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An ALT.DAYS Production,
A Division of Peel Productions, Inc.
Air Date: April 2, 1997
Time: Several Days After #161,
Afternoon to Evening
Copyright 1997
EUTERPE/PRIVATE DINING ROOM. JULIE, CJ, AND ELI ARE GATHERED TOGETHER. THEY ARE STANDING IN THE ROOM TALKING AND DRINKING COFFEE. DOUG ENTERS THE ROOM.
DOUG: I just called Mickey's office. His secretary said that he left twenty minutes ago so he should be here any moment.
CJ: Thank you, Doug. I can't help but feel a little anxious. This whole thing seems so... wrong.
ELI: I know what you mean. Robert was the kind of man who gave and gave his entire life. It seems so strange that we must gather for this after he's gone.
DOUG: I feel like I should be the one giving something to Robert for all that he's meant to me.
JULIE: I think all of us already has. Everybody here meant so much to Robert during his life. Think of it as his way of thanking you.
THE DOOR OPENS AND MICKEY ENTERS. DOUG GOES TO GREET HIM.
DOUG: Thank you for being here, Mickey.
MICKEY: I'm honored to help out.
JULIE: Can I get you some coffee, Uncle Mickey?
MICKEY: That would be nice. (SETS HIS BRIEFCASE ON A TABLE) I brought all the paperwork with me.
WHILE JULIE GETS MICKEY HIS COFFEE, EVERYBODY ELSE STARTS TAKING THEIR SEATS.
MICKEY: (CONT'D) Shall we get underway with the reading of the will?
DOUG: I think we're all ready.
MICKEY OPENS HIS BRIEFCASE AND TAKES OUT A LARGE STACK OF PAPERS. HOLD ON THE PAPERS.
CUT TO: ALAMAIN MANSION/FOYER. THE DOORBELL RINGS. LAWRENCE'S MAID, NANCY, GOES TO ANSWER IT. WHEN SHE OPENS THE DOOR, MARCHAND BARGES IN.
NANCY: Mr. Marchand, Mr. Alamain isn't taking visitors right now.
MARCHAND: He'll see me.
MARCHAND RUSHES PAST NANCY AND INTO THE LIVING ROOM.
GO TO: LIVING ROOM. LAWRENCE IS SITTING ON THE SOFA READING THE SPECTATOR.
NANCY: (V.O.) Mr. Marchand!
LAWRENCE LOOKS UP FROM HIS NEWSPAPER.
LAWRENCE: I don't remember asking you to come here today.
MARCHAND: Well, consider this a social call.
MARCHAND PULLS A SMALL WRAPPED PACKAGE OUT OF HIS OVERCOAT POCKET AND HANDS IT TO LAWRENCE.
MARCHAND: Happy birthday.
A SUSPICIOUS LAWRENCE ACCEPTS THE PRESENT. WHEN HE OPENS IT, HE FINDS A DOG WHISTLE. A SCOWL ENVELOPS HIS FACE.
LAWRENCE: Is this supposed to be amusing?
MARCHAND: I just wanted something to symbolize our working relationship... that I always come when you call.
HOLD ON LAWRENCE'S SNEER.
CUT TO: SALEM P.D. SQUAD ROOM. BO IS SITTING AT HIS DESK TALKING ON THE PHONE. BOB WALKS OVER WITH A STACK OF PAPERWORK AND WAITS WHEN HE SEES BO ROLL HIS EYES.
BO: (ONE-WAY) Yes... Thank you for letting us know... Yes, I certainly will... Thank you. Goodbye.
BO HANGS UP THE PHONE.
BOB: Let me guess. Barking dogs? Neighbor kids t.p.-ing the house? Alien visitors?
BO: Did you know that Jim Morrison is living over on Maple Avenue? That really isn't him in that grave in Paris, you know. It was all a set-up. (SIGHS) Why do all the weirdos call when I'm on desk duty?
BOB MOTIONS TO THE STACK OF PAPERWORK.
BOB: That's why I brought you a present. To make you feel better.
BO: Oh boy, thanks. It's working already.
BOB: Hey, what are you doing later? Wanna go get a beer or something?
BO: Thanks, but I think I have plans.
BOB: Hot date?
BO: What makes you think I'm talking about a date?
BOB: Because I've noticed you getting chummy with a certain gorgeous singer lately.
BO: Really?
BOB: Yes. And if I may poke my nose in where it doesn't belong, I think it's great. Lynn's a class act. What she sees in you, however...
BO POINTS BEHIND BOB.
BO: I think Sanfilippo needs you and your nose back at the front desk.
BOB: Okay, I can take a hint. But you better call her if you're going to. Women hate last minute invitations.
BOB DEPARTS AND BO SHAKES HIS HEAD. HE LOOKS AT THE PHONE, THEN AT BOB'S DEPARTING BACK, THEN AT THE PHONE AGAIN. GRINNING, HE PICKS UP THE PHONE AND DIALS. ONE-WAY.
BO: Hi, Lynn? It's Bo.
HOLD ON BO'S CONVERSATION.
SALEM P.D. SQUAD ROOM. BO AND LYNN ARE ON THE PHONE. TWO-WAY. IN PROGRESS.
BO: So, how are things going?
LYNN: Pretty well, thanks. In fact, I think things are looking up.
BO: Oh, yeah? What happened?
LYNN: You called.
BO: Oh, well... I haven't told you why I'm calling yet.
LYNN: (FROWNING) I'm not sure I like the sound of that. Why are you calling? I hope you don't have bad news of some sort...
BO: No, no, nothing like that.
LYNN: Oh, good. You had me worried, there.
