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An ALT.DAYS Production,
A Division of Peel Productions, Inc.
Air Date: October 18, 1994
Time: Several Days After #73,
Afternoon to Evening
Copyright 1994
JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JACK AND JENNIFER ARE SITTING ON THE COUCH. JENNIFER HAS A CLIPBOARD AND IS CHECKING OFF ITEMS. JACK SEEMS MORE THAN A LITTLE BEMUSED.
JACK: Balloons.
JENNIFER: Check.
JACK: Banners.
JENNIFER: Check.
JACK: Cake.
JENNIFER: Check.
JACK: Soft drinks.
JENNIFER: Check.
JACK: Punch.
JENNIFER: Check.
JACK: Chips, dips, salsa...
JENNIFER: Check.
JACK: Ice cream.
JENNIFER: Check.
JACK: Party games.
JENNIFER: Check.
JACK: Speeches.
JENNIFER: Che... Speeches?
JACK: Why not? You have this party so organized, I thought maybe you'd written the guests' speeches.
JENNIFER: (PUTS DOWN THE CLIPBOARD) Was that a shot?
JACK: (INNOCENT SMILE) From me?
JENNIFER: (EYING JACK) I just want to make sure that we don't forget anything.
JACK: Jennifer, I don't think Eisenhower was this organized on D-day...
JENNIFER: I want to make sure everyone has a good time.
JACK: And they will. But a party should have a certain amount of... flexibility.
JENNIFER: Flexibility? This from a man who coordinates his socks and underwear by day of the week...
JACK: Hey, that way I always know what day it is... Monday is blue, Tuesday is green...
JENNIFER: (EVIL GRIN) I'm personally fond of Sunday...
JACK: But that's laundry day... (REALIZATION) Jennifer, I am shocked!
JENNIFER: (KISSING HIM ON THE CHEEK) My husband the prude...
JACK: Wait a minute... just because I don't go parading around...
JENNIFER: Jack, the party...
JACK: Oh right... You were trying to distract me. (TAPPING THE CLIPBOARD) We need a little free time...
JENNIFER: Jack, don't worry. (CHECKING HER CLIPBOARD) I've allowed an entire half hour for mingling and free form conversation.
JACK: What is this? The party to end all parties?
JENNIFER: Absolutely. This must be the best birthday party any child ever had.
HOLD ON JENNIFER'S DETERMINATION.
CUT TO: CARRIE'S APARTMENT. CARRIE AND JONAH ARE SITTING ON THE COUCH, EACH READING A TEXTBOOK.
CARRIE: (RUBBING HER EYES) For this I missed my summer?
JONAH: Remember, Brady... by suffering now, you'll be able to graduate sooner. (BEAT) And then you can sit around laughing at me, since I'll be in medical school until the end of time.
CARRIE: But I'm not in a hurry to graduate, Jonah.
JONAH: (SHOCKED) What do you mean, you're not in a hurry to graduate? (BEAT) Don't tell me you want to stay in school forever.
CARRIE: If I can't decide on a major soon, I may have no other choice but to stay in school forever.
HOLD ON CARRIE'S MELANCHOLY.
CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JACK AND JENNIFER. IN PROGRESS.
JACK: 'Careful, Mrs. Deveraux...
JENNIFER: 'Careful? About what?
JACK: Setting such lofty expectations. "The best party ever" is a pretty tall order. I'm sure that the child will be happy with whatever you have planned.
JENNIFER: Maybe so, but I owe her more than that. I have a lot to make up for.
JACK: You mean last year?
JENNIFER: That's exactly what I mean. I spent Abby's birthday unconscious on a hospital bed.
JACK: I know. I was there.
JENNIFER PUTS HER HAND ON JACK'S.
JACK: (CONT'D) You know, I may as well have been unconscious at the time, too. I was practically fused to the side of that hospital bed.
JENNIFER: You were wonderful. I can't imagine a husband being more supportive. You were there every minute.
JACK: Did you really know I was there?
JENNIFER: I... I think I did. (BEAT) And when I woke up, there you were. My knight in shining armor, there to save me.
JACK: (EMBARRASSED) Hardly. I was just holding on tight, and hoping... because I knew that I'd be lost without you. (BEAT) I'm just lucky that you decided to come back to me.
JENNIFER: I'll always come back to you, Jack Deveraux. Just make sure that you're there, waiting.
JACK: You can count on it. (BEAT) But I have a better idea.
JENNIFER: Oh?
JACK: Yes. How about if you don't go anywhere? (PUTTING HIS ARMS AROUND HER) You stay right here, close to me, and then you won't have to worry about coming back.
JENNIFER: (SNUGGLING CLOSE TO JACK) I think that's a great idea, Mr. D.
JENNIFER RESTS HER HEAD ON JACK'S CHEST. HE KISSES HER FOREHEAD AND SMILES. OUT ON THE TWO.
JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JACK AND JENNIFER ARE SITTING ON THE COUCH AND CONTINUE TO SHARE THEIR TENDER MOMENT.
JACK: You know I'll always be waiting for you, Mrs. D. Just don't go anywhere too far, okay?
JENNIFER: It's a deal, Mr. D.
THEY MOVE TO EMBRACE EACH OTHER, WHEN JO, MAGGIE, AND ALICE ENTER, KNOCKING AS THEY OPEN THE DOOR.
JO: Hello! The party helpers are here!
JENNIFER SPRINGS UP, NEARLY KNOCKING JACK OFF THE COUCH, AND GRABS THE CLIPBOARD FROM THE COFFEE TABLE.
JENNIFER: Great! Thanks for coming early to help.
ALICE: It's our pleasure to help with Abby's birthday.
MAGGIE: Where do we start?
JENNIFER: (READING FROM HER CLIPBOARD) Maggie, why don't you work on the decorations? Jo, you can help by setting up some of the games. And Grandma, I can use your magic touch in the kitchen.
MAGGIE, JO, AND ALICE ALL MOVE TO BEGIN HELPING WITH DECORATIONS AND FOOD. JACK SITS ON THE COUCH, WATCHING WITH AMAZEMENT. THERE IS A KNOCK ON THE DOOR. JACK JUMPS UP FROM THE COUCH AND MOVES TOWARDS THE DOOR.
JACK: I'll get it!
JACK OPENS THE DOOR TO JULIE.
JACK: (CONT'D) Julie! Do come inside.
JULIE: Thank you, Jack.
JULIE WALKS INSIDE AND LOOKS AROUND AT ALL THE ACTIVITY.
JULIE: (CONT'D) It looks like you've got lots of help here.
JACK: Yes. Jennifer definitely knows how to crack the virtual whip. (BEAT) Speaking of, who's minding the shop while you're gone?
JULIE: Richard seems to have things well in hand. He and Vern will be arriving later.
JACK: (MUTTERING) Vern better not be here until the evening edition is finished.
JULIE: Oh Jack! Stop being such a Scrooge. I'm sure Vern will take care of everything.
JACK: You're right. (BEAT) It's my daughter's birthday. I should not be worrying about work.
JULIE: That's the attitude, Jack. (BEAT) Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to see if I can help Maggie with the decorations.
