"Twelve hours at a Train Station" |
"Twelve hours at a Train Station" |
ACT ONE FADE IN: EXT. TRAIN STATION - GATE 4 -- EVENING ANGLE ON the horizon which shows a beautiful time-lapse sunset. (The
sun is already about half hidden behind the horizon before
it falls completely out of sight.
The scene is interrupted by a train which pulls into view. OVER THE LOUD SPEAKER WE HEAR ARNIE - STATION ATTENDANT (O.S.)
"Now arriving Amtrak #315 from Boston
arriving at gate number 4."
CAMERA PULLS BACK - ESTABLISHING - to reveal the gate area of the train station. Few people
are actually standing around. Those who are, are obviously
waiting for someone on the train. As the train comes to a
stop, 10-15 people get off the train, most being greeted by
someone. A moment goes by as everyone walks inside the
building leaving the area empty.
Just as the last door shuts to the building, we see COURTNEY
WILLIAMS, a beautiful twenty eight year old woman, who peers
her head out the train door, looking around as if she is a
little shy. Seeing nobody left or right, she steps out onto
the platform. She carries only one beat up shoulder bag.
She only takes a couple of steps before looking at her watch
then up at a giant clock that extends out from the building,
just above her head.
The old hands of the clock read 5:15. Courtney doesn't hesitate before she enters into the train
station.
CUT TO: INT. TRAIN STATION -- CONTINUOUS - ESTABLISHING - As Courtney enters the Train Station we notice the fact that
the place is virtually empty. There are, however, a few
people like the man emptying a trash can and the man at the
pay phone.
Although it has only been a few minutes, she double checks
her watch, looking around again, she spots the doors to the
front of the building. Walking over to the doors, she peers
out.
CUT TO: EXT. TRAIN STATION - FRONT OF, -- CONTINUOUS - ESTABLISHING - Courtney peers out obviously looking for someone, but the
only person here is a Santa Clause standing next to a
Salvation Army bucket ringing a very annoying bell.
Courtney is very surprised to see a Santa Clause in the middle
of Spring. Both look at each other as she returns inside.
ANGLE ON the door closes CUT TO: EXT. CONNOR JACKOBSEN MANSION -- EVENING ANGLE ON The door to a jet black limousine is opened ANGLE PULLS BACK to show WILLIAM the Chauffeur opening the door. Out steps
CONNOR JACKOBSEN, dressed in a hideous orange and blue outfit,
something that we might see on a LA Rapper. There are traces
of red, white, and blue paint on his face and in his hair
also. Although he looks like an idiot, Connor is a very
handsome 31 year old man.
CONNOR
Thank you William, Sarah is going to
be picking me up tonight, so why
don't you take the rest of the evening
off.
WILLIAM
Yes Sir. Thank you Sir
(beat)
Sir, I do enjoy your new clothes
Sir.
CONNOR
Good Evening William.
WILLIAM
Yes Sir.
Connor walks in the front door of his mansion. CUT TO: INT. CONNOR JACKOBSEN MANSION -- CONTINUOUS - ESTABLISHING - Inside the front we now see that this is truly a mansion.
Everything about the surroundings tells us that someone very
wealthy lives here.
Connor is greeted by his butler whose name is ironically
enough BUTLER. Butler is your standard english butler.
However, he is quite young, he is only 27 years old.
Butler looks Connor over very well. BUTLER
Welcome home Sir.
(beat)
I heard about your misfortune, are
you all right?
CONNOR
Yes Butler I am fine,
It is obvious at this point that Connor does not want to
discuss his situation.
Butler helps him off with his jacket BUTLER
Should I put this in the coat closet
with the rest of your fine jackets
Sir?
Connor doesn't hesitate to answer CONNOR
BURN IT!
BUTLER
Yes Sir.
Connor walks toward a pair of doors about 10'-15' away. CONNOR
Have the police called yet?
BUTLER
Yes Sir, they found your things just
after you left. I have arranged to
have them here tomorrow morning Sir.
Opening the doors. INT. CONNOR JACKOBSEN MANSION, OFFICE -- CONTINUOUS - ESTABLISHING - An elegant home office with all of the amenities. Walls
lined with books, elegant paintings and a giant solid
cherrywood desk.
Connor walks inside and sits down at his desk, pressing one
button his desktop computer hooks to the internet.
CONNOR
Wonderful,
(beat)
did they find the laptop?
BUTLER
Yes Sir, I believe they did.
CONNOR
(sigh)
Good,
(beat)
that will be all Thank you Butler.
BUTLER
Sir?
CONNOR
Yes?
BUTLER
I can't help but ask,
(beat)
Did the people who stole your things
(beat)
did they make you wear that ridiculous
outfit Sir?
Connor doesn't seem the slightest bit amused. CONNOR
That will be all Butler.
BUTLER
(smiling)
Yes Sir.
Butler closes both doors as he exits the room. COMPUTER (O.S.)
You've Got Mail.
Connor's attention is immediately focused on the Computer. ANGLE ON the Computer screen which shows a full screen of E-mails.
We wait with anticipation as the mouse cursor moves down the
list to "SEATTLEGIRL07734 - Surprise, I'm coming to Salt
Lake City". then click, and the mail opens.
THE E-MAIL READS Subj: Surprise, I'm coming to Salt Lake City From: Seattlegirl07734 Hey You, I know that this is short notice, but I have decided to come
to Salt Lake for Easter. I know you won't get this until
Friday, when you come home from your trip, But I won't arrive
until around 5 o'clock on Easter Eve. I am leaving now to
the Train Station. It is a long trip via Train, so I'll
have a long time to think of what to say when I get there.
I hope that you are still okay with me coming. Love, Seattle. CONNOR (O.S.)
I know that this is short notice,
but I've decided to come to Salt
Lake for Easter. I know you won't
get this until Friday, when you come
home from your Trip, But I will not
be arriving until around 5:00 on
Easter Eve.
Connor immediately looks at his watch. ANGLE ON the watch to see that it is almost 6:00 p.m. CONNOR
(yelling)
Butler!
Connor picks up the phone and dials (411) information, as
Butler enters the office.
BUTLER
Yes Sir?
CONNOR
I need William to pick someone up at
the Train Station immediately.
BUTLER
But Sir, you gave Mr. William the
night off.
Connor had forgotten in the heat of the moment and cringes
at the terrible chain of events that just don't seem to end.
And although he is a little perturbed he is in no way mad,
nor does he show any type of anger, just a little frustration.
CONNOR
(into the phone)
Yes, could you please connect me to
the Salt Lake City Train Station?
Connor, covers the receiver and addresses Butler again. CONNOR
That will be all,
(beat)
But would you please let me know
when Sarah arrives?
BUTLER
Yes Sir, she has already arrived,
she is in your bedroom Sir.
Connor simply gestures to Butler then begins to speak on the
phone. Butler leaves the room.
CONNOR
Yes, could you please tell me if the
Train from Seattle Washington has
arrived yet?
(beat, relieved)
Great, when should it be arriving?
(beat)
What, in the morning, are you sure?
(beat with a sigh of
relief)
Thank You.
Connor hangs up the phone and walks out of his office. CUT TO: INT. CONNOR JACKOBSEN MANSION - MASTER BEDROOM -- MOMENTS
LATER
- ESTABLISHING - SARAH, a 39-year-old woman dressed in a beautiful black formal
dress, sits on an elegant bed in a perfectly kept bedroom.
Except for a tuxedo laid out on the bed, we would not expect
that someone lived here.
Sarah is flipping through station after station on the
television as Connor walks in. She doesn't even look at
him.
Connor doesn't hesitate to head straight for the bathroom.
He must be avoiding something,
CONNOR
Hey Sis, I am going to take a quick
shower before we go.
Sarah just continues to flip through the stations. SARAH
Do you know how many stations you
have on this television?
CONNOR (O.S.)
Three Hundred and.......Seventy-Eight.
Sarah looks towards the bathroom as the shower also turns on
and we hear the shower door shut.
SARAH
Why do you need 378 television
stations?
CONNOR
I don't, I don't even watch Television
you know that.
SARAH
Exactly, so why do you need 378
stations?
CONNOR
To keep you busy while I take a
shower,
(beat)
I had Butler call and order them
just before you got here.
Sarah looks a little confused. But she's smarter than that. SARAH
(to herself)
Funny, very funny.
Sarah just returns to flipping through stations and begins
to ramble about nothing.
SARAH
Do you know that I have found over
30 stations that aren't even in
English? And at least 20 that have
some person holding a bible preaching.
One even said I could buy my soul in
twelve easy payments.
(beat)
If only it were that easy.
Sarah continues to flip through the stations as a moment
goes by.
CONNOR (O.S.)
Hey Sarah? Could you run me to the
Train Station tonight after the
banquet?
This is the first time Sarah's main focus isn't the
television. Again she looks a little confused.
SARAH
(upset)
You're going to be gone on Easter?
CONNOR (O.S.)
I'm picking someone up.
SARAH
Oh, Anyone I know?
The room stays quiet for a moment, then: CONNOR (O.S.)
Remember that girl I told you about,
from Seattle?
It is obvious that Sarah approves SARAH
(approving smile)
Yeah, of course.
CONNOR
Well, she e-mailed me while I was in
New York. And because of the problems
I had while I was there, I didn't
get it until about 20 minutes ago,
(beat)
Her train arrives at 5:30 in the
morning.
SARAH
Why don't you have William pick her
up?
CONNOR
I gave him the night off before I
knew she was coming.
SARAH
Then why don't you just take the
Mercedes?
CONNOR (O.S.)
Because, you're using it.
SARAH
Not at 5:30 in the morning I'm not.
The shower turns off and the shower door opens and closes
again.
CONNOR (O.S.)
Are you going to be using it tomorrow?
SARAH
Only in the morning. Bob and the
kids and I are going out to see his
Parents.
Connor pokes his head out the door. CONNOR
Then just drop me off at the Train
Station on your way home tonight,
I'll have Butler send William down
in the morning.
SARAH
Your going to sit around at a Train
Station all night?
CONNOR
Why not? It will give me some time
to myself.
(beat)
Could you hand me my tuxedo?
Sarah gets up and grabs the tux, handing it to Connor. Again
he disappears back into the bathroom. Sarah leans against
the door casing.
SARAH
Well I think your nuts, why don't
you just come spend the night at our
house and then you can take the car
to pick her up?
CONNOR (O.S.)
That would be fine, but I really
just want to have some time to myself,
is that okay?
SARAH
(rolling her eyes, to
herself)
Okay, whatever you say little brother.
Sarah sits back down and again begins to flip through the
channels.
SARAH
So are you at least going to tell me
what that getup was you were wearing
when you came in here?
Just then Connor appears from the bathroom, dressed to kill.
Everything is perfect. Sarah is proud of her younger brother.
Getting up she helps him straighten his tie.
SARAH
Mom and Dad would have been so proud
of you.
CONNOR
(smiling)
They're proud of us both.
A tear comes to Sarah's eye. She looks deep into Connor's
eyes.
SARAH
Thank you. Thank you for tonight,
thank you for everything.
CONNOR
Thank me when we find a cure, until
then, it's only money.
(beat, sincerely)
But we will find a cure.
Sarah smiles and hugs Connor. SARAH
I love you so much.
CONNOR
I love you too Sis.
(beat)
and as much as I am enjoying this
moment, we'd better go or we're going
to be late.
(beat)
C'mon
Both smile as they leave the room. SARAH
So what were you wearing when you
came in here?
Connor shakes his head as they disappear around the corner. CONNOR (O.S.)
I'll tell you in the car.
CUT TO: END OF ACT ONE ACT TWO INT. TRAIN STATION -- LATER Courtney is sitting on a bench inside the train station. It
is pretty obvious that she is sleeping. This is one of those
moments that we all try to avoid; Her head has fallen back,
while her mouth is wide open; to top it all off, she is
snoring. There is a book on her lap, open to page 78.
