LONDON GATWICK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT in England. Numerous passengers are deboarding a plane, hugging loved ones and shaking hands with associates. Smiling widely, BAILEY deboards the plane holding a small carry-on bag. He begins looking around the terminal, and he furrows his brows. His smile fades as he walks around the terminal, looking in all directions. After a futile search, he puts down his bag and pulls his cell phone out. He dials a number and hears a message: "Hello, this is Holly. I'm not home right now, but if you'll-" Bailey hangs up and sighs. He thinks for a moment, then dials another number. After hearing a beep, he enters his number and hangs up. He sits down and sighs, looking around the very busy, noisy terminal.
PO5 Credits
GOLDEN GATE PARK. KIRSTEN and PETE are sitting on a large plaid blanket laid out on the grass under a tall weeping willow tree. The park is busy with joggers, young children, and other people picnicking on the beautifully landscaped grounds. Pete is lying on his side, facing Kirsten. Kirsten is sitting crossed-legged, with STEWIE on her lap. She is trying unsuccessfully to spoon-feed Stewie, as Pete watches.
KIRSTEN: (Playfully) Come on, sweetie. (Lifting the baby spoon in the air) Look, here comes the airplane! Brrrr…coming in for a landing…open up, here it comes… (She swoops the spoon down toward his mouth. Stewie turns his head at the last minute, leaving a streak of mashed carrots across his cheek.)
PETE: (Chuckles) Looks like Stewie International Airport is closed. You'll need to re-route the plane.
KIRSTEN: (Lowering the spoon, smirking) Could you please pass me a wipe? They're in the diaper bag behind you. (Pete turns and retrieves the box of baby wipes from the bag. Kirsten places the spoon back into the baby food jar, and stretches out her hand to grab a wipe. Not noticing Kirsten's gesture, Pete pulls out a wipe and begins cleaning Stewie's face.)
PETE: (To Stewie) There you go, little buddy. Hey, I can't say that I blame you. Strained carrots isn't my idea of a tasty lunch either. (Reaches into the cooler, pulls out a cup of yogurt, opens it, and dips his spoon in, offering it to Stewie.) Try this. (Proceeds to feed Stewie, who readily accepts the yogurt.) That's better, isn't it?
KIRSTEN: (Mouth gaping) How…how did you do that? I couldn't get him to eat anything for the past week without a fight.
PETE: Have you changed his routine lately?
KIRSTEN: (Thinking) No. And I've been feeding him the same food he always ate before.
PETE: (Shrugging) Sometimes they just get bored eating the same old things all the time, wouldn't you? Their tastes change from time to time. They're people too, you know. I guess he was just ready for something new.
KIRSTEN: (Smiling) You're a genius!
PETE: It's simple, really.
KIRSTEN: Simple, but brilliant. God, why didn't I think of that? I guess that's why you're the pediatrician. (Pete puts the spoon in the cup, reaches across, and playfully nudges her leg.)
PETE: Awww…
KIRSTEN: I feel like such an idiot. Sometimes I feel like you know my own child better than I do.
PETE: Do you know how many years of schooling it took for me to learn a little common sense? So, please…don't be so hard on yourself. You're a fantastic mom. Stewie's a very lucky little man. He has a wonderful, caring, sweet, and beautiful mom. (Looking into Kirsten's eyes) A mom who loves him so much that all she wants is for him to be happy every second of every day. I don't have any children myself, but I know how it feels to love somebody that…completely. (Kirsten blushes.) And if you ever feel something's not right with Stewie, please don't hesitate to ask. You can count on me to always be there for you…both. (Just then an older couple approaches.)
WOMAN: Excuse us, dears. Could we trouble one of you to be so kind as to snap a photograph of us? (The woman extends her hand, clutching a camera.)
PETE: (Getting up) Sure.
WOMAN: Oh, thank you so much! We didn't mean to intrude. See, it's our anniversary...
MAN: …of the day we met…
WOMAN: …right in this very park, under the same tree.
PETE: Okay, ready? Smile! (They pose, as Pete snaps their picture.)
WOMAN: Thank you. (Pete nods, and hands the camera back.) You know, if you don't mind me saying so…you two remind me of me and Herb 35 years ago. Oh, we had the same sparkle in our eyes when looked at each other, too.
HERB: (Wrapping his arm around his wife) We still do. Right, Mona?
MONA: (Giggles) Oh, Herb. (To Kirsten and Pete) It's just so nice to see another young couple as happy as we were.
KIRSTEN: Oh, we're not--
PETE: Wow, 35 years? That's quite an accomplishment!
HERB: You'll see…35 years goes by in a blink when you're looking at a beautiful face.
PETE: (Turning and looking at Kirsten) Yes…I'll bet it does.
KIRSTEN: Pete. (To the couple) I'm sorry, but we're not a couple…
PETE: …Uh, she means since the little guy was born... (Kirsten's jaw drops.)
MONA: Oh, of course…you're a family now. Don't get me wrong. Being a family takes a lot of work. Having a baby does tend to make things more difficult. But it looks like you two are managing just fine. You'll be in love forever. I can tell by the way you two look at each other. (Kirsten blushes.) Just like me and Herb. Besides…you're sitting under the lucky tree. Well, we'll leave you alone now. Thank you again. You're a lovely couple, Mr. And Mrs...?
PETE: Oh, Peterson. (Herb and Mona smile and start walking away. Pete sits back down on the blanket.)
KIRSTEN: (Under her breath) Pete! Why didn't you tell them the truth?
PETE: I didn't want to hurt their feelings. They thought you and I were together. Besides, I kind of wanted to indulge in the fantasy a little…even if it was pretend. Are you angry?
KIRSTEN: (Softening) No. (Scrunching up her face, she sniffs Stewie's bottom and hands him over to Pete.) Okay, it's your turn for diaper duty. (Pete looks confused.) Hey, you wanted to play out this fantasy… (Puts her hands behind her head and lies down on her back.)
