In This Life
by Jennifer
Episodes 36 - 40
EPISODE 36
SCENE 1
INT. SALEM UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL - DAY (TWO DAYS AFTER EPISODE 35)
JENNIFER is standing near the nurse's station when her cell phone rings.
JENNIFER: Jennifer Deveraux... Helen, hi... Yes, I'm still here at the hospital...
MIKE comes out of a patient's room and sees JENNIFER. He sneaks up behind her to surprise her.
JENNIFER: (unaware MIKE is there) 1:30? Yes, that sounds perfect... All right, I should be in soon. I've got my notes at the office, so I can get them before I head over to City Hall... Okay, thanks!
MIKE waits until she has hung up the phone and suddenly grabs her waist. JENNIFER gasps in surprise.
MIKE: Squirt...
JENNIFER: (overlapping) Mike! (hits him on the arm)
MIKE: (laughing) Hey!
JENNIFER: I can't believe you just did that! What's the idea of scaring me half to death like that?
MIKE: Oh come on, you act like that's the first time I've ever done that. If you remember, I did this pretty regularly when you were a kid.
JENNIFER: (smirks) And in case you've noticed, I'm not eight years old anymore.
MIKE: No, you're sure not. (touches her hair) You don't have pigtails anymore, either. I used to love tugging on those-
JENNIFER: (laughs) Pigtails don't really go with this pantsuit I'm wearing.
MIKE: (smiles) You here to see Vern?
JENNIFER: No, they let him go home yesterday, thank goodness.
MIKE: That's great news!
JENNIFER: Yeah, it is... I'm so happy he's doing better now. It'll be a while yet before he comes back to the office, but that might not be such a bad idea, considering who is boss is. (laughs)
MIKE: So what are you doing here? Came to see your big brother, who you just worship?
JENNIFER: Actually, I came here with Jack-
MIKE puts his hands over his heart and pretends to be hurt.
JENNIFER: (grins) -and to see my wonderful beyond words big brother too, of course.
MIKE: That's better. (turns serious) So, how's he doing?
JENNIFER: Good. He's doing good. He's here for his check-up with Dr. Patrick. He should be out any minute now, and then we're going to the office together. Which reminds me, you haven't been to my office yet, have you? I haven't quite moved in yet, but we should schedule lunch or something so you can get the grand tour-
MIKE: Whoa, whoa, whoa...
JENNIFER: What?
MIKE: Take a breath, will you?
JENNIFER: What? What do you mean-
MIKE: (giving her a look) You're talking a mile a minute. What's going on?
JENNIFER does not answer.
MIKE: Come on, Squirt, out with it. What's bothering you?
OUT on JENNIFER taking her eyes away from him.
SCENE 2
IN PROGRESS
MIKE has noticed that JENNIFER seems upset about something, but she won't tell him.
MIKE: I don't mind waiting here all day for you to answer, you know.
JENNIFER: Oh, we're going with that strategy, are we? Let's stare at Jennifer until she breaks...
MIKE: So you do have something on your mind.
JENNIFER: Am I really that transparent?
MIKE: Well... yeah. Just a little. But that's what we love about you.
JENNIFER smiles a little and begins to absent-mindedly play with his tie, which has baseballs and baseball bats on it.
JENNIFER: Hey, this is the tie that Abby picked out that we sent you on your birthday... She'd get a kick out seeing you wear it. I should bring her by later so she can see it-
MIKE: (lifts her chin up) Nice try, Squirt.
JENNIFER: (feigning innocence) Nice try?
MIKE: You want to tell me what's really going on in that mind of yours?
JENNIFER: It's nothing worth talking about, really.
MIKE: Really.
JENNIFER: Really.
MIKE: It's about Jack, isn't it?
SCENE 3
IN PROGRESS
MIKE has guessed what's on JENNIFER'S mind.
MIKE: Well? Do I win the million dollar prize?
JENNIFER smiles.
MIKE: I'll take that as a yes.
JENNIFER: How do you do that? How do you know exactly what I'm thinking all the time?
MIKE: I'm your brother. It comes with the territory.
JENNIFER: Well, you're right. It's about Jack.
MIKE: You're worried about him.
JENNIFER: It's silly, I know. I mean, he's in remission, he's getting stronger by the day--there's nothing to worry about, right? (beat) So why is it still always in the back of my mind?
MIKE: (puts his arm around her shoulders) Because... You're scared that if you let yourself relax, that you let your guard down and think that it's all over and done with... that it might come back and blindside you.
JENNIFER: Score again.
MIKE: Jen, it's only natural that you feel that way. You came so close to losing him--that's not something you can easily get over just because he's got a clean bill of health now.
JENNIFER: I just keep wondering, Mike... Am I always going to be nervous every time he's got a check-up? Am I always going to be scared that the doctor will say they've found something again? I mean, there are no guarantees... right?
MIKE: No, there aren't. I wish I could tell you that there's no risk of it ever coming back again, but... I can't. You know that.
JENNIFER: (softly) I know.
MIKE: But I can tell you that each day he's cancer-free is going to be a blessing, and you need to treasure that.
JENNIFER: (smiles) Thank you.
She hugs him, then pulls away and feels guilty for bringing all of this up.
JENNIFER: I'm sorry...
MIKE: What for?
JENNIFER: I know how hard it must be for you to talk about this, and here I always do. The last thing I want to do is bring up sad memories for you.
MIKE: It doesn't hurt me to think about Margo, Jen. She's always going to be a piece of me no matter what, just like Jack is always going to be a piece of you. And maybe... maybe all the heartache I went through with her was so that I could help you through this.
JENNIFER: You're the best, you know that?
MIKE: Yeah, I do-
JENNIFER jabs him in the ribs.
MIKE: (doubling over) -but it's nice to hear it anyway.
JENNIFER: (laughing) I love you, Mike.
MIKE: I love you too, Squirt. (sees JACK coming) And there's the other man in your life.
JENNIFER turns around and she and JACK slide their arms around each other's waist when he comes up to her.
JENNIFER: (giving him a kiss) Were your ears burning?
JACK: My ears are always burning. There is always someone talking about me somewhere.
JENNIFER exchanges amused grins with MIKE.
MIKE: Of course.
JENNIFER: Everything okay?
JACK: Everything is okay. Dr. Patrick sends his best.
JENNIFER: (smiling) Good. (to MIKE) And you--I'll see you later. (gives him a kiss) Thanks for everything.
MIKE: You bet. (to JACK) Jack, you take care of yourself, you hear me? Otherwise I'm the one who has to hear about it from this one (indicating JENNIFER).
JACK: She does worry about me a bit too much, doesn't she?
MIKE: We all do, buddy.
JACK gives him an embarrassed smile.
JACK: Ready?
JENNIFER: Absolutely.
OUT on JACK and JENNIFER as they head to work.
SCENE 4
EXT. SALEM PUBLIC PARK - LATER
JACK and JENNIFER are walking to THE SPECTATOR.
JENNIFER: I'm glad we decided to take the long way to work.
