Degrassi: The New Generation

by Josh Sheats

When the body of a classmate is found floating in a pool in the cold, Canadian winter, the new generation of Degrassi students begin to retrace their steps to find out exactly what happened. Was is foul play? Suicide? Or a cover up? New Students. New Chapters. New Drama. New Generation.

1. Boom Clap

Title: Degrassi: The New Generation

Credit: Written By

Author: Milo Stuart

Source: Degrassi: The Next Generation

Draft date: 01.08.2021

Notes:

Episode 1 Boom Clap

.Scene 1

!The scene opens, fading from black, suspenseful music playing. CLARK is sitting in a chair in the interrogation room of the police station, his back to the camera, silhouetted. The camera zooms in, his panting getting louder and heavier. The camera cuts to a close up of his face, slowly zooming out. His facial expressions show he's obviously nervous and worried, subtle sweat dripping from his forehead. He's looking around the room, fidgeting, pulling on his shirt collar, tugging on his shirt. A door from off screen can be heard opening and closing. A voice from off camera can be heard. It's the DETECTIVE.

DETECTIVE

Okay, Clark. I need you to tell me what happened.

!CLARK, still panting nervously, doesn't respond nor look at the detective. The camera cuts to the DETECTIVE. He sighs, and pulls out the chair across the table from CLARK. He sits down, setting his note pad on the table in front of him. He folds his hands on the table and stares intently at CLARK.

DETECTIVE (CONT'D)

Relax. Everything will be fine. I just need you to tell me what happened.

!There's a brief pause.

DETECTIVE (CONT'D)

Can you do that for me? Just start at the beginning.

!CLARK turns to the DETECTIVE, licking and biting his lip slowly as his mouth slowly hangs open. He sighs softly. Cut to a view of a male body floating in a pool, the camera facing upwards from the bottom of the pool. Ambulance sirens can be heard slowly getting louder.

.Scene 2

!Sharp cut from scene 1. "New Beginnings" by NEFFEX begins playing. The camera pans, a couple of students walk in front of the camera towards the school, slowly revealing the school. Students are gathered in front of the school, split into various groups, some students by themselves, a school bus sits in the corner of the camera view, a welcome back banner hangs below the Degrassi Community School sign. The scene cuts and pans to a closer view of the students greeting their friends in front of the school, reuniting from their summer vacations. The camera stops in front of JACK, sitting on the steps of the school, looking at his phone. A car pulls up in front of the school. HENRI gets out of the car, her twin sister, HANNAH, following behind her, adjusting her skirt.

HENRI

(To her mom from outside of the car)

Bye, Mom! (closes the car door and turns to face the school, smiling when she notices JACK sitting on the steps) Jack! (she runs over to JACK, pushing her sister out of her way, HANNAH scoffs, pulling out her phone to check it, shaking her head)

!Jack looks up from his phone and smiles when he sees HENRI running towards him as he stands up. HENRI smiles wide, throwing her arms around JACK when she reaches him. They hug tightly, chuckling to each other as they pull away.

HENRI (CONT'D)

I'm so happy to see you!

JACK

(still slightly chuckling)

You, too.

HENRI

How was your summer?

JACK

Oh, you know, filled with video games and not going outside. Throw in the occasional swim practice and meet. The usual teen boy outcast shenanigans. (HENRI laughs)

HENRI

So, in other words, it was the best summer you've ever had.

JACK

(laughing nervously)

Yeah, something like that. (HANNAH joins them from off screen, walking up the steps, standing on the step separating JACK and HENRI)

HANNAH

A summer spent inside is a wasted summer. (HENRI smiles and rolls her eyes as HANNAH continues, boasting) I spent my entire summer by the pool, working on this tan. Gotta make a great first impression for the first day of high school.

JACK

Yeah, but I did say swim practice. I'm just trying to lay as low as possible. The last thing I need is for people to know I'm the principal's kid.

HANNAH

(Looking JACK up and down disgusted)

Yeah, good call. I can't be seen with the principal's kid. That will do some serious damage to my reputation. I can't hang around a narc.

HENRI

(Brushing off HANNAH's comment)

Jack is nothing like that. He could honestly careless about what you do.

HANNAH

Still, I'm not starting high school as a loser. I'm heading inside to find Nilo. She said she was already at her locker. Bye, losers. (She starts to walk away, but stops and turns back to JACK and HENRI for one final thought) Oh, if you see me at the assembly, don't sit with me. You don't know me.

HENRI

(Snarky)

That will be kind of hard considering we share the same face. People do talk you know.

HANNAH

Well, tell them it's just a coincidence, and you've never met me in your entire life. (HANNAH disappears off camera, heading into the school)

JACK

(Laughing with HENRI)

But we're the losers? At least we're not thirsty for peer validation. (HENRI puts her arm around him as they walk into the school)

!JACK and HENRI walk into Degrassi, HANNAH can be shown disappearing off screen in front of them. They begin walking down the hall to their lockers. They're sharing a school map, smiling as they're finding their way. Popular grade 10 girls, ELOISE and ROBIN, are walking up behind them. ELOISE brushes up against HENRI's shoulder, and she turns her head back to bark at them. JACK and HENRI stopping.

ELOISE

Watch it, niners!

HENRI

(Glaring at ELOISE and ROBIN)

I can't believe Hannah wants to be like those girls.

JACK

Those girls?

HENRI

Yeah, Hannah has been filling me in on the who's who of Degrassi, and that's Eloise Johnson and Robin Houser. Apparently, Eloise is the queen bee of Degrassi and Robin is her pathetic side kick. They're reputably mean, and since they're in grade ten, we'll be stuck with them for three fourths of our high school career.

JACK

And I thought high school being a miserable mess was just a myth.

HENRI

Buckle up, Jackie. We're in for a really shitty ride.

!The scene cuts to ELOISE and ROBIN reaching their lockers. ELOISE opens her locker as ROBIN divulges her ideas for new cheer routines.

ROBIN

(Excited)

So I was thinking of a few stunts we could add in to our routine but I think we're going need some new spotters so I was thinking-

ELOISE

No need, I've got our new changes to the routine already planned out.

ROBIN

(Disappointed)

Oh, well, I just thought-

ELOISE

(Smiling)

Well, now you don't have to. I've spent all summer perfecting the new routine. Trust me, it's Nationals guaranteed. I've also scoped out the new bachelors so we can be guaranteed dates to all of the upcoming dances this year.

