JACK/JENNIFER LIVING ROOM/PORCH. JACK AND JENNIFER WALK UP TO THE FRONT DOOR. JACK IS CARRYING A SMALL SUITCASE. JACK SETS THE SUITCASE ASIDE AND UNLOCKS AND OPENS THE DOOR. JENNIFER BEGINS TO WALK INTO THE HOUSE, BUT JACK RAISES HIS HAND.

JENNIFER: (CONFUSED) What? What is it, Jack?

JACK: Allow me...

JACK PICKS HER UP AND CARRIES HER OVER THE THRESHOLD. JENNIFER LOOKS AROUND THE LIVING ROOM, AWESTRUCK.

THE LIVING ROOM IS FILLED WITH FLOWERS OF ALL KINDS: DELPHINIUM, ROSES, ORCHIDS, TULIPS, CHRYSANTHEMUMS, VIOLETS, CARNATIONS, AND MORE. JACK CARRIES JENNIFER TO THE COUCH AND SETS HER DOWN. THE COUCH IS MADE UP LIKE A BED, WITH SEVERAL BLANKETS AND PILLOWS. JACK GOES TO THE FRONT DOOR, BRINGS IN THE SUITCASE, AND CLOSES THE DOOR. HE RETURNS TO THE COUCH AND SITS DOWN NEXT TO JENNIFER.

JACK: Yes, well... (LOOKING AROUND) I'm glad you like it. You had so many flowers in your hospital room, I was afraid that returning to a house devoid of any flora might send you into shock.

JENNIFER: (LAUGHING) Well, there's definitely no danger of that... This is wonderful, Jack. Thank you.

JACK: You're welcome. (BEAT) Now, let me show you what I've set up here. I've arranged for the couch to be your "base of operations," so to speak, while you recover. You'll be able to stay right here and rest, but still be in the swing of things.

JENNIFER: Okay... (MOTIONING TOWARD SEVERAL OBJECTS ON THE COFFEE TABLE) So, tell me what all this stuff is for...

JACK: With pleasure. (PICKING UP ONE DEVICE) First, the intercom. I bought the more advanced model. There are receivers set up in our bedroom, the guest bedroom, and in the kitchen. (INDICATING A SWITCH ON THE INTERCOM) This switch lets you choose which one you are listening or talking to.

JACK HANDS HER THE INTERCOM, AND SHE PLAYS WITH THE SWITCH BRIEFLY. JACK PICKS UP A CORDLESS PHONE AND HANDS IT TO JENNIFER.

JENNIFER: Jack, I'm not an invalid...

JACK: I know that, but I have strict orders from your doctor. He said to make sure you get plenty of rest, and to keep you from over-exerting yourself.

JENNIFER: I know, but...

JACK: And I received the same instructions from your father. And father does know best...

JENNIFER: (SMILING) All right, all right.

JACK: (MOTIONING TO A TRAY ON THE COFFEE TABLE) Now, here we have various drinks: water, soda, juice... And we also have some cheese and crackers for you to snack on.

JENNIFER: What, no champagne and paté?

JACK: (SLIGHTLY FLUSTERED) Well, I... Champagne we can't do, not while you're on medication. I'll get you some paté...

JENNIFER: (LAUGHING) Jack, I was kidding.

JACK: (RELIEVED) Oh. Okay. (BEAT) Last, but not least... (PICKING UP A SMALL CRYSTAL BELL) Here we have your bell.

JACK HANDS JENNIFER THE BELL.

JENNIFER: (OVERWHELMED) Jack, this is all so wonderful... I don't know what to say. I can't believe you did all of this for me.

JACK: I would do anything for you.

JENNIFER: (SMILING) Anything?

JACK: (CAUTIOUSLY) Well, anything within the limits of the law... And maybe a few things outside the limits...

JENNIFER BEGINS TO RING THE BELL, BUT JACK STOPS HER.

JACK STANDS UP AND WALKS TO THE KITCHEN DOOR. WHEN HE REACHES THE DOOR, HE TURNS AND NODS TO JENNIFER, WHO RINGS THE BELL. JACK JOGS UP QUICKLY AND KNEELS NEXT TO HER.

JENNIFER: Yes, there's something I need from you.

JACK: What is it?

JENNIFER GRABS JACK'S LAPEL AND SLOWLY PULLS HIM CLOSER.

JENNIFER KISSES JACK PASSIONATELY. HE RECIPROCATES BRIEFLY, THEN SLOWLY PULLS AWAY.

JENNIFER: What I need is you. I feel just fine.

JACK: (SMILING) I'm sure you do. But, there's one more surprise I need to show you.

HOLD ON JENNIFER'S CURIOUS SMILE.

CUT TO: ALAMAIN LIVING ROOM/FOYER. LAWRENCE IS SITTING ON THE SOFA READING A NEWSPAPER. THE DOORBELL RINGS AND LAWRENCE LOOKS UP FROM HIS PAPER.

LAWRENCE PUTS THE NEWSPAPER DOWN AND WALKS TO THE DOOR. HE OPENS IT AND WE SEE JOHN STANDING THERE. JOHN CASUALLY WALKS PAST LAWRENCE AND INTO THE LIVING ROOM.

JOHN: Never. (BEAT) Forgotten your brother already Lawrence?

LAWRENCE FOLLOWS JOHN INTO THE LIVING ROOM AND WALKS OVER TO THE BAR. LAWRENCE POURS HIMSELF A GLASS OF WATER.

JOHN: You know what they say about wishes fulfilled?

LAWRENCE: While I sometimes find our battle of wits entertaining, I am not in the mood. Shall we get to the point? What can I do for you?

JOHN: I'm looking for some answers.

LAWRENCE: What kind of answers? (HE SITS DOWN ON THE SOFA)

JOHN: About my past.

LAWRENCE: Really? It was my understanding that you went to Switzerland to see your old nemesis, Danielle. She must have given you answers.

JOHN PICKS UP A VASE AND ADMIRES IT.

LAWRENCE STANDS UP AND GRABS THE VASE FROM JOHN.

HOLD ON JOHN'S SURPRISE.

CUT TO: WINGS. DOUG STANDS NEAR THE STAGE, TALKING WITH THE CONSTRUCTION FOREMAN, SID. THE CLUB IS FULL OF PEOPLE, ALL SEEMINGLY IN A FLURRY OF ACTIVITY.

DOUG: Point taken. I'll think on it, and come up with something by tonight (ROLLS EYES HEAVENWARD) somehow!

DOUG'S STAGE MANAGER, FRAN, JOINS DOUG AND SID.

FRAN IS INTERRUPTED BY 4 CHORUS GIRLS, ALL DRESSED IN STUNNING BLACK DRESSES.

FRAN: Black? BLACK?? Nobody told me they were wearing black! Now I have to change the lighting for their number...

DOUG: The costumes are fine, ladies... the designer has outdone herself again...

SID: (CONSULTING SCHEDULES AND TIME TABLES) By tonight should be fine, I'll have to check with the electrician and make sure that's soon enough...

JULIE ENTERS THE CLUB, WALKS THROUGH THE CHAOS, AND SLIPS THROUGH THE GROWING CROWD AROUND DOUG. SHE GREETS HIM WITH A KISS.

DOUG: More fiends than fans, Fair Lady, each one asking me for answers, when I'm not even sure I remember the questions...

