I am consumed by self-criticism. Please stroke my fragile ego.
COPYRIGHT Ó 2004 Dylan Carreiro
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Rebel High
Season 1
Episode 9: "Falling Into You"
FADE IN:
INT. CASEY'S ROOM – AFTERNOON
Casey walks into her room and closes the door. She walks over and falls backwards in a sprawl on her bed. A few moments later the phone rings. She looks at it, debating whether or not to sit up and grab it, then shakes her head and lets it ring. Her machine picks up.
MIA
(on machine)
Hey, Casey. It's me.
Casey lays there and listens.
MIA
Look...
(sighs)
I've spent the last 24 hours beating
myself up over what happened, and I've
come to a revelation and I just had to
tell you. I.. I'm not even going to
bother feeling guilty about what
happened anymore because I love you...
and I wanted it to happen.
Mia pauses.
MIA
(quietly)
I love you. Please call me. We need to
talk.
The machine beeps as she hangs up. Casey sighs.
CASEY
(wryly)
Oh, feel free to make things even more
complicated. I like a challenge.
She closes her eyes and rubs her temples for a few minutes. Jamie's voice echoes in her head.
JAMIE(VO)
O that deceit should dwell in such a
gorgeous palace.
Her eyes open back up.
CASEY
Oh my God I'm going to go insane from
the guilt.
She rolls over and flicks on her radio to drown out her own thoughts, which plays Muse's "Sing For Absolution".
CUT TO:
INT. MIA'S ROOM – CONTINUOUS
Mia's radio is playing the same song. She's sitting crossed legged on her bed, with the phone in her lap, waiting for Casey to call. After a minute or so, she sighs and puts the phone on her nightstand, flopping down onto her stomach and hugging her pillow.
CUT TO:
INT. CASEY'S ROOM – CONTINUOUS
Casey grabs the phone off the nightstand and chews on her bottom lip. After a moments hesitation, she dials a number.
CUT TO:
INT. JAMIE'S ROOM – CONTINUOUS
Jamie is sitting at the computer, playing a game of online pool. Her phone rings and she picks it up.
JAMIE
Hello?
CASEY
(on phone)
Hey.
JAMIE
(smiles)
Hey, you. What are you up to? Aside
from listening to Muse, apparently.
CUT TO:
INT. CASEY'S ROOM – CONTINUOUS
Casey turns down the radio a little bit.
CASEY
Nothing, really. I'm pretty bored.
What about you?
JAMIE
(on phone)
I'm playing pool.
CASEY
(confused)
At home?
JAMIE
Online.
CASEY
You can do that?
JAMIE
(laughs)
Yeah. Play with me.
Casey gets up and plops down into her desk chair.
CASEY
Where do I go?
JAMIE
Yahoo, then click on games.
Casey scans her screen.
CASEY
(to herself)
Where are you, you bastard?
JAMIE
It's a little link under the search
box.
CASEY
Ah.
She clicks on it forcefully and grins.
CASEY
Take that.
Jamie chuckles.
JAMIE
Are you still coming tomorrow?
CASEY
To your church?
JAMIE
Yeah.
CASEY
Of course. What time do I need to be
there?
JAMIE
It's starts at 10:30, so fifteen
minutes before, I guess.
Casey looks at the list of different pool rooms.
CASEY
Which room are you in?
JAMIE
Royal Orleans.
CASEY
Ah, a girl after my own heart.
JAMIE
I'm holding a private table. It's
number 26.
CASEY
Ok.
She finds the table and double clicks on it, and waits for the applet to load.
JAMIE
We're actually not going to be
watching the service at church.
CASEY
What are we going to be doing, then?
Getting frisky in the confessional?
Two birds with one stone.
JAMIE
(laughs)
You wish.
CASEY
(pouts)
You don't want to be frisky with me?
JAMIE
(pauses)
Actually, there's no confessional.
A wide grin breaks out on Casey's face as she realizes Jamie's meaning. The virtual pool table has loaded and she lines up her cue and breaks.
CASEY
(teases)
Well, where can we be our frisky
selves?
JAMIE
I don't think we'll have much time to
ourselves to be frisky. We're going to
be babysitting the young kids during
the service.
Jamie takes her shot and sinks a stripe.
CASEY
Really?
JAMIE
Yeah. That's not a problem, is it?
CASEY
Not at all.
Casey gets a turn and sinks a solid. She takes another shot and sinks another one.
JAMIE
Damn it.
Casey grins.
CASEY
I bet you 5 bucks I'll beat you.
JAMIE
You're on.
Casey's streak continues with another two balls.
CASEY
You know, we should actually do this.
Go play pool.
JAMIE
That'd be fun. I think there's this
pool place on Carson.
Jamie finally gets another turn and goes on a streak of her own. Casey winces as Jamie sinks two balls on the same shot.
JAMIE
Ha!
CASEY
Crap.
Jamie keeps going until she finishes off by sinking the 8 ball.
CASEY
That's so unfair.
JAMIE
Play by the rules, honey.
CASEY
(smiles)
I suppose you'll want your 5 dollars
tomorrow, then.
JAMIE
(teases)
No. I'll settle for a kiss.
CASEY
(narrows her eyes)
Are you implying that my kiss is only
worth 5 dollars or less?
JAMIE
Does that mean I don't get any?
CASEY
No, you can have all the kisses you
want, but I'm wounded.
JAMIE
Your kiss is worth a thousand bucks.
CASEY
I was hoping for a million.
JAMIE
(laughs)
Ok, a million.
CUT TO:
INT. JAMIE'S ROOM – CONTINUOUS
Someone knocks on Jamie's door.
JAMIE
Yeah?
Alice bursts in.
ALICE
Dad says dinner is ready.
JAMIE
Ok.
Alice still stands there.
JAMIE
(smiles)
Would you mind letting me finish my
conversation?
ALICE
Dad says it's ready now.
JAMIE
Just give me a minute.
ALICE
But dad said...
Jamie reaches over to tickle her but Alice shrieks and bolts out of the room.
JAMIE
(on phone)
Sorry about that.
CUT TO:
INT. CASEY'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
CASEY
(laughs)
It's alright. You have to go?
JAMIE
Yeah.
CASEY
Ok. If you decide to hop back online,
I'll still be in the pool room,
lurking about and virtually hustling
people.
JAMIE
Alright. I might be up for beating you
again before I go to bed.
CASEY
(laughs)
Oh, it's like that then.
JAMIE
(grins)
Yeah.
CASEY
We'll see. Night.
JAMIE
Night.
Casey hangs up to puts the phone down on her desk.
CASEY
(smiles)
She called me 'honey'. I think I like
that.
Feeling better now than when she got home, she proceeds to scan the list of open pool tables to select her first victim.
CUT TO:
INT. CASEY'S BATHROOM – MORNING
Freshly showered and dressed, Casey finishes combing out her hair and regards herself in the mirror rather sternly.
CASEY
Casey Lee Vanderbilt Whitney Farrell,
to make up for your dumb ass
transgressions, you shall be the best
damn girlfriend who ever walked the
face of the Earth. You will be kind,
considerate, attentive, cuddly,
supportive and sweet. You will kiss
her father's ass without looking like
it, in addition to doing everything in
your power to make her baby sister
like you. To top it all off, you will
be your most charming with everyone
else you meet today and don't forget
to hug Andrea for being a good friend.
Also, memo to self: find Andrea a
suitable girlfriend.. or boyfriend...
but preferably girlfriend, because
straight couples are gross. Today...
everything will be perfect, got me?
