Gretchen: (sniffing) Oh, the smell of good coffee, I've missed you so. The wonderful aroma is just been gone from my life for way too long.
Joey: Pacey, promise me that if we end up going to different colleges, that you'll think of me the same way.
Pacey: (kisses her on the cheek) Will do.
They get to the door and are greeted by Kent Harding, Cheryl's father.
Kent: Welcome to the Coffee Cup. Nice to see two lovely people like yourselves finally finding each other. (to Joey) It's a shame that the fire had to ruin the Icehouse.
Joey: Well, except for my father ending up in prison, it's had a silver lining.
Kent: Yes, I hear business is booming at your sister's Bed and Breakfast. (looks at Gretchen) I don't believe I've met this beautiful woman before.
Joey: Oh sorry, Kent Harding, Gretchen Witter.
Kent: Pacey's older sister Gretchen?
Gretchen: The one and only. I have to say I love the fact you've opened this place. This town really needed it.
Kent: You certainly sound more pleased than the owner of the deli down the street. (looks at her again) Gretchen Witter, well, I be damned. Come in, come in. Let me sit you guys at our finest table.
Cheryl: (from behind) You mean the one with the roses and the caviar. (everyone turns around) Hi, you guys.
Kent: It's called kindness, Cher. Why don't you mind the door for a while so I can do some more schmoozing?
Cheryl shrugs and turns towards the entrance.
Dawson, Mitch, and Gail outside the Coffee Cup a few minutes later.
Gail: Why are you making this seem like a death sentence?
Dawson: It's not that bad, I guess.
Mitch: I like the way it's decorated. The slightly tinted windows set a unique mood.
Dawson: That is not what I meant. It looks like a decent enough place.
Cheryl: Welcome to the Coffee Cup.
Dawson is startled by the sound of Cheryl's voice.
Cheryl: You're Gail Leery, right? Let me just say that that was some Christmas party you threw the other day.
Gail: Why thank you very much. I don't remember seeing you there.
Cheryl: Well, (looking right at Dawson) I only stayed for a couple of minutes. Just had to talk to your son about something. Could sort of say I crashed it as quietly as possible.
Gail: Don't worry about it. I'll see to it that you and your parents are invited to the next party we throw.
Cheryl: I'm sure my dad would love it. He needs to find some people to associate with. You know, for the business and everything. (pauses, then speaks in a lower tone) Actually, ever since the divorce, he's been trying to act happy and everything but he needs something more than just this cafe in his life. Pretty much after the fire, he started to delve all his energy into this place.
Gail: I hope it works out for him. And I don't just mean the business.
Cheryl: I'm so sorry, leaving you guys outside. Come on in, I'll lead you to our finest table.
As they are walking to the table, they cross paths with Kent. Mitch gives the guy a knowing nod, unseen by Kent.
Kent: (to Cheryl) I see you have some of that Harding charm working tonight.
Cheryl rolls her eyes.
Scene: The "finest table" where Joey, Pacey, and Gretchen were led to.
Pacey: Finest table? Looks just like any other table to me.
Joey: Let me tell you something. I say that to people at the country club and they eat it up. Some feel honored and feel obliged to give a bigger tip later. This tip also works for booking rooms.
Gretchen: Sounds sort of like the pick-up lines guys use.
Joey: Except these are easier to believe and certainly less insulting to one's intelligence.
Gretchen: (slightly disappointed) So you don't think he was flirting with me?
Joey: Doubtful. I bet you he'll say the same thing to the next person that walks in.
Scene: Outside Coffee Cup, where Jen is waiting outside.
Jack: So you finally came out of the house?
Jen: Oh, hi.
Jack: You hide your enthusiasm well. Are you still avoiding me? Because if you are, I'll let you get back to doing that.
Jen: (grabs onto his shirt sleeve) No, no, it's fine. I can afford to be a little receptive. Just the other day kind of weirded me out.
Jack: Look, um, you're not fantasizing about us being together right now or anything. So, it's a rather amusing moment and that's it, right?
Jen: Of course.
Jack: So, you're speaking to me again?
Jen nodded.
Cheryl: Welcome to the Coffee Cup. Jen, I'm so glad you came. Thought I was going out to the wolves with this whole Dawson thing.
Jen: No, the mere mention of the word coffee told me I should be here.
Jack: Besides, since we both went through the trouble of talking to Dawson for you, we figured our best reward would be to come here. At least get the taste out of our mouths.
Jen pokes him.
Jack: Sorry, force of habit.
