THE STORY OF BETH

by Rock Shaink Jr.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

fade IN:

INT Townhouse living room -Thanksgiving nIGHT

An attractive array of ADULTS are gathered in this festively decorated New York City townhouse.  CATERERS diligently offer mixed drinks and canapés as the guests mix and mingle.

The doorbell chimes as the MAID scurries to let in MIKE KALVIN and BETHANY BELYEAH.  Mike, in his early thirties, is wearing an overly festive turtleneck and is beginning to show a receding hairline. Beth is a late-twenties, conservatively dressed, vision of innocence.  She wears a nice dress, not too flashy, but elegant.  They intertwine with the crowd.

The doorbell chimes again, this time revealing EVAN PELCHET And RENEE GAYLE.  Evan is a mid-thirties, unassuming kind of handsome, with brown hair and a slight smile.  Renee looks the part of an empowering businesswoman in her early thirties.  A two-piece suit, short brown hair, and light makeup complete her image.

iNT TOWNHOUSE kitchen -LATER

Evan sits alone tucked away on the floor.  He's drinking a beer under the unapproving eyes of the caterers.

Beth sneaks in, trying to flee the party.  She is almost hovering over Evan when he finally speaks.

Evan

Trying to escape?

beth

(surprised)

Oh.  No, I just needed to find...

Beth looks around for something, finally settling for a fork.

bETH

Well, yes, maybe I am.

Evan

Here alone?

bETH

No.  I'm with someone.

Evan

That boring?

bETH

No, they...well, maybe a little.

Evan

Aren't they all though?

BETH

Some are nice.  I met a few....

Evan

Oh don't worry; I don't blame you for escaping.  There's only so much mingling anyone should have to live through.

Beth smiles in agreement, loosens up and sits by Evan.

bETH

I know.  I always picture these parties as what it's like to be famous.

Evan

Only in New York.

bETH

What do you mean?

Evan

In New York any kind of celebrity is seen as a conversational target.  Every guy on the street feels that if a celebrity is in public, that's reason enough to strike up a conversation.

bETH

Really?

Evan

Sure.  I remember seeing Derek Jeter down on Forty-Second by the library, surrounded by people who felt obligated to a conversation with him.

bETH

Well he deserves it; I hate the Yankees.

Evan

I have to agree with you there.  I think that's the kind of thing I love about New York- the abrasive manner of the people.

bETH

I hate it.

They share a laugh.

bETH

Okay maybe I don't hate it.  But I'll admit I'm not that big a fan of the city either.

Evan

(sarcastically)

How can you not fall madly in love with this city?

bETH

It's too- I don't know, stuffy.  You don't know ninety-nine percent of the people, but at least twenty percent of them know what you're doing.  In fact, I don't think I've had any privacy in the past five years.

Evan

I guess that's just something you get used to. 

Evan takes a swig from his beer.

eVAN

So how did you end up in New York if you blatantly despise it?

BETH

Try being a modern dance instructor in rural Ohio!

Evan

Modern dance.  I've always wondered how  someone becomes involved in that?

bETH

I was really into cheer-leading growing up...

(off Evan's look)

I know what you're thinking.  All cheerleaders are blonde and can barely spell their names.

Evan laughs as he moves to the fridge.  He offers Beth a beer as he grabs himself another.

bETH

No thanks, I shouldn't.

Evan begins to close the fridge door.

beTH

Well- maybe one.

Evan opens the beer and hands it to her.  He leans against the counter.

beTH

Anyway, I was doing all of these contests for the cheerleading thing, and I started to realize how mundane it was.  So I applied to a local arts school; and as the instructor would have put it...

Beth stands and does a small hand pirouette.  She leans on the counter opposite Evan.

bETH

I discovered myself.

Evan

So why the big city of loathe, not somewhere else?

bETH

I was offered a job instructing for a dance school over on the West Side, and the rest is history.

Evan

So you live somewhere you hate, so that you can teach something you love.

They both share a smile.

bETH

Balanced, right.

Both sit silent for a moment as a CATERER walks between them.

bETH

How about you?  What do you do?

Evan

Well- when I'm not writing about the Yankees, I tend to write about my love for the city.

Beth stares at him nervous.

Evan

Kidding.  Seriously though, I write fiction, and I watch the Red Sox.

bETH

Wow, that's amazing!

Evan smiles, the smile he's done a million times when someone realizes he's a writer.

betH

I didn't think anyone liked the Red Sox anymore.

Evan's smile falters.

Evan

What's not to like?  Six painstaking months a year followed by an "almost".

He swigs his beer as Beth pats his arm in playful sympathy.

bETH

So, what kind of fiction?

Evan

Probably nothing you've seen.  A few books, small time stuff.  Nothing they're making a movie out of.

Beth's eyes light up.

BETH

Wait, I know where I know you from.  You teach a seminar at the New School, don't you?

Evan hangs his head in mock shame.

Evan

Guilty!

bETH

I've seen your picture around town.  Is it just for fiction?

Evan

Just fiction.

bETH

(curiously)

Good money in fiction?

Evan

Livable.

bETH

Why don't you write screenplays?

Evan laughs.

Evan

I swear- you're my agent in a woman's body.

bETH

What?

Evan

My agent, he's been riding me to write a screenplay for years.

bETH

So why don't you?

evAN

And she goes for the jugular.

(beat)

I guess it has something to do with- well, I guess I'm afraid of destroying a good story.

Evan swigs his beer, and thinks.

evAN

Besides, what's wrong with fiction?  Doesn't anyone read anymore?

bETH

When I can't afford the movie.

Beth smiles playfully.

bETH

So what are you writing now?

Evan

I'm working on a novel about...

Mike walks in mid-sentence.  Evan and Beth straighten up. 

Mike

There you are!

evAN/beth

Yeah!