ROBIN

(Curiously)

And who is on the market this year?

ELOISE

Well, Clark Cunningham recently broke up with his girlfriend over the summer because her family had to move to Vancouver for her father's job, but judging from his twitter, he's not exactly too broken up about it.

ROBIN

(Excited)

Clark Cunningham is single? I've had the biggest crush on him since the start of grade nine. He's the total package, athletic, easy on the eyes-

ELOISE

Calm down, Robin. You and Clark will never happen. You're not his type. I picked him out for me.

ROBIN

(Confused)

Well, then who have you picked out for me?

ELOISE

Duane Powers, obviously.

ROBIN

(Disgusted)

Duane Powers? He's a gross pig who macks on girls for sport. How is he my type?

ELOISE

Um, he's single and you're single. He's Clark's best friend. Double dates, couple's vacations, try to keep up, Robin. (Robin begins to challenge that response when EMILIA approaches the girls)

EMILIA

(Unamused)

Excuse me, you're in my way. (ELOISE turns around to EMILIA and smiles in amazement)

ELOISE

Oh my god! It's you.

EMILIA

(Confused)

Yeah, it's me.

ELOISE

Sorry, I just mean you're the daughter of that rich CEO of Ortica Technologies. I'm Eloise. This is Robin. We are so thrilled to be in the presence of financial royalty and beauty guru greatness.

EMILIA

Emilia. Pleased to make your acquaintance but also slightly creeped out.

ELOISE

Oh, pardon my excitement. We just never imagined that someone of your status would be gracing the halls of our no name school.

EMILIA

Well, contain it. Private school wasn't working out, so I thought I would try my hand at public school, and I'm already starting to regret it. (ETTORE enters showing EMILIA his school map)

ETTORE

(Ignoring ELOISE and ROBIN)

Hey, have you found your locker yet? I'm having a terrible time finding mine. (ELOISE and ROBIN smiling, looking ETTORE up and down)

EMILIA

I did actually, but I got bombarded by groupies before I could even open it. (ETTORE looks at ELOISE and ROBIN)

ETTORE

Oh, are you talking about these two? Maybe they could help me.

ROBIN

(Flirting)

We'd be more than happy to. (ELOISE scoffs and rolls her eyes)

ELOISE

Ignore my friend. She's clearly starved for male attention. (Robin glares at ELOISE)

EMILIA

She wouldn't be the first. This is my brother, Ettore. He has a way of making all the ladies fall for him.

ETTORE

It's a curse really, I don't even try, but it does mean I have a lot options to choose from.

ELOISE

I'm Eloise, and the girl drooling over you is my friend, Robin. If I'm not mistaken, aren't you suppose to be some sort of soccer prodigy?

ETTORE

(Blushing)

Yeah, you could say that. I've gotten a lot of offers to play for leagues in Europe, but I want to get a good education first. Just in case the soccer thing doesn't work out as planned.

ELOISE

But wouldn't you be getting a better education at a private school? I mean, no offense, but how many public high schools can you name off the top of your head?

ETTORE

(Side eyeing EMILIA, looking back at ELOISE)

Not all private schools offer the best education. Besides, I just meant it would be less of a hassle to start college after playing professionally if I already had my diploma.

ELOISE

(Flirting)

Fair enough. If you weren't so handsome, I'd suggest joining the school's debate team versus the soccer team.

ETTORE

Hey, I gotta have something to do on off seasons, right?

ELOISE

Aren't you just the cutest?

EMILIA

(Sighing in annoyance and rolling her eyes)

Can I get into my locker or not?

ETTORE

Emi, don't be rude.

EMILIA

Forgive my lack of sympathy. I would just really like to get into my locker.

ETTORE

(To ELOISE and ROBIN)

Excuse us. It was nice meeting you both. (ETTORE puts his arm around EMILIA and escorts her off screen, ELOISE and ROBIN swooning and waving)

ROBIN

(Still swooning)

Wow, he's so dreamy. Looks like I have a much better option than Duane Powers.

ELOISE

Wake up, Robin. (Shutting her locker) A guy like Ettore will never be into you. (ELOISE begins to walk away, ROBIN looking off in disappointment as she follows behind ELOISE)

ETTORE

(Softly)

Lighten up, will you? If all you're going to be is a bitch, you'll never survive the next three years here.

EMILIA

Forgive my lack of enthusiasm about being stuck in a public. I don't exactly want to be here.

ETTORE

I don't either, but who's fault is it that we're here? Not mine. (EMILIA looks solemnly) Look, just try to make some friends. I don't want to be known as the brother to the Ice Queen. (ETTORE walks off, leaving EMILIA sighing and pondering)

.Scene 3

"Bo$$day" by Don Elektron, BIA begins as the transition between scenes. ARSYN is looking into the mirror of his locker, checking himself out, fixing his eyebrows, gently touching his jet black hair to get it to lay right. He sprays cologne on his neck, and pops his shirt collar. Cut to slow motion of ARSYN walking through the hallway, starting with his back, his backpack slung over one of his shoulders, the camera slowly pans upwards to the back of his head, cutting to an upward view of his front side, panning upwards from his nice, Armani buttoned up shirt, the first two buttons undone to tease his bare chest, ending on his face, grinning confidently. The camera pans to students in the hallway eyeballing him in amazement. The music stops abruptly as ARSYN reaches the doorway to his homeroom. He looks around slightly nervous at his classmates who are all talking and goofing off. ARSYN curls his lips and sighs with confidence as he enters the classroom. He sits down at desk in the middle of the classroom. HANNAH, who is sitting with her best friend, NILO, takes notice of ARSYN and turns her body fully to face him, smiling.

HANNAH

Armani on the first day of school? (ARSYN turns to her inquisitively) Très bien. I'm loving it.

ARSYN

(Blushing slightly)

Well, you only get one chance to make a good first impression. Might as well go for it.

NILO

(Interjecting to ARSYN)

It's a lot better than the dark hoodies and skinny jeans you normally wear. (HANNAH looks back and forth between them, confused) You look really nice. (ARSYN smiles)

HANNAH

(To NILO)

Wait, you know him?

NILO

(Chuckling)

Since we were in diapers. Hannah, this is Arsyn. Arsyn, this is my best friend, Hannah. Our families are really close, and we attend the same prayer services at the mosque.

