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SCENE ONE - The FonDuLac Hotel - Cassandra's Room
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Detectives David & Marcie Grant from the Cedarville Police Department are busy working the case of the (apparent) woman who's been harrassing people by claiming that she is the mother of a child fathered by men who are overseas serving in the military. Based on a tip in the form of a license plate no. provided to them by two uniformed officers, they have identified Cassandra as the renter of the vehicle to which the number is registered to. As such, she has now become the primary focus of their investingation.
As we pick up the scene, we see David & Marcie at Cassandra's Hotel Room door as she (Cassandra) looks on in shock.
CASSANDRA (still trying to figure out what's going on): I don't quite understand. (oepns door) Sure I guess
David & Marcie walk into the room.
CASSANDRA (continuing): What is this all about?
MARCIE: We are investigating a case of a woman who's allegedly calling wives of military service personnel up on the phone or visiting their homes claiming that they are the mother of a child fathered by their husband.
CASSANDRA (realizing how chilllingly close that is to her own situation): Oh my god. (curiously) But what does that have to do with me?
DAVID: Do you have a rental car?
CASSANDRA (still wanting an answer to her second question): Yeah.
DAVID: It wouldn't happen to be a 2005 Mazda XLS, would it?
CASSANDRA: I suppose so. I'm not good when it comes to the makes of cars.
DAVID: It wouldn't happen to have this license plate number on it, would it?
David shows her a slip of paper that has the license plate number of her rental car
CASSANDRA: I suppose so. It's not like I go looking for that when I rent or buy a car. (getting back to her earlier question) Again, what does your case have to do with me?
MARCIE: Your car was seen leaving the home of one of the apparent victims last night.
CASSANDRA (shocked): What? Ohh....no...no. That can't be. That can't possibly be me.
MARCIE: How long have you been in town?
CASSANDRA: Since last night.
DAVID: When did you get in?
CASSANDRA: Ohh....I don't know. About 8:00 or 8:30 PM I suppose.
MARCIE: And where did you go after you left the car rental parking lot?
CASSANDRA: I went to see Leo.
MARCIE: Leo?
CASSANDRA: Yes. He's in the military and we served in Baghdad together for awhile until he left. Then I found out I was pregnant with my son Christopher and then I left.
MARCIE: Was Leo there?
CASSANDRA: I was told no, but I encountered this bitch who said she was his wife or some such deal like that. Hell, I don't know. I didn't know who the fuck she was. I kept insisting on seeing Leo, but she and this other guy who I didn't even know from a fuckin' hole in the ground kept telling me I had to leave. They even threatened to call the police on me. I told them that Leo is Christopher's father and that I was there to introduce Christopher to Leo as Leo has a right to know he has a kid. For all I know, that bitch and that other guy could be having an affair behind Leo's back if she's even married to Leo. Why don't you ask that bitch I talked to last night. Maybe she's the one you're after.
David & Marcie look at each other as if to think they've found the suspect they're looking for. Open and shut case.
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SCENE TWO - Leo's Quarters - Baghdad, Iraq
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An angry and irate Gen. Breyton has just walked in on a fight involving Leo. As we pick up the scene, he is seen looking at Leo with an angry look on his face as he approaches him and grinds his teeth to get to the point of his visit
LEO (shaking and knowing he just got caught slugging Tony Romano): Sir?
GEN. BREYTON (To Tony & Tyrone): You two stand back.
Tony, still smarting from Leo's punch and checking for blood, steps back as does Tyrone
GEN. BREYTON (To Leo): I should add ASSAULT to what I'm about to tell you. But I'll be generous this time. Mostly because I don't want to go through any more paperwork, though even that is up to Lt. Romano. So I'll get right to the point McFadden.
Leo breaths a sigh of relief but is looking for the other shoe to drop
GEN. BREYTON (continuing): There's a transport plane due to arrive here at 0600 tomorrow morning. You will be on that plane. That means you will be at Baghdad International NO LATER than 0545. If you are not at the airport when that plane arrives, I will see to it that you are thrown onto that airplane even if I thave to thrown you on there myself. Do I make myself clear McFadden?
LEO (in a low voice): Yes sir
GEN. BREYTON (like a drill seargent): I can't hear you
LEO (almost yelling): Sir yes sir
GEN. BREYTON: That's more like it
Gen. Breyton now turns to address what he has recommended as disciplinary action for Leo
GEN. BREYTON: Now as to what, if any, disciplinary action, I am recommending that you be given a General Discharge. Though that.is subject to the review board's discretion. I should have you court matialed for lying to the the last line of defense against terrorists when you lied to the Cedarville PD. But it just so happens I got word from Washington that they, along with the Cedarville PD, are investigating such a case. I might add that this investigation was not initiated by Military Intelligence.
TONY: Who initiated it then Sir?
GEN. BREYTON: The Cedarville PD. (looking at Leo) Count yourself lucky McFadden. Damn lucky.
LEO (breathing another sigh of relief): I do sir. I do.
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SCENE THREE: Outside The Chippequah Courthouse
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Channel 4 Action News Investigative Reporter Stephanie Blanton is just wrapping up one of her live reports when an old friend of her, Ton Fenton, who is covering the trial for rival station Channel 12 walks up
STEPHANIE (looking into the camera and holding a Channel 4 microphone): And that's the latest from here. We're live in Chippequah, Stephanie Blanton, Channel 4 Action News. Guys back to you.
DEWAYNE (after a couple seconds): And we're off.
Stephanie lets the top of her mic drop as looks over at Tom
STEPHANIE (sounding like she normally does when greeting her friends): Heyyyy.
TOM (flirtatiously and smiling like he normally does): Hey yourself gorgeous.
STEPHANIE (curious): So, what brings you down here?
TOM: The same thing the brought you over from the hospital (Tom already knew Stephanie was in town to visit Jennifer at the hospital).
STEPHANIE (chuckling): Figures.
TOM: Heard about the story Mark from Channel 7 has planned involving your sister Jennifer.
STEPHANIE (fearful and suspicious): Don't tell you're planning to do a follow-up.
TOM: Well....No. But i also heard that you plan to try to stop it though.
STEPHANIE (seeing another argument coming and rolling her eyes in the back of her head): Ohh no. Not you too.....
TOM (now trying to plead Mark's case): No, but you've got to admit that if what Mark says is true and that Jennifer can make her own decisions, then don't you think you ought to let him air the story?
STEPHANIE (adamantly): No. She has NO MEMORY For Pete's Sake She's in NO condition to be making decisions for herself. to say nothing of the fact that the hospital released information about Jennifer to Mark and that Mark spoke to her doctor without the consent or knowledge of myself, her other sister Marcie or her husband. No, there's no fuckin' way that story's going to air unless Channel 7 wants to fork over lots of $$$ in legal costs.
TOM: How do you even know she can't make decisions for herself?
STEPHANIE: Tom, if you had seen my sister in the condition she was in when I saw her last night, there's no fuckin' way she could make that kind of decision for herself.
TOM: Well obviously that's news to her doctor then.
STEPHANIE: Did Mark send you over here to plead his case?
TOM: In a way.
STEPHANIE: Figures
TOM: I also came over to find out what you were planning for lunch today.
STEPHANIE (somewhat flirtatiously and smiling rather flatteringly): Well that I think we can discuss without me raising my voice or calling a prticular someone else who just happens to be on live TV a bunch of undesirable names
TOM: Well, okay. I'm told there's this nice little trendy restaurant just up the street.
STEPHANIE: Ohh really?
TOM: Yeah. I'm also told it just opened up too.
STEPHANIE: Well then....Sounds like you've got yourself a date.
TOM: Great. (Hearing the call from his photographer) Uhh...oh. Sounds like they're calling me.
STEPHANIE (very flirtatiously): How 'bout 11:30 then?
TOM (being equally flirtatious in return): Jot it down. Laters.
STEPHANIE: Bye.
Tom walks back to his live remote unit where he prepares to go on the air
******************
SCENE FOUR: Cedarville Courthouse
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The judge in Greg & Courtney's case has just called court back into session
BAILIFF (yelling as he sees the judge open the door to his chambers): ALL RISE
Everyone not already on their feet stands up
JUDGE: Be seated. Court is now back in session (bang of gavel). To say these tapes don't show a threat to the safety and well-being of the McFadden children by Mrs. McFadden would be blasphemous. To say they are authentic would also be blasphemous. Either way you look at it, this case is going to result in one nasty, ugly custody battle. And this divorce will be anything but a walk in the park.
The judge turns to Courtney McFadden
JUDGE: Ms. McFadden, based on what I saw on those tapes even at their unestablished face value, I am legally obligated to turn over custody of your children over to your husband. As such, ths court hereby orders that custody of the children in question will therefore be transferred to Mr. McFadden.
Greg lets out a silent cheer
COURTNEY'S ATTORNEY (interrupting the judge): Objection your honor
JUDGE: Noted, but if you'd let me finish what I was saying.....
Courtney's attorney sits down
JUDGE (continuing): Furthermore, due to the nature of the case, the court will hereby appoint an attorney to represent the children and their best interests. (now turning to Greg McFadden) Mr McFadden, don't think this will somehow be walk in the park for you either. The court will also refer the matter over to Social Services. That means that a Social Worker will visit your home regularly and will closely monitor how you interact with your children. Said Social Worker will also file a report with the court and will be subject to oral and/or depositional testimony. Furthermore, the tapes which the court acquired from you which I saw in my chambers will be subject to examination by a court-appointed authentication expert. IF these tapes can't be authenticated or, worse, are found to be forgeries, you don't want that. You do not want to be on my bad side as I will not hesitate to revert custody back to your wife and throw you in jail. Is that clear?
GREG: Yes your honor.
JUDGE (facing both Greg & Courtney): Furthermore, Ms. McFadden will have NO visitation rights whatsoever.
COURTNEY (suddenly gets up and hollering as she's crying): Your honor
JUDGE (To Courtney): Ms. McFadden, you are doing well by my deciding not to throw you in jail today. Don't give me a reason to change my mind.
Courtney reluctantly sits back down as her attorney gets up
COURTNEY'S ATTORNEY: We apologize your honor, however we do object on the issue of visitation and will appeal that ruling.
JUDGE: Apology accepted. You have ten days to file your appeal counsel.
COURTNEY'S ATTORNEY: We also want to be heard on the matter your honor.
JUDGE: Denied. You can let yourself be heard in appeals.
Courtney looks across the room at Greg with a face of hatred
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SCENE FIVE: Jennifer's Room - Chippequah Memorial Hospital
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It's now later in the day and Brad has just arrived for a visit. As we pick up the scene now, Jennifer is seen lying in bed reading a book
DR. MATHIESON (Upon entering Jennifer's room): Jennifer?
JENNIFER: Yes.
DR. MATHIESON: You have a visitor.
JENNIFER: Is it that TV reporter?
DR. MATHIESON: No. Not him. He says he's a friend of yours. Shall I let him in?
JENNIFER (feeling a little unsure of herself): Sure. I guess.
DR. MATHIESON: If you'd rather not see him, I'll send him away.
JENNIFER: No. That's fine. Send him in.
DR. MATHIESON: Okay.
Dr. Mathieson leaves. A minute later, Brad cautiously opens the door, not knowing what to expect.
BRAD: Hey there gorgeous.
JENNIFER (not remembering Brad at all): Do I know you?
BRAD (feeling awkward and answering the only way he knows how): Yeah. My name's Brad.
JENNIFER (feeling as though she's meeting Brad for the first time): Hi. I'm Jennifer.
BRAD: I know.
JENNIFER (getting a strange feeling which she can't quite comphrehend in her present condition): You do?
BRAD: Yeah. (feeling really awkward) Look, I feel rather awkward about this. Maybe this was a bad idea.
Brad starts to leave
JENNIFER (catchinjg Brad just before he leaves): No wait.
Brad turns around.
JENNIFER: Dr. Mathieson said you were a friend of mine. I want to know my past. Are you a part of it?
Brad just stands at the door looking at Jennifer, but doesn't have a clue how to answer her question
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SCENE SIX - Leo Quarters - Baghdad, Iraq
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Gen. Breyton prepares to leave, but notices Tyrone's porn DVD collection and gets and uses it to pop an idea. He picks up one of the DVD covers and looks at it.
GEN. BREYTON (To Tyrone rather chastisingly): You know Davis, you ought to put these away (showing him one of the covers). You might scare the ladies off.
TYRONE (trying not to laugh, but smiling): Yes sir.
Tony walks over and picks up one of the DVDs
TONY: Whoa....Mind if I borrow this one dude? I think I've got every one of them in this particular collection but this one.
TYRONE (non-chalantly): I don't care.
GEN. BREYTON (To Leo): You could something like this yourself, McFadden. At least it'd keep you out of trouble.
LEO (smiling): Yeah, but it doesn't beat the real thing though.
GEN. BREYTON: I know. That's what got you in trouble. (To Tony and Tyrone) Before you put those away Davis, I wanna talk to talk to the both of you.
Tony & Tyrone look at each other rather puzzlingly and shrug their shoulders
GEN. BREYTON (continuing): Let's take a walk.
Gen. Breyton leaves followed by Tony & Tyrone, who are still wondering what he has in mind
GEN BREYTON (now outside with Tony & Tyrone): My gut instinct tells me he has no intention of showing up at the airport tomorrow. I'd like to the two of you to lead the charge of rousting him out of bed or anywhere else on base and dragging his butt onto that plane.
TONY (surprised): Sir?
GEN. BREYTON: The two of you are his best buddies, right?
TYRONE: Yeah, but....
GEN. BREYTON: You'll think of something. Grab as many people as you'll need.
TONY: What about the MPs?
GEN. BREYTON: Grab them too. In fact, I think they'll take great joy in it. It'll give 'em a few laughs.
Tony & Tyrone both chuckle
TONY (still chuckling): Sir, what if he should get away or go AWOL or something?
GEN. BREYTON: Trust me. Doing either is not in his best interests. If he does, the assault against you alone would be enough to get him court martialed.
TONY (who'd love to get even with Leo for the punch he threw): Yes sir.
Gen. Breyton walks off. Just as Tony & Tyrone start to head back, an Iraqi man overhearing the conversation offers them a cab ride to the airport with Leo in tow tomorrow and drives a hard bargain, making it hard for Tyrone to refuse. Upon discussing the matter, he and Tony agree to use the man in their plan and tell him when to meet them.
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SCENE SEVEN: Architect's Conference - The FonDuLac Hotel
**********************
It's now lunchtime and Trish has arrived with a picnic basket, hoping to lure Michael away
TRISH (just as Michael arrives): Hey there sweetie.
MICHAEL: Hey yourself babe.
The two exchange a little kiss
TRISH (swooning and smiling): I was kinda hoping I'd lure you away.
MICHAEL: Honey, I'd love to. But we have this speaker coming up. And lunch is provided.
Trish looks somewhat rejected
MICHAEL (reaching a compromise): Look, tell you what. Picture this. You. Me. The Solar Room at The FonDuLac under the stars
TRISH (realizing how romantic that would be and smiling): Dinner?
MICHAEL (also smiling): Yeah.
TRISH: I'd love it.
MICHAEL: Good. Pick you up at 8:00 then?
TRISH (smiling and swooning): It's a date.
Steve Farley apporaches
STEVE (sarcastically): Care to take me out too? Surely you must remember me.
MICHAEL: How can I not? You were the reason I left town in the first place.
STEVE: Could've fooled me. Especially considering that you're Diane's ex and you were the one who KILLED her.
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On THE NEXT Edition Of AGAINST THE STORM
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* Steve's just accused Michael of Diane's murder. How will Michael react?
* David & Marcie visit Stacy as they continue their investigation.
* Courtney vows revenge to get custody of the kids once again.
* Stephanie continues to confront Mark about his planned story on Jennifer for Channel 7 and tries to make plans to stop it from airing.
* Cassandra plots her next move.
* Tony & Tyrone prepare to drag Leo to the airport.
Don't miss the next exciting episode.
See you all next time. :-)
This time is Copyright 2005 Pat Cook & Jeeper One Media - All Rights Reserved
Friday, February 11, 2005
Friday, February 4, 2005
Episode 14 - Leo Loses His Temper
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SCENE ONE - Leo's Quarters - Baghdad, Iraq
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Tyrone had just came in to get his stuff, but decided he's make a last ditch effort to get through to Leo by trying the only thing he hadn't yet - Getting in his face.
LEO (beginning to feel threatened): What the hell do you mean by that?
TYRONE (adamant but explaining himself): You know just exactly what I mean by that.
Tyrone walks over to his stuff where a picture of his wife Julia is. He picks it up and shows it to Leo
TYRONE: See the picture of this girl?
LEO: How I can not? She looks gorgeous.
TYRONE: Yeah she does. No one knows that better than me. But you see man, unlike you, I know I'm going home to my wife.
LEO: You came here just to say that?
TYRONE: Naah man. I came here to show you what you've blown
Leo looks as though he thinks he's about to endure yet another round of torture
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SCENE TWO - Outside The Chippequah Courthouse
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Stephanie has just wandered over to where Channel 7 reporter Mark Devereaux, who had just ended a live report, is standing after learning that he plans to air a follow-up story on Jennifer
MARK (acting cheerful): Well....Top O' The Morning Stephanie.
STEPHANIE (not the least bit amused or in the mood): Don't patronize me Mark. You know why I'm here.
MARK (trying to act stumped and clueless): Really?
STEPHANIE: Yes. Does your planned story with my sister Jennifer ring a few bells?
MARK (acting as though his memory was just jogged): Ohh....That little thing.
STEPHANIE (sarcastically mocking him): Yes....That little thing.
DEWAYNE (yelling at Stephanie from the remote unit): Stephanie.....Eight minutes.
MARK (hearing Dewayne's call and wanting to avoid a confrontation): Shouldn't you be getting ready to go on the air?
STEPHANIE (not falling for Mark's trick): That can wait.
MARK: Look Stephanie....
STEPHANIE (getting to the point): Who the fuckin' hell do you think you are? Who's your source at the hospital? And just what right do you think you fuckin' have to get information on my sister? Neither I nor my sister or my brother signed anything to allow the hospital to release information on Jennifer.
