ALT.DAYS

Episode #83

An ALT.DAYS Production,
A Division of Peel Productions, Inc.
Air Date: December 23, 1994
Time: Several Days After #82,
Morning to Late Afternoon

Copyright 1994

TEASER

JACK & JENNIFER'S BEDROOM. AN EXHAUSTED-LOOKING JACK OPENS THE BEDROOM DOOR. JENNIFER IS ASLEEP UNDER THE COVERS. JACK CROSSES THE ROOM AND LAYS DOWN ABOVE THE COVERS; HE DOESN'T BOTHER TO CHANGE INTO HIS PAJAMAS.

JACK: (SOTTO VOCE) Never again...

JENNIFER'S RIGHT HAND REACHES FOR JACK'S SIDE OF THE BED. WHEN SHE FEELS HIS ARM, SHE TURNS OVER TO FACE HIM.

JENNIFER: (GROGGY) Did you get the dollhouse finished?

JACK: (YAWNING) Uh-huh...

JENNIFER SETTLES BACK UNDER THE COVERS. JACK STARTS TO DRIFT OFF TO SLEEP; HIS RIGHT ARM DANGLES OFF THE EDGE OF THE BED. AS HE STARTS TO SNORE, ABIGAIL APPEARS IN THE DOORWAY.

ABIGAIL: Mommy? (BEAT) Daddy?

JACK AND JENNIFER DON'T RESPOND. ABIGAIL GOES OVER TO THEIR BED, AND TUGS ON JACK'S DANGLING ARM.

JACK: (STARTLED) Whatza?

ABIGAIL: Daddy... presents!

JACK: My dear sweet... Abigail... the presents aren't going anywhere. (BEAT) Why don't you go back to your room, and Mommy and I will come get you in a little bit?

ABIGAIL: Presents!

JENNIFER TURNS OVER AND OPENS ONE EYE; SHE SEES THAT HER DAUGHTER IS TRYING TO DRAG JACK OUT OF BED.

ABIGAIL: (CONT'D) Presents!

JENNIFER: Come on, Jack... she's not going to let us get back to sleep.

HOLD ON JACK AS HE SINKS DEJECTEDLY BACK ON HIS PILLOW.

CUT TO: KAYLA'S LIVING ROOM. THERE IS A SMALL MOUNTAIN OF WRAPPING PAPER CRUMPLED UP ON THE FLOOR. STEPHANIE, STILL IN HER PAJAMAS, IS TEARING THROUGH HER GIFTS AS KAYLA AND MARCUS SIT ON THE COUCH WATCHING INDULGENTLY.

STEPHANIE: Oh Mommy, look! Barbie's Stable! I knew Santa would remember.

STEPHANIE STRUGGLES TO OPEN THE BOX AND MARCUS GETS DOWN ON ONE KNEE TO HELP.

KAYLA: That's because you've been a very good girl this year. I'll bet if you open that package in green paper there will be something to go with it.

STEPHANIE ABANDONS THE STABLE TO GO FOR THE NEXT GIFT. SHE RIPS IT OPEN TO REVEAL A TOY HORSE. SHE HUGS IT TO HER CHEST.

STEPHANIE: It's the painted pony! He's my favorite! (BEAT) Uncle Marcus, will you help me put the stable up?

MARCUS: (HUGGING STEPHANIE) I sure will, honey. We'll get all your new toys put together. You just tell me which you want first.

STEPHANIE: The stable! No, wait... the dress-up table. And then...

STEPHANIE LOOKS AROUND AT ALL HER GIFTS, BEWILDERED.

STEPHANIE: (CONT'D) Oh, I don't know what to play with first!

KAYLA AND MARCUS LAUGH. KAYLA HOLDS OUT HER ARMS.

KAYLA: Come up here for a minute, Sweetness. I have one more surprise for you.

STEPHANIE BOUNDS OVER TO THE COUCH AND SITS IN KAYLA'S LAP.

STEPHANIE: What is it, Mommy? What's the surprise?

HOLD ON STEPHANIE'S EXCITEMENT.

CUT TO: HORTON LIVING ROOM. MAGGIE AND ROSIE ARE TAKING OFF THEIR COATS AND ALICE HANGS THEM UP.

ALICE: My, you're early. I wasn't expecting you for another hour.

MAGGIE: Not too early, I hope.

ALICE: Heavens no. I was just having a cup of coffee. Let me get you some.

ROSIE: With the army you feed around here, Alice, we're gonna need the extra hour to get things ready.

ALICE LEADS ROSIE AND MAGGIE INTO THE KITCHEN.

CUT TO: HORTON KITCHEN. WHILE ALICE SETS OUT THE CUPS AND POURS THE COFFEE, MAGGIE AND ROSIE SEAT THEMSELVES AT THE TABLE.

MAGGIE: So, how are you doing, Alice?

ALICE: You mean, how is my first Christmas without Tom?

ROSIE: We're all gonna miss him this year.

ALICE: Yes, we are. It's hard to get into the spirit of the holidays without him. But, once the house fills up with family, I'll be fine.

MAGGIE: (TRYING TO ACT NONCHALANT) Where's Bill?

ALICE: He's at the hospital already.

ROSIE: Dr. Bill must have gotten up at the crack of dawn.

ALICE: He did. He said he had some sort of emergency...

MAGGIE: Hope it was nothing serious...

ALICE: I don't think so... Although he did ask me to stop by the hospital later. (BEAT) I hope there's not a problem with the volunteers...

MAGGIE: I doubt it. Everyone knows we have the best volunteers in all of Salem.

ALICE: Hmmm... but he did say to bring along you two...

MAGGIE AND ROSIE EXCHANGE A QUICK GLANCE.

MAGGIE: Must be the hospital Christmas party.

ALICE: Oh, of course. I should have thought of that. I wonder who they got to play Santa this year?

OUT ON MAGGIE AND ROSIE'S CONSPIRATORIAL GLANCE.

ACT I

BRADY PUB. MAX SITS ON A STOOL AT THE BAR LOOKING BORED. CAROLINE SETS OUT HORS D'OEUVRES. SHAWN IS JUST WALKING INTO THE ROOM. THE PHONE RINGS. CAROLINE ANSWERS, TWO WAY. IT'S KIMBERLY.

CAROLINE: Happy Holidays!

KIMBERLY: Merry Christmas, Ma!

CAROLINE: Kimmie! Merry Christmas! How are you?

SHAWN STANDS NEXT TO CAROLINE, LISTENING IN.

KIMBERLY: Everyone here is great. It's gorgeous and sunny and nearly 80 degrees!

CAROLINE: I don't miss that brown Christmas, but I do miss you. It's not going to be the same without you.

KIMBERLY: Maybe next year we can get everyone back to Salem for a big Brady Christmas.

SHAWN: Hey, when do I get a turn to talk to my daughter?

CAROLINE: Your father wants to talk. Here he is.

CAROLINE HANDS THE PHONE TO SHAWN.

SHAWN: Is that my best and my brightest?

KIMBERLY: Merry Christmas, Pop. Was Santa good to you this year?

SHAWN: Santa's been good to me every year. (BEAT) Where're me grandchildren?

KIMBERLY: Oh, Pop. They got up at 5:00 this morning to open presents. While I've been talking to you and Ma, they fell asleep on the floor.

