SCARECROW AND MRS. KING
“Guilt by Association”
Written by Anne Riener
February 2013
“Guilt by Association”
Written by Anne Riener
February 2013
FADE IN:
PROLOGUE
EXT. SUBURBAN STREET IN ARLINGTON – DAY
There is an older Honda Accord parked against the curb.
The scene opens with a MAN sitting in his car; we don’t see his face, just the back of his head. His mobile phone RINGS. He answers it.
MAN
Hello. . . speaking. . . yes, I’ve got the cash. Do you have the merchandise? Good. Listen Kid, I have a rather large order I would like to place, but I will only deal directly with your boss. . . Could you arrange a meet? Great! Tell him I can meet him at the school in--
He looks at his watch.
MAN (continued)
. . . thirty minutes.
He hangs up the phone.
MAN
I have you now.
QUICK CUT
ACT ONE
EXT. ARLINGTON HEIGHTS JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL – SOCCER FIELD – DAY
It is a cool, crisp late autumn morning. Fog is slowly beginning to lift. We see PHILLIP and JAMIE walking up to the soccer field. Phillip is carrying a mesh bag full of soccer balls. He is dressed in a long-sleeve shirt and shorts, wearing long socks, shin guards and cleats. He is also wearing goalkeeper gloves. Jamie is dressed in sweatpants, a matching sweatshirt, and tennis shoes.
THE CAMERA FOLLOWS THEM
PHILLIP
Thanks for helping me practice catching drills this morning.
Jamie shrugs.
JAMIE
It’s my school, too. And I want to see our team cream the Tigersharks.
They stop in front of the soccer goal net on one side of the field. Phillip then takes the balls out of the mesh bag and places them in a row a few yards from the goal. He then begins to juggle the soccer ball on his knees and feet expertly.
PHILLIP
If I don’t get to practice my goaltending we’ll be liquidated.
JAMIE
Yeah, too bad Todd Grimes broke his wrist tripping over Jessie Ruther in gym class.
PHILLIP
And a week before semi-finals.
JAMIE
Coach Reynolds was furious.
(beat)
You as backup goalkeeper are our only hope.
PHILLIP
And I haven’t had much time goalkeeping this season. Grimes has my skills beat.
He stops juggling the ball and kicks it over to Jamie who stops it with his feet.
PHILLIP (continued)
Nice stop.
JAMIE
What is it you need me to do?
Phillip walks over to the net and stands in a ready position.
PHILLIP
Just keep kicking those balls to me or you can throw the ball. But try to aim in areas where it would be more difficult for me to save.
JAMIE
Right.
Jamie then strikes the first ball solidly and Phillip saves it from rolling into the net. Jamie kicks another ball and another ball and Phillip keeps fending off the balls at the correct moments. Jamie then throws a couple of the soccer balls toward the goal post corners. Phillip dives and catches.
JAMIE
Nice save.
PHILLIP
Thanks.
Jamie is down to the last ball.
JAMIE
Okay, this one I’m going to kick hard.
ON PHILLIP
Phillip nods his head. He stands in a ready position and keeps his eyes on the ball. His hands open.
ON JAMIE
Jamie runs up on the ball and strikes it solidly with the inside kick.
WIDEN
The ball sails widely over the net and rolls down the hill.
PHILLIP
Way to go, Wormbrain! Now, go get it.
Jamie reluctantly heads off the field and walks toward the area where the ball rolled. He spots it in some blackberry bushes. He then walks down the hillside. From his angle, in the background Jamie can see the backside of the school gym and he witnesses the assistant coach, RANDY JACOBSEN, a black man in his early 30s, standing outside. He is the same man from the earlier scene. Jamie is about to wave to the coach when he observes a red sports car pull into a parking space and another black man get out. This man is in his late 20s and we later learn he is TYRONE HESSTON. Randy acknowledges the man and then the two enter the school building.
Jamie shrugs his shoulders and begins to walk back toward the soccer field.
In the background, the double doors open and the two men step out.
Jamie, who is still hidden from view by the bushes, looks up when he hears the two men arguing. Note: We do not hear what they are arguing about.
Tyrone draws a gun and shoots the coach.
ON BIRDS
Sparrows in the trees fly off at the sound of gunfire.
In the background, the man fires his weapon again, glances around, then gets back into his sports car and drives off.
ON JAMIE
He is paralyzed by fear.
QUICK CUT
EXT. ARLINGTON HEIGHTS JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL – PARKING LOT – DAY
We see crime tape around the scene and several police cars surrounding the parking lot outside the junior high school. We also see an ambulance pull away from the schoolyard – without the emergency lights on. Police officers are milling around.
ON PATROL CAR
Phillip and Jamie are in the backseat. The car door is open. Jamie has a blanket covering his shoulders. We hear a lot of police chatter over the radio.
ON WAGONEER
The Jeep Wagoneer pulls up to the scene.
LEE and AMANDA get out of the Jeep. Lee flashes his ID and an officer points in the direction of the boys.
ON PATROL CAR
Jamie and Phillip see their mom and stepdad and dash out of the car toward them. Jamie hugs his mom first and then Lee. He recoils back when he feels Lee’s gun hidden by his suit jacket. He steps back into his mother’s embrace.
Lee and Amanda share a glance.
LEE
Let me talk to the officer in charge and see if we can get out of here.
AMANDA
Thanks, Sweetheart.
Lee walks away. Amanda hugs Jamie and then pulls Phillip toward her. In the background, we see Lee talking to an officer.
AMANDA (continued)
Thank God you boys are okay.
(beat)
Jamie, do you want to talk about it?
Jamie shakes his head.
AMANDA
It might help.
Jamie shakes his head a second time.
AMANDA
All right, we just want you to know that we are here for you when you are ready to talk.
Lee returns to his family.
LEE
I just talked with Detective Owens and he said they have the boys’ statements and we are free to go.
They all walk toward the Wagoneer. Lee opens the passenger door for Amanda and she sits down in the front seat. Lee then opens the backdoor for the boys. The boys climb into the backseat and he shuts the door then he suddenly spots another car pull up beside the Jeep. He sees BILLY and a woman he does not immediately recognize get out of Billy’s sedan. Billy walks over to Lee, while the woman hangs back.
BILLY
How are the boys doing?
LEE
They're shaken up, of course.
BILLY
Yes, understandable.
LEE
What brings you out here, Billy?
BILLY
I know you are familiar with Geraldine Jubal.
LEE
The head of the DEA? Reputation only, but I have heard she’s a real hard nose. Her and Smyth’s crusade a few months ago almost got T.P. killed. Why?
The woman, GERALDINE JUBAL, leaning against Billy’s sedan, clears her throat. She is in her 40s and dressed in business attire.
BILLY
Scarecrow, let me introduce you to Geraldine Jubal. She's going to need the boys’ statements.
LEE
Now, wait a minute, the police said they were done with questioning.
BILLY
This is no longer a police matter.
Amanda steps out of the Jeep to see what is going on.
AMANDA
(to the boys)
Stay in the car.
(to Billy and Lee)
Lee? Sir?
BILLY
Amanda King, meet Geraldine Jubal, head of the DEA.
AMANDA
DEA?
She looks from Lee, then Billy, then Agent Jubal, and back to Lee.
Everyone begins talking at once. Billy whistles to get Lee and Amanda’s attention.
LEE
What’s going on, Billy? Why does the DEA want to talk to our boys?
Billy nods to Agent Jubal, encouraging her to take the lead.
JUBAL
Your boys witnessed the murder of a DEA agent. You see, Mr. Jacobsen was one of my agents.
OFF LEE AND AMANDA’S STUNNED LOOK
QUICK CUT
EXT. ARLINGTON HEIGHTS JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL – PARKING LOT – A FEW MOMENTS LATER
AMANDA
What? One of your agents?
Agent Jubal nods her head.
LEE
Let me see if I get this straight. The assistant soccer coach at Arlington Heights Junior High was really an agent?
JUBAL
Yes, Randy Jacobsen was undercover DEA.
AMANDA
At a junior high school? That’s crazy.
(beat)
They’re just kids here. This isn’t a high school or a college campus. We’re talking about a junior high school.
JUBAL
We’ve arrested kids as young as twelve for dealing.
(beat)
May I ask why your boys were here? On a day when there was no school.
Lee clenches his fists, but Amanda places a hand on his shoulder.
AMANDA
(feisty)
My sons were here practicing soccer. If Mr. Jacobson was your agent, you would know that my son, Phillip, is backup goalkeeper. He was here with his brother practicing for Saturday’s game.
JUBAL
I mean no disrespect.
Billy gives a stern look to Lee and Amanda.
BILLY
None taken.
The agents continue to size each other up. Billy realizes he is going to have to defuse the situation.
BILLY (continued)
How about I get a statement from Phillip and Jamie down at the Agency?
AMANDA
Sir-
Billy holds up his hand.
BILLY
They know me. And you two can be in the room with them. This is questioning only, not an interrogation. Okay?
Amanda looks to Lee and he nods his head. Billy then talks to Agent Jubal.
BILLY (continued)
I will fax over the report to you. Is that satisfactory?
JUBAL
I guess it will have to be.
Billy motions for Agent Jubal to get into his sedan. He then turns to his agents.
BILLY
I expect you two in the office in an hour. I will let Mrs. Marston know to expect company.
AMANDA
Sir-
BILLY
We’ll have everything set up in the Q-Bureau.
Lee blows out a breath, looks over at Amanda, and then puts his arm around her shoulder.
LEE
Yes, we’ll see you in an hour.
Billy gets into the car and drives off. Amanda looks up at Lee.
AMANDA
Lee-
LEE
Don’t worry, Amanda. I won’t let anything happen to our boys.
Amanda leans her head against his shoulder; we. . .
QUICK CUT
EXT. AGENCY GEORGETOWN ENTRANCE SIGN – DAY
WIDE SHOT of the Agency. Then the camera ZOOMS up onto a second story window.
INT. AGENCY – Q-BUREAU – DAY
Jamie is sitting at Amanda’s desk surrounded by stacks of mug shot books. Amanda is hovering over him. Meanwhile, Phillip is sitting at Lee’s desk. Lee is pacing between the two desks. Jamie finishes a book and hands it to Lee who adds it to the dead pile. Jamie starts another book, finishes a page and then turns it. He stops then turns back.
AMANDA
Do you see someone you might recognize?
JAMIE
Maybe. I’m not sure.
Lee comes up behind Jamie and puts his hands on his shoulders.
LEE
Take your time, Sport.
Bored Phillip starts flipping through one of the books.
PHILLIP
Are these really photos of spies?
Lee groans.
PHILLIP (continued)
Sorry, intelligence operatives.
AMANDA
No, the DEA brought these over. These are pictures of known drug dealers.
PHILLIP
Mom, can we take a break?
JAMIE
Yeah, we’re starving.
AMANDA
(to Jamie)
Are you okay? You did witness something upsetting.
Jamie exchanges a glance with Phillip and then shrugs.
PHILLIP
I’m sure he’s seen worse on television.
AMANDA
Fellas, this is real life.
There is an awkward silence for a few moments.
LEE
Why don’t I see if there is something in the snack machine in the breakroom?
(beat)
I know sometimes having something in my stomach helps me focus.
PHILLIP
Can I go with you?
LEE/AMANDA
(in unison)
No!
LEE
Sorry, Phillip. You boys only have access to our office tonight. The rest of the Agency is off limits. Do you understand?
JAMIE
Yes.
PHILLIP
I guess.
LEE
Okay, I will be right back with some snacks. Amanda, can I get you anything?
AMANDA
No, thank you, Sweetheart. I’m good.
LEE
Okay.
Lee leaves the Q-Bureau.
CAMERA FOLLOWS LEE DOWN THE STAIRS.
MRS. MARSTON is sitting at her desk. Billy exits out of the closet elevator.
BILLY
Scarecrow, how’s it going up there?
Lee shoves his hands into his pockets and rocks back on his heels.
LEE
Jamie is taking this a lot better than I thought he would.
BILLY
(nods his head)
Children are resilient.
LEE
No, I don’t think it’s that.
BILLY
Maybe, it hasn’t hit him yet.
LEE
That might be it. I remember the first time I witnessed someone murdered. . . well, let’s just say my mind was not on food.
BILLY
Yes, but I don’t think Jamie is going to finish a half bottle of Scotch.
(beat)
Would you like me to have him talk with Dr. Pfaff?
LEE
NO!
BILLY
Okay. I won’t ask him.
(beat)
Can I go to the DEA with anything?
Lee shakes his head.
LEE
Jamie has gone over the arrest photos the DEA sent over and he has yet to recognize the shooter.
(beat)
Perhaps he’s new in town or doesn’t have an arrest record.
BILLY
Do we have anything to go on?
LEE
Not anything the police and DEA don’t already have.
Billy nods his head.
BILLY
Well, keep me apprised. In the meantime, Francine has the boys’ statements, along with the account Jamie gave the police and a vague description of the suspect – it’s too bad he didn’t get a better look at the perp.
(beat)
I will have her fax what we have to them. It’s in the DEA’s hands now.
Billy hands his ID badge to Mrs. Marston then exits out the front door while Lee enters the closet elevator.
QUICK CUT
EXT. POLICE STATION – ESTABLISHING – DAY
A wide-angle view of the street in front of a police station. Police cars are parked in front and people are seen entering and leaving the building.
The camera ZOOMS up on a POLICEMAN walking up the stairs with Tyrone Hesston. Tyrone has his hands behind his back. It almost appears that the police officer is leading Tyrone into the station. The policeman opens the double glass doors and Tyrone steps through. Tyrone then drops his hands to his side. Then the two men part company.
INT. POLICE STATION – DAY
The camera follows Tyrone as he walks down a corridor of the station. He then enters the bullpen. Other plainclothes officers mill around. A POLICE CHIEF steps out of his office. He is an older, well-built, Caucasian man.
POLICE CHIEF
Well, look who decided to grace us with his presence.
TYRONE
Sorry, Cap. My alarm didn’t go off this morning. It won’t happen again.
POLICE CHIEF
Make sure it doesn’t.
(beat)
Now, get to work. I expect those reports on my desk by noon.
TYRONE
Yes, Sir.
Tyrone walks over to a group of desks in the bullpen and sits down at his desk.
The camera ZOOMS onto a nameplate on the desk. It reads, “Detective Hesston, Narcotics.”
And we. . .
END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO
INT. NARCOTICS DEPARTMENT – A FEW MOMENTS LATER – DAY
Detective Hesston is sitting at his desk, typing up a report on his typewriter, when another man sits on the corner of his desk. This is detective LANCE ROCCO, he is in his early 30s, but already balding and a bit heavy set. He picks up a stress ball off the desk and begins to squeeze it.