BO: Sorry. I didn't mean to give you a scare.
LYNN: So, what did you mean?
BO: What?
LYNN: Why did you call? Or did you have a reason?
BO: Do I need one?
LYNN: Nah... But if you have one, I'm curious to know what it is.
BO: Well, in this case, I do have one.
LYNN: Okay, then, stop teasing me. Out with it!
BO: Yes, ma'am! (BEAT) I was wondering if you'd like to join me for a bike ride after your last set tonight. I could come by Nick's and pick you up...
LYNN: Um... Actually, you can't.
BO: (FROWNING) Why not?
LYNN: Because I'm not working tonight. You'd have to pick me up at home.
BO: (HIS FROWN TURNING TO A SMILE) I think I could handle that.
LYNN: Good. Could you handle picking me up early enough for dinner?
BO: I think I can manage it. What kind of dinner are you in the mood for?
LYNN: I don't know. Surprise me.
BO: Okay. (BEAT) Do you want to do something after dinner?
LYNN: I don't know. Surprise me.
BO: Oh... kay.
BO PAUSES AND THINKS FOR A MOMENT.
LYNN: Bo? Are you there?
BO: Yeah, I'm here. I was just thinking of something for tonight.
LYNN: Oh, good. So what would the appropriate attire be for this... thing?
BO: You want to know what to wear?
LYNN: I was just looking for a general idea.
BO: Oh.
LYNN: Well...?
BO: (GRINNING) I don't know. Surprise me.
LYNN: All right. I will.
BO: Pick you up at seven-thirty?
LYNN: Sounds good. See you then.
BO: 'Bye.
BO HANGS UP THE PHONE AND SMILES. HOLD ON BO.
CUT TO: EUTERPE/PRIVATE DINING ROOM. DOUG, JULIE, ELI, AND CJ ARE SEATED FACING MICKEY. MICKEY PICKS UP AN ENVELOPE AND BEGINS OPENING IT.
MICKEY: Robert asked that this note be read first before the will. (BEAT) (READING) "My dear family and friends. I'm sorry to call you together for an occasion such as this. I want you all to remember how much I love you. No earthly separation can change that. Love is forever."
CJ BITES HIS LIP.
MICKEY: (CONT'D) "Please try not to be sad. Well, maybe just a little sad would be all right. You know how we French like tears as much as we do laughter."
EVERYONE CHUCKLES.
MICKEY: (CONT'D) "If I could ask only one thing of all of you, it would be this: Love. Love life, love each other, love your fellow man. Each day is a gift. Rejoice in it, enjoy it, experience it, revel in it. I know I did. All my love, Robert."
EVERYONE IS SILENT FOR A MOMENT THINKING ABOUT ROBERT'S WORDS. ELI WIPES A TEAR FROM HIS EYE. MICKEY CLEARS HIS THROAT TRYING TO KEEP HIS PROFESSIONAL DEMEANOR.
DOUG: Amen, mon vieux, amen.
MICKEY PICKS UP A PACKET OF LEGAL-SIZE PAPERS.
MICKEY: And now the will. (OPENS THE PACKET AND BEGINS READING) "I, Robert LeClere, being of sound mind and body do hereby bequest... To my best friend and singing partner, Doug Williams, I leave my extensive collection of show business and song memorabilia. Now you can finally get your hands on those choreography notes of Fred Astaire's. Enjoy, my friend."
DOUG LAUGHS.
MICKEY: (CONT'D) "To Julie Williams, truly the most beautiful girl in the world, I leave a very special necklace."
MICKEY GOES INTO THE POCKET OF HIS BRIEFCASE AND TAKES OUT A BLACK VELVET BOX AND HANDS IT TO JULIE. SHE OPENS IT AND TAKES OUT A LONG GOLD CHAIN WITH A JEWELED JESTER CHARM HANGING FROM IT.
JULIE: Oh my.
MICKEY: "I remember your fondness for clowns, ma belle. This necklace was given to me by a very special lady a long time ago. I can't think of anyone I would rather pass it on to. Wear it with joy."
JULIE SLIPS THE CHAIN OVER HER HEAD AND PICKS UP THE JESTER TO GET A CLOSER LOOK AT IT. SHE SMILES THROUGH HER TEARS.
JULIE: I will, darling. I will.
HOLD ON JULIE'S SMILE.
CUT TO: ALAMAIN MANSION/LIVING ROOM. LAWRENCE AND MARCHAND. IN PROGRESS.
LAWRENCE: A dog whistle is symbolic of our working relationship?
MARCHAND: It's silver plated.
LAWRENCE: Meaning it tarnishes quickly?
MARCHAND: No, I... uh... Hmm, I didn't think about that.
LAWRENCE: And here I believed this to be such a thoughtful gift. However, I believe you have forgotten one other thing, counselor. (BLOWS THE WHISTLE) Dog whistles aren't audible to human ears.
MARCHAND: Meaning?
LAWRENCE: Metaphorically speaking, you called yourself a dog.
MARCHAND SNEERS AT LAWRENCE.
LAWRENCE: (CONT'D) Is there any constructive reason why you are here?
MARCHAND OPENS HIS BRIEFCASE, REMOVES A STACK OF PAPERS, AND OPENS IT TO THE SIXTH PAGE.
MARCHAND: Here. Sign this.
LAWRENCE TURNS THE PAPERS BACK TO THE BEGINNING AND READS THEM BEFORE SIGNING.
LAWRENCE: Is that all?
MARCHAND: Yes, but I don't know what that matters to you. It's not like you have a full social calendar.
LAWRENCE: I do happen to have plans for the day.
