INT. CAR- DAY
Neil's mom is driving, Neil is in the passenger's seat. His mom is wearing her tennis outfit and handing Neil a large envelope.
NEIL'S MOM
Okay Neil? Here- take this, and make sure your father signs it and gives it back.
NEIL
(annoyed)
Mom, I know! I was trying to tell you what happened today at lunch.
NEIL'S MOM
OK. Just make sure he signs it.
NEIL
(under his breath)
Forget it!
NEIL'S MOM
What's that?
She pulls into an apartment complex and puts the car in park. Neil is grabbing all his stuff
NEIL'S MOM
I will see you tomorrow, okay hon? Love you! Have fun!
She begins to put on lipstick, not paying any attention to Neil at all who rolls his eyes and shuts the door. He walks up to the condo complex and knocks on the door as she drives away.
NEIL
Hello? Dad?
There is no answer. He knocks again, annoyed and begins to look though his backpack for a key. He opens the door and closes it behind him.
NEIL
Hello? Hello?
He sighs and wanders around the condo until he reaches the kitchen table where there is a note and a $20 bill.
CUT TO- NOTE
We will be home at seven, order a pizza! Dad
Neil puts the $20 in his pocket and slumps down on the couch. He turns on the tv, grabs the phone, and mid-dial hangs up, suddenly wanting to go out. He stands up, turns off the tv, grabs his backpack, and leaves.
INT: DAY, SCHOOL
School has let out already, Lindsay wanders down the hallway, holding some books. Music is flowing down the hallway, and she follows curiously. She comes to the auditorium and is pleasantly surprised to find Kim on stage with the drama club, rehearsing. She wanders down the isles, where there a few people sitting here and there, and takes a seat on the asile, watching Kim.
VOICE
(hushed)
Hey, Lindsay!
Lindsay looks a few seats down to her right and is surprised to see Nick sitting there, slumped casually in a seat.
LINDSAY
(shock)
Nick! Hi! What are you doing here?
She moves a few seats down so she is sitting directly next to him.
NICK
I come here sometimes.
LINDSAY
Um, Why?
NICK
(shrugs)
I don't know. Ever since Sarah and I broke up, Ken's MIA and you and Daniel studying all the time... and you know, the drums aren't exactly panning out…
LINDSAY
So now you want to be in musical theater?
NICK
(laughs)
No. But these people LOVE what they are doing. I mean it's sometimes just nice to watch people enjoying something.
They watch as Kim helps another student change something in the script.
LINDSAY
Yeah Kim really loves this. Does she know you come watch her?
NICK
I don't know. If she does, she doesn't say anything.
LINDSAY
How often are you here?
NICK
(Shrugs)
I don't know, I've been a few times.
Lindsay nods, still surprised. She suddenly feels bad.
LINDSAY
I've been a bad friend Nick, I'm sorry.
NICK
What? What are you talking about Lindsay? You are a great friend!
LINDSAY
(Shaking her head)
No, no I'm not. I've let you hang out all alone for weeks, and I've never even been to one of Kim's rehearsals..
NICK
No, you've been busy, you've been helping Daniel!
As he says this, Daniel appears in the open auditorium door and spots Lindsay. She sees him but ignores his wave.
LINDSAY
Nick, you can always hang out with Daniel and I- I mean we aren't studying every second!
NICK
You aren't?
LINDSAY
(uncomfortable)
Well, I mean, no one can study all the time. Sometimes when our work is done we hang out.
Daniel wanders down the isles and Lindsay looks over at him. He mouths "lets go" to her.
LINDSAY
(gesturing behind her)
Speaking of, I gotta go.
Nick turns around to see Daniel.
LINDSAY
(To Nick)
Do you want to come?
NICK
Nah, I'm cool. Another time. I may take you up on that.
LINDSAY
(standing up)
good
NICK
See you later!
Lindsay waves and walks up the isle to meet Daniel, who is clearly annoyed. He heads to the auditorium door and she follows.
DANIEL
(annoyed)
Come on! Who were you talking to in there?
They start to walk down the hall together
LINDSAY
Nick. Can you believe it? He was watching drama rehearsal.
DANIEL
(Laughs)
What a loser!
LINDSAY
He's not a loser! I think he is lonely.
DANIEL
(unconcerned)
Agh! He will find another girl soon!
Lindsay looks at him as they walk though the front doors.
LINDSAY
No, not that, I mean really Sarah's gone, Kim's doing the play, Ken's off the map, and you and I are hanging out alone all the time. I think we should invite him to hang out with us more.
DANIEL
(makes a face)
I don't think he wants to be doing what we are doing.
LINDSAY
(laughs)
So? I think we can hold off on doing that for one day.
DANIEL
(pouting)
Maybe YOU can
They walk to Daniels car and get in.
LINDSAY
Daniel, I'm serious. Nick has always been there for me. And you. He's even supporting Kim- KIM! Why should he be hanging out every day after school alone? I feel bad.
Daniel shrugs and starts the car.
DANIEL
He needs to get a girlfriend so he can have SEX after school. And I can tell you one thing, he is not going to find one hanging out at drama rehearsal.
Lindsay rolls her eyes as they back out of the space.
INT- DINER- DAY
Neil enters the diner, looking bored and slides into a seat. As he grabs a menu, he spots Ken sitting across the asile alone. He is drinking coffee and listening to headphones. Ken doesn't see him, but Neil looks uncomfortable. He starts to get out of the booth, but the waitress approaches.
WAITRESS
Hey, can I get you something to drink?
Neil shrinks back in his seat
NEIL
Sure, can I get a coke?
WAITRESS
No problem.
She walks away and Neil sinks down behind his menu. He peaks out the side to watch Ken light a cigarette. He looks mournful, and unaware Neil is watching him. The waitress returns with a coke.
WAITRESS
What can I get ya?
NEIL
Can I have a hamburger please. Fries extra crispy?
WAITRESS
Coming right up.
She walks away and Neil sheepishly digs though his backpack, pulling out a comic. Kens eyes shift up and he laughs when he sees the cover, Swamp Thing. Neil ignores him.
KEN
Did you see the movie?
Neil looks up and realizes Ken is talking to him
KEN
The movie, the Swamp Thing?
Neil realizes what he is asking
NEIL
Um, no, no I didn't see it.
KEN
(Smiles)
Good. Because it. Was. horrible.
There is an awkward pause as Neil thinks of what to say next.
KEN
The effects were terrible
KEN
It was rated R, you probably wouldn't have been able to see it anyway. It should have been rated S for stupid.
Ken lights up a little as Neil laughs. The waitress comes and puts Neil's food in front of him. Ken leans over to Neil
KEN
(Hushed)
Where you nice to the waitress?
NEIL
Yeah, why?
A waitress walks by and eyes Ken
KEN
I'm in here almost every day and Edna, she HATES me.
NEIL
(Stunned, almost interrupting)
Do you have any idea who I am? We are neighbors you know! Neil? I'm friends with Lindsay's brother, Sam?
Ken looks thoughtful for a moment, and smiles.
KEN
Oh yes, Neil, hey! Sorry!
Neil nods awkwardly, he is unsure if Ken really recognizes him. The waitress comes by and fills up Ken's coffee, Neil begins to eat, watching Ken out of the corner of his eye. Ken is moving the dial on his radio to find a song. The silence is uncomfortable.
NEIL
Why are you talking to me?
KEN
I just felt like talking, I guess
NEIL
What are you doing here every day?
Ken looks up and shrugs
KEN
Not much of anything. They fill up my coffee and let me sit here and smoke.
NEIL
Oh.
Ken is staring at Neil's food.
NEIL
Do you want a fry?
Ken shrugs and gets up and sits across from Neil
KEN
Sure, thanks.
He takes a fry and chews on it.
KEN
(to Neil)
Go ahead, you can ask me. I know you want to.
Neil looks very confused
NEIL
Ask you what?
Ken suddenly goes very dark
KEN
(sarcastic)
You think I think you offered me a fry for fun? You want information!
This is so absurd Neil laughs out loud which only makes Ken angrier. Neil covers his mouth.
KEN
(quietly angry)
Now you are laughing at me- I'm the town joke
NEIL
I swear, I have no idea what are you talking about!
KEN
(sarcastic)
Sure, you had no idea my father went in prison? He was haled off by the cops in the middle of the day a block from your house.
(to himself)
I should pound you!
He starts to stand up aggressively.