ARSYN

Not to mention our families' little arrangement. (Grins and nods at NILO)

NILO

Yeah, I'm still hoping my parents find a better prospect.

HANNAH

Prospect? (Putting the pieces together) Wait, are you guys arranged to be married?

ARSYN

It's still in the early process, but we're our families' first choices. (NILO tilts her head and grins uncomfortably)

HANNAH

(To NILO)

How come you've never told me this before?

NILO

No offense, but you wouldn't get it. People in the western world think our customs are archeaic and barbaric. Besides, Arsyn's like my brother. Do you know how creepy it sounds to be arranged to be married to a guy you see as your brother? Hello, Alabama.

HANNAH

Well, at least he cleans up nice. (ARSYN smiles at the compliment as HENRI enters, JACK trailing behind her)

HENRI

Not even one hour into the new school year, and already you're insulting someone's sense of fashion. (HENRI and JACK take their seats behind ARSYN) You just can't resist playing fashion police, can you?

HANNAH

Actually, I was complimenting this handsome gentleman's excellent choice in designer wear, Henrietta. (HENRI playfully glares at her twin sister) He's wearing a gorgeous Armani button down, the latest style I might add. Not that you would know.

HENRI

Forgive me for not having my nose buried in a GQ magazine twenty four seven.

ARSYN

Wait a minute, are you two twins?

HENRI

I don't know. (To HANNAH) Hannah, can we let him in on our little secret?

HANNAH

(Rolling her eyes and grunting in annoyance)

Arsyn, this is my twin sister, Henrietta, but I was born five minutes before her.

HENRI

(To ARSYN)

It's Henri.

ARSYN

Arsyn. Nice to meet you.

HENRI

(Nudging JACK)

This is Jack. He's not exactly the most social, but he's pretty cool.

JACK

I try to stay clear of people.

HANNAH

(Pulling out her phone)

People think he's gay because he only hangs out with girls. It's sad, really.

HENRI

(Sternly)

Hannah! (HANNAH looking away trying to act innocent)

ARSYN

Being gay is a bad thing?

HENRI

Of course not, but she also doesn't need to make comments like that.

JACK

But I'm not gay, I assure you. And even if I was, it's nothing to be ashamed of.

HENRI

Especially not in this day and age. (NILO turns away, exiting from the conversation, ARSYN taking notice)

!Mr. DEL ROSSI enters the classroom, setting his things down on his desk at the front of the classroom. He stands at the front of the classroom, placing his hands on his hips, his chest puffed in confidence.

MR. DEL ROSSI

Okay, everyone, settle down. Find your seats. (The class is slow to obey MR. DEL ROSSI's orders) Quiet! (The class falls silent) Thank you. Now, I want to welcome you to your homeroom class for the year, as well as grade nine English. Of course, today, classes are canceled, due to the welcome back assembly, but we will have time to get know each other some today as homeroom classes are extended to fill out paperwork before the assembly. (Turns behind him to pick up a stack of papers from his desk and begins to hand out the papers to the class) So, let's fill out this questionnaire to start and I'll pass around the necessary paperwork you'll need to fill out.

!The scene cuts to ARSYN at his locker, putting his books away. ETTORE approaches ARSYN's direction, intently looking at his school map. He bumps into ARSYN, sending all of his books scattering on the floor. ARSYN bends down to help ETTORE pick up his things.

ETTORE

(Embarrassed)

Oh shit! Dude, I'm so sorry.

ARSYN

(Chuckling nervously)

It's okay. Don't worry about it.

ETTORE

(Trying to quickly grab his things)

I'm having a terrible time trying to find my locker. This school is a fucking labyrinth.

ARSYN

Yeah, tell me about it. (They both reach for the same book, their hands brushing against each other, they look at each other for a moment, and then turn away, awkwardly, ARSYN picking up the book as they stand up, handing the book to ETTORE) Here.

ETTORE

(Taking the book, laughing nervously)

Thanks.

ARSYN

Fellow niner?

ETTORE

Uh, no, actually grade eleven. Just transferred here from a private school in the UK.

ARSYN

What a downgrade.

ETTORE

(Chuckling)

It's a long story, but ultimately, it was my sister's decision. She's in grade ten here. (ARSYN nods) I'm sorry, I don't know why I'm divulging all of this to you. The last thing you need to hear are my problems.

ARSYN

I'm just going to assume it's first day jitters.

ETTORE

Well, thank you for sparing me. (They chuckle at each other nervously) Well, I'd better get to that assembly. I'll see you around. You know, in the hallways because we're in separate grades. (ETTORE begins to walk away, but stops and turns back to ARSYN) Hey, um, I don't know if it's a solid plan, but my sister was talking about throwing a party tonight to get to know some of the kids here at school. If it happens, you should come.

ARSYN

(Flustered)

Oh, are you really sure you'd want a niner at your party? I mean, you probably should get to know the upperclassmen.

ETTORE

Well, one, it would totally piss off my sister, and she's not exactly in a position to really be making demands on me, and two, age is just a number. Sometimes you meet really cool people who happen to be younger than you.

ARSYN

(Blushing)

Well, if the party is a go, I'll find you for the details.

ETTORE

(Smiling)

I'll be looking for you. (ETTORE walks away, ARSYN slightly swooning as HENRI, JACK, and HANNAH approach him)

HANNAH

What were you doing talking to Ettore Ortica?

ARSYN

(Turning to the group)

Who?

HANNAH

Ettore Ortica? Soccer prodigy and heir to the Ortica Technologies fortune? Son of Giuseppe Ortica, the CEO of Ortica Technologies? The brother of beauty guru and fashion influencer, Emilia Ortica? Do you guys not pay any attention to social media stars?

HENRI

Sorry to disappoint you.

ARSYN

I didn't know he was famous. He was just telling me that he and his sister just transferred here.

HANNAH

Wait, they're both going to Degrassi? And he was talking to you?

ARSYN

Yeah? He bumped into me when I was at my locker.

HANNAH

Did you at least apologize to him?

ARSYN

Why would I? He bumped into me.

HENRI

(To HANNAH)

Hannah, lay off the third degree.

HANNAH

(Rolling her eyes)

Whatever, I'm off to find Nilo at the assembly. (HANNAH struts off)

JACK

So, are we still suppose to pretend that we don't know her?

