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-------------------------





"Copyright (c) 2010 This screenplaymay not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of the author." 



I

GOT

YOU


BY

MUONEKE CHIDIEBERE



OVER, then there are simple words in white lettering:

I GOT YOU

We, hear, D banj, "fall in love"……


INT. JOHN'S HOUSE___BIG WEEDING DAY

In Mr. John Collins's big, comfortable sitting room.
There is music and dancing and laughing and tables covered with wine and food. 

There is also a table with some wedding presents upon it.
A wedding has been in progress.
 
It is wedding of Mr. John Collins and Miss Mary Jackson. 
John is a husky man, around thirty or thirty-two 
and Mary is a preened, slender, beautiful woman in her late twenties. 

There are buzzes of conversation in the sitting room. 
The bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jackson are gleaming 
and conversing to each other about the marriage ceremony. 
They are later joined by bride's cousin, Nora.

Mr. Jackson is gentle-looking, dark-skinned man in his fifties.


MR. JACKSON
I am so happy that our daughter is finally married.


Mrs. Jackson is a beautiful, middle age woman.


MRS. JACKSON
(Wipes a joyful tear from her eye; stares at the couple)
It is indeed a good wedding. They are both pretty.


Miss Nora walks up to Mr. Jackson and Mrs. Jackson. 
She is obviously excited.




NORA
(Staring at the couple; smiling)
They look as beautiful as a picture.


A server man comes to them passes saucer of glasses of wine to them.


NORA
(Sipping the wine)
Hmmmm…. taste great.


John darts his sight and sees Adam standing at the balcony.

 
JOHN
(To Mary)
Can I speak to Adam at the balcony? 

MARY
Okay.


John strolls to the Balcony


EX. ON THE BALCONY____CONTINOUS___SUNSET

John walks to the balcony.
Adam sees him.
Adam draws a plastic smile in his face

ADAM
(Raises his glass of wine slightly high)
Nice wedding, John. The wine is wonderful.

JOHN
 Does it?


Adam nods and smiles.


JOHN
Aren't you considering getting married?

ADAM
(Waves a hand)
Marriage isn't for me, Johnny.

JOHN
You're joking, aren't you?

ADAM
Getting married is like living with Hay fever, you know—

JOHN
Marriage is nice, Adam.


A call comes from my the main room


WOMAN's VOICE
John! Wedding portrait!!

JOHN
(Hollers back)
Okay, I am coming!
(To Adam)
Let's go and take a snap.


ADAM
(Sipping his wine and stares at the sky)
Don't worry about me, Johnny. Wedding pictures makes me insecure.


JOHN
(Pulling Adam's hand gently)
Come on. It can't.


Adam and John strolls into the main room.


ADAM
(To John)
Most people think marriage is a good thing, but it enslaves men with a single ring.


John laughs.


JOHN
Marriage is fun…it's like living in Oasis of love or something like that—

ADAM
 ...nothing scares me like getting married.


There is a long whistle in the room.


PHOTOGRAPHER
Everybody gather around the married couple.


Everybody shuffles and gathers around the married couple, John and Mary gaily.


PHOTOGRAPHER
(With his camera)
Okay, this perfect!
(Clicks his camera)



INT ADAM'S APARTMENT____MORNING

It's evening; Adam is sitting on his long, sitting room couch watching basketball. 
It's a very comfortable room in the house. 
His door bell RINGS.
Adam stands up and walks to the door and opens the door.

ADAM
(Very surprised)
Mama! Good morning!


Mrs. Eze, Adam's mother enters.
She is a stout, gravelling voice, domineering woman in fifties.
She carries a luggage bag.


MRS. EZE
Adam.


Adam quickly helps his mom with her bag.


ADAM
Please come in? Come in……


Mrs. Eze nods.


ADAM
What brings you to Lagos?


Mrs. Eze ignores the question
Adam leads his mother into the apartment.


MRS. Eze
No work today?

ADAM
Today is Saturday, mama.

MRS. Eze
Oh...


Mrs. Eze sits on the couch.
Adam sits beside his mother.


MRS. EZE
I was terribly bored in Asaba.

ADAM
 ....Bored? But I send you a lot of money, Mom.

MRS. EZE
But monies can't make grand children. Can they?

ADAM
(Grinning)
But it can make you very happy, mama.

MRS. EZE
(A scowl builds on her face quickly)
Haven't you considered having kids?

ADAM
Now?

MRS. EZE
Yes, son

ADAM
NO!

MRS. EZE
You need a wife, because you need someone to rescue you.

ADAM
Rescue me? Do I look lost?

MRS. EZE
Yes. Grown unmarried men are like lost boats abandoned in sea.
(She looks at Adam warily)
Have you been eating? You look skinny like a half baked skeleton.
(Caresses his neck)
And you neck so thin like a crane.

ADAM
Mama…

MRS. EZE
 ....I am serious. You need to get married as soon as possible. You need a woman to take care of you…

ADAM
But I have women…Ladies that I…..I…I

MRS. EZE
Please don't tell me you have been sleeping around because I raised you as a Christian.

ADAM
Sorry, mama.


Mrs. Eze stands up and walks to window
She looks out of the window.


MRS. EZE
How old are you this year?

ADAM
(Mumbles)
Hmm

MRS. EZE
(Turns and stares at Adam)
Don't lie to me; I guess you forgot that I'm your mother.


Adam is embarrassed and scratches the back of his head.


ADAM
(Speaks slowly)
Thirty

MRS. EZE
At that age, your late father had you. Do you want me to get a wife for you?

ADAM
(Waves a hand)
Oh, don't worry about that.
(Changes the topic discussion quickly)
So how is uncle Pius doing in Asaba?

MRS. EZE
Your late father's brother?

ADAM
Yes

MRS. EZE
He's always tired and quiet.

ADAM
He's getting old, I guess?

MRS. EZE
No, he is always drunk and whenever, he's drunk he blames himself tiredly for his misfortunes.

ADAM
Blames himself, how? Is it because he refused to go to college?

MRS. EZE
No, he said God is punishing him because he didn't pay his tithes in church.

ADAM
Oh.
(Tiny pause)
How long would you be staying, because I hope you will be staying for a long time?

MRS. EZE
One week.

ADAM 
Mama, let me show you the visitor's room and make dinner quickly.


Adam leads and Mrs. Eze fellows. 
They both walk out of the sitting room.


INT. JOHN'S BEDROOM____MORNING

Lettering writes below the screen "After three weeks"
In the bedroom, ANGLE on, John is getting ready to go work. 
He is trying to choose the best shirt to wear to work. 
It is the first time; he is going to work, since his wedding.  
He is on a white T-shirt and trousers and standing close to the ward robe.
His wife, Mary, enters the bedroom.
Mary stands and leans at the door.


MARY
Getting ready for work, dear?

JOHN
(Glances at Mary)
Yes.

MARY
I think you should try the blue one.

JOHN
(Holds a blue shirt slightly high)
This one?

MARY
Yes, blue is magnificent.


John tries on a blue shirt.


MARY
When would you buy me the car you promised me before our wedding?

JOHN
(Doesn't look at her as he wears the blue shirt)
Which one?

MARY
 ....Mercedes Jeep?

JOHN
Come on, sweet heart. We just got back from Dubai.

MARY
...but you promised?

JOHN
 Mercedes Jeep cost two million naira! The price is outrageous…


Mary strolls close to John and sits on the bed.


MARY
But that's the same car my dad bought me after my graduation.

JOHN
(Mildly)
So what happened to it?

MARY
Remember I told you that it was hijacked and stolen.

JOHN
But think of it, Mary two million for a car—

MARY
(Speaks in a persuasive voice)
But you promised me?

JOHN
Yes, I know, but the price is outrageous.

MARY
How am I going to trust you?

JOHN
Baby, you will.

MARY
....but a promise should be kept and done

JOHN
We need to be prudent. Sorry for promising and failing.


Mary stands up from the bed and storms out of the bedroom.
John tries calling her back.


JOHN
Sweetheart, I will get you a different car or something close…..Mary!


No response.


JOHN
(CONT'D)
………Mary!


No response.



INT. G.M ADVERTISING, CO. LTD___DAY

A dark corona salon pulls up, and Adam comes out from the car and enters the building. 
The building is an imposing building in Lagos, with a broad, large sign: "G.M ADVERTISING CO. LTD."


EX. G.M. ADVERTISING, CO. OFFICES_____CONTINOUS

As John walks we can hear his footsteps. 
He exchanges mutual "how-do-you-do" and greetings with other employees and colleagues. 
His fellow employees congratulate him in informal ways and handshakes. 


INT. ADAM'S OFFICE IN G.M ADVERTISING, CO. LTD

It is modern and well organized office. Adam re-adjusted his tie and glances at his watch. 
He is obviously concerned about something. 
He rummages the desk of his office for a file.
There is a knock on the door of his office.
Adam darts his sight at the door.


ADAM
Who? Come in the door isn't locked? 


The door is opened widely. Its john.
John walks in calmly.


JOHN
Hello, Adam.


Adam lifts his gaze up and sees John.
He becomes suddenly excited.


