Home of the Braves--Original TV Pilot

TEASER

EXT. BRAVE HOUSE -- DAY
SIMON, ancient and shaky, carries a box in both his hands. He shuffles up to a rundown three story VICTORIAN HOME in a nice suburban neighborhood. The house is large, and was a grand beauty in her day, but now needs of lots of TLC.

Simon stops to take in the house. He is on the brink of tears as he smiles and makes his way slowly up to the porch.

EXT. BRAVE HOUSE PORCH -- MOMENTS LATER
Simon walks up to the front door which is wide open. He hesitates and looks around.

SIMON
Hello? Hello? Anyone there?

No one answers. He pokes his head in and looks around.

INT. BRAVE HOUSE - ENTRYWAY -- CONTINUOUS
While Simon is looking around, he hears VOICES AND LAUGHTER.

SIMON
Knock knock. Hello?

MARIANNE
Oh, hold on! I'll be right there!

A very attractive woman MARIANNE in her mid thirties comes from around the corner dressed casually in jeans and a knit shirt. She smiles when she sees the old man.

MARIANNE
I'm sorry. I was busy in the kitchen. May I help you?

SIMON
I don't mean to bother you, but are you the lady of the house?

MARIANNE
I am.

SIMON
Well, I heard that Hazel got herself some new owners, and I wanted to come down and see for myself.

MARIANNE
I'm sorry--Hazel?

SIMON
The house. Her name is Hazel.

Marianne smiles, but is slightly confused.

MARIANNE
Did... you used to live here?

SIMON
I was born upstairs--in the big bedroom.

Marianne's eyes widen as does her smile.

MARIANNE
Oh my goodness. Please, please come in.

Marianne helps him through the door.

MARIANNE
Please, let me help you with that.

She takes the box.

MARIANNE
I'm Marianne Brave.

SIMON
I'm pleased to meet you, Miss Brave. I'm Simon Colepepper.

MARIANNE
Mister Colepepper, come this way and we can sit down.

INT. BRAVE HOUSE KITCHEN -- CONTINUOUS
Simon enters the kitchen followed my Marianne who has the box. The kitchen hasn't been touched since 1967. Simon looks around, and Marianne helps him to a seat at the kitchen table.

Also in the kitchen, taking measurements of the cabinets is NATHAN, in his mid thirties, dreamy in jeans and a t-shirt that shows his muscular build. He looks up when they walk into the room.

MARIANNE
Nathan, this is Mister Colepepper.

SIMON
(to Marianne)
Please, call me Simon.

MARIANNE
Okay, I will, if you will call me Marianne.
(to Nathan)
Simon used to live in this house.

SIMON
I was born upstairs. Third bedroom on the left.

Nathan smiles and extends his hand.

NATHAN
(with a soft Oklahoman accent)
Well, it's nice to meet you, Simon. Welcome back.

Marianne puts the box on the table while Simon and Nathan shake hands. Simon looks past Nathan.

SIMON
I see my cabinets are still here. My, they are beauties!

Marianne and Nathan exchange amused looks since the cabinets are hideous.

SIMON
They don't make them like this anymore.

MARIANNE
Simon, can I get you some ice tea?

SIMON
Why certainly, dear. That is very kind of you.

Marianne goes over to the fridge.

SIMON
(to Nathan)
Your wife is a very gracious hostess.

Both Nathan and Marianne shoot each other surprised looks while Marianne grabs the ice tea.

MARIANNE
Oh, Simon, I'm sorry. I didn't make the introductions clear. Nathan is my neighbor, not my husband.

SIMON
Oh, I'm sorry about that.
(to Nathan)
You look like you're up to some "honey do's."

NATHAN
Well, I'm just here to double check some measurements.

MARIANNE
Yes. I need new... curtains. Nathan is a seamstress, I mean a seamster. No. A tailor? I'm not sure what the proper term is, but he's a whiz with a sewing machine.

Marianne brings Simon his tea. Nathan glares at her.

SIMON
Why, thank you, dear.

MARIANNE
Simon, do you live far away now?

SIMON
No. Just over in Quartz Hill, but I thought it was about time to return a few precious items that really belong in this house.

Excited at the prospect, Marianne takes a seat while Nathan looks on.

MARIANNE
Wow, really? I love stuff like that! I'm dying to know more about the history of this house. The people I bought it from were clueless.

SIMON
More like imbeciles!

Marianne is surprised and amused by his sudden attitude.

SIMON
I tried to pass these on to them, but they weren't interested.

MARIANNE
(surprised)
Well, that's not right. I can't imagine refusing things that used to be in this house.

SIMON
Some people just don't have any appreciation for history.

Simon pulls the box close to him. His hands shake with age. Marianne looks on with anticipation. Simon opens the lid, reaches in and pulls out a LARGE OLD BOOK. Marianne's eyes light up. On the cover in fancy faded gold lettering is the word "GUESTS."

SIMON
This was our guest book. It used to sit in the foyer.

He hands it to Marianne who gladly accepts it and immediately opens it. She looks at the first page that is blank, and then goes to the next and next. They are all blank. She looks up at Simon.

SIMON
Mother hated visitors.
(beat)
Don't worry, young lady, there's more.

Simon reaches back in the box and pulls out a mangey OLD MANNEQUIN HEAD with what looks like a long mohawk, scaring Marianne half to death.

Marianne has to stop herself from audibly gasping, and Nathan has to stop himself from laughing. Simon is clueless to either of their reactions.

SIMON
Now this is not something that you see every day. This hair was my mother's.

Marianne looks helplessly past Simon at Nathan who couldn't be enjoying this any more. Simon strokes the matted hair.

SIMON
Starting from when she was a teenager, Mother would take the hair from her hairbrush every night and put it in a box. By the time she was twenty-three, she had enough hair to have this made. It's called a "fall." She could sweep it up on top of her head, or let it fall down her back. Look. It comes off.

Simon pulls out a pin, and sure enough, the hair piece pops right off, causing Marianne to grab her heart and move back.

NATHAN
Well, would you look at that?

SIMON
Now, don't worry, Marianne. I don't expect you to put this old head on display or anything. That would be ridiculous.

Marianne looks relieved.

SIMON
I acquired this after I had moved away. It's only the hair that should be displayed. Now, it might look really good framed behind glass. It's such a beautiful shade of auburn. Maybe you can braid it or add something pretty. I sold Mother's jeweled comb and her dresser set on that "eBay." Cha-ching! Maybe you can find something there.

Simon admires the wig and then hands it to Marianne, but not before he picks something off of it, throws it on the floor and stomps on it.

Marianne looks at the floor, over at Nathan and then at Simon. She cautiously takes it and puts it on the table far in front of her. Simon reaches back in the box. Nathan comes in even closer to see the show. Simon pulls out a TINY BOX and shakes it. It sounds like LITTLE ROCKS CLINKING.

SIMON
Can you guess what's in here?

MARIANNE
Somebody's teeth?

SIMON
Sea shells.

Marianne is confused, but relieved. Simon opens the box and shows them to Marianne and Nathan.

SIMON
When I was six years old, my parents took me to the sea shore for the very first time. I picked up these tiny shells and have had them ever since.

MARIANNE
Oh Simon, you should keep those. It seems like they mean a lot to you.

SIMON
No. I have had them long enough, and no one on eBay wants them. Idiots. It's time they are returned to their first home. Hazel should have them.

Nathan is standing behind Simon and mouths the question "Hazel?" Marianne sees, but ignores him.

MARIANNE
Simon, that is so kind of you. I really can't thank you enough.

Nathan leans in closer with a smirk.

NATHAN
Any other treasures in there?

MARIANNE
Oh, these are more than enough.

Simon pats Marianne's hand and looks at her very seriously.

SIMON
Well, just remember, Marianne, that this house will be here long after the worms finish with you. You do not own this house. Hazel cannot be owned. You are just one of her many, many caretakers.

MARIANNE
(trying to be serious)
I feel that way too, Simon. But without the worms.

Simon starts to get up.

SIMON
I was hoping to see more of the old girl before I have to go.

Marianne pops up too.

MARIANNE
Oh, certainly. You go right ahead, Simon. I'm right behind you.

Simon shuffles out of the kitchen, leaving Nathan still smirking at Marianne.

MARIANNE
(whispering)
Sorry about the seamstress thing. I didn't want him to know I'm ripping his cabinets out.

NATHAN
And what lesson did we learn about fibbing today?

Marianne narrows her eyes shooting Nathan a snotty look and then looks down at the wig. She suddenly shutters like snakes are crawling all over her. She recovers, looks helplessly at Nathan and then turns to follow Simon.

Nathan watches her leave and looks over at the table where the hair piece is. He sees something, rolls up a magazine that was on the counter and hits what we assume is a creepy crawly right next to the hair.

END TEASER

ACT ONE

INT. BRAVE HOUSE PARLOR -- NIGHT
Marianne, in the same clothes from the teaser, uses a heat gun to help get layers of white paint off of some built in bookcases. MUSIC is playing the b.g. She turns the contraption off and starts scraping with both hands, enjoying what she is doing. Her PHONE RINGS. She reluctantly picks up the phone.

MARIANNE
Hello?

INTERCUT
INT. BRIAN'S HOUSE - AMBER'S BEDROOM -- CONTINUOUS
AMBER, 12 years old, visibly upset, is sitting in a corner with one ear plugged and the other with her cell phone up to it.

