(fade
in)
Music: Romeo and Juliet by Dire
Straits
The dock. Finn is holding English class outside today. It’s a fairly familiar scene. Jake and Ham are sitting on opposite sides of the dock. Will and Scout are next to each other.
Finn: So, I’ll trust everyone to
read through the play so that we can all be spared the awkwardness of having to
read it aloud when we discuss it on Tuesday.
Scout: I thought we were supposed
to be reading Hamlet next…how’d we get stuck with Romeo and Juliet?
Finn: I changed my mind.
Will
(voice over): Grown-ups. We can’t really
survive without them, but they can be so hard to understand.
Will: Romeo and Juliet is better
anyway.
Finn smiles to himself.
Finn: Why do you say that Mr.
Krudski?
Will
(v.o.) cont’d: Half the time, they ask you stuff that they already know the answer
to.
Will: It’s easier to relate
to. I mean…Hamlet’s so dark.
Hamilton: Right, because Romeo and
Juliet has a happy ending…
Jake: No, but it’s about love…
Will: Yeah, and we can probably
all relate to that.
Jake: And Romeo and Juliet are so
young.
Will: Being young and being in
love…it’s easy to understand.
Finn: Interesting…
Will
(v.o.) cont’d: The other half of the time, they don’t get you at all…but they pretend
to.
Finn
cont’d: …so
have the play read for next time and we’ll discuss this some more. Enjoy lunch.
Everyone gets up to go. Jake, Ham, Will and Scout linger a moment, talking. Finn collects his stuff and prepares to go at the other side of the dock.
Will
(v.o.) cont’d: And as cool as some grown ups are…
Will: Anyone else enjoy class
without Ryder?
Hamilton: Oh yeah…maybe they can add
truancy to his list of activities in the yearbook.
They all laugh.
Finn: You know, gentlemen,
instead of standing around making fun of a struggling classmate, you should go
and enjoy the little free time we give you.
Will
(v.o.) cont’d: …you can’t avoid the inevitable us/them divisions.
They all walk off reluctantly; Finn watches shaking his head light-heartedly.
(cut to): The group as they step off the dock.
Hamilton: He thinks he’s so cool…
Will
(v.o.) cont’d: And don’t even get me started on those of us who think most of them
are out to get us.
Jake: He did have a point…
Scout: Yeah, I barely have enough
time during lunch to go see Jill before next period starts. Speaking of…
Will: Yeah, get out of here
Romeo.
Will
(v.o.) cont’d: Then there are those of us who are so gung-ho to begin adult mode,
they forget the best part…this part…the getting there…the growing up…
(cut to): Will as he rolls his eyes, smiling as Scout runs off.
(fade
out)
Commercial
Break: If
you don’t have The Sims computer game, you need it. It’s so fun. Plus, you can go to www.7deadlysims.com
to get add-ons like Roswell sims and Mulder and Scully sims. My Mulder and Scully had a baby. Yay.
(fade
in): to an establishing shot of Rawley Academy. Early evening.
Music: Only One by Jeremy Kay
(cut to): Scout and Will’s room. Scout is sitting on his bed, talking on the phone. The door is open. He just has shorts on and he looks freshly showered.
Scout: Um, yeah, classes are
great…
(cut
to): the opened doorway. Jill walks
into the doorframe and leans against it.
She’s wearing overalls with a tank top underneath. She also has a button up, short-sleeved
shirt over the rest. Her hair is in the
two buns thing.
(cut to): Scout as he looks up at her.
Scout
(patiently) cont’d: Mostly A’s. Maybe a B minus in
History...I know he could. It’s not a
big deal, though. I will. I know you are.
Scout
nods for Jill to come sit next to him.
(cut
to): Jill who raises her eyebrows, but walks over and sits down.
Scout
cont’d: As
a matter of fact, she just walked in. I
don’t know, let me ask her.
He
covers the phone with his hand.
Scout
cont’d: My
mom wants to know if you’ll talk to her…
Jill: Your mom?
Scout nods and smiles.
Scout
(into phone):
Nope, sorry mom…she says you’re obviously way too weird…
Jill snatches the phone.
Jill: Hi, Mrs. Calhoun….Cindy…no,
I don’t think you’re weird. Scout’s
just being cute. He talks to my dad on
the phone like all the time…oh, well previously London, but he’s coming back to
the States tomorrow and then he’s coming to spend some time in New Rawley.
Scout: Really?
Jill nods.
Jill
cont’d: I
just found out this morning…I’m sure he’d love to meet you; I’d
love to meet you too. That’s too
bad. Thank you, I think I’m pretty
lucky too.
Scout looks a little embarrassed. Jill smiles at him.
Jill
cont’d:
Okay, I will. Bye, Cindy. Nice to meet you too.
Jill hangs up the phone and hands it to Scout.
Jill: She’s nice.
Scout: Yes, she is. I came by to see you earlier, but—
Jill: I was on the phone with my
dad.
Scout: But—
Jill: I got a cell phone for my
half birthday.
Scout: You two are very odd…
Jill: There’s just two of
us. It’s boring to only celebrate
birthdays twice a year. Anyway, my
dad’s going to be in town for a week or so and your mom’s going to come meet
him. On Tuesday.
Scout: Our parents are
meeting. I wish you could meet my dad
too. He’s—
Jill: In Washington right
now. Your mom said.
Scout: Is this weird to you too?
Jill: All the potential parental
interaction?
Scout: Yeah, it’s like we’re
getting…nevermind.
Jill: I know.
Scout smiles. He leans toward her to kiss her and someone comes down the hall, noisily. Scout looks over. He gets up and closes the door, locking it.
Scout: You know, Will’s working
tonight.
Jill gives him a weird look.
Scout
cont’d:
Oh! No…I didn’t mean…
He
looks back at the door he just locked.
Jill laughs; she gets up. Scout
unlocks the door. Jill locks it and
pushes Scout against the door, kissing him.
(cut
to): Finn and Kate are talking in Finn’s classroom. Finn leans against his desk and Kate stands in front of him. The door is opened.
Music: Breaking Me by Johnny Lang
Finn: I’d argue that point if I
could, but—
Will knocks on the doorframe and walks in.
Finn: Hi Will.
Kate: Will.
Will: Uh…I can come back later…
Kate: No. No, I was just leaving.
She turns to Finn.
Kate: You will never convince me
that Andy Warhol is the greatest artist of twentieth century.
Finn shrugs.
Finn: Happy anniversary, by the
way.
Kate: Thank you, but that’s not
until Tuesday.
Finn: Ah, I was close. Got big
plans?
Kate: Steven and I will probably
kick Hamilton out and have a romantic evening at home.
Will looks a little uncomfortable.
Kate
cont’d:
Anyway, I’ll see you later.
Finn: Indeed…and we’ll continue
the debate.
Kate walks past Will and out the door.
Will: I could have come back.
Finn smiles.
Finn: We actually were having a
discussion about art.
Will nods. He doesn’t speak.
Finn: What’d you need, Mr.
Krudski?
Will: I was just wondering…I was
wondering if you switched up the Shakespeare because of Ms. Ryan. I mean, I know Romeo and Juliet is her
favorite and—
Finn: Will…
Will: Right, none of my business—
Finn: I teach Hamlet every year,
okay? Mostly because I don’t have the
patience to teach Romeo and Juliet to a bunch of adolescent boys, but…I think
you guys can handle it.
Will nods.
Finn: And, Johanna did tell me
that she thinks it’s Shakespeare’s best work…and that you would be the
first to agree with her.
Will smiles.
Finn
cont’d: I
haven’t seen her since the conference, Will.
Will looks at Finn for a moment. He looks over at the door, then back at Finn.
Will: You know, maybe you should
do something about that.
Finn: What?
Will: The fact that you haven’t
seen her since the conference.
Finn: I’ve thought very seriously
about what you said to me and—
Will: What do I know?
Finn smiles.
Finn: You know quite a bit, Mr.
Krudski.
Will: Well, in that case,
I think you should see her again.
Finn smiles.
Finn: Thank you for the advice.
Will nods and starts to walk out. He turns back around as he reaches the door.
Will: We’re cool, right?
Finn chuckles.
Finn: Certainly.
Will
smiles and takes off. Finn looks out
the window. He looks thoughtful.
(cut
to): a window in Dr. Parker’s office.
The camera pans down to Hamilton sitting on Dr. Parker’s couch. He crosses his legs, then uncrosses
them. He seems a little nervous. Dr. Parker walks in and sits down in his
chair.
Music: Mad Season by Matchbox 20
Dr.
Parker:
Hey, Hamilton. How’s it going?
Hamilton: It’s…well, it’s awesome
actually.
Dr.
Parker: Even
better than the last time you were here?
Hamilton: If that’s possible…yes.
Dr.
Parker: How
is Jacqueline?
Hamilton: So perfect…
Dr.
Parker:
And, have you told your father that you’re seeing her yet?
Hamilton: Nope…not yet.
Dr.
Parker: I
really don’t understand why you’re so afraid to tell him. He and your mom have been doing wonderfully
in their sessions. He’s really
interested in what’s going on with you.
And…you say your mom knows and is happy for you…
Hamilton: She is…and, if things were
different, I would tell my dad, but—
Dr.
Parker: If
things were different how?
Hamilton: I can’t say.
Dr.
Parker: I
just think it sounds like you and Jacqueline are getting very close and if
things were to progress—
Hamilton: Progress?
Dr.
Parker:
…into a more adult relationship…
Hamilton swallows and looks a little embarrassed.
Dr.
Parker cont’d:
…I think you should definitely talk to your mom, but—
Hamilton: We had this awkward
exchange once, but—
Dr.
Parker: I
also think your dad would be a great person for you to talk to.
Hamilton: We’re not having sex.
Dr.
Parker:
You’re not having sex now or you’re never having sex?
Hamilton: Do we have to talk about
this?
Dr.
Parker:
No. Why wouldn’t you want to
talk about it?
Hamilton: Okay, that question
is just like talking about it.
Dr. Parker waits patiently.
Hamilton
cont’d: Sex
just isn’t something we talk about anymore.
Dr.
Parker: Why
not?
Hamilton
pauses. He looks around.
Dr.
