Episode 04 - Leo's Orders

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SCENE ONE: The Kitchen of Stacy & Leo's house where Brad & Jennifer's
wedding was to be held. Leo is seen picking up the telephone. Meanwhile
Lieutenant Jake Stafford is at his office at Fort Cedar, one of two
military bases located in and around Cedarville. Stafford is on the phone
with Leo.
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LEO (picking up phone) - Hello?

LT. STAFFORD (over the phone) - Is Lt. Leo McFadden there please?

LEO - Speaking. Who is this?

LT. STAFFORD - Lt. McFadden, this is Lt. Jake Stafford at Fort Cedar. I'm
afraid I have some news you're not gonna wanna hear, especially at this
time of the year.

(Leo fears this is the one call a soldier dreads the most)

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Stacy, Rob, Stephanie, Trish, Greg, David, Marcie & Brad are all in the den
(where the reception is) talking about the phone call Leo just got
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STEPHANIE (Trying to remain optimistic) - Now Stace...We don't KNOW that's
the case. They could be calling for A THOUSAND reasons.

STACY (Trying to face reality) - Steph, you really mean well but you just
don't understand. A phone call from a military base to an enlisted man on
leave can only mean one thing. ORDERS FROM HEADQUARTERS. That spells
DEPLOYMENT with a capital D.

STACY (resigning herself to the worst possible scenario) - And to think I
thought we were gonna have a nice Holiday Weekend too. *Awwww*

TRISH - Either way Stacy, they're not going to send Leo overseas NOW with
the holidays coming up. That'd be....like.....PR SUICIDE. (Looking at
Stephanie) Stephanie ought to know the PR spin. She sees and hears it all
the time.

(Stephanie giggles)

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Back to Leo, who's on the phone with Lt. Jake Stafford from Fort Cedar
***************************************************************************************************

LEO (Non-Chalantly and uncaring as he rolls his eyes) - Okay.....Let's have it.

JAKE - You are to report here within the next 48 hours for re-deployment to
Iraq. Failure to do so WILL result in your court marshall.

LEO - Alright....Who signed the orders.

JAKE - The Pentagon.

JAKE (continuing) - I really didn't want to bring this news to you
Leo. Especially at this time of year, but.....

LEO (Interrupting) - Yeah....yeah....yeah. You needn't say
anymore. Anything else?

JAKE - Nope. See you in 48 hours. Happy Thanksgiving. (Rolls eyes)

LEO (Sarcastically) - Yeah. Thanks a lot.

(Leo hangs up the phone after Jake hangs up on his end)

LEO (continuing) - Thanks a hell of a lot Mr President. You sure know how
to WRECK people's holidays. How in the world am I gonna break the news to
Stacy? We've NEVER been apart for the holidays. Not even after 9/11.
*Ohhhhhhhh*

(Brad walks in)

BRAD - Bad news, eh

LEO - Yeah. Just got deployment orders. One hell of a way to send someone
happy holiday wishes.....

BRAD - Well....Look at this way. Think of all the other men & women in the
military WHO ARE COMING HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS. You're doing them a favor.

LEO (Sarcastically) - Gee Brad. Thanks for RUBBING MY NOSE IN IT.

(Rob walks in)

ROB - Rubbing your nose into what Leo?

BRAD - Leo just got deployment orders.

LEO (cringing) - Don't announce it to the whole freakin' world. Stacy's
out there somewhere.

BRAD (feeling offended) - Well....Sorry. Guess I'll go back to my little
corner like a good little boy and go back to moping now....

LEO - Aww...Forget it. I'm the one who should be sorry. Here I am moping
because of a phone call I got while YOU just had your love life come
crashing down around you.

BRAD - Forget it man. Ain't your fault. Besides, I shouldn't be surprised
at ANYTHING *she* says or does anymore. HOW in the world I was so FOOLISH
into trusting and believing in her, I'll NEVER know. (Shakes head)

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SCENE TWO - Greg & Stephanie decide to leave together
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STEPHANIE (To Greg) - What do you say we blow this joint and get some REAL
dinner at the Fond Du Lac?

GREG (surprised) - Sounds like a FABULOUS idea.

(Greg grabs his coat from Stephanie's hand)

TRISH - You two leaving on us?

STEPHANIE - Yeah. We figured we'd have our own little 'private' reception.
(winking and smiling at Greg)

TRISH - Ohh....well. Okay then. You two have fun.

GREG - Thanks for the invite guys. Had a WONDERFUL time even though it was
a ceremony from hell......

TRISH - Yeah, but I must admit I've been watching the two of you.

STEPHANIE (smiling) - Ohh really?

TRISH (smiling) - Yep. And I think there's something there. You two have
chemistry.

DAVID (smiling) - I agree

MARCIE (smiling) - So do I.

GREG - Well then....I guess we'll just have to plea guilty as charged,
won't we? (Looking at Stephanie, who winks at him and waves as the two of
them leave)

TRISH - Bye now.

