This screenplay is copyrighted to its author. All rights reserved. This screenplay may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of the author.
FADE IN:
EXT. ST PAUL MINNESOTA -- DAWN -- WEDNESDAY MORNING
A perfect sunrise reveals a heavily treelined street laced
with beautiful and well kept homes. A PAPER BOY on his
morning deliveries jumps the curb on his bike.
One, two papers perfectly hit front porches when the boy
abruptly skids to a stops in front of a house that is
definitively out of place on this street.
It's run down, with trash scattered throughout the yard. On
the front porch, a stray DOG has its head stuck deep inside
one of three ORANGE, pumpkin faced trash bags.
The boy snatches a paper from his sack. He sails it at the
dog, but misses badly and hits the screen door window.
"SMASH" the glass shatters into a million pieces.
INT. HOUSE -- BEDROOM
A man lays asleep in bed, still clad in yesterday's work
clothes, his arm outstretched, BEER CAN clutched tightly in
his hand.
The sound of breaking glass has no affect on his slumber.
His name is DANIEL DELYONS. An average looking man of 22
years, hair a bit long, sporting several days of beard growth.
The room is in shambles. Nothing is where it should be.
The walls are completely covered with posters of beautiful
women. Several are in swim suits, some are not.
EXT. HOUSE -- STREET
A GARBAGE TRUCK pulls up to the curb. The paper boy escapes
across the boulevard just missing a man stepping from the
truck. The garbage man tosses trash bags into the side
opening, then pulls back on a lever, crushing the trash.
INT. HOUSE -- BEDROOM
A screeching noise echoes throughout the room. Dan's closed
eyes spring open to view his ALARM CLOCK just feet away.
The beer can becomes a MISSILE as it thrusts out the window,
crash landing into a sea of foam at the garbage men's feet.
Dan pounds the clock with his fist but it won't shut off.
His work boot does the trick as the clock is smashed to bits.
But the noise does not stop. Dan's a bit confused.
Out the window he looks, then at the clock again. In a second
he's racing toward the bedroom door when -BAM- he plants
face first into the closed door.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2.
Stunned, he plummets backward, landing flat on the floor.
His one open eye stares painfully at a smiling poster of
FAITH HILL that is taped to the ceiling.
Dan wobbles to the door. A laughing poster of ASHLEY JUDD
greets his pounding head.
DAN
God, I know you're listening. I'm
not asking for a miracle, just a
chance that my wish might come true.
He swipes Ashley's cheek with his thumb. He follows up with
a light kiss to the poster, then smiles wide.
DAN (CONT'D)
A simple kiss is all I want. I
promise, I'll clean up my act. No
more swearing, no fighting. I'd
even quit... drinking. Just give me
a sign that you're listening.
MONTAGE OF SCENES:
Showering, shaving, searching for some clean work clothes.
Dan pours cold coffee into an ORANGE cup, drips fall as he
slides it into an absolutely filthy MICROWAVE oven.
A RADIO clock on the kitchen counter reads 6:29 as a second
later it's 6:30. Bam, out blasts the morning babble.
MALE VOICE ON RADIO
Here's a little ditty that's got me
shaking in my boots. This is for
all Leo's out there. Our horoscope
for today says that our lives will
drastically change this morning.
Dan patiently waits for his coffee when SPARKS fly from
inside. He forgot to take the metal spoon from the cup.
Dan immediately grabs the smoking cup and promptly burns his
hand on the hot spoon.
Dan flings the spoon at the wall, where it ricochets to the
floor, joining several other scattered utensils.
MALE VOICE ON RADIO (CONT'D)
The last line says that tonight we'll
reap the rewards of a lifetime.
This is my lucky day. On the way
home I'm buying a lottery ticket.
DAN
A fool and his money soon part.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.
INT. WILLIAMS DISTRIBUTION WAREHOUSE OFFICE -- MORNING
Calmly sitting behind a large wooden desk is a balding middle
aged man. He's ED MINOR, an ornery old curmudgeon.
He delights in the smooth drag from a cigarette.
With perfection he sails a smoke ring across the desk top,
when the door swiftly opens blowing apart the smoke ring.
Entering the room is a well dressed man of 50 years. Visibly
upset, he lunges for the safety of a chair. His name is
MARLOWE WILLIAMS, owner of the Williams Distribution Company.
ED
Marlowe? Is something wrong?
His tone is serious as he reaches for Ed's pack of cigarettes.
MARLOWE
Has someone ever drove you so crazy
that you can't even think straight.
Ed shakes his head "yes". Marlowe sucks in a long drag.
MARLOWE (CONT'D)
I woke last night from a horrible
nightmare. I was standing in the
doorway of a church at my daughter's
wedding. I pulled on the doors but
they wouldn't open. I screamed out
"NO". No one turned a head except
the groom. It was Delyons. He smiled
at me, turned to Mary and said I DO.
ED
He was marrying your daughter?
MARLOWE
Yes! My worst fear is that this
nightmare will come true. I will do
anything to avoid that, anything.
Marlowe's trembling hand puts out his cigarette in an ashtray.
Ed's face lights up with joy.
ED
I understand. Consider it done.
EXT. DAN'S HOUSE -- FRONT PORCH
Dan crushes broken glass with his feet as he races toward a
rusted out ORANGE Ford pickup truck that is perfectly parked
in the grass next to the wide open driveway.
Dan stops for a moment, puzzled, he drags his hand down his
entire face at surveying the truck's location in the grass.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4.
EXT. DAN'S TRUCK -- CITY STREET -- MOMENTS LATER
Dan drives erratically, weaving in and out of traffic. He's
slowed momentarily by heavy traffic.
Traffic is again moving, he just misses the rear of a car.
He runs a red light as people in a cross walk recoil back.
INT. DAN'S TRUCK
Dan draws a cell phone from his front pocket, with difficulty
he dials. He catches the time on the RADIO clock. 6:55 AM.
DAN
Anytime now Mary.
MARY (V.O.)
Hello.
DAN
Good morning beautiful.
MARY (V.O.)
Morning. Are you calling from work?
DAN
Just about. My damn alarm clock is
broken again.
Dan swerves into a sizable parking lot.
A giant sign decorates the side of the building. It reads:
"WILLIAMS DISTRIBUTION, MINNESOTA'S LARGEST BEER DISTRIBUTOR"
MARY (V.O.)
It's not the alarm clock is it?
He hesitates, he's busted.
DAN
No, I got in late last night.
MARY (V.O.)
That's four nights in a row.
DAN
Four? Today's only Wednesday.
MARY
What about Sunday. When I called,
you were at the bar, again.
DAN
I wasn't at the bar on Sunday.
He can't hide it. His face reveals a big lie.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.
EXT. WAREHOUSE PARKING LOT
Dan's truck SKIDS to a stop, just inches from a parked car.
MARY (V.O.)
I wish you wouldn't lie to me. I've
always told you the truth.
Dan's out and running on a mad dash, zigzagging between parked
cars, cell phone stuck to his ear.
MARY (V.O.) (CONT'D)
I won't know for sure till later
today but I think I might be...
Dan hurtles a small fence when his feet fail him and he drops
the phone, causing the battery to fall off. He scoops it up
and quickly sticks the battery back on.
DAN
Mary! Hello. Damn it.
INT. WAREHOUSE -- HALLWAY
Standing there straight as a pine tree is Ed. Like a bolt
of lighting Dan splits between him and the wall.
DAN
Look out. Comin' through.
ED
I need to talk to you, Delyons.
Dan foot-slides up to the time clock, it's 7:00 a.m. He
frantically searches for his time card. There it is.
Whoosh, he punches in ONE second before the clock clicks
over to 7:01. He triumphantly thrusts his arms in the air.
DAN
It don't get any closer then that.
The mood is broken. A hand tightly clamps onto his shoulder.
ED
You're late for the last time.
DAN
Late? No way, I made it with one
second to spare.
ED
One lousy second will never CHANGE
anything for you.
Dan's a bit confused. Ed looks totally annoyed.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.
INT. ED'S OFFICE -- MOMENTS LATER
Dan rests calmly in a chair when the door SLAMS, causing the
glass to wobble, almost breaking. Ed forcibly drops a large
stack of FOLDERS onto his desk.
ED
How you ever got out of the mail
room is beyond me.
Dan spies a bowl full of mouth-watering CANDY on Ed's desk.
He reaches for a piece but Ed won't have it, he pounds his
fist down on the desk. Dan springs back in his seat.
Ed opens a folder with 2003 printed on the cover, he carefully
scans the entire page. Ed rolls his eyes in disgust.
Ed reveals to him the FULL page. Dan contorts in his seat.
ED (CONT'D)
If I get one more report that you
touched anyone, insulted anyone, did
anything to embarrass me or the owner
of this company I will...
DAN
Can I see what's in my file?
ED
No! Listen close, I won't say this
again. Consider yourself on grace.
DAN
On grace? What the hell's that mean?
ED
It means one more screw-up and your
sorry ass is fired. Is that clear?
EXT. ED'S OFFICE -- DOOR
A man gathering papers from the top of a file cabinet slyly
leans close to the door and listens. A short, stocky man,
the name BILLY is on his shirt.
INT. ED'S OFFICE
DAN
Yes, crystal clear. But Ed, you...
ED
You'd like to use up your grace
arguing with me?
DAN
It's a conspiracy, sir.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7.
ED
A Conspiracy? You should'a been
fired after your first week on the
job when you failed to come back to
work after a simple noon time
delivery. Now get out, NOW!
DAN
I told you a hundred times that my
truck broke down that afternoon.
Ed points his finger to leave.
Dan escapes from the room as Ed hauls from his desk a BLOOD
PRESSURE CUP.
He wraps it around his arm. Putting the stethoscope to his
ear he vigorously squeezes the small pumper.
INT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- KITCHEN -- MORNING
MARY Williams, a very pretty, slender woman of 21 years,
anxiously sits at a table twisting a long lock of her hair.
She shifts her gaze to the WINDOW, visibly waiting for
something when a car creeps into the driveway.
MARY
It's about time. Mother, Val's here.
NORMA enters the room, gorgeous from head to toe.
She's inquiring as she arrives at Mary's side.
NORMA
What are you two up to?
MARY
Nothing, just a little shopping.
NORMA
You have more clothes than you could
ever wear. Do you really need more?
Mary hesitates a moment, then painfully peeks back out the
window toward a very large back yard SWIMMING POOL.
MARY
I need something special. Saturday's
the 24th. The third anniversary of
the day I met Daniel.
Norma softly rubs Mary's shoulders, then stares with
uncertainty out the window toward the pool.
NORMA
Has it been three years already?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8.
MARY
2 years, 11 months, 27 days.
Mary wastes no time as she streaks toward the back door.
Norma reaches out a lone hand but grabs only air.
EXT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- BACK DOOR
VALERIE, strolls up. A big woman, not fat, just big boned.
Val lumbers up the back steps as Mary blows down them.
VAL
Whoa, what's the hurry?
MARY
I feel like I'm going to throw up.
0VAL
It could be nerves. Or more likely
the start of morning sickness. You
have to relax. There's nothing you
can do but wait.
Mary slowly turns to give Val a "you got to be kidding" stare.
INT. WAREHOUSE -- LUNCHROOM -- MOMENTS LATER
Dan is fixed at a table scanning some paperwork. He's unaware
of the men gathering behind him. Billy cracks a cocky smile.
Prodded by other drivers, he slides up to Dan.
BILLY
Don't worry about Ed. Just call
that sweet little honey of yours,
she'll save your sorry ass once again.
Dan aggressively turns to confront Billy.
DAN
Don't go there, man.
BILLY
I just wish that she had a sister.
I could DO her, then I'd never have
to worry about losing my job.
Billy snorts with laughter. Dan stands immediately as his
CHAIR rockets across the room, smacking off a table.
DAN
You say one more word about her and
I'm gonna do you.
BILLY
Have you ever noticed she acts kind
of, well, just a little retarded?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9.
Quick as lighting, Dan THRUSTS his fist into Billy's jaw,
relocating him over a table and CRASHING it to the floor.
Dan leaps on Billy. One, two, three solid hits to Billy's
face send the surrounding workers in to break up the fight.
Billy gets off the floor holding his face. Ed's fuming as
he storms out of his office, the blood pressure band still
dangling from his swinging arm.
ED
What the hell was that noise?
Ed can't help but notice Billy's now REDDENED cheek. Ed
swings around to challenge Daniel, nose to nose.
ED (CONT'D)
You hit him, didn't you?
DAN
Never laid a hand on him.
In a booming voice, directed to the surrounding workers.
ED
Someone had better tell me what just
happened here! I'm not kidding!
A number of the workers look away, a few silently shake their
heads "no". Ed coldly stares at Billy.
ED (CONT'D)
What happened to your face?
Billy glances at Dan a sharp second.
BILLY
I fell.
ED
Used your face to break the fall
I'll bet. Get your ass out of my
sight. All of you, get out NOW.
Ed swiftly points at Dan as the pint-sized black pumper swings
around striking him square in the jewels. Ed's knees buckle.
ED (CONT'D)
Ah, I'm watching you. Give me ah...
one reason, one is all I need.
Slowly tip toeing back to his office, Ed stops at the door
to gather some strength.
Like rats fleeing a sinking ship, the other drivers scatter
out of the room.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10.
Back at the table, Billy confronts Dan.
BILLY
I promise, you will pay for this!
Scooping up his paperwork, Dan coldly stares down Billy.
DAN
If you ever degrade her like that
again, I'll knock your teeth out.
From the side a scrawny little man sneaks up to Billy.
Alvin is his name. He has the look of a weasel.
ALVIN
You idiot! I've been waiting three
years for this day. His route was
all but mine and you blew it for me.
BILLY
Believe me, you won't have to wait
long.
INT. VAL'S CAR -- CITY STREET -- MORNING
Val's attention is grabbed by a blinking dashboard light.
The gas gauge needle shows EMPTY.
VAL
Gotta stop for gas. What did you
tell your mother?
MARY
Shopping.
VAL
Shopping? You didn't tell her?
MARY
No. No one knows except you.
VAL
If you are pregnant, you can't keep
it a secret. They will find out.
Mary's distressed as she angrily turns her head away.
INT./EXT. VAL'S CAR AT GAS STATION -- MOMENTS LATER
Mary spots a WOMAN about her age resting on a bus stop bench.
She's definitely pregnant.
Mary stares profoundly as the woman struggles to her feet to
board a stopped city bus.
Mary reaches down with both hands and cradles her stomach.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11.
INT. BEER DELIVERY TRUCK -- CITY STREET -- MINUTES LATER
Dan reaches up to turn down the radio blasting out music.
He glances at the young helper seated next to him. JOE is
his name. He's 19 but looks all of 15 years old. Joe's a
little uneasy as he stares at Daniel.
DAN
Well say something. You're not
retarded are you?
JOE
No sir, I ah, did it take you very
long to become a driver here?
DAN
About a week. I started in the mail
room but moved up fast. Now I have
the best route in the company.
EXT. FRONT PORCH OF A HOUSE
A SMALL BOY, three or so, slips out the front door holding a
tiny GOLF CLUB and ORANGE GOLF BALL in his happy hands.
JOE (V.O.)
In a week? How did you manage that?
DAN (V.O.)
Just lucky I guess. I'll give you a
word of advice that worked for me.
On company time, never stop for a
burger. Always bring your own lunch.
Perfectly placed on the sidewalk is a rubber tee. He tries
to tee up the ball but fails. It rolls off toward the street.
The boy giggles as he picks up the ball at the street's edge.
JOE (V.O.)
I know. Do you know what it cost's
for a burger nowadays?
The boy's second attempt to tee up the ball fails. This
time the ball makes the street, the kid's hot on its trail.
INT. BEER TRUCK
DAN
I know exactly what it costs. You're
a smart kid. You'll be driving in...
OH SHIT!
Dan instantly spots the rolling orange golf ball. A second
later the small boy runs into the street.
Dan takes evasive action - tires squealing, trailer skidding.
Dan skillfully keeps the truck under control.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12.
Joe, caught unaware and not buckled in, flies forward smacking
hard off the dashboard. He pops up and buckles himself in
the seat. On the dash board is a large sticker that reads.
"All Employees Must Wear Seat Belts"
Dan falls out the door. He rounds the front only to be met
by the kid standing just inches from the shining bumper.
DAN (CONT'D)
Jesus H... So much for something
drastic happening this morning.
The boy hoists up his orange golf ball.
Dan nervously takes hold of the young boy's hand.
INT. HOUSE ON STREET -- KITCHEN
Loud music fills the room as a young WOMAN in her early
twenties stands stirring up a bowl of pancake mix.
Her name is Karen. She suddenly stops when her instincts
tell her something isn't quit right.
She spins around, looks through the OPEN front door to see
sun light reflect off the bumper her son is standing by.
KAREN
Bobby.
The pancake mix flattens to the floor as she dashes out the
front door.
EXT. FRONT OF BEER TRUCK
The worried mother clutches Bobby like the day he was born.
KAREN
Oh my god. Bobby, are you okay?
DAN
Let me guess, he belongs to you?
BOBBY
He's my son.
Bobby smiles as he hold out the orange golf ball. She slaps
the ball from his hand as it rebounds right to Dan.
He looks at writing on the ball. "Shamrock driving range".
KAREN
What were you doing in the street?
BOBBY
My ball roll way.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
13.
DAN
You'd better keep a closer eye on
him. We're talking inches, lady.
KAREN
How can I ever thank you.
