Ashley and her three friends (Cheri, Angela and Megan) are sitting on several chairs and listening and shouting along to one of the most popular hits on the stereo.
EVERYONE
Go! Go! Go! Go! Go! Go!
Go shorty! It’s your birthday!
We’re gonna party like it’s your birthday!
We’re gonna sip Bacardi like it’s your birthday!
And you know we don’t give a what? It’s not your birthday!
You can find me in the club
Bottle full of bub
Mama, got what ya need…
The girls laugh as 50 Cent’s "In The Club" continues in the background.
ASHLEY
How many times do we have to hear this?
CHERI
What else is there?
MEGAN
Isn’t it almost bedtime?
ASHLEY
Not for me.
(The three friends give Ashley a look)
Not…if my parents catch me.
MEGAN
Why give your parents the chance to catch us?
CHERI
Will you please chill? We’re not gonna get caught.
ANGELA
Hey! Let’s check out "Spider-Man"!
ASHLEY
For the fourth time?
She cuts off the stereo.
MEGAN
We didn’t see the behind the scenes footage yet.
CHERI
I’m sick of seeing that movie. Let’s see something else.
MEGAN
(Shrugs)
What is there to see?
ASHLEY
What is there to see?
Ashley moves over and points to the massive videotape and DVD collection standing [from floor to ceiling] at the opposite wall.
ASHLEY
Do you see all this stuff we got here?
ANGELA
(Skeptical)
All right, but I’m telling you. We’ll be wasting our time trying to find anything better than Spidey.
ASHLEY
(Gives her a weary look)
Angie, I’ll take my chances.
Ashley walks closer to the shelves and starts searching for another movie.
CHERI
How ‘bout that one!
ASHLEY
(Still facing the shelves)
Which one?
MEGAN
That one, over there
(waves her hand to the right)
To the right.
ASHLEY
It would be nice if you guys can tell me the name of the movie. It’ll make things much easier.
CHERI
It’s that one. The one you’re pointing to.
Ashley picks up a tape and raises it for the girls to see.
MEGAN
"Jerry Maguire"?
ANGELA
Show me the barf bag.
ASHLEY
C’mon. I don’t have all night.
(Shoves the tape back in its space on the shelf)
I’d like to get this done before Mommy comes in and grounds me for another month.
MEGAN
What if your dad comes in?
ASHLEY
(Dismisses the thought with her hand)
I know how to handle Daddy.
CHERI
What about "Airplane"?
MEGAN
Yeah! That’s a great movie!
ASHLEY
I haven’t seen that for a while.
She searches for the tape. It takes a few seconds to see it’s on the top shelf – almost touches the ceiling; she then mutters to herself:
ASHLEY
The things I do for these guys.
Ashley takes a deep breath and climbs to the top shelf.
CHERI
Careful, Ash.
ASHLEY
(She continues climbing)
I wouldn’t have to if you’d pick a different movie.
MEGAN
Ashley, come down. We can pick another –
ASHLEY
I’m not climbing this thing in vain. Who knows? This could be my training for climbing Mt. Everest.
She continues until –
ANGELA
Ashley! Watch out!
Too late. Ashley’s feet give way and she tumbles onto the plush beige carpet. A few videotapes tumble along with her. Her friends rush to Ashley.
MEGAN
You okay?
ASHLEY
Yeah, I love the feeling of sharp pain in my hip.
Ashley rubs her left hip and her upper thigh.
ANGELA
Forget it. Just turn on the Cartoon Network.
Ashley sits up gingerly. She turns to her left and notices something unfamiliar.
ASHLEY
Where did this come from?
CHERI
Ash, what is it?
ASHLEY
(Picks up one of the tapes on the carpet; looks at it strangely)
October 6th …? KTLA…? 1990…? What is this? What’s it doing here?
MEGAN
Maybe it’s an interview your parents had after they solved a case.
ASHLEY
I’ve seen all their interviews. I’ve never seen this.
CHERI
Well, let’s see it!
ANGELA
Yeah!
ASHLEY
Can somebody say "duh"?
Ashley knocks herself lightly on her head and laughs. She stands to her feet, slowly, and crosses over to the VCR. She reaches for the remote and turns on the High Definition TV embedded in the wall facing the tape shelves. She pops the tape in the VCR, joins her friends on the sofa, and presses "Play" on the remote. A second later, all the girls have shocked looks on their faces.
VOICE ON TAPE (O.S.)
Okay, how is this…? Can you see everything, Henry? Are you getting a clear view of the reception behind us…?
CHERI
(Whispers in disbelief)
Oh my God.
VOICE ON TAPE (O.S.)
All right… how about now…? Is it good?
ASHLEY
Why is Mommy holding a microphone?
TV screen. We see a younger Maddie fluffing her hair, clearing her throat and straightening her frilly lavender dress.
ASHLEY
What is Mommy doing?
Maddie stands beside an excited thirtysomething bride.
MADDIE
(Half whispers to Woman)
Are you ready?
WOMAN
(Whispers back)
After what we’ve been though, you bet.
MADDIE
Henry, are we ready?
HENRY (O.S.)
Ready when you are, Maddie.
MADDIE
Okay, three… two… one… I’m at a wedding reception where this reporter just served as maid of honor to this happy bride. One of the fringe benefits for helping solve her case with –
VOICE (O.S.)
What is going on down… oh my goodness…
The girls turn their heads to see a surprised Maddie looking at herself on the TV screen.
ASHLEY
Mommy, why are you interviewing that woman?
CHERI
Isn’t it obvious? She was working undercover. Didn’t you hear her say she solved a case? Right, Miss Hayes?
MEGAN
(to Cheri)
I thought she’s Mrs. Addison.
MADDIE
(Playfully)
Same difference.
ASHLEY
Well? Were you working undercover or what?
MADDIE
Yes… and no.
ASHLEY
(Still Confused)
And this means…
MADDIE
It means yes, I was on a case and no, I wasn’t undercover.
The girls turn to each other and share confused looks then turn their attention back to Maddie.
MADDIE
What I mean is, there was a time… a period… an awkward period where I wasn’t a detective.
ASHLEY
Yeah, I know that. I told them about your modeling days.
MADDIE
I was also a television reporter.
MEGAN
(Blown away)
No way!
ASHLEY
A TV reporter? When?
MADDIE
When your father and I closed Blue Moon Investigations back in 1989.
ASHLEY
Really? What made you go into television?
MADDIE
Stacey Williamson suggested it.
ANGELA
(Eyes light up)
Isn’t she –
MADDIE
Yup, one of the anchors of the 6 o’clock news.
ANGELA
Wow.
MADDIE
I thought she was crazy. I didn’t know anything about TV reporting.
ASHLEY
Yeah, but you looked into a camera before.
MADDIE
Stared into a camera is more like it. TV is different than a photo shoot. KTLA took me only ‘cause they were desperate to have an investigative reporter. Stacey gave them the whole bit about my experience as a private eye and they gave me a shot.
ASHLEY
And where was Daddy?
MADDIE
Hmm?
ASHLEY
Where was Daddy? Was he there with you?
MADDIE
(Looks down, gets uncomfortable)
Uhh… no, honey. We sort of… you know… grew apart.
ASHLEY
(Astonished)
You did?
MADDIE
‘Fraid so.
LITTLE DAVID
(Outside the Den – O.S.)
Aww, Dad. Why do we have to do this?
DAVID
(Outside the Den – O.S.)
It’s all because of what happened at Ash’s birthday party. It was supposed to be her day, not yours.
LITTLE DAVID (O.S.)
Was it my fault everyone wanted to play football without her?
DAVID (O.S.)
No one would have played at all if you didn’t run in the house shouting, "Who wants to play football?"
MADDIE
Would you excuse me, girls?
(She turns around, then turns back)
I’m coming back to find out who found that tape and why it’s running this time of night…? Shouldn’t you be ready for bed?
Maddie turns again and leaves the room.
MEGAN
Told you we were gonna get caught.
The rest of the girls give Megan a cold stare.
Maddie walks in while David and his reluctant son take a few items close to the door.
LITTLE DAVID
Why Bowling?
DAVID
Why?…Why? Bowling is one of those sports you never ask "Why"?