ARNIE - STATION ATTENDANT
Ma'am.....
(tapping her on the
shoulder)
Ma'am?
Courtney wakes from her slumber, opens her eyes so that she
is looking directly at the ceiling.
The moment of realization comes. The question is "Has she
been drooling?" Immediately she lifts he head upright and
wipes her mouth. She is relieved to find she is in the clear.
ARNIE - STATION ATTENDANT
Ma'am?
She is a little startled by ARNIE, the station attendant (a
grouchy elderly man). She looks up to see him standing over
her.
ARNIE - STATION ATTENDANT
Mam, I'm going to have to ask you to
leave, we don't allow sleeping on
the benches.
Courtney is a little distraught. COURTNEY
I'm sorry I must have fallen asleep.
.. I was just reading.
ARNIE - STATION ATTENDANT
Yes Mam, but we don't allow sleeping
here.
COURTNEY
I'm just waiting for a ride.
ARNIE - STATION ATTENDANT
Then I suggest you wait in the Coffee
shop, or we have pay phones right
over there, you can call a cab.
Still suffering from a cloudy head, she thinks for a moment
then responds.
COURTNEY
Are their any Hotels close by?
ARNIE - STATION ATTENDANT
Yes Ma'am, you can call a cab and
they will take you to any number of
hotels in the area.
Giving him a "what's wrong with you look", she grabs her bag
and gets up. Pausing before she walks away,
COURTNEY
Have you worked here long?
ARNIE - STATION ATTENDANT
Yes Ma'am, I've been in this Train
Station over 35 years.
COURTNEY
Well Quasimodo, you ought to try and
get out once in a while.
Courtney turns and heads towards the Cafe, while Quasimodo
tries to figure out what she has just said, he just stares
for a moment then returns to the ticket counter.
CUT TO: INT. TRAIN STATION CAFE -- CONTINUOUS - ESTABLISHING - A nice brightly-lit coffee shop, in a 50's Coca-Cola decor.
The shop is empty except for FRANK MONTGOMERY, the owner,
although his nametag simply says "FRANK".
Frank is a Black man in his early 60's, dressed in a 50's
coffee shop uniform. Frank wipes down the counter and tidies
up the place.
As Courtney enters Frank greets her. FRANK
Welcome to the Train Station Cafe.
Courtney is pleasantly surprised by the contrast of
personalities from the station attendant. She smiles, but
is still trying to completely wake up.
Sitting down at the bar, she places her bag on the stool
next to her.
COURTNEY
(smiling)
Thank You.
FRANK
Would you like a cup of Joe to help
wake ya up some?
Courtney is so comfortable in her surroundings and thoroughly
enjoys Frank's personality. But she didn't get her figure
by drinking coffee.
COURTNEY
Um,
(beat)
How about a glass of Ice Water?
Frank grabs a cup from under the counter and pours a glass
of water from a nearby pitcher.
FRANK
Are you new in town?
COURTNEY
Yeah, I was suppose to be picked up
(looking at her watch,
she becomes
embarrassed)
5 hours ago.
FRANK
You're from Boston?
COURTNEY
(how does he know so
much about her)
Yeah, I'm going to school there.
FRANK
The Boston Train comes in every
Saturday night at 5:15
(beat)
So is he just late, or do you think
he forgot?
Courtney looks curiously at Frank. Perhaps Frank just knows
people, or maybe she shows the disappointment of being stood
up at a train station.
COURTNEY
(cautious question)
I didn't say it was a he.
FRANK
(smiles)
You didn't have to.
She thinks for a moment, because she doesn't really know the
answer.
COURTNEY
Oh,...I don't know.
FRANK
You did try calling him didn't you?
There are pay phones just inside the
Station.
COURTNEY
No I haven't tried.
FRANK
Well here,
(Frank grabs the phone
under the counter)
This won't cost you two bits.
Frank is truly a sweet spirit. He's just happy to help out
anyway he can. He's also a straight shooter.
COURTNEY
Oh? Thank you, but I don't have his
number.
FRANK
(reaching under the
counter again)
Well, here's a phone book.
Frank slides the phone book in front of Courtney. She looks at the phone book for a moment then gets very
embarrassed and puts her head down. Frank is a little
confused and worried.
FRANK
Are you all right?
COURTNEY
I don't know his name.
FRANK
You don't know his name?
COURTNEY
No,
(beat)
I met him on-line,
(beat)
I only know his Screen Name,
Shakespeare?
FRANK
On-Line? You mean you met him on
the train line?
Again she gets embarrassed COURTNEY
No, on the Computer.
Suddenly Frank understands.... FRANK
Oh... So Shakespeare is the name he
goes by on the Computer?
(beat)
Well, I just don't understand you
kids these days.
COURTNEY
I know, it's crazy.
FRANK
But you're crazy about the guy?
COURTNEY
I don't know. I just wanted to spend
the Spring Break with someone special.
I thought we might of had something.
FRANK
How long have you known
this.....Shakespeare?
COURTNEY
Nine months.
FRANK
You can get to know a lot about
someone in Nine months.
(beat)
Like his name, maybe his phone number,
or if he would pick you up at the
train station when you come to town.
Courtney looks at Frank who is smiling and she to begins to
smile.
COURTNEY
Frank, Do you have any food around
here?
FRANK
Anything on the menu you want.
COURTNEY
Do you have BLT's?
FRANK
Coming right up.
COURTNEY
Extra mayonnaise?
FRANK
(smiling)
I think I can arrange that.
Frank walks behind a wall to the kitchen area and begins to
cook, while Courtney lays her head on the counter top looking
out into the Train Station.
It's only a moment before someone comes through the doors
into the Train Station, catching Courtney's attention. The
bell from SANTA can be heard still ringing.
P.O.V Courtney watches: Connor who has just entered the Train Station, wearing his
tuxedo. Connor is looking strangely back out the door. He
only walks in a few steps before stopping and looking around.
ANGLE ON Courtney who sits in anticipation, a small smile begins to
appear as she watches Connor.
P.O.V. Courtney watches: Sarah who has just also entered into the Train Station,
carrying a nylon Computer bag, she too looks behind her as
she enters. She walks over to Connor, speaking with him
shortly and handing him the bag. She then leans forward and
hugs him and then kisses him gently. Sarah then leaves
ANGEL ON Courtney who sinks down onto the stool. FRANK
Not our guy?
Courtney just shakes her head in disappointment. While Frank
grins in his wisdom. Frank has lived many years and knows
that things always work out in the end.
CUT TO: INT. TRAIN STATION -- CONTINUOUS Connor turns back around to again decide where he is going
to go for the next 6 or 7 hrs.
Connor walks over to the ticket counter, and places his bag
on the floor in front of the counter. After looking around
and seeing no one is there, he stands for a moment before he
looks over the counter and into the back area. Still not
seeing anyone, he looks around on top of the counter, maybe
a schedule is lying around, but instead he notices a bell on
the counter.
At first he only rings it once. But a moment goes by and no
one comes, so he rings it again, and again. Then he finds
his rhythm.
Ringing the bell to a beat, he begins to tap his foot, then
his head starts to bob up and down, then his eyes slowly
close as he is totally immersed in the moment.
As good as it could sound, Connor has NO NATURAL RHYTHM, so
it sounds more like monkey than a man.
Suddenly it all stops as Arnie slams his hand over Connor's
causing one last loud muffled ring.
CONNOR
(startled)
Oh, there is someone here, sorry I
get a little carried away sometimes.
Arnie doesn't seem at all amused and just stares at Connor
with a blank face.
ARNIE - STATION ATTENDANT
See this sign?
(pointing to a sign)
It say's ring once for help.
CONNOR
Ha, yes I do see that now.
ARNIE - STATION ATTENDANT
It doesn't say ring twice, or even
ring until someone comes.
(beat)
Do you know why that is?
CONNOR
Because you want it only rang once,
(seeing that this man
has no sense of humor)
and I'm truly sorry.
ARNIE - STATION ATTENDANT
Well, what can I do for you?
CONNOR
I'm supposed to pick someone up here
at 5:30 from Seattle.
ARNIE - STATION ATTENDANT
(straight-faced)
We don't have any trains come here
from Seattle.
CONNOR
No, I called and they told me it
would be here at 5:30 from Seattle.
Arnie points to a wall map of the West Coast, which shows
red lines connecting certain cities via Railways.
ARNIE - STATION ATTENDANT
See this map?
(beat)
Here is Seattle, Here is Salt Lake
City. There are no railroad tracks
between.
CONNOR
So if someone wanted to go to Salt
Lake from Seattle, is it possible?
ARNIE - STATION ATTENDANT
Of course, but you must go through
San Francisco. See there are train
tracks from Seattle to San Francisco,
and from San Francisco to Salt Lake
City. So yes it is possible.
Connor isn't sure if Arnie is trying to be difficult of he
is totally serious.
CONNOR
Okay, so when does the train arrive
from San Francisco?
ARNIE - STATION ATTENDANT
5:30 AM at gate #2.
CONNOR
Okay, Great
(beat)
You know, you probably ought to get
out more often.
Arnie just looks at Connor for a moment ARNIE - STATION ATTENDANT
I get that a lot.
Connor doesn't know how to respond, so he just changes the
subject.
CONNOR
Is there some place I can get a cup
of coffee?
Arnie just points to the cafe. CONNOR
Thanks...
Connor picks up his bag and walks towards the cafe. CUT TO: END OF ACT TWO ACT THREE INT. TRAIN STATION CAFE -- CONTINUOUS Courtney has been watching Connor, but quickly turns away
when Connor heads her direction where Frank stands with her
BLT.
FRANK
Here you are, a BLT with extra
mayonnaise.
A little startled she smiles at Frank as if he didn't know
what was going on.
COURTNEY
Thank you it looks delicious.
Frank nods his head as Connor walks in. Courtney pretends
not to notice him by eating her sandwich.
FRANK
Welcome to the Train Station Cafe,
can I get you something?
Connor walks over to the bar, a stool or two away from
Courtney.
CONNOR
A glass of Orange Juice would be
wonderful.
FRANK
Coming right up.
Connor places the bag on the ground and takes a seat at the
bar.
FRANK
So where ya headed?
Frank places a cup in front of Connor and fills it with Orange
Juice.
CONNOR
Oh...No... I'm not, I'm picking
someone up.
FRANK
On Easter Weekend? Must be family?
CONNOR
(after taking a swig)
Actually it's a friend, but she
doesn't arrive for a few hours still.
FRANK
Where's she coming from?
CONNOR
(thinking for a moment)
A....San Francisco,
FRANK
Oh the 5:30 Arrival?
CONNOR
(surprised)
Yeah,
(beat, thinking)
Say, what's up with the man at the
ticket counter?
FRANK
Awe, Arnie, he's harmless. He's an
ornery old man, but he's harmless.
CONNOR
He needs a vacation.
Courtney laughs and this is the first time Connor looks
directly at her, although Courtney continues to mind her own
business, even if it's only superficially.
FRANK
Arnie's been working here since just
before Rosie and I opened up this
cafe.
(beat)
He hasn't missed a day of work since
we've been here.
(beat)
come to think of it, he hasn't changed
a bit since we've been here either.
(beat)
It's kind of funny, people have always
asked what is up with Arnie.
(beat)
him and BERNARD.
COURTNEY
Who's Bernard?
FRANK
(pointing outside)
The Santa Clause out there ringing
the bell.
Both Connor and Courtney turn and look out the window. SANTA
is walking past the front of the Cafe, carrying his bucket
and bell.
CONNOR
Shouldn't he be wearing a rabbit
suit?
FRANK
Bernard use to be the janitor here,
(beat)
but when his knee began to start
hurting him, they hired a new janitor
and asked him to retire. But they
also needed a Santa that year.
(beat)
that was two years ago.
COURTNEY
Is he here every night?
