SCARECROW AND MRS. KING
“The Ties That Bind Also Gag”
Written by Anne Riener
February 2012
“The Ties That Bind Also Gag”
Written by Anne Riener
February 2012
FADE IN:
ACT ONE
EXT. DOUGHNUT SHOP – EARLY MORNING
The scene opens and we see a doughnut shop on a street somewhere in Georgetown. Painted on the outside window are the words, ‘Donut Express.’
INT. DOUGHNUT SHOP – EARLY MORNING
We then see the interior of a very busy and crowded doughnut shop. Patrons are ordering doughnuts, coffee, and other treats. Bakery workers are filling the orders.
Note: With the order of doughnuts is included a complimentary copy of the morning newspaper, the Capitol Press.
THE CAMERA focuses on DOTTY who has made it up to the counter. She is talking to others at the counter, but no one seems to be listening.
DOTTY
I don’t usually buy doughnuts—not the healthiest breakfast choice.
She talks to a strange woman next to her, who just stares at her.
DOTTY (continued)
My mother said, "Dorothea, breakfast is the most important meal of the day."
The strange woman steps away to make her purchase. Dotty doesn't seem to notice.
DOTTY (continued)
That is the same philosophy I have tried to instill in my daughter and grandsons.
She turns around and stops, seeing that no one is listening. Dotty sighs, shakes her head, and finishes her sentence to no one in particular.
DOTTY (continued)
Although, Donut Express makes the best doughnuts. I thought I would surprise the ladies from my garden club this morning.
BAKERY WORKER
What can I get for you Ma’am?
DOTTY
A dozen assorted would be just fine.
At the same time. . .
In the background, we see LEE STETSON
He enters the doughnut shop, and nods to a lady behind the counter. She nervously begins to fill a pink box of doughnuts for him. She then glances around the room, slips what looks like a note into a newspaper and places it on top of the box of doughnuts.
MEN AT TABLE
Two men (who we later learn are VLAD AND LUKA SHAPIRO) are sitting inside the doughnut shop reading a newspaper and drinking coffee. They observe this activity.
ON LEE
The bakery worker hands Lee the doughnut box and begins to ring him up. Dotty is being rung up at the same time. Dotty takes out her checkbook and begins to write a check.
DOTTY
How much do I owe you?
BAKERY WORKER
$6.50, please.
(beat)
Sorry, Ma’am. We don’t accept checks.
DOTTY
Since when? I’ve always paid with a check.
(beat)
That is what is wrong with America—customers can’t be trusted writing checks.
(another beat)
Well, I don’t carry cash. I guess I’ll just have to pass.
Lee, observing the exchange, places a 20-dollar bill on the counter.
LEE
Here, this should cover both orders.
Dotty sees Lee for the first time.
DOTTY
Lee. What are you doing here?
(beat)
I thought you were not a breakfast person. Please tell me this is not want you usually have for breakfast. Don’t you
know. . .
LEE
. . . Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Yes, I know.
(beat)
No, buying doughnuts for the staff meeting at IFF.
DOTTY
You film people need to eat better.
LEE
Yes. You are right.
(beat)
Sorry I have to cut this short, Dotty, but I’m late.
DOTTY
Be seeing you for dinner tonight, right?
Lee nods his head and grabs the box.
Note: During the exchange, the boxes were mixed up. Lee heads out the door with his purchase and the two men sitting at the table stand up and leave at the same time.
DOTTY
That’s my daughter’s boyfriend. Don’t you think he’s an eleven?
No one is listening. She shrugs and grabs her box of doughnuts and the newspaper.
Through the glass display window, we see Lee being grabbed by the two men. They shove him into a cargo van. Dotty, of course, sees none of
this. . .
CUT TO
EXT. TENEMENT BUILDING – DAY
TO ESTABLISH a less then desirable section of urban Washington, D.C.
INT. TENEMENT BUILDING – BASEMENT – DAY
ON DOUGHNUT BOX, a big mess of several pages from a newspaper are scattered on a table.
WIDEN to reveal Lee sitting on an overturned crate, handcuffed with his hands behind his back. A dingy lamp swings above. Two men stand on either side of him. The first man speaks in a harsh voice, accented with a Russian inflection.
LUKA
Okay, Stetson. Where is it?
LEE
Where’s what?
LUKA
Don’t get cute with me. We were watching the drop site. We saw the bakery worker slip you a note. It is not here. Now where is it?
He pounds his fist on the table for emphasis, smashing the doughnuts in the process.
VLAD
(pouting)
Luka, I planned on eating those.
Luka gives Vlad a dirty look. He then takes out a switchblade and begins to clean his fingernails with it.
LUKA
It will be easier for you if you tell us what we want to know.
LEE
I already told you, I do not know what you are talking about. I am a director for International Federal Film. Perhaps you have seen some of my work? I stopped at Donut Express to pick up some doughnuts for a production meeting I had this morning. We are filming a new documentary on gypsy moths. We are calling it Gypsy Moths: Destructive Tree Caterpillars. It’s going to be enlightening.
(beat)
And I am late, so if you don’t mind.
LUKA
Lies!
(beat)
You are Lee Stetson. An American spy.
(another beat)
We know Silver Fox tried to contact you. Now where was this meet?
LEE
I do not know what you are talking about—the only meeting I have is this production meeting I am now very late for. . .
Luka strikes Lee and he recoils back.
LUKA
How many documentary film directors carry guns?
LEE
Are you kidding? Have you ever walked the city at night? I carry it for protection.
LUKA
Lies!! I am tied of all your lies.
(beat)
Fine. You can be our guest for a while, until you give us the information we seek. Perhaps, we can turn you into a double agent like your friend. We will need someone to replace him or I can execute you now on the spot.
He holds up the knife to Lee’s throat. Lee does not flinch.
LUKA (continued)
Think about it, Mr. Stetson.
Luka turns on his heels and heads out the door. Meanwhile, Vlad looks at Lee and then at the smashed doughnut box.
LUKA
(filtered)
Vlad, come on.
VLAD
Coming.
He quickly opens the doughnut box and takes out a ruined doughnut. Jelly filling coats the doughnut, but he shoves it into his mouth, before he exits.
Lee makes a disgusted face and we. . .
CUT TO
INT. GARDEN CLUB – STEP IN THYME – DAY
Dotty is in a room that looks very much like any room you would see at a senior center. There are display tables throughout the room and one of the tables has a couple of coffee carafes, Styrofoam cups, napkins, and packets of sugar and cream. In the center of the table is the pink doughnut box. Dotty grabs a doughnut from the box and takes a bite. She then grabs a napkin and wipes her lips.
There are other gardeners (male and female) mingling around in the room. Some are sitting in chairs talking to one another, and some are looking at various displays, while others are thumbing through catalogues and magazines.
A bespeckled grey-haired man, wearing glasses, close to the same age as Dotty approaches her. He/NOLAN grabs a doughnut and then pushes up his glasses.
NOLAN
Donut Express. My favorite! Did you happen to receive a copy the Capitol Press while you were there?
DOTTY
Yes, I believe it is under the box.
NOLAN
Do you mind if I grab the sports page?
DOTTY
No, go right ahead.
Dotty sees someone enter through the door.
DOTTY
There’s Carolyn. I must say hello. Pardon me, Nolan.
NOLAN
Sure, Dotty.
Dotty leaves. Nolan picks up the newspaper and rifles through it, until he finds the sports section. A note inside the newspaper falls to the FLOOR, not seen by anyone. . .
QUICK DISSOLVE
INT. GARDEN CLUB – ABOUT A HOUR LATER
Dotty and a couple of the other women, DIANE AND WENDY, from the Garden Club are cleaning up and chatting.
DOTTY
Did you see Jan’s hydrangeas? Did you ever see a more bluer blue?
(beat)
And look at these tomatoes and sweet red peppers Carolyn gave me. I’m going to make succotash. Amanda just loves succotash. She always has, even as a little girl.
DIANE
How is Amanda?
DOTTY
As busy as ever with that film company she works for.
WENDY
How is that hot new beau of hers?
(beat)
Any wedding bells in the foreseeable future?
Dotty rolls her eyes.
DOTTY
It sure would be nice to have a man around the house again, but I just do not know what they are waiting for. I think I need to take my daughter to the doctor to have her head examined.
Wendy and Diane laugh.
DIANE
Sorry, Dotty. I most take off; I have to watch the grandbabies tonight. It is Scott and Lisa’s Anniversary and I promised I would babysit.
WENDY
And Diane is my ride. Catch you next week.
DOTTY
Bye, ladies.
Both ladies leave and Dotty glances at the floor, she sees a folded piece of paper. She bends over to pick it up, opens it up and begins to read out loud.
INSERT NOTE
DOTTY
"I know who you are and have admired you from afar. We have a mutual friend who told me to contact you. I’d rather die then continue to live this lie. Must meet tonight - 5:00 p.m., Mount Vernon, the Lower Gardens. - S.A.”
BACK TO SCENE
DOTTY
S.A.
(beat)
Secret Admirer, hmm?
(another beat)
How romantic.
She glances around the room and notices two gentlemen, Nolan and EVAN, from her club sitting in the far corner talking. She looks at the note and then over at the table, then back at the note, before she places the note inside her purse and walks over to them.
DOTTY
Good afternoon, gentlemen.
The men look up as they watch her approach. They stand, and then offer her a seat.
NOLAN
Won’t you join us Dotty?
DOTTY
Don’t mind if I do.
Dotty sits down and Nolan pushes in her chair, then both Nolan and Evan sit down.
DOTTY
I hope I didn’t interrupt anything.
EVAN
No, Nolan and I were just engaging in some small talk.
DOTTY
What were you fellows talking about?
NOLAN
We were just discussing gardens.
DOTTY
Gardens.
(beat)
How interesting.
(another beat)
Any in particular? There are so many delightful gardens in the greater metropolitan area.
EVAN
Yes, and even though I live in a condominium, I pride myself on my balcony garden. My dwarf zonals were featured in Exceptional Balcony Gardens Magazine last month.
DOTTY
I saw the issue. I especially loved your apricot-colored flowers with the bronze foliage.
EVAN
Yes, the Vina.
DOTTY
Are either of you planning to visit any special ‘gardens’ soon?
EVAN
Umm. . . no.
(beat)
Did either of you see the Camptosaurus Rhizophyllus exhibit at the Botanical Gardens a couple years ago?
DOTTY
Camptosaurus Ritz. . .
EVAN
Camptosaurus Rhizophyllus, also known as the ‘walking fern.’ A small, but hardy evergreen fern, that usually grows on limestone or sandstone.
DOTTY
Well, you would know Professor James.
EVAN
Dotty, I told you to please call me Evan.
He winks at her.
DOTTY
Okay, Evan.
She places her hand on his arm.
NOLAN
(clears throat)
Yes, well, I did see the exhibit. I especially loved the water displays and the way the green, spear-shaped leaves crept along the stones. It was a great way to spend the evening.
DOTTY
Talking about the evening and it being a beautiful autumn day, I think an evening walk would be delightful.
NOLAN
(shyly)
An evening stroll with a beautiful woman is better than delightful.
Nolan pushes his eyeglasses up with his finger.
DOTTY
Mr. Aiken, you smooth talker you.
He blushes.
NOLAN
Are we on for 5 o’clock?
See blinks a couple of times.
DOTTY
Huh?
NOLAN
Bridge. The Morton’s. Friday night. 5:00 p.m.
DOTTY
Yes, Bridge. Of course.
(to Evan)
Speaking of Botanical gardens. . . have you ever visited the one at George Washington’s Estate?
