Untitled

by Denise

Chapters 7 - 9

Episode 7

SCENE ONE - INT. - JACK AND JENNIFER'S KITCHEN - EARLY MORNING

A week has passed. JACK is at a table in their sparsely decorated kitchen, dressed in a dark blue suit with a cup of coffee near by for "nourishment". He is concentrating as he circles with a red pen what appears to be a want ad and then prints in big block letters, "Jennifer".

JENNIFER comes stumbling into the room, dressed in her bathrobe. She yawns and scratches her head making her hair a little wild.

JENNIFER: (sleepily and through half-closed eyes) Mmmm ... Jack is that you?

JACK: (standing up) In the flesh. Good to see you up and about, sleepyhead.

JENNIFER: It's only seven-thirty Jack.

JACK: (kissing her cheek) Uh huh. But the early bird catches the uh ... Well he catches something.

JENNIFER: (facing him) The worm, Jack. The early bird catches the worm.

JACK: (shrugs and walks to the table to pick up his coffee) You've always been the worm lover, not me. (starts to walk out with his coffee and then points at the paper) That's for you. I'll see you later.

JENNIFER: (glancing at the paper, she rolls her eyes and smirks) Wait! Jack where are you going?

OUT on JENNIFER rushing out of the kitchen

***

SCENE TWO - INT. - JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - EARLY MORNING

JENNIFER coming into the living room as JACK is putting on his coat

JENNIFER: Where are you going Jack?

JACK: Work.

JENNIFER: Why won't you tell me what this job is that you're so busy doing all the time?

JACK: It's just a job Jennifer. Something to pay the bills. (He pats his coat pocket looking for his keys)

JENNIFER: It's dangerous, isn't it? And that's why you won't tell me what it is.

JACK: It's - no it's not dangerous. Although I have a feeling that after today it's going to get worse, perhaps dangerous on occasion. (BEAT) Why don't you give me a kiss for luck?

JENNIFER: I don't kiss men who keep secrets from me.

JACK: (turning and exaggerating his motions as if to get reactions from her) I think I better just go. (walks off, pausing to grab his keys from the table)

JENNIFER crosses her arms, trying to not follow him, but it proves unsuccessful.

JENNIFER: (to herself) Ooohhhh, sometimes that man -

She rushes after him and goes into the foyer only to find him leaning against the wall, grinning and waiting for her.

JACK: Going somewhere in that outfit?

JENNIFER: No, I - uh - I just wanted to make sure you -- (glancing at the door) you locked the door.

JACK: Oh well, if that's all, rest assured, I'll lock it. (turns to leave)

JENNIFER: Oh no you don't.

She grabs his arm to stop him and then wraps her arms around her neck to kiss him. When she pulls back he is smiling at her

JENNIFER: What?

JACK: No minty fresh breath this morning, Jennifer Rose? (She swats at his arm and he is laughing)

JENNIFER: I don't know why I even bother with you, Jack.

JACK: Because I'm so charming. (He reaches in his pocket and then tosses something to her) Take care of that problem before I get home, Miss Horton. (She catches the object he threw at her and looks at it. It is a mint and she can't help but laugh at his teasing.) I will see you later.

JENNIFER: Maybe.

She smiles as he closes the door behind him and then locks it. He is making goofy faces at her through the glass. After he leaves she walks over to the bottom of the stairs.

JENNIFER: (calling up) Abigail, are you ready for school?

ABIGAIL: (V.O.) Almost mommy.

JENNIFER: (to herself) Good, just enough time for a cup of coffee before I get dressed. (looks back at the door) And time to try and figure out just what you're up to Jack Deveraux.

OUT on JENNIFER.

***

SCENE THREE - INT. - JACK AND JENNIFER'S HOUSE - MID-MORNING.

A few hours have passed and JENNIFER comes into the living room carrying some bags. She puts them down on a chair and tosses her keys to the table, removes her coat and then heads for the kitchen.

JENNIFER: (looking around and grabbing an apple from a basket on the counter) We still need to shop some more this weekend. (biting into the apple, she picks up a pencil and pad and goes to the table to sit) Now let's see here, I can cross off the extra towels I just bought and the new rug for the back door. I need another set of sheets for Abby's bed and I still need some curtains for that upstairs bathroom ... maybe blinds would be better (she begins to tap the pencil absentmindedly. She notices the newspaper with her name written at the top and smiles thinking of JACK) What is this Jack? The want ads? A little hint I suppose that I need to start pulling my weight around here financially. (She gets up to get a glass of water, bringing the paper with her and mumbles) It's not as though I don't want to contribute - (begins reading the ad as she drinks her water, her eyes grow wide over the rim of the glass) Now why would Jack ... (smiles, realizing) He knows I miss it.

She sets the glass down and looks at the paper again. Then she slaps it against her hand

JENNIFER: Well I'd hate to disappoint him when he went to all this trouble to let me know about the job.

OUT on JENNIFER'S huge smile as she walks out of the kitchen

***

SCENE FOUR - INT. - LIVING ROOM - NOONTIME

It is a few hours later. JENNIFER is arranging some family pictures on a shelf in the living room. The sounds of BILLIE HOLIDAY can be heard coming from the CD player as JENNIFER hums along.

