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An ALT.DAYS Production,
A Division of Peel Productions, Inc.
Air Date: October 4, 1994
Time: Several Days After #71,
Morning to Evening
Copyright 1994
SMALL NURSES' STATION / LOUNGE. MAGGIE AND BILL ARE STANDING AT THE NURSES' STATION WITH A GROUP OF OTHER STAFF MEMBERS. ONE OF THE NURSES, SANDRA, IS HOLDING A BALLOON THAT SAYS "WELCOME BACK" AND ONE OF THE RESIDENTS, DR. AMAN, HAS A BOUQUET OF FLOWERS. THEY ARE ALL ANXIOUSLY WATCHING THE ELEVATOR DOORS. WHEN THEY OPEN, ALICE STEPS OUT HOLDING A SHOPPING BAG. WHEN EVERYONE APPLAUDS ALICE LOOKS BEHIND HER TO SEE WHO THE FUSS IS FOR. MAGGIE GOES AND HUGS HER.
MAGGIE: You're the celebrity! Welcome back!
SANDRA AND DR. AMAN STEP FORWARD AND PRESENT ALICE WITH THE BALLOON AND FLOWERS.
SANDRA: We missed you! This place isn't the same without you!
DR. AMAN: Promise you won't go away again!
ALICE: (TOUCHED) I'm overwhelmed. Thank you, everyone. What a lovely way to start the day. I missed all of you, too, and I'm glad to be back.
ALICE HOLDS UP THE SHOPPING BAG.
ALICE: (CONT'D) And I didn't forget the donuts!
THE CROWD CHEERS AS ALICE HANDS THE SHOPPING BAG TO ONE OF THE NURSES. AN IMPROMPTU CONGA LINE STARTS UP AS THE DONUTS ARE CEREMONIOUSLY USHERED INTO THE LOUNGE. MOST OF THE STAFF STOP TO KISS ALICE ON THE CHEEK OR HUG HER AS THEY GO BY.
BILL: There's been a buzz of excitement since the word got out that you were coming back today.
ALICE: That's sweet. I missed being here... but I needed some time away.
MAGGIE: Everyone understands that.
ALICE: (LOOKING AROUND) Everything about the hospital is so tied to Tom.
BILL: Yes. It's easy to forget that he's gone sometimes.
ALICE: Even now, I half expect to see him walk around the corner.
MAGGIE AND BILL NOD IN AGREEMENT. HOLD ON THE QUIET MOMENT.
CUT TO: SALEM INN. A SMALL BREAKFAST "FEAST" IS SET UP ON THE TABLE, INCLUDING FRENCH TOAST AND BLUEBERRY PANCAKES, BACON, FRESH PAPAYA, SCRAMBLED EGGS, CRANBERRY JUICE, AND JELLY DONUTS, WITH ALL THE ACCOUTREMENTS. VIVIAN AND IVAN ARE PUTTING THE FINISHING TOUCHES ON THE TABLE, AS NICHOLAS COMES FROM HIS BEDROOM.
NICHOLAS: Good mor... oh wow! What is all this?! This is amazing!!
VIVIAN: Good morning, and happy birthday, my little love.
IVAN: Happy Birthday, Master Nicholas!
NICHOLAS: Thanks! Wow! Is this for me?
VIVIAN: Of course it is... all your favorites!
NICHOLAS: Oh, this is so great! Cranberry juice... and Papayas! I haven't had those in a long time.
IVAN: Yes, and my famous scrambled eggs, with cheese and basil.
NICHOLAS: Yum!! Can I start?
VIVIAN: (LAUGHING) Of course, darling. Bon appetit!
NICHOLAS: This is so great!
NICHOLAS BEGINS FILLING HIS PLATE.
VIVIAN: I wanted to make this birthday extra-special. I know it hasn't been an easy year for you...
IVAN: For any of us.
VIVIAN: Indeed. And so I thought a little celebration was in order.
NICHOLAS: (WITH HIS MOUTH FULL OF PANCAKE) This is the best!
VIVIAN: And this is only the beginning!
NICHOLAS: You mean there's more!?!
IVAN: You don't think your Aunt Vivian would content herself with only a breakfast, do you?
NICHOLAS: (EXCITED) What else is there? What do you have planned?
VIVIAN: Oh, I couldn't possibly tell you. But I will show you... a little later. After we do justice to this monumental breakfast!
HOLD ON THE THREE ENJOYING BREAKFAST.
CUT TO: BO'S BOAT / INTERIOR. BO AND SHAWN-DOUGLAS ARE SITTING DOWN FOR BREAKFAST. SHAWN-DOUGLAS IS FIDGETY, AND IS NOT REALLY TOUCHING HIS FOOD.
BO: What's wrong, Sailor? Cornflakes too mushy?
SHAWN-D: No, they're okay, Papa. I just can't stop thinking about Nikki's party today.
BO: Pretty excited about it, huh?
SHAWN-D: Yeah. I can't wait. It's gonna be so much fun!
BO: That was nice of Vivian to ask you for party ideas.
SHAWN-D: It sure was! She made me feel really important. Do you think she'll use any of my ideas?
BO: I think she's going to use all of your ideas.
SHAWN-D: Really?
BO: Yes, really. (BEAT) Now, Shawn-D, we'll never get to the party unless you finish your cereal.
SHAWN-D: Yes, Papa.
SHAWN-DOUGLAS TAKES ONE BITE OF HIS BREAKFAST, THEN LOOKS BACK UP AT BO.
SHAWN-D: (CONT'D) I wonder what flavor the cake will be. I hope it's chocolate... I mean, I know it's Nikki's favorite, too. (BEAT) I hope he likes our present. If he doesn't, we can always get another kind, right Papa?
BO SMILES, AS SHAWN-DOUGLAS CONTINUES TO CHATTER EXCITEDLY ABOUT THE PARTY. OUT ON BO'S AMUSEMENT.
SMALL NURSES' STATION / LOUNGE. ALICE, MAGGIE, AND BILL. IN PROGRESS.
MAGGIE: I know exactly what you mean, Alice. Not a day goes by that I don't see or hear something around here that reminds me of Tom.
BILL: Sometimes, when I see memos addressed to the Chief of Staff, I have to remind myself that they're for me, and not for Dad.
MAGGIE: His spirit is very much alive in this hospital. It always will be.
BILL: (SMILING) I'm counting on it. (BEAT) That spirit is one of my primary sources of support and guidance.
ALICE: You're right, Bill. (BEAT) It's reassuring, in a way, to know that Tom is watching over me... watching over all of us.
THREE NURSES, CINDY, SALLY, AND DIANA, WALK OVER TO ALICE.
ALICE: (CONT'D) Hello, ladies.
CINDY: Hi, Mrs. Horton. (BEAT) We didn't want to interrupt, but we wanted to let you know how happy we are that you're back.
SALLY: Yes, it just wasn't the same around here without you.
ALICE: (SMILING) Oh, I'm sure everyone carried on fine without me. But thank you for the kind thoughts.
DIANA: Don't kid yourself... This is a very different place without the Alice Horton touch. (BEAT) Welcome back.
ALICE: Thank you, dear. It's good to be back.