EVAN
Historic Mount Vernon?
Dotty nods her head.
EVAN
Yes. Lovely this time of year. Although, not as beautiful as in the springtime; however, because of our Indian summer you might find aster, goldenrod, lilies, crocus, and monkshood still blooming.
NOLAN
Did you know there are four gardens at the estate? The botanical, the fruit, the upper, and the lower gardens. Besides a large assortment of flowers, the gardens also include several varieties of fruit trees, decorative boxwood, and vegetable beds.
Dotty reaches across the table, grabs both men’s hands, and squeezes them.
DOTTY
Such a wealth of information.
(beat)
Well, if you men don’t mind, I’ll be leaving your company. I had better go now. I need to get ready for my date.
EVAN
Who’s the lucky fellow?
DOTTY
As if you don’t know.
She winks at them both, then gets up, and leaves.
NOLAN
I wonder what that was all about?
Evan and Nolan both shrug, CLOSE ON THEM; we. . .
END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO
EXT. AMANDA'S HOUSE – AFTERNOON
CAMERA ZOOMS on 4247 house post sign and then focuses on the kitchen window.
INT. AMANDA'S HOUSE – KITCHEN – AFTERNOON
Amanda enters the kitchen carrying a couple bags of groceries. Dotty is sitting on a stool at the kitchen island, her hair in curlers.
AMANDA
Good afternoon, Mother.
DOTTY
Hello, Dear. How was Jamie’s orthodontist appointment?
AMANDA
His appointment went fine. Thank goodness, Dr. Reid was able to squeeze him in after Jamie broke another bracket. Don’t know what I am going to do with that boy if he keeps breaking them. He needs to lay off the popcorn and black licorice.
(beat)
He has a sweet tooth.
Amanda starts to put the groceries away.
DOTTY
Like someone else you know.
AMANDA
Yes, Jamie and Lee are two of a kind.
(sighs)
I just don’t understand why Jamie still won’t let Lee get close. In many ways, they are so much alike. They both love to read, are intelligent, sensitive, caring.
DOTTY
Maybe things would improve once Lee becomes a permanent fixture in this house.
(beat)
Not that I am meddling in your business.
AMANDA
Moth-er.
DOTTY
Don’t Mother me, Missy. Children need stability.
Amanda finishes putting the groceries away.
AMANDA
Yes, I know, but I don’t know how Jamie would react were Lee and I to marry. It’s one of the reasons why we have been taking things slow. Jamie’s my baby and we both know he's going to be the tougher one to crack.
DOTTY
He’s always been protective of you.
AMANDA
I know and even more so since the shoot. . . I mean the ‘accident.’
Amanda heaves a heavy sigh.
DOTTY
Amanda, I worry about you.
AMANDA
Me?
DOTTY
Yes, you.
Amanda sits down at the stool next to Dotty.
AMANDA
Okay, Mother. What’s going on?
Dotty reaches out and takes Amanda’s hand.
DOTTY
Don’t go borrowing trouble. Since the boys were born, you have always put their needs in front of your own.
AMANDA
Well, of course--
DOTTY
Let me finish. I think it is high time you put your needs first. Jamie will come around. You don’t need to worry about Phillip; he would be thrilled. He already thinks Lee walks on water. Lee has been a great influence on those boys this past year and is becoming a bigger part of their lives. In addition, I have never seen you happier then when you are with him.
AMANDA
You’re right, Mother.
(beat)
I love you.
DOTTY
And I love you.
AMANDA
What’s with the curlers?
DOTTY
I have a date tonight. Unfortunately, Mr. Emilio couldn't squeeze me in this afternoon.
AMANDA
Are you going out with Captain Curt?
DOTTY
No.
AMANDA
Really? Then who is this date with?
DOTTY
I don’t know.
AMANDA
(little concerned)
Moth-er. This isn’t someone you picked up at the jewelry store like the last time?
(beat)
What do you know about him?
DOTTY
Amanda, it’s okay. Whoever it is left me the sweetest note and signed it S.A., for secret admirer. Isn’t that romantic?
AMANDA
Who do you think left you the note?
DOTTY
Either Mr. Aiken or Mr. James?
AMANDA
(surprised)
Your fourth in Bridge or the Botany professor?
Dotty nods her head.
DOTTY
I won’t be here for dinner, so you’ll be on your own with the boys and Lee this evening. The boys said they would be coming home late. Phillip has soccer practice and Jamie was going to take pictures of the practice for the school paper. I’m so glad Lee gave Jamie that camera. It really has helped Jamie come out of his shell.
AMANDA
I know.
DOTTY
By the way, I ran into Lee this morning.
AMANDA
You saw Lee?
DOTTY
At Donut Express. He was picking up some doughnuts for a staff meeting. I thought both of you took the day off.
AMANDA
We did.
(beat)
Our boss must have called him in. Maybe, I better run to the office and make sure I’m not needed.
She grabs her car keys and her purse.
DOTTY
Wait, Amanda. I need the Jeep tonight. I’m meeting my date in Alexandria.
AMANDA
Alexandria?
DOTTY
Yes, we’ll be meandering through the fall foliage, maybe along the riverbank. Perfect weather for it, too, although I better bring my shawl. The night air can be a bit chilly.
Amanda bites her lip, thinking.
AMANDA
Okay, this is what we can do. After you finish getting ready for your date, you can drop me off at IFF. I’ll just get a ride home with Lee.
(beat)
Don’t worry about the boys. I’ll leave them a note and tell them they can have frozen pizza for dinner.
Dotty begins to take the curlers out of her hair.
DOTTY
Give me an hour to finish getting ready.
Dotty stands up and exits the kitchen, then heads up the stairs.
AMANDA
(calling after her)
All right, let me call Lee’s apartment and confirm he’s not there.
She looks toward the stairs to verify her mother can’t hear her conversation, then picks up the phone and dials.
AMANDA (continued)
(on phone)
Hello, Sweetheart. It’s me, Amanda. Just calling to see how your day went and making sure we are still on for dinner. Well, I guess you aren’t there. I’ll try the office. Love you.
She hangs up the phone and dials another number.
AMANDA (continued)
(on phone)
Hello, this is Amanda King. Is Lee Stetson there?
IFF OPERATOR (V.O.)
Scarecrow has the day off.
AMANDA
Are you sure he didn’t come in?
IFF OPERATOR (V.O.)
Mrs. King, I haven’t seen him all day.
(beat)
Can I take a message?
AMANDA
No, no message. Thank you.
She hangs up the phone.
AMANDA (contused)
Guess I’ll try his mobile.
She dials a third number. The phone just RINGS and RINGS. Amanda hangs up.
AMANDA
(under her breath)
Lee where are you?
Off her concerned look. . .
CUT TO
INT. TENEMENT BUILDING – BASEMENT – DAY
The CAMERA shows Lee still handcuffed and sitting on the crate. Luka and Vlad enter the room. Luka grabs another crate, moves it toward the table and then sits down. He takes out his knife and carves into the table. Vlad stands against the doorway, his arms crossed.
LUKA
Okay, Stetson. We’ve given you some time to think. Now, it’s time to talk.
LEE
I have nothing to tell you.
LUKA
Well, that is too bad to hear, because I think we might have to be more. . . how do you say it? Oh, yes, be more persuasive.
He motions to Vlad to stand behind Lee, and he complies.
LUKA (continued)
Your friend did not cooperate at first either. However, he soon found out we can be very persistent. It was easy to get Silver Fox to double-cross MI-6 and you Americans, once we were able to find his Achilles' heel—a little thing called substance dependence and the need to continue to feed his addiction. Let’s see if we can find yours. What’s your weakness, Scarecrow?
(beat; thinking)
I know torture won’t work on you. Maybe drugs? Maybe sleep deprivation?
(another beat; he sticks the knife blade into the table)
On the other hand, perhaps if you can’t be persuaded to join us, maybe your lovely partner will.
Lee does not say anything.
LUKA
What is her name again?
(beat)
Oh, yes, Mrs. King.
LEE
(through gritted teeth)
Leave Amanda out of this.
Luka smiles, sinisterly.
LUKA
Ah, I found your soft spot, didn’t I?
VLAD
(laughs)
Yes, I think you did, Luka.
Vlad reaches around Lee, grabs a smashed doughnut and stuffs it into his mouth. Both Lee and Luka give him a disgusted look.
VLAD
What? They’re still good even though a little smashed. Besides, I’m hungry and Donut Express makes the best jelly-filled doughnuts.
(to Lee)
Want one?
LEE
Um, no thanks.
Vlad shrugs.
VLAD
Your loss.
Vlad reaches for another doughnut and Luka slaps his hand.
LUKA
Would you stop with the doughnuts?
(to Lee)
I’m not going to ask again. I know he tried to contact you. Where were you supposed to meet? Where? When?
Lee is silent.
Luka stands up and begins to pace the room.
LUKA
(to himself)
We searched him, we searched the doughnuts, and we searched the newspaper. He didn’t have time to pass it on to anyone else. . .
(long pause)
Wait. . . the woman at the counter.
He rubs his hand across his stubbled chin.
ON LEE
Lee is surprised.
LUKA
Yes, the blonde-haired woman. Not bad looking either. Like them a little older, don’t you, Scarecrow?
LEE
You watch it. . . that’s my--
Lee holds his tongue.
FULL SHOT
LUKA
Hit a nerve, I see.
(beat)
Who is she?
Again, Lee is silent. His jaw twitches.
LUKA (continued)
Oh, yes, the perfect spy. No emotion. No expression.
(beat)
No problem. Vlad, keep an eye on our guest, I think it’s time for some casual surveillance and I think I’ll start at the doughnut shop. I will find this woman and when I do, I will kill her.
CLOSE UP ON LEE
Off Lee’s worried expression; we. . .
END OF ACT TWO
ACT THREE
EXT. THE AGENCY – GEORGETOWN ENTRANCE – EARLY EVENING
ZOOM on IFF sign
INT. THE AGENCY – BILLY’S OFFICE
BILLY MELROSE is sitting down at his desk doing paperwork when the phone RINGS.
BILLY
Yes.
(beat)
Okay, patch him through.
(another beat)
Melrose.
EXT. PAYPHONE – GEORGE WASHINGTON ESTATE – EVENING
CLOSE UP
A relatively handsome man with graying hair, SHANE ANDERSON, speaks on the phone. (Think Charles Shaughnessy). He has a distinctive British accent. The camera WIDENS to reveal an old country estate setting. We see the grounds, gardens, trees, and pathways. Few people mingle around.
SHANE
This is Silver Fox. What’s my status?
INTERCUT BETWEEN BILLY AND SHANE
BILLY
Silver Fox, I don’t understand. What do you mean what is your status? Isn’t Scarecrow there?
SHANE
No. He’s not here yet. He must be late.
(beat; checks watch)
I want to come back home.
BILLY
Are you willing to fuss up to your crimes?
SHANE
Yes, the Shapiro brothers had me in a. . . let’s say an awkward position.
BILLY
I understand they can play rough.
SHANE
Yes, they can. I want to add, I apologize to the United States government and MI-6 for crimes against our two countries.
(beat)
However, I thought one of Lee’s family was supposed to give him a message to meet me here.
BILLY
Did you deliver the message?
SHANE
Yes.
BILLY
Then somehow, we are off the wire.
(beat)
Where are you?
(another beat)
I’m coming to get you.
SHANE
No.
(beat)
I can’t stay. It appears that maybe Scarecrow has been compromised. I shall be in contact again shortly.