JENNIFER: (admiring her arrangement) That's not bad, not bad at all.

The phone rings and she walks over to answer it, still glancing at the shelves. ONE-WAY

JENNIFER: Horton-Deveraux residence. (BEAT) This is Jennifer Horton. Oh you did receive it, that's great! (SEVERAL BEATS) This afternoon? Uh ... wow I didn't think you'd want to see me so quickly. (BEAT) Oh of course, I understand you need to get someone to start as soon as you can. (BEAT) Three would be fine. Thank you Miss Simpson.

She hangs up the phone

JENNIFER: An interview. I need to figure out what I'm going to wear (starts to go to the stairs) Oh no, first I need to find someone to watch Abby for me. Hmm ... Grandma or Hope?

She picks up the phone and dials. TWO-WAY

HOPE: Hello.

JENNIFER: Hi Hope, it's me.

HOPE: Jen, how's the house? How are all of you adjusting?

JENNIFER: (smiling) We're fine. The house is beautiful and in desperate need of several quality shopping excursions to purchase more items for it, but it's really coming along nicely.

HOPE: Good, I'm sorry we haven't been over to see it yet.

JENNIFER: Don't be silly, we've only been here a few days and we're so busy getting settled in that we really wouldn't know what to do with visitors if we had them. (BEAT) Anyway, I called because I have a favor to ask you.

HOPE: Sure, what can I do for you?

JENNIFER: I have a job interview this afternoon at three and Abby gets out of school at 2:15. I was wondering if I could drop her off for a couple of hours?

HOPE: Of course. Are you sure you'll have enough time? I could pick her up for you instead.

JENNIFER: No, it's on the way and I enjoy picking her up from school.

HOPE: Okay. So are you going to tell me about this job?

JENNIFER: It's - I'll tell you what. I'll tell you all about it once I get it. But I can tell you that it would be a dream come true if I did get the job.

HOPE: I'm glad to hear that. You deserve some happiness Jen. (BEAT - we hear JT crying) Oh, Jen, JT is waking up and I've got to feed him. I'll see you and Abby later.

JENNIFER: Sure. Thanks Hope.

HOPE: Anytime.

JENNIFER hangs up the phone and sighs

JENNIFER: Actually, it would be half a dream come true, but it's a start.

OUT on JENNIFER'S hopeful face

***

SCENE FIVE - INT. - SPECTATOR OFFICES - MID-AFTERNOON

JENNIFER is walking into the offices of the SPECTATOR. She smiles as she glances around the newsroom. Then she walks over to a desk.

JENNIFER: Excuse me, sorry to bother you. Could you tell me where I might find Mary Simpson?

The reporter doesn't look up, just points in the direction of a desk across the room.

JENNIFER: Uh ... thanks (walks away) I think. Not the friendliest bunch. (reaching MARY'S desk) Mary Simpson?

MARY: (very friendly) Yes and you must be Jennifer Horton. (glances at the clock on the wall) Punctual, the boss will like that. We've had a lot of applicants, but no one that seemed to click with our owner. I think you just might be exactly the person we need around here.

JENNIFER: (surprised) Thank you.

MARY: Just head on in there. He's expecting you.

JENNIFER: Just walk right in like I own the place? (MARY nods) Well, I've - I think I remember the way. Thank you Mary.

MARY: Good luck. (As JENNIFER walks into the office) This should be fun.

JENNIFER walks into the editor's office. There are a few changes but otherwise it looks very much like it did when JACK ran the paper. The chair behind the desk is facing away from JENNIFER and she seems mesmerized by being back in the office.

JENNIFER: (softly) I guess the more things change, the more they stay the same.

At that moment the chair spins around, revealing JACK sitting there. He leans forward on the desk.

JACK: It's funny, I was just thinking that myself.

OUT on JENNIFER'S shocked expression

***

SCENE SIX - IN PROGRESS

JENNIFER rushes around to his side of the desk and pulls him out of the chair.

JENNIFER: Jack, what are you doing here? Did Hope tell you where I was? (BEAT) Are you interviewing too? Are there that many openings?

JACK: (sitting back down and ignoring JENNIFER'S questions) I will say that this chair is more comfortable than my old one. (taps the desk) Same ole desk though.

JENNIFER: You can't be sitting there when the boss gets in here for my interview Jack.

JACK: (playing along) Oh you're right of course.

JACK gets up from the desk, takes her hand and then they sit on the couch.

JENNIFER: So are you interviewing too?

JACK: Not exactly.

JENNIFER: How many jobs are open here?

JACK: A lot. (lowers voice) And there's more everyday from what I hear. The new owner is a bit of a tyrant.

JENNIFER: But Jack, I don't understand what you're doing here. Don't you have a job?

JACK: Yes.

JENNIFER: So why are you here and why did you leave me the ad this morning?

