(fade
in): to a black screen adorned with a yellow post-it note. The note reads:
– W I L
L K R U D S K I
Slowly Bella’s version of “Wishing Heart” begins to play. As the music fades up the black screen and post-it note fade into a shot that is blurry yet distinctly taken through a video camera. “REC” pops up in a corner as the picture becomes a little clearer. We realize the camera is held by the driver of a car that is traveling down a two-lane highway somewhere. We get a shaky pan as the camera is placed on the dashboard. The picture loses focus again as a hand reaches for the camera in order to adjusts it so that it is pointing at the drivers’ seat. Auto focus kicks in to reveal the cameraman/driver: Nicholas Mann. He focuses on the road for a moment as a car passes in the other lane. He then smiles at the camera and clears his throat. As he speaks he watches the road, glancing occasionally at the camera.
Nicholas: Hey…I’m
Nick—Nicholas…Nicholas Mann…and this is chapter…uh…something like eighty-seven
of my video journal. A lot has happened
since chapter eighty-six. Currently,
I’m driving on highway…hmm…
He
looks out the window for signs of a road sign.
Nicholas
cont’d:
Highway something. I got directions
from a guy named Earl who was the owner of this old garage a few miles
back. I’ve always liked old-fashioned
gas stations…the people just seem more trust-worthy. Anyway, I’m digressing…oh, wait…hang on one second…this is my
favorite part.
He
reaches down and rewinds it a little letting us know it’s a tape. Once he has it where he wants it, he turns
up the volume. If we listen carefully
we realize it is a recording of when Bella sang the song New York. The song blasts as Nick sings along sounding
quite bad.
Nicholas
cont’d: I
was restless, I was restless, I was restless, I was restless. I just want this to be good, I just want
this to be good. And you don’t
understand—you don’t understand me, and I want to be understood…”
He
turns it down again, looking thoughtfully at the tape player.
Nicholas
cont’d: You
know how sometimes you hear a song and, at least for a little while, it becomes
your personal theme song? Somehow, it
manages to perfectly to articulate everything that you can’t. It sums up your present mood or it provides
a source of comfort when you really need it…or, and this, this is key…it
makes you realize that you really, really need to get the hell out of
New York.
He
smiles.
Nicholas
cont’d: In
other words, this is my current theme song.
He again glances at the tape player.
Nicholas
cont’d:
It’s funny, though, because the first time I heard it—well…that is a
whole other story. What’s important is
that I’ve finally, actually left New York.
He
looks back at the road.
Nicholas
cont’d:
Where am I going?
He
laughs.
Nicholas
cont’d:
Well, to be honest…I have no idea where I’ll end up, but I do know where
my first stop is: my sister. I think
we’re going to get along really well.
Oh, I guess I should mention that we’ve only met once, but we’ve spoken
on the phone several times lately. Her
name is Jacqueline and…
He
smiles thoughtfully.
Nicholas
cont’d: I
don’t know, she seems really amazing. I
can’t wait to see her again.
A
quick beat.
Nicholas
cont’d:
Other than hanging out with Jacqueline, I don’t have any specific plans. Generally, I’m looking for a way to do
something meaningful. It’d be nice to
find a role that really has an impact on people…I don’t know if such a part
even exists these days. But, that’s why
I left…to find out what’s out there. To
find out what’s beyond New York…beyond my father…and…his enormous shadow
because I have become so tired of living there.
He
shakes his head then tosses the camera a half smile.
Nicholas
cont’d:
Save it for therapy, right?
A
beat passes as he listens to the song again.
He glances at the camera again.
Nicholas
cont’d:
Thus my destination-free journey begins.
Welcome aboard.
He
smiles with a nod as if he’s accomplished the welcome he wants. He reaches for the camera. We momentarily see some white television
snow then:
(cut
to): black as the camera is turned off.
Opening Credits with
special guest star Eddie
Cahill as Nicholas Mann.
Commercial
Break: Dreaming of Nick by
Camisha. Read it now because it’s a
great lead in to the episode. And,
naturally, it’s marvelously-written.
When you’re done, email Camisha
and let her know what a great writer she is…maybe she’ll write some more New
Beginnings fic J.
(fade
in): to a shaky shot of the garage through Nicholas’ video camera. The “REC” indicator pops up and he zooms in
a little more.
Music: Lovely Day by Lit
Nicholas: So, here we are: New
Rawley…and…another old gas station.
He
quickly swings the video camera around to reveal himself looking rather
conflicted.
Nicholas
cont’d:
Once I go to this place, I’ll have a full tank of gas and, if there’s a nice
enough service attendant, directions to Rawley Academy…directions to
Jacqueline…to my sister. I think
she’ll be glad to see me, but…what if…what if she really hates me and I just
haven’t picked up on it? I’m beginning
to think I should have called ahead.
Auditions don’t make me this nervous…and I have horrible stage fright.
He
grins at the paradox then thinks of something.
Nicholas
cont’d: I
guess in a way, this is like an audition—an audition to be her brother. If she hates me then I’ll get back in my car
and drive away; if she likes me, I’ll hang out for a few days.
He
takes a deep breath.
Nicholas
cont’d:
God, this is stressful. I’m starting to
doubt this “no plans” plan. I could
definitely stand to encounter something I felt certain about.
He
glances up at the gas station.
Nicholas
cont’d: Oh
well…here goes nothing…
(cut
to): the office of the garage. Hamilton
sits on the desk while Bella sits in the chair holding Hamilton’s guitar.
Hamilton: See, it’s not that
hard. You already know like eight
chords.
The
bell rings indicating a new customer.
They look at each other, both reluctant to take it.
Bella: Just go…probably another
applicant.
Hamilton
stands and looks out the window.
Hamilton: Hmm…Jetta.
Bella: Case closed…it’s all yours.
Hamilton
reluctantly walks outside.
(cut
to): the pumps where the jetta is parked.
Hamilton looks at the car, trying to get a glimpse at the driver.
(cut
to): a shot from Hamilton’s point of view as we see Nicholas through the
windshield. He’s talking to, we assume,
the video camera.
(cut
to): Hamilton who has no idea what he’s doing beyond talking to himself. Hamilton shakes his head and approaches the
driver side window. He knocks
tentatively on the rolled-up window.
The window rolls down and Hamilton finds himself face-to-face with the
video camera.
(cut
to): a shot of Hamilton through the camera.
He looks impatient and slightly annoyed.
Hamilton: What’s with the camera, dude?
Nicholas: Oh…
(cut
to): Hamilton and Nicholas as Nicholas turns the camera down.
Nicholas
cont’d:
…sorry…video journal…I’ve been doing it since I was, like, ten.
Hamilton: Carrying a video camera
around with you?
Nicholas: Uh huh…
He
smiles as the questions registers.
Nicholas
cont’d: I
mostly just do it when something big is happening.
Hamilton
nods knowingly.
Hamilton: So, you are headed
up to Rawley Academy then?
Nicholas
is slightly taken about, but he smiles.
Nicholas: Yes, actually…how did you—
Hamilton: I wouldn’t take the camera
in when you meet the dean…
Hamilton
walks over to pump the gas.
Hamilton
cont’d:
…just a tip.
Nicholas
laughs which makes Hamilton smile. A
beat as Hamilton continues with the gas.
Nicholas: You know, I wasn’t waiting
around for you to do that. I mean, I’m
perfectly capable…
Hamilton
(with irony):
It’s not like there’s anything else I want to be doing right now.
Nicholas
picks up on the irony, but doesn’t say anything. Another beat passes as Hamilton looks him up and down.
Hamilton
cont’d:
So…what’s your subject?
Nicholas: I’m sorry?
Hamilton: History or drama?
Nicholas
tilts his head.
Nicholas: Drama, I guess…is that your
thing?
Hamilton’s
confused.
Hamilton: What?
Nicholas: Guessing college majors?
Hamilton: What? Oh…no…I just happen to know that history and
drama are the two openings.
Nicholas
doesn’t get it, but Hamilton doesn’t notice and doesn’t skip a beat.
Hamilton
cont’d: You
seem pretty cool so I’ll give you another tip…a more useful tip…the dean isn’t
looking for something like himself…he already tried that and it didn’t work
out. See, people think he wants them to
be really strict and they’ve been answering the questions all wrong.
Nicholas: Do people usually have to
go through such an intensive interview to visit a student there?
Hamilton
finishes with the gas.
Hamilton: Oh…I thought you were
applying for the live-in faculty position…I’m sorry.
Nicholas
smiles.
Nicholas: How do you know so
much about Rawley Academy?
Hamilton: I have the distinct honor
of attending it.
Nicholas: Ah…
Hamilton: Anyway, who are you going
to see? Maybe I know him.
Nicholas: Her name is
Jacqueline.
Hamilton’s
friendly disposition fades.
Hamilton: Jacqueline who?
Nicholas: Pratt…you know her?
Hamilton: Yeah, I do. Who are you?
His
tone is really defensive and Nicholas notices.
He tilts his head as he exams Hamilton a moment.
Nicholas: I am…a friend.
He
gauges Hamilton’s reaction which is clearly jealous.
Hamilton: What kind of friend? Friend from where?
Nicholas
tries not to laugh. He looks down then
back up with only the slightest of smiles.
Nicholas: Out on a limb here,
but…you’re Hamilton?
Hamilton’s
expression changes into a bewildered scowl.
He folds his arms and doesn’t say anything.
Nicholas
cont’d: You
are, aren’t you? It certainly
explains your dean knowledge.
Hamilton
still doesn’t speak and doesn’t like that Nicholas seems to be enjoying this
conversation. Nicholas checks the gas
pump, pulls out some money and hands it to Hamilton.
Nicholas: Keep the change.
He
gets into his car.
Nicholas
cont’d: I
better get going.
Hamilton’s
expression changes slightly as if he agrees.
Nicholas pauses a moment, hesitating, then looks back up at Hamilton.
Nicholas: Think you could give me
directions?
Nicholas
smiles hopefully.
Music:
Over Your
Head by the Marvelous 3
(cut
to): across the street at Friendly’s.
Jill and Sean walk up together.
Jill: I’m telling you: Nick at
Night…TV Land…all kids should watch that stuff. There’s nothing more moral than Mary Tyler Moore.
Sean: I always liked Gilligan’s
Island.
Jill: Do not get me
started on that show…they should have formed a tribal council and voted
Gilligan’s dumb ass off…then they could have easily gotten off that
stupid island.
Sean
laughs. Jill looks up as Hamilton walks
up to them. Jill checks out his
coveralls.
Jill: Hey, Goober.
He
looks at Sean who shrugs.
Jill: …the mechanic from The Andy
Griffith Show? Played by the late,
great Jim Neighbors.
Sean
and Hamilton look at each other again, still confused.
Jill
cont’d:
Come on…am I the only person who watches television?
Hamilton
remembers why he came over and ignores Jill’s question:
Hamilton: Who does Jake know in New
York?
Jill: Um…a lot of people?
