Secrets Forgiven
By Valerie A. Klaus

Summary: Kirsten has hidden secrets from her past. She’s never dealt with them or shared them with her soon-to-be fiancé. Will she be able to share them? Will he forgive her? Or will their relationship end? Kami has secrets, too. Is it her fault her mom is sick? Who can she tell of her feelings about her dad? These and other questions are answered when both girls find out that God forgives all. Keywords: Family relationships, mental illness, hurt, anger, forgiveness, marriage
Style: Dramatic.  Duration: Approx. 60-75mins 
Scripture reference: Luke 7:47,48 
Actors: 5M, 6F, 3C, 6M/F, 1VO (doubles can be used)

Characters
KIRSTEN. Women in her late 30’s, works with teens in Church/ HS.
KAMI. Young teen, attends church and HS where Kirsten teaches.
SHELLY. Kami’s friend from school.
BOY/GIRL At school.
KYLE.   Boy at school.
JORDAN. Man in his early 30’s, Intern at the church. 
MRS. GREER. Kirsten’s mother. 
MR. BLACK.     Kami’s father, Mitch.
MRS. BLACK. Kami’s mom, Sharon.
CAMERON Shelly’s brother. 7-10 years old.
PASTOR DAN. Pastor and counselor to Kirsten and Jordan.
THERAPIST White Doctor coat, female or male.
KYLES MOM    About 45, casual.
COACH. About 35, casual.
WAITRESS/WAITER 3 Romantic table.
WAITRESS /WAITER 2. 50’s table.
WAITRESS/WAITER 1. Outside café.
OLDER SISTER/BROTHER. Young teenager.
SIBLINGS 1 & 2. 8-10 year old.
SECRETARY. Voice off stage.
 
Script 
ACT ONE
Scene 1. (Lights up, RH) Outside café, one table RH, leafy background. (Scrim, back light pattern) Springy flowers on table, colorful table cloth. Street noises in background. Kirsten and Mrs. Greer enter down aisle to table, talking as they walk and continuing as they sit.
MRS. GREER. How many windows are there?
KIRSTEN. Three walls are nothing but windows. I want privacy, but also want the light to come in, without having to open them each day. What do you think? 
MRS. GREER. You could make the curtains just high enough to cover up what’s important and leave the upper window open. 
KIRSTEN. You mean cover up to here, (She motions to her neck then wave up over her head, she smiles.) then I could see out, but they couldn’t see in. Great idea, mom. 
MRS. GREER. How tall are these windows?
KIRSTEN. Um…I’m not sure, but they’re only about 24 inches from the floor and go almost to the ceiling, are ceilings 8 feet tall? So, that would make them (Slow as if she if calculating.) 6 ft divided by 3, so 2 ft of curtain plus casings and hem. Is that right? How much material would that take?
MRS. GREER. We’d have to wait and see how wide the material is. I’d get a little more just in case. You could always make pillows to match the curtains. 
KIRSTEN. This is fun, it’s been such a long time since I had my own room to decorate.
MRS. GREER. I’m glad you’re out of that other situation.
KIRSTEN. Why? 
MRS. GREER. I just had a bad…
WAITRESS/WAITER. (hands them menus.) Hi ladies, my name is Sammy and I’ll be your Waiter today. What can I get you to drink.
KIRSTEN. I think I’ll take a Dr. Pepper.
WAITRESS/WAITER 1. And you? 
MRS. GREER. I’ll take a water with a slice of lemon.
WAITRESS/WAITER. OK, I’ll be right back with those drinks and take your order. (exits.)
KIRSTEN. (looking at menu.) What looks good?
MRS. GREER. I think I’ll get the oriental salad, with the broiled chicken.
KIRSTEN. You always get that, don’t you want a change?
MRS. GREER. Nope, it’s my favorite.
KIRSTEN. I’m getting the French Dip Sandwich with fries.
MRS. GREER. Sounds good, but I can’t eat like that any more. The pains of getting old. (She laughs.)
KIRSTEN. Oh mom, you’re not old.
(A young teen with her twin siblings walk down aisle and across front. They talk to each other and run.) 
OLDER SISTER. You two don’t get too far ahead of me, mom would be mad if she saw you now.
SIBLINGS. 1 and 2. (together.) We won’t. (They laugh and holding hands run farther ahead.)
OLDER SISTER. You guys are in big trouble. (She races after them.)
KIRSTEN. (she has a sad thoughtful look on her face.) What cute stinkers. They’re about the age Brian was when I left. I can hardly stand to think how young he was. 
MRS. GREER. (pause.) Why do you do this to yourself Kirsten? You can’t go the rest of life blaming yourself for what happened. You did the best you could at that time, that’s all any of us can do. Put it behind you. Your kids are fine now, they’re great adults and love you as well as any kids do. You need to forgive yourself.
KIRSTEN. I know mom, but it’s hard to forget how I hurt them. They went through the last half of their childhood without a mom. Sometimes I can’t get to sleep with the guilt and it’s been 10 years. 
MRS. GREER. Have you told Jordan yet?
KIRSTEN. No. How can I, I can’t even forgive myself, how could he? Besides mom, he’s going to be a pastor. How can I be a pastor’s wife with this history?
MRS. GREER. Kirsten, you’d be a perfect pastor’s wife. You work with the teens, at church and at school, and you care so much about people. You all ready support him in his ministry. (Pause.) He knows you’re divorced, you need to tell him you left the kids. He loves you, he’ll forgive you, but you better do it before he gets any more serious.
KIRSTEN. I know, I will, the longer I wait the worse it’ll be, if he were to ask me to marry him now I couldn’t say yes. I wish the whole mess had never happened. 
MRS. GREER. Well it did and you’re going to have to deal with it. Have you told him about the hospital?
KIRSTEN. No, just that I had to divorce because of mental abuse. I didn’t tell him I was in the hospital.
MRS. GREER. Tell him soon. You don’t want to lose a man like that, he’s a keeper. He’ll deal with it, Kirsten. 
WAITRESS/WAITER 1. Here you are, a Dr. Pepper here and a water here, am I right?
KIRSTEN. Yep, thanks.
WAITRESS/WAITER 1. Are you ready to order?
MRS. GREER. Yes, I’ll have the Oriental Salad, with the dressing on the side, and the chicken broiled.
WAITRESS/WAITER 1. Medium or large?
MRS. GREER. Medium.
WAITRESS/WAITER 1. And what about you? 
KIRSTEN. I’ll have the French Dip Sandwich with fries.
WAITRESS/WAITER 1. OK, great, I’ll be right back with this order.
MRS. GREER. Thank you.
KIRSTEN. (pause.) You know he’s going to seminary soon. I can’t imagine being without him.
MRS. GREER. Do you honestly think he’s going to leave without you. He wants to marry you, Kirsten, you’ve got to tell him soon. 
KIRSTEN. I know mom. I’m just not ready yet.
MRS. GREER. You need to get ready, your secrets aren’t doing anybody any good.
KIRSTEN. Yeah, I know mom. 
