Stealing Blind
                       screenplay

                           by

                      Larry Hunter

                                               P.O. Box 6693
                                               Houston, Texas 
                                               77265
                                               281-498-0454
                                               colourwhirl@cs.com

                         STEALING BLIND

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

EXT. TWO YOUNG BOYS RUNNING DOWN THE STREET-3:00AM

                                            CUT TO:

TWO BLACK YOUNG BOYS are running down the street while
alarms are going off at a nearby PAWN SHOP. They run to a
big wood fence in an alley and climb over. DOGS are barking.
After climbing the fence, they run faster down the street.
They stop to catch their breath. Their names are PJ and LQ.
PJ looks around.

                         PJ
                  (sits down on the curve)
             I think we in the clear.....

He pulls out some gold chains, rings and watches. LQ pulls
out a stack of money from his jacket pocket.

                         LQ
                  (smiles)
             Can't get no better than this! I
             love it.....

                                            CUT TO:

A BIG BLACK DOG is running right at them from down the
street. He is growling. LQ and PJ see him coming and they
take off running....

LQ and PJ look back. The dog is gaining.

                                            CUT BACK TO:

                         LQ AND PJ
             Ah, shit! One hundred yard dash,
             come on!

LQ and PJ take off running down the street into an alley.
The BIG BLACK DOG corner them off as he stares and growls.

                         LQ
                  (freezes)
             PJ...Don't move...Just stare him
             in the eyes.

                                                            2.

                         PJ
             Are you crazy! Look at his eyes!

The BIG BLACK DOG is growling and ease up on PJ and LQ. He
leaps at them.

                         LQ
             Ah! Shit!

LQ and PJ jump the fence with ease, like climbing a ladder,
leaving their shoes behind. The BIG BLACK DOG is left
standing there, growling and tearing into the shoes.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO:

EXT. UP THE STREET

LQ and PJ are out of breath.

                         LQ
                  (out of breath)
             He acted like he hated us, man!

                         PJ
             I think he was getting back at us
             for hitting that pawn shop....

                         LQ
             I think you're right, Dog....He
             looked like that same  dog that
             was in the back, barking.

LQ and PJ slap hands.

                         PJ
             I'm outta here....Gotta get home
             before Dad checks my room....

                         LQ
             Yeah...See ya in the morning.

FADE TO

MUSIC-HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO:

                                                            3.

INT. MEMORIAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE HIGH SCHOOL-LOCKERS-HALLWAY-
HOUSTON, TEXAS

LQ AND PJ are opening their lockers. Kids are passing by
going to class.

                         LQ
                  (taking books from locker)
             Listen, My dad caught me coming
             in late last night....Ask a lot
             of questions.

                         PJ
                  (closing his locker)
             My mom was waiting up on me last
             night. I told her that I was over
             at your house studying for the
             finals.

                         LQ
                  (smiles)
             I told my dad the same thing.....

They do a hip touch of the hand. A PRETTY YOUNG BLACK GIRL
comes up to the lockers. She is LQ'S girlfriend.Her name is
Deshae.

                         DESHAE
                  (angry)
             What happened to you last night,
             LQ? I thought we were suppose to
             study for the test at my
             house.....PJ,I need to talk with
             this liar alone if you don't mind...

                         PJ
                  (looks at LQ)
             No problem, Dashae......

LQ tucks his books under his arms and tips away.

                         LQ
                  (explains)
             Listen, Dashae.....I got tied up
             with my first cousin who just
             came into town.....

DASHAE doesn't believe a word he is telling her....

                         DASHAE
                  (unbelievable look)
             Don't even go there, LQ....

                                                            4.

                         LQ
             Come on, Let me finish.....This
             is what happened....

LQ and DASHAE walk away from the lockers down the hall.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO:

INT. CRIMINOLOGY CLASS ROOM-MORNING

LQ and PJ are sitting in their favorite CRIMINOLOGY CLASS.
Whites, Blacks and Hispanics eyes are on the board as the
sound of chalk taps across the BLACK BOARD.

                                            CUT TO:

The TEACHER, A WHITE MALE is writing on the BLACK BOARD. He
write the words, CRIMINOLOGY, CRIME, LAW BREAKER,
THIEF,CRIMINAL and CRIMINOLOGIST. The TEACHER turns to the
class after writing the words on the board.

                                            CUT TO:

LQ and PJ sitting across from each other. They smile and tap
each other's hand.

                                            CUT TO:

The TEACHER looks across the room to single out LQ and PJ.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (lays the chalk on his desk)
             Mr. Quincy and Mr. Johnson. I
             think you're reading my mind this
             morning.You have a big smile on
             your face.

PJ and LQ look at each other and laugh. The rest of the
class laughs also.

                         LQ
             Prof, I just feel happy this
             morning.

                         PJ
             Me too, Prof......

The TEACHER sits on the side of his desk.

                                                            5.

                         THE TEACHER
             Then both of you had a good night
             I presume.

                         LQ
                  (smiles)
             Very good, Prof.....

They both laugh.

                         THE TEACHER
             I see.....

The TEACHER gets up from the desk and points to the board.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (continues)
             How many of you are going to
             adventure into Criminology?......

FOUR STUDENTS raise their hands including LQ and PJ.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (continues)
             Very good.....PJ....Define
             Criminology...

PJ and LQ slap hands and laughs.

                         PJ
                  (smiles)
             That's easy, Prof.....uh
             Criminology...

PJ thinks for a moment.

                         PJ
                  (continues)
             Uh, Cri-mi-no-logy.....Ain't that
             when a person tries to get in the
             minds of criminals, something
             like a Shrink.

Everybody laughs.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (downs his head and smiles)
             Well, that's another way of
             defining it, PJ.....LQ,do you
             have a better answer that's not
             so funny.....

                                                            6.

                         LQ
                  (confident)
             To break it down Prof. into a
             simple text......

                         THE CLASS
                  (laughs)
             Whoa!

LQ acts very cocky before he answers the question.

                         LQ
             Criminology is a study of crimes
             and criminals. You know what I'm
             saying?

LQ and PJ get up to celebrate by slapping other classmates'
hands.

                                            CUT TO

FADE TO

SOUND: THE BELL RINGS

Everybody gather their books and begin to exit the classroom.

                         THE TEACHER
             Remember your homework for tomorrow!

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

EXT. LQ AND PJ HIDING IN THE BUSHES ACROSS THE STREET FROM A
BIG EXPENSIVE LOOKING HOUSE.

LQ and PJ are looking at the BIG HOUSE across the street.

                                            CUT TO

A WHITE COUPLE are loading up their automobile for a weekend
trip. Their daughter, JESSICA is getting in the back seat of
the 2003 BLACK SUV.

                         PJ
                  (sits on the ground)
             Listen. You sure Jessica bragged
             about her mother having all this
             expensive jewelry hid away under
             her bed?

                                                            7.

                         LQ
             Have I ever lied to you, PJ? You
             know she likes to brag about how
             rich her parents are.....Not
             knowing our special trade. She
             even told me that they were all
             going away on a trip for the week
             end......

                                            CUT TO

JESSICA and her PARENT drive away.

                                            CUT TO

PJ and LQ watch as the SUV drives into the dark streets.

                         LQ
             Let's go!

                         PJ
             Wait! Suppose they have an alarm
             system.

                         LQ
             They don't. She told me her
             mother always gets on her dad
             about getting an alarm system
             install.

                         PJ
             I love being a thief!

                         LQ
             It's an art, bro. It take skills.
             Now come on....Remember. We have
             to do Prof's homework for tomorrow.

                         PJ
             Yeah! This is it for real!

They put on their mask and laugh.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

INT. CRIMINOLOGY CLASS ROOM-NEXT MORNING

STUDENTS are entering the classroom to take their seats.
They are chatting among each other as they sit. The TEACHER
enters the classroom. Students continue to talk.

                                                            8.

The TEACHER drops a book on the floor. Everybody get quiet.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (puts on his glasses)
             Thank you....That's better.

A WHITE BOY STUDENT opens the door to the classroom
interrupting the TEACHER. He heads toward his seat but trips
and falls. The CLASS LAUGHS. The BOY gets up and moves
quickly to his seat.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (continues)
             Mark Randolph...If you would
             learn how to tie your shoes
             before coming to school,
             accidents like that wouldn't
             happen......

MARK slides down in his seat. The CLASS LAUGHS.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (continues)
             Jonvet....What is the homework
             for this morning?

JONVET is a smart WHITE GIRL. She pulls her glasses up in a
proper way, opens her notebook and begins to read off the
assign homework to the class.

                         JONVET
                  (reads from notes)
             Define and compare the similarity
             of law breakers, thieves, crime
             and criminals, criminology and
             criminologist, sir.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (goes over to the board)
             Very good, Jonvet. Now who wants
             to elaborate on the first
             comparison?

PJ raises his hand. The TEACHER acknowledges.

                         THE TEACHER
             PJ.

                         PJ
                  (continues)
             I figure like this, Prof. A law
             breaker is a coward. He's sneaky,
             right?
                         (MORE)

                                                            9.

                         PJ (CONT'D)
             Sly like a fox, trying to get
             away with stuff like parking in
             the Handicap area and know dam
             well he or she is not cripple.
             Now I got an old rich uncle does
             that and he's as healthy as I am.
             He gets out of his SUV limping
             every time he parks in a handicap
             zone.

The CLASS laughs. PJ and LQ slaps hands.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (downs his head)
             PJ. The D word is not allowed in
             my classroom.

PJ apologizes as the CLASS just smirks.

                         PJ
             Sorry, Prof. I just got carried
             away. Law Breakers stink.

The CLASS laughs again.

                         THE TEACHER
             Class! Let's get through this! Do
             you want to continue, PJ?

                         PJ
                  (shakes his head)
             I think I want my boy, LQ to
             continue, Prof. We talk about
             this all the time. It's like an
             on going topic with us.

                         THE TEACHER
             Okay. LQ. Do you agree to
             elaborate on the subject matter
             of Law Breaker and Thief?

LQ pauses as the CLASS are looking for him to elaborate.

                         LQ
             I can do that, Prof. To me a law
             breaker runs stop signs, traffic
             light, drives wrong way on a one
             way street......He or she does
             everything the opposite of the
             law, tax invasion, nothing
             tangible. Politicians breaks the
             law all the time.
                         (MORE)

                                                           10.

                         LQ (CONT'D)
             You know what I'm saying? And
             they make the law. This is why
             they can break it.

The CLASS cheers him on as they clap. LQ gets up from his
desk and walks to the head of the class.

                         LQ
             Now, a thief. I admire a thief.
             He can steal you blind, but it's
             an art to do that.

                         CLASS
             Whoa!

FADE TO

SOUND: FIRE DRILL BELL SOUNDS OFF

                                            CUT TO

The STUDENTS in the classroom rush to the door.

                         THE TEACHER
             Okay, everyone! Remember the
             rules when we have a fire drill,
             please. single file!

FADE TO

MUSIC: R&B

                                            CUT TO

INT. SHAKES DINER-EVENING-5:00PM

DASHAE and LQ are sitting eating at a table. DASHAE need
some answers.

                         DASHAE
                  (serious)
             Is there someone else, LQ?
             Because if it is, I can step.

                         LQ
             You know I love you , baby--and
             it's no one else, you understand.
             I'm just doing some experimenting.
             That's all.

                                                           11.

                         DASHAE
             Yeah, right! What kind of
             experimenting you're doing at
             night beside getting into some
             other woman's panties,
             huh?...Listen I don't have any
             time to play games, LQ.

                         LQ
                  (angry)
             Why do black women always think
             black men are screwing
             around?.....I told you, I'm
             experimenting on something that
             has to do with my Criminology
             class....It has nothing to do
             with us, baby...Believe me....

LQ touches her hand on the table, but DASHAE snatches it
away, picks up her purse, stands up from the table, stares
at LQ and leaves him there. LQ sits there with his head down.
His cell phone rings. He takes it from his coat pocket. He
slowly puts it up to his ear.

                         LQ
             I'm on my way.......

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

EXT. HOUSE-NIGHT

LQ and PJ are in a dark house with flash lights. They are
going through dresser draws. PJ finds a gun. He holds it up.

                         LQ
             You crazy?! Put that away, man!
             Let's go! It's nothing of value
             here! Leave everything as it was,
             okay?

                         PJ
             I'm taking this with me....

LQ snatches the gun from PJ'S hand and put it back in the
drawer.

                         LQ
             That's nothing but trouble PJ.

                                                           12.

                         PJ
             Okay! Okay!

                         LQ
             You're beginning to take this
             experiment too serious, PJ. Maybe
             we should just stop this right
             now....

                         PJ
             I'm sorry man. It won't happen
             again.

FADE TO

MUSIC: R&B

                                            CUT TO

EXT. STOP N GO STORE-EVENING-10:00PM

PJ walks in the STOP N GO with a Trench Coat on. He walks
down one aisle and start putting can goods in his coat
pockets. He stops for a moment as if he is looking at
something on the shelves. An elderly woman passes him up as
she looks strangely at him. He begins to take small items
like tooth brushes and tooth paste from the shelves. He
looks around like a mad man.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

EXT. PJ'S HOUSE-BEDROOM-EVENING-NEXT DAY

PJ and LQ are doing their homework for school the next
morning. PJ throws his pencil down and starts prancing.

