In This Life
by Jennifer
Episodes 21 - 25
EPISODE 21
SCENE 1
INT. HORTON LIVING ROOM - DAY (THE DAY AFTER EPISODE 20)
It is the morning after ABBY spent the night at ALICE'S. ALICE and ABBY are waiting for JACK and JENNIFER to come over to pick ABBY up. They are sitting on the couch as ALICE braids ABBY'S hair.
ALICE: You know, this reminds me of when your mother was your age. I used to braid her hair like this all the time.
ABBY: (fascinated by stories of JENNIFER as a child) Really?
ALICE: Yes. Your grandfather would come by to visit and she would sit here and beg me to give her a new hairstyle.
ABBY: (giggling) I can't picture Mommy as a little girl. What was she like, Great-gram?
ALICE: Oh, she was a lot like you, Abigail. She was very precocious, smart, sweet. And very full of energy. I remember she could never sit still for too long. It would take me forever to fix her hair because she could never just sit there and wait for me to finish! (laughs) But you, my darling, you have been very patient.
ABBY: Daddy says patience is a virt... virt...
ALICE: A virtue?
ABBY: Uh huh, a virtue...
ALICE: (smiling) Your father is very wise, Abigail.
ABBY: He's the smartest man in the world! And Mommy's the smartest woman in the world too!
ALICE: You're a very lucky little girl, then. To have such wonderful parents. (puts an elastic band on the end of ABBY'S braid) There you go, dear, all done.
ABBY: Thank you! (turning around to face ALICE) Great-gram?
ALICE: Yes, darling?
ABBY: I was wondering something.
ALICE: (curious) What is it?
ABBY: Do you think... Mommy said yes to Daddy's proposal?
OUT on ALICE'S smile.
SCENE 2
IN PROGRESS
ABBY has just asked ALICE what she thinks JENNIFER'S answer to JACK'S proposal was.
ABBY: Do you think she said yes, Great-gram?
ALICE: I don't know, dear. Your parents are... very unpredictable.
ABBY: (softly) I hope she said yes. I wish they could get married again, like they were before I got sick.
ALICE can not believe how perceptive ABBY is, and feels badly that she is all too aware of the tumult between JACK and JENNIFER over the years.
ABBY: Daddy said they'd always love each other no matter what. But if they still love each other, how come they broke up? Is it because Daddy is sick?
ALICE: (not quite sure how to answer) My, such big questions for an eight year old!
ALICE pats the spot next to her on the couch, and ABBY gets up from the floor and sits next to her. ALICE puts her arms around her.
ABBY: Great-gram... Do you think Daddy's scared?
ALICE does not know what to say. Her heart is breaking that ABBY is asking this.
ABBY: He didn't tell me he was, but maybe he doesn't want me to know he is. Mommies and daddies aren't supposed to get scared, right? But maybe he pretends not to be scared so I won't get scared.
ALICE: (looks at ABBY) Are you scared, darling?
ABBY: (after a beat, nods) What happens if Daddy doesn't get better? (looks up at ALICE) I don't want him to die, Great-gram... Mommy and I would be all alone...
ALICE: (holds her tight) Oh Abigail-
ABBY: Mommy has to say yes, Great-gram! If she says yes, they'll get married and then she can help him get better, right?
ALICE wishes she knew the right thing to say.
ABBY: I know she can help him. I know she can make him all better again, and then we can be a real family again-
The doorbell rings.
ABBY: (excited) That's them!
ALICE and ABBY go to the door. ABBY opens the door and JACK pulls her into a hug.
JACK: Hey, there's my big beautiful girl! (he can't scoop her up and twirl her around like he usually does; instead he affectionately pats her on the back)
JENNIFER is standing behind JACK, beaming as she watches them. ABBY looks up and notices her and grins.
ABBY: Well?
JACK: (looks at JENNIFER and smiles, then looks back at ABBY and pretends not to know what she means) Well what, Abigail?
ABBY: (crosses her arms and gives them a knowing look) You know what, Daddy. (looks at JENNIFER) Did you say yes, Mommy? Did you?
JENNIFER smiles.
OUT on JENNIFER, JACK, and ALICE exchanging amused glances as ABBY waits for her answer.
SCENE 3
IN PROGRESS
ABBY has just asked JENNIFER if she has accepted JACK'S proposal.
JACK: (enjoying teasing his daughter) My, what a greeting... I don't think you even gave us a proper hello-
ABBY: Daddy, you're stalling!
ALICE: (laughs, comes to ABBY'S side and touches her shoulder) Now, now, Abigail... I'm sure they will tell us when they're ready to tell us.
It's clear ALICE is also dying to know the answer, but she does not want to appear too anxious. JACK and JENNIFER exchange conspiratorial looks.
JENNIFER: (grinning) You two are really subtle, you know that?
ABBY: (bursting) Well? Are you going to tell us, or do we have to tickle you?
JACK: (mock horror) All right, all right, we give! Anything but that!
He looks at JENNIFER. She smiles and kneels down in front of ABBY so they are at eye level with each other.
JENNIFER: So I hear you were a big part of my surprise last night.
ABBY: (nods enthusiastically) Uh huh! Daddy said I could build two snow people! And I got to set the table and everything... Did you like it, Mommy?
JENNIFER: I loved it, baby. (hugs her and gives her a kiss)
ABBY: Daddy said he wanted it to be really special. I hope it was...
JENNIFER: It was perfect. (looks at JACK) You and Daddy were wonderful, absolutely wonderful.
She shows ABBY her left hand. ABBY looks down and sees the ring, and her eyes widen in excitement.
JENNIFER: (softly) I said yes, baby. (looks up at ALICE, who looks just beside herself with joy and pride, then back down at ABBY)
ABBY: You and Daddy are going to get married again? For real?
JENNIFER: (smiling) Yes, baby. For real.
SCENE 4
JENNIFER has just told ABBY that she has accepted JACK'S proposal.
ALICE: Oh Jennifer Rose... Jack... I... (she can not contain her happiness) I'm so happy for you, this is wonderful news!
JACK: (slightly embarrassed) I'm so glad you think so, Mrs. Horton. (looks at JENNIFER) It's certainly been a long time coming.
ALICE: Well, you know what they say. The best things in life are worth the wait. (puts her hands together) Oh, this calls for a celebration, why don't you come in, both of you--I'll go make us a late breakfast and we can all talk-
JACK: Oh no, Mrs. Horton, we don't want to trouble you... Besides, you've had your hands full taking care of the child since last night. Tell you what--why don't we all go to the Brady Pub and have some brunch? Our treat, what do you say?
ALICE: Why Jack, that's very thoughtful.
JACK: (smiling) I've had some... some good things happen to me in the last twenty-four hours... I figured I'd spread some good cheer in gratitude.
He looks down at ABBY.
JACK: And you, young lady... (holds her close) How do you feel about me asking for your mother's hand in marriage?
ABBY: (giggling) I thought you'd never ask, Daddy!
JACK: Oh, so I take it you approve then, Miss Deveraux?
ABBY: Oh yes, I approve whole-heartedly, Daddy- (corrects herself) Mr. Deveraux... (pats him on the shoulder) Job well done.
JACK grins, then looks up at JENNIFER.
JACK: All right, I've just had another brilliant idea. Jennifer, why don't you call up Bo and Hope too, and see if they and their brood would like to come join us for brunch at the pub? And perhaps Doug and Julie, and Mickey and Maggie-
JENNIFER: (laughs) My, what has gotten into you? The thought of having to be in a room full of Hortons usually has you breaking out in hives, Jack.
JACK: (offended) Now that is not true, Jennifer-
JENNIFER gives him a "yeah, right" look.
JACK: All right, that may have been true. But this is the new and improved Jack Deveraux-
JENNIFER: (interrupts him with a kiss) Do me a favor, Jack. Don't change too much, okay? I happened to love the old Jack Deveraux just the way he was.
JACK: (grins) Oh is that a fact?
JENNIFER: Mm hmm... (gives him another quick kiss, then begins to call HOPE)
JACK watches her as she talks to HOPE and ALICE comes up to him, putting a hand on his shoulder to get his attention.
ALICE: Thank you, Jack.
JACK: (not sure what she means) For what, Mrs. Horton?
ALICE: You know exactly for what. (beat) For making my granddaughter so happy.
JACK: (looks back at JENNIFER) All reciprocation... It just so happens your granddaughter makes me very happy as well. (pulls ABBY towards him and looks at her lovingly) As does your great-granddaughter, for that matter. (beat) Who'd have ever thought it, huh? Jack Deveraux? Happy? There's one for Ripley's Believe It Or Not...
