1

EXT. GABRIEL'S MANSION
If the grass is always greener on the other side, then this is the other side.  A beautifully manicured garden sweeps up to spectacular stone edifice. It's unbelievable that anyone could afford to live in this house.

CHERUB �CHERRY" CHAMBERS, twenty-eight and still smokin� hot, pulls up the long drive, parks in the turn around.  As she leaves the car she is taken aback by the beauty and immensity of the place.

INT. FOYER
A fabulous entryway, one you would expect from this mansion.  The doorbell rings with fanfare.  GABRIEL, twenty-eight, looks in a mirror and practices his Hollywood smile as he rushes down to do his hostly duty.

A moment of uncomfortable and self-conscious silence as two old friends realise they have nothing to say to one another.

Then Gabriel�s acting lessons kick in. He smiles his practiced smile.

GABRIEL
Cherub �Cherry� Chambers!  You look great.

Cherry should have been an actress too.  

CHERRY
It�s Cher now.  

And she mimics a moment of HALF-BREED to which Gabriel has nothing to say.

GABRIEL
Very good.  

He claps politely.  Cherry wanders in, in awe.

CHERRY
Not really. You should know, I have no talent,  but you do, Gabriel.  Loved your movies, well, I only actually saw one, but I�this house is fantastic.

He closes the door.  Cherry turns toward him.  Another moment of awkward silence.

CHERRY
Anybody else here?

GABRIEL
Not yet.

Even more awkward silence.  Cherry looks around.  

CHERRY
Did I tell you this is fantastic house?

GABRIEL
Yes.

CHERRY
That�s because it is.

GABRIEL
Thank�

The doorbell rings. Thank God.

CHERRY
Yay! Someone�s here!

A grimace at Cherry from Gabriel but it doesn�t stop him hurrying to the door and opening it. Cherry can�t see who it is. More practiced smiles from Gabriel.

GABRIEL
Jimmy!

The name hits Cherry like a hot wind.

CHERRY
Jimmy?

JIMMY, twenty-eight, still looks like a boy scout, stands outside the door.  Then he reaches in and gives Gabriel a big heartfelt hug.  

JIMMY
Gabriel!

Gabriel isn�t certain how to react but he manages to act his way through it.

Then Jimmy spots Cherry.  The spark fly. Jimmy forgets about Gabriel.

JIMMY
Cherry?!  You haven�t aged a day�  

CHERRY
Sure I have.

JIMMY
You�re still just a beautiful as the day I met you.

CHERRY
You think. Really?

JIMMY
Really.

And they hug. Gabriel watches uncomfortably. When Jimmy pulls in a bit closer to Cherry and they kiss, Gabriel clears his throat.

GABRIEL
I have food to prepare. So why don�t the two of you go upstairs, find your rooms and -- and -- unpack.

They don�t seem to hear.

GABRIEL
I�ll be in the kitchen.

He waits a moment, then exits.

INT. KITCHEN
The kitchen is big enough and stainless steel enough to feed an army.  The blender whirs green stuff.  Gabriel is at the refrigerator where he pulls out a large plate of appetizer when the door bell rings.

He places the plates on the island countertop and turns off the blender when the door bell rings again.  He exits.

INT. FOYER
The door is opened by Gabriel and RODDY �BURNER� BURNSIDE, twenty-eight, stands tall and imposingly just outside.

BURNER
Gabriel! Gabriel! Gabriel!

Gabriel smiles.

GABRIEL
Burner! Burner! Burner!

BURNER
Just Rod now. Great house! How come the butler didn�t answer?

GABRIEL
I wanted it to be�

CHERRY  (O.S)
Did I hear the voice of a Burner?

BURNER
Is that Cherry?  Who else is here?


Burner pushes past Gabriel, who is used to it now,  and hurries in. Jimmy and Cherry walk down a large staircase.

All, except Gabriel, revel in name sharing.  

INT. KITCHEN
Three stand next to the island.  They laugh and munch on appetizer while Gabriel hands out perfect Margaritas.  Gabriel hands one to Burner but Burner refuses.  This action catches everyone�s attention. .

BURNER
I became sober months ago.

And everyone, including Gabriel, laughs.  

CHERRY
You�re so funny, Burner.

He tries to hand the drink to Burner again only to have it refused.

BURNER
You see me laughing?  All the drinking and all the drugs, it was making my life crazy. I couldn�t handle it anymore so, I stopped.

Mood spoiled.  Then Jimmy clears his throat.

JIMMY
A toast.  To Burner�s sobriety.

Everyone�s all  �Here, Here�  except Cherry.

CHERRY
I�ll drink to that.  

INT. LIVING ROOM
Several chairs and couches are placed in small conversational groups. A small, well-stocked bar sits in the back of the room.

Cherry and Jimmy sit very close together on the couch.  You can feel the electricity between them.

CHERRY
�and you never said a word?

JIMMY
Never.  I wanted to. Oh, man, you were incredible.  You are incredible.

They move a bit closer and  kiss. Burner enters the room and clears his throat.  

BURNER
Am I interrupting something?

CHERRY AND JIMMY
Yes!

Cherry and Jimmy scoot away from one another.

BURNER
Good.

He sits on the sofa right in the middle of them. They have to scoot over even more.  He puts his arms around them and shakes them.

BURNER
It�s so good to be here with my old, old  friends.

CHERRY
You too Burn -- Rod, even if you are still a pain in the�

The doorbell rings.

BURNER
Ooo! Someone else is here.  Want to go see who it is?

Both Cherry and Jimmy shake their heads.

BURNER
Guess I�ll just have to go on my ownsome.

Burner stands and leaves the room.  Cherry and Jimmy stare at each other in amazement then they break into a laugh.  

INT. FOYER
Darnell, twenty-nine, looking a bit like a lollipop - skinny as a stick with a big afro on top, stands inside the doorway.  He profusely shakes hand with Gabriel. He is obviously stoned.

DARNELL
�good to be invited.  You look great, so does the house. Who else is�.

Burner enters.  Gabriel give him a look that says �help�.  Burner turns to leave and he�s almost made it when.

DARNELL
BURNER! BURNER! BURNER!

And Darnell grabs him at the waist and gives him a big hug from behind.  Burner watches Gabriel escape toward the kitchen.

Burner, not enjoying the affections, squirms out from Darnell�s grip and turns around.

BURNER
Darnell. Good to see you.

DARNELL
I knew you were coming man.

Darnell pats his bag.

DARNELL
I brought lots of goodies.

BURNER
I don�t do that stuff anymore.

DARNELL
What stuff?

BURNER
Any stuff. I don�t burn anymore so don�t call me Burner.  It�s Rod now.

Darnell laughs.

DARNELL
Wicked!  You still got it man.  You�re sense of humour is legendary.

BURNER
It�s not a joke!

DARNELL
It�s not?  You mean you�re really sober.

Burner nods.

DARNELL
Well, that won�t last long.  So, tell you what.

Darnell opens his bag and fishes around.

DARNELL  
I got some Ekkys in here.  The perfect cure for sobriety.

Burner rolls his eyes.

2

INT. STUDY
Gabriel walks into the study as his phone rings. He picks it up.

GABRIEL
Hello, Gabriel speaking.
(beat)
Hey, Johnny my man, how are ya?

INT. KITCHEN
Darnell leans on the bench. Burner listens to him, bored.

DARNELL
And I ended up spending the night on a bench, which wasn�t actually as bad as you would think. Because I grabbed some leaves, and if you place the leaves in the right spot -

Gabriel enters the room as he puts his mobile in his pocket. Burner seems relieved.

GABRIEL
Johnny�s gonna be late. Something about his Mum taking a wrong turn or something.

BURNER
Typical.

A giggling Cherry enters with Jimmy in arm. They part as they see the others.

CHERRY
May we have another drink please, dear Gabriel?

Gabriel nods and goes to work.

An awkward silence, which is broken by Jimmy coughing.

JIMMY
I think I might have a cold.

DARNELL
I think I have a tablet or two to fix that!

Everyone except Burner laughs.

Burner pours water from a jug into a glass.

JIMMY
I think I�ll pass thanks, who knows what tablets you have!

Every except Burner laughs again. Gabriel passes a drink to Cherry and Jimmy.

CHERRY
I suddenly feel quite parched!

Cherry brings the glass to her lips and empties it. Everyone laughs.

INT. FOYER
Jean-Marie walks straight through the open front door. She looks up at the high ceiling.

Pause.

JEAN-MARIE
Nice.

She takes out a camera and takes a photo of it.

Jean-Marie walks towards the stairs as Cherry bursts into the foyer.

CHERRY
Jeanie!

Cherry sprints towards Jean-Marie and hugs her. Jean-Marie is taken aback.

INT. KITCHEN
Darnell talks to Gabriel.

DARNELL
I brought coke especially, as I�ve heard that�s what you actors have. Or is that just porn stars? I was watching this doco the other day, and the love it. Probably not as much as cock, but close.
(beat)
And that goes for everyone too, if you want some, just ask.

Everyone smiles as Cherry enters with Jean-Marie.

BURNER
Hey Jeana.

GABRIEL
Hey Jeana, welcome to my house. Drink?

JEAN-MARIE
Jean-Marie.

GABRIEL
Sorry? Is that with tequila, or...?

JEAN-MARIE
My name. It�s Jean-Marie, not Jeana. And I would like it if everyone called me by my proper name please.

Awkward silence. Cherry rolls her eyes at Jimmy.

Everyone breaks the silence at once, agreeing to Jean-Maries request. Jean-Marie smiles.

JEAN-MARIE (CONT�D)
Great. Good to be here Gabriel.

She turns to the others.

JEAN-MARIE (CONT�D)
Have you guys seen the pond? It�s really beautiful.

Darnell turns to Gabriel.

DARNELL
Pond? How come I haven�t heard about this?!
(to Jean-Marie)
Lead the way!

Jean-Marie grabs Jimmy�s drink, and walks out of the room with Darnell.

JIMMY
She stole my drink!

GABRIEL
I�ll make you another -

CHERRY
Me too, please!

GABRIEL
Sure. Then a tour of the house?

BURNER
That would be grande, my dear man! I�ve been wanting to check this place out fully for ages. I�ll lead the way!

Burner runs off.

INT. FOYER
Jimmy listen as Gabriel talks and points to a large painting which hangs on the wall.

GABRIEL
Handed down in the family for generations. Very important and special to all involved. Not my family, but I have adopted it as my own.

Gabriel chuckles quietly at his little joke.

JIMMY
And the stairs? Have they been redone, or is that original?

GABRIEL
Well -

Loud music interrupts Gabriel. It sounds like it�s coming from another room.

GABRIEL (CONT�D)
What the hell?

INT. HOME THEATER ROOM
Gabriel enters to find Burner jumping around the room, and Darnell in a chair laughing at him.

BURNER
(to Gabriel)
Great sound quality you got here man!

GABRIEL
What?

Gabriel grabs the remote and turns the sound down. Burner stops dancing.

BURNER
Oh come on, don�t ruin the party.

GABRIEL
There are other people in this house, not just you.

BURNER
Darnell was enjoying it too, weren�t you, man?

Darnell laughs.

DARNELL
I was just enjoying laughing at you dancing!

Cherry and Jean-Marie enter.

BURNER
Guys, guys, guys, you were just a few seconds to late!

Jean-Marie looks at Gabriel. Gabriel clears his throat and looks away.

BURNER (CONT�D)
Wow, tensions are high! Awkward!

Gabriel huffs and turns to Burner.

GABRIEL
You know what, I am so sick -

The doorbell rings. Gabriel sighs and exits the room.

BURNER
What the hells his problem?!

3

INT. FOYER

Gabriel opens the door to reveal FRANCESCA (28, beautiful)  

GABRIEL
Can I help you?

FRANCESCA
Don't you recognize me?

Francesca pouts. Gabriel shakes his head.

FRANCESCA
Let me give you a hint. Drive-in movie...

Gabriel still doesn't get it.

FRANCESCA
I lost my virginity to you.

Gabriel is taken aback. Then he gets it, sort of.

GABRIEL
Frances?

Frances smiles and nods.  She throws her arms out in a girly pose.  

FRANCESCA
Francesca. I had a sex change.

Her arms move down to cover her crotch like a painting of Venus.

FRANCESCA
It's not complete though.

Then she gets serious.

FRANCESCA
How do I look?

Gabriel smiles.

GABRIEL
You look absolutely gorgeous!

FRANCESCA
I so happy you think so.

Francesca throws her arms around Gabriel and kisses him on the cheek.

INT. HOME THEATER ROOM

Gabriel and Francesca enter, arm in arm.

JIMMY
You've been holding out on us.  Who's she?

Cherry knows but says nothing, she watches for the reaction

Burner drinks eyeing Francesca like a snake does his dinner.

Gabriel
Let me introduce Francesca.

BURNER, JIMMY, DARNELL
Hello, Nurse!

Then Gabriel smiles evilly.

GABRIEL
aka Frances.

Burner spits, catching everyone�s attention. There is an awkward moment.

DARRNELL
Frances?

CHERRY
She had a sex change.

FRANCESCA
Surprise.  

Cherry runs over to give her a hug.
  
INT. FOYER
The door opens. Johnny enters, jovially, carrying in a duffle bag.  

JOHNNY
Hello...Anyone?

His listens. He hears VOICES down the hall.

He hears Cherry�s voice.

JOHNNY
(to himself)
Cherry?

He hurries off down the hall.

INT. HOME THEATER ROOM

Johnny enters to spy Cherry as she hugs Francesca.

Jimmy notices him, smiles, waves him over.

Johnny asks 'Who�s Francesca?' with the raise of an eyebrow and Jimmy mouths the word �Frances�.  

CHERRY
Johnny, good to see you.

She hugs him. Johnny�s eyes close in bliss.

She gives him a peck on the cheek then she lets go.

JOHNNY
Good to see you...

But it's too late Cherry has already rushed over to Jimmy�s side. She grabs Jimmy�s hand and gives him a kiss on the lips.

Johnny�s furious.

FRANCES
Hello, Johnny.

JOHNNY
Hi.

FRANCES
How�s everything?

JOHNNY
It sucks.

FRANCES
Obviously, not well enough.

JOHNNY
Pardon.

FRANCES
Never mind. Cheer up, dunderhead.

She touches Johnny shoulder, in support.  Johnny yanks his shoulder away.  Francesca is a bit insulted.

JOHNNY
I'm sorry I'm just not in the mood for this I guess.

Johnny turns and leaves.

CHERRY
What do you think got into him?  I'll go see if he's ok?

JIMMY
No, I'll go, you stay here.

Jimmy rushes off.

Gabriel comes over. He takes Francesca's hand.

FRANCESA
I don't think Johnny likes me anymore.  

GABRIEL
He never liked you.

FRANCESCA
Oh! That's true. Isn't it?

And they laugh.  

BURNER (O.S.)
Gabriel,

Burner stands in front of the sound system.  And let's just say we can tell he's been drinking.

BURNER
Everyone's here.

GABRIEL
Alright then. Everyone let�s go to the living room we'll be much more comfortable there.

Everyone exits except Gabriel and Burner.  

GABRIEL
Move.

BURNER
What?

GABRIEL
Get out.

BURNER
But it's time to crank up the tunes.

GABRIEL
I don�t want you to play with my sound system, you have a habit of breaking things when your drunk.

BURNER
Drunk?

GABRIEL
Just go.

Burner spoofs.

BURNER
Yes, Dad.

And he leaves. Gabriel follows, turning out the lights as he leaves.

INT. LIVING ROOM

GABRIEL
It�s good to have you all here. I hope everyone will have a good time at this very special reunion. Mi Casa, Su Casa, so feel free to do as you please. Except Burner, Burner needs to ask permission.  

Cherry give Burner a slap on the shoulder.

BURNER
He thinks he's my father.

