((Scene: Wellington, Matt, and Acro))
Acro: *It's hot outside in the exercise yard, which means there are only a few people about as Acro takes to the basketball court with a ball in his lap. He moves to about where the free throw line would be to take a shot--by now he's gotten good enough that even when he misses, the ball bounces back to him almost every time, so he doesn't have to go wheeling after it. Enjoying the rare moment of privacy, he whistles to himself as he makes a few more shots.*
Matt: *Stepping outside into the sun, Matt allows himself a small smile before he takes a few strides further into the yard. Peeking over his shoulder at the man who should be following him, he makes a motion with his hand for Wellington to hurry up. The weather is too nice to spend just standing around for once.* Come on, dude! We don't want to waste our one hour out here, do we?
Wellington: I'm coming! *follows, tilting his head to look up at the sky* Wow, it's really bright out. What are we going to do today?
Matt: *Smirks, walking towards the basketball court. He plans to go around the court to arrive at their destination.* I've got a few plans for today. A few things we can talk over too, Welly dude.
Wellington: Okay, that sounds good. Do you think we'll see anyone we know out here? Like the big orange guy?
Matt: *Waves a hand dismissively as they walk across the end of the court where Acro is playing basketball with himself.* Probably, but let's try and avoid him today. I don't want to waste time with games.
Wellington: *nods vaguely, then spots Acro on the court, and even with his bad eyesight he can see that the man is in a wheelchair* ...Hey, I think we know that guy. I've seen him! He lives in the same hall as us. *points at Acro* ...Are we avoiding him, too?
Matt: Acro? *Shakes his head.* Naw. He's a cool dude.
Acro: *Acro spots the two men, and watches them curiously for a moment as the circle the court. In his distraction he misplaces his shot, and the basketball goes bouncing off towards the pair. Acro frowns after it, and clear his throat.* A little help?
Wellington: *Catches the ball and stares at it in his hand for a second before glancing up at Matt, then at Acro.* Huh? Okay. Sure! *Smiles and walks towards Acro with the ball.*
Matt: *Follows Wellington. He likes Acro enough that he doesn't care if they stop and chat for a few moments.* Hey Acro! How is it going?
Acro: *Acro smiles as they approach* Hello Matt, Richard. Great weather today, isn't it? Thanks for your help.
Wellington: *hands him the ball instead of throwing it* Yeah, it's so sunny! I wish we could be out longer than an hour.
Acro: *Acro accepts the ball with a weak chuckle.* Well, yeah, for now. I'm just practicing some free throws. What are you two up to?
Matt: *Answers quickly.* Nothing at all! Just enjoying the weather, of course! It's totally too nice to not enjoy.
Acro: Ah, you're so right. It's a shame more people aren't out today. *Acro bounces the ball once* Do you want to join me? We could play horse.
Wellington: That sounds fun. *smiles at Acro* I played basketball a few days ago, it was pretty cool.
Matt:... *Glances to Wellington before looking back to Acro.* I don't think I'm really in the mood to play basketball again, dudes...
Acro: It's not really basketball--it's just horse. *Acro grins* I'll start with an H already, if you want.
Matt: *Crosses his arms as he glances to the side, away from both men for a moment. That did sound easy enough.* I suppose we could play for a bit, dude. *Turns back to smile at other men.*
Wellington: *smiles back* And then we'll talk about things when we're done, right? *walks out onto the court*
Acro: Great! I'll start--with an H, as promised. *Acro turns his wheel chair to face the basket and shoots; the ball bounces once against the rim and goes in.*
Matt: Nice shot, dude! *Grabs the bouncing ball before it gets too far away and moves to stand next to Acro.* Okay... *Aims and shoots...the ball bounces off the backboard and goes flying off the basketball court.* ...
Wellington: I'll get it... *goes after the ball and retrieves it, then walks back onto the court with it* Hm... is it my turn now?
Acro: *Acro chuckles* That's an H for Matt. Your turn, Richard.