                         LQ
             Hey, man....What's wrong? You are
             acting like a guilty person, PJ.
             We got a good idea what a thief
             feels like inside when he steals
             folks blind. Maybe it is a
             disease or dope mentality. You
             know what I'm saying?

                         PJ
                  (sits down)
             I don't know...I do know I'm
             beginning to feel like a real
             thief, LQ.

                                                           13.

                         LQ
                  (suggests)
             Write it down, man....Nobody in
             class is  going to be able to
             touch us on this topic. Most
             classic thieves don't steal
             because they need to....It's a
             habit and they enjoy it. When I
             go off to college, this subject
             I'm gonna specialize in.

PJ'S  FATHER walks in the room. He's looking very sad.

                         PJ'S FATHER
             Listen PJ. I got some sad news.

LQ and PJ look at each other.

                         PJ'S FATHER
                  (continues)
             My oldest brother and your uncle
             passed away this morning.

                         PJ
                  (tears flowing down
                  his cheeks)
             Not Uncle Ross, Daddy....I just
             saw him this morning......

                         PJ'S FATHER
                  (explains)
             He died in his sleep while taking
             a nap........Bless his soul.......

PJ'S FATHER is wearing UNCLE ROSS'S DIAMOND RING. PJ notices
the RING on his FATHER'S finger.

                         PJ
             That's Uncle Ross's ring!

                         PJ'S FATHER
             It sure is and it's going to the
             grave with your uncle. He
             requested that.

                         LQ
                  (eyes lights up)
             Is that a real diamond, Mr.Johnson?

                         PJ'S FATHER
             Ten thousand dollars real, LQ.

                                                           14.

                         PJ
             Could I just touch it for a
             second, Dad?

PJ'S FATHER raises his hand for his son to take a look while
LQ peeps over the PJ'S shoulder.

FADE TO

MUSIC: SPIRITUAL MUSIC-ORGAN-NEXT MORNING

                                            CUT TO

INT. FUNERAL HOME-MORNING-10:00AM

The Body of UNCLE ROSS is out for viewing to the intermediate
family. PJ comes early before anyone gets there. The
UNDERTAKER is in his office going through some papers. PJ
stops at the door and peeps in.

                         PJ
             I come to view my Uncle Ross, sir.

                         THE UNDERTAKER
                  (points to the area)
             Follow the hallway, son.

PJ walks down the hallway into the room where his UNCLE ROSS
lays in an expensive looking casket. PJ takes a look at him,
pauses while tears run down his cheeks. He dries the tears
from his eyes, pulls out a ring that looks just like the
ring on his uncle's finger.

                         PJ
                  (pauses)
             Forgive me, Uncle Ross, but it's
             no sense in taking all this money
             into the ground with you.....

PJ takes the ring from his uncle's finger. He puts it in his
pocket and places the other imitation ring on his uncle's
finger. It looks identical to the real one.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

                                                           15.

INT. HAMBURGER PLACE-EVENING-NEXT DAY

KIARA, PJ'S girlfriend is sitting down in a booth drinking a
soda. She is waiting on PJ.

                                            CUT TO

PJ walks in and goes over to the booth. He looks around just
like a thief or something. KIARA notices as he sits down.

                         KIARA
                  (looks strange)
             PJ! Is something wrong? You're
             acting kind of strange.....

                         PJ'S
             No...Everything is fine.....Did
             you wanna see me about
             something?.....

                         KIARA
                  (smiles)
             I just wanted to see your face.
             We suppose to have a relationship
             going on here. It's been awhile,
             you know.

                         PJ
                  (eyes her diamond ring)
             Sorry...Been busy with homework
             and all.....Especially that
             criminology course.....Prof got
             us humping with homework.....

                         KIARA
                  (curious)
             You still thinking about studying
             criminology?

                         PJ
                  (looks at ring)
             Yeah...Uh. Is that for real you
             wearing on your finger?...

                         KIARA
             I guess so. It's been in my
             family for years. My grandmother
             gave it to me before she die.

PJ pauses as he takes KIARA hand to take a closer look.

                         PJ
             You mind taking it off?

                                                           16.

KIARA looks strangely at PJ.

                         KIARA
             I just wanna examine it closely.
             Remember, I am a curious person
             from being in that criminology
             course.....

KIARA pulls off the ring and hand it to PJ. PJ holds it up
to his eyes. He continues to hold it.

                         KIARA
                  (not sure)
             Can I have my ring back now. I
             feel bare without it.

PJ snaps to attention and gives it back to KIARA.

                         KIARA
                  (continues)
             Are you sure you're all right, PJ?
             You don't seem like yourself.

PJ pauses. His cell phone rings.

                         PJ
             What's up?........ Ah, man! Come
             on! It'll be like taking candy
             from a baby. Okay!
             Okay!........I'll go alone!

PJ closes the cell phone and puts it back in his coat pocket.

                         KIARA
                  (curious)
             What was that all about?

                         PJ
             Listen....Check you later. I
             gotta go.

                         KIARA
             Just like that, huh? Reverse that!
             I'm gone!

KIARA leaves PJ sitting at the table as she walks out the
HAMBURGER PLACE.

FADE TO

MUSIC: R & B

                                            CUT TO

                                                           17.

INT. YOUR PAWN SHOP-NEXT DAY-EVENING

PJ is showing his UNCLE'S ROSS diamond ring to the OWNER of
YOUR PAWN SHOP. The OWNER looks the diamond ring over. He
shakes his head and put up five fingers. PJ snatches the
ring up and turns to leave. PJ turns back around and put up
six fingers. The OWNER nods and gives PJ six thousand cash
dollars. PJ rolls the money up and stuff it in his pockets.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

INT. MEMORIAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE HIGH SCHOOL-LOCKERS-HALLWAY-
HOUSTON-MORNING

LQ and PJ are arguing with each other. LQ slams his locker.

                         LQ
             That's it! No more, PJ. You are
             getting out of control!

                         PJ
             I'm not out of control, LQ. I
             just thought---

                         LQ
             PJ....Carjacking is not what I
             have in mind. This was a game to
             apply classroom theory to real
             life situations. To put ourselves
             into a thief's environment that
             would help us later down the road.
             All the things we took, I mailed
             it back to the owners with a no
             return address.

                         PJ
             You did what?!

PJ slams his locker.

                         PJ
             I can't believe this! You should
             have told me, LQ. I could use
             some extra cash when I go off to
             college....Man you are so----

PJ walks away angry.

                                            CUT TO

                                                           18.

INT. CRIMINOLOGY CLASSROOM

Students are taking their seats. The TEACHER walks in the
classroom. He puts his briefcase on the desk.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (front of class)
             Could I get your attention, please?

The STUDENTS take their seats. Everybody get quiet as they
wait to hear the lesson for today. The TEACHER pulls off his
coat.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (continues)
             I have an announcement to make.
             And this is a volunteer project
             for the class. You don't have to
             participate.

The TEACHER sits on the side of the desk. He opens his
briefcase and pull out some forms. He put a stack of forms
on each person's desk in front of the class. The STUDENTS
begin to pass each form down the row to each other.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (sits down at desk)
             Now since most of you are going
             to study criminology in college,
             the school and I thought this
             field trip to Clear Lake Juvenile
             Detention Center would  be an
             interesting hands on hands
             experience.

The CLASSROOM is quiet.

                         THE TEACHER
             Are there any question?

A STUDENT raises her hand.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (continues)
             Yes...Pambela....

                         PAMBELA
                  (clears her throat)
             Are we actual going to see these
             young criminals.

The CLASS laughs.

                                                           19.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (smiles)
             Not only are you going to see
             them, you are going to interview
             them. This is your opportunity to
             apply classroom theory to real
             life experiences of young boys
             and girls who took a wrong turn.

                                            CUT TO

PJ and LQ look over at each other.

                         PJ
                  (apologizes)
             I'm sorry,man.

LQ nods his head.

                                            CUT TO

The Teacher walks down the aisle with forms in his hand.

                         THE TEACHER
             How many of you think you would
             like to go on this field trip?

EVERYBODY raises their hands.

                         THE TEACHER
             Good! Sign this form and pass it
             up to the front, please.

All the STUDENTS sign the forms and quickly pass them up to
the front desk. The TEACHER collects all the forms and place
them on his desk.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (continues)
             Before we continue our lesson for
             today, I have one question.

The TEACHER sits on the side of his desk.

                         THE TEACHER
             What motivates a thief? Why does
             he or she steals. Is a game, fun
             or what?

LQ and PJ look at each other as another HISPANIC STUDENT
raises his hand.

                         THE TEACHER
             Yes...Ramero......

                                                           20.

                         CRUZ
                  (puts pencil behind ear)
             My cousin told me it's like
             taking candy from a baby....He
             enjoys the feeling.

The CLASS laughs.

                         CLASS
                  (chants)
             Ratting on your cousin!

                         RAMERO
                  (downs his head)
             It's not like that....He told me
             that before he died, man.....

EVERYBODY get quiet.

FADE TO

SOUND: BELL RINGS

                                            CUT TO

STUDENTS gather their things and head for the door.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (reminds)
             Remember! Field Trip is Friday!

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

EXT. STREETS-LATE NIGHT

PJ is watching from across the street. A COUPLE gets out of
a 2004 STEEL GRAY MERCEDES. They are laughing and kissing.
The Man closes the door and forgets to lock the car.

                         PJ'S
             Perfect! He's so in love, he
             forgot to lock his car....Like
             taking candy from a baby. He laughs.

PJ look at his hands.

                         PJ
                  (continues)
             Let's go to work. Apply classroom
             theory to the real thing. I love it!

                                                           21.

PJ runs across the street. He opens the door and quickly
proceeds to hot wire the automobile when the keys to the car
dangles in his face. He laughs.

                         PJ'S
                  (continues)
             Fool.....Musta thought this side
             of town was safe....Sucker!

PJ quickly starts the car and speeds off.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

EXT. COLLISION OUTLET GARAGE FRONT DOOR-EARLY MORNING

                                            CUT TO

PJ speeds up to the COLLISION OUTLET DOOR. He jumps out the
car and begins knocking on the door.

                                            CUT TO

INT. COLLISION OUTLET

A young WHITE MALE stands at the door, listening to the
knock on the door. Other stolen cars are in the warehouse.

                         WHITE MALE
                  (ear to the door)
             Yeah! Whose there?!

He pulls a gun from his backside and holds it up high above
his head.

EXT. COLLISION OUTLET

                                            CUT TO

PJ is looking around as if someone is watching him.

                         PJ'S
             It's me! PJ! Open the door Jimmy!
             I got something for you!

The door is opening slowly. PJ jumps back in the car and
waits impatiently while the door clears.

                         PJ
                  (continues)
             Come on, come on!

                                                           22.

The door finally opens. PJ burns rubber into the garage.
JIMMY jumps out the way!

                                            CUT TO

INT. COLLISION OUTLET

                         JIMMY
                  (smiles)
             Whoa! My man! She's a beauty, PJ.
             I didn't know you had it in you.....

PJ jumps out the car.

                         PJ
                  (happy)
             Yeah! I feel good!

PJ looks at his hands.

                         PJ
                  (continues)
             These hands got talent, Jimmy!

JIMMY and PJ slap each other hand. JIMMY put his hands on PJ
shoulders and look him in the eyes.

                         JIMMY
                  (smiles)
             My man....Welcome to the real
             world...You got class.....

JIMMY goes in his pocket to pay PJ.

                         JIMMY
                  (continues)
             Name your price, PJ.

PJ shakes his head.

                         PJ
                  (suggests)
             No! Not now! My father and mother
             just might find the money in the
             house.

                         JIMMY
                  (smiles)
             Parents do get a little nosy some
             times.

                                                           23.

                         PJ
                  (serious)
             I want you to put the money in a
             bank account for me. Hold on to
             it until I finish high school
             next semester. Okay?

                         JIMMY
             I can do that, PJ.....But don't
             you wanna know how much it is.....

                         PJ
                  (looks around)
             Money is secondary action to this.
             I know you gonna do the right
             thing. You see, Jimmy, I love
             sneaking around like a cat
             looking for a mouse, and suddenly
             there's the catch. It's an art,
             Jimmy.....

PJ pats JIMMY on the shoulder.

                         JIMMY
                  (amaze)
             Yeah! It really is, to think
             about it....Like I said, you got
             class, PJ.

PJ turns to leave.

                         PJ
             And I got classes in the morning
             too....I'm outta here.....Yes!

PJ walks toward the door as it raises.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

INT. PJ'S HOUSE-BACK DOOR-1:00AM

PJ is sneaking in the backdoor of his house. He tips down
the hallway pass the kitchen.

                                            CUT TO

KITCHEN TABLE

                                                           24.

PJ'S FATHER is sitting at the table drinking a glass of milk
while he look over some papers. He pulls off his glasses. He
hears PJ passing by the kitchen.

                         FATHER
                  (yells)
             PJ! Is that you?

                                            CUT TO

Right before PJ climb the stairs to his room, he stops with
a guilt look on his face.

                         PJ
             Yes, sir......

