In This Life
by Jennifer
Episodes 11 - 15
EPISODE 11
SCENE 1
EXT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S NEW HOUSE - DAY (A FEW DAYS AFTER EPISODE 10)
JACK, JENNIFER, and ABBY are moving into their new house. They are dressed in casual clothing: JACK is wearing jeans and a light blue button-down shirt, JENNIFER is wearing a white t-shirt and overalls, and ABBY is wearing a pink t-shirt and jeans. BO, HOPE, and SHAWN-D are helping them move into the house, but have not yet arrived.
JACK, JENNIFER, and ABBY are walking up the pathway. ABBY excitedly breaks away from both her parents and runs up to the door.
ABBY: Oh Mommy, it's so beautiful! It looks just like my dollhouse!
JENNIFER: (happy that ABBY is so excited) I'd love to take all the credit, baby, but actually... (looks at JACK) Daddy was the one who found this house.
JACK: (slightly embarrassed, trying to pass it off as no big deal) Well, I made sure to give the broker my list of requirements. It had to be in a good neighborhood, near a good school, have plenty of room for a child to run around in, and of course, before she could even think of showing us a house, it had to pass the ultimate test: (with mock seriousness) it had to look like your dollhouse.
ABBY: (laughing) You're so funny, Daddy...
JENNIFER smiles as she watches him with ABBY, confident she made the right decision to suggest this arrangement.
ABBY: (noticing the garden) Can I go exploring over there?
JACK: Of course... But, just make sure you can stay where Mommy and I can see you, all right?
ABBY runs off, leaving JACK and JENNIFER alone on the porch. Neither of them know what to say to each other, although it is clear both of them are happy that the other is here.
JENNIFER: (after some silence) She looks really happy, doesn't she?
JACK: (smiles to himself as he sees ABBY pick flowers in the garden) Yes... she does...
JACK is still torn. He is glad that ABBY is so happy, but he is also worried that she may get the wrong idea and assume he and JENNIFER are getting back together, and he does not want to get her hopes up when he does not know if that will happen.
JENNIFER: Penny for your thoughts...
JACK turns back to her in surprise.
SCENE 2
IN PROGRESS
JENNIFER has just asked JACK what he is thinking about at that moment. JACK is taken by surprise and a bit flustered.
JACK: (trying to cover up his nervousness) A penny? Jennifer, I should hope my thoughts are worth more than that.
JENNIFER: (knowing full-well he is using humor to hide his discomfort) All right. Name your price then, Mr. Deveraux...
JACK: Jennifer, I-
ABBY runs back to where they are, interrupting them, much to JACK'S relief.
JACK: (to himself) Saved by the child...
ABBY: (carrying flowers) Look Mommy, I picked these just for you!
JENNIFER: (bending down to take them from ABBY) Oh, that is so sweet of you, baby... (kisses her) I have the most thoughtful little girl in the world, do you know that?
ABBY: (proudly) It's my thank you to you and Daddy.
JENNIFER: (looks up at JACK, then at ABBY) A thank you for what, baby?
ABBY: For making my wish come true.
CLOSE-UP on JACK and JENNIFER looking at each other.
SCENE 3
IN PROGRESS
ABBY has just thanked JACK and JENNIFER for making her wish come true.
ABBY: I made a wish that we could be a family again, Mommy. And now we are, just like I dreamed we would be...
JENNIFER is looking to JACK for help in what to say to ABBY. She does not want to say the wrong thing and give ABBY false hope about them, although she herself would like to believe she and JACK still have a chance to work things out between them.
JENNIFER: (softly) I'm glad your wish came true, baby.
JACK: (bending down to ABBY now too) Mommy and I will always try our best to make sure all your wishes come true, Abigail. I hope you know that.
JENNIFER: That's right--Daddy's right. We want you to always be happy, no matter what.
ABBY: I am, now that you and Daddy have made up.
JACK and JENNIFER look nervously at each other.
JACK: (clears throat) Well, princess, what do you say we go exploring inside?
ABBY: (excitedly) Okay! Can I go pick out my room?
JACK: Absolutely! Come on, let's go...
JENNIFER watches JACK and ABBY enter the house. Before he goes in, JACK turns around to give JENNIFER a look of relief at having been able to distract ABBY.
JENNIFER: (to herself, as JACK and ABBY enter the house) Now that you wishes have come true, Abby, maybe there's still a little bit of magic left for mine too...
SCENE 4
INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S FOYER - LATER
BO, HOPE, SHAWN-D, and J.T. have joined JACK, JENNIFER, and ABBY and are helping them move things in. BO sees JACK carrying a large box and worries that JACK may wear himself out since he is probably still weak from his treatments.
BO: (taking the box from JACK) Here, Jack, let help you out with that...
JACK: (immediately defensive) It's all right, I've got it...
BO: No, really, I don't mind, I-
JACK: (firmly) I've got it. (a little less harshly) I've got it, Bo. Thanks.
BO does not want to push, so he just nods and lets JACK handle it. JENNIFER sees the exchange and when JACK is out of earshot, she goes to talk to BO.
JENNIFER: I'm sorry about that, Bo. He just... He doesn't want anyone feeling sorry for him right now...
BO: It's all right, Jen, don't worry about it. I understand. (calls out to SHAWN-D) Son, would you come here for a second?
SHAWN-D: What's up, Pop?
BO: (watching JACK to make sure he doesn't hear) Do me a favor... Go and grab some of the bigger boxes from the car, all right? Jack really shouldn't be pushing himself right now, but I don't want to put him on the spot about it, so just make sure to get them before he does...
SHAWN-D: Will do...
JENNIFER: Thanks, Bo. I really appreciate that.
BO: (winks) No problem.
HOPE comes in with ALICE and JULIE.
HOPE: Hey, look who I found wandering around outside?
JENNIFER: Grandma! Julie! You guys didn't have to come and help...
JULIE: Help? Darling, we're not here to do the manual labor--are we, Grandma? We come bearing gifts...
JULIE shows JENNIFER the bags they are carrying. Inside are pots and pans and other kitchen utensils and food for the cupboards and refrigerator.
JACK: (sees what they have brought and is touched by their generosity) This was very nice of you... Thank you...
JULIE smiles at him. She feels bad about what he is going through and gives him a hug.
JULIE: You're welcome, darling. (whispers to him) We're here to help. In any way. (she squeezes his hand)
ALICE: And for a certain little girl, I brought a special treat...
ABBY is playing with J.T. and suddenly hears her name. She runs into the foyer excitedly.
ALICE: (showing off a plate covered with aluminum foil) Here you go, Abigail, fresh donuts. I just made them this morning.