THE NURSES EXIT.
BILL: Well, Mom, now you've seen with your own eyes how much you've been missed around here.
ALICE: (TEASING) And all the time I was away, I thought you were just telling me that to cheer me up...
MAGGIE: Not at all! Everyone around here has missed you terribly.
ALICE: (SMILING) I wonder what people missed more... Me, or my donuts?
BILL AND MAGGIE LOOK STUNNED, THEN REALIZE ALICE IS JOKING. THE THREE OF THEM LAUGH. HOLD ON ALICE'S SMILE.
CUT TO: SALEM INN. NICHOLAS FINISHES UP HIS BREAKFAST, AND LOOKS UP AT VIVIAN.
NICHOLAS: That was great! What's next?
VIVIAN SMILES MISCHIEVOUSLY AT NICHOLAS.
VIVIAN: That's for me to know, and for you not to find out. Now, why don't you run off to your room to get dressed?
NICHOLAS: All right. (SNEAKY) So, how should I dress?
VIVIAN: Very clever, young man. You may dress however you like.
NICHOLAS: Aw, Aunt Viv, you're no fun. C'mon, just a tiny clue?
VIVIAN: I don't think so. But, if you don't get dressed, you'll never find out.
NICHOLAS: (STANDING) I'm going.
NICHOLAS GOES INTO HIS ROOM. IVAN FINISHES GATHERING THE BREAKFAST DISHES AND APPROACHES VIVIAN. ONCE VIVIAN SEES THAT NICHOLAS IS OUT OF EARSHOT, SHE TURNS TO IVAN.
VIVIAN: (HUSHED WHISPER) Is everything set up for the party?
IVAN: I believe so, Madame. Mr. Williams has all of your instructions, and I just confirmed that the private dining room is reserved for Master Nicholas' celebration.
VIVIAN: Good. I want this to be one birthday that Nikki will never forget.
IVAN: You have certainly made it elaborate enough.
VIVIAN: Nothing is too good for my Nikki. I want him to be happy.
IVAN: He certainly seemed happy this morning.
VIVIAN: Yes, I'm glad. I was worried after the other night when we were going over our plans to return to Europe.
IVAN: I thought you were looking forward to the move?
VIVIAN: I am... It's Nikki that I'm worried about. He was very polite, and agreed that our move was a good decision, but still... he seemed a little sad.
IVAN: He will adjust. It may take some time.
VIVIAN: Yes, I'm sure you're right... as always, Ivan.
IVAN RESPONDS TO VIVIAN'S COMMENT WITH A SMILE. NICHOLAS BOUNDS INTO THE ROOM, ALL DRESSED AND READY FOR THE DAY.
NICHOLAS: I'm ready!
VIVIAN: Indeed you are. Is the car ready, Ivan?
IVAN: Yes, the driver is waiting for us.
VIVIAN: Good. Shall we?
NICHOLAS WALKS OVER TO IVAN, WHILE VIVIAN GOES TO GATHER HER PURSE.
NICHOLAS: Ivan, do you know where we're going? Aunt Viv, won't even give me a clue.
IVAN: I am sorry, Master Nicholas. Your aunt has sworn me to secrecy.
NICHOLAS: Darn. (SUDDENLY, NICHOLAS GETS AN IDEA) How about if you write it down for me on a piece of paper? That way Aunt Viv can't prove that you told me.
VIVIAN WALKS UP, HOLDING HER PURSE.
VIVIAN: Nice try, darling. Stop badgering poor Ivan. He'll never reveal anything to you.
NICHOLAS: How about this? What letter of the alphabet does it start with?
VIVIAN: (IGNORING NICHOLAS' QUESTION) Let's go, Nikki.
VIVIAN, NICHOLAS, AND IVAN WALK OUT THE DOOR. NICHOLAS CONTINUES TO PLAY TWENTY QUESTIONS WITH VIVIAN AND IVAN. HOLD ON THE THREE.
CUT TO: BRADY'S BEDROOM. JOHN IS DRESSING BRADY FOR NICHOLAS' PARTY. BRADY IS ALREADY WEARING BLUE JEANS AND HIGH TOP SNEAKERS. JOHN PULLS TWO SHIRTS OUT OF THE DRESSER DRAWER AND HOLDS THEM UP FOR BRADY.
JOHN: Whaddaya think, slugger? White or green?
BRADY: Green!
JOHN: Green it is.
JOHN PUTS THE WHITE SHIRT AWAY AND TAKES THE GREEN SHIRT OVER TO BRADY. BRADY GRABS THE SHIRT.
JOHN: (CONT'D) Here you go, let me help you with that...
BRADY: Myself!
JOHN: (BACKING OFF) Oh... okay. Gonna do it yourself, like a big boy, huh?
BRADY: Big boy!
BRADY PULLS THE SHIRT OVER HIS HEAD. HE PUTS HIS ARM THROUGH THE NECK HOLE AND SOON BECOMES TANGLED.
JOHN: (GRINNING) Need a little help, slugger?
BRADY: No! Myself!
BRADY STRUGGLES A LITTLE LONGER WITH THE SHIRT. HE FINALLY GIVES UP AND SITS STILL, HIS ARM STILL PROTRUDING FROM THE NECK HOLE.
BRADY: (CONT'D) Daddy help?
JOHN: Okay... what do you say?
BRADY: Daddy help... now?
JOHN: No, try again.
BRADY: Please?
JOHN: (SMILING) That's the word!
JOHN HELPS BRADY GET UNTANGLED FROM THE SHIRT AND GETS HIS LIMBS THROUGH THE PROPER HOLES. ONCE THE SHIRT IS ON, JOHN SMOOTHS BRADY'S TOUSLED HAIR INTO PLACE.
JOHN: (CONT'D) There you go, kiddo. Dressed to kill and lookin' mighty handsome.
BRADY: (GRINNING) Han-some!
JOHN: Yep. All ready to wow the girls at the birthday party!
BRADY: Birfday? Brady birfday?
JOHN: No, it's not your birthday. It's cousin Nikki's birthday.
BRADY: Nik-ki!
JOHN: Uh-huh. (BEAT, CONTEMPLATING) Y'know, I think you have a lot in common with your cousin. You're both smart, both handsome... I hope you grow up to be a good kid, just like Nikki.
BRADY: Good kid!
JOHN: On the other hand, I don't want you to have to deal with the family messes that Nikki's had to face. (BEAT) He's come through like a trooper, but I know it's been tough for him.
BRADY BEGINS TO FIDGET, SO JOHN PICKS HIM UP.
JOHN: (CONT'D) I promise you, no matter what, I'll always be the kind of father that you can look up to and respect. (BEAT) I'll always be there for you. Always. (BEAT) I can't be sure of who, or what, I used to be, but you can bet that I'm gonna be in control of the kind of person I am from here on out.
BRADY: Good kid!
JOHN: (CHUCKLING) Yeah, I'm going to be a good kid from now on. Just like you. (BEAT) 'You ready to go to the party?
BRADY: Birfday party!
JOHN: All right, let's get going.
BRADY GRINS AND CLAPS. JOHN KISSES HIM ON THE FOREHEAD. OUT ON JOHN'S PRIDE.