ALICE: (giving him a knowing smile) Oh, I don't know Jack. Some of us aren't all that surprised, to tell you the truth.
They smile and are quiet for a while, knowing exactly what the other is thinking.
JENNIFER: (coming over to join them) It's all set, they're going to meet as at the pub. Hope thought it was a great idea--in fact, she said I was psychic, because she was just about to call and ask me over at the house to ask me something.
JACK: Well, shall we, then?
ALICE: (as everyone starts to leave) I just want to say one last thing...
They all turn to look at her.
ALICE: I am just so happy to see the three of you together like this. As a family. I know it didn't seem very possible just a few short months ago, but I knew in my heart it would work out.
ABBY: I was just thinking the same thing, Great-gram! I knew if I just wished hard enough, they would get back together... Now I just have to wish for Daddy to get better, and he will!
JACK and JENNIFER look at ABBY, then at each other, and smile, trying not to let their sadness show.
JENNIFER: (looking at JACK) Yeah, baby... I think there's a lot of magic left in those wishes...
OUT on JACK kissing ABBY'S forehead.
EPISODE 22
SCENE 1
EXT. BRADY PUB - DAY (SAME DAY AS EPISODE 21)
JACK, JENNIFER, ABBY, and ALICE have gone to the BRADY PUB to meet BO, HOPE, SHAWN-D, and J.T. for brunch. ALICE and ABBY have gone ahead and gone inside, while JACK and JENNIFER linger outside for a few more moments. JENNIFER notices that JACK seems a bit nervous and apprehensive about going inside.
JENNIFER: (giving his hand a tug) Hey... Are you all right?
JACK: (a bit distracted) Hmm? Oh, yes, I'm... I'm fine...
JENNIFER: You're sure?
JACK: Absolutely. (beat) Why wouldn't I be fine?
JENNIFER: I don't know, I just... thought that maybe you were having second thoughts about meeting everyone for brunch, that's all.
JACK: (can't believe she has picked up on how he feels, forces a laugh to throw her off) Oh come on, that's ridiculous, Jennifer. Why would I be having second thoughts?
JENNIFER: So you're not nervous?
JACK: Not in the least.
JENNIFER: (not buying it) All right... It's just that you usually repeat things when you're uneasy about something.
JACK: What do you mean I repeat things when I'm uneasy?
JENNIFER gives him a "I rest my case" look. JACK realizes he just did it, and nervously laughs.
JENNIFER: (smiles) So you must be relieved that Doug and Julie, and Uncle Mickey and Aunt Maggie couldn't join us today on such short notice.
JACK: Well, I wouldn't say relieved, exactly...
JENNIFER: Come on, admit it.
JACK: (dryly) Exactly how am I supposed to respond to a comment like that without being offended? If you're implying that-
JENNIFER: (enjoys teasing him) Oh don't even try to lay that guilt trip on me, Jack Deveraux! I know you.
JACK: You really think so, don't you?
JENNIFER: I do. (smiles) I know why you wanted to invite everyone today.
JACK: Oh, you do?
JENNIFER: Mm hmm. I know exactly what you wanted to do here, Jack. And I think it's the sweetest thing in the world.
JACK rolls his eyes and gives her an uneasy smile.
OUT on JACK'S embarrassment.
SCENE 2
IN PROGRESS
JENNIFER tells JACK that she knows why he wanted to invite everyone for brunch at the BRADY PUB.
JACK: You know something, I think I see Abigail having a milkshake in there--I think we should go in and tell her to save that for later after she's had a proper meal-
JENNIFER: (grabs JACK'S arm as he is about to go in) Wait a minute, don't try to change the subject on me. I was about to tell you something.
JACK: Ah yes, you were about to use your psychic powers on me, Desiree.
JENNIFER: (smirks at him) Cute. You know, you're starting you give yourself away now.
JACK: I must be losing my touch.
JENNIFER: (exasperated laugh) Jack!
JACK: What?
JENNIFER: I know why you wanted to meet everyone here--and why you're so nervous. And I think it's sweet-
JACK: (cringes) Sweet... Now, there you go using that word again-
JENNIFER: (suppressing a smile) Sorry, I meant thoughtful. It was thoughtful of you-
JACK: And just what is this I've done that's so thoughtful?
JENNIFER: (sighs) Has anyone ever told you how impossible you make it for someone to thank you?
JACK: Vern might have said something to that effect once or twice, yes.
JENNIFER: (smiles) Well, that's what I'm trying to do, Jack. I'm trying to thank you.
JACK: For...
JENNIFER: For this gesture. I know why you wanted me to ask Hope and her family over here--and Doug and Julie, and Uncle Mickey and Aunt Maggie... You wanted to announce to my family that we're getting married.
JACK tries not to give away the fact that she's right, but JENNIFER notices the corner of his mouth going up into a small smile.
JENNIFER: Don't try to deny it, I know that's what you were doing.
JACK: Well, I...
JENNIFER: What?
JACK: (embarrassed grin) All right, you're right. That is what I was trying to do.
JENNIFER: (smiles) And I can't thank you enough for being so sw--thoughtful. Jack, I know how uncomfortable you get around my family. And for you to want to set that discomfort aside and do this anyway--I can't tell you what that means to me.
JACK: (defending himself) Well it's not that I'm not fond of your family, Jennifer, it's just that the Hortons are... (clears throat) You're a very touchy-feely bunch. The Deveraux, on the other hand... never were. To put it mildly.
JENNIFER: (gives him a kiss on the cheek, then wipes the lipstick off his face) Come on, let's go inside.(leans in and whispers) Your secret's safe with me.
JACK smiles as they walk in hand in hand.
SCENE 3
INT. BRADY PUB - LATER
JACK, JENNIFER, ABBY, and ALICE are now all inside, settled in a booth. ABBY is sitting on JACK'S lap, JENNIFER is sitting beside him, and ALICE is sitting opposite them, as they talk to SHAWN.
SHAWN: I can't tell you how good it is to see the three of you back home again. Just like old times, eh?
JENNIFER: Yeah, it's been wonderful being back. I didn't realize how much I missed Salem until I got back.
SHAWN: Well I'm glad to hear that, darlin'. And Jack, I... I hope you know that Caroline and I are here for you if you... need anything. (does not elaborate further because he does not want to say too much in front of ABBY)
JACK is touched by SHAWN'S kindness. Though they have become put the past behind them and managed to become friends over the years, he is still surprised that SHAWN would say this to him.
JACK: Thank you, Mr. Brady. that's... that's very good of you.
SHAWN nods and smiles without a word. CAROLINE comes over with another milkshake for ABBY.
CAROLINE: Here you go, sweetheart-
JACK: Wait a minute, wait a minute--we haven't even ordered yet, and you're on your second one already, young lady?
ABBY: (giving JACK a pleading look) I promise to eat whatever you order for me-
JACK: Abigail-
ABBY: Even if there's vegetables! I'll eat all the vegetables!
ALICE: (smiles) Well, now, I'm sure if you promise to wait until you've had brunch before you have this milkshake, your father will think that's a perfectly reasonable request.
JACK: (looks at ALICE and JENNIFER) Well...
ABBY: Please, Daddy? I won't ask till I ask again... (gives JACK a puppy dog look)
JACK: Oh no you don't--not that face. Your mother taught you that face.
JENNIFER and ABBY: (simultaneously) What face?
JACK smirks.
JACK: (reluctantly) All right. But not until the food is here, is that a deal?
ABBY: (excitedly) Deal!
JENNIFER: Well it shouldn't be too much longer. Hope said they were on their way, so they should be here any minute now-
BO, HOPE, SHAWN-D, and J.T. come into the pub as JENNIFER is talking.
HOPE: We're here, we're here! (comes over to kiss ALICE, and then hug JENNIFER) I'm sorry we're late...
BO: We had a bit of a tough time getting this guy ready (smiles at J.T.), but we're here now. (hugs CAROLINE and SHAWN) Hey Ma, Pop...
SHAWN-D: (as they sit down) Okay, let's eat!
Everyone laughs.
SHAWN-D: What?
BO: Nothing, son, I think everyone was just amazed it took you so long to ask for the food, that's all.
SHAWN-D: Haha. Look, Abby's already having something...
HOPE: Well, now that we're all here... (looks to JENNIFER) Jen, you did have perfect timing today. There's something I've been meaning to ask you for a while now, and I'm hoping it's not too late.
