SCENE 2

INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S BEDROOM - SAME

JACK and JENNIFER are packing for their trip to Paris. ABBY is with them in their room, helping them pack.

ABBY: (holding up JACK'S tuxedo tie) Does everyone have to get dressed up for Princess Greta's coronation?

JENNIFER: Yup. It's a really fancy ball, so they want us all to look very special.

ABBY: Is it like the ball that Cinderella went to?

JENNIFER: (laughs) I guess it is a little bit like that.

JACK: Except Cinderella's ball did not have two award-winning journalists in attendance. (to ABBY) Right, Miss Happily-ever-after?

ABBY giggles.

JENNIFER: Well, that's true. Although all the women do get to wear fancy gowns and jewelry, and all the men get to wear tuxedos.

ABBY: Like the one Daddy wore for your wedding?

JENNIFER: Yeah, baby, just like that.

ABBY: Daddy, you looked really handsome in your tuxedo.

JACK: Well, thank you, Miss Best-dressed-list. (kisses the top of her head) And Mommy looked pretty amazing on that day too, didn't she?

JENNIFER smiles at the two of them.

ABBY: Oh, yes! Mommy, you looked so pretty!

JENNIFER: Thank you, baby...

JACK and JENNIFER go back to packing. ABBY sees JENNIFER'S rather revealing negligee and holds it up.

ABBY: What's this, Mommy?

JENNIFER: (not looking) What's what, honey?

ABBY: This.

JENNIFER turns her head and sees what ABBY is holding.

OUT on JACK and JENNIFER as they look at each other in horror.

SCENE 3

IN PROGRESS

ABBY has found JENNIFER'S negligee and is wondering what it is.

ABBY: What is it, Mommy?

JENNIFER: It's, um... It's-

ABBY: Is it like underwear?

JENNIFER: (trying to pretend that nothing is wrong) Uh, well... yeah, sort of... (takes it from ABBY)

ABBY: It looks kind of uncomfortable.

JACK is trying not to laugh. JENNIFER glares at him for leaving it all to her to explain this to ABBY.

JENNIFER: (smiles at ABBY) It's not... it's, um... (looks at JACK, who is thoroughly amused by all of this) You know what, sweetie, Daddy and I are just about done here, so why don't you go downstairs and wait for Grandma Jo to get here?

ABBY: Okay, Mommy.

She leaves. JENNIFER swats JACK on the arm.

JACK: (laughing) What?

JENNIFER: Thanks for jumping in there.

JACK: You were doing so well, I didn't want to break your stride.

JENNIFER: Your thoughtfulness never ceases to amaze me, Jack Deveraux.

JACK: Just be glad she didn't find the miracle diaphragm-

JENNIFER: (pokes her finger at his chest) All right, now you are really skating on thin ice-

JACK interrupts her with a kiss.

JENNIFER: Oh, I see, you think I'll let you off the hook that easily, do you?

JACK: (grinning) Basically, yes. If I've learned anything, it's that there's only one surefire way to get you to stop talking, and that's to kiss you.

JENNIFER: (smirks) Cute.

She goes back to packing.

JENNIFER: Could you hand me my hairdryer, Jack?

JACK: (giving her the hairdryer) Uh, Jennifer... You do realize we will only be in Paris for one week.

JENNIFER: Mmm hmm.

JACK: That's one week, not six.

JENNIFER: What are you trying to tell me, that I'm packing too much?

JACK: (looks at all the suitcases) Well, considering my things are in this one carry-on bag, and you've got, oh, let's see here... three suitcases... Yes, I am telling you that you're packing too much.

JENNIFER: Jack, this is how much I packed for the cruise.

JACK: (dryly) My point exactly.

JENNIFER: I just want to be prepared for anything and everything.

JACK: I see. Just in case we encounter any life-threatening emergencies which would require several changes of clothing?

JENNIFER: Well, knowing our luck...

JACK: Look, Jennifer, I admire your preparedness, but there is nothing to-

The phone rings. JENNIFER answers it.

JENNIFER: Deveraux residence.

CUT TO: VERN ON THE OTHER LINE

VERN: Jenny-girl, it's me, Vern.

JENNIFER: Hi, Vern, what's up?

VERN: Listen, I know you and Jack are getting ready to leave for Paris later today, but I have to talk to you both. It's urgent.

JENNIFER: (worried) What's going on?

VERN: I can't explain over the phone. But it's really important that I see you two over at The Spectator right away. (beat) Jenny-girl, I wouldn't be running the risk ruining your plans like this if I didn't think this was a good reason.

OUT on JENNIFER giving JACK a worried look.

SCENE 4

INT. JACK'S OFFICE AT THE SPECTATOR - LATER

VERN has asked JACK and JENNIFER to come meet him at THE SPECTATOR.

JACK: (seeing VERN) All right, you've got some explaining to do. First of all, you are still supposed to be 'recuperating'--work should be the farthest thing from your mind!

VERN: Not now, Jack. This isn't the time for a lecture-

JACK: Like hell it's not. You are under strict orders from the doctor to take it easy and I am not going to be the cause of another heart attack, do you hear me?

VERN: There isn't time for this-

JENNIFER: Okay, okay... (whistles to get their attention) To your corners, you two. (beat) Jack, let's just let Vern tell us what this is all about.

VERN: Thank you, Jenny-girl. (glares at JACK) As I was saying... I would never have tried to put a damper on your plans if I didn't think you should know about this right away.

JENNIFER: Vern, this sounds serious... You had me pretty worried on the phone earlier.

VERN: I think it is serious.

JACK: (realizing how important this may be) All right, let's hear it. What's this all about?

VERN: Well, I guess I should start from the beginning. You see, I've been checking my voicemail here at work pretty regularly. I didn't want to be too out of the loop when I come back next month. A few hours ago, I checked my voicemail, and... well, I think you two should listen to it yourselves.

JACK and JENNIFER look at each other as VERN goes behind the desk and turns accesses his voicemail. He turns the speakerphone on so JACK and JENNIFER can hear.

MALE VOICE (V.O.): This is a message for Vern Scofield... I can't tell you who I am, or how I know this, but... something's about to go down at Princess von Amburg's coronation this week...

Immediately, JACK and JENNIFER exchange a look of shock and concern.

MALE VOICE (V.O.): I can't say much or they'll find out I told you, but... Kate Kiriakis is up to something. She's hired a hit man to kill her old man... says she's angry about how he's betrayed her and how he's about to divorce her and leave her penniless and take full custody of their little boy... I can't tell you any more than this... I've already told you enough-

The voice ends abruptly, replaced by static. VERN turns off the speaker phone and straightens to get a look at JACK and JENNIFER'S reaction.

OUT on JACK and JENNIFER, who are speechless.

SCENE 5

IN PROGRESS

JACK and JENNIFER have just heard the mysterious voicemail left for VERN, revealing a plot to have VICTOR killed.

VERN: (after a few more moments of tense silence) Well?

JACK looks at him.

VERN: One of you please say something. You're giving me the creeps.

JACK: (carefully) I'm not sure what to say, Vern.

VERN: Now you know how I was a few hours ago when I heard it.

JENNIFER: Are you sure we can trust this? I mean, this is pretty explosive information...

JACK: Downright fatal.

VERN: So, do you think we should go to the police with this? To Victor?

JACK: No! Definitely not to Victor.

VERN: Oh, Jack, come on... I know there's no love lost between you and Victor, but do you really want to see him dead?

JACK: What are you talking about, Vern? I don't want to see Victor dead! I mean yes, granted, we have never been, nor will we ever be the best of friends, but I am not so heartless as to want to see the man die as a result of a cold-blooded plot.

VERN: Then why did you say-

JACK: I just meant we shouldn't go to Victor with the information.

JENNIFER: Why not? He has the right to know if there's any chance of it being true...

JACK: And what if it's not? What if it's some sort of hoax, and we go to him with this? What if we get accused of making threats to the man?

JENNIFER: I don't know, Jack... God forbid anything should happen and we knew something, but didn't tell him--I'd never be able to forgive myself if that happened...

JACK sighs and begins to pace.

JENNIFER: I just... I just can't wrap my mind around it. I mean, the caller said that Kate hired someone to kill him--Kate! I know she's ruthless, but... I just can't believe she could be capable of murder...