Shane looks up and sees a woman approaching the gardens. She gives the impression she is looking for someone.
SHANE (continued)
Well, well, well, Billy. It seems your tastes in agents has improved. Who is this vision of loveliness? Must be Scarecrow’s partner. I approve.
(beat)
Silver Fox out.
Shane hangs up the phone.
INT. BILLY’S OFFICE
BILLY
(into the phone)
Wait, Shane.
(beat)
Damn!
Billy hangs up the phone and dials an extension.
INT. Q-BUREAU
Amanda is busying herself, putting away files when the phone RINGS. She quickly picks it up.
AMANDA
Sweetheart, are you okay? I’ve been so worried about you.
BILLY
Amanda is that you?
INTERCUT BETWEEN AMANDA AND BILLY
AMANDA
Sorry, Sir. I thought you were someone else.
BILLY
Really, Amanda, there is no need to explain.
(beat)
However, have you heard from Lee today?
AMANDA
No. What assignment did the Agency send him on? Was it dangerous? Why didn’t he call me?
(beat; takes a deep breath)
Sir, we were both supposed to have the day off and now I am sitting here wondering what has happened to my partner. I believe I have a need. . . no, I have a right to know where he is.
BILLY
Yes, you do have a right to know.
(beat)
However, I don’t know.
AMANDA
(raises her voice)
You don’t know?!
She sits down hard in the chair behind her desk and takes a few deep breaths.
AMANDA
What can you tell me?
BILLY
I’m sorry to ruin your day off together. . . umm, I mean your time off, but something came up.
(beat)
Routine, really. Not dangerous at all. He was going to be slipped some information, and then bring in a rogue agent.
(another beat)
He never showed up at the meeting place.
AMANDA
Sir, please tell me what is going on.
BILLY
I’ll be upstairs in the Q-Bureau in a couple minutes.
He hangs up the phone, grabs his jacket off the back of his chair and heads out of the office.
QUICK CUT
EXT. GARDENS – EVENING
The sun is beginning to set and we see Dotty wandering around the gardens. She looks a bit crestfallen, as she believes she may have been stood up. Shane comes up behind her.
SHANE
Lovely evening.
Dotty smiles up at him.
DOTTY
Oh yes, yes it is.
SHANE
However, not as beautiful as the image in front of me now.
He takes her hand and kisses it.
DOTTY
Have we met?
SHANE
Only in my dreams.
DOTTY
Well, aren’t you suave and debonair?
(beat)
I couldn’t help but notice your accent. . . are you British?
He smiles at her.
SHANE
Also very perceptive.
She blushes.
DOTTY
I know a Lady from England—a Lady Farnsworth.
SHANE
Yes, I know Emily.
DOTTY
You know Emily Farnsworth? Small world.
(beat)
Of course, when I first met her, I did not realize she was a Lady.
SHANE
(smiles)
Yes, Emily told me that story.
Dotty heads toward a park bench.
DOTTY
Won’t you come join me and sit down? I was supposed to be meeting a man this evening, but I think I was stood up.
SHANE
I can’t image who could possibly stand up a beautiful woman as yourself. Are you sure you are not here for me?
He sits down next to her.
DOTTY
You really are a sweet talker.
(beat)
Let’s see, the note said 5:00 p.m., Lower Gardens, tonight.
SHANE
That’s right. Did Lee Stetson send you?
DOTTY
Oh, you know Lee, too.
SHANE
By name and reputation only.
DOTTY
Well, people in your business do get around a lot.
SHANE
Yes, we do get around a lot.
(beat)
I’m sorry, how very rude of me not to introduce myself. My name is Shane Anderson and you might be?
DOTTY
Dorothea West, but everyone calls me Dotty.
Shane shakes her hand.
SHANE
Dotty, it’s a pleasure to meet you.
DOTTY
I wonder why the Lower Garden when the Upper Gardens are far prettier?
SHANE
More cover, my dear.
DOTTY
(pauses for a moment; shakes her head)
Cover, of course.
SHANE
Closer to the river, too.
(beat)
Also reminds me of home. The lower estate garden is a wonderful example of a formal English kitchen garden.
(another beat)
And different from the usual seedy places.
DOTTY
(clueless)
Must be comforting to find a place that reminds you of home.
(beat)
By the way, I like your trench coat.
SHANE
Thank you.
DOTTY
The estate will be closing soon, or I would ask if you would like to stroll down by the river.
Shane does not say anything.
DOTTY
I’m sorry was that too forward of me?
Shane touches her arm.
SHANE
No. Not at all.
INT. Q-BUREAU – LATER THAT EVENING
Amanda is sitting on the sofa inside the Q-Bureau when she hears a KNOCK on the door.
AMANDA
Come in, it’s not locked.
Billy enters the room.
BILLY
I know better to knock first when entering the Q-Bureau.
Amanda blushes and Billy sits down on the edge of Amanda’s desk.
BILLY (continued)
How you holding up, Amanda?
AMANDA
Not well, Sir. I’m worried about Lee.
She schools her features and squares her shoulders.
AMANDA (continued)
What can you tell me?
BILLY
Early this morning we received a phone call from a rogue MI-6 agent, Shane Anderson, codename Silver Fox. He called to say he wanted to come back in and personally asked for Lee Stetson, saying he was friends with Emily Farnsworth. The assignment was a milk run really. Lee was supposed to be slipped some information from one of his ‘family’ and then meet this agent at the arranged meeting place.
AMANDA
Do you think this agent is responsible for Lee’s disappearance?
BILLY
I don’t think so. He called here letting me know Lee missed the meet.
(beat)
I also talked with Emily. She does know Shane and feels he won’t do Lee any harm, but also knows he has turned sides.
(another beat)
I did put an BOLO out on Lee’s Corvette. I hope someone spots it soon. It will help us narrow down what might have happened to Scarecrow.
(another beat)
He hasn’t been in contact with you all day?
AMANDA
No, but he knew I was busy running errands all morning. Had to run to the bank, pick up the dry cleaning, go grocery shopping, and take Jamie to the orthodontist.
(beat)
The first I realized something was up was when Mother said she ran into Lee at the doughnut shop and I realized he must be on an assignment.
(another beat)
I called Lee’s apartment and got no answer. He didn’t answer his car phone either. I then called the Agency and the operator told me Lee had not been here all day.
BILLY
That is correct. I contacted him early this morning at his apartment. He didn’t come in to the Agency.
The phone RINGS.
BILLY
Probably for me. I told the switchboard to forward my calls here.
Billy picks up the phone.
BILLY
Melrose.
Billy grabs a notepad and pencil off Amanda’s desk and writes something down.
BILLY (continued)
Thank you for letting us know. No, leave his car there. I will have someone from the Agency pick it up.
He hangs up the phone.
BILLY (continued)
D.C. Police found Lee’s car on 34th street.
AMANDA
That’s only a few blocks from here.
Amanda grabs her coat and purse.
BILLY
I’m going with you.
(beat)
We’ll have to stop by the Motor Pool and get a slim jim to jimmy the door. .
Amanda reaches into her purse and pulls out a set of car keys.
AMANDA
No need. I have keys for Lee’s car.
Billy smiles.
BILLY
I won’t even ask why you have a copy of Scarecrow’s keys.
Amanda blushes again.
They both leave the Q-Bureau and the door shuts.
CLOSE UP ON DOOR.
QUICK CUT
EXT. D.C. STREET – LEE’S CORVETTE – EVENING
ZOOM on parking sign. The sign reads 2-hour parking.
The streetlights are just beginning to turn on when the camera finds Amanda inside Lee’s car. Billy is standing on the curb next to the Corvette. He reaches across the window and grabs a parking ticket that has been placed under the wiper.
Amanda climbs out of the car and shuts the door.
AMANDA
Nothing here.
Billy hands her the parking ticket.
BILLY
Parking ticket, time stamped 10:05 a.m. Scarecrow’s car has been parked here all day.
He takes out his satellite phone and dials a number.
BILLY (continued)
(on phone)
Leatherneck, have someone from Motor Pool pick up Scarecrow’s car. It is parked on 34th Street. Have your boys go over the car. Lee Stetson is missing, although I doubt you will find anything usual.
Billy hangs up the phone. Amanda glances around the street and notices the building across the street.
AMANDA
Donut Express.
(beat)
One of Lee’s ‘family’ works here.
(another beat)
Susan Clark.
(another beat)
Susan must have been the one who passed the information on to Lee. Let’s see if she’s still at work.
Amanda and Billy walk across the street and into the doughnut shop.
INT. DONUT EXPRESS
Susan comes out of the backroom wearing street clothes. She notices Amanda.
SUSAN
Hey, Amanda. Just got off work and I’m headed home. I could probably grab you some day old doughnuts for you and your boys.
AMANDA
That’s very kind of you. . . but actually, I’m looking for Lee. You haven’t seen him today?
Susan glances around the shop, which is mostly empty at this time of evening. She looks over at Billy unsure if she should say something. Amanda follows Susan’s glance.
AMANDA
It’s okay. He’s our boss.
Susan nods her head.
SUSAN
I saw him this morning. I slipped the message into the newspaper and handed it to him with the box of doughnuts and he left. Why?
AMANDA
Lee is missing and this is the last place he was seen.
(beat)
Was anyone watching him?
Susan shakes her head.
AMANDA
Did he talk with anyone?
SUSAN
No.
(beat)
Wait. Yes, there was this older woman at the counter. He paid for her doughnuts.
BILLY
He paid for her doughnuts?
SUSAN
I wasn’t helping her, Becky was. But I think she didn’t have enough money. They acted as if they knew each other.
BILLY
She didn’t follow him out, did she?
SUSAN
No, I think she left a few minutes after him. I didn’t see much else. The place was busy with early morning customers. Sorry, I can’t be of more help.
(beat)
Do you need anything else? I have a date tonight and I don’t want to be late.
AMANDA
Date?
BILLY
What?
AMANDA
Susan, one more question. Did you happen to see what was written on the note?
SUSAN
I don’t like to snoop, so no I did not read the note, but it was signed S.A.
AMANDA
Okay, thanks, Susan.
Susan leaves the doughnut shop.
BILLY
Not much to go on.
(beat)
And we still don’t know who is with Shane Anderson right now. Not you or Francine, nor any other female agent from field section.
AMANDA
S.A.
(beat)
S.A. Date. Date!
(another beat)
Oh, my gosh!
BILLY
What?
AMANDA
Mother said she ran into Lee at the doughnut shop this morning. What if Lee had paid for her doughnuts and she grabbed the wrong box?
Billy begins to rub his temples.
BILLY
Please tell me your mother did not become involved in another Agency operation?
AMANDA
I’m sure it was quite by accident.
BILLY
It always is.
AMANDA
She picked up doughnuts for her garden club this morning.
Amanda is quiet for a few moments while she thinks.
AMANDA (continued)
Secret admirer.
BILLY
Huh?
AMANDA
Secret admirer. Mother said she received a note from a man who had signed it S.A., which she thought meant secret admirer. . .
(statement; more to herself)
. . . but what if it stood for Shane Anderson.
BILLY
That would mean your mother. . .
AMANDA
My mother is secretly meeting a spy.
CLOSE UP ON AMANDA
Off Amanda’s expression; we. . .
END OF ACT THREE
ACT FOUR
EXT. HIGHWAY – EVENING
ON SEDAN
The scene opens to reveal Billy and Amanda inside his sedan heading down the highway.
INT. SEDAN
BILLY
Think, Amanda.
AMANDA
Mother said she needed the Jeep because she was meeting her date in Alexandria.