EUTERPE. VIVIAN, IVAN AND NICHOLAS ARRIVE AT EUTERPE. DAVE WINKS AT VIVIAN AND IVAN.
DAVE: Ah, Nicholas Alamain! Just the person I've been waiting for!
NICHOLAS: Me? Really?
DAVE: Absolutely! I hear it's your birthday today. (PUTTING OUT HIS HAND) And let me congratulate you on being another year older.
NICHOLAS: (SHAKING DAVE'S HAND) Thank you.
DAVE GESTURES TO THE PRIVATE DINING ROOM ENTRANCE.
DAVE: Now, if you'll come right this way, I trust the accommodations will be to your liking.
NICHOLAS LOOKS QUESTIONINGLY AT VIVIAN AND IVAN. THEY NOD ENCOURAGINGLY AND SMILE. NICHOLAS FOLLOWS DAVE TO THE DOOR WITH VIVIAN AND IVAN FOLLOWING BEHIND.
DAVE: (CONT'D) And, Ms. Alamain tells me that you'll be having some guests this afternoon. We'll do everything we can to make them comfortable, but if you need anything, anything at all, you just call on me. Nothing but the best for the birthday boy.
NICHOLAS: Gee, thanks!
DAVE DEPARTS WITH ANOTHER WINK. VIVIAN NODS TOWARDS THE DOOR.
VIVIAN: Go on, open the door and see the surprise.
NICHOLAS GOES INSIDE FOLLOWED BY VIVIAN AND IVAN.
CUT TO: EUTERPE / PRIVATE DINING ROOM. IT HAS BEEN TRANSFORMED INTO A SPACE ODYSSEY. THE WALLS HAVE BEEN COVERED WITH BLACK FABRIC. GLOW-IN-THE-DARK STARS AND PLANETS ARE SUSPENDED FROM THE CEILING. SCALE MODELS OF SPACESHIPS AND ROBOTS DECORATE THE TABLES. ALONG ONE WALL IS A BANK OF VIDEO GAMES. IN ANOTHER CORNER ARE TWO VIRTUAL REALITY CHAIRS, ONE FOR BASEBALL AND ONE FOR JUNGLE SAFARI. IN YET ANOTHER CORNER IS AN ACTUAL SPACE SUIT FOR THE KIDS TO TRY ON.
NICHOLAS: Wow!
VIVIAN: I take it that means you like it?
NICHOLAS: Like it!? This is the coolest thing ever!
NICHOLAS RUNS OFF TO CHECK OUT ALL THE GAMES AND DECORATIONS. BO AND SHAWN-DOUGLAS ARRIVE. THEY ALSO STAND IN AWE LOOKING AT THE ROOM.
NICHOLAS: (CONT'D) Shawn-D! C'mere! You gotta see this!
SHAWN-DOUGLAS BOUNCES OVER TO NICHOLAS.
BO: Hello, Vivian. Ivan. (BEAT) This is some set-up. (LAUGHING) My cake and ice cream plan for the Sailor's birthday party is going to go over like a lead balloon now.
VIVIAN: I just wanted Nicholas to have a wonderful day.
IVAN: (NODDING TO THE BOYS) It certainly looks like he will.
DAVE ENTERS FOLLOWED BY KEN, WHO'S CARRYING A TRAY OF SODAS.
DAVE: How is everything, Ms. Alamain?
VIVIAN: (GRINNING) Perfect, Dave. Absolutely perfect.
HOLD ON VIVIAN'S SATISFACTION.
CUT TO: SMALL NURSES' STATION / LOUNGE. ALICE IS TALKING TO A YOUNG GIRL IN A WHEELCHAIR.
ALICE: Now, I don't want you to worry about a thing, Katie. The doctors said that you'll be going home tomorrow.
KATIE: (SADLY) But, I still miss my Boo-Boo bear.
ALICE BENDS DOWN AND TAKES KATIE'S HAND.
ALICE: How about if I have the nurse call your mom and ask her to bring Boo-Boo here today? That way, you'll have him to sleep with tonight. Would you like that?
KATIE: (SMILING AND NODDING HER HEAD) Oh, thank you Mrs. Horton!
ALICE HUGS KATIE. A NURSE WALKS UP TO THEM.
NURSE: It's time for your lunch, Katie.
KATIE: Okay. Bye-bye, Mrs. Horton!
ALICE WAVES AS THE NURSE WHEELS KATIE TO HER ROOM. MAGGIE WALKS UP TO ALICE.
MAGGIE: How is your day going so far, Alice?
ALICE: (SMILES) Fine. I'm enjoying talking with the patients, and bringing a smile to their faces.
MAGGIE: It's what you do best. Everyone's so glad to have you back here.
ALICE: I'm happy to be back. (BEAT) It feels like home.
THE ELEVATOR DOORS OPEN, AND MICKEY WALKS OUT.
MAGGIE: Mickey! This is a surprise.
MICKEY KISSES MAGGIE.
MICKEY: A good one, I hope.
MAGGIE: Naturally.
MICKEY GIVES ALICE A KISS.
MICKEY: How is your first day back at the hospital, Mom?
ALICE: I feel like I'm getting the hang of it again. I missed being here.
MICKEY: That's great. Just remember to take it easy on yourself.
ALICE: I will. (BEAT) So, what brings you here today?
MICKEY: I came here to take my wife to lunch.
MAGGIE: What?! It this a special occasion?
MICKEY: Yes, indeed! I want to romance my beautiful wife. Do I need any other reason?
BILL WALKS UP TO THEM, AND PATS MICKEY ON THE BACK.
BILL: I want to know when you're going to wine and dine your overworked brother!
MICKEY: That depends. When are you going to buy me candy and flowers?
BILL: When? Let me see what I can arrange... Daffodils would be your favorite, right?
MICKEY: I dunno... I'm partial to that Periwinkle patch...
BILL AND MICKEY LAUGH AS MAGGIE AND ALICE LOOK ON, BEFUDDLED.
MAGGIE: Alice, have you ever noticed that sometimes these two have a language all their own?
ALICE: Noticed? Dear, sometimes I think they're from Mars...
BILL: Hey, no name-calling...
MICKEY: Just because you don't like Opus...
MAGGIE: Oh no... they're doing it again.
ALICE: Mickey, leave now. Take your wife to lunch.
MICKEY: (PROPERLY CHASTENED) Yes, Mom.
ALICE: (TO MAGGIE) You have a lovely lunch.
MAGGIE: Thanks, Alice. I'll see you this afternoon.
MICKEY: (WINKING) I wouldn't be so sure about that.
MAGGIE BLUSHES, AS MICKEY TAKES HER HAND AND LEADS HER TOWARDS THE ELEVATOR. THEY GET IN, AND MICKEY STARTS TO KISS MAGGIE. HOLD ON THE CLOSING ELEVATOR DOORS.
CUT TO: EUTERPE. NICK WALKS IN, AND SEES THAT THE DINING ROOM IS PACKED. NICK LOOKS AROUND THE ROOM: CHECKING OUT THE DECOR; READING THE SPECIALS POSTED ON AN EASEL BY THE DOOR; AND WATCHING THE EFFICIENT SERVICE.
