by
D. M. Bocaz-Larson
Copyright 1992
All Rights Reserved*
Before performing this script, you must first request permission at pocolocoplayers@yahoo.com or http://www.oocities.org/pocolocoplayers/request.html
The script may be printed and copied for free. If you decide to perform the play and charge admission, the requirements are below: 1. All programs, posters, etc. should have the author's name (D. M. Bocaz-Larson) and something that tells about the Freedrama.com website such as "Produced by special arrangement with www.freedrama.com". When you complete the production, mail a copy of the program to the royalty address listed below. 2. There is a $20 royalty for using the play for up to two performances. If you perform the play three or more times, the royalty is just $10 per performance. The royalty payment must be sent via http://www.paypal.com. Or you may send a check to: D. M. Bocaz-Larson, 1721 Encino Ave., Grants, NM 87020. Please no purchase orders. NOTE: The play may not be reproduced or published in any form without written permission from the author. Thank you for selecting my script. I hope you enjoy it. Sincerely, D. M. Bocaz-Larson
Cast of Characters
(in order of appearance)
Thomas Hall: A pastor of an independent
church who took the position
reluctantly a few years ago.
Despair and futility are more
familiar to him than faith and
hope.
His lifestyle reflects this.
He is a nice looking man in his
thirties and is kind despite his
faults.
Janice Walters: She's a loyal church-goer who wants
to see things run like they were
under the old pastor. She's in her
60's.
Candy Leeds: Is in a relationship with Thomas at
the open of the play. She is far
from innocent and shows it. She is
the same age as Thomas.
Sandy Miller: A little girl of ten who often goes
to Thomas for support.
Johnny James: A friend of Thomas who is easy
going and could care less about
responsibility. He dresses like
the repair man that he is. He is
also Thomas' age.
Gabi Roberts: A
kind and somewhat naive woman who
appears at Thomas
door
in need. She has a tendency to
talk a lot when she is nervous.
She's in her late twenties.
Betty James: Johnny's wife who wears the pants
of the family. She is in her
thirties.
Time and Place
Late Spring, 1991.
ACT I Scene 1
(The entire play takes place in the living
quarters of a church.
There is a small kitchen
area with a stove, cupboards, counter, and
refrigerator UL. All
of these things can be
implied. The door to
outside is L. LC is a set
of table and three chairs.
Starting R, there are
stairs that lead up to a small landing and a door
where the bedroom is.
DL is a small living room
with a sofa. There
is a door behind it to the
bathroom. Another
door, ULC, leads to a chapel)
(Late morning.
Lights come up on THOMAS in a
casual suit standing DR looking out a window. His
arms are crossed and he has a drink in one hand.
He's lost in thoughts of days lost and an
uncertain future.
WALTERS, an old widow, who is a
loyal church goers enters
the chapel)
WALTERS
Pastor Thomas?
THOMAS
(Turns, not trying to hide his drink)
Yes, Mrs. Walters?
WALTERS
I was wondering why the
service was cut short today?
THOMAS
It's hot out and we don't
have air conditioning. I thought people
might like getting out before they died of heat stroke.
WALTERS
You should have called me
before the service. I could have brought
over some fans.
THOMAS
I didn't want to bother
you.
WALTERS
It's no bother, Pastor
Thomas. I like to help out whenever I
can.
THOMAS
I'll be sure to call next
time.
(Pause)
Is there anything else?
WALTERS
I was hoping I could
receive communion.
THOMAS
You know I don't like to
do communion any more, Mrs. Walters.
WALTERS
You really should. Pastor Mike did communion every Sunday. It was real important to him and very special
to the congregation.
THOMAS
I know how important it
was to Pastor Mike but it doesn't feel right for me somehow.
WALTERS
I don't see why not?
THOMAS
Could we please not argue
about this?
WALTERS
I will until you give me
my communion.
THOMAS
(Giving in)
All right, Mrs.
Walters. You win. I'll give it to right here, right now, in
God's dining-room.
WALTERS
Thank you.
THOMAS
(Goes to kitchen)
You prefer red or white
wine?
WALTERS
Don't you have any grape
juice?
THOMAS
Sorry. Fresh out.
It's wine or nothing. If it's good
enough for Jesus, then it's good enough for me.
WALTERS
I'll only take a little
sip then.
(THOMAS pours her a glass of wine. She take a
kitchen chair and places it center. He gives her
the wine)
What will you use for
bread?
(Returns to kitchen)
THOMAS
(As he searches)
I don't think I have any
bread left. I haven't been to the store
in awhile. But I think I have some
saltine crackers.
WALTERS
They make me thirsty.
THOMAS
Then I'll pour you some
more wine.
WALTERS
(Sighs again and kneels at chair)
Never mind. Bring them here.
(THOMAS gives her a cracker)
Well?
THOMAS
What?
WALTERS
Aren't you going to say
something?
THOMAS
Sure. Eat, drink, and be merry.
WALTERS
I was hoping for something
a little more religious, like a passage from the last supper.
THOMAS
(Frustrated)
All right.
(He says the following with difficulty)
"Eat and drink in
remembrance of me."
(She eats and drinks)
Don't drink too much now. I might think you like it.
WALTERS
(Sets glass on table and gets up)
Thank you. I'll see you next Sunday.
THOMAS
Mrs. Walters? Why do you come to my church? You never seem happy with anything I do.
WALTERS
I've come to this church
ever since I was a child. I was baptized
at this church's altar and married here when I was seventeen. My husband's funeral was here and this is
where I intend to have my own.
(Shrugs)
And besides, this is the
only church within walking distance of my house and I haven't got a car.
THOMAS
(Laughs)
Mrs. Walters. If you were a few years younger I think I'd
be in love.
WALTERS
If you were a few years
younger, I'd give you a good spanking.
(Starts for door)
THOMAS
Good-bye, Mrs. Walters.
WALTERS
(Stops)
I wanted to tell you that I enjoyed your sermon about the absentee landlord
today. What possessed you to use that
passage?
THOMAS
I just played Bible
roulette and there it was. I always do
that when I have trouble thinking up a new sermon.
WALTERS
Why don't you reuse old
sermons?
THOMAS
I hate it when pastors do
that. I think that's the reason why
people never make any progress in this world.
They're always preaching the same old sermon and doing the same old
things. We still have war and we still
have the poor.
Woman still aren't treated
equally and people are still starving.
As long as we have these things, I'll preach new sermons until I hit on
something that works. Then and only then
will I repeat myself. If they won't
listen the first time, then won't hear me the second.
WALTERS
Well, your heart's in the
right place.
(Turns to go)
THOMAS
Can I offer you a cup of
coffee before you go?
WALTERS
No, thank you,
Thomas. Good-bye.
(She exits through chapel door and this time a
child playing "chopsticks" is heard while the
door
is open. THOMAS goes
to his Bible and flips it
open. Takes a drink)
John 21:15. That'll do.
(Turns Bible face down and drinks some more.
CANDY appears at the top of the stairs in a silky
robe)
CANDY
Hello, Thomas.
THOMAS
Hi, Candy. How did you sleep?
CANDY
Heavenly.
THOMAS
I suppose one would in a
church.
CANDY
(Comes down)
What did old widow Walters
want?
THOMAS
Her communion.
CANDY
Why didn't you tell her
no?
THOMAS
I did, but she's so
stubborn.
(Drinks)
Besides, it's the least I
can do.
CANDY
A little early for a
drink, isn't it?
(Gets coffee from the coffee maker)
THOMAS
It's left over from
communion.
CANDY
You can pour it back in
the bottle.
THOMAS
It seems a pity to do so.
CANDY
How was your sermon?
THOMAS
It went okay? Mrs. Walters said it was too short.
CANDY
Short, but sweet I'm sure.
(Gives him a kiss)
THOMAS
It didn't go as well as I
would have like though. It isn't
clicking like it was.
(Sits at table)
CANDY
(Goes to him, rubs his shoulders)
You used to be so good up
there. It was like seeing a Broadway
play. You up there carrying on about
loving your neighbor and helping one another.
I used to sit there, close my eyes, and let myself become swept up in
your words.
(Kisses his cheek and sits in his lap)
And you used to always get
so worked up after those sermons...I thought I could never bring you back down
to Earth again.
THOMAS
(They get up)
Now you don't even come to
my services.
CANDY
(She follows)
But you told me you don't
like me to come.
(She strokes his chest)
You said I distract you.
THOMAS
I know. I'm sorry.
CANDY
Why don't you come
upstairs? Maybe we can get a little of
your creative energy flowing again.
(Kisses him)
Hmmm?
THOMAS
(Takes her hand and kisses it)
Okay. I'll be up in a minute.
CANDY
(Starts to go)
And bring the wine.
(Knock at chapel door)
Who's that now?
THOMAS
I don't know.
(Opens door to chapel.
Pleasantly)
Oh, hello, Sandy.
(SANDY, a girl of 8 comes in)
SANDY
Hi, Pastor Thomas.
(Sees CANDY)
Hi, Ms. Leeds.
THOMAS
What can I do for you?
SANDY
My mom is still talking to
all the people. She sure talks a long
time.
THOMAS
Adults are funny that way.
SANDY
Could you read me a story
again?
THOMAS
I don't know Sandy...
SANDY
(Pleads)
Please. Mommy has a big mouth.
(CANDY laughs)
THOMAS
Sandy! That isn't a nice thing to say.
SANDY
That's what Daddy always
says.
THOMAS
(Signs, but happy)
Okay, you win. What story do you want to hear?
SANDY
A Jesus story. I like how you read them.
CANDY
I leave you two alone
then. I'll be in the shower if you need
me.
(Says following for SANDY's
benefit)
My shower isn't working so
I came over to use Pastor Thomas'.
SANDY
(Casually skeptical)
Uh-huh.
(CANDY winks at THOMAS and goes to shower)
THOMAS
What story do we have for
you today?
(Gets Bible. They
sit at kitchen table)
Let's see.
SANDY
How about that one?
THOMAS
The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector.
(He looks it over and then begins)
Once there were two men
who went to church to pray. One was a
rich Pharisee and the other a tax collector.
The Pharisee went off to one side to speak privately with God and said,
"I thank you, God, that I am not greedy, dishonest, or an adulterer, like
everybody else." Spotting the tax
collector entering in the church, "And I thank you that I am not like that
miserable tax collector over there."
SANDY
Boy, he's not very nice is
he?
THOMAS
Nope.
SANDY
Pastor Thomas?
THOMAS
Yeah?
SANDY
(Points)
What's that word? Adul...adulter...
THOMAS
Well, it's hard to
explain. It's a kind of a bad person.
(Continues his story)
The tax collector entered
the church with his head down low unable to look up to heaven. He went to the altar and kneed. Tears came to his eyes as he said "God,
have pity on me, a sinner!" And
Jesus said, "The tax collector, not the Pharisee, was in the right with
God when he went home. For everyone who
humbles himself will be made great."
(CANDY appears again at the end)
SANDY
Thank you, Pastor
Thomas. I better go now.
(She hugs him)
THOMAS
(Smiles)
Okay, Sandy. See you next Sunday.
(SANDY exits to chapel)
CANDY
(Having been listening)
You're so good with
children.
THOMAS
(Gets up)
You weren't listening,
were you?
CANDY
Yes I was and I think you were
wonderful.
THOMAS
Hardly.
CANDY
You do wonders for the
children in this neighborhood. They
really look up to you. The children need
someone like you around here.
THOMAS
I'm no better than anyone
else around here.
CANDY
That's not true. You have a gift for helping people.
THOMAS
I feel pretty helpless
most of the time. I never feel like I'm
making any progress around here.
(Goes for more wine)
The people here are no
better off than when I become pastor.
Sometimes I wonder if I'm doing them more harm than good.
CANDY
Weren't you here a minute
ago? Didn't you see what you did for
that little girl?
THOMAS
What? Put her to sleep?
CANDY
Telling her stories means
a lot to her.
THOMAS
I think you're stretching
it a bit.
CANDY
I've seen Sandy with her
parents. They practically ignore
her. She might as well be
invisible. But you care. You stop everything for that little
girl. And that means a lot to her.
THOMAS
I doubt that I'm helping a
whole lot.
CANDY
What happened to you
Thomas? What happened to those dreams
you had of fighting the rich and healing the poor? Your dreams were so much a part of you. But now it seems like there's nothing.
THOMAS
I simply opened my eyes
and saw the world the way it really was...and didn't like what I saw.
CANDY
You were such a good
person. I mean you still are. But something happened.
THOMAS
The world happened and
it's not good. I finally realized that
there's nothing I can do to fix it.