MARCIE - We had better get going too. I'll see you guys later?

TRISH - Yep.

MARCIE - Great. Well....Bye now (David waves as he and Marcie leave)

ROB - Everyone's leaving huh?

TRISH - Yeah, and I think it's about time I get out of here too. Looks
like it might snow any minute now.

STACY - Okay. Thanks for EVERYTHING you did today Trish. You're a REAL
LIFE SAVER.

TRISH (Downplaying Stacy's comments) - 'Twas nothing. Although getting the
shock of my life didn't help, but we made it.

STACY - True. (Looking at Rob) Don't tell me YOU are leaving too...

ROB - Gotta. Otherwise I won't make it home tonight so I can spend
Thanksgiving over at Michelle's tomorrow.

STACY - Alrighty then. Send Michelle our love.

TRISH (At the door) - Michelle? Who's Michelle?

STACY - Rob's girlfriend.

TRISH - Ohh....okay. Well....seeya.

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SCENE THREE - Greg & Stephanie at the Fond Du Lac Restaurant, which is a
trendy restaurant that was just opened by Jake's younger sister Michelle
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WAITER - Welcome to the Fond Du Lac. Smoking or Non-Smoking?

GREG - Non-Smoking

WAITER - Right this way (grabs a couple menu pamphlets from the front area)

(Greg & Stephanie follow the waiter to their table)

WAITER (Handing the order pamphlets to Greg & Stephanie) - Can I get you
anything like some water, an appetizer....

STEPHANIE (Interrupting the waiter as she looks at the menu) Nothing for
me. Thanks.

GREG (Looking at the menu) - I'll have a scotch on the rocks please.

STEPHANIE (changing her mind) - Make that two.

(The waiter jots the order down on his notepad and walks off)

GREG - Nice little place, isn't it?

STEPHANIE - Yeah. Very trendy.

(Greg notices Steve & Jennifer walk in)

GREG - Don't look now but they're at it again (referencing to Steve & Jennifer)

STEPHANIE (Looking up) Ohh....No. Oh well. This *is* afterall a PUBLIC
restaurant. We'll just ignore them.

(The waiter returns to Greg & Stephanie's table)

WAITER - Would you care to place an order now?

(Greg & Stephanie both look over the menu one last time before making their
final selection)

GREG - Yes. I'll have the Fillet Mignon Du Lac

WAITER - Okay. And you madame?

STEPHANIE - I'll have this grilled chicken meal here (showing the menu to
the waiter with her finger pointed to her selection).

WAITER (smiling) - That's the Grilled Chicken Du Lac. MARVELOUS meal

STEPHANIE - Great. That's what I want then.

WAITER - Anything else?

(Greg & Stephanie remain silent)

WAITER - Okay. It'll be about 20 minutes.

(The waiter takes the menu and walks away)

STEPHANIE - So REALLY, what HAVE you been up to? Surely you don't expect
me to believe that you and Courtney are this happy, go-lucky couple who
goes gallavanting around the world on some stupid yacht. Seriously, what's
going on? Why rehash the feelings we had for each other? Why bring up all
our memories from the past? They're happy ones and I want to keep them
that way.

GREG - Because no matter where we stand, I LOVE YOU. I always will. And
even if I can't be married to you, I can't hide the feelings I still have
for you. I just can't do it.

STEPHANIE - You hid them long enough to get married to Courtney.

GREG - You know why that had to be done. I did it for my kid which
Courtney was going to bring into the world.

STEPHANIE - But you can't do it for Courtney herself. How convienent. I
wasn't ready to commit, so you ordered yourself a MAIL ORDER BRIDE and
wound up with Courtney.

GREG - Things between Courtney and I just took off. I never even imagined
how fast and furious they would end up. And I certainly didn't think I'd lose YOU
in the process.

STEPHANIE - Well....Losing me is EXACTLY what happened Greg. You know that.

GREG - I know. And admittedly, there are times when I feel like I keep
shooting myself in the foot and often find myself wondering WHAT IF. WHAT
IF I had married you and not Courtney. That's mainly why I wrote all those
letters.

STEPHANIE - Well....I'm not gonna lie. I still have feelings for
you. They're not the same as before, but they're there nevertheless.

GREG - So....Do you forgive me?

STEPHANIE - If I didn't forgive you, do you think we'd be sitting here
having this conversation now? But I haven't forgotten what you did
though. You hurt me. I felt like a big chunk of my heart was ripped
out. I love you too Greg. Bur right now, I just can't say it's the same
way that you love me. I need time and space to sort out the feelings I
have for you. I just can't pick up where we left off, ya know?

GREG - Yeah. I know.

(Steve & Jennifer, sitting at the bar, spot Greg & Stephanie sitting at
their table. Steve strolls over followed by Jennifer, who fears trouble
lies ahead)

STEVE (To Greg & Stephanie) - Well....well...well. If it ain't the rich
man CHEATING ON HIS WIFE with Channel 4's finest reporter.

