PASSAGES - EPISODE 2, ACT 2
Oct. 21st, 2007 03:36 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
kashiwritesPrevious: Episode 2, Act 1
II.A) VICKERY LIVING ROOM. MANY OF THE GUESTS HAVE COME INTO THE ROOM AND ARE STANDING AROUND IN LITTLE GROUPS, TALKING QUIETLY. ARTHUR, DARCY, RYAN, AND KEVIN ARE BASICALLY AS THEY WERE AT THE END OF THE LAST SCENE. PAIGE AND AUDREY STAND TO ONE SIDE, WATCHING THEM.
AUDREY - What's going on? Why is he -- is it Ryan, or Kevin? -- why is he so mad at -- whoever the other one is?
PAIGE - The one who's mad is Ryan. The one who he knocked down is Kevin.
AUDREY - You can really tell? I'm impressed. So why is Ryan so mad?
PAIGE - Maybe because Kevin never showed up at the funeral. He's got a point, don't you think?
AUDREY - (STARES FIXEDLY AT KEVIN) No. Actually, I don't.
(KEVIN NOW HAS HIS NEW DRINK AND TURNS TO FACE RYAN. DURING THEIR ENSUING CONVERSATION, AUDREY EDGES CLOSER, EAVESDROPPING. PAIGE TRAILS BEHIND HER OUT OF CURIOSITY.)
RYAN - You're lying. I know you weren't there because I was looking for you.
KEVIN - The all-seeing eye. And you couldn't possibly have missed me, or been mistaken.
RYAN - No. I was looking for you all day. All day, Kevin! If you had shown up I would have known it! You're a bloody liar!
KEVIN - And you're a bloody fool. I tell you, Ryan, I was there! You just didn't see me, but I was there.
RYAN - No you weren't --
AUDREY - Excuse me...? Remember me, Ryan...? We met at the chapel.
RYAN - Yes, of course I remember. Audrey. But we're in the middle of a private --
AUDREY - I know. Sorry. But I overheard what you were saying, and your brother is telling the truth. He got there late, but he was there. I saw him. He sat at the back.
(THERE IS A SHORT, UNCOMFORTABLE PAUSE. KEVIN LOOKS UNEASY, REMEMBERING THE SHAPE HE WAS IN AT THE CHAPEL. RYAN LOOKS EXTREMELY DOUBTFUL.)
RYAN - You think you saw him? Are you sure...?
AUDREY - (LOOKS INCREDULOUS) Am I sure? Well yeah, unless you were sitting in two places at the same time. I could see both of you from where I was sitting.
DARCY - Oh, I knew you wouldn't miss mother's memorial, Kevin.
KEVIN - Thanks, Darce. At least someone has a little faith in me.
DARCY - Of course we did, Kevin. We all knew you'd be here; we were just worried because we hadn't heard from you.
ARTHUR - So where have you been, Kevin? Why have you not contacted us?
KEVIN - I'm sorry about that, father. I had so many arrangements to make so I could stay a while, that I just couldn't call. I knew I'd be here in a couple of days anyway, so I thought it wasn't that urgent. (GLANCES AT RYAN) I didn't realize everyone would be panicking.
RYAN - (TIGHTLY) We weren't panicking. And it wouldn't have been that hard to make one phone call.
ARTHUR - What sort of arrangements did you have to make, Kevin?
KEVIN - I moved up one of my oral exams. It was due at the beginning of next week, so I asked if I could do it today, so I could stay home and not have to go back right away.
RYAN - You took an exam today? The day of your mother's funeral?
ARTHUR - How did you do?
KEVIN - I think it went very well. I tried to do the best I could. I thought...(HIS VOICE CATCHES VERY SLIGHTLY)...I thought mother would have wanted me to try...
RYAN - Gods! (TURNS AWAY IN DISGUST)
ARTHUR - (PUTS A HAND ON KEVIN'S SHOULDER) That must have been very difficult for you. I'm proud of you, son. And your mother would be too.
KEVIN - Thank you, father.
ARTHUR - Now that the exam is done, how long can you stay?
KEVIN - Well…I was going to talk to you about that. But I don't really think right now is the best time or place.
ARTHUR - Quite right. And I ought to greet our guests anyway, so I shouldn't spend overmuch time here. Will you be alright? No more disagreements? Ryan?
RYAN - (OVER HIS SHOULDER) I'll try to restrain myself.
ARTHUR - Please do. (SQUEEZES KEVIN'S SHOULDER AGAIN) Your hard work is over, son. Now just relax with the family, and our friends. Darcy, why don't you come with me? I think Justin would like you to be with him.
