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An ALT.DAYS Production,
A Division of Peel Productions, Inc.
Air Date: July 26, 1994
Time: Several Days After #61,
Morning to Afternoon
Copyright 1995
DONOVAN LIVING ROOM. SHANE ENTERS, PERUSING THE MORNING EDITION OF THE SPECTATOR. THE PHONE RINGS. IT'S SPENCER. TWO-WAY.SHANE: Donovan here.
SPENCER: Shane, it's Spencer Hanlon. I'm sorry to call you at home, but I'm desperate.
SHANE: No need to apologize, we're on the same team after all.
SPENCER: So you say... (BEAT) Look, Shane, things aren't going as well as I'd hoped. I could use that evidence from the ISA.
SHANE: I know. I was promised that evidence days ago...
SPENCER: Well, then, where is it?
SHANE: I wish I knew... Believe me Spencer, I'm as frustrated as you are. I've called HQ until I'm blue in the face...
SPENCER: And I'm doing my best song and dance... but the music can't play on forever.
SHANE: Is there a chance Lawrence might be acquitted?
SPENCER: I can't say. But without that evidence...
SHANE: Look, Spencer, just keep tap dancing for a little bit longer. I'll call my sources again and get back to you.
HOLD ON SHANE'S DETERMINATION.KAYLA: Hi, Marcus. I didn't know you were coming over.CUT TO: KAYLA'S HOUSE. KAYLA AND STEPHANIE ARE SITTING ON THE FLOOR IN FRONT OF A BIG PIECE OF CARDBOARD AND SEVERAL MAGAZINES, WHEN THE DOORBELL RINGS. KAYLA GOES TO ANSWER THE DOOR. SHE OPENS THE DOOR TO MARCUS.
MARCUS: I thought I'd stop by for a visit before my hospital shift. It's not a bad time, I hope.
KAYLA: It's never a bad time when you're here. Come in.
MARCUS WALKS INTO THE HOUSE AND KISSES KAYLA. STEPHANIE JUMPS UP FROM HER CHAIR AND RUNS OVER TO MARCUS.STEPHANIE: Uncle Marcus!
MARCUS LIFTS STEPHANIE UP AND PUTS HER ON HIS SHOULDERS. HE FOLLOWS KAYLA INTO THE LIVING ROOM.MARCUS: How are my girls doing today?
STEPHANIE: Mommy's helping me cut out pictures.
MARCUS BOUNCES STEPHANIE OFF HIS SHOULDERS. SHE SITS ON THE FLOOR AND PICKS UP SEVERAL CUT-OUTS FROM THE MAGAZINES.KAYLA: Her summer school class wants all the kids to make a collage of their favorite things.
MARCUS: That sounds like fun. What sort of things do you have, Steffi?
STEPHANIE: (HOLDING UP A PICTURE WITH EACH ITEM SHE LISTS) Ice cream... and ponies... and chocolate... and kitties... and jelly beans... and flowers... and popsicles...
MARCUS: (LAUGHING) I'd say you have a theme, honey.
MARCUS LOOKS UP TO FIND KAYLA SADLY STARING OUT THE WINDOW.MARCUS: (CONT') Steffi, why don't you get an extra pair of scissors, and I'll help you cut more pictures?
STEPHANIE: Okay!
STEPHANIE SKIPS OUT OF THE LIVING ROOM. MARCUS WALKS UP BEHIND KAYLA AND PUTS HIS ARMS AROUND HER.MARCUS: You all right, Kay?
KAYLA: I'm sorry, Marcus. I'm a little off today.
MARCUS: Hey, I understand. Yesterday would have been your and Steve's sixth wedding anniversary.
KAYLA TURNS AROUND AND SMILES SOFTLY AT MARCUS.KAYLA: You remembered.
MARCUS: How could I forget? (PULLS AT HIS COLLAR) I was the best dude-man.
KAYLA LAUGHS, THEN BECOMES SERIOUS.KAYLA: Marcus, I don't want you to think that my being sad about Steve means that I don't love you. (BEAT) It's just that it still hurts when I think about how he died... so young... and so violently.
IN THE BACKGROUND, STEPHANIE CAN BE HEARD SINGING TO HERSELF. KAYLA GLANCES TOWARDS THE SOUND.KAYLA: (CONT') And that Steve will never be able to see his daughter grow up.
MARCUS HOLDS KAYLA'S HAND.MARCUS: Believe me, I do understand. I miss my homey, too.
HOLD ON MARCUS' SADNESS.SHANE: Yes, I'm still holding... Have you been able to locate Miss Peach?... (ANGRY) What do you mean you can't find her? (MUTTERING TO HIMSELF) Fat lot of good it is to be a spy... Let me speak to Tarrington, then... What?... Oh bloody hell, he and those infernal meetings... No, no message, I'll ring again.CUT TO: COMMUNICATIONS ROOM/FOYER. SHANE IS SEATED AT THE CONSOLE TALKING ON THE PHONE TO ISA HEADQUARTERS.
SHANE HANGS UP THE PHONE AND BANGS HIS HEAD ON THE CONSOLE.SHANE: (CONT'D) Dammit, dammit, dammit!
SHANE GETS UP AND GOES OUT INTO THE FOYER. EVE IS JUST COMING DOWN THE STAIRS.EVE: Hi, Dad! It's a beautiful day out, isn't it? What do you say we go for a picnic lunch down by the river?
SHANE: (STILL IN A FOUL MOOD) I can't today, Eve. (BEAT) (GENTLER) I've got too many things going on with the Alamain case.
EVE: That's been your excuse for weeks! You said you came back to Salem to be here for me.
EVE STOMPS OFF TOWARDS THE STAIRS. SHE LEANS OVER THE BANNISTER.EVE: (CONT'D) Well, you're not! You're here for your stupid case. I may as well be dead.
