in a courtroom, so there must be a case! The girlfriend stealing, I remember now! Thank you Bertrand, would you care for a gold star?
Bertrand Cassady: No thanks, your honor.
Judge Collyweston: Let’s hear about what happened from both sides. That seems fair, doesn’t it?
Bertrand Cassady: It does seem fair, but we do need the jurors and the Bailiff back in the room before we can do that, don’t we?
Judge Collyweston: That seems right too. Bertrand, you know so much about the court system it seems. Are you sure you’re not a judge yourself?
Bertrand Cassady: No, your honor, I’m actually a human services major. I’m not quite interested in law.
Judge Collyweston: That’s a shame, you have a real knack for information and problem-solving from what I’ve seen of you thus far.
Bertrand Cassady: Thank you, your honor.
//Just then, the Bailiff, Mr. Hugo, and Ms. Quinn walk back into the room. The jurors take their seats and the Bailiff walks to address Judge Collyweston.//
Bailiff: Your honor, the jurors have been informed of their duties while in this courtroom.
Judge Collyweston: Excellent! Now we may proceed. Will the prosecutor, Wesley Tommyrot, please inform us of what has happened?
Wesley Tommyrot: Finally! Ok, so last Friday, I was at a party with this girl I’d been talking to for maybe a couple days. Things were getting rather serious, you know how that goes, right? Anyway, we were at this party, and we were having a good time, dancing, drinking, and so on. But, right in the middle of one of my favorite songs – I was getting down on the dancefloor, no one could touch me! – Bertrand decides to walk into the room. I guess he was at the party too, I have no clue. But this girl, her name is Jennifer, by the way, was by my side one minute, and the next, she was dancing and flirting with Bertrand! Can you believe that? I know she wouldn’t just leave me like that, I mean look at me. It must have been Bertrand’s fault. He probably just grabbed her, and she’s too nice to say no!
Judge Collyweston: Please take a seat, that seems to be enough information from your side. Bertrand Cassady, our defendant, would you like to explain what happened from your side of the story?
Bertrand Cassady: Yes, I would. Like Wesley mentioned, there was a party. I was there for an hour or so, just talking with some friends and lounging around. One of my friends wanted to dance, so he asked me to walk over to the dancefloor with him. I walk into the room where Wesley and Jennifer were, and within minutes, Jennifer walked up to me and asked me to dance with her. I’ve known Jennifer for about a year now – we met in a class. I’ve gone to parties with her before, just as friends, and whenever she wants me to dance with her, either she’s wasted or is trying to get away from somebody she doesn’t want to be around.
Wesley Tommyrot: Objection!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Sit down and shush. Bertrand was quiet throughout your whole spiel, so you need to do the same for him. It’s a story, you can’t object to that.
//Wesley sits back down and pouts.//
Bertrand Cassady: Right, so because she came up to me in the manner that she did, I decided to help her out and dance with her. She might have been a little flirty, but I assure you, we’re friends. She was not dating Wesley, but only getting to know him. I suppose she decided she didn’t want to be around him anymore, but I have no clue why. I just was helping out a friend. And then this dumbnut over here decides to flip out on me like I did something to wrong him.
Wesley Tommyrot: Because you…!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Don’t make me ask you to shut up again, or the Bailiff will have to make you.
//Judge Collyweston winks at the Bailiff. He then checks his watch.//
Judge Collyweston: The time! We are out of time for the length of an episode. We must postpone these accusations and resume for next week’s episode!
//Everyone in the courtroom starts to voice their confusion and frustration, but it falls on deaf ears. Judge Collyweston stands up from his seat and walks right out of the room, with the Bailiff following behind him.//
[[...->Reality 12]]
You close //A Selection of Modern-Day Drama// slowly, thinking...
[[...That was the worst courtroom drama I’ve ever read.->Awful Drama]]
[[...That was complete and utter nonsense.->WTF?]]
[[...I’d actually watch that show. I want to know what happens!…I wonder if it’s on television?->On TV?]]
The characters were completely insane, and the level of stupidity present in the judge and Wesley Tommyrot was unreal. You think back to your crush and have a moment of doubt: "What if they hold some of those same ideas?"
You realize you don't know your crush as well as you thought you did. Before starting something serious, or even making a move, you decide that you're going to invest in getting to know your crush as a person. Bertrand Cassady sounds far more logical and therefore much more attractive. You have no idea if he's gorgeous, but just like your crush, there's a lot under the surface that comes to light when issues arise. That's what counts in the long run, right?
Regardless, you realize it's time to get back to your homework. You place the book back on the shelf and walk to a nearby desk. You put down your backpack, pull out a textbook and a notebook.
You silently resolve to kick your homework's ass and then go home to binge-watch Netflix.
Wesley Tommyrot's words scared you, especially when he was talking about this girl, Jennifer. He was not only creepy, but he was completely misreading her body language. He was willing to blame another man than realize his wrongs.
That's the type of guy to avoid at all costs, and you realize that your crush is more like Bertrand Cassady in that respect. Just like Bertrand, your crush is more logical and friendly. You imagine what Wesley and Bertrand look like, and come to the conclusion that Bertrand is likely not the most immediately attractive person. His personality probably makes him far more attractive than Wesley, though.
You look up to a clock at the wall and realize 45 minutes have passed. You decide homework is more important than potential relationship troubles you may or may not be having (because let's be real, have you made a move yet? Didn't think so...).