SHAWN: Be sure to give them a hug and kiss from Gramma and Grampa when they wake up.

KIMBERLY: Will do. Is Max there? I want to wish him a Merry Christmas.

SHAWN: Here he is.

SHAWN PASSES THE PHONE TO MAX.

MAX: (UNENTHUSIASTICALLY) Hello.

KIMBERLY: Were you a good boy this year, Max? Did Santa bring you everything you asked for.

MAX: I'm too old to believe in Santa...

KIMBERLY: Well, what did you get?

MAX: Some clothes. Some video game cartridges...

KIMBERLY: Sounds great. (BEAT) Have a great Christmas. Tell everyone I love them.

MAX: Okay. Say, "Hi" to Jeannie and Andrew. Bye.

MAX HANGS UP THE PHONE AND WALKS AWAY. AS MAX IS ABOUT TO LEAVE THE ROOM, THE PHONE RINGS. MAX STOPS TO FIND OUT WHO IS ON THE PHONE. SHAWN ANSWERS. IT IS CARRIE. TWO WAY.

SHAWN: Merry Christmas.

CARRIE: Merry Christmas, Grampa.

SHAWN: Carrie! (COVERING THE MOUTHPIECE) It's Carrie! (BACK INTO THE RECEIVER) Darlin' how are you? We miss you!

CARRIE: And I miss you. But Mom and I are having a great time. We spent the last week shopping. This morning we exchanged gifts. This afternoon we're going to dinner at some friends' house. Then, tonight, we're going to see "The Nutcracker."

SHAWN: That's quite a full day, darlin'. I'm glad ya found time ta call us.

CARRIE: As if I wouldn't call on Christmas Day...

CAROLINE SIGNALS THAT SHE WANTS TO TALK TO CARRIE.

SHAWN: Carrie, here's your grandmother.

SHAWN HANDS THE PHONE TO CAROLINE.

CAROLINE: Merry Christmas! How are things there?

CARRIE: They're wonderful. Mom and I are really starting to communicate. I think we can work through most of our differences. The ones we can't work through, we'll have to learn to accept.

CAROLINE: I'm glad... For all her eccentricities... Anna is a good person and she loves you.

CARRIE: I know... and I love her...

MAX IS STANDING NEXT TO CAROLINE IMPATIENTLY WAITING FOR THE PHONE. HE TUGS ON CAROLINE'S ARM.

CAROLINE: And we love you and miss you! But if I don't pass this phone to Max, I'm going to be missing an arm. Bye, dear.

CAROLINE HANDS THE PHONE TO MAX.

MAX: Hi Carrie!

CARRIE: Merry Christmas, Max! How are you?

MAX: All right, but I miss you...

CARRIE: And I miss you. But I promise... we'll have lots of time together when I get back.

MAX: Okay...

CARRIE: Come on, cheer up. Did you get everything you wanted for Christmas?

MAX: Yeah... It's great being the youngest. Ma and Pop get me everything. I got some really cool video games... And, you should see the new clothes I got...

GO TO: CAROLINE AND SHAWN WHO ARE STANDING NEAR THE BAR, DISCUSSING THE GUESTS FOR DINNER.

SHAWN: Will Shane be comin' ta eat with us.

CAROLINE: Yes. And, he's bringing Janet Yamada.

SHAWN: Shane and Janet seem to be getting serious.

CAROLINE: I think they're just friends.

SHAWN: Is Eve comin' as well?

CAROLINE: I'm not sure. Eve hadn't made up her mind, last I heard. (BEAT) And, before you even ask, yes. Kayla and Marcus are coming together.

HOLD ON SHAWN.

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. BARELY AWAKE AND DRESSED IN ROBES, JACK AND JENNIFER SIT ON THE COUCH AND WATCH ABIGAIL. ABIGAIL IS HAPPILY BOUNCING AROUND THE LIVING ROOM, PLAYING WITH THE WRAPPING PAPER AND BOWS, BUT IGNORING HER PRESENTS.

JENNIFER: How can a person so small have so much energy?

JACK: I don't know. I'm also starting to wonder if we shouldn't have bothered with actual presents, and simply wrapped empty boxes for the child.

ABIGAIL SITS ON THE FLOOR AND LAUGHS AS SHE TOSSES A BUNCH OF BOWS IN THE AIR.

JENNIFER: (SMILES) At least she's having a great Christmas morning.

JENNIFER KISSES JACK ON THE CHEEK.

JENNIFER: (CONT'D) And thanks to my wonderful husband, so am I.

JENNIFER PICKS UP A BOX AND TAKES OUT A PAIR OF ELEGANT PEARL DROPLET EARRINGS, AND A BEAUTIFUL PEARL BRACELET.

JACK: I take it, that you like my gift to you?

JENNIFER: Like it? Jack, I love it. They perfectly match my mother's pearl necklace that Dad gave me for my birthday.

JACK TRIES TO HOLD BACK A SMILE.

JACK: Do they? I hadn't noticed.

JENNIFER: Jack Harcourt Deveraux, you are the sweetest, most thoughtful person in the entire universe.

JACK: Thank you, my dear. But, I'm afraid I'd be in some heavy competition with you.

JACK REACHES DOWN AND PICKS UP TWO ANTIQUE TRAIN CARS, AND AN ENGINEER'S HAT. HE PUTS ON THE HAT AND LOOKS THOUGHTFULLY AT THE TRAIN CARS.

JACK: (CONT'D) I don't know how you found these.

JENNIFER: Frank, down in advertising, is a big train collector. He pointed me to the place.

JACK: (SENTIMENTAL) Steve would have loved this... He had a toy train... he showed it to me once... (TURNS TOWARDS JENNIFER, AND TAKES HER HAND) Thank you. This means a lot to me.

JACK AND JENNIFER'S TENDER MOMENT IS INTERRUPTED, WHEN ABIGAIL TUGS ON JENNIFER'S ROBE.

ABIGAIL: Mommy! Pretty bows!

ABIGAIL HANDS JENNIFER A RED AND GOLD BOW.

JENNIFER: Thank you, honey. (REACHES FOR A STUFFED BEAR) Abby, what do you want to name your bear?

ABIGAIL'S ATTENTION TURNS TO A LARGE EMPTY BOX. SHE WALKS OVER TO THE BOX AND STARTS TO PLAY WITH IT.

JENNIFER: Abby, don't you want to play with your new trains?

ABIGAIL IGNORES JENNIFER, AND PLACES THE BOX OVER HER HEAD. HOLD ON JACK AND JENNIFER, BURSTING INTO LAUGHTER.

CUT TO: KAYLA'S LIVING ROOM. KAYLA, MARCUS AND STEPHANIE. IN PROGRESS.

KAYLA: Stephanie, sweetheart... your Uncle Marcus asked me to marry him.

KAYLA SHOWS STEPHANIE THE RING.

KAYLA: (CONT'D) And I said yes. (BEAT) How do you feel about this?

STEPHANIE LOOKS UP AT HER MOTHER.

STEPHANIE: Does this mean that Uncle Marcus will be my Daddy?

MARCUS: Come here, Steffi...

MARCUS KNEELS DOWN AND OUTSTRETCHES HIS ARMS; STEPHANIE WALKS OVER TO HIM.

MARCUS: I could never replace your Daddy, sweetheart. (BEAT) But I couldn't love you more if you were my own daughter.