Hamilton: Guys?
Jill: Yes, Hamilton.
Hamilton: Guys that drive…Jettas?
Jill
looks off down the road.
Jill: Was that cute Jetta guy
going to see her?
Sean: You had time to notice that
guy was cute from way over here while you were delivering that diatribe on how Gilligan’s
Island would have been better without Gilligan?
She
smiles at him.
Jill: I know…I’ve got skills.
Sean
laughs at her.
Hamilton: Hello…did you know
that guy?
Jill
shrugs.
Jill: I couldn’t really see him.
Hamilton: I can’t believe she has
some guy coming to see her and she didn’t tell me.
Jill: Or, and I think you’ll find
this crisis a little more pressing, that guy was going to see her and he
didn’t tell her.
Hamilton
gets it.
Hamilton: Okay, you’re right. I better go…
Before
they can say anything he runs back across the street. They look at each other, amused with him.
(cut
to): Finn and Johanna’s house, the living room. Finn is sitting on the couch looking through several floral and
decoration sample books that he has spread out on the coffee table. Johanna walks in talking on the phone.
Johanna: No, you listen to me. I don’t care what you have to do;
just make it happen.
Finn
looks up at her, startled, but amused.
She hangs up.
Finn: If people don’t like
Salmon, they can starve…or leave.
Johanna: The whole point of giving
them an option is to be able to give them what they choose.
Finn: And…
Johanna: And nothing.
She
sits down next to him and looks at the books.
Finn: And…you don’t like
Salmon.
Johanna: Well, it is my
wedding.
Finn: Yours, huh? You know, I personally like Salmon.
She
gives him a dirty looks, but he keeps going.
Finn
cont’d:
And, I’m not even a big fish fan…
He
looks over at her; she’s smiling.
Johanna: Did you call the florist
yet?
Finn: Um…
He
looks back at the books.
Finn
cont’d: I
haven’t picked out the flowers yet.
Johanna: I give you one simple task…
She’s
only half serious.
Johanna
cont’d:
Have it done by tomorrow, okay? They
need a week.
She’s
serious about this and he knows it. He
nods. She gets up and walks back toward
the kitchen, dialing the phone:
Johanna
cont’d: The
band needs directions…they’ve got a completely incompetent manager…
He
smiles shaking his head then looks back at the books.
(fade
out)
(fade
in): to a video shot of Rawley Academy School for Boys. The camera spins quickly and once again we
see Nicholas.
Music:
Something I
Call Personality by New Found Glory
Nicholas: Okay, change of plans…well,
not really since I didn’t have any to begin with, but…I’m making a stop here at
Rawley Boys’ first. See, while I was in
town, I met Jacqueline’s boyfriend, Hamilton, who’s father is the dean and he
thought I was applying for some live-in faculty position. I’m not entirely sure what’s required, but
as I was driving here (specifically not following Hamilton’s jealously-inspired
directions) I got to thinking about what it would mean to teach. It never occurred to me before, but…it could
be just the quote-unquote role I was looking for. When I get done here, I’m going to see my
sister. If the interview goes well and
if Jacqueline ends up wanting me to stick around then…well…I think you can see
where this could be going.
He
smiles.
Nicholas
cont’d:
Wish me luck.
He
turns the camera back to the school and zooms in on the dorms.
(cut
to): Jake’s room. She’s got headphones
on as she works on her laptop. Hamilton
walks in, still in his coveralls. She
doesn’t notice him as he walks over to her and pulls her headphones off. She looks up at him like he’s lost it.
Jake: If you wanted your Pete
Yorn CD back, all you had to do was—
Hamilton: Expecting company?
She
looks very puzzled as she takes the headphones all the way off.
Jake: No, but…it’s nice to see
you anyway.
He
scowls.
Hamilton: So, you know nothing about
the tall, good-looking, Jetta-driving New Yorker on his way to see you?
Jake: Nope…
Hamilton: He said he’s…a
friend.
Jake: A friend?
Hamilton: Your friend.
Jake: Hm…really? And…you said he was…cute?
She’s
teasing hi, but he doesn’t or doesn’t want to pick up on the sarcasm.
Hamilton: That is not the
point…well, it kind of is. I mean…why
is there some guy coming to see you?
Jake: I have no idea…
She
stands up, looking a little more worried.
Jake
cont’d:
None of my old friends know where I go to school…
Hamilton: Have a lot of old
friends? Old guy friends?
Jake
shrugs, then thinks of something.
Jake: How old was he? Our age?
Hamilton: I don’t know. Older, I guess. Twenty-three maybe. I
thought he was coming to apply for the live-in position…then he said something
about coming to see you. Oh, and,
he knew who I was. He was so smug about
it too…I just wanted to—
Jake: Hey…chill out, please. Jealous boyfriend lost its charm a long time
ago and I need you to help me figure out what to do.
Hamilton: We could push him into the
lake…whoever he is.
Jake: Nicholas…Mann.
A
look of understanding comes over Hamilton’s face.
Hamilton: Your half-brother?
She
nods.
Hamilton
cont’d:
Whoa.
She
nods again then gets up and walks over to her closet.
Hamilton: Well…in that case…he seemed
really cool, Jake.
Jake: Speaking of Jake…he said he
was going to see Jacqueline, right? At
Rawley Girls’?
She
pushes aside all her boy clothes to reveal a couple of dresses.
Hamilton: Yeah…
Jake
cont’d:
God, all I have left is dresses…oh well, guess I better hurry…
Hamilton: It’s okay…we still have
time.
Jake: What do you mean?
Hamilton: I gave him directions.
He
smiles proudly.
Jake: The wrong
directions?
Hamilton: No, they were right, but…he
should circle the lake four or five times on his way.
Jake: Well, at least your
threatened masculinity bought us an extra half hour.
Hamilton
smiles sarcastically as Jake starts to get undressed.
Music:
Soak
up the Sun by Sheryl Crow
(cut
to): the newspaper room. Will and Gwen
have a bunch of papers and notebooks spread out on the table. Dexter is at a computer. He glances up at them, wanting to get their
attention. Will is concentrating on the
paperwork, but Gwen looks at him with a smile.
He looks up at her and returns the smile, leaning in to kiss her. Dexter clears his throat and gets up.
Dexter: Uh…the front page is over
on this computer whenever you guys get time…
He’s
out the door before they can say anything.
(cut
to): a closer shot of them as they both look mildly embarrassed. On the table we can see what Will has been
studying: class syllabi, Will’s work schedule, the newspaper calendar and
various other schedules.
Will: All right…I’m
thinking…we’ve got this figured out…for the rest of this month anyway.
Gwen
looks carefully at the new calendar Will has drafted.
Gwen: Okay, so we have time
everyday for homework…that’s good.
Will: Define good.
He
leans in and kisses her neck as she continues to look at the calendar. A beat.
Will
cont’d: And
no time for extra credit…so don’t even think about it.
She
smiles, feigning disappointment. He
kisses her neck again.
Gwen: We have dinner together…
Will: Monday…Wednesday, Friday
and…
Gwen: Saturday…with a “formal”
date option on Sunday.
He
pauses to look at the calendar again.
She stands up behind him, leaning against him to look over his shoulder.
Gwen: We’ll also have to switch
things around a little when crew practice starts again.
Will
swallows as if he has an announcement to make.
Will: I’ve been thinking about
sitting out this season.
Gwen: Will, no…this will be your
senior season. I don’t want you to miss
out on that.
Will: I don’t want to miss out
on…you.
Gwen: I think that in twenty
years you might regret sitting out your last year of crew for some stupid girl.
Will: No way…I’d never remember
you as stupid.
He
looks back at her with a teasing smile.
She takes the opportunity to kiss him.
(cut
to): Friendly’s. Jill and Sean sit at a booth sharing some
fries.
Sean: You haven’t been hanging
out with him at all?
Jill: Nope…but, I’ll stop by and
deliver your message.
Sean: I mean, it’s cool with you
if he and I—
Jill: Go running…yeah, sure,
it’s—
She
pauses as she looks up at the door.
(cut
to): the door as Bella walks in looking frustrated.
(cut
to): the table where Sean already looks worried. Bella walks up to them.
Sean: What’s wrong?
Bella: Nothing devastating…I just
can’t find Hamilton.
Jill: He had official whiny
boyfriend business to attend to.
Jill
rolls her eyes and Bella smiles in agreement.
A beat. Sean watches Bella carefully
as she looks over Jill and the food, avoiding Sean.
Bella: Well, thanks…I’m going to
contemplate firing him.
She
starts to turn around.
Sean: Why don’t you…stay a
minute? I’ll buy you a Coke.
Bella: You always did know how to
make me an offer I couldn’t refuse.
He
smiles and flags down the waitress.
Bella sits down next to him. She
smiles nervously at Jill who forces a polite smile back. Sean glances from Bella to Jill. The waitress comes over and Sean orders the
Coke for Bella. When the waitress has
gone, Sean offers the basket of fries to Bella who takes a couple.
Bella: Thanks.
Sean
smiles, glad to have everything friendly between the three of them. Jill watches the scene between Bella and
Sean as if it inspires her.
(dissolve
to): Scout and Will’s room. Scout sits
on the couch. Jill sits on the edge of
his bed, looking annoyed.
Scout: Jill, no…absolutely
not.
Jill: Why?
Scout: Because…if Sean and Bella
wanted to be together…they would be together.
Jill: But—
Scout
sighs and stands up.
Scout: You’ve delivered Sean’s
message…now, you can go.
Jill: But…
She
stands up.
Jill
cont’d: …I
have a plan worked out and everything.
Scout
opens the door, but Jill ignores it.
Scout: I don’t care.
Jill: It’ll be fun…it’ll be like
old time.
He
looks down, swallowing then back up at her.
Scout: I don’t even know what that
means, okay, Jill?
She’s
not sure either.
Jill: Fine. You have to think about it. Fine.
Scout: No, I don’t. I’m not—
Jill: Don’t forget to call Sean.
Scout: Jill—
Jill: I’ll be in the art room
until late.
She
walks out. Scout looks after her not
sure what to think or feel.
(fade
out)
(fade
in): to a shot of the lake taken through, once again, Nicholas’ video
camera. The “REC” indicator pops up as
Nicholas zooms all the way to the other side of the lake, to Rawley Boys.’
Music:
Happy
by Lit
Nicholas
(off camera):
So, get this…the dean really liked me.
He said I was the quote “most promising” applicant he’d seen all day and
he asked me to come back tomorrow.
Nicholas
zooms back across the lake and then over to the Rawley Girls’ campus.
Nicholas
(off camera) cont’d: I don’t want Jacqueline to think I’m moving in on her life. I mean, I went to boarding school too and
the best part about it was that you didn’t have to be around your family…
Nicholas
sighs and turns the camera to himself again.
Nicholas
cont’d: The
scary thing is I’ve begun to fall in love with the idea of moving here. I know I keep saying I have no plan, but I
was really thinking I’d end up in Atlanta.