Satisfied with her talking-to, she nods and heads out.
CUT TO:
EXT. UU CHURCH PARKING LOT – LATER
Casey pulls up in the parking lot with the top down. Andrea comes out and meets her as she gets out.
CASEY
(smiles)
Hey. Is Jamie here, yet?
ANDREA
Nope. You're stuck with me for another
15 minutes or so.
CASEY
I see you waited just for my arrival.
I'm touched.
ANDREA
Actually, I was waiting for Clark. I
just happened to see you.
CASEY
(grins)
Fine then. If that's the way you wanna
be.
ANDREA
(grins)
I do.
They chuckle and lean back against the side of Casey's car.
ANDREA
Did you talk to Jamie?
Casey folds her arms and looks down at her shoes.
CASEY
Yeah, I did.
ANDREA
Obviously, things didn't go too badly.
(pauses)
Right?
Casey looks up at her.
CASEY
Yeah, things are.. things are ok.
ANDREA
Good. I would've been sad if you guys
had broken up.
CASEY
(quietly)
Me too.
ANDREA
How'd she take it?
CASEY
Well, not well. I mean, who would? But
we just.. talked... it out.
(shrugs)
You know.
Andrea studies her and nods.
CUT TO:
INT. JAMIE'S LIVING ROOM – MORNING
Jamie paces impatiently in the living room as Clark is sprawled on the couch.
JAMIE
We're gonna be late.
CLARK
I doubt she's even there by now,
Jamie. Chill.
JAMIE
But what if she is?
CLARK
Then I'm sure she'll wait. What, do
you think if you're five minutes late,
she'll take off on you?
Jamie slows down and stops pacing.
JAMIE
No.
CLARK
Then calm down.
He pats the couch next to him and she plops down on the spot.
CLARK
What's up, James?
JAMIE
I don't know. I guess I'm nervous
about like, dad and Casey meeting.
Well, not really meeting, 'cause
technically they already met, but that
was just for a minute and it's going
to be different today... do you know
what I mean?
CLARK
Yup.
JAMIE
(chuckles)
To tell you the truth, I think I'm
more worried about Alice meeting
Casey.
CLARK
(laughs)
Really?
JAMIE
Yeah. I just know she's going to give
Casey one of her patented 'I am a
crazy child' looks and Casey will run
off screaming, never to return.
CLARK
Nah. She might be frightened at Alice,
but I don't think she'll let it deter
her.
Alice comes bursting out a t-shirt, jeans, hat, and a pair of cowboy boots that are a couple sizes too big.
CLARK
What are you wearing?
ALICE
I'm a cowgirl.
JAMIE
It's not Halloween.
Alice gives her a look.
ALICE
I know that.
Jamie and Clark share a glance.
JAMIE
(smiles)
Oh, and the fun begins.
Tyler comes out.
TYLER
(smiles)
Let's go.
CUT TO:
EXT. UU CHURCH – LATER
Jamie, Tyler and Clark are rounding the corner towards the parking lot and the entrance. Alice is getting a piggyback ride on Clark's back. Clark spots Casey and Andrea sitting on the hood of Casey's car.
CLARK
Hey, there's your girlfriend, Jamie.
Tyler sees them as well.
TYLER
(smiles)
Alright, where's my shotgun?
JAMIE
Daddy!
Alice pokes her head over Clark's shoulder.
ALICE
You have a girlfriend?
CLARK
She's only had one for over two
months, now, dorkface.
Alice kicks him with her heel and he winces.
TYLER
Alice, behave.
JAMIE
(pleads)
God, Alice, please behave.
ALICE
(happily)
Ok.
CUT TO:
EXT. UU CHURCH PARKING LOT – CONTINUOUS
Andrea and Casey spot the group approaching them and hop down off the car.
ANDREA
Hey, you guys.
CLARK
Hey.
TYLER
Good morning, Andrea.
ANDREA
Good morning.
Andrea nudges Clark.
ANDREA
Julian McHale dyed his hair pink.
CLARK
(laughs)
Oh my God, show me. I'll see you guys
inside.
Clark lets Alice hop down onto the ground and he and Andrea head off towards the church at a quick pace. Jamie grins at Casey and gives her a hug.
JAMIE
(smiles)
Dad, you know Casey.
Casey shakes his hand firmly and clears her throat.
CASEY
How are you this morning?
TYLER
I am doing great, Casey. And you?
CASEY
(smiles)
Likewise.
JAMIE
And this little terror..
She gestures to Alice and takes a deep breath.
JAMIE
..is Alice.
ALICE
(defiantly)
I'm a cowgirl.
Alice stands with her arms crossed, and juts her 7-year-old jaw up at Casey, daring her to question her. Jamie bites her lip as she watches Alice's mini-challenge. Casey hides a grin and crouches down to Alice's eye-level.
CASEY
Are you?
ALICE
Yes.
CASEY
I was a cowgirl.
ALICE
Really?
CASEY
Well, I was for Halloween. Does that
count?
ALICE
(frowns)
Not really. You need to at least know
how to ride a horse.
CASEY
(grins)
Oh, but I do. At my old school, we had
horse stables and I rode horses almost
everyday during lunch.
Alice's eyes light up.
ALICE
That's so cool. And I was a cowgirl
for Halloween, too. I wore this.
CASEY
It looks nice.
She touches the brim of Alice's hat and Jamie smiles, relieved that Alice likes Casey. She looks over at Tyler, who watches approvingly.
CASEY
I have the same hat, but it's black.
Jamie, Casey, Tyler and Alice start to head towards the church. Jamie reaches out and laces her fingers with Casey's as they walk.
TYLER
Is that your car, Casey, or your dad's
car?
She looks back at it and blushes slightly.
CASEY
Oh, it's mine. It was kind of a..
present.. of sorts.
ALICE
I've never rode in a convertible
before.
JAMIE
Ridden.
ALICE
Huh?
JAMIE
It's 'I've never ridden'.
ALICE
If you say so.
Casey chuckles.
CASEY
Well.. if it's alright with your dad,
of course... I could take you for a
ride in it sometime. Maybe today, if
we get a chance.
ALICE
Oh, can I, dad? Please?
She starts hopping up and down, and Tyler gently places a hand on her shoulder to stop her.
TYLER
(smiles)
I'll think about it.
They approach the entrance and Jamie starts to pull Casey around the side of the building.
TYLER
Where are you going?
JAMIE
I told Laura we'd help her with the
daycare.
He looks between them.
TYLER
Oh.. alright.
(nods)
See you after the service sweetie.
ALICE
Bye, Casey.
CASEY
(laughs)
Bye, Alice.
They disappear inside and Jamie tugs on Casey's arm.
JAMIE
(smiles)
C'mon.
CASEY
So impatient.
JAMIE
Don't make me hurt you.
CASEY
(grins)
I think I'd like it.
Jamie gives her a wrinkle-nosed grin.
JAMIE
Yeah, I just bet you would.
They laugh and continue on their way.
CASEY
So, uh, tell me something.
JAMIE
What?
CASEY
Is this..
She holds up their joined hands.
CASEY
...cool? I mean.. here..
JAMIE
(nods)
Totally. We're all a very liberal
bunch. Our minister performs
'commitment ceremonies' for gay
couples.
She does the little quotation marks with her hands.
CASEY
(amused)
Why do you say it like that?
JAMIE
Because I hate that term. When I was
little, I did not dream about my big
white commitment ceremony.
She wrinkles her nose.
CASEY
(smiles)
I know what you mean.