ABBY: Oh Great-gram, my favorite! (to JENNIFER) Mommy, is it okay have one right now?
JENNIFER: Sure, baby. But just one for now, all right? We'll save the rest for later.
HOPE taps JENNIFER on the shoulder and pulls her aside.
HOPE: So... how are you right now?
JENNIFER looks at JACK, who is having donuts with ABBY then turns to HOPE. CLOSE-UP on JENNIFER as she faces HOPE.
SCENE 5
IN PROGRESS
HOPE is concerned about JENNIFER has just asked her how she is.
HOPE: I know you were really nervous about whether this would work our or not... How are you? Everything going well so far?
JENNIFER: Yeah... Yeah, so far everything's good. (she looks over at JACK and ABBY) Look at her, Hope, she's so happy to have us all under one roof. And Jack is so happy to be spending time with her... I did the right thing here. I know I did.
HOPE: (perceptively) Are you trying to convince me or yourself?
JENNIFER: I don't know what you mean...
HOPE: Look, I know you're the one who came up with this idea, Jen. But I get the feeling that you're starting to have doubts now too, about this arrangement.
JENNIFER: (looking at JACK again) I guess I just feel a little guilty, Hope.
HOPE: Guilty? Why?
JENNIFER: (sighing) Because... Maybe I'm not doing this for the right reasons. I tell myself I'm doing this for Abby. Because she misses her daddy and wants to be with him again. And I tell myself I'm doing this for Jack, because he needs to be with her right now with all he's going through...
HOPE: But... you're not sure those are the only reasons you're doing this?
JENNIFER does not answer her right away.
SCENE 6
INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - SAME
JACK is unpacking boxes as JULIE comes up to him.
JULIE: Jack, would you mind giving me a tour of this place?
JACK: Well, I really should get some of these things in place- (realizing this is her way of trying to get him to speak with her alone) Oh... well... I suppose I can do this a little later and show you around first.
JULIE: (smiling) I'd like that, darling.
They link arms and walk about the house, then they walk outside into the garden.
JULIE: (trying carefully to broach the subject) Jack, we've known each other for a long time.
JACK: Yes, we have.
JULIE: And I hope you know that I'm more than just an in-law. I'm also your friend.
JACK: (touched by what she is saying, but not really eager to open up to her) Thank you. That really means a lot to me, Julie.
JULIE: How are you? I mean, how are you dealing with all of this?
JACK: Oh you mean moving? It's a piece of cake, really, I mean, all it takes is calling people who are willing to help-
JULIE: Jack, you know what I meant.
CLOSE-UP on Jack's discomfort.
SCENE 7
CUT TO: JENNIFER AND HOPE
JENNIFER has admitted to HOPE that she feels guilty about this new arrangement and might not be doing this for the right reasons.
HOPE: Jen, you said you felt guilty about this. Why?
JENNIFER: I know how happy this makes Abby. And I see how happy it makes Jack to be around her, but... Hope, part of me is doing this because I want some excuse to be around Jack. (beat) God, that's so selfish, isn't it?
HOPE: No. No, it's not selfish at all. You love him. It's only natural that you want to work things out between you two.
JENNIFER: You know, it's funny. Four weeks ago I was ready to move on with my life without him--for good. And now here we are, and the thought of losing him forever... (tears well up in her eyes)
HOPE: (reaches out to hug her) It's all right, honey... You are not going to lose him. Don't even let yourself think that, okay?
JENNIFER nods weakly.
HOPE: Hey, you see that little girl in there? (points to ABBY who is in the living room, playing with JT) You and I both know how much Jack loves her, right?
JENNIFER: (smiling) Yeah, he does...
HOPE: So you know that Jack would fight this with everything he's got, for her. (beat) And for you.
JENNIFER: (sadly) I don't know about that, Hope...
HOPE: What do you mean you don't know?
JENNIFER: I mean I don't know if I'm... if I'm enough of a reason for him to...
HOPE: I'm sorry, I thought I was talking to Jennifer Horton Deveraux here.
JENNIFER: Hope-
HOPE: But I guess I was wrong, because the Jennifer Deveraux I know would never ever doubt what she means to Jack Deveraux...
JENNIFER: (smiling) All right, I get the hint...
HOPE: (puts her hands on JENNIFER'S arms) When he beats this--and you know he will--then you two going to have nothing standing in your way. I believe that with my whole heart.
JENNIFER: I know you're right, Hope. (beat) I just hope Jack will see that too.
JENNIFER thinks about what HOPE has just said.
SCENE 8
CUT TO: JACK AND JULIE
JULIE is trying to get JACK to open up to her about how he is dealing with things, but JACK is uncomfortable talking to someone about it.
JULIE: It's all right, darling, Abby's inside. She won't hear whatever we talk about out here.
JACK is uncomfortable talking about this, even though he knows JULIE only wants to help. JULIE senses his discomfort, but knows he needs to talk about this.
JULIE: Have you told your family?
JACK: (quietly) Yes, I uh... I talked to Jo the other day. And Adrienne and Kayla as well. (clears throat) But I told them they didn't need to come here for moral support. Jo especially--she's needed there. Adrienne needs her there...
JULIE: Jack, what do you think you're doing?
JACK: I don't know what you mean-
JULIE: You know exactly what I mean, and don't pretend you don't. (beat) We are here for you because we care, Jack. We love you and we don't want to see you going through this alone. When are you going to see that you don't have to do this all by yourself?
JACK: Look, Julie, I appreciate your concern, but-
JULIE: But what? What, you'd rather be the strong, silent type and keep this all to yourself? You'd rather hold it in? (softly) Jack, I know how difficult it's always been for you to reach out to people. But don't do this. Don't shut us out. (beat) Especially Jennifer.
JACK: Jennifer should not have to go through this. She's been through enough pain because of me, and I am not going to put her through any more.
JULIE: But don't you see, Jack, she is in pain from being shut out by you... She loves you. She wants to help you through this. You two stood before us nine years ago and you made a vow to be there in sickness and in health, do you remember that?
JACK: (with great pain) We're not married anymore.
JULIE: You and I both know that is just a legal technicality, Jack. You've been married in your hearts all along, and I know Jennifer is more than willing to keep that vow even today.
JACK can not say anything.
JULIE: Think about what I said. You don't have to go through this alone.
JACK watches her go in and wonders whether she is right.
SCENE 9
INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - LATER
It is now night-time. BO, HOPE, SHAWN-D, J.T., ALICE, and JULIE have all left. JACK is sitting in the living room, surrounded by boxes. There is no furniture yet and he is busy arranging something on the floor as JENNIFER comes down the stairs and comes into the living room.