PETE: Wise guy, eh? (Places Stewie down next to him, leans over, and starts tickling Kirsten. They both break out in laughter.)
LONDON GATWICK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. BAILEY is sitting by himself at the now quiet terminal. He yawns and looks at his watch. He starts to slouch, making himself comfortable, as his phone rings. He jumps up quickly and answers.
BAILEY: Hello? (He listens, then smiles.) Holly, where are you? I was starting to get worried… (He listens again, and his smile fades.) What? Why are you still there? (The camera cuts to Holly standing at a counter at the hospital. She is holding her beeper.)
HOLLY: I'm sorry, Bailey. I tried calling you earlier, but your phone wasn't on. I'm going to be stuck here at work for a few more hours.
BAILEY: What?
HOLLY: I know, I'm sorry. But listen, I left a key to my place under the doormat. Why don't you take a taxi there and rest for a bit while I'm finishing up here…then when I get home, we can go out to dinner.
BAILEY: (Sighing) Well…okay.
HOLLY: (Smiling) Thank you for understanding. (Whispering devilishly into the phone) And I promise…I'll make it up to you tonight. (Bailey shakes his head, smiling.)
JULIA'S CAR. JULIA has just picked CLAUDIA up from the airport and they're driving back to Charlie's house.
JULIA: You're not going to believe this, Claud, but my boss at NOW asked me interview Kyle Morgan.
CLAUDIA: What? The lead singer from Judge Mental? You're kidding!
JULIA: (Smiling) Nope.
CLAUDIA: But I'm surprised NOW wants you to interview him - his lyrics are so degrading to women. That band's always getting reamed by the press.
JULIA: Well, that's the point. They want me to try to get him to talk about why he writes lyrics like that. I mean, it's not like we support his music, but it's controversial, and that's what people are interested in. And we need to make examples of bands like Judge Mental, to fight against the negative images of women in society.
CLAUDIA: Wow. Are you going to do it?
JULIA: (Looking nervous) Well, I um…kind of already said yes. It'll be my first big interview with a celebrity, you know? (Pausing) What do you think?
CLAUDIA: I think you should do it. There's no reason why not. It's a great opportunity to get some exposure. (Smiling) But I'd be so nervous if I had to interview him.
JULIA: (Grinning) I know. I don't like his music, but he's like so good-looking, isn't he?
CLAUDIA: Well, I wasn't thinking of it that way, but now that you mention it… (The girls giggle.) And speaking of good-looking, what's going on with Griffin?
JULIA: (Shrugging) Just the usual stuff. He's as busy as ever with Matthew.
CLAUDIA: Oh. I thought maybe with the two of you getting so close the last few months, you know…
JULIA: (Glancing over) What?
CLAUDIA: I just thought…well, I know how you feel about him, and I thought maybe something might have changed with you guys.
JULIA: (Sighing and shaking her head) Nope. It's the same old same old. (Slightly embarrassed) But I'll admit…it was tough being around him all summer and not being able to be with him.
CLAUDIA: Jul, why don't you just tell him how you feel? I've seen you together. JULIA: I can't, Claud. I know Griffin. He's got so much on his plate, he'll just push me away. (Pausing for a moment) I just need to be there for him, to support him as a friend with all of this custody stuff, and then we'll see what happens.
CLAUDIA: Well, don't wait too long, Jul. I can tell you, I almost totally messed up with Todd before the summer, and now I'm so glad I didn't let our relationship slip away. You shouldn't let Griffin slip away either. (Julia raises her eyebrows and takes a deep breath as she continues to drive.)
OUTSIDE OF CHARLIE AND KIRSTEN'S HOUSE. It is early evening, and KIRSTEN and PETE are just returning from their day at the park. They get out of Pete's car, climb the front stairs, and reach the front door. Pete sets down the picnic basket and the diaper bag, which he has just lugged up the stairs. Kirsten sets down the baby carrier, where STEWIE is fast asleep. She reaches into her bag, and pulls out the keys.
KIRSTEN: Thanks for a wonderful day. Stewie and I had a great time.
PETE: It was my pleasure, really. I had a great time too. I think I'd have a great time anywhere with you… (Kirsten smiles, lowers her head) …and Stewie. I can't believe how fast he's growing.
KIRSTEN: (Looking at Stewie) Yeah, I know. Scary, isn't it? (Looking back up to Pete) Oh, and, hey…thanks for the ride, and helping me carry all this stuff up. (She unlocks the door and opens it.)
PETE: At your service. Do you want a hand bringing it inside?
KIRSTEN: Oh, no. That's okay. I can take it from here. (She puts the diaper bag inside the door, and turns to Pete, pausing.) Um…I just wanted to tell you (looking down, and then back up at him) how much I enjoyed spending time with you this summer. You've…really become a good friend, Pete. (She looks down at Stewie.) To me and to Stewie. Thank you. (She smiles at him and he moves closer.)
PETE: (Looking serious) I'm glad you feel that way. I really enjoyed our time, too, Kirsten. You're a special lady. (Kirsten looks nervous as she looks into his eyes. He leans forward and hugs her, and she hugs him back. She closes her eyes as they remain in the embrace for several moments. Pete finally pulls back and winks at her.) Catch you later, Mrs. Dr. Peterson.
KIRSTEN: (With a blushing smile) Oh, Peter…
PETE: Bye, Stewie. (He waves to the baby carrier and heads down the stairs. Kirsten giggles and watches him leave, then goes inside and shuts the door, leaning against it and closing her eyes. She inhales deeply and lets out a long breath as the scene fades.)