MRS. GREER. Now let’s change the subject to something more pleasant. We’ll go get that material when we’re done here. You need something fun to think about. (Lights down RH. Kirsten and Mrs. Greer down aisle.)
Scene 2. 
(Lights up LH) Kami and Mr. Black are standing on stage LH. Kami has a basketball she fools with. Mr. Black is racking leaves. Same leafy background. 
KAMI. I want to go see her, dad.
MR. BLACK. They say it isn’t a good idea right now, maybe in a few days.
KAMI. I need to see her.
MR. BLACK. Kami, not now, she’s OK, you don’t need to see her. 
KAMI. (she is louder.) She’s not OK, she’s in a mental hospital. 
(Pause, Kami twirling ball, Mr. Black raking.)
MR. BLACK. (pause.) This is just a little trouble, she’s always been depressed and too sensitive. 
KAMI. (loud.)Too sensitive, for who.
MR. BLACK. (louder.) Just too sensitive to everything and she gets worse each year.
KAMI. Every year you’ve known her, that should tell you something. 
MR. BLACK. Kami, my marriage is none of your business, and I’m not the one sick here. Your mom has her own problems and they don’t involve me.
KAMI. I thought a marriage took two (She throws the ball at him, he drops the rake to catch it.) people, it does involves you. Don’t you even love her anymore?
MR. BLACK. I won’t stand here and discuss my marriage with you. You’re obnoxious, rude and ...
KAMI. Mom says I’m just like you. We’ve both… hurt her, every time we argue it makes her worse.(She kicks at the rake then picks it up.) I want to see mom, when can I go.
MR. BLACK. When I say, that’s when. (Trades the ball for the rake.) This conversation is done, I won’t tolerate this kind of attitude from you.
KAMI. That’s just it Dad. That’s what you do, you tolerate us. You don’t love us?. (She runs off RH.)
MR. BLACK. Kami, you get back here.(Pause.) Get back here. (He exits LH shaking his head.)
Scene 3. 
Kami and Shelly walk on stage RH. Between classes. Same leafy background.
KAMI. (She is walking across stage.)
SHELLY. (yelling from off stage.) Kami, wait. (She catched up about mid stage.)
KAMI. Hey Shell.
SHELLY. Hey, do we have Math homework?
KAMI. Yes, of course, old man Smith doesn’t miss a day.
SHELLY. Yeah, can’t wait to get out of his class.
KAMI. Yeah.
SHELLY. You OK?
KAMI. Alright, another explosion last night.
SHELLY. What did he do?
KAMI. The usual, yell and tell me what a jerk I am.
SHELLY. Too bad. 
KAMI. Yeah, too bad.
SHELLY. Did Jerry talk to you, he was looking for you. 
KAMI. He wants me to go skating with him on Saturday night. I don’t want to go alone, (Pause.) will you go.
SHELLY. Well I’m not gonna go on a date with you, that would be stupid. 
KAMI. No, I mean, just go to the rink with me, we can all skate. Besides it won’t be a date. I told him it was just friends.
BOY/GIRL. (runs on calling.) Kami.
KAMI. Hey, what’s up.
BOY/GIRL. Kyle Cramer wants to go out with you and asked me to find out what you’d say.
SHELLY. Is this a joke?
BOY/GIRL. No, he’s serious.
KAMI. Why would he want to go out with me, he’s got girls begging him to go out.
SHELLY. Maybe he just likes the way you look.
KAMI. No, I know what he likes and it’s not for sale.
SHELLY. Oh gross Kami, you always come up with the worst possible ideas.
KAMI. I bet you I’m right. Hey, I know. Tell him I’d love to go out. But that I don’t give out what he’s looking for. 
BOY/GIRL. Sure. Be back in a minute.
KAMI. That’ll fix him.
SHELLY. This is weird. 
KAMI. Yeah, but that’s how it is with boys. I wonder what made him think I would? Everyone knows I’m not like that. How do rumors get started?
SHELLY. I don’t know, but it’s not good. Here he/she comes.
KAMI. Well what did he say?
 BOY/GIRL. Nothing, he just walked away. (Pause.) Sorry. (He starts to exit RH.)
KAMI. Sorry? (Fake.) It’s a relief! (Lights down RH, all exit RH.)
Scene 4. 
Kirsten walks on from aisle to LH. Kami runs on from RH calling to Kirsten and they meet LH to talk. Kirsten is carrying books with purse, Kami has a back pack on, pencil in hand. Same leafy background.
KAMI. Kirsten, Kirsten (As she runs up aisle.) Wait I need to talk to you.
KIRSTEN. What Kami, slow down I’m not… (She takes her by the arm, gently.)
KAMI. I need to talk to someone. There’s a boy after me, mom’s in the hospital and my dad’s a jerk, Cameron doesn’t give a rip, and I know it’s all my fault. (She grabs her head.) I’m a mess.
KIRSTEN. Slow down Kami, one thing at at time, and you’re not a mess. Your mom is in the hospital, she’s sick, having a little trouble with her thoughts and emotions, and it isn’t completely your fault. She’s going to get well and come home. 
KAMI. It is my fault and what if she doesn’t, what if she decides to go away, I wouldn’t blame her. 
KIRSTEN. We’ll deal with that if it happens, don’t borrow trouble. What makes you think it’s your fault. 
KAMI. Can’t you tell I hate my dad. Mom knows and it makes her upset when we fight. Now he won’t even let me see mom, he hates my guts. 
KIRSTEN. Now Kami, you really don’t hate your dad, and that’s no way to talk about him. 
KAMI. Get real Kirsten. You don’t like him, nobody at church likes him. He’s a selfish, macho pig. If everyone doesn’t do it his way they get punished, including my mom. I try to stand up to him, but all it does is make mom sick.
KIRSTEN. Kami, this situation probably didn’t help your mom, but you are not totally responsible for her sickness. OK, if you want to be real honest I do see some problems with your dad, but this isn’t the right place to discuss it. 
KAMI. Can we talk somewhere. I can meet you somewhere?
KIRSTEN. Yeah, I’d like that. You’re done with school now, right, how about today?
KAMI. I can’t, I have to get home for Cameron.
KIRSTEN. Well you’ve got my phone number, call me. Make sure it’s alright with your dad, though. (Confused look.)Who’s the boy?
KAMI. Oh never mind, I’ll call you tonight. 
KIRSTEN. Call me after you ask your dad if you can go, then we’ll go to lunch on Saturday. Would that work?
KAMI. Yeah, thanks Kirsten, I really don’t know what to do about this. What a mess.
KIRSTEN. We’ll talk. Then we’ll see what happens.
SHELLY. (she walks from RH.) Hi Ms. Greer, nice skirt. (Kirsten looks down at her skirt questioning.) Kami, are you going home, I couldn’t find you.
KAMI. Yeah, I needed to talk to Kirsten, first. Sorry! Kirsten, this is Shelly my best friend. We do everything together. 
KIRSTEN. Ah, my daughter’s names Shelly, you feel like family.
SHELLY. You have kids?
KIRSTEN. Yep, two, but they’re grown now.