You walk over to a computer and log on, pulling out a notebook and a pen simultaneously. You decide you'll finish two assignments and then go eat Chipotle for dinner. After all, it was right down the street. Convenience, what a dream!
If you chose this, you must really like satire. Or drama. Or you're messing with me, just to see what this ending is.
Sorry to rain on your parade, but you're not getting a damn thing out of this ending. No satisfaction. No reflection on that crush you have. There's nothing here for you.
Now, either close this window in your browser, or replay the game. And don't pick this fucking choice again. That show would be terrible; it's supposed to be complete and utter nonesense.
Like really, you had a 33% chance to choose this. You should have chosen one of the other two.
No Netflix or Chipotle for you.
Oh, you don't know what that's referencing?
Start over and pick a different ending for this track. Then you'll understand.
Judge Collyweston: Alright alright, let’s get back to the case, shall we?
Bertrand Cassady: We need the Bailiff and the jurors to come back first.
Judge Collyweston: Ah, yes, that would be helpful, wouldn’t it? Well, until they do come back, I’m going to hum a little tune to myself.
//Judge Collyweston hums “Yankee Doodle” to himself while Bertrand and Wesley look on in confusion and anger, respectively. After about 10 seconds, the Bailiff, Mr. Hugo, and Ms. Quinn walk back into the room. The jurors take their seats.//
Bailiff: Your honor, the jurors have been briefed on their duties while in this courtroom.
Judge Collyweston: Excellent! Now we may proceed. Will the prosecutor, Wesley Tommyrot, please inform us of what has happened?
Wesley Tommyrot: Finally! Ok, so last Friday, I was at a party with this girl I’d been talking to for maybe a couple days. Things were getting rather serious, you know how that goes, right? Anyway, we were at this party, and we were having a good time, dancing, drinking, and so on. But, right in the middle of one of my favorite songs – I was getting down on the dancefloor, no one could touch me! – Bertrand decides to walk into the room. I guess he was at the party too, I have no clue. But this girl, her name is Jennifer, by the way, was by my side one minute, and the next, she was dancing and flirting with Bertrand! Can you believe that? I know she wouldn’t just leave me like that, I mean look at me. It must have been Bertrand’s fault. He probably just grabbed her, and she’s too nice to say no!
Judge Collyweston: Please take a seat, that seems to be enough information from your side. Bertrand Cassady, our defendant, would you like to explain what happened from your side of the story?
Bertrand Cassady: Yes, I would. Like Wesley mentioned, there was a party. I was there for an hour or so, just talking with some friends and lounging around. One of my friends wanted to dance, so he asked me to walk over to the dancefloor with him. I walk into the room where Wesley and Jennifer were, and within minutes, Jennifer walked up to me and asked me to dance with her. I’ve known Jennifer for about a year now – we met in a class. I’ve gone to parties with her before, just as friends, and whenever she wants me to dance with her, either she’s wasted or is trying to get away from somebody she doesn’t want to be around.
Wesley Tommyrot: Objection!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Sit down and shush. Bertrand was quiet throughout your whole spiel, so you need to do the same for him. It’s a story, you can’t object to that.
//Wesley sits back down and pouts.//
Bertrand Cassady: Right, so because she came up to me in the manner that she did, I decided to help her out and dance with her. She might have been a little flirty, but I assure you, we’re friends. She was not dating Wesley, but only getting to know him. I suppose she decided she didn’t want to be around him anymore, but I have no clue why. I just was helping out a friend. And then this dumbnut over here decides to flip out on me like I did something to wrong him.
Wesley Tommyrot: Because you…!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Don’t make me ask you to shut up again, or the Bailiff will have to make you.
[[Wesley Tommyrot: I don’t care! I’m sick of Bertrand’s lies!->Bertrand's Lies]]
[[//Wesley Tommyrot sits and pouts even harder this time. //->Pouting 2]]
Judge Collyweston: Alright alright, let’s get back to the case, shall we?
Bertrand Cassady: We need the Bailiff and the jurors to come back first.
Judge Collyweston: Ah, yes, that would be helpful, wouldn’t it? Well, until they do come back, I’m going to hum a little tune to myself.
//Judge Collyweston hums “Yankee Doodle” to himself while Bertrand and Wesley look on in confusion and anger, respectively. After about 10 seconds, the Bailiff, Mr. Hugo, and Ms. Quinn walk back into the room. The jurors take their seats.//
Bailiff: Your honor, the jurors have been briefed on their duties while in this courtroom.
Judge Collyweston: Excellent! Now we may proceed. Will the prosecutor, Wesley Tommyrot, please inform us of what has happened?
Wesley Tommyrot: Finally! Ok, so last Friday, I was at a party with this girl I’d been talking to for maybe a couple days. Things were getting rather serious, you know how that goes, right? Anyway, we were at this party, and we were having a good time, dancing, drinking, and so on. But, right in the middle of one of my favorite songs – I was getting down on the dancefloor, no one could touch me! – Bertrand decides to walk into the room. I guess he was at the party too, I have no clue. But this girl, her name is Jennifer, by the way, was by my side one minute, and the next, she was dancing and flirting with Bertrand! Can you believe that? I know she wouldn’t just leave me like that, I mean look at me. It must have been Bertrand’s fault. He probably just grabbed her, and she’s too nice to say no!
Judge Collyweston: Please take a seat, that seems to be enough information from your side. Bertrand Cassady, our defendant, would you like to explain what happened from your side of the story?