The room is sparse and doesn't look lived in. We hear SCREAMING in the background, not blood curdling, but of a young boy having a tantrum.

AMBER
Mom?

MARIANNE
Hey sweetie, what's going on?

AMBER
Austin's having a major meltdown again. It's been going on for almost an hour, and Dad is clueless.

MARIANNE
Amber, I can't--

AMBER
(interrupting)
Mom, Dad is about to lose it, and stupid Mia left the house crying fifteen minutes ago.

Marianne TURNS THE MUSIC DOWN.

MARIANNE
Amber, what am I supposed to do? Your father hasn't called me. I can't just come over there.

AMBER
Mom, Austin is calling for you, and Dad is stupid! Every one here is stupid. Mom, you have to help.

Marianne hesitates for a few seconds.

MARIANNE
Give the phone to your Dad.

INT. BRIAN'S HOUSE - AUSTIN'S ROOM -- CONTINUOUS
AUSTIN, 9 years old, is on the floor SCREAMING AND THRASHING. BRIAN, 36, is sitting next to him trying to calm him down. Austin kicks his hands away. Amber comes in with the phone.

AMBER
I called Mom.

Brian looks at Amber ticked, but then almost relieved. He gets up and takes the phone.

BRIAN
(to Amber)
Make sure he doesn't hurt himself--or you. Stay clear of his feet.

Brian leaves the room and closes the door.

INTERCUT
INT. BRIAN'S HOUSE - HALLWAY -- CONTINUOUS
Brian gets far away enough to speak on the phone.

BRIAN
I did not tell her to call you.

MARIANNE
She is upset, and doesn't think you can calm Austin down.

BRIAN
I'm trying my best, Marianne, but you know once he gets past a certain point, there is nothing you can do.

MARIANNE
There is always something to do, Brian.

BRIAN
I don't have your patience. You have no idea how hard I'm trying not to get angry right now.

MARIANNE
You are no good to him if you are angry. You two will just feed off of each other.

Brian doesn't say anything and AUSTIN COMES UP IN VOLUME. Marianne takes a breath.

MARIANNE
I'm coming to get him. Stay with him and have Amber watch for me.

EXT. BRAVE HOUSE -- LATER
A car pulls up to the curb in front of the house. Marianne quickly hops out of the drivers side and Amber out the passenger side.

MARIANNE
Run and get the big white blanket from his closet. The front door is unlocked. We'll be right behind you.

Amber takes off for the front door. Marianne goes to the back seat and starts to get Austin out of a special harness. He is still CRYING LOUDLY, but not thrashing.

MARIANNE
Look, sweetie, we're home now. Amber's gonna get the big blanket and you'll be so cozy...

INT. NATHAN'S BEDROOM -- CONTINUOUS
The room is crammed full of boxes. Nathan, barefoot and in sweats, is WATCHING TV on his bed near an open window.

Austin's FAINT CRY comes through the window. Nathan sits up, grabs the remote and MUTES THE TV. He listens carefully.

INT. BRAVE HOUSE - PARLOR -- MINUTES LATER
Marianne has Austin swaddled tightly in a blanket, and is carrying him in her arms. Austin is WHIMPERING while Marianne is gently swinging him side to side.
Amber is right next to her looking around and racking her brain.

MARIANNE
The hammock is buried in the garage. I should have put it up. I don't even know if we have two trees close enough together for it. Oh man, I don't think I can carry him for much longer.
(to Austin sweetly)
We're gonna have to cut back your rations, lead booty.

AMBER
The porch swing!

MARIANNE
God bless your little pink heart. We have a porch swing. Perfect.

EXT. SIDEWALK IN FRONT OF THE BRAVE HOUSE -- CONTINUOUS
Nathan, who is now dressed, is walking briskly on the sidewalk toward the house, when he sees the front door open and Marianne hurrying out holding a huge bundle. Amber follows quickly and they make their way over to the porch swing.
Nathan stops where they cannot see him and watches.

EXT. - BRAVE HOUSE PORCH -- CONTINUOUS
Austin is still CRYING SOFTLY and whimpering. Marianne and Amber sit down and Amber helps Marianne position Austin until they both are comfortable.
They start to swing.

AUSTIN
(quietly crying)
Mommeee.

MARIANNE
It's okay, sweetie. Let's swing. Mommy and Amber will swing with Austin.

AMBER
Why don't you sing? It will help him.

Marianne strokes Austin's hair.

MARIANNE
Don't be sad, baby boy.
(to Amber)
I'm sorry, Amber. I'm sorry your weekend was ruined.

AMBER
I was happy to get out of there. It's still so weird with Dad and Mia. Do you know she tried to get Dad to take off Austin's shoes to walk on the carpet like the rest of us? But you know how he is about his feet.

Marianne smiles and nods.

AMBER
White carpet! What is she thinking? I won't even talk about her hippy healthy dinner. If Austin hadn't have had a meltdown, I might have.

Austin has already quieted and looks drowsy. Amber notices.

AMBER
Sing to him, Mom. Sing to me. Please.

Marianne looks at Amber and smiles. She takes a deep breath.

MARIANNE
(singing softly)
Stars shining bright above you. Night breezes seem to whisper "I love you." Birds singing in the sycamore tree, dream a little dream of me.

Amber lets her head fall backwards and closes her eyes as they swing with Austin in their laps.

MARIANNE
Say "Nighty-night" and kiss me. Just hold me tight and tell me you'll miss me. While I'm alone and blue as can be, dream a little dream of me.

Austin's eyes start to close.

SIDEWALK -- NATHAN
makes sure he is hidden well, but is entranced by this very intimate scene.

BACK TO SCENE:

MARIANNE
Stars fading but I linger on, dear. Still craving your kiss.

MARIANNE
I'm longing to linger till dawn, dear, just saying this. Sweet dreams 'til sunbeams find you. Sweet dreams that leave all worries behind you. But in your dreams, whatever they be, dream a little dream of me. Dream a little dream of me.

Marianne finishes her gorgeous lullaby and kisses a now sleeping Austin. Amber picks her head back up and opens her eyes. They are still swinging.

AMBER
I told you.

MARIANNE
Yeah. You know things.

Marianne looks over at Amber.

MARIANNE
Do you like it here, Amber? Is it feeling like home yet?

AMBER
It's a great house, Mom. It's a great home.
(beat)
And not half as scary as I thought. But I still won't go near that attic after sundown.

MARIANNE
(smiling)
Ditto. Or the shed.

AMBER
Or the garage.

They continue to swing.

SIDEWALK -- NATHAN
finally moves. He quietly turns to leave.

EXT. BRAVE HOUSE -- MORNING
Marianne waves to a little yellow short bus as it pulls away from the curb. She's dressed smartly and professionally. She turns to run back in the house.

MRS. DOWNING
Marianne! Darling!

Marianne turns to see MRS. DOWNING, watering hose in hand coming toward her from her yard next door. Mrs. Downing is 60-plus-years wearing a halter top and short shorts with a very bad fake tan and heavy makeup.

MARIANNE
Good morning, Misses Downing!

Mrs. Downing stops at the hedge still holding the hose.

MRS. DOWNING
You've been living next door for over three months, Marianne, dear... how am I ever going to get you to call me "Kitten"?

Marianne chokes back a laugh.

MARIANNE
I'm just afraid if I do, I'll have to fend off the actual feline variety. Amber has allergies...

Mrs. Downing laughs.

MRS. DOWNING
A sense of humor and perky breasts!

Marianne can't help but glance down at herself.

MRS. DOWNING
Honey, you might as well put a shovel on that porch of yours--you'll be having to use it to keep back all the men that will be after you.

MARIANNE
Oh, I hardly think so, Misses--

Mrs. Downing gives her a look.

MARIANNE
I mean Kit... Kitten. I assure you that's not the case.

MRS. DOWNING
Nonsense! You just need to take more advantage of what the good Lord gave you, honey. A little more leg would help.

Marianne looks down at her skirt which hits appropriately just at her knees.

MARIANNE
Well, thanks... Kit-ten. I'll keep that in mind.

MRS. DOWNING
If it's one thing I know, dear, it's what men want. Ooh! I'll let you borrow my Bedazzler!

INT. BRAVE HOUSE KITCHEN -- CONTINUOUS
Marianne walks in and kisses Amber on the cheek who is dressed for school and eating toast. Marianne grabs her purse and a briefcase.

AMBER
You look nice.

MARIANNE
The skirt's okay?

AMBER
Yeah.

MARIANNE
You don't think I need some rhinestones on my butt?

Amber stares at her blankly.

MARIANNE
Good. I'm meeting with Mister Peters this morning. Cross your fingers.

AMBER
Okay.

MARIANNE
Oh. Good luck to you on your Pre-Algebra test. See you this afternoon. Bye, sweetie.

Marianne heads to the back door.

INT. TRISH'S HAIR SALON -- LATER
Marianne, carrying a cup of coffee, walks through the door and toward the back passing the stylists and customers. She waves to one of the stylists, FERNANDO, who waves back as he is talking and cutting hair.

FERNANDO
And then she asked what I thought of a Dorothy Hamill doo for her. I told her that she didn't have the cheek bones or the macrame owl to go with it.

Both the CLIENT and Fernando LAUGH at his joke. Marianne continues and enters an office that has a view of the salon.

INT. TRISH'S OFFICE -- CONTINUOUS
TRISH is Marianne's age and very pretty, but has more of an edge. She has the phone and is dialing, but hangs it up when she sees Marianne.