Wellington: *Nods, then stands where the other two had been positioned, squinting at the hoop, which looks blurry to him. He tosses the ball, and it bounces off the rim, failing to go inside the hoop.*
Matt: *Smirks to himself- at least he isn't the only one to have failed the first round.* Nice try, dude! Better luck next time. *Grabs the ball and hands it over to Acro.*
Acro: We'll all even then. *Acro wheels to a different position on the court, to the side, and heaves the ball with a bit more strength than is necessary. It bounces off the backboard with a loud thud, and then rushes unexpectedly back towards Matt and Wellington.*
Matt: *With his hair still hanging in front of one eye, Matt sees the ball rushing towards him, but does nothing, his lack of depth perception making him feel he is completely safe right where he is. It isn't until the ball is merely inches away from his face, that he grits his teeth and lets out a small cry. The ball smacks him straight in the face and with all that extra strength behind it from Acro, he falls backwards, slipping out of consciousness.*
Wellington: *winces as the former actor is struck in the face* ...Matt??? Matt, are you okay? *when Matt fails to respond, Wellington kneels next to him and shakes one of his shoulders*
Acro: *Acro gasps, horrified by what he's done. He quickly joins Wellington, but because of his chair he can't get too close or check on Matt himself.* Matt! I'm so sorry--is he all right?
Wellington: I don't know, he's not responding... *he reaches for Matt's face and brushes his hair aside to check for damage-- but his hand freezes when he reveals the long scars lining the side of Matt's face* What... how did--... *suddenly, he stiffens, eyes wide and blank*
Matt: *His hand twitching, the former actor stirs. His eyes open slowly, but then narrow as he spots Wellington right above his face. He isn't awake enough yet to notice that his hair is brushed out of his face.* W-what the hell?
Wellington: *For a long moment, Wellington doesn't move at all, continuing to stare directly at Matt's scars. And then, his shoulders tremble slightly, and his mouth twists into a furious sneer-- but suddenly, his expression drops into a straight and neutral one. He moves his hands away from Matt and stands up.*
Matt: *Sits up, bringing a hand to his nose to make sure it is uninjured. A small sigh of relief escapes his mouth as he realizes it is just tender, but not damaged.* Damn... *Looks between Wellington and Acro, not nothing the former's odd behavior yet. He forces a smile at Acro.* You are strong, dude.
Acro: *Acro watches Matt anxiously* I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to... Are you all right? Your nose isn't broken, is it? Or your teeth?
Matt: *Taking another moment to slide his tongue over his teeth, he finally grins again.* Yep. I'm fine, dude. It would take a lot more than a stupid basketball to hurt me. *Glances over to Wellington.* Right, dude?
Wellington:............... *his mouth twitches again, but then he puts one hand on his hip and gives a small smirk* Of course... Matt.
Acro: *Acro is completely oblivious to the slight change in Wellington's manner.* Oh, thank goodness. I feel awful. Is there anything I can get for you?
Matt: …*Raises an eyebrow at the smaller man before looking back to Acro.* No thanks. That was a great game, dude, but...I think we are finished for now.
Wellington: *Chuckles low in his throat and brushes his hair out of his face-- though it falls back forward, still loose and uncombed. He tilts his head back and seems to be considering something for a moment, then looks at Matt, smiling easily.* Wow, Matt. You sure got hit hard! I guess basketball is too hard for you. Are you going to be okay?
Matt: *His eyes narrow quickly and for a brief moment, he feels a rush of anger wash over him. But then he relaxes, remembering just what state Wellington is in. There's no way he would have meant to say something like that in a cruel way.* Yeah, I'll be fine.
Acro: I really am sorry... *Acro glances at Matt's scars--it's the first time he's seen them, and they are a little intimidating. But after just slamming Matt in the face he doesn't really have the right to ask.* Um... You should probably put some ice on it, just in case.
Wellington: *raises his voice a little and draws his eyebrows together so that he seems deeply concerned* Yes, you wouldn't want your face to swell up! That would look awful, especially next to all those scars... *clasps his hands together for effect*
Matt: !.. *Cringing, his hand flies up to sweep his bangs down in front of his right eye again. The comment is embarrassing enough for him to decide to make a hasty retreat. He stands up quickly, wobbling a little, before he waves stiffly at Acro.* Later. *With that, he walks away swiftly, not giving either man a chance to respond. He assumes that Wellington will just follow him anyway.*
Wellington: *stays standing in the same place, then looks to the side over to Acro, grinning* You're quite good at basketball for a handicapped man. That was some throw.