Cheryl: (mutters) I already figured out people think that way about him. (in chipper voice) Come on in, I'll lead you to our finest table.
The three of them walk in the cafe.
Jen: What's so special about it?
Cheryl: (looks at Ryan waiting on Leery table and grins) Well, just that your friends are sitting there. And, of course, the services of our world-class waiter.
Scene: The "finest table" the Leerys are sitting at.
Ryan: May I take your order?
Gail: Sure, a cappucino for me.
Mitch: Same here.
Dawson: (glares at him) So what's so special about this opening?
Ryan: Well, later on, there will be a band. A cake in honor of the host, though he doesn't know that yet.
Dawson: Uh uh.
Ryan: Your order?
Dawson: Just a plain coffee. (as Ryan writes it down) We need to talk.
Ryan: I really have a lot of tables to take care of.
Dawson: (gets up) Now. (drags him away from the table)
Ryan: What's your problem with the service?
Dawson: Don't try that game. I know about your little conversation with Jack earlier. Trying to fix me up with your friend.
Ryan: Oh that. What's the big deal? You came to the opening. You don't have to deal with her if you don't want to.
Dawson: That is not the point. I don't appreciate this whole game you have going.
Ryan: What game?
Dawson: The whole 'I'm-helping-my-best-friend-be-happy-though-I'd rather-have-her-myself' act.
Ryan: Is that the situation with Pacey and Joey?
Dawson: Yes, er no, (esasperated) That's what's happening between you and Cheryl.
Ryan: It is? (shakes his head) I'll never understand how Cheryl can have such poor judgment in guys.
Dawson: See, that disparaging remark isn't meant for me, it's meant for any "other guys" in your relationship.
Ryan: (sarcastically) If that's what you want to believe, then, sure, I'll play along with this premise. So, since you've obviously figured out what I'm up to, what would you like me to do to sabotage this? Well, what do you want to happen?
Dawson: I want it to be over.
Ryan: So you can resume your attention to Joey? That's really pathetic. What is so wrong with talking to another girl. I bet you'd find her to be quite interesting. Of course, by that time, I hope Cheryl would come back to her senses and realize you weren't worth the trouble.
Scene: The "finest table" with the gang where Ryan is there, taking their order.
Joey: So, what'd Dawson say?
Ryan: Well, basically that he's not interested.
Joey, Pacey: Damn.
Ryan: I'm pretty sure this is not the end of the story.
Gretchen: (drolly) You two sounded so pleased.
Joey: Well, I was liking the idea of Cheryl and him.
Gretchen: For personal reasons?
Joey: Some, but not entirely. I think it's a good change of pace that a girl would be interested in him. I like seeing him squirm after the way he's talk about me and other recent events.
Gretchen: Yeah, I know way too well about that.
Ryan: (writing down their orders) Dawson is just plain annoying. I hope this whole situation ends soon because it is hard to be civil to him when you really want to shout in his face that there is a real world out there. (walks away)
Jen: (to Joey) That was kind of cruel.
Joey: I'm sorry but considering the girl kind of stalked me years ago, I feel this is a justifiable punishment.
Jen: She could have changed, you know. I mean, her friend seems kind of cool.
Jack: I'm glad you said that because I think he's interested in you.
Jen: What are you talking about? He did absolutely nothing.
Jack: Except avoid looking at your direction when you ordered. He was kind of hinting about it to me earlier. It's not like the way Cheryl's into Dawson, but you really need a date.
Jen: I hope you're right. Let's see how the night goes.
Scene: As Dawson is walking back to the table, he collides right into Cheryl, who was hurrying to get back to the front door.
Cheryl: Sorry. (notices it's Dawson) Or maybe not.
Dawson: Hi.
Cheryl: If somehow, this got construed as 'I'll invite you to the opening as a way to trick you into a date', well forget it, I'm too busy. When things cool down, we'll see.
Dawson: (eyes wander) Okay, sure.
Cheryl: I hope what happened at the party wasn't going too far. I just got kind of desperate and blew the whole situation about a hundred times larger than it really is.
Dawson: (relaxes) I hope your father's business does well. Sounded like he could use some good fortune in his life.
Cheryl: That's the truth.
Kent: (in distance) Help needed up here.
Cheryl: Sorry, I'd better get back to work.
Scene: The "finest table" which gains a rude intruder in one Dawson Leery.
Dawson: (standing in front of table) Okay, who's playing matchmaker here?
In response, all five look at anything but him.
Dawson: Figures. I knew somebody here was working with Ryan Farrell. I just am surprised it's all of you.