JULIE WALKS OVER TO MAGGIE AND BEGINS SORTING THE RIBBONS AND STREAMERS. JACK WATCHES A MOMENT, UNTIL JENNIFER RUNS UP TO JACK AND GRABS HIS ARM.
JENNIFER: Jack! What are you doing standing around? I need you to help move the furniture.
HOLD ON JENNIFER, PULLING JACK TOWARDS THE COUCH.
CUT TO: DOUG'S PLACE. NICK WALKS UP TO THE FRONT DOOR. BRIAN, THE REAL ESTATE AGENT, AWAITS HIM.
BRIAN: Mr. Corelli?
NICK: That's me.
THE TWO MEN SHAKE HANDS.
BRIAN: I'm Brian Duncan. Mr. Williams asked me to show you around.
NICK: So I heard...
BRIAN UNLOCKS THE DOOR AND THEY ENTER THE CLUB. THE ROOM IS BARE, BUT WE SEE THE OLD ELEGANCE OF DOUG'S PLACE. NICK WALKS AROUND SLOWLY, STUDYING THE ROOM. HE TRACES HIS FINGERS ALONG A BALUSTRADE.
BRIAN: Beautiful fixtures, huh? Authentic from the late '20s and early '30s.
NICK APPEARS NOT TO HAVE HEARD BRIAN.
NICK: Les Arts Decoratifs...
NICK MOVES AROUND THE ROOM. BRIAN CONTINUES HIS "SALES PITCH."
BRIAN: The place has great potential. I could never believe Mr. Williams didn't sell it...
NICK: (SLIGHTLY DISTANT) Perhaps he had a sentimental attachment to it. I know the feeling...
BRIAN: Did Mr. Williams tell you about the renovation going on around here? It's a prime property.
NICK WALKS TO THE BAR WITH BRIAN FOLLOWING CLOSE BEHIND.
BRIAN: (CONT'D) It has a long history of being successful. Before it was Doug's Place, it was Sergio's...
NICK TURNS AROUND AND STARES AT BRIAN.
NICK: Brian... right?
BRIAN: Yes, that's right... Brian.
NICK: Brian, how about you leave me alone?
BRIAN: I dunno, Mr. Williams said...
NICK: And I say, I'd like to be alone.
BRIAN NOTICEABLY FLINCHES AT NICK'S TONE.
NICK: (CONT'D) Why don't you leave me the keys and I'll be sure to lock up on my way out.
BRIAN: But Mr. Williams didn't say anything about leaving you here alone.
NICK: But he didn't say you couldn't, did he?
BRIAN: Well...
NICK: Just give me the keys. If there's a problem, I'll handle it... (BEAT) I'm sure you've heard I can deal with... anything...
BRIAN: Oh... yes... Mr. Corelli... everyone knows about... well, I mean...
NICK STARES AT HIM. BRIAN IS DISCONCERTED, BUT NICK LOOKS LIKE HE'S TRYING NOT TO SMILE AT THE MAN'S DISCOMPOSURE.
NICK: Why don't you give me the keys and go?
BRIAN: Good idea. (HOLDS UP A KEY) This one is for the dead bolt. (HOLDS UP ANOTHER KEY) And, this one...
NICK: (GRABBING THE KEYS AND CUTTING OFF BRIAN) I think I can figure it out. Thanks.
BRIAN: Okay, well, then... bye...
BRIAN WARILY LEAVES, NEARLY BACKING OUT THE DOOR AS HE TRIES TO KEEP AN EYE ON NICK. NICK WALKS AROUND THE ROOM. IT IS CLEAR NICK LIKES WHAT HE SEES.
NICK: You know, Corelli... this joint could be something... something special...
WE HEAR "CHATTANOOGA CHOO CHOO" BEGIN TO PLAY AS WE FADE TO: NICK'S CAFE AMERICAINE. THE SCENE IS IN BLACK AND WHITE. NICK HAS NOT MOVED. BUT, HE IS NOW WEARING A WHITE DINNER JACKET, WHITE SHIRT AND BLACK BOW TIE. WE SEE THE PLACE IS PACKED. WAITERS ARE BUZZING AROUND TAKING ORDERS AND DELIVERING FOOD. A GIRL IS CARRYING A TRAY HELD BY A STRAP AROUND HER NECK AS SHE SELLS CIGARETTES AND GUM. MEN ARE WEARING SUITS AND FEDORAS. WOMEN HAVE POMPADOURS AND WEARING DRESSES WITH PADDED SHOULDERS. HOLD ON A BUSY "NICK'S CAFE."
CUT TO: JACK & JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JENNIFER IS STANDING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROOM, CONSULTING HER CHECKLIST. MAGGIE IS STANDING ON A CHAIR HANGING CREPE PAPER AND JO IS BUSY SETTING UP THE PIN-THE-TAIL-ON-THE-DONKEY GAME.
MAGGIE: Jennifer, is this straight?
JENNIFER: Um... A little higher on the left.
JO: Did you have a place in mind for this?
JENNIFER: Well, no I...
JO: (INTERRUPTING) Because I thought that if we put it on the closet door then we wouldn't have to put holes in the wall.
JENNIFER: Oh, okay, I hadn't even thought of that.
ROSIE COMES IN THE DOOR AND TAKES OFF HER COAT. SHE STARTS TO OFFER SOME ADVICE, BUT THINKS BETTER OF IT, KNOWING THAT JENNIFER IS RUNNING THE SHOW. ALICE COMES OUT AND STANDS IN THE DOORWAY OF THE KITCHEN. SIMULTANEOUSLY JULIE AND JACK COME DOWN THE STAIRS CARRYING PRESENTS.
ALICE: Jennifer Rose? I'm going to start on the food, but I can't find the baking sheets...
JACK: Jennifer, where do you want these?
MAGGIE JUMPS OFF THE CHAIR AND CLAPS HER HANDS.
MAGGIE: Bring on the balloons!
JENNIFER, LOOKING OVERWHELMED, LOOKS FROM ONE GROUP TO THE OTHER AND DOWN AT HER CHECKLIST. ROSIE STEPS FORWARD AND PUTS HER ARM AROUND JENNIFER'S SHOULDERS AND LOOKS AT THE CHECKLIST. JENNIFER THROWS HER A LOOK OF RELIEF.
ROSIE: (DIRECTING) Alice, the baking sheets are in the pantry on the bottom shelf. But don't use the black one, it doesn't fit in the oven. (BEAT) Jack, Julie, why don't you put the presents on the sideboard? (BEAT) Jo, Maggie, balloons are in bag on the kitchen table, but they need to be inflated.
JENNIFER'S LOOK OF RELIEF CHANGES TO ONE OF AWE AS SHE WATCHES ROSIE IN ACTION.
ROSIE: (CONT'D) Jennifer, why don't you check the powder rooms? And make sure that vacuum cleaner isn't blocking the upstairs hallway. Is Abby's dress ironed? I'll go and help Alice with the food. And Jack...
JACK HASTILY HEADS ACROSS THE ROOM, WAVING HIS ARMS AT ROSIE.
JACK: (INTERRUPTING) Somebody has to pick up the birthday cake and I volunteer!
JACK ESCAPES OUT THE DOOR, WHILE EVERYONE ELSE SPRINGS INTO ACTION. HOLD ON THE ACTIVITY.