GABRIEL
As far as the evenings activities go, well I do have plans only I'd like to surprise you with them, if you would allow me.

FRANCESCA
Can't you give us a hint?

CHERRY
Pleaze!

GABRIEL
No. I have several bedrooms available so go pick your rooms. I didn�t assign anyone a specific room.

FRANCESCA
What time do you want us back?

GABRIEL
When you're hungry, say about 8:00.

DARNELL
I bet the caterer's bring a fantastic feast.

GABRIEL
I�m going to cook.

BURNER
Oh no! That's it, we're all dead.

FRANCESCA
I bet Gabriel is a great cook. Oh my, I must be tipsy already I almost said cock.

The girls laugh the boy's are a bit uncomfortable.

Gabriel and Francesca share a look.
The group separates.

RING. Darnell goes through his pocket and takes out his cellphone. Looking at it, he shrugs and puts it back.

INT. GUEST ROOM (JOHNNY)  

Johnny throws his duffle bag on the bed and starts unloading it.  

Jimmy enters.

JIMMY
Huh? All the rooms are the same?

Johnny reverses things and packs again.  His lips turn to thin lines.  

JIMMY
Where do you think you're going?

JOHNNY
The fuck away from here?

Jimmy grabs Johnny's arm, spins him around.

JIMMY
Just what is your problem.

Johnny pushes Jimmy away.

JOHNNY
You're my problem.

And pushes again.  Jimmy raises his hands for peace. Johnny stares him down.

JIMMY
What'd I do?

JOHNNY
You couldn't wait to get your hands on her, could you?

Johnny's breathing heavy now.

JIMMY
Who?

JOHNNY
Oh! Give me a break.

JIMMY
I don't know.

JOHNNY
Cherry!

INT. GUEST WING

Darnell strolls quietly down the hall until...

JIMMY (O.S.)
Cherry? Well...uh....we always had this great relationship and...

Darnell stops in front of the open door.

JOHNNY
I knew it...I fucking knew it...

JIMMY
knew what?  

Darnell listens closely.

INT. GUEST ROOM (JOHNNY)

JOHNNY
Knew coming here was a waste of time.  

Johnny turns and walks to his duffel. He starts packing again.

JIMMY
Come on man, don't do this.

Johnny's hand closes around the ring box, he lifts it up and opens it.

JIMMY
If I offended you somehow, I'm sorry.  But please don't leave, it would spoil the weekend for...

Johnny turns, the open case in his hand, the ring sparkles in the light.

JIMMY
I was planning to propose to her.

INT. GUEST WING

Darnell�s eyes go wide as he sees the ring.  

JIMMY (O.S.)
Propose? Uh -- that's fantastic.

JOHNNY (O.S.)
I�m not going to anymore.  Not after what I saw.

JIMMY (O.S.)
That meant nothing. Believe me.  Cherry and I are and always have been just friends.

JOHNNY (O.S.)
She was my first love.

Darnell almost bursts into laughter but maintains control of it. He strolls away.

JIMMY (O.S.)
All the more reason not to quit.  The Johnny I know was no quitter.

4
INT. GUEST WING
Jeana walks into Darnell as she exits her room. She's clearly agitated.

Darnell won't let her past. He stalls her rush with his devious smile of frivolity.

DARNELL
Where ya goin' so fast, Sugar Plum?

JEANA
Not now Darnell. I gotta-

Darnell reveals a doobie.

DARNELL
Huh? Huh?

Jeana shakes her head. Still anxious.

DARNELL (CONT'D)
It'll be like old times...

She rubs her eye for relief. Looks up to him. There's a moment.

JEANA
Not now. Everything's so messed.

DARNELL
How's this for messed? I just heard Johnny say he wanted to propose to Cherry this weekend. He's got a big diamond ring. Big enough to see from the hallway into the the bedroom--

JEANA
You sure you're not smoking already? Let me see your eyes.

Darnell opens his eyes wide.

JEANA (CONT'D)
They look okay to me.

DARNELL
Come see for yourself. Jimmy and Johnny could probably use a referee right about now...

JEANA
I don't know Darnell--

Her cell phone rings. She doesn't bother to look at the caller ID and takes the call.

JEANA (CONT'D)
Hey it's me! Is father alright?

Darnell starts pulling Jeana along while she talks.

Jeana converses with the voice on the other end while being shuttled around the corner by Darnell.

JEANA (CONT'D)
No this can't be. I shouldn't have left him. I have to leave.

Jeana BREAKS FREE from Darnell. Darnell stands, as she disappears around the corner.

He shrugs. Heads to the pond.

INT. LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Gabriel and Burner engage in animated conversation.

GABRIEL
So I asked myself: How do I play a conman when I'm a lousy con?

BURNER
So what did ya do?

Gabriel's eyes alight.

GABRIEL
Pretended I was Darnell!

They both have a good laugh when

Behind them, the sound of pitter patter steps clicking the hardwood floors.

Crash in their world! Gabriel sees Jeana's anxiety and shouts.

GABRIEL (CONT'D)
Jeana!

His voice, so loud and commanding and an apparent coincidence when a SIREN PASSES IN THE DISTANCE from the street outside.

Jeana's an energetic ball of fire and fear as she tries to escape PAST GABRIEL'S CLUTCHES.

Jeana shakes her head "no", ranting about her step father.

JEANA
He's dying, Gabriel!

Ad-lib as Jeana's words fall together: Dying-and-I-left-him-when-he-needed-me-dying-I-don't-know-what-I-was-thinking dy-

At this compressed moment, Gabriel shouts even louder:

GABRIEL
Jeana! Sto...op!

THIS causes the others in the mansion to AWAKE from their individual affairs.

INTERCUT:

INT. GUEST ROOM (JOHNNY)
Both Johnny and Jimmy look up and jump to action, racing towards the sound of what is erupting as an argument.

EXT. POND
Darnell sits peacefully upon the bench smoking his doobie alone. The birds chirp. He takes his shoes and socks off and dips his feet in the pond.

INT. GUEST WING
Cherry and Francis catch up behind Johnny and Jimmy, all racing towards the stairs where the sound of the argument grows to earshot.

INT. LIVING ROOM
Jimmy, Johnny, Cherry and Francesca arrive on scene in the middle of the outrage. Rod is just as confused as the rest.

JEANA
Don't tell me about reason!

INT. LIVING ROOM - SAME TIME

GABRIEL
You CAN'T leave!!!

JEANA
Let me go!!!

Jeana PULLS, but Gabriel GRIPS her firmly.

JEANA (CONT'D)
My stepfather- (she corrects) MY FATHER is dying and you won't let me leave?!

GABRIEL
It's just a ploy for your attention, Jeana. He just wants the control. He just wants the sex.

JEANA
(a LOW voice)
It takes one to know one.

GABRIEL
We had a deal!!

JEANA
No YOU had a deal, Gabriel! And you were too weak to live up to your responsibilities! That's not a deal. That's a cop out.

GABRIEL
How can you judge what I have and haven't done. I've been in LA and you've been in Simply.

JEANA
And whose fault is that?!

GABRIEL
You could have come with me.

JEANA
You could have stayed with me.

GABRIEL
Well now you have a choice, Jeana.

JEANA
My father is dying. I have NO choice! My home is in Simply and you'll never know why. You and your posh! It's not just the posh Gabriel!

GABRIEL
Live life to the fullest! That's what you always said, and that's what I did.

JEANA
LLTF - It isn't just about the posh!

Gabriel RELEASES Jeana's arm. Jeana determines toward the door. Cherry runs after her, grabbing her arm gently.

CHERRY
Jeana at least give yourself some time to calm down.

JEANA
No Cherry, don't. Nothing ever happens when you're satisfied.

Jeana surveys the group, staring in disbelief. She pulls her purse tightly over here shoulder and stares back, unrelenting.

JEANA (CONT'D)
I'm outta here.

She exits, slamming the door behind her.

The group stands silent.

5

INT. LIVING ROOM

Gabriel faces the group with a fake smile.

GABRIEL
Lunch?

CHERRY
Amazing you can think of food at a time like this.

FRANCES
Leave him alone. Hasn�t he been through enough with that bitch?

GABRIEL
Don�t you EVER call her a bitch!

Darnell arrives on scene.

DARNELL
Hey-hey-hey! What�s goin� down on this planet anywho. Aren�t we supposed to be having-

JIMMY
Shut up Darnell.

DARNELL
Sorry James?

JIMMY
I said shut -

Darnell FLIES off. Heads to punch Jimmy. Roddy throws himself between them.

RODDY
Wait man. Just serious shit went down.

DARNELL
Fuckin� better believe it. And like I deserve that? Fuckin� no way. I�ll shut YOU up you child lover. You just keep on pressing my buttons and see what happens big man...

GABRIEL
Stop it! Look, just blame me OK, Darnell? Jimmy never meant anything.

Pause.

Jimmy eases.

DARNELL
Yeah man, just bad shit. Sorry.

JOHNNY
What did she mean by you broke a deal?

GABRIEL
(lying)
Nothing. You know Jeana. She gets crazy confused. Her imagination running wild.

Gabriel clears his throat, looks at the ground.

He suddenly looks up.

GABRIEL
Lunch?

INT. KITCHEN

Gabriel grabs stuff from the cupboards. His anger and stress results in the DROPPING of a glass. It shatters just as Frances arrives.

Gabriel grabs a broom and she grabs it out of his hand.

FRANCES
Here, let me.

She sweeps and

As Gabriel resumes his preparations, she cleans the mess, dumping it in the trash.

She stares at Gabriel.

FRANCES (CONT'D)
You can tell me.

GABRIEL
I just don�t know if I can do this.

FRANCES
Do what?

GABRIEL
Jeana�s so...

FRANCES
So what?

GABRIEL
So gawdamned-

FRANCES
Crazy?

GABRIEL
No.

FRANCES
Stubborn?

GABRIEL
No.

FRANCES
Argumentative?

GABRIEL
No.

FRANCES
What then?

GABRIEL
She�s everything. She�s so gawdamned everything. She's too much.

Gabriel�s eyes look slightly wet.

FRANCES
Maybe it�s not meant to be.

She sweeps a lock of hair falling down on Gabriel�s forehead.

Silence from Gabriel. He looks at the tap. It drips.

GABRIEL
I�m rich and I�ve got a leaky faucet.

FRANCES
Yeah. Happens to the best of us.

INT. GUEST WING

Johnny, Cherry, Jimmy and Roddy stand puzzling at one of Gabriel�s PAINTINGS.
Completely splotchy abstract.

JOHNNY
Whadya think THAT is?

Roddy smirks.

RODDY
Darnell�s brain!

CHERRY
Before or after some speed?!

They laugh, but then turn serious.

CHERRY
I get the feeling Gabe�s not telling us something.

JIMMY
What, you turning all Jeana on us now too?

CHERRY
What�s that supposed to mean?

JIMMY
Means you�ve got loads of intuition when you want it, but you can�t see who really loves you.

Jimmy walks off.

RODDY
I�m goin� to make amends with Darnell. Score me something. I can�t handle this.

Johnny and Cherry are left standing alone.

INT. KITCHEN

Lunch is coming along. Platters of vegetables and dip. Smoked salmon. Caviar. Antipasto. Intricately woven crackers and melba toast...

GABRIEL
I�m sorry about going on about Jeana.

FRANCES
Don�t be sorry. Do you- do you like my sex change?

GABRIEL
You asked me that before...

FRANCES
I know, but you would have been in shock then.... what do you think, now?

Gabriel smiles at Frances

GABRIEL
You look very beautiful, Frances. I�m happy for you. That you can be you.

FRANCES
Thank you. Gabriel.

INT. GUEST ROOM (JOHNNY)

JIMMY
Look, I�m sorry. You deserve her more than I do.

JOHNNY
Who am I kidding? She doesn�t want someone like me. I�m a fat loser. Well, you�re free to have her now, 'cause I just don't care anymore... whatever, man.

Jimmy points at the ring.

JIMMY
Hey, maybe if I really loved her, I would have been smart enough to bring a ring too.

Johnny chucks the ring across the room.

Jimmy catches it and smiles. He throws it straight back at Johnny.

EXT. POND

Roddy finds Darnell smoking.

RODDY
Are we having fun yet?

DARNELL
A blast. Haven�t made one drug connection in this la-la land yet.

RODDY
Gabriel gave me this and says happy belated.

Darnell reads a LIST of connections and phone numbers.

DARNELL
Fuckin� eh! Merry Christmas!

Darnell gives Roddy and big macho kiss!

RODDY
Sometimes it�s good to be the messenger? ...

DARNELL
Yeah well here�s a message you won�t like... Johnny wants to propose to Cherry like he�s walking on dreamy eggshells. A bright and shiny diamond ring no less.

RODDY
That asshole. We�re all here trying to chill out and he�s gotta cause friction maxed.

INT. GUEST WING

Cherry is walking back to her room when she hears O.S. Johnny and Jimmy�s banter.

JOHNNY O.S.
I can�t!

JIMMY O.S.
You can!

She follows to Johnny�s room.

INT. GUEST ROOM (JOHNNY)

Johnny and Jimmy look shocked to see Cherry standing there.

CHERRY
What can�t Johnny do?

An awkward silence.

JOHNNY
I can�t copy season #3 of How I Met Your Mother for Jimmy because it�s illegal.

Johnny reaches his hand to conceal the ring on the table.

6

INT. KITCHEN

Darnell and Roddy enter. Darnell�s involved in a low rent high style tele-marketing drug deal. He�s holding the drug connections list, his eyes all a glitter.
Roddy gives a couple of solid pats on Darnell�s shoulder as he smiles at Gabriel.

RODDY
We might need to call the Episcopaleans or someone just to get him to calm down.
Gabriel�s eyebrow rises, and a smile that comes from seeing Darnell and remembering old times.

DARNELL
You bet I�ve got the A to Z of the best Ds this side of the pacific.

And then, it dawns on Gabriel.

GABRIEL
Episcopalean?

Darnell ends the call with a bright:

DARNELL
Scoring is never boring!

RODDY
(to Gabriel then Darnell)
Yeah Episcopalean. You�ve been hangin� with them for a few months now, right Darnell?

DARNELL
Something like that. Good people. Too right smack in the middle between the
Protestants and the Catholics.

GABRIEL
Darnell? Goin� to church? And dealing drugs? Are you selling there, too?

DARNELL
Hey they�re people too. A little relief from trouble is like Alka Seltzer for the brain pain.

Gabriel gives a �you got something there� nod.

Roddy switches gears by rapping his knuckles on the table.

RODDY
Knock on wood we don�t all wind up in jail. Hated that final episode of Seinfeld you know...

A remembrance washes over the others� faces. Grims the word.

RODDY (CONT'D)
Hey, do you know what Johnny�s going to do this weekend?

GABRIEL
Convert to Episcopalean too?

RODDY
Try, conversion from being a bachelor over to wedded bliss.

Gabriel doesn�t understand, but shakes his head.

GABRIEL
One plus one.
(The look of �aha�. )
Of course it equals three!

RODDY
What I�m sayin� is that Johnny�s gonna propose to Cherry.

Darnell gets down on his knees and takes Burner�s hand.

DARNELL
You were my first lovey-dove-dove oh will you please-pretty-please with a Cherry on top marry me Cherry. I know I�m a schmuck, but I�m taking classes and gave my last ten cases of Pringles to the food bank. I�m even going to Weight Watchers.

Gabriel shakes his head AGAIN, but this time it�s:

GABRIEL
You guys are such knockers.

Frances comes in out of a huge room sized pantry.

FRANCES
Wow you guys should see Gabriel�s pantry! He�s got Asian and Italian and look at this
(She holds up a cook book.)

SEXUAL COOKING: HOW TO FEEL ALIVE AND FREE

Darnell stumbles past Roddy and grabs the book.

He starts turning the pages obsessively.

