Opening Montage
Music: "Who Says You Can't Go Home" by Bon Jovi, featuring Jennifer Nettles
We first see Quinn boarding a train. She takes her seat. Jim sits next to her. They have a conversation. Next, we see a train arrive in Lawndale. Quinn gets off. This is followed by Quinn and Jim on a date. Next, we see Chuck and Stacy's wedding. This is followed by Daria and Jane looking at an eviction notice, which leads to a scene of Daria moving back in with her parents. Next, we see Jim proposing to Quinn. This is followed by a shot of Stacy holding a newborn baby. Next, a shot of Quinn and Jim's wedding. Then we see Kevin playing with his kids while Brittany makes out with Daryl in the background. This is followed by Quinn making a "Smores 'n' Pores" video. Next, we see Quinn and Jim at the hospital with newborn triplets. Next, we see the boys as six year olds while Quinn is chatting with Lindy, Stacy, Sandi and Brittany. Next, a shot of Jim, Mack, Chuck, Chris and Kevin drinking beer in the back yard. Final shot is Jim taking out the trash. Quinn and the boys join him. This pans out to a group picture of them and all of their friends. Below them, we now see...
"Life After Thirty"
Ep. 26
"Business Boom, The Aftermath"
written by
WildDogJJ
Act I
Scene 1
Ext. Shot: Philadelphia Skyline, day
Int. Shot: Tom Sloane's executive suite at Grace, Sloan and Paige
Tom is seated at his desk doing some work despite the fact that it's Saturday. He hears a distant sound of thunder.
Tom: (thought VO) Strange! The forcast was for clear, pleasant weather today.
Something out of the corner of his eye catches his attention. He stands up and looks out his window. Cut to his POV and we see a commanding view of the Philadelphia skyline. We can even see across the Delaware River into New Jersey. Out in New Jersey is a distant plume of black smoke. Cut back to third person. Tom stares in wide eyed shock.
Tom: (thought VO) That pillar of smoke's coming from Lawndale!
Frantic, Tom picks up the office phone and calls his wife, who's at home in Lawndale.
Tom: Tori, it's Tom. What happend!? I can see the smoke all the way from here.
He listens. His jaw drops.
Tom: There was an explosion at Allmart!?
Ext. Shot: Allmart (what's left of it, anyway)
The scene is chaotic. Fire fighters have successfully put out the blaze and are now combing the wreckage for survivors. Cut to Quinn frantically talking to one of the firemen.
Quinn: (panicked) Please, my husband was in there! YOU HAVE TO FIND HIM!
Firefighter: We're going as fast as we can, ma'am.
Cut to the collapsed stage. Firefighters and police are digging through the wreckage. Suddenly, one of them looks up.
Firefighter: I'VE FOUND THEM!
The band are pulled out of the rubble. Trent and Jessie are both alive, but look really roughed up. Trent even has a gash across his forehead.
Jessie: Whoa, dude!
Trent said nothing but looks haunted. Cut behind him and we see why. Max has a rafter skewered right through his heart and Nick's body is literally torn in two, his guts spilling out. They're both dead. Cut back to the store. A firefighter emerges with two people holding on to him.
Firefighter: I'VE FOUND TWO SURVIVORS!
Close up shows them to be Chuck and Ultra. They're holding onto the fireman bacause they each seem to have the use of only one leg. The firefighter lays them each on a stretcher as paramedics look them over. Chuck has a jagged piece of debris piercing his right foot. Stacy runs up to them.
Stacy: CHUCK! THANK GOD!
She runs up to her husband and hugs him.
Chuck: AAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!
Stacy releases him.
Stacy: Baby, what's wrong?
Paramedic: Your husbands injuries are a pierced right foot and broken ribs.
Chuck says nothing but winces in pain. Ultra, meanwhile, has a bruised and swollen right forearm. A paramedic rolls up his pants. Ultra's left shin immediately swells and bruises form. He has both a broken arm and a broken leg.
Ultra: (weakly) L...Lauren...wh...where's Lauren?
Cut to another area of the building. A voice comes from behind some rubble.
Firefighter: (VO from wreckage) I'VE FOUND ANOTHER LIVE ONE!
He emerges from the destroyed building. The survivor with him is Mack. Mack has a lot of cuts and bruises, but is otherwise fine.
Mack: Thanks. Did anyone else make it?
Firefighter: We're still searching.
Stacy, having seen Mack, runs up to him.
Stacy: Chuck made it. He has broken ribs and a pierced foot, but he's gonna be okay.
Mack: What about Jim and Tiffany? They were both in there when it happened.
Stacy gasped. Cut to another section. Quinn, her boys, and Sandi are nervously awaiting news. A firefighter emerges from behind a section of wall that's still standing.
Firefighter: I FOUND TWO MORE SURVIVORS!
From behind the wall emerge Jim and Lauren. They have a few minor cuts and bruises but otherwise appear to be fine, at least physically. While Jim appears to be calm and collected, Lauren is shaking so violently that Jim has to hold her up and help her walk. Her face is frozen in an expression of pure terror. Jim turns to the firefighter.
Jim: Get this young lady to a paramedic. She's in shock.