Parker: We
really don’t have to talk about this now—
Hamilton: Well, now that we already
are talking about it…I think…I think we don’t talk about it because we both
realize that the only reasons we have for not doing it are weak at best—
Dr.
Parker:
Like what?
Hamilton: Like, if we say “oh, we’re
too young.”
Dr.
Parker: Why
isn’t that a good reason for waiting?
Hamilton: Because it’s us. We’ve been together less than a year, but…it
feels like a lifetime. And saying we
aren’t ready is just dumb because we are so ready.
Dr.
Parker:
Well, I think that many sixteen year olds who end up having sex feel that
way…that things are somehow different for them. Many more probably don’t think things through at all.
Hamilton doesn’t say anything.
Dr.
Parker: I
highly recommend letting your father in on your life. But, I also recommend talking honestly and
openly with your girlfriend about stuff like this.
Hamilton: Well, I might take half
your advice.
Dr.
Parker:
It’s a start. So, how else have you
been feeling lately?
Hamilton
looks around again as the session goes on.
Hamilton seems happy to be talking to someone even though he looks a
little awkward and nervous.
(fade
out)
Commercial Break: So, we
know that Estee is all into punk now.
Except, technically (and according to the 12-yr-old on Napster) it would
actually be classified as skate. But,
whatever, this is your punk music commercial break so check out the site
dedicate to the Ataris: www.ataris.com. My So Called Life is their song about
Claire Danes. It is amusing and fun to
listen to.
(fade
in): Establishing shot of Rawley.
(cut
to): Jake walking in the hall toward her room.
She seems to remember something and turns around.
Music: Sucker by New Found Glory
(cut
to): Will and Scout’s door as Jake knocks.
Scout: Uh, yeah, hang on…
Jake looks slightly amused. Scout opens the door, still no shirt.
Scout: Jake. Hey.
Come on in.
As he opens the door we see Jill sitting on the bed. She no longer has on the button up shirt and she is hooking one of the overall straps. Her hair is down. When she sees Jake she stands up and picks up her shirt off the floor. Jake shakes her head, laughing a little.
Jill: What?
Jake: Nothing.
They exchange a “we’ll talk later” look. Jake looks back at Scout.
Jake
cont’d:
Scout, do you have my history notes?
Scout: Yeah, thanks for letting me
borrow them. You’re a much better
note-taker than me.
He goes over to his desk and gets a notebook. He hands it to Jake.
Jake: Thanks…
Scout nods.
Jake
cont’d: I’m
just going to go now…
Jill: Wait, I’ll come with. We haven’t talked in awhile and…my dad is
coming.
Jake: What? When?
Jill: Oh my God…he doesn’t know
about you and this whole cross-dressing-going-to-Rawley-Boys’ thing.
Jake: No…
Jill: We’ll figure something
out…he’s not coming today or anything.
(cut to): the hall as they walk out and practically into…Greg Thomas.
Jill: Dad!
Jake closes her eyes and swallows.
Greg: You can open them,
Jacqueline; I’m still here.
Jake
opens her eyes.
Jill: Dad…this isn’t what it
looks like.
Greg: Well, that’s good.
Jake: Greg, you can’t tell my
mom.
Greg: Well, that does seem pretty
self-evident.
Jill
(unconvincingly): Because, Jacqueline doesn’t want her mom to know about the play she’s
doing. It’s kind of this Boys Don’t Cry
meets School Ties, you know? But minus
all the anti-Semitism. And—
Greg: Save it Jill. You know, I was just going to come see Scout
and take him over to surprise my daughter, but…as so often happens with you
two, it is I who has been surprised.
Scout walks out into the hall…still no shirt on. Greg raises his eyebrows. He looks around at the three of them.
Greg: And things get even more
interesting. Scout, put some clothes
on…the four of us are going for a walk.
(cut to): Gwen and Ryder in Gwen’s room. Ryder is sprawled out on Gwen’s bed. Gwen is sitting on the floor working on some type of project.
Music: Want You Bad
by Offspring
Ryder: They’re seriously getting
me something for graduation?
Gwen: Ryder, they pay for you to go to school here. For your eighteenth birthday, they got you a Corvette. Just because they’re not the most emotionally supportive people in the world, doesn’t mean they won’t compensate you for making it out of high school.
Ryder: Tell me what they’re
getting me…
Gwen: No…
Ryder: I need to know if it’s
worth sticking around here a few more months.
Gwen: What are you talking
about? Of course you’ll stick around.
Ryder: I talked to my dad and he
said I could go home anytime.
Gwen: What?
Ryder: I’ll be working with him
when I graduate anyway.
Gwen: Fine. Want me to help you pack?
Ryder gets up and looks at her. He turns to go.
Ryder: I think I can handle it.
He
slams the door. Gwen looks a little
regretful for being so harsh with him.
(cut to): Will walking down the hall of the dorms. Several minutes have elapsed since the previous scene. Will hast his Friendly’s uniform on. Ryder walks past him and shoves him.
Will: What’s your malfunction,
Ryder?
Ryder: As usual, you were in my
way, Krudski, but…I won’t have that problem anymore.
He turns around to face Will.
Will: Oh, and why’s that?
Ryder: Because…I’m leaving.
Will: Yes, no one is more
thrilled with your graduation than I—
Ryder: I’m not talking about
graduating…I’m going to pack right now.
Will: That’s ridiculous. Unless—
Ryder: I didn’t flunk out or get
kicked out, if that’s what you’re thinking.
Will: Well, then, why go? You’ll be graduating in a few months.
Ryder: No…I won’t…because I’ll be
long gone by then.
Will
doesn’t know how to respond. Ryder just
shrugs and walks off. Will rolls his
eyes.
Will
(to himself and sarcastically): Heartbreaking…
(cut to): a picnic table by the lake. Jake sits between Jill and Scout on one side of the table; Greg sits on the other.
Greg: Okay, so…you started this
to get Monica to notice and by the time she did, you realized you wanted to
stay…
Jake: Pretty much.
Greg: And you’ve been going by
“Jack.”
Jake: Jake.
Greg: Why not “Jack”?
Jake: Too close to the truth, I
guess. I don’t know.
Greg: And people know about
this? I mean, Scout obviously
does. And…Hamilton, no doubt.
Jake: And Will…and this creep
names Ryder. That’s it.
Jill: And Finn.
Jake: Oh yeah, but—
Scout: Ham’s mom…
Jill: Bella, but she doesn’t go
here.
Scout: Sean too, but same deal.
Jake: Thanks guys…I think that
about covers it.
Jill: Well, now my dad.
Jake sighs.
Greg: Wow. I mean, that’s all I can say…about all of
it.
Jake: I know it seems a little
off the wall, but—
Greg: No, Jacqueline…or, um…Jake,
it doesn’t seem to off the wall for you.
Jake looks down.
Greg: Hey, and I’m not saying
that disparagingly.
She looks back up.
Greg: I mean, it’s different,
but…even with this deer-in-the-headlights look you’ve been wearing since I got
here…I believe you when you say you’re happy here.
Jake blushes. Hamilton comes running up before he realizes who is sitting with them. He stops short when he sees Greg there.
Greg: Hamilton, how are
you?
Hamilton: I’m good, Mr. Thomas. Nice to see you again.
Ham glances at Jake.
Greg: Just discussing with
Jacqueline how we should deal with this situation that I have just become
familiar with.
Scout: Can I just ask what I’m
doing here?
Greg: Sitting there quietly until
you and I take a walk together…alone.
Scout nods and looks down. Greg smiles at him, shaking his head then looks back to Jake. Hamilton walks up behind her and places a hand on her shoulder.
Greg: Look, I find this a little
weird…and I’m in theatre. But, I
wouldn’t even know where to begin explaining this to Monica. I’m sure the two of you can figure out how
and when to tell her. Hell,
maybe you can get through the next two years without telling her. That’s not going to be my call. But, I think you know my advice would
be honesty…and quick.
Jake: Greg, I could be honest
with you, but…it’s not like that with my mom. You know that. She
doesn’t want to know everything. It’s
not like you and Jill. Mom and I don’t
know how to communicate and sometimes I think she likes it better that
way. She asks about school, I tell her
I’m making a B in chemistry and she’s happy.
She doesn’t care that the teacher hates me and the fact that I am
pulling a B is beyond a miracle.
Greg: How do you know if you
don’t give her the opportunity?
Jake: I can’t. Not now.
There’s too much at stake.
She looks back at Ham.
Greg: More drama than an episode
of 90210. But, hey, I can respect
that. I know what’s it’s like to be in
love…and I understand how hard it is to get attention from your mom so…know
that you’re secret’s safe with me.
Jake: Thank you.
Hamilton nods in agreement.
Greg: Now…young Calhoun. Shall we go for a walk?
(cut
to): Scout. He nods. He looks a little nervous.
(fade
out)
(fade
in): Hamilton and Jake still sitting at the picnic table. They are alone. They sit on opposite sides.
Hamilton sits on the side facing the lake. He looks across the lake, looking deep in thought. Jake studies him.
Music:
Nine
Days by Weekend Excursion
Jake: You okay?
Hamilton looks back at her and smiles.
Hamilton: Yeah.
He looks like he wants to speak, but doesn’t. He looks at her and she raises her eyebrows. He looks down.
Jake: Hamilton?
He looks up. He’s nervous.
Jake
cont’d: We
have a lot to think about, right?
Hamilton: Do you want to tell your
mom?
Jake: No, I’m not ready. Maybe I won’t ever be ready. I mean, I want her to know about us…and she
does.
Hamilton nods.
Jake
cont’d:
Does it kill you that your dad doesn’t know?
Hamilton: It’s a little hard. Dr. Parker really thinks I should tell him.
Jake: He knows?
Hamilton: No. Which is why he can’t figure out why my dad doesn’t know about my girlfriend.
Jake
laughs.
Jake: Does this make sense to
anyone besides us?
Hamilton: Does that really matter?
Jake smiles.
Jake: No…no, I guess not.
Hamilton looks back across the lake.
Jake
cont’d: Was
there something else?
Hamilton looks back at her.
Hamilton: Dr. Parker…well, he asked
if, you know, we’re having sex.
Jake looks down. Hamilton continues, timidly.
Hamilton
cont’d: And
then he wanted to know if we talk about it.
Jake looks back up at him.
Hamilton: I mean, we don’t have to if you don’t want to…talk about it, I mean.