KAMI. Her kids live in Arizona.
SHELLY. Wow, that’s a long ways away.
KIRSTEN. Yeah, too far, but they grew up there and there’s friends and family there.
SHELLY. I bet you miss them.
KIRSTEN. Yep, I do, but they come around and I fly out there. It works OK. (She turns to Kami.) Are you walking home? Walk with me.
KAMI. OK, come on Shelly walk with us. 
Scene 5. 
(house lights up as they exit stage, stage lights down) Kirsten and girls leave the stage and begin walking around outside of room. Voice from sound system talks to Kirsten as they walk. Same leafy background.
(Car horn blasts. It makes them all jump and turn their head to the wall of the room.)
JORDAN. (from off stage.) Hey Babe, want a lift.
KIRSTEN. Oh Jordan, you scared me to death. (emphatically) No, I don’t want a ride, I need to walk. 
JORDAN. (from off stage.) That must be why you look so good.
KIRSTEN. Is that a compliment?
JORDAN. (from off stage.) Yep, I’m sweetening you up so you’ll say yes.
KIRSTEN.(she starts at the word yes, and speaks nervously.) Yes to what?
JORDAN. (from off stage.) Yes to a night on the town. Are you busy Sunday night? I want to take you to dinner.
KIRSTEN. (nervous) Wow, a real date, what’s up?.
JORDAN. (from off stage.) I figured it was about time we had a romantic evening together.
KAMI. Oh, romantic, (Being smarty.) how sweet, (takes a princess pose.) Someday I’ll find a man just like you, Jordan. 
KIRSTEN. Don’t rush the boy thing, Kami. It isn’t all romance. 
JORDAN. (from off stage.) Oh, come on now, you know I’m romantic.
SHELLY. Even once in awhile, is more than we get, huh, Kami?
KAMI. That’s for sure.
KIRSTEN. Well I guess since these girls think it’s so romantic, I better say yes. What time?
JORDAN. (from off stage.) I’ll pick you up about 6:45.
KIRSTEN. OK, I’ll be ready. Hey will you be at the church early tonight? 
JORDAN. Yeah, what’s up.
KIRSTEN. I’ve got some things to check on. See you there. 
All. Bye! (They all wave.)
(They exit back door, house lights down.)
Scene 6. 
Lights up on stage RH. Kirsten and Kami are seated at a table. Table is set as a 50’s restaurant. Scrim backdrop same leafy background. Outside noises and 50’s music.
KIRSTEN. Your mom’s gonna be fine, Kami, just wait and see. She’s a good woman and I know she’ll be able to work through this, she wouldn’t want you to blame yourself.. Tell me what’s going on with your dad.
KAMI. He hates me, and I hate him. We can’t even talk, it turns into fights.
KIRSTEN. Kami, what have we learned just lately on Wednesday night.
KAMI. Yeah, I know, obey your parents, but this is different.
KIRSTEN. No, I don’t think God would agree. It’s a tough situation, Kam, but you do still have to do what he says. You need to talk it out with him. But fighting doesn’t work for anyone. It just gets you in more trouble. 
KAMI. I hate him, Kirsten. What does the Bible say about that?
KIRSTEN. I don’t know what it says about hating your parents, but I do know it tells us to respect and honor them. Not because they do everything right, but because they are the parents. Have you prayed about this? 
KAMI. I’ve tried, but it doesn’t work.
KIRSTEN. Keep trying, it will. Have you told your mom?
KAMI. Yeah, and that’s why she’s sick. She knows I hate him. But she doesn’t know what to do about it.
KIRSTEN. Maybe she’ll get some help.
KAMI. What about me, are they gonna’ help me?
KIRSTEN. Not unless you let them. You have got to want to be helped Kami, and right now, you’re anything but teachable.
KAMI. (pause, hangs her head.) I know, I just get... 
WAITRESS /WAITER 2. Good afternoon ladies. Can I get you something? A float, a malt, a milk shake, or are you eating today?
KIRSTEN. I want a strawberry milkshake is all. What do you want Kami?
KAMI. (looks up but is saddened.) Same thing.
KIRSTEN. Are you sure; you could have something to eat if you want to.
KAMI. No, a shake’s fine.
WAITRESS/WAITER 2. Ok, great, coming right up.
KIRSTEN. Kami, would you like me to talk to your mom with you?
KAMI. Would you do that?
KIRSTEN. If her Doctor says it’s alright.
KAMI. I would rather have you there. (Pause.) Kirsten, do you think I’m horrible because I hate my dad?
KIRSTEN. Oh Kami, I don’t think you’re horrible. All of us have our little secrets. It’s not for me to judge. But you do need to start praying about it.
KAMI. I know.
KIRSTEN. Listen to Him, He’ll help you know what to do. 
KAMI. I’m not very good at…
KIRSTEN. WAITRESS /WAITER 2. Here you go ladies, enjoy!
KIRSTEN. Thank you. (Waitress/Waiter exits RH.)
KAMI. How do I know when He’s talking to me?
KIRSTEN. I’ve always been told that God’s help leads you to do good. If you’re hearing bad ideas, it might be your own desire creeping in. You’ll know.
KAMI. I’ll try.
KIRSTEN. And go see your mom. You need to tell her these things. I’ll go with you as soon as I clear it, but you need to see her, OK.
KAMI. OK. Oh, oh, Kristen, hide me, hurry! (She picks up her purse and covers her face.)
KIRSTEN. What’s going on? 
KAMI. That guy’s headed here, I don’t want to talk to him.
KIRSTEN. You mean Kyle?
KAMI. Yeah. (Kyle enters LH, sheepishly.) Hi, Kyle.
KYLE. Hi Kami, Ms. Greer. You guys just hanging out. 
KIRSTEN. We were talking about very important things. (She smiles knowing she is exaggerating.)
KYLE. Well, I don’t want to interrupt.
KIRSTEN. No, have a seat, I’m kidding. (Kami shakes her head behind Kyle’s back.) (She smiles at Kami who rolls her eyes, behind Kyle’s back.) What cha’ been up to?
KYLE. The team meets here on Saturdays once in a while. We just finished. I was heading home when I saw you.
KIRSTEN. That would be the basketball team?
KAMI. Who knows? Kyle’s on every team.
KIRSTEN. Are you, Kyle. I knew you were on the basketball and football teams. How about the Quiz Team, or the Chess Team?
KYLE. (smiles.) No, I am not on the Quiz Team or the Chess Team, sorry to disappoint you, Kami. I don’t have the brains for those two.
KIRSTEN. You do pretty good in my classes.
KYLE. I love you’re classes. They’re more fun than work.
KIRSTEN. Thanks Kyle, I do put a lot of effort into it.
KAMI. (Sarcastically.) Aren’t we both so nice. I think it’s time for me to head home. You ready, Kirsten?
KIRSTEN. I am ready, I guess we’ll see you later Kyle. 
KYLE. Kami, could you stay for a bit, I need to talk to you. I’ll take you home.
KAMI. I don’t think so, Kyle. I came with Ms. Greer.