DARCY - (KISSES KEVIN'S CHEEK) I'm so glad you're home. We'll talk after all this is over, alright? (SHE FOLLOWS ARTHUR TOWARD SOME OF THE OTHER GUESTS)
(RYAN TURNS IN KEVIN'S DIRECTION AS THOUGH TO TALK TO HIM, BUT KEVIN HAS ALREADY TURNED TO AUDREY. RYAN HANGS AROUND OUTSIDE THE EDGE OF THE CONVERSATION.)
KEVIN - I think I owe you a debt of gratitude. You seem to have saved me from the lion's den. (HE HOLDS OUT HIS HAND.) Kevin Vickery. And you are...?
(AUDREY LOOKS AROUND IN A BIT OF A PANIC. PAIGE IS NOW TALKING TO SOMEONE A LITTLE DISTANCE AWAY. AUDREY TAKES A DEEP BREATH AND SHAKES KEVIN'S HAND GINGERLY.)
AUDREY - I’m Aida Fran -- I mean -- my name is Audrey Larson. I go to school part-time with Paige. Your cousin, that is. But -- I mean -- of course you knew that.
KEVIN - I seem to recall someone of that name, yes.
AUDREY - Sorry. I get a little nervous and sort of lose my head. Know what I mean?
KEVIN - (LAUGHS) I know what you mean. But you seemed cool as a cucumber when you jumped in and saved my neck. I owe you.
AUDREY - Well, it wasn't that bad. I wouldn't say I "saved your neck," exactly --
KEVIN - In this family, yes, I'd say that's exactly what you did. I'm glad you're here.
AUDREY - Oh. Well. I, uh, that's very nice of you to say.
KEVIN - So. You said "part-time"?
AUDREY - What? I mean -- pardon?
KEVIN - You said you went to school "part-time" with Paige. What do you do the rest of the time? But wait. Can I get you a drink or something? I'm sure there's some non-alcoholic punch over there. Come on, we'll find you something.
(HE PUTS HIS HAND ON THE SMALL OF HER BACK AND GUIDES HER TO THE REFRESHMENT TABLE. SHE IS SO ELECTRIFIED SHE CAN HARDLY TAKE HER EYES OFF HIM.)
KEVIN - So. What would you like, Audrey?
AUDREY - Anything. Anything you want.
KEVIN - Alright. (HE POURS HER A GLASS OF PUNCH AND GIVES IT TO HER. THEN HE CLINKS HIS GLASS WITH HERS AND THEY DRINK TOGETHER. SHE STARES AT HIM, ENTHRALLED, OVER THE RIM OF HER BLASS, AND HE SMILES BACK AT HER.)
II.B) RUMINATIONS RESTAURANT. KYLE AND CONNOR ARE JUST RELEASING HANDS AFTER SHAKING. TYLOR IS LOOKING ON, BEAMING HAPPILY.
CONNOR - So you're a good friend of Tylor's, are you?
TYLOR - We've been getting to know each other quite well lately, Connor. Kyle's in here a lot, in fact. I'm surprised you two haven't met before.
CONNOR - Well, you do tend to draw a crowd here, Tylor. I don't generally canvas the place, wondering who amongst the multitudes is a special friend of yours.
KYLE - And I don't start conversations with a lot of people...
TYLOR - I'll say he doesn't. Connor, you should have seen this guy when I first started trying to draw him out! (SHE PUTS A COMPANIONABLE HAND ON KYLE'S SHOULDER) He is so shy! I thought he was going to sink through the floor.
CONNOR - And you're so withdrawn and retiring yourself...
TYLOR - I suppose I can be a little overbearing, can't I? I was overbearing, wasn't I, Kyle?
KYLE - (LAUGHS, EMBARASSED) Oh, I don't know...
TYLOR - Of course I was. I sometimes think he's only my friend because he caved under the pressure.
KYLE - That's not true. You shouldn't put yourself down like that.
TYLOR - Was that a putdown?
KYLE - Yes. Stop it.
TYLOR - See how good he is for me, Connor? I'm thinking of appointing him my personal therapist.
KYLE - (LAUGHS AGAIN) I think your sanity's in danger, Tylor.
TYLOR - Well, that's nothing new so I don't have much to lose, do I?
KYLE - It's your funeral, I guess.
CONNOR - Well, this is all deeply fascinating, but I'm going to have to take my leave.
TYLOR - Connor's got a big evening planned.
KYLE - Does he...
CONNOR - Yes, and I've got a few more preparations to make before my friend arrives. I have to get everything just right.
KYLE - Sounds like a big night. Hope everything turns out.
CONNOR - So do I. (HE HOLDS OUT HIS HAND) Nice to meet you, Kyle.
KYLE - (SHAKING CONNOR'S HAND) Same here.
