Adapted from KISS AND CRY
By TOM ROWAN
TIME
The late 1990s
LAUREN: It's not too late to change your mind and come with me. It’ll be fun!
FIONA: I wish I could.
LAUREN: You said you’ve always wanted to go to Hersheypark.
FIONA: The Fahrenheit rollercoaster is awesome!!
LAUREN: Not the point.
FIONA: I'd give anything to be there, but the my parents just .. .
LAUREN: I know.
FIONA: And actually, we should be glad they moved up our trip to Aunt Gert’s. This means I’ll be in town on your birthday!
LAUREN: Yeah, but who knows if I’ll even have a party? Mom said she can’t afford one right now, and by the time she gets her tax refund-
FIONA: Just relax. We’ll do something for your birthday.
LAUREN: Like where? Chucky Cheese?
FIONA: We’re not just gonna skip your birthday.
LAUREN: Like we didn’t just skip it last year?
FIONA: That was different. Your parents were in the middle of a divorce. They had a lot going on.
LAUREN: I thought when parents split up they were supposed to try to buy your love with expensive gifts! …not forget about you.
FIONA: Look on the bright side!
LAUREN: What bright side?
FIONA: Well… they probably feel so guilty that you’ll get the best party you’ve ever had! I mean… it’s not even your birthday and your dad’s taking you to Hersheypark!
LAUREN: Guilt can be a good thing…
FIONA: Exactly. (Grins.) Have fun tomorrow.
LAUREN: I will. Have fun at Aunt Gert’s.
FIONA: I’m not sure you’re allowed to have fun at Aunt Gert’s. I’ll have to check the rule book.
LAUREN: See you Monday.
FIONA: See ya.