Pacey: Look, man. It's just that she seems sweet and it'd be nice to at least find out about her.
Dawson: (shot back) So you're not bothered?
Pacey: God, Dawson, why does every thing I do have to have a motive involving Joey? Is it so wrong to wish for my friend to be happy?
Gretchen: (gesturing to Ryan) Besides, the character witness seems to approve.
Dawson: I really don't think so. He seems to think she can find someone better. You know, like himself.
Jen: I really don't think that's the case. You might be surprised as to his taste.
Dawson: (looks at Jen, confused, then shakes his head) I don't know. I think he's more of an obstacle than a matchmaker.
Pacey: Enough of an obstacle to actually try to overcome it.
Dawson: Trust me, he has nothing to do with if anything happens between us.
Scene: Ryan is trying to carry a tray of food when Cheryl stops him.
Cheryl: So what do you know?
Ryan: (notices a cup wobbling on the tray) Can you talk to me in a second? I don't think your dad would want this on the floor. (walks over to table and begins serving them) You realize that you guys are getting a real bargain here.
Cheryl: I know, and we both appreciate you filling in for George. (waits until he serves the last cup on the tray, then drags him to the kitchen) Okay, I get the feeling that you and Dawson aren't getting along.
Ryan: Just because you're interested doesn't mean suddenly me and him are all chummy. We weren't enemies before, but we weren't really friends either.
Cheryl: You can't stand that I like him, can you Farrell?
Ryan: You already know my answer to that. I'm being as kind as I possibly can be to the guy and it's exhausting.
Cheryl: (sighs) I'm not getting any information. Okay, a better topic. What about you and Jen?
Ryan: Jen is a girl I like, kind of. Don't blow this into the same magnitude as your interest in Dawson, okay.
Cheryl: So why not ask her out? It's not as if she's currently attached to anyone. Hell, there's been nobody since that freshman Henry Parker.
Ryan: Let's just say I think I need her friend's approval.
Cheryl: So the truth comes out. That's why you went to talk to Jack about me and Dawson. Come on, he doesn't care who she dates. Just because you judge every guy I talk to doesn't mean all opposite-sex best friends do.
Ryan: Is this Dawson discussion over? Because (looking over Cheryl's shoulder) it's getting quite crowded. (tries to walk away but Cheryl grabs his shirt sleeve)
Cheryl: I promise I will let up on this if you do something, anything about Jen Lindley.
Ryan: (sighs) You are such a spoiled brat, you know that, princess.
Cheryl: (smiles) I'll take that as a yes. You may go now, meeger servant.
Ryan: You are so lucky you're the boss' daughter or else I'd have to quit this job right now. (walks away)
Scene: At Leery table. Cheryl pops up.
Cheryl: How do you like this place so far?
Gail: Your father has done a very good job.
Cheryl: (breathes sigh of relief) He'll be glad to hear that. He's been so nervous about if his first business venture will flop out of the gate.
Gail: I'd guess that, looking around, he has nothing to worry about.
Cheryl: He needs something to work out. He inherited some money when my uncle passed away about a year ago, actually, come to think of it, shortly after the fire. My uncle had a cafe like this in Boston and my dad thought it'd be a good idea to bring it to a small town like this.
Gail: He's kind of on edge?
Cheryl: Quite. One of the cooks and our main waiter came down with a stomach flu, so that didn't exactly ease his concerns. Which reminds me, I noticed Ryan is waiting on this area. Whatever you do, don't say a word to my dad if he screws up orders. Tell me and I'll torture him about it.
Mitch: No problem. Last thing he needs is a poor review based on last-minute help.
Cheryl: I'm trying to set it up so that he's only serving tables of locals, if possible. Unfortunately, he somehow also got Mr. Brooks' table.
Dawson tried unsuccessfully to suppress a laugh.
Dawson: How did you ever manage to get him to come?
Cheryl: Apparently, the man gained a taste for the good stuff when he used to work in California. Well, my dad and I lived in California years ago so we got into reminiscing about the different environment. Finally got him interested enough to check it out.
Dawson: (amazed)You had a civil conversation with him?
Cheryl: (scoffs) You make it sound like the guy is unapproachable.
Dawson: Well, there have been a couple of decent talks, followed immediately by the usual gruff manner. But it took months of work just to get that far.
Cheryl: Well, I guess I lucked out with that one. The Harding charm strikes at mysterious times.
Dawson: I guess it does exist.
Cheryl: (realizing what Dawson is implying) I have to get back to this survey thing.