NICK: (SOTTO VOCE) This place does have some appeal...
AS NICK FINISHES HIS VISUAL INSPECTION, IAN WALKS OVER TO HIM.
IAN: If you're looking for Eve, Nick... you're out of luck. (BEAT) She called in sick today.
NICK: And is she?
IAN: I didn't talk to her, so I can't answer that. But I suspect that she just wanted some time to herself.
NICK: I'm worried about her, Ian... but she doesn't want to hear that. She doesn't want to hear anything I have to say these days. (SIGHS) But I didn't come here to see Eve... I came here to talk to your boss.
IAN: I haven't seen Doug today, but I'll go look for him if you would like.
AS IAN FINISHES HIS SENTENCE, DAVE ENTERS THE DINING AREA FROM THE KITCHEN, AND HEADS TOWARD NICK AND IAN.
DAVE: Nick, Doug asked me to have you come upstairs to the office.
NICK: (TO IAN) Looks like you can cancel the search party, Ian...
DAVE STARTS TO DIRECT NICK TO THE STAIRWAY.
NICK: I know where the office is, Dave.
OUT ON NICK AS HE WALKS TO THE STAIRS.
EUTERPE / PRIVATE DINING ROOM. JOHN AND BRADY ARRIVE AT THE PARTY AND ARE ADMIRING THE DECORATIONS.
BRADY: Looky the stars, Dada!
JOHN: Yeah, they look pretty real.
VIVIAN APPROACHES JOHN AND BRADY.
VIVIAN: Hello John! Hello there, Brady!
BRADY: Hi!
JOHN: This is really something, Vivian. I think you've just set a new standard as far as birthday parties go.
VIVIAN: I wanted to do something special for Nikki today.
JOHN: You've certainly accomplished that. (LOOKING AROUND) It's definitely out of this world!
VIVIAN: (GROANS) Why don't you spare us those nasty puns and take Brady over to the games where the rest of the children are.
BRADY: Wanna play games!
JOHN: Then, let's get to them! (BEAT) I'll catch you later, Vivian.
JOHN TAKES BRADY'S HAND AND BRINGS HIM OVER TO THE GAMES AREA. VIVIAN SMILES, AS SHE WATCHES NICHOLAS AND THE REST OF THE CHILDREN LAUGHING AND PLAYING. IVAN WALKS UP TO VIVIAN.
VIVIAN: Isn't it wonderful, Ivan? The children are having a glorious time.
IVAN: The children don't seem to be the only ones enjoying themselves, Madame.
VIVIAN: Yes, I admit it. I'm having a great time, too. This is the first time in a long time that we've all seemed so happy together.
VIVIAN AND IVAN SMILE AT EACH OTHER.
GO TO: BO, WHO IS SITTING DOWN AT ONE OF THE TABLES. JOHN WALKS UP AND SITS DOWN NEXT TO BO.
JOHN: Hey there, Bo. Isn't this something?
BO: It sure is. I'm resisting the urge to push everyone out of the way to play some of those games myself.
JOHN: You'll be in line after me.
BO: You wanna bet?
JOHN: (SMILES, THEN SERIOUS) How's everything going with Shawn-Douglas?
BO: Pretty good, actually. He's making progress with Dr. Ector.
JOHN: That's great. How about long term?
BO: We're going to have to wait and see. He's never going to forget what happened... that'll be forever ingrained into his memory. We just have to figure out a way that he can deal with it from now on. Dr. Ector thinks that he should have no problem leading a normal life.
JOHN: That should be a huge relief.
BO: It is.
JOHN: So, I take it that you're pretty pleased with Dr. Ector?
BO: More than anyone can imagine. Shawn-D and I have been going to joint sessions together, and he's even helping me deal with things. (BEAT) Hey, how 'bout you? Any progress?
JOHN: Yeah, a little. My memory seems to be returning a bit at a time.
BO: That's gotta be frustrating.
JOHN: It is... but at least it's returning.
HOLD ON JOHN.
CUT TO: EUTERPE. JULIE, RICHARD AND JACK ARRIVE. JULIE CATCHES THE ATTENTION OF DAVE, WHO HAS JUST SEATED CUSTOMERS AT WHAT APPEARS TO BE THE ONLY UNOCCUPIED TABLE IN THE ROOM. DAVE RETURNS TO THE ENTRANCE.
DAVE: Good afternoon, everyone.
JACK: (SURVEYING THE BUSY ROOM) Is our table ready, Dave?
DAVE: Of course. Doug insists that we always have a space available for his fair lady.
RICHARD: Smart man...
JACK: Yes...
DAVE PICKS UP THREE MENUS, AND LEADS THEM TO A TABLE IN THE CORNER NEAR THE DOOR TO THE SOUND ROOM. DAVE PULLS OUT JULIE'S CHAIR, AND WAITS UNTIL SHE IS SETTLED BEFORE PASSING OUT THE MENUS.
DAVE: Ken will be here in a moment to get your drink order.
DAVE LEAVES.
JACK: I wonder what the catch of the day is.
JULIE: (CRANING HER NECK TO SEE THE SPECIALS LISTED ON THE EASEL) Grilled tuna.
JACK: I think I can skip that. (BEAT) But everyone get what they want... my treat.
RICHARD PUTS DOWN HIS MENU, AND CHECKS HIS PULSE.
RICHARD No, I'm not dead... (BEAT) Is this a polite way of giving me my pink slip, Jack? (TEASING) Think I'll go quietly on a full stomach?
KEN WALKS OVER, AND STARTS TO FILL THE WATER GLASSES.
JACK: The thanks I get... No, I am not firing anyone... I wanted to thank you both for all your hard work at Midsummer. The circulation numbers are up, and the reviews have all been positive for creating a thoughtful and intelligent magazine for a long-ignored segment of society. (BEAT) Lunch is my way of saying "Keep up the good work."
JACK TAKES A SIP OUT OF HIS WATER GLASS AS JULIE AND RICHARD EXCHANGE PUZZLED GLANCES. THEN JULIE GETS AN IDEA.
JULIE: Oh, now I get it. (TO RICHARD) Jack can heap all this praise on us, and then write off lunch as a business expense.
JACK PUTS DOWN HIS GLASS, BUT SOME OF THE WATER SLOSHES OUT.
JACK: (FLUSTERED) Well, yes... I can take this as a business deduction. (BEAT) But that's not the point...
HOLD ON JULIE AND RICHARD LAUGHING AT A SLIGHTLY RED-FACED JACK.
CUT TO: DOUG'S OFFICE. DOUG IS SEATED BEHIND HIS DESK, GOING OVER SOME PAPERWORK WHEN NICK TAPS AT THE DOOR.
DOUG: Come in...
NICK: I was told you were expecting me...
DOUG: Yes. Thank you for coming by.
DOUG RISES, AND MOVES TO NICK, PROFFERING HIS HAND.
NICK: (SLOWLY SHAKING DOUG'S HAND) Well, I appreciate your willingness to... talk.
DOUG: Yes. Of course.
THERE IS A MOMENT OF UNEASY SILENCE.