JENNIFER (Pleading with Steve) - Steve, let's just leave 'em alone.

GREG (on the defensive) - Well if ain't Cedarville's SERIAL WIFE KILLER who
just BLEW INTO TOWN just as EVERYONE thought he had left for
good....Ohh....And what's this (now looking at Jennifer), then TOWN
SLUT? You sure know how to pick 'em Steve. I'll give you that much credit.

STEPHANIE - Greg....Let's not create a scene here.

GREG (Looking at Steve squarely in the eye) - Stephanie gave some pretty
wise words Steve. Now, why don't you and Little Miss Muppet run along so
WE may eat OUR curds and whey - IN PEACE?

STEVE - You know Greg, when I heard that you and the princess broke up, I
couldn't believe it at first. Afterall, thanks to the princess and her
so-called "reporting" which was really a trial AND execution in the media,
it did seem that, for awhile, I was on my way to the chair while the two of
you were on your way to the altar.

STEPHANIE - Right Steve. And you know EXACTLY why that was.

GREG - What are you trying to accomplish with this INSIDEOUS public
confrontation here Steve? Can't get enough humiliation on your own in
private? Why DID you come back to Cedarville anyway?

STEVE - Perhaps the same question should be asked of you Greg. Why did YOU
come back to Cedarville?

GREG (Now toe-to-toe with Steve) - Because UNLIKE YOU, I *have* friends and
loved ones here. YOU HAVE NO ONE except THE SLUT (Looking at Jennifer)

(The waiter walks up with Greg & Stephanie's orders, but also notices the
scene the altercation at Greg & Stephanie's table is creating)

WAITER - I'm afraid I must ask that if you're going to have such a intense
conversation that you do so outside as you ARE creating a scene here. In
the meantime, here are your orders. Bon Appetite.

GREG (To the waiter) - Thank you.

(The waiter leaves)

STEPHANIE (To Steve) - You heard the man. Leave.

STEVE - I don't recall him saying that

MICHELLE (out of nowhere) - No, but *I* will. And since I own this little
establishment, MY WORD IS LAW (Looking at Steve). And UNLESS you want me
to summon the law, you WILL comply. BOTH OF YOU (noticing Jennifer trying
to hide as if she were playing possum). DO I MAKE MYSELF CLEAR?

STEVE (To Michelle) - Crystal. (Looking at Greg and still standing
toe-to-toe with him) - This isn't over yet. Not by a long shot.

(After a quick glance at Stephanie, Steve leaves, followed by
Jennifer. Michelle returns to what she was doing)

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SCENE FOUR - Greg & Courtney's Yacht. Courtney is rummaging through their
postage receipts to throw out old ones when she stumbles across a small
stack of them with Greg's handwriting for letters addressed to Stephanie
*************************************************************************

COURTNEY (Curiously surprised and disturbed and talking to herself in an
almost vengeful manner) - What the hell is this? I thought he was over
Stephanie. What are you doing Gregory? You BETTER NOT be trying to go
after MY HUSBAND Stephanie or (with GOD as my witness) you WILL regret
it. I SWEAR - YOU WILL REGRET IT. NO ONE messes with MY FAMILY. NO ONE.

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ON THE NEXT EDITION OF "Against The Storm"
**************************************************************************

* Will Leo tell Stacy about his Deployment Orders? How will she react?

* Do Greg & Stephanie REALLY have a future now that they've admitted where
they stand? Will Greg come clean and explain the letters to Courtney? How
will she react?

* Will Steve give Greg & Stephanie any further problems by drudging up the
past? What is Steve's REAL motive for returning to Cedarville? Will he
once again try to profess his love for Jennifer? How will Jennifer react?

* Will Brad confront Jennifer about what he saw?

Episode 03 - The Fallout

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SCENE ONE - The Den at Stacy & Leo's house where the wedding between Brad & Jennifer was supposed to take place. Everyone is now located there and chatter of shock and disbelief has arisen as Brad made the announcement that he thought he saw Steve Farley, once thought to have left town several months ago for a new life after being acquitted of murder charges stemming from the death of his 2nd wife Alexis, kissing Jennifer and making love to her while in her room. We see Trish leaving the den for the one place where Steve could possibly be if he was indeed in the house - Jennifer's room to find Steve & hopefully Stacy as well, who is thought to have disappeared.
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DAVID (With a look of shock and surprise on his face) - Steve Farley - HERE??? Who would've thought?.....

MARCIE (Also with a shocked look on her face) - I know. It's a shock to me too.

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SCENE TWO - Jennifer's Room just before Trish walks in
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STACY - Well....Are either of you gonna answer me or am I gonna have to play guessing games?

JENNIFER (With a look of guilt on her face as Steve gives her an intimidating look) - I......I.....I let him in.

STACY (Looking at Jennifer) - Why am I not surprised?