Jake stands up.
Jake: Good because I don’t.
Hamilton stands up too.
Hamilton: Don’t be mad. We don’t have to
talk about it.
Jake
starts to go.
Jake: I can’t deal with this,
Hamilton…
She
walks off. Hamilton watches her
go. He doesn’t know what to do so he
lets her go.
Music: She Levels Me by Dezeray’s
Hammer
(cut to): Inside the dorms. Ryder is walking with the same duffle bag he carried into Rawley that day during the summer. Jake comes around a corner.
Jake: Going on vacation?
Ryder: Yeah, permanent
vacation. I’m out of here.
Jake: What happened? Someone finally wise up and throw you out?
Ryder: Well, believe it or not,
Love…I’m leaving by my own free will.
Jake: Ryder, that’s stupid. You’re out of here in a few months. With a diploma.
Ryder: I don’t need a diploma
where I’m going.
Jake: Which is where?
Ryder: Other than none of your
goddamned business…to London. I’m
working with my dad. He runs a
playhouse.
Jake: Your dad runs a playhouse
in London? My mom is there right now
doing the play—
Ryder: Look, sweetheart, while I’d
love to hang around and bond over this…I’ve got to go.
Jake: Can I just ask one thing?
His harshness fades:
Ryder: What?
She’s a little taken aback by his tone. She hesitates before speaking:
Jake: This has absolutely nothing
to do with anything that went on between us, right?
Ryder laughs. He
steps close to her. He moves so that
his nose is just a few inches from hers.
His severity returns:
Ryder: Get over yourself. Everyone else has. Ham too probably. I bet
the two of you are still clinging to the whole virginity thing.
Jake:
Shut up,
Ryder.
Ryder: What’s the matter,
Love? Too afraid to do your own
boyfriend? Or…maybe you’ve developed a
bit of a thing for…someone else.
Ryder moves a little closer to her.
Jake: I’m sure you’d love
that. Anything that destroys what I
have with Hamilton. Well, we’re
happy…and we’re fine. And, I’m sure
he’d be as thrilled as I am that the biggest annoyance we’ve had will be leaving
the country.
Ryder: Well…in that
case…
He steps back and looks at her for a moment.
Ryder: But…only because you asked
so nicely.
He turns to go back to his room. Jake shakes her head and watches him go.
(cut to): Scout and Greg walking by the lake. Neither says anything. Scout looks nervous.
Greg: I like you, Scout.
Scout: Thank you, sir.
Greg: However, if you call me sir
again I might like you a little less.
Scout: Sorry.
Greg: I’m kidding.
They walk for a few more seconds.
Greg: Listen, my daughter, she
practically gives me a play by play on every kiss. And, I thought I was okay with that until the reality of it all
hit me today. Seeing her in your
dorm…it made me realize that despite how close we are, I’m going to lose her…to
you.
Scout: You have nothing to worry
about, s—Greg. I mean, I have nothing
but respect for Jill. And, I love
her…so much.
Greg nods. He stops walking and looks out across the lake.
Greg: I just don’t want either of
you to feel that you need to hide anything from me.
Scout: I think Jill knows that
and…I get it too.
Greg
nods.
Greg: This is the first time you
and I have been able to talk, alone…and in person.
Scout: How am I doing?
Greg laughs.
Greg: You’re making me feel like
such a dad.
Scout doesn’t know how to take that. Greg smiles and pats him on the shoulder.
Greg
cont’d:
Come on, son, let’s go find Jillian.
(cut to): Jill sitting on Jake’s bed. Jake walks in. She looks less than thrilled to see Jill.
Jill: Hey…what’s up?
Jake: Nothing.
Jill stands up, puts her hands on Jake’s shoulders and forces her to sit down on the bed. Jill sits down next to her.
Jill: What’s up?
Jake: What’s up with you? You’re the one sitting in my
room all alone.
Jill: Jacqueline…bipolar was
never pretty on you.
Jake sighs.
Jake:
I’m sorry.
Jill: Don’t be sorry. Tell me what’s wrong.
Jake: Can I ask you something?
Jill: As long as it’s not a way
to avoid the topic at hand.
Jake: No, no it should lead us right there.
Jill: Hit me.
Jake: You and Scout…do you guys
talk about…sex.
Jill: Wow. Um…okay…
Jake: I mean you don’t have to
tell me…
Jill: Why wouldn’t I tell
you?
A beat.
Jill
cont’d: We
haven’t really talked about it. I mean,
I think he knows that I’m not opposed to the idea. And, today…I mean, if you hadn’t knocked on
the door…
Jake smiles.
Jake: I’m so sorry about
that…
Jill: Well, actually, if it
hadn’t been you, it would have been my dad so, thanks.
Jake laughs.
Jake: Dear Seventeen, my dad
walked in on my boyfriend and I…doing what exactly?
Jill laughs.
Jill: Not having sex….
Jake: By Clinton’s definition?
Jill smiles.
Jill: Don’t go there.
Jake laughs. There’s a beat.
Jill
cont’d: Seriously, though, we
weren’t anywhere near having sex.
We probably won’t be for awhile.
And as far as talking about it…it’s not talking about sex that’s
the really big step, you know?
Jake smiles. She nods.
Jake: Yeah…good point.
There’s a knock. Jake closes her eyes.
Jake: Come in.
Scout and Greg walk in.
Greg: There you are.
Jill: Dad, have you been
torturing Scout?
Greg: Yes…and now it’s your turn.
Jake: Well, you three have
fun…I’ve got to run.
Greg: He’s still sitting at the
picnic table.
Scout: He looks all depressed.
Jake: Thanks…
Jake
leaves. Scout and Greg exchange amused
looks. Jill looks lost.
(cut to): Will as he walks up to Friendly’s. When he walks in, his father, Brian, is sitting at the counter. He looks taken aback.
Music: Notice by
Dezeray’s Hammer
Will: Dad?
Brian: Hi, son.
Will: Is everything okay? Where’s mom?
Brian: Everything’s fine. She’s at home.
Will: Well, then, what are you
doing here?
Brian: Can’t a man go out and eat
every once in awhile?
Will gives him a suspicious look as he walks around the counter. The person working clocks out and exits.
Will: What can I get you?
Brian: How about a burger?
Will: Sure.
Will writes down the order and hands it back to the cook.
Brian: Listen, Will…I need a
favor.
Will
(to himself):
I should have known.
Brian: Your mom just isn’t
bringing in the extra money we need.
Now, we’ve missed our last two house payments. We need money, Will.
Will: So go to the bank…get a
loan.
Brian: Things aren’t that simple,
son.
Will: Why are you here, Dad?
Brian: We need about three
thousand dollars. If we can pay the old
house payments, we’ll be able to catch up again. We just need to get back on our feet and we’ll be fine.
Will: Are you…are you asking me
for a loan?
Brian: I figure you’ve saved up at
least that much seeing as how you’ve got those scholarships and all. Why would you even need money?
Will: Dad…it’s called college.
Brian: You’ve got two more years
for that.
Will: Look, I’m going to have to
think about this…
Brian: Of course…
Brian stands up.
Brian
cont’d: Of
course you would…I bet if it was for one of those Rawley boys, or that Banks
girl at the gas station or…even that teacher of yours…he’s your hero,
isn’t he? He really made it out of New
Rawley, didn’t here? Right up the
road.
Will looks hurt.
Brian
cont’d: I’m
going…you think about what I’ve asked.
I’ll be back on Tuesday. Have
the money.
Brian exits. The cook puts out the burger. Will looks back at it then over at the door. Bella walks in.
Bella: Will, your dad…
Will: Yeah…
Bella: What’d he want? Is your mom okay?
Will: She’s fine. He wanted to borrow money.
Bella:
Really?
Will: Yeah…pretty crazy, huh?
Will
walks back around the counter and sits on a stool. He looks upset over the whole thing.
Bella walks over. She puts a hand on his shoulder.
Bella: Don’t let him do this to
you, Will. I mean, I don’t know how
much he needs, but—
Will: Three thousand dollars.
Bella looks surprised by the amount.
Bella: You’re just a kid…you don’t
have to be the grown-up here. You’re
allowed to be selfish. Tell him no.
Will: It’s not that easy.
Bella considers this for a moment.
Bella: I guess it isn’t.
The bell rings indicating the arrival of customers. Will stands up and Bella rubs his back assuringly. They turn toward the door.
(cut to): the door as Johanna, Meagan and Finn walk in. Will and Bella look at one another.
Meagan: Bella! Will!
Hi guys!
Bella: Hey Meagan.
Will: How’s it going?
Will walks back behind the counter.
Meagan: Good. Finn came over to take us out for ice cream.
Meagan walks over to the counter and climbs up on a stool. She talks to Will.
Meagan
cont’d: I
mean, sure I know it’s a total bribe, but if the guy wants to give me some free
ice cream…why not take him up on it?
Will leans against the counter.
Will: Good plan.
He smiles.
Meagan: I know.
Johanna sits on one side of Meagan. Finn thinks about it then sits on the other side of her.
Bella: Well, my break is
over. I’ll see you later Will.
She
pats Meagan on the back.
Bella
cont’d: Bye
Meag…Ms. Ryan…Finn.
They say goodbye.
Meagan: Okay, I would like a banana
split. None of that Pineapple stuff
though, ok? Just chocolate and strawberry.
Will: Okay. What about you two?
Finn: I would like…a strawberry
sundae.
Johanna: You know what I want, Will…
Will: Hot fudge. It’ll be right up, guys.
Meagan: Will, you’re the best.
Will smiles and turns around.
(cut to): an establishing shot of the lake.
(cut to): Hamilton sitting at the picnic table. He has his arms crossed on the picnic table. His head rests on top of them, but he looks across the lake. Jake walks up and sits next to him.
Music: These Days
by Powderfinger
Jake: I’m sorry.
He looks over.
Hamilton: Hey…
Jake: I screwed up, okay? I had no right to get mad at you. Sex is something that we should talk
about. I mean, it’s not like we never
have.
Hamilton: I just want you to know
that I’m operating under the basic assumption that we’re waiting.
Jake: You are?
Hamilton: You aren’t?
Jake: I don’t know.
Hamilton: Really?
Jake laughs.
Jake: That was not me giving you
an all access pass, Hamilton.