JACK: (quietly) People can surprise you with what they're capable of. (beat) She was really angry the day I saw her at Titan a few weeks ago, after Victor and I had closed our deal. I would even go so far as to say she was incensed. I could still hear their screaming match when I got into the elevator.

JENNIFER: I can believe that she was that mad, but to plot to kill your husband...

VERN: I tell you one thing--I am glad I never got on her bad side.

JENNIFER gives him a weak smile.

JENNIFER: What are we going to do, Jack?

JACK: I tell you what we're going to do. We're going to tell the one person who's not only going to want to know this information, but is going to be able to do something about it.

OUT on JACK.

SCENE 6

INT. JACK'S OFFICE AT THE SPECTATOR - LATER

JACK and JENNIFER are playing the cryptic voicemail over the speakerphone again.

MALE VOICE (V.O): ... I can't tell you any more than this... I've already told you enough-

BO: (straightens, looks at VERN) You're sure there's no more to this message?

VERN: No, there's nothing after that. I've checked a dozen times.

BO: And this person has never called you before?

VERN: Never. I don't even know why he picked me to call, except that I'd been doing the series on Greta's coronation, so I guess he assumed I'd be the one going to Paris to cover the actual event.

HOPE: (watching BO) What are you thinking, Brady?

BO: (grimly) I'm thinking Victor needs to know about this.

JACK: All right, it's settled then--we'll go to Victor's right now and tell him-

BO: Wait a minute, what are you talking about, we?

JACK: What do you mean, what am I talking about? We brought this to your attention, so naturally we are going to Victor's-

BO: Correction, Hope and I are going to Victor's to tell him.

JACK: But it's our voicemail- (sees VERN, clears his throat) I mean, Vern's voicemail... But Vern's on medical leave, and Jennifer and I are in his stead, therefore-

BO: Therefore, we'll leave the reporting business to you and Jennifer, and you'll leave the police business to me and Hope. Got that?

JENNIFER looks at HOPE, who just shrugs her shoulders.

HOPE: Sorry, Jen. I'm with Bo on this one. Why don't you guys finish the rest of your packing so we can meet you at the airport tonight?

JACK: But-

BO: (firmly) We'll take care of it. Trust us.

JENNIFER: (to HOPE) Will you at least let us know what happens?

HOPE: Yes, of course, we will... (hugs JENNIFER) We'll see you two later.

JENNIFER: Okay...

JACK: (to BO) I'll expect an exclusive when all the dust is settled.

BO: (cracks a smile) Whatever it takes to get you two snoops out of the way, I promise.

OUT on JACK and JENNIFER exchanging a conspiratorial smile.

SCENE 7

INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S CAR - LATER

JACK and JENNIFER are driving home.

JENNIFER: What do you think's going to happen?

JACK: I haven't the slightest. (looks over at her) But I tell you one thing, Bo's not going to let anything happen to Victor.

JENNIFER: No, you're right, he wouldn't. I mean, I know they've never had the best of relationships, but they've come a long way over the years. Bo would do whatever he could to protect his father.

JACK: If this is true... Kate's going to be sorry she ever chose to cross Victor...

JENNIFER: Well, it looks like we're going to have a big story brewing after all. (looks over at him and smiles) And you thought it was just going to be a boring coronation.

JACK: No, I am thoroughly convinced now that this will be anything but a boring coronation...

SCENE 8

INT. AN UNIDENTIFIED ROOM - EVENING

The two men who were on the phone earlier are having another phone conversation.

MAN #1: We'll be leaving for Paris tonight. Are your men ready?

CUT TO: MAN #2 ON THE OTHER LINE

MAN #2: Everything is according to your plans, sir. It should all go off without a hitch.

MAN #1: (laughs) Then this will be a coronation to remember. (beat) Let the games begin.

OUT on the mystery man.

EPISODE 42

SCENE 1

INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT (SAME DAY AS EPISODE 41)

JACK and JENNIFER are getting ready to leave for the airport to fly to PARIS. JENNIFER is running around all over the house making sure she has not forgotten any last minute things, followed closely by JO, who is trying to keep up with her.

JENNIFER: (going over a mental checklist as she navigates through the furniture) The bus driver comes by at 6:45 every morning... He usually stops at the corner so Abby doesn't have to cross the street, but just in case he doesn't, could you please keep an eye on her to make sure she looks both ways? Oh, and she's got a piano lesson on Tuesday after school. Her teacher's address is on the fridge... I made a list of the phone numbers and addresses for the parents of all of her friends at school--those should be on the fridge too, and... let's see, what else have I forgotten... (stops and thinks)

JO: (amused) I think I've got it, Jennifer. (touches her on the shoulder) Now, don't you worry, I'll take good care of this little doll.

ABBY laughs at JO'S nickname for her.

JENNIFER: (embarrassed smile) You're right, Jo. And I do trust you, I hope you know that. I know you'll take really good care of her, it's just... well, you know, it's hard to leave your baby-

ABBY: (offended) Mommy! I'm not a baby anymore--I'm eight and a half!

JENNIFER: You're right, sweetie, I'm sorry. (exchanges grins with JO) You are a big girl now, aren't you? But you know what? (cups ABBY'S face) It's still hard to be away from you for this long.

JACK comes down the stairs, struggling with a very heavy suitcase. He plops the suitcase down beside the other ones at the door and goes into the living room.

JACK: (out of breath) All right, I think I got the last of them down-

JENNIFER: Oh my gosh! Jack, why didn't you ask me to help you? (rushes over to him) Look at you, you can't be exerting yourself like that yet...

JACK: Perhaps you should have thought of that, then, before you packed your entire wardrobe for this trip.

JENNIFER smirks.

JACK: Any other cargo you'd like to add at the last minute?

JENNIFER: Gee, I just love it when you're being overdramatic.

JACK: (grins, kisses her on the forehead) Yes. That's why I do it.

Outside, the cab arrives and honks its horn.

JACK: Ah, our chariot awaits.

JENNIFER: (gasps) Shoot, my passport--I left it upstairs! Jack, could you stall the cab? I'll be right back...

JACK: Cer- (she brushes past him as she bolts up the stairs) -tainly...

He opens the door and gestures to the cab to wait, then turns back to JO and ABBY and smiles awkwardly.

JACK: So...

JO: Yes?

JACK: (clears throat) You're, uh... you're sure you'll be all right here?

OUT on JO'S amusement.

SCENE 2

IN PROGRESS

JACK wants to make sure JO will be all right taking care of ABBY by herself.

JACK: You two will be all right here... right?

JO: (smiles) Yes, son, we will.

JACK: You're absolutely positive?

JO: Yes-

JACK: Because I'm sure we could get someone to help you out. I mean... you could, you know... (clenches teeth) even get Vern to come over, if that would make you feel more comfortable-

JO: (amused) Well, that's very sweet of you to offer, Jack, but I don't think that'll be necessary. It's not like this is the first time I've baby-sat, you know. In fact, if you remember, I took care of this little one lots of times when she was a baby--not to mention your sister's four very active, very rambunctious little boys. And I run a day care center, for heaven's sakes! I've done this plenty of times before, son.

JACK: Yes, but never for this long, Jo.

JO: (laughs) It's only a week!

JACK: A week is a long time-

JO: It'll be over before you know it. You'll see.

JACK: I'm sorry, I'm sorry. Look, I know I'm being... overanxious. But I am leaving you in charge of my firstborn here.

ABBY looks at JO and giggles. JO grins back at her.

JO: Firstborn? Why, Jack... Does this mean there's going to be... more children in the near future?

JACK: (regretting his choice of words) Please, don't-

ABBY: (excitedly) Really, Daddy??

JACK sighs.

ABBY: Are you and Mommy going to have another baby soon??

JACK: (to JO) Now look what you've started... (to ABBY) No, sweetheart, we're not having a baby. Not yet-

JENNIFER: (overhearing) Baby...? (looks at JACK in surprise) What's going on here?

JACK gives her a "don't ask" look. The cab honks again.

JENNIFER: All right, we should get going...

JACK: (scoops up ABBY in his arms) You, my Cherie Amour, do you promise to behave?

