Maligned by Jim Hunnicutt

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Maligned by Jim Hunnicutt

Jimhunni@knights.ucf.edu CRW 4616

FADE IN: INT. PARKING GARAGE - NIGHT Inside of a corporate parking garage is an elevator linking all the various floors together. Only a scattered few automobiles occupy the spaces. The elevator doors open with a chime. Out walks a WOMAN in her early 40s, professionally dressed in a suit top and mid-length matching skirt. She carries a large purse over one shoulder and a briefcase in her other hand. Someone watches the woman as she walks through the garage. As the woman goes towards her car, a LOUD CRASH echoes around her. The woman stops. Silence. The woman pauses for a few moments, looks around, then continues down the aisle towards her car. Someone emerges from a car. A car door slams. The woman stops. She is more nervous now. FOOTSTEPS are heard. Due to the echo, the woman is unsure as to their direction. She picks up her pace. As the woman moves faster, the sound of the footsteps grows and the pace quickens. The woman realizes someone is coming toward her. The woman races to her car. She drops her briefcase and struggles through her overflowing purse for her keys. The footsteps grow louder with each second. Panic grips the woman. She is caught between looking for her keys and scanning around for the source of the steps. Out of the darkness, a LARGE MAN appears. He wears blue jeans and a stained white T-shirt. He seizes the woman from behind. Before she realizes it, the large man thrusts his hand over her mouth, preventing her from screaming.

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The woman cannot break the mans grip. She struggles to cry out but he forces her to the ground. The man giggles under his breath as he runs his free hand underneath the womans skirt. Tears run from her eyes. As the mans hand reaches farther up her quivering thigh, a GUNSHOT rings out. The large mans hands tense up then grow limp. The woman struggles out from under the mans massive body. She is covered with blood. One look at the crater in the back of her attackers head tells her where it came from. The woman struggles to her feet. As she does, she sees a MAN walking towards her. He is SIDNEY, a tall thin man in his 30s. He wears a gray business suit without a tie. In his hand is a .35 caliber revolver. The barrel still smokes from its recent firing. WOMAN Oh my God! Oh my God! Oh my God! Sidney steps closer. SIDNEY Are you okay? The woman struggles to compose herself, despite what has just happened. WOMAN I... I think so. As he walks up to the woman, Sidney suddenly swings the handle of the gun into the womans temple. She collapses unconscious onto the body of the murdered man. Sidney stands over the two. He places his pistol on the top of the womans car. Sidney takes a small WRITING JOURNAL out of his back pocket. Removing the attached pen, he flips through the pages. Finding an empty page near the back, Sidney begins to write. After a few words, he stops. Sidney flips back into the journal several pages towards the front. He scans a page and locates an entry from a couple of years before.

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INSERT - THE JOURNAL, which reads: 5/13/09 - Middle aged Caucasian woman. Knocked unconscious. Raped. Shot through mouth. Parking garage. Atlanta. Sidney shuts the journal and returns it to his pocket. He picks up his pistol and shakes his head. Sidney mutters under his breath. A repeat. SIDNEY

He looks down onto the man he shot and the unconscious woman. He shoots the woman once in the head. SIDNEY (CONTD) Waste of my entire night. Sidney walks away from the scene, back into the dim bowels of the garage. INT. SIDNEYS BATHROOM - MORNING A shower runs behind a curtain. Off-key singing is heard from within. The shower stops. A mans hand reaches out and retrieves a towel. The curtains open and Sidney walks out, the towel secured around his waist. He wipes the steam from the mirror. He investigates the shadow of his beard, then picks up an electric shaver. As he shaves, Sidney notices his gun is on the back of the toilet. He finishes shaving and picks up the gun. INT. SIDNEYS KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER Sidney, wearing a pair of suit pants with no shirt, stands before his stove. He takes a frying pan and transfers the bacon sizzling on it to a plate. Dropping that pan into the adjoining sink, Sidney grabs a second frying pan and deposits the eggs cooking there next to the bacon. INT. SIDNEYS LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER Sidney sits down and places his breakfast next to a tall glass of milk already there. The gun now lies on the table as well.

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Next to the milk are a couple VITAMIN PILLS. Sidney pops the pills into his mouth and swallows them with the help of a sip of milk. From the floor below Sidney, a small gray CAT leaps up and lands in his masters lap. The cat spots the steaming food. Sidney spots the cats gaze. SIDNEY Dont even think about it, Bosco. Sidney scratches the cat on the head with one hand as he eats with the other. Bosco curls up next to him, satisfied. Sidney glances over to the clock. He abruptly stands, sending the cat onto the couch. Sidney moves over to a table in the room. He picks his PHONE up and presses a button. SIDNEY (CONTD) Call Julius at work. Sidney cleans up his breakfast as the phone dials the number and rings. After several rings, the phone goes to a voicemail box. JULIUS (V.O.) Youve reached Julius Simmons. I am unable to take your call at this time. Please leave a message and I will get back to you as soon as possible. The phone emits a loud beep. SIDNEY Julius. Its Sidney. Hey, Im to make it in time to stop by this morning. Ill see you at meeting. And thanks again for opportunity, buddy. not going your office the the

Sidney hangs up and sets his phone down. He picks up the gun before exiting the room and places it into his briefcase.

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EXT. SIDNEYS HOME - MINUTES LATER The garage door attached to a middle class suburban home opens. As it rises, Sidney, now dressed in full business attire, tosses his briefcase and climbs into a white midsized sedan. Sidney starts his car, pulls out of the garage and drives down a typical suburban community street. INT. COMPANY BOARDROOM-DAY A long wooden table occupies the center of a meeting room. Various BUSINESS PEOPLE meander around the table. Some busy themselves around a COFFEE MACHINE in the corner of the room. Others have taken their seat around the table. Sidney is one of those who has taken his seat. His briefcase is closed and he busies himself reading over some paperwork removed from a manila folder. He holds a pencil in his hand. JULIUS, an African-American man in his late 30s, walks into the room. He walks over to Sidney. JULIUS I wish you could have met me before this. SIDNEY If its about the promotion, I just wanted to say-Julius leans into Sidney. JULIUS About that. I wish we could have met up before. I wanted to tell you, as your friend, and before this meeting starts... Julius is cut off when MRS. BAKER, a well-dressed woman in her 50s, enters the room and walks to the head of the conference table. Everyone in the room stops what they are doing and moves to their appropriate seat. Julius walks to the head of the table, shakes the womans hand and sits down to her immediate right. All the seats around the table are filled with the exception of one.

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MRS. BAKER This wont take long. Id like to thank you all for coming. The purpose of this meeting is to announce who will replace Mr. Cogners as our new vice president of acquisitions. Mrs. Baker turns to Julius, who stares at the unoccupied chair. MRS. BAKER (CONTD) Mr. Simmons, as president of account acquisitions, has your department made a decision to offer to the board for vote? JULIUS Yes. Yes we have, Mrs. Baker. Unfortunately, it seems that Mr. Behan has been caught up in... As Julius speaks, the door to the conference room flies open. In rushes MICHAEL, a man in his late 20s. He appears disheveled and unorganized. Michael makes his way around the table to the one empty seat. All eyes stare at him. MICHAEL Im sorry Im late. Mrs. Baker does not wait for Michael to finish responding before speaking up to Julius. MRS. BAKER As you were saying. Michael doesnt speak further. Julius clears his throat. JULIUS As I was saying, upon reviews on performance both in and out of the department, and despite his lateness today, I would like to offer for the board's vote Mr. Behan as our new vice president of acquisitions. The pencil in Sidneys hand breaks.

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MRS. BAKER Does anyone have any comments before we have the vote of confidence for Mr. Behan? A man near the end of the table speaks immediately. BUSINESS MAN #1 Mr. Behans tardiness today does not instill me with the belief that he is the best man for this position. A woman chimes in from the other side of the table. BUSINESS WOMAN #1 What about the more senior members? Who all was involved with this decision? BUSINESS MAN #1 I find it hard to believe Mr. Behan was the best candidate. JULIUS Other candidates were reviewed. At this time, considering all aspects of performance, Mr. Behan was our best option. BUSINESS MAN #2 What about Mr. Russell? The man points across the table to Sidney. BUSINESS MAN #2 (CONTD) I have worked with Mr. Russell on several projects, all of which showed profit and were brought in under budget. Was he considered? The members of the room chatter and nod to one another. Sidney addresses the room. SIDNEY Ladies and gentlemen, please. While I did show an interest in the position, the decision was Mr. Simmons and his department to make. I have known Julius for many years and have the utmost faith in him. Sidney turns to the head of the table.

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SIDNEY (CONTD) Mrs. Baker, my vote is yea. MRS. BAKER Very well then. All in favor? After a moment of reflection, the group responds. Yea. All opposed? No one speaks. MRS. BAKER (CONTD) Then congratulations, Mr. Behan. This meeting is adjourned. The room disbands. Michael exits amidst handshakes and well-wishes. Julius stands by the seated Sidney. They are the only two in the room. JULIUS This is what I wanted to tell you. Before the meeting. SIDNEY I guess the vote didnt go in my favor. JULIUS Its complicated. Well talk about it tonight at the bar. Youre still coming, right? Sidney nods. JULIUS (CONTD) Okay. See you tonight. Sidney nods as Julius leaves. Sidney is alone and stares into space. His face reddens. Suddenly, he slams his fists into the table. Sidney breathes deeply and composes himself. After a few breaths, Sidney pauses. A grin grows across his face, replacing the anger. ALL MRS. BAKER

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He takes his phone out and places a call. SIDNEY Its me. No. No, just listen. You know how youve been wanting to go out on one of my.... adventures? No, not now. Not this time. I have something much, much better in mind. INT. OFFICE HALLWAY - MOMENTS LATER Julius sees Michael ahead of him and hurries down the hallway to catch up. JULIUS Hey, Michael! Michaels head springs around. MICHAEL Sorry, Julius. I didnt see you behind me. JULIUS The Floyd account. Where is it? MICHAEL In my office. I was finishing it up before the meeting. JULIUS See, I told you that youd finish it today. MICHAEL Almost. Just some final touches. JULIUS So its not finished? MICHAEL Its just taking me a little longer than I thought to get it all in order. Sidney said that hed help me out later. Ive been preoccupied getting my things together for the new office. Julius leans into Michael. JULIUS Thats what I want to talk to you about. You need to pick up the pace. (MORE)

10. JULIUS (CONT'D) Im getting heat about giving you this promotion. It doesnt help when you show up late.

MICHAEL Im working as hard as I can, Julius. I dont know what to say. Im trying. JULIUS I know you are. Like a brother, Julius takes Michael up by the shoulder. JULIUS (CONTD) Were almost family, Michael. Dont worry. Just have it to me by the end of the day. Just no more screw ups, okay? MICHAEL Thanks. Are we all still getting together after work? JULIUS Sure. We have to celebrate the promotion, right? INT. SIDNEYS OFFICE - LATER Sidney leans back in his chair. His mind is a million miles away. The intercom on his desk comes to life, snapping him back. SECRETARY (O.S.) Mr. Russell, you have a call from a Mr. Jones on line three. Sidney pushes the button to respond. SIDNEY Thank you, Miss Higgins. I have it. Sidney picks up the phone. SIDNEY (CONTD) Roger. How are you doing, man?

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INT. ROGERS HOUSE - CONTINUOUS ROGER, a chubby balding man in his 30s, talks into his phone. His home is large, indicating Roger has wealth, but there are no pictures or decorations along the walls. Roger sits in a leather recliner with a beer on the coffee table next to him. ROGER Same thing, different day. I cant believe Michael got the promotion over you. SIDNEY (V.O.) Its nepotism, Roger- pure and simple. If Michael wasnt with Monas little sister, the job would be mine. A far-away, longing look fills Rogers eyes. ROGER Mona. Sweet, sweet Mona. SIDNEY (V.O.) Still with Julius. Roger is silent. He looks over to the single framed picture on the table. INSERT - PHOTOGRAPH - It is of a young Roger and a very attractive blonde on their high school graduation day. SIDNEY (O.S.) (CONTD) Sorry, buddy. I didnt mean to open old wounds. Shaking his head, Roger takes a long drink from his beer before responding. ROGER I should have tried harder to show her how Ive always felt. SIDNEY (O.S.) You and Mona were quite a pair back in the day, huh? Rogers eyes glaze over and he travels back to his own little world.