The theater scene there is pretty big, but it’s not as intense and
intimidating as New York.
He
glances up at the school.
Nicholas
cont’d:
Well, barring not getting hired, I don’t see why I can’t take this job. Even if Jacqueline and I end up hating each
other, she’d be on one side of the lake and I’d be on the other…what’s the big
deal?
He
smiles as if he’s decided then turns the camera back to the lake and starts to
zoom in on the boys’ school once again.
(cut
to): the newspaper room. Gwen and Will
are now looking at Dexter’s layout design.
Gwen sits in the chair making a few changes as Will stands behind
her. Hamilton runs in, slightly out of
breath.
Hamilton: Have you seen Jill? Is she still in town?
Gwen: I’m not sure.
Hamilton: Okay, well…let me borrow
your keys.
Gwen: What?
Hamilton: Jake/Jacqueline
crisis…please?
(cut
to): Rawley Girls’. Jake is sitting on
the curb of the parking lot wearing a dress…and her army jacket and converse
shoes (a la Kelly Osbourne). She’s
nervously looking around and tapping her feet.
As people walk by, she looks down, struggling not to make eye contact with
anyone. Nicholas’ Jetta drives through
the frame and pulls into a parking spot. Jake stands up.
(cut
to): the car as Nicholas gets out. Jake
walks up to him.
Jake: Nicholas…hi.
He
smiles when he sees her, but then looks confused.
Nicholas: Hey…
Jake
smiles, uncertain of what to do next.
Nicholas smiles reassuringly and steps toward her to hug her.
Music:
The Best is
Yet to Come Undone by Lit
Nicholas: It’s so great to see
you.
Jake: Yeah, you too.
They
part.
Nicholas: I thought I’d have a harder
time finding you.
Jake: Hamilton told me you were
coming—well, actually, he said it was a cute, tall, Jetta-driving New Yorker
so…I put two and two together…
Nick
grins.
Nicholas: It’s nice to know your
boyfriend finds me attractive.
Jake: More like…intimidating.
Nicholas
laughs then thinks of something.
Nicholas: Oh, hey, but, you know…I’m
not a New Yorker anymore.
Jake
tilts her head.
Nicholas
cont’d: I
left…for good…for now, I guess.
Jake: Sounds like you’ve got it
all figured out.
Nicholas
laughs again.
Nicholas: When I left, all I really
knew for sure was that I was leaving and…
He
smiles.
Nicholas
cont’d:
…that I wanted to see my sister.
She
smiles.
Nicholas
cont’d:
So…here I am.
He
tries to gauge her reaction.
Nicholas
cont’d:
Sorry I didn’t call first.
Jake: Oh…no…it’s fine.
He
raises his eyebrows.
Jake
cont’d:
Seriously, it’s great to see you.
She
hugs him this time causing him to look a little more at ease. When they part:
Nicholas: I brought you something.
He
leans over, reaching into the car.
Jake: You didn’t have to—
He
stands up and hands her a CD.
Jake: Pete Yorn: cool.
He
smiles, then opens up the cover for her.
She looks inside.
Jake: Oh, whoa…it’s signed: “To
Jacqueline. Be kind to the Freshmann…”
spelled with two n’s…cute…”love Pete.”
She
looks up at him.
Jake
cont’d:
Nicholas…thank you.
Nicholas: Not exactly a check for
twenty thousand dollars, but—
Jake: I love it.
She
doesn’t want to discuss checks or their father.
Jake
cont’d:
So’d you…have a nice drive?
He
nods.
Nicholas: Do you think maybe we could
go somewhere and talk?
Jake: Oh, well, funny story…my
keys…
She
looks up at the trail to Rawley Boys’.
Jake
cont’d:
…are hopefully making their way to us right now.
(cut
to): the trail. Hamilton has just
exited the woods and walks toward Jake and Nicholas. He holds up Gwen’s keys.
(cut
to): Nicholas and Jake as Hamilton walks up.
Hamilton: Sweetie…your keys.
Jake: Thanks.
She
smiles gratefully at Hamilton then turns to Nicholas.
Jake: I left them in his room.
A
beat as Jake looks from Nicholas to Hamilton.
Jake
cont’d: Oh
yeah…even though you two have already met…Nick this is Hamilton…Hamilton, Nick.
They
shake hands.
Jake
cont’d: Oh,
Hamilton, look at this.
She
holds the CD case opened as he checks out the autograph. He’s clearly impressed.
Hamilton: Guess this means you’re
finally going to give back my Pete Yorn CD, huh?
She
smirks.
Nicholas: Hamilton, thanks for your
advice earlier.
Hamilton: What? The directions? I’m really sorry about that…I didn’t know who you—
Nicholas: Not the directions…I
followed the signs.
Jake
and Hamilton look at each other, confused.
Nicholas
cont’d: No,
your advice about the interview…with the dean.
Hamilton: The job interview?
Nicholas
nods.
Nicholas: Yeah, I went in and told
him I’d heard about the position while passing through town.
Hamilton: Did you mention me?
Jake: Or me?
Nicholas: Nope…I didn’t want to have
to explain how I know either of you…since, you know…
Jake: We aren’t supposed to be
telling anyone…yeah…
Nicholas: Yeah…
He
looks down guiltily.
Hamilton: Did it seem like my dad
liked you?
Nicholas: I’m having my résumé faxed
tonight and he asked me to go back in tomorrow.
Hamilton
nods then glances at Jake as if this were bad news.
Jake: Well, Sweetheart,
Nicholas and I were going to hang out in my room for awhile.
Hamilton: Sounds—
Jake: Let me walk you back to the
trail.
Hamilton
looks mildly insulted, but waves amiably to Nick as Jake leads him away.
(cut
to): closer to the trail as they walk slowly.
Jake: You have to do something.
Hamilton: About what?
Jake: He can’t teach at
Rawley Boys’.
Hamilton: If my dad asked him to come
back…I mean, he’s practically hired.
And, uh…you two seem to be clicking.
Maybe it wouldn’t be such a bad thing—
Jake: Hamilton…I’ve only talked
to him half a dozen times. I don’t want
him to think…I mean…the Jake thing is really weird, don’t you think?
Hamilton: A little, I guess, but…so
what? We wouldn’t have to tell him
right away and, when he did find out…I don’t think he’d—
Jake: No.
Hamilton: Then…what do you want me to
do, Jacqueline?
Jake: Just take care of,
okay? Please?
He
sighs, but then nods.
Hamilton: I’ll try.
She
smiles pulling a smile out of him as well.
Jake: Thank you.
Hamilton: No problem…”Sweetheart.”
Jake: Hey, I only said it because
you did.
Hamilton: Technically, I said
“Sweetie.”
Jake: Whatever. I love you.
He
smiles and leans in to kiss her on the cheek, but looks up at Nicholas.
(cut
to): Nicholas who’s been watching, but now looks away.
Hamilton: You’re right…we definitely
need to get rid of your big brother.
She
smiles and kisses him gently as if to indicate it’s okay to kiss her in front
of her brother. Hamilton still looks a
little uncomfortable which amuses Jake.
Hamilton
cont’d: If
I’m not in my room…I’ll be at home talking to my dad…call me.
She
nods as he escapes into the woods.
Music:
My Friends
Over You by New Found Glory
(cut
to): a shot of a residential street in New Rawley. Scout and Sean as they run into frame then come to an abrupt at a
street sign.
Sean: Thanks for calling me.
Scout
nods.
Scout: Whenever we do this, we say
we should do it more often.
Sean: You’re still the only
person who can keep up.
Scout
laughs, still slightly out of breath.
Sean
cont’d: How
have you been?
Scout
shrugs.
Scout: Guess you heard about my
latest debacle.
Sean: Yeah. Still…rock concert on the roof…sounds cool.
Scout: Actually…it was.
Scout
smiles.
Scout
cont’d: I
probably wasn’t cut out for the R.A. thing anyway.
Sean
takes a knee to retie his shoe.
Scout
cont’d: I
heard you got re-elected.
Sean
nods, standing back up.
Sean: I’m thinking about trying
to get an internship in Boston this summer.
Scout: Not D.C.?
Sean: I have an aunt in
Boston. Free place to stay.
Scout: Well, I’ll find out if my
dad knows anyone—I mean, not to…
Sean: Thanks, that would be
really cool.
Scout
sighs, relieved. A beat.
Scout: So, you and Jill have been—
Sean: About that…it’s kind of why
I wanted to hang out.
Scout
looks at him suspiciously.
Sean cont’d: I mean, I’m
not going to stop hanging out with her, but…I’d sleep a little better
knowing that it wasn’t a big deal to you.
Scout: A big deal? To me?
Sean
nods.
Scout
cont’d: Of
course not. I think it’s great.
Sean
looks at him suspiciously.
Scout
cont’d:
Okay, that’s a slight exaggeration, but…put it this way, I haven’t been
losing any sleep over it.
Sean: Cool.
A
quick beat.
Scout: So, has she forced you to
watch Roswell?
Sean: Not yet, but she keeps
threatening to bring over her tapes.
Scout: She gets so worked up over
that show: Max and Liz and Max and Tess and—
Sean: Max.
Scout
laughs.
Scout: Her obsession…the whole
thing…it’s so…
Sean: Jill.
Scout
looks at him; Sean definitely gets her.
Scout: Yeah…
Sean: Yeah.
A
beat.
Sean
cont’d:
Race you to Friendly’s?
Scout
nods and then takes off. Sean follows.
(fade
out)
Commercial
Break: We’ve
got another fan fic filled commercial break.
Romeo and
Juliet by Marianna is sort of an alternate for the first episode of New
Beginnings…well, that’s how we like to think of it anyway J.
This is a good time to point out that if you want any fanfic featured as
a commercial break email us and
let us know about it.
(fade
in): to a video shot of the lake through an open set of blinds. The camera zooms out as the “REC” indicator
comes on the screen. The camera pans
around to Jake sitting uncomfortably on Gwen’s bed.
Music:
Silver
Lining by David Gray
Nicholas
(off camera):
Have anything to say?
Jake
thinks for a moment then shakes her head.
Nicholas
(off camera) cont’d: Not even…my brother is a total freak?
Jake
laughs.
Jake: It probably runs in the
family.
Nicholas
laughs then turns the camera dramatically as he checks out various items in the
room. He gets to the pictures Gwen put
up at the end of last school year.
Nicholas
(off camera):
Interesting…
Jake: What is?
Nicholas
turns the camera down.
(cut
to): a normal shot of the room.
Nicholas was facing away from Jake but has to turns to her to answer her
question.
Nicholas: I pictured your
room…differently.
Jake
tries not to smile.
Jake: How did you picture it?
Nicholas
shrugs as he looks around.
Nicholas: I don’t know….I guess
simple, but with an edge. Posters
instead of paintings…definitely wouldn’t have guessed purple bedspread…
He indicates Gwen’s purple comforter.
Nicholas cont’d: And…don’t you have a laptop?