ABBY: Uh huh!

JACK: And do you promise to listen to your grandmother, and do everything she tells you to do?

ABBY: Uh huh!

JACK: And do you promise not to give her any trouble and eat whatever she makes for you, even (whispers) green noodle tuna casserole?

ABBY: (loudly) But I like green noodle tuna casserole!

JO overhears and laughs, while JACK is embarrassed.

JENNIFER: Okay, baby, we have to go... (kisses ABBY) I love you! I'll miss you so much, but we'll call you every night, okay?

ABBY: Okay, Mommy!

JACK: (setting her down) Au revoir, Abigail. (kisses her)

ABBY: Au revoir, Daddy! Bon Voyage!

OUT on JACK and JENNIFER as they exchange amused grins.

SCENE 3

INT. A CAB - LATER

JACK and JENNIFER are on their way to the airport. JENNIFER has been quiet for a few moments, and is staring out the window.

JACK: I can almost guarantee you the scenery won't change in the week we'll be gone.

JENNIFER: Hmm?

JACK: (grins) You were admiring the view as if you'd never see it again.

JENNIFER: Oh... (laughs) I guess I was a little preoccupied, huh?

JACK: Yes, somewhat.

JENNIFER smiles.

JACK: Missing Abigail already, aren't you?

JENNIFER: Yeah, I am... But that's not it.

JACK: I see. You're thinking about Bo and Hope then, I take it.

JENNIFER: (nodding) I just wish they had let us go with them to Victor's. I can't stand knowing something this huge is going on and-

JACK: And we're not part of it?

JENNIFER smiles sheepishly and nods.

JACK: Look, two of Salem's finest are on the case. They'll handle it well, I'm sure.

JENNIFER: This from the man who was so offended at not being allowed to tag along earlier.

JACK: (gives her a look) I didn't say I didn't agree with you. It is rather frustrating to be out of the loop. But I tell you something--we will not be out of the loop for long.

JENNIFER: What does that mean?

JACK: Well, what do you think it means, Lois Lane?

JENNIFER: I don't know... But I think it means you're about to get us in a lot of trouble.

OUT on JACK'S grin.

SCENE 4

IN PROGRESS

JENNIFER wonders what JACK is up to.

JENNIFER: You have no idea how much it scares me when you get that look in your eyes.

JACK: (feigning ignorance) And what look would that be?

JENNIFER (grabs his chin to make him face her) That wicked gleam in your eye. That same gleam you had when you were plotting to kidnap me on my wedding day-

JACK: Correction--your ersatz wedding-

JENNIFER: -and when you told me your were dropping the von Leuschner series, but kept on snooping around behind my back-

JACK: And you weren't snooping around behind my back?

JENNIFER: -and when you-

JACK: Yes, I'm beginning to get the point, Jennifer. (beat) Are you saying I'm a sneak?

JENNIFER: (smiles) First class.

JACK: (grins) All right, if that's the way you feel... then I'll just refrain from sharing my plan with you-

JENNIFER: (grabs his arm) Oh no, you don't--you can't hold back from me, Jack Deveraux!

JACK looks out the window, then smiles back at JENNIFER.

JACK: Oh, look, we're here...

JENNIFER: Wait a minute! Jack!

JACK: (already exiting the car) Come on, Jennifer, Bo and Hope are expecting us...

JENNIFER: Jack!

She groans in frustration, then finally sighs and gets out of the car.

JENNIFER: All right, Jack, what do you have up your sleeve?

He starts to say something, but sees BO and HOPE approaching.

JACK: (whispers so only JENNIFER can hear) You'll find out soon enough, Miss H.

OUT on JENNIFER'S curiosity.

SCENE 5

INT. SALEM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT - LATER

JACK, JENNIFER, BO, and HOPE are in line to check-in. JACK and JENNIFER are dying to know what happened at VICTOR'S.

JENNIFER: So? Are you going to tell us what Victor said when you told him?

BO tenses up. JACK and JENNIFER notice he seems upset, and exchange curious looks.

JENNIFER: (to HOPE, so BO does not hear) Hope, what's wrong?

HOPE pulls JENNIFER aside. JACK follows, but HOPE gives him a look. He smiles and steps back in line with BO.

JENNIFER: Did I say something wrong?

HOPE: No, no, it's just... It was weird, Jen. Victor didn't seem to want to take this threat too seriously. It's like he's not even that worried about it.

JENNIFER: What do you mean? How can he afford not to take this seriously? I mean, even Jack saw how furious Kate was when she found out Victor sold The Spectator behind her back... What if she really is capable of plotting something like this? How can he take that risk?

HOPE: (shrugs) I don't know. And get this--he already knew about the threats... When we told him, he said that he had already been "made aware of the situation" and that he had taken the "appropriate steps."

JENNIFER makes a face.

HOPE: Yeah, I know. Bo tried to get through to him and tell him that he should get some police protection, but he said it was already taken care of that that we didn't need to worry about it.

JENNIFER: Sounds like he's taking Kate a little too lightly.

HOPE: That's exactly what Bo thinks. (looks over at BO and sighs) He thinks Victor's making a big mistake in underestimating Kate. We'll just have to keep an eye on him from a distance if he insists on refusing our help. But I don't know if even that's enough to make Bo any less uneasy about this whole thing.

JENNIFER: Well, at least it's good that you two are looking into it-

JACK: (sneaking into the conversation) Having a nice chat, are we, ladies?

HOPE: Yes, as a matter of fact--and we were just wrapping it up, weren't we Jen?

JACK: (smirks) Ah yes, just in the nick of time, right?

HOPE: (winks) Exactly. (to JENNIFER) We'll talk later. (leaves to rejoin BO in line)

JACK: (watches her leave, then turns to JENNIFER) What was that all about?

JENNIFER: Good question. This whole thing is getting weirder and weirder by the minute, Jack...

OUT on JENNIFER shaking her head.

SCENE 6

INT. AN AIRPLANE - LATER

JACK and JENNIFER are snuggled together, with JENNIFER sleeping on JACK'S shoulder. JACK can not sleep and has his laptop out, and is trying to work on an article, but can not concentrate properly.

JACK: (muttering) It just doesn't make sense...

JENNIFER: (waking up) What doesn't make sense, Jack?

JACK: I'm... I'm sorry, I didn't mean to wake you... Go back to sleep-

JENNIFER: (groggily) No, it's okay... What were you saying just now?

JACK: Nothing, nothing. Just the crazy ramblings of someone between time zones.

JENNIFER gives JACK a look.

JACK: What?

JENNIFER: Who do you think you're fooling, Jack?

JACK: Whom.

JENNIFER: Jack-

JACK: (sighs) Three instances of my name in the span of a minute. That can only mean you want my attention.

JENNIFER: Score one for you. Now, would you mind telling me what's on your mind?

JACK: Well, when you put it that way... (closes his laptop) I was just musing over the Victor situation, that's all. Rather difficult to motivate myself to write this article about the coronation ball when we both know a real story is brewing--and it ain't going to be about the princess getting her crown.

JENNIFER: I know. (lays her head on his shoulder again) I guess we'll just have to keep our eyes and ears open while we do the work we came here to do.

JACK: Easier said than done. (beat) Why is it that we seem to always end up in situations like these?

JENNIFER: (smiles) Because we're just lucky that way?

OUT on the two.

SCENE 7

INT. THE GRAND BALLROOM - SAME

Two men are speaking, but their faces are not shown.

MAN #1: Have the guards all been paid off?

MAN #2: I talked to them all this morning, sir. I assure you, they will do as we ask.

MAN #1: Good. So he'll have no problem getting in here tomorrow evening?

MAN #2: None whatsoever. And he will be well-concealed. No one will ever be able to see him behind this screen, but he should have a clear enough line of vision to get good aim.

MAN #1: Well done.

A woman has now joined them.

WOMAN: Yes, you'll be well-rewarded for your efforts here. (turns to MAN #1) After tomorrow, nothing's going to stand in our way, is it?

Camera pulls back to reveal their faces: it is LAWRENCE ALAMAIN and CARLY MANNING.

OUT on the two as they smile at each other.