JENNIFER: She's out like a light.
JACK: Already? She didn't even have dinner yet...
JENNIFER: Oh she had her fill of Grandma's donuts- (suddenly notices what JACK has done) Oh Jack... I can't believe you did this...
JACK has set up a "picnic" for them: he has spread a blanket on the floor and has candles lit, and plates, food, and a chilled bottle of sparkling cider arranged.
JACK: Well, it's not exactly champagne and caviar, but we've got... we've got fried chicken, and potato salad, and biscuits, courtesy of Ms. Williams... (points to the bottle) And we've even got bubbly, although it's... not the real thing, unfortunately. (he is embarrassed that it is not real champagne, because he can not drink during his treatments)
JENNIFER: (reassuring him) It's perfect, Jack.
JACK: (clears throat nervously) I, uh... I thought since our furniture won't make it here until tomorrow, we could make due with an impromptu picnic...
JENNIFER is touched by what he has done and can't believe he went to all this trouble to make their first night at their house so special.
JACK: (noting her silence) So... would you care to join me? Or would you rather call it a night-
JENNIFER: No, no, no... I would love to join you, Jack. (smiles as he takes her hand and leads her down)
JACK takes the bottle of sparkling cider out of the bucket full of ice and pops the cork, then pours some for each of them in the champagne glass.
JENNIFER does not want to break the mood in any way. She knows how what a big deal this must have been for him to do, and she does not want to ruin this moment.
JACK: (softly) You know, this reminds me of another picnic we had a long time ago.
JENNIFER: (knowing exactly which one he's talking about) Yeah, our first night in that apartment-
JACK: (shuddering) That was no apartment, Jennifer. It was a cubicle.
JENNIFER: (smiling) All right, it was a little cramped, but you have to admit that picnic was pretty fun.
JACK: If you call dining on cheese and cracker snack packs and dime-store champagne fun.
JENNIFER: I'm talking about what happened that night, Jack. That was when I told you I was pregnant...
JACK: Yes... (smiling at the memory) And as I recall I gave you quite a scare with my reaction.
JENNIFER: (laughing) Well I admit you didn't exactly take the news as well as I had hoped, but it's a moment I'll never forget...
JACK: (softly) Nor will I...
JACK suddenly gets uncomfortable again at their growing closeness as they reminisce about old times. He tries to change the subject and hands JENNIFER her glass as he holds up his.
JACK: All right, do you want to make the toast, or should I?
JENNIFER: (sensing what he is doing, but going along with it) Well... knowing how long-winded your speeches can get, maybe I should-
JACK: Excuse me? Long-winded? I'll have you know that during my all-too brief political career I was quite the orator.
JENNIFER: (grinning) I'm the one with the broadcast experience, remember?
JACK: Well if you're going to compare credentials...
JENNIFER: I promise I'll make it short and sweet, how about that?
JACK: (rolling his eyes) All right. Go ahead.
They both hold up their glasses and lock eyes as JENNIFER speaks.
JENNIFER: To making wishes, and dreaming big dreams. May they all come true.
JACK and JENNIFER do not take their eyes off one another as they clink glasses.
EPISODE 12
SCENE 1
INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - DAY (THE DAY AFTER EPISODE 11)
JACK is at the desk, working away on his laptop. JENNIFER comes in, after having dropped ABBY off at school. She did not expect him to be home; she knows he had an appointment with DR. PATRICK to find out the results of his first round of treatment and wonders if he has any news. She watches him in silence for a while until JACK senses her presence and looks up at her.
JACK: (a bit flustered because he is surprised to see her) Jennifer! I, uh... I didn't realize... You're back already?
JENNIFER: Yeah, Abby didn't put up too much of a fuss this morning so I managed to get her to school fairly quickly. (beat) I didn't think you'd be back so soon either...
She wants to ask JACK what happened with the doctor, but does not want to push him if he is not ready to talk about it.
JACK: (avoids her eyes, looks back at his laptop) Abigail didn't wonder why I didn't come with you to drop her off, did she?
She notices he is changing the subject. She decides to follow his lead, although she wants to ask him what the doctor said.
JENNIFER: No... No, she didn't... Don't worry, I just told her you needed to do some more things this morning to get the house in order, but we'd both pick her up from school later.
JACK: (relieved) Good, I'm... glad she didn't ask any questions... (looks up at her again) Thank you, Jennifer.
JENNIFER: (smiles to reassure him) Of course.
JACK: (still trying to make small talk to avoid the subject of his doctor's appointment) She's adjusting well, isn't she? At school, I mean? (softly) I know how tough it is to be the new kid in school...
JENNIFER: Oh, she loves her new school already. (smiles thinking of ABBY) You should have seen her today, Jack, with all the friends she's made already...
JACK is quiet for a while, wondering how many more chances he will get to see his daughter grow up. JENNIFER senses his pain and wants to reach out to him.
JENNIFER: Jack... You can-
The doorbell rings.
JACK: (knowing what JENNIFER was about to say and grateful for the excuse to avoid this subject) I'll get that--excuse me...
JENNIFER is frustrated that they've been interrupted just as she was about to broach the subject of what the doctor said. She's terrified that it can't be good news since JACK is so reluctant to talk about it, and she longs to help him through this latest setback.
JACK: Vern!
JENNIFER goes into the foyer and is surprised to see VERN. They exchange amused looks.
JACK: Just the person I was expecting...
OUT on JENNIFER'S look of curiosity.
SCENE 2
IN PROGRESS
VERN has just come to the Deveraux home, and JENNIFER wonders why JACK has invited him over.
JACK: What, cat got your tongue, Vern?
JENNIFER is even more curious now because of the sudden change in JACK'S mood. He seems a little more upbeat now.
VERN: Well, I-
JACK snatches a bulging folder that was tucked under VERN'S arm, taking him by surprise.
JACK: Ah, you did bring it. Thank you, good fellow... (unhooks the latch and opens the folder to take a peek, then smiles to himself and closes it)
VERN is annoyed at what JACK just did, but decides to ignore him.
VERN: (to JENNIFER) Jenny-girl--it's so great to see you again... (he and JENNIFER embrace warmly)
JENNIFER: It's so good to see you too, Vern. I've really missed you. (beat) I'm sorry I haven't had a chance to stop by and visit since I've been back-
VERN: It's all right, Jenny-girl... (squeezes her hand) I understand...
VERN and JENNIFER share a brief silence. It's obvious both of them are thinking of JACK and what he is going through and how much they would like to help him.