BILLY
Alexandria?
AMANDA
Yes. She also said she needed her shawl because she thought it might be chilly this evening walking in the gardens by the river.
BILLY
River in Alexandria?
(beat)
The Potomac.
AMANDA
Potomac? Gardens? Alexandria?
She bites her lip.
AMANDA (continued)
Historic Mount Vernon, that’s where they must be.
BILLY
Call the Agency. Tell them to send backup to the George Washington Estate.
He hands her his satellite phone.
AMANDA
That tells us where Mother and Shane are, but we’re still not any closer to knowing what happened to Lee or explain where Lee is.
Billy puts his hand on her shoulder.
BILLY
We’ll find him.
AMANDA
Thank you, Sir. Yes, we will.
BILLY
Amanda, when we get to the estate, find your mother and get her out of there. Shane should not be a problem; however, remember not to trust him. He says he wants to come home, but he is a double agent.
AMANDA
Right.
She nods her head and then dials the Agency phone number and puts the phone to her ear.
CUT TO
EXT. LOWER GARDENS – LATER THAT EVENING
It is now night, Dotty and Shane are walking down a path along an ancient espalier fence. They are heading toward the paddock and stable on the southern border of the estate. Shane has linked arms with Dotty.
DOTTY
And you never married?
SHANE
Sadly, no. In my line of work, it is hard to settle down.
(beat)
One of my biggest regrets was not finding the right woman and getting married, raising a family.
(another beat)
I am looking forward to getting out of this business once and for all. This old dog is tired of the fight.
DOTTY
Mr. Anderson. You are far from old and you are only as old as you feel.
SHANE
Dotty, please call me Shane.
DOTTY
That crazy business of yours through, with all the late hours, and the running around, traveling abroad, I am not surprised you are burned out.
(beat)
Lee works too hard as well. I hope someday to see him settle down and married to my daughter. I think he would make an excellent husband and stepfather.
SHANE
I hope he gets out, before it’s too late.
Shane suddenly grabs his shoulder and winces in pain. He then takes out a pill bottle, opens it and pops a pill in his mouth, which he dry swallows. He then looks over at Dotty.
SHANE (continued)
Damn things will kill me yet.
DOTTY
Are you okay?
SHANE
No. I’m falling apart.
Shane heaves a heavy sigh.
SHANE (continued)
It started with one surgery, then another, and another. Then men in white lab coats pushing pills for pain, pills to relax, pills to sleep.
(beat)
At first I told myself I was not a drug addict, and it was okay—I could quit at anytime. However, I only was lying to myself—and soon I realized I couldn’t function without them.
(another beat)
I don’t know why I am telling a stranger all this?
DOTTY
Obviously it’s been weighing heavy on your mind for a while.
Shane nods his head.
SHANE
Yes, it has. Thank you so much for taking the time to listen Dotty. You are a genuine lady.
They both stop and are just a few inches from each other. Shane leans in to give her a gentle kiss when they both hear a sound and jump apart.
DOTTY
What was that?
SHANE
I don’t know, but wait here. I’m going to check it out.
Shane takes off around the horse stable.
Dotty standing alone along the pathway, hears another sound.
DOTTY
Shane?
She takes a step toward the fruit trees to investigate.
THE CAMERA focuses on Amanda hiding in the shadows.
DOTTY (continued)
Amanda?
AMANDA
Hello, Mother. Beautiful evening. Mount Vernon is just lovely this time of year.
DOTTY
Are you all right? You seem a little nervous.
AMANDA
Fine, Mother, really. . .
DOTTY
Oh, Amanda, I met a wonderful man tonight. He's British and a true gentleman, although he did tell me he has some personal problems, but is trying to get his life back on track.
(beat)
What are you doing here? I thought the grounds were closed.
AMANDA
Oh, Mother, we have our ways.
DOTTY
Huh?
They both turn toward the direction of gunfire.
DOTTY (continued)
That sounds like gunfire.
AMANDA
(nervous)
I think it’s fireworks, Mother.
(beat)
You know kids and their fireworks and being so close to the nation’s capital we hear fireworks all year round.
(another beat)
But I think we may want to leave now.
DOTTY
Wait a moment, Amanda. I want to say goodbye to Shane.
AMANDA
(under her breath)
Wait much longer and all will be revealed.
Dotty shrugs and from the corner of her eye she sees Shane walking back toward her.
DOTTY
Here he comes.
She waves him over.
DOTTY (continued)
Shane, this is my daughter Amanda. Amanda, Shane Anderson.
AMANDA
Pleasure to meet you.
SHANE
Likewise.
He shakes her hand.
SHANE (continued)
Would you mind if I have a moment alone with your mother?
AMANDA
No, go right ahead. I need to be leaving anyway. See you at home, Mother.
Amanda exits.
SHANE
My ride is here. I must go away for a while. I hope when all this is over I can see you again.
DOTTY
Of course.
(sincerely)
You are a stronger man then you give yourself credit.
He smiles at her, leans down and kisses her tenderly.
THE CAMERA WIDENS to reveal Billy and Amanda watching this moment.
AMANDA
I guess Mother is none the wiser.
(beat)
And Luka Shapiro is in Agency custody.
BILLY
Yes, and singing like a jailbird.
Billy reaches out and puts his hand on Amanda’s shoulder.
BILLY (continued)
He and his brother are holding Lee hostage at an abandoned house at this address.
He hands her a piece of paper.
BILLY (continued)
Let’s go get your partner.
AMANDA
Yes, Sir.
Amanda and Billy walk down the moonlit path.
CUT TO
EXT. TENEMENT BUILDING – NIGHT
A pizza delivery van pulls up in front of the building. The driver gets out of the van, carrying a pizza delivery bag. The driver is wearing a jacket and baseball cap with the company’s logo.
After walking to the door, she BUZZES the door buzzer. We see it is Amanda.
We hear Vlad voice over the intercom.
VLAD (v.o.)
Da.
Amanda standing at the door, chewing a piece of gum. She blows it into a bubble and then pops it.
AMANDA
Pizza delivery.
VLAD (V.O.)
I didn’t order any pizza. You must have the wrong address.
AMANDA
No, Sir. I have the correct address right here. A pepperoni, olives, with extra cheese for a Mr. Shar-pe-o. (She slaughters the name, mispronouncing it horribly).
VLAD (V.O.)
That’s Shapiro.
AMANDA
Yeah, whatever. Listen, Buddy. Do you want the pizza or not, I haven’t got all day?
VLAD (V.O.)
Okay. Okay. I’ll buzz you through.
BUZZ and CLINK sound
Amanda pushes the door open. She props the door open for other agents to sneak in behind her.
INT. TENEMENT BUILDING – FRONT DOOR – NIGHT
Amanda knocks on the door.
We hear a series of LOCKS being unlocked and then a SLIDE, before Vlad opens the door, peering around, just outside the threshold.
VLAD
What do I owe you?
Amanda opens the pizza delivery bag, and pulls out her gun and points it at Vlad.
AMANDA
Nothing, except my partner. Thank you.
Dejected, Vlad holds up his hands. While the Agency team storms the building.
CLOSE UP ON VLAD, and we. . . FREEZE FRAME
END OF ACT FOUR
TAG
EXT. AMANDA'S HOUSE – EARLY EVENING (NEXT DAY)
The camera zooms on Lee’s Corvette parked next to the curb out front of Amanda’s house.
INT. AMANDA’S HOUSE – KITCHEN – EARLY EVENING
AMANDA (O.C.)
What happens to Shane now?
LEE (O.C.)
He’s headed back to London to face charges.
Lee and Amanda enter the kitchen. She turns on the light.
AMANDA
Will he get the help he needs?
She takes off her coat and hands it to Lee. He takes her coat and his own and steps out to hang them up in the coat closet.
LEE (O.C.)
He will be sent to a treatment facility to start managing his drug addiction.
AMANDA
Really it’s too bad he didn’t go to his supervisors to begin with when the Russians first approached him.
LEE
You know what they say about hindsight.
(beat)
I know he deeply regrets his decisions, but somehow I feel that maybe his superiors may have turned a blind eye on the problem.
AMANDA
And I hope you learned a valuable lesson, Stetson.
LEE
Me?
AMANDA
Yes, you.
She pokes him in the stomach with her finger.
AMANDA (continued)
First, never assume any assignment is routine. Always have backup and never forget your half rake.
LEE
(like a scolded child)
Yes, Ma’am.
(beat)
I think the smell of doughnuts is going to churn my stomach for a long time.
He shakes his head.
AMANDA
Good, then possibly I can finally get you to eat a healthy breakfast.
LEE
Maybe we can start tomorrow.
(beat)
If I’m good this evening, do you promise to come over and give me a full body massage? I still don’t have complete feeling in my arms, hands, and shoulders after being tied up all day yesterday.
AMANDA
Poor baby.
She kisses him quickly.
AMANDA
I’m sure something can be arranged.
(beat)
You know the house is awfully quiet.
(hollers)
Mother, Fellas, Lee and I are home.
There is no answer.
She shrugs and places her purse on the counter, when she notices a note. She reads the note.
AMANDA
(to Lee)
Mother left to pick up the boys and run a couple of errands.
Lee raises an eyebrow.
LEE
Alone at last.
AMANDA
Looks like it.
Lee grabs her and pulls her close. He gingerly kisses her lips and then kisses her neck and pushes her hair aside and kisses her collarbone. She sighs in contentment. He looks up at her again and lowers his mouth to hers, kissing her deeply. When they are suddenly startled by a door closing, they break apart.
Dotty enters the kitchen with PHILLIP and JAMIE right behind her.
JAMIE
Thanks a lot, Dog Breath, it was my turn to sit up front and choose which radio station we listened to on the drive home.
PHILLIP
Tough, I called shot gun. Not my fault you are slow, Four Eyes.
AMANDA
Fellas! Not another unkind word to each other or the two of you are grounded from the TV for a week.
PHILLIP/JAMIE
(unison)
Yes, Mom.
DOTTY
Hello, Dears.
(beat)
Lee, are you staying for dinner?
LEE
Yes, Ma’am.
Dotty checks the oven.
DOTTY
Dinner should be ready in about five minutes. Why don’t you go wash up?
(to Phillip and Jamie, who can’t stop touching each other)
You, too.
The family hustles around the kitchen getting ready.
AMANDA
Phillip, I believe it is your turn to set the table.
PHILLIP
No, it’s Jamie’s turn.
JAMIE
Is not. I did it both Sunday and Monday night, remember?
AMANDA
I think Jamie is right, Phillip. Now, get going.
She playfully swats him. Phillip reluctantly grabs some plates and silverware and disappears into the dining room. Dotty rolls her eyes and looks toward Lee, who has opened the refrigerator, looking for something to nibble on.
DOTTY
(to Lee)
Boys!
She closes the refrigerator door and gives Lee another sharp look. She then reaches behind the counter.
DOTTY (continued)
I stopped for dessert while I was out.
She produces a pink doughnut box.
DOTTY (continued)
After all, Donut Express makes the best doughnuts.
Lee turns green.
LEE
I think I'll pass on dessert tonight.
(beat)
I’m sorry; all of a sudden, I’m not feeling very well.
AMANDA
Sweetheart, why don’t you use the master bathroom?
He nods his head and quickly exits.
INT. DINING ROOM
The rest of the family settles down at the dinner table.
DOTTY
What's wrong with Lee?
AMANDA
Well, Mother, I think you were finally successful in changing one of his breakfast eating habits—no more stale rolls or donuts for him.