DAN
We all got a little lucky this
morning. Let's just keep this between
us, our own little secret, okay?
She shakes her head "yes". Bobby reaches out and touches
Dan's hand.
BOBBY
Dat my ball?
Dan sees Karen shaking her head "no". Dan nods his head
"yes" agreeing to keep the ball. Dan touches Bobby's hand.
DAN
I bet you didn't know that this ball
is magic. Anyone who touches it
will be blessed with good luck.
Could I borrow it for a few days? I
sure could use a little GOOD LUCK.
Bobby giggles and shakes his head "yes". Dan ruffles up his
hair. Karen picks him up and now just admires Dan. Her
face that was previously filled with fear is transformed as
she smiles a mile wide.
KAREN
If there's ever anything we can do.
DAN
Maybe one day you can return the
favor. Until that day, good luck.
Dan smiles, then sticks the ball in his POCKET and walks
away. At the passenger side of the truck Dan bends down to
view spilled beer leaking from the bottom of the trailer.
He smacks his knee, then pops up to SHOUT into the window.
DAN (CONT'D)
Hey Rookie, you alive in there?
Joe unbuckles the seat belt, then peeks out the window.
JOE
I can't believe you're so calm.
INT. CAR PARKED BEHIND BEER TRUCK
A man in his 30s, well dressed with flawless hair, sits inside
a black Cadillac impatiently blasting away on the HORN.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
14.
EXT. BEER TRUCK SIDE DOOR
DAN
This is nothing. Last month I pulled
a guy out of a burning car but the
damn media showed up so I split before
they could take my picture.
JOE
That was you?
DAN
That was... what in the hell!
EXT. CAR BEHIND TRUCK
Dan rounds the rear of the trailer to witness a man pointing
his finger at him. Dan does a Bo Duke across the car hood.
In the corner of the windshield we catch a quick glimpse of
a card. It reads "ASSISTANT TO THE MAYOR OF ST. PAUL."
Dan lunges inside, tugging the man's hand off the horn.
DAN
This is a residential neighborhood
not the interstate.
The man SLAPS back Dan's hand and angrily points at him.
ASSISTANT TO MAYOR
Take your filthy hands off of me.
Dan quickly collars the guy by the shirt, pulling him part
way out the window, banging his FACE off the window edge.
The man reaches up to cover his eye.
DAN
Filthy? I'm gonna shove that horn
right up your...
Dan pulls harder on the guy's shirt.
The man struggles for the automatic window switch.
ASSISTANT TO MAYOR
I'm the assistant to the...
Dan attempts to smack the man but the window closes as Dan's
hand bounces hard off the window.
Dan jumps back in pain.
The man guns the car, backing up, just missing the car behind.
He jams it back into gear and steers straight for Dan.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15.
ASSISTANT TO MAYOR (CONT'D)
Ahhhh.
Dan tumble-rolls as the car misses him by inches.
Dan wipes the street debris from his now dirty work shirt.
INT. BEER TRUCK
Dan sinks into the seat. He wipes some sweat from his face.
JOE
What happened?
DAN
Some crack head tried to run me over.
Dan pulls a can of beer from his lunch cooler.
It's guzzled down in seconds. Joe looks on in a daze.
Dan squishes the aluminum can off the dash board and tosses
the empty to the floor.
JOE
Do you know what time it is?
Dan scans the radio clock, it's 8:44 as a SECOND later.
DAN
8:45. I'll tell yea, if I ever have
a son, the first thing I buy him is
a harness and ten feet of rope.
EXT. CLINIC PARKING LOT -- MINUTES LATER
In the background a sign reads "HIGHLAND CLINIC for all your
health care needs."
INT. VAL'S CAR
Val unbuckles her seat belt.
Mary's uncertain as she clutches her purse close to her chest.
VAL
They have home pregnancy tests. I
used one myself.
MARY
I need to know for sure.
VAL
How long since your last period?
MARY
Two months.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
16.
VAL
Two months? You don't need the test.
You're pregnant. Can I ask you
something personal?
MARY
Personal? About me?
VAL
About Dan. You were dating, Kevin
Otto right out of high school and
you up and dumped him for Dan Delyons?
MARY
Kevin wasn't the right man for me.
VAL
And Delyons is?
Mary opens her purse, handing Val a PICTURE of her and Dan
sitting on a park bench. They're both smiling cheek to cheek.
MARY
It's not what a man looks like that's
important to me, it's how that man
makes me feel.
VAL
I see the way you look at him. Do
you really love him that much?
MARY
I do.
VAL
You can't be serious.
MARY
I feel safe when he's with me.
VAL
Safe? He's a walking disaster area.
MARY
No, he's my knight in shining armor.
My Lancelot. He's opened my eyes to
see what a real man should be like.
VAL
A real man? We're talking about Dan
Delyons, not Richard Gere.
Mary reaches out and tightly squeezes Val's hand. Her voice
breaks as she rubs the top of her thighs.
MARY
I have to tell you what he did.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
17.
VAL
You're upset? What did he do to
you!
Val's mad. Mary's watery eye's search for a place to start.
MARY
Everything a man could do.
VAL
I knew he was a scumbag.
MARY
No, you got it all wrong.
VAL
Then tell me what happened to you.
MARY
Three years ago on July 24th. It
was hot that day, so hot. I thought
I'd just--but my legs--I, I couldn't
move them. I couldn't keep up.
VAL
What are you talking about?
MARY
I went down like a rock. Me, an
excellent swimmer. I was drowning
in my own pool. All of a sudden, he
was there for me. He saved my life.
VAL
Why didn't you tell me about this
before?
MARY
We decided not to tell anyone, not
even our parents.
VAL
You mean your parents don't know?
That doesn't make any sense.
MARY
I know, but he didn't want anyone to
treated him special, like a hero.
VAL
But he is a... he sure fooled me.
MARY
I know he's not perfect. I can live
with his faults because I know the
truth. If he hadn't been there for
me, I wouldn't be here today.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18.
VAL
I understand everything now.
Mary reaches out and takes back the picture from Val.
MARY
This is the only picture I have of
him. I don't know what I'd do with
out it, with out him.
VAL
You're very good at keeping secrets.
The lights come on from inside the clinic. It opens.
INT. OFFICE OF THE MAYOR OF ST.PAUL -- MORNING
A very well dressed man of 50 years sits at his desk. A
large plaque reads "MAYOR". Across from him sits his
Assistant, sporting a seriously swelled up black eye.
ASSISTANT TO MAYOR
Don't you think I'd tell you if I
knew who did this to me?
MAYOR
A black eye doesn't leave you blind.
What kind of vehicle was he driving?
ASSISTANT TO MAYOR
All I remember was that it was green
with a beer bottle on the back.
MAYOR
A beer truck driver? That narrows
it down to one company. You're coming
with me to identify this man.
ASSISTANT TO MAYOR
But sir, I leave this afternoon for
meetings in Chicago, I don't have...
MAYOR
Then leave this to me. When I'm
done with him, he'll be lucky to get
a job driving a garbage truck.
EXT. LIQUOR STORE PARKING LOT -- MORNING
The Green beer truck pulls into the lot and stops.
EXT. WILLIAMS WAREHOUSE PARKING LOT -- MORNING
Skidding up to the doors of the warehouse is a long black
limousine. It parks across a handicapped parking spot.
The car door opens as the Mayor promptly exits the vehicle.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
19.
INT. -- ED'S OFFICE -- MORNING
Sitting peacefully at his desk. Ed savors a sip of coffee.
All at once the door opens with a bang, almost breaking the
glass. Ed spills coffee on his clean white shirt. The Mayor
invades the room. Ed's pissed until he looks up.
ED
Damn it. Who the hell are... Mr.
Mayor, I didn't recognize you.
MAYOR
A green delivery truck, the driver
works for you. I want him.
ED
We do have one truck that color. Is
there a problem, sir?
MAYOR
Oh yea. I want this guy's name and
I want it now. His ass is mine.
ED
His name's Dan Delyons. He's been
nothing but trouble from day one.
MAYOR
No one assaults my assistant without
having to deal with me.
ED
It's not the first time he's done
something like this sir.
MAYOR
But it will be his last.
ED
You have my word. I will personally
take care of this situation.
MAYOR
I hope so for your sake. I go way
back with the owner of this company.
ED
Consider him fired the instant he
sets foot in my office.
MAYOR
Make this happen or your ass will be
standing right behind him, in the
unemployment line.
The smile drops right off Ed's face.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
20.
EXT. CLINIC -- SIDEWALK -- MORNING
Mary swiftly walks toward the car. Val thumbs through a
pamphlet about pregnancy. She halts Mary at the front of
her car.
VAL
Here, take this, it tells you what
to expect as your body changes.
MARY
Changes? How am I going to tell my
parents about this?
VAL
Having a baby is part of every woman's
life. Your parents know that.
MARY
I can barely take care of myself.
How can I take care of a baby?
VAL
It's in your blood. I know you'll
be the best mother your baby could
have.
Mary gives Val a monster hug.
INT. ED'S OFFICE -- MORNING
The Mayor walks out as Ed sits PARALYZED, staring bug eyed
at an array of pictures of his 25 plus years with the company.
He pops back to life and swipes the phone off his desk.
He spots a black paper weight with gold lettering that reads.
"25 YEARS OF EXCELLENT WORK". He hurls it at the glass door.
ELAINE, the receptionist, a young woman, has her head buried
in a book when the sound of breaking glass startles her.
She looks up in time to see the paperweight EXPLODE into the
wall, just feet from her desk.
ELAINE
Oh my god. Someone's shooting.
Ed stomps out over the broken glass. Elaine, now hiding
under her desk, observes a pair of feet approaching.
ED
Elaine! Get me Delyons on the radio.
She slides out from under the desk and scurries to the RADIO.
ELAINE
Base to 21 base to 21... Come in.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
21.
EXT. LIQUOR STORE PARKING LOT -- DAY
Dan is resting against a stack of cased beer when he hears
the truck's two way radio.
He leaps into the truck.
DAN
Yeah base, 21 here. Go ahead.
INT. OFFICE -- RADIO DESK
Ed snatches the microphone from Elaine.
ED
I was just paid a visit by the Mayor.
Do you have something to tell me?
DAN (V.O.)
Not really. I don't know the Mayor.
Ed slams his fist on the desk. Elaine recoils back in shock.
ED
What did you say?
DAN (V.O.)
I said, I don't know the Mayor.
ED
Get your ass back here now.
DAN (V.O.)
Right now? What about my deliveries?
ED
Get your ass back here now!
DAN (V.O.)
10-4 Ed, 21 out.
Ed zings the microphone at the Radio. He stomps back into
his office crushing more of the broken glass under his feet.
INT. BEER TRUCK -- CITY STREET -- DAY
Billy and Alvin look at each other and start laughing.
INT. LIQUOR STORE -- FRONT COUNTER
Dan wanders in like nothing's happened.
An older man is perched behind a counter, mid fifties, wearing
a "golf or die" t-shirt. His name is LEROY WINTERS.
DAN
I need some money, Leroy.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
22.
LEROY
Don't we all. What's the verdict?
DAN
752.55 straight up.
Leroy pulls out a checkbook. Dan spots a large poster behind
the counter. It reads, "WIN A MILLION DOLLARS."
DAN (CONT'D)
Win a million dollars, what the heck's
that all about?
LEROY
The annual hole-in-one contest.
DAN
A hole in one, like that's golf right?
LEROY
What? You've never been golfing?
DAN
Do I look that stupid? Of course
I've been golfing, dozens of times.
Dan makes a swinging motion that appears more like he's
shooting a hockey puck than a golf ball. Leroy chuckles,
then curiously scans his watch for the time.
LEROY
I won't answer that. If you're gonna
enter, you better do it today. The
contest ends in about eight hours.
DAN
How much does it cost?
LEROY
10 bucks a pop. They draw 5 names
for a chance to win a million dollars.
DAN
Did you enter?
LEROY
Ten times.
DAN
Ten times? Leroy, you feelin' okay?
You just wasted a hundred bucks.
LEROY
It's the best money I've ever spent.
Besides, it makes me feel good to
know that even that SMALL amount can
help a child to live a last wish.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
23.
DAN
I still think it's a huge waste of
money. I'll take just one ticket.
Dan draws a ten from his wallet and signs the back of the
ORANGE ticket. Leroy tears it apart and hands half to Dan.
LEROY
Don't lose that ticket.
DAN
Yeah, I know right where to put it.
Dan drops it in his wallet, behind the same smiling PICTURE
of him and Mary.
LEROY
Good luck. We'll see you next week.
DAN
Not if I win the million. I'm packing
up the truck and heading to Florida.
INT. BEER TRUCK -- MOMENTS LATER
Dan pounds down another brew.
Joe gazes down at a half dozen empty beer cans at his feet.
DAN
What would you do with a million
dollars?
JOE
Retire after one day on the job.
DAN
Not me, I'd spend it all for a kiss
from the actress Ashley Judd.
Dan lets out a nasty beer belch then tugs down the visor,
revealing a picture of Ashley smiling.
DAN (CONT'D)
Now there's a woman. God has never
made a more beautiful smile.
JOE
You better lay off the suds. No
kiss is worth a million dollars.
Even if it is from Ashley Judd.
DAN
Believe me son, a kiss from her would
be worth every penny.
Dan kisses his finger and touches it to Ashley's picture.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
24.
INT.-- WAREHOUSE -- AFTERNOON
Dan hops out of the truck.
No sooner do his feet hit the floor then the air is pierced
by Ed's voice on the intercom.
INTERCOM (V.O.)
Delyons, report to my office. Now.
Dan makes the dreaded walk to Ed's office. He cautiously
avoids a pile of broken glass.
DAN
Earth quake go off around here?
INT. ED'S OFFICE
Dan sneaks in. Ed spins around in his chair to face him.
ED
It took you less than an hour to use
up your grace.
DAN
I think you're mistaken.
ED
Is "idiot" tattooed on my forehead?
DAN
I don't see anything from here.
Dan spots a sly grin. Ed's eyes show stone cold anger.
ED
You had an encounter on a city street
this morning. Care to tell me what
happened?
DAN
Is that what this is all about? The
kid that ran in front of my truck?
ED
Bullshit! There was no kid.
DAN
I swear it's true. I damn near
flattened the little guy.
ED
Liar! You assaulted the Mayor's
Assistant this morning, didn't you?
Ed SLAMS the desk top. The candy dish flies, sending small
pieces of candy raining down on Dan's lap.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
25.
Dan pulls a piece of candy from his front pocket.
He skillfully unwraps it and tosses it in his mouth.
DAN
You gotta believe me, I had no idea
who that guy was.
ED
Of all the people in this city, you
had to mess with the Mayor.
DAN
The guy wouldn't lay off the damn
horn.
Ed leans forward and points a mean finger at Dan.
ED
The Mayor chewed me a new one. I'm
giving him what he wants, you.
Dan unwraps another piece of candy and tosses it in his mouth.
ED (CONT'D)
You don't know how long I've been
waiting for this day.
DAN
What, it was just a little slap.
ED
Your grace is gone. YOU'RE FIRED!
Dan spits out the half chewed candy, right past Ed's head.
DAN
Fired? Can't we talk about this?
ED
Get out! You don't work here any
more.
DAN
But.
Ed points his shaking finger toward the door.
Dan creeps out, takes his time card and punches out.
Trudging to the front door, he leaves.
Ed follows his every move, then picks up his phone.
ED
It's done sir. He's leaving as we
speak. Yes sir. Thank you, sir.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
26.
EXT. WAREHOUSE PARKING LOT
Dans truck drives out the driveway.
EXT. CEMETERY ENTRANCE -- AFTERNOON
Dans truck enters a cemetery and stops at a grave site.
Dan stares down at a large grave stone that reads, "ROSE
DELYONS". He carefully places a dozen roses into a large
glass vase. He pulls a few dandelions from the stone's base.
DAN
Things aren't going so well, Mom.
Tears start to roll as he quickly wipes them away.
EXT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- DRIVEWAY -- AFTERNOON
Val and Mary are sitting in Val's car. Val drinks from a
bottle of water. Mary thumbs through the pregnancy pamphlet.
MARY
This has got to be a dream. It
doesn't seem real, me a mother.
VAL
It's no dream. What do you want?
MARY
What do I want?
VAL
Yea silly, a boy or a girl.
MARY
I hadn't even thought about that.
VAL
Whether to get blue or pink. We
live for that kind of decision.
From the house, Norma walks out the door toward the car.
Mary gets nervous, grabbing Val's arm.
MARY
Oh my god, here comes my Mom. How
am I going to tell her.
VAL
Open your mouth and say it.
Norma leans against the car door.
NORMA
Hi girls. Is something wrong? You've
been sitting out here a long time.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
27.
Mary struggles to say something when she looks down at the
pamphlet in her hands.
MARY
Mom, we need to talk.
She hands the pamphlet to Norma, who looks at the cover.
Norma reaches up and touches her now quivering mouth.
MARY (CONT'D)
I'm gonna have a baby.
Mary drops back in her seat, anticipating a tongue lashing
but gets the opposite.
NORMA
A Baby? Why didn't you tell me.
Norma opens the door and draws her out to a monster hug that
only a grandmother could give.
MARY
I just found out. I don't blame you
if you feel I've let you down.
NORMA
Oh Mary, you've never let me down.
MARY
But Mom, I'm not married.
NORMA
Do you want to have this baby?
MARY
More than anything.
Norma wipes back Mary's hair, looks her deep in the eyes,
then kisses her on the cheek.