HENRI

Probably for the best. (To ARSYN) Why don't you sit with us?

ARSYN

Me? Are you sure?

HENRI

Of course! It's a chance for you to make some new friends and get to know each other. Plus, you seem pretty cool.

ARSYN

(Blushing)

Sure, why not? (The three head off to the assembly together)

.Scene 4

!EMILIA is walking down the aisle of the chairs set up for the assembly. Students are already filling up the seats, EMILIA is looking for an empty seat. She looks over and sees an empty seat next to ROBIN and ELOISE. She sighs and rolls her eyes, and walks over to the pair.

EMILIA

Hey, is this seat taken? (ELOISE and ROBIN turn to her)

ROBIN

Of course not! Please, sit down. (EMILIA sits down next to ROBIN) Eloise and I were just talking about possibly throwing a party tonight.

ELOISE

The problem is we don't have a host. Robin's parents are super strict and my parents would just be snooping and judging. They would turn it into a five year old's birthday party.

EMILIA

Well, maybe I could host the party. My parents are out of town for the next couple of days so we would have the mansion all to ourselves, and it would be a good way to get to know people here since I'm new here. Of course, I would trust that you two with organizing the guest list. (ROBIN and ELOISE look at each other curiously)

ELOISE

A mansion party would be a great way to set the pace for the school year.

ROBIN

And with the shortened school day, we would have plenty of time to organize everything.

ELOISE

But what's our budget?

EMILIA

Oh, don't worry about that. I can cover all of the expenses. Drinks, snacks, I even have a reliable DJ on speed dial. We even have a ballroom and we could turn the living room into a lounge.

ROBIN

(Excited)

Okay, I'm in!

ELOISE

(Boasting)

I'm already setting up the e-invite. Of course, we have to keep it exclusive so no niners.

EMILIA

Fair enough. Only the coolest people in school.

ELOISE

(Side eyeing EMILIA)

Do you want to actually have people at this party? Don't worry, I got it covered. We have to invite some people with a less than worthy status, but we won't invite the bottom of the barrel either.

ROBIN

(To EMILIA)

Will your brother be making an appearance to this party?

EMILIA

Oh, I don't know. Ettore isn't much of a party goer. I'm the wild child of the family. I'll see if I can pull some strings though.

ROBIN

I have to say, your brother is so fine. (EMILIA winces slightly) Champion soccer player, devilishly good looks, charmer. He's the total package. Any girl would be lucky to date him.

EMILIA

Yeah, I can't remember the last time my brother had a girlfriend, if I'm being honest. Soccer practically takes up all of his free time and to say he's studious would be an understatement. But, I'll put in a good word. See if I can spark his interest. Maybe having a girlfriend would loosen him up a bit.

ROBIN

Ugh, to be the girl on his arm, walking through the hallways, everyone staring, it would be like a high school fairytale.

ELOISE

Oh, please, Robin. He is so out of your league. The odds of him giving a girl like you a second glance would be like winning the lottery, next to impossible. (EMILIA looks at ELOISE in annoyance without her looking, Robin starting to sulk)

EMILIA

(To Robin)

Uh, you know, if I may say this without meaning offense, the girls I have seen my brother date are of the ethnic variety.

ROBIN

(Intrigued)

Ethnic variety?

EMILIA

My parents want us to marry Italians, and my brother's past girlfriends have been anything but Italian. Plus, Ettore is a sucker for a girl with a nice smile. (ROBIN blushes)

ROBIN

Well, I hope you can pull those strings.

ELOISE

Yes, by all means, pull those strings, and brand a year of heartache for my dear friend. (EMILIA discretely glares at ELOISE) On the other hand, I already have my eye on the best year yet. (ELOISE leans over to give CLARK a smile from across the aisle, CLARK looking over at ELOISE and giving her a smile, ELOISE points to her phone indicating that he should check his, CLARK looks at his phone, and becomes excited to see an invite to the party, sharing it with his friends, ELOISE grins devilishly)

!Principal Simpson steps up to the podium from behind the curtain, tapping on the microphone.

SIMPSON

Attention, please! Everyone, quiet down. (The gym falls silent) Thank you. Welcome all to Degrassi! Now, high school can be one of the most exciting times in your lives, and it can also be one of the most difficult times. Your bodies are changing, the world as you know it is changing, and the things you once knew, suddenly feel as if you're learning them all over again. But no matter what happens, whatever challenges you may face, or obstacles you might be forced to overcome, let's make this the best year yet! I welcome you all, and good luck! And if you need anything at all, my door, and our counselors' doors, are always open.

!The scene cuts to the end of the assembly, students filing out. HANNAH and NILO are standing outside the entrance of the gym. HENRI, JACK, and ARSYN join up with them.

HANNAH

(Playing around on her phone)

That was probably the most pointless assembly I've ever attended in my life.

JACK

My dad made eye contact with me eight times. "Pride and joy..." (Mimics Principal Simpson's stare, rolls his eyes when he finishes)

NILO

On the bright side, we get to go home now.

HANNAH

(Unenthused)

Yeah, to spend the rest of the day dreading tomorrow. I haven't been noticed once to day, and I worked hard all summer on improving my wardrobe. (NATHAN comes running out of the gym, passing the group)

NATHAN

Party at the rich kids' house! We about to tear it up! Party of the year! (He disappears down the hall, DUANE and CLARK laughing behind him, high fiving each other, HANNAH over hearing the announcement)

HANNAH

(To the group)

Did you guys hear that?

HENRI

That jockish ape howling through the halls? Kind of hard to miss.

HANNAH

We have to get into that party. This could be my chance to make the first impression I've been dying to make.

JACK

I don't know, Hannah. I think it's just for the upperclassmen.

HANNAH

That's no reason for us not to at least try. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Give me one good reason why we shouldn't go.

NILO

We're niners. We'll stick out like sore thumbs.

HANNAH

Hello! Did you all forget that I'm a fashion genius?

HENRI

And yet, no one has complimented your outfit today.

HANNAH

(Shaking off her twin sister's remark)

Think about it, a party is an enclosed space. No one entirely focuses on each other while at school unless you do something scandalous like get naked for a protest or a video of you flashing your boobs getting leaked.