OUT on JENNIFER'S curiosity.
SCENE 4
IN PROGRESS
HOPE wants to ask JENNIFER something.
JENNIFER: Well now you've got me all intrigued, Hope. What's this all about?
HOPE: All right, before I ask you I just want you to know that I wanted to ask you this before, but you were in Africa at the time and I just wasn't sure if you could make it back, and then when you got back, I kept meaning to ask you, but I never got the chance to, and now I know this is short notice, but I'm sure Calliope will help-
JENNIFER: (laughing) Whoa, whoa, slow down... What is it?
HOPE: (looks at BO, then at JENNIFER) Okay, here it is. (beat) Would you be my maid of honor?
JENNIFER: Oh, Hope...
HOPE: I know, this is really short notice, and I feel terrible for bringing it up at the last minute, but I think we can get Calliope to whip up a dress for you, what do you say?
ABBY: Do it, Mommy! You'll look so pretty!
Everyone at the table laughs.
JENNIFER: (smiles) You think so, baby? (to HOPE) Of course, I'll do it. I'd be honored...
HOPE: You will? Oh, Jen, that's fantastic! (goes over to hug JENNIFER) It'll be great, all us Horton girls reunited. Melissa and Sarah going to be bridesmaids too, and so are Kayla and Kim for that matter. It's going to be perfect now that you're here too.
JENNIFER smiles and looks at JACK. HOPE sees the way they're looking at each other and is surprised, but happy, to see them so close.
HOPE: So uh... what's going on here, you two?
JENNIFER: (feigning innocence) What do you mean?
BO: What she means is, you two have been quite cozy since we got here.
HOPE: (smiling) Really cozy.
JENNIFER: (exchanging amused looks with JACK) Well, as a matter of fact, we do have something to tell you...
BO and HOPE smile at each other.
HOPE: I see...
JACK: (clears throat) Yes, you could say we, uh... have an announcement of our own.
HOPE: (getting excited, looks at JENNIFER) You mean...
OUT on JENNIFER'S radiant smile.
SCENE 5
IN PROGRESS
JACK and JENNIFER are getting ready to announce their engagement.
JENNIFER: So... we were hoping you wouldn't have any plans yet for the week after your wedding...
HOPE: (a little confused) You mean New Year's Eve?
JACK: Yes, New Year's Eve. (beat) Would you two be enjoying your honeymoon at that point?
BO: (sighs) I wish, Jack. But unfortunately, we're always shorthanded at the station during the holidays and it's real tough to get any kind of time off, so we had to put the honeymoon off for a little while.
HOPE: (thinks she's figured it out) Oh, were you two thinking of putting on some sort of a bash this year? Is that it?
JACK: In a manner of speaking, yes.
JENNIFER: Uh, let's just say Calliope's going to be working overtime in the next few weeks... making lots of dresses...
HOPE: Okay, wait a minute--I'm getting a little lost here... What's going on? What are you guys trying to tell us?
BO: Yeah, if you don't mind me saying, Jen, I think Jack's rubbed off on you in the communication department because I have no idea where this is heading.
JENNIFER: (smiles) We're-
ABBY: (unable to keep it in anymore) They're getting married!!
HOPE: (shocked) You're... what? (exchanges bewildered looks with everyone) What?
JACK: Well... you heard the child...
HOPE: Wait a minute--Jack, Jen, is it true? You're really getting married again?
JENNIFER: (nods, holds out her hand) Yeah, Hope. We are.
The table erupts with glee.
SHAWN: Well, congratulations!
CAROLINE: (overlapping) That's wonderful news!!
BO: (overlapping) Congratulations, you two!
SHAWN-D: Wow, you two are finally going to go through with it again, huh?
HOPE: Shawn-D!
JENNIFER laughs.
HOPE: I can't believe it! Oh my goodness! (gets up and hugs JENNIFER) Congratulations!! (to ALICE) Did you know about this, Gran?
ALICE: (laughing) They told me this morning, darling. It's just wonderful.
HOPE: Yes it is... I just... I didn't expect it, I mean, I had a feeling you two were back together after seeing the way you've been all morning, but...
JENNIFER: I know, it's completely sudden, but you know us. We don't really do things the ordinary way.
SHAWN: Well, this calls for a celebration! I'll go get some champagne for a toast...
SHAWN and CAROLINE go off to get the champagne.
JENNIFER: Well, I expect you to return the favor and be my maid of honor, of course.
HOPE: Oh, you don't even have to ask. (smiles) Oh Jen, I'm so happy for you. For both of you. I know it hasn't been easy lately, but this is really fantastic. I'm so glad you two have worked things out.
JACK: We're pretty pleased ourselves.
JENNIFER: (rolls her eyes and smiles) What he means, in his usual understated manner, is that we're happy too. Very happy.
ALICE: This is going to be a very good Christmas for the Horton family, I just know it.
JENNIFER: Yes, Grandma. It is.
JENNIFER looks at JACK and JACK smiles back at her.
JACK: Indeed.
OUT on everyone as they celebrate.
EPISODE 23
SCENE 1
EXT. CALLIOPE'S APARTMENT - DAY (SAME DAY AS EPISODE 22)
JENNIFER and HOPE have come to CALLIOPE'S place so JENNIFER can get fitted for her maid of honor dress. They are standing outside of CALLIOPE'S door, waiting for her to answer it.
CALLIOPE (VO): I'll be right there! Just a second! (her voice becomes muffled; she is talking to someone else) Oh come on, honey, it's just the girls, you don't have to leave...
EUGENE (VO): You know, I'd really just rather not be around for all the girl stuff. You'll feel inhibited with me around anyway-
CALLIOPE (VO): Oh come on, don't be silly-
EUGENE (VO): Really, you all have fun without me... I'll be home later...
JENNIFER and HOPE exchange grins and immediately switch to straight faces when the door swings open. EUGENE gives them an awkward smile.
EUGENE: (tips his head) Ladies.
JENNIFER and HOPE: (simultaneously, both trying not to laugh) Hi, Eugene.
EUGENE: (clears throat) If you'll excuse me... (leaves)
CALLIOPE: (unaware that JENNIFER and HOPE had overheard them) He's just um... He's going to go to the lab... You know, he's working on this big project and he's really close to a breakthrough, so he's there all the time. (laughs nervously, then calls out to EUGENE, who is too far down the hallway to hear her) Good luck, honey! I'll see you later!
JENNIFER and HOPE just look at each other and smile.
CALLIOPE: Well, don't just stand there, girls, come on in! (taking hold of their arms to pull them in) So... (to JENNIFER) This one needs a maid of honor dress, huh?
JENNIFER: (chagrined smile) Uh, yeah...
CALLIOPE: "Uh, yeah?" (starts to panic) Oh no. You've changed your mind? You're not going to do this after all? You don't think I can do it in this little time, do you? But I can, I promise-
JENNIFER: (laughing) No, no, no, that's not it at all!
CALLIOPE: Oh. (beat) Then what is it?
JENNIFER: Well, um... (bites her lip, looks at HOPE) Would it be asking the impossible of you to make two more dresses within the next few weeks?
CALLIOPE: (confused) Two more dresses... Hope, did you add more girls to your wedding party or something?
HOPE: (smiling, shakes her head) Nope.
CALLIOPE: (back to JENNIFER) Okay, then I don't get it, Jennifer.
JENNIFER: All right, you're probably going think I'm nuts, but... what the heck... (beat) I'm getting married too. (smiles) On New Year's Eve.
OUT on CALLIOPE'S shock.
SCENE 2
INT. JACK'S BEDROOM - SAME
JACK and ABBY have come home from the pub and JACK is in his room, trying to work up the nerve to call JO to tell her about the engagement. He picks up the phone, then puts it back down again before he even starts to dial. He does this several times until finally he sighs, feeling silly.
JACK: Oh, this is ridiculous... Why on earth would I let something as simple as this intimidate me? I mean, I've been stranded on an island with no modern conveniences to speak of, fenced with a homicidal maniac--twice, survived a fall off a building, a kidney transplant, a ship wreck, a train wreck, a snow storm... Hell, I've even delivered my own child! (beat) So why does the thought of calling my mother to deliver some good news petrify me?
ABBY: (overhearing him from the hallway) Daddy? Who are you talking to?