JENNIFER: (trying to pull herself together) So what are you two up to now?
VERN: We-
JACK: Really, Jennifer... I would have thought by now that would have learned some patience. (leans into her and gives her a mischievous grin) All will be revealed soon enough. (to VERN) Well, Vern, thank you very much for this, (slaps the folder against his hand) but I wouldn't want to keep you-
JENNIFER smirks at JACK.
JENNIFER: Don't listen to him, Vern--come on in and stay for a bit, okay? (slips her arm through his) I've got some coffee and Grandma made a ton of donuts yesterday as a welcome home gift...
She and VERN make their way inside as JACK tries to protest.
JACK: (as they walk past him) Well, I... Gee, won't you come in, Vern...
JACK lets out an exasperated sigh then closes the door.
SCENE 3
INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - LATER
JENNIFER is in the kitchen, leaving JACK and VERN alone in uncomfortable silence. VERN has been looking at JACK for a few awkward moments now and clearly wants to ask him something. Finally he gets the nerve to say it.
VERN: (with great concern) How are you, Jack?
JACK: (trying to be as nonchalant as possible) I'm fine.
VERN: (not sure if JACK knew what he meant) I meant... I meant, how are you?
JACK: Fine, I said.
VERN: So you're feeling... all right? You're feeling all right?
JACK: (annoyed) Why do you keep saying everything twice? Yes, I am all right, Vern. (sighs) Thank you for asking.
VERN: Well, I just wanted to make sure. You know, with... everything that's going on...
JACK raises an eyebrow.
VERN: ... with... your... (clears throat) you know, your...
JACK: Cancer? You can say it, Vern. Nothing's going to fall out of the sky if you do.
VERN: I know that, Jack, but I just didn't want to say the wrong thing-
JACK: You didn't. But if you don't mind, this isn't really my favorite topic of conversation-
JENNIFER comes back into the room carrying a tray. She has heard the tail end of their conversation but does not say anything. JACK, not knowing how much she has heard, quickly changes the subject.
JACK: (tapping once again on the folder) Thank you again for bringing this, Vern. It's really going to help-
JENNIFER: (setting down the tray in front of them) All right, Jack. The jig is up--what is this all about?
JACK looks back at her with a mysterious grin.
SCENE 4
IN PROGESS
JENNIFER wants to know what JACK is up to.
JENNIFER: Are you going to keep me in suspense? (she looks at VERN, who looks to JACK) All right, that's it-
She reaches for the folder, but JACK snatches it away before she can get to it.
JACK: Jennifer, there's no need for that. (grins at her) Don't you trust me?
JENNIFER smirks.
JACK: (teasing her) I love that you have so much confidence in me...
JENNIFER: Jack-
VERN: I should get going...
JENNIFER: Wait a minute, no you don't! Not you too! Someone is going to tell me what's going on here-
VERN: (pointing at JACK) He's the one to ask, Jenny-girl. I really do need to go, though--I told Kate I wouldn't be gone any longer than an hour to 'run my errand.' (grabs a donut, then kisses JENNIFER on the cheek) Be sure to thank your grandmother for me for this, okay? (to JACK) Take care. And if you ever need anything...
JACK: (nodding) I know where to find you.
VERN smiles and then leaves. JENNIFER turns to JACK and gives him a look of frustration.
JENNIFER: Well?
JACK: Well what?
JENNIFER: Since you managed to chase our friend out before he could tell me what this is all about, are you going to say something, or do I have to go through your pants and look for any secret compartments that may hold the answer?
JACK lets out a small smile, and seeing this, JENNIFER can't help but smile as well.
JACK: Uh, no, that won't be necessary... Look, I really didn't mean to build it up to be such a mystery...
He hands her the folder. JENNIFER opens it up in curiosity and takes out the contents.
JENNIFER: Papers... and... zip disks? (looks at them more carefully) Jack, these are our notes... our articles about Dad's program in Africa?
JACK: (nodding) That's right.
JENNIFER: Why did you ask Vern to bring them over?
JACK: You mean besides keeping souvenir copies for when Abigail is old enough to read them? (JENNIFER smiles) Well, it so happens that I... have a project for us...
OUT on JENNIFER'S surprise.
SCENE 5
IN PROGESS
JACK has just informed JENNIFER of something he has planned for them.
JENNIFER: A project? What kind of a project?
JACK: I, uh... I didn't get a chance to tell you about this when it came about, but it seems Time Life would like us to write a book based on the series of articles we did. In fact they are practically begging for us to do it.
JENNIFER: (excited) Oh Jack, really? That's wonderful!!
She makes a motion to jump in his arms, but stops before she does. JACK notices the almost gesture and smiles.
JACK: They're offering quite an advance. I couldn't give them an answer before, since... well, I couldn't get a hold of you at the time...
JENNIFER feels guilty.
JACK: But they've upped their offer since then. And again, and again. They really want us to do this, Jennifer.
JENNIFER: This is amazing... This is really amazing... We're going to have a book, Jack! (she wants to hug him, but is not sure whether the gesture will be welcome, so she doesn't)
JACK: So you'll do it?
JENNIFER: Yeah, of course I'll do it! I mean... if you can stand working with me again, that is...
JACK: (amused) I think I could try to put up with your idiosyncrasies again for such a venture...
JENNIFER wonders if there is another reason he is so anxious to do this.
JACK: What? What's that look for?
JENNIFER: (shakes her head to dismiss it) Nothing-
JACK: No, Jennifer, that was not a look of 'nothing.' What is it? You have concerns about this?
JENNIFER: No, no, no, that's not it at all!
JACK: Then what is it?
JENNIFER: I just... I guess I'm just surprised about the timing of this, that's all. That we're doing this right now, with... everything that's happening...
JACK: You want to know what the doctor said today.
JENNIFER: (softly) It isn't good news, is it?
JACK sighs.
JACK: The first round of chemotherapy was not enough, apparently. (beat) I start the next round next week. (sad smile) Happy Thanksgiving, huh?
JENNIFER: (torn up inside) Oh, Jack-
JACK: So, it's the perfect time for this endeavor, wouldn't you say?
JENNIFER: Jack, we can put this off for another time... You need to concentrate on beating this-
JACK: (firmly) I need concentrate on something other than red blood cell counts and lymph nodes, Jennifer. I need to do the one thing that makes me feel worthwhile. That's what my work does, it makes me feel worthwhile. So please--will you help me?
JENNIFER: Yes. Yes, of course I will, Jack...
She doesn't know what else she can do or say to help him, but she wants to do this if it makes him happy and takes his mind off things.