KYLE. Would it be OK, Ms. Greer.
KIRSTEN. It’s up to Kami, not me.
KYLE. Please stay, Kami.
KAMI. (deep breath.) OK, I guess I could, If you take me straight home. 
KYLE. Sure. See you Monday, Ms. Greer. (She exits LH.)
KAMI. (they sit silent for awhile, messing with things on the table.) Well, what’s so important.
KYLE. It’s about Friday, I think you have the wrong idea about me. When I asked if you’d be interested in going out, I was serious. I wasn’t after what you accused me of. I just have a reputation.
KAMI. I wonder how you got that reputation, Kyle? Are you out late with girls? Sitting in cars mugging each other? (Kyle looks down at the table.) What kind of girls do you date? Do you date around a lot? I know you do and you’re sending the wrong message. A message that I got loud and clear.
KYLE. Yeah, I guess I am sending the wrong message. 
KAMI. It is, and if you want me to go out with you, you’ll have to prove your reputation isn’t what everyone thinks it is. 
KYLE. OK, so what do I do.
KAMI. Well, tonight Shelly and I are going to the skating rink with some friends. You could meet us there. That could be a start. I also do things with my church. You could come there if you’re serious.
KYLE. (cringes.) We’ll start with the rink and see what happens. Is that good enough for now?
KAMI. I think it’ll be fun. Shelly won’t believe it after that mess on Friday, by the way. Why did you walk away when you got my message?
KYLE. I knew what you thought of me from your message. I didn’t think I had a chance with you.
KAMI. (Tips her head questioningly.) We’ll see.(Lights down, RH.)
Scene 7. 
Lights up on LH. Chair and footstool is set. Kami and mom come on, RH, arm in arm and sit. Mom on the chair, Kami on the footstool. Same leafy background. Outside garden noises.
MRS. BLACK. I’m so glad you came, Kami, I’ve missed you so much.
KAMI. I came as soon as dad would let me, mom. (Pause.) This is nice, someone sure takes care of this garden.
MRS. BLACK. (looks at her lap and the hanky she holds.) It is nice, isn’t it. (Pause.) Kami, I know you have trouble with your dad, but we’re going to work it out.
KAMI. It won’t work, mom, he doesn’t think he has any problems.
MRS. BLACK. Now Kami, don’t talk that way.
KAMI. Mom, it’s true. We walk on eggshells making sure we don’t do the wrong things so he won’t get upset, but he… has no problems.
MRS. BLACK. Your dad does have some issues, but we all do. I have my own and one is that I’ve ignored the problems in my marriage. I’ve let them go too long. But I’m getting help and your dad is, too. He’s agreed to see a counselor. It’s going to be OK. He’s a good man under all of that bluster.
KAMI. I’m glad you’re so positive about it mom. (She messes with her purse.) When are you coming home? 
MRS. BLACK. I’m not sure yet. Your Aunt May has asked me to come stay with her for awhile, doctor’s orders. Can you handle being alone for a while?
KAMI. I have to stay with dad? Don’t go mom, come home. I can’t stay with dad.
MRS. BLACK. I wish I could Kami, but if you want me to get well I need a break. I’ll promise you one thing though. As soon as I can, I’ll come home, I would never leave you forever Kami.
KAMI. But I need you now. You know dad and I can’t get along. I won’t stay with him without you.
NURSES AIDE. Mrs. Black it’s almost time for supper. 
MRS. BLACK. All right, she’s about to head home. Thank you.
NURSES AIDE. I hope you had a good visit.
MRS. BLACK. We did, thanks. Kami, you and your dad will be fine. Are you ready to go?
KAMI. Not really.
MRS. BLACK. You can come back. (She pulls Kami into her arms and kisses the top of her head.)
KAMI. I love you mom.
MRS. BLACK. I love you too, Kami. (Light down LH.)
ACT TWO
Scene 1 
Kami, Cameron, and Mr. Black are at a table playing a game. Window background.
KAMI. (loud and frustrated.) Cameron, you can’t make that move.
MR. BLACK. Kami, you don’t need to be so mean.
KAMI. Well, he’s doing dumb stuff.
CAMERON. I’m not either.
KAMI. You are too, you know the rules but you keep messing around.
CAMERON. Dad, I’m only trying to have fun.
KAMI. Don’t hide behind him, you know what you’re doing.
MR. BLACK. Kami, you’re being too hard on him.
KAMI. Oh, I’m always wrong in your view. (She stands up, Cameron is watching with wide eyes following the conversation back and forth.) I can never do anything right.
MR. BLACK. (louder.) That isn’t true, you are just being too forceful, calm down.
KAMI. (louder.) Calm down, you want me to calm down when you’re yelling.
CAMERON. (runs off, holding his hands over his ears.) Ahhhhhhhhhhh!
MR. BLACK. Just go to your room, you’re completely unreasonable.
KAMI. (loud.) That is always your solution, get me out of your sight.
MR. BLACK. (loud.) Well what else is there, you get so out of control.
KAMI. Me out of control. (She throws the die.) Fine, I’ll get out of your sight, I’m leaving. (She runs off.)
MR. BLACK. (he yells after her.) Good, that’s all I wanted and stay there. (Black out.)
Scene 2. 
Mr. Black is on the phone to several different people. Both sides of stage have light. As he talks to the different people they come into the light with their phones and then leave. Then Kirsten takes Mr. Black’s place and the same thing happens with her and others on the phone. 
(Mr. Black on phone #1 , Pastor on phone #2 from desk.)
MR. BLACK. Pastor? 
PASTOR. Yes, Mitch?
MR. BLACK. Yeah, I need help, pastor.
PASTOR. What’s going on?
MR. BLACK. Kami is gone, we had it out and she left. 
PASTOR. Oh Mitch. Should I come?
MR. BLACK. If you could, I have made a mess of things.
PASTOR. Give me about 10 minutes.
(Pastor exits, Shelly comes on with phone #3.)
MR. BLACK. Shelly, this is Kami’s dad.
SHELLY. Oh. 
MR. BLACK. Have you seen her, she’s run off.
SHELLY. No, Mr. Black, I haven’t seen her since school on Friday.
MR. BlACK. OK, well, if she shows up will you tell her to call me?
SHELLY. Sure.
MR.BLACK. Thank you Shelly.
(Shelly exits, Kirsten comes on with phone #4.)
KIRSTEN. No, is there a problem?
MR. BLACK. Yes, we had words and she ran out.
KIRSTEN. Oh man, have you called around.
MR. BLACK. Yes, I’ve called Shelly. 
KIRSTEN. Have you called Sharon.
MR.BLACK. Didn’t want to worry her.
KIRSTEN. Good idea, I’ll call like I’m just calling to say hi and find out.
MR. BLACK. Thank you, Kirsten.
KIRSTEN. Mitch? 
MR. BLACK. Yeah?
KIRSTEN. If I find her I’d like to keep her tonight and take her to church tomorrow.
MR. BLACK. That would probably be a good idea. Tell her I’m sorry.
KIRSTEN. I’ll have her call you and you can tell her. OK.