MARCHAND: Oh really? What are they?
LAWRENCE DOES NOT ANSWER MARCHAND. INSTEAD, HE WALKS INTO THE FOYER. MARCHAND FOLLOWS HIM.
GO TO: FOYER. LAWRENCE OPENS THE FRONT DOOR.
MARCHAND: What are you up to, Lawrence?
LAWRENCE: Nothing that need fuel your rampant paranoia.
HE CLOSES THE DOOR IN MARCHAND'S FACE.
GO TO: EXTERIOR.
MARCHAND: Me and my psychiatrist resent that.
OUT ON MARCHAND'S DISGUST.
JACK AND JENNIFER'S KITCHEN. JO IS ON ONE SIDE OF THE COUNTER PREPARING A LARGE PAN OF GREEN TUNA NOODLE CASSEROLE, WHILE ROSIE IS ON THE OTHER SIDE MAKING A LASAGNA. JENNIFER IS AT THE TABLE WORKING ON THE VEGETABLE AND CHEESE TRAYS.
ROSIE: It's too bad that they aren't staying.
JO: Yeah, but the boys do need to get back into their normal routine and Justin has a lot of work to catch up on.
JENNIFER: It's not going to make us miss them any less, though.
JO: No, it's not... I've gotten a bit spoiled having all three of my kids around. (BEAT) It's going to be so quiet without those little boys around.
JO PUTS THE FINISHING TOUCHES ON THE CASSEROLE AND PUTS IT IN THE OVEN.
JENNIFER: Think we'll have enough food?
ROSIE: Between the tuna, the lasagna, the Greek dishes, the wide world of cheese over there... and twelve different desserts, I certainly hope so.
JO: We just have to keep the boys away from the sweets until after dinner. (BEAT) Their mama always wanted them first.
JENNIFER: Don't forget about Abby. My little chocaholic might put her cousins to shame.
ROSIE FINISHES HER PREP WORK AND CARRIES THE LASAGNA OVER TO THE OVEN. SHE OPENS THE DOOR, MOVES JO'S CASSEROLE OVER SLIGHTLY, AND PUTS IN THE LASAGNA.
JO: Joey might be disappointed that we didn't make the chicken and sardine burgers.
JENNIFER: Don't forget Alexander's turkey kabobs.
ROSIE: Trying to make everybody's favorites would have been too much, ladies. (BEAT) I'm sure that the boys will enjoy everything... besides, this way they can look forward to grilled peanut butter sandwiches on their next visit.
HOLD ON THE WOMEN AS THEY LAUGH AT THE KIDS' ODD FOOD CHOICES.
CUT TO: SALEM INN/HALLWAY. LAWRENCE IS STANDING AT THE DOOR TO VIVIAN'S SUITE. IVAN IS BLOCKING HIS ENTRANCE.
LAWRENCE: I don't want any trouble, Ivan.
IVAN: Then perhaps you should leave, Mr. Alamain.
LAWRENCE: You can't keep me from seeing my son.
IVAN: No, I can't. But I also know that you should be checking with Madame before visiting. And since she didn't mention anything to me...
NICHOLAS COMES TO THE DOOR.
NICHOLAS: Who is it, Ivan? (BEAT) Oh. Hi, Lawrence.
LAWRENCE: Hello, Nikki. I've come to see if you'll celebrate my birthday with me. We could go to dinner.
IVAN: That is out of the question.
LAWRENCE: Go ahead and push me, Ivan.
IVAN: Is that a threat?
LAWRENCE: Take it any way you want. We agreed to be civilized about this.
IVAN: I don't recall an agreement of any kind between us.
LAWRENCE: You know very well that if I sued for custody, I would win.
IVAN: Over my dead body.
LAWRENCE: I wish.
NICHOLAS LOOKS FROM IVAN TO LAWRENCE. THEY SEEM TO HAVE FORGOTTEN THAT HE IS THERE AND ARE GLARING AT EACH OTHER.
NICHOLAS: Stop it! Just stop, okay? Don't argue, please? It makes me feel sick.
LAWRENCE: I'm sorry, Nikki. I didn't mean to upset you.
IVAN: Forgive me, Master Nicholas.
NICHOLAS: I'll go to dinner. Just please stop looking at each other like that.
IVAN: You don't have to do anything you don't want to do. You know that.
NICHOLAS: I know. And I want to. It's Lawrence's birthday. I don't think Aunt Viv will mind this once. (TO LAWRENCE) But we have to go somewhere close.
LAWRENCE: Anywhere you want.
IVAN: There are two conditions.
LAWRENCE RAISES HIS EYEBROW BUT DOES NOT SAY ANYTHING.
IVAN: (CONT'D) I will accompany Master Nicholas and Madame will meet us at the restaurant.
LAWRENCE: A real family celebration. How lovely.
HOLD ON IVAN LETTING LAWRENCE INTO THE SUITE.
CUT TO: EUTERPE/PRIVATE DINING ROOM. MICKEY, DOUG, JULIE, ELI, AND CJ. IN PROGRESS.
MICKEY: "To my only brother, Eli, I leave my land in Israel."
MICKEY HANDS ELI A DEED AND SURVEY PAPERS.
MICKEY: (CONT'D) "I bought this property some years ago, intending to build a retirement home close to you. But I never did get around to retiring."
EVERYONE CHUCKLES.
MICKEY: "It is mostly untouched and a lovely spot. Maybe you can build a nice home, brother. To my niece, Robin, her husband, Michael Horton, and their son, Jeremy, I leave the sum of $100,000 to be held in trust for Jeremy's college education."
EVERYONE GASPS.
JULIE: How generous!
