Fast Forward: …and the number one way to fuck up a relationship
a new beginnings special
by Estee and Harmony
Ah, yet another fic that is not an episode. This is sort of the complement to Rewind. Instead of Jake and Ham in the past, it’s Jake and Ham in the future. The most important thing to know about this is that it you cannot take it as a “will be.” It’s simply a “could be.” When you read the other episodes you shouldn’t think this is where the characters involved will ultimately end up. This is just a “what if?” Now, content. The title is what it is to let you know that there’s some strong language used throughout the fic. The themes are a little more adult-based, but this isn’t anywhere close to being an “adult” fic. I think the essential Jake and Hamilton innocence is preserved. Hopefully. Also, I think this is, hands down, the coolest thing we’ve ever written. I hope you enjoy it half as much as we do. Oh, one more thing. If you can, download the song Troubled Times by Fountains of Wayne . It’s the only song we reference and we really think it fits well into that particular scene. Enjoy…
(fade in to): a close-up of Hamilton Fleming asleep. As the camera pulls out we realize that he’s asleep on the ground somewhere, a garden. It’s dark outside. Exact time and place aren’t too clear as the camera pulls out a little more. Still, all we see is Hamilton, dressed in sweatpants and a hooded sweatshirt. The camera holds briefly as we are given the opportunity to look him over. He’s older. The fact that he is asleep originally gives the impression of youth, innocence and optimism, but upon inspection we realize that we’ve caught him in a moment of utter defeat and submission. Hamilton Fleming has given up. We don’t know why, but we will…
(flashback to): to an establishing shot of the New York City skyline taken from the harbor and including the Statue of Liberty. The year is 2010, though not much has changed in the city. From the harbor, there are no twin towers, but everyone is used to that by now and apartments in Lower Manhattan rent for pretty high prices since they now have a view of the Statue of Liberty. This isn’t a story about the twin towers though.
(cut to): a street somewhere in Lower Manhattan. It’s busy and thriving. It’s also after five on a Friday and everyone is rushing to get home.
(cut to): a small office. It looks almost like a store because there are glass windows in the front so anyone walking by may see what’s going on inside. The name of the establishment is etched onto the glass on either of the large paned windows: “FPT Inc.” Something about the way the outside of the business is setup and the way the name looks give hints that something creative is happening inside. There is a “sorry, we’re closed” sign hanging in the door.
(cut to): inside the business. There is a counter separating the customer area from the employee area. In front of the counter there are a few lounge chairs, a couch and a coffee table with large sample books on it. There are four computers in various places with one to three chairs at each. The camera is pushed in past the customer area over the counter. There are several computers with scanners and such. A few of the stations have high tech graphic arts tools. There are also large drafting tables. One in particular has pictures laid out on it. There is a door at the very back of this workspace. It opens and for the first time we see Jacqueline “Jake” Pratt. She’s wearing a long Khaki skirt and a business looking shirt…all very feminine. Her hair just touches her shoulders and is cut in a moderately trendy style for the time. She looks around a moment, thinking of leaving. Instead, she walks over to a computer, her computer. She sits down, with one leg underneath her. She looks like she is trying to get back into full-concentration mode when the door begins to unlock. She looks up.
(cut to): the door as Hamilton Fleming walks in. He’s wearing a suit and tie, but has his jacket in his hand, thrown over his shoulder. He has set down a portfolio to unlock the door. Once he has it unlocked, he picks up the portfolio again. He looks up at Jake as he sets down his coat and portfolio onto one of the chairs.
Hamilton: Hey.
(cut to): Jake. She smiles.
Jake: Nice suit…good choice.
(cut to): Hamilton. He looks down and shrugs.
Hamilton: You picked this out for me years ago.
He looks back up at her, looking suddenly uncomfortable.
(cut to): Jake.
Jake: Oh…yeah…
(cut to): a shot from the side that includes Jake and the counter.
Hamilton walks over to the counter. He leans against is as he talks to her.
Hamilton: The meeting went really well. They loved the pictures for the print ads: I showed them those first. Then, you should have seen them when I showed them the prelims for the site. Man, Jake…that was really brilliant. You’ve got to start going to these meetings with me.
Jake: I’d rather stay behind the scenes, thanks.
Hamilton: I know how you feel, believe me, but…they love your work. Every time they tell me like I did it and I want you to be there so I can point to you and say…it was all her…she’s the brilliant one.
Jake can’t help smile. She shakes her head, though, and looks down a moment then back up at him. They both start to speak.
Hamilton: Sorry, go ahead.
Jake: I was just going to ask if you wanted to celebrate…grab dinner or a drink?
Hamilton: I don’t—
Jake: …drink, I know.
Hamilton loosens his tie and considers the offer.
Hamilton: I told Julie I’d be home early and…I’m already late. I mean, if you’re really in the mood to celebrate I could call her and—
Jake: Oh God, no, Hamilton…don’t be ridiculous.
Hamilton swallows.
Hamilton: Another time, okay?
She smiles.
Jake: Yeah…now, get the hell out of here.
He smiles and nods. He starts to walk over to get his stuff then thinks of something.
Hamilton: Hey, are you and…what’s his name? Tom? Tim? Taylor?
Jake: Eric?
Hamilton: Yes. Are you and Eric still—
Jake: No.
Hamilton: Oh…I’m sor—
Jake laughs.
Jake: Just go home Hamilton; I’ll see you tomorrow.
He collects his stuff and exits, glad for the out.
(dissolve to): later that night…much later. Jake is still in the office, working at the computer. The phone rings. She hesitantly picks it up.
Jake: Hello, FPT Inc, what can I do for you in the middle of the damn night? No, I knew it was you…because you probably tried home for the past few hours and then you tried here…He didn’t call you? Never mind, of course he didn’t. His charming girlfriend was waiting on him…oh, you know, just that they loved everything: the photos for the print ads…the prelims for the site…I know, this is our biggest account ever…I am…I am excited, okay?…Nothing’s wrong…He was wearing that suit I picked out for him. The one he wore when he pitched our ideas to our first clients…I know…I am aware of that too…No I don’t and no I’m not, it just made things a little awkward for a moment…a brief moment…okay…I’m not even tired right now…I’m not…I—
There is a knock and Jake stops talking. She slowly gets up from her chair.
Jake cont’d: …damn him. I have to go…who do you think?
(cut to): the door. Hamilton has by now unlocked it and enters the office. He has a couple cartons of Chinese food.
(cut to): Jake. She waves to Hamilton as she listens on the phone.
Jake cont’d: I know that.
She looks at Hamilton, shaking her head. He’s walked over to her now and stands holding the Chinese food. He’s changed into jeans a t shirt.
Jake cont’d: I’m not fifteen, Jill…okay…bye.
Hamilton: Did you tell her about the account?
Jake: She was thrilled.
Jake looks at the Chinese food.
Hamilton: I knew you’d stay here and start turning those prelims into finished product…you need dinner. Sesame chicken, right?
He holds it out to her. She takes it, smiling.
Jake: Oh, I love you.
He looks at her for a moment.
Jake cont’d: …for the food. I mean I love Sesame chicken and that you brought it. I didn’t mean—
She looks up at him, trying to find the right phrasing.
Hamilton: It’s cool.
Jake sits down in a chair and looks at the Chinese food.
Jake: How did we up here…like this?
Hamilton hopes to play this off.
Hamilton: Well, I took a cab because I had to get this food, but you probably took the subway –
Jake: You know that isn’t what I mean.
He pulls up a chair and sits next to her. She doesn’t say anything. She opens the carton and stares at the food.
Jake cont’d: I mean…forget it.
Hamilton closes his eyes a moment as he speaks.
Hamilton: You mean us.
Jake: Yes.
He nods slowly implying he’ll tackle this question. He doesn’t speak quickly and he seems to gauge her reaction to every word he says.
Hamilton: Well…there was the day we graduated from college when you said you hated me.
He pauses as he looks at her, but she isn’t looking at him.
Hamilton cont’d: …of course, you had every right to say it…to mean it. That was the day I found out what a coward I am.
Jake almost cringes at the memory.
Hamilton cont’d: Then there was the year of not talking to each other. I drank that year.