CARRIE'S APARTMENT. CARRIE AND JONAH. IN PROGRESS.
JONAH: So have you given any more thought to your major?
CARRIE: Yeah. I've given it a lot of thought.
JONAH: And...?
CARRIE: I'm still not sure. But I was thinking...
CARRIE STOPS HERSELF.
JONAH: You were thinking, what?
CARRIE: Forget it...
JONAH: No way, Brady! You're not getting off that easily.
CARRIE: You'll say it's stupid.
JONAH: No, I won't.
CARRIE: You'll laugh.
JONAH: I won't laugh.
CARRIE: Promise?
JONAH: What's the big deal? Are you dropping out of Salem U. to go to clown college, or something?
CARRIE: No.
JONAH: Then, let's hear it.
CARRIE: (UNSURE) I don't know...
JONAH: Come on, out with it. (BEAT) Or maybe I should start guessing. Let's see... You're going to major in Poly Sci? You've got the non-commitment part down pretty well.
CARRIE: (UNAMUSED) Jonah...
JONAH: Sorry. You politicians call that "diplomacy," right?
CARRIE: (FED UP) All right, I'll tell you! Just shut up for a minute!
JONAH: (SMILING WITH SATISFACTION) I'm all ears.
CARRIE: You can be a real pain in the butt sometimes.
JONAH: I do my best.
CARRIE: All right. (BEAT) I'm thinking about joining the Drama Club. It would give me a chance to see if I'd like to major in theater arts.
JONAH: (CHUCKLING) Drama Club? Theater arts? You've got to be kidding me...
CARRIE: (HURT) No, I'm not kidding.
CARRIE STANDS UP AND GOES OVER TO THE WINDOW. JONAH FOLLOWS.
JONAH: Hey, Carrie... I'm sorry. I didn't mean it...
JONAH REACHES OUT TO TOUCH CARRIE'S SHOULDER. WHEN HE DOES, SHE QUICKLY TURNS TO FACE HIM.
CARRIE: (ANGRILY) What's your problem today, anyway?
BEFORE JONAH CAN ANSWER, CARRIE STRIDES BACK OVER TO THE COUCH AND PLOPS DOWN. JONAH FOLLOWS AND RECLAIMS HIS SEAT.
JONAH: I'm sorry, Carrie. It's not your fault. I shouldn't be venting on you.
CARRIE: If something's bothering you, you're more than welcome to talk to me about it.
JONAH: I know.
CARRIE: I'm not going to be your punching bag.
JONAH: I know. (BEAT) Listen... if you want to major in drama, become an actress... I think that's great. If it's what you really want to do, then I'm behind you 100 percent.
CARRIE: Thanks. I'm just going to try it out for now, but I'm glad I have your support.
JONAH: Always.
CARRIE: Speaking of support, do you want to tell me what's bothering you?
JONAH: (SIGHS) It's Abe and Lexie. They won't say anything in front of me, but I think their detective agency is in trouble. (BEAT) I'm worried about them.
CARRIE: I think you're right. They've really cut my hours back, and there isn't a lot for me to do when I am there.
JONAH: I wonder how long they'll be able to keep the business running?
HOLD ON JONAH'S CONCERN.
CUT TO: EUTERPE. EVE IS BESIDE THE BAR, GOING OVER HER LIST OF THINGS LEFT TO DO BEFORE THE DINNER RUSH ARRIVES. THERE'S A LOUD CRASH AS A TRAY OF GLASSWARE HITS THE FLOOR.
EVE: (FUMING) Oh, this is just wonderful. (YELLING) Lisa! Bring that broom back in here right now!
EVE PICKS UP HER PEN AND ADDS SOMETHING TO HER LIST.
EVE: (SOTTO VOCE) Order more glasses. (SIGHING) This always happens when Doug isn't around, so he never believes me when I say that this place is crawling with incompetents. (BEAT) Yet when he does bother to grace us with his presence, everybody sucks up to him like he's Elvis.
EVE WALKS OVER TO THE MAIN ENTRANCE, WHERE KEN IS WRITING THE SPECIALS ON THE BOARD.
EVE: (CONT'D) (HORRIFIED) Grilled swordfish again? (BEAT) Erase that now!
EVE STORMS OVER TO THE KITCHEN DOOR, NEARLY KNOCKING JASMIN OVER IN THE PROCESS. EVE PUSHES THE DOOR OPEN.
EVE: Aki! Grilled swordfish has been the special too many times this month. (BEAT) You need to come up with something else.
THE SOUND OF A SHARP KNIFE BEING DRAWN FROM A KNIFE BLOCK FILLS THE ROOM. EVE TAKES A STEP BACK.
EVE: (CONT'D) Now Aki... it was just a suggestion. (BEAT) There's no need to do anything drastic...
EVE CONTINUES TO BACKPEDAL, AND THE KITCHEN DOOR CLOSES. KEN AND JASMIN LOOK AMUSED AT EVE'S PREDICAMENT.
EVE: (CONT'D) (TO JASMIN) And what do you think you're staring at? (POINTING TO THE CENTERPIECE IN FRONT OF JASMIN) And what is that supposed to be? (BEAT) I told you that I wanted pansies in those vases.
JASMIN: Don't even start with me Eve, because I'm in no mood to deal with it. (BEAT) The florist said that it's the wrong time of the year for pansies, so you'll just have to live with carnations.
EVE: (IRATE) How dare you talk to me that way? I can arrange for you to be out of here, you know.
IAN SPRINTS IN FROM THE SOUND ROOM, AND GETS BETWEEN EVE AND JASMIN.
IAN: Ladies... please... relax.
EVE: Fine. See if I care. I'm just the boss around here tonight, but that (LEERING AT JASMIN) obviously means nothing.
EVE HURRIES OUT TO THE HALLWAY. LOUD FOOTSTEPS CAN BE HEARD GOING UP THE STAIRS.
JASMIN: That woman is impossible.
JASMIN WALKS OFF TO GET MORE FLOWERS.
IAN: (SOTTO VOCE) Not impossible... but clearly upset about something.
HOLD ON IAN'S CONCERN.
CUT TO: DOUG'S PLACE/NICK'S CAFE. THE SCENE IS IN BLACK AND WHITE. THE PLACE IS PACKED WITH PEOPLE DRESSED IN 1930S STYLE. MARTY IS AT THE PIANO, PLAYING GERSWHIN'S "BUT NOT FOR ME." EVE, DRESSED LIKE ELSA IN "CASABLANCA," ENTERS THROUGH THE FRONT DOOR. SHE MAKES HER WAY ACROSS THE ROOM TO THE PIANO.
EVE: Hello, Marty.
MARTY LOOKS UP. WHEN HE SEES EVE, HIS EXPRESSION BETRAYS HIS SHOCK.
MARTY: (STILL PLAYING) Um... Hello, Miss Eve.
EVE: It's been a long time.
MARTY: Yes, it has.
EVE: How have you been?
MARTY: I can't complain. The club's a success, Nick treats me well...
EVE: (LOOKING AROUND) It is a wonderful club. (BEAT) So, is he here?
MARTY: (HESITANT) I'm not sure. He was here earlier, but I haven't seen him in a while.