CANDY
Why don't you just quit
being a pastor then?
THOMAS
It's not that easy.
CANDY
Why not?
THOMAS
When Pastor Mike died, he
left this church in my hands, not in anyone else's. He had such confidence in me. I can't let him down.
CANDY
I could.
THOMAS
Well, you're not me. Besides who else would want to be pastor in
this neighborhood. I fit right in.
(Drinks)
CANDY
No, honey, you don't and
you never will.
THOMAS
What's that suppose to
mean?
(Knock at door L)
CANDY
(Annoyed)
Who now?
JOHNNY
Thomas! You in there?!
(Knock)
THOMAS
It's just Johnny.
(Opens door. JOHNNY,
a casual dude, enters)
JOHNNY
Hey, man. How's it hangin'?
CANDY
Very good, thank you.
THOMAS
Candy!
CANDY
Lighten up, Thomas. Let me have my fun.
JOHNNY
Hey, Candy. How's life?
CANDY
Good as ever.
JOHNNY
You're looking especially
lovely this morning.
CANDY
Why, thank you,
Johnny.
(To THOMAS)
At least someone knows how
to give a lady a compliment. I guess
I'll head upstairs and leave you boys alone.
(Goes upstairs to get dressed)
JOHNNY
So how are ya', man?
THOMAS
I'm gettin'
by.
JOHNNY
Well, I got somethin' to cheer up your day.
(Takes out an envelope full of money and gives it
to him)
THOMAS
(Looks, amazed)
What's this?
JOHNNY
Your horse came in, man.
THOMAS
(Sits)
I can't believe it. That's was just a whim. The horse was called "Gabriel's
Fire" and I was feeling pretty lucky that day. But after I made the bet, I was sure I would
lose. I never bet on a long shot like
that.
JOHNNY
Yeah, man. I thought you was plain loco when you bet on
that horse, but you musta known what you was doin'.
THOMAS
(Still amazed)
I guess so.
JOHNNY
You want me to bet another
one for ya'?
THOMAS
No, Johnny. I think I'll pass.
JOHNNY
Hey, man. Whatever you say. Since you's got a little
extra cash, what would you say to a little poker some night this week.
THOMAS
Sure, why not.
JOHNNY
Cool. I'll get some guys together then.
CANDY
(Comes down, dressed)
I'll see you two later.
THOMAS
You're leaving?
CANDY
I've got to get ready for
my big trip to California.
(To JOHNNY)
I have a girlfriend down
there that I haven't seen in ages. We're
going to just drive to who knows where like those two chicks in that movie.
JOHNNY
Sounds like fun. Don't shoot nobody though.
CANDY
Only if they deserve it.
(She goes to THOMAS and gives him a big kiss)
I'll drop by before I go,
okay?
THOMAS
Sure, see ya'.
CANDY
Bye, Johnny.
JOHNNY
Later, Candy.
CANDY
Bye.
(Exits L)
JOHNNY
She's hot man. I don't see why you two don't just shack up
together.
THOMAS
In a church. I don't think so.
JOHNNY
Everyone knows about you
two anyway. Might as well make it
official.
THOMAS
I couldn't afford her
anyway. I can barely afford myself. And she won't want to support me.
JOHNNY
(Points to envelope)
You got money now.
THOMAS
It isn't enough.
(Puts money in Bible)
JOHNNY
Sometimes you just gotta take a gamble and do somethin'
despite the risks. Besides, money can't
buy everything.
THOMAS
But it sure can buy a
whole lot else.
(Lights fade to black)
Scene 2
(Midnight. It's
raining outside. Blue lights
come up depicting night.
Knocking at door L)
THOMAS
(In dark)
Just a minute!
(He turns on light switch at top of stairs.
Lights come on white.
More knocking)
I'm coming!
(He is in his robe and pajamas. He opens door and
a woman comes in wearing a rain coat and is
carrying a suitcase)
GABI
It's pouring out there.
THOMAS
(After the fact, to himself)
Come in.
GABI
(Takes hood from coat off)
My name's Gabi. Are you the
pastor of this church?
THOMAS
Yes.
GABI
Oh, good. Cause I need a place to stay.
(She takes off coat and gives it to him. She
never lets him get a word in)
I tried just about every
motel in town, but they're all full tonight.
I think it's cause of some state fair or somethin'. But it doesn't matter much though. It's not like I had enough money for one
anyway. I woulda
had to stay in one of them roach motels, ya' know
where they have hourly rates and vibratin' beds. I once had to stay in one of them motels
where the vibratin' thing was broken. I couldn't sleep. The darn thing kept me up all night. By morning I was so numb...never again. They should outlaw those places. You known what I mean?
(THOMAS nods, overwhelmed)
Well, anyway. I drove around awhile, not sure what to
do. My gas was low and I had to stop,
but I knew I should keep going cause somethin' would
always turn up. My mama always said
that. And so, not knowing what else I
could do, I said a little prayer.
Nothing fancy ya' understand cause I was
desperate. So I closed my eyes and
prayed hard. And you know what? When I opened my eyes I was here. Right here on your front steps. God had delivered me. And since mama always said that the church is
the haven from all the world's troubles I thought I'd come right on in and see
what you could do for me. Besides, who
could think of a safer place to be in than a church, and it's a whole lot
cheaper than a motel.
(Stops. Looks at
THOMAS)
Ya' know. I never
did catch your name.
THOMAS
Thomas Hall.
GABI
My name's Gabi Roberts. Did I
tell you that already? Oh, well, better
twice than never. It's nice to meet you
Pastor Thomas. I hope your helping me
out like this won't be too much trouble.
THOMAS
Well...I...
GABI
I certainly wouldn't want
to intrude. I mean my mama always told
me the church was a haven for all those in need. But I was a little girl then and I know how
things aren't quite like they are in childhood.
THOMAS
Gabi. It's not that
I don't want to help. I simply haven't
got any place for you to stay.
GABI
I don't take up much room,
really. You won't ever know I'm
here. In fact, point me to the chapel
and I'll sleep on one of the pews. I
don't mind. God can be my pillow and
Jesus will be my blanket. It'll be like
a church retreat.
THOMAS
I couldn't let you do
that.
GABI
Please, Pastor
Thomas. I won't be no trouble. In fact, I could be a great help to you. As long as you let me stay, I can cook and
clean and do whatever else you need.
THOMAS
I appreciate your offer,
but there's really no place for you to...
GABI
(Sees living room DL)
What about that sofa? That looks comfy enough. I used to sleep on a sofa all the time when I
was little. I won't mind one single bit.
THOMAS
I couldn't let you sleep
on there. I wouldn't feel right...
GABI
It's no trouble
really. I've slept on worse even. One time, when I went out to my aunt's, we
had to sleep in the barn. I had no idea
what kind of things lived in barns. It
was a regular wild kingdom.
THOMAS
Gabi. Don't you
have any place you could go? Friends,
relatives?
GABI
Most my relations are
dead, except for my mama. And I don't
have many friends.
THOMAS
Where's your mother?
GABI
She's in Florida.
THOMAS
That is pretty far away.
GABI
And I'm out of money.
THOMAS
Where did you come from?
GABI
Seattle.
THOMAS
Did you lose your job?
GABI
No, my husband.
THOMAS
I'm sorry. When did he pass away?
GABI
He didn't
unfortunately. I sure wish he had
though. It woulda
saved me a whole lot a trouble.
(Stops. Worried)
Oh, I'm sorry. I shouldn't say that in front of a pastor.
THOMAS
That's okay. I'm not God.
GABI
But you're the next best
thing.
THOMAS
Can I get you something to
drink?
GABI
Well, to be honest, I
could use a tall glass of wine right about now.
(He starts for kitchen surprised)
But you bein' a pastor and all, I'm sure you ain't
got nothin' but grape-juice.
(Pause. THOMAS isn't
sure what to say)
Do you have any iced tea?
THOMAS
Sure.
(Gets some for her)
So where are you planning
on going now?
GABI
On twenty dollars, not
far. I'm sure open to suggestions.
THOMAS
Could your mother help you
any?
GABI
I don't know if she can it
afford it. We've been helping her out
quite a bit lately so I doubt she has anything saved.
(Pause)
I guess I'll have to get a
job here for a while until I can afford by a bus ticket or something. But until then, I don't really have any place
to go.
THOMAS
(Gives her glass)
Here's your tea.
GABI
Thanks.
(Pause. Drinks)
THOMAS
Maybe I could find someone
for you to stay with for awhile until you get a job. Old Mrs. Walters next door might like the
company.
GABI
You think so?
THOMAS
Maybe. But we'll have to wait to ask her until
tomorrow.
GABI
Thank you so much for
helping me out like this, Pastor Thomas.
THOMAS
That's what the church is
here for.
GABI
(Looks at THOMAS thoughtfully)
Boy, I bet you must be one
good pastor.
THOMAS
What makes you say that?
GABI
You're so young and you
already have your own church. Most
pastors are so old and moldy. And
they're always talking about death and dying and eternal damnation. But your sermons must be so full of
life. Stand still a moment and let me
look at you.
(He does and is very uncomfortable. She smiles)
Yeah, I can see ya' now standin' up there
teaching to a willin' congregation about God and
love. It must quite a thing to see.
THOMAS
(A little nervous)
Would you like some more
tea?
GABI
Sure. But could you maybe put a little sugar in it?
THOMAS
I'm sorry. I forget that everyone doesn't like tea like
I do.
(Returns to kitchen)
GABI
I shouldn't be keepin' you up like this.
It's late. Why don't you go on
back to bed. I can get myself settled.
THOMAS
Actually, I'm going to
stay up and read awhile. Why don't you
go ahead and take my bed tonight. I'll
be okay on the sofa.
GABI
Oh, no, Pastor Thomas, I
couldn't let you do that.
THOMAS
Please. I couldn't sleep up there knowing that you
were on that lumpy old sofa.
GABI
You're such a good
man. They should give you your own TV
show.
THOMAS
(Laughs)
Goodnight, Gabi.
GABI
You've been so kind. God must have known what we was doing when he
brought me here. Sometimes I wonder what
God is trying to pull on me, but this time I think he did pretty good.
(Gets suitcase)
Goodnight, Pastor Thomas.
(Starts up stairs, stops)
Will you say a prayer for
me tonight?
THOMAS
(A bit uncomfortable with the request)
Of course, Gabi. Goodnight.
(GABI disappears happily upstairs. THOMAS sits at
the table confused, carelessly fingering his
Bible. Lights fade
to black)
Scene 3
(Lights come up on THOMAS flipping through his
Bible. He closes it)
THOMAS
I can't believe I'm still
wide awake. I haven't had insomnia in
years.
(Goes to kitchen)
Maybe a drink will relax
me.
(Pours some wine.
Puts bottle away. He picks up
glass as GABI appears)
GABI
Can't you sleep either?
(THOMAS drops glass of wine)
Oh, no. I'm sorry.
I didn't mean to startle you.
THOMAS
That's okay. It's not your fault.
(Starts to clean it up)
GABI
Let me clean it up for
you.
(Comes down)
THOMAS
No thanks. I can get it.
(Mops it up with a towel and cleans with a dust
pan)
GABI
I'm really sorry. I guess I should have
made more noise before saying something.
THOMAS
That's okay. I break glasses all the time. I think it runs in my family.
GABI
(Yawns)
I wish I could get some
sleep. I feel tired, but nothing's
happening.
THOMAS
Would you like some
milk? It usually helps me sleep.
GABI
Sure, I'll have some.
THOMAS
Hot or cold?
GABI
Cold's fine.
(THOMAS pours two glasses of milk)
THOMAS
Would you like anything to
snack on too?
GABI
I am a little hungry, but I
don't want you to go to any trouble.
THOMAS
(Gets up and goes to kitchen)
It's no trouble, as long
as you don't want something fancy.
GABI
Anything's fine by me.
THOMAS
How about cheese and
crackers...and pork rinds?
GABI
Pork rinds? You mean from a pig?
THOMAS
Yeah, I think it's fried
pigs' skin. They're pretty good.
GABI
I think I'll just have the
cheese and crackers, if that's okay?
THOMAS
Suit yourself.
(Eats some pork rinds while cutting cheese)
GABI
I really appreciate you
taking me in like this. Most people
would have sent me on my way.
THOMAS
The church is here as long
as you need it. That's the way Pastor
Mike wanted it.
GABI
Who's Pastor Mike?
THOMAS
He was the pastor who started
this church. I came on as assistant
pastor while he was here. When he died,
he wanted me to be pastor and continue his mission to help the needy. He always said we were to be guiding lights
for the lost, helping the needy through life.