Beth and Evan exchange glances as Mike notices Evan.

mIKE

Hey buddy, where the hell you been?  You know Renee's been searching!

Evan lifts his beer and shrugs.

mIKE

Oh, Evan I want you to meet my date:

Evan, Beth; Beth, Evan.

Evan

Wonderful to meet you.

bETH

Likewise.

They shake hands and smile.

Evan

I suppose I should go find the significant other before she calls in a search party.

mIKE

We'll be out in a second.

Evan exits the kitchen.  Mike leans to the fridge, and grabs a beer.

mIKE

That's the guy I was telling you about.  We've been best friends since high school.

Beth watches him go.

mIKE

He's a great guy.

Caterer

They're serving dinner now.

iNT TOWNHOUSE living room -cONTINUOUS

Beth and Mike exit the kitchen and head upstairs to the dining room.  Beth watches Evan wrap his arm around Renee.  They laugh with the COUPLE they are talking with.

mIKE

If they'd had me cook dinner tonight, we would have eaten on time.

Beth breaks her glance and smiles at Mike.

iNT TOWNHOUSE dining room -lATER

An immense dining table is surrounded by some thirty or so PEOPLE.  An array of designer clothing is draped upon this upper class mix, ranging in age from their twenties, to their late forties, with a few exceptions.

As the HOST finishes up her speech Evan turns his attention to an unaware Beth.

host (O.s.)

And I want to thank you all for being part of what has become a wonderful Thanksgiving tradition...

Evan's glance returns to the host as the people raise their glasses in cheer.  Evan and Beth meet eyes until Renee leans in and kisses Evan full on.  He opens his eyes to Mike raising his glass to him for a personal cheer.

iNT TOWNHOUSE living room -lATER

Evan and Renee are arm-in-arm saying their "good-byes" at the door.  Evan turns to Mike and Beth as the maid returns with the wrong coat.

renee

(belittling)

No, this isn't my coat either.  Black with grey, not black and grey.

Evan watches Beth excuse herself from Mike.

Evan

Honey, why don't you go with her to find your coat.  I'm going to go say bye to Mike.

rENEE

I guess I'll have to if I want to leave tonight.

Evan follows behind Beth, but is pulled aside by MARCUS.  Marcus is a man in his late forties.  Both his clothing and demeanor are quite conservative.

marcus

Evan, my friend.  How's the writing?

Evan looks to the hall Beth has retreated to, and back to Marcus.

evAN

Good, good.  How are things with you?

maRCUS

Alright.  Work is well.

evAN

How is Renee doing there?

marCUS

Great.  She's moving right up the ladder.   In fact, I may get a raise for recommending her.

evAN

I knew she was perfect for the job.

Evan looks to the hall again as a WOMAN exits.

evAN

Marcus, really great to see you, but you'll have to excuse me, I really have to use the rest room.

maRCUS

Of course, if you have to go, then you have to go.

iNT TOWNHOUSE lower hall -cONTINUOUS

Evan turns the corner to see Beth standing behind an ELDERLY WOMAN in the bathroom line.  He quietly slides behind her unnoticed. 

Evan

Hi!

bETH

(startled)

My God.  I didn't see you!

The elderly woman acknowledges the new addition to the line behind her.

elderly woman

(in a loud tone)

Hello!

Evan

Hi!

bETH

Hi!

eLDERLY WOMAN

Isn't this party lovely!

bETH

Absolutely.

Evan

Wonderful!

eLDERLY WOMAN

Except that artichoke spread.

(attempting to whisper)

Makes you gassy.

Evan and Beth nod their heads in agreement.

Evan

Well I hope it was worth it.

eLDERLY WOMAN

What's that dear?

Evan

Oh.

(raising his voice)

I said, "Yum," I like it.

A MAN exits the bathroom, and the elderly woman makes her way in.  Evan and Beth stand silently until they're alone.

Evan

Mike's a good guy.

bETH

Yes, he is.

Evan

Not boring.

bETH

No.

(startled)

Oh.  No!  I didn't mean he was boring.

Evan

Don't worry about it, I can keep a secret.

Beth winces.

Evan

At least until my next novel.

Beth playfully hits him in the arm.  This creates an awkward comfort between them.  They stand silent as the elderly woman exits the bathroom.

eLDERLY WOMAN

False alarm.

Both smile as the elderly woman farts.

eLDERLY WOMAN

(to Beth)

You may want to wait a few minutes though dear.

Evan

(to the elderly woman)

Let me escort you back to the party.

eLDERLY WOMAN

Oh, why that would be lovely.

Evan

(to Beth)

See you at Christmas.

bETH

What?

Evan

Christmas.  Same thing, someone else's house.

eLDERLY WOMAN

Did I ever tell you about the time I ate crab cakes at this...

Beth watches Evan escort the woman to the main room.

BETH

(to Evan)

Didn't you have to use the bathroom?

eXT basketball court -dAY

It is a winter day.  The courts have been shoveled off, leaving piles of snow along the side.  Evan and Mike play a game of one-on-one.

Evan

So, how was New Hampshire?

MIKE

Same as it was when we went to school there.

Evan

Figured as much.

mIKE

Except that I was looking at it all from the living room couch after eating half a turkey.

Evan

We ate quite a bit ourselves.

mIKE

I saw your parents at the town parade.

Evan

They weren't too pleased we couldn't make it this year.  But, by the time Renee was out of work, and...

mIKE

Hey, you don't need to feed me excuses.

Mike half steps to the left, then slips right to the hoop.  They return to the point to go again.

mIKE

Yeah, they were sad you didn't make it. But they asked me the craziest thing.

Evan

What?

MiKE

They wanted to know...

(beat)

Nah, never mind!

Evan

What?!

mIKE

It's nothing, never mind.  Promised I wouldn't tell.

They both grin at each other.