MARTY APPROACHES WITH A STACK OF SHEET MUSIC.

FRAN: Let me think, if I change to a blue cell, that should solve the current dilemma... Doug, what do you think of blue/blue-lavender shading?

GIRL 2: So we can tell the designer that this is ok? What about the skirt length?

AS THE QUESTIONS FLY AT DOUG, HE TAKES A STEP BACKWARDS, DRAMATICALLY GAZES HEAVENWARD, AND RAISES HIS HANDS AS IF IN SUPPLICATION. JULIE LAUGHS DELIGHTEDLY.

DOUG: Muses? Hmmm... Well, Marty, I guess that makes you... ahh, Euterpe, the muse of music?

MARTY: Euterpe? I hope not, I look terrible in a toga... Euterpe indeed.

DOUG: Indeed. (BEAT) Indeed!

DOUG SUDDENLY LETS OUT A LOUD WHOOP AND GRABS JULIE, TWIRLING HER AROUND AND KISSING HER.

OUT ON DOUG'S ELATION.

WINGS. DOUG, JULIE, MARTY, SID, FRAN AND THE "CHORUS GIRLS." IN PROGRESS.

DOUG: Practically... if Marty can be considered an instrument of the divine...

MARTY: I'm not sure I like that...

DOUG: I finally know what I'm calling this club! I've been struggling with this for weeks!

SID: And I've been struggling with your struggle. What's it to be, Doug?

DOUG: Well, Doug's Place was out, for obvious reasons. I toyed with calling it Yeibichei after the leader of the dancers in the Night Way ceremony, but I thought that might be perceived as sacrilegious...

SID: Yeibichei? Glad I don't have to explain that to the electrician...

DOUG: I even, in desperation, considered calling it the World Beat Club, but that seemed so... quotidian. I thought up, and threw out dozens of names...

JULIE: So that was what you were mumbling about in the shower this morning...

THE CHORUS GIRLS GIGGLE AT THIS.

JULIE: What is perfect? Tell us!

DOUG: Euterpe! Euterpe is perfect. The club will be named after the Greek muse of Music.

FRAN: That's pretty ambitious...

DOUG: I suppose, but I like to think big. I want this club to be like Parnassus, a place where poets and musicians can come and perform, inspire and be inspired. A place where the muses can dwell in the dark corners and bestow their magic where they may...

HOLD ON JULIE'S SMILE AT DOUG'S POETIC WAXING.

CUT TO: ALAMAIN LIVING ROOM. LAWRENCE IS WALKING TOWARDS HIS CHAIR. JOHN FOLLOWS. IN PROGRESS.

LAWRENCE: (SITTING DOWN) Yes, I did.

JOHN: Then you were spying on me.

LAWRENCE: No, I'm just well-informed. I am in charge of the estate. I know when people come and go.

JOHN: (UNCONVINCED) Yeah, right. (MOTIONING TOWARD THE SOFA) May I?

LAWRENCE: (WITH MOCK POLITENESS) Certainly.

JOHN: (SITTING DOWN) Well, if you're so well-informed, as you put it, then you should be able to give me some answers.

LAWRENCE: Still having some memory problems, are we?

JOHN LOOKS AT LAWRENCE AND COCKS AN EYEBROW, BUT SAYS NOTHING.

JOHN: No. Should I? Is there something I should have found in Europe?

LAWRENCE: I don't...

JOHN: (INTERRUPTING) Perhaps you'd like to tell me about it, Lawrence...

NICHOLAS COMES DOWN THE STAIRS, FOLLOWED BY VIVIAN. NICHOLAS SMILES WHEN HE SEES JOHN.

VIVIAN AND NICHOLAS ENTER THE ROOM. LAWRENCE IS SURPRISED TO SEE VIVIAN, BUT COVERS.

JOHN: (TURNING TO NICHOLAS) Hey, Nikki! (PATTING THE SOFA) Have a seat! (BEAT) Hello, Vivian.

VIVIAN: John... (NODDING TO LAWRENCE) Lawrence...

LAWRENCE: Decided to come downstairs for a little visit, Vivian?

VIVIAN: I saw John's car from the att... upstairs window and was sure you'd want me here. Nikki let me... helped me... escorted me... downstairs...

JOHN SILENTLY NOTES THE EXCHANGE. NICHOLAS WATCHES VIVIAN AND LAWRENCE WITH GROWING CONCERN AND SITS DOWN NEXT TO JOHN AND TRIES TO BREAK THE TENSION.

JOHN: You bet! I gave you the okay before, remember?

NICHOLAS: Oh, yeah.

VIVIAN SITS DOWN NEXT TO NICHOLAS.

NICHOLAS: (HESITANT) It's... Everything's fine. Everything's great.

JOHN, NOTICING NICHOLAS' NERVOUSNESS, LOOKS SUSPICIOUSLY AT LAWRENCE. LAWRENCE GLARES AT JOHN.

NICHOLAS: Yeah, I like it a lot.

JOHN: Me, too!

NICHOLAS: (BECOMING MORE EXCITED, HAPPY TO BE TALKING ABOUT SOMETHING ELSE) Did you watch the World Series? It was great! Joe Carter knocks in a three-run homer in the bottom of the ninth to win it... It was really cool!

JOHN: Well... Sad to say, I missed it.

NICHOLAS: That's too bad.

JOHN: It sounds like you remember it pretty well. Why don't you tell me all about it?

NICHOLAS: (SMILING) Sure!

LAWRENCE SCOWLS, OBVIOUSLY UPSET ABOUT JOHN'S EASY RAPPORT WITH NICHOLAS.

LAWRENCE: (TERSELY) I'm afraid your story will have to wait for another time, Nikki. I'm sure John has a lot of work to do. He probably has very little time for his own son, let alone someone else's.

JOHN: No need for you to worry about Brady, Lawrence. I take care of my own.

THE TENSION IS OBVIOUS, AS JOHN AND LAWRENCE SQUARE OFF. VIVIAN WATCHES, INTRIGUED. HOLD ON VIVIAN.

CUT TO: JACK/JENNIFER LIVING ROOM. JACK AND JENNIFER, IN PROGRESS.

JACK: Your father and I have been working on something special the past few days. We'd talked about it earlier, but once you woke up we knew it was ok to go ahead with it.

JENNIFER: (GESTURES AROUND THE ROOM) I can't believe you found the time to do all this, never mind another surprise. Every time I've opened my eyes, you've been right next to me.

JACK: I have my ways, don't you worry.

JENNIFER: Don't keep me in suspense any longer! What's my surprise? (BEAT) And where's Abby? I thought she'd be here with Jo.

JACK: The surprise has to do with the Child, as a matter of fact.

JENNIFER: What do you mean?

JACK: I've been thinking that you might not be strong enough to take care of her for some time.

JENNIFER: I'm fine, Jack.

JACK: (KISSING JENNIFER'S HAND) I know you're fine. And you're going to be 100 percent before you know it. But for now you have to take it easy and I don't want you to worry about the Child.

JENNIFER: I never worry when Abby is with you or the family.

JACK: Well, that's the thing. I have to go back to work sometime and Jo's busy with her studies. And it occurred to me that you might want to go back to work. I talked it over with your father and we decided to hire a nanny.