ADAM
Wow, John! The new GROOM!


Adam shoots up immediately.
Adam and John shake hands informally.


JOHN
So what are you doing?

ADAM
Looking for a file for our boss


Adam suddenly looks at John carefully and sees John's blue shirt isn't sleekly ironed, and his tie is sagging.


ADAM
Your tie sagging and your shirt isn't smoothly straightened.

JOHN
Do I look bad?

ADAM
You look like you worked for PHCN during your Honeymoon, did you?

JOHN
No, does my shirt look that bad?
	
ADAM	
Of course, as if you were deported from Palestine last night, what happened?

JOHN
(Tiny pause; speaks weakly)
Oh, I had a little argument with my wife this morning.

ADAM
Seem like marriage has blown you down!

JOHN
Blown me down? But as my best friend what is your advice.

ADAM
Get her a bible—

JOHN
I beg your pardon?

ADAM
Get her a bible, bibles are the main reason priests in monastery never leave. 
They are stuck to the bible.

JOHN
(Scoffing)
Bible...Does that make sense to you?


John furrows his brow.


ADAM
Or when you get home, you say to your wife these exact words…

JOHN
Which words?

ADAM
"Your lips cover me kisses and your love is better than wine…"

JOHN
YOU ARE INSANE!


Adam guffaws loudly


ADAM
 I was just kidding……this scenario between you and Mary is normal. 
And moreover, she loves you very much.


There is a knock on the door.  
Adam stops talking. 
Adam and John stare at the direction of the door.


ADAM
(Loudly) 
Come in!


The door is opened. 
Agatha shoves her head into the door and peeps with her eyes. 
She ambles in.
Agatha is dark-skinned, preened, formally dressed woman.


AGATHA 
Adam, it's time.


JOHN
(Quickly)
 For what?


Agatha sees John and she grins at him delightfully.


AGATHA
John! Welcome back!


JOHN
Thanks, Agatha.


Agatha glances at Adam quickly.


AGATHA
The meeting is about to start.

ADAM
We will be in the meeting soon.  



EXT. G.M ADVERTISING CO. LTD'S CONFERENCE ROOM

A meeting is going and everybody is seated. 
All senior employees are all sitting around in a circle 
and looking fixedly at their director, 
Mr. James Olabode, he is a man of commanding physique and captivating aura.



MR. JAMES
(Gruffly voice, looks at John)
Mr. John welcome back


Mr. John smiles and nods at Mr. James.
Mr. James continued:


MR. JAMES
With exception of Steve who sustained 
a fracture on his leg I believe all my employees are here.
(Tiny pause)
Thank you all for your contributions 
these past weeks all your ideas 
and efforts are appreciated in working toward 
our collective goal of moving this great company forward. 
This is the first meeting of the month 
and we all come together as usual to air views, 
and analyze how we can provide better services to our customers
 and boost our revenue more. 
Anyone who has ideas on how to boost our revenue in advertising world
 in Nigeria or abroad should please enlighten us.


Mr. James makes a hand gesture and ceases talking.


AGATHA
(Speaks first) 
Thank you sir, 
according to my research 
and finding from various reliable sources which told me 
that Ovatine drinks Plc. want to change their advert for their drinks, 
because the old one is now obsolete .
 I suggest we should lobby quickly as soon as possible.


Amaka, the company's secretary, jots down quickly


MR. JAMES
 ...that's good idea. Anybody else?


Mr. Ojo, a small, slender, bald man is the next to speak


MR. OJO
 I also heard through a friend who works at Close up that the company 
undertaking their yearly adverts surcharges them a lot 
and Close up wants another good, 
but cheap alternative……..


Amaka jots down again.


MR JAMES
 Okay...but that would be complicated….Anybody else?

JOHN
 During my break, a friend of mine 
who works in Nigeria breweries called 
and told me that their company wants to advertise a new brand of one of their products….


Amaka jots down again.


MR. JAMES
Okay……….. 
(Glances at Adam)
Anything to say, Mr. Adam Eze?

ADAM
 Uh, um, that exact friend, 
John is talking about discussed the issue of advertising 
the new drink with John and I……..so we shall get back to him and finalize…..

MR. JAMES
Thank you all for your contributions .


EXT. AFTER THE MEETING__OUTSIDE THE CONFERENCE ROOM___CONTINOUS

John is standing beside the receptionist desk waiting for Adam. 
Some of his fellow workers walk up to him and they exchange mutual how-do-you-do.
Adam is standing a few miles from John and talking to Agatha. 
But of them are smiling and their eyes gleaming. 
Adam and Agatha hug each other. 
Agatha does a "call me gesture" to Adam, smiles and walks away.


ADAM
 (Walking to John; smiling)
 Johnny....

JOHN 
Whats up with you and Agatha now?

ADAM
 What?

JOHN 
Do you have any rapport with her?

ADAM
Oh, she likes me and I like her, too.

JOHN
 You and ladies, how do you do it?

ADAM 
Do what...?

JOHN
To make the ladies clamor and flutter around you like leaves.

ADAM
 Oh, I stretch the truth a little bit.

JOHN
You stretch the truth a little bit?


Adam gloats proudly.


ADAM
Just stretch the truth a little and the ladies are cheap around like chips.

JOHN
 Don't you know meaning of love, uh?

ADAM
Love? Ho, love! I make it with ladies and never talk or discuss the ladies with my friends. 
Have I ever discussed ladies I have had sex with you?

JOHN
 I didn't ask you that. I will teach you what love means today.

ADAM
Teach me love! how?

JOHN
 We are going to visit Steve in the hospital.

ADAM
Steve?

JOHN
 ....Yes.


John pulls Adams hands.


ADAM
No….no….


MATCH CUT TO:

IN HOSPITAL___LATER THAT DAY
The doors swing open. 
Adam and John walk abreast each other.
John is carrying a basket containing provisions. 
In front of them are paramedics wheeling an old man in the hallway of hospital.
Adam is staring at the old man lying hopelessly 


ADAM
Johnny, do you know the difference between the poor and the rich in Nigeria?


John glances at the old man, too.


ADAM
What's the difference?

ADAM
 The Rich families in Nigeria are opportune to see doctors when they are sick….

JOHN 
And poor?

ADAM
Oh, they lay on their beds close their eyes and pray to God.


John titters gently.
John looks around and sees the receptionist desk. 


JOHN
(To Adam)
 Let me inquire from the receptionist the room Steve is admitted into.


Adam sees a passing by nurse and leers at her and smiles.


ADAM
(Smiling mischievously)
Let me inquire if that nurse is still single.


John shakes his head and walks to the receptionist desk.
 Adam swaggers close to Nurse.


ADAM
 (Grinning at the nurse) 
Hello, DEAR.

NURSE
 Hello. How may I help you, sir?

ADAM 
(Speaking in a sweet tone) 
In many ways, I was told an angel works as a nurse here.

NURSE
 (Listening keenly) 
Eh.

ADAM
 And she has the sexiest eyes in the planet right now….

NURSE
 And?

ADAM
She is like a distant cousin of Omotola.

NURSE
 And who is she?

ADAM
(Grinning at the nurse)
 You, of course! You are as sexy as a FISH...

NURSE 
(Obviously irritated) 
I am sexy as fish?

ADAM
 And you are also magically DELICIOUS.

NURSE
(Expressionlessly)
 Sir, you know I am very busy.

ADAM
(Still grinning)
Yes, I know that.

NURSE
 And I don't have time to spare.

ADAM
(Nodding gently) 
And?

NURSE 
I am ready to help you.

ADAM
 (Nodding and grinning)
Oh, yes. I am really in need of your help indeed.

NURSE
 I will talk to the doctor.

ADAM
(A scowl builds up in his face)
Why?

NURSE
So that he will admit you quickly because….

ADAM
(Scowling) 
Because?

NURSE
 Because I perceive that you are slightly emotionally disturbed. 
I am helping you, SIR.

ADAM
 (Scowling; speaks in a subdued voice) 
What?

NURSE
I am trying to help you, sir. You need to be admitted into a ward, sir.

ADAM 
(Scowling) 
Oh, I don't need that help right now.

NURSE
 Okay then. I will have to leave you then.

ADAM
 I mistook you for different person. 
MISTAKEN IDENTITY, you know.

NURSE
Okay, then. Excuse me.


The Nurses strolls away from Adam coldly.
John walks up to Adam and sees the Nurse walking away and Adam scowling.
John glances at the nurse walking away and then at Adam


JOHN
 Did she say "no" to you?

ADAM
Nurses are naturally unfriendly.

JOHN
 "Unfriendly" because she rejected your proposal, uh?

ADAM
(Waves his hand) 
 "Unfriendly" because they are into doctors.

JOHN
That's a lie. She didn't fancy you.


Adam does an ‘AHEM' and changes the topic of discussion immediately. 


ADAM
So which is Steve admitted into?


John points at the doorway.


JOHN
Down the hallway


EXT. HOSPITAL¬¬_____CONTINOUS
John sees the room and knocks at the door.


MAN'S VOICE
Open...The door is open.


