Ryan and Greenlee 08/30/2013

Ryan steps from his car removing his sunglasses and tossing them on the seat. He leans back against the door and looks around at the picturesque little village. It was as if the town had been frozen in time with it’s large Victorian and Colonial houses lining the streets as he drove in, the antiquated storefronts surrounding the square one still boasting “General Store 1769”. He spots the white steeple protruding from the top of the band stand in the center of the village square almost completely hidden by tree foliage. He pushes off the door walking towards it glancing around at the smiling villagers with their children playing beneath the mammoth maple and oak trees that dotted the small park. He walks quickly up the steps of the bandstand leaning his hands against the rails starring out across the lush green lawn trying to spot her among the crowd.

Greenlee: Ryan you came. (He spins quickly at the sound of her voice his heart leaping with joy at the sight of her. He rushes towards her his arms embracing her wrapping her tightly within them enjoying the feel of her beneath his finger the smell of her hair. God how he’d missed that) Oh my God Greenlee! Of course I did! Why would you think I wouldn’t? (He pulls away from her starring down in to her eyes twinkling with happiness her expression at peace. She looked happier than he had ever seen her and he felt happier than he’d felt for a long time)

Greenlee: I though maybe you’d …(Her voice trails) it doesn’t matter.

Ryan: I’ve missed you so much (He leans in to kiss her, her expression looks panicked as she pulls away and steps a few paces from him)

Ryan: What’s wrong? We’re finally together Dynamite Kiddo and The Green Butterfly. (He jokes watching her mind tick and her face brighten as she finds the memory)

Greenlee: Wow, I’d almost forgotten about that it seems so long ago. (She smiles wistfully thinking back to that moment as she stares across the lawn)

Ryan: I haven’t forgotten one second of you and me. (Stepping closer to her she feels the warmth of him behind and steps away from his grasp)

Greenlee: A lot has happened since then. (She steals herself shaking the tendrils of hair from her face. Ryan stares at her a moment searching for the love missing from her eyes making the anger within him rise) 

Ryan: Yeah it has. (He sighs struggling to keep the bitterness from his voice)

Greenlee: There’s a lot I have to tell you why don’t we take a little walk? (She nods her head towards the steps then proceeds down them Ryan in tow heading towards the more secluded banks of the river)

Ryan: This is beautiful. (He glances around at the tall trees shading the well-worn path enjoying the sunlight glistening off the water the sound of the woodpecker tapping out a beat high in the tree)

Greenlee: Isn’t it? (She glances up at him a contented smile playing on her lips as she waves to the fisherman sitting on stools next to the banks their lines drifting in the water as the two talk more than fish)

Ryan: It’s so peaceful.

Greenlee: I love it! Every since the day I arrived here I’ve felt that this is where I belong. (Swinging her arms out allowing the breeze to flow through her fingers)

Ryan: Really? (He looks at her curious watch as she closes her eyes allowing the sun to kiss her face)

Greenlee: I’ve never felt that Ryan (Her eyes open and she stares up at him her voice earnest) not with my grandparents not in Pine Valley…

Ryan: Not with me, is that what you’re saying? (He chokes out unable to keep the bitterness from his voice as Greenlee stares at him her eyes pleading)

Greenlee: It’s just I feel at peace here. (She turns sitting on a large rock next to the edged and patting the one across from her)

Ryan: So what about us? (He dusts the sand from the top then sits leaning back a moment letting the calming breeze wash his face and calm his emotions)

Greenlee: I’m sorry Ryan (She sighs her expression pained her shoulders and tone firm) there isn’t an “us” anymore and there hasn’t been an “us” for a long time.

Ryan: I love you Greenlee. (He huffs leaning forward and reaching for her hands folded in her lap his heart sinking a little as she pulls them away letting them rest palms down against the rock)

Greenlee: I loved you to Ryan but that part of my life is over. I have a new life now. (She stares across the river at her little home tucked behind the trees on the hill)

Ryan: And that new life doesn’t include me.

Greenlee: Remember when you lost your memory? (She blurts turning back towards him her stare unwavering her tone burgeoning on annoyance)

Ryan: Yeah, but what does that have to do with anything?

Greenlee: Remember when the only person you could remember was Kendall? (She chuckles bitterly at the memory)

Ryan: Yeah, but I still don’t understand…(She cuts off what he was about to say leaving looking and feeling more confused than before)

Greenlee: The night of the accident When I saw Kendall coming I swerved hit a patch of ice and went flying through the trees I rolled down the embankment toward the river I figured the water would slow me down then I hit a rock or branch I don’t know! It flipped and I was tossed onto a pile of twigs, leaves and debris that was lodged against the rock. I must have been knocked out for a few minutes when I woke up it was dark I had no idea where I was I barely remembered who I was for that matter but I knew I needed help so waded through the water till I got to shore. I didn’t realize I was on the other side. I just started walking when I got to the highway I was cold wet and tired my head was throbbing I remember seeing this huge rock and I leaned up against it a to catch my breath and I prayed to Leo like I always do I opened my eyes a car pulled up and drove me here. (She smiles wistfully at the memory. Ryan stares at her a moment more confused than when she’d started speaking then before, his anger barley in check as his stilted voice grinds out)

Ryan: So you found Paradise and you just abandon me?