FRANK
No, no, no. He just shows up here
every couple of months, stays for 5
or 6 hours then goes home.
CONNOR
Does he ever get money?
FRANK
Yeah, but he never empties the bucket
until the salvation army comes to
pick it up.
(beat)
Rosie use to take a couple of dollars
out to him, just to make sure he
knew someone didn't think he was
crazy,
(beat)
But he's a few eggs shy of a dozen.
A moment goes by as Frank reminisces. COURTNEY
Frank? Is your wife at home?
This is the first time Connor and Courtney acknowledge each
other, while Frank continues to reminisce for a moment longer.
FRANK
No, she passed away a few months
ago,
(solemnly)
on Christmas Eve as a matter of fact.
COURTNEY
Frank, I'm so sorry, I didn't know.
FRANK
It's all right dear, I had 45
wonderful years with her,
(beat)
but I do miss her.
A moment passes as Courtney beats herself up and Frank thinks
about his wife.
CONNOR
So Frank, why are you still here,
(beat)
this late on Easter Eve?
FRANK
Because of Rosie, she would have
wanted me to be here.
CONNOR
But on Easter Eve?
FRANK
Especially on Easter Eve.
(beat)
You see, me and Rosie never could
have children, Oh we tried to, but
God had other plans for us.
(beat)
Rosie was always helping someone,
giving to charities or feeding a man
down on his luck, it was always
something,
(beat)
But Easter and Christmas Eve was
special, we didn't have no family to
spent it with, so we stayed here all
night. Anyone who came in, we would
give them whatever they wanted, on
the house.
(beat)
the first few years, we would get
people such as yourselves, traveling
through or just waiting for a ride.
But after a couple of years, people
from the shelter would come down for
a good meal.
(beat)
Then before we knew it, we were
serving 300 people every Easter and
Christmas Eve.
(pauses and smiles)
Rosie loved it, she would talk to
the families, and she even had Santa
or the Easter Bunny come by the last
couple of years with toys and candy
for all of the children, and Blankets
and Coats for everyone. I have never
seen her so happy.
CONNOR
What happened? Where is everyone
tonight?
FRANK
(stern)
W. Bartlett Nelson is what happened.
(beat)
Him buying this Train Station is
what happened.
Connor seems very intrigued by this statement. CONNOR
How is that?
FRANK
18 months ago Mr. Nelson bought the
train station from the city. They
were going to close it down and make
it a historic building.
(beat)
just after he bought the place, he
renovated it without the city's
approval,
(pointing)
putting a giant glass window in the
front where he placed his restored
1938 steel blue Rolls Royce Phantom
Two.
(beat)
Well, just after he had put the car
there, he caught someone sleeping in
it. After that Mr. Nelson would not
let anyone in the building that was
not here to utilize the Transportation
System.
(beat)
Well, Rosie went to speak with him
about that Christmas Eve. She told
him we would take responsibility for
anything that might happen. But he
told her that if we tried to give
food or anything else away he would
be sure not to renew our lease the
following year.
CONNOR
(disbelieving sarcasm)
That sounds like Bartt.
COURTNEY
You know this Bartt guy?
It is obvious that she is totally disgusted by this man. CONNOR
I'm afraid so.
COURTNEY
He sounds like a monster.
CONNOR
Bartt is a very rich monster.
COURTNEY
So what happened last year, did you
do it anyway?
FRANK
Rosie would have loved to do it
despite Mr. Nelson,
(beat)
but we talked about it, and decided
to prepare dinner and take it to the
shelter instead.
(beat)
I spent all day cooking, while Rosie
was out buying coats and blankets
and toys.
(beat, trying to
remember all of the
detail)
We had planned on closing early, at
6:00, but Rosie hadn't come back
from the store, so I just kept working
in the kitchen.
(beat)
it was about 7:00 when I heard the
accident. I ran out to see what had
happened.
Frank becomes very emotional. He has trouble talking. FRANK
I saw our '72 Cadillac in the middle
of the Station. Glass everywhere.
(beat)
I ran to see if Rosie was okay, but
when I got to her, she had already
passed away.
(beat)
We didn't even get to say goodbye.
Courtney walks around the counter to console Frank. As she
approaches him, he just begins sobbing.
FRANK
I'm sorry Frank, I'm so sorry.
Frank is indeed crying, but it is from laughter, when he
lifts his head, he is laughing hysterically.
Courtney looks at Connor, but both are flabbergasted. CONNOR
Frank are you okay.
(beat)
Help him sit down.
COURTNEY
Frank?
Courtney helps Frank sit on a stool behind the counter.
Frank takes a moment to compose himself before he continues.
FRANK
When the coroner arrived I was told
that she had had a Heart Attack.
That she must have known something
was wrong, and was trying to get
here to get help.
(beat, smiling)
But I know that that wasn't the case.
Rosie was a stubborn woman. She
would have made it if she wanted,
but I think that when she turned the
corner to the Station, she saw
Bartlett's 1938 Steel Blue Rolls
Royce through the giant window and
made up her mind.
Connor and Courtney are both dumbfounded at the premise. CONNOR
Did she hit the Rolls?
FRANK
Oh yes,
(laughing)
The only thing Bartlett was able to
save was the hood ornament,
(sarcastically)
I hear he keeps it in a glass case
on his desk at home.
COURTNEY
Did anyone get hurt?
FRANK
As you can see, not many people are
around here on holiday weekends, but
Bartlett Jr. had just finished
reminding me that we were not to
allow "Any Bums" on the property,
(beat)
Now I know Rosie would've of never
hit him on purpose.
Frank shakes his head as he thinks about it. FRANK
He even told the police he was just
trying to stop the car from hitting
the building
Both Courtney and Connor laugh. FRANK
Two broken legs and a shattered hip
is what he got, the kid's just lucky
he's still walking.
CONNOR
Is that what happened? I was told
it was a skiing accident.
(beat)
But for Bartt Jr., that makes a lot
more sense.
Connor thinks for a moment. CONNOR
Now I saw the sign out front. Are
you closing the cafe in a few weeks?
FRANK
Well, after what happened Mr. Nelson
filed a law suit against me claiming
I was responsible for knowing about
Rosie's heart troubles.
(beat)
But it's just as well I'm getting
too old for this.
Who is Frank trying to kid? He loves it and it's very
obvious.
COURTNEY
So what will you do?
FRANK
I'll probably end up down at the
shelter. I only have my Social
Security now, that's not much money
these days.
CONNOR
You don't have anyplace else to go?
Frank is not very comfortable standing around and talking,
so he keeps himself busy with anything and everything (i.e,
washing off the counter, cleaning spots off water glasses,
etc.)
FRANK
In the last four months I have lost
everything me and Rosie worked so
hard for.
(beat)
When Mr. Nelson sued me for damages,
I lost our house, our savings, our
car, and I have to turn the cafe
over to him on May 1st.
(beat)
I would have been okay if they would
just let me keep our house, it wasn't
a lot, but I could have gotten by.
CONNOR
Don't you have insurance?
Frank grabs the water pitcher and refills Courtney's cup,
then pulls out a cup for Connor and fills it with water..
FRANK
Rosie handled all of that, I never
was much for keeping records,
(beat)
I found out during the trial that
she had canceled the insurance for
the Cadillac.
(beat)
I remember discussing it, she only
did it because we were going to get
a new car right after Christmas,
(beat)
But then the accident happened.
Connor ponders the facts at hand. As he looks around: FRANK
(to Courtney)
Of all the thing's I've lost, Rosie
is the only thing that really matters
to me,
(smiling)
all the rest I can do without.
Connor has a thought, an idea even: CONNOR
How many people come here every day?
(beat)
Does it stay pretty busy?
FRANK
We're the only cafe in walking
distance. I had to hire a few boys
to help out since Rosie's been gone.
CONNOR
If you made enough here, there isn't
a court in the state that wouldn't
let you keep your home and the cafe
as long as you satisfied the judgment
within a reasonable amount of time.
FRANK
All I know is that it is all gone
now.
Again Connor thinks for a moment. Courtney pays close
attention to Connor.
CONNOR
Do you keep your records and
accounting books here?
FRANK
Rosie used the Computer to do all
that,
(pointing)
it's in the back.
CONNOR
Can I take a look?
FRANK
Knock yourself out.
Connor gets up and walks behind the counter, Courtney grabs
her sandwich and follows.
Frank curiously watches as Connor disappears around the
corner, then him and Courtney make eye contact, Courtney
raises her eyebrows as if to say,"Not bad, I kinda like him".
Frank smiles in response.
CUT TO: INT. TRAIN STATION CAFE - BACK ROOM -- CONTINUOUS - ESTABLISHING - Connor sits at the Computer looking through a Quicken books
program. He is pulling up reports and looking at graphs.
Courtney just watches and eats her BLT.
COURTNEY
(mouth full)
What are you looking for?
Connor turns around giving her a less than approving look.
Courtney rolls her eyes and smiles as she realizes she is
talking with her mouth full.
CONNOR
I'm not sure, but I'd bet it wasn't
his son's accident that Bartt's
worried about.
COURTNEY
(swallowing first!)
You mean money?
CONNOR
That is correct, It always comes
down to money with this guy..
COURTNEY
(with a mouth full of
food)
Can I help?
Connor just looks at her strangely. It's cute habit, one
that not many people could get away with... But somehow she
does.
CONNOR
(beat, yelling)
Frank! Do you have copies of your
IRS filings?
Frank sticks his head around the corner, pointing to a filing
cabinet.
FRANK
(pointing)
Rosie kept all the records in the
cabinet.
CONNOR
(to Courtney)
Look in those files and see if you
can find any Tax returns.
Courtney opens the cabinet and begins looking through the
files. After a moment she finds a file labeled IRS PAPERS.
She pulls out the file and begins looking through it.
COURTNEY
(before taking the
file out)
Here is a file labeled IRS Papers.
(beat, after sitting
down and opening the
file)
Montgomery?
CONNOR
What?
ANGLE ON Courtney is looking at the 1040 which has the names of the
filers on it:
COURTNEY
Frank and Rosie Montgomery.
(beat, caught in the
moment)
I hope someday, someone loves me as
much as Frank loves Rosie..... The
way Frank still speaks about Rosie,
(beat)
One in a Million chance of finding
that.
This isn't Connor's strong suit. After all he is just a
man.
CONNOR
(all knowing)
You just have to pay attention.
Courtney doesn't quite buy Connor's thinking. COURTNEY
Yeah, maybe...
Courtney continues to look through the papers as TIME-LAPSE through a montages of shots, an hour or so goes by. He
continues to look through Computer files while she shuffles
through paper then:
Courtney's face becomes very bright and excited. COURTNEY
I think I've got something,
As Courtney realizes when she looks at Connor, she doesn't
even know his name.
COURTNEY
um.. I'm sorry,
Courtney extends her hand to Connor as if to shake COURTNEY
Hi, I'm Courtney Williams from Boston
Massachusetts, We haven't been
formally introduced.
CONNOR
(smiling)
Connor Jackobsen, from good ol' Salt
Lake City, it's very nice to meet
you Courtney Williams from Boston
Massachusetts.
The chemistry flows between these two. The attraction is
almost unbearable. But Courtney composes herself very well
and addresses the task at hand.
COURTNEY
Um, okay....So I've found the past
seven years Income tax returns.
(flipping through
pages)
All show donations of over $150,000.00
and last year reached over $200,000.00
Connor slides over next to Courtney. CONNOR
Donations to who?
COURTNEY
Well, I found detailed schedules of
all donations, they all go to
charitable organizations
(beat)
everything from the Red Cross to the
Children's Center.
CONNOR
So what did they claim as income?
COURTNEY
(looking over 1040)
Um......Every year they showed a
$25,000 taxable income.
(beat, disbelieving)
Rosie gave all of their money away.
So, this is what happens when you
spend your life giving everything
away.
