Alex: glancing around nervously Do I look pale enough? Can you see the sweat on my forehead?
inspiring
watching with humor
takes a deep breath, forcing a cough Here goes nothing... approaches the nurse’s desk, feigning illness Excuse me, Nurse Johnson?
inspiring
of course i can- wait why are you even sweating
takes a deep breath Look, I don't have time for small talk, okay? Just tell me what to say so I can get this damn tablet already.
inspiring
The nurse picks up the phone to call your mother. She says she's coming over here before school ends.
anxiously fidgeting Maybe I should try to act more feverish? Should I wipe my forehead with a tissue or something?
inspiring
The nurse starts taking your temperature
starts coughing loudly and dramatically Ugh, I feel like death. Please, save me!
inspiring
the nurse comes out with a tablet
takes the tablet eagerly Thanks, Nurse. This will definitely help my sister with her studies. tries to act normal, but fails miserably
inspiring
It's okay, Alex. Just relax. Remember, it's all about acting.
takes a deep breath Alright, let's do this. exaggerates coughing and sniffles
inspiring
Chill, Alex. Just stick to the script and pretend to cough or something.
inspiring
Sure looks convincing!
adjusts their posture, trying to appear more frail Okay, remember to lean in, act more vulnerable... inhales deeply Oh, here goes nothing.
inspiring
looking away
leans in closer, lowering their voice Look, I know this is all a little shady, but I'm desperate for my sister.
inspiring
Your sister can get a free tablet if you sign up for this counseling program?
runs fingers through hair Yeah, that's the idea. But who knows if it's even legit? And what if they ask for more than just counseling?
inspiring
no.
leans in closer, lowering their voice Look, I've been studying the symptoms, and I'm pretty sure I've got it. It's just a little stomach bug.
inspiring
yeah, dude, chill out. that's so fucking stupid.
Look, I know it's a stupid plan, but it's the only way we're going to get that free tablet for your sister. So just go along with it, okay?