She looks up at him…at something she’s never heard before.
Hamilton cont’d: I also cried quite a bit. Overall…not really a great year for me.
Jake looks at him, but he doesn’t look at her until:
Hamilton cont’d: Then I ran into Jill one day. We all went out to dinner and started tossing around ideas and…the rest is proverbial history. The past two years have been the most creative of my life.
Jake looks up at this.
Hamilton cont’d: Professionally speaking, that is.
Jake looks back down at her food. It’s clear he wants to ask her something. He hesitates, but goes for it.
Hamilton cont’d: I’ve also spent the last two years wondering if…you still hate me as much as it feels like you do.
Jake: Hamilton…
Hamilton: I know what I said…what I’ve always said about us being best friends. I mean, I don’t think that’s something I could shake if I wanted to. But, if you hate me…
He looks at her, hoping for an interruption, but doesn’t get it. He goes on.
Hamilton cont’d: …you’d have every right to…I hated myself for about a year. And last weekend was—
Jake: … a mistake.
He looks at her for a moment wondering if he should say what he was going to.
Hamilton: …incredibly refreshing.
Jake stares at her food again, looking a little confused by what he just said.
(cut to): her sesame chicken.
(dissolve to): some party snacks involving chicken. This is a flashback to the weekend they are referring to. It’s a casual party at Jill’s place. Jill’s place, incidentally, is also Scout’s place…they’re married which is evidenced in rings and behavior.
(cut to): Jake looking bored while talking to an excited Scout.
Scout: So, this building, it’s going to be about eighty stories and—
Jill walks up carrying a glass of champagne. Scout pauses, looking at the champagne suspiciously. Jill smiles at him as she wraps her arm around his back and hands Jake the glass.
Jake: Thanks.
She quickly takes a sip.
Jake cont’d: Hey, I was working on the prelims for the Marshall account and I need something really bold for the main page. Hamilton put together some amazing shots, but I’m thinking maybe something abstract initially then we use the photos within the site.
Jill: Okay, I was working on something last night. It might be what you’re looking for. Want to go check it out?
Jake: Great, yes.
Jill turns to Scout.
Jill: Honey…can you keep these people under control until I get back?
He smiles and nods. She kisses him before Jake and Jill walk away.
(cut to): Jake and Jill as they approach Jill’s studio. The apartment is obviously rather large, but the studio is probably the most tucked away place. As they get closer, voices can be heard from inside. Jake and Jill look at each other, suspicious.
(cut to): inside the studio. Hamilton is leaning against a tall worktable and a woman is sitting at the bench. She’s beautiful in kind of an anti-Jake way. Meaning, everything Jake is, she isn’t and vice-versa.
Hamilton: You’re not being reasonable.
Julie: Neither are you. You go to work with these two women everyday like it’s no big deal.
Hamilton: It isn’t a big deal, okay? They’re my colleagues…and my partners.
Julie: Yeah, it’s too bad you can’t just fire them.
Hamilton: I wouldn’t even if I could.
Julie: And that’s why I’m mad, Ham. You take their side over mine whenever you can. They hate me. I mean did you hear what Jill said to me about not understanding what you guys do? I don’t understand why they don’t like me…and why you don’t seem to care.
Hamilton: Do you even hear yourself? Who cares what they think about you? I am with you…shouldn’t that be what matters for us?
He looks at her with raised eyebrows and an insistent, pouty look, urging her to see things his way.
Julie: They’re probably both in love with you…
Hamilton loses it.
Hamilton: What? Don’t even start this. Jill is married to one of my best friends, and Jake—
Julie: Jake? I don’t even understand that nickname, but I don’t understand a lot about her…like why you would have ever been with her.
(cut to): Jake and Jill in the hall. Whenever they speak, it’s quiet so as not to be heard by Hamilton and Julie.
Jake: We shouldn’t be—
Jill: Oh no, we’re staying and when they come out, we’re kicking his ass for being in my studio and hers for being such a dumb bitch.
(cut to): Hamilton and Julie…same places. Hamilton is still staring at her from the last comment. He hasn’t quite figured out what to say, but he looks pretty angry.
Hamilton: What Jake and I had…I was the lucky one and you have no right to make judgments about something you know very little about.
(cut to): the hall. Jill looks pleased with Hamilton’s most recent statement. Jake takes another sip of her champagne.
(cut to): the studio. Julie stands up.
Julie: You’re doing it again…taking her side over mine. It couldn’t have been that great because if it was, you wouldn’t have slept with a random girl at a party the day before she was supposed to move in with you.
Hamilton takes a deep breath.
Hamilton: You’re questioning my relationship judgment?
He looks at her like he’s about to say something hurtful.
Hamilton cont’d: Well…I’m beginning to as well.
She looks un-phased as she rolls her eyes.
Hamilton cont’d: And I didn’t tell you about what happened that morning so you could use it against me in a fight. That was like a really hard time for me and the fact that you would—
Julie: You’re such a girl. The over-sensitive routine was cute when we first started dating, but now it’s just annoying.
(cut to): Jill and Jake in the hall.
Jill: I always thought it was kind of endearing.
Jake doesn’t look amused by any of this anymore.
(cut to): inside the studio. Hamilton has his hand in his pocket and pulls out a few bills. He walks over and hands them to her.
Hamilton: Take a cab back home. Be there when I get back…or don’t…
She looks pretty shocked, but takes the money.
(cut to): Jill and Jake who realize that someone is about to come out. Jake looks at her like “what do we do?” Jill rolls her eyes and pulls Jake into a bathroom across the hall.
(cut to): the hall. Julie walks out into the hall. She turns back to the door.
Julie: Goodbye.
She closes the door and walks off.
(cut to): Jake and Jill in the bathroom.
Jake: What now?
(cut to): the studio. Hamilton tries to regroup. He looks around the studio. He notices a painting near the computer and walks over to it, but doesn’t seem in the mood to examine it further. He walks toward the door, opening it.
(cut to): the bathroom. Jill flushes the toilet then opens the door and pushes her out.
(cut to): the hall. Just as she is shoved into the hall, Hamilton walks out of the studio. He looks glad to see her, yet slightly taken aback.
Hamilton: Uh…hey.
Jake: Hey.
Hamilton: What are you—
Jake: I was just coming to, um, check out something Jill was working on for the Marshall account. Could be what I need for the main page.
Hamilton: Oh yeah, I think I saw it. It’s really good, but all her stuff is great. Don’t ever tell her I said that, though.
He smiles. Jake laughs.
Hamilton cont’d: Let’s go take a look.
Jake: Okay.
Hamilton walks into the studio and Jake looks back at the bathroom door. Jill opens it a little. Jake mouths “I hate you” to Jill who just rolls her eyes, smiling.
(cut to): inside the studio. Hamilton walks over to the painting, still not inspired enough to analyze it. Jake tilts her head, examining it.
Hamilton: Jake…can we save this for another day?
Jake: Huh?
Hamilton: I’m just…I’d rather…I don’t want to talk about business.
He sits down for a second and puts his head in his hands.
Hamilton cont’d: I’ve had kind of an emotional night.
Jake: I saw Julie leaving…
Hamilton: I don’t want to talk about it.
Jake takes a step back, finding it hard not to place a hand on his shoulder, make some comforting gesture. She looks at him when he suddenly looks up at her.
Hamilton: Is it stuffy in here?
Jake: Um…
Hamilton: Can we go outside?
Jake: Oh…sure.
(cut to): the rooftop balcony outside the studio. The door opens from the studio and Hamilton walks out, taking a deep breath. Jake walks out behind him and closes the door.
Jake: God, how could you not love this city?
She walks to the edge of the balcony and looks out at the city.
Hamilton: Sometimes you can…not love it, that is.
Hamilton walks over to her and sits in a chair next to her.
Hamilton cont’d: Maybe I wanted too much, you know? Too much from this city…from life. I mean, I had this perfect, amazing relationship, but…I fucked that up beyond all repair.
Jake: Julie?
Hamilton looks up at her sincerely.
Hamilton: No…not Julie.
He pauses a moment, looking at her intensely. He drops the look and goes on.
Hamilton cont’d: Now I’ve got the perfect career. I mean this thing we have…it’s so fulfilling. I love what I do…what we do…you and me and Jill.