JENNIFER - I didn't want to.

STACY (Sarcastically) - Ohhh Suuure Jen. You didn't want to. You "never" do. But you're DUMB & STUPID ENOUGH TO DO IT ANYWAY.

STEVE (Trying to offer an explaination of his own) - Well if you must know Stacy....

STACY (With authority) - SHUT UP!! I'm NOT even talking to you!

Trish walks in and looks squarely at Steve as she enters with her eyes bulging and her arms folded across her chest. She walks over to him as she says.....

TRISH (With a half-shocked look on her face) - Well.....Well.....Well. Look what the cat (turning to look at Jennifer) dragged in. Wouldn't have believed it if Brad hadn't said anything. Who's ship did you sail in on Steve? Greg's yacht?

TRISH (Before Steve could answer) - Ohh....WAIT....Or did you "stowaway" on it?

STEVE (Adamantly) - Greg NOR his yacht had ANYTHING WHATSOEVER to do with my arrival in town or being here.

STACY (Sarcastically with a smirk and rolling eyes) - I don't believe it. For once he actually says something that's TOTALLY believable.

TRISH - So Steve.....What REALLY brings you ALL THE WAY back to Cedarville from WHEREVER THE HELL you came from? Certainly couldn't be a new life. Afterall...Virtually everyone knows all the bridges you burned here.

Steve remains silent, thinking the question isn't even worthy of a dignified answer. Trish turns to Jennifer (who's still trying to maintain her look of innocence) as she says....

TRISH - And WHAT could've POSSIBLY prompted you to be so DUMB & STUPID as to LET HIM IN??? And PUH-LEAZE....Spare us the argument that you didn't, because we both know otherwise.

Stacy gives Jennifer a look of agreement with what Trish had just said. Jennifer is still trying to maintain her look of innocence, though it is weakening under the mounting pressure of Trish's contant barrage of questions and other comments which Jennifer knows Stacy has no defense for because Stacy is saying EXACTLY what Trish is, only Stacy is doing it with looks on her face

TRISH - I mean....WHAT WERE YOU THINKING??????????

TRISH (Continuing her verbal assault) - Do you have ANY idea the condition Brad is in right now????? HE IS A BASKET CASE.

Trish turns to look at Steve

TRISH - And YOU.......I can't begin to put into words how I feel about you. There's not a single word in the English language that PERFECTLY descrbes what I think of you. In fact, I don't believe there's a word in the English language that PERFECTLY describes what ANYONE IN CEDARVILLE outside of THE SLUT (once again turning to look at Jennifer and then back to Steve again) thinks of you.

STEVE - Are you through?

TRISH (Looking squarely into his face and toe-to-toe with him, almost mumbling and turning her head from side to side with a frown on her face) - Not even close.

STACY (Thinking she's seen and heard enough and looking at Steve) - I think it's time you leave Steve - NOW!

STEVE - And if I don't?

TRISH - Then I'll get David & Marcie to HAUL YOU ASS OUTTA HERE (now toe-to-toe with Steve herself) And FEED YOU TO THE WOLVES AT THE CITY JAIL - FOR TRESPASSING.

Stacy gives Steve a "Go Ahead - Call My Bluff" look while still standing toe-to-toe with him and looking sqaurely into his eyes with fire in hers

STEVE (Looking at Stacy and then at Trish, who was cheering Stacy on with her looks) - Well then.....We wouldn't want that, would we?

STEVE (Looking at Jennifer) I'll see you later?

JENNIFER (Looking anywhere but at Steve) - Don't count on it.

Stacy & Trish both smirk at Jennifer's response as if to show cynical disbelief as Steve walks out of the room, but not before getting looks from Stacy & Trish on his way out

STACY (Looking at Jennifer) - Now....As for YOU. I'm THROUGH supporting you. I'm THROUGH with lending you my shoulder to cry on each & every time you screw up. I'm THROUGH being USED by you. I've had it. Leo & I *GENEROUSLY* offered to host YOUR wedding here AND YOU BLEW IT. No more Jennifer. I've had it with you. I don't care WHAT you do anymore. You have but TWENTY MINUTES - STARTING RIGHT NOW - To be OUT of that dress and OUT OF THIS HOUSE. Understand?

Jennifer looks at Trish for sympathy, but gets none. In fact, Trish gives her even more demeaning looks in response thinking that Stacy is being MIGHTY generous in giving Jennifer the courtesy of being able to change clothes before leaving as opposed to throwing Jennifer out of the house while still in her bridal outfit.

JENNIFER (Reluctantly accepting her punishment) - Will you at least unzip the back of it for me?

Stacy responds by not only unzipping the zipper, but tearing it in her non-chalant attempt to help Jennifer out of the bridal dress

JENNIFER (Hearing the tearing noise) - You didn't have to RIP IT.

STACY (Non-chalantly) - Not MY problem Jennifer. YOU were the one who blew the chance at a decent married life. Not me.

