Day 5 Assignments

[Don Thompson]

INT. CANNABIS SHOP – DAY

ROBERT (25), the owner of a Cannabis shop, stands behind the sales counter of his small establishment and counts out some bills.

He hears the ENTRY BELL RING indicating someone has entered the shop.

TRENT (30) enters the shop and walks briskly to the counter. As Robert notices Trent, he closes the cash register and presses a small button under the counter.

INSERT: A lock CLICKS on the front door, locking it.

Trent is now at the counter.

TRENT: Dude!

Trent and Robert high-five each other.

TRENT: How’re sales?

ROBERT: Couldn’t be better. The cookies and gummies are selling like hotcakes!

TRENT: Maybe you should sell cannabis hotcakes! I HOP pot!

Robert LAUGHS. Trent turns serious.

TRENT: I mean, we do have to get our sales numbers up, my friend.

ROBERT: Yeah, if I could. I’m not the greatest salesperson in the world. You know that.

TRENT: Yeah, well I need you to sell, dude. And to sell like there is no tomorrow. To sell like your ass is on fire. To sell like you’re gonna get offed by someone I might know if you don’t get those sales figures higher.

Beat – Trent gives Robert a serious look, then backs off, smiling.

TRENT: Hey, dude! Got some cookies?

ROBERT: I don’t consume during business hours.

TRENT: I do – because I want to celebrate!

ROBERT: Celebrate what?

TRENT: Your success!

ROBERT: You’re always telling me I’m a fuck up and now you’re telling me I’m a success.

TRENT: I just try to keep you motivated. Give me the best cookie you got. I need some NOW.

Robert walks over to a line of Cannabis Cookie dispensers and eyes them over. He grabs one and hands it to Trent.

Trent takes a bite.

ROBERT: Green Baker.

Trent nibbles.

TRENT: So here’s the plan. I want you to jack up the prices by 10 percent. I want you to stay open until midnight every day, and I want you to do some advertising.

ROBERT: I assume you’re gonna pitch in for the ads.

TRENT: If you need it.

Beat.

ROBERT: How about ‘if you have it’?

TRENT: I have it. Don’t trust me? I did hear you might be talking to another backer.

ROBERT: Where’d you hear that?

TRENT: A little birdie.

ROBERT: Well the little birdie is wrong.

TRENT: This particular little birdie has a big mouth and would like to keep your other business partner informed.

Beat.

TRENT: Let me tell you something, Budaroo. You try to deal me out and you’re never gonna do business in this town again. You will have such a bad rep that not even my mother – who hates my guts and loves to find any way she can to hurt my feelings – not even she would do business with you.

ROBERT: That’s too bad – I always thought your mom was kinda cute.

Trent smiles, walks over to the dispensary, and lifts the lid to take another Green Baker cookie. Robert stops him.

ROBERT: Hold on! Hold on! I got a better one for you!

TRENT: A better one? Oh, I need that.

ROBERT: Top notch. Colombian. The ‘Green Grocer’. Come on, I just got the shipment in.

He nods to him to follow him to the back room where he accepts shipments.

Robert leans down and opens a bag that is propped against the wall.

ROBERT: Now lean down and take a whiff of that stuff. That is pure heaven.

Trent leans down and takes a whiff.

TRENT: Man, that is good!

Just then Robert, who has armed himself with a 2×4 board, BELTS Trent in the back and knocks him flat.

ROBERT: That one’s for your mom you lyin’ sack of shit! You don’t have the money – and everyone knows it! And if they don’t, I let them know it!

Trent CRIES OUT.

ROBERT: I DO have a new backer, BUDAROO! One you don’t know, and he isn’t the pain in the ass you are and doesn’t make out to be rich when he’s really in debt up to his kahunas!

Robert WHACKS Trent again.

ROBERT: That one is for MY mom! Leech!

WHACKS him again.

ROBERT: Leeching off labor, as usual!! Neoliberal, fascist, capitalist wannabe leech!

Trent MOANS and tries to escape – but Robert whacks him one more time, knocking him out cold.

Robert looks him over.

ROBERT: Dude, the revolution is here. Robert is taking over.

[Douglas Ryan]

INT. BARRACKS R&R ROOM – AFTERNOON – FEBRUARY 28TH 1991

The Rest and Relaxation room is vast. It has a section for watching television with many arm chairs, there are many other games and fun things to pass the time.

However no one is using the amenities. All marines are glued to the TV watching C-Span waiting for an address from the president BUSH.

Front and center is CPL ROBERT RUST, and next to him his CPL TRENT MARCUS. Trent is passing out beers to everyone from a cooler at his feet.

TRENT

Compliments from me and sergeant Jones, who couldn’t be here himself.

The marines cheers Trent and sergeant Jones.

ROBERT

(To Trent) I thought the sarge said no beer.

Trent takes a swig and shrugs.

TRENT

Well what the fat fuck don’t know won’t hurt him, plus think of all the points he’ll get with these numb-nuts.

Trent looks at Robert’s uniform. He passes Robert his beer.

TRENT

Take this for a second.

He starts fixing Robert’s collar and pressing down the arms, checking for any abnormalities.

TRENT

Seriously I don’t know how you made it out of Basic.

He takes his beer and takes a step back showing Robert his uniform.

TRENT

See Rob. Immaculate! You look like dog shit on good days. I mean just look at your hair.

Robert runs his free hand through his non regulation hair.

ROBERT

Yeah. It is luxurious. I’m gonna keep it.

Trent narrows his eyes at Robert..

TRENT

That ain’t gonna fly with the sarge.

ROBERT

Too bad he already said I could keep it until we get back to Stumps.

Surprised Trent does a spit take, getting beer on his uniform.

TRENT

God dammit! I don’t believe you! You got beer on my uniform.

Robert looks on unflinching.

ROBERT

I remember my first beer too. Relax your throat and let the cool liquid slide down. Just like when you..

TRENT

Alright thats enough of that shit.

It’s getting louder as the all conversations are turning into back slapping and boisterous laughter. Trent looks at the TV the president has come on.

Trent addresses the crowd.

TRENT

HEY! Quiet down you devil dogs!

The crowd howls and woofs. It annoys Trent.

TRENT

Shut the fuck up!

They shush and quiet down and listen to the TV. The president’s voice is heard. Every marine stands silent beer in hand almost at attention.

BUSH (V.O.)

Kuwait is liberated. Iraq’s army is defeated.

They all shout and spray beer everywhere. It looks like the locker room of a team that just won the World Series. Hugs are met with fives and special handshakes.

Trent looks around elated, PFC Bodie knocks into him spilling beer on his boots. He grabs the PFC.

TRENT

What the hell Boot! You better go get something to wipe that up with.

He shoves Bodie in the direction of a little kitchenette that has a sink, coffee makers and some snacks.

ROBERT

What was that for? He’s just a kid.

TRENT

Well he better learn that I’m top dog and he’ll do what I say.

ROBERT

Why because of who your daddy is?

Trent looks at him sideways and shakes his head.

TRENT

Well if you’re so keen on having him be part of the platoon you take him under your wing pretty boy.

Trent messes up Roberts hair. This pisses him off.

ROBERT

Eat a dick.

Robert makes his way to Bodie in the kitchenette. Bodie is frantically looking for paper towels.

ROBERT

Hey kid. Paper towels are up there.

Robert points to a cupboard above Bodie’s head.

PFC BODIE

Thank’s Rob.

Bodie grabs the towels but before he takes off Robert puts his hand on Bodie’s chest stopping him from taking off.

ROBERT

Look Bodie, how would you like to get back at that prick.

PFC BODIE

Aren’t you guys like super buds.

ROBERT

Yeah but he’s been waining on me this whole war. You know he had the best shit spots in the field and would never let us know where. I was almost scorpion food a few times.

Bodie looks on in awe, he has never seen Rob be so open about Trent before.

PFC BODIE

Wow. So how..

ROBERT

Never mind. It’s not important, just get him those towels and ask him to spot you some cash.

Bodie nods and heads over to Trent. Robert watches the scene play out. He can’t hear the words but smiles at the body language.

Trent throws his hands up annoyed. Bodie cleans the boot, and pops up. He nervously and awkwardly asks something. Trent blows up causing a scene, then looks at the smiling Robert.

Trent mouths the words “you’re fucking dead.” Trent pulls Bodie in close says something and pulls out a wad of cash. He hands bodie a $50 bill.

Bodie nods excitedly and takes the cash before bolting out of the room. Trent and Robert smile sinisterly at one another.

INT. BARRACKS R&R ROOM – LATER

Robert reclines in a chair passed out. Trent opens the cooler all the beers are gone. He looks at Robert and then at his watch. There are only two other Marines in there.

TRENT

Where is that little shit.

Rushing into the room with hair clippers is PFC Bodie. He hands them to Trent, who inspects them.

PFC BODIE

Did I do good?

TRENT

Excellent. Go plug em in.

Bodie plugs in the clippers and goes to hand them to Trent.

TRENT

Hell no. Why do you think I gave you the fifty bucks. You do it.

Bodie sighs, Trent nods at the other two Marines. They stand, one heads to the doorway and keeps watch, the other holds down Robert.

ROBERT

(grogy) What’s going on?

The clippers come on and Bodie starts shaving Roberts head. Robert struggles yelling. Bodie Stops and cries. They all look at him. Trent stands up.