Hamilton: There’s an all access pass?
He smiles.
Jake: Cute.
A beat.
Hamilton: So…if we’re not waiting—
Jake: When you say waiting, you
mean waiting for what exactly?
Marriage? Until we’re
older? Next Tuesday?
Hamilton: We might not be married,
but…we’ll be older…by next Tuesday…
Hamilton starts to laugh at his obvious attempt at a joke.
Jake:
Okay.
His smile fades.
Hamilton: What?
Jake: Next Tuesday.
Hamilton: Seriously?
Jake
nods.
Hamilton
cont’d: Wow…
Jake: I mean, if you’re cool with
it…
Hamilton raises his eyebrows. He looks confused…not where he was expecting the conversation to end up.
Hamilton: No…I’m—I’m cool with it.
Jake: Okay.
Hamilton: Okay.
Jake
looks around to make sure no one is watching.
She kisses him on the cheek, gets up and walks off, looking a little
freaked out. Hamilton looks across the
lake. He swallows. He looks a little shocked and a lot scared
as hell.
(fade
out)
(fade
in): to a black screen. In white
letters “Tuesday” is written.
Music:
Falling
Down by Vertical Horizon
(dissolve
to): An establishing shot of Rawley Academy.
It’s in the morning before classes.
(cut
to): Will and Scout’s room. They’re
both dressed. Scout is tying his shoes
and Will is putting some books into his backpack.
Will: Oh, hey, you’re still
covering for me today, right?
Scout: Oh…Will, my mom is coming
today. We’re going out with Jill and
her dad.
Will: Oh…okay.
Scout: I’ll take every other shift
this week…
Will: No, no don’t worry
about.
Scout: Will, I really am
sorry. Were you going to do something
with Bella?
Will shrugs.
Will: I didn’t have any plans…I
just thought you might want some shifts that’s all, but…I need the extra money
anyway.
Scout: Are you kidding me? You’ve been doing nothing but saving. You’ve gotta have like a million bucks.
Will laughs.
Will: Not quite.
Scout: Well, listen man…however I
can make this up to you…
Scout
picks up his backpack and pats Will on the back.
Scout
cont’d: You
just let me know.
Scout walks out and closes the door behind him.
Will: Got three thousand dollars?
Will
shakes his head and hops up. He grabs
his bookbag and runs out the door.
(cut to): an establishing shot of Will’s house.
(cut
to): The kitchen. Brian and Susan are
there. Susan is making lunch for
Brian. He sits at the table drinking
coffee.
Susan: I just can’t believe you
went to Will like that…he’s just a boy.
Brian: He’s not just a boy…he’s
Mr. Hotshot Rawley boy. He can afford
to help his family out.
Susan: Why? His family never makes much of an
effort to help him out.
Brian takes the last sip of his coffee. He gets up and takes his lunch.
Brian: I’m going to see him today
when I get off work.
He exits. Susan shakes her head.
(dissolve to): English class on the dock. Play discussion time. Same positions as last time. Scout and Will sit next to each other. Jake and Ham sit on opposite sides of the dock.
Hamilton: Why are we always
reading such depressing crap…I need a happy ending every once in awhile.
Will: Who says it’s not happy?
Hamilton: Um, hello…they die.
Will: So what? Remember when we read Wuthering
Heights? Heathcliff and Catherine
couldn’t be together in this world, but in Heaven they were reunited. There’s your happy ending.
Hamilton: Yeah right, that book
sucked too.
Jake: I think you’re overlooking
something pretty important.
Everyone looks over at Jake. She’s sitting with her knees pressed to her chest. She has a cap on.
Hamilton: What?
Jake: Love…
She glances at Hamilton then down.
Finn: Go on…
She looks back up and tries to collect her thoughts.
Jake: I think…more than anything,
the play is about being in love...and trying to overcome the obstacles that
come with that. I mean they practically
fell in love the first time they met.
Hamilton: And then they got
married. I mean they just met
each other.
Jake: You think they rushed
things?
Hamilton: Yeah, they were like even
younger than us, right?
Will: Being young doesn’t make
you wrong. The longer people are alive,
the more bitter they become. Look at
the Montagues and the Capulets. I mean,
it’s their fault Romeo and Juliet had such a hard time.
Finn: Read the balcony scene,
though. I think that whole “deny thy
father and refuse thy name” thing turned them on. If they hadn’t had the whole family feud…would Romeo and Juliet
have still been so determined to be together?
Jake: Like if he just met her…she
was just a regular girl…not someone his dad would disapprove of…not
someone…sort of…off limits? Would
he…would he still love her?
Scout: We’re still talking about
the play here, right guys?
Scout
cracks up. A few of the guys
snicker. Others, by now accepting, not
questioning, of Jake and Ham just roll their eyes. Will sort of back hands him on the arm to shut him up. He stops laughing.
Hamilton
(to Scout, a little angry): Of course. (to Jake, matter-of-factly): And…of course.
Finn: Of course what, Ham? Let’s get back on track.
Hamilton: Romeo would still love
her. They’d still be in love. They’d still want to be together. I mean, don’t get me wrong, I still believe
in love…
He looks at Jake, not really discreetly, but he doesn’t care anymore.
Hamilton
cont’d: I
just think maybe Romeo and Juliet needed more time.
Finn: More time would have
been nice…and would be nice for us, but alas…we are out of it. You’re all dismissed.
(cut to): Hamilton walking off the dock. Jake runs up to him and grabs his arm. A few of the guys give them a weird look, but keep walking.
Jake: Hey, Hamilton…
Hamilton turns around. He’s not mad or flustered. He seems okay.
Music: Over My Head
by Lit
Jake: What was that?
Hamilton: What?
Jake: The completely loaded
discussion about...or, not about rather—
Hamilton: What?
Jake: Are you kidding me? They rushed in…they were too young….
Hamilton: Oh…oh, you thought…look, I
was talking about them not us, ok?
I like pushing Finn’s buttons.
Jake looks at him first suspiciously.
Jake: You’re sure?
Hamilton smiles mischievously.
Hamilton: Yes. I mean, yes, you know?
Jake smiles and grabs his shirt sleeve, pulling it slightly to get him to move.
Jake: Okay…well, then, come on
Romeo.
Hamilton: Wait, right now?
Jake laughs and clears her throat, deepening her voice.
Jake: Dude, we have to go to
lunch.
Hamilton rolls his eyes and they walk off. Scout and Will are still on the dock.
(cut to): a closer shot of them.
Will: So, are you all nervous about
dinner tonight?
Scout: No…do you think I should
be?
Will: Well, it is kind of like
your parents meeting each other…it’s kind of big, right?
Scout: I wish my dad could have
come. He’s like so different from
Jill’s dad, but they would probably still get along great. I mean, my mom will definitely like
him. And, she’s gonna love Jill. I mean, right?
Will raises his eyebrows.
Will: You’re asking me?
Scout: She’s likable, right? I mean…I like her. And…you like her right?
Will nods.
Scout
cont’d: So,
we could conclude that most people who meet her like her?
Will: Man, you’re totally a
wreck.
Scout: It’s just that…my mom…she’s
just this ordinary mom, you know? My
parents are just regular parents…plus or minus a little scandal here and
there. And Jill and her dad are so
different. And they’re honest about
stuff. I don’t think I’ve ever even heard
my mom say “sex.” What if she doesn’t
like Jill or…Jill hates her.
Will: I guess you’ll have to get
a new girlfriend.
Scout: Not an option.
Will gives him a “see where I was going with that?” look.
Will: Well, then, I guess you’ll
just have to deal with whatever happens.
You’re certainly not going to be able to change it by stressing about
it.
Scout: You’re right. I just need something to keep my mind off of
it until 8:00.
Will raises his eyebrows.
Will: I got something for you.
(dissolve to): Will and Scout’s room. After school. Scout is pulling on his Friendly’s uniform shirt.
Scout: This was a great idea.
Will smiles.
Will: Sucker…
(cut
to): Jake’s room. Hamilton is sitting at
Jake’s desk doing homework. Jake is
searching through her drawers. Hamilton
tries to concentrate, but is distracted by Jake’s rummaging.
Hamilton: What are you looking for?
Jake: I had these candles. My mom sent them after the whole power
outage thing. And now, they’re nowhere
to be found…
Hamilton: Well, if the power goes out
again…guess we’re screwed.
Jake looks at him as he turns around and tries to get back to work. .
Jake: You have…
Hamilton: Huh?
He turns back around.
Jake: I was just making sure that
you have…protection.
Hamilton: Pr—oh, yeah…I mean, yeah,
of course.
Hamilton smiles at her then turns back to his book. When Jake can’t see him he looks a little freaked out.
Hamilton: I’m going to um…
He gets up.
Hamilton
cont’d: I
gotta ask Scout a question about this trig homework. Be right back.
He walks out quickly before Jake can respond.
(cut
to): Will and Scout in their room.
Scout is about to leave.
Hamilton walks in.
Hamilton: Guys…I need help.
They look at one another then back at him.
Scout: What do you need?
Hamilton tries to look casual.
Hamilton: Do either of you have an
extra, um…
Scout: You’re going to have to
speed this up…I have to go to work.
Hamilton: …condom.
Will and Scout are both surprised by this. They look at one another again. Will turns back to him.
Will: Sorry, man, but—
Scout: I do. I have like a box around here somewhere.
Will: You do?
Scout: Don’t look at me like
that…it’s not an opened box.
Will: Hey…whatever…that’s your
business.
Scout starts looking around.
Scout: It doesn’t hurt to be
prepared. Now, what happened to them?
Will: So, Ham…I didn’t even know
you and Jake were—
Hamilton: We’re not.
Scout
looks at him questioningly.
Scout: So, who’s the lucky girl?
Hamilton: No, I mean…we haven’t been,
but…today—
Will: Wow…big day. Congratulations, Ham.
Scout: Okay…I mean, is she in
there waiting right now or can I find them when I get back from work? Say 7:30-ish?
Hamilton nods.
Hamilton: That’ll work…as long as
it’s by eight.
Will: You scheduled it? Is it, like, in your day planner?
Scout laughs.
Hamilton: Can we just…erase this
conversation. Please?
Will: We won’t say a word.
Hamilton nods and turns to walk out.
Scout: And, Ham…try not to look
this freaked out tonight.