JACK: It is rather scenic, isn't it? Of course the fact that coffee stand on the corner has surprisingly good coffee doesn't hurt either. (takes a sip from his cup) You set to meet with the mayor later today?
JENNIFER: Mm hmm. At 1:30. I should be able to make it back for the editorial meeting at 4:00.
JACK: Good, good. I've got some college students coming in to interview for internships for spring semester, by the way. I'd like them to meet with you too.
JENNIFER: (smiles) Oh really? Any good candidates?
JACK: (pulling a face) Depends on your definition of good.
JENNIFER: Come on, Jack, I'm sure you're being too hard on them. I mean, they're students, not professionals.
JACK: Jennifer, I had you covering major stories as an intern. You had almost as many by-lines as my most established reporters. These so-called candidates can't even tell me what comes after, "Who, what, when, and where."
JENNIFER: Well, I had someone pretty good take me under his wing. That makes a big difference, you know.
JACK: (on a roll) I swear, I don't know what they teach in Journalism 101 these days. It's positively disgraceful. They churn out these kids calling themselves journalists, who haven't the foggiest idea how to put together a simple story- (sees that JENNIFER is looking at him and smiling) What?
JENNIFER: Nothing.
JACK: That is not a look of nothing.
JENNIFER: It's you.
JACK: (confused) Me?
JENNIFER: (smiles) Yeah. I haven't seen this side of you in years, Jack.
JACK: (arches an eyebrow) Is that a good thing or a bad thing?
JENNIFER: It's a good thing. A very good thing. Look at you, back in power at the newspaper you love. Where you belong. I haven't seen you this excited and rejuvenated in a really long time.
JACK: (half-smiles) Well, I suppose freelancing can bring one only so much satisfaction.
JENNIFER: It's not the same as being in charge, is it?
JACK: No, it's not. It's not the same as being "home." That's where we are, Jennifer--home.
JENNIFER: We certainly are.
She slips her arm through his as they continue to walk.
JENNIFER: Mike reminded me of something today, you know. I mean, it's something I've always known, but I guess I just needed to hear it from someone else.
JACK: What's that?
JENNIFER: That every day is a blessing. And every day I have here with you and Abby, and every day that we get to do what we love for a living and be back in the place we love--it's a gift.
JACK: I had no idea your brother was so sentimental. Your grandmother better watch out or she may be out of a job soon.
JENNIFER: Jack! (hits him on the arm)
JACK: (laughs) All right! I admit, it is good advice...
JENNIFER: It is.
JACK: So, my fellow media mogul, ready to spend another day trying to take over the publishing world?
JENNIFER: (smiles) Let's do it.
OUT on the two.
EPISODE 37
SCENE 1
INT. JACK'S OFFICE AT THE SPECTATOR - DAY (SAME DAY AS EPISODE 36)
JACK is interviewing a prospective intern from SALEM UNIVERSITY. So far he has not been impressed with the candidate, which has made the STUDENT even more nervous.
As the STUDENT sits and waits, JACK leans back in his chair and continues to scrutinize his resume.
JACK: (without looking up from the resume) So, Mr. Larson, you're the Sports Editor for the Salem University school newspaper.
STUDENT: Y-Yes, that's right... Since the fall semester.
JACK looks up. He is clearly enjoying the fact that the STUDENT is intimidated by him.
JACK: And you were on the sports writing staff until then?
STUDENT: Uh... yes, I started out as a reporter for our sports section and moved up to columnist last year, and now editor.
JACK: (nodding) I see. Do you have any experience covering hard news?
STUDENT: (caught off guard) Hard news, Mr. Deveraux?
JACK: Yes. Something other than sports.
STUDENT: Well, uh... t-there was the time I... I uncovered a cheating scandal on the football team.
JACK: (narrows his eyes) A cheating scandal?
STUDENT: The coaching staff had hired a bunch of students to take exams for the team. It was a big deal on campus for a while--lots of people were in hot water over it.
JACK: (not really impressed) Hmm... (looks at the resume again) Well, Mr. Larson, I suppose I should turn the HR manager loose on you now.
He gets up, as does the STUDENT.
STUDENT: Oh, of course...
JACK: After you meet with her, you'll meet with my co-publisher, Jennifer Deveraux.
STUDENT: (sticking out his hand) Uh... thanks for meeting with me, Mr. Deveraux-
JACK sees VERN standing by the door and is surprised to see him.
JACK: Vern!
STUDENT: (confused) Vern?
JACK: (to the STUDENT) Uh... yes, nice to meet you, Mr. Larson. (shakes his hand) And good luck to you.
The STUDENT leaves. VERN smiles at him as he walks out the door.
VERN: Internship time again, huh? Looked like a nice kid.
JACK: (rolling his eyes) In a frat boy sort of way, yes.
VERN laughs, as JACK stares at him.
VERN: What?
JACK: Well...
VERN: What?
JACK: Forgive me if this sounds terribly rude, but... What the hell are you doing here, Vern?
OUT on VERN'S smile.
SCENE 2
IN PROGRESS
VERN has come to see JACK, and JACK is surprised to see him.
VERN: I can't believe I'm saying this, but I've actually missed you talking that way to me.
JACK is embarrassed and clears his throat.
JACK: I, um... I just meant... I didn't expect to see you here today.
VERN: (looking around at all the boxes scattered around the office that JACK still hasn't unpacked) Jenny-girl around?
JACK: She's at City Hall, but she should be back any minute... You still haven't told me what you're doing here.
VERN: Well, today is the editorial meeting, right?
JACK: Yes, in about 20 minutes-
VERN: Oh good, I'm right on time.
JACK: Wait a minute, Vern... You can't be here!
VERN: Why not?
JACK: Well, you... shouldn't you... be resting? Or something?
VERN: Resting? (laughs) Come on, Jack, who can rest when there's a newspaper to put out?
He walks over to JACK'S desk to look at his computer monitor, but JACK blocks his view.
JACK: Rest assured, Vern, I've got it covered. I know I rely on you a great deal, but I am capable of running this place in your absence, you know.
VERN: (smiles) I know that, Jack. But you can't keep a newspaper man away for too long. He gets homesick...
He tries to get past JACK, who once again blocks his way.
VERN: What is going on with you?
JACK: Do I have to spell it out for you?
VERN: Yeah, that might be nice for starters.
JACK: All right, here it is: you just got out of the hospital not more than 24 hours ago! How could Brian and Tanner let you out of their sight so soon? Not to mention my mother, the woman who gives new meaning to the word 'overprotective'-
VERN: (amused) Why, Jack...
JACK: What? What 'why, Jack'?
VERN: Are you worried about me?
OUT on JACK'S look of denial.
SCENE 3
IN PROGRESS
VERN wonders if JACK is worried about him.
VERN: You are, aren't you? You're worried about me.
JACK: (laughs nervously) Worried?
VERN: Yeah, you know--concerned, troubled, vexed-
JACK: Yes, yes, I do know what the word means, Mr. Webster.
VERN: You can admit it, you know.