He nods over to Gwen’s desk where her computer is set up.
Jake: Hamilton…borrowed it.
Nicholas
nods, takes another look around then takes a seat next to her on the bed.
Nicholas: You two seem very…serious.
Jake: I guess we kind of are.
Nicholas: Sounds like you’ve got
everything figured out.
Jake
laughs at the reference, but tries to speak seriously:
Jake: I think we’re beyond
“serious.”
Nicholas: Oh…
Jake: No…no, I don’t
mean…I just mean…
She
laughs awkwardly. Nicholas holds the
camera up again.
(cut
to): a shot of Jake through the video camera as “REC” pops up. Jake looks at him skeptically, but doesn’t
ask him to turn it off.
Jake
cont’d: Our
relationship has become such a huge part of…everything…my whole world. I don’t even know what I would do without him.
She
looks for how to sum this up:
Jake
cont’d: Basically, I love him.
She
looks down.
Jake
cont’d: And
I love how he makes me feel.
Nick
(off camera):
Which is how?
Jake
looks up again and lets the question linger a moment before answering:
Jake: …loved. He makes me feel more loved than anyone ever
has.
Nicholas
holds on her a moment then stops recording.
(cut
to): a normal shot again. Nicholas
holds the camera looking at it thoughtfully.
He looks up guiltily at her.
Nicholas: Jacqueline, I am so
sorry about my dad…our dad…whatever.
You deserve so much better.
Jake: If I do, you do.
Nicholas
shrugs.
Nicholas: I suppose that’s why I took
the money and ran.
Jake
looks at him suspiciously.
Jake: What money?
Nicholas: Don’t tell me he didn’t
give you the money. He said he did—
Jake: He wrote me a check.
Nicholas: Oh, okay…good. For a seconds I thought—
Jake: I didn’t cash it.
Nicholas: You didn’t cash a check for
twenty thousand dollars.
Jake: It was for ten thousand and
I’m not in the habit of accepting hush money.
Nicholas
gets it a little better now.
Nicholas: So, this is out of
principle?
Jake: Well…yeah…to make the point
that he can’t just—
Nicholas: Unless you burned the check
in front of him…he missed “the point.”
I’m sure he considers you “hushed.”
Jake: But, the reason I didn’t
take the money is not so that I can tell people. I have absolutely not desire to tell
everyone that he is my father.
Nicholas: And, he knows that,
Jacqueline. I mean, if he really
thought you’d “go public” with everything…he would have offered you more money.
Jake: Like…twenty thousand
dollars?
Nick
sighs. She’s giving him a very
displeased stare.
Nicholas: Please don’t look at me
like you’re disappointed in me…please?
She
looks down.
Nicholas
cont’d: I
really needed the money, okay? I needed
it to leave there…to get away from him…okay?
She
nods. A beat.
Nicholas
cont’d: He
really isn’t going to notice you didn’t cash the stupid check. He probably wouldn’t have noticed if you
wrote in an extra zero and cashed it.
Jake
looks up at him with a faint smile.
Jake: Is that what you did?
Nicholas
feigns being insulted.
Nicholas: Hey, come on. I’ve got a few principles of my own.
Jake: Too bad.
He
laughs.
Jake
cont’d:
Think he’d notice if I hacked into his account and left him bankrupt.
He
laughs, then tilts his head.
Nicholas: You could really do that?
She
shrugs as if it were nothing.
Nicholas: Remind me not to piss you
off.
She smirks
Music: The Great Houdini by New Found Glory
(cut
to): Friendly’s.
(cut
to): inside. Will is taking an order
from a couple at a booth. Scout and
Sean walk in looking quite weathered from their run. Will finishes with the table and walks over to them.
Will: Hey guys…Scout, you’re
late.
Scout: I know; we were running.
Will: Oh, great…
He
gives him the once over.
Will
cont’d:
…yeah, you should get lots of tips tonight.
Scout
laughs sarcastically.
Scout: I’m going to change.
Scout
walks toward the bathroom, pausing at the counter to pull a backpack out. When he’s gone, Will and Sean stand
awkwardly.
Will: How’ve you been?
Sean: Good. I got re-elected.
Will: I heard that. Congratulations.
A
beat.
Sean: I have to get home…you
know, for dinner.
Will
nods.
Sean
cont’d: It
was good to see you.
Will: You too…definitely.
Sean
sticks out his hand as he and Will do some handshake. Sean leans back to leave.
Once he’s gone, Will heads over to the counter to work on the order. Scout exits the bathroom, tosses his bag
down behind the counter and joins Will.
Scout: Where’s Sean?
Will: He headed home for dinner.
Scout: Oh.
A
beat.
Scout
cont’d:
Will, can I ask you a question.
Will
raises an eyebrow.
Will: Sure.
Scout: You and Sean have been
friends for a long time, right?
Will: Unless you’ve got a
doctor’s note saying you’ve recently developed amnesia, I don’t think I need to
answer that one.
Scout
sighs, realizing he’d better get to the point.
Scout: Right…so…you know how he
operates.
Will: Operates what?
Scout: …operates with girls.
Will
looks at him skeptically.
Scout
cont’d:
Like, with Bella, for example, he really worked that whole friend angle, right?
Will
(confused):
I guess, but—
Scout: Do you think that’s a
pattern with him?
Will: What?
Scout: Befriending girls to…hook
up.
Will
shakes his head to himself then addresses Scout:
Will: Is this about Jill?
Scout
(concerned):
Why, did he say something to you about her?
Will: No, but…he obviously said
something to you or you wouldn’t be nearly this concerned with how he picks up
girls.
Scout’s
busted. He turns away to wipe down the
counter.
Will cont’d: Except, that doesn’t make any
sense because we had a conversation about Jill and Sean hanging out and you
were totally cool with it.
Scout: If he wasn’t being so sneaky…
Scout
sighs.
Scout: I guess…I just never thought it would get to this
point. I never really thought there’d
be a time when I’d have to deal with the two of them hooking up.
Scout
really does seem upset. Will feels bad.
Will
cont’d:
Look…I don’t think he’s after her, but even if he does like her, he knows she’s
off limits…big time.
Scout
nods feeling much better about the situation.
Will
cont’d:
Besides, if he was interested, I’m sure he would make a point to talk to you
about it before he made a move.
Scout
forces a smiles, but looks slightly panicked at this last remark.
Music:
Things I’ll
Never Say by Avril Lavigne
(cut
to): the art room. Jill is alone
working on a painting. The door is
pushed open slightly as Scout sticks his head in. When he sees her, he enters.
Scout: Jill?
She
turns around.
Jill: Hey.
Scout: I’m in.
Jill: Huh?
Scout: Sean…Bella…your plan…I’m
in.
Jill: Really? Because, I was thinking maybe I was
imagining the whole thing between them—
Scout: No way…I mean, Bella and
Sean? Totally. I definitely see it.
Jill: God, seriously. He just looks at her like he wants to help
her…and protect her.
Scout: Yeah.
Jill
thinks of something.
Jill: Did he…say something to you
about her?
Scout
shrugs.
Jill: Come on, I thought we were
trading information now.
Scout: Are you going to tell me
the plan or not?
Jill
smiles mischievously.
(cut
to): Friendly’s. Will is sitting at the
counter re-organizing sugar packets.
Gwen walks in. He smiles when he
sees her. She looks down at his task.
Gwen: I can see you’re busy…
She
pretends as if she’s going to leave.
Will: It’s okay…I need a break
from my grueling work.
She
laughs as she sits on a stool next to him.
Will
cont’d: I
sent Scout home early so I’ve had, like, no help organizing the sugar.
A
beat as Will abandons the task and shoves the sugar packets back into the
holder.
Will
cont’d: Get
everything wrapped up with the paper?
She
nods.
Will
cont’d:
I’ve been trying to come up with additional ways to spend time with you.
She
smiles.
Will
cont’d:
I’ve yet to come up with anything that doesn’t involve a time machine.
Gwen: Well, you’re in luck
because I have an idea.
Will: Hit me.
Gwen: I could get a job—
Will: Yeah…that would free you
right up.
Gwen
cont’d: I
could get a job here.
Will: What? Gwen, no…I don’t want you working here.
Gwen: Thanks.
Will: I just mean that…you’re too
good to work here.
Gwen: If you didn’t work here
yourself, I’d call you an elitist snob, but—
Will: I do. Exactly.
I work here. This job is
for people like me, not for—
Gwen: Spoiled little rich kids
who can’t get their hands dirty?
Will: No—
Gwen: Besides, Scout works
here.
Will: You shouldn’t have to work
just so you can spend time with me.
Gwen: Well, I must admit…I have
ulterior motives.
Will
arches an eyebrow.
Gwen
cont’d:
You’re looking at a spoiled little rich girl who is soon to be a poor little
broke girl living in Chicago.
He
gets it.
Will: Do you want me to put in a
good word for you or will your résumé speak for itself?
She
laughs.
Gwen: You better put in lots
of good words for me; my résumé is mute.
He
laughs. She looks around at her future
place of employment.
(fade
out)
Commercial
Break: Are
you enjoying Nicholas so far? Want to
learn more about the actor who would play him?
Well, check out Cahill
net for a great, fairly comprehensive Eddie Cahill fansite. Think the owners of the site know he’s
landed the role of Nicholas Mann? J
Music: Caught in the Sun by Course
of Nature
(fade
in): to a moving shot of New Rawley taken through Nicholas’ video camera with
the “REC” indicator on. The camera
moves from right to left as it changes from Friendly’s to the garage across the
street. It doesn’t hold on either for
too long as things speed up and the camera is cut off.
(cut
to): a shot from the garage as a motorcycle, Jake’s motorcycle, speeds off.
(cut
to): the bench in front of the garage where Bella is sitting on the bench,
writing in a notebook. Grace walks out.
Grace: Was that my ride?
Bella
looks up.
Bella: Huh?
Grace
sighs and sits down next to Bella.
Grace: What are you doing out here
anyway?
Bella: I’m writing.
Grace
looks at her skeptically.
Grace: You know, you’re probably
not going to see your knight in shining armor cruising around New Rawley at
seven p.m. on a Thursday night.
Bella: What makes you think I’m sitting around waiting to be rescued by
some guy?
Grace: Because I’m your
sister…and…I read your poetry.
Grace
indicates the notebook Bella was writing in.
Bella: What?! Grace!
Grace: Chill out. You show that stuff to Hamilton, for
God’s sake. He might be a girl, but
he’s still not your sister.
Bella
looks off as a beat passes.
Bella: I guess you don’t think
there’s one perfect person for everyone, huh?
Grace: Oh, no…I always think
that…until I meet someone new.
Bella
laughs.
Bella: In a way, though, that’s
really what I want: not someone perfect, but…someone new…someone
different.
Grace: Well, duh…aside from
Hamilton, who doesn’t count anyway, you’ve already dated, like, every
guy you know.
Bella
rolls her eyes, but smiles.