Hamilton shakes his head and exits. Will and Scout look at one another questioningly. They both shrug.
Scout: I’m going to head to
work. See ya later.
Will: Yeah…hey, Scout…if my dad
comes by can you tell him that my answer is going to have to be “no.” I have a future to think about.
Scout: What are you talking about?
Will: It’s nothing
important. Can you just tell him?
Scout: Yeah, sure thing. See ya…
Scout
exits. Will swallows and looks a little nervous.
(fade
out)
(fade
in): to Jake walking onto the Rawley Girls campus.
Music:
The New
Fred Astaire by Lost Boys’ Confusion
Ryder: Hey…Jake.
Ryder comes running up behind her.
Jake: God…what now Ryder? I thought you were taking off.
Ryder: And I thought I told you I
was sticking around to bug you.
Jake: Mission accomplished,
now…please, just get lost.
Ryder: I’m going to see Gwen…my
guess is you’re headed to the same room.
Jake gives him a fairly dirty look.
Ryder: I know that you usually
hate my guts, but…there’s something else behind today’s evil glare. I mean…are you alright?
Jake: I—
Jake doesn’t know what to say.
Ryder: Yes, well…I didn’t really want you to have to tell me either. Let’s just go find our respective Rawley girls.
(cut to): Jill’s room. Jill is painting. Gwen is sitting on her bad reading. She glances up at the painting.
Gwen: You’re really very good,
you know?
Jill turns around. She smiles.
Jill: Thank you.
Gwen smiles and looks back to her book.
Jill
cont’d:
Something on your mind?
Gwen looks back up.
She can’t decide whether or not to speak.
Jill
cont’d:
‘This a Ryder thing?
Gwen sighs. She doesn’t seem to want to talk to Jill about it, but she gives in and speaks.
Gwen: …he’s so hard to deal
with. He gets mad so easily.
Jill: So, let him get mad. He’s not worth the stress.
Gwen: He is to me.
Jill: Why?
Gwen: Look, out of our
dysfunctional little step family…he is the nice one. His attitude punishes everyone around
him…but it hurts him too.
Jill: I’m sorry, but…how can you
not realize that that is such crap?
Ryder doesn’t deserve you.
Gwen doesn’t say anything.
Jill
cont’d: You
should talk to him and tell him to give you a little respect.
Gwen: I—
There is a knock at the door. Jill looks at Gwen.
Jill: Come in.
Jake opens the door.
Jill: Hey…how’s it going, Jake?
Jake: Not that great.
Jill: Well, you just came from
the boys’ campus. Did you see Ryder
anywhere around?
Ryder sticks his head in the room, over Jake’s shoulder.
Ryder: I’m here…reporting for
duty.
Jill looks a little surprised.
Jill: Well, perfect.
She grabs Gwen, pulling her up.
Jill
cont’d:
Gwen needs to talk to you. (to
Gwen): remember, respect.
Gwen rolls her eyes but walks out with Ryder.
Jill: God, the crap she puts up with from that guy. Anyway, were you just escorting him over or—
Jake: I have to talk to you. I need help.
Jill: Okay…
Jake: Well, first, do you have any candles?
Jill: Oh my God, are we having a
séance?
Jake: Wh—
She smiles.
Jake
cont’d:
No…they’re for…well, candles are romantic, right?
Jill: Sure. Trying to set a mood?
Jake nods. Jill gets it.
Jill: Oh my God. Come over here. Sit down.
Jake walks over to Jill’s bed and sits down. Jill sits in front of her.
Jill: What the hell is the matter
with you? I mean…you do mean to imply
that you and Ham are…I mean, you’re going to sleep together?
Jake nods, unsure.
Jill
cont’d:
Okay…is he like over there waiting for the candles?
Jake: No, it’s not…we’re
not…until eight. Tuesday at eight.
Jill: Oh my God, is it on your
calendar?
Jake laughs softly. She looks around.
Jill: Okay, why do you look like
you’re going to puke?
Jake: Because I am.
Jill: Well, yeah, sounds like
you’re definitely ready for this. Can I
just…ask you something? After our
conversation the other day…I mean, did talking about it lead to doing
it?
Jake: Well, we never actually got
around to talking about it. We just
kind of…set the date.
Jill: You were like, “let’s talk about sex” and he was like “why talk when we can do it on Tuesday?”
Jake: Kind of the opposite. But, that’s not important because in about…
She looks at her watch.
Jake
cont’d: Oh
my God, in about three hours I’m no longer going to be a virgin. And I need candles and…romantic stuff.
Jill: Calm down.
Jake gets up.
Jake: I can’t.
Jill smiles.
Jill: Okay…I think I have some
candles. What are you going to wear?
Jake: Wear?
Jill: Maybe you should
just…cancel.
Jake: What? Why?
Jill: Because, Jacqueline…you’re obviously
not ready for this.
Jake: Well, then I have…less than
three hours to get ready. I need
you.
Jill looks up at a nervous Jake.
(cut to): Gwen and Ryder walking together outside, somewhere near Rawley Girls.’
Ryder: So, I decided to stay.
Gwen: I see that. What changed your mind?
Ryder: A couple things, but none
that mattered because…I probably wouldn’t have been able to abandon you here
anyway…with all these pathetic losers.
Ryder looks around.
Gwen: Jill thinks you don’t
respect me…
Ryder: And do you agree?
Gwen: Honestly, I don’t think you
respect anyone…including yourself.
And, I know you hate when I lecture you like this, but—
Ryder: You’re right…I do hate it.
Gwen looks down.
Ryder
cont’d:
And, you’re right…about the other stuff too.
She
looks back up at him.
Ryder: But, I’m sorry to say that,
right now, things aren’t going to change.
I’m too close to being out of here to try and do things
differently. I was looking for a fresh
start last week, but…I’ll wait until after graduation.
Gwen: Do you want to talk
anything?
Ryder smiles.
Ryder: No, I think I’ll just
internalize it as usual.
(cut to): a shot behind them as they walk off together.
Gwen: That’s why you’re so mean
to everyone…
Ryder: Hey, I’m not mean to
you…usually…
Gwen: That’s because you know I
could kick your ass…
Ryder: Oh…I know…
(cut to): Scout and Bella at Friendly’s. Scout is behind the counter and Bella is sitting on a stool. They’ve been talking.
Bella: Did he say what he was
doing this afternoon?
Scout: No…it just sounded like he
wanted to avoid his dad.
Bella: Oh, God…it’s Tuesday?
Scout: Yeah, why?
Bella: Well, that’s the day his
dad is coming back to find out what Will decided about the money.
Scout: Money?
Bella: I thought he told you.
Scout: Told me what? He told me to tell his dad the answer was
no, but…he didn’t say what the question was.
His dad asked him for money?
That’s terrible. Will’s just a
kid.
Bella: He said no?
Scout: Well, of course he
did. I cannot believe his dad—
Bella: Well, Scout, it’s not like
he was going to use the money to go out drinking and gambling…it’s for their
house payment.
Scout: So, you think he should
just hand over…how much money?
Bella: Three thousand dollars.
Scout:
That would
practically wipe him out…
Bella: I’m not saying he made the
wrong decision. That was my reaction
when he told me too: tell him no way and get lost, but I know he thought it
through…he even talked to his mom who told him he had every right to say
no. I was just pointing out that when
he gets here…just don’t be harsh, ok?
Scout: But—
The bell rings. Will’s dad enters.
Brian: ‘Will around?
Scout: No, sir. He told me to tell you that his answer is no
and that he has his own future to think about.
Brian: Oh, did he? Couldn’t deliver his own message like a
man? Well, you tell him something for
me son…you tell him he can go straight to—
Scout: I don’t think I’m going to
do that, sir. Like you said, a
man delivers his own messages.
Bella: Scout—
Brian: I don’t think Will would like that very much.
He gives Scout one more evil glare before exiting.
Scout: God, that guy is a jerk.
Bella: He’s just trapped, Scout.
Scout looks at Bella as she watches the door.
Scout: Bella…you’re not going to
end up like that.
She looks back at him.
Scout
cont’d: I
mean…Will wouldn’t let that happen, okay?
Bella looks down.
Scout
cont’d: You
wouldn’t let that happen.
She smiles at him.
Bella: Thanks, Scout. Now, is my burger up yet?
Scout turns around and grabs the bag ready to go. He hands it to her. She takes it and leans over, kissing him on the cheek.
Bella: Thanks. And, have fun tonight. It’ll go great. Your mom’s going to love her.
Scout: Thanks. Bye, Bella.
She
exits. He watches her for a moment,
then starts to wipe off the counters.
(fade
out)
(fade in): to Hamilton as he walks across the quad toward. Scout comes jogging by.
Music: Sugar Buzz
Hamilton: Scout—
Scout: Just come by in like 20
minutes, okay? I’m in a hurry. I have to talk to Will, grab a shower and
get dressed.
Hamilton: Okay, I’ll see you in a
few.
(cut to): Jake’s room. Jill is there is a black dress. He hair is pulled up. She’s putting on a necklace. She turns around to Jake who is sitting on her bed. Jake is wearing pajamas. Like a pajama set…practically plaid and flannel. It’s far from sexy.
Jake: You look really great.
Jill: Thanks…you look…why are you
wearing that again?
Jake: What? It’s pajamas. It implies bed. It’s
perfect.
Jill: It’s not very…sexy.
Jake: So what? I think he’s kind of a sure thing.
Jill laughs then sits down next to her.
Jill: You know you can tell him
you don’t want to go through with it.
Jake: But, I do want to go
through with it. I’m ready for this…I
have been for a long time. There’s
nothing I want more.
Jill: Okay, but Jacqueline,
if you even knew how much that just sounded like you were trying to convince
yourself. It’s written all over your
face…it’s in your voice…and your choice of wardrobe…you’re not
ready. And you look scared as hell.
Jake: You didn’t see Hamilton…
(cut to): Hamilton in his room. He has on shorts and a t-shirt as he looks in the mirror. He still looks as nervous as ever. He pulls off the shirt and tosses it on the bed where there are several other shirts and pairs of pants. Pulling off the shirt ruffled his hair. He pushes it back off his face.
Hamilton: Get it together, Ham. You’ve gotta get it together.
He opens his closet and pulls out a white button-up shirt and a pair of black pants.