JACK: (glaring at him) I'm not-
VERN: Fine, fine, whatever you say. (looks around the office) Looks like you've got a lot of moving in to do still, huh?
JACK: (sighs) All right, fine, have it your way.
VERN: Excuse me?
JACK: I admit it, okay?
VERN: (enjoying this) Admitting... what?
JACK: (gritting his teeth) That I'm worried about you. (beat) Happy now?
VERN: (grinning) Why, that's-
JACK dreads what he's about to say, which VERN notes.
VERN: -very kind of you, Jack.
JACK: (sarcastic laugh) Yes, that's me, benevolent to a fault.
VERN: I think it's perfectly all right for me to be here, though. I mean, it's only an editorial meeting. It's not going to kill me.
JACK: Damn it, Vern! (immediately gets scared) I-I'm sorry--I didn't mean that, I'm sorry...
VERN: Are you apologizing to me, Jack? (laughs) I could learn to like this...
JACK: (sighs) Look... It's not that I don't want you here, all right? But... I will not be the cause of you going into the hospital again, do you understand me?
VERN: Jack... Are you... Are you blaming myself for my heart attack?
JACK looks away and does not say anything.
SCENE 4
IN PROGRESS
VERN realizes JACK may be feeling guilty about possibly causing VERN'S heart attack.
VERN: Are you blaming yourself, Jack?
JACK: (very serious) Obviously... Obviously, if I hadn't been giving you such a hard time over my damn cufflinks or whatever the hell it was that I was barking at you about on my wedding day, you wouldn't have... I mean, you wouldn't have...
VERN: (smiles) Hey, look--it's not your fault, what happened. My arteries were clogged solid, Jack. Too much bacon and chicken fried steak and-
JACK: Green noodle tuna casserole?
VERN laughs.
VERN: You had nothing to do with it. In fact, the doctor was surprised I didn't have one sooner. (beat) But here I am, good as new, ready to take another beating from you-
JACK gives him a look.
VERN: (holding up his hands) Kidding, kidding!
JACK: (moving behind his desk, waves a finger at VERN) Do not kid about things like this, Vern... It's... It's tempting fate.
VERN: (rolling his eyes) Aye, aye, whatever you say, boss. (laughs) It is great to have you as my boss again.
JACK: (touched) Really? (quickly covers up his emotions) I-I mean, uh... really?
VERN: So, wha'cha been working on?
JACK: Trying to find someone to assign this princess series to, as a matter of fact.
VERN: The princess story? (disappointed) You mean... you're giving it to someone else?
JACK: Vern, you are on medical leave! Don't fight me on this one--I am not going to budge.
VERN: All right, okay! I was just... you know, I was looking forward to going to the coronation, that's all.
JACK: (looking at his computer monitor) Yes, well, those are the breaks. (looks up at VERN) I'm sorry.
VERN: No, I understand. Really. If you need my notes, they're on the shared server there. Everything should be backed up.
JACK: Good, good... (mutters) I just hope I can find someone at this short notice. I suppose the next step is to actually do an interview with the princess herself. (sarcastic laugh) That should be really deep. What are your goals in life? End world hunger? Promote world peace? Find Prince Charming?
VERN: Oh, come on, Jack, give her a break. I'm sure she's a nice young girl who's just like the rest of us.
JACK: Except she's about to come onto millions and gets to wear a tiara everyday. Yes. Just like the rest of us.
JENNIFER has come back from CITY HALL and knocks on JACK'S door.
JENNIFER: Hey, the meeting hasn't started yet, has it- (notices VERN) Vern!
VERN: Jenny-girl... (goes over to hug her)
JENNIFER: What are you doing here?
JACK: Good question. I was trying to extract a good enough answer from him earlier.
JENNIFER: My gosh, you just got out of the hospital, you shouldn't be here! (gives JACK a teasing grin) Five minutes with him could put you back in there in a hurry.
JACK: Thank you ever so much for your faith in me.
JENNIFER: Oh, it's only because I know you so well, darling.
JACK: And I'm so glad, dear.
VERN laughs.
JACK and JENNIFER: (simultaneously) What?
VERN: Nothing, nothing, just... It's good to be home again.
OUT on JACK and JENNIFER smiling at each other.
SCENE 5
INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S BEDROOM - LATER
JACK and JENNIFER are getting ready for bed.
JENNIFER: (turning down the quilt) I really liked that Larson kid, Jack...
JACK is brushing his teeth, and grimaces when he hears her.
JENNIFER: (poking her head in the bathroom) Did you hear me?
JACK: (toothbrush in mouth) Yes, I heard you.
JENNIFER takes his toothbrush out.
JENNIFER: What did you say?
JACK: I said yes, I heard you. And I can't believe you just said what you said.
JENNIFER: What do you mean?
JACK: (takes the toothbrush out again) I mean, he's a complete neophyte, Jennifer. How can you even think of hiring him?
JENNIFER: Jack, he's going to be an intern. They're supposed to be neophytes, not seasoned reporters!
JACK: (spits into the sink and rinses) Well, I didn't say I was looking for someone who was ready to win a Pulitzer. Just someone who can write a decent story. (gets into bed with her) I guess I've just been spoiled.
JENNIFER: (smiles) What did you just say?
JACK: I said I wanted someone who can write a decent story.
JENNIFER: No, after that.
JACK tries to remember what he just said.
JENNIFER: (exasperated) About you being spoiled.
JACK: (half-smiles) Oh, yes, that.
JENNIFER: Yes, that. (beat) What did you say about that?
JACK: I said I've been spoiled.
JENNIFER: (trying to draw it out of him) By... whom?
JACK: (teasing her) By that last intern I had. DeeDee, was it? DeeDee Yates-
JENNIFER: (hitting him on the arm) Jack!
JACK: (laughs) No, wait, wait--Horton! Yes... I do believe her name was Miss Horton. (beat) Yes, she was something pretty special.
JENNIFER: (smiles) She had a pretty amazing boss herself.
JACK: Well, I don't want to be immodest-
JENNIFER: Yeah, Diana was the best boss an intern could ask for...
JACK glares at her.
JENNIFER: (laughs) Of course, she wasn't nearly as kissable as another boss I had.
JACK: I would hope not.
JENNIFER: Jack, come on... You know I loved working with you.
JACK: For me.
JENNIFER: With you.
JACK: All right, have it your way... (sarcastically) With me.
JENNIFER laughs.
JACK: Yeah, sure, laugh now. It isn't wise to antagonize your partner, you know. It makes for lots of tension at the office.
JENNIFER: Oh, really?
JACK: Yes, really.
JENNIFER: What kind of tension?
JACK: Well... Nothing that can't be... relieved, I suppose...
JENNIFER: Oh... Care to, um... elaborate?
JACK: (grins) I do think a little demonstration is in order...
OUT on their kissing.
EPISODE 38
SCENE 1
INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S BEDROOM - NIGHT (THE DAY AFTER EPISODE 37)
JACK and JENNIFER are going to have VERN, BRIAN, TANNER, and JO over for dinner. JACK is standing in front of the full-length mirror adjusting his tie, and JENNIFER comes up behind him and wraps her arms around him to help him fix his tie.
