Angel Faces: Part 3 (Finale)

Angel Faces: Part 3 (Finale)

Scene 1

(The year was 1973. Nixon High School was buzzing. It was the eve of the high school prom. The cheer leaders scurried across the corridors to their final training sessions. The geeks rushed to their lab sessions, whilst the football players strode off to the field to practice. There was an air of segregation in the corridors. The Goths stood alone isolated from the rest of the school, whilst the new breed hippies didn’t even come into school. They sat in groups outside on the grass smoking marijuana whilst lapping up the burning sunshine. Helen giggled as they walked past a group of hippies. They pointed and laughed as they walked past them.)

Helen: Those guys suck! Like what do they stand for?

Rose: (Mockingly) Peace on earth dude, the government are crazy dude. Like dude! Oh Dude! Come on dude!

Helen : Hahaha!

Rose: They can’t be worse than those guys.

(Rose points at a group of guys leaving the maths room.)

Rose: Nerdddd!

Helen: Nerdddddd! Haha

Rose: No way are those guys allowed to go to the prom!

Helen: I hope the principal kicks them out when he sees them.

(Jason strides over confidently to Helen holding his football helmet, he pulls her towards him.)

Jason: Hey baby.

Helen: Hi Baby!

Jason: You got that sexy red dress for tonight?

Helen: (Blushes) Maybe.

Jason: You better.

He pulls close to her and stares into her eyes. He chews his chewing gum slowly and moves even closer. Helen is mesmorized by Jason’s stature and physique. His chiselled features had her in a gaze.)

Jason: (Whispers in her ear) you won’t be wearing that dress when the night is done.

(He kisses her on the cheek.)

Helen: See you tonight cutie pie.

(Rose and Helen both giggle as Jason and his friends walk out.)

(Brian looks over and gets eye contact from Helen, he blushes scarlet red. He smiles at her and she glares at him in disgust. He turns away.)

Jack: Look Brian we are the lowest in the food chain. Just accept it, you don’t stand a chance with a girl like Helen. Just accept that and you will be happy.

Brian: She’s just so pretty.

Jack: Exactly! She’s too pretty! In life we just have to settle for the four out of tens, I’ll be happy with a five!

Brian: Ok Jack we know your good at math but you can’t apply that to chicks man!

Jack: What do you know about chicks? Speaking of chicks have you got a date for tonight?

Brian: No, you ?

Jack: I did but I she bailed on me last minute.

Brian: Liz?

 Jack: (Sighs) Yes the lovely Liz the love of my life.

Brian: Look we can go with Todd and Jamie, four dudes deep at least we won’t look like complete lame asses.

(

Jack gives Brian a high five.)

(

Later that night the Sports hall is filled with students. Bob Dylan’s ‘Like a rolling Stone’ could be heard loud in the background. The atmosphere is buzzing. There is an air of happiness and sadness as some of them say their last goodbyes. Some of them were travelling abroad or going off to different universities across America. Brian walks in with Jack and the rest of his small entourage. There is an outbreak of laughter as they walk in. Their suits were incredibly tight and vibrantly coloured. Brian had grease dripping from his hair onto his shoulders. Jason stood with his pack of footballers in the middle of the dance floor eying up several females in the area. Several girls swooned over Jason and his batch. In the corner of his eye he saw Helen walking towards him.)

Helen: Hey baby! You like my dress?

Jason: Damn! Helen! You look too good!

Helen: Aren’t you lucky?

Jason: (Flexes his biceps.) We’re both lucky baby!

Helen: Let’s dance!

(The Jackson 5 “I want you back” blazed through the speakers. The whole place was in a frenzy.)

Helen: (Shouts through the music) I’m heading off to the toilet sweetie pie! I’ll be back.

Jason: Don’t take too long!

(As she speeds off Brian leers at her, his friends notice this and laugh at him. Helen rushes back into the hall with Rose. She stands in shock as she sees Jason kissing Grace on the dancefloor.)

Helen: What the hell is this Jason!

Jason: What does it look like ?

Helen: But?

Jason: But? Don’t worry you can get in on this action too, you just have to wait in line.

(Tears pour from Helen’s eyes.)

Helen: But Jason I love you! How could you do this!?

Jason: I’m the top man on campus I have fans, you just got to deal with it.

(Helen runs into the back sobbing. Grace and Jason laugh as she peels off.)

Brian: There’s Liz! She’s by herself go and say hi! She’s alone! Don’t be a wimp

(Jack immediately stands with confidence, he pushes his glasses up his nose and walks towards her. Before he gets to her he is abruptly stopped by John.)

John: Back up nerd! She’s my date! You want a knuckle sandwich?

Jack: But?

John: You nerds are so clever but can’t follow simple instructions.

(He shoves Jack in his chest. Jack walks back meekly to his group. Brian glares at John, he has always hated him. Suddenly Brian puts his middle finger up in John’s face.)

Brian: How does that look Johnny boy!

(John is irate. He rushes towards Brian and knocks him down with one blow. When Brian stands up the room is spinning, his words are slurred, he turns back and leaves the hall. He runs down the corridor and notices the changing room open. His temporarily blurred vision stops him noticing it is the female locker room. He bursts in and sees Helen in tears.)

Brian: Oh God! I’m so sorry!

Helen: It’s alright. It’s just us two losers. My night is ruined.

Brian: Mine hasn’t gone so great either.

Helen: Who did that?

Brian: John. But you should see him…

Helen: You need a tissue? Here you go.

Brian: Thanks. What’s up with you?

Helen: Politics is up with me.

Brian: Sorry to hear that.

(He sits closer to Helen, wiping his nose.)

Helen: Your glasses are broken. It’s good you look cute without them on.

Brian: (Smiles) Thanks, you look cute all the time.