Cheryl turns around and walks away from the table.
Cheryl: (out of Dawson's earshot) Harding charm does work at mysterious times.
Scene: At the "finest table". Cheryl pops up.
Cheryl: So, what do you think of the Coffee Cup?
Jen: (with a cookie in her mouth) Your father is a genius. This is exactly what Capeside needed.
Pacey: (muttering) I think we may soon hear her saying 'Hi, I'm Jen and I'm a coffee addict.
Gretchen: And I'll be joining her at the meeting.
Cheryl: Loving this feedback so far.
Joey: Cheryl, can you settle a bet between Gretchen and me? Was your father flirting with her when we came in?
Cheryl: (laughs) I'm sorry to disappoint you but that was all in the name of business. He's really schmoozing the people he doesn't know. Guess you got fooled by the Harding charm.
Gretchen hands Joey a five dollar bill.
Gretchen: Damn.
Jack: Harding charm?
Cheryl: My dad and I have this great ability of sounding sincere to people at restaurants. Makes them feel good. Ask Joey.
Joey: (mumbling) I recall.
Pacey: (to Joey) Is it anything like the Witter charm?
Joey: No because the Harding charm is successful. (kisses him)
Pacey: So it only works on you?
Joey: Who said it was working?
Pacey acts annoyed while Joey grins.
Cheryl: Actually, I inadvertantly got Dawson's attention with it as well.
Gretchen: Oh my god, he's slipping. He's actually noticing another person in the world.
Cheryl: Well, I'm sorry he found out that way. He'll probably expect me to act like that all the time.
Pacey: I doubt it. You got him to wake up. Now that you've got his attention, I don't think you'll have to go through some routine to keep him.
Cheryl: I hope so. So, (trying to sound casual) How's the service been?
Joey: Other than getting a hazelnut coffee by mistake, pretty good. Turns out I like it a lot.
Gretchen: And I'm not real sure where these cookies were supposed to go, but it wasn't here. (grabbing a cookie) Not exactly a problem, either.
Cheryl: That's good, I guess. I figured he'd screw up a little, but, so far, no serious problem.
As she says this, however, she hears Mr. Brooks' gruff voice over the crowd.
Mr. Brooks: How can anyone expect this place to survive when incompetent kids can't get a simple order straight?
Cheryl: See, this is a situation where it's a great gift to have. I'll see you later. Hope you have a good time.
Cheryl walks over to Mr. Brooks table, where, sure enough, he is complaining.
Mr. Brooks: I didn't order this monstrosity you call a cappuccino.
Ryan: I'm sorry, I'll go fix it right away.
Mr. Brooks: Do you even remember what I did order?
Ryan: (looking through a pile of receipts) Yes, um, you ordered a regular coffee, black.
Mr. Brooks: Well, I'm glad I stopped you because you are reading the wrong order. I ordered a tea, with skim milk.
Cheryl: I'm sorry, Mr. Brooks, is there a problem?
Mr. Brooks: Yes, there is a problem. Your father hired utter failures as employees.
Cheryl: I'm sorry your experience at the Coffee Cup has been unpleasant. There are a couple of wrinkles my father has to work out. This is his first venture into a restaurant, you know, and I hope you don't judge this place based on opening night jitters.
Mr. Brooks: (warming slightly) That is true. There is some potential here. (back to gruff tone) I'd say the food is good but I haven't had my order yet.
Ryan: Sorry about that.
Cheryl: You said you ordered a tea with skim milk, correct? Well, I'll personally get your order. (she and Ryan begin to walk away)
Mr. Brooks: And tell your father to be more careful about who he employs here. Not all kids are as committed to good service as his daughter. Firing this slacker (pointing to Ryan) would be a start in the right direction.
Cheryl: Management will take that under advisement. (notices Ryan glaring at him) Come on, don't let him ruin an otherwise positive evening.
When Cheryl and Ryan turn around, they are surprised to discover that Dawson had been watching them.
Scene: The "finest table", where they were also watching the situation.
Gretchen: Did you see the look Dawson gave her when she cooled Mr. Brooks off? Man, that was classic.
Joey: I think I'm off the hook for a while. (giddily) This is so exciting.
Pacey: Calm down, Potter.
Joey: She saw his expression too. I could tell.
Pacey: He's just in awe of her softening up... (reconsiders) I guess I'm happy for you too.
Scene: Leery table. Gail follows Dawson's gaze at Cheryl.
Gail: I thought there was something more starting between you two.