JENNIFER: (smiling at him in the mirror) A little nervous, are we?
JACK: (gives her a look) Hardly.
JENNIFER doesn't say anything and just grins.
JACK: I can't believe I let you talk me into this.
JENNIFER: Me, Jack? You are the one who said to Vern in the hospital that we should have him and Brian and Tanner over, so don't you dare rewrite history.
JACK: (knowing he can't argue his way out of this one) Sure... Take his side.
JENNIFER laughs. She turns JACK around to face her so she can fix his tie. The door is wide open and they see ABBY come out of her room. She is dressed in a blue dress with a flowered pattern, and her hair is in a French braid.
JACK: (whistles) Well... Could this radiant vision of loveliness possibly be our daughter?
ABBY giggles and comes inside their room.
JENNIFER: Daddy's right, baby. (imitating a snooty accent) You look smashing, dah-ling, simply smashing.
ABBY: I wanted to look extra special tonight.
JENNIFER: (exchanges amused grins with JACK) Oh, really? And why is that?
ABBY: 'Cause it's a special occasion.
JACK: It is? (narrowing his eyes) Why?
ABBY: You'll see!
She smiles, then immediately leaves the room without saying another word. JACK looks at JENNIFER questioningly.
JENNIFER: (laughs) Don't look at me, I don't know any more than you do.
They follow ABBY down the stairs and into the living room.
JACK: Abigail...
ABBY: Uh huh?
JACK: What did you mean by, 'You'll see'?
ABBY: (giggling) Just what I said, Daddy. You'll see!
JACK: (after a pause) Do you know something we don't?
OUT on ABBY'S mysterious grin.
SCENE 2
IN PROGRESS
JACK and JENNIFER are trying to learn ABBY'S secret, but ABBY does not say anything. It is obvious she is hiding something.
JENNIFER: Baby... what's going on?
ABBY: What good's a surprise if you're not surprised?
JACK: Oh, I see. A surprise. (to JENNIFER) Why did I suddenly feel my stomach plummet to the ground just now?
ABBY: (laughs) It's nothing bad, Daddy.
JACK: Nothing bad, huh. If this involves your grandmother--and I have the sneaking suspicion it does--I wouldn't be so sure of that.
ABBY: Well, I guess that's just for me to know and you to find out...
JACK opens his mouth to say something, but the doorbell rings before he can.
ABBY: That's them!
JACK: (to JENNIFER) What have we created?
JENNIFER: (smiles) What we probably deserve, Jack.
ABBY: I'll get it!
She runs off to open the door. JO, VERN, BRIAN, and TANNER are standing outside.
ABBY: Hi, Grandma!
JO: Well, hello to you too, sweetheart...
She walks in and gives ABBY a hug, while the men remain at the door.
JENNIFER: (waving them in) Come on it, you guys!
VERN, BRIAN, and TANNER: (simultaneously) Thanks, Jennifer.
BRIAN: Jack, hi!
JACK: Brian. Tanner. Good to see you two again.
TANNER: Yeah, I just wish it had been under better circumstances.
VERN: (to JACK) See the great lengths I had to go to, to get these guys to come home and visit once in a while?
BRIAN and TANNER groan.
JO: Now don't you joke about that, Vern.
VERN gives her a smile, which makes JACK very uncomfortable.
VERN: Oh, Jo... I'm fine now, aren't I? All's well that ends well.
JACK: (clears his throat) Yes, well... shall we?
Everyone files into the living room while JACK closes the door. JENNIFER waits for him.
JENNIFER: Promise me you'll behave.
JACK: Now, come on, Jennifer... when have I not?
He walks off, leaving JENNIFER to let out a sigh.
OUT on JENNIFER shaking her head as she follows JACK into the living room.
SCENE 3
INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - LATER
JACK, JENNIFER, ABBY, JO, VERN, BRIAN, and TANNER are sitting at the dining room table. They are in the middle of dinner.
JENNIFER: So how are you guys enjoying Las Vegas?
BRIAN: Well, it took a little getting used to, but now it's home, I guess.
VERN: Which is probably why I can't get either of them to visit from time to time, am I right?
TANNER: Subtle, Dad.
VERN: Well, we reporters aren't known for being subtle, right Jack? Jennifer?
JENNIFER: (laughing) It's too bad Ginger and Molly couldn't come. How are they?
BRIAN: Oh, they're doing great, thanks for asking. They really wanted to come with us, but Ginger had to stay behind because she couldn't find anyone to run the restaurant for her on such short notice, and Molly...
He looks at TANNER, who smiles and holds out his arms to indicate a big stomach.
JENNIFER: (excited) She's having a baby?
TANNER: (proudly) Due in 8 weeks.
JENNIFER: Oh my gosh, congratulations! That's great! Isn't that great, Jack?
JACK has been observing JO and VERN all night, and has no idea what JENNIFER just asked him.
JENNIFER: (nudging him) Jack?
JACK: Hmm? What?
JENNIFER: I said, isn't that great?
JACK: (watching JENNIFER nod to encourage him) Y...es, yes, it's great! (forces a laugh) It's great, Brian-
JENNIFER: Tanner-
JACK: Tanner. (clears his throat) Speaking of great... Jo...
JO: Yes, son?
JACK: Abigail tells us you have a surprise for us tonight.
ABBY: I didn't tell, Grandma, I promise!
JO: (laughing) Well, thank you sweetheart.
JACK: So it's true? You do have a surprise?
JO: Why, yes... Yes, I do, as a matter of fact. (smiles) I have some good news for you. (beat) Some very good news.
JACK: Oh God, I knew it...
JO: (confused) W-What? What do you mean?
JACK: He's asked you to marry him, hasn't he? (looks at VERN, then at JO). You two are getting married!
OUT on JO'S shocked, but amused face.
SCENE 4
IN PROGRESS
JACK thinks he has just guessed JO'S big surprise.
JACK: (seeing that JO is trying to hold her laughter in) May I inquire what's so amusing?
JO: You.
JACK: Me. (beat) You're trying to deflect the subject.
JO: What subject? Jack, I-
JACK: The subject of you and Vern getting married!
Everyone else can barely keep their laughter in check. JENNIFER is mortified.
VERN: Uh... I think I should clear this up-
JACK: Yes, please Vern, that would be very helpful. Why don't you clarify things just a little.
VERN: We're not getting married, Jack.
JACK: You're not?
JO: We're not. (laughs) Now, what gave you that idea, son?
JACK: Well, I... I mean, Abigail said you had a surprise, and... I just assumed that...
VERN: (rolling his eyes) Must I remind you of that old saying about assuming?
JACK: (giving him a smirk) Not in front of the child, thank you.
ABBY: What's that mean, Daddy?
JACK: I'll explain it when you're older, Abigail. (to JO) So, what is your news?
JO: This is probably going to be really unexpected-
JACK: Surprises usually are.
JENNIFER jabs him in the side.
JACK: (reacting) Sorry. Please, continue.