Bertrand Cassady: Yes, I would. Like Wesley mentioned, there was a party. I was there for an hour or so, just talking with some friends and lounging around. One of my friends wanted to dance, so he asked me to walk over to the dancefloor with him. I walk into the room where Wesley and Jennifer were, and within minutes, Jennifer walked up to me and asked me to dance with her. I’ve known Jennifer for about a year now – we met in a class. I’ve gone to parties with her before, just as friends, and whenever she wants me to dance with her, either she’s wasted or is trying to get away from somebody she doesn’t want to be around.
Wesley Tommyrot: Objection!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Sit down and shush. Bertrand was quiet throughout your whole spiel, so you need to do the same for him. It’s a story, you can’t object to that.
//Wesley sits back down and pouts.//
Bertrand Cassady: Right, so because she came up to me in the manner that she did, I decided to help her out and dance with her. She might have been a little flirty, but I assure you, we’re friends. She was not dating Wesley, but only getting to know him. I suppose she decided she didn’t want to be around him anymore, but I have no clue why. I just was helping out a friend. And then this dumbnut over here decides to flip out on me like I did something to wrong him.
Wesley Tommyrot: Because you…!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Don’t make me ask you to shut up again, or the Bailiff will have to make you.
//Judge Collyweston winks at the Bailiff. He then checks his watch.//
Judge Collyweston: The time! We are out of time for the length of an episode. We must postpone these accusations and resume for next week’s episode!
//Everyone in the courtroom starts to voice their confusion and frustration, but it falls on deaf ears. Judge Collyweston stands up from his seat and walks right out of the room, with the Bailiff following behind him.//
[[...->Reality 12]]
Judge Collyweston: Pouting is for babies, Wesley. Please stop before I have to kick you out. Now, let’s get back to the case, shall we?
Bertrand Cassady: We need the Bailiff and the jurors to come back first.
Judge Collyweston: Ah, yes, that would be helpful, wouldn’t it? Well, until they do come back, I’m going to hum a little tune to myself.
//Judge Collyweston hums “Yankee Doodle” to himself while Bertrand and Wesley look on in confusion and anger, respectively. After about 10 seconds, the Bailiff, Mr. Hugo, and Ms. Quinn walk back into the room. The jurors take their seats.//
Bailiff: Your honor, the jurors have been briefed on their duties while in this courtroom.
Judge Collyweston: Excellent! Now we may proceed. Will the prosecutor, Wesley Tommyrot, please inform us of what has happened?
Wesley Tommyrot: Finally! Ok, so last Friday, I was at a party with this girl I’d been talking to for maybe a couple days. Things were getting rather serious, you know how that goes, right? Anyway, we were at this party, and we were having a good time, dancing, drinking, and so on. But, right in the middle of one of my favorite songs – I was getting down on the dancefloor, no one could touch me! – Bertrand decides to walk into the room. I guess he was at the party too, I have no clue. But this girl, her name is Jennifer, by the way, was by my side one minute, and the next, she was dancing and flirting with Bertrand! Can you believe that? I know she wouldn’t just leave me like that, I mean look at me. It must have been Bertrand’s fault. He probably just grabbed her, and she’s too nice to say no!
Judge Collyweston: Please take a seat, that seems to be enough information from your side. Bertrand Cassady, our defendant, would you like to explain what happened from your side of the story?
Bertrand Cassady: Yes, I would. Like Wesley mentioned, there was a party. I was there for an hour or so, just talking with some friends and lounging around. One of my friends wanted to dance, so he asked me to walk over to the dancefloor with him. I walk into the room where Wesley and Jennifer were, and within minutes, Jennifer walked up to me and asked me to dance with her. I’ve known Jennifer for about a year now – we met in a class. I’ve gone to parties with her before, just as friends, and whenever she wants me to dance with her, either she’s wasted or is trying to get away from somebody she doesn’t want to be around.
Wesley Tommyrot: Objection!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Sit down and shush. Bertrand was quiet throughout your whole spiel, so you need to do the same for him. It’s a story, you can’t object to that.
//Wesley sits back down and pouts some more.//
Bertrand Cassady: Right, so because she came up to me in the manner that she did, I decided to help her out and dance with her. She might have been a little flirty, but I assure you, we’re friends. She was not dating Wesley, but only getting to know him. I suppose she decided she didn’t want to be around him anymore, but I have no clue why. I just was helping out a friend. And then this dumbnut over here decides to flip out on me like I did something to wrong him.
Wesley Tommyrot: Because you…!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Don’t make me ask you to shut up again, or the Bailiff will have to make you.
//Judge Collyweston winks at the Bailiff. He then checks his watch.//
Judge Collyweston: The time! We are out of time for the length of an episode. We must postpone these accusations and resume for next week’s episode!
//Everyone in the courtroom starts to voice their confusion and frustration, but it falls on deaf ears. Judge Collyweston stands up from his seat and walks right out of the room, with the Bailiff following behind him.//
[[...->Reality 12]]
Judge Collyweston: Whether there is truth in what either of you said has yet to be determined, so I would advise against using libelous statements in my courtroom.
Bailiff: Your honor, that was the most judge-like thing you’ve ever said!
Judge Collyweston: Why thank you, Bailiff. I have a few tricks up my sleeve!
//Judge Collyweston winks at the Bailiff. He then checks his watch.//
Judge Collyweston: The time! We are out of time for the length of an episode. We must postpone these accusations and resume for next week’s episode!