TRISH
Look at you all dressed up.

Marianne spins around.

MARIANNE
Do I have the accountant thing down?

TRISH
You need to unbutton one more button.

Marianne shoots Trish an unappreciative look.

TRISH
What?

MARIANNE
It's Frank Peters, Trish. I don't want to give the man a heart attack. I want those granite countertops, and he needs to install them--while he still has a pulse. Hopefully in exchange for my incredible book keeping services.

TRISH
I'm just saying, men get stupider and more agreeable with each button.

Marianne sits down.

MARIANNE
Do you want me to start calling you "Kitten" as well? It's actually physically painful to call her that. And I'm telling you, Trish, your future is on display next door, and if that doesn't keep you in a hat and slathered with S.P.F. forty--nothing will.

Trish only smiles.

MARIANNE
I came by to tell you that I have to push our workout back to one-thirty. After Frank, I need to go over some numbers with Nathan. He is thinking about buying another house to flip and isn't sure if he can swing both.

TRISH
The suburban cowboy? Nice. This little business idea of yours seems to be working even without that button. Free custom kitchen cabinets, and possibly granite counters.

MARIANNE
I'm paying for the cabinets, just not the labor.

TRISH
Still. Any more unsuspecting men-folk who will labor for free and get you stuff at cost?

MARIANNE
I'm hoping to bag an electrician and a plumber by the end of the month.

TRISH
That's my girl.

Marianne gets up.

MARIANNE
You know that's a hunting, not a bedroom analogy?

TRISH
Yeah, yeah. Perish the thought.

MARIANNE
I'll see you at one-thirty.

TRISH
Hey.

Marianne looks at her.

TRISH
You look... happy. It's a good look for you.

Marianne smiles before she turns to leave.

ESTABLISHING SHOT -- EXT. NATHAN'S HOUSE -- DAY
Nathan's Prairie Style house is a work in progress, but unlike Marianne's, there is a lot of stuff happening on the outside. There are new windows and a new roof.

INT. NATHAN'S KITCHEN -- CONTINUOUS
Nathan's kitchen is stripped down to the bare bones except a makeshift sink with a hose and a small bistro type table with 2 chairs. Nathan has sawdust on him. He and Marianne are sitting at the kitchen table surrounded by paperwork. There is HAMMERING going on in the b.g. Marianne has just finished reading something and puts it down.

MARIANNE
It looks promising. If you can flip it quickly, I think you'll make a lot of money. You may even double it.

NATHAN
(always with a soft drawl)
My daddy used to tell me that the best way for me to double my money was to fold it over and put it back in my pocket.

MARIANNE
Does he disapprove about the way you make your living?

NATHAN
No, actually. He thinks it's good honest work, as long as I'm putting my own sweat into it.

MARIANNE
So, what's your time table for the flip on this house?

Nathan hesitates.

NATHAN
New things keep poppin' up. This house is tricky, and I want to do it right.

MARIANNE
So, no immediate time table?

NATHAN
No. Not any time soon, at least.

MARIANNE
Well, Nathan, you still have plenty for another mortgage if you don't mind staying upstairs in that one cramped room.

She moves some papers around.

MARIANNE
You know, maybe you can put all your power and resources into the new flip--get that done and sold, and then finish up this one.

Nathan lights up a bit.

NATHAN
Well, that's a thought.

MARIANNE
It's up to you. You have the money. The market's still solvent, and it sounds like a good house.

Nathan smiles.

NATHAN
I'm much obliged, Marianne Brave.

She hands him back his papers.

NATHAN
You know, I've never asked about your last name. Is it spelled like it sounds?

MARIANNE
Yes, Brave, as it sounds. It's Italian, so I'm told. It's my ex's last name, but in all honesty, I think his great great whatever made it up when he came over here. It was probably Braverino, Braverotti or something like that. No one will come clean.

NATHAN
It fits you.

MARIANNE
Oh, you think so?

Nathan smiles. It's quiet for a little too long. It gets awkward.

NATHAN
So, how's my man, Austin? He sure liked that tape measure of mine--now rightly his.

MARIANNE
I'm afraid to say that the tape measure has been loved on too much. It doesn't retract by itself anymore, but he still plays with it. Thank you, again.

They lock eyes for a moment. Marianne gets a little uncomfortable and looks away.

MARIANNE
But Austin is good. He loves to ride in that little bus.

NATHAN
I've seen him go by. He's usually got a grin on bigger than the outdoors.

MARIANNE
I would happily drive him to school myself, but he loves the bus so much, and the routine. With autism, it's all about the routine.

NATHAN
Us men need a solid routine, with or without the autism.

Marianne smiles. Of course he has a girlfriend.

NATHAN
So, I checked on your cabinets, and they're still about three or so weeks away from being finished. And at least two more weeks for shipping.

MARIANNE
I so appreciate you doing all this, Nathan. I know I would have screwed up the measurements somehow. And I can't wait to take a sledgehammer to Simon's monstrosity.

NATHAN
You know, I've been having second thoughts about those. Someone might pay good money to have 'em. Very retro.

MARIANNE
But they are chipped and are falling apart. I'm taking a sledgehammer to them--I've been looking forward to it.

NATHAN
I really can't let you do that.
Marianne stares at him dumbfounded.

NATHAN
I can't let you do that without me there to take a few swings myself. They get uglier each time I see 'em.

MARIANNE
I was about to take all your varnish away from you, Cowboy.

NATHAN
That wouldn't be very neighborly of you now, would it?

INT. MARIANNE'S BEDROOM -- LATER
Marianne's bedroom needs a lot of work, but it was gorgeous in its day, with a tray ceiling, fancy molding and trims, a big fireplace and a walk-out balcony. Some yellowed wallpaper is missing, the fireplace is blocked with plywood, and the wood floors need refinishing. There is only one dresser, a bed frame with a mattress and bedding, a small desk and a tiny nightstand.

Marianne is dressed in workout clothes and has a pair of tennis shoes in her hands. The PHONE RINGS.

MARIANNE
Hello?

INT. BRIAN'S OFFICE -- CONTINUOUS
Brian has a big, expensive private office with awards hanging behind him. He is playing with his name plate that says "BRIAN BRAVE."

BRIAN
Marianne, it's me.

MARIANNE (ON THE PHONE)
Brian. What is it?

BRIAN
I'm calling to check on Austin, and to apologize about last weekend.

MARIANNE (ON THE PHONE)
Austin is good. He's good now. We got him to sleep.

BRIAN
Well, I'm happy about that. Frustrated that you can pull it off, and not me, but happy. You have that mommy mojo thing going. You always have.

Marianne doesn't say anything. Brian fidgets.

BRIAN
I have a huge favor to ask of you, Marianne. I need you to please listen and let me finish before you answer.

MARIANNE (ON THE PHONE)
Fine.

BRIAN
My new house is just not working for Austin right now. It's a scary foreign place to him, with nothing familiar for him to relate to. And both times now, he's ended up freaking out. It ruins any chance I have to spend time with Amber.

MARIANNE (ON THE PHONE)
So, you don't want him to come over? You don't want to have visitations with your son??

BRIAN
Hold on, Marianne. I do want visitations with Austin. I do want to spend time with him, but it's not working out at my place.

MARIANNE (ON THE PHONE)
What? Are you gonna meet him at the coffee shop, or shoot pool with--

BRIAN
Marianne, listen. I was hoping you would let me come and see him at your place.

MARIANNE (ON THE PHONE)
No way, Brian.

BRIAN
Just until I can figure out how to get him to stay calm at my place.

MARIANNE (ON THE PHONE)
No. The more time he spends at your place, the more familiar it will become. He got used to being here because he was here.

BRIAN
It's more than that, Marianne. He hasn't seen much of me for the past several months. I think that if he sees me with the familiar things in your house--objects that he has been around all his life, it will be easier for him to relate to me. Your house is a safe place for him now, and I want to be associated with that safety... just for a while.

BACK TO MARIANNE--who is now standing and pacing.

MARIANNE
Brian, he can get used to your place. Maybe he should just have shorter visits and not overnighters for a while. I'm fine with that.

BRIAN (ON THE PHONE)
I thought about that, but he is so distracted when he comes over--he just runs around opening and closing every door and cupboard. I can't get him to color, to stack dominos, or even to sit for a video--nothing. Let me come by and visit him for an hour or two after work once or twice a week.

MARIANNE
Bri--

BRIAN (ON THE PHONE)
You pick the day, and you can do whatever you want, and not have to keep a constant eye on him. You can even go out if you want, Marianne. Please, please let me visit our son where he feels safe--where he's not stressed or over stimulated.
Marianne presses her lips together.

END OF ACT ONE

ACT TWO

INT. BRAVE HOUSE WORKOUT ROOM -- DAY
Trish and Marianne are in workout clothes and are on a treadmill and a exercise bike respectively. The room is nothing more than a big old bedroom with peeling wallpaper, but it has good bones, good light, and a walk out balcony that is shared with Marianne's room. There are a several pieces of workout equipment, and a fan is blowing on the girls.

Trish is trying to swallow her water so she can speak.

TRISH
No. You are not, Marianne! You cannot let that man into this house. You left your old house because you said that it reeked Brian from every room.

MARIANNE
I know, but--

TRISH
(interrupting)
This house is your sanctuary! It's a big, run down, potential money pit, but a sanctuary none the less. How can you let him in like this?