Evan

Wouldn't tell?  We tell each other everything.  And half the time it's things I still wish I didn't know.

mIKE

Everything?

Evan

Everything!

Mike stops for a moment.

mIKE

What color undies was Renee wearing last night?

Evan

(playfully)

Screw you!

mIKE

(mocking Evan)

Everything!

Evan

Wait, that's right, I remember now. They were red- the same color I'm going to knock out of your nose.

Evan jokingly chases Mike around the court, still playing ball.

mIKE

Violence, look out.

Evan corners Mike.

Evan

Come on!

mIKE

Alright, alright.  They asked me if you and Renee were gonna get married soon.

A sudden mood spoiler stops both.

Evan

Oh!

mIKE

Yeah.

They sheepishly play on.

mIKE

So, what is happening with you two?  You've been together for what, three years?

Evan

Four.

mIKE

Any future plans?

Evan

I don't know.  In a way I feel like we already are married.  But other times, we're just two very different people.

They play silently for a moment.

Evan

What about you?  You ever think about it?

mIKE

What, marriage?  Maybe someday.  You know, if I meet someone worth it.

Evan

(intrigued)

What about Beth?

Mike misses his shot as Evan rebounds.

mIKE

Beth?  Beth's great- plus she's wild in the sack.  Loves it when I...

Evan

Okay, okay.  Seriously though, no plans?

mIKE

Who knows?

Mike steals the ball.

mIKE

You know what I do know?

Evan

What?

Mike pushes toward the basket.

mIKE

I definitely told your parents Renee was pregnant.

Evan

Funny!

Evan aggressively blocks Mike, who continues in for more.

mIKE

A little Evan on the way.  Told them it was going to be a surprise at Christmas.

Evan

Keep it going.

Mike shoots the final shot, winning the game.  They head towards the benches laughing.

EXT city street -DAY

Evan is bundled up and scurrying along a cold and snowy street.  As he passes, business OWNERS are busy decorating their shops for Christmas.  He enters a small diner.

iNT diner -cONTINUOUS

This nostalgic-looking diner is decorated with Christmas spirit.  Evan takes off his coat, and hangs his bag, while exchanging hellos with most of the STAFF and the counter girl JESSIE.

jessie

Hey Evan!  The usual?

Evan nods.

Evan

Thanks, Jessie.

Evan scans the booths and does a double take on Beth walking out of the bathroom.

bETH

What are you doing here?

Evan

Just getting something to eat.

bETH

(Re: Jessie's remark)

The usual?

Evan

I guess you could say I've kind of become addicted to their fries.

bETH

(confused)

O-kay?

Evan

Right!  So, what about you, I thought you lived uptown?

Beth points to SHANNON BRASHFORD.  An attractive and tall model type in her late twenties.

bETH

I do.  But, two times a week I meet my friend Shannon here for a late breakfast.

Evan looks at his watch.

Evan

Yes, I believe four in the afternoon would constitute a late breakfast, wouldn't it?

bETH

Better late then never.  Why don't you join us?

Evan

I couldn't.

(lifting his bag)

I have work to edit.

Beth grabs Evan's arm.

bETH

Come on, just for a minute.  I'll even share my toast and jam.

Beth pulls Evan to the table.

Evan

Oh, how can one resist the power of toast and jam.

bETH

(introducing)

Shannon, I'd like you to meet Evan.  Evan, this is Shannon.

Evan and Beth sit in the same side of the booth.

sHANNON

So, you're the writer Beth talks about.

Evan smiles at Beth.

Evan

I didn't know I was talked about.

bETH

I was telling her about Thanksgiving.

Evan

Oh, right.

sHANNON

And how handsome you looked.

Beth kicks Shannon under the table.

bETH

A-hem!

(embarrassed, to Evan)

Sorry.

Evan

Nothing to be sorry over.

Jessie arrives with Evan's fries.

evAN/BETH

Thanks Jessie!

The table shares a laugh.

bETH

Seriously, all the way to the Theater District just for the fries?

Evan

Well, if I told you I assembled a team and searched all the diners in the five boroughs for better, you'd think I was crazy, right?

Evan smiles at both laughing women.

Evan

No.  I used to live on Forty-Eighth and Ninth, above the Spanish restaurant- El Deportivo, I think?  Anyway, I came to town with very little money.  The diner was close, quiet and cheap.

bETH

And apparently they have the best fries.

Evan

No one compares.  Try them before you doubt their power.

bETH

No, thanks!

sHANNON

Can't.  Need to stay fit for the camera.

Evan

Model?

sHANNON

Actress!

Evan

Anything I've seen?

sHANNON

Only if you watch Saturday morning kid's shows.

Evan

Sorry, can't say that I do.

sHANNON

It's okay.  It seems that only the men I date do...and that's actually a bit scary.

Beth reaches for a fry and Evan playfully slaps her hand.

bETH

Ow!

Evan

Sorry, one-time offer.

Beth smiles and grabs a fry as Shannon's cell phone rings.

sHANNON

(on phone)

Hello!  What?  When?  Okay, where is it?

She frantically grabs a napkin and a pen from her bag.

sHANNON

Okay, great.  I'll be there in twenty.

Shannon hangs up her phone and grabs her things.

bETH

Good news?

sHANNON

Commercial audition.  Last minute call-back for a tampon ad.  I have twenty minutes to get to Union Square.

evAN

Don't want to be late for that.

Shannon frantically stands while gathering her things, as Evan and Beth share a laugh.

bETH

Good luck!

sHANNON

Thanks, I'll call you.  Evan, great to meet you.

Evan

You too, good luck!

sHANNON

Thanks.

Evan and Beth watch Shannon hastily exit the diner and jump in front of an oncoming cab.  They laugh until they realize the tension of them being alone.  They sit in silence for a moment.

Evan

Want to go for a walk?

bETH

Sure.

eXT central park -late afternoon

They walk along the plowed sidewalks of a snow-covered park.  The sun begins to fade.

