In This Life

by Jennifer

Episodes 26 - 30

 

EPISODE 26

SCENE 1

INT. SALEM UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL - DAY (A WEEK AFTER EPISODE 25)

JACK is in the staff lounge, getting coffee. It has been a few days since he had to spend the night in the hospital. He has recovered from the pneumonia and is feeling a little stronger, but today is finally the day when he will be meeting with DR. PATRICK to get the results of his latest round of chemo. He is anxious about finding out and is not really sure anymore whether to expect good news or bad news.

A nurse walks in and sees JACK drinking coffee. She gives him a strange look for being in the staff lounge.

JACK: (laughing nervously) Good morning.

NURSE: (eyeing him with suspicion) Do you work here?

JACK: (fiddling with his tie) Uh... no.

NURSE: Then you can't be in here-

JACK: Look, I was once on the board right here at University Hospital... I believe that gives me lifetime privileges to the coffee here?

He smiles, but she does not laugh at his joke and just leaves. As she goes out the door, JACK raises his cup to her in annoyance.

JACK: And you have a nice day too.

He picks up a newspaper that someone left on the counter, but sees it is THE CHRONICLE and rolls his eyes and puts it back. He hears the door behind him open and assumes it's a doctor or another nurse.

JACK: (without turning around) All right, all right, I know I'm not supposed to be in here, but-

ALICE: (laughs) Oh, Jack... You are a wonder!

JACK turns around when he hears her voice.

JACK: Mrs. Horton!

ALICE: Don't worry, if they try to kick you out of here, I'll just tell them you're with me--how's that?

JACK smiles.

ALICE: So, how are you feeling these days? You gave us all a scare last week.

JACK: To tell you the truth, I gave myself quite a scare last week. But I'm up and about again, good as new. Well... not quite good as new, but... (weak smile) sufficient enough, I suppose.

He grows quiet, once again remembering his appointment later with DR. PATRICK. ALICE notes his silence and guesses why.

ALICE: Today's the day you find out your results, isn't it?

JACK nods without saying anything.

ALICE: What time is your appointment?

JACK: It's not for another hour and a half. (laughs) You know me, never late for anything. Well, except my own wedding, but I had an excuse-

ALICE: (smiling) Jack, darling, it's all right. You don't have to put up a brave front for me. I know how anxious you must be.

JACK: (pretends to wave it off) Oh, on the contrary, Mrs. Horton. This is all just routine to me now. I've been through the whole process many times before. It's really second nature at this point.

ALICE: (knowing he's lying, but not wanting to put him on the spot) Is Jennifer here?

JACK: (clears throat) No, she's coming later. She had volunteered a few weeks ago to chaperone a field trip at Abigail's school, and unfortunately she couldn't get out of it. She'll meet me here before my appointment.

Nervously, he squeezes the empty coffee cup in his hand and tosses it in the garbage. He is avoiding ALICE'S eyes because he knows she will be able to tell how scared he is.

JACK: (begins to ramble) You know something? This room could use a bit of a facelift. This color is really... well, it's right out of the 80's, it's-

ALICE: Jack...

JACK: I mean it looks exactly the same as the last time I was in here--stealing the staff coffee, of course, just as I always do (laughs). I'm really surprised they haven't tried to kick me out of here before-

ALICE: Jack!

She touches his arm, and he finally stops babbling. He slowly looks at her, and she gives him a smile.

ALICE: Darling, I can tell you need someone to talk to right now. Why don't you talk to me?

OUT on JACK'S discomfort.

 

SCENE 2

IN PROGRESS

ALICE knows JACK needs someone to talk to right now, but JACK is uncomfortable talking about any of this.

JACK: (nervous laugh) Uh... You really shouldn't feel obligated to humor me, Mrs. Horton-

ALICE: I'm not humoring you-

JACK: Really, it's fine, I mean, I already talked to my mother this morning and she gave me the requisite pep talk, and-

ALICE: Jack!

JACK: Y-Yes... Yes?

ALICE: I know how difficult it is for you to open up to people. But I'd like to think I'm not just anyone, Jack. We're family. You're like a grandson to me, and... I love you.

JACK is touched to hear this, but also embarrassed.

ALICE: I'd like to help you if I can. If you'll let me. (beat) Will you let me?

JACK: That's... really very kind of you, Mrs. Horton.

ALICE: I'd do the same for any one of my grandchildren if they needed me.

JACK turns away from her and begins to fiddle with the tower of coffee cups.

ALICE: Jack? Are you scared?

JACK: No, not really... (decides to give up the pretense, sighs) All right yes, a little. A lot. A whole lot.

He slowly turns around to face her.

JACK: But I'm not really scared for myself. I mean, surprisingly, I've come to terms with the possibility of dying, I have. (laughs) I mean we all have to die sometime, right?

ALICE is hurting for him as she listens to him speak.

JACK: That's not really what bothers me. But what I do spend nights thinking about is... the people I leave behind... That's my M.O., isn't it? I leave when the going gets tough, and the poor, unfortunate souls I leave in my wake are the ones cursed to pick up the pieces. Clean up my mess. (beat) I always leave behind a mess...

ALICE: What you will leave behind--when the time comes, and I do believe that time isn't for a long time from now--is a legacy, Jack. You will leave behind people who love you and will miss you always. Not a mess to clean up-

JACK: Oh come now, Mrs. Horton, let's be perfectly honest. Let's review my track record, shall we? What happened the first time I left? The newspaper I loved got run into the ground and my wife had to use up her trust fund to keep it from sinking. I almost lost her too, but somehow I was lucky enough that she forgave me and took me back. Then there was the next time, when I left her and our daughter--just when they needed me the most. I drove my mother to go live with my sister because I wasn't there for her. And still, I was somehow given another chance to get my act together and what did I do? I blew it again. I kept my wi--Jennifer in the dark for months. Months. I just couldn't let her know what was going on with me and once again I hurt her when I've promised her over and over I wouldn't.

ALICE: Jennifer understood each time, Jack. She loves you, and she's given you those chances willingly-

JACK: Even though I didn't deserve them.

ALICE: (touches his arm) No, Jack, that's where you're wrong. You did deserve them. It's always been hard for you to see it, but you are a good person. Someone who deserves happiness.

JACK: So do they, Mrs. Horton. Jennifer. Abigail. My mother, my sister. So do they. And once again, I may have to leave them-

ALICE: Darling, listen to me. (takes his hands in hers) This is not your fault. None of this is your fault, and none of this is in your hands. All we can do is pray.

JACK: (smiles) Well, I don't think I'm someone the man upstairs is going to want to hear from-

ALICE: I'm going to pray, Jennifer is going to pray--we're all going to pray, do you understand? Miracles happen all the time, Jack. And if there's anyone who deserves one, it's you.

JACK starts to say something, but she interrupts him.

ALICE: Now, I've got some patients to visit... So I want you to promise me something.

JACK: What's that?

ALICE: That you'll think positively. And you'll come find me as soon as you talk to Dr. Patrick. Will you do that for me?

JACK: How can I resist such a request?

ALICE: (laughs) Good. (kisses him on the cheek) I'll see you later, then.

JACK watches her leave, then he takes a deep breath and pours himself another cup of coffee.

JACK: Nothing like caffeine to calm one's nerves...

He is startled to hear voices behind him.

DUKE: Hey, what are you still doing in here?

HARPER: Yeah, haven't you learned by now that this is a restricted area?

JACK: (not recognizing the voices at first) All right, I'll leave-

He turns around and is shocked to see his two dads standing in front of him, almost spilling his coffee as a result.

JACK: Oh no... Not again...

 

SCENE 3

IN PROGRESS

DUKE and HARPER have materialized again, and JACK is not happy to see them.

JACK: (closing his eyes, muttering to himself) I'm not seeing them, I'm not seeing them... They're just a figment of my twisted imagination...

DUKE: (to HARPER) What's he saying? Why's he acting like we don't exist?

HARPER: I don't know, you'd think a son would be happy to see his fathers. He always was an ingrate...

JACK opens his eyes, and is disappointed that he is still seeing them.

JACK: Oh come on now, I didn't throw thousands of dollars into therapy to get my head sorted out, my karma cleaned just to see you two kooks again!

HARPER: Hey, just who are you calling a kook?

DUKE: Well, we are a little off kilter-

HARPER: Says who? Speak for yourself, you low-life, I am a U.S. Senator-

DUKE: Who are you calling a low-life, you serial killer!