While the firefighter escorts the traumatized Lauren to the EMT's Quinn and the boys run up to Jim.
Tommy, Timmy and Teddy: DAD!
They all hug him.
Jim: It's alright, boys. I'm okay.
The boys let go and Quinn hugs him. She cries tears of relief on him.
Quinn: JIM, THANK GOD YOU'RE ALIVE! I...sniff...I was so scared I'd lost you!
Jim: It's alright, Quinn. It's gonna be alright.
Scene 2
Cut to some time later. Quinn, Sandi and Stacy nervously await any news about Tiffany. A firefighter emerges holding a charred purse. He sees the three and approaches them.
Firefighter: Excuse me, but do any of you ladies recognize this purse.
All three gasp in horror.
Sandi: Th...That's Tiffany's purse!
The firefighter now looks very grim.
Firefighter: The contents survived intact. It belonged to the gas and electric department manager, a Tiffany Blum-Deckler.
A frightened Stacy holds back tears.
Stacy: a...and?
Firefighter: We found the purse at the center of the blast. We've been finding charred remains scattered nearby. I'm sorry, but they appear to be all that's left of Miss Blum-Deckler. Once again, I'm sorry.
Tears begin to stream down Stacy's face.
Stacy: No! NO!
She collapses on her knees and cries uncontrollably while Quinn and Sandi stare in utter shock and disbelief.
Sandi: T...Tiffany!
Quinn: Dead!
They begin to cry as well as a horrific truth sets in, Tiffany is dead.
Scene 3
Ext. Shot: Cedars Of Lawndale, day
Int. Shot: A waiting room
Kevin, Brittany and Lauren are waiting for an update on Ultra's condition. Ultra is suddenly brought out by nurses. He's in a wheelchair while his right arm is in a sling and his left leg is in a cast. His parents and girlfriend run up to him.
Brittany: MY BABY!
She runs up to Ultra and hugs him. He's visibly embarrassed.
Ultra: Aww, Mom! I'm okay.
Kevin: You sure, champ?
The nurse turns to Kevin.
Nurse: Your son's lucky. His only injuries are a broken arm and a broken leg. (She spots Lauren.) And you are...?
Lauren: His girlfirend. I was in the blast, too.
Ultra looks puzzled.
Ultra: Weren't you breaking up with me when it happened?
Lauren runs up to Ultra and hugs him.
Lauren: I was just upset. When I think about how we almost died...(she shakes and a stray tear runs down her cheek) ...I can't think about that. I just wanna help take care of you now.
Kevin: Come on, let's go home.
Lauren: I'll meet you guys there. I need to do something here first.
Brittany: What?
Lauren: I wanna make sure Mr. Carbone's okay.
Ultra: Why?
Lauren: Because if he didn't pull me into cover with him I'd be dead or mangled right now. He saved my life.
Cut to a nearby waiting area, a short time later. While Jim is being checked out by the doctor Quinn and the boys are waiting. Quinn is visibly conflicted, torn between being relieved that her husband's alright and saddened that Tiffany's dead. Lauren approaches them.
Lauren: Hi, Mrs. Carbone. Hi, boys.
Quinn looks up.
Quinn: Lauren, what brings you here?
Lauren: I didn't get a chance to thank your husband earlier.
Quinn: For?
Lauren: Saving my life.
At this point, Jim comes out of the examination room. Quinn and the boys immediately rush toward him and hold him in a group hug.
Quinn: Well?
Jim: I'm fine. A few cuts and bruises, but otherwise fine.
Quinn: Are you sure?
Jim rolls his eyes.
Jim: Ask the doctor if you don't believe me.
Quinn: Okay, physically, you're fine. Are you sure you're okay otherwise?
Jim suddenly wants to change the subject. Seeing Lauren gives him the perfect opportunity.
Jim: Lauren!? What are you doing here?
Lauren: Mr. Carbone, if you hadn't pulled me into cover when you did I don't know how I'd be right now. You saved my life. Thank you.
The boys look at their father in awe.
Tommy: Dad, really!?
Timmy: You're a hero!?
Jim: No, I just did what any decent person would've done. I knew what was about to happen so I ducked for cover and pulled the nearest person into cover with me. Lauren just happened to be that person.
Lauren: You still saved my life.
She walks up to Jim and kisses him on the cheek.
Lauren: Thank you.
Quinn: Jim, are you sure there isn't anything you need to talk about? I mean, you almost died.
Jim clearly does not want to talk about this as he feels it would be unmanly to admit being traumatized.
Jim: Well, that's the thing about dying, either you do or you don't. I didn't.
Quinn decides not to press the issue. She turns to Lauren.
Quinn: How are your parents holding up?
Lauren: They're out of town on business and my brother's spending the weekend with my grandparents. They don't know about any of this. In fact, could you guys give me a ride and drop me off at the Thompson's? I don't wanna be alone after what happened.
Quinn: Of course.
Scene 4
Ext. Shot: Casa Carbone, night
Int. Shot: Master bedroom
Jim and Quinn are both asleep. While Quinn sleeps peacefully Jim is tossing and turning in his sleep. Cut to his dream.
Int. Shot: Allmart, just before the explosion.