TRENT

Well if you’re gonna be a baby about it.

He takes the clippers and kicks Bodie away.

ROBERT

Fuck you!

TRENT

Say bye to them pretty locks punk.

Trent keeps shaving as Robert struggles.

TRENT

Hey! If you keep it up it won’t be even dumb ass!

Robert spits in Trent’s face. Trent continues until the job is done. He turns off the clippers and hands them to Bodie.

TRENT

Take them back to where you got em. (to the other) you can let him up.

He lets go of Robert and put his hands in the air.

MARINE 1

Look man he paid me sixty bucks.

ROBERT

Fuck you too.

The marine walks to his buddy at the door.

MARINE 1

Lets bounce man.

They leave but Bodie stays.

ROBERT

You’re so fucking dead.

Trent laughs, and spits on Robert.

TRENT

Fuck you, you walk around here all the time acting like you shy but I know what you said Bodie. I know you told him something. So I took your locks. HA!

Rage boils up inside Robert, he jumps up so fast that Trent has no time to react. The first swing connects with Trent’s temple and the second connects with his jaw.

Trent crumples to the floor unable to protect his stomach from the four kicks Robert lays into his ribs. Robert stops realizing what he has done.

ROBERT

Shit!

Robert looks at Bodie and scowls. He’s thinking of a way out of this and smiles at Bodie slyly.

ROBERT

PFC Bodie, let me tell you what happened here, and you just might make rank after this.

[Carol Paur]

EXT. AFRICAN RIVER – DAY

ROBERT, a beaver, swims up to TRENT, a male hippo, who is sleeping.

ROBERT

Hey. Happy Birthday, big guy!

TRENT

Thanks.

ROBERT

What are you going to do to celebrate?

TRENT

I was celebrating until I was interrupted.

ROBERT

Ooh, is Trent getting all angry-boy on me?

Trent closes his eye and goes back to sleep. Beaver swims up and down and around Robert, who plunges deeper into the river.

Robert swims down and faces Trent and stares. Trent paddles to the surface, blinks his eyes. Robert follows, treading water.

ROBERT

How you get this place all to yourself?

Trent turns, poops, and uses his tail to spread it in the air and water. Robert cringes and ducks to avoid it.

TRENT

Marking my territory. I guess it didn’t work.

ROBERT

Hey man, you told me you wanted to discuss our little proposal.

TRENT

I sleep during the day.

ROBERT

Well, I do my best work at night.

Trent blows some water and snorts. His eyes flare open.

TRENT

Tell me, how did a beaver from Wisconsin end up here, in Africa?

ROBERT

Didn’t you read my brochures? I go all over the world to build up properties.

TRENT

Oh, I forgot. Carrots hired you.

Robert grins.

ROBERT

(in love)

Carrots. Hmm hmn.

TRENT

You’re not her type.

ROBERT

I will be after I build her 50K square foot home. She’ll ask me to marry her.

TRENT

She’s too busy making smoothies and exercising on her YouTube channel to notice you.

Robert backs up a bit.

ROBERT

Trent, let’s talk about the little deal I proposed. Are you ready to sell?

Trent opens up his massive jaws, bellows, and scoops up Robert and throws him up into the air. Robert slaps the shoreline, unconscious.

TRENT

Give that piece of information to Carrots.

Trent slinks beneath the water.

[Rebecca Sukle]

INT. ROADHOUSE BAR – DAY

Trent waits at the bar in a pine barrens roadhouse along the the Black Horse Pile, the main route between Philadelphia and Atlantic City in 1948. Trent is immaculately dressed, expensive pants, shirt, and shoes. Two locals sit at the other end of the bar, otherwise the place looks empty. The bartender, a body builder, moves in close to Trent and the two converse, inaudible whispers. Robert enters and Trent hails him to a table. They shake hands but Trent looks stern and Robert worried

Trent

Have a seat.

The two men sit opposite.

Robert

What did you want to see me about and why here?

Trent forces a smile.

Trent

A progress report. I picked here because it’s midway, remote, and they keep expensive top shelf in the back room for special customers.

Robert relaxes.

Robert

That would be you.

Trent hails the bartender, Jack.

Trent

A drink for Robert here. Put it on my tab.

Jack saunters over.

Jack

What can I get you?

Robert

I’d like something more than beer. What you got?

Jack makes a grand gesture towards the shelf behind the bar, acts the smart ass with a half bow and mocking voice.

Jack

What would you desire?

Robert

Single malt on the rocks.

Jack

Top shelf or house?

Robert, a sheepish smile, looks towards Trent.

Robert

With Trent buying, top shelf.

Jack goes to get the drink. Trent stares at Robert and represses his anger. Show time.

Trent

The report? Anything to celebrate?

Jack places the scotch in front of Robert and a glass of soda water mixed with ginger ale in front of Trent. Robert glances toward the locals and talks in code.

Robert

Depends on how you look at it. The competition, knocked out of the game. That gives our investment a clear field to be first to market.

With no action at the bar, Jack wipes down tables. The two patrons at the bar take their beer outside.

Trent

I read that Joe Bilbo had been outed as Red. Wasn’t he a bouncer at the Clicquot Club until he lost his job?

Robert ponders his answer.

Robert

I don’t really know. I’ve only been to the club a couple of times. Never met him.

Trent sips his drink and leans back on his chair.

Trent

Yes, you did. I introduced you.

Robert shrugs.

Robert

I’ve never been good with names.

Trent

Unlike Bilbo. He never forgot a face or a name, especially those he added to his book of embarrassing situations. He never hesitated to use his influence.

Trent winks at Robert and smiles.

Robert

Thinking on it, yes I remember him.

Trent

Who ever turned him in, genius. The chain of events leading to the take down of our competition. What a stroke of luck.

Trent smiles and chuckles. Robert grows bolder.

Robert

Not luck, more like meticulous planning with no trail.

Trent

I agree, brilliant plot. Competition gone and we get to step in and caulk it up to blind luck. Too bad I didn’t think of it. Whoever did, kudos to them.

Robert smiles, proud of his work. Trent chuckles.

Robert

Thank you for the complement. You asked me to do a job and I got it done with no link to either of us.

Trent feigns surprise.

Trent

You? No, not you. You’re not that cunning. But if so, I predict a great future in the business.

Robert sits up straighter, more confident, sly smile.

Robert

There’s a lot about me that you don’t know.

He downs his drink and signals for another.

Trent

Jack, forget the cheap stuff. Break out the special scotch from the back room. Robert and me need to celebrate a victory.

Jack slips into the door behind the bar and returns with a pre-war bottle. He places it on the table his hand on the neck.

Jack

Want me to pour.

Trent puts his hand over Jack’s.

Trent

No need, leave the bottle.

Trent pours and he and Robert down a few glasses.

Robert

What about the reward you promised?

Trent

First tell me how you pulled it off, details.

Robert emboldened by alcohol itches to brag about his expertise.

ROBERT

You know Frank, the guy from Trieste who owns the grocery near the docks in Philly?

Trent

I know him well.

Robert

I put the bug in his ear about a mutual friend of Bilbo being a card carrying Red. Antonio Sabitini was in the store at the time and overheard the conversation.

Trent drums his manicured finger nails against the table.

Trent

Interesting, but if the friend is the one I’m thinking of, why not just out him as a homosexual?

Jack finishes wiping the table next to them.

Robert

Why, fingering him as a communist worked better.

Trent signals Jack to retrieve the bottle. Jack does and returns it to the back room. The two locals return to the bar for a refill of beer.

Trent

Not sure where all this will lead. You’ve earned a big reward for you brilliant work.

Trent gets up from the table. Robert smiles with expectation. The day turned out for him after all.

Trent

Lots more good things in the back room in addition to scotch. You ready, follow me.

Robert follows Trent to behind the bar. Trent opens the door and guides him in front. Robert freezes.

Trent

Come Robert, your reward awaits inside.

Robert

I changed my mind. I think I’ll leave.

Jack and the two patrons block the way. Through the open door sits second in command to Joe Ida, mafia boss in Philly and South Jersey, and two body guards. Trent addresses the men.

Trent

Robert didn’t realize that the trail might sic the Feds onto Nan DeMar and her connection to Ida. You don’t need to kill him for being a dumb shit. Just rough him up for now. I’d love to have the first punch but don’t want to mess up my manicure.

Robert screams as Trent pushes him into the room and shuts the door.

[Janeen Johnson]

INT. BAR IN STRIP CLUB – NIGHT

ROBERT nurses a drink at the bar as LUCY swaggers away from him, looking over her shoulder with an invitation.

TRENT sidles up.

TRENT

Can I join you?

ROBERT
Sure, she doesn’t want to.

TRENT
I thought you guys had great rapport.

She’s new, right?

ROBERT
I don’t know. My first time here.

TRENT
Did you proposition her?

ROBERT
No, just wanted to go to one of the

private rooms.

TRENT
That might be fun. Let me try. My

wife used to work in a place like this. Money talks here. What’s her name?

ROBERT

Lucy.
Trent thrusts out his hand.

TRENT
I’m Trent, by the way.

They shake.

ROBERT

Robert.

Trent pulls a wad of bills out of his pocket and holds it in front of him.

TRENT

Lucy — a word!

Lucy struts over to him, a question in her eye. Trent peels off a few bills and hands them to her.

TRENT (CONT’D)

Private room?

Lucy nods.
Trent peels off a few more bills.

