Inside Melody’s office. The girls are seated while Melody looks at the chart on the table in front of her. It is not possible to see whether the news is good or bad by looking at her expression.

MELODY: I have your results here, Bina. You are absolutely sure that all the information you gave me about your sexual activity is correct? You have not had any sexual activity in the last 3 months?

Bina nods. She is almost in tears again, shaking with worry. Melody smiles, gently. She pats Bina’s hand.

MELODY: It’s okay, the results were negative. That’s one less thing to worry about. I know you still have to go through the abortion procedure, but you should recover soon.

Bina collapses into Cynthia’s arms, and Cynthia hugs her tight. They are so relieved!

BINA: Thank you, thank you. I can’t believe it, thank you.

MELODY: You can wait in the other room again, but take these pamphlets, and this box of condoms—

Bina interrupts.

BINA: I don’t need them, I won’t be having sex for a long time.

Melody pushes the box into her hands, smiling.

MELODY: I don’t want you to be caught off-guard. Sex is not the problem, it’s doing it without taking care that I worry about. Rather safe than sorry, remember? Be proud of your body, take care of it, be good to it. Both of you.

Cynthia takes the box. Melody gives her a second one.

MELODY: Here’s one for you too.

CYNTHIA: Thank you.

MELODY: Good girl. Okay, go wait outside. You’re very strong, both of you! Girls like you give me hope. You’re taking responsibility now.

As they leave the office, Agnes approaches them.

AGNES: I’m sorry. Bina, I have been punishing you girls because I wanted to punish myself. I wished someone had told me to stand up for myself then, but I see that’s not the whole story. I will make Desmond understand what he’s done. The dangers he put you in. And he should be here, supporting you. He is responsible too and this is not an easy process, I know. You need support.

BINA: Thank you, Mrs Moholo. But I don’t want support from him now.

AGNES: I understand and believe me I’ll make him understand too.  Please take care, you see how easy it is to get exposed. It just takes one time. And for what? Because he asked you? Because you loved him? Because of what others will say? Not worth it. Okay? Not worth it.

The girls nod, Cynthia putting her arm around her friend. Agnes squeezes Bina’s arm.

AGNES: This is a brave and mature decision you’re making. You are lucky you have a good friend, Bina. And I’m sorry I was so harsh. You girls, you two… you are going to be okay. She smiles.

Tell us: what did you think of this play?