Awkward. (2011–2016): Season 3, Episode 20 - Who I Want to Be - full transcript
Jenna is challenged to question who she wants to be in this epic season finale.
Previously on Awkward...
This book had a huge impact
on my journey as a writer.
Maybe it can do the same
for you.
Matty, this is
my friend Bailey.
Thank you for coming.
- Prom.
- Prom.
I just wanted to make sure
that you were cool
with me asking Bailey.
So you want
to take Bailey to prom.
Is that okay?
It's awesome.
Fantastic.
She's fantastic.
You're fantastic.
It's-- it's fantastic.
- She's gonna be stoked.
- You think so?
Why wouldn't she?
You're Matty McKibben.
And I was Jenna Hamilton,
the idiot who finally knew
she had permanently messed up
the best relationship
she'd ever have.
[Door closes]
[Laughs]
What did he say?
How did he ask?
He's taking someone else.
Oh.
Sweetie.
Can I just be alone?
Of course.
[Sighs]
I was a fool to think
all the bad
I had put into the universe
could so easily be forgotten.
Matty's rebound with Devon
had paved the way
for the real deal.
And the real deal was
not going to be me.
It was going to be Bailey.
[Soft music]
♪
I naively thought
I was finally back
on solid ground,
but the sad truth
revealed that my foundation
was too weak
to handle a simple rejection.
I was
falling apart, unraveling,
and there was nothing
I could do to stop it.
I had to make a virtual escape.
At the height of my despair
over a boy,
I had strangely found solace
in the arms of a man--
Russell Jonathan.
His tale
of self-destruction
followed by eventual
self-redemption
was like food for my soul.
It was as if he was speaking
directly to me about me,
and all I wanted to do
was crawl back
into the comfort of his words.
So I did,
because the book had become
my new obsession...
and distraction.
I was reading it over,
and over, and over again,
using it as my excuse
to excuse myself from life.
It had become
my security blanket,
and I didn't want to leave
the safety of its pages.
Earth to Jenna.
You there?
- Hey, I was reading that.
- Uh, we know.
But when are you gonna be done?
I don't know.
Let's find out.
How about engaging in life
for a minute?
Converse with your parents,
call your friends,
or hell, at least read
another book
by the same guy.
Oh, my God.
Genius.
That thought
hadn't even crossed my mind.
No good deed goes unpunished.
The idea
that my new love affair
with Russell Jonathan
could continue
to grow and evolve
was beyond comprehension.
Not only was I on a quest
to find out more
about his work,
I suddenly needed to know
everything about the man,
the man who was changing my life
word by word,
the man who just totally
and completely
spoke to my heart,
the man who was maybe
my soul mate
and who was--
Mr. Hart?
I had been rocked.
The world as I knew it
was suddenly
very unsettled and confused.
Matty was taking Bailey
to prom,
and I was possibly
having feelings
for my newfound literary hero,
Russell Jonathan,
AKA Mr. Hart.
Could it be
that Hart's disgusting
and disgruntled demeanor
was just a facade
hiding a uniquely
beautiful man?
Or was he just the most
brilliant writer
I had ever read?
Either way, I felt bamboozled.
All right.
You lucky
remaining half-wits,
we're gonna learn something
today called a "Callback."
It's your last assignment
of the year.
Does anybody know what that is?
Anyone?
Okay, let me give you a clue.
What did I ask you
on the first day of class?
Peep show.
You asked us
to give you permission
to torture us.
Yes.
Yes, I did.
And have you been tortured?
I've been standing in the hall
every day
for the last two months.
You see?
I was true to my word.
And my only hope
is that one day,
you'll all remember
to be true to yours.
But that wasn't the question.
- Anyone else?
- You asked if we were morons.
I did, and you are,
but that's not it.
What about the time you asked
if we were inbred?
No, that was just for you.
Seriously, guys.
It's not that hard.
Mr. Jennings,
no insightful retort?
No.
I have it.
You asked who we want to be.
And bingo was
his name-o.
Very good, so now,
it's time for all of you
to reflect on the past year
and write me an opus
about who you want to be.
[Sighs]
Due tomorrow.
[Bell rings]
Tomorrow.
Hey, uh, Hamilton.
Not so fast.
What was that sigh about?
I-I didn't sigh.
Oh, you did.
Okay, fine.
I sighed because I don't know
who I want to be,
let alone who I am.
But I do know
who you are, Russ.
I had stoked the fire
and let Mr. Hart know
what I knew.
But what I still
didn't know was
if I was infatuated with him.
I am struggling with
some strange romantic feelings.
Mm.
Unrequited love.
I don't know
if I would call it "love."
The feelings are
potentially irrational
and reactionary
towards feeling lonely,
not to mention
the age difference
is totally sketch.
I'm pretty sure I know
who you're talking about.
It's not that big
of an age difference.
Are you kidding?
It's massive.
Well, I guess
if we're counting in cat years.
Did I mention that a union
would be illegal?
- And gross?
- In what state?
- Maybe Delaware.
- What is wrong with me?
It's not like
I actually believe
that I'm in love with him
or anything.
Inspired, sure.
But is it possible
to love someone
who enjoys humiliating you?
I'm not so sure he enjoys it,
and remember
it takes two to tango.
What?
I-I've never humiliated him.
We could debate the details
all day,
but the truth is
you seem really pained
by this whole situation,
and frankly, I get it,
with everyone talking about it
and all.
Eh-- everyone knows?
I haven't told a soul.
- Well, your mom told me.
- My mom knows?
Yeah, and then I told some kids
who may or may not have
blabber of the mouth.
But come on,
did you really think
he was gonna ask you to prom
after everything that happened?
Why would Mr. Hart
ask me to prom?
Mr. Hart?
Ugh.
No.
I'm not talking about
that old perv.
He's not even allowed
at the prom.
It's too much cleavage.
Uh, then who are
you talking about?
Matty.
I heard he dissed you.
Everyone's talking about that?
Psh.
No.
Not everyone.
Mary at the front desk
didn't know
until I told her.
Do you want my advice?
Reinvent yourself
before you're the butt
of everyone's joke.
Seemed like Val had gone back
to the crack pipe.
There was no way I was the butt
of everyone's joke.
No one cared what happened
with me and Matty.
Finally, Jenna got
a wake-up call.
She's not all that.
Matty definitely traded up.
Bailey Parker's the new
and improved version of Jenna.
Yeah, what did Jenna expect
after being so selfish
and insensitive?
Karma's a bitch.
Karma had been a bitch,
and so had I,
which meant there was no room
for a pity committee.
I deserved the bum rap
and the pain
that came along with it.
[Knocks at door]
Jenna?
- Yeah?
- Why are you holing up in here?
Just feels more comfortable
in the toilets
since I feel like shit.
The rumor's not that bad.
I mean, no one really cares.
[Toilet flushes]
OMG, they do.
Everyone's been rooting
for Jenna to FOHF.
- FOHF?
- Fall on her face.
Eh, good try, but no.
Don't listen to her.
She is old and out of touch.
- No, I'm out of touch.
- It's my fault.
I had the wrong intel
on the prom ask.
