CHARLIE’S HOUSE. JULIA is walking down the stairs as she yawns and runs her fingers through her tousled hair. Still in her pajamas, she almost trips over Owen, who is being chased up the stairs by a friend. GRIFFIN is sitting on the couch enthralled in a movie.

JULIA: (As Owen whizzes by) Watch it! (Calling to Griffin) Griffin, aren’t you watching these two?
GRIFFIN: (Still staring at the TV) Uh-huh, yeah…in a minute…
JULIA: (Walks over to the TV and shuts it off) If you’re gonna let Owen have friends over you need to be watching them. (She points to Owen and his friend as they run down the stairs and into the kitchen.)
GRIFFIN: (Heavy with sarcasm) We sure are pleasant today.
JULIA: Don’t start with me…
GRIFFIN: (Noticing her unkempt appearance.) What's with the new look? (The doorbell rings.)
JULIA: (Walking toward the door) You wouldn't look so great after two hours sleep either. (Julia opens the door, and her expression changes to shock as she sees who it is.) Justin!

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

CLAUDIA’S DORM. CLAUDIA enters her kitchen and begins to pour herself a cup of coffee. TINA walks in and grabs a snack as Claudia sorts through a small pile of mail on the counter.

CLAUDIA: Hey…was there any mail for me? I’m kind of expecting something.
TINA: Nope…just what’s there. The rest was junk…I threw it away. (Slightly sarcastic) I mean, I wouldn’t want to leave any garbage lying around.
CLAUDIA: (Disappointed) Oh…well okay. (Noticing an envelope with a hand-written address sticking out behind some other envelopes in the garbage, Claudia reaches into the trash and pulls out the pile of mail. The hand-written letter is addressed to “Miss Claudia Salinger”.)
CLAUDIA: (With a raised voice) Hey - This isn’t junk! Didn’t you even look at what was here?
TINA: (Irritated) Look…I don’t need you yelling at me. If I made a mistake, like, I’m sorry, okay? But lay off - you’re going to get me all worked up before my next class and everything. (Tina quickly leaves the room. With a sigh and a roll of her eyes, Claudia opens the letter and begins to smile.)

Hi Claud,
It’s just me writing to tell you how much I miss you. Northwestern is absolutely great, but it would be so much better with you here. I keep your picture by my bed so you’re the last thing I see before I fall asleep! My roommates have asked who that “hot chick” is, and I couldn’t help but show off. Aren’t I the lucky guy? Well, we have a few extended weekends coming up, so maybe we can visit? A guy can dream, can’t he? Well, I better go do some homework. Please write me soon--I need to hear from you!

Love, “the luckiest guy in the world”
Todd

(As Claudia finishes the letter, Heather walks into the room. Claudia holds the letter to her chest.)
HEATHER: Hey, what’s that your reading?
CLAUDIA: Oh…just something from a very special guy…

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

The CAMPUS BOOKSTORE at the University of Pennsylvania. With backpack in tow, BAILEY is looking in the “Business Classes” section. Next to Bailey is a pretty, Latina girl with wavy, brunette hair. She is sitting on the floor looking through a stack of books.

BAILEY: (To himself, looking at a class agenda) Okay, Principles of Advertising. (He begins searching the shelves for the book.) Principles of Advertising. Hmm…
GIRL: (To Bailey) Excuse me, are you in Professor Goodwin’s class?
BAILEY: (Caught off guard) Huh…uh, yeah.
GIRL: Sorry – I couldn’t help overhearing you. (Holding up a book from her pile) You’re probably looking for this.
BAILEY: Oh, yeah. Are…are you buying all those? (The girl laughs.)
GIRL: (Smiling) Actually, I’m just looking for the best copy. The new copies are still on back order, so I guess we’ll have to settle for these.
BAILEY: I see. (Bailey crouches down.) So…have you picked the one you want?
GIRL: (Playfully, lowering her brows) Well, it’s a tough decision, you know. Should I take the one with pencil marks and buy a big eraser…
BAILEY: (Amused) Or…
GIRL: …Or do I go with the one that is (with careful enunciation) neatly highlighted in yellow.
BAILEY: (Smiling, holding his finger up authoritatively) Now, that depends…(Lighthearted) Read some of the highlighted passages. If they are passages you would have highlighted yourself, buy it. If not, get the one with the pencil marks.
GIRL: (Chuckles as they both stand up. Playfully sarcastic) So tell me, are you this smart when it comes to everything…or just used books.
BAILEY: (Places his finger to his chin, as if thinking) Uh…just used books. (He smiles, showing his dimples.)
GIRL: (She shakes her head and smiles as she extends her hand toward Bailey) I’m Maria.
BAILEY: (Shaking her hand) Bailey. (Maria selects a copy of the book, and Bailey grabs the next copy off the stack.)
MARIA: So…would you mind if I took your phone number? (Bailey’s eyes open wide as he looks surprised. He begins to speak, but Maria continues.) Just in case I miss a class and need notes or something. (Bailey regains his normal expression.)
BAILEY: (A little embarrassed) Oh…of course. (Bailey grabs a sheet of paper from his backpack and begins writing.)

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

CHARLIE'S HOUSE, in the back yard. JULIA and JUSTIN are sitting on the swing out back. After a few moments of silence, JUSTIN speaks.