MR. BLACK. Thank you, Kirsten.
(Mr. Black exits and Mrs. Black comes on with phone #5.)
MRS. BLACK. Oh I’m doing better. How’s life on the outside. (She laughs like it is a joke.)
KIRSTEN. You are feeling better. Life out here is hectic. 
MRS. BLACK. How’s Kami doing?
KIRSTEN. She has her ups and downs, she misses you, has she been to see you?
MRS. BLACK. She came yesterday. She was pretty upset when I told her about going to my sister May’s. 
KIRSTEN. I imagine she was. I’ll try to get a chance to talk to her. (Pause.) Well I just wanted to see how you were doing and need to get going.
MRS. BLACK. Thanks for calling, come visit, I feel like we have so much in common, especially my daughter. Thanks for loving her.
KIRSTEN. You know I do, she is special.
(Mrs. Black exits, Jordan comes on with phone #6.)
JORDAN. Hi hon.
KIRSTEN. Jordan, I have to make this quick, but wanted to let you know. 
JORDAN. What’s up?
KIRSTEN. Kami’s run away, you haven’t seen her have you?
JORDAN. Nope, sorry.
KIRSTEN. Didn’t think so, just checking.
JORDAN. Have you called her friend, what’s her name.
KIRSTEN. Shelly, yep, Mitch called her. 
JORDAN. What about her mom, did you call her.
KIRSTEN. Yep, I did that, Mitch didn’t want to upset her.
JORDAN. How about the pastor?
KIRSTEN. Yes, Mitch called him too.
JORDAN. (pause thinking.) What about that boy she’s getting friendly with? You know the basketball player you told me about.
KIRSTEN. You mean Kyle? She wouldn’t go there, she could barely stand him the other day.
JORDAN. It would be worth a try.
KIRSTEN. Ok, I guess it is, I have to find his number.
JORDAN. Call the coach.
KIRSTEN. Good idea. Got to go, love you.
JORDAN. Love you, too, hope you find her.
(Jordan exits, Coach comes on with phone #7.)
COACH. Oh hi Kirsten, what can I do for you?
KIRSTEN. I know this is unusual, but I need one of your player’s phone numbers.
COACH. Is he in trouble?
KIRSTEN. No, but I think one of my kids may be hiding out at his house and I need to find her.
COACH. Trouble?
KISTEN. Yes, it’s a long story.
COACH. Let me get it for you, hold on.
(Coach goes off and Kyle’s mom comes on with phone #8 .)
KIRSTEN. Hi, Mrs. Cramer, this is Kirsten Greer from the High School. I wonder is Kyle there and can I speak to him.
KYLE’S MOM. Yes, he’s here, is he in some kind of trouble?
KIRSTEN. No, it’s about a friend of his.
KYLES’S MOM. Ok, I’ll get him for you. Kyle!
(Kyle enters, Mom hands phone to Kyle and exits.
KYLE. Hello!
KIRSTEN. Kyle, this is Ms. Greer. 
KYLE. Oh, hi, Ms. Greer. You’re calling about Kami aren’t you?
KIRSTEN. Yes, she’s there isn’t she?
KYLE. Yes, she was flipped out when she got here, so she stayed.
KIRSTEN. Thanks for helping her Kyle, can I speak to her.
(Kyle leaves with phone and Kami comes on with it.)
KAMI. Hi, Kirsten. 
KIRSTEN. Hey Kam. You are hard to find, little girl. Do you know how worried everyone is. Your dad is calling all over town.
KAMI. He is, I thought he’d be glad to get rid of me.
KIRSTEN. You know better, Kami. He’s frantic.
KAMI. Oh, (Pause.) we had a big fight.
KIRSTEN. I know, he told me. Can I come pick you up? Your dad said you can stay with me tonight.
KAMI. OK.
KIRSTEN. Tell me how to get there.(lights out)
Scene 3 
Kirsten and Kami are setting on a park bench, no background low lights. Street light if possible.
KIRSTEN. Why’d you go to Kyle’s? 
KAMI. He’s been really nice to me, and I knew Dad wouldn’t find me there.
KIRSTEN. Well, I’m glad you had somewhere safe to go.
KAMI. I couldn’t stay at home.
KIRSTEN. Yeah, it sounds like you had a big fight over nothing.
KAMI. It’s not just the fight. It’s the way he treats me.
KIRSTEN. I’d say you did a bit of treating yourself.
KAMI. I just can’t be around him, I turn into this witch.
KIRSTEN. I see that, and you two really need to work this out.
KAMI. It will never work out until he admits he’s to blame, too. 
KIRSTEN. But Kami, you can’t wait for that. You can’t control what others do, all you can do is control your own actions.
KAMI. Why doesn’t he, he’s the adult.
KIRSTEN. That’s true but it doesn’t really matter. He’ll have to deal with his own problems someday.
KAMI. When?
KIRSTEN. Like I said, that isn’t your concern. You take care of yourself. 
KAMI. It isn’t fair.
KIRSTEN. No, it isn’t, but if you want your mom to come home and stay well you’re going to have to be the one to take the first step. I know you want your mom home.
KAMI. (looking down.) I do, you’re right. (Pause.) Why’s it so hard for me to be good, Kirsten. I try.
KIRSTEN. Kami, we can’t keep our problems secret, have you prayed like I asked you to?
KAMI. Oh, (Big breath.) This is all too hard.
KIRSTEN. I know it is, but it’ll be worth it. You know, Kami, I have a secret I’ve only shared with a few people. 
KAMI. (unbelieving.) What secrets do you have?
KIRSTEN. You know I was married before, right?
KAMI. Yeah.
KIRSTEN. My marriage failed because I couldn’t control myself. We fought all the time, just like you and your dad.
KAMI. I can’t believe that.
KIRSTEN. It happened, and then I ended up in a hospital, just like your mom. 
KAMI. Wow, you?
KIRSTEN. Yep, so you see it does happen to others. I wasn’t able to repair that relationship, but I did get help and changed. 
KAMI. Can you help me?
KIRSTEN. I can.
KAMI. What can I do?
KIRSTEN. Well, there’s some basic steps to controlling your temper, let me get something to write with. (Black out.)
ACT THREE
Scene 1. 
Lights up on RH. Table is set with roses and candle light. White cloth and crystal glasses. Kirsten and Jordan come on LH, Jordan pulls out the chair for Kirsten. Scrim background shadow, two window patterns. Romantic music.
KIRSTEN. Thank you, sir, you’re as romantic as the girls say. 
JORDAN. That was fun, you jumped out of your skin, when I honked. (Kirsten hits him lightly.) Kami’s such a feisty little thing, she just wants to be loved like every one else.
KIRSTEN. Yep, she does and she doesn’t get it much at home, especially with her mother in the hospital.
JORDAN. Yeah, have you heard how Sharon’s doing? 
KIRSTEN. I think she’s improving. I’m not so sure the situation at home is good for her right now, though, she may have to take a break for awhile.
JORDAN. What do you mean, from Mitch? 