We were to be the shepherds of the flock that all the big churches chose
to ignore.
GABI
You're not Baptist or
Methodist or nothing?
THOMAS
Nope. We're just old fashioned Christians.
GABI
I think that's
wonderful. This is such a beautiful
church.
THOMAS
I don't know if I'd go
that far. She's seen better days.
GABI
Who cares about a little
dust and dirt when there are good Christian people within. When people knock, you don't turn them away like
those other churches do, 'cause they're so darn worried about the poor folk gettin' stains on their carpets...you roll out the red and
let them wipe away their sins until they're clean.
THOMAS
You should be the
pastor. Listen to you talk.
GABI
I have a tendency to get
on my high horse if I'm not careful.
Sorry.
THOMAS
Don't be sorry. Your words were pretty inspirational.
GABI
Really? My words have never been all that inspiring
to anyone before.
THOMAS
Well, maybe nobody has
been listening close enough.
GABI
Ain't that the truth.
(Knock at door L)
THOMAS
I wonder who that is?
GABI
Odd hour for someone to be
calling on you.
(THOMAS goes to door, opens it. SANDY enters)
THOMAS
Sandy. What are you doing here? Is something wrong?
SANDY
(Enters)
I'm scared, Pastor
Thomas. Mommy's not home yet and it's
2:00.
GABI
Mercy, is it that late?
THOMAS
Sandy, this is Gabi. The church is
putting her up for the night.
GABI
Hi, Sandy. It's nice to meet you.
SANDY
(Shyly)
Hi.
THOMAS
Why don't you come and sit
down, Sandy?
SANDY
Why is mommy always gone
so late? I worry about her.
THOMAS
She'll be okay. She's with friends.
SANDY
But it's so late. I want her home.
THOMAS
I know. I do too.
SANDY
Can't you tell her to stay
home?
THOMAS
I wish I could, but she's
a grown-up and she can do what she wants.
SANDY
I wish she were a little
girl. I'd tell her to stay home.
THOMAS
The only thing you can do
is to remember this when you have a little girl. And instead of leaving her alone, you'll stay
and take care of her. Will you do that
for your little girl?
SANDY
I will, Pastor
Thomas. I'll never let her be scared.
THOMAS
I'll tell you what. There's someone you can take care of for me
now. She's very lonely and needs a home.
SANDY
Who, Pastor Thomas?
THOMAS
(Gets a stuffed animal from somewhere)
Here she is. She says "hello, Sandy."
SANDY
Hello. What's her name?
THOMAS
You know, she doesn't have
one yet. But she would sure like one.
SANDY
How about Peepers.
THOMAS
(To animal)
How does that sound to
you?
(Animal shakes her head yes with some help)
Oh, she likes it very
much.
(Listens)
What's that? Are you sure?
Okay, I'll tell her.
(To SANDY)
Peepers says she wants to
go home with you.
SANDY
Does she?
THOMAS
Definitely. But don't let her be lonely 'cause she'll get
scared.
SANDY
I'll take good care of
her, Pastor Thomas. I promise.
THOMAS
Why don't you and Peepers
go home and get to bed. I'll be over in
a little bit to guard the front porch until your mother gets home so you'll be
safe.
SANDY
Okay. Thank you, Pastor Thomas. Bye, Gabi.
(She exits L)
GABI
Bye, honey.
(Sandy closes door)
Poor girl. Does her mother leave her alone like that
very much?
THOMAS
It happens a lot
unfortunately.
GABI
And every time you go and
wait for her mother?
THOMAS
You bet. And it makes her mom feel guiltier than sin.
GABI
It looks like you must
mean a lot to that little girl.
THOMAS
It's the least I can do.
GABI
What you do is a lot more
than most people would.
THOMAS
I try.
GABI
Children must love
you. You seem to really care about their
feelings where most people would discount them.
THOMAS
Sometimes it even seems
like I have more kids showing up on Sundays for church than adults. I don't know what kids see in me.
GABI
Oh, I think I do. You have something special about you that
most people don't have. It's hard to put
my finger on, but it's there.
THOMAS
When you figure out what
it is, let me know.
(Looks at watch)
I better get on over to Sandy's.
GABI
Can I come along? I can't sleep anyway.
THOMAS
Sure. I'd enjoy the company.
GABI
It's a new moon
tonight. It should be a good night for
star gazing.
THOMAS
I'll make some hot cocoa
too. It can get kind of cold out there
at night.
GABI
I'll hurry and get
dressed.
(She starts upstairs)
THOMAS
And maybe grab a blanket
or two so we don't freeze to death. Let
me know if you can't find any.
GABI
Okay. Maybe I'll grab a sweater too.
(GABI disappears upstairs and THOMAS makes some
cocoa as lights fade to black)
Scene 4
(Tuesday morning.
Lights come up. A morning
light shines through a window DL into the
livingroom. THOMAS is trying to sleep on the
sofa. He tosses and
turns wanting to sleep some
more. He takes one
turn too many though and ends
up on the floor. He
lies on his back. The
morning light shines on him)
THOMAS
Sunlight. Thank God it's finally morning.
(Looks at watch)
Very, very early in the
morning, but morning none the less.
(Sits up)
Oh, my back. One night of this was bad enough, but two
nights is murder.
(Stands up and is hunched over)
I think I'll have a
shower. A nice, long, hot shower.
(He goes DL to bathroom door)
Mrs. Walters would have to
go away for a few days. She's never
gone. She's doing this purposely to
torment me.
(He goes into bathroom door behind livingroom
and
closes it behind him)
CANDY
(Enters in door L)
Thomas?
(Looks around)
Oh, good. He's still asleep. I'll just sneak up and surprise him.
(Sneaks upstairs. As
she goes in:)
Hello, Thomas.
(Cry of surprise then anger)
Hey! Who are you?!
(Comes storming out.
Goes downstairs)
THOMAS!
(GABI comes out.
She's wearing CANDY's robe from
scene 1)
Where's Thomas?
GABI
(At top of stairs)
Can I help you with
something?
CANDY
(Glares at GABI and looks again)
THOMAS!
THOMAS
(Appears in a bathrobe.
CANDY is very angry)
Candy!
(He is upset)
CANDY
(Points at GABI who comes downstairs)
Who's that?
THOMAS
(In a whisper)
What are you doing
here? I thought you left.
CANDY
(Not whispering)
What do you mean, what am
I doing here? What is she doing here?
GABI
Is there something wrong?
CANDY
(With THOMAS)
Yes!
THOMAS
(With CANDY)
No.
GABI
Who is this Thomas?
(Both women look at him:GABI
sadly, CANDY angrily)
THOMAS
(Thinking quickly)
Gabi...this is...my sister...Candy.
(CANDY is shocked at THOMAS)
GABI
(Delighted)
Oh, it's so wonderful to
meet you.
(CANDY is speechless)
You two even look a little
alike.
THOMAS
Gabi. Would you
mind leaving us alone a minute? I have
something to talk to Candy about in private.
GABI
Sure, Thomas. I'll get dressed.
(Starts upstairs.
Stops)
Oh, this must your robe
then, Candy. It's very comfortable. I hope you don't mind.
(To THOMAS)
And don't you lift a
finger toward making breakfast today. I
have something special planned.
(She disappears upstairs)
CANDY
(Viciously)
Something special planned,
huh? Who is that, Thomas?!
THOMAS
She showed up Sunday
night. She has no money and no one to
stay with. I couldn't just turn her
away.
CANDY
I'll bet you couldn't.
THOMAS
It's nothing like
that.
CANDY
I'll bet. I saw the way she looked at you.
THOMAS
Come on...
CANDY
She was in your bed!
THOMAS
And I've been on the sofa
the last two nights. I've got the back
ache to prove it.
CANDY
How long is she staying?
THOMAS
I was going to have her
stay with Mrs. Walters but she won't be back for a few days.
CANDY
This isn't like you,
Thomas. There's something fishy going
on.
THOMAS
Believe what you want,
Candy.
CANDY
Why are you being so cold?
THOMAS
Because I thought you
trusted me, but I guess I was wrong.
CANDY
I can see what's going
on. I'm not blind!
THOMAS
I don't know about that.
CANDY
I thought we had
something.
THOMAS
(Distant)
We do, Candy.
CANDY
(Ignoring his comment)
Obviously I was wrong.
THOMAS
Haven't you heard a word
I've been saying?
CANDY
What you haven't said has
been clear enough.
THOMAS
What's that mean?
CANDY
You're the one who's
blind.
THOMAS
(Angry)
Will you make some sense
for once?
CANDY
(Angry)
Fine. You want me to be clear? Listen close, 'cause I don't plan on
repeating myself.
(She turns and goes out door L, slamming it)
GABI
(Appears at top of stairs)
Is something wrong,
Thomas?
THOMAS
I'm not sure I really know
myself.
(Sits, confused. But
his anger is gone. He may
even seem a bit relieved to the critical eye)
GABI
(Comes down)
I heard yelling and I got
a little worried about you. But I didn't
want to butt in. I have a tendency to do
that.
THOMAS
It was nothing. Just a little quarrel that brothers and
sisters have occasionally.
GABI
I'm an only child myself. I've always kind of wanted a sister
though. But not a brother. Seems to me a brother would be more trouble
than anything else...
(Worried)
No offense.
THOMAS
(Smiles)
None taken.
GABI
I didn't realize brothers
and sisters fought so much though.
THOMAS
At times they do, but not
always.
GABI
I wonder if I woulda turned out different if I had a sister. I might have been a stronger person, better
able to take care of people and give support instead of demanding it all the
time.
THOMAS
You seem fine to me the
way you are.
GABI
You think so?
THOMAS
From the contact we've
had, you seem like a pretty together person.
GABI
Thank you.
THOMAS
You're welcome.
GABI
So what would you like for
breakfast? The sky's the limit.
THOMAS
I'm afraid I haven't much
to offer.
GABI
I can be pretty creative
when I want to be.
(Starts searching cupboards in kitchen)
THOMAS
You'll have to be in my
kitchen.
GABI
Let's see.
(Can take things out as she finds them)
We have crackers, oatmeal,
brown sugar, vinegar, garlic... See, there's plenty of things to work with.
(THOMAS looks worried)
Oh, dear. There's something wrong, isn't there?
THOMAS
Huh? Oh, no Gabi, I was
just...
(His hand unconsciously falls on his Bible)
GABI
I know what it is.
THOMAS
(Worried he has offended her)
You do?
GABI
I'm keeping you from your
devotions, aren't I?
THOMAS
Well, actually...
GABI
Nope. Not another word. I refuse to come between any person and God,
especially not a pastor. You run along
and do your devotions and I'll cook up a little surprise for you.
THOMAS
No, Gabi. Really, it's...
GABI
Nope, I insist.
THOMAS
(Gives in, stands and picks up Bible)
I'll be in the chapel if
you need me for anything.
GABI
I wouldn't dream of
disturbing you.
(GABI continues her search.
THOMAS pauses at
chapel door ULC a moment, looking confused. He
looks at his Bible, gives a sigh and exits)
Now, let's see what his
refrigerator has to offer.
(She opens it. Takes
a step back, worried)
Oh, dear.
(She looks at chapel, then at fridge. Like she
was picking up a snake, she reaches for something
inside. She takes
out a wine bottle)
THOMAS
(Enters)
Gabi, about breakfast.
What would you say to...
(She turns to him holding out bottle. THOMAS
freezes)
GABI
Thomas? What is this?
THOMAS
Wine.
GABI
What is it doing in your refrigerator?
THOMAS
Getting chilled?
GABI
(Getting upset and confused)
But why do you have any
wine? I thought pastors didn't drink.
THOMAS
Gabi, listen...
GABI
(Upset)
No stop! Don't say another word. Listen to me!
Who do I think I am? Making
demands like this. I should be
ashamed. I'm so sorry, Thomas. And you've been so patient with me. Anyone else would have told me to mind my own
business. You're such a kind and
understanding person. Can you ever forgive
me?
THOMAS
There's really nothing to
forgive...
GABI
Oh, you're so blind to my
faults. But I suppose all pastors are a
little that way. They only see the good
in people so they can help develop it and bring it out for everyone to
see. That is except for Jimmy Swaggart. I'm startin' to wonder if maybe he isn't on the level.
(To THOMAS, very apologetic)
I'm really sorry about the
wine. It's probably your sister's isn't
it? I tend to jump to conclusions.
THOMAS
That's okay, really, because...
GABI
Please don't try to make
me feel better. I know when I've done somethin' wrong and I don't want anyone to tell me
otherwise.
