{"id":5026,"date":"2025-01-30T18:01:43","date_gmt":"2025-01-30T18:01:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sites.rutgers.edu\/writers-house-review\/?page_id=5026"},"modified":"2025-02-05T14:39:51","modified_gmt":"2025-02-05T14:39:51","slug":"new-leaves","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/sites.rutgers.edu\/writers-house-review\/2024-winter-showcase-award-winners\/new-leaves\/","title":{"rendered":"New Leaves"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n

Kenny Au<\/em><\/h4>\n

 <\/p>\n

ACT I<\/b><\/h4>\n

EXT. QUAD – MORNING<\/span><\/p>\n

We start out on the Freshman Quad of Starkfield University as new students are walking around, chilling and exploring. It\u2019s the day after everyone was supposed to move in.<\/span><\/p>\n

There are three residence halls along the sides of the quad, and we zoom into the middle one, Rutherford Hall on the fifth floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

INT. ROOM 532 – MORNING<\/b><\/p>\n

ALLAN (18) is sitting on his bed watching the people out in the quad laying down and enjoying the sun. He is on the phone with his mom, DIANE.<\/span><\/p>\n

DIANE<\/span><\/p>\n

Hey sweetie, did you sleep okay?<\/span><\/p>\n

ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

Yea mom, it was alright.<\/span><\/p>\n

DIANE<\/span><\/p>\n

I wish we helped you move in.<\/span><\/p>\n

ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

And do fourteen hours of driving in one day? Its okay Mom. I managed okay.<\/span><\/p>\n

Allan looks around his room, from his little corner with the bed and the window to the other side with an untouched bed and empty closet space. His desk is a mess with a bunch of random things that need to be sorted out.<\/span><\/p>\n

DIANE<\/span><\/p>\n

Ok honey. Your dad and I are thinking of coming down pretty soon, to visit you and if you need anything we can bring it over.<\/span><\/p>\n

ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

Okay Mom.<\/span><\/p>\n

DIANE<\/span><\/p>\n

Or if you want to bring anything back because from the pictures you sent me the dorm looks very small and I dont want your room to be all clutt-<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

(sighs)<\/span><\/p>\n

I know. I got it.<\/span><\/p>\n

DIANE<\/span><\/p>\n

Aiyaa, let me finish. (pauses)<\/span><\/p>\n

Oh your dad wants to talk to you. I\u2019ll talk to you later. Send more pictures!<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Hey Al. Hey Dad.<\/span><\/p>\n

JACK ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

JACK<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

How was the drive?<\/span><\/p>\n

ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

Good yea.<\/span><\/p>\n

JACK<\/span><\/p>\n

How is the roommate?<\/span><\/p>\n

ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

He hasn\u2019t moved in yet. I dont even know if I have one.<\/span><\/p>\n

(chuckles) Maybe I got lucky.<\/span><\/p>\n

JACK<\/span><\/p>\n

Heh maybe.<\/span><\/p>\n

(pauses)<\/span><\/p>\n

In any case, remember it\u2019s a new school and so a new leaf. Your mom and I are always here for you.<\/span><\/p>\n

Try and have fun and make new friends.<\/span><\/p>\n

ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

Yea, I know Dad.<\/span><\/p>\n

JACK<\/span><\/p>\n

Love you.<\/span><\/p>\n

ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

Love you too.<\/span><\/p>\n

Allan hangs up the phone. CUT TO:<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

INT. PRESTON\u2019S ROOM – DAY<\/b><\/p>\n

The room has a huge desk that is one big computer setup, top of the line pc parts. A shelf of awards and random rich people shit that a 20 year old influencer would have. A lot of past brand deal samples. There are only like two boxes filled with clothes, bedding, etc. Definitely not enough to move in fully. Two guys stand right outside the door as MARGARET (mid 20s) is standing in the middle of the room, Preston\u2019s manager, and on the phone with Preston\u2019s uncle.<\/span><\/p>\n

MARGARET<\/span><\/p>\n

No, I have no idea where the hell he is right now! Respectfully sir. We were supposed to leave an hour ago and he is god knows where.<\/span><\/p>\n

(pauses)<\/span><\/p>\n

Yea the shoot went well. It\u2019s going to be in the magazine in two weeks. The editor will send you a final copy before it gets released.<\/span><\/p>\n