LITTLE DAVID
Bowling is a sport?
DAVID
Of course, it is. It has its own scoreboard, it’s own jargon and a professional tour… even though it hasn’t been televised for years.
(Talks to himself)
Why couldn’t Tiger Woods be a bowler?
MADDIE
Speaking of television…
LITTLE DAVID
(Turns; Eyes plead to his mother)
Mom, do I have to go?
MADDIE
Now you know this is Ashley’s night and –
LITTLE DAVID
(Deflated)
Yes, I know. The birthday party. But what was a 12-year-old boy to do?
DAVID
You’re now witnessing what’s called the Ying and Yang of western modern life.
(Turns to Maddie)
Did I get all that in?
Maddie nods. He turns back to little David.
LITTLE DAVID
I bet nothing really bad ever happened to you.
Maddie and David share a look.
DAVID
I bet you wouldn’t have said that 14 years ago.
MADDIE
Which brings me back to why I’m here. Ashley and her slumber buddies are looking at a little souvenir from that period as we speak.
DAVID
(Turns to Maddie sharply)
You mean… the tape?
MADDIE
Yep… the tape.
LITTLE DAVID
What’s "the tape?"
DAVID
(Steers little David to the door)
I’ll fill you in after I throw three strikes in a row, c’mon.
David picks up his bowling ball carrying case, opens the door and heads out. Little David follows.
MADDIE
(Talks louder)
She also asked me "the question."
A second later, David steps back in.
DAVID
(A bit worried)
She did?
MADDIE
(Nods)
She did.
DAVID
(Blows out a heavy sigh; Runs his hand through his hair)
Okay…well, I guess it’s enough time.
MADDIE
(Bewildered)
Enough time?
DAVID
Yeah. To finally express… explain what happened.
MADDIE
Oh, I don’t know, David. They’re only 12 and 10.
DAVID
Which makes this the right time. Maddie… these two are on their way into voice cracking and major pimples.
MADDIE
Not to mention "Aunt Flo."
DAVID
I’ll leave that one to you. Anyway, I think if they can handle all that, they can handle this.
MADDIE
(Shakes her head, worried)
I’m not sure…
DAVID
Better now than later. You don’t want them to wonder why years later Walter Jr. and Jeremy were filling in what we should have told them.
(David answers Maddie’s confused look)
You don’t think Terri, Agnes and Bert won’t tell their kids how the impossible became possible?
MADDIE
(Gives in)
All right. I’ll tell her.
DAVID
And I’ll tell Davey.
(Maddie gives a scornful look. David throws up his defensive hands.)
Relax, I’m not telling him everything.
MADDIE
(Mischievous grin)
Better not. You also better get going.
DAVID
Okay.
He slowly walks out the door. Before he closes it, he peers back in. David puts two fingers to his lips, kisses them and gives Maddie a good-bye gesture and an equally mischievous grin and shuts the door behind him. Maddie still stares at it.
ASHLEY (O.S.)
Mommy! The tape’s done!
Maddie jumps out of her skin.
MADDIE
Coming, sweetie!
She Calms down, yet gets nervous at the same time. Knowing now what she has to do. Looks up to the ceiling.
MADDIE
Please… if you do exist, please help me get through this.
She takes a deep breath and walks out as we see an empty foyer.
Ashley and her friends, Megan, Cheri and Angela, sit the sofa. Maddie sits in the middle (between Ashley and Cheri).
MADDIE
Let’s see… how can I explain this the right way…
ASHLEY
Why? Was it bad?
MADDIE
Ironically, it was pretty good. Actually, I loved the career change. Being an investigative reporter was one of the best experiences in my life. The hours weren’t nearly as long as running a detective agency.
ASHLEY
What about Daddy? Were you in touch with him?
MADDIE
Like I said, Ash, we grew apart. After your dad and I closed down Blue Moon, we went our separate ways.
ASHLEY
(Shakes her head in disbelief)
I can’t believe you without Daddy. It’s like… going on fieldtrips without cheese buses.
CHERI
But how did you and Mr. Addison get back together?
ALL THE GIRLS
(Very curious)
Yeah!
MADDIE
(Points to the VCR)
You just saw it.
ALL THE GIRLS
Huh?
MADDIE
The tape you were all watching. It involves the case that brought David Addison and I together again.
ANGELA
You helped Mrs. Rosario. That’s her name, right?
MADDIE
Now she’s Mrs. Rosario. She was Miss Kelley when this case began. She sent me a letter, like all the KTLA viewers did. They requested me to help them solve a situation that went out of control.
MEGAN
Like Karen O’Neil does now.
MADDIE
Right. You know, I can still remember that letter. Let me see if I can…
(Closes her eyes, hoping to jog her memory)
… Dear Maddie Hayes… I watch you every… everyday and I always get a kick out of you doggedly chasing some no-good swindler out his office, building or parking lot…
ASHLEY
(Looks at the camera)
Cue Dissolve.
A tight close-up of a typewritten letter. Maddie continues voice over from the previous scene. Her hand reaches for something off screen to the right. She slowly retrieves a KTLA coffee mug. The camera pulls out as we see Maddie leisurely reading the letter silently (voice over continues) while sipping her morning coffee.
MADDIE (V.O.)
(continues from last scene)
…That’s why you were the first person that came to mind when a no-good swindler is now taking advantage of me. He’s a private investigator. I hired him to find out who’s threatening my fiancé’s life. I paid him $5,000 dollars up front and promised to pay another $10,000 when the investigator found out what’s going on. Since then, all I received was the receipt the receptionist gave me when I left his agency over a month ago. Time is running out, Miss Hayes. I know because the most recent ransom note told me so. My fiancé and I plan to be married in two weeks. I want to keep that date and keep my fiancé alive (not in that order). Please, Miss Hayes, I truly hope you can help me. My number is…
VOICE (O.S.)
Maddie? Can I come in?
MADDIE
(Not looking up.)
Yeah, sure Stacey.
STACEY
(Eagerly)
Well?
MADDIE
(Holds up the danish from her desk)
You’re right. The new girl at the breakfast cart does have great danish.
STACEY
Would I be marching into your office this early in the morning if I were talking about danish?
MADDIE
(Now gets what Stacey means. Shrugs.)
He’s cute but…
STACEY
But? But what? Aaron is perfect for you.
MADDIE
Don’t you mean he’s perfect for you?
STACEY
I would, but he didn’t ask me to dinner…
(Looks into Maddie’s despondent face)
Okay… who was it?
MADDIE
(Looks up for the first time)
Excuse me?
STACEY
Who was the no good, cheating, so-and-so who broke your heart?
MADDIE
(Evades)
I don’t know what you mean.
STACEY
It had to be a low life who made you so closed up inside. Believe me, the "I’m crushed and damn you for ruining my life" expression is still written on your face.
MADDIE
I’m not closed up. I go out. I date. I do everything everyone else here – still written on my face?
STACEY
(Sadly nods)
Uh-huh. I knew you needed this job. I also knew it wasn’t for the money.
MADDIE
(Trying to convince Stacey and herself)
Stas, I’m okay…really. I’m fine. I’m just picky, that’s all.
STACEY
I don’t know… you’ve been here for about a year now. You’ve thrown away a few fishes, gorgeous fishes, back into the sea since you started here.
MADDIE
Maybe I’m not a fishing kind of girl.
(Stacey gives her a look)
I’m not. I’m more of the "kick back let’s see what happens" kind of girl.
STACEY
Okay, then kick back. You can even put your feet up on that chair when I drag you into one of the newest hot spots in town after work.
Before Maddie can respond, another woman walks into her office.
WOMAN
Uh, Maddie? Have you decided which report you’re going to run with tonight?
MADDIE
(Shoots out of her chair, grabs the letter she just read and goes to the woman)
I think this one is promising, Reneé.
Maddie's hands her the letter. Reneé reads it. Then gets excited.
RENEE
Promising?
(Looks at Maddie)
I want this on the air, pronto! Have you called her yet?
MADDIE
I’m on it as soon as you give me back the letter.
(Reneé smiles and gives back the letter – to Stacey)
As you can see, depending on this latest –
STACEY
(Wearily)
I know, I know.
(Walks to the door.)