//Everyone in the courtroom starts to voice their confusion and frustration, but it falls on deaf ears. Judge Collyweston stands up from his seat and walks right out of the room, with the Bailiff following behind him.//
[[...->Reality 12]]
Judge Collyweston: Well, this case seems like quite the predicament! How do we know who’s telling the truth and who isn’t?
//Everyone looks at Judge Collyweston with disbelief.//
Judge Collyweston: Why are you all starting at me so dubiously?
Bailiff: That was quite the vocabulary word you just used there, your honor.
Judge Collyweston: Really? I thought it was a common word. You mean to tell me you don’t use dubiously on a daily basis?
//Everyone shakes their heads in response.//
Judge Collyweston: That’s strange. This whole case is strange. You know what? I think this is how I’ll decide the outcome of this. Wesley, you’re angry and full of yourself. Your last name even means nonsense, did you know that? Bertrand, you are well-spoken, much like myself, and you seem to be friendly and sincere. Your name even means wise! I hereby declare that Bertrand is not a girlfriend stealer.
//Judge Collyweston pounds the gavel down. Wesley starts to object.//
Judge Collyweston: I don’t want to hear it Wesley. You need to learn more about the court system. Girl troubles are no grounds for suing someone, especially when that person didn’t even steal a girl from you. They’re just friends! And now that I have smacked this gavel down, the verdict is irrefutable.
Bailiff: You’re on a roll, your honor.
Judge Collyweston: I suppose I am. And with that, case closed!
[[...->Reality 12]]
Judge Collyweston: Have we determined anything that has happened yet, or was that just in my imagination?
Bertrand Cassady: No, there hasn’t been anything stated formally for what happened. What’s been stated is pretty much a biased lie from Wesley over here.
Judge Collyweston: Lies? Wesley, are you telling lies? That’s not the way to make friends, you know.
Wesley Tommyrot: I’m not here to make friends. I was trying to get a girlfriend, but this asshat messed it up!
//The Bailiff and Mr. Hugo walk back into the room.//
Judge Collyweston: Asshat? Is that a new slang term? What would a hat you wear on your ass even look like?
Mr. Hugo: What kind of conversation did we just walk into?
//The Bailiff shrugs at him as they both resume their spots in the courtroom.//
Bertrand Cassady: The meaning behind that word is not what’s important here, your honor. I believe it’s my honor that’s really at stake, because I did nothing wrong.
Wesley Tommyrot: Objection!
Judge Collyweston: Objection is a word they use in court! Very good, Wesley. You’re catching on to how this whole thing works!
Wesley Tommyrot: Just make him pay up, please.
Judge Collyweston: Perhaps I spoke too soon. Wesley, this isn’t a case that can get you money. Girlfriend stealing – alleged girlfriend stealing, to be specific – is not something you can sue over. Besides, we don’t do that on this show. It’s all about the drama, you know?
//Mr. Hugo whispers something to Ms. Quinn.//
Judge Collyweston: Secrets also don’t make friends! You two, jurors. What are you whispering about?
[[Mr. Hugo: I was just telling Ms. Quinn about the soaps in the bathroom.->Soaps]]
[[Ms. Quinn: I was informing Mr. Hugo about what he had missed while he was gone.->Missing Info]]
[[//Both of the jurors stare at Judge Collyweston, neither uttering a word.//->Stare Down]]
Judge Collyweston: I used that word? I don’t believe I’ve ever said douchecanoe in my life. I’m not sure now…have I? Have either of you heard me say that before?
//Both Wesley and Bertrand shake their heads.//
Judge Collyweston: Strange...then how could I have given that sentence, Wesley?
Bertrand Cassady: You haven’t, your honor. Wesley is speaking on whims.
Wesley Tommyrot: I am not!
Bertrand Cassady: Do you even know what “whims” means, Wesley?
Wesley Tommyrot: So what if I don’t? What are you going to do about it, huh?
Bertrand Cassady: Absolutely nothing. I’m just proving a point.
//The Bailiff and Mr. Hugo walk back into the room.//
Wesley Tommyrot: And what point is that? I think you’re talking in circles to confuse me.
Bertrand Cassady: It’s not hard to do that, after all.
//Wesley and Bertrand continue to argue. Judge Collyweston speaks to the Bailiff aside://
Judge Collyweston: Isn’t it fascinating how they just go at it like that? Truly remarkable...By the way Bailiff, have I ever said douchecanoe before?
Bailiff: You just said it now, your honor.
Judge Collyweston: By George, I have!
//They turn back to the argument.//
Wesley Tommyrot: I don’t care what you have to say, Bertrand! I just want my money!
Judge Collyweston: If I may cut in, you two. Wesley, this isn’t a case that can get you money. Girlfriend stealing – alleged girlfriend stealing, to be specific – is not something you can sue over. Besides, we don’t do that on this show. It’s all about the drama, you know?
//Mr. Hugo whispers something to Ms. Quinn.//
Judge Collyweston: Secrets also don’t make friends! You two, jurors. What are you whispering about?
[[Mr. Hugo: I was just telling Ms. Quinn about the soaps in the bathroom.->Soaps]]
[[Ms. Quinn: I was informing Mr. Hugo about what he had missed while he was gone.->Missing Info]]
[[//Both of the jurors stare at Judge Collyweston, neither uttering a word.//->Stare Down]]
Judge Collyweston: I suppose we have to wait until those two men come back. Perhaps they’ll know where we were before Mr. Hugo interrupted us. I sure how they have a clue, otherwise this will be pretty awkward, if you ask me.
