Original subtitles

Lauren? Excuse us! Lauren? Excuse us! Excuse us!

Move! Excuse us!

Move! Move! Fuck!

Oh my

god, no!

Lipids dissolve easily in water.

True.

I thought you said you studied.

Isn't that what I'm doing right now?

Ray, you need to know this stuff.

No, actually, you need to know this stuff because you're the one who wants

a doctor.

I just need to know enough to get a seat.

Oh, FYI, I signed a separate prom committee.

Dude, I'm not even sure I want to go to prom, much less plan it. Okay, that's

crazy talk. Everybody wants to go to prom.

Okay, fine. Just do it because it'll look good on your college applications.

Hmm. Super helpful considering I submitted them months ago.

Hi. I will take a black coffee, please.

Oh, my God.

Lauren Burke?

Is that you, honey?

Uh, yeah.

Helene. Helene Matthews. My goodness, the last time I saw you, you were about

this big.

Oh, my sweet Nora. She was competing during Little Miss Dewdrop, and the two

you were running around wild in your backyard.

Right. Yeah, Mrs. Matthews. It's nice to see you.

Oh, shoot. I have to pick Nora up from her vocal lesson, but you tell your mom

I'm going to call her, okay?

Bye. Bye.

What was that?

I know, right?

All my mom's pageant friends are like that.

Oh, yeah. I always forgot your mom was like a beauty queen.

She said she had the best time and it paid for college, so whatever.

You ready for another one?

No, but hit me anyway.

Oh, my God.

This has to be about my application, right?

I'll be one way to find out.

Why isn't it opening? Go to the website.

Come on. Come on. Come on.

Oh, my God. What have I done to deserve this? Call your mom.

Rob, I'm going to have to call you back.

Okay. Bye.

Hey, everything okay? What's going on? I'm fine, but I need a favor. It's life

or death.

I seriously doubt that.

For real, Mom, Banderton updated my application, but I can't open the app.

the website.

And if I don't find out what it says, I'm literally going to die.

Okay, hold on.

You're the best.

Are you there, Mom?

Yeah, no, I'm here. The app and the website are both down.

So I came out to see if you have anything in the mailbox.

Mom, this isn't a dark agent. They're not sending it in the mail.

How much you want to bet?

A

toast

to my baby girl.

When you were four years old, you came downstairs and informed your mom and me

that you were going to be a doctor. And I say informed because there was

absolutely no discussion.

True story.

But that's who you are and what you do.

You set a goal and you achieve it. Because why?

Because birds never say die.

We're just so proud of you.

Thought she was going to qualify for more financial aid.

And do you think it would help if we sent them copies of our mortgage and car

payments? Or Lauren's medical bills?

What are we going to do?

Well, we're going to do what other people do.

We're going to apply for scholarship.

Take out a loan.

No loans.

The last thing I wanted for her to have to start out in the hole like I did.

I hate that this is even an issue.

Whoa.

17K is a lot of cash. What are you going to do?

I made an appointment with the new guidance counselor tomorrow.

Oh, yeah, with Dormans. He's so dope.

Yeah, she helped me with a bunch of my cosmetology school applications.

If anyone's going to know what to do, it'll be her.

Oh, also, do you want to get a smoothie tomorrow from Savage Nature?

You want a smoothie.

You know that has fruit in it, right?

Yeah, I know. I like healthy things.

Okay, so there's this really cute guy who works there who I've, like, almost

made eye contact with.

I wish I could, but I have to have family breakfast. My mom is obsessed

spending quality time together.

Dude, did something, like, go out on their group chat? Because Beth can speak

nothing else.

It's like she thinks the minute I graduate, she's never going to see me

You're literally living at home next year.

Yeah, I know.

Can you imagine how needy she'd be if I was actually leaving?

Can I come in?

Hey, Ray.

I'll talk to you tomorrow.

What's up?

Um, nothing. I just... I know you seemed a little bit off after dinner, and

considering you just got the best news of your life, it seemed a little

so... What's up?

I overheard you and Dad talking about how much Vanderton's gonna cost.

Mom, I don't have to go there.

I can go somewhere else. I can go somewhere cheaper.

Lauren, no.

Bannerton is your dream.

This is so expensive.

It is.

But it's also the best figurative and prognostic factor research facility.

Honey, if we can make this happen for you, we will.

Okay? Okay.

Get some sleep.

Okay.

Hey, I almost forgot.

I ran into that friend of yours today, Mrs.

Matthews.

Helene?

What's she doing in town?

I don't know. Guess he lives here now.

Laura.

Yeah.

I mean it.

We're going to figure this out, okay?

Okay.

I love you.

Love you, too.

So what can I do for you? We got the financial aid package.

And it's not enough.

Like not even close.

Yeah. It's kind of the plight of the middle class.

Your parents make too much to qualify for aid, but not enough to afford such

high tuition.

The good news is you have been busy these last four years.

I'm going to email you a website where you can put all your info, and it'll

you a list of things you qualify for.

Thanks.

I know this can be overwhelming.

If you need any help, that's my thing.

Call me anytime.

Thank you.

So, how's the money hunt going?

If I get every single scholarship I apply for, it's almost enough to cover

first year's tuition.

Yikes.

Man, too bad you can't pay for college the way your mom did.

Guys, I think I might have figured everything out.

I would like to enter the Miss Teen Starfire pageant.

Maybe.

No.

Why not? The winner gets like $50 ,000.

Didn't we try this once already?

Yes, and it was a disaster.

Need I remind you of the Little Miss Blue Lily fiasco of 2012?

I was four, and I think I'm past the peeing my pants on stage phase of life.

Why won't you let me do this?

You're always saying how much fun pageants were and that you wouldn't be

are today without them.

That's true, but they're a huge commitment.