Evan

I love the city in the winter.

bETH

And the fact that heat is included in my rent.

Evan

Well yes.  But I love what the snow does to the city.  It covers up everything, and displays it as a beautiful white cloud.  It allows you to forget what's really underneath, and to just imagine what you really want to be there.

bETH

It really puts a new perspective on the city, doesn't it? 

Evan stops and squares up to a bench.

evAN

Here it is.

Beth looks around and laughs.

beTH

What?

evAN

My favorite place in this city.

Evan wipes snow off the bench.

beTH

This is your favorite place?

evAN

Yes. 

Beth looks at the surroundings, and nothing special presents itself.

beth

Why?

Evan sits on the bench, and takes in his surroundings.

evAN

This is where I wrote my first novel.  I've always returned here because it is where I've done my best work, and had my best ideas.

Beth steps off the walkway towards the bench.  She stops, looks at her feet and laughs.

bETH

I forgot how much I love this sound.

Evan

What sound?

Beth steps around in the snow, making that SQUISH noise we all know. 

 

bETH

Listen to it.  I don't know why, but it's always been comforting.  A reminder of when we were kids, I suppose.

Evan steps off the path and walks around in the snow making the same noise.  He smiles innocently.

Evan

I guess it is.

bETH

Not as comforting as this though.

A snowball comes whirling into Evan's chest.  Beth laughs hysterically.

Evan

Oh, and you think that was funny!

Evan grabs a handful of snow and tosses it at a retreating Beth.

bETH

(giddy)

Missed me, missed me!

They continue throwing snowballs at each other.

eXT Central park west -lATER

Evan and Beth come walking out of the park covered in snow.

bETH

See, I told you.  Starbucks, Fifty-Ninth Street.

Evan

I swear I've walked by here a million times.

bETH

Well I'm here almost every morning before work.

iNT starbucks -nIGHT

Evan and Beth sit at a window seat dripping wet snow.  They sip their coffees, smiling at each other. (never eye to eye)

bETH

So Mike tells me you...

Evan's cell phone rings.

Evan

Sorry.

(on phone)

Hello!  Hi!  No, I'm still on the West Side.

Beth's smile fades.

Evan

(on phone)

Oh nothing, just stopped for coffee.  Alright I'll pick it up.  Which cleaner?  Okay, that's the one on York, right?  Okay, I'll see you then.

(beat)

Right, what?  I did!  No, I just did. I love you.  Okay, bye.

Evan hangs up and looks back at an absorbed Beth.

Evan

Sorry about that.

bETH

(nonchalantly)

No problem.  She is your girlfriend, right.

Beth shines a fake smile.

Evan

Right, yes she is.

Beth looks at her watch.

bETH

Oh my, it's late.

Evan looks at his watch as Beth stands.

bETH

I'd better get going.  Lots to do before tomorrow.

Evan

Right.  And I've got dry-cleaning to pick up.

beth

Right.

eXT sTARBUCKS -mOMENTS LATER

Evan and Beth exit Starbucks, still sliding into their winter outerwear.  They stop, glance at each other and settle on a quick hug.

bETH

Goodbye.

Evan

See you.

They turn in opposite directions and walk off.  After a few steps Evan turns back, realizing he has one of her mittens.

Evan

Beth.

Beth hears him, but continues on.  Evan hastily walks toward her.

Evan

(yelling)

Beth.

Beth stops and hesitantly turns to come face-to-face with Evan.  Evan is visibly nervous.

Evan

I, um.  I have your mitten.

Evan hands her the mitten, and she sighs, expecting more.

beth

Thanks!

Beth turns to leave.

evAN

I, I also wanted to tell you I had a wonderful time today,

(looking at the darkening sky)

tonight, with you.

bETH

Me too.

Evan

And, I'm not sure if it's okay, but I thought maybe, if you wanted, we could do it again some time.

Beth looks at him confused.

Evan

As friends!

bETH

Right, friends.  Sure.

Evan

Okay, definitely.  Um, should I get in touch, or...

beTH

How about...  Well, my studio, it's called Danser.

Evan finds a pen and paper in his coat, and begins to write.  He stops almost immediately, and realizes he doesn't know how to spell it out, and hands them to her.  Beth writes the name of the studio down, and returns the paper to him.

Evan

D-a-n-s-e-r.

(beat)

French?

beTH

That it is.  Dance- danser.

evAN

Great name.  So then, I'll see you soon?

bETH

Okay.  Have a good night.

They are so close you expect them to kiss.  Beth hesitates, and then turns first.

iNT Evan & Renee's bedroom -nIGHT

The bedroom is a modern design, yet still holding some of Evan's conservative pieces.

Evan sits up in bed with his lamp on, and a book in his hand.  Next to him in the dim light is Renee, fast asleep.  Her body looks miles away.  Evan glances off at nothing.

iNT beth's living room -NIGHT

Beth sits on the floor of her artfully decorated, yet cramped one bedroom apartment.  Her entire apartment consists of one bedroom, and an everything else room resembling a studio split into areas.  She drinks wine, and holds a folded dance magazine, but she stares out at nothing.

iNT fancy restaurant kitchen -DAY

Evan enters through the back door of this elegantly large commercial kitchen and scans the room.

Mike enters from another door, his arms full of steaks.

mIKE

Hey, look who it is.

Evan

How's work?

Mike drops the steaks on the counter.

mIKE

Oh you know, cook, cook, cook.  About the same.  What about you?

Mike preps the steaks.

Evan

I was just walking through the neighborhood.  Thought I'd stop in and say hello.

mIKE

You want something to eat?  Just got these strips in.

Evan

No.  The maid put together some omelettes this morning, I'm still full.

Mike points to a cluster of bottles.

mIKE

Pass me that.

Evan looks a long line of seasonings that could be potential "that's."