EVE: I see. (BEAT) Do you do requests?
MARTY: (INSTINCTIVELY) Yes, ma'am, I... (MORE CAUTIOUSLY) Well... I do most requests.
EVE: I have a request.
MARTY STOPS PLAYING.
MARTY: What would you like to hear?
EVE: You know the song I want to hear. Play it for me again... please. (BEAT) Play "As Time Goes By."
MARTY: (NERVOUSLY) I... I don't remember it that well, Miss Eve. It's been such a long time...
EVE: Let me refresh your memory... (SOFTLY SINGS)
![[notes]](../ad_grf/sing.gif){kind=small}
Just remember this, a kiss is just a kiss...
MARTY: I'm sorry. I can't. Nick told me never to play that song in here.
EVE: Please, Marty. Play it for me.
MARTY: (RESIGNEDLY) Okay, Miss Eve...
MARTY BEGINS TO PLAY "AS TIME GOES BY." ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ROOM, NICK APPEARS. WHEN HE HEARS THE SONG, A LOOK OF RAGE CROSSES HIS FACE. HE RUSHES OVER TO THE PIANO. HE APPROACHES FROM BEHIND EVE, SO SHE DOESN'T SEE HIM APPROACH.
NICK: Marty, what the hell do you think you're doing?
MARTY STOPS PLAYING IMMEDIATELY AND LOOKS AT NICK, THEN AT EVE.
NICK: (CONT'D) I told you never to play that damned song...
EVE TURNS AND FACES NICK. HE FALLS SILENT AND LOOKS AT HER IN SHOCK. MARTY QUICKLY CLOSES UP THE PIANO, PUTS THE BENCH ON TOP, AND WHEELS THE PIANO AWAY. NICK AND EVE CONTINUE TO STARE AT ONE ANOTHER. EVE'S EYES ARE WELLING WITH TEARS.
NICK: (CONT'D) (DUMBFOUNDED) I...
HE TURNS AWAY AND RUBS HIS FOREHEAD, TRYING TO GATHER HIS COMPOSURE. WHILE HIS BACK IS TURNED, EVE TURNS AND WALKS AWAY. NICK TURNS AROUND JUST IN TIME TO SEE HER WALK OUT THE FRONT DOOR. HE TAKES A STEP TOWARD HER, THEN STOPS AND WATCHES HER EXIT. OUT ON NICK'S LONGING GAZE.
JACK & JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. THE DECORATIONS ARE ALL IN PLACE. PINK AND WHITE CREPE PAPER HANGS FROM THE CEILING AND IS TWINED AROUND THE BANNISTERS. BALLOONS ARE TIED ON THE BACKS OF CHAIRS AND ON DOORKNOBS. A FEW FLOAT THROUGH THE ROOM. THE PIN-THE-TAIL-ON-THE-DONKEY GAME IS ALL SET TO GO. THE BUFFET TABLE AWAITS THE FOOD. PARTY HATS AND NOISEMAKERS ARE ALL LINED UP ON THE COFFEE TABLE FOR THE GUESTS. ABIGAIL, IN A VERY RUFFLY, STARCHED WHITE DRESS SITS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE FLOOR PLAYING WITH A BALLOON. JENNIFER, LOOKING TIRED, SITS ON THE COUCH WATCHING. THERE IS A KNOCK ON THE DOOR. JENNIFER STRUGGLES TO MOVE OFF THE COUCH BUT BEFORE SHE CAN MAKE IT, ROSIE BUSTLES OUT OF THE KITCHEN AND ANSWERS THE DOOR. MICKEY, ROBERT, DOUG, SHAWN, MAX, CAROLINE, MARCUS, KAYLA AND STEPHANIE ALL CROWD IN AMID MUCH LAUGHTER. JENNIFER, LOOKING MUCH PERKIER NOW, PICKS UP ABIGAIL AND BEGINS TO GREET THE GUESTS.
JENNIFER: Say hi to Uncle Mickey, Abby.
ABIGAIL: Hi, Unca Mick-ee! Present!
MICKEY: Yes, this is for you, Abby! Happy birthday!
STEPHANIE: (JUMPING) This one's for you too, Abby!
KAYLA: Okay, Steffi, calm down. (POINTING) Why don't you put it with the others, over there.
STEPHANIE RUNS TO THE GIFT TABLE. EVERYONE MILLS AROUND, ADMIRING THE DECORATIONS, ABIGAIL'S DRESS, AND TAKING GIFTS TO THE TABLE. JO AND JULIE COME OUT OF THE KITCHEN WITH TRAYS OF DRINKS. FOLLOWING BEHIND ARE MAGGIE AND ROSIE WITH TRAYS OF SNACKS. EVERYONE BEGINS TO NIBBLE. HOLD ON THE HAPPY ACTIVITY.
CUT TO: DOUG'S PLACE/NICK'S CAFE. NICK'S FANTASY CONTINUES. IT'S CLOSING TIME AT NICK'S CAFE. MARTY IS HELPING TO CLEAN UP BY PUTTING THE CHAIRS ON TOP OF THE TABLES. IAN PASSES BY WITH A BROOM, SWEEPING THE FLOORS. NICK, WITH HIS TIE UNDONE, AND HIS COLLAR UNBUTTONED, SHUFFLES IN, CARRYING A BOTTLE OF WHISKEY.
MARTY: You all right, boss?
NICK: (SLURRED) I'll be fine once I forget.
MARTY: (BRUSHING OFF HIS HANDS) Is there anything else you need?
NICK: Yeah. Meet me at the piano.
MARTY WALKS OVER TO THE PIANO AND SITS DOWN. NICK FOLLOWS, STAGGERING SLIGHTLY. HE LEANS AGAINST THE PIANO AND SIGHS.
NICK: (STARING OFF INTO THE DISTANCE) Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, why'd she have to walk into mine?
MARTY: I dunno, boss.
NICK TURNS TO MARTY.
NICK: Play it, Marty.
MARTY: Play what?
NICK: You know. You played it for her, you can play it for me. Play it, Marty.
MARTY NODS, AND LIFTS HIS HANDS TO THE PIANO KEYS. HE STARTS TO PLAY "AS TIME GOES BY." NICK RESTS HIS CHIN ON THE PIANO, CLOSES HIS EYES AND LISTENS. HOLD ON NICK.
CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JACK OPENS THE DOOR TO GREAT ANOTHER GUEST. JOHN ENTERS, CARRYING BRADY IN ONE HAND AND A GIFT IN THE OTHER.
JACK: Mssrs. Black and Black... Please, come in. (TAKING THE PRESENT OUT OF JOHN'S HAND) Let me help you with that.
JOHN: Hi, Jack. (LOOKING AROUND) 'Looks like you've got a full house.
JACK: Jennifer wanted the party to end all parties.
JOHN: 'Looks like she may have gotten her wish.
JACK LAUGHS AND STARTS TO SHUT THE DOOR AS BO AND SHAWN-D WALK UP.
BO: Hey, what kind of a host are you, shutting the door on approaching guests?
JACK: A near-sighted one?
BO: (LAUGHING) From the looks of things, I'd say an overworked one.
JACK: As I was just telling your bro... John, Jennifer's been preparing this for weeks...
