SAN FRANCISCO GENERAL HOSPITAL. CHARLIE is pacing back and forth, rubbing his eyes and his mouth in a nervous manner. He looks down the hall frequently, checking to see if Kirsten’s doctor has emerged from the room. JULIA is sitting next to OWEN, who is leaning on her, asleep. After a moment, Charlie stops pacing and turns toward Julia.

CHARLIE: (Extremely nervous, holding his hands out) What’s going on in there? Why won’t someone tell me what’s happening?
JULIA: (Comforting) I’m sure they’ll tell us as soon as they know something, Charlie. (Charlie begins pacing again. He sighs, and a moment later the doctor emerges from the room. Charlie walks toward the doctor, who pulls her face mask down. Julia stands up carefully so as not to wake up Owen.)
CHARLIE: (Nervously) Doctor, how is she? (Julia stands next to Charlie.)
DOCTOR: (Sighing) She’s still not conscious…(Charlie’s head drops, and his hand covers his eyes.) But she didn’t miscarry.
CHARLIE: (Looking up, with a surprised expression) She didn’t…? Are you sure?
DOCTOR: One hundred percent.
CHARLIE: (Confused, shaking his head) But the blood…?
DOCTOR: Yes, Mister Salinger. That’s one of the first signs of pre-term labor.
JULIA: (Quietly, covering her mouth) Oh my god…
CHARLIE: The baby is coming…now?
DOCTOR: (Nodding) I’m afraid so…
CHARLIE: (Looking very nervous again) But she’s…she’s only in her thirty-second week. How can this happen?
DOCTOR: We can only speculate, but there are many possibilities…(Charlie looks down, shaking his head) improper diet, the influence of drugs or alcohol, high levels of stress…(Charlie looks at her.) And sometimes it’s none of these things. Unexplainably, sometimes the baby just comes.
CHARLIE: But…is he going to be alright?
DOCTOR: (Reassuring) We’re going to do all we can, Mister Salinger. (A nurse comes out of the room.)
NURSE: (To doctor) Doctor Young, she’s awake. (The doctor puts her mask back on and begins walking toward the room. Charlie follows her. She turns toward Charlie.)
DOCTOR: I’m sorry, Mister Salinger. (They both stop walking.) Under normal circumstances I would invite you in myself…but because of her condition…
CHARLIE: (Nodding) I understand. (The doctor gives Charlie a sympathetic smile and walks into the room. Charlie turns around and looks at Julia.)

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

PHILADELPHIA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. BAILEY is sitting in his seat on a plane, waiting for takeoff. His cell phone is to his ear, and he hears an answering machine pick up.

BAILEY: (Into the phone) Holly, where are you? I’ve been leaving you messages for a couple days now, and…I’m getting worried. (After a brief pause.) Look, I’m heading to San Francisco. Kirsten was rushed to the hospital, and they don’t know if the baby’s going to be alright…so…I guess the best way to reach me is by cell phone. I’m going to try your sister’s place…see if she knows where you are. (Bailey hangs up, and begins dialing Holly’s sister’s number as a flight attendant walks by.)
FLIGHT ATTENDANT: Excuse me, sir? You’ll have to put your cell phone away. We’re about to take off. (Bailey looks at her for a moment, then turns off his cell phone. The flight attendant walks away, and Bailey gazes out the window and sighs.)

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

GUEST HOUSE. JULIA walks to the door with OWEN, who rubs his eyes as he yawns. GRIFFIN answers in his boxers, his hair is a mess.

JULIA: I’m really sorry to bother you so late, but, uh…Kirsten’s in the hospital, and…
GRIFFIN: (Opens the door wider) Whoa, what hap…
JULIA: She went into premature labor…they don’t know if the baby’s gonna make it…
OWEN: (Rubbing his eyes) Can I go to sleep now?
JULIA: Hold on, O…(To Griffin) Anyway, I’d really like to be at the hospital, and I was hoping…
GRIFFIN: Oh, yeah…sure. (To Owen) Come on in, buddy. (Griffin opens the door all the way and Owen goes in.)
JULIA: Thank you so much, Griffin. (With a faint smile) I know this isn’t exactly how you wanted to spend your Thursday night…
GRIFFIN: Hey, don’t worry about it. Let me know if there’s anything I can do.
JULIA: This really helps. Thanks, Grif. I, uh…better get goin’.
GRIFFIN: Yeah…we’ll be fine. (Julia walks away and Griffin goes into the house. Owen has crawled into Griffin’s bed, snuggled up with Stephanie and fallen right to sleep. Griffin walks into the bedroom, sees this and smiles. Stephanie opens her eyes.)
STEPHANIE: (Whispering, upset) What is he doing here?
GRIFFIN: Julia dropped him off. Kirsten…
STEPHANIE: (Whispering louder) He can’t sleep here.
GRIFFIN: C'mon, Stef. Don’t…
STEPHANIE: How am I gonna get any rest with this…kid laying here. (Pouting) Anyway, I want to cuddle with you. (Stephanie looks pleadingly at Griffin for several moments. Griffin looks at Owen who is sleeping soundly.)
GRIFFIN: But he looks so peaceful…
STEPHANIE: (Still pouting) He’ll be fine on the couch…(Griffin sighs as he looks adoringly at Owen for several moments. Finally he gives in, picks Owen up and moves him into the living room. He carefully sets Owen down on the couch. Owen is stirred awake from the movement, he stretches and speaks, still half asleep.)
OWEN: But I want to sleep with you…(Owens words drift off as he falls back into a deep sleep. Griffin watches him sleep for several minutes, periodically glancing toward the bedroom with a look of apprehension. Finally, Griffin covers Owen with the blanket on the back of the couch. He leans over and kisses Owen on the forehead, before slowly heading back to the bedroom. He stops in the doorway to turn around and look at Owen again before proceeding to bed.)