Bella: Shut up.
A
beat as a car pulls up.
Grace: My ride.
Grace
gets up and starts to walk to the car, but turns to add one more thing:
Grace
cont’d:
Don’t sit out here too long, okay? I
highly doubt that “someone new” is going to be lurking around New Rawley after
dark.
Bella
nods.
(cut
to): the trees near the lake where Jake always stashes her bike. Nicholas emerges from the hiding spot
followed shortly thereafter by Jake. He
studies her for a moment.
Nicholas: You are…the coolest girl
ever.
She
laughs. She’s still wearing the same
outfit: dress with army jacket and converse shoes. It presents Jacqueline in a very genuine way…more so than we
usually get to see.
Jake: Questionable, but…thank
you.
Nicholas: Thank you. That was really fun.
Jake: You’re welcome.
She
smiles thoughtfully then looks out across the lake. An awkward beat.
Nicholas: About the money—
Jake: It’s okay; you needed it.
Nicholas: That’s what I wanted to
say…I didn’t really need it. I
mean, yes, I used it—put it toward my car, but…I have a trust fund. My mom’s dad set it up before he died.
Jake
looks at him curiously.
Nicholas
cont’d:
See, I’m not like you. I don’t really
care if taking the money means he gets to feel better about everything because
I’ve recently decided that I don’t care what he feels…about anything.
Jake
nods, but doesn’t fully approve.
Nicholas
cont’d:
Plus, I needed something to be “the last thing I took from him.”
Jake
raises her eyebrows.
Nicholas
cont’d: I
left New York to prove myself, Jacqueline.
Jake: You don’t have to prove
yourself to him.
Nicholas: And, I’m not trying
to.
She
narrows her eyes.
Nicholas
cont’d: I
want to prove to myself that I can succeed professionally. See, in New York, I always felt like I was
in his shadow and it made me feel so pressured every time I had an
audition. People always knew I was his
son and when I screwed up they always told him. No one ever bothered to tell him I’m a pretty decent actor,
though. And he never bothered to
find out for himself, either. He just
criticized me as if it were a given that I wouldn’t be capable of doing
anything well as he could. God, that
really used to bug me. I just wanted
him to notice my talents…notice me.
He
takes a deep breath.
Nicholas
cont’d:
Save it for therapy, right?
Jake
smiles.
Jake: It’s okay…I can definitely
relate.
She
doesn’t offer more. A beat as she looks
out at the lake.
Nicholas: Anyway, I also want to
prove to this cool girl that…I’m worthy of being her brother.
Jake
looks over at him, but he keeps his gaze on the lake.
Nicholas
cont’d:
And, I’m worried that she hates me.
Jake: She doesn’t.
He
looks over at her.
Nicholas: How does she feel about
this teaching job?
Jake: Honestly, she didn’t like
the idea.
He
nods.
Jake
cont’d:
But, then she spent some time with you and…
She
pauses as she looks down.
Jake
cont’d:
It’d be really nice to have you around.
He looks slightly surprised.
Nicholas: Plus, there’ll be a
whole lake between us if you do decide you hate me.
Jake smiles, knowing there will be no lake between
them.
Nicholas: I just…don’t want you to
feel like I’m forcing myself into you’re life.
Jake: You don’t have to
force…I’m letting you in.
He smiles.
Nicholas: Thank you.
She nods as they both continue to look out on the
lake.
Music: Recently Distressed by
Phantom Planet
(cut to): Finn and Johanna’s
house.
(cut to): the dining room
table. Finn, Meagan, and Johanna are eating dinner though Johanna is
concentrating more on an open planner on the table.
Finn (tentatively):
I ordered the flowers.
Johanna: Good. Thank you.
Meagan: Mom…my dress doesn’t
fit.
Johanna: What? Of course it does. We had it fitted two weeks ago.
Finn: She has been getting tall lately.
Johanna: I don’t care…the dress has
to fit. Mine
still fits even though I’ve been getting fat
lately.
Johanna, now seven months pregnant, indicates her
stomach.
Meagan: It’s not my fault it doesn’t fit.
Johanna: Have you tried it on
since we brought it home?
Meagan: Well…no…but…
Johanna shakes her head looking disapprovingly,
then back down at her planner. Meagan puts her fork down.
Meagan cont’d: …may I be
excused?
Finn glances at Johanna who doesn’t look up.
Finn: Go ahead.
She gets up and looks at Johanna.
Meagan: I’m sorry.
She walks away toward the stairs.
Finn: I know you’re stressed
out but that was kind of harsh, don’t you think?
Johanna: I’ll talk to her later.
Finn: Sooner might be better.
Johanna: Did you get a hold of
Eddie?
Finn avoids eye contact.
Finn: Yes, I did.
Johanna: And were you right? Can
he make it?
Finn: I was wrong: he can’t
make it.
He flinches, knowing what’s coming.
Johanna: I knew it. I don’t
suppose you have a backup plan?
Finn shrugs hoping to change the subject.
Johanna: Finn!
Finn: Darling, by this time
tomorrow, I will not only have a best man, but Meagan will have a dress that
fits and you will be a lot more calmer.
I promise.
Johanna does not look comforted.
(cut to): Hamilton’s house.
(cut to): the kitchen. Steven is cooking dinner as
Hamilton is sitting at the table pretending to do homework.
Hamilton: So, Dad, see anyone
promising today?
Steven chuckles.
Steven: Well, mostly, it was
more of the same. Older guys who seem
to want to enforce the rules even more than I do.
Hamilton: Hmm…so, no one you liked?
Steven: Actually, there was this
one guy. Nicolas Mann.
Hamilton grimaces.
Steven cont’d: I asked him to
come back tomorrow.
Hamilton: Is he old too?
Steven: No, he’s just out of
college…twenty-two.
Hamilton: Is he certified?
Steven: He is not but…neither is
half my staff…that’s the beauty of running a private school.
Hamilton: I guess he has a lot of
experience with teenagers, though, right?
Steven: Not exactly but…I was
thinking more along the lines of Finn.
Someone who is…for lack of a better word…cool.
Hamilton: Cool…Yeah, cool is good.
We probably won’t take advantage of him too much…especially if he’s teaching
something serious like history.
Steven: He was a theatre major.
Hamilton: Oh…well…drama is a
serious class too, I guess.
Steven: Do you really think the
students will take advantage of him?
Hamilton: Hmm…he’s never worked
with teenagers, he’s “cool,” meaning he probably won’t read the rule book, and
he’s teaching drama which, lets face it, isn’t a class people expect to have to
take seriously.
Steven sighs.
Steven: You do make some good
points.
He goes back to cooking dinner.
Steven cont’d: Too bad, though.
I really liked the kid.
Hamilton looks slightly guilty as he goes back to
pretending to do his homework.
(fade out)
Commercial Break: We
love Google. It’s great to find sites and pictures and it’s easy to use. If you’re familiar with the site, you’re
like, “duh…I already know Google is the best…what a wasted commercial break,”
but for those of you who are still using other search engines…stop…and use
Google from now on.
(fade in) to a recording shot of Rawley Academy taken from the quad and through Nicholas’
video camera. It’s the next morning..
Music: Twenty by Klinger
Nicholas (of camera): I’ve
got an appointment with the dean this afternoon.
He zooms in on a window.
Nicholas (of camera) cont’d:
The dean is probably in there right now checking out my résumé.
Nicholas turns the camera on himself and sets it at
his feet pointing up.
Nicholas cont’d: Getting this job
would be…huge. I’d get to hang out with Jacqueline…I’d get to make a
difference—well, it wouldn’t exactly be Dangerous Minds…
He smiles at the camera.
Nicholas cont’d: I guess the only
thing I forgot to consider is…location.
He glances around.
Nicholas cont’d: I mean, what’s a
little town like New Rawley have to offer?
He pauses.
Nicholas cont’d: On the other
hand, It’s really what I want…something new…something different.
He looks off for a moment, thinking.
Nicholas cont’d: P.S. Jacqueline
is terrific. She’s really cool, which I
got from our conversations on the phone, but she’s also incredibly sweet, which
is awesome. I couldn’t have asked for a
better sibling…that I didn’t know about until sixteen years after my unfaithful
father got some from the “insatiable” Monica Pratt, while cheating on my
wonderful mom. Well okay, she’s actually not that wonderful—save it for therapy
right?
(cut to): Hamilton and Dexter’s room as they get
ready for class. Hamilton is putting on
socks and shoes as Dexter buttons up a plaid shirt. There’s a knock at the door.
Jake walks in as Dexter quickly finishes buttoning his shirt.
Jake: Hamilton, I need to talk
to you.
Hamilton: What happened to you
last night? I was worried.
Jake: I got back late.
Hamilton finishes tying his shoes. He stands up to face Jake.
Hamilton: What do you want?
Jake: For you to tell me that
you didn’t talk to your dad last night.
Hamilton looks at her blankly.
(cut
to): a Rawley Academy classroom.
Everything is still pretty quiet since classes haven’t started yet. Jake and Hamilton are mid
conversation.
Hamilton: I can’t believe this.
Jake: I know, it’s just that
he’s so great.
Hamilton: I’ve been thinking that
you should probably get to know him better before you just…tell him
everything. And, besides, what do you
expect me to say to my dad? “Hey Dad,
you know that inexperienced, uncertified, under-qualified guy I convinced you
not to hire last night? Well could you
please hire him? Why would you do such
a thing? It’s quite simple. You know my girlfriend, who you don’t know
about? Well, she has a brother who
you’re not supposed to know about and he just happens to be that guy that I convinced
you not to hire, and she thinks he’s great.
So, clearly you should hire him.”
I don’t think he’s going to buy it, Jake.
Jake: Can you just try?
Please?
He looks at her, challenging her to convince him.
Jake: Sweetheart?
Hamilton smiles.
Hamilton: Okay. I’ll try.
Jake (gratefully):
Thank you.
They start to walk towards the door. Before they
get out the door:
Hamilton: You are so lucky that I
love you.
Jake: Yeah, and that you love
being called “sweetheart.“
Music: No Such Thing by John Mayer
(dissolve to): later in the day. Finn’s class.
There’s a mock outline on the board.
Finn talks wearily to the class. Everyone looks fairly bored.
Finn: Why do we make plans?
Dexter: To be prepared?
Finn: Okay, makes sense—
Hamilton: I don’t agree with that.
Finn: Why not?
Hamilton: People don’t make plans
“to be prepared,” they make plans to feel
prepared. It’s a false sense of
security, if you ask me.
Jake: You just have to be
flexible. Things change along the way but…
Will: …the big plan is still
the same?
Jake nods.
Will cont’d: I agree with that.
Finn: And what’s the “big
plan” for this class?
Scout: Learning about the lives
of—
Hamilton (sarcastically):
…the “superstars of literature.
Finn: Culminating in…your
final project, due at the end of the semester.
And in preparation you’re to write a proposal and outline by Monday.
Hamilton: That’ll only take all
weekend.
