Bouncy

Just the Truth - A Short Dialogue

Added 2022-01-14 02:35:58 +0000 UTC

Based on the commission, "Sloan x MC dialogue."

It’s a cozy Friday night—Dr. Sloan is sitting on the couch, the MC’s head in her lap. She idly combs her fingers through the MC’s hair, the two of them watching a cooking show on Food Network.

MC: How come you never talk about your family?

Dr. Sloan: Where did this come from?

MC: Well, we’ve been together for a while. And…you know. Isn’t it something couples talk about? Their families?

Dr. Sloan: Hmm.

A long silence.

MC: So…a touchy subject, then.

Dr. Sloan: You said it, not me.

Another long silence. The show goes on commercial break.

MC: …I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to—I don’t know. Make light of something.

Dr. Sloan sighs.

Dr. Sloan: There’s not much to talk about, really. They’re Italian. Old-fashioned. Want to see me married, want to see me settled. The sooner I pop out some grandchildren for them, the better. (scoffs) Which they know isn’t going to happen, so that always sours holidays.

MC: You mean…?

Dr. Sloan: They’ve never approved of the way I’ve lived my life.

MC: …

Dr. Sloan: I can feel your pity—emanating. It’s not necessary.

MC: …It’s not pity. Just…I can’t imagine someone not being proud of who you became. Who you are.

Dr. Sloan: …

MC: You’re one of the best attendings at one of the best hospitals in the country. You take no prisoners, you—you inspire awe among your residents. You’re devoted, and loyal, and brilliant and…I wish I could be like you. Independent, like you. It’s their loss—your parents’, I mean. It’s their loss, if they can’t see you the way they should see you. You’re luminous.

The cooking show resumes. Dr. Sloan remains silent. Then,

Dr. Sloan (softly): Careful, MC. Those are dangerous words.

MC: It’s just the truth.

Dr. Sloan looks down at the MC. There’s pain in her gaze, and longing.

Dr. Sloan: You really are…

She trails off. The MC presses Dr. Sloan’s fingertips to their lips.