They reach a doorway on the side of the building.
JAMIE
Here we are. Are you ready?
CASEY
It's just a bunch of kids. How bad
could it be?
CUT TO:
INT. UU DAYCARE – CONTINUOUS
Jamie leads Casey into the daycare room, where a group of 10 or so young grade school kids are running around, doing various activities. A young woman with short brown hair and a mischievous grin looks over at them.
LAURA
You're the victim today, huh? Not
Clark.
JAMIE
(smiles)
Yes, but I brought reinforcements.
Laura, this is my girlfriend Casey.
LAURA
So you're the cute girlfriend Jamie
won't shut up about.
Jamie throws her a look.
JAMIE
Casey, this is Laura. She's Mormon.
Don't corrupt her.
LAURA
(laughs)
Shut up, Jamie.
CASEY
(grins)
Hi, how are you?
LAURA
(smiles)
I'm doing great. Hopefully things will
stay that way as we attempt to wear
these anklebiters out into taking a
nice nap.
JAMIE
I think Casey will be able to handle
that no problem.
She pats Casey's shoulder.
CASEY
I will?
JAMIE
Yes.
CASEY
I'm going to be running around, tiring
out a gaggle of kids?
JAMIE
(nods)
Yes.
CASEY
What are you going to be doing?
Jamie gives her an impish smile.
JAMIE
Watching you run around, tiring out a
gaggle of kids, cause you're cute when
you run around.
Casey gives her smirk and turns to Laura.
CASEY
And what will you be doing?
LAURA
(grins)
Supervising, another term for watching
you run around, cause Jamie says you
look cute while doing it.
Casey sighs and hangs her head in acceptance of her fate. She shuffles off to introduce herself to the flock of kids.
CASEY
(mumbles)
I'm outnumbered...
Laura and Jamie laugh to themselves as they watch Casey plop herself down in front of a small group of 3 kids coloring and giggling amongst themselves.
CUT TO:
INT. UU CHURCH - A MOMENT LATER
Tyler and Alice are sitting in a crowded row of chairs as people start to take their seats and open their songbooks, near an open door overlooking the small park and playground that are part of the church grounds. Clark and Andrea are sitting in the corner of the church, along with the rest of the teenage contingent of members. Outside, Casey bursts out onto the playground, followed by the kids hurrying after her, with Laura and Jamie following close behind to make sure none of them fall or hurt themselves. Tyler watches as Casey leads the kids to the grass and organizes a game of tag. They're too far away to make out what they're saying, but Tyler watches as one kid
stands and points to Casey.
CUT TO:
EXT. UU PLAYGROUND - CONTINUOUS
The kid pointing to Casey complains.
MIKE
But you're so big! You can't play!
You'd catch us all.
CASEY
(pouts)
But I want to play. That's so unfair.
MIKE
It's unfair that you're big.
CUT TO:
INT. UU CHURCH – CONTINUOUS
Tyler continues to watch as Casey and the kid argue back and forth until Jamie steps forward and puts a hand on her hips, telling them both something. Casey and Mike look at each other for a moment, then shrug. Laura cups her hands around her mouth and calls out.
LAURA
(faintly)
Go!
The children burst into a flurry of motion and quickly scatter throughout the yard as Jamie hops up onto Casey's back and gives chase. With Jamie on her back, Casey is slowed down enough to
lessen her advantage as she holds on to Jamie's legs and runs as fast as she can without killing the both of them and Jamie reaches out and tries to tag the other kids. Alice watches them play.
TYLER
You sure you don't want to be out
there today, honey?
ALICE
Nope.
She hops out of her seat and bolts out the door as
Tyler chuckles.
CUT TO:
INT. UU DAYCARE – LATER
All of the kids are laying on the floor with pillows and blankets, empty juice cartons and paper plates scattered around the floor. Laura is sitting crossed-legged to the side of the group, reading Phantom of the Opera. Casey and Jamie are on the other side of the group, laying on their stomachs with their own small blankets and pillows, facing each other. They've both got their arms folded in front of them with their chins resting on them. Casey slurps her little juice box.
CASEY
(grins)
I want more juice and cookies.
JAMIE
You ate like, the rest of the box. Not
to mention the cookies the kids left
on the plates when they fell asleep.
CASEY
They weren't going to finish them.
Jamie gives her a wrinkle-nosed grin.
JAMIE
You're incorrigible. Stealing cookies
from children.
CASEY
Hey, at least I'm not stealing candy
from babies.
Jamie laughs quietly.
CASEY
This is like being back in
kindergarten. For the third time.
JAMIE
Did you really fail kindergarten and
have to repeat it?
CASEY
(smiles)
Nah. I just use it as an excuse to act
like a kindergartner occasionally.
JAMIE
(raises an eyebrow)
Occasionally?
Casey gives her a mock hurt look, and Jamie grins and leans forward to kiss Casey's pouted lips.
JAMIE
You look so cute when you pout.
CASEY
You know, you seem to think everything
I do is cute.
JAMIE
(smiles)
That's because everything you do is
cute to me. Is that a bad thing?
CASEY
(smiles)
No, not really, but I'd like to get a
'hot' every once in a while.
JAMIE
'Cute', 'hot', I always thought they
were the same thing.
CASEY
So to you, the two terms are basically
interchangeable.
JAMIE
Basically.
CASEY
So whenever you say I'm cute, you're
actually saying I'm hot?
JAMIE
Essentially, yes.
CASEY
(grins)
Ok, I like that better.
Casey leans forward to kiss her.
CASEY
So about that getting frisky thing..
we're not exactly in a confessional,
but this is much more comfy.
JAMIE
Hmm, I don't know. I don't want to
scandalize the innocent bystanders
present here.
CASEY
The kids are asleep.
JAMIE
I was talking about Laura.
Laura looks up from her book.
LAURA
I heard that.
Jamie gives her an innocent smile.
LAURA
(rolls her eyes)
Just because I'm Mormon doesn't mean
I'm a naive innocent. Go back to your
friskiness. I don't mind.
(smirks)
And it's nothing my Mormon eyes
haven't seen before.
JAMIE
Oh, ew. I don't even want to know what
you meant by that.
Casey chuckles and yawns, then looks startled at herself for doing so.
JAMIE
Aw, you wore yourself out.
CASEY
I did not.
JAMIE
Did too.
CASEY
Did not.
JAMIE
(teases)
Do you want to take a nap too, like
the other little boys and girls?
Casey sticks her tongue out at her and flops around so she's on her back and pulls the little blanket up to her chin.
CASEY
What an excellent idea. No kisses for
you, then.
Jamie smiles to herself as she watches Casey pout. Casey adjusts the blanket a few times before sighing.
CASEY
It's cold in here and that crazy
Mormon over there gave me a blanket
intended for hobbits.
She rolls onto her side.
CASEY
I wasn't prepared for this crispy
California weather.
JAMIE
Do you want mine?
She peeks up at Jamie.
CASEY
Is it bigger than this one?
JAMIE
Not really.
CASEY
Nah.
She brings her head back down and tries to get comfortable. Jamie bites her lip, then gets up and
moves behind Casey, wrapping an arm around her waist and snuggling up to her back.
CASEY
Well, hello there.
JAMIE
I'm going to keep you warm.
Laura snorts from behind her book.
LAURA
(amused)
I just bet you will.
Jamie lifts up her head to shoot Laura a look over Casey's upper arm and Casey chuckles to herself.