EVE RUNS UP THE STAIRS. SHANE STARTS TO FOLLOW.SHANE: Eve! How can you say such a thing? Let's talk about this...
THE DOORBELL RINGS. SHANE LOOKS UP THE STAIRCASE AND THEN OVER AT THE DOOR.SHANE: (CONT'D) Dammit! What now!?
SHANE GOES DOWN THE STEPS TO ANSWER THE DOOR. HE OPENS THE DOOR TO FIND PEACHIE STANDING ON HIS FRONT STEP.SHANE: (CONT'D) Peachie!
OUT ON SHANE'S AMAZEMENT.
SALEM INN. VIVIAN IS SITTING ON THE COUCH, READING, WHEN THE OFFICER LETS JOHN INTO THE ROOM.OFFICER: Mr. Black to see you, Ms. Alamain.
VIVIAN: John! (PATTING THE COUCH) What brings you by?
JOHN: (TAKING A SEAT) I wanted to check in on you... see how you're doing after testifying in court yesterday.
VIVIAN: I've pretty much recovered, I think. (GESTURING) And as you can see, the Salem Inn is still standing. I'm here, Nikki's here, Ivan's here... we're all safe and sound.
JOHN: You did the right thing by testifying.
VIVIAN: I know. (BEAT) I only appeared as a hostile witness to protect myself in case Lawrence is acquitted.
JOHN: I figured as much. And do you think it worked?
VIVIAN: I'm not sure, John. (BEAT) And I hope I never have to find out.
HOLD ON VIVIAN'S ANXIETY.MARCUS: It's okay for us to miss Steve. How could we not? (BEAT) But he'd be the first one to tell us to get on with our lives and be happy.CUT TO: KAYLA'S LIVING ROOM. MARCUS IS HOLDING KAYLA GENTLY. HE PUTS A FINGER UNDER HER CHIN TO LOOK INTO HER EYES.
KAYLA: I know you're right. Steve would want me to find happiness with someone else.
KAYLA PUTS HER PALM AGAINST MARCUS' CHEEK.KAYLA: (CONT'D) And I think he'd be happy with my choice...
MARCUS LEANS DOWN AND GENTLY KISSES KAYLA.MARCUS: And I know he'd agree that I found myself the best lady in the world...
THE TWO HUG. HOLD ON THEIR EMBRACE.PEACHIE: I'm so happy to see you again, Laddie!CUT TO: COMMUNICATIONS ROOM / DONOVAN HOUSE. SHANE AND PEACHIE ENTER THE COMMUNICATIONS ROOM. THE DOOR CLOSES BEHIND THEM.
SHANE: You are a sight for sore eyes, Peach. But tell me, why all the secrecy? Couldn't we discuss business in the living room just as well?
PEACHIE: I suppose so, but I didn't want to risk anyone listening. This is crucial.
SHANE: What have you found out?
PEACHIE: I was finally able to track down the evidence we were looking for.
SHANE: So, we have proof now that Lawrence was responsible for creating the deadly virus?
PEACHIE: Aye, but it gets better.
SHANE: Is the scientist willing to testify?
PEACHIE: I don't think that's possible.
SHANE: Why not?
PEACHIE: He was killed in a mysterious lab explosion.
SHANE: Then how can we prove Lawrence was responsible?
PEACHIE: Fortunately, the scientist made backup copies of all his work, and he very specifically named Lawrence Alamain as his boss.
SHANE: Splendid! Peachie, you're fabulous!
SHANE KISSES PEACHIE ON THE CHEEK.SHANE: (CONT'D) I talked to Spencer a little while ago, and he hadn't received this evidence yet.
PEACHIE: I wouldn't fret about it. He was probably handed the evidence as he was hanging up the phone.
SHANE: I wonder why the ISA didn't find this evidence three years ago?
PEACHIE: Because it was in the hands of a private party, and that party recently handed it over to us.
SHANE: Who or what is this private party?
PEACHIE: I'm afraid I can't say yet, Laddie.
SHANE: But...
SUDDENLY, THE ISA PHONE LINE RINGS. SHANE ANSWERS IT. ONE-WAY.SHANE: (CONT'D) Donovan here... Yes, hello Chief. I've been briefed by Peachie, but tell me... What?... She's right here. One moment.
SHANE HANDS THE PHONE TO PEACHIE.SHANE: (CONT'D) It's Tarrington. He wants to speak with you.
PEACHIE: Would you mind letting me speak in private?
SHANE: Private? I don't understand.
PEACHIE: Please, Laddie. It's important.
SHANE: Very well, if you insist.
PEACHIE: Thank you.
SHANE OPENS THE DOOR AND STEPS OUT INTO THE LIVING ROOM. THE DOOR CLOSES BEHIND HIM. OUT ON SHANE'S INTRIGUE.
COMMUNICATIONS ROOM / DONOVAN HOUSE. TARRINGTON AND PEACHIE ON THE PHONE, TWO-WAY. IN PROGRESS.PEACHIE: Sir, if I may be so bold, have you made a decision?
TARRINGTON: As shy and retiring as ever, Miss Peach...
PEACHIE: It's important and you know it.
TARRINGTON: That I do. We've been getting pressure from Donovan, the local authorities and you.
PEACHIE: Sir, you're evading me. Is the combined weight of demand enough to break the proverbial camel's back?
TARRINGTON: Miss Peach, always so colorful... I've often thought you should retire and write mystery novels...
PEACHIE: (WARNING) Chief... Besides, I prefer to solve real mysteries, not fictional ones. Now about the case...
TARRINGTON: The case? (BEAT) Miss Peach, you and Donovan "win."