NORMA
Then marriage can wait. Let's go
inside, we need to start making plans.
Norma walks away. Mary's downright shocked, she stands frozen
as Val leans toward the open window.
VAL
See, I told you. You have nothing
to worry about except the pain.
Val starts the car, drops it in gear and pulls away.
MARY
Wait a minute. What pain?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
28.
INT. FRANKIE'S BAR -- EVENING
Frankie's is a very dark, dingy low end beer joint. Billy
and Alvin are planted on bar stools.
Dan crashes the front door, heads straight to the bar and
pulls out a stool.
BARTENDER
The usual tonight?
BILLY
Better give him a double shot of
whiskey, on me.
DAN
Not a chance. I can't see straight
when I drink whiskey.
Billy cocks an inquisitive EYEBROW at those words. Dan tosses
a twenty on the bar. The Bartender opens a bottle and slides
it into Dan's hand, followed by the change for the twenty.
BARTENDER
Man, I can't believe you got canned.
ALVIN
I canned.
BILLY
So canned I.
Dan pounds the beer and nudges the empty at the Bartender,
who pushes a full bottle back into Dan's waiting hand then
answers the phone under the bar.
DAN
That's the best you ladies can come
up with?
BILLY
Here, call her. Maybe if you lick
her boots she'll talk to daddy.
Dan gets extremely pissed. He smacks the phone away then he
yanks Billy off the stool, pushing him against the bar.
DAN
Keep it up, you'll be leaving here
in the back of an ambulance.
Dan cocks his arm back to nail Billy in the face when the
bartender stops him.
BARTENDER
Whoa... hold on a minute the phone
is for you.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
29.
DAN
For me? Who is it.
BARTENDER
I don't know, take it in the booth.
Dan releases Billy and heads right to the phone booth.
Billy picks his cell phone up off the floor and dials.
At the phone booth, Dan grabs the phone.
DAN
Hello?
MARY (V.O.)
Why haven't you answered your phone?
DAN
Mary? I would of but I don't have
my charger. What's the matter?
MARY (V.O.)
I went to see a doctor this morning.
Worry crosses his face as he stops drinking his beer.
DAN
A doctor? Are you feeling okay?
MARY (V.O.)
I'm fine. Can you come over please.
Relieved, Dan tilts back in the booth, looks at his watch.
DAN
It's after six? I'll never be able
to get past your father. You remember
what happened last week when I tried
to crash your birthday party.
Entering the bar are TWO COPS. They march up to the bar.
Dan notices the cops speaking to Billy, who in turn points
at the phone booth. The cops turn and quickly scoot to him.
MARY (V.O.)
He didn't know the gun was loaded.
DAN
The first shot may have been an
accident, the second was on purpose.
I still have ringing in my ears. Aw
crap! Baby, I can't talk right now.
MARY (V.O.)
You're not coming to see me?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
30.
DAN
I don't think I'll be able too.
The cops now surround the phone both door.
Dan opens the door slowly as the lead cop pulls the phone
from his ear and hangs it up.
INT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- DEN
MARY
But, I'm gonna have a baby. Dan,
don't hang up on me again.
Marlowe enters in time to see her slam down the phone.
She's fuming. He's confused.
MARLOWE
What's going on? Mary, what's wrong?
MARY
Nothing, nothing's wrong.
He reaches out to her but she brushes him aside.
Mary streaks across the room.
She reaches the patio door, hesitating a moment, she lightly
rubs the DOOR FRAME with her hand then escapes out the door.
MARLOWE
Why is she upset? Is this about
Delyons being fired?
NORMA
What! You fired Daniel?
MARLOWE
No. I had nothing to do with it.
NORMA
You're lying. Your handwriting is
all over this.
MARLOWE
So what if I did. I don't answer to
anyone when it comes to protecting
my daughter.
NORMA
You made a promise to her three years
ago. That's not fair to her.
MARLOWE
No one ever said that life was fair.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
31.
EXT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- SWIMMING POOL
Mary sits at the rim of the pool, her FEET in the water.
With both hands she lightly RUBS the tops of her thighs.
Norma slowly comes up from behind.
NORMA
Are your legs sore?
MARY
My legs are fine. It's my life that's
falling apart.
NORMA
I know it's been a rough day.
Norma slips off her shoes and drops her feet in the water.
MARY
Things were going so smoothly. All
of a sudden everything's.
NORMA
Going to be just fine. I want you
to know that I'm always here for
you.
MARY
I know.
Mary reaches down and scoops up a hand full of water and
rubs her hands together.
NORMA
It's been ages sense we swam together.
What do you say we do a few laps.
MARY
I want too but I'm to upset to swim.
NORMA
When you were a little girl. I always
knew right where to find you, here
in the pool.
Mary starts to vigorously rub the tops of her thighs.
MARY
Daddy called me his little mermaid.
NORMA
Soon you'll teach your own children
to swim like a mermaid.
MARY
Like you taught me.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
32.
NORMA
Baby, this might not be the best
time to say this but I have to.
MARY
What is it?
NORMA
The reason why Daniel may be a little
hard to deal with tonight is... he
lost his job today.
MARY
He lost his job? Why?
NORMA
He was fighting again.
Mary melts into her mother's arms.
INT. FRANKIE'S BAR
Officer COOPER, a long-time St.Paul cop in his early forties
and in excellent shape hovers over Dan.
Dan attempts to get up but is shoved back down in the seat.
COOPER
Weed man, you've popped up again. I
have here a warrant for your arrest.
DAN
A warrant? Jesus, what for?
COOPER
Assault upon a public official.
Cooper grabs Dan by the shirt collar and yank's him off the
stool. Seconds later his face is pushed up against the wall.
Every person in the bar is now focused on them.
DAN
Coop, you have the wrong man.
COOPER
I got direct orders from the Mayor
himself. You're going to jail.
The second cop cuffs Dan, pulling him away from the wall.
DAN
To jail? Can I at least finish my
first beer?
COOPER
I know you. That's not your first.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
33.
Billy and Alvin start laughing as Dan is escorted past them.
BILLY
Going for a little ride?
Dan notices his change on the bar.
DAN
Hey, butt brothers, the next round
is on me.
Dan exits the bar. Billy motions for another round.
The bartender pulls two more beers from the cooler.
ALVIN
That was classic man, letting the
cops know he was here.
BILLY
What are cell phones good for if you
can't use them to help out a friend.
INT. POLICE CAR -- CITY STREET -- TWILIGHT
Dan stares solemnly out the side window, then abruptly turns
his head away as the Williams warehouse comes into view.
Officer Cooper, glancing into his rear view mirror, catches
Dan squirming in his seat.
COOPER
You're the most wanted man in town.
DAN
Most wanted?
COOPER
How long have I been dealing with
you, five, six years now?
DAN
Sounds about right.
COOPER
This ain't no speeding ticket or
underage drinking in the park.
DAN
You seam to think I knew who that
guy was.
COOPER
That's always been your problem, you
don't think.
Dan leans forward, face up against the metal partition.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
34.
DAN
The Mayor, what kind of a guy is he?
COOPER
Former marine, he chews on nails and
spits out railroad spikes.
DAN
That's impossible.
COOPER
You obviously don't know the Mayor.
DAN
Rotten horoscopes. So much for
reaping the rewards of a life time.
COOPER
One day you'll understand that rewards
don't just fall into your lap, they
have to be earned.
Cooper turns to look at Dan as both cops laugh hysterically.
INT. OFFICE BUILDING -- DOWNTOWN ST. PAUL -- EVENING
Two men and a woman stand in a beautifully decorated office.
Several empty cardboard boxes encircle them.
JOHN, a 45 year old man sports a scheming smile. TOM, a
salesman, looks like a star quarterback.
JANET, the office secretary, a pretty well built woman wearing
a low cut blouse. Tom pours entry cards into a metal barrel.
JOHN
Did you get the box from my trunk?
TOM
Yes sir, I just dumped it in.
JANET
There sure are a lot of entries.
JOHN
I figure about 10,000, times 10 bucks
a pop, that's 100 grand. But I tell
Make A Wish that we only got 7
thousand entries. That's thirty
thousand extra bucks in my pocket.
Tom and John cynically laugh. Janet looks on in astonishment.
TOM
Our cut of 50 percent, plus expenses
should make for a real nice bonus
this year. Right John?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
35.
JOHN
That all depends on wither I can
trust you or not.
JANET
I'll do just about anything for money.
JOHN
That's why I hired you. Okay, now
that we are all on the same page.
Janet, spin the barrel. I'll pick
the first two, Tom the second two,
and you get the last one.
Janet spins the barrel. Grinning from ear to ear John pulls
out the first two names.
JOHN (CONT'D)
Our first contestant is, April Summers
of Spring Valley. The second one is
Candy Korn of Farmers Grove.
Tom reaches in for his two contestants.
TOM
Third contestant is, Johnny Walker
from Red Wing. The forth one is
Jane Tarzani from Jungle, Minnesota.
Janet stares at the opening of the barrel, hesitates a moment.
JOHN
Let's go sweet heart.
JANET
Okay, here we go.
She reaches deep into the barrel.
Pulling out an entry, she goes to read it when she realizes
she's pulled two.
JOHN
Just one if you don't mind.
JANET
I know, I know.
Flustered, she puts both entires back in the barrel, then
she picks a single entry closest to the opening.
JANET (CONT'D)
Our fifth contestant is Daniel Delyons
of... Dan Delyons of St. Paul?
JOHN
Dan who? Do you know him?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
36.
JANET
Ah no, never heard of him.
The look on her face reveals a different story.
EXT. DAN'S HOUSE -- STREET -- NIGHT
A light rain has fallen, casting a clean shine on the street.
Janet drives up in her tiny car. She's groans as she scans
the trash filled front yard.
Janet knocks on the front door, waits, then knocks again.
JANET
Hey Danny boy, you home? Open up
it's me, Janet Meyers.
No reply. Janet pulls a post it note from her purse, writes
out a note and sticks it to the door.
Mary drives up across the street. She stops and watches
Janet walk to her car and leave.
Mary quickly hikes to the front door.
She pulls off the note. It's too dark to read. Mary gathers
herself and knocks. No response.
She peeks through a window, sees nothing. She scoots back
to her car.
INT. MARY'S CAR
Mary's hand trembles as she holds the note up to the light.
A heart shape on the paper with words inside that read.
NOTE
Dan, stopped by to see you. Have a
Million Dollar surprised for you.
Call me on my cell phone as soon as
you get home. Love, Janet.
INT. CITY JAIL -- INTERROGATION ROOM -- THURSDAY MORNING
Dan leans back in a wooden chair.
He scans the room, a typical interrogation room, a lone table
and two-way mirror.
A male captain sits next to a plain clothes woman detective.
She ruffles through some papers, pulls a sheet from the pile
and passes it to the captain.
DAN
God, not another full page.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
37.
WOMAN COP
Mr. Delyons, how are you this morning?
DAN
I've definitely had better nights.
WOMAN COP
Now, we need to talk about you and
the Mayor's assistant?
DAN
No! Lady, I want my phone call.
WOMAN COP
You'd like to call a lawyer?
DAN
No! Screw the lawyer.
WOMAN COP
I really don't think this is the
time to start making threats.
DAN
I need to talk to my girlfriend before
I say a word to any of you clowns.
From her hand bag she procures a cell phone and slides it
across the table. It dives into Dan's lap.
WOMAN COP
You've got two minutes.
She and the captain step out. Dan dials the phone.
He cocks his head to observe the two way mirror.
MARY (V.O.)
Hello.
DAN
Good morning beautiful. I'm sorry I
couldn't make it over last night.
MARY (V.O.)
Why are you in jail?
DAN
How did you find out?
MARY (V.O.)
Did you beat up the Mayor's Assistant?
Dan shields his mouth from the two way mirror.
DAN
I'm sorry. I did, but I swear.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
38.
MARY (V.O.)
Who is Janet?
DAN
He deserved... Who?
MARY (V.O.)
Janet. I saw her at your house last
night. She left a note on your door.
DAN
Baby, do you have any bail money?
MARY (V.O.)
You didn't answer me. Who is Janet?
Why does she want you to call her.
Dan hears the DOOR opening, he pivots to see the Woman and
the Captain returning to the room.
DAN
I don't know any Janet. I need bail
money, can you take care of that for
me?
MARY (V.O.)
Are you telling me the truth?
DAN
The whole truth and nothing but...
The woman cop nabs the phone and slides it to her ear.
MARY (V.O.)
I believe you. Daniel, you're going
to be a.
WOMAN COP
Sorry, this conversation is over.
She flips the phone shut.
From behind a door flies open, colliding with the wall.
Dan snaps his head for a look. All eyes track the Mayor as
he enters the room.
MAYOR
Good morning captain, lutenant. I
only have a minute to spare. Well,
well. So this is our mad slaper?
The Mayor steps around, getting right in Dan's face.
MAYOR (CONT'D)
I dare you to slap me. Come on tough
guy, I'm waiting, SLAP ME.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
39.
The Mayor cocks his hand to strike Dan's face. Dan looks
for help from the woman detective.
DAN
Can he say that to me?
WOMAN COP
The Mayor is still a police detective
Mr. Delyons. He has decided to handle
your case personally.
DAN
The Mayor is still a cop?
MAYOR
You're gonna get what you deserve.
Nobody makes a fool out of me. When
this weekend is all over, I'm going
to hang a large picture of you on
the wall in my office.
Dan's a bit ruffled as the Mayor lightly slap's his face.
MAYOR (CONT'D)
Whenever some one asks me why it's
up there, I'll laugh my ass off and
tell them to take a good look. That's
the face of a loser.
The Mayor straightens out his suit. The captain and the
woman detective stand and face the Mayor.
MAYOR (CONT'D)
Captain, I'll be at a charity banquet
this morning. Keep me informed on
your progress on this case.
As he leaves the Mayor puts an ORANGE BUTTON on his lapel.
It reads "FOUNDING MEMBER - MAKE A WISH MINNESOTA"
INT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- KITCHEN -- MORNING
Mary strolls in. Marlowe and Norma are sitting at the table.
Mary's focus falls directly upon her father.
MARY
We had a deal. I do what you want,
you keep Daniel on with the company.
MARLOWE
He's been drinking on the job and
now he's beating people up. How
long until he turns on you?
MARY
He's never laid a hand on me.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
40.
MARLOWE
If he ever did, I'd kill him.
Mary, deserts the table when Norma stops her. She hugs Mary,
then gives Marlowe a sharp look of disapproval.
MARY
Mom, I don't know what to do?
NORMA
How about we bail him out.
Marlowe is jolted by her words. He stands, causing the table
to shift a foot, knocking over a number of dishes.
MARLOWE
Bail him out? What in the world is
wrong with you two?
NORMA
We could use your help. A little
bail money would be a good start.
MARLOWE
As long as I have a single breath
left in my lungs, he doesn't exist
to me.
Those words shock Mary. Marlowe stomps out the back door.
MARY
He's never done anything to Daddy.
Why does he hate him?
NORMA
It's a male thing. No man is ever
good enough for another man's
daughter.
MARY
Please don't tell Daddy about the
baby. He might not miss this time.
NORMA
Your secret's safe with me. Now,
let's round up some bail money.
MARY
Thank you... for helping him.
INT. CITY JAIL -- CELL BLOCK -- MORNING
Dan sits on the edge of a bed. A guard unlocks the cell
door and points at Dan.
GUARD
Front and center, you've made bail.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
41.
Dan jumps to his feet, struts confidently out of the cell.
INT. CITY JAIL -- OUTER WAITING ROOM
Dan scans the room. A tug on his arm spins him around.
He's flabbergasted to see Janet standing at his side.
JANET
Hey handsome, long time no see.
DAN
Janet? What are you doing here?
JANET
What, can't an old friend help a
friend who's in trouble?
DAN
In trouble? Wait a second, how'd
you know I was in jail?
JANET
I hate to tell you this but you led
every newscast in town last night.
DAN
Newscast? I was on TV?
JANET
Everyone in town knows what you did.
Dan pounds his forehead in amazement.
DAN
No way.
JANET
Somebody's got it in for you.
DAN
The Mayor, he's behind this.
JANET
It's been awhile since high school,
how have you been?
DAN
Up until yesterday morning, good.
INT. MARY'S CAR -- FRONT OF JAIL
Mary pulls to a stop at the curb.
Mary glances up as Dan and Janet bounce down the front steps.
Mary's visibly upset as she points a finger at them.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
42.
MARY
That's the woman, from last night.
What's she doing here?
EXT. JAIL -- SIDEWALK
JANET
Can I give you a lift?
DAN
Yea, drop me off at Frankie's.
JANET
I've got something to tell you that
will put a huge smile on your face.
Dan turns, looking Janet straight in the eyes. She's as
giddy as a school girl.
JANET (CONT'D)
You're one of the lucky five.
DAN
One of what five?
JANET
I'm proud to inform you that your
name was chosen as a contestant in
the 5th annual hole-in-one contest.
DAN
What? Is this some kind of joke?
JANET
No joke, I picked your name myself.
DAN
Are you telling me that I have a
chance to win a million dollars?
Dan seizes Janet around the waist, raising her off her feet.
JANET
That's what I'm telling you.
DAN
Unbelievable. What do I have to do?
JANET
Just show up on Saturday at the
Shamrock Golf Course and you'll get
your chance to win a million dollars.
Janet gives Dan a satisfied gaze.
Before he can reply, she quickly tries to kiss him, but he
skillfully avoids her mouth. She gets a piece of his cheek.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
43.