Jake: So do I.
Hamilton: But. I’m twenty-five years old…that’s not old enough to feel how I feel.
Jake: Which is how?
Hamilton: Completely incomplete.
Jake: Where’s Will Krudski? He’d point out that that is an oxymoron.
Hamilton: I got an email from him last month. He’s about to start a book tour. We’ll have to see him when he comes to the city.
Jake: Absolutely.
A beat.
Jake cont’d: So…completely incomplete, huh?
Hamilton: Can I have a sip of that?
He points to the glass that is still in her hand.
Jake: It’s champagne.
Hamilton: Okay…
She raises her eyebrows, but shrugs and hands it to him. She leans against the rail and looks out at the city. Hamilton takes a big sip of champagne. He clearly doesn’t like the taste, but that doesn’t stop him from taking another sip. He pushes the glass against Jake’s arm and she takes it.
Hamilton cont’d: You’re my best friend.
Jake makes an effort not to react.
Hamilton cont’d: No one gets me like you do.
Jake: Maybe that’s because you don’t let them.
Hamilton: Or…maybe they don’t try as hard as you did.
Jake: I didn’t have to try hard—
She shuts up.
Jake cont’d: Is this leading somewhere?
Hamilton: Does it need to be?
Jake hands him the champagne glass and starts to walk away. He grabs her hand as she walks by and stands up. He sets the glass down.
Hamilton cont’d: Wait…there is a point.
He lets go of her hand.
Hamilton cont’d: These last few years have been awkward, I know, but…I think it’s been working for us…this friendship. I mean…have things…are you…do you think—
Jake: Yes, it’s been working for me.
Hamilton: Even with Julie and…what’s his name? Adam? Aaron?
Jake smiles.
Jake: Eric.
Hamilton: Right, Eric. Where is he, by the way? Never mind; not important. My point is…you are still my best friend so…when I ask you this, you have to be honest with me.
Jake: Okay…
Hamilton: Have I lost it? I mean…because it really feels like I have…
Jake laughs. She walks back over to him and leans against the railing. She picks up the champagne glass again and takes the last sip.
Jake: In what sense?
Hamilton: Have you ever had déjà vu?
Jake: Yeah, sure.
Hamilton: What’s it feel like? I mean, to you.
Jake: Um…I guess like I’ve done something before or been somewhere when I haven’t.
Hamilton nods.
Jake cont’d: What’s it like for you?
Hamilton: Well, like you said, but also a little like it’s right, you know? Like whatever I am doing feels really right.
Jake looks at him, waiting for him to go on.
Hamilton cont’d: I haven’t felt that in a really long time. In fact, my life feels like the complete opposite of déjà vu these days. Like there are cosmic forces working against me and I’m having to push really hard to move forward in my life.
Jake: Okay…yeah, you have lost it.
She laughs, but he looks pretty serious.
Jake cont’d: We should get back to the party…come on…
She takes his hand in an attempt to gently lead him back toward the door. He follows her for a second until he’s caught up with her, then he stops, stopping her too.
Hamilton: When we walked out into the hall at the same time…
Jake looks at him pretty intensely.
Jake: …déjà vu?
Jake cont’d: I know, Hamilton, but…
She can’t seem to figure out just where that sentence was going. He leans toward her, kissing her (or barely kissing her). He pulls back quickly.
Hamilton: I’m sorry…I’m…sorry…
He starts to back away. She’s pretty speechless and she lets him go without hesitation. He goes through the door, letting it slam behind him. Jake turns back to the city and leans against the balcony. The shot zooms down into the city.
(flash forward to): the front of FPT Inc where we last left Jake and Hamilton.
(cut to): inside. Jake and Hamilton are briefly silent, each still considering the past weekend. The conversation picks up where it left off. Hamilton has just said the weekend was not a mistake, but, rather, “refreshing.”
Hamilton: Um…refreshing because of the conversation we had. Even though I ended it stupidly, I felt like maybe we re-established a few things that have been lost lately.
Jake: They weren’t lost…over-looked maybe.
Hamilton looks at her, considering pointing out that those are kind of the same thing.
Hamilton: Okay.
A beat. Hamilton swallows.
Hamilton cont’d: Well, I better get back home.
Jake nods.
Jake: Everything good there?
Hamilton smiles weakly.
Hamilton: I think so…we’ve talked a lot this week and…everything is at least better.
Jake: Good.
Hamilton: I’m sorry things didn’t work out with Eric.
She looks a little confused.
Jake: You got his name right.
Hamilton: Yeah.
Jake: You always knew it?
Hamilton smiles and turns to go. He gets as far as the counter when:
Jake cont’d: And, Hamilton…
He turns back around.
Jake cont’d: I don’t hate you. Even when I said I did, I didn’t. I could never…
He nods graciously.
Jake cont’d: I mean, after all, you did bring me Sesame chicken in the middle of the night.
His smile turns to a smirk as he turns back around and exits.
Hamilton: See you tomorrow, Jake.
He exits.
(fade to): black.
(fade in): to FPT Inc. It’s the next morning at about 8:45 a.m. Jake walks up to the door, carrying a cup of coffee. She’s also got a briefcase/portfolio thing so to unlock the door she has to hold the cup with her mouth. As she struggles to do this and find her keys, Jill walks up to the door, opening it for her. Jake walks in and sets her stuff down in the same chair Hamilton did the night before. Jill locks the door behind her. Jake holds her coffee cup with both hands and takes a sip.
Jill: You’re addicted to that stuff.
Jake: Let’s not start listing vices.
Jill: You’re right…your list is too long.
Jill cont’d: So, what was Hamilton doing here last night? Work?
Jake: He just stopped by to bring me some Sesame chicken.
Jill: In the middle of the night? See, we’re up to like three already.
Jake: What?
Jill: …of your vices. Coffee…Sesame Chicken…Him…
Jake: Stop…you’ve been way too preoccupied with that lately. Hamilton and I are friends right now, that’s all.
Jill: Right now…see how you phrased that. You want him bad.
Jake: One of these times he’s going to overhear you and…oh, God, you don’t say stuff like this to him, do you? I mean, please don’t get him to even think in that direction, Jill. He’s with Julie—
Jill: Aka dumb bitch.
Jake: …and that’s what he should be focusing on.
Jill: What? What about work…this company?
Jake: Sure, that too. And even this friendship with me that he’s been talking about lately.
Jill: “Talking”…yeah, right…
Jake: I’m never confiding in you again.
Jake takes the last sip of her coffee and throws the cup away. She picks up her briefcase and walks past Jill.
Jill: What is it with you two and rooftops anyway?
Jake turns around with a pleading look for Jill to drop it. Jill drops all sarcasm.
Jill: Hey, Jacqueline, I’m sorry. I know this must all be really stressful for you, not to mention all these new accounts. I’m sorry.
Jake shrugs.
Jake: I’m fine. You’re right. I should be able to joke about all this.
Jill sighs and walks over to her, hugging her. Jake hugs her back, probably glad for the gesture. The door unlocks.
(cut to): Hamilton as he walks in and sees what’s going on. He raises his eyebrows and smirks playfully.
Hamilton: Didn’t I tell you not to start the morning orgy without me?
Jill lets go of Jake and turns around.
Jill: Grow up, Ham.
She walks behind the counter.
Hamilton: She okay?
Hamilton cont’d: You?
Jake: Everything is fine. Come on, we’ve got work to do.
(cut to): An architectural firm, Denton and Associates, which is housed in one of the many office buildings in Manhattan.
(cut to): Scout Calhoun’s office. He’s just arrived and is sipping water from a coffee mug. He’s dressed in a three-piece suit and looks very professional. His phone rings. Scout hits the speaker phone and slides into his chair.
Scout: Yes?
Secretary: Mr. Calhoun, Jill Thomas on the line for you.
Scout: Thanks Nancy…
Secretary: Yes, sir, here she is.
He waits for it to click over.
Scout: Hi…
Jill: Hey sexy…
Scout: You know, my secretary probably thinks I’m having an affair.
Jill: Are you?
Scout: Yeah…with Jill Thomas.
Jill laughs.