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

SAN FRANCISCO GENERAL HOSPITAL. CLAUDIA and TODD are at the information desk, talking to a nurse.

NURSE: It’s “Kirsten Salinger,” right?
CLAUDIA: Yes. (The nurse looks at her computer screen for a moment.)
NURSE: (Still looking at her screen) Mrs. Salinger hasn’t been assigned a room.
CLAUDIA: (Impatiently) That’s impossible. The emergency room said she was moved out of there hours ago. Can you please check again?
NURSE: (Looking at Claudia) I’m sorry, there’s nothing in the computer. I can’t tell you what I don’t know. (Claudia twiddles her fingers and looks extremely nervous.) You might want to check maternity…that’s the only other place she could be. (Claudia gives Todd a concerned look.) The elevator is right behind you…maternity is on the second floor.
TODD: (To the nurse) Thank you. (Claudia and Todd begin walking toward the elevator. As the elevator opens, they hear a voice call out from behind.)
VOICE: Claudia! (Claudia turns to see Bailey, holding a cell phone to his ear.)
CLAUDIA: (Surprised) Bailey? (Bailey hurries into the elevator, putting his cell phone away. Bailey and Claudia hug as Todd pushes the button for the second floor.)
BAILEY: Hey, Todd.
TODD: Hey.
CLAUDIA: I didn’t know if you were gonna make it. Julia said she couldn’t get a hold of you…
BAILEY: I know…I got her message, and then I jumped online and booked the next flight. Have you heard anything?
CLAUDIA: The nurse thinks Kirsten may be in labor.
BAILEY: (Shocked) What? (The elevator door opens, and the trio emerges from the elevator.)
CLAUDIA: Well, she couldn’t find a room with Kirsten’s name…and she left the emergency room hours ago. (She sees Charlie sitting in a chair. His head is bent down and he is running his fingers through his hair.) Charlie! (Seeing the trio he slowly looks up. He has bags under his eyes and appears exhausted. Claudia rushes to him and hugs him.) How is she?
CHARLIE: (Releasing Claudia’s embrace, sniffling) She…um…she…(shaking his head).
BAILEY: (Nervously) She’s okay, isn’t she?
CHARLIE: (Nodding) Yeah…Kirsten’s okay, but…
CLAUDIA: (Covering her mouth with her hands) Oh my God…
BAILEY: The baby?
CLAUDIA: Please say he’s okay…
CHARLIE: (Choked up as he speaks) The doctors have him. (Holding back tears) He…he has what they call an…intracranial hemorrhage. (Charlie covers his eyes for a moment, trying to gain his composure.) His, um, his brain…it’s…bleeding. (Claudia’s eyes begin tearing up and Todd puts his hand on her shoulder. Bailey lowers his head, looking into Charlie’s eyes.)
BAILEY: Charlie, is he…going to be okay?
CHARLIE: (Looking up, sniffling) They say it’s “mild” bleeding, but…anything having to do with the brain…(shaking his head). You just never know.
CLAUDIA: (Cautiously) Charlie, are you…okay? Is there anything we can do?
CHARLIE: (After a moment, he speaks quietly) You’ve already done it...(looking at all of them.) You’re here. (A thoughtful moment of silence passes before Claudia speaks.)
CLAUDIA: (Looking around) So where’s Julia and Owen?
CHARLIE: Griffin’s watching Owen. Julia dropped him off a few hours ago. She went downstairs to get some coffee.
CHARLIE: (After a silent pause Charlie looks at his watch) I don’t know if it’s getting late or early. (Shaking his head) Look, I better call Luke…
BAILEY: (Interrupting) Charlie, I’m here, man. I’ll take care of it. (Putting his hand on Charlie’s shoulder) Okay? (Charlie nods, forcing a faint smile. Bailey’s eyes begin tearing up, and the two brothers hug. Charlie begins crying unashamedly as the scene fades.)

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

DAPHNE AND LUKE’S APARTMENT. LUKE and DAPHNE are in bed as the first beams of sunlight begin showing through the window. Luke is on the telephone, and Daphne is sitting up, listening to Luke speaking.

LUKE: (Into the phone) Yeah. (He listens.) I appreciate that, Bailey…but I’m sure things will be okay. I’ll ask Amanda to pull some extra hours...tell Charlie not to worry one bit. (Listens again.) Yeah…hey, and tell him to hang in there…if he needs anything…(listening.) Okay, thanks. (He hangs up the phone and turns to Daphne.)
DAPHNE: (Nervously) What happened?
LUKE: (With stunned disbelief) Kirsten almost lost the baby…
DAPHNE: (Shocked) My God…
LUKE: Apparently he’s stable, but he only weighs four pounds…and there are some complications. (He pauses a moment.) (Looking down) I…uh…I told Bailey to let Charlie know…he can take whatever time he needs right now. (Shaking his head) I know how you feel about my hours, but…
DAPHNE: (Interrupting) No, Luke…you did the right thing. (Luke looks up with a grateful smile.) Any father would want to be there for his son, right?