INT. MARY'S CAR
Mary witnesses the kiss. She's in total shock.
Norma reaches out, taking hold of Mary's arm.
MARY
Oh my God. Now they're kissing.
Mary quickly jerks open the car door. She spins back to
face Norma.
MARY (CONT'D)
He'd better have a good explanation
for this.
EXT. JAIL -- SIDEWALK
Dan's not amused at Janet's attempted kiss.
DAN
Why did you do that?
JANET
I'm just happy for you.
DAN
What would make me happy is a ride
to get my truck.
Janet bounces like a bunny around to the drivers door.
Getting in, she eyes Dan through the open window.
JANET
Well, you coming or not?
Dan opens the side door and leaps in.
Mary, 50 feet away, trots toward the car as it speeds away.
MARY
Daniel, wait.
Mary's a little dazed as the car vanishes around a corner.
Norma creeps up to her side and takes hold of her hand.
NORMA
I'm sure it's nothing.
Mary spins around, angrily flinging Norma's hand away.
MARY
Mother, I wasn't born yesterday.
NORMA
Baby, before you blow this all out
of proportion you need to...
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
44.
MARY
He was all over her, and in public.
Now I know why he won't come over to
our house any more.
NORMA
It's probably nothing sweetie.
MARY
He said he didn't know her. He lied
to me.
NORMA
Every relationship has a rocky moment
or two.
MARY
What if he doesn't love me any more?
What if he doesn't want to be a
father?
INT. JANET'S CAR -- CITY STREET
Janet peers directly into Dan's eyes, smiling a mile wide.
DAN
I know what you're doing.
JANET
What? You always loved my smile.
DAN
When I was sixteen.
JANET
Do you remember how we first met?
Dan, looking down into his lap, slowly shakes his head "yes".
JANET (CONT'D)
My asthma flared up on the school
bus. You held onto my inhaler. You
stayed with me until I could breath.
Janet lifts her hand to wipe away a tear from her cheek.
JANET (CONT'D)
You held my hand and kissed my cheek.
It was the most terrifying, yet
memorable moment of my life.
DAN
I remember. Sometimes I feel like
I'm cursed. When I see a woman's
smile, a dozen emotions overtake me
until I feel just what she feels.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
45.
Dan wipes his face but still won't look at Janet.
JANET
What did my smile say on the bus?
DAN
You didn't.
JANET
My smile today says thank you.
Dan finally turns to Janet, when from over her shoulder he
spots Frankie's. He enthusiastically points to the bar.
DAN
You're welcome, whoa, there's
Frankie's.
The lot's completely empty but for a lone orange truck.
Janet pulls up and stops front bumper to front bumper.
JANET
You're still driving that old junker?
Dan hops out then leans back into the open window.
DAN
Rusty but trusty. Thanks for all
your help. I'll pay you back but
that's as far as I can go. Goodbye.
He nods his head and leaves. Janet watches him walk back to
his truck.
JANET
I'm not giving up that easily. I
gotta get him to look elsewhere.
Janet wisps her hair around and pulls at her blouse, revealing
a little more of her chest.
EXT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- GARAGE -- LATER
Mary's car pulls up and stops inside the garage.
MARY
His drinking is more important than
our relationship.
Mary retrieves a kleenex from her purse to wipe her eyes.
MARY (CONT'D)
He promised he'd love me. Not another
woman but me Mother, me.
Mary pulls out the picture of them on the park bench.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
46.
MARY (CONT'D)
This picture was taken the day after
we met. I want that day back. I
want that feeling back.
NORMA
I remember that day. I was sitting
at your father's desk when you showed
me that picture. I don't think I've
ever seen you so happy.
MARY
I remember you started crying.
NORMA
Oh, that's just a woman thing. We
cry over the simplest things.
Norma starts to cry, a second later Mary follows right along.
INT. JOHN SWEENEY'S OFFICE -- MORNING
The Mayor, standing at John's desk, keeps a chokingly tight
grip on a hand ball.
John is fixed behind his opulent desk. Tom nervously loosens
the knot on his tie. Jimmy is right behind the Mayor.
MAYOR
That figure had better be a joke.
JOHN
I never joke about money. Seven
thousand fifty-one entries.
The Mayor's body trembles as he hears the amount.
MAYOR
That's three thousand less than last
year's total.
JOHN
It was an exceptional year last year.
MAYOR
Seven thousand, that's what... thirty
five grand for me?
JOHN
My figure's a lot closer to thirty.
MAYOR
Thirty. You rotten thief. You're
skimming off the top, I know it.
JOHN
You don't know jack shit.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
47.
MAYOR
I have a file on you six inches thick.
It's just a matter of time.
JOHN
You can count. Why don't you count
your steps on the way out the door.
The Mayor slams his fist down on John's desk. John smirks
like the thief that he is.
MAYOR
Stealing money from the hands of
dying children. You make me sick.
JOHN
You make me sick. Get off that high
horse you're riding, before it bucks
you off face first into the dirt.
MAYOR
You'll make a mistake, crooks like
you always do.
JOHN
It's going to take more than paperwork
to bring me down. I don't think you
can do it but you're welcome to try.
MAYOR
I'll bring you down alright. You
can take that to the bank.
John pulls a check from his pocket, hands it to the Mayor.
JOHN
You can take this to the bank. I
assure you it will clear.
MAYOR
I've got special hand cuffs just for
you. I assure you, they will fit.
INT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- DEN -- MORNING
The phone rings, Norma answers it. A second later she covers
the mouth piece and walks to Mary.
NORMA
Dan would like to speak to you.
Remember, ask him about this woman.
Mary, lounging in a large chair bounces to her feet, she
uncharacteristically tears the phone from Norma's hand.
MARY
Hello.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
48.
DAN (V.O.)
Hi baby, you don't have to come down
to the jail. I'm out.
MARY
Really, how did you get out?
DAN (V.O.)
Ah, Billy from work, ah, yeah, he
came down and ah, he bailed me out.
MARY
You're lying. It wasn't Billy who
bailed you out.
DAN (V.O.)
Mary, you weren't at the police
station this morning, were you?
MARY
You said you didn't know her. You
lied to me, again.
DAN (V.O.)
Baby, I can explain. It's not what
you think.
MARY
You kissed her, in public.
DAN (V.O.)
I'm sorry. I did lie to you.
MARY
It's my turn to hang up.
Mary angrily rips the cord out of the wall and tosses the
phone away.
NORMA
What did he say?
MARY
Lies, nothing but lies.
NORMA
I think it's time to pay him a visit.
MARY
It won't do any good.
Mary escapes out of the room. As her door closes another
opens. Norma coldly stares Marlowe down as he places his
brief case on the desk.
NORMA
We need to talk.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
49.
Marlowe, ignoring her, opens his briefcase and attempts to
retrieve some paperwork.
Norma shuts the cover down on his hand.
He pulls back in shock at her conduct.
MARLOWE
What is wrong with you?
NORMA
What's wrong with me is you.
MARLOWE
Do not try and spin this, he's the
problem and you know it.
NORMA
Mary asked me why you hate him so
much. I'm beginning to wonder myself.
MARLOWE
The only reason he takes notice of
her is because of my money.
NORMA
You think the reason he loves her is
because he's after your money?
MARLOWE
What better way to get a big pay day
then to confuse and manipulate her.
NORMA
You're the one whose's confused.
MARLOWE
I know a dozen men like him. All
they think about is the money, leaving
their families behind in second place.
NORMA
Find yourself a big mirror. Take a
long hard look at what you see in it
and ask yourself that same question.
Norma storms away, slamming the door as she leaves the room.
Marlowe examines his sore fingers when the security cameras
that monitor their residence fire off a series of beeps.
Marlowe focuses on the TV monitor on his desk.
An orange truck, prominent on one of the FOUR split screens
drives into the driveway.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
50.
A second later the pickup enters a second part of the split
screen that reveals the front door area.
Marlowe slams his good hand down on the desk top.
MARLOWE
This nightmare is going to end.
EXT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- FRONT DOOR
Dan strides up to the door.
Located above him is a security camera.
It pans back and forth as Dan knocks on the door.
Marlowe opens it, jumps outside. His tone is serious.
MARLOWE
What did I tell you last week! Don't
make me get my magnum!
DAN
I need to see Mary.
MARLOWE
What you need is no longer an issue.
DAN
I want to talk to her, not to stand
here and argue with you.
MARLOWE
This pretend romance is over. I see
right through your little game.
Marlowe's face puffs with anger. Dan's is not far behind.
DAN
Pretend... little game?
Dan attempts to step past but Marlowe stops him with a stiff
arm to the shoulder. Dan looks at it then whacks it away.
MARLOWE
Name your price, I'll pay it.
DAN
Keep your money, I don't need it.
MARLOWE
You're not going to ruin her life.
DAN
Me? Ruining her life? I'd tell you
something about her LIFE but I won't
do it because I love her.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
51.
They stand nose to nose. Marlowe clinches his fist.
MARLOWE
If you ever say those words in front
of me again, I'll kill you.
DAN
You're gonna need more than a magnum
to keep me away from her.
MARLOWE
You just don't get it. Stay away
from her, she doesn't need you.
DAN
Shove it, you son of a bitch.
Dan's extremely pissed.
He storms back to his truck and burns rubber out the driveway.
EXT. DAN'S TRUCK -- CITY STREET -- MOMENTS LATER
Dan weaves through traffic, driving a lot faster than the
surrounding traffic. A TELEVISION NEWS VAN appears ahead of
him, slightly blocking the right lane.
Dan swerves around, cutting off the van, sending it careening
into the curb.
INT. NEWS VAN -- CITY STREET
Coffee and other items get hurled around the cab as the van
comes to a stop. A NEWSWOMAN CINDY, in her twenties, sits
stunned in the passenger seat.
The driver JAKE, a balding man in his forties, sits tightly
gripping the steering wheel.
CINDY
What just happened?
JAKE
That truck came out of no where and
just cut me right off.
CINDY
Did you get a license plate number?
JAKE
Plate number? No, I was trying to
avoid getting killed.
EXT. DAN'S HOUSE -- FRONT DOOR -- MOMENTS LATER
Dan storms the front door. He slides the key in and it breaks
off in the lock. Angry, he kicks in the door.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
52.
INT. DAN'S HOUSE -- KITCHEN
Dan heads straight to the refrigerator and snatches a beer.
He veers off down a hallway and sets down his beer, then
enters a closet. Soon, items start flying out the door.
A loud crashing sound follows.
DAN
Where's that golf club? Son of a...
A black bowling ball flies out, crashing into the wall.
It sticks there a second, then crashes to the floor.
INT. NEWS VAN -- CITY STREET -- MOMENTS LATER
Cindy scrutinizes a piece of paper, then looks at the houses.
CINDY
The Mayor gave me this address, 325
Monroe Street. Do you see it any.
They both straight arm point to an orange truck parked in a
driveway. Cindy damn near snaps a vertebra looking at Jake.
CINDY (CONT'D)
Is that the same orange truck that
tried to kill us?
JAKE
It sure is. And take a look at the
address, 325 Monroe Street.
INT. DAN'S HOUSE -- HALLWAY CLOSET
Dan limps out favoring his right foot.
He lifts up a golf club so old that the shaft is made of
wood, the head so large it covers half his face. The end
falls off.
DAN
Better whack a few, rotten piece
of...
He drops the shaft to the floor and grabs his beer off the
small telephone table.
The clock on the wall chimes 12 noon.
He strolls to the couch and pops on the television. On comes
the news at noon.
Taking a big drink of beer, he spits it out instantly at
viewing his own face covering the entire television screen.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
53.
DAN (CONT'D)
What the.
ANCHOR WOMAN ON TV.
Yesterday, the personal Assistant to
the Mayor was assaulted on a city
street, reportedly by a ST. PAUL
resident. For more on this breaking
story we go live to Cindy Jones
outside the accused man's residence.
EXT. DAN'S HOUSE -- FRONT YARD -- NOON
Cindy and Jake are broadcasting from the sidewalk, with the
front of Dan's house prominent in the background.
CINDY
We're here at the accused man's
residence. My sources have told me
that one Daniel Delyons is the man
responsible for this assault.
ANCHOR WOMAN ON TV. (V.O.)
Has the alleged suspect made a
statement to the press yet?
CINDY
No, he hasn't made a statement yet.
We did see him drive by in his
vehicle. We intend to speak to him.
INT. DAN'S HOUSE
Peeking out the WINDOW, Dan looks at Cindy, then at the TV.
Beer in hand, he hikes to the door.
DAN
I got a statement for you.
EXT. DAN'S HOUSE -- FRONT PORCH
Cindy knocks once as she primps her hair.
Sneaking a look through the half open door, Dan sucks down a
healthy shot of beer.
Cindy, not shy, sticks the microphone inside the door.
CINDY
Are you one Daniel Delyons?
DAN
No! Are you Cindy Crawford?
CINDY
Why no. Mr. Delyons? We'd like
just a minute of your time.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
54.
She thrusts a mug shot photo of Dan through the door.
DAN
You won't get a single second of my
time. Get the hell off my porch.
Dan tears up the picture. The cameraman sneaks onto the
porch. Dan flings open the door and heads right to him.
DAN (CONT'D)
Do you understand English?
The cameraman sticks out his hand, stopping Dan momentarily.
CINDY
Sir, all we want is to ask you a
simple question. Did you hit...
She sticks the microphone in Dan's face. He violently pulls
the microphone from her hand.
DAN
I'll hit you next if you don't leave
my property right now.
CINDY
Are you threatening me?
DAN
No threat, FACT.
Dan throws the microphone across the yard. Cindy retaliates
by jumping on his back. Dan drops her to the porch floor.
Cindy bounces right back up and executes a kick to the leg.
Dan bends over in pain when he sees the cameraman approaching.
He reaches down for that, orange smiling bag of trash.
With one looping swing he smashes it over the cameraman's
head, sending him busting through the porch railing.
Cindy coldly stares at Dan as she helps the cameraman up.
DAN (CONT'D)
No one takes my picture, no one.
The two of them wipe off the stinky garbage. Cindy picks up
the microphone. They both head back to the news van.
INT. DAN'S HOUSE
Dan escapes inside and SLAMS the door hard.
Cindy is now broadcasting on the television.
Her appearance is quite disheveled.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
55.
CINDY ON TV
As you just witnessed, we tried to
ask Mr. Delyons a simple question
when we too were assaulted.
ANCHOR WOMAN ON TV.
Cindy, are you okay? Are you injured?
CINDY ON TV
I'm fine. My cameraman's a little
sore, but okay. I'll turn it back
to you at the studio. This is Cindy
Jones reporting live from ST. PAUL.
EXT. DAN'S HOUSE -- STREET -- MOMENTS LATER
Cindy massages her butt as Jake puts away the camera.
Shutting the van door, they glance toward the house.
CINDY
That man has a serious problem.
JAKE
It's only going to get worse.
CINDY
You got a shot of me landing on my
butt didn't you?
JAKE
Sorry. You want me to call the cops?
CINDY JONES
No, let the Mayor take care of him.
INT. VAL'S APARTMENT -- THURSDAY EVENING
A nicely decorated apartment.
Val sits comfortably on the couch feeding her young baby.
The doorbell rings.
VAL
It's open.
Mary enters, a disheartened look covers her face.
VAL (CONT'D)
I didn't know you were coming over.
You should have called.
MARY
Everything's done by cell phone. I
need face to face time with you.
VAL
Pull up a chair, I'm listening.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
56.
MARY
Dan's having an affair.
VAL
Are you sure?
MARY
I saw them together, he kissed her.
Now he's lying about her.
Val cradles her child, gently placing a bottle in her mouth.
Seconds later a loud buzzer goes off in the kitchen.
VAL
I'm sorry but how can I help. Darn,
I have cookies in the oven. Here,
hold Julie for me.
MARY
But, I'm not good at holding.
VAL
Nonsense, once you hold a baby in
your arms you'll never put her down.
Mary holds Julie as Val disappears into the kitchen. Mary
gazes at Julie's little face, uncertain what to do.
Julie's delighted as her little arms flail away.
She reaches out for Mary's earring.
MARY
No, you're to young for those.
Mary's transformed. She instinctively coddles Julie close
to her, cups the back of her little head with her hand.
MARY (CONT'D)
You have the prettiest smile.
Julie's little smile turns into a stream of baby barf,
covering half of Mary's shirt.
Val comes back into the room.
VAL
I'm sorry, she just finished a bottle.
Now, how can I help you?
Mary vaults to her feet and hands Val her baby in exchange
for a towel. Mary happily wipes away the baby barf.
MARY
Val, something just happened to me.
I, I can't explain it.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
57.
VAL
You don't have to.
MARY
Everything looks so clear to me now.
I knew you could help me.
VAL
It wasn't me, it was you.
Mary gently touches her stomach.
MARY
I could see in Julie's eyes the love,
the closeness that only a mother can
share with her child.
VAL
Every woman has that feeling inside.
It's just waiting to come out.
MARY
You were right, it's in my blood.
Mary gives Val a big hug and kisses the top of Julie's head.
VAL
Are you going to tell him tonight
that he's a father?
Mary heads for the door when she turns for a last word.
MARY
Yeah, I have to talk to him about a
woman and about a baby.
INT. DAN'S HOUSE -- LIVING ROOM -- EVENING
Dan rests on the couch, surrounded by several empty beer
bottles.
He turns over on his side and passes out. The telephone
lays off the hook at the end of the couch.
INT. MARY'S CAR -- MOMENTS LATER
Mary happily dials her cell phone, getting a busy signal.