(cut to): Jill at her desk. Some of the other employees have come into the office. At it’s busiest, there are 15 people on staff. Jill is watching Jake and Hamilton. They’re sitting at Jake’s computer.
(cut to): Scout.
Jill: Next time you see Hamilton, do me a favor?
Scout: Okay…
Jill: Find out how he feels about Jacqueline.
Scout: Why don’t you ask him?
(cut to): Jill. She’s watching Hamilton and Jake again.
Jill: Look, according to Jacqueline the friends thing is working out, but he also tried to kiss her on the roof the other night at the party so…
Scout: He did what?
Jill: Tell me about it.
Scout: What about Julie? He’s been with her for like a year now. I always thought he was over that whole thing with Jake…
Jill: And, maybe he is…
Scout: Okay…I’ll try to find out what’s going on with him.
The next few lines are cut back and forth so that you see each person when they speak:
Jill: Thanks…I love that you’re as nosey as me.
Scout: Speaking of…about that other thing…
Jill: It’s still set for this afternoon.
Scout smiles.
Scout: Okay. I love you.
Jill: I love you too.
(cut to): FPT Inc. Jill hangs up the phone and gets up to join Jake and Hamilton.
(cut to): Hamilton and Jake at her computer.
Jake: What do you think about the color?
Hamilton: I don’t know…blue is—
Jake: …what everyone uses.
Jake: Okay…color suggestions?
Jill: Green scheme?
Hamilton: Oh, yeah…good call. I was just about to say that green would be great with the main page too.
Jake: Okay…let’s see…
Jake gets starts typing and making a few changes. Hamilton reaches around her and gets a pencil so he can jot down some notes. Jill looks back and forth between them, she smiles.
(dissolve to): a residential area in Manhattan, that evening. This is Hamilton’s neighborhood. He and Scout come walking out of a building, Hamilton’s building. They’re in athletic gear and Scout carries a basketball. They walk down the steps.
(cut to): the side of the building where, naturally, a basketball goal is setup. Scout and Hamilton walk around the corner. Scout dribbles then takes a shot.
Hamilton: So…Jill left early today. You two have a mid-afternoon meeting?
He has spoken suggestively enough to make Scout miss the shot he throws up.
Scout: She had a doctor’s appointment actually. I would have liked to go with her, but I was in meetings all afternoon.
Hamilton: Is she okay?
Scout stops dribbling the ball. He turns to Hamilton, smiling.
Scout: She’s fine…more than fine. So am I.
Hamilton gives him a perplexed look, not getting the obvious. He looks down at the basketball a minute as it registers.
Hamilton: Oh my God…holy shit…Scout, that’s…that great…
He gives him a big hug and steps back.
Hamilton cont’d: You’re going to be a dad? That’s so…cool.
Scout smiles and takes another shot, making it this time.
Scout: We’ve known, but were waiting to tell everyone until after this first trimester check up thing. You’re actually like the first to know officially.
Hamilton: Wow. This is so heavy…parenthood.
Hamilton leans against the basketball goal post.
Scout: Well, you know, maybe someday you and Julie will—
The look on Hamilton’s face makes him stop. Scout raises his eyebrows hoping to prompt some sort of verbal explanation from Hamilton.
Hamilton: Who said I wanted kids?
Scout: Okay…no one said you had to have kids…calm down…
Hamilton: And if I do…who said I wanted them with Julie?
Scout: Okay…back off.
Scout passes the ball to Hamilton who holds it, taking a deep breath.
Hamilton: Sorry.
Hamilton passes the ball back.
Scout: No sweat.
He dribbles the ball again and starts shooting.
Hamilton: I mean, just keeping up this relationship is hard enough.
Scout stops dribbling.
Scout: Want to talk about it?
Hamilton looks hesitant, but then glad for the offer.
Hamilton: I don’t know if it’s her or the relationship, but…I’ve never had to put this much effort into anything in my life…
Scout: But, it’s worth it, right? I mean, you love her, right?
Hamilton: Of course…
He doesn’t look at Scout anymore. He goes after the ball the next time it falls and takes a shot, missing.
Scout: You do love her?
Hamilton: Didn’t I just say I did?
Scout: Okay.
Hamilton: I care about her at least.
Scout looks at his in disbelief.
Hamilton: …sometimes.
Scout stops dribbling again. He looks pretty shocked.
Scout: And, you don’t see a problem with this?
Hamilton: I…I’m not ending things with her. I need this relationship. I mean, we had a fight at the party and then…I just…I realized I need her.
Scout nods, trying to be accepting.
Hamilton: What I had with Jake…that was intense and real, but I can’t do that again. It was too much…too intense…too—
Scout: …real?
Hamilton looks down.
Hamilton: I screwed up. Do you even know what I did?
Scout: Something about another girl…I never got the full story.
Hamilton looks at him, wondering if he should tell him. Scout has just shared the baby news and Ham seems resolved to open up.
Hamilton: The night before Jake was supposed to move in, I went to this party and—
Scout: …got wasted.
Hamilton: Don’t I even wish. Then maybe I wouldn’t have to replay the stupidity of that night over and over…it would have been gone when the buzz wore off.
Scout’s interest is fairly piqued. Hamilton hesitates another moment before continuing.
Hamilton cont’d: I was talking to this girl who, unlike me, was lucky enough to be pretty wasted. She wasn’t that interesting, but she seemed really into me so I hung out with her all night until she kind of sobered up at like five a.m. Then I took her back to my place. I knew Jake would be there at eight. I didn’t even let this girl touch me until about seven.
(flashback to): Hamilton bringing the girl into the apartment. It doesn’t matter what she looks like…which is the point. She tries to move in to kiss him, but he steps away.
(flash forward to): Scout listening, but not quite believing Hamilton would do this. Hamilton leans against the basketball post and slides down so that he is sitting. He swallows and looks down at the basketball in his hands. He closes his eyes before continuing.
Hamilton cont’d: When Jake got there, I was about halfway through fucking this half sober, uninteresting…unsuspecting girl.
(flashback to): Jake as she unlocks Hamilton’s door and enters carrying a box.
(quick cut to): Hamilton and the girl. Very brief as he looks up at the bedroom door.
(quick cut to): Jake at the bedroom door. She doesn’t freak out, she just turns around and walks away.
(quick cut to): the box of stuff she carried in still laying on the floor.
(quick cut to): the door falling closed behind her.
(flash forward to): Scout and Hamilton at the basketball court. Scout’s jaw drops a little, if for nothing more than Hamilton’s phrasing. He doesn’t say anything, but doesn’t look pleased. Hamilton has been telling the story without looking at Scout. He sighs then looks up at Scout. Scout looks pretty disgusted with the story.
Hamilton: Too much information…sorry.
Scout: It’s not that…I’m just kind of surprised that you would—
Hamilton: …I am too.
Scout: That’s really harsh…I mean, if you didn’t want to be with her—
Hamilton: I know. Like I said, I replay that moment all the time. And…it’s not that I didn’t want to be with her.
Scout: I find that a little hard to believe.
Hamilton: I admit it; I was scared. Loving her was so easy. That’s really a scary and weird thing. Putting no work into something and getting so much back…it’s too easy.
Scout gives him a doubting look.
Hamilton: I was a coward and…I paid for it. Luckily, I didn’t have to lose everything and I’ve managed to keep my best friend…
Scout: And you don’t think you’re being a coward now?
Hamilton looks a little angry at this.
Scout cont’d: No offense, but…staying with a girl that you don’t love…
Hamilton: I love her.
Scout shakes his head, knowing he can’t figure this out.
Scout: Okay. Let’s just play ball, okay?
Hamilton grabs the ball from Scout’s hands and takes a shot.
(dissolve to): Jill in the kitchen cooking. Scout walks in from the living room. He looks like he’s had a good work out from playing basketball.
Scout: Honey…I’m home.
Jill looks up, smiling.
Scout cont’d: I never get to say that…I’m always home before you.
Scout walks over to Jill, kissing her on the cheek then neck. He bends down and kisses her stomach then stands back up. He smiles.
Jill: Are you happy?
He leans toward her slightly, touching her arm.
Scout: More than you probably imagine.
Jill: Would you still be as happy if I asked you to take a shower?