NEIL
(in a panic)
Wait! No! Seriously? The cops? Really?
Ken finally notices the confusion on Neil's face and sinks down, his head in his hands.
KEN
I'm sorry
Embarrassed, he gets up to leave the booth
NEIL
Wait. I don't know what happened, but now I want to know. Tell me!
Ken rolls his eyes and throws his head back, sitting down once again.
NEIL
Look- I'm sorry, I didn't know. I haven't been at my house every night, my parents have been distracted, they they
He pauses
NEIL
They are getting divorced. My dad doesn't live there anymore, his condo is over here, on Oak Street.
There is a long silence again.
KEN
Ah, sorry man. About your parents and stuff.
NEIL
(annoyed)
It's fine. Whatever. What happened to your dad?
KEN
He was arrested.
NEIL
(shocked)
Really?
KEN
They searched our house, everything.
NEIL
What did he do?
KEN
(sighs)
I'm not sure
NEIL
What do you mean you aren't sure?
KEN
It's embezzlement. Something with his company and money and I don't understand any of it.
NEIL
(looks awkward)
Oh. I know what that is.
KEN
Yeah I know, he was stealing money and stuff. I just don't understand how. Or from who. He says he didn't do it, he says it was his partner. My mom believes him.
NEIL
Do you?
KEN
I don't know. My parents don't exactly share information with me very often, especially these days.
NEIL
Mine either.
KEN
(gesturing towards the half eaten burger)
Are you going to eat that?
Neil shakes his head
NEIL
You can have it.
KEN
Thanks!
INT- LINSDAYS HOUSE
Lindsay and Daniel are standing by the door kissing. She quickly pulls away.
LINDSAY
Shhh, stop it, my parents are in the kitchen!
Daniel pulls her towards him and they kiss again.
LINDSAY
(hushed whisper)
Seriously, you have to go.
Daniel smiles at her leaning against the open doorframe. She launches forward suddenly and kisses him.
JEANE (OS)
Lindsay! Come to the table, dinner is ready!
Lindsay pulls away, her and Daniel both laughing.
LINDSAY
Go!
He grabs her hand for a moment before slipping away and smiles to herself, closing the door. She practically skips to the dinner table where Sam, and her parents are sitting. Her hair is a mess from making out with Daniel.
SAM
What's up with your hair, Lindsay? Ever heard of a brush?
She sits down, flattening her hair.
LINDSAY
(to Sam)
Shut up Sam
JEANE
Don't talk to your bother like that!
Lindsay grabs a bowl of mashed potatoes and begins spooning it on to her plate.
LINDSAY
(half-heartedly)
Sorry.
HOWARD
So Sam, I saw Neil's dad today, he was with that new girlfriend. How is he doing?
Sam shrugs
SAM
Okay I guess
INT-DINER
Ken is still in Neil's both. He reaches to his old table and grabs his cigarettes, lighting one as Neil flinches
KEN
Sorry, does this bother you?
NEIL
(lying)
No, not really. My dad's girlfriend smokes, I don't really care. I know it's bad for you but I know if you smoke it's not going to like, kill you instantly or anything.
Ken laughs
KEN
It's just something to do.
Neil nods
KEN
So your dad has a girlfriend already? That was fast!
Neil doesn't say anything. He is contemplating. Finally..
NEIL
I think they started seeing each other before the divorce. She was his secretary.
KEN
Oh. OH.
He screws up his face as Enda comes by and puts the check on the table. Neil pulls out the $20 bill.
NEIL
Yeah, we were supposed to have dinner tonight, but instead he left me this.
He shakes the bill.
NEIL
(sarcastic)
Thanks Dad.
He places the bill down on the table and Ken looks around the quiet restaurant. There is only one other person there, an old man sitting alone. The waitresses are gathered around a TV near the bar, watching a game show.
KEN
(leaning in and whispering)
Hey. Why don't you keep this $20, and get something for yourself, like some more of those comic book thingies?
He slides the $20 back across the table to Neil who looks very confused.
NEIL
(laughs)
You want to pay for me? Thanks but I-
KEN
No, no I'm not going to pay for you. WE are going to dine and dash.
NEIL
Dine and what?
Ken reaches over to his old booth, grabbing his jacket and collecting his things.
KEN
And Dash. Meaning we aren't going to pay.
Neil shakes his head.
NEIL
No- no I can't do that. I don't care, my dad gave me money for dinner-
KEN
Screw dinner, screw your dad! He didn't even show up, right?
Neil looks down as this sinks in.
NEIL
Right.
KEN
Come on, I do it all the time. I mean, I'm getting sick of this place anyway, I need a new hang.
Neil looks up, excitement in his eyes. He wants to do this.
NEIL
(speaking out of the side of this mouth)
So we just like, run out of here?
KEN
No No! That would be too obvious. We walk out of here, the same way we would if we had paid. The waitress won't even know until she comes up to the table after we leave.
NEIL
What she DOES come up to the table before we leave?
KEN
Then we run. Or pretend we forgot. Let me take the lead okay?
Neil puts on his jacket, swallows hard, and nods.
KEN
Ready?
Ken gets up from the table and Neil follows, looking back at the waitresses by the bar. They are talking and not even looking over at them. Ken stops by the front counter and picks a toothpick out of the dispenser casually as Neil stands by the front door nervously. Ken turns and opens the door, and they booth walk out.
EXT- OUTSIDE
Neil exhales and puts his hands on his knees
NEIL
Oh my god! I can't believe how easy that was!
Ken laughs and picks his teeth, walking away.
KEN
Okay buddy come on lets go!
Neil glances though the restaurant to see the waitress heading to the table and takes off running past Ken.
KEN
Where are you going?
NEIL
(yelling back at Ken)
She's walking towards our table!
KEN
Oh Shh-
He begins to run also, and they both stop, panting, on the edge of a nearby parking lot.
NEIL
(paranoid)
I think they saw us, did they see us?
KEN
No, no it's fine.
NEIL
Oh my god they are going to call the cops, I'm so dead.
He begins to pace
NEIL
Oh my god!
Ken puts his hands on Neil's shoulders.
KEN
Calm down. It's not a big deal. It was a $5 meal at a POS diner. No one is calling the cops. We are fine. I do this all the time.
Neil exhales again and smiles.
NEIL
I can't believe we just did that! Dine and Dash Wooo!
He jumps up and down with Glee.
KEN
Okay okay. That's enough, I gotta go I'll see you later!
He begins to walk away but stops, Neil watching him.
NEIL
What's wrong?
KEN
I just realized my car is in the parking lot. I gotta wait until they close.
He rolls his eyes and sits down on a parking bumper.
KEN
Well this blows!
Neil walks towards him.
NEIL
I will wait with you.
KEN
No no- don't, I don't want you to get in trouble with your dad, right?
Neil smiles
NEIL
Right. Okay then. Sorry. See you later.
Neil turns and walks away. After a few moments of walking, he pulls the $20 out of his pocket and looks at it, laughing to himself.
INT. SCHOOL, DAY
Lindsay walks down the hallway with Kim.
KIM
So she like didn't care at all that I didn't have time to study because I've been up so late going over lines for the play- I mean what a bitch!
LINDSAY
(nodding)
Yeah, Kim- I've been meaning to ask you- are you okay? Like are you nervous for the play? Do you think its going to go well?
Kim looks at her strangely.
KIM
What? Why? Why would it not go well?
LINDSAY
No reason, I just wanted to ask. Because it's your first show in front of a lot of people.
KIM
I know my lines, and I don't GET nervous.
LINDSAY
Okay, but if you need help, like going over scenes or something, or if you just want to talk, I have some time after school.
KIM
(stern)
I said I'm fine, I got it.
LINDSAY
(throws her hands up)
I'm just trying to help, be there for you
KIM
(smiling)
And I'm saying I don't need you too, but thank you.
LINDSAY
(looking at the ceiling)
Ok then.
INT- SCHOOL HALLWAY
Sam, Neil, and Bill are walking to Bill's locker.
BILL
Cool watch Neil!
Neil looks down at his watch
NEIL
Do you like it? I got it yesterday. My mom dropped me off at the mall because she had an appointment.
He rolls his eyes
SAM
I thought you were at your dad's yesterday?
NEIL
Yeah, I was, but when I got there, he wasn't. My mom called from the club around seven and when I answered and told her he wasn't there, she was furious.