MARIANNE
It's complicated with Austin. Brian just wants to be with him. It's not about me and my sanctuary--it's about Austin getting quality time with his daddy. He needs Brian too.

TRISH
Hmmph. I hate it when you trump me with your "parenting" propaganda.

MARIANNE
Stretch marks equal great wisdom and borderline psychic insight...

TRISH
Oh, I just don't like this. Are you going to hang around while he's here?

MARIANNE
I don't know what I'm going to do. Most likely, they'll spend time together in Austin's room.

MARIANNE
Brian wants to be around what is most familiar to Austin, and his room is almost an exact replica of his old room. Well, you know that.

TRISH
Thanks to my mad photog skills. Brian should do what you did and make up Austin's room exactly the way it was in your old house. Switch.

Trish and Marianne both get off of their equipment. Trish lays down on a weight lifting table with her water bottle, but doesn't pick up any weights. Marianne gets on a stair climber, but doesn't climb yet.

MARIANNE
He doesn't have any of Austin's stuff. It's only until--

TRISH
(interrupting)
Until what? You find him with his feet up on your coffee table and a beer in his hand while he watches football?

MARIANNE
I don't want to talk about this anymore, Trish.
Marianne climbs without talking for a few seconds and Trish rests.

MARIANNE
So, Frank is interested in my offer, and not only for the granite countertops--he would love to give up his own bookkeeping for good. He still keeps everything in ledger books and has never used a computer in his life.

TRISH
So you actually will get paid after you work off the counters?

MARIANNE
Yeah, but now I'm thinking I could use him for more--all five bathrooms need either counters or new tile, and he does flooring, too.

TRISH
Does Frank Junior still work there?

Marianne stops climbing.

MARIANNE
Yes! He just gets creepier and creepier. It's like he's got a wife beater tee shirt permanently tattooed on him. Even if you can't see it, you know it's there. I still can't believe you dated him.

TRISH
I knew you were going to bring that up.

MARIANNE
You asked about him.

TRISH
Well, he wasn't that creepy in high school. He was just... cree. The pee didn't move in until later.

MARIANNE
Yeah, and became roommates with his mullet.

TRISH
And how about the cute cowboy? Will he be doing carpentry work in every nook and cranny of your house for the next twenty years? And if he does, can he please be shirtless?

MARIANNE
Speaking of creepy, "Kitten." Take a drink there and cool off. The man has a name, and a girlfriend.

TRISH
A minor glitch. Very minor. You have to admit he's "purdy."

MARIANNE
I am in no place to even be entertaining the notion.

TRISH
No place? Let's see. Your divorce is final. Brian will get remarried. You know that will happen. Where is your place? Where are you, Marianne?

MARIANNE
You know where I am, Trish. You made me a foam board chart, and have a little tiny Marianne pinned to it.

TRISH
With an itty bitty bikini on.

MARIANNE
I'm am solidly in "Stage Six" of the Grief Cycle. Hence the new house and the bookkeeping business.

TRISH
Still? I thought the house and the bookkeeping meant Stage Seven. Those are not baby steps. That's truly moving forward which comes with "Acceptance"--Stage Seven.

MARIANNE
No, it's still part of Stage Six.

TRISH
Huh. I need to reread that book. So, if you're still in the "Cautious Testing" phase, how do we get you to jump over to "Acceptance"? Because with acceptance comes dating, and with dating, comes dating stories to share with me.

MARIANNE
I am nowhere near dating, Trish, and even talking about it makes me want to dive right back into Stage Five headfirst.

Marianne starts climbing again.

TRISH
Fine. No more talking about it. I can wait to live vicariously through you. But you better make it worth my while.

Trish sits up and gets two small weights from the rack, places them on the bench, and has a light bulb moment.

TRISH
Hey... You never lived vicariously through me when I was single.

MARIANNE
Of course not. You scared me half to death. Thank God for Richard!

Trish smiles reluctantly.

TRISH
It wasn't that bad.

Marianne gets down, grabs her water bottle and sits next to Trish.

MARIANNE
Who picked up who from an abandoned semi trailer outside of Tijuana?

TRISH
Oh, wow. I forgot about that. That thing was hot during the day... and crowded.

MARIANNE
And who wired money to Norway because some sweater wearing Viking took all your traveler's checks while you were crashed in a youth hostile?

TRISH
Ah, Emil. He took my Walkman, too. It had my The Best of Seal cassette in it. I loved that tape.

MARIANNE
As I said, thank God for Richard.

Trish raises her water bottle, and Marianne lifts hers in turn.

TRISH
From whom all blessing flow.

INT. BRAVE HOUSE ENTRYWAY -- AFTERNOON
Marianne goes to open the door. Brian is standing there looking handsome in his power suit.

BRIAN
Hi, Marianne.

He holds up a take out bag and two drinks, one of which is a little milk carton.

BRIAN
I brought dinner for Austin and me.

BRIAN
Don't worry. It's grilled chicken tacos on whole wheat tortillas, and I had them leave out the chilies.

MARIANNE
I'm not worried. Austin is up in his room. Amber has an after school thing.

Brian looks around.

BRIAN
This is a huge place, Marianne. It has great bones. I'd love to help you if you need--

MARIANNE
(interrupting)
I've got it all covered, Brian. I'll show you to Austin's room. You two can eat in there if you like. I can bring up some plates.

BRIAN
That sounds great.

INT. AUSTIN'S ROOM -- CONTINUOUS
Brian enters first looking all around. Marianne follows.

BRIAN
It's amazing, Marianne. It's almost identical. The room itself is bigger, but it's pretty much the same room.

Austin is sitting at a little table drawing, and has not even looked up. Brian goes over and kisses Austin on his head.

BRIAN
Hey buddy.

MARIANNE
I'll bring up some plates.

Marianne turns to leave as Brian pulls up a little chair and sits next to Austin.

INT. BRAVE HOUSE KITCHEN -- LATER
Amber and Marianne are in the kitchen washing and drying dishes.

AMBER
So, since only five of us came to the meeting, we all get to be something. We'll find out what on Wednesday.

MARIANNE
Wow. Student government. I'm so proud of you. The eye of the tiger, that's what you have.

AMBER
Yeah, I'm a fighter all right. I know when to show up.

Marianne hands Amber a dish to dry. Brian shows up holding Austin's hand.

BRIAN
Austin was hoping that you might have a little ice cream for him.

He goes over to Amber and kisses her cheek. Marianne keeps on washing dishes.

BRIAN
Hey Princess.

AMBER
Hi Dad. What did you two do up there?

BRIAN
We drew lots and lots of roads with yellow dotted lines down them. We also put all the Scrabble tiles in alphabetical order.

Brian helps sit Austin at the kitchen table.

BRIAN
So, do you have any ice cream? I sort of promised.

Marianne goes over to the freezer and gets out a carton of ice cream. Amber grabs some bowls that she just dried and hands them to Brian.

AMBER
You want some, Dad?

Brian looks at Marianne who has gone back to washing her dishes and doesn't look at him. Amber has already handed Brian two spoons, and has one for herself.

AMBER
Come on, Dad. You can never say no to ice cream. Look, it's Moose Tracks.

BRIAN
Okay, you had me at Moose.

Brian starts dishing out ice cream for Austin. Austin is very happy and LAUGHS out loud. He jerks back and forth in his seat with a big smile.

BRIAN
Okay Austin, if you want more, then sit there and smile.
(beat)
Okay, here's more.

Amber laughs.

BRIAN
And if you want chocolate syrup, then be sure to pick your nose in the most public places you can think of. Oh, that's right--been there, done that.

Marianne continues to do her dishes with her back to everyone, but has a small satisfied smile on her face.

EXT. NATHAN'S PORCH -- AFTERNOON
Marianne knocks on the door, moves to the side of the door so as not to be seen. She has the hideous mannequin head by her side and a smile on her face.

BLARE, pretty, late twenties, opens the door.

Marianne, not seeing who was there, suddenly thrusts the head right in front of the open door.

BLARE
Aaahhhh!!!!!!

Completely startled by the scream and the fact that it isn't Nathan, Marianne pulls the head back but loses her grip. It drops and rolls right in front of Blare's feet, and Blare SCREAMS again and jumps back to avoid the head touching her feet. Marianne tries to corral the rolling head while also calming the screamer down.

MARIANNE
I'm sorry! I'm sorry! Holy crap! Oh, I'm so sorry.

Blare tries to breath and recover while she looks wild-eyed at Marianne who still tries to retrieve the rolling head but kicks it further out of reach.

MARIANNE
Please forgive me. I just, I was, I thought Nathan would answer the door.


Blare holds her chest, trying to catch her breath.

MARIANNE
Really, I am so sorry. I didn't mean to scare you. I'm such an idiot!

Marianne finally grabs the head and stands up, and blare gets a good look at her for the first time and quickly sobers.

BLARE
I'm okay. I'm not scared--just surprised... Uhm, Nathan's not here. He went to get us something to eat. Can I help you?

MARIANNE
I'm Marianne. I'm a neighbor and an accountant. I mean, I'm Nathan's accountant. I just came by to pick up some, some papers he wanted me to have. I, I can come back some other time. I'm so sorry to about this.

BLARE
No, I'm fine. Really.

They both stand there silent and awkward for a few seconds.

BLARE
Oh, I'm Blare.

Blare puts out her hand to shake, and Marianne readily shakes it after she switches the head from her right hand to left.