ROCCO
Hey, where were you last night?
TYRONE
Um, I had a date.
ROCCO
She must have been one hot señorita for you to skip beer and steaks at Randy’s with us.
Tyrone pantomimes her figure and Rocco whistles.
ROCCO (continued)
You sure missed one hell of a game. That 52-yard punt return by Darrell Green for the go-ahead touchdown was the key play of the game. The Redskins are going all the way this year!
TYRONE
Don’t we know it!
They high five.
TYRONE (continued)
Did I miss anything at roll call?
ROCCO
(shrugs)
Same old, same old.
(beat)
Oh, except some DEA agent was capped yesterday.
TYRONE
(playing it cool)
DEA? Where?
ROCCO
Out behind the junior high school. He was some sort of undercover agent posing as an assistant soccer coach.
Tyrone nods his head.
TYRONE
What a shame.
ROCCO
Yeah, all the alphabet agencies are all over this.
TYRONE
Any leads?
ROCCO
No, not much.
Tyrone nods his head again.
ROCCO (continued)
Although, I guess there was a witness to the shooting.
TYRONE
Witness?
ROCCO
Yeah, a junior high kid, I guess.
Tyrone starts to flush.
ROCCO
Hey, you don’t look so good.
TYRONE
I don’t feel so good.
He stands up.
TYRONE (continued)
I might be coming down with that stomach flu that has been making the rounds around here.
ROCCO
Oh yeah, boy, is it nasty.
Tyrone walks toward the chief’s office and softly knocks on the door before sticking his head in. The police chief is sitting at his deck. He looks up.
INT. POLICE CHIEF OFFICE
POLICE CHIEF
What can I do for you, Hesston?
TYRONE
I know I just got in, but I’m not feeling so good.
POLICE CHIEF
(holds up his hand)
Say no more.
(beat)
Go home.
TYRONE
Thanks.
POLICE CHIEF
(shakes head; mumbles)
Stupid bug has taken out half my department.
Tyrone turns to leave and then stops at the door.
POLICE CHIEF
Feel better soon. I need you on this case.
TYRONE
The DEA agent?
POLICE CHIEF
I know you canvas the area down there.
TYRONE
Yeah, I have some informants at the junior high.
POLICE CHIEF
Good. Maybe when you feel better you can nose around. See if they know anything.
TYRONE
I thought there was a witness.
POLICE CHIEF
Actually, two. Brothers who happened to be playing up at the soccer field when this went down, but I think only one saw it go down.
(beat)
Too bad he didn’t get a better look at the perp.
TYRONE
Yeah.
(beat)
Do we know who these witnesses are?
POLICE CHIEF
No, this is the DEA’s show. They have put a lid on it. We are available for assistance only.
TYRONE
Yes. Yes, of course.
POLICE CHIEF
Now, go home and get some rest. I expect to see you on time for roll call tomorrow.
TYRONE
You bet.
CLOSE UP ON TYRONE. He looks worried.
QUICK CUT
EXT. KING-STETSON HOUSE – EARLY MORNING
Camera focuses on the 4247 sign.
JAMIE (O.C.)
Mom?!
AMANDA (O.C.)
What, Sweetheart?
Camera ZOOMS through kitchen window.
INT. KITCHEN – EARLY MORNING
The early morning sun is filtering into the kitchen and we see Amanda standing by the stove, cooking breakfast. She’s wearing a nightgown and robe. Lee’s not dressed for work either, and is sitting down at the island, reading the newspaper.
JAMIE
How could you?
AMANDA
How could I what?
JAMIE
How could you let me sleep in? Now I’m going to be late.
Amanda looks over at Lee and then back at Jamie.
JAMIE (continued)
And why aren’t you ready for work?
Amanda bites her lip.
AMANDA
Well, you see, Mr. Melrose gave us the day off. He thought it would be best if we spent the day together as a family.
(beat)
I already called the school and told them we were keeping you home.
JAMIE
I can’t miss school. I have a big Algebra test today.
Phillip enters the kitchen and grabs a piece of bacon off a plate by the stove. Amanda slaps his hand.
PHILLIP
Really, we have a free day? All right!
Phillip walks over to the breakfast table. Amanda flips the pancakes she is cooking and then places them onto a plate and carries them over to the breakfast nook.
AMANDA
(to Jamie)
I made your favorite chocolate chip pancakes. Now, why don’t you sit down and eat.
She ruffles Jamie’s hair.
AMANDA (continued)
Is there anything else I can make for you? Scrambled eggs or toast?
JAMIE
(shakes head)
No, what I need is a ride to school.
PHILLIP
What’s a matter, Dork? Missing one day isn’t going be the end of the world.
AMANDA
(to Phillip)
Sit down and eat your pancakes.
Phillip sits down and begins to dig in.
AMANDA
(to Jamie; gently)
Sweetheart, I think it would be best if you stayed home today. I am sure if I call your teacher and explain the situation you can make up the exam at a later date. You had quite a shock yesterday.
JAMIE
Really, Mom, I’m fine.
(beat; to Lee)
Lee, can you give me a ride to school?
Lee looks at Jamie and then up at Amanda. She shrugs. He gets up, walks over to a key rack, and tosses Jamie a set of keys.
LEE
Sure. Why don’t you warm up the ‘vette for me and give me about ten minutes to get ready?
JAMIE
Thanks, Lee.
He grabs his backpack and dashes out of the kitchen.
AMANDA
What was that all about?
Lee shrugs.
PHILLIP
(from across the kitchen)
He’s a dorkus.
LEE/AMANDA
(in unison)
Phillip!!
PHILLIP
What?
CLOSE ON LEE AND AMANDA; we. . .
CUT TO
EXT. ARLINGTON STREET – A FEW MINUTES LATER
To show the Corvette driving along the road.
INT. CORVETTE – DAY
Lee is driving down the road with his hands on the steering wheel. He glances over to Jamie, who is sitting in the passenger seat, staring out the window. Lee clears his throat.
LEE
How about some music?
JAMIE
What?
LEE
I was wondering if you wanted to listen to the radio. You can choose the station.
Jamie shakes his head.
LEE
So big math test today.
Jamie still is looking out the window.
JAMIE
Yeah, Algebra.
LEE
Are you ready for your test? Do you want me to quiz you or anything?
Jamie shakes his head.
JAMIE
There really isn’t anything you could quiz me on. I think I will do all right.
(beat)
I want to do well in the class. If I get an A or B in the class and pass the E.O.C. exam, I can take Geometry next year.
LEE
I take it not many eighth graders take Geometry.
Jamie shakes his head.
LEE
You are going to go far in life, Sport.
Jamie looks over at Lee and basks in his approval for a moment, and then turns his attention to the outside world.
There is a long silence between them.
JAMIE
Lee, can I ask you a question?
LEE
Shoot.
(he cringes)
I mean, go ahead.
JAMIE
Do you think Mom would be okay with me taking some college credits while in high school?
LEE
You are still a couple of years off from high school, but sure, I think she would be more than okay with you taking some college courses. She's proud of you and so am I. Not all young men have it as together as you do.
Jamie beams again.
LEE (continued)
Looking to get a head start?
JAMIE
I guess.
There is a silence between them again.
EXT. CAR
The Corvette is stopped at a stop light.
INT. CAR
JAMIE
Another question.
LEE
Okay.
JAMIE
Where did you go to college?
LEE
Well, I finally finished at University of Maryland.
CLOSE ON JAMIE.
Jamie gives Lee a questioning look.
The light turns green and Lee moves the car forward.
LEE (continued)
(explaining)
I was kicked out of a couple schools.
JAMIE
You were expelled?
LEE
I wasn’t expelled; I lost my scholarships.
JAMIE
Why? You’re smart. You know more about history than anyone I know.
LEE
It had nothing to do with smarts.
JAMIE
Then why?
LEE
(he takes a deep breath)
I think mostly I was rebelling.
JAMIE
Rebelling against what?
LEE
(mumbled, under his breath)
I thought I was leading this class C interrogation.
JAMIE
Huh?
LEE
Nothing.
(beat)
Against my uncle, the Colonel.
(another beat)
I read somewhere that all teenagers go through some sort of rebellious stage.
(another beat)
And nothing made my uncle madder than him getting a letter from the university telling him my scholarship had been revoked. He would be furious with me and for a small moment, I thought I had won, but I wasn’t hurting anyone but myself.
JAMIE
What got you to finally buckle down, as you say?
LEE
Boredom, I think. I was actually getting tired of changing schools. Plus, my uncle threatened to take away my trust fund if I did not finish school.
Jamie thinks about it and shakes his head. After a moment, he speaks.
JAMIE
What made you become a spy. . . rather intelligence operative? If you can tell me, that is. I mean, you’ve shot people, right?
Lee looks over at Jamie and then quickly pulls the car over to the side of the road. In the background, we see the junior high school, only a few yards away.
LEE
Yes, I have had to use deadly force, but only when necessary.
(beat)
Do you want to talk about it? It’s all right to be scared.
JAMIE
No. I'm okay. I really should be getting to school. Thanks for the ride, Lee.
LEE
Well, let me pull up to the entrance.
Jamie opens the car door.
JAMIE
This is good. I'll see you after school.
LEE
Well, let me pick you up.
JAMIE
I’d rather-
LEE
I'm picking you up and that is final.
JAMIE
Whatever.
Jamie slams the car door, throws his backpack over his shoulder, and quickly walks toward the school.
CLOSE ON LEE
In frustration, he slams the steering wheel. And we. . .
QUICK CUT
EXT. ARLINGTON HEIGHTS JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL – LATER THAT AFTERNOON
Jamie is waiting outside for Lee, near the benches out front. He hears a cough. Startled he turns around and sees BILLY BARTLETT. Billy is a 15-year-old student who is in the 9th grade. He’s tough looking, with long, thick, unruly hair (think Judd Nelson in The Breakfast Club); he also wears a long, dark-grey coat and is smoking a cigarette.
JAMIE
Don’t let Mrs. Dennis see you smoking. You'll be suspended for sure.
BARTLETT
You are such a goody-two shoes, Jamie King.
However, he throws the cigarette onto the ground and crushes it out with the heel of his boot.
JAMIE
Are you waiting for a ride?
BARTLETT
(he growls)
Yeah, the stepmonster is late again. What about you? Do you need a ride somewhere?
JAMIE
No, I’m good. My stepfather is picking me up.
Billy nods his head. He sniffles and wipes his hand across his face.
JAMIE (continued)
I haven’t seen you around the neighborhood lately.
BARTLETT
We moved in with the ‘new little woman,’ after my mom split. Unfortunately, we still live close enough to attend this dump.
He points to the school building.
JAMIE
Yeah, I was sorry to hear about your mom and dad divorcing. I know it’s tough.
BARTLETT
You don’t know nothing, Punk!
Jamie swallows hard and takes a step back.
BARTLETT(continued)
(he takes a couple of deep breaths)
I’m sorry, Jamie. I’ve had a bad day and I’m taking it out on you.
JAMIE
That’s okay. I’ve had a couple rough days myself.
BARTLETT
Not as bad as the stiff in the parking lot.
Jamie turns ashen.
JAMIE
I thought the police-
(beat)
What are you talking about, Billy?
BARTLETT
The dead guy they found shot behind the school yesterday. I read about it in the papers.
(beat)
Hey, is something wrong? You don’t look so good.
(another beat)
We’re friends. You can talk to me.
Jamie thinks about it for a moment.
JAMIE
Yeah, we’re friends.
(beat)
Do you remember the time when you fell out of the tree house and broke your wrist?
BARTLETT
(sarcastically)
Good times.
(beat)
Hey, did you ever make it all the way to the rank of Raccoon?
JAMIE
No, but Phillip did.
(beat)
Mom got this new job a couple years ago, and-
(another beat)
Well, she got too busy to help me finish. But I developed other interests instead.
Billy rubs his nose and sniffles again.
JAMIE
You should really do something about that cold.
BARTLETT
Huh?
JAMIE
My grandmother boils a grapefruit when she’s sick.
BARTLETT
You’re a regular June and Ward Cleaver family, ain’t ya?
JAMIE
But you must know how to get the good drugs.
BARTLETT
What?!
JAMIE
With your dad being a pharmacist and all.
BARTLETT
Yeah, right.
At that moment, Jamie notices the Corvette turn into the student pickup area. Jamie grabs his backpack and Billy also sees the Corvette.
BARTLETT
Sweet ride! What does your stepfather do exactly?
JAMIE
Umm, he’s a director.
BARTLETT
A filmmaker, huh?
JAMIE
Yeah, he directs films for the government. You know, boring documentaries.
(beat)
Well, that’s my ride. Be seein' ya around.
BARTLETT
Sure. Later.
Lee pulls the Corvette to the curb and Jamie climbs in. The Corvette then pulls away and Billy watches the taillights disappear. He then crosses the street and walks over to a payphone. After putting in a quarter, he makes a call.
BARTLETT (on phone)
Yeah, it’s me. I think I know who witnessed the shooting yesterday. . . No, shouldn't be a problem. No problem at all.
CLOSE ON BILLY; we. . .
END OF ACT TWO
ACT THREE
EXT. IFF – GEORGETOWN ENTRANCE – DAY
Camera ZOOMS up on IFF sign.
INT. Q-BUREAU – DAY
Lee is sitting at his desk in front of the computer. He is obviously frustrated with the machine and he ‘hunts and pecks’ when the telephone suddenly RINGS. Lee answers it.
LEE (on phone)
Stetson.
(beat)
She’s out on location today. Can I take a message?
(another beat)
Yes, I’m their stepfather. . . what?! I’ll be right there.
Lee hangs up the phone and then quickly dials another extension.
LEE (on phone)
Francine. It’s Lee. I need you to get a message to Amanda. It’s urgent. . . yes, I know she’s out in the field doing security interviews. It’s a family emergency. Tell her to meet me up at the junior high. I’ll explain everything when I see her. No, neither one is hurt. . . Yes. Okay. Thanks. Bye.
CLOSE ON LEE
As he hangs up the phone. He’s obviously very worried; we. . .
QUICK CUT
INT. ARLINGTON HEIGHTS JUNIOR HIGH – SCHOOL’S OFFICE – DAY
Lee enters the school office at the same time the junior high principal, PRINCIPAL DENNIS, steps out of her office. Phillip and Jamie are sitting on chairs in front of her office door.
LEE
(to Phillip and Jamie)
Are you boys all right?
(to the principal)
What is the meaning of this? I was told over the phone the boys are being suspended. For what, may I ask?