KAYLA'S EYES WELL WITH TEARS.

MARCUS: (CONT'D) And I promise that I'll always be there for you and your Mom.

STEPHANIE GIVES MARCUS A HUG, THEN RUNS OVER TO KAYLA.

STEPHANIE: Can I be in the wedding, Mommy?

KAYLA: (SMILING) I wouldn't have it any other way. (BEAT) You're sure that you're happy?

STEPHANIE: Mommy... this is cool!

KAYLA HUGS HER DAUGHTER TIGHTLY. MARCUS WATCHES THEIR EMBRACE.

MARCUS: (SOTTO VOCE) I just hope that everyone feels that way.

OUT ON MARCUS' LAMENT.

ACT II

BRADY PUB. SHAWN AND CAROLINE, IN PROGRESS.

CAROLINE: Listen to me, Shawn. I wish you'd understand.

SHAWN: I do understand. But, I don't hafta like it.

CAROLINE: Can you at least be grateful that your daughter has found love again?

SHAWN: With Marcus.

CAROLINE: Yes, with Marcus. Our Kayla's happy. Can't you be a little bit happy for her?

SHAWN: I wish everyone would just see the point I'm makin'!

CAROLINE: I think everyone knows your view.

SHAWN: Don't be makin' assumptions. (SOFTER) I love my darlin' Kayla. Of course I want to see her happy again.

CAROLINE: What about Marcus?

SHAWN: I don't have nothin' against him. You might not believe me, but I do like the man.

CAROLINE: But, you just don't like him seeing Kayla?

SHAWN: Ya ain't listenin' to me! That's the problem. Nobody's payin' any attention to the real issue.

CAROLINE: And, what would that be?

SHAWN: I see all the problems that Kayla and Marcus could face as a couple, and everyone else is too darned optimistic to face it.

SHAWN STORMS OFF INTO THE KITCHEN. HOLD ON CAROLINE, TAKING A DEEP BREATH.

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. KAYLA, MARCUS AND STEPHANIE HAVE JUST COME IN AND ARE TAKING OFF THEIR COATS. EVERYONE MOVES INTO THE LIVING ROOM AND SITS DOWN. KAYLA HOLDS A GIFT BAG OUT TO ABIGAIL.

KAYLA: This is for you, Abby honey. From your Aunt Kayla and Cousin Stephanie.

JACK WALKS OVER TO THE TREE AND PULLS OUT A BRIGHTLY WRAPPED PACKAGE. HE HANDS IT TO STEPHANIE.

JACK: And this is for you, Stephanie. From me and Aunt Jennifer and Abigail.

THE TWO GIRLS SIT ON THE FLOOR TO OPEN THEIR GIFTS. ABIGAIL PULLS OUT STUFFED SIMBA AND NALA DOLLS FROM "THE LION KING."

ABIGAIL: Look! Simba and Nala!

JENNIFER: I see! Aren't you a lucky girl? What do you say to your Aunt Kayla?

ABIGAIL: Roooooooaaaaaaarrrrrrrrr!!!!!!!

EVERYONE LAUGHS. STEPHANIE LETS OUT A SQUEAL WHEN SHE SEES THAT HER GIFT IS A TINKERBELLE MAKE-UP AND PERFUME SET. SHE RUNS TO HUG JACK AND JENNIFER.

STEPHANIE: Thank you! Thank you! Mommy, can I put the nail polish on right now?

KAYLA: Not right now, honey. But when we get to Grandma's, okay? (BEAT) Why don't you check out Abby's new dollhouse?

STEPHANIE AND ABIGAIL HEAD FOR THE DOLLHOUSE AND BEGIN TO PLAY TOGETHER.

MARCUS: (LOOKING AT THE DOLLHOUSE) Did you put that together yourself, Jack? It looks great.

JACK: (PROUDLY) Yes, I did. Two smashed thumbs and a worn temper later... But it's all worth it to see my little girl happy.

THE ADULTS WATCH THE CHILDREN.

KAYLA: I know the feeling. (SHAKING HER HEAD) Just look at how big they're getting.

JACK: Stephanie is such a little lady these days. I'm sure Steve would be amazed.

JACK NOTICES KAYLA'S FLEETING SADNESS AT THE MENTION OF STEVE.

JACK: (CONT'D) Uh-oh, did I say something wrong? If bringing up Steve hurts...

KAYLA PATS JACK'S HAND.

KAYLA: No, it's all right. I'll always want Steve to be part of our lives, but... (BEAT) Marcus and I have something to tell you.

JENNIFER: What is it?

KAYLA LOOKS AT MARCUS AND HE SMILES ENCOURAGINGLY. SHE SMILES BACK.

KAYLA: Jack, I wanted you to be the first to know, even before my family...

JACK: (CLEARLY PUZZLED) Okay...

KAYLA: It's funny, really. We've had such a difficult past... But somehow I won't feel right unless I have your blessing.

JACK: My blessing? For what?

HOLD ON JACK'S QUESTION.

CUT TO: DOUG AND JULIE'S BEDROOM. A SMALL TREE IS ON THE TABLE BY THE FRENCH DOORS. TWO GIFTS LAY UNDER IT. JULIE LIES SLEEPING. DOUG IS AWAKE AND WATCHING HER. HE BLOWS SOFTLY ON HER HAIR.

DOUG: (WHISPERING) Awake, Fair Lady. It's time to see what Pere Noel has left for you.

JULIE STIRS AND OPENS HER EYES. SHE AND DOUG KISS.

JULIE: Merry Christmas, Darling.

DOUG: And a very Merry Christmas to you, my love. Would you like your gift now or later?

JULIE: Oh now, definitely.

THE TWO GET OUT OF BED AND PAD OVER TO THE TABLE. DOUG HANDS JULIE A SMALL FLAT BOX. SHE HANDS HIM A LARGER BOX.

DOUG: You first.

JULIE: No, you.

DOUG: (LAUGHING) We go through this every year, it seems. Together, on the count of three?

JULIE: Good idea.

TOGETHER: One... two... three!

THEY BOTH START TO OPEN THEIR GIFTS, BUT DOUG STOPS TO WATCH JULIE'S REACTION. SHE GASPS AS SHE OPENS THE BOX AND TAKES OUT A STUNNING SAPPHIRE NECKLACE.

JULIE: Oh, Doug. It's absolutely gorgeous!

DOUG TAKES THE NECKLACE FROM HER AND POINTS OUT VARIOUS FEATURES.

DOUG: I had it made especially for you... see... I swear the sapphires are the exact color of your eyes... And the clasp is a J and a D entwined... forever...

DOUG MOVES BEHIND JULIE TO PUT THE NECKLACE ON HER, KISSING HER NECK AS HE DOES SO.

DOUG: (CONT'D) Just like us.

JULIE TURNS IN HIS ARMS AND GIVES HIM A KISS FULL ON THE MOUTH.

JULIE: Thank you, darling. I love it! (BEAT) Now yours, finish opening yours.

JULIE LOOKS ON ANXIOUSLY AS DOUG OPENS HIS GIFT. HE PULLS OUT A PURPLE VELVET DRESSING GOWN, LINED IN PAISLEY SILK.

DOUG: Oh, my! Thank you, sweetheart.