MARIANNE
Hi, Blare. It's nice to meet you. Uhm... Just tell Nathan that I will pick them up sometime tomorrow. The paperwork. I... I've got to go now. I mean we. Her and me. We've got a hair appointment.

Marianne holds the head up and then turns to go. She makes a frustrated face while she walks away, mouthing "STUPID" over and over again. Blare is still somewhat in shock watching her go.

INT. TRISH'S HAIR SALON -- 15 MINUTES LATER
Trish washes Marianne's hair. The salon is busy with four other stylists and clients waiting in the waiting area.

TRISH
A massive coronary. That's one way to get rid of the girlfriend.

MARIANNE
What was I thinking? Am I nine years old? I don't do stuff like that!

TRISH
That's not true. You used to jump out at me in our dorm when I would get up in the middle of the night to pee. Remember the first time you did it?

MARIANNE
I loved those shoes.

TRISH
Who knew my urine was toxic to suede?

MARIANNE
Well, then, I don't do that with people I don't know.

TRISH
You had no idea she would answer the door.

MARIANNE
I meant Nathan. I've never met her before. That shows you how well I know him. I mean, I knew he had a girlfriend. I saw her from afar when we first moved in, and I see a car I assume is hers from time to time.

TRISH
So, was she pretty?

MARIANNE
Yes... if you could get past the bulging eyes and the, the vein thing.

Trish finishes rinsing Marianne's hair, puts a towel around her head her and sits her up.

TRISH
What famous person does she look like?

MARIANNE
I don't know.

TRISH
Come on. Rosalind Russell, Grace Kelly, Mama Cass...

MARIANNE
Maybe a little Goldie Hawn.

TRISH
Laugh In Goldie?

MARIANNE
No. Foul Play.

TRISH
You can just say Kate Hudson.

MARIANNE
No, Kate doesn't have the eyes.

TRISH
Okay, so, did Goldie size up her boyfriend's hot accountant?

MARIANNE
I have no idea. Hazel and I were just trying to get out of there.

TRISH
I thought you said your house's name was Hazel.

MARIANNE
It is, but so is the hideous head hair thing. At least, that's what Nathan calls it.

Marianne giggles a little.

MARIANNE
He says that if I try to get rid of her, Hazel will crawl or roll back on her own volition and strangle me in my sleep. So, I've been keeping her locked in the garage.

TRISH
Interesting. You may not want to hear this, Marianne, but you are flirting with Tex, and he with you. You are entering Stage Seven, I'm telling you...

MARIANNE
Stop with the stages already--and he's from Oklahoma. And I can't be his accountant anymore. I acted like an escaped mental patient in front of his girlfriend. He can't entrust his business receipts with me anymore. I might lose them while I frolic in the ocean in my underwear. Oh, why did I wake up this morning?

Trish only smiles as she leads Marianne away from the sink. With them out of the way, we see one of the other stylists setting Hazel's hair.

INT. NATHAN'S KITCHEN -- CONTINUOUS
Blare sits at the tiny table stoically, when Nathan comes in carrying take out food.

NATHAN
You told me to surprise you, so I got Italian. How's penne with tomato basil marinara and bread sticks sound?

Blare just looks at him.

NATHAN
I also got two small salads.

Blare perks up a little.

BLARE
Sounds good.

She helps him unpack the food.

NATHAN
So, did Manny call? I need him and his guys to come by tomorrow to help with that upstairs tub.

BLARE
No, Manny didn't call, but a, uhm woman came by. She said she was your accountant.
Nathan does not betray a thing.

NATHAN
Oh, that would be Marianne.

BLARE
She also said she was your neighbor.

NATHAN
Yeah. She lives just two houses up.

All the food is unpacked and they start to dig in.

BLARE
When I opened the door, there was no one there. Then this horrible life sized doll's head with matted hair comes out of nowhere! I almost had an asthma attack.

Nathan laughs, but reins it in.

BLARE
What kind of a nut case does that?

NATHAN
It sounds like a joke, Blare.

BLARE
It wasn't funny. At least not to me.

NATHAN
I'm sorry you got scared. I didn't know you had asthma.

BLARE
I wasn't scared. I was surprised. And I do have asthma. I just haven't had an attack since I was twelve.

Nathan stifles a smile, while Blare makes a weak attempt to be casual.

BLARE
I didn't know you had an accountant. How long has she been working for you?

NATHAN
She doesn't work for me. We're trading services. She is doing some accounting for me, and I helped her order custom cabinets for her kitchen. I will install them once they come and do the finish work.

Blare takes a few bites and doesn't say a word, so Nathan continues to eat, but Blare seems unhappy.

NATHAN
Are you upset?

BLARE
(trying to keep it light)
No. I just am a little surprised. How long have you had this arrangement?

NATHAN
A couple of months.

Blare lets out a surprised reaction.

NATHAN
Is this bothering you, Blare? I'm no good with numbers. You're always telling me so.

BLARE
I'm not bothered. I mean, besides the scary doll's head, which I assume is an inside joke. I was just surprised to see her standing at your door looking so, so...

NATHAN
So what?

BLARE
She is really pretty.

Nathan shakes his head--rock and a hard place.

BLARE
I just wasn't expecting a really pretty woman, who seems to know you pretty well, to come knocking at your door with a severed head.

NATHAN
(joking)
Isn't that better than if she showed up in a slinky nighty and a bottle of champagne?

BLARE
No. Not really. This might be worse. At least with the nighty I could tell what her intentions were.

Nathan puts his fork down and grabs Blare's hand.

NATHAN
Blare. I like the pretty woman who is sitting across from me. Please don't read anything into this.

Nathan leans over and kisses her cheek. Blare smiles and seems satisfied--mostly.

FADE OUT:

END OF ACT TWO

ACT THREE

INT. BRAVE HOUSE PARLOR -- AFTERNOON
Marianne is curled up on her couch, has her laptop out, and is WATCHING TV. A loud THUMPING NOISE is coming from upstairs and Marianne glances up. Brian runs down the stairs with Austin tucked under his arm like a football. Austin is beaming and LAUGHING. Marianne also laughs.

BRIAN
This boy needs to use the facilities, but I'm not sure which of your eighteen bathrooms to use.

MARIANNE
The one across from Austin's room is fine. Just make sure you hold the toilet handle down for a while.

BRIAN
Perfect. Come on, buddy. Let's get you some readin' material while we're down here.

Brian goes through a stack of magazines.

BRIAN
Let's see... "Better Homes"... "Historic Homes"... Ooh... how about "Dominatrix Digest"?

He smiles and winks at Marianne. How can he still be so darn charming?

MARIANNE
And there are only five bathrooms!

A KNOCK comes at the front door.

INT. BRAVE HOUSE ENTRYWAY -- CONTINUOUS
Marianne opens the door. It's Nathan holding some paper work and smiling, almost smirking.

NATHAN
I hope it's not a bad time.

Marianne glances toward the stairs.

MARIANNE
No, it's a fine time. Come on in.

Nathan steps in and follows Marianne.

INT. BRAVE HOUSE PARLOR -- CONTINUOUS
They walk in and Marianne moves her laptop from the couch to the coffee table to make room for Nathan. Nathan sees what's playing on the TV.

NATHAN
Did I interrupt your teen musical soap thing?

MARIANNE
I'm screening a show that Amber wants to watch.

NATHAN
So, what's the verdict?

They both sit down.

MARIANNE
A recent study came out in which thousands of teenage girls were polled. The girls who watched shows where teens or young adults were portrayed as sexually active, were three times more likely to get pregnant than girls who did not watch those types of shows.

NATHAN
Are you going to get her a puppy instead?

Marianne smiles.

MARIANNE
I know it seems extreme to watch every show...

NATHAN
Actually, no. It makes perfect sense to me. I have no experience to speak of, but I can see that working. Does Amber mind much?

MARIANNE
She's used to my rules, and she keeps herself busy. She just got elected Vice President of her Seventh grade class, sort of.

Marianne TURNS OFF THE TV. She glances at the papers he's holding, knowing full well what subject will come up.

MARIANNE
Are those for me?

Nathan hands them to Marianne, and develops a slight smile.

NATHAN
You have no idea how sorry I am that I wasn't there when you came by yesterday.

MARIANNE
(shaking her head)
I'm such an idiot.

NATHAN
No, believe me, you're funny.

MARIANNE
Well, I bet Blake doesn't think I'm funny.

NATHAN
(still smiling)
Blare.

MARIANNE
Crap! See?

NATHAN
Well, I'm just sorry I wasn't there to see it. Talk about a Kodak moment.

MARIANNE
She must think I'm a lunatic waving that head around like that.

NATHAN
No, no. She doesn't think that.

Marianne looks at him seriously. Nathan gives in.

NATHAN
Okay. She might think you're hearing voices and what not. But she'll warm up. Blare's sense of humor takes a while to show, but she's got one.

Marianne smiles and then looks down at the paperwork, uncomfortable thinking about having to get to know her. Nathan looks around.

NATHAN
Those are great bookcases.

MARIANNE
Aren't they? I think it's cherry under there. What do you think?

Nathan gets up and checks out a spot she has stripped.

NATHAN
Definitely. Who in their right mind would paint over wood like this?

MARIANNE
Well, a little floating head told me that our friend Simon is the culprit.

Nathan smiles.

NATHAN
What are you going to use to strip these?

MARIANNE
I'm not sure yet. Austin is sensitive to strong odors, so I've been using a heat gun, but it doesn't get everything and it takes forever. Any suggestions?