JACK

Yeah, that Purple Dragon protest is still a hot topic at family dinners. (Shudders)

HANNAH

We can totally pull this off! Trust me, once they see how mature and fashion forward we can be, they will be begging us to join their circle. (Smiling at ARSYN as she puts her arm around him) And with my trusty, fashionable assistant, there's no way this plan could go wrong. (ARSYN looks at her unsure)

HENRI

I can't believe we're going to go through with this.

JACK

Wait, we are?

NILO

I am kind of curious to see what a real high school party is like. I'm in. But we have to tell my parents that this is strictly school business. (They all nod in agreement)

ARSYN

(Looks over to see ETTORE flirting with ROBIN across the hallway, he turns back to his new friends)

It's worth a shot.

HANNAH

(Excited)

Oh, yes! I promise you guys, I won't let you down. We're going to be the talk of the party!

HENRI

That's for sure.

.Scene 5

!Basketball practice has just ended and the locker room is filled with the basketball team, fresh out of the shower. CLARK, DUANE, and NATHAN exit the shower, walking over to their lockers, talking about the party.

NATHAN

(Enthusiastic)

My dudes, this is going to be a sick party!

DUANE

For sure! Party at a mansion, lots of sweet honeys for the picking. I thought this kind of stuff only existed in TV and movies.

NATHAN

And like any teen movie, the jocks always end the party with a Big Bang, if you know what I'm saying. (Grins and nudges DUANE)

DUANE

You know it, and I've already got the first girl of many lined up. Robin Houser. Ooh, that girl is so fine.

NATHAN

Well, I bet you five bucks by the end of the night, I'm going to be nailing our hostess on her parents bed. Hit it so good, I'll have to cover her mouth to keep her quiet, or let the whole party know she's getting it good.

DUANE

(Laughing as he turns to CLARK)

What about you, my man? Which hottie you got your eye on giving it good to tonight.

CLARK

(Shaking his head, smiling, as he's going through his locker)

Nah, I'm not worried about all of that.

NATHAN

Ah, c'mon man! There isn't one hottie you'd like to bang tonight.

CLARK

(Chuckling)

Like I'd tell you.

DUANE

Hey, I bet he gets the queen bee to let out a little scream.

NATHAN

Yeah, somebody's gotta give that girl a good dick down. (Patting CLARK's shoulders) And I think our man, Clark, is just the man to do it.

CLARK

(Shrugging NATHAN off)

Cut it out. I'm not looking for anything like that.

DUANE

Don't tell me you're still hung up on Priscilla.

CLARK

Only a little, but I'm just not feeling jumping into bed with a random girl. Unlike you animals.

DUANE

Hey, you know what they say, the best way to get over a girl is to get under another one.

NATHAN

C'mon, man, don't be a pussy, band the pussy.

CLARK

(Laughing)

We'll see.

DUANE

(Patting Clark's shoulder)

Yeah, that's my man! (CLARK turns back to his locker and sighs softly)

.Scene 6

"Go Bananas" by Don Elektron, TT The Artist as the scene transitions. Teens are dancing in the ballroom of the Ortica's mansion, the DJ blasting music. CLARK is dancing with his friends as ELOISE dances her way over to him. She catches CLARK's eye and he looks her up and down with interest as they start dancing on each other, ELOISE's back to him. They're smiling as they dance.

ELOISE

(Turning to face him)

You've got good moves.

CLARK

You're not so bad yourself.

ELOISE

I've had practice.

CLARK

Oh yeah? What kind?

ELOISE

Play your cards right, and you might find out. I'm Eloise.

CLARK

I know. You were in my English class last year. Clark.

ELOISE

I know. Everyone knows who you are. It's hard not to know the star basketball player. Among other sports.

CLARK

You flatter me.

ELOISE

I know, that was the point. (Puts her arms around his neck as she pulls him, sharing a kiss, CLARK's friends watch on, high fiving each other)

!Scene cuts to EMILIA entering the kitchen, setting her cup on the counter. She leans on the counter and sighs heavily. She looks over at the vodka bottles and ponders for a second. She grabs one of the bottles and starts pouring a lot of vodka in her cup. ETTORE passes by and notices what she's doing.

ETTORE

(Approaching her)

What the hell are you doing? (Grabs her wrist to make her stop)

EMILIA

It's a party, Ettore. (Pulls her wrist from his grip) What do you think I'm doing? (ETTORE sighs)

ETTORE

You know you're not suppose to be drinking. Or did you forget how we ended up at this school?

EMILIA

Relax. I'm watching myself.

ETTORE

Yeah, you're the last person I'd trust watching you. (ETTORE storms out of the kitchen, EMILIA turns back to her cup, bites her lips, and takes a big gulp, wiping her chin)

!Scene cuts to HANNAH, HENRI, JACK, NILO, and ARSYN standing outside of the mansion door. HENRI and JACK are nervous, HANNAH is eager to get inside, NILO and ARSYN remain indifferent.

HENRI

Should we ring the doorbell?

HANNAH

And get kicked out before we even enter the party? No way. (HANNAH reaches for the door handle)

HENRI

Wait! (HANNAH stops, grunting as she turns to her twin sister)

HANNAH

(Annoyed)

What?

HENRI

Are you sure this outfit is really me? I feel overdressed.

HANNAH

That's because you don't have taste. Trust me, you look hot.

HENRI

I'd rather look like me. You can't possibly think anyone would like this.

JACK

I must admit, I'm having doubts, too. I mean, what if someone in there knows I'm the principal's son and goes back and tells my dad?

HANNAH

You both need to stop overthinking this. I know you both are used to swimming in the kiddie pool, but take a deep breath and dive into the deep end.

HENRI

But I don't like the deep end.

NILO

Oh, for crying out loud. (NILO pushes HANNAH and HENRI aside and opens the door)

!They all enter the party, looking around at the stunning mansion, filled with fellow classmates, some dancing, some talking and drinking, a few making out. HANNAH stares in amazement as they walk through the foyer, HENRI and JACK obviously uncomfortable. Some of the classmates turn and watch the group walking in, some with confused looks, some with looks of disgust. They enter the living room and look around at everyone gathered.

HENRI

It's like a zoo in here.

JACK

I was going to say a safari park without the car, but a zoo is a pretty close second.

HANNAH

(excited)

Look at all these people! I feel like we're finally cool!