HARPER: Wife-beater!

DUKE: Sterile old-

JACK: Both of you just shut up and leave me alone!

DUKE and HARPER both stop talking at the same time, surprised at JACK'S outburst.

DUKE: Well, what do you know, our boy's finally grown a spine!

HARPER: (impressed) Yes, yes, I've noticed... Oh son, you've finally done it. You've finally made me proud of you!

JACK: (looking away in disgust) You'll excuse me if I don't jump for joy upon hearing that.

They reappear before him. JACK turns away again, but they keep appearing wherever he looks. Finally, JACK gives up and sighs.

JACK: All right, will you please tell me what the hell you're doing here?

DUKE: Jackie boy, I thought we told you never to use the "h" word. He (pointing downwards) doesn't like it.

JACK: I don't give a-

HARPER: Jack, Jack... Don't talk to your father that way.

DUKE: We came to see you because you need us right now.

JACK: (laughs in disbelief) What on earth would make you think that?

HARPER: Son, isn't it obvious? What with you so close to buying the farm, we thought we'd pop up and... reassure you.

JACK: (dryly) About what?

HARPER: About where you'll be going...

He exchanges broad grins with DUKE, then gestures downward. JACK looks down and shakes his head, then begins to back away.

JACK: Oh no... Oh no, no, no... I am not going anywhere where you two are-

DUKE: Oh, Jackie boy, don't be a wuss! It's not so bad down there! All you need is lots of sunscreen...

He and HARPER laugh hysterically.

JACK: Look--first of all, I am not ready to die. I mean, Mrs. Horton just told me that I can't give up hope! And second of all, there is no way that I am going to be rotting in hell-

HARPER: Uh, uh, uh... What did we tell you about using the "h" word? You can't be offending your future landlord, you know-

JACK: I am not about to leave Jennifer and Abigail again, do you understand me? Not if I can help it!

DUKE and HARPER just laugh at him.

JACK: I'm not! I'm not leaving them again!

HARPER: Whatever you say, son... Whatever you say...

DUKE and HARPER continue to laugh hysterically as they begin to fade.

JACK: I'm not...

He realizes they're gone. JENNIFER walks in as JACK continues to stare at the spot where DUKE and HARPER were standing.

JENNIFER: You're not... what, Jack?

JACK: Jennifer...

He reaches for her, and pulls her into a hug, which surprises her.

JENNIFER: Jack, what is it? What's wrong, did you already talk to Dr. Patrick?

JACK: (pulling away to talk to her) No... No, I...

JENNIFER: Jack?

JACK: I'm all right. (takes a deep breath to get his bearings) I'm just... glad you're here.

JENNIFER: Me too. (takes his hand) You ready?

JACK: Ready as I'll ever be.

They walk out the door to go see DR. PATRICK.

 

SCENE 4

INT. DR. PATRICK'S OFFICE - LATER

JACK and JENNIFER are sitting at DR. PATRICK'S desk, holding hands. They are anxiously waiting to hear the results. DR. PATRICK comes in, carrying a folder, and JACK and JENNIFER start to get up, but he gestures for them to stay seated.

DR. PATRICK: No, it's all right, please don't get up. (sits down opposite them and smiles) I know this has been very difficult for you to wait these last couple of weeks. And, not that there's ever an easy time for this, but I know it's been especially tough for you both with this coming during the holidays...

JACK: Yes, it's tough to really celebrate with this hanging over our heads, so to speak.

DR. PATRICK: I understand. And now with Christmas coming up-

JACK: Uh, Dr. Patrick, you'll forgive me if I ask you to cut to the chase, but I think we can skip the formalities now, don't you?

DR. PATRICK: (smiles) You know, you remind me a lot of my brother. He never could wait to hear good news either.

JENNIFER: Good news? Wait--did you just say good news?

DR. PATRICK: Yes, Mrs. Deveraux. Good news. (to JACK) The second round took. (beat) You're in remission.

JENNIFER lets out a small yelp of joy. JACK is just overwhelmed with profound relief and doesn't quite know whether he can believe it yet.

JENNIFER: Is it... I mean, are you absolutely sure...

DR. PATRICK: I can bore you with the exact medical lingo in a little bit, but yes, this is the news I know both of you have been waiting and hoping for. Congratulations, Jack. You've beaten it.

JACK still can not speak. He just looks at DR. PATRICK and smiles, but the emotions just wash over him and he finally starts to cry. He turns to JENNIFER and embraces her tightly, and they both cry.

OUT on JACK and JENNIFER.

 

EPISODE 27

SCENE 1

INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - AFTERNOON (SAME DAY AS EPISODE 26)

JACK and JENNIFER have come home from the hospital, still in shock, but overjoyed, over the news that JACK'S leukemia has gone into remission. JACK in particular still finds everything hard to believe, as if he can't possibly be so lucky as to receive this miracle.

They collapse onto the couch. JACK puts his arm around JENNIFER and kisses the top of her head. They are both quiet for a while, just trying to let the last few hours sink in.

JACK: So you heard it too, right?

JENNIFER: (confused) Heard what?

JACK: Him. Dr. Patrick saying that I am in remission--you heard that too, right?

JENNIFER: Yes, Jack, I heard it. (raises her head and smiles at him) I heard it, and I have never been so happy to hear anything in my entire life.

JACK: There is no better sounding word in the English language than remission, is there?

JENNIFER: (giggling) No, there isn't.

JACK: (sighs, kisses the top of her head again) I just... wanted to make certain that I didn't just make this all up... I didn't just conjure this all up, did I? I mean I do have quite an elaborate imagination...

JENNIFER: That you do. But no, this is real. (emotional) This is all real. You're all better, and we're getting married, and we're here in Salem where we belong, and we're about to celebrate Christmas with the ones we love-

JACK: Quite a change of fortune, I'd say. I mean, whoever would have thought that all of this would be happening to us right now?

JENNIFER: (matter-of-factly) I did.

JACK: (arches his eyebrow) You did?

JENNIFER: Mmm hmm. (smiles) Don't look at me like that, I did! You always said I was a hopeless dreamer, didn't you?

JACK: I said a hopeless romantic. But yes, you do have quite a number of often amusing delusions of grandeur-

JENNIFER: Oh and I suppose I'm the only one in this family who has those?

JACK: Well, the child has the occasional one too.

JENNIFER: Uh huh... And her father?

JACK: (triumphant grin) Her father has his feet firmly planted on the ground at all times.

JENNIFER rolls her eyes and grins.

JACK: I saw that.

JENNIFER: (laughs, playfully grabs his chin so they are face to face) Well, I don't care if you don't believe me, Jack, but I did envision all of this. I really did. (beat) I just knew in my heart things would work out for us somehow.

JACK looks at her lovingly and brushes the hair away from her forehead.

JACK: (softly) Yeah, you always do, don't you?

JENNIFER: It comes with the territory of being stubborn.

JACK: And pig-headed.

JENNIFER: And persistent. (touches his face) I think you have to be when you love someone.

JACK: Quite right...

He caresses her cheek and they kiss tenderly. JACK suddenly comes up with an idea and when they pull apart, he gives her a mysterious grin.

JENNIFER: (wiping her lipstick away from his lips, notices his smile) Hmm, I know that look.

JACK: (playing innocent) Look? What look?

JENNIFER: That "I've got something up my sleeve" look. Care to share?

JACK: Well, now if I did, then my sleeves would be empty, wouldn't they? (kisses her nose, then gets up) You'll just have to wait to find out what this brilliant mind has come up with.

He gently pulls her off the couch.

JENNIFER: Wait a minute, that's not fair--you can't leave me hanging like that!

JACK: And we can't leave our daughter hanging, either. (taps his watch) It's time to pick her up from school.

JENNIFER: Oh my gosh, you're right! We better get going- (notices he's not following) Aren't you coming with me to pick her up?

JACK: (grinning) Uh... no. I've got something up my sleeve, remember?

JENNIFER: (amused) Oh right, I forgot.

JACK: So, you go and get the child, and come back here, and you both will have a surprise waiting for you.

JENNIFER: Jack, you just recovered from pneumonia--promise me you're not going to overdo it with this surprise?

JACK: (kisses her forehead) Not to worry. I've got Vern to do all the manual labor-

JENNIFER: Jack! What do you mean manual labor-

JACK: (opening the door for her and guiding her out) Say good-bye, Mrs. D.