Maddie, sooner or later, there’s gonna be a guy who will get you out of this office and make you walk down the aisle.
ASHLEY (V.O.)
Is this were Daddy comes in?
MADDIE (V.O.)
(Understates)
Not quite.
ASHLEY (V.O.)
When does it?
MADDIE
(Takes her cell phone out her pocket)
Later, honey, later.
She starts dialing.
A close-up of a cell phone as it rings. On the third ring, a large hand picks it up. We follow the hand and we see David sitting while little David has trouble holding a bowling ball.
DAVID
Take your time with that thing.
(to Phone)
Yo.
MADDIE (V.O.)
You’re up.
DAVID
Gotcha.
(Hangs up)
Davey, c’mere for a sec.
Little David holds the ball for dear life and attempts to take huge steps to go to his father. He flops down next to David, kicks his feet in the air to show how much of an ordeal it was to carry that bowling ball. David takes the ball out of his son’s lap and places it on the floor.
LITTLE DAVID
Thank God.
DAVID
Remember your mother and I were talking about a videotape?
LITTLE DAVID
Yeah? What were you guys –
DAVID
I’m getting to it…
It’s a little hard for David to start.
LITTLE DAVID
Dad?
DAVID
(In his own world)
If it weren’t for that tape, you and your sister wouldn’t be here.
LITTLE DAVID
What?
DAVID
(Continues his train of thought)
No… you guys would still be born… probably in another form… or in another gender… maybe I’d have two boys… or girls…maybe I’d have three…
LITTLE DAVID
(Loudly)
Dad?
DAVID
(Snaps out of it)
I’m here.
(Smiles down at him)
Missed me that much?
LITTLE DAVID
(Curious)
C’mon, Dad. What is this tape all about?
DAVID
You’ll see when we dissolve into my flashback.
LITTLE DAVID
Cool.
We hear something beeping. We see a close-up of a digital clock. It says 9:45AM. A hand pounds on the top of the alarm clock. The beeping stops.
A medium shot as David’s head struggles to peek out of the covers. He squints his eyes and stares at the clock to see what time it is.
DAVID
(Groggy)
It never gets easier.
WOMAN (O.S.)
Your cases…
An attractive woman in her early thirties pulls off the covers. She wears one of David’s shirts.
WOMAN
… or me.
DAVID
(Smirks)
The jury’s still out.
They move closer and they kiss.
LITTLE DAVID (V.O.)
(Nervous tone)
Uhhh… Dad?
DAVID (V.O.)
Nothing’s going to happen.
LITTLE DAVID (V.O.)
(Relieved tone)
Good.
After he and the woman kiss, David gets out of bed, wearing his holey gray sweatpants, and notices a red light flashing on his answering machine. He presses the "Play" button.
MALE VOICE
(On machine)
Hey, hot shot. Rise and shine. I got a new case. It’s right up your alley. If you can wrap it up pretty quick, you can expect a hefty bonus in there…
DAVID
Another bonus, huh? I’m surprised Eddie’s arms haven’t gotten tired of holdin’ all those carrots he keeps wavin’.
WOMAN
As long as he keeps wavin’ them in your direction, what do you care?
She tosses her shoulder length auburn tinted hair to the side and stretches her arms up as she yarns.
DAVID
I don’t know, Deanna. I kinda feel… guilty.
DEANNA
Guilty? For solving a case everyone in this city is still talking about? The case the media thought would never be solved?
DAVID
Yeah, I guess it is a water cooler kind of case.
DEANNA
It definitely is. The Mayor doesn’t give the key to the city to anyone.
David looks over to his drawer. Goes over and picks up the oversized bronze key.
DAVID
Anyone could have saved that FBI agent.
DEANNA
Well…
(Gets out of bed and goes to David)
maybe the huge banquet the Governor’s throwing in your honor in a few days will change your mind.
DAVID
But it was just all in a day’s work.
Deanna wraps her arms around David.
DEANNA
You can continue being modest while I take a shower.
David gives her a seductive smirk…
DAVID (V.O.)
(Anxious tone)
Uhh… I think you got the gist…uhhh…
(Calmer tone)
when my… significant other and I finished our breakfast, we went to the agency I was working for after your mother and I shut down Blue Moon.
David and Deanna walk in and go to the receptionist.
LITTLE DAVID (V.O.)
I guess you and Mom were…
DAVID (V.O.)
On the outs, yeah.
DAVID
(to Receptionist)
Any calls, Val?
VALERIE
Other than the usual requests for interviews and talk show appearances, no.
DAVID
When Oprah calls, put her through, PDQ, got it?
VALERIE
(Smiles)
Got it.
David looks to his left.
DAVID
Oh, I forgot.
DEANNA
What is it?
DAVID
I gotta give Callahan the money I owe him playing poker.
DEANNA
I’m sure he’s forgotten it by now.
DAVID
Nobody forgets winning $200 dollars and waiting over a month to get it. I would have given it to him sooner if it weren’t for that case.
DEANNA
It’s remarkable you’d lose anything with this winning streak you got going.
DAVID
I wouldn’t if I had lady luck on my side that night.
(He kisses her)
Wait in my office. It won’t take long to give Frank this special delivery.
He pulls out the $200 dollars.
DEANNA
I’m setting my stopwatch.
DAVID
I’ll make it in world record time. You watch.
DEANNA
No, you watch.
She proceeds to saunter toward David’s office. David grins appreciatively as she opens the door to the large corner office on the right side. After she walks inside, David turns to the left and goes to Frank’s office.
MALE VOICE (V.O.)
Hey… hey…
A man in his 60’s stands above David and little David.
MAN
Are you two using these lanes?
DAVID
(Looks up)
Yeah, Mr. Pollack. We’re usin’ ‘em. We’re taking a little break in between games.
MR. POLLACK
(Kinder)
Oh, Mr. Addison. I didn’t know it was you.
DAVID
No prob. I usually don’t come in here until Wednesday.
MR. POLLACK
That’s right. You’re one of the bowlers for the "Harem Scarum" league your company sponsors, right?
DAVID
The check’s in the mail. I assure you you’ll be drooling over the amount of zeroes by daybreak…
Sound of the bowling alley scene fades down. The voice over of family den scene fades up.
ASHLEY (V.O.)
Mommy?… Mommy?
MADDIE (V.O.)
Yes, Ashley?
ASHLEY
What does Daddy’s fling have to do with this?
MADDIE
(Not looking forward to what’s going to happen next)
Only way to explain is to show you. Remember Reneé, the lady who wanted my story to go on the air?
(The four girls nod)
She produced the 6 o’clock news… I think she still produces it… Anyway, she really wanted me to air the Kelley case. I called Miss Kelley and she filled me in on where I needed to go. I asked her to join me since she could tell me which person I needed to grill. Reneé always told me to keep the people I interrogate off guard. However, as you’ll see, her great advice backfired big time.
Maddie steps into high gear with Miss Kelley and Henry, the KTLA cameraman, toward the front door.
MADDIE
Is this the place?
MISS KELLEY
Yes. This is it. Anderson and Associates Detective Agency.
MADDIE
And you said the person who stiffed you –
MISS KELLEY
Works right here. That’s correct.
Miss Kelley’s very attractive features help deceive people into thinking she’s younger than she is. Her dark brown hair bounces each time she rushes to match Maddie’s stride.
MADDIE
Are you ready with that camera, Henry?
HENRY
Ready when you are.
MADDIE
Let’s do it.
Maddie leads Miss Kelley and Henry, who begins recording this anticipated confrontation. All three go inside the agency.
Maddie marches straight to the receptionist. Valerie abruptly hangs up the phone, smiles, and points her finger at Maddie as she comes closer to Valerie’s desk. The screen now has a jerky motion since we are now seeing everything through Henry’s huge handheld camera.
VALERIE
Hey! I know you! You’re –
MADDIE
Yes, I’m Madolyn Hayes, Investigative reporter for KTLA news. Is there a Frank Callahan here?
VALERIE
(Uneasy)
Well –
MADDIE
Don’t bother. I’ll find him myself.
(to Miss Kelley)
Which room did you meet this Callahan?
MISS KELLEY
The one over there.
Miss Kelley points to the large corner office on the right.