BILL
Wow. Did she yell at him?
NEIL
I don't know, probably. I mean he did leave a note. Anyway, I don't care, because I got this cool watch! It has a calculator
SAM
Cool! I heard if someone else has one, you can send messages to each other.
BILL
I wonder if Ms. Gresky will take it away for the geometry test. You could look up all the answers.
They reach Bill's locker and Vicki walks by, stopping to talk to some cheerleaders behind them.
SAM
(smiles)
And send them to Vicki!
They laugh
NEIL
Shut up.
Vicki pops her head in the circle
VICKI
Did I just hear my name? Are you guys studying for the geometry quiz tonight?
SAM
Yeah, Stacy and I are.
VICKI
Good, because I'm going to the mall with Stacy after school to pick out T-shirts for the fundraiser. Then we can all study after.
NEIL
Yeah, sure.
Vicki looks at Bill, almost pitying him
VICKI
(To Bill)
You can come too, it's not like it's a date or anything
BILL
Thanks. But I have practice.
VICKI
Oh Yeah. Okay well, see you guys later.
She walks away and Bill rolls his eyes
BILL
(mimicking Vicki to himself)
"See you guys later"
Neil and Sam smirk.
Montage: Otis Redding version of "Satisfaction": A few scenes play out over the music
Lindsay opens her locker at school to find a note from Daniel that says "back hallway, 3 o'clock- ". She shakes her head and laughs, but then quickly shoves the note in her pocket
CUT TO
Later that day at school Lindsay approaches the deserted back hallway looking around, suddenly Daniel appears and grabs her hand. He pulls her into a nearby closet and begins to kiss her.
CUT TO
Lindsay exiting the broom closet sheepishly
The music fades as the bell rings and people fill the hallway, Daniel exits the closet, smirking at Lindsay before they walk off in opposite directions.
INT- School day
Lindsay nearly walks into Nick, she is still flushed from her encounter with Daniel.
LINDSAY
Oh hey Nick sorry!
NICK
No, it's cool, sorry! I wasn't paying attention.
They stop under the stairs to chat.
LINDSAY
So what's going on?
NICK
(shrugs)
Not much. I have a test tomorrow in History and Geometry- I'm pretty stressed out. You know if I don't keep a C average, my dad will trap me in the house forever.
LINDSAY
Yeah, are you going to study?
NICK
(laughs)
I don't know, maybe.
LINDSAY
What are you doing after school?
NICK
(shrugs)
Nothing. I guess I should hit the books, but I probably won't..
LINDSAY
Well why don't you hang out with Daniel and I?
Nick lights up
NICK
(excited)
Really? I mean I don't want to interrupt your study sessions, but I could use one right about now.
LINDSAY
No, not at all, it will be fun, I can help you. I was in Williamsons history class last year. I'll see if I can find my notes at home!
NICK
(nods and smiles)
Oh yeah, okay great!
INT-MALL
Girls are browsing jewelry in a store. Sam and Neil stand nearby, very bored.
SAM
No one ever told me about this part
NEIL
What?
SAM
That being in a relationship means a lot of waiting around and going to the mall.
NEIL
Even I knew that.
SAM
I mean, it's not as bad as Cindy. God that was awful. At least Stacy likes to watch movies and do other stuff, but still, here I am, at the mall again.
Neil nods.
NEIL
Yeah. Even my dad waits for his girlfriend at the mall.
Vicki approaches them and shows Neil an ugly turquoise ring.
VICKI
Isn't it amazing?
Neil nods and Stacy walks up.
VICKI
Ugh. Any guy that could buy me this would make an excellent boyfriend!
STACY
Who cares? Buy it for yourself!
Vicki's face drops.
VICKI
It's three weeks allowance, I only wish.
They walk back to the rack and put the ring back.
SAM
(teasing)
Why don't you buy Vicki that ring, then she will be your girlfriend.
NEIL
Ha ha. I told you we are just friends. Besides, do you think I want a girlfriend so I can just sit and wait at the mall like you?
Sam laughs.
SAM
Well you don't have a girlfriend and you already do.
The girls come walking towards them
VICKI
Come on lets go.
EXT PARK-DAY
Lindsay, Daniel and Nick are sitting under a tree in the park, Nick is holding a joint and he is laughing with Lindsay. Daniel, his back against the tree, is pissed off and staring off to the side, not engaging them.
NICK
(laughing)
Oh man, if I could have just you know, stepped outside myself- seen that awful audition and man- what those guys must have thought..
He passes the joint to Lindsay, who surprisingly takes a hit. Daniel rolls his eyes.
LINDSAY
The bass player hit on me!
NICK
(shock)
No! When? We were only there for two minutes before they kicked me out!
(laughs)
When would there be time?
LINDSAY
(laughing)
During the audition! He winked at me!
She passes the joint to Daniel who shakes his head. She passes it back to Nick.
NICK
You mean like this?
He attempts to wink, but contorts his face strangely. Lindsay doubles over in hysterics.
NICK
What?
LINDSAY
(laughing)
That's how you wink?
NICK
Yeah! What?
He makes the face again and Lindsay laughs again. Nick starts to laugh too.
NICK
I'm winking right?
LINDSAY
(laughing)
No! You look like you are having a seizure!
They both laugh again, and Lindsay lays down in the grass.
LINDSAY
Ah, I miss this.
NICK
I know! I know! Right man?
He gestures to Daniel
NICK
We don't do this enough anymore, right?
Daniel nods and kind of grunts.
LINDSAY
No! We don't.
NICK
(sadly)
When did everything change?
LINDSAY
(thoughtful)
I don't know. Everyone just kind of went their own way..
Daniel shifts and leans his head back, annoyed.
NICK
Yeah, but why can't we all still be friends?
LINDSAY
We ARE friends, we will always be friends.
She sits up
LINDSAY
I mean, you go to Kim's rehearsals. That's a true friend. I haven't been to a single one. And Amy told me you have been trying to call Ken. You keep it going, you keep us all together!
NICK
I do?
LINDSAY
Yes, and we don't deserve you.
Daniel raises his eyebrows and Nick looks at her quizzically.
NICK
What do you mean?
LINDSAY
You and Sarah broke up, and we abandoned you.
She looks over at Daniel
LINDSAY
We all abandoned you. I'm sorry.
Nick hangs his head. Lindsay looks at Daniel and stares him down until finally…
DANIEL
(robotic)
Yeah man, sorry.
Nick looks at both of them, he is almost at the point of tears
NICK
I know you didn't mean to, like Lindsay said, everyone just went their own way. But it seems like everybody went somewhere but me.
Lindsay puts her hand on Nicks shoulder.
LINDSAY
No matter where we go, what we are doing, we will always be friends.
Nick and Lindsay smile at each other. When they look over at Daniel, he offers a quick fake smile, his face falls as they look away.
NICK
Thanks guys.
INT- MALL FOOD COURT
The four of them have their books out and are studying. Sam and Stacy are holding hands. Everyone is looking down at their books. Neil notices Stacy and Sam's hands and then looks at Vicki, as a stray blond hair falls in her face.
NEIL
(getting up)
I will be right back, I'm going to go to the bathroom.
No one responds as he gets up. He quickly walks into the jewelry shop from earlier. He looks around, it is dead quiet, and no one is around. He spots the ring Vicki had before and takes it off the rack.
SALESPERSON (OS)
Oh! Very beautiful ring right?
Neil looks up, panicked and nods.
SALESPERSON
It was made out on the west coast, on an Indian reservation called the ah ah
He is trying to remember when the phone rings.
SALESPERSON
I'll be right back
He answers the phone and starts having a heated argument with the person on the other end.
SALESPERSON
No, no! I told you tomorrow I will pick it up, I'm not here on Saturday!
The salesperson's back is to Neil and he quickly looks at the ring, back at the salesperson and then pockets it. He quietly speed walks out. By the time he approaches the table in the food court, he is out of breath.
NEIL
Hey
VICKI
Hey, we were just going over number six on the practice quiz? Did you finish it yet?
NEIL
Yeah, hold on.
VICKI
What's wrong with you?
NEIL
Nothing, nothing.
He looks at his paper.
NEIL
Yeah, I got number six.
Vicki starts to talk but Neil isn't listening. Relief flows over him as he sticks his hand in his pocket making sure the ring is still there.
INT- NIGHT WEIR HOUSE- DINNER TABLE
Stacey is there.