Helen: (Laughs) Thanks. Don’t worry they are all assholes, the whole team and cheer leaders. I heard you’re going to Havard. You will be something one day I suppose.

Brian: Yes I did but I’m not going there. I’m going to Lincoln State.

Helen: I’m going there too.

Brian: Really?

Helen: Maybe you can help me study?

Brian: Haha. Maybe!

End Scene

Scene 2

(The year is 1984. Brian is in his apartment with Ana.)

Ana: So Brian, what is the executive decision? I don’t deserve this. I will walk out just say the words!

(Brian stares nonchalantly. His body language is calm and relaxed. He stares into her eyes and she stares back. She is shaking with fury.)

Brian: If you want to go, there is the door. Leave, I won’t hold you back.

(Ana bursts into tears and leaves the house without closing the door behind her. Brian strolls over and quietly shuts the door. He turns off the light and heads upstairs.)

Ana: Hey Sis! Sorry to call you at this time. Is it ok if I stay with you tonight? I just had a fight with 

Brian I’m just such a mess right now.

Susan: Where are you now?

Ana: I’m a few blocks away.

Susan: Ok! Hurry! It’s getting dark

(Ana walks briskly as she approaches her sister’s house, she presses the buzzer and Susan opens the door. Susan embraces her tightly and wipes the tears off Ana’s face.)

Susan: That guy is not worth your tears Ana! I haven’t seen you cry since we were kids.

Ana: I don’t know what I did wrong. I was good to him, I treated him like a king but I guess that’s not enough.

Susan: You know these guys, they can’t be serious and he is rich! His head is probably always up his…

Ana: But he has a soft side! I’ve seen it, there is something about that…

Susan: Man oh man! Please don’t fall for that, he has taken enough chances, focus on yourself. 

Before you know it you will be as rich as him, you’re coming up fast! You’re making us proud. Keep focused.

Ana: It’s not about money, you don’t understand.

Susan: I might not know much but he has you crying like a baby.

(Ana wipes off her make up and washes her face. She can see Susan smiling at her in the reflection of the mirror.)

Ana: What?

Susan: You have the love bug! You still have to work with him as well, that sucks.

Ana: I love him but I still have to stay focused.

(Brian sat at his desk sending emails to various business associates. It was late but business never sleeps. He was finalising a few deals and contracts. He looked over and saw his phone ringing.)

Brian: Hello? Who is this?

Nick: You son of a …

Brian: Nick!

Nick: What’s up brother! I haven’t seen you in a while!

Brian: I’ve been busy as usual, you know how it is.

Nick: Ana been keeping you busy.

Brian: She’s not around anymore.

Nick: Already? I can’t keep up with you Mac Daddy! One day you have a woman the next minute you terminate them like they’re some kind of employee.

Brian:Technically she is my employye, just another employe that didn't meet the requirements. In life you have to make cuts to move forward. Anything that isn’t adding to my life needs to get cut out. Can’t let a girl get in the way of what I’m doing.

Nick: You’re doing pretty damn good as well! I bet you will pick up another one soon though!

Brian: No I think I’ve had my fair share of drama and relationships that just seem to implode. Women are a distraction and a waste of time. Ana was nice but everyone before her didn’t offer me jack! So screw it, it is what it is.

Nick: Wow your being serious? You won’t give her a chance, Ana was lovely maybe you should…

Brian: My life can’t revolve around these ladies. I will call you tomorrow my good friend.

(Brian hangs up and stretches his arms into the air. He continues to read through his email, he laughs as he notices his inbox is almost up to one thousand.)

Brian: Damn I got to delete these, wait a minute what the hell?

(He notices a fresh email from Helen. He presses delete immediately but the computer does not comply, he is furiously clicking delete but the computer freezes. He bangs his fists on the keyboard. He stares at the screen in fury. Her email slowly opens in front of him. He begins to read it slowly.)

Helen: Dearly beloved friends you are cordially invited to the wedding of Marcus and Helen Davids. The wedding will take place at…

(Brian presses the power button. He is infuriated by the email. He punched the computer screen in anger.)

Brian: Damn! How the hell could she send me that! How is she getting married already? Did she really think I was going to come to the wedding? My goodness! I’m done!

End Scene

Scene 3

(The year is 1978. Jazz hits could be heard bumping through the speakers. The atmosphere in Angel faces was very serene and intimate. The DJ proceeded to play slow, seductive jazz songs to compliment the Valentine’s day occasion. The bar was not that busy. The occasion seemed to slow everybody down.)

Tracy: So was that a double Vodka and Coke.

(Tracey proceeded to mix the drinks and serve them to the young couple. She kept looking at the time as she was meant to go on her date. It was her one year anniversary with Bobby. He had promised to take her somewhere but he kept it a secret.)

Pamela: Girl you must be excited! Where is Prince Charming taking you?

Tracy: I wish I knew girl! He doesn’t want to tell me, says it’s somewhere secret.

Pamela: At least he isn’t predictable as these other guys out there.

Tracey: I do love my man.

(They both giggle. Tracey washes the last glass and goes to the back to put on her make up. Bobby was to arrive any minute from now.)

Tracey: (Sings) Here comes my baby! Here comes my baby!

(Her phone vibrates. She opens the voicemail.)

Bobby: Hey baby I’ve been trying to call you! I can’t make it tonight I think I’ve got the stomach bug. I feel really rough I will make it up to you!

(She smiled as she hung up the phone. She giggled as she recalled her warning Bobby he ate too much. She texted back “I love you”. She walked out the bar and hopped into a taxi to take her home. As the taxi flew through the empty streets Tracey had a sudden change of heart.)

Tracey: Driver! Could you head down 54^th street.

Driver: No problem Ma’am!