MADDIE
(Smells blood)
C’mon, Henry.
VALERIE
Ummm… Miss Hayes! You’re making a mistake!
MADDIE
Save it for the person who’s not up on your tricks.
MISS KELLEY
(Rushes over to the door with Maddie)
This is so exciting!
MADDIE
(to Miss Kelley)
I haven’t even started yet.
(to Henry)
Got the close-up ready?
HENRY
Ready.
VALERIE
But —!
MADDIE
(Turns to Valerie; sarcastically)
Shhh! We don’t want the rat to squirm back into his hole. It’s bad for my ratings.
(to Henry and Miss Kelley)
All right… on the count of 3.
(Maddie grabs the doorknob)
1… 2… 3.
(Maddie bursts through the door.)
Mr. Callahan, can you tell me…
Close-up of David tongue kissing Deanna as she sits on his lap. David abruptly breaks the kiss, then stares at Maddie.
Medium shot of Miss Kelley, Henry and Maddie, shocked as she stares at David.
MISS KELLEY
Miss Hayes…? Are you okay?
HENRY
Maddie…! Maddie!
Close-up of David still staring at Maddie. Deanna looks very confused.
DAVID
(Shocked; whispers)
Maddie?
MADDIE
(Equally shocked; whispers)
David?
A still image of the title is showing. An abbreviated version of the theme is being used. Maddie's voice are in voice over.
MADDIE
Stay tuned, you don't want to miss what's coming next.
A still image of the title is showing. An abbreviated version of the theme is being used. David's voices are in voice over.
DAVID
Now let the reunion begin!
We continue to see Maddie and David staring in complete shock. After a year and a half, these conflicting feelings of anger, curiosity, vulnerability and relief in seeing each other again, shouldn’t be this strong… at least that’s what they both kept telling themselves. Henry waves his hand in front of Maddie’s face. Deanna does the same to David.
ASHLEY (V.O.)
(whispers)
Wow, Mommy. What did you do?
MADDIE (V.O.)
What could I do? I was too stunned.
DEANNA
(to David)
You never acted like this when Tom Brokaw interviewed you two weeks ago.
HENRY
(to Maddie)
What’s the matter? It isn’t the first time we busted in the wrong room. Think of it this way, we didn’t catch them in the act like we did with those people in –
MADDIE
(Still staring at David)
Turn it off.
HENRY
But –
MADDIE
I said turn it off!
She grabs the lens of the camera and pushes it to the side. Henry stumbles and is knocked to the floor.
DAVID
I see you found a new whipping boy.
MADDIE
I see you found a new sleeping bag.
DEANNA
Hey!
DAVID
(to Deanna)
Forgive her, honey. It seems she forgot to take her pills this morning. They control her venom.
A man rushes to David’s door; he’s out of breath.
MAN
What the hell’s goin’ on in here?!
MADDIE
And who are you?
MAN
Edward Anderson. The owner of the place you just trespassed. Where the hell do you get off –
MADDIE
Where are you hiding him?
EDWARD
Hiding who?
DAVID
Hiding who?
Maddie gives David a cold stare, then turns to the man.
MADDIE
Isn’t this Frank Callahan’s office?
(David chuckles. She turns to David and gives another cold stare.)
What is so funny?
DAVID
If I had a dollar for all the times Frank used my office to impress clients –
MADDIE
(Incredulous)
Your office?
She looks around the massive corner office.
DAVID
Don’t think I’m capable of having an office?
DEANNA
(Puzzled)
You two know each other or somethin’?
DAVID
We had a little run-in prior to this morning.
MADDIE
Yes, little is exactly how I’d describe it, all right.
David is incensed, knowing what she meant by that remark.
DAVID
What the hell do you want?
HENRY
Oooo, touchy, touchy.
EDWARD
You can start by telling me what does Frank have to do with this ambush?
MADDIE
Maybe Miss Kelley can explain.
MISS KELLEY
I gave Mr. Callahan $5,000 dollars to handle my case. It’s been over month and I haven’t seen or heard from him.
EDWARD
What are you talking about? He’s here. His door is –
DAVID
I checked, Eddie. He’s not in there.
MADDIE
What a minute. You’re the boss and you don’t even know when your employees come to work?
EDWARD
Why should I? David handles the day-to-day operations here.
MADDIE
(Mutters to herself)
I’m surprised this place is still running.
DAVID
What was that?
MADDIE
Nothing that’s any of your business.
DAVID
Anything said in this office is my business.
HENRY
Wait.
(Points his finger to David, then Maddie)
What’s going –
MADDIE
There’s nothing here, Henry. Let’s leave.
DAVID
Finally! God answered my prayers.
MISS KELLEY
But, Miss Hayes? What about my case?
MADDIE
There is no case. I’m sorry, Miss Kelley, it seems as though Mr. Frank Callahan isn’t coming back.
EDWARD
You’re leaving? Just like that? You barged in here to find him, didn’t you?
MADDIE
Yes.
EDWARD
What’s stopping you? David can give you –
DAVID
Oh, no, no, no.
David waves his arms vigorously in protest.
EDWARD
Look, David. I know you hate having a partner, but this is one of our own we’re talkin’ about. We gotta find out where he is.
MADDIE
I really don’t need any help.
EDWARD
I understand you’re the best at what you do, but there are certain things you TV people don’t know about. There are certain dangers you’re not aware of.
MADDIE
I know more than I need to know.
(Looks at David)
Besides, this little matter is your responsibility.
MISS KELLEY
Miss Hayes?
MADDIE
I’m sorry. These people are more equipped to find this Frank person than I am. They work with him. They know his habits, his whereabouts.
HENRY
In other words, they’re real detectives.
MADDIE
(A little stung by that comment – to Henry)
I wouldn’t go that far.
DEANNA
(Indignant)
Time magazine did.
Maddie can’t help but feel a little jealously rising as she stares back at Deanna.
DAVID
(Smug)
Yeah, leave it to the big boys.
(to Miss Kelley)
Miss Kelley, it is?
(She nods.)
My name is –
MISS KELLEY
I know. I read about you in last month’s Newsweek article.
DEANNA
(to David)
I don’t know. They could have used a better picture for that cover, don’t you think, sweetheart?
Maddie’s temperature is rising.
DAVID
Why don’t you step into the office you thought was Frank’s and we’ll discuss this further.
Miss Kelley looks at Maddie.
MADDIE
(Surrenders)
I think you should go with him.
MISS KELLEY
All right… if you say so.
Miss Kelley walks into David’s office.
DEANNA
I’ll be in the powder room. I hope you don’t miss me while I’m gone.
She nuzzles David’s nose. She goes to the executive washroom.
EDWARD
David, keep me posted on the latest.
DAVID
You got it, Chief.
Edward leaves. Maddie, feeling humiliated for different reasons, turns and starts to leave. David shakes his head.
DAVID
Unbelievable. I don’t even get a "Thank you."
MADDIE
(Whips around)
Thank you?! You want a "thank you"?! I’ll give you a "thank you"! Thank you for stealing my case!
DAVID
Stealing your case?!
MADDIE
Stealing my case!!
David stands up and slowly walks to the door, toward Maddie.
DAVID
You’re the one who quit on your case!
MADDIE
I only quit because I felt I had to.
DAVID
Is that your latest excuse?
MADDIE
Just work on the case and leave me the hell alone.
DAVID
Fine!
MADDIE
Fine!
DAVID
Good!
Before Maddie can speak, David slams the door in her face. The loud slam made Miss Kelley wince at the sound and the fury David displayed.
Maddie, staring at the door. Stunned by the force, stunned that David would do such a thing to her.
MADDIE
(Softly)
Good.
She gingerly touches the door as she contemplates if she should go in there and apologize for her outburst. She reaches for the doorknob, about to turn it –
HENRY
Maddie, we gotta go back.
She turns to him, nods, then follows him out the agency.
David is at the door, wondering if he should open it and apologize to Maddie. He also wonders how could he build up so much anger that he’d slam a door in her face, not caring if she’d get hurt. He never did that to her before. He grips the doorknob, starts to open it –
DEANNA (O.S.)
Wow! What as that all about?
David turns and sees his girlfriend come out of the bathroom.