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

CHARLIE'S HOUSE. JULIA is sitting at the kitchen table eating a muffin and reading the Sunday Paper. CLAUDIA enters wearing her pajamas. Claudia walks over to the refrigerator and pours herself a glass of orange juice before joining Julia for a muffin. They sit in silence for a few moments as Julia flips through the pages. Claudia finally makes an attempt at conversation.

CLAUDIA: So when do you think they’ll know for sure that Stewie will be okay?
JULIA: (Without looking up from her paper) I don’t know, Claud. I mean, it’s only been a couple days. We’ll just have to be patient. (Claudia is quiet for a few moments as she takes a bite of her muffin. Again, she tries making conversation.)
CLAUDIA: So…uh, what’s been going on the past couple months?
JULIA: (Takes a sip of coffee as she flips a page.) Nothing, really.
CLAUDIA: Julia, come on. We haven’t talked in months. Can’t you put the paper down for a few minutes?
JULIA: (Looks up from the paper) What? Oh…(Sets the paper on the table.) I’m sorry, Claud…there was just this real interesting story about domestic violence and…
CLAUDIA: Yeah, I hear you’ve been doing some volunteer work.
JULIA: (Proudly) I have. It’s been great…
CLAUDIA: (Concerned) I also hear you’ve been working a lot of hours…(Leans toward Julia and speaks in a quiet tone) Do you really think that’s wise, Julia. I mean, with everything you’ve been through…
JULIA: (Defensive) I’m fine, Claudia. (Standing up) God, can’t anyone let me get on with my life? (Bailey enters and quietly walks over to the coffee pot. Claudia stands up.)
CLAUDIA: (Soothing) Julia, I’m not trying to upset you…it’s just that…well, I know how upset you were after the attack. (Looking down) I also know how scary something like that is and, well…
JULIA: Look, I know you’re trying to be helpful, Claud, but I’m over it. I’ve moved on. So how about if you do the same. (Julia sits back down and sharply picks her paper up as Claudia stares at her for a moment, with a hurt expression.)
CLAUDIA: Fine! (Her lower lip trembles as she turns and walks out of the room.)
BAILEY: Whoa, Julia…wasn’t that a little harsh?
JULIA: (Noticing Bailey) What? Oh…(pushes the paper down) I don’t know, Bay…(Julia leans back in the chair.) I don’t know what to think anymore. (Bailey grabs his cup of coffee and sits across from Julia.)
BAILEY: (Sighs) I know what you mean…
JULIA: (Sits up, curious) What’s that supposed to mean?
BAILEY: (Begins to speak but then leans back in his chair, shaking his head.) Naw, we were talking about you here…
JULIA: Trust me, I could use a little break from talking about me. (Bailey straightens up and takes a sip of coffee before speaking.)
BAILEY: I just don’t understand women. One day you’re their “knight in shining armor”…the next day they won’t return your calls.
JULIA: Holly?
BAILEY: Yeah, I mean…things have been great between us. (Looking down) Well, despite being half way across the world from each other. But I’ve left like a hundred messages telling her what’s going on and…she hasn’t returned one. (To himself, shaking his head) Not one.
JULIA: Well, maybe she’s just really busy. You know how things can…
BAILEY: Too busy to call her boyfriend who just rushed clear across the country because he almost lost his nephew? That’s just not like her.
JULIA: (Smiling at Bailey) I’m sure she’ll call soon. And she’ll have a good reason for not calling.
BAILEY: (Hesitates for a moment before speaking) Yeah, I suppose you’re right. (Looking at his watch) Oh, hey, it’s almost time for visiting hours at the hospital.
JULIA: Let’s get going. (They both stand up.) I’ll go get Claud.
BAILEY: (Holds his arm out to stop Julia) I better go get Claud. (Julia looks at Bailey with a confused expression, but Bailey’s remains stern. After a moment Julia shrugs and raises her eyebrows in reserved agreement.)

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

KIRSTEN’S HOSPITAL ROOM. KIRSTEN is lying asleep in her bed, and CHARLIE is sleeping in a chair next to her. They are both awakened as a nurse enters the room.

NURSE: (Overly cheerful) Good morning. My name is Sylvia Blake, and I’m with the NICU program. (Charlie looks at her with a blank stare.) Are you…familiar with NICU? (Kirsten answers “Yes” at the same time that Charlie answers “No.” They frown at each other.) NICU stands for “Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.” We provide special care for premature newborns.
CHARLIE: What kind of special care?
NURSE: Well, that depends on the baby. In some cases, it’s just constant observation, making sure that the baby is making progress. In the worst cases, it involves aiding the baby in breathing, monitoring the heart rate and blood flow, delivering fluids, nutrients and medications…that sort of thing. In the case of your son, we anticipate him needing the ventilator to help him breathe for at least another two days…and we’d like to monitor the status of his hemorrhage.
CHARLIE: (Upset) Another two days?
NURSE: Mister Salinger…
CHARLIE: (Apologetically, looking down) No, I’m…(sighs and looks at the nurse) I’m sorry. It’s not you…I’m just worried. (Looking up at the nurse) Three days ago they told us he’d probably be breathing on his own in two days…and now we need another two days. It’s not that I don’t appreciate what you’re doing…I’m just worried because…he doesn’t seem to be healing as quickly as the doctors expected.
NURSE: I understand your concern, Mister Salinger. But believe me – every child is different. Your son’s condition is progressing…just not at the rate that we first anticipated. (Charlie nods, looking down.)
KIRSTEN: So, this NICU program…does that mean you’ll be moving him to another part of the hospital?
NURSE: (Reassuringly) No, we like to keep the baby as close to the parents as possible. (Walking toward the door) Your nurse can page me if you need anything.
CHARLIE: Thank you. (Charlie and Kirsten watch as the nurse leaves the room.)