(pauses)<\/span><\/p>\n

Yes I\u2019ll let you know when we make it to the school. Bye sir.<\/span><\/p>\n

Margaret groans in frustration and motions for two guys outside to come in the room to start moving the boxes to the limo. As the two are leaving, PRESTON (20) walks in, shirtless and with swimming trunks on. Literally dripping wet onto the carpet floor that resembles his shaggy brown hair.<\/span><\/p>\n

MARGARET WHERE.HAVE.YOU.BEEN?!<\/span><\/p>\n

PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

(puts his hands up)<\/span><\/p>\n

Woah, relax. I was at Joey\u2019s. He had a little going away pool party for me. I didn\u2019t see the time.<\/span><\/p>\n

MARGARET<\/span><\/p>\n

(whispers to self) Goddammit Joey.<\/span><\/p>\n

(to Preston)<\/span><\/p>\n

Did you even finish packing yet? We are running an hour late and not to mention that you have a photoshoot later for that drink brand tonight at the campus.<\/span><\/p>\n

PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

Yeaaaa. Of course.<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

PRESTON (CONT\u2019D)<\/span><\/p>\n

I mean I told Phillip 1 and 2 to just put whatever in the boxes. Not that big of a deal.<\/span><\/p>\n

MARGARET<\/span><\/p>\n

Not that big of a deal? There were only two boxes packed. Ugh.<\/span><\/p>\n

(turns to the doorway) HEY YOU TWO. COME BACK HERE.<\/span><\/p>\n

The two guys from before quickly run back into the room. PHILLIP 1 is the taller of the two with blonde hair, donning a black suit with a red tie. PHILLIP 2 has brown hair with blonde highlights and is wearing a navy blue suit with a blue tie.<\/span><\/p>\n

PHILLIP 1<\/span><\/p>\n

Yes you called?<\/span><\/p>\n

MARGARET<\/span><\/p>\n

Was that all of Preston\u2019s stuff you packed?<\/span><\/p>\n

PHILLIP 2<\/span><\/p>\n

(sheepishly) Yesss.<\/span><\/p>\n

MARGARET<\/span><\/p>\n

Unbelievable. I am dealing with absolute children. Okay you two (points at the Phillips) Continue packing because surely<\/span><\/p>\n

Preston needs more than two boxes to move in with.<\/span><\/p>\n

(points to Preston)<\/span><\/p>\n

And you. You are going to help them because we are already behind schedule. But before that, take.<\/span><\/p>\n

    \n
  1. shower. You reek of chlorine, its making me want to claw my eyes out!<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Go! NOW!<\/span><\/p>\n

    The Phillips start rapidly packing up more of Preston\u2019s clothes and bedsheets, while Preston quietly picks out an outfit. He goes into the bathroom and locks the door behind him. He turns on the shower just as he hears Margaret on the phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

    MARGARET (O.S.) I CAN\u2019T STAND HIM! HE\u2019S<\/span><\/p>\n

    INSUFFERABLE! AN ACTUAL MAN-CHILD! I FEEL MORE LIKE A BABYSITTER THAN A MANAGER!<\/span>
    \n<\/span><\/p>\n

    MARGARET (O.S.) (CONT\u2019D)<\/span><\/p>\n

    (pauses)<\/span><\/p>\n

    I know it\u2019s just a stepping stone to something better. But it\u2019s so shit right now, Nancy. I\u2019m literally helping him move to college. I should be doing this shit for my siblings not for my client. It\u2019s one thing if he actually grew a pair and started doing stuff on his own instead of me ordering him around. He\u2019s only famous because his uncle got him that movie role like 10 years ago.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Preston sighs and goes into the shower trying to drown out the rest of Margaret\u2019s call.<\/span><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    INT. ROOM 532 – DAY<\/b><\/p>\n

    Allan is sitting at his desk, with the class schedule planner open on his laptop. His schedule looks rough, some morning classes, but also very late evening classes. A knock comes on his door. He gets up and opens up and a girl a little taller than him with brown hair and a pair of glasses, LILY, stands in front with a big smile.<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    Hi! It\u2019s Allan right?<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Yea! Lily? Sorry when everyone was introducing themselves yesterday, I remember so few.<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    No honestly same. And yea its Lily.<\/span><\/p>\n