JO: (smiling) Thank you. Well, I've been thinking about this a lot in the last few months. Ever since you two moved back to Salem, as a matter of fact. Justin and Adrienne's boys are a lot older now, and they've been settled in Dallas for years now. They don't really need me that much anymore, and I... really miss it here... So I decided that I'm moving back here. To Salem. I've been thinking for years of opening up a day care center, and I figure, now's the perfect time and this is the perfect place to do it...
JACK is in shock. He is happy, but he is surprised and does not know what to say.
JO: Jack? W-What do you think?
JACK: You're... moving back to Salem?
JO: Yes. Yes, I am... (beat) That would be all right with you, wouldn't it?
JACK: (flustered) Well, uh... I mean, of course. Of course, if... that's what you want.
JO smiles, knowing this is his way of saying he is glad she is coming home.
JACK: This is what you want, isn't it? I mean, you're not doing this because you... think you need to take care of me or anything-
JO: Oh, of course not, don't be silly.
JACK: (laughs nervously) Yes, a silly thought.
JO: (laughing too) Very silly. (beat) The fact is, Jack, this is my home. My family's here now. I've got a granddaughter I've missed terribly, and... my friends are here.
She and VERN smile at each other. JACK becomes tense again.
JACK: Wait a minute, you're not...
JO: Not what, Jack?
JACK: You're not planning on... living together, are you?
VERN: (choking on his drink, starts to cough) Living tog... What?
JACK: Uh... never mind. (to JENNIFER, so nobody hears) Can't be planting seeds in the man's head. (JENNIFER laughs)
JO: No, Jack, I'll be living in my own place, of course.
ABBY: You can come live here, Grandma!
JACK: No!! (beat) I-I mean... certainly you want your privacy, don't you, Jo?
JO: (smiles) Actually, yes, I do. Abby, sweetheart, it's very nice of you to offer, but your daddy's right. I'd like to have my privacy. My independence.
ABBY: Oh. But you'll come over all the time, right?
JO: You bet I will.
JACK: That she will. (smiles at JO) That she will.
OUT on JO'S smile.
SCENE 5
INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - LATER
Dinner is over and the guests are getting ready to leave. JACK and VERN are discussing JACK and JENNIFER'S book while the others are putting on their coats.
VERN: So it's finally done, huh?
JACK: Indeed. The galleys are coming in three weeks.
VERN: That's great. It must be a relief to get that finished.
JACK: Major relief. Not that we didn't enjoy working on this project, mind you, but with us being back at the paper, it was good to get it done before things really got hectic.
VERN: Don't remind me, Jack. Don't you know it's torture knowing I'm at home 'recuperating' while you two get to enjoy all the fun?
JACK: Oh yes, deadlines, advertisers, subscribers--fun, fun, fun!
VERN: Nice try, but you're not fooling me. I know you and Jenny-girl love it as much as I do.
JACK: (half-smiles) Yeah, I... I guess we do. (pats him on the shoulder) But you'll be back before you know it. And I'm sure once I'm in one of my moods again, you'll be wishing you were back home recuperating again.
VERN: Oh good, something to look forward to. (beat) So, you found someone yet to take over the princess story?
JACK: Well, as a matter of fact... yes, I did.
VERN: You did? Well, that's fantastic! So, who's the lucky reporter who gets to go to Paris in a few weeks?
OUT on JACK'S smile.
EPISODE 39
SCENE 1
INT. JENNIFER'S OFFICE AT THE SPECTATOR - DAY (A FEW DAYS AFTER EPISODE 38)
JENNIFER is busy working on a story. Her door is open, and JACK knocks. Unbeknownst to JACK, his new intern, RICK LARSON, has followed him to JENNIFER'S office and is waiting for further instructions.
JACK: Jennifer...
JENNIFER: (looks up) Hi! What's going on?
JACK: I wanted to talk to you-
He notices she is giving him a funny look.
JACK: What?
JENNIFER indicates that someone is behind him. JACK turns around, a bit startled to see RICK there.
JACK: Mr. Larson... Can I help you?
RICK: I was just waiting for my next assignment, sir.
JACK looks at JENNIFER and rolls his eyes. She tries not to laugh.
JACK: Well, your current assignment is to stop playing 'me and my shadow' with me-
JENNIFER: Jack!
JACK: (sighs) Your next assignment, yes... All right, how about this--Mary Reynolds in the features department is working on a story about community activism. I'm sure she's going to need some assistance in doing research, so why don't you tell her I sent you?
RICK: Right away, Mr. Deveraux! (to JENNIFER) Nice seeing you again, Mrs. Deveraux. (gives her a flirtatious smile, which JACK sees right away)
JENNIFER: Bye, Rick!
JACK: (imitating JENNIFER) Bye, Rick! (slams the door in disgust) Interns...
He notices that JENNIFER has gone back to working on her story.
JACK: Hmm, perhaps I should take a peek at what has my lovely fiancée so engrossed-
JENNIFER blocks his way before he can look at her computer monitor.
JENNIFER: Oh no, you don't! Not until I've finished the final edit. (comes around the front of the desk and pulls him towards her for a kiss) And besides, you haven't told me what you're doing here.
JACK: Oh, I wasn't aware I needed a reason...
JENNIFER: Well, I guess not... (kissing him again) Not when you're this good of a kisser...
JACK pulls away and grins at her.
JENNIFER: What? What's that for?
JACK: What's what for?
JENNIFER: That cat-ate-the-canary grin, Jack. What's going on?
JACK: I don't know what you're talking about-
JENNIFER: (pulls on his tie to bring him closer to her) Must I remind you that you are talking to your partner? Now spill, Jack.
JACK: (gives her a devious smile) All right, I must confess, I did have a special reason for coming here...
He starts to pull out something from the inside pocket of his jacket.
JACK: I have a surprise for you...
OUT on JENNIFER'S curiosity.
SCENE 2
IN PROGRESS
JACK has a surprise for JENNIFER.
JENNIFER: A surprise? (tries to grab whatever JACK is holding but he teases her by keeping it out of her reach) Jack!! Come on, what is it?
JACK laughs and finally hands her an unmarked envelope.
JACK: Well, go ahead. Open it...
JENNIFER: (opens it) Jack!! Two first class tickets to Paris? How... what... you... I can't believe-
JACK: (grins) I take it this meets with your approval?
JENNIFER excitedly throws her arms around him and jumps on him.
JACK: (with difficulty) I'd say that's a definite yes-
JENNIFER: Yes! Yes, it's a definite yes!! We may not have gotten to go to Venice, but I think this can serve as a honeymoon preview of sorts...
JACK: (smiles) That's the idea.
He sets Jennifer down, but keeps his hands at her waist.
JACK: There is... one tiny thing I neglected to mention, though.
JENNIFER: (trying not to sound disappointed) Oh?
JACK: (sensing her disappointment) We'll still be taking full advantage of the magic and romance of the City of Lights, of course.
JENNIFER: Oh... (perks up) Well, good-
JACK: But...
JENNIFER: But?
JACK: But... we'll also be there on business.
JENNIFER: On business?