CONNOR - See you later, Tylor.
TYLOR - Bye, Connor. Good luck.
(CONNOR FLASHES HER A SMILE AND DEPARTS. TYLOR TURNS BACK TO KYLE.)
TYLOR - So Kyle, can I get you a table? Any special preference tonight?
KYLE - Not tonight. I can't stay, actually.
TYLOR - Oh too bad. Why not?
KYLE - I'm meeting with some friends. Nothing much, but I don't want to stand them up.
TYLOR - Of course not. But I'm going to miss your company. Are you sure you can't stay for one little drink, at least? On the house...?
KYLE - I don't know...
TYLOR - Please? Just one? What can I bribe you with?
KYLE - Oh, there's no need to resort to bribes, Tylor. (IAN WALKS IN THE DOOR AS HE'S SPEAKING) I suppose I might have time for one -- (HE SEES IAN, WHO IS LOOKING THE PLACE OVER AND HASN'T SPOTTED KYLE OR TYLOR YET) Oh. Tylor, I just remembered something I need to do before I meet my friends. I really can't stay.
TYLOR - Oh, I'm sorry about that. Maybe next --
KYLE - Can I use your restroom quickly before I leave?
TYLOR - Sure, of course --
KYLE - I'll make this up to you next time. I'm sorry, Tylor. (HE GIVES HER A QUICK PECK ON THE CHEEK AND RUSHES OUT THE BACK WAY)
TYLOR - (STARES AFTER HIM, HER FINGERS TOUCHING HER CHEEK WHERE HE KISSED IT) No...problem...
IAN - (APPROACHES HER. SHE HAS MOMENTARY DIFFICULTY CONCENTRATING ON HIM) Hi. Someone told me you own this place.
TYLOR - Uh…what? Excuse me...?
IAN - This place. You own it?
TYLOR - This place…the restaurant...? Oh. Yes. I own it.
IAN - (STARES AT HER FOR A MOMENT) I could go somewhere else.
TYLOR - Go...? Oh, I'm sorry. No, don't go, please. I'm letting myself be distracted and you shouldn't have to pay for that. Yes, I own this place; I'm Tylor Hirsch. What can I do for you?
IAN - I'm just looking for a place to eat, before my evening class. This place is near the university, so I thought I'd check it out. What sort of food do you do here?
TYLOR - I'll show you a menu. And you're right, with the university right across the street, this is one of the handiest places you can eat before a late class.
IAN - (LOOKS AROUND SCEPTICALLY) I don't suppose you do burgers here...?
TYLOR - Afraid not. So you're a burger man, are you? Tell you what. Take a look at the menu, and if it's really not what you want, I'll point out a couple of burger places down the street. But you might discover that health food can be pretty tasty.
IAN - (VERY DOUBTFULLY) Oh...I don't know...
TYLOR - Here... (SHE LEADS HIM TO THE BAR AND GRABS A MENU) Take a look. And if anything looks interesting, how about a hefty discount, to tempt you to give it a try?
IAN - (LAUGHS A LITTLE) Are you serious?
TYLOR - Why not? Maybe I'll call it part of my marketing budget. Anything to get new customers, and all that.
IAN - You've got a marketing budget?
TYLOR - I do now. What do you say?
IAN - (OPENS THE MENU AND STARTS TO PERUSE IT) I suppose I can't turn down an offer like that...
TYLOR - Good.
IAN - And I imagine everything in here is made of tofu and sprouts?
TYLOR - (LAUGHS DELIGHTEDLY) Hardly any of it, in fact. Here, I'll show you... (SHE LEANS OVER HIS ARM AND STARTS POINTING OUT VARIOUS ITEMS ON THE MENU)
(IN THE BACKGROUND, KYLE HAS COME BACK INTO VIEW AS TYLOR AND IAN TALKED. HE SLOWLY INCHES HIS WAY PAST THEM AND NOW MAKES HIS WAY TO THE DOOR. HE PAUSES A MOMENT, LOOKING WARILY BACK AT THE DUO -- PARTICULARLY AT IAN. THEN HE SLIPS OUT.)
II.C) VICKERY LIVING ROOM. ARTHUR IS TALKING TO BLYTHE AND ADRIAN, AND ALL THREE ARE WATCHING KEVIN AND AUDREY TALKING AT THE OTHER END OF THE ROOM.
ARTHUR - I don't quite know who she is or why she's here, but I'm glad she stepped in when she did, or Ryan and Kevin would probably be brawling all over the floor by now.
ADRIAN - Ryan flies off the handle fairly easily, doesn't he? A bit of a temper...?
