NYPD Blue Fanfiction
Lowe's Fanfic
New Beginnings
SCENE 1:
Afternoon. Lobby of building housing the law firm Andy and Connie have retained
in the custody fight. Andy and Connie are waiting for an elevator.
ANDY: (Nervously looking at the elevator floor indicator) Why is this taking so long?
Connie has heard him but does not respond. Andy glances over and notices the worried look on Connie’s face. The elevator arrives and Connie and Andy step on and press the button for their floor.
ANDY: (Reaching for Connie’s hand and squeezing it tightly.) It’s going to be alright.
CONNIE: (Looking at Andy and giving him a forced smile.) We can’t loose her.
The elevator opens and Andy and Connie make their way to their lawyer’s office lobby, where the receptionist ushers them into an office. They take a seat and wait for the attorney to arrive.
CONNIE: Did you bring the paperwork from the union?
ANDY: (Motioning to an envelope he has in his hand.) Got it.
Their lawyer, Lynn Dixon, walks in. Dixon, a seasoned attorney referred to Andy and Connie by ADA Val Hayward, exudes confidence as she enters the room. Dixon was familiar with Andy from her time spent in the District Attorney’s office with Sylvia, before entering private practice.
DIXON: (Taking a seat and glancing over a file on her desk.) Good Afternoon. How are we doing today?
CONNIE: I have to admit, I’m getting a little nervous about tomorrow. (Nervously looking around the room, she is afraid to voice her fears – she would have to hear them aloud.) Have you heard any more from the Collahan’s attorney?
DIXON: Nothing new, they are continuing to proceed with their case and they will be in the courtroom tomorrow. They have delivered all the appropriate documents that the court has requested. (Looking over the file.) I do see that they submitted to a visit by a social worker in their home. But, I don’t see a report on that visit. I should have that by the time we see them in the courtroom. (Picking up a second file.) I have spoken in detail with Detective Russell about the accusations and previous charges filed against Mr. Collahan. She’s been quite helpful, a real asset to our case. Judge Myers is a fair judge. I can’t see him allowing any child to be placed in that environment, particularly when the child is currently in a loving, family environment such as yours.
ANDY: (Placing his arm around the back of Connie’s seat, gently touching her shoulder.) So, we shouldn’t worry. That’s what your saying?
DIXON: Andy, it looks like an easy case to me. But, as you both know, you can never predict the judicial system. (Waiting a beat) Worrying might not be doing us any good, but maybe a little prayer would be in order.
CONNIE: (Trying to control her nervousness.) Is there anything we can do? Anything else to provide, bring to court?
DIXON: I think I have all the information we need, let me just look over some of the details Judge Myers may inquire about. (Paging through the paperwork.) I have the dates of your sister’s death and copies of the files of her charges against her husband, Frank. How long had she been staying with you Connie?
CONNIE: Just a few days. She had just left Frank, but he was persuasive in getting her to meet him, to discuss getting back together. She was going to start over, without him.
ANDY: Frank, he’s not going to be getting out of prison for quite a while….if ever.
DIXON: I have the paperwork from when you brought the baby home, but there is no mention of Andy on it. We can get that amended, to show he was the paternal figure from the start of her life.
CONNIE: Actually, we weren’t living together at the time.
DIXON: Oh, I was under the impression you two had been together for a longer period of time. Andy, when did you move into the home?
ANDY: It was February.
CONNIE: But we’ve been together for, a year, or a little longer. That’s not an issue is it?
DIXON: It shouldn’t be, but knowing Judge Myers, and he is on the conservative side, it could come up as an issue, however, I highly doubt it. He likes the traditional family, the married parents and commitment. (Sensing the nervousness on both Andy and Connie’s part.) But please don’t think this will impair our case. (Closing the case files.) I think we’re ready for tomorrow. You two should go home and relax, don’t worry about the case. (Looking at the clock on the wall.) I’ll see you in the morning.
ANDY: (Standing from his seat.) I brought the information you wanted, you know about the employment history from the department and the union. (Handing the paperwork to Dixon.)
DIXON: Andy, it’s been good to see you again. It’s been too long. I’m looking forward to seeing Theo sometime soon.
ANDY: (His thoughts are elsewhere.) Yeah, it’s been good seeing you again.
CONNIE: (Shaking Dixon’s hand.) Thank you again. We’ll see you tomorrow.
Connie and Andy walk out of the office into the reception area. Andy stops.
CONNIE: What’s wrong?