JEANE
Oh Stacey, we are so glad you and Sammy worked things out
Sam is horrified
SAM
Mom!
JEANE
Sorry. I'm just glad to have her back at the dinner table again.
Stacey smiles
STACEY
No, No, I'm so glad to be back. I miss your chicken!
Jeane and Stacey giggle. The phone rings and Jeane stands up to get it.
HOWARD
You kids going to the school play this year? I saw a flyer, it's for Annie.
LINDSAY
I'm going! Kim is the star!
HOWARD
Kim? That deadbeat friend of yours?
LINDSAY
(smiles)
She is different now, I told you, She's really great, very talented! I told you, all my fr- I mean. Those people have really changed.
HOWARD
Not that Ken fellow, his father was just arrested you know!
Jeane walks back into the room.
JEANE
Lindsay, Daniel is on the phone.
She sits down as Lindsay gets up and walks around the corner.
JEANE
(yelling after her)
Don't be long, it's dinnertime!
Lindsay picks up the phone
LINDSAY
Hey
CUT TO- NIGHT PAYPHONE
Daniel is standing outside talking on a payphone
DANIEL
Heeey
LINDSAY
What's up?
DANIEL
Nothing. What are you doing right now?
LINDSAY
(slowly)
Eating dinner. With my family.
DANIEL
I'm coming to pick you up in an hour.
LINDSAY
I can't, it's too late
(lowering her voice)
There is no way my parents will let me. Just come over to study.
Daniel smirks
DANIEL
Yeah, that's not what I want to do.
Lindsay smiles.
LINDSAY
Sorry.
Daniel leans against the phone booth.
DANIEL
Come on, I already miss you Lindsay, I haven't kissed you in like three hours.
Lindsay soaks in this moment, smiling.
DANIEL
Just tell your parents you have an emergency study session or something.
LINDSAY
(smile on her face)
I'm sorry, I can't. I will see you tomorrow though, okay?
Daniel lets out a huge sigh
DANIEL
(annoyed)
Alright, fine.
LINDSAY
(lowers her voice)
Daniel, you know if I could, I would have you pick me up right now.
DANIEL
(softening slightly)
I know.
LINDSAY
Okay, I'll see you tomorrow.
DANIEL
Bye
He hangs up quickly and Lindsay is taken aback slightly, but she collects herself and walks back to the table. Suddenly the doorbell rings, and Howard throws down his fork.
HOWARD
Enough with this already! We are in the middle of dinner!
JEANE
Who could that be?
Jeane gets up to go to the door. Everyone quietly eats.
CUT TO
Jeane opening the door and Kim is standing there, looking nervous and distraught.
JEANE
(uncomfortable)
Kim! Oh hi there. How? How are you?
KIM
You don't have to do that- I know you don't like me.
Jeane looks horrified
JEANE
Of course I like you! It sounds like things are going well for you these days, Lindsay told me you are in the school play.
KIM
Yeah, I don't know if I'm doing that anymore
JEANE
Why?
KIM
(panicked)
The play is in two days and suddenly I'm forgetting my lines, missing cues, it's like I freeze up and go blank. I've been studying for months, I know this stuff!
JEANE
Oh honey, you are probably just nervous, do you want to come in?
KIM
(sheepish)
No, no I don't want to intrude, not if you are having dinner. I just thought- Lindsay offered to help me with my lines..
JEANE
(pushing Kim inside)
Of course, come in! Please! It's going to be okay Kim, Lindsay will help you and you will get it all together.
KIM
I don't want to-
JEANE
Oh please Kim, come on, follow me.
She follows Jeane into the kitchen, Lindsay stands up right away upon seeing her.
LINDSAY
Kim!
Kim bursts into tears. Sam, and Stacey look awkward and Howard rolls his eyes.
HOWARD
(irritated)
This again? I thought we have been though this!
Jeane and Lindsay rush to Kim's side.
JEANE
(to Howard)
Oh Howard, have a heart! The poor girl is under a lot of stress, she is the lead in the school play!
LINDSAY
Kim, what happened?
KIM
I can't- can't. I can't remember my lines! The show is in two days! Everyone is counting on me! And you said you would help and then I came here and I don't know!
JEANE
Lindsay, why don't you take Kim into your room, you can finish dinner in there.
Lindsay looks shocked.
KIM
But all my things, my music, the script- it's all at my house!
Howard and Jeane look at each other.
HOWARD
Oh alright Lindsay go over to Kim's, and you can help her there. But I want you home by nine.
KIM
(to Howard)
Thank You!
(to Lindsay)
Thank You!
JEANE
It's going to be alright honey, I'm sure you will do great!
Lindsay grabs her coat and ushers Kim out of the house.
INT: Kim's house. It is just shy of a trailer. Kim is sitting at the kitchen table looking over her lines. Lindsay is arranging chairs in the living room. Kim's mom and step dad are sitting on the couch watching Wheel of Fortune and her older brother is sleeping on another couch. Lindsay looks nervous but approaches her mom.
LINDSAY
Okay so can you guys sit here?
STEPDAD
Why we gotta sit there? We are fine on the couch!
LINDSAY
Well the idea is to make Kim feel like she is performing to an audience, so she isn't as nervous when she does the real thing.
KIM'S MOM
(to step dad)
Yeah, you idiot! We are Kim's audience!
She stands up and plops down in the chair and lights a cigarette.
STEPDAD
I'm staying right here
KIM
(from the kitchen)
Fine with me!
KIM'S MOM
Don't talk to him like that, Kim!
KIM
I can talk how ever I want!
STEPDAD
(to Kim's mom)
I told you, she always gives me the smart mouth!
He scratches his behind and then inspects his fingernails, Kim's mom looks at him in disgust
KIM'S MOM
(to Step dad)
You're gross, you know that?
STEPDAD
I'm gross? You're the one smoking all over the house, you are going to make the cats sick!
KIM'S MOM
(raising her voice)
The cats? You are thinking about the cats? What about me?
The brother on the couch starts to move
MIKE
Hummmmphhhh?
STEPDAD
The cats are innocent!
KIM'S MOM
(yelling)
What? You saying you want me to get sick?
STEPDAD
(yelling)
You are an insane woman!
Kim stands up
KIM
(yelling)
HEY! Everyone! Can you please stop screaming and sit down and pretend to be normal for just one second? I've never done anything in my life worth anything and I care about this play. I need practice and you idiots are the only audience I have right now. Either sit down or don't but make a decision because Lindsay needs to be home by nine o'clock. OKAY?
There is silence as Mike pulls himself off the couch, taking the blanket with him and sits down in a chair. The Step dad doesn't make it to a chair but he slides down to the end of the couch to get a better view.
LINDSAY
Okay. Kim is going to sing this song for you. It's one of the most important parts of the play. All you have to do in sit and watch.
Lindsay takes a seat next to Mike and Kim walks in front of everyone, and takes a deep breath, shaking her head.
LINDSAY
(to Kim)
You can do this, you have done it a hundred times!
KIM'S MOM
Yeah Kimmie! That's my girl!
Kim laughs at her mom and loosens up a little. Lindsay inches away from Mikes blanket, which is starting to push up on her chair.
KIM
(Singing)
Maybe far away, or maybe real nearby, she may be pouring her coffee, he may be straightening his tie.
Lindsay looks down at her notes, puzzled. Kim stop abruptly and stomps her foot.
KIM
ARGH! That's not right!
LINDSAY
It's "HE is pouring her coffee, SHE is straightening his tie."
Kim is walking in circles.
KIM
I know, I know! I can't get it right.
MIKE
(to Lindsay)
Why don't you just give her the words, you have them right there!
KIM
Because Mike, I can't stand in front of the whole school holding the music! The play is in two days! It needs to be memorized!
STEPDAD
Then go memorize it! Study!
KIM
(yelling)
I did! You don't understand! ARGH!
LINDSAY
(to family)
Kim has really worked really hard on this, just a few days ago she had it- it's just jitters.
KIM'S MOM
You got stage fright Kimmy?
KIM
NO! Lets do it again!
She closes her eyes and starts.
KIM
(singing)
Maybe far away, or maybe real nearby, he may be pouring her coffee, she be straightening his tie. Maybe in a house, or maybe on a hill..
Kim smiles and nods at Lindsay, she is getting it right. Mike starts to pick his nose, and Kim's step dad's attention shifts back to the TV.