(Tracey thought it would be a good idea if she visited Bobby just to see how he was. It wouldn’t be romantic him being sick but at least she could look after him. They driver pulled up to his apartment. Her heart was pounding in excitement. She could see the lights dimly lit and rose petals on the cobbled path to his front door. His cock and bull about being ill was a diversion. He knew she would come over!)

Tracey: (Muttered) Bobby! My baby you sly fox!

(She bounded up to the front door and pressed the doorbell. She beamed in excitement as she could hear slow songs coming from the living room. It was the same playlist she had given him last year. To her shock a tall blonde lady opened the front door. She was beautiful, bright blue eyes and long blonde her.)

Tracey: Umm

Lady: Can I help you?

Tracey: You can start by telling me who the hell you are? I’m here for my boyfriend you creep!

Lady: Bobby? Haha Bobby! This freak at the front door says she is your girlfriend.

Tracey: My name is Tracey!

Lady: Don’t shout it is very late, they neighbours will be livid.

Bobby: (Calls down) Baby shut the door!

Tracey: Bobby! Whats going on? It’s Tracey!

Bobby: Who the hell is Tracey? Baby shut the door it’s going to get cold here.

Lady: Hit the bricks!

Tracey: But Bobby…

(The blonde lady slams the door in her face. Tracey begins to sob.)

End Scene

Scene 4

(The year is 1984, present day. Brian is in his office at his desk. The business is booming at the company. They had not seen numbers like this in several years. Since his break up with Ana he became more focused almost obsessed with pushing for fortune at the company. However the success did not please his employees. They were working longer hours, they were getting more money but they were not happy.)

Brian: As you can see the numbers are sky high! We need to maintain this! Before you know it we would have killed all of our competition.

Robert: I didn’t' realise we were in competition with others.

Brian: We kill all competition until we are the only ones standing. It’s a dog eat dog world, especially in the stock market. We can afford to be kind. If we are too nice they will come and bite you in the ass!

(Robert looks at everyone around the room in confusion. He looks back at Brian, his eyes are empty, almost as if he has no soul.)

Robert: Yes sir! Your numbers don’t lie.

Brian: Money makes the world go round.

(Ana walks into the office.)

Ana: Here are your reports Brian.

(Brian grunts to signal his appreciation.)

Ana: (Whispers) A thank you wouldn’t go a miss.

(She storms out of the room and slams the door. Everybody turns towards him, Brian remains unmoved.)

Brian: Get back to work!

(A few weeks later Robert walks into Brian’s office complaining that there is a lack of staff morale. The workers are not happy any more.)

Brian: Well you know what you can do.

Robert: We are all happy that we are hitting targets and generating money but it’s just that…

Brian: But what? Robert, you’re on the winning team. Everybody on Wall Street wants to be on this team. You should be lucky!

Robert: But I missed my daughter’s dance recital and my son’s first baseball game.

Brian: I don’t care!

Robert: I don’t mean to disrespect but...

Brian: It’s too late I already feel disrespected. I’ve turned you into a winner and you’re talking about dances and games. Life isn’t a game!

Robert: Look here Scarface! I’m happy you’ve brought me in this but to hell with this! I quit!

Brian: Good, I only want winners on my team. Leave your stuff over there and hand me your swipe card.

(Robert storms out of the room muttering profanities under his breath. As he storms out Ana enters the room.)

Ana: Brian.

Brian: You got a complaint?

Ana: No I have a request.

Brian: What? I need you on board Ana. I can’t afford any slip ups.

Ana: Well it’s a thing, I need some time off, I have an…

Brian: Women trouble eh? At least it only happens once a month.

Ana: No! Its not that!

Brian: Just email it to me I’m busy right now.

Scene 5

(A few weeks later Ana enters Brian’s office at 12pm.)

Brian: Can I help you?

Ana: I came to say I’m going.

Brian: Going where?

Ana: My appointment. I sent you the email.

Brian: What email?

Ana: I sent it to you two weeks ago, I requested time off.

Brian: Did I confirm it?

Ana: No but…

Brian: Go back to your desk.

Ana: I sent you the doctor’s note.

Brian: I didn’t see it, go back to your desk.

(Ana stares in shock and slowly walks out of the office. She stares into Brian’s eyes, she cannot believe he was doing this. For the first time in weeks she could see the dark circles under Brian’s eyes. Though his face remained expressionless she could sense a black cloud over him. She sits at her desk and pulls out her phone. She reads a text from Susan and replies.)

Ana: Thanks for your support but I can’t come today my boss won’t let me come.

(Susan replies instantly.)

Susasn: What? I’m going to come and whoop his ass. Your appointment is important Ana! Just walk out he can’t fire you!

Ana: I feel ok big Sis! Don’t worry, I will re-schedule. Love you xxx

(A few weeks later Brian is eating his lunch alone in his office. For the past few months he had started to isolate himself from his team. Even though he had become accustomed to the sneers and foul looks from his team he felt a sense of tranquillity being alone in his office. As he was about to bite into his sandwich Jane bursts into his office. Anguish etched all over her face. Brian was fuming.)

Brian: What the hell!

Jane: Sir! It’s Ana! She was, I don’t know how to explain it but we were just..

Brian: Slow down!

Jane: She passed out at her desk!

Brian: What!?

(Panic took over Brian! His stomach dropped immediately! He began sweating profusely. He leapt from him desk and ran across the building. He burst into her office but she wasn’t there. He ran down the stairs and saw her being carried into the ambulance. Tears began to stream from his eyes.)

Brian: Ana!

Paramedics: Calm down. She should be alright. Who are you?

Brian: I’m her boyfriend.

(Jane looked at Brian in shock.)

Brian: I mean her boss.

Paramedics: Were you aware of her medical history.

Brian: No! Will she be ok? Can I come to the hospital? Please!