CUT TO:
EXT. UU CHURCH PARKING LOT - LATER
Casey stretches her arms above her head as she and Jamie lean against the side of the car. Alice is inside, sitting in the driver's seat and playing with all the buttons, pretending she's driving. She honks on the horn suddenly and Jamie jumps. She glances back at Alice who giggles at her reaction. Jamie turns back around.
JAMIE
You have the keys, right?
Casey jingles them at her and grins as Jamie lets out a relieved breath.
CASEY
Should I give them to her?
JAMIE
(eyes widen)
No.
Casey teasingly holds out the keys in Alice's direction and Jamie lunges for them, grabbing nothing but air as Casey snatches them away from her grasp. Alice laughs and gives the horn a long honk. Jamie winces and Casey reaches over and gently removes Alice's hand from the
horn.
CASEY
Take it easy, kid. You can turn on the
radio instead, if you don't honk the
horn or turn it up too loud.
Alice does so and puts it on a station that's playing one of Hilary Duff's ubiquitous songs.
JAMIE
I think I would have preferred the
horn.
CASEY
(nods)
Out of the frying pan and into the
fire.
A stream of people start to pour out of the church, Tyler, Clark and Andrea among them.
ANDREA
Driving already?
ALICE
Yes. Casey's letting me drive her car.
TYLER
Do you have a license, young lady?
ALICE
Nope.
Casey and Jamie share a surreptitious grin.
TYLER
Then I'm afraid there'll be no driving
for you. C'mon now.
ALICE
But you said she could take me for a
ride.
TYLER
(laughs)
I said I'd think about it.
ALICE
Please?
CASEY
I don't mind. And I'm a very careful
driver.
JAMIE
(nods)
She is.
ALICE
And Jamie's going to come with us.
He looks at all three of them.
CLARK
I want to go too.
ANDREA
Me too.
TYLER
Can you all fit?
CLARK
Yeah. We'll sit in the back with Alice
and Jamie'll be up front.
TYLER
Well... alright. I suppose that's
okay.
ALICE
Yes! Can we leave the top down?
CASEY
(smiles)
Sure.
Everyone piles into the car, Clark and Andrea in the back with Alice in the middle, and Casey and Jamie up front.
JAMIE
How 'bout we go pick up some ice cream
or something? We can be back at the
house in 20 minutes.
ANDREA
Can we get it at Coldstone's?
CASEY
That's a good idea. It's down by the
beach, that's a nice drive.
TYLER
That sounds good. I'll see you all at
the house.
CUT TO:
EXT. CASEY'S CAR – CONTINUOUS
Clark assists Alice with her seatbelt as everyone else buckles up. Tyler leans down towards Casey.
TYLER
Drive safely.
She swallows and nods.
CASEY
I will.
He nods back and takes a step back as she turns the ignition. She pulls out of her parking spot and pauses in the exit, waiting for traffic to clear. She blows out a breath.
JAMIE
You okay?
CASEY
Yeah. I've just.. never driven too
carefully before. Now I'm all nervous.
Jamie pats her leg.
JAMIE
Relax.
Casey glances down at the hand resting on her thigh and raises an eyebrow at Jamie.
CASEY
Are you seriously going to tell me to
relax when you've got your hand on my
thigh?
Andrea laughs and Jamie giggles, removing her hand and placing it back on her own lap.
JAMIE
Sorry.
Casey grins at her and easily pulls into traffic. After a few moments, Jamie switches the radio from the offending station to another which is playing "Smile Like You Mean It" by the Killers. Clark and Andrea immediately start singing along, Casey joining in after recognizing the song.
CLARK
(singing along)
Save some face. You know you've only
got one.
ANDREA
(singing along)
Change your ways, while you're young.
Jamie reaches out and twines her fingers with Casey's free hand resting on the gear-shift.
CASEY
(singing along)
Boy, one day you'll be a man. Oh,
girl, he'll help you understand.
As they hit palm-tree lined Ocean Avenue along the beach near Casey's house, the song hits the chorus and Jamie closes her eyes and smiles, feeling the ocean breeze whip her hair back.
CUT TO:
EXT. FINGERPRINTS RECORDS - CONTINUOUS
Waiting for the light to change, Mia stands on the corner in front of Fingerprint's Record Store, where an outdoor radio system plays the same radio station, and sings along quietly under her breath.
MIA
(singing)
Dreams aren't what they used to be.
Some things slide by so carelessly.
CUT TO:
EXT. CASEY'S CAR - CONTINUOUS
They turn on to Second Street, a popular tourist shopping district next to the beach.
CASEY
(singing)
Smile like you mean it.
Jamie points to the corner in front of Fingerprint's.
JAMIE
Is that Mia?
CASEY
Yeah.
She maneuvers over and pulls up in front of Mia, who's surprised to see them.
CASEY
Hey.
MIA
(smiles)
Hey.
JAMIE
What's up?
Clark nods to Mia, but Andrea doesn't look at her, trying to conceal her hostility.
MIA
Hey, Jamie.
JAMIE
You know Clark. This is Andrea, and my
little sister Alice. Alice, this is my
friend Mia.
ALICE
Hi. I like your nails.
Mia glances at the deep red polish on her nails and chuckles.
MIA
Thanks, kid.
Mia gives her a smile and glances at Casey, who's fiddling with the zipper on her jacket.
JAMIE
What are you up to?
Mia holds up one of the shopping bags in her hand.
MIA
Causing chaos. I got really bored. I
tried going over to your house, Casey,
but you weren't there.
Casey looks up at her.
CASEY
I was at Jamie's church.
MIA
Oh. What are you guys doing now?
JAMIE
We're just heading over to Coldstone's
to get some ice cream. Want to come
with us?
Mia surveys the full car.
MIA
I don't think there's room.
Jamie glances back.
JAMIE
I'm sure they could squish together
and make room.
Andrea rolls her eyes and nods.
ANDREA
Sure. Come on in.
Mia notices her sarcastic tone and her brow furrows slightly.
MIA
Uh, I'll take a rain check on that.
I've got much more damage to inflict
on this street. I'll just see you guys
at school tomorrow.
JAMIE
Ok, cool.
Mia runs a hand through her hair.
MIA
Oh, Casey, are you going to call me
later about that thing I called you
about?
Casey shifts in her seat.
CASEY
Uh, sure. Yeah.
JAMIE
(curiously)
What thing?
MIA
Oh, it's just this English homework
thing.
JAMIE
(nods)
Oh.
MIA
Anyways, I'll see you guys.
JAMIE
(smiles)
Bye.
CASEY
Bye.
CLARK
Later.
ALICE
Bye!
Mia smiles at Alice and waves as Casey merges back into traffic.
CLARK
What was up with that?
He pokes Andrea.
ANDREA
What?
CLARK
If you were a porcupine, Mia'd be
picking quills out of her ass right
now.
ALICE
You said 'ass'! I'm telling.
Clark casually covers her mouth with a hand. She licks it but he's undeterred.
ANDREA
I don't like her, that's all.
JAMIE
Why?
ANDREA
(blurts)
Because she's just out to steal your
girlfriend. That doesn't bother you?
JAMIE
(laughs)
Oh, come on. Sure, she likes Casey,
but we have an understanding of each
other.
CASEY
You do?
JAMIE
Yeah, we had a talk.
CASEY
(bewildered)
When?
JAMIE
Like the week of your party.
ANDREA
'Understanding' my ass. How can you
say that?
Casey glances at Andrea in the rear view mirror nervously.
CASEY
Can we all not get into some sort of
argument? I feel one coming on.
ALICE
(muffled)
I want ice cream.