DUANE

(From the couch, noticing the group that just walked in)

Hey! Who invited the niners? (Everyone turns their attention to the group, EMILIA walks into the living room, following the looks of everyone else, she purses her lips in anger as she walks over to them)

EMILIA

Who invited you? (The group looks at each other nervously, ETTORE enters the living room and watches what's going on from afar)

HENRI

(Flustered)

Uh, it was the mop top with the dimples! (Points to NATHAN across the room, EMILIA briefly looks at him and then back at the group)

EMILIA

This party is no niners allowed, now get out of here.

HANNAH

Please, don't kick us out. Clearly, we were invited by mistake, but we're a lot of fun, and very mature for our age.

EMILIA

Yeah, I'm sure you are. Now, scram.

JACK

Look, this party is really important to our friend here. She's been looking forward to this all day. Please, don't take it away from her. She really is pretty cool. (ETTORE starts to make his way over)

EMILIA

Touching. Get out. (Points to the door)

ETTORE

Let them stay, Em. It's not going to hurt anything. (ARSYN starts to get nervous when ETTORE comes over)

EMILIA

Rules, Ettore. We agreed no niners at this party. They can come back next year.

ETTORE

Yeah, and next year it will be no teners. Come on, let them stay. (EMILIA shakes her head, and sighs in annoyance, ETTORE whispers in her ear) I'll tell Mama and Papa what you've been doing tonight. (EMILIA bites her lip, and turns back to the group)

EMILA

Fine. You can stay. But behave.

JACK

We're not animals. (Henri nudges him)

EMILIA

I'm serious. As soon as you start causing a problem, you're out. All of you. Got it? (They all nod, ETTORE walks away, back into the kitchen, HANNAH squeals quietly with glee and disappears with NILO into the living room, EMILIA turns away and walks over to the couch, rubbing her forehead)

DUANE

(From the couch)

You're seriously going to let them stay. (EMILIA looks back at HENRI, JACK, and ARSYN, and then at ETTORE as he just leaves the room)

EMILIA

Let's just say that my parents don't exactly know what I've been up to tonight, and my brother is a suck up.

DUANE

I didn't think Mr. Soccer Star was a tight wad.

EMILIA

Yeah, I didn't think so either. I guess people can surprise you. (EMILIA disappears into the ballroom)

ARSYN

(To JACK and HENRI)

I'll be right back. I'm going to find the bathroom. (JACK and HENRI nod as ARSYN makes his way into the kitchen)

!ETTORE leans on the counter and inhales sharply. ARSYN stands in the doorway behind ETTORE. He pauses for a second.

ARSYN

Need some help? (ETTORE turns around and smiles slightly)

ETTORE

Uh, no, I'm good thanks. (ARSYN approaches him and stands next to him, ETTORE turns around and leans against the counter) I'm sorry about my sister. She's never really been good with talking to people.

ARSYN

(Kidding)

She's charming. Hard to believe she's a successful beauty guru.

ETTORE

Meh, that Emilia online is not the Emilia in real life. If she had it her way, she'd have all of you escorted out by police and charged with trespassing.

ARSYN

So, why did you let us stay? (ETTORE laughs)

ETTORE

Well, I did say I would get you in, didn't I?

ARSYN

Yeah, you did. But what's the real reason? Something tells me there's a little more to your age is just a number excuse.

ETTORE

(Hesitating for a moment)

Because not everyone is who we think they are. (ARSYN nods) Take my sister. She seems like an absolute delight on social media, but even she has skeletons in her closet.

ARSYN

Is that so? (ETTORE nods) Well, we all have skeletons, the problem is, not everyone can handle them. I guess that's why they stay skeletons.

ETTORE

Well, some skeletons are better left in the closet, don't you think?

ARSYN

Depends on the skeleton. (ETTORE looks at him curiously, ARSYN gets closer to him) Like for instance, for my family's sake, and my own, it's best I stay in the closet. (ETTORE looks at him surprised)

ETTORE

No way. You? (ARSYN nods) And you're fine with telling this to a total stranger.

ARSYN

You have a point there. I guess I need collateral. Who are you? I mean, who are you really? (ETTORE sighs and looks back at ARSYN)

ETTORE

I guess that's a skeleton better left in the closet. (Raises his eyebrows)

ARSYN

(Grinning)

I had a feeling. (ETTORE chuckles) I knew there was more to your age is just a number excuse. (ROBIN smiles and stands in the other doorway to the kitchen behind ETTORE and ARSYN, she looks at them curiously, her smile fading as she was hoping to get ETTORE alone)

ETTORE

I guess I'm not too good at making it obvious, which is a good thing, what with my parents being strict Italian catholics.

ARSYN

You have some subtle signs.

ETTORE

Psh! Like what?

ARSYN

Like the way you're looking at me. (ETTORE looks at him for second then chuckles and blushes, turning away)

ETTORE

And how exactly am I looking at you?

ARSYN

Like you know you shouldn't be looking at me the way that you are. (ETTORE gulps, ARSYN leans in closer, ROBIN still watching from afar, intrigued) This party is kind of lame. Why don't we get out of here?

ETTORE

And do what exactly?

ARSYN

Go for a walk. Dust off those skeletons.

ETTORE

I can't just leave the party, my sister is counting on me.

ARSYN

There you go again. Avoiding doing something you know you shouldn't. (ARSYN eyes ETTORE) Would you rather stay here, being your sister's bitch, and remember this night as being one of your most miserable ones yet, or do you want to go do something fun that you'll remember for the rest of your life. (ETTORE sighs and looks away, ARSYN starts making his way out of the kitchen, he stops and turns back to ETTORE, tilting his head curiously, ETTORE smiles and joins him as they head out of the door, ROBIN still watching confused)

ELOISE

(To ROBIN, breaking her trance)

There you are! I've been looking for you. Come on, I want you to meet Duane. (Tugs on her arm and pulls her on to the dance floor to DUANE) Duane, this is my friend, Robin. She's had a crush on you ever since the start of grade nine. (Robin slightly glares at ELOISE, quickly shaking it off)

DUANE

Really now? Well, I guess the feeling is mutual.

ROBIN

(Fake laughing)

Yeah, mutual, something like that.

DUANE

Well, hey, it's kind of loud in here, maybe we could take this somewhere private. Get to know each other better. (Brushes ROBIN's leg, ROBIN pulling away)

ROBIN

I'd rather stay on the dance floor. I've suddenly got the urge to dance. (DUANE moves closer to her)

DUANE

(Seductively)

I can get down with that.

