BAILEY is sitting in his class with PHYLLIS KAINE, Ph.D. As he’s listening to a lecture on Strategic Planning, he attempts to raise his hand to ask her a question numerous times, but she continues to speak.

DOCTOR KAINE: (To the class) So you want to position the organization in such a way that change becomes the norm…where you are being proactive both internally and externally. The way you begin this process is with a SWOT analysis. Now, who can tell me about a SWOT analysis, from your reading? (Finally noticing Bailey’s hand, glances down at her paperwork) Mr…uh, Salinger. What is a SWOT analysis?
BAILEY: Actually, I have another question.
DOCTOR KAINE: (Lowers her head and peer over her glasses) Oh?
BAILEY: (Slightly intimidated) See…I was reading about the SWOT analysis and…well, it sounds good in theory but, I just don’t see it working in the real world. You see…
DOCTOR KAINE: (Interrupting) Mr. Salinger. This is a highly recognized tool in the business world that has worked for many corporations. Now your classmates don’t need to be wasting time on your skepticism. You might find it helpful to listen, then, when you get out into the real world, and maybe even manage your own business someday, you’ll have the tools you need. (Bailey begins to protest, but Dr. Kaine calls on another student.) Mr. Raymond, can you help us out?
MR. RAYMOND: (An older gentleman in a business suit stands up) Certainly. My boss brought in a consultant last year and we had a two-day retreat where we went through a SWOT analysis and…I can’t even begin to tell you the tremendous impact it’s had on our company. It helped us recognize some problem areas we didn’t even know existed…and, we’re better in tune with the needs of our customers…our profits are at an all time high. (Smiling proudly, he straightens his jacket) My boss wanted me to take this class so I can run the retreat this year…
BAILEY: (Protesting) Doctor Kaine, he’s not the only business…
DOCTOR KAINE: (Sharply) Mister Salinger…one more outburst and I’ll have to ask you to leave. (She peers at Bailey over her classes for a moment before a warm smile begins to form and she turns toward Mr. Raymond again.) Mr. Raymond, thank you for sharing the benefits. Now, could you please describe what a SWOT analysis is? (Bailey rolls his eyes as Mr. Raymond begins to describe the retreat he participated in.)

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

CHARLIE'S HOUSE. GRIFFIN enters the kitchen through the back door. JULIA is sitting at the kitchen table. Her head is laying on the table and her hand is resting on a paper-back book. The noise of Griffin shutting the door startles Julia awake.

GRIFFIN: (Almost in a whisper) Sorry, didn’t mean to wake you.
JULIA: (Rubbing her eyes and stretching) What time it?
GRIFFIN: (Smiling) Past your bedtime.
JULIA: (Yawning) Very funny. (Looking around) Where’s Owen?
GRIFFIN: (Shakes his head) I just dropped him off at school.
JULIA: (Confused) So what are you doing here…shouldn’t you be at work?
GRIFFIN: Yeah, I’m headed over there now. I just had to get the car back to Kirsten. (Griffin walks past the table and notices the title of Julia’s book. He reads it out loud.) “How To Tell if You're Depressed.” (Looks at Julia) Julia…what’s that about?
JULIA: (Nonchalantly) Just something Kirsten gave me…she thought it might be helpful. (Julia yawns and stretches as she runs her fingers through her messy hair.)
GRIFFIN: (Noticing Julia’s ragged appearance) Hey, you okay?
JULIA: (Slightly defensive) Fine, why?
GRIFFIN: (Shrugs) I…don’t know. You just…haven’t looked yourself lately.
JULIA: (Raising her voice a little) And what’s that supposed to mean?
GRIFFIN: I…(shrugs) I don’t know…you just look…kinda…worn lately.
JULIA: (Defensively) Well you haven’t exactly looked a gem yourself!
GRIFFIN: Julia, come on. (Pauses) Have you…uh, been…sleeping okay?
JULIA: (Sternly) Yes, I’m sleeping (yawns) fine.
GRIFFIN: (Seriously) Jul, maybe (shrugs)…I don’t know…you should, uh, maybe think about seeing a, uh, doctor or something. I mean, I’m sure they can give you something to help you sleep…
JULIA: (Interrupts) I don’t need a doctor, Griffin. I’m fine! (As she storms out of the room) I’d be better if everyone would just stop telling me what I need! (Griffin stands there with a confused and hurt look on his face as the scene fades.)

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

CLAUDIA’S DORM. CLAUDIA and NORA are in the living room of their dorm practicing the violin. Nora yawns as she gets up and walks into the kitchen for some orange juice. She calls out to Claudia as she opens the refrigerator.