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
Won’t you step into my office, Mr. Stetson?
LEE
(to Phillip and Jamie)
I’ll be right back.
He steps into the office with Principal Dennis and she shuts the door.
INT. PRINCIPAL OFFICE
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
You are the boys’ stepfather, correct?
LEE
Yes.
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
And Mrs. King, rather, Mrs. Stetson is unavailable?
LEE
She should have received word by now. I expect her shortly. Now, what is the meaning of all this?
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
I hate to be the bearer of bad news; after all, I have known Amanda for a number of years now. I used to be the principal at the middle school and I have known both Phillip and Jamie to be responsible young men, so I am very troubled by this latest accusation.
LEE
What were they accused of?
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
Selling drugs.
LEE
What a crock!
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
I agree; however--
She walks over to her desk and opens the drawer. She pulls a plastic bag out, which she then throws on the desk. Inside the bag is Marijuana, PCP, acid, black beauties, and Quaaludes.
PRINCIPAL DENNIS (continued)
This is what was found in Jamie’s locker this morning. Now, you know, Mr. Stetson, we have a zero tolerance policy for drugs on campus.
LEE
Those aren’t his.
She holds up her hand.
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
I’ve heard it all before. However, they were found in his locker. How do you explain that?
LEE
I can’t.
At that moment, they both hear a commotion outside the office. Principal Dennis opens the door. Two blue-clad OFFICERS have entered the school office.
INT. SCHOOL OFFICE
LEE
What is the meaning of this?
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
Sorry, Mr. Stetson, but I did some checking around and interviewed several students who told me Jamie King has been pushing drugs.
Lee looks over at Jamie, who is totally shaken up by the events of the day. He is on the verge of tears. One officer places handcuffs on Jamie, as the other reads him his rights.
OFFICER
Jamie King, you are under arrest. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you.
Jamie is now crying as he is being led out of the office.
LEE
It’s okay, Son. We’ll get you out of this and see you at the station soon.
Lee turns to the office SECRETARY.
LEE
When Amanda arrives, will you please let her know we are down at the police station, and that I have both boys?
SECRETARY
Of course, Mr. Stetson.
Lee exits with Phillip.
Principal Dennis steps up to the office counter and sighs.
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
I guess it goes to show you just don’t know people as well as you think you do.
SECRETARY
Have you known the family long?
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
Yes, I had both boys at the middle school and I’ve known Amanda for years. She was one of our PTA mothers, always reliable, well, that is, until she became involved with that film company.
SECRETARY
Well, you know those movie types. And I understand those poor boys come from a broken home – that explains it all.
In the background, unseen, but standing outside the school office door is Billy Bartlett.
ON BILLY BARTLETT
He smiles.
CUT TO
INT. POLICE STATION INTERROGATION ROOM – DAY
We find Jamie sitting down on a chair, with Amanda sitting next to him, holding his hand for comfort. Lee is pacing the tiny room.
JAMIE
I swear Mom, Lee, those drugs were not mine.
AMANDA
We know, Sweetheart.
JAMIE
What’s going to happen to me?
Amanda looks over at Lee and he nods his head.
AMANDA
Well, the police are going to come in and ask you a few questions. Don’t be scared, be honest. We’ll be here the whole time.
Lee looks at his watch and shakes his head.
LEE
Damn, what is taking them so long?
At that moment, the door opens and in steps Geraldine Jubal.
LEE
What are you doing here? Since when does the DEA become involved in some two-bit ‘drug dealer?’
JUBAL
This is the DEA's collar. And I do not need to explain my presence to you or anyone else.
AMANDA
Would you two stop the posturing? One of my sons has been arrested for a crime he did NOT commit.
LEE
I’m sorry, you are right, Amanda.
JUBAL
I have to apologize, too. One of my agents is dead and I am looking for answers.
AMANDA
All right then.
JUBAL
What do you think we have here?
LEE
A classic frame-up.
JUBAL
I have to agree with you there, Scarecrow. But why?
LEE
To ruin the boys’ credibility. Who is going to believe the witnesses to a murder who are drug dealers?
JUBAL
Plausible.
AMANDA
Already the fallout has begun. After Jamie was arrested, Phillip was kicked off the soccer team.
LEE
(surprised)
Why?
AMANDA
Guilt by association.
JUBAL
Yes, someone is really going out of their way to make your boys appear less than credible.
Agent Jubal appears to be in deep thought. She looks over at the family and then directly at Jamie.
JUBAL (continued)
Young man, I assume you know nothing about those drugs in your locker.
JAMIE
No, Ma’am.
JUBAL
And you have no additional information regarding the murder of a DEA agent.
JAMIE
I told you everything I know, I swear.
JUBAL
Okay, if you think of anything else, you let your mom or Mr. Stetson. . . rather, your stepdad know.
Jamie nods his head.
JAMIE
Yes, um.
JUBAL
Then you are free to go.
JAMIE
I can go?
JUBAL
Yes.
Jamie stands up and shakes the agent’s hand.
JAMIE
Thank you. Thank you.
Agent Jubal is slightly surprised by his politeness.
JUBAL
You are welcome.
(to Lee and Amanda)
I will also call the school and make sure they reverse the suspensions.
AMANDA
Thank you.
JUBAL
Keep me apprised of anything new.
LEE
Will do.
CUT TO
INT. POLICE CHIEF OFFICE – LATER THAT MORNING
The Police Chief is sitting at his desk. He looks up when he hears a KNOCK.
POLICE CHIEF
Come in.
The door opens and in comes Detective Tyrone.
POLICE CHIEF
What can I do for you?
TYRONE
I understand we have a young, punk drug dealer in holding. Would it be okay if I interview him and see what he knows about the murder of the DEA agent behind the junior high school?
POLICE CHIEF
I would if I could, but the assistant D.A. let him go.
TYRONE
What?
POLICE CHIEF
Not enough evidence to convict.
TYRONE
I thought we had him dead to rights.
POLICE CHIEF
You and me both, but you know the DEA. Now, if there is nothing else, could I have my office back?
TYRONE
Yes, of course.
Tyrone steps out of the office.
INT. POLICE STATION BULLPEN
Tyrone leans against the door. He appears nervous.
CLOSE UP ON TYRONE
TYRONE
Damn, the kid must know someone.
(beat)
Time for something a little more drastic.
CUT TO
EXT. ARLINGTON HEIGHTS JUNIOR HIGH – FRONT ENTRANCE – FOLLOWING AFTERNOON
The Wagoneer pulls into the circular drive in front of the junior high school. Phillip and Jamie, who have been waiting for Lee, climb into the Jeep.
EXT. JEEP – DAY
As it passes on a street in the Arlington neighborhood.
LEE (V.O.)
Sorry, I’m running late. The deposition ran longer than we thought.
PHILLIP (V.O.)
Where’s Mom?
LEE (V.O.)
Your mother was just called in when I left to come get you.
INT. JEEP – TRAVELING – DAY
Lee is behind the wheel, Phillip riding shotgun and Jamie is in the middle seat in the back.
JAMIE
That’s okay. It’s just us guys. Can we stop at Marvelous Marvin’s?
PHILLIP
Yeah, I’m starving.
LEE
I don’t know. I don’t want you to ruin your dinner.
PHILLIP
Come on, Lee. We’re growing teenagers.
JAMIE
We will have plenty of room in our tummies by the time dinner comes around.
PHILLIP
Yeah! And you said Mom was running late. We’ll waste away before dinner is ready.
LEE
Okay. Okay. Marvelous Marvin’s it is.
Phillip and Jamie ad-lib “all right, yeah.”
EXT. JEEP
The Wagoneer is traveling down the road. We see a non-descript sedan pull up behind the Jeep and start to follow them.
ON SEDAN
Tyrone is driving.
INT. JEEP
Lee glances at the side-view mirror.
LEE’S POV
INSERT
SHOT of the SEDAN from the MIRROR
RETURN TO SCENE
He then turns his attention back to the road.
INT. JEEP – CONTINUOUS ACTION
Lee floors it, running through a very solid yellow light a second before it turns red.
JAMIE
Whoa!
Lee glances into the rear-view window and notices the sedan did not stop and is now giving chase.
LEE
Hang on, boys.
EXT. JEEP – RUNNING – SAME TIME
OVER the JEEP SCREAMING down the street.
PHILLIP (V.O.)
Lee, what’s going on?
Lee flies around the corner.
INT. JEEP
The chase continues.
LEE’S POV from the side-view mirror he sees a GUN aimed at them.
INT. JEEP – ON LEE
LEE
Everybody get down!
PHILLIP
What?!
With his free hand, Lee reaches across the seat and pushes Phillip down.
At that moment, the glass in the back window shatters.
Jamie screams.
ON SEDAN Tyrone continues to give chase and aims his gun outside the driver’s-side window.
ON GUN
INT. JEEP – ON LEE
We hear a GUN being fired. Then Lee slumps forward.
PHILLIP
Lee? Lee!
Phillip grabs the wheel.
The chase ends as the JEEP SMACKS into a parked car in front of IFF. Witnesses rush to the scene. The sedan chasing them slows down momentarily, then passes the scene; we. . .
END OF ACT THREE
ACT FOUR
INT. AGENCY – Q-BUREAU – DAY
Jamie is sitting on the sofa inside the Q-Bureau, while Phillip paces the room. A moment later, the door opens and in walks DR. KELFORD. Phillip and Jamie appear startled.
DR. KELFORD
Relax, boys. I just came upstairs to give you an update on your stepfather.
Phillip sits down next to Jamie.
DR. KELFORD
He’s fine. The bullet just grazed him and he needed a few stitches, but he has a hard head. He’s always did have a rather thick skull.
PHILLIP
But all that blood. . .
DR. KELFORD
Well, that is because the head has many blood vessels, so head wounds naturally bleed more.
JAMIE
Where’s our Mother?
DR. KELFORD
She’s with him, making sure he stays put.
A second later, the door opens again, and in walks Lee with Amanda sort of supporting him. Lee has a bandage on his head.
LEE
Not anymore.
PHILLIP/JAMIE
(in unison)
Lee!!
They both get up and run to him, giving him a hug.
Dr. Kelford looks at Amanda. She shrugs, as if to say, “I tried.” Kelford shakes his head and leaves.
Lee pushes the boys away from him, and examines them for injuries.
LEE
Are you guys alright?
PHILLIP
Sorry about the damage I did to the Jeep.
LEE
The car can be fixed. I’m sure Leatherneck is assessing the damage now. You two, on the other hand-
Lee chokes up on his words.
Amanda puts her arms around both boys.
AMANDA
I’m glad all three of my men are okay.
JAMIE
Yeah, but you should have seen what Phillip did to that parked car.
PHILLIP
Shut up, Dweeb-o-rama.
Jamie shoves Phillip.
LEE
Hey, you two, knock it off! It’s okay, they belong to the Agency. They’re decoy cars. No harm done.
JAMIE
Are you really okay, Lee?
LEE
Really, just a scratch. Been told a time or two, I have a thick skull. Other than a slight headache, I’m ready to head home. What about you?
PHILLIP/JAMIE
(in unison)
Yeah!
Billy enters the room.
BILLY
I am afraid the homecoming is going to have to wait, Scarecrow.
AMANDA
Sir?
BILLY
Are you two working on anything that would warrant this kind of retaliation?
LEE
No.
Billy shakes his head.
BILLY
Until we know who made the run on you, I would feel a lot more comfortable if you and the family were placed in a safe house.
LEE
Bil-ly.
Billy holds up his hand.
LEE (continued)
I can take care of myself.
BILLY
You have a family to think about now. I’ve already made arrangements for the Cumberland. Now that’s an order.
Billy leaves.
Lee looks at the boys. Their eyes are filled with confusion and concern.
AMANDA
It’s okay, Fellas. It’s only a precaution. And you’ll love the Cumberland. She’s a beautiful old hotel.
CLOSE ON THE BOYS
LEE
It will be fun. I think there’s even cable TV and we can stay up late and watch movies and eat popcorn.
AMANDA
Doesn’t that sound like fun?
JAMIE
What about school?
PHILLIP
What about my social life?
AMANDA
It’s only temporary. A day or two at the most.
LEE
Sure. The Agency will find this bast- I mean, find the jerk responsible and everything will be fine. You’ll see.
JAMIE
What about Grandma?
AMANDA
She’ll come with us, too.
Phillip and Jamie look at each other and shrug.
LEE
Fella’s, can you go downstairs and wait for us? I want to speak to your mother for a moment.
PHILLIP
Okay.
Phillip and Jamie leave.
LEE
Amanda, why don’t you take the boys to the safe house? I’m staying at the office. I’ll call you later.
AMANDA
I know what you are doing. You plan to go after this guy yourself.
LEE
I want this person, whoever he is. Damn it, Amanda, I had the boys with me!
AMANDA
I know.
LEE
Take the boys and your Mother and stay there.
AMANDA
No.
LEE
Yes.
AMANDA
No.
LEE
A-man-da.
AMANDA
No, Lee. You are part of this family now and we are going to stay together as a family.
LEE
If anything happened to you or one of the boys. . .
Amanda places her fingers over Lee’s lips, shushing him.
AMANDA
I know.
QUICK CUT
EXT. CUMBERLAND HOTEL – ESTABLISHING – MORNING
FULL SHOT
The Cumberland is a large impressive older hotel with ivy growing on the exterior walls.
INT. HOTEL SUITE – DAY
DOTTY WEST is already up and dressed and sitting in a recliner, reading a book when she hears a light KNOCK on the door. She walks over to the door, but does not open it.
DOTTY
Yes.
MAN’S VOICE (O.C.)
(filtered)
You have a visitor.
DOTTY
Oh. Well. I mean. . . Is it safe?
MAN’S VOICE (O.C.)
(filtered)
He’s clean.
DOTTY
Just a moment.
She slides the security door latch and opens the door. We see an AGENT guarding the door and T. PERCIVAL AQUINAS standing in the hallway, carrying three or four paper bags.
T.P.
Bonjour. T. Percival Aquinas at your service. You must be the lovely Dotty West. Your daughter talks about you often.
DOTTY
Well, aren’t you the charmer? I‘m sorry to say that Amanda has never mentioned you. But then again she rarely tells me anything about her work.
He holds up the bags he is carrying.
T.P.
Lee called me last night and asked me to bring you some groceries.
DOTTY
Oh.
T.P.
May I come in?
DOTTY
Yes, of course. Won’t you come in?
(beat)
Everyone is still asleep.
T.P.
Well, why don’t I whip together some breakfast? That should rouse the sleepy bunch.
DOTTY
You don’t need to do that.
T.P.