When Jake said Matty was
about to ask someone,
I just assumed it was you.
I'm the one
who got your hopes up.
Not if I was already living
in la-la land.
I've been in denial.
Please come out.
I promise no one will mention
prom at our lunch table.
Prom, I don't know
what I'm gonna do about it.
Sorry, forgot
to give her the memo.
It's okay.
So what's the deal?
Sex, it's as if
it's in the fine print
of every prom ticket,
but I'm not ready.
- Easy, use a sexcuse.
- Sexcuse?
- Sex excuse.
- For example?
- You're tired.
- Sweaty.
- Hairy.
- Which means scary.
Or just go
with the irrefutable.
Something commonly practiced
from the beginning of time.
- Which is?
Both: - You have your period.
Oh, man.
Sucks to be you.
So anyway, Jenna,
are you coming with us?
- Alone?
- Sure.
We took Tamara for the formal
last year.
Why can't we take you
this year?
That's a great idea.
And really nice,
but I don't wanna be in the way
or make things uncomfortable
with Matty and Bailey.
You won't.
They're not even going.
I think he changed his mind.
And I had changed my attitude.
Hope was alive, and well,
and still on the premises.
[Bell rings]
With Matty plus none
for the dance,
I had to find a way
to become his plus one.
But I needed more intel
on his state of mind,
and to get it,
I needed reinforcements.
That sounds complicated.
It's not complicated
because the only guy for me
is JC,
and I only see him at church.
And there's no way
he's going to prom,
so you, Austin, and I
should all go together.
What are we gonna do,
be a three-way freak show
where you hold my hips
as I slow dance with Austin?
[Gasps]
Oh, that sounds fun.
- [Giggles]
- No, it doesn't.
You're giving me anxiety
which I don't need
because I've gained
three pounds,
and I promised Austin
I wouldn't
scarf and barf anymore.
- He knows?
- Yes, he knows everything.
His lack of a social filter
also comes
with a lack of judgment.
He just likes me for me.
And now, I've moved
into a sphere
beyond like for him.
Liss, I think I'm in love.
- No.
- Yes.
No, really,
now you're freaking me out.
- Why?
- Because you're you.
- And you are not a lover.
- Yes, I am.
- No, you're not.
- Stop saying that.
- You stop saying it.
- I love Austin.
And I am freaking out.
I even have butterflies.
And I hate butterflies.
And if you tell anyone I'm
having this soft side moment,
I swear I will cut you.
[Sighs]
You're back.
Thank goodness.
I was starting to worry.
Ah.
What's with the sneak attack?
- Oh, no one's sneaking.
- Or attacking.
- But we have some questions.
- Okay.
We suspect you've withheld
some pertinent information
about Matty and Bailey.
Babe, I just found out
earlier in the day,
so now you know
all that I know.
So you don't need to wig out.
We're not wigging,
but rather wondering
if Matty's reason
for changing his mind
had anything to do
with another girl.
- i.e. Jenna.
- I don't know.
- You know.
- No, I don't.
Then, I do.
Jenna, it's clear.
Matty never wanted
to ask Bailey.
He was just trying to suss out
how you felt
and see if you still cared.
He was completely angling
to get a rise out of you.
He was waiting for you
to contest
so he could
spring the ask on you.
But you didn't contest,
so he didn't ask.
- Following?
- Yeah.
No.
It's girl world, babe.
Just tune out until I'm done.
So the whole thing was a ruse.
He's waiting for you
to say something.
And now's your shot.
Say something and get that ask.
You think that's a good idea?
- No.
- Yes.
In boy world,
we don't think that hard.
- Yeah, you do.
- [Scoffs]
Matty is the quiet,
contemplative type,
and I feel extremely confident
he's waiting for an opening
to ask you
and just you, so go.
Get that ask.
What?
Why do you always have
to steamroll me?
I didn't mean to.
I'm sorry.
You always have to be
in control of everything.
- No, I don't.
- Yeah, you do.
Try me.
Fine.
I'm gonna wear
a colored tux to prom.
[Sighs]
Great.
What color?
It's a surprise.
- Can't wait to see it.
- Ah.
Mm-hmm.
If Tamara's reasoning
was correct,
Matty was waiting
for an opening from me,
which meant I had to do my best
to give him one
and be as subtle
as possible about it.
Matty.
Hey.
I need a date to prom.
Any ideas?
So subtlety wasn't
my strong suit.
I will have to think it over.
He was playing hard to get.
Okay, well, how about thinking
about someone you'd wanna share
a limo with
so we can ride together?
- I'm not going.
- Oh, no.
Why?
Don't you want to go?
I did, but not anymore.
How come?
Bailey said "No."
And honestly, there's
no one else I wanna ask.
But I will put
my thinking cap on for you,
and we'll find you a date.
So there would be no date,
no dance,
just devastation.
I had to write my last paper,
but all I wanted to do
was hole up and hide.
I couldn't write about
who I wanted to be
when I felt so far away
from who I was,
who I used to be.
That girl who used
to be selfless
had become selfish, and in turn
was all alone
without a prom date,
a perfect boyfriend,
or a great new friend,
a friend
that I had overtly avoided
and ignored
for the last few days,
assuming she was
Matty's new girl.
I suddenly had
two assignments--
to say something on the page
and to Bailey in person.
But I didn't know how
or where to begin,
and I was getting sick
of whining about it.
So I was left with only
one last resort--
procrastination.
- Stop making excuses.
- About what?
About what you wanna do
after the prom.
I sense you're nervous,
and I think I know why.
- I'm not nervous.
- You can't lie to me.
Listen, I know
what you're thinking,
and I just want you
to be comfortable.
- Really?
- Yeah.
And the night comes
with a lot of pressure,
and you don't have
to do anything
that compromises who you are.
Really?
Because I was getting worried.
- Don't be.
- [Giggles]
I'm totally cool
with you wearing a pantsuit.
Oh, go--od.
Yeah, you totally don't need
to sweat it.
I'm man enough
to feel like a man
next to my woman in pants.
Okay.
We're gonna have a great time,
especially once we get back
to our hotel room.
Bailey.
- Hey. I'm sorry.
- I'm sorry.
Why are you sorry?
I thought you would never
talk to me again.
After I heard all those rumors
about you, and Matty, and me,
I was devastated.
I just want you to know
that after Matty asked me
to the prom,
I called you to make sure
you heard it from me first.
- I already knew.
- You knew?
Matty told me, and I just
assumed you said "Yes,"
which is why
I avoided your calls.
I was a lame friend
for not giving you
the benefit of the doubt.
No, I was the lame friend
who apparently gave
the wrong signal
to your ex-boyfriend.
But I said "No" right away.
There was never even a moment
where I offered to go.
- So you don't like Matty?
- I do.
He's a great guy, but...
[Sniffles]
Jenna, you are my only friend.
And I would never, ever
do anything to hurt you.
So you turned him down
to not hurt me?
Of course.
I had been
in my own personal hell
for so long
that I had stopped believing
in random acts of kindness.
And there,
right in front of me,
was the greatest act
of kindness
I had seen in a long time.