Evan

Um?

mIKE

The white container with red writing.

Evan hands Mike the seasoning.

mIKE

Thanks.

Mike sprinkles the seasoning on the steaks.

Evan

So what are you doing tonight?

mIKE

I got tickets to that blues festival down in the Village.  Figure I'd take Beth out, show her a good time.

Evan

Sounds great.

mIKE

Why?  What are you doing?

Evan

Nothing.  Probably rent something.  Renee's out of town for work again.

mIKE

Come along with us?  I'm sure there'll be tickets at the door.

Evan

Actually, I think I might get dinner with Lisa.

mIKE

There you go!  You two, dinner, a movie, you know.

Mike stops prepping to make some sexual motions, closely resembling a rodeo cowboy.

Evan

What?  No, come on, I've been with Renee for four years.

Mike returns to work.

mIKE

Okay, but admit it, she's a fox. Hell, I'd jump on that opportunity in a heartbeat.

Evan

Well we're just friends.  Besides, I could never do that to Renee.

mIKE

If you say so, you're a better man than me.  I just hope your only reason isn't because you've been with Renee for four years.

Evan

What's that supposed to mean?

mIKE

Just saying.  This isn't a length competition. 

Evan

I know. 

(beat)

I love her, you know.

mIKE

You don't gotta convince me.

Evan

Okay. 

(beat)

Well, I'm going to run.  Have fun at the festival.  I'll talk to you later.

mIKE

Hey, I didn't mean anything by that length thing.  I'm just talking crazy, you know.

Evan

I know.

Evan exits out the back door.

mIKE

Tell Lisa I said hi.

iNT fancy italian restaurant -nIGHT

Evan sits at a table with LISA LANDOLFI.  She is an attractive Italian woman, slightly older than Evan.  She is dressed very fashionably.

Evan

And she's been on my mind ever since.

lisa

That's nothing!

Evan

Nothing?

lISA

Let's see.  You haven't slept together, kissed, or even talked on the phone.  You can get away with more than that in the meat-packing district and still have nothing.

Evan

But I want to.  That's the problem.  What does that say about my relationship with Renee?

lISA

It says you have a cock.  You're a man.

Both laugh as a passing WAITER gives Lisa a startled glare.

lISA

Seriously Evan, it doesn't say anything. You're just like everyone else in this department.  Do you think Renee thinks about you and only you?

Evan thinks about Lisa's comment.

lISA

You're human.  We all have a need to seek something new, a new stimulation.

Evan

I know, I know.  It's just this girl- I feel like she's more.  As corny as it sounds, she's what I've been looking for.  It feels like I had forgotten what I wanted until I met her.

lISA

Then maybe you need to take a look at what you want now, and what you want for the future.  You and Renee have been together for three years...

Evan

Four.

lISA

You can't always plot out your life Evan.  Maybe what you miss is the newness of you and Renee.  You need to mix things up at home.  Maybe what you feel now for...what was her name?

Evan

Beth.

lISA

Maybe what you feel for Beth is what you miss feeling with Renee!

Evan

I don't know.  I love Renee, I do.  It's just, Beth- she makes me feel something I haven't felt in a long time.  She makes me feel like the person I want to be.

Lisa sits up, somewhat taken aback.

lISA

Maybe you should call her.

Evan shakes his head.

Evan

I can't.

lISA

Why not?

Evan

She's Mike's girlfriend.

Lisa gives Evan a stunned look.

Evan 

(off Lisa's look)

I know, I know.  But it's not like I planned this.  I didn't sit and decide, I think tomorrow I'll start falling in love with my best friend's girlfriend, and while I'm at it, why don't I do it all right behind my girlfriend's back.

lISA

"Falling in love?"

Evan

Figure of speech.  I don't know what it is.  I have feelings for someone I can't have feelings for.

iNT dessert shop -dAY

Beth sits at a table in this '50s replica dessert shop.  She sits by the window enjoying her sundae; people watching.

eXT dessert shop cITY STREET -DAY

Evan walks along the street past the dessert shop.  He slows and back steps in front of the shop.  He sees Beth waving from inside.

iNT deSSERT SHOP -cONTINUOUS

Evan enters and walks to Beth's table.

Evan

Hi!

bETH

H-hello.

They're both nervous.

Evan

How have you been?

bETH

Fine, you?

Evan

Keeping busy, writing.

Both pause for a moment.

Evan

You know, I haven't heard from you since...

Mike returns from the bathroom.

mIKE

Look who it is.

Evan is startled.

Evan

Mike, hi!

mIKE

What are you doing here?  You hate sweets.

Evan

Oh, I saw Beth and...

Evan eyes Mike's coat.

Evan

Your coat.  Thought I'd stop in and say hello.

Mikes gives Evan an off-beat look.

mIKE

My coat?  O-kay.

Evan feels Mike's coat.

Evan

(convincingly)

Well it is a nice coat, isn't it?  Hard to miss.

Mike eyes his coat, then Evan.

mIKE

Yeah, it is a pretty nice coat, isn't it. 

Mike begins to sit.

mIKE

You staying?

Evan

No, I can't.  I have to meet my agent downtown.  Big meeting.

mIKE

Okay.  What are you doing later?  Wanna shoot hoops?

Evan

Give me a call.

mIKE

Alright, see you later.

Evan

Bye.

Evan turns and exits, but pauses once outside.  Once out of Mike's view he waves to the aware Beth.

mIKE

Do you think he was acting a little weird around me?

bETH

(giggling)

I don't know.

iNT Drew's office -dAY

Evan is lying on the leather couch of an elegantly designed office.  He is reading a copy of VARIETY and drinking an EVIAN.

DREW HEIFETZ, a tall and lanky, yet handsome Englishman in his late thirties enters the room.  He is closely followed by four ASSISTANTS fighting for his time.  He spots Evan.

drew

That's what I like to see.