BO: Well, thanks for inviting us. I'd hate to miss the biggest party on the Salem social calender.
SHAWN-D: (HOLDING UP A GIFT) Papa, can I go give this to Abby?
BO: I don't know. Jack?
JACK: You can put the gifts over there. (POINTS TO AN ALREADY OVERBURDENED TABLE) We thought we'd wait until later to open all of my daughter's booty. And the food and drink are in the dining room, please help yourselves.
JOHN, BRADY, BO, AND SHAWN-DOUGLAS JOIN THE PARTY. THE DOORBELL RINGS AGAIN.
JACK: (CONT'D) Sheesh... I should never have let Sheldon go. I wonder if he's still available?
JACK OPENS THE DOOR TO FIND BILL AND SHANE.
JACK: (CONT'D) Now this is an interesting combination... my old stakeout buddy and the chief of staff at University Hospital.
BILL: I found him lurking outside...
SHANE: Hey, it's part of my training. Always lurk and check out the surrounding terrain before entering a possibly hazardous area...
BILL: A two year old's birthday party is hazardous?
SHANE: I can see you've never been at a party with Jack.
JACK: Hey, I resent that!
SHANE: Jack, need we remind you of some of your less spectacular moments?
BILL: Laryngitis and a stunt entry into your own wedding...
SHANE: An entire cruise ship exploding around you...
JACK: Okay, I get the picture...
THE DOORBELL RINGS.
JACK: (CONT'D) Saved by the bell...
SHANE AND BILL GROAN.
BILL: Jack, you answer the door, we're going to find the birthday girl...
SHANE: And I have experience in finding missing persons...
BILL: Then lead the way...
BILL AND SHANE JOIN THE GUESTS. JACK OPENS THE DOOR TO RICHARD WHO IS CARRYING A GIFT.
JACK: Richard, good to see you. (LOOKING PAST RICHARD) I assume Vern is still minding the store?
RICHARD ENTERS. JACK CLOSES THE DOOR AND SHOWS RICHARD WHERE TO PUT THE GIFT.
RICHARD: He was when I left. He was waiting for the evening edition to hit the streets. Then, he'll be right over.
JACK: I don't know what I would do without Vern. (BEAT) But please, never tell him I said that.
RICHARD: It will be our secret, boss.
JACK: Good. Now how 'bout something to drink?
RICHARD: 'You buying?
JACK: My wife is...
RICHARD: Even better...
JACK: Watch it...
RICHARD: (SMILES AND SHRUGS) Just an observation...
JACK: Uh-huh... 'Good thing Julie speaks so highly of you...
JACK AND RICHARD WALK INTO THE DINING ROOM.
GO TO: ALICE AND BILL HUGGING.
ALICE: Bill, I'm so glad you could get away from the hospital.
BILL: I am the boss, I just gave myself the day off.
ALICE: It's about time. You work too hard.
BILL: Now come on, Mom, don't start with me. You know what a big responsibility it is...
ALICE: I do. And I know what a wonderful job you're doing. Your father would be proud of you.
JACK AND JENNIFER WALK UP. JENNIFER CARRIES ABIGAIL.
ABIGAIL: Grampa!
BILL: (REACHING OUT TO HOLD ABBY) If it isn't the most beautify birthday girl ever.
ABBY: Birf-day!
BILL: And, how old is my angel today?
ABIGAIL HOLDS UP TWO FINGERS.
BILL: (CONT'D) Two? Already? And, it seemed just like last year you were only one.
THEY LAUGH AS WE GO TO: DOUG AND JULIE TALKING TO RICHARD.
RICHARD: (LOOKING AROUND AT THE CROWD OF HORTONS AND CHILDREN) So, this is how the other half lives?
JULIE: It's quite a change from the quiet single life, isn't it?
RICHARD: Are all these people Hortons?
DOUG: Most, but not all. And don't worry. They're not nearly as imposing at their reputation indicates. There's not a more loving family on the face of the earth.
JULIE: And, they'll love you. Jack is pleased you came.
RICHARD: I'm not sure he would have noticed my absence.
DOUG: Perhaps, but, he'll always remember your presence.
JULIE: How 'bout some punch, darling?
RICHARD: (HOLDING UP HIS DRINK) Thanks, but Jack already got me one.
JULIE: Ummm... I meant my other darling...
RICHARD: (RED-FACED) Oops...
DOUG PUTS HIS ARM AROUND RICHARD'S SHOULDER.
DOUG: 'Looks like you and I are going to have to have a long, long talk about Mrs. Williams...
OUT OF RICHARD'S DISCOMFITURE.
JACK & JENNIFER'S KITCHEN. JENNIFER IS STANDING AT THE KITCHEN TABLE, HUMMING AS SHE MIXES MORE PUNCH IN THE PUNCH BOWL. BILL COMES IN.
BILL: 'Need some help?
JENNIFER: (LAUGHING) 'Trying to escape from that whirlwind of children out there?
BILL LAUGHS AS HE HANDS JENNIFER A BOTTLE OF GINGER ALE.
BILL: They do have an abundance of energy, don't they? But they're a joy to be around. Especially my granddaughter.
JENNIFER: (CHUCKLING) But you're not biased at all.
BILL: Of course not! (BEAT) I'm proud of the way you and Jack are raising Abby. She's so happy and polite.
JENNIFER: I'm glad. Jack and I are so happy to be together and have Abby with us, I guess it just rubs off on her!
BILL: Your Mom is proud of you, too. She might not be able to say it, but I know she is.
JENNIFER STOPS TO HUG BILL.
JENNIFER: I've found myself thinking about Mom a lot today. (BEAT) And Grandpa, too.
BILL: Dad would have been so pleased to see his great-granddaughter so happy and healthy.
JENNIFER: I know that they're both with us in spirit.
BILL: Yes, they are. Today and every day.
THE TWO HUG AGAIN. HOLD ON THEIR EMBRACE.
CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JACK IS SEATED ON THE SOFA, IN THE MIDST OF TALKING AND PLAYING GUESTS. ABIGAIL IS ON HIS LAP. JACK IS POINTING TO A PICTURE OF A TAIL-LESS DONKEY THAT IS TACKED UP ON THE WALL.
JACK: See, you need to study the picture, and figure out how far from the edge the donkey's tail should be. Then, when it's your turn, and you get to the donkey, you quickly feel for the edge of the picture. Once you have the edge, you know exactly where to pin the tail! See?
ABIGAIL GIVES JACK A BEFUDDLED LOOK.
JACK: (CONT'D, RESIGNEDLY) Or, you can just wing it, I guess.
ABIGAIL GIGGLES. THE CORDLESS PHONE RINGS. JO, WHO IS STANDING NEXT TO IT, PICKS IT UP. ONE-WAY.
JO: Deveraux residence. (BEAT) Oh, hello, dear! I'm so glad you called. (BEAT) Yes, they're right here. Hold on just a second.
JO HANDS THE PHONE TO JACK.
JO: (CONT'D) Jack, it's for you...
JACK: Could you take a message for me?
JO: You'll want to take this call. Trust me.
JACK LOOKS SUSPICIOUSLY AT JO AS HE TAKES THE PHONE, TWO-WAY.