JUSTIN: (Awkward) Well, you’re looking...better...how have things been going?
JULIA: (With a sigh) Okay.
JUSTIN: (Leading) Anything you want to talk about?
JULIA: (Thinking) Um...not really…
JUSTIN: (After a few silent moments) You look like you’ve lost some weight…have you been eating?
JULIA: Uh-huh…when I’m hungry. (Julia looks away, then speaks after an awkward pause.) So how’s school?
JUSTIN: (Smirks) Pretty crappy, actually.
JULIA: (After a short, thoughtful pause) Well, maybe you should transfer back to Yale.
JUSTIN: (Despondently) I can’t just keep transferring…(pauses thoughtfully and continues slowly) Anyway…I was really hoping that…you’d have come home by now.
JULIA: (Stands up and snaps) I am home!
JUSTIN: (Stands up and puts his hands on Julia’s shoulders, she backs away from his touch) That’s not…what I meant…
JULIA: (Turning away from Justin, she clinches her fist in frustration) I know. (She folds her arms and covers her eyes with one hand.)
JUSTIN: (Tries to hold Julia, but she pulls away) I am so sorry, Julia…(Julia slowly moves her hand away from her eyes and stares at Justin. After a moment, she raises her hand about to speak, but instead closes her eyes and takes a deep breath. She looks down for a moment, and then quickly begins walking toward the house. Justin starts to go after her, and then stops.)

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

CHARLIE’S HOUSE. GRIFFIN and OWEN are sitting at the kitchen counter. Owen is doing his homework as Griffin thumbs through a motorcycle magazine. After a few moments of looking at his paper, Owen puts his pencil down and sighs.

OWEN: Griffin, can you help me think of some compound words?
GRIFFIN: (Looking at Owen) Compound words? Uh…what’ve you got so far?
OWEN: (Looking at his paper) Treehouse, doghouse, and cathouse.
GRIFFIN: Cathouse?
OWEN: (Looking back at Griffin) I need two more.
GRIFFIN: (Thinking) Hmm…well…how about ‘motorcycle’. That’s two words – ‘motor’ and ‘cycle’.
OWEN: (Excitedly) Ooh, that’s a good one! (Owen writes it down.) One more.
GRIFFIN: (Thinking) One more…(Charlie enters the kitchen.) Hey, Charlie.
CHARLIE: Hey. Sorry I’m late.
OWEN: Charlie! (Hopping off the stool.) Can we go now?
CHARLIE: Go? Go where?
OWEN: You said you would take me to get a new glove. My old one’s falling apart.
CHARLIE: Oh, that. (He pauses a moment.) Hey, buddy – would you mind if we went to get your glove next weekend? I’m really tired tonight, and tomorrow…
OWEN: (Interrupting) Next weekend? (Whiny) But you promised I could get the glove before playoffs.
CHARLIE: (Nodding his head, his eyebrows raised) Yeah…and we will.
OWEN: But my playoffs are Wednesday.
CHARLIE: (Lowering his head) This Wednesday? (Owen nods. Charlie closes his eyes and begins shaking his head slowly.) Owen, I…I’m sorry. I have to be in Sacramento on Wednesday.
OWEN: (Whiny) But you promised you’d be there for my game!
CHARLIE: I know…(quietly) I know. (In his regular tone) Look, why don’t we go get your glove now…and Julia can take you on Wednesday.
OWEN: (Pouting) She’s a girl! And she doesn’t even like baseball.
CHARLIE: Owen, I’m sorry. If I could get out of this trip…
GRIFFIN: (Matter-of-factly) I can take him. (Charlie and Owen both look at Griffin.) (To Charlie, as he messes Owen’s hair) I’ve been wanting to see what kind of stuff this kid’s got, anyway.
CHARLIE: (Looking at Owen) Would that be alright?
OWEN: (Thinking) Mmm…okay. (In a happy tone) Can we go get my glove now?
GRIFFIN: (To Owen) Hey, bud...not so fast. You've still got two more compound words to think of. (Charlie smiles approvingly at Griffin.)

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

NORA and CLAUDIA are in the living room of their DORM. Claudia is practicing her violin while Nora listens. Just then TINA walks in.

TINA: (To Claudia) Oh, how pretty! What is it? Like Mozart or something. (She twirls “ballerina” style as Nora rolls her eyes. Claudia stops playing.)
CLAUDIA: Uh…no, actually its “Four Seasons” by Vivaldi. It’s the piece I’ll be playing when I audition for the orchestra.
TINA: Oh well, whatever. (Valerie walks into the living room.) Me and Val are going out for dinner…see you guys later. (Tina and Val leave.)
NORA: Don’t hurry back…(Claudia laughs.) Now let me hear the rest - you were doing great.
CLAUDIA: Ugh…I think I could use a break. Wanna head to the dining hall?
NORA: (Apologetically) I can’t tonight. My family is expecting me for dinner at six.
CLAUDIA: (With a hint of envy.) You’re lucky to have your family living here in New York.
NORA: Yeah, I know. At first I thought it would be so cool being away from them…but it’s been a few weeks now, and…I guess I’m…actually kinda starting to miss them…
CLAUDIA: (Glancing at the clock) Hey, it’s five o’clock. You’d better…
NORA: (Jumping up) Oh, you’re right! I’d better get going. (Nora notices a slightly disappointed look on Claudia’s face.) Hey, how about breakfast tomorrow morning or something?
CLAUDIA: (With a forced smile) That’d be great. (Nora smiles and leaves the room as Claudia looks around at the emptiness. After a moment of deliberation, Claudia picks up the phone and dials a number. She gets an answering machine.)
ANSWERING MACHINE: Hi, you’ve reached Bailey and Cole… (Claudia hangs up the phone and sighs.)