Finn: Certainly you didn’t have any plans.
Everyone laughs.
Finn cont’d: So outlining…
Finn turns to the board.
(dissolve to): the end of class. Everyone is
packing their belongings and leaving the classroom.
Finn: Will, got a minute?
Will: Uh…sure, what’s up?
The last student leaves.
Finn: What are your plans for
next weekend?
Will smiles.
Will: I’m going to a wedding.
Finn: Right, well…since you’re
going already…how about going as my best man?
Will wasn’t expecting that.
Will: Really?
Finn (desperately):
Please?
Will nods.
Will: Yeah, sure…of course,
Finn.
Finn smiles.
Finn: Good.
Will: How’s the, um, planning going?
Finn smiles again.
Finn: Depends on who you ask.
Will: Is Ms. Ryan really
stressed?
Finn: I think she wants
everything to be perfect, but it’s okay, we’ll get through it.
Will nods. A beat.
Finn: So how’s life?
Will: Gwen’s graduating early.
Finn: Good for her.
Will: Yep.
Finn: Bad for you?
Will: It’s okay. We’ve got a
plan…which involves me going to take her a Friendly’s application. So…I’ve gotta run.
Finn: A Rawley girl working at
a diner? Sounds like love.
Will smiles.
Will: See ya.
Music: Truffles by Wheatus
(dissolve to): after school, the hall in front the
dean’s office. Several chairs have been
set up. Nicholas sits alone in a chair. He’s wearing a tie and is fiddling with
it. Hamilton walks up and sits down.
Hamilton: Hey.
Nicholas: Hi, Hamilton.
Hamilton: You haven’t been in to
see him yet have you?
Nicholas: Not yet.
Hamilton: Good.
Nicholas doesn’t get it.
Hamilton cont’d: I just wanted to
tell you to do whatever you did yesterday because he really liked it.
Nicholas smiles.
Nicholas: Okay. Thanks.
A beat.
Hamilton looks at the office door.
Hamilton: You’re going to follow
through with this, right?
Nicholas: With the job?
Hamilton: No…yeah…with everything…
Hamilton looks at him now.
Hamilton: …with your sister.
Nicholas answers carefully.
Nicholas: Yes, I plan to “follow
through”…get to know her. I mean, so
far, I like her a whole lot and—
Hamilton: I love her and I don’t want to see her get
disappointed again.
Nicholas: Look, I’m not out to
disappoint anyone here.
Hamilton nods.
A beat. They hear dean approach
the door.
Hamilton: Hey, if my dad asks,
this is the first time we’ve met.
Nicholas, a bit confused by the advice, is about to
speak but the door to the dean’s office begins to open.
Hamilton: Dad. Hey.
Steven: Hamilton, what are you
doing here?
Hamilton: Oh, I just wanted to
make sure that it was okay if I ate in the dining hall instead of at home
tonight.
Steven: You’ve been eating in
the dining hall almost every night since you moved into the dorms.
Hamilton: Right, but…I just wanted
to make sure I wasn’t missing another one of your
meals.
Steven smiles.
Steven: Mom’s making Chicken
Cacciatore.
Hamilton looks momentarily disgusted.
Steven: Now, if you’ll excuse me
son. Mr. Mann…
Hamilton: Mann? Dad, this is Nick Mann?
Nicholas looks confused.
Hamilton cont’d: Can I talk to you
in your office?
(cut to) the office a few moments later.
Steven: Everything okay?
Hamilton: Yes, sir…except that I
think I was wrong last night…about Nick Mann.
Steven: What makes you say that?
Hamilton: I was just talking to
him and he seems really…
Hamilton hesitates…he doesn’t really think so:
Hamilton cont’d: …cool.
Steven
laughs.
Steven: I thought so too. Of course, everything you said last night was absolutely accurate. He doesn’t have the training or experience.
Hamilton: That’s so unfair,
though. Not giving him the job because
he doesn’t have experience. I mean, how
can he get experience if you don’t
give him a chance. And training? You could train him. You could be, like, his mentor and—
Steven: Okay, okay…hold on just a
second.
Hamilton: Yes, sir.
Hamilton
looks down, fearing he’s lost his case.
Steven: While I value your opinion
greatly…I was already planning to go with my instincts on this one.
Hamilton
looks up inquisitively.
Hamilton: You mean…you were going to
hire him anyway?
Steven
nods.
Steven: That was my plan.
Hamilton: Cool.
They both laugh.
(fade
out)
Commercial
Break: Nothing
says “I love you” like cheap fleece. OldNavy.com.
(fade
in): to a steady shot of Finn’s old
apartment taken through Nicholas’ video camera with the “REC” light on. Though all of Finn’s stuff is gone, the
apartment remains furnished. Nicholas pans steadily around to the couch. We
realize the camera is on a tripod as Nicholas walks from behind it and sits on
the couch.
Music:
My World by
Avril Lavigne
Nicholas: Dean Fleming offered me the
job. I’d like to make things dramatic and say that I’m thinking about it, but I
said yes practically before he hired me.
Nicholas
looks around the apartment.
Nicholas
cont’d:
This is where I’m going to live. I’ve
never lived completely alone before so…this should be fun. Oh yeah, and get this, I don’t even have to teach
until the summer session. Until then, I just have to supervise the dorms. The
Dean gave me the rule book, but suggested that I talk to some guy named Finn to
find out the best way to run things around here. I can’t seem to catch up with
him, though. Apparently he is planning
his wedding.
(cut
to): a dress shop in Carson.
(cut
to): inside. Finn sits son a chair watching as Meagan stands on a small stool
in her dress. A seamstress is working on her hem.
Finn: Now if Mom asks, they just
fixed the dress, okay?
Meagan: You think I’m going
to tell her we had to get a whole new one?
Finn
smiles, but Meagan still looks stressed out.
Meagan
cont’d:
I’ll be glad when this whole wedding is over and the baby is born and
everything is back to normal.
Finn: Define normal.
Meagan: Good point. I guess nothing will ever really be the
same.
Finn: But, we’re okay with that,
right?
Meagan
smiles.
Meagan: Yeah, we’re okay with that.
Finn: And as far as Mom, she just
wants everything to be perfect.
Meagan: Someone should tell her
that you can’t plan perfection, it just happens sometimes, and when it
does it’s like a fluke of nature, because the universe tends towards chaos.
Finn
laughs, impressed.
Finn: I’ll let you be the one to
relay that to her.
Meagan: Pass.
Finn
smiles as the seamstress finishes with the dress.
Music:
I Heard You
by Good Charlotte
(dissolve
to): Sean’s dining room. He and Jill
are sitting at the table doing homework.
Sean is reading from a textbook and Jill is doodling in the margin of
math homework. Jill looks up.
Jill: Sean?
Sean: Hang on, last paragraph.
She
taps her pencil as he finishes reading.
He looks up at her.
Sean
cont’d:
Okay.
Jill: Would you ever date a
Rawley girl?
He
raises his eyebrows, looking at her for a moment. He looks back down at his textbook and shrugs.
Sean: I…I don’ t know.
Jill: Okay, another question…kind
of related…kind of not.
Sean: Okay.
Jill: Would you let me set you up
with someone?
He
looks up at her again…he’s not sure.
Sean: Who?
Jill: It’s called a blind date,
Sean…I can’t tell you in advance.
Sean: Then…no way.
Jill: Come on, please?
He
smiles.
Sean: Okay.
She
half laughs at how easily convinced he way.
Jill: All right, then you’ve got
a date today at five p.m.
He
nods and tried to concentrate on his book again, but is obviously
uncomfortable.
Jill
cont’d:
It’s okay…you can ask me.
Sean: Ask you what?
Jill: If she’s hot.
Sean: Oh, I wasn’t going to—I
mean…
He sighs and plasters a cocky grin on his face.
Sean
cont’d: …I
trust your taste in chicks.
Jill
rolls her eyes and looks back at her homework.
Sean’s smile falters as he studies her for a moment then goes back to
his own work.
(cut
to): the garage. Bella is working on a
car.
(cut
to): a closer shot of Bella and the car.
Scout rides up on his bike.
Bella: Hi.
Scout
smiles. He watches her for a moment as
a beat passes.
Scout: You know, every time I stop
by…you’re all by yourself.
Bella: No one ever said the life
of the mechanic girl was a social one.
Scout: Still, you seem lonely.
She
looks at him suspiciously.
Bella: Just because I’m alone
doesn’t mean I’m lonely.
Scout: I don’t know why
you’re torturing yourself like this.
Unless it’s some weird song-writing technique: make yourself miserable
so you can—
Bella: Scout, have you lost
it?
He
smiles.
Scout: All right…you caught
me. I have a little proposition for
you.
Bella: A proposition for
me…
Scout: There’s this guy I want
to…set you up with.
Bella
rolls her eyes and walks to a toolbox to get another wrench.
Bella: No way. I don’t date Rawley guys.
Scout: Hm…must be a new rule.
She
rolls her eyes.
Bella: What’s wrong with him?
Scout: Nothing.
Bella: Then why does he need you
to set him up? Oh God, it’s not that
weird Dexter kid is it?
Scout
cont’d: No,
it’s not Dexter. And, this guy doesn’t need
me to set him up…I just happen to think you two would make a lovely couple.
Bella: Who is it?
Scout
shrugs.
Scout: Are you saying you’ll do
it?
Bella: Did it sound like I said
anything even remotely like “I’ll do it?”
I don’t think so.
Scout: Seriously, Bella…
Bella: This whole situation seems
really strange…what’s in it for you?
Scout: Nothing.
She
doesn’t buy it.
Scout
cont’d: I’m
your friend and I think you deserve a decent guy. It would make me happy to set you up with someone like that. That’s all I get out of it, okay?
She
tucks her hair behind her ear and looks back down at the car.
Scout
cont’d:
What’s the big deal? One date. Take a chance.
She
looks up at his last words.
Bella: Okay.
He
looks surprised.
Scout: Really?
Bella: Why not? Truth be told, I am tired of being
alone and I’m tired of waiting for Mr. Right to just pull into town and sweep
me off my feet so…yeah, I’ll do it.
Just tell me when and where.
Scout
smiles, pleased that she’s agreed.
Music:
How by Lisa
Loeb
(cut
to): Jake’s room. She and Hamilton lie
on Jake’s bed looking at the ceiling.
Hamilton: Ever since this guy pulled
into town…I knew something bad was going to happen.
Jake: And exactly what part of
what’s happening is bad?
Hamilton: I don’t know.
He
sighs.
Hamilton
cont’d: I
just don’t see why you’re going to tell him everything right away.
Jake: Yeah, you’re right…what was
I thinking? I should just give him
little clues until he finally puts it all together. It’ll be much more dramatic that way.
Hamilton: You could just tell him you
don’t want him around…he definitely won’t find out if he leaves.
Jake
closes her eyes.
Jake: He’s my brother;
stop acting jealous.
Hamilton: I’m not.