Paramedics: She needs some space. We’re going to run some tests hopefully she should stabilize.

(Brian sprints wildly to his car and speeds to the hospital. He parks on a double yellow line but he doesn’t care. His immediate concern is Ana. A sickening sense of regret swept over him. All of the horrible things he had done and said to her. They all run through his head in a loop. More tears crept down his face. He reached the reception.)

Brian: I’m looking for Ana Richards

Receptionist: She is on 22 west wing, she just came in, apparently they managed to stabilize her in the ambulance.

(Brian could not listen to anything else she had to say, he hurried down the corridor and burst into the room. He saw her laying there half-awake with tubes up her arm. He was relieved that she was alive and stable. Susan stood over her stroking her hair.)

Susan: And who the hell are you? Another doctor?

Brian: No I’m Brian.

Susan: You’re Brian?

Brian: Yes, Is she ok?

Susan: Wait a minute…

(Susan walks up to Brian and slaps him across his face. He shuffles backwards, his eyes wide open. She slaps him again.)

Susan: Get out you son of a…

Brian: What?

Susan: If you don’t walk out of here right now then it will be a coroner taking your stupid ass out! 

Get out before I…

(She advances to slap him again but she’s distracted by Ana’s movement.)

Ana: (Croaks) Susan please. It’s ok.

Susan: No its not! This dude didn’t let you have your appointment. I told you it was important.

Ana: Relax I’m ok.

Brian: Ana!

Susan: Shut up!

Ana: Susan let me speak to him alone please. Give us two minutes.

Susan: No way!

Ana: Please.

(Susan shuffles towards the door. Brian cowers as she passes.)

Ana: You let a woman beat your ass Mr. Mayor.

Brian: I’m not no mayor, I’m certainly not a man.

(Brian lowers his head in disappointment.)

Ana: Your not my boyfriend as well.

Brian: What?

Ana: Quit fooling I know you told the paramedic you were my boyfriend. You’re crazy. Haha

Brian: I can explain. Basically I thought that…

Ana: It’s ok Brian.

Brian: I’m sorry Ana.

Ana: It’s not your fault.

Brian: It is, it is! Everything is my fault, I’ve been a complete fool, and I’ve treated everybody like crap! Even you!

Ana: We all make mistakes Brian.

(Brian strolls over to the window and stares outside.)

Brian: I know we do. But I’ve punished you for the mistakes of others. You don’t deserve that. You shouldn’t have been held accountable for the wrong doings of others. People have hurt me, several times. Today I almost lost you. I’ve let that bitterness poison me. It crushed me. I was blinded by hatred and bitterness. I’m sorry I hope you can forgive me one day. I know you must hate me, everybody else does.

Ana: I’ve never hated you, in fact I love you, I always have and I always will.

Brian: How? How can you love me?

Ana: I’ve been holding off coming to the hospital for a while. I have diabetes they say it’s not as serious as they suspected but I should have got checked out a while ago. But I was scared. You see Brian people make mistakes and sometimes you have to go through things to realise how things play out. Life isn’t straight forward as the numbers you obsess over. It’s not always the same pattern.

(Tears fall from Brian’s face.)

Brian: I wish it didn’t take this to happen before I realised how precious you are to me. I love you.

Ana. I will pay for your treatment! I will cover everything!

Ana: If you talk about money one more time I will call my sister to give you another beat down! I don’t want your money I just want you.

(He walks to her hospital bed and kisses her softly on the lips. Susan walks into the room.)

Susan: Don’t you want to get beat down again boy? You can’t just kiss and make up.

Ana: We can, and we have.

Susan: You’re lucky my crazy sister loves you so much otherwise you would have needed a hospital bed too!

Scene 6

(The year is 1987…)

Brian: This wedding I can’t believe I’m here.

Nick: You’re here buddy boy! It’s real and it’s happening. So you better suck it up brother.

Brian: There she is just look at her! Who does she think she is?

Nick: I know she is a stunner! You did well!

Brian: I know she looks like an angel. She is my angel, inside and out.

(Ana walks over to Brian in her white wedding gown. She seems to glide across the floor effortlessly. The guests gasp in admiration of her grace. The limo toots the horn.)

Nick: Get out of here you crazy kids in love!

Guests: Goodbye!

Brian: Are you ready baby?

Ana: Ready as I’ll ever be!

Brian: Driver! We have a flight to catch! We’re off to Hawaii for our honey moon baby!

End Scene

"Angel Faces: Part 2"

“Angel Faces: Part Two”

Scene 1

(The year was 1983. The gym was packed and noisy. The grunts and groans of people lifting weights echoed across the gym. Sweat and water dripped off the steel structures. Men took off their tops to reveal their solid physique, even more so as women entered the gym. It was almost like watching peacocks exhibit their glory to potential suitors. The receptionist giggled as one of the body builders whispered in her ear. He flexed his large arms and tensed his abs. Brian was focused on the treadmill. He increased the level after each minute making the run more intense. He was determined to beat his personal best, which he was on course to do. The music pumping through his headphones seemed to spur him on. Public Enemy’s ‘Bring the noise’ seemed to give him the push that he needed. He looked at the time left, he counted down from ten backwards to zero. He pushed the stop button. He fist pumped when he realised he hit his target. He skipped off the treadmill and sat on a bench at the side. He removed his headphones to watch the television screen in the gym. Reagan gave another public address to America.)

Reagan: The leading scientists have told us that marijuana, grass, pot whatever you want to call it is probably the most dangerous drug in the United States and we haven’t begun to find the ill effects of it.

Nick: Can you believe this guy? He’s so pressed about pot but what about him sending US forces to Lebanon. This asshole is killing more people than weed ever could. But what can I say? Politics was never for me. Haha.

Brian: Stick to body building haha! Stick to what you know that’s my advice.