DAVID
(Still trying to figure out what happened, as well)
Uhh, pesky media. You live with ‘em, you throw ‘em out of your office.
ASHLEY (V.O.)
Wow, Mommy! And I thought Davey and I were bad…
Voice over of family den (Ashley, Maddie, etc.) fades down. The voice over of Bowling Alley fades up.
LITTLE DAVID (V.O.)
Wow, Dad! And I thought Ash and I were bad.
DAVID (V.O.)
It was pretty nasty for a while there.
LITTLE DAVID (V.O.)
How did you and Mom get out of that?
DAVID
Believe me when I tell you it wasn’t easy. In fact, it was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. I’m sure it was the same for your mom.
LITTLE DAVID
Why were you two so angry at each other, anyway?
DAVID
I think the feeling of being abandoned by the other had a great deal to do with it. And when we saw each other more than a year later, all those feelings resurfaced.
LITTLE DAVID
Am I doing this right?
(He grips the bowling ball)
I tried to put my fingers into these holes, but they’re too wide.
DAVID
Let me get you a smaller one.
David takes the large bowling ball out of his son’s struggling hands.
LITTLE DAVID
I still don’t understand how you and Mom were able to get back together. From what you described, that door slam was pretty final.
DAVID
Well, nobody told Miss Kelley.
(Little David gives his father a puzzled look)
Her case was far from final…
Miss Kelley walks in.
DAVID
Thank you for coming in this early.
MISS KELLEY
To get results, I’ll come in my nightgown.
Something about the harmless comment made him freeze for a second, but recovers before Miss Kelley can notice.
DAVID
What I’m about to tell you might make you rethink that.
MISS KELLEY
(Gets concerned)
I assumed you called me because you found Frank Callahan.
DAVID
Which do you want first, the good news or the bad news?
(She doesn’t respond)
All right… I’ll go with the good news. I found Frank.
(Miss Kelley smiles. She’s about to respond, but David cuts her off.)
I found him by the river… with a bullet in his head.
MISS KELLEY
(In shock)
He’s… dead?
David sadly nods, then looks down.
DAVID
I’ve… uhhh… already arranged to refund your $5,000 dollars –
MISS KELLEY
(Blurts)
Keep it.
DAVID
What?
MISS KELLEY
Keep it.
(Looks at David intently)
I want you on the case.
DAVID
I don’t know if –
MISS KELLEY
Please! I don’t know where to turn.
DAVID
You can turn left on your way to KTLA.
MISS KELLEY
I only contacted Miss Hayes to get my money back and possibly humiliate a scumbag.
DAVID
Someone else did much worse to that "scumbag."
MISS KELLEY
I wanted you to help me when I first came here, but I was told you were already on a case.
DAVID
Does this have any connection to how Frank was murdered?
MISS KELLEY
It might.
She looks down, stays silent.
DAVID
I can’t help if you keep the details locked in.
He taps the side of his head.
MISS KELLEY
(Gets a bit nervous)
Oh, I’m sorry. I…
(Takes a deep breath)
It has to do with my fiancé. He works… He used to work for a computer firm.
DAVID
You mind giving me his name?
MISS KELLEY
(Jumpy, nervous)
Yes… I mean no…. I mean, his name is Michael Rosario.
DAVID
This may sound like a strange question but… what’s your name?
MISS KELLEY
Oh!
(Talks fast)
I’m sorry! I’m so sorry! I’ve been so afraid someone will find out I…
(Slows down)
It’s Alicia… Alicia Kelley.
DAVID
(Reassuring her)
It’s okay. Relax. I won’t flash a spotlight in your face. We’re friends here, okay?
(She nods)
Now what did Michael do?
ALICIA
He created software to help make trading more efficient.
DAVID
Trading? As in the New York Stock Exchange?
ALICIA
And AMEX, the London Stock Exchange, NIKKEI, Hong Kong… It would have revolutionized the entire industry.
DAVID
What went wrong? Why would he get canned for an invention that would have his company cutting in front of the Fortune 500 line?
ALICIA
The night before Michael was supposed to present this software, he stayed on the job to get the final kinks out of the armor, as it were. He usually does his fine tuning at home. He has a computer set-up in his garage and… anyway… he needed some information to verify some facts, you know, to see if the commands made sense. He went into a supervisor’s office… Hughes… Barry Hughes… I think… so that Michael can access some information off his computer. He always had permission to do so previously except… that night, the computer codes had been changed. Being the computer whiz, Michael eventually found the new code, but that’s not all he found…
She burst out crying.
DAVID
(Concerned)
What did Michael find?
ALICIA
A classified memo… to… to make sure Michael’s presentation would… would fail.
(David has a bewildered look)
They made a duplicate program behind his back.
DAVID
If he was such a computer whiz –
ALICIA
It doesn’t require a high IQ to stick in a floppy disk and copy what’s on a computer screen.
DAVID
(Nods)
Granted.
ALICIA
They were setting him up for a fall.
DAVID
A fall greater than the depression? While I’m buying the "how", I need you to tell me the "why".
ALICIA
I told you. They wanted to set him up.
DAVID
For what? It’s their program he was…
ALICIA
(Shakes her head)
It’s company policy for any invention created by an employee, that employee owns it outright.
DAVID
And the company felt the price for this invention would be too high to let one employee reap most of the benefits.
ALICIA
Not only that. They wanted to publicly ruin his reputation while sending in the application for a patent on his program.
DAVID
He’d be left drowning his sorrows at the nearest watering hole, never to be hired again.
ALICIA
And while Michael asks for another beer, he’d be served with a lawsuit along with it.
DAVID
For possessing an illegal copy of their intellectual property.
ALICIA
How did I do?
DAVID
I’m at the cash register. Money hasn’t exchanged hands yet.
ALICIA
When he found the memo, he copied it, along with other sensitive information, you know, the duplicate copy of his program, etc. He went back to his office, cleared his desk and never came back. That was six weeks ago. He’s never called, never written.
(Takes out a piece of paper; crying)
All I got was this.
David takes the paper out of her trembling hand.
DAVID
(Eyes on the paper)
$50 Million dollars.
ALICIA
Estimated amount of profits the company would have made.
DAVID
I’m guessing you’re not related to Rockefeller… or the Kennedys.
(She nods as she continues to cry)
That’s the bad news, but here’s the good news…
(She looks up at David)
I’m sold.
LITTLE DAVID (V.O.)
Her fiancé was held for ransom for some program?
DAVID (V.O.)
A program that would have made that company bigger than Microsoft.
LITTLE DAVID (V.O.)
What did you do?
DAVID
First I had to calm Alicia down. Tell her I’ll find Michael. But I couldn’t do it alone…
Voice over of Bowling Alley fades down. The voice over of family den (Ashley, Maddie, etc.) fades up.
ASHLEY (V.O.)
And that’s when you came in, right Mommy?
MADDIE (V.O.)
Well…not exactly.
ASHLEY (V.O.)
Well, how exactly?
MADDIE
Not at all.
(All the girls are stunned)
I washed my hands of the case.
CHERI
I don’t understand. How did you two…
MADDIE
We’ll get there. I promise.
MEGAN
All this promising is making me hungry.
MADDIE
Which leads us to the next part of the story.
(The four girls look puzzled)
My lunch hour. It was full of surprises…
MADDIE
Pass me the salt?
STACEY
Not until you tell me why.
MADDIE
I’m not interested in wasting another night on a date.
STACEY
A blind date.
MADDIE
That’s even worse.
STACEY
I don’t know why people give blind dates a bad rap? I’ve had so much fun and you feel the least bit guilty when you leave them before the waiter brings the check.
MADDIE
(Laughs)
Stas, you’re terrible!
STACEY
Seriously. I think it’ll do a world of good. Don’t you think your microwave needs a rest?
MADDIE
I never asked it.
STACEY
A clear sign of abuse. I’m telling you, this guy is the genuine article. Nancy wouldn’t steer me wrong.
MADDIE
Wait. You’ve never seen this guy?
STACEY
Look, Nancy has set-up nearly everyone at the station. I haven’t heard any complaints.
MADDIE
Maybe they don’t want to hurt her feelings.
STACEY
Or maybe they’re too much in love.
(Maddie rolls her eyes as she sips her coffee)
Okay, it’s an overstatement. Sue me.