//Everyone sits quietly. Judge Collyweston start twiddling his thumbs, Bertrand closes his eyes and breathes deeply, Wesley pouts slightly, sliding down in his chair, and Ms. Quinn fidgets in her chair, not sure of what to say or do. After about a minute, the Bailiff and Mr. Hugo walk back in the room.//
Judge Collyweston: Ah, welcome back you two! We had forgotten were we were before the interruption, and we were wondering if either of you remembered.
//Mr. Hugo shrugs and returns to his seat. The Bailiff walks up to Judge Collyweston and whispers something in his ear.//
Judge Collyweston: Thank you, Bailiff. We were on girlfriend-stealing, am I correct?
Wesley Tommyrot: Yes! And I want my money!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley, this isn’t a case that can get you money. Girlfriend stealing – alleged girlfriend stealing, to be specific – is not something you can sue over. Besides, we don’t do that on this show. It’s all about the drama, you know?
//Mr. Hugo whispers something to Ms. Quinn.//
Judge Collyweston: Secrets also don’t make friends! You two, jurors. What are you whispering about?
[[Mr. Hugo: I was just telling Ms. Quinn about the soaps in the bathroom.->Soaps]]
[[Ms. Quinn: I was informing Mr. Hugo about what he had missed while he was gone.->Missing Info]]
[[//Both of the jurors stare at Judge Collyweston, neither uttering a word.//->Stare Down]]
Judge Collyweston: The soaps? I’ve never used the bathroom here. Are they shaped like something cute?
Ms. Quinn: Apparently, they’re in the shape of seashells.
Mr. Hugo: They smell like the ocean too.
//Judge Collyweston claps in delight.//
Judge Collyweston: I love the ocean, and I love seashells! Oh, I must see these for myself. Bailiff, let me run to the bathroom really quick.
//The Bailiff tries to stop Judge Collyweston from going to the bathroom, but he can only get a few words out before Judge Collyweston is out the door, heading to the bathroom. The Bailiff looks around the room and shrugs, standing silently as Mr. Hugo and Ms. Quinn exchange glances. Wesley is pouting in his chair and Bertrand is stretching his arms. Judge Collyweston walks back into the room.//
Judge Collyweston: Those are so adorable! I must get some for my home. Does anyone know where I could buy some of those soaps?
//No one replies, as no one has a clue where to buy decorative soaps.//
Judge Collyweston: Ah well, it was worth a shot. Anyways, we should probably get to the case. Wesley, why don’t you give your statement about what happened.
Wesley Tommyrot: Finally! Ok, so last Friday, I was at a party with this girl I’d been talking to for maybe a couple days. Things were getting rather serious, you know how that goes, right? Anyway, we were at this party, and we were having a good time, dancing, drinking, and so on. But, right in the middle of one of my favorite songs – I was getting down on the dancefloor, no one could touch me! – Bertrand decides to walk into the room. I guess he was at the party too, I have no clue. But this girl, her name is Jennifer, by the way, was by my side one minute, and the next, she was dancing and flirting with Bertrand! Can you believe that? I know she wouldn’t just leave me like that, I mean look at me. It must have been Bertrand’s fault. He probably just grabbed her, and she’s too nice to say no!
Judge Collyweston: You may be seated now. Bertrand, your side of the story now, please.
Bertrand: From my perspective, this is how things happened…Like Wesley mentioned, there was a party. I was there for an hour or so, just talking with some friends and lounging around. One of my friends wanted to dance, so he asked me to walk over to the dancefloor with him. I walk into the room where Wesley and Jennifer were, and within minutes, Jennifer walked up to me and asked me to dance with her. I’ve known Jennifer for about a year now – we met in a class. I’ve gone to parties with her before, just as friends, and whenever she wants me to dance with her, either she’s wasted or is trying to get away from somebody she doesn’t want to be around.
Wesley Tommyrot: Objection!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Sit down and shush. Bertrand was quiet throughout your whole spiel, so you need to do the same for him. It’s a story, you can’t object to that.
//Wesley sits back down and pouts.//
Bertrand Cassady: Right, so because she came up to me in the manner that she did, I decided to help her out and dance with her. She might have been a little flirty, but I assure you, we’re friends. She was not dating Wesley, but only getting to know him. I suppose she decided she didn’t want to be around him anymore, but I have no clue why. I just was helping out a friend. And then Wesley decides to flip out on me like I did something to wrong him.
Wesley Tommyrot: Because you…!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Don’t make me ask you to shut up again, or the Bailiff will have to make you.
//The Bailiff stands up a little straighter and puffs his chest out. Wesley gulps audibly.//
Judge Collyweston: Mr. Hugo, Ms. Quinn, do you have any questions for either Wesley or Bertrand about the incident?
[[//Both jurors shake their heads no.//->Nope, We Don't]]
[[Mr. Hugo: Yes, we have a question for Wesley.->Wesley Question]]
[[Ms. Quinn: Yes, we have a question for Bertrand.->Bertrand Question]]
Judge Collyweston: How splendid! Thank you for taking care of that matter for me. Now we’re all on the same page, right?
Wesley Tommyrot: Wrong! No one’s heard what happened yet!
Bertrand Cassady: For once, I do agree with Wesley. We haven't recounted the incident yet in front of you and jurors.
Judge Collyweston: Well, let’s get on with it then since everyone seems so eager now! Will the prosecutor, Wesley Tommyrot, please give his statement about the incident that recently occurred and has brought you two here?