Dawson: (shakes back into reality) No, of course not. I was just in awe of her softening up.. (reconsiders) Maybe you're right.
Gail: Well, that's quite good. She seems like a sweet enough girl.
Scene: Kitchen. Cheryl is making Mr. Brooks' tea while Ryan is getting together another order.
Cheryl: I did not just imagine what just happened.
Ryan: (sarcastically) Congratulations. Mission accomplished.
Cheryl: What the hell is that supposed to mean?
Ryan: It means that you'll get his interest, only to decide he's not exciting enough. And, trust me, you've got the attention of the pinacle of dull.
Cheryl: Stop that! I'm sorry we can't all be too damn repressed to even ask a girl on a date.
Ryan: Why does everything I say about you and Dawson get turned around into me and Jen?
Cheryl: That's the problem, there is no you and Jen! If there was a you and Jen, then you wouldn't have all this time to find fault with this Dawson thing. (puts tea on tray) Who'd have thought that you screwing up an order would land me closer to my destination.
Ryan: (sarcastically) Yeah, that's exactly what I had in mind when the old man was lashing out at me. 'Why, this is a great opportunity to have princess show off in front of her true love'.
Cheryl: On second thought, I hope Jen rejects you. You'd deserve it, Grinch. (walks out of kitchen)
Scene: Later in the night. The band has started to play. Switch to "finest table"
Pacey: (pointing to entertainment) This is quite interesting.
Jen: I never thought I'd hear a reggae/rock band covering 'Bye Bye Bye' without me wanting to laugh hysterically.
Ryan: (interrupting) You should hear their version of Madonna's 'Music'. Quite a treat.
Jen: (turns around) Oh, hey. Do you know how they found this band?
Ryan: Mr. Harding went to a coffeehouse in Boston where they were playing and barely getting paid. Thought he'd hire them to work a couple of times here. They take requests, so you don't have to suffer with N Sync all night.
Joey: That's a relief.
Jen: How's your night been?
Ryan: Tiring. You are witnessing the first and last day of Ryan Farrell the waiter.
Jen: You weren't that bad. It is quite difficult to please Mr. Brooks, even if you'd gotten the order right the first time.
Dawson: (cuts in) She is right about that. (pulls up a chair) But it was cool how Cheryl handled the situation.
Ryan: (rolls his eyes, then turns to Dawson) Do I detect a change of heart here?
Dawson: Not entirely, but I'm open to the suggestion. (dismissively) Anyway, it was fun watching Mr. Brooks go on about you.
Ryan: (half-jokingly) That's what I am. A clown meant to entertain you. Now I have to get going to continue the circus act. Don't want to keep table 5 from the entertainment. (walks away)
Jack gets up.
Joey: Is this music getting too much for you.
Jack: No, just got to walk around. I'll be right back. (walks away)
Gretchen: (to Joey) Okay, another bet. A buck says that Jack's talking to Ryan about Jen.
Jen: Gretchen!
Joey: Sorry, we'd be on the same side of the bet.
Jen: Joey!
Gretchen: Come on, if Dawson hadn't shown up, you two would've continued this whole 'mindless-chatter-to-avoid-the-truth' conversation.
Joey: Bet over.
Scene: By the kitchen door. Jack stops Ryan.
Jack: I have a suggestion for you.
Ryan: What?
Jack: Since it is obvious you want to ask Jen out but keep ducking out of it, why don't you request a song to her?
Ryan: And what, sing it on the stage? I didn't suddenly get blond hair, a wide-eyed expression and lose two years on my life, did I?
Jack: (chuckles) Oh, you know about Henry? That's all ancient history.
Ryan: Who doesn't know about his grand acts of affection in this school? It was the most amusing thing happening.
Jack: You are aware that Jen wasn't really into that. She would've prefered him keeping a lower profile.
Ryan: I've noticed that this year. That doesn't interest her.
Jack: She prefers smaller gestures. A simple song or saying that those cookies you inadvertantly brought us were a gift from you to her. You know, something like that.
Scene: Back to "finest table". Unfortunately, Dawson's still sitting there.
Dawson: So, wait a second. He's interested in you?
Jen: That's what these two think. (pointing to Gretchen and Joey)
Joey: And Jack.
Pacey: I'm edging towards that thought myself.
Dawson: I actually sort of side with Jen on this one. I don't quite see it either. On the other hand, I do encourage it. Anything to get him out of my face.
Jen: You're not going to defend me?
Dawson: Not this time. What's wrong with a little date?
Jen: Oh no you don't. This is revenge for me begging you to come in the first place.