CLOSE UP ON DOTTY
Dotty shrugs and we. . . FREEZE FRAME
FADE OUT:
THE END
ACT ONE
EXT. DOUGHNUT SHOP – EARLY MORNING
The scene opens and we see a doughnut shop on a street somewhere in Georgetown. Painted on the outside window are the words, ‘Donut Express.’
INT. DOUGHNUT SHOP – EARLY MORNING
We then see the interior of a very busy and crowded doughnut shop. Patrons are ordering doughnuts, coffee, and other treats. Bakery workers are filling the orders.
Note: With the order of doughnuts is included a complimentary copy of the morning newspaper, the Capitol Press.
THE CAMERA focuses on DOTTY who has made it up to the counter. She is talking to others at the counter, but no one seems to be listening.
DOTTY
I don’t usually buy doughnuts—not the healthiest breakfast choice.
She talks to a strange woman next to her, who just stares at her.
DOTTY (continued)
My mother said, "Dorothea, breakfast is the most important meal of the day."
The strange woman steps away to make her purchase. Dotty doesn't seem to notice.
DOTTY (continued)
That is the same philosophy I have tried to instill in my daughter and grandsons.
She turns around and stops, seeing that no one is listening. Dotty sighs, shakes her head, and finishes her sentence to no one in particular.
DOTTY (continued)
Although, Donut Express makes the best doughnuts. I thought I would surprise the ladies from my garden club this morning.
BAKERY WORKER
What can I get for you Ma’am?
DOTTY
A dozen assorted would be just fine.
At the same time. . .
In the background, we see LEE STETSON
He enters the doughnut shop, and nods to a lady behind the counter. She nervously begins to fill a pink box of doughnuts for him. She then glances around the room, slips what looks like a note into a newspaper and places it on top of the box of doughnuts.
MEN AT TABLE
Two men (who we later learn are VLAD AND LUKA SHAPIRO) are sitting inside the doughnut shop reading a newspaper and drinking coffee. They observe this activity.
ON LEE
The bakery worker hands Lee the doughnut box and begins to ring him up. Dotty is being rung up at the same time. Dotty takes out her checkbook and begins to write a check.
DOTTY
How much do I owe you?
BAKERY WORKER
$6.50, please.
(beat)
Sorry, Ma’am. We don’t accept checks.
DOTTY
Since when? I’ve always paid with a check.
(beat)
That is what is wrong with America—customers can’t be trusted writing checks.
(another beat)
Well, I don’t carry cash. I guess I’ll just have to pass.
Lee, observing the exchange, places a 20-dollar bill on the counter.
LEE
Here, this should cover both orders.
Dotty sees Lee for the first time.
DOTTY
Lee. What are you doing here?
(beat)
I thought you were not a breakfast person. Please tell me this is not want you usually have for breakfast. Don’t you
know. . .
LEE
. . . Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Yes, I know.
(beat)
No, buying doughnuts for the staff meeting at IFF.
DOTTY
You film people need to eat better.
LEE
Yes. You are right.
(beat)
Sorry I have to cut this short, Dotty, but I’m late.
DOTTY
Be seeing you for dinner tonight, right?
Lee nods his head and grabs the box.
Note: During the exchange, the boxes were mixed up. Lee heads out the door with his purchase and the two men sitting at the table stand up and leave at the same time.
DOTTY
That’s my daughter’s boyfriend. Don’t you think he’s an eleven?
No one is listening. She shrugs and grabs her box of doughnuts and the newspaper.
Through the glass display window, we see Lee being grabbed by the two men. They shove him into a cargo van. Dotty, of course, sees none of
this. . .
CUT TO
EXT. TENEMENT BUILDING – DAY
TO ESTABLISH a less then desirable section of urban Washington, D.C.
INT. TENEMENT BUILDING – BASEMENT – DAY
ON DOUGHNUT BOX, a big mess of several pages from a newspaper are scattered on a table.
WIDEN to reveal Lee sitting on an overturned crate, handcuffed with his hands behind his back. A dingy lamp swings above. Two men stand on either side of him. The first man speaks in a harsh voice, accented with a Russian inflection.
LUKA
Okay, Stetson. Where is it?
LEE
Where’s what?
LUKA
Don’t get cute with me. We were watching the drop site. We saw the bakery worker slip you a note. It is not here. Now where is it?
He pounds his fist on the table for emphasis, smashing the doughnuts in the process.
VLAD
(pouting)
Luka, I planned on eating those.
Luka gives Vlad a dirty look. He then takes out a switchblade and begins to clean his fingernails with it.
LUKA
It will be easier for you if you tell us what we want to know.
LEE
I already told you, I do not know what you are talking about. I am a director for International Federal Film. Perhaps you have seen some of my work? I stopped at Donut Express to pick up some doughnuts for a production meeting I had this morning. We are filming a new documentary on gypsy moths. We are calling it Gypsy Moths: Destructive Tree Caterpillars. It’s going to be enlightening.
(beat)
And I am late, so if you don’t mind.
LUKA
Lies!
(beat)
You are Lee Stetson. An American spy.
(another beat)
We know Silver Fox tried to contact you. Now where was this meet?
LEE
I do not know what you are talking about—the only meeting I have is this production meeting I am now very late for. . .
Luka strikes Lee and he recoils back.
LUKA
How many documentary film directors carry guns?
LEE
Are you kidding? Have you ever walked the city at night? I carry it for protection.
LUKA
Lies!! I am tied of all your lies.
(beat)
Fine. You can be our guest for a while, until you give us the information we seek. Perhaps, we can turn you into a double agent like your friend. We will need someone to replace him or I can execute you now on the spot.
He holds up the knife to Lee’s throat. Lee does not flinch.
LUKA (continued)
Think about it, Mr. Stetson.
Luka turns on his heels and heads out the door. Meanwhile, Vlad looks at Lee and then at the smashed doughnut box.
LUKA
(filtered)
Vlad, come on.
VLAD
Coming.
He quickly opens the doughnut box and takes out a ruined doughnut. Jelly filling coats the doughnut, but he shoves it into his mouth, before he exits.
Lee makes a disgusted face and we. . .
CUT TO
INT. GARDEN CLUB – STEP IN THYME – DAY
Dotty is in a room that looks very much like any room you would see at a senior center. There are display tables throughout the room and one of the tables has a couple of coffee carafes, Styrofoam cups, napkins, and packets of sugar and cream. In the center of the table is the pink doughnut box. Dotty grabs a doughnut from the box and takes a bite. She then grabs a napkin and wipes her lips.
There are other gardeners (male and female) mingling around in the room. Some are sitting in chairs talking to one another, and some are looking at various displays, while others are thumbing through catalogues and magazines.
A bespeckled grey-haired man, wearing glasses, close to the same age as Dotty approaches her. He/NOLAN grabs a doughnut and then pushes up his glasses.
NOLAN
Donut Express. My favorite! Did you happen to receive a copy the Capitol Press while you were there?
DOTTY
Yes, I believe it is under the box.
NOLAN
Do you mind if I grab the sports page?
DOTTY
No, go right ahead.
Dotty sees someone enter through the door.
DOTTY
There’s Carolyn. I must say hello. Pardon me, Nolan.
NOLAN
Sure, Dotty.
Dotty leaves. Nolan picks up the newspaper and rifles through it, until he finds the sports section. A note inside the newspaper falls to the FLOOR, not seen by anyone. . .
QUICK DISSOLVE
INT. GARDEN CLUB – ABOUT A HOUR LATER
Dotty and a couple of the other women, DIANE AND WENDY, from the Garden Club are cleaning up and chatting.
DOTTY
Did you see Jan’s hydrangeas? Did you ever see a more bluer blue?
(beat)
And look at these tomatoes and sweet red peppers Carolyn gave me. I’m going to make succotash. Amanda just loves succotash. She always has, even as a little girl.
DIANE
How is Amanda?
DOTTY
As busy as ever with that film company she works for.
WENDY
How is that hot new beau of hers?
(beat)
Any wedding bells in the foreseeable future?
Dotty rolls her eyes.
DOTTY
It sure would be nice to have a man around the house again, but I just do not know what they are waiting for. I think I need to take my daughter to the doctor to have her head examined.
Wendy and Diane laugh.
DIANE
Sorry, Dotty. I most take off; I have to watch the grandbabies tonight. It is Scott and Lisa’s Anniversary and I promised I would babysit.
WENDY
And Diane is my ride. Catch you next week.
DOTTY
Bye, ladies.
Both ladies leave and Dotty glances at the floor, she sees a folded piece of paper. She bends over to pick it up, opens it up and begins to read out loud.
INSERT NOTE
DOTTY
"I know who you are and have admired you from afar. We have a mutual friend who told me to contact you. I’d rather die then continue to live this lie. Must meet tonight - 5:00 p.m., Mount Vernon, the Lower Gardens. - S.A.”
BACK TO SCENE
DOTTY
S.A.
(beat)
Secret Admirer, hmm?
(another beat)
How romantic.
She glances around the room and notices two gentlemen, Nolan and EVAN, from her club sitting in the far corner talking. She looks at the note and then over at the table, then back at the note, before she places the note inside her purse and walks over to them.
DOTTY
Good afternoon, gentlemen.
The men look up as they watch her approach. They stand, and then offer her a seat.
NOLAN
Won’t you join us Dotty?
DOTTY
Don’t mind if I do.
Dotty sits down and Nolan pushes in her chair, then both Nolan and Evan sit down.
DOTTY
I hope I didn’t interrupt anything.
EVAN
No, Nolan and I were just engaging in some small talk.
DOTTY
What were you fellows talking about?
NOLAN
We were just discussing gardens.
DOTTY
Gardens.
(beat)
How interesting.
(another beat)
Any in particular? There are so many delightful gardens in the greater metropolitan area.
EVAN
Yes, and even though I live in a condominium, I pride myself on my balcony garden. My dwarf zonals were featured in Exceptional Balcony Gardens Magazine last month.
DOTTY
I saw the issue. I especially loved your apricot-colored flowers with the bronze foliage.
EVAN
Yes, the Vina.
DOTTY
Are either of you planning to visit any special ‘gardens’ soon?
EVAN
Umm. . . no.
(beat)
Did either of you see the Camptosaurus Rhizophyllus exhibit at the Botanical Gardens a couple years ago?
DOTTY
Camptosaurus Ritz. . .
EVAN
Camptosaurus Rhizophyllus, also known as the ‘walking fern.’ A small, but hardy evergreen fern, that usually grows on limestone or sandstone.
DOTTY
Well, you would know Professor James.
EVAN
Dotty, I told you to please call me Evan.
He winks at her.
DOTTY
Okay, Evan.
She places her hand on his arm.
NOLAN
(clears throat)
Yes, well, I did see the exhibit. I especially loved the water displays and the way the green, spear-shaped leaves crept along the stones. It was a great way to spend the evening.
DOTTY
Talking about the evening and it being a beautiful autumn day, I think an evening walk would be delightful.
NOLAN
(shyly)
An evening stroll with a beautiful woman is better than delightful.
Nolan pushes his eyeglasses up with his finger.
DOTTY
Mr. Aiken, you smooth talker you.
He blushes.
NOLAN
Are we on for 5 o’clock?
See blinks a couple of times.
DOTTY
Huh?
NOLAN
Bridge. The Morton’s. Friday night. 5:00 p.m.
DOTTY
Yes, Bridge. Of course.
(to Evan)
Speaking of Botanical gardens. . . have you ever visited the one at George Washington’s Estate?
EVAN
Historic Mount Vernon?
Dotty nods her head.