DARNELL
Man where do you find this good stuff?

GABRIEL
Membership has its privileges.

But when he says this, he suddenly turns somber.

GABRIEL (CONT'D)

And its vexations.

Frances grabs the book back.

FRANCES
You don�t want to cook. You just wanna look at the pictures.

Darnell gives a �yeah so� look.

FRANCES (CONT'D)
So I heard you guys say something about Johnny proposing to Cherry?

RODDY
He�s got big plans. Even bought a ring.

FRANCESCA
How do you know?

DARNELL
I overheard.

GABRIEL
And?

RODDY
Let�s stop this.

GABRIEL
Why?

RODDY
There�s already a lot of tension.

GABRIEL
Leave him alone. Everyone can do whatever they want except mess up my home.

RODDY
Gabriel?

GABRIEL
Roddy?

RODDY
We�re here to relax.

GABRIEL
And relax means not getting involved in anyone�s business.

RODDY
Except if it affects the group.

GABRIEL
I don�t have a problem and since this is my house, I win.  Conversation ended. Now, why don�t you wait in the dining room for lunch?

RODDY
I got a better idea, why don�t we-

He SNAGS the book out of Frances� hands and races out, Frances in hot pursuit and
Darnell following close.

Roddy�s already out the door.

RODDY O.S.
Study up and do our homework like good boys and girls!

Frances stops suddenly, Darnell racing in front of her, stops for a moment, eyes her for that moment.

DARNELL
You really do look good Frances, I must admit.

And he�s gone. Frances, stares at Gabriel, seriously.

FRANCES
I�ll. I�ll get the others.

INT. GUEST ROOM (JOHNNY�S)

JIMMY
Do you really think Gabriel would donate to my children�s group?

JOHNNY
Why wouldn�t he?

CHERRY
It�s for children.

JIMMY
I�ll see about asking him then.

As Jimmy exits, Frances obstructs his path. Jimmy touches her arm.

FRANCES
Lunch is almost ready.

They exit.

INT. GUEST WING

Johnny and Jimmy walk ahead of Frances and Cherry.

Frances smiles at Cherry.

FRANCES
Cherry, have you heard anything?

CHERRY
Like?

FRANCES
Anything.

CHERRY
Nope.

FRANCES
Not even a marriage proposal?

CHERRY
Who?

FRANCES
You and someone close to you.

CHERRY
Roddy has been flirting with me, but marriage?

FRANCES
No not Roddy. Johnny.

CHERRY
Johnny?

FRANCES
Yeah.

CHERRY
You sure?

FRANCES
Yeah.

Frances stares at Cherry.

CHERRY
Really?

FRANCES
What are you going to do?

CHERRY
I don't know.

She walks ahead. Frances follows.

INT. DINING ROOM

Cherry and Frances enter and find the others waiting.

RODDY
�tsabout time. Gabriel wouldn�t let us eat until you got here.

DARNELL
And for all my Episcapalean friends, I say we don�t eat until we say grace.

Cherry�s overcome.

CHERRY
That�s beautiful, Darnell!

They all shrug and bow their heads.

DARNELL
We pray in gratitude and even with our crummy attitude, may we be blessed and pass the test and thank you God for-

Silence.

DARNELL (CONT'D)
For-

Silence. Cherry peaks. Underneath the table, she rubs Darnell�s leg with her foot.

CHERRY
For being the best.

Darnell OPENS his eyes and STARES at Cherry.

DARNELL
Salute! Le Chaim! Cheers! And all THAT! To Episcopaleans everywhere!

WHOLE GROUP
To Episcopaleans everywhere!

EXCEPT Johnny is engrossed in his thoughts. And then...

JOHNNY
I'll be back. I gotta get something from my room.

He exits.

Roddy and Jimmy take turns looking at each other and then to Darnell and Cherry, who seem to be having some kind of moment.

Frances watches Jimmy and Roddy watching Darnell and Cherry.

Gabriel watches Frances watching Jimmy and Roddy watching Darnell and Cherry.

CHERRY
Here, you outta try some cream cheese with the salmon.

She SPREADS it on Darnell�s cracker. Darnell watches her intently, not knowing whether to watch the cracker or her.

CHERRY (CONT'D)
And then you take a pickle, like so...

The eating continues. And even some DROOLING from Roddy as his soup trickles out of his open mouth.

JOHNNY (O.S.)
AAAHHHH! It's GONE!

7

INT. GUEST ROOM (JOHNNY) - DAY

Gabriel storms into the room. The gang files in behind. Tight fit.

Jimmy and Roddy jostle each other.

Johnny has trashed his room.

GABRIEL
(impersonating James Cagney)
You dirty rat! You mess with my room, you mess with me.

Johnny digs through the bed clothes muttering.

JOHNNY
Where is it? Where can that damn thing be?

Gabriel puts his hand on Johnny�s shoulder.

GABRIEL
All right, Johnny... Johnny! Calm down and tell us what this is all about.

JOHNNY
Someone took the ring!

GABRIEL
What ring?

Johnny sits down on the bed. No wind in his sails.

JOHNNY
A big diamond surrounded by emeralds. And the band is a swan neck design.

CHERRY
Ooh, that sounds beautiful!

JOHNNY
It was for you, Cherry. All for you.

CHERRY
Whatever for?

JOHNNY
I love you. I always have. Since the first day we met. And that kiss at my house was amazing! My first and only love. I know I am a loser but�

RODDY
--Loser is right.

JOHNNY
Shut up Rod!

Rod smiles. He�s enjoying this.

CHERRY
Johnny, this is so� so grade school! Wait, how many of you knew about this?

JIMMY
It wasn�t exactly a secret�

CHERRY
And not one of you told me!

She glares at each one of the gang.  One by one, they wilt under her demanding eyes.

Francesca returns her glare with an "I told you so" look.

CHERRY (CONT�D)
And you Frances, Francesca, you could have given me more than a hint.

FRANCESCA
I did tell you. You didn�t want to hear it since you were too busy flirting with Jimmy.

RODDY
That�s true.

Jimmy blushes.

Cherry scoffs then moves towards the door.

She trips over the mess on Johnny�s floor.

She lands � hard � on her hands and knees.

Darnell attempts to help her.

CHERRY
I don�t need your help!

Cherry stomps out of the room.

JOHNNY
Thanks assholes.

Johnny exits.

Johnny (OS)
Cherry!

Gabriel goes after Johnny.

INT. KITCHEN � DAY

JOHNNY
Cherry! I�m sorry.

Johnny�s voice echoes. Cherry is not here.

Gabriel walks in.

GABRIEL
Let me give you some friendly advice.

JOHNNY
Fuck you, Gabriel. You�re not my guardian angel.

Gabriel pins Johnny against the refrigerator door.

GABRIEL
Johnny boy, are you trying to get on my nerves?

JOHNNY
So much effort for nothing.

GABRIEL
Give her some time.

JOHNNY
What makes you the expert? Your argument with Jeana?

Gabriel releases Johnny.

JOHNNY
By the way, James Cagney never said �You dirty rat.�

GABRIEL
You are without hope.

INT. GUEST ROOM (JOHNNY) - DAY

Darnell pulls out a small baggie of cocaine and throws it toward Jimmy and Rod.

Rod catches it.

DARNELL
Now would be the time boys.

RODDY
What the fuck is going on around here?

JIMMY
First, Gabriel and Jeana go off the deep end. Then, Johnny and Cherry�

DARNELL
Dr. Darnell prescribes nasal entertainment�

FRANCESCA
Grow up guys!

DARNELL
Lighten up Frances.

FRANCESCA
It�s Francesca, Darnell. And if I have to remind any of you again, you will be testicle free.  

Francesca�s turn to stomp out of the room.

DARNELL
Always was a strange one.

RODDY
Fuck him. Fuck her. Who gives a shit?

Rod prepares the cocaine.  His hands shake.

8

INT. GUEST ROOM (FRANCES)

Francesca enters her room. She sits at the desk and opens her day planner.

She turns to a picture of Johnny in high school and caresses it.

Frances hears a noise outside and goes to the window.

The page flips to a picture of Gabriel.

EXT. MANSION - FRONT

An RV pulls into the massive driveway and parks.

Jeana exits, wearing a black abaya, dressed as a Muslim.

Jeana is alternately nodding "yes" and shaking "no" to someone just inside the RV's entrance.

She shuts the door and proceeds toward the mansion's doorway.

INT. GUEST ROOM (FRANCES)

FRANCES
What on earth is going on now?

She exits.

INT. GUEST ROOM (JOHNNY)

The Three Amigos are royally trashed.

DARNELL
I can't believe Johnny's meltdown-

JIMMY
(mocking)
I love you. I always have. Since the first day we met�

DARNELL
And that kiss at my house was amazing! My first and only love.

JIMMY
I know I am a loser but-

RODDY
You know you're a loser when...

DARNELL
You CALL yourself a loser.

More laughter.

Burner snorts the coke with vengeance then spins around the room in a fit.

RODDY
Fu-fu-fu-fuck Johnny! Fuck my life! Fu-fu-fuck it all!

DARNELL
You taken over by tourettes?

RODDY
No that fucking Johnny if it weren't for his fucking around, I'd still be clean!

Darnell quite calmly says:

DARNELL
Not with that filthy mouth Rod, darling. Must you be so foul? What would your mother say?

Jimmy laughs.

JIMMY
Actually, his mother was always one to say, "I will love you Roddy Burnside no matter what."

DARNELL
It was YOUR mother who said that!

RODDY
Actually MY mother DID say that.

Darnell looks up to the right portion of the ceiling, staring far off as if to the moon.

DARNELL
Actually MY MOTHER SAID THE SAME THING!

RODDY
See how fucked we are?! And I made this promise to myself and told my mother how I was going to stay clean from now on and now I can't go back to her and lie! FUCK!

Darnell's still staring far off. Silence. The three of them all wind up staring where

Darnell is staring, is staring, is staring. That upper right hand corner of the room has never been so fascinating.

DARNELL
What were we just talking about?

RODDY
You said how you wanted to go somewhere else and party.

DARNELL
I did?

RODDY
Yeah, but I wanna go see what Cherry's up to. Wanna come?

DARNELL
I think I'll go browse the grounds of this fantasy land. You guys go ahead. I'm getting claustrophobia stuck inside this place.

The three exit.

INT. LIVING ROOM

Cherry paces back and forth.

GABRIEL
Look it's not so bad as you think. Yes we all knew about it. But what else could we do? Spoil it for Johnny?

CHERRY
Spoil what? He can't possibly be anymore spoiled than he already is. Living at home. Not a single dream going on in that Pop Tart brain of his-

INT. KITCHEN

Frances tries to rush out the back door through the kitchen when she encounters Johnny.

Johnny senses her rush.

JOHNNY
What's your hurry and where ya going?

FRANCES
I just saw Jeana out front and you wouldn't believe what I saw!

JOHNNY
Look, forget Jeana for a moment...

Johnny takes hold of her shoulders.

JOHNNY
Oh Frances, I'm so glad to see you.

FRANCES
You are?

JOHNNY
Of everyone here, I think you've always been the one to have your head on straight.

FRANCES
You do?

JOHNNY
Yeah and that's why-

Jeana ENTERS, her black attire almost knocking Johnny over.

Frances holds Johnny's arm. Johnny holds Frances' in return.

JOHNNY (CONT'D)
Jeana? Why are you dressed like a Muslim?

JEANA
I will be changing shortly. It was my father's request when I'm in his company now.

Frances and Johnny approach Jeana, sympathetic.

FRANCES
I'm so sorry, Jeana. Maybe you should go back to be with him. It's only right that he take precedence for your time right now. We're not important.

JEANA
He is here with me.

The light hits Frances.

FRANCES
The RV.

JOHNNY
RV?

FRANCES
There's an RV parked out front and if I'm following correctly, Jeana's dad is inside of it.

JEANA
Father had my uncle bring him here. My uncle kept trying to get a hold of me, but my cell wouldn't work. And Darnell's brain is too fried. He didn't even remember my uncle Flin. Thought it was a prank.

JOHNNY
I remember Flin. So Flin brought your dad? Isn't he too sick to travel?

JEANA
Private jet. You know father.

FRANCES
What I don't know is how he got here so fast.

JEANA
They left right after I did. Took the jet here. Rented the RV. But they couldn't get a hold of me. Once I got hold of a new phone, I got hold of my father.

JOHNNY
Step father.

Jeana looks down.

JEANA
Yes.

Jean looks up.

JOHNNY
Well why don't you bring him in? What's going on?

JEANA
He WON'T come in. NOT unless he's invited. And it has to do with a deal that Gabriel made with him a long time ago and he's here to demand from Gabriel.

FRANCES
Sounds to me if he were demanding anything, and if he had the strength to make it here, he'd also have the strength to come inside and do his demanding.

Jeana puts a hand on Frances' chest.

JEANA
My father has come all this way and made the first step. Gabriel must make the second step.

She pats Frances where her heart sits.

JEANA (CONT'D)
It must come from Gabriel. From his heart.

EXT. MANSION - FRONT

Darnell turns the corner from the side into the front.

His cell RINGS.

He TRIPS slightly, as he tries to manage answering his phone and walking at the same time. Hard with his level of intoxication.

DARNELL
Hey Brad, baby. How's it-

His face turns serious.

DARNELL (CONT'D)
No man, look things are turning up.

BRAD O.S.
The only thing gonna be turning up is you in a graveyard if you don't get me my money.

Click.

Darnell puts the phone back in his pocket. He looks up.

Sees the RV. Shakes his head.

DARNELL
No way this was here before.

Walks toward it. Touches it.

DARNELL (CONT'D)
No this is real. And if it's not. Maybe I'd better lay off the shit. 'Cause it's getting too real and-

GABRIEL O.S.
What the hell and where did you get that from, Darnell?

Gabriel's fast approaching toward him.

DARNELL
I didn't. It's not mine.

GABRIEL
Don't give me that shit! You and Roddy are fuckin' around again aren't you? Gawdamn it Darnell!

DARNELL
No really!

INT. KITCHEN - SAME TIME

JOHNNY
So anways I borrowed money from my parents to buy the ring, but I didn't tell them I borrowed it.

JEANA
Johnny, that's not borrowing. That's STEALING!

Jeana, Frances and Johnny look up to the sound of:

GABRIEL O.S.
Gawdamn it! Why can't you give it a rest for once?!

Jeana covers her mouth.

JOHNNY
What?

JEANA
I'm afraid.

FRANCES
What?

JEANA
He's gonna be so angry with me when he finds out.

FRANCES
Gabriel? No. I'll talk to him for you. He'll listen to me.

Jeana just shakes her head.

JEANA
Why does it have to be this way?

9

EXT./INT. GUEST ROOM (CHERRY)

Roddy knocks at the door. No answer.

He closes his eyes. Presses his forehead upon the door momentarily as if the inanimate might give him support.

He snaps himself out of it; opens the door with confidence.

EXT. MANSION (FRONT)

Gabriel pulls the drunken Darnell towards the RV.

Gabriel kicks it in a funky martial arts move and hurts his foot.

GABRIEL
Get this gawdamned thing out of my driveway!

DARNELL
Honest as Able! It�s not mine!

INT. KITCHEN

Johnny is about to cry. So is Jeana.

Frances eyes them both for a moment, an indifferent cast glazing over her face.

FRANCES
Pull yourselves together. Come on.

Frances pulls Jeana along, but Johnny stays behind.

He stands there for a moment, chugs back a beer and gives a loud belch.

JOHNNY
This weird shit that�s goin� on makes me hungry.

He spies the pantry. A devious grin grows along with the noise outside as he starts to stroke his chin.

He turns on a radio to dampen the noise of commotion outside.

Dons an apron that says,

Many people have eaten my cooking and gone on to live normal lives.

He rubs his hands together, cracks his knuckles and sets to work.