And thus, I was inspired
to return the favor.
- Do me a solid.
- Sure.
Dry your eyes and stay here.
Eh-- mm, hm.
Three people
didn't have to forgo the prom
if one person
could just get out of the way.
So here's the deal.
Bailey said "No"
to avoid hurting me.
What she doesn't know
is that you asked my permission,
and I was cool with it
because I am cool.
I really want you guys
to go together.
Bailey, will you go with Matty?
- This is weird.
- Agreed.
Again, my fault.
I'm making it weird.
But it doesn't have to be
if you guys just go together.
- I don't know.
- I don't know.
I can easily
make this weird all day,
or you can end the pain
and just go to prom together.
I'm in if you're in.
I'm cool with it.
I swear.
She's in.
I'm in.
Thank you for asking.
Both of you.
Now, go.
You guys have plans to make.
[Slow clapping]
Bravo.
That was one
stellar performance.
And I've gotta hand it to you,
you pulled it off
with complete sincerity.
I was sincere.
Don't even try to bullshit
a bullshitter.
Go ahead.
Slaughter me.
I don't need to.
You just slaughtered yourself.
And it was excruciating...
...ly awesome to watch,
which is why I bet
hart's last assignment
was easy for you to write.
It appears who you wanna be
is already
who you are-- pathetic.
You're welcome.
Ha.
That paper wasn't easy
to write.
Because there was no paper.
[Bell rings]
Okay, time's up.
Turn in those disastrous
diatribes, please.
Thanks for the assignment.
[Sighs]
I feel like I got out
some demons.
Somehow, I find that hard
to believe.
- So she speaks.
- I do.
Have you finally gotten past
your hatred of me?
I don't hate you, Collin.
And believe me, I've tried.
But the truth is
I can't hate someone
I don't care about.
Well, that was rather dramatic.
Sorry.
It was a waste of your time.
It was garbage, phoned in,
and written last-minute.
I have eyes,
I saw you scribble that thing
like it was the Grand Prix
of writing over the last hour.
- Just give me a zero.
- No.
- I can't write the assignment.
- That's not acceptable.
Well, you're just gonna
have to accept it.
Ms. Hamilton, sometimes,
you don't get to call the shots.
I am not a brilliant writer
like you.
I can't just write poetry
in a vacuum.
I never said
I wanted poetry in a vacuum.
I merely asked you to answer
a simple question
that I know you can.
I can't
because I don't know
who I want to be.
I ruined my life,
alienated the people in it,
and now I am...
Lost?
Let me tell you a story.
So there was this guy.
He was maybe a few years older
than you.
He thought he was a tough guy.
Thought he knew it all.
So he sat down
and wrote a story,
a killer story,
and the whole
literary world agreed--
this guy knew it all.
They even called him
the New Salinger.
So he bought the BS.
And then, he started to piss off
everybody that he cared about.
He was the writer
of his own ruin
because he thought
he could do no wrong
until he wrote
his second novel.
And then, he was torn apart,
lambasted as
a one-hit wonder.
[Laughs]
Some critics even questioned
if the same guy
wrote both books.
So you know what he did?
- What?
- He quit.
He gave up
because despite knowing it all,
he wasn't a tough guy.
He even changed his name
after he let the critics
destroy him.
And the day he decided
to take his head out of his ass,
he did the best thing he could.
- Became a teacher.
- Yes.
Because he wanted to teach kids
with talent
how to face criticism
and discover that success
isn't about winning.
It's about staying in the game,
not quitting,
or letting someone
make you quit.
Does that make sense?
- So you're not a dick?
- No, I'm a dick.
But I'm a dick who has a method
to his madness.
And I want you to realize
that all the hardship
and all the criticism
that you face
is making you a better writer
and a better person.
So don't quit now
before you learn
that no matter what you do
or where you go,
you can't escape yourself.
Turns out I was feeling
something for Mr. Hart.
But it wasn't love.
It was respect.
Now take the weekend,
but turn that paper in.
Damn, tuxes are a pretty penny.
[Sighs]
How 'bout renting two?
I can't believe the guy
wouldn't let me
exchange the black one
for my Tamara surprise.
Well, now, you can make
the mid-prom wardrobe change
you've always dreamed of.
A-ha, ha.
Oh, how you know me.
You really think that joke
is worth it?
It's not a joke.
It's a lesson.
Tamara needs to learn that
she can't control everything.
Starting with you
in a clown suit.
Damn straight.
So Bailey.
Is this just a date?
Or is she girlfriend material?
Mm.
Too early to tell.
But there's something
really cool about her.
She's just less insecure
than other girls, you know?
And for whatever reason,
makes me nervous.
[Laughs]
So you've been doing
a lot of pit sniffing?
Maybe.
[Both laugh]
She's the first girl
I've hung out with
who doesn't make me miss Jenna.
- Shit.
- What?
Jenna asked me
to help her get a date,
and I totally spaced.
Nah, don't sweat it.
It was a ploy.
Jenna was trying to get you
to ask her.
She wanted to go with you.
It was
a last-ditch effort.
We just figured
if we got you a ticket,
you'd come with us tonight.
And wear what?
A dress cut in half?
Or something
in your mom's closet.
Nothing in my mom's closet
is appropriate.
Besides, I have to finish
my paper this weekend,
and I haven't even started.
You can do that tomorrow,
but tonight,
you are gonna borrow
the perfect dress
that I can't wear
and isn't returnable,
'cause I had to buy
a black sack,
'cause I have no idea
what color Jake is wearing
and I don't wanna clash.
Although I guess black
is appropriate,
seeing as I'm already
mourning the loss
of my magic night.
Don't say "Magic night."
It's a cliche.
I mean, explain to me
why sex is considered magic.
And why does everyone have
to have it after prom?
Why can't we just play
fucking mah-jongg instead?
Easy, girl.
You're at an 11.
[Sighs]
You're right.
I need to take it back
to a six,
especially since I have
a foolproof plan
to avoid Operation Panty Drop.
Explain.
I told Fred
that part of the deal
of going to prom meant having
dinner with my parents first.
And once they confirm
that he has a penis--
'cause he's a boy--
I'm gonna get an--
- Early curfew.
- Early curfew.
Foolproof.
[Sighs]
[Laughs]
Everything's so delicious
and healthy.
Do you steam
everything you eat?
Steam is good for body.
Is that why you have such
a lovely figure?
Are you checking out my mom?
What?
No.
Not that you don't have
a lovely one.
But that would
be inappropriate.
And yet, you did it.
You know what's awesome
about Fred?
Oh, finally.
He's not a conformist.
He's an Asian kid
who doesn't play an instrument,
doesn't get particularly
good grades,
and he might wanna go
to art school.
[Laughs]
It's-- it's-- it's--
that is if business school
doesn't work out.
I'm gonna pass out.
That's a good sign.
That means
you're getting dehydrated,
and your organs are starting
to shrivel up.
- Is that dangerous?
- Absolutely.
But your stomach
will be flat...er.
Anyway, you're almost there,
and in 20 more minutes,
you'll finally look good
in that dress.
- 20 more minutes?