KIM
(singing)
He's maybe playing piano, she may be paying a bill. Betcha they're young, betcha they're smart..
Lindsay gives her a quizzical look.
KIM
What?
LINDSAY
It's "SHE'S maybe playing piano, HE'S maybe paying a bill"
Kim stares at Lindsay for a second, then Mike picking his nose, and her step dad watching tv, and her mom watching her step dad watching tv.
KIM
(throwing her hands up)
That's it, I can't do this! I'm going to have to tell Mrs. Losser to put Julie in instead.
KIM'S MOM
Really? You are just going to quit?
Kim sits down at the kitchen table, deflated. Lindsay walks over to her.
LINDSAY
(quietly)
No Kim. You can do this. You are good at it, remember? Ms. Losser saw something in you and I know she was right. You are just nervous.
KIM
If I can't even perform in front of my dumbass family, how can I do it in front of the school?
KIM'S MOM
Hey! I heard that!
LINDSAY
You can, you can perform in front of them. Listen. Just focus on me. They are in the room, but pretend it's just us. Sing the song right to me, let everyone else fade into the background.
KIM
What's that going to do? You saw me- I can't do this!
LINDSAY
Just try it once for me. Look right at me. No one else is here.
Kim gets up
KIM
Fine.
LINDSAY
Ok, Kim is going to try this one more time.
Kim looks at her mom, smacking her gum, her step dad drinking a beer, Mike pulling threads out of the blanket he has wrapped around him.
LINDSAY
(To Kim)
At me!
Kim takes a deep breath and looks right at Lindsay
KIM
(singing)
Maybe far away, or maybe real nearby, he may be pouring her coffee, she be straightening his tie. Maybe in a house, maybe on a hill.
She isn't looking anywhere else, she is smiling and singing with confidence and only to Lindsay.
KIM
(singing)
She may be playing piano, he may be paying a bill. Betcha their young, betcha their smart, bet they collect things like ashtrays and art, betcha their good, why shouldn't they be.. Their one mistake was giving up me!
Lindsay interrupts and claps loudly, Kim's mom and brother follow. Kim smiles and snaps out of a haze.
KIM
Oh my god I did it! I can do it!
LINDSAY
(rushing up to her)
I told you, I knew you could!
KIM
(smiling)
I looked at you the whole time, it's like no one else was here! It totally worked! Thank you so much!
Lindsay smiles at her.
KIM
(warning)
So you better be there, Friday night, in the front row where I can see you. I'll be looking at you the whole time!
LINDSAY
Of course!
KIM
Good!
(nodding)
Ok, alright! I'm back! Thanks to you!
INT-SCHOOL DAY
Neil is walking into the lunchroom, looking for someone. He spots Vicki, talking to a table full of jocks and approaches her.
JOCK 1
Well look who is, the coaches little son
NEIL
I'm not his son, that Bill. Actually it's not his son it's-
VICKI
(interrupts so this does not start a fight)
Hey.
(speaking quickly as if a little embarrassed)
What's up?
NEIL
Um, nothing, I wanted to give you something.
Vicki looks at him expectantly.
VICKI
Well, what is it?
NEIL
Not here, not in front of them.
He motions to the jocks.
VICKI
Ok.
She sighs and begins to walk towards the back of the lunchroom to the doors that lead outside. Neil follows, and we move to Lindsay who they pass as she carries her lunch away from the counter. Daniel approaches her.
DANIEL
(quietly, serious)
Hey
Lindsay looks up, and smirks at his serious face
LINDSAY
What's wrong?
DANIEL
Nothing, just wanted to see what you were up to.
Lindsay walks towards a table and Daniel follows her.
LINDSAY
I'm having lunch.
Daniel leans in close as he walks beside her, as Lindsay approaches the table.
DANIEL
How about we ditch lunch and go to my car?
Lindsay doesn't flinch and sits down at the table, smiling at Nick and Amy. Daniel is less suave, and suddenly stands upright.
LINDSAY
Hey
NICK
Hi
Amy says nothing. Daniel rolls his eyes and slumps down in the seat across from Lindsay, disappointed. Amy picks at her shoe and Nick is eating slowly. Daniel stares at them in silence as Lindsay arranges everything on her plate and opens her soda.
DANIEL
(annoyed)
Alright, what's wrong with everyone?
Lindsay looks up and smiles
LINDSAY
(cheery)
Nothing
Amy gives Daniel a stare before grabbing her stuff and walking away from the table without a word.
DANIEL
(to Nick)
Still hasn't heard from Ken yet?
NICK
I guess not. Hey what are you guys up to tonight? I though Daniel you could bring over your guitar, we could jam?
Lindsay opens her mouth to speak, but her and Daniels eyes meet
DANIEL
I-I-can't. We can't. We have a lot of lit studying to do. Like a lot. Biiiiiig test tomorrow.
Nick shrugs
NICK
Oh, yeah that's alright, another time. Maybe this weekend?
DANIEL
(nods)
Yeah, sure
Nick looks at the clock and stands up suddenly
NICK
Oh! I forgot, I said I would meet Stroker outside like five minutes ago. See ya!
He walks away
LINSDAY
Bye!
She watches him walk away
LINDSAY
Daniel, I can't hang out tonight
DANIEL
Come on! Why?
LINDSAY
It's the dress rehearsal for the play, I promised Kim I would be there.
DANIEL
Oh, who cares! Kim won't care if you don't show up!
LINDSAY
Yes she will
DANIEL
No she won't
LINDSAY
(firmly)
Yes she will. She needs me there.
Daniel leans back in his seat
DANIEL
Why do you want to hang out with everyone else but me?
LINDSAY
(shocked)
What are you talking about Daniel? Kim has stage fright. It calms her down to have me there. I was working with her last night-
DANIEL
Last night? When you said you couldn't go out?
LINDSAY
Are you jealous?
DANIEL
No! I'm not jealous!
LINDSAY
Listen Daniel. Since I've been with you I've kind of um, neglected people like Kim and Nick. I haven't been that great of a friend.
DANIEL
Oh, come on Lindsay, don't try and change the subject. I wanted to pick you up and you would rather go out with Kim?
LINDSAY
I'm not changing the subject. Right after you called, Kim came over, crying. She was very upset and needed help going over lines. And yes, I did help her.
Daniel shakes his head.
DANIEL
Whatever. I don't care.
LINDSAY
(matter of fact)
Obviously you do. I want to help Kim, weather you like it or not. I also want to see you. So after rehearsal, I'm going to sneak over to your house because my parents have no idea how long rehearsal is.
She smiles at him. He is pleasantly surprised.
EXT-SCHOOL LUNCHTIME
Neil follows Vicki outside, she turns around and looks at him.
VICKI
So what did you want to give me?
Neil shifts his weight uncomfortable
NEIL
Well um yesterday when we were at the mall- I mean- I wanted you to..well.
VICKI
(confused)
What?
Neil reaches into his pocket and drops the ring into her hand.
VICKI
What is this?
She turns the ring over in her hand and smiles big for a fraction of a second, and then turns serious and steps away from him.
VICKI
I know what I said about if a guy bought me this ring they would be my boyfriend, but you and I have been over this a million times and I don't-
NEIL
No, Vicki! Listen. I don't want to be your boyfriend, so you can stop worrying about that.
Vicki's face falls. She is not used to this treatment.
NEIL
We are friends. I understand that. I have enough going on in my life right now with my parents. I just saw how much you wanted that ring and I just wanted you to have it. That's all.
VICKI
But!
NEIL
I can take it back if you want.
He holds out his palm. She looks at him quizzically.
VICKI
This is a friendship gift right? Just friends.
Neil nods. And Vicki slips the ring on her finger admiring it.
VICKI
(meanly)
You can't tell anyone you gave this to me. I will deny it.
Neil is smiling
NEIL
Never.
Vicky leans forward awkwardly and pats Neil on the back in an attempt to hug.
VICKI
That was really nice of you. I love it. Thank You.
She gives him a genuine smile before walking away. Bill and Sam approach at that moment.
BILL
What was that? We saw her hugging you!
NEIL
It was nothing!
SAM
Come on Neil, that wasn't nothing.
Neil sits down on a nearby bench.
NEIL
Fine. I got her a ring.
SAM
(shocked)
What?
BILL
No!
NEIL
Yeah, the one from yesterday. I went back and got it for her.
SAM
Wow.
BILL
I guess she liked it.