KIRSTEN. Just the whole situation. Sharon has no life of her own, it’s all about Mitch or even the kids. Even Kami sees this. That poor kid is so confused. She blames herself, she thinks it’s because she hates her dad and argues with him that her mom is sick.
JORDAN. That’s tough for her, I’m glad she can talk to you, though. 
KIRSTEN. It does feel good to be needed and able to help. I have…
WAITRESS/WAITER 3. Good evening. My name is Billy and I’ll be serving you this evening. Our special entrees this evening are the Broiled Salmon in lemon butter sauce or our Louisiana Shrimp in tomato brodetta, which comes in a small, medium or large tureen. Both of these come with your choice of salad. Our specialty salads are a Caesar with whole uncut baby Romaine or a Mixed Baby Green salad with ginger oil dressing. While you’re deciding, can I get you a drink? We have a wonderful selection of house wines. 
JORDAN. No wine this evening, thanks. (He smiles at Kirsten.) What would you like to drink Kirsten?
KIRSTEN. I’ll take a Diet Coke with a slice of lime.
JORAN. And I’ll have water with a slice of lemon.
WAITRESS/WAITER 3. Great! I’ll return with these to take your order if you’re ready. 
JORDAN. Thank you. (The waitress/waiter exits.) Did you catch half of what he said?
KIRSTEN. No, but it’s nice to be treated special and not have to wait in line or get my own at a salad bar. (She laughs as she picks up the wine list.) This is really nice Jordan, what a special treat. 
JORDAN. You deserve it, Kirsten, you work hard. Have I told you how beautiful you look tonight? 
KIRSTEN. Not yet, but I was waiting. (She smiles a smarty smile.)
JORDAN. (he laughs.) You do look wonderful. That dress is new, isn’t it? I’ve never seen it before.
KIRSTEN. Nope it’s an old one I just don’t wear it very often.
JORDEN. Well, it’s beautiful. 
KIRSTEN. Thank you, (Exaggerating.) I dressed for you this evening.
JORDEN. You look very nice. (Pause, he looks down at the menu.) Before they bring our food I wanted to talk seriously about something.
KIRSTEN. Ok, what?
JORDEN. I got a letter this week from the Theological Seminary. I’ve been accepted and need to start this fall.
KIRSTEN. (false joy.) That’s wonderful Jordan. I know you’ve been waiting for this along time. I’m happy for you.
JORDEN. There is something I need to do before I leave, though.
KIRSTEN. (a little fearful.) What’s that?
JORDEN. Make sure you can come with me.
KIRSTEN. What do you mean? 
JORDAN. Kirsten, I love you more than I ever thought I could love anyone and know I am supposed to marry you. Will you marry me, Kirsten?
KIRSTEN. Oh Jordan, (She tucks her head and stares at her hands.) I knew this might happen, I’m just not ready to give you an answer right now.
JORDAN. Why? We’ve been together for a year and friends longer than that. (Pause.) You love me, don’t you?
KIRSTEN. Of course, I love you more than anyone on earth, but I’m just not ready.
JORDAN. I don’t want to go without you, when can you tell me?
KIRSTEN. I don’t know. I just can’t right now.
JORDAN. Well, what’s the problem then, can you at least tell me that?
KIRSTEN. (she begins to cry.) No, I can’t even tell you that right now. 
JORDAN. Kirsten I don’t understand this, what are you talking about?
KIRSTEN. (she stands.) I just can’t talk about it. I’m sorry Jordan, if I’d known what tonight was all about I wouldn’t have come. (She gathers her purse and wrap.) I have to go, I can’t stay here. (She starts to exit, LH.)
JORDAN. Wait at the car for me. I’ll take you home.
KIRSTEN. (she nods as she exits.) OK.
JORDAN. (the drinks have arrived.) I guess we’re not staying. Can you get my check?
WAITRESS/WAITER 3. Was there a problem? 
JORDAN. Oh, no, she’s upset is all.
WAITRESS/WAITER 3. I’ll be right back with your check.
JORDAN. She’s waiting outside, if you could hurry a bit. (The Waitress/Waiter begins to exits.) Thanks. (Lights down on RH.)
Scene 2 
Kitchen table with Mr. Black and Kami. Window background. Cartoons going in the background.
KAMI. Want some toast, dad?
MR. BLACK. (he puts down the newspaper and studies her for awhile.) Thanks Kami, but no I’ll just have my coffee. 
KAMI. I can make it quick for you.
MR. BLACK. (stares at her.) You’re being awfully nice, maybe I will have just one piece. 
KAMI. You know breakfast is the most important meal of the day.
MR. BLACK. Oh yeah? I think I’ve heard that some place. (Newspaper up.)
KAMI.(she puts the toast in.) Dad, have you been to see mom lately.
MR. BLACK. (newspaper down, frustrated.) Yes, I went two times this week already, and I went some last week, too.
KAMI. How’d it go? 
MR. BLACK. She’s doing better, (Pause.) And… so am I.
KAMI. (she has been picking at her toast looking down at it, she looks up in surprise.) You?
MR. BLACK. (deep breath.) Yes, Kami. You know I forgot to apologize for the other day. I was wrong and it’s my fault, this situation with you and your mom. I didn’t want to take any of the blame, but it is a lot my fault.
KAMI. Wow, Dad…, (Shocked.) that’s great, (She back up in her hand motions.) I mean not that it is your fault but that things are working out.
MR. BLACK. I’ve been too hard on your mom… and you. I work all day to be kind and considerate of those I work with and then come home and make demands. It’s completely backward, I need to be kind to you guys. 
KAMI. Well… I haven’t been so good either, I haven’t felt much like being nice to you lately.
MR. BLACK. I know, Kami, and I don’t hold it against you, you were reacting to my problems. Can we fix things?
CAMERON. (from off stage.) Kami, the bus is gonna’ be here soon. (TV goes off.)
KAMI. OK Cameron. (Pause.) I’ll try. (Pause.) How about mom, are you going to patch things up with her?
MR. BLACK. I love your mom, Kami, and I know she loves me, but I just forgot how to show her. We’ll be fine, it just takes time.
KAMI. Is she going to come home?
MR. BLACK. Yes, definitely, but not right away. The doctor says she needs a break, she’s worn out. She needs time to heal, and in the meantime, we’re going to be working on ourselves, too.
KAMI. How?
MR. BLACK. The Pastor came over the night you…were at Kirsten’s. We talked and he helped me see some things. I’ve set up times for us all to meet with him while your mom’s at Aunt May’s.
KAMI. What about Cameron?
MR. BLACK. Him too, he’s in this family. He may not voice his frustrations as clearly as you do (He smiles.) but he does have some issues to deal with.
KAMI. Good, I’m glad, and I’ll try not to…
CAMERON. (he comes running through.) Bye dad, come on Kami.
KAMI. (rolls her eyes.) …not to yell so much. 
MR. BLACK. Me too, Kami. I am the adult and should have put a stop to our arguments along time ago.
KAMI. Well, I gotta go, the bus is coming.
MR. BLACK. Kami, you know I love you?