(Nick slaps Brian on the back and laughs heartily.)

Nick: What’s your plans today? Your living the life now, your killing the stock market and climbing the property ladder. Life is sweet, and you got your sweet lover Tracy waiting for you at home.

Brian: Yeah life is ok I guess.

Nick: (Sings) Love is in the airrrrr!

Brian: Haha! We will catch up soon Nick. I’ll see you next time.

(Brian pushes through the revolving doors. He couldn't help but notice the lady at the desk staring at his arms as he walked past. He caught eye contact with her and blushed bright red. He walked briskly to his chevy parked outside. Two young boys ran up towards him.)

Billy: Hey Mr!

Brian: Hey Billy! You kids stay out of trouble right?

Chuck: Wow! That car looks like the Bat mobile!

Billy: He’s going back to his huge mansion like Batman. My dad says you should be the Mayor!

Brian: Far from! I’m rushing home now you kids run along.

(Brian hopped in his car and started the engine. Before he drove off he checked his phone and saw two missed calls from Tracy. He called her.)

Tracy: Let me guess you were at that gym again?

Brian: It’s good for stress.

Tracy: Stress? What is stressing you Mr?

Brian: Just some lady called Tracy. She gives me a headache daily.

Tracy: Cheeky!

Brian: I’m coming home now, I’ll be there shortly.

(He hung up the phone and sped off.)

Scene 2

(Brian typed in the code at the front. He heard a click as the password was accepted. The gates swung open and he entered the mansion. The cool summer breeze swept through his hair. He admired the bright stars dotted across the sky. He swung a bunch of red roses as he walked up to the front door. He entered and Tracy rushed from the sofa to embrace him. He smiled at the bunch of flowers and kissed him.)

Brian: You missed me huh?

Tracy: Just a little. I ordered some Chinese for you. It’s sitting on the table.

Brian: (Laughs) I don’t think I would recommend Chinese food after a gym session.

Tracy: You go to gym too much anyway.

Brian: How has your day been?

Tracy: It’s been great. Went to work came home and chilled

Brian: I was thinking, I’ve got a much more prominent position, maybe I can pull some strings and you can get a higher position? If we put our heads together we can get that house on the hill you’ve always dreamed of.

Tracy: I’m happy where I am now. Derrick treats my quite well over there, the money is ok, I’m not in a rush to move anywhere.

Brian: Ok it’s just food for thought.

(Tracy raises her head and smiles as she watches Brian eat the Chinese.)

Tracy: Mr healthy is enjoying.

Brian: You’re an enemy of progress. How you do feel today? You throw up again today?

Tracy: No I’m fine that was just some badly cooked steak. I’m fine now.

(Brian pressed the answer machine button.)

Derrick: Hey Tracey I was wondering if you have checked out the graphs and done the test yet? We need to know the results urgently. Please contact me or Sue when you get this.

Brian: Derrick is taking that role seriously huh? Why couldn’t he just email you? That’s how it is I guess when you get that role you have to take it with both hands.

Tracy: I know it’s my fault, I went home sick yesterday so I didn’t get the chance to check the mail and he will take the slack. I’ll sort that out tomorrow.

(She walks over to Brian and kisses him on the cheek and walks up to bed. Brian empties out the food into the bin and takes out the garbage. He quickly showers and hops into bed, he falls asleep instantly. A hummer passes the road blazing loud music and Brian wakes up instantly. He looks over and smiles as Tracy is fast asleep. He slides out of the bed and heads to the toilet. He looks into the mirror and lets out a yawn. He looks over at the trash and mutters as he notices how full the trash can is.)

Brian: My goodness this is filled with crap.

(He turns to use the toilet. He washes his hands and reaches over to dry his hands with the towel. He notices an unfamiliar packaging at the edge of the bin. He squints his eyes and takes a closer look. He takes out a packet which reads ‘home pregnancy test kit’. His throat starts to dry up immediately, his stomach drops and he begins to panic. He rummages through the rubbish and reaches at the bottom and pulls out the small tube. There were three green dots. Brian froze. He swung the door open and switched on the lights.)

Tracy: Brian I’m trying to sleep hunny. What you looking for?

Brian: You evil piece of...

Tracy: Huh.

Brian: You bitch! Get out of my house!

(Brian throws the test at her. He picks up the trash can with the rubbish and launches it at her.)

Tracy: Wait Brian I can explain!

Brian: What is there to explain? We have been together two years and we haven’t slept together. You insisted on staying celibate and this is the thanks I get!? Derrick? Derrick!

Tracy: It’s not what it looks like!

(Brian picked up her suitcase of clothes and threw it down the stairs. He rummaged through his wardrobe and began launching all her possessions down the stairs.)

Brian: I’m going to count to ten and when I get to zero I want you out of my house.

Tracy: But Brian!

Brian: No! I trusted you! You’re just like the rest of them! I thought you were different, but you’re just the same.

End Scene

Scene 3

Nick: 140 kg? Are you sure you don’t need help.

Brian: Nick please don’t ask me questions I just want to lift.

Nick: Bad day at the office huh?

Brian: Grrr! One, grrr, two, three…three..woah!

Nick: Woah!!! Brian your going to get injured brother!

Brian: You know what I’m out of here.

Nick: Brian!

(Brian storms out and hops into his car. His phone rings.)

Brian: I swear to God if this is Tracy one more time I‘m going to get a restraining order.

(His mother’s number flashed on his phone.)

Brian: Hi mom!

Jenifer: Brian it’s your Dad’s 50^th this week-end! I know you pull the strings over there you can come over and at least show your face.

(It had been a while since Brian had seen his parents. It could lift his spirits, his parents did not know how serious he had been with Tracy so he knew they wouldn’t ask many questions about her.)

