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GOAL TO GO

Episode 3.28

Dog Days

by

David Polk

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2.RECAP

We Recap events from Previous Episodes, ending on Galekilling Harold with a poison injection.

TEASER

FADE IN:

INT. AUDITORIUM DAY

EIGHTY FOOTBALL PLAYERS in street clothes listen intentlyto head coach Billy Donahue at the front of the room.

BILLYWelcome back gentlemen. I hope you allhad a pleasant, relaxing summer and

that youve come back to Maitlandtotally committed to taking thisfootball program to the next level.

Billy paces slowly. His ASSISTANTS stand behind him.

BILLYA special thanks to you freshmen andtransfers whove decided to come to WaTech. Youve already impressed me withyour character and your courage...

GREG(sotto to Jet)

Here it comes.

BILLY...by committing to a program that tooka fifty-five to ten ass whipping onnational television last December.

Receivers Greg Ericsson and Jet Johnson, like others whoplayed in the disastrous Poinsettia Bowl, feel the sting of

the headmans words.

The door of the auditorium opens and a hot woman comes in,takes her place next to Billys assistants. This is DR.NATALIA ROCKOV (33).

The players attention immediately gravitates to Dr.Rockov. Her tight skirt, high heels and stylish, shortblonde hair give her the look of a sexy Russian villainess.

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3.BILLY

You may have heard that our teamphysician, Dr. Stan Fiorenza, retiredto Florida. No doubt due to the shameof how we ended the season. Now, sinceall of you seem so interested in her,Id like to introduce you to our newteam doctor, Dr. Natalia Rockov.

Dr. Rockov nods. Players gawk at her, look at each other...

JET(sotto to Greg)

Doctor Rocks off?

BILLYSince this years training camp will

be, well, lets just say, somewhat morerigorous, Ive asked Dr. Rockov toconduct pre-camp physicals...We want to

make sure youre all up to it.

OFF Dr. Rockovs alluring but chilling smile...

INT. MEDICAL EXAM ROOM DAY

SERIES OF SHOTS MEET DR. ROCKS OFF

Dr. Rockov pulls on a pair of LATEX EXAMINATION GLOVES andmeets the guys, who come to her one at a time in the buff;

iPhone Sitren is horrified when she squeezes LUBRICANT onan ANAL PROBE and motions for him to turn around;

Dr. Rockov tells a cocky Crash Davis to Turn and cough.She SQUEEZES and he wilts in more ways than one;

About to have blood drawn, Jet ogles her breasts; shesmiles wickedly and JABS him hard with the NEEDLE;

Achilles Addams eyes widen at the sight of Dr. Rockovsmiling at him, holding a HUGE LIFE SUCKING SYRINGE;

Eye-to-eye with Dallas Morales, she glances down and analmost imperceptible lustful grin crosses her lips...

SMASH CUT TO TITLES:

END TEASER

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5.INT. DUNCANS NURSERY DAWN

Gale looks down devotedly at Duncan, who is sleepingpeacefully in his crib. Shes so enthralled by her newson that she doesnt notice Billy come in. He standsclose, puts a hand on her shoulder, looks down at the baby.

BILLYHes a good-looking little devilalright.

She reaches into the crib, gently strokes Duncans cheek,runs a finger through his hair. Billy sees that she is

mesmerized, knows there is no point in hanging around.

INT. ACHILLES & PORTIAS APARTMENT DAWN

Portia steps out of the shower. Achilles comes out rightafter her. We stay with them through their routine ofgetting ready for the day dressing, grooming, etc.

ACHILLESIm telling you, baby, these first twodays have been brutal. Yesterday threeguys quit, just took off their pads andleft the field.

PORTIAThey were walk-ons, Lee. Scrubs.

ACHILLESMaybe. Point is, the coaches are being

merciless. Theyre straight up tryingto break guys.

PORTIADoesnt matter. Youre the leader ofthe team now, Lee. You have to staystrong. You cant show any signs of

weakness physically or mentally.

ACHILLES(somewhat annoyed)

I know that, Portia.

PORTIAYou should be voted team captain whencamp ends.

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6.ACHILLES

Ive told you before, thats notimportant to me, Portia.

PORTIA(insistent)

Its important Lee, whether itsimportant to you or not.

In the kitchen, she peels a banana, takes a bite and feedsthe rest to him. When hes done, she kisses him on thelips. On the way out of the apartment, she stuffs a LAPTOPCOMPUTER in a backpack and slings it on her shoulder.

EXT. STREET DAWN

Achilles and Portia zoom through Maitland on his Agusta.

EXT. MEMORIAL STADIUM (TRAINING CAMP) - DAY

The ASSISTANT COACHES are like overseers in a labor camp,shouting at and berating PLAYERS as they go through violenthitting, blocking and tackling drills. Achilles was right:this is sheer brutality. Billy walks from drill to drill,coolly evaluating the toughness of his team.

In the stands, a few FANS look on. On the sideline, SashaMendez, the new head of pubic relations, chats up the dozenor so REPORTERS covering camp. Shes got them under herspell, including egotistical announcer Sandy Sanderson.

SANDERSONI certainly hope you can open the linesof communication between me and CoachDonahue, Sasha. I dont know why, buthes always been defensive with me.

SASHA

Dont you worry, Sandy. Coach Donahuehas assured me that youre his numberone local media priority this season.

SANDERSON(surprised)

Really? He said that?

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7.SASHA

(lying)Would I lie? You can count on it,Sandy.

Sasha looks past Sandy, glances into the stands and spiesPortia, sexy-cool in Wayfarer sunglasses, cutoff shorts,

working intently on her laptop computer.

PORTIA

Over the course of the days practice she does a ton ofschoolwork ON THE COMPUTER writes a report, completes apresentation, crunches a boatload of complicated scientificand mathematical equations. Were reminded that she is,after all, a genius.

We also learn that she has secretly hacked into Achillespersonal online accounts. She reads his e-mail and fansite. She deletes most of the groupie messages includinga lewd NUDE PHOTO but leaves a few to avoid suspicion.She resets the accounts to unread to cover her tracks.

ON THE FIELD

Lineman Ronnie Taylor is injured in a blocking drill. Hehowls in pain. Dr. Rockov makes her way to him. The otherplayers cant help but ogle her in form-fitting slacksand a tank top as she works on their teammate. Shespeaks with a deep, sexy Russian accent.

DR. ROCKOV(re: Ronnies butt)

Its a strained glute. Not too bad,but days over for you, Taylor. Letshit the shower, big fellah.

Ronnie is helped up by TWO TRAINERS, limps slowly off thefield with Dr. Rockov, her hand on his large rump.

KWAME(checking out her ass)

Damn. Somebody please kick me in myass so I can get a shower with that.