(THOMAS is speechless)
I guess what scared me so
much about the wine was because my husband's a drinker. That's why I left him. I just got really scared when I saw the wine
in there. Scared of him, and scared for
you. I've seen what it can do to a
person. But then I look at you and I
know you could never be that way.
(She turns and begins pouring wine down the drain)
THOMAS
(Trying not to get angry)
Gabi. What are you
doing?
GABI
Pourin' it all down the drain.
THOMAS
(In distress)
But...but... why?
GABI
Well, you don't need it do
you?
THOMAS
Well, no, but my sister.
GABI
From the looks of her, she
could stand to drink a little less herself.
There, all gone.
THOMAS
(Upset, sits)
My sister's going to be
really mad about this.
GABI
Well, like my mama always
said, "if you can't use it, you'll abuse it."
(Back to refrigerator)
Now, for breakfast. Ah, the refrigerator looks more
promising. Milk, eggs, ketchup...
(Holds up next item excitedly)
Tabasco sauce! The miracle worker. I love using it in stuff.
(THOMAS gets a worried look on his face. She
happily continues her search)
Mustard, sour cream, green
peppers, pickles...
(Lights fade to black)
Scene 5
(Lights come up on THOMAS who is sitting at the
table with an empty plate in front of him. He
looks very ill)
THOMAS
Why did I eat that? I should have known this would happen. I think I'll go lie down for awhile.
(Knock at door L)
I hope that's an
ambulance.
(Answers door.
JOHNNY enters)
JOHNNY
Hey, man.
THOMAS
Hi, Johnny.
(Goes to table again and sits holding his stomach)
JOHNNY
You okay?
THOMAS
Do I look okay?
JOHNNY
(Picks up plate and smells it)
You eat somethin' bad?
THOMAS
You could say that.
JOHNNY
You didn't let Candy cook
for you?
THOMAS
I'm not that crazy.
JOHNNY
I thought you were a good
cook.
THOMAS
I wouldn't call being able
to follow the directions on a frozen pizza box good cooking.
JOHNNY
It's better than I could
do.
THOMAS
Boy, do I feel sick.
JOHNNY
You sure look sick. Can I get you somethin'?
THOMAS
Sure. I think there's some stuff in the bathroom
that might work.
JOHNNY
I'll be right back.
(As he crosses R to bathroom)
Don't die while I'm gone.
THOMAS
You'd better hurry then.
(JOHNNY disappears into bathroom. GABI appears at
top of stairs. Comes
down)
GABI
I see you finished
already. Would you like some more?
THOMAS
Well, I don't know. It was awfully...interesting, but I don't
think I could eat another bite.
GABI
Okay, if you're sure.
THOMAS
Pretty sure.
(She puts leftovers in refrigerator)
How come you didn't have
any?
GABI
I don't usually eat
breakfast. If I do, it's nothing more
than some fruit or something. Nothing fancy
like I gave you.
THOMAS
I'll have to get some
fruit then.
GABI
Now, please don't go out
of your way for me, Thomas.
THOMAS
No, that's fine. Fruit for breakfast sounds good to me.
GABI
You sure? I really don't mind making breakfast for ya'.
THOMAS
Maybe every once in a
while you can make something different.
If you made it all the time then it wouldn't be quite so special.
GABI
I'm so glad you liked my
breakfast. My husband would always
complain. Pretty soon he wouldn't even
eat breakfast at home anymore...or any other meal. I tried to be a good cook, but I guess I
never could do much right.
THOMAS
I enjoyed breakfast. Really.
GABI
Thank you. It means a lot to me in some silly sort of
way. You're a good man, Thomas. You know how to make someone feel real good
inside.
THOMAS
That's what pastors do, I
guess.
GABI
No, not just any ol' pastor can do that.
You have something special.
THOMAS
I try.
GABI
And you do a wonderful
job.
(A flush of a toilet is heard off R)
JOHNNY
(Comes out with a package of something)
I hope this stuff is what
you wanted. You got so much junk in
there, man. I thought I'd never find it.
(Sees GABI for first time, surprised)
GABI
(Smiles)
Hi.
JOHNNY
Uh, hey. How's it goin'?
THOMAS
I guess I should introduce
you two. Gabi
this is my friend Johnny.
GABI
Hello, Johnny. Pleased to meet you.
(JOHNNY isn't sure what to say)
THOMAS
John. This is Gabi.
(JOHNNY nods, still confused)
She was a little low on
money, so as the pastor of our church, I decided to take her in until she could
get back on her feet again.
GABI
Pastor Thomas is such a
good man taking me in like this. Most
other pastors woulda sent me on my way. You must be proud to have him as your pastor.
JOHNNY
(Not sure what's up)
Yeah, he's a real cool
dude. He's so like us, we sometimes
forget he's a pastor.
(THOMAS winces at this remark)
GABI
He's isn't like those high
and mighty preachers with nothing but Hell spillin'
from their lips. His words are the milk
and honey of the masses.
JOHNNY
Yeah, man. A real heaven on Earth.
(GABI laughs. JOHNNY
holds up medicine)
You want this with red or
white wine?
(GABI stops smiling)
THOMAS
(Quickly)
Oh, Johnny. You're such a kidder!
(Fake laugh. JOHNNY
and GABI are both confused)
Water would be fine.
(GABI accepts THOMAS's fib)
JOHNNY
(Puzzled)
Sure, man.
(Goes to sink thinking "something's wrong with
this dude")
GABI
Well, I guess I'll go
upstairs and leave you boys alone.
(She exits upstairs)
THOMAS
Thanks, Gabi.
(JOHNNY gives THOMAS water and he takes medicine)
JOHNNY
(When GABI is gone)
What's the deal, man?
THOMAS
What do you mean?
JOHNNY
Who's the chick?
THOMAS
It's just like I
said. She was on her way to Florida to
be with her mother and ran out of money by the time she got here. So she asked if she could stay here for
awhile. Churches do that sort of thing, ya' know.
JOHNNY
They don't do it that
much.
THOMAS
Well, they should.
JOHNNY
Since when did you become
super pastor?
(THOMAS is annoyed, silence)
I'm sorry, man, but somethin' weird's goin' on. This ain't like you.
THOMAS
(Angry)
Why does everyone keep
saying that? Why isn't it like me? Am I such a horrible person that it isn't
possible for me to do anything good?
JOHNNY
Chill out, dude. I wasn't tryin' to
get ya' all worked up. I was just talkin'.
(Pause)
So what's Candy think of
this?
THOMAS
Candy thinks I'm sleeping
with her.
JOHNNY
Ain't you?
THOMAS
(Annoyed)
No! Of course not.
JOHNNY
Sorry. It just kinda
looked like you were.
THOMAS
(Still mad)
How so?
JOHNNY
(A little nervous)
I don't know...the way ya' talked to her...the way she talked about you...and the
way you looked at each other...
(THOMAS calms down and becomes lost in thought)
But I'm probably way off
base.
THOMAS
I don't know what it
is. There's something about her...
something special that I've never found in anyone else before. She's not the kind of woman you'd want to get
into bed...She's the kind...I don't know...
JOHNNY
What's with you, man? You goin' weird on
me?
THOMAS
Yeah, I guess I am.
JOHNNY
(Kindly)
You ain't
sleepin' with her?
THOMAS
No.
JOHNNY
That's too weird.
THOMAS
Why?
JOHNNY
And you don't want to
sleep with her?
(THOMAS shakes his head no)
Too weird, man.
THOMAS
(Pause)
She's so nice. I don't think I could ever think of her that
way.
JOHNNY
Boy, she's sure got you
under some sort of spell, though.
THOMAS
(Hidden smile)
Maybe.
JOHNNY
What about Candy?
THOMAS
(Slightly annoyed)
What about her?
JOHNNY
Well...she ain't gonna like this.
THOMAS
I've already had it out
with her about it.
JOHNNY
Does that mean you're done
with her then?
THOMAS
I don't know if we ever
really started.
JOHNNY
So is it Gabi now? No more
Candy?
THOMAS
(Tired of their talk)
Johnny, I don't know,
okay. I'm not really thinking about it.
JOHNNY
Sure, man. Take it easy.
That's fine by me.
THOMAS
So did you come over for any
special reason?
JOHNNY
Yeah, I was wonderin' if you want to get together for a little poker.
THOMAS
I don't know. Maybe.
JOHNNY
What do you mean,
"you don't know"? You're the
backbone of our gamblin' nights. And there's something cool about playin' poker in a church.
THOMAS
I don't think we ought to
have it here. With Gabi
here... Let's just say I don't want to deal with it.
JOHNNY
Man, you really do like
her, don't you?
THOMAS
She thinks a lot of
me. I'd hate to ruin it for her by
gambling.
JOHNNY
Hey, I'm easy. Let's do it at my house. Maybe I could send my wife over to keep Gabi busy. Then Gabi'd be out of your hair.
And then my wife would be out of mine.
THOMAS
I guess we could do that.
JOHNNY
What's with you, man? You're always a lot more excited about poker
than this.
THOMAS
Something doesn't feel
right about it.
JOHNNY
Your conscious ain't never bothered you before.
THOMAS
(Snaps at him)
I never said my conscious was
bothering me.
JOHNNY
That's cool, man. Don't let me speak for you.
THOMAS
I guess there's no reason
why I shouldn't go. Gabi
doesn't have to know what I'm doing.
JOHNNY
Tell her you're out baptizin' people or somethin'.
THOMAS
(Sighs)
Yes, Johnny.
JOHNNY
(Starts to go)
Then, we're all set. And bring some of that horse money you
won. I want to win me some of that.
THOMAS
In your dreams.
JOHNNY
Dreams sometimes come
true.
THOMAS
Not in this world.
JOHNNY
I'll be seeing you
tonight.
THOMAS
One more thing,
Johnny. If you have your wife come over,
could you make sure she won't say anything about what we're really doing
tonight? There's no reason to tell Gabi that we're gambling.
It's not that big of deal, but..well I just
don't want to make trouble.
JOHNNY
It's hard to get my wife
to keep quiet about anything, man.
THOMAS
Please, try. It's important.
JOHNNY
Sure, man. No sweat.
THOMAS
Thanks.
JOHNNY
(Starts to exit to door L)
And don't forget that
horse money.
THOMAS
See you, Johnny.
(JOHNNY exits L.
THOMAS goes to Bible where he put
his horse money and looks at it sadly. GABI
enters. He quickly
puts it away)
GABI
Is your friend gone already?
THOMAS
Yes. He had some business to attend to.
(GABI has her purse and jacket)
Are you going out?
GABI
I thought I'd go to the
grocery store. I'm afraid I used up most
of what you had on breakfast. Sorry
about that.
THOMAS
That's fine. Let me give you some money for the store.
(Takes out wallet)
GABI
Are you sure? I'll be happy to pay. I'm a smart shopper, ya'
know. I can make money go pretty far
when I put my mind to it.
THOMAS
(Hands her the money)
Here. I insist.
GABI
Thank you. I'll pay for my own food though.
THOMAS
No. The church insists on picking up the whole
tab.
GABI
(Smiles)
Well, I definitely
wouldn't want to argue with the church.
(Pause)
Do you need anything special
from town?
THOMAS
No, not that I know
of. Oh, by the way, Johnny invited me
over to watch a football game on TV next Monday night.
GABI
You like football?
THOMAS
Not really, but it gives
me a chance to socialize with Johnny.
GABI
Okay. I'll be fine here. I'm sure there will be something I can watch
on TV.
THOMAS
I invited Johnny's wife to
come over and keep you company. She
hates football.
GABI
A woman after my own
heart.
(They look at each other.
Pause)
Okay. I guess I'd better get going.
THOMAS
Okay.
(They still look at each other. Pause)
Gabi?
GABI
(Softly)
Yes, Thomas?
THOMAS
I just wanted to
say...well...
GABI
Yes?
THOMAS
Thank you for all you've
done since you've been here. The
shopping, breakfast...
GABI
I haven't done all that
much.
THOMAS
Sure you have. I really appreciate it.
GABI
Thomas. You've been so good to me. Bringing me in like this. It's nice to see that someone still cares in
this world.
THOMAS
I do my best.
GABI
You do a wonderful job.
(She kisses him on the cheek. Pauses a moment to
look at him. Pause)
Thank you.
(Then she exits out door L.
Lights fade to black)
Scene 6
(Lights come up on THOMAS sitting at his table
drinking coffee and sort of looking through his
Bible. Knock at door
L)
THOMAS
Come in.
(CANDY enters)
What are you doing
here?