NATHAN
I've got a closet full of strippers. I'll bring a couple by you can give a sniff.

A huge smile washes over Marianne and she laughs a little.

NATHAN
What?

MARIANNE
Did you at least drill some air holes for them?

It takes Nathan a moment, but he gets it.

NATHAN
Ah--strippers in the closet... My mamma taught me better than that.

MARIANNE
Maybe you need a puppy.

A MAN'S LAUGHTER comes from upstairs. Nathan looks up and then over at Marianne.

MARIANNE
Austin's father has come to visit him. It's a temporary thing until Austin can get used to Brian's new house. Austin has a fear of new places, or at least sleeping in them.

NATHAN
Sounds like they are having fun.

MARIANNE
Yeah.

We hear the FRONT DOOR CLOSE. Amber walks in and drops her backpack. Nathan is still over by the bookcases.

MARIANNE
Hale, Vice President.

AMBER
Hi Mom.

NATHAN
Hey Amber. Congratulations.

AMBER
Thanks.
(to Marianne)
Is Dad here?

MARIANNE
He's upstairs.

AMBER
I was just wondering. He got a new car and I don't remember what it looks like.

MARIANNE
Well, he's here.

AMBER
I'm gonna get a snack.

Amber leaves the room.

NATHAN
You know, I should get going.

Marianne stands up.

NATHAN
No. No, you stay there. I'll see myself out.

MARIANNE
What is it with you country boys? I can make it all the way to the door without fainting.

EXT. BRAVE HOUSE PORCH -- CONTINUOUS
Marianne and Nathan walk out the front door and stop.

MARIANNE
See, not even one tiny bit dizzy.

NATHAN
Glad to hear it.

MARIANNE
You're welcome to bring those strippers by for me to sniff anytime you want.

There is a moment of silence, but they are both smiling. Nathan tips his invisible hat and heads down the steps.

Mrs. Downing, cutting roses in some skimpy outfit next door, waves at Nathan.

NATHAN
Good afternoon, Misses Downing.

MRS. DOWNING
Call me "Kitten" Nathan darling! Don't make me come over there...

She watches him pass giving Marianne a big thumbs up. Marianne smiles and shakes her head.

INT. BRAVE HOUSE KITCHEN -- CONTINUOUS
Marianne walks in. Amber has the phone.

AMBER
Oh, she just walked in. Hold on.

Amber holds the phone up.

AMBER
It's Aunt Trish.

Marianne takes the phone. Amber leaves with her half eaten snack.

MARIANNE
Hey Trish.

INTERCUT
INT. TRISH AND RICHARD'S LIVING ROOM -- CONTINUOUS
Trish is reclining on her couch with her legs draped over her husband, RICHARD, good looking, mid 40s, who's reading.

TRISH
So, is he there?

MARIANNE
Nathan?

TRISH
I meant Brian, but Nathan is even better.

MARIANNE
Yes, Brian is here.

TRISH
Then why did you think I meant Nathan?

MARIANNE
Because he just left.

TRISH
Really? The hunky cowboy and the ex-husband under one roof at one time? How'd that go over?

MARIANNE
There was nothing to go over. Brian was upstairs and Nathan came by to drop some paperwork off... downstairs.

TRISH
Did you ask him to come in?

MARIANNE
Yes.

TRISH
That's more like it.

Marianne grabs a drink from the fridge.

MARIANNE
Trish, I don't have the energy for this.

TRISH
Did you talk about the girlfriend?

MARIANNE
Trish...

TRISH
Don't Trish me. It's a legitimate question.

Marianne softens a bit and sits down at the kitchen table.

MARIANNE
Okay, the whole Hazel-head thing came up. I told him how sorry I was that I scared her, and then I got her name wrong.

TRISH
Really?

MARIANNE
I said "Blake" and it was "Blare." I think.

TRISH
How marvelous. Seriously stupid name anyway. So, was it weird? Was he awkward talking about it?

Richard looks up at Trish and shakes his head.

MARIANNE
No, he said that he wished he was there to take a picture.

TRISH
Fascinating.

MARIANNE
Please don't read into this.

TRISH
Deny it all you want.

MARIANNE
Trish, please.

TRISH
This is it. Solid Phase Seven, baby.

MARIANNE
It is not.

TRISH
Bye bye, Phase Six. You're just a faint blip in the rear view mirror now. Getting smaller and smaller.

Marianne sighs.

MARIANNE
Is Richard there?

TRISH
He's right here, you want to talk to him?

Trish doesn't wait and hands the phone to Richard.

RICHARD
Hello Miss Marianne.

MARIANNE
Richard, your wife is exasperating me.

RICHARD
It's her other full-time job, my dear...

MARIANNE
Will you shove foam peanuts in her mouth, wash the dishes buck naked, or drop her cell phone in a wood chipper? Anything to get her off of my case.

He looks over at Trish who is smiling slyly.

RICHARD
I can do most of that. Do you want to say good-bye to her?

MARIANNE
No. You can do that for me, but fully clothed, please.

RICHARD
Can do, dear. Hey, Marianne?

MARIANNE
Yeah?

RICHARD
Take care.

MARIANNE
I will. Thanks Richard.

Richard hangs up, and smiles at Trish.

TRISH
What?

RICHARD
I have orders.

TRISH
Orders for what?

Richard grabs Trish and pulls her up on his lap.

TRISH
I think I like orders.

INT. HOME STORE -- DAY
Nathan has his cart parked in an aisle. He has a small screwdriver with him and is opening cans of wood stripper and smelling each one. He has a very strong reaction to one of them, and puts it back and opens another one. Blare comes up from behind him with some compact fluorescent light bulbs.

BLARE
These should last at least ten years, and just one bulb will save you forty-three dollars.

NATHAN
I hate that they take a few seconds to come on. Doesn't that bug you?

BLARE
It's not a few seconds. It's barely one. What are you doing? Are you suppose to open those?

NATHAN
I heard that some of this stuff can cause cancer or something.

BLARE
And you can smell which ones give you cancer?

NATHAN
I was thinking if they don't have a real strong smell, then maybe they won't be as bad for you.

BLARE
How very scientific of you.

Nathan puts another one in his cart. Blare starts to look at the products on the shelf.

BLARE
This one says that it's odor free, non toxic, and if it's accidentally consumed, it won't cause any harm.

Nathan takes it from her and reads it.

NATHAN
Well, I gotta try that out. Maybe I'll frost a cake while I'm at it.

BLARE
You know, there is some pretty decent furniture two aisles over. We should look.
Nathan is surprised and a bit uncomfortable.

NATHAN
I'm not interested in getting any furniture, Blare.

BLARE
But your kitchen table is so small and beaten up. You need a new one, and I can help you pick it out.

NATHAN
The table is beaten up because it's in the middle of a construction zone. If I got a new table, it would look like my old table in three days.

BLARE
I guess you're right.

Nathan starts pushing the cart and Blare follows.

BLARE
Do you own any real furniture? Do you have anything in storage?

NATHAN
I have all I need.

BLARE
Come on Nathan. Can you even furnish an apartment with what you have?

NATHAN
I don't need to furnish an apartment.

BLARE
Are you telling me you've always lived in one room with a double bed and boxes everywhere?

NATHAN
You know I've spread out before, Blare. But I can't right now.

BLARE
When will you "spread out" again?

Nathan looks at Blare while he is pushing his cart.

NATHAN
When I find a house like nothing else I've seen--something that grabs me, challenges me and makes me think that I couldn't possibly want anything else--that's when I'll buy furniture and spread out.

Blare looks at him, either not believing him, or not understanding him--maybe both.

INT. TRISH AND RICHARD'S LIVING ROOM -- EVENING
Richard, dressed to go out, is standing impatiently and looking at his watch.

RICHARD
(yelling upstairs)
We're already late!

TRISH
It's okay. Marianne always runs late.

RICHARD
No, "Patricia." That would be you. You always run late. Marianne is always punctual.

Trish enters putting a sweater over her blouse.

TRISH
Well, then, it's okay, because Marianne knows that I always run late.

She kisses his frustrated lips.

TRISH
I'm ready now. Let's skedaddle.

Trish grabs her purse.

RICHARD
Trish, you know how fond I am of Marianne, but won't you two have a better time without me?

TRISH
No back peddling now, Richard. We're recording the game. Come on, Brian is at her house right now. I want you there to be a strong male presence. He's been around too much lately, and I think she's actually liking it.

RICHARD
You want me to pee in strategic spots around her house?

Trish hands him the car keys.

TRISH
Do what you want. I can't stop you from doing it around here.

RICHARD
Hey... I was mowing the lawn in the backyard, and I didn't want to track mud and grass in.

Trish just looks at him smirking.

RICHARD
My shoes were double knotted!

INT. BRAVE HOUSE UPSTAIRS HALLWAY -- CONTINUOUS
Marianne, in a pretty dress for dinner, passes by Austin's room. Brian pokes his head out.

BRIAN
You look really... pretty.

Marianne is startled and very uncomfortable.

MARIANNE
Uhm... Thanks.
(beat)
So, uhm, I appreciate you staying so I can go out to dinner.

BRIAN
It was my idea. It's more time for me with Austin and Amber. We're making my Grandma Brave's famous spaghetti--lots of chili pepper. You either have to be a Brave to eat it, or just be brave.

MARIANNE
Yeah, I know.

Marianne, still uncomfortable, moves down the hall and Brian heads back into Austin's room.