    (hesitates)<\/span><\/p>\n

    So since we are both out of state students. Do you wanna go exploring the campus?<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Oh umm. Honestly yea why not, I dont have anything else planned for today.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Allan grabs his plaid jacket and heads on out with Lily.<\/span>
    \n<\/span><\/p>\n

    EXT. QUAD – A COUPLE MINUTES LATER<\/b><\/p>\n

    The two of them are walking on a path towards the inner part of the university. On the quad, it is quite lively. There are people reading, yapping, doing yoga.<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    So how long was your drive to campus? Mine was about 3 hours.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Oh umm. About 7.<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    7! Oh man that\u2019s rough. You must really wanted to leave your hometown.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Heh, yea.<\/span><\/p>\n

    (pauses)<\/span><\/p>\n

    How are you liking campus so far?<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    Not bad. My parents and I visited over the summer, I think I liked the umm, building that looks like an anvil-<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    OMG! The Smith Building? I love that building so much. I mean I never saw it in person but online pics were amazing.<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    Do you wanna go check it out?<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Of course!<\/span><\/p>\n

    Lily\u2019s stomach starts to grumble, she starts to turn red. Allan looks at her and then her stomach. His starts to growl too. A second passes. And then they both burst out laughing.<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    Sounds like we both need some lunch.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Yea hah. I think the dining hall is close to the Smith building so we can eat then head over.<\/span>
    \n<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    For sure! I heard that they have the best pizzas on campus.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Ah. I\u2019m lactose intolerant, my pills are in my room though, so maybe next time.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Allan takes out his wallet to get his ID, but its not there.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Oh shoot. My ID is also back in my room.<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    Oh no. Don\u2019t worry we can quickly head back.<\/span><\/p>\n

    (pauses)<\/span><\/p>\n

    You can also get your lactaid pills too. Haha.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Haha yea.<\/span><\/p>\n

    (pauses)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Speaking of food ,what\u2019s your favorite f-<\/span><\/p>\n

    Lily\u2019s phone interrupts their conversation with a ring. It is a text from her roommate. Lily\u2019s mouth gapes open.<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    (screams)<\/span><\/p>\n

    OH.MY.GOD. PRESTON DAVIS IS HERE ON CAMPUS! AHHHHHHH!<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Who?<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    You dont know who he is?! He\u2019s only like one of the best influencers out there. His product reviews are so honest and direct. And he has been in a couple movies since he was a kid!<\/span><\/p>\n

    Allan pulls out his phone to look him up. He recognizes a movie Preston was in early back in his career.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Oh! He was the kid in Traffic Cone Flowers. I love that movie.<\/span>
    \n<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    I can\u2019t believe he\u2019s here! I wonder why he\u2019s here! Omg is he doing a shoot here or a movie?!<\/span><\/p>\n

    Another text appears on Lily\u2019s phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    OH SHIT! HES A STUDENT HERE! AND HES IN OUR BUILDING!<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Oh?<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    LETS GO COME ON!<\/span><\/p>\n

    Lily grabs Allan and together they sprint back towards Rutherford Hall.<\/span><\/p>\n

    END OF ACT I<\/b><\/p>\n

    \n

    ACT II<\/b><\/h4>\n

    EXT. RUTHERFORD HALL- MOMENTS AGO<\/span><\/p>\n

    Preston\u2019s limo pulls up to the parking lot. Margaret gets out of the car to head inside to meet with the RA. Preston is still inside the car. His public disguise, because of course he has one, consist of an oversized jacket, baseball cap, and sunglasses.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    (whispers to self)<\/span><\/p>\n

    It\u2019ll be okay. You are just like them. Keep it low-key.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Preston exits the limo and sees that no one is waiting outside for him, except the Phillips who are starting to unload the limo. It\u2019s calm. As Preston goes to help the Phillips, Margaret steps out of the building.<\/span><\/p>\n

    MARGARET<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON! They need you inside.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    Got it! Coming.<\/span><\/p>\n

