![[LOGO]](../ad_grf/ad.gif)
An ALT.DAYS Production,
A Division of Peel Productions, Inc.
Air Date: June 7, 1994
Time: Several Days After #54,
Morning to Evening
Copyright 1995
JACK'S OFFICE. JACK IS WORKING ON HIS COMPUTER WHEN JENNIFER ENTERS.JENNIFER: Jack, could you take a look at this?
JENNIFER HANDS JACK A COMPUTER PRINTOUT.JENNIFER: (CONT'D) It's the feature I've been working on. It could probably use some polishing, but I'd like your opinion. (SITS DOWN)
JACK: I'll get right on it.
JACK GLANCES BRIEFLY AT JENNIFER'S FEATURE, THEN LOOKS BACK AT JENNIFER. HE REACHES OVER TO TAKE HER HAND.JACK: (CONT'D) I'm glad you're back. It was a lonely week without you here at the paper.
JENNIFER: (SMILING) I'm glad to be back.
JACK: Are you sure you don't need a few more days to deal with... your grandfather's passing?
JENNIFER: No, I'll be fine. I want to keep busy... and to be here with you.
SOMEONE KNOCKS AT THE DOOR.JACK: Come in!
LEIGH ENTERS. JACK STANDS UP TO GREET HER.JACK: (CONT'D) Ms. McCloud! (HE LOOKS THROUGH HIS APPOINTMENT BOOK.) Don't tell me I forgot we had an appointment.
LEIGH: No, we didn't have an appointment. (FLIRTATIOUS) I dropped in because I so enjoy your company.
JENNIFER, WHO HAS GONE UNNOTICED BY LEIGH, MAKES A SMALL COUGHING SOUND.LEIGH: (CONT'D) Oh, hello Mrs. Deveraux. I didn't see you.
JENNIFER: Of course you didn't.
JACK: (GIVING JENNIFER A WARNING GLANCE) Please, have a seat Ms. McCloud.
LEIGH: In truth, Jack, I did have some things to discuss with you about EcoSystems' investment, but if this isn't a good time, (LOOKING AT JENNIFER) I could come back later.
JENNIFER: Oh, don't mind me. (STANDING) I was just about to leave.
LEIGH SITS DOWN IN THE CHAIR THAT JENNIFER WAS SITTING IN, ALMOST IMMEDIATELY AFTER JENNIFER STANDS. SLIGHTLY MIFFED, JENNIFER MOVES TOWARD THE BACK OF THE OFFICE AND LISTENS TO JACK AND LEIGH'S CONVERSATION.LEIGH: You know, Jack, I keep meaning to compliment you on your style. Everything from your editorials to the way you dress, simply calls out perfection.
JACK: (PREENING, STRAIGHTENING HIS TIE) Why thank you! Exactly what is it about my "style" that you find worthwhile?
LEIGH: I think it's the passion you put into everything you do...
JENNIFER: (SOTTO VOCE) Oh brother.
JACK: Did you say something, Jennifer?
JENNIFER: I said that I need to return a call from your mother. I'll talk to your later.
JENNIFER MAKES A QUICK EXIT FROM JACK'S OFFICE, BUT PAUSES OUTSIDE ONCE SHE CLOSES THE DOOR. SHE PUTS HER EAR UP TO THE DOOR TO LISTEN. HOLD ON JENNIFER'S SOUR EXPRESSION AS SHE HEARS LAUGHTER FROM THE OFFICE.BRADY: Train!CUT TO: BRADY'S ROOM. JOHN IS DRESSING BRADY IN A PAIR OF RED OSHKOSH OVERALLS WITH TRAINS ON THEM. BRADY POINTS TO HIS LEG.
JOHN: That's right, that's a train. Would you like to go on a train someday?
BRADY: Choo-choo!
JOHN: (LAUGHING) I'll take that as a yes. (BEAT) Who's coming to daycare with you today? Flopsy or Spot?
BRADY: Spot!
JOHN LOOKS AROUND THE ROOM. HE SWINGS BRADY UP INTO HIS ARMS AND HEADS FOR THE DOOR.JOHN: Okay, the diaper bag is downstairs, we'll just get Spot and be on our way...
BRADY: Daddy go work?
JOHN STOPS IN MID-STRIDE, HIS FACE THOUGHTFUL. HE SITS DOWN IN THE ROCKING CHAIR WITH BRADY IN HIS LAP.JOHN: Well, I should. I was planning to. But... Did I ever tell you that you're a pretty smart kid?
BRADY NODS HIS HEAD VIGOROUSLY.JOHN: (CONT'D) The truth is, Slugger, I'm feeling restless. Lawrence is in jail. Vivian and Nikki are safe. Carly's murder is solved. (BEAT) Where do I go from here?
BRADY PATS JOHN ON THE FACE. JOHN TAKES HIS HAND AND KISSES IT.JOHN: (CONT'D) I thought that solving the mystery of Carly's life... and death... would help me remember my past. But it didn't. (BEAT) Your old man's still got a lot of holes to fill in... And he doesn't know how to he's going to do it...
THE PHONE RINGS. JOHN REACHES ACROSS TO THE DRESSER AND PICKS IT UP. IT'S CAROLINE, TWO-WAY.JOHN: (CONT'D) Hello?
CAROLINE: Hello, John. I wanted to see how you and Brady were doing.
JOHN: (TO BRADY) It's Grandma!
BRADY: Gramma!
JOHN: We're okay... Well, Brady is, anyway. I was just telling him I'm feeling a little restless...
CAROLINE: Oh? Any particular reason?
JOHN: Yeah, the whole memory thing again. I thought finding out about Carly would have helped, but...
CAROLINE: It hasn't. (BEAT) Look, why don't you come round to the Pub and we'll talk.
JOHN: All right, I'll be in around lunchtime. (MAKING A FACE AT BRADY) My kid just reminded me I have a job, so I'd better show my face there this morning.
CAROLINE: I'll be here. Give kisses to Brady for me.
JOHN PUTS DOWN THE PHONE AND HUGS BRADY. HOLD ON THE TWO.BO: You wanted to see me, Captain?CUT TO: JANET'S OFFICE. JANET IS SITTING AT HER DESK GOING THROUGH SOME PAPERWORK WHEN BO KNOCKS ON THE DOOR AND ENTERS.
