Untitled

by Denise

Chapters 1 - 3

Episode One

SCENE ONE

INT. - BALLROOM - PARIS - NIGHT

The ballroom is beautifully decorated for GRETA'S coronation. Dozens of Salem residents are mingling amongst the wealthy of Europe - including many members of Europe's finest royal families.

JENNIFER: Believe me Shawn, I know exactly what your mother is up to. And while I appreciate the gesture, I'm not looking for someone to replace Jack. (she looks around again) I will admit this ballroom is beautiful and Paris is the city for lovers, but I think I'll leave all of that to your parents (BEAT) and perhaps yourself and a certain young lady who is going to be here tonight.

SHAWN grins sheepishly.

BO: Jen, we know you're still upset about you and Jack calling it quits, but it doesn't mean you can't enjoy all of this.

JENNIFER: I'm not upset about Jack and me. What's done is done where that is concerned.

HOPE: Jen, you were in love with Jack for a long time. It would be understandable if you were to shy away from another relationship --

SHAWN: (clearing his throat) You know, I believe mom mentioned something about dancing and enjoying yourself tonight. So can I twist your arm to dance with me Jen?

JENNIFER: (smiling in gratitude) Do you really want to dance with an old lady like me Shawn?

SHAWN: (taking her hand to lead her to the dance floor) I can't think of another woman around here more beautiful than you (BEAT) except my mother.

HOPE: (laughing) He only says that because Belle isn't here yet.

JENNIFER: I think that's our cue Shawn. (laughs) Let's go.

The cousins walk out to the dance floor to enjoy the festivities while BO and HOPE look on, smiling and whispering to each other.

SHAWN: I'm real sorry about my mom and dad. They're just worried about you.

JENNIFER: I know that and I can understand it. But there's really nothing for them to worry about.

SHAWN: (looking at her skeptically) Jen, it doesn't take a brain surgeon to figure out you miss Jack.

JENNIFER: (sighing) It isn't just that. I mean, of course I miss him and Abby misses him, but - nevermind.

SHAWN: (reassuringly, sensing she needs to tell someone her secret) You don't have to stop. I won't tell mom anything Jen.

JENNIFER nods her head and glances around the room before leading SHAWN off to talk.

JENNIFER: It's (BEAT) It's just that I'm worried about him. When Abby and I left Africa, he was in the middle of something dangerous and he never contacted me like he was supposed to and I couldn't find anyone who knew where he was.

SHAWN: (the truth finally hitting him) You and Jack, you're not exactly finished, are you Jen?

JENNIFER bites her lip nervously. We see an arm come into the picture and slip around JENNIFER'S waist. Then we see a smile cross SHAWN'S face and then we pan up to see JACK smiling at SHAWN.

JACK: Oh come now Shawn Douglas, you know as well as anyone that Miss Horton and I could never be through entirely.

JACK flashes JENNIFER a brilliant smile and out on JENNIFER'S shock at his appearance.

***

SCENE TWO -- IN PROGRESS

SHAWN: (amused by JACK'S sudden appearance at the coronation and JENNIFER'S shock over it) Good to see you Jack.

JACK: (shaking hands) You too Shawn, no longer "D" as I understand it. (looks closely at the young man) It would appear your name isn't the only thing that has changed since I last saw you. You've gone and grown up while we were away, hasn't he Jennifer?

Both men turn to look at JENNIFER. Her face is a mixture of emotions: joy, relief, anger, love, etc. She just nods in response to JACK, her eyes never wavering from his face.

JENNIFER still says nothing.

JACK: Tell me something Shawn because the lovely woman on my arm isn't going to be doing that anytime soon, is there something in the Salem water that is making all of you look so old?

SHAWN: (laughing and turning to look at JACK) No Jack, we're just growing up. It looks worse when you've been away for some time.

JACK: So then I'm (gulps) getting older too? (BEAT) Oh the injustice of it all.

SHAWN: Nah Jack, you look better than ever. 'Course you're as weird as ever too, but what else would we expect.

JACK: Hehehe, thanks. (turns serious as he focuses on JENNIFER) Do you think we should get her some water or perhaps a glass of champagne?

SHAWN: (glancing at JENNIFER) She looks a little flushed, Jack. Maybe she needs to sit for a bit.

JENNIFER: (bewildered) Air. I just need air.

JACK: She speaks. In no time at all she'll be arguing away with me and we'll have our little Jennifer Rose back. Of course by then we'll be wishing we had this one back, but you know how it is Shawn, grass greener and that whole bit. Excuse us, while I guide the lovely lady out (JENNIFER walks away from them) to a balcony for air. Take care. (rushes off behind her) Jennifer! Jennifer wait up!

BO and HOPE walk up to join SHAWN.