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

SAN FRANCISCO GENERAL HOSPITAL. JULIA and CLAUDIA are sitting in a waiting room.

JULIA: Wait – I don’t get it. So…you really didn’t get permission to take off from Juilliard?
CLAUDIA: Well, I filled out a “family emergency” form and left it with admissions and records. I just…sort of…didn’t wait for them to approve it.
JULIA: (Concerned) Claudia!
CLAUDIA: (Tilting her head) Come on, Julia – are you really gonna tell me you wouldn’t have done the same thing? (Julia raises her eye brows.) You know you would have. (Julia looks sternly at Claudia for a few moments before Claudia continues.) Hey, at least I filled out the paperwork. Bailey just left voice messages for his professors. (Bailey approaches Claudia and Julia from the direction of Kirsten’s room. They stand up as they see him, but Bailey motions for them to sit back down.)
BAILEY: It’s going to be a few minutes. I peeked in their room…there was a nurse going over some stuff with them. (Bailey sits down next to the girls.)
CLAUDIA: God, I feel so bad for them.
JULIA: (Looking down, almost to herself) Yeah…as if things weren’t bad enough before all this.
BAILEY: What?
CLAUDIA: What do you mean?
JULIA: (Caught off guard) Huh? I-- (Relaxing) Well, maybe I shouldn’t say anything, but…well, Charlie and Kirsten haven’t exactly been getting along lately. Kirsten didn’t want to go into details, but she kinda told me they’ve got some stuff to work out.
CLAUDIA: (Thinking) You know, now that you mention it…they were acting kind of funny yesterday. Just – y’know – being really quiet around each other. I thought it was just the stress from everything going on with Stewie. (Bailey listens with a concerned look.)
JULIA: Oh, I’m sure it was…for the most part. (Claudia looks very worried) Hey, whatever problems they’re having…I’m sure this is going to pull them together.

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

GRIFFIN and MICHELLE have just exited an apartment building and are walking down the street when Michelle sees a park. She takes Griffin’s hand and leads him towards it.

MICHELLE: C'mon, Griffy…let’s play on the swings. (Griffin unwillingly follows her. He sits on a swing next to her, while she begins to swing.) Kinda like we used to do, huh?
GRIFFIN: (With playful sarcasm) Yeah, when we were seven, maybe.
MICHELLE: (Swinging) Oh, don’t be a poop. Push me.
GRIFFIN: Eh, that’s okay. You’re doing fine.
MICHELLE: (Slows herself down. In a playfully whiny tone.) Aw c'mon, Griffy…push me! (She comes to a stop.)
GRIFFIN: (With a smirk) I thought you weren’t gonna call me that in public. (Michelle looks at him with puppy dog eyes for a few moments before Griffin gives in.) Oh, all right. (Griffin gets up and pushes her back and forth on the swing a few times before pushing her high up and running under the swing. They both laugh.)
MICHELLE: (Laughing as she swings very high) Still haven’t lost your touch!
GRIFFIN: (Bending over) You wear me out. (Michelle slows down and hops off the swing.)
MICHELLE: (Taunting) What’s a matter…old man? (She walks over to him and taps him on the shoulder before running off.) Tag, you’re it! (Griffin watches her run off for a moment, before she turns around taunting him to chase her. He shakes his head before darting off after her.)
GRIFFIN: I’ll tag you all right! (He easily catches up to her and tackles her. They roll on the ground for a few feet before coming to a stop, both lying on their backs. Michelle lands perpendicular to Griffin and leans her head back on his chest. The laugh for several minutes before catching their breath.) I forgot how much fun we always had.
MICHELLE: (Turning onto her stomach so she can face Griffin.) We sure did, didn’t we.
GRIFFIN: (Almost to himself) Why can’t relationships be like that?
MICHELLE: What d’ya mean? Relationships are supposed to be fun. I mean, isn’t that why people date? (Rolling over onto her back again.) Just means you haven’t found the right one.
GRIFFIN: The “right one”…what is that?
MICHELLE: Someone who you always have fun with…no matter how much time passes. (Takes a deep breath and sighs.) When you find her you’ll know.
GRIFFIN: Yeah, well…I’m getting a little too good at finding the wrong one. (Michelle rolls onto her side and rests her head on her hand.)
MICHELLE: So why are you still with her?
GRIFFIN: (Defensive) I’m not talking about Stephanie…(Michelle raises an eyebrow.)
MICHELLE: Then who are you talking about? (Griffin tries to speak, but can’t find the words.) I mean, if she’s not the right one then she’s the wrong one. So why waste your time…and hers?
GRIFFIN: Well, because I…I don’t know that she’s not the right one. (Sits up, and fidgets. Thinks for a moment before continuing with a defensive tone.) Anyway, you’re a lousy person to be giving relationship advice, aren’t you?
MICHELLE: (Chuckling) Don’t you go turning this around on me…we were talking about you.
GRIFFIN: Well, why don’t we talk about you, and your…fairy tale look at love. It hasn’t gotten you very far, now has it.
MICHELLE: (Shaking her head as she smiles at Griffin) And just what do you mean by that?
GRIFFIN: Well, you said you didn’t have one serious relationship in Chicago…and, well, that just seems like a long time to not even be out looking.
MICHELLE: (Smiling warmly) Oh, Griffy…there’s no need to look when you know what you want. (Pauses for a moment.) Like I told you, there’s no point in wasting my time on “Mr. Wrong”…anyhow, I know the guy I’m meant to love for the rest of my life is not a Chicagoan.
GRIFFIN: (Doubtful) And how do you know that without even trying? I mean, isn’t that being a little biased?
MICHELLE: (Calmly) No…I know what I want. (She picks a dandelion and begins plucking the leaves.) I’ve always known the right man for me was…I don’t know, somewhere around…here.<
GRIFFIN: (Playfully sarcastic) What? This park? (Points to a group of kids playing.) Hey, maybe it’s that boy over there.
MICHELLE: Oh stop. (She playfully pushes Griffin and he dramatically falls over. They wrestle for a few moments and Michelle pins him. She looks deeply into his eyes and begins moving her lips closer to his. She looks intently into his eyes for a moment, but her gaze is not returned. Quickly, she licks her finger and gives him a wet willy.)
GRIFFIN: Oh, yuck! (He rolls out from under her and wipes his ear with his sleeve.) You’re just upset cuz you know I’m right.
MICHELLE: (Smiling with a stern, yet playful expression) Al contrair…it is you who’s upset. (Her smile fades for a moment as she looks down and closes her eyes. Quickly, she regains her composure as Griffin, unaware of her change in expression, stares at her shaking his head. After a moment he gets up and brushes the grass off his shirt and pants.)
GRIFFIN: Well, we better get back to house huntin’.
MICHELLE: (Jokingly) You know, maybe it’s just you who stops being fun in your relationships. (She smiles playfully at Griffin as he shakes his head. After a moment he holds out his hand to help her get up. She brushes herself off and they begin walking toward the next apartment.)