NORA: Do you want anything?
CLAUDIA: Uh…just some water.
NORA: (Noticing a six-pack of beer in the refrigerator.) Whose beer is this?
CLAUDIA: What? (Claudia walks into the kitchen and notices three cases of beer stacked up next to the refrigerator. Confused, Claudia scratches her head.) No one here drinks…(Valerie and Tina walk out of the bedroom area.)
VALERIE: (Rushing into the kitchen) Hey! don’t touch…that’s ours!
CLAUDIA: (Sarcastic) Sor-ry. How did you get that, anyway?
TINA: (Arrogantly) Uh…this is New York…(proudly) it was easy…and it’s our ticket to Thursday’s party, so don’t touch! You guys can come if you want. (Enticingly) Guys from NYU will be there!
CLAUDIA: (Rolling her eyes) Who needs NYU guys? No thanks. (Begins to walk back into the living room, but turns around towards Tina and Valerie.) This is a school full of pianists and cellists…where did you find a party?
TINA: (Rolls her eyes) Uh, like, how naïve are you! (She dramatically throws her hair back and walks out of the kitchen toward her bedroom.)
VALERIE: Like Tina said…this is New York. Everything you need is on your block. (Follows Tina. As she walks past Claudia she speaks in almost a whisper.) Don’t be surprised if it’s right in your own backyard. (She winks and walks towards the bedroom.)
CLAUDIA: Aaargh. Those two make me crazy!
NORA: (Giggles at Claudia as she playfully holds her finger to her chin.) You know…I actually think they’re growing on me…(Lowers her finger and speaks dramatically) NOT! (Claudia laughs while pouring herself a glass of water. After taking a gulp, she talks to Nora.)
CLAUDIA: Okay, breaks over. We really need to practice now that we made the orchestra. (Glances at the clock) And my class starts in an hour.
NORA: (Putting her glass down) Let’s hop to it, after all… (playfully) I’m gonna be first chair. (Holds her head high and smiles dramatically.)
CLAUDIA: Oh, yeah? Well you’ll have to beat me, first! (Both girls giggle as they walk back into the living room.)

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

THE FACTORY. CHARLIE is sitting behind his desk, speaking with a young woman who is seated in front of him. The young woman appears to be in her mid-twenties, with reddish-brown hair cut just above her shoulders.

YOUNG WOMAN: Well, my last placement was with a graphics house, and some of their customers literally had invoices 90 days past due. That was a challenge.
CHARLIE: (Smiling) Well, luckily most of our clients pay between 45 and 60 days, but we’ve got a few that’ll make you earn your paycheck.
YOUNG WOMAN: (With a confident smile) I don’t mind that.
CHARLIE: (Nodding) Great. (Raising his brows) Well, I don’t see any reason why you shouldn’t start with us right away. (They both stand and begin shaking hands as Luke enters the office.)
YOUNG WOMAN: (To Charlie) Thank you, Mr. Salinger.
CHARLIE: It’s “Charlie.” (Nodding toward Luke) And this is my partner, Luke.
YOUNG WOMAN: (Shaking Luke’s hand) It’s a pleasure.
LUKE: (Nodding politely) Ma’am. (The young woman grabs her briefcase.)
YOUNG WOMAN: (To Charlie) Well, I guess I’ll see you tomorrow morning?
CHARLIE: (Nodding) Yeah…great. (The young woman smiles and leaves the office. Luke turns toward Charlie, who sits back down at his desk.)
LUKE: (Confused) Am I missing something?
CHARLIE: (Smiling) That’s Amanda Scott. She’s a temp. I’ve asked her to help us out with our accounts receivable. Nothing major – Mondays, Wednesdays…Fridays when we need her.
LUKE: But we’re pretty current on our receivables, Charlie. Do you really think we need…
CHARLIE: (Interrupting, with a smile) Yeah, we’re current…but the problem is it takes us two hours every night to stay current. And in the meantime, our wives are forgetting what we look like. (Luke resignedly nods to Charlie, who smiles.) Now, go home and tell Daphne the good news.

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

BAILEY walks up to the door of his DORM ROOM. He is just about to put his key in to unlock the door as the door opens.

BAILEY: Whoa, thanks! I was just about to…
COLE: Don’t worry – I’m leaving. (Cole begins walking past Bailey. Bailey turns around, calling after him.)
BAILEY: Cole, wait. (Cole stops, then slowly turns around in an irritated fashion.) Look, I know we haven’t gotten off on the right foot here…and…and I know you think I’m some kind of “goody two-shoes” who looks down on you for drinking and partying. (Shaking his head) But I’m not – really. (Cole tilts his head in an impatient manner.) The truth is, I used to do a lot of drinking myself. And, yeah, it seems “fun” for awhile, but believe me…
COLE: (Interrupting, with a sarcastic smile) What? Are you going to give me all the stats now? How “alcohol is the leading killer of teens,” or some crap like that?
BAILEY: (Shaking his head, holding up his hand) No, I wasn’t going to do that. I’m just talking about me here.
COLE: Well save it, Salinger. If you really wanna help me, just leave me alone. (Bailey stands still for a moment, then he turns to walk into the dorm room. Cole begins speaking, again with a sarcastic smile.) You know what I think? I think it’s you that needs help. (Bailey turns back around to look at Cole.)
BAILEY: Me? What are you talking about?
COLE: You’ve gotta learn to loosen up, man…relax. (Sincerely) Look, I’m going to meet some friends at a club…why don’t you come along? You don’t have to drink nothin’…just kinda hang out.
BAILEY: (Hesitates a moment before answering) I…I don’t think so.
COLE: C’mon, man. I’ve seen hermits that get out more than you.
BAILEY: Thanks…but I’d better not.
COLE: Have it your way. (Cole begins walking away.) But don’t say I didn’t try.