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

GRIFFIN and STEPHANIE are entering the lobby of the extravagant FAIRMONT HOTEL in the prestigious Nob Hill district of San Francisco. Stephanie is dressed elegantly in a long, black gown. The silver of her necklace and bracelets sparkle from the lights of the chandeliers. Griffin, although handsomely dressed, looks a bit uncomfortable in his tuxedo. They are holding hands as they walk up an elaborate marble staircase with crystal chandeliers.

GRIFFIN: (Looking around, fidgeting with his collar) Are…are you sure I should be here? With all these business men and all…
STEPHANIE: (Motherly) Honey, I wouldn’t have begged you to come if I didn’t…
GRIFFIN: Yeah, but…(stopping Stephanie, he looks at her) I just feel so…(looking around, shaking his head)…so, (shrugging) I don’t know…it’s just…I don’t know what to say to these people.
STEPHANIE: (Smiling warmly) Just be yourself. (Griffin looks unconvinced.) Just say “congratulations on a great year.”
GRIFFIN: (Confusedly) That’s another thing. It’s September – how can your company be celebrating a great year?
STEPHANIE: We’re celebrating the work of our last fiscal year, which ended in June.
GRIFFIN: (Looking to the side) “Fiscal year”…“revenue”…“margin.” (Shaking his head) How can anyone keep it all straight?
STEPHANIE: (Reassuringly) Honey, don’t worry. These are just people who work with me.
GRIFFIN: No – these are people who work for you.
STEPHANIE: What’s the difference?
GRIFFIN: The difference is everyone’s going to be looking at me…wondering who I am…and why you’re with this…this…(extending his hands, trying to think of the right word.)
STEPHANIE: (Finishing his sentence) With this handsome, wonderful man. (Griffin smiles, still trying to find the right word, but Stephanie interrupts his thought.) Now c’mon – I want to show you off. (She grabs his hand and leads him toward the ballroom.)

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

JULIA and JUSTIN are walking out of THE CASTRO movie theater. The marquee reads “Meet John Doe.” JUSTIN reaches for JULIA’s hand and, after a brief hesitation, she lets him hold it.

JUSTIN: That was a pretty good movie, don’t you think?
JULIA: (Nonchalant) I suppose. The ending was pretty lame though.
JUSTIN: Why do you say that?
JULIA: Because Gary Cooper didn’t jump off the building at the end.
JUSTIN: You wanted Gary Cooper to kill himself?
JULIA: (Using her hands for emphasis) Well, if he did, he would have become the martyr that he pretended to be throughout the movie. (Cynically) Instead, he ended up with the girl and everyone was “happy.” (Looking at the sidewalk) What a cop-out.
JUSTIN: (Raises his eyebrows and sighs before changing the subject) Hey, wanna get some ice cream?
JULIA: (Smiles weakly) If you want to.
JUSTIN: (Looking around as they walk to the car) Things sure haven’t changed much around here, have they?
JULIA: (Folds her arms and rubs them with her hands) I don’t know…I thought things were pretty different.
JUSTIN: (Stops walking and faces Julia, very interested) Oh? How so?
JULIA: (Drops her arms and looks down. She continues walking to the car) I don’t know. They just…do.
JUSTIN: (Catching up to her and stopping again. He looks intently into her eyes. He speaks carefully.) Is it because of…what…happened?
JULIA: (Upset) God, Justin…why do you have to keep bringing that up? (She begins walking again.)
JUSTIN: (Confused and hurt, following Julia) I didn’t…I mean, I just thought…(Stops Julia yet again, speaking cautiously) Don’t you…wanna talk about it?
JULIA: (Sharply) No! (To herself) I just want to forget it ever happened. (They reach the car as she speaks softly to Justin, with a slight hesitation.) Hey, you know what…I’m really tired. How ‘bout if I just take a rain check on that ice cream? (Justin opens the car door for her.) I’d rather just call it a night.
JUSTIN: (Protesting) But…(he sees the sad look on her face. He looks down) Yeah…my mom probably wants me to get the car back, anyway. (Julia smiles slightly as she enters the car.)

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

The ballroom at THE FAIRMONT HOTEL. STEPHANIE and GRIFFIN are standing near the bar talking to a group of three men. The first man appears to be in his thirties. He has a full head of short but graying hair. A bit overweight and slightly balding, the second man appears to be in his late forties. The third man, of slim build, appears to be in his early sixties. Except for the third man, everyone is holding a drink.