MERCERIm more than happy to kick you in theass, Epstein! ...

Rugged, half-black, half-Jewish defensive tackle KWAMEEPSTEIN (19) is startled by defensive coach Joe Mercer.

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8.MERCER

Now stop standing around beating yourmeat and get back to work!

KWAMERight, Coach!

Later, as practice wraps up, Billy walks toward the tunnel.Sanderson approaches him.

SANDERSON(big smile)

Hi, Coach! Its gotta feel goodfinally getting back to the dog days ofsummer training camp, especially afterthe Poinsettia Bowl, right?

Billy just glares at him coldly, keeps walking. Sandersonstops, watches him walk away, befuddled. Then he turns tofind Sasha, sees her going up into the stands toward,

PORTIA

whos putting away her laptop. Sasha comes up the aisle.

SASHAPortia? Portia Robeson-Addams?

PORTIAIts Addams.

SASHAIm sorry. Portia Addams. Hi, ImSasha Mendez, deputy dean ofInformation and Community Affairs forthe university.

PORTIAYoure the head of public relations?

SASHA(smiles)

Thats right. Ive noticed you in thestands the last couple of days. So howdo you think Achilles and the team aredoing so far?

PORTIAIts still early. Theyre not readyfor Oklahoma yet, but they will be.

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9.SASHA

I hear you know a lot about football.That you help Achilles study theplaybook and can read defenses betterthan half the quarterbacks in the WAC.

PORTIA(innocent smile)

I think people exaggerate.

SASHAI think youre very modest, Portia.Very beautiful and very modest.

(then)I also think your husband is going tohave a great season.

PORTIAI certainly hope so.

SASHAOh, I think you can do more than hope.You can count on it.

PORTIAThanks for the vote of confidence.Well, Ive got to meet Achillesdownstairs. It was nice meeting you,Ms. Mendez.

SASHASame here, Portia. Hopefully well see

more of each other this season.

INT. PLAYERS LOUNGE DAY

A few players are gathered around Kwame, whos in front ofa LAPTOP COMPUTER. Without his helmet, hes got a huge70s-style Afro. Hes a big boy, but very handsome.

ON THE COMPUTER SCREEN: Google results for Dr. Rockov.

KWAMEBorn in Gdansk, graduated cum laudefrom the University of Moscow, whereshe also went to medical school,thoracic surgeon, came to the Statesfour years ago on a fellowship to the Uof W Medical Center

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10.JET

Who gives a shit? Shes Russian andshes a doctor. We know that. Is she

married?

GREGHow could her being married possibly

make a difference to you?

JETIm just asking if somebodys poppingthat on a regular basis.

RONNIEShe could be a lesbo.

BREW

Could be? Shit, Ive got twenty buckssays shes a permanent resident ofLezville. Hell, I bet shes the mayor.

NATE BREW BREWSTER is a tough-looking, tough-talkinglinebacker.

KWAMECmon, Brew, a honey that hot? I dontthink so.

RONNIEMan, you know those Russian chicks areinto some real freaky shit.

GREGOnly thing you know about Russia,Taylor, is that theyve got their ownsalad dressing.

KWAMEBullshit! Whens the last time you sawthat boy eat a salad?

RONNIELast weekend, Epstein. Right after Ibanged your Jewish momma.

KWAME(turns from computer)

My fathers Jewish, shit-for-brains.You already got your ass broke oncetoday, Taylor. Dont make me stick myfoot up there again.

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11.JET

Hey, shut up and keep scrolling! Ivegot to know if Dr. Rocks Off is hookingup with somebody.

Greg looks askance at him.

GREG Again. Why?!

JETI think I can tap that, man.

(off their reaction)I can! During that first physicalexam, she was feelin me up big time.

GREG

(busting up)PUH-LEEZ!

JETSeriously, man! She was!

BREW(laughing too)

Youre seriously smoking something.Rocks Off is a dyke.

KWAMEIf youre so sure, put up some real

money, not just twenty lousy bucks.

BREW(beat)

Okay. Seventy-five says the good doctoris getting more pussy than you are.

GREGShit, thats not saying much. Mygrandfathers getting more pussy than

Epstein and he died three years ago. Ahundred and you can count me in.

And its on.

INT. DR. RUBENSTEINS OFFICE SUNSET

Dr. Michelle Rubenstein is in a cozy wingback chair. Shesspeaking to Mathilda Mattie Weiss, who stands across theroom at the window, looking out.

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12.DR. RUBENSTEIN

And now that youve embraced yourfeelings for Darryl, what about Gale?

CLOSE ON Matties face as she considers

FLASHBACK INT. GALES OFFICE SUNSET (A MONTH EARLIER)

Mattie and Gale speak in tense, hushed tones.

MATTIEMy God, Gale! Do you realize whatyoure saying?!

GALEIts the only way to save Duncan,Mattie. And I cant do it alone.

MATTIE(more hushed, more tense)

But its murder!

Gale hardens with self-righteousness.

GALEHe deserves to die, after what he didto Maria. He lied about giving hercustody and then tried to leave thecountry with him. If we werentrushing to stop him, we would neverhave been on that bridge. Maria wouldnever have drowned.

MATTIE(deeply torn)

Gale...the police will immediatelysuspect you.

GALENot if it appears he had another heart

attack. There are poisons untraceable poisons that can imitatea heart attack and that kill in a

matter of minutes.

Mattie gazes at her in astonishment.

MATTIEYouve thought this through.

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13.GALE

(beat)Every detail. But I cant do it alone,Mattie. I cant do it alone.

RETURN TO PRESENT INT. DR. RUBENSTEINS OFFICE - SUNSET

Mattie turns from the window to face Dr. Rubenstein.

MATTIEI still love her.

DR. RUBENSTEINAnd Darryl? Does he know how you feel?

Mattie sits on the sofa across from her.

MATTIENo.

DR. RUBENSTEINKeeping your feelings for Gale hiddenall these years is bad enough. Cantyou see that keeping a secret like thisfrom Darryl could have disastrousconsequences for your relationship?

MATTIEYes, Michelle, I know. I know. Itsjust that right now theres a moreimmediate problem in my relationship

with Darryl.

Michelle eyes her with professional curiosity.

DR. RUBENSTEINWell?

MATTIE(beat)

Ive slept with Lilly again.

INT. SUSSMAN HOME NIGHT

Champ and his cute wife KENDRA (35) host a dinner party forBillys coaching staff and their spouses. Charlotte and herhusband Ronald are also there. Years on the academic fasttrack have made the Sussmans delightful hosts.

Mimi and Kendra, kindred spirits, hit it off.

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14.KENDRA

I know exactly what you mean, Mimi.Sometimes I feel like theyre plottingagainst me, three little demons!