CANDY
(Her voice is calm, yet restrained)
I saw that woman leave in
her car a while ago. Did she leave you?
THOMAS
(Looks back at Bible)
She went shopping. She's been very helpful since she's been
here.
CANDY
She's staying then?
THOMAS
That's up to her.
(Pause)
CANDY
I wonder what her game is?
THOMAS
(Turns to her)
What do you mean by that?
CANDY
(Looks away)
She wants something from
you, I know that much.
THOMAS
She needs a place to stay
for awhile. She has no money. I would have had her stay with Mrs. Walters
but she's been gone for awhile. And I'm
the pastor of this church, so I felt that it was my duty...
CANDY
I get the feeling you're
being driven by deeper things than duty.
THOMAS
Candy. If you're simply here to insult me, I'd
rather you left.
(Turns away, back to coffee)
CANDY
(Pauses, upset)
Why are you being so mean
to me?
THOMAS
(Gets up. Walks
away)
Because you're not giving
me any reason to be nice.
CANDY
Why are you doing this to
me?
THOMAS
Doing what?
CANDY
Ditching me for that Gabby
chick. Don't you any feelings for
me?
THOMAS
(Angry)
What we had...it wasn't
love. It had nothing to do with it. I just can't go on like that. It isn't right.
CANDY
Who said anything about it
being right?! And since when were you so
moral?!
THOMAS
(Crosses to door L)
I don't have to put up
with this.
CANDY
Yes, you do. You can't just take what we had and forget
about it.
THOMAS
(Turns to open door)
Get out!
CANDY
(Grabs him)
Please, listen to me,
Thomas.
THOMAS
(Crosses away)
No. Leave me alone.
CANDY
I can't just forget about
you. I love you.
THOMAS
Don't say that.
CANDY
But it's true. Please...
THOMAS
(Turns away)
Stop it! I don't want to hear it!
(Pause. He is turned
away. CANDY is crying. She
goes up to him)
CANDY
(Softly)
Please, don't be mad,
Thomas. I didn't come to hurt you or
make things worse. I just came to
see...how you felt. Now I know.
(She begins to cry)
THOMAS
Please, don't cry.
CANDY
I don't know what else to
do.
(Pause)
Will you hold me? And then I'll go.
(THOMAS half turns reluctantly, considers and then
goes to her. Holds
her. She cries some more)
GABI
(Enters through door L)
Boy, I sure made out like
a bandit today!
(Sees them)
Oh, I'm sorry.
THOMAS
(They separate)
That's fine, Gabi.
GABI
(Sees that CANDY has been crying. Gently)
What's wrong?
THOMAS
Candy's having some
problems...with her boyfriend.
(To CANDY)
Everything will work out
for the best.
CANDY
(Softly)
How can you be so sure?
THOMAS
Things always seem to work
themselves out.
CANDY
I hope so, though I'm
doubtful.
(Starts for door)
GABI
Goodbye, Candy.
(CANDY looks at her with a lost expression then
exits L)
Is your sister going to be
okay?
THOMAS
I don't know. It's always hard to know how things will work
out for Candy. But they always seem to
in some way, shape, or form.
(Turns, smiles)
Do you need any help
bringing in the groceries?
GABI
Not yet. I want to give you something first.
(She takes out a bag that has been stuffed into
her purse)
Go on, open it.
THOMAS
Gabi. You shouldn't
have bought me anything.
GABI
I really wanted to. You've done so much for me. I wanted to give you something back. Besides, it was on sale. Go on.
THOMAS
Okay, okay.
(He opens sack and looks in. He is not sure what
to think. He takes
out a horrible looking
stocking hat that any self respecting person
wouldn't wear in public)
I'm...not sure what to
say.
GABI
(Excited with her gift)
Put it on. I want to see you in it.
(He puts it on reluctantly.
He looks extremely
silly. GABI is
extremely pleased)
It's perfect.
THOMAS
Yeah, it'll come in pretty
useful in about four or five months.
GABI
I like to plan ahead. And it sure was cheap. I can't see why though.
THOMAS
I don't know. Department stores do some pretty crazy things
sometimes.
GABI
I'll say. You can help me with those groceries now.
THOMAS
Sure. I'll be out in a minute.
(She exits L. He
takes off the hat and looks at
it a moment like it was diseased. He sets it on
the table next to the Bible. He looks at hat a
moment and smiles.
Then exits L. Lights fade to
black)
Scene 7
(Lights come up on GABI cutting up brownies or
something and putting them on a plate)
GABI
(Calling upstairs)
Johnny and his wife should
be here soon, Thomas! You'd better hurry
up!
THOMAS
I can't find my Miami
sweatshirt.
GABI
I put it in the wash. It had a big stain on it.
(Knock at door L)
They're here!
THOMAS
Okay, I'll be down in a
minute.
GABI
(She answers door.
JOHNNY and wife, BETTY enter)
Hello. How are you two this evening?
JOHNNY
I'm ready to roll. Where's the pastor man?
GABI
He's upstairs.
JOHNNY
(Calls)
You comin'
or what?!
THOMAS
(Off)
Patience, Johnny,
patience!
JOHNNY
The game ain't gonna wait.
THOMAS
(Enters in sweatshirt and jeans)
Okay. Let's go.
(They start to go)
You ladies have fun.
(Touches GABI on shoulder)
GABI
(Returns his casual touch)
We will. Don't worry about us.
JOHNNY
Let's go, man.
GABI
Wait. Each of you take a brownie before you go.
(Gives each of them one)
JOHNNY
Cool. My wife never makes this kinda
stuff.
BETTY
You do some of the cookin', cleanin', or dish washin' and I'll consider it.
GABI
You boys enjoy yourselves.
THOMAS
Thanks.
(JOHNNY bites his brownie and gets a horrible look
on his face. Only
THOMAS notices)
JOHNNY
Hey, man. What is this...!
THOMAS
Goodbye. Let's go.
(THOMAS shuts JOHNNY up.
They exit L)
GABI
Goodbye.
(They're gone. Turns
to BETTY)
I guess we should
introduce ourselves.
BETTY
Johnny tends to forget
those kind of things.
GABI
My name's Gabi.
BETTY
Mine's Betty.
GABI
Nice to meet you,
Betty. Would you like a brownie?
BETTY
Sure.
(Takes one. Looks
around)
So how long have you been
with Thomas?
GABI
(Confused)
Been with him?
BETTY
Yeah, living here.
GABI
Oh, I'm not...Pastor
Thomas is letting me stay here awhile, until I can get back on my feet.
BETTY
Oh. Johnny didn't really say much about it...I
thought...Never mind, it's not important.
(Bites into brownie.
Gets an odd look)
GABI
It's a special
recipe. I made it up myself. I like to experiment.
BETTY
(Tries to swallow it)
How interesting.
GABI
(Making conversation)
So, do Johnny and Thomas
watch football every Monday night?
BETTY
Football?
(Remembers)
Oh, sure, almost all the
time.
GABI
I never thought Thomas
would like to watch football. He doesn't
seem the type.
BETTY
He's a male. He's the type.
GABI
So, do you want to play
cards or something?
BETTY
Sure, that would be
appropriate.
GABI
(Gets some cards)
What do you mean?
BETTY
After all, that's what the
boys are doing.
GABI
I thought they were
watching football.
BETTY
(Pause, caught)
Yeah, that too.
GABI
They do both?
(They sit at table)
BETTY
Sure, all the time. Between innings and touch outs or homedowns or whatever the stupid things are called.
GABI
I didn't think a pastor
would play cards.
BETTY
Sure, why not. He isn't God.
You going to deal?
GABI
I'm sorry. Here.
(Gives her cards.
Lost in thought)
BETTY
What you want to play?
GABI
I don't care.
BETTY
How about poker?
GABI
I don't know how to play.
BETTY
It's simple really. That's why men play it so much. Anything else would confuse them.
GABI
I don't have any money.
BETTY
We'll play for
pennies. I have a bunch in my purse.
(She gets purse)
GABI
Who taught you to play
poker?
BETTY
Johnny and I play all the
time. I win so much from him it pretty much
puts me in control of the finances. Not
that he contributes much with his salary.
My job pays for almost everything.
I wish the boys would let me in on their games once in a while. I'd clean 'em out.
GABI
(Pushes plate over to her)
Would you like another
brownie?
BETTY
Maybe later. They're a little rich for me.
(Pushes plate back)
Why don't you have one?
GABI
No thanks. The sugar's no good for me. I mainly cooked them for Thomas. He's awfully skinny.
BETTY
(Eyeing her)
Yeah, Thomas needs a good
woman to take care of him.
GABI
(Self absorbed.
Smiles)
Yes, he does.
BETTY
You like him a lot don't
you?
GABI
Don't be silly. It's nothing like that. I'm just thankful for what he's done for me, that's
all.
BETTY
And I think he likes
you. I saw you two talking a walk the
other night. He'd watch you happily as
you talked and look at the way your hair moved in the wind. And you'd walk closely to him letting your
arms brush against each other.
GABI
Do you really think...no,
that's silly.
BETTY
I don't think I've seen
him that happy in a long time. At least
not since Pastor Mike died.
GABI
Pastor Mike meant a lot to
him didn't he?
BETTY
They were like father and
son. I guess Thomas' father was a real
jerk and Pastor Mike never had any kids.
They became real close before Mike died.
Thomas was really shook up by it.
GABI
He seems okay now though.
BETTY
But he sure wasn't for the
longest time. Maybe you're doing him
some good.
GABI
I doubt it.
BETTY
He's changed a lot since
you've been here. Johnny's noticed it
more than I have. And I heard his sermon
yesterday was pretty spectacular.
GABI
Haven't they always been
good?
BETTY
They've been okay. I mean, they're always interesting but ever
since Pastor Mike died there hasn't been a lot of feeling behind them. And they kept getting shorter and shorter as
the congregation got smaller. Accept for
last Sunday. I heard he went almost
until 12:30.
GABI
It sure was
something. I don't think anyone minded
it going over. And his communion speech
was the most beautiful of all. He must
have had half the old ladies crying.
BETTY
Johnny says he hasn't even
been drinking.
GABI
(Surprised)
I didn't know he drank at
all.
BETTY
You bet he did. Like a fish.
GABI
I thought pastor weren't
supposed to.
BETTY
Most do. You should see the Baptist minister down the
road. He even does his sermons drunk. I heard he even passed out at the pulpit
once. His wife told everyone he just got
a little too much of the holy spirit.
GABI
(BETTY shuffles cards.
GABI watches her shuffle)
You're pretty good.
BETTY
If those boys ever let me
in on a game, I'll give 'em a show.
GABI
When do they play?
BETTY
Every Monday...night.
(Too late. Spilled
the beans for good)
GABI
Monday?
BETTY
Well, not always...
(GABI gets up, crosses away)
...in fact, they rarely
play at all...
(Carelessly)
Why, with the way Thomas
always wins they get bored with it pretty quickly...I mean...
(Gives up)
Mind if I go crawl into a
hole somewhere.
GABI
(Upset. Gets up)
Is there anything else I
don't know about Thomas? How come I don't
know about any of this?
BETTY
He's changed since you've
been here Gabi.
GABI
Apparently not all that
much if he's gone off to gamble tonight.
BETTY
It was Johnny's idea. He said Thomas didn't even really want to go.
GABI
But he did.
BETTY
Maybe they're really
watching football.
GABI
I'm not that naive, Betty.
BETTY
I wasn't supposed to tell
you any of this.
GABI
I'm glad you did. I hate being lied to.
BETTY
He's really trying to
change Gabi.
He hasn't been drinking and he's been doing that since he came
here. Pastor Mike would even have a few
with him sometimes. But Thomas got a lot
worse after Mike died. Drinking was the
only was he knew how to deal with it.
GABI
I wish he hadn't lied to
me about it, though.
BETTY
And the boys never play
for high stakes. I won't let them
because I know Johnny would lose a bundle.
GABI
(Angry)
I just don't like being
lied to, Betty. I thought I could trust
him.
BETTY
You still can, Gabi. Thomas has
always been reliable. He's the one that
holds the kids of this neighborhood together.
Without him I don't know where'd they be.
(Pause)
I think he really about
you, Gabi. I
don't think he'd lie if he didn't.
GABI
(Long pause)
Is Candy really his
sister?
BETTY
(Pause)
No.
GABI
So many lies.
(Walks away)
BETTY
They got together after
Pastor Mike died. She had always been
after him but he never was interested.
But after Mike's death, Thomas needed something to latch on to and she
made her move. I don't think he ever
liked her that much but he needed something.
(Pause)
If only you'd come along
sooner.