BO: (to SHAWN) Was that who I thought it was?

SHAWN: (smiling and facing his parents) If you think you just saw Jack Deveraux then you'd be right.

HOPE: (shocked but excited) Jack? Here? (turning in the direction JACK and JENNIFER went) From the looks of things they have a great deal to discuss.

BO: Don't they always?

HOPE: True (BEAT) You don't - you don't think they might actually be able to reconcile, do you?

BO: (hesitant) Ah (BEAT) I don't know Fancy Face -

SHAWN: Pop, stranger things have happened. My best guess (BEAT) Jack and Jen won't ever be over.

OUT on the three of them smiling.

***

SCENE THREE

EXT. - BALCONY - PARIS - NIGHT

JENNIFER is leaning on the railing, looking away from the building over the gardens. JACK rushes out behind her. When he sees her out there he pulls up short and carefully closes the door. He turns and looks at her with a great deal of love in his eyes

JACK: Jennifer -

JENNIFER: (shaking her head) Don't - don't say anything.

JACK: (moving closer and placing a hand on her shoulder) Jenni -

JENNIFER: (turns to face him) Do you know how worried I've been about you?

JACK: (on the defensive) So worried you told your family that I abandoned you and the child.

JENNIFER: Technically you did.

JACK: You were supposed to wait in Ireland.

JENNIFER: (beginning to cry) I hadn't heard from you in months Jack. Colin disappeared too and suddenly Bo shows up. I was scared and missed my family - you and everyone else in Salem.

JACK: You could have put them or the child or (BEAT) or yourself in danger behaving so carelessly.

JENNIFER: (sobbing) I didn't know what else to do. How else was I supposed to explain Abby and me in Ireland without you? (BEAT) So I made up a story and I had to follow through with it.

JACK: (throwing up his hands in frustration) So, now your family hates me and thinks I'm a deadbeat?

JENNIFER is still crying, although she is calming down somewhat. She is still shaking and JACK notices this. He takes her hands and holds them in his.

JACK: (CONT.) I'm - I'm sorry, Jennifer. This isn't exactly how I intended for all of this to happen, you know that right?

JENNIFER nods.

JACK: (CONT.) But (BEAT) but maybe - maybe it's all for the best.

JENNIFER: Jack, what are you saying?

JACK: This story, it could be good. (JACK lets go of her hand and turns to lean against the railing as he contemplates) In fact, I think it's exactly what we need.

OUT on JENNIFER'S hurt

***

SCENE FOUR - IN PROGRESS

JENNIFER: Jack (tears falling again - she grabs his arm) Don't you say that. We've been down that road before and I won't do it again - I won't.

JACK: (looking at her hand on his arm and then looking up at her. He smiles at her determination) Miss Horton - Jennifer - I could be cruel and allow you to continue under your mistaken assumption that I meant we should make your story a reality. (leans down and whispers in her ear) But I won't.

JENNIFER: I don't understand.

JACK: I still haven't figured out who is behind the threats we received in Africa.

JENNIFER: (confusion) Then what - what are you doing here Jack?

JACK: (turns away from her and begins pacing) You're not the only one who was worried. Although I will admit it was easier for me since I knew where you were.

JENNIFER: You knew where we were and you didn't try to reach us?

JACK: (as though the answer would seem completely obvious) Jennifer, how could I do that? It would have alerted everyone else to where you two were.

JENNIFER: I'm sorry. I didn't mean to worry you. I was - we were scared.

JACK: I know that Jennifer. I don't blame you for what you did.

JENNIFER: Then why? Why do you think we should end everything?

JACK: There you go again, jumping to conclusions. Two and two does not always equal four Jennifer. I say that we should use your cover story for something. It doesn't mean I meant we should use it for a real breakup.

JENNIFER: (wide-eyed and through slightly gritted teeth) Jack Deveraux, could you stop talking me into circles and just tell me what you want to say? It drives me crazy.

JACK: (mock horror) The lady doth exaggerate. (BEAT -- his voice is now soft and almost seductive) You love it and what's more you know you love it.

JENNIFER: (moving closer to him so she can take his hands. She laughs nervously) Maybe - you know - I think you're right.

JACK: (takes one of his hands and cups his ear with it while the other hand continues to hold JENNIFER'S) I'm sorry Miss Horton. I don't, I'm not quite sure I heard you correctly. Could you repeat yourself?

JENNIFER smiles widely, her eyes brimming with tears. JACK is also grinning.

JENNIFER: (rising on her tiptoes to whisper in his ear) I said, you're right.

JACK: Ahh (BEAT) Now was that so difficult?

JENNIFER: No not really.

JACK: (brings his hands up to caress her face) Did I mention that I missed you?

JENNIFER: Jack -

JACK: (placing a finger to her lips) Shhh - enough talking.