EVAN
Yes. Lovely this time of year. Although, not as beautiful as in the springtime; however, because of our Indian summer you might find aster, goldenrod, lilies, crocus, and monkshood still blooming.
NOLAN
Did you know there are four gardens at the estate? The botanical, the fruit, the upper, and the lower gardens. Besides a large assortment of flowers, the gardens also include several varieties of fruit trees, decorative boxwood, and vegetable beds.
Dotty reaches across the table, grabs both men’s hands, and squeezes them.
DOTTY
Such a wealth of information.
(beat)
Well, if you men don’t mind, I’ll be leaving your company. I had better go now. I need to get ready for my date.
EVAN
Who’s the lucky fellow?
DOTTY
As if you don’t know.
She winks at them both, then gets up, and leaves.
NOLAN
I wonder what that was all about?
Evan and Nolan both shrug, CLOSE ON THEM; we. . .
END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO
EXT. AMANDA'S HOUSE – AFTERNOON
CAMERA ZOOMS on 4247 house post sign and then focuses on the kitchen window.
INT. AMANDA'S HOUSE – KITCHEN – AFTERNOON
Amanda enters the kitchen carrying a couple bags of groceries. Dotty is sitting on a stool at the kitchen island, her hair in curlers.
AMANDA
Good afternoon, Mother.
DOTTY
Hello, Dear. How was Jamie’s orthodontist appointment?
AMANDA
His appointment went fine. Thank goodness, Dr. Reid was able to squeeze him in after Jamie broke another bracket. Don’t know what I am going to do with that boy if he keeps breaking them. He needs to lay off the popcorn and black licorice.
(beat)
He has a sweet tooth.
Amanda starts to put the groceries away.
DOTTY
Like someone else you know.
AMANDA
Yes, Jamie and Lee are two of a kind.
(sighs)
I just don’t understand why Jamie still won’t let Lee get close. In many ways, they are so much alike. They both love to read, are intelligent, sensitive, caring.
DOTTY
Maybe things would improve once Lee becomes a permanent fixture in this house.
(beat)
Not that I am meddling in your business.
AMANDA
Moth-er.
DOTTY
Don’t Mother me, Missy. Children need stability.
Amanda finishes putting the groceries away.
AMANDA
Yes, I know, but I don’t know how Jamie would react were Lee and I to marry. It’s one of the reasons why we have been taking things slow. Jamie’s my baby and we both know he's going to be the tougher one to crack.
DOTTY
He’s always been protective of you.
AMANDA
I know and even more so since the shoot. . . I mean the ‘accident.’
Amanda heaves a heavy sigh.
DOTTY
Amanda, I worry about you.
AMANDA
Me?
DOTTY
Yes, you.
Amanda sits down at the stool next to Dotty.
AMANDA
Okay, Mother. What’s going on?
Dotty reaches out and takes Amanda’s hand.
DOTTY
Don’t go borrowing trouble. Since the boys were born, you have always put their needs in front of your own.
AMANDA
Well, of course--
DOTTY
Let me finish. I think it is high time you put your needs first. Jamie will come around. You don’t need to worry about Phillip; he would be thrilled. He already thinks Lee walks on water. Lee has been a great influence on those boys this past year and is becoming a bigger part of their lives. In addition, I have never seen you happier then when you are with him.
AMANDA
You’re right, Mother.
(beat)
I love you.
DOTTY
And I love you.
AMANDA
What’s with the curlers?
DOTTY
I have a date tonight. Unfortunately, Mr. Emilio couldn't squeeze me in this afternoon.
AMANDA
Are you going out with Captain Curt?
DOTTY
No.
AMANDA
Really? Then who is this date with?
DOTTY
I don’t know.
AMANDA
(little concerned)
Moth-er. This isn’t someone you picked up at the jewelry store like the last time?
(beat)
What do you know about him?
DOTTY
Amanda, it’s okay. Whoever it is left me the sweetest note and signed it S.A., for secret admirer. Isn’t that romantic?
AMANDA
Who do you think left you the note?
DOTTY
Either Mr. Aiken or Mr. James?
AMANDA
(surprised)
Your fourth in Bridge or the Botany professor?
Dotty nods her head.
DOTTY
I won’t be here for dinner, so you’ll be on your own with the boys and Lee this evening. The boys said they would be coming home late. Phillip has soccer practice and Jamie was going to take pictures of the practice for the school paper. I’m so glad Lee gave Jamie that camera. It really has helped Jamie come out of his shell.
AMANDA
I know.
DOTTY
By the way, I ran into Lee this morning.
AMANDA
You saw Lee?
DOTTY
At Donut Express. He was picking up some doughnuts for a staff meeting. I thought both of you took the day off.
AMANDA
We did.
(beat)
Our boss must have called him in. Maybe, I better run to the office and make sure I’m not needed.
She grabs her car keys and her purse.
DOTTY
Wait, Amanda. I need the Jeep tonight. I’m meeting my date in Alexandria.
AMANDA
Alexandria?
DOTTY
Yes, we’ll be meandering through the fall foliage, maybe along the riverbank. Perfect weather for it, too, although I better bring my shawl. The night air can be a bit chilly.
Amanda bites her lip, thinking.
AMANDA
Okay, this is what we can do. After you finish getting ready for your date, you can drop me off at IFF. I’ll just get a ride home with Lee.
(beat)
Don’t worry about the boys. I’ll leave them a note and tell them they can have frozen pizza for dinner.
Dotty begins to take the curlers out of her hair.
DOTTY
Give me an hour to finish getting ready.
Dotty stands up and exits the kitchen, then heads up the stairs.
AMANDA
(calling after her)
All right, let me call Lee’s apartment and confirm he’s not there.
She looks toward the stairs to verify her mother can’t hear her conversation, then picks up the phone and dials.
AMANDA (continued)
(on phone)
Hello, Sweetheart. It’s me, Amanda. Just calling to see how your day went and making sure we are still on for dinner. Well, I guess you aren’t there. I’ll try the office. Love you.
She hangs up the phone and dials another number.
AMANDA (continued)
(on phone)
Hello, this is Amanda King. Is Lee Stetson there?
IFF OPERATOR (V.O.)
Scarecrow has the day off.
AMANDA
Are you sure he didn’t come in?
IFF OPERATOR (V.O.)
Mrs. King, I haven’t seen him all day.
(beat)
Can I take a message?
AMANDA
No, no message. Thank you.
She hangs up the phone.
AMANDA (contused)
Guess I’ll try his mobile.
She dials a third number. The phone just RINGS and RINGS. Amanda hangs up.
AMANDA
(under her breath)
Lee where are you?
Off her concerned look. . .
CUT TO
INT. TENEMENT BUILDING – BASEMENT – DAY
The CAMERA shows Lee still handcuffed and sitting on the crate. Luka and Vlad enter the room. Luka grabs another crate, moves it toward the table and then sits down. He takes out his knife and carves into the table. Vlad stands against the doorway, his arms crossed.
LUKA
Okay, Stetson. We’ve given you some time to think. Now, it’s time to talk.
LEE
I have nothing to tell you.
LUKA
Well, that is too bad to hear, because I think we might have to be more. . . how do you say it? Oh, yes, be more persuasive.
He motions to Vlad to stand behind Lee, and he complies.
LUKA (continued)
Your friend did not cooperate at first either. However, he soon found out we can be very persistent. It was easy to get Silver Fox to double-cross MI-6 and you Americans, once we were able to find his Achilles' heel—a little thing called substance dependence and the need to continue to feed his addiction. Let’s see if we can find yours. What’s your weakness, Scarecrow?
(beat; thinking)
I know torture won’t work on you. Maybe drugs? Maybe sleep deprivation?
(another beat; he sticks the knife blade into the table)
On the other hand, perhaps if you can’t be persuaded to join us, maybe your lovely partner will.
Lee does not say anything.
LUKA
What is her name again?
(beat)
Oh, yes, Mrs. King.
LEE
(through gritted teeth)
Leave Amanda out of this.
Luka smiles, sinisterly.
LUKA
Ah, I found your soft spot, didn’t I?
VLAD
(laughs)
Yes, I think you did, Luka.
Vlad reaches around Lee, grabs a smashed doughnut and stuffs it into his mouth. Both Lee and Luka give him a disgusted look.
VLAD
What? They’re still good even though a little smashed. Besides, I’m hungry and Donut Express makes the best jelly-filled doughnuts.
(to Lee)
Want one?
LEE
Um, no thanks.
Vlad shrugs.
VLAD
Your loss.
Vlad reaches for another doughnut and Luka slaps his hand.
LUKA
Would you stop with the doughnuts?
(to Lee)
I’m not going to ask again. I know he tried to contact you. Where were you supposed to meet? Where? When?
Lee is silent.
Luka stands up and begins to pace the room.
LUKA
(to himself)
We searched him, we searched the doughnuts, and we searched the newspaper. He didn’t have time to pass it on to anyone else. . .
(long pause)
Wait. . . the woman at the counter.
He rubs his hand across his stubbled chin.
ON LEE
Lee is surprised.
LUKA
Yes, the blonde-haired woman. Not bad looking either. Like them a little older, don’t you, Scarecrow?
LEE
You watch it. . . that’s my--
Lee holds his tongue.
FULL SHOT
LUKA
Hit a nerve, I see.
(beat)
Who is she?
Again, Lee is silent. His jaw twitches.
LUKA (continued)
Oh, yes, the perfect spy. No emotion. No expression.
(beat)
No problem. Vlad, keep an eye on our guest, I think it’s time for some casual surveillance and I think I’ll start at the doughnut shop. I will find this woman and when I do, I will kill her.
CLOSE UP ON LEE
Off Lee’s worried expression; we. . .
END OF ACT TWO
ACT THREE
EXT. THE AGENCY – GEORGETOWN ENTRANCE – EARLY EVENING
ZOOM on IFF sign
INT. THE AGENCY – BILLY’S OFFICE
BILLY MELROSE is sitting down at his desk doing paperwork when the phone RINGS.
BILLY
Yes.
(beat)
Okay, patch him through.
(another beat)
Melrose.
EXT. PAYPHONE – GEORGE WASHINGTON ESTATE – EVENING
CLOSE UP
A relatively handsome man with graying hair, SHANE ANDERSON, speaks on the phone. (Think Charles Shaughnessy). He has a distinctive British accent. The camera WIDENS to reveal an old country estate setting. We see the grounds, gardens, trees, and pathways. Few people mingle around.
SHANE
This is Silver Fox. What’s my status?
INTERCUT BETWEEN BILLY AND SHANE
BILLY
Silver Fox, I don’t understand. What do you mean what is your status? Isn’t Scarecrow there?
SHANE
No. He’s not here yet. He must be late.
(beat; checks watch)
I want to come back home.
BILLY
Are you willing to fuss up to your crimes?
SHANE
Yes, the Shapiro brothers had me in a. . . let’s say an awkward position.
BILLY
I understand they can play rough.
SHANE
Yes, they can. I want to add, I apologize to the United States government and MI-6 for crimes against our two countries.
(beat)
However, I thought one of Lee’s family was supposed to give him a message to meet me here.
BILLY
Did you deliver the message?
SHANE
Yes.
BILLY
Then somehow, we are off the wire.
(beat)
Where are you?
(another beat)
I’m coming to get you.
SHANE
No.
(beat)
I can’t stay. It appears that maybe Scarecrow has been compromised. I shall be in contact again shortly.
Shane looks up and sees a woman approaching the gardens. She gives the impression she is looking for someone.