ANDY: I forgot to mention something to her about the employment history. Wait here; I’ll be right back. (Turning to go back into the office.)
ANDY: Lynn, I wanted to ask you something. (Closing the door behind him. He searches for the right words and the ability to speak them aloud.) You feel pretty positive about the case, right?
DIXON: Yes, Andy, I do.
ANDY: (Looking around the office.) I mean, I don’t think Connie could handle loosing Michelle. If you don’t think it will have a positive outcome, I might want to prepare her for it, you know.
DIXON: (Standing from behind her desk and walking around to meet Andy.) Don’t worry Andy. I don’t foresee any problems.
ANDY: You don’t think the fact that we’re not married will be a problem for the judge, do you?
DIXON: Andy, he is conservative in his approach to family issues, however, his foremost concern will be the care and loving environment for Michelle. And that is with the two of you.
ANDY: The past year has been full of issues for both Connie and myself. It has taken me a while to realize it but I love Connie, she is a very important part of my life. I plan on asking her to marry me, but I was waiting for the custody case to be over. She doesn’t know that.
DIXON: I’m glad you are happy with your life and with Connie. I hope you don’t mind me saying this, but I am sure that is what Sylvia would have wanted for both you and for Theo. She would not want you to mourn her for the rest of your lives…she would want you to be happy and get on with your life. (Placing her hand on Andy’s shoulder.) And I can see that you and Connie are very happy.
ANDY: I don’t want to insult Sylvia’s memory. I love her, I always will, I still think about her every day. She gave me Theo and I see some of Sylvia in him every day. But Theo doesn’t remember her; he was too young when she was taken from us.
DIXON: Things happen to us for a reason. We don’t always understand why they happen but, when things go well, we learn from them, go, be happy with Connie. She is a wonderful, caring person. It’s obvious she loves you and cares for you and your family deeply.
ANDY: Thank you again. We will see you
tomorrow.
SCENE 2: Andy and Connie’s apartment early evening. They are just finishing with dinner.
ANDY: (Removing the remaining dishes from the table.) Theo, how’s your homework coming along?
THEO: (Proudly.) I finished it before dinner. Can I watch TV?
ANDY: (Glancing over at Connie giving Michelle a bottle in the living room.) If you help me with the dishes then you can watch some TV.
Andy hands a towel to Theo and he begins to dry some of the plates as Andy hands them to him. Andy keeps an eye on Connie, who is gazing protectively and lovingly at Michelle as the baby falls asleep in her arms. Suddenly the doorbell rings.
THEO: (Loudly) I’ll get it.
ANDY: (Motioning to Theo.) Shhh, the baby is sleeping.
Theo runs to the door as Andy dries the last of the dishes.
THEO: (Opening the door to reveal Diane Russell. In a whisper of a voice….) You have to be quiet, the baby is asleep.
ANDY: (Joining Theo at the door.) Diane, come in. This is a surprise. What’s up?
DIANE: Sorry for dropping by without calling. I was a couple blocks away and thought I would see how you are doing, are you ready for tomorrow?
CONNIE: (Joining them at the door with Michelle in her arms.) She’s asleep. I’m going to put her down. (Turning to Diane.) Come on in, have a seat. I’ll be right back.
ANDY: Theo, you can watch some TV before you go to bed.
THEO: Diane, you want to see my room?
DIANE: (Theo takes her hand.) Sure, Theo. But then I need to meet with Andy and Connie on some business, so we’ll have to make it quick.
Theo walks Diane to his room. Andy goes to check on Connie in their bedroom. As he enters the room he sees Connie standing over the baby’s bed, watching her drift off to sleep. Andy joins her, quietly walking up behind her, and placing his hand on Connie’s shoulder.
CONNIE: (Holding back her tears.) I can’t loose her, Andy. I lost Jennifer, when she was a baby. I’ve made mistakes in my past, but I will not let my sister down, I can’t loose her….(her voice trailing off)
ANDY: (Putting his arms around Connie.) We’re not going to loose her. (He sees a tear run down Connie’s face.) Don’t cry. (He holds her tighter to his chest, in part so that he doesn’t have to see Connie crying. He begins to speak quietly but defiantly.) I will not let them take her away. Do you hear me?
CONNIE: (Turns to face Andy. She tries to get a grip on her composure.) I’m sorry I am a basket case of emotions. (Waiting a beat.) Diane is out there waiting for us. We shouldn’t be in here.
ANDY: Don’t worry about Diane, Theo’s showing her his room.