Hamilton: Perfect.
There’s a knock at his door.
Hamilton: Come in.
His dad opens the door and steps in. Hamilton tosses the pants on the bed and puts on the shirt.
Steven: I just wanted you to know
that your mom and I are leaving for dinner now.
Hamilton: Great. Have fun.
Steven looks at the clothes on the bed then back at Ham as he continues to button his shirt.
Steven: Going somewhere?
Hamilton: Not really. Just over to the dorms…to study.
Steven looks like he wants to ask more, but doesn’t.
Hamilton
cont’d:
Dad…I’m really happy for you and mom…and all the work you’ve put into making
everything all right again.
Steven: Thank you, son. That means a lot, especially tonight.
Hamilton: That’s right…Happy
Anniversary, by the way.
Steven smiles.
Steven: Good luck with the studying. I hope all goes well.
Ham laughs.
Hamilton: Thanks, Dad.
Steven: One day you’ll talk to me?
Hamilton: Dad—
Steven: I know you don’t tell me everything and I respect that, but…one day you will, right?
Hamilton nods.
Steven smiles then walks out.
(cut to): Will and Scout’s room. Will is sitting as his desk with a few books opened. Scout is still looking around the room. He’s dressed in gray slacks, a black shirt and a tie.
Will: So, she seriously said it
was okay to close early?
Scout: Yeah. She said the likelihood of any other
customers coming in was pretty slim.
Will: Well, cool…I can get some
extra studying done.
Scout: Maybe you should go see
Bella.
Will gives him a weird look.
Scout
cont’d: Now
that you’ve got a little extra time…maybe you should spend it with her.
Scout goes through each of his drawers.
Will: Since when are you so
concerned with—
Scout: Look, Will…I’m not going to
fight with you, okay? Not about
Bella. All that is water under
the bridge. But…she was worried about
you Will and…after your dad came in—
Will: He did come in, then? Did you tell him? How’d he take it?
Scout: Well, he was mad and he
left. Then Bella started defending him.
Will: What?
Scout: And talked about being stuck…in New Rawley. I just…I think it would be nice if you went and talked to her.
Will nods.
Hamilton walks in the opened door. Scout and Will look over. Hamilton has on the outfit he picket out before. Black pants and a white, button-up shirt. The shirt is un-tucked and the cuffs aren’t buttoned…but it looks good that way.
Scout: Give me five more minutes
okay?
Hamilton: Sure, I’ll be right
back. But…I’m kind of working on a time
line here so—
Scout: Five minutes…
Hamilton: Okay…okay…I’ll come back.
Hamilton walks on down the hall. Will and Scout smile at each other and shake their heads.
(cut to): Scout as he bends down to the bottom drawer of his dresser and looks under some of the clothes. He pulls out the box.
Scout: Bingo.
He opens the box and pulls several condoms and sticks them back in his drawer. Will watches him.
Will: Look, man…thanks for the
advice…about Bella.
Scout
nods. Then runs over to the door with
the intention of catching up to Hamilton.
Scout
runs out the door.
Scout: Hey I found the—
(cut to): a shot outside in the hall. Scout almost runs into a woman as he cuts off his sentence. He’s got the box in his hand. She looks at the box then at Scout. Jill sticks her head out Jake’s door. She sees the woman and runs over. Mrs. Calhoun would be played by Mary Kay Place.
Jill: You must be—
The woman turns slightly to see Jill come up. Jill stops when she sees Scout and the look on his face.
Mrs.
Calhoun:
I’m Cindy Calhoun.
Jill: Jill Thomas…
Scout is still standing there with the box. Jill looks over at him like “what the hell are you doing?”
Scout: I…These are for—
Cindy: Uh…I think we know what
those are for, dear.
Scout: Mom—
Greg walks up.
Greg: Hey, the party is starting
without me.
He sticks out his hand to Scout’s mom.
Greg
cont’d: I’m
Greg Thomas. You must be—
He looks over at Scout. Scout finally snaps out of it and tosses the box back into the room.
(cut
to): inside the room. Will sits on the
bed as the box comes flying in and hits the floor. He listens but doesn’t make any effort to go out in the hall.
(cut to): the hall.
Greg: Okay so…who’s ready to go?
Scout: I am.
Jill: Yeah…let’s go.
Greg escorts Cindy down the hall; Jill and Scout follow. Jill and Scout look at one another. Scout looks a little worried. Hamilton comes around the corner. He looks over at Scout questioningly. Scout nods back to the room.
(cut to): Will picking up the box of condoms. A couple fall out on the floor. Will looks at them for a moment before picking them up. He takes his wallet out and puts one inside. Just as he gets his wallet in his pocket, Hamilton walks in. He looks as scared as ever.
Will: Ham. Hey.
Hamilton: Hey…
Will hands him the box. He takes out a few and puts them in his pocket. He hands the box back to Will.
Hamilton
cont’d:
Thanks.
He takes a deep breath and looks over his shoulder at the door. He looks over at the alarm clock by Will’s bed. It reads 7:59.
Hamilton cont’d: Well, guess I should do this.
Will: Have fun.
Ham hesitates for a minute.
Hamilton: I can’t do this. I can’t do this.
He sits down on Scout’s bed.
Hamilton
cont’d: I
can’t, Will. I don’t even know where to
begin.
Will: You could start by
breathing.
Hamilton: I don’t even know how
things got here, you know? My shrink
wanted me to talk to my girlfriend about sex…and now, all of the sudden, we’re having
it. How did this happen?
Will: Maybe you should just tell
her you don’t want to do it.
Hamilton: But, I want to—
Will: Then maybe you should tell
her that you’re not ready because, man, you’re obviously not.
Hamilton: I don’t think that’s the
problem.
Will: Well…maybe you’re talking
to the wrong person.
Hamilton looks at him, nodding.
(cut to): Jake’s room. The candles are lit. Jake is sitting on the edge of the bed. There is a knock. Jake gets up and opens the door a little. Ham sticks his head in. He smiles when he sees her.
Music: Hurry Up and Wait by Stereophonics
Hamilton: It is eight, right?
She looks down at the outfit, but doesn’t really get
it. He steps inside quickly and locks
the door behind him. He looks around,
noticing the candles.
Hamilton
cont’d: Now
I see why you wanted the candles.
They’re nice.
Jake: Yeah…I thought there was
probably a rule against candles in the dorms, but I figured it was worth the
risk.
They
both laugh awkwardly. There’s a
beat. Jake looks down for a moment and
Hamilton steps toward her. He leans
toward her and kisses her. She takes
his hand and leads him over to the bed.
They stand there for a moment.
Hamilton looks down at the bed, then back at Jake. They both look incredibly innocent. That’s important. They’ve kissed or made-out a million times, but this is different
and they realize it. Hamilton leans
toward her to kiss her again. As he
does, Jake starts to un-button her shirt.
When they part, he watches her for a second, unsure of what to do.
Jake: What?
Hamilton: I just…I feel like such an idiot. I mean, you’re standing there all beautiful in your…flannel pajamas…like expecting me to know what to do and…I just don’t.
Jake smiles at him. He looks down.
Jake: Can I just say that…I love
you so much right now.
Hamilton: Why? I’m like this incompetent boyfriend who—
Jake: …has a girlfriend that
feels just as inept as you do.
Hamilton takes a seat on the bed.
Jake: You know, when you asked me
to talk about this the other day…well, we never did do much talking about it.
Hamilton: No…no, we didn’t.
Hamilton
cont’d:
Want to now?
Jake: I think that might be a
good idea.
Jake sits down too.
Hamilton: Okay…well, Dr. Parker said
it sounded like out relationship was progressing and that if we were going to
have sex, then maybe I should talk to my dad. Then I said that we weren’t having sex and that we really didn’t
talk about it. And I kind of had this
idea that the reason we don’t is because—
Jake: We’d realize that there’s
really no reason why we aren’t having it.
Hamilton looks at her, surprised.
Hamilton: Exactly.
Jake: I came to the same conclusion the other day.
Hamilton: Well…but…if there’s no
reason why we aren’t having it then why does—
Jake: This feel so wrong?
Hamilton: Yeah…
He looks down.
Jake: Maybe if we figure out what
the problem is…what the reason is…then maybe we can fix it and…move on.
Hamilton: You mean, figure out why we
shouldn’t have sex…so we can.
Jake: Something like that.
Hamilton smiles.
Hamilton: I’m game.
(fade out)
(fade in): to an establishing shot of a familiar street in Carson. Where the restaurant Scout and Jill got caught being out past curfew is.
Music: Half the
Chance by Dezeray’s Hammer
(cut to): Inside the restaurant. Finn and Johanna are being seated.
Johanna: I’m really glad you called.
Finn: Me too.
Johanna: And came by the other day
and met Meagan. That meant a lot to
her. She’s staying with a friend
tonight, by the way. She was pretty excited
about getting to do that on a school night.
Finn: She’s an amazing girl. Kind of like her mom.
Johanna smiles.
Finn
cont’d: You know, it was Will who suggested I see
you again. I mean, not that I ever saw
you before. Well, you know, I saw
you, but…not in the dating sense of the word.
Johanna smiles.
Johanna: Do you think this
constitutes our first date?
Finn: I think that depends on how
it ends.
Johanna: …because I never planned on
dating you.
Finn: Nor I you.
Finn is sitting facing the door and he looks up as the Concierge escorts the Flemings into the restaurant. Finn holds the menu up conspicuously.
Johanna: What?
Finn peeks around the menu at her.
Finn: My boss and his wife.
Johanna turns around to see, then turns back to Finn.
Johanna: That’s her, huh?
Finn nods.
Johanna
cont’d:
She’s pretty.
Finn: She’s a lot of
things…including married…to that jerk-off.
And, here they come.
Finn puts the menu up again. The Concierge brings them past Finn’s table. And seats them at a nearby table, but not where they can easily notice Finn and Johanna..
Johanna: Well, well…aren’t you
adorable?
Finn: Of course…but, why now?
Johanna: You’re in love with her,
yet being with her is an impossibility.
Finn: Story of my life…
Johanna: It’s beautifully tragic.
Finn: And, oh, so Shakespearean. It’s a good thing I like the guy.
She watches Finn for a moment as he looks back at The Flemings table. They are leaning in talking. Finn leans back in his chair and looks back to Johanna.