John turns the handle of the door and opens the door
Adam and John walk in.
Steve is lying on the bed, with his left, injured, leg hanging on a pole.


JOHN
 Hello, Steve.


Adam waves a hand toward Steve who is lying on the bed. 


ADAM 
Steve, how are you doing?

STEVE
(Lying on the bed)
I am doing fine, now. 

JOHN
(To Steve) 
When are you going to be discharged?


Steve Looks at John


STEVE
Next week.

JOHN
 But I hope the nurses and doctors are treating 
and accommodating you well?

STEVE
Oh, yes they are doing their best, especially the nurses.

ADAM 
The hospital nurses?


Steve glances at Adam.


STEVE
Yes, they are extremely nice.

ADAM
(Sarcastically) 
Sure, they are to patients, but not to strangers.

STEVE
Perhaps, because of stranger danger…

JOHN 
 Steve, we miss you at office. Please get well soon.

STEVE
Thank you very much.

ADAM 
Sure. Please get well as soon as possible. We really miss at office.

STEVE 
Thanks guys. I am motivated to get off this bed 
and resume my duties.

ADAM
 Please not now. Don't get off the bed now. 
Just relax and rest. We love and miss you.

STEVE 
Thanks.


John glances at his watch.


JOHN
(To Steve)
Okay buddy. We will be leaving now…and we brought you these. 


John drops the basket containing the provision on top of the drawers.


STEVE
Thank very much for coming.

JOHN 
No problem. I believe you will do more for us.

ADAM 
Same thing here!

STEVE 
  Thanks.


Adam and John bow and waves at Steve and exits the room. 
Finally they exit the hospital.


INT. JOHN'S APARTMENT____NIGHT

ANGLE on John turns and opens the door of his apartment. 
It is dark and quiet inside—like grave silence. 
He switches on the light switch on the wall.
John looks around.


JOHN
 (Calls) 
Mary! I am back….love!


There is no response.
John drops his office briefcase on the sitting's room sofa.


JOHN 
Sweetheart! I am back!


Still no response
John strolls to the bedroom


JOHN
Mary!


No responses.


JOHN
Mary!


No responses
It's obvious that Mary is not at home.
John dips his hand into his pocket and brings his cell phone.


INT. ISABELLA'S APARTMENT_____THE SAME TIME

Isabella and Mary are talking. 
Isabella is Mary's childhood friend.
She recently travelled back to Nigeria from United States of America after her divorce with her husband who is also a Nigerian.
Isabella is a gorgeous, strikingly beautiful woman with pretty eyes. 
As they are conversing, 
Mary's phone RINGS! 
She reaches for the phone and slips out of frame.

MARY
 (Into the phone) 
Hello.


INT. JOHN APARTMENT______THE SAME TIME
John is sauntering around his sitting room 
He's on his cell phone.


JOHN
Hello…………sweetheart, where are you?

MARY
 John. I am at Isabella's place.

JOHN 
Isabella? Is she back from States?

MARY
 Yes.

JOHN
 Should I come and pick you up?

MARY
No, I am fine here.


John is puzzled as he speaks to Mary in his cell phone.


JOHN
(Surprised)
Um, let me come over and pick you, dear.


MARY
No.


She hangs up her phone.


INT. ADAM'S APARTMENT____FEW MINUTES LATER

ANGLE on Adam sitting with a lady on the couch, 
and they are kissing and caressing. 
Adam's phone RINGS! 
Adam intentionally ignores the phone 
and carries on with his kissing. The phone rings again loudly. 
He reluctantly dips his hand into his pocket 
and brings out his phone. 


ADAM
(Speaks to the lady)
Please excuse me for a minute.


The lady nods.


ADAM
(Into the phone) 
Hello, John.

JOHN 
(O.S)
Hello..there is a little problem….

ADAM 
And what is it?

JOHN 
(O.S)
 My wife...She doesn't want to speak to me.

ADAM
 Have you called her?

JOHN
 (O.S)
Yes. I am very confused right now.

ADAM
You are very confused?

JOHN 
(O.S) 
Yeah.

ADAM 
Okay. Dress up we are going to club……

JOHN 
Now????

ADAM
Yes. I will pick you up in thirty minutes.

JOHN
Okay. No problem.

ADAM
Okay, then. Let's meet at GENESIS NIGHT CLUB. 

JOHN
OKAY.


John hangs up.
He sits down on his sofa dejectedly.


EXT. ADAM'S APARTMENT
ANGLE on the lady sitting on the Adam's couch
She is puzzled.


THE LADY
Are you going out now when I just got in?

ADAM
 My friend is not feeling too well………… 
(Pauses and looks at the lady warily) 
What's that your name again?

THE LADY
What? You have forgotten my name so soon.

ADAM
 Sorry….but what's your name?


The Lady's face grows and reddens with rage.


THE LADY
It's very awkward. Isn't it?

ADAM 
What?

THE LADY
 You forgot my name so soon? 

ADAM
It's just forty-eight hours since I met you; 
it's a lot of time, sweetheart to forget someone's name.

THE LADY
You know what? 

ADAM
What?

THE LADY
You are an idiot 
and I don't ever know what I am doing here!

The lady picks her handbag from the center table.


THE LADY
You should've told me that you were gay!


The lady storms out of the apartment and slams the door ‘BAAM'


INT. NIGHT CLUB_____NIGHT

In Nightclub, on the stage a female singer is singing and playing a guitar. 
Near the stage, there is mass of people, 
who are dancing and cheering the singer. 
Meters away from the stage, there is a bar. 
Adam and Francis are near the bar. 
Adam signals to get the bartender's attention.


ADAM
(To the bartender) 
Hello, Charlie! How are you doing, my man?

CHARLIE
 Fine, Adam


Adam and Charlie both shake hands.


ADAM
 Give me two glasses of whiskey for me and my friend.


Adam nudges John on his shoulder. 
Charlie nods.


JOHN
(To Adam softly) 
I shouldn't be seen here alone, unless I am with my wife.

ADAM
 Relax, man. 
You are just having fun like a normal young man should be doing on a Friday night

JOHN
But I am married. Married men aren't supposed to have fun in clubs alone, 
unless they are with their wives!


Charlie is pouring Hennessey into two glasses.


ADAM
 Charlie is married, too. Aren't you married Charlie?

CHARLIE
 Yes, with two kids.


Adam looks at John abruptly.


JOHN
 But he works here.


Adam speaks to Charlie.


ADAM
Charles, please tell me, on the day of your wedding, 
did the pastor by anyway say grooms are not supposed to go to bars and have nice time with their friends?

 CHARLIE
Nope!


Charlie passes two glasses filled with Hennessey to Adam, which Adam receives with both of his hands.
He passes one glass to John.


ADAM
(Smiling complacently)
Thank you, Charlie!


Adam dips his hand into pocket and brings out some money and gives to Charlie, the bartender.


ADAM
 Keep the change!


Adam requites Charlie and Charlie salutes to Adam gratefully.


EX. NIGHT BAR____THE SAME TIME

 As Adam and John are conversing, 
a Lady comes to the bar. Her name is Grace. She leers and smiles at John. 
She is bossy, stocky-built woman, of thirty-three and she owns the night bar.


GRACE 
(Smiling at John)
 Hello.

ADAM
 Hello, Grace. How are you doing? 
You look so beautiful 
like sun-goddess…a sun-goddess from Ethiopia. 
May I buy you a drink?


Grace wags her finger at Adam. 


GRACE
I wasn't talking to you, Adam. I was talking to your friend. 

ADAM
(Shocked expression)
Uh!

GRACE
I know you, Adam. Ladies say, "You are a player." 


Adam shakes his head irritably.
He turns away and sips whiskey from his glass.
 Grace STARES at John admirably

GRACE
(To John)
My name is Grace!


Grace stretches her hand and shakes John's hand.


JOHN
(Shaking Grace's hand) 
John Collins!

GRACE
Hope I see you around, handsome? 
Have a nice time ahead


Grace walks away from the bar 
and walks to the stage where the singer is performing.


JOHN
 Who's she?


Adam stares at Grace walking aggressively.


ADAM
Grace is her name. 
Her father is the C.E.O of one of Nigeria's top revenue generating Breweries Company, 
and she owns this club…

JOHN 
She owns this night club... ?

ADAM
 Yes, she owns the club, but she drinks like duck!

JOHN  
 ....Does she drink that much?


John darts a quick glance at Grace standing near the stage 
where some crowd of people, are cheering.


ADAM
She swallows alcohols down her throat like it was used by her mother in breast feeding her when she was a baby.


Adam sips his drink.


John
(Sipping whiskey from his glass)
 Wow.

ADAM
 That shouldn't surprise you. 
Then you should see her brother, Francis. 
He is worst.  
He is a bare-headed and woefully dreaded bully! Have you seen him before? 


John shakes his head to signal ‘no'.
Adam continued:


ADAM
 He is larger than Jide Kotsoko, 
but Kotsoko is much finer, because this guy,
 Francis, makes Mugabe look like the finest guy in the world. 
His face is rough and rugged like henhouse! 
(Sips his whiskey) 
Are you sure you haven't seen him before?