JENNIFER: A nanny? I don't like that idea one bit. I don't want some stranger raising our daughter. How do you know if this person is reliable?

JACK: This person is the tops, the absolute best in her field. You wouldn't believe the references she has. I think you'll make an exception in her case.

OUT ON JENNIFER'S INTRIGUE.

EUTERPE (FORMERLY WINGS). THERE IS GENERAL CONFUSION AS WORKMEN AND PERFORMERS ALIKE BUSTLE ABOUT. IN A CORNER, MARTY SITS SIPPING A SODA WATER. JULIE JOINS HIM.

MARTY: I sure hope so. Everyone's been working hard. Especially Doug.

JULIE: I've noticed. He's really thrown himself into this production.

MARTY: Doesn't he always? But it's all going to be worth it. Just wait till you see some of the numbers he has planned.

JULIE: How have the rehearsals been? Everyone doing all right?

MARTY: The rehearsals have gone like a dream. We're gonna pull this one off in style.

DOUG COMES RUSHING IN AND KISSES JULIE PASSIONATELY.

JULIE: I can tell.

DOUG: Everything's finally set... Euterpe is the club's name, the painters are working on the new sign right now.

JULIE: (IMPATIENTLY) Wonderful, but we really do need to get going darling. We don't want to be late.

DOUG: Marty, could you and Dave manage to hold down the fort? Rope in Eve and Ian if you need to... let them earn their keep.

MARTY: No problem.

DOUG: Oh, and there are some more people scheduled to come in and rehearse later, but I should be back in time...

JULIE: Doug!

JULIE BEGINS TO HALF DRAG A MOCK-STRUGGLING DOUG OUT THE DOOR AS MARTY LOOKS ON, LAUGHING.

CUT TO: ALAMAIN LIVING ROOM. LAWRENCE IS SEATED IN HIS CHAIR. JOHN, NICHOLAS, AND VIVIAN ARE ON THE SOFA. IN PROGRESS.

JOHN: That's a fact.

LAWRENCE: I guess paternal instinct is one thing we have in common. I would never let any harm come to my son... nor would I let anyone do anything to interfere with our relationship.

JOHN: I'm sure you wouldn't. Not that I can imagine anyone challenging you or your family... at least, not without just cause.

LAWRENCE: And just what is that supposed to mean?

JOHN: Nothing.

LAWRENCE: Is that supposed to be some sort of a threat, John?

JOHN: You can take it any way you like.

LAWRENCE: I don't take kindly to threats, no matter who makes them...

NICHOLAS: (FRIGHTENED) Come on, you guys...

VIVIAN: Lawrence, John... This is hardly the way two brothers should behave.

LAWRENCE: Spare us the lecture, Vivian.

VIVIAN: I'm serious. We're all family here. We shouldn't be fighting amongst ourselves.

JOHN: You're right, Vivian.

JOHN TURNS AND PUTS HIS HAND ON NICHOLAS' SHOULDER.

NICHOLAS: That's okay. But I don't like to see everyone so angry at each other all the time.

JOHN: (LOOKING CURIOUSLY AT VIVIAN) No, of course you don't.

LAWRENCE: (COVERING) Now, Nikki, don't give John the wrong idea. It's not as if we're angry at each other very often, is it?

NICHOLAS: (NERVOUSLY) No... No, we're usually... we're usually happy.

JOHN: (SUSPICIOUS) Okay, kiddo, if you say so. (LOOKING AT HIS WATCH) Well, I do need to get to the office to check on things. (TO NICHOLAS) We'll get together sometime soon, and you can tell me all about the Series, okay?

NICHOLAS: (RELAXING A LITTLE) Okay.

JOHN: Good. I'm looking forward to it. Vivian, perhaps you and I can talk, as well. I'd like the chance to get to know my aunt a little better.

VIVIAN: (SURPRISED) Well, John, I...

JOHN NARROWS HIS EYES AS HE LOOKS AT VIVIAN. REALIZATION DAWNS ON HER.

JOHN STANDS UP.

JOHN TURNS TO EXIT.

LAWRENCE: John.

JOHN EXITS.

NICHOLAS: Almost...

LAWRENCE: Why don't you go upstairs and finish it, and then I'll look it over.

NICHOLAS: Okay.

NICHOLAS GETS UP AND GOES UPSTAIRS. VIVIAN STANDS UP AND BEGINS TO LEAVE.

VIVIAN: What is it?

LAWRENCE: I know what you're thinking, Auntie.

VIVIAN: (INNOCENT) I don't know what you mean.

LAWRENCE: Don't bother with the innocent act. If I were you, I'd reconsider having that "delightful" chat with John. If you were to let anything slip... Why, there's no telling what might happen to your other nephew.

HOLD ON LAWRENCE'S THREAT.

CUT TO: JACK/JENNIFER LIVING ROOM. JACK, JENNIFER, IN PROGRESS.

JACK: (SMILING) You'll see.

JENNIFER: Jack, I can't wait... tell me.

JACK: Why don't you have a seat here on the couch and I'll be right back.

JACK SITS HER DOWN ON THE COUCH AND LEANS OVER AND KISSES HER.

JACK LEAVES THE ROOM AND JENNIFER SITS ON THE COUCH, OPENS HER EYES AND IMPATIENTLY PLAYS WITH THE BUTTONS ON THE INTERCOM.

JACK: (FROM KITCHEN) Be patient Jennifer. (BEAT) Are your eyes closed?

JENNIFER CLOSES HER EYES TIGHTLY BUT THEN OPENS ONE TO SEE WHAT'S GOING ON. JACK OPENS THE KITCHEN DOOR AND PEEKS AROUND THE CORNER.

JENNIFER: (GIGGLING) Ok, it's closed now.

JACK WALKS INTO THE LIVING ROOM CARRYING ABIGAIL. THEY ARE FOLLOWED BY AN OLDER WOMAN, BEAMING WITH JOY.

JENNIFER OPENS HER EYES AND LOOKS AT JACK AND THEN SEES ROSIE, HER OLD NANNY. JENNIFER SQUEALS WITH DELIGHT AND STRUGGLES TO GET OFF THE COUCH. SHE STANDS AND ROSIE WALKS UP TO HER.

ROSIE AND JENNIFER EMBRACE. JACK, SMILING, STANDS IN THE BACKGROUND WATCHING THE REUNION.

THE TWO WOMEN BREAK APART AND STAND HOLDING EACH OTHER'S HANDS.

ROSIE: (SMILING) Believe it dear, I'm really here.

JENNIFER LEANS FORWARD AND EMBRACES ROSIE AGAIN.

ROSIE: And I've missed you, too.

JENNIFER: (PULLS AWAY) Rosie, is everything ok? Why are you here?

ROSIE: Yes dear, everything's fine. Now lets get you back to that couch.

ROSIE AND JENNIFER SIT DOWN.

JACK: Let's let Rosie explain.

JENNIFER: (LOOKS TO ROSIE) Rosie?

ROSIE: It's simple, dearie. When you had your accident, your father called me and told me what had happened and I just knew that I had to be here for you and your family.

JENNIFER: I still can't believe it... it's like I'm dreaming...

JENNIFER REACHES OUT AND TAKES ROSIE'S HAND.

ROSIE: I'm happy to be here.

JENNIFER: So tell me, what is going on in your life?