Greenlee: That’s not how it happened after he found me I was sick for a really long time I didn’t know where I was, I barely knew who I was and he took care of me. (He glares at her again her expression of sheer love when she spoke of this guy pushing his anger over the edge as he bellows)

Ryan: Okay so let me get this straight you wander to the highway some strange guy picks you up and you decided to live here in fairytale land?

Greenlee: It wasn’t like that! (She shouts back her own anger getting the best of her)

Ryan: Then what was it like Greenlee please explain it to me make me understand why you would let me believe you were dead and just start shacking up with some random guy! What do have some kind of Stockholm syndrome? (He finishes his tirade laughing bitterly)

Greenlee: Unlike you there was no shacking up! (She shoots back enjoying the look of shock on his face) Oh you didn’t think I knew about Liza? I wasn’t dead five minutes before you jumped in bead with her! (She finishes his eye bulging with shock)

Ryan: I was grieving Greenlee because I lost you! (He shouts back) I didn’t know what I was doing, all I wanted was you and all you wanted was some guy you picked up on the side of the highway.

Greenlee: It wasn’t just some guy!

Ryan: Then what was it Greenlee?

Greenlee: It was a lot of things! (She sighs her brow drawn looking nervous)

Ryan: Like what? What aren’t you telling me? Why didn’t you just come home to me? I get it you were sick but what about after that? What about the days weeks months after that? What? Were you too busy spreading your legs for this guy to give me a single thought? (Her anger peaked her voice come out sounding more like the hiss her face contorted with anger)

Greenlee: I’ll tell you why I didn’t come back or tell you I was alive! It was you! You and all the horrible things you were doing to people that were our friends! How could I have come to you then? You would have never understood. Besides he called my father and from that point on my father took care of everything I was in no condition to do anything! (His eye open wide as he shakes his head and laughs)

Ryan: So that’s your excuse? Knowing how much I was hurting you kept it a secret? Oh wait (He says throwing his hands in the air) you didn’t keep it a secret your father did you were too weak to do anything! (He mocks) God Greenlee! I felt as if someone had ripped my heart from my chest! I felt like my life was over! For the second time I’d lost the woman I love. You knew how much Gillian’s death hurt me it almost killed me and you pretended to be dead? What kind of sick game are you playing or was that some kind of punishment for what I did to you, your way of getting even? (His voice pleading as he turns to her the pain in his heart etched across his face quelling some of the anger she’d felt she takes a deep breath then starts agsin)

Greenlee: No Ryan, I wasn’t trying to punish you I would never do that. But, after I found out what my father had done I agreed it was the best solution. You already thought I was dead the connection was already severed. I fully intended to stay dead I was never coming back ever and I never wanted you to find out. (She looks across the river again to gather her strength then turns back toward him)

Ryan: Why? I don’t understand? (He grins that little half grin he always had when he was confused and trying to be patient that now just seemed like it always was placating)

Greenlee: Because I couldn’t let you hurt him not again.(She sighs suddenly tire knowing there was no going back now) 

Ryan: Who the hell is this he?

Greenlee: Leo! He’s alive Ryan he’s here in this town he’s the one that found me.

Ryan: Leo!…(His eyes wide he stutters) He’s alive?

Greenlee: He’s alive Ryan,(She nods her head in confirmation) just like I said and no one would believe me!

Ryan: Oh my God Leo’s alive? (He walks toward the rivers edge then turns back towards her still smiling in disbelief)

Greenlee: Remember when I asked you before about not remembering me or remembering us? (She asks him again a knowing smirk playing on her lips that he knew so well)

Ryan: Yeah? (He leans back on his heels tilting his chin up and smiling)

Greenlee: When Leo found me he’d suffered some brain damage from the fall. Out of all the memories he lost he held on to mine. (Her face lit up with pride and happiness she looks at Ryan her expression wistful pleased and content)  When he opened that car door for me I could see it in his face it was completely lit up and he just looked at me and said  “Wow! You are real I thought you just haunted my dreams!” he put his arms around me. He said my name and it all came back to him. Even before he saw me he remembered our life together I was always there he never forgot me! It was magical Ryan! I felt like I was home and safe for the first time in a long time. That’s when I knew I would never go back to Pine Valley. I was going to call I really was I swear. By the time I did get well and I spoke to my father he told me you were on a tirade hell bent on destroying Zach and Kendall to the point of destroying your own life! I wasn’t going to let you destroy him too. I couldn’t I had to protect him from you from everyone. You would have never understood you would have wanted to punish us and I couldn’t let that happen. I thought everyone already thinks I’m dead what difference did it make the damage was already done. I had to protect my family. (He listens to her story shaking his head in disbelief)

Ryan: Protect your family? (He huffs) What about me Greenlee? What about the fact you knew what I was going through? You never gave a second thought about my pain? Did you. (His anger coming back in full force. She glares at him her eyes dancing with rage)

Greenlee: So you think it would have been better if I had walked in told you I was in love with another man, a man, which I always had been and always would be in love with. (She scoffs) Are you saying that some how under all that pain, under all that desire to want me back with you I could have some how made you understand that I had everything! Everything that I ever wanted! Everything I had ever hoped and dreamed for Ryan but it wasn’t with you? (He stare at him arms folded across her chest her brow raised)

Ryan: You never gave me the chance! (She throws her hands in the air shaking her head her chuckle bitter)

Greenlee: You’re saying you would have let me just walk away? The way you were then you wouldn’t have let me go that easily. You would never have let me just walk out of your life and let me be with Leo.