MIMIExactly! When its three against oneits so easy to feel overwhelmed.

KENDRAI probably shouldnt admit this, but

when Kylie, our youngest, was a baby,Id dip the nipple of her bottle inHennessey to get her to sleep faster.

Good-natured reaction around the table.

CHAMPKendra, sweetie, youll give everybodythe wrong impression.

KENDRA(playfully)

Oh relax, Champ. Every mothers got abit of Mommy Dearest in her, am Iright, ladies?

The women all agree. Kendra looks directly at Champ with anaffectionate, accusing smile.

KENDRAAnd motherhood isnt any easier whenyoure married to a workaholic like allof us are, right ladies?

Again the coaches wives are in agreement, none more sothan Mimi, who cuts Bob a look that says, But thats noexcuse, buddy.

Ronald clears his throat pleasantly, speaks evenly, trying

to play it straight.

RONALDAs the husband of a workaholic, Idjust like to point out that we fathersare equally up to the task ofperforming our Mommy Dearest Duties. Itoo, on occasion, spiked Jocelyns andBethanys afternoon bottle with a spotof brandy.

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15.BILLY

Thanks, Ronald. Way to step up andtake one for the team, buddy.

All around the table laugh. When they die down

KENDRABilly, how are Gale and Duncan bonding?It must be so very difficult for her,given all thats happened.

BILLY(beat)

Gale and Maria were best friends, soits been rough. But shes crazy aboutDuncan. Being there for him is helpingher to heal.

INT. DONAHUE GREAT ROOM NIGHT

Gale is on the floor with Duncan, playing peek-a-boo withthe cooing toddler. She is totally into him. Gales

mother, Rose Ryan, who has Alzheimers, smiles lovingly atthem from her chair as she crochets.

ROSEYou spoil him, Gale.

GALE(baby talk, to Duncan)

Yes, Mommy Gale spoils you, doesntshe, Duncan? Yes she does.

ROSEIts so nice having a baby in thehouse. But, Gale honey, you shouldkeep J.R. out of the sun. Ive noticedhes gotten very brown.

GRACIEHere you go, Mrs. Donahue.

Gracie Wellington has come in with a BOTTLE and a DIAPERBAG, hands the bag to Gale.

GALEThank you, Gracie, Sweetheart.

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16.Gracie sits cross-legged next to them. Gale lay Duncan onhis back and begins changing his diaper while Gracieoccupies him with more baby talk and gentle caresses.

GRACIE(re: diaper change)

Youre good at this, Mrs. Donahue.

GALEBeing a mother is like learning to ridea bike, Gracie. Once you get it,youve got it.

We hear a commotion O.S. J.R. comes in, distressed.

J.R.Mom! Mom!

Gracie looks up at J.R., concerned. Gale doesnt; she onlyhas eyes for Duncan, who has suddenly become irritable.

GALEYes, J.R.

J.R.Mom, where are the bandages?!

He holds out his arm, which is scraped badly. Duncanbegins to cry. Gale picks him up, gives him the bottle.

GALETry the cabinet in the laundry room,the one above the dryer.

J.R.But, Mom, Im cut! Im bleeding!

At this, Duncan rejects the bottle and goes into a fit.

GALE

J.R., please! Cant you see Im tryingto feed the baby?

OFF J.R. feeling utterly rejected...

FADE OUT.

END OF ACT ONE

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17.ACT TWO

FADE IN:

EXT. MEMORIAL STADIUM (TRAINING CAMP) DAY

Its another brutal day in camp. The intense heat and thecoaches relentlessness are taking their toll.

QUICK CUTS TO players COLLAPSING from exhaustion, VOMITING,lashing out at each other in frustration, etc.

During a seven-on-seven scrimmage, Ronnie and Kwame getinto a slugging match. After coaches and teammates breakthem apart, Billy puts a BULLHORN to his mouth:

BILLY

Fifty-five to ten! Where was all thatfight in San Diego last December?

As if on cue, an AIRHORN SOUNDS, signaling the end of thefirst half of practice. Players drag their tired, wearyasses to the locker room. Sasha intercepts Billy, falls instep with him as they cross the field.

SASHAYoure doing a live remote for ESPNU.Beano Cooks doing the interview.Well be on at the top of the hour, aprime timeslot for their collegefootball coverage. You ready, Coach?

BILLYWould it matter if I werent?

SASHA(smiles)

No.

INT. WA TECH STUDIO DAY

Billy sits on a stool, earplug in his ear, looking into acamera. Calm and composed, hes an old pro at the liveremote interview. Sasha stands behind the camera and theCAMERAMAN. Shes in her element.

BILLYBeano, we feel fortunate to go into theseason ranked in the top twenty five,

(MORE)

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18.BILLY (CONTD.)

but as you know, its not where youstart but where you finish that counts.

INT. ESPN STUDIO DAY

BEANO COOK is behind the familiar broadcast desk.

BEANOCoach, after two straight bowlappearances, expectations for the SeaDevils are pretty high this season.But youve lost a few key players tograduation. In particular, the defenseis inexperienced. How do you rate youryour chances going up against offensive

powerhouses Oklahoma, UCLA and OhioState?

INTERCUT BILLY/BEANO

BILLYNo doubt, Beano, were going to haveour hands full against Oklahoma, UCLAand the Buckeyes. We also face sometough offenses in the WAC BoiseState, Fresno State and Hawaii to namea few. But I rate our chances as good.Weve got six starters returning ondefense and three of them are seniors,so theres a solid core there.

BEANOCoach, Achilles Addams comes into hisjunior year poised to break everyWashington Tech record for aquarterback. And hes being talkedabout as a Heisman hopeful. What doeshe mean to your program, and have you

given any thought to what it would meanif he opted to go into the NFL draftafter his junior year?

BILLYAchilles is the straw that stirs ourdrink, certainly on the offensive sideof the ball. This is a big year forhim. He knows that, we all know that.

(MORE)

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19.BILLY (CONTD.)

But I think hes learned to take oneweek at a time. Hes not going to getahead of things and neither are we.

Beano smiles the smile of someone who has big news.

BEANOCoach, another player whos generatingsome buzz among NFL scouts is your son,safety Dallas Morales...

Billys caught off guard. His cool veneer cracks. Sashasees this and is instantly uptight.

BEANOI know Dallas just came into your life

a couple of years ago, but having had asuccessful NFL career yourself, howcool would it be to see your eldest sondrafted into the pros?

BILLYUm, well, Dallas is a hell of afootball player, so Im not surprisedhes caught the eye of pro scouts. Butright now, uh, were just focusing ontraining camp and gearing up for thestart of the season.

BEANOThanks a lot, Coach Donahue. Good tosee you again. Good luck this season.