Dawson: No, actually, this is a thank you. You forced me to accept that there were people besides Jo, now it's your turn to accept that there are people besides Henry.
Jen: I know that.
Dawson: You do?
Pacey: He's right. By my count, there have been four guys you've been willing to talk to this year: me, him, Jack, and Drue Valentine, who I'm sure you could've done without. I don't see much of a romantic scenario with any of them. So, at least find out about the new guy in this exclusive club.
Jen: Fine. Just stop bugging me about it.
Scene: Mr. Brooks' table, where Cheryl is talking to him. Ryan is cleaning off the next table over.
Cheryl: I hope this coupon for a free drink on your next visit can help ease your concerns about the Coffee Cup.
Mr. Brooks: Well, this is good tea. Tell me, is your father keeping that imbecile of a waiter? Because I don't know if I'd want to return if I have to order three times. (Ryan looks up, then resumes clearing the table but is now listening to the conversation)
Cheryl: He is only here as a last minute replacement.
Mr. Brooks: That's good. Because someone like him could kill any prospects for this business.
Cheryl: I guess so. Well, like I said, he's filling in so it shouldn't be an issue. I'm glad we got this cleared up.
When Cheryl turns around, she spots Dawson at the "finest table" gesturing in her general direction. She gives a quick smile and is kind of in a fantasy world when she walks away. Unfortunately, she runs smack dab into...
Ryan: Watch it, Cher.
But it is too late. She crashes into him holding a tray of empty dishes. Well, almost empty. One of the coffee cups was full (though not hot) and it spills right on Ryan's shirt as the other cups crash onto the floor. Of course, it catches the attention of everyone else in the cafe.
Kent: (from the entrance, comes racing over) What broke? (notices the mess on the floor, which Ryan and Cheryl are scurrying to clean up quickly) Oh, sweetie, I see some of the fragments scraped against your arm. (holds out his hand, which Cheryl accepts) Let me clean that off for you.
They walk away, leaving Ryan to clean up the mess, trying not to react to the situation.
Scene: The "finest table".
Pacey: I don't believe this.
Gretchen: Mr. Harding's going to flip out.
Joey: Dishes break. That happens anywhere. How else do you think Jack lasted at the Icehouse.
Jack: Hey! (reconsiders) I believe I was dating the waitress at the time.
Gretchen: (ignoring Jack)That's true but it is the first night.
Jen: And Ryan's been friends with Cheryl for a long time. So I'd think that her dad would be a little edgy but let it go based on the circumstances.
Scene: Kitchen. Kent is tending to Cheryl's arm, in which some of the scrapes are starting to bleed.
Kent: How's that feel?
Cheryl: Dad, I'll be fine.
Kent: I had this bad feeling about Ryan working here. I kept telling myself that it was under control but I was wrong. I was wrong.
Cheryl: Come on. He bailed us out of a worse possibility. Being understaffed. Remember that? It was just a little incident. Can't say it's exactly his fault anyway.
Kent: It was hardly a little incident. It was a catastrophe.
Cheryl: You are blowing this way out of proportion. Because of one thing?
Kent: Do you really think I have no clue what happened with Brooks? I saw the coupon in your hand. He's right, the guy's a real slacker.
Ryan: (interrupting) You know, Mr Harding, you don't have to worry about this any longer. Wouldn't want to drag down your precious daughter. I quit. (slams the tray with the fragments on the counter, throws the receipts on top of it, then walks out)
Cheryl: Dad! How could you?
Kent: Don't bother.
Cheryl: I know this business is a big deal, but at what cost? Damn. (gets up, aiming to chase after him)
Kent: Can you at least deal with this later? You and I are going to have to fix this mess. Ryan can wait.
Cheryl: (stops dejectedly, turns around and picks up the receipts from the pile) Fine.
Scene: The "finest table" where Jack spots Ryan storming out of the cafe, pushing through people at the entrance in the process.
Jack: Hey Jen, looks like your prince gave up.
Jen: Cut it out.
Jack: Well, explain to me why Cheryl's standing by the door, acting as though the previous crash never occured. He probably quit.
Jen: (glares at him) I get it, I get it. (gets up and goes out the entrance)
Scene: Cheryl is taking a break, sitting at a table in the far corner. Dawson approaches her.
Dawson: Do you mind if I join you?
Cheryl: (looks up) Go ahead.
Dawson: (notices distracted look on her face) Is something wrong?
Cheryl: This has just been one of those evenings that I'm excited yet at the same time would rather forget.