MADDIE
You’ll regret those words.
STACEY
Maddie, trust me… talk to Nancy. If you still don’t approve, I’ll drop it. I swear.
MADDIE
All I have to do is talk?
STACEY
That’s all.
MADDIE
(Gives her a wary look)
That’s all I’m doing… talking.
STACEY
Talking.
(Smiles)
Talking’s good.
MADDIE
I’ll agree if you’d give me the salt.
Stacey laughs as she gives Maddie the salt.
Maddie’s in her chair, staring at the TV at the opposite side of the room.
STACEY (O.S.)
So?
MADDIE
So?
(Swivels her chair to face Stacey; monotone)
I’ll give it a try.
STACEY
That’s great! I know the best –
MADDIE
We’re going to dinner, then dancing.
(Stacey stares at her)
I got off the phone with him a few minutes ago. Brett seems to be a nice guy.
STACEY
Brett. Sounds Ivy League enough to me.
MADDIE
How does Yale sound?
STACEY
I better get out of here before I really get jealous.
Stacey starts walking out.
MADDIE
I haven’t even met him.
STACEY
I can’t hear you. My heels are clicking too loud.
MADDIE
No they’re not.
STACEY
(Turns around, still walking away)
What? I can’t hear you.
As Stacey continues walking out of sight, Maddie continues to chuckle to herself. She stares again, but not at the TV. She has a far away look as she leans back in her chair and slips into a dream.
The set of "The Dating Game." Maddie fidgets with excitement on her stool. Her legs crossed and waits for the host to introduce her.
JIM LANGE
And here’s our next bachelorette.
The theme "Lollipops and Roses" plays in the background.
JIM LANGE
She’s originally from Chicago, a former model…
(eyes widen in surprise)
A private detective and now she’s an investigative reporter. Let’s here it for Madolyn Hayes!
Audience applauds. The stagelights come up and wall separating her and the bachelors revolves around to reveal Maddie waving to the crowd. Jim Lange approaches Maddie.
JIM LANGE
A private detective, huh Madolyn?
MADDIE
Maddie. Call me Maddie. And yes, I was a detective.
JIM LANGE
Well, I better be on my best behavior then.
(Cups his hands over his mouth toward the wall separating Maddie and the three bachelors)
As well as you three back there.
(The audience laughs)
Okay, Maddie, if you’re all set, I’m all set and I’m sure the audience and everyone out in TV land is all set. Fire away, Maddie!
Jim walks away.
MADDIE
(A little nervous)
Okay… Bachelor number one, if we had met on a crowded street and you were allowed only one line to catch my attention, what would it be?
Bachelor #1 is what Maddie dreams to be Brett. He’s clean shaven, has brown hair, and chiseled features. He’s wearing a double breasted dark blue suit with a silk tie, very well groomed, not a strand of hair out of place.
BACHELOR #1
Hmm… one line. Let’s see… "Your eyes are as spectacular as my personality. I’d love to take you out to dinner."
MADDIE
(Not that impressed)
Interesting. Bachelor number 2. Same question.
Bachelor #2 is a classic Beach bum. Dirty blonde hair thrown all over the place. The only thing he forgot to bring is his surfboard.
BACHELOR #2
One line… oh, I got one! "Hey, babe! Do fries go with that shake?"
He laughs and nods his head weirdly. We hear faint laughter in the crowd.
MADDIE
(Tries not to laugh)
Uh-huh. What about you Bachelor number 3?
Bachelor #3 is, who else? David. Very cool, confident and dressed casually.
BACHELOR #3
My turn already, huh?
(Maddie recognizes the voice instantly and keeps an uneasy plastic smile)
I guess I’d have to go with, "Have we met before?"
JIM LANGE
(Sees Maddie squirm in her stool)
Are you all right? You want some water?
MADDIE
No, no, no. I’m fine. Really.
(Shuffles her index cards too fast)
Ummm… Bachelor number 1.
BACHELOR #1
Yes, Maddie?
MADDIE
Describe yourself as the meal? Explain why it best suits you.
BACHELOR #1
Well… it’s hard to say.
MADDIE
What so hard in choosing a meal?
BACHELOR #1
It wouldn’t if you can count dessert. And I’m not sure I can describe how scrumptious I’d be on television.
David rolls his eyes and grinning as the crowd reacts favorably.
MADDIE
Do you think you can handle the question Bachelor number 2?
BACHELOR #2
Popcorn shrimp.
MADDIE
(Trying to picture this in her mind)
Pop… corn… shrimp.
BACHELOR #2
Yeah, I can’t have just one.
MADDIE
(Unable to figure this out)
You can’t have more than one of…yourself?
BACHELOR #2
Oh! You meant what dinner describes me! Oh, I thought you meant… you know… you and… you know…
MADDIE
(Shakes her head)
No, I don’t know.
(Blows out a frustrated sigh)
All right, give it your best shot, Bachelor number 3.
BACHELOR #3
Sirloin Steak sautéed with Mushroom sauce.
MADDIE
Sirloin steak? Really? It’s not terribly fancy.
BACHELOR #3
No need.
MADDIE
No need?
BACHELOR #3
No need. I may be ordinary, everyday, yet once you try me… I’m tender, juicy…
(Seductive tone)
… and the most succulent piece of meat you’ve ever tasted.
The audience says, "ooooo" in response to the innuendo.
MADDIE
(Tries to play it cool)
What about the sauce and mushrooms?
BACHELOR #3
I added it to make it look more fancy.
MADDIE
(Shuffles index cards)
Let’s try this one.
(Stops at a card)
Yeah, this is a good one. While we have our romantic dinner, presumably at your place, and there was a blackout, Bachelor number 1, what would you do to get me through a potentially frightful night?
The crowd mumbles in anticipation.
BACHELOR #1
What would I do… hmmm… Boy, this is a loaded question…
(David shakes his head in amusement)
Okay, after I stumbled over a chair or two, I’d reach out to you, take your hand and ask you to feel my chin so you can tell me if there’s anything broken, or swollen or –
As some of the audience laugh, Maddie rolls her eyes.
MADDIE
(Cuts Bachelor #1 off)
Bachelor number 2?
BACHELOR #2
Oh, uhh… You mean, after I came to?
MADDIE
(Frustrated)
Bachelor number 3.
BACHELOR #3
I’d gently go over to you, help get you on the floor…
MADDIE
(More to herself; mumbles)
Here we go…
BACHELOR #3
…And tell you how lucky I am to let me massage your shoulders and hold you in my arms.
(Maddie softens in spite of herself)
And I’d thank you for letting me share the most vulnerable moments many would never share on a first date.
(Maddie’s now has melted in the moment)
And I’d seal my appreciation with a small kiss on your back.
The audience sighs and "awww’s" as they melt with Maddie.
MADDIE
That’s beautiful… but can you answer this.
BACHELOR #3
Shoot.
MADDIE
When you kiss a woman, do you normally think of that woman or someone else?
Before David can respond, Jim Lange goes to Maddie.
JIM LANGE
That’s all the time we have, Maddie.
The crowd moans. They wanted to hear the answer.
JIM LANGE
I’m going to have to ask you to choose who will be your date. Bachelor number 1…
(Camera cuts to Brett)
… Bachelor number 2…
(Camera swings to "Beach bum." He smiles awkwardly.)
…or Bachelor number 3.
The camera pans to calm and cool David.
MADDIE
Ummm…Ummmm…
The audience screams their choices. They scream for all three, yet most of the crowd clearly screams for "Bachelor number 3" or "3!"
MADDIE
Oh…
She takes a deep breath, can’t believe what’s about to come out of her mouth.
MADDIE
Bachelor number 3.
David smirks. He knew all along that Maddie would pick him. The "Beach Bum" gets out of his stool and slaps a high five with David. The audience explodes in excitement.
VOICE (V.O.)
Maddie…? Maddie…?
Maddie snaps out of her dream and straightens up in her chair when she sees her boss, Reneé.
MADDIE
Is it time to go on the air?
RENEE
Yes…
(Checks her watch as Maddie scrambles to get her written copy)
In another four hours.
MADDIE
(Calms down)
What’s wrong? Do you need me to check on something?