She
shakes her head in disbelief. He turns
to his side and props his head up with his hands.
Hamilton: Okay, yes…in general, I do
get jealous of anyone who gets more attention from you than I do.
Jake: Hamilton, that’s—
Hamilton: But, that’s not my problem
with this Nick guy.
Jake: “This Nick guy?” He’s a lot more than just some guy,
Hamilton.
Hamilton: See, that’s what bugs me,
right there: you trust him.
Jake: Yeah, I do. Why would you have a problem with that?
Hamilton: The more you trust
someone…the easier it is to get hurt.
She
considers this.
Hamilton
cont’d: I
mean, off the bat…I liked him too. On
the surface, he seems okay.
He
hesitates for a moment.
Hamilton: And, I know that compared
to your dad…and to your mom too, for that matter…he must really seem like…
He
searches for the words.
Jake: …what I’ve always
wanted.
Hamilton: Exactly.
He
leans closer to her and runs his thumb across her cheek, then cups her
face.
Hamilton: I just don’t want anyone to
be able to hurt you again. You don’t
deserve that…okay?
She
nods. Hamilton kisses her briefly.
Hamilton: I know protective
isn’t much better than jealous and possessive, but—
Jake: No…it’s better.
He
smiles. A beat as they look at one
another, each comforted.
Hamilton: So…you’re in the perfect
position to reward me for convincing my dad to hire Nick Mann.
Jake: I thought you said he was
going to hire him anyway.
Hamilton: I don’t know what you’re
talking about. It’s time to pay up for
services rendered. You’re going to need
to remove some of your clothes.
Jake: Perverted doesn’t beat
protective or possessive.
He
laughs and rolls back on his back.
Hamilton: Hey, it was worth a shot.
Music: Gilligan’s Island Theme by
Less Than Jake
(cut
to): Friendly’s. Gwen is behind the
counter. Will is wiping off a booth
table. The only “customers” are Jill
and Scout who sit at a booth together.
Jill: You are such a
freak. How can you think he’d even have
a shot?
Scout: Well, they definitely would
have voted the Howells off before him.
Will,
at the booth behind them, looks over.
Will: I always liked Gilligan.
Scout
gestures at Will as if he just provided evidence for his argument.
Scout: Thank you.
Will
pats him on the shoulder.
Will: No problem, little buddy.
Jill
laughs. Will smiles at Jill then heads
over to the counter to talk to Gwen.
The bell on the door rings causing everyone to look up at the door.
(cut
to): the door as Nicholas walks in and
looks around then glances at his watch.
He turns around and walks out again.
(cut
to): everyone else. Will and Gwen look
at each other and shrug.
Jill: Oh my, God.
Scout: What?
Jill: The guy in the Jetta…
Scout: Huh?
Jill: Nothing…nevermind…weren’t
we planning a blind date?
Scout
looks out the door, but then looks back at Jill so they can finish the
Bella/Sean setup.
(fade
out)
Commercial
Break: What
could be cooler than a seventeen year old punk rawk chick? Exactly.
That’s why Avril Lavigne rawks.
Check out her site and buy her CD.
(fade
in): to an establishing shot of the garage, taken through Nicholas’ video
camera from across the street. The
“REC” light comes on. He quickly spins
the camera on himself.
Music:
Walk By by
Good Charlotte
Nicholas: Jacqueline wanted to meet
me here for dinner, but I’m early. She
said there was something she wanted to tell me. I’m hoping it doesn’t involve Hamilton. He seriously doesn’t trust me…which I can deal with, but it’s
sort of a weird situation to be coming into.
I’m the big brother, right? I’m
supposed to be warning him not to hurt her…not the other way
around. On the other hand, it’s nice to
know he cares so much.
In
the background, we see Jill exit Friendly’s and tentatively walk up to
him. He quickly flips the camera off.
(cut
to): a shot that reveals Nicholas on a bench putting his camera back into his
messenger bag.
Jill: Excuse me? You’re Nicholas Mann, right?
Nicholas
looks at her inquisitively.
Jill
cont’d: Hi.
Nicholas
smiles amiably as she sits down.
Jill
cont’d: I’m
Jill Thomas and—
Nicholas: Jill Thomas?
Jill: Uh-huh. I’m—
Nicholas: Jacqueline’s best friend. I know.
Jill: She told you about me?
We
can see now that Jill is pretty impressed with this guy.
Nicholas: Yes, she did.
Jill: Wow. It’s so weird that you know who I
am.
Nicholas
smiles curiously.
Nicholas: Why?
Jill: Because…I mean…I…I think you’re
a really great actor.
He’s
surprised.
Jill
cont’d: My
dad and I saw you in Our Town, off-Broadway.
I thought you were amazing…and I hate that play.
Nicholas: Greg Thomas went to see an
off-Broadway production of Our Town?
Jill: He sniffs out that play…he
loves it…it could be a high school in Brooklyn…we go see it. Besides, he says all the good actors hide
off-Broadway.
Nicholas: What’d he…I mean…did he
mention thinking anything about me?
Jill: He said you played George
in a way he hadn’t seen before and that you’ve got way more talent than your
father.
Nicholas
smiles.
Nicholas: He really said that?
Jill
nods.
Nicholas
cont’d:
That is…wow…that’s…thank you for sharing that with me.
He
really is flattered.
(cut
to): inside. Will, Gwen and Scout all try
to look outside.
Will: I swear I saw that guy on
campus today…waiting outside the dean’s office.
Scout: Maybe he’s the new live-in.
Gwen: Maybe you can just ask
him…looks like they’re coming in.
The
door opens as Nicholas and Jill walk in together.
Jill: Hey everyone…this is
Nicholas Mann.
Scout: Are you the new
live-in? Aren’t you a little young?
Jill: Shut up, Scout. He’s an actor, not—
Nicholas: Actually…I’m sort of
exploring another side of drama…
Will: So, you are the new
teacher?
Nicholas
nods.
Will
cont’d: I’m
Will Krudski…this is my roommate, Scout Calhoun and…my girlfriend, Gwen Vaughn.
Gwen: We all go to Rawley.
Nicholas: Nice to meet you all.
Scout: Hey…word to the wise,
controlling the dorms is tough.
Jill: Shut up, Scout.
She
turns to Nicholas.
Jill
cont’d: He
used to be the R.A.
Nicholas
(to Scout):
Oh…well…maybe you could give me some pointers.
Scout
smiles.
Scout: Yeah, sure.
Jill’s
cell phone rings from her pocket. She
takes it out and takes the call.
Jill: Hello? Hey!
I’ve been trying to get in touch with you too…I was in the art room late
and I left my cell…
Everyone
is watching her and she realizes is.
Jill
cont’d:
Hey, hang on, okay?
She
talks to everyone:
Jill
cont’d:
Excuse me…
She
turns to walk outside.
(cut
to): the sidewalk outside as Jill walks out of the restaurant.
Jill: Still there?…Okay,
Jacqueline…Oh. My. God….he’s so hot.
Like, after dad and I saw him in that play, I wanted to marry him and
have his children, but, wow, he’s all shy and humble—huh? Oh, Friendly’s….Will and Gwen, but they get
off in a half hour…yeah, she works here now.
It’s some weird way she and Will have scheduled time together…Well,
actually, Scout’s here too, but he and I are leaving in a few…Wait, so, it really
is true? He’s teaching here?…I’m so signing
up for drama; think it’ll be co-ed?
Which reminds me, does he know?…Just like that? Buy him a burger and introduce him to
Jake?…Hey, are you okay? Want me to
come over for awhile?…Okay….okay, I’ll talk to you tomorrow…I think you’ll be
fine…okay, bye.
Jill
hangs up the phone.
Jill
cont’d:
Life just keeps getting weirder.
Music:
Make
it Better by Evan and Jaron
(cut
to): Jake’s room. Hamilton sits on her
bed watching her pace as she hangs up her phone. She’s got a dress on over a pair of Jake jeans.
Hamilton: What’d she say? Is she mad at you again?
Jake: No…she’s been pretty busy
herself…I think she’s up to something with Scout.
Hamilton: Now there’s a dangerous
combination.
Jake: Tell me about it.
A
beat.
Hamilton: So…what look are you going
for here?
Jake
looks down at her outfit.
Jake: I have no idea.
She
takes the jeans off, leaving just the dress.
Hamilton: Much better.
She
walks over to the mirror.
Jake: Really? Think this looks okay?
Hamilton: I think you look beautiful.
She
smiles. A beat.
Jake: He’s there already…at
Friendly’s. Getting to know everyone, I
suppose.
Hamilton: Cool.
Jake: Yeah, I guess.
Hamilton
raises an eyebrow.
Jake
cont’d:
It’s going to be weird having to share him with everyone.
Hamilton
laughs.
Jake
cont’d: What?
Hamilton: You’re jealous…it’s
cute…especially considering our previous discussion.
Jake
rolls her eyes.
Jake: Yeah, yeah…whatever…help me
pick out the boy outfit.
She
looks at the closet nervously. She
reaches back to unzip the dress, but can’t quite reach and it only adds to her
already existing frustration. She takes
a deep breath to try to calm down.
Hamilton stands up and walks over to her.
Hamilton: It’s not going to be a big
deal, okay?
He
unzips her dress, kissing her on the shoulder.
Jake: What if he freaks?
Hamilton: He seems really
open-minded. And, if he does freak…he’s
a jerk because there’s nothing to freak about.
Jake: Right…my life is totally
normal.
Hamilton: You’re being really hard on
yourself. Your life—our life
isn’t that weird.
He
places his hands on her shoulders.
Hamilton
cont’d:
Under everything…this is really our life.
He
nods toward the mirror. She exams the
two of them in the mirror looking like a perfectly normal teenage couple.
Hamilton
cont’d: Oh,
and this…
He
kiss her shoulder again.
Hamilton
cont’d:
And, this…
He
kisses her neck. She turns around to
face him, kissing him briefly.
Hamilton
cont’d:
That too.
She
smiles just before they kiss again.
(cut
to): Friendly’s. Scout, Jill and Nick
sit at a table, talking. Gwen is behind
the counter, taking Johanna’s order.
Gwen: I’m not sure if we can do
that.
Johanna: Where’s Will?
Will
walks out from the kitchen carrying a tray to Scout’s table. He sets two plates down: one for Scout, one
for Jill. He glances up at Gwen who
looks at him pleadingly. He walks back
behind the counter.
Will: Hey…what’s up?
Gwen: She wants fries…with ice
cream?
Will
turns to Johanna.
Will: You want hot fudge with
that?
Johanna: Yes, please.
He
smiles and walks back into the kitchen.
Gwen: Sorry, I’m new.
Johanna
nods impatiently and takes a sip of her water.
An awkward beat passes.
Gwen cont’d: Will and I are coming to your
wedding.
Johanna: I got the RSVP.
Gwen nods. Will walks back out of the
kitchen carrying a plate and a pitcher of Coke. He sets the plate down in front of Johanna and hands Gwen the
pitcher. She takes it and walks over to
the group, giving refills. Will watches
her as she over-fills Jill’s glass. He
speaks to Johanna.