JACK: Well - I - after our conversation the other night I thought you were missing this place. And when I heard about the opening, I thought you might want to look into it. (BEAT) Tell me, now that you're here, do you feel the same way?

JENNIFER: (smiles) Yes.

JACK: It's not just that old nostalgic, sentimental feeling you get?

JENNIFER: No, I've missed the daily hustle and bustle. The excitement of working under a deadline and just beating it. (BEAT) But I'd be lying if I were to say that I wouldn't wish you were here too. That would make it just perfect.

JACK: I'm glad you said that. Come with me. (TAKES HER HAND) I want to show you something.

They go back out to MISS SIMPSON'S desk

MARY: Mr. Deveraux, Miss Horton. (BEAT) Is there something I could do for you?

JENNIFER: Actu -

JACK: Could you give me that paper I gave you earlier?

MARY: (smiling) Certainly. (She shuffles through some papers and then hands him the one he is requesting) There you go Mr. Deveraux.

JENNIFER: Jack what is going on here?

JACK: (To MISS SIMPSON) It's time for the big reveal. (turning to JENNIFER) This should explain everything.

He hands her the piece of paper

JENNIFER: Wh -

JACK: Go ahead (smirking) Read it.

JENNIFER: It's some sort of memo, Jack.

JACK: Go ahead.

JENNIFER: (reading from the paper) Please join me in welcoming our new managing editor, Jennifer Horton(looks up) Jack?

JACK: Keep reading. You're getting to the good part.

JENNIFER: Miss Horton has proven her talents in many capacities in a variety of mediums and will be an excellent addition to our paper during this transitional period. (BEAT) Jack Deveraux. Jack - you're - what? When? How?

JACK: Honing those reporting skills already. Why don't we step back into my office and see if I can't answer a few of those questions for you. (takes her arm and leads her to the office)

JENNIFER: (comprehending but still confused) Your office?

MARY: Welcome aboard Miss Horton! (picks up her phone and dials an extension) She's in!

OUT on MARY'S excited face

***

SCENE SEVEN - INT. - JACK'S OFFICE

A short time later

JENNIFER: (standing in front of the desk) So how did you find this money?

JACK: (sitting) I knew it was there all along. It was just a matter of figuring out how to claim it.

JENNIFER: So that's what you've been doing?

JACK: Well, it - it was part of what I was doing while you were in Ireland, yes. And as soon as I had the money, it was crystal clear to me what I wanted to do with it.

JENNIFER: So when did you buy the paper?

JACK: I made the initial inquiries before the coronation and bought it within a couple of days of our return home.

JENNIFER: (walking to his side of the desk) Well, why the big secret?

JACK: (smiling and teasing) I wasn't sure you wanted to do this. After all, you did desert us once before and I needed some sort of assurance.

JENNIFER: You practically pushed me out the door. I would have come back here in an instant if you would have asked me at any point -

JACK: (pulling her down to sit on his lap) Well maybe you should have marched right in here and told me you were returning. That is your usual style.

JENNIFER: Are you saying I am pushy? (drapes her arms around his neck)

JACK: Hmmm ... brazen and bold is more like it.

JENNIFER: And you're sneaky, manipulative, deceitful -

Their faces are close to each other almost touching

JACK: (softly) You always did know how to sweet talk me Miss Horton.

JENNIFER: (seductively) Well I don't know about you but I've had enough talking for right now.

They grin at each other and then she leans in and kisses him passionately

JENNIFER: Let's go pick up Abby and get some dinner to celebrate.

JACK: Better still (kisses her softly) Let's go home and celebrate and then pick up the child and go out to dinner.

JENNIFER: (smiling widely) I just love the way you think Mr. D.

OUT on them kissing again

 

Episode 8

SCENE ONE - INT. - JENNIFER'S OFFICE - SPECTATOR - DAY

It is a few days later. JENNIFER is sitting in her office, going over some assignments for the day. She is also on the phone speaking with one of the reporters.

JENNIFER: I'm sorry but this story is not going to cut it. (BEAT) I understand that it is the type of story you've been turning in, but stories on mutant babies being born in farmhouses on the outskirts of Salem are not in line with the editorial policy of our new owner. (JULIE'S face appears in the doorway to JENNIFER'S office. JENNIFER sees her and waves her inside.) I'm sorry you feel that way. Feel free to take it up with Mr. Scofield. His new extension in 215. But he's just going to tell you the same thing I did.

JENNIFER sighs and hangs up the phone

JULIE: (sarcastically) Pleasant day?

JENNIFER: It will be easier once we sift through all of the good and the bad around here. Vern and I have had at least a million meetings discussing the new policies and they're still not getting it.

JULIE: You'll get through it.

JENNIFER: We have to Julie. All of us really want to see the Spectator back on top where it belongs. You wouldn't believe how run down Titan let it get. I don't know how Vern held out as long as he did.

JULIE: Ah yes, Vern. How's he doing now that he's back to being Jack's right hand man?

JENNIFER: (laughing) Well you know Jack and Vern. They fight a great deal, but it's only because they respect each other so much. Jack will exasperate and abuse Vern and Vern ... well Vern will take it all in stride, like he always has.