He signs a few papers then dismisses the assistants with a wave of his hand.

Evan

Me laying across your leather couch?

Drew circles around his desk to the bar.

dREW

No.  You thinking of finally writing films.

Drew lifts a bottle of scotch as Evan sits confused.

dREW

Drink?

Evan realizes the copy of "Variety" he's holding.

Evan

No.  And not quite.

dREW

It's too bad.  I've been doing a lot of work in film.

Evan

Not for me.

Drew tops off his glass, ignores Evan, and moves over to the chair beside the couch.

dREW

Slowly involving myself more-and-more in production.  A few commercials, I make the connections, and I already know the people.  Speaking of which, we were talking about you the other day.

Evan

Me?  What about?

dREW

About buying the movie rights to one of your books, having you adapt.

 

eVAN

Not interested.

dREW

That's what I told them.  So they suggested we just find a fresh college grad and hire them to adapt it.

Evan's face shows a calm distress.

Evan

Fine.  If you want to buy it, it's yours.

dREW

Good.  That's what I  told them.

They sit silent for a moment.

dREW

So do you have any pages for me?

iNT Evan & RENEE'S APARTMENT OFFICE -NIGHT flashback

Evan sits staring at his blank screen.  The cursor blinking away, producing nothing.

iNT drew's office -day

Evan

I have pages.  I'm just reworking them a bit before..

dREW

Before? Before I die?

Evan

(solid)

I just want them to be right.

dREW

Still battling with the writer's block, are we?

Evan

No.

dREW

I've often wondered what you teach in your seminars, when you yourself can't write?

Evan

I can write.  It's just a momentary thing.  The holidays and everything.

dREW

The holidays didn't start over the summer.

Evan

(annoyed)

Really?  Thanks for pointing that out.

Another silent moment.  Drew sips his drink and smiles.

dREW

Did I tell you about this woman I met?

Evan

No.

dREW

The other day we were shooting a commercial.  Beautiful that one.

Evan leans back and looks at Drew with amusement.

Evan

What does she do?

Drew pauses; embarrassed.

dREW

I know what you're going to say.

Evan

About what?

Drew braces himself for the reply.

dREW

She's an actress.

Evan sits back with a big grin.

Evan

He's fallen.

Both share a laugh.

dREW

I know, I know, but she's great.

Evan

They always are in the beginning, aren't they.

DREW

I'll chance the "I told you so".

Both laugh as Drew gets up for another drink.

dREW

How about you?  How's life?

Evan

Eventful.

dREW

How so?

Evan

Where oh where to begin?  Let's see: I'm falling in love with the woman who's dating my best friend;  Renee is so distant, I'm surprised she remembers we live together;  And to top it all off, I'm starting to wonder if I've made even one right decision in my life.

Drew makes his way back to the chair, with a shocked look on his face.

dREW

That'd be a hell of a film.

Evan gives an earnest look.

dREW

Just saying, besides I thought I was your best friend.

Both laugh (Drew a little longer and harder).

An ASSISTANT enters the room.

assistant

Mr. Heifetz, your three o'clock is here. Should I-

The assistant notices Evan.

aSSISTANT

Oh, sorry.  I didn't...

dREW

It's okay, I'll be with you in a moment.

The assistant turns and exits with a hasty step.  Drew follows her to the door.

dREW

Sorry, I've got to talk to this new writer from Philly.  We just sold his screenplay for a fortune, so I have to convince him that he wants to sign a longer contract.

Evan meets Drew at the door.

Evan

No problem, I'll leave you to your prey.

Evan shakes his head.

dREW

Ha, ha.  But seriously, let's talk more.  Dinner this week?

Evan

I'll call you.

dREW

Alright.  Take care.

Evan exits.

dREW

(yelling)

And good luck.

eXT park avenue -laTER

Evan is walking amongst a barrage of Christmas TOURISTS.  He watches the people fill their hands with bags full of gifts.  He notices the trees are lit, and smiles just as a TOURIST knocks him down with her shopping bag.

iNT Evan & Renee's apartment kitchen -lATER

Evan is wrapping a bag of frozen peas around his leg with an ace bandage.

iNT EVAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT OFFICE -cONTINUOUS

Evan limps in, and flips on the computer.  The shelves are full of manuscripts.  His tack board is full of story lines. He loads the printer with paper and sits looking at the blank page on the computer.  The jack-hammering cursor almost taunts him.

 

eXT pARK AVENUE -dAY

The city is in full-blown Christmas mode.  The VENDORS are plentiful, only outnumbered by the shop-happy TOURISTS.  Evan and Mike walk along with a couple of shopping bags each.

mIKE

And they called back and said they wanted me for the Christmas special.

Evan

So, you are going to be the guest on "Cooking with Chloe"!

mIKE

Not just the guest, the Christmas chef co-host.  That's a huge honor.

Evan nods, approvingly.

mIKE

We tape next Monday.

Evan

That early before Christmas?

mIKE

Yeah, they tape it early so everyone can have the holidays off, you know.

Mike stops at a VENDOR selling sweaters and scarves.  Evan watches him, then quickly catches a glimpse of a WOMAN in a limo driving by.  The woman looks exactly like Renee.  As Evan watches her, she spots him, and the tinted window rises to a close.

Mike picks up a lackluster baby-blue scarf.

mIKE

You think Beth will like this?

Mike notices Evan isn't paying attention.

miKE

Hello?

iNT Evan & RENEE'S APARTMENT KITCHEN -lATER

Evan enters and drops the bags.

Evan

Renee? 

iNT Evan & REnee's apartment living room -cONTINUOUS

Evan

Renee, you home?

iNT Evan & RENEE'S APARTMENT KITCHEN

Evan stops and notices the answering machine is blinking.  He hits the play button.

rENEE (answering machine)

Hi Evan.  Sorry I won't be in tonight.  Instead of flying back to New York, I'm going to Florida to tie up some loose ends before Christmas.  We still have too many proposals floating around down there.  I'll call you later in the week.  Love you, bye.