It would be my pleasure.
The two of them walk toward the kitchenette.
INT. KITCHENETTE – DAY
We see a small kitchen with a small nook for eating.
T.P.
It’s nice that the larger suites have these kitchenettes available for the guests.
He begins to unload the groceries and places them on the counter.
DOTTY
Can I help with something?
T.P.
Yes, I could use some help slicing these strawberries.
He hands her a small cutting board, a knife, and a package of strawberries. Dotty picks off the green tops and then slices the fresh fruit.
DOTTY
Have you known Lee and Amanda long?
T.P. is mixing up some batter.
T.P.
I have known Lee for several years now, back to when he was a freshman agent.
DOTTY
You aren’t. . . well, I mean, don’t take this the wrong way, but you aren’t one of his-
(almost whispers)
Snitches.
T.P.
Heavens, no.
(beat)
Although, I do help out Lee and Amanda, from time to time. I’m an antiquarian and I have helped them with research. I’m more of an advisor.
DOTTY
You advise them about antiques?
T.P.
No, an antiquarian. I mostly focus on historical archives.
DOTTY
Ah, and where did you learn to cook?
T.P.
I didn’t bum the world like Lee did, but from time to time in my research I will find a new recipe and try it, sometimes shake things up a little and make it my own.
DOTTY
And what is on the menu today?
T.P.
I thought we could do strawberry crêpes.
Dotty stands next to him.
DOTTY
Ohhh, I love crêpes.
T.P.
The trick to making perfect crêpes is to use a stainless steel pan, because the pan needs to heat evenly.
He takes out a steel pan from one of the cupboards.
T.P. (continued)
Also, don’t flip it too early. Wait until the surface of your crêpe is no longer shiny and the edges are starting to brown before you try and flip it.
He demonstrates for her, finishes preparing one, puts it on a plate and hands the plate to her.
Dotty takes a bite.
DOTTY
Mm-hm. Heavenly.
Amanda enters the room. She is dressed in a nightgown and robe.
T.P.
Good morning, Mrs. Stetson.
AMANDA
Morning, T.P. I see you have met my mother.
T.P.
Yes, and she has been delightful company.
(beat)
Where’s the rest of the family?
AMANDA
They should be out soon.
T.P.
Sit down, Mrs. Stetson.
T.P. prepares another plate and delivers it to Amanda. Amanda takes a bite.
AMANDA
Oh, wow. So light and fluffy.
At that moment, Lee and the boys arrive. Lee is dressed in a sweatshirt and jeans. The boys are still in their pajamas.
T.P.
Morning, Lee, can I interest you in a crêpe?
AMANDA
Just coffee for him, T.P.
LEE
I would love a crêpe or two.
Amanda shoots him a look.
LEE
What?
QUICK CUT
INT. KITCHENETTE – SEVERAL MINUTES LATER
New scene – breakfast is now over, dirty dishes cover the table. Amanda, Dotty, Jamie, and Phillip are sitting around the table. Lee is leaning against the wall, with his arms crossed. T.P. is standing behind the table, telling stories.
T.P.
More Turkish coffee, Leezo?
LEE
Sure.
T.P. pours more coffee into Lee’s mug.
JAMIE
You sure know a lot about everything Mr. Aquinas.
PHILLIP
Yeah, and your stories are more entertaining than Lee's.
LEE
Hey!
JAMIE
Yes, you are quite the storyteller. I bet your kids love the stories you tell. How many kids do you have?
The room grows silent.
JAMIE (continued)
I am sorry, did I say something wrong?
T.P.
(clears his throat)
No, it’s okay, Jamie. You said nothing wrong.
(beat)
I had a son.
(another beat)
He was killed in a drive-by shooting a few years back.
DOTTY
Oh, my. How awful.
PHILLIP
Was it gang related?
AMANDA
Hush, Phillip.
T.P.
No, Amanda, it’s all right. Actually, it’s somehow comforting when I talk about them.
(beat)
It was one of those wrong place, wrong time situations. My wife and six-year-old son were caught in the crossfire over a turf war with drug kingpins.
JAMIE
(quiet voice)
I saw someone gunned down. It’s pretty gruesome.
T.P.
I know you did.
AMANDA
I just wish there was more we could do to stop the drug trafficking and those who push drugs on children. Being a mother of teenage boys this scares me to death.
LEE
I’m afraid the war on drugs, although it's the First Lady’s pet project, and even though it includes the popular catchphrase “Just say no,” is an un-winnable war.
AMANDA
Lee-
LEE
No, Amanda. I’m being a realist.
PHILLIP
We see it all the time.
AMANDA
You do?
PHILLIP
Well, yeah, sure. We all know what goes on behind the football bleachers. They aren’t just smoking cigarettes.
JAMIE
"Come on. It’s just a little joint. It’s not addictive or anything."
AMANDA
Is that what you are hearing at school?
JAMIE
No, not really. That is what health teachers tell us we'll hear from our peers, but no one has ever approached me.
AMANDA
What about you, Phillip?
PHILLIP
Well, sure.
AMANDA
Well, sure, what?
PHILLIP
Junior high kids are doing it, but I might not be as smart as Brainiac here, but I’m not stupid enough to try it.
AMANDA
Maybe we should think about changing schools.
PHILLIP
No, Mom. We like Arlington Heights.
JAMIE
What about my Honors classes?
PHILLIP
What about our friends?
JAMIE
Yeah, Phillip would die if he couldn’t make googly eyes at Patty Newton in sixth period.
Phillip shoves Jamie.
PHILLIP
Shut up!
Jamie shoves back.
LEE
Boys!
PHILLIP
Mom, I worked so hard to make the soccer team, please don’t make us change schools.
LEE
All schools have problems, Amanda.
AMANDA
I know, but thirteen year olds should not be doing drugs. Nor witnessing drug-related violence.
LEE
Yes, but running away from the problem is not the solution. You taught me that.
The room is silent as everyone looks at Amanda. She nods her head. The family cheers.
JAMIE
Lee?
LEE
Hmm?
JAMIE
Didn’t the DEA keep the shooting of the DEA agent out of the news?
LEE
Yes, Son.
CLOSE ON JAMIE – see the wheels turning.
AMANDA
What is it, Jamie?
JAMIE
I’m just remembering something Billy Bartlett said to me.
AMANDA
Sweet little Billy Bartlett? I haven’t seen him in years.
PHILLIP
He’s changed Mom.
JAMIE
Yeah, really changed. Always wearing black, acts tough, always smoking.
DOTTY
You know, broken home.
AMANDA
Mother, I will not hear those generalities. This family unit comes from a broken home, too.
DOTTY
I’m sorry, Amanda. You are correct.
T.P.
Stereotypes have been around for centuries. The first reference to "stereotype" in its modern use in English, outside of printing, was in 1850, in a noun, meaning "image perpetuated without change.”
DOTTY
Like all spies are suave and debonair.
LEE
Hey!
DOTTY
Present company excluded, of course.
AMANDA
Or all Hollywood types-
(beat)
Wait a minute! With all the excitement, I forgot to mention, the day before Jamie was arrested, someone called the Agency to check on our film covers.
LEE
What? Did the switchboard say who was asking?
AMANDA
No, they were not on the phone long enough for a trace.
LEE
Why would someone be checking into our documentary film covers?
Amanda shrugs her shoulders.
AMANDA
You, yourself, said it Lee, about the boys’ credibility. If we look at the stereotypes of filmmakers, most would assume we are not the wholesome family we project to the public.
LEE
But we are.
AMANDA
I know we are, and you know we are, but think about those on the outside.
LEE
But that’s just wrong.
DOTTY
You know what they say about assuming?
JAMIE
And Billy asked about what you did for a living after seeing the ‘vette, and that was after he asked about the shooting at the junior high.
LEE
How did he know about it?
JAMIE
He said he read about it in the newspaper.
AMANDA
That is not possible; the DEA had a media blackout on the incident.
Jamie shrugs.
T.P.
I think your spy-in-training is onto something.
Jamie beams.
JAMIE
I am?
LEE
He’s got good instincts, just like his mother.
Amanda puts her arm around Jamie.
LEE (continued)
Then this was not a run on the Agency, like we thought. It was a run on the family, specifically, the boys. If the boys are not around to testify, then this drug dealer would be free to continue to push drugs and would get away with murder.
DOTTY
What now, Lee?
LEE
We call the DEA, have them bring in Billy Bartlett and find out what he knows. Hopefully, he can tell them who is supplying Arlington Heights Junior High.
CUT TO
INT. CUMBERLAND HOTEL – SITTING ROOM - SEVERAL MINUTES LATER
Lee is on the phone. Amanda is sitting on the sofa, half listening to the conversation. Lee hangs up and sits on the arm of the sofa.
LEE
That was Billy.
Amanda nods her head.
LEE (continued)
He feels it would be for the best if we all stayed here for another night.
AMANDA
Did the DEA bring Billy in for questioning?
LEE
Yes, and he’s singing like a canary.
AMANDA
Do we know who was supplying the drugs?
LEE
Would you believe it was a crooked narcotics cop?
Amanda scowls.
LEE (continued)
The DEA has nets out to catch this guy. They’ll get him and we can put this all behind us.
AMANDA
Lee-
LEE
I know, all it takes is one bad apple.
(beat)
Billy needs me to come into the office for a couple hours, but I think I will swing by the house first to make sure everything is okay there.
AMANDA
Be safe.
(beat)
Love you.
He leans over and kisses her.
LEE
Love you, too.
In the background, hidden in the shadows is Jamie, who has overheard the conversation.
QUICK CUT
EXT. LEE AND AMANDA’S HOUSE – DAY
Agency sedan parked in the street in front of the house on Maplewood. Lee walks down the walkway and through the front door.
INT. ENTRYWAY – DAY
Lee comes down the steps into the entryway. Startled when he hears a noise, he reaches for his gun.
CAMERA PANS FOLLOWING HIM
Lee creeps into the living room.
INT. LIVING ROOM – DAY
Puzzled, he sees the television on. We hear STATIC from the television.
ANGLE ON TELEVISION SCENE
The screen is snowy.
Lee shakes his head and mumbles “boys” under his breath, thinking one of the boys forgot to turn it off. He bends down to turn off the set. Behind him, a gloved hand reaches INTO FRAME belts him over the head with a gun. Lee crumples to the floor. His gun slides across the carpet and behind the sofa.
ON GUN
and we. . .
QUICK CUT
INT. LIVING ROOM – A FEW MOMENTS LATER
LEE’S POV
Someone throws water on Lee’s face. He wakes up. It takes a moment for him to focus.
CAMERA WIDENS TO REVEAL
Lee with his hands handcuffed behind his back, sitting on the sofa. Tyrone is standing over him. Seeing Lee is awake, he keeps his gun trained on him, but sits in one of the wingback chairs opposite the sofa.
LEE
Who are you? What do you want?
TYRONE
The million-dollar question, isn’t it, Mr. Stetson, or should I call you Scarecrow?
LEE
I don’t know what you are talking about.
TYRONE
I checked out your cover story the other day, but something just did not seem to track. Call it a gut instinct, the same instinct I had with that DEA agent. I knew he couldn’t be a soccer coach, he knew nothing about the game. And you just don’t come across as a film director.
(beat)
So I called in some favors and found out you two were not who you claim to be, but instead another one of these damn Feds trying to bust up my gig.
(another beat)
Well, I just can’t let that happen, you see.
Lee remains quiet.
ON LEE'S RESTRAINED HANDS
We see he has a half rake in his hand and is working the lock.
LEE
What do you plan to do with me?
TYRONE
Why, kill you, of course, but not here.
Tyrone stands up and walks over to the fireplace mantel.
TYRONE (continued)
Some place less messy and some place where less questions will be asked.
From the corner of his eye, Lee sees Jamie crouched in the kitchen, hidden behind the island. Lee shakes his head, “no.”
TYRONE (continued)
The real question is what to do with your family and your meddling sons?
LEE
(angry)
You leave them alone!
TYRONE
Temper. Temper.
(beat)
A gang-related hit should work nicely. Neighbors will just think it was a drug deal gone wrong. Just another senseless death in Washington, D.C. Many won’t even bat an eyelash over it. After all, I’ve already sown the seeds of doubt, by planting those drugs in your son’s locker.
Suddenly, Tyrone is startled by a sound he hears coming from the kitchen. It is enough of a distraction for Lee to get up off the sofa and plow into Tyrone. They struggle, Tyrone’s gun dangerously close to going off. Lee manages to get in a couple good punches, while Jamie runs behind the sofa and grabs Lee’s Beretta.
ANGLE ON JAMIE
He AIMS the gun at the two men.
Lee knocks Tyrone out with one last good punch.
LEE
(to Jamie)
It’s over. Give me the gun.
Jamie has the gun trained on Tyrone. His hands shaking. Tyrone is beginning to wake up.
JAMIE
(angry)
You were a police officer! You were supposed to uphold the law!
Lee has come up behind Jamie.
LEE
He will pay for his crimes.
(beat)
Now, hand me the gun, Son.
Jamie looks at Tyrone and then back to Lee. Cautiously, he hands over the gun to Lee. Lee takes it and places it back in his holster. He then holds out his arms and Jamie accepts the invite, as we hear SIRENS in the background.
ON LEE AND JAMIE. . . FREEZE FRAME
END OF ACT FOUR
TAG
EXT. ARLINGTON HEIGHTS JUNIOR HIGH – SOCCER FIELD – SATURDAY AFTERNOON
There is a soccer game going on the field at the junior high school. Parents are in the sideline stands cheering. Lee and Amanda are there watching the game, clapping and cheering. Jamie is off to the side taking pictures.
ANGLE ON SCOREBOARD
The scoreboard reads Home 3, Visitors 2. The clock is rapidly counting down and time is running out. There is less than a minute left in the game.
CLOSE ON PHILLIP, who is in the goalie's position. He is dressed in the school’s sports uniform and wearing a long-sleeved jersey and goalkeeper gloves. He points his arms toward the ground with his hands open.
Phillip is yelling commands to his defenders.
The other team has the ball and they are making a final play for the game. A midfielder passes to the striker.
The striker approaches fast, he then kicks the ball toward the right far corner of the goal.
At the last second, Phillip lunges toward the ball and catches it, holding it against his chest.
We hear the BUZZER announcing the end of game. All the Arlington Heights Junior High players enthusiastically embrace Phillip after his save and hold up ‘we’re number one’ signs with their fingers. The other team appears dejected.
CLOSE ON PHILLIP who is beaming with pride as he gives a thumbs up to Lee and Amanda and Jamie, who is now standing next to them. Lee puts his arms around both Amanda and Jamie and we. . . FREEZE FRAME.