PEACHIE: We do?
TARRINGTON: Yes, you do. We'd have preferred to allow Alamain to swim free a bit longer... We had to be getting close to him leading us to... what shall I say? Bigger fish in the criminal pond.
PEACHIE: Strategy didn't work?
TARRINGTON: Perhaps Alamain was the wrong bait. In any case, it's over. The ISA is ready to cooperate fully.
HOLD ON PEACHIE'S SURPRISE.JOHN: How would you feel if Lawrence is convicted and sentenced to life in prison?CUT TO: SALEM INN. JOHN AND VIVIAN. IN PROGRESS.
VIVIAN: Honestly?
JOHN NODS HIS HEAD.VIVIAN: (CONT') I'd be relieved. If he's in jail, I don't believe that Lawrence will try to take Nikki away from me.
JOHN: Even in jail, Lawrence has proved to be a cunning adversary.
VIVIAN: True, but if he can't have his son with him, I believe he would allow Nikki to stay with me. At least Lawrence knows that I love Nikki dearly, and would do everything I could to take care of him.
JOHN: (JOKINGLY) What?! You don't think Larry would want Nikki living with his Uncle John?
VIVIAN LAUGHS.VIVIAN: (SMILING) Thank you, John.
JOHN: You're welcome, but for what?
VIVIAN: I haven't had much to smile about lately.
JOHN: The trial's been putting a lot of pressure on you, hasn't it?
VIVIAN: Yes, and I don't enjoy being pulled into two directions like this.
JOHN: I thought you just said that you'd be relieved to see Lawrence convicted.
VIVIAN: Part of me does pray for a conviction. (BEAT) But, another part of me still loves my nephew. It's difficult to explain.
JOHN: It's okay, Vivian. I know exactly how you feel.
HOLD ON JOHN.TARRINGTON: We've decided to take everything we've got and throw it against Alamain. It's better for the organization to simply be done with him and move on to other, more productive cases.CUT TO: COMMUNICATIONS ROOM / DONOVAN HOUSE. PEACHIE IS ON THE PHONE WITH TARRINGTON, TWO-WAY. IN PROGRESS.
PEACHIE: I must say, I'm surprised...
TARRINGTON: You don't agree with my assessment?
PEACHIE: On the contrary, I'm in total agreement. (BEAT) I'm relieved. It's about time this came into the open.
TARRINGTON: Well, I'm glad you feel that way.
PEACHIE: Oh?
TARRINGTON: Yes. You see, we need your assistance.
PEACHIE: I'll do my best. What is it?
TARRINGTON: In addition to all the evidence we've gathered against Lawrence Alamain, we're sending our star witness to testify against him. I'd like you to act as liaison and brief the District Attorney in Salem.
PEACHIE: Certainly. When will the witness be arriving?
TARRINGTON: This afternoon. The witness is en route as we speak.
PEACHIE: What?
TARRINGTON: Is there a problem?
PEACHIE: Problem? Of course there's a problem! How could you be so bloody reckless?
TARRINGTON: Reckless? What are you talking about?
PEACHIE: When this witness makes an appearance, it will have a significant effect on this community. (BEAT) They should be warned, they should be prepared...
TARRINGTON: Possibly. But, our primary objective in this case is to ensure that Lawrence Alamain is convicted. The immediate testimony of our witness is the best way to achieve that objective.
PEACHIE: This could hurt people...
TARRINGTON: Certainly, but not as much as Alamain could hurt them if he were to be acquitted. (BEAT) Try to concentrate on the task at hand, Miss Peach. It is for the best that we follow this course of action.
PEACHIE: You'll forgive me if I question the wisdom of this... "course of action."
TARRINGTON: Certainly, as long as you do your job. You are to brief the District Attorney and help him use the evidence, and the witness, that we are providing.
PEACHIE: In that case, I'd best get to it. (BEAT) You certainly haven't given me much time.
TARRINGTON: (IGNORING PEACHIE'S COMMENT) I'll let you get to it, then. (BEAT) I'll expect a full report of the trial results.
PEACHIE: Of course. Good day.
TARRINGTON: Good day.
PEACHIE HANGS UP THE PHONE.PEACHIE: (DISGUSTED) Bloody bureaucrats...
PEACHIE GETS UP AND QUICKLY EXITS THE COMMUNICATION ROOM.SHANE: So, Peachie, what's going on?GO TO: FOYER. PEACHIE COMES OUT OF THE COMMUNICATIONS ROOM. SEEING HER, SHANE ENTERS FROM THE LIVING ROOM.
PEACHIE: No time to explain now, Laddie. We have to get to the courthouse right away. I must speak to your District Attorney immediately.
SHANE: But...
PEACHIE: But, nothing. Come on, I'll explain on the way.
SHANE: (CONFUSED) All right...
OUT ON SHANE'S BEFUDDLEMENT.
KAYLA'S HOUSE. KAYLA, MARCUS, AND STEPHANIE ARE SEATED ON THE COUCH. KAYLA IS SHOWING STEPHANIE PICTURES FROM HER AND STEVE'S WEDDING ALBUM.STEPHANIE: Mommy, you look so pretty!
KAYLA: Thank you, honey. (LOOKING AT THE PICTURE) Gosh, I looked so much younger back then...
MARCUS: You're much more beautiful now, if you ask me.
STEPHANIE: Can I wear your wedding dress when I get married?
KAYLA: (TOUCHED) Of course. I hope you don't plan on getting married anytime soon.
KAYLA LAUGHS AND MUSSES STEPHANIE'S HAIR.STEPHANIE: I'm going to wait and find someone just like you found Daddy. (BEAT) Did you both like the same things?
KAYLA: For the most part, no. We were very different people. I liked to play tennis, while your daddy would rather play pool.