Evan sighs.

iNT small bookstore -dAY

The store is small and cramped with more PEOPLE than books.

Evan enters and makes his way to the fiction section as Beth rounds the corner and almost collides into him.  She is carrying a couple of large shopping bags.

evaN

Oh!

bETH

You know this is why women get restraining orders right.

Evan

(playing along)

Am I within fifty yards?

They share a laugh.

evAN

So what are you doing here?

bETH

Endlessly searching.  You?

Evan

Still trying to find that book I left my inspiration in.

bETH

Dare I ask how the writing is then?

Evan

I've had better years.

Evan smiles.

Evan

Looking for anything in particular?

bETH

I'm looking for something for Mike.

Evan

Oh.  He doesn't really read- but, maybe a cookbook?

bETH

I thought of that, but I don't think they sell them here.

Evan

They're over by the front door, tucked away into the corner.

Evan points out the books as they make their way to them.

Evan

So Mike is going to be on TV.  That's amazing.

They both crouch down and look at several different cookbooks.

bETH

I know.  He's so thrilled.

Evan

It's great for him.

Beth grabs a cookbook.

bETH

Maybe he'd like a vegetarian cookbook?

evan

Don't know.  A cook book says a lot.  A friend of mine once bought a cook book entirely dedicated to pork.  I mean it was pork soups, pork appetizers, maybe even pork desserts.

Beth looks at him funny.

evan

Anyway, turns out the client he bought it for was Jewish.  Not exactly the kosher gift he was going for.

Someone raps on the window above them.  Beth and Evan stand to see Drew.  Drew waves and makes his way to the door.

evan

Speaking of the devil.

bETH

Who's that?

Evan

The cook book buyer.

Drew comes in carrying several large shopping bags.  He maneuvers around a few people and gives Evan a hug.

dREW

Evan, buddy.

Evan

Drew, how are you?

Drew looks down at his bags.

dREW

How am I?  I'm spending more money on Christmas than I did on my Mercedes.

Drew smiles at Beth.

dREW

Who's your friend?

Evan

Oh.  Drew, this is Beth.  Beth, this is Drew, my agent.

dREW

Friend, first.

Beth and Drew shake hands.

beth

The pork buyer.

Drew looks at her funny.

evan

I told her about your cook book incident.

drew

Ah, one I'll never live down, I'm sure.

They share a laugh.

bETH

So your the agent who wants him to write screenplays, right?

dREW

You see, beauty and wit.  She knows what's best for you.

Evan

Okay, I don't need you two teaming up on me.

dREW

Fair enough, we'll have to do it another time.   I have to spend about another million in the next few hours.  Beth it was great to finally meet you.  Evan I'll talk to you soon.

Evan

Okay, good luck with your shopping.

beth

Avoid pork based products.

Drew exits.

bETH

Finally meet me?

Evan

Oh yeah, I was...telling him about the Thanksgiving party.

Beth is surprised.

evAN

Speaking of which, are you ready for the Christmas party?

Beth's surprise turns into a sigh.

evAN

Or, not?

beTH

No, that just reminded me, I need to call my mother back.  She's been calling almost every other day since the first of December.  Begging me to fly out and see them for Christmas.  I keep telling her I'm staying in the city this year.  Apparently, that doesn't stop her, it only makes her stronger.

evAN

So, you are going to the party?

beTH

I don't know.  Mike is making our plans.

evAN

Right!

Beth lifts the two books in her hands.

bETH

So "Vegetarian Cookbook", or "How to Make a Meatatropolis?"

eXT city STREET upper east side -dAY

Evan heads north along this busy city street carrying a bottle of wine and a small pastry box.  He turns down a less populated street and enters an apartment building.

iNT mike's apartment building hallway -dAY

Evan climbs the final flight of stairs, turns down the hallway, stops outside a door and knocks. 

Mike answers the door and pops his head out the door.

MIKE

No Renee?

Evan

She's away on work.

mIKE

Again?

Mike lets Evan enter.

iNT mike's apartment living room -cONTINUOUS

Evan follows Mike into his sparsely decorated "minimalist" apartment. 

mIKE

The show is gonna be great.  They said I have a great TV persona.  They might even have me back in the spring.

Evan

That's great.  Oh I brought some wine, and-

iNT mike's apartment kitchen -cONTINUOUS

Evan follows Mike into the kitchen, where he spots Beth cutting vegetables.

Evan

(voice trailing)

Ca-nnolis.

bETH

Hi, Evan!

Evan

Hi.

Evan is fixated on Beth.

mIKE

You can put the cannolis over on the counter.

Evan places the pastry box on the counter.

mIKE

(to Evan)

You wanna give Beth a hand with the veggies?

Evan

Sure.

Beth slides down the counter and gives him a pile of zucchini to cut.

bETH

Here you go.

Evan slides in and begins to cut zucchini under the watchful eye of Mike.

mIKE

Evan, you're cutting the pieces wrong.  Beth show him how, ok?

bETH

Here, watch how I do it.

Beth slides closer to Evan.

bETH

See if you cut it in half, then in half again, you can de-seed the entire zucchini in one cut.

Evan doesn't see any of her explanation, he's fixated on her face.  Beth notices this, and smiles shyly.

mIKE

Shit, shit.

Evan jumps to reality.

bETH

What's wrong?

mIKE

I forgot the Peroni oil!

bETH

Where is it?  I'll go get it.

mIKE

No, I'll have to go.  It's a special oil. It's hard to find if you don't know what you're looking for.  I can't use the wrong thing, it'd ruin the meal.