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ROGER I wish. It was a classic story. She was the prom queen and I was her friend, her buddy, her pal. You know what friends of beautiful girls do in high school, Sidney? They help them with their homework, their shopping, their boyfriend issues. Rogers tone is becoming sadder with every word, yet there is an increasing feeling of anger welling up as well. ROGER (CONTD) But they do not, I repeat, do not ever, ever, get laid by them. Weve always stayed in touch as friends but nothing ever happened. Then she met Julius, fell in love, and that was the end of that. A sense of deep rejection fills Rogers voice. ROGER (CONTD) I tried to get her to love me. I even wrote her a poem once. SIDNEY (O.S.) No shit. What did she say? ROGER She said it was sweet, laughed a little bit, and told me that she didnt want to ruin our friendship. But you know Sidney, I know, deep down inside, she has feelings for me. Julius is just a fadsomething she needs to get out of her system. Her dad likes me. We golf together all the time. He hates Julius. INT. SIDNEYS OFFICE - CONTINUOUS Sidney smirks to himself. The wheels of his demonic imagination are beginning to spin. SIDNEY What did Julius ever do to Monas dad to piss him off? What, did he catch Mona blowing him or something? Roger shouts from the other end.

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ROGER (O.S.) Shut up! Dont say things like that about Mona. And besides, I think you know why. Sidney smiles. SIDNEY Picturing his precious lily-white daughter, I think I can guess. So what are you going to do about it, besides bitching and moaning? ROGER (O.S.) What do you mean? SIDNEY Are you coming by the bar tonight? I guess. ROGER (O.S.)

SIDNEY I think I can help you out. If you help me too. ROGER (O.S.) You know Id do anything to get Julius out of Monas life. SIDNEY Ill see you at the bar. Sidney hangs up. Smiling, he opens his briefcase. He pulls out his gun and strokes it. He sets the gun back in the case and takes out the same journal from the garage. Sidney scans the pages,one after another. Reaching the end, he tosses the journal into the briefcase. Sidney leans back, elated. SIDNEY (CONTD) Something new. This is all going to be so new. So special. EXT. HOUSE OF COMMONS BAR - NIGHT The bars name is carved into a large wooden sign in front of the entrance.

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INT. HOUSE OF COMMONS BAR - NIGHT The bar is a English-style pub. There are few patrons. Several televisions are showing various sports. A digital juke box and a couple of pool tables with faded green felt provide the entertainment. EMILY, a hippie woman in her late 30s who is Sidneys girlfriend, and Roger are sitting around a table drinking. With a burst, the bar doors swing open. Sidney enters. Roger is watching basketball highlights on a dusty television. He is not pleased with what he sees. ROGER God damn it! I havent picked a winner in weeks. Sidney kisses Emily on the head and sits down next to her, chuckling at Rogers pain. SIDNEY How much did you lose? ROGER Oh, its not the money. Its the principle. SIDNEY And yet you continue to bet. You got no one to blame but yourself. Sidney turns to Emily. SIDNEY (CONTD) How long have you two been here? Emily snuggles up and speaks softly to Sidney. EMILY Long enough. Im glad youre here. Rogers in a weird mood. Whats new? SIDNEY

MONA, a very attractive blonde in her late 20s, walks into the bar and joins the group. Rogers face glows when he sees her. He is about to greet Mona when he is cut off by Emily jumping to her feet.

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EMILY My girl! Its so good to see you again. Emily bounces over to Mona and gives her a long hug. Roger sits back down. Emily runs her hand through Monas long blonde hair. EMILY (CONTD) I want your hair. It is apparent that they are very close friends. Sidney absorbs this scene with glee. MONA I thought Julius would be here by now. Wheres my baby? SIDNEY Hell be here soon. Got hung up at the office with Michael. Sit down and have a drink. A middle-aged WAITRESS approaches the table. She is attractive, but the years she has spent working in a bar have taken their toll. WAITRESS Hey gang! Welcome back. Yall having fun tonight? Always. SIDNEY

The waitress blushes as Sidney winks at her. The waitress turns to Mona. WAITRESS Whatll you have, sweetie? MONA Baybreeze. And dont skimp on the vodka. Same for me. EMILY

SIDNEY A dark beer in a cold glass. ROGER Ill have another gin and tonic.

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WAITRESS Comin right up. The waitress leaves and passes Michael entering the bar. He sees the group and walks over. MICHAEL Julius is on his way. Michael plops into a empty seat on the other side of Mona. Mona gives him a warm, sisterly hug. MONA Hard day dealing with your big promotion? MICHAEL Not as hard as its going to be. Is Sarah coming? MONA She cant make it out tonight. Why not? MICHAEL

MONA Beats me. She just told me something came up. Michael is crestfallen. MICHAEL Why didnt she call me? Emily tries to pick up the mood. EMILY Just get yourself a drink. It always works for me. Emily waves at the waitress, who is walking over with the previously ordered drinks. The waitress sets the drinks down and turns to Michael. WAITRESS And what can I get for you, babe? MICHAEL Just water for me, thanks. SIDNEY Water? Were celebrating your promotion and you order water? (MORE)

17. SIDNEY (CONT'D) This is a celebration, man. Get something worthy of the occasion.

Sidney grabs the waitresss attention. SIDNEY (CONTD) Bring him a shot of whiskey. Top shelf. Hell, bring us all one. MICHAEL No, I dont think so. I have to pace myself. Roger attempts to get in on the banter with Michael. ROGER Its not like one drink is going to kill you. MICHAEL Well...alright. But just a light beer. No whiskey. Sure thing. The waitress leaves. Julius enters the bar. Sidney sees him first and stands up to greet him. SIDNEY Speak of the devil. JULIUS And the devil appears. Mona runs over to Julius and embraces him. MONA Ive been waiting for you. They kiss deeply. Julius sits down next to Mona. JULIUS Just had to tie up some loose ends. Have I missed much? SIDNEY Not at all. Michaels celebration has just begun. WAITRESS

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MICHAEL We cant get too crazy. JULIUS But we need to celebrate the occasion. Besides, what does anyone have to do tomorrow? Exactly. SIDNEY

MONA I dont work until three, so lets have some fun. The waitress comes back with a tray of drinks. WAITRESS Here you go, guys. The waitress places shots in front of everyone at the table. WAITRESS (CONTD) And heres the shots. I brought a couple extras. Just in case. SIDNEY Thank you, bar mistress. Belly up, ladies and gentlemen. You too, Michael. MICHAEL Really guys, I appreciate it but Im not a shot kind of guy. JULIUS Come on, VEEP Live a little tonight. The waitress returns to her duties. Everyone at the table picks up a shot of whiskey. Michael stares at his nervously before picking it up. Julius lifts his drink into the air and everyone else follows suit. JULIUS (CONTD) A toast. The new vice president of acquisitions. And as always, it is well to remember that there are five reasons for drinking- the arrival of a friend... EMILY Ones present...

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MONA Or future thirst... ROGER The excellence of the drink... SIDNEY Or any other reason. Everyone clinks their glasses together in warm salutations and drinks. The group begin to mingle with one another with the exception of Michael, who sits and stares at his empty shot glass. Sidney slaps Michael in a friendly fashion on the back and yells across the bar at the waitress. SIDNEY (CONTD) One more round! INT. HOUSE OF COMMONS BAR BATHROOM - LATER Sidney and Roger wash their hands in the otherwise empty bathroom. ROGER So how exactly does this help my situation with Mona? SIDNEY Patience, my friend. Michael never drinks much. He has no tolerance. But hes drunk now. So what? ROGER

SIDNEY So, part one is complete- Michaels toasted. Now for part two. You go outside and wait for him. Ill handle the rest. ROGER And then I jump him. So how does getting into a fight with him help me in any conceivable way? SIDNEY The party will break apart. Let Mona take Michael home. (MORE)

20. SIDNEY (CONT'D) You leave with Emily and Ill handle Julius. This is just step one.

ROGER Okay. I trust you. Even though I still dont see how this helps me. SIDNEY Just be ready when Michael comes out. He wont even know who you are. No worries, Roger. No worries. INT. HOUSE OF COMMONS BAR - MOMENTS LATER Roger grabs a pack of cigarettes off of the table and walks out of the bar. Sidney sits down next to Emily. Michael has his head on the table. Several empty shot glasses are in front of him. Mona and Julius just stare at him. MONA Ive never seen any one go out so fast. I guess he really isnt much of a drinker. JULIUS We need to get him home. Sidney walks over and shakes Michael awake. SIDNEY Come on. Time to get you some fresh air. Michael staggers up to his feet. Once there, he shakes Sidneys hands off of him. MICHAEL Im fine. I just need some air. He looks across the table, unable to focus. MICHAEL (CONTD) Where the hell are the smokes? I need a smoke. SIDNEY Roger has them outside. What? MICHAEL

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Michael turns and stumbles out the door. EMILY Hell be okay. A good cigarette is all he needs. Seconds later, the door to the bar flies open. Michael and Roger come tumbling in, grappling with each other. MICHAEL Give me the smokes! Sidney and Julius race over ahead of the women and pull the two men apart. Julius is irate. JULIUS What the hell is going on? Julius holds the struggling Michael away from Roger, who Sidney has by the arms. MICHAEL He stole all the smokes! Roger has the crumpled pack in his hand. ROGER I tried to give him one before he attacked me. Roger yells at Michael. ROGER (CONTD) Whats your problem? MICHAEL You had the smokes. Julius takes Michael and pushes him outside. JULIUS Wait out here! Dont move! MONA Lets get out of here, Julius. People are staring. SIDNEY Youre right, Mona. Can you take Michael home? Sure. MONA

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Mona hugs Julius. MONA (CONTD) Hell be okay. Ill calm him down. Mona exits the bar. SIDNEY Why dont you two head out? Julius and I can settle up here. EMILY Okay, baby. Call me. Emily peeks out the door and makes sure Michael is gone before she leaves with Roger following behind. Julius and Sidney return to the table and pick up the belongings left behind. JULIUS What was that all about? Two adults fighting over cigarettes? SIDNEY Hell, man, Michael just had too much to drink. He doesnt even know where he is. Mona will take care of him. And Roger... well, I wouldnt worry too much about Roger. Hes probably as confused as the rest of us. Julius bangs his fist into the table. JULIUS Thats no excuse. There is no excuse for that behavior. You cant justify it, Sidney. The waitress comes to the table. WAITRESS Everything okay? JULIUS Yeah. Sorry about the scene. WAITRESS Just be glad yall are my favorite customers. The waitress drops the bill onto the table and leaves.

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SIDNEY Hes just a little stressed out with the whole job thing. Add the fact that hes drunk out of his skull, and ta-da... instant asshole. JULIUS Thats just it. I put my ass on the line getting him this promotion and all of the sudden, hes late to meetings and now this. He knows he cant drink. He knows when to cut off. He has no self-control. None. Julius shakes his head and stares at Sidney. JULIUS (CONTD) And you defend him. Thats your problem, Sidney. Youre too nice. Theyre fighting like two little bitches and you play devils advocate. SIDNEY Fighting? You call that fighting? A couple of drunks rolling on the floor is hardly fighting. JULIUS Thats not the point. I should have given the job to you. What? SIDNEY

In a very deliberate motion, Julius places his hand on Sidneys shoulder. JULIUS You heard me. I dont know if Michael can handle it. Sidney pulls away and laughs off the remark. SIDNEY Julius, now you know thats not true. Juliuss tone indicates otherwise. JULIUS Yes, it is. You shouldve got that promotion first. I listened to the wrong people, including myself. Im sorry.