MARK: Jennifer did.
STEPHANIE (looking shocked and wondering what he's talking about): What??
MARK: Her doctor tells me that despite her obvious condition, she's perfectly capable of making her own decisions.
STEPHANIE (looking really surprised & pissed now): Mark....HELLO.....She has amnesia for God's sake. She's in no condition to be exploited especially by someone the likes of you.
DEWAYNE (again yelling from the remote unit): Steph....Five minutes.
Stephanie ignores Dewayne even though she hears him
MARK (looking surpised): Exploited? Stephanie, the only way I plan to spin this is as a human interest story.
DEWAYNE (sounding really worried now): Steph...Four minutes. C'mon. You'd better get over here.
STEPHANIE (knowing she has to go): I have to go, but this isn't over yet. Not by a long shot.
MARK: As far as I'm concerned, it is. Her doctor says she's perfectly capable of making her own decisions and she's agreed to do an interview. And since she signed the release herself, I really don't see the problem with it. Now, you tell me where the ethics issue is.
DEWAYNE: Steph.....
STEPHANIE (frustrated at Mark): You're disgusting.
Stephanie walks back to the Channel 4 live remote unit and prepares to go on the air as Mark shakes his head.
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SCENE THREE - Cedarville International Airport - Acme Car Rental Agency
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Detectives David & Marcie Grant from the Cedarville PD are investigating the various reports the PD has received about a female claiming to be the mother of a child fathered by someone in the Armed Forces in Iraq
CAR AGENCY COUNTER CLERK: May I help you?
DAVID (flashing his badge as Marcie does the same): We're here on official business.
CLERK: I'll do what I can to help. What do you need?
MARCIE: Do you have a 2005 Mazda XLS with this licence plate number?
Marcie shows the number to the clerk.
CLERK: I wouldn't know, but I'll look it up though.
The clerk enters the number into her computer and retrieves the record she has.
CLERK: It appears we do, but I show that it's currently rented.
DAVID: We need to know who the renter is.
CLERK (looking disappointed): I'm afraid I can't give you that information without a warrant of some kind.
DAVID (pulling out a $20 in an effort to emprovise by trying to make a score): Would this help?
The clerk is tempted to accept it, but decides the better of it
CLERK: I'm not that cheap.
DAVID (disappointed, but not surprised): Well then, I guess we'll just have to return with a warrant then.
CLERK (candidly): I guess you will.
CLERK (continued): Anything else I can help you with?
DAVID (dsappointed): Nope. We'll be back.
David & Marcie leave the counter
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SCENE FOUR - Cedarville Courthouse
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Greg & Courtney's divorce hearing has just begun and Greg's attorney, Mitchell Rogers, is trying to introduce Greg's videotapes into court as evidence
COURTNEY'S ATTORNEY: Look Your Honor, they've tried this before. They've tried painting my client as an unfit mother. And look what it got 'em. They wound up leaving the courtroom with their tails tucked between their legs.
MITCHELL: Your Honor, this is new evidence. It has never been introduced before. We have a right to be heard on this.
JUDGE: Approach the bench.
Mitchell and Courtney's attorney both comply with the judge's request
JUDGE: Alright Mr. Rogers, just what is this new evidence.
MITCHELL: They're videotapes Your Honor.
Courtney's attorney rolls his eyes into the back of his head
COURTNEY'S ATTORNEY (acting as though he's reminding the judge): Your Honor, tapes can be doctored.
JUDGE: I'm well aware of that counselor. However if these tapes provide any evidentary proof of Defense Council's accusations, this court would be remiss if it didn't consider it.
COURTNEY'S ATTORNEY: Your Honor....
JUDGE: As such, I will view these tapes in my chambers and return with my decision.
COURTNEY'S ATTORNEY: You can't be serious....
The judge looks at Courtney's attorney as if to say he is serious
COURTNEY'S ATTORNEY (throwing his arms up in the air, but convinced the tapes are doctored): Okay....
JUDGE: When we end this, court will stand in recess pending my return. Mr. Rogers, I expect you to hand the tapes over to the court clerk who will then in turn bring them to me.
MITCHELL: No problem sir. We have the tapes here.
JUDGE: Good. In that case, step back.
The two lawyers comply
JUDGE: Defense Council is instructed to turn over the evidence they wish to introduce to the court. I will then view it in the privacy of my chambers where I will make my decision as to whether or not the tapes are admissable.
COURTNEY'S ATTORNEY (standing up): Your Honor....Objection.
JUDGE: Noted Council
Courtney's attorney sits back down.
JUDGE: If there's no other objection, court stands in recess.
The judge waits for a few seconds, but hears nothing. He then bangs the gavel to signal the call to recess
BAILIFF: All rise.
Everyone rises as the judge leaves
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SCENE FIVE - Leo's Quarters - Baghdad, Iraq
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LEO: Look....I don't need you starting in on me too. It's bad enough I got Gen. Breyton on my back
TYRONE: Me starting in on you is exactly what you need man.
LEO: What's that supposed to mean?
TYRONE: You're a damn coward. You can't even tell your wife the truth. You don't even have any fuckin' clue what you're doin' to your wife. I feel sorry for her. And on top of that, you lied to her and the cops.
Leo looks surprised as he wonders how Tyrone found out about the incident at the Comm. Center
TYRONE (continuing): Whoa. You don't think I don't know what happened at the Comm. Center?
LEO (knowing the whole base must know by now and uttering to himself): Ohh fuckin' shit.
TYRONE: It's all over base dude.
LEO (thinking he's talking to himself): That private couldn't keep his fuckin' shut, could he? He just had to blabber it all over base.
TYRONE: Yeah. I suppose you could blame it on on him. Whatever. But still, you don't get it, do you?
Lt. Anthony (e.g. Tony) Romano walks in
TONY: Ohh....Sorry. Just came in to get my stuff. I'll come back.
TYRONE: 'Tis okay man. Just talkin' to Leo dude.
TONY: Why do you even bother man? Talkin' to him is like talkin' to a brick wall.
LEO (To Tony): C'mon man.
TONY (walking up to his face): No, make that a lying, cheating, scheming, son of a bitch brick wall who's more afraid of his wife than he is of bullets and mortar fire.
Leo punches Tony in the face just as Gen. Breyton walks in. Tony falls to the floor
GEN. BREYTON (To Leo): That will be enough.
Tony gets up, smarting from the punch he got from Leo
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SCENE SIX - Brad's Apartment
************************
Brad is seen watching the morning news on Channel 4 as he prepares for his trip to Jennifer's apartment when he gets a knock on the door. On the other side of the door is Trish & Michael, who, at Trish's insistence, have been making the rounds as Trish re-introduces everyone to Michael
BRAD: Hey.
TRISH: Hey yourself. Good morning. Headed out?
BRAD (scratching his head): Uhh...I'm about to. Come on in.
TRISH: Thanks
Trish & Michael walk inside Brad's apartment
TRISH: We'll only be a few minutes. I'd like you meet someone.
BRAD (pointing to Michael): Him?
Trish smiles
TRISH: Do you remember Michael Carlotti?
BRAD (feeling as though he just got surprised): Holy fuckin' shit. You're Michael?
MICHAEL (scratching his head): Uhh....Last time I checked. Yes.
BRAD (shaking Michael's hand and still feeling surrpised): How long has it been? Y...Y....You've changed.
MICHAEL (trying to downplay the whole thing): Uhh....It's been awhile. And yes, I've changed. But looking at you, you've changed too. Last time I saw you, you were in....like....High School. Weren't you?
BRAD: Uhh....Something like that. Wanna beer? Got a few.
MICHAEL: Uhh....Well no. Actually I have a meeting I need to be getting to in a few minutes. Can I take a rain check?
BRAD: Here ya go.
Brad hands Michael a blank piece of paper
MICHAEL (chuckling): Uhh....Looks like rubber to me. But yeah, I'll take it.
TRISH: Say hey....Have you heard anything from David, Marcie, or Stephanie on Jennifer yet?
BRAD: Spoke with David last night. I assume Marcie was with him As for Stephanie.....
Brad, Trish and Michael turn to the TV where Stephanie can be seen reporting from Chippequah
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SCENE SEVEN - The FonDuLac Hotel
****************************
David & Marcie got the warrant to get the information they needed from the Car Rental agency and are now about to confront Cassandra
HOTEL CLERK: Can I help you?
MARCIE: We're here on official police business
David & Marcie flash their badges
HOTEL CLERK: Uhh....Okay. How can I help you?
DAVID: Do you have a Cassandra Whitmore registered here?
HOTEL CLERK: Lemme look it up.
The clerk looks up Cassandra's name on the computer and finds the information he needs
HOTEL CLERK (continues): Yes we do.
MARCIE: Great What's her room number
The clerk looks reluctant to divulge that information, but David brandishes a warrant addressed to the hotel
DAVID: We have a warrant if you need assistance.
David hands the warrant to the clerk
HOTEL CLERK: Uhh....Just a minute.
The clerk places a phone call summoning his supervisor to the front desk
HOTEL CLERK (To His Supervisor): Uhh...These people handed me this warrant and are seeking the room number of one of our guests.
The Supervisor examines the warrant and discovers it's valid and instructs the clerk to provide them with any requested information.
HOTEL CLERK: The room number is 613. You can take these elevators (pointing to the main elevators).
DAVID: Thank you.
Meanwhile in Cassandra's room, Cassandra has just finished changing Christopher's diaper and has just sat back down on the sofa when the there's a knock on the door. She gets up to answer it, but is a little surprised since she's not expecting anyone
CASSANDRA (opening the door just enough to see David & Marcie on the other side): Yes. Can I help you?
MARCIE: Are you Cassandra Whitmore?
CASSANDRA (curious): Who's asking?
MARCIE: I'm Lt. Marcie Grant and this is my partner Lt. David Grant. We're from the Cedarville Police Department. May we come in?
David & Marcie show their badges as Cassandra is shocked and surprised and left wondering what she did to get the attention of the police
*****************************************
On THE NEXT Edition Of AGAINST THE STORM
*****************************************
* Brad joins the effort in helping Jennifer regain her memory. Will she remember their argument the day she disappeared?
* David & Marcie confront Casandra about her visit to Stacy's house
* The judge finishes reviewing the tapes. Is Courtney's goose cooked or does Greg even have a case?
* Stephanie continues to confront Mark about his planned story on Jennifer for Channel 7 and tries to make plans to stop it from airing.
* Steve gets wind that Michael is back in town and reminds him of the past.
* Gen. Breyton lowers the boom on Leo.
Don't miss the next exciting episode.
See you all next time. :-)
This time is Copyright 2005 Pat Cook & Jeeper One Media - All Rights Reserved
SCENE ONE - Leo's Quarters - Baghdad, Iraq
*******************
Tyrone had just came in to get his stuff, but decided he's make a last ditch effort to get through to Leo by trying the only thing he hadn't yet - Getting in his face.
LEO (beginning to feel threatened): What the hell do you mean by that?
TYRONE (adamant but explaining himself): You know just exactly what I mean by that.
Tyrone walks over to his stuff where a picture of his wife Julia is. He picks it up and shows it to Leo
TYRONE: See the picture of this girl?
LEO: How I can not? She looks gorgeous.
TYRONE: Yeah she does. No one knows that better than me. But you see man, unlike you, I know I'm going home to my wife.
LEO: You came here just to say that?
TYRONE: Naah man. I came here to show you what you've blown
Leo looks as though he thinks he's about to endure yet another round of torture
************************
SCENE TWO - Outside The Chippequah Courthouse
************************
Stephanie has just wandered over to where Channel 7 reporter Mark Devereaux, who had just ended a live report, is standing after learning that he plans to air a follow-up story on Jennifer
MARK (acting cheerful): Well....Top O' The Morning Stephanie.
STEPHANIE (not the least bit amused or in the mood): Don't patronize me Mark. You know why I'm here.
MARK (trying to act stumped and clueless): Really?
STEPHANIE: Yes. Does your planned story with my sister Jennifer ring a few bells?
MARK (acting as though his memory was just jogged): Ohh....That little thing.
STEPHANIE (sarcastically mocking him): Yes....That little thing.
DEWAYNE (yelling at Stephanie from the remote unit): Stephanie.....Eight minutes.
MARK (hearing Dewayne's call and wanting to avoid a confrontation): Shouldn't you be getting ready to go on the air?
STEPHANIE (not falling for Mark's trick): That can wait.
MARK: Look Stephanie....
STEPHANIE (getting to the point): Who the fuckin' hell do you think you are? Who's your source at the hospital? And just what right do you think you fuckin' have to get information on my sister? Neither I nor my sister or my brother signed anything to allow the hospital to release information on Jennifer.
MARK: Jennifer did.
STEPHANIE (looking shocked and wondering what he's talking about): What??
MARK: Her doctor tells me that despite her obvious condition, she's perfectly capable of making her own decisions.
STEPHANIE (looking really surprised & pissed now): Mark....HELLO.....She has amnesia for God's sake. She's in no condition to be exploited especially by someone the likes of you.
DEWAYNE (again yelling from the remote unit): Steph....Five minutes.
Stephanie ignores Dewayne even though she hears him
MARK (looking surpised): Exploited? Stephanie, the only way I plan to spin this is as a human interest story.
DEWAYNE (sounding really worried now): Steph...Four minutes. C'mon. You'd better get over here.
STEPHANIE (knowing she has to go): I have to go, but this isn't over yet. Not by a long shot.
MARK: As far as I'm concerned, it is. Her doctor says she's perfectly capable of making her own decisions and she's agreed to do an interview. And since she signed the release herself, I really don't see the problem with it. Now, you tell me where the ethics issue is.
DEWAYNE: Steph.....
STEPHANIE (frustrated at Mark): You're disgusting.
Stephanie walks back to the Channel 4 live remote unit and prepares to go on the air as Mark shakes his head.
*************************
SCENE THREE - Cedarville International Airport - Acme Car Rental Agency
*************************
Detectives David & Marcie Grant from the Cedarville PD are investigating the various reports the PD has received about a female claiming to be the mother of a child fathered by someone in the Armed Forces in Iraq
CAR AGENCY COUNTER CLERK: May I help you?
DAVID (flashing his badge as Marcie does the same): We're here on official business.
CLERK: I'll do what I can to help. What do you need?
MARCIE: Do you have a 2005 Mazda XLS with this licence plate number?
Marcie shows the number to the clerk.
CLERK: I wouldn't know, but I'll look it up though.
The clerk enters the number into her computer and retrieves the record she has.
CLERK: It appears we do, but I show that it's currently rented.
DAVID: We need to know who the renter is.
CLERK (looking disappointed): I'm afraid I can't give you that information without a warrant of some kind.
DAVID (pulling out a $20 in an effort to emprovise by trying to make a score): Would this help?
The clerk is tempted to accept it, but decides the better of it
CLERK: I'm not that cheap.
DAVID (disappointed, but not surprised): Well then, I guess we'll just have to return with a warrant then.
CLERK (candidly): I guess you will.
CLERK (continued): Anything else I can help you with?
DAVID (dsappointed): Nope. We'll be back.
David & Marcie leave the counter
***************************
SCENE FOUR - Cedarville Courthouse
***************************
Greg & Courtney's divorce hearing has just begun and Greg's attorney, Mitchell Rogers, is trying to introduce Greg's videotapes into court as evidence
COURTNEY'S ATTORNEY: Look Your Honor, they've tried this before. They've tried painting my client as an unfit mother. And look what it got 'em. They wound up leaving the courtroom with their tails tucked between their legs.
MITCHELL: Your Honor, this is new evidence. It has never been introduced before. We have a right to be heard on this.
JUDGE: Approach the bench.
Mitchell and Courtney's attorney both comply with the judge's request
JUDGE: Alright Mr. Rogers, just what is this new evidence.
MITCHELL: They're videotapes Your Honor.
Courtney's attorney rolls his eyes into the back of his head
COURTNEY'S ATTORNEY (acting as though he's reminding the judge): Your Honor, tapes can be doctored.
JUDGE: I'm well aware of that counselor. However if these tapes provide any evidentary proof of Defense Council's accusations, this court would be remiss if it didn't consider it.
COURTNEY'S ATTORNEY: Your Honor....
JUDGE: As such, I will view these tapes in my chambers and return with my decision.
COURTNEY'S ATTORNEY: You can't be serious....
The judge looks at Courtney's attorney as if to say he is serious
COURTNEY'S ATTORNEY (throwing his arms up in the air, but convinced the tapes are doctored): Okay....
JUDGE: When we end this, court will stand in recess pending my return. Mr. Rogers, I expect you to hand the tapes over to the court clerk who will then in turn bring them to me.
MITCHELL: No problem sir. We have the tapes here.
JUDGE: Good. In that case, step back.
The two lawyers comply
JUDGE: Defense Council is instructed to turn over the evidence they wish to introduce to the court. I will then view it in the privacy of my chambers where I will make my decision as to whether or not the tapes are admissable.
COURTNEY'S ATTORNEY (standing up): Your Honor....Objection.
JUDGE: Noted Council
Courtney's attorney sits back down.
JUDGE: If there's no other objection, court stands in recess.
The judge waits for a few seconds, but hears nothing. He then bangs the gavel to signal the call to recess
BAILIFF: All rise.
Everyone rises as the judge leaves
***********************************
SCENE FIVE - Leo's Quarters - Baghdad, Iraq
***********************************
LEO: Look....I don't need you starting in on me too. It's bad enough I got Gen. Breyton on my back
TYRONE: Me starting in on you is exactly what you need man.
LEO: What's that supposed to mean?
TYRONE: You're a damn coward. You can't even tell your wife the truth. You don't even have any fuckin' clue what you're doin' to your wife. I feel sorry for her. And on top of that, you lied to her and the cops.
Leo looks surprised as he wonders how Tyrone found out about the incident at the Comm. Center
TYRONE (continuing): Whoa. You don't think I don't know what happened at the Comm. Center?
LEO (knowing the whole base must know by now and uttering to himself): Ohh fuckin' shit.
TYRONE: It's all over base dude.
LEO (thinking he's talking to himself): That private couldn't keep his fuckin' shut, could he? He just had to blabber it all over base.
