SCENE K

INT. GUIDANCE OFFICE – LATER

Ariella sits with her head planted on the desk surrounded by piles and piles of folders. Another student enters. Ariella lifts her head to observe the student's outfit.

ARIELLA

Add a cute necklace and you're good to go.

SOCCER STUDENT

What?

ARIELLA

Oh. You're one of them. You should come back tomorrow. I'm the last person you want to talk to.

The student sits down.

SOCCER STUDENT

I just really need some advice. I just joined the soccer team—and I love it—but sometimes I wonder if I'm really ready. I don't want to disappoint my team. What if I'm not as good as everyone thinks?

Ariella understands what that feels like.

Mrs. Shannon enters, eavesdropping at the door.

ARIELLA

You made the team because the coach sees something in you. Do the best you can and know that you've been chosen for a reason.

SOCCER STUDENT

Thanks. You're pretty good at this.

She exits and Mrs. Shannon enters the room.

MRS. SHANNON

That, by far, was the best advice you've given all day.

ARIELLA

I could relate to how she was feeling.

MRS. SHANNON

And that's what makes you a great guidance counselor. You were able to speak from your heart and your own experience to help someone else.

ARIELLA

Maybe the test is right. Maybe I have a future in counseling after all.

MRS. SHANNON

Actually...I have a confession to make. The aptitude test scores were fake. I wanted you kids to see how important it is to try new things and discover what else you could be great at. Just because you already have a dream, that doesn't mean it has to be your only dream.

ARIELLA

Then why'd you make Caleb a fashion designer? That's his dream too.

MRS. SHANNON

I wanted to give him a confidence boost. He has a unique point of view and if things don't work out at least he had his moment. But you have tapped into the social skills of relating to others and giving them the sincere advice they need. I'd say that's a great talent to have in the fashion industry.

ARIELLA

Thanks, Mrs. Shannon. This has truly been an eye-opening experience. Can I go now?

MRS. SHANNON

Your job here is done. Oh, before you go.

She pulls back her hair to reveal colorful earrings.

MRS. SHANNON (CONT'D)

How do I look?

ARIELLA

Fabulous.

FADE OUT.

END OF ACT TWO