ROSIE: I've been retired for the past several years and have been waiting for something to do. So when I heard about your accident, I knew my Jennifer Rosie needed me and I came home. It feels good to be back.

JENNIFER LOOKS AROUND AT HER HOME AND AT JACK HOLDING ABIGAIL.

JACK COMES OVER AND GIVES ABIGAIL TO JENNIFER. JENNIFER TAKES HER DAUGHTER AND GIVES HER A LITTLE HUG.

ROSIE: Oh yes, she's a beautiful baby and I've fallen in love with her already.

JENNIFER: (LOOKING AT ABIGAIL WITH TEARS IN HER EYES) Yes, she is beautiful, isn't she?

JACK: She takes after her mother...

ROSIE: I don't know... those ears...

JENNIFER: Ummm... Rosie, where are you staying?

JACK: Bill and I fixed up the guest room and Rosie will be staying here until you're back to 100%.

ROSIE: And then it's up to you. I can stay on here and help you with Abby full time. Or I can help out part time and stay with your grandparents. Alice already invited me to move in.

JENNIFER: I would love to have you here with me, looking after Abby the way you looked after me. I want my daughter to grow up knowing her other "grandmother."

ROSIE: Why thank you Jennifer Rosie... that means so much to me.

JENNIFER AND ROSIE LEAN TOGETHER AND EMBRACE AGAIN WITH ABIGAIL BETWEEN THEM. JACK WALKS OVER AND KISSES JENNIFER ON THE TOP OF THE HEAD. JENNIFER GIVES ABIGAIL TO ROSIE, STRUGGLES TO STAND UP AND GIVES JACK A HUGE BEAR HUG.

JACK: Well, you'd better sit down, because there's more where that came from.

JENNIFER: (ASTOUNDED) More?

OUT ON JENNIFER'S SURPRISE.

ALAMAIN LIVING ROOM. VIVIAN IS POURING HERSELF A GLASS OF BRANDY. SHE IS DEEP IN THOUGHT AS SHE SLOWLY SIPS HER DRINK. IVAN ENTERS THE LIVING ROOM AND STANDS DIRECTLY BEHIND VIVIAN.

VIVIAN, STILL IN THOUGHT, DOES NOT ANSWER IVAN.

VIVIAN GIVES A SLIGHT JUMP. SHE TURNS AROUND, AND PLACES HER HAND AGAINST HER HEART.

IVAN: I am sorry, Madame. Mr. Alamain had me released. I think for appearance's sake... Or perhaps because he tired of playing his own butler. Is there anything I can get for you?

VIVIAN: Yes, a new identity.

IVAN: Pardon me?

VIVIAN: Never mind... (CHECKS TO MAKE SURE NO ONE IS AROUND) Ivan, did you happen to hear Lawrence and John's conversation earlier?

IVAN: Yes, I did. There is definitely no love lost between the two brothers.

VIVIAN: I agree. (ALMOST WHISPERING) But, did you notice that John said he would protect his family?

IVAN: Yes Madame, I did.

VIVIAN STARTS TO TAP HER FINGERS ON HER BRANDY GLASS.

IVAN: Madame, must I remind you of what Mr. Alamain is capable? This is a very dangerous game to play. If he should find out...

VIVIAN: We will make sure he does not, because I agree, this is dangerous. We won't take any unnecessary risks, but, John might be our answer to freedom from Lawrence. In fact, John might be our only hope.

HOLD ON VIVIAN, DEEP IN THOUGHT.

CUT TO: ECOSYSTEMS. THE ELEVATOR DOORS OPEN AND WE SEE JOHN, DRESSED IN A BLACK SUIT AND TIE, FIDGETING AND PLAYING WITH HIS COLLAR. HE GETS OUT OF THE ELEVATOR AND LOOKS AROUND IN OBVIOUS SURPRISE.

JOHN LOOKS AROUND AT PEOPLE DILIGENTLY WORKING AT THEIR DESKS, A PORTRAIT OF AN EFFICIENT OFFICE. HE WALKS TO HIS SECRETARY, PATRICIA'S, DESK. SHE LOOKS UP IN SURPRISE.

JOHN: Yeah, well, I just got back in town. I figured I better check in at the old office, you know?

PATRICIA: (SHUFFLING THROUGH A STACK OF PAPERS) Oh. That's nice.

JOHN: Yeah. Thought I'd see if everything's going okay without me...

PATRICIA: We managed. (CATCHING HERSELF) There are progress reports on your desk, some papers that aren't urgent, but you should look over and sign, a few memos... Is there anything else I can get for you?

JOHN: No... Thanks. Wow. I'd heard of businesses that run themselves, but this is amazing.

PATRICIA: Sir?

JOHN: I mean, I always thought that was an expression.

PATRICIA: (OBVIOUSLY CONFUSED) It is just an expression, sir. Of course a business can't just run itself. It's Ms. McCloud that's kept everything running like clockwork while you were gone. She's a model of efficiency, a real joy to work with.

JOHN: Ms. McCloud?

PATRICIA: She's managed to streamline the billing process, cut down on paperwork, and now she's looking into revamping the computer system.

JOHN: Now just a minute! Who the hell is Ms. McCloud?

A TALL BRUNETTE, LEIGH MCCLOUD, DRESSED IN A CONSERVATIVE BLUE BUSINESS SUIT WITH AN ANKH STICKPIN IN THE LAPEL, WALKS UP TO JOHN.

HOLD ON JOHN'S SURPRISE.

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JACK, JENNIFER, ROSIE, ABIGAIL, IN PROGRESS.

JACK: Well, you know your family...

FROM THE KITCHEN, EMERGE TOM, ALICE, BILL, MICKEY, MAGGIE, DOUG, JULIE, JO, AND JUSTIN. BILL IS CARRYING A HUGE CAKE WITH THE WORDS, "WELCOME HOME JENNIFER" WRITTEN ON IT. JULIE IS TOWING AN ENORMOUS AND EXTRAVAGANT BALLOON BOUQUET WITH PINK AND LAVENDER BALLOONS. THEY ALL ENCIRCLE THE COUCH ON WHICH JENNIFER IS SITTING. JENNIFER STARTS TO CRY. JACK PUTS HIS ARM AROUND HER.

JENNIFER WIPES HER TEARS AWAY, AND SMILES.

JENNIFER GIVES JACK A KISS.

EVERYONE: Amen!

MICKEY: OK! Let's cut out all this mushy stuff... and cut the cake!

EVERYONE LAUGHS. BILL PATS MICKEY'S STOMACH.

MICKEY: Hey! I missed lunch!

MICKEY AND BILL START THROWING FAKE PUNCHES AT EACH OTHER.

ALICE LAUGHS AND BEGINS CUTTING THE CAKE. JULIE BRINGS SOME DISHES AND FORKS OUT, WHILE MAGGIE HELPS WITH THE CAKE.

ALICE: It's chocolate with raspberry filling.

JENNIFER: Mmmm! Chocolate... my favorite!

ROSIE: I remember that was your favorite when you were a little girl.

TOM: Don't we have a picture somewhere of Jennifer with chocolate cake and frosting all over her face?

DOUG: (LAUGHING) That must've been quite a sight!