RENEE
Relax. I understand how blind dates can be weird but –
MADDIE
(Not shocked)
I’m shocked. I expected Stacey to tell you the second she clicked out of here.
RENEE
Clicked?
MADDIE
(Smiles, waves off the comment)
Never mind.
RENEE
Well, all I can say is, it’s about time! You’re too beautiful a woman to take yourself off the market this long.
MADDIE
I had my reasons.
RENEE
They, or shall I say he's, not good enough.
(Gives Maddie a knowing smile)
Give me your copy in about an hour.
Renee turns and leaves.
MADDIE
(Far away look, not sure about the "not good enough" comment)
Sure thing.
ASHLEY
"Not good enough?" How can she say that about Daddy?
CHERI
What was that weird looking game show?
ANGELA
"The Dating Game."
(the girls look at her)
I saw it on the Game Show Network…
Voice over of family den (Ashley, Maddie, etc.) fades down. The voice over of Bowling Alley fades up.
DAVID (V.O.)
She used "The Dating Game" as a dream sequence, huh?
LITTLE DAVID (V.O.)
Is that what that was?
DAVID
Never mind that. Here.
He gives his son a smaller bowling ball. Little David puts his three fingers in the small holes and swings the ball back and forth to see how heavy it is.
LITTLE DAVID
Yup. This’ll work.
DAVID
Now let me see you roll out a strike.
Little David sets the ball under his chin, takes a few steps to the lane, extends his arm back and throws the ball down the lane. It rolls, slows down and falls into the gutter. David winces.
DAVID
Ooooo, the all too familiar, yet all too frustrating gutter ball. That’s okay, you have many more chances to knock down a pin or two.
LITTLE DAVID
I still don’t understand.
DAVID
You’re doing it right. You just have to aim it at the pins.
LITTLE DAVID
I mean about you and Mom. It’s like you guys were farther apart than ever. You’re on another case, she’s going on a blind date.
DAVID
It does seem that way, doesn’t it?
David gets ready to bowl.
LITTLE DAVID
When did you know you still had or even wanted a chance with Mom again?
David is about to swing the bowling ball forward, but he doesn’t let go of it. He stops, then turns to his son.
DAVID
It would have to be that night. I was completely exhausted after chasing down leads to see if Frank’s death had anything to do with Alicia Kelley’s fiancé.
(He puts the ball back on the huge circular apparatus that returns the bowling balls from the lanes)
Deanna, you know, my girl at the time, she suggested… okay, she dragged me to this nightclub to unwind. It was one of the hottest spots. People were raving about this place.
LITTLE DAVID
Is that where you saw Mom and her blind date?
DAVID
(Playfully wags his finger at his son)
You’re catchin’ on.
A woman’s voice belts out three words, "Everybody dance now!" The sharp electric guitar licks made most people in the club jump to their feet to the C+C Music Factory megahit, "Let’s Sweat." We go to David and Deanna sitting at a table, drinking their Scotch as they lean close to each other to hear themselves speak above the thumping music.
DEANNA
I can’t believe those wimps wouldn’t help you.
DAVID
They felt their lives depended on stiffin’ me.
DEANNA
Nobody knows for sure if this thing with what’s her name’s dude is the reason Frank croaked.
DAVID
But that’s what co-workers are for. They disappear when you need them most.
DEANNA
And who is this chump again?
DAVID
Who?
DEANNA
The one who’s –
DAVID
Oh, him. Are you implying he’s a chump because he agreed to help?
DEANNA
No. It’s… well… how can I put this delicately… he makes those fools at your job look like… like CIA agents.
DAVID
And what does that make me?
DEANNA
You?
(Leans in seductively)
It makes you the most irresistible secret agent I ever laid eyes on.
DAVID
(Smirks; flirting)
Can’t you ever tell me how you really feel?
They laugh as Deanna kisses him. David is in clear view when he opens his eyes for a second. He quickly re-opens them and stares at Maddie and Stacey (mostly Maddie) walk across the room with their dates. David converts Deanna’s heat of passion into his jealously. Deanna breaks the kiss, sensing a strange, detached feeling on his lips.
Maddie’s hair is up (more like the way she wore it in "Money Talks, Maddie Walks." She wears a form fitting strapless evening dress. David and Deanna talk, but she wonders if David is listening. She catches glimpses of his eyes float toward Maddie’s direction. The music in the background changes to Black Box’s "Everybody, Everybody."
MADDIE (V.O.)
We had a pretty nice dinner. Brett was what I expected. All-American, sophisticated. His hair was darker than I imagined. His chin wasn’t so chiseled either. But he was very thoughtful and a good listener.
MEGAN (V.O.)
He’s also gorgeous.
ASHLEY (V.O.)
(Defensive; annoyed)
Nobody looks better than my Daddy, got it?
MEGAN (V.O.)
(Deflated)
Sorry, Ash…
Brett holds a chair out for Maddie as she sits down. He volunteers to take her satin wrap and put it on her chair. Stacey’s date also holds a chair out for her as Stacey sits.
Voice over of family den (Ashley, Maddie, etc.) fades down. The voice over of Bowling Alley fades up.
LITTLE DAVID (V.O.)
How did you compete with that guy?
DAVID (V.O.)
I didn’t.
LITTLE DAVID (V.O.)
You didn’t?
DAVID (V.O.)
Nope. I sat on the sidelines…
Voice over of Bowling Alley fades down. The voice over of family den (Ashley, Maddie, etc) fades up.
CHERI (V.O.)
What did you do next?
MADDIE (V.O.)
Keep watching…
STACEY
(Leans into Maddie’s ear)
So?
MADDIE
I don’t know.
STACEY
You don’t know? He’s been on his best behavior all evening.
MADDIE
That’s what I’m wary off.
STACEY
C’mon, loosen up.
(Leans closer to her ear; whispers)
Don’t you dare let him get away.
She smiles as she turns to her date.
BRETT
What would you like first? A drink or to be dipped?
He looks out toward the dance floor.
STACEY
(Before Maddie can respond, Stacey turns back to Maddie)
She already had a few glasses of wine.
Maddie turns to her, Stacey lifts her eyebrows and tilts her head to the dance floor.
MADDIE
Can’t find a better way to burn off the alcohol.
She takes Brett’s out-stretched hand and they head for the dance floor. The music changes to the funk flavored danceable hit "Fake," by Alexander O’neal. Maddie turns back to give Stacey a look. Stacey responds by smiling and giving Maddie a cute wave.
BRETT
Having a good time?
MADDIE
Yes, a wonderful time. Why would you ask?
BRETT
You weren’t too talkative during dinner.
MADDIE
It wasn’t you. It was… well…it was…
BRETT
The Crème Filet?
MADDIE
It was very delicious.
Maddie gives a small, bashful smile.
BRETT
And so is your smile.
(She gives him a bigger, more confident smile. He smiles back.)
I really don’t know how people like you do it.
MADDIE
People like me?
BRETT
Famous people. People in the public eye.
MADDIE
I don’t consider an investigative reporter on a local TV station a public figur –
VOICE (O.S.)
Excuse me?
Maddie turns and sees a man with an excited look on his face. He turns to a woman standing beside him.
MAN
You’re right, Cassie! It is her! Umm, Maddie Hayes?
MADDIE
(Awkward smile)
Yes?
The man fumbles to get paper from his wallet and his friend, Cassie, scrambles to get a pen out her purse. Seconds later, he thrusts the items into Maddie’s face.
MAN
Can you please sign this?
MADDIE
(A bit startled)
Well, sure.
She signs it and gives it back to him.
MAN
Thanks so much! Look Cassie! I got her autograph!
They move off.
BRETT
As you were saying?
Maddie looks up into his eyes and chuckles a little.
David is half-listening to Deanna at their table.
DAVID (V.O.)
Deanna continued talking, but I had something else on my mind.
DEANNA
…And just when I tell this shmuck I’m not interested, he kept sticking his pamphlet in my face. I just wanted to…
Deanna stops and notices that David’s stoic expression isn’t in reaction to her story. She turns and sees Brett about to bring Maddie up from a dip.
DEANNA
I know she’s famous, but she’s not that big of a deal… is she?
(David doesn’t respond)
David?