JACK: Yes.
JENNIFER: What do you mean? What kind of business?
JACK: I've volunteered us to cover Miss von Amburg's coronation. With Vern still out, I had to find someone to cover the rest of this series... (beat) I hope you're not disappointed.
JENNIFER: (smiles) Jack, I'm not disappointed.
JACK: You're not?
She shakes her head.
JENNIFER: Nope. Know why?
JACK: (half-smiles) Why?
JENNIFER: Because I'm going to be in the most romantic city in the world with the most wonderful man in the world-
JACK: (rolling his eyes, tries to be modest) Well... I don't know about the most wonderful-
JENNIFER: Don't correct me, Jack... Like I was saying-
JACK: As I was saying-
JENNIFER: As I was saying... We'll only have to work for one night... (leans in close, and JACK smiles in response) So there's no reason we can't enjoy ourselves the rest of the time, is there?
JACK: (pretending to think) No, no... I can't think of a single reason...
JENNIFER: (smiles) Good. Me neither. So it's all set, it'll just be a working vacation...
JACK sits down on her desk and pulls her onto his lap.
JACK: (whispering in her ear) Perhaps we could supplement our work with... another kind of work...
JENNIFER: (playing along) Could you elaborate on what you had in mind, exactly?
JACK: You're a reporter, Mrs. D--I shouldn't have to elaborate.
JENNIFER: Humor me.
JACK: All right. We could... get started on that project we've been talking about. You know, regarding a certain request that the child has been dropping hints about?
JENNIFER: Oh you mean... something about a baby brother? That?
JACK: (smiling) Yes, that.
JENNIFER: That.
JACK: That does sound vaguely familiar...
JENNIFER: Why, Jack, I'm shocked! And we're not even married yet! Think of the scandal...
JACK: Oh, of course, I lost my head there for a second. I was too distracted by a certain temptress sitting on my lap... Well, then... we'll just have to remember to pack the miracle diaphragm-
JENNIFER: (laughs and swats him on the arm) Behave yourself, Mr. D.
JACK: Yes, Mrs. D. (begins to nibble her ear)
JENNIFER: Jack...
JACK: Hmm...
JENNIFER: Jack...
JACK: Yes...?
JENNIFER: (swooning) Jack, we... really should... get back to work...
JACK: We are working...
JENNIFER: (giggling) What if they can see us outside?
JACK pulls her along with him to the door, where he closes the blinds. He goes back to kissing her.
JENNIFER: Jack...
JACK: You can't possibly have any more objections?
JENNIFER: (as they're kissing) Not that I'm not enjoying this--very much, I might add--but...
JACK: But what?
Suddenly, a voice interrupts them.
JO: Jennifer?
Startled, JACK immediately pulls away and straightens.
JENNIFER: (whispers) But... that.
OUT on JACK looking at JENNIFER.
SCENE 3
IN PROGRESS
JO has come to JENNIFER'S office, interrupting JACK and JENNIFER.
JO: (knocking on the closed door) Jennifer?
JACK: (whispering) Is that Jo?
JENNIFER nods.
JO: (knocks again) Jennifer, it's Jo... Jennifer?
JENNIFER: (straightening her clothes and hair) Uh... Just a second, Jo!
She goes to open the door, then notices lipstick on JACK'S cheek and wipes it off.
JENNIFER: (muttering) Maybe we should rethink this working together thing...
JACK gives her a smirk as she opens the door.
JENNIFER: (cheerfully) Hi, Jo!
JO: Jennifer! I- (sees JACK, suddenly figures out what's been going on) Oh, you know, I can come back at another time-
JACK: Yes, perhaps you could-
JENNIFER: (overlapping) No, no, no! Don't be silly, please come in.
JO: Are you sure?
JACK: Yes, Jennifer, are you sure?
JENNIFER: (jabs JACK in the ribs) Of course I am.
JO: (smiles) All right... I'm not interrupting anything, am I?
JENNIFER: Nothing we can't get back to later...
JACK: (muttering) Yes, later... (to JO) So, what brings you to these parts?
JO: Oh, didn't Jennifer tell you?
JACK: (looking at JENNIFER) Tell me what?
JO: She asked me to come over here today. (to JENNIFER) I understood that right, didn't I? You did want me to come over, right?
JENNIFER: Yes, yes, I did. And you know what, Jack? I'm glad you're here too, 'cause this is something you should be here for.
JACK: Well, now you've piqued my curiosity. What's this all about?
OUT on JO looking back and forth between JACK and JENNIFER trying to figure out why she is here.
SCENE 4
IN PROGRESS
JO and JACK are curious why JENNIFER asked JO to come to her office.
JACK: (to JO) You sure didn't know anything about this?
JENNIFER: Come on, Jack, stop harassing your poor mother...
JACK: I am not harassing her! (JO laughs) Just... curious, that's all. (beat) So do we get to find what you want to talk to us about?
JENNIFER: All right, I had this really great idea the other day...
She notices the way JACK is looking at her.
JENNIFER: Don't give me that look... It really is a great idea!
JACK: Oh, no, no--this was not a look of doubt. I am not doubting you whatsoever. I mean, your ideas are always nothing short of brilliant.
JENNIFER: (smirks) Very funny. So anyway... as I was saying, (JACK grins at the phrase) I came up with this idea, and I thought, I have to tell Jo.
JO: Well... what is it, Jennifer?
JENNIFER: Jack, do you remember a conversation we had in your office a long time ago--when I was taking care of Hannah?
JACK: Oh, you mean that toddler diapers are too large for infants? Yes, Jennifer, I do believe I've come to that conclusion on my own with our daughter-
JENNIFER: No, Jack, another conversation we had.
JACK: All right, this could take all day, would you mind narrowing it down?
JENNIFER: (sighs) The conversation we had about having a day care center here at the paper. (beat) Ringing any bells yet?
JACK: (shrugs) I guess so- (figures it out) Oh, you want... you want...
JENNIFER: (nods) I want Jo to open up a day care center here. At The Spectator.
She looks at JO.
JENNIFER: Well? What do you think?
OUT on JO.
SCENE 5
JENNIFER has asked JO to run a day care center at the newspaper.
JO: Jennifer, I... I don't know what to say...
JENNIFER: (thinking JO must not like the idea) I'm sorry, Jo... I don't mean to put you on the spot... I mean you probably wanted to open your own center, so I shouldn't have been so presumptuous-
JO: No, no, it's not that at all, Jennifer!
JENNIFER: It isn't?
JACK: It isn't?
JO: (laughs) No! (beat) I'm just... so touched that you would think of me... I think a day care center here is a wonderful idea to begin with, but to ask me to run it--it's so kind of you.
JENNIFER: Believe me, I'm not doing it to be kind, Jo. I know you, and I know that no one would do a more fantastic job than you would. (holds up her hand) And I swear, the fact that you're my mother-in-law had nothing to do with it. No nepotism here.
JO: Well, it's certainly a very tempting offer... (looks at JACK) Son? What do you think about all this?
JACK isn't quite sure how he feels about JO working here, but he can see how happy it would make her.