FIRST MAN: (To the group) So that’s why we were able to beat out Vertex on the deal – we have heterogeneous software and they don’t.
SECOND MAN: So the fact that our graphical user interface sucks didn’t make a difference, huh? (The men and Stephanie all laugh, and then Griffin forces a laugh. As the laughter subsides, Griffin nervously begins sipping his drink.)
FIRST MAN: (To Griffin) So…uh…(thinking)
STEPHANIE: “Griffin.”
FIRST MAN: Ah, yes – “Griffin.” So, Griffin – are you in the software business, too?
GRIFFIN: (Nervously) Uh…no. (He begins sipping his drink again, looking away from the group.)
SECOND MAN: (To Griffin) So…what do you do?
GRIFFIN: I…uh…(quietly) I work on motorcycles.
SECOND MAN: (Moving closer and turning his ear toward Griffin) What was that?
GRIFFIN: (Exaggerating his pronunciation) I said I work on motorcycles.
SECOND MAN: (With a slight tone of condescension) Really. (He looks at the first man, then looks back at Griffin. His speech is slow and drawn out.) Like a mechanic? (Stephanie is just about to say something as Griffin speaks.)
GRIFFIN: (Slightly defensive, yet proud) Not like a mechanic. I am a mechanic.
THIRD MAN: (To Griffin) Take it easy, son. (Looking at the second man) Don’t mind Mr. Ferguson, here. (Looking back at Griffin.) He’s just jealous because you have a beautiful date and he only has his heterogeneous software. (The second man begins to blush as the first man, the third man, and Stephanie smile. Griffin’s expression is unchanged as he begins sipping his drink once more.)

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

DAPHNE’S APARTMENT. CHARLIE has just arrived with DIANA. He is carrying a diaper bag and a small, fold-up stroller. DAPHNE is holding MATTHEW in her arms.

DAPHNE: (Surprised) Charlie! I thought Kirsten was bringing Diana. (To Diana in a high voice) Hello there, pumpkin! Mommy missed you so much last week! Did you miss mommy? Yeah?…
CHARLIE: (To Daphne) Where do you want me to put this stuff?
DAPHNE: Anywhere’s fine. (Charlie sets the diaper bag and stroller down by a small closet near the entrance.) (To Diana, showing her the baby) This is your little brother, Matthew. Isn’t he beautiful? (Looking back at Charlie) How was she?
CHARLIE: She was great. And Griffin seems to be doing fine with her.
DAPHNE: (Smiling, walking toward the kitchen) It still cracks me up to think of Griffin as a nanny! But hey – if I can learn to take care of a baby, anyone can.
CHARLIE: (Picking up Diana, talking to Daphne from the living room) Y’know, Daphne, there’s a lot more to taking care of baby than putting a bottle in her mouth and changing her diapers.
DAPHNE: (Walking back into the living room, defensive) What’s that supposed to mean?
CHARLIE: (Looking at Daphne) That means you’ve got to consider how the things you do will affect your kids. That means you’ve got to put them first.
DAPHNE: (Getting upset) You don’t think I do that?
CHARLIE: (Condescendingly, his brows raised) I thought you did…but maybe I was wrong.
DAPHNE: (Shaking her head) What’s that supposed to mean?
CHARLIE: (Raising his voice) It means…(he puts Diana down and tries to regain his normal tone) it’s about being an example for your daughter…for our daughter. It’s about the decisions you make.
DAPHNE: Is this about me and Luke not being married yet? Y’know, you’re the last person who should…
CHARLIE: (Interrupting, shaking his head) This isn’t about you and Luke. (After a pause) It’s about you. (Daphne is about to speak, but Charlie continues) Look, I don’t pretend to understand the kick you get out of taking your clothes off in front of a bunch of strangers, but…
DAPHNE: (Confused and shocked) What? What are you talking about?
CHARLIE: (With a slightly raised voice) I’m talking about your stripping. (Daphne looks shocked.) What kind of message do you think that sends to Diana?
DAPHNE: (Shaking her head) How dare you! You haven’t exactly been a monk all your life either, Charlie.
CHARLIE: (Defensively) That was the past!
DAPHNE: Well, you’re bringing up my past!
CHARLIE: (Looking away, shaking his head) Come off it, Daphne. (Looking back at her) I know…okay? A friend of mine saw you stripping four months ago. I wouldn’t exactly call that the past.
DAPHNE: Are you insane? Four months ago I found out my “cyst” was a baby!
CHARLIE: Okay, fine. So you haven’t stripped since you found out you were pregnant. My point is…
DAPHNE: (Interrupting) And my point is I haven’t stripped since I’ve known Luke!
CHARLIE: (Holding his hand up) Look…you don’t want to admit it, fine. (Walking toward the door, he turns around to look at Daphne.) All I’m saying is…it better not happen again. (Charlie walks out and Daphne has a look of angered shock.)

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

THE GUEST HOUSE. STEPHANIE is sitting on a couch in the living room and she looks upset. GRIFFIN is pacing in front of her as the morning sunlight peers through the window.