BILLYThanks, Beano. Great to see you too.

CAMERAMANWere clear.

Billy unclips the microphone from his shirt. Sashaapproaches him right away.

SASHA(fretful)

Coach, Im soooo sorry. I had no ideaBeano was going to ask about yourrelationship with Dallas.

BILLYForget about it, Sasha.

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20.SASHA

No, you were surprised by the line ofquestions. Its my job to make surethat never happens in an interview.

Billy heads out of the studio with Sasha in tow.

BILLYIts no big deal, Sasha. I guess Ivebeen so caught up in preparing forcamp, I just never thought aboutDallas pro prospects.

INT. BILLYS OFFICE LATER

Billy comes in. His secretary Donna Dixon is right behind

him with his messages.

DONNAYou and Dr. Webb meet with ChancellorSussman and Ms. Mendez tomorrow betweentwo-a-days to go over the media plan.Theres a read-ahead package rightthere on your desk...

Billy sits at his desk, sees the bound report, ignores it.

DONNA...and Mrs. Donahue says itsimperative that you make it home fordinner tonight.

(off his look)Imperative, Coach.

BILLYI guess that means Id better be there.

DONNAThats what it means. Oh, and this

came by courier this morning.

She produces a small PACKAGE. To be opened by addresseeonly is stamped in big red letters on the label. He takesit, examines it curiously.

As Donna heads for the door

BILLYDonna, would you get Jerry McGuire onthe phone?

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21.DONNA

Your agent?

BILLYYes. Please.

(off her look)Dont worry, Donna. Im not lookingfor a job.

She smiles, relieved, and exits.

Billy opens the package she gave him, pulls out a CANDY BARand a handwritten NOTE. We read in Billys expression thathe recognizes the handwriting.

INSERT NOTE

A small reminder of how much you love dark chocolate.

RETURN TO SCENE

OFF Billy...

EXT. MEMORIAL STADIUM (TRAINING CAMP) DAY

The second half of the two-a-day practice is a full-contactscrimmage. Achilles is sheer perfection, reading defenseslike a coach and hitting pass after pass even in thetightest of coverage. POV from TELEVISION CAMERAS as theycapture Achilles every move on the field.

Billy watches the action from the sideline. But heschecking out Dallas not as a head coach, but as a father.

OFF Billy admiring his son...

INT. LOCKER ROOM DAY

Guys in various stages of dress mill about after practice.

JETHer condos on Aberdeen Avenue.

KWAMESo what are you saying, we just go overthere and spy on her?

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22.JET

How else we going to find out whethershes getting laid?

BREWOr licked.

KWAMEGuys muff dive too, moron.

RONNIEGay guys.

JETI go down on chicks and I aint gay.

BREW

Thats not what it said on that webpage you and Ericsson were on.

KWAME(to Ronnie)

Wait a minute, shit for brains. If aguy is gay, what the hell would he bedoing licking a chick anyway?

MERCERMorales!

Dallas is at his locker in jeans, rolling on deodorant.

DALLASYeah, Coach?

MERCERCoach D wants you to stop by his officebefore you leave. And dont drag yourass about it either.

DALLAS

Will do, Coach.

INT. BILLYS OFFICE LATER

Dallas comes in. Billys looking down onto the field,turns from the floor-to-ceiling window to face him.

DALLASYou wanted to see me, Coach?

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23.BILLY

Yeah. Good day in camp today, son.

DALLASThanks. Tough day in camp, Coach.

BILLY(a knowing smile)

If theyre not tough, then why bother?Have a seat. Theres something I wantto talk to you about.

They sit across from each other.

DALLASWhat is it, Coach?

BILLYYou know, you had a solid season lastyear, Dallas. Coach Mercer and thedefensive coaches have pretty highexpectations of you this year.

DALLASI know, Coach. If I can stay healthy,I think I can play up to theirexpectations, contribute a lot to theteam.

BILLYIm sure you will. Look, Dallas, Iknow that weve got pretty clear rulesabout our relationship, boundaries thatIve tried to honor out of respect foryou and your mother.

DALLASYeah, I know.

BILLY

Youre a redshirt junior, so youll beeligible for the draft after theseason. Some people think youve got ashot to make it in the NFL.

DALLAS(beat, taking it in)

Coach...its not like the thoughtsnever crossed my mind. Every guy whoever laced up shoulder pads hasfantasized about playing on Sunday

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24.BILLY

(smiles, pleased)Of course. Now, Ive talked to myagent, whos done some research. Youcould be looking at a fourth roundselection, maybe mid-to-late fifth

DALLAS(interrupts)

What I was going to say is, sure Ivethought about it, but to be honest,playing in the NFL isnt really what Isee myself doing after graduation.

Beat. Billy blinks, unsure of his hearing.

BILLY

Dallas, youre a hell of a footballplayer. Ive talked to a few people

who know about these things and some ofthem are already comparing you to ayoung John Lynch.

DALLASDont get me wrong, Coach. The chanceto compete on the big stage, the money,its all appealing to me, but...

He pauses, looks away.

BILLYBut what? Look, Dallas, I know itsdaunting. Its the NFL, for Christssake, maybe the toughest professionalsport in the world to make it in. ButColes made it with the Broncos andBurners made it with the Dolphins.Youre the same caliber player as theyare. Youve got what it takes to makeit at the next level. I know you do.

They exchange a look. Both know what Billy has leftunsaid: Because youre my son.

BILLY(easing up)

So if not the NFL, what? What do yousee yourself doing after you graduate?

DALLASIve always wanted to teach.

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25.BILLY

School?!

DALLASHigh school. Yeah. My dad...hedropped out to help support his motherand sisters. But he never lost hisrespect for education. He thought he

was the luckiest man in the world tohave married my mom; he thought she wasthe smartest woman hed ever

met...Coach, I want to teach school sothat I can encourage guys like myfather to finish their education.

A long beat. Though he covers it well, we read Billysdisappointment.

INT. ACHILLES & PORTIAS APARTMENT SUNSET

Achilles and Portia enter. She puts her backpack down,heads for the kitchen. He plops on the sofa and turns onhis LAPTOP. She comes out of the kitchen with TWO CANS OFCOKE, sits on the sofa. He swings his feet up on the sofa,props his head on her lap, begins reading messages on hisfan site. She opens the Cokes, hands him one and takes sipof her own.

PORTIA(re: messages)

Anything interesting?

ACHILLESNah, just the usual.

ON THE COMPUTER SCREEN we recognized several censoredmessages from Portias earlier hacking exercise.

PORTIA

What about that one? Open that one.

He clicks on the message and a PHOTO of an attractive womanin her 30s, posing on her hands and knees, pops up.

PORTIA(reading)

Dear Achilles, youre so sexy. I getwet just thinking about you...