CASEY
We're gonna get it.
Andrea sighs and slouches in her seat.
ANDREA
Fine.
CUT TO:
INT. JAMIE'S LIVING ROOM - LATER
The door opens and the noisy group rolls into the house, and Tyler smiles reflexively as he hears the giggles. Jamie and Andrea are each holding a bag of ice cream cartons. Casey and Clark carrying Alice, Clark holding her arms and Casey with a firm grip on her ankles, swinging her back and forth as she laughs. They walk over and plop Alice down on the couch.
TYLER
You know, I'm amazed you ever learned
to walk. You've been conning Clark
into hauling you everywhere since you
were born.
CASEY
And he conned me into helping him.
Tyler notices the multiple bags.
TYLER
(brow furrows)
What is all that? I thought you just
went to get ice cream.
Jamie's brow furrows in a very similar expression.
JAMIE
This is the ice cream.
TYLER
Both bags?
Jamie nods.
JAMIE
We were all arguing about which ice
cream flavors we wanted to get, so we
ended up getting a carton for each
person.
TYLER
Jesus, James. What are we gonna do
with all that ice cream?
JAMIE
Eat it.
CASEY
(simultaneously)
Eat it.
They smile at each other. Tyler shrugs.
TYLER
Alright.
He stands and grabs the bag from Jamie.
TYLER
I'll get it dished out. Would you mind
giving me a hand in the kitchen,
Casey?
Casey glances at Jamie.
CASEY
Uh, sure. No problem.
She takes the other bag from Andrea, who smirks at her, and heads into the kitchen. Jamie bites her lip.
JAMIE
He's gonna kill her.
ANDREA
Relax. She'll be fine.
CLARK
She's a big girl, Jamie. She'll be
able to take care of herself.
They each grab one of her arms and they all plop down on the couch.
CUT TO:
INT. JAMIE'S LIVING ROOM - A MOMENT LATER
Jamie watches the clock while Casey and Tyler are still in the kitchen. She drums her fingers on her knee. Clark reaches out and places his hand on top of hers, stopping her. After a few moments, Jamie starts to bounce her other knee. Andrea and Clark both look at it and roll their eyes. Finally, Andrea reaches out and places her hand on Jamie's bouncing knee firmly.
ANDREA
Christ, Devlin. You're making me couch-
sick.
CLARK
There's no such thing.
ANDREA
There is now.
Jamie blows out a breath.
JAMIE
I'm going in there.
She extracts herself and heads to the kitchen, but stops short when she hears Tyler laughing.
TYLER(OS)
How did you kids manage to pull that
off?
CASEY(OS)
A little bit of planning and a lot of
sheer luck.
TYLER(OS)
I don't remember high school pranks
being that elaborate when I was a kid.
CASEY(OS)
We're very ambitious.
TYLER(OS)
I hope that applies to your academics
as well?
CASEY(OS)
Oh, uh, absolutely.
A pause.
TYLER(OS)
Do you know where you want to go to
college when you graduate?
CASEY(OS)
Not entirely. I'm considering Yale,
which is where my father went, but I'm
also looking at good theatre arts
schools.
Relieved that things seem to be going well, Jamie turns back around and plops back down onto the couch. Andrea and Clark look at her expectantly.
ANDREA
Well?
JAMIE
It..
(chuckles)
seems like they're getting along.
CLARK
(smiles)
Told you you were worried about
nothing.
ANDREA
Charming him should be a piece of cake
for her. You forget, Jamie, that Casey
completely charmed her way out of
being expelled after that water
balloon incident at school. She faced
the likes of Principal Blazer and
survived. Your dad is nowhere near as
terrifying and evil as that woman.
JAMIE
(laughs)
Good point.
CUT TO:
INT. MIA'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Mia's sitting on her bed, wearing a slim-fitting pair of jeans and a blue tank top. Her hair is up in a loose bun, keeping her hair out of her face as she wraps a large box in Christmas paper. Someone knocks on her door.
MIA
(absentmindedly)
Come in.
Nick opens the door and smiles.
NICK
Hey, sweetheart.
Startled, Mia drops the roll of tape.
MIA
(alarmed)
What are you doing here?
NICK
(chuckles)
What do you mean, what am I doing
here? I'm home.
MIA
(unsure)
Until?
NICK
Some time after Christmas.
She gives him a hesitant smile.
MIA
Really?
NICK
(grins)
Yeah.
He sits down on the edge of her bed.
NICK
What's this?
MIA
Oh.
Mia regards the box with a small, slightly sad smile.
MIA
It's a present for Casey.
NICK
(smiles)
Who's Casey?
MIA
This girl. A friend.
He nods and thinks to himself for a moment.
NICK
Well other than wrapping your present
for this Casey, you don't have any
other pressing plans for the moment,
do you?
MIA
No. Why?
He pats her leg.
NICK
Then finish wrapping this later. Let's
go do something.
MIA
(smiles)
Ok.
She hops off the bed and slips on a pair of heels before grabbing her purse and a jacket and following him out the door.
CUT TO:
INT. JAMIE'S LIVING ROOM - LATER
Jamie comes back in the house after walking Casey outside and closes the door. Andrea and Clark are in the kitchen, cleaning up the bowls. Alice is dozing in the recliner, with her legs dangling over the arm. Tyler sits on the couch, smiling gently at her lightly snoring form.
JAMIE
Can you pick her up for me? She's too
heavy now.
TYLER
Yeah, I'll get her to bed in a second.
He pats the couch next to him.
TYLER
Come sit.
She does so.
TYLER
Today was fun.
JAMIE
Yeah it was.
She waits for him to continue, but he doesn't.
JAMIE
And?
TYLER
(smiles)
And what?
JAMIE
Dad.
He chuckles.
TYLER
I have simple standards, Jamie. I
expect anyone who hopes to date you to
treat you with care and respect. And
she seems to do that.
JAMIE
I could've told you that.
He shakes a finger at her.
TYLER
It's my right as a dad to check that
out for myself. And it's my right to
throttle her if she doesn't meet my
standards.
Jamie bites her lip.
JAMIE
So no throttling is required?
TYLER
(smiles)
No. Plus, Clark seems to be good
friends with her. And Alice likes her.
She's got the Devlin seal of approval.
She hugs him.
JAMIE
Thanks, dad.
CUT TO:
INT. SCHOOL HALLWAY - MORNING
A bell rings through the hallway as students pour out from the classrooms. Casey and Jamie stroll through the hall.
CASEY
Do you really think he would've
throttled me if I did live up to his
expectations?
JAMIE
I don't know. He is from the South.
CASEY
Texas isn't the South.
JAMIE
(smiles)
Sure it is.
CASEY
It's south of the Mason-Dixon, but
it's not THE South. Only four states
can truly have the honor of being
called the South. Sometimes Florida.
But I don't know. Those Miami dwellers
are a species unto themselves.
Jamie wrinkles her nose as she grins.
JAMIE
If you say so.
CASEY
I do.
They stop as Casey spots Caleb.
CASEY
Hey, there he is. I wanted to talk to
him. Can I catch up with you at lunch?
JAMIE
Sure. Have fun.
Casey gives her a kiss before she walks out of the building. Casey continues on towards Caleb.
CUT TO:
INT. SCHOOL HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Mia prowls through the halls with Chris, scanning faces in the crowd.
CHRIS
You know, Casey seems to disappear
immediately after class nowadays.
MIA
Don't remind me. That's who we're
looking for.
CHRIS
And why are we looking for her again?