ARTHUR - Lack of self-control is the problem. He gives in to his emotions rather than taking control of them. Kevin is much better at controlling himself. Ryan could take a few lessons from him. I wish he would.
ADRIAN - So who is the girl, uncle Arthur? I've never seen anything so outlandish in my life.
ARTHUR - I've no idea.
BLYTHE - I was hoping not to have to admit this, but she works for me.
ADRIAN - Excuse me? You allow...that...to work in one of the finest fashion establishments in the country? Blythe, I'm shocked.
BLYTHE - Trust me. She doesn't look like that when she models for me --
ADRIAN - She models for you? I thought you meant she was one of your sales staff.
ARTHUR - Isn't she a little...inexperienced…to model at this level?
BLYTHE - How polite you are, uncle. She's quite raw, yes, but she has the potential to be very good. See how she carries herself. When she stands in front of a camera, she's superb.
ADRIAN - Somehow I just can't look at... (HE WAVES HIS HAND IN AUDREY'S DIRECTION) ...and think "superb."
BLYTHE - But look past the clothes, Adrian. (HE RAISES HIS EYEBROWS) You know what I mean. When I put her in the right clothes she's dynamite.
ADRIAN - Maybe you should give them to her on permanent loan.
BLYTHE - Yes, maybe I should. She doesn't seem to be absorbing the fundamentals very well. She's got her mind on other things. She, shall we say, aspires too high. Perhaps something to take note of, uncle Arthur. Considering who she's talking to.
ARTHUR - Nothing to worry about. I keep an eye on these things.
ANASTASIA - (COMING UP BEHIND THEM) That's odd. I could have sworn Kevin was old enough to make his own decisions.
ARTHUR - It never hurts to look out for gold-diggers, Anastasia.
BLYTHE - Which she is, I assure you.
ANASTASIA - Well, I still think Kevin can protect himself against a star-struck high school student. And she might even be a nice girl.
ARTHUR - Excuse me, I see someone I need to speak to. (HE MOVES ON)
ADRIAN - Look, Anastasia, I'm sorry about your mother. I really loved aunt Patricia. I can't believe she's gone. How are you doing?
ANASTASIA - I think we're all a bit numb right now. It probably won't sink in until everybody leaves today. I'm glad you and Blythe are here.
BLYTHE - We wouldn't be anywhere else. You're all like family to us. Is there anything we can do to help?
ANASTASIA - So many people ask that, and I keep wishing I could say yes, you can help by... (SHE SHRUGS HELPLESSLY) But what can anyone do? I never realized before, how much we all have to handle this sort of thing alone.
ADRIAN - Well...if you need to talk or need someone to take some of your burdens off your hands, my sister and I are both here.
BLYTHE - For example, Anastasia, do you need any help at the gallery? My artistic talents may be utilized in the fashion industry rather than the art world proper, but I might manage to extend them into your field for a few days.
ADRIAN - And I could keep an eye on the business side if you need to take a few days off.
ANASTASIA - I know it's a tempting idea, but...
ADRIAN - Why not do it then?
BLYTHE - We won't let things fall apart, I promise.
ANASTASIA - Thanks, both of you. I appreciate the offer more than I can say. I just think I'd do better if I got back to work and kept myself busy. There's been enough brooding in this house since mother's death and I don't want to do it any more.
ADRIAN - Are you sure?
ANASTASIA - Yes. But I promise, I'm going to keep your offer in mind, just in case I turn out to need it after all. Is that good enough?
BLYTHE - Whatever helps you get through is "good enough," Anastasia. Just so you know you've got someone to lean on.
ANASTASIA - I don't want to do too much leaning right now, if I can help it. I have a feeling someone else might need to lean on me before too long, and I want to stay strong for him.
(SHE STARES ACROSS THE ROOM AT RYAN, WHO IS STILL HOVERING NEAR KEVIN AND AUDREY, WATCHING THEM TALK)
II.D) CONNOR HOLLISTER'S LIVING ROOM. CONNOR MOVES HERE AND THERE ACROSS THE ROOM PUTTING THE FINISHING TOUCHES TOO IT. THE DINING ROOM TABLE IS SET, COMPLETE WITH CANDLES WHICH HE LIGHTS. HE STRAIGHTENS A COUPLE OF THINGS, CHECKS THE WINE, AND TAKES ANOTHER LOOK OVER THE ROOM.
THERE IS A KNOCK ON THE DOOR. CONNOR SMILES IN ANTICIPATION AND WALKS OVER TO THE DOOR. HE OPENS IT, AND KYLE STANDS IN THE DOORWAY. THEY LOOK AT EACH OTHER FOR A LONG MOMENT.
KYLE - Hi, Connor.