CONNOR
No, this is what happens when you
have the great misfortune of meeting
Bartlett Nelson.
(beat)
But that's all about to change, let's
go tell Frank the good news.
Connor stands up and leaves the room. Courtney is unsure as
to what to think, good news? Is he kidding?
CUT TO: INT. TRAIN STATION CAFE -- CONTINUOUS Frank is pouring a cup of coffee for a homeless man that is
eating a sandwich at a corner table almost completely out of
site from the Train Station. When Connor and Courtney come
from the office.
CONNOR
(looking around)
Frank?
(beat)
Frank?
FRANK
I'm over here, I'm just getting an
old friend something warm on a cool
night.
CONNOR
Courtney found your last seven year's
income tax returns,
(beat)
You're making enough during the year
to satisfy any judgment.
FRANK
That's great, I see you two finally
introduced yourselves.
Connor is a little confused, he should be happy. Or at least
acknowledge his statement.
CONNOR
You don't understand, We've found a
way to keep your cafe open, and I
believe you could even keep your
house.
FRANK
(perfectly poised)
I understand very well, "THANK YOU",
but I have already been ordered to
turn the keys over to Mr. Nelson on
the 1st of May.
Connor looks at Courtney then back at Frank. Connor
understands his frustration but,
CONNOR
Frank, do you want to keep the
restaurant?
FRANK
Of course I do, but I've had to let
it go.
CONNOR
(hesitating)
If you could stay here, would you?
FRANK
I may be old, but this is the best
place me and Rosie ever had together.
(beat)
I would do anything to keep it alive.
CONNOR
(excited)
That's the answer I was looking for,
Connor reaches inside his jacket and pulls out a cell phone. COURTNEY
(getting close to
Connor, quietly)
What are you going to do?
Flipping the phone open. CONNOR
Make a phone call.
Connor scrolls through his phone directory, finding the
listing he needs, he pushes SEND.
CONNOR
(smiling)
A call I'm going to really enjoy.
Courtney just stands by while Connor makes the call CONNOR
Hello Betty, I'm sorry to call so
late, but could you please get me
Bartlett Nelson's phone number?
(beat)
5429, Betty are you at work?
(beat, questioning)
You just know his number?
(shaking his head)
I knew there was a reason I hired
you.
(beat)
Thank you Betty, Happy Easter to you
too.
Connor hangs up and dials the number, 555-5429, SEND. COURTNEY
You're going to call the guy?
Connor acknowledges Courtney with a nod. CONNOR
Bartt, it's Connor, I've got a quick
question for you
(beat)
Yeah I know it's late,
(beat)
yeah I know tomorrow is Easter,
(beat)
okay I'll make it quick, I'm having
a drink with a gentleman that has
just told me an incredible story,
(beat)
Well because it has to do with you,
so listen up,
(beat)
No it can't wait until Wednesday,
now don't interrupt me, just listen.
Both Courtney and Frank look at each other, wondering if
this is really happening. But Frank continues to listen
while he stays busy around the cafe.
While Courtney is surprised by his take charge attitude,
maybe even a little more attracted to him.
CONNOR
Is it true that last Christmas Eve
someone drove a '72 Cadillac through
the front of the Train Station,
totaling your '38 Rolls?
(beat)
Really?
(beat)
Is it also true that Bartt Jr. jumped
in front of the Cadillac?
(beat)
I know your kid's slow, but that's a
no brainier, why would someone jump
in front of a ton of steel?
(beat, perturbed)
Really?
(beat, pacing, beat)
Bartt, how much do you stand to make
from our deal Wednesday?
(beat)
$98 Million, So let me ask you another
question, Do you think destroying a
man's life is worth 98 million
dollars?
(beat, long pause)
No?
(beat)
Okay, then listen up, no better yet
why don't you get a pad and pencil
ready, because in
(looking at his watch)
just about..... 9 hours, Blake is
going to bring down our contract to
the Train Station Cafe for me to
sign. If the following has been
handled by that time, I will sign
the contract, If it hasn't, I will
burn that contract and sign the deal
with Phelps instead, do you
understand?
(beat)
Do you have something to write with
now?
Connor looks at Courtney who is in awe, as he walks over to
a table and picks up a menu.
CONNOR
Good, then let me begin....First,
bring the deed for the property at
(looking at the back
of the menu)
300 Train Station Place to the Cafe,
where you will sign that deed over
to Mr. Frank Montgomery. Therefore
giving him back his cafe.
(beat, Sternly)
NEXT, Mr. Montgomery has a home that
was taken from him. Bring a contract
for sale of that property back to
Mr. Montgomery for the purchase price
of One Dollar. At which time Mr.
Montgomery will pay you exactly One
Dollar for his home.
(beat)
Third, there were funds in a savings
account that belonged to Mr. and
Mrs. Montgomery. Have those funds
transferred back into that account
times ten. In other words Bartt, I
expect ten times the amount taken to
be put back.
Courtney's eyes become very large as she listens to the
conversation. Frank isn't so convinced, he just continues
doing what he was doing.
CONNOR
Find a way, you know the president
of the Bank. Now lastly, Mr.
Montgomery had a '72 Cadillac that
was totaled by your 1938 Steel Blue
Rolls Royce Phantom II, I presume
you would like to replace it for
him?
(beat)
I'm sorry Bartlett, I can't hear
you.
(beat)
Good, any questions?
(beat)
No, a brand new one, why would he
want a '72 cadillac.
FRANK
(to Courtney, just
playing along)
Rosie always wanted a black cadillac
with tan leather upholstery.
CONNOR
And Rosie always wanted a Black
Cadillac with tan leather interior.
I don't suppose that would be a
problem?
(beat)
Great, now give Marjorie my love and
tell her Happy Easter for me.
Connor closes the flip phone and places it in his pocket.
As he turns around, Courtney looks at him in disbelief and
awe. While Franks still just does what he does.
CONNOR
(to Courtney)
What?
Frank just begins to chuckle FRANK
Thank you,
(beat)
I needed that,
(beat)
you know, you're a funny man.
Courtney is confused and realizes it must be just a joke.
She often gets caught in the "What if" of a situation. She
then looks at Connor, then back at Franks, then back at
Connor.
COURTNEY
(hurt)
Was this all just a joke, is that
what you think of other people's
tragedies?
Connor innocently shakes his head CONNOR
No.
COURTNEY
How dare you.
FRANK
It's okay dear, I'm not upset. There
is no reason for you to be.
COURTNEY
(to Frank)
How dare he,
(to Connor)
How dare you!
(to Frank, picking up
bag)
I can't stay here any longer,
(shaking Franks hand)
I'm sorry, Frank, I've got to go
now.
Connor immediately reacts to the situation with totally
innocent demeanor.
CONNOR
(to Courtney)
Wait!
(to Frank)
I promise Frank this isn't a joke.
Just give it a few hours.
Courtney stops and listens FRANK
I'm sorry, did I give you the
impression that I'm upset? I'm not.
If nothing happens, I will be no
worse for wear.
(beat)
but then again, I'm just an old man.
Then he looks at Courtney who just stands there with her
arms folded and a scowl on her face.
Connor is genuinely hurt, he realizes that both of them are
having a hard time believing it.
Reaching inside his jacket, Connor pulls out a small gold
business card holder. Opening it up, Connor pulls out a
card and hands it to Frank.
CONNOR
(coldly)
Here is my card, If Bartlett Nelson
does not show up here by 9:00 AM,
then call the number at the bottom,
Betty will be expecting your call.
Connor turns and walks off. Both watch as He disappears
into the train station.
Courtney has let the "what if" get the best of her again,
and begins to realize that he might actually be telling the
truth. She beats herself up as she sits down at the bar.
Hiding her head in her arms she bangs them down on the
counter.
COURTNEY
Why do I always fall for guys that
lie to me?
(beat)
Why do I attract men like that?
Frank clears his throat to get her attention. COURTNEY
Why am I sitting here all by myself.
Again Frank clears his throat, but louder and longer. Courtney looks up to Frank with a frown on her face. But
Frank is smiling at Connor who just came back in to get his
bag. She looks over to see Connor.
CONNOR
(holding up his bag)
I just forgot my bag.
Again Connor walks out of the Cafe. And again Courtney places
her head down.
COURTNEY
Why me.....Why me?
Frank chuckles as he again reminisces. FRANK
I met Rosie in a Train Station just
like this one here.
(beat)
Well actually it was on the train
from Bakersfield to Mongomery before
they shut that line down.
(beat)
But it wasn't until we arrived at
the train station that I finally got
the courage up to ask her, her name.
(beat, smiling)
She told me no proper gentleman would
approach a lady in a public place,
(smiling)
So she gave me her address and walked
away.
Courtney just listens with a beautiful sweet smile on her
face.
FRANK
Of course I was just heading off to
war, but I wrote her for four years,
(beat)
I still don't know why she waited
for me, but I'm glad she did.
(beat)
I guess it's a lot like you and your
Computer friend.
Courtney likes that thought. COURTNEY
Yeah, I guess so.
Courtney still gazes at Frank with her smile when: In walks MIKE, a 48 year old horse carriage driver. FRANK
Good Evening Michael, you have any
passengers with you tonight?
Frank pulls out a Styrofoam cup and pours a hot cup of joe
for Mike.
MIKE
Nope, it's quiet as can be out there
tonight. I'm heading back to the
stables now.
(beat)
I'm gonna call it a night.
Frank hands Mike the cup. FRANK
(to Courtney)
Michael gives rides around the city
in his horse carriage.
Mike holds his hand out to shake hers. COURTNEY
Courtney Williams, it's nice to meet
you.
MIKE
Same same.
(beat)
Well, I just dropped in for a cup,
I've got to get Pete back to the
stables.
COURTNEY
How far away are the stables?
MIKE
Not far, about 10 blocks to the south
of here.
COURTNEY
I've always wanted to ride in a
carriage
(beat)
could I ride along with you?
MIKE
Sure, but I won't be coming back
this way, and it's probably not a
good idea to be walking back here
alone.
Courtney thinks about it for a moment, then looks at Frank
who is smiling.
COURTNEY
(to Mike)
Could you wait here just a moment.
Courtney jumps down off her stool and runs into the Train
Station.
MIKE
Sure, I'll be right outside.
(beat)
Thanks Frank, Happy Easter.
FRANK
You too Michael.
ANGLE ON Frank smiles, as if he knows something, although his attention
is back on wiping the spots of the clean water glasses.
CUT TO: END OF ACT THREE ACT FOUR INT. TRAIN STATION -- MOMENTS LATER Connor lays down on a bench. Under his head is the black
Computer bag. His eyes are closed, and there is no one else
around.
ANGLE ON Courtney, who comes running up to where Connor lays. Connor opens his eyes to see Courtney standing above him, he
is a little surprised.
COURTNEY
Were you telling the truth?
CONNOR
Does it matter?
Courtney is a little taken back by his attitude. COURTNEY
(angry)
No, I guess not.
Courtney walks a few steps back towards the cafe. While
Connor just stares at the ceiling.
P.O.V Connor is staring at the gigantic ceiling above him. When
Courtney leans over the back side of the bench
COURTNEY (O.S.)
If I find out you're lying to me,
(beat)
that will be it, cut off, out of the
will. Nothing, nada, zip, zilch,
Zero,
(beat, sinister)
Not even Aunt Jenean's streudel
recipe.
Connor smiles, CONNOR
Deal.
She returns the smile. COURTNEY
I need a favor.
CONNOR
(no resistance)
What? You want my copy of the
Streudel recipe,
(Godfather!!)
I don't think so.
Courtney grabs his hand, pulls Connor up. COURTNEY
Do you like horses?
Connor is able to grabs his bag just in time. CONNOR
Don't really know any.
(being pulled along)
Where are we going?
COURTNEY
(Yelling to Frank)
Frank, we'll be back in a few minutes
Connor just looks confused but goes along. CUT TO: EXT. TRAIN STATION - FRONT OF, -- CONTINUOUS Mike sits atop a beautiful white horse carriage, drinking
his cup of Joe, when the two come out.