They gaze at each other for a few moments before he leans down and kisses her gently on the lips.

JENNIFER: (eyes closed. JACK'S face is right near hers) So are you going to fill me in on this plan or do I have to guess?

OUT on JACK and JENNIFER, foreheads resting against each other, their lips turned up in identical smirks, the delight evident in their eyes.

***

SCENE FIVE - IN PROGRESS

JACK: (stepping away from her) Ah - the great plan. (BEAT) The great plan is not really all that great at all.

JENNIFER: (laughing) Come on Jack. This is me you're talking to and I know that you always have some great plan.

JACK: Hehehe (BEAT) Jack Deveraux, man with a plan. (He looks around the balcony. Spotting some stairs he grabs JENNIFER by the arm and leads her down them and into the garden where there's a bench) Would you care to have a seat? (JENNIFER sits while JACK paces) You have been safe while in Salem?

JENNIFER: I guess so Jack.

JACK: And Abigail - how is Abigail?

JENNIFER: (smiling at him) She's fine - safe. But she misses daddy terribly and doesn't understand why mommy said he wasn't coming home anytime soon when he promised her he would.

JACK: (visibly upset that he disappointed his daughter) Well, we'll figure out how to deal with that soon enough. In the meantime, after this little soiree is over, you and I will return to Salem, where we will live out this charade you've set up for us.

JENNIFER: (shaking her head) Wait a minute, Jack. We don't - we don't do that. I mean, we pretend to live together for safety sake, but we never have pretended to live apart for it. And when we are apart, look how things turn out.

JACK: Again with the rigid math, Miss Horton. Who said anything about us living apart? As you've pointed out, we have a long history of staying together when we weren't together, so for us to be separated but living together for the child's sake will be no different.

JENNIFER: (skeptical) That is crazy Jack. We've never actually fooled anyone but ourselves with that whole living together thing. I couldn't even fool my sixteen-year-old cousin that I was over you.

JACK: He's perceptive. (an idea begins to form) Perhaps the young lad would be interested in a career in journalism. (JACK'S eyes are wild with excitement) With a little guidance from yours truly we could hone his skills and begin a dynasty -- a dynasty to rival the Hearsts or the --

JENNIFER: Whoa there (grabs JACK'S hand and pulls him down next to her on the bench) Before you go corrupting him the way you did me.

JACK: I beg your pardon, you pursued me.

JENNIFER: (rolling her eyes) I meant professionally Jack.

JACK: (smirking) Oh you were always the epitome of professional, Jennifer.

JENNIFER: (points at his mouth which is still smirking at her) See - do you see that smile. It will give us away every time. No one who knows us or might be trying to hurt us is going to buy this.

JACK: (trying to regain his indifferent stance but failing miserably) For all intents and purposes Jennifer, we will appear to be two people who once were married and share a child, but who now share little else.

JENNIFER: So basically we just fight - a lot.

JACK: No different than usual then.

JENNIFER: Well -

JACK: What?

JENNIFER: Separate bedrooms?

JACK: (obviously disappointed) Yes, I suppose so.

JENNIFER: (groaning loudly. She stands up and paces) I think I like this plan even less than the great Ireland plan and I would like to point out that I was right about that one.

JACK: (mumbling) For once.

JENNIFER: (turning to him) What was that?

JACK: Nothing, nothing. (standing and holding out his hand to her) So do we have a deal?

JENNIFER: (unsure) Deal.

They shake hands and they're both smiling. When JACK removes his hand from hers he rubs his together in anticipation.

JACK: Just think Jennifer, we'll have a head start on our lives in Salem once we've put all of this Africa mess behind us.

JACK turns and does a little hop.

JENNIFER: (right behing him) Our what?

JACK: (continues walking up the stairs back to the balcony) Well think of it, we'll already have a beautiful home, perfectly decorated to our liking. Abigail will be in school and we'll be settled back into your favorite little town and mine. (JENNIFER has been following him but she stops at this) I can't see any reason for us to want to leave after that.

JENNIFER lifts up her skirt and runs around in front of him, visibly excited. JACK leans back, knowing what is coming next.

JENNIFER: Do you mean that Jack? You want us to stay in Salem?

JACK: Well (BEAT) it's what you want isn't it? (looks down at her excited face) And I will confess to missing the old stomping grounds a little.

JENNIFER is so excited that she forgets all thoughts of the plan and jumps eagerly into his arms, wraps her own around his neck and plants a kiss on his lips.

JACK: Whoa! Whoa! Down! Heel! (laughing as JENNIFER plants kisses all over his face) Jennifer! Do you really want to have to explain this to people?

JENNIFER: Well I could just tell them I'm trying to strangle you. (she smiles widely)

JACK: (smirking, he reaches behind his neck to pull her off of him) You almost did. (sets her down on the ground) What do you say we get this show on the road?