I know. I looked at the website.

It's a lot of work. But when has that ever bothered me?

Honey, you have no idea what goes into all of this.

I feel like we should stay the course and we should focus on the scholarships

and the grants.

Obviously, I'm still doing that.

But I'm up against like a thousand people for a couple hundred dollars here

there. With a pageant, it's like 10 people for 50 grand.

I mean, it kind of seems like a no -brainer to me.

You don't just sign up for a beauty pageant and expect you're going to win.

That's not how these things work.

These girls have trained for literally years.

They have walking coaches and interview coaches and talent coaches.

He'll be my coach.

You're always saying you want to spend more time with me. Now's your chance.

Come on, Mom.

Please.

Okay.

Okay,

but I just have to place in the top three.

Still pretty much impossible.

Not when I'm the best coach in the whole wide world.

have taken three sodas already today.

Deal with it.

And you agreed to participate in this thing willingly?

Okay, like, no shade, but you're basically the last person I ever

entering a beauty pageant.

I don't know whether to feel offended or seen.

Oh, come on. You know you're not really, like, pageant girl.

And what exactly is a pageant girl?

Uh, you know, someone with poise.

Talent. Pride in their appearance.

Wow, guy.

Shots fired.

Okay, don't get salty.

All right? You know what we mean. I'm your substance, and they're... Not.

But they could be.

And maybe I'm the breath of fresh air the pageant world needs.

Laura, have you looked at the schedule?

I know. It looks way worse than it is. Yeah, I hope so.

I'm going to be a total drag to spend the last few months of high school with

strangers instead of your friends.

Okay, traumatic much?

Will I miss a hang or two here and there? Yes.

But for the most part, all I have to do is throw on a dress, walk across the

stage, and smile.

How much prep can that possibly take?

Girl, I've seen you walk in heels.

If I were you, I'd start practicing now.

Rude!

So, I was thinking I should wear my hair up, because that's probably easiest,

right? It depends. Are you changing clothes over your head, or are you

in and out of them?

Absolutely no idea.

Hi, Ray. Hi, Mrs. Burke.

Can you come into the living room for just a minute?

Mom, we need to get started on our homework.

It'll only be a minute.

Okay.

I

thought

we could try some things on and see what works best on you.

Marching through all that has fallen.

It's time for you to reach inside.

Get on the ride.

Get up and get on. Get on the train.

Get on the bus. Don't stop.

Let's make a chain. On the bus, all of us.

It has not changed at all.

Gosh, look at these photos.

Wow.

Oh, my God. It's you.

It's you.

How are you? Oh, my God.

Are you going to let me breathe, honey? Sorry, I'm just so excited.

When I saw Lauren's name on the Starfire roster next to Nora's, I couldn't

believe it. Talk about a full circle moment.

It really is, isn't it?

Here, come on. Let's get you checked in. Oh, okay. Are you okay?

How long do you think this is going to take?

It's probably going to be about an hour. Why?

Grace signed me up for a prom committee, and I have to put an agenda together

for the meeting tomorrow.

Do you even really want to go to prom?

TBD.

Okay.

Welcome, friends, to the 55th annual Miss Teen Starfire

Festival.

I'm happy to see so many of the usual suspects, as well as a few faces I

seen in quite some time.

As you know, Miss Starfire is not just a beauty pageant.

It is a competition designed to inspire and empower young women to their

greatest potential.

Because we believe that with hard work, dedication, and a

little encouragement, there is nothing that cannot be achieved.

Sorry your mom pawned me off on you.

I know we haven't seen each other in like a decade.

NBD, this is your first pageant, right?

Technically, no.

Right.

Well, let's hope that you last more than ten minutes this time.

How many have you been in?

I don't know.

Like three or four a year for twelve years, so however many that is.

The same for most of these girls.

We've all been on the same circuit together since we were like five.

Wow, so you're basically an expert.

Any advice besides get all you can?

I guess the first thing to remember would be all of these girls have serious

main character energy. So there will be drama, and obviously everyone wants to

win, but not necessarily for the same reason.

Yes, I just assume everybody needs money for college like I do.

Let me tell you, being a doctor is not come cheap.

Money's definitely a big one.

But then there's also girls like my friend Maddie, where literally everyone

her family has worn the crown. She's under that don't come home without it

of pressure. Seriously? Oh, yeah. People are beyond about this stuff.

There's this one girl, Brianna, who thinks she's going to get discovered or

something. No way. Oh, yeah.

She's convinced.

She's two wins away from getting her own reality show. Don't be scared.

I'm just telling you this so you know how mega serious people take it.

So what should I do?

Okay, there's three kinds of girls to watch out for.

The liars, the criers, and the kleptos.

So basically, keep an eye on your stuff and don't believe a single thing anybody

tells you, especially when they find out this is your first rodeo. You should be

fine.

Have I told you how great you look?

What, me?

I mean, are you kidding?

I swear you haven't aged a day.

My injector is my emergency contact, so that tells you everything you need to

know.

I wish I was kidding.

If only I had the courage to age as gracefully as you.

Zoe?

Hey,

Nora. Who's your friend?

Uh, Brianna, Maddie, this is Lauren.

Nice to meet you.

You too.

So, what are we talking about?

Just spilling a little pageant tea.

Did you see Roger's not judging us here?

Oh, I heard he's on the flower circuit.

Somebody's in trouble.

What? The flower circuit. Hello, ladies.

Are we excited for these next few weeks?

Yes, Miss Brooks.

Mrs. Monroe, I understand congratulations are in order.

Thank you, ma 'am.

It wasn't a clean win, though, was it?

Second place in talent, third in evening wear.

Still room for improvement.

Yes, ma 'am.

And you must be the legendary Julianne Simmons' daughter?

Uh -huh.