(scoffs)Oh good god, woman! Get a life!

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26.She reaches down, punches keys to erase the message.

ACHILLES(protests, jokingly)

Hey! She was kind of hot!

She pours Coke on his head. He reacts, reaches up andgrabs her. They tussle playfully on the sofa. We leavethem as they begin kissing...

INT. DONAHUE DINING ROOM SUNSET

Billy, Gale, J.R. and Gracie are having dinner.

BILLYI can understand him wanting to be a

teacher. I respect that, I really do.But teaching will always be there, theopportunity to play in the NFL wont.Somehow, Ive got to talk some senseinto him.

GALEBilly, honey, you cant pressure him.Its his decision to make.

J.R.Like it was my decision to playfootball at the high school?

Gale cuts J.R. a Shoosh-it look. He sticks a forkful ofsalad into his mouth.

BILLYI know it is, Gale. I just want thatto be a well-informed decision. Rightnow hes basing it on some childhoodideal, which is noble. But what doinner city high school teachers make

starting out sixty, seventy grand?

GRACIE(impressed)

That much? Really?

J.R. rolls his eyes at her. She realizes its not a lot ofmoney, smirks at him.

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27.GALE

The season hasnt started yet. Justgive him some time to let the notionsettle in. Im sure hell come around.

And if he decides against it, well,its not the worst thing. The NFL

wasnt for Wes either, and he turnedout all right.

Billy and Gale share a look. The reference to his collegefriend and coaching rival is heavy with meaning.

BILLYAt least Wes played for three years.And he stayed in football. He didntgo off to teach auto shop at somebroken down school in East L.A.

J.R.Im no shrink, but maybe youre justirked because the one son you have

whos good at The Family Business ismore interested in following in hisstep dads shoes than in yours.

GALE(warning)

J.R.

Picking up on a vibe thats sure to turn to an argument

GRACIEDinner was delicious, Mrs. Donahue.

(standing)J.R. and I can clear away the dishes.

J.R.(vexed)

Speak for yourself, Jeeves.

GALEThank you, Gracie. Thats a good idea.J.R., please help her.

J.R.(miffed)

What?!

GRACIECome on, J.R.

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28.He gets up in a huff and helps Gracie. After theyve left.

BILLY(beat)

Hes right.

GALEPerhaps. But its not his place to saythat.

(beat)And its perfectly alright for you tofeel the way you do, honey. Dallas isyour son and hes a terrific player.Its natural for you to want him tosucceed in the profession that youvedevoted your life to.

INT. DONAHUE KITCHEN CONTINUOUS

Gracie and J.R. enter, loaded down with dirty dishes.

J.R.The next time you decide to go allDomestic Diva, do me a favor and speakfor yourself.

GRACIEYou can be such a brat sometimes, J.R.,speaking to your dad that way. Hesobviously hurt that Dallas doesnt wantto play pro football.

J.R.No, hes not hurt. Hes pissed becauseDallas still doesnt accept him as hisfather. And he shouldnt, not after

what he did to his mom.

GRACIE

(pointedly)You mean cheating on her and leavingher for another girl?

Her words hit their mark and J.R. reacts, ashamed.

Gracie starts loading the dishwasher. He drops his stackof dishes on the countertop loudly. She gives him a lookthat says, Are you going to help load or what?

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29.INT. DONAHUE DINING ROOM CONTINUOUS

BILLYI wasnt there for him when he was achild, I know. But I can help him now,Gale, the way a father should help hisson. I know what its like to make thetransition from college to pro, howthings work on and off the field.

GALEOf course you do, Billy. And you canhelp him...if he decides to go pro.

They share a look. Hers says, Give it time.

GALE

(beat)Billy, honey, theres somethingimportant I want to talk to you about.

BILLYYes, what is it?

GALEBefore Maria died, she told me howimportant it was for her to raiseDuncan in the Greek Orthodox faith.

BILLYI didnt realize Maria was religious.

GALEAfter Duncan was born, her faith tookon new meaning for her. Her eyes lit up

when she talked about seeing himchristened in the same church as her.

BILLYSo youre going to have him christened?

I think thats great, Gale.

GALEYes. And Im going to convert to theEastern Orthodox Church.

(beat)And Billy honey, I want you to convertwith me.

BILLYWhat?!

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30.INT. DONAHUE KITCHEN CONTINUOUS

J.R. and Gracie load the dishwasher, taking turns leaningover to put dishes in. At one point they lean at the sametime, almost bumping heads. They pause, look into eachothers eyes. She didnt plan this, but she wants him to

make a move. He moves in to kiss her and...she standsupright and shoves the dishwasher door closed.

GRACIEThanks for helping, J.R.

She turns away and walks out of the kitchen. He watchesher go. Ego bruised.

INT. CAT & DALLAS BEDROOM NIGHT

Incense and candles burn around the room. Dallas lay nakedon a futon on his stomach. Cat is naked astride him,giving him a sensuous, full-body massage.

CATMost guys who make it in the NFL arelucky to have three or four good years.Youd have plenty of time to fall backon a teaching career.

DALLASSo you think I should just forget about

what I really want to do with my life?Sell out? Go for the Benjamins?

CATThats not what Im saying at all,Dallas. Look, baby, I want you to do

what feels right for you. And whateveryou do is alright with me.

DALLAS

He tried to hide it, but I could tellhe was pissed at me. How could hisson not want to play in the NFL?

CATYou are his son, Dallas.

DALLAS(tensing)

Just because he got my mother pregnantdoesnt make him my father.

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31.She kisses his ear, embraces him with her oiled body.

CAT(softly in his ear)

Relax, Casanova. Im on your side.

He does.

DALLASI didnt come here just to playfootball, Red. I came here to get thebest education I could so that I can

make a difference in the lives of kids.

CAT(beat)

Dallas...you came here to meet your

father.

FADE OUT.

END OF ACT TWO

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32.ACT THREE

FADE IN:

EXT. OUTSIDE DR. ROCKOVS CONDO NIGHT

Dr. Rockov lives in a modern complex of two-story, cookie-cutter condominiums, off but near campus. Kwame, Brew,Ronnie and Jet hide in the shadows between buildings.

ANGLE ON a GREAT DANE coming down the sidewalk, strainingon his leash. We follow the leash to the dogs owner, Dr.Rockov. She reaches her condo, goes inside with the dog.

The boys hide near the patio, peek inside as Dr. Rockov andthe dog settle into their routine. They watch as she movesfrom living room to kitchen, pours food into the dogs

bowl, pours herself a vodka-rocks, eats salad and reads amagazine at the kitchen counter, etc.

RONNIEThis is a waste of time. Shes justeating dinner. Lets go!

JETShhhh! At least now we know shes not

married.