Ryan: I would have understood! (He pleads)

Greenlee: Come on we both know that would never have happened! You would have tried to destroy us just like you tried to destroy Zach and Kendal, Aidan, Anne, even Liza. I’ll admit it I took the cowards’ way out (She shrugs) but can you blame me?  I didn’t want to hurt you any more than you were already hurting but you would have forced me too. It would have been bitter and ugly and in the end we would end up hating each other and that’s not how I wanted us to end.

Ryan: So you think this was better? (His voce sounding strained)

Greenlee: This, right now (She shakes her head) no it would have been fine if you’d never found out.

Ryan: How can you say that? (He huffs)

Greenlee: Lets face it Ryan you and I, (She says firmly sounding resolute) we started as a business arrangement neither one of us loved each other the way I love Leo or you loved Gillian we learned to love each other. (She pleads) I’m not saying I regret anything that happened between us I did love you but you shouldn’t have to learn to love someone. Now that I’ve found Leo again I realized eventually it would never have been enough and we would have spent our lives convincing ourselves it was.

Ryan: How could you say that? You and I grew to be so much more than some business. (He places his hands on her shoulders starring into her eyes seeing nothing of the love that used to shine there his heart sinking as the last vestige of his defense falls apart)  

Greenlee: You know in your heart I’m right your pride won’t let you say it and you know if I had come to you then and said these things to you, your pride would have never accepted it. You and I both know that. Look at everything that happened after that night and be honest with your self please. (Ryan hears the pleading in her voice then thinks about everything he’d done after she’d “died” she was right he would have never just let her walk away he would have tried to destroy them he realized that now)

Ryan: I’m really sorry, for everything really I am… I was just so lost for so long with out you. I just…(His voice faded off he swallows hard and then smiles his excuse sounding weak to his own ear even before he said it. She didn’t owe him any apology. If he’d been her place and it was Gillian he’d done the same thing if not more) I’m glad you and Leo found each other and you’re happy.

Greenlee: You don’t have to be sorry if anyone should apologize it should be me. I’m sorry if what I did hurt you. I really am. (Her earnest expression leaving him no option but to accept what she was saying)

Ryan: It’s okay I understand… honestly I do. (He says as they begin to walk again stopping to pick up a few pebbles and throwing them into the rushing water)

Greenlee: I hope you and I can some day be friends. (She says coming beside him as the two begin their walk back to his car) 

Ryan: I’d like that someday. Maybe next time I come I can see Leo maybe catch up?

Greenlee: That would be nice we could have lunch at the Inn. I’d introduce you but Leo took Simone for her check up this morning. (She smiles proudly)

Ryan: Who’s Simone? (He stops his pace a moment looking down at her reaching in to he pocket and pulling out a small photo and handing it to him)

Greenlee: She’s our daughter our little miracle!

Ryan: Oh my God Greenlee! (He smiles up at her his eyes wide with surprise) Wow! Congratulations! (He glances at it again then hands it back to her)

Greenlee: Thank you. (She glances at the photo smiling lovingly then places it back in her pocket) You should see her! Leo says she looks like me but I don’t know.

Ryan: She’s beautiful.

Greenlee: She’s the most beautiful little girl in the world. (She says firmly leaving no room for doubt)

Ryan: You named her Simone, after Simone Torres. (She nods her head smiling proudly) And you thought it might be better if they weren’t around just in case right? (He slows his pace as the two arrive back at his car)

Greenlee: Something like that. (She turns her head letting the breeze pull the hair away from her face)

Ryan: How old is she? (He reaches in to the car pulling his sunglasses from the seat then opens the door)

Greenlee: She’ll be two next spring we’re going to have a big party for her but we were re decorating the dinning room (She point to a large Victorian looking building hidden behind large trees and blooming flower beds) we just bought the Inn over there at the end of the square.

Ryan: It’s beautiful.

Greenlee: I love it! (She turns back towards looking happier than he’d ever seen her and proud)

Ryan: I’m glad you’re happy. (He says opening the car door and sliding into the seat)

Greenlee: Thank you. I hope someday you’ll be just as happy as I am. (She closes the car door then leans on it edge)

Ryan: I’d better get back to Pine Valley I have a meeting with Devereaux this afternoon. (He starts the engine)

Greenlee: I read you were back at Cambius.

Ryan: Yeah, where else? (He grins placing the sunglasses on his face then adjusting them)

Greenlee: If you don’t mind a little advice. (Her tone serious)

Ryan: It never stopped you before. (He smiles u her making her laugh)

Greenlee: Be careful Ryan that guy Devereaux is a predator.

Ryan: Still looking out for me. (He shift the car in gear as Greenlee takes a step back) 

Greenlee: Always. (She smiles back at him feeling the weight finally lifted)

Ryan: You take care of yourself.