HOLLY'S APARTMENT. BAILEY is sitting on the couch, changing television channels with the remote control. He stops on a channel and we hear the television announcer say, "Let's go live to Lance Clark, who's standing by at Wildersmouth Beach, where a shark-" Leaning forward, Bailey clicks the remote and hears an enthusiastic announcer: "Eight hungry people…but only one pie! Join us for TV's newest reality show-" Bailey sighs and clicks once more. His eyes open wide as a female announcer with a sexy voice says, "Only three pounds for the first minute…and two for additional minutes. Our girls are just waiting for your phone call. So…why be lonely tonight?" Bailey clicks off the television and sighs. He leans back and covers his face with his hands. As he does this, he hears a key in the front door. HOLLY walks in, still wearing her blue hospital attire.
HOLLY: Bailey, I'm so sorry. (Bailey stands up, and Holly hugs him.) You must be starved. (She quickly releases her embrace and begins walking briskly toward her bedroom, pulling off a band which held her hair in a pony tail.) Just give me five minutes to change, okay? We can go to that place you liked last time. You know…the one-
BAILEY: Holly, wait. (Holly stops.) I figured you'd be tired, so I, uh…I kinda ordered in. (Holly tilts her head.) Nothing fancy… (Bailey nods toward Holly's small, round dining table. Holly glances over to see two plates, each with a burger and fries, along with a melted candle and some hand-picked flowers.)
HOLLY: (Covering her mouth, smiling) Oh my God. Bailey, that is so- (She walks up to Bailey and hugs him again.)
BAILEY: (Smiling as they hug) If the lady across the street asks you if you know what happened to her flowers, just play dumb, okay?
HOLLY: I don't deserve you, do you know that? (They release their hug and look into each other's eyes.) I'm so glad you're here. (They slowly tilt their heads and begin kissing as the scene fades.)
CHARLIE'S HOUSE. It is dark outside and the porch creaks as Charlie turns a key in the lock. He opens the door slowly, trying not to make any noise. He rubs his eyes tiredly then takes off his jacket and hangs it on the rack. He turns around as he hears a voice behind him.
CLAUDIA: Charlie…you got a minute? (She has a blue blanket wrapped around her elbows.)
CHARLIE: (Smiling) Hey, Claud. I almost forgot you were coming back today…that's how out of it I've been.
CLAUDIA: Yeah. (Claudia lowers her gaze. Charlie puts a hand to her arm.)
CHARLIE: What's the matter? Why are you up so late?
CLAUDIA: Joe left a message on the machine. He seemed confused, like he didn't know what was going on. He was asking about the restaurant.
CHARLIE: (Confused) The restaurant? Well, did he say there was something wrong?
CLAUDIA: Yeah…something is wrong. (Charlie looks confused.) Julia told me, Charlie. (After a pause) Are you selling the restaurant? (Claudia gives Charlie a firm glare.)
CHARLIE: (Exhaling) Is that what this is about? (Charlie puts a hand to his forehead, closing his eyes.) Look, I was going to tell everyone about it before making a final decision.
CLAUDIA: Well, tell me now! Are you selling the restaurant?
CHARLIE: (Shaking his head) It looks like I might have to.
CLAUDIA: I can't believe this! (Claudia turns away.)
CHARLIE: Wait, Claud. I knew you'd act like this, so before you start just let me tell you that it isn't easy running two businesses all by myself. I mean, with the factory all day, and swinging by the restaurant after work, that's just too big a load for me or anyone else to handle. I can't do it anymore, Claud.
CLAUDIA: No one said you have to do it all.
CHARLIE: Well, if you're suggesting that I hire a new management team, just save it. Don't you think I've been trying? (Claudia looks to the side, shaking her head.) Besides, we can't afford to have a bunch of new people in training for any extended period of time. Why do you think Bay and I did it all these years?
CLAUDIA: Because you love that place! It's the family restaurant and we all love it. It isn't just something you can throw out when you're feeling too much weight on your shoulders! We have to do our best to try and keep it in the family because…it's part of our family. (Charlie sighs.) Charlie, don't you realize that it keeps us together? (Charlie shakes his head.) It was hard for all of us to cope when Mom and Dad died. It was, but we had things like the house and…the restaurant to remember them by. And now that the house is gone, the restaurant is all we have left. (After a pause, Charlie gently speaks.)
CHARLIE: I know how you feel. I feel the same way, too. I mean…emotionally, it's hard giving things up. But I'm not Dad. And for some reason you guys insist on me keeping his life warm, like he's gonna come back one day and congratulate me on a job well done. If we can't keep the restaurant, we're just going to have to deal with it.
CLAUDIA: (Raising her voice) How can you put it like that? That's like selling Owen off into child labor. Would you want us to just "deal" with that?
CHARLIE: Stop it! All right? Just stop because I get your point. I don't want to part with the restaurant anymore than any of you. It means a lot to me…all I'm saying is that it's time to think about other options here.
CLAUDIA: (Sharply) It's not an option. I'm sure Bailey will feel the same way as me, and our votes still count.
CHARLIE: (Shaking his head) You know what? You're wrong. Not when it comes to this.
CLAUDIA: (Dumbfounded) What?
CHARLIE: Look, a democracy was fine when we all shared the duties. (Adamantly) But now you guys are off living your own lives, doing your own thing hundreds of miles away. And I'm not saying there's anything wrong with that...I'm not. (He pauses, looking squarely at Claudia.) But I am saying it's about time I started living my life. (Charlie turns away and starts to climb the stairs. He makes it about halfway when Claudia speaks.)
CLAUDIA: I just want you to know that I'm not going back to school. I can't. Not if you're just going to sell the restaurant behind my back. I'll find a way to keep the restaurant even if you don't. (Claudia walks out of the room.)
LUKE AND DAPHNE's APARTMENT. LUKE is helping DAPHNE clear the dining room table. Daphne drops a plate, and it shatters into pieces. She starts crying. Luke walks over to her and helps her clean up the mess.
LUKE: (Chuckling) Honey, it's just a plate. It didn't feel a thing. (He gets a broom and dustpan and starts sweeping up the broken plate. He looks at Daphne and speaks softly.) What is it?