TYRONE: Yeah. I suppose you could blame it on on him. Whatever. But still, you don't get it, do you?
Lt. Anthony (e.g. Tony) Romano walks in
TONY: Ohh....Sorry. Just came in to get my stuff. I'll come back.
TYRONE: 'Tis okay man. Just talkin' to Leo dude.
TONY: Why do you even bother man? Talkin' to him is like talkin' to a brick wall.
LEO (To Tony): C'mon man.
TONY (walking up to his face): No, make that a lying, cheating, scheming, son of a bitch brick wall who's more afraid of his wife than he is of bullets and mortar fire.
Leo punches Tony in the face just as Gen. Breyton walks in. Tony falls to the floor
GEN. BREYTON (To Leo): That will be enough.
Tony gets up, smarting from the punch he got from Leo
************************
SCENE SIX - Brad's Apartment
************************
Brad is seen watching the morning news on Channel 4 as he prepares for his trip to Jennifer's apartment when he gets a knock on the door. On the other side of the door is Trish & Michael, who, at Trish's insistence, have been making the rounds as Trish re-introduces everyone to Michael
BRAD: Hey.
TRISH: Hey yourself. Good morning. Headed out?
BRAD (scratching his head): Uhh...I'm about to. Come on in.
TRISH: Thanks
Trish & Michael walk inside Brad's apartment
TRISH: We'll only be a few minutes. I'd like you meet someone.
BRAD (pointing to Michael): Him?
Trish smiles
TRISH: Do you remember Michael Carlotti?
BRAD (feeling as though he just got surprised): Holy fuckin' shit. You're Michael?
MICHAEL (scratching his head): Uhh....Last time I checked. Yes.
BRAD (shaking Michael's hand and still feeling surrpised): How long has it been? Y...Y....You've changed.
MICHAEL (trying to downplay the whole thing): Uhh....It's been awhile. And yes, I've changed. But looking at you, you've changed too. Last time I saw you, you were in....like....High School. Weren't you?
BRAD: Uhh....Something like that. Wanna beer? Got a few.
MICHAEL: Uhh....Well no. Actually I have a meeting I need to be getting to in a few minutes. Can I take a rain check?
BRAD: Here ya go.
Brad hands Michael a blank piece of paper
MICHAEL (chuckling): Uhh....Looks like rubber to me. But yeah, I'll take it.
TRISH: Say hey....Have you heard anything from David, Marcie, or Stephanie on Jennifer yet?
BRAD: Spoke with David last night. I assume Marcie was with him As for Stephanie.....
Brad, Trish and Michael turn to the TV where Stephanie can be seen reporting from Chippequah
****************************
SCENE SEVEN - The FonDuLac Hotel
****************************
David & Marcie got the warrant to get the information they needed from the Car Rental agency and are now about to confront Cassandra
HOTEL CLERK: Can I help you?
MARCIE: We're here on official police business
David & Marcie flash their badges
HOTEL CLERK: Uhh....Okay. How can I help you?
DAVID: Do you have a Cassandra Whitmore registered here?
HOTEL CLERK: Lemme look it up.
The clerk looks up Cassandra's name on the computer and finds the information he needs
HOTEL CLERK (continues): Yes we do.
MARCIE: Great What's her room number
The clerk looks reluctant to divulge that information, but David brandishes a warrant addressed to the hotel
DAVID: We have a warrant if you need assistance.
David hands the warrant to the clerk
HOTEL CLERK: Uhh....Just a minute.
The clerk places a phone call summoning his supervisor to the front desk
HOTEL CLERK (To His Supervisor): Uhh...These people handed me this warrant and are seeking the room number of one of our guests.
The Supervisor examines the warrant and discovers it's valid and instructs the clerk to provide them with any requested information.
HOTEL CLERK: The room number is 613. You can take these elevators (pointing to the main elevators).
DAVID: Thank you.
Meanwhile in Cassandra's room, Cassandra has just finished changing Christopher's diaper and has just sat back down on the sofa when the there's a knock on the door. She gets up to answer it, but is a little surprised since she's not expecting anyone
CASSANDRA (opening the door just enough to see David & Marcie on the other side): Yes. Can I help you?
MARCIE: Are you Cassandra Whitmore?
CASSANDRA (curious): Who's asking?
MARCIE: I'm Lt. Marcie Grant and this is my partner Lt. David Grant. We're from the Cedarville Police Department. May we come in?
David & Marcie show their badges as Cassandra is shocked and surprised and left wondering what she did to get the attention of the police
*****************************************
On THE NEXT Edition Of AGAINST THE STORM
*****************************************
* Brad joins the effort in helping Jennifer regain her memory. Will she remember their argument the day she disappeared?
* David & Marcie confront Casandra about her visit to Stacy's house
* The judge finishes reviewing the tapes. Is Courtney's goose cooked or does Greg even have a case?
* Stephanie continues to confront Mark about his planned story on Jennifer for Channel 7 and tries to make plans to stop it from airing.
* Steve gets wind that Michael is back in town and reminds him of the past.
* Gen. Breyton lowers the boom on Leo.
Don't miss the next exciting episode.
See you all next time. :-)
This time is Copyright 2005 Pat Cook & Jeeper One Media - All Rights Reserved
Wednesday, February 2, 2005
Episode 13 - The Return Of Michael Carlotti
*****************
SCENE ONE - Stephanie Hotel Room in Chippequah
*****************
It's the dawn of a new day in Cedarville and Stephanie Blanton, Investigative Reporter for WCDR-TV Channel 4 is seen in her hotel room in nearby Chippequah talking to her boss on the phone.
"Can't you get someone else down here to cover it, like someone who lives here".
"Well geez Steph, you've been down there for so long, you're practically considered a resident there", Roger Clayborn, her boss at the station says to Stephanie over the phone.
"Har dee har har. Funny Roger", Stpehanie says
"Steph....Seriously....No joke. I really need you to cover this trial", Roger says "Besides, you know if it wasn't for you and the hard work you put into the investigation which lead to this trial, it wouldn't be happening in the first place", Roger says
Stephanie gives a look that basically says "I know Roger. You don't have to remind me."
"You don't want all that work flushed down the drain by a bunch of carefree penny-pinching lawyers, do you?", Roger asks
"Of course not", Stephanie says, resigning herself to the fact she may well be assigned by Roger to cover the trial "But I wasn't exactly expecting my sister to suddenly fall off the face of the earth for several months either"
"I know Steph. But life's rough. Life's tough> But I need someone down there to cover that trial and you know the power trip Channel 7 gets when either us or Channel 12 don't show up to cover stories", Roger says
"Of course. They're always quick to rub it in our faces as they prove yet again their tabloid approach to news leads to breaking stories even though we're tops and theiy're dead last in the ratings", Stephanie says
"Well then.....Unless you want to see another one of those ads, I trust you'll be at the courthouse this morning when court begins?", Roger asks
"Yeah I suppose", Stephanie says "Tell the live unit crew I'll meet 'em there", she adds
"That's the spirit", Roger said "See ya later", he added
"Yeah....Laters", Stephanie responds
"And Top O' The Morning to you too", she adds as she rolls her eyes and hangs up the phone just as the buzzer rings. Stephanie goes to answer the door where she finds David & Marcie standing. She lets them in
"Good Morning", David said
Stephanie looks at David as if she was wondering what tropical paradise island he and Marcie came from.
"It's a beautiful morning alright", Stephanie said "That is if you don't mind be reminded of a certain obligation better known as your job", she adds
Marcie, who entered the room with a cup of coffee, looks as though she's gagging on the stuff as she attempts to respond to Stephanie's last comment.
"We got 'reminded' of ours too", David says as Marcie catches her breath "In fact, we're going to have to head back to Cedarville if....and I quote we want to keep our jobs end quote", he added.
"Well, I just got roped into doing mine down here", Stephanie said "You know that big trial that's supposed to be getting underway today?", she added
"Yeah", Marcie said, now recouperated from her earlier incident.
"Guess who's covering it for Channel 4", Stephanie said
David tries not to laugh at Stephanie's predictament, but winds up letting out a little chuckle anyhow
******************************
SCENE TWO - Trish's Apartment
******************************
Trish is seen drinking some orange juice when the doorbell rings. She goes to answer it.
"Good Morning", Michael says as he smiles
"Same to you", Trish says as she smiles and opens the door so he can come in "Come on in"
"Thanks", Michael said "Same ol' beautiful place I see", he added
"Just couldn't find it in me to give it up", Trish says "Want some breakfast?, she asks
"Nah...I ate before leaving the hotel", Michael said "I'll take some coffee though", he added
"Comin' right up", Trish says, knowing just how Michael likes his coffee
"You know, there was so much left unsaid last night", Michael said
"Some things are best left that way", Trish says, handing Michael's cup of coffee to him
"Mmmm....Great coffee", Michael says, sipping the cup
"I fixed it just the way you've always loved it sweetie", Trish said
Michael looks as Trish as if to say she didn't have to such trouble.
"Maybe you're right. Some things are best left unsaid", Michael said "But I've been doing some thinking though", he added
Trish raises her eyebrows and smiles as she and Michael sit down on the sofa in the living room.
"I'm thinking of not leaving Cedarville once the conference is over", Michael said
Trish is taken aback by Michael's last comment and lets out a jolt as she puts her coffee cup to her lips which causes her to splatter some hot coffee onto her fingers and the table and momentarily choke on her coffee as she gasps for air.
****************
SCENE THREE - Cedarville Court House
****************
Greg has just arrived for the first day of the hearing in the divorce proceeding of him and his wife Courtney. He is quickly followed by Courtney and her entourage of lawyers.
"Ready for today Greg?", Mitchell, his lawyer, asks him
"Got the tapes", Greg asks
"Of course", Mitchell says
"Good. Let's set this court back on its ear then", Greg responds
"Tapes? What tapes", Andrea, one of Courtney's lawyers, asks
"Mitchell, now wait a minute, if you're going to pull a fast one....", Andrea says
"We're not going to do anything of the kind", Mitchell says, cutting Andrea off "We're just submitting evidence", Mitchell says
"Evidence of what?", Courtney says "Puh-leaze.....When are you going to give up that song and dance?", Courtney snidely asks
"It's no song and dance Courtney", Greg says "I take matter like this very seriously", he adds "And the evidence I have will nail you to the cross. Greg emphatically continues
*****************
SCENE FOUR - Trish's Apartment
*****************
"Not leaving Cedarville?", Trish asks, now recovered from her earlier shock "Michael, have you seriously thought this through?', she asks
"Yeah", Michael says "Ever since we ran into each other last night, I've been thinking more and more of how great it would be if we got back together again", he adds "I dunno. Maybe I'm just crazy", he continues
"No....I'm just a little surprised though", Trish said "I mean, what about your business?", she asks
"I can simply run that from here", Michael says
"Michael", Trish says, thinking he might be making too sudden a decision
"Truth is babe", Michael says "I've been thinking for a long time about coming back", he adds "Been thinking about it for weeks, if not months", he continues
Trish starts to cry
"Then when I knew about this conference being here", Michael said, "I just basically said 'This is it'. I'm coming back home to you, my sweet love"
"Michael", Trish says with a smile on her face, knowing it appears that her man has finally come home to stay
"I'd have bought you a boquet of roses, but....well.....you sorta ruined my surprise last night", Michael says
"Oh my god, I'm so sorry", Trish apologetically says with a bit of laughter and lots of joy
"Forget about it", Michael said "A boquet of roses would never do a beautiful woman like you justice", Michael adds with a smile
Trish reaches over and she and Michael embrace in a huge hug followed by several kisses
"God, I missed you", Michael said
"I missed you too", Trish said, smiling and looking passionately into his eyes as she strokes his face as if she was wondering if she dreaming or not
*********************
SCENE FIVE - Chippequah Court House
*********************
Channel 4 Investigative Reporter Stephanie Blanton, who broke the story that led to the scandal which subsequently led to the trial she's about to cover, has just arrived at the courthouse and spots the live remote unit waiting for her. She is also quickly joined by Mark Devereaux from rival station Channel 7, who is known for its tabloid-style approach to news and is dead last in the ratings as a result. She's also joined by fellow colleague and friend Tom Fenton from rival station Channel 12. Channel 12, unlike Channel 7, is more like Channel 4 in its news coverage, which is straightforward, simple and not known to be flashy. But nevertheless, the two stations sometimes clash while covering stories.
"Hey guys", Stephaie says as she walks up to the Channel 4 Action News crew that will be with her for the day
"What's up", photographer Dewayne Chapman asks
"Not much. You?", she responds as she takes the earpiece and mic that she'll need.
"Heard about your sster. Anything we can do?", Dewayne asks
"Nope", Stephanie says "Besides, who told you guys?", she curiously asks, knowing she didn't tell anyone at the station besides Roger.
"You don't know?", Dewayne asks
"Know what?", Stephanie asks in return
"See that guy with the Channel 7 crew?", Dewayne asks
"See him? I fuckin' know him", she says "But what does that have to do with the price of tea in China", Stephanie rhetorically asks
"Apparently he's got a source at the hospital", Dewayne says "He's been blabbering about it on camera ever since he got here".
"A source - here in Chippequah??", Stephanie asks, now with greater concern and wondering what Mark Devereaux and his crew could be up to.
Dewayne nods
"Apparently he's planning some big scoop for their 5:00 PM newscast tonight", Dewayne says
"Really? Well I'll give him a scoop alright - A scoop of my mind", Stephanie says "When are we to go on", she asks
"Ten minutes", Dewayne says just before he notices Stephanie wandering over to Mark's area "Where are you going?", Dewayne shouts out
"This won't take long. Be right back", Stephanie shouts back in response
As she walks over to Mark's area, she notices that he's on the air. Being the ethical journalist she is, she stands not far off camera until Mark is cleared of the airwaves. Meanwhile, Mark is just wrapping up his report.
"And that's the latest from here. We're live in Chippequah, Mark Devereaux, 7NEWS", Mark says as he signs off and hands it back to the studio
"And we're off", Mark's photographer says
"Good. Because I have a few things to say to you, Mr. Devereaux", Stephanie says
Mark turns to look at Stephanie, knowing he's been caught and now has some explaining to do
****************************
SCENE SIX - Cedarville PD Detective Squad Room
****************************
David & Marcie have just arrived when the captain spots them
"Ahh....Nice to see you two jailbirds actually had the consideration to come into work today", Captain Marshall sarcastically says
"Well, we weren't going to come in at all, but since you dragged us all the way back here, we figured it was the leastwe could do", Marcie sarcastically responds in her usual 'Top O' The Morning To You Too ASSHOLE' manner
"Well, in that case, I suppose you wouldn't mind working this one", Capt. Marshall says
"What is it", David asks as Marcie takes the file from the captain and opens it
"Apparently some woman is out there trying to claim that she is the mother of some child which she has claimed a number of guys in the military are/is the father of", Captain Marshall says
"Why do we have it then? Why is this not a matter for the feds?", David asks
"They're just as stumped as we are", Captain Marshall says
"They're investigating this too?", Marcie asks
"Yep", Capt. Marshall said "But they didn't get last night's little tip", he adds
"Last night's tip?", David asks
"Apparently this woman has been at this for the past several days, using public pay phones", Captain Marshall says "But last night, she apparently decided that using a pay phone wasn't going to work, so she decided to pay her next victim a personal visit", Capt. Marshall says "Got this plate number just last night", he adds, handing it to David "Ran it through DMV. Came back as being registered to a car rental agency. NCIC came back clean on it".
"So what angle are we investigating this from?", David asks
"A possible extortion angle", Capt. Marshall responds
"Wait a minute", Marcie says, noticing the address in the report from the night before "This isn't just some ordinary address", she continues
"You the two of you know one of the victims?", Capt. Marshall
"Yeah. A friend of ours", Marcie says, showing the file to David
"David, that's Stacy's house", Marcie says
"We'll look into it sir", David says
"Okay", Capt. Marshall confidently says "Glad to see the tweo of you back at work again, even if it's a Bunkel case", he continues "And oh yeah, hope your sister feels better soon", he adds
"Thanks", David says as he and Marcie prepare to leave "We'll be on the air", he adds as they grab a radio and leave.
***************************
SCENE SEVEN - Leo's Quarters, Baghdad, Iraq
***************************
As per ordered by Gen. Breyton in our last episode, Leo has been confined to quarters with MPs standing outside. As we pick up the scene, he is sitting in the room and reliving and recalling his entire day and his actions over the last several months. In addition, he's also fearful of what might happen next. He's also pacing the room floor from time to time.
Some several minutes later, one of his roommates, Sgt. Tyrone Walker approaches the MPs outside. Leo doesn't want to hear from Tyrone and tries to act as though he's sleeping, but Tyrone doesn't buy it.
"Yo dude....I know you ain't sleepin'. GET UP", Tyrone exclaims
Leo gets up ready for a fight, but knows he doesn't want one
"Don't tell me you're here to rub it in".
"Nope", Tyrone says "I'm here to get my shit", he continues "But before I do, we gonna have this out", he adds in a manner that leaves Leo wondering what he did to warrant such a comment from Tyrone, of all people.
*****************************************
On THE NEXT Edition Of AGAINST THE STORM
*****************************************
* Brad joins the effort in helping Jennifer regain her memory. Will she remember their argument the day she disappeared?
* David & Marcie work the case of the mysterious extortionist. Could Cassandra be the person they're looking for or is her arrival in Cedarville and visit to Stacy's house just an untimely coincidence?
* Greg & Courtney's divorce proceedings kick into full swing
* Stephanie confronts Mark about his planned story on Jennifer
* Trish & Michael talk about their future - if the even have one
Don't miss the next exciting episode.
See you all next time. :-)
This time is Copyright 2005 Pat Cook & Jeeper One Media - All Rights Reserved
SCENE ONE - Stephanie Hotel Room in Chippequah
*****************
It's the dawn of a new day in Cedarville and Stephanie Blanton, Investigative Reporter for WCDR-TV Channel 4 is seen in her hotel room in nearby Chippequah talking to her boss on the phone.
"Can't you get someone else down here to cover it, like someone who lives here".
"Well geez Steph, you've been down there for so long, you're practically considered a resident there", Roger Clayborn, her boss at the station says to Stephanie over the phone.