                                            CUT TO

KITCHEN

FATHER continues to look over some important papers.

                         FATHER
             Could you step in here a minute?

PJ doesn't know what to expect. Maybe his FATHER is on to
what he is doing. PJ walks in the kitchen. His FATHER is
still busy with the papers.

                         FATHER
                  (continues)
             Have a seat......

                         PJ
             I have classes in the morning, Dad.

                         FATHER
                  (never looks up)
             Listen. Have you decided for sure
             you wanna go to a Criminology
             college? I thought you would have
             liked to be a Dentist like
             me....I could turn the business
             over to you when the time comes.

                         PJ
                  (takes a deep breath)
             I'm sure, Dad. The  Medical field
             just isn't for me.

                                                           25.

                         FATHER
                  (looks over papers)
             All right...Decide where you
             wanna go so I can start putting
             away your tuition. It's your
             decision.

PJ gets up. His FATHER is still looking over his papers.

                         PJ
             Can I go now, Dad?

PJ'S FATHER never looks up. He is still signing and looking
through his papers.

                         FATHER
             That's it....Keep doing well in
             school....

PJ turns to leave.

                         FATHER
                  (continues)
             And another thing.

PJ takes another deep breath as he turns back around.

                         FATHER
                  (continues)
             Try not to make any noise. Your
             mother hasn't been feeling well
             lately.

                         PJ
             Okay, Dad.......

PJ turns and take another deep breath.

FADE TO

MUSIC: R & B

                                            CUT TO

INT. MEMORIAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE HIGH SCHOOL-LOCKERS-HALLWAY-
HOUSTON-MORNING

PJ and LQ are talking at their lockers. LQ is curious
because PJ seems so far apart from him.

                                                           26.

                         LQ
                  (curious)
             What's up, PJ? You don't like my
             company anymore since I'm not
             playing the game....What's up
             with this?

                         PJ'S
             Come on, LQ. It's nothing like
             that. I just needed some space
             time. Trying to figure out this
             college thing, that's all....We
             still cut for each other. You
             know what I'm saying?

                         LQ
                  (shakes his head)
             I don't know....I just hope you
             ain't doing nothing
             foolish....Remember Bro. In the
             long run, crime doesn't pay. You
             know what I'm saying? Sooner or
             later you wind up in prison.

LQ leaves PJ standing in his tracks.

                                            CUT TO

INT. CLASSROOM

STUDENTS are standing around their desks chatting and
snickering with each other.

                                            CUT TO

CLASSROOM FLOOR

A MOUSE runs across the floor.

                                            CUT TO

A BIG WHITE MALE STUDENT sees the mouse. He starts screaming.

                         WHITE MALE STUDENT
                  (jumps up on his desk)
             A rodent! I hate them things.

The CLASS laughs.

                         A STUDENT
             It's just a little mouse, Bruce!
             For God sakes, man!

                                            CUT TO

                                                           27.

FLOOR

The MOUSE disappears underneath the front door. BRUCE is
still standing on the his desk looking at the floor. The
TEACHER comes in and sees BRUCE standing on top of his desk.

                         THE TEACHER
             Bruce! What are you doing?.....

BRUCE immediately gets down from the desk.

                         BRUCE
             Sorry, Prof.

The CLASS laughs.

                         THE TEACHER
             Whatever it is class. Keep it to
             yourselves.....Now first thing
             first. Did everyone bring their
             permission slips for the field
             trip tomorrow?

STUDENTS takes out their permission slips.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (looks at his watch)
             Jonvet....Would you mind
             collecting the forms for me?

                         JONVET
                  (smiles)
             No problem Prof.

JONVET immediately gets up and starts collecting the
permission slips. The TEACHER looks at his watch.

                                            CUT TO

CLASSROOM FRONT DOOR

MR. STANDFORD, a middle age black male opens the door and
walks in the room carrying a black briefcase.

                                            CUT TO

STUDENTS whisper to each other.

                                            CUT TO

THE FRONT OF CLASSROOM

THE TEACHER greets MR. STANFORD as he enters.

                                                           28.

                         THE TEACHER
             Oh! Mr. Stanford. I'm glad you
             could make it on such a short
             notice.

                         MR. STANFORD
             No problem....Sorry I'm late.
             City traffic.....

                         THE TEACHER
             That's understandable with all
             the construction going on.....

THE TEACHER turns to the class as MR. STANFORD stands
quietly by the desk.

                         THE TEACHER
                  (continues)
             Class. Listen up! Mr. Stanford is
             a writer that focuses on
             Juveniles in Detention centers
             especially the one you are going
             to visit tomorrow. Please give
             him your divided attention.

MR. STANFORD steps forward.

                         MR. STANFORD
             Good morning to all of you.

The STUDENTS responds slowly. Some greet and others don't
say a word. The TEACHER sits down at his desk and start
grading papers.

                         THE STUDENTS
             Morning......

                         MR. STANFORD
             This field trip is going to be a
             rude awakening for most of you. I
             want to share with you some
             inside stories that I've
             published of the kids in detention.

                         PJ
                  (excited)
             Are we really gonna get a chance
             to see these criminals?

The CLASS laughs.

                                                           29.

                         MR. STANFORD
                  (defends)
             Not all of them are hard core
             criminals yet. Just because they
             went wrong somewhere in their
             young lives doesn't mean they
             can't reform. Most of them do
             have a lawful hidden talent.

MR. STANFORD walks over to his briefcase laying on the desk.
He opens it and take out a stack of books.

                         MR. STANFORD
                  (continues)
             Could I get a volunteer to pass
             these out.

JONVET jumps up and hurries to the front of the class. MR.
STANFORD gives her the stack of books. She begins to pass
them out to each student.

                         MR. STANFORD
                  (front of class)
             And please, do not mark in the
             books. I want all of you to take
             fifteen minutes to read some of
             the stories and poems that these
             kids have written. Kind of put
             yourselves in their shoes for a
             moment and we can elaborate later.

JONVET passes the last book out and takes a seat. The CLASS
bury their heads into the books. They are very quiet as the
sound of pages turn. The expression on some faces are
unbelievable.

                         RAMERO
                  (curious)
             Did they write this?

MR. STANFORD nods and smiles.

                         LQ
                  (turning pages)
             Amazing!

                         JONVET
                  (turning pages)
             How old are these kids?

                         MR. STANFORD
             Eleven to fifteen.

                                                           30.

                         JONVET
                  (impressed)
             Interesting.

JONVET raises her hand.

                         MR. STANFORD
             Yes......

JONVET stands up and clears her throat.

                         JONVET
             Do you mind if I read one of
             these poems out loud to the class?

                         MR. STANFORD
                  (smiles)
             My, pleasure Ms......

                         JONVET
             Jonvet.....

The TEACHER look up from his papers for a moment, pull off
his glasses and smiles. JONVET stands by her desk and begin
reading from the book.

                         JONVET
                  (reading)
             LIVING LIKE A CHAMP. I was born a
             child, but I grew up too fast. I
             walked the streets with that dope
             and kept a stash, things seemed
             so easy, but at once I was
             caught, I got away with a lot,
             and felt it wasn't my fault, I
             had a crew full of hard heads, so
             I ran with the click, I was
             raised up in Smith Park, match
             box full of bricks, I wish I
             never had, but I guess I'll leave
             soon, a true "G" from the heart,
             but an angel from my mother's
             womb. Writer unknown.

THE CLASSROOM is silent.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

                                                           31.

INT. CLEAR LAKE JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER-MORNING

MEMORIAL CRIMINOLOGY STUDENTS are sitting interviewing
JUVENILES. The JUVENILES are sitting across the table from
the STUDENTS. Their COUNSELORS are sitting at the end of the
table just in case there is a problem.

                         PJ
                  (taking notes)
             And you're just thirteen?  Uh,
             what happened?

YOUNG WHITE MALE looks nonchalance at PJ. He is tapping his
fingers on the table.

                         COUNSELOR
                  (shouts)
             Frank! Stop that!

The YOUNG WHITE MALE immediately stops tapping the table
with his fingers.

                         YOUNG WHITE MALE
                  (leans over table)
             Are you just here to get into my
             head or what? Why are you here?

                         PJ
             Because it's part of my homework.
             And I admire people who break the
             law and doesn't expect to get
             caught. I bet  it was fun before
             you got caught, uh?

The YOUNG WHITE MALE looks unconcern.

                         THE YOUNG WHITE MALE
             Everything I did, bro was for
             revenge. If my father......

The YOUNG WHITE MALE sobs a little.

                         PJ
                  (surprise)
             Listen....I didn't mean to stir
             up nothing, man.

The YOUNG WHITE MALE gives his eyes a quick wipe, trying to
gather his tough ego.

                         THE YOUNG WHITE MALE
             My father was shot dead when I
             was only five years old. And the
             law didn't find the killer....

                                                           32.

                         PJ
             Sorry......

                         THE YOUNG WHITE MALE
                  (downs his head)
             This bad ass tried to take our
             car outside the supermarket and
             my father resisted.....The son-of
             bitch just shot him, man right in
             front of me and my mama.  My
             mother moved from city to city
             trying to forget what had
             happened later. Even changed our
             last name........And when the law
             didn't find who did it, later I
             held it against them. I see my
             father's face all the time laying
             in a pool of blood. I just didn't
             care anymore, so I started
             jacking folks when I got
             older....I don't have any respect
             for the law. You know what I'm
             saying?

                         PJ
             That's tough.....Listen....Take
             my phone number.

PJ writes his phone number down on a piece of paper.

                         PJ
                  (continues)
             If you need to talk sometimes,
             call me.

THE YOUNG WHITE MALE takes the phone number and folds it up
and stuff the number in his shirt pocket.

                         THE YOUNG WHITE MALE
             Yeah....Do you really mean that?

                         PJ
             Might just keep you busy if I'm
             available when you get
             out.....What's your name?

                         THE YOUNG WHITE MALE
             We're not allowed to give out our
             real name.....but you can call me
             Sticky.

They shakes hands.

                                                           33.

                         PJ
             My pleasure, Sticky.....

                                            CUT TO

LQ is interviewing a ELEVEN YEAR OLD YOUNG BLACK GIRL.

                         BLACK GIRL
                  (flirts)
             You kind of cute, you know that?
             Can I have your phone number?
             When I get out----

                         LQ
                  (smiles)
             That's against the rule. You know
             that. Anyway you just eleven
             years old.

                         BLACK GIRL
                  (flirts)
             That doesn't matter. I can be
             what ever age you want me to be.

LQ clears his throat as THE BLACK GIRL touches his hand on
the table. LQ slowly moves his hand away. The COUNSELOR
takes his eyes up from his magazine and stares at THE BLACK
GIRL.

                         COUNSELOR
                  (slams the magazine on
                  the table)
             Sand! Do you wanna go to your room?!

                         SANDRA
             No sir......

                         COUNSELOR
             Show some respect! Okay!

THE COUNSELOR continues to read his magazine as LQ interviews
the BLACK GIRL.

                         LQ
             So your name is Sand.....

                         BLACK GIRL
             Not really. That's my nick name!
             Anyway, my mama calls me that.
             You know how black folks cut your
             name short, even their lives.

LQ is taking notes as he continues to interview.

                                                           34.

                         LQ
                  (writing)
             Why are you here? You seem like a
             bright and intelligent young girl.

                         BLACK GIRL
             I was until me and my mama moved
             down here to Houston, Texas.....I
             used to be a straight "A" student
             spoke Spanish real good.

                         LQ
             Spanish....uh, I don't
             understand....

                         BLACK GIRL
             You see, in California, I was in
             the mix with mostly Hispanics
             everyday. So they taught me how
             to speak their language.

                         LQ
                  (takes notes)
             I see.

                         BLACK GIRL
             I was a good girl until I started
             having fights in school every day.
             It was said to survive, I had to
             fight. I changed schools five
             times before I started carjacking.

                         LQ
                  (surprise)
             Carjacking!

                         BLACK GIRL
                  (smiling)
             Hanging out with the wrong folks
             caused me to do that. It was a
             game to me.

BLACK GIRL acts like she is holding a gun.

                         BLACK GIRL
                  (continues)
             It was nothing for me to hold a
             gun to someone's head, cock it
             and take their car.

LQ shakes his head.

                                                           35.

                         LQ
             Dang! Are you serious? And just
             eleven years old?....You were
             that bad?.....You didn't value
             another person's life?

                         BLACK GIRL
                  (smiles)
             It was a game to me..I got off on
             seeing the scare in their eyes
             until we played the game too long
             and I lost a good friend....

BLACK GIRL downs her head.

                         BLACK GIRL
                  (continues)
             We carjacked the wrong car one
             night and this man was packing.
             We thought we had a push over
             cause he was acting scared and
             everything. When we were laughing
             and ego tripping, he reached for
             his gun and started blasting....I
             got away, but my friend----

LQ sympathizes with the BLACK GIRL.

                         LQ
             You don't have to talk about
             it....I've finished with my
             interview with you anyway.

LQ extends his hand to her. The BLACK GIRL hesitates for a
moment and shakes his hand.

                         LQ
                  (continues)
             Thank you......

                                            CUT TO

TWO TABLES DOWN

JONVET is interviewing a thirteen year old HISPANIC MALE two
tables down. He can't keep still. He is very energetic.