DOUG: (CONT'D) Ah... please, sit down. (DOUG GESTURES TO HIS CONFERENCE TABLE, WHICH HAS BEEN SET FOR LUNCH). I took the liberty of ordering lunch for us. I hope you don't mind.
NICK: I've made it a rule never to say no to a free lunch. Although I've also made it a rule not to believe in a "free lunch."
DOUG: Interesting dichotomy. Would you care for a glass of Merlot? I believe it's a favorite of yours.
NICK: You sure do your homework, Williams. I might think you were trying to butter me up...
DOUG: Why would I need to do that, when the goal is to come up with a business proposal that benefits us both?
NICK: Why indeed?
DOUG: Besides, this is one vintage I haven't sampled yet, and I try to be sure and taste everything in my cellars. That way, I can make recommendations to my customers if they have questions.
NICK: That's a good idea. You seem to be pretty good at running this joint.
DOUG: It's something I've done all my life, and I want to be the best at it. It's important to me to provide an atmosphere of relaxation and good care to every diner who walks in the door. Here, at the original Doug's Place, and at the little club I ran in Italy.
NICK: You've been in this business all your life?
DOUG: Well, not exactly. I have a rather... colorful... past, but once I came to town and met Julie, well, let's just say she inspired me to settle down. Owning a club came naturally, given my other talents...
NICK: This sounds like a topic I'd be interested in exploring.
DOUG: Perhaps another time... I hear distinctive footsteps in the hall...
THERE IS A KNOCK AT THE DOOR.
DOUG: (CONT'D) Ahh, just in time, Dave, with our lunch.
DOUG STANDS AND OPENS THE DOOR, ADMITTING DAVE, WHO CARRIES A TRAY OF STEAMING DISHES.
DOUG: (CONT'D) I ordered our catch of the day for you, it's grilled tuna, with a tomato/basil salsa.
NICK: 'Certainly smells good.
DAVE HAS SET THE PLATES, AND LEAVES, AS BOTH MEN SAMPLE THEIR LUNCHES.
NICK: (CONT'D) Oh man, this is great. A lot of chefs would have gone too heavy on the basil...
DOUG: Lorenzo has a deft hand with spices. Would you care to try mine? It's chicken en crote, with a mandarin orange glaze.
DOUG CUTS A SLICE OF THE CHICKEN AND TRANSFERS IT TO NICK'S PLATE. NICK TASTES IT WITH A BEATIFIC SMILE.
NICK: That's excellent, too. And from what I could see downstairs, your other guests were enjoying their food as much as I am. Plus your staff was doing a good job keeping up with the orders. You run quite a place here, Doug.
OUT ON DOUG'S DELIGHT AT THE COMPLIMENT.
BILL'S OFFICE. BILL IS DOING PAPERWORK. THERE IS A KNOCK ON THE DOOR.
BILL: Come in...
MARCUS OPENS THE DOOR AND WALKS IN.
MARCUS: You wanted to see me?
BILL: Yes, Marcus, please, sit down.
BILL GESTURES TOWARD THE CHAIR. MARCUS SITS FACING BILL. BILL PUSHES HIS PAPERWORK ASIDE.
BILL: (CONT'D) Thank you for coming.
MARCUS: When the Chief of Staff beckons, I answer.
BILL: Oh... I'm hope I'm not that forbidding.
MARCUS: Which would you prefer, yes or no?
BILL: I think "no." If it were yes, I know you'd all just go over my head to my mother and protest my Draconian methods.
MARCUS: (SMILING) I'm sorry, Dr. Horton, but you're probably right. We all know Mrs. Horton and her donuts really run this place. (BEAT) It's great to have her back at work.
BILL: It is indeed. (BEAT) I think she needed to be here almost as much as we all needed her to return.
MARCUS: (NODS) How's she doing?
BILL: All right... But I don't think being without Dad is as easy as she lets on.
MARCUS: It has to be a tough adjustment.
BILL: Mom's a strong woman, but I wish there was more I could do for her.
MARCUS: If I can be of any help, let me know. (BEAT) We all miss Dr. Horton...
BILL: (CLEARLY MOVED) Yes, we all do... (BEAT) Now... on to hospital business. I wanted to talk to you about our head nurse.
MARCUS: Gail Brewer...
BILL: She is retiring soon.
MARCUS: I know. I was at her retirement party. (SMILES) I didn't drink so much that I don't remember that.
BILL: Oh? Then, that wasn't you I saw dancing on the table with the lampshade wrapped in gauze on your head?
MARCUS: (SCRATCHING HIS HEAD) Geez. I hope not.
BOTH MEN LAUGH.
BILL: Marcus, lampshades notwithstanding, Nurse Brewer is retiring and University Hospital needs a new head nurse.
HOLD ON BILL.
CUT TO: EUTERPE. MICKEY AND MAGGIE ARRIVE FOR LUNCH. DAVE GREETS THEM.
DAVE: Good afternoon, Maggie... Mickey.
MAGGIE: Hello, Dave.
MICKEY: Hi, Dave.
DAVE: Two for lunch?
MICKEY: Yes, I'm treating my lovely wife to lunch today.
DAVE: (GRABBING TWO MENUS) Very good. Right this way...
DAVE LEADS THEM TO A TABLE. THEY SIT, AND DAVE GIVES THEM THE MENUS.
DAVE: (CONT'D) Would you care for a drink before you order?
MAGGIE: I'd like an iced tea, please.
MICKEY: 'Sounds good. Make that two. Thanks, Dave.
DAVE NODS AND LEAVES.
MAGGIE: Oh, Mickey... I talked to Sarah and Melissa this morning.
MICKEY: Oh? Is everything okay?
MAGGIE: Yes, everything is fine. (BEAT) Sarah's not thrilled about going back to school, of course, but then again, what girl her age is?
MICKEY: True.
MAGGIE: And Melissa's still doing that musical stage production...
MICKEY: Good for her. (BEAT) You know, I'm proud of them for doing so well on their own, but... I sure miss having them here.
MAGGIE: I know. So do I.
MICKEY: I'm thinking that we should take a few days off sometime soon, and go down and visit them.
MAGGIE: I think that's a wonderful idea.
GO TO: JACK, JULIE, AND RICHARD AT THEIR TABLE.
JACK: (PICKING UP HIS GLASS OF ICE WATER) Well, we don't have champagne, but what the heck. (RAISING HIS GLASS) Here's to an outstanding staff, who came up with an outstanding series of stories, and put Midsummer on the proverbial map.
JULIE: (RAISING HER GLASS) Here, here!
RICHARD: (RAISING HIS GLASS) Salud!
JACK: So, Julie, now that you've begun building a reputation for the magazine, what's next?
JULIE: Well, I've been giving it quite a bit of thought. (BEAT) The series on widowhood and grieving was excellent, and I feel that it helped a lot of people. But I'd like to balance it out with something a little more... uplifting.
JACK: Oh? And what are you considering?
JULIE: Romance and marriage that starts after age 40.
RICHARD: (SMILING) Hmmm... 'Sounds like that idea was inspired by the recent celebration of an anniversary... And the anticipation of another wedding, perhaps?
JULIE: (SMILING) Perhaps...