"Har dee har har. Funny Roger", Stpehanie says
"Steph....Seriously....No joke. I really need you to cover this trial", Roger says "Besides, you know if it wasn't for you and the hard work you put into the investigation which lead to this trial, it wouldn't be happening in the first place", Roger says
Stephanie gives a look that basically says "I know Roger. You don't have to remind me."
"You don't want all that work flushed down the drain by a bunch of carefree penny-pinching lawyers, do you?", Roger asks
"Of course not", Stephanie says, resigning herself to the fact she may well be assigned by Roger to cover the trial "But I wasn't exactly expecting my sister to suddenly fall off the face of the earth for several months either"
"I know Steph. But life's rough. Life's tough> But I need someone down there to cover that trial and you know the power trip Channel 7 gets when either us or Channel 12 don't show up to cover stories", Roger says
"Of course. They're always quick to rub it in our faces as they prove yet again their tabloid approach to news leads to breaking stories even though we're tops and theiy're dead last in the ratings", Stephanie says
"Well then.....Unless you want to see another one of those ads, I trust you'll be at the courthouse this morning when court begins?", Roger asks
"Yeah I suppose", Stephanie says "Tell the live unit crew I'll meet 'em there", she adds
"That's the spirit", Roger said "See ya later", he added
"Yeah....Laters", Stephanie responds
"And Top O' The Morning to you too", she adds as she rolls her eyes and hangs up the phone just as the buzzer rings. Stephanie goes to answer the door where she finds David & Marcie standing. She lets them in
"Good Morning", David said
Stephanie looks at David as if she was wondering what tropical paradise island he and Marcie came from.
"It's a beautiful morning alright", Stephanie said "That is if you don't mind be reminded of a certain obligation better known as your job", she adds
Marcie, who entered the room with a cup of coffee, looks as though she's gagging on the stuff as she attempts to respond to Stephanie's last comment.
"We got 'reminded' of ours too", David says as Marcie catches her breath "In fact, we're going to have to head back to Cedarville if....and I quote we want to keep our jobs end quote", he added.
"Well, I just got roped into doing mine down here", Stephanie said "You know that big trial that's supposed to be getting underway today?", she added
"Yeah", Marcie said, now recouperated from her earlier incident.
"Guess who's covering it for Channel 4", Stephanie said
David tries not to laugh at Stephanie's predictament, but winds up letting out a little chuckle anyhow
******************************
SCENE TWO - Trish's Apartment
******************************
Trish is seen drinking some orange juice when the doorbell rings. She goes to answer it.
"Good Morning", Michael says as he smiles
"Same to you", Trish says as she smiles and opens the door so he can come in "Come on in"
"Thanks", Michael said "Same ol' beautiful place I see", he added
"Just couldn't find it in me to give it up", Trish says "Want some breakfast?, she asks
"Nah...I ate before leaving the hotel", Michael said "I'll take some coffee though", he added
"Comin' right up", Trish says, knowing just how Michael likes his coffee
"You know, there was so much left unsaid last night", Michael said
"Some things are best left that way", Trish says, handing Michael's cup of coffee to him
"Mmmm....Great coffee", Michael says, sipping the cup
"I fixed it just the way you've always loved it sweetie", Trish said
Michael looks as Trish as if to say she didn't have to such trouble.
"Maybe you're right. Some things are best left unsaid", Michael said "But I've been doing some thinking though", he added
Trish raises her eyebrows and smiles as she and Michael sit down on the sofa in the living room.
"I'm thinking of not leaving Cedarville once the conference is over", Michael said
Trish is taken aback by Michael's last comment and lets out a jolt as she puts her coffee cup to her lips which causes her to splatter some hot coffee onto her fingers and the table and momentarily choke on her coffee as she gasps for air.
****************
SCENE THREE - Cedarville Court House
****************
Greg has just arrived for the first day of the hearing in the divorce proceeding of him and his wife Courtney. He is quickly followed by Courtney and her entourage of lawyers.
"Ready for today Greg?", Mitchell, his lawyer, asks him
"Got the tapes", Greg asks
"Of course", Mitchell says
"Good. Let's set this court back on its ear then", Greg responds
"Tapes? What tapes", Andrea, one of Courtney's lawyers, asks
"Mitchell, now wait a minute, if you're going to pull a fast one....", Andrea says
"We're not going to do anything of the kind", Mitchell says, cutting Andrea off "We're just submitting evidence", Mitchell says
"Evidence of what?", Courtney says "Puh-leaze.....When are you going to give up that song and dance?", Courtney snidely asks
"It's no song and dance Courtney", Greg says "I take matter like this very seriously", he adds "And the evidence I have will nail you to the cross. Greg emphatically continues
*****************
SCENE FOUR - Trish's Apartment
*****************
"Not leaving Cedarville?", Trish asks, now recovered from her earlier shock "Michael, have you seriously thought this through?', she asks
"Yeah", Michael says "Ever since we ran into each other last night, I've been thinking more and more of how great it would be if we got back together again", he adds "I dunno. Maybe I'm just crazy", he continues
"No....I'm just a little surprised though", Trish said "I mean, what about your business?", she asks
"I can simply run that from here", Michael says
"Michael", Trish says, thinking he might be making too sudden a decision
"Truth is babe", Michael says "I've been thinking for a long time about coming back", he adds "Been thinking about it for weeks, if not months", he continues
Trish starts to cry
"Then when I knew about this conference being here", Michael said, "I just basically said 'This is it'. I'm coming back home to you, my sweet love"
"Michael", Trish says with a smile on her face, knowing it appears that her man has finally come home to stay
"I'd have bought you a boquet of roses, but....well.....you sorta ruined my surprise last night", Michael says
"Oh my god, I'm so sorry", Trish apologetically says with a bit of laughter and lots of joy
"Forget about it", Michael said "A boquet of roses would never do a beautiful woman like you justice", Michael adds with a smile
Trish reaches over and she and Michael embrace in a huge hug followed by several kisses
"God, I missed you", Michael said
"I missed you too", Trish said, smiling and looking passionately into his eyes as she strokes his face as if she was wondering if she dreaming or not
*********************
SCENE FIVE - Chippequah Court House
*********************
Channel 4 Investigative Reporter Stephanie Blanton, who broke the story that led to the scandal which subsequently led to the trial she's about to cover, has just arrived at the courthouse and spots the live remote unit waiting for her. She is also quickly joined by Mark Devereaux from rival station Channel 7, who is known for its tabloid-style approach to news and is dead last in the ratings as a result. She's also joined by fellow colleague and friend Tom Fenton from rival station Channel 12. Channel 12, unlike Channel 7, is more like Channel 4 in its news coverage, which is straightforward, simple and not known to be flashy. But nevertheless, the two stations sometimes clash while covering stories.
"Hey guys", Stephaie says as she walks up to the Channel 4 Action News crew that will be with her for the day
"What's up", photographer Dewayne Chapman asks
"Not much. You?", she responds as she takes the earpiece and mic that she'll need.
"Heard about your sster. Anything we can do?", Dewayne asks
"Nope", Stephanie says "Besides, who told you guys?", she curiously asks, knowing she didn't tell anyone at the station besides Roger.
"You don't know?", Dewayne asks
"Know what?", Stephanie asks in return
"See that guy with the Channel 7 crew?", Dewayne asks
"See him? I fuckin' know him", she says "But what does that have to do with the price of tea in China", Stephanie rhetorically asks
"Apparently he's got a source at the hospital", Dewayne says "He's been blabbering about it on camera ever since he got here".
"A source - here in Chippequah??", Stephanie asks, now with greater concern and wondering what Mark Devereaux and his crew could be up to.
Dewayne nods
"Apparently he's planning some big scoop for their 5:00 PM newscast tonight", Dewayne says
"Really? Well I'll give him a scoop alright - A scoop of my mind", Stephanie says "When are we to go on", she asks
"Ten minutes", Dewayne says just before he notices Stephanie wandering over to Mark's area "Where are you going?", Dewayne shouts out
"This won't take long. Be right back", Stephanie shouts back in response
As she walks over to Mark's area, she notices that he's on the air. Being the ethical journalist she is, she stands not far off camera until Mark is cleared of the airwaves. Meanwhile, Mark is just wrapping up his report.
"And that's the latest from here. We're live in Chippequah, Mark Devereaux, 7NEWS", Mark says as he signs off and hands it back to the studio
"And we're off", Mark's photographer says
"Good. Because I have a few things to say to you, Mr. Devereaux", Stephanie says
Mark turns to look at Stephanie, knowing he's been caught and now has some explaining to do
****************************
SCENE SIX - Cedarville PD Detective Squad Room
****************************
David & Marcie have just arrived when the captain spots them
"Ahh....Nice to see you two jailbirds actually had the consideration to come into work today", Captain Marshall sarcastically says
"Well, we weren't going to come in at all, but since you dragged us all the way back here, we figured it was the leastwe could do", Marcie sarcastically responds in her usual 'Top O' The Morning To You Too ASSHOLE' manner
"Well, in that case, I suppose you wouldn't mind working this one", Capt. Marshall says
"What is it", David asks as Marcie takes the file from the captain and opens it
"Apparently some woman is out there trying to claim that she is the mother of some child which she has claimed a number of guys in the military are/is the father of", Captain Marshall says
"Why do we have it then? Why is this not a matter for the feds?", David asks
"They're just as stumped as we are", Captain Marshall says
"They're investigating this too?", Marcie asks
"Yep", Capt. Marshall said "But they didn't get last night's little tip", he adds
"Last night's tip?", David asks
"Apparently this woman has been at this for the past several days, using public pay phones", Captain Marshall says "But last night, she apparently decided that using a pay phone wasn't going to work, so she decided to pay her next victim a personal visit", Capt. Marshall says "Got this plate number just last night", he adds, handing it to David "Ran it through DMV. Came back as being registered to a car rental agency. NCIC came back clean on it".
"So what angle are we investigating this from?", David asks
"A possible extortion angle", Capt. Marshall responds
"Wait a minute", Marcie says, noticing the address in the report from the night before "This isn't just some ordinary address", she continues
"You the two of you know one of the victims?", Capt. Marshall
"Yeah. A friend of ours", Marcie says, showing the file to David
"David, that's Stacy's house", Marcie says
"We'll look into it sir", David says
"Okay", Capt. Marshall confidently says "Glad to see the tweo of you back at work again, even if it's a Bunkel case", he continues "And oh yeah, hope your sister feels better soon", he adds
"Thanks", David says as he and Marcie prepare to leave "We'll be on the air", he adds as they grab a radio and leave.
***************************
SCENE SEVEN - Leo's Quarters, Baghdad, Iraq
***************************
As per ordered by Gen. Breyton in our last episode, Leo has been confined to quarters with MPs standing outside. As we pick up the scene, he is sitting in the room and reliving and recalling his entire day and his actions over the last several months. In addition, he's also fearful of what might happen next. He's also pacing the room floor from time to time.
Some several minutes later, one of his roommates, Sgt. Tyrone Walker approaches the MPs outside. Leo doesn't want to hear from Tyrone and tries to act as though he's sleeping, but Tyrone doesn't buy it.
"Yo dude....I know you ain't sleepin'. GET UP", Tyrone exclaims
Leo gets up ready for a fight, but knows he doesn't want one
"Don't tell me you're here to rub it in".
"Nope", Tyrone says "I'm here to get my shit", he continues "But before I do, we gonna have this out", he adds in a manner that leaves Leo wondering what he did to warrant such a comment from Tyrone, of all people.
*****************************************
On THE NEXT Edition Of AGAINST THE STORM
*****************************************
* Brad joins the effort in helping Jennifer regain her memory. Will she remember their argument the day she disappeared?
* David & Marcie work the case of the mysterious extortionist. Could Cassandra be the person they're looking for or is her arrival in Cedarville and visit to Stacy's house just an untimely coincidence?
* Greg & Courtney's divorce proceedings kick into full swing
* Stephanie confronts Mark about his planned story on Jennifer
* Trish & Michael talk about their future - if the even have one
Don't miss the next exciting episode.
See you all next time. :-)
This time is Copyright 2005 Pat Cook & Jeeper One Media - All Rights Reserved
Friday, January 28, 2005
Episode 12 - Leo's Call To Stacy
*************************************
SCENE ONE - Stacy & Leo McFadden's Home
*************************************
When we checked in during last week's show, Stacy, who's now six months pregnant and living at home alone while her husband Leo is away in Iraq serving his country, she was in an altercation with Cassandra Whitmore, who flew into Cedarville from New York under the impression that Leo wasn't married. Shortly after telling Stacy that she is the mother of Leo's son Christopher, Cassandra has been told to leave. But Cassandra has thus far refused.
We pick up the scene now with Brad's arrival.....
"Brad, do me a favor & show this bitch the way off my property", Stacy demandingly asks. She then closes the door.
Cassandra blushes & looks flirtatiously at Brad
"Uhh....Sure", Brad says, still trying to figure out what's going on.
"Why Brad.....Mmmm.....What a name", Cassandra says, flirting with him.
"I'm still not quite sure what's goin on here, but I believe you've been told to leave and I've been asked to see to it that you do", Brad says in his usual down-to-earth self.
"Ohh....Well....Perhaps I could leave with you then", Cassandra says, still flirting with him.
"I don't even know you", Brad exclaims.
"That can change, you know", Cassandra says, still not getting what Brad is telling her.
"Whatever. Just leave", Brad says
"You know, for someone who doesn't even live here, you seem to have quite a lot of authority", Cassandra says, now realizing that flirting with Brad isn't going to work
"You know, for someone who not only doesn't even live here, but is also a total complete stranger around here, you lot a lot of nerve telling the one person who does live here what to do and how to talk", Brad says in response "You need to leave - NOW", he continues
"Look...I'm here to see Leo and I'm not leaving until I do", Cassandra threateningly says
Stacy, who is inside her home and has become increasingly annoyed and angry with the argument outside, storms across the living room, picks up the handset to her cordless phone, and heads for the door yet again.
"Okay, I'll put it this way. If you're off this porch in 30 seconds, I'm calling the police"
"Right. You don't even have a phone", Cassandra aroogantly says.
"He may not have a phone, but I do and I will use it", Stacy angrily says as she reopens the door and shows the handset to her cordless phone to Cassandra
**********************************
SCENE TWO - The FonDuLac Hotel - Greg's Room
**********************************
Greg McFadden is on the phone talking to Stephanie, who is in her hotel room in Chippequah.
"So when do you plan on coming back", Greg asks as he talks to Stephanie over the telephone.
"Probably tomorrow", Stephanie says from her hotel room in Chippequah on the other end of the line.
"Can't wait to see you babe", Greg says
"I can't wait either", Stepahnie says. "I can't wait till you're divorced from that wretched bitch of a wife of yours so we can get back together and start seeing each other again", she continues.
"Me either", Greg says as he notices a knock at the door. "Look, my lawyer's at the door", he continues
"At THIS hour?", Stephanie asks.
"You know....Business", Greg says "I'll call you tomorrow", he adds, answering the door to Mitchell, his lawyer, inside.
"Okay...Love you....Bye", Stephanie says
"Love you too sweetie. Bye", Greg responds. He then hangs up the phone after Stephanie hangs up on her end.
"Hello Mitchell. Sorry about being on the phone there", Greg says
"No problem. I'll just make things plain and simple by spelling it out to you", Mitchell says
"Talk to me", Greg says
"They're not settling for anything less than full custody of the kids and the yacht", Mitchell says
********************************
SCENE THREE - Stacy & Leo's Home
********************************
"You've got 60 seconds to leave - NOW", Stacy says, looking squarely at Cassandra
"Well....Since you put it that way......This isn't over", Cassandra says, looking squarely at Stacy "Not by a long shot Miss Goody Two Shoes", she continues.
"As far as I'm concerned, it is because there's nothing left to say", Stacy angrily responds as she stands toe-to-toe with Cassandra and looks at her squarely in the face. "If she doesn't leave Brad, call the police", Stacy continues.
Stacy hands Brad the phone, goes back inside and slams the door shut. Cassandra looks over at her car and then at Brad in the hopes of making one last quick hit on him.
"Well....What are you waiting for? Christmas?", Brad asks
"You've got me blocked in", Cassandra says as Brad prepares to join Stacy inside the house.
Brad then notices that his car is in Cassandra's way.
"Whatever....", Brad says, rolling his eyes and wondering why Cassandra put her vehicle in that position in the first place as he walks on over to his car door. Cassandra follows him.
"What are you doing?", Brad asks as Cassandra opens the passenger door to put Christopher in his car seat
"I am putting my child in his car seat and securing him", she responds "That bitch pretending to be Leo's wife may not give a damn about my child or what happens to him but I do.
"Make it quick, huh?", Brad responds back "Don't wanna be out here all night", he continues.
Brad jumps in his car, starts the engine, backs out of the driveway and pulls up to the front of the house. Cassandra then does the same, but before she can pull even with him, Brad then backs up to re-enter the driveway. Cassandra tries to back up to pull even with him, but is blocked by another car going down the street, a patrolling squad car from the Cedarville PD, whom Cassandra nearly backs into. Cassandra takes off before she really gives the police a reason to pull her over.
Brad then gets the attention of the officers in the squad car.
"See that car that just took off?", Brad asks
"Yeah", Joey, one of the officers in the squad car says
"The driver was over at my friend's place here and we had to threaten to call you guys to get her to leave", Brad says
"Is she drunk or unruly", Lisa, the other officer in the car says
"No. Just uninvited and not welcome", Brad says in response "Looks as though she may have a baby too", he continues
"Okay....We'll keep an eye out for her in case she returns.", Joey says
"Thanks", Brad says
Joey and Lisa resume their patrol while Brad pulls back into Stacy's driveway. Once inside, Stacy thanks Brad for all his help and for being there when she needed him and takes her phone back. Brad, figuring Stacy must be tired and wanting to go to bed, leaves himself.
***************************
SCENE FOUR - Military Communications Center - Baghdad, Iraq
***************************
"I'd like someplace where I call my wife in Cedarville please", Leo tells the officer on duty.
"Follow me", the officer says
Leo follows the officer to a terminal not in use.