                         JONVET
                  (curious)
             But Ram!  Why did you do that?
             Don't you know crime doesn't pay?

                                                           36.

                         HISPANIC MALE
             You don't know nothing little
             book worm. I was king of the hill
             in my space.

                         JONVET
                  (take notes)
             And now you're locked up.....

                         HISPANIC MALE
             This is nothing!  I'll be outta
             here soon----and might just drop
             by to see you.....I like your
             body....

Another COUNSELOR over hears the conversation. He puts his
magazine down and stares at the HISPANIC MALE.

                         COUNSELOR
             Cut it out, Ramero! Show some
             respect up in here or stand
             against the wall!

RAMERO frowns up and gets defensive.

                         HISPANIC MALE
                  (yells)
             I didn't do nothing!

JONVET looks at the COUNSELOR.

                         JONVET
             I can handle it, Counselor. Calm
             down, Ram....Tell me, what is it
             that made you a thief?

                         HISPANIC MALE
                  (defends)
             A thief! That's small talk. To me
             it is a profession.

                         JONVET
             A profession?....I don't understand.

HISPANIC MALE smiles as he begins to answer the question. He
look at his hands. He raise them up to JONVET.

                         HISPANIC MALE
             You see these hands?  They are
             lightning fast. I can break into
             houses, cars and anything that is
             locked down. I got skills, baby.

                                                           37.

                         JONVET
                  (take notes)
             Skills?

HISPANIC MALE sits back in his chair like he is proud.

                         HISPANIC MALE
             I break into folks' house when
             they are away, on vacation or at
             work. I even know how to by pass
             alarm systems. You see, I don't
             take from the poor....I go for
             the big fish, like classy folks.
             I get off on taking everything of
             value in their houses as long as
             I can carry it out. It's like
             going shopping to me.

                         JONVET
                  (takes notes)
             You mean, you get off on stealing
             folks blind.

                         HISPANIC MALE
             You're smart, baby.....That's why
             they call me Ram. These fingers
             do a lot of ram shacking, baby.

HISPANIC MALE looks at his fingers as JONVET quickly take
notes.

                                            CUT TO

ONE TABLE OVER

PAMBELA, a white student is interviewing a YOUNG THIRTEEN
YEAR OLD BLACK MALE. He is laughing out loud. COUNSELOR at
the end of the table put his pencil down. He stands up at
the table.

                         COUNSELOR
                  (yells)
             J-Mack! Stand up against the wall!

                         PAMBELA
                  (sympathizes)
             Please....He'll be okay....Give
             him another chance.

BLACK MALE stops laughing. He starts tapping his pencil on
the table.

                                                           38.

                         COUNSELOR
                  (sits down)
             This young lady just saved your
             butt---and stop doing that!

BLACK MALE stops beating on the table.

                         PAMBELA
             Now why are you here, J-Mack?

                         COUNSELOR
             Why? You gonna write a story on
             me. I'm gonna be famous, huh?

                         PAMBELA
             I don't think so.....I'm doing
             this out of curiosity. You are so
             young.

BLACK MALE laughs a little as the COUNSELOR peeps from under
the magazine. BLACK MALE stops laughing.

                         BLACK MALE
             You see. I didn't do nothing.
             They're always picking on black
             people. You know what I'm saying?
             I'm innocent.

PAMBELA looks surprise.

                         PAMBELA
             Other words, you were falsely
             accused...What happened?

                         BLACK MALE
                  (whispers)
             I was packing.....

                         PAMBELA
                  (taking notes)
             Packing what?

BLACK MALE leans over the table. He whispers.

                         BLACK MALE
             You know. Packing like I'm doing
             right now.

BLACK MALE starts laughing. PAMBELA is concern for a moment.
BLACK MALE puts his hand in his shirt pocket and pulls it out.

                         BLACK MALE
                  (continues)
             Bang! Bang!

                                                           39.

PAMBELA jumps back as BLACK MALE plays like he is shooting a
gun.

                         COUNSELOR
                  (puts magazine down)
             That's it!

                         PAMBELA
             No! Counselor!....Please let me
             finish. I'm okay.

The COUNSELOR sits back down and starts reading the magazine.
BLACK MALE is laughing.

                         PAMBELA
                  (continues)
             You mean....you kill somebody?

BLACK MALE laughs.

                         BLACK MALE
             No. I was packing a gun at a
             party, Fool! There was a police
             raid. The neighbors called them.

                         PAMBELA
             Why were you carrying a gun?

                         BLACK MALE
                  (laughs)
             At this party, there were a bunch
             of Haters who didn't like me. The
             gun was my protection. When the
             police came....They searched us
             down. They arrested me for
             possession.

                         PAMBELA
             So. You wasn't falsely accused.
             The gun got you in trouble.....

                         BLACK MALE
             You can say that. But I'm alive
             because I packed. You know what
             I'm saying?....Listen. You are a
             little wet behind the ears. Have
             you ever seen people run when
             someone say, 'duck, he's got a
             gun? Everybody haul ass. The gun
             is my protection from all the bad
             asses. I'm not going to let them
             do to me what they did to my father.

                                                           40.

                         PAMBELA
                  (taking notes)
             When you get out, will you still
             carry a gun?

BLACK MALE laughs and shakes his head.

                         BLACK MALE
             What do you think? I just won't
             get caught this time. Where I
             live, it's life, to kill or be kill.

PAMBELA buries her head to the notepad as she continues to
write.

                                            CUT TO

NEXT TABLE

SHAWN, A BLACK STUDENT is interviewing a HISPANIC GIRL at
the next table. SHAWN is writing as the HISPANIC GIRL
watches. SHAWN looks up as she stops writing.

                         SHAWN
                  (taking notes)
             You say you joined a gang because
             of what?....Uh...

                         HISPANIC GIRL
             Why don't you just call me, Girly.

                         SHAWN
                  (smiles)
             Nickname, huh....I completely
             forgot the rules. Can I ask you a
             question?

                         HISPANIC GIRL
             No problem....I'm not going
             anywhere.

HISPANIC GIRL pulls her hair back and leans her head to one
side. SHAWN clears her throat.

                         SHAWN
                  (curious)
             You come from a decent family and
             your parents are hard working
             folks. What drove you to get
             involve with a gang?

                                                           41.

                         HISPANIC GIRL
             Attention, loneliness and they
             were like family to me. My
             parents worked all the time. I
             hardly saw them.

                         SHAWN
             But what that got to do with you
             stabbing a girl in the back?.....

                         HISPANIC GIRL
             She was messing around with my
             man. She had it coming. She was a
             bully, so I had to take her out.
             And I'm not sorry.

                         SHAWN
                  (shakes her head)
             But you are lucky she didn't die....

                         HISPANIC GIRL
             Yeah...But she will never walk
             again to mess with me.

                         SHAWN
                  (taking notes)
             If you ever get out....Are you
             going to change your life style?

HISPANIC GIRL looks away from the face of SHAWN. She pauses
for a moment before answering the question.

                         HISPANIC GIRL
             Maybe....But I will always be a
             part of my family.....

                         SHAWN
             You mean, your parents.....

                         HISPANIC GIRL
                  (angry)
             No! The gang!

COUNSELOR at the other end of the table.

                         COUNSELOR
             Girly! Quiet it down over there!

                                            CUT TO:

TOM, A WHITE MALE STUDENT is interviewing a fifteen year old
WHITE FEMALE JUVENILE. The WHITE STUDENT pulls out a small
tape recorder. He lays it on the table.....

                                                           42.

                         TOM
                  (turn it on)
             Do you mind?......

THE WHITE FEMALE gets an attitude.

                         WHITE FEMALE
                  (pauses)
             Man! I don't like tape recorders.
             How I know you ain't gonna give
             this  information to the wrong
             people. No tape recorder!

TOM quickly turns off the recorder and puts it back in his
pocket.

                         TOM
             Okay....Okay...I'm sorry.....I'm
             just trying to get a story for my
             class. I'm not the law.

TOM takes out a small pad and pencil from his notebook.

                         WHITE FEMALE
             Right now....I don't trust anyone.
             Not even my mother.

                         TOM
                  (taking notes)
             I understand....But why are you
             in here?

                         WHITE FEMALE
                  (settles down)
             I was fed up with being called
             Little White Rich Girl.

                         TOM
                  (taking notes)
             Peer pressure, huh?

WHITE FEMALE downs her head.

                         WHITE FEMALE
             I started hanging out with the
             ones that wasn't so fortunate
             than me. I needed some excitement
             in my life. They were into
             everything just for kicks. You
             know what I'm saying?

                                                           43.

                         TOM
             But they were a bad influence on
             you. They were into the wrong
             things.

                         WHITE FEMALE
             You know what?

                         TOM
             What?

                         WHITE FEMALE
             You sound just like my parents.
             You don't know nothing about the
             real world out there because your
             head are buried in your little
             clean society.

TOM continues to take notes.

                         TOM
             But the real world got you in big
             trouble. You're locked up. What
             happened that you did so bad to
             be in here? And this is off the
             records.

                         WHITE FEMALE
             Like I said. I needed some
             excitement in my life and a
             little attention. So me and my
             friends jumped in my car to have
             some fun. We decided to do some
             shop lifting at the Mall. We
             thought we had gotten away with
             it. We were laughing and
             celebrating our little adventure
             into the world of thieves.
             Another friend pulled out a bag
             of weed and we started getting
             hire. Suddenly these cops pull up
             behind us, telling us to pull
             over. I was completely lost. I
             got caught holding the bag of
             weed plus somebody saw my license
             plate number after we did the
             shop lifting. My friends told the
             police that the weed was mine.
             They got off easy. Me, here I am.

                         TOM
             So, the little rich white girl
             got caught holding the bag, huh?

                                                           44.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

INT. SCHOOL BUS-EVENING

                                            CUT TO

PJ and LQ are riding back to school on the school bus.
Everyone else is kind of quiet from the impact of the
interviews with the JUVENILES in detention. LQ looks at PJ.
PJ is staring out the window.

                         LQ
                  (curious)
             Hey, man....Are you okay? That
             was a hell of an experience back
             there.

PJ just stares out the window without responding.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

INT. LQ'S HOUSE-BIRTHDAY PARTY-NEXT WEEK-NIGHT

All the STUDENTS from the CRIMINOLOGY CLASS are here. They
are laughing and dancing. Some are talking about their
experiences at the JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER.

                                            CUT TO

A GROUP of STUDENTS discussing their interviews.

                         ONE GIRL
                  (anxious)
             I couldn't believe some of the
             things I heard from them. It
             makes you think about staying on
             the good side of the law.

                         ONE BOY
             And some had the mind of an adult.
             You know what I'm saying?

                                            CUT TO

LQ is walking around greeting everyone. ONE STUDENT pins
some more money on his shirt as he passes by.

                                                           45.

                         LQ
                  (smiles)
             Thank you......

LQ;S GIRLFRIEND, DASHAE taps him on the shoulder. He turns
and looks right in her face. DASHAE gives him a big kiss
right in front of all his classmates. THE CLASSMATES clap
their hands as they continues to kiss.They finally part and
smiles at each other.

                         LQ
             Hey...That was powerful, girl.

                         DASHAE
                  (smiles as she pins
                  money on him)
             Only for you, baby.....Now can I
             have this dance?......

                         LQ
                  (downs his head bashfully)
             Sure......

LQ and DASHAE begins to dance. EVERYBODY steps back to let
them have the floor. They are cheering them on.

                                            CUT TO

EXT. PATIO

PJ is standing out on the patio alone. He is staring into
the dark night.

                                            CUT TO

INT. PATIO DOOR

PJ'S GIRLFRIEND, KIARA is opening the door. She steps
outside on the patio quietly as PJ stares out. She taps him
on the shoulder. He looks around.

                         KIARA
                  (smiles)
             Need some company?

                         PJ
                  (pauses)
             Only if we make peace.....

KIARA gets closer to PJ.

                         KIARA
                  (puts arm around his neck)
             It's done.....No problem....

                                                           46.

KIARA and PJ kisses under the full moon.

                                            CUT TO

INT. HOUSE-KITCHEN DOOR OPENING

LQ'S MOTHER is bringing out the birthday cake. She comes out
singing HAPPY BIRTHDAY to LQ.

                         MOTHER
                  (singing)
             "Happy birthday to you, happy
             birthday to you."

EVERYBODY joins in as she lays the eighteen candle cake on
the table.

                         EVERYBODY
                  (sings)
             "Happy birthday to LQ.....Happy
             birthday to Yooou! How old are
             yooou?"

LQ holds up five fingers. EVERYBODY laughs.

                         MOTHER
                  (urges)
             Come on son. Blow out the candles
             and make your wish.

LQ bends over the cake, takes a big breath and blow out all
the candles. EVERYBODY claps.

                                            CUT TO

KITCHEN DOOR

LQ'S FATHER storms out the kitchen with two gallons of ice
cream in his hands.

                         FATHER
             Can't have a cake without good
             old fashion ice cream!

EVERYBODY cheers for the FATHER as he does a little shuffle
step to the table and put the two gallons of ice cream on
the table

                         FATHER
                  (continues)
             Let's dig in folks!