INT. BRAVE HOUSE ENTRYWAY -- 15 MINUTES LATER
Richard and Trish still with their jackets on are standing with Marianne who has her coat over her arm. Richard opens the door.

MARIANNE
Oh, wait! My cell phone's in the kitchen. I'll be right back.

Marianne exits and Richard closes the door. Trish points to a corner.

TRISH
That corner looks just as good as any. Quick, before she gets back.

Richard barely smiles as she mimes for him to undo his zipper.

TRISH
Come on, Sweetums, think of a babbling brook.

RICHARD
I'm already thinking of you, Babe.

FOOTSTEPS are heard on the stairs. Brian appears with Austin. Trish is visibly unhappy, but Richard keeps up appearances.

BRIAN
Well, it's been a while. How are you two doing?

Brian sticks out his hand toward Richard. Richard takes it.

RICHARD
Good, Brian. We're good.

Brian knows better than to extend his hand to Trish.

BRIAN
Hi Trish.

TRISH
(flatly)
Brian.
(to Richard under her breath)
Forget the corner--get his shoes. I bet your urine is worse than mine.

Trish then gives Austin a big hug. She crouches.

TRISH
Hey Austin. Can you say "Aunt Trish?"

AUSTIN
(mimicking her inflections and pitch)
Say An Twish.

TRISH
Good boy! Aunt Trish loves you!

MARIANNE (O.S.)
Richard? I was wondering if after dinner you could help me with a window in my bedroom that's stuck. I have scraped all the paint away, I just don't have the muscle...

Marianne walks in and is surprised to see Brian with them.

RICHARD
It would be my pleasure, Marianne.

MARIANNE
Good. Uhm... Well, we should get going. Bye, little monkey.
Trish leans in to Richard while Marianne kisses Austin.

TRISH
This is your last shot. Maybe just a quick hose all around the entry.

MARIANNE
(to Brian)
Ask Amber to find a really old shirt for Austin before he eats the spaghetti.

BRIAN
Okay, I will. Have fun.

Richard opens the door and Marianne and Trish exit. Richard gives Brian one very long serious look before he exits.

FADE OUT:

END OF ACT THREE

ACT FOUR

INT. NICE RESTAURANT -- LATER
Trish, Marianne and Richard are all LAUGHING, and have almost empty plates. Light JAZZ MUSIC is playing in the b.g.

MARIANNE
He really sent him flowers?

TRISH
White orchids. Delivered to the salon.

MARIANNE
Poor Fernando.

TRISH
Poor Fernando, my foot. He's asking for it. He's convinced that he can only clinch a prospective client if they think he's gay. He breaks it gently to them later after they love the results, and him.

MARIANNE

Has he lost any other clients when he tells them he's married? To a woman?

TRISH
Only Phillip, so far. You know that lisp isn't real, and he played football in college?

MARIANNE
Phillip played football?

TRISH
No, Fernando.

RICHARD
He was a kicker--still a possibility he's gay. What is up with the lisps anyway? There is no way every gay man has a true lisp.

Trish glares at him.

TRISH
Keep your voice down.

RICHARD
What? Is that politically incorrect for me to wonder about that? I'm still not convinced he's not.

TRISH
You think a man is gay if he wears those short tennis socks.

RICHARD
You can tell a lot about a man by his socks.

TRISH
What? The stinkier the straighter?

MARIANNE
No, really, Richard. Believe me. Fernando loves his wife. He talks about Julie constantly.

TRISH
It's actually annoying.

RICHARD
I'm just saying, if you feel rotten and pretend to laugh, it actually lifts your mood. And you may soon find yourself really laughing...

Trish throws what's left of her roll right at Richard's head and it lands in his lap. Richard pops it in his mouth.

TRISH
So, Marianne, how's it been going with Brian... at your house?

MARIANNE
(uncomfortable at first)
Oh, well, he and Austin are having a really good time together. I mean Austin can have a really good time with a piece of string, but it's nice that Brian can see him when he's not screaming and trying to escape.

TRISH
So, has any progress been made at Brian's place to accommodate Austin better?

MARIANNE
We haven't really talked about that. I think once Brian feels like Austin has gotten used to him at my house, then he will be more receptive to being with Brian at his house.

TRISH
Well, they both seemed very happy together tonight. Very comfortable.
The WAITER appears to clear away their plates.

WAITER
Have you saved room for dessert? I can send over the dessert tray.

They all look at each other and Marianne looks at her watch.

MARIANNE
I really should be getting back.

RICHARD
(to the waiter)
If you can bring us the check, we'd appreciate it.

The waiter nods and leaves with the plates, but Trish looks disappointed.

RICHARD
And I'm ready to help you with that window. I'm all fueled up and ready to lift, or is it pull?

MARIANNE
Lift. I was able to get every other window working. A problem child, this one. It will probably squeak and rattle for the rest of its life.

TRISH
(whining)
But I want pie.

Richard and Marianne just stare at her.

TRISH

What? What's wrong with pie?

INT. BRAVE HOUSE ENTRYWAY -- LATER
Richard, Trish and Marianne come in and start taking off their jackets. Trish has a whole pie. Amber meets them at the door.

MARIANNE
Hey, stranger! How was your student counsel meeting? Have you overthrown the principal and promised free churros for all yet?

AMBER
That would be free Ding Dongs for all.

TRISH
Or pie!

Trish hands Richard the pie and gives Amber a hug.

TRISH
Oh, baby, you look more and more like your mother every day. I know I would have been mortified to hear that when I was twelve, but believe me, your mom was gorgeous even way back in the Dark Ages.

Amber is embarrassed. Richard waves the pie.

RICHARD
Hi Amber.

AMBER
Hi Richard.

Amber turns back to Marianne who is looking around.

AMBER
How was dinner?

MARIANNE
Great. Where's your dad?

AMBER
He's watching the game.

Trish shoots Richard a look which Marianne sees.

MARIANNE
Amber, will you show Trish where the filters are so she can get some coffee started? I'm going to see your father off.

Marianne heads toward the parlor.

INT. BRAVE HOUSE PARLOR -- CONTINUOUS
Marianne comes in where Brian is watching A GAME ON TV. He looks up when she comes in the room and smiles.

BRIAN
Did you have a nice dinner?

Marianne is unhappy.

MARIANNE
Yes, we did. How long has Austin been down?

BRIAN
I don't know... about forty minutes.

MARIANNE
I told you that you could leave once he was down. Amber is almost thirteen now, and I was close by.

BRIAN
I just wanted to make sure he was going to stay asleep, and I was visiting with Amber.

Marianne takes a moment and a breath. Brian TURNS THE TV OFF.

MARIANNE
Well, you can go now. Trish and Richard are staying for pie and coffee and I need to get back to them.

BRIAN
Oh. Oh, sure... Hey, I went ahead and fixed that window in your bedroom.

Marianne freezes. Her eyes wide open.

MARIANNE
What?

BRIAN
The window that was stuck--I forced it open. It wasn't that hard. It just needed one good shove.

MARIANNE
Whoa. Whoa. You went into my bedroom?

Brian is surprised. Marianne starts to pace.

BRIAN
Marianne, it's no big deal.

MARIANNE
Oh, this is not happening. This is not happening... Brian, how could you? How could you?!

BRIAN
How could I help you? There is absolutely no reason to get upset.

MARIANNE
Oh yes there is, Brian! I asked Richard to help me with it, not you! Richard! You know, tall, blue eyes, with my best friend Trish attached either to his face or his right arm? That's not you! So not you! Maybe Mia should start sewing your name in your underwear!

BRIAN
I just wanted to do something for you.

MARIANNE
You've done more than enough! Oh, I can't believe how stupid I've been. Stupid, stupid, stupid!

BRIAN
Marianne... calm down.

INT. BRAVE HOUSE KITCHEN -- CONTINUOUS
The occupants in the kitchen start to hear THE ARGUMENT. Amber stands frozen. Trish, who was cutting pie, glances over at Richard.

MARIANNE (O.S.)
I will not calm down, Brian! You, you give me this big sob story about how you want your son to associate you with a safe place, and weasel your way into my house--my house on a weekly basis!

BRIAN (O.S.)
I didn't weasel my way into this house!

MARIANNE (O.S.)
Yes, you did! I didn't want you here. I told you that Austin would get used to your house if you would just try a little harder to make him feel at home there!

BACK TO SCENE
Brian is now standing.

BRIAN
I can't believe this! You said that I could come over!

MARIANNE
You know what? You don't get to talk right now. This is my house and I'm not finished! Not only did you weasel your way into this house, which I bought to distance myself from everything that reminds me of you, but you have the gall to tell me that I was pretty today!

Brian almost says something but Marianne puts up her hand to stop him.

MARIANNE
You do not have that privilege anymore, Brian! I don't care if I'm smokin' hot and setting the curtains on fire! You gave up your right to speak your mind on that subject when you left me. And then, then, you go into my bedroom. My bedroom! Where up until this night, your shadow had never darkened even the most remote corner of. And you take it upon yourself to "fix" something?

INT. BRAVE HOUSE KITCHEN -- CONTINUOUS
Trish has her arms around Amber who is leaning her back against her. They both have tears, but Trish is smiling. Richard is leaning against a counter looking down.

MARIANNE (O.S.)
The irony is astounding! You, you, who brought the world crashing down on me and your children, waltz into my bedroom to fix something!

