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Time: 1988. During a crisis involving Cruz, Julia had caught Mason drinking when he was supposed to be helping. What Julia didn't know was that Mason was extremely troubled upon learning that the bones that were found in the Capwell boathouse were not those of Hal Clark, but of Mark McCormack, the husband of Mason's first true love, Mary. At the time of Mark's death, Mason was drinking heavily and was unsure of whether he was innocent. After Julia argues with Mason about his drinking, he must confront his problem. He does so here.
[For those wishing to read Julia's argument with Mason, which has some great writing...please go here. It is found on the The Gate/Trials of Julia site, a page with more Mason and Julia transcripts.]
Julia is sitting in a room on the floor while staring solemnly at the flames in the fireplace. Just then, a door slams and Julia turns. It's Mason, who comes in and sits on the floor next to Julia. He, too, looks at the flames. Breaking the silence, Mason asks about Cruz. "Any word?"
Responding, Julia only says, "Nothing."
Mason still doesn't look at Julia but speaks. "I...uh...went for a long walk down the beach. No place else to go, really...or to hide. I've been thinking about what you said to me. And I think that you've been right all along. That I am sick...and I do have a problem with alcohol. And I...I wanted you to know that as soon as we get through this, I'm going to try to get help." Julia nods.
Mason continues, and Julia faces him. "I...I realize that's it's been cutting me off not just from the things I've been trying to avoid, but from everything I care about...in my life." Julia looks sadly at Mason and he says, "So, I...uh...I have to find a way to beat it. But I don't think I can do it alone." Mason finally turns to look at Julia. She looks back at Mason and assures him, "I'm here."
Mason, however, is quick to warn Julia about what is to come. "Are you sure? Because I don't think it's going to get any easier."
Julia is resolute. "I'm sure. I'll be there with you. Every step of the way." Julia strokes the back of Mason's head. Mason then lays his head in Julia's lap and stares at the fire, and as Julia strokes his hair, she also once more stares intently into the flames.