EVERYBODY goes to the table as the MOTHER and FATHER serves
the ice cream.

                                                           47.

                         FATHER
                  (smiles as he dips)
             All these Criminology folks....A
             sight for sore eyes to know that
             some of ya'll want to be on the
             side of the law.

They all laugh.

                                            CUT TO

PJ and KIARA standing close by each other. KIARA is talking
to friends. PJ taps KIARA on the shoulder.

                         PJ
             Come on....I wanna show you
             something.

PJ grabs KIARA'S hand and leads her outside toward the patio
door.

                         KIARA
             This better be good, PJ. You have
             never surprised me.....

                                            CUT TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

EVERYBODY starts to dance to the music.

                                            CUT TO

INT. 2005 BLACK SPORTS JAGUAR

KIARA and PJ are kissing in the front seat of the JAGUAR.

                         KIARA
                  (pulls back)
             Take it easy, baby. You're little
             rough. Be gentle like this.

KIARA kisses him gently as they lean down on the seat. PJ
starts unbuttoning her blouse.

                         KIARA
                  (jumps up)
             Not here, PJ. That's not class,
             baby.

PJ leans back in the seat of the car. He smiles.

                                                           48.

                         PJ
                  (shakes his head)
             Tell me. What is class? You
             didn't say that when I was
             driving my daddy's old car.

KIARA buttons her blouse.

                         KIARA
             Check it out, PJ. Your daddy
             really did it this time......

KIARA rub her hands across the dash board and black leather
seats.

                         PJ
                  (leans back proudly)
             Yeah....It's a beauty.

KIARA leans her seat back. She smiles.

                         KIARA
                  (closes her eyes)
             A Jaguar.....Man, I can hardly
             wait until my turn come....I'm
             gonna live.

KIARA pauses and open her eyes.

                         PJ
                  (kisses her on the neck)
             Yeah! I won't even know you after
             you get that medical degree, girl.

KIARA sits straight up.

                         KIARA
                  (excited)
             Can I drive it around the block,
             PJ. I promise I will be careful.

                         PJ
             My daddy will kill me.

                         KIARA
                  (pleas)
             Please, PJ.

PJ pauses and he smiles as if he's up to something.

                         PJ
                  (leans back proudly)
             You wanna drive my daddy's car, huh?

                                                           49.

                         KIARA
             I would love to.

PJ downs his head.

                         PJ
             Okay......

KIARA reaches for the door handle to go around to the
driver's seat but PJ stops her.

                         PJ
                  (continues)
             On one condition......

                         KIARA
                  (takes hand off handle)
             And what's that?

PJ hold up some keys and dangle it around.

                         KIARA
                  (continues)
             And those are keys to what, PJ?

                         PJ
                  (smiles)
             To my family's beach house.

KIARA leans back and pause.

                         KIARA
                  (smiles)
             Are you trying to bribe me, PJ?

                         PJ
                  (leans over to kiss her)
             Something like that....

KIARA laughs a little.

                         KIARA
             You know you don't have to do
             that. It's mutual. I would have
             accepted anyway.....

PJ cell phone rings. He takes it from his coat pocket and
answers.

                         PJ
                  (answers)
             Yeah......Everything is going
             nice......Yeah......I
             understand.....I won't..... Okay?

                                                           50.

PJ puts the cell phone back in his coat pocket.

                         PJ
             My dad worries too much.

                                            CUT TO

EXT.  PATIO DOOR-LQ'S HOUSE

LQ and DASHAE decides to take a walk. They stop and kiss
each other.

                                            CUT TO

INT. JAGUAR

PJ see them. He starts up the JAGUAR in a hurry fearing that
LQ will ask too many questions about the JAGUAR.

                         KIARA
                  (curious)
             We are leaving now? The party is
             still going on PJ.

PJ speeds off.

                         PJ
             I gotta a better idea. What about
             you driving this baby all the way
             to the beach house.

                         KIARA
                  (smiles)
             No problem...There will always be
             parties. But I may never get a
             chance to drive a pretty thing
             like this as a teenager.....

                                            CUT TO

EXT.  LQ'S HOUSE-FRONT

LQ is curious about someone in a hurry.

                         LQ
             Who in the hell was that?

                         DASHAE
             That's your flying high friend, PJ.

                         LQ
             Naw!  PJ doesn't have a Jaguar,
             Dashae.

                                                           51.

                         DASHAE
                  (smiles as she
                  snuggles up to LQ)
             Well....He does now.....

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

INT. THE BEACH HOUSE-NIGHT

KIARA and PJ are making sexual love in bed under the sheets.
The sound of intimate voices echoes.

                                            CUT TO

THE OCEAN

WAVES coming to shore as the SUN RISES.

                                            CUT TO

INT. THE BEACH HOUSE-NEXT MORNING

PJ wakes up. He wipes his eyes as he looks over at KIARA
sleeping like a baby in the bed. He takes a look at his
watch. Then he quickly jumps from the bed.

                         PJ
                  (putting on his clothes)
             Shit!....Kiara! Get up!

KIARA raises up with a sleepy drowsy look on her face. She
wipes her face with her hand.

                         KIARA
             What time is it?

                         PJ
                  (buttoning his shirt)
             You don't wanna know. We just
             better get our lies together.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

                                                           52.

EXT. COLLISION OUTLET GARAGE FRONT DOOR-EARLY MORNING

PJ is blowing his horn. The door raises as PJ speeds the
JAGUAR into the garage.

                                            CUT TO

INT. COLLISION OUTLET

JIMMY is standing looking angry. He is standing at the
JAGUAR DOOR waiting for PJ explanation. PJ jumps out the
JAGUAR.

                         PJ
                  (explaining)
             Sorry, Jimmy....I over slept, man.

JIMMY shakes his head. He points his finger in PJ'S chest.

                         JIMMY
                  (explains)
             Man! I took a chance on letting
             you use this vehicle....

                         JIMMY
                  (continues)
             You gotta quit acting like a high
             school boy, PJ. This is big bucks
             you playing with here.....You
             understand, PJ?....

JIMMY points his finger right at PJ'S nose. PJ backs away.

                         PJ
                  (head down)
             Like I said, I'm sorry man...My
             bad....I'll make it up to you.
             What do you need?.....

JIMMY pause and takes a long look at PJ.

                         JIMMY
                  (curious)
             PJ....Why do you do this? You
             don't have to do this....Your
             father is practically rich.....

                         PJ
             That's my father's money, not
             mind. Anyway being a thief is
             kind of fun.

JIMMY pauses. He shakes his head.

                                                           53.

                         JIMMY
             You know the rules....If you ever
             get caught...You on your own, I
             can't help you.....

                         PJ
                  (impatient)
             Come on Jimmy! What do you need,
             man?

JIMMY pauses.

                         JIMMY
             Okay....I got a hot buyer. But
             you gotta deliver tomorrow night.
             Can you do that?......

                         PJ
             Yeah! You taught me well, Jimmy.....

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

INT. MEMORIAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE HIGH SCHOOL-LOCKERS-HALLWAY-
HOUSTON-MORNING

LQ and PJ are talking with each other. LQ is asking him
about the Jaguar.

                         PJ
                  (laughs)
             A Jaguar! Dashae must be cross-
             eyed or something. I was driving
             my old car last night. Me and
             Kiara went to my dad's beach
             house. Anyway, why are you into
             my business, LQ?

LQ slams his locker.

                         LQ
             Because you done changed on me,
             man. Ever since we did that......

LQ looks around.

                         LQ
                  (continues)
             experiment. I don't ever see you
             anymore, man. I hope you are
             not----

                                                           54.

PJ hits his locker with the front of his hand. He points his
finger at LQ.

                         PJ
             Stay out of my business, LQ!

PJ leaves LQ standing by the lockers with his head down.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

INT. PJ'S HOUSE-BEDROOM WINDOW-2:00AM

PJ is climbing out his bedroom window. He is wearing all
black with black gloves. He steps out on the ground and
quietly closes the window. He disappears down the street in
the dark.

                                            CUT TO

EXT. STREETS-2:15AM

PJ is waiting on the street corner.

                                            CUT TO

A JAGUAR pulls up to the corner with bright lights. PJ jumps
in and the JAGUAR speeds off.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

EXT. COLLISION OUTLET GARAGE FRONT DOOR-EARLY MORNING

PJ drives a BURGUNDY MERCEDES up to the Collision Outlet
door. He blows the horn at the COLLISION GARAGE front door.
The door raises and PJ speeds in.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

                                                           55.

EXT. MEMORIAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE HIGH SCHOOL-LAWN GRADUATION
CELEBRATION

PARENTS, FRIENDS are jubilant on the LAWN of the school.
They are hugging and kissing.

                                            CUT TO

LQ and PJ takes time out to notice each other. Their faces
meet one another. Then PJ turns away while laughing with
other friends. LQ downs his head. LQ'S FATHER and Mother tap
him on the shoulders. LQ turns with a smirk on his face.

                         MOTHER
                  (compliments)
             Son. We are so proud of
             you.....Your choice of going to a
             Criminology High School wasn't an
             easy task.

                         FATHER
                  (proud)
             I think we gonna have another
             lawyer in the family.....

LQ'S FATHER grabs him around the shoulder.

                         FATHER
                  (continues)
             Come on. It's time to celebrate!

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

INT. COLLISION OUTLET OFFICE-EVENING-TWO MONTHS LATER

JIMMY is sitting at his desk. PJ is sitting in a chair near
the desk. JIMMY looks in his desk draw and pulls out a bank
book. He hands it to PJ.

                         JIMMY
             You've done good, PJ. All your
             earnings are right there. You
             have a good saving account. Don't
             spend it all up there in college.

PJ opens the bank book. He takes a look at the balance.

                                                           56.

                         PJ
                  (smiles)
             Thanks man! I won't. As a matter
             of fact, I won't even touch it
             until I get out of college......I
             got some plans about my own
             business, Jimmy.

                         JIMMY
             Remember. In the summer, you can
             pick up where you left off. You
             are good, PJ. Better than I was.
             How is it gonna feel playing on
             both sides of the law?

PJ and JIMMY laugh as they slap hands.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

EXT. CITY PARK BENCH-EVENING

LQ is sitting on the park bench. FOLKS are passing by. PJ
walks up.

                         PJ
             You wanna see me about something,
             LQ?

                         LQ
             What's up, PJ. We used to be the
             best of friends. You know what
             I'm saying?

PJ sits down and looks into space. He does a cocky laugh.

                         PJ
                  (serious)
             Folks in America do have a right
             to change, LQ. You just haven't.

LQ downs his head.

                         LQ
             I know what you're doing, PJ.

PJ looks angrily at LQ.

                         PJ
             What?! You don't know nothing!

                                                           57.

                         LQ
             You carjacking man, Big Time!
             That's how you get your kicks.
             Your father doesn't own a Jaguar,
             PJ.

PJ gets very angry.

                         PJ
             You been spying on me behind my
             back, huh?... .You know your
             problem, LQ?....You worry about
             me more than my mother and father.
             Get a life, man! I'm outta here!
             Enjoy college.

PJ turns and leaves. LQ yells back at him.

                         LQ
                  (yells)
             Crime is gonna catch up with you,
             PJ. You're come out a loser in
             the end.....

PJ yells back at LQ as he keeps walking.

                         PJ
             It'll be my problem, LQ! Not yours!

PJ disappears leaving LQ wondering and shaking his head as
he gets up from the bench and walks away.

FADE TO

MUSIC: CONTEMPORARY JAZZ

                                            CUT TO

EXT. TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW-LAWN GRADUATION
CELEBRATION-EIGHT YEARS LATER-MORNING

LQ'S FRIENDS, RELATIVES and PARENTS are congratulating him
on getting his Law Degree.

                         LQ
                  (happy)
             Man! I can't believe it Dad! I
             feel like I'm on top of the world!
             Whew! I hope I be as good a
             Lawyer as you are, Dad.....

                                                           58.

                         MOTHER
             You will, LQ--and I knew you were
             going to hang in there. That's my
             boy!

                         FATHER
                  (smiles)
             And I pray that you be better
             than I. Anyway, changing the
             subject. LQ. It's payback time, son.

LQ acts as if he doesn't know what his FATHER is referring
to as he smiles.

                         LQ
             What do you mean?

FATHER laughs.

                         FATHER
             Pay me back some of that money I
             spent on you all these years.

EVERYBODY laughs. DASHAE walks up to LQ and gives him a big
hug.

                         DASHAE
                  (smiles)
             You did it, LQ. I'm so proud of you.

                         LQ
                  (smiles)
             Thanks for your support Dashae
             and all the late nights studying
             with me.

                         FATHER
                  (teases)
             Dashae....You've been like a part
             of this family for many years. I
             wanna say, 'thank you' for
             supporting our son.

                         MOTHER
             And I second those statements,
             Dashae.

                         DASHAE
             Thanks....I'm just so happy for LQ.

                         LQ
             You mean, happy for us.....

Everybody is speechless as they look at each other.

                                                           59.

                         LQ
                  (smiles as he holds
                  Dashae hands)
             Dashae....I have something to ask
             you.

DASHAE looks surprise at LQ. MOTHER and FATHER kind of smile
at each other.