BREWThats not the bet. Its whether ornot shes a lesbo.

KWAMEAnd how are we supposed to find thatout just watching her eat?

BREWChill. Give it a few and well see

what goes on in Lesboland.

EXT. DR. ROCKOVS BALCONY LATER

Brew and Jet have made their way to the second-floorbalcony. Theyre concealed by darkness.

RONNIE (O.S.)(loud whisper)

Well, can you see anything?

Jet looks down at Ronnie and Kwame, still on the ground.

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33.JET

(sharp whisper)Shhhhhh! Shut. Up.

Then Jet and Brew peek through sheer curtains into Dr.Rockovs bedroom.

THEIR POV - DR. ROCKOV

comes out of the bathroom wearing a short, terrycloth robe.The Great Dane circles her, rubs against her eagerly. Shepets him and we hear her faintly through the window.

DR. ROCKOVSettle down, Boris. Settle down, bigboy.

When she takes off her robe, our Peeping Toms are stunned.Shes as awesome naked as she is clothed. BORIS agrees;hes so worked up he almost knocks her onto the bed.

DR. ROCKOVStop it, Boris! You behave!

Boris jumps up on top of the king size bed.

RETURN TO SCENE

BREW(stifled)

Jesus!

Dr. Rockov thinks she hears something, comes to the glassdoor. Jet and Brew press against the wall on either sideof the window, hold their breath. Dr. Rockov peersoutside. Seeing nothing, she double-checks the door lockthen pulls the privacy curtains shut.

Jet and Brew exchange a wide-eyed look. WHOA!

INT. DR. ROCKOVS BEDROOM CONTINUOUS

Dr. Rockov turns away from the balcony and goes to the bed,where Boris has made himself comfortable. She grabs hiscollar to drag him off the bed.

DR. ROCKOVHow many times do I have to tell you?Stay off the bed. Come on, get down!

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34.Boris climbs off with a thump. She replaces him in bed andturns out the light. The dog curls up on the floor infront of the balcony door.

INT. CHAMP SUSSMANS OFFICE DAY

Billy, Charlotte and Champ sit at a conference table asSasha presents her media plan, using PowerPoint slides.

SASHA...Coach, youve got to show a lot morelove to Sandy Sanderson.

BILLYHalf an hour a week during the seasonisnt enough already?

SASHAActually, Sandy wont be hostingCoachs Corner any more.

CHARLOTTEWord is Sandys going places.

BILLYGood for him and good riddance. Theguys a cretin. Wheres he headed?

SASHAMy sources tell me his agent is closingin on a lucrative deal at ESPN.

BILLYYoure shitting me. Sanderson at ESPN?

SASHA(no, Im not shitting you)

And when he leaves for Bristol, I wanthim to feel like hes your favorite

sports reporter.

BILLYWhy in hell would I make him feel that?

SASHANext month, when the Wall Hendersoncivil trial starts, who do you thinkESPN is going to assign the in-depthcoverage and analysis to?

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35.CHAMP

Did I tell you she was good?! I toldyou she was good!

Billy shoots a look at Charlotte. Her reaction tells himto bite his tongue.

CHARLOTTEI suppose we can see the strategicvalue in that. Cant we, Billy?

BILLY(unconvinced)

Sure. Now that youve laid it out soclearly, it all makes perfect sense.

SASHA

Great.

CHAMPNow tell Charlotte and Billy about yourplan for Achilles.

Charlotte and Billy are all ears. Using a clicker, Sashabegins her pitch. After a series of charts, graphs andphotos of Achilles

SASHA...Achilles Addams is undoubtedly asensational college quarterback. Lastyear he had the best QB rating in theWAC, and halfway through the season hadthe third-highest QB rating in all ofcollege football. Running a wide openspread offense this year, hes poisedto set Washington Tech records forpassing yards and touchdowns, and willalmost certainly be considered one ofthe nations elite signal callers...

CHARLOTTESasha, we know the stats.

SASHAYes, of course. We also know thatstats alone dont win the Heisman.

(to Billy)The year you won it, you threw forthree thousand yards and thirty sixtouchdowns; neither stat enough to make

(MORE)

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36.SASHA (CONTD.)

you the nations top-rated passer. Incontrast, Texas Techs Graham Harrellthrew for over five thousand yards andforty five touchdowns in the 2008season. He finished fourth in theHeisman voting.

(she pauses for effect)Heisman voting has always been a

mystery. One thing we know is thatplayers who win have more to theirstory than what happens on the field onSaturdays. In your case, Billy, youplayed for a coaching legend and justhappened to be engaged to his daughter,the reigning Miss Texas.

BILLYNot that I dont appreciate the tripdown Memory Lane, but Charlottesright. Youre not telling us anything

we dont already know. Why not skipthe corporate slideshow and just tellus what youve got in mind?

SASHAAlright. Achilles is blessed withtremendous athletic ability a laserarm, Zen-like coolness in the pocket but his greatest asset in his campaignfor the Heisman is what he possessesoff the field.

She hits the clicker and the IMAGE of a smiling Portiaappears on the screen. Billy and Charlotte react.

SASHAPortia Jacqueline Addams. Beautiful,charming, very active in the community.

A genius. Did I mention beautiful?

OFF discerning looks by Billy and Charlotte, and a big grinby Champ...

EXT. FOOD KING PARKING LOT DAY

A DODGE RAM 1500 TRUCK backs out of a parking space andjust nicks the front of a VOLVO SEDAN.

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37.Bob Garcia sticks his head out the window of the truck,ready to give the Volvo driver a piece of his mind. Hessurprised and embarrassed when he realizes the driver isElyse Johansson. He gets out of the truck, walks to thesedan.

BOBAre you alright?

ELYSE(rolls down window)

Hi. Im so sorry, Coach Garcia.

BOBNo, Im sorry, Professor Johansson. I

wasnt watching where I was going. Areyou alright?

ELYSEYes, Im fine.

He glances in the car, notices a sleeping CHILD in abooster seat.

BOB(worried)

Oh, my god, are you sure everybodysalright?

She looks back at her son.

ELYSE(smiles)

Hes fine. My little Graham wouldsleep through a nuclear blast.

BOB(smiles, relieved)

Thank goodness.

ELYSEPicking up diapers again?

Hes thrown for a moment, then remembering

BOBOh, no. This time Im here on footballbusiness, not family business. Thoughsometimes its almost impossible toseparate the two.

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38.ELYSE

I suppose we ought to exchangeinsurance information.

BOBRight. Sure.

She opens her glove compartment to get the papers. Hesabout to go to his truck to do the same, then

BOBLook, Professor Johansson

ELYSEPlease, call me Elyse.

BOB

Okay...Look, Elyse, I know this isgoing to sound pretty squirrelly of me,but do you think we could do this someother time?