JACK: Good. (gives her a smile to reassure her) Partners?
JENNIFER: (smiles back at him) Partners.
EPISODE 13
SCENE 1
INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT (SAME DAY AS EPISODE 12)
JACK and JENNIFER are spread out on the couch, surrounded by stacks of notes and papers and several half-empty boxes of Chinese food takeout. JACK has his sleeves rolled up and is deep in concentration over something on his laptop, while JENNIFER is leaning in close reading along, editing what is on the screen. Both have been so engrossed in what they have been doing that neither has noticed just how closely they have been sitting. It's clear they are both in a comfort zone.
JENNIFER: (pointing to the screen) That word is spelled wrong.
JACK tries to adjust his head to see then finally swats her hand away.
JENNIFER: Right there, (she points again) see it?
JACK: (pulling a face) Jennifer, we're talking about the miracle of spell check. I've run it three times already--this document is error free, I assure you.
JENNIFER: Well technically it's spelled correctly so the spell check wouldn't catch it. But you have 'their' when you should have 'there.'
JACK: Where?
JENNIFER: (exasperated) Right there!
JACK: Oh. (embarrassed laugh) Well, I... (clears throat) I guess I did use the wrong word there, didn't I?
JENNIFER: (grinning) Yeah, I guess you did.
She leans in even closer without realizing it, and JACK does not pull away either. It's obvious that both of them are enjoying the closeness.
JACK: (his breath is a little uneven) So... uh... what about the rest... of the piece?
JENNIFER: (without taking her eyes off him) It's perfect... Just perfect...
Their faces are practically touching now. JACK suddenly realizes what's about to happen and pulls back.
JACK: (clears throat) Uh, perhaps I should run a grammar check too-
JENNIFER: (disappointed that he's backed off again) Why did you do that?
JACK: (feigning ignorance) Well if spell check isn't going to catch these kind of errors-
JENNIFER: No Jack, I meant pull away. (softly) Why did you pull away like that?
JACK is still looking at the laptop. JENNIFER takes his chin in her hand and gently pulls it towards her so he is looking at her.
JENNIFER: Why are you so afraid of this?
JACK can not answer her.
SCENE 2
IN PROGRESS
JACK and JENNIFER had just gotten close while working, but JACK became uncomfortable and pulled away.
JENNIFER: Jack, you didn't answer me. Why are you so afraid of this?
JACK: (laughs nervously) Afraid of what? (gently removes her hand from his face) I just want to get this last section done tonight.
JENNIFER sighs in frustration. On the one hand, she knows that he is going through a lot right now and if she pushes him too far, she will push him away completely, but on the other hand, she wishes he could let her in during this very tough time.
JACK: (feeling guilty that he has to hurt her this way) Look, Jennifer-
ABBY has come down the stairs and walks into the living room. She is dressed in yellow pajamas and is barefoot.
ABBY: Mommy? Daddy?
JENNIFER: (surprised to see ABBY is awake this late) Baby, what are you doing up?
ABBY: (rubbing her eyes, makes her way through the obstacle course to stand by them) I had a bad dream and I couldn't get back to sleep... I heard voices down here, so I came downstairs.
JACK picks her up and places her on his lap. JENNIFER notices how even this simple act seemed to wipe him out and she tries not to wince.
JACK: Well, my brave little miss, why don't you tell us all about your nightmare and then you won't be so scared--then you can get back to sleep...
ABBY: Do I have to go back to sleep?
JACK: As I recall, young lady, we've had this schedule well established since the day we brought you home from the hospital. We wouldn't want to change all of that now out of the blue, would we?
ABBY: (giggling) Can't I stay up with you and Mommy for just a little bit longer? (leans in and gives him a puppy dog look) Please?
JACK starts to protest, then looks to JENNIFER for help, but she is too busy trying to keep from laughing. Finally he gives up and laughs too.
SCENE 3
INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - LATER
JACK comes down the stairs after having taken ABBY, who had fallen asleep not too long after she came down, back to her room.
JENNIFER: (softly so ABBY will not wake up again) Well?
JACK: The fair maiden sleeps once again. (comes to the couch and picks up an empty mug from the coffee table) Warm milk does the trick every time. (picks up the laptop and begins to work again, while JENNIFER watches him) All right, where were we... Ah yes, I was about to run the grammar check- (notices JENNIFER is looking at him, clears his throat) Is... is something wrong?
JENNIFER: No, nothing's wrong...
JACK: Oh... good... (goes back to working, but sees she is still looking at him, looks back up at her)
JENNIFER: You're really great with her, you know that?
JACK: (embarrassed) Well, I...
JENNIFER: I mean it, Jack. You're a wonderful father.
JACK: (genuinely moved by her words) Thank you, Jennifer. That... means a lot, considering...
JENNIFER: Considering what?
JACK: (lets out a small laugh) Let's face it, I have not exactly been father-of-the-year material up till now.
JENNIFER: What are you talking about? You've been great from day one--from that moment you delivered her, Jack.
JACK: (quietly) If that were the case you would have never entertained the thought of keeping sole custody of her.
JENNIFER feels very guilty.
JENNIFER: Jack-
JACK: No, it's all right. You don't have to explain. (sad smile) I know what I've done. I know I can't take some of those things back no matter what happens from here on out. I can never get back those months--all those months I was out of her life...
JENNIFER: (softly) Jack, don't do that. We've spent enough years looking back at the past, giving into regret. (she touches his chin and lifts it so he is looking in her eyes) Don't you think it's time we stopped doing that?
JACK: I... don't know if I can...
JENNIFER: Why not? Why not, Jack?
JACK: Because it's all I've got, Jennifer. Because I don't know how much of a future I have left...
OUT on JENNIFER'S pain as she looks at JACK'S anguish.
SCENE 4
IN PROGRESS
JACK has just admitted to JENNIFER that he wonders how much of a future he still has.
JACK: (somberly) You know, people ask me if I'm afraid of dying. Or if I'm afraid of the chemotherapy... (looks at her) But the truth is, I'm not afraid of any of that. What I'm afraid of... is not living long enough to see my daughter in her first dance recital. Or seeing her skate on the frozen pond at Christmas. Or seeing her graduate from high school. (voice grows very quiet) Or walking her down the aisle... (lets out a laugh) Of course I'm still retaining all veto rights to her choice of husband...
JENNIFER laughs in spite of herself, watches him with great pain, wishing she could take this away from him.
JENNIFER: Jack, I wish I could tell you things will be perfect in the end, but I... I can't do that...