MARCUS: Didn't Steve eventually teach you how to shoot pool?
KAYLA: Yes, and it shocked him when I beat him.
STEPHANIE: Why did you get married if you were so different?
MARCUS: I think your mommy and daddy saw things that attracted them to each other. It's hard to explain love, honey.
KAYLA REACHES OVER AND HOLDS MARCUS' HAND. STEPHANIE CONTINUES TO LOOK THROUGH THE ALBUM.STEPHANIE: Uncle Marcus, why are you in here?
MARCUS: That's because I was your daddy's best man.
STEPHANIE: What's a best man?
MARCUS: Hmm, good question. (BEAT) A best man is there to give moral support and a bachelor party for the groom.
KAYLA: (LAUGHING) I think there's a lot more to being a best man. Marcus was your daddy's best friend. He was there because your daddy wanted Marcus to know how important he was to him... and to me.
MARCUS SMILES AT KAYLA, WHILE STEPHANIE LOOKS AT MORE PICTURES. SUDDENLY, STEPHANIE LOOKS UP AT KAYLA.STEPHANIE: Mommy, when are you and Uncle Marcus getting married?
FLUSTERED, KAYLA SITS SPEECHLESS, WHILE MARCUS SEEMS PLEASED WITH THE IDEA. HOLD ON MARCUS' SMILE.JOHN: Lawrence and I have always been rivals, in one way or another. (BEAT) Even when we were kids, he could be cruel and hateful...CUT TO: SALEM INN. JOHN AND VIVIAN. IN PROGRESS.
VIVIAN: And spiteful...
JOHN: I think he was jealous of my relationship with his... with our father.
VIVIAN: Leopold did always adore you.
JOHN: And Lawrence?
VIVIAN: He and your father... didn't always see eye to eye.
JOHN: I'm sure Lawrence blamed me for that. (BEAT) Still...
VIVIAN: What?
JOHN: I can't shake the feeling that, in his own way, Lawrence loved me. At least, he did when we were young. I know it.
VIVIAN: Maybe so. (BEAT) But that was a long time ago.
JOHN: True. But, I've recently begun to recover those memories. They're still fresh for me.
VIVIAN: What are you saying?
JOHN: I'm saying... I'm saying that the man I am now is glad that Lawrence will most likely fry for what he's done...
VIVIAN: But...?
NICHOLAS QUIETLY ENTERS, UNNOTICED BY JOHN AND VIVIAN.JOHN: But there's still that small part of me, the Forrest Alamain part, that wishes things could be different for my brother.
NICHOLAS WALKS UP TO JOHN AND VIVIAN.NICHOLAS: You're talking about my... You're talking about Lawrence?
VIVIAN: (NERVOUSLY) Nikki, darling...
JOHN: Hey, Nikki.
VIVIAN: Your Uncle John and I were talking about business...
NICHOLAS: Come on, Aunt Viv...
JOHN: Nikki, why don't you sit down with us?
NICHOLAS: Okay.
NICHOLAS SITS DOWN BETWEEN JOHN AND VIVIAN.JOHN: We were talking about Lawrence.
VIVIAN LOOKS DISAPPROVINGLY AT JOHN.JOHN: (CONT'D) I was telling Vivian how I'm kinda confused.
NICHOLAS: Confused about what?
JOHN: Well, you see, I know Lawrence has done an awful lot of bad things. (BEAT) But, he's also my brother. (BEAT) So, there's part of me that hopes he goes to jail, and another part of me that doesn't.
NICHOLAS: I know how you feel.
JOHN: Oh, yeah? You feeling a little confused, too?
NICHOLAS: Uh-huh, a little. (BEAT) I'm mad at him for lying to me and for hurting Auntie Viv and Ivan. And I think he should pay for the bad things he did.
VIVIAN: That's all right, darling. It's completely understandable that you feel that way.
NICHOLAS: But that's not all. (BEAT) I feel a little guilty.
JOHN: Guilty? Why?
NICHOLAS: Well... he's my dad. You're supposed to love your dad. But I hope my dad goes to jail...
VIVIAN: (PUTTING HER ARMS AROUND NICHOLAS) Oh, Nikki, come here... You shouldn't feel guilty.
JOHN: Vivian's right, Nikki. You're not the guilty one. But don't think there's anything wrong with feeling the way you do. We're all a little confused. It's okay.
NICHOLAS: (TURNING TO LOOK AT JOHN) Really?
JOHN: Really.
JOHN SMILES REASSURINGLY AT NICHOLAS, WHO SMILES BACK. HOLD ON NICHOLAS' SMILE.SHANE: I'll go ahead and get the message to Spencer.CUT TO: SALEM COUNTY COURTHOUSE. SHANE AND PEACHIE HAVE JUST ARRIVED THROUGH THE MAIN ENTRANCE.
PEACHIE: Hurry, Laddie. I'll wait here until you get back.
SHANE GOES OFF TOWARDS THE COURTROOMS. VICTOR COMES IN THE MAIN DOORS. PEACHIE AUTOMATICALLY TURNS AROUND TO SEE WHO IT IS.PEACHIE: (CONT'D) Well, I must say, Mr. Kiriakis, I didn't expect to see you here today...
VICTOR: How lovely to see you again, Miss Peach. I don't see why my presence is a surprise... Now that I'm directly involved in the case, I want to see the outcome for myself.
PEACHIE: Quite right. I haven't thanked you properly for turning over the evidence that proves Lawrence was behind that virus.
VICTOR: (BOWING SLIGHTLY) The pleasure was all mine. I've been waiting a long time to bring down Lawrence Alamain.
PEACHIE: Haven't we all?
VICTOR: I'm glad the ISA is finally giving me the chance to do it.