GRIFFIN: (Stops pacing and looks at Stephanie squarely. Uses his hands for emphasis) All I’m saying is…it’s just not…me, that’s all.
STEPHANIE: (Turning to the side) And it doesn’t matter how important these events are to my career...
GRIFFIN: (Drops his head back and let’s out a breath in frustration) That’s not what I’m saying. (Begins pacing again and moving his hands in frustration. After a few moments he turns to her, still upset.) You know, you keep saying (mockingly in a high pitch voice) “tell me what you’re feeling” or...or “Give me a treasure.” (Pauses for emphasis) But what you’re really saying is…“tell me what I want to hear!”
STEPHANIE: (Stands up in protest) That is not true.
GRIFFIN: Yeah? Then why are you arguing with me because I don’t feel comfortable at those…events? As long as I just shut up and not say what I’m feeling you’re happy! (Stephanie begins to protest but is interrupted by a knock on the door. Griffin stands looking at Stephanie for a moment, then walks to the door and opens it. With a confused look) Justin?
JUSTIN: (Quietly) Hey, Griffin…(Seeing Stephanie) Sorry if this is a bad time but, uh…I really need to talk to you about…Julia.
GRIFFIN: (Concerned) Why? What’s wrong? (Justin nods his head toward Stephanie and Griffin nods. He calls out to Stephanie) I’ll be right back. (He walks outside and shuts the door. Concerned) So what’s up?
JUSTIN: Look, I don’t know. Maybe I’m just over reacting, but…these last few days…well, first of all, have you noticed anything…different with Julia?
GRIFFIN: She was attacked Justin, of course there’s gonna be…
JUSTIN: (Shaking his head) No, that’s not what I mean. (Thinks for a moment) Have you noticed…has she been eating and sleeping alright?
GRIFFIN: (Shrugging his shoulders) How would I know?
JUSTIN: Well, you spend a lot of time over at the house…with Owen and all, don’t you?
GRIFFIN: Yeah, but…I’m not Julia’s keeper.
JUSTIN: (Sincerely) Look, I’m gonna be leaving in a little while and…well…(Puts his hands in his pockets and shuffles his feet a little)…do you think you could keep an eye on her…just to make sure she’s…well, (struggling to find the right words) taking care of herself. (Looks squarely at Griffin) Face it, we both care a lot about her and…well…you’re here, I’m not. She needs somebody to look out for her.
GRIFFIN: (Caught off guard) Yeah, man. Sure. (Justin starts to walk away) Hey, (Justin turns around) I’m no threat to you…with Julia, I mean. (Justin smiles and looks down before slowly walking to the main house.)

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

WARE COLLEGE HOUSE. BAILEY is reading a textbook at his desk. The desk light is on, but the rest of the room is in shadows. COLE walks in as Bailey looks up from his book.

BAILEY: Night class? I used to hate night classes.
COLE: (Uninterested, taking off his jacket) Is that so?
BAILEY: (Looking back at his book) It’s hard enough staying awake in the day. I can’t imagine sitting through a night class…especially if Professor Sloan’s lecturing on “the dynamic effects of the subsidy on capital investment.”
COLE: (Sitting on the bed, taking off his shoes) Uh-huh.
BAILEY: Is that what he talked about to you guys, too?
COLE: (Indifferently) I wouldn’t know.
BAILEY: (Turning toward Cole) What do you mean? Didn’t you just come from his class?
COLE: (Sarcastically) That’s really none of your business. (Cole flops back onto his bed, closing his eyes.)
BAILEY: (Surprised) What? (He pauses.) What’s your problem, man? I’m just trying…
COLE: (Interrupting, he sits up and slightly loses his balance. Regaining his composure, he looks at Bailey) I’ll tell you what my problem is – of all the people to get as a roommate, I got (with a slight slur of his words) Beaver Cleaver.
BAILEY: (Standing up and moving closer to Cole, he raises his voice) What the hell is that supposed to…(Sniffing the air) Have you been drinking?
COLE: (Ignoring Bailey’s question) It means I’m not as dumb as you think I am, okay? You don’t think I notice your disapproving glances when I…(thinking) when I turn on my music?…or when I cuss or drink a beer? (Bailey opens his mouth to speak, but then he looks down shaking his head.) This is college, man. College…where you can do whatever the hell you want…and no one can do a damn thing about it. (Bailey looks back up at Cole. Cole begins shaking his head as he speaks.) But not you. You’re “Mr. Serious”…and when someone thinks differently than you, you look down on ‘em. (Flopping back on the bed.) I get that from my dad…I don’t need it from my roommate, too.
BAILEY: (Raising his voice and using his arms for emphasis) Yeah, well maybe you do. I’ve been down that road and believe me…(Bailey notices that Cole has passed out. He waves his arm in disgust.) You have no idea what you’re getting into, man.

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

A fast-paced flute song is heard from the audience of the JUILLIARD OPERA HALL. The chairs in the audience are filled with music students who are trying out for Juilliard’s freshman orchestra. The judges are sitting a few rows back with clipboards and solid expressions on their faces. CLAUDIA, carrying her violin case, comes rushing into the theatre. She sees her roommate, NORA, and takes the seat next to her.

CLAUDIA: Hey, Nora. I can’t believe I’m late to auditions! I just had to go through it one last time…I’m so nervous about not making it…
NORA: (Reassuringly) Calm down. You sounded great at practice. I’m sure you’ll make the Orchestra.
CLAUDIA: (Nervously) Yeah, maybe…its just that, this is what I have been waiting for all summer, and what…what if…
NORA: Claudia, with your talent and your choice in music, you have nothing to worry about. (Claudia smiles.) Hey, Claudia…I’m sorry about not going to dinner with you last night…are we okay?
CLAUDIA: Oh…don’t worry about it…I wouldn’t have passed up a moment with my family, either. (Looking away, speaking in a dramatic tone) I guess it wasn’t all that bad…by myself, in that lonely dorm room…all alone, with no one…(seeing Nora’s sad look, Claudia looks back at her with a smile.) Just kidding. (They both giggle as the music subsides.)
NORA: Hey, now get ready…the violins are about to start. (The audience gives their applause as the flute player on-stage takes a bow. A judge stands and speaks…)
JUDGE: Okay…next we have Claudia Salinger…violin. (Claudia looks to Nora.)
NORA: Good luck!
CLAUDIA: (Whispering) Thanks, I’ll need all I can get. (Claudia walks onto the stage and gives a gracious smile to the judges.)
CLAUDIA: Good morning. My name is Claudia Salinger, and I will be performing Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons.”