JACK: (surprised to see her peeking in his room) Oh, hello there... (he waves her in and she comes and sits on his lap) You sure like to sneak up on people, don't you, Miss Mata Hari? (gives her a squeeze and kisses her, while she laughs)
ABBY: What are you doing, Daddy?
JACK: (still holding the phone) Me? Oh, I was uh... I was just calling your grandmother-
ABBY: Ooh, can I talk to her?
JACK: Well-
ABBY excitedly takes the phone from his hand.
ABBY: Grandma? (tries again) Grandma? (gives JACK a bewildered look) It's just a dial tone, Daddy...
JACK: (laughing nervously at having been caught by his eight year old) It is? (takes the phone from her, tries to cover up) Well, what in the blazes is going on here? Are you sure that wasn't your grandmother's voice you heard buzzing in your ear? You know, she does begin to sound like that once she gets talking-
ABBY: (giggling) Daddy! You're being silly again...
JACK: (with a straight face) I am?
ABBY nods.
JACK: (smiles) Yeah, I guess I am. (beat) All right, do you want to talk to your grandmother for real?
ABBY: Can I?
JACK: Absolutely. Here... (hands her the phone) The number is 555-
ABBY: (already dialing) I know it!
JACK: (surprised and impressed) Don't forget the area code-
ABBY: It's ringing!
CUT TO: JO answering on the other line.
JO: Kiriakis residence.
ABBY: Grandma?
JO: Abby? Is that you, sweetheart?
ABBY: Yes, Grandma, it's me! Hi!
OUT on JACK'S smile as he watches ABBY.
SCENE 3
CUT TO: CALLIOPE, JENNIFER, AND HOPE
JENNIFER has just told CALLIOPE that she and JACK are getting married again.
CALLIOPE: (excited) You two are really going to take the plunge again? Oh, this is such great news!! (hugs JENNIFER) Two Horton weddings within a week of each other! (grins) Wait a minute, you two aren't going to get into some sort of competition about that, are you?
HOPE: Of course not! (beat) Although I do get to go first...
JENNIFER: Oh, well what's new? You always get to do things first, Hope.
HOPE: Those are the advantages of being older-
CALLIOPE: (puts her fingers in her mouth and whistles) Hold it you two--time out! I'm breaking this up. Now, we've got work to do!
JENNIFER and HOPE exchange grins.
CALLIOPE: All right, Jennifer, let's get this show on the road. (begins to wrap fabric around JENNIFER) Oh wait... Oh no... Oh no, no, no...
JENNIFER: What's wrong?
CALLIOPE: (rummaging through her sewing kit) I can't believe it! Argh!
HOPE: What?
CALLIOPE: I'm all out of pins! Can you believe it, I'm out of pins? I've been so scatterbrained lately... How could I run out of them-
JENNIFER: Calliope, relax! It's going to be okay.
CALLIOPE: You're right. You're absolutely right, it's not a big deal, right? I'll just run to the store and get boxes of them. Boxes of them!
JENNIFER: (trying not to laugh) See? Nothing to worry about...
CALLIOPE: (still high-strung) I'm sorry, Jennifer, now we're another half an hour behind on schedule-
JENNIFER: You know what, we'll make do. We will. Don't worry about it, really!
CALLIOPE: You're sure?
JENNIFER: I'm positive.
CALLIOPE: Okay, well I'll go run to the store right now and I'll be back as soon as humanly possible, all right? Will you two be fine here by yourselves?
HOPE: (deadpans) We'll try to manage without you.
CALLIOPE: (harried) Good, okay... Well, I'm off!
CALLIOPE takes off in a hurry and slams the door behind her. JENNIFER turns to HOPE and bursts out laughing.
HOPE: Well, that was quite a scene.
JENNIFER: She'll be fine, once she calms down a little.
HOPE rolls her eyes and grins.
JENNIFER: You're right, it's Calliope.
HOPE and JENNIFER: (simultaneously) She doesn't know how to calm down.
HOPE: So... Bet you had forgotten how insane this wedding planning business is, huh? Not that I'm rubbing it in that I had months to prepare and you only have... (looks at her watch) 29 days...
JENNIFER: (smirks) Yeah, thanks for not rubbing that in. (laughs) Actually, that's more preparation time than I had for my first wedding, so I think I'll manage.
HOPE: I'm just teasing, Jen, you know that. (beat) I am so happy for you. Have I told you that in the last few minutes?
JENNIFER: (smiles) No, not in the last few minutes. You better not slip like that again.
HOPE: I mean it, Jen. I know how hard things had been for you and Jack, but I'm so happy to see you guys work things out the way Bo and I did. This is a happy time for both of us. And we sure deserve it, don't we?
JENNIFER: (softly) Yeah... Yeah, it's a happy time...
HOPE: (noticing a hint of sadness in JENNIFER'S voice) What? What is it?
JENNIFER gives her a sad smile and turns away.
SCENE 4
CUT TO: JACK, ABBY, AND JO
ABBY has just called JO, after JACK couldn't work up the nerve to call her. JO is thrilled to hear from ABBY.
JO: And to what do I owe the pleasure of my wonderful granddaughter calling?
ABBY: No real reason, Grandma. I just called 'cause I missed you. When are you and Aunt Adrienne and Uncle Justin coming back to visit?
JO: (touched) Oh we hope to visit again soon, honey. Really soon. We really miss all of you too.
ABBY: Even the boys?
JO: (smiles) Yes, even the boys, sweetheart. They even said so--but don't tell them I told you that, okay?
ABBY: (giggles) Okay. I miss them too. They are a lot of fun to be around--even if they do pick on me all the time.
JO: Oh honey, I am so glad you called. How are you?
ABBY: I'm doing great, Grandma! I got an A+ on my math quiz the other day, and I won the third grade spelling bee!
JO: You did? Congratulations!
JACK: (yells into the phone) That's my little girl--nothing short of brilliant!
JO: (laughs) She sure is, Jack. Abby, that is just fantastic. I'm so proud of you! I have such smart grandchildren... (beat) And what about your mother and father? Are they doing all right?
ABBY: Oh yes, they're doing great too!
JACK realizes she is talking abut him and JENNIFER and listens intently.
JO: I'm so happy to hear that, sweetheart.
ABBY: Yeah, and guess what, Grandma? They're going to get married again!
JO: (not expecting that at all) They're... what?!
JACK panics and takes the phone from ABBY.
ABBY: (as JACK is taking back the phone) They're getting married again, and I get to be the-
JACK: Uh, sweetheart, why don't I just take it from here, all right?
JO: (overlapping) Abby? Are you still there? What did you just say? Abby? Jack?
ABBY: Tell her I get to be a flower girl, Daddy! Tell her!
JACK: (stammering) A-All right, I'll tell her, Abigail...
JO: (overlapping) Jack?
ABBY: Ask her to come to the wedding, Daddy! And Aunt Adrienne, and Uncle Justin, and the boys, too!
JACK: I will, I will...
ABBY smiles and starts to leave.
JACK: (as ABBY walks out) Uh... Jo?
JO: Jack? Jack, what's going on? What did Abby mean when she said you two were getting married again? Is it true?
JACK: (laughs nervously) I guess the child got a little excited there, huh?
JO: Son, talk to me. Is it true? Are you and Jennifer really getting married again?
OUT on JACK as he tries to figure out what to tell her.
SCENE 5
CUT TO: JENNIFER AND HOPE
HOPE has noticed that JENNIFER seems a little sad and is worried.
HOPE: (putting her hand on JENNIFER'S shoulder) Jen, what's wrong?
JENNIFER: (turning around to face her) Nothing's wrong... I'm fine...
HOPE: Nice try. Look, I know you're happy about you and Jack, but I can tell there's something bothering you--oh...
JENNIFER: What?
HOPE: Oh my God, I'm so sorry... How could I be so insensitive?
JENNIFER: What? What are you talking about?
HOPE: Here I am going on and on about how this is a happy time for both of us, and you're still dealing with Jack being sick... I can be so thoughtless sometimes-
JENNIFER: No, Hope, it's okay... Don't blame yourself, all right? You didn't say anything wrong. (smiles) It's natural to get caught up in the good things that are happening in our lives. It makes dealing with the bad stuff a little easier, too.
HOPE: You are thinking about Jack being sick. Oh, Jen, I know that's still really hard to wrap your mind around, but that's why you have to live for the moment and embrace what's about to happen.
JENNIFER: (nodding) I know. And yes, that's on my mind. It's always on my mind--what he's going through, what he's up against... But... there's something else.
HOPE: Something else? What is it?