Acro: Oh, um...thanks. *Acro scratches the back of his neck awkwardly, but smiles.* I guess I don't know my own strength sometimes.
Wellington: *chuckles, putting one hand on his hip again, and pulling a small comb out of his pants pocket with the other, expertly sweeping some of his messy hair back out of his face* Engarde didn't know it, either.
Acro: *Acro glances between Wellington and Matt's turned back, looking baffled.* Yeah... I didn't mean it, though. *He frowns.* Those scars... I didn't know he had those.
Wellington: *frowns as his comb hits a snag, and he brings his other hand up to work the tangle out* Those scars of his... he showed them to me the first day I came to our block. *shudders slightly before resuming his combing* They're rather unsettling.
Acro: Yeah, really. I wonder if they still hurt...? *Acro tries to shake off the unpleasant feeling they gave him.* It's none of my business, though. I can't blame him for keeping them covered up.
Wellington: *puts the comb back in his pocket and looks in the direction of Matt's retreating form* I wish he'd keep them covered up all the time.
Acro: *Again Acro is a little confused.* Are you all right, Richard? You've kind of seemed a little...different, lately.
Wellington: *smirks haughtily at Acro* Oh, I'm fine now. Don't you concern yourself over it. I just... *frowns and brushes his arms off disgustedly* ...could really use a proper shower right now. And my hair is a mess.
Acro: It looks fine to me. *Acro scratches the back of his neck again, then looks around for the basketball.* If you want to leave, go ahead. I'm going to stay out here a while longer.
Wellington: *snorts derisively and runs his fingers through his hair* Hm. I guess it's acceptable enough... for awhile at least. *glances in Matt's direction again for a moment* ...Well, I'll be going now. *smirks* Enjoy your... sport. I wouldn't mind seeing you challenge Engarde again, either. *walks off towards the exit that leads into the cell block, fixing the top button of his black shirt as he moves*
Acro: *Acro watches him leave, still feeling as if he's missing something important. Eventually he shrugs, and retrieves the basketball for a few more shots.*
Matt: *Stepping outside into the sun, Matt allows himself a small smile before he takes a few strides further into the yard. Peeking over his shoulder at the man who should be following him, he makes a motion with his hand for Wellington to hurry up. The weather is too nice to spend just standing around for once.* Come on, dude! We don't want to waste our one hour out here, do we?
Wellington: I'm coming! *follows, tilting his head to look up at the sky* Wow, it's really bright out. What are we going to do today?
Matt: *Smirks, walking towards the basketball court. He plans to go around the court to arrive at their destination.* I've got a few plans for today. A few things we can talk over too, Welly dude.
Wellington: Okay, that sounds good. Do you think we'll see anyone we know out here? Like the big orange guy?
Matt: *Waves a hand dismissively as they walk across the end of the court where Acro is playing basketball with himself.* Probably, but let's try and avoid him today. I don't want to waste time with games.
Wellington: *nods vaguely, then spots Acro on the court, and even with his bad eyesight he can see that the man is in a wheelchair* ...Hey, I think we know that guy. I've seen him! He lives in the same hall as us. *points at Acro* ...Are we avoiding him, too?
Matt: Acro? *Shakes his head.* Naw. He's a cool dude.
Acro: *Acro spots the two men, and watches them curiously for a moment as the circle the court. In his distraction he misplaces his shot, and the basketball goes bouncing off towards the pair. Acro frowns after it, and clear his throat.* A little help?
Wellington: *Catches the ball and stares at it in his hand for a second before glancing up at Matt, then at Acro.* Huh? Okay. Sure! *Smiles and walks towards Acro with the ball.*
Matt: *Follows Wellington. He likes Acro enough that he doesn't care if they stop and chat for a few moments.* Hey Acro! How is it going?
Acro: *Acro smiles as they approach* Hello Matt, Richard. Great weather today, isn't it? Thanks for your help.