"Thank you", Leo says
"Gonna finally tell your wife, eh", the officer asks. Leo gives him a None-Of-Your-Damn-Business look.
"That's okay", the officer tauntingly says "Between you and me, it's not only the base. It's all over the country. Even the Iraqi civilians are talking about it on the street - Hee Hee Hee", the officer says with a laugh
"Just leave me alone, okay", Leo says
"Ohh Sure. Glad I'm not you. Ha....Ha....Ha", the officer says, laughing out loud as he walks away "You in deep doo-doo now. Hee....Hee....Hee", he continues, laughing his head off until he sees Gen. Breyton in front of him. The officer salutes him as he passes by.
"Enjoy your cheap laughs while you still can, private", Gen. Breyton says.
"Uhh....Sir...Yes sir. At your service sir", the private comms officer says with a smile on his face.
"And wipe that smile off your face.", Gen. Breyton says "You're foaming at the lips", he continues.
"Yes sir", the private says as he returns to his post with Gen. Breyton non-chalantly looks around.
Meanwhile, back at the house in Cedarville, Stacy hears her computer signal that Leo is trying to call her using a VoIP client connected to the Internet. Stacy walks over to the computer and answers Leo's call.
"Hey babe", Leo says when he sees the connection.
"Hi Leo", Stacy says in her tired state.
"You look tired. I won't keep you though", Leo says
"Normally I would say okay, but....", Stacy says, her voice drifting and trailing off
"But what?", Leo asks
"Probably nothing. But nothing you need to be worried about", Stacy says.
"Heh", Leo says, brushing off Stacy's last comment "Well, what I wanted to call you about is......is......", Leo says, his voice trailing off as he looks for any sign of Gen. Breyton's prescence.
"That you love me? I know that. What else?", Stacy says
"Well....There's rumor going around that there's this woman claiming to be the mother of her child and that I'm supposedly the target", Leo says
Those words get quickly Stacy's attention.
"Was her name Cassandra Whitmore by any chance?", Stacy asks
Leo's throat drops into this stomach
"Ohh God....She's been there", Leo says, thinking he's talking to himself as he rolls his eyes
"So you know about her?", Stacy asks
"Babe...I just found out about this myself", Leo says "I'm shocked", he continues. "Listen babe, whatever she says, don't believe her", Leo pleadingly says "According to official sources.....You know....Military Intel.....She's a scam artist", Leo says "She supposedly has done this for quite a while".
"Leo, you're scaring me, you're saying the woman at our doorstep tonight was a scam artist?", Stacy asks, now rattled by what Leo just said "Hold on sweetie. Someone's at the door", she continues, hearing the knocking at the door
"If that's her, you hang up and call the police", Leo says as Stacy gets up to answer the door
*********************************
SCENE FIVE - David & Marcie's Hotel Room
*********************************
David and Marcie are in bed getting ready to go to sleep.
"You were right David", Marcie said "We shouldn't have gone after Jennifer like that", she continues
"You got that right", David said "Who knows what sort of damage was done as a result of that
The room phone rings. Brad is on the other end.
"Who could that be?", Marcie asks
"I dunno, but we'll find out", David says as he picks up the receiver "Hello", he says to Brad, who is on the other end
"David, it's me, Brad", Brad says "I've been doing some thinking. What can I do to help?"
"Well", David says with a surprised look on his face "You still got a key to Jen's place?", he asks
"Yeah. I think so", Brad says
"Good", David says "Here's what we need you to do tomorrow", he adds
"What is it?", Brad asks, fumbling for a pen and paper as he drives down the street, but finds none, so he turns on his laptop PC instead.
"We need you to dig up any pictures of all of us with her in them", David says
"All of them?", Brad asks, hoping he'd be able to leave out the pictures with him & Jennifer in them
"Well....okay, leave out the ones with you in them if you want", David says "Afterall, we wouldn't want to hurt your pride, now would we?", David sarcastically asks
"Okay, I'll dig 'em up, but I'm not delivering them to her though", Brad sarcastically responds
"That's okay because all you need to do is drop them off here and we'll do the rest", David says "You still got the name of the hotel and the address", he asks
"Yeah", Brad responds
"Cool. We'll see you tomorrow then", David says
"Alright. Laters", Brad says before hanging up the phone.
"Who was that?", Marcie asks
"Brad", David responds "I think he's coming to his senses now", he adds
***************************************
SCENE SIX - Leo & Stacy's Home
***************************************
"Can I help you?", Stacy asks Joey and Lisa, the two officers who passed by earlier
"Are you the resident who lives here", Lisa asks
"Yes. My name is Stacy McFadden. Is there something wrong", Stacy asks
"Ms. McFadden, I'm Officer Joey Scalia and this is my partner Officer Lisa Myers", Joey said "We received a report from someone claiming to be a friend of yours that you had an uninvited and unwelcome female guest here earlier this evening", Joey adds "We're doing a follow-up investigation"
"That would be my friend Brad that you're referring to", Stacy says "And the woman, well....yeah, you could say she was unwelcome", Stacy adds "She claimed to be the mother of my husband's baby or something", Stacy continues "I told her she had to leave and ultimately had to threaten to call you guys if she didn't", Stacy continues
"Where is your husband now, Ms. McFadden? Can we perhaps speak with him?", Lisa asks
"He's in Iraq serving our country, but he just called me and were in the middle of a conversation when you knocked", Stacy said "Would you like to talk to him?", she asks
"If at all possible, yes we would", Lisa says
"Sure. Hope you don't mind talking through a computer", Stacy said as she invited the officers in.
Joey and Lisa speak with Leo, who gives them the same story he gave to Stacy. Upon the end of their conversation with Leo, they thanked him and they are now ready to leave.
"Ms. McFadden, if this woman ever comes back, don't hesitate to call us", Lisa said as she and Joey hand Stacy a business card "These cards have our names and direct numbers on them. You can also page us too", Lisa continues "Our pager numbers are also on the cards we just gave you", she adds
"Thank you officers", she says as she prepares to show them out
"If you can't get a hold of us or if you're in a life threatening situation, no matter who or what is responsible, call 911", Joey says "And if that woman comes back and threatens you, call 911 without hesitation or return threats to make such a call", he adds.
"I will. Thanks again officers", Stacy said
"No. Thank you - and your husband", Joey says with his usual New York accent
"You got that right", Lisa says as Stacy unintentionally closes the door. Realizing she may have closed the door prematurely, she looks through the peephole, but finds Joey & Lisa heading back to their squad car.
Stacy returns to the computer.
"Listen sweetie, I'm tired and pooped", Stacy says "Was there anything else you wanted to say?", she asks
"Just that I love you", Leo said
"Love you too. Bye now", Stacy says
"Bye", Leo says as she disconnects
Meanwhile back in Baghdad....
"A scam artist, eh McFadden?", Gen. Breyton asks
Leo turns around and notices Gen. Breyton accompanied by two MPs.
"How many more lies are you going to tell?", Gen. Breyton asks
"But sir", Leo pleadingly says
"You told that story no only to your wife, but to a couple of civilian police officers as well", Gen. Breyton said "Congratulations McFadden! You not only guaranteed yourself a trip home to the states, but you also managed to practically guarantee yourself a dishonorable discharge for lying to the police
"But sir", Leo pleads even further
"McFadden, consider yourself confined to quarters", Gen. Breyton says "Get him out of here", he orders to the MPs
Leo begs and screams as the MPs escort him out.
*****************************************
On THE NEXT Edition Of AGAINST THE STORM
*****************************************
* Greg & Courtney have another meeting, but this time with lawyers in tow. What will happen?
* Trish & Michael ponder the idea of getting back together again, but has time finally caught up with them? Has Trish really forgiven him for the events that lead to his departure nearly three years ago?
* Brad joins the effort in helping Jennifer regain her memory. Will she remember their argument the day she disappeared?
* Leo is fearful of what Gen. Breyton will do next.
Don't miss the next exciting episode.
See you all next time. :-)
This time is Copyright 2005 Pat Cook & Jeeper One Media - All Rights Reserved
SCENE ONE - Stacy & Leo McFadden's Home
*************************************
When we checked in during last week's show, Stacy, who's now six months pregnant and living at home alone while her husband Leo is away in Iraq serving his country, she was in an altercation with Cassandra Whitmore, who flew into Cedarville from New York under the impression that Leo wasn't married. Shortly after telling Stacy that she is the mother of Leo's son Christopher, Cassandra has been told to leave. But Cassandra has thus far refused.
We pick up the scene now with Brad's arrival.....
"Brad, do me a favor & show this bitch the way off my property", Stacy demandingly asks. She then closes the door.
Cassandra blushes & looks flirtatiously at Brad
"Uhh....Sure", Brad says, still trying to figure out what's going on.
"Why Brad.....Mmmm.....What a name", Cassandra says, flirting with him.
"I'm still not quite sure what's goin on here, but I believe you've been told to leave and I've been asked to see to it that you do", Brad says in his usual down-to-earth self.
"Ohh....Well....Perhaps I could leave with you then", Cassandra says, still flirting with him.
"I don't even know you", Brad exclaims.
"That can change, you know", Cassandra says, still not getting what Brad is telling her.
"Whatever. Just leave", Brad says
"You know, for someone who doesn't even live here, you seem to have quite a lot of authority", Cassandra says, now realizing that flirting with Brad isn't going to work
"You know, for someone who not only doesn't even live here, but is also a total complete stranger around here, you lot a lot of nerve telling the one person who does live here what to do and how to talk", Brad says in response "You need to leave - NOW", he continues
"Look...I'm here to see Leo and I'm not leaving until I do", Cassandra threateningly says
Stacy, who is inside her home and has become increasingly annoyed and angry with the argument outside, storms across the living room, picks up the handset to her cordless phone, and heads for the door yet again.
"Okay, I'll put it this way. If you're off this porch in 30 seconds, I'm calling the police"
"Right. You don't even have a phone", Cassandra aroogantly says.
"He may not have a phone, but I do and I will use it", Stacy angrily says as she reopens the door and shows the handset to her cordless phone to Cassandra
**********************************
SCENE TWO - The FonDuLac Hotel - Greg's Room
**********************************
Greg McFadden is on the phone talking to Stephanie, who is in her hotel room in Chippequah.
"So when do you plan on coming back", Greg asks as he talks to Stephanie over the telephone.
"Probably tomorrow", Stephanie says from her hotel room in Chippequah on the other end of the line.
"Can't wait to see you babe", Greg says
"I can't wait either", Stepahnie says. "I can't wait till you're divorced from that wretched bitch of a wife of yours so we can get back together and start seeing each other again", she continues.
"Me either", Greg says as he notices a knock at the door. "Look, my lawyer's at the door", he continues
"At THIS hour?", Stephanie asks.
"You know....Business", Greg says "I'll call you tomorrow", he adds, answering the door to Mitchell, his lawyer, inside.
"Okay...Love you....Bye", Stephanie says
"Love you too sweetie. Bye", Greg responds. He then hangs up the phone after Stephanie hangs up on her end.
"Hello Mitchell. Sorry about being on the phone there", Greg says
"No problem. I'll just make things plain and simple by spelling it out to you", Mitchell says
"Talk to me", Greg says
"They're not settling for anything less than full custody of the kids and the yacht", Mitchell says
********************************
SCENE THREE - Stacy & Leo's Home
********************************
"You've got 60 seconds to leave - NOW", Stacy says, looking squarely at Cassandra
"Well....Since you put it that way......This isn't over", Cassandra says, looking squarely at Stacy "Not by a long shot Miss Goody Two Shoes", she continues.
"As far as I'm concerned, it is because there's nothing left to say", Stacy angrily responds as she stands toe-to-toe with Cassandra and looks at her squarely in the face. "If she doesn't leave Brad, call the police", Stacy continues.
Stacy hands Brad the phone, goes back inside and slams the door shut. Cassandra looks over at her car and then at Brad in the hopes of making one last quick hit on him.
"Well....What are you waiting for? Christmas?", Brad asks
"You've got me blocked in", Cassandra says as Brad prepares to join Stacy inside the house.
Brad then notices that his car is in Cassandra's way.
"Whatever....", Brad says, rolling his eyes and wondering why Cassandra put her vehicle in that position in the first place as he walks on over to his car door. Cassandra follows him.
"What are you doing?", Brad asks as Cassandra opens the passenger door to put Christopher in his car seat
"I am putting my child in his car seat and securing him", she responds "That bitch pretending to be Leo's wife may not give a damn about my child or what happens to him but I do.
"Make it quick, huh?", Brad responds back "Don't wanna be out here all night", he continues.
Brad jumps in his car, starts the engine, backs out of the driveway and pulls up to the front of the house. Cassandra then does the same, but before she can pull even with him, Brad then backs up to re-enter the driveway. Cassandra tries to back up to pull even with him, but is blocked by another car going down the street, a patrolling squad car from the Cedarville PD, whom Cassandra nearly backs into. Cassandra takes off before she really gives the police a reason to pull her over.
Brad then gets the attention of the officers in the squad car.
"See that car that just took off?", Brad asks
"Yeah", Joey, one of the officers in the squad car says
"The driver was over at my friend's place here and we had to threaten to call you guys to get her to leave", Brad says
"Is she drunk or unruly", Lisa, the other officer in the car says
"No. Just uninvited and not welcome", Brad says in response "Looks as though she may have a baby too", he continues
"Okay....We'll keep an eye out for her in case she returns.", Joey says
"Thanks", Brad says
Joey and Lisa resume their patrol while Brad pulls back into Stacy's driveway. Once inside, Stacy thanks Brad for all his help and for being there when she needed him and takes her phone back. Brad, figuring Stacy must be tired and wanting to go to bed, leaves himself.
***************************
SCENE FOUR - Military Communications Center - Baghdad, Iraq
***************************
"I'd like someplace where I call my wife in Cedarville please", Leo tells the officer on duty.
"Follow me", the officer says
Leo follows the officer to a terminal not in use.
"Thank you", Leo says
"Gonna finally tell your wife, eh", the officer asks. Leo gives him a None-Of-Your-Damn-Business look.
"That's okay", the officer tauntingly says "Between you and me, it's not only the base. It's all over the country. Even the Iraqi civilians are talking about it on the street - Hee Hee Hee", the officer says with a laugh
"Just leave me alone, okay", Leo says
"Ohh Sure. Glad I'm not you. Ha....Ha....Ha", the officer says, laughing out loud as he walks away "You in deep doo-doo now. Hee....Hee....Hee", he continues, laughing his head off until he sees Gen. Breyton in front of him. The officer salutes him as he passes by.
"Enjoy your cheap laughs while you still can, private", Gen. Breyton says.
"Uhh....Sir...Yes sir. At your service sir", the private comms officer says with a smile on his face.
"And wipe that smile off your face.", Gen. Breyton says "You're foaming at the lips", he continues.
"Yes sir", the private says as he returns to his post with Gen. Breyton non-chalantly looks around.
Meanwhile, back at the house in Cedarville, Stacy hears her computer signal that Leo is trying to call her using a VoIP client connected to the Internet. Stacy walks over to the computer and answers Leo's call.
"Hey babe", Leo says when he sees the connection.
"Hi Leo", Stacy says in her tired state.
"You look tired. I won't keep you though", Leo says
"Normally I would say okay, but....", Stacy says, her voice drifting and trailing off
"But what?", Leo asks
"Probably nothing. But nothing you need to be worried about", Stacy says.
"Heh", Leo says, brushing off Stacy's last comment "Well, what I wanted to call you about is......is......", Leo says, his voice trailing off as he looks for any sign of Gen. Breyton's prescence.
"That you love me? I know that. What else?", Stacy says
"Well....There's rumor going around that there's this woman claiming to be the mother of her child and that I'm supposedly the target", Leo says
Those words get quickly Stacy's attention.
"Was her name Cassandra Whitmore by any chance?", Stacy asks
Leo's throat drops into this stomach
"Ohh God....She's been there", Leo says, thinking he's talking to himself as he rolls his eyes
"So you know about her?", Stacy asks
"Babe...I just found out about this myself", Leo says "I'm shocked", he continues. "Listen babe, whatever she says, don't believe her", Leo pleadingly says "According to official sources.....You know....Military Intel.....She's a scam artist", Leo says "She supposedly has done this for quite a while".
"Leo, you're scaring me, you're saying the woman at our doorstep tonight was a scam artist?", Stacy asks, now rattled by what Leo just said "Hold on sweetie. Someone's at the door", she continues, hearing the knocking at the door
"If that's her, you hang up and call the police", Leo says as Stacy gets up to answer the door
*********************************
SCENE FIVE - David & Marcie's Hotel Room
*********************************
David and Marcie are in bed getting ready to go to sleep.
"You were right David", Marcie said "We shouldn't have gone after Jennifer like that", she continues
"You got that right", David said "Who knows what sort of damage was done as a result of that
The room phone rings. Brad is on the other end.
"Who could that be?", Marcie asks
"I dunno, but we'll find out", David says as he picks up the receiver "Hello", he says to Brad, who is on the other end
"David, it's me, Brad", Brad says "I've been doing some thinking. What can I do to help?"
"Well", David says with a surprised look on his face "You still got a key to Jen's place?", he asks
"Yeah. I think so", Brad says
"Good", David says "Here's what we need you to do tomorrow", he adds
"What is it?", Brad asks, fumbling for a pen and paper as he drives down the street, but finds none, so he turns on his laptop PC instead.
"We need you to dig up any pictures of all of us with her in them", David says
"All of them?", Brad asks, hoping he'd be able to leave out the pictures with him & Jennifer in them
"Well....okay, leave out the ones with you in them if you want", David says "Afterall, we wouldn't want to hurt your pride, now would we?", David sarcastically asks
"Okay, I'll dig 'em up, but I'm not delivering them to her though", Brad sarcastically responds
"That's okay because all you need to do is drop them off here and we'll do the rest", David says "You still got the name of the hotel and the address", he asks
"Yeah", Brad responds
"Cool. We'll see you tomorrow then", David says
"Alright. Laters", Brad says before hanging up the phone.