- Suck it up.
- Big girls don't cry.
- Whore.
Bitch.
I'm nervous about tonight.
- I think I'm in love.
- [Sighs]
Shit.
Is it time for the talk?
I'm squared away
on the birds and the bees.
- Thank you.
- Well, I'd hope so.
But I was talking
about orgasms.
Do you know how to get one?
I'm not discussing this
with you.
I am just trying
to give you some pointers
on how to avoid
first-time pain.
Although, since you're
of the big-boned variety,
you're probably big
downstairs too.
Jesus.
Let me-- let me just show you
one technique.
Please don't.
I'm not gonna take out
my hoo-ha.
I'm just gonna show you
a little trick you can do
even with your clothes on.
But you gotta stretch first.
You know, warm up.
Stop, now I want to pass out
and throw up.
You're not gonna pass out.
So stop you're bitchin',
and watch me work.
[Pants]
♪ Wow ♪
I'm really not feeling good.
I'm light-headed.
I'm woozy.
Shut it, no one
passes out in a--
_
Nothing was coming to me.
I was stuck and seeking
any and all inspiration.
[Soft music]
♪
I have a surprise.
- You fixed my dress?
- Me? God no.
But my tailor did,
and you would never know
it wasn't always in one piece.
You can still go to prom
if you want.
- Alone?
- Why not?
Come on, you never would've
gone alone.
No, but I wasn't nearly
as brave as you are.
I'm not brave.
Besides, I really need
to finish this paper.
♪
Is that the letter?
Yeah.
Can I see it?
[Soft music]
♪
This feels like a lifetime ago.
It was.
God, what was I thinking?
[Sighs]
Can you imagine
what would've happened
if you hadn't forgiven me?
If I had never known
what it was like to have this?
This moment, this gift
of being so close to you.
[Sniffles]
[Sighs]
I'm so sorry I ever wrote it.
- It came from a good place.
- No.
It was cruel.
[Sighs]
Did I become this person?
Oh, babe.
I dropped my friends,
second-guessed
my instincts.
And worst of all,
I was cruel.
So, so cruel.
And young.
You are not this person.
You realized your mistakes,
you took ownership of them,
you made amends.
Honey, without the bad days,
we can never appreciate
the good ones.
And there are so many good days
coming your way.
[Sighs]
Just do me a favor.
What?
Forgive yourself
like you forgave me.
[Soft music]
♪
Stop being a pussy.
♪
And that's why Fred can never
go to Ventura County again.
[Sighs]
Ming, I dropped my napkin.
Can you help me?
And he can't even pick up
a napkin.
I can.
But it seems like
you're stepping on it.
Help me.
[Groans]
What the hell are you doing?
I'm just trying to help
my parents get to know you.
And hate me.
What are you gonna
tell them next?
- That I'm a cutter?
- Are you?
Ming Ming.
[Clears throat]
Shouldn't you be leaving?
Yes.
What time do you want me home?
Whenever.
No curfew.
What?
Why?
It's prom.
Mr. Hart,
attached is my paper.
I took your words of wisdom
to heart.
I'm not going to run
from my critics
because I'm not a pussy.
[Upbeat rock]
♪ ♪
[Upbeat music]
♪
[Overlapping chatter]
- Are you nervous?
- No.
But you're exhibiting
the physical,
stress-induced habits
that are typically associated
with nerves.
- Like what?
- Restless hands.
Restless feet.
Tense face.
- I don't have tense face.
- Objectively, you do.
Objectively, you don't
know everything.
That would be
a correct statement.
But in this case,
I know nerves,
and I know you.
Well, if you know me,
then why am I nervous?
May I touch you?
Okay.
The rhythms of your heart
are fast and furious,
proving my first assumption
was correct.
And what assumption was that?
The assumption that you love me
and you're afraid to say it.
- Not true.
- That wasn't a question.
- It was a statement.
- So what?
Are you gonna leave now?
- No.
- Why not?
Because then you wouldn't know
that I love you back.
You do?
Isn't it obvious?
No.
Can I kiss you now?
Yes.
[Upbeat music]
♪
Sadie.
What are you doing here?
Did JC finally leave
the church?
As a matter of fact, he did.
Hey, I'm Jack Carter,
but my friends
call me "JC."
[Upbeat music]
♪
Are you ready for a cherry pop?
No.
I'm not.
I wanna go home
along with my cherry
that you wanna pop.
Cherry soda.
In Idaho,
we called it "Pop."
Look, I'm just no ready
to bump and grind,
and I'm done making excuses
because I don't--
Hush.
[Sighs]
We don't have to have sex.
But it's prom,
and you have a hotel room.
Which I got
so we can stay up all night
and watch pay-per-view.
That's it?
Hopefully, we can make out
a little,
or a lot.
I can handle that.
[Sighs]
Babe, you've gotta keep
the animal
to a minimum
on the dance floor.
I'm gonna pass out.
Well, not before I eat you up.
I love what this jacket
brings out in you.
[Laughs]
Well see, sometimes,
you gotta let
the wild thing out.
[Laughter]
He might surprise you.
[Both laugh]
Ah, the old sniff of the pit.
What does that mean?
It means I need to get us
some drinks.
[Clears throat]
♪
And the loser goes stag.
Surprised you couldn't find
a date.
Cheating, lying skitches
are usually in hot demand.
Weird.
Making fun of you has lost
its luster
'cause now anything awful
I could say about you is true.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
Hey.
I'm so glad you're here.
- Having a good time?
- Yeah, even better now.
Well, I'm on the fence
about staying,
but I'm giving myself
20 minutes.
Well, if it isn't the two most
beautiful girls in the room.
Uh, drink?
No, thank you.
[Down-tempo rock]
♪ ♪
Hey, how 'bout you guys
have this dance?
No, I am just here to hang,
not to intrude.
Nah, you wouldn't be.
Come.
Just one song.
[Soft rock music]
♪
You don't have to do this.
I know I don't have to,
but I want to.
Your dress looks better
without the hoodie.
- Caught.
- [Chuckles]
I bought it stupidly thinking
you were going
to ask me to prom.
And why is that stupid?
Because you didn't.
I didn't know
we were still open.
And I didn't know
we were closed.
- I feel awful, but I--
- Don't.
Don't say it.
I want you to know
that when I hurt you,
I didn't understand
what I was doing.
But I do now.
I didn't love myself enough
to let you love me.
♪
Thanks for the dance.
The pleasure was all mine.
Now, get back to your date.
Will do.
[Upbeat folk]
♪ ♪
I had been struggling to think
of what to say,
so I stopped thinking.
I was convinced I didn't know
who I wanted to be.
And then, I realized
the answer was all around me.
I wanna be someone
who is willing to forgive.
I wanna be someone
that cares more
about others than themselves.
I wanna be someone
who can tell it like it is.
I wanna be someone
who would give up everything
for the right reason.
I wanna be someone who sees
the best in everyone.
I wanna be someone
who is a true friend.
♪
I wanna be someone
who always tries
to be a better person,
and someone who learns
from their mistakes.