She drives away smiling a mile wide.
INT. JANET'S CAR -- CITY STREET -- NIGHT
Janet checks her makeup in the rear view mirror. Moments
later she stops at the curb in front of Dan's house.
Janet slides out, wearing a stunningly short dress.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
58.
EXT. DAN'S HOUSE -- FRONT PORCH
Janet knocks hard on the door, gets no response. She tries
the knob, realizes the door is unlocked and peeks inside.
JANET
Hello. Anybody home?
Janet cautiously walks into the house.
She carefully traipses over a pile of junk in the hallway
when her attention is drawn to a lump on the couch.
Dan slowly turns over onto his back. Janet settles at his
side, she leans over him real close.
EXT. DAN'S HOUSE -- DRIVEWAY
Mary pulls up and stops her car. She leers at Janets car
parked at the curb. Mary surveys the damaged front door.
INT. DAN'S HOUSE -- HALLWAY
Mary hears a noise. She walks toward it, reaching the living
room in time to view Janet leaning over Dan on the couch.
JANET
Wake up sunshine.
Dan's groggy as his blurry eyes open to see a woman's face.
DAN
You're here. I knew you would come.
Dan draws Janet into him for a passionate kiss. Mary is
shocked as her hands quickly cover her mouth.
JANET
Wow, that was some kiss.
DAN
I've always loved kissing you.
Mary starts crying. Janet spins to see her. They share a
quick glance. Mary wastes no time in leaving.
As Dan's vision clears, he's stunned to see Janet above him.
He pushes her to her feet as he struggles off the couch.
DAN (CONT'D)
Janet? What are you doing here?
JANET
You invited me over, remember?
DAN
No, I don't remember anything.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
59.
A car door slams from outside. Dan turns to look. He
scrambles to the side window in time to see Mary in her car,
starting up the engine.
DAN (CONT'D)
Oh no, she was here, she saw.
EXT. DAN'S HOUSE -- FRONT YARD
Dan leaps through the broken porch railing and sprints across
the yard. At her car he tries to open her door but it's
locked.
Dan slaps both his hands on her window.
Mary stops her car at the sidewalk. Mary gives Dan a teary
look then slowly rolls down the window.
DAN
Mary, please, I can explain. It's
not what you think.
MARY
You have... lipstick on your face.
You're in love with her?
DAN
No, I'm in love with you.
MARY
But you kissed her, again.
DAN
No, I, I thought I was kissing you.
Janet, overhearing this from the porch, bounces down the
steps, her chest very revealing.
Mary watches her walk toward the car.
MARY
I had something to tell you.
DAN
I'm here. Tell me.
Mary's eyes leave Janet then vacantly look into his eyes.
MARY
I'm... I never want to see you again.
Mary backs out the driveway.
DAN
Mary please, come back.
Dan drops to all fours and cries like a baby.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
60.
Just feet away on the sidewalk, a small man dressed in running
clothes strolls toward them, a camera swings from his neck.
Dan lifts his head, his face filled with a big "why me".
A bright FLASH fills the night sky, followed by several more
in rapid secession. Janet spins quickly to see a cameraman
taking pictures. Janet springs to Dan's aid.
JANET
Get out of here you animal.
She hoists Dan up off the ground, trying to shield him from
the photographer.
INT. DAN'S HOUSE -- LIVING ROOM -- MOMENTS LATER
Dan, seated on the couch, his face buried in his hands.
Janet calmly rests at his side, begins to rub his back.
DAN
My life was going so smoothly. All
of a sudden everything is in the
toilet.
JANET
It can't be all that bad.
DAN
Do you realize what you've done.
Now she thinks I'm having an affair.
JANET
It was just the stupid contest.
DAN
You did this to me for money I don't
even have?
JANET
I'm sorry. Please don't hate me.
DAN
I don't hate you. I just want things
to go back to the way they were.
JANET
You can't go back, only forward.
Dan bounces to his feet, tossing a beer bottle at the wall.
Beer and glass smash and splatter all over the wall.
DAN
The guy on the radio said everything
would change. I thought he was a
fool. Looks like I'm the fool.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
61.
JANET
You used to be confident, never afraid
of anything. You always jumped right
in while everyone else stood by.
DAN
And look what it's gotten me.
JANET
You have a lot to look forward to.
DAN
Like what? The Mayor wants me in
jail. Marlowe wants me dead. Mary
thinks I'm cheating on her. The
only person not mad at me is Norma.
JANET
You're just having a run of bad luck.
DAN
This is way worse. You know I don't
like my picture being taken, yet I'm
all over the television. Then some
jerk pops out of the bushes and snaps
away with a camera.
JANET
Can I tell you what my dad told me?
DAN
What, step in front of a bus.
JANET
No. He told me that every person
has good in them. But sometimes,
the good gets trapped inside and
can't get out.
DAN
There's no good left in me.
JANET
You're full of good, I know it.
DAN
How can I get it to come out?
JANET
If you use the power of your will,
you can reach inside, rip out the
bad and let the good shine through.
DAN
That will never work for me.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
62.
JANET
You'll never know unless you try.
Dan reaches for a framed picture of Mary sitting on the table
next to the couch. He rubs her cheek with his thumb.
DAN
For her I'll try anything.
EXT. MARY'S CAR -- CITY STREET -- NIGHT
Mary drives erratically down the street, weaving over the
center line.
She's wiping tears from her eyes as her car passes Cooper
the cop parked in his squad car.
He's enjoying a tongue full of cream filling from a cupcake.
He sees her car weaving and is instantly in pursuit. Mary's
car is engulfed in red lights as she pulls over to the curb.
Cooper slides out, with his hand he scrapes filling from his
face, than wipes it on his pant leg. Mary watches him in
the side mirror arrive at the door.
MARY
Good evening officer. I'm sorry, I
didn't realize I was speeding.
COOPER
You were weaving all over the road.
MARY
I was reaching for a tissue.
Copper shines his flashlight in her red as rose petal eyes.
COOPER
You crossed over the center line.
Your eyes look a little blood shot.
Have you been drinking tonight?
MARY
No officer, I was crying, not
drinking.
COOPER
I need to see your license Miss.
Mary hands over her license. He slides back to his squad.
Mary attention is drawn to a light from across the street.
She looks deeply at the large NEON sign. Frankie's Saloon.
MARY
Maybe it's time for my first drink.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
63.
Cooper returns to her window, hands back her license.
COOPER
This is a bad stretch of road, lots
of drunks run this street. Pay better
attention. You're free to go.
MARY
I most certainly will. Thank you
officer. Good night.
Cooper leaves. Mary can't take her eyes off the bar. She
drives right into the bar's parking lot.
INT. FRANKIE'S BAR
Hesitating, Mary slowly works her way through the locals.
The bartender is wiping a glass as he observes her walk up
and stop at the row of bar stools.
MARY
I'm sorry, I don't have a reservation.
BARTENDER
A reservation? You don't need one
here. You just have to be thirsty.
Mary cautiously slides her behind onto the bar stool.
MARY
I am a little thirsty.
BARTENDER
Wonderful. What's your poison?
MARY
Poison? Oh, I get it.
BARTENDER
What do you usually drink.
MARY
Nothing. I'm here to have my first
beer. You make the call.
BARTENDER
One lite beer coming up. But first
I need to see some identification.
MARY
Boy, you just turn twenty one and
everyone wants to see your ID.
She hands over her license. He scratches his chin as he
quizzically looks at her and then back at the licence.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
64.
BARTENDER
Unfortunately it's the law. Are you
Dan Delyons, Mary Williams?
MARY
I am.
BARTENDER
Where is he? I thought you two were
real close.
MARY
We were but an old girlfriend worked *
her magic on him.
The bartender pulls a dripping wet bottle of beer from the
cooler and pops it open, placing it right in front of her.
BARTENDER
I'm sorry to hear that. Mary, this
one's on the house. If anyone bothers
you tonight, you let me know.
MARY
Thank you.
He leaves. She stares at the frothy bottle of beer.
She tentatively reaches for the bottle, then surveys the
dimly lit room for any onlookers.
No one's looking her way. Mary takes a sniff of the beer.
The bottle is at her lips when she stops in her tracks and
pushes the bottle away.
With her left hand she reaches down and touches her stomach.
MARY (CONT'D)
I can't drink this crap, it is poison.
I won't harm my baby.
INT. DAN'S HOUSE -- LIVING ROOM
Dan lounges on the couch sucking down a beer.
Janet's long gone. The phone rings. Dan answers it.
EXT. DAN'S HOUSE -- FRONT PORCH
Dan leaps off the porch and into his truck.
He wildly speeds off down the street.
A mini van pulls out right on his tail.
An emblem on the door reads "Metropolitan Press Photographer".
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
65.
INT. PRESS CAR -- CITY STREET
The Photographer from the sidewalk is sitting in the passenger
seat. The woman driving the car is young, energetic.
PHOTOGRAPHER
I saw him through the window, he's
been drinking and now he's driving.
WOMAN DRIVING CAR
You got your camera ready?
PHOTOGRAPHER
Ready to make my first front page.
INT. COP CAR -- CITY STREET -- MOMENTS LATER
Cooper is lounging in his squad car.
He happily stuffs a chocolate cupcake in his mouth.
A call comes across the two way radio.
RADIO
Dispatch to unit 14.
COOPER
Damn it, can't a man finish a lousy
cupcake. 14 here, go ahead.
RADIO
Got a report of an orange pickup
truck headed down 7th. A citizen
called reporting the driver is drunk.
COOPER
Roger dispatch, an orange...
Dan speeds by the squad. Cooper scrambles to start his car.
COOPER (CONT'D)
Pickup. Delyons, I got you now.
INT. DAN'S TRUCK -- CITY STREET
In his rear view mirror Dan sees the flashing lights of the
police car.
The bar is in sight, just half a block away.
Dan doesn't slow down at all, it's full bore straight ahead.
Flying across the parking lot, Dan skids to a stop.
He's out and running toward the front door.
The cop car skids to a stop, just inches behind Dan.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
66.
INT. FRANKIE'S BAR
Dan frantically looks for Mary. He spots her at the bar
pushing away a full bottle of beer.
He bolts to her side.
Cooper crashes the front door, scanning the room for Dan.
COOPER
Delyons. Stop where you are.
Dan, out of breath, looks back at Cooper rushing his way.
Dan reaches out and snatches Marys bottle of beer.
He opens his mouth and dumps it down his throat.
MARY
Daniel?
Five seconds later Cooper tackles Dan to the floor. Mary's
shocked as she watches them wrestle on the floor.
Dan reaches out his free arm as Cooper kneels on his back.
DAN
What are you doing down here?
COOPER
Get your hands behind your back.
MARY
Why are the police after you?
The photographer and the woman enter the bar and immediately
start snapping pictures.
Mary steps back a few feet, but not before a shot from the
photographer catches the three of them together.
COOPER
You're under arrest for drunk driving.
DAN
Drunk driving? I haven't had a drink
until a few seconds ago.
Dan hands to Cooper the now empty beer bottle.
COOPER
Damn it. You might have beaten the
rap on the DWI but fleeing an officer
will still get you arrested.
DAN
Mary, are you drinking?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
67.
MARY
I wanted to have my first beer but I
couldn't drink it because I'm...
Cooper slaps the cuffs on Dan as another flash from the
photographer's camera blinds all three of them.
As his eyes clear, he spots the little man taking pictures.
DAN
Nobody takes my picture, nobody.
PHOTOGRAPHER
You're in public, I can take any...
Dan breaks free and kicks the man in the groin. Dan stands
like a mountain over the little man.
DAN
Snap off a picture of that, asshole.
Cooper physically drags Dan out the door. Mary stands in
shock at what has just happened.
EXT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- POOL -- NIGHT
Mary slowly walks up to the edge of the pool, hesitating for
a moment. She sits down and puts her feet into the water.
She scoops up a small amount of water in her hand. She wets
her face and then her neck.
From behind a bay window, Norma keeps a watchful eye on her.
INT. MAYOR'S HOUSE -- EARLY FRIDAY MORNING
The Mayor angrily opens the front door revealing Jimmy leaning
against the door frame, a desperate look covers his face.
MAYOR
The sun ain't even up yet. You better
have good news to be here this early.
As they slip into the kitchen Jimmy nervously sits at the
table. The Mayor drinks from a huge fancy coffee cup.
JIMMY
John sent a fax to the office last
night. I've been up sense I got it
trying to decide how to tell you.
MAYOR
You have the names of the five
finalists? Hand it over.
Jimmy pulls the fax from his pocket then hesitates a moment
to think about what might happen.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
68.
JIMMY
There's a... tiny problem, sir. -
Could you put down the cup please.
MAYOR
This is my favorite cup and no I
won't put it down. Give me the fax.
Very slowly he hands over the fax.
As the Mayor scans the page, his eyes pop out. His severely
trembling hand causes the coffee to splash onto the floor.
MAYOR (CONT'D)
The last name on this fax. Tell me
this is a typo. Tell me!
JIMMY
I'm sorry, sir. I double, hell I
triple checked it, it's Delyons
alright.
EXT. MAYOR'S HOUSE
A large bay window smashes as the Mayor's coffee cup sails
through it, over patio furniture and into the pool.
INT. MAYORS HOUSE
The Mayor's on top of Jimmy choking the life out of him.
INT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- KITCHEN -- FRIDAY MORNING
Morning sunlight spills through the window. Mary reaches
for the coffee pot.
A knock at the back door draws her attention. She opens it
to view Janet staring back at her.
Mary tries to shut the door but Janet quickly sticks her
foot in, stopping the door.
JANET
Wait, please, we need to talk.
MARY
Talk? You have some nerve coming
here after what you did.
JANET
It doesn't take any nerve to lie to
you. It does take everything a person
has inside to admit the truth though.
MARY
The truth that you're trying to steal
away the man I love.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
69.
Mary walks out, closing the door behind her.
She and Janet come together, a visible tension between them.
MARY (CONT'D)
I saw him. He kissed you.
JANET
He did kiss me, but I swear to you
he thought he was kissing you.
MARY
You're lying.
JANET
I have nothing more to gain by lying.
MARY
Yes you do, his love.
JANET
I had my chance years ago but I blew
it. You don't know how lucky you
are to have that man love you.
Mary pauses several seconds as she realizes the truth.
MARY
You're not having an affair then?
JANET
We're not. He needs you now more
than ever. Don't let your love for
him end because of my stupidity.
From behind, Marlowe strolls out the door and picks up the
folded up morning paper from the deck.
He quizzically looks Janet up and down.
MARLOWE
Morning baby, who's this?
Mary pivots back to Janet, indecision in her face.
MARY
Daddy, this is Janet. A friend of,
a friend of mine.
MARLOWE
Hello Janet. Baby, I hope you're
feeling better this morning.
MARY
Yes, I feel much better now.
He kisses Mary on the cheek then disappears inside.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
70.
Mary and Janet look each other up and down.
JANET
There's one more thing. Daniel has
been chosen as a contestant in
tomorrows hole-in-one contest.
MARY
Contest? But he's in jail.
INT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- KITCHEN
Marlowe rests comfortably at the table, unfolding the paper.
His chin drops to the floor.
A large picture covers the front page showing Dan, Officer
Cooper and Mary.
The caption reads "Weed Man Pops Up Again."
It goes on to say "Dan Delyons - Who Assaulted Mayor's
Assistant and Television Reporter Last Night Arrested for
Fleeing Police and Assaulting Newspaper Photographer."
MARLOWE
NORMA!
Norma joins him at the kitchen table.
NORMA
Why are you yelling?
He hands her the paper. A large picture of Dan and Mary
greets her stunned eyes.
NORMA (CONT'D)
He's on the front... wait a minute,
that's our Mary.
They stare at each other in disbelief.
INT. CITY JAIL -- INTERROGATION ROOM -- DAY
Dan, plastered on a rickety old chair, looks up as the Mayor
and several other men walk into the room.
They all circle like buzzards over a dead carcass.
The Mayor pulls up to the table straight across from Dan.
MAYOR
I thought I was done dealing with
you. Looks like I was wrong.
DAN
I never touched that damn
Photographer.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
71.
MAYOR
Unfortunately that's not why we're
here. These men are members of the
"Make a Wish Foundation". We've put
together a proposition for you.
DAN
Not interested.
The Mayor's pissed. He clinches both fists.
MAYOR
I haven't even... they've decided to
offer you cash to withdraw from the
hole-in-one contest.
DAN
How much cash we talking about?
The Mayor takes out a wad of bills, tossing it on the table.
It rolls up just inches from Dan, who stares at it wide eyed.
MAYOR
Two grand, no questions asked. All
you have to do is withdraw your name.
DAN
Two grand? Not even close. Make it
twenty-five and you got a deal.
The leader of the group of men seated at the table, a very
well dressed man named JACK, breaks into the conversation.
JACK
Twenty five. Mr. Delyons, that's
out of the question. Our take for
the charity is barely that amount.
DAN
Keep your two grand. I feel lucky.
I think I can do this.
MAYOR
Get this through your thick head.
We don't want you in our contest.
DAN
Want's got nothing to do with it.
I'm one of the lucky five, gentlemen.
The Mayor retrieves a piece of paper from his pocket.
MAYOR
There are some pretty serious charges
pending against you. You sure that's
the way you want it?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
72.
DAN
Are you saying you'll drop the charges
against me if I take the cash.
JACK
All of them. You'll be a free man
with two grand in your pocket.
DAN
Let's see, two grand or a million.