DAPHNE: (Sniffling and wiping her face with her arm, since her hands are full) Oh, it's just the stupid court thing next week. It's got me a nervous wreck. (She throws the broken pieces in the trashcan with force. They finish cleaning up the mess and Luke leads Daphne to the couch in the living room.)
LUKE: Tell me what's upsetting that pretty little head of yours.
DAPHNE: (Still tearful) I don't want Griffin to get custody, Luke. What if we lose Matthew?
LUKE: We're not going to lose Matthew, sweetheart. There's no reason whatsoever for you to even worry about that.
DAPHNE: (Looking up at Luke) But what if Griffin gets shared custody?
LUKE: Well, now, we've gone over this a hundred times. He'll most likely get at least regular visitations, Daphne. And I thought things had been going pretty well this summer. Griffin's been doing a good job with Matthew.
DAPHNE: (Brooding) No, he hasn't. He doesn't change Matthew when he should, and Matthew doesn't like going there.
LUKE: Come on, now, that's not fair. Griffin takes good care of Matthew.
DAPHNE: He cries all the time.
LUKE: Babies cry, honey. They fuss. Matthew cries when he's with us, too.
DAPHNE: (Crossing her arms) This whole summer has been one big hassle. It's not enough that I have to run around between Charlie's house and here with Diana, now I have to run around to Griffin's place with Matthew. It's just too much, Luke.
LUKE: Well, that's just the way it has to be. You can't hold it against Griffin that things are inconvenient. That's not his fault.
DAPHNE: Oh, and it's my fault?
LUKE: I didn't say that.
DAPHNE: Well, that's good because it's not like I planned this, Luke. I thought Matthew was your baby, Luke.
LUKE: (Getting annoyed) So did I, Daphne. But he's not, and it's time to face that fact. Matthew is Griffin's baby, and Griffin has the right to see him, whether you like it or not.
DAPHNE: (Stunned) What? What are you saying?
LUKE: I'm saying that the situation is what it is, and we need to make the best of it. If Griffin gets shared custody, then we'll work it out.
DAPHNE: I can't believe you're siding with him! Don't you care about us being a family?
LUKE: Of course I do! We'll still be a family, whether Griffin's in the picture or not. And I'm not siding with anyone.
DAPHNE: Well, it sure sounds that way.
LUKE: (Lowering his voice) You've got to stop this, Daphne. It's not good for Matthew. Babies are sensitive to negativity, you know that. We've got to make everything as positive as we can.
DAPHNE: (Scowling) God, you just make me so sick sometimes! You're like…Mr. Happy-Go-Lucky all the time! It's just not that easy, Luke. And I'm not giving up on this. You may be so weak that you're ready to give up, but I refuse.
LUKE: (Pointing a finger) I'm not giving up, Daphne; I'm being realistic. And until you decide to do the same, you're only going to make things hard for everybody. (Luke heads for the front door, walks out, and slams the door behind him.)
CHARLIE AND KIRSTEN'S BEDROOM. CHARLIE is sitting on the bed unbuttoning his shirt, and kicking his shoes off. KIRSTEN is in bed behind him, wearing sexy black lingerie. He doesn't notice, as he's looking frustrated as he speaks.
CHARLIE: It seems like it's getting more and more difficult to get Claud to understand that some decisions aren't up for a family vote anymore, you know? I mean, everybody's off doing their own thing, while I'm stuck with this…this curse of trying to keep things going. And for what? For the sake of a memory, I'm supposed to kill myself just so once a year, maybe, everyone can come back and have a meal together at Dad's restaurant? (Kirsten slides up behind Charlie, and starts rubbing his shoulders.)
KIRSTEN: (Speaking softly) Shhhh, shhhh. You'll straighten it out tomorrow. Just relax… (She leans in and kisses his neck.)
CHARLIE: Kirsten, this is really important… (He closes his eyes and leans back into her, as she continues to distract him.) God, that feels so good. I've been so tense. (Kirsten keeps rubbing his back and shoulders, and then she removes his shirt. Charlie turns around to face her and they begin kissing. After a moment, Kirsten pulls Charlie down into the bed with her.)
The WEST ORCHARDS SHOPPING CENTRE in England. Holding hands, BAILEY and HOLLY are walking through the mall, window shopping.
BAILEY: (Turning his head back as they walk forward) Hey, I didn't know you guys had "Supercuts" here, too.
HOLLY: (Smiling) That's what's so cute about you - you're so easily amused.
BAILEY: (Looking at Holly) I'm sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt. You were saying…?
HOLLY: (Sighing) Nothing…just that the hospital's been a little short-staffed with all of the summer internships ending.
BAILEY: (Looking down) Yeah…all but yours.
HOLLY: Bailey, I told you-
BAILEY: I know. "It's the chance of a lifetime"…and I understand that completely, Holly. I do. But that doesn't mean I have to like it.
HOLLY: I'm sorry. (After an awkward pause) Look, let's not waste our time talking about my work. (Smiling again) We're together now, so let's talk about nice things, okay? Things that make us happy.
BAILEY: (Softening) You're right. Make every minute count, right?
HOLLY: (Smiling) Right. (They walk on a few steps further, and Holly notices a store.) Oh, there's "Athena." Didn't you say you wanted some postcards?
BAILEY: Oh, yeah. (They begin walking toward the store when Holly's pager beeps. She checks the number.)
HOLLY: It's work. (Bailey looks to the side, biting his lip. Sounding determined) No, I'm not going to call. (Bailey looks at her, and she raises her eyebrows, shaking her head.) I'm not. This is our time, and…well, they're just going to have to make do without me. (Bailey smiles, and they walk into the store. They begin looking at various postcards.) What are we looking for?
BAILEY: Just something for my brothers and sisters.
HOLLY: Anything particular?