ROBIN

(Trying to pull away)

Good. Let's dance. (ROBIN dances with DUANE, visibly uncomfortable but DUANE and ELOISE ignore her expressions)

ELOISE

(To ROBIN)

I knew you'd guys hit it off. (ROBIN smiles uncomfortably, ELOISE smiles and looks across the room, at CLARK, she approaches him, both exchanging grins, ELOISE whispers in CLARK's ear) Meet upstairs in five minutes. Second door on the left. (They grin at each other as ELOISE walks away)

!EMILIA is standing against the wall of the ballroom, unenthused as she takes a sip of her drink. NATHAN approaches her smiling, thinking he's going to put the moves on her. He places his hand on the wall above her head.

NATHAN

(Grinning)

So, what does your parents' room look like? (EMILIA glares him, scoffs, rolls her eyes, and walks away, leaving NATHAN baffled, calling after her) I bet their bed is big and comfy! Lots of space to roll around in!

.SCENE 7

!ETTORE and ARSYN are walking down the street at night, the neighborhood is practically dead. They're talking and laughing, walking closely together but not holding hands, barely brushing against each other.

ARSYN

So, our newest school celebrity is gay?

ETTORE

(Chuckling nervously)

I never said that I was gay. You just insinuated that I am.

ARSYN

So, what then? Bi? Curious? Sexually fluid? (Both laughing)

ETTORE

Let's just say, heteroflexible for now.

ARSYN

Sounds like you're in denial.

ETTORE

Hey, I've had a lot of girlfriends just so you know.

ARSYN

So have a lot of closeted guys. When was the last time you had a girlfriend?

ETTORE

I don't know, three years ago, maybe.

ARSYN

Any particular reason why you haven't dated since then? What, did she break your heart beyond repair?

ETTORE

(Laughs)

No, actually I broke hers. (ARSYN looks at him curiously, ETTORE sighs) There was this guy that I roomed with at my school in the UK, and he's the only guy I've ever felt those kinds of feelings for. I don't know why, there was just something about him that I liked. I can't explain it. I found myself just wanting to be close to him, in the same way she wanted to be close to me. Well, one night, I found out he felt the same way about me, so we decided to do some exploring, and right before he got down to it, she walked in on us, buck naked, on top of each other.

ARSYN

Ouch!

ETTORE

I begged her not to tell anyone, told her I was confused, and that it was better if we just took some time apart for me to figure things out.

ARSYN

And you never went back.

ETTORE

I felt like total shit for leaving her like that, but I didn't know how to tell her that I didn't want to be with her.

ARSYN

And the guy?

ETTORE

Ended up getting together with some guy from our chemistry class a few days later. I guess he didn't feel as strongly for me as he thought. It ended up biting me in the ass, I guess. (ARSYN grows quiet, ETTORE looks at him) What about you?

ARSYN

(sighs)

Well, my parents are from Iran, but my little sister and I were born here in Canada. The picture perfect Muslim family, from the outside. There was this boy at the mosque we went to, he was in the closet, too. In Iran, being gay is seen as a sickness, and it's even punishable by death. They're called honor killings, so we had to be super discrete, tradition follows you, you know? We would meet in secret, make out, fool around, never went all the way, sadly. I loved him. One day, he didn't show up at prayer services, he stopped returning my texts, I never heard from him again.

ETTORE

Oh my god! Was he murdered?

ARSYN

That's what I thought. But Nilo, one of my classmates, eventually told me that she heard that his father had found some content in his room, and they moved away before anyone found out. Nilo, by the way, is the only person who knows about me. She's kind of like a sister. We've known each practically our whole lives.

ETTORE

I can understand why. (ARSYN stops and pulls a small bottle of cranberry juice from his pocket and hands it to ETTORE, ETTORE takes it, confused) What's this? (ARSYN ignores his question as he pulls out a joint and a lighter, ETTORE's eyes widen) What are you doing?

ARSYN

Lightening up the mood. (ARSYN inhales as he lights the joint, taking a couple of puffs and hands it to ETTORE) Relax, it's legal.

ETTORE

Yeah, but the club bans it. They do random drug tests, I could be kicked out, my life would be over.

ARSYN

That's what the cranberry juice is for. Flush it out of your system. I can tell you don't smoke, it shouldn't stay in your system more than a few days. (ARSYN motions for ETTORE to take the joint, ETTORE looks at the joint for a second and takes it, he inhales deeply, coughing hard as he exhales, ARSYN laughs) Easy, Snoop Dogg. Take a couple of little puffs to start. (ETTORE does as ARSYN tells him, taking a few little puffs) Now the next one you take, hold it for a second and inhale it into your lungs, then exhale. (ETTORE does as instructed, his eyes widening in surprise)

ETTORE

Wow!

ARSYN

Good stuff, right?

ETTORE

Something like that.

ARSYN

Hold that. (Walks over to the gate of a community swimming pool, ETTORE looks at him confused, ARSYN starts climbing the gate)

ETTORE

What are you doing? (ARSYN sits on the top of the gate and jumps down on the opposite side, unlocking the gate to let ETTORE in)

ARSYN

Going swimming, duh.

ETTORE

What? We'll get caught.

ARSYN

Not at this time of night. (ETTORE hesitates then follows ARSYN into the pool)

!ARSYN starts taking off his shoes when he reaches the deck, ETTORE watching from behind him. ARSYN takes off his jacket.

ETTORE

We shouldn't be here.

ARSYN

(Taking off his shirt)

Relax. Take a couple more puffs. What, you've never been skinny dipping? (Unzips his pants, and takes them off)

ETTORE

Uh, no, never. (Smiling and looking ARSYN curiously)

ARSYN

(Grins at ETTORE)

So live a little. (Slides off his underwear, ETTORE looks away smiling, ARSYN grins, ETTORE looks back at him as ARSYN turns around, ETTORE trying to discretely look at ARSYN's butt while taking a puff, ARSYN jumps into the pool, he breaks surface, shaking his hair and grins at ETTORE) Well? You coming in or what?

ETTORE

(Grinning)

This is crazy!

ARSYN

Yeah, but fun. Come on! (ETTORE grins at ARSYN for a second, their eyes locking)

!ETTORE throws the joint on the ground and puts it out with his shoe. He starts to take off his clothes, ARSYN watches eagerly. ETTORE stands in front of ARSYN in nothing but his underwear.