Wellington: *hands him the ball instead of throwing it* Yeah, it's so sunny! I wish we could be out longer than an hour.
Acro: *Acro accepts the ball with a weak chuckle.* Well, yeah, for now. I'm just practicing some free throws. What are you two up to?
Matt: *Answers quickly.* Nothing at all! Just enjoying the weather, of course! It's totally too nice to not enjoy.
Acro: Ah, you're so right. It's a shame more people aren't out today. *Acro bounces the ball once* Do you want to join me? We could play horse.
Wellington: That sounds fun. *smiles at Acro* I played basketball a few days ago, it was pretty cool.
Matt:... *Glances to Wellington before looking back to Acro.* I don't think I'm really in the mood to play basketball again, dudes...
Acro: It's not really basketball--it's just horse. *Acro grins* I'll start with an H already, if you want.
Matt: *Crosses his arms as he glances to the side, away from both men for a moment. That did sound easy enough.* I suppose we could play for a bit, dude. *Turns back to smile at other men.*
Wellington: *smiles back* And then we'll talk about things when we're done, right? *walks out onto the court*
Acro: Great! I'll start--with an H, as promised. *Acro turns his wheel chair to face the basket and shoots; the ball bounces once against the rim and goes in.*
Matt: Nice shot, dude! *Grabs the bouncing ball before it gets too far away and moves to stand next to Acro.* Okay... *Aims and shoots...the ball bounces off the backboard and goes flying off the basketball court.* ...
Wellington: I'll get it... *goes after the ball and retrieves it, then walks back onto the court with it* Hm... is it my turn now?
Acro: *Acro chuckles* That's an H for Matt. Your turn, Richard.
Wellington: *Nods, then stands where the other two had been positioned, squinting at the hoop, which looks blurry to him. He tosses the ball, and it bounces off the rim, failing to go inside the hoop.*
Matt: *Smirks to himself- at least he isn't the only one to have failed the first round.* Nice try, dude! Better luck next time. *Grabs the ball and hands it over to Acro.*
Acro: We'll all even then. *Acro wheels to a different position on the court, to the side, and heaves the ball with a bit more strength than is necessary. It bounces off the backboard with a loud thud, and then rushes unexpectedly back towards Matt and Wellington.*
Matt: *With his hair still hanging in front of one eye, Matt sees the ball rushing towards him, but does nothing, his lack of depth perception making him feel he is completely safe right where he is. It isn't until the ball is merely inches away from his face, that he grits his teeth and lets out a small cry. The ball smacks him straight in the face and with all that extra strength behind it from Acro, he falls backwards, slipping out of consciousness.*
Wellington: *winces as the former actor is struck in the face* ...Matt??? Matt, are you okay? *when Matt fails to respond, Wellington kneels next to him and shakes one of his shoulders*
Acro: *Acro gasps, horrified by what he's done. He quickly joins Wellington, but because of his chair he can't get too close or check on Matt himself.* Matt! I'm so sorry--is he all right?
Wellington: I don't know, he's not responding... *he reaches for Matt's face and brushes his hair aside to check for damage-- but his hand freezes when he reveals the long scars lining the side of Matt's face* What... how did--... *suddenly, he stiffens, eyes wide and blank*
Matt: *His hand twitching, the former actor stirs. His eyes open slowly, but then narrow as he spots Wellington right above his face. He isn't awake enough yet to notice that his hair is brushed out of his face.* W-what the hell?
Wellington: *For a long moment, Wellington doesn't move at all, continuing to stare directly at Matt's scars. And then, his shoulders tremble slightly, and his mouth twists into a furious sneer-- but suddenly, his expression drops into a straight and neutral one. He moves his hands away from Matt and stands up.*
Matt: *Sits up, bringing a hand to his nose to make sure it is uninjured. A small sigh of relief escapes his mouth as he realizes it is just tender, but not damaged.* Damn... *Looks between Wellington and Acro, not nothing the former's odd behavior yet. He forces a smile at Acro.* You are strong, dude.
Acro: *Acro watches Matt anxiously* I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to... Are you all right? Your nose isn't broken, is it? Or your teeth?