JENNIFER: I just... (quietly) It's times like this when I wish... that my mother could be here. (sighs) You know all these years I had taught myself not to miss her. I told myself that I never really formed much of a bond with her because she was put away when I was so young... But the truth is, Hope, even though I had to grow up without her--even though she couldn't be there for me--she's still my mother. And I still love her, and it still hurts to think that she can't be here to share this with me.
HOPE: I know how you feel.
JENNIFER: (looks up at her) Yeah, I guess you do, don't you? (beat) Do you ever fantasize about what it would be like? To have your mom around?
HOPE: (smiles) All the time. I think about what it would have been like for her to meet Bo. And to see Shawn-D being born, and J.T. That's probably what hurts the most, that she never got to see her grandsons.
JENNIFER: I've told Mom about Abby. But I have to wonder how much she knows, if she can even understand... And Abby... I think about it sometimes, about taking her to visit Mom, but she's still so young and I don't know, I don't want to scare her...
She does not say anything for a while. HOPE reaches out to hug her.
HOPE: Hey, you know what Gran says all the time? We Horton women are strong women.
JENNIFER: (cracking a smile) Oh, is that why our men are so intimidated by us.
HOPE: (laughs) To tell you the truth, I think they like it. (beat) We're going to be fine, Jen. You and I. We're going to live each moment to the fullest and be happy. I think that's what our mothers would want, right?
JENNIFER: (smiles and nods) Yeah. (hugs HOPE) Thank you...
OUT on their hug.
SCENE 6
CUT TO: JACK AND JO
JO wants to know if it's true that JACK and JENNIFER really are getting married again.
JO: Jack? Are you still there?
JACK: Oh yes, I'm... still here...
JO: Well, please put me out of my misery here, son. Is it true? Have you and Jennifer gotten back together? Are you getting married?
JACK slowly breaks into a smile.
JACK: Uh... yes... Yes, it is true. That's actually why I called--why I meant to call, anyway. (laughs) Abigail just beat me to it.
JO: Oh, Jack!! I've prayed for this to happen and now it finally has! I am so happy for you and Jennifer...
She is really excited and gets a little loud. JACK winces and takes the phone away from his ear a little, then places it back.
JACK: (smiles) So you approve.
JO: (laughing) Oh, you... I have been waiting for this day to come ever since you came back to Salem six years ago, Jack. And now it's finally happened and it's a dream come true. I always knew it would happen, just like Justin and Adrienne found their way back to each other, just like Steve and Kayla did.
JACK: I suppose it has become a Johnson tradition to marry the same person twice, isn't it?
JO: What I hope has become a Johnson tradition is finding happiness, son. Because we all do deserve it, don't we?
JACK: Indeed.
JO: I still can't believe it! I mean we were just there last week, and now...
JACK: Yes, it is a bit... sudden, isn't it?
JO: Well, you two have been waiting six years, but... yes, I suppose after what's happened in the last few months it does seem a little out of the blue.
JACK: (clears throat) Then I think I can safely anticipate your reaction to what I'm about to tell you next.
JO: (worried) What?
JACK: Well, um... in keeping with the theme of a whirlwind proposal, we thought we would also have a... whirlwind wedding.
JO: A whirlwind wedding... Jack, how soon is this wedding?
JACK: (mumbles) Four weeks.
JO: What was that? I couldn't quite hear you, son.
JACK: (a little more clearly) Four weeks.
JO: Four weeks! That's right around...
JACK: New Year's Eve, yes. New Year's Eve is when we were planning to tie the proverbial knot.
JO: Oh my, that's right around the corner-
JACK: I know it's rather short notice here, and it's murder to get plane tickets for the holiday season this late in the game, so believe me, I will not be offended in the least if you and Adrienne can not be here in person-
JO: Jack, don't be ridiculous! Of course we'll be there!
JACK: You will?
JO: Yes!
JACK smiles. He is happy to hear his family will be there, even though he can't admit it.
JACK: Well, good. It would really mean a lot to me--I-I mean, Jennifer and the child, if you could come. (beat) And it would me a lot to me too.
JO: (touched) I wouldn't miss it for the world.
JACK simply smiles.
SCENE 7
INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - LATER
JENNIFER gets home from CALLIOPE'S and finds JACK working in the living room.
JENNIFER: (smiles as she watches him) Hi... (gives him a kiss) Miss me?
JACK: Well, as a matter of fact... Yes. See, I don't think this paragraph flows quite right-
JENNIFER: Jack!
She swats him on the arm, but he pulls her onto his lap and they fall backward onto the couch, laughing and kissing. JENNIFER is on top of him and they lock eyes for a while, until finally JACK breaks the silence.
JACK: I am glad you're home, Miss Horton.
JENNIFER smiles and thinks about correcting him, but doesn't.
JENNIFER: Me too, Jack. (reaches down and they kiss tenderly, then she lays her head on top of his chest) Me too...
EPISODE 24
SCENE 1
INT. THE SPECTATOR - DAY (TWO DAYS AFTER EPISODE 23)
JACK has come by to visit VERN. As he walks through the office, he is overwhelmed with memories of his time here. It is still painful for him to remember how he lost the paper, and he is distracted thinking about it when KATE spots him.
KATE: (coming up behind him) Jack?
JACK recognizes the voice instantly and slowly turns around to face her.
JACK: (dryly) Kate.
KATE: Jack, I thought it was you! It's so good to see you again--it's been years!
JACK: Yes, it has been quite a while.
It is still difficult for him to see her, remembering how she had once betrayed him.
KATE: (noting his less-than-thrilled reaction towards her) I must admit I'm a little surprised to see you here, of all places.
JACK: That's funny, Kate--you see, I was about to say the same thing to you. My sources have told me that you normally can't be bothered with what goes on around here.
KATE: (stung, but tries to play it off) Well, I see you still don't pull any punches, do you?
JACK: No, I guess you could say that was never my forte. (beat) Speaking of which, back-stabbing sure is yours, isn't it?
KATE: (gives him a cool smile) My, my, I see that memory of yours is fairly selective. And here I thought we were on good terms after Titan acquired The Spectator. I even helped you out when your daughter was sick, don't you remember? And as I recall, you were quite grateful at the time.
JACK visibly tenses when she mentions ABBY.
KATE: As a matter of fact, it was my own son that saved her life.
JACK: Yes, I remember that. I also remember you promising to keep Victor from getting his hands on this newspaper and hurting my family. We all know what happened with those promises, don't we?
KATE: (shaking her head) Oh, Jack... Has anyone ever told you that it isn't healthy to hold a grudge for the rest of your life?
Her choice of words unexpectedly strike a nerve in JACK, and he gets a bit flustered.
JACK: (clears throat) Well, it has been very... interesting shooting the breeze with you, Kate. (sees VERN coming towards them and nods towards him) But if you'll excuse me, I came here to see Vern.
KATE: (enjoying seeing him off his game a little) Far be it from me to keep you, then. (begins to walk away, then turns around) I certainly hope this isn't the last we'll be seeing each other, Jack. (to VERN, who has just arrived) You have a visitor, Mr. Scofield. (looks at JACK as she talks to VERN) Try not to take too much valuable company time entertaining him, would you?
VERN gives her a puzzled look and looks at JACK.
VERN: (after KATE is out of earshot) What was that all about, Jack?
OUT on JACK still fuming.
SCENE 2
EXT. A CEMETERY - SAME
JENNIFER stands in front of STEVE'S headstone. She is carrying a bouquet of white lilies, and lays them down on his grave. She has not been to STEVE'S grave in years, but she has felt the need to come today and visit him so she can tell him about her and JACK.
JENNIFER: (softly, sadly) Hi, Steve...
The wind is blowing hard and it is snowing lightly, so she hugs herself to keep warm as she looks down on his grave.
JENNIFER: I haven't been here in a long time... Not since the last time I came here with Jack right before we left for Africa. (smiles) I used to just stand back, whenever I would come here with him. I would never really say anything, because I knew Jack just needed to be alone with you and feel your presence. (beat) But today I just... I just really needed to come here and talk to you myself. I really needed to tell you something, Steve...
SCENE 3
CUT TO: JACK AND VERN
JACK is visiting VERN but is still reeling from his not-so-pleasant encounter with KATE.
VERN: You know, if you stare down the hallway long enough, I think daggers are going to start shooting out of your eyes.
JACK: (realizing VERN was talking to him) Hmm?
VERN: (amused) I said the steam coming out of your ears is going to set off the fire alarm soon.