NEIL
It's not what you think. It's a friendship ring.
(to Bill)
Also, by the way, those jocks think your mom and coach are married, because they called me the "coaches son".
BILL
(exasperated)
Argh! I told them they aren't married! He's just her boyfriend!
He stomps off
SAM
So, are you going to ask Vicki out? At least we can double date now.
NEIL
I'm not trying to be Vicki's boyfriend.
SAM
You bought her a ring! That's a lot of money to spend on someone who is just a friend.
NEIL
(annoyed)
I didn't-
He lowers his voice
NEIL
Sam, we have been best friends since 2nd grade right?
SAM
Yeah?
NEIL
So if I tell you something, you gotta promise not to tell anyone. Not Stacy, your mom, Bill, anyone!
SAM
(unsure)
OK..
NEIL
I stole the ring.
Sam blinks
SAM
What?
NEIL
I took it from the store. Without paying for it.
Neil exhales
NEIL
Oh wow. It felt good to tell someone that, it was killing me keeping it inside.
SAM
Wha wha- Why?
Neil shrugs
NEIL
I don't know. I wanted Vicki to have it. And I didn't have the money, and it probably only cost like two cents to make it so I'm not really hurting anybody.
SAM
Neil, you can't steal things. If people do that in my dads store he gets them arrested!
NEIL
I'm not going to get arrested, I know what I am doing.
SAM
You know what you are doing?
Neil is now trying to act cool
NEIL
Yeah, the other night, I did a dine and dash.
SAM
A what and what? I don't even know what that is!
Neil laughs condescend
NEIL
It's where you leave a restaurant without paying.
Sam looks horrified.
NEIL
I'm not saying I make a habit of it, but once in a while never hurt anybody. Ken does it all the time
SAM
Ken Miller? What?
NEIL
Yeah, so?
SAM
(starting to freak out)
You are hanging out with Ken Miller, you know his dad is in jail? That entire family are criminals!
NEIL
Ken is not a criminal, he wasn't the one who got arrested!
SAM
You just said you didn't pay for the ring, you are a criminal!
Bill starts walking back towards them holding a box of candy.
NEIL
Shhhhhhhhh. Bill's coming. You can't tell anyone. You promised.
SAM
Okay okay I won't.
NEIL
I'm serious!
SAM
I said I won't!
Bill approaches, candy all in his mouth.
BILL
You guys want a jellybean?
Neil puts his hand out as Sam gives him a sideways glance.
INT SCHOOL.
Amy walks towards the library and stalks down the hall as if she is on a mission. She passes by Daniel, who is sitting at a table talking with some other freaks. He looks up as she walks by.
She walks to a row of books labeled, "Law" and begins pulling out books. She slams them down on the table next to Daniel, causing him to jump.
DANIEL
Jesus!
AMY
Sorry.
She begins to tear open a book, flipping though the pages. He is watching her.
DANIEL
What are you doing there?
He glances at a book title.
DANIEL
Law?
AMY
Don't worry about it.
She barely looks at him, grabbing another book and flipping though the pages.
DANIEL
(he laughs, obnoxious)
I'm not worried.
Amy pauses, and then turns to him.
AMY
No, you aren't, you aren't worried at all Daniel. That your best friend has gone MIA!
She lowers her voice
AMY
His dad is in jail, and he family is a mess. And no one cares.
DANIEL
Come on Amy we don't know that for sure!
AMY
Right! All the more reason to be worried. I'm sick of finding out about my boyfriend on the news!
DANIEL
What are you trying to do with all those books?
Amy pulls out a chair and sits down.
AMY
So, I have read all these articles about what they think his dad did and it's really confusing.
Daniel nods.
AMY
Something with forged pay stubs, and fake social security numbers, check routing numbers. One paper even mentioned that Ken's name was used as an employee. Like his dad pretended he worked there, but collected his salary.
Daniel looks genuinely surprised.
DANIEL
Wow.
AMY
I'm just trying to make sense of it all. Like can he get in trouble, and what if his dad forces him to lie to the court? That's perjury! and-
DANIEL
Whoa whoa whoa, lets not get carried away.
AMY
(sadly)
You don't understand the gravity of this, do you? This could really affect his future. College.
DANIEL
(laughs)
Ken's not going to college.
Amy stares at him for a second and then stands up and begins to gather up her things.
AMY
(terse hushed)
Fine. It's obvious that you don't care. None of you do. You are so busy with your head up your own ass.
DANIEL
That's not true!
AMY
Whatever.
She walks away and Daniel is left there looking frustrated and feeling bad.
INT. DANIELS ROOM
Daniel and Lindsay are sitting on the floor close together with their backs against the bed. There are different colored jellybeans on the floor. Lindsay is separating them into piles by color, they are laughing.
DANIEL
Look how insane you are, you can't even eat these unless they are grouped in the right color?
Daniel picks a jelly bean and pops it in his mouth. Lindsay gasps
LINDSAY
No!
DANIEL
(joking)
Oh no! I messed up the system!
Lindsay giggles as he begins grabbing jelly beans and half hazard putting them in his mouth.
DANIEL
Here goes another one! And another!
LINDSAY
(laughing)
No, Daniel, stop!
His mouth is full of jelly beans
DANIEL
(with his mouthful)
mmmmgfh mmgh mmm?
LINDSAY
I can't hear you.
They both start to laugh as she smashes his cheeks together and a few jellybeans fall out. He pushes her away and she jumps on top of him, pushing him on the ground. He swallows as they come face to face.
LINDSAY
(serious now)
Sorry I got here so late
DANIEL
That's okay, you bought a good gift
LINDSAY
You liked it?
Daniel nods, and pulls her hair away from her face. Lindsay waves a jelly bean in front of his mouth. He lifts his head and takes it. She leans in and gives him a warm tender kiss. Pulling away Daniel whispers in her ear.
DANIEL
That flavor was really gross.
They both laugh, and Lindsay rests her head on his shoulder.
LINDSAY
I have to go.
Daniel lifts her head and kisses her.
INT-NIGHT NEIL'S HOUSE.
Neil is sitting in the dining room with schoolbooks in front of him. He is staring out the window. He looks back at his paper. It says "The Vietnam War". He sighs and gets up to pick up the phone.
NEIL'S MOM (OS)
Really? That's not what I heard!
Pause
NEIL'S MOM (OS)
Neil! I'm on the phone.
NEIL
(into the phone)
Sorry!
He hangs up the phone and walks to the window, putting on his jacket. He steps out the front door. He walks quickly across the street and down a few houses.
CUT TO
Neil's mom talking and laughing on the phone, she seems to be talking to a friend.
CUT TO
Neil arrives at Ken's house. He sees the front window lit up and a woman standing there. He puts his hands in his pockets and kicks the ground. He is about to walk away.
KEN (OS)
What are you doing here?
Neil jumps as Ken comes out of the shadows. He is outside smoking.
NEIL
(flustered)
S-Sorry. Hi.
KEN
(casual)
What's going on?
NEIL
So you got back to your car the other night?
KEN
Oh yeah it was fine. What are you up to?
NEIL
Writing a report on the Vietnam War. My mom was supposed to help me, but she has been on the phone all night.
His voice trails off.
KEN
I know a guy that can get you term papers for like $50 if you need one. He has them on every subject. It's legit.
NEIL
No, no thanks though. I noticed you haven't been in school- were you sick?
Ken laughs bitterly
KEN
Do I look sick?
NEIL
No. Then why-
KEN
(uncomfortable)
I just don't feel like –like dealing with people.
NEIL
What about your girlfriend- Amy something?
Ken hangs his head, suddenly sad
KEN
I don't know if she is my girlfriend anymore
NEIL
Oh.
KEN
(rushing this out painfully)
I've been kinda a dick. I haven't called her.
NEIL
Why?
KEN
I don't know. My family. This situation. It's just really really messed up.
NEIL
I told my friend Sam what we did the other night
Kens eyes go wide
KEN
Why? Why would you do that? If someone does find out then we will really get what you call trouble.
NEIL
No, no, don't worry, Sam's cool. I can trust him. He would never tell anybody. I'm sure your friends and your girlfriend would do the same if you told them what's happening.
KEN
(sarcastic)
They don't need me to tell them, it's on the news every day.
Awkward silence hangs between them again.
KEN
Anyway, see you later.
He turns and walks back to the house and Neil walks away.