JENNIFER: Good-bye, Mrs. D.

JACK: (smiling) Try not to miss me too much. (closes the door)

OUT on JENNIFER'S curious smile.

 

SCENE 2

EXT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S DRIVEWAY - LATER

JENNIFER has picked up ABBY, who has a million questions about what JACK'S surprise is.

ABBY: (as she and JENNIFER are walking up to the door) It's a puppy, isn't it?? I'm getting a puppy!

JENNIFER: (panicking) Uh... I-I don't think so, baby... (to herself) That better not be it, Jack.

ABBY: Are we going on a trip somewhere? (excitedly) To Disneyland?

JENNIFER: (laughs) Well, somehow I don't think it's that either. But with Daddy, one never knows.

ABBY thinks for a minute, then lights up, thinking she's guessed it.

ABBY: I know! Am I going to get a baby brother? Is that it, Mommy?

JENNIFER is caught off-guard by the comment, and bends down to ABBY'S eye level and gives her a smile.

JENNIFER: Sweetie, I know for sure that's not it.

ABBY is disappointed. JENNIFER tucks ABBY'S hair behind her ear, then tilts her chin up so she's looking at JENNIFER again.

JENNIFER: You know what, though? It may not be that this time around, but who knows in the future?

ABBY: Really, Mommy? You mean I could still get a baby brother?

JENNIFER: (smiles) Maybe. If you wish for it, it might come true.

ABBY: I wished that Daddy could get all better--I'd rather have that one come true first.

JENNIFER is touched by ABBY'S words and is tempted to give her the good news, but wants ABBY to find out from both her and JACK.

JENNIFER: (taking ABBY'S hand and opening the front door) Come on, let's go find out what Daddy's surprise is, huh?

ABBY: Yeah! (runs inside and throws her coat off) Daddy? Daddy?

JENNIFER: Jack, are you here? (to ABBY) I wonder where he is? He said to meet him here-

She looks around and sees a note on the coffee table.

INSERT - THE NOTE

BACK TO SCENE

JENNIFER: The lake?

ABBY: What's it say, Mommy?

JENNIFER: (turning to ABBY) Well, short stuff, let's go get your coat on because we're going outside again. (looks at the note again) Daddy's going to surprise us, all right.

She touches the note to her lips and smiles.

 

SCENE 3

EXT. THE LAKE - LATER

JENNIFER and ABBY have arrived at the lake, but do not see JACK anywhere. Now JENNIFER is more curious than ever to find out what he is up to.

JENNIFER: Hmm... No sign of Daddy anywhere, huh?

ABBY: Nope.

JENNIFER: (to herself) All right, Jack, what's our next clue?

ABBY: (tugs on JENNIFER'S hand) Look, Mommy! (points to the bench) Over there, there's something stuck to the bench!

JENNIFER: (walking over with ABBY) There sure is...

She sees another note taped to the bench. She takes it and opens it up.

JENNIFER: Let's see what we've got here...

INSERT - THE NOTE

 

BACK TO SCENE

JENNIFER: (smiles, then turns to her left and sees the bridge) Well, what do you know? That wasn't there seven years ago...

ABBY: What do we do now, Mommy?

JENNIFER: We do just what Daddy said, baby. We go meet him across the bridge...

OUT on JENNIFER and ABBY walking towards the bridge.

 

SCENE 4

JENNIFER and ABBY have followed JACK'S clues and crossed the bridge, and JENNIFER is surprised to see that the bridge leads them to the island where she and JACK have decided to have their wedding.

JENNIFER: (to herself) I can't believe it...

ABBY: Where are we, Mommy? This is really pretty.

JACK: (coming up behind them) You, my precious little miss, are in a very special place...

JENNIFER and ABBY turn around.

ABBY: Daddy!! (runs into his open arms) Is this our surprise?

JACK: It sure is. (looks up at JENNIFER and smiles, then looks back at ABBY) You're not disappointed, are you?

ABBY: (teasing) Well, I was hoping for a puppy...

JACK: (playing along) Ooh, my psychic powers must be on the fritz--I thought you wanted an island, not a puppy...

ABBY giggles.

JACK smiles at JENNIFER, who is watching him and ABBY. JACK takes ABBY'S hand and leads her and JENNIFER up a pathway.

JENNIFER smiles in delight when she sees what JACK has done: he has laid out boxes of Chinese food by three large rocks, and nearby are the two snow people, Herman and Hermione.

JENNIFER: Jack! You-

JACK: All right, before you give me full credit for all of this, I should fess up and say I did have a little help in putting this together. Vern helped me with bringing our old friends to life, and well, the food is courtesy of Grand Fortune Take-Out. (smiles) I did make sure to put in a double order of pot stickers, of course--one each for you and the child.

JENNIFER: (walks up to him) I... I can't believe you did all of this...

JACK: Well, I wanted the setting to be appropriate. (looks at ABBY) This is a day I always want you to remember.

ABBY: Why, Daddy?

JACK: (goes over to her, then crouches down to her level) This is my way of thanking you, sweetheart.

ABBY: For what?

JACK: For all those wishes that you made. (looks at JENNIFER, then back at ABBY) They came true, kiddo.

ABBY: (excited) You mean you're all better? You don't have leuk... leuk...

JACK: (smiles) I don't have leukemia anymore.

ABBY: Oh, Daddy, this is the best Christmas present ever!! (throws her arms around him)

JACK holds her tightly and closes his eyes for a second, savoring this moment.

OUT on the happy family.

 

SCENE 5

JACK, JENNIFER, and ABBY are just about done eating. ABBY is eating the last pot sticker, then licks her fingers. JACK and JENNIFER laugh as they watch her.

ABBY: I love eating outside. We should do this more often!

JENNIFER: You know what? That's not such a bad idea. We can make this a tradition, the three of us.

ABBY: Or the four of us?

JACK gives JENNIFER a look of bewilderment and mouths, the four of us?

JENNIFER: (whispering) I'll fill you in later...

ABBY: (looking around) It's going to be so pretty here when you get married. I don't even care if it's cold, it's still going to be the best wedding in the world!

JACK: Right you are, Abigail. (gently pulls her up) Come here, I want to show you something.

JENNIFER smiles, knowing what JACK is about to show ABBY, and follows them.

JACK: (pointing to the tree where he carved their initials a long time ago) See this?

ABBY: Uh huh...

JACK: This is a lover's tree. See, it's got names of all these couples that came over here and wanted the world to know just how much they loved each other. (pointing to the initials) There's your Uncle Steve and Aunt Kayla, and your Uncle Mike and his girlfriend, and Aunt Adrienne and Uncle Justin...

ABBY: (seeing their initials) And you and Mommy!!

JACK: (smiles) That's right, me and Mommy.

JENNIFER: And you know what, baby? Someday you're going to have your initials on that tree too. When you're old enough, and you find your prince, just like I found Daddy.

JACK: (looks at JENNIFER and grimaces) This of course won't be for another fifty or sixty years.

JENNIFER swats JACK on the arm.

JACK looks back at ABBY, who is fascinated and exploring all the other initials that have been carved. He reaches into his pocket and fishes out his Swiss Army Knife.

JACK: I tell you what--I'm going to make an amendment to our initials, what do you say?

ABBY: Sure!!

MUSICAL MONTAGE - BRYAN ADAMS' "I'LL ALWAYS BE RIGHT HERE" IS PLAYING IN THE BACKGROUND

JACK carves ABBY'S initials beside his and JENNIFER'S, then pulls ABBY towards him and gives her a kiss. JENNIFER joins them and they hold each other as the song plays.

I swear to you
I will always be there for you
There's nothin' I won't do
I promise you
All my life I will live for you
We will make it through

Forever we will be
Together
You and me
Ooh when I hold you
Nothing can compare
With all of my heart
You know I'll always be
Right there

I believe in us
Nothin' else could ever mean so much
You're the one I trust
Our time has come
We're not two people now
We are one
Yeah, you're second to none

Forever we will be
Together
A family
The more I get to know you
Nothin' can compare
With all of my heart
You know I'll always be
Right there

Forever we will be
Together
Just you and me
The more I get to know you
The more I really care
With all of my heart
You know I'll always be
You know I really love you
Nothin' can compare
With all of my heart
You know I'll always be
Right there

FADE TO BLACK.