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

JULIA casually walks into the kitchen. She is wearing jogging pants and a t-shirt. Her hair is a bit messed up and she is not wearing any make-up. She walks over to the refrigerator and opens it. After studying its contents for a few moments she pulls out some leftover pizza. She gets a plate out of the cabinet and puts the pizza into the microwave. Before hitting the “start” button, she pauses for a moment, shakes her head and removes the pizza from the microwave. She puts the pizza back into the refrigerator and, again, stares at its contents. She pulls out an apple and walks over to the sink to wash it, but just before turning the water on returns the apple to the refrigerator. Slightly disgusted, she closes the refrigerator and walks over to the pantry. She moves items on the shelf as if looking for something specific. A smile comes over her face as she pulls out a can of soup. She walks over to the cabinet to get a pot, which she puts on the stove. As she approaches the electric can opener, she hesitates slightly and begins turning around. However, a determined look comes across her face as she turns and again walks toward the electric can opener. She pauses momentarily before forcing herself to open the can. A proud smile comes across her face. After making the can of soup, she pours it into a bowl and sits at the table with the book Kirsten gave her. She begins reading and takes a small bite of the soup. Then, she puts the book down on the table and moves the bowl of soup away from her. After a thoughtful pause, she goes into the downstairs bathroom and weighs herself. A depressed look comes over her face as she notices herself in the mirror. She walks over to the mirror for a closer look. She runs her hands through her tousled hair and down her face, tracing the circles under her eyes with her fingers. She then covers her face with the palms of her hands and softly begins to cry. Her crying grows louder and she begins to tremble as the camera pulls away and the scene fades.

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

DAPHNE AND LUKE’S APARTMENT. DAPHNE is in the kitchen, giving MATTHEW a bath in a small baby basin. The basin is over the sink, and the sleeves of Daphne’s sweatshirt are rolled up to keep them from getting wet.

DAPHNE: (In a high-pitched voice) You’re such a good little boy, aren’t you? Most little boys like being dirty and stinky, but not my little boy! He likes his baths, doesn’t he? (Scrunches her nose and shakes her head at Matthew as she speaks.) Yes you do…(Daphne hears the door open, and she talks over the running water.) Luke? We’re in here. (Luke walks into the kitchen.)
LUKE: (Sounding tired) I know – I know…I’m late…
DAPHNE: (Turning toward Luke, with her eyes innocently opened wide) Are you? I hadn’t noticed. (Daphne smiles, then turns back toward Matthew.)
LUKE: (Surprised) You hadn’t…(Luke stops. He turns towards her and notices dinner on the table.) Wow. That’s quite a spread you’ve got there.
DAPHNE: (While bathing the baby) Well, Matthew said his daddy works v-e-r-y hard, so he deserves to have a nice dinner waiting for him. (To Matthew) Right, baby? (Daphne turns and smiles at Luke.)
LUKE: (With an embarrassed smile) Well…thank you.
DAPHNE: Don’t thank me…(looking at Matthew) thank him! (After a pause) Oh, and ESPN is having some special on the Cowboys at eight. I saw it in the TV Guide. (Luke looks even more surprised.) Why don’t you start your dinner now so you won’t miss anything.
LUKE: (With a confused but happy smile) Yeah…yeah, I’ll do that. (Luke walks over to the dining room table as Daphne smiles and winks at Matthew.)

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

GRIFFIN and STEPHANIE are dining at a sports bar. They are sitting in a booth along the wall by the entrance. It is very noisy and they have to speak loudly to hear each other. The waitress just left after taking their drink order.

GRIFFIN: Things have been getting a little better, now that Charlie’s letting me use his garage to work on bikes. It’s just been real hard trying to watch Owen and Diana and still make any sort of money.
STEPHANIE: (Suggestive) Well, then…maybe it’s time…(Griffin roles his eyes. Stephanie sounds as if she’s giving a sales-pitch.) Look, it’s the perfect solution. You move in with me…we have more time together and you don’t have to waste any time with those children.
GRIFFIN: (Defensive) Waste? It’s not a waste. (Shakes his head.) You just don’t understand…(He is interrupted by a young lady with shoulder length, curly brown hair passing by their booth.)
YOUNG LADY: (Surprised) Griffin? Griffin…is that…really you?
GRIFFIN: (Standing up) Michelle? Whoa. (He casually gives her a hug and looks her over.) I can’t believe…I mean…what are you doing here? I thought you mov…
Michelle: (Looking Griffin over) Wow, it has been a long time, hasn’t it? What…it must be…seven years?
GRIFFIN: (Shaking his head in disbelief) At least…(They stare silently at each other for a few moments. Stephanie clears her throat and Griffin snaps out of his daze.) Oh, I’m sorry. Michelle this is Stephanie… (Turns toward Stephanie) Stephanie, (points towards Michelle) Michelle.
STEPHANIE: (Standing up to shake Michelle’s hand, nods her head and smiles to show she’s talking about herself.) Griffin’s girlfriend.
MICHELLE: (Smiling, she eagerly shakes Stephanie’s hand) It’s so nice to meet you. Wow, I didn’t mean to interrupt. Look, get back to your dinner. (Smiles adoringly at Griffin) It’s really great seeing you again. (She turns to walk away, but her eyes stay focused on Griffin.)
GRIFFIN: Hang on a sec. (Michelle stops and faces Griffin.) You back in town?
MICHELLE: (Smiles shyly) For the week…I’m visiting my sister.
GRIFFIN: Hey, maybe we could…I dunno…hang out or something. You know…catch up and stuff.
MICHELLE: (Her eyes widen) That would be wonderful!
GRIFFIN: (Stephanie’s eyes get wider as Griffin speaks.) How about…uh, you give me your number…I’ll call you.
MICHELLE: (Pulls a pen from her purse and writes her sister’s number down on a napkin. She hands it to Griffin and their hands gently brush. She blushes a little and twirls her hair.) It was really great seeing you again. Be sure to call, okay?
GRIFFIN: (Smiles widely) You bet. I’m dying to know how Chicago handled you. (She smiles flirtatiously and shakes her head as she walks away. Griffin watches her walk away for a few moments before he sits back down. Slowly and casually) How about that…
STEPHANIE: (Accusingly, as she also sits back down.) Was that…a date you just made with that…girl?
GRIFFIN: (Still in a daze, he shakes his head.) Huh, what? Oh, her…you got it all wrong. She’s just a friend...an old friend…(The waitress brings their drinks and Griffin, still in a daze, slowly unwraps the straw and puts it into his soda. Stephanie looks quite agitated. Griffin holds his fingers to his chin in deep thought.) I mean, the last time I saw her…(After a thoughtful moment, his expression suddenly changes as he fidgets in his chair.) It sure has been a while.
STEPHANIE: (Perturbed) Can we just change the subject, please? After all, I did compromise and come to this…place with you…so we could be even and put last weekend behind us. (Motherly) I’m so sorry I brought you someplace that made you so uncomfortable…(She notices that Griffin isn’t listening and let’s out a big sigh.) Are you ready to order?
GRIFFIN: Huh, oh…yeah. Sure. (Griffin beckons the waitress as the scene fades.)