Stacy walks out of the room followed by Trish

STACY (With disgust) - OOOOOOOOO......The things she does.

TRISH (Equally disgusted) - I know girl. I know. She just doesn't learn.

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SCENE THREE - In the den a few minutes later. Trish & Stacy have since returned and, at Brad's request, have told Rob to make the following announcement..........
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ROB - Ladies & Gentlemen.....As I'm sure you've probably gathered by now, there will be NO WEDDING today. We apologize for any inconvience this has caused. We know many of you came from long distances. We're prepared to address those issues with the plans that were originally outlined. However, we will still have the reception for those willing to stay. The caterers are setting up right now and we should be good to go with some FREE FOOD shortly. If you do not wish to stay or can't stay, we certainly understand. We love/like you anyways. Thank you for coming and once again, apologies for any inconvience this has caused anyone. Thank you.

GREG (To Stephanie) - Well....No wedding What do you say we blow this joint and go out to dinner? I hear there's a new restaurant in town that just opened up. Ever heard of the Fond Du Lac?

STEPHANIE - You've GOT to be kidding. Dinner - WITH ME? An old flame? ANYWHERE?

GREG - Sure. Why not? Ever heard of PLATONIC FRIENDSHIPS??? That's what I think of you as. A platonic friend.

Stephanie blushes

STEPHANIE (With a smile) - I'm flattered you even think of me that way. I hadn't even thought that way about you.

GREG (Laughing) - I know.

STEPHANIE - Wow.

GREG (Nudgingly) C'mon.....Just for ONE night?

STEPHANIE - Well I dunno.......I'll think about it.

GREG - Don't take too long.

LEO (Announcing to all in the room) - COME & GET IT. The food is ready.

The guests all line up, but Greg & Stephanie hold out, unsure if they'll even stick around. Meanwhile Jennifer emerges with her bridal dress in hand. She lays it down and attempts to get in line

TRISH (Spotting Jennifer trying to get in the food line) - What do you think you're doing?

JENNIFER - What does it look like I'm doing. I'm getting a bite to eat before I go.

Stacy walks up

STACY (With authority) Ohhhh....NO YOU AREN'T. You are LEAVING *NOW* Missy.

David & Marcie, two of Cedarville's finest detectives from the Cedarville PD, turn their heads

STACY (Continuing) YOU ruined the wedding. Brad is in the next room. And I'll be DAMNED if I'm gonna let you ruin WHAT'S LEFT of today and tonight by allowing YOU to remain here. Haven't you done enough damage for one day?

ROB (walking over with a smirk on his face as he faces Jennifer) - Maybe she feels like she needs to add salt to the wound.

STACY - Well either way Jennifer - YOU ARE NOT STAYING. You've worn out your welcome here. GET OUT NOW.

Stacy turns to look at David & Marcie. Marcie responds with a look that says she'll take care of Jennifer and will see to it she leaves the premises. Jennifer does nothing.

MARCIE - You heard her. Time to go Missy. Let's go.

Marcie grabs onto Jennifer's arm

JENNIFER (Demandingly) UNHAND ME. LET ME GO.

MARCIE (With authority) LOOK PRINCESS. You've got a choice. You can either leave on your own accord or come with us. Your choice.

MARCIE (Continuing) - Though I should warn you. If we have to drag you out of here by force, we won't be taking you home. WE WILL TAKE YOU TO JAIL. We don't wanna have to do that. We hate the paperwork. We'd also hate to see you with a criminal record. But if we have to forcibly remove you....

JENNIFER (Interrupting, but not happy) - ALRIGHT. I get the point. But I paid for part of this reception too, ya know.

MARCIE - NOT our problem Princess. Take it up with Stacy SOME OTHER TIME. Now, if you don't mind....

Marcie points to the door

MARCIE - See the door Jennifer? WALK THROUGH IT.

Jennifer picks up her dress and proceeds to leave, but not before one last parting shot

JENNIFER (Looking at Trish, who just happens to be nearby) - Tell Brad I still love him

TRISH - I'm NOT going to tell Brad ANYTHING - YOU FUCKIN' WHORE.

Jennifer shamefully and reluctantly leaves with tears streaking down her face

STACY (Feeling relieved) THANK GOD.

STEPHANIE - I thought she'd NEVER leave. Imagine HER NERVE. And to think the "loves" Brad.

Stephanie shakes her head as Trish and Stacy don't look the least bit surprised at ANYTHING Jennifer says or does. Leo walks over

LEO - The ONLY one she TRULY "loves" is HERSELF.

STEPHANIE - I doubt she even loves herself.

Trish & Stacy nod in complete agreement

LEO - By the way honey. Found that ladder our self-invited "guest" used. Took it down and put it in the garage where it belongs.

STACY - I thought it was IN the garage

LEO - So did I. But apparently the guys who put up the siding yesterday must've accidentally left it out.

Rob hears one of the phones ringing and answers it.