DOUG POINTS TO ABIGAIL, WHO IS SITTING IN HER HIGH CHAIR, EATING A PIECE OF CAKE WITH HER HANDS. HER FACE IS COVERED WITH CHOCOLATE.

EVERYONE LAUGHS.

JACK PICKS UP A VIDEO RECORDER AND STARTS TO FILM ABIGAIL, WHO GIGGLES AND REACHES OUT TO JACK WITH CAKE ALL OVER HER HANDS.

JACK MOVES ON AND STARTS TAPING THE REST OF THE FAMILY. ROSIE ATTEMPTS TO CLEAN UP AFTER ABIGAIL.

ROSIE PERKS UP AT THE MENTION OF MIKE'S NAME.

BILL: He's doing great.

BILL HANDS THE TELEGRAM TO JENNIFER.

JENNIFER: (READING) "Hello Squirt! And welcome home. You gave us all quite a scare, but I'm glad you're feeling better. I wish I could be there to give my baby sister a big kiss, but I hope the balloons will do. Julie picked them out for me, knowing her, they're probably an extravaganza."

JULIE SHRUGS AS EVERYONE LAUGHS. THE BALLOON BOUQUET IS LAVISH.

JENNIFER PUTS DOWN THE LETTER, AND REACHES FOR A CLEANED-UP ABIGAIL FROM ROSIE.

JUSTIN: Hey, I'd vote for a visit for us, too! Adrienne and I would love for you, Jack, and Abby to come to Texas and see the boys.

JO: Did Adrienne make it home safely?

JUSTIN: Yes, I talked to her this morning. (TO JENNIFER) She's sorry she had to leave so soon, but she couldn't stand being away from the boys another minute.

JENNIFER: Well, I can definitely understand that.

JENNIFER TICKLES ABIGAIL, WHO SQUEALS.

JUSTIN: At least until the Benefit. Kayla and Doug coerced me into helping them out.

JO: Adrienne's coming back for the benefit, isn't she?

JUSTIN: Oh, she wouldn't miss it... especially since it's our wedding anniversary.

JENNIFER: Well, a happy early anniversary to you! (BEAT) So, what's going on with the benefit?

JACK, WHO HAS BEEN TAPING THE PARTY, PUTS THE VIDEO CAMERA DOWN.

OUT ON JENNIFER'S SURPRISE.

JACK/JENNIFER LIVING ROOM. JACK, JENNIFER, TOM, ALICE, BILL, DOUG, JULIE, MICKEY, MAGGIE, ABIGAIL, JO, JUSTIN, ROSIE, IN PROGRESS.

JULIE: Maybe we should let my darling husband Doug share this one.

JENNIFER: Doug, what's going on?

DOUG: To make a long story short...

JULIE: Please do.

DOUG SITS DOWN ON THE COUCH NEXT TO JENNIFER.

JENNIFER: Sure... why?

JULIE INTERRUPTS AND CONTINUES TO TELL THE STORY.

JENNIFER: Was anyone hurt?

JULIE: Thankfully, no. But the building suffered enough damage that we knew we wouldn't be able to get it fixed in time for the benefit...

JO JUMPS IN.

JENNIFER: Doug?

BILL: Hey Doug, leave your white horse parked outside?

DOUG: (LAUGHING) That and the chauffeur...

MAGGIE: Now Bill, you really shouldn't tease Doug like that. If it weren't for him, there wouldn't be a benefit. And we wouldn't be looking forward to this great party.

JENNIFER, SMILING, WATCHES HER FAMILY CARRY ON.

MAGGIE: Sorry dear, guess we got a little carried away. Anyway, Doug has offered to host the event at his club and came up with this absolutely fabulous idea.

DOUG: I hardly did anything... It never would have worked, if all of you hadn't been willing to pitch in and hustle to make it happen.

JULIE: That's my Doug... never willing to take credit for his wonderful ideas. (TURNS TO JENNIFER) Really dear, it was all Doug's idea and he is making it happen. He's done all the organizing, planning, research...

DOUG STEPS UP ON A FOLDING CHAIR AND BOWS TO THE CROWD, HOLDING HIS DRINKING GLASS UP IN THE AIR. ALL THE HORTONS START CLAPPING.

EVERYONE LAUGHS.

DOUG: (STEPPING DOWN) You're welcome, darling.

JUSTIN: In all seriousness, I never knew I was related to such a talented group of people.

JACK: Frightening, isn't it?

ALICE: (IGNORING JACK) Yes, isn't it wonderful what people can do when there is a good cause. It's been so long since we have done something like this... I just want you all to know that I am very proud of everyone in this room.

BILL: Thanks Mom and we're proud of you, too. (SMILING) I didn't think you still had it in you.

ALICE: (MOCK THREATENING) William...

EVERYONE LAUGHS.

JACK: Come on, have mercy on my wife, she's been through enough...

MICKEY: Sorry Jennifer, Jack... guess we got a little side-tracked again.

JULIE: Jennifer, darling, what we've been trying to tell you in our own inimitable fashion...

DOUG: Is that we are resurrecting the same idea that we used nearly 15 years ago to raise money for a Cat Scanner for University Hospital.

JENNIFER: 15 years ago? I can't remember that far back...

DOUG: Well, let me refresh your memory... We are hosting, singing and dancing in... a variety show!

HOLD ON DOUG'S BROAD SMILE.

CUT TO: EUTERPE. MARTY IS AT THE PIANO, PLAYING A FEW NOTES, AND THEN MAKING NOTES ON SCORE SHEETS. DAVE IS WALKING AROUND, FOLLOWED BY SOME WAITRESSES, CHECKING LAST MINUTE DETAILS AND ANSWERING QUESTIONS. ABE AND LEXIE WALK IN AND LOOK AROUND.

LEXIE: Oh lighten up. It's going to be fun!

ABE: I don't know. I haven't sung since college. Why didn't you tell Doug I'd be the stage manager or something easy like that.

LEXIE: I hear you in the shower every morning. You have a fine voice.

ABE: Well, maybe we can bring a bathtub on stage and I can hide behind the curtain.

SUDDENLY WE HEAR A WOMAN'S VOICE FROM BACKSTAGE.

ABE AND LEXIE EXCHANGE STUNNED GLANCES.

ABE: No, it couldn't be. Do you think so?

LEXIE: I think it is.

CALLIOPE JONES BRADFORD ENTERS FROM BACKSTAGE. SHE IS WEARING A BLACK-AND-WHITE DALMATIAN-SPOTTED JUMPSUIT WITH A RED BELT, RED PUMPS AND FIRE HYDRANT EARRINGS. ON HER HEAD IS A LITTLE HAT SHAPED LIKE A DOG HOUSE, COMPLETE WITH MILK BONES. AROUND HER NECK IS A TAPE MEASURE AND A LONG TRAIL OF PURPLE SEQUINS. SHE COMES OVER TO ABE AND LEXIE AND HUGS BOTH OF THEM.

LEXIE: Calliope! I can't believe it!

ABE: When did you get into town?

CALLIOPE: Doug called and asked me to do the costumes for the Benefit. How could I pass up the chance to come back to Salem and see all my old friends?

LEXIE: You look great.

CALLIOPE STRIKES A FLAMBOYANT POSE.

ABE: I hope you can stay for a while.

CALLIOPE: Enough of all the niceties. (SHE PULLS THEM CLOSER) I've been dying to hear all the latest gossip. If anyone knows all the dirt it should be my two favorite detectives.