COURTNEY
Mike, this is Connor Jackobsen, he's
going to escort me tonight.
Holding out his hand MIKE
Pleasure to meet you Connor.
Connor just looks a little concerned, but shakes Mike's hand. MIKE
There's nothing to worry about, You
just hop up inside and I'll do the
rest.
COURTNEY
C'mon, help me up.
Courtney has one leg up, and is motioning for help from
Connor, who hesitates for a second, but a second only before
he helps her.
CONNOR
Yeah, sorry.
Then Connor climbs inside and sits across from Courtney.
After a moment Connor looks around to get comfortable with
his surroundings and notices Frank standing behind the counter
smiling at him.
P.O.V Connor watches Frank disappear as the carriage moves down
the street.
COURTNEY (O.S.)
Isn't this cool?
Connor looks around, a little confused. MIKE
I'm going to put these head phones
on and listen to a little Faith Hill.
(beat)
If you two need anything, just shout
up.
Mike smiles at them as he places the headphones over his
ears.
CONNOR
(to Courtney)
Where are we going?
COURTNEY
Mike is taking us back to the stables.
CONNOR
What are we going to do at the
stables?
COURTNEY
Nothing, he's just being nice enough
to give us a ride.
CONNOR
To the stables?
COURTNEY
(smiling)
Yeah.
CONNOR
But why do we need to go to the
stables?
She becomes almost childlike as she thinks about riding in a
horse drawn carriage
COURTNEY
We don't, but he does.
(beat)
And I always dreamed of riding in a
horse-drawn-carriage.
CONNOR
Why couldn't we just go around the
block, see a few buildings then get
dropped back at the Station?
COURTNEY
Because Mike is going to the stables
to put Pete away so he can go home
to his family.
CONNOR
Who's Pete?
COURTNEY
The horse.
Connor ponders the situation for a moment. CONNOR
So how are we going to get back?
COURTNEY
We'll walk, it's only 10 blocks
CONNOR
So why am I here again?
COURTNEY
You're here to protect me.
Connor now let's his manhood get the better of him. CONNOR
Of course,
(beat)
I will protect you.
(beat)
That's what men do, they protect,
(beat, sarcastically
Serious)
Who will protect me?
Courtney laughs... COURTNEY
I will protect you.
CONNOR
You know, you could've just taken
out the middle man and let me sleep.
COURTNEY
Yeah, I know.
As Courtney looks at the surroundings, Connor ponders a few
thoughts.
CUT TO: EXT. CITY STREET, INDUSTRIAL AREA -- CONTINUOUS - ESTABLISHING - The carriage passes through an industrial section of town.
Lined with poorly lit, cold looking industrial buildings.
COURTNEY
It's colder out here than I thought
it would be.
CONNOR
Hey Mike?
Mike turns as he lifts up one side of his head phones. CONNOR
Is there a heater in this thing?
As Mike turns back around, MIKE
There's a blanket back there.
Connor looks around but doesn't see it. CONNOR
Are you sure? We don't see......
Courtney is laughing when Connor notices her pointing to it.
He's sitting on it.
CONNOR
Ahh haa, here it is.
(beat)
I was just keeping it warm.
Connor takes the blanket and places it around Courtney. COURTNEY
Thank You.
Connor just nods his head and sits back. Silence again fills
the air.
COURTNEY
So are you a mafia guy or something?
CONNOR
(godfather voice,
again)
What would make you say a thing like
that?
(beat)
I retired from the family 16 years
ago, right after I got my drivers
license.
(beat)
I set out on my own, to make a name
for myself, I went straight
Courtney can't help but chuckle at him, although she tries
desperately not too.
CONNOR
(beat, thinking)
Well, right after I took Aunt Jenean's
streudel recipe. Then I went
straight.
(beat)
Started up the streudel shop on 5th
street and never looked back.
(beat)
oh, those were the days.
COURTNEY
(trying not to laugh)
No..really, what do you do?
Connor rolls his eyes, but decided to tell her anyhow. CONNOR
My freshman year in college, a buddy
and me started up a small Dot-com
company. About 18 months ago it
went public,
(beat)
On Wednesday I am suppose to sign a
takeover deal with W. Bartlett
Nelson, to buy out his ownership in
a small internet auction site.
COURTNEY
(taken back)
Small! 98 million is small?
CONNOR
I know it sounds like a lot of money,
but some internet companies will do
that in a month.
Courtney just shakes her head and le t's it go. COURTNEY
So, why did you help Frank?
Connor becomes very passionate about response. We soon
understand why he did it.
CONNOR
If you walked into that cafe any day
of the year, maybe a little down on
your luck, things aren't going your
way, Frank wouldn't think twice about
giving you a warm meal.
(beat)
And I'll bet, he's even given out a
little cash to help out a stranded
person or two.
(beat)
He deserves to know that people will
do the same for him.
(beat)
I just wish more people were like
Frank and Rosie.
Courtney smiles in agreement. COURTNEY
Would you have helped Frank if you
didn't know the person who was
destroying his life?
CONNOR
I would like to think so.
CUT TO: EXT. CITY STREET WITH VIEW OF GOLDEN STATUE -- CONTINUOUS - ESTABLISHING - We are still in an industrial area, but from here we have a
clear view of a 20' tall Golden Statue on the top of the
Salt Lake City Temple Building.
CONNOR
So why are you hanging around a train
station the night before Easter?
Courtney wants to be truthful, but she is embarrassed. COURTNEY
It's spring break, I came to Salt
Lake to visit a friend who was suppose
to pick me up.
(beat)
But he never showed up.
(beat)
so here I am.
(beat)
But it's better than sitting around
Harvard alone watching "With Honors"
again.
CONNOR
You're a Harvard student?
COURTNEY
(shaking her head)
Harvard Business School.
CONNOR
I had no idea I was in the presence
of Royalty.
COURTNEY
Just call me your majesty,
(beat)
What is that?
Connor looks around to see what Courtney is looking at. Not
to far off in the distance is a giant gold statue that glows
in the crisp night sky.
CONNOR
What? That?
COURTNEY
It's beautiful,
(beat)
Let's go look at it.
Courtney stands up. CONNOR
We probably shouldn't leave the
carriage
(Courtney jumps out)
While it's still moving.
Courtney lands perfectly. Then watches Connor as he stands
there looking back at her.
COURTNEY
Come on.
(beat)
Your suppose to protect me.
Nothing was going to get him to jump until she said that.
Connor steps to the edge then hesitates for a moment.
COURTNEY
(yelling)
Jump already.
He flails off of the carriage, flying through the air, landing
perfectly on his face. Courtney gasps and runs over to help
him.
COURTNEY
Are you all right?
CONNOR
(still on his face)
Oh yeah, great
(beat)
I'm just checking the area for
hostiles.
Courtney laughs COURTNEY
You don't get much cardiovascular
exercise do ya?
As she helps him up CONNOR
yeah, yeah I get exercise
(beat)
I swim and....and....play pool.
COURTNEY
Pool doesn't qualify as exercise,
(beat)
neither does hot tubbing.
He dusts himself off. CONNOR
Speed pool qualifies, it take
tremendous endurance.
COURTNEY
yeah... well your dismount could use
some work.
CONNOR
Well if I'd have known I was going
to be jumping from moving vehicles,
I would have brought the proper shoes.
Connor has just realized something is missing, he looks around
but it's not there.
COURTNEY
You didn't even use your shoes.
CONNOR
Oh, man!
Connor turns towards the carriage. COURTNEY
What's wrong.
CONNOR
I left the bag in the carriage.
COURTNEY
It will be okay, I'm sure Mike will
find it and put it somewhere safe.
Connor looks at the carriage, thinking he might be able to
catch it.
COURTNEY
(grabbing Connor)
Come on, let's go, you'll never catch
it.
Courtney pulls on Connor who finally gives in. Although he
still looks back at the carriage as she pulls him along.
ANGLE ON the Carriage as is continues down the street and disappears
into the darkness.
CUT TO: EXT. CITY STREETS AROUND TEMPLE SQUARE -- LATER - ESTABLISHING - Downtown Salt Lake City, full of high rise buildings, parking
meters, and the like. Clean looking and very well landscaped.
Connor and Courtney now walk along perfectly groomed sidewalk.
Lined with a cobble stone wall, and trees that form a canopy.
COURTNEY
So you seem pretty attached to that
bag?
CONNOR
Yeah well, that's the second one
I've lost today, I should have never
taken it.
As they turn a corner into a beautiful courtyard that runs
through the middle of the block, Courtney jumps up on small
wall that surrounds one of the many gardens. Balancing as
they walk.
COURTNEY
What is it?
Connor watches her as she traverses the wall. CONNOR
A Computer.
COURTNEY
Why did you bring a Computer to the
Train Station?
CONNOR
(sigh)
Good question.
(beat)
My sister insisted I take it until
mine was returned.
Courtney stops, she has just realized that the lady that
dropped him off might not be his wife or girlfriend.
COURTNEY
Is that who gave you the bag?
Connor, now a few steps ahead of her, stops. He looks at
her with question.
COURTNEY
Your sister, is that who gave you
the bag when you came in the Station?
He's not sure where that came from, CONNOR
Yeah.. She brought me down after a
Benefit Banquet.
COURTNEY
So you're not married?
CONNOR
(laughing)
No, I'm not married.
(beat)
never have been.
(beat)
You?
She continues to walk along the edge of the garden. COURTNEY
(shaking her head)
No... but I've tried a lot, just
never found that one.
Connor watches her walk past, now he is really confused. CONNOR
Which one?
Connor begins to again walk beside Courtney. COURTNEY
You know? That one,
(beat)
that one who makes every day a little
brighter, can make you laugh when
your down, you know your standard
Love Song romance.
Connor understands what she is saying, but he's never
experienced it. He gets caught in the thought for a moment.
COURTNEY
So, do you have someone like that?
CONNOR
I've got a dog,
(completely serious)
does that count?
COURTNEY
Do you two have a song?
CONNOR
A song?
(beat)
No, no song, but he never forgets
our anniversary.
COURTNEY
Oh, that's important, but the real
test is if he brings you flowers for
no reason at all.
Connor thinks for a moment. CONNOR
Yeah, yeah I guess so then.
COURTNEY
So your dog brings you flowers?
CONNOR
Well, actually he dug up the neighbors
rose bushes, drug them all the way
around to the front yard.
Connor looks to Courtney for an answer, Courtney doesn't
know what to say...
COURTNEY
Um....I don't think that qualifies
CONNOR
Oh well, at least he appreciates my
sense of humor.
COURTNEY
(sarcastically)
You have a sense of humor?
CONNOR
(not amused)
Well, I though I did, until a moment
ago.
Courtney comes to the end of the small wall and stops. COURTNEY
So, which way to we go now?
Connor doesn't hesitate to answer, he we is familiar with
their surroundings
CONNOR
(pointing)
Through there to the street, then to
the right a couple of blocks.
COURTNEY
Wanna race?
Very seriously Connor replies CONNOR
No!
COURTNEY
I'm sorry, did you think this was a
democracy?
(beat)
Go!
Courtney jumps down off her perch and begins to run in the
direction Connor had pointed.
Connor's head drops in frustration. CONNOR
(to himself)
Why me?
EXT. CITY STREET, IN FRONT OF A MALL ENTRANCE -- MOMENTS
LATER
- Establishing - We see the entrance to a mall from the city streets. Several
closed glass doors lead into a darkened mall. The front of
the mall is very well lit from surrounding street lighting.
From around a nearby corner Courtney appears, still running,
she has a big smile on her face. As she approaches the
entrance to the mall she, looks back for Connor. With a
surprised look on her face, she slows down, eventually
stopping directly in front of the mall.