Greenlee: I will. Oh and Ryan I got you something. Leo made it. (She says pointing to the small box on the seat next to him)

Ryan: Thanks (He looks down at the small prettily wrapped box on the seat next to him then smiles up at her feeling a tinge of sadness about what never was) Bye Greenlee. (He smiles sadly then shifts the car into gear pulling away from the curb, Greenlee stares after him till his cars disappears around the bend)

Greenlee: Bye Ryan. (She sighs then turns and walks towards the Inn lifting her head and smiling broadly at the sound of her name. She waves as she half runs towards her husband and child)

Jack and Tea 08/29/2013

Tea stands at the back of the large gymnasium lined with tables marked by subject watching all the new enrollee’s rush from one to the other as they sign up for classes. She glances over at her daughter who stands at yet another table completing her enrollment into the University.

Jack: Fancy meeting you here! (He strolls up behind bending down and whispering in her ear before coming around to stand beside her)

Tea: Hey! (Her head snaps around and smiles pleasantly) Morning boss! I could say the same for you!

Jack: I’m here with my niece Molly she’s staying with me this summer until the fall semester starts. (He looks across the gym finding her standing in line moving one step closer to the table)

Tea: That’s wonderful!

Jack: Danni all squared away? (Tea nods her head towards the table behind her and rolls her eyes)

Tea: I think she has one more class to sign up for, how about you?

Jack: I believe we’re almost done she’s third in that line over there. (He nods his head toward the line adjacent to the one Dani was in)

Tea: Very pretty girl, I think you’re going to have your work cut out for you there. (She teases making them both laugh)

Jack: I’m not sure if I should thank you or take cover. It’s been a while since I’ve had a teenager in the house. (He shakes his head and pulls at his collar)

Tea: You’ll be fine just keep you eyes and year open. (She assures him with a wink and a nod turning he attention towards Dani as she calls and walks towards them)

Danni: Hey mom, I got my ID! (She leans in showing it to her making them both giggle) Hi Mr. Montgomery.

Jack: Hi Danni. (He smiles down at her enjoying her enthusiasm as Molly walks up beside her tucking her ID in her purse then smiles up at him)

Molly: I’m all set Uncle Jack.

Jack: Molly I’d like you to meet a friend of mine this is Tea Delgado and her daughter Danni.

Molly: Hi, nice to meet you both. (She smiles pleasantly back at them reminding Tea of one of those perky High School Cheerleaders)

Jack: Tea I was going to call you when we got back to the office, if you have a moment I need to give you a couple of brief notes on the Franklin file.

Tea: Sure excuse us a moment ladies.

Danni: So are you from Pine Valley?

Molly: No, Washington State I’m staying with my uncle until the fall semester starts. I figured I might as well get here early get it over with (She says with a roll of her eyes then giggles) what about you?

Danni: Same, well not exactly I took a couple of classes this summer to get a jump ahead for the fall we just moved here a few weeks ago from Llanview.

Molly: Do you miss it? God, I miss West Port! I miss hanging with my friends, the beach, God, real fresh seafood, the smell of the ocean I even miss the rain!

Danni: Well Llanview is just a few towns over so I do get to see some of my friends. Hey maybe you can come with me sometime.

Molly: Are you kidding? I would love to get out of Pleasantville for a couple of hours!

Dani: Oh my God! That movie must have been on like a hundred times this summer! (They both laugh)

Molly: I was so bored I must have watched every time!

Dani: You too, you’d love Llanview there is definitely a lot more to do!

Molly: Yeah my uncle keeps saying it gets better once the fall semester starts.

Danni: Yeah, my Mom keeps saying the same thing must be a part of the parental figure mantra. (They both nod in agreement) This town does have some of the best little boutiques!

Molly: Speaking of shopping I adore your shoes!

Danni: Thanks. I love your dress the colors are gorgeous!

Molly: Thanks, I got it at that little shop over on first street “Dazzle”

Danni: Me too! I love that place.

Molly: We should so go together sometime!

Danni: What are you doing tomorrow?

Molly: Sitting around my Uncles house watching the weeds grow bored out of my skull!

Dannie: Here let me give you my digits (She grabs her phone pressing her number into the pad quickly)  and maybe we can hook up and go shopping maybe have lunch or something?

Molly: That would be perfect! Here, (she says grabbing Danni’s phone and quickly pressing the keys) I’ll call you later! I’m dying to pick up this blouse I saw the other day.

Danni: The one with the ribbon woven through the neckline?

Molly: Oh my God isn’t it gorgeous! That’s it you and I are going to make a day of it!

Danni: Cool! (She nods in agreement feeling happier then she had in weeks finally! She had something to look forward too)

Jack: Shall we get going? (He looks from one to the other both looking a lot happier then they had before he’d walked away)

Molly: Sure, nice meeting you Ms. Delgado, Danni I’ll call you!

Danni: Great! (She waves as Jack and Molly walk to the exist then turns back toward Tea)

Tea: She seems nice. (Noticing her daughter more cheerful demeanor)

Danni: Yeah, very cool. We’re going to meet up tomorrow do some shopping I’ll see how it goes (She nods in agreement)

Tea: If nothing else it will get you out of the house for a little while maybe meet some more people your own age.