CONNIE: (She breaks the hold that Andy has on her and walks towards the bathroom.) I’m going to wash my face. I’ll be right out.
Andy looks helpless. It’s painful for him to watch Connie so scared, so nervous. If he could, he would take this whole mess away from her. How could the Collahan’s seek custody? Their son had killed the mother of his child. The grandfather had been mentioned in numerous spousal abuse complaints as well as undocumented cases in which his daughter – Michelle’s aunt - had told Diane Russell about. There was no way in hell that Andy would allow this small, defenseless infant go with that man, that family. Snapping back to the reality of the present, Andy walked back into the living room, where Diane was paging through a magazine as she sat on the sofa.
ANDY: (Motioning in the direction of the bedroom.) Uhmm, Connie, she’ll be out in a moment. (Waiting a moment and remembering who he is talking to, Diane, someone both he and Connie know they can trust.) She’s not holding up too well right now. I need this case to be concluded tomorrow.
DIANE: That’s part of what I came here tonight to tell you. I spoke with Adrian, Frank’s sister earlier today.
Connie enters the room and takes a seat next to Andy on the sofa. Andy takes her hand in his and holds it tightly.
CONNIE: I’m glad you stopped by Diane. (Waiting a beat.) I’m sorry, can I get you something? Coffee? A soda?
DIANE: Some coffee would be great. It’s going to be a long night.
ANDY: I’ve got it. (Standing from the sofa.) Still with cream and one sugar?
DIANE: (With a laugh.) Some people never forget a thing.
Andy heads to the kitchen. Diane notices the puffiness around Connie’s eyes and joins her on the sofa.
DIANE: You need to relax. Everything is going to turn out just fine tomorrow.
CONNIE: (Quietly) You and Andy are the only people I have ever talked with about Jennifer. When I gave her up for adoption it left a huge hole in my heart. It took me years to get over that…if I really ever have. When Frank murdered my sister, I made a promise, to that baby and to myself, that I would always be there for her. I made that promise to my sister at her grave. (Waiting for a moment.) I messed up with Jennifer. I will not let that baby down….or my sister.
DIANE: You didn’t mess up with Jennifer….you were young. She will be in your life again one day. And you are not letting your sister down or the baby. Everything is going to be fine.
CONNIE: You don’t know that.
DIANE: I have a very good feeling…And you know, Andy, you and I are not going to allow anything to happen to take away that baby from the home where she belongs.
Andy returns with a cup of coffee for Diane and rejoins them on the sofa, next to Connie.
DIANE: (Standing up and walking around the living room.) I wanted you to know, the reason I came by tonight, I spoke with Adrian Collahan today. She has filed a complaint of sexual abuse against her father. It happened late this afternoon. I forwarded the information to your attorney. One complaint is for his abuse of her as a child, the other is for his abuse of Adrian’s daughter.
ANDY: There’s no judge in Manhattan that would allow Michelle to be given to that family now.
CONNIE: (Finally showing signs of relief.) Thank you….Diane, thank you for letting us know about this information. (Letting out what appears to be a sigh of relief.) This makes me feel much better about tomorrow. That man needs to be put away….with his son.
DIANE: After speaking with Adrian and the ADA, I’m pretty sure he will face some serious charges. Most likely by the end of this week.
ANDY: (To Diane) You will be in court tomorrow, won’t you?
DIANE: Of course. (Glancing at her watch.) I should probably get going. I still have some paperwork to do tonight.
Andy and Connie walk Diane to the door and say their good nights. As the door closes…
CONNIE: That makes me feel a little better. (Taking a seat on the sofa.) I just want all of this finalized so we can move on with our lives, do you know what I mean?
ANDY: (Sitting next to her.) Yeah, I do know.
CONNIE: I think I’m going to take a shower and get ready for bed. I want to get a good night’s sleep. (Looking at Andy.) How about you?
ANDY: I’m going to read. I’ll be in shortly.