CONNOR - Hi, Kyle. (HE REACHES FORWARD AND THEY EMBRACE AND KISS)
Next: Episode 2, Act 3
II.A) VICKERY LIVING ROOM. MANY OF THE GUESTS HAVE COME INTO THE ROOM AND ARE STANDING AROUND IN LITTLE GROUPS, TALKING QUIETLY. ARTHUR, DARCY, RYAN, AND KEVIN ARE BASICALLY AS THEY WERE AT THE END OF THE LAST SCENE. PAIGE AND AUDREY STAND TO ONE SIDE, WATCHING THEM.
AUDREY - What's going on? Why is he -- is it Ryan, or Kevin? -- why is he so mad at -- whoever the other one is?
PAIGE - The one who's mad is Ryan. The one who he knocked down is Kevin.
AUDREY - You can really tell? I'm impressed. So why is Ryan so mad?
PAIGE - Maybe because Kevin never showed up at the funeral. He's got a point, don't you think?
AUDREY - (STARES FIXEDLY AT KEVIN) No. Actually, I don't.
(KEVIN NOW HAS HIS NEW DRINK AND TURNS TO FACE RYAN. DURING THEIR ENSUING CONVERSATION, AUDREY EDGES CLOSER, EAVESDROPPING. PAIGE TRAILS BEHIND HER OUT OF CURIOSITY.)
RYAN - You're lying. I know you weren't there because I was looking for you.
KEVIN - The all-seeing eye. And you couldn't possibly have missed me, or been mistaken.
RYAN - No. I was looking for you all day. All day, Kevin! If you had shown up I would have known it! You're a bloody liar!
KEVIN - And you're a bloody fool. I tell you, Ryan, I was there! You just didn't see me, but I was there.
RYAN - No you weren't --
AUDREY - Excuse me...? Remember me, Ryan...? We met at the chapel.
RYAN - Yes, of course I remember. Audrey. But we're in the middle of a private --
AUDREY - I know. Sorry. But I overheard what you were saying, and your brother is telling the truth. He got there late, but he was there. I saw him. He sat at the back.
(THERE IS A SHORT, UNCOMFORTABLE PAUSE. KEVIN LOOKS UNEASY, REMEMBERING THE SHAPE HE WAS IN AT THE CHAPEL. RYAN LOOKS EXTREMELY DOUBTFUL.)
RYAN - You think you saw him? Are you sure...?
AUDREY - (LOOKS INCREDULOUS) Am I sure? Well yeah, unless you were sitting in two places at the same time. I could see both of you from where I was sitting.
DARCY - Oh, I knew you wouldn't miss mother's memorial, Kevin.
KEVIN - Thanks, Darce. At least someone has a little faith in me.
DARCY - Of course we did, Kevin. We all knew you'd be here; we were just worried because we hadn't heard from you.
ARTHUR - So where have you been, Kevin? Why have you not contacted us?
KEVIN - I'm sorry about that, father. I had so many arrangements to make so I could stay a while, that I just couldn't call. I knew I'd be here in a couple of days anyway, so I thought it wasn't that urgent. (GLANCES AT RYAN) I didn't realize everyone would be panicking.
RYAN - (TIGHTLY) We weren't panicking. And it wouldn't have been that hard to make one phone call.
ARTHUR - What sort of arrangements did you have to make, Kevin?
KEVIN - I moved up one of my oral exams. It was due at the beginning of next week, so I asked if I could do it today, so I could stay home and not have to go back right away.
RYAN - You took an exam today? The day of your mother's funeral?
ARTHUR - How did you do?
KEVIN - I think it went very well. I tried to do the best I could. I thought...(HIS VOICE CATCHES VERY SLIGHTLY)...I thought mother would have wanted me to try...
RYAN - Gods! (TURNS AWAY IN DISGUST)
ARTHUR - (PUTS A HAND ON KEVIN'S SHOULDER) That must have been very difficult for you. I'm proud of you, son. And your mother would be too.
KEVIN - Thank you, father.
ARTHUR - Now that the exam is done, how long can you stay?
KEVIN - Well…I was going to talk to you about that. But I don't really think right now is the best time or place.
ARTHUR - Quite right. And I ought to greet our guests anyway, so I shouldn't spend overmuch time here. Will you be alright? No more disagreements? Ryan?
RYAN - (OVER HIS SHOULDER) I'll try to restrain myself.
ARTHUR - Please do. (SQUEEZES KEVIN'S SHOULDER AGAIN) Your hard work is over, son. Now just relax with the family, and our friends. Darcy, why don't you come with me? I think Justin would like you to be with him.