(off her curious look)Im really in a hurry to get back totraining camp. I suppose thats why I

wasnt paying attention a minute ago.

She stares at him for a beat, considering.

ELYSEAlright, Coach

BOBBob.

ELYSEAlright, Bob. But youll have to buyme a double latte when we do.

BOBSure thing, Elyse.

(then)Ill be in touch soon, okay?

ELYSEOkay.

(then, with a smile)If not, I know where to find you.

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39.EXT. MEMORIAL STADIUM (TRAINING CAMP) DAY

A full contact scrimmage is underway. The hitting is hardand tempers are short. Bob hurries onto the field, takinghis place next to Billy. The head coach glares at him withice-cold disapproval.

BOBSorry Im late, Coach. I had a fenderbender on the way back.

Billy is unmoved. He shouts onto the field.

BILLYAlright, Addams, this aint no fan dayphoto shoot! Get it moving out there!

IN THE HUDDLE

Achilles takes Billys verbal abuse then turns into thehuddle to call the play.

ACHILLESOkay. Trips right, X shallow cross, Hflats Hey, what the hell?

Almost everyone in the huddle is staring at Dr. Rockov,whos chatting with a TRAINER on the opposite sideline.iPhone is one of the few not gawking. He jabs Ronnie.

RONNIEWhat the ! Oh, sorry, Q.B.

ACHILLESSomebody going to tell me what thehells more important than this play?

CRASHJet and Taylor think Dr. Rocks Offlikes dogs.

ACHILLESSo do I, but

JETNo, Q.B. She really likes dogs.

He makes the fucking gesture with his fist and hand.Achilles stares at him for a beat, incredulous, then

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40.ACHILLES

(in command)I dont care if she likes elephants!In my huddle keep your head in the damngame. Got it?!

(everybody nods)Alright, listen up: trips right, Xshallow cross, H flats, on two.

They break the huddle and hustle to the line ofscrimmage...

IN THE STANDS

Sasha comes up to Portia, whos busy on her laptop.

SASHA

Hello again.

PORTIAOh, hello. Ms. Mendez, right?

SASHARight, but please call me Sasha.

PORTIAHi, Sasha.

SASHADo you mind if I sit down?

PORTIA(closes laptop)

Please.

Sasha sits next to her. They look down at Achilles on thefield. He completes a pass to Greg, who is tackled hard byDallas. Coaches and players react to the impact of the hitby Dallas. He helps Greg up, pats him on the butt.

SASHA(re: Achilles)

He really is an incredibly giftedathlete.

PORTIAYes, he is.

SASHABut youre pretty gifted in your ownright, arent you?

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41.PORTIA

Achilles and I both work hard tosucceed at whatever we set out to do.

SASHABeautiful. Smart. Wildly popular.You two are quite a couple.

PORTIAThank you. Was there something you

wanted to talk about?

SASHAAnd very perceptive...Portia youreaware that Achilles has been touted asa possible candidate for the Heisman.

PORTIAIve heard that, yes. You really think

Achilles has a chance to win it?Playing here fifty miles from theCanadian border, in a dead media

market, in a weak conference?

SASHAWell, as head of public relations forWa Tech, an important part of my jobthis year will be to help overcomethose obstacles and get him noticed byHeisman voters.

We can almost see Portias wheels turning.

PORTIA(beat)

And you have a plan to do that...a planthat involves me?

SASHA(smiles)

Did I mention how perceptive you are?

ON THE FIELD LATER

Players are finishing up the scrimmage. SUDDENLY, anoffensive LINEMAN collapses and starts convulsing. Playersaround him react, scared shitless. Billy and the coachesrush from the sideline onto the field, looks of concern ontheir faces. On the far sideline, Dr. Rockov sees whatshappening and begins walking across the field.

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42.The lineman is unconscious, turning purple, mouth foaming.Coaches and players shout for the doctor. Dr. Rockovpushes through the mass of giant players, kneels next tothe lineman and takes complete control of the situation.

QUICK CUTS OF Dr. Rockov working quickly and with theconfidence of a trauma surgeon; using materials right thereon the field a PEN, a WATER BOTTLE, a STRAW, etc. sheperforms a tracheotomy, saving the linemans life.

A short time later, AN AMBULANCE drives onto the field.EMTs load the lineman inside on a stretcher. Dr. Rockovshakes Billys hand, climbs inside the ambulance with thelineman. The doors close and the ambulance rolls away.

RONNIEDamn. Girl can operate on me anytime.

JETNo shit. Any time.

KWAMEDogs or no dogs.

BREWDykes or no dykes.

INT. CHAMP SUSSMANS OFFICE NIGHT

Champ and Sasha are having hot, sweaty sex on his desk.

CHAMPS OFFICE - LATER

as Champ and Sasha are getting dressed

CHAMPSo the girlfriend is on board?

SASHA

Wife. And yes, completely on board.Our little Mrs. Addams is one smartcookie. She even had a few good ideasof her own.

CHAMPExcellent.

FADE OUT.

END OF ACT THREE

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43.ACT FOUR

FADE IN:

INT. ACHILLES & PORTIAS BEDROOM DAWN

Achilles lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. In his eyeswe read his unhappiness. Portia snuggles next to him,smiles in her sleep at the warmth and strength of his body.

The RADIO ALARM CLOCK comes on.

RADIO ANNOUNCER (V.O.)...and a very happy birthday to a bunchof celebrities born today, Julythirtieth: Hilary Swank, LawrenceFishburne, Arnold Schwarzenegger,

Vivica A. Fox

Achilles reaches over and turns off the alarm. Portiastirs as he slides out of bed.

PORTIA(sleepily)

Dont, baby...stay...

He kisses her softly.

ACHILLESWeve got to get a move on. Ill hitthe shower first.

She protests without fully waking. He leaves the room.

INT. KOFFEE HOUSE DAY

Bob and Elyse talk over coffee.

ELYSE

How long have you two been married?

BOBSince high school...I mean, well, wehavent been married since high school.We started dating in high school.Weve been married for eleven years,since we were seniors in college.

ELYSEAnd you and Mimi have three children?

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44.BOB

Yes four, five and seven. And you,you have just the one?

ELYSEYes. Grahams four. Greg and I havebeen together since I was a gradstudent and he was my professor atBerkeley. Well be married six yearsthis October.

BOBBerkeley, huh? So youre one of those?

ELYSEOne of those?

BOBA rabble-rouser.

Something about the way he says it stirs her inside.

ELYSE(interested)

Well, its been awhile. Though Isuppose I could still raise a littlerabble if I put my mind to it.

BOB(definitely interested)

Im sure you could.

Theres an awkward pause. Then

ELYSE(soft smile)

Bob, are you flirting with me?