GABI
He seems so perfect. Or maybe I just wanted to see him that
way.
BETTY
Maybe there's still a
chance he could change.
GABI
I don't know.
BETTY
(Pause)
Do you love him?
GABI
I...I haven't really
thought about it. Everything's happened
so quickly. There's still so much I
don't know about him. He's made me feel
like no other man has been able to before, but...after all that you've said...
I don't know if I could trust him anymore.
BETTY
So is that it then? Is it all over?
GABI
What do you mean?
BETTY
Are you going to give up?
GABI
I don't see what other
choice I have.
BETTY
Gabi. Can't you see
what you've done for him?
GABI
No.
BETTY
Thomas gave up everything
to please you...drinking, Candy... he even lied to make you happy...In other
words, he's willing to change everything about his life for you.
GABI
But why?
BETTY
That's something you'll
need to find out for yourself.
(Pause)
Do you still want to play
cards?
GABI
(Gets up. Turns
away)
No, I think I'd like to be
alone for awhile.
BETTY
(Understanding)
I'll go then.
(Pause. Gets
her purse and coat)
And Gabi?
GABI
Yes?
BETTY
Don't underestimate the
power of a woman.
(BETTY smiles and exits out door L. GABI sits and
is unsure of what to do.
She is almost in tears.
Bows her head and begins a desperate prayer.
Lights fade to black)
Scene 8
(Same evening.
Lights come up on GABI coming
downstairs. She has
her coat and suitcase. She
stops at table, sets her things on the table. She
takes paper and pencil from purse and sits.
Considers what to write.
THOMAS comes to door
drunk. Fumbles with
key as he sings:)
THOMAS
"Jesus loves me this
I know. For the Bible tells me
so..."
(Continues. GABI is
upset, she pauses a moment,
then goes to open door.
THOMAS stumbles in)
Gabi! Hello! I'm back.
Boy o' boy was that a good football game.
(Stumbles to table.
Takes some money out of
pocket. GABI is
about in tears)
Gee, what's this? Don't you worry, Gabi. It ain't gambling
money. It's good Christian dollars. I know, 'cause I'm a pastor.
(Sees suitcase)
What's that? You didn't pack...you aren't leaving are you?
GABI
(So upset she can hardly speak)
Yes.
THOMAS
(This sobers him a bit)
Why?
GABI
(Not sure what to do)
I was going to leave you a
note. But I didn't...
THOMAS
(Goes to her)
You can't leave...I want
you to stay...
(She moves away from his grasp. He falls)
GABI
Thomas!
(She kneels next to him)
THOMAS
(Lying on back)
I don't think I remember
the ceiling ever being this high before.
GABI
Are you okay?
THOMAS
Sure, why?
GABI
You fell down. I thought you were hurt.
THOMAS
Fell down?
(Tries to sit up)
You know. I think you're right.
GABI
(She helps him up)
Let's get you into a
chair.
(He sits. Grabs her
hand. Draws her in)
THOMAS
Why do you want to leave
me, Gabi?
GABI
Please, let go.
THOMAS
I never want to let you
go.
GABI
(Gets free)
Stop it.
THOMAS
What's wrong? Why are you so angry?
GABI
Look at yourself. You lied to me...about a lot of things.
THOMAS
Like what? What have I done? Name one thing?
GABI
Candy's not your sister.
THOMAS
Who told you that?
GABI
Betty. But I had sort of guessed anyway.
THOMAS
I knew she couldn't keep
her mouth shut.
GABI
I'm leaving.
THOMAS
No.
(Tries to stand)
Don't go.
(Falls)
GABI
Thomas!
(Gets him to his knees.
He leans on table)
I can't leave you like
this.
THOMAS
(Pushes her away)
Go on. Leave me.
I don't care. I don't need you.
GABI
(Gets him to his feet.
He leans against table)
We've got to get you to
bed.
THOMAS
You want to go to bed with
me?
(Goes to embrace her.
She moves away. He falls
to floor)
GABI
(Looking at him on floor)
I just want to help you.
THOMAS
(Lying on back)
You're doing a great job.
(She crosses away to kitchen. Gets a glass of
water)
What are you doing?
(Goes and dumps water on his face. He sits up)
What did you do that for?!
GABI
Just a little cold water
to bring you to your senses.
(Grabbing him)
Now get up.
THOMAS
Yes, ma'am.
(She pulls him up.
He embraces her)
I just love it when your
forceful.
GABI
(Sort of pushing him)
Please, don't.
THOMAS
I have to hold on or I'll
fall.
(Looks in her eyes)
You don't want me to fall
do you?
GABI
(A little lost)
No.
THOMAS
You're very beautiful, Gabi. Do you know
that?
GABI
No.
THOMAS
Can't you say anything
besides no?
(GABI is about to say no but stops)
Enough talk. It never means much anyway.
(He kisses her.
Lights fade to black)
Scene 9
(Morning. Lights
come up on Gabi drinking coffee.
She's lost in pleasant thoughts. THOMAS appears
at top of stairs. He
looks horrible. He comes
down the stairs, wincing in pain at every step he
takes)
GABI
(Looks up at him coming down stairs)
Good morning, Thomas.
THOMAS
(Almost moaning)
Morning.
GABI
How are you feeling?
THOMAS
Horrible.
GABI
Would you like some
coffee?
THOMAS
Sure, why not.
(He sits. She gets
him a cup)
GABI
Would you like any
breakfast?
THOMAS
Not really.
GABI
It's no trouble.
THOMAS
I don't feel up to it this
morning.
(Sips coffee.
Surprised)
Coffee's good.
GABI
Is it? I lost count when I was filling the machine
with coffee. I was worried I put too
much in.
THOMAS
It's perfect.
(Long pause. She
sits)
GABI
(Together)
Thomas.
THOMAS
(With GABI)
Gabi.
THOMAS
Go ahead.
GABI
No, that's
okay...please...
THOMAS
(Pause. He thinks carefully
about what to say)
I'm sorry I lied to you
about last night. Actually, I'm sorry I
lied to you about everything. I should
have told you what I was like from the start.
GABI
It's okay, Thomas.
THOMAS
No, it's not okay. I never should have led you on like
that. You must hate me now.
GABI
No, not at all.
(Pause. He's
confused)
I think you're a good
man. You have a few problems, but who
doesn't. It's just that there's something
special about you...something in you I've never seen in anyone before. You really care about people...maybe even
more than you care about yourself.
THOMAS
How can you still praise
me after what happened...
GABI
Because...you've touched
me like no man has ever been able to before.
All the other men in my life treated me like dirt. My dad, my husband... But you made me feel
like I mattered. Like someone cared...
THOMAS
But I lied to you...
GABI
Somehow it doesn't really seem
to matter.
THOMAS
It does to me,
though. You were so trusting and I took
advantage of it.
GABI
The only thing you did was
help me.
THOMAS
I don't really see
how. After last night, I feel that I've
done more harm than good.
GABI
There was so much honesty
last night. I think it made up for all
the lying in a way. I came to you
hurting and you cared for me. Last night,
I simply did the same for you.
(Pause)
THOMAS
How long did you stay with
me last night?
GABI
All night.
THOMAS
(Worried)
We didn't...I mean I don't
remember...did we?
GABI
No. I was just there holding you.
THOMAS
(Starting to remember)
I think I...remember
crying.
GABI
I rocked you to sleep in
my arms.
THOMAS
Did you sing?
GABI
A little.
THOMAS
"Jesus loves
me."
GABI
Yes.
(Long pause. They
are lost in their own thoughts.
THOMAS thoughts are pleasant. GABI's are also,
but not as much.
JOHNNY bursts in through door L)
JOHNNY
Thomas!
(Sees them)
Gabi? I thought
you'd...
(Sees coffee)
Could I have some coffee?
GABI
(Gets up)
Help yourself.
(To THOMAS)
I think I'll take a quick
shower.
(Kisses him on cheek.
JOHNNY is very confused.
She exits to bathroom and closes door)
THOMAS
(Smiles)
What can I do for you,
Johnny?
JOHNNY
(Goes for coffee)
Man, you was so stinkin' drunk last night.
I figured Gabi woulda
thrown you right out of here. Or at
least leave you.
THOMAS
Sometimes women are hard
to figure out.
JOHNNY
(Sits)
Sometimes? Try, all the time. Betty was so mad at me last night for puking
on the rug, she threw me in the shower, clothes and all, and ran cold water on
me til I sobered up.
She coulda drowned me.
THOMAS
Maybe we shouldn't drink
so much while watching football.
JOHNNY
Yeah. I wonder who won that game last night anyway.
THOMAS
Beats me. I hate football.
(Points to paper on table)
There's the paper if you
want to look.
JOHNNY
(Looks for sports)
I had a bet on that game.
THOMAS
I never bet on
football. The odds are never that good.
JOHNNY
(Upset. Jumping up)
Oh, man! Miami won!
They never win.
THOMAS
See what I mean?
JOHNNY
And you cleaned me out
last night. Betty's gonna
kill me.
THOMAS
Maybe God's trying to tell
you something.
JOHNNY
I doubt it. God stopped talking to me long ago. We kind of have a mutual understanding. I don't bug him and he don't bug me.
THOMAS
Maybe God forgot.
JOHNNY
Probably.
(Remembers something)
Hey, didn't you need my
help with somethin' around here?
THOMAS
I did?
(Thinks)
Oh, yeah. The hinge on one of the big doors between the
chapel and forayer came lose. I need
some help replacing it.
JOHNNY
No pra-blemo. Johnny's Home Repair Service is now on
duty. Now I can get some of that
gambling money back.
THOMAS
You better not charge me
too much.
JOHNNY
I've made it a strict policy
not to overcharge anyone that knows where I live. I'll go take a look at it while you get
dressed.
THOMAS
(Gets up)
Okay. Sounds good.
JOHNNY
You got a new hinge yet?
THOMAS
I picked one up yesterday.
(Goes upstairs)
I'll be down in a minute.
(Exits to bedroom.
JOHNNY takes coffee and exits
to chapel ULC. Knock
at door L. Again. GABI
appears in robe and towel on her head)
GABI
Thomas? Can you get that?
(Knock)
Where did he go?
(Knock louder)
THOMAS
Gabi? Can you get
the door? I'm changing.
GABI
(To self)
And I'm wet.
(Answers door. It's
the little girl SANDY)
Hi, Sandy.
Can I help you with something?
SANDY
Is Pastor Thomas here?
GABI
(Kindly)
Sure, honey. Come on in.
He's upstairs changing.
(SANDY looks at GABI oddly)
Is there something wrong?
SANDY
How come you don't have
any clothes on?
GABI
(Nervous. Calls)
Thomas! You have a visitor!
THOMAS
(Off)
Who is it?!
GABI
It's Sandy!
THOMAS
(Hurried)
I'll be right down.
(SANDY looks at GABI with a critical eye)
GABI
It seem like and Pastor
Thomas are pretty good friends. You must
think he's pretty neat?
SANDY
(Nods)
Do you?
GABI
Yes, we're very close.
SANDY
Are you gonna marry him?
GABI
(Blushes)
I...I don't know,
Sandy. We haven't really talked about
it.
SANDY
Pastor Thomas needs a
wife.
GABI
Does he?
SANDY
(Very seriously)
Yes, every man needs a
wife to take care of him.
GABI
(Laughs)
Where did you hear that?
SANDY
From my grandma.
GABI
Well, your grandmother is
a wise woman.
(THOMAS comes down quickly and nervously)
THOMAS
Hi, Sandy. What do you need?
SANDY
I just wanted to say
"hi."
THOMAS
Does your mom know you're
here?
SANDY
Sort of.
THOMAS
Sort of?
SANDY
She's at work.
THOMAS
Is anyone watching you?
(She shakes her head no)
Why don't you stay here
and visit awhile then? Johnny and I
could use the extra help with fixing the door.
SANDY
Okay.
THOMAS
Would you call your mom
first though and tell her where you are?
SANDY
She won't care.
THOMAS
Please, Sandy. I would feel better if you did.
SANDY
(Sighs)
All right.
(She gets out number from pocket. Goes to phone)
THOMAS
After you call, you can
come help Johnny and me.
(THOMAS goes ULC and into chapel. SANDY dials.
Looks for THOMAS.
He's gone. She hangs up)
GABI
Aren't you going to call?
SANDY
Mom will get mad at me if
I do.
GABI
Why?
SANDY
She doesn't like me to
come here.
GABI
How come?
SANDY
I don't know.
GABI
Well...why don't you just
go and help Pastor Thomas then. We
wouldn't want to make your mama mad.