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

SAN FRANCISCO GENERAL HOSPITAL. CHARLIE and KIRSTEN are walking out of a Lamaze class. Various couples are gathering up their things amidst muffled conversations. Charlie is carrying a rolled-up exercise pad and a pillow. Kirsten, who is wearing a loose-fitting sweat-suit, is holding some paperwork.

KIRSTEN: (To Charlie, jokingly) You would think after thirty years I would know how to breathe. (Charlie’s expression is unchanged as they begin walking down a hallway in the hospital.) And the stuff about “focusing”…“focus on this, focus on that.” I really don’t think it’s going to be a problem for me to “focus” on what I’m doing when I go in to labor. (She pauses for a moment, and then looks at Charlie.) Was it pretty much the same stuff they taught you and Daphne? (Charlie continues walking, not responding to the question.) Charlie?
CHARLIE: Huh?…Uh, yeah…pretty much.
KIRSTEN: (Stops walking) Were you even listening to me? (Charlie stops and turns toward Kirsten.)
CHARLIE: I… (Shaking his head) No, I’m sorry.
KIRSTEN: Is everything alright?
CHARLIE: (Sighs) Kirsten, what if… (He pauses for a moment.) What if I were to say I’m thinking of asking Daphne for full custody of Diana? (Kirsten looks shocked.) I know…it’s something we need to talk about…and we’ll have to make a decision together. It’s just…I would feel more comfortable knowing she’s with us.
KIRSTEN: (Confused) What do you mean “more comfortable.”
CHARLIE: (Thinking) Well, knowing what type of environment she’s in.
KIRSTEN: What type of…? Charlie, what brought this on?
CHARLIE: (Looking down, shaking his head) Look, I know how close the two of you have become…(looking at Kirsten) but can you honestly tell me that you think she’s a responsible parent?
KIRSTEN: (Firmly) Yes. Yes, Charlie…I can.
CHARLIE: (Slightly raising his voice) Even after the stripping incident?
KIRSTEN: (Dumbfounded) “The stripping incident”? Is that what this is about?
CHARLIE: Y’know, you may be able to make light of it, but I can’t…
KIRSTEN: (Interrupting, in an angry tone) You know what I think, Charlie? You sit there, and it’s like…you just wait for Daphne to make a mistake so you can jump on her about it. (Kirsten begins walking quickly toward the exit.)
CHARLIE: (Surprised) What? (Charlie follows her.) What are you talking about?
KIRSTEN: (Stops and looks at Charlie squarely.) You know it’s true. You were mad at her for going to LA…then you were mad at her for coming back…
CHARLIE: That is not true!
KIRSTEN: Then you’re mad at her for moving in with Luke…
CHARLIE: Now wait a minute. She hardly knew him when…
KIRSTEN: (Interrupting) Look, you can make all the excuses you want. The point is you’ve got Daphne under the microscope.
CHARLIE: Under the wha…? That isn’t fair…
KIRSTEN: Okay then – what if I were the one that stripped and not Daphne. Would you say I wasn’t a fit mother?
CHARLIE: (With a confused smile) What? C’mon, Kirsten. Don’t be ridiculous.
KIRSTEN: (Sternly) No, really. What if it were me. (Charlie continues smiling as he looks to the side.) Charlie, I want to know.
CHARLIE: (Regaining his normal tone) Kirsten, there are like a million reasons I love you…you know that. And one of the reasons I love you is because I don’t have to worry about things like that with you.

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

BAILEY is in his DORM ROOM, alone. He is lying back on his bed, talking to HOLLY on the phone. She is at her apartment in England.