EPISODE 43

SCENE 1

INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S HOTEL ROOM - DAY (THE DAY AFTER EPISODE 42)

It is the morning after JACK and JENNIFER have arrived in Paris. An excited JENNIFER wakes up early and can not get back to sleep. Finally, she can not wait any more. She gets up and throws open the curtains, then sighs as she admires the view.

JENNIFER: (murmurs) It doesn't get any more spectacular than this view...

JACK: (overhearing) Oh, I don't know... I can think of one view in particular that's even more incredible. (grins) As a matter of fact, I'm looking at her right now.

JENNIFER: (jumps onto the bed with him) My, what did I do to get such a compliment?

JACK: Are you telling me I've been remiss in letting my ex-wife-soon-to-be-wife-again know how beautiful she is?

JENNIFER: Yes, that's exactly what I'm telling you. But lucky for you, it's easy to make up for such an oversight.

JACK: Well, that's good to hear-

JENNIFER interrupts him with a kiss, then tries to pull him off the bed.

JENNIFER: All right, Deveraux. (in between kisses) Enough sleep for you-

JACK: But-

JENNIFER: There's a whole city out there to explore, so let's get moving-

JACK: Jennifer...

JENNIFER: (goes into the bathroom to get dressed) Okay, I thought we'd tackle the Louvre first, since that's going to take the most time. What do you think?

JACK: Jennifer-

JENNIFER: Gosh, I haven't been there since Carly and I came here one Spring Break... (comes out of the bathroom, sees that JACK has not gotten out of bed) Jack, come on! I know I take a lot longer to get ready than you do, but we really should get going if we want to get in some sightseeing before we get ready for the ball tonight.

JACK: Well, uh... you see...

JENNIFER: (seeing something is wrong) What... What is it?

JACK: I'm just afraid I'm not quite up to a lot of sightseeing today...

JENNIFER: (really worried) Why, what's wrong? Are you feeling all right? Do you feel run-down after that flight last night? Oh my gosh, you didn't forget your meds, did you? I know I packed them-

She notices JACK is smiling.

JENNIFER: (narrows her eyes) Wait a minute...

JACK: (feigning innocence) What?

JENNIFER: You are cruel, you know that?

JACK: I beg your pardon?

JENNIFER: Oh no, no, no... Don't play innocent with me, Jack Deveraux. I know you. You're just pretending not to feel well, aren't you?

JACK: (grins) Now, why in the world would I do that?

He reaches for her hand and gently pulls her onto the bed. JENNIFER tries to stay mad at him, but can't help but smile as he pulls her close.

JENNIFER: I should walk out this door right now after this stunt you just tried to pull...

JACK: (begins to kiss her neck) I know, I know... It's an awful thing I did...

JENNIFER: Worrying me like that...

JACK: Yes, terrible...

JENNIFER: (swooning) I mean, the last thing I should do... is encourage you...

JACK: (kisses her lips) What if I promised to make it up?

JENNIFER: (in between kisses) Well... I guess I could let you try...

OUT on the their giddy laughter as they continue to kiss and fall backward onto the bed.

SCENE 2

INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S HOTEL ROOM - LATER

JACK and JENNIFER are snuggling in bed after having made love. By the bed is a tray with breakfast. JENNIFER reaches over JACK to get a strawberry. JACK watches with amusement as she devours it and reaches for another one.

JACK: Worked up quite an appetite, haven't we?

JENNIFER: (grins) Whose fault is that?

JACK: (grabs the strawberry from her) Admit it--it was worth putting off the sightseeing for a few hours.

JENNIFER: I knew you were going to gloat. (breaks into a smile, then sits up) Okay, Jack. I guess you, um... earned the right to choose where we go first today.

JACK: Well, as a matter of fact... I did have something in mind...

JENNIFER: (gives him a teasing smile) Does it involve something outside of this room?

JACK: (laughs sarcastically) Yes, as much as I hate to disappoint you, it does involve us stepping outside of this room.

JENNIFER: Ooh, then I am definitely interested in hearing about this.

JACK: You should be.

JENNIFER: All right, Jack, where do we go first? The Eiffel Tower? The Louvre? The-

JACK: Actually, what I had in mind wasn't quite that... touristy.

JENNIFER gives him a look of curiosity.

JACK: Although I imagine we'll see quite a bit of the city today.

JENNIFER: I'm afraid to ask.

OUT on JACK'S smile.

SCENE 3

INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S HOTEL ROOM - LATER

JENNIFER is now dressed and watching JACK as he's getting ready. He has told her about his idea of what they should do today.

JENNIFER: This is insane, Jack.

JACK: (as he's buttoning his shirt) Thanks for the vote of confidence.

JENNIFER: I'm serious.

JACK: So am I.

JENNIFER: We're going to get caught--I'm telling you, we're going to get caught.

JACK: Not if we do this the way we used to do it back in the old days. The way I taught you.

JENNIFER: (sighs) What possessed me to agree to this?

She throws up her hands in the air, then starts to turn away, but JACK gets a hold of her arm before she does.

JACK: Now, what kind of talk is that? The Jennifer Horton Deveraux I know would be the first one to jump on this idea--she'd even be the one to suggest it.

JENNIFER: (concedes) I hate it when you're right.

JACK: (smiles) Ah, how I love the sound of that.

JENNIFER gives him a look.

JACK: All right, that's my cue to quit while I'm ahead. (beat) Ready, Mrs. D.? Time's a wastin'.

JENNIFER: How do we even know where to look for Kate? I mean, this is a big city, Jack. We don't know what hotel she's staying in, or what she's going to do today-

JACK: Please, Jennifer. Did you really think I wouldn't do my homework?

JENNIFER: (surprised) Are you saying you know where she's staying here in Paris?

JACK: Was there ever any doubt?

JENNIFER: Well... Where do you think she is?

JACK: With the one person she's still got on her side. Billie.

OUT on JACK.

SCENE 4

EXT. A SIDEWALK CAFE - LATER

JACK and JENNIFER are sitting at a cafe across the street from BILLIE REED'S townhouse, waiting for KATE to come out.

JENNIFER: Jack, this is ridiculous. She may not come out until hours from now--she may not even be there anymore. What if she already went out before we even got here?

JACK: Have a little faith-

Suddenly, they see KATE come out of the townhouse.

JACK: Quick, there she is! Come on, let's go-

JENNIFER: Wait a minute, we haven't paid for our lattes yet-

JACK: Forget about that, if we don't leave now, we'll lose her-

BILLIE: How typical. Jack Deveraux, still trying to get away with not paying for something.

JACK freezes in his spot. He recognizes BILLIE'S voice immediately and turns around slowly.

BILLIE: Nice to see you again, Jack.

JACK: Ms. Reed.

BILLIE: Hi, Jen.

JENNIFER: Billie, hey... How are you, it's been a long time...

BILLIE: Yes, it has. And I see you're still with this charmer.

JENNIFER: (laughs) Of course.

BILLIE: So, where were you two off to in such a hurry?

OUT on JACK and JENNIFER looking at each other.

SCENE 5

IN PROGRESS

JACK and JENNIFER have just run into BILLIE and in the process, have lost KATE, whom they had been trying to tail.

JACK: Uh... where were we headed just now?

BILLIE: Yes, Jack, that's what I asked.

JACLK: (laughs nervously) Well, Ms. Reed, don't tell me living here these past few years has made you so jaded. We are in Paris, after all--of course we were about to go sightseeing.

BILLIE: (thinking he's acting a bit oddly) Oh, right. Sightseeing.

JACK: Yes, you know, the Eiffel Tower, shopping on the Champs Elysse... Jennifer doesn't want to leave any store unvisited. (to JENNIFER) Don't you, lotus blossom?

JENNIFER: (giving him a look) No, I don't--honey suckle.

JACK: (getting the hint that he's going too far with this) Yes. Oh look, we were in such a hurry that we almost forgot to pay! (slaps his forehead) Where is my head these days? (throws money onto the table, then grabs JENNIFER'S hand), Come on-

BILLIE: Uh, wait...

JACK: (reluctantly) Yes?

BILLIE: You two are here to cover the coronation, I take it?

JENNIFER: Yes. The Spectator's been running a series on the princess for a few weeks now.

BILLIE: I know. My mother told me they've been a hit.