Connie heads off to the bedroom. As soon as the door is closed, Andy walks over to his jacket and takes a small package out of the pocket. Opening the package he looks over an exquisite diamond ring – shining brightly in its box. It had taken Andy hours to pick out the ring. The sales person had been more than patient, but it had to be the right ring or no ring. This ring was going to stand for the commitment he felt towards Connie. She had been there for him over the past couple years and their friendship had grown into something that had frightened him at first. He always thought Sylvia was the love of his life. She changed him in ways that no one had ever been able to do. He cared for Sylvia more than life itself. He felt as if he had died when Sylvia had died. But he had to be there for their son, Theo. Without Theo, Andy would have easily gone back to his old friend, the bottle, and most like would have drank himself to death. Pulling himself together for Theo, Andy shut off any feelings of love for anyone other than his small son. He didn’t feel deserving of the love of someone else. Anyone who had mattered to him in his life had been taken away. He didn’t want to go through that again. But then Connie came into his life. Connie, his co-worker, his one time partner, his friend, she was able to look into his soul, chip away at the shield he had put up around him, and make all those suppressed feelings come alive again. Connie had awaken something deep inside of Andy that he thought he would never feel again. Andy had fought it for as long as he could….but fight no more, he had fallen in love with Connie McDowell. How could he have been so fortunate to have found someone who cared for him as much as he cared for her. He took another look at the ring and thought the sparkle reminded him of the sparkle he had seen in her eyes the first time they had made love. She was so beautiful and she loved him as much as he loved her. Andy closed the ring box ad placed it back in the coat pocket. The time would be soon to ask Connie McDowell to become Mrs. Sipowicz. After placing the ring in the jacket Andy walked off to the bedroom. This custody issue could not be resolved soon enough.
SCENE 3: Late morning at the courthouse. The judge has heard testimony from the Collohan’s, Diane Russell, Connie and various other court appointed doctors and personnel. Now, it was a waiting game. The judge had taken a recess to review the information and would be returning shortly to offer up his decision on who would retain custody of Michelle. Andy and Connie’s attorney was happy with the way the testimony went and felt very optimistic on a positive outcome. Andy, Connie and Diane had gone to the diner across from the courthouse to wait for the decision to come down.
ANDY: (Taking a sip of his coffee.) Can you believe it, Diane? Theo hits a homerun the first time he comes to bat in Little League. I think it surprised him more than it did us and his coach!
DIANE: He’s growing so fast. You have a good kid, Andy.
ANDY: I can’t take all the credit. Connie has been a big influence on him over the past year. (Andy looks at Connie, smiles and takes her hand in his.) I think Sylvia would be proud of him.
CONNIE: I’m sure she would.
DIANE: I know she would.
ANDY: (Feeling a little uncomfortable.) I’m going to check in with the squad. I’ll be right back.
Andy goes to use the phone as Connie and Diane continue to talk.
DIANE: You know, I would have never guessed the two of you would have hooked up back when I was in the 15th. You two have a really nice thing going here. I’m happy for both of you.
CONNIE: It just sort of happened, slowly, over the past year and a half. He’s a wonderful man. I’ve never been with anyone that has made me so happy, so loved and cared for. (With a big smile.) Diane, I love him so much.
DIANE: I can tell. And I am sure the feeling is mutual.
CONNIE: We just need to get past this custody issue. (waiting a beat.) I know I have been difficult to be around since the Collahans came into this. Andy has been wonderful, so supportive.
Andy walks up to the booth.
ANDY: I saw Dixon outside. She said the
judge is ready with his ruling. We should get back.
FADE OUT & INTO COURTROOM
Andy and Connie have taken their seats at their lawyer’s table. Lynn Dixon is chatting with an attorney in the doorway. The Collohans are seated with their attorney on the other side of the room. Judge Myers enters and takes his seat.
JUDGE: I’ve reviewed all the testimony and documentation in the custody case of Michelle Collohan and I am ready to make my ruling. This is not an easy case to consider. This child will not know her birth mother and there is every reason to believe she will have little or no direct contact with her birth father – should he remain incarcerated for the duration of his sentence. I’ve got two sets of people, both wanting custody of this minor child, who cannot speak for herself, so the decision is left in my hands. The Collohans, are parents and grandparents, with many years of hands on experience of child rearing. Mr. Collohan is gainfully employed and Mrs. Collohan is a stay at home wife caring for two grandchildren during work hours. This seems to be an ideal setting for their grandchild to reside in – with her grandparents and cousins, whom she has not had interaction with.
DIXON: (Whispering in Connie’s ear.) Don’t become alarmed. He is just verbalizing his thought process on his decision.
Connie entwines her arm with Andy’s arm and rests her hand on his. Andy gives her a reassuring glance.