OUT ON VICTOR'S STEELY GRIN.
DONOVAN LIVING ROOM. EVE IS SITTING ON THE SOFA. SHE ABSENTLY FLIPS THROUGH A MAGAZINE, THEN TOSSES IT BACK ONTO THE COFFEE TABLE.EVE: It's not fair! Work always comes first with Dad. What I need isn't important...
EVE PAUSES TO COMPOSE HERSELF.EVE: (CONT'D) But I didn't mean to get mad at him earlier. I know that getting Lawrence Alamain is a big deal. And I did want to apologize to him. But he left without saying good-bye. Again.
EVE SIGHS, GETS UP AND HEADS TOWARDS THE KITCHEN.EVE: Pasta salad... bologna... tuna fish... something that's turning green...CUT TO: DONOVAN KITCHEN. EVE ENTERS, OPENS THE REFRIGERATOR, AND SURVEYS THE CONTENTS.
EVE PULLS THE LAST ITEM OUT TO GET A BETTER LOOK, AND IS AFFECTED BY THE SMELL.EVE: (CONT'D) (HOLDING HER NOSE) I think you're history.
SHE CLOSES THE REFRIGERATOR DOOR, AND DUMPS THE SPOILED FOOD IN THE TRASH.EVE: (CONT'D) Nothing sounds good. (BEAT) At least, nothing sounds good as a lunch-for-one.
EVE WALKS OVER TO THE TELEPHONE, AND DIALS. TWO-WAY.IAN: Euterpe.
EVE: Ian, it's Eve. (BEAT) Would you like to grab some lunch?
IAN: Yeah, I'd like to, but I can't today. (BEAT) We've got three different deliveries coming in, and I've got to sign for them and then take inventory. 'Rain check?
EVE: Oh... maybe. (RUSHING) I'll probably be busy when you're free. (BEAT) Well, don't let me keep you, Ian.
IAN: Bye...
EVE HANGS UP THE PHONE BEFORE IAN CAN FINISH.EVE: Nobody cares...
HOLD ON EVE.CHILDRESS: Finally, Mr. Carver, isn't it true that you, yourself, have been known to question and criticize the Salem Police Department?CUT TO: SALEM COUNTY COURTHOUSE. CHILDRESS IS CROSS-EXAMINING ABE. IN PROGRESS.
SPENCER: Objection, your honor. Irrelevant.
PARSONS: Sustained. Counsel, please limit your questions to those relevant to this case.
CHILDRESS: Yes, your honor. I have no further questions.
PARSONS: (TO SPENCER) Does counsel wish to redress?
SPENCER: No, your honor.
PARSONS: The witness may step down.
ABE STANDS UP FROM THE WITNESS STAND AND GOES TO SIT DOWN NEXT TO LEXIE.PARSONS: (CONT'D) Is the prosecution ready to call their next witness?
SPENCER: Yes, your honor.
AS SPENCER STANDS UP, JANET WALKS INTO THE COURTROOM. SEVERAL PEOPLE, INCLUDING SPENCER TURN TO LOOK. JANET WALKS UP TO SPENCER AND HANDS HIM A SLIP OF PAPER. HE READS THE PAPER, THEN LOOKS UP TO PARSONS.SPENCER: (CONT'D) Your honor, may we approach the bench?
PARSONS: Yes, you may.
SPENCER AND CHILDRESS WALK UP TO THE BENCH.SPENCER: I need a conference in chambers.
CHILDRESS: I don't see the point. Is it necessary?
SPENCER: I believe it is necessary.
PARSONS: I'm curious as to what this is all about. Counsel will meet in chambers. (BEAT) This better be worth it, Mr. Hanlon.
SPENCER: It will.
SPENCER AND CHILDRESS WALK BACK TO THEIR SEATS.PARSONS: (TO THE COURT) I'm calling a recess. May I remind the members of the jury not to discuss this case amongst yourselves or with anyone else during this time.
PARSONS BANGS THE GAVEL TO DECLARE RECESS. IN THE BACK OF THE ROOM, DIANE SLIPS DISCREETLY OUT THE DOOR.JACK: (READING) And thus, it is imperative that the toxic waste dump that CorLanRei wants to place in our fair city never be built. The existence of such a site would irrevocably damage the fabric of life in Salem; this short-sighted move is purely profit driven on CorLanRei's part, and would be devastating to all of our futures.CUT TO: JACK'S OFFICE. JACK IS SITTING AT HIS DESK, PROOF-READING HIS EDITORIAL.
JACK SMILES, PUTS DOWN THE PAPER, AND TURNS TO HIS COMPUTER.JACK: (CONT'D) Now, I'll just email this to Vern...
AS JACK TYPES THE NECESSARY COMMANDS, THE PHONE RINGS. JACK FINISHES SENDING THE FILE, THEN ANSWERS THE PHONE. TWO-WAY.JACK: (CONT'D) Jack Deveraux.
DIANE: Jack, it's Diane. I think you ought to get down to the courthouse. (BEAT) Judge Parsons just granted the D.A. a forty-five minute recess.
JACK: And this is important because...
DIANE: I've been hearing rumors all morning that the D.A.'s office has some new evidence, and a mystery witness.
JACK: Any idea on who it is?
DIANE: No. Hanlon and company are guarding this secret like their lives depend on it. (BEAT) I think the Feds are involved.
JACK: (MUSING) This could be big... I'll be there before the recess ends.
OUT ON JACK'S INTEREST.
ALICE'S RESTAURANT. JO AND VERN ARE SEATED AT A BOOTH, SIPPING ICE TEAS.JO: Vern, I want to thank you for the lunch invitation.
VERN: My pleasure... You know I enjoy your company.