Wesley Tommyrot: Finally! Ok, so last Friday, I was at a party with this girl I’d been talking to for maybe a couple days. Things were getting rather serious, you know how that goes, right? Anyway, we were at this party, and we were having a good time, dancing, drinking, and so on. But, right in the middle of one of my favorite songs – I was getting down on the dancefloor, no one could touch me! – Bertrand decides to walk into the room. I guess he was at the party too, I have no clue. But this girl, her name is Jennifer, by the way, was by my side one minute, and the next, she was dancing and flirting with Bertrand! Can you believe that? I know she wouldn’t just leave me like that, I mean look at me. It must have been Bertrand’s fault. He probably just grabbed her, and she’s too nice to say no!
Judge Collyweston: You may be seated now. Bertrand, your side of the story now, please.
Bertrand: From my perspective, this is how things happened…Like Wesley mentioned, there was a party. I was there for an hour or so, just talking with some friends and lounging around. One of my friends wanted to dance, so he asked me to walk over to the dancefloor with him. I walk into the room where Wesley and Jennifer were, and within minutes, Jennifer walked up to me and asked me to dance with her. I’ve known Jennifer for about a year now – we met in a class. I’ve gone to parties with her before, just as friends, and whenever she wants me to dance with her, either she’s wasted or is trying to get away from somebody she doesn’t want to be around.
Wesley Tommyrot: Objection!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Sit down and shush. Bertrand was quiet throughout your whole spiel, so you need to do the same for him. It’s a story, you can’t object to that.
//Wesley sits back down and pouts.//
Bertrand Cassady: Right, so because she came up to me in the manner that she did, I decided to help her out and dance with her. She might have been a little flirty, but I assure you, we’re friends. She was not dating Wesley, but only getting to know him. I suppose she decided she didn’t want to be around him anymore, but I have no clue why. I just was helping out a friend. And then Wesley decides to flip out on me like I did something to wrong him.
Wesley Tommyrot: Because you…!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Don’t make me ask you to shut up again, or the Bailiff will have to make you.
//The Bailiff stands up a little straighter and puffs his chest out. Wesley gulps audibly.//
Judge Collyweston: Mr. Hugo, Ms. Quinn, do you have any questions for either Wesley or Bertrand about the incident?
[[//Both jurors shake their heads no.//->Nope, We Don't]]
[[Mr. Hugo: Yes, we have a question for Wesley.->Wesley Question]]
[[Ms. Quinn: Yes, we have a question for Bertrand.->Bertrand Question]]
Judge Collyweston: Ah well, it was worth a shot. Anyways, we should probably get to the case. Wesley, why don’t you give your statement about what happened.
Wesley Tommyrot: Finally! Ok, so last Friday, I was at a party with this girl I’d been talking to for maybe a couple days. Things were getting rather serious, you know how that goes, right? Anyway, we were at this party, and we were having a good time, dancing, drinking, and so on. But, right in the middle of one of my favorite songs – I was getting down on the dancefloor, no one could touch me! – Bertrand decides to walk into the room. I guess he was at the party too, I have no clue. But this girl, her name is Jennifer, by the way, was by my side one minute, and the next, she was dancing and flirting with Bertrand! Can you believe that? I know she wouldn’t just leave me like that, I mean look at me. It must have been Bertrand’s fault. He probably just grabbed her, and she’s too nice to say no!
Judge Collyweston: You may be seated now. Bertrand, your side of the story now, please.
Bertrand: From my perspective, this is how things happened…Like Wesley mentioned, there was a party. I was there for an hour or so, just talking with some friends and lounging around. One of my friends wanted to dance, so he asked me to walk over to the dancefloor with him. I walk into the room where Wesley and Jennifer were, and within minutes, Jennifer walked up to me and asked me to dance with her. I’ve known Jennifer for about a year now – we met in a class. I’ve gone to parties with her before, just as friends, and whenever she wants me to dance with her, either she’s wasted or is trying to get away from somebody she doesn’t want to be around.
Wesley Tommyrot: Objection!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Sit down and shush. Bertrand was quiet throughout your whole spiel, so you need to do the same for him. It’s a story, you can’t object to that.
//Wesley sits back down and pouts.//
Bertrand Cassady: Right, so because she came up to me in the manner that she did, I decided to help her out and dance with her. She might have been a little flirty, but I assure you, we’re friends. She was not dating Wesley, but only getting to know him. I suppose she decided she didn’t want to be around him anymore, but I have no clue why. I just was helping out a friend. And then Wesley decides to flip out on me like I did something to wrong him.
Wesley Tommyrot: Because you…!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Don’t make me ask you to shut up again, or the Bailiff will have to make you.
//The Bailiff stands up a little straighter and puffs his chest out. Wesley gulps audibly.//
Judge Collyweston: Mr. Hugo, Ms. Quinn, do you have any questions for either Wesley or Bertrand about the incident?
[[//Both jurors shake their heads no.//->Nope, We Don't]]
[[Mr. Hugo: Yes, we have a question for Wesley.->Wesley Question]]
[[Ms. Quinn: Yes, we have a question for Bertrand.->Bertrand Question]]
Judge Collyweston: No questions? So it’s up to me now, isn’t it?
Bailiff: It’s actually up to the jurors, your honor. That’s why they’re here, after all.
Judge Collyweston: Well, if that’s the case…I want this case to be a cliffhanger!