I guess I just wanna be someone
who encompasses
all those things
so I can finally be
that girl who doesn't need
a boy to be happy
because I'll know how to dance
all on my own.
This book had a huge impact
on my journey as a writer.
Maybe it can do the same
for you.
Matty, this is
my friend Bailey.
Thank you for coming.
- Prom.
- Prom.
I just wanted to make sure
that you were cool
with me asking Bailey.
So you want
to take Bailey to prom.
Is that okay?
It's awesome.
Fantastic.
She's fantastic.
You're fantastic.
It's-- it's fantastic.
- She's gonna be stoked.
- You think so?
Why wouldn't she?
You're Matty McKibben.
And I was Jenna Hamilton,
the idiot who finally knew
she had permanently messed up
the best relationship
she'd ever have.
[Door closes]
[Laughs]
What did he say?
How did he ask?
He's taking someone else.
Oh.
Sweetie.
Can I just be alone?
Of course.
[Sighs]
I was a fool to think
all the bad
I had put into the universe
could so easily be forgotten.
Matty's rebound with Devon
had paved the way
for the real deal.
And the real deal was
not going to be me.
It was going to be Bailey.
[Soft music]
♪
I naively thought
I was finally back
on solid ground,
but the sad truth
revealed that my foundation
was too weak
to handle a simple rejection.
I was
falling apart, unraveling,
and there was nothing
I could do to stop it.
I had to make a virtual escape.
At the height of my despair
over a boy,
I had strangely found solace
in the arms of a man--
Russell Jonathan.
His tale
of self-destruction
followed by eventual
self-redemption
was like food for my soul.
It was as if he was speaking
directly to me about me,
and all I wanted to do
was crawl back
into the comfort of his words.
So I did,
because the book had become
my new obsession...
and distraction.
I was reading it over,
and over, and over again,
using it as my excuse
to excuse myself from life.
It had become
my security blanket,
and I didn't want to leave
the safety of its pages.
Earth to Jenna.
You there?
- Hey, I was reading that.
- Uh, we know.
But when are you gonna be done?
I don't know.
Let's find out.
How about engaging in life
for a minute?
Converse with your parents,
call your friends,
or hell, at least read
another book
by the same guy.
Oh, my God.
Genius.
That thought
hadn't even crossed my mind.
No good deed goes unpunished.
The idea
that my new love affair
with Russell Jonathan
could continue
to grow and evolve
was beyond comprehension.
Not only was I on a quest
to find out more
about his work,
I suddenly needed to know
everything about the man,
the man who was changing my life
word by word,
the man who just totally
and completely
spoke to my heart,
the man who was maybe
my soul mate
and who was--
Mr. Hart?
I had been rocked.
The world as I knew it
was suddenly
very unsettled and confused.
Matty was taking Bailey
to prom,
and I was possibly
having feelings
for my newfound literary hero,
Russell Jonathan,
AKA Mr. Hart.
Could it be
that Hart's disgusting
and disgruntled demeanor
was just a facade
hiding a uniquely
beautiful man?
Or was he just the most
brilliant writer
I had ever read?
Either way, I felt bamboozled.
All right.
You lucky
remaining half-wits,
we're gonna learn something
today called a "Callback."
It's your last assignment
of the year.
Does anybody know what that is?
Anyone?
Okay, let me give you a clue.
What did I ask you
on the first day of class?
Peep show.
You asked us
to give you permission
to torture us.
Yes.
Yes, I did.
And have you been tortured?
I've been standing in the hall
every day
for the last two months.
You see?
I was true to my word.
And my only hope
is that one day,
you'll all remember
to be true to yours.
But that wasn't the question.
- Anyone else?
- You asked if we were morons.
I did, and you are,
but that's not it.
What about the time you asked
if we were inbred?
No, that was just for you.
Seriously, guys.
It's not that hard.
Mr. Jennings,
no insightful retort?
No.
I have it.
You asked who we want to be.
And bingo was
his name-o.
Very good, so now,
it's time for all of you
to reflect on the past year
and write me an opus
about who you want to be.
[Sighs]
Due tomorrow.
[Bell rings]
Tomorrow.
Hey, uh, Hamilton.
Not so fast.
What was that sigh about?
I-I didn't sigh.
Oh, you did.
Okay, fine.
I sighed because I don't know
who I want to be,
let alone who I am.
But I do know
who you are, Russ.
I had stoked the fire
and let Mr. Hart know
what I knew.
But what I still
didn't know was
if I was infatuated with him.
I am struggling with
some strange romantic feelings.
Mm.
Unrequited love.
I don't know
if I would call it "love."
The feelings are
potentially irrational
and reactionary
towards feeling lonely,
not to mention
the age difference
is totally sketch.
I'm pretty sure I know
who you're talking about.
It's not that big
of an age difference.
Are you kidding?
It's massive.
Well, I guess
if we're counting in cat years.
Did I mention that a union
would be illegal?
- And gross?
- In what state?
- Maybe Delaware.
- What is wrong with me?
It's not like
I actually believe
that I'm in love with him
or anything.
Inspired, sure.
But is it possible
to love someone
who enjoys humiliating you?
I'm not so sure he enjoys it,
and remember
it takes two to tango.
What?
I-I've never humiliated him.
We could debate the details
all day,
but the truth is
you seem really pained
by this whole situation,
and frankly, I get it,
with everyone talking about it
and all.
Eh-- everyone knows?
I haven't told a soul.
- Well, your mom told me.
- My mom knows?
Yeah, and then I told some kids
who may or may not have
blabber of the mouth.
But come on,
did you really think
he was gonna ask you to prom
after everything that happened?
Why would Mr. Hart
ask me to prom?
Mr. Hart?
Ugh.
No.
I'm not talking about
that old perv.
He's not even allowed
at the prom.
It's too much cleavage.
Uh, then who are
you talking about?
Matty.
I heard he dissed you.
Everyone's talking about that?
Psh.
No.
Not everyone.
Mary at the front desk
didn't know
until I told her.
Do you want my advice?
Reinvent yourself
before you're the butt
of everyone's joke.
Seemed like Val had gone back
to the crack pipe.
There was no way I was the butt
of everyone's joke.
No one cared what happened
with me and Matty.
Finally, Jenna got
a wake-up call.
She's not all that.
Matty definitely traded up.
Bailey Parker's the new
and improved version of Jenna.
Yeah, what did Jenna expect
after being so selfish
and insensitive?
Karma's a bitch.
Karma had been a bitch,
and so had I,
which meant there was no room
for a pity committee.
I deserved the bum rap
and the pain
that came along with it.
[Knocks at door]
Jenna?
- Yeah?
- Why are you holing up in here?
Just feels more comfortable
in the toilets
since I feel like shit.
The rumor's not that bad.
I mean, no one really cares.
[Toilet flushes]
OMG, they do.
Everyone's been rooting
for Jenna to FOHF.
- FOHF?
- Fall on her face.
Eh, good try, but no.
Don't listen to her.
She is old and out of touch.
- No, I'm out of touch.
- It's my fault.
I had the wrong intel
on the prom ask.
When Jake said Matty was
about to ask someone,
I just assumed it was you.