                         FATHER
                  (suggests)
             Mother. I suggest we leave these
             love birds alone.

Right before the FATHER and MOTHER turn to go.

                         LQ
             Wait! Mom and Dad, I want you all
             to here this.......

                         FATHER
                  (jokes)
             Is it that important?

                         MOTHER
                  (hunches him)
             D....Quit!

LQ turns to DASHAE and holds her hands real tight. DASHAE is
trying to brace herself for the surprise. LQ drops to his
knees. The MOTHER takes out her handkerchief and wipes her
teary eyes. The FATHER is waiting and anticipating what is
going to happen. LQ looks up to DASHAE. Other folks and
classmates see what is happening and they rush over to the
scene. LQ clears his throat.

                         LQ
             Dashae Peterson.....Will you
             marry me?

The CROWD is very quiet as they wait for DASHAE'S
answer.DASHAE wipes her teary eyes.

                         DASHAE
             I will LQ Henderson....I will!

                         THE CROWD
             Yes! Yes!

The CROWD disperse, leaving the FAMILY standing there
congratulating DASHAE and LQ.

                                                           60.

                         MOTHER
             Dashae. My son couldn't have made
             a better choice. I love you.

MOTHER hugs DASHAE.

                         FATHER
                  (teases)
             Now we gonna have a teacher and a
             Lawyer in the family.....That's
             call, 'killing two birds with one
             stone.'

Everybody laughs.

FADE TO

MUSIC: WEDDING MARCH

                                            CUT TO

INT. SLOAN METHODIST CHURCH-ONE MONTH LATER-MID-MORNING

DASHAE and LQ is standing at the alter. The MINSTER closes
his bible.

                         MINISTER
                  (smiles)
             LQ Henderson and Dashae Peterson,
             I now pronounce you, man and wife.
             You may if so desire, kiss the
             bride.

DASHAE and LQ kiss each other.

                                            CUT TO

MUSIC: WEDDING MARCH

                                            CUT TO

EXT. SLOAN METHODIST FRONT DOOR STEPS.

LQ and DASHAE are walking down the steps toward the waiting
white Limo. GUEST are throwing white rice on them. Just
before DASHAE gets in the Limo, she turns and throws the
bouquet of flowers to the guest.

                                            CUT TO

KIARA is standing right there to catch them. KIARA looks at
the bouquet of flowers and sadly downs her head. She walks
away.

                                                           61.

FADE TO

MUSIC: SOFT CONTEMPORARY JAZZ

                                            CUT TO

INT. LAW OFFICE OF LQ HENDERSON-RECEPTION DESK -ONE YEAR
LATER-MORNING

A BLACK YOUNG RECEPTIONIST is sitting behind her desk. The
phone rings. She answers while looking through the
appointment book for LQ.

                         BLACK RECEPTIONIST
                  (on the phone)
             Law Office of LQ
             Henderson......Oh, yes, Mr.
             Johnson........

BLACK RECEPTIONIST turn pages to the appointment book.

                         BLACK RECEPTIONIST
             Uh, Mr. Johnson....Your
             appointment is schedule for
             Thursday at 11:00am.....That will
             be fine, Mr. Johnson....Yes. We
             will see you then.....Have a nice
             day.

BLACK RECEPTIONIST hangs up the phone.

                                            CUT TO

INT. LQ'S OFFICE

LQ is on the phone. He is sitting at his desk. As he talks,
he is examining some court papers.

                         LQ
                  (rears back in his chair)
             Mrs. Franks.....Don't worry. I'm
             going to have your grandson out
             of Juvenile Detention by
             tomorrow......I know. I'm trying
             to cut the the charge to a
             misdemeanor.......I agree. Your
             daughter should be a better
             mother....Mrs. Franks.......
             Relax!.....No.....I will send you
             a bill later for my
             services......I know you
             do........Okay?  Ricky will be
             home tomorrow......Thank
             you........It's my pleasure......

                                                           62.

LQ hangs the phone up. He continues to go through his court
papers. The phone rings. He picks the phone up.

                         LQ
             Yes, Leslie......Who?......

LQ stands up at his desk.

                         LQ
             Really!.....By all means. Send
             him in.

LQ hangs the phone up slowly. PJ walks in the office. LQ
steps from behind his desk. PJ has on a sporty like suit.

                         PJ
                  (smiles as he looks around)
             Very nice, LQ. Very nice.....

                         LQ
             PJ.....What a surprise....Have a
             seat.....It's been over eight
             years since we've seen each other.

PJ sits down.

                         PJ
             Yes, it has LQ. But I've been
             hearing good things about you. I
             just had to stop buy to see and
             maybe talk some business.

LQ sits on the side of his desk.

                         LQ
                  (curious)
             Didn't you go to-----

                         PJ
                  (interrupts)
             Sam H in Huntsville....Sure did.
             It wasn't my cup of tea, but I
             did it for Dad. I got my degree
             in Criminology. Quite an
             experience......

LQ smiles.

                         LQ
             So you did get your degree....

The phone rings.

                                                           63.

                         LQ
                  (continues)
             Excuse me, PJ.

LQ picks up the the phone.

                         LQ
                  (continues)
             Yes, Leslie......

LQ looks at his watch.

                         LQ
                  (continues)
             Thanks Leslie.....

LQ hangs up. PJ takes a business card from his coat pocket.

                         PJ
             Listen. I gotta go.

LQ stands up behind his desk. PJ hands him a business card.
PJ looks at the card.

                         LQ
             You have your own Dealership?

                         PJ
                  (buttons his coat)
             Come by. I'll fix you up with a
             Mercedes or Jaguar. You're big
             time Lawyer now. You gotta play
             the part.

LQ steps from behind the desk.

                         LQ
             Sure. I'll check you out. Maybe
             we can have lunch.

                         PJ
             Sure....No problem. Just give me
             a call.....

PJ turns toward the door to go.

                         LQ
             PJ......

PJ turns back around.

                         LQ
                  (extends his hand)
             I'm sure glad to see you......

                                                           64.

PJ pauses for a moment. Then shakes LQ hand as they look
into each other eyes. LQ opens the door as PJ walks out.PJ
walks slowly toward his desk, sits down and continues to
look at the business card. He puts it in his desk drawer
while sitting and wondering about PJ.

FADE TO

MUSIC: CONTEMPORARY JAZZ

                                            CUT TO

INT. L&M DEALERSHIP-OFFICE-MORNING

PJ is sitting at his desk talking on the phone.

                         PJ
             Listen Buddy! I gotta have that
             shipment in here, tomorrow. I
             have a back log of folks waiting.
             You understand.....I don't care
             about that!.....What do you think
             I'm paying you
             for......Buddy....Buddy! Find a
             way to get those vehicles off the
             ship......

PJ hangs up the phone.

                                            CUT TO

INT. L&M DEALERSHIP SHOWCASE WINDOW FRONT DOOR

KIARA walks in the front door of the SHOWCASE WINDOW. She
looks around and sees a black convertible Jaguar on the
floor. She walks toward the JAGUAR, opens the door and sits
down in the front seat. She examines it carefully while
smiling.

                                            CUT TO

L&M OFFICE

PJ is going through some papers on his desk. He looks up and
sees KIARA. He gets up and walk toward his office window.

                         PJ
             It can't be.....

He walks toward his office door.

                                            CUT TO

BLACK CONVERTIBLE JAGUAR

                                                           65.

KIARA is still admiring the JAGUAR. A WHITE SALESMAN
approaches her as she sits in the vehicle. He walks over and
bends down.....

                         SALESMAN
                  (smiles)
             Special ordered,Mam.....It's a
             beauty, isn't it.....

                         KIARA
                  (rubs her hands along
                  the dash board)
             It sure is.....Tell me----

PJ walks up and taps the WHITE SALESMAN on the shoulder.

                         PJ
             Jay....I'll handle this one.......

The WHITE SALESMAN looks surprise. He turns and walks away.
PJ clears his throat and bends down.

                         PJ
                  (continues)
             Madam. Would you like to go for
             ride to the beach?

KIARA looks around. She pauses for a second with her hands
over her mouth. She gets out the JAGUAR.

                         KIARA
             It can't be the man who deserted
             me years ago after our little
             beach experience.....

KIARA put her hands on her hips. They pause. Looks at each
other, then hug and laugh.

                         PJ
             That was a long time ago. The
             only way I recognized you is when
             you sat in the Jaguar. You always
             did admire the Jaguar....Should I
             call you, Doctor Kiara?.....

                         KIARA
             You don't have to be that formal.
             But if you feel comfortable with
             that. You may......

                         PJ
             You did it, Kiara.....I'm proud
             of you.

                                                           66.

                         PJ
                  (continues)
             You have some time.....

                         KIARA
                  (smiles)
             What do you have in mind?

                         PJ
                  (suggests)
             Come to my office. We can discuss
             this Jaguar.

                         KIARA
             You sure it's going to be about
             the Jaguar, PJ?

They both pause and then laughs.

                                            CUT TO

INT. PJ'S OFFICE

PJ is sitting behind his desk. Kiara is sitting in a chair
across from the desk. She cross her legs.

                         KIARA
                  (curious)
             Tell me. After you graduated from
             college. Where did you disappear
             to? I called your house a million
             times.

                         PJ
                  (smiles)
             I took off to Europe. France,
             Germany and England....Look
             around...I was busy trying attend
             to some business.

                         KIARA
                  (surprise)
             You mean, you didn't become a
             detective running after the bad
             boys. You settle for being a
             salesman.

PJ laughs.

                         PJ
             A salesman! I own this place.....

KIARA smiles as she doubts LQ.

                                                           67.

                         KIARA
             Just like you owned that Jaguar
             that took us to the beach, huh?

PJ laughs and shakes his head.

                         PJ
             Women have the memory of an
             Elephant....Listen that's the
             past. I tell you what....Why
             don't we drive to the beach and
             we can discuss that pretty Jaguar
             out there. I can cut you a real
             good deal, Kiara.

                         KIARA
             I'm married now, PJ.

PJ settles down.

                         PJ
             Well now....That changes things,
             doesn't it?

KIARA smiles.

                         KIARA
             But my divorce will be final
             tomorrow.

                         PJ
                  (touches his heart)
             My heart just went back to normal.

They both laughs.

                         KIARA
             But then let me think about your
             offer. You broke my heart once. I
             don't want it to happen again....

FADE TO

MUSIC: BLUES

                                            CUT TO

EXT. L&M DEALERSHIP  CAR LOT-MIDNIGHT

A BIG TRAILER TRUCK load of MERCEDES and JAGUARS are sitting
on the L&M DEALERSHIP CAR LOT. The TRUCK DRIVER steps out
the truck. PJ'S EXECUTIVE WHITE SALESMAN, JOSH, approaches
the truck with a clipboard in his hands. He checks every
vehicle by counting each one.

                                                           68.

Then he nods for the DRIVER to start unloading. The DRIVER
unlatches the tail gate. He begins driving each individual
vehicle onto the lot.

                                            CUT TO

EXT. L&M DEALERSHIP  CAR LOT

JOSH is signing the invoice for the vehicles. The TRUCK
DRIVER gets in his truck and drives off.

                                            CUT TO

A BLACK JAGUAR pulls up. THREE PEOPLE with mask on jumps out
wearing all black. ONE pulls a gun and points it at JOSH.
JOSH drops the clipboard as he throws up his hands.

                                            CUT TO

JAGUAR

ONE of the THIEVES jumps in a BLACK JAGUAR and starts it up.

                                            CUT TO

The OTHER THIEF jumps in a BLACK MERCEDES and starts it up.

                                            CUT TO

The TWO VEHICLES speeds off the CAR LOT.

                                            CUT TO

The THIRD THIEF turns and run to the THIEVES' JAGUAR and
speeds off. JOSH smiles as he takes his cell phone from his
coat pocket. He dials a number.

FADE TO

MUSIC: BLUES

                                            CUT TO

INT. COLLISION OUTLET GARAGE

JIMMY is talking to STICKY, SANDY and RAM. STICKY is
carrying a gun. Jimmy sees the gun.

                         JIMMY
             Ya'll did good last night. You
             getting there.....I told you, no
             guns, Sticky. We're not in this
             business to hurt any one.

                                                           69.

JIMMY snatches the gun from STICKY'S back pocket. STICKY
doesn't resist. He just downs his head. JIMMY goes into his
desk drawer.

                         JIMMY
                  (continues)
             Here....Welcome to the club.....

JIMMY hand each one some cash.

                         JIMMY
                  (continues)
             Don't talk to anyone about your
             business. Not even your mama. And
             if you ever get caught, I don't
             know you.....I got a few more
             jobs lined up.

JIMMY pulls a map from his back pocket. He turns and lays it
across the table behind him.

                         JIMMY
                  (continues)
             Everybody gather around. This is
             big time.......

FADE TO

MUSIC:CONTEMPORARY JAZZ

                                            CUT TO

INT. L&M DEALERSHIP-OFFICE-LATE EVENING

PJ is pacing the floor of his office. He is talking on his
office phone.

                         PJ
                  (pacing)
             I don't care if you investigate.
             This is several times those
             thieves have caught us with our
             pants down.