//Everyone looks at Judge Collyweston, perplexed.//
Bertrand Cassady: A cliffhanger? What do you mean?
Judge Collyweston: Well this is a courtroom drama, isn’t it? Often times, those shows are left with cliffhangers so that people will come back and watch the episodes. That’s what I want to happen here.
Bertrand Cassady: So there’s no resolution? No verdict?
Wesley Tommyrot: And I don’t get my money?!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley, you aren’t getting money, period. And at least not today Bertrand. We’ll pick up with this next week! Good day, everyone!
//Both the Bailiff and Judge Collyweston exit the room amongst the objections from Wesley, Bertrand, Mr. Hugo, and Ms. Quinn.//
[[...->Reality 12]]
Mr. Hugo: Wesley, did you say that you’ve only known this girl for a couple days?
Wesley Tommyrot: Yes? What’s the got to do with anything?
Ms. Quinn: Was she your girlfriend, officially? Knowing someone for a couple days doesn’t qualify them as such.
Wesley Tommyrot: Well she was going to be if Bertrand didn’t steal her away!
Judge Collyweston: Oooo, this is getting good!
Mr. Hugo: So is she dating Bertrand now? Is she Bertrand’s girlfriend?
Wesley Tommyrot: Why are you asking me all the questions? Ask him that!
Mr. Hugo: Same question to you, Bertrand.
Bertrand Cassady: I already have a girlfriend that isn’t Jennifer. So no, she isn’t.
Ms. Quinn: Wesley, do you understand that he did not steal him away, and that she was not your girlfriend in the first place?
Wesley Tommyrot: No!
//Ms. Quinn looks at him skeptically.//
Judge Collyweston: So, what’s your consensus, jurors?
Ms. Quinn: Bertrand is not guilty. Wesley needs to educate himself on women, among other things.
Wesley Tommyrot: Hey! That was rude!
Ms. Quinn: So are you, kid.
Judge Collyweston: Order! Well, that settles it. Your name is cleared, Bertrand. Case closed!
[[...->Reality 12]]
Ms. Quinn: Have you ever had sexual relations with that woman?
Bertrand: Who? Jennifer? No, I already have a girlfriend. And no, I don’t plan to date or hook up with Jennifer either.
Wesley Tommyrot: Lies! He’s a damn liar!
Judge Collyweston: He swore to tell the truth Wesley. That’s good enough for me.
Wesley Tommyrot: But…!
Judge Collyweston: Enough! Hush, or I’ll have to...do something...legal...
//Everyone stares at Judge Collyweston, perplexed.//
Judge Collyweston: Anyways, jurors, do you have your verdict?
Mr. Hugo: Yes, we do. Bertrand is not guilty. Wesley needs to actually go to class and learn things, instead of partying.
Wesley Tommyrot: Hey! That was rude!
Ms. Quinn: So are you, kid.
Judge Collyweston: Order in the court! Well, that settles it. Your name is cleared, Bertrand. Case closed!
[[...->Reality 12]]
Judge Collyweston: Ah, Bertrand, do you have an idea of what’s going on? Thank you for raising your hand, by the way!
Bertrand Cassady: I believe you were going to address the case at hand, although I’m not sure how that’s going to happen.
Judge Collyweston: Of course! We are in a court room, so there must be a case! The girlfriend stealing, I remember now! Thank you Bertrand, would you care for a gold star?
Bertrand Cassady: No thanks, your honor.
//Wesley’s face is turning red in anger at this point.//
Judge Collyweston: Well, Wesley looks to be at the tip of an explosion, maybe you should breathe a bit, hmm? Would that help?
Wesley Tommyrot: No, that wouldn’t help at all!
Judge Collyweston: I don’t need your rudeness in my courtroom. Now, let’s get back to the case, shall we? Will the prosecutor, Wesley Tommyrot, please inform us of what has happened?
Wesley Tommyrot: Finally! Ok, so last Friday, I was at a party with this girl I’d been talking to for maybe a couple days. Things were getting rather serious, you know how that goes, right? Anyway, we were at this party, and we were having a good time, dancing, drinking, and so on. But, right in the middle of one of my favorite songs – I was getting down on the dancefloor, no one could touch me! – Bertrand decides to walk into the room. I guess he was at the party too, I have no clue. But this girl, her name is Jennifer, by the way, was by my side one minute, and the next, she was dancing and flirting with Bertrand! Can you believe that? I know she wouldn’t just leave me like that, I mean look at me. It must have been Bertrand’s fault. He probably just grabbed her, and she’s too nice to say no!
Judge Collyweston: Please take a seat, that seems to be enough information from your side. Bertrand Cassady, our defendant, would you like to explain what happened from your side of the story?
Bertrand Cassady: Yes, I would. Like Wesley mentioned, there was a party. I was there for an hour or so, just talking with some friends and lounging around. One of my friends wanted to dance, so he asked me to walk over to the dancefloor with him. I walk into the room where Wesley and Jennifer were, and within minutes, Jennifer walked up to me and asked me to dance with her. I’ve known Jennifer for about a year now – we met in a class. I’ve gone to parties with her before, just as friends, and whenever she wants me to dance with her, either she’s wasted or is trying to get away from somebody she doesn’t want to be around.
Wesley Tommyrot: Objection!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Sit down and shush. Bertrand was quiet throughout your whole spiel, so you need to do the same for him. It’s a story, you can’t object to that.