JANET: Yes, come on in. Sit down.
BO, NERVOUS, SITS ACROSS FROM JANET.JANET: (CONT'D) I called you in here to talk about the shooting and the I.A. review.
BO VISIBLY RESTRAINS HIMSELF FROM FIDGETING. JANET NOTICES.JANET: (CONT'D) You look nervous. If you need to talk about it, it's all right. None of this is on the record.
BO IS THOUGHTFUL FOR A MOMENT AND THEN NODS.BO: I feel like I've been on a roller coaster and I don't know how to get off. My fiancée is dead, my son has been through hell for a year and I don't even know if he'll ever be the same...
JANET: Shawn-Douglas will be all right. You have to believe that.
BO: Then there's the job. I've had problems, deservedly so, and now that I finally seem to be getting things on track, I could lose everything. (BEAT) It's very frightening... and the waiting is hard.
JANET HOLDS UP A FOLDER.JANET: You don't have to wait any longer. A decision's been made.
OUT ON BO'S WORRY.
JACK'S OFFICE. JACK AND LEIGH. IN PROGRESS.JACK: So I decided that, whatever the cost, I needed the best people in key staff positions. All that was left was to move in and make the offers...
LEIGH: I do admire a person who knows how to make a decisive proposition...
JACK: It wasn't so much a proposition as an offer, one I knew would be to the candidate's liking...
LEIGH: Clearly, you do your homework, Mr. Deveraux. Have you done any on me?
JACK: I've researched EcoSystems... I know the company is solid...
LEIGH: That it is, and so is our negotiating base. But I was more curious about the... personal side. I've certainly looked into your background.
JACK: And discovered all of my deep, dark secrets?
LEIGH: Of course. The deepest, darkest ones intrigue me...
SUDDENLY, JENNIFER BURSTS IN.JENNIFER: Jack, darling, you've got that Editors meeting in less than five minutes, and I know you'll want to get your notes together...
JACK: But I've got them right...
JENNIFER: And you'll want to go over the notes...
JACK: But I already...
LEIGH LOOKS BACK AND FORTH BETWEEN JENNIFER AND JACK.JENNIFER: I'm sure Ms. McCloud wouldn't want to detain you.
LEIGH: Heaven forbid...
JACK: Jennifer... Leigh and I were in the middle of...
LEIGH: (AMUSED) Don't worry, Jack, I should be leaving, anyway. And as much fun as it's been, I should concentrate on business... (LOOKING JACK UP AND DOWN) rather than pleasure.
JENNIFER: (BRISTLES) As I said, duty calls my husband, Ms. McCloud. Perhaps we can all chat some other time.
LEIGH: Of course. (HOLDING OUT HER HAND TO JACK) Jack, let's talk again soon.
JACK AND LEIGH SHAKE HANDS.JACK: Definitely. There are a few more points I'd like to go over before we ink the deal...
LEIGH: (SOFTLY) Indeed. (TURNING TO JENNIFER) Mrs. Deveraux, always nice to see you...
JENNIFER: Right...
LEIGH WALKS OUT, AND JACK WATCHES HER LEAVE. JENNIFER, NOTICING HIS FOCUS, PICKS UP THE PILE OF NOTES ON HIS DESK, AND SMACKS THEM INTO HIS CHEST.JACK: (BEFUDDLED) Wha.. ah, Jennifer... are you put out with me for some reason? Have I done something?
JENNIFER: (SOTTO VOCE) No, and you'd better not do anything...
JACK: Pardon?
JENNIFER: No, but you're about to be late. We'll talk later.
JACK: (SIGHING) Words that never fail to unnerve me...
HOLD ON JACK.BO: (NERVOUS) What did I.A. have to say?CUT TO: JANET'S OFFICE. IN PROGRESS.
JANET: You know, Brady, when I first found out what happened, I was upset... and disappointed.
BO: Yes, ma'am.
JANET: There are certain responsibilities you take on when you become a police officer, one of which is securing your weapon.
BO BEGINS TO PERSPIRE.JANET: (CONT'D) It's one of the first things they teach you in the Academy. Isn't it, Brady?
BO: Yes, ma'am.
JANET: Yet you did not secure your weapon.
BO: No, ma'am.
JANET: Many captains would penalize an officer for such a serious breach of responsibility. (BEAT) But, I've decided to give you a break, Officer.
BO'S EYES WIDEN IN SURPRISE.JANET: (CONT'D) It's been a year since the incident occurred, and I think you're a different person... a different cop than you were a year ago. (BEAT) I told that to I.A.
BO: I... I... Thank you, Captain.
JANET: I.A. also interviewed Bob...
BO GULPS.JANET: (CONT'D) ... and he had some good things to say about you.
BO: I'll have to thank Bob. (BEAT) But, Captain...
JANET: What is it Brady?
BO: What did I.A. have to say? Am I still a cop?
OUT ON BO'S ANXIETY.ALICE: Thank you for coming by, dear. But I don't want to keep you.CUT TO: HORTON LIVING ROOM. MAGGIE AND ALICE ARE SITTING ON THE COUCH. A TRAY WITH COFFEE AND COOKIES IS ON THE COFFEE TABLE IN FRONT OF THEM.
MAGGIE PATS ALICE'S HAND.MAGGIE: Nonsense. I want to be here. In fact, the real reason for my visit was to invite you to lunch at Euterpe.
ALICE: I don't feel much like going out. But thank you. (SIGHS)
MAGGIE: I feel so helpless, Alice. Isn't there anything I can do to help you get through this?
ALICE: I don't think anyone can help me, honey. (SHE LOOKS AROUND) The house seems so empty now.
MAGGIE: At least Bill is here.
ALICE: Yes, but he's at the hospital so much lately.
MAGGIE: What about you? When are you going to come back to the hospital? Everyone... the doctors, the nurses, the other volunteers... misses you. They ask after you all the time.
ALICE: I don't know. I... I just can't bring myself to go back right now.
MAGGIE: Would you like me to do your shopping? Help with cleaning? Anything? I have time before my volunteer shift.
ALICE: I'll be fine. Why don't you go on? I don't want you to be late.
MAGGIE: Well... Are you sure you're all right? You'll call if you need anything?
ALICE: Yes, really. I will.