HOLLY: Well, can’t you request a new room or something?
BAILEY: I tried, Holly. They said there’s nothing they can do about it this semester…that I should make another request around Christmas time.
HOLLY: Can you survive until then? With what you’re saying…
BAILEY: I’ve got no choice - I have to. (After a pause.) I guess I should be thankful that Cole’s around as little as he is. I mean, the guy hardly ever comes home before midnight, and when he does come home he usually passes out right away.
HOLLY: Well, I suppose that’s a help…but, um…how are you doing…I mean, with all…with him having the alcohol around?
BAILEY: Holly, that’s not the problem. The problem is he comes home drunk all the time…and – after what I’ve been through – it’s hard for me just to stand by and watch him mess up his life.
HOLLY: Hmm, I see...(Holly bites her nail as she tries to think of a solution for Bailey. There a few moments of silence before Bailey speaks.)
BAILEY: (Sighing dramatically) I guess there's only one thing I can do now…
HOLLY: What's that?
BAILEY: (Melodramatic) Drop out of school and come live with you. (Bailey smiles.)
HOLLY: (Smiling) Be serious, Bailey. As much as I miss you…
BAILEY: (Interrupting, teasingly) C’mon, Hol - wouldn’t you be happy if I could somehow go to…to Cambridge, or Oxford?
HOLLY: (Laughing to herself) You just don’t give up, do you? (Shakes her head and pauses for a moment) So, do you think you can deal with him for another three months?
BAILEY: (His smile fades) I guess I’ll just have to.

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

CLAUDIA’S DORM. CLAUDIA is walking down the hall from her room when she passes Heather’s room. She is surprised to see HEATHER putting on make-up.

CLAUDIA: (Curious) Hey! You must be going someplace special.
HEATHER: (Carefully applying mascara.) Oh…well, just a party…Tina and Val said some cute guys would be…(Bites her lip as she stands up with only one eye done.) I mean…
CLAUDIA: (Shocked.) What? But I thought…
HEATHER: That I didn't like them? Well…hey, um…they’re really not so bad once you get used to them.
CLAUDIA: (Crosses her arms) Hmph. (In her quiet tone) We’re just not compatible. (Regains a normal tone.) They have no appreciation for my music, they leave messes everywhere and expect everyone else…
HEATHER: Claudia! Do you know how uptight you sound? (Claudia looks confused) Do you know what you need? I think you need to come with us tonight.
CLAUDIA: (Backing away) Oh, no way, not with them.
HEATHER: Hey, what if we just go together. If we see them there…oh, well. We’ll have fun, and you’ll finally get out of this stuffy apartment!
CLAUDIA: Well…I don’t know…(thinking) I really should stay home with Nora and practice. We both have a pretty good shot at first chair and…
HEATHER: (Quietly) You are way better than Nora, you know that. Give yourself a break…(with a pleading look.) Besides, I would much rather go with you than Tina and Val…(Clasps her hands into a praying position.) Please…
CLAUDIA: (With hesitation.) Well, I guess I do need to get out more….but only because you’re going.
HEATHER: (Releases her hands with a gesture of excitement) Wonderful! Now let’s get you ready!

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

GRIFFIN is in the garage working on a motorcycle, when JULIA walks in. Her hair is neatly combed and she is wearing make-up and tight fitting jeans. Her legs look extremely thin.

JULIA: (Inquisitive) Griffin, what did you mean the other day?
GRIFFIN: (Holding a part in place on the bike, he looks up) Jul, I really can’t talk right…
JULIA: (Somewhat demanding) You said I look ‘pretty worn out lately.’ What did you mean by it?
GRIFFIN: (Sighs as he realizes she’s not going to let him finish working.) Hold on a sec. (Griffin quickly finishes attaching the part he was working on and then puts his tools down. He wipes his greasy hands on a rag as he stands up.) Now what were you saying?
JULIA: (Somewhat timid) Have I really looked that bad?
GRIFFIN: (Frustrated, he motions toward the bike) Julia, I…(Seeing her desperate look he shakes his head.) I dunno. You have looked…a little tired these past few weeks. (Taking a good look at her.) You look a lot better…but, uh…(gently pointing towards her eyes) that make up doesn’t…uh, cover those circles.
JULIA: (Offended) Griffin!
GRIFFIN: (Slightly cringes) Well…you wanted me to be honest, right? The truth is…I’m worried about you. You look like you haven’t been sleeping or eating.
JULIA: (Quietly) I haven’t.
GRIFFIN: (Not hearing her) What?
JULIA: (Looking down, she speaks a little louder.) I haven’t been…sleeping or eating. (There is an uncomfortable silence between the two for a few moments before Julia continues.) I…I have trouble falling asleep. These…images. I don’t know, maybe flashbacks…they…I just can’t get them out of my head. And eating…nothing tastes good to me. I try and force myself to eat something…but…(she pauses for a moment, before looking at Griffin squarely.) I’ve lost 20 pounds since I’ve been back home.
GRIFFIN: (Surprised) Geez, Julia. That’s not good. (Finishes wiping his hands and tosses the rag to the side.) I mean, you were skinny before. (Thinks for a moment) Have you…thought anymore about going to a doctor…or maybe even a, uh…counselor?
JULIA: (Sharply) I don’t need a counselor…or a doctor! (Turns around and hugs herself with her arms.) I’m just so confused.
GRIFFIN: (Walks over to her and stands behind her without touching her.) That’s understandable, Jules. (Pauses and speaks carefully) That’s why you…er, a counselor could help you straighten things out. (Julia is silent, so he continues.) I mean…you went through a lot. It’s understandable…
JULIA: (Turns around sharply) It’s been over a month, Griffin - it shouldn’t still be affecting me this way…
GRIFFIN: (Sympathetic) These things take time, Jul. (Pauses.) Hey, if you need help…
JULIA: (Defensive) I don’t need help! What I need is everyone to just stop telling me what I need to do! (Looks at Griffin with a desperate look.) Why did you have to bring it up again, anyway?
GRIFFIN: I brought it…? (Julia bites her nail as she rushes out of the garage. Griffin stands there shaking his head.)