I mean, yes, ma 'am.

It's Lauren's first pageant. I can tell.

I'm sure your mother will have you squared away in no time.

Maybe start with those eyebrows.

So sorry to interrupt.

The facility manager needs a word.

Excuse me, please.

Hi, Drew.

Ladies.

Don't believe a word these three say.

The prodigal grandson returns.

So?

Temperature check.

How are we feeling about all this?

I guess it's going to take a lot more time than I thought.

Go ahead.

I know you're dying to say that.

I don't know what you're talking about.

But seriously, now that you have an idea about what this is going to take, are

you sure this is something you want to do?

Is that your passive -aggressive way of telling me to quit?

Honey, look.

I will support you. I want to do it.

I don't know.

If I work really, really hard, maybe I could get third.

And that's like ten grand.

And if I don't, I haven't really lost anything, right?

Okay.

Get to work.

Goodbye.

Yeah, they're a little unkept.

Can you let me walk around like this?

Dude, see something, say something.

Um, I need a caffeine infusion.

Can you cover my tips today? I need to do some pageant stuff with my mom. Uh,

yeah.

What are you smiling at?

Uh, do you remember that guy from this movie place?

You guys are texting?

Wait, has he asked you out?

Uh, no, not yet. But I was hoping we could go grab a smoothie after prom

committee. You know, like, create the opportunity.

Uh, about that.

No, don't freak out.

I don't think I'm going to be able to do the prom committee.

I'm sorry. It's a pageant between it and school and work.

Something's got to give.

Do you promise this isn't just some low -key way for you to get out of going to

prom? Swear to God.

Okay.

Well, you can just meet him after the basketball game. His school's playing

school, so we're just going to hang out after.

Hello, ladies.

Ray, I just know that's not a phone I see you using. Yeah, no, no phone here.

I just spoke to a friend who runs the research lab at the hospital.

She's looking for a special project assistant.

It's 30 bucks an hour, Saturdays and Sundays, and the job is yours if you

it. Seriously?

That sounds so rad.

And, like, perfect for me.

Great. So...

I can tell her you can start this weekend.

Oh, uh... I'm just kind of in the middle of something right now. Is there any

way I could start in, like, a month?

She needs someone now, unfortunately.

Really?

I kind of have to see this other thing through.

Thanks anyway.

So today we need to pick your platform.

And this is one of my favorite parts of the pageant because this really tells

the judges what matters most to you as a person.

I want to do Red Heart MD.

Okay. They helped me so much with my cardiomyopathy diagnosis.

Yeah.

So what now? We fill out the form?

Yeah.

I just have to say it means so much to me that we're doing this together.

Yeah. Me too.

Yeah. Are you crying?

No.

Stop.

Yes, you are.

I just love you.

Oh, my God, they're huge.

My mom, she burrows my bag all the time.

So annoying, right?

I like

that color. Can

I try it?

Sure.

Have you picked your platform yet? I always do the environment.

It's easy.

Cool.

I'm doing this organization that buddies up sick kids with other kids who have

survived the same illness.

I used it when I was little, and seeing that I want to be a doctor and all, it

kind of makes sense.

Super.

Bea, that color looks amazing. I know, right? Lauren, is it okay if I try that

too?

Yeah, sure.

You know if there's a vending machine in the building that works? They always

unplug them during the pageant to stop us from eating junk food.

You could drink a bunch of water.

It tricks your body into thinking that you're really full, but not too much,

because then you'll bloat. It's a really fine line.

Knock, knock.

Oh, shucks.

You're decent.

You, more makeup.

Burke, come on. You're up.

Good luck.

Today, let's go.

First, we'll film your intro video.

That'll be shown at the beginning of the pageant. Then you'll do pre -interviews

with the judges. It's the first time they're meeting you, so bring your A

No pressure there.

You'll be great. Oh, and hey, just ignore what the other girls are saying

you.

Well, what are they saying?

Honestly, it's not worth repeating.

All right, sit here.

All right, look at me. Chin up. Right, no, not that much. Shoulders like this.

Hips back, arms here.

Okay.

This is good.

Don't move.

Okay, listen.

I need you to look at the camera like you're trying to seduce it.

Wait, you want me to what?

Oh, please.

Don't tell me you really are that naive nerd Brianna says you are.

Wait, really? She said that?

Don't be so surprised.

I mean, after all, she kind of is a bitch, right?

I guess.

Yeah, this isn't working for me. I need lipstick. Can someone... I need red

lipstick.

Thank you.

Put this on.

If it's okay, I'd rather not. I don't really like red lipstick. Honey, no, no,

no, no, no. It doesn't matter about what you like. It's about what the judges

like, and the judges like red.

Okay. Do you have a mirror?

Stand up.

Hook her up.

How sad is it that she thinks she has an actual shot at winning?

The saddest.

I mean, did you hear her go on and on about that boring charity? Like, the

judges give a crap about our platforms.

I know, right?

If you ask me, Nepo Baby's in for a rude awakening.

The rudest.

How'd it go?

Fine.

Are you okay?

Yeah. I have to get to work.

Drew said you called me a bit.

What? No, no, no. Save it.

Uh, what do you think you're doing?

It's my lipstick. I don't know what you're talking about. This is mine. I've

worn this color for, like, years.

Right, Maddie? Mm -hmm. For, like, ever.

What?

Oh, my God.

Lauren.

Lauren, stop.

Lauren, seriously.

What?

Remember what I said about liars, criers, and kleptos?

Brianna's kind of all three.

I swear, I didn't call her a bitch.

So what if you did? She is one.

Seriously? How do you not just punch her in the face all the time?

Whenever I get the urge to choose violence, I just reach up and... I

don't know why.

It makes me feel better.

If I followed that logic, I would be bald by the end of the week.