DOUG CROSSES TO THE MIRROR TO TRY ON THE ROBE. HE PREENS IN FRONT OF THE MIRROR AS JULIE SMOOTHS IT DOWN HIS ARMS. HE TURNS TO KISS JULIE. THEIR EMBRACE BECOMES MORE PASSIONATE.

JULIE: (BREATHLESS) You know, that doesn't look quite right to me now that I see it on you.

DOUG: What do you mean? I think it looks splendid!

JULIE CARESSES DOUG'S CHEST.

JULIE: It would look much better hanging over the bedpost, don't you think?

DOUG LETS OUT A THROATY CHUCKLE AND BEGINS TO KISS JULIE'S NECK.

DOUG: I can see what you mean. Those stones clash horrendously with your gown.

THEY KISS AND MOVE TOWARDS THE BED, WHEN THEY ARE STARTLED BY A KNOCK ON THE DOOR.

CJ: Doug? Julie? Are you awake? It's Christmas!

DOUG AND JULIE LOOK AT EACH OTHER AND MOUTH THE NAME "CJ." OUT ON DOUG AND JULIE'S SILENT LAUGHTER.

ACT III

JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. JACK, JENNIFER, KAYLA, MARCUS, STEPHANIE AND ABIGAIL. IN PROGRESS.

JACK: I'm a little confused. What could you possibly want my blessing for?

KAYLA: For my wedding.

JACK AND JENNIFER: (SHOCKED) Your wedding?

KAYLA: Uh-huh.

MARCUS: I proposed...

KAYLA: And I accepted.

JENNIFER: That's wonderful! Congratulations!

JENNIFER GIVES KAYLA A HUG AS JACK SHAKES MARCUS' HAND. THEN, JENNIFER HUGS MARCUS AND JACK HUGS KAYLA.

KAYLA: I take that to mean we have your blessing?

JACK: What else could I say? I'm sure that Steve would be happy that you've found love again.

KAYLA SIGHS AND SMILES.

JACK: (CONT'D) (LOOKING AT MARCUS) And I can't think of another man of whom Steve would more approve.

MARCUS: I'd hoped you'd think so.

JACK: I know so.

JENNIFER TAKES JACK'S HAND.

MARCUS: I just have one question for you, Jack.

JACK: And that is...?

MARCUS: When you married Jennifer, I acted as your best man. (BEAT) Would you do the same for me, now?

JACK: (STUNNED) What...? (BEAT) Me?

KAYLA: Yes, Jack. You.

MARCUS NODS.

JACK: I... I would be honored.

MARCUS: I'm glad. You were my first choice.

KAYLA: His only choice. Mine, too. (BEAT) And Jennifer...

JENNIFER: Yes?

KAYLA: I'll be asking Kimberly to be my matron of honor, but I'd like you to be one of my bridesmaids.

JENNIFER: I'd like that very much.

KAYLA: Good.

JACK: Well, I think this calls for champagne!

JENNIFER: Um... Jack?

JACK: Yes?

JENNIFER: Isn't it a little early in the day for champagne?

JACK: Nonsense! It's never too early for champagne! Especially on an occasion like this. (TO KAYLA AND MARCUS) Am I right?

KAYLA: Uh... Yeah, right.

MARCUS: Sure!

JACK: (TO JENNIFER) See?

JENNIFER ROLLS HER EYES AND JACK SMILES WITH SATISFACTION. KAYLA AND MARCUS CHUCKLE AND KISS. HOLD ON KAYLA AND MARCUS.

CUT TO: BRADY PUB. BO AND SHAWN-DOUGLAS ARE TAKING OFF THEIR COATS IN THE ENTRYWAY WHEN JOHN AND BRADY ARRIVE.

BRADY: Merry Chrithmuth, Unca Bo.

BO: And Merry Christmas to you, Brady. (BEAT) Did you get a bunch of cool stuff from Santa?

BRADY NODS ENTHUSIASTICALLY AS JOHN TRIES TO HELP HIM OUT OF HIS COAT.

JOHN: How about you, Shawn-Douglas? (BEAT) Did the jolly old elf leave you anything good?

SHAWN-D: I got a new computer! (BEAT) It's got a CD ROM and everything!

JOHN: (GIVING BO A WINK) Very cool gift, Shawn-D. (BEAT) Why don't you and Brady go check out the tree.

SHAWN-D: Okay. C'mon Brady.

THE BOYS HEAD TO THE OTHER SIDE OF THE PUB.

JOHN: So Santa... did the Salem PD start giving out computers as Christmas bonuses?

BO: Not quite. (BEAT) Victor approached me about it a few weeks ago... and it is something that can help him with his homework.

JOHN: Sure it is... something tells me that by the end of the week, he'll be telling you about all the new games he wants to play on it.

BO: (CHUCKLING) You're probably right... (BEAT) So, what did you find out in Brookville?

JOHN: I found out more than I could have hoped for. (BEAT) But today's not the time to discuss this. Today, we enjoy life, and gorge ourselves on one of Caroline Brady's infamous holiday meals.

CAROLINE WALKS UP TO THEM, HAVING HEARD HER NAME MENTIONED.

CAROLINE: Looking for me?

JOHN: Hi, Caroline.

BO: Hi, Ma.

JOHN AND BO EACH GIVE CAROLINE A KISS ON THE CHEEK. SHE HAS CHANGED OUT OF HER WORK CLOTHES, AND INTO HER GOOD SILK DRESS AND COORDINATED SHOES.

CAROLINE: Well, now that everyone's here, we can go to the Hospital Chapel together. (TAKING JOHN'S HAND) Just like a family should.

JOHN SMILES.

CAROLINE: (CONT'D) (SHOUTING) Shawn! It's time to go.

HOLD ON THE MAD RUSH TO GET THE BRADY CLAN BACK INTO THEIR COATS AND OUT THE DOOR.

CUT TO: DOUG AND JULIE'S BEDROOM. DOUG, JULIE AND CJ. IN PROGRESS.

JULIE: We're coming CJ. Just a moment, darling.

DOUG OPENS THE DOOR. CJ BOUNDS IN LIKE A KID. HE CARRIES TWO PACKAGES.

CJ: I hope I didn't wake you. I have a hard time containing myself on Christmas morning.

DOUG: It's okay. We were already awake.

CJ: Papa and I have had some wonderful Christmases around the world.

JULIE: Yes, but my favorite Christmases were the ones you spent here in Salem.

CJ: Yes... there is something special about this place... (BEAT) And, today... today I have so much to celebrate. Papa's starting to recover. And, I'm staying with two of my favorite people in the whole world.

DOUG: It means everything to us that you're here.

CJ SMILES AND HANDS THE PACKAGES TO DOUG AND JULIE.

CJ: I didn't have time to do much shopping. But, I want you to have these.

JULIE BEGINS TO UNWRAP HER PRESENT. JULIE IS SPEECHLESS WHEN SHE SEES THE VASE. IT IS COBALT BLUE, TALL AND DELICATE.

JULIE: Oh, darling, you have exquisite taste.

CJ: The color reminded me of your eyes...

DOUG LOOKS AT CJ, SOMEHOW NOT SURPRISED THAT HIS SON WOULD GIVE JULIE A GIFT SIMILAR TO HIS OWN IN SPIRIT.

CJ: (CONT'D) And it's beautiful. And although it appears fragile, it is made with fire and passion...