JOHN
 No, but I think someone with exact descriptions is standing right behind you.


John points behind Adam
Adam turns and sees Francis holding a bottle of whiskey. 
Adam freezes for a moment in fright at sight of Francis. 
Francis is an immense large, burly man of six feet plus tall with huge, rocky hands.


ADAM
(Quavering)
 Mr. Frankenstein, um, sorry, Francis………

FRANCIS
Were you gossiping about me?

ADAM
No….no no one dares gossip about stallion like you.

FRANCIS
What's a stallion?

ADAM
(Puzzled look on his face)
 Ugh…..stallion?!

FRANCIS
(With a grimace) 
What's a stallion?

ADAM 
It's another name for an extremely handsome person. You know you have a nice nose…….


Francis smiles and his face twinkles.


FRANCIS
 Sorry. Can I buy you guys' drinks?

ADAM
 (Raising his glass high) 
No, thank you so much.

FRANCIS
 Ok. I will see you guys later.


Francis shakes Adam and John's hands and swaggers away.
John stares at Francis as he swaggers away


JOHN
Wow, what a man! Built like a tree.

ADAM 
(Glaring at Francis) 
 ...he walks like a lion, too.

ADAM
 Enough of Francis's talk lets hook and have a little chit-chat with girls.

JOHN
 What! Which girls... ?


Adam looks around and sees some ladies.


ADAM
(Makes hand gesture toward the ladies)
Those beautiful ladies! Come on!


Adam ambles up to the Ladies and drags John with him.
John resists without efforts.


EXT. STILL NIGHT CLUB___CONTINOUS
 
Adam dragging John's left hand. They both reached where the ladies are clattering.


ADAM
(Smoothly) 
Hi, ladies! 
(To the most attractive among the ladies) 
What's your name, beautiful? Your face looks very familiar?

THE LADY 
(Flicks a bright smile)
My face? Where?

ADAM
In Paris..Mona Lisa….Nice eyes, amazing smile, style, and slender physique 
(Takes the lady's hands into his) 
Wonderful ivory hands 
(Sniff the air mildly) 
And your fragrance so unique
 that only flowers understands…

Adam releases his hands. And let go of the lady's hand.

THE LADY
(Blushing) 
Please…..

ADAM
So what's your name?

THE LADY
My name is Jane and these are my friends, Amaka, Stephanie, and Mirabel.

Jane's friends
(Uniformly) 
Hello, Adam!!

ADAM
Hello, strawberries!


John is very uncomfortable.
He looks around insecurely.


JOHN
 (To Adam in a low voice) 
Please, I want to talk to you privately?

ADAM
 (Looking at John) 
Now?

JOHN
(In a low voice)
Yes, now.

ADAM
 (Smiles at the ladies) 
I will see you soon ladies…Just a minute.


Adam and John walks from the ladies to talk


JOHN
Adam, we have to go.

ADAM 
Now? Why?

JOHN
 I want you to go with me to see and talk to my wife. Please…

ADAM
Sure. Let's go and get your wife back. 


Adam and John both shake hands and begin to walk toward the exit of the night club


JANE 
...Adam, are you leaving?


Adam and John turn their heads abruptly.


ADAM
Hey, Jane…I will see you later.

JANE 
Hope I will see you and we talk some other time?

ADAM
Absolutely!


EXT. OUTSIDE THE NIGHT CLUB___NIGHT

Adam and John walks out of the club, 
they strides to the driveway to where John parked his car.


ADAM
(Complacently) 
Those ladies were feeling me like I got them on my hook.

JOHN
 Sorry.


John opens the driver seat's door and Adam opens the passenger seat's door. 
John ignites the car. 


JOHN
I just need to talk to my wife. 


John reverses the car.


ADAM
Relax, man. You will. 


JOHN
(Big breathe)
Ok.

ADAM
I care so much about you that if I caught you in bed with my wife, I will tiptoe to kitchen and make you a cup of tea….

JOHN
….But you are not married.


Adam laughs


ADAM
...I know


John looks at Adam and furrows his brow.


JOHN
I and my wife had this incredible bond. 
She knows facts about me more than any other person.


A scowls builds on Adam's face quickly.


ADAM
 (Blurts out) 
What?

JOHN
My wife knows things about me that I wouldn't tell any other person.

ADAM
(Staring at John)
Did you lose your virginity to her?


John throws an angry-side glance at Adam 


JOHN
 No!

ADAM
Erectile dysfunction... ?

JOHN
No! Please, stop being so delusional.


INT. ISABELLA APARTMENT____SAME NIGHT

The sitting room is extremely large and ostentatiously designed.
ANGLE on John and Mary are sitting on the couch conversing. 
Adam sits on a sofa looking at Isabella.
Isabella is sitting at the dining room 
and with a laptop on her dining table. 
She is obviously using her laptop.
Adam glances at Isabella at intervals irresistibly.


JOHN
(To Mary)
Sweetheart, I love you so much 
and our home is extremely bored without you.

MARY
(Looks into her husband's eyes) 
Guess you missed me, dear?

JOHN
...won't that be an understatement? Of course I did

MARY
I am really sorry walking out 
on you this morning in our bedroom. 
Isabella advised me that 
the cornerstone of every relationship is respect and love


Adam stands up from his sofa and walks to the dining room where Isabella is sitting and using her laptop.


ADAM 
(Grinning)
Hello…

ISABELLA
 (Grins back admirably)
 Hi.

ADAM
 My name Adam…

ISABELLA
 Hi, Adam…I am Isabella.


They shake hands.


ADAM
I must say you have a very nice, furnished apartment.

ISABELLA
Thanks.

ADAM
I guess you are Mary's friend or cousin?

ISABELLA
Friend—

ADAM
That's nice.


Kehinde enters the sitting room. He is Isabella's son. 
Kehinde is a boy of eleven and taller than his age. 
He sees John and Mary and greets them.


JOHN
Hello, Kehinde. Is that you?


Kehinde nods and smiles
John continued:

JOHN 
You have grown so quick and big. Guess your mummy is doing her job right.


Kehinde smiles and turns abruptly. 
Kehinde sees his mom, Isabella, sitting at the dining room. 
He strolls to the dining room to his mother.


KEHINDE
Mummy


Adam is puzzled. He stares at Kehinde.


ADAM
You have a son.

ISABELLA 
 Yes…..he's the best thing to ever happen to me.


Adam grins. 
Kehinde reaches the dining room.


KEHINDE 
Mummy, I was doing a sport research. Guess what I discovered?

ISABELLA
What, sweetheart?

KEHINDE
Rashidi Yekini is the first Nigerian to score in a world cup competition?

ADAM
Oh, um, Yekini. Was he a hockey player?


John and Mary walks across the dining room.
John speaks to Isabella.


JOHN
Thank you so much for your hospitality towards my wife.

ISABELLA
Not at all…….

JOHN
Thanks.

ADAM
Are you leaving?


John nods


ADAM 
(To Isabella) 
Can you give me your call card? I will love to speak with you again, please…..


Isabella dips her hand into her hand purse lying on the dining table.
She brings out a calling card and hand to Adam.


EX. THE ROAD_____NIGHT

In the car, John is driving. 
Isabella is sitting on the passenger seat
Adam is seated at the back seat.


ADAM
(Dreamily)
She is so lovely, isn't she?

JOHN
Who?

ADAM
Isabella


Mary turns her head and looks at Adam


ADAM
She is beautiful. She looks exactly like AN ANGEL that fell from heaven…..

JOHN
You are kidding…

ADAM
 Her cheeks smooth like daffodils.... 
And her skins so beautiful like a baby. She is the one. Johnny….she is the true one.

JOHN
You want to add her to your "to do list?"

MARY
(Scoldingly) 
Nobody is adding my friend to any list. 
She is a nice person……and she just got out of a horrible marriage.

ADAM
 I think I have found my missing rib...

MARY
(Sarcastically)
 ...then, you have to visit a bone surgeon immediately.

ADAM
No...I really like your friend. 
Each time I spoke with her this evening, 
I saw shinning stars in her eyes...I was blind all these years. 
I was like a dazed butterfly beating against a bulb...
very confused, but now my sight is crystal clear.

JOHN
 (Small laugh)
Are you serious?

ADAM
Yes, I have found my soul mate, I saw her today, and she blew my mind away….

MARY
(Unconvinced) 
 I think you are infatuating.

ADAM
(Speaks to Mary)
  ....I am extremely serious. I saw beautiful, 
glowing stars in Isabella's eyes and it has never happened to me before. 

JOHN 
(Glances at Adam)
We are now on your street.

ADAM
John, let's hang out tomorrow, Saturday? 
May be go to bar or watch basketball together?

JOHN
I will be busy tomorrow.

ADAM
 I have known you for years and you do nothing on Saturday.

JOHN
That was then, but now I have to spend time with my lovely wife 


John gives a quick glance at Mary and smiles at her
John stops the car in front of Adam's gate.
Adam gets out from the car.

JOHN
See you on Monday, Adam!