VERN SMILES AND JO REACHES ACROSS THE TABLE AND PATS HIS HAND.JO: And I enjoy yours. But this week... this week... has been hard.
VERN: The trial?
JO: What else? I can't stop thinking about Steve, Nick and Lawrence. (BEAT) Two men dead because of Lawrence's evil... And nothing can bring them back...
VERN: I know it's small consolation. But I hear through the Spectator grapevine that the D.A. has found some new evidence.
JO: What kind of evidence?
VERN: No one knows for sure. But according to our source, it's enough to put away Alamain for a long time.
JO: How long is a long time?
VERN: I don't know the charges... 20 to life... who knows?
JO: Is twenty years worth a life?
VERN: (HESITANT) I don't know...
JO: Is a life worth a life?
VERN: Jo... I...
JO: Don't worry, Vern. I know the answer. Picking up that gun and shooting Nick did not bring back my son... And nothing ever can.
HOLD ON JO'S GRIEF.JACK: And you haven't heard anything at all on this witness? (BEAT) Nary a peep, huh? (BEAT) Well, I'd appreciate it if you'd keep an ear open. (BEAT) Uh-huh. Bye.CUT TO: JACK'S OFFICE. JACK IS ON THE PHONE, ONE-WAY.
JACK HANGS UP THE PHONE.JACK: (CONT'D) None of them! (BEAT) I'll give the D.A.'s office credit this time... My sources don't have a clue as to who this mystery witness is. Guess I'll just have to go down to the courthouse and find out for myself.
JACK CHECKS HIS POCKET TO MAKE SURE HE'S GOT HIS PRESS PASS, PICKS UP HIS PORTFOLIO, AND STARTS TO LEAVE. AS HE OPENS THE OFFICE DOOR, HE FINDS JULIE STANDING THERE, PREPARING TO KNOCK ON THE DOOR.JULIE: 'Psychic, Jack?
JACK: No, in a hurry. I need to get to the courthouse. (BEAT) Diane says that the D.A. has new evidence against Lawrence, and maybe a surprise witness.
JULIE: Then let me go with you, Jack. (BEAT) If Lawrence is going to get his, I'd like to be there to see it.
JACK: Do you have your press badge?
JULIE: (TAPPING HER PURSE) Right in here.
JACK: Good. We'll take my car. (CHECKING HIS WATCH) We should get there before the recess ends. This could be good...
HOLD ON JACK AND JULIE RUSHING OUT THE DOOR.SPENCER: I am honored to meet you, Miss Peach. Your reputation is legendary.CUT TO: SPENCER'S OFFICE. SPENCER USHERS PEACHIE IN AND GESTURES TO A SEAT. HE WALKS AROUND HIS DESK AND SITS DOWN.
PEACHIE: Oh go on, you make me sound like I belong in a museum! And please, call me Peachie, everyone does.
SPENCER: Shane was being so secretive about your identity that I wasn't sure if I'd ever get to meet my mysterious benefactor.
PEACHIE: I had to keep a low profile until I had the full support of my superiors to assist the District Attorney's office. You understand policy, I'm sure.
SPENCER: Certainly. I'm just glad you're here now. (BEAT) I didn't get that much information over the phone. What can you tell me about this witness the ISA is sending?
PEACHIE: Everything.
SPENCER: We haven't got much time... how about the short version? Which of the charges is this witness going to testify about?
PEACHIE: None of them, actually. These are new charges.
SPENCER MAKES A STEEPLE OF HIS FINGERS AND LEANS BACK IN HIS CHAIR.SPENCER: Oh? What are they?
PEACHIE: Conspiracy to commit murder... and murder.
SPENCER QUICKLY LEANS FORWARD IN HIS CHAIR, SHOCKED. SLOWLY HE GRINS. OUT ON SPENCER'S GLEE.
SALEM COUNTY COURTHOUSE. PEACHIE HAS REJOINED SHANE AND THEY ARE WALKING TOWARD THE COURTROOM WHERE LAWRENCE'S TRIAL IS BEING HELD. JANET APPEARS FROM A SIDE CORRIDOR.JANET: (SMILING) Captain Donovan!
SHANE: Hello, Captain Yamada.
PEACHIE CLEARS HER THROAT.SHANE: (CONT'D) Peachie, this is Captain Janet Yamada of the Salem Police Department. Captain Yamada, Miss Peach. (BEAT) An... old friend of mine.
JANET AND PEACHIE SHAKE HANDS.JANET: It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Peach.
PEACHIE: Oh, the pleasure's mine, Captain Yamada.
JANET: Please, call me Janet. (TO SHANE) So, Captain Donovan, would Miss Peach be the source whose identity you so diligently protected?
PEACHIE: (BEFORE SHANE CAN RESPOND) I'm afraid so. (BEAT) Don't hold it against him, dear. We all have our rules to follow.
JANET: Believe me, I know. (BEAT) I feel like I already know so much about you. Although I didn't realize you were his source, he speaks so glowingly of you as his partner.
PEACHIE: I feel the same way. The Laddie has mentioned you on quite a few occasions.
PEACHIE PULLS JANET ASIDE, OUT OF SHANE'S EARSHOT. SHANE RAISES AN EYEBROW, BUT DOESN'T FOLLOW.PEACHIE: (CONT'D) (QUIETLY) He speaks quite favorably of you.
JANET: (INTRIGUED) Oh?
PEACHIE: Yes. (BEAT) I do believe he fancies you.
JANET: (EMBARRASSED) Oh... I don't know. We're just friends.
PEACHIE: No need to be coy... Janet.
STILL EMBARRASSED, JANET LAUGHS. SHANE REJOINS THEM.SHANE: (SUSPICIOUSLY) All right... what's going on over here?
PEACHIE: (INNOCENCE) Oh... nothing.