FADE OUT:
THE END
PROLOGUE
EXT. SUBURBAN STREET IN ARLINGTON – DAY
There is an older Honda Accord parked against the curb.
The scene opens with a MAN sitting in his car; we don’t see his face, just the back of his head. His mobile phone RINGS. He answers it.
MAN
Hello. . . speaking. . . yes, I’ve got the cash. Do you have the merchandise? Good. Listen Kid, I have a rather large order I would like to place, but I will only deal directly with your boss. . . Could you arrange a meet? Great! Tell him I can meet him at the school in--
He looks at his watch.
MAN (continued)
. . . thirty minutes.
He hangs up the phone.
MAN
I have you now.
QUICK CUT
ACT ONE
EXT. ARLINGTON HEIGHTS JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL – SOCCER FIELD – DAY
It is a cool, crisp late autumn morning. Fog is slowly beginning to lift. We see PHILLIP and JAMIE walking up to the soccer field. Phillip is carrying a mesh bag full of soccer balls. He is dressed in a long-sleeve shirt and shorts, wearing long socks, shin guards and cleats. He is also wearing goalkeeper gloves. Jamie is dressed in sweatpants, a matching sweatshirt, and tennis shoes.
THE CAMERA FOLLOWS THEM
PHILLIP
Thanks for helping me practice catching drills this morning.
Jamie shrugs.
JAMIE
It’s my school, too. And I want to see our team cream the Tigersharks.
They stop in front of the soccer goal net on one side of the field. Phillip then takes the balls out of the mesh bag and places them in a row a few yards from the goal. He then begins to juggle the soccer ball on his knees and feet expertly.
PHILLIP
If I don’t get to practice my goaltending we’ll be liquidated.
JAMIE
Yeah, too bad Todd Grimes broke his wrist tripping over Jessie Ruther in gym class.
PHILLIP
And a week before semi-finals.
JAMIE
Coach Reynolds was furious.
(beat)
You as backup goalkeeper are our only hope.
PHILLIP
And I haven’t had much time goalkeeping this season. Grimes has my skills beat.
He stops juggling the ball and kicks it over to Jamie who stops it with his feet.
PHILLIP (continued)
Nice stop.
JAMIE
What is it you need me to do?
Phillip walks over to the net and stands in a ready position.
PHILLIP
Just keep kicking those balls to me or you can throw the ball. But try to aim in areas where it would be more difficult for me to save.
JAMIE
Right.
Jamie then strikes the first ball solidly and Phillip saves it from rolling into the net. Jamie kicks another ball and another ball and Phillip keeps fending off the balls at the correct moments. Jamie then throws a couple of the soccer balls toward the goal post corners. Phillip dives and catches.
JAMIE
Nice save.
PHILLIP
Thanks.
Jamie is down to the last ball.
JAMIE
Okay, this one I’m going to kick hard.
ON PHILLIP
Phillip nods his head. He stands in a ready position and keeps his eyes on the ball. His hands open.
ON JAMIE
Jamie runs up on the ball and strikes it solidly with the inside kick.
WIDEN
The ball sails widely over the net and rolls down the hill.
PHILLIP
Way to go, Wormbrain! Now, go get it.
Jamie reluctantly heads off the field and walks toward the area where the ball rolled. He spots it in some blackberry bushes. He then walks down the hillside. From his angle, in the background Jamie can see the backside of the school gym and he witnesses the assistant coach, RANDY JACOBSEN, a black man in his early 30s, standing outside. He is the same man from the earlier scene. Jamie is about to wave to the coach when he observes a red sports car pull into a parking space and another black man get out. This man is in his late 20s and we later learn he is TYRONE HESSTON. Randy acknowledges the man and then the two enter the school building.
Jamie shrugs his shoulders and begins to walk back toward the soccer field.
In the background, the double doors open and the two men step out.
Jamie, who is still hidden from view by the bushes, looks up when he hears the two men arguing. Note: We do not hear what they are arguing about.
Tyrone draws a gun and shoots the coach.
ON BIRDS
Sparrows in the trees fly off at the sound of gunfire.
In the background, the man fires his weapon again, glances around, then gets back into his sports car and drives off.
ON JAMIE
He is paralyzed by fear.
QUICK CUT
EXT. ARLINGTON HEIGHTS JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL – PARKING LOT – DAY
We see crime tape around the scene and several police cars surrounding the parking lot outside the junior high school. We also see an ambulance pull away from the schoolyard – without the emergency lights on. Police officers are milling around.
ON PATROL CAR
Phillip and Jamie are in the backseat. The car door is open. Jamie has a blanket covering his shoulders. We hear a lot of police chatter over the radio.
ON WAGONEER
The Jeep Wagoneer pulls up to the scene.
LEE and AMANDA get out of the Jeep. Lee flashes his ID and an officer points in the direction of the boys.
ON PATROL CAR
Jamie and Phillip see their mom and stepdad and dash out of the car toward them. Jamie hugs his mom first and then Lee. He recoils back when he feels Lee’s gun hidden by his suit jacket. He steps back into his mother’s embrace.
Lee and Amanda share a glance.
LEE
Let me talk to the officer in charge and see if we can get out of here.
AMANDA
Thanks, Sweetheart.
Lee walks away. Amanda hugs Jamie and then pulls Phillip toward her. In the background, we see Lee talking to an officer.
AMANDA (continued)
Thank God you boys are okay.
(beat)
Jamie, do you want to talk about it?
Jamie shakes his head.
AMANDA
It might help.
Jamie shakes his head a second time.
AMANDA
All right, we just want you to know that we are here for you when you are ready to talk.
Lee returns to his family.
LEE
I just talked with Detective Owens and he said they have the boys’ statements and we are free to go.
They all walk toward the Wagoneer. Lee opens the passenger door for Amanda and she sits down in the front seat. Lee then opens the backdoor for the boys. The boys climb into the backseat and he shuts the door then he suddenly spots another car pull up beside the Jeep. He sees BILLY and a woman he does not immediately recognize get out of Billy’s sedan. Billy walks over to Lee, while the woman hangs back.
BILLY
How are the boys doing?
LEE
They're shaken up, of course.
BILLY
Yes, understandable.
LEE
What brings you out here, Billy?
BILLY
I know you are familiar with Geraldine Jubal.
LEE
The head of the DEA? Reputation only, but I have heard she’s a real hard nose. Her and Smyth’s crusade a few months ago almost got T.P. killed. Why?
The woman, GERALDINE JUBAL, leaning against Billy’s sedan, clears her throat. She is in her 40s and dressed in business attire.
BILLY
Scarecrow, let me introduce you to Geraldine Jubal. She's going to need the boys’ statements.
LEE
Now, wait a minute, the police said they were done with questioning.
BILLY
This is no longer a police matter.
Amanda steps out of the Jeep to see what is going on.
AMANDA
(to the boys)
Stay in the car.
(to Billy and Lee)
Lee? Sir?
BILLY
Amanda King, meet Geraldine Jubal, head of the DEA.
AMANDA
DEA?
She looks from Lee, then Billy, then Agent Jubal, and back to Lee.
Everyone begins talking at once. Billy whistles to get Lee and Amanda’s attention.
LEE
What’s going on, Billy? Why does the DEA want to talk to our boys?
Billy nods to Agent Jubal, encouraging her to take the lead.
JUBAL
Your boys witnessed the murder of a DEA agent. You see, Mr. Jacobsen was one of my agents.
OFF LEE AND AMANDA’S STUNNED LOOK
QUICK CUT
EXT. ARLINGTON HEIGHTS JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL – PARKING LOT – A FEW MOMENTS LATER
AMANDA
What? One of your agents?
Agent Jubal nods her head.
LEE
Let me see if I get this straight. The assistant soccer coach at Arlington Heights Junior High was really an agent?
JUBAL
Yes, Randy Jacobsen was undercover DEA.
AMANDA
At a junior high school? That’s crazy.
(beat)
They’re just kids here. This isn’t a high school or a college campus. We’re talking about a junior high school.
JUBAL
We’ve arrested kids as young as twelve for dealing.
(beat)
May I ask why your boys were here? On a day when there was no school.
Lee clenches his fists, but Amanda places a hand on his shoulder.
AMANDA
(feisty)
My sons were here practicing soccer. If Mr. Jacobson was your agent, you would know that my son, Phillip, is backup goalkeeper. He was here with his brother practicing for Saturday’s game.
JUBAL
I mean no disrespect.
Billy gives a stern look to Lee and Amanda.
BILLY
None taken.
The agents continue to size each other up. Billy realizes he is going to have to defuse the situation.
BILLY (continued)
How about I get a statement from Phillip and Jamie down at the Agency?
AMANDA
Sir-
Billy holds up his hand.
BILLY
They know me. And you two can be in the room with them. This is questioning only, not an interrogation. Okay?
Amanda looks to Lee and he nods his head. Billy then talks to Agent Jubal.
BILLY (continued)
I will fax over the report to you. Is that satisfactory?
JUBAL
I guess it will have to be.
Billy motions for Agent Jubal to get into his sedan. He then turns to his agents.
BILLY
I expect you two in the office in an hour. I will let Mrs. Marston know to expect company.
AMANDA
Sir-
BILLY
We’ll have everything set up in the Q-Bureau.
Lee blows out a breath, looks over at Amanda, and then puts his arm around her shoulder.
LEE
Yes, we’ll see you in an hour.
Billy gets into the car and drives off. Amanda looks up at Lee.
AMANDA
Lee-
LEE
Don’t worry, Amanda. I won’t let anything happen to our boys.
Amanda leans her head against his shoulder; we. . .
QUICK CUT
EXT. AGENCY GEORGETOWN ENTRANCE SIGN – DAY
WIDE SHOT of the Agency. Then the camera ZOOMS up onto a second story window.
INT. AGENCY – Q-BUREAU – DAY
Jamie is sitting at Amanda’s desk surrounded by stacks of mug shot books. Amanda is hovering over him. Meanwhile, Phillip is sitting at Lee’s desk. Lee is pacing between the two desks. Jamie finishes a book and hands it to Lee who adds it to the dead pile. Jamie starts another book, finishes a page and then turns it. He stops then turns back.
AMANDA
Do you see someone you might recognize?
JAMIE
Maybe. I’m not sure.
Lee comes up behind Jamie and puts his hands on his shoulders.
LEE
Take your time, Sport.
Bored Phillip starts flipping through one of the books.
PHILLIP
Are these really photos of spies?
Lee groans.
PHILLIP (continued)
Sorry, intelligence operatives.
AMANDA
No, the DEA brought these over. These are pictures of known drug dealers.
PHILLIP
Mom, can we take a break?
JAMIE
Yeah, we’re starving.
AMANDA
(to Jamie)
Are you okay? You did witness something upsetting.
Jamie exchanges a glance with Phillip and then shrugs.
PHILLIP
I’m sure he’s seen worse on television.
AMANDA
Fellas, this is real life.
There is an awkward silence for a few moments.
LEE
Why don’t I see if there is something in the snack machine in the breakroom?
(beat)
I know sometimes having something in my stomach helps me focus.
PHILLIP
Can I go with you?
LEE/AMANDA
(in unison)
No!
LEE
Sorry, Phillip. You boys only have access to our office tonight. The rest of the Agency is off limits. Do you understand?
JAMIE
Yes.
PHILLIP
I guess.
LEE
Okay, I will be right back with some snacks. Amanda, can I get you anything?
AMANDA
No, thank you, Sweetheart. I’m good.
LEE
Okay.
Lee leaves the Q-Bureau.
CAMERA FOLLOWS LEE DOWN THE STAIRS.
MRS. MARSTON is sitting at her desk. Billy exits out of the closet elevator.
BILLY
Scarecrow, how’s it going up there?
Lee shoves his hands into his pockets and rocks back on his heels.
LEE
Jamie is taking this a lot better than I thought he would.
BILLY
(nods his head)
Children are resilient.
LEE
No, I don’t think it’s that.
BILLY
Maybe, it hasn’t hit him yet.
LEE
That might be it. I remember the first time I witnessed someone murdered. . . well, let’s just say my mind was not on food.
BILLY
Yes, but I don’t think Jamie is going to finish a half bottle of Scotch.
(beat)
Would you like me to have him talk with Dr. Pfaff?
LEE
NO!
BILLY
Okay. I won’t ask him.
(beat)
Can I go to the DEA with anything?
Lee shakes his head.
LEE
Jamie has gone over the arrest photos the DEA sent over and he has yet to recognize the shooter.
(beat)
Perhaps he’s new in town or doesn’t have an arrest record.
BILLY
Do we have anything to go on?
LEE
Not anything the police and DEA don’t already have.
Billy nods his head.
BILLY
Well, keep me apprised. In the meantime, Francine has the boys’ statements, along with the account Jamie gave the police and a vague description of the suspect – it’s too bad he didn’t get a better look at the perp.
(beat)
I will have her fax what we have to them. It’s in the DEA’s hands now.
Billy hands his ID badge to Mrs. Marston then exits out the front door while Lee enters the closet elevator.
QUICK CUT
EXT. POLICE STATION – ESTABLISHING – DAY
A wide-angle view of the street in front of a police station. Police cars are parked in front and people are seen entering and leaving the building.
The camera ZOOMS up on a POLICEMAN walking up the stairs with Tyrone Hesston. Tyrone has his hands behind his back. It almost appears that the police officer is leading Tyrone into the station. The policeman opens the double glass doors and Tyrone steps through. Tyrone then drops his hands to his side. Then the two men part company.
INT. POLICE STATION – DAY
The camera follows Tyrone as he walks down a corridor of the station. He then enters the bullpen. Other plainclothes officers mill around. A POLICE CHIEF steps out of his office. He is an older, well-built, Caucasian man.
POLICE CHIEF
Well, look who decided to grace us with his presence.
TYRONE
Sorry, Cap. My alarm didn’t go off this morning. It won’t happen again.
POLICE CHIEF
Make sure it doesn’t.
(beat)
Now, get to work. I expect those reports on my desk by noon.
TYRONE
Yes, Sir.
Tyrone walks over to a group of desks in the bullpen and sits down at his desk.
The camera ZOOMS onto a nameplate on the desk. It reads, “Detective Hesston, Narcotics.”
And we. . .
END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO
INT. NARCOTICS DEPARTMENT – A FEW MOMENTS LATER – DAY
Detective Hesston is sitting at his desk, typing up a report on his typewriter, when another man sits on the corner of his desk. This is detective LANCE ROCCO, he is in his early 30s, but already balding and a bit heavy set. He picks up a stress ball off the desk and begins to squeeze it.