MAGGIE GETS UP TO LEAVE GIVING ALICE A KISS. ALICE HUGS HER. MAGGIE EXITS AND WE HEAR THE FRONT DOOR SHUT. HOLD ON ALICE STARING AT TOM'S EMPTY EASY CHAIR.
JANET'S OFFICE. JANET AND BO. IN PROGRESS.JANET: Do you want to be a cop?
BO: More than anything.
JANET: Do you think you deserve disciplinary action?
BO: Whatever you think is appropriate, Captain.
JANET: Understood. (BEAT) I.A. and I agree. Your punishment...
BO LOOKS AT HER ANXIOUSLY.JANET: (CONT'D) ... Officer Brady, is minimal. (BEAT) I.A. has decided to give you a reprimand for failing to properly secure your sidearm.
BO: (SURPRISED) A reprimand? That's all?
JANET: That's all.
BO SIGHS WITH RELIEF.JANET: (CONT'D) It's not something to be taken lightly. This goes on your record.
BO: I realize that, Captain. (BEAT) But to tell you the truth, I'm just happy that I still have a record... and a job.
JANET: Internal Affairs can be reasonable.
BO: Very reasonable. (BEAT) I know that you had a lot to do with that. I appreciate your going to bat for me. You've been more than understanding. I don't know how I'll ever thank you...
JANET: Make sure I never regret it. (BEAT) I'd hate to be disappointed.
BO: Don't worry, you won't be. I'm going to do everything I can to justify your faith in me.
JANET: I'm glad to hear it.
BO STARTS TO SPEAK, THEN HESITATES.JANET: (CONT'D) Was there something else, Brady?
BO: Well... yes. I hope you don't mind my asking...
JANET: Ask, and we'll see.
BO: I was wondering... What's going to happen with Larry Alamain? It's obvious that he wasn't responsible for Carly's death.
JANET: That's true.
BO: So, is he going to walk?
JANET: Not if I have anything to say about it.
BO: You have something else on him?
JANET: We do. (SOFTLY) This is privileged information... it does not leave this room. Understood?
BO: Yes, ma'am.
JANET: We've been gathering evidence against Alamain. He's been charged with burglary, kidnaping, intent to commit bodily harm, and a few other assorted and miscellaneous crimes.
BO: (SMILING) That sounds encouraging.
JANET: I just hope we're able to make the charges stick. (BEAT) He may not be responsible for Dr. Manning's death, but he is responsible for a multitude of evil deeds. (BEAT) And it's about time we made him pay.
HOLD ON JANET'S DETERMINATION.LAWRENCE: What is taking him so long?CUT TO: SALEM P.D. INTERVIEW ROOM. LAWRENCE, DRESSED IN PRISON BLUES, IS PACING AROUND THE TABLE.
THE DOOR TO THE ROOM IS OPENED BY A UNIFORMED OFFICER. MARK CHILDRESS, LAWRENCE'S NEW ATTORNEY, ENTERS.LAWRENCE: (CONT'D) Well?
MARK PLACES HIS BRIEFCASE ON THE TABLE, THEN SITS DOWN.MARK: There's nothing else I can do.
LAWRENCE: (COLD ANGER) I fired Marchand because he didn't know what he was doing. What's your excuse?
MARK: Mr. Alamain, I...
LAWRENCE: Did you even attempt to get me released?
MARK: Yes, Sir, but every possible avenue of release has been blocked.
MARK OPENS THE BRIEFCASE, AND REMOVES A STACK OF FOLDERS.MARK: (CONT'D) The D.A.'s office has gone to great lengths to make sure that you stay in jail. (BEAT) They waited until the last possible moment to formally file charges; the arraignment has been scheduled on the last possible day; and somehow they drew Judge Parsons and convinced him you're a flight risk and a danger to the public. (BEAT) I'm sorry, Mr. Alamain.
LAWRENCE: Don't tell me that you're sorry, Childress. (BEAT) I don't care how you do it, get me the hell out of here.
HOLD ON LAWRENCE'S FURY.JACK: What is it?CUT TO: JACK'S OFFICE. THE DOOR OPENS AND JACK ENTERS, FOLLOWED BY JENNIFER. JACK SITS DOWN AT HIS DESK AND JENNIFER TAKES A CHAIR FACING HIM. SHE STARES AT HIM WITHOUT SAYING ANYTHING. JACK SHIFTS IN HIS SEAT UNCOMFORTABLY.
JENNIFER: You know.
JACK: I'm afraid I don't.
JENNIFER: I'll give you a hint: Leigh McCloud.
JACK: What about her?
JENNIFER: Oh, come on, Jack. She was flirting with you, and you were going along with it. Don't try to deny it.
JACK: (LAUGHING) Jennifer, please...
JENNIFER: I was there, Jack.
JACK: That was just business.
JENNIFER: I don't think so. It's obvious to me that she was coming on to you...
JACK: I think you're imagining things. She was trying to get more information about Deveraux Publishing. She's interested in a business investment.
JENNIFER: It seems to me that she's as interested in you as she is in business... maybe more.
JACK: I seriously doubt it. (BEAT) Women don't notice me... like that. If they notice me at all, it's as a businessman.
JENNIFER: I see you as more than a businessman.
JACK: True, but you have a unique point of view...
JENNIFER: What's that supposed to mean?
JACK: It's supposed to mean that you have exquisite taste.
JENNIFER: (SMILING) Well... That's true.
JACK: And I'm quite certain that no woman has taste as good as yours.
JENNIFER: (HER SMILE FADING) I wish I could be as certain. I think Ms. McCloud has similar tastes, and it worries me.
JACK: I doubt that.
JENNIFER SIGHS.JACK: (CONT'D) Besides, what if she did? Why would that worry you?
JENNIFER: Jack, think about it. She's beautiful, she's smart, and she's aggressive. (BEAT) And she's got her eye on you.
JACK: That may be, but there's one important fact that you're overlooking.
JENNIFER: What's that?
JACK STANDS UP AND WALKS AROUND HIS DESK TO WHERE JENNIFER IS SITTING.JACK: I am strictly a one-woman man...
JACK TAKES HER HANDS IN HIS.JACK: (CONT'D) And you are the one woman for me.
JACK PULLS JENNIFER UP OUT OF THE CHAIR AND INTO HIS ARMS.JACK: (CONT'D) So, no more worrying, all right?