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

SAN FRANCISCO GENERAL HOSPITAL. CHARLIE is looking at his son through a large window. STEWIE is in an isolette with a device to help him breathe. He looks very fragile. There are several other babies in the room, and nurses with clipboards are constantly checking on them. After a moment, DOCTOR YOUNG approaches Charlie.

DOCTOR YOUNG: (With a slight smile) So, you’re on “dawn patrol,” huh?
CHARLIE: (Still with a serious expression) Huh? Oh, yeah. Kirsten’s still sleeping.
DOCTOR YOUNG: Considering the time, I don’t blame her. Shouldn’t you be sleeping yourself?
CHARLIE: I was. It’s just…(looking at the isolette) Nick’s a week old today. And he’s still here…
DOCTOR YOUNG: (Comforting) He’s doing fine, Mister Salinger. The ventilator is there just in case, but he’s been breathing on his own for a day now…his hemorrhage is gone. I think he’ll be ready to go home the day after tomorrow.
CHARLIE: (Sincerely) Yeah, I know…and I couldn’t be more thankful for that…really. But I can’t help thinking…(shaking his head). You see, me and Kirsten…we had this fight…right before she collapsed. And…
DOCTOR: (Interrupting, looking at Charlie) Mister Salinger…(sincerely) Charlie, I think I know where you’re going with this…but you can’t blame yourself. (Charlie looks down.) The reason that there are so many possible causes of premature birth is because we don’t have any scientific data to prove any of them. So believe me when I tell you this…in all likelihood, this would have happened no matter what. (Charlie looks up.) No matter what.

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

SAN FRANCISCO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. CLAUDIA and TODD arrive at Todd’s terminal and sit down.

CLAUDIA: Todd, I’m her sister. I don’t understand why she won’t talk to me.
TODD: Maybe she just needs some time…
CLAUDIA: It’s been months! I mean, we don’t talk like sisters anymore…every time I tried talking to her…it was like I was a…nuisance…like she doesn’t need a sister…
TODD: Claudia, don’t be ridiculous! Listen…I’m sure Julia will open up to you once she’s ready.
CLAUDIA: (Thinks for a moment) Maybe you’re right…I hope you are, anyway. It just makes me feel so…useless. (There is an announcement of a flight that is boarding. Todd grabs his bags and looks at Claudia.)
TODD: Well…that’s me.
CLAUDIA: (Looks down) Yeah…(Todd puts his bags down and gives Claudia a hug. While embracing, Claudia reaches up to wipe a tear from her eye.)
TODD: I know I should go, but…I can’t just say goodbye again knowing that…that all I’ll have is that picture by my bed. I don’t want to have to wait until Thanksgiving.
CLAUDIA: (Trying to smile) Todd, its only a month…
TODD: (Gently caressing her face) Yeah, a month too long.
CLAUDIA: (Sniffling) It’ll be okay. Look, I know things were rough…that I didn’t do a very good job of keeping in touch…(Looks up into Todd’s eyes) but I thought about you every day. (Smiling sheepishly) You know, when I think about you in Chicago…and all those pretty girls...makes me wonder how long I’ll be able to keep you. (Todd laughs.)
TODD: Hey, I think you’re forgetting what a dork I am when it comes to picking up chicks. (Claudia laughs.)
CLAUDIA: Hey…you picked me up didn’t you?
TODD: (Laughing) I sure did. (They smile at each other for a moment before embracing each other tightly. Claudia kisses Todd very lovingly before whispering in his ear.)
CLAUDIA: I love you…

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

HOLLY’S APARTMENT. HOLLY is reading a textbook at her desk. The phone rings, and Holly pays no attention to it. After a few rings, the answering machine picks up and she hears BAILEY’S VOICE.