JACK: I... I do believe the important thing here, Jo, is what you think.
JO: It isn't going to be uncomfortable for you, is it? Me working here?
JACK: (nervous laugh) Don't be ridiculous! It's... such a large building. We'd probably rarely run into each other while we're at work...
JO: (amused) So you're fine with this.
JACK: Hunky dory.
JO: And you're fine with me... working at the same place as Vern?
JACK tenses.
JO: You can be honest with me, Jack, I can take it. I'd rather know upfront.
JACK: Look, this is something that... you've worked really hard for. And I am not going to stand in your way.
JO: You mean it, son?
JACK looks at JENNIFER, who gives him an encouraging smile. He walks over to JO and extends his hand.
JACK: Welcome to The Spectator.
JO is overjoyed. She takes his hand, then pulls him into a hug. JACK looks at JENNIFER over JO'S shoulder. JENNIFER gives him a thumb's up sign, and finally, JACK reluctantly breaks into a half-smile, then gives her a thumbs up also.
OUT on the three.
EPISODE 40
SCENE 1
EXT. GRETA'S APARTMENT - DAY (A FEW DAYS AFTER EPISODE 39)
JACK and JENNIFER have come to interview GRETA about her upcoming coronation. They are walking down the hallway towards her apartment.
JENNIFER: I still keep getting daily phone calls from Vern, asking for updates at the office. The poor guy's going stir-crazy at home!
JACK: (with great annoyance) I don't see why, what with my mother to keep him company.
JENNIFER: Jack, she's at the day care center all day--it's not like she gets to spend all her time with him either.
JACK: Not during working hours, anyway. But after work... (shudders) That is a thought I'd just rather not entertain.
JENNIFER smiles and squeezes his hand. They come up to GRETA'S door and ring the doorbell.
GRETA (VO): Just a minute!
JACK: (looking around as they wait for GRETA) You know, one would think a princess could afford to live in something more upscale.
JENNIFER: Oh come on, it's not as if she's slumming it. This is a pretty ritzy apartment building. It's even got a doorman downstairs.
JACK gives her a look.
JENNIFER: All right, you have to admit, this isn't exactly the apartment we once had, remember?
JACK: (dryly) This isn't exactly the Palace of Versailles either. At the very least I expected her to be living in some sort of mansion-
GRETA opens the door.
GRETA: Mr. and Mrs. Deveraux?
JACK gives JENNIFER a nervous smile, hoping GRETA didn't here what he was just saying, then he looks at GRETA.
OUT on JACK'S smile.
SCENE 2
IN PROGRESS
GRETA has answered the door and is meeting JACK and JENNIFER for the first time.
JACK: (clears throat) Your highness.
GRETA: (giggles) Oh, please call me Greta. I'm afraid I'm still not quite used to all this formality that goes along with being a princess...
JACK: (smiles) With the coronation next week, you'll need to get used to it in a hurry. (holds out his hand, which GRETA shakes) Jack Deveraux, owner and publisher of The Spectator. (gestures towards JENNIFER) Jennifer Deveraux, my fiancée and co-publisher.
GRETA: (confused) Your fiancée? Oh, I thought... I mean, your names were the same, so I just thought... (embarrassed laugh) I'm sorry, I shouldn't have assumed-
JENNIFER: (exchanges smiles with JACK) No, it's okay, really. I can imagine it must be a bit confusing. If it makes you feel any better, even our families have trouble keeping up with us at times.
JACK: There are times when we can barely keep up with us.
GRETA: (smiles) I see.
JENNIFER: It's a long story, so I'll just give you the Readers Digest version. We were married once, but then we got divorced. I never changed my name back, though. Now we're going to get married again, and... well, you can see how it gets complicated...
GRETA: (laughs) Yes, I can... Wow, it all just sounds so romantic, though...
JENNIFER: (looks at JACK, who is now embarrassed) Yeah, I guess it is, isn't it?
GRETA: Oh gosh, where are my manners? Come in, please...
JACK and JENNIFER follow her in.
GRETA: Please have a seat-
The phone rings.
GRETA: Will you excuse me? I've been expecting this call from my mother's trustees--I'll only be a minute, I promise. I know you're both busy, and I don't want to take up too much of your time.
JACK: Not at all.
He watches her disappear into her bedroom to take the call, then he looks at JENNIFER.
JACK: That... is one unusual princess.
JENNIFER: (teasing him) Why, Jack? Because she doesn't live in a castle and have a wicked stepmother with a magic mirror?
JACK: (giving her a look) She may not have an evil stepmother, but from all accounts her mother was not exactly kind and benevolent. And then there's her tie to our good friend Ernesto Toscano, not to mention Stefano DiMera, which, oddly enough, involved us for a time being without our knowledge--something I still haven't quite absorbed. (beat) To think she was on that island with us...
JENNIFER: (smiling) Well, she wasn't there at the more... private spots.
JACK: (grins) Something for which to be grateful, no doubt.
JENNIFER: So, I see your imagination has already concocted a scenario full of intrigue.
JACK: As if you hadn't already thought of it yourself. (beat) I couldn't call you my protégée otherwise, Jennifer.
JENNIFER smiles.
JACK: I tell you something. Before this interview is over, you and I are going to know the entire story behind the mysterious Princess Greta von Amburg. With or without the fairy tale ending.
SCENE 3
INT. GRETA'S APARTMENT - LATER
JACK and JENNIFER are waiting for GRETA to finish her phone call. JENNIFER is sitting down at the couch, getting her notes ready, while JACK continues to stand and look at GRETA'S things, picking up random items and admiring them.
JENNIFER: (seeing what JACK is doing) Jack, could you please stop doing that?
JACK: Doing what?
JENNIFER: Going through her things like that... You're making me nervous.
JACK: What, afraid I'll break some royal heirloom?
JENNIFER: Well... I mean, what if these things are really valuable? They're probably irreplaceable. I just don't want us to take any chances, okay? Could you just... (JACK continues to look at a vase he's picked up) Come on, could you just sit down here with me until she comes back?
JACK: Lonely over there, are you?
JENNIFER: I'm serious.
JACK sighs and goes to place the vase back on the bookshelf when GRETA enters, startling him, causing him to almost drop the vase.
GRETA: Beautiful, isn't it?
JACK: (managing to save it before it falls) Uh, yes... Yes, it is... (laughs nervously) Even more beautiful in one piece, of course.
He hands it to her.
GRETA: (softly) It was my mother's. The people from her estate sent it to me after she died...
JACK and JENNIFER do not say anything.
GRETA: (snapping out of her reverie) I'm sorry, I didn't mean to space out like that. Sometimes it's just so hard to think that my mother's really gone. I was just getting to know her again, and then... (tries to compose herself) So... you, uh... you mentioned on the phone that you wanted to interview me. What do you want to know?
JACK sits down next to JENNIFER and pulls out his tape recorder, then sets in on the coffee table.
JACK: Everything you can possibly tell us. (beat) And please--don't leave out a single detail.
