"The Lady in the Green Skirt"

Characters:

LEAH: A dark haired, fair-skinned woman who is rumored to be a witch in the small town she inhabits. Her dog has been purposefully injured by people who despise and fear her for being 'odd'. She has just found the dog, trembling and lying on his side on her porch.

BRADY: An eleven year old boy who lives in the neighborhood. He is aware of the rumors about Leah, and is fascinated by the possibility that she can do magic.

VOICE: Someone who lives nearby.

TOBY: The dog.

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LEAH: (coming up her front porch, two steps at a time)Toby? What's the matter, fella? (she kneels down to gingerly touch the dog's side and lame, back leg)

TOBY: (whimpers)

LEAH: Shhh... it's alright. Let me have a look. What did you get yourself into now? Did you tangle with another dog? I thought I locked your gate this morning. This almost looks like... (she goes silent for a moment) Well, this isn't a bite. No animal did that. Did somebody hurt you, boy? You're all messed up back here. (for the first time she raises her head and looks around the property uncertainly; it is quiet)

(Leah stands up, she calls out:) If anyone has a problem with me, you take it up with me and leave my dog out of it!

VOICE: (from a neighboring window) Clamor down, you crazy old witch!

LEAH: If I find out this was you, Harlan, a crazy old witch is exactly what you'll get! You will not take your petty grievances out on a helpless animal!

VOICE: I didn't do nothin', now stop your shouting or I'll call the cops.

LEAH: Call the cops then! I have a lot to talk to them about, actually. (her voice drops to a mutter) Abusing an animal, taking out their rank stupidity on some helpless beast. I just can't even fathom... (she suddenly collapses down beside her pet and buries her face in his fur) Oh Toby, I'm so sorry this happened to you. I should have realized you'd be in danger. It's all my fault, boy.

BRADY: (who has come up to the edge of the yard after hearing all the shouting, and now stands, tentatively, ready to run but unable to ignore the distressed woman.) Ma'am?

LEAH: (looking up, squinting) Nicholas?

BRADY: No, that's my brother. I'm Brady.

LEAH: Oh, hello Brady. Do you need something?

BRADY: I just heard the yelling, and I thought I'd come and see... (he trails off) Is something wrong with your dog?

LEAH: (sitting up straighter and smoothing her hair back from her face.) Yes. He's

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