Matt: *Taking another moment to slide his tongue over his teeth, he finally grins again.* Yep. I'm fine, dude. It would take a lot more than a stupid basketball to hurt me. *Glances over to Wellington.* Right, dude?
Wellington:............... *his mouth twitches again, but then he puts one hand on his hip and gives a small smirk* Of course... Matt.
Acro: *Acro is completely oblivious to the slight change in Wellington's manner.* Oh, thank goodness. I feel awful. Is there anything I can get for you?
Matt: …*Raises an eyebrow at the smaller man before looking back to Acro.* No thanks. That was a great game, dude, but...I think we are finished for now.
Wellington: *Chuckles low in his throat and brushes his hair out of his face-- though it falls back forward, still loose and uncombed. He tilts his head back and seems to be considering something for a moment, then looks at Matt, smiling easily.* Wow, Matt. You sure got hit hard! I guess basketball is too hard for you. Are you going to be okay?
Matt: *His eyes narrow quickly and for a brief moment, he feels a rush of anger wash over him. But then he relaxes, remembering just what state Wellington is in. There's no way he would have meant to say something like that in a cruel way.* Yeah, I'll be fine.
Acro: I really am sorry... *Acro glances at Matt's scars--it's the first time he's seen them, and they are a little intimidating. But after just slamming Matt in the face he doesn't really have the right to ask.* Um... You should probably put some ice on it, just in case.
Wellington: *raises his voice a little and draws his eyebrows together so that he seems deeply concerned* Yes, you wouldn't want your face to swell up! That would look awful, especially next to all those scars... *clasps his hands together for effect*
Matt: !.. *Cringing, his hand flies up to sweep his bangs down in front of his right eye again. The comment is embarrassing enough for him to decide to make a hasty retreat. He stands up quickly, wobbling a little, before he waves stiffly at Acro.* Later. *With that, he walks away swiftly, not giving either man a chance to respond. He assumes that Wellington will just follow him anyway.*
Wellington: *stays standing in the same place, then looks to the side over to Acro, grinning* You're quite good at basketball for a handicapped man. That was some throw.
Acro: Oh, um...thanks. *Acro scratches the back of his neck awkwardly, but smiles.* I guess I don't know my own strength sometimes.
Wellington: *chuckles, putting one hand on his hip again, and pulling a small comb out of his pants pocket with the other, expertly sweeping some of his messy hair back out of his face* Engarde didn't know it, either.
Acro: *Acro glances between Wellington and Matt's turned back, looking baffled.* Yeah... I didn't mean it, though. *He frowns.* Those scars... I didn't know he had those.
Wellington: *frowns as his comb hits a snag, and he brings his other hand up to work the tangle out* Those scars of his... he showed them to me the first day I came to our block. *shudders slightly before resuming his combing* They're rather unsettling.
Acro: Yeah, really. I wonder if they still hurt...? *Acro tries to shake off the unpleasant feeling they gave him.* It's none of my business, though. I can't blame him for keeping them covered up.
Wellington: *puts the comb back in his pocket and looks in the direction of Matt's retreating form* I wish he'd keep them covered up all the time.
Acro: *Again Acro is a little confused.* Are you all right, Richard? You've kind of seemed a little...different, lately.
Wellington: *smirks haughtily at Acro* Oh, I'm fine now. Don't you concern yourself over it. I just... *frowns and brushes his arms off disgustedly* ...could really use a proper shower right now. And my hair is a mess.
Acro: It looks fine to me. *Acro scratches the back of his neck again, then looks around for the basketball.* If you want to leave, go ahead. I'm going to stay out here a while longer.
Wellington: *snorts derisively and runs his fingers through his hair* Hm. I guess it's acceptable enough... for awhile at least. *glances in Matt's direction again for a moment* ...Well, I'll be going now. *smirks* Enjoy your... sport. I wouldn't mind seeing you challenge Engarde again, either. *walks off towards the exit that leads into the cell block, fixing the top button of his black shirt as he moves*
Acro: *Acro watches him leave, still feeling as if he's missing something important. Eventually he shrugs, and retrieves the basketball for a few more shots.*