JULIE: Sounds like someone else I know in Jack's life.

JENNIFER: (smiling but ignoring JULIE'S insinuation) So what can I do for you Julie?

JULIE: Well actually there's a couple of things I wanted to ask you. The first has to do with Hope. Have you noticed her strange behavior lately?

JENNIFER: (thinking) Well, she's seemed stressed, but I figured that was planning the wedding and JT's illness.

JULIE: (shaking her head) No, this is more recent.

JENNIFER: I'm sorry Julie. Since we returned home from Paris, we have been so busy house hunting and moving and now all of this with the Spectator that I feel like I see Jack and Abby and that's it.

JULIE: I understand.

JENNIFER: I could call her though and just let her know that I'm here if she needs to talk about anything that might be worrying her. Sometimes, just getting things out can help.

JULIE: (reaching across the desk and squeezing JENNIFER'S hand) That would be wonderful darling. Thank you.

JENNIFER: I'd do anything to help Hope if she's in trouble, you know that. (BEAT) Now what was this second thing?

JULIE: Something much happier. Jack has been home for almost a month and you've been here a bit longer. Now you two and Abby have a new home and some of us were thinking that it's about time that we have a Welcome home Jack, Jennifer and Abby - slash - housewarming - slash - Congratulations on regaining the Spectator party for all of you.

JENNIFER: (touched by the gesture) That's very nice of you Julie, but you know Jack doesn't like that sort of attention.

JULIE: I know he pretends not to like it, but Jennifer, darling, he loves our family. I know he does. And even if you're not back together (arches her eyebrow at JENNIFER) we all adore him too.

JENNIFER: (hating the lies) Julie, there's - (the phone rings) Just a second. (PICKS UP THE PHONE) Hello? (BEAT) Yes Jack (BEAT) I'll be right in there. (BEAT) Okay ... okay ... yes Jack ... please just calm down. (hangs up the phone - JULIE is amused) I'm sorry Julie, more problems with the reporters. (She stands and begins to gather some folders)

JULIE: What should I do about the party Jennifer?

JENNIFER: Umm ... I really just don't think (walks to the door and opens it - looking back at JULIE) You know what? I'll talk to Jack about it and see what he says and I'll call you tonight, how's that?

JENNIFER spins and walks out

JULIE: (waving) Good ... bye darling.

OUT on JULIE shaking her head and getting ready to leave

***

SCENE TWO - INT. - JACK'S OFFICE - DAY

JACK, JENNIFER and VERN are all in JACK'S office, discussing their reporter problems.

JACK: Well if they won't cooperate, we fire them.

JENNIFER: Jack they're good reporters -

VERN: They've just been skating through on their stories for the past few years. They've got to get out of those lazy habits -

JACK: (looking intently at VERN) Which reminds me of something. How could you let that happen to our paper?

VERN: Do I need to remind you that you were the one who lost "our" paper?

JENNIFER: Alright you two, both of you to your respective corners. (JACK takes a seat in his chair and VERN takes the couch) Okay. The three of us sniping at each other won't do any good for this place. We have to show a united front.

VERN: (dejectedly) You're right Jenny-girl.

JENNIFER looks at JACK

JACK: (mumbling) I still think we should fire the lot of them and start fresh.

JENNIFER: If we do that, it would be the three of us putting out this paper and that wouldn't make a whole lot of sense.

JACK: (looking as though it makes perfect sense to him) Yes and (nods realizing she is right) - and that is not practical. (sits back in his seat and contemplates the situation) So you think if I were to call a meeting with everyone where we outline, clearly, the new editorial policy and what is expected of them that it would help?

JENNIFER and VERN look at each other in disbelief that JACK would give in and ask for their opinion on something.

VERN: Well at least if we do that, we'll have something legal and official to fall back on if we do have to fire someone.

JENNIFER nods. She looks at JACK and can tell he's upset.

JENNIFER: Vern, why don't you go to Mary and tell her to send out an email to everyone about the meeting. Tell them it will be mandatory and take place the day after tomorrow. (turns to JACK) Jack? The day after tomorrow?

JACK: (faraway look in his eyes) Huh? Yes, yes, the day after tomorrow and make it bright and early too.

VERN: (concerned) Sure Jack. I suppose we should all meet this afternoon ... discuss this policy?

JENNIFER: (equally concerned) Yes, Vern. About two-thirty?

VERN nods and glances once more at JACK before leaving

JENNIFER: (turning to face JACK) So, are you going to tell me what's bothering you?

OUT on JACK

***

SCENE THREE - IN PROGRESS

JACK: Isn't it obvious? These reporters are going to drive me crazy.

JENNIFER: Oh it's not the first time you've had problems with reporters.

JACK: (sighs) Hmm ... but they have twice the attitude, half the talent, little of the enthusiasm and (slight pause) none of the beauty that pesky cub reporter had.

JENNIFER: (smiling) Well you know I still have plenty of attitude and enthusiasm and we're gonna get through to them. (BEAT) And I know you better now too.

JACK: Oh no I think you had me pegged then too.