 

EPISODE 28

SCENE 1

INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - DAY (A FEW DAYS AFTER EPISODE 27)

CALLIOPE has come over to the DEVERAUX house to give JENNIFER her final fitting for her wedding dress. The wedding is in just a little over a week, and JENNIFER is attempting to multi-task by taking care of last-minute details on the phone while CALLIOPE is fussing with her. ABBY is sitting patiently nearby in her flower girl dress, watching and trying not to get in the way.

JENNIFER: (stressed) The date on the order is when?! Oh no... Oh no, no, no... We need the flowers there on December 31, not January 1! The wedding is on New Year's Eve!

ABBY: (to CALLIOPE) I like your earrings. Are those real strawberries?

CALLIOPE: (laughing) No, sweetie, they're not real. But they're fun, don't you think so?

ABBY nods, as CALLIOPE tries to work while JENNIFER is on the phone, pacing.

CALLIOPE: Honey, could you... could you please stand still for just a second...

JENNIFER: What do you mean am I sure? Of course I'm sure, it's my wedding! I should know when my own wedding is going to be! I- (the phone beeps) Could you hold on for a second? (switches to the other line) Hello?

CALLIOPE: Raise your arms for me real quick, will you?

JENNIFER obliges, albeit with difficulty, since she is trying to balance the phone on her shoulder.

JENNIFER: (into the phone) You can't get there until 6:30? But the wedding starts at 3:30! No, please, you can't- (to CALLIOPE, with her jaw wide open in shock) The photographer just hung up on me, can you believe that? (sighs) I'm going to have to recruit an old friend from The Spectator at this short notice... (switches over to the other line) Hello? Hi, thanks for holding...

CALLIOPE: (looking over at ABBY) I am so glad I don't have to do this again.

ABBY giggles.

CALLIOPE: My advice to you, kid? Elope!

JACK, who has just come home, walks into the living room just in time to hear CALLIOPE'S comment.

JACK: I beg your pardon! I'll thank you not to fill my daughter's head with such foolish notions. When I find a suitable enough groom for her, she will be getting married in a real ceremony-

JENNIFER and CALLIOPE: (simultaneously, after seeing him) Jack!!

CALLIOPE attempts to cover JACK'S eyes.

JENNIFER: (hanging up the phone) What are you doing here, Jack?! You're supposed to be at Saxton's, getting fitted for your tux!

JACK: (ducks out of CALLIOPE'S way) My tailor is out for the day, so I told them I'd just come back tomorrow morning-

JENNIFER: But we're supposed to pick up Jo and Adrienne and her family from the airport tomorrow morning! We need two cars or we'll never fit!

CALLIOPE: (overlapping) You can't be here! (manages to get a hold of him and covers his eyes) She's in her wedding dress, for crying out loud! Don't you know that's bad luck?

JACK: Oh, come on now, Calliope! Don't tell me you still believe that old wives' tale?

CALLIOPE and JENNIFER: (simultaneously) It is not an old wives' tale!

JACK: (peeling CALLIOPE'S fingers off him) Look, the pendulum has swung completely to the other side as far as my luck goes. Not to worry-

JENNIFER: (covering his eyes with one hand, and covering his mouth with the other) Don't! Don't say things like that, Jack, it tempts fate...

JACK: (frees his mouth) Jennifer, please! Not in front of the child! You know, you're exposing her to all sorts of outdated, inaccurate-

JENNIFER: I am not taking any chances, do you hear me? (to CALLIOPE) Could you take over while I go change out of this? (takes ABBY'S hand) Come on, baby, Mommy needs help with her dress... Then we'll go over to Grandma's where we can finish our fitting without Daddy being in the way-

CALLIOPE: (suddenly panicking) No!!

JENNIFER: What do you mean? I thought we were still in the middle of the fitting-

CALLIOPE: No, Jennifer, uh... you can't. We can't go to Alice's right now...

OUT on JENNIFER'S curiosity.

 

SCENE 2

IN PROGRESS

JENNIFER has just suggested that she, ABBY, and CALLIOPE go to ALICE'S to finish their fitting so JACK will not be able to see her in her wedding dress. CALLIOPE protests, and JENNIFER wonders why.

JENNIFER: Why can't we go to Grandma's? Seeing as how Jack doesn't seem to be planning on leaving the house any time soon, and we can't have him peeking in on my dress...

JACK grins.

CALLIOPE: (still covering JACK'S eyes) Because... because... (trying to think of a good reason, laughing nervously all the while) I forgot to tell you, Alice called while you were changing earlier-

ABBY: No, she didn't...

CALLIOPE: (giving ABBY a "don't give me away" look) Oh yes she did, sweetie, you uh... just didn't hear the phone ring...

JENNIFER: Wait, why did Grandma call?

CALLIOPE: She called to uh... she called to say she'd be coming over here in a little bit, so it'd be silly to go over there now-

JENNIFER: Oh, well then I can call her right back and tell her to just stay put there-

CALLIOPE: No!! You can't do that either...

JENNIFER: (amused) What's wrong with you? You're acting a little strange...

JACK: You're just noticing this now?

CALLIOPE jabs him in the ribs.

CALLIOPE: You know what, I'm sure she's already on her way, so there's no use calling her.

JENNIFER: Well, how about we go to your place, then-

JACK: (sighs) All right, all right, if you're going to go to great lengths just to keep me from breaking an age-old tradition, why don't I just make it easier on everyone by making myself scarce? I'll just (pries CALLIOPE'S hand off his face) go elsewhere for a few hours and you ladies can continue your... well, whatever it is you're doing.

JENNIFER: (covers his eyes, gives him a kiss) Thank you, Jack.

JACK: (embarrassed) Yes, well...

CALLIOPE: Yes, Jack, that's so sweet of you to offer... Bye! (ushering JACK out the door)

JACK: (smirks) Don't mention it. (calling out to JENNIFER and ABBY) I'll see you two later-

CALLIOPE: (smiling at him as she practically pushes him out the door) Yes, later... Bye, Jack! (to herself, after he has left) Much, much later...

She turns back to JENNIFER and ABBY and claps her hands together.

CALLIOPE: Okay, girls, let's get back to work, times a-wastin'!

JENNIFER and ABBY do not notice her mysterious smile.

 

SCENE 3

INT. VERN'S OFFICE AT THE SPECTATOR - LATER

JACK has decided to visit VERN while JENNIFER and ABBY are with CALLIOPE. VERN is working when JACK knocks on his door.

VERN: (looking up from the computer) Jack!

JACK: Uh... hello, Vern. (beat) Surprise.

He feels awkward being here, and doesn't really want to give away the real reason why he's chosen to come here of all places.

JACK: (clears throat) Is the coast clear?

VERN: (knowing grin) You mean is Kate around?

JACK: Yes, that would be the direct translation, yes.

VERN: You're in luck. I heard she's started her Christmas vacation early so she's off this whole week.

JACK: Celebrating the yuletide with her beloved husband, no doubt.

VERN: So what brings you by to this neck of the woods?

JACK: Oh well, I've... I've been banished from my house for the next few hours.

VERN: (laughs) Jenny-girl finally came to her senses, huh?

JACK gives him a sarcastic smile.

VERN: I'm just teasing you, Jack. (goes back to working) So you missed this place, huh?

JACK: (dryly) What makes you think that?

VERN: Well, why else would you come here?

JACK: I told you, I've been expelled from my own home-

VERN: I know, but why here, instead of... Salem Place, or-

JACK: Well, if you must know... I did come here for a reason. I, uh... (tries to think of a good excuse) I came to hang around the news room.

VERN: (incredulous) The news room?

JACK: (happy with his excuse) Yes! Yes, you know, maybe pick up a few tips, maybe even scoop this rag on something-

VERN: Jack, Jack, who do you think you're fooling?

JACK: I beg your pardon?

VERN: Oh come on, you're not here to scoop us, you're here because you miss this place. (beat) Just admit it.

JACK: I-

VERN: Come on, Jack!

JACK: All right, all right! I guess I... (mumbling) miss it here...

VERN: What was that?

JACK: (giving VERN the evil eye for making him say it again) I said that...

VERN cups his ear, which only annoys JACK even more.

JACK: I said that in some small way... that... I might miss it here. Maybe. A little.

OUT on VERN'S smug smile.

 

SCENE 4

INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - LATER

It is now ABBY'S turn to be fitted. JENNIFER is back in her own clothes watching CALLIOPE and ABBY, wondering why ALICE has not arrived yet.