Jim and Chuck are trying to mediate the argument between Lauren and Ultra when...
Jim: What's that hissing sound?
Lauren stops struggling.
Lauren: I hear that hissing sound too.
Chuck sniffs the air.
Chuck: Why does it smell like someone's about to have a cookout in the store?
Jim tries to pinpoint the source of both the hissing and the odor. His eyes go wide as he realizes it's coming from the grill department.
Jim: OH...MY...GOD!
He instantly grabs the nearest person, which happens to be Lauren, and ducks behind the electronics counter just as a wall of flame rushes toward them. Using his body to shield Lauren from the blast Jim looks up and can't see Chuck or Ultra. The force of the blast knocks down the shelf behind the counter. The counter itself stays standing and prevents the shelf from crushing Jim and Lauren. The result is that both are completely shielded from the blast. Lauren curls up into a fetal position and screams as she hears the destruction all around her. Only one word comes to mind.
Lauren: ULTRAAAAAA!
Int. Shot: Quinn and Jim's bedroom
Jim wakes up drenched in a cold sweat. He screams.
Jim: AAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
The scream instantly wakes Quinn. She sits up and sees a terrified, sweat soaked Jim sitting up next to her. She immediately springs into action and grabs her husband.
Quinn: Jim! Jim, it's alright, you're safe!
Jim immediately calms down. He looks at Quinn.
Jim: Sorry, I didn't mean to wake you.
Quinn: It's okay, Jim. That must've been one hell of a nightmare. You wanna talk about it?
Jim looked away from his wife.
Jim: No.
Quinn can tell he's trying to put up a brave front.
Quinn: Did you dream about the explosion?
Jim: (curt) No.
Quinn ignores his tone and tries to get him to open up.
Quinn: Jim, it's okay. Nightmares are perfectly normal after a traumatic event. Remember when Jeffy went crazy and shot you before killing himself?
Jim: Quinn, that was ten years ago.
Quinn: Remember the nightmares I had afterward.
Jim immediately tries to change the subject.
Jim: Quinn, I can handle surviving an explosion. If anyone should be messed up it's you. Tiffany was your friend and she died.
Quinn: Jim, I am messed up about that. The only reason I don't seem like that is because I'm busy worrying about you.
Jim turns away from Quinn and lays back down.
Jim: (curt) Don't!
Quinn sighs as she knows he absolutely won't talk about it. Close up of Jim's face. He looks haunted.
Jim: (thought VO) Chuck and Ultra were right there. I could've pulled them to safety and I didn't. Granted, they lived, but if they hadn't then their blood would be on my hands. Chuck has broken ribs and a maimed foot, Ultra has a broken arm and a broken leg, and it's MY FAULT!
Scene 5
Ext. Shot: High Hills Park, day
While Daria watches the boys and their friends at the playground Quinn and Sandi sit on a nearby bench talking.
Quinn: Sandi, how are you holding up?
Sandi sighs.
Sandi: Not very well, Quinn. T...Tif...(tears start to run down Sandi's face)...Tiffany's...dead...sob...I...sniff...she's gone...GONE!
Snadi grabs Quinn and sobs uncontrollably on her shoulder. Quinn tries to soothe her friend only to start crying herself.
Quinn: I...sob...I know...sob...oh...sniff...Tiffany.
They both continue to cry for their deceased friend.
Ext. Shot: Casa Carbone, later that same day
Int. Shot: The kitchen
While Quinn, Daria and Sandi are out with the kids Jim is cooking Sunday dinner. He has all the ingredients out for his Sunday Gravy (meat heavy tomato sauce). There's a frying pan on the stove so he can cook the sausage and braciole (brah-zhoull, cheese and garlic butter tied in flattened flank steak). He should've started hours before but the stove is a gas stove. He's been nervously staring at the controls the whole time. Close up to show him looking nervous, breathing heavy and sweating profusely.
Jim: (thought VO) Nothing to be afraid of. I've done this countless times before.
Cut to Jim's POV. He truns the stove on. The stove bursts into flames. The flames rush toward Jim.
Jim: NNNOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
Cut back to third person and we see the stove isn't even on. Jim, however, is acting as if he's burning alive. He screams in pain.
Jim: AAAAAAARRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
Cut to what Jim sees. He believes he's being burned alive by flames that consume the whole house. Cut back to third person and we see a physically unharmed Jim fall to the floor and roll around as if he were burning alive.
Jim: AAAHHHHHH! I'M BURNING UP! AAAAAHHHHHHHH!
Cut to the front door. We see Quinn and Daria enter with the boys, having returned from the park. Quinn hears the screams of pain.
Jim: (VO, off screen) AHHHHH! NOOOO! BURNING ALIVE! AHHHHHHHH!
Quinn: JIM!
She runs to the kitchen to find Jim curled up in a fetal position and shaking like a leaf.
End Act I
Act II
Scene 1
Ext. Shot: Casa Carbone, day
Int. Shot: The kitchen
Jim is cowering in a fetal position on the floor while a visibly concerned Quinn, Daria, Tommy, Timmy and Teddy look on. Quinn immediately rushes to her husband and gently shakes him.