DAVID
(Snaps out of his trance)
Yo.
(Deanna stares at him)
What?
(He covers)
You mean, that?
He points to Maddie’s direction.
DEANNA
What else could I be talking about?
DAVID
Hairspray?
(Deanna defensively folds her arms)
Perfume? Which smells nice, by the way.
DEANNA
Then why did it take you this long to tell me?
DAVID
Look, I don’t know what this is all about.
(She stares)
All right, I was looking. I was only curious to see how two stuffy people think they can dance that awful and not be thrown out of the club.
DEANNA
Don’t give me that.
DAVID
Give you what? You think I’m interested in her? Is that what it is?
DEANNA
Are you?
VOICE (O.S.)
There you are, Mr. Addison… Mr. Addison?
DAVID
(Mumbles to himself; waving the person over to his table)
Not a moment too soon.
The person comes to the table. We see it is…
DAVID
Bert, whatcha got for me?
Bert looks to Deanna, then David. He feels the growing tension between the two of them.
BERT
I… I can tell you another time.
He starts to leave, David grabs him and brings him back.
DAVID
Don’t be silly, Bert. You’re not interrupting anything. It’s A-OK. Right, Deana?
DEANNA
(Strained tone)
Yup… A-OK.
BERT
(Not quite convinced)
Well… if you insist… uhh… I was able to track down one of the people responsible for Frank Callahan’s murder.
He scrambles to get the info. from one of his folders. Deanna looks away, rolls her eyes.
BERT
This guy was hired by the company Miss Kelley’s fiancé worked for… where’s the thing with the… there it is!
Takes out a piece of paper, accidentally tears it in half, David tries suppressing his amusement.
BERT
Telcal Computers. Specializing in creating software perfectly inclined for the business sector, including the stock markets, You know, the New York Stock Exchange, London Stock Exchange, NIKKEI –
DAVID
AMEX. We got that part of the expedition.
BERT
Oh, uhh… did you know the fiancé learned about the scheme, by stumbling on –
DAVID
A classified memo. Yeah, heard it.
BERT
Okay, what about Frank sneaking into the compound disguising himself as a potential client from the New York Stock Exchange and was found out when the person he impersonated showed up for his 1pm meeting? A meeting Frank didn’t know the company knew the real guy rescheduled two hours earlier?
DAVID
Finally some expedition worth mentioning.
BERT
The company busted this guy. They followed Frank, took him out and had him swimming with the fishes.
DEANNA
(Sarcastic)
Was he wearing cement boots?
DAVID
(to Deanna)
They didn’t want the Mob to figure out they were copyin’ their playbook.
(to Bert)
Okay, Bert. Here’s the $50 million dollar question. Who’s the hitman?
Bert looks to his folder and scrambles again to find the answer.
Maddie is now dancing more suggestively to the beat of "Seduction," by the group Seduction. Brett can’t help but express his enjoyment.
BRETT
Maddie, I have one request.
MADDIE
I’m listening.
BRETT
I want you to be in my arms.
MADDIE
(Coyly)
Well… I’ll see what I can do.
She lets Brett fold his arms around her while her back rests on his chest. She didn’t mind that their dancing is too slow for the 100 beat-per-minute House tune. Maddie glances over to Stacey and her date. Stacey gives her the A-OK signal. Seconds later, Maddie doesn’t know why, but she feels a dull, aching sensation in her head. She groans.
BRETT
(Stops; looks concerned)
Something wrong?
MADDIE
(Holds her forehead)
I don’t know… It’s … All of a sudden… I’m sorry. I have to sit.
BRETT
(Starts to help her off the dance floor)
It’s all right. Want me to take you home?
MADDIE
(Turns to him; smiles)
Oldest trick in the book.
BRETT
No, I didn’t mean to –
MADDIE
(Smirks)
Sure, you didn’t.
BRETT
No, I swear…
David can’t help feeling a twinge of relief while watching Maddie and Brett leave the dance floor. Bert continues to look for the info he needs.
BRETT
Got it!
(David turns to Bert. He takes out a piece of paper.)
What the… oh… it’s my… grocery list. Agnes likes to remind me by slipping these things in… well… I’ll…
He continues searching. Deanna walks to the table holding two glasses.
DEANNA
Here’s our next round.
She’s still clearly agitated with David’s behavior, but masks her concerns with a smile and places the two glasses on the table and sits in her seat.
DAVID
So, how is Mrs. Viola? Are there any violins in your future?
BERT
Well, married life isn’t what I expected.
DAVID
That bad, huh?
BERT
No, sir. That good.
(David looks surprised)
Seriously. She makes me feel so glad I went through that arduous ordeal… the wedding, not the marriage.
DAVID
What about the honeymoon?
(Bert gives a huge smile)
Guess that answers that question.
DEANNA
Hello? Am I the only one who doesn’t give a damn?
DAVID
She’s right, Bertie. Let’s get back to work.
DEANNA
Is that what he’s doing? I thought he’s just making an ass of himself.
DAVID
Deana, easy.
BERT
Here it is!
(Pulls out the picture)
Sean Higgins. That’s our hitman.
Bert puts the picture on the table Deanna and David squints to see it.
DAVID
I can’t see.
He picks up the 8x10 and catches the photo on an angle the light strikes the picture. A sharp rush of adrenaline makes him quickly turn to see Maddie. She’s gone. He jumps out of his seat and sees the table of four is now empty. David tosses the photo on the table, grabs his sports jacket and sprints out without a word. While Bert and Deanna are left in bewilderment, the camera zooms in to see a close-up of Maddie’s blind date "Brett."
WHITE LETTERS APPEAR: "To Be Continued…"
Title art of the show appears. The instrumental version of the theme plays in the background.
MADDIE (V.O.)
Here’s scenes from "When David Met Maddie… Again" part two.
INT. – MADDIE’S KTLA OFFICE – NEXT MORNING
Maddie and Stacey are in the office.
STACEY
(Deflated)
Tell me how you scared away your latest victim.
MADDIE
Weird thing about it… I didn’t do anything. In fact, I let him kiss me…
Brett kisses Maddie on the sofa.
MADDIE (V.O.)
…and I actually liked it.
He holds a gun behind the sofa, slowly inches it upward.
Bert sits in one of the plush chairs in front of David.
DAVID
By the way, how’s Agnes?
BERT
(Distracted)
Agnes?
DAVID
Yeah, your wife.
BERT
Well, she’s fine.
DAVID
Uhh-huhhh… and Denise?
BERT
Denise…? She works with me.
DAVID
My question is, what do you and Denise work on?
David holds a gun at Brett (Sean).
BRETT (SEAN)
(Calm)
She told me how she reacted.
DAVID
That’s how I get when I keep someone alive.
BRETT (SEAN)
Someone you love.
DAVID
Look, I do this for a livin.’
BRETT (SEAN)
Is that what you told yourself while you were looking at us last night?
David and Bert walk around.
DAVID
So, where are they?
BERT
I’m almost sure I saw them.
David stops. He turns and gets into Bert’s face.
DAVID
(Gets serious)
You better be absolutely sure.
BERT
Yeah… I’m sure.
DAVID
I see them!
They start running through the mall.
Brett (Sean) and Maddie are in the back seat.
MADDIE
I… I don’t know. One minute I’m perfectly fine… the next… I …
(Holds her head)
my head.
BRETT (SEAN)
Hope this can make you feel better.
He gives her the paper bag. Maddie takes it then opens it. Her eyes roll to the back of her head. She passes out. Her head flops sideways onto Brett’s (Sean’s) shoulder.
David, wearing a tux, is driving.
BERT
Let me do it.
DAVID
You’re not doing this alone.
BERT
Go, Mr. Addison. Get your plaque, say cheese… be with your girlfriend. Why chance it? I’ll beep you when –
DAVID
I’ll be there in time, okay?
BERT
And if you can’t?
DAVID
They’ll understand.
BERT
And if she can’t?
David stares straight ahead; there’s a long silence.
Brett (Sean) wraps his arm around David’s neck; he holds a gun at David’s head with the other arm.
DAVID
The decision’s already made. It’s the only way.
Maddie holding a gun to a woman’s head.
MADDIE
No! The only way I let you die is for me to die with you.