BAILEY: Not really…unless you see a postcard of the Three Stooges in front of Big Ben or something. Owen would flip. (They continue looking through more postcards. A moment later, Holly's pager beeps again. Bailey looks at her.)
HOLLY: (Looking at her pager) It's a 911. (Turning to Bailey) I think I'd better call. (Bailey silently hands her his cell phone and begins looking through the postcards again. Holly walks a few aisles away and dials the number. After one ring, a deep voice answers.)
VOICE: Dr. Collen.
HOLLY: Phil, it's me.
DR. COLLEN: Holly, thank God. I'm so sorry to bother you, but we need you here.
HOLLY: But Phil-
DR. COLLEN: We had to send Rachel home earlier. She almost collapsed from exhaustion. We really need you to cover…even for just a few hours.
HOLLY: But Phil, I- (She looks to Bailey, who was watching her talk on the phone but suddenly picks up a postcard and begins reading the back.) It's such a bad time for me.
DR. COLLEN: I know, and I'm sorry. But you know I wouldn't be calling if I had another option. (Holly closes her eyes, thinking.) Holly?
HOLLY: (Whispering) Yes…okay. But I'm not home right now. It'll be at least an hour before I can get in.
DR. COLLEN: You're a lifesaver, Holly…literally!
HOLLY: And only for a couple of hours, okay?
DR. COLLEN: Absolutely…and thank you! (Holly hangs up and turns toward Bailey, who is watching her from a few aisles away. Holly approaches him, handing him his phone.)
HOLLY: I'm going to have to go in…but just for a couple of hours. (Bailey rolls his eyes.) I'm sorry, Bailey. I wasn't given much of a choice.
BAILEY: (Holding up the postcards, coldly) Let me pay for these and we'll be outta here. (Bailey walks away, and Holly closes her eyes.)
CHARLIE AND KIRSTEN'S BEDROOM. CHARLIE is sitting at the edge of the bed with his head in his hands, and KIRSTEN is leaning back against the headboard with her arms crossed.
CHARLIE: I can't believe this. (He looks back at Kirsten.) I'm really sorry, Kirs.
I don't know what to say except…I'm sorry. (Kirsten doesn't answer right away.)
KIRSTEN: (After a moment, she speaks softly) It's okay, Charlie. It happens. I'm sure it's just all the stress you've been under, and you were upset when you came in, so…
CHARLIE: (Rolling his eyes and smiling with embarrassment) Well, it's never happened to me before. You know that. I'll tell you, if this is what running two businesses does, I'll be selling the restaurant for sure. (Kirsten moves closer to Charlie, and puts a hand on his back.)
KIRSTEN: I'm sure it was just bad timing. Maybe we didn't give you enough time to relax and unwind…how about if I give you a real back massage? And then maybe… (She leans over to kiss him, and he kisses her back half-heartedly.)
CHARLIE: (Breaking the kiss) Um…Kirsten, I don't think it's going to work tonight. Do you think…maybe we could just try tomorrow? I think I need to get some rest. (He looks at her hopefully. She leans back against the pillows, frowning slightly.)
KIRSTEN: Sure, Charlie.
CHARLIE: Thanks. (He kisses her tenderly on the forehead and then settles into the bed, and closes his eyes. Kirsten lays back and exhales deeply, her eyes open as she stares at the ceiling.)
DOWNTOWN SAN FRANCISCO. CLAUDIA and ROSS are exiting a music store. They walk past a newsstand and begin to walk through the city.
CLAUDIA: I just don't see why he has to sell it! If Joe's having problems, can't he just hire new management? What good does selling the whole restaurant do?
ROSS: New management costs money.
CLAUDIA: Ross, believe it or not you're beginning to sound a little bit like Charlie.
ROSS: Okay, okay. Then tell me again your reasons for wanting to keep it?
CLAUDIA: Reasons? I can name a ton. Number one, it was our parent's restaurant. Number two…well, it's all I have left of my childhood.
ROSS: Hey, come on. You still have your family.
CLAUDIA: But no one can see that when I'm away at school, I don't have them. They're completely across the country except for Bailey, who's too busy at school to even call. If the restaurant is gone, I won't have things I can touch - like the house…nothing tangible.
ROSS: That may be true. But you don't have the restaurant while you're at school, either. I mean, it's not like you can just go and eat there any Saturday night with the girls.
CLAUDIA: I know, but after a while, things just aren't as clear as they used to be… and I hope the memories don't start to fade. So when I come home, and I can sit at the same, familiar table I'm just filled with…these memories, of my mom…my dad. Just being together you know? The whole family in one place. (Claudia smiles.) When we ate there, my dad could never sit still, he'd always be telling the waiters to move faster, or giving orders to the cook…even when he wasn't working. (Claudia's smile expands.) My mom would tell us to trap him on the inside of the booth and sit as close to him as we could and not let him get away. Julia and I would hug him and "mush" him into staying. Just the smell of the restaurant brings back so many childhood memories.
ROSS: (Smiling) Wow. Those sound like great memories. I remember you when you were that little girl. You had that little three-fourths violin…and you were so…fiesty! (He laughs.) But you know, Claud, you're older than that now. You really should try to look at this from Charlie's point of view.
CLAUDIA: I have! He just wants less work and more money! And why are you against me on this? You should be on my side.
ROSS: I am, really. But things do change.
CLAUDIA: Believe me, I've been through changes. I didn't have a choice when my parents died. I just had to accept it. I had to accept leaving my childhood home because…things change. But why can't I change Charlie's mind about selling? I mean, if that's all we have left.
ROSS: I'm sorry. I know how much you've been through. I guess the reason that I'm bringing this up is because…I thought I would audition for the San Francisco Symphony one last time. I did and…I was offered a job. (Smiling widely) Second Violin!
CLAUDIA: (With a gasp) Ross! That's great! What made you try out again?
ROSS: Oh gosh, it's just been a dream of mine since I was so young. To play in a huge symphony, kind of like you'll be doing. And I just couldn't give up another chance like that.