Brian: Yes no problem I’ll fly out tomorrow

End Scene

Scene 4

Guests: (Sings) Happy Birthday dear Kevin, happy birthday to youuuuu!

(Everybody whistles and claps. Brian embraces both of his parents. He had not been this happy since him and Tracy ended. He was around family and laughter. He felt as though a great weight had been lifted off his shoulders. Though he had climbed great steps in his career he still felt the pressure to deliver for the company and his own business. But today he did not have a care in the world.)

Jennifer: Lovely to see you Brian. I wish you could come up more.

Brian: I will definitely make more effort in the future. It’s just that it gets so busy.

Jennifer: I know I know. This is what we wanted for you.

(She smiles. Brian felt warmth and joy spread through every nerve in his body. He felt safe and appreciated. The door bell rang.)

Kevin: More guests? I feel like a celebrity!

Jennifer: I’ll answer the door birthday boy.

(She walked over to the door and pulled it open.)

Jennifer: Helen! You came! How nice to see you!

(Brian’s stomach immediately dropped. He stood frozen as Helen glided effortlessly through the room. He was livid. She walked in like she owned the place. She was too familiar, too comfortable in her surroundings. Memories and emotions started to flood back. A few years ago this was the woman that he loved, he adored everything about her, he was going to make a lifetime commitment to her but she left him.)

Jennifer: Brian! It’s rude to stare.

Helen: Hi.

(Brian nodded his head. He walked over to the table and poured himself a glass of wine.)

Jennifer: Brian I thought you weren’t drinking tonight?

Brian: One glass won’t hurt anyone.

(People started to filter out of the house and say their good byes. The house was eventually empty just leaving Helen, Brian and his parents.)

Helen: I guess I’ll have to leave now.

Jennifer: Don’t be silly we still have plenty of food and drink.

(Helen looks toward Brian who has his back facing her. He was now on his third glass of wine.)

Helen: Umm, I’ll call a cab.

Jennifer: (Whispers) Ok have it your way, but your always welcome here. I know you and Brian have had your small problems but look at me and Kevin still going strong. Life has a funny way of turning around completely.

(She winks at Helen.)

Jennifer: Goodnight Brian, I and your father are off to bed.

(Kevin and Jennifer head upstairs and close their door behind them.)

Helen: How’s it going Brian? Heard your Mr Big shot in New York

Brian: I’m doing ok. You have a cab number?

Helen: Isn’t that your Bentley parked outside?

(Brian looked at her with a straight face.)

Brian: It’s my Dad’s I bought it for him last year. Let me me find you a cab number.

(He fumbled around looking for his phone, he scrolled through his phone for a local cab number. Helen walked towards him and stood in his face.)

Helen: Brian we need to talk.

Brian: There’s nothing to talk about. I found a cab number.

(Helen licked her lips and stared in his eyes. The eyes she had grown to love were now empty and cold but she knew she could penetrate the barrier.)

Helen: Listen to what I have to say and I’ll leave.

Brian: You have one minute.

Helen: I can’t go back into the past and change things but I am sorry. I know I hurt you badly, I can’t change that, but at least we can be civil or at least try to.

Brian: Why did you come here? Did you know I would come here? Is this some sort of sick joke?

Helen: Honestly? Your mother invited me. We still talk even though we had our own problems, she treats me like I’m her own…

Brian: Daughter? Haha

Helen: You could say that.

Brian: Unbelievable.

(Helen drew closer to him, took his hands and stared into his green eyes.)

Helen: Brian I know you still have a soft spot for me, you can try and hide it but we both know it’s still there. Maybe we could try and work on us again.

Brian: What happened to your giant of a boyfriend?

Helen: Huh?

Brian: You think I don’t know. You were with him at the airport.

Helen: That was my business partner.

Brian: Sounds like pleasure to me.

Helen: Look the whole point of this is to leave things in the past and move forward. You know what? Talk is cheap I’ll prove it to you tomorrow. Your mother said your around for another week in I’ll come and pick you up.

(Brian thought about the offer but he was unsure. She had left him to rot in New York. He had managed to pick himself up, rise out through the weeds and dirt but he had his concerns.)

Brian: Hmm.

Helen: What have you got to lose?

Brian: I almost lost everything because of you.

Helen: Brian! This is as hard for me as it is for you.

Brian: Hmm. Ok. One dinner and that’s it.

Helen: Deal.                                                                                      

End Scene.

Scene 5

(Over the next few months Helen and Brian had rekindled their flame. He was always tied up with work but Helen always flew in to see him and spend time with him. She paid for most of her expenses herself. This impressed Brian and she appeared more financially secure and independent. Even more focused than Tracy. He had quickly forgotten her wrong doings. Brian held her hand and stared at the bright lights beneath them.)

Brian: That big building is me and the other building is you. Both standing strong, we can be shaken but never broken.

Helen: You’re so sweet. I know we have had our problems but sometimes you have to go through these things to learn.

(Brian kisses her softly on the lips.)

Brian: I love you Helen.

(Helen turns away from him and smiles. A large aircraft flew above them as they lay on the dry grass. New York was busy as usual. Young couples walked through the park whilst teenagers crept out in the open space to play baseball. Brian admired his surroundings, he was overwhelmed by the peace he felt in his heart.)

Brian: Well! Would you look at that!

Helen: What?

Brian: That billboard over there. There is a production of Julius Caesar coming to the theatre.

Helen: I had no idea you were into classical theatre.

Brian: We should go and watch it!

Helen: That would be the 100^th re make. Spare me, we all know how that story ends. Haha. Let’s go,

Brian: Yes Maam. Your still dropping me home?

(Helen spins around and smiles at him.)

Helen: You trust my driving skills?

Brian: Just about.

(Helen takes Brian to the car and hops in. She speeds through the city.)