Dawson: What happened?
Cheryl: Ryan overheard my father insulting him.
Dawson: (confused) That doesn't seem like a big deal.
Cheryl: It is when you realize that my dad is more of a father than his will ever be. Guy seems to cheat on his mother every couple of months. Has moved out of the house on several occasions.
Dawson: I see the problem. Why doesn't his mom leave him?
Cheryl: Because she cheats on him too. Ryan says she's been seeing this one guy on and off for a couple of years. On a couple of occasions, they've started to go through divorce proceedings but inevitably, they kiss and make up.
Dawson: That is one screwed-up family.
Cheryl: Tell me about it. At least my parents' marriage ended for more basic reasons - they just simply grew apart. You'd think his family would've gotten the hint, but no dice.
Dawson: Well, my parents realized that one affair was enough. They've patched up any problems they've had. I don't see it becoming a cycle like Ryan's.
Cheryl: That's right, your parents divorced, then remarried. You're right, they seem to have resolved their differences.
Dawson: Do you think Ryan will get past what your father said?
Cheryl: I certainly hope so. But I know where my dad's coming from when he made the remark. I mean, Ryan is a slacker. And a klutz. And completely annoying half the time. It's like he knows that Ryan is nothing but trouble but he obliges because we've been friends for so long he's practically a part of the family.
Dawson: Like a brother or something.
Cheryl: Something like that. Except lately, he's been acting as though I'm an idiot for associating with other people.
Dawson: You mean as in the way he talked to me?
Cheryl: Yeah. You wouldn't want to know what he said.
Dawson: I have a pretty good idea. (stops) You know, this is a different person than the one I was talking to earlier.
Cheryl: In a good way?
Dawson: Well, yes, I'd say so.
Cheryl: The act gets old sometimes, you know. (looks at watch) I'm really sorry about this but I have to get back to work. (puts smile on her face) We're slightly understaffed right now but I'll be with you shortly.
Dawson: Do you want to meet this weekend. Without the customers as a distraction?
Cheryl: That sounds like a wonderful idea. Could go to a movie or something. (gets up to leave)
Dawson: (chuckles) You know me well.
Scene: Jen is wandering around town.
Jen: (muttering) Why on earth am I doing this? Why would I be wandering around town for a guy I barely know? This is quite pathetic. I'm heading back.
She finds herself in front of the Harding house.
Jen: You know, I might be reading this situation completely wrong, but I think Dawson was right the first time. Cheryl's the girl he wants. Wait a second, what am I saying, that Dawson understands stuff like this? (shakes her head) Back to reality.
She spots Ryan sitting under a tree on the side of the house and walks over to him.
Ryan: (glares up at her) What are you doing here?
Jen: I have no idea. It looked like you needed someone on your side.
Ryan: (snidely) Well, it sure wasn't going to be Mr. Brooks.
Jen: (gives a small grin) Are you telling me that his little tirade is the reason you left?
Ryan: (shakes his head) Wasn't intending on having that grump think he won. Of course, he did, so that didn't work.
Jen: Mr. Harding fired you?
Ryan: No, he'd never do that. But I know he wanted to so I quit and saved him the trouble of trying to keep his foot out of his mouth.
Jen: I guess I don't understand.
Ryan: Kent Harding is known for not saying what he thinks of the situation.
Jen: I'm surprised Cheryl didn't follow you out the door.
Ryan: I really shouldn't have left. They really needed the help. Besides, she wouldn't want to wreck her perfect snowjob on Dawson Leery, now would she?
Jen: What the hell are you talking about?
Ryan: Most of the reason that Dawson is suddenly falling for her is a result of her putting on a pretty face and make everyone, or at least every adult, love her enough to want to adopt her. Or at least, enough to want to change their own children.
Jen: That sounds like a rather cruel assessment.
Ryan: When she isn't acting all cute and charming, she can be really a wonderful person. That is the person I became friends with. Unfortunately, this eager-to-please chick is trying to take over and it's completely irritating.
Jen: (looking around) If that's the case, why are you in front of her house?
Ryan: Because I get stuck between these two people. I know when she returns, it will be the cool version that will try to talk me out of deserting her. Also, I really didn't want to find out which of my parents has taken over the house tonight.
Jen: Why, are they like, really strict or something?
Ryan: No but that's because they are so wrapped up in their own little dramas that they barely acknowledge my existence. I know that one of them is entertaining at the house, just don't really know or care to discover the details. (looks away from Jen and toward the road)
Jen looks confused but decides not to press the issue.