                         PJ
                  (continues)
             What?  You will not honor my
             policy anymore?.......What?.....You
             got to be joking, Lance!.......My
             Dealership is at
             risk........Listen to me.
                         (MORE)

                                                           70.

                         PJ (CONT'D)
             I pay a lot of money for your
             insurance and I've been a
             faithful customer and you can't
             afford to carry my business
             anymore?.....Bullshit!........

PJ is angry.

                         PJ
                  (continues)
             No!......You listen!  Talk to my
             Lawyer. I'll see you in court!

PJ slams the phone down. He thinks for a second, then dials
another number.

                         PJ
                  (continues)
             Josh! I need to see you,,,,,,In
             my office.

PJ hangs up the phone. JOSH enters PJ'S office. He comes in
quietly and sits down in a chair near the desk.

                         PJ
                  (paces)
             Listen, Josh. I think there is
             going to be an investigation by
             our insurance company. Make sure
             you have your story straight so
             if they do question us separately,
             we are on the same wave length.

PJ stops pacing and sits down at his desk.

                         PJ
                  (continues)
             If we mess this up. We all could
             be sent up the river.

                         JOSH
                  (smiles)
             I understand your concern and we
             are good at what we do. Aren't we?
             We rarely make any slip ups and
             will not as long as I'm executive
             salesman in charge.....

                         PJ
             And I do pay you good.....So what
             am I tripping about, huh? Let's
             go home, Josh.

                                                           71.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

INT. EXCLUSIVE ITALIAN RESTAURANT-LATE EVENING

PJ and KIARA are sitting eating at a table. They are
laughing and talking among themselves.

                         KIARA
                  (takes a sip of wine)
             Tell me, PJ. You must be a
             magician to get a Dealership with
             such wealthy cars.

PJ smiles as he sips his wine.

                         PJ
             It was a little magic, economics
             and technique. You see I had this
             dream that started when I was in
             high school. I took a liking to
             very expensive cars, especially
             Jaguars and Mercedes. I had a
             good friend who had a little
             money and I was fortunate enough
             to convince him we could make a
             fortunate and be unique.

                         KIARA
                  (smiles)
             Good for you---and thanks for
             giving me that deal on my Jaguar,
             part of my dream.

                         PJ
             Then that calls for a toast.

They raise their glasses and tap them together.

                         PJ
                  (continues)
             Anything for you baby. One day I
             just might marry you.

                         KIARA
                  (blushes)
             Don't I have something to say
             about that?

                                                           72.

                         PJ
                  (takes a sip of wine)
             Sure you do. When the time comes.
             Just say 'yes.'

KIARA smiles and takes a sip of wine.

                                            CUT TO

INT. ENTRANCE OF EXCLUSIVE RESTAURANT

                                            CUT TO

LQ and DASHAE walks in the door. The WAITER escorts them to
their table. LQ pulls the chair out for DASHAE. She smiles
and sits down. LQ sits down and the WAITER stands there to
take their order.

                                            CUT TO

PJ'S TABLE

PJ doesn't notice DASHAE and LQ sitting over in the corner.
He just happens to look around.

                                            CUT TO

DASHAE and LQ is busy talking with each other.

                                            CUT TO

PJ'S TABLE

PJ takes a sip of wine.

                         PJ
             Look whose here.....

KIARA looks around. She sees DASHAE and LQ. She smiles and
waves at them.

                                            CUT TO

LQ'S TABLE

DASHAE and LQ waves back.

                         DASHAE
                  (smiles)
             Kiara seems so happy after all
             she's been through lately.

                                                           73.

                         LQ
             I just hope PJ doesn't disappoint
             her.

DASHAE takes a sip of wine.

                         DASHAE
             And she is one of the best
             Pediatrics in the city.

THE WAITER bring DASHAE and LQ'S order.

FADE TO

MUSIC: CONTEMPORARY JAZZ

                                            CUT TO

EXT. OUTDOORS DELI-NOON

LQ and PJ are talking over a club sandwich and soft drink.
They are sitting outside on the patio of OUTDOORS DELI.

                         LQ
                  (curious)
             What do you want me to do? No one
             has made a move yet. It's just talk.

                         PJ
                  (serious)
             Just say for instance they don't
             pay up and I have to take them to
             court, I want you to represent my
             company.

LQ is biting down on his sandwich. He wipes his mouth with
the napkins, swallows and takes a drink of soda. PJ is
waiting patiently for his response.

                         LQ
             Man. This sandwich is delicious!
             Why're you not eating, PJ? Relax.
             If you haven't done anything
             wrong, you should be in good
             shape. You are leveling with me?

LQ takes another bite of the sandwich.

                         PJ
             I swear on my mother's grave. I
             had nothing to do with my cars
             being stolen.

                                                           74.

                         LQ
                  (wipes his mouth)
             You sure about that? Because we
             are not in high school anymore, PJ.

                         PJ
             I'm sure, LQ. Come on. I stop
             doing that carjacking thing long
             time ago.

                         LQ
             What actually did the insurance
             company teLL you, PJ?

                         PJ
             They told me that they weren't
             going to insure me any longer
             because my Dealership is at risk
             and my company is under
             investigation for insurance fraud.

LQ takes a sip of his soda.

                         LQ
             Did they tell you why?

                         PJ
             I've had seven car theft within
             the past year. But I pay plenty
             money for my insurance. I don't
             know why the car thieves are
             stealing me blind.

                         LQ
             That is ground for termination PJ.

                         PJ
             It doesn't state anywhere in my
             policy about protection limitation
             on the insurance.

                         LQ
             Why do you think they are doing
             this to you?

PJ smiles with an attitude.

                         PJ
             Don't you know. Come on, LQ. The
             same old cliche. A prosperous
             black man with his own dealership.
             Do I have to say more?

                                                           75.

                         LQ
             Okay. If this is on the level,
             I'll represent you. But if there
             are flaws or something you are
             not telling me, I'm going to bail
             out, PJ. Now you want to sue the
             insurance company for not
             upholding their end of the
             bargain to pay off the two cars
             that were stolen. They said 'no'
             and are terminating your policy.

                         PJ
             That's exactly right.

                         LQ
             Let them make their first move
             toward investigation. If they
             don't find a reasonable cause and
             still won't pay, we take the next
             step. Just maybe we can settle
             this thing out of court. Now let
             me ask you this. Do you trust
             your right hand man? Is he the
             one that knows everything about
             your business? You sure you not
             being set up?

                         PJ
             By who?...And I trust Josh. He
             has been with me since I started
             my business.

                         LQ
             We got to cover all grounds
             because it's not going to be easy
             if we go to court. Insurance
             companies have been playing these
             games for a long time.

LQ looks at his watch.

                         LQ
                  (continues)
             Listen. I got a meeting to attend.
             Keep me inform when they make the
             first move. Don't talk to anyone
             unless I'm present. Okay? And I
             want to see a copy of your
             insurance policy.

LQ stands up and button his coat.

                                                           76.

                         LQ
             And relax. If you haven't done
             anything illegal, there is
             nothing to worry about. I see you
             later, PJ.

PJ is grateful

                         PJ
             Thanks LQ.

FADE TO

MUSIC: CONTEMPORARY JAZZ

                                            CUT TO

INT. COLLISION OUTLET OFFICE-MIDNIGHT

JIMMY and PJ are talking with each other. PJ is pacing.
JIMMY is sitting behind his desk.

                         JIMMY
                  (slams papers on the desk)
             Dammit! PJ I didn't like the idea
             in the first place. But you were
             sold on it would be a piece of
             cake, ripping your own cars off,
             sell them on the black market and
             collect the insurance money. Now
             you coming to me about insurance
             fraud and suing. Don't mix me up
             in this, PJ.

PJ stops pacing.

                         PJ
             What?! You didn't say that when
             you raked in the money!

                         JIMMY
             This is a different ball game
             now, PJ. You know the rule. If
             you get caught, I can't help you.
             It's been like that ever since
             you were in high school. Nothing
             has change.

                         PJ
             What do you mean, Jimmy?

                                                           77.

                         JIMMY
             Maybe it will be the best of our
             interest for you not to come
             around here anymore. At least
             until this thing blows over.

                         PJ
                  (flips a chair over)
             It's like that, huh white boy!

                         JIMMY
             PJ. Chill! It's nothing personal.
             But we talking about Feds
             breathing down our back. I'm
             protecting my own ass here from
             your screw up.

PJ is raging mad. He freezes. He can't believe JIMMY is
turning his back. He buttons his coat.

                         PJ
             Yeah! All the years I've brought
             you the gold---and this is what I
             get. Dam you, Jimmy!

PJ rushes out the office and slams the door. JIMMY sits for
a moment tapping his pencil on his desk.

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

INT. PJ'S HOUSE-LIVING ROOM-LATE EVENING

PJ is sitting on the couch going through some papers. His
DAD is in a wheel chair near the couch. The TELEVISION is on.
The DAD sits quietly watching the TELEVISION. He tries to
change the channel, but the remote control falls from his
trembling hand. PJ picks up the remote control.

                         PJ
             Let me do it Dad......What do you
             wanna watch, Dad?

The DAD slowly responds with a soft voice.

                         DAD
             I wanna watch, "I love Lucy."

PJ is flipping channel after channel.

                                                           78.

                         PJ
             I love Lucy doesn't come on
             anymore. That was long time ago,
             Dad.

                         DAD
             Not long. I saw "I Love Lucy"
             yesterday.

                         PJ
             Okay dad, if you say so.

PJ stops flipping channels.

                         PJ
                  (continues)
             You like Detective stories, I
             remember.....

                         DAD
                  (smiles)
             My son is a Detective. He
             graduated from that big
             Criminology college up in the
             country there. I forgot the name.
             He chases the bad guys.

                         PJ
             Dad....I'm your son and I own a
             car dealership. Don't you remember?

PJ looks at his DAD and downs his head. He feels so helpless.

                         DAD
             A car dealership? That's the
             first I ever heard of
             that....Shhhhh! I heard your
             mother calling up stairs. She's
             not feeling too good today. I
             better go see about her.....

PJ turns away with frustration in his eyes.

                         PJ
             Dad....Mama is-------come on Dad,
             let me tuck you in. Okay?

PJ gets ready to wheel his DAD to the bedroom.

                         DAD
                  (looks up at PJ)
             But I got to get ready to go to
             the office.
                         (MORE)

                                                           79.

                         DAD (CONT'D)
             My patients are waiting. I have
             to work on Ms. Hornsby
             dentures.....I got to see about
             your mama. She needs me, PJ.

PJ wheels his DAD toward the bedroom.

                                            CUT TO

BEDROOM

                         PJ
                  (pushes wheel chair
                  near bed)
             Don't worry, Dad. You will work
             on Ms. Hornsby's dentures
             tomorrow and I will run up stairs
             to see about Mama.

FADE TO

MUSIC: CONTEMPORARY JAZZ

                                            CUT TO

INT. EXCLUSIVE ITALIAN CUISINE-NIGHT

KIARA and PJ are chatting at a table. The WAITER is filling
each glass up with wine. They nod as the WAITER smiles
generously and walks away.

                         KIARA
                  (sympathizes)
             Sorry to hear that about your
             dad, PJ. Azlhimzer is a very
             difficult disease for family
             members to deal with, especially
             in the intermediate family. They
             have to be watched constantly
             because they can wonder off.

PJ shakes his head.

                         PJ
             I don't know....I don't wanna put
             him in a home. He's my Dad.

KIARA holds PJ hands.

                                                           80.

                         KIARA
             PJ. Listen. I know it's not
             pretty. But this is just a part
             of life we all have to deal with
             one day. The burden is going to
             lie on some member of a family.
             It's just unfortunate your Dad
             has this disease that invades
             mostly older folks.

                         PJ
                  (smiles)
             You know, Kiara. I should have
             married you long time ago....My
             bad. I see that now....I was so
             wrapped up in the business and my
             dreams.

KIARA leans across the table and kisses PJ on the lips.

                         KIARA
                  (smiles)
             Thanks for that, PJ. But so was I.
             We just didn't let anyone get in
             the way of our dreams----and here
             we are.....Baby, don't be so hard
             on yourself.....

They pause and smiles at each other.

                         PJ
             You right, Kiara.....Listen I
             want you to do something for me.

PJ reaches in his pocket and pulls out the keys to his safe
deposit box.

                         KIARA
             What are you doing, PJ?

                         PJ
             Don't panic. This is not the key
             to my family beach house. This is
             the key to my safe deposit box.

                         KIARA
             But I don't understand.....

                         PJ
             Hear me out. At this time you are
             the only one I can trust if
             anything happens to me.
                         (MORE)

                                                           81.

                         PJ (CONT'D)
             In that box is instructions of
             what to do just in case I'm not
             available. I will explain
             everything to you in a few days.
             Just promise you will do this.

KIARA is surprise that he trusts her like a family member.

                         KIARA
             Are you in trouble?....

                         PJ
                  (downs his head)
             Nothing I can't handle. I'm just
             being on the safe side here. And
             I wanna know that my Dad is going
             to be taken care of. What better
             friend to have than a doctor.....

KIARA thinks before taking the key. She doesn't know what to
do.

                         KIARA
             But PJ----

                         PJ
                  (interrupts)
             Please Kiara...Take the key...