//Wesley sits back down and pouts.//
Bertrand Cassady: Right, so because she came up to me in the manner that she did, I decided to help her out and dance with her. She might have been a little flirty, but I assure you, we’re friends. She was not dating Wesley, but only getting to know him. I suppose she decided she didn’t want to be around him anymore, but I have no clue why. I just was helping out a friend. And then this dumbnut over here decides to flip out on me like I did something to wrong him.
Wesley Tommyrot: Because you…!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Don’t make me ask you to shut up again, or the Bailiff will have to make you.
//Judge Collyweston winks at the Bailiff. He then checks his watch.//
Judge Collyweston: The time! We are out of time for the length of an episode. We must postpone these accusations and resume for next week’s episode!
//Everyone in the courtroom starts to voice their confusion and frustration, but it falls on deaf ears. Judge Collyweston stands up from his seat and walks right out of the room, with the Bailiff following behind him.//
[[...->Reality 12]]
Judge Collyweston: Of course! We are in a court room, so there must be a case! The girlfriend stealing, I remember now! Thank you Bertrand, would you care for a gold star?
Bertrand Cassady: No thanks, your honor.
//Wesley’s face is turning red in anger at this point.//
Judge Collyweston: Well, Wesley looks to be at the tip of an explosion, maybe you should breathe a bit, hmm? Would that help?
Wesley Tommyrot: No, that wouldn’t help at all!
Judge Collyweston: I don’t need your rudeness in my courtroom. Now, let’s get back to the case, shall we? Wesley, please inform us of what has happened. But watch the rudeness, ok?
Wesley Tommyrot: Finally! Ok, so last Friday, I was at a party with this girl I’d been talking to for maybe a couple days. Things were getting rather serious, you know how that goes, right? Anyway, we were at this party, and we were having a good time, dancing, drinking, and so on. But, right in the middle of one of my favorite songs – I was getting down on the dancefloor, no one could touch me! – Bertrand decides to walk into the room. I guess he was at the party too, I have no clue. But this girl, her name is Jennifer, by the way, was by my side one minute, and the next, she was dancing and flirting with Bertrand! Can you believe that? I know she wouldn’t just leave me like that, I mean look at me. It must have been Bertrand’s fault. He probably just grabbed her, and she’s too nice to say no!
Judge Collyweston: Please take a seat, that seems to be enough information from your side. Bertrand Cassady, our defendant, would you like to explain what happened from your side of the story?
Bertrand Cassady: Yes, I would. Like Wesley mentioned, there was a party. I was there for an hour or so, just talking with some friends and lounging around. One of my friends wanted to dance, so he asked me to walk over to the dancefloor with him. I walk into the room where Wesley and Jennifer were, and within minutes, Jennifer walked up to me and asked me to dance with her. I’ve known Jennifer for about a year now – we met in a class. I’ve gone to parties with her before, just as friends, and whenever she wants me to dance with her, either she’s wasted or is trying to get away from somebody she doesn’t want to be around.
Wesley Tommyrot: Objection!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Sit down and shush. Bertrand was quiet throughout your whole spiel, so you need to do the same for him. It’s a story, you can’t object to that.
//Wesley sits back down and pouts.//
Bertrand Cassady: Right, so because she came up to me in the manner that she did, I decided to help her out and dance with her. She might have been a little flirty, but I assure you, we’re friends. She was not dating Wesley, but only getting to know him. I suppose she decided she didn’t want to be around him anymore, but I have no clue why. I just was helping out a friend. And then this dumbnut over here decides to flip out on me like I did something to wrong him.
Wesley Tommyrot: Because you…!
Judge Collyweston: Wesley! Don’t make me ask you to shut up again, or the Bailiff will have to make you.
//The Bailiff stands up a little straighter and puffs his chest out. Wesley gulps audibly.//
Judge Collyweston: Mr. Hugo, Ms. Quinn, do you have any questions for either Wesley or Bertrand about the incident?
[[//Both jurors shake their heads no.//->Nope, We Don't]]
[[Mr. Hugo: Yes, we have a question for Wesley.->Wesley Question]]
[[Ms. Quinn: Yes, we have a question for Bertrand.->Bertrand Question]]
Judge Collyweston: Nobody knows? Well I certainly don’t know. What to do…
//Judge Collyweston shuffles through his papers.//
Judge Collyweston: No, this won’t help…I seem to not have anything to say now. I’ve never had people just refuse to say anything. Wesley, aren’t you angry and wanting to say something?
//Wesley looks at Judge Collyweston with a scowl on his face.//
Judge Collyweston: Have you all been cursed? Why do you all look so angry? This is a court room. There should be lively debate!
//Silence still.//
Judge Collyweston: Bailiff?
Bailiff: Yes, your honor?
Judge Collyweston: Now you speak! Do you have any idea what was going on?
Bailiff: Do you want me to be honest, your honor?
Judge Collyweston: You’re a bailiff! You have to speak with honesty. Isn’t that in the Bailiff codes?
Bailiff: I’m not sure that’s a real thing, your honor. But to be honest, I was spacing out. I’m as lost as you.
Judge Collyweston: Looks like we don’t have any progress to make, especially considering the prosecution isn’t saying a word. Last chances for anyone to bring anything up! It can be anything! We need filler material for this episode at this point.
//Utter silence.//
Judge Collyweston: Ok, I give up! Have it your way. Case closed!
//Judge Collyweston pounds his gavel and walks out of the room, with the Bailiff in tow.//
[[...->Reality 12]]