JENNIFER: (SMILING WEAKLY) All right.
THEY KISS AND JACK PULLS JENNIFER INTO A CLOSE EMBRACE. JENNIFER STILL LOOKS WORRIED. OUT ON JENNIFER'S WORRY.
SMALL NURSES' STATION/LOUNGE. BILL IS SEATED AT THE TABLE, DRINKING SOME JUICE AND READING OVER A PATIENT'S CHART.BILL: Poor Mr. Reilly... All that smoking finally caught up with him...
BILL MAKES A FEW NOTES ON THE CHART, THEN CLOSES THE FOLDER, SHAKING HIS HEAD.BILL: (CONT'D) Some people never learn...
MAGGIE ENTERS.MAGGIE: Hi, Bill!
BILL: Hello, Maggie. Volunteering today?
MAGGIE: Yes. (BEAT) Do you have a minute?
BILL: For my favorite sister-in-law? Absolutely.
MAGGIE SITS DOWN, ACROSS FROM BILL.MAGGIE: It's about Alice.
BILL: (CONCERNED) She's so depressed...
MAGGIE: Yes, she is. I talked to her this morning. She's lonely, but at the same time, she's not ready to get out and be around people.
BILL: I know. (BEAT) I should be spending more time with her, but I've been so busy here...
MAGGIE: She understands. You have a lot of responsibilities now, a lot of people counting on you.
BILL: Yes, but my mom needs me, too. (LONG BEAT) I've tried to sit down and talk to her about things... about Dad... But it's hard to get her to talk about anything.
MAGGIE: I've noticed the same thing. She seems to have lost her spunk, her energy.
BILL: I know. I want to help her get that back, but at the same time, I don't want to push too hard.
MAGGIE: Exactly.
BILL: I pray that all she needs is time... Time to mourn, and time to heal. Hopefully, she'll soon be back to her old self.
MAGGIE: I pray that you're right, but I wish there was more we could do for her.
BILL: Well, I'll be keeping a close eye on her. (BEAT) No matter how busy things get around here, I'll be sure to make the time to keep her company.
MAGGIE: That's wonderful, but...
BILL: But...?
MAGGIE: But you can't be there all the time. Nobody can. (BEAT) I wish we could figure out a way to keep her from feeling lonely at all.
BILL: That's a tall order.
MAGGIE: Yes, it is.
BILL RUBS HIS CHIN IN CONTEMPLATION. HE SUDDENLY RAISES HIS EYEBROWS AS AN IDEA HITS HIM.BILL: (SMILING) I think I might have an idea.
MAGGIE: Oh, good! What is it?
BILL: Let me check it out first. If it works, you'll find out soon enough.
HOLD ON BILL.CAROLINE: Hello, John. Can I get you anything?CUT TO: BRADY PUB. JOHN ENTERS THE PUB AND WAVES TO CAROLINE, WHO IS STANDING BEHIND THE BAR. JOHN WALKS OVER TO HER, PULLS UP A STOOL, AND SITS DOWN.
JOHN: Just a cup of coffee for now.
CAROLINE POURS JOHN A CUP OF COFFEE.CAROLINE: I'm glad you stopped by. You sounded a little worried over the phone.
JOHN: Yeah. I feel like I've got some unfinished business to take care of.
CAROLINE: About your past?
JOHN: That's right. Solving Carly's death hasn't helped me remember everything. There are still so many gaps...
JOHN RUNS HIS HANDS THROUGH HIS HAIR, IN FRUSTRATION.CAROLINE: (CONCERNED) Have you considered seeing a psychiatrist?
JOHN: (SURPRISED) What?
CAROLINE: It might help.
JOHN: I thought I'd been handling things rather well, considering everything I've had to deal with lately.
CAROLINE: Maybe that's the problem.
JOHN: What do you mean?
CAROLINE: John, you've done a good job handling all of the... recent situations...
JOHN: Okay...
CAROLINE: But I think you've been so busy dealing with everyone else's problems that... (SHE HESITATES)
JOHN: Yes?
CAROLINE: I think you've stopped dealing with your own.
JOHN: Me? Come on, Caroline, you know I confront everything head-on.
CAROLINE: Do you? It seems to me that you're suppressing your own feelings about Carly... about your past...
JOHN: (THINKING) I don't know. Maybe I am. (BEAT) You think seeing a shrink will help?
CAROLINE: Yes. Maybe dealing with those feelings will finally help you unlock the door to your past.
HOLD ON JOHN'S PENSIVE EXPRESSION.JANET: (SOTTO VOCE) Does this ever end?CUT TO: JANET'S OFFICE. JANET IS SITTING AT HER DESK, WORKING ON A HUGE STACK OF PAPERWORK.
THERE'S A TAPPING AT THE DOOR.JANET: (CONT'D) Come in!
JANET LOOKS UP TO SEE SHANE WALK IN.JANET: (CONT'D) (SURPRISED) Captain Donovan... (SMILING) It's lovely to see you...
SHANE SITS DOWN ACROSS FROM JANET.SHANE: (TEASING) Why, Captain Yamada, did you miss me?
JANET GIVES HIM A QUICK GRIN, THEN SHAKES IT OFF.JANET: What did you find out from ISA headquarters?
SHANE: Those folks are definitely stirred up. (BEAT) Some of the section heads are extremely nervous.
JANET: Now that sounds intriguing... little Lawrence Alamain shaking up the entire ISA.
JANET PICKS UP THE MUG ON HER DESK, BUT FINDS IT EMPTY.JANET: (CONT'D) I'm going to go get something to drink; can I offer you something? Coffee, soda, water...
SHANE: I'd take some tea, if you have it.
JANET: Hmmm... (RUMMAGING THROUGH HER DESK DRAWER, THEN REMOVING TWO TEA BAGS) Earl Grey okay with you?
SHANE: Perfect. (BEAT) Earl Grey happens to be my favorite blend.
JANET: Mine, too.
SHANE: (SMILING) Yet another thing we have in common... Captain... Think it might mean something?
OUT ON SHANE'S AMUSEMENT AND JANET'S BEFUDDLEMENT.
MICKEY'S OFFICE. MICKEY IS SITTING AT HIS DESK, A PENCIL BEHIND HIS EAR, FLIPPING THROUGH LAW TEXTS. THE PHONE RINGS. MICKEY ANSWERS. IT'S BILL, TWO-WAY.MICKEY: Hello.