Quinn: Jim! JIM, LISTEN TO ME! You're going to be alright!
The sound of Quinn's voice snaps Jim out of it. Quinn looks up at her sister, who responds by speaking to Quinn and Jim's sons.
Daria: Boys, let's go upstairs and play some video games.
Daria and the boys leave the kitchen. Quinn helps Jim up and leads him to the kitchen table. They both sit down.
Quinn: Jim, what happened?
Jim: (nervous) N...Nothing. I...um...I slipped and fell, that's all.
Quinn doesn't believe him.
Quinn: Jim, the stove gave you a panic attack. You were screaming that you were on fire.
Jim: (defensive) No, I wasn't.
Quinn refuses to let up.
Quinn: Yes, you were. You thought the stove was gonna blow and you panicked.
Jim rolls his eyes.
Jim: Great! Now you think I'm either a coward or just plain crazy.
Quinn: Jim, you're not a coward, but you odviously need help.
Jim: So it's crazy, then.
Quinn puts a hand on Jim's shoulder.
Quinn: Jim, you're not crazy. You had a very traumatic experience. What's happening to you now is actually normal.
Jim: Do normal people have vivid nightmares that make them wake up screaming? Do normal people freak out when they try to make dinner?
Quinn: They do when they've been traumatized.
Jim: (angry) I'm not traumatized!
Quinn: (insistent) Yes, you are, and that's okay! How could you not be traumatized after what you went through?
Jim: One of your oldest friends died in that explosion and you're handling it just fine.
Quinn: No, I'm not! At the park I couldn't stop crying about what happened to Tiffany, neither could Sandi and Stacy's so beside herself with grief that she can't even function right now. Tiffany's dead and that fact has been eating away at me nonstop. The only reason I'm not having a total meltdown is because I'm too busy worrying about you. At least I can admit I'm having a hard time. Why can't you?
Jim looks thoughtful.
Scene 2
Ext. Shot: Lawndale Memorial Gardens, day
Music: "See You Again" by Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth
It's Tiffany's funeral. The ceremony isn't an open casket due to the condition of Tiffany's remains. Her coffin is draped in flowers. Close up shows it to be covered in photos of Tiffany when she was alive as well. Cut to the mourners. They include Jim, Quinn, their boys, Sandi, Stacy, Chuck, Chuckie, Q, Lindy, Chris, their baby Jason, Ultra, Lauren, Kevin, Brittany, Kevin Jr., Daryl, the Wang family and many others. Cut to a shot of Tiffany's father, a white man wearing a yamulka, and Tiffany's mother, and Asian woman. Mr. and Mrs. Blum-Deckler talk to no one as they are so distraught at the loss of their daughter that they seem almost zombie like in their mannerisms. Cut to reveal Daria and Jane among the mourners.
Jane: I always knew I'd come back to Lawndale for a funeral. Never thought it'd be Tiffany's, though.
Daria: Yes, we're mourning the death of someone we gave less than a damn about in life. I admit, it's terrible what happened and sad that she's gone, but it's not like she was our friend.
Jane: And we're missing Sick, Sad World.
Daria: No, Jane. I'm beginning to think we're on it.
Cut to a raised podium behind Tiffany's coffin. Several mourners are lined up to deliver their thoughts on the life of Tiffany Blum-Deckler. Stacy goes first. As she stands at the podium she is visibly trying to hold it together.
Stacy: T...Tiffany was my first real friend. When we met we were both four years old and had just started pre-school. It seems so long ago, but I remember it like it was yesterday. She was wearing a pink dress with Jem and the Holograms on the front. Sh...She...SHE ASKED ME IF IT MADE HER LOOK FAT! WAAAHHHHHHHHH!
Stacy can't continue. She runs from the podium sobbing uncontrollably. Sandi takes the podium next. She looks utterly devastated.
Sandi: I first met Tiffany at a time in my life when I was desperately lonely. I was repeating fifth grade. I had no friends in the class. A group of girls approached me during recess that day. Stacy was one, Tiffany was another. They asked me to play with them. Desperate for friends I accepted the invitation. I was soon friends with both Tiffany and Stacy. They introduced me to all of their other friends and they became my friends as well. Tiffany helped me become popular. She wasn't a bright girl, but there was something about her that just drew you in and made you want to be there for her. I became both her friend and protector. When I decided to start a Fashion Club during my teenage years there was never any question that Tiffany would be in it. She knew her limitations and always looked me to guide her. It was nice to be wanted, but with Tiffany I was both wanted AND needed. She became like the sister I never had. And now...now...sniff...SHE'S GONE! GONE IN A FREAK ACCIDENT! I COULDN'T PROTECT HER THIS TIME AND NOW SHE'S DEAD!
Now it's Sandi who runs away from the podium crying tears of both grief and guilt. It's obvious that she blames herself for Tiffany's death. The next person at the podium is Quinn.