Danni: Yeah should be fun, okay so I’m going to get on line and get my final print out for my classes. (She turns looking up at the ticker above the table then down at her form)

Tea: I’m going to stand right here and say final goodbyes to my hard earned money. (She chuckles patting her purse Dani rolls her eyes making Tea laugh)

Danni: I’ll be right back! (Tea watches as Danni walks to the line swinging her purse back and forth as she waits. Tea smiles as a very handsome young man comes and stands in the line behind her just as Danni’s phone comes out of the slot on her purse and falls on the floor in front of him. The young man bends over and picks it up then taps her shoulder. Danni turns and stares up at him a dumb grin plastered on her face, He stares down at her an even dumber one on his and silently hands her the phone. Danni reaches for it and their hands bush and both snap their hands back as if shocked by electricity Danni mummers something inaudible to Tea from where she’s standing then turns quickly forward her face crimson all the way to her ears. Tea smiles a mother’s knowing smile. What she’d just witnessed wa a moment of attraction and hopefully the budding of a romance if she had anything to do with it. Good, she thought maybe it was the perfect thing to pull her out of the depression she’d been in since the death of her father and the lonesomeness she’d felt in her since her break up. It was good to see her getting back to being more herself and back out among her peers so far this move seemed good for both of them)

 

Chuck: Good Morning Ms. Delgado.

Tea: Dr. Tyler nice to see you again.

Chuck: Enriching your education?

Tea: No, no you couldn’t pay me to go through that again! No. I’m the one with the checkbook my daughter is registering for classes how about you?

 Chuck: I’m enrolling y grandson he’s following in the family footsteps. (He smiles proudly rocking back on his heels)

Tea: That’s wonderful!

Danni: Mom! Check it I actually got every class I wanted in the order I wanted them! (Shoving the paper toward Tea looking almost giddy)

Tea: That’s great! Honey this is Dr. Charles Tyler.

Danni: Nice to meet you, (She takes his hand and shakes it) wait Dr. Charles Tyler like in Dean Charles Tyler? (Her voice fading to a whisper her eyes opening bright)

Chuck: One in the same. (Her cheeks blush prettily as Phillip walks up and joins them)

Phillip: Hey Gramps! I got every class I wanted except for one it was full but I was able to find a good substitute. (He points at the paper then folds in and places it in his pocket)

Chuck: Great I’m glad. Phillip I’d like you to meet Ms. Tea Delgado.

Phillip: Nice to meet you ma’am. (He turns toward her looking and sounding more charming than she’d imagined with his slight Irish brogue)

Tea: Please, Tea is fine.

Chuck: And her lovely daughter Danni.

Phillip: Hey (He says slowly mesmerized by the biggest brownest eyes he’d ever seen. A shiver of excitement slides down his spine making him feel cold and hot at the same time)

Dani: Hey (she sighs back transfixed by eyes the color of froth on a stormy green sea twinkling down at her)

Chuck: Danni’s a new student here too maybe you could show her around help her get comfortable? (The connection between the two not lost on him)

Phillip: Sure I’d love to.

Danni: You sure, I mean I don’t want to keep you if you had something else to do? (Feeling suddenly shy at thought of spending time alone with him and excited by it at the same time)

Phillip: Actually I had nothing, come on I’ll give you the VIP tour and when we’re done I’ll show you where to get the best coffee in Pine Valley.

Danni: That would be great thanks. So Mom ( She turns towards Tea her back to both Chuck and Philip) I’ll see you back home? (She looks at her mother pursing her lips and quickly jerking her head towards the door then widens her eyes. Her mother grins recognizing her daughters signal to beat it and looks at her watch)

Tea: If I leave right now I should be able to get to the Bursars Office and pick up Victor. See you at home Mia amore.

Danni: Bye.

Phillip: Nice meeting you.

Tea: Nice meeting you too and good seeing you again Chuck.

Chuck: The pleasure was all mine (He smiles watching a moment as Tea turns and walks to the exist) I should get going too I have some work in my office.

Danni: Bye, nice meeting you Dean Tyler.

Chuck: Pleasure meeting you too, (He smiles back at her she seemed nice level headed something Phillip could use) Phillip I’ll see you at dinner later, and you’re more than welcome to bring a guest.

Phillip: See ya Gramps.

Chuck: Have fun you two. (He winks then walks towards the exist leaving the two alone and hopefully in good hands)

Danni: Your Grandfather seems nice.

Phillip: He’s great and wait till you meet my Grandma Donna. (Walking slowly towards the exist as they chat)

Danni: So you’re inviting me to dinner?

Phillip: Sure I told you, you’re getting the VIP tour. Shell we go?

Danni: I’m following you. Do you live in Pine Valley?

Phillip: No I’m just staying with my Great Grandparents until school starts. (He reaches for the door holding it as she passes through) I’m helping with my little cousins till my Uncle gets out of the hospital and the fall semester starts.

Danni: How old are your little cousins?

Phillip: Kathy is nine and Jenny is five.

Danni: What happened to their Dad.

Phillip: He was in a really bad car accident.

Danni: Oh I’m sorry. He’s going to be okay right?

Phillip: Yeah, yeah he’ll be fine.

Dani: So I take it you’re from Ireland?

