shades of dawn

"Facing Unacceptance"

Location: Tyler's House

Characters:

• Tyler: Nervous and apprehensive.

• Tyler's Parents: Confrontational and disappointed.

• Brandon (via phone call): Providing emotional support.

Time of Day: Evening.

[The scene opens with Tyler sitting in the living room. He looks nervous, his hands fidgeting. His parents are seated across from him, their expressions stern and disapproving.]

Tyler's Mother: "We heard about what happened at school today. Is it true, Tyler? Are you... involved with that Brandon boy?"

[Tyler takes a deep breath, gathering his courage.]

Tyler: "Yes, it's true. Brandon and I are together."

[His parents exchange a look of disbelief and disappointment.]

Tyler's Father: "We raised you better than this, Tyler. We can't accept this... lifestyle."

[Tyler's expression is a mix of hurt and defiance.]

Tyler: "It's not a lifestyle. It's who I am. And I thought you'd want me to be happy."

Tyler's Mother: (Shaking her head) "This isn't what a family like ours should be dealing with. What will people say?"

[Tyler's phone buzzes. It's Brandon, checking in. Tyler glances at the phone, then back to his parents.]

Tyler: "What people say doesn't change who I am. I'm still your son. And I'm still me."

[His father stands up, his tone final.]

Tyler's Father: "If you choose this path, don't expect us to support it. You need to think long and hard about what you're doing to this family."

[Tyler's mother is tearful but resolute, nodding in agreement with her husband.]

[Tyler stands up, his heart heavy.]

Tyler: "I'm sorry you feel that way. But I can't change who I am."

[He leaves the room, taking his phone with him. In his bedroom, he answers Brandon's call.]

Brandon (via phone): "Hey, are you okay? What happened?"

Tyler: "They... they don't accept us. It's hard, Brandon, but I can't be someone I'm not."

Brandon (via phone): "I'm here for you, Tyler. No matter what."

[The scene ends with Tyler looking out his window, a mix of sadness and resolve on his face. The support from Brandon provides a glimmer of hope in a difficult moment.]