CLAUDIA: Well, congratulations! I would say I'm proud of you, but that seems a little silly considering you were my instructor. (They both give a slight laugh.) One question…what does this have to do with selling the restaurant?
ROSS: Well…if it one day came down to playing with the symphony and instructing, I would choose the symphony. (Claudia gives a confused look.)
CLAUDIA: What's wrong with instructing?
ROSS: Nothing. I love it. It's just that, there are always going to be conflicts with doing both. While you might need the restaurant to keep your head on straight sometimes, Charlie is stressing out trying to manage the restaurant for the sake of the…
CLAUDIA: …memories. I know. I've heard it.
ROSS: So, all I'm saying is…think about it. And talk to Charlie. Maybe there's a way you can compromise, to somehow keep the memories alive while letting go at the same time. (He smiles and Claudia nods as the scene fades.)
HOLLY'S APARTMENT. BAILEY is alone, lying in Holly's bed. There are no lights on, but Bailey is wide awake. He turns to look at a digital clock on the nightstand. It reads 9:43 p.m. He rolls over and exhales exaggeratedly.
THE FACTORY. CHARLIE is sitting at his desk, talking on the phone. His tone is very sarcastic and he appears to be very irritated.
CHARLIE: Look, what part of "no" don't you understand? I already told you three-fourths of my business is local, so… (He listens, then speaks resignedly.) Fine, send me your literature. (Charlie hangs up and notices Luke standing in the office doorway.)
LUKE: What was that all about?
CHARLIE: (Leaning back, rubbing his eyes) Ah, some guy trying to sell me an 800 number. "Think of the global opportunities you're missing." (Shaking his head) No thanks! (Luke smiles.)
LUKE: Hey, have you got a minute? There's something I've been meaning to talk to you about.
CHARLIE: Uh, sure. (Luke closes the door behind him, and Charlie raises his eyebrows.) Luke, you're not…you're not quitting, are you?
LUKE: (Smiliing) What? What makes you think that?
CHARLIE: Nothing…it's just that I've never seen you close that door before.
LUKE: No, it's nothing like that, Charlie. (Charlie exhales in relief.) Actually, I wanted to talk to you about Daphne.
CHARLIE: Daphne?
LUKE: Yeah. The thing is… (He thinks, and then starts over.) Look, Charlie - you and I both know how she can be sometimes. She gets her mind set on something, and nothing can change it. Not reason, not facts…nothing.
CHARLIE: (Smiling and nodding in agreement) You got that right.
LUKE: So you know what I'm talking about?
CHARLIE: Oh, yeah. Believe me…
LUKE: Well, that's what I wanted to ask to you about. You know, the whole thing with Griffin.
CHARLIE: (Looking down) Look, Luke - I'd really like to help you… (shaking his head) but if you're looking for ammunition to use against Griffin, I'm not-
LUKE: No, Charlie…I'm not. (Charlie looks up, and Luke sighs.) Look, let's put the cards on the table, okay? I know you think Daphne's wrong for seeking full custody of Matthew-
CHARLIE: (Waving his hand) Luke, I never-
LUKE: It's okay, Charlie. The thing of it is, I agree with you. (Charlie looks surprised.) Griffin's done nothing to make anyone think he'd be anything but a good father…and I've tried to get Daphne to acknowledge that, but…well, we already had that discussion. (Charlie nods.) You've known her longer than I have. Do you know of a way to make her see things for how they really are?
CHARLIE: (Laughs in spite of himself) I'm sorry, it's just…I feel like I'm in a time-warp or something. I mean, I used to wonder that myself on a daily basis. (Luke looks down.) I'm sorry, Luke. (Shaking his head) But when it comes to understanding why Daphne does what she does, I'm kind of like the dunce in the corner. (Luke sighs.)
HOLLY'S APARTMENT. HOLLY walks in and looks at a clock, wincing as she sees it read 10:20 p.m. She is holding a fast food bag.
HOLLY: Bailey? (She places the bag on the kitchen counter, then proceeds down the hall.) Bailey, are you awake? (She sees Bailey sitting on her bed. He's fully dressed, and looking down.) Oh, there you are. Come to the kitchen…I brought you some- (She notices his packed bags just inside her bedroom door. Looking at the bags) What's this? (Bailey says nothing, and Holly sits down next to him on the bed.) Bailey, what's going on?
BAILEY: (Looking up) I'm leaving.
HOLLY: (Shocked) You're what?
BAILEY: (Looking down) There's a red-eye leaving in a few hours, so I switched my flight. (Looking up at her) I'm going home.
HOLLY: Because of my working? (Bailey is silent.) Bailey, what do you think? Do you think I don't want to see you? You think I'd rather be at that hospital instead of spending time with you?
BAILEY: (Looking down, softly) No, I don't think that.
HOLLY: I tried, Bailey. I worked 60-hour weeks for a month so I could lobby to get time off while you are here.
BAILEY: (Quietly) I know.
HOLLY: Is it my fault that I'm needed at the hospital?
BAILEY: (Quietly) No.
HOLLY: A hospital isn't like other jobs, Bailey. When shifts are missed at a hospital, we can't apologize for the inconvenience, give them a complimentary drink at the bar, and then seat them at the best table once it becomes available. (Bailey looks at her.) We're dealing with people who have to have someone at their side within seconds at any given moment.
BAILEY: Holly-
HOLLY: I can't believe you're holding this against me!
BAILEY: (Raising his voice) Holly! (In his normal tone) I'm not mad, okay? There's no need to get all defensive. (Sincerely) I know you did your best to make time for me.
HOLLY: Then…why are you leaving?
BAILEY: Because the truth is…I'm just in your way here.
HOLLY: That's not true.