MIA
Because of that. Because she knows I
want to talk to her and she's been
avoiding me.
CHRIS
Mmm. You still haven't seen her since
that message you left her?
MIA
I've seen her. But either we're in
class, which she'll flee as soon as
the bell rings, or she's with Jamie
and I can't exactly talk to Casey
about the fact that I'm in love with
her in front of Jamie.
CHRIS
So we're searching.
MIA
(nods)
Yup.
CHRIS
Maybe we need to set a trap or
something. How about I talk to her and
make sure she's in a specific spot
long enough for you to find her?
Mia thinks about it for a second, peering around a corner to she if she can spot Casey then shakes her head.
MIA
I don't think that will work. You and
I are too attached to the hip. So
won't talk to you for any extended
period of time for fear of running
into me.
CHRIS
(snickers)
You really think she's afraid of
little ol' you?
MIA
She knows what I can do with a pair of
stilettos and an Hermes scarf.
Chris laughs. She stops suddenly and grabs his arm stopping him as well.
MIA
Where's Caleb?
CHRIS
Why?
MIA
Cause she was planning on talking to
him about Clark. I bet if we can find
him, we'll eventually find her.
CHRIS
His locker is in the 300 hall. Go on
without me. I'll see you at lunch.
She nods.
CUT TO:
INT. SCHOOL HALLWAY - MORNING
Casey adjusts her backpack and spots Caleb at his locker. She sidles up to him and leans a shoulder on the wall.
CASEY
How is my favorite little jock today?
CALEB
Good. How's mine?
CASEY
(smirks)
I'm good. But I'm still waiting for
you to ask Clark out.
She crosses her arms.
CALEB
Yes, yes, I know. You and Mia.
CASEY
She gave you the talk too, huh?
CALEB
Yeah, she did earlier this morning.
She's looking for you, you know.
Casey drops her gaze.
CASEY
Yeah, I know.
CALEB
Something wrong?
CASEY
(shakes her head)
No. I'm just.. I'm kinda out of it
today. Tired.
CALEB
I know how that goes.
CASEY
So are you going to quit being a
chicken and talk to him, or something?
Don't make me hit you.
CALEB
I will.
(grins)
Now, leave me alone and go find out
what Mia wants.
CASEY
Later.
She pats him on the back and heads down the hallway. She strides around the corner, but stops short when she spots Mia.
CASEY
Speak of the damn devil.
She tries to discreetly head back the way she came but Mia's noticed her and is already heading in her direction.
MIA
Can we talk?
CASEY
Uh, I-I've got a uh, I've got a...
make-up.. thing...a test to do.
Mia rolls her eyes.
MIA
No, you don't.
CASEY
Gotta run. See ya.
She tries to turn and flee, but Mia grabs her arm and roughly yanks her towards a nearby janitor's closet.
CASEY
(bewildered)
Wh...?
Mia opens the door and shoves Casey inside, then follows her and closes the door firmly behind her.
CUT TO:
INT. MAINTENANCE CLOSET – CONTINUOUS
They're stuck in the darkness for a few moments, before Mia finds the light switch, flicking it on and throwing a dim glow over the small space.
CASEY
You want to tell me what the hell you
think you're doing?
MIA
I'm trying to talk to you. Don't think
I don't know you're avoiding me.
You're such a chickenshit sometimes,
Casey.
CASEY
(faintly petulantly)
No, I'm not.
MIA
Did you get my message?
Casey pauses.
CASEY
Yeah, I did.
MIA
(hesitantly)
And?
CASEY
And what?
MIA
(raises her eyebrow)
You don't have anything to say to me
about it?
Casey blinks at her.
CASEY
Like what?
Mia laughs incredulously.
MIA
Oh, I don't know. I was kinda hoping
for an 'I love you too, Mia'.
CASEY
But I don't l..
Mia's face falls. Casey fumbles over her words as she watches Mia's reaction.
CASEY
... I-I'm not even sure if I love
Jamie either, honestly.
MIA
So you're saying you don't have
feelings for me?
CASEY
I didn't say that.
MIA
Christ, Casey, you can't keep jerking
me around like this-
CASEY
(quietly)
I know.
MIA
(talks over her)
-I mean.. I love you, damn it.
CASEY
That doesn't mean that I owe you. I
don't have to...
MIA
(interrupts)
I know that, but.. damn it, you owe me
an explanation, at least.
CASEY
For what?
MIA
(mocking)
'I'd never cheat on Jamie', blah,
blah, blah, 'no stop don't we can't',
blah, and then you kiss me?
Casey winces.
CASEY
I know. I.. y... we...
She sighs and gives up. Mia rubs the bridge of her nose.
MIA
Casey.. at this point, I am so head
over heels for you that I will take
whatever I can get.
CASEY
(confused)
Wh..
MIA
(continues)
I'd settle for seeing you in secret
and sharing you with Jamie.
Casey looks at her in disbelief.
CASEY
You can't be serious.
MIA
Don't look at me like that, Casey. You
know damn well that I'm being serious.
Casey sighs.
CASEY
No. It's bad enough that we... that
would just be beyond wrong.
MIA
Then break up with Jamie.
Casey closes her eyes and shakes her head.
CASEY
(softly)
I can't do that.
Mia gives her a despairing look and takes a deep breath.
CASEY
Look, Mia... I know I have feelings
for you. I'm just not sure how much or
what it means or... I'm just really
confused right now, alright?
MIA
I'm sorry. I didn't..
CASEY
No, it's okay. I'd be frustrated in
your position too.
Mia nods.
MIA
I really do just want you to be happy.
(sighs)
Take some time to figure things out.
If you decide you want to be with
Jamie, no doubts, then just tell me.
But if you want to be with me, or just
want to take a chance.. well, then you
know my answer's yes.
CASEY
Ok. Thanks.
Casey gives her a small smile, and Mia smiles back, reaching out to pull her into a hug. Casey's eyes widen and she tries to back away from her, but the door is right behind her, so she ends up pressing herself rather comically back against the door.
MIA
(irked)
What's wrong?
CASEY
I, uh, I think it'd be best if you
don't... touch me.. or anything.
MIA
(confused)
Why?
Casey rubs the back of her neck as she blushes slightly.
CASEY
Because my judgment gets really cloudy
the second you do.
MIA
(pleased)
Really?
CASEY
(chuckles)
Yeah.
MIA
(smiles)
Ok. I promised to keep my hands to
myself.
Casey clears her throat.
MIA
What?
CASEY
You left a loophole.
MIA
(defensively)
No, I didn't.
CASEY
Mia, my father's a lawyer. I know a
loophole when I see one.
MIA
How did I leave one?
CASEY
You said 'hands'. You didn't say
anything about the rest of yourself.
Which probably gets me into more
trouble.
Mia smirks and clasps her hands behind her back.
MIA
That's true, huh?
She takes a teasing step towards Casey, who tries to back up again.
CASEY
(pleads)
Mia, have mercy on me. Please.
Mia laughs and backs away.
MIA
Fine. I promise to keep my body to
myself and not touch you in any way.
Happy now?
CASEY
Well.. not entirely. But I think it's
wise to put a um...
She gestures in front of her.
CASEY
Boundary of sorts.
MIA
Ok. I can live with that for now.
CASEY
Alright.
She turns and starts to pull the door open when Mia's eyes suddenly go wide with terror and she lunges forward to stop her.
MIA
Wait!
CASEY
(bewildered)
Why?
MIA
It just occurred to me how bad this
could look if anybody saw us walk out
of here together.