ANSWERING MACHINE (BAILEY): (Sounding desperate) Holly, if you’re there, please pick up. (A brief pause.) Holly, look…I’ve been trying to reach you for two weeks already…I don’t know why you’re not taking my calls. If I did something to upset you, you’ve got to tell me. But please…don’t just…avoid me. (Sighs) Look, I’m at Charlie’s…(Holly picks up the phone.) Holly? Hello?
HOLLY: (Stand-offish) Yes.
BAILEY: Oh my God…Holly! What…what happened? I’ve been so worried about you!
HOLLY: I’m fine.
BAILEY: But…I’ve been calling you…
HOLLY: (Finishing his sentence, sounding slightly annoyed) Every day…sometimes two or three times. I know.
BAILEY: So why haven’t you picked up?
HOLLY: (Sighs) Bailey, look…the only reason I’m talking to you now is because I know what you must be going through with Charlie’s baby. As mad as I am at you, and as much as I feel I owe you no explanations after what you’ve done…I also feel that I shouldn’t be adding to your problems right now.
BAILEY: (Shocked) What? Holly, what did I…?
HOLLY: (Aggravated) Bailey, don’t play dumb with me. It just makes you look worse.
BAILEY: Holly, I swear…I have no idea what you’re talking about.
HOLLY: Look, I’m not going to play this game, okay? Last week I called you, but your roommate answered. (Sarcastically) Apparently, he thought I was someone named “Maria,” whom I’ve never heard of…
BAILEY: Holly, she’s just someone I study with. I met her…
HOLLY: (Interrupting) Bailey, I don’t care about that. (She pauses a moment, composing herself.) He also told me that…that you were avoiding some girl that you slept with. (She tries forcing back a tear.)
BAILEY: What? Holly, please…you’ve got to believe me…
HOLLY: Bailey, I don’t want to talk about it. I’ve listened to you…I’ve believed you too many times in the past. I realize now that some people just never change.
BAILEY: Holly!
HOLLY: Look, Bailey…you’ve got enough on your mind right now. Don’t waste your time thinking about us because…well, there is no “us” anymore.
BAILEY: Holly, please…listen for just…
HOLLY: (Interrupting) I hope everything will be alright with your nephew. Goodbye, Bailey.
BAILEY: Holly – don’t…(She hangs up, and Bailey leans on the wall, still holding the receiver.)

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

CHARLIE'S HOUSE. GRIFFIN enters through the back door and calls out to Owen, but there is no response. Suddenly, Owen comes rushing down the stairs wearing a Shemp mask and carrying something Griffin can’t quite make out.

OWEN: (Excited) Griffin! (Rushes over and hugs Griffin.)
GRIFFIN: (Smiling) Happy Halloween, O. You sure look all set…
OWEN: Julia helped get me ready…hope you don’t mind. I figured this way we could get going as soon as you got here. (Griffin smirks as Owen backs away and hands Griffin what he was carrying.)
OWEN: Here, you can be Moe.
GRIFFIN: (Holds his arm out) That’s okay…
OWEN (Whiny) You have to, Griffin. Please…(Griffin smirks as he stares at the mask. After a moment he shrugs and puts in on. Owen applauds.) Yeah! (Calling upstairs) Okay, Julia. Come on! (Griffin tries to get the mask off before Julia gets downstairs. Before he can get it off he starts to chuckle. Julia is wearing a Larry mask.) Nyuk, nyuk, nyuk.
JULIA: (Playful) So you’re in on this also.
GRIFFIN: Me? Hey, he just…(Looking at Julia, he smiles with playful sarcasm.) You look pretty cute in that you know.
JULIA: (Playfully pushes Griffin) Oh, stop. I didn’t know you were going with us.
GRIFFIN: With you? Owen and I were gonna…
OWEN: (Interrupting) Now we’re really the three stooges. Come on, let’s go trick-or-treating. (Julia and Griffin smile at each other as they follow Owen out the door.)

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

GRIFFIN and JULIA are standing on the sidewalk as OWEN runs up to ring the doorbell. A lady waits nearby as her children ring the same doorbell. The lady looks at Owen, then back at Julia and Griffin who, with Owen’s insistence, are still wearing their masks.