SHANE (continued)
Well, well, well, Billy. It seems your tastes in agents has improved. Who is this vision of loveliness? Must be Scarecrow’s partner. I approve.
(beat)
Silver Fox out.
Shane hangs up the phone.
INT. BILLY’S OFFICE
BILLY
(into the phone)
Wait, Shane.
(beat)
Damn!
Billy hangs up the phone and dials an extension.
INT. Q-BUREAU
Amanda is busying herself, putting away files when the phone RINGS. She quickly picks it up.
AMANDA
Sweetheart, are you okay? I’ve been so worried about you.
BILLY
Amanda is that you?
INTERCUT BETWEEN AMANDA AND BILLY
AMANDA
Sorry, Sir. I thought you were someone else.
BILLY
Really, Amanda, there is no need to explain.
(beat)
However, have you heard from Lee today?
AMANDA
No. What assignment did the Agency send him on? Was it dangerous? Why didn’t he call me?
(beat; takes a deep breath)
Sir, we were both supposed to have the day off and now I am sitting here wondering what has happened to my partner. I believe I have a need. . . no, I have a right to know where he is.
BILLY
Yes, you do have a right to know.
(beat)
However, I don’t know.
AMANDA
(raises her voice)
You don’t know?!
She sits down hard in the chair behind her desk and takes a few deep breaths.
AMANDA
What can you tell me?
BILLY
I’m sorry to ruin your day off together. . . umm, I mean your time off, but something came up.
(beat)
Routine, really. Not dangerous at all. He was going to be slipped some information, and then bring in a rogue agent.
(another beat)
He never showed up at the meeting place.
AMANDA
Sir, please tell me what is going on.
BILLY
I’ll be upstairs in the Q-Bureau in a couple minutes.
He hangs up the phone, grabs his jacket off the back of his chair and heads out of the office.
QUICK CUT
EXT. GARDENS – EVENING
The sun is beginning to set and we see Dotty wandering around the gardens. She looks a bit crestfallen, as she believes she may have been stood up. Shane comes up behind her.
SHANE
Lovely evening.
Dotty smiles up at him.
DOTTY
Oh yes, yes it is.
SHANE
However, not as beautiful as the image in front of me now.
He takes her hand and kisses it.
DOTTY
Have we met?
SHANE
Only in my dreams.
DOTTY
Well, aren’t you suave and debonair?
(beat)
I couldn’t help but notice your accent. . . are you British?
He smiles at her.
SHANE
Also very perceptive.
She blushes.
DOTTY
I know a Lady from England—a Lady Farnsworth.
SHANE
Yes, I know Emily.
DOTTY
You know Emily Farnsworth? Small world.
(beat)
Of course, when I first met her, I did not realize she was a Lady.
SHANE
(smiles)
Yes, Emily told me that story.
Dotty heads toward a park bench.
DOTTY
Won’t you come join me and sit down? I was supposed to be meeting a man this evening, but I think I was stood up.
SHANE
I can’t image who could possibly stand up a beautiful woman as yourself. Are you sure you are not here for me?
He sits down next to her.
DOTTY
You really are a sweet talker.
(beat)
Let’s see, the note said 5:00 p.m., Lower Gardens, tonight.
SHANE
That’s right. Did Lee Stetson send you?
DOTTY
Oh, you know Lee, too.
SHANE
By name and reputation only.
DOTTY
Well, people in your business do get around a lot.
SHANE
Yes, we do get around a lot.
(beat)
I’m sorry, how very rude of me not to introduce myself. My name is Shane Anderson and you might be?
DOTTY
Dorothea West, but everyone calls me Dotty.
Shane shakes her hand.
SHANE
Dotty, it’s a pleasure to meet you.
DOTTY
I wonder why the Lower Garden when the Upper Gardens are far prettier?
SHANE
More cover, my dear.
DOTTY
(pauses for a moment; shakes her head)
Cover, of course.
SHANE
Closer to the river, too.
(beat)
Also reminds me of home. The lower estate garden is a wonderful example of a formal English kitchen garden.
(another beat)
And different from the usual seedy places.
DOTTY
(clueless)
Must be comforting to find a place that reminds you of home.
(beat)
By the way, I like your trench coat.
SHANE
Thank you.
DOTTY
The estate will be closing soon, or I would ask if you would like to stroll down by the river.
Shane does not say anything.
DOTTY
I’m sorry was that too forward of me?
Shane touches her arm.
SHANE
No. Not at all.
INT. Q-BUREAU – LATER THAT EVENING
Amanda is sitting on the sofa inside the Q-Bureau when she hears a KNOCK on the door.
AMANDA
Come in, it’s not locked.
Billy enters the room.
BILLY
I know better to knock first when entering the Q-Bureau.
Amanda blushes and Billy sits down on the edge of Amanda’s desk.
BILLY (continued)
How you holding up, Amanda?
AMANDA
Not well, Sir. I’m worried about Lee.
She schools her features and squares her shoulders.
AMANDA (continued)
What can you tell me?
BILLY
Early this morning we received a phone call from a rogue MI-6 agent, Shane Anderson, codename Silver Fox. He called to say he wanted to come back in and personally asked for Lee Stetson, saying he was friends with Emily Farnsworth. The assignment was a milk run really. Lee was supposed to be slipped some information from one of his ‘family’ and then meet this agent at the arranged meeting place.
AMANDA
Do you think this agent is responsible for Lee’s disappearance?
BILLY
I don’t think so. He called here letting me know Lee missed the meet.
(beat)
I also talked with Emily. She does know Shane and feels he won’t do Lee any harm, but also knows he has turned sides.
(another beat)
I did put an BOLO out on Lee’s Corvette. I hope someone spots it soon. It will help us narrow down what might have happened to Scarecrow.
(another beat)
He hasn’t been in contact with you all day?
AMANDA
No, but he knew I was busy running errands all morning. Had to run to the bank, pick up the dry cleaning, go grocery shopping, and take Jamie to the orthodontist.
(beat)
The first I realized something was up was when Mother said she ran into Lee at the doughnut shop and I realized he must be on an assignment.
(another beat)
I called Lee’s apartment and got no answer. He didn’t answer his car phone either. I then called the Agency and the operator told me Lee had not been here all day.
BILLY
That is correct. I contacted him early this morning at his apartment. He didn’t come in to the Agency.
The phone RINGS.
BILLY
Probably for me. I told the switchboard to forward my calls here.
Billy picks up the phone.
BILLY
Melrose.
Billy grabs a notepad and pencil off Amanda’s desk and writes something down.
BILLY (continued)
Thank you for letting us know. No, leave his car there. I will have someone from the Agency pick it up.
He hangs up the phone.
BILLY (continued)
D.C. Police found Lee’s car on 34th street.
AMANDA
That’s only a few blocks from here.
Amanda grabs her coat and purse.
BILLY
I’m going with you.
(beat)
We’ll have to stop by the Motor Pool and get a slim jim to jimmy the door. .
Amanda reaches into her purse and pulls out a set of car keys.
AMANDA
No need. I have keys for Lee’s car.
Billy smiles.
BILLY
I won’t even ask why you have a copy of Scarecrow’s keys.
Amanda blushes again.
They both leave the Q-Bureau and the door shuts.
CLOSE UP ON DOOR.
QUICK CUT
EXT. D.C. STREET – LEE’S CORVETTE – EVENING
ZOOM on parking sign. The sign reads 2-hour parking.
The streetlights are just beginning to turn on when the camera finds Amanda inside Lee’s car. Billy is standing on the curb next to the Corvette. He reaches across the window and grabs a parking ticket that has been placed under the wiper.
Amanda climbs out of the car and shuts the door.
AMANDA
Nothing here.
Billy hands her the parking ticket.
BILLY
Parking ticket, time stamped 10:05 a.m. Scarecrow’s car has been parked here all day.
He takes out his satellite phone and dials a number.
BILLY (continued)
(on phone)
Leatherneck, have someone from Motor Pool pick up Scarecrow’s car. It is parked on 34th Street. Have your boys go over the car. Lee Stetson is missing, although I doubt you will find anything usual.
Billy hangs up the phone. Amanda glances around the street and notices the building across the street.
AMANDA
Donut Express.
(beat)
One of Lee’s ‘family’ works here.
(another beat)
Susan Clark.
(another beat)
Susan must have been the one who passed the information on to Lee. Let’s see if she’s still at work.
Amanda and Billy walk across the street and into the doughnut shop.
INT. DONUT EXPRESS
Susan comes out of the backroom wearing street clothes. She notices Amanda.
SUSAN
Hey, Amanda. Just got off work and I’m headed home. I could probably grab you some day old doughnuts for you and your boys.
AMANDA
That’s very kind of you. . . but actually, I’m looking for Lee. You haven’t seen him today?
Susan glances around the shop, which is mostly empty at this time of evening. She looks over at Billy unsure if she should say something. Amanda follows Susan’s glance.
AMANDA
It’s okay. He’s our boss.
Susan nods her head.
SUSAN
I saw him this morning. I slipped the message into the newspaper and handed it to him with the box of doughnuts and he left. Why?
AMANDA
Lee is missing and this is the last place he was seen.
(beat)
Was anyone watching him?
Susan shakes her head.
AMANDA
Did he talk with anyone?
SUSAN
No.
(beat)
Wait. Yes, there was this older woman at the counter. He paid for her doughnuts.
BILLY
He paid for her doughnuts?
SUSAN
I wasn’t helping her, Becky was. But I think she didn’t have enough money. They acted as if they knew each other.
BILLY
She didn’t follow him out, did she?
SUSAN
No, I think she left a few minutes after him. I didn’t see much else. The place was busy with early morning customers. Sorry, I can’t be of more help.
(beat)
Do you need anything else? I have a date tonight and I don’t want to be late.
AMANDA
Date?
BILLY
What?
AMANDA
Susan, one more question. Did you happen to see what was written on the note?
SUSAN
I don’t like to snoop, so no I did not read the note, but it was signed S.A.
AMANDA
Okay, thanks, Susan.
Susan leaves the doughnut shop.
BILLY
Not much to go on.
(beat)
And we still don’t know who is with Shane Anderson right now. Not you or Francine, nor any other female agent from field section.
AMANDA
S.A.
(beat)
S.A. Date. Date!
(another beat)
Oh, my gosh!
BILLY
What?
AMANDA
Mother said she ran into Lee at the doughnut shop this morning. What if Lee had paid for her doughnuts and she grabbed the wrong box?
Billy begins to rub his temples.
BILLY
Please tell me your mother did not become involved in another Agency operation?
AMANDA
I’m sure it was quite by accident.
BILLY
It always is.
AMANDA
She picked up doughnuts for her garden club this morning.
Amanda is quiet for a few moments while she thinks.
AMANDA (continued)
Secret admirer.
BILLY
Huh?
AMANDA
Secret admirer. Mother said she received a note from a man who had signed it S.A., which she thought meant secret admirer. . .
(statement; more to herself)
. . . but what if it stood for Shane Anderson.
BILLY
That would mean your mother. . .
AMANDA
My mother is secretly meeting a spy.
CLOSE UP ON AMANDA
Off Amanda’s expression; we. . .
END OF ACT THREE
ACT FOUR
EXT. HIGHWAY – EVENING
ON SEDAN
The scene opens to reveal Billy and Amanda inside his sedan heading down the highway.
INT. SEDAN
BILLY
Think, Amanda.
AMANDA
Mother said she needed the Jeep because she was meeting her date in Alexandria.
BILLY
Alexandria?
AMANDA
Yes. She also said she needed her shawl because she thought it might be chilly this evening walking in the gardens by the river.
