(BLACKOUT. THOMAS lies in the faint darkness.)
(LIGHT shines on CARLOS, who lights a cigarette.)
CARLOS You're in a real mess now, eh pal?
(THOMAS doesn't respond.)
CARLOS You know... if you don't return to reality...
THOMAS What, I'm going to die in real life?
CARLOS I'm not sure. But life is going to be different.
(THREE WOMEN appear upstage.)
WOMAN 1 The body can only withstand being in a catatonic state for so long.
WOMAN 2 Muscles atrophy with time. Organs fail.
WOMAN 3 It only becomes harder and harder to support you in the real world as your body rots away...
THOMAS So what? Screw them all! I'd rather die then go back to any of them!
CARLOS Thomas...
THOMAS (pointing.) You too. I trusted you. You were my friend, and you outed me to everybody I know.
CARLOS Hey, I was --
THOMAS Get out. This is my mind. Get. Out.