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SIDNEY Hey, you have nothing to be sorry about. Work is work. My friends are always my friends. Its settled. Now, lets get out of here before were talking to the cops. JULIUS Are you meeting up with Emily later? SIDNEY Most likely. Ill make sure everyone got home okay. Sidney changes the subject. SIDNEY (CONTD) By the way, did you hear what happened to Roger last week? What? JULIUS

SIDNEY He hired a prostitute and she told him not on the first date. This joke is just what Julius needed to calm down. JULIUS Nice one. Thanks. Now, what are we doing about this bill? Sidney picks the bill up. SIDNEY Michaels paying me back for this. Sidney gets money out of his wallet and leaves it on the table. INT. ROGERS HOUSE - LATER Roger enters his house, rubbing his jaw. INT. ROGERS BATHROOM - CONTINUOUS He examines the effects of the altercation on his face in the mirror. ROGER Fucking fight for no reason. Sidney had better have this figured out.

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Roger walks out of the bathroom, leaving the light on. There is a closed door opposite of the bathroom. Roger stands before it, staring. He reaches above the door and takes a small KEY that was hidden there. Opening the door, Roger walks in and closes the door behind him. INT. ROGERS HIDDEN ROOM - CONTINUOUS Roger pulls a thin chain which is connects to a single incandescent bulb. The bulb blinks then comes to life. The room Roger stands is small, almost a closet. Attached to every part of the walls are photographs glued and taped into a collage. Each photograph is of Mona. Roger runs his fingertips across his collage. The photos that show Mona with Julius all have Juliuss face either mutilated or cut out completely. Roger sits in the middle of the floor, his legs crossed beneath him. He reaches over under a small end table that is built low to the ground and pulls out a black leather cat-o'-ninetails style whip. Removing his shirt and folding it neatly, Roger takes the whip and begins to strike his back with it. Tears well in his eyes and streaks of blood trickle down his back as he stares at all the photographs of Mona. INT. MICHAELS HOUSE - AFTERNOON Sidney and Michael drink coffee. Michael has a severe hangover. His head hangs low. MICHAEL God, Im such an asshole. I dont even remember half the shit I did. I still dont know what got Roger so pissed. And Julius- I dont know how Im going to face him.

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SIDNEY Ive never seen Julius that mad before. He was on fire after everyone left. It was everything I could do to calm him down. Sidney takes a long sip of coffee and watches Michael. SIDNEY (CONTD) I guess thats why you didnt go to work? MICHAEL I just couldnt face Julius. What happened to me, Sidney? SIDNEY What happened? Leaning over the table, Sidney commands Michaels attention. SIDNEY (CONTD) I really dont know how to tell you this, but, well, Julius is having second thoughts about your promotion. Michaels head hangs even lower in his growing depression. After a moment, he picks his head up and offers a half-hearted smile to Sidney. MICHAEL Well, thats it. I dont even think hell give me my old job. I am screwed royally. SIDNEY No, thats not true. Hes a little hot right now, but hell cool off eventually. He always does. MICHAEL Oh yeah, hell calm down. Like in ten years when Im managing the night shift at Gulp n Go. Sidney stands up and stretches. As he speaks, he paces around the room. SIDNEY No, no. You just have to get him to cool off a little quicker than usual. MICHAEL And how exactly do I do that, Einstein?

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SIDNEY I cant talk to Julius when hes like this and you most certainly cant either. But Mona can. Let her do your work for you. Call her. Meet her after work and talk things through. Shes down at the cafe until seven. Go talk to her today. If anybody can knock some sense into Julius, its her. Michaels eyes follow Sidney in an almost trance-like gaze. MICHAEL And what makes you think shell do it? SIDNEY Please. Mona thinks youre the greatest thing that has ever happened to Sarah. Youre like the brother she never had. Youre part of her family now. MICHAEL Maybe youre right. And speaking of Sarah, I should probably go see her. I was supposed to go over last night. Theres no telling if shes still talking to me, either. SIDNEY I wouldnt worry about Sarah. Ive seen you two together. Dont worry about her. Just concentrate on this Julius situation. Sidney places a friendly arm on Michaels shoulder. SIDNEY (CONTD) Go talk to Mona. If you leave now, you should be able to catch her leaving the cafe. You need to straighten this situation out as soon as possible. We cant have bitter feelings among friends. Im on my way to the office to meet up with Julius. Ill talk to him and soon this will all be a memory. MICHAEL I just hope this is all works out as easy as you make it sound. The two men shake hands.

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MICHAEL (CONTD) Thanks, Sidney. Thanks a lot. SIDNEY What are friends for? EXT. CAFE - DUSK Michael sits alone at a small cafe table. Mona approaches and sits down at the table with two glasses of water. MONA So, what is this all about, Michael? MICHAEL Listen, I know I acted like a jackass last night. Sidney came by and told me everything. I was wondering if you talked to Julius today? MONA Hes picking me up in a few. I called him this morning but he was pretty quiet about it. You know that temper of his. Its like striking a match. Honestly, I havent seen him this upset in a long time. Mona leans in towards Michael. MONA (CONTD) Hes really hurt, Michael. He really stuck up for you on that promotion. I know youre doing your best, but Julius expects a lot from you. And after last night... I just dont know. MICHAEL I knew that I shouldnt have drunk that much. Down the shots and I lose my head. Stupid. Mona reaches over and holds Michaels hand. MONA Hey, itll be alright. Ill talk to Julius and see what I can do to smooth it over. Dont worry. He just needs a little while to blow off some steam, thats all. Its that temper of his. He cant help it.

29.

Michael grips Monas hand a little tighter. MICHAEL Hes never done anything to you, has he? MONA Of course not! Julius would never do anything like that. Never. He just has a short fuse. Sure it bothers me, but I guess it comes in the package. You got to love it all. MICHAEL Just as long as you keep him under your spell. Thank you so much for all this, Mona. I want to get everything back to normal. I couldnt stand losing all of you as my friends. INT. JULIUSS CAR-DUSK Sidney and Julius drive in Juliuss car. They are in the midst of a heated discussion. JULIUS I dont think Michaels right for the job anymore. SIDNEY Julius, come on now. It was just a big misunderstanding. So he got a little drunk. Who hasnt? Julius becomes more irate by the minute. JULIUS I dont care about that. He cant do the job, pure and simple. Hes incompetent. SIDNEY Im sure if you let Michael tell his side, hell have a logical explanation for everything. Sure, Ive had to help him out a time or two, but you really should give him a second chance. I cant I mean, him and it with JULIUS see how you can stick up for him. you should be telling me to fire instead you defend him. What is you?

Sidneys manner is almost fatherly in tone.

30.

SIDNEY I cant stand to see two friends of mine falling apart like this. You should think about the big picture. You and Michael are practically related. Cut him some slack. And you wait- when you talk to Mona, shell agree with me, too. JULIUS (calming down) Yeah, youre probably right. Shell just bat those big eyelashes of hers and Ill turn into jelly. That little lady can talk me into just about anything. What can I say? SIDNEY You dont have to say anything. You two are perfect together. I only wish Emily and I were that close. JULIUS That doesnt sound like you, Sidney. Trouble in paradise? SIDNEY Oh, its the same old shit. Im a hard man to love and I think its wearing her down. JULIUS Just stay by her, man. Love will see you through. Look at Mona and me. SIDNEY I guess youre right. Juliuss car pulls up parallel to the cafe and stops. Michael and Mona do not notice. EXT. CAFE - DUSK MONA Its the least I can do. You have to be able to take care of my little sister when were all one big happy family, right? MICHAEL (laughing) Yeah, I guess thats right. (MORE)

31. MICHAEL (CONT'D) Julius and I are kind of only two steps away from becoming brothers-in-law.

MONA Well, maybe only one. MICHAEL What? What are you saying, Mona? Did Julius ask you to marry him? MONA Not yet, but I know he will soon. Emily told me she saw him in a jewelry store on Park Street. Michael releases Monas hand and smirks in disbelief. MICHAEL Emily? Emily said that? I wouldnt put a whole lot of faith in her, Mona. She was probably hallucinating the whole thing. Seriously, I dont see how you can be friends. And I sure the hell cant figure out why a nice guy like Sidney is mixed up with her. MONA Ive known Emily for way too long to let her go now. Sure, she has her problems, but who doesnt? Ill always love her. Shes part of my life, just like you, Sidney- all of us. You know, Michael, sometimes you dont choose your friendsthey choose you. If she says that she saw Julius, she saw him. Michael smiles halfheartedly. MICHAEL Alright. I guess if you trust her, then Ill trust her too. Well, when do you think hell pop the question? MONA I dont know. I just hope that hes in a better mood when he shows up. INT. JULIUSS CAR - DUSK JULIUS Wait a second. Whos that sitting with Mona?

32.

Sidney squints to investigate. SIDNEY It looks like Michael. Hes probably talking to her about this situation right now. I knew he was upset about it. Juliuss temper flares. He goes for the car door. JULIUS Upset? Ill show him upset! That motherfucker! Hes holding her hand! What the fuck is this? Sidney has to physically restrain Julius from leaving the car. SIDNEY Hold on, man. Nothing is going on. Theyre only talking. Relax, brother. I just didnt know they were such good friends. Julius turns. He is inches away from Sidneys face. Theyre hanging started bastard JULIUS always talking on the phone or out or something. Ever since he dating her sister, I see that everywhere I look.

Sidney releases Julius, who restrains himself. SIDNEY Oh, thats right, hes one of the family now, I guess. JULIUS What do you mean you guess? What are you trying to say? SIDNEY No disrespect, man. Im just saying that theyre like brother and sister. Relax. Theres nothing wrong with that. Sidney gazes at Mona and Michael sitting together for a moment, then turns his attention back to Julius. SIDNEY (CONTD) And, I mean, its not like Mona would ever cheat on you or anything. Especially with Michael. Get serious, brother. Shes not that kind of girl. (MORE)

33. SIDNEY (CONTD) Hes with Sarah anyway. Nothing would happen between those two.

JULIUS You dont know that, Sidney. You dont know people like I do. People are capable of anything. Especially women. Julius seethes as he looks at Mona and Michael. JULIUS (CONTD) Fuck this! Im finding out whats going on right now. Julius opens the car door, but is once again restrained by Sidney. Sidney pulls him back in and shuts the door. SIDNEY Not like this. Take her home. Let her explain in her own words. Shell tell you whats going on. Its nothing. Trust me. Jesus Christ, Julius, youve got to control that temper. Youll have a stroke. Julius regains a measure of composure. JULIUS Maybe youre right. I love Mona and she loves me. Ive got to trust that. But so help me if Im wrong, Michaels a dead man. Bet on it. SIDNEY I am right. Trust me on this. Id never steer you wrong. Youre my best friend. Now lets get out of here before you explode. Sidney reaches over and turns on the cars ignition. JULIUS What about Mona? SIDNEY Can you drop me off back at the office? I forgot my briefcase. You can be back here in ten minutes. Itll give you time to relax. Juliuss car drives away.

34.

EXT. CAFE - DUSK MICHAEL Want me to wait with you? MONA You better let me see Julius before he sees you. Michael stands up to leave. MONA (CONTD) Dont worry. I know ways of bringing a smile to Juliuss face. See you later, Michael. MICHAEL Thanks for everything, Mona. Youre the best. The two embrace in a friendly hug. MONA Just promise to keep treating Sarah right. Shes young, you know. Shes still a little wet behind the ears. MICHAEL On my way to see her now. Oh, and Mona-Michael cracks a devilish grin. MICHAEL (CONTD) Thats not the only place. This causes Mona to pull away from Michael. MONA Thats a little more information than I need, thank you. Ill see you later. EXT. SIDNEYS OFFICE BUILDING - NIGHT Sidney walks to his car and pops the trunk. He sets his briefcase inside. A loud CRASH comes from the end of an alley that separates Sidneys building from the adjacent one. He can hear men yelling, but cannot make out what they are saying. Sidney looks around. There is no one around.