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

Loud music and party lights blare from an apartment near Times Square in New York. HEATHER is dancing and CLAUDIA is trying to get her attention through the crowd in the tightly packed apartment. TINA and VALERIE are on the other side of the apartment dancing on a sofa. A crowd of good-looking young men have gathered around and are cheering them on. A young man gives Claudia a funny look as he pushes by her. He backs up and hands her a bottle of beer. She holds her hands out to refuse, but he doesn’t take no for an answer. She works her way through the tightly packed apartment until she reaches Heather.

CLAUDIA: (Trying to shout over the music) Heather! Heath… (Heather notices Claudia.) Hey I think I’m going to head back to the dorm…
HEATHER: (Holding her hand to her ear) What?
CLAUDIA: I’M GOING TO LEAVE!
HEATHER: (Stops dancing) What? Why? (As Claudia tries to talk to Heather, Curtis bumps into her.)
CURTIS: Claudia!
CLAUDIA: (Surprised) Hey! What are you doing here?
CURTIS: Actually, I don’t know. I was just trying to get out of here.
CLAUDIA: I know what you mean!
CURTIS: (Noticing the beer in Claudia’s hand.) Are you sure? Looks like you’re enjoying yourself.
CLAUDIA: (Looking at her bottle of beer) Oh, this? Some guy just handed it to me. (Curtis looks at Claudia questioningly. Just then, a group next to them begins smoking marijuana. One man offers a joint to Claudia while she is talking to Curtis. She pushes it away, but he thrusts it at her. Obstinately, Claudia takes the marijuana and looks at it, as she turns back towards Curtis.) See what I mean? (Curtis looks at the marijuana for a moment, then he takes it out of Claudia’s hand and throws it down. After a moment he holds his hand out to Claudia and motions towards the door with his head.)
CURTIS: What d’ya say we get outta her? (Claudia looks at Curtis, then at the group smoking marijuana. She takes Curtis’s hand and they begin pushing their way towards the door.)

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

GRIFFIN and MICHELLE are in the GUEST HOUSE. Michelle is sitting on the couch sideways, with her long legs curled behind her. She has a nice figure which is complimented by the tank-top and cut off jean shorts she is wearing. She’s not very glamorous, but has a natural beauty about her. She has very little make up and a simple hair style. Griffin enters the living room from the kitchen carrying two glasses. He hands one to her.