JACK: (touched that she is trying, smiles) I know you do. (returns his attention to the laptop, clears throat) Well, what do you say I run this final grammar check so we can put this chapter behind us?
JENNIFER: I-
The phone rings, surprising both of them.
JENNIFER: I'll get it. (picks up phone) Hello? (beat) Hi! No, no, it's not too late, don't worry... (looks back at JACK, who is looking in curiosity) Um... can you hold on for a second? (to JACK) Why don't I go take this in the kitchen--I won't be too long. That way you can run that grammar check, okay?
JACK: Uh... sure...
JENNIFER smiles and gets up to walk to the kitchen while JACK watches her from the corner of his eye.
JENNIFER: (voice is muffled now that she is in the kitchen) Hi, sorry about that. I'm glad you called... No, I promise, you didn't wake me up. Jack and I were just working on something. Yeah, we're working on a project together. (beat) Oh you can? That's wonderful!! That's perfect...
JACK, who has been listening, strains to hear the next few words now that JENNIFER has lowered her voice even more.
JENNIFER: Oh I'm so glad... All right, so it's all set! Good. (beat) Thank you. Okay, bye...
JENNIFER walks back into the living room. JACK quickly goes back to typing, trying to pretend he wasn't listening.
JACK: (casually) Who was that calling so late?
JENNIFER: (as nonchalantly as she can) Oh, it was... Mike...
JACK knows she is lying.
JACK: Mike?
JENNIFER: Mmm hmm... He's in Israel, remember? Visiting Jeremy? Anyway, he wanted to call to let me know that he's sending something special for Grandma for Thanksgiving...
JACK: (wonders what she is hiding, but decides to pursue it in the morning) Well, I think I'll call it a night.
JENNIFER: Oh ok... So I guess we'll... get back to this tomorrow?
JACK: (smiles and nods) Yeah. Yeah, we will.
JENNIFER watches him go upstairs.
JENNIFER: (to herself) I may not be able to take this away from you, Jack, but I can at least make your Thanksgiving a little bit brighter.
OUT on Jennifer's smile.
EPISODE 14
SCENE 1
INT. JACK'S BEDROOM - DAY (A FEW DAYS AFTER EPISODE 13)
It is Thanksgiving day and JACK is getting ready. He is dressed in a dark gray suit, a white pin-striped shirt, and dark red tie. As he is adjusting his cufflinks, the radio plays in the background. JACK has it tuned to a news station, but he is barely listening.
RADIO ANNOUNCER (V0): ... Get out those long-johns, it looks like we will be getting winter a little early this year as a cold front is about to hit Salem later this week. Don't be surprised to see snow as early as next week! And now to your sports news...
JACK: (to himself, as he tries to get the cufflinks on) Why can't I ever seem to get this right?
He continues to struggle with them. Outside his room, JENNIFER is walking by. JACK'S door is slightly ajar and she sees him trying to get the cufflinks on. She debates for a while whether or not she should go in, then finally she decides to do it.
JENNIFER: (smiling) Need a little help?
JACK: (embarrassed laugh) Uh, well... If you insist...
JENNIFER gives him a knowing smile and walks over to help.
JACK: (rambling, because this reminds him of old times when she would help him get dressed, and he is a little uneasy) These always give me so much trouble... I don't see what's so difficult about getting them through these little holes, but... (realizes what this is starting to sound like, lets out another nervous laugh)
JENNIFER: It's not so tough, Jack. (looks up at him, flirtatious tone) All you need to do is relax, and... (snaps them shut) then everything just falls into place. (beat) See?
JACK: (looking at her) Yes... I see...
JACK and JENNIFER lock eyes for a few moments, then JENNIFER breaks the silence.
JENNIFER: (softly) I'm glad you decided to wear these. (touches the cufflinks gently) If Dad were here, he'd get a kick out of seeing you wearing them.
JACK: (smiles, remembers when JENNIFER gave them to him) Well, they were... one of the best Christmas presents I've ever gotten.
JENNIFER: (touched) Really?
JACK: Really. These and... my very own Horton Christmas Tree ornament. I knew I had really made it to the big leagues then.
JENNIFER: (laughs) Yeah, that was pretty special, wasn't it?
JACK: Well, you know what they say... Once you're on that tree...
JENNIFER: ... you're in for life...
She smiles at him, enjoying this closeness between them, and especially relishing the fact that JACK is not pulling away from her.
JENNIFER: Hey, your tie's a little crooked.
She reaches up to adjust his tie. Much to her surprise, JACK puts his hand on top of hers and gives it a small squeeze.
JACK: Thank you, Jennifer. For... (doesn't really know the right words to say) thank you...
JENNIFER: (nodding) You're welcome, Jack. (beat) So...
JACK: So...
JENNIFER: (smiles) Shall we?
JACK looks at her for a while, then slowly--unsure at first, but then gains confidence--holds out his arm for her to slide her arm through. She does, and then smiles at him.
JACK: Let's go.
OUT on JACK and JENNIFER as they head down the stairs.
SCENE 2
INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - LATER
ABBY has come downstairs and sees a freshly baked pumpkin pie on the dining table. The piped whipped cream is too much for her to resist, so she reaches in a finger to taste it, but JACK gets to her in time before she can sneak a sample.
JACK: (grabbing her waist from behind) Gotcha!
ABBY: (squealing because he is tickling her) Daddy!!
JACK: Thought you could get a little preview of the pie, did you? (ABBY giggles) Well I'm sorry, Miss Abigail Johanna, you will have to wait until dinner is over, just like the rest of us.
ABBY gives him her best puppy dog look.
JACK: Oh no, young lady, that's not going to work on me again, so don't even try it.
ABBY: (feigning innocence--she knows just how to work her father) What do you mean, Daddy? What's not going to work?
JACK finally gives up and sighs.
JACK: (muttering) You know you get that sweet tooth from your mother. (smiles to himself as he gives her a kiss) Among other things...
JENNIFER comes out of the kitchen with a casserole dish.
JENNIFER: What was that, Jack? I thought I heard my name.
JACK: Oh nothing, nothing... (notices what she is carrying) Uh, Jennifer...
JENNIFER: Hmm?
JACK: Is that what I think it is?
JENNIFER: (smiling proudly) Uh huh... What do you think?
JACK: (leans in and sniffs it--it's green noodle casserole, all right) It's... green. Very green.
JENNIFER: (teasing him) It's supposed to be, Jack. (catches ABBY as she's about to touch the pie again) Oh no you don't, Abby!
JACK: (to himself) Our guest has not even arrived yet and it's already pandemonium and mayhem here...
JENNIFER smiles, having overheard him.