JENNIFER nods and straightens out her dress. Then she runs her hand over her hair to smooth it down. She turns to walk toward the door. When she reaches it, she looks back at him, on hand on her hip, the other on the doorknob.

JENNIFER: Well, what are you waiting for?

JACK walks over, hands in the pockets of his pants. He is obviously admiring JENNIFER.

JACK: Sorry, I was just enjoying the view. It's been a while.

JENNIFER: (wide-eyed) Jack! (she slaps him as he opens the door and walks through it, an amused grin on his face)

OUT on them bickering back and forth as the door close

Episode Two

Scene one

INT. - BALLROOM - PARIS - NIGHT

Some time has passed. The party is now in full swing. As the music continues to play, we see AUSTIN and GRETA dancing. Next we see BELLE and SHAWN laughing becaues BELLE can't exactly get the steps. BO and HOPE are also dancing but HOPE seems preoccupied with something out of view.

BO: (laughing and turning back to HOPE) Jack certainly seems to be enjoying himself.

HOPE: (wondering) Why does Jennifer seem to be enjoying herself too?

BO: She didn't look too happy to me.

HOPE: (shaking her head) You're not reading between the lines Bo.

BO: Why do I get the feeling you're not going to let this go?

HOPE: Because Jen is my cousin. I just want what's best for her, that's all.

BO: Don't you think she has to figure that out on her own?

HOPE: (sighing) Probably, but that doesn't mean I can't do some digging. (BEAT) And you're going to help me.

OUT om HOPE dragging BO by the hand to the buffet table

***

SCENE TWO

JACK and JENNIFER in progress as HOPE and BO come walking up to them.

JACK: -- So then I said, "Open wide and smile."

JENNIFER: (rolling her eyes) Jack, I've heard this story a million times.

JACK: True, but not while I was trying to make you eat a little something, now open up.

JACK grabs her nose and tries to force her mouth open

JENNIFER: Jack!

JACK: Je - (noticing BO and HOPE, he lets go of JENNIFER'S nose and puts down the cracker, brushing the crumbs off his hand).

Officer and Mrs. Brady, lovely to see you both. Belated congratulations on your nuptials. (shakes hands with BO) I really wish I could have been there, but Jennifer will just have to fill me in later.

BO: (amused) Thanks Jack. Were we interrupting something?

JENNIFER: Absolutely not! In fact -

JACK: Just a little foreplay between the former missus and myself. (He picks up the cracker again)

JENNIFER'S mouth opens wide, as do her eyes. JACK takes the opportunity to place the cracker in her mouth.

JACK: (CONT.) There we go. We have to keep her strength up. All this dancing tires her out, you know. Didn't have the opportunity to do much dancing in Africa and we're a bit out of practice.

JENNIFER: (slightly garbled as she tries to finish the cracker) No, we didn't Jack. Not with you -

JACK: (grabbing HOPE'S hand) Mind if I steal your wife for a few moments of silence, Bo?

BO: Oh no (JACK takes off with HOPE) no. (turning to JENNIFER) I guess this means I'm to take his wife off his hands.

JENNIFER: Ex.

BO: Huh?

JENNIFER: Ex - ex-wife. And I'd love to dance with you Bo because anything would be better than one more insane minute talking to Jack.

JENNIFER storms off toward the dance floor leaving BO behind.

BO: Uh - huh. (He grabs a glass of champagne from a passing waiter and drinks it all) You've got a long night ahead of you Brady.

OUT om BO joining JENNIFER

***

SCENE THREE

JACK and HOPE are dancing

***

SCENE FOUR

JENNIFER and BO are dancing, not too far away from JACK and HOPE. Throughout their conversation, JENNIFER looks at JACK, something which BO realizes.

BO: So Jen, I didn't know you knew the fine art of dancing - nineteenth century style.

JENNIFER: (distracted by JACK) Oh you know - boarding school, the odd party here and there, you pick it up.

BO: (smiling - he looks around and spots BELLE and SHAWN) Things seem to be going well for Shawn tonight.

JENNIFER: Uh - huh

JENNIFER manages to catch JACK'S eye for a moment and he gives her a little wave. She smiles in return.

BO: (noticing her smile) Haven't seen you do that in a while.

JENNIFER: (still distracted) Yeah.

BO: And I'm getting the feeling that for all of your protesting, you'd rather be dancing with Jack.

JENNIFER: (perking up at JACK'S name) I don't know what you're talking about Bo Brady.

BO: You've been mooning over him like a schoolgirl Jen.

JENNIFER: (emphatically) I have not.

BO: (laughing) I'm not complaining Jen. I mean you've been pretty miserable in Salem. You brighten around Abby, but that's about it (BEAT) until tonight.