TRENT (CONT’D)

Can he come too?

Lucy tucks the bills in her bosom.

LUCY Sure. Right this way.

TRENT
We want your best room.

Lucy looks over her shoulder at Trent as she walks to the back of the bar where private rooms line the hallway.

LUCY So I assumed.

When she gets to the room, a bouncer unlocks it for her and she nods to him.

LUCY (CONT’D) (Seductively)

You like it rough?
Trent grins and nods, nudging Robert.

LUCY (CONT’D) (Mockingly)

You want to pick a safe word?

TRENT
We won’t need one, but you might.

Lucy laughs and holds the door as the men enter the nicely appointed room with rich leather couches and low round tables with smooth edges.

ROBERT
I’ll get some champagne.

Robert steps out the door. Lucy holds the door open as several girls walk in, in various stages of undress, holding a variety of stage props and S&M devices. When the girls have filed
in, Lucy steps out and the door softly closes.

Trent grins lasciviously at them and they smile back. Then the girls start wailing on Trent with their various props and devices.

TRENT
Stop! What the hell! Stop!

GIRL 1

Safe word?

GIRL 2
Oh, he didn’t want one. He wants

the full treatment. Let’s go, girls!

The girls continue to beat Trent, backing up when the girl with the whip wants to take a lash. She whips him around the midsection and he rushes toward the room door, but is thrown back by the gang of girls.

Seeing no way to get through, he struggles to protect his face and midsection by turning away. They give the girl with the whip free play, then other girls hit him with a baton, a play pistol and a variety of their other strip act props.

When they tire of beating him on the back, legs and upper arms, they pull him from the corner and he crumples to the floor, cowering and trying to protect his head with his hands. He drops to his knees and then bends over as the beating continues.

Several girls push him from one side to turn him over and they beat some more.

GIRL 2 (CONT’D)

Enough?

GIRL 1 For now.

They open the door and strut out with their instruments of torture.

GIRL 2
Full treatment, but no safe word.

These guys are f-ing nuts!

Robert stands next to Lucy in the doorway looking at the beaten and bleeding Trent lying on the floor in the lux room moaning and holding his crotch.

ROBERT
I think you have a warrant for this

guy, don’t you?

LUCY Sure do.

Robert steps into the room and holds a gun on Trent while Lucy flips him over, cuffs him, and reads him his rights.

LUCY (CONT’D)

You have the right to remain silent.

Anything you say can be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided for you. Do you understand the rights I have just read to you? With these rights in mind, do you wish to speak to me?

TRENT (whiny)

I didn’t do anything. Ask the girls. I’m innocent. Buddy, help me out. You know I didn’t do anything.

Robert smiles innocently at Trent.

ROBERT I’m in Vice.

He turns to Lucy.

ROBERT (CONT’D) I have nothing on this guy.

LUCY
Well, I’m an SVU officer and I have

video, audio, witness testimony, and physical evidence of Trent threatening to beat his kid if his wife doesn’t bring home more money than she did last week from the gentleman’s club she works in.

Trent pleads with Robert.

TRENT
I would never actually do that.

Lucy jerks him to his feet.

LUCY
You’ve already done it. The hospital

has the pictures and medical reports. He looked even worse than you do now. That’s how we got the warrant to put a wire on your wife and install cams in your house. This afternoon, we caught you threatening your child’s life, extortion, menacing and a host of other crimes on tape.

Trent goes from pleading to fury in a heartbeat.

TRENT
I’ll get you for this, Robert. I’ll

get you.

LUCY (gleefully)

More threats. He’s digging himself in deeper all the time.

Lucy hauls Trent down the hall to a waiting squad car.

Robert steps to the dressing room door.

ROBERT

You gals did her proud. Nothing illegal, but you gave him a taste of his own medicine.

GIRL 1

Tell Rachel we’ll do it again if he ever so much as breaks one of her nails.

GIRL 2

We dancers got to stick together.

[Juliet Wochholz]

EXT. A CHURCH – DAY

A sunny spring day. An organ plays a joyful baroque piece.

INT. CHURCH

Decorated with bright orchids for a wedding. Happy Guests take their seats.

INT. THE GROOM’S ROOM – DAY

ROBERT, expensive black tuxedo, paces nervously, he clenches his bow tie in his hand.

TRENT

Let me help.

Robert stops in front of Trent, hands him the bow tie.

Trent works on tying it properly.

ROBERT

How’d I get so lucky? She’s gorgeous —

TRENT

(working on the tie)

Smart.

ROBERT

She’s rich —

TRENT

Funny.

ROBERT

Sexy as hell. And she wants me!

TRENT

Perfect.

Robert turns to check himself out in the chagall mirror. In the mirror image he sees Trent check his cell phone before slipping it back into his pocket.

TRENT

I’ll go check on the bride. Be right back.

Trent leaves.

Robert takes a cigarette out of his platinum cigarette holder. He lights up, moves to the window and opens it a crack to let the smoke out.

Robert watches as –

OUTSIDE

a limousine pulls up outside and sees Trent run to open the door. Instead of the bride, CHELSEA, a platinum blonde woman in a sexy green dress, gets out.

ROBERT

(beneath his breath)

Fuck.

Robert flicks his cigarette out the window, watches as Trent ushers the Blonde around the side of the church, away from incoming guests.

Robert pulls out his cell. Speed calls Trent.

INT. CHURCH OFFICE – DAY

Trent leads Chelsea into the empty office just as his cell phone chirps.

Trent checks the phone — sees it’s Robert calling. Trent puts his finger to his mouth to shush Chelsea, answers the phone.

TRENT

You freaking out again?

ROBERT

(over phone)

Listen, I was so nervous earlier, I forgot something.

TRENT

What’s that?

ROBERT

(over phone)

No, it has to be in person, I got something

(beat)

To give you. You know, being my best man and all.

Trent looks right at Chelsea, grins like a fox.

TRENT

(mouthing silently to Chelsea)

He has no idea.

(into phone)

Be right there.

INT. GROOM’S ROOM

Robert sits his phone down on the fireplace mantle. He removes his suit jacket and places it over a chair.

Robert then unties the bow tie, slips it off and puts it on the mantle. Looking at the crucifix above the mantle, Robert reaches up and pulls it off the wall.

He walks over to the closed door, stands beside it,

The door opens, Robert moving a few inches back into the shadow, to stay hidden, as Trent enters the room.

TRENT

You know you didn’t have to get me anything —

Robert slams the door with a loud bang, startling Trent to turn around just in time to see Robert swing the crucifix at his head.

ROBERT

Oh yeah I did!

Trent’s hand shoots up just as the crucifix smashes the side of Trent’s head — blood starts to pour down.

Trent drops to his knees, moves his hand to the front of his face, covered in blood.

The crucifix slams against Trent’s torso, he falls over.

Robert drops the crucifix and starts kicking Trent, over and over again.

ROBERT

You son of a bitch! I knew I couldn’t trust you!

Trent’s bloody, and crying.

TRENT

Please, please –

ROBERT

Trying to sabotage my wedding?!

You want her for yourself! Admit it!

(another kick)

Our whole lives! Always trying to undermine my position.

(a kick)

To take what’s rightfully mine!

(another kick)

TRENT

No, No! I love you. Everybody loves you!

Robert stops, Looks down at Trent – a bloody sniveling cry-baby.

ROBERT

Get up. You’re a mess.

Robert holds out his hand, Trent takes hold and Robert pulls him to his feet.

ROBERT

Dad was right about you.

TRENT

You’re my big brother, I love you, please. You know that.

ROBERT

You look like shit, Go clean up.

Trent heads for the sink.

ROBERT

And get that whore out of here.

[James Bodley]

Four Ashton Tate employees stand near the watercooler. When they spot ROBERT coming their conversation tails off.

Robert strides to the watercooler and half fills a plastic cup. He looks around sipping, nodding to himself. Then invites himself and goes over to the group.

A couple of employees give him a nod, others do not.

Area Manager, TRENT, comes out of his office and goes straight to the cooler, nodding vaguely at those standing around, fills a cup and takes it back inside his office and closes the door.

ROBERT

Huh, probably needs it to cool his ardor.

CAROL

Whadya mean?

ROBERT

Nothing really.. ..just I saw him in the photocopy room yesterday, had Trixie backed into a corner. Looked to me like he was making a move.

MIKE

How do you know that? They might have just been talkin’.

CAROL

Something of a Romeo, you reckon?

ROBERT

Oh you know… Some people never know when to stop.

(beat)

Met his wife last year at the Christmas party. Nice woman…

SUSIE

(sighs)

Well, catch you all later, I’d better get back.

DOROTHY

Yeah, me too. Back to the grindstone.

MIKE

No peace for the wicked, huh?

The group gone, Robert stands alone at the watercooler and pours away the water he didn’t want. He bins his plastic cup.

CUT TO:

In his office Trent talks on the phone.

TRENT

Okay, Carol, nice one. I owe you for that.

CAROL (V.O.)

Everybody avoids him, he’s always trying to stir it up. Probably got his eye on Trixie himself.

TRENT

Okay, well.. I suppose I’ll just have to find a way of sorting him out.

LATER

Trent stands on the mezzanine, balancing a half empty watercooler refill on the railing. Below him Robert saunters past with photocopies. Trent’s eyes narrow as he calculates.