So, I'll see you tomorrow?

Yeah, I guess so.

Honey,

we're in here.

Hey, how was rehearsal?

Fine. I'm going to go do my homework.

In a minute. Tell us about it.

This guy, Drew, kept ordering me around.

He just told me to look at the camera like I was trying to seduce it.

Wait. Okay. He said what? No, it's just, it's like a figure of speech that a

photographer will use sometimes.

Whatever. Can I go do my homework?

Yeah, I ordered pizza, so I'll let you know when it gets here, okay?

I'm not hungry.

Lauren, can I come in?

Mom, I have a ton of homework.

It'll just take a sec.

Fine.

Can you please stop typing and look at me?

They're working you girls pretty hard, huh?

It's freaking brutal, Mom.

Look, you don't have to do this if you don't want to.

What happened to Burke and Everett? They die.

All I'm saying is that there's no shame in quitting.

Are you worried I'm going to embarrass you or something?

Of course not.

I'm doing it.

I really have to do my homework.

I love you.

Love you too.

So what do we have left for the Macalester staging?

Just a dining room set.

Hmm.

Why don't we do six of these with the oval dining table we saw on aisle 12?

Anything else?

I think that's it.

Oh, why don't we check out and see what they have by way of benches, and then

let's start the paperwork.

You got it, boss.

Thank you.

Hey.

Hey, how's it going?

Ray says she hasn't seen much of Lauren these last few weeks.

It has been intense. I swear I haven't slept more than five hours since this

whole thing started.

I noticed that Lauren hasn't made an appointment for her college wellness

You want me to make one for her?

I think I'm going to have to wait until this is over.

Things have just been really crazy lately.

I'm going to call you back.

I'll talk to you later.

Ms. Brooke?

Oh, hello, dear.

Hi. How unexpected.

Can I talk to you for a minute?

The thing is, is that Lauren has been getting home really late every night.

And I can see the toll that it's taking on her. And I know that if she's feeling

that way, that I'm sure the other girls are feeling that way too.

You know you could be right.

I'll see what I can do.

After all...

The girl's health and well -being is now and always has been our primary

concern.

Thank you.

You have no idea the load off my mind that that is.

Of course.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I really do have a million things to do.

Sure.

Ms. Burke, may I have a word with you, please?

Yes, ma 'am.

How do you feel it's going?

Are you acclimating well?

Yes, ma 'am.

The reason I ask is because I ran into your mother, and she went on and on

all the complaints you seem to have.

It has been my experience that complaining is a

sign of weakness.

And there is no room for weakness in my pageant.

Do we understand each other?

Yes, ma 'am.

Good.

Is that your dress?

Mm -hmm. Show me.

Oh!

Yes.

I remember this one.

It's very sweet, but it doesn't exactly have anything that stands out.

Maybe a brighter color or something that shows a bit more skin.

Sex it up a bit.

After all, a higher slit and a lower neckline never hurt anything.

Oh, thank you, God.

Everyone, Lauren has decided to grace us with her presence.

We can begin.

I'm really, really sorry. I was... I don't need your apology.

I need you to be in time.

Do you understand?

I'd expect more from Julie Simmons' daughter.

Places!

A one, a two, a one, two, three, four.

To the left.

To the left. Do you idiots not know your left from your right?

You call that a hot kick?

I need you to do better.

Look at those rolls.

Sharper with the arms, ladies.

Quick tip.

I need those arms better, okay?

Eyes up.

I don't know how this is possible.

But I think you're actually getting worse.

That's it for today.

Yeah.

Attention, please.

I found thee in the dressing room.

Just want to make sure the return of the rightful owner.

Do they look familiar to anyone?

Leave me alone. I don't want to talk to you or anyone else. This whole thing was

a huge mistake.

Don't say that, okay? You can't quit over that guy. He's a total jerk. What

about everything?

Is that enough?

Freaking Brianna.

I mean, what did I do to deserve this?

Nothing.

But you can tell her that she wins.

Thanks. I'm out of here.

Lauren, we're in here.

How was rehearsal?

Long.

Anything else?

Not really.

Well, you have to come and look at these photos I found of your mom and I.

They're hilarious.

Hard path.

Lauren? What?

How about homework?

I don't care. I mean, you don't speak to adults like that.

It's okay. She didn't mean anything by it.

All right.

Go do your homework.

Um, hi. This is Lauren Burke.

Oh.

Hi, Lauren. Is, uh, everything okay?

Uh, yeah. Yeah, it's fine. I'm sorry to bother you.

I was just wondering about that research job you mentioned.

My schedule's changed, and I can do it now.

Lauren, I'm really sorry, but she found someone else.

Okay. Uh, yeah, thanks anyway.

Mom, I told you I'm doing my homework.

It's Nora.

Oh. Come in.

Um, you forgot your dress.

Oh.

Thanks.

Looks like I'm gonna need it after all.

Really? Yeah.

Except Miss Brooks basically told me that my dress was hideous and there's no

way I could win wearing it.

Let me see.

Just say it.

It's very... Glinda Goodwitch.

But that's okay.

You could borrow my backup dress. It's in my car.

Why would you help me?

Because.

I want us to be friends when this is all over.

You're the only person I know in this town, and it would really suck if you

hated me.

What do you say?

Lauren,

we need to talk.

What else is new?

What is going on with you?

Honestly, I have no idea what you're talking about.

Okay.

What is that?

Nora lent it to me.

I'm going to wear it instead of your dress.

Everybody agrees it's probably better I don't look like a parade float.

I thought you liked the idea of wearing my dress.

but the judges like red better, and they're the only ones that matter, which

also why I'm changing my poem to The Raven. Two of them had it listed as

favorite in their bios, so I gotta give the people what they want.

Okay.

I'm sorry, how does that tie into your platform?