Johanna: That night when we were…in
jail together and you told me about her…it was something hard for me to
resolve. The fact that you would be
with someone married…it just seems like a simple concept: be faithful. But…the way you looked at her just
now…there’s nothing simple about it.
Finn: I shouldn’t be doing this
to you…
Johanna: You shouldn’t be doing it
to yourself.
Finn: It’s something I should be
over by now but—
Johanna: You’re not. That’s okay. All prior flirting and coyness aside…I could really use a friend
right now too.
Finn looks a little surprised, but can’t help smile at her compassion. He looks up again as Scout, Jill, Greg and Cindy enter.
Finn: Is this the only
restaurant in a hundred mile radius of Rawley Academy?
(cut to): Scout, Jill, Greg and Cindy as they wait to be seated. No one is saying anything.
Jill
(whispered to Scout): Don’t worry, okay? It’s going to
be fine.
Scout smiles at her and takes her hand. They are led to their table. They walk past Finn. Scout nods, but doesn’t talk to him. They also pass the Dean who sees them and nods at Greg who has obviously talked to him about having the kids out past curfew. They stop and talk a moment. Greg introduces Cindy. Scout and Jill stand back and talk in whispers.
Scout: If they only knew what
they’re son was doing tonight.
Jill: Oh my gosh, you know about
that? Was Ham as freaked out as
Jacqueline?
Scout: Scared as hell.
Jill: Her too. Is that what the deal with those condoms was?
Scout
nods.
Jill: That just further
illustrates my “they are so not ready” argument.
Scout nods in agreement.
(cut to): Jake and Hamilton. They sit across from one another on the bed. Jake has a notebook in her hands.
Music: Unknown by
Lifehouse
Jake: Okay, so to re-cap. We have down all the reasons two people like
us should not have sex and now we have to figure out which ones apply
specifically to us. Then we’ll have a better
idea about why this is so difficult.
Hamilton: Okay…
Jake: First, “not being in
love…not understanding love.” That
seems kind of moot, but what do you think?
Hamilton: Well, not being in love is
not applicable, but the other part…well, of course we don’t understand
love. No one really does. It’s like the simplest thing to feel, but
the hardest thing to understand.
Jake: Do you think that feeling
like it’s simple reflects misunderstanding of it?
Hamilton: Do you love me?
Jake: Yes.
Hamilton: How do you know?
She tilts her head and tries to think of how to explain it.
Jake: I just do.
Hamilton: See…simple.
Jake
smiles.
Jake: Okay…second, “being too
young.”
Hamilton: Remember what Will
said? Being young doesn’t make you
wrong.
Jake: But…you didn’t agree with
him.
Hamilton: All the stuff I said that
day in class…some of it was kind of about us and I was really scared about
tonight and I didn’t know how to tell you.
But, it was kind of like this…just me throwing ideas out. I think Will was absolutely right and…I told
Dr. Parker before that saying we’re too young is stupid because…it’s us. I mean…unless you think—
Jake: I don’t. I think people our age are too young,
but…it’s just not a good enough reason with us…we’re kind of beyond that.
Hamilton nods.
Hamilton: What’s next?
Jake looks back down at the paper.
Jake: Okay, next is “not knowing
each other well enough or long enough.”
Hamilton: I think that’s kind of like
the age thing.
Jake: Yeah…like in general it
might be true, but when you look at the specific it just doesn’t make sense.
Jake looks down again.
Jake: Okay…religious
beliefs…waiting until you’re married…that kind of thing. We’re not really hung up on that, right?
Hamilton: The closest I’ve been to
church lately is watching an episode of Seventh Heaven…so…yeah, scratch that
one.
Jake: The list is dwindling fast.
Hamilton raises his eyebrows.
(cut to): the restaurant. The camera pans around past Ham’s parents who are enjoying an intimate dinner then past Finn and Johanna who are both laughing and seem to be having a good time. When the camera stops we see Jill, Scout, Greg and Cindy. No one is saying anything. Cindy breaks the silence:
Cindy: So, Mr. Thomas, you’re a
stage actor?
Greg: Yep…in about a month I’m
going on tour with a show. And, please,
call me Greg.
Cindy: So, you’re on the road a
lot?
Greg: Lately I have been.
Cindy: That must be difficult for
you, Jill.
Jill: Well, I used to go with him
everywhere, but…I decided it was time for me to settle down.
She laughs. Cindy smiles weakly.
Jill: I mean…it’s hard not seeing
my dad, but…everyone at Rawley is just dumped there by their parents…at least I
got to choose.
Scout looks at his mom then back at Jill.
Jill: Not that there’s anything
wrong with sending your kid to Rawley…
Greg: You’ll have to excuse my
daughter…she’s got a pretty chronic case of foot-in-mouth-disease.
Cindy laughs a little less guardedly.
Cindy: You should hear me at any
event with John…trying not to say the wrong thing to the wrong politician. Jill, if you and Scout remain an item…you’ll
know how I feel. He’s going to be the
fourth generation Calhoun to serve the United States senate.
Jill turns to Scout.
Jill: You are?
Scout: I—
Cindy: Well, you’ve only been
practicing since you were in diapers.
And it’s a solid career succession…law then politics.
Jill: Wow…I guess I never
realized how Dharma I am to your Greg.
Greg and Cindy look confused.
Scout: I don’t really know what
I want to do.
Cindy: I thought you always said
you wanted to be just like your father.
Scout: That was when I was like
eight, Mom. You know history and
government and anything like that have been my worst subjects
lately.
Cindy: So, you’ve got no career
aspirations?
Scout: I’ve been thinking a lot
about architecture lately.
Greg: Jill’s always planned on
doing art…if only as a secondary career.
Jill: Yeah…it probably wouldn’t
pay the bills, but I really enjoy it.
If I could be an artist—
Cindy: Artist…architect…these are
kind of lofty goals.
Jill
(sarcastic):
Well, like Dad said…artist is kind of the secondary career goal. Quantum physicist is first, of course.
Jill
tosses her napkin on the table and gets up.
Scout starts to get up.
Cindy: Why don’t I go?
Greg nods. She gets up and exits.
Scout: God, this is like my worst
nightmare. I just wanted them to like
each other.
Greg: They will.
Scout looks off.
Scout: I hope so.
A beat.
Greg: Are you sleeping with my
daughter?
Scout looks back at Greg.
Scout: No, Sir.
Greg looks at him for a moment, gauging his response.
Scout
cont’d:
Back at the dorms…I mean…those were for someone else.
Greg: Were they yours?
Scout hesitates.
Scout: …yes.
Greg: Are you planning on
sleeping with my daughter?
Scout: I don’t know how to answer
that.
Greg: I’d go with honestly…but I
always try to.
Scout: Well, then…the answer is “how could I not be?” She’s amazing.
Greg half smiles and nods.
Scout
cont’d: Not
any time soon or anything…just eventually.
Greg: You’re a good man, Scout.
Scout
smiles.
(cut to): the bathroom. Jill is
standing in front of the mirror. Cindy
walks in.
Cindy: I didn’t mean to offend
you.
Jill: Scout just wanted this to
go well. This is probably like his
worst nightmare. He wanted us to meet
and become like best friends…and I’m screwing this up. I should have just kept my big mouth shut.
Cindy: You obviously care about
him a lot.
Cindy walks up behind her.
Jill: You do too…I know.
Cindy: I don’t talk to him
enough. I never realized how grown-up
he’s become. I never even imagined that
my little boy would have a girlfriend who he’s…sleeping with.
Jill: Whoa… Scout and I are not
sleeping together.
Cindy: Oh…
Jill looks at their reflections in the mirror.
Jill: It kind of embarrasses me
to have to say the word “condom” in front of you…but…I think that was kind of a
misunderstanding. You know, a little
shtick to keep things interesting.
Cindy: I must be coming across as
so judgmental.
Jill: He’s your son…you’ve got
every right to be judgmental.
Cindy: What do you say we go out
there and try to start everything over?
Jill: Good plan.
They
exit.
(fade
out)
(fade in): to Gwen and Ryder. They’re in Ryder’s room.
Music: All for Me
by Dezeray’s Hammer
Gwen: So, you just haven’t been
going to English?
Ryder: Nope…and now I have to have
this play read by tomorrow. Not to
mention this work I have to do for the class.
Gwen: Well, I’m glad we hung out
some today. We haven’t done this in
awhile.
Ryder: I’m going to miss you next
year, Gwendolyn.
Gwen: You know, if you showed
everyone else even half of what you show me—
Ryder: It’s not going to
happen, my dear.
Gwen: Okay, but…they’d like
you. They would.
Ryder looks at her menacingly, but playfully.
Gwen
cont’d:
You’re still looking at me like you don’t know I could take you.
Ryder laughs.
Ryder: I’m not going to start
making nice with everyone before I leave.
It’s not worth it for me.
Gwen: Fine…want to gossip then?
Ryder: Always.
Gwen: Think Jill’s cheating on Scout with that Jake guy?
Ryder laughs.
Ryder: Hmm…where’s the video
camera when you need it? That’d be a
great flick.
Gwen doesn’t get it.
Ryder
cont’d: No,
I don’t think that is the case…I think Jake is hung up on Hamilton.
Gwen: Why don’t they just come
out?
Ryder: Why don’t they just do a
lot of things? They’re not the type to
make things easy.
Gwen still doesn’t really get it.
(cut to): to Jake and Ham. Same places as before. Still discussing why not to have sex although we missed a few reasons.
Music:
Waiting
by Green Day
Jake: Okay…oh, this is a good
one…consequences.
Hamilton: Every decision you make has
a consequence. When you decide to go left and not right, there is a
consequence.
Jake: Waxing philosophical aside…
Hamilton pulls out the condom from his pocket. He looks at the package.
Hamilton: “If used properly, latex
condoms will help to reduce the risk of HIV infection and many other sexually
transmitted diseases. Also highly
effective against pregnancy.” It says highly
effective…that’s gotta mean like at least 90 percent. The odds would definitely be in our favor.
Jake: Be serious, Hamilton.
Hamilton looks at the condom and puts it back in his pocket. He looks back up at Jake.
Hamilton: Okay…maybe you’re stressed
about “the consequences” I don’t know.