With Robert’s back to him, Trent lets fall the half empty polystyrene container. It plummets like a rock and explodes on the tiles below, CRACK !

Water flies everywhere…

CU ROBERT

He cringes, drenched in ice water, half paralyzed. Trembling he looks up to see where the shattered container came from.

TRENT

(cheerily)

Oh, sorry about that. Just changing the water bottle. Still, you who’s so jealous of other people’s ardor. That’ll help cool yours!

[Elle de Champagne]

BACK ROOM – EVENING

Trent leads Robert into the room. They both hold champagne flutes.

TRENT

I wanted to have our special celebration privately.

Trent holds up his glass.

ROBERT

To taking down that son-of-a bitch!

They cheer! Robert grabs Trent in a celebratory bear hug.

ROBERT

We did it brother!

Trent is much more reserved.

TRENT

No. You did it.

ROBERT

Nah.

TRENT

Oh yes. In fact I wanted to ask you about what you said to old Frank.

Robert laughs nervously.

ROBERT

What do you mean?

TRENT

Don’t you find it strange that the hostile takeover happened so quickly and without a hitch.

Robert pats Trent on the back.

ROBERT

No. We planned is that way, brother.

TRENT

No.

Robert starts sweating. He guzzles down the remainder of his Champagne.

ROBERT

Who cares what, who, how or whatever. What matters is we did it. Let’s get more Champagne.

Robert heads towards the door.

TRENT

The one thing about money, brother, is that it buys loyalty.

Robert stops dead in his tracks, fear in his eyes. He turns around with a huge smile on his face and joyously retorts –

ROBERT

Tell me about it. How do you think I got everyone on board about this?

TRENT

Maybe by spreading rumors about our mother’s demise and how I had something to do with it.

Robert pulls out a gun.

ROBERT

(nervous laughing)

I don’t know what you’re getting at.

TRENT

Is that the gun I gave you?

ROBERT

Yeah, she’s a beaut. Thank you!

TRENT

You don’t think I came in here alone did you?

ROBERT

Awe, I love you brother, but I knew you couldn’t be trusted. You’re so predictable.

TRENT

I am? Did you check if it was loaded?

ROBERT

Of course I did.

TRENT

Did you check if the bullets were real?

Robert lets off a wholehearted laugh.

ROBERT

You know that the chief told me to watch my back with you, right?

TRENT

He told me the same when I paid him the million dollars… Now I know why mom favored you.

Trent lunges for Robert. Robert pulls the trigger. It’s a blank. Trent grabs the gun and beats Robert with it.

Robert holds his arms up to protect himself.

ROBERT

Mom favored you. She always went on “you should be more like Trent, you should be more like Trent”.

In the moment it takes Trent to smile, Robert grabs the gun and shoots. This time the bullet is real and it wounds Trent in the arm.

ROBERT

Yup, dear old brother, I did check if it was loaded and I did check if the bullets were real. I left the first one blank because I didn’t know what your plan was.

TRENT

I need you.

Robert laughs whole-heartedly in total disbelief.

ROBERT

You have the whole town on payroll. You don’t need no –

Before Robert notices, Trent pulls out a knife and stabs Robert in the foot. Robert screams in pain and inadvertently drops the gun. It goes off, which jars them for a moment.

They both dive for it. They struggle to get control of it.

ROBERT

Mom was so disappointed with you.

TRENT

Just like she was with you.

The gun goes off. The bullet goes straight through Robert’s chest, ricochets off a metal figurine and pierces Trent right between the eyes.

Both dead.

[Vaughn Roste]

INT. A BAR – NIGHT

The MUSIC PUMPS and lights swirl. It’s hard to have a conversation with the noise, so patrons yell at each other.

TRENT, 40s, sits alone at the bar, flipping through his phone. Its screen provides 50% of the light in the room.

SAM, 20s, a shirtless bartender, notices Trent’s empty drink.

SAM

Another beer, Sir?

Trent, startled, looks up and eyes the bartender.

TRENT

It’s not a beer I’m looking for…

SAM

Something I can help you with?

TRENT

Ever seen this boy before?

Trent shows SAM a pic on his phone.

SAM

I don’t know his name, but I know his face. He’s been in before.

TRENT

Seen him tonight?

SAM

Haven’t seen him for awhile now.

Sam moves off to help another customer. Trent surveys the dark room – men dressed mostly in leather stand alone or in couples.

ROBERT, 20s, enters below the EXIT sign. His face lights up immediately when he sees Trent. He sidles up and takes the empty seat next to him.

ROBERT

You must be Trent.

TRENT

You’re late.

ROBERT

I’m sorry, Sir. There was a traffic accident on the freeway and then parking – had to walk like–

TRENT

No matter, you’re here now. What’re you drinking?

ROBERT

What do you want me to drink?

TRENT

Bartender! Two Scotch on the rocks.

Sam looks up from the far end of the bar.

SAM

Right away.

Trent turns his eyes back to Robert.

TRENT

(to Sam)

Make them both doubles.

Robert shoots up his eyebrows but doesn’t say anything.

TRENT

The bartender says you’ve been in here before.

ROBERT

I have. Not entirely new to the scene, but, you know – haven’t found what I’m looking for.

TRENT

That begs the question what you are looking for…

ROBERT

Not sure I know that yet.

TRENT

Ah, well. Not sure I’ve found what I’m looking for yet either.

ROBERT

Does that beg the same question?

TRENT

Figure I’ll know when I see it.

ROBERT

What if it’s sitting right in front of you?

TRENT

Didn’t say I’ll know it immediately when I see it.

Sam arrives their drinks.

SAM

Two doubles, on the rocks.

Trent holds out two twenties. Sam, confused, takes both.

TRENT

Keep the change.

SAM

Thanks! Enjoy your evening!

TRENT

Oh, I intend to.

Sam walks away to ring up the drinks. Trent turns to Robert. They each sip.

TRENT

So you sure you want this?

ROBERT

Yes – Sir. I’ve been looking forward to this all week.

TRENT

Good. But I need to first make sure you’re worth my time.

ROBERT

What can I do to prove myself?

TRENT

Impress me.

Trent DOWNS his drink and gestures to Robert’s.

TRENT

Finish your drink.

ROBERT

Already?

TRENT

Right now. Time to go.

ROBERT

(sipping)

Where are we going?

TRENT

Trust me.

Another gulp, and Robert’s drink is done. The glass is replaced on the bar. They both stand. Trent places a firm hand on Robert’s neck, and leads him into the dark back room.

INT. A BAR – THE BACKROOM – NIGHT

The light is even dimmer back here – but Trent knows his way around. He leads Robert directly to a ST. ANDREW’S CROSS.

Robert looks Trent in the eye but doesn’t say anything. Trent RIPS off Robert’s shirt. Robert doesn’t protest.

TRENT

Hands.

Robert supplies them – and straps each hand into the built-in restraints on the St. Andrew’s cross.

TRENT

Last chance, boy. You want this?

Robert nods. Trent growls.

TRENT

I want to hear you. Aloud!

ROBERT

Yes, Sir.

TRENT

Good.

Trent removes the flogger from his belt. Its lashes caress Robert’s bare back. Robert contorts in a mixture of surprise, pain – and pleasure.

TRENT

You want more?

ROBERT

Yes Sir. Harder, please, Sir.

TRENT

Good boy. I like what I see. So far.

The flogging continues. Robert winces – and smiles.

FADE OUT.

[Joseph Rondina]

Body Dysmorphic Syndrome, now that

was a tough one to beat.

PSYCHIATRIST

It’s really a part of the overall

problem spectrum. But you’ll see

yourself in an entirely different

light, along with recognizing your

potential contributions.

ROBERT

This is why you’re the best.

Scholarly without rival, and still

able to communicate so succinctly

in a few words.

PSYCHIATRIST

Then it should be readily clear:

That I feel we’re finished here,

and I’m terminating our Doctor-

Patient relationship.

ROBERT

Was it the group session request?

Maybe that was out of line, but I’m

always better when I can work a

room.

PSYCHIATRIST

No, you’re ready. But promise me

you’ll never again sabotage a

fellow employee with those phone

calls.

ROBERT

You mean the thing about my boss

Trent? He’s a scoundrel. And some

of those clients would have an

amazing impact on our company’s

future. They simply needed another

contact at the firm to get them on

board. Not this rogue. But being

fully committed to the success of

Beckman-Brown, I’ll try.

PSYCHIATRIST

I’m encouraged, then.

ROBERT

And I’ll not let this parting deter

me from recommending you to anyone

in need of your services.

(MORE)

I’m grateful for what I’ve

accomplished here, and I know there

is more I’m capable of.

INT. CAR – SAME

Robert buckles up as he awaits a cell contact to answer.

ROBERT

Yes, hello. I’m not sure how to go

about this, but I feel it’s my duty

to notify the board of some

unscrupulous behavior on the part

of one of you certified physicians.

INT. OFFICE ANTEROOM – DAY

Robert arrives for work, chats with receptionist

RECEPTIONIST

We are lucky to work for the

greatest boss ever. He paid for my

medical bill balance AND money

toward that family vacation I

thought we’d have to re-schedule.

ROBERT

No surprise there. He’s always been

afraid you’ll find a reason to

leave. Doubt he’d ever help me out.

RECEPTIONIST

Because he’s testing you. For the

future. See if you can make it on

your own. I overheard him.

ROBERT

That why I have a laundry list of

duties, everyday in my inbox?