John waves and zoom the car off.
Adam walks to his gate dejectedly, unlocks his gate and walks in his compound.


ADAM
Tomorrow is going to be miserably boring.


 Adam walks to the entrance door of his home.
He unlocks the door, opens and closes it.


INT. ADAM'S APARTMENT____SATURDAY AFTERNOON

On the background, it's 3.30 pm on the wall clock.
ANGLE on Adam, He is lying on the couch in his sitting room, 
He's listening to Asa's music playing.
He is obviously bored. 
He picks up his phone and dials John's number.


JOHN'S VOICE MAIL
(Gruffly voice) 
Hello, it's John, I'm not in so leave a message 
and I'll call you back.


Adam slowly sits up. 
He sees Isabella's work's card on his center table. 
He smiles.


ADAM
… yes. Let me call Isabella. 


ADAM stands up and picks up the card
 He dials Isabella's number from the card.


ADAM
(Flicks a smile) 
It's ringing…..


INT. ISABELLA'S APARTMENT____THE SAME TIME

Isabella and his son, Kehinde, are sitting on a sofa in front of the television playing Video game.
Isabella phone's RINGS! 
She stands up and picks the call.


ISABELLA
(In to the phone) 
Hello.

ADAM
 (O.S)
Hello, Isabella. It's Adam…

ISABELLA
Hello…hi.


Close On


ADAM
 How are you doing?

ISABELLA
I am great. How're you doing?

ADAM
Fine…..I was, um, wondering..if…

ISABELLA
 If?

ADAM
If you, um, like to go to…to? If…

ISABELLA
 ...If I will like to go out…

ADAM
 ...exactly

ISABELLA
 Okay, where?

ADAM
At Mr. Grill restaurant.

ISABELLA
Okay.

ADAM
Is eight okay by you?

ISABELLA
"Eight" is fine.

ADAM
I look forward to seeing you.


 Adam hangs up and jumps around gaily.


INT. MR. RESTURANT____NIGHT

At the restaurant Adam is at a table. 
He is sitting by himself in a banquette. 
A waiter serves him and goes. 
 Miss Isabella appears. 
She is wearing a pink chic dinner dress, 
looking preen and exquisitely beautiful. 
Adam spots her and stands up. 

ADAM
(With smiling face)
 Hello.


Adam goes to meet Isabella, escorts her to banquette. 
They both sit.


ISABELLA  
Sorry, I'm late.

ADAM
 No, problem
(Tiny pause)
You look stunning!

ISABELLA
Thanks.


Adam makes a gesture to the waiter to come over.
The waiter comes over to their table.


WAITER 
(Politely) 
How may I help you, sir?


ADAM 
(To Isabella) 
What would you like to take, ma'am?


Isabella grins at Adam.


ISABELLA
(To waiter) 
A glass of wine with little percent of alcohol, please…..

WAITER
(Politely)
Yes, ma'am.


The waiter exits.


ADAM
 (Very surprised)
 So you drink wine with little alcohol?

ISABELLA
(Affirmatively)
 Yes. Are you surprised?

ADAM
 A bit


The waiter comes over to their table carrying a saucer containing a glass of drink
He places the saucer gently on the table. 


WAITER
Anything else, sir?


Adam glances at Isabella and smiles.


ADAM
Menu, please...


Isabella raises her glass slightly high.


ISABELLA
 This is okay for now.

ADAM
 (To the waiter) 
We will call on you when we need anything.


Waiter nods and leaves.


ADAM
Isabella, please tell me about yourself?


Isabella flicks a bright smile.


ISABELLA
What can I say about myself? 
Okay, my name is Isabella Yetunde 
and I am an obstetrician...

ADAM
Helping pregnant women and delivering babies, uh?

ISABELLA
Yes, that's my job.


Isabella sips her glass of wine and smiles.


ADAM
 Nice (Beat) so what are your dislikes?

ISABELLA
I hate pretenders...
(Looks at Adam and smiles)
 Are you one?

ADAM
Me! My hairs are real. I am not bald and my nose isn't fixed. No plastic surgery.


Isabella laughs softly.


ISABELLA
Tell me about yourself, where are you from?

ADAM
Delta state

ISABELLA
The Big Heart of the Nation, you have a big heart?

ADAM
Yes, you want to see?


Isabella laughs again.


ADAM 
Won't you want to check the menu? 
They make the best barbeque in town here.

ISABELLA
Thanks, but I love drinking wine on dates. 


Isabella looks at Adam's eyes.


ISABELLA
I want to invite to lunch at my place tomorrow. 
Are you free tomorrow?

ADAM
(Starry-eyed and smiling)
Yes.


INT. ISABELLA'S APARTMENT____NEXT DAY

In Isabella's sitting room and it is nearly 2pm.
ANGLE on Isabella; she enters her sitting room.
She wears a green apron and carrying a saucer containing array of dishes. 
She walks to dining room 
and arranges the array of dishes on the dining table with refined dexterity.


ISABELLA
(Calls) 
Kehinde!


She walks to back to sitting room


ISABELLA
 Kehinde!


Kehinde enters.


KEHINDE 
Mom…..

ISABELLA
 Please bring a bottle of wine from the refrigerator. 
We are expecting a visitor. 

KEHINDE
Who?

ISABELLA
 ....Adam, Mr. Adam is coming to house.

KEHINDE
 Adam... ? Will Adam bring Eve along?


Isabella giggles.


ISABELLA
No....This Adam is your mother's friend.
(Tiny pause)
Please, bring me a bottle of wine from the refrigerator?

ISABELLA
Please go to the Kitchen and bring me a good wine, son.

KEHINDE
 Okay, mom. 


Kehinde exits to the kitchen.


ISABELLA
Thanks. 
(Imposed silence)
Kehinde, don't take confectioneries from refrigerator because lunch is ready.

KEHINDE'S VOICE FROM THE KITCHEN
 Uhn.. !


Kehinde enters the sitting room from the kitchen. 
He's holding a bottle of wine.
The doorbell RINGS. 
Isabella pauses for seconds


ISABELLA
I think it's him.

KEHINDE
 Maybe, it's the plumber. Who knows?

ISABELLA
 No. I don't think so.
 

The doorbell rings again.
Isabella walks to the door.
Kehinde strolls and drops the bottle of wine on dining table.  
Isabella opens the door. 
She sees Adam.
Adam holds another bottle of wine. 
Adam grins.


ADAM
I come with love and bottle of wine.


Isabella laughs softly.


ISABELLA
Come in, please.


Adam walks into the apartment.
He sees Kehinde


ADAM
Hello, Kehinde.

KEHINDE 
(Dead pan) 
Hello.

ADAM
 How are you doing?

KEHINDE
(Expressionlessly) 
Please stop acting like you know me.

ISABELLA 
(Scowls)
 Kehinde!

KEHINDE
Sorry, mom.

ISABELLA
 (Glances at Kehinde hands) 
Wash your hands and come to the dinner room table.


Kehinde exits the sitting room


ADAM
Wow, that's a really bold, strong boy.


EX. DINING ROOM__DAY__CONTINOUS

Isabella, Adam, Kehinde sits at an enormous dining table. 
The meal is elaborate and sumptuous. 
They all begin to eat.
 As they ate, Adam looks at Isabella eagerly.


ADAM
The meal is wonderful....very tasteful.

ISABELLA
 Thanks.

ADAM
 I must confess that, you cook the way you look. 


Adam smiles brightly.


ISABELLA
Thanks.


Adam touches Isabella's hand tenderly.


ADAM
No. I am the one that is supposed to be thanking you. 
Thank you so much for inviting me.


Kehinde is uncomfortable. 
He glares at Adam and his mom 
He storms out ominously.


ISABELLA 
(To Kehinde) 
Where are you going to?

KEHINDE
(Doesn't look back)
To my room!

ISABELLA
 Come and eat. You have barely touched your lunch.

KEHINDE
 I am not hungry. 


Kehinde storms out of dining room to his room.


ISABELLA
 (Disappointed) 
Keh—kehinde! 


Isabella tries to follow Kehinde.


ADAM
Please, let me talk to him.

ISABELLA
 Is he going to listen to you?

ADAM
I have sentimental affection for kids. 


Isabella nods.


 EXT. KEHINDE'S ROOM__DAY

The room is decorated with Barcelona's football team posters.
Posters of loniel Messi majestically plastered on walls. 
Adam knocks at the door from outside.
ANGLE on Kehinde, who is sitting on the bed
 His fists are clenched together.


KEHINDE
 Come in.

Adam opens the door.
The door makes clacking sound
Adam enters. 
Kehinde doesn't look at him.

ADAM
 (Exploring the room with his eyes) 
Nice room.


Kehinde stirs and glares at Adam


KEHINDE
What are you doing here? I thought it is my mom knocking.


Adam ignores the question intentionally. 


ADAM
 (Reads from the wall) 
BAR-CE-LONA fan?

KEHINDE
Yes, are you one too?

ADAM
(Obviously lying)
 Sure...Yep! Up Barcelona! 


Adam sits on a chair in the room. 


ADAM
Barcelona for life! Best team in the world, aren't we?