Although she is no longer running, she still continues to
walk in circles. Like a well trained athlete, she checks
her pulse by placing her index finger over her wrist, then
glances at her wrist watch.
While she take her pulse, Courtney continues to keep an eye
out for Connor. Although she is obviously in better shape
than he is, Connor should have been here already.
Just as Courtney finished taking her pulse, Connor appears
from around the corner, walking slowly. Although it is
obvious that he is completely out of shape, he hides it well.
The only indication we have is the fact that he holds his
side, and is sweating like a race horse.
COURTNEY
I told you, you should get more
exercise.
Connor sits down on a cement street planter that is just
outside the mall.
CONNOR
I think you're right,
(beat)
Just give me a minute.
Courtney laughs and walks over to one of the doors that leads
into the mall. As if to flaunt the fact that she is in great
shape, or maybe even just to flaunt her great shape:
COURTNEY
You should always remember to stretch
after you run.
(she grabs one of the
door handles)
This is good to stretch the back of
your legs.
As she leans over, she gets a good stretch, then shifts her
weight to stretch her back, pulling on the door, she falls
back when the door comes flying open.
ANGLE ON COURTNEY
This is good to stretch your back
toooooo.
as she falls out of scene. Connor jumps to her aid and immediately helps her up. CONNOR
(very concerned)
Are you okay?
As she gets up. COURTNEY
Yeah, is this place open at night?
CONNOR
(looking)
No, I don't think so, it's too dark
inside.
For the first time, Courtney looks at her surroundings. COURTNEY
Is this a mall?
CONNOR
(looking up)
Yeah.
COURTNEY
(excited)
Let's go inside!
Connor is a little too conservative to trespass on private
property.
CONNOR
I don't think that's good idea.
COURTNEY
Why not, there's nobody here.
CONNOR
Exactly!
COURTNEY
Awe, C'mon, live a little. I've
always wanted to wander around in a
store after they closed.
Courtney pulls open the door and coaxes Connor inside. COURTNEY
C'mon, you know you want to.
(beat)
I'll get scared all by myself, and
your suppose to protect me.
Courtney flutters her helpless eyes using her Girlish charm,
Connor goes against his better judgment, and only after
looking around to see if anyone is watching.
INT. DARKENED CLOSED MALL -- MOMENTS LATER - ESTABLISHING - Very few lights are providing lighting for the empty darkened
mall. Every shop has a metal gate covering its entrance.
Courtney runs from store to store peering through the glass.
Maybe she is looking for something particular, but she just
keeps going. While Connor just walks down the middle of the
hall watching her go, looking behind him every once in a
while to check for anybody else.
CONNOR
(looking behind him)
Have you seen enough yet?
(beat, turning back
around)
can we go now before someone comes
and arrests us?
Not stopping to talk COURTNEY
Who's going to arrest us? It's the
middle of the night.
CONNOR
Well, I don't know,
(beat)
the Easter Bunny?
(beat)
maybe He didn't have time to lay
enough chocolate Bunnies, So he'll
be dropping by to pick some up.
Ever think about that?
(beat)
He hears us in here, and being the
good samaritan that he is, he calls
the police.
(beat)
So in turn, they call the national
guard in, because The Easter Bunny
spent too much time visiting Easter
Egg hunts instead of making chocolate
bunnies.
(beat)
and what does the National Guard do?
They send out the weekend warriors
who in turn shoot first and ask
questions later.
(beat, completely
into his story)
So now here we are standing completely
out in the open, WAITING for the
Easter Bunny....
COURTNEY
Connor?
CONNOR
The Police, and The National Guard's
weekend warriors to come in here and
TAKE US DOWN!
COURTNEY
(yelling)
Connor!
Connor stops his little fantasy. CONNOR
Well, you never know.
Courtney, like most of the night, has been thinking about
other things and doesn't really care what Connor was saying.
COURTNEY
What's your friend like?
Connor is wondering what he missed.. CONNOR
Which friend?
COURTNEY
The one that you would wait around a
Train Station on Easter Eve for,
chancing that the Easter Bunny might
not stop by your house because you're
breaking and entering.
Connor thinks about it for a moment as he continues to walk CONNOR
(thinking hard)
Well, I guess just that, a friend.
(beat)
We've know each other for a long
time, but it's always been a long
distance relationship.
(beat)
We've always talked about getting
together during a vacation or a long
weekend,to see what would happen.
(beat)
I guess this it that weekend.
COURTNEY
Do you love her?
CONNOR
Well, we've always had a long distance
relationship, I mean we seem to be
perfect for each other, but I think
that's what this week is suppose to
determine. If what we've had is
real, or just convenient.
(beat)
How about you? Are you in love with
Mr. no-show?
Just thinking about him her entire demeanor changes. It's
really pretty obvious. But she struggles with some different
emotions.
COURTNEY
(smiling)
I thought I was,
(smiles gone)
but now I don't know.
(beat)
I've been second guessing it since I
left Boston. Then when I arrived
and he wasn't there to pick me up,
I just..... I don't know.
Courtney takes a few steps backwards then turns around and
continues walking.
COURTNEY
I guess we probably should get out
of this place?
Courtney only walks 10'-20' before coming to the middle of
the mall where halls go off in several directions, all looking
about the same. In the center are escalators going both up
to a second level second down to a lower level.
COURTNEY
Which way do we go?
Without a moment's hesitation, Courtney journeys down another
leg of the mall.
-ESTABLISHING- This hall is like the others except it has a specialty
clothing shop which is of particular interest to Connor.
Inside the main window is a hideous orange and blue outfit,
exactly like the one He was wearing earlier.
Courtney continues to look around for anything of interest. CONNOR
I thought you wanted to get out of
here?
She is about 10 feet in front of Connor. COURTNEY
I do, and this looks like as good a
direction to go as any.
Courtney suddenly stops at the specialty shop, and out of
mere coincidence makes a joke about the orange and blue suit.
COURTNEY
I think this would look kinda snazzy
on you.
Connor also stops and looks at the suit. CONNOR
Trust me, not a chance.
COURTNEY
(making fun)
What, you don't like it?
Still walking, not looking back. CONNOR
Nope.
Courtney spots the price tag dangling from the cuff of one
of the sleeves, bending over to look, she is almost
speechless.
Chasing after Connor, COURTNEY
$9,500.00
(beat)
that suit is $9,500.00!
Connor stops dead in his tracks. He closes his eyes and
lets out big sigh.
COURTNEY
What's wrong?
Connor opens one eye and looks at Courtney, then shakes his
head, as if to say, "no, don't ask".
COURTNEY
What?
Opening his eyes, this is the first time we see Connor let
his guard down and open up to Courtney.
CONNOR
(smiling)
Let me tell you about the day I have
had.
Connor and Courtney continue to walk through the mall. CONNOR
This morning I was in New York City
on business, I had flown in on Monday
and was suppose to leave on Wednesday,
but there were some problems with
the contract that I went there to
finalize.
(beat)
So I postponed coming back to Salt
Lake until today. Which was good
news for me because the contracts
weren't ready until 7:30 this morning.
(beat)
I left my hotel pretty early this
morning to go sign the contracts,
and got back to my hotel room about
11:00, only to find out that
everything had been stolen.
(beat)
Which included the first Computer I
lost today.
COURTNEY
Everything?
CONNOR
Everything, towels, robes,
(emphasizing)
The Garbage Can!, who breaks into a
Thousand Dollar a Night hotel room
and takes the garbage can?
Courtney can't help but smile. She is very involved with
Connor's story. She listens intensely and her facial
expressions tell all.
COURTNEY
Where were you staying?
CONNOR
At a brand new 5 star hotel in NY,
it's called The Waltser Hotel.
(beat)
Beautiful hotel, five star everything,
(beat)
it had only been open a week when I
checked in.
(beat)
So I called the front desk and told
them what had happened.
Courtney just listens as they continue to walk. CONNOR
Of course they apologized and groveled
for a little while, then they said
that they would pay for anything
that was stolen.
(beat)
And just before I got off the phone
they insisted that I enjoy a nice
brunch before I left for the airport.
(beat)
so of course I went and had a free
meal.
Courtney can only anticipate what might of happened at the
restaurant.
COURTNEY
Oh no, what happened at the
restaurant?
CONNOR
Nothing, it was great, but I was
running a little late because I took
advantage of the free food,
(patting his tummy)
I ate just a little too much.
(beat)
so I rushed out the front doors of
the hotel to get to my limo that was
waiting.
Connor shakes his head as he recalls the events. CONNOR
I walked right out the front door, I
looked over at the limo, then out of
nowhere, I get hit with splatters of
red, white and blue, dye.
(beat)
When I looked around to see where it
was coming from, I saw 10 or 12
demonstrators throwing water balloons
at the hotel entrance
(beat)
except they were filled with dyes,
not water.
COURTNEY
Why?
CONNOR
Well, come to find out, the developers
had knocked down a civil liberties
building to put up a parking garage
for the hotel.
Courtney is dumbfounded by what she is being told. COURTNEY
And they hit you?
CONNOR
Among other things,
(beat)
And that wasn't the worse part,
(beat)
The police that were at the hotel
for the thefts, wanted my suit as
evidence.
Courtney can't help but laugh. COURTNEY
Really?
CONNOR
(beat)
I just wanted to get on a plane and
come home, but the police said I had
to leave the suit, because it was
the only thing that was considered
destroyed.
(beat)
It didn't matter that I had nothing
to change into, or that I had a flight
to catch in less than an hour.
(beat)
So the hotel manager gave me that
Orange and Blue getup you saw back
there.
COURTNEY
Why would they have a $9,500 suit?
CONNOR
A maid found it in the room of some
LA Rappers group.
(sarcastically)
lucky for me!
COURTNEY
Do you get to keep it?
CONNOR
(sincerely)
I really wish that was the case.
COURTNEY
Really?
CONNOR
Yeah, I had my Butler burn it when I
got home.
(beat)
I had no idea it was going to cost
me ten grand.
Courtney laughs as they stop, once again at the center of
the mall.
Both look around realizing that they just made a big circle.
Connor leans back against the railing that keeps people from
falling to the lower level.
CONNOR
(pointing back)
Why don't we try the way we came in?
COURTNEY
(still looking around)
Because we've already been that way.
Suddenly Courtney spots something of interest on the lower
level. Without a moment's hesitation, she begins to walk
towards the motionless escalator, while trying to decipher
what it is that she sees on the level below.
Connor notices that she has spotted something and realizes
that she isn't committed to leaving anytime soon.
Taking a few steps towards the entrance they came in. CONNOR
Come on, lets get out of here.
Looking back, Connor see's that she is already half way down
the escalator.
Connor weighs the options at hand. He turns as if to leave,
but just can't bring himself to leave her here by her self,
so he follows her
CUT TO: INT. DARKENED CLOSED MALL, L.LEVEL FOOD COURT -- CONTINUOUS -ESTABLISHING- A variety of fast food restaurant chains line the perimeter
walls of this lower level, along with hundreds of tables and
chairs strategically placed throughout the open area.
Connor is now making his way down the escalator to the lower
level. He is looking around for Courtney, but he can't seem
to spot her.
As he reaches the bottom. CONNOR
(yelling whisper)
Courtney!
(beat)
Where are you?
COURTNEY
Why are you whispering?
He looks over to find Courtney inside a a very large castle
made of uncrushed Coke cans.
All of the cans are turned to show primarily red, however
some are turned to reveal mainly white, which draw a giant
Coca-cola swoosh along the front of the soda pop can castle.
Courtney is just coming out of the entrance to the castle. CONNOR
What are you doing?
COURTNEY
Isn't this cool?
(beat)
It's like a two bedroom apartment in
there.
Connor looks around for a moment. CONNOR
I think we should go that way.
Hearing no response, Connor turns to see Courtney staring at
the Coca-Cola Castle.
CONNOR
Hello?
Courtney takes a moment to answer, as she slowly cocks her
head side to side.