35.

Sidney opens his briefcase. He hides his pistol in his waist and goes to investigate. EXT. ALLEY - NIGHT The light of the alley is spotty, casting long shadows in several directions. Using these shadows, Sidney creeps down the alley. At the end, two HOMELESS MEN appear to be trying to catch something amidst the trash cans. HOMELESS MAN #1 Lil bastard went back there. Dont let him out. We got him now. HOMELESS MAN #2 Just grab him and break his scrawny neck. HOMELESS MAN #1 What if he scratches me again? Sidney walks out of the shadows and to the men. SIDNEY What seems to be the problem? One of the men turns. He snarls at Sidney, showing his yellowed and missing teeth. HOMELESS MAN #2 Just getting even, mister. Theres a cat back there that done stole our dinner. Now hes dinner. SIDNEY Youre planning on eating a cat? A cat that outsmarted both of you? Sounds like he taught you two pieces of filth a lesson on evolution. At this, both men forget their quest to capture the cat and turn their attention to Sidney. HOMELESS MAN #2 And whats that, asshole? SIDNEY Survival of the fittest. Sidney pulls out his pistol and shoots one of the homeless men in the head.

36.

The other man falls to the ground. HOMELESS MAN #1 Dont shoot me, man! I didnt mean nothing. Please dont shoot me! Sidney stands before the pleading man. SIDNEY Dont worry. Besides, two gunshots might attract attention. Turning the pistol in his hand, Sidney begins to pistolwhip the second man in the head until all that is left is a bloody pulp. Satisfied, Sidney rips a piece of cloth from the shot man and wipes his hands and gun clean. As he is doing this, a trash can lid crashes to the concrete behind him. Sidney spins around, pistol at the ready. A thin calico cat sits perched on a pile of refuse. Sidney looks at the poor animal, who stares back at him. After a moment, the cat stretches and starts to clean himself. SIDNEY (CONTD) You stay safe tonight. And dont go down alleys you cant get out of anymore. The cat lets out a meow and Sidney walks away. EXT. SIDNEYS OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER His truck open, Sidney places his pistol back into the briefcase. He takes out his journal. Flipping to the back he writes. SIDNEY Already have a new one in the book. Sidney closes the journal, tosses it into the case and closes the trunk. SIDNEY (CONTD) And the weeks just getting started.

37.

INT. MONAS HOME - NIGHT Julius sits next to Mona, who cuddles up next to him. MONA You were quiet the whole ride home. Do you want to talk about something? JULIUS Actually, I do. I drove by the cafe earlier. What were you and Michael talking about? Mona sits upright. MONA He wanted me to talk to you about his job. He is really upset about the whole thing and, quite frankly, hes scared to death of you. Maybe you overreacted a bit, honey. It was one night. He deserves a little forgiveness. Mona pulls Julius closer. MONA (CONTD) And Id really be thankful, too. JULIUS It sounds like Michael means a lot to you. MONA I have to look after my sisters boyfriend, dont I? JULIUS And I guess you were looking after him when you were holding his hand and rubbing up on him at the cafe, huh? MONA Rubbing up on him? What are you talking about? The eyes of Julius burn with jealousy. JULIUS And did you take care of him when he was drunk, too? Mona leans away from Julius.

38.

MONA What are you saying, Julius? JULIUS It just seems to me that you two are getting a little too close lately. MONA Youve got to be kidding. I dont believe Im even having this conversation with you. Michaels my friend, Julius. Yours too the last time I checked. I was only helping him out. Dont look at me that way. Julius continues to stare at Mona until she stands up in anger. MONA (CONTD) Hes dating my little sister, for Gods sake. What am I supposed to do when he comes to me for help? Julius throws his hands into the air. JULIUS Just keep it in the family. One big, happy, Norman Rockwell, motherfucking family. Im not stupid, Mona. Dont screw with me. MONA You bastard. I cant believe youd accuse me of something like that. Especially when youre the one spying on me at work! You and that fucking imagination of yours can just go straight to hell! Mona runs into the bathroom crying. Julius bolts after her. JULIUS Im not finished with this, Mona! Not by a long shot! Mona slams the door to the bathroom. Julius hits the locked door. JULIUS (CONTD) Open this door, Mona! Before I break it down. Do you hear me? Ill break this fucker down!

39.

Julius lowers a shoulder into the door and shoves. The door holds strong. Mona is sitting on the toilet, crying. She throws a roll of toilet paper at the door. MONA Get away from me, Julius! Youre talking crazy! You are crazy!! JULIUS Are you fucking Michael or not? I deserve to know! Mona throws open the door and stands eye-to-eye with Julius. She has had enough and neither one seems willing to give an inch. MONA God, no! Not in a million years. I love you, Julius. Right now I dont know why, but I love you. I would never cheat on you. Never. I love you too much for that. And I always will. Tears well up in Juliuss eyes. His anger begins to dissipate. JULIUS Dont lie to me, Mona. Thats the one thing I cant take. Please dont be lying to me. MONA Ill never lie to you. Youre everything to me. You always will be. Julius falls to his knees, embracing Monas legs. His voice fills with tears. JULIUS Im sorry, Mona. When I saw you two today, I lost my head. Im sorry. God damn this temper of mine. Im so sorry. Sidney said it was nothing. I shouldve listened to him. Mona embraces the top of Juliuss head, comforting him. MONA Yes, you should have. Sidney is your friend. And Im your girlfriend. If you cant trust us, youre in bad shape. (MORE)

40. MONA (CONT'D) I love you, Julius. If we dont have trust, baby, we dont have anything.

Julius stands and holds Mona. JULIUS I feel so bad about this. Let me make it up to you. MONA Just a second. You cant just yell like that at me one minute and pretend nothing happened the next. Julius melts Mona with a puppy-dog expression. JULIUS Maybe a massage would help? You know you love my magic hands. MONA Let me get cleaned up. JULIUS Dont clean up too much. I like it when youre dirty. MONA Get out of here. Julius leaves. Mona goes back into the bathroom, shuts the door and rinses her face in the sink. INT. EMILYS HOUSE - NIGHT Grey columns of smoke float through the air. Sidney and Emily sit together on the couch. Emily is curled up close to Sidney, practically in his lap enjoying a joint. She is dressed only in a mismatching bra and panty set. Sidney is in the middle of a story. SIDNEY You know the one Im talking about, right? EMILY Yes, but why is that one so important? I have dozens of scarves.

41.

SIDNEY Julius gave that scarf to Mona years ago when they first started dating. Its the only thing his grandmother gave him before she died. It was like the first thing she bought when she moved to America or something. He always told me that it symbolized his love more than any ring ever could. Sidney pulls Emilys head up. He locks his eyes with hers. SIDNEY (CONTD) Youre the only one who can pull this off. Just go over and get it for me. EMILY I know what youre talking about, baby, but I still dont know why you want it. SIDNEY I told you. Its a surprise. Emily bounces up with excitement. EMILY Oooo...I love surprises. Tell me why you need it, Sidney. You have to tell me now or I wont help. SIDNEY You have to promise not to breathe a word to anyone. EMILY I promise. Now spill the beans. SIDNEY Its for a wedding gift. Emily squeals. EMILY Shut up! You cant be serious. Julius is going to pop the question? I knew it! When I saw him going into the jewelry store on Park Street, I knew it. Is he going to do it soon? SIDNEY Yeah, I think so. I mean, you see how they are around each other and Julius has popped some hints out here and there. (MORE)

42. SIDNEY (CONT'D) I was thinking that it would look cool if, at the wedding, each table had a copy of Juliuss scarf on it. You know, to show our love and support for them.

EMILY Whos going to make the copies? SIDNEY Dont worry. I already have it taken care of. I only need it for a couple days. Youll have it back to her before she notices its gone. EMILY Well, I am having coffee with Mona tomorrow. And I think that is a wonderful idea. Im in. Emily puts the joint out in the ashtray and jumps up. Sidney looks at the crumbled joint and remains seated. SIDNEY Remember- this whole thing is a surprise. If Mona or Julius find out, the whole thing is going to be ruined. EMILY Oh, I love secrets. And dont worry, you can trust me, baby. Were just like Scarecrow and Mrs. King! My lips are sealed. SIDNEY Dont seal them quite yet. Emily giggles, bites her lip, and slowly drops down to her knees. SIDNEY (CONTD) My bad little boy. Sidney tosses his head back and smiles. INT. MONAS HOUSE - MORNING Mona and Emily sit together on the couch. There are two coffee cups and a couple of doughnuts on table in front of them. EMILY Youve got to be kidding me. Michael tried to kiss you? Oh my God!

43.

MONA I know. He was so drunk. Thank God he doesnt remember. It would just crush Michael if he found out what he did. Mona takes a sip. MONA (CONTD) Not to mention what it would do to Sarah. Or Julius. Jesus, if Julius found out, hed kill Michael. Now you cant say anything to anybody about this. Not even Sidney. EMILY Dont worry, girl. You can trust me. Emily holds two fingers up and pledges. EMILY (CONTD) Brownie honor. Emily reaches for her purse. EMILY (CONTD) Mind if I use your bathroom, sweetie? MONA Not at all. Just dont make a mess. Julius is stopping by soon. Emily pauses in the bathroom doorway and turns around flamboyantly. EMILY Darling, I never leave a trace. INT. MONAS BATHROOM - CONTINUOUS The door shuts tightly behind Emily and she locks it. She closes the lid of the toilet and sets her purse down on it. Rummaging through the content, Emily removes a small glass vial containing powdered cocaine and a compact mirror. These items are placed onto the counter as Emily goes through well-rehearsed motions. Emptying a small amount of the powder onto the mirror, Emily separates it into two lines using her fingernail. She turns on the faucet, running water into the sink to provide background noise.

44.

Emily reaches into her purse again, this time pulling out a single dollar bill. She rolls the bill into a thin tube, places one end in her nose then inhales a line into her eager nostril. Emily repeats these actions with the other nostril. She breathes in deeply, forcing the powder deep within her body. Gathering her composure, she returns the items to her purse and shuts off the water. She examines the area to make sure there is no trace of her deed. Before walking out, however, Emily notices that the SCARF is wrapped along a framed picture of Mona and Julius on a shelf. She cannot believe her luck. With a delicate touch, she takes the scarf, giggles, places it into her purse and exits. INT. MICHAELS HOME - MORNING Michael and Sarah sit on a couch, sipping coffee. Is this new? MICHAEL

SARAH Yeah. Its a Arabica blend I picked up yesterday at the market. What do you think? Michael sets his coffee cup down and scoots closer to Sarah. MICHAEL I think you taste better than this ever could. Michael leans in a kisses Sarah deeply. SARAH Okay, loverboy. I thought you got this all out of your system last night. Remember, you were the one who ran out of gas. Not me. MICHAEL A man can only take so much. Trust methe batterys recharged now. Sarah pushes him away.

45.

SARAH Maybe later. I have errands to do today. Sarah stands and grabs her purse. She reaches in and checks her cellphone. The phone indicates she has three missed calls. Sarah quickly puts the phone back into her purse. SARAH (CONTD) Okay, babe. Will you be home later? MICHAEL Waiting for you. Sarah exits the house. INT. SARAHS CAR - MOMENTS LATER Once inside of her car, Sarah grabs her phone and calls the number that has been trying to reach her. SARAH Hey, its me. Sorry I missed you. I was with Michael. No, he doesnt suspect anything. The man is clueless. Yes I still want in. Yes... anything. Just tell me what I have to do to get that motherfucker away from my sister. Sarah listens to the voice on the other end. SARAH (CONTD) Wow. You really have this thing all figured out. It will be my pleasure. Sarah hangs up the phone. She speaks to herself as she drives away from Michaels home. SARAH (CONTD) This is going to be more fun than I thought. That bastard shouldve let me help him years ago.