Kehinde nods and flicks a smile


ADAM 
(Glances at the posters of Loniel Messi plastered on the walls)
Good player. Isn't he?

KEHINDE 
(Nodding agreeably)
 Best in the World!

ADAM
 And good right foot, too.

Kehinde
 Right foot?

ADAM
 (Smiling) 
I mean good both feet! And head, too!

KEHINDE
 Best player in the world…
(Beat)
I never knew you like football and you are a Barcelona fan.

ADAM
Of course, I am.


There is a deep pause.


ADAM  
Do you love your mother?


Kehinde nods agreeably 


KEHINDE
Yes, I do love my mom.

ADAM
 Okay, if you do. Please go back and finish your meal.

KEHINDE
 Okay.


 Adam and Kehinde lift their heads as they both prepare to go back to the dining room. 
They see Isabella standing by the door which had been opened
Adams smiles at Isabella with victorious smile on his face

KEHINDE
 (Apologetically; Speaks with remorse voice) 
Mummy, I am sorry.

ISABELLA
 No, problem. Just come and finish your meal. 


She smiles at Kehinde.


EXT. Isabella's CORRIDOR__SUNSET

It is quiet and peaceful. The wind is timid, too. 
Adam and Isabella strolls abreast each other.

ISABELLA
(Smiling and her dimples squeezing delightfully)
 Thanks for coming.

ADAM
It's my pleasure.


Adam smiles as he enters the car. 
He waves at Isabella. 
Isabella waves back. 
Adam zooms off  


INT. John's office__DAY

John is sitting on an Eames chair and rummaging his desk. 
Adam enters without knocking. 
He wears a grin on his face and looks uncommonly happy.


ADAM
 (Grinning) 
John, this seems to be the best weekend of my life?

JOHN
 What happened?

ADAM
I and Isabella went out on a date....a very nice dinner together....

JOHN
You like this girl, uh?

ADAM
I think I am in love with her

JOHN
What do you like about her?

ADAM
Her personality…..her smiles…..her smiles floats in air gently
 and sometimes hangs in air like stars. 
It feels like I have bonded with them instantly. 


There is a knock on the door.
The company's secretary, Amaka, enters.


AMAKA 
Good day, the director wants to see both of you in his office.

JOHN
Thank you, Amaka. We will be with him in a minute.

AMAKA
 ....Okay.


INT. G.M ADVERTISING CO. LTD'S DIRECTOR OFFICE______DAY

It is a large, grandeur, well designed office. 
The director, Mr. James, is sitting directly opposite John and Adam.


MR. JAMES
 (Gruffly)
 I got a call from the group managing director of NIGERIAN BREWERIES 
telling me they want to advertise their new range of products through our company....

JOHN
 ....You mean the G.M.D?

MR. JAMES
Yes, he said one of you spoke to him…… I have negotiated and concluded the deal with them…..

ADAM
That's good for the company.

JOHN
 That's very nice for our company.

MR. JAMES
 Yes, it's.


 INT. HOSPITAL_________DAY

Isabella, in scrubs, walks quickly down the hallway of the hospital she works in.
She is on her CELL PHONE.


ISABELLA
 Hello, um, hello…


INT. ADAM'S APARTMENT______THE SAME TIME

Adam is lying on the sofa watching television and gnawing apple. 
His phone RINGS! 
He gets up from the sofa with slight difficulty and answers the CALL.


ADAM
 Hello, Adam on the line..... Isabella, how are you doing?

ISABELLA
 I am fine. Hope you're good?

ADAM
 Yes, I am fine.

ISABELLA
 (Persuasive voice) 
Please I want to ask a favor from you.

ADAM
 (Calmly)
Just ask, babe.

ISABELLA
 Please I am a little tied up at hospital…

ADAM
 (In a sexy way)
 Yes

ISABELLA
I will be going into operating room soon to help a pregnant lady deliver her child,
 and I am suppose to take Kehinde to his football practice. 
So I can't make it. I plead with you to help me take Kehinde to his football practice this evening. 
I know I am asking too much…

ADAM
 ...no…….not at all…. Please don't border. 
I will take him to his football practice. So where is he now?

ISABELLA
 He is at home...in my house

ADAM
 OKAY, I will go pick him up

ISABELLA
 Thank you very much. I am very grateful.

ADAM
 You are welcome....anytime
Adam hangs up.
He smiles, stretches his muscles and heads to his bedroom to get himself spruce up.


INT. ISABELLA APARTMENT_____DAY

Kehinde is sitting on the porch waiting for his mom to pick him to his soccer practice. 
Adam drives in and pulls in his car to Isabella's apartment. 
ZOOM!
He switches off the engine of the car.


ADAM
Hello! Kehinde!

KEHINDE
 (Surprised) 
GOOD AFTERNOON!

ADAM
 Your mom asked me to pick you up to your soccer practice.

KEHINDE
 She did?

ADAM
 Yes, she is kind of busy.
(Makes a hand gesture) 
Come in.


EXT. ON THE ROAD
ANGLE on Adam driving, 
Kehinde is sitting on the passenger's seat.


KEHINDE
Will you watch me play soccer?

ADAM
Sure.

KEHINDE
 Thanks.
(Tiny pause)
But—

ADAM
(Compassionately)
But, what?

KEHINDE
My coach don't give opportunity to play though—

ADAM
Are you serious?

KEHINDE
Yes.

ADAM
 Even, when you're Nigerian's MESSI?


INT. ON SOCCER FIELD_____CONTINUOUS

On the field, there are kids and teenagers between ages between ten and sixteen. 
They are jugging and doing light exercise practice. 
Adam pulls in to parking place for cars. 
He and Kehinde alight from the car. 
Kehinde rushes off to join his colleagues who are exercising and training. 
Big Frank, the team coach sees Kehinde approaching.


BIG FRANK 
(To Kehinde) 
You are late again!

KEHINDE 
I--I am sorrrrry, sir.

BIG FRANK
 (Gruffly)
 ...Join the other boys!


Adam sees big frank hollering at Kehinde.
Adam walks up to Big Frank in a composed manner.


ADAM
Hello, sir.


Big Frank stirs abruptly. 


BIG FRANK
Hello (beat) you have a kid here?

ADAM
 I am Kehinde's Dad.

BIG FRANK
 Kehinde's dad, how are you doing sir?

ADAM
Fine, we are good


  Big Frank and Adam shake hands together.


BIG FRANK
 Kehinde told me that you are in the United States

ADAM 
 (Calmly) 
Yes!  I came back yesterday and I came to watch him play. 
He really likes football….and he is aspiring to be one…he is fond of this guy called Messi.

BIG FRANK
Messi! Is Kehinde that good, is he?

ADAM
Of course, he is. 
In the states, his soccer friends' call him "the Black mamba"

BIG FRANK
 (Surprised) 
Are you very sure?

ADAM
Yes, It won't hurt if you give him a chance now, will it?


Big Frank jiggles his head.	


BIG FRANK
 Kehinde! 


Kehinde turns abruptly.


BIG FRANK
Come over HERE!


Kehinde jugs to Big Frank.


KEHINDE
 Coach….

BIG FRANK
 Yes. From now on you are our team striker. 
(Glances at Adam)
And your dad told me that you're good.


Kehinde nods.


BIG FRANK
 Take a training bib and let me see what you can do!

KEHINDE
 Thanks Coach.


Kehinde nods and smiles at Adam.


ADAM
 Just have fun, son and do me proud.


INT. ON THE ROAD_______SUNSET

Adam is driving. Kehinde is seated on the passenger's seat happy. 
They are both clearly excited.


ADAM
 That was fun. Never knew that you were that good! 
You skipped passed those defenders with so much easy…and I love that dribble…

KEHINDE
 ....which one?

ADAM
The dummy…


Kehinde laughs.


ADAM
 It was awesome! 
(Slight pause) 
God, I wish I could play soccer.


EXT OUTSIDE ISABELLA's APARTMENT_____NIGHT

Adam pulls into Isabella drive way. Kehinde comes off the car. 


KEHINDE
(In a cute, appreciating voice) 
Thank. Thank you for everything, sir.

ADAM
Oh, don't mention.

KEHINDE
 Thanks…….


Kehinde waves at him


ADAM
 Bye. I will see you later.


 Kehinde runs off in to his mother's apartment
Adam drives off.
              

THE DISSOLVE TO:
THE WORDS……………..
                 FIVE DAYS LATER


INT. OUTSIDE ISABELLA'S APARTMENT___DAY

Adam pulls his car into Isabella's driveway.
He strolls to Isabella's door with a big smile wreathed on his face. 
Adam presses the door bell. 
He straightens his shirt, fixes and smoothen his hair. 
The door opens.


ADAM 
(Smiling broadly)
Isabella.
 

Adam sees Joshua standing by door 
and holding the hand of the door. Instead of his presumed Isabella.
Joshua is Isabella's ex-husband.
Joshua is a medium-heighted, stout man with big, sugar-bowl ears and little mean-looking eyes.


JOSHUA
Hello. How may I help you?


Adam's smile melts away from his face.