JENNIFER: Jack, I know this is frustrating you, but it isn't all of it.

JACK: No, it isn't (He stands up and walks to her, taking her hands in his) We worked so hard Jennifer to build this, our little newspaper, into something special and Titan neglected it, ruined it, turned it into some cheap, second-rate tabloid.

JENNIFER: (wrapping her arms around him) Jack, I know you love this paper, that it is your baby. But we can rebuild it again. (BEAT) This isn't like you at least not when it comes to this paper. You've always believed in it.

JACK: This isn't just my baby. I meant it when I said our paper. It's yours and mine and Vern's and it's Abigail's future. I want it to be something we all can take pride in -

JENNIFER: And we will (backs up and looks in his eyes) You're still not telling me everything. There's more to it, I can tell Jack Deveraux. You can't hide from me, not anymore.

JACK walks back around to his chair and takes his seat but says nothing

JENNIFER: (frustrated) Fine Jack. Nothing to say. Well, I have something to tell you. (BEAT) Julie wants to throw you a welcome home party.

JACK: (groans) Jennifer, I hate those things.

JENNIFER: (goes over and kneels in front of him) Do you think I don't know that? That's exactly what I told her. But you know what Jack, I think it would be fun. (BEAT - softer now) I almost told her the truth today. She kept dropping all of these hints about us. I can't take this anymore Jack. Our family (JACK turns his face from her, but she grabs him and makes him listen to her) Our family wants to be happy for us and I don't see any reason why we shouldn't allow them to be.

JACK sighs. He turns away from her and reaches into his desk, pulling out a few pieces of paper. He hands them to her and then stands up and walks over to get a glass of water from the side table.

JENNIFER: (reading) When - when did you get these?

JACK: The first one came when we were staying with your grandmother. (takes a sip of his water) I found the last one yesterday morning on the desk in our living room.

JENNIFER: In our house? Someone broke into our house and left these little "warnings" for us and you didn't tell me?

JACK: I didn't want to worry you.

JENNIFER: That's it Jack. We're done. (drops the letters and walks over to him) I'm not going to play this little game anymore. Whoever is sending these threats obviously knows that we're still together, so we're telling our family and we're telling them soon.

JACK: (mumbling) Agreed.

JENNIFER: What?

OUT on JENNIFER

***

SCENE FOUR - IN PROGRESS

JACK and JENNIFER are standing near the side table, facing each other

JACK: I agree. Obviously the person or group or whomever is sending us these messages know what we're up to, so there is no point in lying to your - to our family. (BEAT) But we're not going to tell them at this little party. If I know Julie, half of Salem will be there and those people don't need to know the details of our private lives. Let them have the party and then we'll tell the family at some other time.

JENNIFER: Okay.

JACK: It'll be easier this way and -

JENNIFER: (wrapping her arms around him and resting her head on his chest) Nothing about this is easy Jack. I know you're worried and scared for Abby -

JACK: And you.

JENNIFER: (her head still on his chest, she smiles) And me, but you don't have to bear the brunt of this alone Jack. We got into this thing together (pulls back and looks at him) and we're going to get through this together.

JACK: Hmm ... (walks away and sits in his chair)

JENNIFER: (turning to him) We can Jack.

JACK: We don't even know who we're beating here Jennifer. And I - I can't shake this feeling that this is something more than just our investigations in Africa.

JENNIFER: I don't know what you mean.

JACK: Why would they follow us to Salem? For all intents and purposes, we finished those investigations when we left Africa. So why, months later, are we still receiving threats? (getting more agitated) And why the hell don't they just get it over with already? The anticipation is trying my patience.

JENNIFER: (horrified to see him this way) You don't mean that.

JACK: Don't I? I spent six months away from you and our daughter to try to keep you safe and it didn't do a damn bit of good.

JENNIFER walks over and stands behind his chair, massaging his shoulders

JACK: (softly) I hate fighting phantoms.

JENNIFER: (wraps her arms around his neck, he places a hand on her hands) We will figure this out Jack and then we won't be fighting phantoms anymore. We'll be defeating people who have tried to hurt us.

JACK sighs and leans his head back in the chair and closes his eyes.

OUT on JENNIFER leaning over and kissing him gently.

***

SCENE FIVE - INT. - JACK AND JENNIFER'S HOUSE - EVENING

It is getting dark and we see a shadowy figure making his way through the quiet, deserted house. After a few moments he glances around and then walks out the door.

***

SCENE SIX - IN PROGRESS

In the glow of the porch light we can make out a face. We recognize him as COLIN, JACK and JENNIFER'S friend from Africa, who was supposed to stay with her when she and ABIGAIL went to Ireland. He is closing the door.

ABIGAIL: (V.O.) Did you have a hard day at the newspaper?

We see panic cross COLIN'S face

JENNIFER: (V.O.) Well it was a little difficult in the morning -

JACK: (V.O.) But it got better and better in the afternoon.

COLIN is calming down as he turns in their direction. We see JENNIFER and JACK walking up the front walk. ABIGAIL is in between them, holding each of their hands. JACK and JENNIFER are completely focused on their daughter so they don't notice COLIN.