JACK smirks.
VERN: Well, I'm sorry, Jack, but if I had had advanced notice that you were coming today, I would have given you plenty of warning that today is usually the day Kate comes in to-
JACK: Crack the whip?
VERN: (laughs) Uh, yeah, something like that. I mean, I know how much you love to... chat with her.
JACK: Yes, I can't think of a better way to spend my morning. In fact, I think the only thing better would be to pal around with my favorite person in the world, Victor Kiriakis.
VERN: (choking) Oh, I think I can guarantee you that you'll have no chance of running into him here.
JACK: Oh good, so there is still a chance salvaging what's left of my already tarnished morning.
VERN: (observing JACK, sees he's a little run down again and is worried) So... how are you feeling?
JACK: Under the circumstances, fine.
VERN: Oh.
JACK: Oh?
VERN: Well, I just, you know... I thought you looked a little wiped out, that's all.
JACK: Going ten rounds with Kate will do that to a person.
VERN: No, I meant-
JACK: (cutting him off) I knew what you meant. I'm fine, really, thank you for asking. I'm just fighting off a cold, no big deal.
VERN: Oh, good, so it's just a cold. I thought that it was... well, you know, something else.
JACK: No, it's not something else, Vern.
Both men stand there, looking at each other in awkward silence, while people are buzzing all around them, working.
VERN and JACK: (simultaneously) So...
VERN: (before JACK can say something else) All right, I'll bite--what are you doing here, Jack?
JACK gives him a sheepish smile.
SCENE 4
CUT TO: JENNIFER
JENNIFER has come to visit STEVE and is about to tell him about her and JACK.
JENNIFER: (laughing softly) Don't worry, I didn't come here to give you bad news. In fact, I haven't been this happy about something in a long time...
She slowly crouches down in front of his headstone. All around her, it continues to snow. She brushes the snow away from the lilies she brought him.
JENNIFER: I know you and I never got the chance to really get to know each other, before... (she is overcome with sadness thinking of STEVE'S death) But I have a feeling we would have been very close if we had. I think loving Jack would have brought us together...
She straightens.
JENNIFER: I know I owe you a great deal for your part in getting me and Jack together. (smiles) You didn't think I knew, did you? But I did. I did, Steve. I knew how much Jack looked up to you, and how he wanted to make you proud of him. And because of that, he was finally able to believe he really was a good person. He was able to open himself up to me and let me love him.
She begins to cry, and wipes the tears from her eyes.
JENNIFER: You would have been proud of him, Steve. I know you've been watching him, and you've seen everything he's been able to do with his life. And I know you've been watching over him, too, just like you promised you would. I know you have, because you brought him back to me and Abby. You made sure he would have the people who love him in his life, didn't you?
She looks up at the sky.
JENNIFER: I know you'll keep on looking after him, Steve. Especially now. I feel so hopeful about the future... I don't really know how to explain it or where all of these feelings are even coming from, but I just know Jack's going to be all right. (smiles) You'll make sure of that. I know you won't let anything happen to your baby brother.
She takes a deep breath and closes her eyes.
JENNIFER: (to herself) I know you'll be all right, Jack. You will.
SCENE 5
CUT TO: JACK AND VERN
JACK and VERN have moved into VERN'S office. VERN is curious to know why JACK has come to visit him.
VERN: Do you plan to keep me in suspense much longer? You know, the longer you keep me guessing, the more nervous I get.
JACK: Oh come on, Vern. What possible reason could you have to get nervous around me?
VERN: (giving him a look) Do the words "Deveraux" and "scheming" mean anything to you?
JACK: (feigning innocence) I'm sure I haven't the foggiest.
VERN: (rolling his eyes) Whatever you say, Jack.
JACK: All right, you've got me. I suppose you wouldn't believe me if I told you I was just in the neighborhood and decided to drop by?
VERN shakes his head.
JACK: (laughing nervously) I'll take that as a no... (begins to fiddle with the tape dispenser on VERN'S desk; he is very nervous about what he is about to say to VERN) Well, um... you guessed correctly, Vern. I did come here for a specific purpose.
VERN: (a little worried) And that is? (before JACK can answer) And please, before you say anything, tell me it won't involve anything illegal, immoral, or anything else that might get me ostracized here in town.
JACK: (smirks) I am utterly overwhelmed by your faith in me, Vern.
VERN shrugs.
JACK: All right, here it is. I wanted to let you know that, uh... well, Miss Horton and I are getting married. Again.
VERN: (smiles) Oh, that's what you came here to tell me?
JACK: Yes... (furrows his brow) You don't seem all that surprised.
VERN: Well, I already knew.
JACK: What do you mean you already knew?
VERN: Oh, I found out from Jo--ennifer... Jennifer called me the other day to give me the fantastic news!
JACK: (hearing VERN'S slip) You've always been a terrible liar.
VERN: Excuse me?
JACK: Oh please, was I not supposed to hear that obvious change of vowels in mid-stream?
VERN: I have no idea what you're talking about, Jack.
JACK: My mother told you, didn't she?
VERN: I told you, Jenny-girl told me-
JACK: I happen to know Jennifer did no such thing.
VERN: (smiles sheepishly) All right, J-Jo told me...
JACK: She did... Well, I should have known. She's never been mistaken for being discreet.
VERN laughs, thinking he's off the hook, but JACK suddenly realizes something.
JACK: Wait a minute, why would she have told you?
VERN: What do you mean why would she have told me? We're friends, Jack.
JACK: (arching an eyebrow) Friends? You and my mother?
VERN: Yes, Jack, hard as it is to believe, your mother and I have... kept in touch since she moved to Texas.
JACK: (sarcastic smile) How nice.
VERN: Congratulations.
JACK: What?
VERN: I didn't get a chance to tell you that earlier before your third degree about me and your mother--congratulations on you and Jennifer.
JACK: Thank you... Thank you, Vern...
He needs to tell VERN something else, and is really nervous now.
VERN: What?
JACK: I, um... Well, there's something else I needed to tell you. (beat) Actually, it's something I need to ask.
VERN: (curious) What is it, Jack?
JACK: Uh... I suppose I should preface this by saying that you are entirely free to turn me down on this. I mean, I don't want you to feel obligated in any way-
VERN: Would you just spit it out?
JACK: (takes a deep breath) I would... be very honored, if you would...
VERN listens intently, and urges him to continue.
JACK: If you would... be my best man.
VERN is stunned. He was not expecting this at all, and is incredibly touched and overwhelmed that JACK would ask him.
VERN: Jack, you... you mean it? You really want me to be your best man?
JACK is embarrassed and is hoping VERN says yes.
JACK: Well... yes. (sincerely) You've been there since the beginning of our, uh... courtship. Non-traditional though it may have been. I would really love to have you stand there by my side on that day.
VERN: (emotional) I... Jack, I can't believe you just asked me to do this. (smiles) Of course I'll do it!
JACK: (smiles back) Splendid. (exhales in relief) Splendid.
SCENE 6
EXT. THE SALEM PIER - LATER
JENNIFER has left the cemetery and has come to the pier to walk around and gather her thoughts. JACK is coming down the steps and sees her.
JACK: (circling his arms around her from behind) Fancy meeting you here...
JENNIFER: (startled, gasps) Jack! (turns around to face him) You scared me!
JACK: (mock frown) Well, that was not quite the reaction I was expecting from my lovely fiancée.
JENNIFER: (grins) Oh, I see. And what were you expecting?
JACK places his index finger on his chin and pretends to think.
JACK: I had something more like... this... (kisses her tenderly) in mind...
JENNIFER: Mmm... Oh, that.
JACK: Yes, that.
JENNIFER: Next time, don't scare me half to death, and I will be more than happy to give my once and future husband a proper hello. (kisses him again) So what are you doing here?
JACK: I just came from The Spectator.
JENNIFER: You talked to Vern?
JACK: Yes, and did you know he and Jo correspond with each other-
JENNIFER: Forget about that, Jack, what did he say?
JACK: What do you mean, forget about it--wait a minute, did you know that they had kept in touch?
JENNIFER: Jack, what did he say? Is he going to be your best man?
JACK: (smiles) Yes. Yes, he said he would do it.
JENNIFER: (throwing her arms around him in excitement) Oh, that's so wonderful, Jack!! Everything's coming together, this is great... I was worried that we might not be able to get everything done in time, but so far we're right on schedule-
She notices JACK is staring at something in the far distance.
JENNIFER: What is it, Jack?