DARCY - (KISSES KEVIN'S CHEEK) I'm so glad you're home. We'll talk after all this is over, alright? (SHE FOLLOWS ARTHUR TOWARD SOME OF THE OTHER GUESTS)
(RYAN TURNS IN KEVIN'S DIRECTION AS THOUGH TO TALK TO HIM, BUT KEVIN HAS ALREADY TURNED TO AUDREY. RYAN HANGS AROUND OUTSIDE THE EDGE OF THE CONVERSATION.)
KEVIN - I think I owe you a debt of gratitude. You seem to have saved me from the lion's den. (HE HOLDS OUT HIS HAND.) Kevin Vickery. And you are...?
(AUDREY LOOKS AROUND IN A BIT OF A PANIC. PAIGE IS NOW TALKING TO SOMEONE A LITTLE DISTANCE AWAY. AUDREY TAKES A DEEP BREATH AND SHAKES KEVIN'S HAND GINGERLY.)
AUDREY - I’m Aida Fran -- I mean -- my name is Audrey Larson. I go to school part-time with Paige. Your cousin, that is. But -- I mean -- of course you knew that.
KEVIN - I seem to recall someone of that name, yes.
AUDREY - Sorry. I get a little nervous and sort of lose my head. Know what I mean?
KEVIN - (LAUGHS) I know what you mean. But you seemed cool as a cucumber when you jumped in and saved my neck. I owe you.
AUDREY - Well, it wasn't that bad. I wouldn't say I "saved your neck," exactly --
KEVIN - In this family, yes, I'd say that's exactly what you did. I'm glad you're here.
AUDREY - Oh. Well. I, uh, that's very nice of you to say.
KEVIN - So. You said "part-time"?
AUDREY - What? I mean -- pardon?
KEVIN - You said you went to school "part-time" with Paige. What do you do the rest of the time? But wait. Can I get you a drink or something? I'm sure there's some non-alcoholic punch over there. Come on, we'll find you something.
(HE PUTS HIS HAND ON THE SMALL OF HER BACK AND GUIDES HER TO THE REFRESHMENT TABLE. SHE IS SO ELECTRIFIED SHE CAN HARDLY TAKE HER EYES OFF HIM.)
KEVIN - So. What would you like, Audrey?
AUDREY - Anything. Anything you want.
KEVIN - Alright. (HE POURS HER A GLASS OF PUNCH AND GIVES IT TO HER. THEN HE CLINKS HIS GLASS WITH HERS AND THEY DRINK TOGETHER. SHE STARES AT HIM, ENTHRALLED, OVER THE RIM OF HER BLASS, AND HE SMILES BACK AT HER.)
II.B) RUMINATIONS RESTAURANT. KYLE AND CONNOR ARE JUST RELEASING HANDS AFTER SHAKING. TYLOR IS LOOKING ON, BEAMING HAPPILY.
CONNOR - So you're a good friend of Tylor's, are you?
TYLOR - We've been getting to know each other quite well lately, Connor. Kyle's in here a lot, in fact. I'm surprised you two haven't met before.
CONNOR - Well, you do tend to draw a crowd here, Tylor. I don't generally canvas the place, wondering who amongst the multitudes is a special friend of yours.
KYLE - And I don't start conversations with a lot of people...
TYLOR - I'll say he doesn't. Connor, you should have seen this guy when I first started trying to draw him out! (SHE PUTS A COMPANIONABLE HAND ON KYLE'S SHOULDER) He is so shy! I thought he was going to sink through the floor.
CONNOR - And you're so withdrawn and retiring yourself...
TYLOR - I suppose I can be a little overbearing, can't I? I was overbearing, wasn't I, Kyle?
KYLE - (LAUGHS, EMBARASSED) Oh, I don't know...
TYLOR - Of course I was. I sometimes think he's only my friend because he caved under the pressure.
KYLE - That's not true. You shouldn't put yourself down like that.
TYLOR - Was that a putdown?
KYLE - Yes. Stop it.
TYLOR - See how good he is for me, Connor? I'm thinking of appointing him my personal therapist.
KYLE - (LAUGHS AGAIN) I think your sanity's in danger, Tylor.
TYLOR - Well, that's nothing new so I don't have much to lose, do I?
KYLE - It's your funeral, I guess.
CONNOR - Well, this is all deeply fascinating, but I'm going to have to take my leave.
TYLOR - Connor's got a big evening planned.
KYLE - Does he...
CONNOR - Yes, and I've got a few more preparations to make before my friend arrives. I have to get everything just right.
KYLE - Sounds like a big night. Hope everything turns out.
CONNOR - So do I. (HE HOLDS OUT HIS HAND) Nice to meet you, Kyle.
KYLE - (SHAKING CONNOR'S HAND) Same here.
CONNOR - See you later, Tylor.
TYLOR - Bye, Connor. Good luck.