Is that it? Because, yes, I
agree that it would be hard…
Jake: …but it’s not what’s
stopping you. Me either.
Hamilton: Maybe there isn’t a good
reason…
Jake: Hamilton…the fact that
we’re searching so hard for a reason seems like reason enough.
Hamilton
looks at her, acceptingly. He gets up
and starts to collect the stuff that he previously left on Jake’s desk.
Hamilton: I never even finished my
English homework…great.
Jake gets up and takes the opened play from him.
Jake: I haven’t even started.
Hamilton
cont’d: I
swear that guy thinks all we have time to do is sit around and—
Jake: “Do not swear at all;”
Hamilton looks up at her before he realizes she’s reading from the play. She smiles and continues:
Jake
cont’d:
“Or, if thou wilt, swear by thy gracious self,
Which is the god of my idolatry,
And I’ll believe thee.”
She points to the spot on the page and Ham read…poorly:
Hamilton: “If my heart’s dear love—“
Jake: “Well, do not swear: although I joy in thee,
I have no joy of this contract to-night;
It is too
rash, too unadvised, too sudden;
Too like the
lightning, which doth cease to be
Ere one can
say ‘It lightens.’ Sweet, good night!”
Hamilton: Interesting….
Jake: Yeah…
(cut to): Will as he knocks on Bella’s door.
Bella: Will?
Bella has opened her window and is calling down to him.
Will: Hey. Got a minute?
Bella: Yeah, sure…Grace and
Charlie went to a movie, but…I thought you might stop by so…I stayed behind.
Will: No one’s here?
Bella: Well…I am…and now you
are. I’ll be right down.
Will: No…that’s okay. I can just come up. I mean, if that’s okay.
Bella: Oh…well, yeah, sure. Come on up.
(cut to): Bella in her room, tidying up. Will enters.
Bella: I’m kind of a closet slob.
Will: I know.
Bella walks over to him and wraps her arms around his neck.
Bella: That is why I love
you, Will Krudski…you know about my disgusting habits and you don’t care.
Will: I love you too, Bella.
Bella: Will, you look…I don’t
know. Are you okay?
Will smiles.
Will: I am now.
Bella: Are you upset over the
stuff with your d—
Will: Bella…can we just not talk
right now?
Bella
looks at him seriously. He looks
genuinely upset. Bella doesn’t know
what to do so she kisses him. He kisses
her back, thankful that she didn’t press the issue.
(cut
to): Jake and Ham.
Jake: Does this suddenly
all seem very silly to you?
Hamilton: Scheduling sex…yeah…it’s
pretty funny…wasn’t this your idea?
Jake sits down on the bed. She’s still laughing.
Jake: Jill asked if it was on my calendar.
Hamilton: Scout asked if we put it in
our day planners.
Jake laughs some more.
Jake: We’ve got to be the biggest
dorks ever.
Hamilton: Yeah…we’re pretty lame.
Hamilton walks over and sits next to her.
Hamilton: I think the reason…this one
we’ve been searching for has nothing to do with what we were talking
about. And, us saying that stuff
doesn’t apply to us…I mean, we’re lying to ourselves. But…some of it never stops being true. No matter how long we wait, there are going
to be logical reasons to wait longer. I
think the problem here isn’t the logic…it’s the setup.
Jake: The scheduling?
Hamilton: Yeah…I mean, what
pressure…for both of us. Be there at
eight on Tuesday and be ready to go…make sure you round the candles and the
condoms beforehand.
Jake
laughs.
Jake: Well, this definitely
doesn’t belong in the “wait until your wedding night” argument.
Hamilton smiles.
Jake
cont’d:
So…what is the reason?
Hamilton: It just doesn’t feel right.
Jake: That’s not a reason.
Hamilton: Sure it is. It’s like being in love…like I said before…I
can list all the things I love about you, but, when it comes down to why…I
just do. It’s like faith…blind faith…in
love.
Jake: And sex is the same?
Hamilton: I don’t ever want to have
sex with you.
Jake gives him a questioning look.
Hamilton: I want to make love to
you.
He pauses.
Hamilton
cont’d:
…And something like that…can’t be entered into a palm pilot…it can’t be on
Tuesday’s to-do list, you know? It’s
not something you can plan. The right
time for it is…whenever it is.
Ham gets back up and puts his stuff into his book
bag. He holds the play up to indicate
the lines from before.
Hamilton: And…I don’t care if, when
it happens, it’s “rash” or “sudden” or “ill-advised” because…
He walks over to her again. She stands up.
Hamilton: When it feels right…it will
be right. It’ll be perfect…and
beautiful. I know that…I’ve got
faith in that.
Jake nods.
Jake: Me too. As usual, you’ve managed to put into words
what you make me feel. And, I have to
say again that…I love you so much.
Hamilton: I love you too.
Jake: How do you know?
Hamilton smiles and kisses her. When they stop kissing, Hamilton steps back and turns around to finish packing up his stuff. Jake walks over to him and takes the play again, opening it to where it was dog-eared.
Jake: “O, wilt thou leave me so
unsatisfied?”
Hamilton takes the play from her and looks down at it.
Hamilton: Hey…that was Romeo’s line.
Jake grins.
Jake: Should I go change?
Hamilton: No.
They
both laugh.
Jake: Want to do this English
together, or what?
Hamilton: Definitely.
(dissolve): Finn and Johanna as they walk out of the restaurant together. They stop on the sidewalk.
Finn: Thank you. For a wonderful night…for listening to my
dismal diatribe…
Johanna laughs.
Johanna: No problem.
Finn: Want to go for a walk
before we get back in the car? Talk a
little more?
Johanna nods.
Johanna: That’d be nice.
(cut
to): the back of a limo. Scout, Jill,
Greg and Cindy sit there. Jill and
Cindy are talking.
Jill: …so then we ask Scout where
his cell phone is. He pulls it out of
his pocket. It’s fully charged. And he just kind of looks at me like “oops.”
Cindy: John is the same way. Oblivious to the obvious.
Scout
(to Greg):
Not exactly what I had in mind, but…they’re hitting it off.
Greg: I told you they would. Never underestimate the ability of women to bond over common interests like…bashing the men they love.
Jill: Hey…I heard that.
Cindy: As did I.
Greg chuckles.
Greg: We were the last people to
leave the restaurant because of the beginning of this story you’re telling
Jill…so, finish it.
Jill: We weren’t the last, but
anyway…
(cut to): The restaurant. Steve and Kate are still there. They’re the last people there. The waiters are lifting up chairs onto tables. They’re still talking and seem to be genuinely glad to be there together.
(cut
to): Jake and Hamilton. They are
sitting on Jake’s bed, working on English.
Hamilton: Oh, man…what time is? I bet my parents are going to be back soon.
Jake: Yeah, you should probably
get out of here before Finn comes by or something.
Hamilton: I’m sorry tonight went so…
badly.
Jake: It was awkward, but…not
bad.
Hamilton kisses her quickly. He hops up and puts his stuff into his backpack.
Hamilton: Night.
Jake: Night.
Ham exits.
(cut to): Will and Bella. Will is sitting on her bed as she folds clothes. He seems lost in thought. He snaps out of it and looks at Bella.
Will: Want some help?
Bella smiles.
Bella: …he asks as she folds the
last item.
Will: Sorry…I was…thinking.
Bella: About what?
Will: Picking up where we left
off before the timer on the dryer went off.
Bella: Oh…
She smiles and walks over to the bed.
He
takes her hand as she sits down and kisses him. He leans back. She
continues kissing him.
(fade out)
(fade in): to the classroom. English class has moved inside today.
Music: Dammit by Blink 182
Finn: So, have we all a little
more insight into the psyches or Romeo and Juliet?
Hamilton and Jake look at one another, smiling. Scout smiles to himself. Will isn’t there yet. Ryder is sitting in the back, reading the play. He makes no effort to talk to anyone…or bug anyone.
Finn: I’d like to assert that
this hasn’t classically been one of my favorite Shakespearean works, but…it’s
growing on me.
Will
opens the classroom door and comes in.
Finn nods as he takes his place, but continues talking.
(dissolve to): after class. Everyone gets up to go to lunch.
Scout: Where were you?
Will: I had to finish the
homework so after chemistry I—
Scout: I’m talking about last
night…you never came back to the room.
I was worried about you. Did
something happen with your dad?
Will: No, nothing like that. Sorry you were worried.
Will turns to go.
Scout: You’re not going to tell
me?
Will: I, uh…fell asleep at Bella’s.
Scout: Oh…
Will smiles.
Will: We were watching a movie,
man.
Will walks toward the door.
(cut to): a shot in front of Will with Scout watching
over his shoulder. He closes his eyes
and takes a deep breath.
Will
(voice over): Sometimes we forget to do the growing up that we need to do. We do things that we aren’t ready for. We regret it.
(cut to): a closer shot of Scout.
Will
(v.o.) cont’d: Sometimes, we take all the time we need.
(cut to): Jake and
Hamilton. They’re standing just outside
the classroom talking.
Hamilton: Oh man, I was still up when my mom and dad got home last night. It was scary.
Jake: How many years have they
been married?
Hamilton: Eighteen.
Ryder walks up.
Will
(v.o.) cont’d: And some of us take a muddled path to maturity.
Ryder: Um…Jake…Ham…look, I just
want you both two know that…I’m glad you found each other and…managed to
triumph under such adverse conditions.
Will
(v.o.) cont’d: …but we get there nonetheless.
Hamilton gives him a suspicious look.
Ryder: I’ll still continue to make
life miserable while I’m here…but it’s all in good fun.
He turns around and walks off. Ham and Jake look at each other.
(cut to): Finn as he looks through some of his papers.
Will
(v.o.) cont’d:
And the grown-ups we originally thought were pretty awesome…
(cut to): Jill, her dad, and Scout’s mom. They are having a picnic by the lake. A few minutes have past. Scout walks up.
Will
(v.o.) cont’d: …actually turn out to be that way.
(cut to): Bella. She’s in class at Edmund. Sean sits next to her.
Sean: You all right?
Bella nods.
(cut to): a closer shot of Bella.
Will
(v.o.) cont’d: Figuring it all out…making mistakes…that’s growing up, I guess. Sometimes it happens before you’re ready,
but…you can’t stop it.
Click
here to go home
Or
Click
here to
post comments