JENNIFER: It'll be great, Jack, you'll see. Try to have fun, okay?
JACK: (smirking) Fun. Yes... I guess I could open up my home to your grandmother for today. After all, it is your grandmother, and one person is hardly any trouble at all... (notices JENNIFER seems to be avoiding his eyes) Jennifer?
JENNIFER: (busy setting the table) Yeah, Jack?
JACK: There is only going to be one person coming over, right?
JENNIFER: (trying to sound casual) Why do you ask?
JACK: Because there are already four place settings, and you're setting more plates. (puts his hand on top of hers) There are more people coming--aren't there?
JENNIFER: Well...
JACK eyes her carefully.
JENNIFER: Okay, I admit... there are a few more people coming...
JACK: A few more... Jennifer, you said this would be a small, quiet family dinner? What happened to small and quiet?
JENNIFER: So it won't be so small...
JACK: How 'not so small'?
JENNIFER does not say anything.
JACK: Hope and her family?
JENNIFER: No, no... They'll be at the Bradys this year...
JACK: Doug and Julie?
JENNIFER: No, the Bradys invited them too.
JACK: (becoming suspicious) Then-
The doorbell rings.
JENNIFER: (starts to turn around) Jack, could you do me a favor and get that? I've got to get the biscuits out of the oven...
JACK: (still suspicious) Wait, Jennifer-
JENNIFER has already gone into the kitchen. ABBY tries one more time to sneak a taste of the pie, but JACK snatches her hand away again, much to her frustration. He takes her with him to answer the door.
JACK: (as he heads for the door) I know that deflecting tactic well, Jennifer! I perfected it-
JACK opens the door and is shocked to see who has come to their house for Thanksgiving.
OUT on JACK'S shock.
SCENE 3
IN PROGRESS
JACK and JENNIFER'S first visitors have arrived, and JACK is shocked to see who they are: JO, ADRIENNE, JUSTIN, ALEXANDER, JOEY, VICTOR, and JACKSON.
JO: Hello, son.
JACK: (struggling to find his voice) J-Jo... and Adrienne? Justin?
ADRIENNE: Well? Are you just going to stand there or are you going to give your little sister a hug? (she laughs and comes forward, practically knocking him over with her embrace) Happy Thanksgiving!!
JO: (joining in the embrace; she is very emotional) Oh Billy... It is so good to see you again... (to ABBY) And you! Come here, my beautiful little angel--let Grandma give you a big hug!
ABBY: (running into JO'S arms) Grandma! I missed you!
JO: I missed you too, Abby. Look at you, you've gotten so big since I visited you in Africa two years ago...
ABBY twirls to show off her new dress.
ABBY: Daddy says I'm growing like a weed!
JO: (laughing) Yes, I'd say he's right...
ADRIENNE: And what about a hug for your Aunt Adrienne too, huh? (scoops up ABBY in her arms) You I wish we lived closer so I could come see you more often. I don't have any girls of my own to spoil... (gives her a kiss; ABBY giggles)
JUSTIN: (comes forward, with the boys just behind him) Surprised?
JACK: (very overwhelmed) I... uh... (laughs nervously) Yes, I think surprised would aptly describe what I am feeling at the moment...
He takes a deep breath and looks at all of them, then hears a noise behind him. He turns around and sees that JENNIFER has joined them. She has tears in her eyes.
JACK: (softly, realizing she must have planned all of this) You?
JENNIFER nods and smiles.
JENNIFER: Happy Thanksgiving, Jack.
JACK looks back again at his family and tries hard to keep his composure. JO reaches out a hand to gently squeeze his arm, then pulls him into an embrace. JACK brings up his hands and returns the embrace. The emotion overwhelms her as she thinks of what JACK is going through, and she begins to cry.
ABBY: (tugging on JO'S sleeve) Grandma, why are you crying?
JO: (manages to cover up with a smile) Because, sweetie... (looks at JACK, tries to think of what to say) I've really missed all of you...
OUT on JACK and his family as they savor this moment.
EPISODE 15
SCENE 1
INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - EVENING (SAME DAY AS EPISODE 14)
It is utter chaos at the Deveraux home. Thanksgiving dinner is finished and the adults are sitting at the dining table having coffee, trying to hold a conversation despite the fact that four children on a sugar rush are running amok around them.
VICTOR: (after having chased JOEY and JACKSON all over the room, now corners them and pretends to arrest them) Haha! I gotcha this time!!
JOEY: Wait, you forgot to read me my rights--it's not a real arrest unless you read me my rights!
JACKSON: Yeah, it's not a real arrest!
ALEXANDER: All right, Sheriff stepping in here. What's all this whining about, punks?
ABBY: (bored) I'm tired of playing Cops and Robbers... I always have to be tied up and rescued! (pleading) Can't we play something else now?
JOEY: (to his brothers, rolling his eyes) Girls...
ABBY: (offended) I heard that! So what if I'm a girl?
ALEXANDER: Fine, Abby, don't have a cow... (shoots his water gun at JACKSON, who shoots his water gun back at him but hits ABBY instead)
ABBY: (reacting) Hey!!!
VICTOR: (laughing at the scene) Ok, well what do you want to play, then?
The other boys laugh too; ABBY glares at them.
ABBY: (perks up) You mean you'll let me pick this time?
ALEXANDER: (muttering) Yeah, sure, why not...
CUT TO: THE ADULTS AT THE TABLE
They have been observing all of this with a mixture of amusement and bemusement.
ADRIENNE: (grinning) Jack, I'm surprised you haven't tried to lay down the law here in the last hour or so...
JACK: I beg your pardon?
ADRIENNE: Well it's just that you're not exactly one to put up with... such disorder. (laughs and gestures towards the children, who are arguing LOUDLY over what to play next)
JACK: (grimacing, but tries to be diplomatic) Well... they are children, after all.
Everyone tries to hold in their laughter. JACK notices and arches an eyebrow.
JACK: Care to tell me what's so amusing?
JUSTIN: Well, Jack, it's quite strange to hear this coming from you, that's all.
JACK: Why?
ALICE: Darling, you are the one who had Abby on a strict sleeping schedule from the time she was only a week old, don't you remember?
JACK turns to JENNIFER, who merely smiles and shrugs at him. He starts to say something, but the children come running back to the table and interrupt him.
ALEXANDER: (scanning the table) Is there any pie left?
JUSTIN: (wary) First, tell us if you plan to eat it or use it for... ammunition...
JACKSON: (to ALEXANDER) Told ya they'd find out...
