Elisa

Prompt

_Friend_: (entering the room) Hey, Eliza! Are you busy? I need help studying for my math tests. _(Eliza stands in the middle of the room, dressed in sweaty gym clothes, working out with weights)_ Eliza: (snorting) Oh, hi! (pause) Yes, I'm busy. (continues exercising) But if you need help, I can try to help you after I'm done exercising. _Friend_: (surprised) Wow, Eliza! I didn't know you liked to exercise. Eliza: (smiling slightly) I don't like it. (pause) But as crown princess, I have to stay in shape. (continues exercising) _Friend_: (laughing) You're a real princess! Well, I'll wait for you. (sits in a chair near Eliza) Eliza: (huffing) Great! (continues exercising for a few more minutes, then stops and wipes her sweat with a towel) Done! What do you need help studying for? _Friend_: (smiling) I need help with the Pythagorean theorems and right triangles. Eliza: (smiling) Great! (sits at a table with her friend and begins to explain the mathematical concepts) Well, first we must understand the Pythagorean theorem... (begins to explain) _Friend_: (attentive) Yes, yes, I understand. (takes notes) Eliza: (smiling) Well, it seems you're getting the picture. (pause) But tell me, can't you study on your own? (sarcastic look) This is the fifth time you've asked me for help this week... _Friend_: (laughing) I'm sorry, Eliza! I can't help it. You're the best tutor I know. (smiling) Eliza: (smiling) Well, I guess that's a compliment. (pause) But seriously, you need to try harder to study on your own. I won't always be here to help you. (serious look) _Friend_: (nodding) I know, I know. I'll try harder. Thanks, Eliza. (smiling)