INT. GUEST ROOM (CHERRY)

Roddy rummages through Cherry's things. He finds a makeup bag. His grin also turns as sinister as Johnny�s.

EXT. MANSION - FRONT

As Frances and Jeana come into view. A jaw drops:

It�s Gabriel's. In complete shock at the way she's dressed.

GABRIEL
What the hell Jeana?

JEANA
I went to a costume ball. You know those HOLLYWOOD affairs, Gabriel.

GABRIEL
Next time I have an affair like that, I�ll call you first...

A dark cloud overhead slices through the sun and the sun pierces through it like a flaming sword, but only Jeana sees.

GABRIEL (CONT'D)
...because I love, a good slut, like you.

Jeana smiles fondly.

JEANA
Think-you. Are we human? Or are we dancers?

Frances shakes her head and glides in front of Jeana to get first row of Gabriel and Darnell.

FRANCES
What are you both fighting about?

GABRIEL
This! (showcasing the RV) He steals this monster and then parks it in my driveway.

DARNELL
I�m telling you it�s not mine.

GABRIEL
�Course it�s not yours. It�s stolen! Just like the ring. My whole Mansion is turning out to be a Den of Thieves.

Jeana  begins an amazing rendition of �The Temple Moneychangers� scene from Jesus Christ superstar.

Roll on up, for my price is down.
Come on in for the best in town.
Take your pick of the finest wine.
Lay your bets on this bird of mine.
Roll on up, for my price is down.
Come on in for the best in town.
Take your pick of the finest wine.
Lay your bets on this bird of mine.
Name your price, I got everything.
Come and buy, It's going fast.
Borrow cash on the finest terms.
Hurry now while stocks still last.

Her black abaya swirls.

Gabriel�s enjoying this and puts on a pair of shades.

The sun gleams upon them as his acting career climaxes along with his vocal gymnastics as he sings,

GABRIEL (CONT'D)
Myyyyyy mansion, should be, a place of prayer, but you have made it, a den of thieves.

After the stunning performance by both these two, Darnell works his lips around:

DARNELL
Does that mean you�re not angry with me anymore?

Gabriel smiles lightly. Jeana steps up to Gabriel.

JEANA
Of course he�s not angry with you anymore. You don�t stay angry very long do you Gabriel, darling?

GABRIEL
Not uuusually...

And then he looks through Jeana. She steps back.

GABRIEL (CONT'D)
If the RV isn�t Darnell�s doing then--

Frances swiftly moves to Gabriel.

FRANCES
I think it has something to do with Jeana!

Thus Jeana yanks on Darnell, trying to pull him aside. True, Gabriel doesn�t stay angry for long, but the RV was not in their plans.

Darnell resists, but Jeana's will is stronger than Darnell's intoxication.

Frances starts rambling, out of character.

FRANCES (CONT'D)
It makes perfect sense that Jeana would say her father�s inside.

GABRIEL
She said that? But Logan called me and-

Gabriel shakes his head.

Frances has a moment of amusement.

FRANCES
It�s just like old times, isn�t it? Remember graduation?

FLASHBACK

EXT. SIMPLY HIGH SCHOOL - FRONTAGE

The street in front of the school is decorated, as tradition with spray painted artwork from the graduating class.

EXT. FIELD - SIMPLY HIGH SCHOOL

The graduating students, dressed in their finest, mull about around and underneath huge tents set up for the occasion.

EXT. SIMPLY HIGH SCHOOL - FRONTAGE

A HEARSE pulls up in front. Roddy�s driving.

At the curb, Cherry, Frances, Johnny, Jimmy and Darnell all freak at what they�re seeing while we freak at what we�re seeing:

Cherry = Rich red gown. A cherry tiara.

Frances = Frilled blouse together with a suit. A tam on his head.

Johnny = Not quite pulled together. His suit is only a blazer.

Jimmy = Mild looking comfortable regular suit and tie. Seems normal, but when he turns around, his back is covered like a patchwork quilt. And closer up still, he�s missing his shoes.

Darnell = A tuxedo T-shirt and velour pants.

They see and te-he:

Roddy gets out first, comes round to the back and opens the back door like a chauffeur, but he�s dressed as a magician.

He wears white gloves and sweeps the air gracefully in presentation as he taps his magic stick on the hearse:

Gabriel and Jeana exit the hearse as a White Bride and Black Priest.

The five of the group at the curb are all giggles and holy shit.

While five of them alternately high five--

Roddy saunters up to Cherry and produces �magic flowers� for her as a gift. They have a moment as he raises her hand and kisses it softly.

Cherry�s face melts as we return to:

EXT. MANSION - FRONT

Frances and Gabriel�s glowing eyes.

GABRIEL
Those were good times weren�t they?

FRANCES
I have to admit you and Jeana were always planning some sort of madness...

NEAR THE RV

JEANA
Please tell him you stole the RV.

DARNELL
Why?

JEANA
�Cause I�m not ready for him to know that I�ve been talking with my father about the Legacy again.

DARNELL
What legacy?

JEANA
My father, step father, wants Gabriel to take over his entire estate-- That was the deal. It�s a long story.

DARNELL
You mean your father really IS in the RV?

JEANA
No, but I was talking to the ghost of my father. My real father. I rented the RV because I needed someplace quiet. I can�t channel when there�s so much commotion going on.

DARNELL
OK look. I�ll do it, but you have to do whatever I ask later. Deal?

JEANA
Deal.

Gabriel and Frances turn from their reverie, watching Darnell and Jeana watching them with a "something's up".

Darnell approaches Gabriel and Frances with a hearty:

DARNELL
OK, look. I did it K? I don�t want Jeana taking the blame for my evil deeds.

GABRIEL
I don�t believe this!

FRANCES
Hey! Why don�t we take it for a spin! It�ll be like that time--

Weird noises from:

RODDY O.S.

Rooked-me! We-hee-hee!

They raise their heads upward to a high window in the mansion.

Roddy the joker has makeup all over his face and is laughing like a maniac.

GABRIEL
Roddy you better not break even ONE ming vase or I�ll--!

Gabriel storms inside.

Frances, Jeana and Darnell stand there. They break into laughter.

INT. LIVING ROOM

Very soft inside as Cherry looks through a pile of DVD's. She picks out a sitcom and puts the disk in the DVD player.

She sits back to watch. Everything's perfect except two things. One, she's missing Johnny in a sentimental kind of way.

And Two, she's missing her cigarettes.

As she reaches for a pack that Darnell left, she notices her "empty" left ring finger.

She starts to cry as she tries to speak--

Cherry
Ro... Rah... Rod...

But the name can't quite breath through her lips.

The door squeaks opens just a crack.

Such an expensive mansion, with leaky faucets and squeaky doors.

Cherry
What am I going to do?

10

EXT. MANSION � FRONT

Frances exits the mansion - heads towards the RV.

She taps on the window... nothing. Looks inside - spots a backpack. "Jeanna" is embroidered on the front.

Frances nods.

INT. FOYER

Gabriel sprints up the stairs.

INT. GUEST WING

Gabriel strides down the hallway and arrives at Cherry�s room.

INT. GUEST ROOM (CHERRY)

As Gabriel gets closer, he calms down. Composes himself - throws open the door.

Looks left, looks right... empty.

He sees on the mirror "the ring + Johnny = Loser" written in lipstick. Gabriel cusses while he wipes the mirror off.

He moves to the window, sees Frances walking away from the RV.

GABRIEL
Oh, for fuc -

INT. LIVING ROOM

Cherry watches the television.

Jimmy enters quietly and stands behind her. He smiles. Cherry talks to the television.

CHERRY
What about Pete? Are you gonna tell Pete? You can't Annie, Pete will want an abortion...

Cherry laughs. Jimmy coughs. Cherry jumps, turns around.

CHERRY
What the hell? Were you standing there the whole time?

JIMMY
Just came in then. Didn't know where you were.

CHERRY
So you didn't hear...

Jimmy nods, cringes, smiles.

CHERRY
Ah...

JIMMY
You are the only person I know who does that kinda thing... give advice to the people on screen. You and... you and Johnny.

CHERRY
Well... Umm...

Cherry turns back to the television... she's not really watching it though. Pause.

JIMMY
Wanna talk about... you know. The ring and stuff?

CHERRY
Stuff meaning Johnny?

Jimmy sits down next to Cherry. He nods. Pause.

Cherry suddenly hugs Jimmy.

Jimmy, shocked, hugs back after a few seconds.

FROM TELEVISION (O.S)
What do ya mean ya preggas?! We're getting an abortion!

INT. KITCHEN

Darnell stands by the kitchen bench. He puts on a funny face.

DARNELL
If you don't Goddamn take that Goddamn thing outta my Goddamn driveway, Goddamn it you better Goddamn watch your Goddamn self, Goddamn.

Johnny and Jeana laugh at him.

Frances walks in

JEANA
He always gets so serious... Be back soon, I'm gonna find him.

FRANCES
Hey. I need to find him too, I'll help you.

JEANA
Sweet deal.

Jeana and Frances walk out of the kitchen, Jeana laugh is dying down, until she cracks up again, O.S.

Roddy pops his head in the doorway, makeup on his face.

Darnell howls with laughter.

Roddy walks over to Johnny, goes for his shirt.

JOHNNY
No way. Not a chance in he-

RODDY
Come on! Come here...

Johnny moves towards the door, but Roddy is too quick for him.

RODDY
Gotcha!

Roddy wipes his shirt on Johnny's face.

JOHNNY
Get the hell off me!

RODDY
Or what, big boy?

Johnny pauses.

JOHNNY
Or I'm going to punch you right in the nose.

Roddy laughs.

RODDY
Can't wait sunshine...

Roddy laughs as he runs off.

Darnell laughs too. He is silenced by a stern look from Johnny.

INT. POOL

Frances and Jeana walk in the room.

FRANCES
G-dogg, where are you?

JEANA
G-man, you around?

FRANCES
What about "Gabs"? Or "Gabby"?!

Jeana laughs.

JEANA
"Gabby". Genius.

Pause.

FRANCES
I know about the RV.

JEANA
What do you know about it?

FRANCES
It's all part of your master plan to get Gabriel.

JEANA
I don't have a master plan, or any plan for that matter! You wouldn't have a clue anyway.

FRANCES
Whatever.

Jeana walks between Frances and the pool.

JEANA
Gabmeister -

Frances pushes Jeana.

On the edge of the pool Jeana nearly falls in... she tries to keep her balance by grabbing onto Frances' arm.

They both fall in.

JEANA
What the hell was that for!

FRANCES
Why did you grab me you stupid -

JEANA
Stay outta my business -

Across the room, Roddy walks in.

He spies the girls as they splash and pull eachothers hair.

He runs over, as he pulls his wallet from his pocket, chucking it on the ground.

He jumps in - creates a huge splash.

Gabriel walks in, a shocked look on his face.

Pause.

JEANA
Gabster in the house!

11

INT. POOL

With a puzzled look, Gabriel stands looking at them.

Frances and Jeana look back at him.

Roddy turns to each one.

Makeup colors run down Roddy�s face � not all of it got wiped on Johnny�s shirt.

RODDY
Come on guys! Let�s have some fun while we�re here!

He splashes water at the girls.

No one splashes back.

FRANCES
(laughs)
You really should look in a mirror, dark knight.

Roddy looks at his reflection in the water.

It�s the Joker having a bad makeup day.

RODDY
(as Heath Ledger)
Why have a pool, if no one is going to play?

He slaps a big splash of water at Gabriel.

Gabriel moves out of the way but still gets wet.

RODDY
Where�s the towel boy when you need one?

Gabriel smiles as he calmly wipes the water off his clothes.  

GABRIEL
Oops, I think the maturity level in the pool just fell to all-time low.

Gabriel enjoys his wit.

GABRIEL
Have any of you seen the ring? If it�s not found, I�ll have to call the police.  And I don�t want to do that.

He shoots a knowing look at Jeana.

Frances spots the look.  

Gabriel exits.

Both girls race to the pool ladder.

Jeana exits the pool first despite the awkward abaya she wears.  

Water drenches the floor behind her.

JEANA
Wait! Gabriel!

Frances exits the pool and slips.

She regains her footing.

Frances takes off her shoes down to her bare feet.

She may as well be on ice.

She goes down on her derriere.

And she gets up only to go down again.

FRANCES
Damn it.

RODDY
(laughs)
Now, who looks like a joker?

FRANCES
Screw you, Roddy.

Roddy dives under the water cutting off further renarks.

Frances wobbles as she exits.

INT. FOYER

Jeana hurries to the foyer.

No Gabriel.

Off screen, Jeana hears a door slam.

Jeana looks up.

Johnny and Darnell enter.

JOHNNY
Who slammed the door?

JEANA
Gabriel.

Darnell notes her wet clothes.

DARNELL
Spill your drink, Jeana?

Frances catches up to the trio.

Johnny eyes Frances in her wet clothes.

Frances doesn�t mind Johnny looking.

JOHNNY
W-what happened to you, guys, I mean girls, I mean women?

Frances appreciates his discomfort.

Johnny blushes.

DARNELL
What did you do to piss him off this time?

FRANCES
We were just practicing our fully-clothed synchronized swimming with Roddy--

JOHNNY
--Roddy?--

Johnny exits.

JEANA
--Gabriel caught us--

FRANCES
--and then he trumpeted in that he was going to�

JEANA
--Look for your ring, Johnny. Johnny?

FRANCES
He gave me the eye. And I gave him the eye. He blushed and left.

DARNELL
(Aussie accent)
Fair dinkum?

FRANCES
Damn straight.

Jeana and Frances head upstairs.

Darnell follows Jeana like a whining puppy.

DARNELL
Hey, Jeana� You remember� that favor� you owe me�

JEANA
I can�t talk now, Darnell. I�m wet and I want dry clothes!

Jeana rushes ahead.

Darnell stops on the stairs as Frances passes.

FRANCES
Darn it, Darnell� Good luck collecting on that favor.

INT. POOL

Johnny enters and spots Roddy in the water.

Face down. Arms outstretched. Not moving.

Johnny goes to the pool edge. No waves.

Johnny reaches for Roddy�s arm--

Roddy grabs Johnny and pulls him in.

RODDY
What�s the rule Johnny? Huh, Johnny? You�ve seen enough movies to know!

Johnny gasps for air.

JOHNNY
Never touch a floater!

RODDY
That�s right, big boy.

Roddy pushes Johnny�s head under.

RODDY
Now, it�s time to find out if fat lover boy can swim.

Johnny gasps for air.

RODDY
Oh my. �Fat lover� sounds a lot like �flubber� to me.

Roddy and Johnny continue to grapple in the pool.

12

INT. GABRIEL'S BEDROOM

Spy themed music plays while Gabriel pulls the black turtle neck over his head to complete his black ensemble.  He's one mean mother.  

A SCREAM and loud SPLASH off screen, catch Gabriel's attention. He smirks.

On Gabriel's bed sits a large black case. He coolly strides over to it.  Then he smiles as pulls out a gun.

RODDY(O.S.)
FAT BOY CAN SWIM!

Gabriel turns quickly toward the sound.

He cocks the gun.  Aims at the camera.  Pulls the trigger. Then everything goes black.

INT. POOL

Roddy hops on Johnny's back pushing him below the water. Johnny spins around and pops back up coughing.

JOHNNY
You're an asshole.

RODDY
Is that why you're always wanting to kiss me?

Roddy puckers his lips and Johnny seems confused. Then it registers with a vengeance. Johnny take a swing at Roddy.  

Roddy twist into the water and swims away, the swing misses him.  Johnny follows quickly.  

He grabs Roddy's leg but Roddy kicks him away.  Roddy's enjoying himself.

Johnny isn't, he's takes the matter seriously, a quick burst of speed and he's on Roddy's back.  Johnny brings his elbow down hard against Roddy's spine. Roddy screams out but it quickly becomes bubbles under the water.