JACK: Jack Deveraux.
ADRIENNE: Hey, big brother!
JACK: (GRINNING) Adrienne, hello!
JUSTIN: And Justin, too!
JACK: Well, hello to both of you! How's Texas?
ADRIENNE: Everything's great.
JACK: And the boys?
JUSTIN: Rambunctious as ever! By the time they're done with me, I'll be prepared for a career in professional wrestling!
JACK: Now, Justin, I thought you'd given up that double-life thing...
JUSTIN: I don't know... I guess I can't help myself.
ADRIENNE: Okay, okay, that's enough...
JACK: I suppose you want to talk to the birthday girl, eh?
ADRIENNE: We'd love to.
JACK: All right...
JACK HOLDS THE PHONE UP TO ABIGAIL'S EAR.
JACK: (CONT'D) (TO ABIGAIL) Abigail, it's your Aunt Adrienne and Uncle Justin. Say "hello"...
ABIGAIL: Hi, Auntie Ay-dree! Hi, Unca Justin!
ADRIENNE: Happy birthday, Abby!
JUSTIN: Happy birthday, kiddo!
ADRIENNE: Are you having fun?
ABIGAIL: Fun! Lotsa fun!
JUSTIN: Have you gotten lots of great presents?
ABIGAIL: Presents? (BEAT) Want cake!
ADRIENNE AND JUSTIN LAUGH.
ADRIENNE: Well, honey, there's a present on its way up to Salem right now. It's from me, and Uncle Justin, and your cousins.
ABIGAIL: Present for Abby?
JUSTIN: Yes, just for you.
ABIGAIL: Yippee!
ADRIENNE AND JUSTIN CHUCKLE AT ABIGAIL'S EXUBERANCE. HOLD ON ABIGAIL'S GLEE.
CUT TO: EUTERPE, UPSTAIRS APARTMENT. EVE STANDS IN FRONT OF THE OPEN WINDOW, LOOKING OUT, ARMS CROSSED, CLEARLY UPSET. THERE IS A KNOCK AT THE DOOR.
EVE: Go away...
THE DOOR OPENS, AND IAN ENTERS, CLOSING THE DOOR BEHIND HIM.
EVE: (CONT'D) You'd think with your experience skulking around doors, eavesdropping, you'd be able to hear a perfectly audible "Go away".
IAN: I heard. I chose to ignore.
EVE: Well, thank you so much for your concern. Now, will you please leave me alone?
IAN: I'm afraid I can't do that. You see, I was under the impression we were friends, and when my friend is in a particularly bad mood, my inclination is to try and help.
EVE: What do you mean, "particularly"?
IAN: Well, you haven't exactly been cheerful of late, and I understand that...
EVE: Oh, I'm so glad...
IAN: (IGNORING HER INTERRUPTION) I understand that it's because of the obvious situation with Nick.
EVE: Situation? Oh, you mean the fact that he ruined my life and I haven't forgiven him for it? I think I'd rather not discuss that, if you don't mind too terribly.
IAN: That's fine. I'm not asking about it. I want to know what's going on today that has you so upset?
EVE: As if you care, Mr. Nick Corelli's New Best Friend.
IAN: I can be your friend, and enjoy Nick's company as well. The two are not, as you might wish to believe, mutually exclusive. (BEAT) C'mon, Eve, it's me, your friend. Won't you let down your guard for one blessed moment and talk to me?
EVE: You want to know? Okay. It's because everyone is gone tonight.
IAN: But the club is quiet... do you feel over stressed?
EVE: No, I do not feel "over stressed". But everyone took the night off to go to a party...
IAN: Yes...
EVE: A party... that I wasn't invited to.
HOLD ON EVE'S HURT/ANGER.
JACK & JENNIFER'S KITCHEN. KAYLA IS LOOKING THROUGH THE DIFFERENT DRINKS IN THE REFRIGERATOR.
KAYLA: Coke, Pepsi, Diet Root Beer... (BEAT) Caffeine-Free Diet Cherry 7-Up? No thank you... (BEAT) Aha!
KAYLA PULLS OUT A CAN OF ORANGE CRUSH, AND CLOSES THE REFRIGERATOR DOOR.
KAYLA: (CONT'D) Only Jack would keep a case of this stuff in the refrigerator.
AS KAYLA POURS HER SODA INTO A PLASTIC CUP JACK ENTERS, CARRYING A LARGE BOWL. HE SETS THE BOWL DOWN ON THE COUNTER.
KAYLA: (CONT'D) (MOCK HORROR) Don't tell me the chips are gone already.
JACK: Never fear... there's another bag in the pantry.
JACK OPENS THE PANTRY AND TAKES OUT THE BAG OF POTATO CHIPS. HE OPENS THE BAG AS HE WALKS BACK TO THE BOWL.
JACK: (POURING THE CHIPS INTO THE BOWL) The children seem to inhale these things.
KAYLA: I've noticed. But Jack, didn't you know? They eat them so fast so that they can grow up right before our eyes.
JACK: You could be onto something there. I'd swear Abigail is an inch taller than she was just yesterday...
KAYLA: And Stephanie... her daddy wouldn't believe what a big girl she is now.
JACK: (CHUCKLING SLIGHTLY) There's a lot of things that Steve wouldn't believe. (BEAT) Like the fact that Jennifer and I are married, and that we have Abigail.
KAYLA: Maybe. But Steve always thought you had it in you.
JACK: I... (FOR ONCE JACK IS SPEECHLESS)
KAYLA: You're doing a great job as a husband and father, Jack. (BEAT) Everyone who has seen you with Jennifer and Abby knows that.
KAYLA TAKES A SIP OF HER SODA.
JACK: Thank you, Kayla. (BEAT) You don't know how much I appreciate you saying that. (LONG BEAT) But the truly obvious thing is how well you've done with Stephanie.
KAYLA SMILES, AND PUTS DOWN THE SODA. THE KITCHEN DOOR OPENS A CRACK.
JENNIFER: (V.O.) Jack, what is taking so long! The guests are getting restless for their potato chips!
JACK: (GRABBING THE BOWL) Duty calls.
JACK EXITS THE KITCHEN. HOLD ON KAYLA, SIPPING HER ORANGE CRUSH.
CUT TO: SALEM AIRPORT. NICK'S FANTASY CONTINUES. NICK AND EVE STAND ON THE RUNWAY, NEXT TO A CESSNA AIRPLANE.
NICK: Go on, Evie. Your father's waiting for you.
EVE: I'm not sure about this. It could be a dangerous mission.
NICK: The allies are depending on your father's super spy skills... and your father's depending on you to be there for him.
EVE: But, I don't want to leave you, Nick.
NICK CARESSES EVE'S FACE.
NICK: You have to go. You can't worry about us when the stakes are this high.
EVE: But...
NICK: But, nothing. The problems of two people don't amount to a hill of beans in this world.
EVE: Oh, Nick! What am I ever going to do without you?
NICK: You'll get by... and so will I.