MICHELLE: Thank you. I haven’t had TAB in so long. They don’t have these back in Chicago. (She takes a sip.)
GRIFFIN: (Smirks) Yeah, but we don’t have White Castles out here.
MICHELLE: (Sitting up straight.) I didn’t know you liked sliders. (Smiling.) I coulda brought you some.
GRIFFIN: (Shaking his head.) Sliders? That don’t even sound appetizing. (He sits on the arm of the couch.) A girl I knew in school always talked about how she made her dad take her to White Castles as soon as she got there, every time they had a visit
MICHELLE: Man, speaking of kids from out of town…remember that one guy…(she snaps as she’s thinking) Oh, what was his name…remember? That guy you and Tony used to pick on.
GRIFFIN: (Jokingly defensive, he moves over to the chair.) Did not.
MICHELLE: Yeah-huh, remember when you and Tony tied him to the fence post at recess that one day…
GRIFFIN: (Smirks proudly) He sure did put up a fight…
MICHELLE: And our teacher thought for sure that he got kidnapped…
GRIFFIN: They even called the cops.
MICHELLE: Man did they freak! (Looking at Griffin) He never ratted on you guys, though. Even with all the stuff you put that poor kid through.
GRIFFIN: (Smirks as he takes a sip of his soda.) Yeah, but I bet that’s why he wasn’t around for fourth grade. (They both laugh out loud as they reminisce. After a few moments of silence, Griffin speaks again.) So…you visit often?
MICHELLE: Well, my sister actually just moved back here last year. She’s trying to get me a job. I miss the nice weather…Chicago winters are horrible!
GRIFFIN: (Smirking) Yeah, but you can’t build snow-men out here.
MICHELLE: Small price to pay to not have to bundle up like an Eskimo just to walk next door…or to not have to unbury your car every morning.
GRIFFIN: (Still smirking, he shakes his head.) Ah, the hard ship. (Pauses for a moment as he sips his drink.) So, any luck?
MICHELLE: Don’t know. I had a couple of interviews…nothing seems too promising, though. Guess we’ll just have to wait and see. (Sips her drink.) I’ve got one last interview tomorrow…just before I leave. Maybe that one will be…(She is interrupted by a knock at the door. Griffin puts his soda on an end table and walks toward the door.) Let me see who that is. (He opens the door to find Julia holding something that resembles a plate wrapped in tin-foil.) Hey, Julia.
JULIA: (Happy) Hey Grif. Look, I’m sorry about how I’ve been acting. Thought I’d bring a peace offering. (She pulls back the foil to show a pie.)
GRIFFIN: (Trying to sound excited) A pie. Wow, thanks Jul…
JULIA: (Walking past him into the house.) Mind if I come in? (Looking around) Yeah, it’s dutch apple...your favorite. (Faces Griffin.) Not that I actually baked, baked it…but I bought it and…threw it in the oven…(Julia looks into the living room and notices Michelle.) Oh, I’m sorry, Griffin. I didn’t know you had company.
GRIFFIN: (Shaking his head.) That’s okay, Jul…(walking into the living room.) This is an old friend of mine - Michelle Corothers. Michelle, this is Julia Salinger…(As he introduces them both of their faces light up into huge smiles.)
JULIA: Michelle! I didn’t recognize you. Oh, my God…how are you? (Throws her arms around Michelle in a warm embrace.)
MICHELLE: Julia…wow! (Backs away and looks Julia over.) You look positively incredible!
JULIA: (A bit stunned) Really? You think so.
MICHELLE: Yeah…as always. You were the glamorous one, remember? The latest hair-do, the coolest make-up…
JULIA: (Blushing) Oh, come on. (Thoughtful) Thanks for saying that, though…(Julia notices Griffin standing in the doorway staring at them.) Oh, hey look…I’m sorry to interrupt. (Begins walking toward the door.) Michelle, it’s so great to see you again. We’ll have to get together…hey, um, just get my number from Griffin and give me a call, okay. (Michelle nods.) See ya later. (Julia waves to Michelle and Griffin as she quickly opens the door and rushes out.)
GRIFFIN: (Closing the door behind Julia he shakes his head.) That was abrupt. (Walks back into the living room.)
MICHELLE: (Sitting down.) What a surprise! I didn’t know you knew Julia.
GRIFFIN: (Smirks) Know her? I was married to her.
MICHELLE: Was? You mean she actually got you and let you get away?
GRIFFIN: (A bit self-conscious) What’s that supposed to mean.
MICHELLE: Well, duh! She only had like this major crush on you in eighth grade—not that you ever noticed her or anything…
GRIFFIN: Really?
MICHELLE: We definitely have some catching up to do!

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

BAILEY is just finishing a sandwich at a local sports-bar in town. An open textbook is laying on his table, and he is alternating glances between the book and a ball game on the big-screen television. A busboy approaches him.

BUSBOY: (To Bailey, pointing to his empty plate) Are you finished with that?
BAILEY: Yeah…thanks. (The busboy clears the table and returns to the kitchen, walking past a rowdy group of guys at a pool table. The guys are talking very loudly, making fun of each other’s shots in an obnoxious manner. There are empty beer bottles lined up around the edges of the pool table. After a moment, Bailey notices Cole in the group, laughing loudly while holding a beer and shakes his head. Just then, Cole notices him.)
COLE: (From across the room) Hey, Salinger! (Sarcastic) You’re off campus…what happened? (Cole and his buddies laugh.)
BAILEY: (Looks up at Cole ready to protest, but instead waves his hand, pretending to be uninterested by Cole’s remark.)
COLE: (To his friends, but loud enough so Bailey can hear.) Yeah, that’s my roommate…er, sponsor. (Very sarcastic, he snickers toward Bailey) Thinks he can deliver me from the evils of drinking. (Cole and his buddies laugh and continue poking fun at Bailey.)
BUDDY 1: (Crouching into a mock praying position, he scooches across the floor on his knees.) Forgive me father, for I have drank too much.
BUDDY 2: (Laughing, he mocks an authoritative tone and points his finger at Cole.) Now, son. You should be studying like that good lad over there…(points towards Bailey and all the young men laugh. Bailey tries to concentrate, but gives up. After a few moments he begins packing up his books. Cole walks over to him.)
COLE: (Dramatically and harshly sits on the table. His words are slurred.) Hey Salinger, don’t go runnin’ back to school so quick—we finally got you out… (Sincerely) C’mon, man - join us for a game and a few beers.
BAILEY: (Sternly) That’s okay, man. (Tries to pick up his book, but Cole puts his hand on it.)
COLE: But this is your chance to prove yourself. (Pleadingly sarcastic) C’mon…don’t let them think I’m rooming with a wussy.
BAILEY: (Looks at Cole squarely) You know, if that’s your worst problem, man…I envy you! (Bailey stares intently at Cole as pulls his book from under Cole’s hand and walks away. Cole slides off the table and stands up.)
COLE: (Pointing at Bailey, he calls after him in an angry tone) You don’t know nothin’ about my problems, Salinger. (He rolls up a few napkins and forcefully throws them.)

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

CLAUDIA is sitting at a window table in a small coffee shop. She is drinking her hot cocoa out of a mug while CURTIS returns to sit with her. He is carrying a chess game.

