The Calloway estate.
The party is elegant soft jazz, expensive lighting, and too many fake smiles. Jayden stands with Lena, drink in hand, surrounded by adults
Lena
(Low voice)
Everyone here is pretending they actually like each other
Lena
welcome to being a Calloway
Lena
Where’s your brother?
Jayden
(glances around) Probably hiding. Like always
Scene shift: Back garden. Noah leans against a railing, sipping soda, away from the crowd. Avery approaches.
Avery
You look like you’re about to explode.
Noah
I hate this. The lights. The lies. The way Dad keeps parading Jayden like he’s some perfect trophy.
Avery
You’re not invisible, you know
Noah
i am to him
Back inside. Mr. Calloway waves over Jayden and Lena
Mr. Grayson Calloway
(smiling tightly)
There’s a senator here tonight. Make sure he sees your charm, Jayden
Jayden
(tense smile) Yes, sir.
Just then, Noah walks in, eyes sharp. He catches the tail end of it.
Noah
Of course Another performance
Mr. Grayson Calloway
(Coolly)Noah. Didn’t expect you to make an appearance.”
Noah
Sorry I don’t clean up well enough for your photo pops
Mr. Grayson Calloway
(warning voice) Not now, Noah
Mr. Grayson Calloway
(Stepping closer) Watch your tone
Noah
Why? I’m not the one you care about embarrassing
The room quiets slightly. A few guests glance over
Mr. Grayson Calloway
(through gritted teeth)Step outside. Now
Jayden
(intervening) Dad
Mr. Grayson Calloway
(sharp) Stay out of this
Outside on the patio The door clicks shut behind them
Mr. Grayson Calloway
You’ve had a choice since day one. Step up or stay out of our way
Noah
I’m not your project. I’m your son.
Mr. Grayson Calloway
Then act like it Or you’re nothing to this family
Noah
Noah’s fists clench, eyes burning
Noah
Then maybe I'm nothing
He turns and walks off. Jayden watches from inside, face unreadable
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