Quinn: I first met Tiffany early in my freshman year of high school. My family had just moved here from Texas and the first new friends I made were Stacy and Sandi. Through them I became friends with Tiffany as well. For the next three years we were in Fashion Club together. This fostered a strong bond among us, a bond similar to that among soldiers who've served together in combat. It wasn't always easy. We'd disagree and fight more times than I care to admit, but it never changed the fact that we were a sisterhood. Sometimes, sisters fight. I know because I have an actual sister and we constantly fought growing up, but we always loved each other despite that. The same was true in the Fashion Club. We may fight, we may act like we can't stand each other sometimes but we were always there for each other when it counted. After high school some of that closeness evaproated. Tiffany was in LA to pursue acting while I was going to college in New York. We grew reacquainted when we both returned to Lawndale. Over the years we'd drift apart more than once, but always found our way back to each other. And when we did it would feel like there was no lost time, no estrangement. I loved Tiffany like a sister. Now...sniff...Now, she's gone. Our next reunion will be on the other side of the pearly gates.
Quinn breaks down and cries as she leaves the podium. The last person to speak is, to everyone's surprise, Chan Wang.
Chan: I only know Tiffany Blum-Deckler for short time. At first, I no like Tiffany. I thought Tiffany stupid and clueless. Then, I see how much that cluelessness embarrass my neighbor Jim Carbone. Because of that, I grow to love Tiffany like sister. I love how Tiffany's clueless nature make my stupid guido neighbor blush. Now, Tiffany gone and I have huge hole in my heart. Who make Jim blush with idiocy now? It not fair! Why Tiffany die and not idiot guido neighbor!? IS WORLD WITHOUT TIFFANY WORLD WE WANT TO LIVE IN!?
He cries uncontrollably. Cut to Jim rolling his eyes.
Jim: (thought VO) Leave it to Chan to use a funeral as an opportunity to get in a cheap shot at me.
Scene 3
Ext. Shot: Tiffany's funeral, a short time later
The mourners are now lined up to approach Tiffany's coffin. One by one they place a whit rose on the coffin and silently say their final goodbye to her. First comes Stacy.
Stacy: (thought VO) Tiffany, you were my first friend. You were more than my friend, you were like my sister. I miss you, Tiffany. The fact that you're gone breaks my heart to no end. I'll never forget you and I'll always love you.
Stacy places her rose on Tiffany's coffin and walks away crying. Cut to her son, Chucky.
Chucky: (snarky monotone) Mom's grieving.
The next one to place a rose on Tiffany's coffin is Sandi.
Sandi: (thought VO) Tiffany, I should've been there. I could've saved you. That's what I always did, protect you from yourself. Did I do that? No. I wasn't there. If only I'd been there I wouldn't be burying you now. You'd still be alive. I was selfish. Even when we were kids I was selfish. You depended on me and I used you for my own selfish, petty ends. I'm sorry for that. I'm sorry I wasn't there to save you. I'm sorry for everything. I never made it up to you, and now I'll never have the chance. I'm sorry. I'd do anything to bring you back.
Sandi places the rose on Tiffany's coffin and walks away crying. Quinn comes up to the coffin.
Quinn: (thought VO) If only we'd spent more time together. If only I didn't let circumstances constantly push us apart. Now it's too late. I hope there is an afterlife, and if so, I hope we see each other again when it's my time. I miss you, and I'll never forget you. I'll never let us constantly drift apart in the next life like we always did in this one. I love you. Goodbye, my dear friend.
Quinn places the rose on Tiffany's coffin. The next one is Lauren.
Lauren: (thought VO) I didn't know you at all. We only met once and it was under very awkward circumstances. That doesn't matter. I'm still sad that you didn't survive the explosion. If only Mr. Carbone could've saved you like he saved me. Whatever your faults, you didn't deserve this.
Lauren places the rose on Tiffany's coffin. Next up is Ultra.
Ultra: (thought VO) I'm, like, sorry you're dead. You were hot!
He places the rose on the coffin. Next is Ultra's father, Kevin.
Kevin: (thought VO) Dude, I can't believe you were blown up. I wonder if a blown up body looks as cool as it does in the movies.
Seized by morbid curiosity, Kevin actually opens Tiffany's coffin. He turns white as a sheet as he learns first hand just how horrific a sight the remains of someone who died in an explosion are.
Kevin: glug...ulp...gulp...urp...hmf...BLEEEEEAAAAACCCCCCCCHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
He vomits right into the coffin. Quinn, Stacy, Sandi, Lindy and Ming see this and have just one reaction.
All: EEEEEEEEEEEEEWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!
Scene 4
Ext. Shot: Thompson house, evening
Music: "The Middle" by Zedd, Maren Morris and Grey
Int. Shot: Ultra's room
The room is full of sports memorabillia while the walls are covered in posters of video game characters, sports icons (including a big one of Tom Brady) and scantily clad bikini models. In other words, it's a typical teenage jock's room. Ultra is laying in bed watching TV. His arm is in a cast and sling while his leg is in a cast. Lauren lays next to him. They're both fully clothed and above the covers. Ultra tried to slide his good hand down Lauren's pants but she stops him.
Lauren: Not tonight, honey.
Ultra: Why, babe? I have a broken arm and leg, but my...(his voice takes on a suggestive tone)...other parts work just fine.
Lauren: Ultra, your Mom and your brother and sisters are home.