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

WHARTON SCHOOL OF BUSINESS. BAILEY is in class listening to a lecture. Appearing to be in his mid-forties, Bailey’s professor is of average build and has a crown of brown hair that he combs over the top of his head. Standing at the blackboard, he speaks with an erudition fitting of a professor.

PROFESSOR BALDWIN: (To the class) John Maynard Keynes believed that massive government spending was the answer to correct the country’s economic problems. Now, can anyone explain to me his thinking behind this? (A female student raises her hand. The professor points to her.) Yes?
FEMALE STUDENT: Well, I think Keynes believed that this spending would have lowered the unemployment rate during the Depression, giving the public more dollars to spend.
PROFESSOR BALDWIN: (Nodding his head) Very good…but there’s more. (Looking around the room.) Anyone else? (A bell rings, and the professor looks at the clock.) We’ll continue on Keynes and talk about supply and demand next week. (The students begin putting their books and papers away, but the professor interrupts over the noise of the rustling.) But before you go…(the students quiet down a bit.) I’d like to remind you that applications for the “Study Abroad” program must be turned in by October 15th. (Bailey looks up, interested.) Applications are available on the web or from your advisor. Have a good day. (The students begin exiting the classroom as Bailey gathers up his things and walks to the front of the class. He begins speaking to the professor, who is packing up his materials.)
BAILEY: Professor Baldwin?
PROFESSOR BALDWIN: Yes?
BAILEY: This “Study Abroad” program…what exactly is it? (Professor Baldwin stops packing his briefcase and sighs, looking at Bailey.)
PROFESSOR BALDWIN: Doesn’t anyone read their handouts? (Bailey looks nervous as he begins to speak, but the professor cuts him off, speaking in an irritated fashion.) It means you can get full credit for one semester if you take your business classes at select international universities...Frankfurt, Milan, Tokyo…
BAILEY: What about England?
PROFESSOR BALDWIN: The UK, too…good ‘ol Oxford. (Bailey tries to contain his smile.)
BAILEY: Thank you! You don’t know what this means…(Calming down a bit, nodding his head.) Thank you.

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

JULIA is laying on her stomach on the couch in Charlie’s living room reading a book. KIRSTEN walks in the front door and lets out a big sigh as she drops her brief case to the ground. She enters the living room and sees Julia.

JULIA: Hey Kirsten. Early day?
KIRSTEN: (Tired) Hey, Jul. (Leaning over to take off her shoes) Yeah, two clients cancelled. (Walks into the living room) Whatcha reading?
JULIA: (Rolls over and sits up as she casually closes the book) Just some silly romance novel. It’s not very good…but it passes the time.
KIRSTEN: Things have been kinda boring around here, huh?
JULIA: (Yawning) Naw, just quiet. Daphne has Diana all week and Griffin took Owen to a Little League Game. It’s been kinda nice.
KIRSTEN: (With an awkward smile) You look kinda tired…you sleeping okay?
JULIA: (Quickly) Yeah, fine. Why?
KIRSTEN: It’s just that Justin…(correcting herself) I mean…you just seem…tired.
JULIA: (Sternly) What about Justin?
KIRSTEN: Well, no, I’ve just noticed that you seem tired lately…
JULIA: (Getting upset) Kirsten, what about Justin?
KIRSTEN: (Sincerely) He’s worried about you, Julia…all of us are.
JULIA: (Sternly) I’m fine! (She begins to cry a little, despite trying not to. Kirsten sits down next to her and gently rubs her back. After a few moments Julia wipes her tears and tries to regain her composure. Weakly, but determined) I’m fine.
KIRSTEN: (Awkward, yet comforting) You’re right…all things considered. (Julia looks surprised, then smiles at Kirsten. A few moments of silence pass before Kirsten speaks again.) So how was your visit with Justin?
JULIA: I really didn’t expect to see him…so soon. (Wipes her eyes with her sleeve.)
KIRSTEN: (Concerned) I know. So how was everything?
JULIA: (Shrugs as she pulls her knees to her chest) Alright…I guess. (Kirsten looks at Julia with disbelief) Okay…it was pretty awkward. I don’t know why…I mean, he just wanted to talk about it…like I don’t exist anymore. (Kirsten listens intently) And he just kept apologizing. (Looks squarely at Kirsten) I’m trying like so hard to not blame him…and he just keeps apologizing. (Julia holds her head in her hands for a few minutes before looking up again.) I just wish it would all go away.

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

BAILEY and MARIA are sitting at a table in the CAMPUS LIBRARY. Opened books are scattered over the table, along with notebooks, binders, and pens. Bailey is reading a textbook while Maria is writing on a notepad.