ROCCO
Hey, where were you last night?
TYRONE
Um, I had a date.
ROCCO
She must have been one hot señorita for you to skip beer and steaks at Randy’s with us.
Tyrone pantomimes her figure and Rocco whistles.
ROCCO (continued)
You sure missed one hell of a game. That 52-yard punt return by Darrell Green for the go-ahead touchdown was the key play of the game. The Redskins are going all the way this year!
TYRONE
Don’t we know it!
They high five.
TYRONE (continued)
Did I miss anything at roll call?
ROCCO
(shrugs)
Same old, same old.
(beat)
Oh, except some DEA agent was capped yesterday.
TYRONE
(playing it cool)
DEA? Where?
ROCCO
Out behind the junior high school. He was some sort of undercover agent posing as an assistant soccer coach.
Tyrone nods his head.
TYRONE
What a shame.
ROCCO
Yeah, all the alphabet agencies are all over this.
TYRONE
Any leads?
ROCCO
No, not much.
Tyrone nods his head again.
ROCCO (continued)
Although, I guess there was a witness to the shooting.
TYRONE
Witness?
ROCCO
Yeah, a junior high kid, I guess.
Tyrone starts to flush.
ROCCO
Hey, you don’t look so good.
TYRONE
I don’t feel so good.
He stands up.
TYRONE (continued)
I might be coming down with that stomach flu that has been making the rounds around here.
ROCCO
Oh yeah, boy, is it nasty.
Tyrone walks toward the chief’s office and softly knocks on the door before sticking his head in. The police chief is sitting at his deck. He looks up.
INT. POLICE CHIEF OFFICE
POLICE CHIEF
What can I do for you, Hesston?
TYRONE
I know I just got in, but I’m not feeling so good.
POLICE CHIEF
(holds up his hand)
Say no more.
(beat)
Go home.
TYRONE
Thanks.
POLICE CHIEF
(shakes head; mumbles)
Stupid bug has taken out half my department.
Tyrone turns to leave and then stops at the door.
POLICE CHIEF
Feel better soon. I need you on this case.
TYRONE
The DEA agent?
POLICE CHIEF
I know you canvas the area down there.
TYRONE
Yeah, I have some informants at the junior high.
POLICE CHIEF
Good. Maybe when you feel better you can nose around. See if they know anything.
TYRONE
I thought there was a witness.
POLICE CHIEF
Actually, two. Brothers who happened to be playing up at the soccer field when this went down, but I think only one saw it go down.
(beat)
Too bad he didn’t get a better look at the perp.
TYRONE
Yeah.
(beat)
Do we know who these witnesses are?
POLICE CHIEF
No, this is the DEA’s show. They have put a lid on it. We are available for assistance only.
TYRONE
Yes. Yes, of course.
POLICE CHIEF
Now, go home and get some rest. I expect to see you on time for roll call tomorrow.
TYRONE
You bet.
CLOSE UP ON TYRONE. He looks worried.
QUICK CUT
EXT. KING-STETSON HOUSE – EARLY MORNING
Camera focuses on the 4247 sign.
JAMIE (O.C.)
Mom?!
AMANDA (O.C.)
What, Sweetheart?
Camera ZOOMS through kitchen window.
INT. KITCHEN – EARLY MORNING
The early morning sun is filtering into the kitchen and we see Amanda standing by the stove, cooking breakfast. She’s wearing a nightgown and robe. Lee’s not dressed for work either, and is sitting down at the island, reading the newspaper.
JAMIE
How could you?
AMANDA
How could I what?
JAMIE
How could you let me sleep in? Now I’m going to be late.
Amanda looks over at Lee and then back at Jamie.
JAMIE (continued)
And why aren’t you ready for work?
Amanda bites her lip.
AMANDA
Well, you see, Mr. Melrose gave us the day off. He thought it would be best if we spent the day together as a family.
(beat)
I already called the school and told them we were keeping you home.
JAMIE
I can’t miss school. I have a big Algebra test today.
Phillip enters the kitchen and grabs a piece of bacon off a plate by the stove. Amanda slaps his hand.
PHILLIP
Really, we have a free day? All right!
Phillip walks over to the breakfast table. Amanda flips the pancakes she is cooking and then places them onto a plate and carries them over to the breakfast nook.
AMANDA
(to Jamie)
I made your favorite chocolate chip pancakes. Now, why don’t you sit down and eat.
She ruffles Jamie’s hair.
AMANDA (continued)
Is there anything else I can make for you? Scrambled eggs or toast?
JAMIE
(shakes head)
No, what I need is a ride to school.
PHILLIP
What’s a matter, Dork? Missing one day isn’t going be the end of the world.
AMANDA
(to Phillip)
Sit down and eat your pancakes.
Phillip sits down and begins to dig in.
AMANDA
(to Jamie; gently)
Sweetheart, I think it would be best if you stayed home today. I am sure if I call your teacher and explain the situation you can make up the exam at a later date. You had quite a shock yesterday.
JAMIE
Really, Mom, I’m fine.
(beat; to Lee)
Lee, can you give me a ride to school?
Lee looks at Jamie and then up at Amanda. She shrugs. He gets up, walks over to a key rack, and tosses Jamie a set of keys.
LEE
Sure. Why don’t you warm up the ‘vette for me and give me about ten minutes to get ready?
JAMIE
Thanks, Lee.
He grabs his backpack and dashes out of the kitchen.
AMANDA
What was that all about?
Lee shrugs.
PHILLIP
(from across the kitchen)
He’s a dorkus.
LEE/AMANDA
(in unison)
Phillip!!
PHILLIP
What?
CLOSE ON LEE AND AMANDA; we. . .
CUT TO
EXT. ARLINGTON STREET – A FEW MINUTES LATER
To show the Corvette driving along the road.
INT. CORVETTE – DAY
Lee is driving down the road with his hands on the steering wheel. He glances over to Jamie, who is sitting in the passenger seat, staring out the window. Lee clears his throat.
LEE
How about some music?
JAMIE
What?
LEE
I was wondering if you wanted to listen to the radio. You can choose the station.
Jamie shakes his head.
LEE
So big math test today.
Jamie still is looking out the window.
JAMIE
Yeah, Algebra.
LEE
Are you ready for your test? Do you want me to quiz you or anything?
Jamie shakes his head.
JAMIE
There really isn’t anything you could quiz me on. I think I will do all right.
(beat)
I want to do well in the class. If I get an A or B in the class and pass the E.O.C. exam, I can take Geometry next year.
LEE
I take it not many eighth graders take Geometry.
Jamie shakes his head.
LEE
You are going to go far in life, Sport.
Jamie looks over at Lee and basks in his approval for a moment, and then turns his attention to the outside world.
There is a long silence between them.
JAMIE
Lee, can I ask you a question?
LEE
Shoot.
(he cringes)
I mean, go ahead.
JAMIE
Do you think Mom would be okay with me taking some college credits while in high school?
LEE
You are still a couple of years off from high school, but sure, I think she would be more than okay with you taking some college courses. She's proud of you and so am I. Not all young men have it as together as you do.
Jamie beams again.
LEE (continued)
Looking to get a head start?
JAMIE
I guess.
There is a silence between them again.
EXT. CAR
The Corvette is stopped at a stop light.
INT. CAR
JAMIE
Another question.
LEE
Okay.
JAMIE
Where did you go to college?
LEE
Well, I finally finished at University of Maryland.
CLOSE ON JAMIE.
Jamie gives Lee a questioning look.
The light turns green and Lee moves the car forward.
LEE (continued)
(explaining)
I was kicked out of a couple schools.
JAMIE
You were expelled?
LEE
I wasn’t expelled; I lost my scholarships.
JAMIE
Why? You’re smart. You know more about history than anyone I know.
LEE
It had nothing to do with smarts.
JAMIE
Then why?
LEE
(he takes a deep breath)
I think mostly I was rebelling.
JAMIE
Rebelling against what?
LEE
(mumbled, under his breath)
I thought I was leading this class C interrogation.
JAMIE
Huh?
LEE
Nothing.
(beat)
Against my uncle, the Colonel.
(another beat)
I read somewhere that all teenagers go through some sort of rebellious stage.
(another beat)
And nothing made my uncle madder than him getting a letter from the university telling him my scholarship had been revoked. He would be furious with me and for a small moment, I thought I had won, but I wasn’t hurting anyone but myself.
JAMIE
What got you to finally buckle down, as you say?
LEE
Boredom, I think. I was actually getting tired of changing schools. Plus, my uncle threatened to take away my trust fund if I did not finish school.
Jamie thinks about it and shakes his head. After a moment, he speaks.
JAMIE
What made you become a spy. . . rather intelligence operative? If you can tell me, that is. I mean, you’ve shot people, right?
Lee looks over at Jamie and then quickly pulls the car over to the side of the road. In the background, we see the junior high school, only a few yards away.
LEE
Yes, I have had to use deadly force, but only when necessary.
(beat)
Do you want to talk about it? It’s all right to be scared.
JAMIE
No. I'm okay. I really should be getting to school. Thanks for the ride, Lee.
LEE
Well, let me pull up to the entrance.
Jamie opens the car door.
JAMIE
This is good. I'll see you after school.
LEE
Well, let me pick you up.
JAMIE
I’d rather-
LEE
I'm picking you up and that is final.
JAMIE
Whatever.
Jamie slams the car door, throws his backpack over his shoulder, and quickly walks toward the school.
CLOSE ON LEE
In frustration, he slams the steering wheel. And we. . .
QUICK CUT
EXT. ARLINGTON HEIGHTS JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL – LATER THAT AFTERNOON
Jamie is waiting outside for Lee, near the benches out front. He hears a cough. Startled he turns around and sees BILLY BARTLETT. Billy is a 15-year-old student who is in the 9th grade. He’s tough looking, with long, thick, unruly hair (think Judd Nelson in The Breakfast Club); he also wears a long, dark-grey coat and is smoking a cigarette.
JAMIE
Don’t let Mrs. Dennis see you smoking. You'll be suspended for sure.
BARTLETT
You are such a goody-two shoes, Jamie King.
However, he throws the cigarette onto the ground and crushes it out with the heel of his boot.
JAMIE
Are you waiting for a ride?
BARTLETT
(he growls)
Yeah, the stepmonster is late again. What about you? Do you need a ride somewhere?
JAMIE
No, I’m good. My stepfather is picking me up.
Billy nods his head. He sniffles and wipes his hand across his face.
JAMIE (continued)
I haven’t seen you around the neighborhood lately.
BARTLETT
We moved in with the ‘new little woman,’ after my mom split. Unfortunately, we still live close enough to attend this dump.
He points to the school building.
JAMIE
Yeah, I was sorry to hear about your mom and dad divorcing. I know it’s tough.
BARTLETT
You don’t know nothing, Punk!
Jamie swallows hard and takes a step back.
BARTLETT(continued)
(he takes a couple of deep breaths)
I’m sorry, Jamie. I’ve had a bad day and I’m taking it out on you.
JAMIE
That’s okay. I’ve had a couple rough days myself.
BARTLETT
Not as bad as the stiff in the parking lot.
Jamie turns ashen.
JAMIE
I thought the police-
(beat)
What are you talking about, Billy?
BARTLETT
The dead guy they found shot behind the school yesterday. I read about it in the papers.
(beat)
Hey, is something wrong? You don’t look so good.
(another beat)
We’re friends. You can talk to me.
Jamie thinks about it for a moment.
JAMIE
Yeah, we’re friends.
(beat)
Do you remember the time when you fell out of the tree house and broke your wrist?
BARTLETT
(sarcastically)
Good times.
(beat)
Hey, did you ever make it all the way to the rank of Raccoon?
JAMIE
No, but Phillip did.
(beat)
Mom got this new job a couple years ago, and-
(another beat)
Well, she got too busy to help me finish. But I developed other interests instead.
Billy rubs his nose and sniffles again.
JAMIE
You should really do something about that cold.
BARTLETT
Huh?
JAMIE
My grandmother boils a grapefruit when she’s sick.
BARTLETT
You’re a regular June and Ward Cleaver family, ain’t ya?
JAMIE
But you must know how to get the good drugs.
BARTLETT
What?!
JAMIE
With your dad being a pharmacist and all.
BARTLETT
Yeah, right.
At that moment, Jamie notices the Corvette turn into the student pickup area. Jamie grabs his backpack and Billy also sees the Corvette.
BARTLETT
Sweet ride! What does your stepfather do exactly?
JAMIE
Umm, he’s a director.
BARTLETT
A filmmaker, huh?
JAMIE
Yeah, he directs films for the government. You know, boring documentaries.
(beat)
Well, that’s my ride. Be seein' ya around.
BARTLETT
Sure. Later.
Lee pulls the Corvette to the curb and Jamie climbs in. The Corvette then pulls away and Billy watches the taillights disappear. He then crosses the street and walks over to a payphone. After putting in a quarter, he makes a call.
BARTLETT (on phone)
Yeah, it’s me. I think I know who witnessed the shooting yesterday. . . No, shouldn't be a problem. No problem at all.
CLOSE ON BILLY; we. . .
END OF ACT TWO
ACT THREE
EXT. IFF – GEORGETOWN ENTRANCE – DAY
Camera ZOOMS up on IFF sign.
INT. Q-BUREAU – DAY
Lee is sitting at his desk in front of the computer. He is obviously frustrated with the machine and he ‘hunts and pecks’ when the telephone suddenly RINGS. Lee answers it.
LEE (on phone)
Stetson.
(beat)
She’s out on location today. Can I take a message?
(another beat)
Yes, I’m their stepfather. . . what?! I’ll be right there.
Lee hangs up the phone and then quickly dials another extension.
LEE (on phone)
Francine. It’s Lee. I need you to get a message to Amanda. It’s urgent. . . yes, I know she’s out in the field doing security interviews. It’s a family emergency. Tell her to meet me up at the junior high. I’ll explain everything when I see her. No, neither one is hurt. . . Yes. Okay. Thanks. Bye.
CLOSE ON LEE
As he hangs up the phone. He’s obviously very worried; we. . .
QUICK CUT
INT. ARLINGTON HEIGHTS JUNIOR HIGH – SCHOOL’S OFFICE – DAY
Lee enters the school office at the same time the junior high principal, PRINCIPAL DENNIS, steps out of her office. Phillip and Jamie are sitting on chairs in front of her office door.
LEE
(to Phillip and Jamie)
Are you boys all right?
(to the principal)
What is the meaning of this? I was told over the phone the boys are being suspended. For what, may I ask?
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
Won’t you step into my office, Mr. Stetson?
LEE
(to Phillip and Jamie)
I’ll be right back.