RECEPTIONIST

He leaves nothing to chance.

Everything has a purpose.

ROBERT

Soooo, then he does use the martial

arts training to beat his clients

into submission?

ROBERT (CONT’D)

2.

RECEPTIONIST

Not if he wants to remain on the

Governor’s board for the prevention

of head trauma in children’s

sports. And, by the way, he has a

meeting at the capital in 1 hour,

so don’t dawdle.

ROBERT

You charge for your counseling?

RECEPTIONIST

Maybe you could benefit. I’m not

saying you need-

ROBERT

A psychiatrist? Me? I’m as sound as

they come. Never would even

consider that waste of time.

INT. TRENT’S OFFICE – CONTINUOUS

Robert enters finds Trent in coveralls. Room is in the midst

of an incomplete paint makeover.

ROBERT

Burnt Sienna?

TRENT

You said I was a down to earth guy.

ROBERT

I won’t keep you, hey nice

overalls, though I didn’t expect

you to actually do the painting.

TRENT

I told them I’m more creative when

I’m surrounded by the right colors.

ROBERT

And furniture, curtains. Sound

system.

TRENT

I get them what they want, I get

what I want.

ROBERT

Nice touch with the vacation and

medical bills.

3.

TRENT

I want her husband’s account.

Should pave the way, no?

ROBERT

Listen, I know the Governor’s

waiting, so-

TRENT

I just like to go over there. Let’s

me see where my Father was all

those times he couldn’t make it to

any of our events. It’s comforting

in an odd way.

ROBERT

Taught you to carry a big stick.

TRENT

Something like that. Here, you can

see the dome from the window. Watch

you don’t fall out, though.

As Robert steps closer, a barrage of kicks and chops from

Trent quickly opens up a few spurters from Robert’s face,

sprinkling Trent’s coveralls and the floor tarp, then-

ROBERT’S ON A ONE WAY TRIP TEN STORIES DOWN.

Trent calmly paints over the blood drips on the tarp and the

spray on his coveralls with a already dipped brush- before

frantically calling for the receptionist to come in

[Hope McPherson]

INT. TAVERN – NIGHT

In a crowded, dreary bar, ROBERT (30s) hoists a foaming mug. Buddies, TRENT and HARRY, do likewise.

Harry sets his mug down. Looks teary. They are already three sheets to the wind.

ROBERT

What’d I say? What. Did. I. Say?

TRENT

You’re three for three, Bobby. You were right about Kim. She’s banging Phil. And she would deny, deny, deny.

He takes a gulp. Robert shrugs.

HARRY

Shit.

ROBERT

You needed to know, Bro. But what’s past is past. Now you get to decide what to do.

Robert pats Harry’s shoulder.

TRENT

Show her the door. No, wait! Kick her through the door! Drain your accounts, get laid. In fact, start with that babe at the bar.

Trent nods at a plump woman wearing red lipstick and tight black yoga pants. She watching them from across the room. She raises the corner of her crimson lips in a sly smile, winks at Harry.

Harry salutes her, lifting his nearly empty mug.

TRENT

Let me get that party started for you, Friend.

Robert stops him.

ROBERT

We don’t wanna scare her. I’ll go.

The men laugh. Not Harry.

Robert sways to his feet, heads to the bar, leans into the woman, who keeps her eyes on Harry. Robert whispers in her ear. She says nothing.

Robert sloshes back to their table. Plops down.

ROBERT

She has an early morning meeting. Can’t party tonight.

Robert and Trent burst into laughter. Harry polishes off his beer.

HARRY

You know, you have a big mouth, Bobbie. Almost as big as Trent’s.

Robert slaps Harry on the back.

ROBERT

Don’t you know it!

Robert and Trent guffaw some more. Trent sets down his beer.

Harry looks into the bottom of his empty mug.

HARRY

(tips his mug upside down)

Ahhh. Look at this.

Not a drop left. Robert and Trent commiserate. Red Lips at the bar slips off her stool and strolls their way. Robert and Trent watch, greedy. Harry looks up, shrugs.

TRENT

You may be in luck after all, Harry. You may be in luck after all.

HARRY

I know I am.

The woman arrives at their table, looks the men up and down. Places a hand on Robert’s shoulder. Bends down.

RED LIPS

(whispers in Robert’s ear)

You left before I introduced myself.

Robert blushes.

ROBERT

(puts a hand on her butt)

Nothin’ stopping you now.

RED LIPS

No, nothing stopping me. I’m Heidi. Heidi Franks.

ROBERT

Franks? Why that’s Harry last name!

HARRY

Bobbie, Trent, meet my twin sis, Heidi. Heidi, these are the guys Kimmy was talking about.

Robert and Trent exchange looks, confused. Heidi picks up Harry’s empty mug.

RED LIPS

You mean crying about. The bastards.

She swings the mug like a major leaguer batting cleanup — hits Robert upside the head, catches Trent on her backswing.

Robert’s forehead slams into the table. Trent crashes to the ground.

The bar grows silent. All eyes on the pop-up drama.

RED LIPS

If I hear that you sissy gossips have been lying about my sister-in-law again, I’m going to lose my temper.

Kammy stands over the dazed men, ready for her second at-bat. They blink up at her, speechless.

She drops the heavy mug on Trent’s head. Picks up Robert’s mug and throws its contents into his face.

RED LIPS

Harry, come on. Kammy’s waiting.

[James Hernandez]

INT. MOONBASE – NIGHT

Administration and security personnel gather in the auditorium. A festive atmosphere as everyone is dressed in their finest outfits.

ROBERT takes the stage. He waits for silence to take over the space.

ROBERT

As we complete our first year on our out of this world home, I must say a toast is in order.

Robert raises his champagne glass and the crowd follows suit.

ROBERT

To our work and aggressive efforts to make this the best space command in the solar system.

TRENT stands in the rear and smirks in disgust of what he’s hearing. He is surrounded by TWO OFFICERS under his command.

TRENT

He thinks he can take all the credit for our accomplishment. Standing there giving a speech.

FIRST OFFICER

Do you still want to go through with your plan?

TRENT

Of course. We’ll wait till he’s done.

Robert sips his champagne like a professional liquor judge.

ROBERT

This fine drink was procured by the man himself.

Robert points to Trent in the crowd. They all turn and shine the spotlight on Trent.

ROBERT

His financial contribution was the best. He could have done more, but that’s who he is.

Trent fumes with rage at the commentary.

TRENT

Keep talking, we’re almost there.

SECOND OFFICER

We could be suspended or removed permanently, if we go through with it.

TRENT

Both of you will be compensated extremely well. No need to second guess me.

Robert finishes his drink on stage and loses his footing a bit.

ROBERT

Whoa! What’s in this drink? I never tasted sparkling champagne with that much kick.

Some LAUGHTER springs from the crowd, as Robert steps down from the stage.

Robert joins a SECURITY GUARD on the main floor.

ROBERT

Is the backroom all set?

SECURITY GUARD

It’s all set. But, someone’s career is over.

ROBERT

We can only hope.

SECURITY GUARD

Well, there’s nowhere to run. All the oxygen is in here.

Robert taps the security guard on the shoulder and gives the okay. He then glides toward Trent and the two officers.

ROBERT

Thank you for showing up.

TRENT

I wouldn’t miss this for the world.

ROBERT

I see you have the best of the best accompanying you tonight.

The two officers nod their heads.

TRENT

Thank you for the complement up there. My money thanks you.

ROBERT

No problem. I wish I were so set up for life.

TRENT

We’re holding a special get together down the hall. Care to join us?

Robert glances at the two officers who give their facial approval.

ROBERT

Sounds good. Shall we?

Trent leads Robert and the two officers down the corridor to a corner room.

Trent opens the door and walks in followed by Robert and the two officers.

TRENT

Here we are.

ROBERT

Yes we are.

Robert closes the door. Then the two officers POUNCE on Trent and gets the beating of his life.

FIRST OFFICER

You think your money’s good out here?!

SECOND OFFICER

Yeah, you turd! Party’s over chief!

The security guard stands outside the backroom as the POUNDING continues. The YELLS OF AGONY permeating the door make him wipe sweat off his forehead.

[Michael Greco]

SCENE – OPTIONS

Robert is attending a surprise birthday party for Trent, with the hope of scoring some spicy photos of Trent over-celebrating.

Robert is invited to a Gang Initiation of the Cobras, a Gang he desperately wants to join. Robert wants to become deputy or enforcer, and outsmart current enforcer Trent to get there.

Robert goes to a late-night party hoping to engage in sport sex, while his lover Trent is traveling for work.

Trent is the birthday celebrant, driven to test Robert’s loyalty and good faith by hot-boxing him about a recent spat of texts Robert sent to a mutual friend.

Trent is the able 1^st deputy and Enforcer of the Cobras, fiercely loyal to and protective of Mo the Leader; suspicious that people are trying to supplant him, constantly trying to pose loyalty tests to other gang members.

Trent goes to a raunchy club while pretending to his lover Robert that he has gone out of town, hoping to trap Robert engaging in sport sex behind Trent’s back.

———————————

SCENE

SURPRISE! by Michael Greco

INT. PIER OUTSIDE YACHT CLUB AT LAKEFRONT. NIGHT.

TRENT comes around outside of Yacht Club Building to Pier. Lights come up on Pier quickly, as a dozen people stand across from and facing TRENT.