CASEY
Well, what if people saw us come in
here in the first place? They'd
already know.
MIA
You want to take a chance and have it
get back to Jamie?
CASEY
(shakes her head)
Not really.
MIA
How are we gonna get out of here,
then?
CASEY
We should wait until class starts. The
hall should be empty by then. Then you
go first. I'll wait another couple
minutes. Just in case.
MIA
Ok. How much longer till class?
Casey looks at her watch.
CASEY
Four minutes.
They both shift, slightly uncomfortable. Mia turns to start pacing, but there's no room to. She sighs and rubs the back of her neck with a hand.
MIA
Ugh, small spaces are so retarded.
Casey watches her rub her neck and shoves her hands deep in her pockets in an effort to prevent herself from reaching out to touch Mia and bites her lip. Mia turns and sees Casey leaning back against the door casually, hands stuffed in her pockets, looking at her. Mia inhales deeply.
MIA
This boundary thing needs to work both
ways, otherwise my judgment is gonna
fly out the window as well.
CASEY
I'm not touching you.
MIA
You don't have to.
CASEY
Well, what do you want me to do?
MIA
Just.. stop... being cute.
Casey raises an eyebrow. Mia closes her eyes.
MIA
Never mind. I just won't look at you.
That should work.
Casey looks at her watch again.
CASEY
Three minutes.
CUT TO:
INT. SCHOOL HALLWAY – LATER
Casey opens the door a bit and hesitantly pokes her head outside. The hallway looks pretty clear.
CASEY
Ok, Casey. This is your chance to be
the secret ninja you always wanted to
be.
She steps out into the hall. A few voices start heading her way and she dashes behind an open classroom door. Two teachers on their break pass by her, oblivious to her presence. After they turn the corner, Casey pokes her head out again. She hurries past the classroom with the open door and continues on down the hall. Another teacher approaches and Casey dives into an alcove, waiting there until he passes without noticing her. She waits a few more moments,
then starts down the hallway again, cautiously. She reaches the end and grins, speeding up as she rounds the corner and exits the building and slams full on into somebody.
PRINCIPAL BLAZER
Hey!
Casey's eyes widen and she gives Principal Blazer and innocent smile.
CASEY
Principal! It's good to see you!
PRINCIPAL BLAZER
Why are you charging through here and
running into people? And why aren't
you in class?
Casey holds up a finger.
CASEY
(smiles)
Good question. You see...
She gestures towards the hallway.
CASEY
I was in there.. um... helping
someone.
PRINCIPAL BLAZER
Who?
CASEY
A person I met.
PRINCIPAL BLAZER
Helping them do what?
CASEY
Well... they're new to the school, and
I of all people know how confusing
this place can be when you're new. So
I was helping her find one of her
classrooms and chatting with her for a
bit to let her know I can help her
with any questions. That's why I was
late.
Principal Blazer crosses her arms and narrows her eyes
suspiciously.
CASEY
And you know, it's a bad thing to be
late for class. You can always miss
some important education. So here I
was trying to hurry on to class, when
I accidentally ran into you, and now
that you mention it...
She starts to walk off, backwards.
CASEY
..I really must get to class, because
I'm even more late now and I don't
want to miss out on a valuable
learning experience, so I'll catch you
next time.
She waves and smiles, then hurries off before the principal can reply.
CUT TO:
INT. TACO SURF - NIGHT
Mia and Leah sit across from each other at a booth, munching on the chips and salsa in front of them.
MIA
I'm glad you called. I was getting
bored since Dad's stuck typing up that
draft.
LEAH
So he's really in town huh?
MIA
Yeah, until at least after Christmas.
LEAH
Well, we won't be here long. By the
time you get back, he should be done
with that stuff.
MIA
Probably.
Leah takes a sip of her soda.
LEAH
So how are you doing with things?
MIA
What things?
LEAH
You know. Casey. She's still with
Jamie. You still have a thing for her?
MIA
Well, yeah. I can't really help it.
LEAH
Mmm.
MIA
It's just so.. lame. The first person
I've really felt something for in a
long time is taken. And damned
honorable about it, too.
LEAH
Maybe you should just wait it out. I
could be wrong, since I don't really
know Jamie, but on the surface, they
don't seem compatible.
MIA
Oh, they're compatible alright.
Opposites attract.
LEAH
Does it ever really work out, though?
MIA
Looks like it, so far.
Mia plays with her straw, glumly.
LEAH
Well, until then, you've got friends
to help take your mind of it.
Mia gives her a small smile.
MIA
Yeah. Thanks for being such a good
friend.
LEAH
(grins)
Oh, not just me.
Seemingly on cue, Chris, Meagan, Andrew, and Caleb show up. Andrew comes over and engulfs Mia in a bear hug.
MIA
Christ, Andrew. Try not to break me in
half.
ANDREW
You're a tough little thing. You can
take it.
Everyone slides into on of the seats, noisily chatting amongst themselves. Mia looks at Leah.
LEAH
(shrugs)
I gave them a call too.
MIA
(smiles)
Thanks.
LEAH
No problem.
CUT TO:
EXT. PLAYHOUSE - MORNING
Casey yawns as she waits outside the Playhouse before class, leaning a shoulder against the wall. Andrea rounds the corner, but Clark is nowhere to be seen.
CASEY
Hey. Where's Clark?
ANDREA
Oh, I'm sorry. I was expecting a
'hello, Andrea' or something.
CASEY
(grins)
Sorry. Hey, Andrea. It's just that you
two always walk here together.
ANDREA
Yeah, well, he's home, sick.
CASEY
(smirks)
Poor baby.
ANDREA
So's Jamie.
CASEY
(concerned)
Is she alright?
ANDREA
(smirks)
What happened to 'poor baby'?
CASEY
It's different. Clark's not my
girlfriend.
ANDREA
They're both alright.
Casey bites her lip.
CASEY
Maybe I should go over there.
ANDREA
Christ, Casey, she's got a cold or a
fever or something mundane like that.
She doesn't have ebola.
CASEY
How do you know?
ANDREA
(laughs)
I'm pretty sure. If you're so worried,
just go over during lunch. You've got
an off-campus pass, right?
CASEY
Yeah. Want to come with me?
ANDREA
Sure. We'll take off, right after
drama.
CASEY
Alright.
Andrea leans against the wall in a pose similar to Casey's.
ANDREA
So what have you been up to? I heard
you're on Principal Blazer's list
again.
CASEY
Well, I'm always on her list.
ANDREA
What did you do?
CASEY
I kinda bumped into her when I was
rounding a corner. And I was supposed
to be in class.
ANDREA
What were you doing?
Casey scratches the back of her neck.
CASEY
Talking to Mia.
ANDREA
(raises an eyebrow)
About what?
CASEY
Well, uh.. I.. wh... she um...
ANDREA
Spit it out already, Farrell.
CASEY
She wanted to be my mistress, for lack
of a better term.
Andrea pinches Casey's arm.
CASEY
Ow! What was that for?
ANDREA
Cause I can tell you considered it.
CASEY
No, I didn't.
ANDREA
Yes, you did.
CASEY
Well, maybe I did, but for like a
split-second. Anybody would have done
the same. I had to in order to fully
realize what she was asking me. After
that...
She shakes her head.
ANDREA
And you told her that?
CASEY
Yeah.
ANDREA
That girl needs to leave you alone.
She's like a homewrecker. A big, gay
homewrecker.
CASEY
It's not like she's intentionally
trying to ruin everything.