Scout chuckles. He steps back a little.
Scout: I told Hamilton…about the baby.
Jill: What’d he say?
Scout: I think his exact words were “oh my God…holy shit.” He freaked a little when I suggested maybe he and Julie would—
Jill: Ew! Don’t even say that.
Scout: Ironically, that’s about the same reaction I got out of him. I couldn’t figure out anything about Jake, though. Sorry.
Jill: Did you even ask him about her?
Scout: Uh…not really.
Jill: That bad, huh?
Scout looks down.
Scout: I think I heard more than I wanted to tonight.
Jill: Meaning?
Scout: Meaning that guy has some issues. It’s like…he realizes stuff, but won’t admit it.
Jill: Like that he’s in love with Jacqueline?
Scout: Among other things…maybe. I couldn’t figure it out, though, and he didn’t come out and say specifically that so…I’m not sure.
Jill: Maybe I should have just talked to him myself…you seem kind of—
Scout: I’m going to go take a shower.
He turns to go and Jill watches him, a little perplexed over what he wasn’t telling her. Before he gets out the door, he turns around, grinning. Jill tilts her head.
Jill: What?
Scout: We’re having a baby.
Jill: Yes, we are.
Scout: I just like saying it.
She grins, totally in love with this guy…this life. He looks back with similar sentiments. A beat.
Scout: Hey, did you tell Jake?
Jill: Not yet.
Scout: Can I?
Jill: She’s coming over around nine…I told her I wanted her to look at some stuff I’m working on. We can tell her together.
Scout: You know, why don’t I walk her over since it’ll be dark?
Jill tilts her head, but trusts him enough not to ask.
Jill: Okay…sounds like a smart idea.
Scout: Oh, man, I have to call Will.
Jill: Shower first, Dear.
Scout nods and walks out happily.
(dissolve to): Jake in her apartment at her computer. This is the first time we’ve seen it. It’s how you would expect her apartment to look. Nothing too frilly or fancy, but definitely an air of sophistication. It’s neat. It doesn’t seem huge, but it seems big enough. We’re in her living room. There’s a couch facing the door. Her computer is at a desk and she is typing. A cat comes walking around the corner with a meow.
Jake: Hey…
The cat is pretty old, over nine years. He’s an orange tabby…yes, it’s the cat. Jake picks him up and sets him in her lap as she continues to type.
Jake: Never hurts to keep up correspondence with old British friends.
The cat meows.
Jake: You’re right…talking to your cat is pretty creepy. I’ll stop.
She happens to glance up at the clock.
(cut to): the clock, which reads “9:02.”
Jake cont’d: Shit.
Jake hits send and stands up, setting the cat down. There is a knock at her door. She looks at the cat like “expecting company?” She walks over to the door opening it. Scout is standing in her doorway.
Jake: What are you doing here?
Scout: I thought you might want someone to walk with…since it’s so late and all.
Jake: Uh-huh…did Jill send you?
Scout: Not really. I just thought it might give us the chance to talk about a few things.
Jake looks very perplexed by this, but grabs a coat and nudges Scout out of the doorway and into the hall.
(cut to): a shot in the hall as Jake locks her door.
Jake: Let’s talk and walk…I don’t have all night.
Scout nods.
(cut to): the street as they walk toward Scout’s apartment.
Jake: So…what’s the topic of discussion?
Scout: Um…I was playing basketball with Hamilton today.
Jake: Well, that’s fascinating. Who won?
Scout: You never told Jill what happened with Hamilton…before your graduation…did you?
Jake: Sure I did.
Scout: But…not the play by play?
Jake looks up at him. She stops walking.
Jake: No…not the play by play.
Scout: I didn’t think so.
Jake: Why?
Scout: Because…Jill wouldn’t be talking to him, let alone in business with him, if she knew...if she knew everything.
Jake: Well, I know…and I’m in business with him.
Scout: You’re very forgiving.
Jake: Look, whatever he said to you, Scout…it wasn’t that dramatic…or traumatic.
He turns to start walking again.
Jake: Did he say…
Scout stops and turns around again. Jake looks down…very hurt by the memory.
Jake cont’d: Did he say why?
Scout: Uh…
Jake: I mean…did he say what I did or said to make him…was I pushing too hard? I could never remember which of us suggested I move in with him…was it me?
Scout: No…no…he…he didn’t really—
Jake: …or did he just pull the coward routine?
Scout: Yeah…yeah he did…
Jake: Then he’s still a coward. Come on…
She turns to walk again. Scout sighs and follows her.
(cut to): the apartment. Jill is in her studio working on a painting…probably some unobvious mother theme happening in it. She looks up as the sound of the front door startles her. She smiles and exits the studio.
(cut to): Scout and Jake as they come in.
Scout: Okay, sit down on the couch while I go get Jill.
Jake: What? Scout, I’ll just go back to the studio.
Jill walks down the hallway from the studio.
Jill: Hey.
Jake: Hi…where’s—
Scout: Can you just sit down?
Jake looks back and forth between them. They both look pretty happy and despite her bad mood, she can’t help smiling.
Scout nods to the couch.
Jake cont’d: Fine…
She rolls her eyes and marches over to the couch, sitting down. Jill walks over and sits on the coffee table in front of her and Scout sits next to Jill.
Jill: I don’t really have any new stuff to show you, but I do have some big news…
Scout: Huge really…huge news.
Jill looks at him and smiles. He looks at her and she nods.
Jake: What? Come on…you guys are freaking me out.
Scout reaches over and takes Jill’s hand.
Jake looks at Jill first, processing. Jill smiles.
Jake: Oh my God…holy shit…
Jill and Scout look at each other…recognizing the expression.
Jake: You guys…that’s great.
She leans forward hugging them both in one embrace.
Jake: Wow…I mean…wow…
She leans back again, looking at them.
Jake cont’d: Well…I think that pretty much negates my bad mood.
Jill: Bad mood? What bad mood?
She looks at Scout questioningly.
Jake: Just in general…typical pessimistic outlook on life…
Jill: Yeah, right…what’s going on?
Jake: Can I get away with saying I don’t want to ruin this moment by talking about it?
Jill looks at her, a little sad, but she perks up.
Jill: Okay…
Jake: A baby? A baby. I’m so happy for you guys…congratulations…
(cut to): Jill and Scout who look pretty happy themselves.
(cut to): Hamilton’s apartment. He’s in the kitchen doing dishes. Julie walks in, but Hamilton doesn’t notice, he’s pretty lost in thought right now. Julie walks up behind him and puts her arms around hit waist. He snaps out of it and turns his head back to give her a kiss.
Julie: Penny for your thoughts…
Hamilton looks down at the dishes.
Hamilton: We’re almost out of Dawn.
Julie let’s go of him and steps back.
Julie: How romantic.
He turns around, drying his hands on a towel. He puts his hands on her waist and smiles devilishly.
Hamilton: Sorry…I can be romantic.
She smiles and runs her hand up his arm not stopping until she reaches the back of his neck. He takes her other hand and gently leads it up so that she has her arms around his neck, but she’s still a good distance away. He leans forward, kissing her briefly then pulling back. His playfulness has faded a little as he leans in for another kiss.
Julie: I love you.
Hamilton briefly hesitates, then tries to kiss her again. She pulls back.
Julie cont’d: I love you.
Hamilton stares at her, mustering the nerve to say it back. She drops her arms, crossing them in front of her.
Hamilton: I…did I tell you that Jill and Scout are having a baby?
Julie: What? Who cares?
Hamilton: I do. I mean, my best friends are going to be parents…that’s huge.
Julie: And me saying that I love you is…less huge?
Hamilton: It’s not the first time you’ve said it…that we’ve said it.
Julie: Well, we seem to be having trouble saying it tonight.
Hamilton has an epiphany.
Hamilton: I’m an idiot.
Julie smiles, expecting him to go in a direction that she’ll like.
Hamilton cont’d: Saying I love you…I thought that was the brave thing to do.
Julie: Brave?
Hamilton: If I tell you I love you…I’ll have never been more of a coward.
Julie gets hostile.
Julie: You are so fucking screwed up.
Hamilton looks insulted.