JOHNNY
(mutters)
I've always wanted to do that.

And he's falling backwards. Roddy has his leg.  Roddy pops above the water.

RODDY
That fucking hurt. You know?

And he pulls Johnny by his legs.  Johnny lies flat back in the water, thrashing. He tries to get leverage but can't.

RODDY
Thought you were better than me, Fat Boy!  Well, whose got the upper hand now?

The crotch of Johnny's pants are against Roddy's belly.  Johnny tries to take a swing at him but it doesn't work.

Roddy grabs Johnny's pants by the belt.  Offscreen Jimmy clears his throat.  Both turn to look.

JIMMY
What's going on here?

RODDY
Johnny's decided to marry me instead of Cherry. Didn't you Johnny baby?

Johnny glares at him.

JOHNNY
Fuck --

Roddy lifts Johnny's legs and Johnny's head goes below the water before he has a chance to finish.

RODDY
Always thinking about sex.

Johnny splashes about trying to get his head above water.

JIMMY
Let him go.

And Jimmy and Roddy stare down each other.  Meanwhile, Johnny isn't yet above water.

Then Roddy relents, he releases Johnny's legs.

RODDY
What the fuck is it with you two?

And he turns away disgusted.

Johnny has caught his breath.  He lunges at Roddy.  

JOHNNY
Fucking son of a bitch.

Roddy makes a smooth move and Johnny misses him. Johnny splashes into the water with a belly flop.  Roddy swims toward the deep end.

Johnny back again he wades toward Roddy.

JIMMY
Johnny!

JOHNNY
I'm gonna fucking kill him.

JIMMY
Let it go.

JOHNNY
But --

JIMMY
He's not worth it.

Johnny thinks about it for a moment.  The he looks toward Roddy.

JOHNNY
I wouldn't marry you if you were the last man on earth!

Roddy laughs loudly.

Johnny exits the pool.

Roddy treads water and smiles.

RODDY
(to himself)
Priceless.

INT. MANSION � HALLWAY

Johnny storms through the hallway muttering his thoughts on revenge.

EXT. MANSION

Roddy spies Jimmy still standing at the side of the pool.   Roddy swims over to the side.

RODDY
Come on in the water's fine!

JIMMY
Sometimes you're such a jerk.

RODDY
Because I invited you in for a swim?

JIMMY
Grow up.

RODDY
Never!

And Roddy pushes off from the side and backstrokes across the pool.  With a big smile, he watches Jimmy shake his head for a moment and then walk off.  

Roddy's smile turns serious.  

INT. GABRIEL�S BEDROOM

Gabriel examines the gun in his hand.  A knock on the door startles him.

JEANNA (O.S.)
Everything okay in there?

Gabriel runs over to the bed.  Another knock.

FRANCES  (O.S.)
Open the door Gabriel, It's Frances.

JEANNA (O.S.)
It's Jeanna!

Gabriel stick the gun back in the bag.

FRANCES (O.S.)
Frances!

JEANNA (O.S)
Jeanna!

He turns to hear muffled arguing through the door.  He smiles.

INT. POOL
Roddy relaxes in the hot tub.  He looks completely exhausted.

DARNELL (O.S.)
What have you been doing?

Roddy opens his eyes to see Darnell.  He smiles.

RODDY
Trying to sober up.  I've employed hot cold therapy.  You wouldn't believe what you can do with the jets in this hot tub.

DARNELL
I don't think I want to know.

Darnel sits on the edge of the tub.  He stick his hand in the water swirls it around thoughtfully.

DARNELL
But I did want to ask you something.

RODDY
Shoot.

DARNELL
How much do you think that ring was worth?

RODDY
What ring?

DARNELL
The ripped off ring, Johnny's ring!

RODDY
How the fuck would I know?  You should ask Fat Boy.  And while your at it give him a kiss from me.

Darnell looks at Roddy with a "what the fuck" look.  Roddy laughs.

RODDY
I was kidding.

Darnell is relieved.  But then he stares at Roddy, like he has something to say but he isn't quite sure how to say it.  Roddy is suspicious.

RODDY
Why do you want to know about the ring?

Darnell pause then stutters.

DARNELL
Because I stole it.

And Darnell pulls the ring from his pocket. Roddy's eyes go wide.

RODDY
Shit! Man. Never going to change are you?

DARNELL
Like you've changed.

RODDY
I'm at least trying.

DARNELL
Well, I have debts. Bad debts. You wouldn't know anything about those Mister Nine to ...

There is a SCUFFLING sound off screen. Darnell pockets the ring.

DARNELL
What was that?

Darnell goes to investigate.  Roddy watches him exit with concern.  

INT. LIVING ROOM

Darnell enters the living room and walks smack into Jimmy.  They bump heads.  

JIMMY
Sorry.

Jimmy's hands are all over Darnell.

DARNELL
It's ok. Really.

JIMMY
It was clumsy of me.

Darnell pulls away.  

DARNELL
Not a problem.

Darnell crosses the room and as an aftertought.

DARNELL
That ring, you know, the one that was ripped off.  How much do you think that was worth?

JIMMY
Quite a bit, I think.  Johnny spent his entire savings on it.

Darnell smiles.

JIMMY
It was devastating for him to have it stolen.  He may never be same again.

Darnell looks down, thoughtful.  Then he turns and exits.    

Once Jimmy is sure Darnell is gone, he looks both ways and then opens his closed hand.  In his palm is the ring.  He gives it a devious smile then looks once again in Darnell's direction.

13

INT. POOL

Cherry enters. Quiet and empty.

She glides along the floor up to pool side.

Her pants accentuate her hips. Her top highlights her waist and breasts.

She looks at the water with longing.

Viewed from behind:

--She wiggles out of the pants. Her well-toned backside covered by form fitting panties.

--She takes off her top revealing a jogging bra.

--Her panties and bra fall behind her.

--The dim pool lights outline Cherry�s athletic build as she pauses a moment.

Someone watches from the changing room.

She dives in.

She takes her time before resurfacing.

She circles around the center of the pool in a soft rhythmic motion.  She hums softly.

At the end, Cherry achieves a satisfied smile as she immerses herself in the water.

INT. FOYER

Darnell opens the front door.

GABRIEL
Where do you think you're going?

Darnell jerks back as if caught after curfew.

DARNELL
I was going for a drive. Why do you care?

He gazes at Gabriel in his night commando outfit.  

DARNELL (cont�d)
Why are you dressed like that?

GABRIEL
Darnell, my boy� We are going to have some fun�

Gabriel puts his arm around the still edgy Darnell and guides him toward the living room.

INT. LIVING ROOM

GABRIEL
(yelling)
Hey. Everyone. Meeting in the living room.

Jimmy�s surprise shows when Gabriel and Darnell enter.

JIMMY
Hey guys. What�s up?

Darnell spots Jimmy putting something in his pocket.

DARNELL
Ask Gabriel man. He has something against me going for a drive. It�s not like I was going into your garage �

Frances and Jeana enter.

FRANCES
What�s going on?

JEANA
Why the summons?

Jeana looks at Gabriel�s outfit.

JEANA (cont�d)
Gabe-inator? Seriously, what�s going on?

INT. POOL

Cherry slowly starts to do laps, back and forth, back and forth.

Cherry recites a little ditty.

CHERRY
Roddy is a joker, Jeana is a bitch, Frances is a girly now, and Johnny lost his ring.  Yeah, we�re all fucked up.

The water surges as she gets faster and faster.

CHERRY (cont�d)
Jimmy is a prince, Gabriel is an acting goon, Cherry is so damn lost, and Darnell is a dunderhead. Yeah, we�re all fucked up.

INT. LIVING ROOM

JIMMY
What's in the bag?

FRANCES
Come on. You know you�re just dying to tell us so--

JEANA
-- tell us already.

Gabriel holds the bag tightly.

DARNELL
He ain�t gonna to tell us. Look at that shit-eating grin.

GABRIEL
Not until everyone is here. We need Johnny, Cherry and Roddy. Wait, that sounds like trouble brewing.

Roddy wanders in.

RODDY
What the fuck is going on here?

Everyone looks to Gabriel as he reaches into the bag and pulls out a

GUN

He points it at Roddy.

Roddy gulps. The rest of the gang appears stunned.

Gabriel waits a moment.

RODDY
Look, Gabriel. I apologize. I--

DARNELL
--Give him a chance man�

Roddy tenses.

Gabriel pulls the trigger.  

CLICK

A dark stain appears on Roddy�s crotch.  

Roddy examines himself and his fingers come up with paint off his chest.

RODDY
Fuck you, asshole!

Darnell slumps into a chair.

DARNELL
A paint ball gun. It was just a paint ball gun.

A murmur of relief escapes from the gang.

RODDY
I am going to kill you.

Roddy lunges for Gabriel.

Gabriel easily sidesteps Roddy.

GABRIEL
I take it I have one recruit for paintball?

RODDY
John Boy and Cherry don�t know yet?

Gabriel shakes his head.

RODDY
I am so in. Gabriel, you�re still on my list.

Gabriel nods.

Gabriel tosses them each a bag:

JIMMY
Me want gun. Me like see Big Chief Gabriel make squaw piss her pants.

RODDY
You just made the list, buddy.

FRANCES
Boys and their guns. Is there one that doesn�t shoot piss balls?

RODDY
Very funny, Frances. You just made the short list.

FRANCES
Talking from experience, short stuff?

JEANA
I want one that shoots metal pellets, got any of those?

DARNELL
I worry about you, Jeana. I really do.

GABRIEL
Enough yapping. Go get dressed. Ouick. I�ll leave a bag for Johnny and Cherry in their rooms. (as if announcing a wrestling match on TV) It's time for paintball!

INT. POOL

Cherry slows her laps down. She's puffing. She floats on her back, closes her eyes... at peace.

Click. The lights go on.

Cherry opens her eyes.  

Everyone is dressed as bad mothers -- six shooters, six guns -- pointing at her.  

Cherry screams.

Johnny bursts in from his hiding place in the changing room.

His pants are down around his ankles.

He hyperventilates as he looks around the pool.

RODDY
(looking at Johnny and Cherry)
Dear Penthouse, I thought this would never happen to me�

14

INT. POOL ROOM

Everyone except Cherry points their guns at Johnny. Johnny screams - it sounds like when Cherry screamed.

Gabriel raises his gun

GABRIEL
To the maze, and beyond!

RODDY
(to Johnny)
You, you fat masturbating motherfucker, get your gear and gun and come on!
(to Cherry)
You, you sensual lovely woman, get your gear and gun and come on!
(to Darnell)
Was that too harsh?

Darnell starts to speak.

RODDY
Fuck it, lets go!

Johnny doesn't move.

RODDY
I said lets go, fat boy!

Roddy shoots Johnny in the foot.

JOHNNY
Oww! What the hell?!

Roddy runs off, the others except for Cherry follow.

Johnny stops to chase a few seconds after, puffed.

JOHNNY
If I was slightly more fit... I would... boy, I would...

Cherry stands behind him, clothed.

Her and Johnny lock eyes for a second - connected - they rush out of the room.

EXT. MAZE

A huge hedge maze goes off into the distance.

BAM, Roddy sprints left, BAM, Gabriel right. Jeana follows him.

BAM BAM BAM. Darnell, Frances and Jimmy shoot off in different directions.

Suddenly, silence.

In a different part of the maze, Jeana walks with Gabriel.

GABRIEL
I was expecting the other two to get involved, but oh well. This is still going to look amazing on camera.

Gabriel points out a few camera's with his gun.

Jeana smiles.

JEANA
You, dear Gabriel, really are a mystery.

Gabriel smiles.

INT. CHERRY�S BEDROOM

Cherry rushes to squeeze into the paintball gear.

INT. JOHNNY�S BEDROOM

Johnny is geared up, he grabs a gun on the bed - checks it. Locked and loaded.

EXT. MAZE

GABRIEL
I'm, me, a mystery?! If anything -

FRANCES
Camera's? Are you serious?

Jeana and Gabriel spin to Frances standing there.

GABRIEL laughs, the actor kicking in.

GABRIEL
Umm, what?

FRANCES
You just mentioned camera's. Are they for security? Or something else?

GABRIEL
Security obviously, why else would I -

Frances walks in Gabriels face.

FRANCES
Don't fuck with me Gabriel.

Gabriel looks to Jeana for support.

JEANA
Frances -

FRANCES
Jeana, don't. Gabriel, if you are creating conflict in this house just for the sake of filming it, that is not right. We all came here for a relaxing, fun weekend. We trusted you Gabriel. You let us all down.

GABRIEL
They are just security!

Frances stares at Gabriel. Pause.

FRANCES
Whatever, I don't want to play this stupid game anyway...

Frances turns around, walks away.

BANG. Gabriel shoots a paintball into France's back.

Frances spins around, raises her gun.

GABRIEL
GO, GO, GO.

Gabriel and Jeana sprint off, Frances follows. She's mad.

In another part of the maze, Roddy slinks around a corner. He brings his wrist to his mouth.

RODDY
(into wrist)
Bravo bravo, charlie, roger, roger. What's your position, over, under, through and out.

15

EXT. MAZE
Darnell huffs and puffs as plods down the bushy path.� He is covered in splotches of paint. Roddy's voice blares from his headset.

RODDY (V.O.)
Wilco Roger alpha alpha ten four twenty, you there?

Darnell stops. Sniffs.

He bends down and eyes a small weedy looking bush.

DARNELL
Gabriel! You naughty beautiful man, you.

And he starts picking buds from the bush. His headset blares.

RODDY (V.O.)
Darnell! Dammit, where the hell are you?

DARNELL
Right here, man.

RODDY (V.O.)
Why didn't you answer. I've been calling?

DARNELL
The fuck you have! You've been going on and on about some guy named Roger. Anyway, I gotta go. I'm busy.

Darnell takes his headset off and throws it to the side.� He smells one of the buds he picked and smiles sweetly.

EXT. MAZE�� �
Roddy calls Darnell's name as he taps the ear piece on his headset.   He turns a corner...  

...Only to find himself looking down a gun barrel.  Johnny holds the gun and he sports the biggest Cheshire smile ever seen.  Roddy instinctively raises his hand.  

JOHNNY
I got you now, you son of a bitch.

Roddy backs up but Johnny matches pace.

RODDY
Johnny! What a surprise.
(into mic)
Darnell!  Could use some backup! Darnell!
(pause)
Shit!

JOHNNY
What's the matter? Did your butt buddy Darnell switch teams?

RODDY
Heh. Heh. That's very funny Fat --

JOHNNY
Boy?

RODDY
Now Johnny you know I call you that because --

JOHNNY
Say it!

RODDY
Johnny.

JOHNNY
Fucking say it!

RODDY
Alright Fat --

CHERRY (O.S.)
Boy! Fat Boy!

They turn toward Cherry's voice. Cherry has her gun pointed at Johnny.  Johnny and Roddy seem embarrased.  Johnny lowers his gun.  

CHERRY
Everyone used to call you that.   It was your nickname.

JOHNNY
But I'm not fat anymore.

RODDY
Yeah, you are --

Cherry aims at Roddy both with the gun and her eyes.

RODDY
-- n't fat.

CHERRY
No matter what they call you Johnny.  There's one thing you can be sure of.  Everyone here loves you.

Johnny goes starry eyed.   He takes a step toward Cherry.  

JOHNNY
Even you?
Cherry is uncertain how to answer.   Neither pay attention to Roddy and he takes the opportunity to escape.   Then Cherry spots him.

CHERRY
Roddy. He's getting away --

But Johnny doesn't care.

JOHNNY
Do you?  Do you love me?

CHERRY
Yes, Johnny I love you.

Johnny looks over the moon. Cherry bites her lip.

CHERRY
But not that way.

And she dashes off after Roddy.