Brian: Easy Tiger I might throw up!

Helen: Stop being a baby, I'm only driving like this because you have your business meeting tomorrow.

Brian: I intend to make it to that meeting alive.

(They arrive at Brian’s apartment, it stood tall. He owned it but rented it out to businessmen who travelled to New York. He rarely stayed there but it was convenient as he often held meetings not too far from there. Helen’s phone vibrates.)

Brian: Your phone is ringing.

(Brian yawns.)

Helen: Go in and sleep Mr Mayor.

(She kisses his cheek.)

Brian: Goodnight.

(Brian walks into his apartment and heads straight to the toilet. He yawns and stretches as he looks into the mirror. An eerie sense of anxiety creeps over him. He mulls over his doubts and confusion. He questions why Helen didn’t answer her phone? Why didn’t she just answer it? Has she got something to hide? He brushes these thoughts off and heads to the kitchen. He looks outside the window and notices Helen is still in the drive way. He rubs his eyes and notices she is on the phone. An immediate sense of suspicion takes over him. She puts her phone down and peels off into the night. Brian dashes to the table and grabs his car keys. He jumps into the front seat and turns on the ignition. Dolly Parton’s ‘Here you come again’ blared from the speakers. Brian carefully drove at a safe distance so Helen could not see him. Her car twisted and curved through the city. He noticed she went through a few red lights. Heavy rain is beating down on the streets of New York, the rain rattled off his windows.)

Brian: Where the hell is she going? She lives on the other side of town.

(Brian slows down as Helen slows down. Her car parks up outside a driveway. He steps out and makes a call. A tall bearded man comes out of the house. She runs towards him and embraces him passionately. The unnamed man holds her face and stares into his eyes. Brian stares at the sight, every particle of his body contaminated with rage. He sits watching in the driver’s seat. They are having an animated conversation. The heavy rain does not ruin the flow of their conversation. Brian slowly opens the car door and walks towards Helen’s car.)

Brian: Helen!? What the hell is this?

Helen: Brian! What the hell are you doing here! You freak! Did you follow me?

Brian: Turns out my suspicions were right! I knew something was up when you didn’t answer your phone!

Helen: I’m sorry Marcus.

Brian: Your saying sorry to this guy?

Marcus: Hey man! Get off my property!

Brian: Listen! You son of a…

Marcus: Hey little man. Don’t raise your voice at me. I’m going to call the police.

Helen: Brian just go! Please!

Brian: I thought you changed? I thought we could have gone somewhere. How could I have been so stupid?

Helen: Brian!

Marcus: Dude, your not welcome here.

(Thunder rumbles and the rain beats even harder. All three of them are drenched from the rain. Brian looks helplessly as Marcus holds onto Helen. They both walk into the house. Brian walks backwards towards his car and weeps. He sinks on his knees, tears continue to stream from his eyes. He notices a brick on the floor. He picks it up and hurls it at Helen’s car window. The alarm sounds, he quickly jumps into his car and peels off.)

End Scene.                                                                             

Scene 6

(A year later, Brian was sat at his table surrounded by businessmen and investors. The room was quiet and the tone was solemn. There was no banter or jokes, everything was strictly business. Charts. Numbers and graphs could be seen on the projector.)

Brian: That will be all gentleman, we are making baby steps but it can’t be rushed. As long as we continue carefully we will reach our goals. You can all go.

(Everyone stood up and nodded their heads in acknowledgement. Chairs scraped the floor and rustles of paper could be heard. They all slowly left the room. Over the past year Brian had gained superior success in the stock market and set up various businesses. Since his break up from Helen he felt that focusing his attentions on making profit and expanding his business was the best way to forget her. He still deeply loved her but was no longer tempted to contact her.)

Ana: Mr Grant I was wondering if I could have a second?

Brian: Sure

Ana: I wanted to discuss some of these balance sheets with you.

Brian: Your mentor should be helping you with this, I’m happy to help but maybe another time would be better.

Ana: Perhaps I could send you an email?

Brian: That would be better. You’re an intern correct? Be sure to chase up your mentor as well or change them if need be.

(She smiles at him and turns at walks off. Her ginger hair bouncing as she walked down the corridor. Brian’s face remains stern. The day was busy and the offices were packed. People were talking loudly over others in the office. Each person trying to broker deals. Brian walked through the offices talking to his employees, advising them and in some cases shouting at them. The time was 4.45pm. He usually stayed until 7pm but he was extremely worn out from the long week. He walked back into his office and to his shock he saw Ana the intern sitting in his computer chair.)

Ana: Hi.

Brian: What the hell?

Ana: Oh, I sent you my email but you didn’t get back to me.

(Brian stares angrily and opens his door and points to the offices.)

Brian: In case you haven’t noticed it’s very busy.

Ana: I realise that but even when their busy you could take time to help me.

Brian: You don’t get what you want by walking into people’s office and making demands.

Ana: Sometimes you need to be persistent to get what you want. I’m simply taking a leaf out of your book.

(She smiles.)

Brian: Look Ana.

Ana: Look it’s nearly time to go why we don’t discuss the balancing sheets over coffee. It will be completely professional. Deal?

Brian: Professional?

Ana: Yes, professional.

Brian: Deal.

(Later that evening Ana and Brian are seated in the corner of a local coffee shop. They had spreadsheets and balancing sheets in front of them. Brian spent a good hour lecturing. Ana quite enjoyed it, she too wanted to be successful but needed the guidance. She was also enjoying his company.)

Waiter: Excuse me Sir, would you and your girlfriend like another coffee.

(Ana giggled.)

Brian: What? She’s not my girlfriend

Waiter: Sorry I just assumed.

Brian: Assumed? Don’t assume. Never assume.

(The waiter walks off embarrassed.)