ROB (Talking to the person on the phone) Hello......Yes......Umm....Just a minute.

He puts the phone down and walks over to Leo

ROB - It's for you. It's a Seargeant Stafford from Fort Cedar. He says it urgent.

LEO (Looking at Stacy as she knows all too well what this call means) - I'll take it in the kitchen.

ROB - Okay

STEPHANIE (Asking curiously) - What could THEY want?

STACY - There's only ONE possible thing. TO PASS ALONG DEPLOYMENT ORDERS.

Stacy looks on as if what was left of her evening has just been flushed right down the drain

**********************************************************************************************************
ON THE NEXT EDITION OF Against The Storm
**********************************************************************************************************

* What does Fort Cedar want with Leo? Could they be Deployment Orders as Stacy fears?

* Will Brad confront Jennifer

* How will Courtney react to Greg's platonic "friendship" with Stephanie? Will she view it as a threat to her marriage with Greg?


ALL THIS & MUCH MUCH MORE ON THE NEXT EDITION OF "Against The Storm". :-)

Episode 02 - The Ghost Of Steve Farley

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SCENE ONE - The Main Wedding Area of Leo & Stacy's house (who are hosting Brad & Jen's wedding) where all the guests are sitting. It's in the back yard with a patio. There's a slight crisp chill in the late-fall November air as the guests all chatter and await the arrival of the bride and groom.
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"Looks to be pretty big crowd". Steve says.

"Yeah". Stephanie nods as she knew all along this would be the case.

"Shouldn't we like move everything indoors?" Leo asks. "It's getting pretty chilly out there" He adds.

"I totally agree with you, but Stace and Jen don't want it that way". Rob says. "I've even tried talking to Trish about it, but all she does is keep telling me to ask Stace since you and she are hosting this thing". He adds.

"Well....*I'm* gonna have a talk with my darling Stacy now". Leo adamantly says. "I don't think mother should be out in this weather at her age, especially for a wedding". He adds.

"Heh...Good luck getting THAT past Jennifer and her army". Rob says with a tone of sarcasm in his voice.

"I won't bother asking Jennifer. THE LAST thing SHE needs to worry about is something that WE OURSELVES should be handling". Leo says.

"What's the problem now guys"? Steve asks.

"What's the problem?" Leo sarcastically asks. "Dude....Have you even been outside?" He continues. "The weather is the problem. ITS TOO COLD out there for a wedding". Leo adds.

"I know..." Steve says as he rolls his eyes. "But that's what Jennifer wants. It's HER wedding. We have to abide by HER wishes NO MATTER HOW unreasonable they may seem". Steve says.

"Yeah...But do you honestly think it's a good idea to have mother out there at her age - FOR THIS?" Leo asks. "I don't. And since I'm the medic around here, I'm gonna do something about it." Leo adamantly says.

"Okay. But don't say I didn't warn you". Rob says

"Don't worry. I won't even mention it". Leo says.

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David & Marcie, Cedarville's finest detectives from the Cedarville PD, arrive, relieved in knowing that they haven't missed a thing yet.
***************************************************

"Hey David.....Hey Marcie". Rob says. "Don't bother taking off your coats unless you want to catch a cold". He sarcastically, but truthfully adds.

"Ohh....Why not?" David asks (Marcie looks a little surprised)

"Because the wedding is outside". Rob says.

"Outside? In THAT weather? You've got to be joking". David says.

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Rob gives David & Marcie a look that indicates he wishes he *was* joking as he leaves to mingle with other guests.
******************************************************************

"What kind of couple would subject their wedding guests to an ARCTIC wedding?" David asks to anyone who would listen.

"You forget David. JENNIFER is the bride of THIS wedding". Marcie sarcastically points out.

"Well I've heard of SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARFS but this is going a little too far if ya ask me". David says.

"I know" Marcie says.

"But look at it this way. At least we don't have her at the station here".

"Heh...True. But you know as well as I do that being married hasn't stopped her from hitting on every man she sees". David says.

"True". Marcie says.

"I was beginning to think the lieutenant was NEVER gonna let us out of there!". Marcie says, trying to change the subject.

"Had I known the wedding was gonna be out in THIS, I'd have never bothered to come". David says.

"Ohh quit your complaining and SUCK UP!". Marcie says.

"I'm not complaining" says David.

"Well you're at least being a WUSS then". Marcie says.

"Whatever". David says. "This reminds me of that stakeout we had last year. Remember?". He adds.

"You mean the stakeout where Troy got shot?" Marcie asks.

"Not that one, but it too comes to mind". David says.

"Whatever" Marcie says.

***************************************************************************
SCENE TWO - Just inside Leo & Stacy's house. Greg & Stephanie are talking
***************************************************************************

"So what have you and Courtney been up to the last several months?" Stephanie asks.

"Ohh.....Seeing the world. You know. London.....Paris.....The Carribean......The Virgin Islands. Been just about everywhere but the Middle East". Greg says.