JACK: I'll be sure to thank Kate for the idea next time I see her. (tugs on JENNIFER'S hand)

BILLIE: Are, um... Bo and Hope going to be there too?

JENNIFER: Yeah... Yeah, they will.

BILLIE turns sad. JENNIFER feels badly for her.

BILLIE: (quietly) Well, you be sure to give them my love, okay?

JENNIFER: Of course. They'll be happy to hear from you.

BILLIE: (clears throat) I guess I should get going. I'll be late for work. It was nice seeing you again.

JENNIFER: It was nice seeing you again too.

JACK: Yes, likewise.

BILLIE: Yeah, I guess it was nice seeing you again too, Jack.

JACK gives her a look.

BILLIE: Have fun at the coronation tonight.

JACK: (annoyed) Oh, we will. (as she's walking away) Don't you worry your pretty little head over it!

JENNIFER: (watching her walk away) Gosh, I feel so bad for her.

JACK: Why?

JENNIFER: Come on, Jack, it can't be easy knowing your ex-fiancé's in town with his wife. She's got no one.

JACK: I'll tell you what she's got--bad timing. Thanks to her, we've lost Kate.

JENNIFER: (rolls eyes) Forget about that, Jack, let's just- (something occurs to her) I've got an even better idea!

JACK: What?

JENNIFER: (takes his hand) Come on, Jack!

OUT on the two.

SCENE 6

INT. BILLIE'S TOWNHOUSE - LATER

Noise is coming from the door. Someone is jiggling with the lock. Finally, the door opens and JACK and JENNIFER walk through.

JENNIFER: (triumphantly) It still works!

JACK: (putting away his credit card) Yes, it's quite a timeless method, I would say. (looks around) All right, I guess we're safe--I don't hear any alarms blaring.

JENNIFER is already ahead of him, poking around. She is excited at having succeeded, and is remembering the old times when she and JACK used to do this. JACK reluctantly follows her.

JACK: So... care to tell me what we're looking for, exactly?

JENNIFER: (going through BILLIE'S desk) I don't really know yet, but I'm sure we'll know it when we see it.

JACK: (watching her) I see. Yes, that just crystallizes everything for me, then. (beat) Is it an animal, vegetable, or mineral?

JENNIFER: (rolling eyes) Jack...

JACK: Bigger than a breadbox? Smaller than a-

JENNIFER: Jack! Would you please be serious?

JACK: Does this not look like the face of a man who's dead serious?

JENNIFER: (gives him a look) Would you please just help me look?

JACK: (sighs) Yes, Nancy Drew. Perhaps I should try to guess which room Kate is staying in and look in there?

JENNIFER: That's a great idea! I'll call you if I- (something on the desk catches her eye)

JACK: (hears her stop and turns around) What is it? You found something?

JENNIFER: I'm not sure. (takes a pad of paper from the desk and holds it up for JACK to see) I might have.

JACK takes the pad of paper from her.

JENNIFER: It's a name.

JACK: I see that.

JENNIFER: And a phone number.

JACK: Yes, I see that too. (looks up at her) And...

JENNIFER: Well, does it look like Kate's handwriting?

JACK: (looks at it again) Yes, I suppose it does. I got enough editorial comments from her on my articles to know what her handwriting looks like.

JENNIFER: So this could be something!

JACK: I hate to quell your enthusiasm, but this is merely a name, Jennifer. We don't even know who this person is.

JENNIFER: I know that, Jack. But we could give it to Bo and Hope and they could follow up on it.

JACK: You're not serious.

JENNIFER: Why not?

JACK: Jennifer, that is a stretch at best.

JENNIFER: This from the man who suggested tailing Kate in the first place.

JACK: Look, I just think that-

They both freeze as they hear a sound coming from the door.

JENNIFER: Oh my gosh, what do we-

Before JENNIFER can finish her sentence, JACK grabs her and they hide in the hall closet. The door opens and KATE walks in. JACK and JENNIFER listen for any sounds.

KATE: Where did I leave that number...

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER IN THE CLOSET

JENNIFER looks at JACK.

CUT TO: KATE IN THE LIVING ROOM

KATE: Now I remember--I left it on the desk!

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER

JACK gives JENNIFER a questioning look, knowing she still has the piece of paper. JENNIFER gestures to her blouse. JACK mouths, You didn't! JENNIFER gives him an embarrassed smile and shrugs.

CUT TO: KATE

KATE: It's not here... Where the hell is it?

OUT on JACK and JENNIFER as they hear KATE realize that it's gone.

EPISODE 44

SCENE 1

INT. BILLIE'S TOWNHOUSE - DAY (SAME DAY AS EPISODE 43)

JACK and JENNIFER have broken into BILLIE'S townhouse and were snooping around, when KATE returned, forcing JACK and JENNIFER to hide in the hall closet.

JENNIFER: (whispering) What do we do?

JACK: Shh!! (mouthing the words) She'll hear us.

JENNIFER: Jack-

JACK covers her mouth so she can't talk, then strains to listen for any sounds outside of the closet.

CUT TO: KATE IN THE LIVING ROOM

KATE: (rummaging through the desk) I know I wrote it here... Where could it be?

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER IN THE CLOSET

JACK slowly takes his hand away from JENNIFER'S mouth. JENNIFER looks at him with wide eyes, wondering what they should do next. They hear KATE talking to herself.

JENNIFER: (mouthing the words) What's she doing?

JACK: (can't quite read her lips, mouths back) What?

JENNIFER mouths the words again. JACK still can't read her lips.

JENNIFER: (whispering so JACK will hear) What's she doing-

JACK: Shh!!!

He covers her mouth once again. JENNIFER is now annoyed, and bites his hand. JACK lets out a muted yelp.

JENNIFER: (mouthing the words) Stop doing that!

CUT TO: KATE

KATE: (on the phone) Billie Reed, please. Thank you.

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER

JENNIFER: What's she doing now?

JACK: (listening intently) I think she's... I think she's calling someone.

CUT TO: KATE

KATE: Billie? Hi, it's me. Listen, this is going to sound silly, but I wrote down a phone number this morning on a pad of paper you had on your desk.... Yes, the one with your monogram... Anyway, I could have sworn I just left it here on your desk, but now I can't find it...

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER

JACK turns to JENNIFER and arches an eyebrow. JENNIFER nods in comprehension.

CUT TO: KATE

KATE: I realized just now that I had forgotten to take the number with me, that's why I came back... No, I really need to speak with him today. It's urgent...

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER

JACK and JENNIFER: (simultaneously) Urgent!

CUT TO: KATE

KATE: No, no, it's okay, honey... Maybe I did stick it in my purse. I'll keep looking for it. I just wish I could find it... All right, I'll see you later. (hangs up the phone, then lets out a deep breath) Philip's future depends on this.

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER

JACK and JENNIFER react to KATE'S statement about Philip. They both press their ears up to the door and hear KATE rustling with some papers, then they hear the door open and slam shut. After a few minutes, they decide the coast is clear and come out of the closet.

JENNIFER: (sighing) That was close.

JACK: Too close.

He starts to reach into JENNIFER'S blouse.

JENNIFER: (realizing what's happening) Jack, what are you doing?!

JACK: I'm trying to get that piece of paper out, what do you think I'm doing?

JENNIFER: (shrugging his arm off) Let me do that, okay?

JACK: Fine. (grins) But it's not like that was unfamiliar territory to me-

JENNIFER: (blushing) Jack! Come on, be serious... (fishes the piece of paper out of her bra and hands it over to him) There.

JACK: Thank you.

JENNIFER: Now do you believe me that this may be something important?

JACK: Well, it's certainly not nothing from the sound of it. If this person is vital to her son's future, then...

JENNIFER: Are you thinking what I'm thinking?

JACK and JENNIFER: (simultaneously) Bo and Hope need to see this.

OUT on the two.

SCENE 2

INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S HOTEL ROOM - LATER

JACK and JENNIFER have called BO and HOPE over to their hotel room to show them what they've found at BILLIE'S.

BO: You two did what?

JENNIFER: We broke in-

BO: I can't believe this, do you know how much trouble you guys could have caused?