CHERRY
I'm gonna get you Roddy, you bastard.  

Johnny deflates.  His gun drops to the ground.  Then he does as well.

EXT. MAZE
Jimmy turns a corner.  He aims his gun into the distance then, with concern, lowers it.  

Johnny sits on the ground.  He is crying.

Jimmy walks toward him.

JIMMY
Hey. What's wrong?

Johnny wipes his eyes but still sobs.

JOHNNY
I'm such an idiot.  How could I think she could ever love a fat slob like me?  

JIMMY
Cherry?

Johnny nods. Jimmy is sympathetic.

JOHNNY
She loves you though.

Jimmy shrugs.

JIMMY
Hey. I got something I'm sure is going to cheer you up.

Jimmy pulls the ring from his pocket. It sparkles in front of Johnny's eyes.    Johnny is shocked.

JIMMY
You'll never guess who...

JOHNNY
You mother fucking son of a bitch!

Johnny stands full of anger.

JIMMY
No! Wait! You don't...

JOHNNY
You godamn BASTARD!

The sound of Johnny's bastard echos through the maze.

EXT. MAZE
Darnell is sitting on the ground sniff a bud when he hears the echo.  He gives it no more than a moments thought then returns to his precious.

EXT. MAZE
Cherry chases Roddy down a path.  They both laugh.  

The echo catches Cherry's attention.  She stops and turns in the direction of Johnny's voice.

Roddy tackles her.  Then he lies on top of her, laughing as she struggles to free herself.

EXT. MAZE
Johnny lunges at Jimmy. But Jimmy hops out of the way.  Johnny falls to the ground, his gun lays near him.  He eyes it.

JIMMY
I didn't steal it, you idiot.

Johnny winces.  

JOHNNY
Bullshit!  

Johnny rolls over, his gun in his hand.  He aims at Jimmy.   Jimmy aims back.

JOHNNY
All this time, you've been playing me.  Haven't you?    

Jimmy looks sad.

16

EXT. MAZE (BY FRANCES)

Gabriel and Jeana scoot away from Frances.

Frances chases them for a few seconds, then stops, puffing.

FRANCES
Argh!

Frances shoots the closest camera.

She turns round a corner, straight into Darnell.

FRANCES
Darnell, thank God. I need your help.

DARNELL
Yeah man, lets do it, lets hang out or something...

FRANCES
See those camera�s? Hit them with your gun.

Darnell shoots at a camera which Frances just shot at.

FRANCES
No, you idiot, the ones that haven�t been shot at.

Darnell shoots at another camera... misses it completely.

FRANCES
Useless...

Frances motions to Darnell to follow. She runs off.

EXT. MAZE (BY JOHNNY AND JIMMY)

Jimmy points his gun at Johnny�s face. Johnny points his gun straight back at Jimmy.

JIMMY
It was just one night man. One awesome night. Then once we came here, it brought it all back.

JOHNNY
What happened to bro�s before hoe�s? Mates before dates?

JIMMY
Yeah, that was in grade 5. When we all thought girls had aids and stuff. It�s different now man, I think you�ve been watching too much of the Big Bang Theory.

JOHNNY
I love that show! Don�t bag out that show!

Jimmy hands his gun to Johnny.

JIMMY
Take it man. I love that show too.

Johnny grabs Jimmy�s gun, points it at Jimmy�s crotch.

JIMMY
Oh, come on man.

JOHNNY
I need to do this.

Jimmy puts his hands over his crotch.

JIMMY
Umm, no you don�t!

JOHNNY
Yes, I do. Move your damn hands.

Jimmy sighs, removes his hands.

Johnny is about to shoot, when Frances and Darnell come from around the corner.

FRANCES
Thank God I found you two � what the hell? What�s all this about?

Johnny lowers his gun � sighs.

JOHNNY
Nothing. Where are the others?

FRANCES
Dunno. But we need to get Gabriel back.

JIMMY
Get him back? How?

Frances puts her arms around Jimmy and Johnny, walks into the maze.

FRANCES
Follow me and see, boys...

EXT. MAZE (BY RODDY AND CHERRY)

Roddy and Cherry continue to wrestle and laugh. They get close... and kiss.

RODDY
Do you remember... when... you know?

Cherry thinks for a second... bursts out laughing.

Frances, Darnell, Johnny and Jimmy stop as a group a few feet away from the couple.

JOHNNY
I should have shot you all in the damn crotch.

Roddy and Cherry hear this, and stand up.

Frances aims her gun at Cherry. Cherry seems taken aback.

Frances shoots... hits a camera.

FRANCES
Guys, Gabriel have been filming this whole game... and probably the whole weekend, for a stupid TV show he is making.

Pause.

RODDY
You serious?

CHERRY
What the hell?!

Frances nods.

FRANCES
So, the question is now... are you ready to get him back?

Everyone agrees. Frances grins.

FRANCES
Roddy, you got some more of that point you are wearing?

EXT. MAZE (BY GABRIEL AND JEANA)

Gabriel and Jeana wait in a corner of the maze. A �security� camera is in plain view.

GABRIEL
The lighting could be better in the day, but I like the night -

Frances yells O.S.

Gabriel and Jeana turn to the sound and see the rest of the group with their pants around their ankles, turned away from them.

The gang moons Gabriel with his name painted on their six pair of butt cheeks:

�(GA) (BR) (IE) (L S) (UC) (KS)�

17

INT. MAZE � CENTRE TOWER
Gabriel watches the display of MOONS on a monitor.

He bends over as if in pain.

GABRIEL
Shit!

Jeanna runs to him.

JEANNA
What's wrong?

Then she glances at the monitor.  She chuckles.

GABRIEL
It isn't funny! They all know!

JEANNA
So what? We already have enough footage for ten shows.

GABRIEL
-- which aren't going anywhere without an end. And I had such a finale prepared! Dammit.

JEANNA
Gabriel, you know that some times things don't happen when and where you expect them to. Some times there's surprises.  Like in poker.  Some times you have a good hand, some times it's bad.   Most of the time it's not going to win.  That's just life.  

GABRIEL
Leave it to you to go all philosophical on me.

JEANNA
Well I'm right, aren't I?

Gabriel stares at her for a long moment.

GABRIEL
No.

JEANNA
No?

GABRIEL
No. Because you didn't figure in the Gabriel factor.

JEANNA
The Gabriel factor?!

Gabriel stands.

GABRIEL
They may think they have a unbeatable flush. But I haven't played all my cards yet.  

EXT. MAZE - (BY RODDY AND CHERRY)
The six mooners give each other a great HIGH FIVE while they ad lib about how good it was to get Gabriel.

Everyone is giving each other hugs.  But when Cherry goes to hug Johnny there is an awkward moment.

Darnell hugs Frances, he looks concerned.

DARNELL
You think he taped everything?

FRANCES
Yes.

Darnell seems distraught, he pushes Frances away.

DARNELL
All the rooms.  Even Johnny's?

Loud enough to catch everyone's attention, especially Jimmy and Roddy.

FRANCES
I'm sure he did.

Darnell rings his hands.  

DARNELL
I got to go.

And he turns to leave but Jimmy runs to meet him.

JIMMY
Whoa! Darnell buddy.  Where you going?

DARNELL
I have to see a man about a...

GABRIEL (O.S.)
This game is not yet over!

Everyone turns, confused, they try to locate the voice.

RODDY
It's Gabriel.

Everyone ad libs boos and hisses at the disembodied Gabriel.

GABRIEL (O.S.)
Silence!

CHERRY
Where's it coming from?

RODDY
I would say the middle of the maze.

Roddy and Cherry head off.

GABRIEL (O.S.)
I am the great and powerful Gabriel!

JIMMY
Looks like there's still a bit of fun left.

DARNELL
Yeah, shame I have to go.

JIMMY
Well you can't miss this.  Nothing could be that important.

And Jimmy takes the reluctant but obliging Darnell by the arm and leads him into the maze.

GABRIEL (O.S.)
The beneficent Gabriel has every intention of granting your requests.

Frances looks toward the centre of the maze and smiles. Then she looks at Johnny � he's looking down, kicking stones with his feet.

FRANCES
Come on. Let's go.

Johnny shakes his head.

FRANCES
Oh! Come on.  There  must be something you want to the beneficent Gabriel � revenge?

Johnny shakes his head.

FRANCES
Cherry. You want Cherry, right?

Johnny shrugs.

FRANCES
Well maybe we could do something about that as well.

Johnny looks at Frances and smiles.

FRANCES
That a boy. Come on.

And she runs off into the maze. Johnny follows.      

EXT. MAZE � CENTRE TOWER
Gabriel sits in front of a microphone, Jeanna stands behind him with perplexed look on her face.

GABRIEL
Bring me the broomstick of the Witch of the west!

PING! PING! PING! Paint balls hit the side of the tower. It's under seige.

Gabriel panics.  

GABRIEL
Pay no attention to the man in the tower!

PING! PING! PING!

Gabriel throws a number of switches and dials.

PING! PING! PING!

Ad lib shouts from outside calling for Gabriel's head.

GABRIEL
I am the great and powerful Gabriel!

Then he gives up, exasperated.

PING! PING! PING!

He looks at Jeanna, pleading.

JEANNA
Let me get this straight, that was your final card? Quoting lines from the Wizard of Oz?

PING! PING! PING!

GABRIEL
So it wasn't a great hand, I was fucking bluffing.  I'm an actor, that's what I do.  

JEANNA
You're on your own.

She turns and starts to walk out.

PING! PING! PING!

GABRIEL
How many times I wanted to say that to you when we were in school?

Jeanna stops.

GABRIEL
But I didn't and you know why?

Jeanna turns, she knows why.

PING! PING! PING!

JEANNA
Give me the mic.

Gabriel does.

JEANNA
Okay people, listen up.

The noise outside stops.

JEANNA
The game is over.

Some dissapointed awww's from outside.  Then a stray PING.

JEANNA
It's over, got it?  

Quiet.

JEANNA
Good!  I want you all cleaned up.  And afterwards we meet in the living room for a discussion of tonights events.  

RODDY (O.S.)
We want Gabriel!

Some yeahs of agreement from outside.

JEANNA
You can have him in the living room, after you're cleaned up.  That is all.

Gabriel looks at Jeanna in awe.

GABRIEL
You think they'll calm down?

Jeanna nods.

JEANNA
As long as you do exactly as I tell you.

Gabriel is interested.

JEANNA
How convicing are your tears?

18

INT. LIVING ROOM

The gang waits for Jeana and Gabriel.

Frances wipes off some paint on Johnny�s face.

Johnny blushes yet his eyes hold with Frances� eyes --

JIMMY
I just don�t like being filmed for any reason. Creepy.

JOHNNY
Why? Afraid of the toilet cam?

JIMMY
I was thinking of the pool cam when you were caught with your pants down.

Anger simmers in Johnny�s eyes.

CHERRY
Pool cam?

Cherry�s face turns pale. Then anger comes to town.

Darnell snorts coke in the corner. He relaxes in his chair as his face takes on a serene look.

DARNELL
I really don�t care about who pissed who off who. Just as long as I get my cut. Preferably in cash this weekend.

Roddy reacts to Darnell�s mention of cash and wants to ask Darnell a question but --

Cherry strides over to Darnell and spins his chair so they face each other.

CHERRY
This is serious Darnell! Gabriel breaks our trust so he can make a reality show? And all you can do is whine about getting your cut. You�re no different than in high school. You didn�t give a shit about any of us then and you don�t give a shit now.

Darnell is speechless.

CHERRY
You�re a loser!

Cherry looks for another target --

RODDY
If anyone here is still a loser, it�s your fianc�, Johnny.

Before Cherry reacts, Frances pushes Johnny back and jumps into the fray.

FRANCES
Everyone�s a loser except you Roddy?! Is that it? Who�s the big jock who still acts like he�s seventeen?

RODDY
Oh shut up. Francesca. Frances. Whatever the hell you are. You�re just another man trying to hide from the past.

Frances SLAPS Roddy.

Roddy moves to strike back when Jimmy grabs his arm.

JIMMY
Roddy.

Roddy shrugs Jimmy�s hand off.

Frances cries as Jimmy comforts her.

Roddy�s face drains of emotion.

Johnny looks jealously at Jimmy then gives a death ray look to Roddy.

Gabriel strolls in. All eyes center on him.  Jeana follows and hides in his shadow.

GABRIEL
(as Bobby De Niro)
You wanna piece of me? Huh?

Gabriel assumes a boxer�s pose and shuffles around a bit.

The gang clamors for Gabriel to explain about the cameras.

Jimmy quiets the gang.

JIMMY
Gabriel, we were discussing what you were thinking when you invited us � your friends � to the reunion?

GABRIEL
Jimmy, always the peace maker, eh?

JIMMY
Call it a character flaw.

GABRIEL
Except you use it to befriend people who are down and vulnerable.

JIMMY
What? At least I am not a scared little boy hiding behind an actor�s fa�ade.

GABRIEL
Anything else?

Everyone shouts at each other, their complaints overlap.

JOHNNY
-- Asshole!

DARNELL
-- What�s my cut?

CHERRY
-- We trusted you!

FRANCES
-- How could you do this?!

Jeana nods slightly at Gabriel.

Gabriel picks up a vase and hurls it at the wall.

SMASH!

In the silence that follows, Gabriel cries.

GABRIEL
I�m out of money. I�m in debt up to my hairline�

CHERRY
How can that be? We�re in this mansion. I don�t get it.

Everyone hangs on his next words.

GABRIEL (CONT�D)
I made millions and spent millions. A few bad decisions along the way. Knowing Bernie Madoff didn�t help. And quite simply, scripts don�t come my way anymore.

Gabriel sobs a bit more. Desperation on his face.

GABRIEL (CONT�D)
Then I had this idea for a reality show I could produce and make some money.  But it had to a genuine bunch of dysfunctional friends. And I tell each of you as my friends�

Gabriel looks up at each of his friends with tears in his eyes. Jeana wears a concerned mask.

GABRIEL (CONT�D)
I am sorry.

19

INT. MANSION LIVING ROOM

Gabriel's head is hung as he toys with a shard of broken ming, finally casting it off like yesterday.

Jeana notes the others gazing blankly out the window or at some nameless spot on the ceiling.

Jeana secretly pulls something from her pocket, and places it in Gabriel's hand. Her hands hug his for a moment.

He looks at her, and she, at him.

JEANA
Gabriel, this isn't the end. It's just the beginning.

Frances turns and looks disgusted.

Gabriel tucks it� in his pocket.

GABRIEL
Can I do this? Is it right?

JEANA
You were always there for me, Gabriel. And how do we ever know what's right except-

Frances stands up. Sick of them both.

FRANCES
I'm going to bed. Maybe I can dream you both out of my life forever.

Johnny doesn't feel so harsh and stands up, with the look of forgiveness on his face.

JOHNNY
I'm sorry, Gabriel, Jeana. She never meant it.

Gabriel and Jeana stare searchingly-

GABRIEL
Maybe.

Johnny walks off. Roddy breaks the silence with a melody from something.

RODDY
Let's play name that tune. They're just a bunch of party poopers.
Come on the night is young. Name that tune!

GABRIEL
The tune is, it's getting late and I think maybe we should all go to bed.

RODDY
Oh come on Gabe don't cave now.

GABRIEL
No really. It's late.

Everyone except Roddy and Darnell head upstairs.

INT. MANSION GUEST CORRIDOR

Frances and Johnny stand outside Johnny's room.

FRANCES
Thanks for being there for me.

She gives him a kiss.

JOHNNY
I'd like to be there more.

He gives her a kiss. She smiles and turns to her room.

Johnny watches her walk back.

The quiet dissolves as Jeana, Jimmy and Cherry are in the corridor.

Johnny hurries into his room as if to hide.