JENNIFER: Just what are you implying?

BO: I'm not implying anything. I'm saying straight out that Deveraux still gets to you. Be it good or bad, he gets under your skin and I think you know it, he knows it and what's more - you both like it.

JENNIFER looks at BO, speechless, then glances at JACK and back at BO.

OUT on her face slightly turned up in a grin.

***

JACK: Why I left?

HOPE: Yes. Why would you leave the woman you love and your child, whom I know you adore?

JACK: Hehehe. You don't pull any punches do you Hope? Excuse me for a second.

They're dancing near the orchestra and JACK walks up to the CONDUCTOR, hands him something and then whispers to the man. The CONDUCTOR smiles and then nods as JACK points toward BO and JENNIFER. Then JACK walks the few steps back to HOPE.

JACK: (smiling a "happy jack" smile) Now where were we?

HOPE: What was that?

JACK: (looking around) What was what?

HOPE: (pointing to the orchestra) That! That thing you did up there with the conductor?

JACK: Oh -- oh that! That was nothing. Merely a request. (BEAT) So, what was your question again?

HOPE: (sighs) Why did you leave Africa?

JACK: Simple, I never left Africa, Jennifer did.

HOPE: (slightly exasperated) Then why did you leave Jen and Abby?

JACK: Too complicated to answer now Hope. But I think I can answer your other question a little better.

HOPE: Why you're back?

JACK: Yes (nodding) Yes. You see that's much simpler.

HOPE: Nothing with you is ever simple, but lay it on me Deveraux.

JACK: (deepens his voice) Okay Brady. (HOPE smiles) The simple answer is, I love my wife - or rather - my ex-wife. When we separated, I thought it would be for the best, but I know now that isn't the case. We're a team and we work best together.

HOPE: But Jack -

JACK: No "but"s Hope. That's how it is. Jennifer knows it as well as I do. (JACK looks over HOPE'S shoulder at JENNIFER and smiles) I just have to remind her of that. So now you have to follow my lead.

HOPE: (confused) What?

JACK: (leading her toward BO and JENNIFER) Follow my lead.

He guides her to where BO and JENNIFER are dancing and then bumps HOPE into BO.

JACK: A thousand apologies. (BEAT) But since we're both stopped can I persuade you to trade partners?

BO: (unsure) Uh - I - uh (looks to JENNIFER)

JENNIFER: Of course, Jack. Why should Bo and Hope be deprived of each other's company, just because we can't stand each other?

JACK: (letting go of HOPE and taking JENNIFER by the arm) Ah spoken like a true martyr. (BEAT) And while this dull music may be appropos at the moment, I think before long we'll all be kicking up our heels. Until later, dear cousins.

JACK whisks JENNIFER away and BO and HOPE look at each other.

BO: He is weirder now than he ever was.

HOPE: (smiling) Maybe, but he still loves Jen to distraction. (BEAT) Something strange is going on here Bo and we've got to figure it out.

BO: Not tonight Fancy Face. Let's just enjoy each other.

HOPE: (hugging him close to her) You're right. Tonight is for us.

OUT on BO and HOPE leaning in for a kiss

***

SCENE SIX

JACK and JENNIFER are dancing. Their distance while they dance would indicate two people who would rather be anywhere else, but the fluidity of their bodies reveals that these are two people completely in tune with each other and the way they can't keep their eyes off of the other indicates their great attraction and love. When the music stops, JACK catches the CONDUCTOR'S eye and nods. The man turns back to the orchestra and we hear "PARA DOS" begin.

JENNIFER: What is this?

JACK: (smiling) From Argentina with love. Shall we?

JENNIFER: I don't think we should. It's not a very good idea.

JACK: Au contraire, mon amie. C'est magnifique.

JACK pulls JENNIFER close to him and almost instinctively she follows along as they begin to tango. There is a buzz around the room, first because the music choice is so odd for the occasion and then because of JACK and JENNIFER. Soon a few other adventurous couples join in.

JACK: (As he pulls her up after a low dip) This is much easier when you don't have this ballgown on.

JENNIFER: (smiling wickedly) Is that an invitation?

JACK: Sounded like one, didn't it?

He guides her across the floor, their eyes always on each other. The air is electric between them and it doesn't go unnoticed.

BELLE: I thought dad said that they had broken up?

SHAWN: (amazed as JACK and JENNIFER cross in front of the young couple) I guess what they say is true -- dancing has a way of revealing a couple's true passions.

BELLE: (smiling) Maybe, we can get Jack and Jen to give us lessons back in Salem.

SHAWN: I don't think that's the sort of thing that can be taught.