ADAM
I am looking for..Isabella.

JOSHUA 
Isabella!! I am Isabella husband, and you are?


Adam makes a grimace.


ADAM
 (Winces; speaks slowly)
 ...Ouch…….

JOSHUA
 (Grimaces)
 Ouch? What kind of name is that?

ADAM
 Uhm, no....no. My name is Adam.

ISABELLA'S VOICE
(From the sitting room) 
Joshua, who is that?

JOSHUA
 (Responding)
 Oh, I think he is a house burglar. Who disguised as a grocery boy.

ADAM
 (Faintly angered)
Grocery boy... ?


 Isabella ambles to door and sees Adam


ISABELLA
(Smiling) 
Ha, Adam. Hi! Welcome in. 


Isabella speaks to Joshua.


ISABELLA
(To Joshua)
 He is my friend. 


Adam walks into the apartment.
Joshua explores Adam with his mean-looking eyes.


JOSHUA
 ....Oh, I thought he is the grocery boy.

ISABELLA
That's wrong….very wrong
(Tiny pause)
This is my ex-husband Joshua. 
He came back to Nigeria from United States of America
 and he is staying with us for some time.

JOSHUA
 I don't like being called your Ex…I am still in love with you, aren't you aware?


Isabella ignores the question.


ISABELLA
I think I have to make something for everybody to eat.

JOSHUA 
(Scoffing)
 Honey, let's go out on a date…me, you and Kehinde…excluding this ex-convict standing here.

Joshua shoots a finger at Adam.
Anger buds in Adam.

ADAM 
(Speaks to himself) 
Ex-convict?


Adam controls his Anger


JOSHUA
 (To Isabella egotistically)
 You must know now that I am extremely rich…Even recently I just purchased 25% of shares in shell oil….

ADAM
 (Interrupts)
 I think I have to leave you guys.

ISABELLA
 Now? You just got here now.

JOSHUA
 Please let the Lech go. Before he brings poverty to you, sweetheart. 
(To Isabella)
You know I still care about you, dear?

ISABELLA
 (Timidly) 
 ....Joshua cut it off, please.


Joshua treads to Adam, glaring at him fixedly.
He looks into Adam with disgust.


JOSHUA
Stay away from my wife 
and I hope as you leave you will get lost and never return here….

ADAM
 (Looking Joshua with wide-eyed) 
And you, with your big, over-sized ears 
and the hot air in Nigeria you will soon take off like Virgin Nigeria.

ISABELLA
Please stop! It has not gotten to that!


 CUT TO____ADAM'S APARTMENT__LATER THAT DAY

ANGLE on Adam, he turns the handle of his door. 
He opens the door. 
Adam strays into his apartment and almost stumbled to the floor, 
but regains his gait and walks to the couch in an unstable manner. 
He is obviously angry and his face sweaty. 
Adam dips his hand into his pocket 
and brings out his cell phone and dials, John's number.


INT. JOHN'S APARTMENT

Angle on John and Mary, on the background they are watching television.
John's phone RINGS
He picks his phone and answers the call

JOHN
(On the cell phone)
Hello, Adam is that you.

ADAM 
(O.S) 
Ye……yes.

JOHN
 Are you okay?


INT. ADAM'S SITTING ROOM

ANGLE on Adam, he's sitting on the couch.
His head droops
He is still on his cell phone

ADAM
 (Coughs weakly) 
Not……..not quite.

JOHN
(O.S)
Okay, I am coming over to your place. I will be there in few minutes.

ADAM
 Okay. Thanks. I will appreciate that.


Adam turns off the phone 
He grabs his chest. 


INT. ADAM'S APARTMENT_____NIGHT

Outside Adam apartment, John pulls his car into Adam's driveway.
 He shuts off the motor as quick as possible. 
He dashes through the gates of the house which are wide open.
 John hurries to the door of Adam's apartment. 
He knocks, but no response. 
He tries to open the door and discovers it isn't locked. 
He walks into the apartment. 
The lights are switched off and it is extremely dark and quiet in the apartment. 


JOHN
 Adam...? Who's here?


No responses.


JOHN
 (Calls again)
 Adam! Adam Eze!


 No response. 
The whirling of the sitting room fan echoes.


ADAM'S VOICE 
(Speaks in the dark in a subdued voice)
John...


John checks and rummages the wall for the light switch. 
He feels the light switch and switches on the electric light of the sitting room.
John sees Adam lying hopelessly on the sitting room's couch.
John walks up to him. 
He sits on the other couch of the sitting room


JOHN
(Compassionately)
...what's wrong? 
(Looking at Adam warily)
 Talk to me what's wrong?


Adam is lying on the couch.


ADAM
 (Subdued voice)
 John 
 (Clears his throat) 
 I am the most unfortunate man in the world. Within me I am dark and cold.

JOHN 
(Scoffing him off)
 No! No…..don't say that?

ADAM
 (Weakly) 
 John, I am miserable.

JOHN 
(Consoling) 
Stop saying all these things. 
Tell what the matter is. Are you very ill? 

ADAM
Ill?

JOHN
Because your face is dreadfully pale—

ADAM
(Touches his face tenderly)
 My face?

JOHN
 It's white like you have leprosy or something

ADAM
 No!  I am just sick…..love sick.

JOHN
  Love sick, are you now Romeo?  (Beat) what happened?

ADAM
 (Speaks slowly)
 Isabella…..

JOHN
Mary's friend, what's wrong with her?

ADAM 
(Tiny pause; then speaks slowly)
 I thought I knew women more than I knew figures, b-but but

JOHN
 But what?—

ADAM
 ...But I was wrong.

JOHN
 Stop diverting. 
Just tell me what happened between you and Isabella, Adam? 

ADAM
Her husband...I mean her ex-husband came back from United States to visit her.
(Tiny pause)
It's a harsh blow to me, you know.

JOHN
How?

ADAM
He's staying at her home now—

JOHN
Now?—


Adam nods.


ADAM
Now even as we speak

JOHN
 How does he look like?

ADAM
 He has this pair of Chinese-looking eyes and baboon dimples.

JOHN
 Don't forget that the guy used to be Isabella's husband.

ADAM
(His voice gaining some tinge of sinew) 
Ex-husband!
John giggles.

JOHN
Seem you are lost in cobweb of love. 


John snickers
Adam looks at John sternly.


ADAM
It's not funny. I really like this girl.
John stops laughing.

JOHN
I hope both of you didn't get into fight, did you?

ADAM
Not physically. But he called me names 
and I called him names, too. 
Imagine, he said, "I look like a condemned ex-convict."

JOHN
 (Doesn't look at Adam) 
Wow, he shouldn't have said that 
even though there are resemblances.

ADAM 
Yes, he said that 
(Tiny pause; looks at John)
 What, do you mean I look like an ex-convict?


John laughs disrespectfully again.


ADAM
 (Solemnly) 
Please stop joking now, because this is a serious matter.

JOHN
Yes, yes. What are you going to do now?

ADAM
 (Sinking his face into his hands)
 I don't know.

JOHN
 But if you and this lady spent 
and had good times together that means this lady likes you to a great extent.

ADAM
 (Looking at John)
 Are you sure?

JOHN 
Umm-hmm, you need to be firm and work hard 
to win her love again back. Who knows, 
perhaps her ex-husband came for a business trip or something. 

ADAM
 May be you are saying the truth, yes you are—

JOHN
So be firm and be positive.

ADAM
 Thank you, man. Thanks for the advice.

JOHN
 What are friends for? We help each and look out for each other.
(Tiny pause)
 Please make sure you take your bath before you sleep because you look like a poor, old….

ADAM
 ...poor, old man?

JOHN
 No. You look like a poor, old squeezed lemon or something.

ADAM
Poor, old squeezed lemon... ?

JOHN 
Yes. 
(Glances at his watch) 
Nine o'clock! I have to go Adam. I will see you at work.

ADAM
 Okay, thanks for everything.


INT. ISABELLA'S APARTEMENT_____NIGHT

Isabella enters the sitting room holding heaps of blankets and bed spreads. 
Joshua is sitting on the couch watching television. 
She drops the heaps of blankets and bed spreads on the couch beside Joshua.


ISABELLA
 (To Joshua)
Please, you are sleeping on couch.

JOSHUA
 (Shocked) 
Why?

ISABELLA
 Remember that we are divorced.

JOSHUA
But emotionally we are NOT! 
I am coming to join you in the ROOM!

ISABELLA
 No!

JOSHUA
 Please, Isabella. 
I flew over THOUSANDS FEETS only to be with you. I beg you!

ISABELLA
Beg me? What... ?

JOSHUA
 ....please just one night.

ISABELLA
 You are DREAMING! 


Isabella heads to bedroom
Isabella continued:


ISABELLA
GOOD NIGHT, JOSH!


Joshua said nothing. 
He is dumbfounded.


INT. G.M ADVERTISING CO. LTD_____DAY

It is time for lunch break and most of workers are heading out of the BIG entrance door. 
ANGLE on Adam, he stroll out of the Big entrance door.