INT. HOUSE OF COMMONS BAR - AFTERNOON Sidney is sitting in a booth. A beer and two empty shot glasses rest on the table in front of him.

46.

Emily walks over to him and sits down with her purse firmly in her grasp. SIDNEY Thank God youre here, baby. I was beginning to wonder what happened. Did you get it? EMILY First, Sidney, tell me. Who do you love? SIDNEY That all depends on what you have in your purse. Tell me you got it. Just tell me you did. Sidney reaches for the purse. Emily pulls her purse away from him, shaking her finger. EMILY No, no, no. Not yet. Now, I am serious, Sidney. Who do you love? SIDNEY I love you, Emily. I love you. You know that. EMILY I just like to hear it. So, how much do you love me? Sidney forces a weak smile at Emily. SIDNEY All any man could. Ill love you until God dies. Is that good enough for you? EMILY Yes. Yes it is. Now was that so hard? SIDNEY It was my pleasure. Now, did you get it or not? Emily reaches into her purse and presents the scarf in dramatic fashion. EMILY Ta-da! And Emily the Great does it again. Thank you, thank you. Sidney snatches the scarf from her hand and examines it eagerly. His eyes shine in anticipation.

47.

SIDNEY This is perfect, baby. Perfect. Thank you. Thank you so much. You are the best. Where did you find it? EMILY It was in the bathroom on a picture of her and Julius. She doesnt have a clue its gone yet. SIDNEY You are a genius. And I am the luckiest man ever born. EMILY Ill have to get it back before Mona misses it. How long will you need it? SIDNEY Two, three days max. Dont worry. She wont notice its gone. I hope not. EMILY

Sidney leans over the table and kisses Emily unusually deep. He breaks away and stands, leaving Emily still kissing the air. SIDNEY Ive got to get going. You go home and relax. Ill see you in a couple hours to show you how much I really do appreciate this. Sidney races out of the bar. Emily calls after him. EMILY You better! And be careful with that! Dont lose it! Sidney does not acknowledge her as he exits the bar. Emily shouts again. EMILY (CONT'D) Bye, baby!! I love you! Emily leans back with a look of complete contentment upon her face. The moment is broken when the waitress approaches. WAITRESS #2 Uh, where is he going?

48.

Emily looks at the waitress coldly. EMILY What business is it of yours? WAITRESS #2 He didnt pay his tab. Emily is visibly embarrassed by her tone. EMILY Oh, sorry. I didnt mean to snap at you. PMS. You understand, dont you? Whats the damage? WAITRESS #2 Twenty- two, fifty. Emily reaches into her purse with reluctance. EMILY (to herself) Oh, Sidney, you had better be worth it. INT. SIDNEYS CAR - MOMENTS LATER Sidney talks to Roger on his phone. SIDNEY I just need you to keep your cool for a few more days. ROGER (O.S.) Fuck that. Julius needs to be out of the picture. You promised. SIDNEY I know I did. But somethings come up. ROGER (O.S.) What now? This better not be some other plan or some shit like that. SIDNEY Things have gotten complicated. With Michael. ROGER (O.S.) What does that son of a bitch have to do with me and Mona?

49.

SIDNEY Hes getting in the way. I think hes just using Sarah to get closer to Mona. ROGER (O.S.) So what does that have to do with me and you? And the plan? SIDNEY What are you ready to do to get Mona? I mean, really ready to do? There is a long pause. ROGER (O.S.) Anything, Sidney. Anything. SIDNEY This might get messy. Anythings a big word. ROGER (O.S.) I know what I said. Just dont leave me out on a limb. Let me know what, when and where. Ill do it. SIDNEY I knew I could count on you. I didnt think this was going to get so... you know. Im wondering if I have the stomach for it. ROGER (O.S.) I know I do. Let me take care of this. Ill talk to you later. Roger hangs up. Sidney talks to himself. SIDNEY Yes you will. Sidneys briefcase is next to him. He opens it and pulls out his journal. He flips through the pages, scanning all his previously recorded deeds, smiling all the time. SIDNEY (CONTD) This is going to be a masterpiece before its over. Julius, Roger, Michael, Monaall of them a masterpiece.

50.

INT. MONAS HOUSE - AFTERNOON Julius and Mona lie in bed next to one another. Clothing is strewn across the room. MONA My God, that was fantastic. I love you, Julius. JULIUS I love you, too, Mona. And Im sorry that I yelled at you yesterday. I just get so jealous sometimes. I see the way other guys look at you and I cant help myself. Mona leans over, grabs a cigarette, and lights it. MONA Well, its not like were married or anything. JULIUS Not yet, anyway. I mean, not right now. But you never know what the future has in store. Julius takes the cigarette from Mona and draws deeply from it. MONA What are you saying, Julius? JULIUS You never know, Mona. Time is flying by both of us. It would be a shame to end up old... and alone. Julius puts the cigarette out. JULIUS (CONTD) And I have no intention of ever letting someone as beautiful as you slip through my fingers. Monas eyes light up in anticipation of Juliuss next words. MONA What are you trying to say, baby? JULIUS I never want to wake up without seeing you beside me, Mona. Will you be there for me?

51.

Ill Ill now, love

MONA always be there for you. Always. never leave you, Julius. I love you and Ill love you tomorrow, and Ill you everyday after that.

JULIUS It does my heart good to hear you say that. Julius strokes Monas flowing hair. JULIUS (CONTD) God, I wish we could just lay here forever. I want to stare into your eyes and make love to you all night long. MONA Me, too. But I have to go see Emily. I told her that I was on my way a half an hour ago. Shes probably wondering where I am. JULIUS I think she can guess. Shes a big girl. Stay here. Me and you. Alone. In bed. MONA Im sorry, baby. Got to go. Girl stuff. Mona rises and gathers her scattered clothes as she finds them. Julius sits up on the edge of the bed. MONA (CONTD) Now get out of here so I can get ready. And call Michael and make nice. Julius stands up, embraces Mona, and kisses her deeply. JULIUS How can I ever say no to you? Julius leaves and Mona goes into the bathroom. As she is putting on her makeup, she notices the scarf is missing. Stopping immediately, she frantically searches all over the bathroom, to no avail. Leaving the bathroom, Mona searches around her house for the scarf before giving up. She is noticeably concerned.

52.

INT. MICHAELS HOUSE - AFTERNOON Michael is talking on the phone. He sits on his couch and appears happy. MICHAEL That will be fantastic. Yes, Ill be there tomorrow. Okay, I will. Thanks, Julius. I wont let you down. The doorbell rings. Michael stands to get it. MICHAEL (CONTD) Hey, my doors ringing, Julius. Ill see you tomorrow, bright and early. Alright, man. Thanks again. Bye. Michael hangs up and opens the door to reveal Sidney. They shake hands as Michael pulls him inside. MICHAEL (CONTD) Am I glad to see you, Sidney. Come on in. Sit down. Thanks for the advice. I owe you one. You were right. Mona talked to Julius and everything is going to be okay. SIDNEY Congratulations, man. I knew it was going to work out. That little Mona can sure work magic on that big lug. So, wheres the celebration? Sidney sits down on the couch. MICHAEL You got me. All I know is that Im sticking to water. Im going to learn from my mistakes. Mona and Julius are supposed to drop by tonight to hang out with me and Sarah. You and Emily should swing by and join us. The whole gang together. Only no Roger this time. The way it should be, you know? SIDNEY That actually sounds like fun. I wish we could, but Im actually going over to Emilys right now to have a little us time. I just wanted to stop by and see how things worked out with you. Im glad to hear that everything is getting back to normal. Im really happy for you.

53.

Sidney begins to stand up again, but Michael motions for him to remain seated. MICHAEL Well, the least you can do is join me for a toast before Sarah gets here. For everything youve done. SIDNEY I dont know, brother. You getting your job back is all the thanks I need. Besides, I thought it was just water for you from now on. MICHAEL Like you always say, one cant hurt. I insist, and you cant refuse. Ill set them up. Michael walks into the kitchen. He shouts back in to Sidney. MICHAEL (CONTD) Whiskey okay? Sidneys eyes scan the room as he speaks. SIDNEY Well, if you insist on insisting, then there is nothing better. Pour them up, sir. As Michael is in the kitchen pouring the shots, Sidney takes the scarf out of his pocket and tosses it underneath the front of the couch. He pushes it back with his foot until only a small corner of the scarf is visible. Michael returns with two shots of whiskey and hands one to Sidney. MICHAEL To good times, man. And good friends like you. Your kind is too rare in this bitch of a world. They drink. SIDNEY Thanks, man. Warm and refreshing. My favorite combination. I appreciate the hospitality, but Ive got to get going.

54.

Sidney hands the glass back to Michael. SIDNEY (CONTD) Give Julius and Mona my best when you see them. Sarah, too. MICHAEL I will. Sarahs coming over right now. Hopefully Ill have some time before Mona and Julius show up. You know, to work out some of the days tension, if you know what I mean. Sidney pauses at the doorway before he exits the house. SIDNEY Hey, the worlds a stressful place. We all need some kind of release. EXT. CAFE - EVENING Mona sits alone at a table. Subconsciously, she rips a napkin into ever smaller pieces. Emily approaches and sits down. She is flamboyantly dressed and wearing very dark sunglasses. EMILY Now, whats so important that you had to drag me out here at the crack of afternoon? Emily notices Mona is concerned with something. EMILY (CONTD) Whats wrong, sweetie? Mona breaks down and starts to cry. MONA Oh, Emily, you just wont believe it. Youve got to help me. EMILY Help you with what? MONA Its gone. My scarf is gone. Emily pauses to collect her thoughts before taking her glasses off. She decides to play dumb.

55.

EMILY Scarf? What scarf? Not the one Julius gave you? MONA Yes. Oh God, Emily, I cant find it anywhere and Julius will kill me if he finds out. He loves his grandmothers scarf more than anything in the world. If he finds out that its lost, theres no telling what hell do. Hes been so highstrung of late anyway that if he finds out, hed lose it. Hed go insane. Mona continues to tear up her napkin. Emily tosses her another one. EMILY Here. You could use a fresh one. Realizing what she has been doing, Mona blushes. Thank you. MONA

EMILY Well, lets think. Where could it be? Dont you normally keep it in your bathroom? MONA Thats just it. I never move it. I just dont know. I turned my house inside out and its just not there. EMILY Dont worry, Mona. Im sure it will turn up soon. Maybe Sarah took it. You never know. Mona slams her hands into the table. No, her you she MONA she knows better than that. Id kill if she so much as touched it. But, might be on the right track. Maybe knows something about it.

Emilys relief shines through her face. EMILY Oh, Im sure she probably does. Go talk to her. I wouldnt worry about it. Julius will never notice anyway.

56.

MONA No, Emily, I think he might. He can be pretty observant when it comes to these things. But Ill ask Sarah first. No point in pissing Julius off if I dont have to. Ill just go find her and ask. She said she was going to be at Michaels. Do you want to ride? EMILY Sure, Im up with nothing to do until I see Sidney later. Lets go. Mona and Emily climb into Monas car and drive away. INT. HOUSE OF COMMONS BAR - EVENING Sidney and Julius drink beer. Two filled shot glasses sit on the table between the two men. They are deep in discussion. JULIUS My temper almost got the best of me yesterday. Im glad you and Mona were there to straighten my head out. I almost lost control. SIDNEY Well, thank God you didnt. You were mad enough to kill somebody. Ive never seen you like that. You need to watch that, brother. Your temper is your Achilless heel. Sidney finishes his beer and slams the glass on the table. JULIUS I know. My temper has always been my biggest problem. Im always losing my cool over something silly. But Mona keeps me straight. Thank God I have her. If she didnt love me so much, I dont know what Id do. SIDNEY But she does. And now everythings cool with Michael. Everythings working out. All the bad water has flowed away and life is going back to normal.