JACK: 'Sounds like a good idea. (BEAT) Of course, sometimes marriage can be even less uplifting than widowhood. It can be downright tragic.
JULIE: Oh, Jack, stop it! If you keep talking like that, Richard's never going to take the plunge!
RICHARD: (EMBARRASSED) Well, I... uh...
JACK: So, Richard...
RICHARD: Please, let's not discuss my love life... or lack thereof.
JACK: I wasn't going to. Actually, I wanted to ask you if you have any new story suggestions for the magazine.
RICHARD: Oh... Well, let's see... I did get another call from Ashley the other day.
JACK: Ashley... (RAISING AN EYEBROW) The lovely photojournalist, right?
RICHARD: (SMILING) That's the one.
JULIE: (SIGHS, EXASPERATED) Why, oh why do I always seem to get caught in these high-testosterone discussions?
RICHARD: (TEASING) Why, Julie, I didn't know you were into fast, Italian sports cars...
JULIE: Cars?
RICHARD: Why the high performance testos-er-oni, of course!
JACK: (ROLLING HIS EYES) Oh my... I certainly hope the competition isn't taping this conversation.
HOLD ON JACK'S CHAGRIN AS JULIE AND RICHARD LAUGH.
CUT TO: EUTERPE / PRIVATE DINING ROOM. BO, SHAWN-DOUGLAS, JOHN, BRADY, IVAN, VIVIAN, NICHOLAS, AND A COUPLE OF NICHOLAS' FRIENDS ARE SEATED AT ONE LARGE TABLE. EVERYONE HAS BEEN SERVED EXCEPT VIVIAN. KEN, THE WAITER, PLACES A BASKET WITH A HOT DOG AND FRENCH FRIES IN FRONT OF VIVIAN. KEN LEAVES. VIVIAN STARES AT HER LUNCH.
VIVIAN: A hot dog... And, french fries... (FORCED ENTHUSIASM) They look delicious.
IVAN: Madame knows they are Master Nicholas' favorites.
NICHOLAS: Try 'em, Aunt Viv.
VIVIAN: I think I'll wait. I'm not quite as hungry as I thought. (BEAT) Maybe I'll order something off the menu.
NICHOLAS: Come on, the hot dogs are really good. Go ahead and try 'em.
IVAN: Madame, Euterpe's chefs are known for doing wonders with common foods.
NICHOLAS: C'mon, Aunt Viv. At least, try 'em.
VIVIAN: Very well. (VIVIAN PICKS UP A KNIFE AND FORK AND BEGINS TO CUT OFF A SMALL PIECE)
NICHOLAS: No. Like this.
NICHOLAS TAKES A BIG BITE OUT OF HIS HOT DOG. VIVIAN COPIES HIM AND BITES INTO HER HOT DOG.
VIVIAN: Mmmmmmm... (SURPRISED) This is quite good.
NICHOLAS: Try a french fry.
VIVIAN PICKS UP A FRENCH FRY AND NIBBLES ON IT.
VIVIAN: Pommes frites... very nice.
IVAN: (PASSING THE KETCHUP.) Dip it in this, Madame, for the full effect.
VIVIAN: If we were doing this right, we'd use mayonnaise, but as they say, "when in Rome..."
VIVIAN POURS SOME KETCHUP ON HER PLATE AND DIPS A FRENCH FRY IN IT. SHE TAKES A BIG BITE AND SMILES.
VIVIAN: (CONT'D) You know, I'm sorry I didn't try this sooner.
JOHN: (LAUGHING) Pretty soon we'll have you at a ball game eating peanuts and Cracker Jack.
VIVIAN: Don't hold your breath, John.
JOHN: (DRAMATIC SIGH) I guess that rules out the beer and brat party I was planning for your birthday.
BO AND SOME OF THE KIDS GET UP TO PLAY VIDEO GAMES. NICHOLAS IS LOOKING ANXIOUSLY AT THE KIDS PLAYING.
VIVIAN: Nikki, sit still.
NICHOLAS: Aunt Viv, may I be excused?
VIVIAN: You've hardly touched your lunch.
NICHOLAS LOOKS AT VIVIAN WITH PUPPY-DOG EYES.
VIVIAN: (CONT'D) Very well. Go play.
NICHOLAS: Thanks!!!
NICHOLAS JUMPS UP FROM THE TABLE TO JOIN HIS FRIENDS. JOHN AND VIVIAN WATCH NICHOLAS.
JOHN: You know, for being Carly and Lawrence's son, he's one great kid.
VIVIAN: Nikki is remarkable.
JOHN: You did a good job raising him.
VIVIAN: Thank you... coming from you, that means a lot...
JOHN AND VIVIAN SMILE.
JOHN: What's next for you?
VIVIAN: I was thinking of opening a spa and enjoying life for a while.
JOHN: A spa?
IVAN: Madame, I am surprised to hear you planning something so... capricious.
VIVIAN: Oh Ivan, I want to live life for a while... Life is a banquet and most poor suckers are starving to death...
JOHN: I think a life of leisure sounds like a perfect plan.
VIVIAN: I think we could all use some balance in our lives. (EYING NICHOLAS' PLATE) Meanwhile, do you think Nikki is going to finish that hot dog?
OUT ON VIVIAN REACHING TO GET NICHOLAS' HOT DOG.
DOUG'S OFFICE. NICK AND DOUG ARE FINISHING LUNCH.
NICK: (WIPING HIS MOUTH WITH HIS NAPKIN AND TOSSING IT ON THE TABLE) Ah, Doug, that was good.
DOUG: I'm glad you enjoyed it. It's important to me that everything about this place is as good as I can make it.
NICK: You really love this club, don't you?
DOUG: Yes...
NICK: I loved it, too. I fell hard for this place when I first saw it... that's why I bought it from Dr. Curtis.
DOUG: Ironic. Neil bought the club from me to showcase his then-wife, Liz Chandler.
NICK: Ironic, indeed. Part of the reason I wanted it was to showcase... (HIS VOICE TRAILS OFF) It doesn't matter now.
DOUG: Eve?
NICK LOOKS AT DOUG, SLIGHTLY SURPRISED.
DOUG: (CONT'D) She's a beautiful singer, Nick. I can see why the place means so much to you.
NICK: Meant so much, Doug. It's all gone now. The club, Eve...
DOUG: Don't be so sure about Eve... I don't think it's necessarily over... She's angry, but that will pass.
NICK: Well, she acts like it's over.
DOUG: But I've seen that show before, by an equally talented performer. Eve reminds me a lot of Julie when we first met. Hard-headed and quick to take offense... But they both love forever when they fall, you know.
NICK: Maybe. (BEAT) Julie's quite a woman, Doug. You're lucky. She was one hell of an adversary, but I always admired her. That's why I made her executrix of my will...
DOUG: Which brings us back to the crux of our dilemma, Nick. What do we do about this club?
HOLD ON DOUG'S QUESTION.
CUT TO: BILL'S OFFICE. BILL AND MARCUS. IN PROGRESS.
BILL: I've been consulting all the department heads about this, so now it's time for my Chief of Plastic Surgery to toss in his two cents. (BEAT) Who do you think should become the new head nurse?