You really must think I'm stupid.
The men at the table all gather themselves into the corner.
Standing arm in arm they whisper between themselves.
The Mayor, still seated at the table, looks from the men
back to stare coldly at Dan.
MAYOR
You owe me one bay window.
DAN
What? I don't owe you squat.
MAYOR
Go on, take the money, disappear.
DAN
Disappear! You can't be serious.
This contest is about me, not about
you and these fricken old geezers.
Dan pushes the roll of cash at the Mayor, who tightly squeezes
the roll. All the men return and settle at the table.
MAYOR
Is that what you think this contest
is about... you? I should shoot you
where you sit for sheer stupidity.
JACK
We've come to a decision. If you
show up at the contest you can
participate. If you fail to show up
someone else will take your spot.
MAYOR
What! You can't do this.
JACK
We have to follow the rules.
DAN
Yea Mayor, follow the rules.
MAYOR
Jack, think about what you're doing.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
73.
JACK
I need to speak to you, alone.
They all scrutinize Dan. He smiles as they all amble out.
EXT. INTERROGATION ROOM -- HALLWAY
The Mayor and Jack stroll down a long hallway.
MAYOR
I know this guy. He's bad news.
JACK
Calm down, the rules say if he doesn't
show up we can choose someone else.
MAYOR
I know the rules. Wait just a minute,
I've got an idea. If he can't make
bail, he can't make the contest.
JACK
Our problem are solved with a simple
phone call.
The Mayor smiles, puts his arm around Jack as they walk off.
INT. JOHN SWEENEY'S OFFICE -- AFTERNOON
Janet's feverishly digging through a desk drawer when a woman
appears at her desk. She's dressed in a suit. Her name is
Amy Parks.
JANET
Good afternoon, can I help you?
AMY
Is John in? I'm Amy Parks with
Premium Insurance Company.
JANET
I'm sorry, he's out of the office.
AMY
Did he leave a check with you?
JANET
No, he didn't leave any check.
AMY
That's not good. Tell him I'll send
a messenger over later to pick up
the premium check.
JANET
Premium check? For the contest? I
thought he paid it last week?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
74.
AMY
He hasn't. Advise him that I need
that check by 5:00 p.m. or there's
no coverage and he will be liable
for any prize money awarded.
JANET
He'll definitely want to hear that.
EXT. JOHN'S OFFICE -- HALLWAY
John pops out of an elevator and heads toward his office
when he's startled to see Amy exit into the hallway. He
quickly hides in a broom closet.
With the door cracked open he observes Amy enter the elevator.
He slithers out of the closet, smiling like a skunk.
INT. JOHN'S OFFICE
John sneaks in and sniffs the air, then rubs his hands.
JOHN
Money money money mon...ey. God do
I love that song.
JANET
Amy, from the insurance company just
left. Didn't you see her?
JOHN
No. Are you busy tomorrow? I need
you to fill in for Tom. He quit.
JANET
You want me at the contest tomorrow?
JOHN
You're the only one left I can trust.
JANET
Okay. Oh, Amy said she needs a check
to cover the prize money for...
JOHN
She's mistaken. The checks already
been mailed. You can leave early,
I'll handle everything from here.
John slides into his office. Janet flips on her computer
to, "CHECKING ACCOUNT".
The curser runs down searching for an out going check but
finds none. Surprised, she falls back in her chair.
JANET
He's keeping the money for himself.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
75.
INT. CITY JAIL -- CELL BLOCK -- LATE AFTERNOON
A door opens from the outer hallway.
Dan catches Janet walking in. He bolts to her at the bars.
DAN
Any word on my bail?
JANET,
You might want to sit down for this.
DAN
Sit down? How much is it?
JANET
Five hundred thousand dollars.
DAN
Five hundred what?
JANET
You need fifty thousand in cash to
get out this time.
DAN
I don't even have fifty bucks let
alone fifty grand cash.
JANET
I don't have that kind of money. Do
you know anyone who does.
DAN
I do. Unfortunately I don't think
she'll ever talk to me again.
JANET
Don't underestimate her. Under that
shy outer shell lies a strong woman
who loves you more than anything.
DAN
I know that but do you think she'll
be able to get me the hell out of
here?
JANET
We'll know by tomorrow. I told her
why I did what I did to you.
DAN
Did she believe you?
JANET
She did. The rest will be up to you
my friend.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
76.
INT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- STUDY -- SATURDAY MORNING
Mary urgently walks into the room. Her father perched at
his desk lifts his head, following her up to where he sits.
MARLOWE
You're up early.
MARY
I need some money, Daddy.
MARLOWE
A little shopping planned for today?
MARY
No more shopping. I need fifty
thousand dollars in cash.
MARLOWE
Fifty thousand. What for?
MARY
So he can participate in the contest.
MARLOWE
Contest? Not with my money.
Marlowe slams his fist on the desk top. Mary's unrelenting.
MARY
I have money in the bank. You just...
MARLOWE
That money's for your future, not to
bail a criminal out of jail.
MARY
He's not a criminal. I love him
Daddy, I do.
MARLOWE
You don't know what love is yet.
He's playing a cruel trick on you.
Now he's after my money.
MARY
He doesn't want your money. He wants
me Daddy, he wants me.
Marlowe angrily hurls some papers into his briefcase.
MARLOWE
If that's true then why are you asking
me for fifty thousand dollars.
Mary breaks down as everything hits her at once. Her eyes
quickly scan her father as she starts to cry.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
77.
Turning, she runs out the room right past Norma, into her
bedroom, slamming the door behind her.
Norma reaches the bedroom door. She leans close. She lifts
her hand to knock but stops when she hears crying from inside.
INT. STUDY -- MOMENTS LATER
Marlowe roosts at his desk as Norma storms into the room.
NORMA
What did you say to her?
MARLOWE
He's got her so messed up, now she
wants bail money so he can enter
some stupid ass contest.
NORMA
I'm going to talk and you're going
to sit there and listen.
MARLOWE
We've been down this road already.
NORMA
Not this road.
MARLOWE
I'm beginning to wonder about you.
NORMA
I've kept something hidden from you.
I didn't have the courage to...
MARLOWE
Courage to what... tell me you've
been hiding a nervous break down.
NORMA
How dare you say that to me.
MARLOWE
I've noticed that you're always on
his side no matter what he's done.
NORMA
What he's done is given her a second
chance to live her life. You'd see
that if you'd just open your eyes.
MARLOWE
Bullshit! He's been nothing but a
negative influence on her from day
one.
Norma peers out the window as her shoulders drop to the floor.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
78.
NORMA
Negative influence? You have no
idea what he's done for her... done
for you.
MARLOWE
I know what I'll do if I see him
again.
NORMA
Beg him to forgive you?
MARLOWE
What in the hell is wrong with you?
NORMA
Have you ever asked Mary where it
was that the two of them first met?
MARLOWE
That doesn't matter to me. I won't
let that scumbag ruin the rest of
her life.
Norma walks to a book case and pulls out a book. From inside
she retrieves a small key.
NORMA
Daniel, ruining the rest of her life?
MARLOWE
You better wake up real soon and
decide just who's side you're on!
She unlocks a small black box on the book shelf. She digs
around a moment, then pulls out a video cassette tape.
NORMA
You sit there like a king, all high
and mighty on your throne, yet the
man you hold in such contempt is
more worthy of your throne than you.
She thrusts the tape at him.
MARLOWE
What am I supposed to do with that?
NORMA
Watch it! Like I have a hundred
times.
MARLOWE
You're certifiable.
Marlowe snatches the tape from her hand. She instantly covers
her face with both her hands.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
79.
Holding the tape, Marlowe marches over to the television and
fires up the VCR. He angrily pushes the play button and
drops his butt into a chair in front of the TV.
On pops the SECURITY tape of their residence split into four
screens, front door, side of the house, pool and back patio
entrance to the house.
In the lower left corner is a date (7-24-03) No one is in
any of these four screens. Marlowe's confused.
NORMA
I'm so sorry. I wasn't there for
her. But he was. Thank God he was.
Suddenly, in the pool part of the video, Mary appears. She's
noticeably limping as she walks to the pool.
She removes her robe, revealing her swimming suit. She pauses
for a moment to vigorously rub her thighs. Then, without
delay, she dives into the pool.
In the front door part of the video screen, an orange truck
drives up and parks at the front door.
Daniel Delyons gets out, carrying a box toward the front
door. It reads "WILLIAMS DISTRIBUTION MAIL ROOM" on it.
Marlowe grabs the TV with both hands for a closer look.
MARLOWE
What the hell's going on here?
FLASH BACK TO FRONT DOOR MARY'S HOUSE 3 YEARS EARLIER.
Dan rings the doorbell. Waiting nervously, he looks around
at the surroundings.
In the pool, Mary is swimming in the deep end. Suddenly she
gets severe cramps in her legs. First her right leg, then
her left leg.
She swallows water and begins to choke. Dan, not getting a
response at the door, decides to walk around to the side.
Pushing on a locked wooden gate, he looks around, decides to
leave, when a blood curdling scream pierces the air. Mary,
just above the water, gasping for breath.
As her head goes under further. Her arms can't keep her
afloat.
Dan, startled by the screams, drops the box he's holding.
He runs back to the gate, shakes it but it won't open.
He looks at the top of the gate but he's deterred by it's
height. He backs up a few feet, leans over like a line-backer
and breaks through the gate, knocking it from its hinges.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
80.
Dan looks across the yard to the deep end of the pool and
spots a pair of flailing arms sticking out of the water. He
runs at full speed and dives into the water.
Like a torpedo, he reaches her just as her body goes limp,
her arms no longer flailing.
She has one final breath in her lungs, a split second from
drowning, when her body is rocketed out of the water. As
she cracks the surface she gasps for air.
She discharges the water from her lungs, coughing all over
Dan. He swims her to the shallow end of the pool. As he
stands up in the water she grabs a hold of him.
DAN
Whoa, are you okay?
MARY
My legs I... I couldn't keep up.
Who are you?
DAN
I'm Daniel. Your knight in shining
armor.
There's a spark between them. She lightly chuckles.
MARY
I'm Mary. I'm so glad you...
Dan, not thinking, lets go of her. With her legs still
cramped, she can't stand and falls backward into the water.
Her head submerges for just a second when Dan grabs her around
the waist and pulls her back up to him.
Her eyes widen with pure HORROR at going under water again.
She lunges toward him, wrapping her arms around him.
MARY (CONT'D)
Please, don't let go of me.
DAN
I got you, I won't let go.
He picks her up, carrying her to the pool edge and sets her
on the pool deck, her FEET still dangling in the water.
DAN (CONT'D)
Where's it hurt?
MARY
My thighs. Where did you come from?
DAN
The front yard.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
81.
MARY
No, I mean, why are you here?
DAN
Come rain, sleet or sunshine. A
mailman must make his deliveries.
MARY
Mailman? You're from the mailroom?
DAN
Yea, you sure made my first delivery
exciting. How are you feeling?
MARY
Scared.
DAN
You're out of the water, you're legs
look fine. I think you'll be okay.
MARY
I thought I was going to die.
DAN
Die? Not today, not while I'm around.
MARY
I, I don't know how to thank you.
Dan reaches up and tugs on her chin.
DAN
How about starting with a smile.
Mary's eyes open wide as at last she smiles wide.
DAN (CONT'D)
Do you believe in fate? I had planned
to stop for a burger on the way over
here but didn't when I realized I
was flat broke.
MARY
What else could it be but fate.
Dan pops out of the water, now sitting just to her side.
Dan reaches up and softly caresses her cheek. Dan's slightly
blinded by the sun. He covers his eyes.
DAN
See, you're feeling better already.
It's smokin' hot out today. Got
anything cold to drink around here?
MARY
I'm sure I can find you something.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
82.
Mary struggles to her feet. Dan vaults to his feet, taking
her under the arm. They slowly walk toward the house.
Along the way they stare into each other's eyes. She stops
him at the doorway, spins in his arms, their faces just inches
apart.
She pushes him up against the DOOR FRAME. She kisses him.
Not just a peck on the cheek but with unbridled passion.
She pulls back, her face glowing with joy. Dan is shocked,
he can barely speak.
DAN
Whoa, why did you kiss me?
MARY
A kiss is the least I can do for my
knight in shinning armor.
DAN
Mary, please don't tell anyone about
this. Our little secret, okay?
MARY
Not even my parents? Why?
DAN
I know what happened and so do you.
I just don't need the attention this
would bring.
MARY
I'll keep it a secret as long as you
want me to. Now, how about I make
us some lunch.
DAN
Lunch would be great but I really
think I should get back to work.
MARY
Leave that to me, I know your boss.
Mary grabs him by the arm and drags him into the house.
FADE BACK TO PRESENT TIME
INT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- STUDY
Marlowe sits frozen, staring at the now empty TV screen.
He's in shock, tears welling in his eyes. Norma steps up
from behind, smoothly rubbing his shoulders.
NORMA
He did a good job of ruining her
life, didn't he?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
83.
MARLOWE
Why did you keep this tape from me?
NORMA
I wanted Mary to decide for herself
who she loved, not her father.
Marlowe's face reveals the truth he must now confront.
MARLOWE
Does she really love him?
NORMA
You know the answer. He may not be
the man you wanted. That choice was
never yours to make.
MARLOWE
Three whole years he knew what he'd
done. He never used it against me.
NORMA
Ask yourself, is he worth helping?
Your only daughter thinks so.
MARLOWE
I have money in the safe, take it...
Marlowe and Norma quickly turn and face the window as they
hear Mary squeal out of the driveway in her car.
INT. CITY JAIL -- CELL BLOCK -- SATURDAY AFTERNOON
Dan sits melancholy on a cell bed, looking up at the clock
on the wall. It clicks over to 1:15 p.m.
A guard wanders in, opening the cell door and shouts at Dan.
GUARD
Lets go, you made bail... again.
DAN
What! I don't believe it. Who?
Dan flies out into the waiting room. He scans the room for
Janet but she's not there.
He crashes through the front door and spots Norma leaning
against a Lincoln Town Car.
EXT. CITY JAIL -- STREET
DAN
Norma, did you do this?
NORMA
No, Marlowe did it.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
84.
DAN
Why would he bail me out?
NORMA
Mary asked him to help you. He'd
like to speak to you.
Dan instantly grabs Norma's hand to look at her watch.
DAN
Later. I got like 30 minutes to
find this golf course. Your car?
She holds out the car keys. Dan snatches the keys from her
hand, then hugs her tight. They both scramble into the car.
EXT. GOLF COURSE -- TEE AREA -- AFTERNOON
(THE FOLLOWING SCENES TAKE PLACE ON AND AROUND A TEE BOX AT
A GOLF COURSE AND INSIDE A LARGE TENT NEXT TO THE TEE AREA.)
Large signs fill the area promoting the contest. The Mayor
and Officer Cooper pause next to a row of young CHILDREN.
The Mayor caresses the back of a young girl in a wheelchair
as Officer Cooper leans over and KISSES her on the cheek.
Jimmy quickly walks up to the Mayor.
JIMMY
Delyons was just released on bail.
The Mayor's head just about snaps off as he turns to view a
large clock above the tent opening.
It reads 1:53 p.m. In the front row stands Karen and little
Bobby. Behind them stand Mary and Val. A few feet down
stands Billy and Alvin, all waiting for the contest to begin.
Mary gazes down at little Bobby in front of her.
He smiles and waves at her. Mary smiles and waves back.
VAL
Why are we here? You know he can't
make bail?
MARY
I'm still hoping for a miracle.
Val reaches out and takes hold of Mary's hand.
VAL
You're amazing. I don't think I've
ever seen that kind of love before.
MARY
I can't hide the way I feel.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
85.
VAL
Then you've forgiven him for what
he's done to you?
MARY
Yes, I have.
VAL
Then the miracle has already happened.
To the side Billy and Alvin pull BEERS from their pockets.
They both strain their necks searching for Dan.
BILLY
Any sign of him?
ALVIN
No. I can't believe the town idiot's
got a shot at a million bucks.
BILLY
Not if I can help it.
They both laugh hard. John strolls past them toward the
Mayor, Janet stuck right to his side.
Billy and Alvin's eyes are glued to Janet as she passes.
INT. NORMA'S CAR -- CITY STREET
Dan's driving quickly as Norma searches his face, looking
for the simple truth.
DAN
Is something wrong?
NORMA
Mary is so full of life when she's
with you. Do you love her?
DAN
What? Of course I do.
NORMA
I saw you kiss another woman. Are
you having an affair?
DAN
Absolutely not. I would never hurt
her like that.
NORMA
She deserves the truth from you.
DAN
If I could ever get her alone I'd
tell her the truth.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
86.
EXT. GOLF COURSE -- TEE AREA
John arrogantly struts past an impatiently waiting Mayor.
Janet, at his side, is a little nervous at being out front.
The contestants are waiting patiently. John does a quick
head count.
MAYOR
Where the hell have you been?
JOHN
Don't start with me. Only four?
Who are we missing?
JANET
Daniel Delyons hasn't arrived yet.
JOHN
And where is Mr. Delyons?
The Mayor's frustrated. He hooks John by the shoulder,
pointing to the clock. It reads 1:55 p.m.
MAYOR
His time is up. He ain't gonna show.
JOHN
According to the rules, he...
MAYOR
To hell with the rules. I order you
to get this contest started.
JOHN
Don't tell me what to do!
EXT. GOLF COURSE -- PARKING LOT
Norma's car screeches to a stop, Dan and Norma exit the car.