Julie cont’d: You’re just so sensitive, aren’t you? Well, you’re also selfish. You act like being in this relationship makes you some kind martyr. Like, I’m the bad guy impending your quest to find perfect love. I mean, get over yourself…you’re not that special. You take your own feelings way too seriously and, I’m sick of it. I should have left last weekend when I had the chance…I’m out of here.
She walks out.
Hamilton: No, no..wait…
He walks after her.
Hamilton cont’d: I need you, J-Julie…I…
Julie: You don’t need me; you need a shrink.
Hamilton: Wh-what?
Julie: You are in some serious denial.
Hamilton: Denial? Denial about what?
Julie: You know; I don’t…that’s the problem, but you’re using this relationship and me. I can’t believe it’s taken me so long to realize this. I’m leaving; I’m out of here and out of this fucked up little world you’ve created to hide from your problems…or, your fears. You’re right; you are a coward.
She walks out. Hamilton walks over to the kitchen table and sits down. He looks around, angry. He gets up and shoves the chair under the table so hard that is falls over. He leans against the wall and slides down it until he is sitting on the floor. He draws his knees up and puts his arms out on them with clasped hands. He looks generally pissed off and upset.
(dissolve to): an establishing shot of a New York street.
(cut to): The living room of Jake’s apartment. The lights are off.
(cut to): her bedroom. She’s lying in her bed.
(cut to): an overhead shot of Jake. She’s lying on her back, with the covers pulled up under her arms. She’s not even close to asleep. She stares at the ceiling, past the camera. It’s hard to read, but her look isn’t unlike Hamilton’s…a sort of angry acceptance mixed with utter confusion…a completely torn expression.
(dissolve with): the shot of Hamilton on the floor in his kitchen. The comparison is now even more obvious. Neither of them move. The shot holds like this for a few seconds.
(flashback to): the living room of Hamilton’s apartment, three years ago. No one is in there, but there are voices coming from another room.
(cut to): the bathroom. Hamilton is at the sink, washing his face and Jake stands in the doorway. He stands up, reaching for a towel without being that close to it. Jake pulls the hand towel off of the rack and hands it to him. He takes it and stands up completely, drying his face off, not realizing where the towel came from. Jake rolls her eyes and smiles. Hamilton looks at the towel then at her, getting it.
Hamilton: Thanks.
She smiles. He walks over to the doorway, putting one hand on either side of the doorframe.
Hamilton cont’d: I’m not going to the party if you’re not.
Jake: I have a bunch of stuff to get packed up.
Hamilton: Well, I’ll come over and help you.
Jake: My mom and I are doing like a final bonding night thing…I can’t believe I’ve been living in that house for the past four years…I didn’t even live there in high school.
Hamilton shrugs.
Hamilton: It’s probably cheaper than a dorm room in this city…definitely cheaper than this apartment.
Jake: Well, I’m really glad that I’m getting out of there.
Hamilton: Yeah…me too.
He grins and leans in, kissing her. When he pulls back:
Hamilton cont’d: Well, I’m definitely not going to this thing without you…what’ll I do without you?
He seems slightly distracted by what he’s just said and doesn’t quite hear her next comment.
Jake: Get wasted with a bunch of lame freshmen frat rats?
He’s still distracted.
Jake cont’d: Hey…isn’t that your cue?
Hamilton: Uh…what’d you say?
Jake: That you could get drunk.
Hamilton: What? You know I don’t drink.
A beat. Jake leans toward him, putting her forehead to his.
Jake: You okay?
Hamilton: Yeah…no, yeah…I’m fine…I’m…fine.
He kisses her quickly, but with great sincerity.
Hamilton cont’d: Should I go?
Jake: Yes. Go. Definitely.
(flash forward to): the overhead shot of Jake in her bed. Maybe she’s been replaying this memory. She’s very obviously crying.
(cut to): Hamilton in the same position as before. Julie walks by carrying a bag. Hamilton doesn’t look up as she continues on and slams the front door on her way out. He flinches as the door slams.
(flashback to): graduation morning three years ago. It’s the same shot from before as Jake walks out, leaving her box. The door falls closed behind her.
(fade out): to black.
(fade in): to FPT Inc. It’s the next day and about seven a.m., but lights are on.
(cut to): inside. Jake is sitting at her desk. She’s got both her legs pulled up in the chair and is staring at the computer screen. The camera pans around so that it is behind her shoulder. The computer screen is blank. The door unlocks as Hamilton walks in carrying a small paper bag. The camera tilts up as he walks in. Once he gets close to the counter he sees Jake.
(cut to): a medium shot from the side including both of them. Hamilton walks past the counter. He walks on to his desk looking at her a little suspiciously.
Hamilton: Today is my day, right?
Jake: I don’t know about that, but…yes…it’s your day to be in early.
He notices the blank computer screen as he leans against his desk.
Hamilton: Um…are you doing the scary psycho killer thing on purpose?
Jake gives him a dirty look and leans forward, turning her computer on.
Hamilton cont’d: Bagel?
He pulls the bagel out of the bag.
Jake: You’ve only got one.
Hamilton: Yes, but…
He pulls it apart.
Hamilton cont’d: I’ve got two halves.
He holds it out to her, but doesn’t move so that she has to get up to retrieve her half. She does so reluctantly.
Jake: Stop being charming…
He smiles and pulls out a knife and some cream cheese, handing it to her.
Jake cont’d: I’m serious…I’m really mad at you.
Hamilton looks a little confused by that.
Hamilton: I knew I should’ve got the orange juice too.
Jake looks at the bagel in her hands, then at his. He’s given her the bigger half. The whole bagel thing has really thrown her off, but, after taking a deep breath, she pursues what she intended to:
Jake: What made you think it was a good idea to tell Scout?
He’s busted and he knows it. He puts his half of the bagel back into the bag and sets it down. Jake sets hers down on his desk.
Hamilton: Tell Scout what?
Jake: The “play by play” as he called it.
Hamilton: It wasn’t like I was bragging about it or something.
Jake: Yeah, well…I wouldn’t think so.
Jake cont’d: I think that’s one story that isn’t yours to tell.
He nods.
Jake cont’d: I mean, God, Hamilton…if I’d wanted Scout to know, I would have told Jill. And, telling Jill would have just been…bad. First, she would have probably personally tried to kill you, which would not have put the three of us on such great terms to do this…
She indicates the office.
Jake cont’d: And besides that…don’t you think that it’s embarrassing for me? Scout looked like he just wanted to hug me or…shoot me and put me out of my misery.
Hamilton: I—
She seems unprepared to follow through with what she’s started, but she realizes that there’s no turning back. She interrupts:
Jake: Hang on…that morning three years ago was the single worst experience of my life. It took me a long time to not have that be the first thought that popped in my head when I thought about you. And, when we started hanging out again…it was the same struggle all over again. And, the fact that you just told him like it was no big deal…
She stops as her voice cracks; she starts to cry as she continues:
Jake cont’d: And I’ve been sitting there trying to build some strength for the past hour so that I could say that to you without doing…this…when you come in with your stupid bagel halves and make me momentarily forget how mad I am at you…
Hamilton doesn’t know what to say or do. He finally collapses into his chair and puts his head in his hands.
Hamilton: I’m sorry.
He looks up at her, practically in tears himself.
Hamilton cont’d: I know I couldn’t say that enough times in my life to make everything right, but if you only knew how much I mean it…if you knew how much I feel it…everyday. That’s what enters my mind when I think of you…when I see you. I…I told Scout because I wanted him to hate me for it, but…I…I don’t want you to hate me.
Jake: Just stop, Hamilton.
She wipes off her face.
Jake cont’d: Tell Jill I’m home sick…make her believe it because the last thing I want to do is stress her out right now, okay?
He nods weakly. She turns and walks out, not taking anything with her. He watches her for a moment then sheds a few tears of his own. In a moment of utter disappointment and dejection, he puts his head down on his desk.
(dissolve to): the front of the building, a little later. Jill is unlocking the door.
(cut to): Hamilton at his desk, with his head still down. Jill gets past the counter and notices him. She tilts her head. She puts her stuff down on her own desk and starts to walk over to him.
Hamilton: I’m not asleep and…I don’t want to talk about it.