LADY: Aw, how adorable! Very few parents dress up with their kids. I bet he just loves it.
JULIA: Oh, we’re not…(The lady winks at them as she and her children move on to the next house. Julia looks at Griffin and they giggle. Owen returns from the door with a disappointed look on his face.)
GRIFFIN: What’s a matter, buddy?
OWEN: (Whiny) No one’s giving out any candy…all I got was a couple pennies. Then, nobody was even home at the last few houses…(Julia and Griffin stare at each other, not sure what to say. A mischievous grin comes over Griffin’s face.)
GRIFFIN: I know what we need…(Julia and Owen give him a funny look.) We just need to play our parts. Nyuk, nyuk, nyuk. (Griffin bops Owen on the head and pretends to poke Julia in the eyes.) Come on, after all we are the three stooges! (Owen gets into the spirit right away, poking and pushing at Griffin and Julia. After a few moments, Julia can’t resist and she joins in the antics as well. The scene fades as they walk down the block poking and smacking each other playfully while laughing hysterically.)

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

CHARLIE and BAILEY are in Charlie’s truck. Charlie is driving, and Bailey’s bags are in the back of the truck.

BAILEY: I appreciate the ride, Charlie…but I could’ve taken a cab.
CHARLIE: C’mon, Bay. You flew across the country to be here for us…you think I’m going to let you take a cab to the airport? (Bailey smiles.) Besides, since Kirsten came home yesterday…(shaking his head) I don’t know…
BAILEY: (Interested) What?
CHARLIE: (Sighs) Well, when we were in the hospital, I guess me and Kirsten…well, were so preoccupied with everything going on that we really didn’t have time to think about the…problems we’re having. But now that we’re back home…I don’t know…it’s just…awkward.
BAILEY: Awkward?
CHARLIE: Well, I guess it’s…(He looks at Bailey, sighs, then returns his gaze to the road.) We had an argument – a bad argument – right before she collapsed. Of course, she hasn’t said anything…but I’m sure she blames me for happened with Nick. And…I can’t really blame her for thinking that.
BAILEY: Charlie, c’mon…you can’t possibly...
CHARLIE: Look, Bay…I know you’re trying to help. Even the doctor said it probably would have happened no matter what. But…(Shaking his head, he looks at Bailey.) You guys weren’t there. The fight we had…I know it caused the problems with Nick.
BAILEY: Charlie…
CHARLIE: (Interrupting) And no matter what anyone says…I know it was me.

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

GRIFFIN rushes into the GUEST HOUSE to find STEPHANIE standing in the living room dressed eloquently as Cleopatra. She looks stunning in her Egyptian-style skirt with tassels. She looks oddly at Griffin as he realizes his Moe mask is still on and removes it.

STEPHANIE: Where’ve you been? You were supposed to be here at five o’clock! And here it is, almost six…
GRIFFIN: (Rushes towards the bedroom.) Sorry, I lost track of time. (Enters the bedroom and begins looking around frantically.) Where’s my costume?
STEPHANIE: (Sarcastic) Oh, you mean you’re not wearing the mask?
GRIFFIN: (Stands in the bedroom doorway.) Look, we, don’t really have time for…how about if you just help me find my costume so we can get to this party.
STEPHANIE: You know, suddenly you’re so worried when a few minutes ago…
GRIFFIN: A few minutes ago what? I was trick-or-treating with Owen. (Stephanie folds her arms and peers and Griffin.) What? His brother’s at the hospital after almost losing his baby…is that…
STEPHANIE: Don’t you see? That doesn’t make him your responsibility. (Walks into the bedroom and opens the closet door.)
GRIFFIN: This isn’t about responsibility…(Looks down.) God! I knew this would happen...(Griffin runs his fingers through his hair in frustration as Stephanie grabs his costume from the closet and hands it to him.)
STEPHANIE: (Still slightly perturbed) Here you go.
GRIFFIN: (Looks at the costume for a moment, then at Stephanie. After a moment of silent thought he tosses it on the bed.) No, you know what…I’m not gonna go.
STEPHANIE: (Picking up the costume) Darling, don’t be silly…
GRIFFIN: I didn’t even want to go in the first place…and then you…
STEPHANIE: (Tosses her hair out of her eyes and offers the costume to Griffin.) Come on, darling, let’s go and have a good time. You deserve that. (Griffin stares intently at the wall for a few moments before speaking.)
GRIFFIN: (Softly, but sternly) No.
STEPHANIE: (Confused, she chuckles.) What?
GRIFFIN: (Looks directly at Stephanie.) I said “no”.
STEPHANIE: (Lighthearted.) No, what?
GRIFFIN: (Sternly) Don’t make this difficult. Look, I’m not going to this party with you.
STEPHANIE: (Plops on the bed.) Great! So now you’re gonna let that little boy ruin the whole evening. (After a brief pause she reaches for Griffin’s hand.) Darling, you know how important this party is to my career…(Griffin pulls his hand away.)
GRIFFIN: (Upset) Do you have any idea how sick and tired I am of your career? I mean we used to have fun, but now…(To himself) Now everything’s about your career…
STEPHANIE: But darling…
GRIFFIN: You know I have a career also. Maybe it’s not the most elegant or glamorous but…I work on bikes and I take care of Owen. What about my career? Owen needs someone to be there for him and I’m not gonna cut his time short because you…of your stupid party.
STEPHANIE: (Looks dumbfounded, yet upset, as she searches for a response) So…so what you’re saying is that…that you…chose him over me?
GRIFFIN: (His whole body tenses in frustration) This has nothing to do with choosing!
STEPHANIE: (Slyly) Well, if it’s not about choosing, then why don’t you go to the party with me and…
GRIFFIN: (Frowning) Because I don’t want to. I mean…a few months ago I would have thought it would be a lot of fun, but…look, I just don’t want to, alright.
STEPHANIE: (Gently walks toward Griffin pouting and batting her eyes.) Darling…I really don’t want to fight anymore. How about if we just…go to the party and...
GRIFFIN: (Shakes his head in disbelief, sounding frustrated) You aren’t doing that this time. You always give me those sad little eyes and I always give in. (Turning away) But not this time...
STEPHANIE: (Enraged, she crosses her arms in a deliberate gesture.) Fine! (She walks across the room and faces the window. After a few moments she turns around, still looking very upset.) Okay, fine…(Slowly and deliberately) You say this isn’t about choosing, but it is. I’m tired of standing in line with you, Griffin. It’s either him or me.
GRIFFIN: (Turns around, confused) You can’t be serious…
STEPHANIE: (Sternly, with a slight pout.) Make your choice. Him…or me.
GRIFFIN: C’mon, Stef…don’t be…
STEPHANIE: (Walking closer) I need to know how you feel about me, Griffin. I can’t live like this. Either it’s me or that…that little…boy. (Griffin looks at Stephanie for several moments. Finally he shakes his head and shrugs.)
GRIFFIN: So that’s how it’s gonna be? (Stephanie looks sternly at Griffin. He stares ahead, shaking his head, for several moments. He begins to speak, but stops himself and stares at Stephanie for a moment. Suddenly, his face relaxes and he speaks softly.) Him. (Stephanie’s looks shocked with disbelief.)
STEPHANIE: What?
GRIFFIN: (Slightly louder, but his tone is calm.) Him. If you’re gonna force me to choose then…I chose him. (Griffin peers at Stephanie as he walks out of the bedroom.) He may be a kid…but at least he doesn’t play these immature little games...
STEPHANIE: (Walking after Griffin) But…(Before she can speak Griffin turns around with a cold expression.)
GRIFFIN: And I want all your things out of here by the time I get back. (Griffin looks sternly at her for a moment before turning and heading toward the door.)
STEPHANIE: (Fumbling towards him.) But…where are you going? Darling…(Griffin doesn’t look back. He slams the door on his way out.)