Philip: no not all because of my father’s job we lived there from the time I was eleven till last year when we moved back here. Funny when I’m there they say I sound like an American. (They both laugh) What about you are you a Pine Valleyite? (He says pointing to the path on the right as they walk)

Danni: No we just moved here a few weeks back for my Mom’s job.

Phillip: So your parents made you a gypsy too. What does she do?

Danni: She’s the Assistant district attorney.

Phillip: Wow! Guess I’d better stay on the straight and narrow path then?

Dani: You’d better she’s pretty tough. She doesn’t just throw the book she throws the entire bookshelf! (They both laugh again)

Philip: So how do you like Pine Valley?

Danni: Nice kind of quiet.

Phillip: Don’t let it fool you there’s always something about to hit the fan in Pine Valley you’ll see. This is the English Department lets have a look around see if any dead poets are haunting the halls after you (He says holding the door allowing her to slide through both feeling that odd rush of excitement by the momentary closeness. Dani smiles to herself maybe moving here wasn’t going to be way better than she thought)

Adam and Lola 08/28/2013

Adam and Lola   

 

Adam traverses the crowded hospital lobby on his way to the hospital board meeting. He presses the button for the elevator glances up at the monitor above the car then checks his watch and sighs. He taps it again when it doesn’t immediately arrive then looks up at the monitor again he was going to be late! He punches the button again then turns swiftly at the sound of the voice behind him.

 

Lola: You know pounding on the button doesn’t make it come any faster.

Adam: Sorry I’m just a little impatient I’m late for a meeting (He grins sheepishly)

Lola: I think that meeting has been canceled it was in with my morning memos. (She sorts through the papers in her hand)

Adam: Impossible I would have gotten a message! (He scowls as he reaches in his pocket and pulls out his phone then scrolls through the messages his eyes opening wide then laugh his cheeks flushing with embarrassment) You’re right.

Lola: Well it looks like I have a free couple of hours. (She smiles up at him)

Adam: That’s a rarity. (He smiles back feeling that odd tremor of attraction he’d felt the other day when they’d met)

Lola: So what are you going to do? (Feeling the thrill she’d felt upon seeing him intensify)

Adam: I ran out the house thinking I’d be late I never stopped for breakfast so was thinking I’d have brunch perhaps you’d care to join me?

Lola: Thank you, but really I shouldn’t. (She blushes feeling suddenly shy and slightly vulnerable)

Adam: Come on you have to eat and the Pine Valley Inn serves the best brunch in town. Please? (He wriggles his brow smiling impishly breaking through her last defense)

Lola: That sounds lovely.

Adam gently grasps Lola’s elbow and leads her towards the entrance as David watches from the mezzanine above smiling to his self as the walk through the exist this was getting more interesting by the day and more importantly how could he use it he ponders as he walks down the hall towards his office.

 

Scene Shift: Adam and Lola sit at a table in the center of the dinning hall sipping their coffee and waiting for their meal chatting.

Adam: So how do you like your new home?

Lola: I love it! It feels good to finally be putting down roots.

Adam: It’s a lovely house I’m sure you’ll be very happy.

Lola: I can’t wait till next spring to plant my tulips.

Adam: Do you like to garden?

Lola: Yes, I find it therapeutic.

Adam: So what else do you like to do?

Lola: I love riding my bicycle all over town although everyone else thinks I’m crazy but it really is the best way to see it.

Adam: What do you do in the winter?

Lola: If the weather isn’t bad I walk otherwise I drive. You should come walk with me sometime.

Adam: Oh, I haven’t walked anywhere in years.

Lola: I’m serious you should come with me. I can wait till fall when the leaves start changing it must be so beautiful.

Adam: It can hardly compare with the beauty right in front of me.

Lola: Thank you. So what do you do when you’re no corporate raiding and counting your millions?

Adam: On those rare occasions I have some down time I go horseback riding, golf sometimes play a little tennis.

Lola: Oh it’s been years since I’ve played tennis. (She smiles wistfully thinking back to her college years so long ago as Adam enjoys the notable headway he was making)

Adam: Then we should make a day of it. What do you say day after tomorrow we’ll play a couple of games.

Lola: That’s sounds like fun. (She grins her eyes twinkling with merriment)

Adam: Good! I’ll send a note and have cook make us lunch.

Lola: I’d like that very much.

Adam: I’ll send the car around to pick up.

Lola: You don’t have to do that.

Adam: I insist knowing you, you’ll ride your bike over and be too tired to play. (He teases enjoying the blush stain her cheeks)

Scene Shift: At the same moment Liza and Wellington sit at a table a few down from where Adam and Lola sit thoroughly enjoying their brunch laughing and chatting as they dine. Liza smiles up at Wellington as she nibbles on the few remaining morsels of fruit from her dish.

Wellington: Are you going to finish that?

Liza: I think I already did.

Wellington: Do you want that piece of cantaloupe?

Liza: Here (She says spooning it in to his mouth then giggles)

Wellington: Ahh I just wanted to know where your heart was.

Liza: You have it.

Wellington: And you, mine (He smiles leaning in and kissing her)

Liza: So are we still going to the University dinner at the Tyler’s tonight?

Wellington: I’d much rather stay home with you curled up the couch and making whoopee. (He wriggles his eyebrows laugh’s)

Liza: You know you really need to lay off the Dean Martin movies.

Wellington: You love it!