JULIE WALKS OVER AND KISSES CJ'S CHEEK. CJ STARES AT JULIE FOR A MOMENT LONGER THAN SEEMS NECESSARY, THEN TURNS TO DOUG.

JULIE: Thank you.

CJ: Now, Doug. Go ahead. Open yours.

DOUG UNWRAPS THE GIFT AND FINDS A FRAMED PICTURE OF CJ, AS A CHILD, WITH ROBERT, AND DOUG.

DOUG: Oh, my...

CJ: It is one of Papa's favorite photos. I was checking on his apartment and found it. I had a copy made for you.

DOUG: I don't know what to say. "Thank you" doesn't seem like enough.

CJ: Do you like it?

DOUG: I can't imagine a gift I would like better.

DOUG AND CJ HUG.

DOUG: (CONT'D) Thank you.

JULIE: Okay. Now we all need to get busy. We have to get to the hospital.

CJ: Yes. I want to wish Papa a Merry Christmas.

JULIE: And, Uncle Bill and Uncle Mickey have something special planned as well.

OUT ON DOUG LOOKING AT THE PICTURE OF CJ, ROBERT, AND DOUG.

ACT IV

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL CHAPEL. SHANE, JANET, JOHN, BRADY, MARCUS, THE BRADYS (SHAWN, CAROLINE, BO, SHAWN-DOUGLAS, AND MAX), AND THE HORTONS (ALICE, MICKEY, MAGGIE, BILL, JACK, JENNIFER, AND ABIGAIL) ARE SEATED IN THE PEWS. DOUG AND JULIE ENTER AND SIT DOWN. IN THE FRONT PEW, ALICE TURNS TO BILL, WHO IS SEATED NEXT TO HER.

ALICE: I think we should begin now, dear.

BILL NODS AND STANDS UP. HE WALKS UP AND STANDS BEHIND THE PODIUM.

BILL: Hello, everyone, and Merry Christmas. I'd like to thank you all for coming here today. Although this time of year is about joy and celebration, we can't help but feel a little sad. It seems that these are the times that we most miss the ones we love who can't be with us to celebrate.

ALICE CLOSES HER EYES AND SIGHS.

BILL: (CONT'D) For me, Christmas just isn't the same this year. Nor will it ever be like it was. (BEAT) I've missed our father terribly since his passing, and that sense of loss is more acute during the holidays.

MAGGIE TAKES MICKEY'S HAND AND SQUEEZES IT.

BILL: (CONT'D) I'm sure you all know what I mean. Tom Horton was a powerful influence in this town, and he touched all of our lives. Christmas just won't be the same without him.

JENNIFER RESTS HER HEAD ON JACK'S SHOULDER. HE PUTS HIS ARM AROUND HER.

BILL: (CONT'D) But, Dad wouldn't want us to spend this season mourning him. (BEAT) No, he would want us to pull together, and keep his spirit alive by loving one another.

BILL PAUSES AND LOOKS AROUND THE ROOM, SMILING.

BILL: (CONT'D) Looking out at all of your faces, I can see that Dad's spirit is very much alive. (BEAT) And now, Mickey has something that he'd like to share with us.

BILL MOTIONS TO MICKEY, WHO STANDS UP AND APPROACHES THE PODIUM. THE BROTHERS HUG, AND THEN BILL RETURNS TO HIS SEAT NEXT TO ALICE. MICKEY TURNS TO THE AUDIENCE.

MICKEY: Merry Christmas, everyone. I'm happy to see so much of the family here today. And our extended family, too. (BEAT) As Bill said, Dad really does live on in all of us.

DOUG REACHES OVER AND TAKES JULIE'S HAND IN HIS.

MICKEY: (CONT'D) And he also lives on in his poetry. (BEAT) So, without further ado, I'd like to read one of Dad's poems, entitled "That Further Hill." (READING ALOUD)
Around the corner of my eye
I see
The space a door makes
Before it shuts

HOLD ON MICKEY.

CUT TO: ROBERT'S HOSPITAL ROOM. CJ ENTERS QUIETLY, IN CASE ROBERT IS SLEEPING. ROBERT OPENS HIS EYES AND HE SMILES WHEN HE SEES CJ.

ROBERT: CJ. I am so happy to see you.

CJ: Joyeux Noel, Papa.

ROBERT: Christmas? Is it Christmas already?

CJ: Oui, mon pere. I'm afraid you were in a coma during Chanukah. But, don't worry. I lit a candle and left a gift for you every day. As soon as you get home, you can open them.

ROBERT: A regular Chanukah Harry, you are.

CJ: It's the least I could do after all the special things you did for me during the holidays. Chanukah in the Holy Land. Christmas in Rome. (BEAT) Never a bad memory...

ROBERT: Maybe just one.

CJ: Not for me.

ROBERT: How about the Christmas you ran away all those many years ago?

CJ: Isn't that strange? I couldn't tell you now what made me do it. And, it must have seemed terrible at the time. All I really remember now is that Julie found me...

ROBERT: God brought you back to me. That's all that matters.

CJ: And, this Christmas, He brought you back to me.

HOLD ON ROBERT AND CJ.

CUT TO: UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL CHAPEL. MICKEY STEPS DOWN FROM THE PODIUM AND WALKS TO THE SEATS. BILL STANDS UP AND SHAKES MICKEY'S HAND. BILL, ONCE AGAIN, TAKES THE PODIUM.

BILL: Thank you, Mickey. I'm sure hearing one of our father's poems brings back a lot of memories for many of us.

WE SEE ALICE, SMILING. MAGGIE TURNS TO ALICE AND PLACES A REASSURING HAND ON HERS.

BILL: (CONT'D) Christmas was always a special time for my father. (TAKES A DEEP BREATH) That's what makes us miss him so much this time of the year.

WE SEE JACK AND JENNIFER. JACK SQUEEZES JENNIFER'S HAND, AND SHE TURNS TO SMILE AT HIM. HOLDING ABIGAIL ON HER LAP, JENNIFER BENDS TO KISS THE TOP OF ABIGAIL'S HEAD.

BILL: (CONT'D) Dad loved everything about Christmas. He loved the caroling, and the presents. He loved watching the children play.

WE SEE SHAWN-DOUGLAS. BO REACHES OVER AND TUSSLES SHAWN-DOUGLAS' HAIR.

BILL: (CONT'D) He loved being with his family during the holidays.

WE SEE DOUG AND JULIE. JULIE SMILES, WITH A HINT OF TEARS IN HER EYES.

BILL: (CONT'D) Most of all, he loved celebrating the true spirit of the season. He always looked forward to the annual Hospital Christmas party, because it gave him a chance to read the Christmas story.

BILL LOOKS OVER AT ALICE, WHO SMILES BACK AT HIM, ENCOURAGINGLY.

BILL: (CONT'D) I know I could never do it as well as Tom Horton, but I'd like to try.

BILL OPENS A LARGE BIBLE AND BEGINS TO READ.

BILL: (CONT'D) (READING) "And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn."

WE SEE JOHN AND BRADY. JOHN LOOKS AT BRADY, REMEMBERING ISABELLA.

BILL: (CONT'D) "And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid."

WE SEE SHAWN AND CAROLINE. SHAWN PUTS HIS ARM AROUND CAROLINE.

BILL: (CONT'D) "And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."