He steps into the office with Principal Dennis and she shuts the door.
INT. PRINCIPAL OFFICE
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
You are the boys’ stepfather, correct?
LEE
Yes.
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
And Mrs. King, rather, Mrs. Stetson is unavailable?
LEE
She should have received word by now. I expect her shortly. Now, what is the meaning of all this?
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
I hate to be the bearer of bad news; after all, I have known Amanda for a number of years now. I used to be the principal at the middle school and I have known both Phillip and Jamie to be responsible young men, so I am very troubled by this latest accusation.
LEE
What were they accused of?
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
Selling drugs.
LEE
What a crock!
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
I agree; however--
She walks over to her desk and opens the drawer. She pulls a plastic bag out, which she then throws on the desk. Inside the bag is Marijuana, PCP, acid, black beauties, and Quaaludes.
PRINCIPAL DENNIS (continued)
This is what was found in Jamie’s locker this morning. Now, you know, Mr. Stetson, we have a zero tolerance policy for drugs on campus.
LEE
Those aren’t his.
She holds up her hand.
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
I’ve heard it all before. However, they were found in his locker. How do you explain that?
LEE
I can’t.
At that moment, they both hear a commotion outside the office. Principal Dennis opens the door. Two blue-clad OFFICERS have entered the school office.
INT. SCHOOL OFFICE
LEE
What is the meaning of this?
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
Sorry, Mr. Stetson, but I did some checking around and interviewed several students who told me Jamie King has been pushing drugs.
Lee looks over at Jamie, who is totally shaken up by the events of the day. He is on the verge of tears. One officer places handcuffs on Jamie, as the other reads him his rights.
OFFICER
Jamie King, you are under arrest. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you.
Jamie is now crying as he is being led out of the office.
LEE
It’s okay, Son. We’ll get you out of this and see you at the station soon.
Lee turns to the office SECRETARY.
LEE
When Amanda arrives, will you please let her know we are down at the police station, and that I have both boys?
SECRETARY
Of course, Mr. Stetson.
Lee exits with Phillip.
Principal Dennis steps up to the office counter and sighs.
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
I guess it goes to show you just don’t know people as well as you think you do.
SECRETARY
Have you known the family long?
PRINCIPAL DENNIS
Yes, I had both boys at the middle school and I’ve known Amanda for years. She was one of our PTA mothers, always reliable, well, that is, until she became involved with that film company.
SECRETARY
Well, you know those movie types. And I understand those poor boys come from a broken home – that explains it all.
In the background, unseen, but standing outside the school office door is Billy Bartlett.
ON BILLY BARTLETT
He smiles.
CUT TO
INT. POLICE STATION INTERROGATION ROOM – DAY
We find Jamie sitting down on a chair, with Amanda sitting next to him, holding his hand for comfort. Lee is pacing the tiny room.
JAMIE
I swear Mom, Lee, those drugs were not mine.
AMANDA
We know, Sweetheart.
JAMIE
What’s going to happen to me?
Amanda looks over at Lee and he nods his head.
AMANDA
Well, the police are going to come in and ask you a few questions. Don’t be scared, be honest. We’ll be here the whole time.
Lee looks at his watch and shakes his head.
LEE
Damn, what is taking them so long?
At that moment, the door opens and in steps Geraldine Jubal.
LEE
What are you doing here? Since when does the DEA become involved in some two-bit ‘drug dealer?’
JUBAL
This is the DEA's collar. And I do not need to explain my presence to you or anyone else.
AMANDA
Would you two stop the posturing? One of my sons has been arrested for a crime he did NOT commit.
LEE
I’m sorry, you are right, Amanda.
JUBAL
I have to apologize, too. One of my agents is dead and I am looking for answers.
AMANDA
All right then.
JUBAL
What do you think we have here?
LEE
A classic frame-up.
JUBAL
I have to agree with you there, Scarecrow. But why?
LEE
To ruin the boys’ credibility. Who is going to believe the witnesses to a murder who are drug dealers?
JUBAL
Plausible.
AMANDA
Already the fallout has begun. After Jamie was arrested, Phillip was kicked off the soccer team.
LEE
(surprised)
Why?
AMANDA
Guilt by association.
JUBAL
Yes, someone is really going out of their way to make your boys appear less than credible.
Agent Jubal appears to be in deep thought. She looks over at the family and then directly at Jamie.
JUBAL (continued)
Young man, I assume you know nothing about those drugs in your locker.
JAMIE
No, Ma’am.
JUBAL
And you have no additional information regarding the murder of a DEA agent.
JAMIE
I told you everything I know, I swear.
JUBAL
Okay, if you think of anything else, you let your mom or Mr. Stetson. . . rather, your stepdad know.
Jamie nods his head.
JAMIE
Yes, um.
JUBAL
Then you are free to go.
JAMIE
I can go?
JUBAL
Yes.
Jamie stands up and shakes the agent’s hand.
JAMIE
Thank you. Thank you.
Agent Jubal is slightly surprised by his politeness.
JUBAL
You are welcome.
(to Lee and Amanda)
I will also call the school and make sure they reverse the suspensions.
AMANDA
Thank you.
JUBAL
Keep me apprised of anything new.
LEE
Will do.
CUT TO
INT. POLICE CHIEF OFFICE – LATER THAT MORNING
The Police Chief is sitting at his desk. He looks up when he hears a KNOCK.
POLICE CHIEF
Come in.
The door opens and in comes Detective Tyrone.
POLICE CHIEF
What can I do for you?
TYRONE
I understand we have a young, punk drug dealer in holding. Would it be okay if I interview him and see what he knows about the murder of the DEA agent behind the junior high school?
POLICE CHIEF
I would if I could, but the assistant D.A. let him go.
TYRONE
What?
POLICE CHIEF
Not enough evidence to convict.
TYRONE
I thought we had him dead to rights.
POLICE CHIEF
You and me both, but you know the DEA. Now, if there is nothing else, could I have my office back?
TYRONE
Yes, of course.
Tyrone steps out of the office.
INT. POLICE STATION BULLPEN
Tyrone leans against the door. He appears nervous.
CLOSE UP ON TYRONE
TYRONE
Damn, the kid must know someone.
(beat)
Time for something a little more drastic.
CUT TO
EXT. ARLINGTON HEIGHTS JUNIOR HIGH – FRONT ENTRANCE – FOLLOWING AFTERNOON
The Wagoneer pulls into the circular drive in front of the junior high school. Phillip and Jamie, who have been waiting for Lee, climb into the Jeep.
EXT. JEEP – DAY
As it passes on a street in the Arlington neighborhood.
LEE (V.O.)
Sorry, I’m running late. The deposition ran longer than we thought.
PHILLIP (V.O.)
Where’s Mom?
LEE (V.O.)
Your mother was just called in when I left to come get you.
INT. JEEP – TRAVELING – DAY
Lee is behind the wheel, Phillip riding shotgun and Jamie is in the middle seat in the back.
JAMIE
That’s okay. It’s just us guys. Can we stop at Marvelous Marvin’s?
PHILLIP
Yeah, I’m starving.
LEE
I don’t know. I don’t want you to ruin your dinner.
PHILLIP
Come on, Lee. We’re growing teenagers.
JAMIE
We will have plenty of room in our tummies by the time dinner comes around.
PHILLIP
Yeah! And you said Mom was running late. We’ll waste away before dinner is ready.
LEE
Okay. Okay. Marvelous Marvin’s it is.
Phillip and Jamie ad-lib “all right, yeah.”
EXT. JEEP
The Wagoneer is traveling down the road. We see a non-descript sedan pull up behind the Jeep and start to follow them.
ON SEDAN
Tyrone is driving.
INT. JEEP
Lee glances at the side-view mirror.
LEE’S POV
INSERT
SHOT of the SEDAN from the MIRROR
RETURN TO SCENE
He then turns his attention back to the road.
INT. JEEP – CONTINUOUS ACTION
Lee floors it, running through a very solid yellow light a second before it turns red.
JAMIE
Whoa!
Lee glances into the rear-view window and notices the sedan did not stop and is now giving chase.
LEE
Hang on, boys.
EXT. JEEP – RUNNING – SAME TIME
OVER the JEEP SCREAMING down the street.
PHILLIP (V.O.)
Lee, what’s going on?
Lee flies around the corner.
INT. JEEP
The chase continues.
LEE’S POV from the side-view mirror he sees a GUN aimed at them.
INT. JEEP – ON LEE
LEE
Everybody get down!
PHILLIP
What?!
With his free hand, Lee reaches across the seat and pushes Phillip down.
At that moment, the glass in the back window shatters.
Jamie screams.
ON SEDAN Tyrone continues to give chase and aims his gun outside the driver’s-side window.
ON GUN
INT. JEEP – ON LEE
We hear a GUN being fired. Then Lee slumps forward.
PHILLIP
Lee? Lee!
Phillip grabs the wheel.
The chase ends as the JEEP SMACKS into a parked car in front of IFF. Witnesses rush to the scene. The sedan chasing them slows down momentarily, then passes the scene; we. . .
END OF ACT THREE
ACT FOUR
INT. AGENCY – Q-BUREAU – DAY
Jamie is sitting on the sofa inside the Q-Bureau, while Phillip paces the room. A moment later, the door opens and in walks DR. KELFORD. Phillip and Jamie appear startled.
DR. KELFORD
Relax, boys. I just came upstairs to give you an update on your stepfather.
Phillip sits down next to Jamie.
DR. KELFORD
He’s fine. The bullet just grazed him and he needed a few stitches, but he has a hard head. He’s always did have a rather thick skull.
PHILLIP
But all that blood. . .
DR. KELFORD
Well, that is because the head has many blood vessels, so head wounds naturally bleed more.
JAMIE
Where’s our Mother?
DR. KELFORD
She’s with him, making sure he stays put.
A second later, the door opens again, and in walks Lee with Amanda sort of supporting him. Lee has a bandage on his head.
LEE
Not anymore.
PHILLIP/JAMIE
(in unison)
Lee!!
They both get up and run to him, giving him a hug.
Dr. Kelford looks at Amanda. She shrugs, as if to say, “I tried.” Kelford shakes his head and leaves.
Lee pushes the boys away from him, and examines them for injuries.
LEE
Are you guys alright?
PHILLIP
Sorry about the damage I did to the Jeep.
LEE
The car can be fixed. I’m sure Leatherneck is assessing the damage now. You two, on the other hand-
Lee chokes up on his words.
Amanda puts her arms around both boys.
AMANDA
I’m glad all three of my men are okay.
JAMIE
Yeah, but you should have seen what Phillip did to that parked car.
PHILLIP
Shut up, Dweeb-o-rama.
Jamie shoves Phillip.
LEE
Hey, you two, knock it off! It’s okay, they belong to the Agency. They’re decoy cars. No harm done.
JAMIE
Are you really okay, Lee?
LEE
Really, just a scratch. Been told a time or two, I have a thick skull. Other than a slight headache, I’m ready to head home. What about you?
PHILLIP/JAMIE
(in unison)
Yeah!
Billy enters the room.
BILLY
I am afraid the homecoming is going to have to wait, Scarecrow.
AMANDA
Sir?
BILLY
Are you two working on anything that would warrant this kind of retaliation?
LEE
No.
Billy shakes his head.
BILLY
Until we know who made the run on you, I would feel a lot more comfortable if you and the family were placed in a safe house.
LEE
Bil-ly.
Billy holds up his hand.
LEE (continued)
I can take care of myself.
BILLY
You have a family to think about now. I’ve already made arrangements for the Cumberland. Now that’s an order.
Billy leaves.
Lee looks at the boys. Their eyes are filled with confusion and concern.
AMANDA
It’s okay, Fellas. It’s only a precaution. And you’ll love the Cumberland. She’s a beautiful old hotel.
CLOSE ON THE BOYS
LEE
It will be fun. I think there’s even cable TV and we can stay up late and watch movies and eat popcorn.
AMANDA
Doesn’t that sound like fun?
JAMIE
What about school?
PHILLIP
What about my social life?
AMANDA
It’s only temporary. A day or two at the most.
LEE
Sure. The Agency will find this bast- I mean, find the jerk responsible and everything will be fine. You’ll see.
JAMIE
What about Grandma?
AMANDA
She’ll come with us, too.
Phillip and Jamie look at each other and shrug.
LEE
Fella’s, can you go downstairs and wait for us? I want to speak to your mother for a moment.
PHILLIP
Okay.
Phillip and Jamie leave.
LEE
Amanda, why don’t you take the boys to the safe house? I’m staying at the office. I’ll call you later.
AMANDA
I know what you are doing. You plan to go after this guy yourself.
LEE
I want this person, whoever he is. Damn it, Amanda, I had the boys with me!
AMANDA
I know.
LEE
Take the boys and your Mother and stay there.
AMANDA
No.
LEE
Yes.
AMANDA
No.
LEE
A-man-da.
AMANDA
No, Lee. You are part of this family now and we are going to stay together as a family.
LEE
If anything happened to you or one of the boys. . .
Amanda places her fingers over Lee’s lips, shushing him.
AMANDA
I know.
QUICK CUT
EXT. CUMBERLAND HOTEL – ESTABLISHING – MORNING
FULL SHOT
The Cumberland is a large impressive older hotel with ivy growing on the exterior walls.
INT. HOTEL SUITE – DAY
DOTTY WEST is already up and dressed and sitting in a recliner, reading a book when she hears a light KNOCK on the door. She walks over to the door, but does not open it.
DOTTY
Yes.
MAN’S VOICE (O.C.)
(filtered)
You have a visitor.
DOTTY
Oh. Well. I mean. . . Is it safe?
MAN’S VOICE (O.C.)
(filtered)
He’s clean.
DOTTY
Just a moment.
She slides the security door latch and opens the door. We see an AGENT guarding the door and T. PERCIVAL AQUINAS standing in the hallway, carrying three or four paper bags.
T.P.
Bonjour. T. Percival Aquinas at your service. You must be the lovely Dotty West. Your daughter talks about you often.
DOTTY
Well, aren’t you the charmer? I‘m sorry to say that Amanda has never mentioned you. But then again she rarely tells me anything about her work.
He holds up the bags he is carrying.
T.P.
Lee called me last night and asked me to bring you some groceries.
DOTTY
Oh.
T.P.
May I come in?
DOTTY
Yes, of course. Won’t you come in?
(beat)
Everyone is still asleep.
T.P.
Well, why don’t I whip together some breakfast? That should rouse the sleepy bunch.
DOTTY
You don’t need to do that.
T.P.
It would be my pleasure.
The two of them walk toward the kitchenette.