It doesn't, but platforms don't really matter.

Yes, they do. Honey, they're like the most important part.

Maybe when you were competing... What is going on with your attitude?

I... Don't understand why you think you know everything about something you

haven't been a part of for the last 20 years. Let me be a part of this, please.

Okay, I will take off work tomorrow, and then you and I can practice your dance

together, okay?

I would have to teach it to you. It would take too much time.

I'll just work on it with Nora, okay?

Okay.

But thanks.

If you need anything, I'm here.

Are you, like, mad at me or something?

Huh, what an astute observation.

Yes, I am mad at you or something.

For what?

You just assumed I would cover your shift without even asking me. I did ask

Okay, but you didn't wait to see if I could actually do it. You just assumed

that I would because I always do.

I told you I had plans to meet up with Dylan after the game. I told you that.

Who's Dylan?

Are you serious?

You cannot be this self -involved.

Oh, right. Yeah, the smoothie guy. Yeah, the smoothie guy.

I'm sorry, okay? I have like a million things bouncing around my head right

Tell me how I fix this.

Well, you could start by loaning me your blue sweater for my date tonight.

Done. I don't suppose there's any way you could pick it up from... I will drop

it off. I really am so, so sorry.

I guess we'll see about that.

Good luck tomorrow.

Oh, thanks.

Mom, have you seen my loose butter?

Yeah, it's on the drying rack.

Oh, I have something for you.

I made chocolate chip cookies.

I'm good.

Since when do you not like homemade chocolate chip cookies?

Since I have a dress to fit into.

Okay.

Gather round, gather round, quickly.

Miss Brooks has some announcements.

Unfortunately, one of our judges has had an unforeseen conflict.

But luckily, we were able to secure a true legend. Please join me in welcoming

to the stage Mr.

Roger Hammond.

Well, thank you for that very warm welcome.

I can't tell you how grateful I am to be back at Starfire.

There really is no place like home.

Now, I'll keep this short because I know that Martin is chomping at the bit to

run you gals ragged.

But I do want to wish you all good luck and remind you to impress me.

Norah, do you know him?

Okay, everyone, we're starting in five minutes.

Go practice.

How could this be happening?

Okay, you said you took care of this. You said I'd never have to see him

You promised.

How could this possibly be a good thing?

Whatever. I'll just talk to you at home.

Oh, God.

Are you okay?

Of course I am.

Why wouldn't I be?

Okay, I guess that'll have to do.

Apparently, there have been some complaints about how late I've been

you.

And I wouldn't want to get in the way of anyone's beauty sleep.

Remember, tomorrow I need you stage ready by 5 p .m. sharp.

Do not underestimate the amount of time some of you will need for hair and

makeup.

I cannot stress this enough.

Dismissed.

I guess it's a good thing I didn't hold my breath.

I'm so sorry.

I had it, and then I got into the whole thing with my mom. Oh, so now it's your

mom's fault.

Right, because nothing could ever be your fault.

Oh, my God.

I'm sorry.

Why are you so mad? It's just a stupid sweater. Okay, I'm not mad about a

sweater.

I'm mad because you said you'd do something, and then you didn't do it.

like how I'm not mad that you asked me to cover your shift, I'm mad because you

assumed something in your life was more important than anything in mine.

That isn't you.

You haven't been the same since you started this stupid pageant.

I know.

How was your date?

I mean, not that you deserve to know, but... Yeah, it was

pretty much the best night of my entire life.

I'm glad.

You deserve that. Thank you. I think so, too.

Do you want to hear about it?

If you want to tell me.

You okay there, Grandma?

Yeah, just a little achy. I think I overdid it on my run today.

Okay, so tell me everything.

Don't leave out a single detail, starting with the most important part.

Did he kiss you?

He did?

Was it a pack or more like a full -on make -out?

It was like somewhere in between.

Perfect.

Are you going to hang out with him again?

Yeah, we're grabbing coffee tomorrow.

Oh, but don't worry, we'll be done by six.

What's happening at six?

Oh, duh, the pageant.

I don't deserve a friend like you.

Yeah, you really don't.

Hey, are you sure you're okay?

Yeah, I just...

It's a bad headache.

I should probably go to bed.

I'll see you tomorrow.

Yeah.

Hi, honey. Hi.

Oh my gosh, look at these.

Look how beautiful you are.

Aw.

Honey, you are too.

Not like you.

You are the most beautiful person.

Inside and out.

And I'm so proud of you.

And everything that you have accomplished and how hard you have

And regardless of what happens tomorrow, nothing will change that.

Yeah.

Hmm.

Why do you keep pulling at your hair?

I'm not.

Yes, you are.

Is it itching you or something? Mom, tell her.

Let me see. Mom, stop.

Lauren, let me see.

Oh, my gosh.

Lauren.

How did this happen?

It's not a big deal, okay, Nora? She accidentally burned me with a curling

That's it.

It doesn't look like a burn.

Why would I lie to you?

I don't know.

Lately you've been doing a lot of things that don't seem like you.

What's that supposed to mean?

The Lauren I know is independent.

She thinks for herself.

She's not switching her dress at the last minute. She's not changing a poem

means something to her to a poem that somebody else likes.

But that's how you win.

And isn't that the point of all of this?

It's not supposed to feel like this.

Honey, we were supposed to do this pageant to bring us closer together.

Not to be at each other's throats all the time.

Maybe this is all just too much for you to handle.

Wait. Wait, what do you mean I can't handle this?

Are you saying you're not going to let me compete?

Are you, like, afraid I'm going to embarrass you or something? I'm going

like, tarnish the memory of the great Julie Ann Simmons? What are you talking

about? Mom, I have to do the pageant.

I've only gotten two of the scholarships I've applied for.

Two. That's nothing.