BAILEY: (To Maria, still looking at his text) I don’t get this. (Maria looks up from her notepad.) It says here that it takes three exposures to an ad before it will penetrate the average person. (Looking at Maria, shaking his head) Why three?
MARIA: (Puts her notepad on the table and adjusts her glasses) Because we’re exposed to so many messages throughout the day. There are billboards on the streets…commercials on TV and radio…the internet is really just one big commercial. After awhile, you get immune to them.
BAILEY: (Looking back at his book) I guess.
MARIA: Unless, of course, it’s something you’re interested in. (Bailey looks at her.) Then you’ll notice the ad the first time you see it. (She begins smiling.) You know that “Got Milk” campaign? (Bailey nods.) Well, I noticed that ad right away because Matthew Fox was on it. I had such a huge crush on him!
BAILEY: (Shaking his head) Matthew Fox?
MARIA: Bailey, haven’t you ever watched…(Seeing Bailey’s confused look) Oh, nevermind.

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

DAPHNE and KIRSTEN are seated at a restaurant. MATTHEW is sleeping in his car seat next to Daphne. DIANA is in a high-chair next to Kirsten.

KIRSTEN: (Shaking her head, questioningly) What do you mean “he doesn’t care”?
DAPHNE: Well, I shouldn’t say he doesn’t care. Luke’ll do anything I ask him to do…he’s really sweet that way. (Smiling) He even changes Matthew’s diaper. But it’s like…if I don’t ask…
KIRSTEN: (Interrupting, with a smile) That’s men, Daphne. All men are like that except…well…
DAPHNE: Charlie! Believe me – I know. I remember how he used to set our alarm to go off every two hours so Diana’s feedings would always be on schedule. And see – that’s the type of stuff Luke just doesn’t do. (Kirsten smiles sympathetically.) Y’know, it’s funny. Charlie used to drive me crazy with all the fuss he made over Diana. (Looking at Matthew) Now I’d be happy if Luke were even half as excited about that little guy.
KIRSTEN: (Reassuringly) Well, give him some time, Daph. You said Luke was really shocked when you told him you were pregnant. It’s a big adjustment…becoming a first-time father.
DAPHNE: I guess so. Sometimes I feel like he doesn’t even want to be there. He seemed so excited about going back to work! (After a pause) Do you think I’m putting too much pressure on him? Like Charlie used to do to me?
KIRSTEN: (Shaking her head) I don’t follow…
DAPHNE: Well, when Diana was born, Charlie was so excited and he was such a great parent…I guess…well…it just made me feel like whatever I did wouldn’t measure up. So I didn’t even try. Do you think that’s what Luke might be feeling?
KIRSTEN: I don’t know…but there’s only one way to find out. (Pausing for emphasis) Don’t nag him…don’t question him…just let him be. Then see if he comes around.

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

GRIFFIN is in line for a soda at OWEN’S Little League baseball game. Ahead of him are a boy and his father. The boy is dressed in a Little League uniform. Griffin overhears their conversation.

SON: (Whiny) What am I doing wrong, dad?
FATHER: (Comfortingly) Calm down, Richie. You’re just nervous. Next time you get up, don’t grip the bat so tightly. Try to be loose at the plate, okay? (The boy nods, and he and his father walk away. Griffin deposits his change into the machine and makes his selection, then he heads back to the stands to watch Owen’s game. Owen steps out of the dugout and into the “on-deck” circle. He speaks to Griffin, who’s sitting on the other side of the fence.)
OWEN: You must really think I suck.
GRIFFIN: What? (Getting up from the stands and walking up to the fence.) Don’t say that. You’re doing fine.
OWEN: (Whiny) But I struck out twice already! The guys on the team are calling me “easy-out.”
GRIFFIN: (Thinking) Well…prove ‘em wrong…go up there and show ‘em what you’re made of.
OWEN: How?
GRIFFIN: (Thinking) How? Hmm…(Shaking his head, speaking softly) I…I don’t know. (He sees Owen’s desperate look.) Hey, try not holding the bat so tight.
OWEN: The bat?
GRIFFIN: Yeah. And…and don’t be so nervous. Just be…“loose”. (The boy at the plate takes ball four and jogs to first base. Owen approaches the plate as Griffin returns to his seat. The pitcher winds up and throws the pitch, but Owen doesn’t swing.)
UMPIRE: Strike One! (Owen looks at Griffin with a desperate look. Griffin nods his head and makes a fist for Owen to see. The pitcher throws the next ball and Owen swings. He hits it into left field for a base hit. After running to first, Owen turns toward Griffin with a huge smile on his face. Griffin gives Owen a “thumbs up” as he smiles proudly.)

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

DAPHNE and KIRSTEN are walking through GOLDEN GATE PARK. Daphne is pushing MATTHEW in his stroller, and KIRSTEN is pushing DIANA in hers.

KIRSTEN: (Looking at Daphne, joking) C‘mon, Daph. You don’t have to lie to me…
DAPHNE: Kirsten, I swear I’m not lying. I haven’t stripped at The Poodle for years.
KIRSTEN: (Confused) Hmm…that’s what I thought, too. But Charlie asked his friend if he was sure, and Jason said he was positive.
DAPHNE: (Sarcastically) I don’t care what “Jason” says. (In regular tone) I still can’t remember ever meeting the guy. (Kirsten and Daphne lock the wheels of the strollers and sit on a bench near a lake full of paddle-boaters.)
KIRSTEN: (Smiling) Well, you sure made quite an impression on him. Charlie said Jason couldn’t remember your name…but that he’d sure never forget your…(stumbling) you…you. He said he’d never forget you.
DAPHNE: Well, at least he has good taste. (Both women smile and silently watch the paddle boaters.)

