Scene 1 – Decision in the Classroom
The teacher announces that the assignment must be turned in within two weeks.
Teacher:
— "You can meet outside class hours. It's a group project, not a classroom one."
Diego (grumbling):
— "Great. As if suffering here isn't enough, now I'll have to see you all on my day off."
Rafaela:
— "Oh, stop being dramatic. It might even be fun."
Mateus:
— "Doubt it."
Claws:
— "Then let's decide now. Whose house?"
Silence. Everyone avoids eye contact.
Lucas (raising his hand):
— "You can come to mine. I've got space, and my mom doesn't mind."
---
Scene 2 – Walk to Lucas's House
By late afternoon, they walk together down the street.
Heavy backpacks, the sun setting, each with their own demeanor.
Diego (on his phone):
— "Can someone explain why we're not just copying from the internet?"
Claws:
— "Because the point is to think for ourselves."
Diego:
— "What a terrible idea."
Rafaela (turning to Isa):
— "Do you live far from here?"
Isa (quietly):
— "No… about three streets past the school."
Rafaela (smiling):
— "Then one day I'll drop by so we can draw together."
Isa's eyes widen in surprise, but she doesn't reply.
---
Scene 3 – Lucas's House
Lucas's mom greets them with juice and cookies.
Lucas's Mom:
— "Welcome! Make a mess if you need to, but don't wreck the house, okay?"
Diego (laughing):
— "No promises."
They settle into the living room. Notebooks and books spread across the coffee table.
---
Scene 4 – Trying to Work
Claws:
— "Alright, let's organize. Topic: citizenship in daily life. We need practical examples."
Mateus:
— "Easy. Just say no one respects the lunch line."
Diego:
— "Even better: say the teachers treat us like robots."
Rafaela:
— "Guys, it has to be constructive, not just complaining."
Claws:
— "I agree. We need to show solutions too."
Diego:
— "Oh, great. He's turned into a politician now."
Claws:
— "Diego, if you're not going to help, just stay quiet."
Diego:
— "Relax, general. I'm just warming up."
Isa raises her hand timidly.
Isa:
— "I… thought of something."
Everyone looks at her.
Isa:
— "We could talk about bullying. It's something we've all seen. If we show how small actions make a difference, that's already citizenship."
Silence. The group processes her idea.
Lucas:
— "I like it. It's real, close to all of us."
Rafaela:
— "We could even illustrate it with everyday situations."
Mateus (arms crossed):
— "Hm… not bad."
Diego (raising an eyebrow):
— "Who'd have thought… the quiet one saved the day."
Isa lowers her head, but can't hide a faint smile.
---
Scene 5 – Closing the Meeting
After hours of discussion, they have a draft ready.
Rafaela shows a few quick sketches. Lucas organizes the notes. Claws reviews.
Mateus:
— "Can't believe this is actually working."
Diego:
— "Yeah… but don't get used to it. I still think this group's a terrible idea."
Claws (with a crooked smile):
— "Maybe. But it'll be fun."
Lucas's mom appears at the door.
Lucas's Mom:
— "It's already dark, kids. Pack up and take care on your way home."
The group says their goodbyes. Out on the street, under the lamplight, they walk side by side.
They don't look like friends yet — but something different is starting to grow.
End of Chapter 4.