JUDGE: On the other side of this room, I have Connie McDowell and Andy Sipowicz seeking custody of the same minor child. Ms. McDowell is the aunt of the child and in the employee of the Police Department of New York as a Detective. Mr. Sipowicz is also employed by the City of New York as a Detective. These are professions, which require a fair amount of overtime in sometimes stressful conditions that I would not wish on my enemies. Ms. McDowell and Mr. Sipowicz reside together, and if I am correct in remembering the details, have resided together for the past 3 months with Mr. Sipowicz young son. They reside together unwed, without the benefit of a commitment – which I gather means that either of these individuals can decide to leave at any given time. Within these conditions, the minor child has lived since being released from the hospital after her birth. The child appears happy and seemingly thrives within the setting – with a paid child care giver coming into the home during the day.
ANDY: (Whispering in Connie’s ear and eliciting a smile from Connie.) This guy loves to hear his own voice.
JUDGE: Perhaps I am boring some of you with this recitation of the details and facts of this case. (Looking over paperwork on his desk.) After all consideration in the this matter, and their were pros and cons on both sides (the judge glances at Andy) I feel at this time, the custody of Michelle Collohan should continue to be retained by Ms. McDowell and Mr. Sipowicz. It has been under their supervision that the child has been thrived for the entirety of her young life. While I am not a fan of their living arrangement, I feel their concern, compassion and their love for this child and each other outweighs any doubt I have in awarding them sole custody of the minor child. Congratulations.
The judge rises and exits the courtroom. The Collohans console themselves while talking to their lawyer. Andy leans over and gives Connie a gentle kiss on the cheeks. Then both Andy and Connie shake Lynn Dixon’s hand. As they rise from the table, Andy and Connie share a tight hug.
ANDY: (Whispering in Connie’s ear.) We did it.
CONNIE: (Whispering back to Andy.) I love you.
ANDY: (Quietly) I love you too.
Diane joins the happy duo at the lawyers table. Dixon is speaking with the Collohan’s attorney in the doorway. The Collohan’s exit the courtroom without acknowledging Connie or Andy.
DIANE: Congratulations. I am so happy for you both. I know you are relieved this is over.
CONNIE: You can say that again. I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders.
DIANE: Well, I need to get back to the office. I will keep you informed on how the case materializes against Mr. Collohan. (Waiting a moment.) Let’s try to stay in touch better this time, maybe get together for dinner sometime.
CONNIE: We will, I promise.
Connie and Diane share a hug and Diane heads out of the courtroom. Andy walks out with her.
ANDY: I can’t thank you enough for all you’ve done.
DIANE: Andy, consider it just a small repayment for everything you have ever done for me. You are special Andy, just know I will always be here for you and for Connie.
ANDY: It works both ways. We are always here for you too.
DIANE: I have to go. (Waiting a beat.) Give me a call when you decide to make an honest woman out of Connie. (Shaking her head.) She loves you Andy, don’t let her get away.
Andy hears Diane’s words and knows what he has to do. As he turns he sees Connie exiting the courtroom with Lynn Dixon.
DIXON: Be prepared for an appeal.
Collohan’s attorney said they will be considering it. But, taking into
consideration the pending charges against Mr. Collohan, I wouldn’t allow
myself to become concerned about this.
CONNIE: Thank you Lynn, for everything you have done.
ANDY: Thank you just doesn’t seem enough.
DIXON: I have to head to my next case. Connie, it’s been a pleasure meeting you. Andy, it was good to see you again. Remember what I said to you yesterday.
Lynn Dixon heads out of the courthouse.
ANDY: You ready to go home?
CONNIE: I’m ready….let’s go home to our family.
Andy and Connie walk hand in hand to the exit.
SCENE 4: Mid Afternoon, the following day. Andy is seen walking across a cemetery, alone. It’s a cloudy afternoon, sort of dreary. He stops at one of the graves and looks around the area, as if to see if someone is watching. He adjusts some red roses around the headstone, which appear to have been recently placed there.
ANDY: (Kneeling down.) Sylvia, you know I’m not good with words, so I’ll do this the best that I can. I guess you know I think about you everyday. I hold the memories of our life together in a special place in my heart and I think about those times everyday. Theo, he’s growing up to be a real good kid. You’d be proud of him. He does things every now and then and I swear I can see you, your image in him. He’s smart like you. And he’s a kind person, he cares about other people…just like you. (Taking a deep breath.) You know, I met someone, someone who reminds me a lot of you. Her name is Connie and she’s a good friend, someone who has helped me out and been there when I needed someone, and when Theo needed a woman, a mom, around. Times when you should have been there for him. Connie will never take the place you have in my heart. She knows that. She’s respectful of you and your memory. She reminds Theo about you. She’s helping him become this great kid that I know he would have been if you’d been here with him. I love Connie, but I know I would have never have fallen in love with her if I still had you with me, if you were still here for me and Theo. I don’t want you to think I am disrespecting you or your memory. I’m going to ask Connie to marry me. We can have a good life together. I think you know what I mean. (Tears start to fall from his eyes.) I miss you so much, Sylvia. I love you … and I always will. I hope I have your blessing. You will live on in Theo …and in my heart.