BILLY
River in Alexandria?
(beat)
The Potomac.
AMANDA
Potomac? Gardens? Alexandria?
She bites her lip.
AMANDA (continued)
Historic Mount Vernon, that’s where they must be.
BILLY
Call the Agency. Tell them to send backup to the George Washington Estate.
He hands her his satellite phone.
AMANDA
That tells us where Mother and Shane are, but we’re still not any closer to knowing what happened to Lee or explain where Lee is.
Billy puts his hand on her shoulder.
BILLY
We’ll find him.
AMANDA
Thank you, Sir. Yes, we will.
BILLY
Amanda, when we get to the estate, find your mother and get her out of there. Shane should not be a problem; however, remember not to trust him. He says he wants to come home, but he is a double agent.
AMANDA
Right.
She nods her head and then dials the Agency phone number and puts the phone to her ear.
CUT TO
EXT. LOWER GARDENS – LATER THAT EVENING
It is now night, Dotty and Shane are walking down a path along an ancient espalier fence. They are heading toward the paddock and stable on the southern border of the estate. Shane has linked arms with Dotty.
DOTTY
And you never married?
SHANE
Sadly, no. In my line of work, it is hard to settle down.
(beat)
One of my biggest regrets was not finding the right woman and getting married, raising a family.
(another beat)
I am looking forward to getting out of this business once and for all. This old dog is tired of the fight.
DOTTY
Mr. Anderson. You are far from old and you are only as old as you feel.
SHANE
Dotty, please call me Shane.
DOTTY
That crazy business of yours through, with all the late hours, and the running around, traveling abroad, I am not surprised you are burned out.
(beat)
Lee works too hard as well. I hope someday to see him settle down and married to my daughter. I think he would make an excellent husband and stepfather.
SHANE
I hope he gets out, before it’s too late.
Shane suddenly grabs his shoulder and winces in pain. He then takes out a pill bottle, opens it and pops a pill in his mouth, which he dry swallows. He then looks over at Dotty.
SHANE (continued)
Damn things will kill me yet.
DOTTY
Are you okay?
SHANE
No. I’m falling apart.
Shane heaves a heavy sigh.
SHANE (continued)
It started with one surgery, then another, and another. Then men in white lab coats pushing pills for pain, pills to relax, pills to sleep.
(beat)
At first I told myself I was not a drug addict, and it was okay—I could quit at anytime. However, I only was lying to myself—and soon I realized I couldn’t function without them.
(another beat)
I don’t know why I am telling a stranger all this?
DOTTY
Obviously it’s been weighing heavy on your mind for a while.
Shane nods his head.
SHANE
Yes, it has. Thank you so much for taking the time to listen Dotty. You are a genuine lady.
They both stop and are just a few inches from each other. Shane leans in to give her a gentle kiss when they both hear a sound and jump apart.
DOTTY
What was that?
SHANE
I don’t know, but wait here. I’m going to check it out.
Shane takes off around the horse stable.
Dotty standing alone along the pathway, hears another sound.
DOTTY
Shane?
She takes a step toward the fruit trees to investigate.
THE CAMERA focuses on Amanda hiding in the shadows.
DOTTY (continued)
Amanda?
AMANDA
Hello, Mother. Beautiful evening. Mount Vernon is just lovely this time of year.
DOTTY
Are you all right? You seem a little nervous.
AMANDA
Fine, Mother, really. . .
DOTTY
Oh, Amanda, I met a wonderful man tonight. He's British and a true gentleman, although he did tell me he has some personal problems, but is trying to get his life back on track.
(beat)
What are you doing here? I thought the grounds were closed.
AMANDA
Oh, Mother, we have our ways.
DOTTY
Huh?
They both turn toward the direction of gunfire.
DOTTY (continued)
That sounds like gunfire.
AMANDA
(nervous)
I think it’s fireworks, Mother.
(beat)
You know kids and their fireworks and being so close to the nation’s capital we hear fireworks all year round.
(another beat)
But I think we may want to leave now.
DOTTY
Wait a moment, Amanda. I want to say goodbye to Shane.
AMANDA
(under her breath)
Wait much longer and all will be revealed.
Dotty shrugs and from the corner of her eye she sees Shane walking back toward her.
DOTTY
Here he comes.
She waves him over.
DOTTY (continued)
Shane, this is my daughter Amanda. Amanda, Shane Anderson.
AMANDA
Pleasure to meet you.
SHANE
Likewise.
He shakes her hand.
SHANE (continued)
Would you mind if I have a moment alone with your mother?
AMANDA
No, go right ahead. I need to be leaving anyway. See you at home, Mother.
Amanda exits.
SHANE
My ride is here. I must go away for a while. I hope when all this is over I can see you again.
DOTTY
Of course.
(sincerely)
You are a stronger man then you give yourself credit.
He smiles at her, leans down and kisses her tenderly.
THE CAMERA WIDENS to reveal Billy and Amanda watching this moment.
AMANDA
I guess Mother is none the wiser.
(beat)
And Luka Shapiro is in Agency custody.
BILLY
Yes, and singing like a jailbird.
Billy reaches out and puts his hand on Amanda’s shoulder.
BILLY (continued)
He and his brother are holding Lee hostage at an abandoned house at this address.
He hands her a piece of paper.
BILLY (continued)
Let’s go get your partner.
AMANDA
Yes, Sir.
Amanda and Billy walk down the moonlit path.
CUT TO
EXT. TENEMENT BUILDING – NIGHT
A pizza delivery van pulls up in front of the building. The driver gets out of the van, carrying a pizza delivery bag. The driver is wearing a jacket and baseball cap with the company’s logo.
After walking to the door, she BUZZES the door buzzer. We see it is Amanda.
We hear Vlad voice over the intercom.
VLAD (v.o.)
Da.
Amanda standing at the door, chewing a piece of gum. She blows it into a bubble and then pops it.
AMANDA
Pizza delivery.
VLAD (V.O.)
I didn’t order any pizza. You must have the wrong address.
AMANDA
No, Sir. I have the correct address right here. A pepperoni, olives, with extra cheese for a Mr. Shar-pe-o. (She slaughters the name, mispronouncing it horribly).
VLAD (V.O.)
That’s Shapiro.
AMANDA
Yeah, whatever. Listen, Buddy. Do you want the pizza or not, I haven’t got all day?
VLAD (V.O.)
Okay. Okay. I’ll buzz you through.
BUZZ and CLINK sound
Amanda pushes the door open. She props the door open for other agents to sneak in behind her.
INT. TENEMENT BUILDING – FRONT DOOR – NIGHT
Amanda knocks on the door.
We hear a series of LOCKS being unlocked and then a SLIDE, before Vlad opens the door, peering around, just outside the threshold.
VLAD
What do I owe you?
Amanda opens the pizza delivery bag, and pulls out her gun and points it at Vlad.
AMANDA
Nothing, except my partner. Thank you.
Dejected, Vlad holds up his hands. While the Agency team storms the building.
CLOSE UP ON VLAD, and we. . . FREEZE FRAME
END OF ACT FOUR
TAG
EXT. AMANDA'S HOUSE – EARLY EVENING (NEXT DAY)
The camera zooms on Lee’s Corvette parked next to the curb out front of Amanda’s house.
INT. AMANDA’S HOUSE – KITCHEN – EARLY EVENING
AMANDA (O.C.)
What happens to Shane now?
LEE (O.C.)
He’s headed back to London to face charges.
Lee and Amanda enter the kitchen. She turns on the light.
AMANDA
Will he get the help he needs?
She takes off her coat and hands it to Lee. He takes her coat and his own and steps out to hang them up in the coat closet.
LEE (O.C.)
He will be sent to a treatment facility to start managing his drug addiction.
AMANDA
Really it’s too bad he didn’t go to his supervisors to begin with when the Russians first approached him.
LEE
You know what they say about hindsight.
(beat)
I know he deeply regrets his decisions, but somehow I feel that maybe his superiors may have turned a blind eye on the problem.
AMANDA
And I hope you learned a valuable lesson, Stetson.
LEE
Me?
AMANDA
Yes, you.
She pokes him in the stomach with her finger.
AMANDA (continued)
First, never assume any assignment is routine. Always have backup and never forget your half rake.
LEE
(like a scolded child)
Yes, Ma’am.
(beat)
I think the smell of doughnuts is going to churn my stomach for a long time.
He shakes his head.
AMANDA
Good, then possibly I can finally get you to eat a healthy breakfast.
LEE
Maybe we can start tomorrow.
(beat)
If I’m good this evening, do you promise to come over and give me a full body massage? I still don’t have complete feeling in my arms, hands, and shoulders after being tied up all day yesterday.
AMANDA
Poor baby.
She kisses him quickly.
AMANDA
I’m sure something can be arranged.
(beat)
You know the house is awfully quiet.
(hollers)
Mother, Fellas, Lee and I are home.
There is no answer.
She shrugs and places her purse on the counter, when she notices a note. She reads the note.
AMANDA
(to Lee)
Mother left to pick up the boys and run a couple of errands.
Lee raises an eyebrow.
LEE
Alone at last.
AMANDA
Looks like it.
Lee grabs her and pulls her close. He gingerly kisses her lips and then kisses her neck and pushes her hair aside and kisses her collarbone. She sighs in contentment. He looks up at her again and lowers his mouth to hers, kissing her deeply. When they are suddenly startled by a door closing, they break apart.
Dotty enters the kitchen with PHILLIP and JAMIE right behind her.
JAMIE
Thanks a lot, Dog Breath, it was my turn to sit up front and choose which radio station we listened to on the drive home.
PHILLIP
Tough, I called shot gun. Not my fault you are slow, Four Eyes.
AMANDA
Fellas! Not another unkind word to each other or the two of you are grounded from the TV for a week.
PHILLIP/JAMIE
(unison)
Yes, Mom.
DOTTY
Hello, Dears.
(beat)
Lee, are you staying for dinner?
LEE
Yes, Ma’am.
Dotty checks the oven.
DOTTY
Dinner should be ready in about five minutes. Why don’t you go wash up?
(to Phillip and Jamie, who can’t stop touching each other)
You, too.
The family hustles around the kitchen getting ready.
AMANDA
Phillip, I believe it is your turn to set the table.
PHILLIP
No, it’s Jamie’s turn.
JAMIE
Is not. I did it both Sunday and Monday night, remember?
AMANDA
I think Jamie is right, Phillip. Now, get going.
She playfully swats him. Phillip reluctantly grabs some plates and silverware and disappears into the dining room. Dotty rolls her eyes and looks toward Lee, who has opened the refrigerator, looking for something to nibble on.
DOTTY
(to Lee)
Boys!
She closes the refrigerator door and gives Lee another sharp look. She then reaches behind the counter.
DOTTY (continued)
I stopped for dessert while I was out.
She produces a pink doughnut box.
DOTTY (continued)
After all, Donut Express makes the best doughnuts.
Lee turns green.
LEE
I think I'll pass on dessert tonight.
(beat)
I’m sorry; all of a sudden, I’m not feeling very well.
AMANDA
Sweetheart, why don’t you use the master bathroom?
He nods his head and quickly exits.
INT. DINING ROOM
The rest of the family settles down at the dinner table.
DOTTY
What's wrong with Lee?
AMANDA
Well, Mother, I think you were finally successful in changing one of his breakfast eating habits—no more stale rolls or donuts for him.
CLOSE UP ON DOTTY
Dotty shrugs and we. . . FREEZE FRAME
FADE OUT:
THE END