Scene:
[Art room in a high school after school. Basil, a praised student artist is sitting on a stool waiting for a friend when an acquaintance of his walks in.]
Henry
Basil, I just heard the news.
Basil
[Turns around and sighs in annoyance] What are you talking about?
Henry
Well that you're almost done with a painting of a very handsome male student, and I'm going to buy the painting.
Basil
[Puts face in hand] Dorian is my muse, you can't just buy one of the paintings. This is going to be my masterpiece, and you can't have it. Only the inspiration may keep the painting.
Henry
May I see how it is coming out?
Basil
[Considers this request for a moment] I suppose, but only when Dorian enters.
Henry
Perfect, and then maybe I can convince him to give me the painting.
Basil
You know you're a real jerk, Harry.
Henry
[Not paying attention] What were you saying? What is this Dorian like anyways?
Basil
Well, he's very charming, and it would be very disappointing if you had any influence on him. Because right now he's… perfect.
Henry
Are you in love with him or something?
Basil
[Blunt] Yes, but I'm sure everyone is in love with him because he's flawless. You'll understand once you meet him.
Henry
No one is that perfect
[The door to the art room opens, and Dorian Gray enters]
Dorian
Basil, so sorry if I'm late. I lost track of time modeling for photos in the photography club.
Basil
No… no you're right on time. Sit down.
(Dorian sits)
Henry
So Dorian what's your deal?
Dorian
My deal?
Henry
Yes, Basil tells me that you are one of the most flawless people he has ever met. Exciting, charming, handsome, and intelligent. What do you say to this?
Dorian
I say this is false. I am nothing but an average student like you two. I'm quite normal.
Henry
Ah, I disagree.
(Dorian intrigued) Dorian
And why is that, Henry?
(Henry walks behind Basil and looks at the painting) Henry
Because this painting is flawless. But enough about you let's talk more of me. Have you dated, Dorian?
Dorian
No I haven't dated anyone yet.
Henry
Oh it's dreadful. Unless you find the right woman. You see woman are clingy if you date them, they want to talk, and have intimate connections. And me being a desirable man have been tracked down by a many women, but I am in a relationship with one who is not tying me down. So if I want to go out and explore others she doesn't care.
Dorian
Fascinating!
Basil
Please don't fill his head with ideas, Henry.
Dorian
No, Basil. Henry is quite exciting. I am exposed to the most boring people when I go home, but you have such an extravagant personality.
Henry
I try my best. Dorian I have just come up with a wonderful idea, we go see the theatre some night.
Dorian
I would love to go to the theatre with you Henry.
Henry
It's settled then, would you join us Basil?
Basil
I don't think I can… do anything ever again with you Henry.
Henry
Such a drama queen
Basil
I've completed it, I believe.
(Dorian moves from his seat) Dorian
May I see?
(Basil motions him over) Basil
Come take a look, see if you like it.
(Dorian walks over and looks at the painting) Dorian
This painting is flawless, Basil. You've outdone yourself.
Basil
You were my inspiration.
Henry
How much?
Basil
Excuse me?
Henry
I would like to buy this painting from you, Basil.
Basil
I'm sorry it's not for sale. The painting belongs to Dorian for inspiring me to paint my best work.
(Dorian steps closer to observe the work) Dorian
I wish I could look as this painting for eternity. While this painting stays young, I will grow older and older. If only we could switch places.
Basil
But your eternal youth is forever encaptured in this painting.
Dorian (looks at Basil melochlically, then at his watch)
Oh! I must leave, you will send this painting to me when you have finished coating it?
Basil
Of course, goodbye Dorian.