Ultra: We'll be quiet, babe. Dad's at a clown gig and Mom's working out with Daryl. She won't even hear us.
Brittany: (VO, from master bedroom) OH...YES...DARYL, YES...GIVE IT TO ME...GIVEITTOME...
Ultra: Looks like he's making Mom do another hard one. Babe, would you torture yourself to stay hot for me?
Lauren gives Ultra a pitying look. While Ultra's just as clueless as his father Lauren knows what Brittany and Daryl are REALLY doing.
Lauren: (under her breath) I'm never doing that to you again.
Ultra: What was that, babe?
Lauren tries to look as innocent as possible.
Lauren: Nothing, hon.
Ultra thinks nothing of it while Lauren silently chides herself for almost letting it slip that she once slept with another guy behind Ultra's back. Now, she looks serious.
Lauren: Ultra, do you ever think about the future?
Ultra: You mean when I'm starting for the New England Patriots?
Lauren rolls her eyes.
Lauren: I meant us. Do you think we'll still be together in twenty years?
Ultra: Duh, Lauren! You're my babe. Why do you ask?
Lauren: Ultra, we almost died a few days ago. If it wasn't for Mr. Carbone and Mr. Ruttheimer we probably would've died. It's got me thinking about us, where we're going. I realize now just how suddenly life can end. What if one of us died in that explosion?
Ultra: But we didn't die. You're fine and my bones will heal before the start of next season.
Lauren tries to keep from getting too emotional.
Lauren: Ultra, if you'd died I'd be devastated. I don't know what I would do without you. I love you.
Ultra: I love you too, babe.
Lauren: You wanna get married?
Ultra's eyes go wide.
Ultra: Babe, we still have senior year and college!
Lauren: I don't mean now, we're only seventeen. I mean do you think we'll be married someday.
Ultra breathes a huge sigh of relief.
Ultra: I guess. Is that what you want?
Lauren: Yes, and I want you to stop cheating on me.
Ultra: I don't mean to cheat, babe, it just happens.
Lauren: Please, promise me. Promise me that when you meet another hot girl you'll at least try to think of what it'd feel like if I hooked up with another guy, even if it was just a one time thing.
Ultra now feels guilty.
Ultra: I'm sorry I made up with that other chick. I promise I won't do that anymore. I love you.
Lauren smiled.
Lauren: I love you too, babe.
They kiss.
Ultra: I hope we get married one day. After all, my parents went out in highschool and Mom's still totally in love with Dad.
Brittany: (VO, from master bedroom) OH, DARYL...YOU'RE A WAY BETTER LOVER THAN KEVIN...YES,YES,
Scene 5
Ext. Shot: Lawndale High, a few evenings later
There's a sign out front that reads "PTSD support group meeting tonight".
Int. Shot: One of the classrooms
A support group for PTSD sufferers is meeting. The man chairing the group is a tall, skinny man with gray hair and glasses.
Group leader: Welcome, everyone. As most of you know, I'm your group counselor, Dr. Sullivan.
Cut to the group. Most are combat vetrans. Three of them are Jim, Trent and Jessie.
Dr. Sullivan: We have three new people joining us tonight. Trent Lane, Jessie Moreno and James Carbone. All three are survivors of the recent explosion at Allmart. Trent, would you like to begin?
Trent stands up.
Trent: Mine and Jessie's band, Mystik Explosion...gotta change the name...were playing a gig in the Allmart parking lot when the explosion happened. The whole stage collapsed on us. Our drummer, Max, and our bassist, Nick, were crushed to death and I've been having intense nightmares about it since then.
Cut to Jim, who stands up as Trent sits down.
Jim: My name is James Carbone, but everyone calls me Jim. I was inside the Allmart when it happened. My friend and I were trying to mediate a dispute between a teenage couple. I heard the hissing, smelled the gas and my instincts kicked in. I took cover behind the counter, pulling one of the teenagers in with me. We all survived, but my friend and the other teenager were seriously injured.
Dr. Sullivan: And you feel guilty?
Jim says nothing but his eyes confirm this to be the case.
Dr. Sullivan: Survivors guilt is common in your situation. So's fear.
Jim takes offense.
Jim: I'm no coward!
Dr. Sullivan: There's no shame in it, Jim. It's hard to think what'll happen to your wife and kids if suddenly you aren't there anymore.
Jim: But...
Suddenly, there's a hissing sound. Just like the one made by an open gas valve.
Jim: (thought VO) Oh, no!
Trent: Take your time, Jim.
Jessie: Yeah.
Jim: We don't have time!
Dr. Sullivan: Jim, you're safe now.
The hissing sound gets louder.
Jim: Don't you hear it? There's a gas leak! We need to get out of here, NOW!
Jim grabs Trent and Jessie and tries to drag them out of the window. He has a panicked look in his eyes as he does.
Jim: DAMMIT, DON'T JUST SIT THERE! THIS PLACE IS GONNA BLOW!
Jessie and Trent slip out of Jim's grip.
Trent: Jim, take it easy man!
Jim: WE HAVE TO GET OUT NOW OR WE'LL ALL DIE!
Jim takes one of the chairs and uses it to smash open a window.
Jim: COME ON! NOW!