BAILEY: It is, Holly. I mean, look…you know that going in today was the right thing to do, right? But you were almost ready to do the wrong thing because of me…and I was willing to let you do the wrong thing, just because that's what I wanted. (Shaking his head) That's not right. (Holly looks down.) I guess…I guess I'm starting to realize that… (looking down) love isn't enough.
HOLLY: (Looking up abruptly) Bailey, don't say that. Why are you saying that? (A tear forms in her eye.)
BAILEY: Look Holly, a year ago we agreed to try again to see where things take us. You didn't want to because of the distance, but I convinced you to at least try because we love each other, remember? (Holly nods, sniffling.) Well, here we are a year later, and we still love each other, right?
HOLLY: (Softly) Of course we do.
BAILEY: But has anything progressed beyond that? What I mean is…are you ready to take the next step?
HOLLY: But what is the next step?
BAILEY: That's what I mean…we don't even know. It's like, it was fine to give our relationship a chance a year ago, but now it's too far along to just "see where things take us." At some point, we're going to have to decide where to take things ourselves…and we haven't done that. (Quietly) And I think the reason we haven't is because…we'd have to face the fact that our goals just don't cross paths. (Holly looks down.) You're well on your way to becoming a doctor, Holly…here, in England. And me, I don't know exactly what I'm going to do…but I'm pretty sure whatever it is, it's not gonna take me out of the States. (Lowering his head to look into her eyes.) You see what I mean? (Still looking down, Holly nods, sniffling.)
HOLLY: It's just so odd, Bailey. (Looking up) Couples break up when they stop loving each other, not…not when… (She stops herself.)
BAILEY: But sometimes… (moving a bit closer to her) sometimes they do it when - no matter how much they love each other - there are things beyond love that just make it impossible. (Holly looks up.) So yeah, we can go on the way things are because the love is still there, knowing that at some point we're going to have to ask where it's leading to...and maybe lose that love. (Gently) Or, we can realize that…life doesn't always make things so easy. Yet despite that, we never stopped loving each other. (They look at each other for a moment, then Holly reaches out to Bailey, who hugs her tightly. They both begin crying as they hold their embrace.)
HOLLY: I love you, Bailey Salinger. And I always will. (Bailey begins crying harder as they continue their embrace. The scene fades.)
THE FACTORY. CHARLIE and LUKE are working in the office. GRIFFIN walks up to the doorway and talks to Luke.
GRIFFIN: Luke, Jennings is here to see you.
LUKE: (Looking at his watch) Is it 4:00 already? (Getting up) Thanks, man. (He walks out of the office, and Griffin walks in.)
GRIFFIN: Charlie, you, uh, got a minute?
CHARLIE: Yeah, sure. What's up? (Griffin looks out to the floor, then closes the door to the office.)
GRIFFIN: I, uh…I kinda wanted to talk to you about Daphne. (Charlie looks to the side, smiling and laughing to himself.) You okay?
CHARLIE: (Looking at Griffin) Yeah, fine…it's, uh...it's nothing. (Nodding) Go on…
GRIFFIN: Well, we've got this court thing coming up, and…you've known her for a long time, so - I don't know - I thought maybe you might know the best way for me to approach things with her. It seems like every time I talk to her, she just gets madder and madder. I don't want this to turn into something worse than it already is.
CHARLIE: Look, Griffin - I'm pretty underqualified when it comes to understanding her myself. I mean, when she left me and Diana, (shaking his head) it just blew me away that anyone could justify doing something like that, you know? Abandoning your own child. (Griffin exhales, and Charlie continues more slowly.) But the thing is, given time, she usually makes the right decisions. (Griffin looks up.) I mean, she decided on her own that she wanted to take part in Diana's life. I practically begged her to do that when we were together. (Looking down) But it was when I stopped begging her…when I stopped pleading with her to see it my way…that she finally thought about it herself. (Looking up) And then she did the right thing.
GRIFFIN: (Taking this in) So…what you're saying is, it's kind of up to her. There's nothing I can do about it.
CHARLIE: Sure there is. (Griffin looks confused, and Charlie nods.) Keep being a great father. (Griffin smirks embarrassedly, and Charlie smiles.)
LONDON GATWICK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT in England. A long shot of a British Airways jet begins panning closer to a window. With red eyes, BAILEY looks out of the window, staring blankly at the terminal. A tone is heard, and the captain announces to prepare for take-off. Bailey closes his eyes and leans his head back on the seat.
CHARLIE'S HOUSE. The door is wide open as CLAUDIA stands at the foot of her bed, packing a suitcase. She takes a pair of pants and folds them as CHARLIE walks across the hallway. He notices Claudia and stops at the doorway. He steps up and knocks on the wall.
CHARLIE: You're uh…packing. So have you decided to go back to school? (Claudia zips up the suitcase and begins to take out another one.)
CLAUDIA: (Opening the new suitcase) Yeah. Are you surprised or something? To see that I'm not whining and complaining to get what I want?
CHARLIE: Nobody said that. Listen, Claud…I thought about what you said, and I know where you're coming from. I'm not going to sell the restaurant behind your back. This is a decision the whole family has to make. Not just mine.
CLAUDIA: (Folding a shirt.) Sell it. (Charlie pauses to think.)
CHARLIE: (Stepping into the room, confused) What?
CLAUDIA: Sell it, Charlie. I'm not going to be the one to get in your way this time. I'm not going have everyone angry at me. So just sell it.
CHARLIE: Claud, what are you talking about? No one will be angry at you for not wanting to sell. You have a legitimate reason.
CLAUDIA: And so does everyone else. Look, you got what you wanted, so why are you arguing with me?
CHARLIE: I'm arguing because this isn't the same Claudia I know. All right? You aren't fighting for what you want. And to be honest, I'm a little worried. Why are you all of a sudden on my side? (Claudia looks into Charlie's eyes, then she folds her arms and sits on the bed.)
CLAUDIA: (With a deep breath) What happened to Dad…I don't want that to happen to you.
CHARLIE: (Joining her on the bed) And what happened to Dad?