COURTNEY
Is it just me, or is there a
(air drawing with her
hand)
swoosh across the front of this?
Connor steps behind her to get a better look. CONNOR
It's just you.
COURTNEY
No seriously, I think there is.
(beat)
It's like one of those pictures you
have to stare at for a long time
before you see it.
Connor looks a little closer, cocks his head to the side,
then smiles. There really is swoosh.
Just then a flash of light crossed the castle. Causing both
Connor and Courtney to look behind them, where they see a
MALL SECURITY GUARD standing on the upper level shining his
flashlight down into the lower level.
Both freeze, realizing he has yet to see them. But that
only lasts a moment before the light passes over them.
MALL SECURITY GUARD
(yelling)
Hey!
Connor grabs Courtney's hand and pulls her back behind a
nearby ARBY'S counter.
ANGLE ON the over weight Security Guard, who staggers down the
escalator, shining his flashlight in the direction they ran.
The Security Guard has to stop at the bottom of the stairs
to catch his breath. Looking around he doesn't see anyone.
Grabbing his radio, yells for backup
MALL SECURITY GUARD
(into radio)
Jim, I've got intruders on level B.
ANGLE ON Connor and Courtney who crouch behind the counter. Connor
just listens, while Courtney can't help but peak over the
counter.
P.O.V Courtney slowly peaks her head up over the counter, where
she sees the Security Guard still trying to catch his breath.
MALL SECURITY GUARD #2 (O.S.)
Do you have visual?
MALL SECURITY GUARD
Negative, I spotted them from level
1, but when I got down here they
were gone.
MALL SECURITY GUARD #2 (O.S.)
I'm on my way, I'll bet there hiding
underneath a table or something
nearby. Check 'em all out.
MALL SECURITY GUARD
Roger that.
The Security Guard pulls out his night stick and heads away
from camera, shining his flashlight underneath and around
all of the tables and chairs.
ANGLE ON Connor and Courtney, who are both now watching the Security
Guard.
CONNOR
(whispering)
There is an exit right over there!
Connor motions to an exit sign hanging from the ceiling just
on the other side of the Coke Castle.
COURTNEY
(whispering)
Okay, I'll go first.
Courtney waits for just the right moment then quietly runs
towards the exit, ducking inside the Coke Castle.
ANGLE ON Connor who now waits for just the right moment. Crouched
down, he springs forward and sprints towards the Coke Castle.
Connor isn't as graceful as Courtney, and quickly draws the
attention of the Security Guard.
Hearing the noise, the Guard immediately points his flashlight
at the Coke Castle. Surprisingly we see nothing, just the
Coke Castle. However, he heads towards them. He is sure he
heard something.
The Guard approaches the Coke Castle and points his flashlight
inside, flooding the interior of the aluminum structure, he
begins to poke his head inside for a better look.....
MALL SECURITY GUARD #2 (O.S.)
What are you doing?
Startled, the Guard pulls his head out, shinning his
flashlight into the face of the other guard.
MALL SECURITY GUARD #2
(putting his hands up
to block the light)
Get that thing out of my face!
MALL SECURITY GUARD
Sorry, I though I heard something
over hear.
The Guard #2 shines his light behind the structure. Seeing
nothing.
MALL SECURITY GUARD #2
Did you already check out all the
tables?
ANGLE ON the inside of the Coke Castle we see Connor and Courtney
standing inside the towers that make up the two front corners
of the castle. It is amazing that they can fit in these
small alcoves.
MALL SECURITY GUARD (O.S.)
I started to but then I heard
something.
MALL SECURITY GUARD #2 (O.S.)
Finish looking there, while I look
behind the counters.
Courtney immediately comes out from her hiding places, while
Connor merely peers out.
COURTNEY
C'mon, let's go.
CONNOR
(shaking his head)
They won't look in here again, let's
just wait until there gone.
Courtney looks out again then looks back over at Connor. COURTNEY
There both way over there, I'm going.
Courtney disappears out of the Coke Castle. ANGLE ON Connor as he hesitantly moves towards the entrance. Slowly
he moves closer and closer. Finally reaching the entrance,
he slowly peers out from the shadows. Looking left, his
eyes scan the area, but find nothing. The coast is clear.
Then Connor sinks back into the shadows, getting up the
courage to join Courtney. Then Suddenly, from out of nowhere,
Courtney comes running back into the Coke Castle, running
directly into Connor.
Knocking Connor back into the rear wall of the Coke Castle,
Courtney lands on top of him, as the Aluminum structure begins
to crumble.
When the dust clears, Courtney lies on top of Connor, both
covered in a mountain of aluminum cans.
Both look a little surprised, but Courtney looks a little
invigorated by the events. She is having a blast.
COURTNEY
(smiling)
Sorry.
Connor just looks at her beautiful face which gazes at him.
The moment begins to build just as they are illuminated by
flashlight beams from across the courtyard.
Neither Connor nor Courtney hesitates to run. Although Connor
stumbles through the hundreds of cans to get to the exit,
Courtney takes it in stride.
Both fly through the doors into the Service Corridor marked
EMERGENCY EXIT ONLY.
CUT TO: INT. DARKENED CLOSED MALL, SERVICE CORRIDOR -- CONTINUOUS -ESTABLISHING - Connor and Courtney are now inside a service corridor which
twists and turns. Both continue to run until they reach
another set of doors that leads outside.
CUT TO: INT. DARKENED CLOSED MALL, L.LEVEL FOOD COURT -- MOMENTS
LATER
Both Security Guards are running after Connor and Courtney
who have just bolted through the Emergency Exit.
Mall Guard #2 is leading the way until he slips of one of
the aluminum cans and lands flat on his back. Guard #1 stops
to check on his colleague.
MALL SECURITY GUARD
Are you all right?
MALL SECURITY GUARD #2
(wind knocked out of
him)
Go after them.
Mall Guard #1 hesitates for a moment then continues after
them, while Guard #2 just lays there..
CUT TO: INT. DARKENED CLOSED MALL, SERVICE CORRIDOR -- MOMENTS LATER Connor and Courtney have reached the end of the corridor,
where another door leads to the outside. Both barrel through
the door.
CUT TO: EXT. CITY STREETS, REAR OF MALL -- CONTINUOUS - ESTABLISHING - Connor and Courtney have exited the mall into an alley which
runs between buildings.
They hesitate a moment before, CONNOR
Come on this way.
They continue to run through the alley until they come to a
set of stairs that takes them up to the front of SYMPHONY
HALL.
EXT. CITY STREETS, IN FRONT OF SYMPHONY HALL -- CONTINUOUS - ESTABLISHING - This beautiful building has a giant glass front, which reveals
an elegant staircase and lobby inside. The area between the
building and the street is divided equally. Half is grass
dotted with beautiful trees, while the other half is a giant
concert patio with a line of 40 fountains that reach 7 feet
into the air.
Connor and Courtney run out into the open where Connor has
to STOP. Barely able to breathe, Connor leans over to try
and catch his breath but ends up falling on his butt.
Both look behind to see if anyone is following, but after a
few moments they are in the clear.
It's only now that Courtney notices her surroundings. ANGLE ON Courtney who stares through the giant glass wall. Then she
suddenly turns around.
FOCUS CHANGES to show the reflection that had caught her attention. The
GIANT GOLD STATUE.
Courtney just can't believe the environment she stands in. MUSIC BEGINS: Courtney can't help but dance around as if part of ballet. After a minute, Connor has finally recovered enough to notice
Courtney frolicking around.
Angle cut multiple times, showing her dancing as he watches.
Fountains fill the background, creating a perfect backdrop.
Connor stands up and moves around her, watching, admiring. Courtney ends when she notices Connor, and the look he is
giving her, she moves closer to him until she stops right in
front of him.
Both stand entranced in the others eyes, she moves closer
and closer slowly tilting her head to the side. Connor is
totally caught in the moment as well.
AS THE MUSIC ENDS: CAMERA MOVES 360 DEGREE around Connor and Courtney as they embrace in a sweet gentle
kiss.
When the MUSIC FADES COMPLETELY OUT the KISS ENDS. Both stand looking at each other. Connor smiles causing
Courtney to also smile.
The moment is broken when: MALL SECURITY GUARD
Hey you! Stay right there!
The MALL SECURITY GUARD is a 40+ 250 LBS man who carries a
flashlight and has a twinkie sticking out of his pocket. He
has yet to reach the top of the stairs.
Courtney and Connor are startled but don't think twice about
running off. Connor grabs her hand and she laughs as they
run off.
The security guard takes a few more steps, but just gives up
the chase. He sinks down against the wall. reaching in his
pocket, he grabs for his twinkie, opening it and eating as
if.....
CUT TO: EXT. CITY STREETS -- MOMENTS LATER - ESTABLISHING - Connor and Courtney have found themselves in a courtyard
type area. Full of trees, a fountain, and relative seclusion
from the rest of the world.
They are still holding hands and laughing. They have no
care for the Security guard. It was obvious that they were
in the clear.
It takes a moment before Connor composes himself and looks
Courtney in the eyes.
His straight look causes Courtney to become uncomfortable,
she knows he's about to ruin the moment. Both come to the
realization that this was probably a mistake.
CONNOR
I'm sorry, I shouldn't have kissed
you back there.
COURTNEY
No it was my fault.
Courtney lets go of his hands and turns, walking over to a
rose bush, she pulls a bulb off and places it below her nose
smelling its sweet fragrance.
CONNOR
(concerned, worried)
It's not you,
(beat)
It's just bad timing.
ANGLE ON Connor's Watch which shows 4:35. CONNOR
The train will be here in less than
an hour.
Courtney turns to face Connor. Tears are running down her
face. Although she is crying, she is very well composed.
It's not necessarily that Connor has pushed her away. It's
just her expectations for the week were so high. Everything
seems to be going against her.
COURTNEY
(smiling)
I don't even know why I'm crying,
I've spent three days on a train
traveling through the most beautiful
country in the world,
(beat)
I've been able to see a nice old
man's life saved.
(laughing)
I've been able to have a mini
adventure with a multi-millionaire,
while wearing his Armani tuxedo
jacket.
(beat)
What more could a girl ask for.
Connor doesn't know what to say. He wants to kiss her again,
but his dream girl is suppose to be getting off a train in
50 minutes.
Then before either can do anything more, SIRENS are heard
and FLASHING RED LIGHTS can be seen through the outlying
shrubbery.
COURTNEY
Do you think they called the police?
Connor thinks for a moment. CONNOR
Those aren't from a cop car,
(beat)
That's an ambulance or fire truck.
(seriously grave)
and the only thing down that way is
the Train Station.
COURTNEY
Frank?
Courtney immediately runs out of the courtyard, with Connor
right behind her.
CUT TO: END OF ACT FOUR ACT FIVE EXT. TRAIN STATION - FRONT OF, -- MOMENTS LATER - ESTABLISHING - An ambulance sits cockeyed in front of the Train Station.
Its emergency lights are still spinning.
Both Connor and Courtney have arrived just as they are
bringing out a covered body on a gurney. Courtney stops
dead in her tracks. She covers her face in horror and turns
away, right into Connor's arms.
Connor just looks on as they place the gurney into the
Ambulance.
DISSOLVE TO: EXT. TRAIN STATION - FRONT OF, -- LATER - ESTABLISHING - The ambulance is now gone. Only one police car remains.
Both Courtney and Connor sit on the curb next to each other.
Not the perfect end to an evening. Not much more could go
wrong for Courtney. While Connor still has his girlfriend
to pickup.
Connor looks at his watch the, TIME IS 5:28. COURTNEY
What time is it?
CONNOR
Five Twenty-Eight.
COURTNEY
Your train should be here soon.
CONNOR
Yeah.
Courtney begins to take off his Tux Coat. COURTNEY
Thanks for the coat.
CONNOR
No, keep it on.