JENNIFER: I wonder where Grandma could be...

CALLIOPE: (having forgotten the lie she told earlier) Hmm?

JENNIFER: Well, you said she was coming right over, right?

CALLIOPE: (to ABBY) Turn around for me, sweetie... (to JENNIFER) I did? (realizing what JENNIFER is talking about) I did!!! Yes, I did... Well, um... I'm sure she'll be here any minute now...

JENNIFER: I think I'll go call her just to make sure. (gets the phone and dials)

CUT TO: ALICE ANSWERING THE PHONE

ALICE: Hello?

JENNIFER: Grandma, you are still there!

ALICE: Of course, I am, Jennifer Rose, where else would I be?

JENNIFER: (confused) What do you mean where else would you be, you're supposed to be here, remember?

ALICE: I am?

JENNIFER: (looking over to CALLIOPE, who's got a guilty look on her face) Yes, Calliope said you called earlier and said you were coming over. We were going to go over there to do the fitting, but she said since you were coming over here-

ALICE: (putting two and two together and realizing CALLIOPE made up the excuse so JENNIFER would not find out about her surprise) Oh yes!! Yes, that's right, how silly of me, I guess I just forgot...

JENNIFER: (starting to get suspicious now) You forgot?

ALICE: Yes, yes, well I was working on the rice packets for Hope's wedding, and I completely lost track of time.

JENNIFER: All right Grandma, what's going on? What are you and Calliope up to?

CALLIOPE gives JENNIFER a guilty smile.

 

SCENE 5

CUT TO: JACK AND VERN

JACK is looking over VERN'S shoulder as VERN is working.

JACK: So... what are we working on?

VERN gives JACK a look for invading his space like this. JACK gets the hint and pulls away.

VERN: I'm working on a series that Kate wanted us to do on that princess.

JACK: (fiddling with VERN'S stapler, not really listening) Princess?

VERN: Yeah, you know, Greta von Amburg? The princess who's living here in Salem and is supposed to be crowned in Paris in six weeks? Kate wanted us to do a profile on her. A series of articles chronicling the events leading up to the coronation.

JACK: (droll) How newsworthy. (puts down the stapler) Boy, Kate really has a nose for news, doesn't she?

VERN: No, no, Jack, it's been a really hot sell. People are loving it--we're getting the same response we got with your von Leuschner articles.

JACK: (shuddering) Oh yes, there's a real highlight in my career-

His cell phone rings.

JACK: Jack Deveraux here. Yes, yes, I was in there earlier, and they told me he was out for the day... Oh he's back in? Excellent! Yes, I can be there in half an hour-

VERN panics when he hears JACK making plans for this afternoon.

VERN: Wait, Jack, no!!

JACK: I'm sorry, could you hold on one moment? (to VERN) What the hell are you talking about, no? I happen to be on the phone with Saxton's, and Jennifer's going to kill me if I don't get my tux by today-

VERN: You can't meet him in half an hour!

JACK: What do you mean I can't meet him in half an hour? Look, I can't do it tomorrow morning because Jennifer and I have to pick up my mother and sister and her family, so I'm going to have to do it this afternoon-

VERN: No, Jack, you can't. Tell him you can't do it!

JACK: I most certainly will not-

VERN grabs the phone and hangs up on the tailor.

OUT on JACK looking at him in shock.

 

SCENE 6

CUT TO: JENNIFER, ABBY, CALLIOPE, AND ALICE

JENNIFER: Well, Grandma?

ALICE: Well what, Jennifer Rose?

JENNIFER: Nice try, answering my question with a question. What's going on here, why are you and Calliope acting so funny? Why couldn't I come over there earlier?

ALICE: I never said you couldn't come here earlier.

JENNIFER: Well Calliope said-

ALICE: Oh, you know Calliope, she probably misunderstood... No, I was just... working on the favors for Hope's reception-

JENNIFER: I thought you said you were working on the rice packets?

ALICE: (realizing her slip) Yes, yes, of course, that's what I meant... (laughs to cover up her mistake, hoping she isn't ruining JENNIFER'S surprise)

JENNIFER: I never thought I'd see the day when you would be acting as weird as Calliope.

CALLIOPE: (offended) Hey!

JENNIFER: (smiles) You know what I mean.

ALICE: Well, I'm sorry for this mix-up, dear, but I tell you what, why don't you and Abby come over here right now with Calliope? I could use some help with Hope's favors.

JENNIFER: You mean the rice packets?

ALICE: Yes, those too. (beat) Will you come over?

JENNIFER: (exasperated laugh) Okay, we'll be there in a bit. Bye... (shrugs, looks at ABBY) I guess we are headed to Grandma's after all. I'll go get your coat...

CUT TO: ALICE

ALICE: (to herself, with a grin) I hope you and Hope enjoy your surprise, Jennifer Rose...

OUT on ALICE'S mysterious smile.

 

EPISODE 29

SCENE 1

INT. VERN'S OFFICE AT THE SPECTATOR - AFTERNOON (SAME DAY AS EPISODE 28)

VERN has just grabbed JACK'S cell phone and hung up on his tailor, much to JACK'S surprise and confusion.

JACK: I hope you have a damn good explanation for what you just did.

VERN just smiles. He is racking his brain, trying to think of the right thing to say so JACK does not get suspicious about why he just did what he did.

JACK: I'm waiting.

VERN: (nervous laugh) Waiting for what, Jack?

JACK: For the aforementioned damn good explanation. Do you know how hard it is to get an appointment with this particular tailor?

VERN: Oh come on, Jack, I'm sure you can just meet with anyone they have on staff there-

JACK: (not letting him off the hook) I am a very busy man, Vern. In case it has slipped your mind, let me remind you that I am getting married in nine days--nine days--and if I don't get this tuxedo soon, I am going to have to face the wrath of a certain Mrs. Deveraux, and I do not particularly want to start my marriage off in the doghouse-

VERN: Aww, Jenny-girl's a very forgiving gal-

JACK: You'd better talk fast, before I give in to the urge to put my hands around your neck and squeeze--very tightly.

VERN: (swallows hard) Uh...

JACK: (imitating VERN) Uh... (losing patience) You're going to have to do a helluva better than that, Vern.

VERN: I can explain... Really, I can explain!

JACK: By all means go ahead.

VERN tries to think of a good thing to tell JACK, hoping he won't blow JACK'S surprise.

JACK: You don't seem to be talking. (beat) Fine, if you're not going to give me a reasonable explanation, I'm calling Saxton's back-

VERN: (grabbing JACK'S arm) Wait, wait, wait! Don't, Jack...

JACK: Look, I don't have time to play twenty questions with you, Vern, so either you tell me what this is all about, or-

VERN: All right, all right! (saying the first thing that pops in his mind) I need your help.

JACK: Come again?

VERN: (through gritted teeth, wondering why he said this of all the things he could have said) I... need your help, Jack.

OUT on JACK'S look of amusement and curiosity.

 

SCENE 2

EXT. HORTON HOUSE - SAME

JENNIFER, ABBY, and CALLIOPE have arrived at ALICE'S and are about to ring the doorbell, when HOPE walks up the pathway and sees them.

HOPE: Jen! What are you guys doing here?

JENNIFER: Hope, hi! (hugs her) Grandma asked us to come over to help with the rice packets for your wedding. What are you doing here?

HOPE: (surprised) You're helping Gran with the rice packets? That's funny, she asked me to come over to help her with your reception favors...

JENNIFER: She did? She didn't say anything to me about that to me...

HOPE and JENNIFER look at each other in curiosity, then suddenly figure out what this is all about and slowly turn to look at CALLIOPE who is avoiding their eyes.

JENNIFER: Calliope?

CALLIOPE: (feigning innocence) Yes?

HOPE: Do you happen to know what's going on?

CALLIOPE: I don't know what you mean...

JENNIFER: Oh really?

CALLIOPE: Really! I don't know anything. (to ABBY) Right, sweetie?

JENNIFER: Oh no, no, no, don't you hide behind my daughter! (laughs) I knew you and Grandma were up to something, now just admit it!

CALLIOPE sees ALICE through the window, giving the go-ahead signal.

CALLIOPE: You know, I think this is just a matter of poor Alice getting mixed up, what with two weddings about to take place within a week of each other. We should really get inside and help her...

