(Dawn's Principal's office)

BUFFY: You lied to me?

DAWN: Didn't ... lie ... e-exactly.

BUFFY: Really. What about all the times I asked you how school was and you said fine?

DAWN: Well, it was! (softly) You didn't ask if I was in it when it was fine.

BUFFY: I-I don't know what to say. I-I'm sure you're aware that the past few months, you know, have been kind of hard for Dawn. Not that I'm saying that's an excuse.

PRINCIPAL: I understand. Your mother was a lovely woman and we'll all miss her very much. I know how difficult it must be.

BUFFY: It is. Especially for Dawn. She-she's just a kid.

PRINCIPAL: Well ... I think we both know that Dawn is a lot more than just a kid.

(Dawn looks alarmed, looks over at Buffy, who returns the look.)

PRINCIPAL: She's a talented young girl ... with a sharp mind ... (to Dawn) when she puts the effort in.

BUFFY: Look. I realize that there's been some ball-dropping, but I'm sure this will all-

PRINCIPAL: Dawn, why don't you wait outside for a few minutes?

(Dawn looks very scared. She looks over at Buffy, who gives her a nod. Dawn gets up and leaves. Buffy watches her go with a sigh. The principal gives Buffy a stern look. )

• Buffy & Dawn

written by: Rebecca Kirshner; Once again, I'm typing these up myself as transcripts are scarce.... Full transcript at:
http://www.studiesinwords.de/97toughlove.html