BILL: Is this Salem's finest lawyer?
MICKEY: (LAUGHING) Bill! You bet it is. What's up?
BILL: I'm a worried about Mom. She's depressed and lonely...
MICKEY: Yes, I know. Maggie was going to go over there this morning and check on her.
BILL: I know, Maggie and I were just talking. We think that we should do something to cheer up Mom.
MICKEY: What can we do?
BILL: I have an idea. I want to know what you think of it. And if you like it... if you'll help me carry it out.
HOLD ON MICKEY'S INTEREST.JENNIFER: You rang, O Mighty Publisher?CUT TO: JACK'S OFFICE. JACK IS WORKING AT HIS COMPUTER WHEN JENNIFER ENTERS.
JACK: That's "Publisher and Owner."
JENNIFER: A thousand pardons, O Publisher and Owner.
JENNIFER SITS ACROSS FROM JACK.JACK: Granted. (BEAT) I finished reading your article.
JENNIFER: And...?
JACK: (PICKING UP THE ARTICLE AND HOLDING IT OUT TOWARD JENNIFER) Take a look... I marked a few things here and there, but it didn't need any major changes. (BEAT) It's good work. I'm impressed.
JENNIFER: (TAKING THE ARTICLE) Thanks. I'll take a look at your notes and get another draft to you.
JACK: Excellent...
WE HEAR A TAP ON THE DOOR AND JO ENTERS.JO: Hi, Jack! Hi, Jennifer!
JENNIFER: Hi, Jo!
JACK: What can we do for you?
JO: Funny you should ask that... There is something you can do: You can call your sister. (BEAT) Today's the anniversary of her and Justin's second wedding.
JACK: I know. (BEAT) It was nice of you to come by to remind me, but I already called Adrienne this morning.
JO: (SMILING) You did?
JENNIFER: You did?
JACK: Yes, I did. I also had flowers delivered.
JO: Well, I'm impressed.
JENNIFER: Me, too.
JO: Thank you, Jack. Thank you for remembering your sister.
JACK: No need to thank me. It's a brother's job.
JO: And you do it very well. (BEAT) Is Vern in?
JACK: As far as I know, yes.
JO: I'll go check. See you two later.
JENNIFER: 'Bye, Jo .
JO: Good-bye.
JO EXITS. JENNIFER TURNS TO JACK.JENNIFER: Okay, Jack, the truth.
JACK: About what?
JENNIFER: Did you really remember Justin and Adrienne's anniversary?
JACK: Of course I did. (BEAT) You thought I was lying?
JENNIFER: Well, not exactly. I thought that maybe you'd tell Jo you already called, just to make her feel better, and then you'd call Adrienne later.
JACK: Obviously, that wasn't necessary, since I did remember.
JENNIFER: Okay...
JACK STANDS, LEANS ACROSS THE DESK AND LIGHTLY RUNS A FINGER DOWN JENNIFER'S CHEEK.JACK: (RECITING) "What I do and what I dream include thee; As the wine must taste of its own grapes. When I sue God for myself, He hears that name of thine and sees within thine eyes the tears of two."
JENNIFER: (STUNNED) Jack... (BEAT) How did you remember that "sonnet from the Portuguese?"
JACK: It was easy. I think back to when Justin and Adrienne were reciting that poem at their wedding. I was listening to them say the words, but I could only think of you.
JACK SMILES SHEEPISHLY. JENNIFER, OBVIOUSLY TOUCHED, SMILES BACK. HOLD ON JENNIFER'S DAZZLING SMILE.RICHARD: So I think our best bet would be to try and encourage some of our regular advertisers to use older models. It makes more sense, and maybe, in some small way, we can change the public's perception a little... (HE PAUSES, NOTICING JULIE IS MILES AWAY) Julie... hello?CUT TO: JULIE'S OFFICE. JULIE AND RICHARD SIT AT THE LARGE CONFERENCE TABLE, PAGES OF ADS SPREAD OUT BEFORE THEM. IN PROGRESS.
JULIE: What? Oh, Richard, I'm sorry. Older models... yes...
RICHARD Maybe we should call it a day. I know you're still coping with... with your loss, and I understand how difficult it can be to concentrate...
JULIE: That's the thing, Richard, I have something to concentrate on. I was thinking about Grandma. She seems so... lost. I've never seen her like this... even at the worst of times.
RICHARD: But no time is as bad as when you lose your spouse. I remember when my Dad died... Mom retreated from life... shut herself off from everyone and everything...
JULIE: That's it, exactly. I've seen many widows and widowers go through the same thing. It's hard on them, harder still on the family... (BEAT, THINKING) Perhaps we should consider doing an article in Midsummer about grief...
RICHARD: Great idea. We could get input from grief counselors. Find out what the widow can do, what the family can do to help and support... (BEAT) Some people handle grief... strangely...
JULIE: Strangely? Are we still talking about your mother or my grandmother?
RICHARD: Not exactly. How can I put this? I was graced by Eve's presence at Euterpe the other night....
JULIE: Eve?! Oh, no... what did she do this time?
OUT ON JULIE'S UNEASINESS.
BRADY PUB. JOHN CONTINUES TO SIT AT THE BAR, WHILE CAROLINE POURS A CUP OF COFFEE FOR ANOTHER CUSTOMER AT THE BAR. CAROLINE WALKS OVER TO JOHN AND REFRESHES HIS CUP.JOHN: (PENSIVE) Caroline, I think you might be right.
CAROLINE: You've thought about it, then?
JOHN: Yeah. I've been thinking about everything that's happened in the past couple of years. Losing IzzyB and raising Brady on my own took up so much of my time.
CAROLINE: You've been a wonderful parent despite everything.
JOHN: Thanks. I hope my Slugger thinks so. (BEAT) Finding out about Carly was shocking. But, you're right; I didn't have time to really let it all sink in.
JOHN TAKES A SIP OF HIS COFFEE.JOHN: (CONT') There was Danielle. Finding her... and then saying goodbye again brought back a lot of old emotions... feelings I'd forgotten...
CAROLINE: I'm sure it did.
JOHN: When I got back home, there were so many problems with Lawrence. I spent a lot of time trying to help out Vivian and Nikki... Not to mention my career change, getting it together with EcoSystems, and still trying to stay involved with Carver and Carver.