The only way I'm going to be able to go to college and become a doctor is by

winning Miss Starfire.

Honey, we will figure something out. I promise.

You keep saying that, but we haven't figured anything out.

So I'm sorry if you don't like it.

But I'm doing a pageant.

I'm going to do whatever it takes to win.

Why on today of all days has my skin decided to turn against me?

Seriously, I can't even see it.

tough break about that planet growing on your face.

Maybe my mom will have something that can fix this.

What? Was I supposed to lie?

Would it have killed you?

Yeah.

Hi.

Hey. I wanted to wish you luck really quick. How are you feeling?

Good.

Nervous. Ready for it to be over?

Is your neck okay? Do you still have a headache? Oh, yeah. I just slept funny

something. Maybe you pulled a muscle when you were making out.

Don't.

Attention, contestants.

It is now 15 minutes till curtain.

I can't believe I'm doing this. You're going to be amazing.

I'd sell for not terrible.

Atta girl. Dream big.

What's that on your arm?

Right there.

Yeah, who knows? My mom probably switched detergents again.

Okay.

Fingers crossed for you. I love you.

Love you.

And my hair.

And my skin.

Yeah. And your every fist.

Or this foot. Give me a smile.

Hey, where's Nora?

I haven't seen her.

Okay, wait. This? Yeah.

Wait.

You might need to fall.

What?

happy to see you here today you've grown up into such a beautiful young woman

what do you want you know what i want i want you to promise me that you're not

going to give me any more trouble not like last time i need to hear you say it

It wasn't so hard now, was it?

There you are.

I've been looking for you everywhere.

Jake's got places.

Well, you should go.

Iris hates a late start.

Nora!

Nothing happened.

Okay, we both know that's not true.

You have to tell someone. Who would I even tell?

I don't know. Maybe your mom or Miss Brooks? Like, that would make a

It might.

Why would this time be any different than all the others?

Nothing ever happens to people like him.

Okay, they disappear until enough time has passed that people don't even

remember why they were gone in the first place.

Just forget about it.

That's what I'm going to do.

But how can you let this go?

Because.

You're not the only one that needs the money.

Let's hear it for your Miss Starfighter contestant.

Brianna Popp.

Maddie Monroe.

Lauren Burke.

Nora Matthews.

Toes pointed.

Back straight.

Chins up.

And for God's sake.

She is, isn't she? Yeah.

I couldn't be more sure

You doing okay?

You don't look very good.

Yeah, I'm fine.

I just, I have this headache. I can't seem to say.

You sure? Yeah.

All right.

Ladies and gentlemen, moving on.

The next contestant, continuing on to the final round of competition is...

Nora Jane Matthews.

Oh,

congratulations, Nora.

All right, folks, the time has come.

The final name of the contestant continuing on in the hopes of

becoming Miss Teen Starfire 2025 is...

Lauren Allison Burke.

Looks like you may not be one of the top five after all.

I wonder what you're on to.

See you everyone tomorrow night where we will crowd our new Miss Teen Starfire.

It was so much fun. Oh, and the dresses were so beautiful, weren't they?

Honey, I'm so excited for you. Look at you. You look amazing.

Thank you.

Girl,

you totally played.

Sorry Jefferson had to bow, but he'll be here tomorrow.

Dude, how are you sweating? But your hands are, like, freezing.

Yeah, it was super cold in the auditorium.

But your mom gave me some medicine, so hopefully I'll feel a little better

Hey, folks, I know you're excited to congratulate everyone's favorite

but, uh...

I've got to borrow her for a quick sec.

She'll be back in a jiff.

Well, I think a final five appearance calls for some ice cream. Ray, I know I

can always count on you.

Actually, Mr. Burke, I'm not feeling so great right now.

I think I should just call my mom and have her come with me.

Oh, no. Do you want us to drop you off?

No, it's okay. You guys go. I just feel really, really tired.

But I should feel better tomorrow.

Are you sure?

Mm -hmm.

I'm going to text her and wait outside.

See you right in here.

Okay.

Okay.

I'll be right back.

Where are you going?

Seems like a minute ago that was us.

It does, doesn't it?

Are you ever worried about Nora around all these adult men?

Oh, no. Nora knows how to handle herself. I made sure of that.

But she shouldn't have to, should she?

What am I supposed to do?

Have her quit the circuit?

That is not an option.

So you're saying that this does happen?

I'm saying, how about you take care of your kid and I'll take care of mine?

Lauren? There you are.

I wanted to talk to you.

Make sure there wasn't any confusion over what you saw.

No confusion?

I know exactly what I saw.

What are you going to do about it?

Nora asked me not to say anything.

Well, Nora's a smart girl. The question is,

Are you?

Excuse us. Excuse us. Move. You're going to be okay. No, no. Move, move.

Oh, my God.

You're going to be okay. Do you need mom?

Wait, more, more, more.

Are you okay, honey?

Are you okay?

Honey,

it's going to be okay.

Use this. Thanks.

I just... I don't understand how this is happening.

She had a headache. I gave her some medicine. She went back to bed.

It's just a headache.

She's going to be okay.

What if she's not?

Ms. Gibbons?

I'm Dr. Mullen. I'm the attending physician on your daughter's case.

I just want to give you a quick update on what we know.

So based on Ray's age, symptoms, and how rapidly her case has progressed, as

well as the preliminary results of the spinal tap, we suspect she has

meningococcal meningitis, which is a type of bacterial meningitis, and a

bloodstream infection.

It's called invasive meningococcal disease, and while it's uncommon, it can

serious consequences.

We will be able to confirm once we get the final test results in the coming

days. But she was vaccinated.

I made sure of it.

According to her record, she was vaccinated for serogroups A, C, W, and

not B.

At this time, we cannot confirm what serogroup is responsible here.