A moment goes by. Amber sniffs and Trish hugs her closer.

MARIANNE (O.S.)
There is nothing here for you, Brian! Nothing at all. The kids are yours, and God bless you in your relationship with both of them. But all that will happen at your place, not mine!

BACK TO SCENE
Marianne quiets down and takes a deep breath. Brian hasn't moved.

MARIANNE
I have photos of Austin's old room. I'll give you my list with the exact paint color on his walls, and the pattern of his bedding and curtains. We can arrange shorter Saturday visits for him until he feels comfortable there, but that's it. I'm done accommodating you.

Brian is looking down. A few seconds pass by. He looks up.

BRIAN
(Come on...)
Marianne...

MARIANNE
You need to go. We'll talk next week about the Saturday visit.

Brian grabs his coat and keys. Marianne stays put while he walks out.

INT. BRAVE HOUSE KITCHEN -- MOMENTS LATER
Marianne walks in. Everyone is sitting around the table. Amber looks at Marianne with red eyes.

TRISH
We should go.

Richard gets up and pulls the chair out for Trish. Trish gives Marianne a huge hug and whispers in her ear.

TRISH
Call me later tonight.

MARIANNE
I will.

Richard also gives Marianne a hug, and then they both leave. Marianne sits down next to Amber.

MARIANNE
I'm sorry you had to hear that.

AMBER
He didn't do it on purpose.

Marianne looks up for strength.

MARIANNE
I'm sure he didn't.

AMBER
He just wanted to spend time with Austin.

MARIANNE
And he will, Amber. I want him to spend time with Austin and with you. I just can't be solving his problems for him anymore, and I especially can't have him hanging around here. Do you understand that? Do you see why he can't be here?

AMBER
(her voice cracking)
Everything is so hard. When will it get easier?

Marianne hugs Amber.

MARIANNE
Oh, baby, I promise we'll throw a party the minute it does.

INT. MARIANNE'S BEDROOM -- LATER
Marianne still in her pretty dress she wore to dinner, stands in front of the window that is now open. The night breeze is blowing the gauzy curtains and her dress. She closes the window and then locks it. She reaches down and pulls up a can of thick white paint with a brush sticking out of it. She takes the brush out and starts painting, making sure to get the majority of it in the seams.

MARIANNE
Sorry, Hazel. But a girl's gotta do...

She looks up at the ceiling.

Marianne
Why didn't you just drop a big piece of plaster on his head? Or a beam? Yeah, a beam would have been good. It would have saved us both a lot of grief. A lot of grief.

She finishes with the paint and stands back looking satisfied. She grabs a rag and makes her way over to a small desk while wiping her hands. Hazel is propped up there with her freshly curled hair, and now has a wreath of tiny shells which Marianne touches. Sitting on the desk is the empty old guest book. Marianne sits down in front of it, picks up a pen and starts writing.

INT. MARIANNE'S BEDROOM -- LATER
Marianne, now in her PJs picks up her phone from the desk, plops on her bed and dials.

INTERCUT

INT. TRISH AND RICHARD'S BEDROOM -- CONTINUOUS
Trish sits up in bed WATCHING TV with the phone in her lap and Richard asleep with his back up against her. The PHONE RINGS and Trish answers it immediately.

TRISH
I am so proud of you, girl. Words don't do it justice. And when you referred to yourself as smokin' hot and catching the curtains on fire, I, I literally shed a tear. Richard almost had to gag me so I wouldn't yell out "Amen!"

MARIANNE
I was channeling you at that moment.

TRISH
I say you never put in new insulation in that place. I love your paper thin walls.

MARIANNE
Oh, Trish, you were so right.

TRISH
(quietly and thoughtfully)
I don't always love it when I'm right.

MARIANNE
He went into my bedroom, Trish. There are probably hundreds of skin cells he sluffed off in here now. How could I have been so stupid?

TRISH
You'll call an exterminator tomorrow and fumigate the place. Or Richard can come over and pee around the perimeter. He's a good aim.

Richard reaches over to softly hit her with a pillow. She takes the pillow and hits him back playfully.

MARIANNE
Exterminator it is.

TRISH
So, how's Amber.

MARIANNE
It's hard, but she seems to understand.

TRISH
You know what this means, don't you?

Marianne doesn't say anything, but slightly smiles.

TRISH
Marianne? I know you know what this means. Get it out. And that's not a hunting metaphor.

Marianne cradles the phone between her chin and shoulder while she gets down on her knees and reaches under her bed.

MARIANNE
I only exist for your own amusement, don't I?

She pulls out a BIG FOAM BOARD and props it up between the wall and her bed.

TRISH
It's better than Oprah.

The board is a handmade Kubler-Ross Grief Cycle with all seven stages on it (Shock, Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, Testing and Acceptance) in a graph. There is a little Marianne figurine pinned above "Stage Six: Testing." The figurine has a picture of Marianne's head superimposed on a model in a tiny bikini.

MARIANNE
I think little Marianne gets skinnier each time I see her. She needs sustenance.

TRISH
She can live on dust bunnies like real bikini models do. Go ahead. I've been waiting almost a year for this very moment.

Marianne unpins little Marianne and moves her over to the final stage, "Stage Seven: Acceptance" where Trish has added a rainbow, stars and a couple Chippendale dancers. Marianne smiles.

MARIANNE
Done.

TRISH
Hallelujah! How do you feel?

MARIANNE
I... feel like buying new skinny jeans, and maybe some boots.

TRISH
You do not! Don't toy with me, Brave.

Richard takes his pillow and puts it over his head.

MARIANNE
Boots are serious business, Trish. No toying allowed.

Marianne hears a CAR ALARM outside in the distance. She casually gets up and opens the french doors to her balcony.

MARIANNE
Maybe we can hit the mall on Thursday.

She walks out while still talking to Trish, the CAR ALARM LOUDER.

EXT. MARIANNE'S BALCONY -- CONTINUOUS

TRISH (ON THE PHONE)
You are serious. Holy cow... I need a moment.

MARIANNE
Can you get Fernando to take over for you tomorrow at lunch? That will give us a couple of hours before Austin gets home.

TRISH (ON THE PHONE)
Will you bring the pie?

Marianne looks down the street and sees a figure standing by a truck with the ALARM STILL GOING. She gazes wistfully over at the figure.

EXT. STREET IN FRONT OF NATHAN'S HOUSE -- CONTINUOUS
Frustrated, Nathan tries to get his CAR ALARM to quit beeping by pushing his remote over and over again. He finally gets it to stop. He pockets his keys and reaches in the back of his truck and pulls a tool box out.

We can see a figure standing back-lit on a balcony two houses away behind him. Unaware, Nathan heads for his house.

INT. MARIANNE'S BEDROOM -- LATER
V.O. plays over the action in the next several scenes.

Marianne, still in her PJs, walks over to the guest book where it is open to the page she had written on. She picks up the head Hazel next to it, and walks out of the bedroom.

CUT TO: MARIANNE'S HANDWRITING IN THE GUEST BOOK WITH THE VOICE OVER

MARIANNE (V.O.)
Dearest Hazel, As your first official guest entry, I want to take this opportunity to tell you what an honor it is to be here, and how much I enjoy every squeaky floor board and your countless sumptuous details.

INT. NATHAN'S BEDROOM -- CONTINUOUS WITH V.O.
Nathan's hair is wet and he has a towel around his neck over a tee shirt and sweat pants with bare feet. He is moving boxes and looking for something. He moves several things before a hard guitar case appears. He gently grabs the handle and lifts it up. He takes it over to his bed, wipes some dust off of it with the towel.

MARIANNE (V.O.)
I've heard it said that if you want to hear God laugh, then tell him your plans. So I try not to look too far into the future. Mostly because I'd probably run screaming, or fall over laughing if I got a real glimpse, but also because I enjoy a good surprise.

INT. BRAVE HOUSE GARAGE -- CONTINUOUS
Marianne flips on the light and walks over to an old trunk. She opens it and gently places Hazel in it. She closes the lid and locks it.

MARIANNE (V.O.)
So I know that I am nothing but a tiny leaf who was blowing past your turrets, and in a flurry, somehow found a safe corner to rest for a moment. And even though I understand that the wind or rain will pry me loose some day, I was hoping to leave my own special imprint before I go.

BACK TO NATHAN
He lifts out a beautiful, yet well loved acoustic guitar. He gets comfy on his bed and STARTS TO TUNE IT. He smiles as he gets each string just right.

MARIANNE (V.O.)
And just so you know that I want this to be a give and take relationship, I wanted to give you permission to leave your imprint on me. Surprise me. Inspire me. Challenge me. I welcome it, and can feel it has already started.

INT. MARIANNE'S BEDROOM -- CONTINUOUS
The room is lit only by moonlight now. Marianne closes the double french doors to the balcony and opens all the windows except the one she painted over earlier. Each pair of curtains blows playfully, and Marianne lets the breeze chill her.

MARIANNE (V.O.)
I'm in awe of what you've seen, so many lives come and gone, so much love given and lost. I feel like we're on a journey together, and I wanted you to know that with you surrounding me on every side, I somehow feel brave.

BACK TO NATHAN
Nathan starts to PLAY SOME CHORDS. He messes around until he finds the chords he wants. He PLAYS AN INTRO and then starts to softly sing.

NATHAN
Stars shinin' bright above you. Night breezes seem to whisper, "I love you." Birds singin' in the sycamore tree, dream a little dream of me.

END OF SHOW