ARSYN (CONT'D)

It's not skinny dipping if you're still in your underwear. (ETTORE grins and shakes his head, slowly taking off his underwear, both of them not breaking eye contact. ETTORE shakes his underwear off of his ankle and walks to the edge of the pool, jumping in, breaking surface right in front of ARSYN, they look into each other's eyes)

ETTORE

Now what?

ARSYN

What do you think?

ETTORE

(Shaking his head as he smiles)

You're trying to seduce me.

ARSYN

I don't think I'm doing much trying.

ETTORE

I told you, I don't swing that way.

ARSYN

Then why did you follow me out of the party? (ETTORE stares at him, his mouth slightly a gaped and eager) Why did you just get in the pool, naked? (ARSYN moves closer) Watching me undress.

ETTORE

We can't be doing this.

ARSYN

Yeah, I know, but it's just another skeleton to add to the closet, right? (They move closer to each other, their faces barely touching, looking into each other's eyes)

ETTORE

(Short of breath)

Yeah. Another skeleton. (ETTORE leans in and kisses ARSYN briefly, pulling away, looking back at him, the tension building, ETTORE grabs ARSYN by the back of his head and pulls him in, they kiss passionately, their bodies rubbing against each other)

!The scene cuts to CLARK walking through the upstairs hallway, looking around at the decor, trying to find the second room on the left. He stops in front of the door and pauses for a moment. He sighs as he opens the door, to find ELOISE on EMILIA's bed in nothing but her bra and panties, looking at CLARK seductively. CLARK grins eagerly.

CLARK

What's this?

ELOISE

Small talk is so overrated. I'm not that kind of girl.

CLARK

So, what kind of girl are you?

ELOISE

(Grinning mischievously as she stands up)

The kind of girl who gets what she wants, when she knows what she wants. (She moves closer to CLARK) And what I want is a nice, toned, brown haired guy. (She rubs against CLARK slowly unbuttoning his shirt as CLARK watches her, grinning eagerly) I don't know about you, (sliding CLARK's shirt off his body, revealing his chiseled physique) But I came here to have a good time. (Unbuttons and unzips CLARK's pants, looking into each other's eyes, grinning)

CLARK

And what does this good time entail?

ELOISE

(Grinning at CLARK as she takes off her bra, exposing her breasts)

You ask too many questions. (They begin making out)

!"Should I" by Erotic Market begins playing as CLARK throws ELOISE onto the bed, continuing to make out. He slowly slides off her panties as he kisses her neck. CLARK starts thrusting, implying that they're having sex, both panting heavily as the scene transitions to ETTORE and ARSYN back at the pool. ETTORE and ARSYN are making out as ETTORE sits on the edge of the pool, ARSYN straddling him, implying that ARSYN is riding ETTORE. They're making out aggressively, breathing heavily. The camera pans from the edge of the pool, barely viewing their naked bodies as it sinks into the water.

.Scene 8

The camera makes a sharp cut, intense music beginning to play. The camera pans down from the right, slowly revealing ETTORE's face, face up floating in the pool, unconscious with a black eye. Cut to ARSYN walking out the back door of the Ortica mansion. He's solemn. He looks up at the pool and see's ETTORE's body floating in the pool. He squints, trying to get a better look at who it is as he moves closer. Suddenly, he stops, realizing it's ETTORE. He starts panicking.

ARSYN

Ettore. Ettore! (He turns back to the mansion, shouting) Jack! Jack! Help! (ARSYN turns back around and starts running towards the pool, he dives in and starts dragging Ettore's limp body to the edge of the pool)

!JACK walks out of the back door, followed by HENRI, HANNAH, and NILO, confused as to what's going on.

JACK

Arsyn, what's- (JACK's eyes widen as he sees ARSYN struggling to drag ETTORE's body to the edge of the pool, he turns back to HENRI as he starts running to the pool) Call 9-1-1! (HENRI pulls out her phone and begins dialing, trying to keep her cool)

!JACK dives into the pool, helping ARSYN get ETTORE's body to the edge. ARSYN gets out of the pool they reach the edge, taking both of ETTORE's arms and pulling upwards as JACK pushes ETTORE's torso onto the deck, then pushing his legs sideways onto the deck.

HENRI

(On the phone as people from inside the party start coming out to see what the commotion is about) Hello? Yes, we need an ambulance, right away. There's an unresponsive teenage boy in a pool, and I don't think he's breathing.

!ARSYN and JACK position ETTORE face up on his back, readying him to perform CPR.

JACK

(Checking for injuries)

No sign of spinal injuries. Stay back! (ARSYN backs off a bit to give JACK space, trying to hold back tears)

!EMILIA emerges from the frightened crowd looking onwards. Her eyes widen in shock as she realizes it's her brother.

EMILIA

(Screaming)

Ettore! (She starts to run, only to be held back by HANNAH and NILO) Ettore!

HANNAH

(Holding EMILIA back)

EMILIA! NO! (EMILIA tries to fight back HANNAH and NILO's hold)

EMILIA

Let me go! That's my brother! (She breaks free, running towards JACK and ARSYN)

!JACK gives ETTORE mouth to mouth, as ARSYN quickly gets up to hold EMILIA back.

ARSYN

(Holding EMILIA back)

Emilia, stay back! (ARSYN struggles to hold back a hysterical, drunk EMILIA)

EMILIA

Let me go, Arsyn! Let me go! Ettore! (ARSYN puts his arms around her tightly, as they both begin to sob uncontrollably)

!JACK starts doing chest compressions on ETTORE as ambulance sirens slowly start getting louder in the background. The party all watches on in worry.

HENRI

(Softly to herself)

Come on, Jack. You can do this.

!The camera angles at JACK continuing to do chest compressions. The camera cuts to ETTORE's body slowly moving up and down as JACK performs the compressions.

DETECTIVE

(From off screen)

Come on, Clark.

!The scene cuts back to CLARK and the DETECTIVE in the interrogation room. The camera zooms out on CLARK's face and then cuts the DETECTIVE sitting across from him.

DETECTIVE (CONT'D)

What happened to Ettore Ortica?

!CLARK, mouth still a gape and panting, slowly looks up at the camera and lets out a heavy sigh. The music intensifying as the scene sharply cuts to black.

END EPISODE