HOPE: What if you had gotten caught, Jen? What if Billie had had some kind of an alarm system in place, huh?

JACK: (not wanting a lecture) Yes, yes, we know--we might have been dragged off by the French police. We decided to take the risk.

HOPE: (to JENNIFER) How could you let him talk you into this?

JENNIFER: (looks at JACK) Actually... it was sort of my idea.

JACK: Not sort of. It was your idea. Through and through.

JENNIFER gives him a look.

JACK: (without missing a beat) And it was a good one, at that.

HOPE: No, it wasn't.

JACK: Look, we were just trying to help-

BO: You were trying to play amateur detectives, that's what you were doing. Jack, this is not a Hardy Boys adventure, all right? If Kate really is plotting something against Victor, do you really think she would hesitate in doing something to you if she found out you knew?

JACK starts to say something, but HOPE interrupts.

HOPE: You two have a little girl, remember? Do you want to be playing around with fire?

JACK and JENNIFER look at each other.

JENNIFER: Hope, we're sorry. We just... we just go carried away, I guess. We got caught up in the rush of doing this kind of thing again. And Jack's right, we really were only trying to help. If we thought for one second that we would mess things up, we wouldn't have-

HOPE: (sighing) It's okay. Look, we don't mean to come down on you so hard, it's just that this whole thing has been frustrating. Victor still refuses our help, and all we can do is watch him from a distance and make sure nothing is out of the ordinary.

JENNIFER: Then maybe this number will be the lead you need.

HOPE looks at BO. BO finally lets out a deep breath.

BO: All right, we'll check this out. But can I get a reassurance out of you two that you are done playing Columbo as long as we're here in Paris?

JENNIFER: Yes, yes, absolutely.

BO looks at JACK, who hasn't said anything. JENNIFER nudges him.

JACK: Hmm? Oh, right, right. (holds up his hand) Scout's honor.

BO: (not quite sure he believes them) We'll see you two tonight at the ball.

JACK: (with a mock salute) Aye, aye, cap'n.

BO: Detective.

JACK: Detective.

HOPE: (as she and BO are leaving) Bye... See you guys later...

JENNIFER: Bye... (closes the door, then lets out a sigh and leans against it) Do you think we did the right thing?

JACK: Well, even if it wasn't the right thing--it sure was fun, wasn't it?

JENNIFER breaks into a smile.

JACK: (grins) I take that as a yes?

JENNIFER: All right, yes, I admit it. It was fun.

JACK: I knew it! You do miss the pursuit of the elusive lead.

JENNIFER: Yes, and that's what worries me.

JACK: Why?

JENNIFER: Because, Jack... (sighs) Because Hope was right. We've got Abby to think about now, and we can't be putting ourselves in dangerous situations like this.

JACK: I'm not saying we should knowingly walk onto a landmine, Jennifer. Of course we have to worry about Abigail. I would never deliberately put us in the line of fire. (beat) But you have to admit, this is what we were born to do. I mean, it's one thing to sit behind a desk all day and publish a newspaper, but it's quite another to be the one actually getting the story.

JENNIFER: (wistfully) Yeah, you're right.

JACK: (grinning) I know I'm right.

JENNIFER: So what are you saying, you want to give up being a publisher and go back to reporting full-time?

JACK: No, I... I want us to remain as publishers, but... I do want to get back to writing again. And I don't mean writing fluff pieces like this coronation--I mean real writing. The kind that won us Ferraros. The kind that got us that book deal with Time Life. Real reporting.

JENNIFER: (smiles) You really do love this, don't you?

JACK: (nodding) All my life, the Senator told me I'd never amount to anything. But I proved him wrong with my writing, didn't I? (softly) With you by my side, I proved him wrong.

JENNIFER: Yeah... We proved him wrong.

She gives him a hug.

OUT on the two.

SCENE 3

INT. THE GRAND BALLROOM - NIGHT

KARL, LAWRENCE'S henchman, is disguised as one of the guests at the ball. He has a tiny earpiece hidden in his ear and a small microphone near his collar. He is talking to the assassin to make sure everything is in place.

KARL: Are you in position?

ASSASSIN: Yes, I am.

KARL: Did anyone see you come in?

ASSASSIN: Everything was clear, don't worry. I made sure nobody saw me. I'm perfectly hidden right now.

KARL: Good. You can not drop the ball on this, you understand? Mr. Alamain has everything riding on this.

ASSASSIN: Nothing will go wrong. I'll stake my life on it.

KARL: You've got that right. If even one small thing does not go as planned, Mr. Alamain and Ms. Manning will have both our heads, do I make myself clear?

ASSASSIN: Crystal clear.

CUT TO: JACK and JENNIFER

JACK and JENNIFER enter the GRAND BALLROOM. JACK is dressed in a black tuxedo with tails, and JENNIFER is wearing an off-the-shoulder rust-colored gown.

JENNIFER: (looking at all the guests) They weren't kidding about everyone being dressed to the nines, were they?

JACK: (distracted) Mm hmm...

JENNIFER: Jack...

JACK does not answer.

JENNIFER: (nudging him) Jack!

JACK: What?

JENNIFER: What's wrong?

JACK: Nothing, I was just... (scanning the crowd) looking for Bo and Hope.

JENNIFER: I tried calling their room earlier, but I didn't get an answer. Do you think they found out who that person was that Kate was trying to get a hold of? Maybe they arrested him-

JACK: Hold on, there. Let's not jump to ten thousand conclusions at once.

JENNIFER: You're right, you're right. I guess I'm just a little antsy, that's all.

JACK: (watching VICTOR and KATE) Well, the happy couple seems to be putting on quite an act over there.

JENNIFER: I doubt they're going to make a scene in public like that, Jack. (sees FRANKIE) Oh, there's Frankie, let's go say hi.

JACK: (gives her a look) Must we?

JENNIFER: Promise me you'll be nice.

JACK: When am I not nice to your ex-fiance?

JENNIFER rolls her eyes.

JACK: What? Was it something I said?

JENNIFER: Come on, Jack, it's a big night for him. He's going to get lots of exposure tonight when they unveil Greta's official portrait before the ceremony.

JACK: (mock excitement) Well golly, perhaps we should secure an exclusive with the elusive artist before he cloisters himself away from his admiring public!

JENNIFER: (shakes her head) What am I going to do with you...

FRANKIE: Hey guys.

JENNIFER: Hi, Frankie.

JACK: Francoise.

JENNIFER: Have you, uh... seen your brother anywhere around, by any chance?

FRANKIE: No, not since this morning, why?

JENNIFER: (looks at JACK, then back at FRANKIE) Uh... well I just figured wherever he was, Hope would be there with him. I just needed to touch base with her about something and I haven't seen her since this afternoon.

FRANKIE: Oh, they just walked in.

JACK and JENNIFER turn around and see BO and HOPE enter the ballroom.

FRANKIE: Listen, I'll talk to you guys later, all right? Looks like I'm being summoned.

JENNIFER: (laughs) Okay... We'll see you later. (to JACK) Well, this is it.

BO and HOPE come over to JACK and JENNIFER.

JACK: So... what's the verdict?

OUT on BO and HOPE.

SCENE 4

IN PROGRESS

JACK and JENNIFER want to know what BO and HOPE have found out about the mysterious name KATE wrote down.

JACK: Might we be able to surmise from the looks on both your faces that this is not good?

JENNIFER: Did you find out who it was?

BO: Yeah, we did. And it's nothing. A false alarm.

JENNIFER: (looks at JACK) What? What do you mean a false alarm?

JACK: Kate certainly made it seem like this person was very important.

HOPE: He is, Jack. He's the headmaster at an exclusive prep school here in Paris.

JACK: A headmaster...

BO: That's right. Not a cold-blooded assassin, but a harmless headmaster at a prep school that Kate wants to enroll Philip in eventually.

JACK: Isn't he a little young?

BO: Apparently this prep school has a waiting list of at least five years. Look, the point is, it looks like all of this has all may have been a gigantic misunderstanding from the beginning. We can't find any evidence that Kate plotted to have Victor killed.

JENNIFER: But what about that call that Vern got?

BO: Salem PD's been unable to trace that call, Jen. There isn't any shred of credible evidence.

JACK: I don't know, this just... doesn't feel right...