INT. SCHOOL DAY
Neil is standing at his locker alone. He opens a folder and looks at the blank piece of paper from last night. He has not completed the assignment. He takes a deep breath and stares at the paper for another second before collecting his things.
He stands awkwardly in the near empty hallway. He walks towards the classroom door, pausing at the entrance. In the distance, a teacher is heard telling students to get to class. Neil glances at the double doors leading outside and then back at the classroom door. Checking to make sure there is no one in sight, he quickly slips outside.
EXT. OUTSIDE THE SCHOOL-DAY
Neil speed walks though the parking lot. Suddenly he bumps into someone. He gasps.
MR ROSSO
Neil- where do you think you are going?
NEIL
(panic)
Nothing, um no where, I- um, I just needed some air! I have a note! I have a doctors appointment.
MR ROSSO
Lets see it then
NEIL
See what?
MR ROSSO
The note. You said you have a doctors note?
Neil begins searching though his pockets but slowly gives up, just looking at the floor.
MR ROSSO
You don't have a note, do you?
Neil shakes his head
MR ROSSO
Alright, come with me.
Neil follows him inside the school.
EXT UNDER THE STAIRS- DAY
Lindsay, Daniel and Amy are talking, Kim walks by deep in thought, not noticing them.
LINDSAY
(To the others)
There's Kim
(yelling out)
Hey Kim!
Kim doesn't look up or hear her. Lindsay gets up and runs to catch up with her
LINDSAY
Kim! Hey!
Kim turns around.
KIM
Hey
LINDSAY
So. Big night tonight, you ready?
Kim swallows hard.
KIM
I think so.
LINDSAY
(insisting)
You are ready.
KIM
I will be if you'll be there.
LINDSAY
I will! I will be there.
Kim exhales and collects herself.
KIM
Thanks Lindsay. I mean it. I gotta go, we have one more run-though before the show.
Lindsay smiles and nods but as Kim runs off she looks very guilty. Turning around, she spots Ken approaching Amy and Daniel. She quickly walks back to the group.
LINDSAY
Ken! Hi! Are-is everything ok?
Ken shifts awkwardly and looks at Amy.
DANIEL
Hey man, where have you been?
KEN
(to everyone)
No, things are not okay. My father was arrested for embezzlement, and I may have to testify in court.
They all look horrified, Amy especially.
KEN
That's all I know, so everything you read in the papers, see on TV, it's not true. Or if it is, I don't know about it. Nothing has really changed, my parents are still assholes.
(looks at Amy)
Can I talk to you?
Amy stands up and nods, following Ken down the hall, Lindsay walks up to Daniel.
LINDSAY
Wow. I'm glad he came back
DANIEL
Yeah, I thought he had fallen off for good.
LINDSAY
Really? I know it's Ken, but him and Amy, they are the real deal.
DANIEL
Yeah, I saw her in the library. Even though he blew her off she was reading law books, researching for his dad's case and stuff.
Lindsay turns around and looks at Ken and Amy from a distance. He is talking to her, and reaches for her hand.
LINDSAY
It's really sweet.
Daniel smiles and attempts to grab Lindsay's hand. She is to quick for him and pulls away.
LINDSAY
(laughing)
What are you doing? Someone could see us!
DANIEL
You know I don't care
LINDSAY
Well I do.
DANIEL
Fine. Tonight, my car, six pack of beer and some Otis.
Lindsay rolls her eyes
LINDSAY
(sarcastic)
How romantic!
DANIEL
Ok, fine fine you are right. We can go to dinner first, my car second.
LINDSAY
I can't. The play is tonight. I promised Kim.
Daniel rolls his eyes.
DANIEL
Oh come on! You promised you would help her practice, practice is over!
LINDSAY
No. She needs me there and I want to be there.
DANIEL
You know Lindsay, I'm starting to wonder if you even want to be with me at all.
LINDSAY
What?
DANIEL
You are always making excuses.
LINDSAY
(defensive)
I told you, These aren't excuses! I can't just drop everything and ignore all my friends for you!
DANIEL
Why not? It wasn't a problem before!
LINDSAY
(shakes her head)
You are so selfish. The whole world doesn't revolve around you. And your penis!
DANIEL
(angry)
I'M SELFISH? What about you? You force me to hide our relationship, and I can't even hold my girlfriends hand?
LINDSAY
(in a hushed voice)
Lower. Your. Voice.
DANIEL
(loudly)
No!
A few people in the hallway look over at them. He leans in close to her.
DANIEL
(quietly)
This whole thing, Lindsay? Really what is the point?
He turns and walks away into the busy hallway
DANIEL
(yelling loudly to no one in particular, but looking at her)
What's the point?
She turns away, her eyes filling with tears as Nick approaches.
NICK
Hey, what was that?
Lindsay collects herself and wipes her eyes. She turns around
LINDSAY
No idea, I think he's high or something.
NICK
No way. Hey so I heard Ken's back, is it true?
LINDSAY
Yeah, we just saw him, he and Amy were over-
She looks over at the spot where Amy and Ken where moments before but they aren't there anymore.
LINDSAY
They were just right over there!
NICK
Okay, I'm going to go find him.
He starts to walk away and comes back
NICK
You will be at the play tonight, right?
Lindsay nods, and lets out a huge sigh as he dashes off.
INT. SCHOOL MR ROSSO'S OFFICE
Neil is sitting next to his father across from Rosso just as his mom walks in, flustered.
NEIL'S MOM
Oh! I'm so sorry I'm late, I came as soon as I got the call. What's going on here?
NEIL'S DAD
Neil was caught skipping class
NEIL'S MOM
(shock)
What? No. This must be some kind of mistake!
NEIL
(sullen)
It's not a mistake.
MR ROSSO
I caught Neil walking across the parking lot during 5th period.
NEIL'S MOM
(to Neil)
Where were you going?
NEIL
(defensive)
No where. No where.
MR ROSSO
Do you know that skipping school, even once, results in suspension?
Neil's mom gasps
NEIL'S DAD
Neil, do you understand the severity of this?
NEIL
Sure.
NEIL'S MOM
Sure? That's all you have to say for yourself? Mr. Rosso, I don't understand, Neil is a good kid.
MR ROSSO
I know.
NEIL'S DAD
(to Neil)
Why did you do this?
NEIL'S MOM
It's obvious why he did this, I've read about this in one of my books. It's because of the divorce.
(to Rosso)
My husband- my ex husband and me are currently going though a divorce.
Neil's dad rolls his eyes
ROSSO
(uncomfortable)
Oh. I'm- I'm sorry about that
NEIL
This has nothing to do with the divorce!
ROSSO
(to Neil)
So you aren't angry about it?
NEIL
(angry)
What? No! I'm not talking about this with you. I'm fine! I- I, I just didn't finish my homework, ok? The paper on the Vietnam War!
NEIL'S DAD
Why didn't you finish your paper? You know if you ever need help you can come to us.
NEIL
I guess I can't! Because mom said she would help me but she was on the phone all night!
(to his mom)
I guess you were too busy!
Neil folds his arms across his chest and his mother looks guilty
NEIL'S MOM
Neil honey I do remember I said I would help you and I'm so so sorry. But that is still no excuse to skip class.
Neil's dad lets out an audible sigh.
NEIL'S MOM
(to Neil's dad)
What?
NEIL'S DAD
Really? You were too busy chatting and gossiping with all your friends to help our son with his homework?
NEIL'S MOM
Well at least I show up.
NEIL'S DAD
That's not fair! That was an emergency!
NEIL'S MOM
Right! Nothing is ever your fault.
NEIL
(yells)
Hey! Hey, Mr. Rosso, what is my punishment, just tell me.
Mr. Rosso leans forward in his seat.
MR ROSSO
I'm going to let you off, no punishment this time. You are a good kid, and I want to give you a chance to prove that to me. You made a mistake. But if I ever catch you doing this again, you will be suspended, three days, no exceptions. Do you understand me?
Neil nods
NEIL
Yes, I won't. Thank You Mr. Rosso.
MR ROSSO
OK. Now why don't you head back to class, I need to talk to your parents.
Neil gets up and walks out, ignoring his parents.
MR ROSSO
So. As I'm sure you know, sometimes in a divorce, children can feel sidelined or ignored. As you were saying, sometimes they may act out for attention in order to get parents back together, maybe for a common cause, ect.
NEIL'S DAD
Oh. No no no, I'm not doing this with YOU.