BOBWell, its been awhile, but...

EXT. DONAHUE POOL DAY

Gracie is swimming. Her dog Ethel follows excitedly on theside of the pool. J.R. comes out of the house in cargoshorts and t-shirt.

J.R.You going to be much longer?

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46.J.R.

Screw you!

GRACIEHa! Dream on, Johnny! Itll neverhappen again!

She SHOVES him into the pool. Ethel climbs out, shakesoff. The dog watches J.R. as Gracie grabs a towel off achaise and goes toward the house.

EXT. DONAHUE BACK YARD CONTINUOUS

Darryl looks across the yard at J.R. in the pool, catchessight of Gracie disappearing into the house.

DARRYLWonder what that was all about?

MATTIEDarryl, are you listening to me?

DARRYL(hes not)

Young love.

MATTIE(irritation growing)

Darryl, please. Can we concentrate?We have three weeks to complete theplans for this years barbecue and

were already behind schedule by...(checks her iPhone)

four days.

Theyre at the far end of the large, beautifully landscapedyard, facing the house. He looks at her.

DARRYL

Im all ears.

MATTIEThank you. Now, like last year, wellhave to be sure not to disturb thegarden areas around Mrs. Ryanscottage, and pay special

DARRYLYou know we met on this exact spot.

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47.MATTIE

What?

DARRYLFour years ago today, July thirtieth.On this very spot.

(she tries to remember)You were bossing me around then, justlike youre doing right now.

MATTIEDarryl, Id hardly call what Im doingbossing you around. Were simplydiscussing the details of

DARRYL(with a smile)

Bossing.

She stops talking and he looks deeply into her eyes.

DARRYLI love you, Mattie.

He reaches in his pocket and produces a RING BOX. Hekneels on one knee. Shes caught totally by surprise.

EXT. MEMORIAL STADIUM (TRAINING CAMP) DAY

SERIES OF SHOTS ACHILLES IS THE MAN

An intense Achilles angrily fires a pass to Jet Johnsonthat nearly takes the receivers hands off; he zips anotherfireball to Crash Davis; and yet another one to GregEricsson...

On the sideline Billy and Bob watch their young star,quietly confident that he will lead them to the PromisedLand; television cameras roll as Sasha earnestly chats up

the press, we read her lips as she says Heisman...

In the stands, Portia reads through Achilles e-mails.Come in TIGHT on the COMPUTER SCREEN and we see one of thee-mails. At the top of the message is an IMAGE of asmiling Valerie Kim. Portia hits DELETE and the messagedisappears as we...

DISSOLVE TO:

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48.EXT. OCONNELL BEACH HOUSE (KAUAI) - DAY

A smiling and beautiful Valerie Kim walks down the aisle onher fathers arm. She glances at her mother, who beams

with pride as Valerie approaches. She looks ahead, seesher sister, Jeni Kim, and her maid of honor Nina Miller.

And of course, waiting for her at the altar, her soon-to-be-husband, the impossibly handsome Dr. Richard OConnell.

Valerie takes her place next to Richard.

MINISTERWe are gathered here today to unitethis man and this woman in holy

matrimony...

Its a perfect wedding in Paradise.

EXT. FOUR SEASONS RESORT (KAUAI) SUNSET

The wedding reception is in full swing. Among the 200GUESTS we find Nina and her boyfriend Jabari Colvin withtheir baby daughter; a dozen Delta Tau Chi sororitysisters, including Jeni, Suzy Johnson, Kristi Yamaguchi,Bella Milovich, Kelsey Hirsch and Audra Lively.

Nina kisses Jabari and their baby then heads off lookingfor someone. She comes across Jeni, who is well on her wayto seducing an AMOROUS YOUNG MAN.

NINAHave you seen Valerie?

JENIYes, shes right over there with

Jeni looks across the room at Richard, who is not withValerie.

JENIOh. Guess not.

Jeni turns her attention back to the amorous young man.We track with Nina through the crowd, asking sororitysisters the same question, Have you seen Valerie?

INT. FOUR SEASONS HOTEL CONTINUOUS

Nina crosses the gorgeous lobby to an elevator

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49.INT. FOUR SEASONS HOTEL SUITE CONTINUOUS

Nina enters the darkened suite. She crosses the main room,sees Valerie on the balcony watching the sunset.

EXT. BALCONY CONTINUOUS

When Nina comes onto the balcony, Valerie turns to faceher. Valerie forces a smile, but its obvious shes beencrying. Nina notices the CELL PHONE in her hand.

OFF Ninas concern...

INT. HOSMER COMPLEX SUNSET

Achilles stands alone in the shadows, holding a CELL PHONEto his ear.

PHONE SYSTEM VOICE (V.O.)To hear this message again, press one.

Achilles lowers the phone, presses 1, then puts the phoneto his ear again and listens.

VALERIE (V.O.)Hi, Achilles, its me. You know whathappened today...It seems as thoughIve been waiting for this day for aslong as I can remember. And now itsfinally come...It was everything Idreamed it would be, Achilles...Pleasedont be upset with me, but there weretimes today when I was so very happy.

(beat)Still...before I said I do, I found

myself hoping that you would rush in,like in that movie, and take me away,

with my parents and Richards parents

yelling and at you to stop, and merunning off with you into the sunset.But of course you didnt come.

(beat)Achilles, you know I believe indestiny. And I know in my heart thatyou are my destiny. Just as you knowthat Im yours. We will be together,

Achilles. Nothing can change that.Until then, remember this my love: you

will always be first in my heart.

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50.Achilles takes the phone from his ear. He stares at it fora long couple of beats. Then he starts pressing buttons.CLOSE ON the PHONE SCREEN as he follows the familiarinstructions. We hear the phone system voice as he does.

PHONE SYSTEM VOICE (V.O.)To delete this message press seven.

(he presses 7)Message deleted. You can undelete bypressing nine before hanging up.

Achilles finger hovers for a long beat over the red hangup button then he presses...9.

PHONE SYSTEM VOICE (V.O.)Message will be saved for fourteendays.

EXT. HOSMER COMPLEX SUNSET

Achilles comes out of the glass and steel building, walkstoward his motorcycle. Portia is perched on it, legscrossed, smiling. They kiss softly on the lips.

PORTIAHey, baby.

ACHILLESHey.

They climb on the bike, pull on their helmets. He startsthe powerful engine. She wraps her arms tightly around his

waist and they roar off.

DISSOLVE TO:

INT. NURSERY SUNSET

CLOSE ON the sleeping face of a one-year-old, curly-haired,

mixed-race BABY. Becky SOFTLY SINGSS A LULLABY, then

BECKY (O.S.)Thats Mommys Angel. You are mylittle angel...