SANDY
(Hugs GABI)
Thank you.
GABI
(Surprised at hug)
You're welcome.
SANDY
You're nice. I think you should marry Pastor Thomas.
GABI
Hurry up and go help. They're waiting for you.
SANDY
Okay.
(She skips upstage to chapel and exits. GABI
smiles and rubs her ring finger unconsciously as
the lights fade to black)
Scene 10
(Lights come up on GABI making sandwiches. THOMAS
enters from chapel)
GABI
I'm making sandwiches for
everyone.
THOMAS
Just make one for me. Johnny and Sandy took off after we were done.
(Goes to bathroom to wash hands)
GABI
(Calls after him)
The sandwiches are kind of
boring.
THOMAS
(Off)
That's okay.
GABI
They're ham and swiss.
THOMAS
(Off)
Sounds good.
GABI
I wanted to make them a
little more exciting though, but all I could find to put on them was
mayonnaise. The tabasco
sauce disappeared.
(THOMAS returns)
THOMAS
(Lying)
That's strange. I wonder what happened to it. You sure you didn't use it all up?
GABI
Maybe. I didn't think so though.
(Gives THOMAS his sandwich)
Here you go.
THOMAS
(He sits)
Thanks.
(Bites)
Hey, this is pretty good.
GABI
It's not too boring?
THOMAS
It's perfect. I kinda like
boring.
GABI
Well, good. 'Cause I can give you plenty of that.
THOMAS
Boy, Sandy sure took a
liking to you.
GABI
What makes you say that?
THOMAS
She talked and talked
about you when Johnny and I were working.
And I couldn't believe how many questions she asked me about you. She thinks we should get married.
GABI
(Laughs)
She told me that too.
THOMAS
She's a funny girl.
GABI
Her mom isn't around much
though is she?
THOMAS
No, and when she is, Sandy
is usually ignored.
GABI
Poor girl. That's almost cruel.
THOMAS
I don't think Sandy was
planned.
GABI
But still, her mother
shouldn't take it out on her.
THOMAS
I've tried talking to her
mother about it, but she won't listen to me.
She thinks males are a lower form of animal or something.
(GABI laughs, catches herself. He is annoyed)
Did I say something funny?
GABI
Don't take it so hard,
Thomas. You're only human...
THOMAS
Though not as human as a
woman.
GABI
Exactly.
(Knock at door L, THOMAS gets up, goes to door)
THOMAS
I wonder who that is?
(Opens door. BETTY
enters)
Hi, Betty.
BETTY
Johnny told me Gabi was still here.
GABI
(Smiles)
Hi, Betty.
THOMAS
Why shouldn't she still be
here?
BETTY
Unless you sobered up a
lot between our house and yours, I shouldn't have to say why.
THOMAS
Maybe I'll leave you two
ladies alone to talk. I need a shower
anyway.
(Exits to bathroom)
BETTY
(When THOMAS is gone)
I thought for sure you'd
leave him.
GABI
Well, it's not like Thomas
threw up on the rug or anything.
BETTY
Did Johnny tell you that?
GABI
I overheard the boys
talking.
BETTY
But I'm married to
Johnny. I have to keep him around. But you're free to do as you please.
GABI
I was going to leave him,
even before he got back. I had my
suitcase packed and I was ready to go.
BETTY
What happened? I would think him coming in drunk would have
clinched it for you.
GABI
(Lost in thought)
He said the right things I
guess.
BETTY
What are you talking
about? The man was drunk.
GABI
(Still lost)
He kissed me.
BETTY
This sounds like a bad
romance novel.
GABI
He hadn't kissed me
before.
BETTY
Men will do a lot of
things when they're drunk. I suppose you
slept with him too.
GABI
No, I just stayed and held
him all night.
BETTY
(Pause)
You're weird, Gabi. You're really,
really weird.
GABI
(Annoyed)
What makes you say that?
BETTY
I don't know...
GABI
(Angry)
Why, do you think I should
have slept with him?
BETTY
No...it's just that...
GABI
Or should I have gone off
and let him lie there on the floor all night.
BETTY
Sounds good to me.
GABI
That man cares about me
Betty. He's the first man to ever feel
that way toward me and you want me to throw it all away.
BETTY
You'd be a lot better off
without any man.
GABI
But he's not just any
man. There's something special about
him.
BETTY
Yeah, for how long?
GABI
Ya' know. I don't
know if I care. Better a few moments of
happiness, than none at all.
BETTY
You're sounding like a
greeting card again.
GABI
Don't you get it, Betty. No man has ever made me truly happy
before.
(Looks pointedly at BETTY)
And no woman for that
matter. I just want a little happiness
for once in my life...even if it is for a little while.
BETTY
(After long pause.
Coldly)
Whatever you do is up to
you.
(Starts to exit.
Stops)
Don't you come crying when
it's all over though. I don't want to
hear it.
(Exits L. GABI is
very upset)
THOMAS
(Enters)
I heard the door slam.
(Sees GABI concerned)
Are you okay?
GABI
(Crying)
No.
THOMAS
(Concerned. Goes to
her and holds her)
What happened? What did she say?
GABI
It's not important.
THOMAS
You sure?
GABI
Yes.
THOMAS
Do you want me to leave
you alone?
GABI
No. Please, will you hold me for awhile.
(He holds her, strokes her hair. Lights fade to
black)
Scene 11
(Lights come up on GABI.
She sits at the table
sadly. THOMAS comes
in door L with a flower)
THOMAS
(Gives her flower)
I brought you something.
GABI
(Smiles sadly)
Thank you.
(Takes it and smells it)
THOMAS
(Sits)
Is something wrong?
GABI
I called my mother in
Florida.
THOMAS
Is she okay? Did something happen to her?
GABI
She's doin'
fine.
THOMAS
Was she happy to hear from
you?
GABI
She was tickled to death.
THOMAS
Was she upset that you
left your husband?
GABI
Not one bit. She never liked him very much, ya' know.
THOMAS
Then what's bothering
you? You look so sad.
GABI
She wants me to come stay
with her.
THOMAS
(Upset)
Oh.
(Long pause. Turns
away)
Are you going?
GABI
Of course. I have to.
THOMAS
But, you could...
GABI
There's no other way. I should be with my mother, not here.
THOMAS
I don't see why...
GABI
I have to go, Thomas.
THOMAS
But I thought we had
something...maybe I was wrong...
GABI
(Goes to him)
No. I think maybe we do...but I don't know. I'm so confused right now. I just left my husband and you're the first
man...
THOMAS
I wasn't feeling pity or
handing out charity. I've really come to
care about you. I can't let you go.
GABI
I don't know if this is
right. I need time to think, to spread
my wings a little. I've never been alone
before. I need a little time to myself.
(THOMAS is crushed.
He moves away. Silence)
THOMAS
How are you going to get
there? You don't have any money.
GABI
My mother had some money
in saving for emergencies. And I'll sell
my car. It'll be enough to get me
through.
THOMAS
(Monotone)
When are you leaving?
GABI
Sunday. Early afternoon. I wanted to stay for your service.
THOMAS
That's very thoughtful of
you.
GABI
I was hoping you wouldn't
take this so hard.
THOMAS
(Explodes)
Why shouldn't I be
upset?! Where were you these last few
days? Didn't they mean anything to you?
GABI
Please, Thomas. This wasn't an easy choice.
THOMAS
Well, I'm glad. I wouldn't want it to be too easy for you.
GABI
I was hoping you wouldn't
be so upset.
THOMAS
So upset? And why shouldn't I be?! I...
(Pause. Silence)
I thought you loved me.
(They stare at each other.
She wants so badly to
say she loves him. He
wants so badly for her to
say it. Something in
her stops her. He gives up
and goes for the door L)
GABI
Where are you going?
THOMAS
Johnny's.
GABI
Thomas. I didn't mean for you to...
(THOMAS exits and slams the door. She is hurt and
doesn't know what to do.
Lights fade to black)
Scene 12
(Lights come up on JOHNNY standing and THOMAS
sitting at table)
JOHNNY
Why are you lettin' her go, man?
I thought you were hot for her.
THOMAS
I'm not "hot" for
her Johnny. I think I love her. There's a difference.
JOHNNY
If you say so, man.
THOMAS
At least I thought there
was difference, but maybe I was wrong.
JOHNNY
Why are you so stuck on
her? There's other women out there who'd
go for you...
THOMAS
Because Gabi's special. I
know that sounds sappy or overly romantic, but it's true.
JOHNNY
Then don't let her go.
THOMAS
It's not that simple.
JOHNNY
Sure it is, man. Just stand up to her and say...
(A tough guy pose)
"Hey, babe. You're staying."
THOMAS
Yeah, and have her punch
me out.
JOHNNY
I still think you should
do it. Sometimes you just got to take
control.
THOMAS
Try telling that to Betty.
JOHNNY
I'm more in control than
it looks.
THOMAS
That's not what Betty
says.
JOHNNY
Well, she's way off.
THOMAS
I'll ask her next time
she's over.
JOHNNY
No, that's okay, man. You don't need to. It's an unspoken dominance. You know how that goes.
THOMAS
So much for macho.
JOHNNY
Hey, man. That's the way to keep her, but if you want
to let her go, fine, let her go.
THOMAS
But I don't know what else
to do.
JOHNNY
Then stop her.
THOMAS
(Stands, goes to kitchen)
I feel like we're going in
circles.
JOHNNY
That's 'cause you ain't willin' to go nowhere.
THOMAS
(Gets glass)
What do you want me to
do? Go up to her, grunt a little, and
then beat her over the head.
JOHNNY
Sure. Why not?
It works for football players.
THOMAS
(Pours iced tea)
I'm a pastor, not a
lineman.
JOHNNY
Since when did you start
drinking iced tea?
THOMAS
It's the only thing I seem
to be able to keep down.
JOHNNY
Something wrong with you,
man?
THOMAS
Ever since Monday night,
every time I even catch a whiff of alcohol, I throw up. I can't even get near it.
JOHNNY
You did down a lot of it
Monday. I never thought it would do that
to a guy.
THOMAS
It's probably just
psychological. I've never been that sick
after drinking before. It must have
really got to me.
JOHNNY
Hey, I wonder if that
works with vegetables. Betty's always stuffin' those things into me like crazy. I wish I had a dog to give 'em to. But it
probably wouldn't want them either.
THOMAS
You're worse than a little
kid.
JOHNNY
I thought when I grew up I
wouldn't have to put up with that vegetable stuff anymore. Betty put a stop to that.
THOMAS
Why don't you just say
"hey, babe. No more veggies."
JOHNNY
Hey, man. I don't have to put up with this.
THOMAS
What happened to Mr. Tough
Guy?
JOHNNY
He isn't married to Betty
the Barracuda.
(Looks at watch)
I better get going. I'm way behind on my service calls.
THOMAS
I still need to pay you
for the door.
JOHNNY
You'd better include a
good tip too after cleaning me out Monday.
(Goes to door)
See ya',
man.
THOMAS
Take it easy.
(JOHNNY exits.
THOMAS drinks his tea and sits)
CANDY
(Pokes her head in door L)
Hello.
(Enters)
THOMAS
Can't you knock?
CANDY
I never had to knock
before.
THOMAS
What do you want Candy?
CANDY
What do you think?
THOMAS
I'm not up to any games
today, Candy.
CANDY
I hear that your new woman
is leaving you.
THOMAS
Who told you that?
CANDY
My hairdresser.
THOMAS
(Annoyed)
How did she know?
CANDY
From Betty I think or a
friend of Betty's. It's hard to know.
THOMAS
And Betty heard it from
Johnny no doubt. I'm glad everyone is so
well informed in this neighborhood.
CANDY
Why's she leaving you?
THOMAS
I'm surprised you don't
know already.
CANDY
She didn't find out about
dear ol' sis did she?
THOMAS
That among other things.
CANDY
(Goes to him)
I guess that means you'll
be needing some comforting.
(Lays hand on his shoulder)
THOMAS
(Removes her hand)
Stop it, Candy.
CANDY
(Snaps)
What?
(Angry)
What's wrong with you?
THOMAS
(Gets up)
It's not that simple. You can't slither on back in here just like
that.
CANDY
(Hurt)
Why not? She did.
THOMAS
She doesn't slither. You need scales for that.
(She slaps him across the face)
CANDY
You think I'm some sort of
cheap trash don't you?
(THOMAS considers saying yes but doesn't)
Well, I'm not contrary to
popular belief.
(Turns to go, stops)
You meant something to me.
(Looks at him)
You know. The last thing I wanted from you was sex. But I never could make you understand
that. No man ever could. But with you I was hoping it would different. I thought maybe one day you might even start
to care about me.