As the music ends JACK eases JENNIFER back for one last dip. When he pulls her up they're both breathing heavier and their faces are inches away from each other and they're smiling. The sound of clapping wakes them from their reverie. They instinctively back away from each other and walk off the dance floor.

JACK: (waving) Thank you. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Tips always welcome.

JENNIFER: (leading him to a spot near the staircase) What was that?

JACK: I believe that it is called dancing.

JENNIFER: What it is called (lowering her voice, but enunciating clearly) is blowing our cover!

JACK: Jen - (noticing a man coming out from behind a curtain with a gun) Get down! (He shoves JENNIFER down) Everyone get down!

The next shots flash by at a slower than normal speed, but not quite in slow motion, with the sound of bullets flying and screaming.

We see JACK falling and then shielding JENNIFER.

CUT TO: JOHN diving on top of several guests near him and then glancing up to see if MARLENA is down. We see him motioning for her to get down.

CUT TO: MARLENA grabbing BELLE and them falling to the ground together.

CUT TO: SHAWN being hit by some flying object and falling to the ground.

CUT TO: PHILLIP down on the ground with an obviously shaken CHLOE nearby.

CUT TO: VICTOR being hit by a bullet and falling to the ground. KATE and NICOLE are both near him.

CUT TO: GRETA being hit by a bullet and slumping down next to AUSTIN.

OUT on the devastation

Episode Three

SCENE ONE - INT. - BALLROOM - PARIS - NIGHT

Chaos in progress. Several of the guests have been shot. The "cops and doctors" have begun to take over the situation.

JACK is still lying on top of JENNIFER, looking in the direction of where the gunman exited.

JENNIFER: (glancing around and more than a little anxious) Bo, are Hope and Shawn okay?

BO: Hope is fine. She's going to check on Shawn. (To JACK) Come on.

JACK: Me?

BO: Yeah, you got a good look at the guy, right?

JACK: It - it wasn't that good -

BO: Damn it Deveraux! You're a reporter. You get good looks at things quickly for a living. Now which way are we headed?

JACK: (pointing out the door) That way. (To JENNIFER as he gets up) I'll be right back. Don't worry.

JENNIFER: (grabbing his hand) You be careful Jack. (She squeezes it as he walks away. Then she watches him walk out of the room and whispers to herself) Be careful. (She wipes away the tears which are slowly trickling down her cheeks) Okay Jennifer, pull yourself together. You've got to help around here.

JENNIFER stands up and begins to survey the damage. She sees BRANDON holding ANGELA, speaking to her and JENNIFER immediately realizes there's nothing to be done there. Then she spots HOPE with SHAWN and rushes over.

JENNIFER: Oh my God, Hope! (She kneels down beside HOPE) Are you - is Shawn okay?

HOPE: Uh - Jen, I don't know. He hasn't been shot, but he's unconscious and -

JENNIFER: Shh - it's okay. I'm gonna see if someone has called the paramedics. (gets up to go and call)

HOPE: (grabbing her arm) Hurry Jen. Greta's been shot and Victor - I think I heard someone else say that he had been shot too and there are probably others.

JENNIFER: Okay you just take care of Shawn. I'll get us help.

OUT on JENNIFER running out of the ballroom.

***

SCENE TWO - INT. - BALLROOM - NIGHT

It's calming somewhat. There are medical personnel rushing about helping. GRETA has been taken away and so has VICTOR. There is a paramedic checking on SHAWN, who is now awake. JENNIFER and HOPE are next to him. MARLENA and BELLE are frantic because JOHN has collapsed.

JACK and BO re-enter the ballroom

BO: Fancy Face? (HOPE turns at the sound of his voice and wraps her arms around his waist) What happened big guy?

SHAWN: No big deal, dad. Bump on the head. That's it.

PARAMEDIC 1: (To HOPE and BO) We're going to take him to the hospital soon for observation. But you may accompany him in the ambulance if you would like.

HOPE: Thank you.

PARAMEDIC 2: Since he is stable, we're going to help some of the others with the critical patients and then we'll bring your son in.

HOPE: (nodding) Yes, of course. We'll stay with him.

JACK: That was quite the scare you gave us young man, but since all is well with you, I think it's about time I did a little reporting (He looks around the room)

JENNIFER: A little what?

JACK: Reporting (BEAT) I know you've heard of it, Jennifer. You take a pen or a pencil and a notebook and you ask questions of people to try to figure out the "who, what, when, why and how" of the situation.

JENNIFER: Yes Jack, I seem to recall it. What I meant was don't you think about cutting me out of this story. I am here to do a freelance piece -

JACK and JENNIFER are standing toe to toe throughout this entire exchange. At various points we see BO, HOPE and SHAWN exchange amused looks.

JACK: And what do you think I'm here doing?

JENNIFER: Other than making my life miserable? (BEAT) I thought you were here for the free food and champagne.