Dan's totally confused. Norma spots the tent, she points.
NORMA
Over there.
DAN
How can I ever thank you.
NORMA
You already have. Good luck Daniel.
DAN
I'll need more than luck. I've never
golfed before.
Dan quickly gives Norma a monster hug.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
87.
Dan sprints away at full speed toward the tent.
NORMA
I believe you, Mary will too.
EXT. TEE AREA
The crowd begins to stir as a figure is seen running toward
the tee. The Mayor begins to panic.
MAYOR
It can't be him. I'm begging you
John, please start this contest.
John quickly checks the clock, it reads 1:59 p.m. John smiles
ear to ear as he follows Dan running up to the table.
JOHN
I can't do that. He still has one
minute to show me his ticket stub.
Billy and Alvin view Dan running. They both smile wide.
Mary and Val turn to the fairway.
VAL
Is that Dan running this way?
MARY
It, it is him. How did he?
Dan struggles the last few yards. The crowd clears a path
for him to the table. The clock turns to 2:00 p.m. Dan is
winded as he reaches the table and falls to one knee.
Dan unfolds his wallet, dumping it on the table, searching
frantically for the ticket stub.
He picks up the picture of him and Mary. Stuck to the back
of it is the ticket stub. He hands it to John.
DAN
Did I... make it?
John surveys the ticket, then up to the clock. It reads
2:00 p.m., a SECOND later the clock turns over to 2:01 p.m.
JOHN
Yes, with one lucky second to spare.
The Mayor and his friends are horrified as they witness the
media swarm toward Dan.
Dan's momentary joy is shattered as the media confront him.
DAN
Yes. I made it... What the, get
those cameras out of my face.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
88.
CINDY
Mr. Delyons. Do you have anything
to say about the last few days?
Dan snatches the microphone from Cindy, then swings to coldly
stare at the Mayor.
DAN
I do. I was fairly picked as a
contestant. No bribes, politicians
or media dirt-bags will stop me.
Dan zings Cindy the microphone, then shuffles over to the
other contestants.
Dan selects a club from a rack. Leaning on the club, he
notices Billy standing across from the tee.
Billy waves, then lifts a can of beer and drinks down the
whole can.
Dan's eyes pop open as he licks his lips.
Billy revolves around, pulls a small bottle of whiskey from
his pocket and pours it into the empty beer can.
ALVIN
Have you lost your mind?
BILLY
You know he can't resist a beer.
When he drinks from this can he can
kiss any chance at the money goodbye.
Turning, Billy hides the can with whiskey behind his back.
Alvin pops open a full can and hands it to Billy.
Billy motions to Dan, seeing if he wants a drink.
They both smile. A voice comes over the loud SPEAKER.
JOHN
Good afternoon. Welcome to the 5th
annual "Hole in One Contest" sponsored
by "MAKE A WISH MINNESOTA". Everyone
has now arrived, so let's get started.
A petite woman walks out and places a ball onto a tee.
JOHN (CONT'D)
Quiet please. She's about to hit
for one million dollars.
A hush comes over the crowd as the woman takes a feeble swing,
sending the ball off to the right.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
89.
Several people dive for cover as the ball slices past them.
JOHN (CONT'D)
That was a good try but I'm afraid
you hit it towards the wrong green.
Okay, next contestant, you're up.
Dan, standing at the end of the line of contestants, slowly
moves toward Billy.
The next contestant places a ball on the tee. Cindy, watching
Dan, notices him moving.
CINDY
Jake, take a look at Delyons. Is he
doing what I think he's doing?
JAKE
Once a lush, always a lush.
CINDY
Keep that camera on him, no matter
what happens at the tee.
JAKE
I got him. Hit me with garbage will
you.
JOHN
You folks in the front there might
want to step back a bit. Contestant
number two you're up. Good luck.
Now just five feet from Billy, Dan watches as the woman swings
and pops the golf ball straight up in the air.
As the crowd follows the ball, Dan makes a dash for the beer.
DAN
Hey Billy.
BILLY
Hey loser.
DAN
I really could use a drink. You got
another beer?
BILLY
Nope, this is my last one.
DAN
Last one, damn. Tell you what?
I'll give you a twenty for a drink.
Dan pulls out the last bill in his now EMPTY wallet, a twenty,
and dangles it in Billy's face.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
90.
BILLY
Okay, but just a drink.
Dan grabs the beer and drinks down the whole can. Cindy and
Jake quietly sneak through the crowd towards Dan.
BILLY (CONT'D)
Hey. That's more than a drink.
Billy reaches out and struggles with Dan over the beer can.
Dan finally gives up the can. Billy flips over the can to
view nothing but a drip of foam fall out.
INT. TENT
The Mayor and friends are watching the contest on a large
TV. It's stone cold quiet in the tent, they're all in shock.
ANCHOR WOMAN ON TV.
As you can plainly see, Mr. Delyons,
a suspect and a contestant is at
this moment drinking on the sidelines.
The Mayor drops his head, bouncing it off the table. He
suddenly jumps to his feet and grabs Jimmy, rustling inside
his jacket.
MAYOR
Where is it? Where's your gun?
JIMMY
My gun? Why do you want.
MAYOR
I'm gonna shoot that S.O.B.
Several men converge on the Mayor. They subdue him in his
attempt to get Jimmy's gun.
JIMMY
Sir, think about what you're saying.
The Mayor calms down as the men let go. The Mayor bolts for
the tent opening. His friends tackle him to the ground.
EXT. TEE AREA
JOHN
That was a terrible shot. Come on
people this ain't mini-golf here.
Now, contestant number three come on
up and take your shot.
The third contestant walks up and nervously places the ball
on the tee. She swings and completely misses the ball.
Totally embarrassed at her attempt, she turns to walk away.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
91.
JOHN (CONT'D)
Where are you going? Get your butt
back here and hit the ball this time.
Billy's mad as hell and tosses the empty can at Dans head.
BILLY
You dick, you drank the whole can.
DAN
There wasn't enough beer in that can
to wet the back of a stamp.
Billy pulls out the whiskey filled can from behind his back.
BILLY
Maybe so, but there's enough in this
can to wet a million stamps.
DAN
You dick, you had another beer the
whole time.
BILLY
Yea, fat chance of you getting a
drink of it though.
A sly grin crosses Billy's face as he spots the TV camera.
DAN
That twenty will buy you a whole
damn case.
BILLY
Does it look like I'm at a liquor
store? Now, watch closely as I suck
down my last can of ice cold suds.
Billy slowly lifts the can up close to his mouth when Dan
snatches the can from his hand and proceeds to pound it down.
At the tee, the woman contestant swings, feebly hitting the
ball 50 feet down the fairway.
She lowers her head in humiliation when the air is pierced
by Dan yelling out.
DAN
Ah, holy shit.
Billy starts laughing as Alvin slaps Dan on the back.
Dan drops the can to the ground, grabs Billy by the shirt.
DAN (CONT'D)
What was in that can?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
92.
ALVIN
Double shot of straight whiskey man.
DAN
I told you I don't drink that crap.
BILLY
Getting evens a bitch ain't it?
Let's see you make the shot now.
DAN
I'm gonna kick your ass.
Dan pounces on top of Billy, hurling punches to the head.
Cindy and Jake break through with the camera.
INT. TENT
The Mayor, being held down on the ground, watches Dan and
Billy fight on the television.
MAYOR
Get off of me. I have to kill him.
JACK
Don't do it, he's not worth it.
EXT. TEE AREA
Two large male security guards arrive and break up the fight.
Dan looks up to eye several TV cameras trained on him.
John sees all the commotion and marches over to the crowd.
Visibly upset, he questions Cindy.
JOHN
Move aside, let me through. What's
the problem here?
CINDY
They were fighting.
JOHN
Fighting? Why were they...
John's stunned to see Dan being held back by security.
JOHN (CONT'D)
Delyons, you got exactly ONE second
to get back in line or you lose your
chance to win a million dollars.
With out a seconds delay, Dan hurries back to the tee.
Billy is straightening his hair when the security guard grabs
him around the neck.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
93.
SECURITY GUARD
If I come back here again, you're
leaving on a stretcher.
BILLY
On a stretcher?
The guard thumps Billy's chest, then leaves.
BILLY (CONT'D)
Ow!
Dan leans hard against his golf club, losing his balance and
almost falling.
The next male contestant stands at the tee, takes a practice
swing and steps up to the ball. -BAM- a smooth swing.
The ball rockets down the fairway as everyone watches.
JOHN
He's got a real good shot here.
All look except Dan. He woozily shakes his head.
Down range the ball lands on the green.
The crowd is excited at the shot, then disappointment fills
the air as the ball rolls wide of the hole.
John wipes the sweat from his brow, then shakes the hand of
the fourth contestant.
Dan gazes over to the crowd, noticing that most of the people
are pointing at him and starting to laugh.
John catches Dan stumbling towards the tee.
An air of confidence overtakes him.
JOHN (CONT'D)
Mr. Delyons, it all comes down to
you. Go ahead, get a ball.
From his pocket, Dan pulls little Bobby's ORANGE golf ball.
At the tee, the Whiskey has made him lightheaded.
He looks right at the tee but there are now several to choose
from. He tries to tee up the ball. He picks the wrong tee.
INT. TENT
The Mayor, now on his feet, wipes off his clothes.
MAYOR
Stand back! I'm fine now. I know
it can't get any worse than this.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
94.
EXT. TEE AREA
Dan loses his balance and falls flat on his face.
The ball rolls from his hand toward the edge of the tee.
The crowd goes crazy with laughter.
INT. FRANKIE'S BAR
Every person in the bar starts hysterically laughing as they
point at the large screen TV.
Except the bartender, he just shakes his head in amazement.
INT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- DEN
Marlowe stares in disbelief at what's happening to Dan on
TV.
He closes his eyes and shakes his head "no".
EXT. GOLF COURSE -- TEE AREA
From the back row Mary takes a step toward Dan when Val grabs
her arm, holding her back.
Dan lifts his head off the ground, revealing some dirt and
grass stuck to his nose.
His blurry eyes look in vain for his golf ball. Karen leans
down and whispers in little Bobby's ear.
KAREN
He needs your help. You know what
to do.
Bobby breaks free and scoops up the ball.
The crowd, the media, everyone watches little Bobby perfectly
place the ball on the tee. He taps Dan on the shoulder.
BOBBY
That's your magic ball.
Dan slowly gets to his feet, rubs Bobby's head, then guides
him away.
Dazed, he scans the crowd.
Everyone's still laughing at him, except Janet.
She's pulling at her chest, throwing the bad to the ground
and stomping it with her foot.
Dan stands straight up and arches out his chest. With his
hand he rips at his chest, throwing the bad to the ground.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
95.
He does it again, then a third time.
With his foot he stomps the ground.
VAL
What's he doing?
MARY
I, I don't know.
INT. TENT
The Mayor nervously paces back and forth as all the members
of Make A Wish stand watching the large television.
MAYOR
All I wanted was to raise money for
MY children. Thirty thousand lousy
dollars. Nothing he can do will
ever make up for this humiliation.
EXT. TEE AREA
Dan gives Janet a nod of the head.
He limbers up and stands at the tee. His stance is a little
awkward, his hands holding the club the wrong way.
Dan stares straight at the golf ball.
JOHN
Ladies and gentlemen, let's all give
Mr. Delyons a round of applause.
But no one claps. The laughter grows to an all out hysteria
among the crowd, except for three concerned women.
JANET
Give it your best shot.
MARY
I can't watch.
VAL
It'll all be over soon.
Dan slides the club up to the ball.
DAN
There is good in me. I know it.
He swings awkwardly, but hits the ball flush. It looks good.
Everyone's heads snap as they watch the ball sail away.
Dan tries to watch but the whiskey has done it's job. He
falls flat on his back.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
96.
On the green, his ball hits 30 feet from the hole, bounces
and rolls right toward the flag.
Surprise overwhelms the crowd as the orange ball disappears
into the CUP for a million dollar hole-in-one.
It's deafly quiet as the crowd is stunned beyond belief.
Holding the microphone to his mouth, John is speechless.
Val quickly grabs Mary by the arm.
MARY
What happened?
VAL
Oh my god. It went in the hole.
Across the tee area Janet is crying.
She walks to Dan laying on the ground.
The security guards help Dan to his feet.
Billy and Alvin share a look of disbelief.
Words finally come out of John's mouth.
JOHN
Mon...ey.
INT. FRANKIE'S BAR
Everyone in the bar has stopped laughing.
Their jaws drop to the floor at what they just witnessed.
The bartender thrusts his fist into the air in celebration.
INT. TENT
Every person inside the tent turns to face the Mayor.
MAYOR
What are you all looking at?
JACK
He just made a hole-in-one.
MAYOR
What have I done to deserve this?
JIMMY
Do you still want my gun, sir?
Every person angrily turns to face Jimmy after his words.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
97.
EXT. TEE AREA
Dan is being held up by the two large security guards.
He looks dazed but awake. John looks seriously ill. He
runs off, quickly handing the microphone over to Janet.
From the back row Mary and Val make their way toward Dan.
VAL
Come on, now's the time.
MARY
I don't think I should.
VAL
Don't be silly. Remember, he's your
knight in shinning armor.
MARY
I can't believe you remembered that.
Dan still hasn't realized what he's done.
A crowd of reporters gather around him and begin shouting.
CINDY
Mr. Delyons, what do you have to say
about what you just did?
DAN
I ah, ah, what?
CINDY
What will you do with all that money?
DAN
Ah, if I won I'd buy a kiss.
Mary, now just feet behind Dan, stops dead in her tracks.
The press is shocked, they start yelling. Dan's confused.
CINDY
A kiss. Who would you kiss for a
million dollars Mr. Delyons?
DAN
I'd give everything for just one
kiss from Ashley Judd.
CINDY
You'd give all the money you just
won to Ashley Judd for a single kiss?
DAN
I would, I ah. Money I won?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
98.
Janet hikes up and presents Dan the million dollar check.
JANET
I've been asked to take over for
John. He's not feeling so well.
Mary's dejected, head down she walks away.
INT. PORTABLE TOILET -- BEHIND TENT
John looks sick, he vomits profusely into the plastic toilet.
EXT. TEE AREA
Janet pulls a black magic marker from her pocket.
Dan holds the check in his hands.
Janet proceeds to write his name next to.
"PAY TO THE ORDER OF" on the million dollar cardboard check.
JANET
Congratulations Mr. Delyons, you're
the first winner we've had in the
Million Dollar Hole-in-One Contest.
Total shock overwhelms Dan. He shakes his head trying to
gather his bearings.
He takes in a deep breath, then slaps himself in the face.
DAN
You've got to be kidding.
JANET
No, this money is all yours.
Janet hugs him. Dan looks over her shoulder at the crowd as
most of the people are now lightly clapping.
His eyes stop at the front row where several young CHILDREN
are seated.
They don't appear healthy, as they all look back at him with
smiles on their faces, except for ONE.
A wheelchair bound girl, 13 years old, with long blonde hair
catches his eye.
She struggles with all her strength to break a smile.
After agonizing seconds, finally, a weak smile crosses her
face.
But as the pain in her body overtakes her, the smile drops
down to a frown.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
99.
Dan can't take his eyes off her.
Janet whispers into his ear.
JANET (CONT'D)
The good in you rose to the surface.
What you choose to do now will make
you who you are.
From the back Val observes Mary walk away. Val's had it
with Dan, she stomps towards him.
The Mayor, streaking out of the tent, makes a bee line for
Dan but first he has to make it past Val. He doesn't.
-BAM- Val knocks the Mayor to the ground.
Her purse falls into her hand, she tightly clinches the strap.
A look of relief crosses Dan's face.
A second later the black purse smashes off the side of Dan's
head, sending him crashing to the grass.
Janet looks on in astonishment. The two security guards
back away from Val as she stares them down.
From the ground Dan tries to get up when, -BAM- right across
the top of his head with a second shot from the purse.
He seeks cover under the big check but a third swing crushes
the middle of the check, just an inch from his nose.
Dan hurls the check to the side and scrambles to his feet.
DAN
Damn it Val, why'd you hit me?
VAL
I should break your neck for what
you just did.
She takes one more swing at him but he ducks the purse.
DAN
I didn't do anything to you.
VAL
You did it to Mary. She was here
watching you and you do this to her.
DAN
Mary's here? Where is she?
VAL
She ran away after you said you wanted
to kiss yet another woman.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
100.
DAN
I did, but that was before I knew I
had won the money.
VAL
You're no knight in shining armor.
You're nothing more than a drunk,
who barely qualifies as a man.
The crowd goes deafly quiet as all eyes fall upon Val.
VAL (CONT'D)
Your BABY she's carrying, I hope you
never see it.
DAN
Baby? Is Mary gonna have a baby?
VAL
Take the money and your stupid
childish fantasies and go to hell.
Val bluffs with her purse, then kicks Dan in the leg.
Dan falls to one knee in pain as he watches Val walk away.
In comes the Mayor and takes the microphone away from Janet.
DAN
She never told me about a baby.
INT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- DEN
Marlowe's laying flat on the floor, he reaches for his throat.
MARLOWE
I can't breath. I can't breath.
EXT. GOLF COURSE -- TEE AREA
The Mayor grabs Dan. They glare at each other a moment.
The Mayor turns him toward the crowd.
MAYOR
First a millionaire and now a father.
I don't know whether to hug you or
have you arrested. Why don't you
tell us how it feels to be both.
The Mayor reluctantly hands the microphone to Dan.