Andy rises from the grave and stands there
for several moments in silence. As Andy cries quietly, the clouds slowly part
and the sun begins to shine through. Slowly Andy looks skyward and smiles. He
thought to himself, Sylvia always did have a subtle way of letting him know he
was doing the right thing. Andy gently touched the headstone and turned and
walked away. It always made him feel better, coming to visit Sylvia. Now, he was
going to head home to his future, to Connie.
SCENE 5
Late afternoon, Squad Room of the 15th Precinct. Rita and Connie are finishing up paperwork. John and Andy are out working a case. Rita walks over to Connie’s desk.
RITA: (to Connie) I’m calling it a day, I’m taking an hour of lost time. I’ll see you tomorrow.
CONNIE: Have a good evening.
RITA: (She turns to exit but stops and turns back to Connie.) Congratulations again on the custody case. I know that has to be a huge relief, to both you and Andy.
CONNIE: Thanks. It is a relief, Andy and I both feel like a weigh has been lifted off our shoulders
RITA: Well, I just wanted you to know how happy I am for you and Andy.
CONNIE: Thanks, it means a lot.
Rita leaves for the day. Connie continues to complete the paperwork. A few minutes later Andy and John enter the squad room and eventually make their way to their desks.
JOHN: I’ll update the boss on where we stand. Can you call the lab to see if the results are back?
ANDY: Sure. (Watching as John Clark walks into the Leutenient’s office, then turning towards Connie.) How’s your day been?
CONNIE: Routine, (with a smile) too much paperwork. You?
ANDY: (Rolling his eyes.) Some kid killed for selling baby powder – passing it off as cocaine. (Looking around to see if anyone is near and listening.) I was thinking we could go out tonight, for dinner. What do you think?
CONNIE: (Leaning in towards Andy’s desk.) Yeah, what do you have in mind? I know Theo wants to go to that 50’s style pizza place….you know, over on 3rd.
ANDY: I was thinking just us two. (He waits a moment – almost looking as if he’s been rejected. He wanted time alone with Connie, she was thinking about bringing the kids along.) I asked John Irvin and he’s available to watch the kids tonight.
CONNIE: (With a slight smile.) I think that sounds nice. Where do you want to go?
ANDY: How about Riverview Café? I know you like that place.
CONNIE: That would be nice. (Waiting for a moment.) We got a date.
ANDY: I like that.
Scene fades out as Connie finishes her
paperwork and Andy watches out of the corner of his eye. Tonight would be the
night, the night he asked Connie McDowell to be his wife.
SCENE 6
Connie and Andy’s apartment, later that same day. John Irvin is looking over a pile of Theo’s favorite videos for a movie to watch. Andy, looking a little nervous, is pacing in the living room. Connie is still getting ready in the bedroom.
ANDY: (Nervously watching the clock. He shouts towards the bedroom…) Connie, you almost ready?
CONNIE: (Her voice coming from the bedroom.) Just about. I’ll be right out.
ANDY: (Looking at John.) Why do women take so much time to get ready? (Looks back at John, with a bemused look on his face.) You probably wouldn’t know about that, I guess.
JOHN: Detective, I’m sure the wait will be worth it. (And with a knowing look to Andy.) And, the Riverview Café is the perfect setting for an intimate dinner. Stunning views, and devine lobster pate.
ANDY: (Slightly sarcastic.) I’m glad you approve.
Connie exits the bedroom looking absolutely stunning – wearing a sexy black dress with spaghetti straps. Andy stops in his tracks as he sees her walk into the living room….he’s never seen her look more beautiful, he thought.
JOHN: (Placing his hand to his chest.) Detective, you look beautiful. I love that dress.
CONNIE: Thank you, John. (She sees Andy in the kitchen.) Are we ready?
ANDY: (Still momentarily speechless and still taking in the vision of Connie in the black dress.) Uhmm, yeah, let’s go. (Still unable to take his eyes off Connie….he walks towards the door as Connie joins him.)
CONNIE: John, you’ve got our cell phone number if you need us. Don’t hesitate to call, ok?