He leaps out the window and takes cover in a nearby bush. Inside the classroom the door opens. In comes a janitor with a spray can of air freshener.
Janitor: If you're wondering about the hissing sound, someone had to use the bathroom and didn't make it in time. I'm just trying to get rid of the smell.
End Act II
Act III
Scene 1
Ext. Shot: Casa Carbone, day
Int. Shot: The living room
Quinn and Jim are sitting down and talking about what happened at the group meeting.
Jim: You wouldn't believe it. A guy uses a can of air freshener and I act like a bomb's about to go off. It was so humiliating.
Quinn: Jim, I know what you're going through. The shooting incident at Chez Pierre still bugs me sometimes.
Jim: Was the fear and guilt this intense?
Quinn nodded.
Quinn: It was. Even now I can't help blaming myself. If I hadn't led Jeffy on all through high school maybe he wouldn't have gone insane, shot you and killed himself.
Jim: Quinn, it wasn't your fault. You did the same thing to Joey and Jamie and they turned out okay. Granted, Joey was a womanizing jerk who ruined Sandi's life but he probably would've turned out like that anyway.
Quinn: That's what I tell myself. With help it didn't take me long to realize I can't let guilt and fear rule my life.
Jim looks thoughtful. Cut to later on in the kitchen. Jim is staring at the stove. He's visibly nervous and sweating profusely.
Jim: You can do this.
Shaking, he reaches to turn the stove on. His hand is shaking violently. Jim looks absolutely terrified. Finally...
Jim: I...I...I CAN'T!
He turns and runs out of the house.
Scene 2
Ext. Shot: Thompson house, day
Jim, Mack, Chuck and Kevin are sitting on the porch drinking beer. Chuck has crutches with him because his foot is still in a cast. Jim looks solemn while both Mack and Chuck are in high spirits.
Chuck: Now that Allmart's gone Feisty IT is back in business. No more taking orders from immature punks!
Mack: I hear that. I've reopened MacKenzie automotive and I've got more customers than ever. That explosion was a blessing in disguise.
Chuck: I just wish Tiffany had made it so I could thank her for blowing up that hell hole.
Jim sighed.
Jim: You guys ever think about dying?
Mack: Jim, I was in that explosion too. I consider the fact that I lived a gift.
Chuck: I owe you my life, Jim.
Jim raises an eyebrow, which Chuck notices.
Chuck: Jim, if you and Lauren hadn't figured out what was going on Ultra and I wouldn't have ducked for cover. We would've just stood there and been either consumed by flames or torn apart by the blast. You saved us.
Jim looks curious.
Jim: You aren't mad that I saved Lauren and not you.
Chuck: First off, she was closest to you so of course it makes sense that she's the one you'd take into cover with you. Your reaction convinced me and Ultra to do the same thing. You saved us both.
Mack: Jim, I ducked in time. You didn't need to save me. I was in another part of the store anyway. You didn't do anything wrong.
Jim: I'm just wondering what would happen to Quinn and the boys if I suddenly died.
Kevin: I'll take the kids, Jim. Quinn's on her own, though. I already have a babe.
Jim: Kevin, if anyone takes in the boys it's gonna be my brother or Chuck and Stacy.
Pan over to the other side of the fence. Tommy, Timmy, Teddy, Kevin Jr. and Michelle were eavesdropping. Timmy is especially distraught by what they overheard.
Timmy: Th...They said Dad was okay.
Teddy: He is okay.
Tommy: Yeah. Dad's so tough even an explosion couldn't kill him.
Timmy looks upset.
Timmy: Then why's he talking about death?
Kevin Jr. shrugs.
Kevin Jr.: I dunno!
Teddy: Dad just wants to know we'll be okay if something does happen to him.
Timmy: B...But why?
The other kids clearly don't know how to answer that. Back on the Thompson's porch Ultra joins them. Lauren pushes his wheelchair.
Kevin: Have a beer, son?
The other's look disapprovingly at Kevin as he hands his 17 year old son a beer.
Ultra: Thanks, Dad.
Lauren walks over to Jim.
Lauren: Mr. Carbone, can I talk to you privately for a minute?
Jim let's out a resigned sigh.
Scene 3
Int. Shot: The Thompson's living room
Jim and Lauren are seated on the couch and talking.
Lauren: Mr. Carbone, how are you holding up?
Jim gives the teenager a curious look.
Jim: What do you mean?
Lauren: I've been thinking a lot since the explosion, which is weird since I'm a cheerleader. It's not like I'm a brain or anything. I've been thinking about life and how uncertain everything is. You saved me. You saved us all. I heard you guys talking out there. It's true, my life isn't the only one you saved that day. You saved my boyfriend and Mr. Ruttheimer too.
Jim: Weren't you in the process of breaking up with Ultra?
Lauren nods.
Lauren: This helped us both put things into perspective. Ultra and I both decided that we love each other enough to give it another try.
Jim smiles.
Jim: I hope it works. You two actually do make a nice couple.
Lauren: Thanks. Jim, what about the fear?
Jim raises an eyebrow.
Jim: What do you mean?