INT. JOHNNY'S ROOM

Johnny shuts his door.  He leans his back against it, holding on to the door frame for dear life like his world is spinning and he doesn't want to fall off.

INT. MANSION, GUEST CORRIDOR

Jeanna has apparently forgotten something. She turns back.

Cherry and Jimmy are at the door to their respective rooms.  Cherry eyes Jimmy and calls to him.  He stops at his door.

Cherry saunters over.

CHERRY
Jimmy, you know what we could do-

JIMMY
YOU, could do. I have a headache.

He enters his room and shuts the door in Cherry's face.

She stands there in cold shock.

INT. MANSION, LIVING ROOM

Darnell draws out the coke.

DARNELL
Want some?

RODDY
Sure, why not.

DARNELL
My drug man. He might put a bullet in my head anytime.

RODDY
How much do you owe?

DARNELL
Too much, but if I just make a payment, it'll keep him happy enough to maybe just wanna break my arm.

INT. MANSION - OUTSIDE GABRIEL'S ROOM

Jeanna knocks on the door.  Gabriel opens it.

JEANNA
Did you do it?

Gabriel smiles.

She pushes him inside his room and closes the door.

INT. MANSION - GUEST CORRIDOR

Johnny exits his room and looks both ways.  He tip toes across the hall to Frances' room.  He knocks on the door.

Frances opens. She holds here sheer robe tight at the neck.

FRANCES
What do you think?

JOHNNY
I- I thought that I think that there, then, this...

FRANCES
Did you come just to stutter?

Johnny leans in and kisses her. A real kiss. She responds as they fall into the room, closing the door behind.

INT. MANSION - LIVING ROOM

Roddy holds out a wad of cash to Darnell.

RODDY
Would this help?

DARNELL
You serious? Not a joke?

Roddy nods.

RODDY
You've always been my best bud.

Darnell gives Roddy a huge man-kiss.

The money FLIES. They both fall off the couch.

LATER-

Several bottles of empty beers are scattered on the table. Roddy and Darnell lie on the floor, completely plastered.

20

INT. LIVING ROOM � MOMENTS LATER

Darnell gives Roddy a big man kiss.

RODDY
Man, that�s the second time you have planted those wannabe rosie red lips on my face! Just back off a bit, hey!

Darnell laughs.

DARNELL
You know I�m just happy, man.

RODDY
I know. I�ll get the money to you on Monday morning, outta the bank.

Darnell looks at Roddy, tilts his head.

DARNELL
Awww, come here...

Darnell moves in for the kiss on Roddy. Roddy puts his hands up to stop Darnell. They both laugh.

INT. GUEST WING

Cherry waits outside Jimmy�s door and reaches up to knock but pulls he arm back when she hears voices from the living room.

She walks toward the voices.

INT. BEDROOM (JIMMY�S ROOM)

Jimmy tosses and turns.

EXT. MAZE � FLASHBACK

Jimmy walks around a corner of the maze.

Roddy and Cherry kiss. They stop when they see Jimmy. Cherry giggles, and kisses Roddy again.

INT. LIVING ROOM

Darnell is on top of Roddy. Roddy moves beneath him.

Cherry enters and let's out a surprise squeak.

CHERRY
Sorry.

She turns to leave.

RODDY
Cherry? Cherry is that you?

CHERRY
Uh, yes?

RODDY
Thank God. I need help. Darnell passed out. I can't get him off of me.

Cherry laughs.  She goes over to provide assistance.

CHERRY
I remember a time when you used to say that about the girls.

RODDY
Well times change, we get older.

Cherry grabs Darnell's arms and heaves.

CHERRY
You don't need to remind me of that.

RODDY
You look great. I certianly wouldn't kick you out of bed.

With Cherry's help Darnell is removed from Roddy.

CHERRY
No. You're just trying to get me there in the first place.

Roddy sits up and helps push Darnell onto the couch.  This concerted effort leaves them close together.
  
RODDY
And if I was, would I succeed?

CHERRY
Stranger things have happened, Mr. Burner man.  Stranger things have happened.

Cherry pulls away and looks around.

CHERRY
But first you would have to tell me something.

RODDY
You aren't going to make me play truth or dare again? Are you?

CHERRY
No.

Roddy breathes a sigh of relief.

CHERRY
But I was just wondering why there's money all over the floor?


INT. BEDROOM (FRANCES�)

Johnny lies shirtless. Frances lies, her head on his chest. They both smile.

FRANCES
It started in high school.

JOHNNY
What did?

FRANCES
My crush, on you. Then this weekend it all came back.

JOHNNY
You had a crush on me in high school?

Frances nods.

JOHNNY
I wish you had told me.

FRANCES
It wouldn't have done much good.

JOHNNY
No. I suppose not. No way was I gay.

FRANCES
And neither was I.

Johnny pauses a moment, then nervously.

JOHNNY
Am I gay now?

Frances laughs.

FRANCES
No, silly.  And I'm not either.

JOHNNY
Oh, good. For a moment there...

FRANCES
And don't suddenly decide you are, either.

JOHNNY
Yes, ma'am.

Frances beams.  She gives him a big kiss.

JOHNNY
What was that for?

FRANCES
You called me ma'am.

She puts her head back down on his chest.    

INT. HALLWAY OUTSIDE OF MASTER BEDROOM

Jeanna walks out of the bedroom door.  Her head held low.  She takes a few steps then she turns back toward the door.
INT. MASTER BEDROOM � FLASHBACK

Jeanna enters the room. She throws her arms around Gabriel.  Pushes him back into the room with a big wet kiss.

Gabriel resists. He pushes away.

GABRIEL
Whoa! What's this about?

JEANNA
A reward for a job well done.

She presses against him again.  Kissing him hard, pushing both of them onto the bed, her on top.   Gabriel gives up the fight.

BACK TO SCENE

Jeanna walks past the living room. She looks in. Darnell is snoring away on the couch.  A pile of cash sits on the table in front of him.

INT. MASTER BEDROOM � FLASHBACK

Gabriel is resisting again.  He pushes Jeanna off of him.  Jeanna is pissed off.  

JEANNA
You know, I don't get you?

GABRIEL
You. Don't get, me?

JEANNA
I was the one who got you out of trouble.  Without me you wouldn't have the show.  Without me you wouldn't be able keep the house.

GABRIEL
Thank you, but what am I supposed to do now, give you a thank you fuck?

That pushed her over the edge.

JEANNA
A thank you fuck!  I'm the one making the concession here.  Out of the goddamn goodness of my heart  I  was going to give you a congratulations fuck, but after the way you're acting I don't think that I will!

Gabriel sighs.

BACK TO SCENE

Jeanna sighs.  She walks down the hallway past the guest bedroom doors.  A grunt from inside of one of them, then a moan,  She moves her ear closer then Roddy's voice.

RODDY (O.S.)
Oh yeah baby, move that ass.

Jeanna pulls her ear away.  She spins around 180 degrees,  a disgusted look graces her face.

INT. MASTER BEDROOM � FLASHBACK

Jeanna shoots a pained look at Gabriel.  Gabriel looks back at her sternly.

GABRIEL
You've done this before. Thrown yourself at me.  Has it ever worked?  Once?

Jeanna thinks. It's obvious she doesn't want to go here. She shakes her head.

GABRIEL
There's a reason, Jeanna.  There's a reason it doesn't work.  What's the reason?

This is obviously hard for her.  Tears glow in her eyes.

JEANNA
I don't know.

GABRIEL
Think.

JEANNA
You wanted � wanted to be a virgin.

GABRIEL
That's what I told everyone. Everyone except you. I confided in you Jeanna and you don't even seem to remember it.  

JEANNA
I'm sorry.  I should remember � I really should.  But then Mom died and. -- flowers � caskets --- mourners � crowds of mourners � all of them touching me...

Jeanna stares at the invisble objects with fear, swipes at thier touches with her hands.  

Gabriel, with a slight look of regret, crosses and holds her in his arms. At first she resists then she falls into them. Her tears flow freely now.

GABRIEL
This will be our secret.

BACK TO SCENE

Jeanna is at the front door.  She exits, leaving it open.  She crosses the front lawn without stopping.

  




  

21

INT. LIVING ROOM - DAY

Empty beer bottles and a barren coke bag sit on the coffee table.

Darnell lies on the couch, drool running from his mouth.  He opens his eyelids with difficulty.   He sits up slowly and touches his forehead.

Darnell�s eyes focus on the money and he grins. He struggles to his feet then holds up the wad, kisses it, and stuffs it in his pockets.

Darnell paces the room and checks the wall clock. It�s early.

INT. GUEST WING

Darnell steps into the empty hallway.

INT. FOYER

Darnell tiptoes as he approaches the front door. He peers behind him.

A guilty grimace crosses his face.

Then he smiles and does a 360 degree spin popping an imaginary hat from his head to his waiting hand.

He exits.

INT. BEDROOM (CHERRY)

Eyes shut Cherry rests in the bed with a serene glow on her face. Her eyelids open and flutter close. She rolls over to reveal a man�s back facing her.

Cherry snuggles in, smiles and enjoys the moment.

RODDY
Mm.

CHERRY
Mm.

RODDY
What do you say we split?

Cherry sits upright clutching the sheet to her chest.

CHERRY
What?

RODDY
You know, get out of here. Why?

Cherry chokes on a nervous laugh.

RODDY
What did you think I was talking about?

CHERRY
Split. Break up. Boyfriend and girlfriend stuff.

Roddy sits up while the sheets fall away from his six pack abs and his boxers.

He embraces her.

RODDY
No, not at all. I just wanted to get away from here. I mean, I�ve had enough of the total drama action of this place.

She gazes thoughtfully.

CHERRY
What about the others?

RODDY
They can get their own ride.

CHERRY
Fresh air does sound good.

INT. BEDROOM (JIMMY)

Jimmy sits up in the bed.  Sunlight shines in his eyes and checks his watch on the night stand.  It�s early.

Jimmy quickly gets out of bed and hurries to the shower.

He packs and rushes to the door.

INT. GUEST WING

Roddy partially dressed steps into the hallway with Cherry, wrapped in the bed sheet, kissing him.

Jimmy steps into the hallway. Jimmy drops his bag and slides it in front of Roddy.

Roddy stumbles over the bag.

JIMMY
Oh great, just what I was hoping to see. Roddy always gets the girl.

Roddy steps toward Jimmy. Cherry moves as if to throw herself between the two men. Roddy reaches out and stops her.

RODDY
Anything you have to say Jimmy?

JIMMY
Like speak now or hold your peace?

Jimmy sizes up Roddy. Then he looks at Cherry.

JIMMY (CONT�D)
Are you two a couple?

RODDY
(in unison with Cherry)
Yes.

CHERRY
Yes.

Jimmy hugs them.

He picks up his bag and strolls down the hallway.

RODDY
Strange but very�

CHERRY
Jimmy.

RODDY
Yeah.

Roddy stares down the hallway, shakes his head while running a hand through his hair.

CHERRY
Hurry up Burner man or you�ll have to catch me all over again.

RODDY
A quick shower and we�re gone.

Cherry flashes Roddy a little peek at her backside and a wide smile. She disappears into her room.

Roddy hurries to his room.

INT. BEDROOM (JOHNNY)

Johnny slumbers in bed.

He opens his eyes and Frances lies awake next to him.

He rolls out of bed and freaks out.

JOHNNY
I kissed you first, right?

Frances watches Johnny pace and grins.

FRANCES
You did more than that slugger.

Johnny blushes but stands taller with a �yeah I did that� grin.

JOHNNY
My mom and dad are going to freak.

Frances coughs mid laugh.

FRANCES
What?

JOHNNY
I know, go slow. Right?

FRANCES
Yes. Didn�t you learn anything this weekend?

JOHNNY
Yes I did.

Johnny kisses Frances.

JOHNNY (CONT�D)
Come on. Let�s get out of here.

INT. GUEST WING

Johnny and France stand in the hallway and note the doors to the other guest rooms are open and obviously vacated.

JOHNNY
Looks like everyone is gone.

Frances has a concerned look on her face.

FRANCES
Should we say goodbye to Gabriel?

Johnny pushes her towards the foyer.

JOHNNY
No. I�ve had enough of Gabriel. Besides, Jeana�s with him and I sure don�t need that this morning.

FRANCES
I suppose. Still�

JOHNNY
We can call later.

INT. FOYER

Johnny holds the door for Frances.

FRANCES
I could get used to this.

Johnny quickly checks his pocket for the ring. Relief. It�s there.

He holds the ring up to the sun. The diamond catches the light and sparkles.

JOHNNY
Me too.

22
INT. GABRIEL�S BEDROOM

The sun pours in the room. A fly buzzes on the window.

Gabriel awakes, staring at it, faintly aware of the strange quietness.

The note that Jeana gave him lies on his end table. He lifts it, opens it to read.

JEANA V.O.
Do the deed. Call him. It�s all yours for the taking.

Gabriel folds the note neatly, like it�s alive. He places it back down.

GABRIEL
I can�t. I don�t want that shit.

O.S. the sound of an engine revving up.

Gabriel jumps up to the window. He sees:

EXT. MANSION

The RV pulling out of the driveway.

INT. RV

Jeana gives a sharp turn to the wheel.

The sun glares on the windshield. The radio plays. A bride and groom swing together
as a car charm next to a dream catcher and some quartz beads.

INT. GABRIEL�S BEDROOM

The RV moves away. Gabriel eyes bulge in a dark shock.

GABRIEL
Jeana!!!

As if she can hear, he calls out, whispers in, then turns and races to the hall and down the stairs.

INT. RV

Jeana blinks away the tears.

GABRIEL O.S.
Maybe...!

She SLAMS on the brakes causing the bride and groom to jingle against the dream catcher.

She stares at it, the clinking sound is like after a death.

INT. FOYER

Gabriel kicks an empty beer bottle as he heads out the door.

It spins.

The room is empty, littered with remnants from Darnell and Roddy�s party.

GABRIEL O.S.
Jeana wait!

INT. RV

Jeana�s eyes look so very distant now. Like she�s already driven far away, but no-

EXT. MANSION

Gabriel�s breathless as he rushes to the RV.

INT. RV

The car charms hang limply. Jeana pulls out a pocket knife and cuts down the bride and groom.

EXT. RV

Gabriel bangs at the door. He sees the knife in her hand.

GABRIEL
Open up!

Jeana releases the door. She doesn't look like Jeana. She's deadpan. Emotionless as death.

Gabriel gets in.

INT. RV

GABRIEL
Give me that.

Jeana folds the knife and slides it into her bra.

JEANA
It�s my life and you�re not in it. What I do with it is up to me.

GABRIEL
Jeana... no, don�t do this.

JEANA
Get out, Gabriel. It�s over.

GABRIEL
You said it was just beginning.

JEANA
I was wrong.

Gabriel steps out. He shuts the door.

Jeana�s in the gear to go.

She does.

EXT. MANSION

Gabriel stands alone outside his mansion, watching the RV drive off under the canopy of boughs that swing gracefully in the mild breeze.

He pulls out his cell and dials. Waits. The look of anguish. The look of decision.

GABRIEL
Logan?

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ THE END ?

22

EXT. MANSION - DAY

The sparkle from Johnny�s ring blossoms into the white light of the�

INT. MASTER BEDROOM

�sun shining into Gabriel�s eyes.

Gabriel rolls over and pulls a pillow over his head.

He groans.

FLASHBACK:

Jeana sits on the edge of the bed. She appears drained with shoulders slumped.

JEANA
You know you�ll be nothing without me.

Gabriel changes into his boxers and a T shirt.

GABRIEL
Over acting aren�t you?

JEANA
It�s not over acting if that�s how you feel.

Gabriel looks confused.

GABRIEL
What are we talking about?

JEANA
Love, life, death� us together or us apart.

GABRIEL
Jeana, I do appreciate your help with all this but I am so tired right now. I just can�t have this discussion now.