CAROLINE: It's a lot to take in for one person.
JOHN: Maybe I do need help sorting out my life and dealing with all my feelings about the past.
CAROLINE: Bo's been pleased with James Ector. He's helped Shawn-Douglas through most of the tough spots. (BEAT) Maybe you should make an appointment.
JOHN: Okay. I'll do it when I get back to the office.
CAROLINE HANDS JOHN JAMES' BUSINESS CARD, THEN PICKS UP THE TELEPHONE AND HANDS IT TO JOHN.JOHN: (CONT'D) (SMILING) Or, maybe I'll call him right now.
HOLD ON JOHN AS HE BEGINS TO DIAL.BO: Hey, what's this?CUT TO: JAMES' OFFICE. JAMES AND SHAWN-DOUGLAS ARE SITTING ON THE BENCH OUTSIDE HIS OFFICE EATING ICE CREAM CONES. BO WALKS UP.
JAMES: (SMILING) Ice cream therapy, what else?
SHAWN-D: It's fudge ripple. That's Dr. James' favorite, too!
BO: It is, huh? It must be good because it's all over you. Why don't I hold your cone while you go wash your face?
SHAWN-DOUGLAS EYES BO.SHAWN-D: You're not gonna eat it, are you?
BO PUTS HIS HAND OVER HIS HEART.BO: I'll just watch it, I promise.
SHAWN-D: Okay.
SHAWN-DOUGLAS GOES ACROSS THE HALL INTO THE MEN'S ROOM. BO SITS ON THE BENCH NEXT TO JAMES.BO: How was the session? My mother said he seemed pretty good this morning.
JAMES: He's making steady progress. But it's crucial that you stay involved. Shawn-Douglas needs to be sure that you love him.
BO: Whatever it takes, I'm there.
JAMES: Good. I'd like to do some joint sessions with the two of you. I think that would help.
BO STARTS TO LICK SHAWN-DOUGLAS' CONE. JAMES LIFTS AN EYEBROW IN AMUSEMENT. BO GRINS BACK.BO: Just doing a little drip management. (BEAT) You mean kinda like family counselling? I can do that.
JAMES: How are you doing with the situation?
BO: I'll do anything necessary to make Shawn-Douglas better.
JAMES: I mean you, yourself. This didn't just happen to Shawn-Douglas.
BO: Oh. Well, I found out today that they'll let me keep my job. That's a big weight off my shoulders.
JAMES: Well, if there are any other feelings that have surfaced, anything you need help with, we can work on those, too.
BO: Okay, thanks.
SHAWN-DOUGLAS COMES OUT OF THE MEN'S ROOM AND JUMPS INTO BO'S LAP, GRABBING THE ICE CREAM. HOLD ON THE THREE LAUGHING.LEXIE: Do you really think Spencer has a chance of sending Lawrence to jail for good?CUT TO: CARVER & CARVER/ABE'S OFFICE. ABE AND LEXIE ARE GOING THROUGH FILES AND NOTES.
ABE: If anyone can do it, Spencer can. (FLIPPING PAGES) And if we can find anything in here to help him do it...
LEXIE: I know I'll rest easier once this is all over. Lawrence Alamain is a menace.
ABE: A rich and powerful one. That's what makes it so frustrating.
THE BELL OVER THE FRONT DOOR SOUNDS AND LEXIE GETS UP TO SEE WHO IT IS.ABE: (CONT'D) Don't get up, Carrie can handle it.
LEXIE: She's gone out to the office supply store, remember?
JUST AS LEXIE REACHES THE DOOR, IT OPENS. ONE OF THE NEIGHBORS, PETER TSU, COMES IN, VERY AGITATED AND OUT OF BREATH.LEXIE: (CONT'D) Peter, what is it? What's the matter?
PETER: (PANTING) There's been another burglary... Mrs. O'Donnell... The police are with her now...
OUT ON ABE AND LEXIE'S SHOCK.
JANET'S OFFICE. SHANE AND JANET ARE SIPPING THEIR TEA. IN PROGRESS.JANET: We seem to be rattling some cages within the Salem P.D. as well. (BEAT) I've been getting pressure to drop "older" cases...
SHANE: Older?
JANET: The higher-ups say we're wasting too much time on "old" cases that can't be solved. That we should move on...
SHANE: Cases that can't be solved? Hmmm... as in the Alamain case, I presume?
JANET: No one is willing to come out and say so, but that's what everyone is hinting at. (TAKING ANOTHER SIP OF TEA) We're not using police resources at the expense of other investigations... And nothing is even near the statute of limitations...
SHANE: You're not seriously thinking of dropping the case...
JANET: Not for all the beignets in the French Quarter. (BEAT) I intend to see this through to the end.
SHANE: I figured you would.
JANET: But Spencer warned me that I might need to come up with more witnesses.
SHANE: Any ideas on where to start looking for these people?
JANET: Not yet... I was hoping that you could help me with that.
SHANE: Well... I'll certainly try. (BEAT) Maybe we could discuss this over dinner one night soon?
JANET: I think I could handle that.
HOLD ON SHANE'S GRIN.JULIE: Come on, Richard, out with it. What did Eve do this time?CUT TO: JULIE'S OFFICE. JULIE AND RICHARD. IN PROGRESS.
RICHARD: I didn't want to make a big deal of it, but... She was quite... eager to "comfort" me the other night at Euterpe.
JULIE: You mean during Poetry Night?
RICHARD: Yes, the night dedicated to your grandfather. (BEAT) It was a lovely tribute, by the way...
JULIE: Thank you. (DEEP BREATH) But back to Eve... I can't believe that she would be so insensitive.
RICHARD: As I said, I wouldn't make too big of a deal out of it...
JULIE: Maybe you wouldn't...
RICHARD: Really, I don't think you need to worry about it. Eve can be, well... overzealous at times...
JULIE: Very diplomatic of you, Richard...
RICHARD: But I think she's basically harmless.
JULIE: (SMILING WRYLY) Hmmph. You don't know Eve very well.
RICHARD: Perhaps not. However, there was a reason I brought up the subject...
JULIE: Oh...?
RICHARD: Yes. I need your advice. (BEAT) I need to figure out a way to curb Eve's... advances...