57.

Sidney picks up one of the shot glasses, toasts Julius, and downs the liquor. SIDNEY (CONTD) Now you can focus on that wedding present you and Michael are working on. You are the king. Sheer genius. Julius is confused. JULIUS Wedding present? What wedding present? The only person that even knows Im proposing is you. Michael doesnt know dick about it. What are you talking about? SIDNEY Come on, Julius. Like I wouldnt find out. The copies of your scarf. I saw yours over at Michaels and he told me the whole thing. How youre putting them on the tables at the reception. What a idea! Pure genius. My hat is off to you, my friend. Juliuss confusion mixes with anger in his countenance. JULIUS Wait a second- you saw my grandmothers scarf at Michaels? Are you sure? SIDNEY Yeah, Im sure. Ive seen it about a thousand times. I do know what it looks like. JULIUS When was this? When did you see my scarf at Michaels? SIDNEY Earlier today. Hey, its no big deal. If you didnt want me in, thats cool. I have something else planned anyway. No worries. My lips are sealed. Trust me. Julius slams his fists into the table, knocking over the glasses. JULIUS That whore! She is fucking him!!

58.

SIDNEY What the hell are you talking about? Whos fucking who? JULIUS Michaels fucking my woman. I knew something was up. This proves it. Julius pounds his fists into the table again. JULIUS (CONTD) Son of a bitch! SIDNEY Settle down, brother. You mean that you didnt know Michael had your scarf? You know nothing about this? JULIUS Hell no! I would never even let that piece of shit so much as breathe on my grandmothers scarf, much less take it. Julius sits back down. He is shaking with fury. Seeing this reaction, the wheels of Sidneys mind spin. SIDNEY Listen, I know that there is a logical explanation for this. Lets go by Michaels now and ask him. Im sure he knows whats up. JULIUS Fuck that and fuck him! Why dont we go and I put my fist through the back of his skull instead? SIDNEY Whoa! Settle down. Remember the new Julius? The calm Julius? The Julius that doesnt jump to conclusions? Compose yourself, man. Lets head over to Michaels and hear what he has to say. Julius leans up. He pushes his finger into Sidneys chest. JULIUS Fine. Well do it your way. But whatever he says, it had better be good, or Im finishing it my way. Julius tosses a twenty dollar bill on the table.

59.

SIDNEY Trust me, brother, Im sure it will be. Julius storms out of the bar. Sidney finishes the last shot and smiles before following. INT. MICHAELS HOUSE - EVENING Michael and Sarah fondle each other on the couch. Their shirts are lying on the floor next to them. They grope each other and kiss in a passionate frenzy. The doorbell rings. SARAH Damn it! Always at the worst time. Oh well, fuck them. Sarah continues to rub Michaels chest. She begins to work on removing his pants. Michael stops her hands. MICHAEL What if its important? SARAH What if its not? Michael stares at Sarah. Sarah throws her hands into the air. SARAH (CONTD) Whatever. But remember where you left off. MICHAEL How could I forget? Ill see who it is. Sarah picks up her shirt and walks to a back room to clothe herself. Sarah slams the door behind her. The doorbell rings again. MICHAEL (CONTD) Im coming. Jesus. Michael stumbles around trying to dress himself. The doorbell rings again. MICHAEL (CONTD) God damn it, hold your horses! I said I was coming.

60.

Michael opens the door. Mona and Emily are outside. They take one look at Michael and Emily snickers. They peek into the house. EMILY Oops, I think we showed up at the wrong time. We can always come back if you two need a few more minutes to, you know, wrap things up, so to speak. MICHAEL Nonsense. I was... folding laundry. Sarah was just lending me a helping hand. The two women walk into the house. MONA I bet she was. This place looks real clean. EMILY Yeah. Spotless. Mona and Emily giggle to each other as all three sit down. Michael suppresses his embarrassment. MICHAEL So, to what do I owe this intrusion? I wasnt expecting anyone for a couple more hours at least. MONA Actually, Michael, I was wondering if youve seen something of mine? Like what? MICHAEL

MONA Like the scarf Julius gave me. I thought maybe you or Sarah might know where it is? MICHAEL Scarf? Oh, yeah, Juliuss old scarf. I havent seen it, though. Maybe Sarah has. Theres no telling with her. She should be back out here in a second. Michael buttons up his shirt as he makes his way toward the kitchen.

61.

MICHAEL (CONTD) In the mean time, can I get you ladies anything? EMILY Just water for me. MONA Im cool, thanks. The doorbell rings again before Michael can retrieve the drinks. He turns back around to answer. MICHAEL Wow. This is turning into a regular party. Michael opens the door. Julius storms past Michael and enters the room. Sidney follows. They both stand in front of the girls. JULIUS Well, well, well- Michael, Mona and Emily. Look, Sidney, the gangs all here. Hello, Mona. I thought I might find you here. MONA What brings you over here so early, baby? Julius glances over to Sidney and grins. JULIUS Now that is a funny story. Sidney and I were having a couple of friendly drinks, just talking about random bullshit, and the topic of my grandmothers scarf comes up. So the more we talk, the more I realize that I dont remember seeing it recently. Mona flashes a look at Emily as Julius continues. JULIUS (CONTD) You do still have it, dont you, dear? I didnt see it in your bathroom. You still have it, dont you, Mona? Mona looks at Julius nervously and then begins to glance around the room. Sidney catches Emilys attention and motions for her to say nothing.

62.

As the tension thickens, Sarah enters. She has Juliuss scarf tied in her hair. SARAH I thought I heard voices. Hey, Julius. Sarah bounces over and hugs Julius. As she does, he looks down and notices his grandmothers scarf tied in her hair. JULIUS What the fuck is this? What are you wearing? Where did you get this? Julius grabs Sarahs hair and rips the scarf out with one powerful pull. Sarah recoils in pain. SARAH Ouch! Youre hurting me! Let go!! JULIUS WHERE?!? Where did you get this, you little bitch? Julius begins to shake Sarah violently. Michael jumps up to her aid. MICHAEL Let her go, man! Michael grabs Julius, who promptly punches Michael to the side of the head, knocking him to the floor and drawing blood. Sarah falls to the ground over him. Julius stands over them both with the scarf in his hand. Sidney physically places himself between Julius and Sarah. Julius turns and shakes his fist at Mona. JULIUS You gave this to him? You gave my scarf to this weak, back-stabbing cocksucker? My scarf! You lying bitch! Julius slaps Mona. JULIUS (CONTD) Ill kill you! Nobody does this to me. Nobody! Emily screams and runs to Mona to protect her. Sidney grabs Julius and forces him away from the women.

63.

SIDNEY Not like this, man. Not like this. Lets go. Come on. Sidney pushes Julius out the front door much against his will. JULIUS Ill see you later, bitch! And your little boyfriend is a fucking dead man! Do you hear me, Michael? Youre dead! SIDNEY (from outside) Come on, Emily. Im taking you home. Now! EMILY I had better go. Oh, God. Im so sorry. Emily runs outside to join the sound of Julius and Sidney yelling at each other. The door shuts, silencing the commotion. Mona goes over to Michael, who appears to be coming around. MICHAEL What was that about? Jesus Christ, that lunatic almost killed me. He touches the side of his head. His fingertips are stained with blood. MICHAEL (CONTD) Fuck, Im bleeding. He split my head open. MONA Im sorry, Michael. This is all my fault. It was my scarf. I just dont know. Where did you find it, Sarah? SARAH It was here over on the floor by the couch. I didnt think it was yours. I damn sure didnt know it was so important to your fucked up boyfriend. Michael sits up with much assistance from Mona and Sarah. MICHAEL How did your scarf get over here anyway?

64.

MONA Its all my fault. I must have had it with me the night at the bar somehow. I guess I dropped it here when I took you home. I dont remember moving it, much less taking it with me. But I must have. Oh God, its all my fault. SARAH Stop saying that. It is most certainly not your fault. Its Juliuss fault. He had no right to do what he did. You should never see him again. Hes an asshole, Mona. Look what he did to Michaels face. MONA No, it is my fault. Its all my fault. And Ive got to fix it. Ive got to talk to Julius. Right now. Mona jumps up, grabs her purse, and runs out the door. Mona! SARAH

MICHAEL Save your breath. Shes gone. Michael and Sarah move up to the couch. SARAH How do you feel? Are you sure that big gorilla didnt hurt you? MICHAEL Im just a little dazed. Shit, that guy can punch hard. Poor baby. SARAH

Sarah begins to rub Michaels chest. SARAH (CONTD) I bet I can make you feel better. MICHAEL Oh yeah? Do you remember where we left off? SARAH No, but I know where to start again.

65.

EXT. JULIUSS HOME - NIGHT A deep, guttural howl explodes from inside the house. INT. JULIUSS HOUSE - CONTINUOUS Sidney tries to calm down a very heated Julius, who is pacing back and forth across the room. SIDNEY Take it easy for a minute, Julius. There has got to be a logical explanation for this. Mona cant be screwing Michael. Shes never with him. She loves you. It doesnt make any sense. JULIUS No, they get their time alone. Maybe after work, on her way home, whenever. I cant believe that I was so blind, so fucking stupid. SIDNEY But when did he take the scarf? I mean, he would have had to have done it recently. You wouldve noticed if it had been gone long, right? JULIUS Damn straight. I look at it every time Im over at Monas. SIDNEY See, and you were with her every place she went. I bet she hasnt been out of your sight other than when she was with Emily since we were all together at the bar. I dont see when it could have happened. A light switches on in Juliuss mind, stopping him in his tracks. JULIUS The bar! Motherfucker! Thats it. Mona left with Michael. Of course, it all makes sense now. She must have left it over at his house when she took him home. Thats why shes been acting strange today. You know, brother, I bet the whole fight was staged. Michael being so drunk; the whole fucking night was one big act! Everybody is in on it. Mona, Michael... (MORE)

66. JULIUS (CONT'D) maybe even Emily. Or Sarah. Who knows anymore?

SIDNEY Hey now, you cant jump to conclusions like that. First, it doesnt make sense. All of our friends cant be against you. It cant be that cut-and-dry. JULIUS But it is, Sidney. And thats the beautiful thing. All along, youve tried to explain it to me. You said it was okay. You said that there was nothing to worry about. Well, you were wrong, brother. Me and you- we were blind together. Blind fools. Shaking his head, Sidney sits back against the couch. SIDNEY Well, just say we were. Lets say youre right and everyone is fucking with our heads. What do we do about it? I mean, you just told me if I should even trust my own girlfriend. JULIUS You cant. Dont you see? You cant trust any of them anymore. Neither can I. A cold, calculated chill flows over Juliuss carefully chosen words. JULIUS (CONTD) Sidney, Im looking at the only man I can trust. Julius and Sidney lock their eyes on each others. SIDNEY I guess so am I. Well, what are we going to do? JULIUS She broke my heart, Sidney. I loved her and she used me like a doll. A little, stupid fuck doll. You know, you wait your whole life to meet that special somebody and when you do, you know it. I knew it the second I looked in Monas eyes. And once you get her, you do everything you can to keep her. You love her. You cherish her. (MORE)

67. JULIUS (CONT'D) You promise yourself that youll never do anything stupid; that youll never let her go. And then she pulls something like this and you wonder why. Why the hell do we put ourselves through all the shit?

