"National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets" Alternate Ending
(This happens in place of the party at the end of the movie.)
After finding the City of Gold and being pardoned for their crimes by the President, Ben, Abigail, and Riley had requested the excavation of the City of Gold. After that, the work had been long and hard. When the he and archaeologists stood again in the great City, Ben's heart swelled with pride. Suddenly the emotional moment was interrupted by an annoying tap-tap on his shoulder.
"Riley, what is it?" asked Ben, turning around.
Riley folded his hands behind his back and smiled complacently. "Well Ben, it seems you've forgotten one small matter. I can see you're unearthing one of the greatest treasures of all time…but hey—" he snickered sarcastically.
"Riley," said Ben assuredly, "with the discovery of this treasure, we'll have your tax dilemma straightened out soon. I promise."
"Uh, no no," replied the younger man quickly, still smiling; "Actually I'm not talking about my taxes. You proved to the world that your family is honorable and stuff …but if you don't keep your promises, you get an impeachment!"
"What are you saying?"
"I seem to remember a certain promise you made to me," replied Riley collectedly.
"Really? What's that?" asked Ben, uninterested. He was surveying the work of the archaeologists out of the corner of his eye.
"Well, it went something like this," rambled Riley: " 'Next time we find a treasure that redefines history for all mankind, you make the calls and finder's fee.' "
Now Ben was interested. He turned to face Riley, surprise written all over his face. "I was being sarcastic when I said that," he explained.
Riley raised his hand quickly, beckoning for silence. "Ah, nope," he said, resolutely; "a promise is a promise Ben!" His features seemed to glow with pride and enthusiasm.
Ben heaved a sigh and shook his head. Abigail joined Ben and gave him a kiss on the cheek. "You're not gonna let him get away with that, are you?" she asked.
"A promise is a promise," shrugged Ben. "Riley is a smart kid. …But," he added, looking Abigail straight in the face, "I suppose he'll need our help to sort things out. …You know, both of us together."
"You mean, together, together?" Abigail asked.
"Yeah, together together together," nodded Ben. A smiled crept up his serious face and he leaned forward to kiss Abigail.
"Oh, you two love birds enjoy yourselves," smirked Riley; "while I make the calls and finder's fee on the treasure! I'm getting way more that half-of-one-percent this time, baby—oh yes!"
THE END