CLAUDIA: You probably didn't even notice because you had been spending less and less time with the family. But then again you were like nineteen or something, so who could blame you? Dad was pretty caught up at the restaurant. That place has a reputation for just sucking you up. It's a handful.
CHARLIE: (Nodding his head) It is. It's really a handful.
CLAUDIA: Sometimes Dad wouldn't come home until one or two in the morning. And he left in the morning, so it's like I never saw him during that whole year when business was booming. I could tell Mom was getting lonely. We would go to see him at dinner sometimes because we knew he wouldn't come home until way after closing time. I remember Mom finding out that he would stay and have a few beers before coming home. At the time, I didn't realize he was an alcoholic, so I didn't see what the problem was. After Joe confronted Bailey about drinking it all made sense. Mom was trying to stop Dad's drinking. I remember them fighting. She would beg him to stop but he was always too drunk to listen. It was hard to sleep when they would get into fights because they were so loud…so one time I just I got in the middle and begged them to stop. He was angry so he kind of…flailed out in frustration, and…he accidentally hit me.
CHARLIE: (Staring at her) You're right. I didn't know about that. (Speaking softly and putting his hand on her back) Hey, I'm sorry that happened.
CLAUDIA: I know he didn't mean it and that he felt bad, so after that he stopped spending so much time at the restaurant. (Claudia looks up to Charlie's eyes) But you see, he made a choice. His family over his restaurant. You've got the factory that you love. And now it's time for you to make a choice, and I want you to make the right one. For Kirsten and Stewie, and Diana…and for us.
CHARLIE: Look Claud, nothing is final yet. I just might hire new management. I don't know yet.
CLAUDIA: (Smiling) Okay. (Looking into Charlie's eyes.) Do you think they were happy? Mom and Dad, in their last few years?
CHARLIE: (Smiling) Of course they were, Claud. I mean, they had their ups and downs with worrying about me running off all the time, but I was nineteen…I was off their hands. They still had you and Bay and Jul…and Owen. Of course they were happy.
CLAUDIA: Then I want you to be happy…like them.
CHARLIE: Thanks, Claud. (He leans over and they hug tightly.)
OUTSIDE BRAINWASH, A CLUB IN SAN FRANCISCO. JULIA and MICHELLE are walking on the sidewalk, looking for a taxi. They are giggling and Michelle stumbles a little bit.
JULIA: Boy, it's a good thing we didn't drive here tonight.
MICHELLE: (Slurring her words) You're telling me! (A small group of guys walk by.)
FIRST GUY: Hey girls, how about a drink? (The girls giggle and lean into each other.)
JULIA: No thanks…our drinks have already been drunk. (She laughs a snorting laugh.)
SECOND GUY: Aw, come on…just one more?
MICHELLE: Maybe next time. (The boys smile and walk on. A taxi appears on the street. Michelle waves and jumps up and down.) Oh! Over here! (Michelle puts two fingers in her mouth and blows hard, trying to whistle. She only manages to get out a tired wheeze. She doubles over with laughter, as does Julia. The taxi pulls up to the curb.)
JULIA: Wow, good thing you can whistle like that.
MICHELLE: Yeah. (Julia helps Michelle get in the taxi, and they lean back against the seat. Julia gives the driver the address and the taxi starts moving.) So, there were a lot of lookers there tonight, eh? That guy you were talking to was really hot…what was his name? Rick?
JULIA: Nick. And come on, you had like five million guys talking to you. I lost track.
MICHELLE: I did? (She starts laughing again.) Oops.
JULIA: (Smiling widely) You're too much. Don't you remember giving your phone number to that sexy blonde, um…Michael?
MICHELLE: No…
JULIA: Well, I'll bet he's going to call you! Then what are you going to say?
MICHELLE: Wrong number? (The girls laugh again for a moment, then Michelle takes a deep breath.) What about you? Did you give Rick your number? (She nudges Julia.)
JULIA: Nick. Anyway, no! What kind of girl do you think I am? (Michelle looks worried. Julia holds a piece of paper up and waves it at her.) But he gave me his… (Michelle rolls her eyes.)
MICHELLE: I knew it. I knew it. That's great, Jul.
JULIA: (Shrugging) Yeah, I guess so.
MICHELLE: What, didn't you like him?
JULIA: It's not that, he was really nice and all, it's just…I don't know.
MICHELLE: Did he have bad breath or something?
JULIA: (Grinning) No, he was fine. (Looking serious) I guess I'm just not really interested in anyone right now.
MICHELLE: (Half to herself, slurring) Except Griffin.
JULIA: What?
MICHELLE: (Drunkenly loud) I said, except Griffin. (Julia stares and starts to speak but Michelle interrupts her.) Come on, Jul, you can't fool me. Anyway, it's okay.
JULIA: (Pausing for a moment, biting her lip) God, I don't know what's wrong with me. I just can't seem to get past this…whatever it is, this hold that Griffin has on me, you know? Or maybe I'm just drunk.
MICHELLE: You're definitely drunk…and that's probably why you're telling the truth. (Leaning closer) He feels the same way about you, Julia.
JULIA: What? No, he doesn't. I mean…we spent practically the whole summer together and nothing happened.
MICHELLE: He's just (she hiccups) distracted right now because of everything with Matthew. But he's crazy about you.
JULIA: (Shaking her head) I don't think so.
MICHELLE: I know so. I was with him when he was going nutso after you took off to Washington with that Jason guy.
JULIA: Justin.
MICHELLE: (Waving her hand) Whatever. Anyway, he cares about you a lot, Julia. Enough to get on a plane and fly out there and make sure you were okay. Remember?
JULIA: (Starting to get excited) I guess you could be right.
MICHELLE: I am right. Don't give up on Griffin, Julia. He just needs some time. You'll see…just a little more time and he'll come around. (She smiles and Julia smiles back as the scene fades.)
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