Liza: Yes I do. (She leans in giving him a peck on the lips then smiles she reaches for her cup bringing it her lips then realizes it’s empty) Do you want more coffee?

Wellington: I would love some. (He nods placing a fork full of eggs in his mouth as Liza leans to the side of her chair and looks around for the waitress spotting her instantly and getting her attention)

Liza: Could he have more coffee please? (The waitress nods then walks toward the coffee station to fetch the pot. Liza watches her walk away for a moment glancing around the restaurant and spots Adam and Lola her temper begins to flare. Just as the waitress returns and blocks her view of them as she fills their cups) Thank you she mutters. Wow someone is moving awfully fast.

Wellington: Who?

Liza: Your ex over there having lunch with none other than the richest man in town.

Wellington: Lola has never been one to let the grass grow under her feet.

Liza: Did you know she bought a house?

Wellington: So she’s staying that’s just great. (Huff his brow furrowed as he throws his napkin on the table) What the hell is she up to now?

Liza: Maybe it’s like she said she just wants to start her life over.

Wellington: She could start her life any place else in America! Why here, why now?

Liza: Well her family is here and from what you’ve told me she hasn’t it had it easy.

Wellington: My life hasn’t been a picnic. Lola’s problems are of her own making. Come on let’s get out of here I’ve lost my appetite. (He rises from the table pushing the chair under the table then holding Liza’s chair as she rises. The two make a hasty dash toward the exist only to e halted by Adam’s booming greeting)

Adam: Liza, Wellington nice to see you both.

Wellington: Adam always a pleasure.

Liza: Adam.

Adam: I believe you’re both acquainted with Dr. Lola Colgate?

Liza: Yes pleasure to see you again.

Lola: Nice seeing you.

Wellington: Was there something we could help you with?

Adam: Yes, I’ve purchased a piece of property and I nee to know the legalities of plans to convert the building in to Condominiums.

Wellington: Give our assistant a call and have set up an appointment and we’ll see what we can do to help.

Adam: That would be great I’ll call as soon as I get back to the office.

Liza: We’d better get going. Enjoy your brunch, Lola. (Adam watched the entire exchange with the scrutiny of a miser. There was an odd under current between the three of them that was almost palatable. Perhaps it would behoove him to have one of his investigators look in to Dr. Colgate before this thing between them went any further. Besides as the saying goes “one burned twice cautious? How ever the saying went he had no intention of getting burned

Jesse and Griff 08/27/2013

Jesse and Griff

 

Griff at the police station feeling more leery if at all possible than he was on the ride over here. He hesitates a moment before pulling open the door. He’d told Ryan and come this far there was no turning back now. He walks to the front desk swallowing back the hard lump that had formed in his throat.

 

Griff: May I speak with Chief Hubbard please? It’s important

Desk Sergeant: I’ll see if he’s in who should I say is asking?

Griff: Tell him it’s Griff he’ll know what it’s about. (The sergeant picks up the phone and dials Jesse’s extension)

Desk Sergeant: Hey Chief I have a Griff here to see you he says it’s important.

Jesse: I’ll be right there!

Desk Sergeant: The chief will be right out. You can have a seat over there.

Griff: Thank you. (Griff sits down on the bench closest to the sergeants desk to wait. He looks around the room at the sundry of men and women around him. Some sitting quietly some ranting and belligerent waiting to find out what their future held all desperately trying to mask their fear. The station hadn’t changed since he had been one of those across from him awaiting their fate. In all honesty he wasn’t that much different from them he was awaiting his fate just a different kind)

Jesse: Griff! Hey man!

Griff: Hey Jesse. 

 Jesse: Come on back, (He says leading him toward the door. He slides his badge through the slot and opens it then holds so that Griff can pass) my office is this way. Not working today?

Griff: It’s my day off. I thought I would take care of some stuff.

Jesse: Come in have a seat.

Griff: Thanks.

Jesse: So what’s going on?

Griff: Nothing I just thought I’d come around and we could talk some more.

Jesse: So, I guess you thought about what we talked about yesterday?

Griff: That’s all I’ve thought about.

Jesse: So what did you decided

Griff: I’m going to tell her.

Jesse: Oh, thank God. You have no idea how much this is going to mean to Randi and I promise you, you’re not going to regret it.

Griff: From your lips to Gods ears.

Jesse: I promise you Randi will understand she needs all her family and that includes you. It’s going to be all right. 

Griff: I was going to go over first thing this morning but then I remembered you asked me to talk to you first before I did anything.

Jesse: I appreciate that. If you don’t mind maybe you and I could go over to the hospital together.

Griff: Would you mind?

Jesse: Of course not let me grab a jacket and we’ll walk over together.

Griff: You know you tell me a lot about Randi but you haven’t said very much about your son.

Jesse: You let me worry about Frankie.

Griff: Do you think I have something to worry about, with Frankie I mean?

Jesse: No, I don’t think so just be prepared for a lot of questions. You ready?

Griff: Ready as I’ll ever be.

Angie walks in the room carrying a hatbox and ginning from ear to ear as she walks toward Randi)

Angie: Hi honey how are you feeling?

Randi: I’m feeling great! Did Frankie tell you?

Angie: I haven’t seen Frankie today I was just stopping by for a little while till my sift starts.