JACK: Hahaha, Miss Horton. Very funny. No, I'm here for a story so if you'll just excuse me. (He steps to the left, but she is there blocking him)

JENNIFER: I will not. This is my story Jack.

JACK: (steps to the right, but she's there again. He gives up and crosses his arms) It appears that we are at an impasse. So I'd like to propose a solution.

JENNIFER: (crossing her arms) And what would that be Jack?

JACK: Well our professional partnership has always proven to be successful in the past and in the midst of such a tragic occasion (JACK'S index finger points between the two of them) two heads are usually better than one.

JENNIFER: (grabs his finger) Are you suggesting we share a by-line?

JACK: I am. (BEAT) What do you say Miss H? It'll be just like old times.

JENNIFER: (wraps her hand in his) Fine Jack.

JACK: (shaking hands) Fine.

JENNIFER: But my name goes first.

They begin to walk away, their hands still clenched in their handshake.

JACK: Oh no "D" goes before "H".

JENNIFER: (shaking her head) That doesn't matter Jack. (drops JACK'S hand and then turns back to HOPE, BO and SHAWN, who are all stifling their laughter) We're just going to get some pens and paper -

JACK: I beg your pardon (pulls a pen and pad out of his inside right hand pocket) I always come prepared.

JENNIFER: (shooting him a look and then turning to HOPE and BO) Call us from the hospital with news. Leave a message at the hotel if you can't reach us. (turns back to JACK and pulls open his tux jacket) Now if I know you, you've come doubly prepared. (finds another notebook and pen in the opposite pocket) You always were a good little cub scout, Jack.

JACK: Hehehe. Keep your hands out of there in the future. (BEAT) Now you take that side (points in one direction) and I'll take this one. Meet you at the top of the stairs when you're done.

OUT on them looking intently at each other and then going in their separate directions

***

SCENE THREE - EXT. - PARIS - NEAR JENNIFER'S HOTEL - NIGHT

JACK and JENNIFER are walking down the sidewalk. JENNIFER'S shawl is wrapped around JACK'S neck like a scarf. We can see the ends of his undone bowtie sticking out from underneath it. JENNIFER is wearing JACK'S tuxedo jacket. In his right hand JACK is holding the notebook with her notes, his left holds JENNIFER'S right hand. JENNIFER'S other hand holds JACK'S notes. They're both reading as they walk.

JENNIFER: (grabbing the ends of it) Oh no you don't Jack. We've got business upstairs.

OUT on JENNIFER dragging him into the hotel by the ends of her shawl - wide grins on both of their faces

***

SCENE FOUR - INT. - JENNIFER'S HOTEL ROOM - PARIS - NIGHT

Entering her hotel room, JENNIFER still has one hand guiding JACK, who is behind her, by the ends of the shawl. His hands are placed on her waist. She tosses the key to the side table as he closes the door and then he spins her around to face him.

JACK: Ah ...

JENNIFER comes back out dressed in her nightgown. JACK is obviously captivated by the sight of her.

JACK: Well, you're a sight for sore eyes.

JENNIFER: Hmmm ... you're not so bad yourself.

She climbs onto the bed with him and leans over him temptingly. She grabs his tie.

JENNIFER: (CONT.) You don't really need this, do you?

JACK: Oh. (reaches up to kiss her but she moves her face and grabs the phone) What the hell?

JENNIFER: After the things that happened I thought you might want to talk to Abby. I - I know it's late but I thought just this once we could wake her up and talk to her.

JACK: (smiling) Why don't you dial the number?

JENNIFER smiles and then dials the number. She holds the phone between them. Two-way.

ALICE: (groggily) He - hello.

JENNIFER: Oh grandma! Grandma, it's Jennifer.

ALICE: Jennifer Rose?

JENNIFER: Yes Grandma. I'm sorry to call so late, but I need to talk to Abby. Can you get her for me?

ALICE: Of course darling. Is everything okay?

JENNIFER: No grandma, it's not exactly but I'll explain it to you later.

ALICE: Okay, Jennifer. (we hear a mumbling) Here she is.

ABIGAIL: (yawning) Mommy?

JENNIFER: Yes it's me baby and I have a surprise for you.

ABIGAIL: Ooooh, what's the surprise mommy?

JENNIFER hands the phone to JACK.

JACK: Hello Abigail.

ABIGAIL: Daddy!

We see ALICE smiling behind ABIGAIL.

JACK: How's my favorite little princess doing?

ABIGAIL: I'm fine daddy. I miss you so much. Are you coming home with mommy?

JENNIFER is leaning in to hear and her eyes are brimming with tears.

JACK: Yes Abigail. Mommy and daddy will be home in a couple of days and we'll tell you all about Paris then.