    (to the Phillips)<\/span><\/p>\n

    I think I got it, thanks guys.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Preston picks up a bag of clothes and a suitcase, heading towards the building.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PHILLIP 1 & PHILLIP 2<\/span><\/p>\n

    Glad to be of service.<\/span>
    \n<\/span><\/p>\n

    INT. RUTHERFORD HALL GROUND FLOOR – DAY<\/b><\/p>\n

    Inside, Preston is amazed at the simplicity of the lobby. He walks past through it and goes around the corner. He sees the RA talking with Margaret. The RA, PENNY, has a navy blue Starkfield University Resident Assistant shirt and a large megaphone by her side. Preston walks up to her.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PENNY<\/span><\/p>\n

    Hey! Preston right?<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    (trying to be flirty) Yea that\u2019s me, and you?<\/span><\/p>\n

    PENNY<\/span><\/p>\n

    (dry)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Penny. I\u2019m one of the RAs here and actually since you are on the fifth floor I am also your floor RA.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    (smiles)<\/span><\/p>\n

    I guess we\u2019ll be seeing more of each other then.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PENNY<\/span><\/p>\n

    (serious)<\/span><\/p>\n

    If you are seeing me often, then that means something is wrong. I gave my other residents the low- down but I\u2019ll make sure you get it.<\/span><\/p>\n

    If you dont bother me, I won\u2019t bother you. Obviously, if it\u2019s very serious, I need to be notified, but I dont give a shit otherwise.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Penny eyes Preston, top to bottom.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PENNY (CONT\u2019D)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Also, not my type.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Penny hands him the key to his room, and heads outside. Preston stands there, a little dumbfounded. Margaret chuckles to herself.<\/span><\/p>\n

    MARGARET<\/span><\/p>\n

    Flirting with the RA on the first day here? Shameful.<\/span>
    \n<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    BRUH! It ain\u2019t like that. I was trying to be nice. I mean isn\u2019t that why I\u2019m here? To be with my own peers and not brands or 40 year old directors who dont know what TikTok is?<\/span><\/p>\n

    MARGARET<\/span><\/p>\n

    You parents wanted you to try and experience something normal. And your uncle needs your help to reach a different audience. But does that mean flirt with everyone here? Mhm yea right, come on lets get you moved in.<\/span><\/p>\n

    The two head towards the elevator when a small girl, CHARLIE, bumps into Preston, and they both fall over. Preston\u2019s hat and sunglasses fall on the floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

    CHARLIE<\/span><\/p>\n

    OH shoot! I\u2019m so sorry, I-<\/span><\/p>\n

    Charlie locks eyes with Preston. She knows who he is.<\/span><\/p>\n

    CHARLIE<\/span><\/p>\n

    (softly)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Oh my god it\u2019s Preston Davis. (louder)<\/span><\/p>\n

    You\u2019re Preston Davis! (to self)<\/span><\/p>\n

    I just bumped into Preston Davis.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Margaret turns around and sees what happened. Preston stands up and helps Charlie up.<\/span><\/p>\n

    MARGARET<\/span><\/p>\n

    (whispers)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Shit. Thought we would at least get a day. Just so he could get situated in his own room.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    (smiles)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Yea, that\u2019s me. And you are?<\/span><\/p>\n

    CHARLIE<\/span><\/p>\n

    Charlie! I\u2019m on the fifth floor.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    Hah. No way, that\u2019s where I\u2019m heading too.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Preston sees Margaret getting into the elevator.<\/span>
    \n<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON (CONT\u2019D)<\/span><\/p>\n

    I guess I\u2019ll see you around then yea.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Preston winks and makes his way to the elevator.<\/span><\/p>\n

    CHARLIE<\/span><\/p>\n

    (whispers) See you around.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Charlie takes out her phone and starts texting someone.<\/span><\/p>\n

    CHARLIE (CONT\u2019D)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Lily needs to know, oh my god.<\/span><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    INT. FIFTH FLOOR RUTHERFORD HALL – DAY<\/b><\/p>\n

    CUT TO:<\/span>
    \n<\/span><\/p>\n

    We come back to Lily and Allan on their floor, now multiple people are out of their rooms looking down the hallway to Preston. He seems to be in room 532.<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    Wait isn\u2019t that your room?<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Oh, okay then. I guess I do have a roommate then. Cool.<\/span><\/p>\n