JENNIFER: But-

CALLIOPE: Come on, let's go!

HOPE and JENNIFER exchange curious grins as CALLIOPE links arms with them and the door swings open, to reveal a house-full of women.

ALL: Surprise!!!

OUT on HOPE and JENNIFER.

 

SCENE 3

CUT TO: JACK AND VERN

VERN has just told JACK he needs his help on something to explain why he does not want JACK to go to SAXTON'S right now. JACK is intrigued--and amused--to hear that VERN needs his help.

JACK: (enjoying this) I'm sorry, I think I must be hearing things...

VERN rolls his eyes.

JACK: Yes, yes, I thought I just heard you say that you needed my help. Did you by any chance hear yourself say that too?

VERN: (muttering) I knew he'd act this way...

JACK: What was that?

VERN: Oh nothing. (clears throat) So, um... Will you?

JACK: Will I what?

VERN: (sighs, can not muster the enthusiasm to say it) Will you help me?

JACK: (grinning) Well, I don't know, that depends. What could I possibly do to help the normally unflappable Vernon Scofield?

VERN: You really make it easy for someone to ask for a favor, you know that?

JACK: It's a gift.

VERN: (sighs) All right, the reason I didn't want you to go to Saxton's right now is...

JACK: You need my help, yes, I know, you already said so. But you haven't told me what this favor entails yet.

VERN: (hoping this does not sound too suspicious) Okay, here it is... I'm working on a story about the revitalization of the Riverfront, and since the Brady Pub is kind of the centerpiece of the business area there, I thought I'd interview the Shawn and Caroline Brady.

JACK: (confused) And you need me because...

VERN: You're friends with the Bradys, aren't you?

JACK: Yes, I suppose I am. But-

VERN: Well, you're my in!

JACK: Your in?

VERN: Yeah, I mean if you come with me, you can introduce me to them, and they can feel comfortable enough to be interviewed.

They stare at each other in silence for a few moments.

JACK: (finally) Do you actually expect me to believe that?

VERN is nervous, knowing time is running out and he needs to get JACK to the BRADY PUB soon.

VERN: Come on, Jack, be a pal, huh?

JACK: That is the most ridiculous story I have ever heard from you--and I have heard plenty of ridiculous things from you. This is why you had me cancel my appointment at Saxton's?

VERN: (exasperated) Look, would you just go with me? Come on, you owe me.

JACK: (arching an eyebrow) I owe you?

VERN: Don't even play innocent, Jack, you know you do. (pushes JACK out of the door) Come on, let's go.

JACK: (as they're leaving) Fine, but just for this, you are going to go with Jennifer tomorrow to pick up my mother and the rest of my family from the airport...

OUT on the two as they leave for the BRADY PUB.

 

SCENE 4

CUT TO: JENNIFER AND HOPE'S SURPRISE WEDDING SHOWER

JENNIFER and HOPE have just arrived at ALICE'S and were surprised by their friends and family with a wedding shower.

HOPE: (to JENNIFER) I can't believe this--you swear you didn't know anything?

JENNIFER: No, not a thing! (to ALICE and CALLIOPE) But I should have known by how strange you two were acting these last few hours!

ALICE: Well, it's not every day that my granddaughters get married. I wanted to do something special for both of you.

HOPE: (teasing) Oh, I see, she plans a wedding on short notice, so she has to cut into my wedding shower, right?

JENNIFER: I don't see what you're complaining about, Hope--we still get our own presents, don't we Grandma?

ALICE: (laughing) Oh, you two...

HOPE and JENNIFER join everyone in the living room, which has been decorated with balloons and streamers.

There is a table set up in the middle of the room with a large cake that says, "Bon voyage to your single days."

ABBY: (seeing the cake) Mommy, look!

JENNIFER: Ooh, that's pretty, isn't it baby? (sees ABBY trying to sneak a taste of the frosting, gets a hold of her hand before she does) I don't think so, young lady.

ALICE: (joining HOPE and JENNIFER by the cake) I hope you liked your surprise.

HOPE: Oh, Gran, how could we not?

JENNIFER: (smiles at HOPE, then at ALICE) It's perfect, Grandma. Everything's just perfect...

 

SCENE 5

A very wary JACK accompanies VERN to the BRADY PUB, where he has a bad feeling about the real reason he had to come.

JACK: I can't believe I let you talk me into this... Well, maybe if you hurry it up on the interview I can still make it to Saxton's before they close-

VERN: Yeah, yeah, whatever you say, Jack.

They walk into the pub, which is filled with familiar faces, and JACK immediately figures out he was set up.

ALL: Surprise, Jack!

JACK tries to leave, but VERN gets in his way and turns him around, then pushes him inside.

JACK: (to VERN, muttering) Remind me to kill you before this night is over...

SHAWN: Vern, I thought we told you to get Jack here at 5:30, sharp?

VERN: Well, you know Jack...

Everyone laughs while JACK wishes the ground would open up and swallow him.

BO: (walking over to hand JACK a beer) If it's any consolation, they got me pretty good too. So at least you're not alone.

JACK: Oh, well that just makes me feel infinitely better.

BO: (grinning) I thought it would.

JACK reluctantly follows BO into the center of the group. Everyone starts to mingle and come up to JACK and BO to congratulate them on their upcoming weddings. JACK does not notice VICTOR, who has also attended the bachelor party.

VICTOR: Well, I suppose congratulations are in order, Jack.

JACK: (shocked to come face to face with him) Victor.

VICTOR: No warm greetings for me?

JACK: (smirks) Perhaps you were expecting a hug and a kiss? Well, I'm sorry to disappoint you.

VICTOR: I'm not here to ruin your evening, Jack-

JACK: Oh, what a comforting thought. Now I can rest easy. (turning to leave) If you'll excuse me, I think I'll go survey the hor d'oerves-

VICTOR: So soon? Does my presence bother you that much?

JACK: Is that a rhetorical question, Victor?

VICTOR gives him a cool smile.

VICTOR: As I said, I'm not here to put a damper on things tonight. In fact, I have something to discuss with you that you might find rather interesting.

JACK: (starts to leave) Sorry, not really in the mood for tips on the horse races-

VICTOR: Then you wouldn't be interested in the fact that The Spectator is up for sale?

JACK stops dead in his tracks, then slowly turns around to face VICTOR.

VICTOR: (triumphant smile) I thought that might get your attention.

 

SCENE 6

IN PROGRESS

VICTOR has just stunned JACK with his news that he will be selling THE SPECTATOR.

VICTOR: Cat got your tongue, Jack?

JACK: I'm not in the mood for one of your games, Victor.

VICTOR: This is no game, I assure you.

JACK: Oh really? So I'm supposed to bite when you throw some bait at me like this, is that it? Forget it. (turns around)

VICTOR: If you're trying to convince me you no longer want that newspaper, you're doing a terrible job of it. I know what it meant to you.

JACK tries not to show any sort of reaction to encourage VICTOR.

VICTOR: I know how badly you've wanted to reacquire it over the years.

JACK: (faces him) I've made no secret of wanting it back, yes. But if you expect me to salivate like Pavlov's dog by waving this at me, you're sadly mistaken.

VICTOR: So you're turning me down on this offer, is that it? Without even hearing the details?

JACK: I did not hear you make an offer, Victor, and even if you did, what the hell makes you think I would ever trust you to follow through on your word? (beat) I've already been burned by you, and I'll be damned if I am going to set myself up for that again.

VICTOR: (smiles) Have it your way, Jack. But the offer stands if you change your mind.

JACK: Go to-

BO: Hey, Jack... (grabs hold of JACK'S shoulder) We're needed in there. They're wheeling out a huge cake, and I think it's got a big surprise in it...

JACK leaves with BO and gives VICTOR one last parting look.

OUT on VICTOR'S self-satisfied grin.

 

SCENE 7

INT. HORTON LIVING ROOM - LATER

JENNIFER and HOPE are opening up the last of their gifts. They are both wearing bonnets made out of the ribbons from their presents, and everyone is laughing and enjoying themselves as the party begins to wind down.

JENNIFER: (pulling out a racy negligee out of a box, amid hooting from the guests) Oh my...

JULIE: I think that's going to be the same reaction you'll get out of Jack, darling.

ABBY: What's she mean, Mommy?

JENNIFER: Um... I'll explain it to you later, baby...