HOPE: I'm sorry, Jack, Jen. But try not to let your imaginations run away with you, all right? Let's just all try to have fun tonight. Come on, we're in Paris, we're at this glamorous ball, surrounded by all kinds of European royalty and dignitaries--we're on vacation here, so let's enjoy it.

JACK: Well, I'm afraid not all of us are on vacation.

BO: (grins) That's too bad, Jack. But we happen to be. (to HOPE) Care for a dance, Fancy Face?

HOPE: I'd love it, Brady.

BO: See you two later... (goes off with HOPE on the dance floor)

JENNIFER: Boy, do I feel silly.

JACK: Why?

JENNIFER: Would you like me to list out the reasons, Jack? Could it be because we believed that phone call that Vern got? Or that we actually tried to follow Kate around? Or that we actually broke into Billie's house to find something on Kate? No, no, I think what takes the cake is thinking that the headmaster of some prep school was the man Kate hired to murder her husband.

JACK: All right, so we were wrong on some things-

JENNIFER: Some things? Try everything, Jack.

JACK: Look, I still think not everything is as kosher as it seems.

JENNIFER: Jack, you heard Bo and Hope-

JACK: Yes, I know. I heard them loud and clear. But I'm telling you, there is something not right here.

He realizes JENNIFER is no longer listening to him.

JACK: Jennifer?

JENNIFER thinks she's seen a familiar face among the crowd: CARLY MANNING.

OUT on JENNIFER'S surprise and confusion.

EPISODE 45

SCENE 1

INT. THE GRAND BALLROOM - NIGHT (SAME DAY AS EPISODE 45)

JENNIFER thinks she has just seen a ghost from her past: CARLY MANNING. JACK wonders what has her so distracted.

JACK: Jennifer?

The person quickly disappears into the crowd. JENNIFER walks past JACK to try to find the woman, but she can no longer see her. JACK notices that JENNIFER seems to be looking for someone.

JACK: (touching JENNIFER'S arm) Jennifer?

JENNIFER still doesn't respond.

JACK: You know, I'd even settle for your divided attention right at this rate.

JENNIFER: Hmm?

She realizes JACK was talking to her, and turns around to face him.

JENNIFER: (embarrassed) Oh my gosh, I'm sorry--you were saying something...

JACK: (dryly) Yes. Should I be offended that I can't seem to be able to hold your attention for more than a few minutes every time we're at some sort of social event? (looks around) Let's see... Well, your brother's not here with us in Paris, so it can't be that you're entranced with watching him dance with Kayla or some other woman you're trying to fix him up with-

JENNIFER hits him on the arm.

JACK: All right, all right, it was a joke...

JENNIFER: Not a very funny one.

JACK: Ouch. The lady bears her claws.

JENNIFER: I'm sorry. I was just-

JACK: Distracted, yes, I believe we established that fact. (beat) So...

JENNIFER: So...

JACK: Care to tell me what I was competing with?

JENNIFER: What do you mean?

JACK: I mean, something was clearly holding your attention captive. What's going on?

OUT on JENNIFER as she looks at the crowd once again.

SCENE 2

IN PROGRESS

JACK wants to know what JENNIFER saw. JENNIFER is still scanning the crowd to see if she really did see CARLY, but can not seem to find the person anymore.

JENNIFER: (thinking she must be mistaken) You know what, it's... it's silly...

JACK: Try me.

JENNIFER: (laughs) I just thought I saw someone I knew, that's all.

JACK: (gives her a look) Jennifer, half of Salem's population seems to be in this room. The odds of you seeing someone you know are quite high.

JENNIFER: I didn't mean that, Jack, I meant... someone I knew from a long time ago.

JACK: I see. And who would that be?

JENNIFER: (knowing how much he dislikes CARLY; hesitates) Oh, um... you know, someone from my boarding school days.

JACK: Oh. Interesting. (grins) Perhaps I can get some more dirt on your adolescence-

JENNIFER: Jack!

JACK: Let's go say hello, shall we? Where is she?

JENNIFER: (feeling embarrassed over thinking she saw CARLY) I don't even know if I saw what I saw... I mean, really, what are the chances?

JACK: Jennifer, you went to boarding school in Switzerland, which is practically a stone's throw away. I'd say there's a good chance.

JENNIFER: You know what, Jack, I don't even see her anymore. This room is getting pretty crowded, and besides, I was probably just seeing things... (takes JACK'S hand and pulls him onto the dance floor) Come on, Mr. Deveraux, what do you say we show 'em how it's done?

JACK: (slyly) I presume you mean on the dance floor.

JENNIFER: (smiles) Well, some things should remain private, don't you agree?

JACK: Indeed.

He takes her in his arms and they begin to dance.

JENNIFER: (noticing that he's not looking at her) We seem to have switched roles.

JACK: (distracted) What?

JENNIFER: (takes his chin and makes him face her) I mean, for someone who was giving me such a hard time a few minutes ago about not paying enough attention to him, you seem to have no problem doing the same thing just now.

JACK: (gesturing towards VICTOR and KATE, who outside the entrance to the grand ballroom, and look as if they are in a heated discussion) I'm sorry, but apparently the entertainment has begun.

JENNIFER: What? What do you mean? (turns around to look at what JACK is watching) Oh my gosh...

JACK: My sentiments exactly. (starts to lead them in the direction of VICTOR and KATE)

JENNIFER: Jack, what are you doing?

JACK: What do you think?

JENNIFER: They're going to see us!

JACK: Jennifer, look at them! We could have fireworks go off in here and they still wouldn't turn their heads.

JENNIFER: Don't you think it's going to be kind of obvious what we're doing if we end up from one side of the dance floor to the other?

JACK: (dryly) We're dancing the waltz--people are supposed to glide across the floor.

JENNIFER: (protesting) Jack-

JACK: Shh!!

JENNIFER: (annoyed) Don't shh me-

JACK: (whispering) I can hear their voices!

They exchange knowing looks.

JACK: Maybe now we can finally get to the bottom of things...

OUT on JACK and JENNIFER as they listen to VICTOR and KATE argue.

SCENE 3

IN PROGRESS

JACK and JENNIFER have spotted VICTOR and KATE in a heated argument.

JENNIFER: (whispering) Oh my gosh, they sound really upset, Jack...

JACK: He's certainly not whispering sweet nothing in her ear.

CUT TO: VICTOR AND KATE

KATE: I'm not one of your little toy soldiers, Victor. You can't tell me what to do-

VICTOR: The hell I can't! I'll be damned if I'm going to let you take my son away from me and then send him to rot in some boarding school before he's even old enough to drive!

KATE: Just try and stop me... I guarantee you will be sorry if you do.

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER

JACK and JENNIFER react to KATE'S statement.

CUT TO VICTOR AND KATE

VICTOR: Is that a threat?

KATE: (smiles coolly) You decide, Victor. After all, threats are your forte, aren't they, darling? (adjusts his tuxedo jacket) But you just better watch your back. You never know what can happen when a mother is in danger of losing her child.

She starts to walk away. JACK and JENNIFER quickly move away from the door so she does not see them when she walks into the ball room.

JENNIFER: All right, you can say it. Say I told you so.

JACK: (watching KATE) For once, I'm not in the mood to gloat, believe it or not. (beat) But I have a feeling we need to keep an eye on that one.

OUT on JACK as he watches KATE shoot daggers across the room at VICTOR.

SCENE 4

INT. LADIES LOUNGE - LATER

JENNIFER has gone to the rest room to touch up her makeup. She is putting her lipstick back in her evening bag and turns to leave, when she bumps into someone.

JENNIFER: Oh, I'm so sorry-

She sees that the woman is CARLY.

JENNIFER: (incredulous) Carly...

CARLY is shocked that JENNIFER has seen her, and immediately runs away.

JENNIFER: (goes after her) Wait a minute! Carly, wait!! Carly!

CARLY slips out of the rest room, but before JENNIFER follow her, HOPE comes into the bathroom.

HOPE: Hey! (sees JENNIFER looks upset) Is something wrong?

JENNIFER: Hope... No, I... everything's fine...

HOPE: Are you sure? You look like you just saw a ghost.

JENNIFER: (to herself) You could say that...