ABIGAIL: Okay daddy. I can't wait to see you. I love you so much.

JACK: (smiles) I love you too.

ABIGAIL: Can I talk to mommy now?

JACK: (NODS) Of course.

JACK hands the phone back to JENNIFER.

JENNIFER: Of course you can talk to mommy. What is it baby?

It is JACK'S turn to lean in and listen to the conversation.

ABIGAIL: I don't want you to think I don't miss you too.

JENNIFER: (smiles at JACK) I know you do baby.

ABIGAIL: Thank you for finding daddy for us.

JENNIFER: You're welcome honey.

ABIGAIL: Well, grandma and me are kinda tired so we're gonna go to bed now. I love you mommy. Will you give daddy a kiss from me?

JENNIFER: Mommy and daddy love you too. Tell grandma that mommy will call her tomorrow.

JACK: Good night Abigail.

JENNIFER hangs up the phone and looks at JACK. She then leans down and gives him a peck on the cheek.

JACK: What was that for?

JENNIFER: That was from Abby. (she leans down again and presses a tender and much longer kiss on his lips)

JACK: Hmmm ... was that from Grandma Horton?

JENNIFER: (slaps him playfully) That was from mommy.

JACK: (smiling) Oh well, I hope there's more where that came from.

JENNIFER: I've been saving them up for over six months. (she begins to open his shirt) I just hope your back can handle all I've got in mind for tonight.

JACK: (whispers) Don't forget (BEAT) it's had over six months of rest too.

JACK rolls her over onto her back on the bed and begins to kiss her and she giggles with delight at his touch. She pulls out the rest of his shirt and finally removes it.

OUT on their kissing.

***

SCENE FIVE

It is a short time later. JACK'S clothes are strewn everywhere and JENNIFER'S nightgown lies on the floor next to the bed. JENNIFER has the comforter wrapped around her. JACK is out of the room.

JENNIFER: (calling to him) Do you think this place has room service at this hour?

JACK: (V.O.) I certainly hope so.

JENNIFER: I'm starving. We didn't get much of anything to eat before at the coronation.

JACK: (stepping out of the bathroom - he is wearing JENNIFER'S robe over his silk boxers, but it is open) Well you had that cracker.

JENNIFER: (looking up at him and laughing) You look ridiculous.

JACK: Thank you. (BEAT) That's the look I was attempting to create.

He climbs onto the bed right behind her. She is leaning over the menu which allows JACK the opportunity to nuzzle her ear.

JENNIFER: Mmmm ...(her hand instinctively moving up in what would appear to be a deflecting motion, but instead she strokes his face) Jack, I (BEAT) I can't concentrate on the menu.

JACK: (still kissing her) That's the idea.

JENNIFER: I'm hungry.

JACK: So am I.

JENNIFER: (turns her face and kisses him) There's plenty of time for that later.

JACK: (seriously) Jennifer, there's never enough time for us and once we're back in Salem, we'll have to be pretending - all the time pretending -

JENNIFER: (smiles at him and tosses the menu. She wraps her arms around his neck) You're right. Tonight reminded me of that. But when I'm with you Jack, the rest of the world (She pushes an imaginary item out of the way) just goes away and it seems like time is on our side.

JACK pulls away from her but strokes the side of her face.

JACK: I know (BEAT) I know the feeling.

JENNIFER: (nods and her eyes filling with unshed tears) I missed you so much Jack.

JACK: Well that's one good thing about this new game of ours (BEAT) we'll be together all the time.

JENNIFER: Driving each other crazy.

JACK: (smiling and pulling her close to him as he lies back on the bed) Just like the old days.

JENNIFER: (also smiling) Yeah it is (BEAT) but how are we going to explain this to Abby?

JACK: (sighing) I don't know Jennifer. We'll - we'll just have to figure that out. And we will figure it out honey. Don't we always do what's best for Abigail?

JENNIFER: Yes, we do. (she settles in the crook of JACK'S arm)

A few moments pass where they're just enjoying each other's embrace

JACK: Tell me something, are you still hungry, Jennifer Rose?

JENNIFER: Starving!

JACK: Good, 'cause do you hear that?

JENNIFER: (looking at him) I didn't hear anything.

JACK: (sitting up) Are you - you're telling me that you didn't just hear someone say room service?

JENNIFER: Have you finally lost your mind Jack?

JACK: There it is again. (lifting the covers - his voice is muffled under the covers) Oh yes there's something which will satisfy me under there.

JENNIFER: Ah! Jack! (giggling) Just don't forget to leave a tip this time Jack!

OUT on them unseen under the covers, giggling and whispering things to each other

Prologue *** Chapters 1 - 3 *** Chapters 4 - 6 *** Chapters 7 - 9 *** Chapters 10 - 12 *** Chapter 13

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