SHANE LOOKS AT JANET, WHO ONLY SMILES SHYLY.SHANE: Are you two talking about me?
PEACHIE AND JANET SMILE INNOCENTLY AT SHANE.SHANE: (CONT'D) (SMILING RESIGNEDLY) Come on, let's find a seat in the courtroom...
SHANE HEADS TOWARD THE COURTROOM. PEACHIE FOLLOWS. JANET PAUSES, WATCHING SHANE. HOLD ON JANET'S CONTEMPLATION.VERN: I think you're being too hard on yourself, Jo.CUT TO: ALICE'S RESTAURANT. VERN AND JO. IN PROGRESS.
JO: Thank you, Vern, but I'm just facing facts...
VERN: I don't know. (BEAT) I think I can imagine how you must have felt, right after Steve died.
JO: Oh?
VERN: Your son had been taken from you. All you could think about was taking something away from the man who had done it. (BEAT) You wanted an eye for an eye.
JO: I guess I did.
VERN: I think it's perfectly normal that you would have felt that way.
JO: It may have been normal, but it wasn't right. I realize that now.
VERN TAKES JO'S HAND.JO: (CONT'D) I was overcome... with grief, with anger... I wasn't thinking clearly.
VERN: That's my point. You were under incredible strain, and it made you behave in a way that you wouldn't normally behave.
JO: That's still no justification for what I did. I killed a man.
VERN: That was then. This is now. You're not under the same pressures as you were back then.
JO: No, but that doesn't erase what I did. (BEAT) I have to live with it for the rest of my life.
VERN: I wish there was something I could do to help.
JO: (PATTING VERN'S HAND) You've been wonderful, Vern. (BEAT) Just knowing that you're there for me is a great comfort.
VERN: I hope that, if you need me, you'll ask.
JO: I will. (SIGHS)
VERN: What is it?
JO: I was thinking... It really wouldn't have mattered whether I killed Nick, or whether he'd been arrested and put in jail for killing Steve.
VERN: What do you mean?
JO: (SADLY) No matter what I would have done, Steve would still be dead. (BEAT) My son is gone, and nothing can bring him back. (LONG BEAT) Nothing.
HOLD ON JO'S SADNESS.JACK: What else have you learned? (BEAT) Anything new on the evidence? Who the mystery witness is?CUT TO: SALEM COUNTY COURTHOUSE/COURTROOM. JACK AND JULIE ENTER. JULIE SPOTS DIANE SITTING UP NEAR THE FRONT. JACK AND JULIE QUICKLY REACH DIANE, AND SIT ON EITHER SIDE OF HER.
DIANE: So far, I've been able to confirm that there is some new evidence, and that there will be an unscheduled witness arriving shortly. (BEAT) And if the judge allows it, there's going to be new charges filed, and there won't be a separate trial for them.
JULIE: Any idea on what the charges are?
DIANE: Not yet, but they are supposed to be substantial. (BEAT) The attorneys are in with the Judge right now.
JACK: (GRINNING) Well... let's hope that these new charges will mean a few more years of license plate manufacturing for Lawrence.
OUT ON JACK.
JUDGE PARSONS' CHAMBERS. PARSONS IS BEHIND HIS DESK, WITH SPENCER ACROSS FROM HIM IN A GUEST CHAIR, LOOKING FAIRLY RELAXED. CHILDRESS, ON THE OTHER HAND, IS STANDING, AND APPEARS AGITATED. IN PROGRESS.CHILDRESS: I must again object. It is far too late in the trial to bring new charges up against my client.
SPENCER: Your Honor, the new counts were discovered during investigation of the crimes for which Mr. Alamain is currently on trial. The D.A.'s office can hardly disregard evidence of further wrongdoing simply because the timing is inconvenient for the defense...
CHILDRESS: Inconvenient! Miscarriage of justice is more like....
PARSONS: Mr. Childress, I'll remind you to watch your tone...
SPENCER LOOKS PLEASED.PARSONS: (CONT'D) And as for you, Mr. Hanlon, I'll warn you now, I'm not in the mood for any legal "bait and switch" games, throwing lesser charges out in the proceedings in order to buy time.
SPENCER: I assure you, the State intends to prove Mr. Alamain's guilt beyond a shadow of a doubt on all charges.
CHILDRESS GLARES AT SPENCER, WHO SMILES BACK. CHILDRESS TAKES THE OTHER GUEST CHAIR AS THE JUDGE PONDERS FOR A MOMENT. THE JUDGE CLEARS HIS THROAT.PARSONS: I've decided... the court will allow the new charges to be filed...
SPENCER: (INTERRUPTING) The paperwork is already completed awaiting your decision, Your Honor...
PARSONS: (SLIGHTLY ANNOYED) As I was saying, I will allow the charges, and the new evidence and witness...
SPENCER: Thank you...
PARSONS: Let me finish... I'm allowing this largely to provide Mr. Alamain a speedy trial, and to avoid wasting taxpayer's money on a new pre-trial hearing, or a potential mistrial.
SPENCER: We're ready for our witness today.
CHILDRESS: Your Honor, please! The defense will have no time to prepare an adequate cross. We'll need at least a day to do so.
PARSONS: Mr. Hanlon, you may call your witness today...
CHILDRESS PREPARES TO SPEAK AND PARSONS HOLDS UP HIS HAND TO FORESTALL HIS NEXT OBJECTION.PARSONS: (CONT'D) Mr. Childress, I am inclined to adjourn the court after Mr. Hanlon's questioning is completed, to allow the defense time to plan your cross-examination. Is that agreeable?
SPENCER: Most certainly, Your Honor.
CHILDRESS: (GRUDGINGLY) Yes, Your Honor.