JOHN: I’m sure everything will be fine here. Have a wonderful evening, both of you.
CONNIE: We won’t be too late. If Michelle wakes up, she will usually fall back to sleep easier if you turn on the musical teddy bear in her crib…and (Andy takes her by the arm and gently leads her towards the door.) …just call if you have any questions.
JOHN: Don’t worry about anything here, I’m sure everything will be just fine. Have a terrific evening.
ANDY: Thanks John.
Connie and Andy exit the apartment and make their way to their car, parked on the street in front of their building. After closing Connie’s door, Andy makes his way to the drivers side and gets behind the wheel.
ANDY: (Turning towards Connie, he takes her hand in his.) You look beautiful.
CONNIE: (Quietly.) Oh, Andy, thank you.
ANDY: (Still holding her hand in his.) I’ve never seen you look this beautiful. (He leans over and gives he a gentle kiss on the lips and gazes into her eyes for a long moment. He then starts the car.)
CONNIE: Wait, Andy…(She moves closer to Andy.) I don’t think I said this yesterday, but I should have. Thank you for being there for me in court. I don’t know if I could have made it through as well as I did without you being there….for me…and Michelle.
ANDY: We’re a family….you two and Theo, you are my family.
Connie leans into Andy and kisses him longingly on the lips. They gaze quietly into each others eyes for what seems like an eternity. No words needed to be spoken between them. Suddenly a loud car horn blared nearby and broke their gaze. Andy smiled at Connie, gave her a kiss on the forehead and set back in his seat. As their car pulled into traffic Connie reached over and placed her hand on Andy’s shoulder. She loved this man, Andy Sipowicz.
SCENE 7
Andy and Connie are seated in a corner table in the Riverview Café. They have finished dinner and are enjoying each others company while holding hands across the table.
CONNIE: This has been nice. I’m glad you suggested we have dinner out tonight…just us.
ANDY: Yeah, well, we’ve been so busy with work and the custody case, I thought we could use a break. You know, dinner without a discussion of homework or a baby crying….adult conversation.
The waiter comes over and asks if everything is ok, if anything else is needed. He places the check next to Andy and walks off. Andy still has a grasp on Connie’s hand across the table.
ANDY: They got a deck outside, along the river. Why don’t we take a walk out there before we head home. It’s a nice night out.
CONNIE: That sounds nice.
After Andy settles the bill, he and Connie take a walk along the riverfront, taking in the lights across the river and the boats making their way around Manhattan. Andy can’t seem to get any words out as they stroll along the boardwalk style deck, he can’t take his eyes off Connie.
CONNIE: You’re being very quiet tonight. You ok?
ANDY: I’m fine. (He places his hand on Connie’s back and they stand looking out over the river.) You cold? Why don’t you take my jacket.
CONNIE: I’m fine, Andy. (She turns to face Andy and places her arms around his waist.) Is everything alright, you seem nervous.
ANDY: Connie, you know we’ve been through so much in the past few months. It’s made me step back and take a good look at my feelings….my feelings, for you and our life together. Sometimes I still can’t believe you would want to be with someone like me. I keep thinking I’m going to wake up and this dream of mine is going to end one day.
CONNIE: It’s not a dream….it’s real….my feelings for you, they’re real. What I do for you , you do for me. (Smiling as she plays with his tie.) Do you hear me, I’m not going anywhere, ok?
ANDY: I told myself, after Sylvia passed, that certain feelings in me, well, I would never feel them again. But when I met you, something inside of me awakened and those feelings, they came back to life. (He takes a deep breath and looks deep into Connie’s eyes.) You, your eyes, they can see into my soul. It took me a while to realize all this, you knew before me…but I guess I was just a little bit slower. (Andy takes Connie into his arms and they fall into a deep and probing kiss, neither wants it to end.) Connie, I love you, I want to spend the rest of my life with you.
CONNIE: (Tears begin to stream down her cheeks, tears of happiness.) You make me so happy. I want you to know that. I love you, Andy, I love you so much. (Andy gently kisses the tears from her cheeks.)
ANDY: (He steps back from their embrace. For a brief moment, he looks towards to the stars, as if to search for the right words.) Connie, I want…(Andy suddenly drops to one knee and takes Connie’s hand.) us to share the rest of our lives together. Will you make me the happiest and the proudest man on earth…will you marry me? (Andy takes the ring out of his pocket and shows it to Connie.)
CONNIE: (The tears continue to fall down her cheeks.) Yes, yes, I will marry you. (Andy stands up and begins to place the ring on her finger.) I love you Andy.