    (whispers) Cool.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Allan is right outside and he sees Preston starting to unpack and Margaret is standing there, unmoving, a little shocked and surprised. He knocks on the door. This breaks Margaret out of her trance.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    You must be the new guy on the floor. Hi, my name is Al-<\/span><\/p>\n

    MARGARET<\/span><\/p>\n

    What the hell is your stuff doing in here?<\/span><\/p>\n

    Allan is a little taken aback.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Oh. I mean I live here. I\u2019m your (Points to Preston)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Roommate. Allan.<\/span><\/p>\n

    MARGARET<\/span><\/p>\n

    I specifically requested a single room for him.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Oh well. Maybe there isn\u2019t one free here.<\/span><\/p>\n

    MARGARET<\/span><\/p>\n

    (frustrated and annoyed) This is unbelievable. I can\u2019t believe it! UGHHHHHHHHH.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Preston goes to where Allan is and daps him up.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    Hey what\u2019s up. You can ignore Margaret for a bit, she\u2019ll get over it. To be honest, I wasn\u2019t expecting to not have a roommate, but hey all good. I\u2019m Preston, Preston Davis, now dont get too shocked I know seeing a celebrity is so cool and amazing, we can take pics later, but I\u2019m just here for a good time and an education.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Oh, I kinda dont care about all that, nice to meet you man.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Preston squints and eyes him, trying to see if Allan is lying or not. He stops as he is uncertain. He wants to push his buttons<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    Hey Margaret. It\u2019s all cool now right? I mean doesn\u2019t seem like he\u2019ll be much of a nuisance. Kinda boring not gonna lie. I mean look at this stuff, so normal. Basic.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    (defensively)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Bro chill. I thought we were cool.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    We are man! I mean that in a good way. I need boring, I need normal, or at least that what she<\/span><\/p>\n

    (points to Margaret) tells me. I\u2019m too \u201cextra.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

    (pauses)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Hey wait a minute. (MORE)<\/span>
    \n<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON (CONT\u2019D)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Since we are going to be rooming, do you wanna help me film for my page? I need someone here since my old camera crew can\u2019t be on school grounds 24\/7. Ugh school policy.<\/span><\/p>\n

    MARGARET<\/span><\/p>\n

    You are too extra.<\/span><\/p>\n

    I\u2019m going to find that damn RA and see what we can do because rooming with him<\/span><\/p>\n

    (eyes Allan)<\/span><\/p>\n

    is a mess in disguise, I can tell. Your Uncle won\u2019t be happy about that.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Allan is shocked and Margaret leaves the room, passing by Lily and Charlie. They both shuffle in, having heard at basically what transpired here.<\/span><\/p>\n

    CHARLIE<\/span><\/p>\n

    Hey Preston. I guess welcome to Starkfield. Here is my roommate, Lily. We are both huge fans.<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    Yes! Hi!<\/span><\/p>\n

    (to Allan) Hey, you okay?<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Yea, I\u2019m good. Heh didn\u2019t expect all that today.<\/span><\/p>\n

    (to Preston) She seems honest.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    She is helpful most times. (to Lily)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Nice to meet you, Lils.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Lily giggles.<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    Hey so there\u2019s this party tonight that a couple of us are going to, its a couple minutes away from campus.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    Oh, the Factory?<\/span><\/p>\n

    LILY<\/span><\/p>\n

    Yea! How did you know?<\/span>
    \n<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    I\u2019m meeting someone there for a promotional ad. They invited me to come to the party afterwards.<\/span><\/p>\n

    CHARLIE<\/span><\/p>\n

    Oh cool! I guess we\u2019ll see you there. Allan are you coming?<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Nah, I dont think so. Parties aren\u2019t my thing.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    And that\u2019s why your nickname now is Boring Allan.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Charlie laughs a little, but Lily isn\u2019t having it.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    (little annoyed) Come on chill.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    Relax, I\u2019m just playing.<\/span><\/p>\n

    I\u2019ll see both of you there (smiles)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Lily and Charlie wave goodbye and head back to their room.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    It is getting annoying every time you\u2019re doing that.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    Don’t be a buzzkill, dude. Relax.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Okay sure.<\/span><\/p>\n