HOLD ON SPENCER'S SATISFIED GRINEVE: (READING) "Safari: The Adventure of a Lifetime." (BEAT) I don't think so...CUT TO: EVE'S BEDROOM. EVE WALKS IN AND PLOPS ONTO THE BED. SHE PICKS UP THE REMOTE CONTROL TO HER STEREO AND A TRAVEL MAGAZINE OFF OF HER NIGHTSTAND. SHE OPENS THE MAGAZINE UP.
EVE HITS THE POWER BUTTON ON THE REMOTE, TURNING THE RADIO ON.RADIO: (V.O.) It's 2:50 here at WDAY. I'm the Quizmaster, and here's a classic from the early 80s from Sheena Easton.
THE SONG "WIND BENEATH MY WINGS".EVE: No...
EVE QUICKLY GRABS THE REMOTE, AND TURNS OFF THE STEREO.EVE: (CONT'D) Not that song...
EVE GETS UP FROM THE BED, AND WALKS OVER TO THE DRESSER. SHE PICKS UP A PICTURE OF HERSELF AND NICK TOGETHER. EVE CARRIES THE PHOTO BACK TO THE BED AND SHE SITS DOWN. SHE SMILES SLIGHTLY.EVE: (CONT'D) Okay, I can handle this...
EVE TURNS THE STEREO BACK ON. "WIND BENEATH MY WINGS" IS STILL PLAYING. FADE TO: WINGS. EVE IS SINGING THIS SONG, AND NICK IS WATCHING HER INTENTLY. FADE OUT: BACK TO EVE'S BEDROOM. EVE TURNS OFF THE STEREO, AND STANDS UP.EVE: (CONT'D) (LOOKING AT THE PHOTO) You loved me once, Nick. (BEAT) But you left.
EVE PUTS THE PHOTO BACK ON THE DRESSER.EVE: (CONT'D) Now, I'm alone. (BEAT) I'll never find anyone who can love me like you did.
A SINGLE TEAR FALLS DOWN EVE'S CHEEK.EVE: (CONT'D) No one.
HOLD ON EVE'S PAIN.BAILIFF: All rise...CUT TO: SALEM COUNTY COURTHOUSE/COURTROOM. EVERYONE IS SETTLED BACK INTO THE COURTROOM. SPENCER, CHILDRESS, AND LAWRENCE ARE ALL SEATED. THE BAILIFF GOES TO THE REAR DOOR AND OPENS IT.
EVERYONE STANDS AS JUDGE PARSONS ENTERS. JUDGE PARSONS GOES TO THE BENCH AND SITS DOWN.PARSONS: Be seated.
EVERYONE SITS DOWN.PARSONS: (CONT'D) All right, ladies and gentlemen... Before we proceed, I'll bring you up to date. (BEAT) Let the record show that new charges have been filed against the defendant. The charges are murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
LAWRENCE, ENRAGED, STANDS UP.LAWRENCE: What the hell is this?!
PARSONS: (BANGING HIS GAVEL) Sit down, Mr. Alamain!
LAWRENCE TURNS TO CHILDRESS AND GRABS THE LAPEL OF HIS JACKET.LAWRENCE: What's going on here? How could you let this happen?
PARSONS: Mr. Alamain, unless you'd like me to add a contempt charge to your impressive list, you will sit down this instant!
CHILDRESS: Lawrence, you'd better do what he says...
THE BAILIFF MOVES MENACINGLY TOWARD LAWRENCE. LAWRENCE SEES HIM APPROACH AND SITS DOWN.PARSONS: That's better. (BEAT) Now, as I was saying, new charges have been filed. I have allowed these new charges because they are the result of new evidence that was just made available to the court. I have also allowed an addition to the prosecution's list of witnesses. This new witness has been under protective custody, and the court has just been made aware of him.
GO TO: LAWRENCE AND CHILDRESS.LAWRENCE: (ANGRILY) You'd better do something about this, or you can kiss your career good-bye.
CHILDRESS: Try to stay calm...
LAWRENCE: I'll be calm when you've gotten me out of this mess!
GO TO: JUDGE PARSONS.PARSONS: Now, I'm sure we all know what the answer will be, but let's have it stated for the record. (BEAT) Mr. Alamain, how do you plead to these new charges?
LAWRENCE: (STANDING, BARELY CONTAINING HIS ANGER) Not guilty.
PARSONS: Very well. (TO SPENCER) Is the prosecution ready to call its next witness?
SPENCER: (STANDING) Yes, Your Honor.
PARSONS: Proceed.
SPENCER: (TURNING TO FACE THE SPECTATORS) The people call Nick Corelli.
THE SPECTATORS STARE AT SPENCER IN SHOCK.LAWRENCE Did you know about this?GO TO: LAWRENCE AND CHILDRESS.
CHILDRESS: I just found out.
LAWRENCE: (THREATENINGLY) You'd better have a plan to deal with this.
CHILDRESS TUGS UNCOMFORTABLY AT HIS COLLAR.JACK: Nick Corelli?GO TO: JACK, JULIE, AND DIANE.
JULIE: But he's...
DIANE: He's dead. He was shot by... (STOPPING HERSELF)
JACK: Jo Johnson...
GO TO: THE MAIN COURTROOM DOORS. THE DOORS OPEN. TWO MEN IN DARK SUITS ENTER. THEN, NICK CORELLI SLOWLY WALKS INTO THE COURTROOM, A GRIM LOOK ON HIS FACE. EVERYONE IN THE COURTROOM TURNS TO STARE AT NICK, THEIR MOUTHS AGAPE. NICK TUGS AT THE CUFFS OF HIS JACKET AND LOOKS AROUND THE ROOM. HOLD ON NICK. AND OUT. FADE TO BLACK.
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