THEY STARE INTO EACH OTHER'S EYES FOR A MOMENT BEFORE EMBRACING. THEY KISS PASSIONATELY. EVE ENDS THE KISS, AND RUNS TO THE PLANE. SHE CLIMBS ABOARD AND TURNS AROUND ONCE MORE TO LOOK AT NICK. HE WINKS. EVE BOARDS THE PLANE AND THE DOORS CLOSE. THE ENGINES START UP, AND THE PLANE BEGINS TO MOVE. AS HE WATCHES THE PLANE TAKE OFF, NICK LIGHTS A CIGARETTE. HE WATCHES, UNTIL THE PLANE IS OUT OF SIGHT. HE TURNS AROUND, AND WALKS TO IAN, WHO WAS WAITING FOR NICK IN THE BACKGROUND.
IAN: Come on, Nick. We've got our own work to do now.
NICK AND IAN BEGIN TO WALK AWAY.
NICK: You know, Ian, I think this could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
HOLD ON NICK AND IAN, WALKING AWAY, INTO THE FOG.
CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S PATIO. RICHARD STANDS ADMIRING AN EXCESSIVELY LARGE, POTTED, JADE PLANT. VERN WALKS UP.
VERN: Is this the Publishing wing of the party?
RICHARD: Vern! A familiar face. Is the evening issue put to bed?
VERN: And nicely tucked in. Which is more than I can say for you?
RICHARD: Pardon?
VERN: You look a little overwhelmed.
RICHARD: I'm not used to so much... energy.
VERN: Large numbers of children who've eaten M&Ms can be a bit much... I know... I raised two boys and a girl...
RICHARD: Vern, I had no idea.
VERN: Yep, Tanner, Brian and Cassie, great kids all.
RICHARD: So you know about this family affair kind of thing.
VERN: Well, Horton celebrations are special. Anyone who comes to a Horton event, is automatically a member of the family.
RICHARD: I don't think I feel quite like a member of the family just yet...
ENTER DOUG AND ROBERT ON RICHARD'S LINE.
DOUG: Nonsense. The Hortons and the Bradys can be intimidating when they get together...
ROBERT: But, they are pretty easy to get used to.
VERN: Ain't that the truth.
RICHARD: You mean, you've all gone through it?
ROBERT: I come from a small, quiet, family. The Hortons and the Bradys are a lot of wonderful things. But, small and quiet they aren't.
VERN: Agreed. Even when my three kids get together, it's nothing like this.
DOUG: And, I didn't have much of a family life growing up. (BEAT) The whole idea was a big adjustment. But, an adjustment that I am glad I got to make.
VERN AND ROBERT NOD IN AGREEMENT.
RICHARD: Thanks for the reassurance. But I still think I could use another drink. Now where was the bar?
OUT ON THE FOUR MEN LAUGHING.
JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. BILL IS SITTING ON THE COUCH WITH ABIGAIL ON HIS LAP.
BILL: You know, Abby. When your mommy turned two, we gave her a big birthday party just like this one.
ABIGAIL: Abby potty!
BILL: I sure hope you meant to say "party".
BILL LIFTS ABIGAIL UP AND CHECKS HIS LAP.
BILL: (CONT'D) Whew!
HE PUTS HER BACK DOWN AND TAPS HER ON THE NOSE.
BILL: (CONT'D) If you promise to keep a secret, I'll give you a hint about what your present is.
ABIGAIL: Present! Yippee!
BILL: (WHISPERING) It's big and fluffy, and very huggable.
JACK WALKS UP TO THEM AND SITS ON THE COUCH NEXT TO BILL.
JACK: I couldn't help but overhear you giving hints to my daughter. I warn you, she's a very smart young lady.
BILL: That she is!
ABIGAIL: Grampa gimme present! Daddy present?
JACK: Of course, Daddy's got a present for you. A very fine present, indeed. But, unlike your grandfather here, I'm not giving any clues.
BILL: That's because your present can't top mine.
JACK: Oh, just wait until you see it.
BILL: Is that so? Wait until next year... and the year after... and the year after that...
JACK: It'll never happen.
BILL: Oh yeah?
ROSIE WALK UP TO THEM, SHAKING A FINGER.
ROSIE: Shame on you two. It sounds like you're in competition for Abby's love.
BILL: I don't think that's what we're doing. Is it, Jack?
JACK: Of course, not.
ROSIE: It definitely sounded like the two of you are in need of a referee.
JACK: I don't think that will be necessary.
BILL: I agree. How about if we both decide to spoil Abby from now on?
ROSIE: What do you think, Abby? Do you really want these two showering you with presents all the time?
ABIGAIL: Presents!
JACK: I believe we have our answer.
HOLD ON ABIGAIL, LAUGHING AND SMILING AT JACK, BILL, AND ROSIE.
CUT TO: EUTERPE, UPSTAIRS APARTMENT. EVE AND IAN, IN PROGRESS
IAN: Why is this particular party important?
EVE: It's Abigail Deveraux's second birthday party.
IAN: Okay... I think I'm confused. Why would you want to be invited to a kiddie birthday party?
EVE: It's not just "kiddies," Ian.
IAN: Still... why would you be invited?
EVE: Well... my Dad was invited...
IAN: Yes, because he's a friend of the family. But why do you think you should have been invited?
EVE: I know the family...
IAN: Yeah, Eve, you do. You're Jack's ex-wife. Certainly, you don't expect that he would have invited his ex-wife to his daughter's birthday party?
EVE: Oh, I do appreciate your understanding, Ian. I feel ever so much better now.
IAN: Eve... I'm not trying to be cruel, I'm just pointing out...
EVE: The obvious? That that's all I am to everyone? An ex? Ex-wife, ex-girlfriend? That's me, Ms. Ex!
IAN: That's not what I...
EVE: Face it, Ian. I have. I'm always alone. And I always will be.
OUT ON EVE'S PAIN.
CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JOHN AND BO SIT ON THE STAIRS, WATCHING THE CHILDREN PLAYING BELOW.
JOHN: Shawn-D's growing fast, Bo. He's going to be looking you in the eye before too long.
BO: Yeah, I know, and I'm not looking forward to it.
JOHN: Me, neither. You know, we should take advantage of the time now while they're still young, Shawn-D and Brady.
BO: Before they discover dating, that's for sure.
JOHN: It may be too late, then. Brady was telling me just last night about his escapades with the young ladies at the day care center.
BO: That'll fade for a while. Shawn-D is in the middle of the "girls are yucky" stage.
JOHN: He'll outgrow it...
BO: Yeah... but even if he didn't... well, I just want him to be happy.
JOHN: Me, too. It's interesting being the father of a son, isn't it?
BO: 'Sure is. I think a lot about my relationship with Pop... and with Victor.
JOHN: I'm glad to hear you're at least thinking about Victor. He really is okay. And I'm as surprised as you are that I'm saying that...
BO: I know. I need to make some movement in that direction, sometime soon. He has changed...
JOHN: As have you, bro.
BO: I've grown up some, that's for sure. But hey! Not enough that I wouldn't enjoy going out and playing with the boys some time... what say you, Brady, Shawn-D and I do some kinda "guy thing" next weekend?
JOHN: 'Sounds good to me. Maybe a minor league game? Since the majors are out of it...
BO: Yeah, that or a Salem U football game?
JOHN: Let's do it.
SHANE APPROACHES THE TWO MEN.
BO: Hi Gov'nor!