She walks over and places a hand on the back of his neck.
Jill cont’d: Sweetie…everyone’s going to start getting here soon so…
He nods with his head still down. He takes a deep breath then picks his head up. His hair is pressed onto his forehead and he pushes it back, running both hands through it. He hasn’t been sitting there weeping or anything, just thinking…I mean, we’re not talking tears still running down his face, but he looks bad anyway. Jill, though, seems to decide against the “you look like Hell” comment. He doesn’t look at Jill at first, but she watches him as he picks up the bag with his bagel in it. He notices Jake’s half, still on the desk. He picks that up too and puts it back into the bag, throwing it all into the trash can under his desk.
Hamilton: Hey, um…Jake’s not coming in today, okay? She called and she’s really sick.
Jill looks a little worried.
Hamilton cont’d: Um…not really sick, you know…just a little under-the-weather. Nothing to worry about.
As he says this he remembers the reason for no stress and he smiles.
Jill: Look happier about her being sick.
Hamilton: Shut up…mom.
He stands up, grinning and giving her a hug.
Hamilton cont’d: Congratulations.
Jill: Thank you.
He keeps hugging her and she seems to sense something is wrong. She doesn’t push, though. Instead, she keeps hugging him.
(dissolve to): the end of the day. A group of employees is leaving. Hamilton is at a layout board with a light underneath. He is examining some negatives. Jill is at her desk, typing up something on the computer. When she finishes, she flips the monitor off and walks over to him.
Jill: I like that one. I saw it earlier.
Hamilton: Well, I had it narrowed down between that one and another one so…choice made.
Jill: I think I’m going to head out.
Hamilton seems pretty focused on the pictures.
Jill cont’d: If you wanted to talk…you would, right?
Hamilton looks at her.
Hamilton: I…yeah, of course.
Jill: Good.
She puts her arm around him a moment in a comforting gesture, then starts to walk away.
Hamilton: I just…had a rough night last night followed by a less than wonderful morning…which made today feel really long…
Jill has turned back toward him.
Hamilton cont’d: …and horrible…and, bad…I feel…bad…very bad…
He doesn’t look up, he just talks.
Hamilton cont’d: And, I…can’t…deal…with the guilt anymore…but…I can’t…get away from it…I’ve tried…I mean…I’ve really tried to get away from it…then I tried to deal with it…nothing works. I want to make it better, but…
He looks at her, finally.
Hamilton cont’d: I can’t, Jill…I just can’t…
She thinks for a moment, not wanting to throw out her usual insults.
Jill: Maybe instead of focusing on making it better you could work on…moving on. Then you’re not stuck in some moment. It’s like that old U2 song.
Hamilton: You don’t know everything that happened in the past…it’s just not that easy.
Jill: You had sex with someone else…okay…I’ve honestly wondered if you didn’t just make that up as an easy out of a relationship that suddenly got commitment-heavy.
Hamilton: I’m not anti-commitment…I wish things were that easy…I could just play my “I’m a guy” card and I wouldn’t feel like this.
Jill: Did something happen?
Hamilton: Julie moved out last night.
Jill: Oh…
Hamilton: I shouldn’t be talking to you…I mean, you have other things on your mind…which are so much cooler than this, by the way…
He actually smiles for the first time in the conversation.
Jill: I’ve got like the next six months to think about that so…I think I can spare a few minutes on you.
Hamilton looks at her, glad that she said this.
Jill cont’d: Why don’t we get out of here? We can walk around or something?
(dissolve to): Hamilton and Jill walking through a park.
Jill: So…I’m confused.
They have reached a bench and Hamilton stops walking and sits down. Jill sits down as she continues talking:
Jill cont’d: I mean…are you upset over her moving out or…what she said?
Hamilton: I think I should say both.
Jill raises her eyebrows.
Hamilton cont’d: I’m just…I’m mad that she was right and that she left because of it…mad at myself, you know? For letting her figure it out…before I did. Mad that…that I couldn’t say “I love you” back to her and live with myself.
Jill: Yeah…she was a sweet girl…
Hamilton has his head tilted down. He glances up at her, smiling.
Hamilton: You hate her, don’t you?
Jill looks apologetic, but in agreement with his statement.
Jill: Sorry…
Hamilton: And…does Jake…Jacqueline hate her too?
Jill: She would never say it even if she did. She has this respect for you…and your relationship with Julie…former relationship…
Hamilton nods. A beat.
Jill cont’d: It was easier for her when she was with Eric, but I think she was doing kind of what you were…hiding behind that relationship because she couldn’t be in the one she wanted to be in—
Hamilton: Wait…wait…don’t misread what I’m saying here. Saying that I wasn’t in love with Julie and that I’m still in love with…I mean…that’s not what I’m saying.
Jill: All right.
Hamilton: You’re…you’re less disapproving than Scout…not something I would have guessed.
Jill: I have a feeling that you told him stuff that you didn’t tell me. Last night, he looked pretty…shocked, to say the least.
Hamilton: Yeah…shocked enough to tell her that I told him, apparently. That didn’t go over so well.
Jill: When she called—
Hamilton: She didn’t call. She was there before I was this morning.
Jill: Ah…
Hamilton: She would probably kill me if she knew I was talking to you…she was so mad I told Scout…
Jill: …this was about…the cheating?
Hamilton: I don’t need you to hate right now and…it’s not my story to tell, anyway.
Jill: In that case…I don’t think I want to know.
He closes his eyes a moment, like Jake did earlier, trying to erase the memory…unsuccessfully. Jill puts her arm around him, standing up while pulling him up too.
Jill: Come on, Mr. Pouty Man…
Hamilton smiles.
Hamilton: This has been…soothing.
Jill: Want to come home with me for dinner?
Hamilton: I think I’m going to go home…enjoy the emptiness of my apartment.
Jill: Okay…well…call me later or something. Give me a proof of life?
Jill gives him another big, long hug.
Jill: You’ll be fine. Remember…the future is what’s important.
Hamilton: Yeah…
They part and he gives her a mischievous look. She raises her eyebrows questioningly and he takes a knee…talking to her stomach.
Hamilton: Listen…your mom is real smart so…listen to what she tells you. Don’t tell her everything, though, because she’ll do what it takes to protect you…but that’s just her way of showing that she loves you. She’s cool like that…just ask your Aunt Jacqueline.
A group of girls walk by, giggling at them.
Jill: God, get up…people are going to think you’re proposing.
Hamilton laughs. He stands up.
Hamilton: You’re going to be a good mom, Jill.
Jill: Have I said how happy I am?
Hamilton: No, but…I know. You should have seen Scout…I think he was thrilled to be able to tell me...tell someone.
Jill: He’s been wonderful.
Hamilton: Anyway…I’ve kept you too long.
He takes a step back, indicating they’ll be leaving in opposite directions.
Hamilton cont’d: This, by the way…
He gestures to her stomach.
Hamilton cont’d: …has an amazing ability to negate the way I’ve been feeling.
Jill smiles.
(dissolve to): Scout and Jill in their living room. Scout is sitting on the couch and Jill, lying down, has her head on his lap. Scout has one hand on her stomach. She has both her hands over his hand. He’s running his other hand through her hair.
Scout: Well, he was definitely right about two things…you didn’t hear everything that happened and you are surprisingly forgiving…
He looks down and she looks up.
Scout cont’d: …but, you were right about the past too…I should have thought of that.
Jill: When I walked into the office…he just looked like such crap…I almost said that to him, but…I was afraid he’d start crying.
Scout: This has quickly spiraled into a bad situation. It seemed like everything was just getting normal with them.
Jill: How could anything ever be normal with “Jake” and Hamilton?
Scout: Relatively normal, then.
Jill: Speaking of relatives, I called my dad today.
Scout: Did you tell him?
Jill: Uh-huh…I think he was crying…in a good way.
Scout: I’ve been trying to figure out how to tell my dad why the hyphenated last name is important to us.
Jill closes her eyes as she continues talking to him:
Jill: If he’s set on Calhoun…I could deal with that.
Scout: You could?
Jill: It is the name of a man I happen to love very very very much.
Scout: You’re going to have to be pregnant more often…it has put you in a very very very agreeable mood.