(CONNOR FLASHES HER A SMILE AND DEPARTS. TYLOR TURNS BACK TO KYLE.)
TYLOR - So Kyle, can I get you a table? Any special preference tonight?
KYLE - Not tonight. I can't stay, actually.
TYLOR - Oh too bad. Why not?
KYLE - I'm meeting with some friends. Nothing much, but I don't want to stand them up.
TYLOR - Of course not. But I'm going to miss your company. Are you sure you can't stay for one little drink, at least? On the house...?
KYLE - I don't know...
TYLOR - Please? Just one? What can I bribe you with?
KYLE - Oh, there's no need to resort to bribes, Tylor. (IAN WALKS IN THE DOOR AS HE'S SPEAKING) I suppose I might have time for one -- (HE SEES IAN, WHO IS LOOKING THE PLACE OVER AND HASN'T SPOTTED KYLE OR TYLOR YET) Oh. Tylor, I just remembered something I need to do before I meet my friends. I really can't stay.
TYLOR - Oh, I'm sorry about that. Maybe next --
KYLE - Can I use your restroom quickly before I leave?
TYLOR - Sure, of course --
KYLE - I'll make this up to you next time. I'm sorry, Tylor. (HE GIVES HER A QUICK PECK ON THE CHEEK AND RUSHES OUT THE BACK WAY)
TYLOR - (STARES AFTER HIM, HER FINGERS TOUCHING HER CHEEK WHERE HE KISSED IT) No...problem...
IAN - (APPROACHES HER. SHE HAS MOMENTARY DIFFICULTY CONCENTRATING ON HIM) Hi. Someone told me you own this place.
TYLOR - Uh…what? Excuse me...?
IAN - This place. You own it?
TYLOR - This place…the restaurant...? Oh. Yes. I own it.
IAN - (STARES AT HER FOR A MOMENT) I could go somewhere else.
TYLOR - Go...? Oh, I'm sorry. No, don't go, please. I'm letting myself be distracted and you shouldn't have to pay for that. Yes, I own this place; I'm Tylor Hirsch. What can I do for you?
IAN - I'm just looking for a place to eat, before my evening class. This place is near the university, so I thought I'd check it out. What sort of food do you do here?
TYLOR - I'll show you a menu. And you're right, with the university right across the street, this is one of the handiest places you can eat before a late class.
IAN - (LOOKS AROUND SCEPTICALLY) I don't suppose you do burgers here...?
TYLOR - Afraid not. So you're a burger man, are you? Tell you what. Take a look at the menu, and if it's really not what you want, I'll point out a couple of burger places down the street. But you might discover that health food can be pretty tasty.
IAN - (VERY DOUBTFULLY) Oh...I don't know...
TYLOR - Here... (SHE LEADS HIM TO THE BAR AND GRABS A MENU) Take a look. And if anything looks interesting, how about a hefty discount, to tempt you to give it a try?
IAN - (LAUGHS A LITTLE) Are you serious?
TYLOR - Why not? Maybe I'll call it part of my marketing budget. Anything to get new customers, and all that.
IAN - You've got a marketing budget?
TYLOR - I do now. What do you say?
IAN - (OPENS THE MENU AND STARTS TO PERUSE IT) I suppose I can't turn down an offer like that...
TYLOR - Good.
IAN - And I imagine everything in here is made of tofu and sprouts?
TYLOR - (LAUGHS DELIGHTEDLY) Hardly any of it, in fact. Here, I'll show you... (SHE LEANS OVER HIS ARM AND STARTS POINTING OUT VARIOUS ITEMS ON THE MENU)
(IN THE BACKGROUND, KYLE HAS COME BACK INTO VIEW AS TYLOR AND IAN TALKED. HE SLOWLY INCHES HIS WAY PAST THEM AND NOW MAKES HIS WAY TO THE DOOR. HE PAUSES A MOMENT, LOOKING WARILY BACK AT THE DUO -- PARTICULARLY AT IAN. THEN HE SLIPS OUT.)
II.C) VICKERY LIVING ROOM. ARTHUR IS TALKING TO BLYTHE AND ADRIAN, AND ALL THREE ARE WATCHING KEVIN AND AUDREY TALKING AT THE OTHER END OF THE ROOM.
ARTHUR - I don't quite know who she is or why she's here, but I'm glad she stepped in when she did, or Ryan and Kevin would probably be brawling all over the floor by now.
ADRIAN - Ryan flies off the handle fairly easily, doesn't he? A bit of a temper...?
ARTHUR - Lack of self-control is the problem. He gives in to his emotions rather than taking control of them. Kevin is much better at controlling himself. Ryan could take a few lessons from him. I wish he would.