SIDNEY The power of pussy. Plain and simple. If it wasnt for the unending pursuit of pussy, man would still be living in caves. Julius sits back down on the couch. JULIUS No, its not that simple. Not at all. No one can answer the question. No one ever could. Julius pounds his fist into his other hand. JULIUS (CONTD) My life may be over, but Ill have my vengeance first. Im going to kill him, Sidney. Im going to kill them all. SIDNEY Whoa...you need to think about what you are saying. Lets get back to reality. Michael is scared shitless of you right now. If you so much as come within fifty feet of him, hell have the cops on you. You dont want to go to prison, Julius. Thats just stupid. Theres got to be a better way. Like what? JULIUS

Sidney pauses and draws a deep breath into his lungs. SIDNEY I never mentioned this to you before because I didnt think it mattered. Roger talks to me about Mona. He says that he wants you two broken up so he can have her. The high school crush that never dissipated. I thought it was always bullshit, you know. But now Im not sure. JULIUS You mean Rogers in on it, too?

68.

SIDNEY If youre right, then theyre all against us. Every one of them. Making us look like fools. JULIUS I am right, Sidney. They have to pay for their sins. Im going to wash my hands in their blood. SIDNEY No, my friend, not you. Youll never get close to them. But I can. They dont know that I know a god damn thing about this. And we have to keep it that way. Julius is intrigued. JULIUS What do you have in mind? SIDNEY I have an idea. A way youll get your vengeance and still look as innocent as a virgin. Stay away tonight. Get a hotel room and Ill make up an excuse when I see anyone. JULIUS Okay...but dont go to Monas. Shes the whore behind all this. Shes mine, understand? Ill deal with her myself, in my own way. SIDNEY Alright, but dont do anything before I come get you. This is serious business, Julius. We cant make any mistakes. No fucking around. JULIUS No fucking around. Follow me. Sidney follows Julius into the kitchen. Julius pours two shots and hands one to Sidney. They hold their glasses up to one another. Julius and Sidney raise their glasses. SIDNEY We still dont have to do this. We can still just walk away.

69.

JULIUS God forgives. I do not. They toast, slam down the glasses, and stare at each other. INT. SIDNEYS CAR - NIGHT Sidney speaks to Roger over the phone as he drives. SIDNEY Thats right. Of course hes pissed. He never wants to see her again. Youre golden. ROGER (O.S.) So, you think Im finally in? SIDNEY Sure. Monas going to be ripe on the rebound. Just one problem, though. Michaels going to be on her like stink on shit. ROGER (O.S.) I told you- Ill take care of that bastard myself. Im ready, Sidney. Fuck him and anyone else that gets in my way. SIDNEY Settle down, man. I know. ROGER (O.S.) Ill do it, Sidney. For her, Ill do anything. Anything. SIDNEY I know you will. Meet me at Michaels. INT. MONAS FATHERS HOUSE - NIGHT JIM, Mona and Sarahs father, reclines in a plush, leather Laz-E-Boy, watching television. A near-empty bottle of whiskey dangles from his grip. The doorbell rings. Jim shouts. Who is it? JIM

No one responds. The doorbell rings again.

70.

Damn it.

JIM (CONTD)

Jim gathers himself together, then goes to answer the door. He opens the door. Sidney enters, carrying his briefcase. SIDNEY Hey, Jim. Hows it going? Shocked, Jim watches Sidney walk brashly into his house. SIDNEY (CONTD) You might want to shut the door there. No point wasting your air conditioning. Jim shuts the door. He follows Sidney, who has walked into the living room. JIM Its late. Whats going on, Sidney? SIDNEY Ill take a double bourbon. Straight- no ice. What? JIM

SIDNEY You do have bourbon here, right, Jim? I think its only friendly to offer me a little. JIM Oh, yeah, sure. Jim moves over to a small bar area and prepares Sidneys drink. Sidney examines several framed pictures of Jims daughters when they were younger. Jim brings Sidney his drink. Here you go. JIM (CONTD)

Sidney takes the drink, but does not look at Jim.

71.

SIDNEY You know, Ive never really looked at these before. Shes very pretty. Jim points at a picture in front of Sidney. JIM Thats Sarah when she was eight. She was first runner-up in that beauty contest. She should of won, but I guess thats what every dad says. Yeah. SIDNEY

Sidney sets the drink down on the mantle, then turns to Jim. SIDNEY (CONTD) Sit down, Jim. Jim sits down in his chair. Sidney slowly walks towards him. JIM Whats going on, Sidney? SIDNEY Ive always known what you did, Jim. I know what you did to your daughter. Late at night. When no one was around. Fear drives the alcohol from Jims mind. JIM What the fuck are you talking about? I never... In the blink of an eye, Sidney fires a kick into Jims sternum, driving the air out of his body and forcing him to the ground. Sidney quickly takes his gun out of his briefcase. He straddles the man and presses the barrel into Jims forehead. Jim tries to scream, but his breath is short and labored due to Sidneys kick. JIM (CONTD) No... dont...I... I...

72.

SIDNEY Dont try to explain. I dont want to know why. Im not here to judge you. Im here to punish you. Sidney cocks the gun. Beg me, Jim. SIDNEY (CONTD)

JIM Please... it was one time. I was drunk. I didnt mean to. SIDNEY You violated your own daughter. On the night she finished second in that beauty contest. Sidney pushes the gun into Jims head even harder. Big mistake. SIDNEY (CONTD)

Tears flow from Jims eyes. He is helpless under Sidneys weight. SIDNEY (CONTD) I am going kill you now. Not just because its the right thing to do, Jim. Oh, no. Im going to do it because I want to watch you die. Using his free hand, Sidney retrieves the drink Jim made for him. Cheers. SIDNEY (CONTD)

Sidney takes a sip of the whiskey. SIDNEY (CONTD) Now, thats the good stuff. He smiles at Jim and pulls the trigger. Sidney stands and uses Jims shirt to wipe the gun clean. He puts the gun back into the briefcase and pulls out his journal. Flipping to the back, Sidney talks to himself as he writes.

73.

SIDNEY (CONTD) Drunken pedophile. Now thats a great one. Finishing, Sidney returns the journal to his briefcase and calmly walks out of the house. INT. MICHAELS HOUSE - NIGHT Sidney sits with Michael on a couch. Michael is visibly upset. He rests his head in his hands as he babbles. MICHAEL Oh God, how did this happen? How? How? SIDNEY Relax, man. You know how Julius is. Let him blow off his steam tonight. Things will be better in the morning. Itll all be back to normal. Youll see. Michael pulls his head up. MICHAEL I dont even know what happened tonight! I didnt even know about that fucking handkerchief. Scarf. SIDNEY

MICHAEL Whatever. It doesnt matter. serious shit, Sidney. Julius kill me. Not metaphorically. symbolically. He is going to Period.

This is is going to Not kill me.

Sidney pats Michael on the back in an attempt to comfort him. SIDNEY No he wont. Its not like hes some homicidal maniac. Hes a rational human being deep down inside, just like the rest of us. Speaking of the rest of us, wheres Sarah? I thought shed be here. MICHAEL I told her to follow Mona and make sure she gets home alright. (MORE)

74. MICHAEL (CONT'D) I tell you, Mona sure seemed a little off when she left here, if you know what I mean. I shouldnt have let her go. No telling what a woman in that state of mind will do.

SIDNEY Man, dont even talk like that. Everything will be fine. As soon as Roger gets here, well go over and talk to her. Ill even swing by and pick up Emily. Well all be together and we can talk all this shit out like rational people. Michael jumps to his feet. MICHAEL Whoa- Rogers coming here? Oh man, I havent seen him since...well, since I jumped him. What kind of mood is he in? SIDNEY Dont worry about Roger, Michael. Thats water under the bridge. We all have bigger problems to deal with now. The doorbell rings. Sidney stands to get it. SIDNEY (CONTD) Thats him now. You just sit here and Ill make us all some drinks before we head out. Sidney opens the door. Roger comes in. His eyes dart wildly around the room. His teeth audibly grind back and forth. One stern look from Sidney calms Roger down instantly. SIDNEY (CONTD) Come on in, Roger. Im just going to make a couple drinks. Sit down and relax. Sidney disappears into the kitchen. Roger goes over to greet Michael. Michael is relieved to see his new guest. MICHAEL Roger, its good to see you, man. I was afraid that after the other night, youd never speak to me again. No hard feelings, right?

75.

Michael extends his hand in friendship. Roger smiles at this peace offering. ROGER Hard feelings? You stupid bastard. Roger reaches behind his back and pulls out a pistol. Seeing this, Michael grabs Rogers hand and a struggle commences. They roll around fighting until a gunshot is heard. Michael leaps to his feet, holding the pistol in his hand. Roger is lying on the ground. Blood flows from his abdomen. He can only stammer in disbelief. ROGER (CONTD) You shot me...fuck, you shot me. Sidney calmly walks in and stares at the scene before him. Michael turns to Sidney. He drops the gun in shock. MICHAEL I didnt mean to. I, mean...Sidney, he tried to kill me. It was me or him. I didnt mean to do it. Oh, God! Youve got to believe me. SIDNEY I know, Michael. It was an accident. Relax. Dont worry. Besides, I knew he wouldnt get it right. Sidney pulls a large KITCHEN KNIFE from behind his back and stabs Michael through the chest. Michael falls and Sidney pounces on him, holds back his head and exposes his throat. SIDNEY (CONTD) If you want something done right... Sidney slashes Michael throat open. SIDNEY (CONTD) You have to do it yourself. Michaels lifeless body lays on the floor.

76.

Sidney moves next to the bleeding Roger, who is coldwhite from shock and blood loss. ROGER Oh God, he shot me, Sidney. He shot me. Im dying. Oh man, this hurts. It hurts so bad. Sidney picks up the gun and crouches in front of Roger. SIDNEY Really? And whoever thought a bullet through your gut would cause pain? Sidney pulls Rogers shirt back, exposing the bullets entry wound. Roger mutters through the shock. ROGER Not like this. Not without her. I dont want to die, Sidney. I want Mona. I want to live. Sidney grins, then shoves his finger into the bloody hole. Rogers screams pierce the air, much to Sidneys delight. SIDNEY You want to live? Well, how do I put this? Uh...no. Aiming the gun, Sidney fires a shot between Rogers eyes. The back of Rogers head explodes. Again, Sidney takes his journal out from behind his back and writes. SIDNEY (CONTD) Getting so close. INT. EMILYS HOUSE - NIGHT Emilys house is a mess. Clothing, dishes, and trash lie scattered on the floor. Emily paces chaotically around the room. The door opens. She rushes to it as Sidney enters, briefcase in hand. She throws herself into his arms. EMILY Where the hell have you been? Its been hours! (MORE)

77. EMILY (CONT'D) How could you just leave me here alone? Hows Julius? What happened? Jesus, whats going on?

Sidney walks past Emily. SIDNEY Julius is fine. I had some business to take care of at Michaels. No big deal. Sidney sits down and sets the briefcase next to him. Emily continues to pace in near hysterics. EMILY What happened? Jesus, I was so upset. Mona was crying when we left and I didnt know what to do. I tried calling her after you abandoned me here and nobody answered. I must have done half an eight ball. Im so scared. SIDNEY Relax. Its all good. Julius is downtown blowing off steam and Michael told me Mona was going home. Everything is alright. EMILY What the fuck does that mean? No, its not all good! None of this makes any sense. How did Sarah get hold of that scarf? I gave it to you. What the fuck is happening? Emily notices blood on Sidneys clothing. EMILY (CONTD) What the fuck is this? Are you okay? What happened? Whats going on? Did you get into an accident? SIDNEY Forget it. I need a drink of water. Sidney walks out of the room. Emily, looking at the briefcase, sits down and opens it. Inside, she sees the gun and Sidneys journal. She opens the journal and begins to read. With each page she turns, she flips faster and faster.

78.