CLAUDIA: Chess? I didn’t know you played…
CURTIS: I don’t…I was hoping you could teach me! (Claudia smiles.)
CLAUDIA: Uh, okay…well lets see…pawns can move only one space at a time; the castle moves as many squares as he wants…um…the knights move…
CURTIS: Claudia?
CLAUDIA: …two squares forward and one square to the side, kind of in an “L” shape. Let’s see…The Bishop moves diagonally…
CURTIS: Claudia! Uh…on second thought, what do you say we just play checkers? (Claudia laughs.)
CLAUDIA: (Sarcastically) Do I need to teach you how to play that, too?
CURTIS: (Laughing, with playful sarcasm) I don’t think so! I am the master at checkers!
CLAUDIA: (Claudia laughs then speaks in a softer tone.) Listen, Curtis - thanks for getting me out of that party. I don’t know how you always manage to save my life like that. (They both smile.)
CURTIS: Ah…It was no problem. I could tell you weren’t having any fun, and to tell you the truth, neither was I. Now, are you ready to play? I am totally going to whip your butt in this game! (They both laugh and begin to play checkers with the chess pieces.)

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

CHARLIE and KIRSTEN are in their bedroom. Charlie is on the phone and Kirsten is in the bathroom brushing her teeth.

CHARLIE: (Speaking into the phone) Joe, don’t worry about it. (Checking his watch) It’s not that late… (He listens for a moment.) Yeah, Bailey couldn’t do it either, so don’t feel bad. (He listens again.) Yeah, okay. I’m leaving now. (Charlie hangs up the phone as Kirsten walks into the bedroom.)
KIRSTEN: Is everything alright?
CHARLIE: It’s fine. This one beer tap seems to act up every couple of years…and I’m the only one who seems to know how to fix it.
KIRSTEN: So…you’re going up there? (Charlie nods.) (Concerned.) But it’s almost eleven.
CHARLIE: (Reassuring) Kirsten, relax. I won’t be more than an hour.
KIRSTEN: But…(she stops and bites her nail.)
CHARLIE: (Noticing a strange look on Kirsten’s face) What is it?
KIRSTEN: (Brushes a few hairs out of her face, she speaks quickly) Oh, nothing.
CHARLIE: No, that’s not “nothing”. What…you don’t want me to go? I mean, it can wait until tomorrow…
KIRSTEN: (Shakes her head) No, no…you should go…
CHARLIE: (Raising his eyebrows) Kirsten…
KIRSTEN: Okay, okay. (Sighs) Charlie, I really need to talk to you…

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

CLAUDIA'S DORM ROOM. CLAUDIA is sitting on her bed Indian-style holding a small piece of paper with a cordless phone in her lap. She is staring at the piece of paper and biting her lip. HEATHER stopped by the dorm in between classes. Heather enters the room.

HEATHER: (Interested) Whatcha up to?
CLAUDIA: (Shakes her head) Oh, nothing.
HEATHER: (Walking closer) That expression don't look like nothing... (Noticing the paper) What's that?
CLAUDIA: (Matter-of-factly) A phone number.
HEATHER: Whose number is it?
CLAUDIA: (Caught off guard) Um…well it’s…no one… (She crumples up the piece of paper.)
HEATHER: (Unsure) Claudia, you’re acting weird. Look, I’m sorry about last night. I should have known…
CLAUDIA: (Interrupting) Oh, I’m not mad about that. (A shy smile comes across her face.) Actually, I ended up having a great time last night. (She smiles as she thinks for a moment.) It’s just that…I don’t mean to depress you or anything, but I guess I’m starting to miss home. I mean, school is great and everything, and I’m making really great friends, but I…I guess I just need a little more time to get used to things here. Life here is so much…faster.
HEATHER: Yeah, I know what you mean. The “Big Apple” can be rough sometimes. Hey, just remember I’m from around here…we can go shopping sometime. I can show you around…and no parties!
CLAUDIA: (Smiling) Thanks, that sounds great.
HEATHER: So are you going to tell me whose number that is? (A look of excitement comes over her face.) Goodness, it’s that guy, isn’t it? That’s why you had such a great time last night…you left with him. Oh, Claud…you have to call him!
CLAUDIA: (Shakes her head) It’s not Curtis’ number…it’s my...my uh...I have a, uh...relatives, who live around here. Yeah...kinda... distant relatives. I was thinking about calling...them...but I...I just wasn't sure what they'd think, I mean...
HEATHER: Are you kidding! I'm sure they'd love to hear from you - hear how you got into Juilliard and all...
CLAUDIA: (Looks down) Oh, I don't know. I mean, we haven't talked in...
HEATHER: Oh, come on...family doesn't have time limits. Give them a call...I'll leave you alone. (Heather points at the phone in a stern but playful manner before exiting the room. Claudia un-crumples the piece of paper and stares at the number for a few moments. She reaches for the phone, but instead gets up from the bed and re-crumples the paper, tossing it on her night stand. She walks out of the room, but stops once she gets to the doorway. She turns around and stares at her night stand for a few moments. After slight deliberation, she walks to her bed and sits on the edge by the nightstand. She slowly picks up the phone and puts it to her ear. She smoothes out the crumpled piece of paper and dials the number. After a few rings, an answering machine picks up…)
ANSWERING MACHINE: "Hi, you've reached Sarah. I’m not home right now so leave a message and I’ll get back..." (Claudia quickly hangs up the phone. She places the paper back on her night-stand and quickly leaves the room as the picture fades.)