The ring in place on Connie’s hand, Andy gently kisses Connie and puts his arms around her. No words are spoken, but their physical action say it all.
ANDY: You ready to go home?
CONNIE: (Her hand slowly touches the side of Andy’s face.) Yeah, let’s go home.
Andy kisses Connie’s hand and the ring he’s just put on her finger. He places his arm around Connie and they head for the valet, their car and the short trip home.
SCENE FADES OUT
SCENE 8 Same night, McDowell-Sipowicz apartment.
John Irvin is seated on the sofa paging through a decorating magazine. Theo is asleep in his room and baby Michelle is sleeping in her crib. There is noise at the door as Andy puts the key in the lock. Andy and Connie enter.
CONNIE: We’re home.
JOHN: How was dinner? Wonderful, I am sure.
ANDY: It was very nice.
CONNIE: Any problems here?
JOHN: (Putting on his jacket and gathering up his messenger bag.) No problems at all. Theo’s been out for an hour. Michelle has been asleep for about 20 minutes, since I gave her a bottle.
ANDY: (Anxious.) Thanks, John. It’s getting late, I’m sure you need to be going.
JOHN: (Sensing Andy’s tone.) Yes, it is late, I should be heading home. (Glancing at Connie.) Good night.
The door closes and Connie glances over at Andy, who is looking in on Theo. She meets Andy half way across the living room.
CONNIE: (Placing her arms around Andy.) You ready to go to bed?
ANDY: You tired?
CONNIE: (Sly smile on her face, snuggling up close with Andy.) I didn’t say I was tired.
ANDY: Well, I guess it doesn’t hurt to go to bed early some times.
CONNIE: Oh, it's not going to hurt...I promise.
Connie gives Andy a kiss and turns and walks to the bedroom.
CONNIE: I'll be waiting for you.... (Her voice trails off as she walks away.)
Andy walks across the living room, turning the lights off as he makes his way to the bedroom. Opening the bedroom door slowly, Andy sees Connie entering the bedroom from the adjoining bathroom –wearing only her newly acquired engagement ring. Andy walks over to the closet and begins to take off his clothes, where Connie joins him.
CONNIE: (starting to unbutton Andy's shirt) You want some help?
ANDY: (enjoying the moment) Sure, I'd never turn down your help.
CONNIE: (as Andy's shirt falls to the floor) I'm glad to hear that.
ANDY: (nodding toward the shirt on the floor) You want me to get that?
CONNIE: (keeping her gaze into Andy's eyes) Get what? (...As she moves to give Andy a gentle kiss on the lips...)
Connie and Andy share slow, passionate kisses as Andy's pants drop to the floor. Connie gently nuzzles on Andy's neck as she pushes Andy back to the bed with her body.
CONNIE: (as they fall into bed, speaking quietly) Andy, don't say anything, just let me show you.... how I feel about you....let me show you my feelings…
ANDY: I know how you feel.... I know....
CONNIE: (placing her hand to his
lips...tracing the outline of his lips) Shhhhhhhh. No more words.
FADE OUT
SCENE 9
Several hours later, the bedroom is dark except for the
street light shining through the window. Connie is resting her head on Andy’s
chest and running her finger along his lips – tracing their outline. Andy is
happily taking it all in, Connie in his arms, Michelle and Theo peacefully
sleeping in their beds, life was looking pretty good right now.
CONNIE: (Still tracing his lips with her finger.) I love these lips.
ANDY: (Looking pretty full of himself, with a slight smirk on his face.) You were loving a lot more than my lips just a few minutes ago.
CONNIE: (She climbs on top of him and leans over and begins to kiss on the lips.) I love all of you.
ANDY: (Looking very happy as Connie leans into him, her hair falling over his face.) Yeah, well, I got a lot to love. I need to loose some weight.
CONNIE: You’re just right for me…
ANDY: (Sensing his growing feelings…places his hand on the small of Connie’s back. He loved the small of her back, it was so soft, and from there he could almost sense her feelings…if she pulled away, if she moved closer to him, if she was wanting to be close to him or she needed some extra space…it was as if his hand were on her pulse.) It’s my turn, you be quiet and let me show you … (he takes her hand and kisses the ring he placed on it hours earlier). You’ve made me the happiest man in the world tonight.
With his hand on the small of her back he
flips Connie to the bed and he hovers over her, looking into her eyes….life
was certainly looking up for Andy Sipowicz