Randi: Dr. Colgate told us this morning I’m responding well to the chemo and I can go home tomorrow!

Angie: Oh honey that’s great! I’m so happy for you!

Randi: I can wait! I missed being home and being with my babies and husband!

Angie: I know you do honey I so glad! Of course you not going to dive right in you’re going to take it easy right?

Randi: Doctors orders. So ahh what’s in the box?

Angie: This is for you!

Randi: What is it?

Angie: I know you have said anything but I could tell your hair coming out was bothering you so I got you a wig.

Randi: Oh Angie it’s gorgeous! Thank you!

Angie: I had it styled and colored just like your real hair. Try it on.

Randi: Oh Angie it’s perfect! Thank you!

Angie: I took the picture from the Labor Day. Try it on I’ll get the mirror from the bathroom. (She rises from the edge of the bed leans through the bathroom door and grabs the hand mirror from the shelf then sits back down on the bed beside her. Randi hesitates holding the skullcap in her hand before sliding open the wrapping gingerly. She hand the empty packaging to Angie who tosses it in to the trashcan in front of her. Randi removes her scarf then wraps her thinning hair around her head then slips the cap over it before slipping on the wig. She shakes the hair back from her face giggling like an excited child allowed to play dress up at her mothers vanity) So what do you think? (She holds ups the mirror arranging the tendrils with her finger)

Randi: It’s perfect Angie (She leans in hugging her close) Thank you.

Angie: I bought a Brush for you let me get it out of my purse. It’s not in here! I must have let the bag in my office. I’ll be right back.

Scene Shift: Jesse and Griff stepping off the elevator and into the hall each lost in their own private thoughts as they turn and walk toward Randi’s room. Frankie looks up from the computer station in the hall and smiles at his father and Griff his expression slowly changing to concern as he looks at their expressions.

 

Frankie: What’s up Dad? Hey Griff.

Griff: Hey Frankie how you doing?

Frankie: I’m okay what’s up?

Jesse: Can we talk to you a minute?

Frankie: Sure why don’t we go in the lounge I don’t think anyone’s in there. (He points the way to the empty room leading them all to the empty chair in the far corner) What’s up Dad?

Jesse: Remember that question you asked me?

Frankie: Yeah…(He draws out looking from Jesses to Griff his eyebright with recognition) you mean Griff is. (His voice trails off again) You’re sure?

Griff: Positive I know my daughter she looks just like her mother.

Frankie: Wow. You were right here all this time? Why didn’t you just tell us?

Griff: I didn’t want to intrude on her life. Then when I heard there was a blood shortage I couldn’t just stand around and do nothing and I didn’t want to do anything that might upset or hurt her. So I tried to donate without anyone knowing. I was going to go to Center City Hospital but I wasn’t sure she’d get it first so I came here.

Frankie: I still can’t believe this. What happened to you where have you been Randi’s entire life?

Jesse: Griff has been in prison and I’m still trying to figure out what happened to Randi and her mother after he did.

Frankie: My god Randi is going to freak.

Griff: Is that good or bad? I don’t want to make matters worse or put ant pressure on her. I’ve been clean since I got out I go to work everyday and the only person I see from prison is Ryan.

Frankie: It’s okay I know what you’ve been up to, (He smiles and laugh’s)  I see you practically everyday. You’re a good man anyone can see that I promise you Randi will freak out but in a good way. You’ll see. Carmen’s been singing your praises for months. (He stops a moment and looks at Griff his eyes bright with questioning) Does Carmen know?

Jesse: At this moment the three of us are the only ones that know.

Griff: No, I told Ryan so that’s four

Angie: Make that the five!

Jesse: Angie what are you doing here?

Angie: I was on my way to my office when I saw the three of you. I was going to srop and say “Hi” and then I heard. So it’s true you’re Randi’s father?

Griff: Yes.

Angie: Jesse? Why didn’t you tell me?

Frankie: Don’t blame him Mom I promised Dad not to tell anyone not even you.

Angie: I don’t understand why all the secrecy?

Frankie: Because I didn’t know who or what kind of person we would find and right now I needed to protect my wife. I’m sorry if I we hurt you but what Dad did that’s all on me. So if you’re angry be angry with me not Dad.

Angie: Okay, I understand what I want to know is what you all plan to do now? What are you going to tell her?

Griff: I’m going to go in and tell Randi the truth.

Frankie: I think I should be there when you talk to her.

Griff: I can tell you love her with all your heart and I appreciate you trying to protect her but what I have to say is between my daughter and me.

Frankie: Now hold on I…

Jesse: Frankie, let the man talk to his daughter. Trust me son, you and I both know Randi can handle her business.

Griff: I promise I’m not going to hurt her you have my word.

Angie: Listen Frankie I know you want to protect your family, I’ve gotten to know Griff in the past few months and He’s a good man and a good person let him do this his way. I promise you honey it will be okay.

Frankie: No, supposed it’s not all honey and roses I’m going to be there. Now shall we go? (He moves toward the exist nodding his head toward the hall. Griff rises from the chair and walks toward the exist his expression showing his frustration as well as his agitation he’d wanted this moment to be between him and his daughter but smiles inwardly happy that his son in-law loved his daughter so deeply)