KAMI. Thanks, Dad.
Scene 3. 
Lights down on RH, up on LH. One chair and a small table added to the previous set. Pastor Dan stands in front of one. Window background. Elevator church music.
PASTOR DAN. Hi Kirsten, come on in.
KIRSTEN. You want the door closed?
PASTOR DAN. No, let’s leave it open if you don’t mind. 
KIRSTEN. Sure, no problem.
PASTOR DAN. Sit. (He motions to a chair.) What can I do for you. You seemed upset on the phone. 
KIRSTEN. Actually this is about a problem that’s been in my life for some time now. But it’s just lately become a big issue. 
PASTOR DAN. Go ahead, Kirsten, take your time. 
KIRSTEN. (pause.) You know I’m divorced, right?
PASTOR DAN. Yes, you shared that with me. Is that what this is about?
KIRSTEN. Not really, I hate my history, but I’ve dealt with it. I did what I had to at the time. (Deep breath.) I’ve never told you the whole story. It’s hard to…
SECRETARY. (off stage.) Pastor, there a call for you.
PASTOR DAN. (he pushes a button.) Can you hold all my calls, Sue?
SECRETARY. Sure, no problem.
PASTOR DAN. Sorry about that, go ahead.
KIRSTEN. (She looks down at her hands.) It’s hard to talk about. 
PASTOR DAN. Take your time.
KIRSTEN. When I divorced, it wasn’t an easy thing. It was a big mess.
PASTOR DAN. They usually are.
KIRSTEN. His one was on the higher end of messy. I was sick, pastor, he thought my mental problems were the cause of our marriage problems. So…(She cringes.) I spent a week in a mental hospital.
PASTOR DAN. Kirsten, You don’t need to be embarrassed by this. Things have changed. People don’t look on mental illness like they used to. We know now that most of the time it’s either a chemical problem, that can usually be handled with medicines, or it’s situations in our lives that we need help with. There’s no need for you to feel bad about it.
KIRSTEN. I know all of this and I’ve tried to deal with it, but…(Deep breath.) in the process of me being in the hospital, I (Pause, she looks down.) lost my children. I’m sure it had something to do with my behavior before I went in, (Looks down.) I wasn’t much of a mother when I was sick, but their father made me sound like a raving maniac to them. They were afraid of me.
PASTOR DAN. But they aren’t now, I’ve seen you with them, and you’re a wonderful mother and they’re wonderful adults. 
KIRSTEN. Yep, (She smiles like she is having wonderful memories.) they have grown into wonderful adults. They care so much about people and things in our world. My sister says God’s truly protected us, they could have been really messed up.
PASTOR DAN. I think that’s the case for all of us and our children.
KIRSTEN. It’s a little more likely in the case with me, pastor. I left my children without a mom. I tried to get custody, but he would’ve had me declared an unfit mother, it would’ve been a mess. I didn’t want to put my kids through that. Plus, I was too sick to deal with anything. I barely got through the divorce with my head on.
PASTOR DAN. Oh, Kirsten, I’m so sorry. I never would have guessed it happened this way, your kids love you so much.
KIRSTEN. (she smiles.) Yes, it’s come around for me. I feel like I’ve got my kids back, my faith is deeper than ever, and… now I have Jordan to love me. He’s wonderful. (Pause.) He asked me to marry him, I told him I couldn’t answer him.
PASTOR DAN. (pause.) Ah! You haven’t told him about your kids? That’ll be a hard one, but you know Kirsten, Jordan’s a pretty rational guy, and he does love you, (He laughs.) completely. I really don’t think there’s going to be a problem. More than likely he’ll feel you were cheated out of some wonderful years with your kids. Have you talked to God about this? 
KIRSTEN. Yes, (Frustrated.) God and I go round and round about this. I know he’s forgiven me, but every time I see a child the age mine were when I left, the guilt and sorrow is almost overwhelming. Then I beg him to forgive me all over again. I’ve even asked my kids to forgive me, but I can’t seem to forgive myself. 
PASTOR DAN. I think that’s normal in situations like this, Kirsten. Forgiving ourselves is difficult. Can I read some scripture. I love this story. You remember the woman that poured the perfume on Jesus feet. 
KIRSTEN. Yes.
PASTOR DAN. Well, the people in that room didn’t like it much. That perfume was expensive, and they thought it should go to other things, maybe the needy. But Jesus didn’t feel that way, her actions were like words of love to him. While he talked she washed his feet with that perfume, and wiped it off with her hair. This is what he said about it.. It’s in Luke 7:47,48 “Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—for she loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little." Then Jesus said to her, "Your sins are forgiven." Do you understand what that means, Kirsten? 
KIRSTEN. I haven’t really thought about it. 
PASTOR DAN. She loved Jesus so much that she was willing to give this expensive perfume, that was the greatest sacrifice she could think of. She knew her sins were great. But Jesus forgave her sins (Pause.) and said that since she had been forgiven for such a great sin, you know she was a prostitute, right, that she would be able to love others with great sins in their lives too. Kirsten, God allows these horrible issues in our lives for a reason. I don’t believe he causes them, we do that on our own, but he allows us the freedom to get ourselves in these places because he knows it will make us into people he can use. Look at yourself. You’re working with the teens, you have a wonderful influence with the students in the classes, you teach at the High School, and I know you’ve been to see Mrs. Black several times and I’m sure you’ve been a great comfort to her. Not many have the love, or experience, for these situations. I’ve seen you go far beyond what was expected many times. I know you have a great love within your heart for people. You may have made some big mistakes in your life and you’ve hurt people. But God’s forgiven you and now He’s using you to love his children. You have to realize this and forgive yourself. It’s over and done with. Yes, it was horrible, but your kids got through it and they aren’t those little hurting people anymore. You’re making it right by being a mother to them now and by being what God wants you to be. Forgive yourself. (Kirsten is crying; he pulls his chair close and puts his hand on hers.) Let’s pray. (She nods. Lights down.) 
Scene 4 
Jordan and Kirsten are sitting on a park bench. Leaf background.
KIRSTEN. (she looks down at her hands and then turns to Jordan.) Jordan, I talked to Pastor about my problem.
JORDAN. Kirsten, whatever you need to (Shrugs.) get us past this. 
KIRSTEN. Jordan, you know I’m divorced right? (Jordon nods.) And that it was an emotionally abusive? 
JORDAN. Yep, you told me this, and there’s no problem. 
KIRSTEN. Well there’s more. (Pause.) Right before I separated I was so sick he put me in a mental hospital. (She looks down at her hands.) 
JORDAN. (pause, then he reaches out touching her hands, then cups her chin and brings her to look at him.) Kirsten, I know how bad the abuse was, I would imagine anyone in that situation would need some help. This is not… a problem for me.
KIRSTEN. Well, there’s even more.
JORDAN. OK…
KIRSTEN. When I left, I lost my kids. (Pause.) I left them with that abusive man and went on to live my life. I didn’t even get joint custody, I knew I wouldn’t be able to handle it living that close to him. 