How did I miss this? I'm a nurse.

A lot of teens aren't vaccinated against meningitis B, but there are vaccines

that can help, and not all parents know to ask about them.

So do we know how this happened to her? There are so many possibilities.

The bacteria can live in the back of the nose and throat and can spread through

respiratory droplets.

16 to 23 -year -olds tend to be one of the most affected groups simply by the

nature of their activities.

Like what kind of activities?

Sharing food, drinks, utensils, kissing, just generally being in close contact

with one another.

Are you saying this is like her own fault?

No. No, honey, nobody's saying that.

So what do we do next? What's the plan? If her condition continues to worsen...

We may need to put her into a medically induced coma to make it easier to treat

her and to ensure that she gets the rest that her body needs.

Currently, we have her on intravenous antibiotics in the hopes that it helps

fight the infection.

That's good, though, right?

The medicine will make her better.

That's what we're hoping for, sweetie.

Ms. Gibbons, I need you to understand how incredibly sick Ray is.

One in ten people who contract meningitis die despite treatment,

within 24 hours.

And even if she survives, there is a chance that she will have permanent

complications.

We're going to do everything we can for Ray, but I just want you to be fully

aware of all the possible outcomes.

Is there anything more that we should be doing?

We've alerted the health department, and they'll reach out to the school to do

contact tracing. That will help determine who may have been in close

with Ray and need antibiotics to help prevent any additional cases.

Expect a call from them.

In the meantime, make a list of anyone Ray's come into close contact with in

last week or so.

I'd recommend that both you and she start a precautionary course of

immediately.

And if she has not been vaccinated, consider speaking with her pediatrician

about it.

Of course.

I'll give you an update as soon as I have one, okay?

And again, I'm so very sorry.

Thank you so much for squeezing us in today.

And I'll book the appointment for the next dose before we leave.

Thanks.

Mom?

What's that, honey?

Is there really a chance that Rhea could die?

The doctors are going to do everything that they can to make sure that doesn't

happen, okay?

Can I come in?

Close the door.

I assume you're here to discuss the unfortunate incident of last night.

I guess that's one way to put it.

I just thought you'd want to notify the other contestants.

Actually, anybody in attendance, I guess, should be made aware of the

My honor is what I want to do that.

Are we talking about the same thing?

I don't know, are we?

What are you talking about?

Well... I guess you first.

Last night, I happened upon Lauren and one of our judges together.

And seeing how Lauren is an inexperienced young woman, I can see how

his offer of advice as an inappropriate advance.

I have no doubt with Lauren's propensity to exaggerate. Okay, just wait a

minute. She has probably already blown the entire situation completely out of

proportion, which is why I feel it best and in her best interest that she

withdraw from the pageant.

In exchange for agreeing to never discuss the event, the pageant...

We'll offer Lauren a Miss Congeniality scholarship in the amount of $10 ,000.

But Lauren hasn't done anything wrong. Why should she have to quit?

Because I'm not going to allow some rat who was never going to win anyway

ruin it for everyone else.

So I suggest you get down from your high horse and take my incredibly generous

offer so we can all... Get on with our lives.

I

can't

wait to show this to the police.

I wouldn't do that if I were you.

Why is that?

Because. If you decide to involve the authorities.

I will have no choice but to issue a statement announcing that Lauren was

disqualified when it came to my knowledge that she attempted to

patent employee.

What the hell are you talking about?

Lauren threatened to go public with this photo unless

Drew used his influence with the judges to obtain a better position.

No one will ever believe this.

Maybe not.

If it's just his word against hers.

But luckily, I have several witnesses with sworn affidavits that say she

confided her plan in them.

Just think what people will say.

And I've even heard that some colleges have been known to rescind acceptances

for moral transgression.

Now, would you like to borrow my pen?

I don't know how you live with yourself.

Starfire is my legacy. I will protect it at all costs.

The clock is ticking on that offer.

I hate to ask this, but is there even the tiniest shred of truth to any of

Iris is saying? Mom, I swear.

Brianna made that picture and hung it in the dressing room to try to get me to

quit. We need to know everything that has gone on.

And I mean everything, please.

There's a lot.

And it's kind of hard to explain.

It's like they're manipulating you all the time.

They're always telling you the other girls are talking about you behind your

back. Or the coaches are calling you stupid or lazy.

Wait, they're what?

The truth is, this kind of stuff, it does happen.

Why didn't you tell me any of this?

Because I knew you'd make me quit.

I just, I couldn't.

I'd already worked so hard and I'd sacrificed so much.

I'd just walk away from my only shot at being able to afford Vanderton.

Baby, I'm sorry you felt so much pressure.

So, what do we do?

I think.

If Ray can fight, so can I.

We're here.

All right, you ready?

Never say die.

Take care of him.

Excuse me.

What, Ryan?

What the hell are you doing here?

Isn't it obvious?

Lauren's a finalist.

She's here to compete.

You're embarrassing yourself.

I'm not embarrassed.

Are you embarrassed?

No. No, I think the only one that should be embarrassed is you, who can't seem

to wipe his own ass without his grandmother's permission.

You're making a scene.

Not yet, but I will.

And those little reporters over there are going to get a front row seat.

Excuse us.

As the kids would say, that's less.

Let's hear it one more time for Ms. Brianna Cox.

Thanks.

Congratulations, Brianna.

Now for the final portion of our talent competition, we have a dramatic

recitation. Put your hands together for Ms. Lauren Burke.

I'd like to dedicate my performance tonight to my friend Ray.

It was in the ICU, fighting for her life with meningitis B.

And if that's the case,

maybe asking why I'm here, participating in this, for being honest, pretty

superficial event.

If you knew me, you'd know none of this is my vibe.