HOPE: What was that?

JENNIFER: Uh... nothing... Did you, uh, did you happen to see a woman with dark hair walk past you? She was wearing this off-the-shoulder red gown, and had her hair up in a twist-

HOPE: No, I didn't notice anyone... Why, what's going on, Jen?

JENNIFER: (shaking her head) Oh, well, uh, she dropped her lipstick, and I just wanted to return it to her.

HOPE: I'm sure she'll come back here for it. (notices JENNIFER seems preoccupied) Jen?

JENNIFER: Hmm?

HOPE: Are you sure you're all right?

JENNIFER: Yeah, I'm fine, I'm fine. You know what, I'll see you out there, okay? Jack's probably wondering what took me so long.

HOPE: (as JENNIFER runs out) Wait, Jen-

JENNIFER: (standing outside the rest room door) Oh, Carly... What is going on with you...

OUT on JENNIFER'S concern.

SCENE 5

INT. THE GRAND BALLROOM - LATER

JENNIFER tries to find JACK to tell him about her mysterious encounter with CARLY.

JACK: (encircling her waist from behind) There you are. I was getting worried about you. (kisses her cheek)

JENNIFER: (nervous laugh) Oh, come on, it's not like I was gone for that long.

JACK: They just started the coronation ceremony, you're right on time-

JENNIFER: (as JACK pulls her into the crowd) Jack, I need to tell you something...

JACK can not hear, as GRETA is being presented as the new PRINCESS VON AMBURG.

JENNIFER: Jack, I-

JACK: This is it, you ready?

JENNIFER: Jack...

Suddenly shots ring out. Screams come from the crowd, and JACK instinctively pushes JENNIFER to the ground and covers her.

JACK: (shouting above the screaming) Jennifer! Are you all right? Are you hurt?

JENNIFER: (dazed, holding on to JACK) I'm okay... Oh my God, what's going on?

JACK scans the room for any sign of VICTOR.

PERSON: Oh no! The princess!

JENNIFER: Oh my God, Jack! It's Greta! She's been hit!

JACK: What?!

CUT TO: GRETA AND HER ENTOURAGE

GRETA'S entourage swarms around her as she lies on the ground, bleeding. The crowd continues to panic, though the shots have stopped.

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER

JACK helps JENNIFER sit up.

JENNIFER: What's going on, is she hurt badly?

JACK: (above the screaming) I don't know... I can't tell...

JENNIFER holds onto JACK.

JACK: (whispering) I'm right here... I'm right here, Jennifer, I'm not going anywhere... It's going to be all right... (continues to scan the room for VICTOR, then spots BO bending over someone) Oh no...

JENNIFER: What?

JACK can not answer her.

JENNIFER: Jack, what is it?

JACK: It's Victor... (looks at JENNIFER) I think he got shot.

OUT on JACK and JENNIFER trying to make sense of the madness.

SCENE 6

INT. A HOSPITAL WAITING ROOM - LATER

JACK and JENNIFER have joined BO and HOPE as VICTOR was rushed to the nearby hospital. They are waiting for news about him.

BO: Damn it, what is taking so long?

HOPE: (stroking his back) Bo, I'm sure they're get back to us soon. They're doing everything they can...

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER

JACK and JENNIFER are watching BO and HOPE as they wait by the front desk. JENNIFER has her head on JACK'S shoulder.

JACK: (solemnly) It's ironic...

JENNIFER: (lifting her head to look at him) What?

JACK: Just... I spent all those years hating him, and now here I am, waiting for good news to know that he made it.

JENNIFER: (smiles at him, lifts his chin up to look at her) You're a good man, you know that, Jack Deveraux?

JACK: (grins) Try not to let that get around.

JENNIFER smiles.

A doctor comes out to talk to BO and HOPE.

DOCTOR: Monsieur Brady?

BO: Doctor... Is there any word on my father?

The doctor hesitates.

BO: (knowing what it must mean) What is it, doctor?

JACK and JENNIFER get up and join BO and HOPE.

DOCTOR: I'm sorry, Monsieur Brady...

HOPE: Oh, God...

DOCTOR: We did everything we could, but he had lost too much blood...

HOPE reaches over and puts her arms around BO.

BO: What are you saying?

DOCTOR: Your father... passed away on the operating table. I'm so sorry for your loss.

BO looks at him incredulously. HOPE is holding on to BO, who knows he is in shock. JACK and JENNIFER watch helplessly.

JENNIFER: (reaching out to BO) Oh, Bo... I'm so sorry...

JACK: (quietly, to JENNIFER) I... I need to call Adrienne and Justin...

JENNIFER: Do you want me to come with you?

JACK shakes his head.

JENNIFER: (squeezes his hand) I'll be here with them.

JACK: I'll be right back. (kisses her forehead)

OUT on JENNIFER as she watches JACK walk away, then looks on at BO and HOPE.

SCENE 7

INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S HOTEL ROOM - LATER

JACK and JENNIFER have returned from the hospital, drained from the ordeal.

JENNIFER: (softly) You all right?

JACK: (nods) Me? Yeah, I'm... I'm fine... Everyone I love is safe and sound. (strokes her hair, then takes her in his arms) Safe and sound.

JENNIFER: It's going to be okay...

JACK: I hope so.

The phone rings.

JENNIFER: (breaking from the embrace) I'll get that. (picks up the phone) Hello?

CUT TO: ABBY ON THE OTHER LINE

ABBY: Mommy?

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER

JENNIFER: Abby! Hi, baby...

JACK comes over to JENNIFER'S side. JENNIFER smiles at him.

JENNIFER: (to JACK) It's Abby. (to ABBY) Baby, what are you still doing up, isn't it past your bedtime?

CUT TO: ABBY

ABBY: I wanted to talk to you and Daddy first, to say good night...

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER

JENNIFER: (smiling) I'm so glad you called. You don't know how much I needed to hear that sweet voice of yours. Daddy wants to talk to you too, okay? Hold on... (hands the phone over to JACK)

JACK: Hey, kiddo.

CUT TO: ABBY

ABBY: Daddy! Are you guys having fun? Is it really romantic?

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER

JACK: (laughs softly) It's been an adventure. But Mommy and I miss you very much.

CUT TO: ABBY

ABBY: I miss you too. I can't wait till you guys get back. And you don't even have to bring me back anything!

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER

JACK: All right, kiddo, time for bed. We'll talk to you tomorrow.

JENNIFER: (into the phone) Good night, baby, we love you.

CUT TO: ABBY

ABBY: I love you too! G'night!

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER

JENNIFER: That is one amazing little girl we have.

JACK: (taking her in his arms) That she is...

OUT on the two.

SCENE 8

INT. JACK AND JENNIFER'S HOTEL ROOM - LATER

MONTAGE - EDWIN MCCAIN'S "PRAYER TO SAINT PETER" IS PLAYING IN THE BACKGROUND

Let them in, Peter
For they are very tired
Give them couches where the angels sleep
And light those fires
Let them wake whole again
To brand new dawns
Fired by the sun
Not war-times bloody guns
May their peace be deep
Remember where the broken bodies lie
God knows how young they were
To have to die

JACK watches JENNIFER as she sleeps.

Give them things they like
Let them make some noise
Give dance hall bands to golden harps
To these our boys
Let them love Peter
For they've had no time

CUT TO: BO AND HOPE AT THE HOSPITAL

BO and HOPE are sitting in the waiting room. BO has his head in his hands, and HOPE has her arms around him.

They should have bird songs and trees
And hills to climb
The taste of summer
And a ripened pear
And girls as sweet as meadow wind
And flowing hair

CUT TO: JACK AND JENNIFER

JACK lightly strokes JENNIFER'S hair, then closes his eyes and kisses the top of her head.

Let them in, Peter
For they are very tired
Give them couches where the angels sleep
And light those fires
Let them wake whole again
To brand new dawns
Fired by the sun
Not war-times bloody guns
May their peace be deep
Remember where the broken bodies lie
God knows how young they were
To have to die

JENNIFER turns over to face JACK, and she snuggles up to him. JACK wraps his arms around her and tries to go to sleep.

And tell them how they are missed
But not to fear
It's gonna be all right
With us down here

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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