EXT. RESTURANT_____DAY

Adam is strolling to his favorite restaurant to have lunch.
 He walks into the restaurant.
Adam sees Isabella and Joshua having lunch and this almost took his breath away. 
Joshua sees him instantly 
and he makes a hand gesture toward Adam to draw Isabella attention that Adam is here.
Joshua waves a hand toward Adam.


JOSHUA
 HERE IS THE HUNGRY GUY!


 Isabella sees Adam.
 Everybody in the restaurant is staring at Adam. 
Adam walks to Joshua and Isabella's table in calm manner.


ADAM  
Hey! Swollen head! 
My tolerance for you is being misused by you— 

JOSHUA
 What will you do?


Adam grabs Joshua by the shirt and pretends like he is about to slap him. 
Joshua trembles like a squirrel


ADAM
 What did you say again?


Joshua is cold stunned.


JOSHUA
(Pleadingly)
Sorry….sorry. 
Forgive me I know I talk too much and…I haven't renewed my health insurance
 and any punch would cause huge damage.


Isabella pulls Adam's hands from Joshua's shirt


ISABELLA
 Please stop. Stop embarrassing him.

ADAM
 He deserves it.

ISABELLA 
But……..what are you doing here.

ADAM
 (Stutters)
Um, I came………to have

ISABELLA
 Were you stalking me?

ADAM
 No...

ISABELLA
 So... ?

ADAM
 I only came to have lunch.

JOSHUA
 I guess he was stalking us. Let's leave to another restaurant.

ISABELLA
I want to go home


Isabella walks to the door of the restaurant
Joshua follows her closely
Adam is staring at them dumbfounded


INT. ISABELLA'S SITTING ROOM

ANGLE ON Isabella, she sits on the couch
Joshua is standing.


ISABELLA
Was I harsh on him?

JOSHUA
No. Not all. He was stalking you, dear.

ISABELLA
Was he?

JOSHUA
Yes, he was. Sweetheart, travel with me back to States—

ISABELLA
Why?

JOSHUA
There is no privacy here, is there any?


Isabella didn't respond.


JOSHUA
I will make sure you are happy. I promise. 
I will buy you a pet cat and change our housekeeper; 
you know Miss Louis smells like dead rat.

ISABELLA
Is that all?

JOSHUA
I will pay for a plastic surgery on your breast if you want one.


There is a deep pause.


ISABELLA
(Big breathe)
I won't travel with you

JOSHUA
Why?

ISABELLA
Because…. you think like a child—

JOSHUA
But I am rich—

ISABELLA
Your wealth is inherited

JOSHUA
But I made it better—

ISABELLA
With losses 
(After awkward pause) 
I listen to the news—business news and I also read the papers...

JOSHUA
...we made few losses

ISABELLA
Seventy million naira…..$460, 000 or something close to that.

JOSHUA
Oil price is falling so you shouldn't blame me.

ISABELLA
That aside, I can't love you anymore---

JOSHUA
Why?

ISABELLA
Your habits—

JOSHUA
My habits, how?

ISABELLA
You always put your hands inside your boxers and toy with your balls—

JOSHUA
That's because I feel heat down there—

ISABELLA
I am sorry. I can't love you anymore.

JOSHUA
Okay, I will leave tomorrow…..Okay…..I can't bear been insulted by a woman.

ISABELLA
I am sorry.



THE DISSOLVE TO:
THE WORDS……………..
                 SIX MONTHS LATER


INT. SILVERBIRD CINEMA_____DAY

Isabella and Kehinde went and watched a movie.
Kehinde is blushing.
They are both walking to the car park

KEHINDE
The movie was nice, mom.
Isabella nods.
Kehinde sees Adam.
He makes a gesture to Adam to draw her attention towards Adam.
Adam sees Isabella and Kehinde.


ADAM
(Smiles at them)
Hello.
Adam walks them.

ISABELLA
Hi.

ADAM
You look good as usual.
(To Kehinde)
How is school?

KEHINDE
Fine.

ISABELLA
So you came to see a movie?

ADAM
Yes, and you?

ISABELLA
We came to see a movie, too…….so where are you heading now?

ADAM
I came in a cab. My car was faulty---

ISABELLA
Will you mind if I give you a ride?

ADAM
Sure.


EXT. On THE ROAD

Isabella is driving
Adam is in passenger's seat.
Kehinde is sitting in the back seat.

ADAM
What of, um, Johnson?

ISABELLA
...you mean Joshua?

ADAM
Yes—

ISABELLA
He has gone back to States—

ADAM
Umm….So where are you driving to? 

ISABELLA
I want to drop Kehinde to a birthday party of his friend. Then I will drop you…..please—

ADAM
Okay.


INT. OUTSIDE HOUSE

Isabella pulls her car in to the driveway and switches off the engine of the car.
They all come out of the car 
and walk through a gate and strolls to Kehinde's friend's house who is having the party.
Isabella knocks at the door.
The celebrant's mother, Mrs. Bola opens the door.

MRS. BOLA
Welcome, welcome. Kehinde come in.

ISABELLA
Good evening, Mrs. Bola 


There is gaggle of kids playing around.
Kehinde hurries into the main room


MRS. BOLA
(Glances at Adam)
Is he your husband?

ISABELLA
He's a friend—

MRS. BOLA
But both of you look like a couple—

ISABELLA
So when should I come and pick Kehinde up?

MRS. BOLA
Eight....or seven-thirty

ISABELLA
Okay. See you.

MRS. BOLA
See you too.


INT. ON ROAD___EVENING

Isabella is driving
Adam is sitting on the passenger's seat.

ADAM
(Looks at Isabella)
I miss you.

ISABELLA
I did miss you, too.

ADAM
I…I missed your smiles, you know—


The traffic light at the junction indicates the "RED LIGHT"
All cars stop.
Isabella stops her car.


ADAM
I think I love you—

ISABELLA
You do?

ADAM
Yes, since the first day I met you….I have always loved you…I don't need any evidential proof...to ask you to marry me—

ISABELLA
I should—

ADAM
Marry me. You may say I hardly know you but the love
 I feel for you is transparent and unique…..please marry me.


Adam brings out his wallet and brings out a ring.


ISABELLA
Wait a minute, did you plan this today?

ADAM
(Holds the ring slightly high)
This the ring my late dad gave my mom—

ISABELLA
Wow.

ADAM
Please marry me; I know you do love me, right—


Silence roared.
"The Green light" has glowed.
 But Adam and Isabella are both unaware.
Car horns wail the atmosphere nosily.
Isabella's unmoved car is the reason for the consternation.
A huge, muscular man walks to Isabella's car angrily.


MAN
(Raps on the car's door grimly)
What's wrong with both of you?

ADAM
I just proposed to her.

MAN
Did she say yes?

ADAM
Please marry me, Isabella?

ISABELLA
Yes....yes

MAN
Wow lucky man, aren't you?

ADAM
I am a lucky man, indeed.

MAN
Take your time.


The man walks away, with a smile on his lips.


INT. ADAM'S MAIN ROOM____A WEDDING

ADAM and ISABELLA'S BIG WEDDING
A big wedding is going on and buzzes of conversations in the room.
Mrs. Eze is smiling and talking with guests.
Isabella is dressed in a wedding gown and she looks very beautiful.
Mary is talking with the bride, Isabella.
They are laughing.
Waiters are passing glasses of wine around.
Kehinde is seen wearing a tuxedo suit and smiling. 


EXT. On the balcony

John is standing on the balcony sipping his glass of wine.
Adam sees him.
Adam is dressed in a black suit and he looks his best.
He walks to John.


ADAM
(To John)
Johnny


John smiles and shakes Adam's hand.


JOHN
Getting married is good, is it?

ADAM
Of course, it's brilliant. My wife is god sent, you know.

JOHN
Sure, she is.


Mr. Pius joins John and Adam on the balcony.
Pius is a tall, rugged-looking man, with unshaven beards.
He's Adam's uncle.


PIUS
Nice wedding....there's enough to drink.

ADAM
Have fun, uncle.

PIUS
I am. Enough to drink…

PIUS
(To Adam)
I wish you and wife well....happy marriage life.

ADAM
Thanks Uncle.

PIUS
I will leave you and your friend now.


Pius walks back to main room.
A call comes from the main room 


WOMAN'S VOICE 
ADAM! Wedding portrait!!

ADAM
(Hollers back)
 Okay, I am coming! 
(To John)
Let's go and take a snap.

JOHN
Marriage pictures, doesn't make you insecure again, uh?

ADAM
Nah....I am wondering 
how the world would cope without weddings.


John laughs.
Adam and John walks into the main room.
Mrs. Eze walks up to Adam and nudges his shoulders.

MRS.EZE
I am proud of you, son.

ADAM
Thanks mom.

MRS. EZE
Your late father would've been too.

ADAM
Thanks. 


Adam kisses Isabella and smiles.


He nudges Kehinde's shoulders.
Everybody shuffles and gathers around James and Isabella

PHOTOGRAPHER
 (Fixing his through a hole in his camera)
 OKAY, this is perfect!
 (Clicks his camera)


THE END





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