ELI: It's too much! That money should go to CJ.
CJ: Uncle, I don't want Papa's money. If he wanted Robin and Mike to have it for Jeremy then that's where it will go.
MICKEY HANDS ELI ANOTHER PACKET OF PAPERS.
MICKEY: It's not something he talked about, but Robert was a very wealthy man. This bequest is rather small, actually. Eli, here is all the pertinent information on the trust and how it will be handled. If Robin or Mike have any questions, they can call me any time.
ELI: (STUNNED) I'm sure they will.
THE ROOM QUIETS SLIGHTLY AS EVERYONE REALIZES WHAT MICKEY HAS JUST SAID AND THAT CJ IS THE NEXT TO BE MENTIONED. MICKEY LOOKS AT CJ OVER HIS GLASSES BRIEFLY BEFORE CONTINUING TO READ.
MICKEY: "And to my beloved son, Charles Jules..."
HOLD ON EVERYONE'S ANTICIPATION.
COMMUNITY CENTER. THE SALEM PUBLIC SCHOOLS SPRING CARNIVAL IS IN FULL SWING. BO PAYS FOR A BAG OF ROASTED PEANUTS AND GIVES THEM TO LYNN.
LYNN: I love this! We would have school carnivals when I was a kid, but nothing like this.
BO: Yeah, with the school board's budget cuts, they're getting creative when it comes to fundraising.
LYNN: You should've brought your son along.
BO: He came earlier today with some buddies of his. Besides, I didn't want to make you feel like a babysitter.
LYNN: Oh, it would've been fine with me. I'd love to meet him someday.
BO: Sure, someday maybe. (BEAT) Check out some of those booths.
LYNN: Well, they've gone all out with the food. Did you see the fajita stand?
BO: I like how they put it right between the pizza and hot dog stands... that way we can hit all of them in a row. (BEAT) Just don't tell Shawn-D about this or I'll never hear the end of it.
LYNN: Just because your ten year old will criticize you on your poor eating habits...
BO: Yep.
LYNN: You can count on me. Besides, I'll be too stuffed myself. (BEAT) Maybe we should try our luck?
LYNN LEADS BO OVER TO ONE OF THE GAME BOOTHS. HE HANDS OVER FIVE DOLLARS AND GETS THREE BASEBALLS. HIS FIRST ATTEMPT TO KNOCK OVER THE MILK BOTTLES MISSES ENTIRELY, AS DOES THE SECOND. THE THIRD KNOCKS DOWN FOUR OF THE SIX BOTTLES.
BO: Man, am I rusty.
THE BOOTH WORKER HANDS BO A SMALL KEYCHAIN FOR HIS TROUBLE. LYNN PAYS HER MONEY AND LOOSENS UP HER ARM WHILE THE BOTTLES BO KNOCKED OVER ARE PUT BACK IN PLACE.
LYNN: Watch and learn.
LYNN'S FIRST BALL KNOCKS OVER ALL SIX BOTTLES. SHE PROCEEDS TO KNOCK DOWN THE OTHER TWO BOTTLE PYRAMIDS. THE BOOTH WORKER GIVES HER A TEDDY BEAR. LYNN THEN GIVES THE BEAR TO BO.
LYNN: Put a badge on him and he'll be your new partner.
BO: Officer Teddy? What will Bob say?
LYNN: I don't think he'll mind.
BO: Thank you.
BO GIVES LYNN A KISS ON THE CHEEK. HOLD ON LYNN'S SMILE.
CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S KITCHEN. ROSIE, JO, AND JENNIFER. IN PROGRESS.
JENNIFER: How long is the spanakopeta supposed to be in the oven?
ROSIE: The recipe says until golden brown. Fifteen minutes, I'd say.
ROSIE REMOVES A TRAY FROM THE OVEN AND JENNIFER PLACES HER COOKIE SHEET INSIDE. JENNIFER SMELLS ROSIE'S DISH.
JENNIFER: That baklava smells delicious, Rosie.
JO: With all these exotic Greek dishes, I'm afraid my tuna casserole will look out of place.
ROSIE: Jo, you know your casserole is everyone's favorite.
JENNIFER: Especially Jack's.
JACK, STEVE, AND ABIGAIL ENTER THE KITCHEN.
JACK: Especially Jack's what?
JENNIFER: (GRINNING) Green noodle casserole is your special favorite.
JACK MAKES A FACE AT JENNIFER. STEVE GRINS.
STEVE: Oh yeah, Billy-Jack. I know you never miss an opportunity to eat several dishes of the stuff. You must be starved after spending the day with Abby and me at the carnival... not to mention those ten rides on the Twist-N-Whirl.
JO: I'll be sure to serve you the largest portion, Jack.
JACK: (TO JENNIFER AND STEVE) Thanks. Thanks a lot.
JACK STARTS TO LEAVE.
JENNIFER: Hey, where do you think you're going?
JACK: To my study.
JENNIFER: We could use your help here.
JACK: (GLANCING AROUND THE CROWDED KITCHEN) Have you never heard the saying about too many cooks?
JO: Jack, we know better than to ask you to cook.
JACK: Good.
JENNIFER: So we'll ask you to set the table.
JENNIFER HANDS THE SILVERWARE TO JACK.
JENNIFER: (CONT'D) (TO ABIGAIL) Honey, show Daddy and Uncle Steve what to do.
JACK AND ABIGAIL EXIT TO THE DINING ROOM. STEVE TURNS TO FOLLOW.
JENNIFER: (CONT'D) Wait, Steve.
SHE OPENS THE CABINET AND STARTS HANDING HIM GLASSES UNTIL THEY BECOME ALMOST MORE THAN HE CAN CARRY.