HOLD ON ABE AND LEXIE'S LAUGHTER.

CUT TO: JOHN'S OFFICE/ECOSYSTEMS. JOHN AND LEIGH MCCLOUD ARE STANDING IN FRONT OF THE DESK OF JOHN'S SECRETARY, PATRICIA. IN PROGRESS.

LEIGH: I just told you. I'm Leigh McCloud. May I ask who you are?

JOHN: I'm John Black. I own this company.

LEIGH: (SURPRISED) You're John Black?

JOHN: I'm John Black.

LEIGH LOOKS AT PATRICIA FOR CONFIRMATION.

LEIGH: (TURNING BACK TO JOHN) Ummm... I'm sorry, Mister Black. You took me a little by surprise. We weren't expecting you back for another few days.

JOHN: That's all right...

LEIGH: (SPEAKING QUICKLY) Since you're here, I have some reports that I'd like to go over with you. I've been looking into diversifying Ecosystems' interests, and I've found some areas that I think we should seriously consider...

JOHN: (INTERRUPTING) Wait... Slow down. I don't mean to be impolite here, but... who are you?

LEIGH: (FRUSTRATED) I thought we covered this one already. I'm Leigh McCloud.

JOHN PUTS HIS HAND TO HIS FOREHEAD IN FRUSTRATION.

LEIGH: Yes.

JOHN AND LEIGH WALK INTO JOHN'S OFFICE. HE CLOSES THE DOOR BEHIND THEM. JOHN GOES TO HIS DESK AND SITS DOWN. LEIGH WALKS UP TO HIS DESK.

LEIGH: (SITTING) Thank you.

JOHN: Now, let's try this one more time: Who are you?

LEIGH: (TRYING TO HIDE HER ANNOYANCE) I don't mean to be rude, Mister Black, but how many times am I going to have to answer that question?

JOHN: Hopefully, just one. I don't mean your name, Miss McCloud. I got that the first time. I mean, what are you doing here?

LEIGH: What am I...? I work here, Mister Black. I'm your business manager.

JOHN: You're my what?

LEIGH: (SLOWLY) Your... business... manager.

JOHN: My business manager. My business manager?

LEIGH: You are John Black, owner of Ecosystems, right?

JOHN: Yes. I said that.

LEIGH: Then yes, I am your business manager.

JOHN NODS HESITANTLY. MISTAKING HIS NOD FOR AGREEMENT, LEIGH CONTINUES.

JOHN: (INTERRUPTING) Hold it, hold it. One more question.

LEIGH: Yes?

JOHN: Who hired you?

LEIGH: Who hired me?

JOHN: That's the question...

LEIGH: I heard, I just... (SHAKES HER HEAD) You hired me, Mister Black.

OUT ON JOHN'S CONFUSION.

JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JACK, JENNIFER, TOM, ALICE, MICKEY, MAGGIE, BILL, ROSIE, JO, ABIGAIL, JUSTIN, IN PROGRESS.

DOUG: Yes, we want to try to recapture that same magic.

JULIE PUTS HER ARM AROUND DOUG.

JENNIFER: (HER EYES WIDENS) Oh yes! It was one of the most exciting nights of my childhood!

JENNIFER POINTS TO ROSIE.

ROSIE BLUSHES AND WAVES HER HAND AT JENNIFER.

JENNIFER TURNS TOWARDS BILL.

BILL SMILES AND NODS. JENNIFER, GETTING MORE EXCITED, POINTS ONCE AGAIN TO ROSIE.

ROSIE: (MIMICKING) Oh, Jennifer Rosie, do you recognize me, honey?

EVERYONE LAUGHS.

BILL: I'm impressed, Jennifer! What a memory for a wee child...

JACK SITS DOWN NEXT TO JENNIFER AND PUTS HIS ARM AROUND HER.

JULIE: (SIGHING) It was one amazing night!

EVERYONE MURMURS IN AGREEMENT.

JENNIFER: Ooo! What do you have planned?!

DOUG: (MYSTERIOUS) It's a surprise.

JENNIFER: Oh please! Just one hint!

JACK: Yes, Doug. You know, my wife's been ill. Maybe you should give her a small hint.

DOUG THINKS A MOMENT.

JENNIFER'S INTEREST PIQUES. DOUG MOTIONS TO EVERYONE IN THE ROOM.

DOUG POINTS TO JACK.

JACK'S EYES WIDEN AND HE STARTS TO PANIC.

JUSTIN: (LAUGHING) Come on Jack! We've already started rehearsing, and it's a blast!

JACK: Well, apparently you and I have very different ideas about what fun is, Justin.

JULIE: Oh Jack! You've been through worse than a simple stage performance.

JENNIFER HUGS JACK'S ARM.

JACK: I beg to differ, my dear. Must I remind you... if I had a coat of arms, it would be bunnies rampant.

EVERYONE LAUGHS. JENNIFER GIVES JACK A WARM, MELTING SMILE.

JACK: Hey, that's not fair!

JACK LOOKS TO THE REST OF THE FAMILY FOR SUPPORT, TO NO AVAIL. JENNIFER SMILES BRIGHTLY.

BILL PATS JACK ON THE BACK.

ROSIE: I can see that I'm still needed around this household!

ROSIE LIGHTLY SWATS BILL AND JACK ON THEIR HEADS.

MICKEY: Oh come on Jack! Give in already!

JACK SIGHS AND GIVES JENNIFER A DIRTY LOOK. WHEN SHE FROWNS, HE KISSES HER HAND.

JENNIFER'S SMILE REAPPEARS.

JACK: (CRINGING) Geez, this family is worse than the Spanish Inquisition!

HOLD ON EVERYONE LAUGHING, WHILE JACK SITS, FEIGNING DEJECTION.

CUT TO: EUTERPE. ABE AND LEXIE ARE SITTING AT A TABLE WITH CALLIOPE, IN PROGRESS.

CALLIOPE: Well if it's not you and it's not Roman and it's not John...? Who is the Captain?

JANET ARRIVES AT THE TABLE TO HEAR CALLIOPE'S QUESTION.

LEXIE: Janet, hi! Janet Yamada, meet Calliope Jones Bradford, fashion designer extraordinaire. Calliope, this is Janet Yamada, Salem's newest police captain.

CALLIOPE AND JANET SHAKE HANDS. JANET LOOKS AT CALLIOPE'S HAT BUT DOESN'T SAY ANYTHING.

JANET: Doug asked me to perform at the benefit.

ABE: Really? Somehow I don't see you as the performer type.

JANET: Oh, I've been known to play a mean piano for a good cause. Besides, I met Doug shortly after I moved here. He's got a great appreciation of all music. (LOOKING AROUND) I love the idea of this club.

MORGAN AND CANDIS ARRIVE AND JOIN THE GROUP.

LEXIE: What are you two doing here?

CANDIS: Kayla and Doug double-teamed us. What else?

THEY ALL LAUGH.

HOLD ON THE GROUP, LAUGHING.

CUT TO: ECOSYSTEMS/JOHN'S OFFICE. JOHN IS SEATED AT HIS DESK, LEIGH IN AN ADJACENT CHAIR. IN PROGRESS.

LEIGH: Yes, you did.