JACK: Hmm? Oh, I was just looking at the island over there.
JENNIFER: (looking in the direction he was looking) The island... (smiles) Gosh, it's been so long since we were there, hasn't it?
JACK: As a matter of fact, I remember the very last time we went there, which also happened to be the only time we had ever gone there.
They think back on the day they went to the island on the lake.
FLASHBACK - SEVEN YEARS EARLIER
EXT. AN ISLAND ON THE LAKE - NIGHT
JACK has taken JENNIFER fishing by moonlight to get her mind off ABBY who has been very sick lately. They have managed to fall overboard while in the boat, but are now on an island on the lake, where JACK has built a fire and they are cooking the fish they caught.
JACK: Well I think we've finally cured his appetite for worms. I tell you, if I was ever going to be washed up, I want to be washed up with you, Jennifer. And I'd like to washed up on this island.
JENNIFER: You know, I've been here once before actually.
JACK: (disappointed) This wasn't your first time? (beat) When?
JENNIFER: Well, it was a summer night a lot like tonight.
JACK: (trying not to let his disappointment show) I see. (beat) Well, I take it you weren't washed up alone either?
JENNIFER: No I wasn't. And if you take a look at that tree over there, (points to the tree) you'll see a lot of initials carved in it.
JACK goes to look at the tree.
JACK: Yes, looks like a good time.
JENNIFER: Let's go take a look. Look there, there's Steve Johnson and Kayla Brady... Mike Horton and April Ramirez.
JACK: Uh huh...
JENNIFER: And then there's that JH and.... FB.
JACK: (putting two and two together) FB. JH obviously is Jennifer Horton and FB....
JENNIFER: (smiling) Frankie Brady.
JACK: Francoise! So the worm turns yet again.
JENNIFER: (enjoying his reaction) Well, I love it when you're jealous.
JACK arches his eyebrows.
JENNIFER: Actually we were very innocent in those days, Jack.
JACK: You're still innocent.... Thank goodness.
JENNIFER: Yes, thank goodness. You know there is one more thing that can make tonight very special.
JACK: What's that?
JENNIFER: Hold on.
She goes to get a knife from the campsite. JACK sees what she's doing.
JACK: (deadpans) You're going to kill me. You're going to split me like the fish. No, I know what you want me to do--you want me to deface that tree.
JENNIFER: (smiling) Please?
JACK hesitates.
JENNIFER: Jack, it's a lover's tree. There's a lot of initials on it.
JACK: Yeah, a lot of initials. They may not just have all been lovers. Could have been a pirate or two.
JENNIFER: A pirate on an island in a lake?
JACK: Well, you never know. I mean who knows? Maybe they even have a little buried treasure around here. Maybe even.... ah.... where you're standing.
JENNIFER: Oh yes, I'm sure there's a big buried treasure under my feet.
JACK: Maybe even exactly where you're standing. (she does not get the hint, so he repeats himself) Right where you're standing!
JENNIFER: What do you mean? (bends down to look)
JACK: I mean right where you're standing.
JENNIFER: (digging through the sand) Oh my gosh, I think I found something!
JACK: (pleased) Well, fancy that.
JENNIFER opens the box and sees a set of pearl earrings.
JENNIFER: Oh, Jack! They are so beautiful...
JACK: Yes they are. It'll teach you not to doubt an old pirate.... Gawd blimey!
JENNIFER: I will never doubt you. I will never ever doubt you ever again.
They hug, then go to sit by the fire.
JENNIFER: Thank you.
JACK: Huh?
JENNIFER: Thank you for this night, because I will remember it as long as I live.
JACK: I tell you something, we're going to come back here someday, the three of us.
JENNIFER: Mmm...
JACK: And we're going to show our child that tree and all those carvings on it. We're going to show her where her mother found first love... and we both found true love. Carved in the tree.
JENNIFER: (smiles) One crazy night in June 1993. You know I think this is a date that's going to go down in history...
BACK TO PRESENT DAY
JACK is standing behind JENNIFER, with his arms around her waist. He laughs softly at the memory.
JACK: Quite a night we had there, didn't we?
JENNIFER: Yeah...
Suddenly, something occurs to her, and she turns around to face him.
JENNIFER: Jack, that's it!
JACK: (confused) What's it?
JENNIFER: That's where we should get married. On the island! I can't think of any place more perfect, can you?
JACK: (thinks about it for a bit, then breaks into a smile) No, I guess I can't. (looks down at her lovingly, then kisses her) So, one island wedding coming up?
JENNIFER: (smiles) Absolutely. (turns back around and leans back against his chest) It's going to be the perfect wedding, Jack.
OUT on JACK and JENNIFER as they stare out into the distance at the island.
EPISODE 25
SCENE 1
INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT (A FEW DAYS AFTER EPISODE 24)
At JACK'S insistence, JACK and JENNIFER are working on their book. JENNIFER is worried about him exhausting himself by working so hard when he has been nursing a cold in the last few days, and she has been watching him carefully. However, JACK does not want to slow down. As it gets closer and closer to the day he will find out the results of his latest round of chemo, JACK has been even more driven than usual, hoping to distract himself from thinking about it too much.
JACK: (sensing that JENNIFER has been looking at him for some time now as they have been working) Uh, Jennifer?
JENNIFER: Yeah?
JACK: (without looking up from the laptop) Tell me, how were you planning on helping me edit this paragraph without ever looking at the computer screen?
JENNIFER: You know, maybe it's time we called it a night, what do you say?
She begins to close the laptop, but JACK gets his hand in the way and unfolds the screen.
JACK: This early?
JENNIFER: Jack, it's 11:30. (tries to close the laptop again)
JACK: Just what I said. (opens it up again) It's early.
JENNIFER: Don't you think you're pushing yourself a little too hard lately?
JACK: (firmly) No, Jennifer, I don't. (beat) Any more objections?
JENNIFER: Look, our deadline isn't for another six weeks--what's the rush? Can't we just-
JACK: I am not rushing! I am merely trying to ensure that we stick to the pace we established on the outset. Do we have to fight about this, too?
JENNIFER thinks she understands why he is so touchy about this, but does not want to push him and cause even more stress for him, because she knows that would only make things worse.
JENNIFER: (softly) Fine, Jack. (starts to get up) I'm going to go make us some coffee if we're going to pull an all-nighter-
JACK: (feeling guilty for taking his frustration out on her, takes hold of her arm) Jennifer, wait...
JENNIFER stops and looks at him, then slowly sits back down again.
JACK: (sincerely) I'm sorry. I know I'm being intolerable right now. (beat) Mea culpa.
JENNIFER: (sighs) Jack, I just... worry about you...
JACK: I know. And I know I'm not making it very easy on you. (smiles) I would probably wear out Mother Theresa's abundant patience.
JENNIFER: (smiles back at him) Just a little.
JACK: Well, you're right, I mean it's not like we'll get behind if we leave things off here. I guess we can pick it up tomorrow.
JENNIFER: (relieved) Yes... Tomorrow, we'll definitely pick up where we left off tonight. You know what, why don't you head upstairs and I'll go straighten things out here and meet you up there?
JACK: All right. (gives her a quick kiss) I'll see you up there in a bit.
JENNIFER: Okay...
JACK heads upstairs while JENNIFER stays behind to clean up their mess. After several minutes, she goes to their bedroom and sees JACK sitting at the edge of their bed, leaning over. His shoulders are heaving and she can hear him taking in gulps of air.
JENNIFER: (panicking) Jack? Jack!! Oh my God...
She rushes to his side and helps him straighten up. She can tell he is having difficulty breathing.
JACK: (not wanting to worry her) I'm fine... It just feels like a ten ton elephant is sitting on my chest, that's all-
JENNIFER: Jack, you are not fine! (touches his face, his forehead) Oh my God, you're burning up... (reaches for the phone)
JACK: It's just a fever, don't panic-
JENNIFER: (starts to dial) Listen to me, I am going to call the hospital, all right?! (into the phone) Hello? Yes, this is Jennifer Deveraux...
JACK: No! (tries to take the phone from her, but she keeps it away) Come on, there's no need for hospitals-
JENNIFER: Yes, I am bringing my husband in... He's got a really high fever and he's having difficulty breathing... All right, we'll be right there, thank you...
JACK: Jennifer-
JENNIFER: Jack, don't try to bully your way out of this one--you are going to the hospital, do you understand?
She is shaking and fighting with all of her strength to keep from crying because she knows she needs to be strong.