ADRIENNE: Sorry, guys, I think you'll need to go back to the drawing board and think of something else to play that doesn't involve flying edible objects.
ABBY: (comes up to JACK) The boys are fun! I wish I had very my own brother to play with all the time!
JACK: (caught off guard by what she just said, tries to laugh it off) Your very own brother, huh?
ABBY: (nodding enthusiastically) Oh yes! Can I get one? Can I get a baby brother, please?
The entire table falls silent as all the adults look to JACK in sympathy.
JACK can not think of what to say.
SCENE 2
IN PROGRESS
ABBY has just asked JACK if she can have a baby brother, and he does not know what to say to her.
JENNIFER: C'mere, baby... (pulls ABBY towards her)
This is just a bit too much for JACK to handle; he slips away quietly without ABBY noticing. JO follows him.
JENNIFER: (having seen JACK leave and wanting to reach out to him, but wanting to act perfectly normal ABBY) Sweetie, baby brothers don't just... They don't just come out of nowhere...
ABBY: I know that, Mommy. I know it takes a mommy and a daddy to get a baby brother.
JENNIFER: Yes... Yes, it does-
ABBY: And I have both, so isn't that all it takes?
JENNIFER looks up at everyone else at the table and tries to think of the right response.
SCENE 3
EXT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S GARDEN - SAME
JACK has slipped outside without ABBY noticing, and JO has followed him because she is worried about him.
JO: (touches his shoulder) Jack...
JACK does not say anything.
JO: Jack, talk to me, please. I know how much this has got to be hurting you.
JACK slowly turns around to face her.
JACK: (laughs softly, though inside he is hurting a lot) I keep thinking if I just live my life as normally as possible around her, I can protect her. I can spare her all of this. (beat) But I don't know how much longer I can do that. Every time I look in her eyes...
JO reaches up to touch his face. She is crying because she sees how much pain he is in over this.
JACK: Every time I look in my daughter's eyes, I can't help but think of the fact that I may let her down yet again, Jo-
JO: What are you talking about, son? You will not let her down-
JACK: (very emotional) Oh no? How about the fact that I may not be able to give her that baby brother she wants? Or the fact that I may not be around for her next birthday, or chase the monsters out from under her bed when she has a nightmare, or... (his voice starts to shake; he stops now because he knows if he doesn't, he will cry, and he does not want to cry)
JO: (can not bear to see him like this) Now you listen to me, Billy. I've got something to say to you, and I want you to listen good.
OUT on JACK waiting for what JO has to say.
SCENE 4
CUT TO: JENNIFER AND ABBY
ABBY wants to know why she can't have a baby brother.
ABBY: If all it takes is a mommy and a daddy, what's the problem?
ALEXANDER: (tiring of this conversation) You're such a baby, Abby...
ADRIENNE: Alexander!
ABBY: (overlapping, to ALEXANDER) Shut up!
JENNIFER: Abby, that's not nice-
ALICE: (reestablishing order once again) All right, children, that's enough.
They quiet down in response to her.
JENNIFER: (flashing a grateful smile) Thanks, Grandma.
JACKSON: (to the rest of the children) Come on, let's go play video games!
ABBY: (as she runs off with the boys) Okay, as long as I get to pick the video game...
JENNIFER watches her go off, relieved that she no longer has to answer any more questions.
JENNIFER: (looking at ALICE, ADRIENNE, and JUSTIN) I don't know how much longer we can keep the truth from her...
SCENE 5
CUT TO: JACK AND JO
JO is hurting for her son and wants to give him hope.
JO: I know I wasn't around when you were growing up. And I know when I did show up, it was probably too late and you didn't need a mother anymore, but... but I am your mother, and I want to help you. So you're going to let me help you, all right?
JACK half-smiles.
JACK: Well, when have I ever been able to stop you from mothering me?
JO: (glad he isn't pushing her away) Oh, Billy... I won't pretend to know what you're going through. I know I can't even begin to imagine what it is like for you, not knowing what's going to happen. But son, you have to stop thinking that you're a bad father because of this--because you're not.
JACK: No, Jo--I am a bad father because I've let my daughter down too many times in the past, and I may never get a chance to really make up for it-
JO: (firmly) Stop that! You stop that right now, do you understand me? Now I know how much you love that little girl in there, and how you would give your life for her- (stops, when she realizes her mistake in her choice of words) Everything you have ever done since she was born was to make sure she was happy and secure. All right, so maybe you've made mistakes, but what parent hasn't? (reaches up to touch his face and make him look in her eyes) I don't have to tell you about mine, do I?
JACK: Jo-
JO: No, let me finish. (beat) It's true no one knows what the future holds. And that's got to be terrifying for you--I know it is for me. But don't live your life wallowing in regret, son. Believe me, it's no way to live.
JACK is quiet, thinking about what she has said.
JO: All right, I guess that's the end of my lecture. (she smiles; so does JACK) How about we go back inside before they eat the rest of that pie?
JACK smiles, then follows her inside.
SCENE 6
INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - LATER
JACK and JO have returned to the dining table, and the children--finally exhausted from all the games--have gathered around as well.
ALICE: Well, Jennifer Rose, if you don't mind, I'd like to continue a Horton tradition tonight.
JENNIFER: Oh, of course, Grandma!
ALICE: Every year, we like to go around the table and mention one thing we are grateful for. I would really like it if we can do that here tonight...
JO: Mrs. Horton, that sounds wonderful. I'll start. (she looks around at her family, and beams) I'm grateful to be spending Thanksgiving with my children. (remembers STEVE, gets a little choked up) I am so happy they are with me here today.
ADRIENNE: (squeezes JO'S hand and smiles) Well I'm thankful that we've been blessed with four wonderful children--who certainly make life interesting each and every day.
JUSTIN: (laughing) And I'm thankful we are able to keep up with them!
ALICE: (smiling at JENNIFER and JACK) I'm grateful that my beautiful granddaughter and her family have come home again.
JENNIFER: I'm thankful... (looks at JACK) I'm thankful for second chances...
It is now JACK'S turn. He's never been particularly fond of this tradition, and does not really know what to say, but knows how special this is to everyone. As he tries to think of what to say, he looks at ABBY, then looks at JENNIFER.
JACK: I'm thankful... for you. (looks at everyone) All of you.
OUT on JACK'S smile.
Chapters 1 - 5 *** Chapters 6 - 10 *** Chapters 11 - 15 *** Chapters 16 - 20 *** Chapters 21 - 25 Chapters 26 - 30 *** Chapters 31 - 35 *** Chapters 36 - 40 *** Chapters 41 - 45 *** Chapters 46 - 47