JOHN: Okay, hold on a minute. If I had hired you, I certainly would have remembered it.

LEIGH: One would think so...

JOHN: But I don't remember hiring you. (BEAT) You must be confused.

LEIGH: (AGGRAVATED) Believe me, Mister Black, I am far from confused.

JOHN: Is that a fact?

LEIGH: Yes. I have been running things here since the day you departed for Switzerland.

JOHN: You knew where I was going?

LEIGH: Of course. I had to know where to reach you, in case of an emergency.

JOHN: (RESIGNEDLY) Of course.

LEIGH: While you were off vacationing, I've been working to put your business affairs in order.

JOHN: I wasn't off... Oh, never mind. Listen, I'm really sorry, but there's obviously been some mistake.

LEIGH: (EXASPERATED) There hasn't been any mistake. (SLOWLY) I received a phone call from an old business acquaintance, Victor Kiriakis.

JOHN: Victor?

LEIGH: Yes. Victor called me and told me that you wanted to hire a business manager.

JOHN: He told you that's what I wanted?

LEIGH: Yes. He said that you had other interests, like traveling, spending time with your family, and dabbling in a local detective agency.

JOHN: "Dabbling"...?

LEIGH: He said that you wanted to hire a business manager in order to have time for your other pursuits.

JOHN SMILES AS REALIZATION DAWNS.

LEIGH: (RELIEVED) I'm glad.

JOHN: I remember talking briefly with Victor about hiring a business manager. (BEAT) But I never told him that he should go out and do it for me.

LEIGH: But...

JOHN: And I certainly didn't give him the authority to hire anyone to work at Ecosystems.

LEIGH: But you did approve hiring me as your business manager. I have a contract with your signature on it.

JOHN: What? How could I have signed a contract when I wasn't even around?

LEIGH: Victor faxed the final contract to you in Switzerland. You signed it and faxed it back.

JOHN: (CONTEMPLATING) Wait a minute...

LEIGH: I have a copy in my office, if you would like to check it...

JOHN: No, that won't be necessary. Victor did send me a few things to sign while I was in Geneva. I just don't recall what they were, exactly.

LEIGH: Did you even read them before you signed them?

JOHN: I don't remember. I might have...

LEIGH: (INDIGNANT) You signed papers without even knowing what you were signing? (CALMING DOWN SLIGHTLY) Well, it's a good thing I'm here. I'll make sure that doesn't happen anymore.

JOHN: I...

LEIGH: (LOOKING AT HER WATCH) I'm sorry, Mister Black, I have a conference call in my office in a couple of minutes. (STANDING UP) I'll arrange for us to meet tomorrow morning so I can bring you up to date. Is tomorrow morning all right for you?

JOHN: (DUMBFOUNDED) Sure...

LEIGH: (WALKING TO THE DOOR) I'll set up a time with Patricia. Thanks for your time.

LEIGH EXITS. JOHN STARES BEMUSEDLY AT THE DOOR.

OUT ON JOHN.

ECOSYSTEMS/JOHN'S OFFICE. JOHN IS ON THE PHONE WITH VICTOR, TWO-WAY, IN PROGRESS.

VICTOR: Hello, John, welcome back.

JOHN: Hello... Thanks... Ummm... listen Vic, I need to talk to you about my.... about my new business manager.

VICTOR: Ahh, so you've met Leigh. Quite amazing, isn't she?

JOHN: "Quite." Especially since I didn't know that I had a business manager until I met her... She says I hired her.

VICTOR: Last time we talked, you said that you weren't comfortable in the role of hands-on CEO. I suggested you consider a business manager.

JOHN: But it's a long way from "considering" to "hiring", especially since I wasn't involved in any of the interviewing, screening or questioning...

VICTOR: Frankly, John, there wasn't the luxury of time to consult with you further. You made me proxy head of Ecosystems when you left for Europe, and I made the decision I thought best for the company.

JOHN: I don't mean to question your judgement, Victor, but...

VICTOR: I've known Leigh for years and she is outstanding. I literally stole her from a large Wall Street conglomerate that was ready to hire her.

JOHN: Yes, but...

VICTOR: Had she gone there, she would have ended up working in direct competition with Ecosystems, as well as several of my companies.

JOHN: Yes, but...

VICTOR: I couldn't afford to see that happen, so I put together the deal. A deal that you, if you'll remember, signed off on...

JOHN: I'm sure Leigh is wonderful, and I'm impressed with what she seems to have done in my absence... but I don't know I if I want a business manager.

VICTOR: Let me speak plainly, John. Do you want to be an executive or a private detective?

JOHN: I'm honestly not sure if I want to be either. I just don't know right now.

VICTOR: Eventually, you'll need to make up your mind. In the meantime, Leigh can be a valuable asset. She can handle company business...

JOHN: So can I...

VICTOR: (CLEARS HIS THROAT) John, don't take this the wrong way, but you could learn a great deal about business from Leigh McCloud.

JOHN: (SHAKING HIS HEAD) I surrender. I'm sure you're right, Victor, and I appreciate your help. Unfortunately, I got off on the wrong foot with Ms. McCloud... I should go make amends...

VICTOR: Among other things, Leigh is fair-minded. I'm sure you'll be able to patch things up to both your satisfactions.

JOHN: I hope so.

VICTOR: I'm sure. Now that that's settled, tell me about Switzerland. What did you discover?

JOHN: More than I could possibly tell you right now. But Victor, we need to talk.

HOLD ON JOHN.

CUT TO: EUTERPE. CANDIS, MORGAN, JANET, ABE, LEXIE AND CALLIOPE ARE ALL SITTING AT A TABLE, ANIMATEDLY TALKING. OCCASIONALLY, A PARTIALLY COSTUMED (BUT FULLY CLAD) PERFORMER RACES BY FOLLOWED BY DAVE AND MARTY. DOUG AND JULIE ENTER AND WALK OVER TO THE TABLE.

A CHORUS OF "HELLOS" FOR DOUG AND JULIE.

CALLIOPE: How is she? Is she okay? Should I take her something, some cookies maybe?

DOUG: Would you be baking them?

CALLIOPE: Of course...

DOUG: Don't risk it.

CALLIOPE GLARES AT DOUG AS EVERYONE LAUGHS.

DOUG: I'm sure she wouldn't miss it, now that I've persuaded her husband to perform.

ABE: You got Jack Deveraux to agree to perform at the Benefit?

DOUG: I did.

ABE: You must be a magician...

CALLIOPE: I was just telling them about your persuasive abilities, Doug. But would they listen? Noooooo. (SHE SHAKES HER FINGER AT JANET) See? Show you what happens if you don't believe me...

JANET HOLDS HER HANDS IN THE AIR IN A GESTURE OF SURRENDER.

THE GROUP COLLECTIVELY SHAKES THEIR HEADS AS DOUG WALKS OVER TO MARTY. THEY SLOWLY GET UP.

HOLD ON JULIE.

CUT TO: JACK/JENNIFER LIVING ROOM. JACK AND JENNIFER ARE SEATED ON THE SOFA. ABIGAIL IS SEATED BETWEEN THEM, PLAYING WITH A STUFFED BUNNY DOLL.

JACK: Oh, it was nothing.

JENNIFER: (TAKING JACK'S HAND) Stop it. Everything you did here today made me feel special. Don't trivialize it.