JULIE: You may not have anything to worry about. I've seen the way she looks at Ian...
RICHARD: Well, I like to have a plan for any circumstance. (BEAT) Seriously, do you have any ideas?
JULIE: Seriously... Hmmm... Well, subtlety is out. Eve wouldn't notice a subtle hint if it came up and kicked her in the stomach.
RICHARD: I see. (BEAT) So what would work? I don't want to tell her to get lost, but... I'm afraid that she might interpret a lack of discouragement as encouragement, and I don't want to lead her on in any way .
JULIE: You're right about one thing... Once Eve sets her mind on something, she rarely stops, unless someone else stops her.
RICHARD: And in this situation, one would stop her by...?
JULIE: (SMILING) By giving her the very clear impression that he is already taken.
RICHARD: As in, spoken for?
JULIE: Exactly.
RICHARD: And what would be the best way to go about giving her this impression?
JULIE: Why, go on a date, silly!
RICHARD: A date?
JULIE: Yes. A date. At Euterpe. On a night when Eve is working. (BEAT) I could even arrange for you to "win" a free dinner for two.
RICHARD: You don't need to do that...
JULIE: Nonsense, I insist! I have some pull with the owner, you know.
RICHARD: All right, if you insist.
JULIE: All you have to do is bring a date.
RICHARD: Aye, there's the rub.
JULIE: Oh, come on... I'm sure there are dozens of women who would love to have dinner with a dashing young man like you.
RICHARD: (EMBARRASSED) I'm not so sure about that...
JULIE: Stop it, Richard, I don't want to hear it.
RICHARD: Yes, boss. (BEAT) I do like your idea.
JULIE: Well, then, just find yourself a date, Mr. Hunt, and let me take care of the rest.
RICHARD: Find a date. Okay... I'll see what I can do.
HOLD ON RICHARD'S CONTEMPLATION.ABE: Calm down, Peter. Why don't you sit down?CUT TO: CARVER AND CARVER. ABE AND LEXIE ARE TALKING TO A NEIGHBOR, PETER TSU. IN PROGRESS.
PETER TAKES A SEAT NEXT TO ABE AND LEXIE.ABE: (CONT'D) Now, what exactly happened?
PETER: You know Mrs. O'Donnell on Mission Street?
LEXIE: Yes, I see her at the market from time to time. She's a nice lady.
PETER: She's also getting on in years, and can't get around too well.
PETER TAKES A HANDKERCHIEF OUT OF HIS POCKET AND WIPES HIS BROW.PETER: (CONT'D) Someone forced their way into her house while she was sleeping. The noise woke her, but she was too frightened to do anything, or even move.
LEXIE: Oh no! Was she hurt?
PETER: No. The phone rang, and scared whoever it was away.
ABE: I can't believe it! Now, these crooks aren't even waiting until the house is empty!
PETER: Next time, maybe someone will be hurt.
LEXIE: We don't know if these people carry weapons. What happens if someone tries to stop them?
PETER: If things don't change soon, I'll move away. Maybe I'll take up my daughter's offer and move in with her.
PETER STANDS UP TO LEAVE.ABE: Just be careful yourself, Peter.
PETER: I will.
PETER LEAVES THE OFFICE. ABE AND LEXIE LOOK AT EACH OTHER, BOTH VISIBLY UPSET.LEXIE: Abe, whatever happened with your neighborhood watch program idea?
ABE: Nothing, yet. But, maybe it's time.
OUT ON ABE'S CONCERN.
RICHARD'S OFFICE. RICHARD IS READING THROUGH SOME PAPERS WHEN DIANE LAKE, THE SPECTATOR POLICE BEAT REPORTER, ENTERS.DIANE: Hey, Hunt.
RICHARD: Diane, come in.
DIANE, LOOKING SOMEWHAT SUSPICIOUS, CLOSES THE DOOR AND WALKS OVER TO RICHARD'S DESK.DIANE: I got your message. What did you want to see me about?
RICHARD: Thanks for stopping by. (MOTIONING TO A CHAIR IN FRONT OF HIS DESK) Have a seat.
DIANE SITS DOWN CAUTIOUSLY.DIANE: Okay, Hunt, what's going on?
RICHARD: (INNOCENTLY) What do you mean?
DIANE: You leave me a message, asking me to meet you. I show up, and you act so... nice. Too nice.
RICHARD SMILES.DIANE: (CONT'D) You're making me nervous.
RICHARD: (CHUCKLING) Don't worry... There's nothing for you to be nervous about.
DIANE: Okay, so what's going on? Why am I here?
RICHARD: You're here because I have an invitation for you.
DIANE: An invitation?
RICHARD: Yes. (BEAT) I've received a free dinner for two at Euterpe, and I'd like you to join me.
DIANE: (SMILING) Okay... So what's the catch?
RICHARD: No catch. I have this free dinner, and I'd like to enjoy it along with some... stimulating conversation.
DIANE: And you thought of me.
RICHARD: Well... yes. (GRINNING) You never seem to be at a loss for words...
DIANE: Hey! (BEAT) What happened to being nice?
RICHARD: You said it was making you nervous.
DIANE: Yeah, yeah...
RICHARD: So, what do you say?
DIANE: You're serious?
RICHARD: Of course I'm serious.
DIANE: I don't know...
RICHARD: Come on... What's wrong? (TEASINGLY) 'Scared?
DIANE: (DEFENSIVELY) Don't be ridiculous.
RICHARD: Seeing someone?
DIANE: That's none of your business, Hunt.
RICHARD: I guess that means no...
DIANE: (RELUCTANTLY) Well, no... Not regularly.
RICHARD: So you don't really have any reason to say no to dinner.
DIANE: (MISCHIEVOUSLY) Maybe I just don't like you.
RICHARD: Maybe... But I doubt it. I've been told I'm very likeable.
DIANE: Yeah, but your mother's opinion isn't exactly unbiased.
RICHARD: Ouch! That hurt.
DIANE: Sorry.
RICHARD: No, you're not.
DIANE: (SMILING) You're right.
RICHARD: All right, Lake, last chance. It's just dinner. And it's free. What do you say?
DIANE RUBS HER CHIN IN CONTEMPLATION. RICHARD LOOKS AT HER INQUISITIVELY.DIANE: Well... Okay.