NEIL'S MOM
Doing what? He is trying to help!
NEIL'S DAD
(standing up)
No, no offense, but I don't need to hear any of your psychobabble. I've been though enough. This divorce is almost done with and I can't discuss it anymore.
He reaches out across the desk and shakes Mr. Rosso's hand.
NEIL'S DAD
Thank you Mr. Rosso, for giving Neil a second chance. I hope we don't have to see each other again.
He offers a weak smile and exits. Neil's mom is left there alone with Rosso.
INT SCHOOL DRESSING ROOM- NIGHT
Kim is putting on lipstick by herself in the dressing room. She is wearing her Annie costume and her hair is in big, long curls. She looks nervous and stares at herself in the mirror. Suddenly, the door files open, Julie Arst is standing there. Kim whips around.
KIM
What are you doing? Every heard of knocking?
JULIE
(defensive)
Nothing. Mrs. Losser wanted me to let you know that we are on in 20 minutes.
KIM
Yeah right. You were just checking to make sure I showed up. Well I did, and I am going on tonight.
JULIE
(Acting innocent)
I know.
KIM
Did you see Lindsay out there?
JULIE
Who?
KIM
Lindsay, my friend?
JULIE
I wasn't aware you had any friends Kim.
They stare at each other for a moment.
KIM
Get lost Julie!
Julie walks away and Kim walks towards the door, looking out into the hallway for Lindsay. She shuts the door behind her and lets out a huge sigh. There is suddenly a knock on the door and she jumps into the air in surprise. Opening the door, Lindsay is standing there.
KIM
Oh my god Lindsay, thank god!
She pushes her inside and shuts the door.
LINDSAY
Hey!
KIM
That bitch Julie Arst is just dying for me to chicken out, or get sick or something.
Kim is pacing
KIM
Which I think I might do.
Lindsay sits down on a nearby chair.
LINDSAY
No, you won't. I'm here now. And you are going to do the show just for me. I can't wait.
They smile at each other.
INT-SCHOOL HALLWAY OUTSIDE THE AUDITORUM
Nick and Daniel enter the school, it is crowded with people. Daniel is looking for Lindsay.
DANIEL
Wow. There are a lot of people!
NICK
I'm telling you, it's kind of a big deal. People want to see the former freak girl be a drama geek for the night.
NICK
Have you seen Lindsay by the way? We have a plan to sit together.
DANIEL
You do? That's kind of weird.
NICK
Not really, we are friends. She has been really reaching out to me lately.
Daniel's face falls.
INT-KIM'S DRESSING ROOM
Lindsay is helping Kim, adjusting her costume.
LINDSAY
This is going to be great, I know you will do great!
Kim smiles and nods as the door flies open.
JULIE
Come on Kim, it's time.
KIM
That's right Julie, I'm going on. Which means that you, are not.
JULIE
(threatening)
Not yet anyway.
Kim takes one last look at Lindsay
KIM
Front row, right?
LINDSAY
I'll be right there.
KIM
(to Julie)
Lets go!
They exit. Lindsay begins walking down the hallway and runs into Daniel
LINDSAY
Daniel! What are you doing here?
DANIEL
I need to talk to you.
LINDSAY
(annoyed)
This isn't a good time
She starts walking and he follows her.
DANIEL
Look I just-
The orchestra music begins and Lindsay goes into a trot.
LINDSAY
Not now, okay? The play is about to start!
They run into the auditorium. Nick has saved Lindsay's seat in the front row, but there is not a seat for Daniel. He is forced to sit in a single seat far far away from them.
LINDSAY
(whispering to Nick)
Thanks!
NICK
No problem, I wasn't sure you were going to make it.
LINDSAY
Me either.
They laugh. Seeing Lindsay so happy and smiling with Nick makes Daniel very jealous, but he waits, watching them. The curtains open and Lindsay and Nick clap vigorously. Nick whistles loudly. The actor launch into "It's a Hard knock Life", Kim front and center. During a short dance sequence, she spots Lindsay and smiles. Lindsay smiles back.
FADE TO:
Kim begins the "Maybe" song perfectly, singing directly to Lindsay. When she finishes her song the crowd goes wild. Lindsay is beyond proud.
FADE TO: Intermission. Nick and Lindsay are drinking punch and eating cookies talking and laughing. Daniel approaches them.
DANIEL
(to Lindsay)
I need to talk to you. Now.
NICK
What's going on Daniel?
LINDSAY
(challenging)
Yeah, what do you want?
DANIEL
Can I talk to you?
NICK
What's the problem?
DANIEL
(to Nick)
Nothing.
(to Lindsay)
Come on.
The lights flicker, and people start to filter back into the auditorium.
LINDSAY
(to Daniel)
You have like 1 minute.
NICK
(awkward)
uhhh, I'm going back to our seats.
He walks away
LINDSAY
(to Daniel)
What?
He tries to grab her hand again and she pulls away.
LINDSAY
(anger and panic)
What are you doing?
Daniel seizes her arm, but this time she isn't ready, and she lets him guide her outside. They stop in front of a side door.
LINDSAY
I have to go.
DANIEL
(pleading)
Wait. Just let me talk, one second.
She raises her eyebrows at him. He takes a deep breath. This does not come easy to him.
DANIEL
What you said today, do you really think I haven't changed at all? That I'm selfish?
LINDSAY
Honestly, I don't know. Sometimes it feels like this whole relationship is about you. I have other friends and responsibilities, you should understand that. I mean this is supposed to be Kim's night.
INT-AUDITOURM
The second act has begun and Kim nervously glances at Lindsay's empty seat.
EXT- OUTSIDE THE SCHOOL-NIGHT
LINDSAY
(angry)
What? So I'm just expected to be at your beck and call?
DANIEL
(earnest)
No! But I wish you were.
Lindsay kicks at the ground.
LINDSAY
Well you should be more realistic.
DANIEL
Why?- Is it wrong to want to be with you?
LINDSAY
No, no! I love being with you. Being.. this close to you.
She moves close to him and rests her hands on his waist.
DANIEL
(Quietly)
I think I love you
Lindsay is taken aback. She drops her hands and swallows hard.
DANIEL
I've never said that before to anyone else and really meant it. That's what I came here to tell you.
Lindsay shakes her head in frustration.
LINDSAY
Don't say that. Not today. I feel bad enough.
DANIEL
(exasperated)
Why? Why do you feel bad?
Lindsay looks up at him with sad eyes.
LINDSAY
(sadly)
I can't believe this is happening. How did we get here? I can never tell Kim.
DANIEL
(angry)
You know what Lindsay? None of it matters. I just told you I loved you. If you feel it too, then you will tell her, you will tell her everything.
CUT TO:
Kim onstage, suddenly terrified.
ACTOR
Now Annie what would you like to do first?
Kim stands there in shocked silence. She glances over to Lindsay's empty chair.
ACTOR
(urgently)
Now Annie what would you like to do first?
Kim swallows hard
KIM
Um..
She looks over at Lindsay's empty seat again, Nick sinks low in his seat.
CUT TO:
LINDSAY AND DANIEL OUTSIDE
LINDSAY
I told you, I can't.
DANIEL
(angry)
Why? Why? Because you are afraid to loose your best friend? You can't have it all! Now who is selfish?
LINDSAY
(voice wavering)
Grow up! I'm not afraid to loose her, I'm afraid to hurt her.
(pauses)
This will really hurt her.
DANIEL
(very angry)
Oh please. Your poor "best friend Kim" Ya know, I gotta finally just say; if Kim is your best friend, then why are you screwing her ex boyfriend?
Daniel's cold words sting Lindsay
LINDSAY
Wow.
She turns away and pulls the door open leading to the auditorium. Daniel grabs her hand.
DANIEL
Lindsay, wait I'm sorry!
Lindsay turns to Daniel.
CUT TO: Kim's perspective from the stage. She sees Lindsay and Daniel in the doorframe, holding hands and having an intense conversation.
CUT TO: Lindsay and Daniel in the doorway
LINDSAY
(furious)
I was right. You are just as selfish as before. You will never understand. I'm so sick of all of this. I'm done.
DANIEL
(more angry then hurt)
You are breaking up with me?
She nods, wiggles her hand free and shuts the door in his face. It makes a sound loud enough for a few people nearby to turn. On stage, Kim is staring at Lindsay, her eyes blazing. It's silent.
Lindsay looks like a deer in headlights. She knows.