OUT on JENNIFER'S determination.
SCENE 2
INT. SALEM UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL - LATER
JENNIFER has brought JACK to the hospital because he was having problems breathing. She watches as the doctors rush him into the ER, holding onto ABBY, whom she had no choice but to bring because there was no time to drop her off at ALICE'S or HOPE'S. ABBY is scared and confused by the chaos, but she watches everything in silence, not wanting to upset her mother even more.
HOPE: (just arrived and immediately rushes over to JENNIFER and hugs her) Jen...
JENNIFER: (whispers so ABBY does not hear and get upset) Oh my God, Hope, I'm so glad you're here...
HOPE: Of course... (pulls away, takes JENNIFER'S face in her hands) Are you all right? Have they told you anything?
JENNIFER: (shaking her head) No, we just got here... They brought him inside to examine him, but... (she hears her voice begin to break, so she stops herself)
HOPE: Abby, sweetie, are you tired? It's way past your bedtime, isn't it?
JENNIFER squeezes ABBY tightly.
ABBY: I'm okay, Aunt Hope. I just want Daddy to be okay...
JENNIFER: (crouching down so she is eye level with ABBY) Baby, he's going to be fine... He's going to be just fine... Don't you worry, all right? The doctors are going to take good care of him...
HOPE: Jen, why don't I go take her into the staff lounge so she can go lie down on the couch?
JENNIFER: (flustered) Uh... Yeah, that's probably a good idea... Thanks, Hope.
HOPE: Absolutely. (hugs JENNIFER, then goes with ABBY to the lounge)
JENNIFER spots CRAIG coming out of the ER, and she goes straight to him.
JENNIFER: Dr. Wesley, how is he? What's going on? Does this have something to do with his chemo? What is it-
CRAIG: Mrs. Deveraux, it's all right, please, relax... You did the right thing by bringing him in right away.
JENNIFER: Please, just tell me what it is...
CRAIG: His immune system is very weak because of the chemo. The cold he's had has developed into a mild case of pneumonia-
JENNIFER: (gasps) Oh my God-
CRAIG: He's going to be fine, I promise. We're going to admit him overnight and give him antibiotics, and if he responds well, he should be able to go home tomorrow. He'll just continue the antibiotics at home.
JENNIFER: Are you sure?
CRAIG: Yes, we're going to make sure he'll be all right, I don't want you to worry. (beat) If you'll excuse me, I need to go finish his chart, so we can get him started on those meds.
JENNIFER: Oh, yes, of course...
She is still shaking from the whole ordeal and isn't quite sure everything is going to be fine even though CRAIG has assured her it will. HOPE comes out and touches JENNIFER'S shoulder.
JENNIFER: Hope... Is Abby-
HOPE: Abby's just fine... She fell asleep right away, even though she swore up and down she wasn't tired...
JENNIFER smiles weakly.
HOPE: I thought it would be okay to leave her in there for just a second so I could see if you were all right. (beat) Are you?
JENNIFER: (shaking her head) No, Hope. I'm not all right. (begins to blather) I am so worried about him--I mean, they tell me he's going to be fine, but-
HOPE: Good, that's good news then, right?
JENNIFER: Hope, he's got pneumonia, how can he be fine?
She takes a deep breath. She knows she has to relax and be strong for ABBY, but she can not stop worrying.
JENNIFER: Could you do me a favor and watch Abby for a little bit longer? I need to go do something right now... It's really important...
HOPE: Of course. Don't you worry about Abby, I'll take care of her. (gives JENNIFER another hug) You just makes sure you take care of yourself, all right?
JENNIFER nods, and HOPE watches as she walks away.
SCENE 3
INT. SALEM UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL - LATER
JENNIFER is at a payphone. She is calling MIKE, who has been on a year-long sabbatical in New York. She has been crying and is completely exhausted, but does not want to hang up until he answers.
CUT TO: MIKE ANSWERING THE PHONE
MIKE: (groggily) Hello?
JENNIFER: Mike? Mike, it's me...
MIKE: Squirt?
JENNIFER: I'm so sorry to wake you, but-
MIKE: (starting to wake up now) Hey, what's the matter? Are you crying? What's going on, is it Jack?
JENNIFER: (cries even more) Yeah, it's Jack...
MIKE: Jen, tell me what it is. Let me help you.
JENNIFER: I had to rush him to the hospital tonight, Mike... He couldn't breathe, and... (crying really hard, can't get the words out)
MIKE: All right, listen to me--you did the right thing by taking him there, okay? He's in good hands. Now, just take a deep breath for me, can you do that?
JENNIFER does what he tells her to do, but she is still shaking. She tries her best to calm down.
MIKE: Can you tell me what happened?
JENNIFER: Abby had a cold last week and we both caught it. I shouldn't have passed it off like it wasn't a big deal-
MIKE: So he got the cold?
JENNIFER: Yeah... And he seemed to be getting better, but then tonight he started to have trouble breathing, and I took him here as soon as I could...
MIKE: Good, that's good... You did the right thing, Squirt.
JENNIFER: They told me he's got pneumonia, Mike.
MIKE: That happens sometimes. His resistance is really low, and he's susceptible to infections, but you did the right thing by getting him to the hospital right away. Did they start him on the meds yet?
JENNIFER: Yeah, I think so...
MIKE: Good. He'll be all right, Jen, trust me. They'll take good care of him.
JENNIFER begins to cry again.
MIKE: Sweetheart, it's okay, really...
JENNIFER: I just wish you were the one taking care of him, Mike. I trust you--you're the one who took care of him last time, and he got better... I need him to get better...
MIKE: I know. I know what you're going through...
JENNIFER suddenly remembers that MIKE'S wife, MARGO, had also had leukemia and died from it. She feels guilty for bringing up bad memories for MIKE and begins to cry even harder now.
MIKE: Dr. Patrick is the Chief of Oncology there, Squirt. He's the best there is, I promise. The only thing I've got that he doesn't is excellent taste in ties.
JENNIFER laughs at this, in spite of herself.
JENNIFER: Things were just starting to come together for us. We were finally going to get things right...
MIKE: I know. And you still will. Look, the research we've been doing here has told us that treatments are really promising now. We've come a long way in thirteen years. He beat it then, and he'll beat it now. (beat) You've got a real fighter there, Squirt. I know he'll do his damndest for you and Abby. Don't you forget that.
JENNIFER: I hope so, Mike... I hope so.
MIKE: I know so.
OUT on JENNIFER as she leans against the payphone and cries.
SCENE 4
INT. JACK'S HOSPITAL ROOM - LATER
JENNIFER is watching JACK as he is sleeping, with IV's hooked up to him. ABBY is sleeping in her arms and she is gently stroking ABBY'S hair. She herself is exhausted, but she does not want to stop watching him for even a second.
ABBY: (beginning to stir in JENNIFER'S arms) Mommy?
JENNIFER: Yeah, baby?
ABBY: (scared) Is Daddy going to be okay? Why isn't he saying anything?
JENNIFER: Shh... He's fine, he's just sleeping right now. The doctors want him to sleep so he can get all better.
ABBY: (looks at JACK, then looks at JENNIFER) It's my fault, isn't it?
JENNIFER: What? No! No, Abby, it is not your fault in any way, why would you even think that?
ABBY: Because I'm the one who had a cold. He caught it from me, and now he's-
JENNIFER: Sweetie, listen to me--you are not to blame for this, all right?
ABBY: But-
JENNIFER: No buts... You didn't do a single thing wrong. It isn't your fault that Daddy's in the hospital, and I don't ever want you to think it is, do you understand?
ABBY: (softly) Is he going to be okay?
JENNIFER: (taking ABBY into her arms and kissing the top of her head) Yes, he's going to be okay... He's going to be okay...
JACK starts to wake up and sees JENNIFER and ABBY by his bedside.
JACK: (weakly) Hey, is this a private party, or can anyone join?
JENNIFER: Jack!
ABBY: (overlapping) Daddy!
JENNIFER: It's okay, don't push yourself, all right? Dr. Wesley said you need to just rest...
JACK: Rest, schmest... Rest is for sick people--right, kiddo?
ABBY laughs.
JACK: That's what I thought. I'll just spend the night here at Hotel Bedpans so I don't have to contend with your mother tossing and turning all night. (JENNIFER smiles at this comment) But I'll be fine.
JENNIFER: Yeah, you will be...
She caresses his forehead, then leans over to kiss him.
OUT in JENNIFER as she holds onto ABBY and watches over JACK.
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