"Really? WOW. I bet Courtney must've been DROOLING over all the photography chances she had". Stephanie says

"How so". Greg asks, paying only half-attention to what Stephanie had just said

"YOU KNOW. Big Ben. The Eiffel Tower. The lands of PARADISE...." Stephanie says while giving the look of trying to jog Greg's memory

"Ohh...Yeah....yeah". Greg says. "We have LOTS of pictures on board the yacht". He adds

"You sure don't seem very excited at it.". Stephanie says.

"It's not that. I'm just not that much interested in photography. That's all". Greg says "What have YOU been doing lately?". He adds

"Ohh....You know. Exposing crime, corruption, irresponsible corporate executives, anything else that rips of consumers.". Stephanie says.

"Ahh yes....All in an effort to save the world and grab the big headlines". Greg sarcastically says

"Well....I don't know about the saving the world part, but yes.....Basically the same job I've had".

"Now that we've had an election recently, I take it you've also been after crooked politicians recently too, eh?". Greg says with a joking smile

"Well that's mostly WCDR's part, but yeah....I've been called on do that lately too". "Funny thing is I've never quite been able to umm....'connect the dots' as it were. But I'm still trying." Stephanie says

"Remind me to be as far away from Cedarville as I can possibly get when you do, eh?" Greg sarcastically says.

"Okay". Stephanie says while half-giggling

"I wonder where Brad is" Greg says as he looks at his watch. "He should be coming out any minute now". Greg says "He said he needed to go frashen up before things got started. I think I'm gonna go check on him. Be right back" He adds.

"Okay....Sure".

***************************************************************************
SCENE THREE - Jennifer heads back to her room where Steve is waiting
***************************************************************************

"You have to leave" Jennifer frantically says.

"But Jen....I wanna be with you". Steve says.

"Don't you see? My hopes of marrying Brad are over!" Jennifer says, still frantic.

"You only LIKED Brad. You never LOVED him like you love me" Steve says.

You don't get it do you? I NEVER loved you."

"But just five minutes ago, you were quick to make love to me. In fact, you BEGGED me to make wild, passionate love to you. Now, look at you. You're worried that Brad will tell everyone else and before you know it, you've retained the reputation you've ALWAYS had. The reputation of being THE TOWN SLUT.

*******************************************************
Jennifer backhands Steve in the face
*******************************************************

"OUCH!" "What was THAT for?"

"YOU snuck onto Stace & Leo's property (i.e. THIS HOUSE). YOU found a ladder and climbed to my window....." Jennifer says.

"And YOU let me in." Steve says, intentionally interrupting Jennifer "And THAT is what Brad will no doubt assume and remember". He adds

"And to think IT WAS YOU who stood by me through my trial". Steve says "And when I left town to start over with a new slate, it was YOU who betrayed ME by....."

"I BETRAYED YOU ?????" Jennifer interrupted "I wasn't the one who suddenly left town to, as you put it, 'start over with a new slate'. I wanted to go with you, but YOU DUMPED ME!!" She adds. "What was I supposed to do? Wait till you came CRAWLING back to me begging for forgiveness?". She adds, now in tears. "GET OUT. GET OUT NOW". "I don't EVER wanna see you again". She says rather demandingly.

*****************************************************
Hearing all the shouting, Stacy walks in
*****************************************************

"What the hell is going on? Are you okay Jen?" Stacy asks, not having spotted Steve yet

******************************************************
Stacy then notices Steve and now has a look of shock on her face
******************************************************

"What THE HELL are YOU doing here? Stacy asks, still in shock

"Better yet....HOW did you get in here?" "I handled the invitation list and I *know* YOUR NAME wasn't on it". Stacy asks, demanding an answer

******************************************************
Jennifer tries to look innocent through her teary eyes, but Stacy sees right through it
******************************************************

"Or did you have a little 'help'?" Stacy asks as she scowls rather suspiciously at Jennifer as she taps her foot, puts her hands on her hips and awaits Steve's answer and wondering if David and/or Marcie are in the crowd somewhere outside.

********************************************************
SCENE FOUR - Inside the house. Greg is looking for Brad, but is joined by Trish, Leo, Rob, and mother Margaret.
********************************************************

"Hey Greg...Something wrong?" Trish asks

"Possibly". Greg answers. "You haven't seen the lucky groom for whom I'm supposed to be Best Man around anywhere, have you?"

"No." Leo says. "In fact, the last time I saw him, he had just left you. I gathered you and he were finalizing things". Leo adds.

**********************************************************
Trish, Leo & Rob all nod in agreement with Leo
**********************************************************

"Not really. But he did say he wanted to freshen up before things got started though. But that was some several minutes ago". Greg says

"Maybe he's still freshening up". Trish says

"Or maybe he got a case of COLD FEET". Rob jokingly said.