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

CHARLIE'S HOUSE. CLAUDIA enters the kitchen and opens the refrigerator as the phone rings.

CLAUDIA: (Answering the phone) Hello?
YOUNG LADY: Uh, hi. Can I, um, please speak with Claudia Salinger?
CLAUDIA: This is Claudia.
YOUNG LADY: (Concerned) Claudia! I’m so glad you’re there. I really need to talk to you…you won’t believe…
CLAUDIA: (Confused) Who is this?
YOUNG LADY: Oh, I’m sorry. It’s Nora. Look, I know you’re busy, but you’ve got to get back here quick! You won’t believe what Tina and Val …
CLAUDIA: Calm down, I can’t understand a thing you’re saying.
NORA: (Takes a deep breath) Okay. Look, you know how Tina and Val have been wanting their rooms together, right?
CLAUDIA: Uh, huh…
NORA: And how Tina says she doesn’t like her corner window because she’s afraid of heights right?
CLAUDIA: Yeah…
NORA: Well, they’ve switched your room with Tina’s!
CLAUDIA: (Upset) What?
NORA: And that’s not the worst of it…they’re not being the least bit careful…they’re throwing your stuff all around and…I tried to stop them, but you know how they are…they wouldn’t listen to a word I said!
CLAUDIA: Don’t worry, I know exactly how they are! I…I just can’t believe they would even think about touching my stuff without asking me! (Claudia puts her hand on her forehead to calm herself.) Okay…listen, thanks a lot Nora. I appreciate this. I’m flying back tomorrow morning, so…
NORA: (Interrupting) Wait…why are you being so cool about this?
CLAUDIA: What? I am not cool about Tina swapping rooms…
NORA: No, no…I meant you and me. I mean, before you left, you seemed so pissed at me for bringing Curtis to your celebration. (Sighs) I know I really shouldn’t have…
CLAUDIA: No…its okay. If anything, I’m surprised you’re making a special call to give me the heads up. I mean, if anyone was pissed, it should have been you. There I was being so happy about getting first chair…but it really wasn’t very thoughtful of me. I know how badly you wanted it, too.
NORA: Claudia, I was never pissed…I’m sorry if it came off that way. After all, we are roommates. But hey…even if I was mad at you, I still would have told you about the room thing…it’s not right…what they’re doing.
CLAUDIA: Thanks, Nora. I’m lucky to have a friend like you. (A moment of silence passes) Well…I guess I’ll see you tomorrow night…and assess damages.
NORA: Okay…I’m real sorry I couldn’t do anything…
CLAUDIA: I know. Thanks Nora…bye.

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

CHARLIE'S HOUSE. GRIFFIN enters through the kitchen and walks past CLAUDIA talking on the telephone. JULIA and OWEN are in the living room, still horsing around. Owen is chasing Julia. They stop when they see Griffin enter the living room.

OWEN: I knew you’d be back! (Runs over and hugs Griffin.)
JULIA: (Confused) But…your party…
GRIFFIN: (Shrugs) Eh, don’t worry about it. (Messing Owen’s hair) I’ll have more fun with this little rug-rat anyway. (Griffin tags Owen, then runs and hides behind Julia, holding her by the arms so she can’t get away. Owen easily tags Julia and she chases both of them upstairs as the scene fades.)

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