"Who was that?", Marcie asks
"Brad", David responds "I think he's coming to his senses now", he adds
***************************************
SCENE SIX - Leo & Stacy's Home
***************************************
"Can I help you?", Stacy asks Joey and Lisa, the two officers who passed by earlier
"Are you the resident who lives here", Lisa asks
"Yes. My name is Stacy McFadden. Is there something wrong", Stacy asks
"Ms. McFadden, I'm Officer Joey Scalia and this is my partner Officer Lisa Myers", Joey said "We received a report from someone claiming to be a friend of yours that you had an uninvited and unwelcome female guest here earlier this evening", Joey adds "We're doing a follow-up investigation"
"That would be my friend Brad that you're referring to", Stacy says "And the woman, well....yeah, you could say she was unwelcome", Stacy adds "She claimed to be the mother of my husband's baby or something", Stacy continues "I told her she had to leave and ultimately had to threaten to call you guys if she didn't", Stacy continues
"Where is your husband now, Ms. McFadden? Can we perhaps speak with him?", Lisa asks
"He's in Iraq serving our country, but he just called me and were in the middle of a conversation when you knocked", Stacy said "Would you like to talk to him?", she asks
"If at all possible, yes we would", Lisa says
"Sure. Hope you don't mind talking through a computer", Stacy said as she invited the officers in.
Joey and Lisa speak with Leo, who gives them the same story he gave to Stacy. Upon the end of their conversation with Leo, they thanked him and they are now ready to leave.
"Ms. McFadden, if this woman ever comes back, don't hesitate to call us", Lisa said as she and Joey hand Stacy a business card "These cards have our names and direct numbers on them. You can also page us too", Lisa continues "Our pager numbers are also on the cards we just gave you", she adds
"Thank you officers", she says as she prepares to show them out
"If you can't get a hold of us or if you're in a life threatening situation, no matter who or what is responsible, call 911", Joey says "And if that woman comes back and threatens you, call 911 without hesitation or return threats to make such a call", he adds.
"I will. Thanks again officers", Stacy said
"No. Thank you - and your husband", Joey says with his usual New York accent
"You got that right", Lisa says as Stacy unintentionally closes the door. Realizing she may have closed the door prematurely, she looks through the peephole, but finds Joey & Lisa heading back to their squad car.
Stacy returns to the computer.
"Listen sweetie, I'm tired and pooped", Stacy says "Was there anything else you wanted to say?", she asks
"Just that I love you", Leo said
"Love you too. Bye now", Stacy says
"Bye", Leo says as she disconnects
Meanwhile back in Baghdad....
"A scam artist, eh McFadden?", Gen. Breyton asks
Leo turns around and notices Gen. Breyton accompanied by two MPs.
"How many more lies are you going to tell?", Gen. Breyton asks
"But sir", Leo pleadingly says
"You told that story no only to your wife, but to a couple of civilian police officers as well", Gen. Breyton said "Congratulations McFadden! You not only guaranteed yourself a trip home to the states, but you also managed to practically guarantee yourself a dishonorable discharge for lying to the police
"But sir", Leo pleads even further
"McFadden, consider yourself confined to quarters", Gen. Breyton says "Get him out of here", he orders to the MPs
Leo begs and screams as the MPs escort him out.
*****************************************
On THE NEXT Edition Of AGAINST THE STORM
*****************************************
* Greg & Courtney have another meeting, but this time with lawyers in tow. What will happen?
* Trish & Michael ponder the idea of getting back together again, but has time finally caught up with them? Has Trish really forgiven him for the events that lead to his departure nearly three years ago?
* Brad joins the effort in helping Jennifer regain her memory. Will she remember their argument the day she disappeared?
* Leo is fearful of what Gen. Breyton will do next.
Don't miss the next exciting episode.
See you all next time. :-)
This time is Copyright 2005 Pat Cook & Jeeper One Media - All Rights Reserved
Friday, January 21, 2005
Episode 11 - Auld Acquaintences Be Remembered
*******************************
SCENE ONE - Stacy & Leo's Home
*******************************
As we ended our last episode, Cassandra Whitmore, the woman whom Leo has been seen with while the two were serving our country in the Middle East, and who claims to be the mother of Leo's child Christopher, has arrived at what she thinks is just Leo's house for a surprise visit (and shocks the hell out of Leo's wife, Stacy, in the process), but as you're about to witness, the surprise is on her. Read on....
"Excuse me?", Stacy says, still reeling from the bombshell Cassandra just dealt to her
"What part of my previous statement did you not understand?", Cassandra asks, wondering who the woman in front of her thinks she is
"Leo, the father of your child?", Stacy asks "Ohh no....You are sadly mistaken lady", she adds before Cassandra can respond. "Who the fuck are you?", she asks, again before Cassandra could get a word in edgewise and thinking she must be a con artist (if not a complete wacko).
"I told you my name is Cassandra Whitmore", Cassandra responds. "Who the fuck are you?", she returns
"I'm his wife" Stacy snaps in response.
Cassandra now looks as though she has been punched in the gut.
******************************************
SCENE TWO - The FonDu Lac Restaurant
******************************************
Trish is seen sitting at the bar when she realizes she sees an old acquaintance sitting not far from her. After spending several minutes debating with herself as to whether the man is or isn't her long lost lover Michael Carlotti, who left town after divorcing his wife Diane instead of going back to Trish nearly three years ago, Trish gingerly, yet almost excitedly walks up to the man whom she thinks is her long lost lover.
"Michael? Michael Carlotti?" she asks in an attempt to get the man's attention
"Trish?", the man asks with a shocked and surprised look on his face. Trish responds by smiling and showing him a ring that she's wearing which the man now recalls giving to her before.
"Oh my gosh", Michael says, still reeling from the surprise "I don't believe it", he said
Trish nods in a positive manner as she smiles. The two exchange hugs.
"I'm not interrupting anything, am I?", Trish asks
"Not a thing", Michael said "Sit down. Have a seat", he adds "I would've though you would've ditched that ring and gotten married by now", he continues, noticing she still has the ring he gave her, which is part of the symbol of their love.
"Whoa....Ditch the ring which you, the one man I almost married (not to mention the one man who made me like the happiest woman on earth) gave to me?", Trish asks "I don't think so", she adds. "Too many fond and happy memories", she continues as she looks at the ring.
"Well....For what it's worth, I still have mine", Michael says, showing his hand to her.
Trish and Michael look into each other's eyes and they skiddishly and nervously put the two rings together side by side as they remember the love they had for each other.
"The two rings still form the symbol of our love", Michael adds.
"I remember when you gave this to me", Trish said "You said no matter where we were, we'd still be together as long as we wore the ring", she adds, trying to fight back tears of joy and happiness "I suppose that's why I never got married", she adds. "You were my guardian angel", she says, filled with emotion and still fighting off tears of joy and happiness.
A waiter stops by, but can obviously tell Michael isn't ready to order. He then moves on.
Meanwhile, at the front door, Rob & Michelle look over at the obvious conversation Trish and Michael are having at his table.
"Who's that guy with Trish", Rob asks out of suspicion
"Dunno", Michelle said "But whoever he is, Trish spotted him as she was sitting over at the bar", she adds
"Think he might be hitting on her?", Rob asks, still suspicious of what's going on at his table
"The two of them seemed to be in a rather intense and emotional conversation when I stopped to take their order", said the waiter who was at Michael's table a few moments earlier
"Maybe we ought to ask him to leave then", Rob cluelessly says
"Whoa....Wait a minute cowboy!", Michelle exclaims "Suppose she and him are having a happy conversation", she hypothetically adds. "Moreover, suppose they're business partners discussing business", she again hypothetically adds. "Do you really want to be the one to tell him he has to leave?", she continues, thinking Rob really wouldn't be stupid enough to put himself in that position.
"No", Rob said. "But people usually aren't around here this late discussing business though", he adds
"Well then you my dear handsome prince, haven't been noticing some of the activity that usually goes on around here", Michelle says with a tone of experience in her voice as she walks away.
**********************************************
SCENE THREE - Gen. Breyton's Office - Baghdad, Iraq
**********************************************
"As such, I think you should tell your wife the truth", Gen. Breyton says, continuing his earlier comment from our last episode
"Sir, I can't", Leo says
"Can't or won't", Gen. Breyton responds
"Sir, do you have any clue what you're asking me to do", Leo asks, almost crying
"I'm saying you should come clean and tell the truth", Gen. Breyton said.
"I may as well tell her that I'm divorcing her because that's exactly what she'll do", Leo insistently says
"Then that's what she does", Gen. Breyton said "You'll just have to deal with it", he adds "But I will not have a man under my command who's pre-occupied with his own personal war to fight the one we were sent here for", Gen. Breyton adamantly says.
"As such, I am ordering you to head over to the Communications Center where you will call your wife and tell her the truth", Gen. Breyton continues
"But sir", Leo says "I can't", he adds.
"Can't or won't, Lieutenant?", Gen. Breyton asks
Leo is at a loss for words as he looks as though he's begging for sympathy from Gen. Breyton, who is offering no such thing.
"I almost find it amazing that this is the same man who just a couple of months ago stood up to gunfire, mortal shells and even grenades, to rescue three of his own buddies in a military rescue operation which earned him three purple hearts I might add. But when it comes to dealing with his own wife, his ducks, cringes, and cries like a baby.
"I've even heard you have a reputation of being a real Johnnie Appleseed around here", Gen. Breyton continued "Didn't really put much stock in it till now", he adds. "But when it came down to that reputation being tested - YOU FAILED", ge. Breyton adds, rubbing salt into Leo's situational wound
"Sir....Is there anything else?", Leo asks, wanting to end this otherwise one-way conversation
"I used to be like you myself", Ge. Breyton said "Looking back on my own experience, I was just as brash, bold, brazen, and Johnnie Appleseedish as are you are - or at least were", Gen. Breyton recalls "But then I got married all that changed", Gen. Breyton continues "Except for the Johnnie Appleseed part", he continues with his lecture
"Then one time while in Vietnam, I too had an affair with another woman while serving my country", he continues "It came back to haunt me", Gen. Breyton said
Leo suddenly becomes more relaxed now that he knows he's not alone
"I didn't tell my wife till after I came back home in '75", Gen. Breyton recalls
"What happened?", Leo asks
"By the time I got back from 'Nam, my wife not only divorced me ex-parte', she also took my kids and my home", Gen. Breyton said. "Had to live on base till I could find a more suitable place to live", he recalls. "On top of that, my C/O at the time had found out about my marital situation since it affected my wages as a military officer, and you know what he told me?", Gen. Breyton asked
"No, what?", Leo responded
"He told me he tried to get me on the next transport plane out", Gen. Breyton said "You see, I too learned of the pregnancy of the woman who I'd been having an affair with while in the middle of a warzone", Gen. Breyton said "And, like you, I quickly became pre-occupied, even obsessed with the situation", Gen. Breyton continues "And I was waging war with myself too".
As a result of the whole thing, I told myself if I ever got someone under my command like that, I'd do exactly what my C/O tried to do.
Leo's mouth instantly turns into a runway for flies at the sound of those words as the thought of being sent home on a transport plane from Iraq sends shivers up and down his spine.
********************************
SCENE FOUR - Stacy & Leo's Home
********************************
"No....No.....That can't be", Cassandra said "Leo told me he wasn't married", she adds
"Well obviously your intel is wrong as I have the ring and the certificate to prove it", Stacy said
"Look....I don't who the fuck you think you are, but I want to see Leo NOW", Cassandra adamantly says "I DEMAND that you to let me see him", Cassandra demands.
"Well first of all, my husband is in the Middle East serving his country", Stacy responds "And secondly, last time I checked, this is still MY property", she adds "so you are in NO POSITION WHATSOVER to be telling me to do shit, Miss Goody Two Shoes", Stacy continues
"So you can take your Miss High-And-Mighty attitude and SHOVE IT UP YOUR FUCKIN' ASS along with your claim of my husband being the father of your child. You are UNAMERICAN, you fuckin' bitch", Stacy responds "Now, if you don't mind, I have a friend stopping by. You know, someone I'm supposed to know. So GET THE FUCK OFF MY PROPERTY YOU FUCKIN' BITCH", she adds as she sees Brad into the driveway and feeling stressed out and the baby kicking inside her.
"You know....For someone who's obviously about to become a mother herself, you seem to be rather liberal with the potty mouth", Cassandra sarcastically says "I don't appreciate people using that kind of language around my child", she adds "Might I offer you a bar of soap", Cassandra asks as she convienently whips out a bar of soap and offers it to Stacy as if Stacy was accepting charity
"You are UNAMERICAN", Stacy says, now seething with anger, her eyes bulging and shooting fire from their sockets and with a look of K I L L on her face, but she stops short of doing anything or saying anything else as Brad walks up, disturbed by what he heard as he was getting out of the car (and now seeing Stacy in the state she's in) and notices Cassandra, whom he knows is a total stranger to him and Stacy.
"You okay Stace", Brad asks as Stacy looks at Cassandra as if she's daring her to do or say anything else. Brad notices this and looks at Cassandra.
"Who are you?", Brad asks, not knowing Cassandra from a hole in the ground
*****************************
SCENE FIVE - Just outside The FonDuLac Restaurant
*****************************
Trish & Michael have just had dinner and are taking a stroll outside as they prepare to leave.
"You know, in a fit of rage, I almost took the ring off when I heard you left town after divorcing Diane", Trish confesses
"There was a point where I thought I'd never see you again either", Michael responded "And I almost took it off myself", he admitted
"You and I have such wonderful memories, lierally growing up together", Trish said
"I know", Michael said "How I wish things would've worked out differently", he adds
"They still can", Trish affectionately says "Remember.....As long as we still have the rings, the symbol of our love, we will always be together", she reminds him.
"Yeah....You're right", Michael admitted "Hate it when you are", he adds with a chuckle
Trish responds with a soft giggle
"It's not like I'm married", Michael adds "And even if I were, our love is stronger than any marriage", he adds
"It sure is", Trish says
Michael smiles
"You know, with all the commotion, you never said why you came back to Cedarville", Trish recalls "So, old friend and dearest lover, what brought you back to town", she curiously asks
"Business I'm afraid", Michael responds "Have a business conference to attend this week", he adds
"Ohh...", Trish says.
"Last time I recall, you said you were going into business yourself", Michael recalls
"Yep", Trish responds. "Real Estate Investor & Interior Decorator", she adds
"Two professions rolled into one, eh?", Michael asked
"Yeah", Trish responds
"Must keep you busy", Michael said
"Sometimes", Trish said.
The two continue their stroll.....
*************************
SCENE SIX - Gen. Breyton's Office - Baghdad, Iraq
*************************
"You're going to put me on a transport plane back to the states?", Leo asks
"Damn straight I am", Gen. Breyton responds
"But....But.....But sir, I....I....I can keep this in check", Leo said, pleading his case
"McFadden, what part of my story did you not understand?", Gen. Breyton asks
"B...B....But sir....", Leo says
"No buts McFadden. It's done", Gen. Breyton said
"I don't understand", Leo said
"McFadden....With you getting those purple hearts, the people back in Cedarville think of you as a hero", Gen. Breyton said "I even hear the mayor is planning to have a parade upon your return", he adds "How do you think most people will react if they learn that you committed adultery while over here?", he asks "You better think about that", he continues
"Sir....With all due respect, I will not board that plane", Leo said
"Oh yes you will", Gen. Breyton said "You'll be on that plane even if I have to throw you on there myself", he adds
"Now you haul your ass over to the Communications Center and you get on the horn with your wife", Gen. Breyton said "Dismissed Lieutenant", he added.
"Under extreme duress....Sir, yes sir", Leo said
Leo walks out of Gen. Breyton's office.
**************************************
On THE NEXT Edition Of AGAINST THE STORM
**************************************
* Leo calls Stacy as per orders from General Breyton. What will he say to her when asked about Cassandra?
* Trish & Michael ponder the idea of getting back together again, but has time finally caught up with them? Has Trish really forgiven him for the events that lead to his departure nearly three years ago?
* Will Brad rethink his position on Jennifer? We he try to help her regain her memory?
* Greg & Courtney have another meeting, but this time with lawyers in tow. What will happen?
Don't miss the next exciting episode.
See you all next time. :-)
This time is Copyright 2005 Pat Cook & Jeeper One Media - All Rights Reserved
SCENE ONE - Stacy & Leo's Home
*******************************
As we ended our last episode, Cassandra Whitmore, the woman whom Leo has been seen with while the two were serving our country in the Middle East, and who claims to be the mother of Leo's child Christopher, has arrived at what she thinks is just Leo's house for a surprise visit (and shocks the hell out of Leo's wife, Stacy, in the process), but as you're about to witness, the surprise is on her. Read on....
"Excuse me?", Stacy says, still reeling from the bombshell Cassandra just dealt to her
"What part of my previous statement did you not understand?", Cassandra asks, wondering who the woman in front of her thinks she is
"Leo, the father of your child?", Stacy asks "Ohh no....You are sadly mistaken lady", she adds before Cassandra can respond. "Who the fuck are you?", she asks, again before Cassandra could get a word in edgewise and thinking she must be a con artist (if not a complete wacko).
"I told you my name is Cassandra Whitmore", Cassandra responds. "Who the fuck are you?", she returns
"I'm his wife" Stacy snaps in response.
Cassandra now looks as though she has been punched in the gut.
******************************************
SCENE TWO - The FonDu Lac Restaurant
******************************************
Trish is seen sitting at the bar when she realizes she sees an old acquaintance sitting not far from her. After spending several minutes debating with herself as to whether the man is or isn't her long lost lover Michael Carlotti, who left town after divorcing his wife Diane instead of going back to Trish nearly three years ago, Trish gingerly, yet almost excitedly walks up to the man whom she thinks is her long lost lover.
"Michael? Michael Carlotti?" she asks in an attempt to get the man's attention
"Trish?", the man asks with a shocked and surprised look on his face. Trish responds by smiling and showing him a ring that she's wearing which the man now recalls giving to her before.
"Oh my gosh", Michael says, still reeling from the surprise "I don't believe it", he said
Trish nods in a positive manner as she smiles. The two exchange hugs.