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

BAILEY and MARIA are still at the CAMPUS LIBRARY. MARIA notices a group of students getting off the elevator. She waves them over to the table where she and Bailey are working. In the group are a thin, pretty Asian girl with brown hair; a tall, muscular guy with sandy hair; a fuller-figured girl with blonde hair; and Bryan, an average looking guy with slightly curly, brown hair and a fair complexion.

BRYAN: (To Maria, with a smile) There you are. (He leans down and gives her a quick kiss. Maria smiles.) I called you in your room. Have you been here long?
MARIA: Mmm, a little while…we’ve been…(with an embarrassed smile) Oh, how rude of me! (Standing up, speaking to her friends) Everyone, this is Bailey. (Bailey stands up, smiling at Maria’s friends.) He’s in my Business Advertising class. (To Bailey, pointing to the Asian girl) Bailey, this is my friend Jean…
BAILEY: (Shaking Jean’s hand) Hi.
JEAN: Hello.
MARIA: (Pointing to the sandy-haired guy)…and this is Steve…
BAILEY: (Shaking Steve’s hand) Hey.
STEVE: Nice to meet you.
MARIA: (Pointing to the blonde-haired girl)…and Elizabeth…
BAILEY: (Shaking Elizabeth’s hand) Elizabeth…hi.
ELIZABETH: (With a smile) Just call me Liz. (Bailey smiles and nods.)
MARIA: (Putting her arm around Bryan) And this is my boyfriend, Bryan.
BAILEY: (Shaking Bryan’s hand) Hey.
BRYAN: It’s a pleasure. (Everyone smiles, and after a moment Bryan speaks, looking at Maria and Bailey.) Well, hey…don’t let us disturb you two. (To Maria) We were just heading over to “Periodicals.” If you want to, you can catch up with us later.
MARIA: (Smiling) Okay.
ELIZABETH: (To Bailey) Nice meeting you.
BAILEY: (Smiling) You, too.
JEAN: (To Maria and Bailey) Bye. (The group begins walking toward the periodicals section as Maria and Bailey both sit down.)
BAILEY: (To Maria) Nice people.
MARIA: (Looking at her notepad) The best.
BAILEY: So…how did you meet them?
MARIA: (Looking up from her notepad) We’re all English majors. (With a tilt of her head) They still don’t know what I’m doing minoring in business, but oh well. (They both smile.) And Bryan…we had to do a project together on Byron for our Romantics class. (Playfully) Here’s a little secret: if you want a girl to fall for you, read “She Walks in Beauty” to her. (Bailey raises his eyebrows.) It worked for Bryan.

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

DAPHNE and KIRSTEN have returned to the car after their walk in the park. Daphne has just finished buckling MATTHEW in the back seat as she leans back out of the car and begins speaking to Kirsten.

DAPHNE: (Thinking out loud) Hey, Kirsten…didn’t you say Charlie hadn’t seen Jason for a couple of years?
KIRSTEN: (Putting Diana’s stroller in the trunk, she answers with a slight tone of confusion) Yeah…why? (Daphne brings Matthew’s stroller to the back of the car.)
DAPHNE: (Sounding deep in thought) Well…it’s just that…I didn’t even know Char…(Her thought drifts off as she puts the stroller in the trunk. She stands there staring silently for a few moments before her eyes light up.) Hey—you sure he said it was me?
KIRSTEN: Who?
DAPHNE: Jason – Charlie’s friend.
KIRSTEN: (Thinking for a moment) Um, I think Charlie said he referred to you as “Charlie’s ex.”
DAPHNE: (Daphne eyes open wider as she clarifies) So he didn’t actually say “Daphne”?
KIRSTEN: (Confused) No, I don’t think so. (She notices Daphne’s excitement building.) Daphne, I know Charlie’s had a lot of girlfriends, but you’re the only one who ever stripped.
DAPHNE: (She covers her mouth with her hands to hide her growing smile and starts giggling) Oh my God.
KIRSTEN: (With a confused smile) What? What’s so funny about that?
DAPHNE: (More excitedly) Oh my God! (Looking straight at Kirsten) Kirsten! Jason didn’t see me stripping…
KIRSTEN: (Confused) But he…
DAPHNE: (Flapping her arms with excitement) Kirsten he…he saw…you!
KIRSTEN: (Surprised) What? (More calmly, shaking her head) No. Daphne, that doesn’t make any sense. I thought about that, too…but he wouldn’t call me “Charlie’s ex”…he would’ve told Charlie he saw his wife”?
DAPHNE: (A look of disappointment comes over her face as she bites her nail.) Hmm. (Quietly thinks for a moment, speaks as if talking to herself.) It’s just…Charlie didn’t even know me the last time he saw this guy. (Looks at Kirsten) So how could this guy…
KIRSTEN: (Her eyes open wide in horror) Oh my God. (Nervously, louder) Oh my God! (Pauses for a moment in deep thought, she speaks as if in a daze.) Daphne, the last time Jason saw Charlie, I was his “ex”. (Nervously she counts on her fingers.) And it was about four months ago that I…Oh, my God!
DAPHNE: (Oblivious to Kirsten’s dismay) And Charlie was so high-and-mighty with me. I can’t wait to pull the soap box out from under him!
KIRSTEN: (Still in a slight daze) He was so upset…Daphne, you’re not…you can’t tell him!
DAPHNE: (Sharply) Well, he can’t keep thinking it was me. (Kirsten looks pleadingly at Daphne as the scene fades.)