STEVE: We need this many?
JENNIFER EYES THE GLASSES AND HANDS HIM TWO MORE. HE STARES AT THE NUMBER WITH AMAZEMENT.
STEVE: (CONT'D) This really is a family dinner.
JENNIFER: Yes it is. You're home, Steve. Home with your family.
HOLD ON STEVE.
CUT TO: JANET'S OFFICE. JANET IS SITTING IN HER CHAIR AND ABE IS STANDING AT THE WHITE BOARD WITH A MARKER. THE HEADING SAYS "JEWELRY BURGLARIES" AND THERE IS A LISTING OF ADDRESSES AND OTHER INFORMATION.
ABE: I just had a thought.
JANET: Which is...?
ABE: Lawrence Alamain lives on the posh side of town. Do you think he's trying to subsidize his living with stolen jewelry?
JANET: I wouldn't put anything past Alamain, but this isn't really his style.
ABE: No, I guess not. Wishful thinking. I'd love to get him for something. Anything.
JANET: You and me both.
JANET LOOKS AT HER WATCH.
JANET: Hey! Don't you have to be out of here? Lexie will skin you alive if you're late for her dinner party.
ABE: Probably. But it's just the Burkes and the Korcorniks. Not my favorite people in the world. I don't mind being late.
ABE WAVES HIS MARKER AT JANET.
ABE: (CONT'D) In fact, if you were to need me to put in some overtime on this case...
JANET: No way, Carver. Get your butt home and play the gracious host.
ABE: I thought you were my friend, Janet.
JANET: Yup. Friends don't like to see friends murdered at the hands of their wives. See ya.
ABE LAUGHS AND DEPARTS. THE PHONE RINGS.
JANET: (CONT'D) Commander Yamada. (BEAT) Mom, hi!
HOLD ON JANET.
JANET'S OFFICE. JANET IS ON THE PHONE WITH HER MOTHER, CARLOTTA. TWO-WAY. IN PROGRESS.
JANET: There's something wrong. I can hear it in your voice. It's Dad, isn't it?
CARLOTTA: I'm sorry Jannie, but Dad's getting worse.
JANET'S LIP BEGINS TO QUIVER. SHE CLOSES HER EYES AND TAKES A DEEP BREATH BEFORE SPEAKING.
JANET: What's happened?
CARLOTTA: His illness has weakened him to the point where he doesn't get out of bed all day. He's finally asked for something for the pain.
JANET: Then it must be excruciating. Dad always hated painkillers.
CARLOTTA: Oh Jannie, it's so hard to see him like this. He was always such a strong man.
JANET: Is there anything else the doctors can do?
CARLOTTA: There isn't much except to try to keep him as comfortable as possible.
JANET: I want to come home. I know you've said no before, but I really want to see him... and you.
CARLOTTA: Yes, come home. (BEAT) I want the whole family home.
JANET: Good. I'll make my flight arrangements and let you know when I'll be there.
CARLOTTA: Thanks, Jannie. I know how much this will mean to your dad... and to me.
JANET: Take care of yourself too, Mom. I'll be home soon.
JANET HANGS UP THE PHONE. SHE COVERS HER MOUTH AND TIGHTLY CLOSES HER EYES. HOLD ON JANET, SITTING QUIET AND MOTIONLESS.
CUT TO: EUTERPE/PRIVATE DINING ROOM. MICKEY CONTINUES TO READ ROBERT'S WILL. IN PROGRESS.
MICKEY: "CJ shall continue to receive these disbursements on a monthly basis so that he may be free to pursue his creative interests."
THE OTHERS LOOK AT CJ AS HE RUBS HIS EYES. MICKEY CLEARS HIS THROAT BEFORE CONTINUING.
MICKEY: (CONT'D) "And finally, I want to leave a living legacy to my son and to all the fine people of Salem. An endowment has been established to fund the construction and maintenance of a Museum of Tolerance."
DOUG AND JULIE LOOK AT EACH OTHER IN SURPRISE. ELI SMILES AND NODS HIS HEAD.
MICKEY: (CONT'D) "It is my wish that my son, CJ, oversee this effort as much as he is able."
CJ'S EYES WIDEN AND HE INHALES DEEPLY.
MICKEY: (CONT'D) "I would ask that my brother, Eli, and my dear friends, Doug and Julie Williams, do all that they can to assist CJ in this endeavor. I know that their talents and experience will be invaluable in the effort to help everyone remember what must never be forgotten."
MICKEY SETS THE PAPERS DOWN AND LOOKS AT THE OTHERS.
MICKEY: (CONT'D) Well, that's it.
CJ: That's a lot.
DOUG: Robert's generosity knew no bounds.
JULIE: And was exceeded only by his pride in his son.
CJ: I don't know... I hope I can prove myself worthy of that.
ELI: You already have, CJ. You already have.
CJ: But this... how can I...?
JULIE: With the same passion that you put into your painting.
ELI: And the knowledge that you are fulfilling one of your father's most cherished dreams.
DOUG: And with our help, of course.
CJ: (SMILING) You're right. All of you. It will be a big challenge, but it's what Papa wanted. So it will be done. (BEAT) It will be done.
HOLD ON CJ'S DETERMINATION.
CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. ADRIENNE IS STANDING IN THE DOORWAY YELLING AT THE BOYS TO STOP SLIDING DOWN THE STAIRWAY BANISTER IN THE FOYER.
JUSTIN: I swear I will pay for anything they break.
JACK: Don't worry about it.
JUSTIN LOOKS AT HIM IN SHOCK.