JACK: (KISSING JENNIFER'S HAND) You are special. (BEAT) I'm so happy to have you home with me again... Words can't express how it feels.

JENNIFER: You don't need words... I know exactly how you feel, because I feel the same way.

THEY LEAN TOWARDS EACH OTHER AND LIGHTLY KISS. ABIGAIL, WHO IS SANDWICHED BETWEEN THEM, LETS OUT A SQUEAL. JACK PICKS HER UP AND SETS HER IN HIS LAP.

JENNIFER LOOKS AT JACK IN AMAZEMENT.

JENNIFER: It's a little bit of a shock to hear you call Abby by name. You almost never do that.

JACK: I know. There is... was a reason for that...

JENNIFER: Really? I'd like to hear it.

JACK: Okay... (DEEP BREATH) Ever since I was a baby, I've lost almost everyone who gets close to me. I lost my biological family when I was put up for adoption. I lost the man who raised me as his own son... I found my family... the Johnsons... my big brother... but then I lost him again, forever.

ABIGAIL MUMBLES. JACK KISSES HER ON THE FOREHEAD.

JENNIFER: (TEARS WELLING IN HER EYES) Oh, Jack...

JACK: I know, I know. I didn't say is was a good reason...

JENNIFER: I understand. I understand why you would be afraid... But things are different now. You have a mother and a sister who love you very much. And my family is your family. They all love you, too...

JACK: I know. I just recently found out how much.

JENNIFER: And you have Abby and me, and neither of us are going anywhere, I promise.

JACK: I know that now. I almost lost you, and... and it nearly killed me. (BEAT) But it didn't. And that which did not kill me has made me stronger. I am stronger...

JENNIFER REACHES OUT AND LOVINGLY TOUCHES JACK'S FACE.

JACK WIPES THE TEARS FROM JENNIFER'S CHEEKS.

JACK BENDS DOWN AND KISSES ABIGAIL.

OUT ON JACK.

ECOSYSTEMS/LEIGH'S OFFICE. JOHN WALKS UP TO THE DOOR, STRAIGHTENS HIS TIE, AND KNOCKS.

JOHN OPENS THE DOOR AND WALKS IN. LEIGH IS SITTING AT HER DESK READING A REPORT. SHE LOOKS UP AND SEEMS SURPRISED TO SEE JOHN, BUT DOESN'T SAY ANYTHING. SHE LAYS THE REPORT DOWN ON THE DESK.

LEIGH REMAINS SILENT. JOHN SHIFTS HIS FEET A BIT AND CLEARS HIS THROAT.

LEIGH: You have been something of an absentee landlord, Mr. Black.

JOHN: Look. Can we start all over again?

LEIGH: I'd like that.

JOHN GOES OUT OF THE OFFICE AND COMES BACK IN AGAIN. HE STRIDES UP TO THE DESK AND HOLDS OUT HIS HAND FOR LEIGH TO SHAKE.

LEIGH: (SHAKING JOHN'S HAND) Thank you. I'm very glad to be here. Please, call me Leigh.

JOHN: And I'm John.

HOLD ON THE TWO SMILING OVER THEIR CLASPED HANDS.

CUT TO: JACK/JENNIFER LIVING ROOM. JACK AND JENNIFER ARE ON THE COUCH. HE'S IN SILK PJ'S AND A PAISLEY ROBE, SHE'S IN A NIGHTGOWN, AND THICK, SOFT TERRY CLOTH ROBE. JENNIFER'S BACK IS PROPPED AGAINST JACK'S CHEST AND SHE'S NEARLY ASLEEP, AS HE STROKES HER HAIR.

JENNIFER: Bedtime? I'm fine, really, just a little tired from all the excitement. I'm not ready for bed yet, I want to stay here... with you.

JACK: And what makes you think I'm not coming with you? You're sorely mistaken if you think I'm inclined to allow you to sleep alone.

JENNIFER: In that case... bed it is, Jack.

JENNIFER STRUGGLES TO SIT UP, AND THEN STAND. SHE'S A LITTLE SHAKY, SO JACK GENTLY PULLS HER BACK TO THE COUCH. HE THEN STANDS AND SCOOPS HER UP INTO HIS ARMS.

JACK: Allow me... at least until you're fully recovered.

JENNIFER: Well, if you want to be that way about it... (SHE LOOPS HER ARMS AROUND HIS NECK AND SNUGGLES CLOSER) My pleasure... But watch your back...

JACK, CARRYING JENNIFER, HEADS TOWARDS THE STAIRS.

CUT TO: JACK/JENNIFER BEDROOM. THE COVERS ARE TURNED DOWN ON ONE SIDE OF THE BED. A VASE ON THE BEDSIDE TABLE HOLDS A SINGLE, BLUSH PINK ROSE. THE TABLE ALSO CONTAINS A SILVER-BACKED BRUSH, A CARAFE OF WATER AND A GLASS. JACK CARRIES JENNIFER IN, AND GENTLY DEPOSITS HER ON THE BED, REMOVING HER ROBE AND TUCKING HER IN. AS HE GOES TO HIS SIDE OF THE BED AND DOFFS HIS ROBE, JENNIFER SMILES AND TURNS DOWN THE COVERS. JACK SMILES AND GETS UNDER THE COVERS. JENNIFER HANDS HIM THE BRUSH, AND TURNS HER BACK TO HIM. HE TAKES THE BRUSH, AND SLOWLY, LUXURIOUSLY RUNS THE BRUSH THROUGH HER HAIR, AS SHE SMILES BLISSFULLY.

JACK: Oh, believe me, I can imagine. That's part of the reason I didn't get much sleep while you were so ill. Besides the obvious, I couldn't bear to be in this bed alone...

JACK FINISHES BRUSHING HER HAIR AND PUTS THE BRUSH ON HER TABLE. JENNIFER TURNS AND KISSES JACK. HE KISSES HER GENTLY, BUT WHEN SHE DEEPENS THE KISS, HE SLOWLY PULLS BACK, AND CUPS HER CHIN IN HIS PALM, RUNNING HIS THUMB TENDERLY ACROSS HER LOWER LIP.

JENNIFER: No. I need you, Jack.

JACK: And I'm here. I'm not going anywhere. But you do need your rest. Doctor's orders, and mine.

JENNIFER: (TENSES SLIGHTLY, AND TURNS AWAY FROM HIM) You don't need to wrap me in cotton wool, Jack, I won't break...

JACK PULLS JENNIFER'S SLIGHTLY TENSE FORM BACK INTO HIS CHEST AND TAKES HER HAND.

JENNIFER'S TENSENESS QUICKLY FADES AND HER EYES FILL WITH TEARS.

JACK: Repeatedly. But I never tire of hearing it. Now you get some rest. You and I are here, together, and all is right with our world.

JENNIFER SIGHS AND KISSES JACK'S HAND. HE KISSES THE TOP OF HER HEAD, THEN REACHES OVER TO TURN OUT THE LIGHT. BRUCE HORNSBY'S "FIELDS OF GRAY" PLAYS SOFTLY IN THE BACKGROUND AS JENNIFER'S BREATHING EVENS OUT IN SLEEP. JACK, CONTENT, LIES AWAKE, LOVINGLY LOOKING AT HIS SLEEPING WIFE. AND OUT. FADE TO BLACK.