WE SEE MARCUS AND KAYLA. THEY HOLD HANDS AND SMILE AT EACH OTHER. NEXT TO THEM, SHANE AND JANET SIT, LISTENING TO BILL.

BILL: (CONT'D) "And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

BILL CLOSES THE BIBLE. OUT ON THE ASSEMBLED FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

ACT V

BRADY PUB. CAROLINE IS CHECKING ON THE DINNER, WHILE SHAWN AND BO SET THE TABLE. MAX IS ON THE PHONE. JOHN IS SITTING ON THE COUCH WATCHING STEPHANIE AND BRADY BUILD A TOWER OF BLOCKS. SHAWN-DOUGLAS IS OVER BY THE COOKIES, TRYING TO SNEAK ONE WITHOUT CAROLINE SEEING. SHANE SITS IN THE ARMCHAIR, OPENING A GIFT. HE HOLDS UP A BEAUTIFUL FAIR ISLE SWEATER.

SHANE: Caroline, it's lovely! Thank you so much!

CAROLINE: As soon as I saw it I thought of you, Shane. Those colors are perfect for you.

SHANE PUTS THE SWEATER BACK IN THE BOX. AS SHAWN WALKS UP.

SHAWN: Where are Kayla and Marcus? They should be here by now. Everyone else is...

CAROLINE: They'll be along soon, there's something they had to do.

BO FINISHES SETTING THE TABLE AND HEADS INTO THE LIVING ROOM. BO SCOOPS UP SHAWN-DOUGLAS AS HE GOES BY.

BO: How are the cookies, Sailor?

SHAWN AND BO LAUGH AT THE STRICKEN LOOK ON SHAWN-DOUGLAS' FACE WHEN HE REALIZES HE'S BEEN "CAUGHT."

SHAWN: (WHISPERING) You've got to wipe the crumbs off your chin, lad.

MAX HANGS UP THE PHONE AND STARTS FOR HIS ROOM. SHAWN NOTICES.

SHAWN: (CONT'D) And where is it you're off to, young Max?

MAX: (COCKY) I'm just going to go to my room until it's time for supper, okay?

SHAWN: No, it's not okay. This is a family holiday and you're meant to spend it with the family. Come over here and join us.

MAX POUTS A BIT AND SITS DOWN ON THE COUCH NEXT TO JOHN. SHAWN-DOUGLAS RUNS OVER AND PERCHES ON THE ARM OF THE COUCH NEXT TO MAX.

SHAWN-D: Hey, Max! I bought over my new Power Rangers cartridge! Wanna play?

MAX: Awww, that's baby stuff.

SHAWN: Max Brady! You'll stop that rudeness right now. Apologize to your nephew and go and play with him.

MAX: All right. C'mon Shawn-D, let's go.

MAX GRUDGINGLY GOES OFF WITH SHAWN-DOUGLAS TOWARDS HIS BEDROOM. JOHN, SHANE AND BO START LAUGHING AS SOON AS THE BOYS ARE OUT OF EARSHOT.

JOHN: Can you say "raging hormones" boys and girls?

SHANE: He's the right age for it, all right.

BO: The other day I caught him checking for beard in the mirror!

THE THREE GO INTO GALES OF LAUGHTER AGAIN. SHAWN SMIRKS.

SHAWN: I hate to tell you this lads, but soon enough your own sons will be going through it. Now, isn't that something to look forward to?

THE THREE STOP LAUGHING ABRUPTLY AND STARE AT EACH OTHER. HOLD ON SHAWN LAUGHING UPROARIOUSLY.

CUT TO: THE DOCKS. "SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN" PLAYS IN THE BACKGROUND. MARCUS AND KAYLA, DRESSED AS "PATCHY CLAUS" AND HIS TRUSTY ELF COME DOWN THE STEPS, A LARGE CROWD OF CHILDREN TRAILING AFTER THEM. MARCUS SITS DOWN AND ALL THE KIDS SIT OR STAND AROUND HIM, WIGGLING ANXIOUSLY. ONE BY ONE MARCUS CALLS EACH CHILD FORWARD TO RECEIVE THEIR GIFT. KAYLA GOES INTO HER LARGE SACK AGAIN AND AGAIN, PULLING OUT A DOLL FOR THIS LITTLE GIRL, A FOOTBALL FOR THAT LITTLE BOY, A MICROSCOPE FOR AN OLDER GIRL, A LARGE DRAWING PAD AND PAINTS FOR AN OLDER BOY, AND SO ON. OCCASIONALLY MARCUS SAYS SOMETHING TO A CHILD THAT MAKES THEM LAUGH OR BLUSH OR LOOK SHEEPISH. BUT ALL RECEIVE A GIFT AND GIVE HUGS IN RETURN. MARCUS AND KAYLA EXCHANGE A MEANINGFUL LOOK AND CONTINUE TO GIVE OUT GIFTS. HOLD ON THE HAPPY CROWD.

CUT TO: HORTON LIVING ROOM. EVERYONE RETURNS FROM THE CHAPEL. JO, CARRYING ABIGAIL, WALKS INTO THE LIVING ROOM, WITH MICKEY AND MAGGIE.

MAGGIE: Will Vern be joining us later, Jo?

JO: Actually, no. He's in California, skiing with his kids.

MICKEY: Vern, skiing? I hadn't exactly pictured him as the slalom type.

JO: This will be his first try on those California slopes... I hope he doesn't come back on crutches.

MAGGIE: At least it sounds like he'll have a nice visit with his family.

JO: Yes, and I'll have some time with mine.

JO GIVES ABIGAIL A KISS ON THE CHEEK. BILL WALKS INTO THE LIVING ROOM, CARRYING A BOWL FULL OF EGG NOG. HE PLACES IT ON A TABLE.

BILL: Who wants some egg nog?

JACK AND JULIE APPROACH BILL.

JULIE: Some egg nog to start off the night sounds absolutely perfect.

JACK: I'm game, as long as there's some nog with the egg. (BEAT) Tell me, Bill, is this the egg nog from Petrini's market?

BILL: We wouldn't dare use any of that store bought stuff. No, this is straight from the Horton's secret recipe book.

JACK TAKES A SIP, AND NODS HIS HEAD.

JACK: Most definitely a suitable replacement.

JACK RAISES HIS GLASS TO BILL AND JULIE, AND GOES TO JOIN JENNIFER.

BILL: Julie, have you heard from David or Scotty?

JULIE: Doug and I got a call from David last night. He and Scotty are spending Christmas surfing in New Zealand.

BILL: Thank goodness it's summer down there!

JULIE: That's what I thought. But, I don't think it matters what the weather is for those two, as long as the waves are "gnarly."

OUT ON JULIE AND BILL, LAUGHING.

ACT VI

HORTON LIVING ROOM/FOYER. THE DOORBELL HAS JUST RUNG, AND BILL IS ANSWERING THE DOOR. IT IS RICHARD.

BILL: Merry Christmas! Come in, Mr.... Hunt, right?

RICHARD: Yes, thank you. Merry Christmas to you, too, Dr. Horton.

BILL: Bill, please.

RICHARD: And please, call me Richard.

JULIE, SEEING RICHARD, MAKES HER WAY OVER TO THE ENTRY.

JULIE: Richard, darling! Welcome! Merry Christmas!

JULIE GIVES RICHARD A HUG.

RICHARD: Thank you, Julie.