I'm the one
who got your hopes up.
Not if I was already living
in la-la land.
I've been in denial.
Please come out.
I promise no one will mention
prom at our lunch table.
Prom, I don't know
what I'm gonna do about it.
Sorry, forgot
to give her the memo.
It's okay.
So what's the deal?
Sex, it's as if
it's in the fine print
of every prom ticket,
but I'm not ready.
- Easy, use a sexcuse.
- Sexcuse?
- Sex excuse.
- For example?
- You're tired.
- Sweaty.
- Hairy.
- Which means scary.
Or just go
with the irrefutable.
Something commonly practiced
from the beginning of time.
- Which is?
Both: - You have your period.
Oh, man.
Sucks to be you.
So anyway, Jenna,
are you coming with us?
- Alone?
- Sure.
We took Tamara for the formal
last year.
Why can't we take you
this year?
That's a great idea.
And really nice,
but I don't wanna be in the way
or make things uncomfortable
with Matty and Bailey.
You won't.
They're not even going.
I think he changed his mind.
And I had changed my attitude.
Hope was alive, and well,
and still on the premises.
[Bell rings]
With Matty plus none
for the dance,
I had to find a way
to become his plus one.
But I needed more intel
on his state of mind,
and to get it,
I needed reinforcements.
That sounds complicated.
It's not complicated
because the only guy for me
is JC,
and I only see him at church.
And there's no way
he's going to prom,
so you, Austin, and I
should all go together.
What are we gonna do,
be a three-way freak show
where you hold my hips
as I slow dance with Austin?
[Gasps]
Oh, that sounds fun.
- [Giggles]
- No, it doesn't.
You're giving me anxiety
which I don't need
because I've gained
three pounds,
and I promised Austin
I wouldn't
scarf and barf anymore.
- He knows?
- Yes, he knows everything.
His lack of a social filter
also comes
with a lack of judgment.
He just likes me for me.
And now, I've moved
into a sphere
beyond like for him.
Liss, I think I'm in love.
- No.
- Yes.
No, really,
now you're freaking me out.
- Why?
- Because you're you.
- And you are not a lover.
- Yes, I am.
- No, you're not.
- Stop saying that.
- You stop saying it.
- I love Austin.
And I am freaking out.
I even have butterflies.
And I hate butterflies.
And if you tell anyone I'm
having this soft side moment,
I swear I will cut you.
[Sighs]
You're back.
Thank goodness.
I was starting to worry.
Ah.
What's with the sneak attack?
- Oh, no one's sneaking.
- Or attacking.
- But we have some questions.
- Okay.
We suspect you've withheld
some pertinent information
about Matty and Bailey.
Babe, I just found out
earlier in the day,
so now you know
all that I know.
So you don't need to wig out.
We're not wigging,
but rather wondering
if Matty's reason
for changing his mind
had anything to do
with another girl.
- i.e. Jenna.
- I don't know.
- You know.
- No, I don't.
Then, I do.
Jenna, it's clear.
Matty never wanted
to ask Bailey.
He was just trying to suss out
how you felt
and see if you still cared.
He was completely angling
to get a rise out of you.
He was waiting for you
to contest
so he could
spring the ask on you.
But you didn't contest,
so he didn't ask.
- Following?
- Yeah.
No.
It's girl world, babe.
Just tune out until I'm done.
So the whole thing was a ruse.
He's waiting for you
to say something.
And now's your shot.
Say something and get that ask.
You think that's a good idea?
- No.
- Yes.
In boy world,
we don't think that hard.
- Yeah, you do.
- [Scoffs]
Matty is the quiet,
contemplative type,
and I feel extremely confident
he's waiting for an opening
to ask you
and just you, so go.
Get that ask.
What?
Why do you always have
to steamroll me?
I didn't mean to.
I'm sorry.
You always have to be
in control of everything.
- No, I don't.
- Yeah, you do.
Try me.
Fine.
I'm gonna wear
a colored tux to prom.
[Sighs]
Great.
What color?
It's a surprise.
- Can't wait to see it.
- Ah.
Mm-hmm.
If Tamara's reasoning
was correct,
Matty was waiting
for an opening from me,
which meant I had to do my best
to give him one
and be as subtle
as possible about it.
Matty.
Hey.
I need a date to prom.
Any ideas?
So subtlety wasn't
my strong suit.
I will have to think it over.
He was playing hard to get.
Okay, well, how about thinking
about someone you'd wanna share
a limo with
so we can ride together?
- I'm not going.
- Oh, no.
Why?
Don't you want to go?
I did, but not anymore.
How come?
Bailey said "No."
And honestly, there's
no one else I wanna ask.
But I will put
my thinking cap on for you,
and we'll find you a date.
So there would be no date,
no dance,
just devastation.
I had to write my last paper,
but all I wanted to do
was hole up and hide.
I couldn't write about
who I wanted to be
when I felt so far away
from who I was,
who I used to be.
That girl who used
to be selfless
had become selfish, and in turn
was all alone
without a prom date,
a perfect boyfriend,
or a great new friend,
a friend
that I had overtly avoided
and ignored
for the last few days,
assuming she was
Matty's new girl.
I suddenly had
two assignments--
to say something on the page
and to Bailey in person.
But I didn't know how
or where to begin,
and I was getting sick
of whining about it.
So I was left with only
one last resort--
procrastination.
- Stop making excuses.
- About what?
About what you wanna do
after the prom.
I sense you're nervous,
and I think I know why.
- I'm not nervous.
- You can't lie to me.
Listen, I know
what you're thinking,
and I just want you
to be comfortable.
- Really?
- Yeah.
And the night comes
with a lot of pressure,
and you don't have
to do anything
that compromises who you are.
Really?
Because I was getting worried.
- Don't be.
- [Giggles]
I'm totally cool
with you wearing a pantsuit.
Oh, go--od.
Yeah, you totally don't need
to sweat it.
I'm man enough
to feel like a man
next to my woman in pants.
Okay.
We're gonna have a great time,
especially once we get back
to our hotel room.
Bailey.
- Hey. I'm sorry.
- I'm sorry.
Why are you sorry?
I thought you would never
talk to me again.
After I heard all those rumors
about you, and Matty, and me,
I was devastated.
I just want you to know
that after Matty asked me
to the prom,
I called you to make sure
you heard it from me first.
- I already knew.
- You knew?
Matty told me, and I just
assumed you said "Yes,"
which is why
I avoided your calls.
I was a lame friend
for not giving you
the benefit of the doubt.
No, I was the lame friend
who apparently gave
the wrong signal
to your ex-boyfriend.
But I said "No" right away.
There was never even a moment
where I offered to go.
- So you don't like Matty?
- I do.
He's a great guy, but...
[Sniffles]
Jenna, you are my only friend.
And I would never, ever
do anything to hurt you.
So you turned him down
to not hurt me?
Of course.
I had been
in my own personal hell
for so long
that I had stopped believing
in random acts of kindness.
And there,
right in front of me,
was the greatest act
of kindness
I had seen in a long time.
And thus, I was inspired
to return the favor.
- Do me a solid.
- Sure.