Jill: Yeah…I’d say yes to about anything…
Scout: Well…let me not miss that opportunity.
(cut to): Jake’s apartment. Jake is pacing around the living room, carrying the cat.
Jake: This is beyond pathetic. I’m a grown woman, for God’s sake.
She sets the cat down and walks over to the phone with purpose. We’re fully convinced that she’ll make the call. She gets as far as placing her hand on it when she turns abruptly. The cat looks up at her from the couch.
Jake cont’d: …shut up.
He meows and walks toward her. She sighs.
Jake cont’d: It’s hard not to miss him, huh?
The cat meows again. Jake walks over and pets him.
Jake cont’d: And you’ve never even had his coffee…that’s some good stuff.
She looks at the cat a minute longer then turns to the phone.
(cut to): Hamilton’s apartment. He has his cordless phone in one hand and sits on his bed. In his other hand is a coffee cup. He takes a sip from it and sets it down on the nightstand. He dials.
(cut to): Jill and Scout’s living room, above the couch. The phone rings. The camera pans around until it reaches their phone that rings again. The camera pans again until it reaches the couch where Jill and Scout are definitely getting into foreplay territory. They’re sitting up and Scout is unbuttoning Jill’s shirt, kissing her. The phone rings again and Scout looks over at it then up at her. She looks at him like “do you really want to answer that?” He gets the hint and turns back to her, kissing her. The phone rings again.
(cut to): Jake as she finishes dialing. She’s calling him. She gets a busy signal. She slams down the phone.
Jake: Dammit, Hamilton…
(cut to): Hamilton. He holds the phone away from his ear and turns it off, tossing it onto the bed. He looks over at it.
Hamilton: Don’t be stupid…
He looks at his cup of coffee thinking of taking another sip. He picks up the phone.
Hamilton cont’d: You have no idea what you’re going to say…
Hamilton cont’d: Talking to yourself like a character in a soap opera…you do need a shrink…God, this is so ridiculous.
He dials a number.
(cut to): Jake’s apartment. She’s standing by the phone so when it rings, she’s pretty startled. She picks it up hesitantly.
Jake: Hello?
(cut to): Hamilton’s apartment. He hesitates a moment.
Jake: …Hello?
Hamilton: Hi.
(slide to): a split screen so that we can see them both. Hamilton is still seated on his bed. Jake is pacing.
Jake: Hi…weird…I just tried to call you.
Hamilton: I was…trying to call Jill…about work…
Jake: Oh…
Hamilton: …which is not why I’m calling you…at all.
Jake stops pacing. Hamilton stands up. Hamilton doesn’t continue.
Jake: Why are you calling?
Hamilton: Uh…why were you calling me?
Jake: I asked you first.
Hamilton: You called me first…
Jake hesitates, looking around. She looks at the cat who seems pretty uninterested as he cleans his face with his paws.
Jake: You haven’t been by to see your cat in…awhile.
Hamilton smiles at the bluff.
Hamilton: No…I haven’t.
They both start to talk.
Hamilton: What?
He sits down again.
Jake: I don’t know.
She walks over to the couch and sits on the arm.
Hamilton: Ever feel like…fifteen again?
Jake: Like right now?
Hamilton laughs. A beat.
Jake: I was calling because…
Hamilton: You know…maybe we could just not talk about it.
Hamilton: Anything other than…the future.
Jake: You talked to Jill, didn’t you?
Hamilton doesn’t say anything.
Jake cont’d: It’s okay…it just…sounded like something she would say.
Hamilton: Exceedingly optimistic?
Jake: Yeah.
Hamilton: Can you believe she’s having a baby?
Jake smiles, and moves from the arm of the couch to actually sitting on it. She leans against the arm.
Jake: It’s amazing. I guess she’s got room to be optimistic.
Hamilton leans back against the headboard of his bed and pulls one of his legs onto the bed.
Hamilton: …and we don’t?
Jake: I don’t know, Hamilton. Life hasn’t been pushing me in that direction lately.
Hamilton: Maybe…maybe we haven’t been pushing life in that direction.
Jake: You really have been talking to Jill.
Hamilton: I came up with that one on my own actually.
Ham leans forward again as Jake puts her elbows on her knees.
Jake: I don’t know what to do here…
Hamilton: It’s so hard…knowing you’re never going to be able to forgive me…it’s like…my own personal hell. I’ve been thinking about it non-stop lately.
Jake is tired of this constant “do you still hate me?” game.
Jake: Hamilton…I forgave you a long time ago…everything’s just kind of blown up lately…I don’t understand it at all….
Hamilton: You forgave me? How could you have—
Jake: It’s not the forgiving that’s the hard part.
She pauses. Hamilton is anxious to here more.
Jake cont’d: What’s hard is forgetting. Three years ago and…I remember that morning better than I remember this morning, but…you’re important to me and I’m willing to put the work into…moving on.
Hamilton: Should we…be doing this in person?
Jake: Doing what?
Hamilton: Recovering our friendship. I really need to get my best friend back.
She puts one hand on her temple as she continues to hold the phone with the other.
Jake: So do I…
Hamilton: Should I—
Jake: No…um…
She searches for the right words. She gets up and paces again.
Jake cont’d: Let’s…take Jill’s advice. Tomorrow, there will be no past.
Hamilton: And we just…start over?
Jake: Yeah…a new start.
Hamilton: A clean slate?
Jake: …metaphorically, yes.
Hamilton: O—okay.
Jake: Okay. Goodbye, Hamilton.
Hamilton: Goodb—goodnight.
They both hesitate before hanging up. Finally, Jake hangs up her phone as Ham presses the button on his.
(slide to): a shot with just Jake; her hand is still on the phone. She looks over at the cat…Hamilton’s cat.
Jake: Don’t mock me…I can do this.
(cut to): Hamilton. He spreads out on his bed.
Hamilton: I hope I can do this.
(flashback to): graduation from college. They went somewhere like Felicity’s University of New York. Graduates fill seats, rows of people in black graduation gowns. The shot starts behind the graduates facing the stage as a speaker gives a talk about history…and opportunity.
(cut to): Hamilton. He looks terrible. He hasn’t shaved and he is very tired, but neither of those is worse than the expression on his face. He looks around then over to the area where he knows Jake should be sitting, but isn’t. He closes his eyes tightly. His expression says nothing more or less than “what have I done?”
(cut to): Jake’s house.
(cut to): her bedroom. None of her stuff is left. We assume it’s all been packed up and moved to another room. Jake is sitting on the bed with her knees drawn up tightly to her chest. Her arms are wrapped around her knees and her head is down. She’s crying…hard. She’s rocking back and forth very slightly. The camera begins to spin slowly around her and…
(fade to): black
(flash forward)
(fade in): to FPT Inc. the next day.
(cut to): inside. Jake is standing by a coffee pot near the back of the office. In this area there is a mini fridge, water cooler, that kind of thing. She watches eagerly, cup in hand, as the coffee drips down into the pot. She sighs impatiently and pulls the pot out and pours the little bit that is in it in her cup as coffee drips on to the hotplate. There is the noise of the door unlocking. Jake quickly puts the pot back and walks toward her desk.
(cut to): Jill as she hurriedly walks past the counter carrying a portfolio.
Jill: I know it’s my day to be early, but I—
Jake: No big deal. I’ve been here for a while so…everything’s under control.
Jake takes a sip of her coffee. Jill takes the cup from her.
Jake cont’d: Hey.
Jill: You don’t need this.
Jake takes it back.
Jake: This morning…I need it.
Jill tilts her head.
Jill: You weren’t trying to call me last night?
Jake: Um…nope. That was Hamilton actually.
Jill: Proof of life…oops…
Jake: Huh? Never mind…
Jill: So…
Jake: I called him…well, he called me…anyway, we talked last night and…he said what you suggested to him about concentrating on the future.
Jill: And then he came over and you guys officially made out—up…made up?
Jill smirks.
Jake: No…we decided that today was a fresh start.
Jill looks skeptical.
Jill: You know…that whole future spiel…I mean, he was really depressed, Jacqueline. Like depressed like you were three years ago. You’ve never seen dwelling like this. So…I gave him the future speech like I gave it to you the