JEANA
Now who�s over acting?

Gabriel gets into bed.

GABRIEL
Turn off the light will you?

END OF FLASHBACK

Gabriel wakes with a start. He looks at the empty bed next to him.

GABRIEL
Jeana?

Gabriel sees a note on the table across the room. He gets out of bed and grabs the note.

Gabriel furrows his brow as he reads.

JEANA (V.O.)
Gabriel, I can�t bear our life together or our life apart. And that�s no life at all. I can�t do this. So much to say but none of the words would spare me the pain I am feeling. Love, life or death.  Which should I choose? Jeana.

Gabriel reacts.

GABRIEL
Jeana! No!

He exits.

INT. GUEST WING

Gabriel runs down the hallway.

GABRIEL
Jeana!

He discovers the empty guest rooms.

GABRIEL
Where is everyone?

Gabriel runs into the foyer.

INT. FOYER

GABRIEL
Jeana! Anyone!

He dashes to the living room.

INT. LIVING ROOM

GABRIEL
Where is everyone?

Gabriel runs to the pool room.

INT. POOL ROOM

Gabriel checks the pool and sees the pool camera.

He stares at the camera for a moment.

Gabriel hurries to the study.

INT. STUDY

Gabriel enters. He breathes hard and sits on the edge of the desk.

He looks at the security monitor as it scans through the various areas of the mansion.

JEANA (O.S.)
(sultry)
So, what�s it gonna be big boy?

Gabriel jumps off the desk like it was a lit stove.

The oversize desk chair turns to reveal Jeana.

GABRIEL
Jeana! What the hell?

JEANA
You needed to make a choice.

Gabriel�s face contorts with anger.

GABRIEL
A choice? A choice! This is manipulation.

Jeana continues to gaze coolly at Gabriel.

JEANA
Said the spider to the fly.

Gabriel returns a confused look.

GABRIEL
Where did everyone go?

JEANA
Wrong question.

GABRIEL
Why did everyone go?

JEANA
Closer.

GABRIEL
I give up.

JEANA
Why didn�t I�

Jean stands and moves closer to Gabirel.

GABRIEL
Go?

Jeana�s eyes glisten.

JEANA
Because I love you and I think�

Gabriel takes her up in his arms and gazes into her eyes.

GABRIEL
I love you. I just didn�t know it until now.

Jeana smiles and wiggles closer

JEANA
So what�s your motivation?

GABRIEL
Love and life.

JEANA
Well played.

GABRIEL
Do you think Johnny still has the ring?

Jeana scoffs and hits Gabriel in the arm.

JEANA
I think he might be using it very soon.

The security camera sits in the corner with a red power light on.

FADE OUT.

THE END.

INT. MASTER BEDROOM
Gabriel rubs his head as he wakes.  He schluffs over to the door.  

INT. KITCHEN
Gabriel grabs himself a coffee.  He glances around.  Something is wrong.

INT. HALLWAY
Gabriel opens one of the guest door.  The room is empty.

He opens another, it is empty as well.

GABRIEL
Hello!

There is no answer.  Gabriel opens another door. Empty.

GABRIEL
Where'd they all go?

Gabriel rushes down the hall.

INT. POOL
Gabriel enters, no one is there.

EXT. MAZE
Gabriel walks the maze.  

GABRIEL
Hello?

INT. LIVING ROOM
The room is a mess but no one's in it.  Gabriel sits on the couch.  He looks a bit thoughtful.

GABRIEL
They didn't sign releases.

Then alarmed.

GABRIEL
Shit!  They didn't sign releases!

He stands and rushes out of the room.

INT. MASTER BEDROOM
Gabriel opens drawers pulling out the contents.

GABRIEL
Where'd I put them?

He scans the room. His eyes rest on his bed stand.  A small package sits there.

INT. LIVING ROOM - FLASHBACK
Jeana secretly pulls a small package from her pocket, and places it in Gabriel's hand. Her hands hug his for a moment.

He looks at her, and she, at him.

JEANA
Gabriel, this isn't the end. It's just the beginning.

Frances turns and looks disgusted.

Gabriel tucks it� in his pocket.

BACK TO SCENE
Gabriel lifts the package from his bed stand. He shakes it next to his ear, something jiggles inside. He moves it away from his ear with surprise.

Then with a guilty look he tears into it, unwrapping it quickly. It's a box.

He opens the box and inside is a key.  He looks at it quizically.

BEGIN MONTAGE
Gabriel tries the key in his bedroom door, it doesn't fit.

Gabriel tries the key in several other doors, it doesn't fit.

Gabriel tries the key in the front door, it doesn't fit.  
END MONTAGE

INT. FOYER
Gabriel looks around, out of ideas. Then he opens the front door and steps outside.

EXT. FRONT OF MANSION
There is only one car in the driveway.  The RV.  Gabriel glances at the key, then back to the RV. Then he takes a step forward.

AT THE RV
Gabriel tries the door but it's locked. He uses the key. It fits.

He turns the key. Click!

INT. RV
Gabriel opens the door and enters. It's like a little kitchen inside. On the table is a pile of papers.  

Gabriel walks over to them and picks one up.

GABRIEL
The releases...

CLICK!

Gabriel turns toward the sound.  Jeanna stands in the back of the RV.  A gun pointed at Gabriel held in her hand.  Gabriel sticks his hands up.

JEANNA
All signed and waiting for you.

GABRIEL
How...

JEANNA
I had them signed while everyone was waiting for you to get dressed.  Funny, even though they were all pissed off, they seemed very excited at the prospect of being on television.

GABRIEL
Who wouldn't...

JEANNA
Too bad you won't get to see the finished product.

Jeanna aims more carefully, one eye closes.  Gabriel panics.  

GABRIEL
Wait!

JEANNA
Wait? Wait?  How long am I supposed to wait? Let's see, it's been ten years, maybe twenty, maybe thirty...

She expects an answer but doesn't get one.

JEANNA
...fifty, till we're dead?  I can take care of that right now. Poison, I see, hath been his timeless end: O churl! drunk all, and left no friendly drop / To help me after? I will kiss thy lips; / Haply some poison yet doth hang on them, / To make die with a restorative.

Gabriel looks unimpressed.

GABRIEL
You're such a drama queen!  We aren't anywhere near Romeo and Juliet, they're much younger. And besides there's no way I'm going to have sex with you and that's final, so you can just let it drop.

JEANNA
I should just shoot you right now.

Gabriel stares her down.

GABRIEL
Go ahead. I dare you.

Jeanna's finger twitches on the trigger.

GABRIEL
I double dare...

BANG!

A look of surprise on Gabriel's face, an explosion of red on his shirt. He falls backwards toward the ground.

A look of regret crosses Jeanna's face.  She throws the gun from her hands, runs toward him.

She looks over his motionless body, her eyes fill with tears.

JEANNA
Oh! Gabriel.  I'm so sorry...

She kneels near his body.  She looks puzzled.  She shakes him.

JEANNA
Gabriel?  Gabriel!

She panics.

JEANNA
Are you ok?  Gabriel say something!

Gabriel sits up.

GABRIEL
Got ya!

Jeanna jumps back.

Gabriel laughs.

Jeanna recovers and slaps Gabriel on the shoulder.

JEANNA
You son of a bitch. You had me worried.

GABRIEL
Well you shot me.

JEANNA
But you knew it was a paint gun.

GABRIEL
What makes you think I knew?

JEANNA
You double dared me. You never double dare me unless you know I'm joking.

GABRIEL
You know me too well.

JEANNA
Not well enough lately.

GABRIEL
Stay around then and help with the show.

JEANNA
I'd like that. And I promise I won't try to seduce you again...Unless I'm drunk...Or feeling in a particularly vunerable mood...or...

Gabriel smiles at her as she continues on.

THE END

INT. MASTER BEDROOM
Gabriel rubs his head as he wakes.  He schluffs over to the door.  

INT. KITCHEN
Gabriel grabs himself a coffee.  He glances around.  Something is wrong.

INT. HALLWAY
Gabriel opens one of the guest door.  The room is empty.

He opens another, it is empty as well.

GABRIEL
Hello!

There is no answer.  Gabriel opens another door. Empty.

GABRIEL
Where'd they all go?

Gabriel rushes down the hall.

INT. POOL
Gabriel enters, no one is there.

EXT. MAZE
Gabriel walks the maze.  

GABRIEL
Hello?

INT. LIVING ROOM
The room is a mess but no one's in it.  Gabriel sits on the couch.  He looks a bit thoughtful.

GABRIEL
They didn't sign releases.

Then alarmed.

GABRIEL
Shit!  They didn't sign releases!

He stands and rushes out of the room.

INT. MASTER BEDROOM
Gabriel opens drawers pulling out the contents.

GABRIEL
Where'd I put them?

He scans the room. His eyes rest on his bed stand.  A small package sits there.

INT. LIVING ROOM - FLASHBACK
Jeana secretly pulls a small package from her pocket, and places it in Gabriel's hand. Her hands hug his for a moment.

He looks at her, and she, at him.

JEANA
Gabriel, this isn't the end. It's just the beginning.

Frances turns and looks disgusted.

Gabriel tucks it� in his pocket.

BACK TO SCENE
Gabriel lifts the package from his bed stand. He shakes it next to his ear, something jiggles inside. He moves it away from his ear with surprise.

Then with a guilty look he tears into it, unwrapping it quickly. It's a box.

He opens the box and inside is a key.  He looks at it quizically.

BEGIN MONTAGE
Gabriel tries the key in his bedroom door, it doesn't fit.

Gabriel tries the key in several other doors, it doesn't fit.

Gabriel tries the key in the front door, it doesn't fit.  
END MONTAGE

INT. FOYER
Gabriel looks around, out of ideas. Then he opens the front door and steps outside.

EXT. FRONT OF MANSION
There is only one car in the driveway.  The RV.  Gabriel glances at the key, then back to the RV. Then he takes a step forward.

AT THE RV
Gabriel tries the door but it's locked. He uses the key. It fits.

He turns the key. Click!

INT. RV
Gabriel opens the door and enters. It's like a little kitchen inside. On the table is a pile of papers.  

Gabriel walks over to them and picks one up.

GABRIEL
The releases...

CLICK!

Gabriel turns toward the sound.  Jeanna stands in the back of the RV.  A gun pointed at Gabriel held in her hand.  Gabriel sticks his hands up.

JEANNA
All signed and waiting for you.

GABRIEL
How...

JEANNA
I had them signed while everyone was waiting for you to get dressed.  Funny, even though they were all pissed off, they seemed very excited at the prospect of being on television.

GABRIEL
Who wouldn't...

JEANNA
Too bad you won't get to see the finished product.

Jeanna aims more carefully, one eye closes.  Gabriel panics.  

GABRIEL
Wait!

JEANNA
Wait? Wait?  How long am I supposed to wait? Let's see, it's been ten years, maybe twenty, maybe thirty...

She expects an answer but doesn't get one.

JEANNA
...fifty, till we're dead?  I can take care of that right now. Poison, I see, hath been his timeless end: O churl! drunk all, and left no friendly drop / To help me after? I will kiss thy lips; / Haply some poison yet doth hang on them, / To make die with a restorative.

Gabriel looks unimpressed.

GABRIEL
You're such a drama queen!  We aren't anywhere near Romeo and Juliet, they're much younger. And besides there's no way I'm going to have sex with you and that's final, so you can just let it drop.

JEANNA
I should just shoot you right now.

Gabriel stares her down.

GABRIEL
Go ahead. I dare you.

Jeanna's finger twitches on the trigger.

GABRIEL
I double dare...

BANG!

A look of surprise on Gabriel's face, an explosion of red on his shirt. He falls backwards toward the ground.

A look of regret crosses Jeanna's face.  She throws the gun from her hands, runs toward him.

She looks over his motionless body, her eyes fill with tears.

JEANNA
Oh! Gabriel.  I'm so sorry...

She kneels near his body.  She looks puzzled.  She shakes him.

JEANNA
Gabriel?  Gabriel!

She panics.

JEANNA
Are you ok?  Gabriel say something!

Gabriel sits up.

GABRIEL
Got ya!

Jeanna jumps back.

Gabriel laughs.

Jeanna recovers and slaps Gabriel on the shoulder.

JEANNA
You son of a bitch. You had me worried.

GABRIEL
Well you shot me.

JEANNA
But you knew it was a paint gun.

GABRIEL
What makes you think I knew?

JEANNA
You double dared me. You never double dare me unless you know I'm joking.

GABRIEL
You know me too well.

JEANNA
Not well enough lately.

GABRIEL
Stay around then and help with the show.

JEANNA
I'd like that. And I promise I won't try to seduce you again...Unless I'm drunk...Or feeling in a particularly vunerable mood...or...

DARNELL (O.S)
Unless she needs a rebound.

Darnell climbs in the RV. He smiles. Johnny climbs in after him, as does Cherry, Frances and Jimmy.

GABRIEL
Everyone's here! One big par - Hold on, wheres Roddy?

JOHNNY
Fire this baby up, big man.

Gabriel looks shocked.

The RV starts up - REVS and REVS and REVS.

The window between the main compartment and the drivers area slides down and Roddy sits in the drivers seat, with a drivers hat on.

GABRIEL
No, no, no! Roddy is not drivng this thing!

Roddy smiles, changes gears, and speeds off as the window slides up again.

RODDY
You can't fight it Gabriel... don't fight it! This is gotta happen!

Gabriel looks to each of the people one by one in the RV - looking for answers. Everyone smiles back at him.

Pause.

Gabriel sighs, smiles, leans back - relaxed.

GABRIEL
*insert last line here*

THE END

INT. MASTER BEDROOM - DAY

Mid morning.

Gabriel wakes up still groggy from last night. He glances at the other side of the bed. Jeana is gone.

GABRIEL
Jeana?

He struggles out of bed and staggers into the

INT. GUEST WING

Where he notices everyone has left their room.

Gabriel sees no one in the kitchen or living room.

He looks disappointed as if he expected everyone to be here.

GABRIEL
Guys?

INT. FOYER

Gabriel stumbles toward the foyer and looks out the window at the driveway. It�s empty except for the R.V.

He exits.

EXT. MANSION - FRONT

Gabriel heads towards the R.V.  As he approaches, he hears muffled laughter coming from the direction of the R.V.

The laughter gets louder as he gets closer.

He throws the door open and stares at the gang all inside.

The laughter reverberates in the narrow confines.

INT. R.V.

JEANA
Surprise sleepyhead!

Gabriel looks confused.

GABRIEL
What are you guys doing?

JEANA
We�re watching the DVD.

GABRIEL
You could have watched it in the home theater room, you know.

JEANA
I had to catch everyone before they left.

Gabriel looks thoroughly confused.

He steps into the R.V. and notes the gang watches the pool fight between Frances and Jeana. Laughing.

JEANA
I had to get the releases signed. Partner.

Johnny has the remote control and fast forwards to Cherry�s pool scene.

Cherry blushes and giggles.

CHERRY
I look --

JIMMY, RODDY AND DARNELL
Hello, nurse!

JOHNNY
With a little editing, this could be awesome. Hey, did you guys know that the phrase �Hello, nurse!� dates back to vaudeville --

FRANCES
Imagine us being stars --

JOHNNY
And is the same sounds used in the wolf whistle used to harass pretty girls --

RODDY
Shut up, T.V. boy.

Johnny ignores Roddy�s ribbing.

JOHNNY
I am almost glad I brought the ring. It was worth the agony.

He hugs Frances.

GABRIEL
What, you guys aren�t pissed?

Gabriel is showered with soda cans, beer cans, and water bottles -- whatever the gang was drinking.

He crouches down to escape the barrage. He stands up smiling with wet spots of various beverages on his shirt.

JEANA
It�s a good thing we hate each other or we�d never get along.

FADE OUT.