Courtney continues to remove the coat and hands it to Connor. COURTNEY
It's your Coat.
But when Connor takes hold of the coat his Cell Phone and
Gold Business Card Holder fall to the ground, spilling out a
few business cards.
COURTNEY
I'm sorry.
Connor picks up his phone and also begins to place the cards
back in the case, both stand up, as Connor then hands Courtney
a business card.
CONNOR
Maybe we can keep in touch?
Courtney smiles as she briefly looks over the card. ANGLE ON Connor's business card which shows in large letters: Cymbeline.Com MASTER ANGLE CONNOR
My office number is on there, but
Betty can get you in touch with me
anytime day or night.
(beat)
You can also e-mail me, the address
is on there too.
Courtney doesn't really pay much attention to the card, she
is caught in the idea that maybe their relationship isn't
over, or maybe it's his way of brushing her off.
COURTNEY
(fake smile)
I would like that.
Both just let the awkward moment continue. As they both
ponder the possibility of someday fate bringing them back
together again.
In the background we hear a TRAIN WHISTLE blow. CONNOR
Well I better go.... and..
(pointing inside)
you know, be at the train.
Connor takes a few steps backwards. Courtney just watches
him without responding.
It's like pulling apart two really strong magnets. It's
possible but it takes some work.
But Connor has now reached the door. Turning around, he
opens it, only looking back once to see if she is still
watching, which she is. Then he continues inside towards
Gate #2.
P.O.V Courtney watches Connor until he is gone from site. ANGLE ON Courtney as she sits back down on the curb. She glances at
the card again,
COURTNEY
Cymbeline Dot Com
Then slips it into a pocket and just reflects for a moment. CUT TO: INT. TRAIN STATION - GATE 2 -- MOMENTS LATER - ESTABLISHING - The train from San Francisco has arrived but no passengers
have gotten off.
Connor has just walked around the corner into the Gate area.
He is in deep thought. It is obvious that he is thinking
about something very serious.
Then out of No-where Connor turns around as if to go back to
Courtney.
FRANK
Now arriving Amtrak #105 from San
Francisco arriving at gate number 2.
Then all of the air pumps simultaneously release a hiss as
the train doors open.
Connor hesitates just long enough to cringe. He turns to
see a few people get off of the train THEN:
P.O.V Connor makes eye contact with MONICA LEWIS, a stunningly
beautiful woman (who is so totally wrong for him) who smiles
a surprised to see you smile at him.
ANGLE BACK ON Connor who looks pleasantly surprised to see Monica. CUT TO: EXT. TRAIN STATION - FRONT OF, -- MOMENTS LATER Courtney still sits on the curb. But now we see the late
night is wearing on her. She places her hands over her face
and runs her fingers through her hair, trying to release
some tension.
As she shakes her head at the events that have transpired
over the last 12 hours, she is totally take off guard.
FRANK
Can I get you something?
Courtney jumps up to see Frank standing behind her. His
head is poked out through the door of the Train Station.
COURTNEY
(yelling)
FRANK!
Courtney jumps up, then runs over and hugs him. COURTNEY
We thought you.....
(beat, confused)
Who was that in the ambulance?
(beat)
It wasn't you?
FRANK
Of course it wasn't me.
(beat, laughing)
Oh, did you think I was the one that
kicked the bucket?
(beat,)
No, Arnie was trying to throw out
one of the guys from the shelter.
He got so upset that his heart gave
out.
(beat)
I called 911, but they couldn't do
anything for him.
Courtney smacks Frank on the arm. COURTNEY
I can't believe you did that to me
(beat)
where have you been then?
FRANK
I went over to announce the train
coming in from San Francisco.
(beat)
You know it's now my responsibility
to take care of this place?
Courtney doesn't understand why Frank is always so nice, to
even worry about it after Bartlett Nelson has put him out.
COURTNEY
Frank why are you so nice?
(beat)
you know it's not your responsibility,
Arnie worked for the Bartlett guy,
let him take care of it.
FRANK
You don't understand, Mr. Nelson was
here not more than 90 minutes ago
(Pulling out a Deed)
He gave me this and the deed to my
house too.
Courtney grabs the paper from Frank and looks it over. She
is in total shock as she reads through it.
COURTNEY
This is the deed to the entire Train
Station.
FRANK
I know, I tried to tell him I only
wanted to keep the Cafe open, but it
seems that the cafe is part of the
Station. I tried to explain, but he
just signed it, then
(pulling out the sales
contract, the keys
and a check)
gave me these things.
Courtney grabs the Gold keys, with a distinct Cadillac
insignia and a Check for Three Million Eight Hundred and
Thirty-two Dollars and Ninety Cents ($3,000,832.90).
Courtney holds up the keys then directs her attention to the
check, which she has to look at extra hard, before falling
over backwards. Landing on her butt, she just blankly stares
at Frank.
COURTNEY
Are these real?
Frank smiles at her as he helps her up. FRANK
Well, the Cadillac is right over
there. The keys open the door and
start it up.
(beat)
Lets get you inside.
Frank helps Courtney, who just keeps looking at the check,
still trying to see how she must be seeing something that
isn't there. She even rubs her eyes.
CUT TO: INT. TRAIN STATION CAFE -- MOMENTS LATER Frank is still helping Courtney who just doesn't believe it. COURTNEY
Does this say Three Million Dollars?
FRANK
(chuckling)
I told Mr. Nelson it was a mistake,
But he insisted on me taking it.
Frank sits her down at the same spot she sat just hours
before.
FRANK
Let me get you a cup of cocoa.
Courtney now stares at the check which is in front of her on
the counter.
COURTNEY
(to herself)
He wasn't lying.
FRANK
I still don't think I would have
believed it if I hadn't been here to
see it.
COURTNEY
So what will you do now?
FRANK
I'm going to go down and have Rosie's
head stone finished. Then I don't
know, we'll just have to see what
happens.
(beat)
Where is Connor at? I don't know
why he did this, but I have to thank
him.
COURTNEY
(a little bitter)
He went to meet his girlfriend coming
from San Francisco.
FRANK
Oh?
(beat)
So I guess you will be heading back
to Boston then?
COURTNEY
Yeah, I think so.
FRANK
Back to your family and friends?
COURTNEY
No, all of my family lives in
Washington, and I spend too much
time at school to have made any
friends in Boston.
Courtney is waiting for Frank to show her sympathy and is a
little taken back by what he says.
FRANK
Did Connor ever tell you what it was
that he does for a living?
COURTNEY
(taken back)
Yeah? He owns an internet company.
FRANK
Hmm... It seems like everyone today
is on the internet.
A moment passes before Frank continues. He pulls out a white
towel and begins wiping down the counter.
FRANK
Do you know who CYMBELINE was?
Again, Courtney is confused and somewhat taken back by Franks
question.
COURTNEY
No.
FRANK
Cymbeline was a King in a play. A
King that through all of the tragedy
in his own country, managed to create
peace among nations and among
families.
Courtney just listens trying to decipher the meaning of what
Frank is saying. But she just doesn't get it.
COURTNEY
Am I missing something?
FRANK
(Grabbing the card
from his pocket)
Well, It's also the Name on Connor's
business card.
She pulls out the card from her pocket COURTNEY
I know he gave me one too,
(sarcastically)
right before he gave me the brush
off.
Courtney is obviously frustrated because she rips up the
card.
COURTNEY
This is stupid, I've got to focus on
finishing school, I've got to get
back to Boston,
(beat)
Frank, when is the next train to
Boston?
Frank looks at his watch. FRANK
Train #314 leaves for Boston at 9:30
from gate #2.
She wasn't expecting that much info. COURTNEY
And you know this because?
Frank Smiles FRANK
When you've been here as long as I
have, you get to know the schedules.
She is satisfied with that answer. COURTNEY
You know Frank, I really like it
here, It's like a mini Boston.
(beat)
I wouldn't mind living here.
Frank tucks the white towel into his pocket and looks directly
at Courtney.
FRANK
Do you know who wrote Cymbeline?
COURTNEY
No?
FRANK
It was written about Four hundred
Years ago by a man named Bill.
COURTNEY
Bill?
FRANK
(smiling)
Billy?
COURTNEY
Billy?
FRANK
William?
COURTNEY
William.......Shakespeare?
Frank just smiles and continues to straighten up. He walks
around the counter to straighten some tables. While Courtney
figures out what he is trying to tell her.
Then suddenly it clicks. She pulls the ripped shreds of
Connor's business card, frantically she puts it together
enough to read:
E-MAIL - ShakespeareInSLC@Aol.Com A beautiful smile comes across her face and the realization
of the truth brings everything to light.
COURTNEY
But he's waiting for a train from
San Francisco?
FRANK
Which just happens to the be the
transfer station for all of
Washington.
She looks at Frank. COURTNEY
You've known the whole time?
FRANK
(smiling)
I once heard someone say "You just
have to pay attention".
(beat)
I think you need to pay a little
more attention.
Courtney realizes that Connor is standing somewhere else in
the Train Station waiting for her.
COURTNEY
(totally ecstatic)
I've got to find Connor.
Courtney jumps up and runs out of the Cafe. While Frank
glows with pride.
CUT TO: INT. TRAIN STATION - GATE 2 -- MOMENTS LATER Courtney enters the scene looking around. At first she
doesn't see Connor, just a man with two children getting a
drink at a drinking fountain, and the Monica Lewis talking
with someone.
Then it hits her, Connor is talking to this woman. P.O.V Courtney watches for a moment to be sure. But then she sees
him clearly as this flirtatious woman shifts her weight.
That's when her heart falls into her stomach. She stands
there stuck in her tracks, as she just watches as they
"flirt".
A moment goes by before the man with the children approaches
the two of them, placing his arm around the woman. A moment
goes by, the two men shake hands and the woman and her family
walk off in the opposite direction.
Connor watches them walk off then turns to see the gate area
empty, except for Courtney who stands there watching him.
A smile comes to his face as he sees her. They stand there
watching each other only for a moment before
OVER THE LOUD SPEAKER WE HEAR FRANK (O.S.)
Good Morning Ladies and Gentlemen
and Happy Easter.
(beat)
As the new Owner and Manager of the
Salt Lake City Train Station, I would
like to extend a special Thanks to
Mr. Connor Jackobsen of Cymbeline
Dot Com, for his assistance and
generosity, it will not be forgotten.
Connor looks around listening, he smiles with knowing that
Frank received a visit. He then looks to Courtney to see if
she realizes he was telling the truth.
Courtney smiles a beautiful smile back at Connor. FRANK
I would like to take this opportunity
to relay a message to Mr. Jackobsen
in regards to a passenger on Amtrak
#105.
(beat)
It seems that there has been a
mistake, the train he is waiting for
arrived at 5:30 last evening from
Boston.
Connor's face becomes very serious as he listens, while
Courtney watches in anticipation as to his reaction.
FRANK
We apologize for the inconvenience.
(beat)
Again, Happy Easter to all.
A tiny smile come to Connor's face as he debates if this is
a joke or not. What going on?
But after looking at Courtney he realizes that she is
`SeattleGirl07734`.
Then Connor's face shows the joy in just the possibility.
He mouth's the words:
CONNOR
Really?
Courtney just nods until she sees that he to is as happy as
she is. She runs across the room and jumps into his arms,
immediately embracing and kissing him.
MUSIC BEGINS CAMERA MOVES 360 DEGREE Around them as the embrace in a long kiss. INT. TRAIN STATION - BEHIND TICKET COUNTER -- CONTINUOUS - ESTABLISHING - Frank sits behind the ticket counter laughing. He is watching
a TV MONITOR which displays a black and white picture of
Area Gate #2. Which shows Connor and Courtney embracing in
a long kiss.
ANGLE PULLS BACK from Frank revealing more and more of the train station until
it pulls back out through the front door and down the street.
Until:
FADE OUT TO BLACK: CREDITS BEGIN TO ROLL END OF ACT FIVE |