Dry your eyes and stay here.
Eh-- mm, hm.
Three people
didn't have to forgo the prom
if one person
could just get out of the way.
So here's the deal.
Bailey said "No"
to avoid hurting me.
What she doesn't know
is that you asked my permission,
and I was cool with it
because I am cool.
I really want you guys
to go together.
Bailey, will you go with Matty?
- This is weird.
- Agreed.
Again, my fault.
I'm making it weird.
But it doesn't have to be
if you guys just go together.
- I don't know.
- I don't know.
I can easily
make this weird all day,
or you can end the pain
and just go to prom together.
I'm in if you're in.
I'm cool with it.
I swear.
She's in.
I'm in.
Thank you for asking.
Both of you.
Now, go.
You guys have plans to make.
[Slow clapping]
Bravo.
That was one
stellar performance.
And I've gotta hand it to you,
you pulled it off
with complete sincerity.
I was sincere.
Don't even try to bullshit
a bullshitter.
Go ahead.
Slaughter me.
I don't need to.
You just slaughtered yourself.
And it was excruciating...
...ly awesome to watch,
which is why I bet
hart's last assignment
was easy for you to write.
It appears who you wanna be
is already
who you are-- pathetic.
You're welcome.
Ha.
That paper wasn't easy
to write.
Because there was no paper.
[Bell rings]
Okay, time's up.
Turn in those disastrous
diatribes, please.
Thanks for the assignment.
[Sighs]
I feel like I got out
some demons.
Somehow, I find that hard
to believe.
- So she speaks.
- I do.
Have you finally gotten past
your hatred of me?
I don't hate you, Collin.
And believe me, I've tried.
But the truth is
I can't hate someone
I don't care about.
Well, that was rather dramatic.
Sorry.
It was a waste of your time.
It was garbage, phoned in,
and written last-minute.
I have eyes,
I saw you scribble that thing
like it was the Grand Prix
of writing over the last hour.
- Just give me a zero.
- No.
- I can't write the assignment.
- That's not acceptable.
Well, you're just gonna
have to accept it.
Ms. Hamilton, sometimes,
you don't get to call the shots.
I am not a brilliant writer
like you.
I can't just write poetry
in a vacuum.
I never said
I wanted poetry in a vacuum.
I merely asked you to answer
a simple question
that I know you can.
I can't
because I don't know
who I want to be.
I ruined my life,
alienated the people in it,
and now I am...
Lost?
Let me tell you a story.
So there was this guy.
He was maybe a few years older
than you.
He thought he was a tough guy.
Thought he knew it all.
So he sat down
and wrote a story,
a killer story,
and the whole
literary world agreed--
this guy knew it all.
They even called him
the New Salinger.
So he bought the BS.
And then, he started to piss off
everybody that he cared about.
He was the writer
of his own ruin
because he thought
he could do no wrong
until he wrote
his second novel.
And then, he was torn apart,
lambasted as
a one-hit wonder.
[Laughs]
Some critics even questioned
if the same guy
wrote both books.
So you know what he did?
- What?
- He quit.
He gave up
because despite knowing it all,
he wasn't a tough guy.
He even changed his name
after he let the critics
destroy him.
And the day he decided
to take his head out of his ass,
he did the best thing he could.
- Became a teacher.
- Yes.
Because he wanted to teach kids
with talent
how to face criticism
and discover that success
isn't about winning.
It's about staying in the game,
not quitting,
or letting someone
make you quit.
Does that make sense?
- So you're not a dick?
- No, I'm a dick.
But I'm a dick who has a method
to his madness.
And I want you to realize
that all the hardship
and all the criticism
that you face
is making you a better writer
and a better person.
So don't quit now
before you learn
that no matter what you do
or where you go,
you can't escape yourself.
Turns out I was feeling
something for Mr. Hart.
But it wasn't love.
It was respect.
Now take the weekend,
but turn that paper in.
Damn, tuxes are a pretty penny.
[Sighs]
How 'bout renting two?
I can't believe the guy
wouldn't let me
exchange the black one
for my Tamara surprise.
Well, now, you can make
the mid-prom wardrobe change
you've always dreamed of.
A-ha, ha.
Oh, how you know me.
You really think that joke
is worth it?
It's not a joke.
It's a lesson.
Tamara needs to learn that
she can't control everything.
Starting with you
in a clown suit.
Damn straight.
So Bailey.
Is this just a date?
Or is she girlfriend material?
Mm.
Too early to tell.
But there's something
really cool about her.
She's just less insecure
than other girls, you know?
And for whatever reason,
makes me nervous.
[Laughs]
So you've been doing
a lot of pit sniffing?
Maybe.
[Both laugh]
She's the first girl
I've hung out with
who doesn't make me miss Jenna.
- Shit.
- What?
Jenna asked me
to help her get a date,
and I totally spaced.
Nah, don't sweat it.
It was a ploy.
Jenna was trying to get you
to ask her.
She wanted to go with you.
It was
a last-ditch effort.
We just figured
if we got you a ticket,
you'd come with us tonight.
And wear what?
A dress cut in half?
Or something
in your mom's closet.
Nothing in my mom's closet
is appropriate.
Besides, I have to finish
my paper this weekend,
and I haven't even started.
You can do that tomorrow,
but tonight,
you are gonna borrow
the perfect dress
that I can't wear
and isn't returnable,
'cause I had to buy
a black sack,
'cause I have no idea
what color Jake is wearing
and I don't wanna clash.
Although I guess black
is appropriate,
seeing as I'm already
mourning the loss
of my magic night.
Don't say "Magic night."
It's a cliche.
I mean, explain to me
why sex is considered magic.
And why does everyone have
to have it after prom?
Why can't we just play
fucking mah-jongg instead?
Easy, girl.
You're at an 11.
[Sighs]
You're right.
I need to take it back
to a six,
especially since I have
a foolproof plan
to avoid Operation Panty Drop.
Explain.
I told Fred
that part of the deal
of going to prom meant having
dinner with my parents first.
And once they confirm
that he has a penis--
'cause he's a boy--
I'm gonna get an--
- Early curfew.
- Early curfew.
Foolproof.
[Sighs]
[Laughs]
Everything's so delicious
and healthy.
Do you steam
everything you eat?
Steam is good for body.
Is that why you have such
a lovely figure?
Are you checking out my mom?
What?
No.
Not that you don't have
a lovely one.
But that would
be inappropriate.
And yet, you did it.
You know what's awesome
about Fred?
Oh, finally.
He's not a conformist.
He's an Asian kid
who doesn't play an instrument,
doesn't get particularly
good grades,
and he might wanna go
to art school.
[Laughs]
It's-- it's-- it's--
that is if business school
doesn't work out.
I'm gonna pass out.
That's a good sign.
That means
you're getting dehydrated,
and your organs are starting
to shrivel up.
- Is that dangerous?
- Absolutely.
But your stomach
will be flat...er.
Anyway, you're almost there,
and in 20 more minutes,
you'll finally look good
in that dress.
- 20 more minutes?
- Suck it up.
- Big girls don't cry.
- Whore.
Bitch.
I'm nervous about tonight.