Dans eyes fall back upon the wheelchair bound young girl.
Her head has slumped lower. She slowly lifts it, staring in
pain back at Dan.
As their eyes meet, a chill rocks his spine.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
101.
His focus rises to a sign high above the girl's head, that
reads: "With your help we can make every wish come true."
Dan stares in silence at this beautiful young girl.
DAN (V.O.)
Ten times? Leroy, you feelin' okay.
You just wasted a hundred bucks.
LEROY (V.O.)
It's the best money I've ever spent.
Besides, it makes me feel good to
know that even that SMALL amount can
help a child to live a last wish.
Dan's face is transformed. He finally connects all the dots.
He turns to the Mayor and nods his head up and down.
DAN
You were right. This never should
have been about me.
INT. MARY'S CAR -- PARKING LOT
Mary's in tears as she pounds the steering wheel in
frustration.
MARY
I can't take it any more, I can't.
EXT. TEE AREA
Dan stares intensely at the check in his hands. He lifts
his head revealing watery eyes.
DAN
I had no idea what this was all about.
He looks back at the little girl in time to see her head
fall slowly, chin resting on her chest. Dan's voice cracks.
DAN (CONT'D)
I do now. A few days ago I asked
God for a wish that would change my
life. A simple kiss was all I wanted.
Dan looks up into the sky for a few seconds.
DAN (CONT'D)
I didn't think you were listening.
Dan drops his head and quickly grabs the magic marker from
Janet's pocket. He turns the check around to the back side
and begins writing.
DAN (CONT'D)
For the first time in my life I know
what to do. What I have to do.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
102.
The crowd stirs as Dan hands the check over to the Mayor,
who is thoroughly shocked. Janet nods her head in agreement.
DAN (CONT'D)
I'm sure the Mayor will know what to
do with this.
Dan hands the microphone to the Mayor, then shakes his hand.
MAYOR
Man, was I ever wrong about you.
Dan walks a straight line to the young girl. The Mayor holds
the check up high over his head, turning it side to side for
everyone to see what's written:
PAY TO THE ORDER OF: MAKE A WISH FOR THE CHILDREN
It's signed by Dan Delyons. Dan kneels next to the young
girl. The media swarms them. Dan gently lifts her head.
Her pain filled eyes open wide.
DAN
Would you mind if I changed my wish
to you. I'm sure Ashley wouldn't
mind a bit.
He gently swipes her cheek with his thumb. She reveals a
smile that would melt any man's heart.
DAN (CONT'D)
Has anyone ever told you, you have
the prettiest smile.
He leans in and kisses her tenderly on the cheek.
That was "A SIMPLE KISS".
The crowd is hushed when a lone clap is heard that instantly
grows into a thunderous ovation.
EXT. PORTABLE TOILET BEHIND TENT -- MOMENTS LATER
John peeks out the door, planning for a quick escape, when
he's completely surrounded by hundreds of onlookers.
MAYOR
Going some where thief?
JOHN
No. I ah, was taking a. This has
got to be a mistake.
MAYOR
And you made it. What's the matter,
John? Fall face first off that high
horse of yours?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
103.
John turns white as a ghost, sinks to his knees and starts
to vomit. The Mayor drops to one knee next to John.
MAYOR (CONT'D)
I can count to a million, can you?
JOHN
It's impossible, how could he make...
MAYOR
The shot? After what he's been
through, he's the only one who could
have.
JOHN
One lousy second changed everything.
MAYOR
It sure did. You were right, scumbag.
Paperwork didn't bring you down. A
Dan Delyon did.
Cooper forcefully pulls John off the ground and cuffs him.
MAYOR (CONT'D)
Put him in my limo. We'll be stopping
at his bank to make a withdrawal.
Two remaining cops escort John to the Mayors limo. The Mayor
turns in time to notice Dan walking by himself across the
fairway. He promptly grabs Cooper by the arm.
MAYOR (CONT'D)
Go get him. Take him anywhere he
needs to go so he can find Mary.
COOPER
It'll be my pleasure, sir.
EXT. GOLF COURSE -- FAIRWAY
Dan appears satisfied as he treks across the fairway. He
hears a voice from behind. It's Cooper racing his way.
COOPER
Delyons! Stop where you are.
Old habits die hard as Dan runs off with Cooper on his heels.
EXT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- GARAGE -- AFTERNOON
Mary, silently sits in her car, staring at the steering wheel.
A knock on the side window startles her. Marlowe opens the
door. Taking her hand, he helps her out.
MARLOWE
Baby, I'm so glad you're home.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
104.
MARY
Daddy, I was wrong about him.
MARLOWE
I'm the one who's wrong. I've said
and done some awful things to him.
Mary's mood instantly changes as she shuts the car door.
MARY
What? You've never liked him, ever.
MARLOWE
That was before I knew what he had
done for you in the pool.
Marys stunned, she falls back against the car door.
MARY
The pool? Oh my god, Daddy. I'm so
sorry, I, I should have told you.
MARLOWE
It was your Mother who showed me.
MARY
Mom showed you? But how could...
MARLOWE
The security cameras caught everything
that happened.
MARY
Cameras? Oh my god, Mom knew what
happened and she never said anything.
MARLOWE
Is there something else you're hiding?
MARY
I don't know what you mean?
MARLOWE
Believe me, it's not a secret anymore.
MARY
I was afraid to tell you. I didn't
know how you'd react. Promise me
you won't hurt him.
MARLOWE
I promise.
MARY
I'm pregnant. Daniel is the father.
They both hesitate a moment, then hug each other.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
105.
INT. COP CAR -- CITY STREET -- AFTERNOON
Officer Cooper driving, Dan fixed comfortably in the front
seat wears an astonished look on his face.
DAN
Never thought I'd be riding up front.
COOPER
It's been one of those days.
DAN
Can I ask you something? You won't
laugh at me, will you?
COOPER
No, I won't laugh.
DAN
Do you think I'd make a good father?
COOPER
I think you'll do just fine.
DAN
Coop, the pain that young girl was
feeling broke my heart.
COOPER
Her name is Anna. She's my niece.
DAN
Your niece? How old is she?
COOPER
She just turned thirteen. She's
fought a courageous battled with
leukemia for over a year now.
DAN
Leukemia? Is she dying?
COOPER
She won't make it to Christmas.
DAN
Then we'll bring Christmas to her.
She asked for a wish. What is it?
COOPER
She'd like to take her family and a
few friends to Disney Land. She
wants a picture of herself with Mickey
Mouse to take with her to heaven.
DAN
A picture... to heaven?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
106.
COOPER
She's quit the photographer. You
should see the walls of her bedroom.
I think a picture would bring her
the most joy.
DAN
Then a picture's what she'll get.
COOPER
Why are you doing this?
DAN
What do you mean?
COOPER
Why not a third or even half? Why
give it all away.
DAN
I could never look at another child
again without thinking that I had a
chance to help but turned away from
them for my own selfish reasons.
COOPER
Wow, was I ever wrong about you.
DAN
Something happened to me today, I
can't even begin to explain it.
COOPER
It's called becoming a man.
The police car turns into Mary's driveway and stops.
Cooper holds out his hand.
Dan stares at it for a second, then tightly shakes it like a
good friend would do.
DAN
I hope so. Say hi to Anna for me.
Make sure she gets that PICTURE.
EXT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- DRIVEWAY
Marlowe, standing by the front door, observes Dan get out
and slowly make his way toward him.
They come together as Marlowe places a hand on Dan's shoulder.
Dan looks but makes no attempt to remove it.
DAN
I don't know why you did it but,
thanks for bailing me out.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
107.
MARLOWE
I did it because I love my daughter.
You have to understand why I was so
hard on you.
DAN
I understand everything now. You're
her father, you're protecting her.
MARLOWE
It's what I had to do. It's what
you'll have to do.
Dan takes in a deep breath and slowly exhales.
DAN
You saw what happened on TV?
MARLOWE
I did.
DAN
I assume you know about the baby?
MARLOWE
I do.
DAN
I love your daughter, sir. If you'll
let me, I'd like to spend the rest
of my life with her.
Marlowe struggles to keep his emotions inside.
MARLOWE
Promise me that you'll protect her
and that your family will always
come first, before anything else.
DAN
I promise you, nothing will matter
more to me.
Marlowe nods his head agreeing. Dan turns to walk into the
house when Marlowe tug on his shirt stopping him from leaving.
MARLOWE
Why didn't you tell me about saving
my daughters life.
Dan is definitely shocked at what Marlowe has said.
DAN
How did you find out? Did Mary tell
you what happened?
Marlowe points to the CAMERA over the front door.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
108.
MARLOWE
We have them all around the house.
Norma showed me a video tape of what
you did for my little girl.
DAN
A video? I knew she knew what
happened.
MARLOWE
The other day you gave me a clue. I
just wasn't listening close enough
to hear it.
DAN
You weren't the only one who wasn't
listening close enough.
MARLOWE
I think you know where to find her.
Dan quickly walks away as Norma drives into the driveway.
She stops at the garage where Marlowe meets her. She gets
out of the car, when Marlowe takes hold of both her hands.
NORMA
Was that, Daniel?
MARLOWE
Yes. Norma, please tell me the truth.
Have I been a good husband and father?
NORMA
You did a good job. You helped me
raise a kind and loving young woman.
MARLOWE
Honey, can you possibly forgive me
for how I've treated you?
NORMA
I already have.
EXT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- SWIMMING POOL
Dan hesitates a moment at the patio door.
He lightly rubs the door frame. He turns to view Mary sitting
at the pool's edge. Her feet are in the water as she rubs
her thighs.
Dan slowly makes his way toward the pool. He collides with
a patio chair making a slight noise.
MARY
Daddy, I don't know what to say to
him any more.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
109.
Dan's face reveals that this is his moment of truth.
He places his hand on her shoulder.
She reaches up and cups his hand.
DAN
Ask him if he still loves you and
he'll say, "more than life itself".
Mary's surprised, she springs to her feet.
MARY
What are you doing here?
DAN
I should have been here yesterday.
I should have been here everyday.
MARY
You got past Daddy?
DAN
Yea, imagine that.
Daniel leans over and straightens out a chair at the table.
DAN (CONT'D)
We have an understanding?
MARY
Understanding?
DAN
We both want the same thing. To
love and protect you.
MARY
You both have a funny way of showing
it.
DAN
I'm sorry. The last four day have
not been my best.
MARY
They know about the pool.
DAN
Yea, your Dad thanked me. Your Mom
has for three years.
Dan turns around to look at the pool. Mary looks down at
the waters edge.
MARY
I'm so tired of keeping secrets.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
110.
DAN
So am I. Do you remember what you
said to me that day in the water?
MARY
I remember everything.
DAN
You asked me not to let go of you.
Dan spins around to face Mary.
DAN (CONT'D)
I'll never forget the way you looked
at me. I felt important, like I was
needed, wanted, a man you could depend
on. Now, I feel I've let you down.
Mary cover her mouth, amazed at what she's hearing.
MARY
I see the same man in front of me.
DAN
You still love me after everything?
MARY
I've never stopped loving you.
DAN
I'm so glad to hear that.
Dan strolls toward her with his arms open.
She gives him the stare that only a woman can give.
MARY
Not so fast. It's my turn to talk.
DAN
I'm listening.
MARY
What about the contest and what you
said about paying this Ashley woman
for a kiss?
DAN
That was a silly childish fantasy.
It's gone now.
MARY
And what about Janet? Are you in
love with her?
Mary folds her arms, waiting for the right answer.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
111.
DAN
No. Janet's my friend, nothing more.
MARY
You're not going to kiss her again?
DAN
Never again.
Dan rubs the side of his head.
DAN (CONT'D)
Speaking of friends. Your friend
Val, knocked the crap out of me with
that big purse of hers.
MARY
She hit you with her purse? Are you
okay? You're not hurt?
Dan shakes his head "yes" as he touches the side of his head.
DAN
I'm fine. She told me your secret.
MARY
Secret?
DAN
The secret you've been trying to
tell me for four days.
MARY
What did she tell you?
DAN
You're going to have our baby.
Mary's shoulders drop as a great weight has been lifted.
MARY
I wanted to tell you myself but every
time I tried to.
DAN
It's doesn't matter who told me.
All that matters to me is you.
A tear begins its life in the corner of her eye.
MARY
And our baby? You're not going to
leave us, now that you know?
DAN
I'll never leave you.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
112.
MARY
What are your plans for the Million
dollars?
Dan starts laughing. Mary's confused.
DAN
My plans? That's right, you did see
what happened?
MARY
I'm afraid to ask.
DAN
Don't get mad, but after you left
I... kissed another woman.
MARY
You did what? Who was she?
Dan back tracks around a table and stands next to the pool.
DAN
If only you could have seen her.
She wasn't Ashley Judd. She was a
beautiful young angel waiting for
her wings.
MARY
And you gave her a Million dollars?
DAN
Her, and all her friends.
Mary finally realizes what he's trying to say.
MARY
Make a wish?
DAN
Hers, and mine.
MARY
I believe you.
DAN
As of this moment, I don't have a
penny to my name.
MARY
You have everything I'll ever need.
What more could I ask for?
Dan hesitates a moment, takes in a deep breath.
DAN
I could ask you to marry me.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
113.
MARY
Married? Are you sure you're ready?
Dan smiles a mile wide as he touches his heart with his hand.
DAN
If I'm not ready now, I never will
be.
Mary is overwhelmed with emotion.
Dan, standing just inches from the deep end of the pool,
holds open his arms.
Mary doesn't budge an inch, she looks down to the water at
his feet. The smile slowly vanishes from her face.
MARY
I, can you come this way?
Dan's dumbfounded for a moment, when it hits him right between
the eyes why she won't come to him. Dan glares at the water,
then back at her.
He intensely looks at his watch. He starts to disrobe, his
shirt, shoes, tossing his wallet to the pool deck. Mary's
confused at his actions.
MARY (CONT'D)
What are you doing?
Dan, now in just his jeans, tests the water with his toe.
DAN
With everything that's happened I
forgot the date today.
MARY
It's the 24th.
DAN
That's right, today's July 24th.
Three years to the day I meet you.
Right here in this pool.
MARY
I was afraid you had forgotten.
DAN
I'll never forget this day again.
This is our day, Mary. Good things
happen to me, to us on this day.
I'm going to marry you on this day.
MARY
Our wedding, next July?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
114.
DAN
On the 24th. I know the other secret
you've been hiding from everyone.
MARY
I'm not hiding anymore secrets.
DAN
It must drive you crazy to sit at
the edge of the pool and not have
the courage to dive in.
Dan dives into the water, surfacing half way across in waist
deep water. Mary watches intensely.
MARY
Please, don't make me do it.
Panic overtakes her. She promptly walks back and forth.
DAN
I can't make you do anything.
She leans slightly toward the water, her body wanting but
the fear is too much. She stops herself.
INT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- STUDY
Norma and Marlowe stand watching from a window. Norma wears
a look of hope on her face. Marlowes confused.
NORMA
Come on baby, you can do it.
MARLOWE
What's he doing? She needs my help.
NORMA
No. If she can overcome her fear,
she'll never be afraid of the water
again.
MARLOWE
Why do you put up with me?
NORMA
When you find the right man, you'll
do almost anything not to lose him.
MARLOWE
I'm the one who's certifiable, for
not telling you every single day
just how much I love you.
Norma smiles a mile wide. Three years of anguish have been
erased from her face. They come together, hug, then kiss.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
115.
EXT. WILLIAMS HOUSE -- POOL
Mary walks to the edge and looks at Dan, then at the water.
She takes a stride backward. Her whole body starts shaking.
DAN
You've done it a thousand times in
your mind. Remember how good it
felt to simply dive in.
MARY
That was before I almost died.
DAN
You didn't die, you lived. I'm asking
you, to please reach inside and pull
out the fear. There's no need to be
afraid any more.
Mary moves to the rim of the pool, her body lurching, her
eyes tearing up.
She reaches up, pulls on her chest and tosses her fear to
the ground. But the shaking doesn't stop.
She does it again. This time the shaking partially subsides.
She looks out to Dan, who's holding his arms wide open.
She pulls at her chest a third time, tosses the fear to the
ground, stomps it with her foot, killing it.
The shaking ceases. She lifts her hands, they're still.
In a graceful motion she dives in, swimming under water all
the way to Dan.
She surfaces and instantly hooks him around the chest.
Her eyes bulge with happiness. She loosens her grip on him.
Now standing alone in waste deep water, she falls backwards,
her head submerging for the longest two seconds of her life.
She bursts back out, not with a look of terror but smiling a
mile wide.
MARY
I can't believe I did it.
DAN
And none to soon. Who else is going
to teach our son... or daughter to
swim, me?
Her shy exterior is gone as she kicks back her shoulders and
heads right into Dans arms.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
116.
MARY
Do you still want to hold me?
DAN
Both of you.
Dan gives her a monster hug. Cheek to cheek he whispers
into her ear.
DAN (CONT'D)
Who needs a poster on the wall when
I can kiss the most beautiful woman
in the world.
MARY
Everyday.
DAN
I love you.
MARY
Thank you, for everything.
If there ever was a forever kiss, it happens now.
As they part the picture freezes showing Dan and Mary smiling
a mile wide.
As the credits roll, several still pictures pop on the screen
showing young, terminally ill children in far off places,
their wishes answered.
The final PICTURE fills the entire screen.
It's ANNA, MICKEY MOUSE and DANIEL together, all smiling a
mile wide.
THE END: FADE OUT:
Return to SimplyScripts.com