ALL:

Surprise!

ROBERT feverishly snaps photos, then joins in the singing.

TRENT makes his way through the crowd, and comes up to ROBERT.

TRENT:

HEY! Glad you’re here!

ROBERT:

Me too! Deborah told me about it.

TRENT:

Deborah mentions you love surprises-

ROBERT:

Oh – huh- I wonder-

TRENT:

Showing up at her pub crawl unexpectedly, dialing up her ex- to interview him about their breakup for your blog-

ROBERT:

Right! I got forty comments on that blog-

TRENT:

Deborah’s ex- had a lot to say-

ROBERT (lowering his voice):

He was sort of bitter-

TRENT:

He sounded so noble, so magnanimous, in the blog-

ROBERT:

Deborah has some issues with dating nice guys-

TRENT:

She doesn’t have issues with me-

ROBERT:

With – YOU – oh NO, of course not, you’re so, Trent, you’re the best thing that’s happened-

TRENT:

Oh, of course, everyone knows that-

ROBERT:

I wonder if Deborah knows that-

TRENT:

You wonder?

ROBERT:

I just mean, your attention to detail, your gifts of planning and coordinating groups for such specific purposes, I mean, you got the Dessert Bar to add your Klondike bars to their menu when you staged that boycott-

TRENT:

That’s … those are my gifts-

ROBERT:

I should say so! Some of Deborah’s comments on SmashMouth make it seem like she thinks you’re just another good-looking slab-

TRENT:

Is that so-

ROBERT:

I mean, well, what do I know, I am – I mean, it’s just an interpretation. That’s what, that’s what I do-

TRENT:

That’s what you do-

-2-

ROBERT (flustered):

Mmm- right. Say, er, where is Deborah?

TRENT:

Deborah? She should be here – she invited you, right?

ROBERT:

Oh, right, of course-

TRENT (starting back into Club building):

Come on back, let’s get a drink-

ROBERT:

OH, I thought –

TRENT):

Yeah?

TRENT walks into building, and is moving through, attending Yachtmaster behind bar exchanges nods with TRENT. ROBERT follows.

ROBERT:

Did you, ah, did, did you work out your problem with your membership-

TRENT:

That? Oh, that was some incompetent attending Yachtmaster thinking that me changing my company structure iced me out of the Club-

ROBERT:

OH, that’s, er, so incompetent – how embarrassing – for him I mean-

TRENT:

Just a mistake. Not as embarrassing as you made it sound-

ROBERT:

I just, I felt, uh, I felt so bad about the whole thing-

-3-

TRENT:

A misunderstanding is all-

ROBERT:

SO you still have your company? You weren’t ousted? That’s great!

TRENT eyes ROBERT for an extra second. ROBERT twitches, squirms.

TRENT:

Keeps me moving. My stash is downstairs. The good stuff. Come on-

TRENT and ROBERT go down to basement. DEBORAH and another man (CARVER) are waiting.

ROBERT:

Oh, uh, hi Deborah, wow, I guess this is – where the party is!

TRENT:

You know it! We knew you’d want some exclusive content. For your informative BLOG, right?

ROBERT:

Oh, ah, right, well – it’s your BIRTHDAY! What goes in Vegas, STAYS in Vegas, right?

TRENT:

Is that right? You won’t be blogging about this? You remember Carver, Deborah’s ex-, don’t you-

CARVER:

What’s up-

ROBERT:

Car-, oh sure, I recognize you, the voice, I mean-

TRENT:

We thought we’d get together to review some of the facts-

ROBERT:

With ME? Oh, well, uh, no, my blogs are, are, for entertainment-

-4-

TRENT:

Really? No facts?

ROBERT:

Well, of course, my process, you start with facts, but it’s for entertainment – you’re trying for 10,000 hits –

TRENT:

So you enhance the facts-

ROBERT:

Enhanced facts, uh, well, yes, I would say – enhanced facts. I like that-

TRENT:

I think I can enhance this little party here-

TRENT rears back and jabs a punch into ROBERT’S face, knocking him backward toward CARVER. CARVER catches, ROBERT, helps him keep on his feet.

ROBERT:

Whoa, TRENT, I don’t know what’s wrong, I’m sorry if I-

TRENT clips ROBERT again, across jaw. ROBERT reels, falls to ground. TRENT kneels over him, punches down into ROBERT’s face several times more. ROBERT is groaning, whimpering.

TRENT:

This is gonna be the response every time you drag US through your blog. KEEP OUR NAMES AND RELATIONSHIPS OUT OF IT.

FADE OUT

-5-

[Kate Schank]

Kathleen Schank

INT. BIKER BAR

Sports Bar and restaurant

Trent and Robert are both celebrating at an engagement party for their mutual friends Bryan and Wendy at the biker bar.

TRENT

Just tell me where the gifts registry is. I will definitely be buying you both gifts. I really do want to buy you something very nice.

BRYAN

Oh, Trent you really would? We’d like that, me and Wendy.

TRENT

How about after the wedding, a honeymoon perhaps?

BRYAN

We are going on a cruise vacation to the Bahamas. We can’t wait to get away.

TRENT

Away? Away from who? You know I’d like to join you. Let me know the flight details.

BRYAN

Would you really? That would be- well, let’s see…

TRENT

Come and sit down with me and eat later.

A rowdy few bikers enter the bar area from outside. They are very large and intimidating, and wearing matching vests. Dolores enters with them.

BIKER 1

This some kind of party?

Indicating his seat which is being used by Trent.

This here is the seat where I always sit with Dolores.

BRYAN

Please be our guests!

WENDY

We’re having an engagement party. We’re filling up the place, what fun.

BIKER 2

They sure are havin’ fun. Just look at these invited guests!

BIKER 1

It’s so crowded that it’s making me sweat.

BIKER 2

Let’s go into the backroom, it’s so much more spacious.

BIKER 1

(Kind of mad)

Well, alright.

Robert notices Wendy by the bar.

ROBERT

There you are, Wendy!

Greets her kissing her cheek.

WENDY

Haven’t seen you and Trent in ages! I’m so glad that you texted me you were coming.

DOLORES

I’m Dolores- let’s chat a while.

ROBERT

Ladies! The drinks are on me of course.

Trent has approached the bar.

TRENT

Robert- are you sure? I’d buy a full round. Maybe the next ones!

TIM

Next ones on me!

TRENT

Alright.

ROBERT

(To Dolores)

Do you know how they met that gentleman Trent? I’ll let you in on a little secret. He was at the Yacht club one night, when he was stopped at the door. He didn’t have an invitation. Well, Wendy was there and thought he was so pathetic that she invited him in. He spent the night with Bryan who thought he was so funny because he thought Wendy found him attractive. It was so ridiculous!

DOLORES

Wendy and Bryan have been together since they were teens. Trent was always jealous.

BIKER 3

(Approaching Robert)

You don’t own a motorcycle pal?

ROBERT

No, I don’t.

BIKER 3

You probably couldn’t handle it.

ROBERT

Watch this- okay, Trent! Trent-

Did you promise to buy a round of alcohol?

TRENT

A round of drinks? No, that was uh- you.

BIKER 1

(Shouting from the back room.)

Dolores come in here.

DOLORES

Come and sit by my friend there, come on.

TRENT

Dolores-

BIKER1

Where’s my drink? Why didn’t you buy Dolores a drink?

TRENT

I don’t know, do you?

BIKER1

(Grabbing Trent’s shirt)

You took my seat remember!

Pushes Trent down.

Wendy arrives with an extra drink.

WENDY

Here- somebody want this -?

Throws it in the biker’s face.

BIKER1

I hate people who don’t ride motorcycles.

[Sandra Hildreth]

A DINNER DATE

By Sandra Hildreth

INT. TRENT’S KITCHEN – DAY

Trent’s kitchen is meticulously clean and organized. The dishes behind the glass doored cabinets are organized by function and lined up or stacked by size and shape perfectly. A shiny chrome tray on the otherwise empty countertop next to the refrigerator holds three footed coffee cups, a napkin holder full of neatly folded paper napkins, a sugar bowl, creamer, a spoon resting on a napkin, and a half-full coffee pot.

The black appliances, glass stove-top and granite countertop shine brilliantly.

TRENT, 42, still in his pajamas and silk robe, sips his coffee as he reads the morning newspaper. He carefully folds the paper, lays it on the table, picks up his phone and dials a number.

TRENT

Hi, Robert. How are you this bright and sunny morning?

ROBERT (V.O.)

Trent. How perfectly lovely to hear from you.

TRENT

Do you have any plans this evening?

ROBERT (V.O.)

No. Why?

TRENT

How would you like to join me for spaghetti? A friend brought by some marvelous sauce and I can’t wait to taste it.

ROBERT (V.O.)

I’d love to. What time?

TRENT

8:00?

ROBERT (V.O.)

Can I bring anything?

TRENT

Oh, that would be lovely. The Wine Shop near you has some Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019, that would pair perfectly. Oh, and if you could also stop at that bakery next door and pick up a baguette, we’d be all set.

ROBERT (V.O.)

Sauvignon, 2019, and baguette. Sounds easy enough. I’ll be there at 8:00.

TRENT

Good. See you tonight.

ROBERT (V.O.)

Tonight.

Trent looks at the phone’s screen, pushes the red phone icon, sets it carefully on the table, picks up the paper, unfolds it, and resumes reading it.