JULIE AND RICHARD SEPARATE. DOUG, LOOKING JUST A LITTLE ENVIOUS, PUTS HIS ARM AROUND JULIE AND PULLS HER CLOSE.

RICHARD: (CONT'D) And you, too, Doug. And Dr.... Bill. I'm grateful to all of the Hortons for giving me a place to go for Christmas.

JULIE: Richard, you always have a place to go, Christmas or not.

RICHARD COCKS AND EYEBROW AND LOOKS CAUTIOUSLY AT DOUG. DOUG LOOKS AT RICHARD AND SMILES. RICHARD SMILES.

RICHARD: Thank you, Julie. Both of you.

BILL: Why don't you let me take your coat? Come inside, make yourself at home.

RICHARD TAKES OFF HIS COAT AND HANDS IT TO BILL.

JULIE: Come on, Richard, there's someone I want you to meet.

JULIE LEADS RICHARD OVER TO THE SOFA, WHERE CJ IS TALKING TO MICKEY.

JULIE: Excuse me, Uncle Mickey, but I wanted to introduce Richard to CJ. (BEAT) Richard, this is Robert's son, CJ LeClere.

CJ STANDS.

JULIE: (CONT'D) CJ, this is my right-hand man at Midsummer, Richard Hunt.

RICHARD: (EXTENDING HIS HAND) CJ, it's a pleasure to meet you. Julie's told me quite a bit about you.

CJ: (SHAKING RICHARD'S HAND) Nice to meet you. (BEAT) I'd like to say Julie's told me about you, but the timing...

RICHARD: I understand. How is your father doing?

CJ: (HAPPILY) He's much better, thank you. It's been a truly miraculous Christmas.

RICHARD: As it should be. (BEAT, AS RICHARD SPIES JACK, JENNIFER, AND ABIGAIL) If you'll excuse me, I'm going to go say hello to the Deveraux.

RICHARD WALKS OVER TO WHERE JACK, JENNIFER, AND ABIGAIL ARE ADMIRING THE CHRISTMAS TREE. JENNIFER IS HOLDING ABIGAIL.

RICHARD: Merry Christmas, Deveraux...

JACK: Merry Christmas, Richard.

JENNIFER: Merry Christmas, Richard. (TO ABIGAIL) Abby, can you say "hi" to Richard?

RICHARD: (SOFTLY) Hello, Abigail.

ABIGAIL: Hi, Richer.

JACK: If he continues to do such good work at Midsummer, there's no doubt he will be.

RICHARD: Be what?

JACK: Richer.

JENNIFER: Jack!

JACK: What? I'm serious. Richard has been doing an excellent job...

JENNIFER: (INTERRUPTING) I know that Richard's been invaluable to Julie and to Midsummer. (BEAT) But this is Christmas. Let's leave work at the office for today.

JACK: (GRUDGINGLY) Yes, dear...

RICHARD: Not that the praise is unappreciated, but Jennifer's right. This is a time for family.

JENNIFER: And friends.

RICHARD: Yes. And friends.

HOLD ON RICHARD.

CUT TO: BRADY LIVING ROOM. CAROLINE IS AT THE BAR, TALKING ON THE PHONE, ONE-WAY.

CAROLINE: All right, we'll talk to you soon. (BEAT) I love you, Roman. Merry Christmas. (BEAT) Good-bye.

CAROLINE HANGS UP THE PHONE AND TURNS TO SHAWN, JOHN, BO, SHANE, AND BRADY.

CAROLINE: Roman, Marlena, and the twins send their love, and wish everyone a Merry Christmas!

BO: So, is that big brother of mine staying out of trouble?

JOHN: Are you kiddin'? He's got enough on his hands with two teenagers. He doesn't have time for any trouble of his own!

CAROLINE: Oh, stop it, you two. All four of them are just fine. Marlena's practice has been successful, and things are in order at Roman's precinct. (BEAT) And, Sammi and Eric are both doing really well in school.

SHANE: Still, teenagers can be a chore. I know that, first-hand.

SHAWN: Say, where is Eve, anyways?

SHANE: She's with Ian at Euterpe. They're working on some new musical arrangements.

CAROLINE: Does that mean she'll be singing at the club again?

SHANE: I hope so. She does love to sing. I think it helps her forget about... her problems. (SIGHS) They grow up so fast...

SHAWN: You got that right. It seems like, every time you turn around, the kids are agin' by four or five years!

BO AND JOHN NOD IN AGREEMENT. THE FRONT DOOR OPENS, AND MARCUS AND KAYLA ENTER, LAUGHING.

KAYLA: Hi, everybody!

BO: Hey, Sis!

JOHN: Hey, Marcus!

BRADY, STILL IN JOHN'S LAP, TURNS TO LOOK AT MARCUS AND KAYLA.

KAYLA: Hello there, Brady!

BRADY: (REACHING TOWARD KAYLA) Auntie Kayla!

KAYLA WALKS OVER AND PICKS UP BRADY.

KAYLA: My, you're getting to be such a big boy! Are you having a fun Christmas?

BRADY: Uh-huh.

MARCUS: Have you been a good boy this year, Brady? Is Santa going to bring you lots of presents?

BRADY: Good boy!

JOHN: (GRINNING) That's my slugger.

SHAWN: Marcus, Kayla... would you two like some cider?

KAYLA: Sure, Pop.

MARCUS: Yes, please.

SHAWN: (HEADING FOR THE KITCHEN) Be back in a minute. Take your coats off, and stay awhile.

KAYLA HANDS BRADY BACK TO JOHN. SHE AND MARCUS GO TO THE COAT CLOSET AND TAKE OFF THEIR COATS.

MARCUS: (HANGING UP HIS COAT) I dunno, Kay. First Thanksgiving, now this... Maybe your father really is warming up to the idea of you and me together.

MARCUS TAKES KAYLA'S COAT AND GOES TO HANG IT UP. KAYLA LOOKS TOWARD THE KITCHEN AND TWISTS THE ENGAGEMENT RING ON HER FINGER.

KAYLA: (SOTTO VOCE) I hope so, Marcus. I hope so.

HOLD ON KAYLA.

CUT TO: EUTERPE. IAN AND EVE ARE SITTING AT THE PIANO. AS IAN PLAYS, EVE FINISHES SINGING "AULD LANG SYNE". IAN APPLAUDS HER WHEN SHE FINISHES.

IAN: That was beautiful, Eve.

EVE: Thank you.

IAN: We could all learn something from that song. (BEAT) Maybe the dawning of a new year would be a good time for you to let go of some of you anger and get back together with Nick.

EVE: (CALMLY) That time will never come, Ian. (BEAT) Nick Corelli ruined my life when he left, and I can't forgive him for that.

IAN: You can't forgive him, or you won't?

EVE: (IGNORING IAN'S QUESTION) Since when are you Nick's personal PR firm, anyway?

IAN: He's a really great guy, Eve. He's a good conversationalist and he's got great taste in movies. And in singers...

EVE GIVES IAN A LITTLE SMIRK.

IAN: (CONT'D) I enjoy his company, Eve. Just like I enjoy your company... most of the time.

EVE: (GIVING HIM A SMALL SHOVE) Very funny.

IAN REACHES BESIDE THE PIANO, AND WITHDRAWS A SMALL GIFT BAG.