The only reason I entered Starfire in the first place was because I needed

for college.

Then I just got so sucked into it.

I was basically obsessed.

It was only when Ray got sick that I remembered that I was trying to win so

I could become a doctor and help people.

So that's why I'm here.

It's for you.

To share Ray's story and hope it will inspire parents to check their teen's

vaccination records and talk to their doctors.

And now, Showtime.

Originally, I was going to recite The Raven.

But then I thought, does anyone really need to hear the alcoholic ramblings of

man who's obsessed with his ex and can't seem to take the hint?

So instead, I will be reciting The Things We Dare Not Tell by Henry Lawson.

Because no one should have to suffer in silence.

The fields are fair in autumn yet, and the sun's still shining there.

So we bow our heads in brood and fret because of the mask we wear.

For we nod and smile a social while and say we're doing well.

We break our hearts for the things we must not tell.

We fight it down, or we bear it bravely well.

But the best of us die of a broken heart for the things we cannot tell.

That

was

amazing.

My mom made me sign that thing.

I know.

How's Ray?

Her fever's coming down, but she's still super sick.

We just wait to see if the medicine works.

I'm taking antibiotics.

Yeah, um, we all got a text about it.

My mom made an appointment for me.

Good.

What happens now?

I think it's the judge's question.

Let me double check.

Hey, Austin.

You got a program?

Starfire is truly a one -of -a -kind experience, and I could not be more

grateful for the time that we've spent together.

But now, we are entering the final portion of tonight's evening, the all

-important judge's questions.

I'd like to invite Maddie up to the microphone first.

Maddie's question will be coming from the esteemed Gwendolyn Allen.

Ms. Monroe, who is your role model?

Mrs. Brooks.

Short, sweet, and to the point.

Up next, we have Ms. Lauren Burke.

Lauren's question will be coming from Starfire's most revered and longest

-serving judge, Mr. Roger Hammond.

Ms. Burke, why should you win?

I shouldn't.

And what's more, I don't want to.

I don't want to be part of an organization that pits us against each

their own entertainment, who calls us fat and lazy and makes us so anxious

we literally pull our own hair out, who, upon learning there were criminals in

their midst, chose to protect the predators rather than the children they

upon. Those are not the values I was raised with, and they are not the values

represent.

Life is too short to compromise yourself with some cash in the crowd.

And that is why I respectfully withdraw from the Mythstar Fire Project.

Iris, Brooke.

I know for a moment this was up to Glasgow.

We've got a few questions we'd like to ask you.

Oh, my God. You guys are, like, the cutest ever.

I know, right?

I just hate that you couldn't be there.

Oh, yeah. Tell me about it. Even after I planned the whole thing.

But the after party here was killer?

Were you so surprised?

Yeah, like, beyond. I can't believe Dylan planned the whole thing.

Yeah, it's like he likes you or something.

So,

have they told you when you're going to get to go home?

They've been holding you hostage here for weeks. Yeah, hopefully next week.

Will you be able to go back to school?

No, I'll just finish from home.

And what about cosmetology school?

Are you still going to be able to cut hair without, you know... Half my hand?

Yeah, I guess. I'll just have to learn to use scissors with

three fingers.

I'll figure it out.

Hi. Hey.

I stopped by Lauren's house.

And her mom said she was here. I hope it's okay. I came by. Yeah, of course.

more the merrier. Pull up some beds.

These are for you. Oh, thank you. These are gorgeous.

So, how are you doing?

So much better.

I'll have to do some physical therapy, and I lost some hearing in my right ear.

And, you know, obviously.

But the doctor said it could have been a lot worse.

I guess some people experience, like...

Brain damage, kidney failure, even, like, lose a leg.

Really? You got vaccinated, right? Yeah.

My mom and I talked to my doctor and decided I should get it.

Does my heart seem good to know that I could be a cautionary tale for you two?

No, seriously, I didn't know anything about meningitis before all of this.

Let alone that there are vaccines for it.

Well, you're doing amazing for someone who just lost two fingers.

And how are you doing?

You know, with everything.

Okay.

Yeah. My mom and I started therapy.

Wow. How's that going?

It's intense.

But good, you know.

That's awesome.

Yeah.

I should probably tell you why I'm here.

Other than, of course, to make sure that you're okay.

Obviously.

I'm sure you heard. They did an investigation into Starfire and found a

impropriety. Like, a lot.

Shocker. And rather than deal with, like, a million civil suits, Starfire's

decided to settle with everyone.

And I figured, after all you did, it's only fair you get half of mine.

Wow.

My first impulse was to tear it up.

And what was your second impulse?

I thought about when I first decided to do the pageant, and we talked about what

I might gain from the experience.

Oh, yeah.

Don't remind me. But that's the thing.

I gained so much.

Just not in the ways that we thought I would be.

So, when you think about it, I kind of won.

Yeah.

And I did.

And you know what I said I would use the money for if I won.

Vanderton.

Vanderton.

They're going to Vanderton.

They're going to Vanderton. Vanderton!

Please welcome Ms. Lauren Burke.

First of all, I want to thank you for letting me come talk today. For anyone

doesn't know me, my name is Lauren Burke.

And I'm freshman pre -med, and if everything goes according to plan,

pediatrician. Professor Holsey told me about the work you all do in terms of

student health awareness and thought the app I created might be a helpful tool

for you to use.

About a year ago, my best friend almost died from meningitis B.

And watching her go through that, it made me realize that people our age are

focused on the future.

that we sometimes forget how to keep ourselves healthy today.

So that is where HealthyBridge .org comes in.

HealthyBridge .org tells you exactly what health services you may need and

you can find them. It makes sure you can get accurate information and know the

right questions to ask so you can make informed decisions about your mental and

your physical health.

So nothing and no one falls through the cracks.

Any questions?