MAGGIE: (gathering up the discarded gift wrap and empty boxes) Well, I think that's the last of it, girls.

HOPE: I'd say we did pretty well for ourselves, didn't we, Jen? Look at all this loot!

JENNIFER: (laughing) I guess so!

The guests begin to straighten up and clean the mess when the doorbell rings.

CALLIOPE: I'll get it...

A short time later, CALLIOPE comes back into the living room after having answered the door.

CALLIOPE: Look who's here!

It is the men from the bachelor party, who file into the living room, laughing.

SHAWN-D: We heard there was a party in here, so we thought we'd crash it.

BO: Actually, we've come to reclaim our women!

Everyone laughs. JACK makes his way to JENNIFER, who is still wearing her bonnet full of ribbons.

JACK: (sliding his arms around her waist) This is quite a fashion statement.

JENNIFER: (giggling) You like it?

JACK: (touches her bonnet) I think it's more Calliope's style, but I suppose it works...

JENNIFER: So I gather you got your own surprise tonight?

JACK: Yes, yes... Vern was quite sneaky.

JENNIFER: (laughs) So were Calliope and Grandma. But this was all so wonderful. We have the best friends and family, don't we?

JACK: (embraces her) We do, indeed.

He thinks about VICTOR'S offer as he holds JENNIFER, and wonders if VICTOR was serious and what his true motives could possibly be.

JENNIFER: (noting his silence) Pretty wiped out, aren't you?

JACK: (sighs) A little, yes.

JENNIFER: Ready to go home?

JACK kisses her forehead, and tells himself to just forget everything VICTOR said to him tonight.

JACK: Let's go.

 

EPISODE 30

SCENE 1

INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S BEDROOM - DAY (TWO DAYS AFTER EPISODE 29)

It is the morning before Christmas, the day of BO and HOPE'S wedding. JACK is the first one to wake up, and he watches JENNIFER as she sleeps. He gently brushes a lock of hair from her eyes, hoping not to wake her, but she begins to stir and instinctively reaches up to touch his hand.

JENNIFER: (opens her eyes and smiles at him) Hi...

JACK: (takes her hand and kisses it) Well, good morning.

JENNIFER: What were you doing just now?

JACK: You mean just now, just now?

JENNIFER: (giggles) Mmm hmm...

JACK: I was just... I was watching this beautiful woman who happened sleeping in my bed.

JENNIFER: I see. Should I be jealous?

JACK: (pretends to think about it) Nah, you have nothing to worry about.

JENNIFER: Oh good, because I don't plan on sharing you with anyone else...

She slides her hand behind his neck and pulls him towards her for a kiss.

JENNIFER: What are you thinking right now?

JACK: You really want to know?

JENNIFER nods.

JACK: All right... I was thinking about how relieved I was that Adrienne suggested that she and the brood stay at the Salem Inn. That way we have some peace and quiet around here-

JENNIFER: (laughs, playfully hits him on the arm) You are so awful! Come on, now just admit it--you love your nephews.

JACK: (rolling his eyes) Please, Jennifer-

JENNIFER: You can't fool me, Jack Deveraux. Do you think I've forgotten about you telling me that you've always loved children?

JACK smiles at the memory of them dancing in ALAMANIA and him confiding in her that he loves children.

JENNIFER: I know you love having them around as much as I do.

JACK: Well, you were always the softie.

JENNIFER: (exasperated laugh) Jack!

JACK: All right, I admit it! I... suppose I am somewhat fond of the little rugrats-

JENNIFER: You love them.

JACK: I... (can't say it, so he mouths it) love them. (beat) Happy?

JENNIFER: (giggles) Yes, I'm happy. I (imitating him, mouths the words too) love you too, Jack.

JACK gives her a somewhat embarrassed smile, and JENNIFER pulls him towards her for another kiss. When they finally part, he looks at her lovingly and kisses her forehead.

JENNIFER: (softly) I've missed this.

JACK: (knowing what she means) Me too. (looks down at her and gently strokes her face) It's been too long...

JENNIFER: Jack...

JACK kisses her.

JENNIFER: (as they're kissing) I don't want to push you before you're ready...

JACK: Shh... It's all right...

They kiss tenderly. They are both lost in their own world, in the kiss, in being in each other's arms again, and are about to make love again for the first time in months.

ABBY: Mommy? Daddy?

JACK and JENNIFER pull apart in surprise when they hear ABBY knocking on their door and calling them.

OUT on JACK and JENNIFER exchanging smiles.

 

 

SCENE 2

IN PROGRESS

ABBY has just interrupted an intimate moment between JACK and JENNIFER.

JENNIFER: (whispering) Think we can just pretend to be asleep?

JACK: (laughing) Well-

ABBY: (knocking on the door again) Mommy? Daddy? Wake up!

JACK: I believe there's the answer to your question.

JENNIFER: (smiles, then gives him a kiss) Uh... just a second, baby!

They both slip into their robes, then JENNIFER opens the door.

JENNIFER: What is it, sweetie?

ABBY: Someone's at the door! They've been ringing the doorbell for a while now...

JENNIFER looks at JACK in curiosity and wonders who it could be.

JACK: I'll go get it.

He affectionately tousles ABBY'S hair as he walks by her and makes his way downstairs to get the door. The doorbell is still ringing, and he can hear someone yelling outside.

CALLIOPE: Hello!! Hello, hello, up there! Wake up, Deveraux!

JACK: (to himself, with a grimace) Calliope...

CALLIOPE: Hello! Come on, I don't have all day-

JACK swings the door open, and CALLIOPE gives him a smile.

JACK: Mrs. Bradford.

CALLIOPE: (giving JACK a once-over glance as she comes in) Nice look, Jack.

JACK: (closing up his robe even more) Might I inquire what you're doing here at this hour?

CALLIOPE: (not listening to him) Where's that beautiful wife of yours, huh? Jennifer? Jennifer??

JENNIFER comes down the stairs with ABBY.

JENNIFER: Calliope? What... What are you doing here?

JACK: Exactly what I wanted to know.

CALLIOPE: (panicking when she sees JENNIFER still in her robe) What's going on?? Why aren't you ready yet? We're supposed to be at Hope's-

JENNIFER: What are you talking about? Calliope, it is 9:00--the wedding is this afternoon, and there's plenty of time to go to Hope's and get ready...

CALLIOPE: (gives JENNIFER a look) Honey, you may find this hard to believe, but there are some weddings in which not all things get done at the last minute, so come on, chop, chop! (grabs hold of JENNIFER'S hand and starts to pull her away)

JENNIFER: (laughing) Now, wait a minute, we're going right now? With me like this?

CALLIOPE: I've got all your stuff in my car, let's go... (to ABBY) You too, sweetie, come on...

JENNIFER: Well, I- (looks to JACK and shrugs) I guess I'm being whisked away now...

JACK: I guess so. I'll, uh... I'll go and get some things taken care of as well, and I'll see you both at the church later.

He leans in to kiss her, but CALLIOPE gets in the way.

CALLIOPE: I'm sorry, but we're really in a hurry here... Bye, Jack!

JACK glares at the door after she pulls JENNIFER and ABBY away with her, then he looks at the phone, and reluctantly picks it up and dials.

JACK: Hello, Jo? Hi, it's... it's me... Uh, do you mind if I come over right now?

 

SCENE 3

INT. SALEM INN - LATER

JACK has come to see JO, ADRIENNE, JUSTIN, and the kids. He is standing in front of the door to JO'S room, and does knock right away, but finally does.

JO: (opens the door, immediately pulls him into a hug) Jack! Get in here...

JACK is practically choking in her embrace, but it is clear he does not mind too much. ADRIENNE joins in on the hug and proceeds to put her own choke hold on her big brother.

ADRIENNE: Hey, you!

JACK: (can barely talk) Good... morning...

JO: (realizing she's hugging him too tightly) Oh, I'm sorry, Jack... (laughs) I was just so happy that you're here.

ADRIENNE: Yes, it was very sweet of you to want to take us out to breakfast.

JACK: (embarrassed) Well, um... I would have asked you over to the house, but seeing as I haven't really inherited Jo's culinary skills, I thought it best if we just went out to eat. (beat) So... where is the rest of your clan, Adrienne?

ADRIENNE: Oh, Justin took the boys over to see Victor.

JACK grimaces upon hearing VICTOR'S name, which ADRIENNE notices.