RICHARD SMILES.DIANE: (CONT'D) But... Only because I'm not one to turn down a free meal at a fancy restaurant.
RICHARD: Works for me.
DIANE: Don't let it go to your head.
RICHARD: Oh, absolutely not.
DIANE: And don't think this means I like you.
RICHARD: I wouldn't dream of it. (BEAT) I'm sure you don't think this invitation means I like you, either.
DIANE: Not at all.
RICHARD: Good, I think we understand each other.
DIANE: I think so. (STANDING UP) I'll check my calendar and give you a call tomorrow.
RICHARD: Great.
DIANE GOES TO THE DOOR AND OPENS IT.DIANE: G'night, Hunt.
RICHARD: Good night.
DIANE GIVES RICHARD ONE LAST SUSPICIOUS GLANCE, THEN EXITS. RICHARD CROSSES HIS ARMS AND SMILES. HOLD ON RICHARD'S SATISFIED SMILE.JACK: (LOOKING UP AT JENNIFER) I'm sorry...CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JACK IS SITTING ON THE SOFA. ABIGAIL IS ASLEEP ON HIS LAP. JENNIFER ENTERS FROM THE KITCHEN, AND STANDS BEHIND JACK.
JENNIFER: About what, Jack?
JACK: I wasn't exactly honest with you earlier today. (BEAT) It seems I'm not a one-woman man after all.
JENNIFER: Oh, really... (BEAT) Who is she, Jack?
JACK SMILES AT JENNIFER, THEN LOOKS DOWN AT ABIGAIL.JACK: Our daughter...
JENNIFER: (GRINNING) Ahhh... That's okay... I'm willing to share you with Abby.
JACK: Good thing. And I promise you this... I'm definitely no more than a two-woman man.
JENNIFER COMES AROUND THE SOFA, AND SITS DOWN BESIDE JACK.JENNIFER: And what if there were another child?
JACK: (PANICKED) You're not... we're not...
JENNIFER: Relax, Jack, I'm not pregnant. At least, not right now...
JACK: That's a relief. (SEEING JENNIFER'S EXPRESSION) About the right now part, I mean. (LOOKING DOWN AT ABIGAIL) I know I can always find room in my heart for any Deveraux woman that may come along.
JENNIFER: But what if the next one is a boy, Jack?
JACK: You're trying to scare me, aren't you? (STROKING ABIGAIL'S HAIR) I think I'd like to wait a little while before we have another baby. (BEAT) I'm not ready to divide my attention just yet.
ABIGAIL STIRS AND SMILES UP AT JACK.ABIGAIL: Daddy mine!
JACK AND JENNIFER BOTH LAUGH.JACK: Even Abigail Johanna agrees. (BEAT) And we do have plenty of time to have more children.
JENNIFER: We have all the time in the world...
JENNIFER KISSES JACK'S CHEEK AND SNUGGLES CLOSE TO HIM. HOLD ON THE HAPPY FAMILY.BILL: Hello, Mom. How are you doing?CUT TO: HORTON LIVING ROOM. ALICE IS SITTING ON THE SOFA READING "MIDSUMMER," WHEN BILL ENTERS.
BILL BENDS DOWN AND GIVES ALICE A HUG.ALICE: (UNCONVINCING) I'm fine, darling.
BILL: Do you think you'd be up for some company?
ALICE: I'm a little tired, so maybe not right now.
BILL: Not even for Mickey?
ALICE GIVES A SMALL LAUGH.ALICE: Mickey's not company, he's family. (BEAT) Where is he?
SUDDENLY, A DOG'S BARK CAN BE HEARD FROM THE ENTRY.MICKEY: Here I am!
MICKEY ENTERS THE LIVING ROOM, ACCOMPANIED BY A HANDSOME BORDER COLLIE ON A LEASH. THE DOG IS FULLY GROWN, AND APPEARS TO BE ABOUT FOUR OR FIVE YEARS OLD.ALICE: Oh my goodness! Who do we have here?!
MICKEY STANDS STILL, WHILE THE DOG OBEDIENTLY SITS NEXT TO HIM.ALICE: (CONT'D) Did you buy a dog, Mickey?
MICKEY BENDS DOWN TO PET THE DOG, WHO RETURNS HIS AFFECTIONS BY LICKING HIM ON THE FACE.MICKEY: No, not exactly. Bill and I went to the animal shelter, and this beautiful dog was about to be put to sleep. So, we rescued him.
MICKEY UNDOES THE LEASH, AND THE DOG GOES OVER AND SITS ON THE FLOOR NEXT TO ALICE, WHO PETS HIM.ALICE: That was a wonderful thing to do.
THE DOG LICKS ALICE'S HAND.ALICE: (CONT'D) (SMILING) And he seems like a nice dog.
MICKEY: Good, then you'll keep him?
ALICE: (SURPRISED) What?
BILL: We got the dog for you... to keep you company.
ALICE: That was a very sweet gesture. (SKEPTICAL) But, I don't know...
ON CUE, THE DOG RESTS HIS CHIN ON ALICE'S LAP AND LOOKS UP AT HER WITH SAD "PUPPY DOG" EYES.ALICE: (CONT'D) Aww, look at that face! (BEAT) All right, I'll keep him.
BILL: You'll love him, Mom.
ALICE: He certainly seems like a charmer.
SHE LOOKS DOWN AT THE DOG.ALICE: (CONT'D) You need a name, don't you? (SHE PAUSES A MINUTE TO THINK) How about Norm? What do you think about that?
"NORM" IMMEDIATELY WALKS OVER TO TOM'S FAVORITE CHAIR AND PUTS A PAW ON THE SEAT. HE LOOKS OVER TO ALICE AND GIVES A SMALL BARK.MICKEY: I think he likes his name!
ALICE: (SMILING) Yes, and I think he knows what the name means, too.
BILL WALKS OVER TO NORM AND BENDS DOWN TO PET HIM.BILL: Welcome to the family, Norm!
NORM BARKS TWICE AND WALKS OVER TO SIT, ONCE AGAIN, NEXT TO ALICE. ALICE SMILES AND PETS NORM. OUT ON ALICE AND NORM. FADE TO BLACK.
[ Previous Episode (#54) | Next Episode (#56) ]
[ ALT.DAYS Home Page | ALT.DAYS List of Episodes ]