JOHN: Hey, Shane, pull up a step. We were just talking about "guy stuff."
BO: Which reminds me, when is Kimmy sending Andrew out to visit again? We should all three take our boys out.
SHANE: We haven't scheduled the next visit yet, what with school and all... but that sounds like a wonderful idea.
THERE IS A MOMENT'S PAUSE WHILE THE THREE WATCH THE KIDS.
SHANE: (CONT'D) I wanted... part of the reason I came over was because I wanted to make sure you both understood... I had no idea whatsoever that Nick was still alive.
JOHN: Of course.
SHANE: I had nothing to do with it, the I.S.A.'s plan to keep him hidden away, bringing him back in the fashion they did, none of it.
BO: I know that, Shane.
JOHN: There's never been any question in my mind, Shane. I know you're a straight-shooting guy. You don't keep secrets like that, the kind that can be so potentially dangerous.
SHANE: Thanks. I wish everyone knew that, and believed it...
BO: Hmmm... You couldn't possibly be referring to my boss, the esteemed Captain Yamada, could you?
JOHN: The plot thickens...
SHANE: Is it that obvious?
BO: Well, I'm being a good detective here. You and the Captain had been working pretty closely together, and now, well, you haven't been your usual self, and the Captain...
SHANE: What's wrong with her?
BO: She's been, for lack of a better word, in a funk. Irritable, or moody and depressed, and burying herself in work...
SHANE: Damn. I wish there was a way to make her understand...
OUT ON SHANE'S FRUSTRATION.
JACK & JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JACK AND JENNIFER ARE SITTING ON THE COUCH, WITH ABIGAIL BETWEEN THEM. THE BIRTHDAY GIRL IS PLAYING WITH HER NEW STUFFED BUNNY. THE PARTY GUESTS ARE MILLING AROUND THE ROOM. JACK LOOKS AT THE COFFEE TABLE, WHICH IS SERVING AS THE REPOSITORY FOR ABIGAIL'S GIFTS.
JACK: (IMPRESSED) I see that I'm not the only one who likes to shower Abigail with material goods.
JENNIFER: I don't know where we're going to put all this stuff, Jack. (BEAT) Unless your next gift is a bigger house...
JACK: I'll see if it will fit under the Christmas tree.
JENNIFER STARTS TO LAUGH, WHICH CAUSES ABIGAIL TO START GIGGLING. ALICE WALKS OVER TO THE COUCH.
ALICE: And how is my darling great-granddaughter? I have hardly had a chance to spoil the birthday girl today.
JACK: (GETTING UP FROM THE COUCH) Please, Mrs. Horton, sit right down and spoil away.
ALICE TAKES JACK'S PLACE ON THE COUCH. ABIGAIL HANDS ALICE HER BUNNY.
ABIGAIL: Say hi Fluffy?
ALICE: (TAKING THE BUNNY'S PAW) Why hello there, Fluffy. (BEAT) Aren't you lucky to have a little girl like Abigail to play with?
ABIGAIL LAUGHS, AND SQUEEZES FLUFFY TIGHTLY.
ALICE: (CONT'D) (TO JACK AND JENNIFER) Tom would be so proud of the way that you're raising her.
JACK: (TOUCHED) Thank you, Mrs. Horton.
JENNIFER: Grandpa's praise means... meant a lot to both of us.
AS JENNIFER SPEAKS, ABIGAIL GETS OFF THE COUCH, WALKS AROUND ALICE, AND GOES OVER TO JACK.
ABIGAIL: Daddy, want cake!
ALICE: (CHUCKLING) And this just proves that she's a Horton. (BEAT) Always ready for dessert!
JACK: Yes, well... Jennifer, I guess it is about time to light the candles and bring out the cake.
HOLD ON ABIGAIL'S EXCITEMENT.
CUT TO: NICK'S CAFE/DOUG'S PLACE. STILL IN BLACK & WHITE/NICK'S FANTASY. THE CAMERA PANS ACROSS THE ROOM SHOWING THE PATRONS IN THEIR FANCY DRESS AND JEWELS HAVING A WONDERFUL TIME. MARTY PLAYS THE PIANO AS COUPLES SWAY ON THE DANCE FLOOR. GRADUALLY, THE PEOPLE FADE AWAY AND THE PICTURE TURNS TO COLOR. THE CAMERA CONTINUES TO PAN ACROSS THE ROOM, NOW SHOWING THE EMPTY CLUB AS IT STANDS TODAY. IT STOPS ON NICK, LEANING ON THE DUSTY PIANO. HE STRAIGHTENS UP AND LOOKS AROUND THE ROOM WITH SATISFACTION.
NICK: (NODDING) Yeah.
NICK WALKS TO THE CENTER OF THE ROOM.
NICK: (CONT'D) I think I could make something of this joint.
NICK STARTS FOR THE DOOR, BUT THEN TURNS AND LOOKS AROUND THE ROOM AGAIN. HE TOSSES THE KEYS UP IN THE AIR AND CATCHES THEM. HE GRINS WIDELY AND LAUGHS.
NICK: (CONT'D) Definitely.
NICK GOES OUT THE DOOR AND SHUTS IT WITH A FIRM CLICK. WE HEAR HIM WHISTLING AS HE GOES DOWN THE PATH. HOLD ON THE CLOSED DOOR.
CUT TO: JACK & JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. EVERYONE HAS GATHERED EXPECTANTLY AROUND THE DINING ROOM TABLE. ALICE AND JENNIFER LEAD ABIGAIL OVER AND STAND HER ON A CHAIR. JENNIFER WALKS OVER AND DIMS THE LIGHTS. JACK EMERGES FROM THE KITCHEN BEARING THE BIRTHDAY CAKE WITH THREE LIT CANDLES.
DOUG: (SINGING)
Happy birthday to you...
ROBERT BEGINS TO "CONDUCT" AS EVERYONE JOINS IN SINGING TO ABIGAIL. AS THE SONG ENDS EVERYONE APPLAUDS. ABIGAIL POINTS TO THE CANDLES.
ABIGAIL: One, two, free!
JENNIFER: That's right. One candle for each birthday. (POINTING) One, two!
JACK: And one for good luck! Three!
JENNIFER HOLDS ABIGAIL AROUND THE WAIST.
JENNIFER: Ready to blow out the candles, sweetie? Mommy will help, okay?
ABIGAIL: No, Mommy!
JENNIFER: (PUZZLED) No? You want to do it yourself?
ABIGAIL: Daddy help, too. (POINTING TO HERSELF) One! (POINTING TO JACK AND JENNIFER) Two! Free!
EVERYONE LAUGHS. JACK LEANS DOWN ON THE OTHER SIDE OF ABIGAIL.
JACK: Ready? Make a wish!
THE THREE OF THEM BLOW OUT THE CANDLES AND EVERYONE APPLAUDS. ABIGAIL SQUEALS WITH DELIGHT.
ABIGAIL: Cake! Cake!
JACK SWINGS ABIGAIL UP INTO ONE ARM AND HUGS JENNIFER WITH HIS OTHER ARM. THE TWO OF THEM SIMULTANEOUSLY KISS ABIGAIL'S CHEEKS. AND OUT. FADE TO BLACK.