    (pauses)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Hey what\u2019s your number man, just in case we need to text each other about anything?<\/span><\/p>\n

    Allan pulls out his phone and its like maybe 3 years old. Preston looks at it like how someone looks at a museum exhibit. He quickly takes it and inspects it.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    This still works? How do you live like this?<\/span><\/p>\n

    He pulls out his phone, and it\u2019s the newest model to Allan\u2019s. He shoots a text from his phone to Allan\u2019s. He hands back the phone to Allan.<\/span>
    \n<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON (CONT\u2019D)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Boring Allan more like Ancient Allan! Haha!<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    That\u2019s it! I had enough. What is your problem man? Its like you are making fun of every little part of my life. What is wrong with you?<\/span><\/p>\n

    I thought you were chill, but now you\u2019re just an ass.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    Look man, I mean no harm. But you do make it easy. Come on.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Preston points at various objects around the room that Allan brought with him from home. He grabs a picture of Allan\u2019s family.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON (CONT\u2019D)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Like <\/span>awww.<\/span> So sweet.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Give me that.<\/span><\/p>\n

    (He takes back the picture)<\/span><\/p>\n

    I dont know how Margaret stands you every day, but I can\u2019t even do this just for today. Maybe she\u2019s right, you might be better off in your own room, alone.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Allan looks at the time on his phone. Its already the afternoon. He\u2019s going to be late for lunch with Lily. He sees his ID on his desk and grabs it.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    I\u2019ll see you later tonight or whenever.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Allan exits the room, leaving Preston standing there alone.<\/span><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    END OF ACT II<\/b><\/p>\n

    \n

    ACT III<\/b><\/h4>\n

    EXT. THE FACTORY – EVENING<\/span><\/p>\n

    The Factory is an abandoned factory a couple blocks from campus. It is known to be a place for parties and other college activities. Preston has his camera set up right at the entrance ready for the brand promotion.<\/span>
    \n<\/span><\/p>\n

    A case of Lightning Fresh, an energy drink brand founded by one of the Starkfield alumni, is on the ground near him. The founder, LIAM, is by his side. As well as a couple more people off to the side, angling lights and prepping the lights all around the Factory.<\/span><\/p>\n

    LIAM<\/span><\/p>\n

    So the plan is for you to be here in front of the Factory and go, \u201cLightning Fresh, lights up your world\u201d and from there we got these lights all around the Factory which are going to light up. You got all that dude?<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    Hell yeah. And I get to keep this case?<\/span><\/p>\n

    LIAM<\/span><\/p>\n

    For sure, once we post this ad, we are reaching to more than just gamers and stressed college students. Sales are going to be through the roooof!<\/span><\/p>\n

    (to everyone)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Alright, lets get ready to film it. Preston you ready?<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    Yup.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Preston stands in the center of the lights picking up a can of Lightning Fresh. The phone starts recording.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    (enthusiastically) Lightning Fresh! Lights up your world!<\/span><\/p>\n

    Preston opens up the can and takes a sip. He looks behind and the Factory starts lighting up in hues of white and all colors across the light spectrum. The phone stops recording.<\/span><\/p>\n

    LIAM<\/span><\/p>\n

    Got it! Perfect! Great job Preston!<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    Thanks man.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Preston takes another sip of the drink.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON (CONT\u2019D)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Wow, that\u2019s something.<\/span>
    \n<\/span><\/p>\n

    LIAM<\/span><\/p>\n

    You dont need to finish that right now. It has so much caffeine. Plus you gotta stay for the party happening like right now.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    True! Hold up<\/span><\/p>\n

    Preston takes another big swig of the drink. He barely manages to swallow it.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON (CONT\u2019D)<\/span><\/p>\n

    There we go, I\u2019m done now. (throws the drink on the<\/span><\/p>\n

    floor)<\/span><\/p>\n

    LETS GO PARTY!!!<\/span><\/p>\n

    Everyone cheers in excitement and they all head inside the Factory.<\/span><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    INT. THE FACTORY – LATER IN THE EVENING<\/b><\/p>\n

