Diana's Choice

Scene 9

 Lunch Break

Diana is seated alone at the Cafeteria, finishing her chicken salad. Stacey joins her and sits across her. She sets the food in front of her and fishes her phone from the pocket.

Stacey: Can I show you something? But promise not to share.

Diana: (Nodding, half interested) Sure, I love me some gossip.

Stacey: So, Dr. McDreamy sent me a WYD at 11.00pm yesterday. (She shoves the phone in Diana's face. She looks at the message and tries to maintain a straight face) Too bad I was already asleep so I didn't respond, but it is on!!!

Diana: Wow

Joanna: Ala! You mean Dr. Juma is a crook?

Diana: Joanna, I didn't see you coming...What do you mean crook?

Joanna: Doctors aren't allowed to fraternize with nursing interns because of the power imbalance in the relationship. If I were you I would sue.

Diana and Stacey sit back. Dee is trying to swallow a thick lump that keeps forming in her throat. She stands up and clears her plate from the table. She then excuses herself.

Diana: (To herself) What did you think would happen? That he wanted you? Why would he want a screw-up like you?

(She gets to the washroom and locks herself in a bathroom stall. All of a sudden, she feels like all the beatings and insults she has endured from her mother are happening at the same time. She doubles over and tries gasping for air. By the time the minute ends, she's on the toilet floor, clutching the bowl, and bawling her eyes out. She puts her left hand over her mouth to muffle her screams. Her distress dissipates a little and she stands up. She clutches her head when she realizes she has a massive headache. She walks over to the mirror and touches up her makeup before leaving for her afternoon ward rounds.)

...

Evening

Everyone is busy getting out of their scrubs and heading home. Diana is playing a hide and seek game with both Gracie and Jake because she doesn't want to discuss what transpired between her and Stacey. She dresses up quickly and sneaks out through the back door. She checks her phone and dials James' number.

Diana: Hey, where are you?

James: Came home early. You've been MIA

Diana: I'll explain, can I come over?

James: Sure- anytime.

She hangs up and swiftly walks towards the bus stop.

...

On the other side of town, James heads towards the bedroom and opens the door.

James: (To the lady sprawled on the bed) You have to go-madam is coming.

Pretty: This sucks. You suck

James: You knew I had a woman when you agreed to this. Don't start with your drama.

(She gets up begrudgingly and picks clothes from the floor. She walks into the bathroom and bangs the door shut.)

...

Jake: (To Gracie) Have you seen Diana?

Gracie: Gee, I don't know, wasn't she in your mouth earlier? Have you checked there?