"Ohh....And like you - SOMEONE WHO'S NEVER BEEN MARRIED BEFORE - would know" Trish playfully says

***********************************************************
Rob tries to ad lib his way out of answering the question
***********************************************************

"Well anyway....Have any of you seen my wife around?" Leo asks

"Come to think of it....No". Greg says, remembering she and Leo were together earlier along with Rob and Stephanie

"Maybe they snuck out on us and got hitched" Rob says, trying to be a comedian

"Ohh....:P~~~~~~" Trish says as she sticks her tongue out at Rob in response to what he just said.

********************************************************
Brad appears, but not where Greg can see him
********************************************************

"Well....I think I had better find Brad and get an update as to when he might be ready" Greg says as everyone else looks at Brad with great concern

"Looks like you won't have to go very far" Trish says while at a loss as to why Brad is stumbling around

"Ohh?" Greg asks as he notices everyone looking over his shoulder

"MY GOD!" Greg says

******************************************************
Everyone rushes over to Brad's aid as he tries to catch his breath. Leo puts his Army Medic training to use by taking charge
******************************************************

"Grab that chair Trish" Leo commands, pointing to a chair (Trish complies)

"Take it easy Buddy. Just breathe nice and slow". Leo says as he guides Brad to the chair Trish put in place for him (Brad) to sit in.

******************************************************
Brad's condition is still lethargic and his breathing is VERY labored. He can barely talk
******************************************************

"Don't try to talk now. Just breathe

******************************************************
Leo grabs Margaret's oxygen tank hose and gently removes it from her head and puts it on Brad
******************************************************

"Leo.....WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!? For God's sake, that's mom's oxygen." Trish says in a freaked manner

"Brad needs it more than I do right now". Margaret says "I'll survive without it for the immediate time being". She adds in her usual New Yorker attitude

"Just breathe nice and slow buddy. Everything is going to be alright now". Leo nursingly says just as if Brad was a patient of his in a military helicopter in the Middle East.

"Yeah....Do what Leo says man" Rob says as he cheers Leo on.

*******************************************************
Slowly but surely, Brad catches his breath and can now talk. When Leo thinks Brad no longer needs the oxygen, he returns the hose back to Margaret. By this time, everyone who had been outside in the cold came inside only to find Brad in his current state. Rob sees the gathering crowd and attempts to play PR man by telling them he'll have an update as soon as he gets more information.
*******************************************************

"Now, what the hell happened" Trish asks

"Trish....Give him time to compose himself" Rob says

"It's okay man" Brad says, still weary from his experience

"Brad, you went to the bathroom to freshen up. What happened?" Greg asks with great concern

"You told me to go into the FIRST DOOR ON MY RIGHT, didn't you?" Brad asks, still trying to return to a normal feeling

"Yes. That's right. I believe that's what I said". Greg said

"Ohh....NO!" Trish says, knowing that the first door on Brad's right WAS NOT the bathroom

"Well.....I went inside that door and......"

*******************************************************
Brad starts to break down and cry
*******************************************************

"And WHAT Brad? Greg asks.

"I saw.......J.....J......J.......Jennifer......in her room.....WITH ANOTHER MAN.....(really crying now)"

"What were they doing?" Greg asks

(Trish fears the worst now)

"KI....KI....KISSING" Brad says as he struggles to get the word out.

"Ohh man" Greg says as he rolls his eyes

"Can you tell who this man was or who you thought you saw, Brad?" Leo asks

"It was.....It was......It was.....STEVE. I.....I.....I saw THE GHOST OF STEVE FARLEY". Brad says, crying heavily now as he becomes a basket case.

**********************************************************
Everyone in the house is now in a state of shock
**********************************************************

"I'm gonna go find Jennifer - And hopefully Stacy too" Trish says "God only knows what that man has done now". She adds.

"Hold on Trish.....Maybe it's not as bad as it seems. Let's not panic here alright." Greg says

"Yo Greg (waves hand in front of Greg's face)....We have an AX MURDERER in THIS house and YOU are telling me there's NO reason to hit the panic button?????" *HHHHHEEEELLLLLOOOO*". Trish says as she puts her fingers to her forehead and extends them outward while processing what she just heard and trying to come up with a rational reason not to panic

(Trish leaves the room headed for Jennifer's room. Greg looks like he's just clued in on a few things since he married Courtney and now lives on his yacht as Stephanie gives him a "RENT-A-CLUE" look before she joins Trish)

*********************************************************
ON THE NEXT EDITION OF Against The Storm:
********************************************************

* Steve has been caught, what will he do?

* Will Stacy buy Jennifer's innocence or will she finally become tired of supporting Jennifer every time she screws up?

* The Wedding Aftermath - What will happen to Brad & Jennifer

* ONE FINAL ROUND OF CHARACTER INTRODUCTIONS

* Will Greg & Stephanie rekindle their passion for one another or is what they have now just a one-night stand?

STAY TUNED TO THE NEXT DRAMATIC EPISODE :)