ADRIAN - So who is the girl, uncle Arthur? I've never seen anything so outlandish in my life.
ARTHUR - I've no idea.
BLYTHE - I was hoping not to have to admit this, but she works for me.
ADRIAN - Excuse me? You allow...that...to work in one of the finest fashion establishments in the country? Blythe, I'm shocked.
BLYTHE - Trust me. She doesn't look like that when she models for me --
ADRIAN - She models for you? I thought you meant she was one of your sales staff.
ARTHUR - Isn't she a little...inexperienced…to model at this level?
BLYTHE - How polite you are, uncle. She's quite raw, yes, but she has the potential to be very good. See how she carries herself. When she stands in front of a camera, she's superb.
ADRIAN - Somehow I just can't look at... (HE WAVES HIS HAND IN AUDREY'S DIRECTION) ...and think "superb."
BLYTHE - But look past the clothes, Adrian. (HE RAISES HIS EYEBROWS) You know what I mean. When I put her in the right clothes she's dynamite.
ADRIAN - Maybe you should give them to her on permanent loan.
BLYTHE - Yes, maybe I should. She doesn't seem to be absorbing the fundamentals very well. She's got her mind on other things. She, shall we say, aspires too high. Perhaps something to take note of, uncle Arthur. Considering who she's talking to.
ARTHUR - Nothing to worry about. I keep an eye on these things.
ANASTASIA - (COMING UP BEHIND THEM) That's odd. I could have sworn Kevin was old enough to make his own decisions.
ARTHUR - It never hurts to look out for gold-diggers, Anastasia.
BLYTHE - Which she is, I assure you.
ANASTASIA - Well, I still think Kevin can protect himself against a star-struck high school student. And she might even be a nice girl.
ARTHUR - Excuse me, I see someone I need to speak to. (HE MOVES ON)
ADRIAN - Look, Anastasia, I'm sorry about your mother. I really loved aunt Patricia. I can't believe she's gone. How are you doing?
ANASTASIA - I think we're all a bit numb right now. It probably won't sink in until everybody leaves today. I'm glad you and Blythe are here.
BLYTHE - We wouldn't be anywhere else. You're all like family to us. Is there anything we can do to help?
ANASTASIA - So many people ask that, and I keep wishing I could say yes, you can help by... (SHE SHRUGS HELPLESSLY) But what can anyone do? I never realized before, how much we all have to handle this sort of thing alone.
ADRIAN - Well...if you need to talk or need someone to take some of your burdens off your hands, my sister and I are both here.
BLYTHE - For example, Anastasia, do you need any help at the gallery? My artistic talents may be utilized in the fashion industry rather than the art world proper, but I might manage to extend them into your field for a few days.
ADRIAN - And I could keep an eye on the business side if you need to take a few days off.
ANASTASIA - I know it's a tempting idea, but...
ADRIAN - Why not do it then?
BLYTHE - We won't let things fall apart, I promise.
ANASTASIA - Thanks, both of you. I appreciate the offer more than I can say. I just think I'd do better if I got back to work and kept myself busy. There's been enough brooding in this house since mother's death and I don't want to do it any more.
ADRIAN - Are you sure?
ANASTASIA - Yes. But I promise, I'm going to keep your offer in mind, just in case I turn out to need it after all. Is that good enough?
BLYTHE - Whatever helps you get through is "good enough," Anastasia. Just so you know you've got someone to lean on.
ANASTASIA - I don't want to do too much leaning right now, if I can help it. I have a feeling someone else might need to lean on me before too long, and I want to stay strong for him.
(SHE STARES ACROSS THE ROOM AT RYAN, WHO IS STILL HOVERING NEAR KEVIN AND AUDREY, WATCHING THEM TALK)
II.D) CONNOR HOLLISTER'S LIVING ROOM. CONNOR MOVES HERE AND THERE ACROSS THE ROOM PUTTING THE FINISHING TOUCHES TOO IT. THE DINING ROOM TABLE IS SET, COMPLETE WITH CANDLES WHICH HE LIGHTS. HE STRAIGHTENS A COUPLE OF THINGS, CHECKS THE WINE, AND TAKES ANOTHER LOOK OVER THE ROOM.
THERE IS A KNOCK ON THE DOOR. CONNOR SMILES IN ANTICIPATION AND WALKS OVER TO THE DOOR. HE OPENS IT, AND KYLE STANDS IN THE DOORWAY. THEY LOOK AT EACH OTHER FOR A LONG MOMENT.
KYLE - Hi, Connor.
CONNOR - Hi, Kyle. (HE REACHES FORWARD AND THEY EMBRACE AND KISS)
Next: Episode 2, Act 3