INT. TRENT’S LIVING ROOM – NIGHT

Soft music plays in the background.

Trent pulls two of everything out of the cabinets and drawers he needs to set the table – dinner plates, salad plates, soup bowls, wine glasses, water glasses, dinner knives, soup spoons, white cloth napkins. A low-profile flower arrangement is in the middle of the table flanked by two ornate candelabras with twisted, white candles. He sets up the place settings on opposite sides of the table, making sure each piece is in exactly the right place.

He takes a pitcher of water from the refrigerator, fills the two water glasses, and returns the pitcher to the fridge.

From the countertop, Trent takes two lidded bowls, a bowl of finely grated parmesan cheese with a small serving spoon, and a plate of antipasto and places them on the dining table. He checks his watch. 8:10.

The Doorbell RINGS. Trent rubs his hands together, holds his head up high, strides to the front door and opens it wide.

Robert stands at the front door, wine bottle in one hand, a baguette in a bakery bag in the other. He lifts both hands up in greeting, lowers them, and enters.

TRENT

Oh, you brought the wine and bread. Goodie. 2019?

ROBERT

Yes, 2019. A bit more expensive than my usual, but spending an evening with you is worth it.

TRENT

Oh, you are too kind, my friend.

Trent takes the wine and bread and gestures toward the table.

TRENT

Have a seat. Either chair. I’ll be right there.

Robert pulls out a chair and sits down.

Trent puts the baguette on a bread tray with bread knife and butter pats. He looks at the wine bottle’s label, nods in satisfaction, and uncorks the wine. He takes the bread tray to the table, sets the bread down, pours wine into the wine glasses, sets the bottle down, pulls a lighter out of his pocket and lights the candles. He takes a step back and looks over the table and his guest.

TRENT

Ah, perfect.

Trent takes the lids off the bowls, puts them on the countertop, takes the salad bowl out of the refrigerator and picks up the spaghetti spoon, sauce ladle, and salad tongs waiting on the countertop. He puts the salad on the table and places the utensils in the appropriate bowls.

TRENT

Ready? Please, you go first.

ROBERT

Thank you. This looks and smells delicious.

Trent cuts a few slices off the baguette, setting aside the heal, while Robert fills his plate. Once filled, Robert generously sprinkles his food with the parmesan cheese.

Trent fills his plate, but does not use the parmesan cheese. Robert does not notice the omission.

The men carry on a conversation as they eat.

TRENT

I understand you work with Harriet?

ROBERT

Harriet Wilson?

TRENT

Yes. Harriet Wilson.

ROBERT

Yes. Sweet lady. She and I are good friends.

TRENT

More parmesan?

ROBERT

Thank you, yes. I’m very fond of parmesan and this is particularly good.

Robert sprinkles more parmesan over his spaghetti.

TRENT

Really? I heard you and she are enemies, that you don’t like her at all.

ROBERT

I’m not sure who told you that, but it’s quite the opposite. I admire her a great deal.

TRENT

Oh, please, tell me what you admire about her. I think she’s quite delightful.

ROBERT

Certainly! She’s always to work on time, helps anyone who asks, always has a smile, she’s very attractive, she’s raising three children on her own and, from what I understand, is doing a very good job of it.

Robert eats the last bite off his plate, pats his lips, and sets the napkin beside the plate. Robert does the same.

TRENT

Amazing. Those are the very same things I admire about her, and although I can’t testify about her being at work on time and helping her coworkers, that fits in with her personal attributes perfectly. Finished?

ROBERT

Yes. Everything was delicious. Thank you so very much.

TRENT

I’m glad you like it. I prepared everything just for you. I would like to show you a photo of Harriet and me in the guest room. Care to join me?

ROBERT

I would like that very much.

Trent leads the way to the guest room. He walks to the dresser and picks up a photo if he and Harriet, taken when they were much younger. He hands it to Robert. Robert looks at it, studies it, and carefully puts it back on the dresser.

ROBERT

So you’ve been friends a long time?

TRENT

A very long time. But I have a question for you. What about her computer viewing habits?

ROBERT

Computer viewing habits?

TRENT

Yes. You know, her propensity of watching porn when she’s on her breaks or at lunch? On the company’s computer?

Robert ceases smiling and looks gravely at Trent.

ROBERT

I don’t know what you mean.

TRENT

Really? That’s not what I heard. When it was announced that you and she were in competition for the same position, you didn’t go immediately to H.R. and tell them you saw Harriet watching porn?

ROBERT

That wasn’t me, I swear.

TRENT

Liar! H.R. called Harriet in, ready to fire her. Luckily, the computer history showed Harriet to be completely innocent. Why would you do that?

ROBERT

Why did she think it was me?

TRENT

Stupid. Easy. Harriet was at the other end of the hall when you and the head of H.R. left the office. You turned one way and the head of H.R. saw Harriet and immediately confronted her. It didn’t take a mental giant to figure things out.

ROBERT

(Sputtering)

No, no, it wasn’t me. I, I, I don’t know who it was she saw, but it wasn’t me…

Trent draws back his fist, hits Robert until his face is bruised and bloody. Robert drops to the floor.

ROBERT

Please, no more. Please stop.

TRENT

I’ll stop, but you may want to get home quickly. That cheese was highly laced with a very strong laxative. And, by the way, expect a visit from H.R.

[Carolyn Bliesener]

EXT. BACKYARD – DAY

An urban yard with a few pieces of broken patio furniture and a 3 tiered wedding cake on a table with a busted umbrella. A small family group representing different generations stand around eating cake.

ROBERT, a modestly handsome 25 year old, stands next to CAROL (25 years old) who wears a white dress and flowers in her hair.

ROBERT

I heard Trent’s father couldn’t come today because he’s on his yacht in Greece.

(looking around)

Where is he, by the way? Where’s the guy who stole my girl?

Carol smiles, weakly.

ROBERT

(whispers in her ear)

I’m still crazy about you.

CAROL

(sighs)

Robert…

ROBERT

I got you a wedding gift. It’s in the house, I’ll go get it.

INT. HOUSE – DAY

A dilapidated interior with decades old decor.

TRENT, 25, very handsome, walks down the hallway with his arm around a young woman. They laugh at a shared joke.

When they see Robert the young woman blushes and pushes Trent’s arm away, exiting quickly into the backyard.

ROBERT

You son of a bitch!

Trent tries to walk past Robert, but is blocked.

TRENT

Get out of my way.

ROBERT

(pushes Trent)

You’re a goddamn dirtbag.

TRENT

Listen, asshole. If you don’t let me join my bride she’ll start to wonder.

ROBERT

You don’t even have a job.

TRENT

What’s it to you?

ROBERT

I heard you don’t have a rich father, either.

TRENT

Who told you that?

ROBERT

I saw the ring.

TRENT

It’s what Carol wanted.

ROBERT

I know what Carol wanted.

TRENT

I remember you now. You’re the guy she dumped because you’re fucking crazy.

ROBERT

Daddy couldn’t hop on his private jet and fly to Jersey, huh? I mean, we do have airports. Private ones even.

TRENT

You don’t know anything about it.

ROBERT

I know you’re a liar and a cheater.

TRENT

Carol dumped you and you wound up in the looney bin.

ROBERT

Shut up! It was a group home.

TRENT

What the hell are you even doing here at our wedding?

ROBERT

I’m going to tell everyone what you did.

TRENT

I don’t remember you on the invite list.

ROBERT

Listen, I only want what’s best for Carol, just like you. Right? You want what’s best for Carol. Sure you do.

TRENT

I love Carol, she needs me. And I need her. Now all we need to do is make sure she doesn’t find out about this. Okay? For everyone’s sake?

Trent grabs Robert by the testicles.

TRENT

And if you don’t do as I say, I squeeze.

Robert’s pained face points to the window. Carol sees him and frowns, puzzled. She doesn’t see their lower halves, being blocked by a table. Robert smiles at her.

ROBERT
Okay. She’s looking right at us.

Trent looks at Carol and smiles. He lets go. Robert shudders in relief.

ROBERT

(through smiling)

You’re fucking dead.

TRENT

(also smiling)

No you are.

Robert walks to the hallway toward the bedroom and Trent follows.

TRENT
I can’t wait to smash your face in.

ROBERT

Yeah. And if you’re so wealthy, what are you doing in Red Cloud, Nebraska?

[Tom Wilson]

Lesson 5 Scene – First Version

INT. CAR REPAIR SHOP – NIGHT

TRENT enters. ROBERT hands him a drink. They toast the new year.

ROBERT
I was pleased I introduced
you to my sister.

TRENT
Madge is quite a gal.

Trent feels woozy, looks at his drink.

Robert lets him lie down on a cot in his backroom.

Later Trent goes to exit but the backroom door is locked.

From the outside, Robert unlocks the door and enters.

ROBERT
You knocked Madge up.

TRENT
What?

ROBERT
You’re lucky. She wants to
keep the baby and marry you.

TRENT
We had sex only once. A week ago.
She can’t know yet if she’s pregnant.

ROBERT
If you don’t marry her, you’ll
pay child support from now on.

TRENT
I can’t afford to marry anybody.
Or support a child. I’m nearly broke.

ROBERT
What about all those fancy
vacations. And the Maserati?

TRENT
I watch Discovery TV about fab
vacations so I can impress people.
The wheels belong to an old friend I take
care of. She’s in a wheelchair. I fetch her
groceries. Get to use the Maserati weekends.