Lauren: That explosion changed me. I realized that life is a precious gift and we almost lost ours. I also know that it's made me afraid of losing my life or someone I care about losing theirs. I was wondering if you're reacting the same way.
Jim opts for honesty.
Jim: I'm scared, scared of what'll happen to my wife and kids if I'm suddenly not around anymore.
Lauren: Don't be. You saved my life. I can never fully repay that debt but I'm damn well gonna try. If something happens to you I'll be there for Quinn and the boys. We all will. Even if you didn't save my life I'd probably do that.
Jim's more than a little surprised by this level of maturity from a 17 year old.
Jim: Really!?
Lauren: You've been so nice to me since I started dating your neighbor's son. My parents are neglectful yuppies who try to overcompensate by spoiling me rotten. When I had questions about sex you and Quinn were both honest and non judgmental about it. Whenever Ultra and I had problems you two were there just to listen. You've become even more of a family to me than my own family. If something happened to you I'd be there for Quinn and the boys. We all would. Besides, that explosion was a freak accident. What're the chances something like that'll happen again?
Jim has a look of sudden clarity on his fact.
Jim: (thought VO) She's right! I shouldn't be so scared. What happened was a one in a million set of circumstances. (out loud) Thanks, Lauren. Hearing someone say that helps a lot.
Lauren smiled.
Lauren: Jim, I think we're all actually gonna be okay. (she stands up) What do you say we get back out there before everyone starts getting the wrong idea?
Jim stifles a laugh.
Jim: Let's.
Scene 4
Ext. Shot: The Thompson's front porch.
Lauren and Jim have rejoined Kevin, Ultra, Mack and Chuck outside.
Jim: So, while it's tragic what happened to Tiffany it was still a freak accident. Not like mass explosions are a regular occurance around here.
Everyone nods in agreement. Jim is visibly relieved that he finally has a handle on things. Suddenly, Quinn runs up to them and looks panicked.
Quinn: JIM!
Jim senses his wife's panic.
Jim: What's wrong!?
Quinn: Timmy's run away!
Jim's face goes white with terror. Cut to a short time later. Jim has the family dog, Stripe, on a leash while Quinn has a candy bar from the stash in Timmy's room. She holds it in front of Stripe's nose.
Quinn: Come on, Stripe, sniff. That's a good girl.
Stripe looks up Bealer Street and starts tugging on the leash in that direction.
Jim: Okay, she's locked on Timmy's scent.
As they run off Jim calls back to Quinn.
Jim: WISH ME LUCK!
Scene 5
Ext. Shot: High Hills Park, sunset
Timmy's at the playground sitting on top of a tower that's a combination slide, jungle jim and swing set. He watches the sunset with a frightened look on his face when...
Jim: (VO, off screen) TIMMY!
Timmy looks down and sees Jim with Stripe.
Jim: Mind if I join you?
Timmy's too distraught to answer. Jim ties Stripe's leash to the tower and climbs the ladder. He sits next to his son.
Timmy: How'd you find me, Dad?
Jim: I had Stripe sniff some candy from your stash. She led me all over the neighborhood several times. Finally, we ran into Mr. Lobinskie and he told me you were here.
Timmy nods in understanding.
Jim: Timmy, why'd you run off like that?
Timmy: I'm scared, Dad. You were almost killed in an explosion and then I heard you talking about death with Mr. Thompson, Mr. Ruttheimer and Mr. MacKenzie. I guess it freaked me out. I'm scared of you dying, Dad.
Jim understands.
Jim: Timmy, you're seven years old. You should be playing with your brothers and friends, going to school and occassionally annoying me and your mother with your youthful hijinks. My death should be the last thing on your mind.
Timmy: So, you aren't going to die?
Jim: Not for a long time. None of us are. What happened at Allmart was a freak accident. You know why they call them freak accidents?
Timmy shakes his head.
Jim: Because they're so rare that if they happen once they never happen again. Yes, everyone dies but do you know what people like us usually die from?
Timmy looks at his father and waits for the answer.
Jim: Old age, and that's a long time off.
Timmy: How long?
Jim provides some examples.
Jim: Grandpa Jake and Grandma Helen are both almost 70 and they're as healthy now as they've always been. Nonna (Jim's mother) is 67 and doing just fine. Grandpa Tony's 73 and he's not dying anytime soon. My own grandfather lived until he was 81. I'm only 38.
Jim takes a breath before continuing.
Jim: Timmy, what I'm trying to say is you shouldn't get so worked up worrying about something that isn't going to happen to any of us for a very, very long time.
Timmy smiles.
Timmy: So, you're going to be all right?
Jim smiles back.
Jim: Of course. You have a whole bunch of great things ahead of you and your mother and I plan on being there for all of them.
Timmy looks at his father with expectant eyes.
Timmy: You promise?
Jim: I promise.
Father and son hug.
Timmy: I'm not in trouble, am I?
Jim: No, I'm just glad you're okay.
Timmy: I guess we should go home now.
Jim looks to the west.
Jim: Actually, let's stay a little longer. The sunsets are beautiful this time of year.
Father and son continue to watch the sun set and are visibly content.
End Credits.
Next Time
Jim's uncle, Vito, utters a shocking family secret after having too much wine.