KIARA takes the key.

                         KIARA
             Okay....In two days, you gonna
             have to tell me what kind of
             trouble are you in, PJ.....I have
             to know.

                         PJ
                  (holds her hands)
             Okay. Just promise you won't tell
             anyone. This is a secret between
             me and you, baby.

They look at each other in the eyes and PJ leans across the
table and kisses Kiara.

                         KIARA
             I promise.....

FADE TO

                                                           82.

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CUT TO

INT. LQ'S HOME OFFICE-MIDNIGHT

LQ is looking at PJ'S insurance policy. He's going through
all the papers one by one.

                                            CUT TO

FRONT DOOR OF OFFICE

DASHAE peeps her head in the door.

                         DASHAE
             Are you all right, honey?

LQ looks up from the papers and gives a business like smile.
He pulls off his glasses.

                         LQ
             I'm fine, baby.

                         DASHAE
                  (still peeping)
             Do you need anything before I go
             upstairs?

LQ pauses a second before answering. He doesn't look up from
the papers.

                         LQ
             Uh, no, honey. I'll be up shortly.

DASHAE closes the door.

FADE TO

MUSIC: JAZZ

                                            CUT TO

INT.  L&M DEALERSHIP-OFFICE-MIDNIGHT

PJ is burning documents with a cigarette lighter and
throwing them in the trash can near his desk.

                                            CUT TO

                                                           83.

INT. LQ'S HOME OFFICE-2:00AM

LQ is still looking through documents. He takes a sip of his
coffee on the desk. He pulls off his glasses and rub his
eyes. He looks at his watch. LQ leans back in his chair.

FADE TO

MUSIC: BLUES

                                            CUT TO

EXT. OUTDOORS DELI-NOON

LQ is sitting at a table outside OUTDOORS DELI. He is eating
a Deli sandwich. A MIDDLE AGE BLACK MAN walks up to the table.

                         A MAN
                  (stands at table)
             Excuse me. Are you Mr. Henderson?

LQ wipes his hands with a napkin as he looks up to the MAN.

                         LQ
             Yes....You must be Mr. Trout, the
             insurance investigator......

The MAN smiles and nods.

                         LQ
                  (continues)
             Have a seat.....These sandwiches
             are delicious. You should try one.

LQ takes a big bite off the sandwich

                         A MAN(MR.TROUT)
                  (takes a seat)
             No thank you. I had a big
             breakfast. Can we just cut to the
             chase?

                         LQ
                  (wipes his mouth with napkin)
             Sure. But I must tell you, you
             don't have nothing on my client.
             He has done nothing illegal. So
             we could make this easy if your
             insurance company would just pay up.

                                                           84.

                         MR. TROUT
             Really.....Nice introduction.
             Your client want to sue us for
             vehicles he bought, stole for
             insurance collection, then sold
             the same cars on the black market.

                         LQ
             Is that right? And you can prove
             this little accusation?

MR. TROUT laughs.

                         MR. TROUT
             What do you think?

                         LQ
                  (picks up a tooth pick)
             I think you are bluffing.

MR. TROUT gets up to go.

                         MR. TROUT
             I'll see you in court and your
             client in jail.....

                         LQ
             Whoa, whoa....Okay. What're you
             trying to tell me is that my
             client is lying to me.

                         MR. TROUT
             Listen. Your client is not
             working alone. He's not the big
             fish we want. It's his contact
             we're after.

                         LQ
             You mean.....My client is involve
             with another person.

                         MR. TROUT
             He disguises himself as a
             mechanic and body expert. We've
             been after him for years, but
             couldn't come up with no evidence
             to convict him. He's smart and
             doesn't leave any trails behind.

                         LQ
             But you still haven't told me how
             you gonna prove this about my
             client.
                         (MORE)

                                                           85.

                         LQ (CONT'D)
             I just can't take your word that
             all this is the truth and nothing
             but the truth...You know what I'm
             saying?

                         MR. TROUT
                  (smiles)
             We've got enough evidence to
             arrest your boy right now,
             counselor. All we want your
             client to do is testify against
             the big fish we've been trying to
             catch for years and he goes free.

MR. TROUT reaches in his coat pocket and pulls out his
business card.

                         MR. TROUT
                  (hands the card to LQ)
             You got two days and we're coming
             for your boy.....Have a nice
             day......

MR. TROUT gets up from table leaving LQ speechless.

FADE TO

MUSIC: R&B

                                            CUT TO

INT. LQ'S LAW OFFICE-MORNING

LQ is on the phone talking with PJ. He is pacing the floor.

                         LQ
             If this is true, PJ. They got us
             by the balls.......Why didn't you
             tell me this in the first place
             PJ. Listen. As your Lawyer, I
             advise you to take the offer. You
             talking about your ass and prison
             time here. Okay. It's your call.

LQ hangs up the phone. He flops down in his chair.

FADE TO

MUSIC: R&B

                                            CUT TO

                                                           86.

INT. PJ'S HOUSE-LIVING ROOM-LATE EVENING

PJ is changing channels on television. His DAD is asleep in
his wheelchair. PJ looks over at his DAD. He gets up and
begins to wheel him to his bedroom. The doorbell rings. He
stops to answer the door.

INT.  FRONT DOOR

PJ looks out the peep hole of the door. He smiles. Suddenly
five gunshots blast through the door. PJ falls backwards to
the floor. He is gasping for breath.

                                            CUT TO

LIVING ROOM

PJ'S DAD is sleep in his wheelchair. His head slumps over to
the side. The television screen is flipping horizon lines.

                                            CUT TO

MUSIC: CONTEMPORARY JAZZ

INT. FRONT DOOR

PJ is laying on the floor. He is dead.

FADE TO

MUSIC: CONTEMPORARY JAZZ

                                            CUT TO

INT. LQ'S HOME OFFICE-MIDNIGHT

LQ dials a number on his phone sitting at the desk.

                                            CUT TO

INT. PJ'S HOUSE-LIVING ROOM

The PHONE by the couch is ringing.

                                            CUT TO

FRONT DOOR

PJ'S body is on the floor. His DAD  is sitting in his
wheelchair. Tears running down his cheeks.

                                                           87.

                         DAD
             PJ. Get up now. I have to get
             ready to go to my office. My
             patients are waiting.

FADE TO

MUSIC: CONTEMPORARY SOFT JAZZ

                                            CUT TO

MUSIC: AMAZING GRACE

EXT. GRAVEYARD SITE-PARADISE CEMETERY

Everyone is standing around the casket that carries PJ'S
body. Relatives are weeping. KIARA, DASHAE and LQ are
standing sadly next to each other. The FATHER sits in a daze
looking at the casket.

                                            CUT TO

EXT.  COLLISION OUTLET

POLICE CARS pull up to the front door of COLLISION OUTLET
garage door. The POLICEMEN get out their vehicles in a hurry.
They cock their guns.

                                            CUT TO

EXT. GRAVE SITE-PARADISE CEMETERY

The REVEREND is saying the last words over PJ.

                         REVEREND
                  (bible in hand)
             Ashes to ashes and dust to dust.

KIARA is crying. LQ consoles her as he puts his arms around
her shoulders. DASHAE is standing near shaking her head.

                                            CUT TO

EXT. COLLISION OUTLET

POLICEMEN are escorting JIMMY to A POLICE CAR. He is
handcuffed as he bends his head to get in the car. SAND,
STICKY and RAM are sitting in the next POLICE CAR. They all
have their heads down in shame.

                                            CUT TO

                                                           88.

EXT. L&M DEALERSHIP

POLICEMEN are escorting JOSH to their car. JOSH is handcuffed.
He bends his head to get in the car.

                                            CUT TO

EXT. GRAVE SITE-PARADISE CEMETERY

Everybody is leaving the grave site with the exception of
LQ, KIARA and DASHAE.

                         DASHAE
                  (picks a rose from the
                  top of casket)
             Honey, I'll wait for you in the
             car. Are you coming Kiara?

KIARA smells the rose in her hand.

                         KIARA
             I think I'll stay for a moment,
             Dashae.

                         LQ
             I won't be long, honey.

KIARA goes over and kisses the casket.

                         KIARA
             Bye baby. I will always wonder
             how it could have been with me
             and you......

KIARA cries. LQ takes her in his arms as she cries on his
shoulder.

                         LQ
             It's okay, Kiara.....Let it all
             out.......

LQ FLASHES BACK

FADE TO

MUSIC: HIP-HOP

                                            CU TO

EXT. STREETS-2:15AM

TWO BLACK YOUNG BOYS are running down the street carrying
gold chains and a bag of money. They stop to catch their
breath.

                                                           89.

PJ and LQ sit down to count what the gold chains and money.
They rejoice by slapping hands together.

                         LQ
             Can't get no better than this! I
             love it!

                                            CUT TO

GRAVE SITE-PARADISE CEMETERY-PRESENT

LQ is standing near PJ'S casket.

                         LQ
             Hey, bro. It all started with
             that experiment. I didn't know it
             was going to hook you. We were
             just having fun. and trying to
             get in the mind of a thief. I
             feel like it's my fault why you
             are laying here....If I could
             take everything back right now, I
             would.

LQ wipes his teary eyes with his hand.

                         LQ
                  (continues)
             Deep down inside. You were and
             always will be my best
             friend.........You had a big
             heart, bro...........Peace.

FADE TO

MUSIC: R&B

                                            CUT TO

EXT. OUTDOORS DELI-NOON

MR. TROUT and LQ are chatting over a sandwich. Mr. TROUT
takes a big bite. He wipes his mouth as he shakes his head.
He swallows.

                         MR. TROUT
             This is good!

MR. TROUT takes another bite as LQ watches.

                         MR. TROUT
                  (continues)
             Get one....It's on me, Mr.
             Henderson.

                                                           90.

LQ  smiles.

                         LQ
             No. I think I'm going to pass. No
             appetite since----

MR. TROUT interrupts.

                         MR. TROUT
             Listen. I'm really sorry about
             what happened to your friend.

LQ looks very space.

                         LQ
             You know Mr. Trout, sometimes
             life just doesn't turn out the
             way you want it to. PJ was
             basically a good person.

MR. TROUT smiles.

                         MR. TROUT
             I believe that. He came from a
             good family. And he took care of
             his sick father after his mother
             passed. He's been dealing with
             Jimmy for a long time. Jimmy
             thought PJ was going to turn him
             in. That's why he went to his
             house that night and shot him dead.

                         LQ
             I never knew he was in so deep
             with this Jimmy. He was so
             personal during his senior year
             in high school. That is when we
             began to drift apart from each
             other.

MR. TROUT finishes his last bite of the sandwich. He picks
up his napkin to wipe his mouth.

                         MR. TROUT
                  (pauses)
             If I ever come back to your city,
             I'm going to stop here for
             lunch.....This sandwich----
             anyway, Mr. LQ, Jimmy taught PJ
             everything including the art of
             hot wiring Jaguars and Mercedes.
             Those were PJ's babies. He was
             addicted to ripping off vehicles.
                         (MORE)

                                                           91.

                         MR. TROUT (CONT'D)
             So addicted that he ripped off
             his own. Not that he needed the
             extra cash. He had a legit and
             prosperous business.

LQ is curious.

                         LQ
             But we were the best of friends.
             We did some crazy things when we
             were in high school-----

                         MR. TROUT
             But you didn't think he would
             continue to go against the law?
             It was his nature. It's like
             being a gambler who keeps rolling
             the dice as long as he's winning,
             then suddenly winning becomes a
             fever. PJ couldn't quit. He
             thought himself as an artist. An
             artist that had a touch for
             Mercedes and Jaguars. I've
             investigated many insurance
             frauds, but this one I wish could
             have had a happier ending. I
             don't care how smooth and classy
             a criminal may be, sooner or
             later the dice is gonna stop
             rolling. The dice stop rolling
             for your friend.

MR. TROUT gets up from the table. He pulls out some money
from his pants pocket and lays it on the table. He takes his
coat from the chair and puts it on.

                         LQ
                  (looks up at Mr. Trout)
             I guess you're right.

                         MR. TROUT
                  (standing)
             Well, it was nice chatting with
             you, but I got a flight to catch.
             Some client in New Jersey is
             suing us for not paying up on
             vehicles he torched himself.

LQ stands up and they shake each other hand.

                         LQ
             Have a safe flight, Mr. Trout.

                                                           92.

FADE TO

MUSIC: CONTEMPORARY JAZZ

                                            CUT TO

INT. SENIOR'S PLEASURE HOME-SUNRISE

PJ'S DAD is sitting in his room at SENIOR'S PLEASURE HOME.
He is staring out his bedroom window. Tears are running down
his cheeks.

FADE TO

MUSIC: CONTEMPORARY JAZZ

                                            CUT TO

EXT. GRAVE SITE-PARADISE-NOON

KIARA is placing flowers on PJ'S grave.

                         KIARA
                  (wipes her eyes)
             I really do miss you, PJ. I took
             care of your father. He's in a
             good place. I will visit him
             every week. And the money in the
             safe deposit box will be used for
             his care.

KIARA kneels down touches the grave.

FADE TO

MUSIC: CONTEMPORARY JAZZ

                         THE END

                                                           93.

                                                           94.

                                                           95.