ROBERT
I don’t buy it.

Trent struggles with the door but can’t open it.

From the outside, MARVIN unlocks the door and enters.

Trent tries to escape. Marvin punches him in his solar plexus.

He gasps, can’t breathe.

ROBERT
Trent, this is Marvin.
Oh, I see you’ve met.

Marvin shoves Trent into the well in a the repair bay.

A hydraulic hoist holds a car directly above the well.

Marvin handcuffs Trent to the hydraulic shaft that raises and lowers cars to be worked on.

Trent embraces the hoist’s shaft directly under the elevated car.

TRENT
I’m not the guy you think I am.

Robert speaks to Marvin.

ROBERT
Remember, the ER. Not the morgue.

Marvin kicks Trent in his right kidney. #

[Tom Wilson]

Lesson 5 Scene – Rewritten Version

INT. DIRTY CAR REPAIR SHOP – NIGHT

TRENT enters.

ROBERT closes and locks the door.

Trent overdoes a Boston accent.

TRENT
This a tough nabahhood?

Robert picks up a glass of champagne. Nods at another on the desk.

Trent picks up the other glass. Raises it.

ROBERT
To the New Year.

TRENT
The New Yeah!

Trent takes a sip. Eyes a second-hand desk. Sees rips in an upholstered chair.

ROBERT
Our bright future ahead.

I was pleased to introduce
you to my sister.

TRENT
Madge is quite a gal.

ROBERT
But not so much lately.

Trent feels woozy. Sets down his glass.

Robert opens a backroom door.

ROBERT
Have a seat.

Trent enters the room and sits on a cot. Slumps over. Falls asleep.

LATER Trent wakes up. Pulls on the door handle. It’s locked.

From the outside, Robert opens the door and enters.

ROBERT
Madge’s pregnant because of you.

TRENT
What?

ROBERT
You’re lucky. She wants to
keep the baby and marry you.
TRENT
We had sex only once. A week ago.
How could she know if she’s preggers.

ROBERT
You’re an expert. Rape a lot of girls.

TRENT
There was no rape.

ROBERT
As long as you cooperate.

Trent puts his glass down. Takes a step forward.

TRENT
What’d yuh mean?

ROBERT
If you don’t marry her, you’ll
pay child support from now on.

TRENT
You can’t prove I’m the dad.

Robert slides Trent’s glass into a plastic baggy.

ROBERT
DNA don’t lie.

TRENT
I can’t afford to marry nobody.

ROBERT
What happened with the “pahk my cah in Ha-vid Sqar.”

TRENT
Or support a kid. I’m nearly broke.

ROBERT
What about those fancy
vacations. And the Maserati?

TRENT
I watch Discovery TV about fab vacations.
To impress people. The wheels are an old
friend’s. She’s in a wheelchair. I fetch her
eats. Get to use the Maserati weekends.

ROBERT
I don’t buy it.

Trent shakes the door. It won’t open.

The door POPS open. MARVIN enters.

Trent pushes past him. Marvin punches him in the solar plexus.

Abrupt exhale. Hands go to his knees. Short gasps for breath.

Marvin’s a big-boned mouth breather. Mustard on his cheek is left over from lunch.

ROBERT
This is Marvin.
Oh, I see you’ve met.

TRENT
I’m not the guy you think I am.

Marvin guides Trent out the door. He stumbles to a repair bay.

A hydraulic hoist holds a car overhead.

Marvin tapes Trent’s arms up to the hoist shaft.

Trent is trapped directly below the car that can be dropped at any time.

Robert speaks to Marvin.

ROBERT
Remember, the ER. Not the morgue.
Marvin punches Trent. #

[Tom Wilson]

Lesson 5 Scene – Rewritten Version

INT. DIRTY CAR REPAIR SHOP – NIGHT

TRENT enters.

ROBERT closes and locks the door.

Trent overdoes a Boston accent.

TRENT
This a tough nabahhood?

Robert picks up a glass of champagne. Nods at another on the desk.

Trent picks up the other glass. Raises it.

ROBERT
To the New Year.

TRENT
The New Yeah!

Trent takes a sip. Eyes a second-hand desk. Sees rips in an upholstered chair.

ROBERT
Our bright future ahead.

I was pleased to introduce
you to my sister.

TRENT
Madge is quite a gal.

ROBERT
But not so much lately.

Trent feels woozy. Sets down his glass.

Robert opens a backroom door.

ROBERT
Have a seat.

Trent enters the room and sits on a cot. Slumps over. Falls asleep.

LATER Trent wakes up. Pulls on the door handle. It’s locked.

From the outside, Robert opens the door and enters.

ROBERT
Madge’s pregnant because of you.

TRENT
What?

ROBERT
You’re lucky. She wants to
keep the baby and marry you.
TRENT
We had sex only once. A week ago.
How could she know if she’s preggers.

ROBERT
You’re an expert. Rape a lot of girls.

TRENT
There was no rape.

ROBERT
As long as you cooperate.

Trent puts his glass down. Takes a step forward.

TRENT
What’d yuh mean?

ROBERT
If you don’t marry her, you’ll
pay child support from now on.

TRENT
You can’t prove I’m the dad.

Robert slides Trent’s glass into a plastic baggy.

ROBERT
DNA don’t lie.

TRENT
I can’t afford to marry nobody.

ROBERT
What happened with the “pahk my cah in Ha-vid Sqar.”

TRENT
Or support a kid. I’m nearly broke.

ROBERT
What about those fancy
vacations. And the Maserati?

TRENT
I watch Travel Channel about fab vacations.
To impress people. The wheels are an old
friend’s. She’s in a wheelchair. I fetch her
eats. Get to use the Maserati weekends.

ROBERT
I don’t buy it.

Trent shakes the door. It won’t open.

The door POPS open. MARVIN enters.

Trent pushes past him. Marvin punches him in the solar plexus.

Abrupt exhale. Hands go to his knees. Short gasps for breath.

Marvin’s a big-boned mouth breather. Mustard on his cheek is left over from lunch.

ROBERT
This is Marvin.
Oh, I see you’ve met.

TRENT
I’m not the guy you think I am.

Marvin guides Trent out the door. He stumbles to a repair bay.

A hydraulic hoist holds a car overhead.

Marvin tapes Trent’s arms up to the hoist shaft.

Trent is trapped directly below the car that can be dropped at any time.

Robert speaks to Marvin.

ROBERT
Remember, the ER. Not the morgue.

Marvin punches Trent. #

[Joseph McGloin]

INT. SPACE – SPACE CAPSULE – DAY

Trent and Robert in space suits minus the helmet. The rest of the crew stands behind Trent, ready to help the two start their space walk.

Robert raises a phantom champagne glass. Puts an arm around Trent.

ROBERT

You are an inspiration to us all!

TRENT

Thanks, but you are the one who was the topic of conversation at breakfast today.

ROBERT

Couldn’t have been anything important.

Robert looks to the others surrounding him.

TRENT

It was about the possibility of only one of us coming back. Due to a malfunction of some kind. The crew has checked my suit. I hope there’s time to check yours.

ROBERT

(whispers)

Let’s not talk about the minor space walk issues the others have discovered. They’re insignificant.

Steps back.

ROBERT

To the best friend a man ever had! Despite the…never mind. It was a long time ago, and you were young.

Trent gets help from the crew with his space suit not quite fitting. Trent gets in Robert’s face.

TRENT

Apparently not too long to remember, sour puss.

ROBERT

Well both of us have goodies in our locker, then. But I’m sure your gifts to me are better.

To crew.

ROBERT

Forget that little incident that happened so long ago. I’m sure Trent doesn’t even remember.

Crew helps Trent with the helmet.

TRENT

You mean when I met my wife. When you were dating her. Such a little thing. I remember every detail of that first night. She was wonderful. For me. Not you. You were history after that.

(to crew)

I can’t get the food…pouchy…thing in my glove.

Several nearly fawn over him helping.

ROBERT

Water under the bridge. Really. Just…thinking about it.

TRENT

Me too, and how you ruined our wedding with the 13 Elvis impersonators parachuting in. Completely forgotten.

Robert watches the crew help Trent.

ROBERT

You guys aren’t helping me.

TRENT

You didn’t plan a party for everyone when we get back – with little gifts of gold for all. Except you, since you got yours here.

ROBERT

Mine? What a pal! Three cheers for Trent!

Nobody cheers.

TRENT

We moved your things into the cargo bay. More room there. And I gave you a new toothbrush. You’re welcome.

ROBERT

Cargo bay? It’s smaller than my quarters. Guess I deserve it, huh?

TRENT

We needed the room for everyone’s presents. They are most appreciative. My suit has a few…upgrades.

ROBERT

Like the oxygen tube. I know. I hope it still works. I…tested it. It’s not clogged anymore.

Trent glances at the tube, messy with chocolate.

ROBERT

You see, they know, Trent. They know you gamble, and they know you sold your wife to cover your debts.

The crew finishes tightening the helmet so Trent can’t move.

ROBERT

They decided not to send you out without – how can I say it – a “massage.”

TRENT

Over my dead body!

Picks up a wrench. Waves it at the crew.

ROBERT

Not exactly. That’s not oxygen coming into your suit.

Robert faints. The crew descends on him, all fists and shoes.

EXT. SPACE – DAY

Beat up Trent floats, tethered to the capsule.