Jen: You really want to head back, don't you? Come on, (holds out her hand) you're right, Brooks shouldn't win this battle.
Ryan gives a small smile then gets up from the ground.
Ryan: I can't go right now.
Jen: And I thought I could score a small victory.
Ryan: So quick to make a verdict but you forgot one little thing. (points to his shirt, where the coffee has set in)
Jen: Fair enough. Okay, you're heading to my house, first, then back to the party.
Scene: The remains of the "finest table", which is Pacey, Joey, Gretchen and Jack. They have noticed Dawson and Cheryl parting from the table in the back.
Gretchen: You three are very good at the game of matchmaker, you know that?
Joey: Well, it helps when you're already matched up with your Mr. Right. (kisses Pacey on the cheek)
Jack: (shakes his head) I'm not so sure any of us can take much credit for this.
Joey: How modest. You know that Jen wouldn't have given Ryan a second look if it wasn't for your persistance. Same goes for Dawson finally letting up on Cheryl.
Gretchen: Makes me really wish I had someone for Christmas.
Jack: (nods) Well, there's still eleven shopping days til then. That reminds me, have to talk to Jen about the holidays. My dad is visiting Andie in Italy for a week so I'm stuck out here.
Joey: (off-handedly)The B&B has room if you need it.
Jack: I hope I don't have to hold you to that offer.
Scene: Outside Jen's house.
Jen: You wait out here. Let me first see if Grams is up.
Ryan: Okay.
Jen walks into the house to find a note in the kitchen.
Jennifer
Your Aunt Nancy had a stroke and is in the hospital. I'll be in Connecticut for a couple of days. I'll call you in the morning.
Grams
Jen: That's a shame. Or is that a good thing? (walks to the door and waves Ryan in)
Ryan: (whispers) So the coast is clear?
Jen: You don't have to whisper. She's visiting a sick relative.
Ryan: Oh, I'm sorry to hear that.
Jen: I guess. Let me go get a shirt. (walks upstairs)
Ryan is looking around the kitchen. Jen darts back into the room a few moments later holding a gray sweater.
Ryan: (eyeing the shirt) Is it that common of an occurance for a guy to leave a shirt behind in this house? I mean, It's just you and your grandmother here, correct?
Jen: Oh, Jack had lived here for a while. Just something he left behind.
Ryan: (takes shirt from her) Well, thanks Jen.
Jen: There's a bathroom at the end of the hallway.
Ryan nods and walks in that direction. A few moments later, he returns.
Ryan: I didn't think when this day started I'd end up wearing the clothes of a gay football player. (snickers) Then realize that it isn't that much different from the way I normally dress.
Jen: (pushes him along and grabs his jacket) Come on, let's head back.
Ryan: You know, maybe it can wait until morning after all.
Jen: I knew you'd try to do that to me. You will not succeed. (drags him out the door)
Scene: The Coffee Cup. Cheryl is rolling out a cake to the middle of the cafe. The place has fallen silent.
Kent: Cheryl, what are you doing?
Waiter: This is for you. We the staff of the Coffee Cup got together to do this for you, Kent.
Cook: All I had to do was call in a couple of favors. They are so good to me. (Waiter and Cheryl glare at him)
Kent is speechless as he looks at the cake. The Leerys stand up and begin clapping. People from other tables start to rise to join them.
Ryan and Jen walk in at that moment. Jen notices everyone standing and is confused.
Jen: What happened, did someone get back at Brooks?
Ryan: I don't think so but let's join in the clapping anyway.
(back to center of room)
Kent: (whispering) Cheryl, sweetie, you shouldn't have done this.
Cheryl: I'd like to take the credit but it wasn't my idea or that egomaniac of a cook you hired. It was Ryan's. He convinced the bakery down the block to donate it.
Kent: He didn't do that.
Cheryl: Did that even before George went down with the flu. (she spots Ryan and Jen, points in their direction) Came back for the finale.
Kent looks in the direction she's pointing in. When he finally spots them, he waves them over.
Jen: Is he gesturing towards us?
Ryan: I guess so.
The two walk over to the center. Cheryl sees them and walks over to them.
Cheryl: You are not getting out of this. The whole staff is here.
Ryan: Even those who quit this evening?
Cheryl: Yeah. (whispering) Looks like we both lucked out tonight. (nodding toward Jen)
Ryan: Don't get your hopes up too high. You might hit a bird up in the clouds.
Cheryl: Well, sorry for being happy, meeger servant. (whispering) I'm glad you came back.