JUSTIN: Could you repeat that? I can't believe that Jack Deveraux just said it.
JACK: I said don't worry about it.
STEVE: (TO JUSTIN) Ask him why.
JUSTIN: Why?
JACK: (TO STEVE) I don't know why you find this so funny. (TO JUSTIN) Everything is doubly insured.
ABIGAIL TUGS ON JUSTIN'S SHIRT SLEEVE.
ABIGAIL: Uncle Justin, I have a goin' away present for you.
JUSTIN: Do you, sweetheart?
ABIGAIL HANDS HIM A PICTURE.
ABIGAIL: I drew it myself. See? There are the boys and Aunt Adrienne and you, Uncle Justin.
JUSTIN: And what are these, Abby?
ABIGAIL: Parachutes for if the plane crashes.
JUSTIN: (LAUGHING AND LOOKING AT JACK) She's yours all right.
SOMETHING CRASHES IN THE FOYER.
JACK: I should see what that was. I want an accurate record for the insurance adjuster.
JACK LEAVES THE ROOM WITH ABIGAIL FOLLOWING AT HIS HEELS. JUSTIN AND STEVE WATCH THE PAIR.
JUSTIN: Those are two peas in a pod.
STEVE: I don't know. Thankfully, she seems to have large doses of Jennifer in her too.
JUSTIN: So do you like it here? Living with the dysfunctional Deverauxs?
STEVE: Never thought I'd live to see the day when moving in with baby Billy would not only be my best option, but that I'd even enjoy it. There's something reassuring about this kind of chaos... if you know what I mean.
JUSTIN: You're talking to the king of living in chaos.
STEVE: Well, Greek tycoon anyway.
JUSTIN: You and Jack have come a long way from your days of feuding.
STEVE: We aren't the only one's. I seem to remember some feuding between the two of us too. I guess I did a lot of feuding in the old days.
JUSTIN: Some of it was justified.
STEVE: Maybe. Maybe not. I see now I was trying to make a lot of decisions for my baby brother and sister that I had no right to make. It lead to a lot of heartache. Maybe I should have let them make their own decisions.
STEVE AND JUSTIN TURN TO SEE ADRIENNE AND THE BOYS LAUGHING AND TALKING WITH JACK AND ABIGAIL.
STEVE: When they followed their hearts, they didn't do half bad.
JUSTIN: I'll always take care of them, Steve. Adrienne and the boys are my life.
STEVE: I know that. Adrienne picked a fine husband and father for her kids. My baby sister turned out to be one smart woman.
THERE IS ANOTHER CRASH IN THE FOYER.
JUSTIN: A brave woman too.
OUT ON JUSTIN AND STEVE'S LAUGHTER.
EUTERPE/PRIVATE DINING ROOM. JULIE, ELI, AND CJ ARE SITTING AROUND ONE OF THE TABLES. DOUG ENTERS AND CLOSES THE DOOR.
DOUG: I've arranged for dinner to be served shortly.
CJ: There's so much to think about. I don't know if I can even think of eating. But, thanks for arranging the food, Doug.
DOUG SITS DOWN AND JOINS THE GROUP.
DOUG: I admit that the museum is all I've been thinking about ever since Mickey left. Where to start?
JULIE: I will help out as much as I can and I'm sure that Jack and all of Deveraux Publishing will want to contribute as well.
DOUG: That's a great idea, my dear. This can probably use as much public exposure as we can get.
ELI: I too, would like to volunteer. I am still in contact with many people who can donate stories, photos, and other items from the holocaust.
CJ: Thank you, Uncle Eli. I know that Papa would like that very much.
DOUG: How about if I talk to some folks over at the university's library? They must have some good ideas on what we need to get started.
JULIE: These are all great ideas. I have a feeling that this museum is going to be a great success.
EVERYBODY NODS IN AGREEMENT.
DOUG: What better way to keep Robert's memory and spirit alive?
HOLD ON DOUG'S OPTIMISM.
CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S DINING ROOM. JENNIFER IS POURING WHITE GRAPE JUICE INTO JO'S AND THE CHILDREN'S GLASSES WHILE JACK POURS CHAMPAGNE INTO THE REST OF THE ADULTS' GLASSES.
STEVE: (TO JACK) Well are you going to make a toast with that stuff?
JACK: I'm not too good with toasts... Unless saying "in wine is truth" in Latin counts.
STEVE: It doesn't.
JACK: Then why don't you do it?
STEVE APPEARS SURPRISED, THEN PLEASED.
STEVE: All right. I will. (STANDS) Like Billy-Jack here, I'm not sure I'm any good at making toasts but I'll take a stab at it. (HOLDS OUT HIS GLASS) To Justin and Adrienne and my nephews... All of you came here to welcome me home. I appreciate that. I've known for a long time just how important home and family are, but I had forgotten just how good it felt to be in a home and part of a family.
JO WIPES A TEAR OFF OF HER CHEEK.
STEVE: (CONT'D) And even if your home is half-way across the country... and I hope you have a safe trip home... remember we're together where it counts. We're family.
ADRIENNE: Oh Steve, that's just beautiful.
JACK: (TO JENNIFER) Do the napkins double as handkerchiefs?
ADRIENNE: Jack, you're incorrigible.
JENNIFER: That's one thing to call it.
JUSTIN: Before we descend into the usual form of chaos that marks this family, I'd like to make a toast.
EVERYONE LOOKS AT JUSTIN.
JUSTIN: I can't tell you how much I've enjoyed this visit to Salem. I grew up without much of a family. (BEAT) Anyway, I never had a close family and it's been wonderful being here with Adrienne's... with my family. We may have all grown up with different families in different ways, but standing here looking at the faces in this room, it feels like a real family.