Sidney returns carrying a glass of water. He sees Emily with his journal, but does not appeared alarmed. EMILY You did it. All of them. You...you...killed all these people. Sidney sips his water. SIDNEY With pleasure. But it is still a work in progress. EMILY Do you have a page in here with my name on it? SIDNEY A special one. For my special girl. Sidney slaps Emily across the face, driving her to the ground. EMILY You bastard! You never hit me! Never!! Emily kicks Sidney in the groin, something he was not expecting. He falls to the ground in incredible pain as Emily stands back up. SIDNEY You bitch! Ill kill you! You fucking bitch! As Sidney struggles to rise, Emily grabs a nearby lamp. EMILY Im going to find Mona and tell her what kind of a lying, murdering fuck you are! I hope you die, you son of a bitch!! Emily hits Sidney over the head with the lamp. EMILY (CONTD) You fucking psychopath. Grabbing the journal, Emily races out of the house, leaving Sidneys motionless body on the ground.

79.

INT. MONAS BEDROOM - NIGHT Thin slivers of moonlight mix with the glow of a single lamp in the corner. Mona and Sarah sit on the bed, holding each other. Mona is sobbing and crying. MONA I never cheated on him, Sarah. I never would. I love him so much. But he doesnt understand that. Hell never forgive me. Not in a million years. Its over. Its all over. SARAH Dont say that, Mona. Remember- true love will prevail. MONA I wish that was true. Sarah stands up and draws Monas head into her body, comforting her sister. SARAH It is. Youll see. Everything will be perfect in the morning. Everything will be the way it should. I promise. MONA I pray youre right, little sister. SARAH I know I am. Now Ill be right back. Im going to run to that 24/7 store. We need ice cream and cheap wine to make it through tonight. MONA You always brighten me up. Mona looks up at Sarah and smiles through her tears. MONA (CONTD) My little sister. SARAH Dont worry. Its like Mom would sayits always darkest before the dawn. And get some rest and Ill be back before you know it, okay?

80.

MONA Brownie honor. Sarah kisses Mona on the head and leaves the room. Mona stands to turn on the radio. She dims the lights, lies back in the bed, and falls asleep. Time passes. The door to the bedroom opens. Julius walks around the bed to Mona and begins to stroke her hair. Monas eyes stay closed. Julius begins to cry. JULIUS So soft...so soft. Gossamer strands. And the face of an angel. I promise you, Mona. No blood- no scars. Not one blemish on your perfect skin. I could never do that to you. God wont forgive me of that sin. How could you do this, my love? How could you force my hand? Mona starts to awaken. MONA Huh... is that you, Julius? Mona pulls herself into Julius tightly. MONA (CONTD) I thought you were gone forever. JULIUS No, Im here. Im here, my love. God, how I loved you. MONA I love you, too. JULIUS I love you is nothing but eight letters. Like bullshit. Mona looks up at Julius. MONA How can you say that, Julius? I do love you. I always have. I always will. JULIUS Then why did you give away my scarf? And to Michael?

81.

MONA Julius, I didnt. I cant explain what happened, but I... Julius covers Monas mouth. JULIUS Shh...I said that it was okay. I loved you, Mona. Too much to let you go. Sidney told me to wait, but this pain has to end. I cant take it anymore. Did you pray tonight, Mona? Mona twists her head free. MONA What do you mean, Julius? Did I pray? What the hell does that mean? JULIUS Pray now, my love. Pray for forgiveness. God cant refuse his angels. Just ask him, Mona. MONA Julius, youre scaring me. In one swift motion, Julius jumps on top of Mona, pinning her down on the bed. JULIUS Pray for your forgiveness! For the love of God, pray now! Mona cries out. MONA Julius, Im sorry. Whatever sin I committed, Im sorry. Whatever God is listening knows Im sorry. Dont hurt me, Julius. Please. I love you. JULIUS Ill never love anyone like you, Mona. Just remember that I love you. I will always love you. Julius moves his hands to Monas throat. MONA Julius, no! Stop! He begins to strangle her.

82.

Monas cries are cut off by the pressure of Julius hands on her throat. Julius continually whispers I loved you in her ear until she stops moving. He lets go and looks at Monas limp body. JULIUS I loved you. I loved you so much. Julius leans down and kisses Mona just as the bedroom door swings open. Emily bursts in and, seeing the scene, pulls Julius backwards, off of Mona. EMILY Get off of her, you crazy son of a bitch! Emily and Julius fall to the floor. Julius pushes her away and stands. Mona remains motionless on the bed. JULIUS No one cheats on me! No one! This is what I had to do. Shes going to heaven. The way an angel should. Shes pure now. Purged from her and Michaels sins. Forgiven from what shes done. EMILY She didnt do anything, you dumb bastard! It was Sidney! He did it all!! Julius grabs Emily and shakes her. JULIUS What the fuck are you talking about? EMILY Sidney planted the scarf at Michaels. He was behind everything. I know...I gave it to him. The blood rushes from Juliuss face. JULIUS No, youre lying. Sidneys my friend. Hes my only friend. Emily tosses Sidneys journal to Julius. EMILY No, hes not. He killed him, Julius. Sidney killed Michael tonight. He killed Roger, too. (MORE)

83. EMILY (CONT'D) Hes killed dozens and dozens of people. He made you kill Mona. Its all his fault.

Tears stream down Emilys face. EMILY (CONTD) Mona was innocent. She always was. Julius reads through the journal until he cant take it anymore. He stands motionless before the wave of his guilt crashes over him. JULIUS No.. No.. No.. NO! What have I done? NO!! Julius drops the journal and falls at the end of the bed by Mona, clutching her feet in desperation. JULIUS (CONTD) Oh God... God, Im sorry. No,no,no. Mona...MONA!! As Julius cries, Emily puts her arm around him. The two weep together. EMILY Im sorry, Julius. It was Sidney. It was him all along. Im sorry. Oh, God help us. What have we done, Julius? What have we done? Unseen by Emily and Julius, Sidney is standing in the doorway of the bedroom. He watches, grinning as he holds his gun. SIDNEY By the look of things, Id say youve done a pretty good job. Death with no blood. Hmm... not really my style, but effective. Wow, Julius, I wasnt sure if you had it in you. Julius and Emily spin around and stare down the barrel of the gun. SIDNEY (CONT'D) Both of you stand up. Slowly. Julius and Emily slowly stand up.

84.

SIDNEY (CONTD) Dont move. Remember, Julius, no heroes. Ive already killed three people tonight. Three more in here wont hurt. Sidney sees Mona lying on the bed and giggles. SIDNEY (CONTD) Oops, I mean two. You beat me to that whore, didnt you? Fine job. I really am impressed, Julius. Tell me- didnt it feel good? Its almost like coming, isnt it? Like the first time you got laid. JULIUS You filthy son of a bitch. Why the fuck did you do this? Why? Sidney smiles. SIDNEY Why? Why, indeed? You know, you always hear people always ask that, like in the movies, you know? And you know what Ive always thought? Why not? I like to kill. Hell, I fucking love it. I love to do it. I love to write about it. You see, Julius, Im the smart one. I kill and kill and kill and Im always going to get away. Because Im smarter than the rest of you. See- this isnt the movies. Theres no Superman to save you and nobodys riding off into the sunset on a white horse! I win. You lose. Thats life. EMILY You piece of shit- youre insane. You know that? Youre completely fucking insane. SIDNEY No shit, Sherlock. If you kept the straw out of your nose for five minutes, you might have figured it out a long time ago. Heres for stealing my journal before I was done, bitch! Sidney shoots Emily in the face, splattering her blood and brains across the wall. Julius jumps Sidney, knocking the gun from his hand.

85.

They fight. Julius finally overpowers Sidney and takes the gun. JULIUS Die, you motherfucker! Julius fires a shot that hits Sidneys midsection. Sidney crashes into the doorway and falls motionless onto the floor. Julius stands up. He looks down at Sidneys body and howls. SIDNEY!! JULIUS (CONTD)

Julius stumbles back, dropping the gun, and kneels next to Mona. He holds her hand and begins to wail. JULIUS (CONT'D) What have I done? What have I done? Forgive me, Mona. Slowly, Monas hand twitches and her eyes open. Julius looks up and sees her eyes looking back at him. JULIUS (CONTD) Mona? Mona? Youre alive. Oh God, thank you. Thank you. I thought Id lost you. I thought you were dead. Im so sorry. But its all better now, baby. Everythings going to be okay. You hear that? Everythings going to be just fine. Mona raises her head. From he vantage point, she sees Sidney pulling himself up against the door frame. His mind fixated on Mona, Julius does not notice his adversary rising. Mona attempts to warn Julius, but she is unable to speak due to her near-strangulation. MONA Mmmmm...Mmmmm!!! Sidney silently picks the gun up from the ground. JULIUS I know. I know, baby. Its okay now. No one will ever hurt you again. I promise.

86.

As Julius says,I promise, Sidney pushes the gun into the back his head. SIDNEY I said I win. Sidney fires two quick shots into the back of Juliuss head. Blood paints Monas paralyzed face as her lovers body falls to the floor. Mona tries to scream but is unable. Sidney straddles Mona on the bed, immobilizing her. SIDNEY (CONTD) What? I couldnt understand that, Mona. Whats the matter? Throat still hurt? Sidney pushes and twists the gun into Monas neck, choking her further. SIDNEY (CONTD) Lets think. What could be the cause of your unfortunate throat pain? My gun? No, too obvious. Julius choking you? Possible. But I think you just sucked too much cock. That will teach you. Ah Mona, I really thought he killed you. Now that would have been a shame. Mona tries to struggle, but Sidney holds her firm. SIDNEY (CONTD) No, no, you stay right here. You and me are going to stay right here and wait. This night isnt over yet. Sidney pushes his face against Mona. SIDNEY (CONTD) God, you smell so good. The smell of fear. I swear, if I could bottle this shit, Id be a millionaire overnight. It makes me so hot. Does it work for you? Are you getting hot, Mona? Does fear and death turn you on? Do they? Huh? Still not talking? Oh well, I guess Ill just have to check. Sidney thrusts his hand down the front of Monas pants. She whimpers as tears flow down her face. Sidney removes his hand and smells his fingertips.

87.

SIDNEY (CONTD) Oh yes, you are digging this. Youre the one, Mona. The sweetest one of them all. Behind Sidney, Sarah walks in holding a plastic bag. She examines the scene, but is unshaken by the horror. SARAH What the fuck is this? Sidney, you finished them all already? SIDNEY Not all, baby. Not all. Sarah drops the bag, walks over, and plops down on the bed next to Sidney. Mona cannot comprehend what is happening around her or why her sister does not help. SARAH You said I could kill Julius. I was supposed to do it. He was supposed to be my first. Like we always talked about. SIDNEY Plans change. But I did leave you one. Sarah looks down at her helpless sister. SARAH No way. No fucking way. SIDNEY Come on. Nothings sweeter than family. SARAH I cant. I just cant. Sarah turns to walk away. Sidney grabs her from behind. SIDNEY Never leave loose ends. Thats the first thing I told you. SARAH I cant kill my own sister. Fine. SIDNEY

Sidney turns and shoots Mona. Sarah dives over to her.

88.

Mona! Sidney shakes his head.

SARAH

SIDNEY I really thought you had what it took, kid. Tears stream from Sarahs eyes. SARAH I do. I can do it. Just give me one more chance. Sidney raises the barrel of his gun. SIDNEY No loose ends. He shoots Sarah, who lands next to her sister on the bed. Sidney picks up his journal and exits the bedroom. INT. MONAS HOUSE - CONTINUOUS Sidney sits down on the couch and writes in his journal. He turns page after page, writing of the nights events on each one. When he is finished, he looks at the journal. SIDNEY It still doesnt feel right. Sidney stares and stares at the journal. Finally, he opens it to the very last page and writes. INSERT - THE JOURNAL 4/25/12 - Serial killer. Completed plan perfectly. Finished every desired journal entry. Single gunshot through the mouth exiting top of skull. Suicide. Sidney closes the journal and sets it on the couch next to him. He picks up his gun, places the barrel into his mouth and smiles. FADE OUT.

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