ADRIENNE: (giving JACK a knowing smile) I know. But he does want them to get to know their cousin Phillip, and... well, I am not about to make them turn their back on family, so...

JACK: So you've just decided to just hold your tongue.

ADRIENNE: As hard as that may be to believe. (laughs)

JACK sees JO from the corner of his eye, smiling at him and ADRIENNE.

JACK: What?

JO: Oh, nothing... I'm just so happy to see my kids like this--together, and smiling, and healthy! (gives JACK another hug) I'm so glad you're going to be fine, son!

JACK: Yes, you uh... you mentioned that yesterday. Several hundred times...

JO: (laughs) Well, it's just because I am so happy about it. I'm happy that I won't... lose you too...

JACK and ADRIENNE look at each other, knowing JO is thinking of STEVE and the fact that it's been 10 years since his death. JACK gently lays a hand on JO'S shoulder, and JO touches his hand and squeezes it in gratitude.

ADRIENNE: (linking arms with JACK) All right, big brother... So where are we going for breakfast?

OUT on the three as they exit the hotel room.

 

SCENE 4

INT. BO AND HOPE'S HOUSE - SAME

JENNIFER, ABBY, and CALLIOPE have arrived at HOPE'S house. HOPE'S family and friends are already there.

CALLIOPE: Hey, look who I brought...

JENNIFER: Good morning!

MELISSA: (seeing that JENNIFER and ABBY are still in their robes and pajamas) She got you too, huh?

SARAH: If it makes you feel better, Calliope made us get over here pretty early too.

HOPE: (overhearing) Hey, wait a minute! I would have thought that my bridesmaids would be eager to get up out of bed at the crack of dawn just to help me get ready!

KIMBERLY: Hope, sweetie, don't take this the wrong way, but we would have rather gotten the extra hour or so of sleep...

HOPE pretends to be offended, while everyone laughs. JENNIFER hugs and gets reacquainted with MELISSA and SARAH, whom she has not seen in a long time. KAYLA goes over to JENNIFER, who had not seen her yet.

KAYLA: Jennifer...

JENNIFER: Kayla, hi! (hugs her) How are you? It's so good to see you!

KAYLA: It's been a long time, hasn't it?

JENNIFER: (softly) Too long.

KAYLA: I'm so happy to hear about Jack. Jo gave me the great news. How's he doing?

JENNIFER: (excitedly) He's doing great, Kayla. He's getting stronger and stronger every day and I'm just so thrilled that he's going to be all right.

KAYLA: And I see you're not wasting any time getting things back on track, huh? (smiles) Next week is the big day?

JENNIFER: Sure is. And you're absolutely right, we're determined to make each moment count so we were not going to wait anymore.

KAYLA: Good... (squeezes JENNIFER'S hand) You make sure to cherish every moment with him, Jennifer.

JENNIFER (smiles back, knowing she is remembering STEVE) I will.

KAYLA: (sees ABBY standing next to JENNIFER) Well, hello there! I haven't seen you in a long time. I hope you still remember me...

ABBY: (shyly) You're my Aunt Kayla, right?

KAYLA: (smiling) That's right. (gets STEPHANIE to come over) And this is your cousin, Stephanie. I don't think you've seen each other since you were very little girls...

ABBY: Hi, I'm Abby.

STEPHANIE: Hi!

ABBY: Do you like Pokemon?

STEPHANIE: Yeah!

JENNIFER and KAYLA watch with amusement as ABBY and STEPHANIE go off by themselves to play.

KAYLA: They grow up so fast...

JENNIFER: Yeah, they do. Sometimes I can't believe Abby's eight. I mean it just seems like yesterday when I was carrying her around in her little baby carrier...

KAYLA: (laughing) And I can remember when Jack was carrying Stephanie around in the baby carrier you gave him.

JENNIFER: Before we know it, we'll be getting together like this for one of their weddings...

JENNIFER and KAYLA: (simultaneously) I am not ready for that to happen!

OUT on JENNIFER and KAYLA laughing.

 

SCENE 5

INT. SANDOLLAR RESTAURANT - LATER

JACK, JO, and ADRIENNE have arrived for a late breakfast.

JO: Oh, I have been dreaming about the sweet rolls here...

JACK: Yes, I seem to remember those were their specialty...

JO: (looking at JACK) All right, out with it.

JACK: Out with what?

JO: You've been looking at me funny ever since we left the hotel. Is there something you want to tell me?

JACK has been wanting to ask her about VERN but can not work up the nerve.

JO: Well?

JACK: Well what?

JO: Is there something you want to tell me?

JACK: You're imagining things...

JO: Oh no, I don't think so.

ADRIENNE: I know what it is, Mama.

JACK and JO both look at her. JACK arches an eyebrow.

ADRIENNE: (smiling because she thinks she's guessed it) You're nervous about the wedding next week.

JACK: Oh, now don't be ridiculous-

ADRIENNE: So you're telling me you're perfectly cool about the fact that one week from today you will be getting married again? That you're not the least bit anxious?

JACK: What, just because this will be the fifth time I will be heading down the aisle? Although I suppose I should stop counting the ill-fated wedding to Melissa Anderson since that did not actually make it to the vows-

ADRIENNE: I knew it!! I knew it, you are nervous!!!

JACK: I am not nervous-

ADRIENNE: Look, Jack, there is nothing to be scared about, I promise. When you look down that aisle and you see Jennifer looking absolutely breathtaking in that wedding dress, you're going to know that you're doing the right thing.

JACK: (grins) And I suppose you're going to tell me you felt the same way on your second wedding?

ADRIENNE: (beaming) Absolutely.

JACK: (feels awkward discussing this, clears his throat nervously) Well, what do you say we order... (gestures for the waiter to come over)

JO: (eying him) No, there's still something going on with you. And it's not just pre-wedding jitters. What is it, son? Talk to me.

JACK looks at her above the menu, then finally decides to go for it and puts the menu down.

JACK: All right, you want to know what's on my mind? (beat) Is there something going on with you and Vern?

OUT on JO'S smile.

 

SCENE 6

IN PROGRESS

JACK has just asked JO whether there is something between her and VERN.

JACK: You don't seem to anxious to answer my question.

JO: (unable to hide her smile) Well, I'm sorry Jack, it's just that you caught me a little off guard with your question, that's all.

JACK: (tentatively) So... what is your relationship with Vern, exactly?

JO: We're friends.

JACK: Friends?

JO: Yes, Jack, friends. (sees the waiter) Oh good, we can finally order-

JACK: I see, so you've been friends for a while now, it seems.

JO: (to the waiter) Hi, I'd like the sweet rolls please...

JACK: Because I have to say I'm a bit surprised-

WAITER: And what will you be having, sir?

JACK: Uh, could you give us a minute here, please?

WAITER: Certainly. (leaves)

ADRIENNE: Jack, come on, what's the big deal? So he and Mama are friends! (mumbles) I think it's cute.

JACK: (overhearing) Cute?

ADRIENNE: Well, sure...

JO is enjoying seeing JACK'S reaction.

ADRIENNE: I mean you should see them together, they're just adorable-

JACK: Wait a minute, wait a minute--how do you know what they look like together? (beat) Has he visited you in Texas?

JO: Well...

JACK: I don't believe this...

JO: (laughing) Oh Jack, I think it's sweet that you're being protective, but really, there's nothing for you to worry about.

JACK: (muttering to himself) So she says now...

JO and ADRIENNE exchange amused looks and try to hold in their laughter.

OUT on JACK'S embarrassment.

 

SCENE 7

INT. ST. AUGUSTINE CHURCH - LATER

The wedding is about to start. JACK, JO, and ADRIENNE arrive at the church, where JUSTIN is already waiting with ALEXANDER, JOEY, VICTOR, JACKSON, ABBY, and STEPHANIE. ABBY runs over to JACK and they sit and wait for the wedding to begin. The wedding march begins to play.

ABBY: (whispering) Mommy looks really pretty in her dress!

JACK: You got a sneak peek, huh?

ABBY: Uh huh! You're going to think she's a hottie...

JACK: (laughs) A hottie? And just where did you learn that word, young lady?

JENNIFER begins to walk down the aisle, and JACK sees her. They exchange smiles, which ABBY sees.

ABBY: Are you excited about next week, Daddy?

JACK: (softly) More than I've ever been in my life, Abigail. (smiles at her and gives her a kiss)

OUT on father and daughter.

 

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

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