Will: She’s new.
Johanna: Obviously.
Will
smiles and turns his attention to Johanna who is eating. Pan down to her plate: French fries covered
in ice cream and hot fudge, topped with whipped cream and a cherry. Pan back up to Will who shakes his head,
amused with her.
Will: How is that?
Johanna: Delicious; thank you.
Will: How are the wedding
preparations going?
Johanna
waves her hand.
Johanna: I don’t want to talk about
it.
Will: I talked to Finn today.
Johanna: Did he say if he found
someone to sucker into being his best man?
This
hurts Will.
Will: Um…sort of…
She
looks up; she gets it.
Johanna: He asked you, didn’t he?
Will
nods.
Will: Guess I’m the sucker…
Johanna: He never said
anything like that, Will. I’m just so
frustrated with him because he’s not—
Will: …freaking out?
Johanna: I am not “freaking
out.”
Will: Listen, Ms. Ryan…I know you
want your wedding to be perfect, but…can I share something with you?
She
nods and takes another bite of her French fry Sundae.
Will: Gwen’s my girlfriend.
He
nods over to the table where she’s taken a seat and joined the conversation.
Will
cont’d:
She’s graduating this year and I’m really going to miss her so every second we
get to spend together means a lot to me.
That’s why we’ve planned out all these ways to spend time together.
Johanna: That’s very sweet, Will,
but—
Will: What I really love,
though, are these perfect little moments that happen. Like, the other day, we planned a picnic and half-way through…it
started raining. At first, I was really
disappointed because I’m the one that set the whole thing up…planned it out,
but, then…I realized how beautiful she looked sitting there with her hair all
wet, holding my now soggy peanut butter sandwich.
Will
is watching Gwen with a sweet smile.
Johanna glances back at her.
Will
cont’d: I
think that moments like that…well, they’re way more genuine than anything you
could plan.
A
beat as Johanna doesn’t really buy any of it.
Will
cont’d: I’m
not against planning stuff out, but…I like to think of any plans I make as an
outline…then I fill in the gaps with the really good, unplanned, stuff.
Johanna
takes one more bite.
Johanna: Okay, Will, that was a
really wonderful speech and all that stuff is great…if you’re some sixteen year
old idealist, but I have a wedding to plan so, let me get the rest of
this to go.
She
pushed the plate toward him. He looks
really disappointed by her.
Will: I’m seventeen.
He
takes the plate.
Will
cont’d: And
idealism is just an understanding of the potential of reality.
He
turns and takes the plate toward the kitchen, but turns to add:
Will
cont’d: And
reality does not reach its potential by way of an elaborate plan.
He
exits with the plate, leaving Johanna slightly taken aback.
(fade
out)
(fade
in): to a shot down the street from Friendly’s taken from Nicholas’ video
camera. He pans back and once again
settles on the garage. “REC” pops up in
the corner.
Music: I’m with You by Avril
Lavigne
Nicholas
(off camera):
I’m supposed to be meeting Jacqueline.
She’s late. It’s funny how that
motorcycle seems a lot less cool to me now that I’m sitting here thinking about
her riding around on it.
A
beat as he zooms out on the garage.
Sean walks out of Friendly’s, into frame, carrying a to-go Coke.
Nicholas
(off camera) cont’d: Hey, excuse me?
(cut
to): a shot of Nicholas sitting on a bench in front of Friendly’s. Sean, just about to step off the sidewalk,
looks over at him.
Nicholas
cont’d: Is
there a pay phone around here?
Sean
smiles.
Sean: You’re not from around
here, are you?
Nicholas: I am now. Do you go to Rawley?
Sean: See this truck.
He
nods over to his truck, which is parked at the curb. Nicholas nods, but doesn’t quite understand.
Sean
cont’d:
And, it’s not even mine…it’s my parents.
Nicholas
still doesn’t get it.
Sean
cont’d: I don’t
go to Rawley…although, I do have a blind date with a Rawley girl.
Nicholas
smiles.
Nicholas: Good luck.
Sean: Thanks.
He
starts to go to his car as Nicholas looks up and down the street. Sean turns back to him.
Sean
cont’d:
They’ll probably let you use the phone at the garage over there.
Nicholas
smiles gratefully.
Nicholas: Thank you.
(cut
to): Bella’s bedroom. She’s just gotten
dressed and is looking in the mirror. Grace walks in.
Grace: I cannot believe you let Scout
set you up with some Rawley guy.
Bella: That makes two of us. How do I look?
Grace: Actually, you look really
pretty.
Bella
smiles.
Grace
cont’d:
Where are you meeting this guy again?
Bella: By the lake…Scout said
something about a picnic.
Grace: Sounds…horrible.
Bella
rolls her eyes . The desk bell rings from downstairs: someone is
in the office. Bella starts for the
door, but Grace stops her.
Grace: I got this one.
Bella
looks surprised; Grace noticed.
Grace
cont’d:
Emphasis on one.
Grace
exits. Bella turns back to the mirror.
Music:
Things I’ll
Never Say by Avril Lavigne (hey, it’s kind of their theme song)
(cut
to): by the lake. Scout and Jill set up
a picnic blanket and picnic. Scout starts to take some of the food out.
Jill: We should probably just
leave the food in the basket…who wants to find an ant in their pb and j?
Scout: Good point.
A
beat as they finish and sit down on the blanket. Scout looks out across the lake.
Jill looks at him.
Jill: What made you agree to
this?
Scout
looks at her, searching for an answer.
Scout: I guess I had been thinking
we should let everything work itself out…then I realized maybe that isn’t the
best plan.
She
nods.
Jill: What about what you
said? If they wanted to be together,
they would be.
Scout: I think…maybe…people have
trouble acting on what they want sometimes.
Jill: One more question?
Scout: Okay.
Jill: How come we never
went on a romantic picnic? I mean, I’m
totally jealous here.
Scout
smiles, a little sad, as he fixes his gaze out on the lake.
Scout: I guess we should go,
before they get here.
Some
noise comes from the woods.
Scout
cont’d:
Sounds like someone is coming already.
Jill: Sean is, like, perpetually
early.
Scout: Come on, let’s go.
Scout
hops up, holding his hand out to help Jill up.
She gets up as they quickly exit into the woods. A moment later, Sean walks out of the woods
from a trail and checks out the picnic.
He smiles to himself and has a seat on the blanket.
Music: Let’s Forget About It by
Lisa Loeb
(cut
to): Johanna and Finn’s house.
(cut
to): the kitchen table where Johanna is eating out of a Friendly’s to-go box
and looking at some paperwork. Meagan
and Finn walk in through the back door.
Finn is carrying the dress.
Johanna: That took long enough.
Meagan
looks really put off by the statement.
She takes the dress from Finn.
Meagan: I’ll take this upstairs.
Johanna: Make sure you try it on.
Meagan
doesn’t like the comment as she marches silently from the room. Finn sits down with Johanna.
Finn: I really wish you would
have spoken with her last night…let her know you’re not mad at her.
Johanna: I really wish you would
have told me you were going to ask a sixteen year old to be your best man.
Finn: Isn’t Will seventeen?
Johanna: It doesn’t matter…he’s a
child, Finn.
Finn: He also happens to be a
really good friend…to both of us.
Johanna: I also didn’t like that I
heard it from him before you.
Finn: He saw you first…what’s the
big deal?
Johanna: The big…the big deal? The big deal is I’m going to have a normal,
decent wedding…or I’m not having a wedding at all.
Finn: Everything is going
to be normal and decent.
She
shakes her head.
Finn
cont’d:
Listen to me, the doctor said you don’t need any extra stress and I think
you’re going out of your way to stress yourself out.
Johanna: You know, you’re
right. Suddenly, I fail to see why I’m
trying so hard to marry you.
He
doesn’t catch how serious she is.
Finn: Here’s what we’re going to
do—
Johanna: What we’re going to
do…is call off the wedding.
Finn: No, we’re not, but you are
going to let me take over a few things.
Johanna: I don’t want you here
anymore.
Finn: You’re not getting rid of
me that easily…I live here and…I love you.
Johanna: It’s not good enough, Finn.
She
shakes her head and gets up, exiting the room.
Finn seems suddenly hit by what she’s said to him
Music:
Caught in
the Sun by Course of Nature.
(cut
to): the front of the garage. Nicholas
is leaving. Grace stands at the door.
Grace: Come back anytime.
Nicholas: Thank you.
Nicholas
quickly gets away as Grace checks him out.
Jake’s bike is now at Friendly’s; Nicholas notices.
(cut
to): inside Friendly’s where Jake (dressed as Jacqueline) sits at a both. Nicholas smiles and walks over, taking a
seat. There’s just one girl
working. She walks off into the
kitchen.
(cut
to): the table.
Nicholas: I was worried about you.
Jake: Yeah…sorry about that…I had
to…change. I tried to call your cell,
but—
Nicholas: I left it on campus.
Nicholas
smiles.
Nicholas
cont’d:
Thanks for trying, though.
She
nods. A beat.
Nicholas
cont’d:
So…what’d you have to tell me?
Jake: Well…did you ever do
something really crazy just to get attention?
Nicholas
smiles mysteriously.
Nicholas: Not recently.
Jake looks down, trying to come up with just how to
tell him. Nicholas realizes something is up.
Nicholas cont’d: Hey, whatever it
is…I’ll promise to understand.
Jake laughs to herself.
Jake: You don’t want to
promise that…this is very complicated and…hard to understand…hard to explain.
He nods.
Nicholas: When I have something
difficult to say, I just try to get it all out in one breath, as quickly as
possible.
She looks up at him, hesitates, then:
Jake (quickly): When I came to
Rawley, I wanted to make one last attempt to get Mom’s attention so I enrolled
in Rawley Boys’ as “Jake” then I met Hamilton and suddenly mom’s attention
didn’t seem as important as staying here…with him. I live in the boys’ dorm and most people around here don’t even
know that Jacqueline exists.
Nicholas’ expression changes from confused to…more
confused.
Nicholas: What…what?
Jake takes a deep breath, trying to let it sink in,
but Nicholas looks as confused as ever.
Jake: Hang on…I’ll be right
back.
She grabs her backpack and heads for…the men’s
room. This only confuses Nick
further. He stands up, possibly with
the intention of taking off when the bell rings indicating someone
entering. He glances toward the
door…his eyes widen slightly.
(cut to): Bella who looks pretty taken aback
herself.
(cut to): a shot that includes both of them. After a few attempts, Nicholas finally
manages to get something out:
Nicholas: What are you doing here?
We hear the bathroom door open.
Jake (off screen):
Bella...hey.
Nicholas and Bella look over at the bathroom where
Jake has re-emerged, dressed as a boy.
(cut to): Nicholas. He looks back and forth from “Jake” to Bella…very confused. Hold on Nick as we…
(fade out)
Or