- I think I'm in love.
- [Sighs]
Shit.
Is it time for the talk?
I'm squared away
on the birds and the bees.
- Thank you.
- Well, I'd hope so.
But I was talking
about orgasms.
Do you know how to get one?
I'm not discussing this
with you.
I am just trying
to give you some pointers
on how to avoid
first-time pain.
Although, since you're
of the big-boned variety,
you're probably big
downstairs too.
Jesus.
Let me-- let me just show you
one technique.
Please don't.
I'm not gonna take out
my hoo-ha.
I'm just gonna show you
a little trick you can do
even with your clothes on.
But you gotta stretch first.
You know, warm up.
Stop, now I want to pass out
and throw up.
You're not gonna pass out.
So stop you're bitchin',
and watch me work.
[Pants]
♪ Wow ♪
I'm really not feeling good.
I'm light-headed.
I'm woozy.
Shut it, no one
passes out in a--
_
Nothing was coming to me.
I was stuck and seeking
any and all inspiration.
[Soft music]
♪
I have a surprise.
- You fixed my dress?
- Me? God no.
But my tailor did,
and you would never know
it wasn't always in one piece.
You can still go to prom
if you want.
- Alone?
- Why not?
Come on, you never would've
gone alone.
No, but I wasn't nearly
as brave as you are.
I'm not brave.
Besides, I really need
to finish this paper.
♪
Is that the letter?
Yeah.
Can I see it?
[Soft music]
♪
This feels like a lifetime ago.
It was.
God, what was I thinking?
[Sighs]
Can you imagine
what would've happened
if you hadn't forgiven me?
If I had never known
what it was like to have this?
This moment, this gift
of being so close to you.
[Sniffles]
[Sighs]
I'm so sorry I ever wrote it.
- It came from a good place.
- No.
It was cruel.
[Sighs]
Did I become this person?
Oh, babe.
I dropped my friends,
second-guessed
my instincts.
And worst of all,
I was cruel.
So, so cruel.
And young.
You are not this person.
You realized your mistakes,
you took ownership of them,
you made amends.
Honey, without the bad days,
we can never appreciate
the good ones.
And there are so many good days
coming your way.
[Sighs]
Just do me a favor.
What?
Forgive yourself
like you forgave me.
[Soft music]
♪
Stop being a pussy.
♪
And that's why Fred can never
go to Ventura County again.
[Sighs]
Ming, I dropped my napkin.
Can you help me?
And he can't even pick up
a napkin.
I can.
But it seems like
you're stepping on it.
Help me.
[Groans]
What the hell are you doing?
I'm just trying to help
my parents get to know you.
And hate me.
What are you gonna
tell them next?
- That I'm a cutter?
- Are you?
Ming Ming.
[Clears throat]
Shouldn't you be leaving?
Yes.
What time do you want me home?
Whenever.
No curfew.
What?
Why?
It's prom.
Mr. Hart,
attached is my paper.
I took your words of wisdom
to heart.
I'm not going to run
from my critics
because I'm not a pussy.
[Upbeat rock]
♪ ♪
[Upbeat music]
♪
[Overlapping chatter]
- Are you nervous?
- No.
But you're exhibiting
the physical,
stress-induced habits
that are typically associated
with nerves.
- Like what?
- Restless hands.
Restless feet.
Tense face.
- I don't have tense face.
- Objectively, you do.
Objectively, you don't
know everything.
That would be
a correct statement.
But in this case,
I know nerves,
and I know you.
Well, if you know me,
then why am I nervous?
May I touch you?
Okay.
The rhythms of your heart
are fast and furious,
proving my first assumption
was correct.
And what assumption was that?
The assumption that you love me
and you're afraid to say it.
- Not true.
- That wasn't a question.
- It was a statement.
- So what?
Are you gonna leave now?
- No.
- Why not?
Because then you wouldn't know
that I love you back.
You do?
Isn't it obvious?
No.
Can I kiss you now?
Yes.
[Upbeat music]
♪
Sadie.
What are you doing here?
Did JC finally leave
the church?
As a matter of fact, he did.
Hey, I'm Jack Carter,
but my friends
call me "JC."
[Upbeat music]
♪
Are you ready for a cherry pop?
No.
I'm not.
I wanna go home
along with my cherry
that you wanna pop.
Cherry soda.
In Idaho,
we called it "Pop."
Look, I'm just no ready
to bump and grind,
and I'm done making excuses
because I don't--
Hush.
[Sighs]
We don't have to have sex.
But it's prom,
and you have a hotel room.
Which I got
so we can stay up all night
and watch pay-per-view.
That's it?
Hopefully, we can make out
a little,
or a lot.
I can handle that.
[Sighs]
Babe, you've gotta keep
the animal
to a minimum
on the dance floor.
I'm gonna pass out.
Well, not before I eat you up.
I love what this jacket
brings out in you.
[Laughs]
Well see, sometimes,
you gotta let
the wild thing out.
[Laughter]
He might surprise you.
[Both laugh]
Ah, the old sniff of the pit.
What does that mean?
It means I need to get us
some drinks.
[Clears throat]
♪
And the loser goes stag.
Surprised you couldn't find
a date.
Cheating, lying skitches
are usually in hot demand.
Weird.
Making fun of you has lost
its luster
'cause now anything awful
I could say about you is true.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
Hey.
I'm so glad you're here.
- Having a good time?
- Yeah, even better now.
Well, I'm on the fence
about staying,
but I'm giving myself
20 minutes.
Well, if it isn't the two most
beautiful girls in the room.
Uh, drink?
No, thank you.
[Down-tempo rock]
♪ ♪
Hey, how 'bout you guys
have this dance?
No, I am just here to hang,
not to intrude.
Nah, you wouldn't be.
Come.
Just one song.
[Soft rock music]
♪
You don't have to do this.
I know I don't have to,
but I want to.
Your dress looks better
without the hoodie.
- Caught.
- [Chuckles]
I bought it stupidly thinking
you were going
to ask me to prom.
And why is that stupid?
Because you didn't.
I didn't know
we were still open.
And I didn't know
we were closed.
- I feel awful, but I--
- Don't.
Don't say it.
I want you to know
that when I hurt you,
I didn't understand
what I was doing.
But I do now.
I didn't love myself enough
to let you love me.
♪
Thanks for the dance.
The pleasure was all mine.
Now, get back to your date.
Will do.
[Upbeat folk]
♪ ♪
I had been struggling to think
of what to say,
so I stopped thinking.
I was convinced I didn't know
who I wanted to be.
And then, I realized
the answer was all around me.
I wanna be someone
who is willing to forgive.
I wanna be someone
that cares more
about others than themselves.
I wanna be someone
who can tell it like it is.
I wanna be someone
who would give up everything
for the right reason.
I wanna be someone who sees
the best in everyone.
I wanna be someone
who is a true friend.
♪
I wanna be someone
who always tries
to be a better person,
and someone who learns
from their mistakes.
I guess I just wanna be someone
who encompasses
all those things
so I can finally be
that girl who doesn't need
a boy to be happy
because I'll know how to dance
all on my own.