JENNIFER: And how do you like spending the afternoon with Grandma after school?

ABIGAIL: Oh I like it just fine (looking up at the door) Oh my goodness (letting go of JACK and JENNIFER'S hands and rushing forward) Uncle Colin! (She leaps into his arms)

JACK and JENNIFER are both obviously shocked to see him

OUT on COLIN'S smiling face

 

Episode 9

SCENE ONE - EXT. - JACK AND JENNIFER'S HOUSE - NIGHT

JACK and JENNIFER have just found COLIN outside of their house. COLIN is holding ABIGAIL in his arms as they look out on JACK and JENNIFER'S shocked faces.

COLIN: Well I don't expect you to rush into my arms like the little one here, but don't I even deserve a hello?

JENNIFER and JACK exchange a look

JENNIFER: We're just - of course, Colin, of course we're happy to see you.

She walks over and gives him a hug but JACK remains somewhat aloof.

JACK: How was your flight over from ... where were you exactly?

COLIN releases JENNIFER from their hug and sets down ABIGAIL. He walks closer to JACK.

COLIN: It was fine. Just flew in from Rome.

JACK: And the first thing you do is check in on us? (BEAT) We're flattered.

COLIN: Come now Jack. I've no other reason for being here but to check on all of you.

JENNIFER: (sensing the tension) Well, why don't you come in Colin (she turns and puts her key in the lock) and we'll visit. I'm afraid we already had dinner with Grandma but I'm sure we can find you a little something.

COLIN: Oh no, I'd hate to impose -

JACK: (clapping his hand on COLIN'S shoulder) No, no. We can't have you spreading the word around the globe that Jennifer Horton and Jack Deveraux are bad hosts.

COLIN smiles weakly and JENNIFER and ABIGAIL head into the house.

JACK: And we've so much to catch up on, my friend.

OUT on JACK guiding COLIN through the door.

***

SCENE TWO - INT. - JACK AND JENNIFER'S HOUSE - NIGHT

JENNIFER and ABIGAIL have walked through to the kitchen. JACK and COLIN are in the living room. COLIN walks over to one of the shelves and picks up a picture. He appears nervous. JACK is watching his every move.

COLIN: One of my favorite pictures of your family Jack.

JACK: Hmmm ... as I recall you took that picture of us and Bill at Lake Victoria.

COLIN: (setting it down and moving to the desk) No, I think it was your friend Eve that took that one. She had quite an eye for that sort of thing.

JACK: Yes she did and still does. She's enjoying herself. Traveling, taking pictures, men fawning all over her ... it's everything she's ever wanted.

COLIN: Photography ... a fun hobby ... one of my favorites.

JACK: Among many.

COLIN turns to look at him curiously. JENNIFER pops her head through the doorway.

JENNIFER: How about leftover lasagna?

COLIN: (smiling) Sounds great.

ABIGAIL: (V.O.) Oh no mommy. This one has the nasty green stuff too.

JENNIFER grimaces and JACK smirks at her

JACK: We always have never-ending fuzzy leftovers when you cook.

JENNIFER: Funny Jack.

ABIGAIL: (entering the room) There's leftover Chinese from last night, mommy.

JACK: (jokingly) No potstickers though. Miss Horton and her mini Miss Manners ate them all.

ABIGAIL AND JENNIFER: (laughing) We only eat them because you let them go to waste -

ABIGAIL: Daddy!

JENNIFER: Jack!

JACK: (To COLIN) Daddies and Jacks get no respect around here. (BEAT) Well what are you waiting for, our friend Colin is probably starving. Quit it, quit laughing (He walks over and hustles them both off to the kitchen. The girls are still giggling)

COLIN sighs and quietly opens the top drawer of the desk, pulling an envelope out and slipping it in his pocket.

COLIN: Too close.

OUT on COLIN

***

SCENE THREE - INT. - JACK AND JENNIFER'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT

It is sometime later. ABIGAIL is sitting on JENNIFER'S lap on the couch. JACK sits on the chair and COLIN is on the opposite side of the couch.

COLIN: (setting his plate on the coffee table and wiping his mouth with a napkin) That hit the spot Miss Abby.

ABIGAIL: (deadpans) I slaved over it for hours.

JACK: Or five minutes in front of the microwave. It's a lifetime to a child. (smiles) She'll be as fine a cook as her mother someday with skills like those.

JENNIFER: (enjoying the teasing) Hmmm ... no one can whip up a frozen dinner in the microwave like I can.

JENNIFER turns to look at JACK and they exchange wide grins

COLIN: I'm so glad to see you all well and happy, back together as you belong.

ABIGAIL: Mommy found daddy in Paris and brought him home for us.

COLIN: Oh really?

ABIGAIL nods excitedly

JACK: Yes she did. (BEAT) And now I think it is time for you to go find your toothbrush Abigail.

ABIGAIL: But daddy!

JACK: No buts and don't even try giving me that look with your eyes that mommy taught you because it won't work. (ABIGAIL smiles at JENNIFER and they both turn to JACK, giving him 'the look'. JACK squeezes his eyes shut) It won't work!