"I'm not interrupting anything, am I?", Trish asks
"Not a thing", Michael said "Sit down. Have a seat", he adds "I would've though you would've ditched that ring and gotten married by now", he continues, noticing she still has the ring he gave her, which is part of the symbol of their love.
"Whoa....Ditch the ring which you, the one man I almost married (not to mention the one man who made me like the happiest woman on earth) gave to me?", Trish asks "I don't think so", she adds. "Too many fond and happy memories", she continues as she looks at the ring.
"Well....For what it's worth, I still have mine", Michael says, showing his hand to her.
Trish and Michael look into each other's eyes and they skiddishly and nervously put the two rings together side by side as they remember the love they had for each other.
"The two rings still form the symbol of our love", Michael adds.
"I remember when you gave this to me", Trish said "You said no matter where we were, we'd still be together as long as we wore the ring", she adds, trying to fight back tears of joy and happiness "I suppose that's why I never got married", she adds. "You were my guardian angel", she says, filled with emotion and still fighting off tears of joy and happiness.
A waiter stops by, but can obviously tell Michael isn't ready to order. He then moves on.
Meanwhile, at the front door, Rob & Michelle look over at the obvious conversation Trish and Michael are having at his table.
"Who's that guy with Trish", Rob asks out of suspicion
"Dunno", Michelle said "But whoever he is, Trish spotted him as she was sitting over at the bar", she adds
"Think he might be hitting on her?", Rob asks, still suspicious of what's going on at his table
"The two of them seemed to be in a rather intense and emotional conversation when I stopped to take their order", said the waiter who was at Michael's table a few moments earlier
"Maybe we ought to ask him to leave then", Rob cluelessly says
"Whoa....Wait a minute cowboy!", Michelle exclaims "Suppose she and him are having a happy conversation", she hypothetically adds. "Moreover, suppose they're business partners discussing business", she again hypothetically adds. "Do you really want to be the one to tell him he has to leave?", she continues, thinking Rob really wouldn't be stupid enough to put himself in that position.
"No", Rob said. "But people usually aren't around here this late discussing business though", he adds
"Well then you my dear handsome prince, haven't been noticing some of the activity that usually goes on around here", Michelle says with a tone of experience in her voice as she walks away.
**********************************************
SCENE THREE - Gen. Breyton's Office - Baghdad, Iraq
**********************************************
"As such, I think you should tell your wife the truth", Gen. Breyton says, continuing his earlier comment from our last episode
"Sir, I can't", Leo says
"Can't or won't", Gen. Breyton responds
"Sir, do you have any clue what you're asking me to do", Leo asks, almost crying
"I'm saying you should come clean and tell the truth", Gen. Breyton said.
"I may as well tell her that I'm divorcing her because that's exactly what she'll do", Leo insistently says
"Then that's what she does", Gen. Breyton said "You'll just have to deal with it", he adds "But I will not have a man under my command who's pre-occupied with his own personal war to fight the one we were sent here for", Gen. Breyton adamantly says.
"As such, I am ordering you to head over to the Communications Center where you will call your wife and tell her the truth", Gen. Breyton continues
"But sir", Leo says "I can't", he adds.
"Can't or won't, Lieutenant?", Gen. Breyton asks
Leo is at a loss for words as he looks as though he's begging for sympathy from Gen. Breyton, who is offering no such thing.
"I almost find it amazing that this is the same man who just a couple of months ago stood up to gunfire, mortal shells and even grenades, to rescue three of his own buddies in a military rescue operation which earned him three purple hearts I might add. But when it comes to dealing with his own wife, his ducks, cringes, and cries like a baby.
"I've even heard you have a reputation of being a real Johnnie Appleseed around here", Gen. Breyton continued "Didn't really put much stock in it till now", he adds. "But when it came down to that reputation being tested - YOU FAILED", ge. Breyton adds, rubbing salt into Leo's situational wound
"Sir....Is there anything else?", Leo asks, wanting to end this otherwise one-way conversation
"I used to be like you myself", Ge. Breyton said "Looking back on my own experience, I was just as brash, bold, brazen, and Johnnie Appleseedish as are you are - or at least were", Gen. Breyton recalls "But then I got married all that changed", Gen. Breyton continues "Except for the Johnnie Appleseed part", he continues with his lecture
"Then one time while in Vietnam, I too had an affair with another woman while serving my country", he continues "It came back to haunt me", Gen. Breyton said
Leo suddenly becomes more relaxed now that he knows he's not alone
"I didn't tell my wife till after I came back home in '75", Gen. Breyton recalls
"What happened?", Leo asks
"By the time I got back from 'Nam, my wife not only divorced me ex-parte', she also took my kids and my home", Gen. Breyton said. "Had to live on base till I could find a more suitable place to live", he recalls. "On top of that, my C/O at the time had found out about my marital situation since it affected my wages as a military officer, and you know what he told me?", Gen. Breyton asked
"No, what?", Leo responded
"He told me he tried to get me on the next transport plane out", Gen. Breyton said "You see, I too learned of the pregnancy of the woman who I'd been having an affair with while in the middle of a warzone", Gen. Breyton said "And, like you, I quickly became pre-occupied, even obsessed with the situation", Gen. Breyton continues "And I was waging war with myself too".
As a result of the whole thing, I told myself if I ever got someone under my command like that, I'd do exactly what my C/O tried to do.
Leo's mouth instantly turns into a runway for flies at the sound of those words as the thought of being sent home on a transport plane from Iraq sends shivers up and down his spine.
********************************
SCENE FOUR - Stacy & Leo's Home
********************************
"No....No.....That can't be", Cassandra said "Leo told me he wasn't married", she adds
"Well obviously your intel is wrong as I have the ring and the certificate to prove it", Stacy said
"Look....I don't who the fuck you think you are, but I want to see Leo NOW", Cassandra adamantly says "I DEMAND that you to let me see him", Cassandra demands.
"Well first of all, my husband is in the Middle East serving his country", Stacy responds "And secondly, last time I checked, this is still MY property", she adds "so you are in NO POSITION WHATSOVER to be telling me to do shit, Miss Goody Two Shoes", Stacy continues
"So you can take your Miss High-And-Mighty attitude and SHOVE IT UP YOUR FUCKIN' ASS along with your claim of my husband being the father of your child. You are UNAMERICAN, you fuckin' bitch", Stacy responds "Now, if you don't mind, I have a friend stopping by. You know, someone I'm supposed to know. So GET THE FUCK OFF MY PROPERTY YOU FUCKIN' BITCH", she adds as she sees Brad into the driveway and feeling stressed out and the baby kicking inside her.
"You know....For someone who's obviously about to become a mother herself, you seem to be rather liberal with the potty mouth", Cassandra sarcastically says "I don't appreciate people using that kind of language around my child", she adds "Might I offer you a bar of soap", Cassandra asks as she convienently whips out a bar of soap and offers it to Stacy as if Stacy was accepting charity
"You are UNAMERICAN", Stacy says, now seething with anger, her eyes bulging and shooting fire from their sockets and with a look of K I L L on her face, but she stops short of doing anything or saying anything else as Brad walks up, disturbed by what he heard as he was getting out of the car (and now seeing Stacy in the state she's in) and notices Cassandra, whom he knows is a total stranger to him and Stacy.
"You okay Stace", Brad asks as Stacy looks at Cassandra as if she's daring her to do or say anything else. Brad notices this and looks at Cassandra.
"Who are you?", Brad asks, not knowing Cassandra from a hole in the ground
*****************************
SCENE FIVE - Just outside The FonDuLac Restaurant
*****************************
Trish & Michael have just had dinner and are taking a stroll outside as they prepare to leave.
"You know, in a fit of rage, I almost took the ring off when I heard you left town after divorcing Diane", Trish confesses
"There was a point where I thought I'd never see you again either", Michael responded "And I almost took it off myself", he admitted
"You and I have such wonderful memories, lierally growing up together", Trish said
"I know", Michael said "How I wish things would've worked out differently", he adds
"They still can", Trish affectionately says "Remember.....As long as we still have the rings, the symbol of our love, we will always be together", she reminds him.
"Yeah....You're right", Michael admitted "Hate it when you are", he adds with a chuckle
Trish responds with a soft giggle
"It's not like I'm married", Michael adds "And even if I were, our love is stronger than any marriage", he adds
"It sure is", Trish says
Michael smiles
"You know, with all the commotion, you never said why you came back to Cedarville", Trish recalls "So, old friend and dearest lover, what brought you back to town", she curiously asks
"Business I'm afraid", Michael responds "Have a business conference to attend this week", he adds
"Ohh...", Trish says.
"Last time I recall, you said you were going into business yourself", Michael recalls
"Yep", Trish responds. "Real Estate Investor & Interior Decorator", she adds
"Two professions rolled into one, eh?", Michael asked
"Yeah", Trish responds
"Must keep you busy", Michael said
"Sometimes", Trish said.
The two continue their stroll.....
*************************
SCENE SIX - Gen. Breyton's Office - Baghdad, Iraq
*************************
"You're going to put me on a transport plane back to the states?", Leo asks
"Damn straight I am", Gen. Breyton responds
"But....But.....But sir, I....I....I can keep this in check", Leo said, pleading his case
"McFadden, what part of my story did you not understand?", Gen. Breyton asks
"B...B....But sir....", Leo says
"No buts McFadden. It's done", Gen. Breyton said
"I don't understand", Leo said
"McFadden....With you getting those purple hearts, the people back in Cedarville think of you as a hero", Gen. Breyton said "I even hear the mayor is planning to have a parade upon your return", he adds "How do you think most people will react if they learn that you committed adultery while over here?", he asks "You better think about that", he continues
"Sir....With all due respect, I will not board that plane", Leo said
"Oh yes you will", Gen. Breyton said "You'll be on that plane even if I have to throw you on there myself", he adds
"Now you haul your ass over to the Communications Center and you get on the horn with your wife", Gen. Breyton said "Dismissed Lieutenant", he added.
"Under extreme duress....Sir, yes sir", Leo said
Leo walks out of Gen. Breyton's office.
**************************************
On THE NEXT Edition Of AGAINST THE STORM
**************************************
* Leo calls Stacy as per orders from General Breyton. What will he say to her when asked about Cassandra?
* Trish & Michael ponder the idea of getting back together again, but has time finally caught up with them? Has Trish really forgiven him for the events that lead to his departure nearly three years ago?
* Will Brad rethink his position on Jennifer? We he try to help her regain her memory?
* Greg & Courtney have another meeting, but this time with lawyers in tow. What will happen?
Don't miss the next exciting episode.
See you all next time. :-)
This time is Copyright 2005 Pat Cook & Jeeper One Media - All Rights Reserved
Friday, January 14, 2005
Episode 10 - Leo Gets Caught
*******************************************
SCENE ONE - Gen. Breyton's office - Baghdad, Iraq
*******************************************
As we open this episode, we see General Breyton in his office doing some paperwork when his phone rings.
"Gen. Breyton here", he announces to the person on the other end of the line.
"Sir, there's a Lieutenant Leo McFadden here to see you", Melinda, his secretary, exclaims.
"Huh?", Gen. Breyton says, not immediately remembering he had ordered Leo to stop by his office after breakfast.
"He says you ordered you ordered him to stop by", Melinda says
"Uhhh....Ohhh...YES...Yes....Yes. I remember now", Gen. Breyton says, now remembering his earlier conversation with Leo. "Send him in", he orders.
"Yes sir. Right away sir", Melinda responds.
Gen. Breyton hangs up the phone. A few seconds later, Leo walks in.
"You wanted to see me sir?", Leo asks.
"Close the door", Gen. Breyton says.
"Yes sir", Leo says as he closes the door behind him.
"Do you have any idea WHY I asked you to see me?", Gen. Breyton asks, thinking Leo has some idea. "Any clue at all?", he continues.
"Because you ordered me too?" Leo asks, looking and sounding as though he might be missing the point.
"Lt., would it be safe to say that you're umm....shall we say....active?", Gen. Breyton asks.
Leo looks dumbfounded and totally lost
"I'm not sure I know what you mean sir", Leo responds
"I mean sexually", Gen. Breyton says, getting to the point
Leo struggles not to laugh in front of Gen. Breyton, but can't help himself as he sort of smiles and lets out a few chuckles.
"Sir, off the record?", Leo asks as he composes himself and assuming their conversation was somehow being recorded as per usual military protocol.
"We're not even on the record Lieutenant - yet", Gen. Breyton responds.
"Okay then.....Sir, no disrespect meant, but I don't think that's any of your business", Leo exclaims, stopping short of getting personal with Gen. Breyton.
"When it comes to the men and women on this battlefield and where their minds are focused, believe me, IT IS my business", Gen. Breyton exclaims in response
"Umm....Okay", Leo says, still trying to figure out where Gen. Breyton is taking the conversation.
"Now....Umm....I see a lot of things on this base", Gen. Breyton says. "I also HEAR a lot of things too", Gen. Breyton continues before Leo could respond if he so chose
"Much of what I hear is just stuff for the rumor mill", he continues.
"But what's NOT destined for the rumor mill is what I've been hearing about two soldiers of equal rank IN MY COMMAND having sex while in the back of an Apache Helicopter.
"Well I should think that would be a pretty serious offense sir", Leo says "But I fail to see what that has to do with me sir", Leo continues.
"Well, that's a bit of a surprise", Gen. Breyton says "Because EACH & EVERY time someone on base brings up the subject within my earshot, YOUR NAME IS THE FIRST ONE THAT COMES UP!", Gen. Breyton exclaims
This sends a jolt through Leo as he thinks of all the potatoes he will be stuck peeling for the next week for the mess hall cooks.
*************************************************
SCENE TWO - Waiting Room - Chippequah Memorial Hospital
*************************************************
"I've got an idea", Marcie says
"What's that?", Stephanie asks
"Let's test her memory loss", Marcie says
"How will we do that", Stephanie asks
"Easy", Marcie says. "Be blunt with her", she continues.
David looks up from the magazine he was reading and looks at Marcie as though she herself has lost her mind
"Are you crazy?", David asks "You saw how she reacted", he continues
"David, what have we got to lose?", Stephanie asks. "Afterall, we are dealing with Jennifer, you know", she continues
"Yeah, but even so, did either of you notice that dazed look on her face", David asks. "Not even she is capable of faking something like that and make it look real", he continues "We're total strangers to her", David exclaims "She doesn't remember us", David says
"Either that or she doesn't want to", Stephanie says with a bit of cynicism.
"Right", Marcie says. "But we won't know that until we test her", she continues
"I think you're both insane, but I'll go along with it", David says "Somebody has to be there to do damage control", he continues
"Great then. Let's go.", Marcie says "We've only got 10 more minutes until visiting hours are over for the day", she continues as she grabs her stuff and heads for Jennifer's room. David relunctantly follows as Stephanie follows Marcie.
*********************************
SCENE THREE - Gen. Breyton's Office - Baghdad, Iraq
*********************************
"Now then, I can't do anything about the past or things which aren't reported to me", Gen. Breyton says, knowing he has Leo's full and undivided attention "But I can do something about now and the future and things which I have knowledge of".
Gen. Breyton's secretary Melinda sticks her head in the door.
"Sir....Gen. Fulcher is on line 3", Melinda says.
"Not now Melinda", Gen. Breyton says "Take a message", he orders.
"Sir, if you have a phone call.....", Leo says, getting Melinda's attention just as she acknowledges the order and starts to close the door. He then starts to make a leave, knowing he doesn't want to hear what Gen. Breyton may have in mind.
"ATTENTION", Gen. Breyton barks out, getting both Melinda, even though she's a civilian support worker, and Leo to react and respond to authority.
"First off....", Gen. Breyton says, noticing the scene he's caused "Melinda....While I admire your respect for military protocol, you're not military. Therefore, you do not need to stand at attention", he adds
Melinda resumes normal civilian stance and exhales breath as though she was intentionally holding it in during her attempt at standing a full military attention.
"On top of that, you are dismissed and have your orders. Carry them out", he says.
She closes the door as she leaves.
"Now as for you McFadden....", the Gen. continues "You wouldn't happen to know a woman named Cassandra Whitmore, would you?"
"Sir, yes sir", Leo answers in a tone of regret, but still at full military attention
"She's the second name that came up", Gen. Breyton says. "From what I hear, the two of you had quite a romp in the back of that helicopter", the Gen. adds.
"Sir, yes sir", Leo says, still in the same regretful tone
"Well...I would imagine you've been told by now that she was sent home due to pregnancy", Gen. Breyton says.
"Sir, yes sir", Leo says in a bit more normal voice
"It's also my understanding that you're married, correct?", Gen. Breyton asks
"Sir, yes sir", Leo repeats, this time knowing he's been caught
"Does your wife know about your "tryst' with Lt. Whitmore?", Gen. Breyton asks
"Sir, off the record?", Leo requests.
"Okay, but at ease now", Gen. Breyton responds
"It's none of your business sir", Leo exclaims
"As I said before McFadden, when it comes to the men and women under my command in this battlefield, whatever personal matters they are pre-occupied with IS my business", Gen. Breyton responds.
Leo now knows he's at the mercy of Gen. Breyton and looks as if he's begging for it.
******************************************
SCENE FOUR - Chippequah Memorial Hospital
******************************************
"Girls....Lemme call Brad first", David says
"Do you honestly think Brad is going to want any part of Jennifer?", Stephanie says
"Won't know unless we ask", David says as he whips out his cell phone.
"You're probably right. But Brad's probably still at The FonDu Lac working", Stephanie says, anxious to see Jennifer again
"We don't have much time sweetie", Marcie says as David dials up the number to The FonDuLac Hotel, where Brad works as Manager.
"Hello?", Brad says
"Hey Brad, it's me", David says
"David, what's up? Did you guys find Jennifer?", Brad asks
"Yeah we did, but there's a problem", David says
"Oh yeah, what could that be?", Brad sarcastically asks
"She has no memory", David tells Brad
"Sweetie, time's a wastin", Marcie whispers in David's ear. David brushes her off.
"Yeah....Just like her", Brad sarcastically says "That's what she wants you to believe", he adds
"Yeah....Well for what it might be worth to you, we're here at Chippequah Memorial Hospital and Marcie, Stephanie and I are about to test her memory loss. Marcie's idea. If you can bring yourself to come on down and help us out, it'd be much appreciated", David says
"Yeah....Well no offense dude, but if she's down in Chippequah, she can stay there for all I care as I'm through with her", Brad exclaims.