Ana: What was that about? You were quite quick to deny that.

Brian: But it’s true.

Ana: But still, you seemed insulted.

Brian: I thought we were talking about figures not relationship statuses.

Ana: Fine.

Brian: I think I’ve helped you enough today.

(Brian gets up and storms out the shop. He feels his phone vibrate as he walks up the street. He sees a message from Ana. “Thank you handsome, that was really helpful. I hope to repay your kindness one day. I’ll take you out sometimes when your free?”. Brian replied saying “Thanks, but no thanks”.)

End Scene

Scene 7

(The next few weeks were as busy as ever. Ana frequently tried to contact Brian by email or via text but Brian did not reply at all or took his time to reply. He used the busy schedule as an excuse. It was clear that Ana was interested in him but he was not interested in her. He refused to be involved with another woman. Though Ana was genuine and courteous and also very good looking he had no room in his heart for her. His heart was cold, he felt nothing.)

Jane: He is a rich and lonely guy.

Fran: Yeah! I haven’t seen him smile in over a year, he gets the job done but he is so depressing. His office feels like a morgue for goodness sake.

(Ana walks in.)

Jane: Totally, Brian Grant is depressing.

Ana: Maybe if you put your head down and focused on yourself you wouldn’t care about what he’s doing. If it wasn’t for him none of you would be in the position your! Am I right?

Jane: Another intern trying to climb the ladders of success! Don’t worry honey he doesn’t care about your pretty face, he doesn’t look at me or any of us.

Ana: I’m more than a pretty face! Mr Grant has helped me and all of you so it’s better to say something positive than negative.

(Ana turns to the door and notices Brian as he staring in disbelief.)

Jane: Sorry Mr. Grant.

(Jane shuffles and looks down on her feet.)

Ana: Sorry.

Brian: I heard raised voices from upstairs.

Ana: Sorry we will get back to work immediately.

(Brian sat back in his office and stared at his phone. He read through all the messages from Ana. He had declined at least ten dates from her. Giving her varying excuses. He had never seen anyone defend him as passionately as she had just done. He rocked back and forth on his chair in deep thought.)

Brian: (Mumbles.) What’s the worst that could happen?

 (He texts her asking to meet up at a local Italian restaurant, to which she responds with an instant ‘Yes’.)

Scene 8

(Four months later and Ana and Brian are dating. Brian was intrigued by Ana and her ambition, she didn’t seem intimidated by his wealth and success. She was driven herself. In some ways he felt she complimented him perfectly, their ambition and drive rubbed off on each other. However, he was still sceptical about her. He put minimal effort into spending time with her and communicating with her. He cared about her but he still had his doubts.)

Ana: That was nice!

Brian: I couldn’t eat another bite.

Waiter: I hope you enjoyed your meal.

Ana: No way Phil! Is that you? When did you start working here!

Phil: Ana!?

(Brian stared in bewilderment as she got up to hug the waiter.)

Phil: Hey

(He shook Brian’s hand.)

Ana: How long have you been working here?

Phil: I just moved out here from Michigan. I’m studying!

Ana: That’s great! I hope you’re working hard! No partying!

(Phil laughed and hugged her. He walked back to the kitchens. Ana noticed Brian on his phone, he was pretending to be texting.)

Ana: That was my friend from high school.

Brian: Friend yeah?

Ana: Umm yeah, I can have friends can’t I?

Brian: Hmm.

Ana: What does that mean?

Brian: Nothing

(Ana rolled her eyes.)

Brian: I’m going to the toilet I will be back in a second.

(Brian walked briskly to the toilets, once he finished he washed his hands and returned to the restaurant. He came out and could not see Ana. He looked around the room and couldn’t see her anywhere. He walked over to the bar and tipped the waiter. As he turned back he saw Ana hugging another gentleman. A short mixed race man, he looked to be in his early 20s. He wore a leather jacket and baggy jeans. He wore a jubilant expression on his face. A familiar feeling of rage and disgust crept into Brian as he stared at Ana talking to the stranger. He strode towards them. Ana turned and noticed Brian walking towards her. She pointed at him smiling.)

Ana: This is the man I’ve been telling you about! Brian this is Lucas.

Lucas: I’ve heard so much about you.

(Brian grunts in response. Ana frowns at his reaction.)

Ana: This is my half-brother Lucas.

Brian: Ok. Are you ready to go now? I have to be up early.

(Ana and Lucas look at each other in confusion.)

Ana: Umm I guess.

(A long moment of awkward silence.)

Lucas: I’ll be off sis! I have a date anyway. Nice to meet you sir.

(Brian leads Ana to the car and drives off. Ana is silent throughout the whole car journey. She is simmering with anger and embarrassment. Ten minutes later they reach his apartment. Brian parks up and they enter the apartment.)

Brian: You left your folder here, you can get it if you want.

(Ana nods her head. She heads to the table and takes her folder.

Brian: I would offer you a lift but it’s getting late. I’ll see you at work tomorrow.

Ana: What the hell is wrong with you?

Brian: Huh?

Ana: You know what I mean. You have a high IQ but you suck at looking after a woman.

Brian: What do you mean?

Ana: Look I’ve been good to you since I’ve met you but I get nothing but the cold shoulder. You’re a nice guy but maybe your not worth it. How can you embarrass me like that in front of my friend and my own brother!

Brian: I don’t know what your talking about.

Ana: Look Brian I want this to work but you have some serious issues.

Brian: I need to go to sleep its late.

Ana: It’s not always about you!

(Ana starts crying. Brian stares at her blankly. His eyes cold and his posture remains nonchalant.)

Ana: I’m going now!

Brian: Tommorrow I will…

Ana: No as in I’m going, I’m walking out, so what is it Brian? You going to let me walk?

End Scene.