ADRIENNE: That's because it is. It's what I wished for, what I prayed for, and what Mama prayed for too. I must have said it a hundred times by now.
JACK: Two hundred at least.
ADRIENNE: But I just can't get over the idea that sometimes dreams do come true. I missed my big brothers when I was growing up. I wanted my brothers. And then when I found the two of you, I just wanted you to be able to stand in a room together without trying to kill each other.
STEVE: I swear I'll never throw Billy-Jack from a roof again.
ADRIENNE: (SMILING WITH TEARS IN HER EYES) There have been so many things that kept us from being the family we should have always been, but the important thing is we got through it. All of us... Johnsons, Deverauxs, and Kiriakises got through it and found each other and that's all that matters.
EVERYONE TAKES A SIP OF THEIR DRINK.
JOEY/VIC/JACKSON: (IN UNISON) Can we eat yet?
JO: Yes.
THE BOYS DIVE AT THE DISHES ON THE TABLE. THE DINING ROOM IS FILLED WITH NOISE AND CHAOS AS EVERYONE IS SERVED. HOLD ON ADRIENNE'S TEARY SMILE.
CUT TO: EUTERPE. LAWRENCE, NICHOLAS, VIVIAN, AND IVAN ARE SITTING AT A TABLE NEAR THE KITCHEN DOOR.
VIVIAN: This reminds me of your eleventh birthday, Lawrence. We had a bad table then, too.
LAWRENCE: Father didn't want to cause a scene, as I remember. Do you?
IVAN LEERS AT LAWRENCE BUT VIVIAN KEEPS HIM FROM REACTING FURTHER.
VIVIAN: No.
LAWRENCE TURNS TO NICHOLAS.
LAWRENCE: Are you pleased to be back in the school here?
NICHOLAS: I guess.
LAWRENCE: Are you going to be a part of the football team?
NICHOLAS: They call it soccer here, and I haven't decided if I want to try out yet.
LAWRENCE: Oh... well, are you following the comet through your telescope?
NICHOLAS: I was. But after what happened with those people in San Diego, I'm re-evaluating my interest in astronomy.
VIVIAN: (SOTTO VOCE) Short but polite... good, Nikki.
LAWRENCE: Perhaps you would like to take up a new hobby?
LAWRENCE REACHES INTO HIS JACKET POCKET AND REMOVES A SMALL BOOK. HE HANDS IT TO NICHOLAS.
NICHOLAS: (READING THE TITLE) The Indigenous Birds of North America. (BEAT) Thank you, Lawrence.
LAWRENCE: I am so very proud of you, Nikki, and I want to become more involved in your life again. (BEAT) I thought that we might start with a bird watching trip the week after your school term is over.
VIVIAN AND IVAN EXCHANGE HORRIFIED GLANCES.
IVAN: (SOTTO VOCE) I will not let him back into our lives like this.
OUT ON IVAN'S RAGE.
COMMUNITY CENTER/EXT. BO AND LYNN ARE IN THE TENTED AREA, STANDING NEXT TO THE MERRY-GO-ROUND.
LYNN: Oh, come on, Brady...
BO: Nah, I don't think so.
LYNN: Don't tell me a big, strong guy like you is scared.
BO: I'm not scared, I... I just had too much cotton candy, that's all. I wouldn't want to lose it from going around in circles a bunch of times.
LYNN: So you're going to make me go on it all by myself?
BO: You're a big girl. I'm sure you'll be fine.
LYNN: Of course I will. But you won't.
BO: Oh?
LYNN: The guilt will be too much for you.
BO: What guilt?
LYNN: The guilt you'll be feeling once I'm done with you.
BO: Is that a threat?
LYNN: Nope. It's a promise.
BO LOOKS LYNN IN THE EYE FOR SEVERAL SECONDS. THEN HE SMILES AND SHAKES HIS HEAD.
BO: All right, all right. You win.
LYNN: Good. Let's go.
BO HANDS TWO TICKETS TO THE ATTENDANT AND LYNN TAKES BO'S ARM AND PULLS HIM ONTO THE MERRY-GO-ROUND. THEY EACH CLIMB ONTO A HORSE. BO LOOKS AROUND AND SMILES.
BO: Shawn-D loves the merry-go-round.
LYNN: Oh yeah?
BO: Yeah. He loves just about all the rides. The wilder, the better.
LYNN: He's quite the adventurous little boy, is he?
BO: He's definitely that.
THE MERRY-GO-ROUND STARTS TO MOVE.
LYNN: Is that something he got from his old man?
BO: Oh, I dunno.
LYNN: Seems to me that you've had your share of adventures.
BO: That's true, I have. Still, I think Shawn-D gets that spirit more from his mother than from me. Hope was the really adventurous one.
LYNN: I see.
BO: In fact, I think most of the good stuff in Shawn-D came from Hope.
LYNN: I don't believe that for a minute.
BO: No, it's true. His perceptiveness, his strength...
BO STOPS HIMSELF. AFTER A MOMENT, HE SIGHS.
BO: (CONT'D) I'm sorry.
LYNN: What about?
BO: I didn't mean to go on like that.
LYNN: Don't worry about it.
BO: But I...
LYNN: (INTERRUPTING) Bo, really... it's all right. I like hearing you talk about your son.
BO: Really?
LYNN: Really.
BO: It doesn't bother you?
LYNN: Not one bit.
BO CHUCKLES WITH RELIEF AND LYNN SMILES IN AMUSEMENT. HOLD ON THE TWO.