ANDREA
And yet, you just stood here and told
me that she's trying to convince you
to cheat on Jamie. Regularly.
CASEY
She's just frustrated. And I don't
understand why you're trying to yell
at me like it's my fault.
ANDREA
Maybe it is your fault.
CASEY
(protests)
I can't help the way she feels.
ANDREA
You ever think that maybe you lead her
on?
Casey pauses for a moment and sighs.
CASEY
Well, aside from that one stupid
kiss... no. If I did, it was
unintentional.
ANDREA
Look, I'm sorry I got all mad on you.
It's a sucky situation all around.
CASEY
Yeah.
ANDREA
Maybe she just needs a new girlfriend
to take her mind off you.
CASEY
Know any eligible bachelorettes?
Casey looks at her.
ANDREA
If you're suggesting what I think
you're suggesting, I'm going to rip
your head off.
CASEY
(confused)
Huh? I wasn't suggesting anything. I
was asking you if you knew any
eligible bachelorettes for Mia.
ANDREA
Ok. Let me think about it.
Casey pauses a second.
CASEY
Wait, did you think I was
suggesting...
ANDREA
Yes.
CASEY
(laughs)
God, no. Could you imagine the social
ramifications if you and Mia hooked
up? Beyond weird.
ANDREA
(nods)
Most definitely. I really would have
killed you if you were seriously
suggesting that.
CASEY
Nope, not at all.
ANDREA
Ok.
The bell rings and students start to emerge in the quad. Ms. Perry opens the door to let them in. Casey gestures for Andrea to go ahead of her.
CASEY
Does that mean I'm safe now?
ANDREA
(grins)
Until you do or say something stupid
again. Which is something that
happens, on average, every 10 minutes.
So, not for long.
CUT TO:
INT. JAMIE'S LIVING ROOM – LATER
Tyler opens the door to let in Andrea and Casey.
TYLER
Hey, girls.
ANDREA
(smiles)
Hi. We just thought we'd come by and
check on the patients.
Casey holds up a plastic grocery bag with a few cans of soup in it.
CASEY
And I brought sustenance. Have they
had lunch yet?
TYLER
No, actually, I was just about to head
to the store to pick some of that up.
How much did you bring?
CASEY
Probably more than they need.
TYLER
Well, all three of them are out.
ANDREA
(winces)
Alice too?
TYLER
Oh, yes. Although, I think she's just
fibbing a bit to stay home with her
brother and sister.
CASEY
(smiles)
Well, she can have soup too.
CUT TO:
INT. JAMIE'S HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Tyler leads Casey to Jamie's room, where her door is closed.
TYLER
She's been hunkered down all morning.
I don't know if she's still sleeping
or not.
He knocks gently.
TYLER
James?
JAMIE
(muffled)
Uhhh?
TYLER
Can I come in?
JAMIE
(muffled)
Unhh.
TYLER
I think that was a yes.
Casey nods.
CASEY
Me too.
CUT TO:
INT. JAMIE'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Jamie's huddled under the blankets, with a few crumpled tissues on her nightstand, watching her small tv when Tyler opens the door.
TYLER
(smiles)
You have a visitor.
Jamie notices Casey in the doorway and shrieks, pulling the covers up over her head. Casey and Tyler share a bewildered glance and Casey takes a step into the room.
CASEY
Jamie...
JAMIE
(muffled)
Don't look at me!
CASEY
Why? Do you have the chicken pox?
JAMIE
(hesitantly)
No... but don't look at me.
Casey sits on the edge of the bed and playfully tugs at the blanket. Jamie kicks her in the side.
CASEY
(laughs)
Ow. Jamie.
JAMIE
(petulantly)
No.
CASEY
Jamie, I demand you stop hiding your
beautiful face from me this instant.
Jamie remains silent for a few moments, then releases her death grip on the comforter and Casey slowly tugs it down to reveal her face. Aside from a red nose and flushed skin, Jamie doesn't look that different from usual. On the contrary, her tousled hair and rumpled PJs make her seem even more adorable and Casey can't help but grin.
CASEY
There you are. Gorgeous as ever.
JAMIE
(blushes)
Oh, shut up.
Casey chuckles and shrugs. After watching them for a moment with a fond smile on his face, Tyler chooses this moment to leave discreetly.
CASEY
It's true. So how are you really
feeling?
JAMIE
(pouts)
I hate being sick.
CASEY
Everyone hates being sick.
JAMIE
(nods)
Yeah, I know. I just want it to go
away. But I do feel a little bit
better now.
(smiles)
Now that you're here.
CASEY
(smiles)
You're going to feel even better,
because I have brought soup, and if
you will wait 5 minutes, I'll go make
it for you and bring it back. Ok?
JAMIE
You don't have to do that.
Casey shrugs a shoulder and grins.
CASEY
Eh, I'm a sucker for a cute face.
Jamie smiles to herself as she watches Casey stroll out of the room.
CUT TO:
INT. JAMIE'S ROOM – LATER
Jamie and Casey are both sitting back against the pillows in Jamie's bed, eating soup and watching tv. Jamie's comfortably reclining under the blankets on one side while Casey is on top of them on the other side. Alice walks past the open doorway and gasps.
ALICE
(shrieks)
Dad! Casey and Jamie are in bed
together!
A few loud footsteps are heard as Tyler rushes to the doorway. Casey and Jamie merely look up at him with spoons in their mouths, in the process of taking a sip. Tyler chuckles, and herds Alice out of the room.
TYLER
Sorry about that girls.
He pauses a moment, then pulls the door closed behind him.
TYLER
(fading as the door closes)
Honey, your sister's sick. Leave her..
Jamie looks at the now closed door.
JAMIE
Did he just...?
CASEY
Close the door on us? I think so.
Jamie sucks on her spoon thoughtfully.
JAMIE
I guess he really does trust you.
Casey drops her spoon in her now empty bowl and places it on the nightstand.
CASEY
(shakes her head)
Nah, I don't think that's it. I think
he trusts you.
Jamie leans over her to place her bowl on the nightstand next to Casey's. She remains there for a few moments, looking at Casey with a fond look on her face. Casey grins and raises an eyebrow at their close proximity.
CASEY
(teasing)
You don't want to do anything to break
your father's trust now, do you?
JAMIE
(grins)
No.
She leans forward and places a few gentle kisses on Casey's lips, before putting her head down on Casey's shoulder and letting out a contented sigh. Casey obligingly wraps her arms around Jamie and they lay together in silence for a few moments.
CASEY
You know, you need to give me your
grandparents' address so I can send
the Christmas presents out there.
JAMIE
Ok. Remind me later.
Casey sighs.
CASEY
I don't really want to go to New York.
JAMIE
I don't really want to go to Texas.
CASEY
Let's hide here in Long Beach to
celebrate Christmas.
JAMIE
Ok. But you won't get to see Shannon.
Don't you miss Shannon?
CASEY
Yeah, but when I'm there, I'll just
end up missing you, so either way I'm
unhappy about something.
JAMIE
We can ditch both our families at the
airport.
CASEY
(smiles)
I'll go get a last minute Christmas
tree. One of those really big ones.
JAMIE
Like a 12 footer?
CASEY
Yeah, it'll fit in my house.
JAMIE
Can I decorate everything in the
house?
CASEY
(wrinkles her nose)
Everything? That's a relatively big
house to decorate.
JAMIE
(smiles)
We can do it together.
CASEY
Alright. Sounds like a plan.
Contented, Jamie snuggles back down and they both close their eyes, drifting off.
FADE OUT.