(GABI comes in chapel door.
She is dressed for
cleaning and is carrying a bucket and brush)
GABI
(After a moment of silence)
I hope I wasn't
interrupting something.
CANDY
Yes, but that's okay. I think I'm through.
(She waits a moment to see if THOMAS will respond
but he doesn't)
Goodbye, Thomas.
(She exits L)
GABI
I'm sorry, Thomas. My timing has always been bad.
THOMAS
Actually, it was quite
good.
(Looks at her)
What's with the bucket?
GABI
Your chapel looked like it
needed a good scrubbing.
THOMAS
You cleaned the whole
thing?
(She smiles and nods)
You didn't have to do
that.
GABI
I wanted to. It was no trouble, really.
(He goes to chapel door and looks in)
THOMAS
(Amazed)
Look at that.
GABI
Is it okay?
THOMAS
I've never seen it so
clean. I could have sworn that wood was
a shade darker than that though. Was it
that dirty?
GABI
It's amazing what a little
dusting can do for a place.
THOMAS
I guess I tend to neglect
the place a bit. I try to vacuum occasionally,
but most of the time I forget.
GABI
That's okay. Most men do.
I think it's an inborn trait or something.
THOMAS
Thank goodness we have
women to watch over us.
GABI
Amen to that.
(Sets cleaning stuff under sink. Pause)
THOMAS
Gabi?
GABI
Yes?
THOMAS
Would you like to go out
and do something tonight?
GABI
Like what?
THOMAS
I don't know. It's Saturday night, so
there's usually always something going on.
Plays, movies...
GABI
It doesn't matter to me.
THOMAS
Are you sure you want to
do something?
GABI
I guess so.
THOMAS
We don't have to. I would understand.
GABI
Do you like to feed ducks?
THOMAS
Sure, I guess so.
GABI
Are there any duck ponds
nearby?
THOMAS
There's a nice park on the
south side with one.
GABI
Would that be okay?
THOMAS
Why not? I always like trying something new.
(She seems a bit sad)
Are you sure this is okay?
GABI
(Nods)
I'll need to change first.
(Starts upstairs)
I won't be long.
(THOMAS smiles and sits at table looking through
the paper for a movie just in case. Lights fade
to black)
Scene 13
(Night. Lights come
up. THOMAS unlocks door L.
He and Gabi enter. They both are happy)
GABI
Thank you for a nice
evening.
THOMAS
Are you sure you liked the
movie? It was kind of weird.
GABI
It had some entertainment
value.
THOMAS
Yeah, I didn't like it
either.
GABI
I really did enjoy myself
though.
THOMAS
I did too.
(They look at each other a moment)
GABI
I guess I'd better get
some sleep.
THOMAS
Okay.
GABI
You should get to bed soon
too. You have a service to give
tomorrow.
THOMAS
I still have some
preparing to do.
GABI
We shouldn't have gone out
tonight if you had work to do.
THOMAS
No, it's okay. With you leaving tomorrow, I wanted to go and
do something together.
GABI
I hope you won't be up too
late.
THOMAS
No, it's basically all up
here.
(Points to head)
I just need to put it into
words.
GABI
(Pause)
Thomas?
THOMAS
Yes?
GABI
(Pause)
I could sleep on the couch
tonight, so you could sleep better.
THOMAS
I'll be fine down here.
GABI
If you're sure. I don't mind.
THOMAS
I've gotten pretty used to
the couch by now. I'll be fine.
GABI
Okay. Goodnight.
(She looks at him, smiles)
THOMAS
(Returns her smile)
Goodnight, Gabi.
(GABI goes upstairs.
THOMAS sits at table with
his Bible and notepaper.
She stands at top of
stairs looking at him sorrowfully)
GABI
(After a long moment, she whispers)
I love you, Thomas.
(But he doesn't hear.
She exits sadly to bedroom.
THOMAS stops suddenly as if something has tapped
his shoulder. He
turns curiously around and looks
up at bedroom.
Confused, he turns back to Bible
and returns to his work.
Lights fade to black)
Scene 14
(Late morning.
Lights come up on THOMAS entering
from chapel. Church
music - "Amazing Grace" - is
heard when door is open.
THOMAS is overjoyed with
his sermon)
THOMAS
Thank you, God.
WALTERS
(Knocks as she enters from
chapel)
Pastor Thomas?
THOMAS
Yes, Mrs. Walters. Come in.
WALTERS
(Looks at him closely)
You feeling okay?
THOMAS
Yes, I think so.
WALTERS
You seem a little
different today.
THOMAS
Is that good or bad?
WALTER
Good I think.
THOMAS
Well, I'll tell you Mrs.
Walters, these last too weeks have been something.
WALTERS
Yes, I heard.
THOMAS
Does everyone know?
WALTERS
I wouldn't know. I don't approve of gossip.
THOMAS
That's good. I wish everyone around here were as ethical.
WALTERS
The shepherd is always
followed by his flock.
THOMAS
Can I help you with
something, Mrs. Walters?
WALTERS
I hear your new friend is
leaving.
THOMAS
I'm afraid so.
WALTERS
You seem very fond of her.
THOMAS
I am.
WALTERS
She seems like a nice girl. Much nicer
than that Candy.
THOMAS
Mrs. Walters? Is there a point to this?
WALTERS
Why are you young people always so impatient?
THOMAS
We're in a hurry I guess.
WALTERS
In a hurry to no where.
THOMAS
Did you come back here to
abuse me?
WALTERS
No, I came with a bit of
advice. There's an old saying that isn't
used much anymore. It's "if you
love something set it free..."
THOMAS
"If it's yours it
will come back to you. If it doesn't, it
never was."
WALTERS
You know it then.
THOMAS
It was a song a few years
back.
WALTERS
(Nods)
I'm glad to hear every bit
of wisdom hasn't been lost.
(Starts to leave)
THOMAS
Are you leaving?
WALTERS
I've said what I wanted to.
THOMAS
That's it then?
WALTERS
Think about it,
Thomas. It's not such a bad idea. It's not easy, but there really isn't any
other way.
THOMAS
(Starting to let it sink in)
I wish there were some
other way.
WALTERS
Not if you want a good
answer. There are always different ways
of doing things. But some are better
than others.
THOMAS
Thank you, Mrs. Walters.
WALTERS
I'll see you next Sunday.
(She exits L. THOMAS
is lost in thought. GABI
appears at top of stairs.
THOMAS notices her)
THOMAS
Do you need any help?
GABI
No, I got it.
(She crosses to table and sets her suitcase down
flat on table)
That was a beautiful
sermon today. It was even better than
last week's. You really brought some new
meaning into the resurrection of Lazarus that I've never seen before. I think you really spoke to some people
today.
THOMAS
I felt really good about
it. Better than I've felt in a long
time.
(Pause)
I see you're all packed.
GABI
Yes. I think I have everything.
(Opens suitcase and checks)
THOMAS
Did you check the
bathroom?
GABI
Yes. I might check upstairs again though.
(Closes suitcase)
THOMAS
Is Betty still giving you
a ride to the station?
GABI
Yes.
THOMAS
Do you have a little time
before she comes? I wanted to say
something before you leave.
GABI
Maybe a short while. I'll run upstairs and take one last look then
we can talk. I'll be quick.
(She runs upstairs.
THOMAS is upset. He looks
sadly at suitcase.
He remembers something. He
glances upstairs.
Then crosses quickly to Bible
and takes his gambling money out. He looks at
money in the envelope.
Then quickly puts it in
her suitcase. He
closes the suitcase slowly and
sadly. Knock at door
L. THOMAS becomes angry and
upset. Knock
again. THOMAS sadly goes and
answers door. JOHNNY
and BETTY enter)
THOMAS
You're early.
BETTY
I don't want her to miss
her train.
JOHNNY
(Aside to THOMAS)
I tried to stall her but
she was so hot on goin' I couldn't stop her.
BETTY
Quit dragging your feet
Johnny and take that suitcase out to the car.
JOHNNY
How come I have to get it?
BETTY
Because you're a
gentleman.
JOHNNY
What happened to women's
lib and carrying your own suitcases?
BETTY
Just do it, Johnny.
JOHNNY
(Gets suitcase)
I don't know why I let
myself be bossed around like this.
BETTY
Hurry up or we'll miss Gabi's train.
JOHNNY
(Exits)
I'm goin'. Keep your wig on.
BETTY
Is Gabi
ready?
THOMAS
I think so. I'll call her.
(Goes to bottom of stairs)
Gabi!
GABI
(Comes out. Sees
BETTY)
You're early.
BETTY
I don't want you to miss
your train.
GABI
Okay, I'll be there in a
minute.
BETTY
Johnny carried out your
suitcase already.
(Pause)
We're all set.
GABI
Could I have a minute,
please Betty?
(Comes down)
BETTY
I'll start the car.
(Exits. Pause. GABI and THOMAS look at each
other a moment)
GABI
Goodbye, Thomas.
(Pause)
Wish me well on my
trip. It'll be a long one. And I've never been on a train before. But I refuse to fly anymore with the way them
things have been going down lately.
(Pause. THOMAS looks
away)
Thomas?
(Pause)
What's wrong?
(Pause)
Please say something. I don't want to say goodbye like this.
THOMAS
I wish we didn't have to
say goodbye at all.
GABI
Thomas. I'm sorry that it has to be this way but...I don't
know what else I can do.
THOMAS
You're free to do as you
please, Gabi.
I'm not stopping you.
GABI
(Pause)
Thank you for all you've
done for me. I don't think anyone else
would have gone to so much trouble for me.
THOMAS
It was worth it.
GABI
Goodbye, Thomas.
THOMAS
Goodbye, Gabi.
(He is looking away.
She wants to give him a
kiss, but decides that she better not. She turns
sadly and exits L.
THOMAS is almost in tears.
JOHNNY enters with something in his jacket)
JOHNNY
There they go.
(THOMAS closes his eyes)
What's with you, man?
THOMAS
What do you think?
JOHNNY
Lighten up, man.
(Takes wine bottle out of bag that was in his
coat)
I got a little surprise
for you.
THOMAS
No, thanks, Johnny.
JOHNNY
Come on, man, it's your
favorite. I forked out a lot for this.
THOMAS
I don't think it would sit
too well right now.
JOHNNY
(Goes to kitchen)
I'll just pour you a
little bit and you can try some. If it
sits well then I'll pour you some more.
If not, then I'll drink it.
(Sets glass in front of THOMAS. Pours some)
A little wine might be all
you need. It'll perk you right up or at
least get you so smashed you won't know what to think.
THOMAS
Do you think she'll come
back?
JOHNNY
Beats me. Women are pretty hard to figure sometimes.
THOMAS
Why did I ever let her go?
JOHNNY
There's the phone,
man. Call the train station. Leave a message for her. It ain't too late.
THOMAS
It's out of my hands now.
JOHNNY
I don't see why you can't
stop her.
THOMAS
She needs to decide for
herself. I can't do it for her.
JOHNNY
Yeah. No guy's ever been able to stop a woman once
she's got her mind made up. I should
know.
THOMAS
I want so badly to stop
her, but I know I can't. If it's meant
to be, it's meant to be. But if not,
I'll just have to deal with it somehow.
JOHNNY
Until then, drink up. It'll help you take your mind off of her.
THOMAS
I wish she were that easy
to forget.
JOHNNY
Man, you're really are
stuck on her.
THOMAS
There's something about
her, Jonny...something she does for me that I can't
explain, but I know it's good...something that anyone in their right mind
wouldn't give up. It's not sex and it
might be something even more than just love.
Gabi gave me something no else has been able
to. She gave me a new chance in
life. A new beginning. But I'm not sure where I should go from here. Some choices are easier than others. But if I could have anything, I know it would
be Gabi.
(Has stood and wanders to door)
JOHNNY
Call her.
THOMAS
Don't you see,
Johnny. I can't. She has to want to come back. Forcing her to return wouldn't mean anything.
JOHNNY
But you love her.
THOMAS
But I have to know for
sure that she loves me.
JOHNNY
Then you'll just have to
sit here and wait.
(Brings him his drink)
So until then, drink
up. It'll make you feel better.
THOMAS
(Sniffs drink. The smell
doesn't bother him. He
paces DL and looks out a window that faces the
audience. He crosses him arms, still holding his
glass. The lights
gradually fade except for a
light coming from that DL window. The wood that
holds the panes of glass in place form a huge
shadowy cross that falls on him. Tears appear in
his eyes)
She's really gone.
(Lights fade to black)
END OF PLAY