CUT TO: EUTERPE/PRIVATE DINING ROOM. EVERYONE IS ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT THE PROPOSED MUSEUM AND IS TALKING ANIMATEDLY. EVERYONE EXCEPT CJ, THAT IS. HE SITS AT THE TABLE WITHOUT SPEAKING. JULIE FINALLY NOTICES AND QUIETS EVERYONE DOWN.
JULIE: Darling, you haven't said a word. Are you all right?
CJ: I'm feeling overwhelmed.
DOUG: That's understandable. Your father was very generous.
CJ: It's not that. It's just... this is a big responsibility. Really big. (BEAT) I've led a pretty carefree life up until now and Papa indulged me. He is still indulging me.
JULIE: He wanted you to be happy.
CJ: I know. But this museum. This is something really important and I don't want to screw it up. I can't.
ELI: All of us will help. Whatever you need us to do, just ask.
JULIE: Of course, darling. You know you can count on us.
DOUG: I think what CJ is saying is that what he has in enthusiasm and time, he lacks in hard, concrete experience.
CJ: Yes, that's exactly what I'm saying. I'm an artist. I paint. I have no idea how to start something like this, never mind run it. Or deal with funding or bureaucracy...
DOUG: Why don't we try and find someone to advise us? Maybe even someone to stay on and do the day-to-day things? Would that make you feel better, CJ?
CJ: Yes. I think that is the best way to go. This project obviously meant a lot to Papa. I want it to be done right.
HOLD ON CJ'S CONVICTION.
CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM. STEVE AND ADRIENNE ENTER.
STEVE: Okay, little sister, what's so important that you had to drag me away from the table before dessert?
ADRIENNE: I'm sorry. I just didn't know if I would get another chance before we left.
STEVE: Don't apologize. I'm just kiddin'.
ADRIENNE: Let's sit down for a minute.
STEVE: Uh-oh. Do I need to sit down for this?
ADRIENNE: No, nothing like that.
THEY SIT DOWN ON THE SOFA.
STEVE: So, what's up?
ADRIENNE: I didn't want to leave without having a little heart-to-heart with you.
STEVE: About what?
ADRIENNE: About you. How are you doing?
STEVE: I'm doin' okay.
ADRIENNE: No, Steve. I mean how are you really doing? This whole situation has got to be so overwhelming for you after being away for so long. Are you really okay? It's not too much for you?
STEVE: (SHRUGGING) I have my good days and my bad days, just like anybody else. But I think I'm basically in decent shape.
ADRIENNE: What about...?
SHE STOPS HERSELF.
STEVE: What about what?
ADRIENNE: Nothing. I shouldn't bring it up.
STEVE: Too late. Now I'll be wondering what it is, so you'd better tell me. Don't mess with the crazy dude's head.
ADRIENNE: You're not crazy.
STEVE: Depends on who you ask.
ADRIENNE: Steve...
STEVE: Come on, Adrienne. Ask what you wanted to ask.
ADRIENNE: All right. (BEAT) What about Kayla and Marcus? What about the fact that they're together now? How are you coping with that?
STEVE: I'm just tryin' to accept it, I guess. They're together, that's just the way it is. I don't really have any choice but to deal with it.
ADRIENNE: It's so unfair...
STEVE: Hey, who said life is fair? If there's one family that should know that life's not fair, it's ours. We just have to take the hand we're dealt and play it as best we can.
ADRIENNE: We're all here for you, you know that.
STEVE: I know.
ADRIENNE: If you need me, all you have to do is call. I'll be on the next plane out here.
STEVE: I'll remember that.
JUSTIN APPEARS IN THE DOORWAY, UNNOTICED BY STEVE OR ADRIENNE.
ADRIENNE: Or if you just need someone to talk to, you can call. Day or night. Anytime you need me to, I'll listen.
STEVE: Okay.
ADRIENNE: Or I could call you, just to see how things are going. Why don't I do that? I'll call you every day...
SMILING, JUSTIN ENTERS THE ROOM AND WALKS OVER TO ADRIENNE.
JUSTIN: There you two are. Everyone was beginning to wonder...
ADRIENNE: (STANDING UP) Just a little private time.
STEVE: Yeah, I think four rugrats ain't enough of a challenge for my baby sister. She thinks she needs to mother me, too.
ADRIENNE: Steve!
STEVE: (GRINNING) See what I mean? I think I'm in trouble now.
ADRIENNE: Knock it off, you big joker, and give me a hug.
STEVE STANDS UP AND HUGS ADRIENNE TIGHTLY. SHE KISSES HIM ON THE CHEEK.
ADRIENNE: (CONT'D) And don't forget what I said. If you need me, you call.
STEVE: Got it.
JUSTIN: That goes for me, too, Steve. If there's anything I can do to help out, don't hesitate to ask.
JUSTIN OFFERS HIS HAND AND STEVE SHAKES IT.
STEVE: Thanks, Dimples.
JUSTIN SMILES AND PUTS HIS ARM AROUND ADRIENNE.
JUSTIN: We should probably go back. Jo is serving dessert.
STEVE: You two go ahead. I'll be there in a minute.
ADRIENNE: But...
JUSTIN: (INTERRUPTING) You heard the man, darling. Let's go.
JUSTIN WINKS AT STEVE AND USHERS ADRIENNE OUT OF THE ROOM. STEVE SMILES AS HE WATCHES THEM DEPART. ONCE HE IS ALONE, HIS SMILE FADES AND HE WALKS OVER TO THE WINDOW. HE EXHALES HEAVILY AND STARES OUT INTO THE NIGHT. HOLD ON STEVE. AND OUT. FADE TO BLACK.