MARCUS: Do you have a list of candidates, or are you asking me for a name?
BILL: I'm asking you to tell me who would be the best person for the job. This person has to be a registered nurse, of course. (BEAT) We need someone who is strong, smart, caring... someone that the staff and the patients can count on.
MARCUS: A modern day Florence Nightingale?
BILL: Exactly.
MARCUS: Then I can only think of one person...
HOLD ON MARCUS' SMILE.
CUT TO: EUTERPE / PRIVATE DINING ROOM. BO IS SITTING IN THE BASEBALL VIRTUAL REALITY CHAIR, WHILE JOHN WATCHES. BO TAKES OFF THE HELMET AND SHAKES HIS HEAD.
BO: That is amazing! Man, where do I get one of these things?
JOHN: Didn't I tell you? It's like being right there!
BO HOLDS OUT THE HELMET TO JOHN.
BO: Want to have another go?
JOHN: (LAUGHING) I'd love it, but I think we should let the kids have a chance, don't you?
BO: (GRINNING) Oh yeah. The kids. (BEAT) Speaking of kids, yours is having a great time.
BO NODS ACROSS THE ROOM. JOHN TURNS TO SEE VIVIAN AND BRADY PLAYING "ASTRONAUT." BRADY IS WEARING A TOY HELMET AND SQUEALING WITH EXCITEMENT AS VIVIAN FLIES HIM AROUND THE ROOM.
BO: (CONT'D) What a happy, healthy kid Brady is. He reminds me of Shawn-D at that age, rambunctious and fun-loving. (BEAT) It's obvious that he gets lots of love and attention.
JOHN: What can I say? I adore that boy of mine. I just wish that Isabella... (JOHN LOWERS HIS HEAD)
BO: It's okay, I understand.
JOHN: I still miss her. And I wish Brady could know her as more than a picture on his dresser.
BO: I feel the same way. I didn't even know I had a sister, and then when I found out... We didn't get much time together.
JOHN: No, but it was quality time.
BO: Yes, it was. And I know that Isabella is watching over you and Brady and protecting you.
JOHN: I feel that, too. When Brady's older and can understand better we'll have to let him know how special she was.
BO: Count on it.
HOLD ON THE TENDER MOMENT BETWEEN THE TWO.
EUTERPE. RICHARD, JACK, AND JULIE. IN PROGRESS.
RICHARD: So, it sounds like Ashley is onto something big. She said it's bigger than she expected, which is saying a lot.
JACK: It doesn't sound to me like she's said much at all. Has she given you any more details?
RICHARD: No. She doesn't want to talk about it over the phone.
JULIE: So, all you know is that she has a big story...
RICHARD: With the photographs to back it up.
JACK: And when can we expect to see these photographs?
RICHARD: I'm not sure. The photographs were stolen.
JACK: (SKEPTICAL) I see. (BEAT) Richard, you're not pulling my proverbial leg with this story, are you?
RICHARD: Pulling your...? No! Why would I do that?
JACK: I don't know. Everything you've told us has been far too vague. If you're sure that this is such a hot story, then where are the details? Where's your proof that it's newsworthy? That it's front page material?
JULIE: (SUSPICIOUSLY) Wait a minute! I thought we were talking about story ideas for Midsummer.
JACK: We were... But this may be a big enough story to run on the front page of the Spectator. (NOTICING JULIE'S UNFAVORABLE EXPRESSION) Um... with an in-depth follow-up in Midsummer, of course. (BEAT) If the story is all it's cracked up to be.
RICHARD: Look, I'm not above playing a prank now and then, but not in a situation like this. (BEAT) And I trust Ashley's word. She has excellent instincts. If she says there's a big story, then there's a very high probability that it's there. And she'll find it.
JULIE: Come on, Jack... Richard wouldn't joke about business.
JACK: All right... I wanted to make sure. (INTRIGUED) I'm anxious to see these photographs... And to meet the photographer.
JULIE LOOKS SUSPICIOUSLY AT JACK, WHO DOESN'T NOTICE.
RICHARD: She did say that she's going to try to come to Salem soon. (BEAT) After she recovers her photos, of course.
JACK: Of course. (BEAT) She takes care of business. I like that.
JULIE: You'll keep us up to date, won't you, Richard?
RICHARD: Absolutely. When Ashley does finally get here, the four of us can meet and go over what she's found.
JACK: (GROWING MORE AND MORE INTRIGUED) I look forward to it.
RICHARD: Be warned... She drives a hard bargain. If you want her story, it's going to cost you.
JACK: A tough bargainer, too, eh? I'm liking this more and more...
JACK IS INTERRUPTED BY THE RINGING OF HIS CELLULAR PHONE. HE TAKES IT OUT OF HIS POCKET AND ANSWERS IT, ONE-WAY.
JACK: (CONT'D) Jack Deveraux. (BEAT) Vern? What...? (BEAT) Vern, you're breaking up... my battery must be low. I'll call you right back.
JACK CLOSES THE PHONE AND PUTS IT IN HIS POCKET. HE STANDS UP.
JACK: (CONT'D) Excuse me, I need to go use the phone. I'll be right back, and we can continue discussing your friend Ashley...
JACK GOES OVER TO THE PAYPHONES. RICHARD NOTICES JULIE'S UNEASINESS.
RICHARD: Julie, is something wrong? You look troubled...
JULIE: I'm worried about Jack. Did you notice the glint in his eye when you started talking about Ashley's story?
RICHARD: Um... not really. He just seemed interested.
JULIE: Well, I know Jack very well, and that look means more than just keen interest.
RICHARD: Oh? What else does it mean?
JULIE: It means that Jack's about to get himself into trouble.
HOLD ON JULIE'S CONCERN.
CUT TO: EUTERPE / PRIVATE DINING ROOM. NICHOLAS IS IN THE MIDST OF OPENING HIS GIFTS, A HUGE PILE OF TORN WRAPPING PAPER SURROUNDS HIM. VIVIAN, IVAN, BO AND JOHN STAND OFF TO THE SIDE WATCHING ALL THE KIDS SQUIRM WITH EXCITEMENT. NICHOLAS ENTHUSIASTICALLY RIPS OFF THE WRAPPING PAPER ON A BOX AND OPENS IT TO REVEAL A NEW BASEBALL GLOVE AND BALL, AS WELL AS THE ENTIRE SET OF TOPPS TRADING CARDS.
NICHOLAS: Wow! Thanks Uncle John! Thanks Brady!
JOHN: You're very welcome, Nikki. Use them in good health.
BRADY: Baseball!
EVERYONE LAUGHS AS NICHOLAS PUTS THE BOX ON THE TABLE. SHAWN-DOUGLAS STARTS BOUNCING UP AND DOWN.
SHAWN-D: Open mine next! It's that one, the one with the red bow!
NICHOLAS RIPS OPEN THAT PACKAGE.
NICHOLAS: Cool! Turbo Tiger!
SHAWN-D: Since you liked mine so much I figured I'd get you your own.
NICHOLAS: You'd better be careful! Now that I can practice I'm going to beat you all the time!