IAN: Merry Christmas, Eve.

IAN HANDS HER THE BAG. EVE OPENS THE BAG, AND PULLS OUT A CD; IT'S FRANK SINATRA'S "DUETS II". EVE IS OBVIOUSLY CONFUSED.

IAN: (CONT'D) You don't like Ol' Blue Eyes?

EVE: I like Sinatra, it's just... I sense a hidden meaning here.

IAN: Let's just say that people don't have to be in the same room to make beautiful music together.

EVE GLARES AT IAN.

IAN: (CONT'D) Besides... they were sold out of the new Tony Bennett.

EVE'S FROWN TURNS TO A SMALL SMILE.

IAN: Thank you Eve, for not letting me spend Christmas alone. (BEAT) Now, enough mushy stuff, it's time to dive head first back into the holiday spirit.

EVE: Okay... (THUMBING THROUGH THE SHEET MUSIC, THEN PULLING OUT HER CHOICE) Try this one.

IAN STARTS TO PLAY "HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS". OUT ON EVE AS SHE STARTS TO SING ALONG.

ACT VII

HORTON LIVING ROOM. JENNIFER SITS ON THE COUCH WITH ABIGAIL AND BILL, WHO IS PLAYING WITH HIS GRANDDAUGHTER. MICKEY TALKS WITH DOUG, WHILE RICHARD, JACK AND JULIE CONVERSE AS JULIE HANGS TINSEL ON THE TREE WHICH DOMINATES THE ROOM. MAGGIE ENTERS WITH A TRAY OF PLATES AND NAPKINS, AND CJ FOLLOWS WITH A TRAY OF COOKIES. AS THE VARIOUS PEOPLE GET TREATS, GO TO ALICE, COMING DOWN THE STAIRS WITH NORM FOLLOWING BEHIND. ALICE CARRIES A LARGE BOX, AND HER ENTRANCE INTO THE LIVING ROOM CAUSES THE CONVERSATIONS TO CEASE AS MICKEY GOES TO HELP HER WITH THE BOX, SETTING IT ON THE TABLE BY THE TREE.

ALICE: It's that time, again, everyone.... When we decorate the tree with the ornaments for each of our loved ones, near and far. Mickey, darling, would you and Maggie start?

MICKEY: Of course, Mom. Maggie?

MAGGIE: (LOOKING INTO THE BOX) Here's yours, love, and Sarah's, and here's Melissa's, and mine.

MAGGIE AND MICKEY HANG THEIR TWO ORNAMENTS CLOSE TOGETHER, AND SHARE A KISS. THEY THEN PUT SARAH'S AND MELISSA'S NEARBY. ALICE HANDS MICKEY TWO OTHERS, SANDY'S AND TOMMY'S, WHICH MICKEY HANGS NEAR THE TOP.

ALICE: Bill?

BILL GETS UP SLOWLY, AND PICKS OUT MIKE'S ORNAMENT, ROBIN'S AND JEREMY'S. HE HANGS THEM UP TOGETHER. THEN HE RETURNS TO THE BOX AND PICKS OUT HIS AND LAURA'S. HIS EYES FILL WITH TEARS, AND HE LOOKS OVER AT JENNIFER GESTURING TO HER. SHE HANDS ABIGAIL TO JACK AND JOINS HER FATHER.

BILL: I think... I think Laura would want you to help with this.

JENNIFER: (NEAR TEARS) Somehow, Dad, she's with us. I know she is.

JENNIFER AND BILL HANG LAURA'S ORNAMENT, THEN BILL HANGS HIS OWN CLOSE BY. JENNIFER THEN HUGS BILL, WHO SITS DOWN. MICKEY, STANDING BEHIND WHERE BILL IS SITTING, PUTS A REASSURING HAND ON HIS BROTHER'S SHOULDER. JACK JOINS JENNIFER AT THE BOX WITH ABIGAIL AND JENNIFER HANDS HIM HIS ORNAMENT. THEY EACH HANG THEIR ORNAMENTS, AND WITH ABIGAIL'S ENTHUSIASTIC HELP, HANG HERS.

JENNIFER: (CONT'D) Maybe next year, there'll be another ornament for us to hang!

JACK: (GIVES HER A PANICKED LOOK) You're not??

JENNIFER: (SMILING TEASINGLY AT JACK) I said "maybe," Jack!

EVERYONE LAUGHS, AS JULIE AND DOUG GO TO THE BOX, AND PICK UP THE ORNAMENTS FOR DAVID AND SCOTTY, HANGING THEM ON THE TREE. THEY RETURN TO THE BOX AND PICK UP ADDIE'S ORNAMENT, WHICH JULIE HANGS. THEN THEY GET BO AND SHAWN-DOUGLAS', HANGING THEM NEAR ADDIE'S. DOUG THEN GETS HOPE'S ORNAMENT, AND GENTLY KISSES IT, PUTTING IT BY BO AND SHAWN-D'S. JULIE TAKES HIS HAND AND GIVES IT A SQUEEZE, THEN HANDS HIM HIS ORNAMENT. THE TWO OF THEM HANG THEIR ORNAMENTS VERY CLOSE TOGETHER, AND THEN DOUG PUTS HIS ARM AROUND JULIE AND THEY WALK FROM THE TREE.

ALICE: My turn, now, it appears.

ALICE TAKES MARIE'S AND JESSICA'S ORNAMENTS AND HANGS THEM, AND THEN GETS OUT HER OWN ORNAMENT AND TOM'S. SHE HANGS HERS AT THE TOP, AND HOLDS TOM'S IN HER HAND FOR A MOMENT.

ALICE: (CONT'D) Tom, darling, we miss you... It's been difficult, this holiday, without you. I love you... everyone here does. And I'm sure you're here in spirit, watching over us... (HER VOICE BREAKS AS SHE HANGS TOM'S ORNAMENT RIGHT NEXT TO HERS AT THE TOP)

MICKEY WALKS TO ALICE AND PUTS HIS ARMS AROUND HER.

MICKEY: I know Dad's with us. I can feel him. I think everyone here can.

MICKEY HUGS HIS MOTHER, AS NORM PUSHES HIS NOSE INTO ALICE'S HIP. THE HUG ENDS, AND ALICE TAKES A SEAT IN TOM'S CHAIR, NORM SITTING BESIDE HER.

DOUG: If I'm not mistaken, it's time for a carol!

DOUG LEADS INTO "O HOLY NIGHT," AND THE REST OF THE GROUP JOINS IN. WE SEE THE TREE, THEN TOM'S ORNAMENT. PAST THAT, OUT THE WINDOW, WE SEE IT IS BEGINNING TO SNOW. SUDDENLY, NORM PICKS UP HIS HEAD ALERTLY AND WALKS TO THE WINDOW. LOOKING PAST, WE SEE WHAT NORM HAS SEEN: A SHADOWY FIGURE IN A BERET STANDING A SMALL DISTANCE AWAY FROM THE WINDOW, LOOKING IN. NOTICING THAT NORM IS DISTRACTED, ALICE STANDS AND GOES TO THE WINDOW. SHE SEES THE FIGURE, MOSTLY OBSCURED BY SNOW, AND SMILES. THEN SHE PATS NORM ON THE HEAD, AND TURNS TO JOIN THE SINGING. OUT ON THE HORTON CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION. FADE TO BLACK.

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