Before David can get another word in edgewise, we hear a clicking sound coming out of David's phone that's indicative of Brad hanging up on David.
"Now can we go in and try things MY way?", Marcie asks
"Yeah", David says "So much for a Plan B", he adds.
We now find Jennifer in her room laying down when David, Marcie & Stephanie walk in. Stephanie and Marcie have skeptical looks on their faces. David is emotionless.
"Hello again", Jane/Jennifer says "I'm afraid I still don't know who you are", she adds.
"You can cut the crap now Jennifer", Marcie exclaims
Jane/Jennifer has a look of surprise on her face.
"What? Excuse me?" she says
"Do you have any idea how many people who were worried about you Jennifer?", Stephanie angrily asks "ANY idea at all?", she continues
"I don't know what you're talking about", Jennifer/Jane says, now fearful of what might happen next
"We're talking about the accident", Marcie says "Was it an accident or did you try to kill yourself?" she continues "Do you have ANY clue as to the harm to our family you've caused?", she adds
"We've been worried sick over you", Stephanie says "We didn't know where you were", she continues "Why didn't you call? Why didn't you have someone here at the hospital here call us?" she adds
"I swear I don't know you", Jane/Jennifer says, now crying "I don't know....", she says as she's breaks down in tears.
Dr. Mathieson walks in and sees Jane/Jennifer in tears.
"You need to leave - NOW", Dr. Mathieson commands
"We were only testing her memory loss", Marcie says
"She has a history of lying, doctor", Stephanie says "We had to put her through this to find out if she's lying to us or not", she adds
"I could've told you that myself", Dr. Mathieson angrily responds "I thought I made myself perfectly clear to you when I said she had no memory", he continues "Now, please leave before I call security", he adds
"Of course", David says, dragging the two ladies out with him.
"Well....That went worse than I thought it would" David sarcastically says, rubbing things in even further as he, Stephanie and Marcie stand outside Jennifer's room looking in as Dr. Mathieson comforts Jennifer "Are you happy now?", David asks, looking mostly at his trembling wife Marcie. Stephanie is in tears too.
"Please David....Just shaddup. Just shut the fuck up", Marcie says, pleading with him to not rub things in further as she wipes away her tears.
"Let's just get out of here and go back to the hotel. Okay?", Stephanie pleads
"We should've done that in the first place while we were ahead", David says. "Let's go", he adds as the three of them look for the elevators.
******************************************
SCENE FIVE - Leo & Stacy's Home
******************************************
Stacy is seen sitting in her rocking chair with the remote control to the TV in her hand. She's channel-surfing in ann attempt to find something good to watch, but is getting frustrated with every channel change she makes.
"Ugh....There's NOTHING good on TV tonight", Stacy says to herself as she presses the OFF button on the Remote Control "Maybe I'll pop in a DVD or something", she says.
Suddenly the phone rings.
Rrrrriiiinnnngggg.....Rrrriiiinnnngggg the phone shrieks in its high pitched pulse tone as Stacy walks over to pick up the receiver.
"Hello?", she says
"Hey Stace, it's me, Brad", Brad says on the other end of the line, calling from the hotel where he works
"Ohh...Hi Brad. What's up?", Stacy asks
"Ohh...Not much", Brad says in response. "What's up with you?", he curiously asks
"Not much. Bored as hell. Nothin' on TV. Was just gonna pop in a DVD when you called", she says
"Well...How 'bout I stop on by then and....you know.....just talk? You know....Just bullshit", Brad offers "I'm off in about 30 minutes, so do you suppose I could see you in 45?", he asks.
"Sure." she says. "I don't see anything wrong with that", she continues.
"Great. See you then", Brad says
"Sure. Come on over.", Stacy says.
She hangs up the phone after Brad disconnects on his end and just gets sat down again when the doorbell rings.
Ding Dong, the doorbell cheerfully sounds. Stacy goes over to answer the door.
"That can't possibly be Brad", she says to herself. "Oh well...Maybe it's Trish", she continues as she reaches the door.
She then looks through the peephole, only to find it's a woman she doesn't know with what appears to be a baby. Stacy tentatively opens the door.
"May I help you?", Stacy asks
"Is this Leo McFadden's house?", Cassandra asks with a surprised look on her face.
"Who are you?", Stacy asks, demanding an answer
"I'm Cassandra Whitmore", Cassandra says "I'm the mother of his son".
She then brings Baby Christopher out.
"This our little boy Christopher. Doesn't he look just like Leo?" Cassandra asks batting her eyebrows and smiling as Stacy looks down at Christopher, wanting to deny the looks, but unable to do so.
As the episode closes, Stacy looks as though she's been punched in the gut as Cassandra continues to smile and rapidly bat her eyebrows.
********************************************************
On THE NEXT Edition Of AGAINST THE STORM
********************************************************
* Stacy confronts Leo about Cassandra. What will he say? What will Gen. Breyton do now that Leo's caught?
* Will Brad rethink his position on Jennifer? We he try to help her regain her memory?
* Greg & Courtney have another meeting, but this time with lawyers in tow. What will happen?
Don't miss the next exciting episode.
See you all next time. :-)
This show is Copyright 2005 Pat Cook & Jeeper One Media - All Rights Reserved
SCENE ONE - Gen. Breyton's office - Baghdad, Iraq
*******************************************
As we open this episode, we see General Breyton in his office doing some paperwork when his phone rings.
"Gen. Breyton here", he announces to the person on the other end of the line.
"Sir, there's a Lieutenant Leo McFadden here to see you", Melinda, his secretary, exclaims.
"Huh?", Gen. Breyton says, not immediately remembering he had ordered Leo to stop by his office after breakfast.
"He says you ordered you ordered him to stop by", Melinda says
"Uhhh....Ohhh...YES...Yes....Yes. I remember now", Gen. Breyton says, now remembering his earlier conversation with Leo. "Send him in", he orders.
"Yes sir. Right away sir", Melinda responds.
Gen. Breyton hangs up the phone. A few seconds later, Leo walks in.
"You wanted to see me sir?", Leo asks.
"Close the door", Gen. Breyton says.
"Yes sir", Leo says as he closes the door behind him.
"Do you have any idea WHY I asked you to see me?", Gen. Breyton asks, thinking Leo has some idea. "Any clue at all?", he continues.
"Because you ordered me too?" Leo asks, looking and sounding as though he might be missing the point.
"Lt., would it be safe to say that you're umm....shall we say....active?", Gen. Breyton asks.
Leo looks dumbfounded and totally lost
"I'm not sure I know what you mean sir", Leo responds
"I mean sexually", Gen. Breyton says, getting to the point
Leo struggles not to laugh in front of Gen. Breyton, but can't help himself as he sort of smiles and lets out a few chuckles.
"Sir, off the record?", Leo asks as he composes himself and assuming their conversation was somehow being recorded as per usual military protocol.
"We're not even on the record Lieutenant - yet", Gen. Breyton responds.
"Okay then.....Sir, no disrespect meant, but I don't think that's any of your business", Leo exclaims, stopping short of getting personal with Gen. Breyton.
"When it comes to the men and women on this battlefield and where their minds are focused, believe me, IT IS my business", Gen. Breyton exclaims in response
"Umm....Okay", Leo says, still trying to figure out where Gen. Breyton is taking the conversation.
"Now....Umm....I see a lot of things on this base", Gen. Breyton says. "I also HEAR a lot of things too", Gen. Breyton continues before Leo could respond if he so chose
"Much of what I hear is just stuff for the rumor mill", he continues.
"But what's NOT destined for the rumor mill is what I've been hearing about two soldiers of equal rank IN MY COMMAND having sex while in the back of an Apache Helicopter.
"Well I should think that would be a pretty serious offense sir", Leo says "But I fail to see what that has to do with me sir", Leo continues.
"Well, that's a bit of a surprise", Gen. Breyton says "Because EACH & EVERY time someone on base brings up the subject within my earshot, YOUR NAME IS THE FIRST ONE THAT COMES UP!", Gen. Breyton exclaims
This sends a jolt through Leo as he thinks of all the potatoes he will be stuck peeling for the next week for the mess hall cooks.
*************************************************
SCENE TWO - Waiting Room - Chippequah Memorial Hospital
*************************************************
"I've got an idea", Marcie says
"What's that?", Stephanie asks
"Let's test her memory loss", Marcie says
"How will we do that", Stephanie asks
"Easy", Marcie says. "Be blunt with her", she continues.
David looks up from the magazine he was reading and looks at Marcie as though she herself has lost her mind
"Are you crazy?", David asks "You saw how she reacted", he continues
"David, what have we got to lose?", Stephanie asks. "Afterall, we are dealing with Jennifer, you know", she continues
"Yeah, but even so, did either of you notice that dazed look on her face", David asks. "Not even she is capable of faking something like that and make it look real", he continues "We're total strangers to her", David exclaims "She doesn't remember us", David says
"Either that or she doesn't want to", Stephanie says with a bit of cynicism.
"Right", Marcie says. "But we won't know that until we test her", she continues
"I think you're both insane, but I'll go along with it", David says "Somebody has to be there to do damage control", he continues
"Great then. Let's go.", Marcie says "We've only got 10 more minutes until visiting hours are over for the day", she continues as she grabs her stuff and heads for Jennifer's room. David relunctantly follows as Stephanie follows Marcie.
*********************************
SCENE THREE - Gen. Breyton's Office - Baghdad, Iraq
*********************************
"Now then, I can't do anything about the past or things which aren't reported to me", Gen. Breyton says, knowing he has Leo's full and undivided attention "But I can do something about now and the future and things which I have knowledge of".
Gen. Breyton's secretary Melinda sticks her head in the door.
"Sir....Gen. Fulcher is on line 3", Melinda says.
"Not now Melinda", Gen. Breyton says "Take a message", he orders.
"Sir, if you have a phone call.....", Leo says, getting Melinda's attention just as she acknowledges the order and starts to close the door. He then starts to make a leave, knowing he doesn't want to hear what Gen. Breyton may have in mind.
"ATTENTION", Gen. Breyton barks out, getting both Melinda, even though she's a civilian support worker, and Leo to react and respond to authority.
"First off....", Gen. Breyton says, noticing the scene he's caused "Melinda....While I admire your respect for military protocol, you're not military. Therefore, you do not need to stand at attention", he adds
Melinda resumes normal civilian stance and exhales breath as though she was intentionally holding it in during her attempt at standing a full military attention.
"On top of that, you are dismissed and have your orders. Carry them out", he says.
She closes the door as she leaves.
"Now as for you McFadden....", the Gen. continues "You wouldn't happen to know a woman named Cassandra Whitmore, would you?"
"Sir, yes sir", Leo answers in a tone of regret, but still at full military attention
"She's the second name that came up", Gen. Breyton says. "From what I hear, the two of you had quite a romp in the back of that helicopter", the Gen. adds.
"Sir, yes sir", Leo says, still in the same regretful tone
"Well...I would imagine you've been told by now that she was sent home due to pregnancy", Gen. Breyton says.
"Sir, yes sir", Leo says in a bit more normal voice
"It's also my understanding that you're married, correct?", Gen. Breyton asks
"Sir, yes sir", Leo repeats, this time knowing he's been caught
"Does your wife know about your "tryst' with Lt. Whitmore?", Gen. Breyton asks
"Sir, off the record?", Leo requests.
"Okay, but at ease now", Gen. Breyton responds
"It's none of your business sir", Leo exclaims
"As I said before McFadden, when it comes to the men and women under my command in this battlefield, whatever personal matters they are pre-occupied with IS my business", Gen. Breyton responds.
Leo now knows he's at the mercy of Gen. Breyton and looks as if he's begging for it.
******************************************
SCENE FOUR - Chippequah Memorial Hospital
******************************************
"Girls....Lemme call Brad first", David says
"Do you honestly think Brad is going to want any part of Jennifer?", Stephanie says
"Won't know unless we ask", David says as he whips out his cell phone.
"You're probably right. But Brad's probably still at The FonDu Lac working", Stephanie says, anxious to see Jennifer again
"We don't have much time sweetie", Marcie says as David dials up the number to The FonDuLac Hotel, where Brad works as Manager.
"Hello?", Brad says
"Hey Brad, it's me", David says
"David, what's up? Did you guys find Jennifer?", Brad asks
"Yeah we did, but there's a problem", David says
"Oh yeah, what could that be?", Brad sarcastically asks
"She has no memory", David tells Brad
"Sweetie, time's a wastin", Marcie whispers in David's ear. David brushes her off.
"Yeah....Just like her", Brad sarcastically says "That's what she wants you to believe", he adds
"Yeah....Well for what it might be worth to you, we're here at Chippequah Memorial Hospital and Marcie, Stephanie and I are about to test her memory loss. Marcie's idea. If you can bring yourself to come on down and help us out, it'd be much appreciated", David says
"Yeah....Well no offense dude, but if she's down in Chippequah, she can stay there for all I care as I'm through with her", Brad exclaims.
Before David can get another word in edgewise, we hear a clicking sound coming out of David's phone that's indicative of Brad hanging up on David.
"Now can we go in and try things MY way?", Marcie asks
"Yeah", David says "So much for a Plan B", he adds.
We now find Jennifer in her room laying down when David, Marcie & Stephanie walk in. Stephanie and Marcie have skeptical looks on their faces. David is emotionless.
"Hello again", Jane/Jennifer says "I'm afraid I still don't know who you are", she adds.
"You can cut the crap now Jennifer", Marcie exclaims
Jane/Jennifer has a look of surprise on her face.
"What? Excuse me?" she says
"Do you have any idea how many people who were worried about you Jennifer?", Stephanie angrily asks "ANY idea at all?", she continues
"I don't know what you're talking about", Jennifer/Jane says, now fearful of what might happen next
"We're talking about the accident", Marcie says "Was it an accident or did you try to kill yourself?" she continues "Do you have ANY clue as to the harm to our family you've caused?", she adds
"We've been worried sick over you", Stephanie says "We didn't know where you were", she continues "Why didn't you call? Why didn't you have someone here at the hospital here call us?" she adds
"I swear I don't know you", Jane/Jennifer says, now crying "I don't know....", she says as she's breaks down in tears.
Dr. Mathieson walks in and sees Jane/Jennifer in tears.
"You need to leave - NOW", Dr. Mathieson commands
"We were only testing her memory loss", Marcie says
"She has a history of lying, doctor", Stephanie says "We had to put her through this to find out if she's lying to us or not", she adds
"I could've told you that myself", Dr. Mathieson angrily responds "I thought I made myself perfectly clear to you when I said she had no memory", he continues "Now, please leave before I call security", he adds
"Of course", David says, dragging the two ladies out with him.
"Well....That went worse than I thought it would" David sarcastically says, rubbing things in even further as he, Stephanie and Marcie stand outside Jennifer's room looking in as Dr. Mathieson comforts Jennifer "Are you happy now?", David asks, looking mostly at his trembling wife Marcie. Stephanie is in tears too.
"Please David....Just shaddup. Just shut the fuck up", Marcie says, pleading with him to not rub things in further as she wipes away her tears.
"Let's just get out of here and go back to the hotel. Okay?", Stephanie pleads
"We should've done that in the first place while we were ahead", David says. "Let's go", he adds as the three of them look for the elevators.
******************************************
SCENE FIVE - Leo & Stacy's Home
******************************************
Stacy is seen sitting in her rocking chair with the remote control to the TV in her hand. She's channel-surfing in ann attempt to find something good to watch, but is getting frustrated with every channel change she makes.
"Ugh....There's NOTHING good on TV tonight", Stacy says to herself as she presses the OFF button on the Remote Control "Maybe I'll pop in a DVD or something", she says.
Suddenly the phone rings.
Rrrrriiiinnnngggg.....Rrrriiiinnnngggg the phone shrieks in its high pitched pulse tone as Stacy walks over to pick up the receiver.
"Hello?", she says
"Hey Stace, it's me, Brad", Brad says on the other end of the line, calling from the hotel where he works
"Ohh...Hi Brad. What's up?", Stacy asks
"Ohh...Not much", Brad says in response. "What's up with you?", he curiously asks
"Not much. Bored as hell. Nothin' on TV. Was just gonna pop in a DVD when you called", she says
"Well...How 'bout I stop on by then and....you know.....just talk? You know....Just bullshit", Brad offers "I'm off in about 30 minutes, so do you suppose I could see you in 45?", he asks.
"Sure." she says. "I don't see anything wrong with that", she continues.
"Great. See you then", Brad says
"Sure. Come on over.", Stacy says.
She hangs up the phone after Brad disconnects on his end and just gets sat down again when the doorbell rings.
Ding Dong, the doorbell cheerfully sounds. Stacy goes over to answer the door.
"That can't possibly be Brad", she says to herself. "Oh well...Maybe it's Trish", she continues as she reaches the door.
She then looks through the peephole, only to find it's a woman she doesn't know with what appears to be a baby. Stacy tentatively opens the door.
"May I help you?", Stacy asks
"Is this Leo McFadden's house?", Cassandra asks with a surprised look on her face.
"Who are you?", Stacy asks, demanding an answer
"I'm Cassandra Whitmore", Cassandra says "I'm the mother of his son".
She then brings Baby Christopher out.
"This our little boy Christopher. Doesn't he look just like Leo?" Cassandra asks batting her eyebrows and smiling as Stacy looks down at Christopher, wanting to deny the looks, but unable to do so.
As the episode closes, Stacy looks as though she's been punched in the gut as Cassandra continues to smile and rapidly bat her eyebrows.
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On THE NEXT Edition Of AGAINST THE STORM
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* Stacy confronts Leo about Cassandra. What will he say? What will Gen. Breyton do now that Leo's caught?
* Will Brad rethink his position on Jennifer? We he try to help her regain her memory?
* Greg & Courtney have another meeting, but this time with lawyers in tow. What will happen?
Don't miss the next exciting episode.
See you all next time. :-)
This show is Copyright 2005 Pat Cook & Jeeper One Media - All Rights Reserved
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