SHAWN-DOUGLAS LAUGHINGLY MAKES A GRAB FOR THE GAME AND NICHOLAS HOLDS IT ABOVE HIS HEAD. THE TWO MOCK SCUFFLE AND THEN SIT DOWN. NICHOLAS LOOKS AT THE TWO REMAINING PACKAGES.
NICHOLAS: (CONT'D) Which one next?
IVAN: Open mine next, Master Nicholas. The square one.
NICHOLAS OPENS THE PACKAGE AND HOLDS UP THE BOOK THAT IS INSIDE. IT IS ENTITLED "HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR CHESS GAME."
NICHOLAS: Ooh good, now I can beat you and Shawn-D, Ivan.
IVAN: That will certainly be a red letter day, Master Nicholas.
NICHOLAS TAKES THE LAST SMALL PACKAGE FROM THE TABLE. HE TURNS IT OVER AND OVER AND SHAKES IT A LITTLE.
NICHOLAS: I know who this is from. I recognize the wrapping paper.
VIVIAN: I do hope you like it, Nicholas. It's an Alamain family heirloom and very special.
NICHOLAS CAREFULLY OPENS THE PACKAGE. HIS MOUTH FORMS AN "O" AND HE GENTLY HOLDS UP A MINIATURE SAMURAI DOLL.
VIVIAN: (CONT'D) You're great-great-great-grandfather brought that back from Japan many, many years ago. It's one of the last of the set.
JOHN: I have one too, Nikki. Aunt Viv gave it to me when I was a boy.
VIVIAN: Your father... Lawrence has one, too. As will Brady when he gets old enough.
NICHOLAS GENTLY LAYS THE SAMURAI DOLL DOWN AND RUNS TO VIVIAN. HE THROWS HIS ARMS AROUND HER AND SQUEEZES HER TIGHTLY.
NICHOLAS: This is the best day of my whole life! And it's all because of you, Aunt Viv. I love you.
VIVIAN: I love you too, darling Nikki.
NICHOLAS: You're the best parent any kid could hope for!
HOLD ON VIVIAN'S TEARS OF HAPPINESS.
CUT TO: DOUG'S OFFICE. DOUG IS SITTING BEHIND HIS DESK, WHILE NICK SITS ACROSS FROM HIM. NICK IS TOYING WITH HIS LIGHTER.
DOUG: Mickey has told me that it would be best for everyone involved if you and I can agree on a compromise. (BEAT) I think we both would like to avoid having to go to court over this.
NICK: Yeah... I've had enough of lawyers and courtrooms to last me ten lifetimes. (PUTTING THE LIGHTER BACK IN HIS POCKET) So, what exactly are you proposing?
DOUG: As you've noticed, I've put a lot into Euterpe over the last year, both monetarily and emotionally. (BEAT) I'm not willing to just hand it over to someone else.
NICK: I can understand that, but... if you keep this place, what's in it for me?
OUT ON NICK'S QUESTION.
EUTERPE. DOUG'S OFFICE. NICK AND DOUG. IN PROGRESS.
DOUG: What's in it for you? (BEAT) Let me tell you...
NICK: I'm listening...
DOUG: I still own Doug's Place and the land beneath it.
NICK: Doug's Place?
DOUG: Yeah, my very first club in Salem.
NICK: I thought this was your place.
DOUG: It was... it is... But Doug's Place was the first. My late wife Addie bought it for me...
NICK: Your wife? (BEAT) You know some amazing women, Williams, I gotta hand it to you.
DOUG: Yes, I do... (SAD SMILE) But back to the club.
NICK: Doug's Place?
DOUG: Right. It hasn't been open for years...
NICK: Not into competing with yourself?
DOUG: Something like that... (SELLING, REMEMBER HE WAS A CON MAN) You'd love Doug's Place. It's in a great location. It's near town. It's easy to get to. There's lots of redevelopment going on nearby.
NICK: Then, why has it been sitting vacant all this time?
DOUG: As you already pointed out... I would be competing with myself. And, I like to focus my energy into one project at a time.
NICK: (GETTING INTERESTED) So, what's it look like?
DOUG: Nick, you'll love this place. It still has its original Art Deco fixtures...
NICK: Deco? I would like it...
DOUG: I knew you would.
NICK: Okay, so I'd like the look of your old club, but what good does that do us?
DOUG: It's the compromise. My proposal...
NICK: You mean your club?
DOUG: Exactly! I'll sign over the ownership of the original Doug's Place to you. I keep the land. You can lease it for a nominal fee, for as long as you want to keep the club. You drop all rights to this place.
NICK: A club for a club?
DOUG: (SMILING) An Old Testament solution, wouldn't you say?
NICK: I'd say... (SLOW SMILE) I think I like you, Mr. Williams. And I think perhaps one of these days I'm going to buy you a drink so I can hear all about your past.
DOUG: Deal... And the club?
NICK: I'll take a look at the place and think it over.
DOUG: That's all I ask.
HOLD ON NICK'S REFLECTION ON THE OFFER.
CUT TO: EUTERPE / PRIVATE DINING ROOM. WE HEAR "ONLY ONE" BY JAMES TAYLOR BEGAN TO PLAY AS WE GO INTO A MONTAGE. THE GUESTS ARE SINGING "HAPPY BIRTHDAY" TO NICHOLAS AS HE BLOWS OUT THE CANDLES ON A HUGE CAKE SHAPED LIKE A SPACESHIP. JOHN AND BO EXCHANGE LOOKS OF AMUSEMENT AS SHAWN-D VOLUNTEERS TO HELP CUT THE CAKE. VIVIAN GLEAMS WITH PRIDE WATCHING NICHOLAS. IVAN WATCHES VIVIAN AND SMILES.
CUT TO: EUTERPE'S MAIN DINING ROOM. MICKEY AND MAGGIE ARE IN THE MIDDLE OF LUNCH. MICKEY LEANS OVER AND WHISPERS IN MAGGIE'S EAR. SHE PUTS DOWN HER FORK AND MOUTHS THE WORD "NOW?" MICKEY NODS. THEY EXCHANGE A LOOK. MAGGIE THROWS DOWN HER NAPKIN AND REACHES FOR HER PURSE AS MICKEY THROWS SOME CASH ON THE TABLE. THEY LEAVE HURRIEDLY.
GO TO: JACK, RICHARD AND JULIE, ENJOYING THEIR LUNCH. DOUG WALKS UP AND PUTS HIS ARMS AROUND JULIE. SHE GIVES HIM A QUESTIONING LOOK. DOUG, SMILING, HOLDS UP BOTH HANDS, FINGERS CROSSED. JULIE HOLDS UP HER HANDS LIKEWISE. JACK AND RICHARD SMILE IN ENCOURAGEMENT.
CUT TO: DOUG'S PLACE / EXTERIOR. NICK IS WALKING AROUND THE EXTERIOR, LOOKING AT THE BUILDING AND GROUNDS, NODDING. HE WALKS UP TO A WINDOW AND RUBS AWAY SOME OF THE GRIME TO PEER INSIDE. HE NODS AGAIN. HOLD ON NICK, GRINNING AS HE LIGHTS A CIGARETTE. FADE TO BLACK. AND OUT.