SCENE 4
INT. GRETA'S APARTMENT - LATER
GRETA is in the middle of telling JACK and JENNIFER her life story.
JENNIFER: And so Ernesto Toscano just handed you over to Stefano DiMera? Without even trying to help you first?
GRETA: (nods somberly) I had suited his purposes. He had already lost Isabella at that point, and his revenge on Mr. Kiriakis had been foiled. But he had succeeded in making Bo believe his wife was dead, so he no longer needed me. (beat) I was expendable.
JACK: And DiMera--you said he treated you well at this point?
GRETA: I know it's hard to believe, but Stefano never tried to hurt me. At least he tried to help me, which is more than Ernesto ever did. I had no idea what kind of a monster Stefano was until Bo and Hope told me.
JACK: Being evil twenty-four hours a day is exhausting, believe me. Even the most dastardly among us is capable of acts of compassion once in a full moon.
GRETA gives him a strange look.
JACK: (realizes how that must have sounded) Uh... elaborating on that would fall into the category of, 'another story for another time.'
JENNIFER: Greta, so far you've told us all about your mother, but you haven't said much about your father, Prince von Amburg.
GRETA becomes uncomfortable and looks away.
JENNIFER: I'm... sorry, did I say something wrong?
GRETA: No, no...
JACK: Then what is it, your highness? Is this topic something you'd rather not discuss today?
GRETA: (after a long pause) Well, it's just a delicate subject, that's all.
JACK: (intrigued) A delicate subject... One you don't wish us to pursue?
GRETA: It's... complicated... You see, Prince von Amburg... wasn't my real father.
OUT on JACK and JENNIFER'S surprise.
SCENE 5
IN PROGRESS
GRETA has just told JACK and JENNIFER that PRINCE VON AMBURG was not her real father.
JACK: Well... That is quite a revelation...
GRETA: You can understand why it's not an easy thing for me to talk about.
JACK: Of course, of course. If you'd rather we keep this part of the conversation off the record, we will certainly respect that.
GRETA: Thank you, Mr. Deveraux. It's, um... It's not that I mind talking about it, but it's just not something I wish to publicize. (beat) At least not at this time.
JACK: Does that mean you may... in the future?
GRETA becomes uncomfortable again.
JENNIFER: Uh, Greta, I assure you, Jack and I aren't here to probe into something you don't want to go into. We just want our readers to get to know you--the woman behind the princess.
GRETA: (smiles) I know you don't mean any harm. And I do appreciate you respecting my privacy. I really don't mind talking about my life, but this is... well, it's complicated.
JENNIFER: Yes, I see.
JACK: It must have been difficult for you. Finding out the truth about Prince von Amburg.
JENNIFER looks over at him and gives him a small smile.
GRETA: Yeah, it was. Everything I had grown up believing was a lie, and... I wasn't quite prepared to handle the truth when my mother told me.
JACK: (quietly) How could anyone be.
JENNIFER: So your mother did tell you the truth? About who your biological father was?
OUT on GRETA'S discomfort.
SCENE 6
IN PROGRESS
JENNIFER has asked if GRETA'S mother told her who her father was.
JENNIFER: I'm sorry, if you don't want to answer that, that's fine. This is all off the record anyway-
GRETA: No, it's all right, really. I don't mind you asking.
JENNIFER: I assure you, we won't print anything you're not comfortable with... (to JACK) Right, Jack?
JACK: Absolutely. I mean, inquiring minds want to know, of course, but we won't proceed without your full cooperation.
GRETA: (smiles) Thank you, that's very kind of you both. I, um... I guess I'm just not used to talking about this yet. It's still a lot to deal with.
JACK: I understand.
GRETA: (starts to get up) Uh... I hate to cut this short, but I'm supposed to meet with one of my mother's trustees in about an hour. I'm leaving for Paris this afternoon, so there's a lot of last minute things to take care of before I go.
JACK and JENNIFER get up as well.
JACK: Oh, of course...
JENNIFER: We should be getting back to the office, anyway. (holds out her hand) Thank you for meeting with us, Greta. It was a pleasure.
GRETA: (shaking JENNIFER'S hand, then JACK'S hand) I was happy to do it. I read The Spectator every day, so it was a treat to meet the people who run it.
JACK: I hope you've noticed the improvements since Jennifer and I took over.
GRETA: (laughing) Like night and day.
JACK: That's what I like to hear.
JENNIFER: (to GRETA, as she gives JACK a teasing smile) A little flattery goes a long way.
JACK and JENNIFER leave GRETA'S apartment and get in the elevator.
JENNIFER: So...
JACK: Yes?
JENNIFER: What's going on in that brilliant mind of yours?
OUT on JACK'S smile.
SCENE 7
IN PROGRESS
JENNIFER has just asked JACK what he thinks about the interview with GRETA.
JACK: You do know how to stroke my ego, don't you?
JENNIFER: (grins) Among other things.
JACK: (half-smiles) Indeed.
JENNIFER: Well, you'd woven quite a story in your head before the interview. What do you think now? Are you convinced yet that she's a perfectly normal princess?
JACK starts to say something when his cell phone rings.
JACK: Jack Deveraux.
CUT TO: ABBY ON THE OTHER LINE
ABBY: Hi, Daddy!
JACK: Abigail! Wait... what's wrong? Is something wrong? Is your grandmother all right?
ABBY: (giggles) Daddy, you worry too much.
JACK: (looks at JENNIFER) Did Mommy tell you that?
ABBY: Grandma's fine. She's watching the kids. She said I could sit at her desk so I could do my homework.
JACK: I see, and does your homework involve calling your parents? Not that I don't enjoy talking to my beloved little girl.
ABBY: I'm taking a break.
JACK: Oh, a break. Yes, of course.
ABBY: Grandma said you and Mommy went to interview a real princess today!
JACK: Yes, we did.
ABBY: What was she like?
JACK: Well, she was... I tell you what, kiddo, she's got nothing over you.
ABBY: Really?
JACK: Really. This is my completely unbiased opinion of course, but Mommy and I happen to think we have the world's most perfect princess.
ABBY laughs.
JACK: All right, sweetheart, better get back to that homework. We'll see you in a bit when we get back to the office.
ABBY: Okay, Daddy! (hangs up)
JACK: She wanted to know how the interview went.
JENNIFER: (smiling) Ah. Very involved, our little girl is.
JACK: Never too early to indoctrinate them.
JENNIFER: You still haven't answered my question, Jack.
JACK: (feigning ignorance) Didn't I?
JENNIFER shakes her head.
JACK: Could you repeat the question please?
JENNIFER: What do you think about Greta now? Still think she's a woman of mystery?
JACK: (arches an eyebrow) Well, I have to admit, the girl herself seems perfectly normal. Taste in abode notwithstanding. But there is something about all this that's not quite kosher. Something I can't put my finger on.
JENNIFER: That's the Jack I love. Always spinning a mystery.
JACK: (smiling) Mark my words, Jennifer. There is a big story waiting to happen with Princess von Amburg. And when it hits, you and I will be the first to pounce on it.
OUT on the two.
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