(Nandi’s father, Jabulani, sits her down for a heart-to-heart talk.)
Jabulani: Nandi, my child, I know things have been tough lately. But I want you to know that we’re here for you, no matter what.
Nandi: (sighs) Thanks, Dad. But it’s just…I feel so lost. I don’t know what’s happening with Kael, and school is stressing me out…
Jabulani: (nods) I understand. But remember, family always comes first. We’ll get through this together.
(Meanwhile, Tumi, Nandi’s younger brother, is eavesdropping on their conversation.)
Tumi: (whispers to himself) I wonder what’s going on with Nandi and Kael…sounds juicy!
(Nandi’s mother, Nombulelo, enters the room.)
Nombulelo: Jabulani, have you talked to Nandi about her behavior lately?
Jabulani: (hesitates) Ah, not yet. I was waiting for the right moment.
Nombulelo: (firmly) That moment is now. Nandi, we need to discuss your actions and how they affect this family.
Nandi: (defensive) What actions?!
Nombulelo: (sternly) Your constant arguing with Kael, your declining grades…it’s time we addressed these issues.
Nandi: (tearfully) Fine…
A while ago
Nombulelo: (firmly) Nandi, we know you’re a smart girl, but your grades have been slipping. And this business with Kael…it’s not healthy.
Nandi: (defensive) You don’t understand, Mom! Kael’s going through some stuff too!
Jabulani: (calmly) We’re not asking you to choose between us and Kael, Nandi. We just want what’s best for you.
Tumi: (mouthing off) Yeah, like staying away from vampires!
Nombulelo: (sternly) Tumi, that’s enough!
Nandi: (frustrated) This is all because of Kael, isn’t it?! You don’t trust me to make my own decisions!
Jabulani: (firmly) Nandi, we trust you, but we also know you’re young and vulnerable. We want to protect you.
Nandi: (tearfully) Protect me from what?! From Kael?! From myself?!
(The argument escalates until Nandi storms out of the room, feeling misunderstood and trapped.)