    Its a couple hours later and Preston is fully drunk. He has had many shots and many beers. As he walks around, he notices everyone staring at him, or just glances in his direction.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON (V.O.)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Oh no, they are all looking at me. Quick look down at your hands. If you aren\u2019t looking at them, they aren\u2019t looking at you.<\/span><\/p>\n

    He looks down at his hands, one has another beer, the other has his keys clearly drunk behavior. He continues walking forward until he bumps into a guy, way bigger than him.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PARTYGOER<\/span><\/p>\n

    Watch it.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    (slowly) Whoops, sorry.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PARTYGOER<\/span><\/p>\n

    Dude, you might need to chill on those drinks.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    You. Might. Need to. Chill. Out.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Preston gives him a little shove, but he doesn\u2019t budge.<\/span>
    \n<\/span><\/p>\n

    Instead he grabs Preston up (he\u2019s a twig so light work), and Preston drops his beer and keys. The Partygoer takes him outside of the Factory. He goes back inside.<\/span><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    EXT. THE FACTORY – NIGHT<\/b><\/p>\n

    Preston starts walking for a while in a random direction. Not fully conscious of where he\u2019s at.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON (V.O.)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Why did I shove him? Not cool man. I\u2019m supposed to be different here. But nope same old Preston.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Complete idiot.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    (out loud) Damn it!<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON (V.O.)<\/span><\/p>\n

    Margaret thinks so. Mom and Dad think so. Even my roommate thinks so and he met me only today! I did a real number on him.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Preston starts tearing up, he looks up at the sky and then around him and realize he is lost.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON SHITTTTTT!<\/span><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    EXT. QUAD – NIGHT<\/b><\/p>\n

    Allan has walked around campus the past couple hours and is tired and is heading back to Rutherford. His phone starts to vibrate. It\u2019s Preston.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    What?<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    (sniffles)<\/span><\/p>\n

    I dont know where I am. Can you help me?<\/span><\/p>\n

    Allan tenses up again and for a moment, he starts to tear up.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON (CONT\u2019D)<\/span><\/p>\n

    I\u2019m scared, I dont know who to turn to. I\u2019m so sorry for the way I acted today. I was a dick, an ass, all of it.<\/span>
    \n<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Okay, okay. Lets get you back on campus first okay? What can you see around you?<\/span><\/p>\n

    Preston looks around and its all trees, branches, and a street lamp, a 100 feet away. Its an old one, as the light is flickering on and off every couple of seconds.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    Theres a lamp that\u2019s flickering, everything else is trees.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Allan scans the quad looking for a lamp on the outskirts of the campus, near the forest. He spots one that\u2019s on the opposite side of the quad, near one of the other residential halls.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Okay, go to that lamp. And then from there you should be back near the quad on campus. I will be waiting in the middle of the quad.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Preston makes his way to the lamp and in the distance sees Allan on the phone.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PRESTON<\/span><\/p>\n

    I see you!<\/span><\/p>\n

    They both make their way to each other and it culminates in Preston hugging Allan. Tears splashing onto his jacket.<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Lets get you back inside.<\/span><\/p>\n

    They walk towards Rutherford.<\/span><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    INT. ROOM 532- MORNING<\/b><\/p>\n

    It is the next morning and Preston is fast asleep while Allan is awake and looking at his courses for the semester. He still needs to switch them around. A knock is at his door. He gets up and its Penny.<\/span><\/p>\n

    PENNY<\/span><\/p>\n

    Hey, Allan right?<\/span><\/p>\n

    ALLAN<\/span><\/p>\n

    Yep that\u2019s me.<\/span>
    \n<\/span><\/p>\n

    PENNY<\/span><\/p>\n

    Okay, sorry about this but you have until the end of the day to move out of this room. You are being placed into Billingsly Hall which luckily is just the building over.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Sorry again.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Penny leaves and Allan is standing there, dumbfounded. He looks at Preston still sleeping.<\/span><\/p>\n

    FADE TO BLACK<\/span><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    \n

    Kenny Au<\/strong> is from Egg Harbor Township and is majoring in Materials Science and Engineering with minors in Creative Writing and Math. He is expected to graduate in May 2025. Outside of class, he likes to read, watch tv, write, listen to music, and play video games.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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