JENNIFER: Daddy is right baby. It's time for bed. You have a long and busy day at school tomorrow.

ABIGAIL: Okay. (she jumps up and runs to COLIN) We have a field trip tomorrow. We're going to the science center where you can see all sorts of fun things, like tornadoes and dinosaurs.

COLIN: (tousles her hair) Sounds like a great deal of fun.

ABIGAIL: Will you be here tomorrow to visit some more Uncle Colin?

COLIN: (unsure) We'll see darlin'.

ABIGAIL: (hugging him) I hope you are. (runs back to JENNIFER and hugs her) Good night mommy. (scoots over to JACK and looks him in the eye) Good night daddy. Hurry up and come tell me my story! (hugs him) Tonight is the pillow story.

JACK: Oh the pillow story ...

JENNIFER: One of my favorites.

JACK: Hehehe. (To ABIGAIL) Okay princess, we'll be up in a bit. Go get ready.

ABIGAIL: I'll be waiting.

ABIGAIL runs out of the room. JACK, JENNIFER and COLIN are all silent for a few moments.

COLIN: (clears his throat) So you're back working for a newspaper? I didn't figure you'd go back to that after the mess in Africa.

JENNIFER looks at him surprised

JACK: Not working for one - we own it. We bought back our paper - The Spectator.

JENNIFER: How did you know that we were working on the newspaper Colin? I thought you just got into town.

COLIN: (smoothly) I did. I heard Abby mention it to you both when you were coming up the walk.

JENNIFER: Oh.

JACK: Well you seem to know what we're doing here in Salem, Colin. So why don't you tell us exactly what you are doing here?

OUT on JACK'S curious face

***

SCENE FOUR - IN PROGRESS

JACK and JENNIFER are anxious to find out what COLIN is doing in Salem. He seems cool as he answers them.

COLIN: I told you Jack. I came to check on all of you.

JACK: (unconvinced) Check on us?

JENNIFER: What Jack means is that most people would call to check on someone rather than fly from Rome to Salem without so much as an email saying you're coming.

JACK: (standing and pacing) What Jack means is how the hell did you find us?

COLIN: Well you're not exactly keeping a low profile. Your story covering the coronation was all over the papers in Europe and a fine piece of journalism it was too. So I knew you'd been together in Paris and when you'd been there. I had some friends search for your destination when you left Paris and it was Salem. I located Jennifer's grandmother's phone number and asked her where you were living.

JENNIFER: Grandma didn't mention a phone call when we ate dinner.

COLIN: I phoned yesterday. She probably forgot.

JACK: (still suspicious) Humph. (BEAT) So why don't you explain to me how you could abandon my - how you could abandon Jennifer and Abigail in Ireland when I trusted you to watch them for me.

COLIN: I'm really sorry about that Jack. We are friends and ya know I'd hate it if you thought ill of me for it. But you all weren't the only ones receiving threats. I thought it best if I -

JACK: (interrupting) You thought it best for you to abandon them, to leave them alone in a strange country without letting me know where you were going or that there was even a change in plans?

COLIN: (standing to face JACK) It all worked for the best. You're all home and safe now, with no worries but who's going to order takeout.

JACK: No worries? (laughs) Right now my only concern is you leaving. I'm going to tuck my child in for the night and I don't want to see you here when I return.

JACK storms off up the stairs. JENNIFER stands.

JENNIFER: I'm sorry about that Colin.

COLIN: No, he's right. I let all of you down - left you open to danger -

JENNIFER: (walking him to the door) It's just that - well Jack is having a rough time right now with some things.

COLIN: What things?

JENNIFER: Just some things he has to deal with right now. I'm sure in no time he'll be relaxed and more understanding. I hope you'll afford him that time.

COLIN: Of course Jenny. (opens the door) Good night. Kiss the little one for me.

JENNIFER: I will. We'll see you soon. (closes the door)

CUT TO: COLIN outside

COLIN: Some things to deal with, huh? (BEAT) What problems are you having Jackie boy? And how can your old pal Colin help?

OUT on COLIN

***

SCENE FIVE - INT. - JACK AND JENNIFER'S BEDROOM - NIGHT

They've told ABIGAIL her bedtime story and JENNIFER is in bed as JACK paces nervously.

JENNIFER: (trying to distract him) Abby really loved the story tonight.

JACK: Uh huh.

JENNIFER: I'm thinking of buying her an English-German dictionary and a polka CD tomorrow.

JACK: Sounds nice.

JENNIFER: And then I'm going to see if I can't arrange a marriage between her and Hans Kalterborn, the sweet little German boy we met in Paris. I know he's fifteen, but seven years is nothing in the grand scheme of things.

JACK: Great.

JENNIFER: Jack Deveraux! Are you even listening to me?

JACK: (stops pacing. Looks up at her and then goes over to the bed) Yes, you're buying the child a bunch of German things including a husband. I was listening.

JENNIFER: Uh! And you don't even care?