JORDAN. (he looks down at his lap and then up at her.) Kirsten, (Shaking his head.) I know, Shelly told me about this last Christmas when they were here. (Kirsten looks up shocked.) I didn’t say anything because I figured you’d tell me when you wanted to.
KIRSTEN. You mean you’ve known all this time, and I’ve been worrying about nothing.
JORDAN. Yep, (Sheepishly.) sorry, I didn’t think there was a problem. I guess we need to work on our communication. (Goofy.) I’ve heard that’s a big one in marriages. (They laugh.)
KIRSTEN. Oh, Jordan, you’re such a goof head. What a relief (Pauses, thinking.) and I guess if you asked me to marry you, even when you knew, you still want to marry me? (Jordan nods.) All this worry’s for nothing.
JORDAN. Yep, for nothing and yes I do.
KIRSTEN. I know my answer now, then.
JORDAN. Hold on, I want to do this right, we’ll have to pick up where we left off Sunday night. Will you have dinner with me this Friday night?
KIRSTEN. I’d love to, (Embarrassed.) Sorry about spoiling the last one, same time and place? 
JORDAN. Yep, if that’s OK with you.
KIRSTEN. Good.
(Light down on LH, Kirsten and Jordan exit RH. )
Scene 5. 
Lights up LH. Kami, Cameron, Mr. Black, and Mrs. Black are sitting. Window background. Elevator music.
THERAPIST. (comes in from RH.) OK, let’s get started here, how is everyone today?
KAMI. Well of course we’re all just dandy or we wouldn’t be here.
MR. BLACK. Kami, you promised you’d try.
MRS. BLACK. We’re all a little high strung right now, let’s just calm down first. 
KAMI. (embarrased.) Sorry mom, I’ll try to be good.
(Cameron is driving his toy car along the chair as they talk.)
MR. BLACK. Me too, Kami, it’s not just you. 
MRS. BLACK. (she reaches for Mitch’s hand.) Thank you, Mitch.
MR.BLACK. I want us back together, Sharon, and I believe God can make that happen, if I do what he asks.
MRS. BLACK. Me, too.
THERAPIST. Thank you Mr. Black. As the leader of this family, how about you getting us started. Just share how you see things and how you feel about them.
MR. BLACK. First, I want to apologize to my kids and my wife. I know I’m demanding and tend to want things a certain way. It’s just my personality, but also my way of coping with the out-of-my-control issues at work. But that’s no excuse. I want to love my family the right way. That’s why we’re here. Not because I think your mother needs help, (Embarrassed.) though I did in the beginning.
KAMI. It’s OK dad, I know I make you mad.
MR. BLACK. I know I make you mad, too.(He smiles.)
CAMERON. Funny, you both make each other mad. (He laughs like he has made a joke.)
MR. BLACK. (laughs.) It wasn’t funny then, Cameron. (They all laugh.) Anyway, this is first my problem and secondly all of our problem. We’ll work on it together.
MRS. BLACK. I haven’t been totally honest either, I’ve resented you for years, honey, and never said a thing. I realize now that was a big mistake. It built up inside me until I broke down. If we’d been sharing all along, it may have not come to this, and I may have saved my children some pain.
CAMERON. Mom, I don’t have any pain. 
MRS. BLACK. Cameron, honey, you just aren’t aware of it yet. Hopefully you haven’t been hurt too much.
CAMERON. I’m fine really, (He looks around.) Really I am. 
KAMI. Cameron, haven’t you heard us argue. What did you do then?
CAMERON. I usually put my headphones on with loud music.
MR. BLACK. That’s being hurt, Cameron. If our arguments were so bad you had to do that, it was hurting you.
CAMERON. Oh.
MRS. BLACK. I’m glad you could get away. Wish I could’ve , sometimes I just wanted to get in the car, leave and never come back.
MR. BLACK. Sorry, hon, we were bad, weren’t we.
KAMI. Me too, mom, it was mostly my fault. If it weren’t for me, you guys would’ve been happy. 
(Cameron has drifted off and is inspecting his chair with his car. He ends up under the seat on the floor.)
MR. BLACK. No, Kami. I put too much pressure and control on you. You naturally rebelled.
KAMI. But if I was a good kid I wouldn’t have been so bad.
MRS. BLACK. Kami, your personality is very strong, you share your feelings up front. Something I need to learn to do. But as you grow older you’ll learn to do this with less confrontation and more discussion. It’s just a learning thing for you.
THERAPIST. Wow, it sounds like you folks don’t need me at all. You’ve all been thinking this through.
CAMERON. (tries to sit up but bumps his head.) Ouch! (They all laugh, but he goes on with his thought.) How much are we paying you anyway? (They all laugh again.)
MR. BLACK. It’s under insurance Cameron, so we’re OK.
MRS. BLACK. We have had some pretty tough confrontations in the past few weeks, Dr. Shearer.
THERAPIST. Well, I’m glad. Does anyone else have something to say. 
KAMI. I’m not sure I should say this, but I want to get it all out. Dad, I’ve had horrible feelings towards you, I’ve even told people I hated you.
MRS. BLACK. Oh, Kami.
MR. BLACK. Kami, we’re going forward from this time, we’ve all done and said things we’re ashamed of. I’m not going to hold a grudge and neither will you, I mean… I guess that sounded bad, I mean I hope you don’t. (Shrugs.) I guess I have some habits to change. Anyway, we start fresh from here on out.
MRS. BLACK. It’s so good to see you guys talking again. I think God has made some changes around here. If he can forgive us then we can forgive each other. Pretty soon we’ll all be home together. Everybody come give me a hug.(They hug all around her.) 
ALL. Group hug! Group hug!
Scene 6. 
Lights up on RH. Romantic music. Jordan and Kirsten are seated. They already have their drinks. Window background. Romantic music.
KIRSTEN. I feel like a ton of bricks is lifted from my shoulders. What a wonderful feeling.
JORDAN. Me too, I thought something awful was wrong. You wouldn’t believe all the doubts I had between Saturday and Tuesday with Pastor. You had me going…, But it’s worked out. Let’s start over. (Pause, he googles her with his eyes.) You wore my favorite dress again. 
KIRSTEN. I wanted it to be just like last time.
JORDAN. You are beautiful, and I love you more than my own life.
KIRSTEN. I love you too, Jordan.
JORDAN. Kirsten, will you marry me? (He pulls a box from his pocket.)
KIRSTEN. I would love to be your wife, Jordan. (She reaches for his hand. He takes it and pulls the ring from the box, putting it on her hand.)
JORDAN. Kirsten, I’ll love you forever, I’ll never leave you by my own choice, and I’ll never hurt you willingly.
KIRSTEN. I know Jordan, I really believe that.
JORDAN. We’re… going to have an amazing life. No more secrets though, OK? (He brings her hand to his mouth and kisses it.)
(lights down RH, actors line up for curtain call, then lights up on stage and house.)

THE END

© 2007 Valerie A. Klaus, all rights reserved. For a fee of $15.00 this play may be copied for use in a non-profit production. The author may be contacted at sualk@watchtv.net