INT. KITCHENETTE – DAY
We see a small kitchen with a small nook for eating.
T.P.
It’s nice that the larger suites have these kitchenettes available for the guests.
He begins to unload the groceries and places them on the counter.
DOTTY
Can I help with something?
T.P.
Yes, I could use some help slicing these strawberries.
He hands her a small cutting board, a knife, and a package of strawberries. Dotty picks off the green tops and then slices the fresh fruit.
DOTTY
Have you known Lee and Amanda long?
T.P. is mixing up some batter.
T.P.
I have known Lee for several years now, back to when he was a freshman agent.
DOTTY
You aren’t. . . well, I mean, don’t take this the wrong way, but you aren’t one of his-
(almost whispers)
Snitches.
T.P.
Heavens, no.
(beat)
Although, I do help out Lee and Amanda, from time to time. I’m an antiquarian and I have helped them with research. I’m more of an advisor.
DOTTY
You advise them about antiques?
T.P.
No, an antiquarian. I mostly focus on historical archives.
DOTTY
Ah, and where did you learn to cook?
T.P.
I didn’t bum the world like Lee did, but from time to time in my research I will find a new recipe and try it, sometimes shake things up a little and make it my own.
DOTTY
And what is on the menu today?
T.P.
I thought we could do strawberry crêpes.
Dotty stands next to him.
DOTTY
Ohhh, I love crêpes.
T.P.
The trick to making perfect crêpes is to use a stainless steel pan, because the pan needs to heat evenly.
He takes out a steel pan from one of the cupboards.
T.P. (continued)
Also, don’t flip it too early. Wait until the surface of your crêpe is no longer shiny and the edges are starting to brown before you try and flip it.
He demonstrates for her, finishes preparing one, puts it on a plate and hands the plate to her.
Dotty takes a bite.
DOTTY
Mm-hm. Heavenly.
Amanda enters the room. She is dressed in a nightgown and robe.
T.P.
Good morning, Mrs. Stetson.
AMANDA
Morning, T.P. I see you have met my mother.
T.P.
Yes, and she has been delightful company.
(beat)
Where’s the rest of the family?
AMANDA
They should be out soon.
T.P.
Sit down, Mrs. Stetson.
T.P. prepares another plate and delivers it to Amanda. Amanda takes a bite.
AMANDA
Oh, wow. So light and fluffy.
At that moment, Lee and the boys arrive. Lee is dressed in a sweatshirt and jeans. The boys are still in their pajamas.
T.P.
Morning, Lee, can I interest you in a crêpe?
AMANDA
Just coffee for him, T.P.
LEE
I would love a crêpe or two.
Amanda shoots him a look.
LEE
What?
QUICK CUT
INT. KITCHENETTE – SEVERAL MINUTES LATER
New scene – breakfast is now over, dirty dishes cover the table. Amanda, Dotty, Jamie, and Phillip are sitting around the table. Lee is leaning against the wall, with his arms crossed. T.P. is standing behind the table, telling stories.
T.P.
More Turkish coffee, Leezo?
LEE
Sure.
T.P. pours more coffee into Lee’s mug.
JAMIE
You sure know a lot about everything Mr. Aquinas.
PHILLIP
Yeah, and your stories are more entertaining than Lee's.
LEE
Hey!
JAMIE
Yes, you are quite the storyteller. I bet your kids love the stories you tell. How many kids do you have?
The room grows silent.
JAMIE (continued)
I am sorry, did I say something wrong?
T.P.
(clears his throat)
No, it’s okay, Jamie. You said nothing wrong.
(beat)
I had a son.
(another beat)
He was killed in a drive-by shooting a few years back.
DOTTY
Oh, my. How awful.
PHILLIP
Was it gang related?
AMANDA
Hush, Phillip.
T.P.
No, Amanda, it’s all right. Actually, it’s somehow comforting when I talk about them.
(beat)
It was one of those wrong place, wrong time situations. My wife and six-year-old son were caught in the crossfire over a turf war with drug kingpins.
JAMIE
(quiet voice)
I saw someone gunned down. It’s pretty gruesome.
T.P.
I know you did.
AMANDA
I just wish there was more we could do to stop the drug trafficking and those who push drugs on children. Being a mother of teenage boys this scares me to death.
LEE
I’m afraid the war on drugs, although it's the First Lady’s pet project, and even though it includes the popular catchphrase “Just say no,” is an un-winnable war.
AMANDA
Lee-
LEE
No, Amanda. I’m being a realist.
PHILLIP
We see it all the time.
AMANDA
You do?
PHILLIP
Well, yeah, sure. We all know what goes on behind the football bleachers. They aren’t just smoking cigarettes.
JAMIE
"Come on. It’s just a little joint. It’s not addictive or anything."
AMANDA
Is that what you are hearing at school?
JAMIE
No, not really. That is what health teachers tell us we'll hear from our peers, but no one has ever approached me.
AMANDA
What about you, Phillip?
PHILLIP
Well, sure.
AMANDA
Well, sure, what?
PHILLIP
Junior high kids are doing it, but I might not be as smart as Brainiac here, but I’m not stupid enough to try it.
AMANDA
Maybe we should think about changing schools.
PHILLIP
No, Mom. We like Arlington Heights.
JAMIE
What about my Honors classes?
PHILLIP
What about our friends?
JAMIE
Yeah, Phillip would die if he couldn’t make googly eyes at Patty Newton in sixth period.
Phillip shoves Jamie.
PHILLIP
Shut up!
Jamie shoves back.
LEE
Boys!
PHILLIP
Mom, I worked so hard to make the soccer team, please don’t make us change schools.
LEE
All schools have problems, Amanda.
AMANDA
I know, but thirteen year olds should not be doing drugs. Nor witnessing drug-related violence.
LEE
Yes, but running away from the problem is not the solution. You taught me that.
The room is silent as everyone looks at Amanda. She nods her head. The family cheers.
JAMIE
Lee?
LEE
Hmm?
JAMIE
Didn’t the DEA keep the shooting of the DEA agent out of the news?
LEE
Yes, Son.
CLOSE ON JAMIE – see the wheels turning.
AMANDA
What is it, Jamie?
JAMIE
I’m just remembering something Billy Bartlett said to me.
AMANDA
Sweet little Billy Bartlett? I haven’t seen him in years.
PHILLIP
He’s changed Mom.
JAMIE
Yeah, really changed. Always wearing black, acts tough, always smoking.
DOTTY
You know, broken home.
AMANDA
Mother, I will not hear those generalities. This family unit comes from a broken home, too.
DOTTY
I’m sorry, Amanda. You are correct.
T.P.
Stereotypes have been around for centuries. The first reference to "stereotype" in its modern use in English, outside of printing, was in 1850, in a noun, meaning "image perpetuated without change.”
DOTTY
Like all spies are suave and debonair.
LEE
Hey!
DOTTY
Present company excluded, of course.
AMANDA
Or all Hollywood types-
(beat)
Wait a minute! With all the excitement, I forgot to mention, the day before Jamie was arrested, someone called the Agency to check on our film covers.
LEE
What? Did the switchboard say who was asking?
AMANDA
No, they were not on the phone long enough for a trace.
LEE
Why would someone be checking into our documentary film covers?
Amanda shrugs her shoulders.
AMANDA
You, yourself, said it Lee, about the boys’ credibility. If we look at the stereotypes of filmmakers, most would assume we are not the wholesome family we project to the public.
LEE
But we are.
AMANDA
I know we are, and you know we are, but think about those on the outside.
LEE
But that’s just wrong.
DOTTY
You know what they say about assuming?
JAMIE
And Billy asked about what you did for a living after seeing the ‘vette, and that was after he asked about the shooting at the junior high.
LEE
How did he know about it?
JAMIE
He said he read about it in the newspaper.
AMANDA
That is not possible; the DEA had a media blackout on the incident.
Jamie shrugs.
T.P.
I think your spy-in-training is onto something.
Jamie beams.
JAMIE
I am?
LEE
He’s got good instincts, just like his mother.
Amanda puts her arm around Jamie.
LEE (continued)
Then this was not a run on the Agency, like we thought. It was a run on the family, specifically, the boys. If the boys are not around to testify, then this drug dealer would be free to continue to push drugs and would get away with murder.
DOTTY
What now, Lee?
LEE
We call the DEA, have them bring in Billy Bartlett and find out what he knows. Hopefully, he can tell them who is supplying Arlington Heights Junior High.
CUT TO
INT. CUMBERLAND HOTEL – SITTING ROOM - SEVERAL MINUTES LATER
Lee is on the phone. Amanda is sitting on the sofa, half listening to the conversation. Lee hangs up and sits on the arm of the sofa.
LEE
That was Billy.
Amanda nods her head.
LEE (continued)
He feels it would be for the best if we all stayed here for another night.
AMANDA
Did the DEA bring Billy in for questioning?
LEE
Yes, and he’s singing like a canary.
AMANDA
Do we know who was supplying the drugs?
LEE
Would you believe it was a crooked narcotics cop?
Amanda scowls.
LEE (continued)
The DEA has nets out to catch this guy. They’ll get him and we can put this all behind us.
AMANDA
Lee-
LEE
I know, all it takes is one bad apple.
(beat)
Billy needs me to come into the office for a couple hours, but I think I will swing by the house first to make sure everything is okay there.
AMANDA
Be safe.
(beat)
Love you.
He leans over and kisses her.
LEE
Love you, too.
In the background, hidden in the shadows is Jamie, who has overheard the conversation.
QUICK CUT
EXT. LEE AND AMANDA’S HOUSE – DAY
Agency sedan parked in the street in front of the house on Maplewood. Lee walks down the walkway and through the front door.
INT. ENTRYWAY – DAY
Lee comes down the steps into the entryway. Startled when he hears a noise, he reaches for his gun.
CAMERA PANS FOLLOWING HIM
Lee creeps into the living room.
INT. LIVING ROOM – DAY
Puzzled, he sees the television on. We hear STATIC from the television.
ANGLE ON TELEVISION SCENE
The screen is snowy.
Lee shakes his head and mumbles “boys” under his breath, thinking one of the boys forgot to turn it off. He bends down to turn off the set. Behind him, a gloved hand reaches INTO FRAME belts him over the head with a gun. Lee crumples to the floor. His gun slides across the carpet and behind the sofa.
ON GUN
and we. . .
QUICK CUT
INT. LIVING ROOM – A FEW MOMENTS LATER
LEE’S POV
Someone throws water on Lee’s face. He wakes up. It takes a moment for him to focus.
CAMERA WIDENS TO REVEAL
Lee with his hands handcuffed behind his back, sitting on the sofa. Tyrone is standing over him. Seeing Lee is awake, he keeps his gun trained on him, but sits in one of the wingback chairs opposite the sofa.
LEE
Who are you? What do you want?
TYRONE
The million-dollar question, isn’t it, Mr. Stetson, or should I call you Scarecrow?
LEE
I don’t know what you are talking about.
TYRONE
I checked out your cover story the other day, but something just did not seem to track. Call it a gut instinct, the same instinct I had with that DEA agent. I knew he couldn’t be a soccer coach, he knew nothing about the game. And you just don’t come across as a film director.
(beat)
So I called in some favors and found out you two were not who you claim to be, but instead another one of these damn Feds trying to bust up my gig.
(another beat)
Well, I just can’t let that happen, you see.
Lee remains quiet.
ON LEE'S RESTRAINED HANDS
We see he has a half rake in his hand and is working the lock.
LEE
What do you plan to do with me?
TYRONE
Why, kill you, of course, but not here.
Tyrone stands up and walks over to the fireplace mantel.
TYRONE (continued)
Some place less messy and some place where less questions will be asked.
From the corner of his eye, Lee sees Jamie crouched in the kitchen, hidden behind the island. Lee shakes his head, “no.”
TYRONE (continued)
The real question is what to do with your family and your meddling sons?
LEE
(angry)
You leave them alone!
TYRONE
Temper. Temper.
(beat)
A gang-related hit should work nicely. Neighbors will just think it was a drug deal gone wrong. Just another senseless death in Washington, D.C. Many won’t even bat an eyelash over it. After all, I’ve already sown the seeds of doubt, by planting those drugs in your son’s locker.
Suddenly, Tyrone is startled by a sound he hears coming from the kitchen. It is enough of a distraction for Lee to get up off the sofa and plow into Tyrone. They struggle, Tyrone’s gun dangerously close to going off. Lee manages to get in a couple good punches, while Jamie runs behind the sofa and grabs Lee’s Beretta.
ANGLE ON JAMIE
He AIMS the gun at the two men.
Lee knocks Tyrone out with one last good punch.
LEE
(to Jamie)
It’s over. Give me the gun.
Jamie has the gun trained on Tyrone. His hands shaking. Tyrone is beginning to wake up.
JAMIE
(angry)
You were a police officer! You were supposed to uphold the law!
Lee has come up behind Jamie.
LEE
He will pay for his crimes.
(beat)
Now, hand me the gun, Son.
Jamie looks at Tyrone and then back to Lee. Cautiously, he hands over the gun to Lee. Lee takes it and places it back in his holster. He then holds out his arms and Jamie accepts the invite, as we hear SIRENS in the background.
ON LEE AND JAMIE. . . FREEZE FRAME
END OF ACT FOUR
TAG
EXT. ARLINGTON HEIGHTS JUNIOR HIGH – SOCCER FIELD – SATURDAY AFTERNOON
There is a soccer game going on the field at the junior high school. Parents are in the sideline stands cheering. Lee and Amanda are there watching the game, clapping and cheering. Jamie is off to the side taking pictures.
ANGLE ON SCOREBOARD
The scoreboard reads Home 3, Visitors 2. The clock is rapidly counting down and time is running out. There is less than a minute left in the game.
CLOSE ON PHILLIP, who is in the goalie's position. He is dressed in the school’s sports uniform and wearing a long-sleeved jersey and goalkeeper gloves. He points his arms toward the ground with his hands open.
Phillip is yelling commands to his defenders.
The other team has the ball and they are making a final play for the game. A midfielder passes to the striker.
The striker approaches fast, he then kicks the ball toward the right far corner of the goal.
At the last second, Phillip lunges toward the ball and catches it, holding it against his chest.
We hear the BUZZER announcing the end of game. All the Arlington Heights Junior High players enthusiastically embrace Phillip after his save and hold up ‘we’re number one’ signs with their fingers. The other team appears dejected.
CLOSE ON PHILLIP who is beaming with pride as he gives a thumbs up to Lee and Amanda and Jamie, who is now standing next to them. Lee puts his arms around both Amanda and Jamie and we. . . FREEZE FRAME.
FADE OUT:
THE END