JACK: Nonsense. I care, but we've been ma - (takes her hand) we've been together long enough for me to know when you're serious and when you're trying to distract me.

JENNIFER: (reluctantly giving in) True.

JACK: (settling on his side of the bed) Besides I know for a fact that you have no intention of being a grandmother before you're sixty, so I know you won't be looking for a husband for Abigail for another fifteen (a jab in his side) Ooof! Thirty ... err ... forty, I meant forty years.

JENNIFER: (smiling) That's better.

JENNIFER is looking at JACK expectantly

JACK: (looking at her - teasing) What? What?

JENNIFER raises an eyebrow

JACK: Oh, perhaps this is what you're eagerly anticipating? (he leans down and gently kisses her forehead and then her lips) Am I forgiven?

JENNIFER: Hmm ... (smiles wickedly) On one condition.

JACK: (inches away from her face - very intrigued) Oh really. What did you have in mind?

JACK begins kissing her neck

JENNIFER: (obviously enjoying this but staying focused) That we discuss this problem rationally, rather than you continuing to brood.

JACK pulls his head back to look at her. There is a determined look about her.

OUT on JACK'S surprise

***

SCENE SIX - IN PROGRESS.

JACK: Brood?

JENNIFER: Yes brood.

JACK: (putting some distance between them) I don't brood Jennifer. I may be solemn and on occasion I might be thinking pensively, but I do not brood.

JENNIFER: (crossing her arms) Then what do you call what you were doing earlier, pacing about the room with a perma-scowl on your face?

JACK: That (looks at her) that was, I was - (dejectedly) Okay so I was brooding.

JENNIFER: (smiles triumphantly) So are you going to talk about it with me or not?

JACK: Talk about what?

JENNIFER: Try again Jack. Do you think for a second that I'm going to let you out of this that easily? Uh uh. So spill. What exactly is your problem with Colin?

OUT on JENNIFER

***

SCENE SEVEN - IN PROGRESS

JACK opens his mouth to answer her, but can't seem to find the words so he closes his mouth again.

JENNIFER: (staring at him, her head tilted to the side) Well, I'm waiting.

JACK: I'm thinking. (she rolls her eyes and starts to get up from the bed) Okay, okay, please stay.

JENNIFER: Are you going to talk or joke with me?

JACK: Talk, I promise. (nods his head and smiles) Talking is what I do best after all.

JENNIFER: (sits Indian style facing him) That's debatable.

JACK: (smirks) Why, thank you. (BEAT) Okay don't you find it the least bit odd Jennifer that Colin is here?

JENNIFER: Well of course I find it strange Jack, but what good does it do us to be nasty to him?

JACK: What are you saying?

JENNIFER: I'm saying if we want to figure out what Colin is doing here, we have to have him comfortable with us. If you're bearing down on him every time you see him, he's going to be on his guard with us. (smiles)

JACK: So we give him enough rope -

JENNIFER: And he hangs himself with it.

JACK: (looking at her proudly) My God, I've finally corrupted your sweet mind. (grabs her face and kisses her)

JENNIFER: (laughing) It was never that sweet.

JACK: (calming) Okay so we - oh no. (BEAT) How do I make up for my reaction to him tonight?

JENNIFER: No problem. I told him you're a little stressed and just needed to calm down a bit. I'm pretty sure he bought it. (a long pause) Do you think Colin is involved in the threats?

JACK: (sighs) I don't want to think that Jennifer. I want to think he's our friend, that we're wrong. But there's just too much here that isn't adding up right.

JENNIFER: (holding JACK'S hand and thinking out loud) Or that adds up to something we're not ready to face yet.

JACK: (noticing her worry. He leans over and turns off his bedside lamp and then reaches over and does the same on JENNIFER'S side of the bed) Come here (He pulls her close to him) I don't want you to worry about this.

JENNIFER: How can I not worry?

JACK: I know. (kisses her forehead gently) I know you will worry, but I promised you that I'd take care of everything.

JENNIFER: Yeah, well someone has to take care of you.

JACK: Are you implying that I can't take care of myself?

JENNIFER looks up at him as though his question should sound ridiculous even to him.

JACK: (CONT.) Okay, I'm big enough to be able to admit when you're ri - when you're ri -

JENNIFER: Uh huh. Big enough are ya?

JACK: I guess you'll just have to take my word for it.

JENNIFER: (smiling) At least I will tonight. (BEAT) Good night Jack.

JACK leans over and kisses her and she settles in closer to him as he leans back on the pillow.

JACK: Pleasant dreams Jennifer.

OUT on a pensive JACK

***

SCENE EIGHT - INT. - HOTEL ROOM - NIGHT

COLIN is on the phone - ONE WAY

COLIN: No worries here. Deveraux came home earlier than I thought he would, but it all worked out fine. (BEAT) I know it was a bit of a risk for me to take care of this myself, but it has to be done. (BEAT) No you just stay there. I will let you know when we're making our next move.

COLIN hangs up the phone

COLIN: In the meantime, I have to figure out what Deveraux is up to exactly.

OUT on COLIN

 

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

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