Evan

We can all go!

mIKE

No, I need someone to watch the stove, and finish the veggies.

bETH

If you have to go, I can finish the veggies.  And I'm sure Evan could watch the stove.  Right?

Evan

Right.

mIKE

Okay.

 

Mike grabs his coat and exits.

mIKE (o.s.)

Back in twenty.

iNT mIKE'S APARTMENT LIVING ROOM -lATER

Evan and Beth sit on the couch watching "Roman Holiday."  They eat some of the cut vegetables.

bETH

I love romantic comedies.

Evan

I went to see this film last year at the Angelika.

bETH

Really?  So did I.  When did you go?

Evan

The Valentines block.

Beth slides closer to Evan.

bETH

Oh my God, I was there for that.  I go every year.

Evan

So do I.

Evan notices how close she is.

bETH

I love the films they show.

Evan

I know.  They really make you feel like there's a chance to it all.

bETH

To "what"?

Evan

Love, happiness.

bETH

You don't think there's a chance for love and happiness?

Evan

For some people there just isn't.

Beth turn to him curiously, and he returns the eye contact.

bETH

Why not?

Evan

Sometimes circumstances don't allow for it.

They look into each other's eyes.

bETH

Maybe, sometimes, they do.

They slowly lean in and kiss.  They kiss a passionate first kiss. 

The door opens in the background. Beth and Evan separate, but lock eyes.  They return to opposite ends of the couch.

mIKE

I'm back.  You wouldn't believe what I had to go through to find this...

Mike spots them sitting in the living room.

mIKE

Oh.  How's the food?

bETH

Great!  We kept the pots on low, and the veggies are in the fridge.

Beth jumps up and goes to the kitchen.  Mike and Evan follow.

iNT mIKE'S APARTMENT LIVING ROOM -lATER

Evan, Beth, and Mike sit on the couch.  The table in front of them is lined with bottles of wine, dirty dinner plates, wine glasses, and the pastry box.

bETH

That was wonderful.

Evan

Very good.

mIKE

Yeah, I know.

Mike pours the last of a wine bottle into his glass.

 

bETH

I'm going to start the dishes.

mIKE

Great.

Beth stacks the dishes and takes them to the kitchen.

mIKE

So how long was I gone?

We hear the water begin in the kitchen.

Evan

I, uh, maybe an hour.  Or more?

Mike nods, then grabs the second bottle of wine.

mIKE

More wine?

Mike opens the wine as Evan raises his glass.

mIKE

Evan, I've been meaning to talk to you.

Evan sits nervous.

mIKE

Actually, I wanted to apologize.

Evan

For what?

mIKE

For that length comment I made about you and Renee.

Evan

The what?

mIKE

You know at the restaurant, talking about the years...

Evan

Oh, forget about it.  It was nothing.

mIKE

Are you sure?

Evan

Positive.  I'm not worried about it.

Mike leans back, unsure.

mIKE

I just ask, because it seems like since then you've been- preoccupied.

Evan smiles.

Evan

Preoccupied?

mIKE

Well, we haven't hung out lately, I thought maybe that was why.

Evan laughs, but lightly.

Evan

No, just busy.

A beat as Mike thinks this over

mIKE

Is it Beth?

Evan freezes.

mIKE

(off Evan's face)

It is, isn't it?

Evan

What? Beth?

mIKE

You don't like her.

Evan

(questioning)

I don't- what?

mIKE

That's it.  You're always busy when we invite you out, never around when we're at the same party...

Evan

I swear it's not that.

mIKE

Then what's up?  I'm your best friend man, we can talk.

Evan takes a big gulp of his wine and thinks for a second.

Evan

I know.  It's nothing, just stuff at home. No big deal, nothing to worry about.

mIKE

You sure?

Evan

Definitely.

The water facet is heard turning off.  Beth enters with another bottle of wine.

bETH

More wine?

Evan hastily raises his glass.

Evan

Yes, please.

eXT MIKE'S APARTMENT BUILDING HALLWAY -LATER

Evan (O.c.)

I think the show's going to be great.

The door opens and Evan exits Mike's apartment, turning to say goodbye.  Instead, Mike scurries out the door and gently closes it behind him.  Evan looks on confused.

mIKE

I gotta tell you something.

Evan steps back to give him room.

Evan

Okay, I've actually got to tell you something too.

Mike scans the hallway, then shuts the door securely.

mIKE

I slept with Chloe!

Evan

Who?

mIKE

Chloe. "Cooking with Chloe," Chloe.

Evan

"Cooking with Chloe?"  When?

mIKE

This morning.

(beat)

And a couple hours ago.

Evan

A couple hours ago?  When you-

mIKE

I didn't plan it.  Well, not a couple hours ago.

Evan is taken aback.

mIKE

I was down at Emery's, over on Second looking for the Peroni's oil.  When all of a sudden there she is standing right next to me.

Evan's face says it all; eager, anger, shock.

mIKE

She said after the morning we had, it must be fate.  Then she took me to her townhouse and seduced me.

Evan

Chloe seduced you?

Mike wears a proud smile.

mIKE

Well, maybe not seduced.  But she definitely screwed my brains out.

Evan

I'd say.

mIKE

Yeah. 

(beat)

What?

Evan

What about Beth?

Mike's surprised.

mIKE

Beth?  I don't know.  I haven't even thought about it. Obviously I'm not going to tell her, if that's what you mean.

Evan

So what are you going to do?

mIKE

I don't know.  It just happened.

Evan

You can't keep screwing them both.  I'm pretty doubtful they'd appreciate that.

mIKE

(jokingly)

I figured Beth as my girlfriend, Chloe as my mistress.

Mike laughs and slaps Evan on the back.  Evan's face is blank.

mIKE

Doesn't matter.  It's not like I'm telling them anyway.

Evan is obviously frustrated.

Evan

How long are you going to keep-

Evan stops, and wipes his face.

Evan

I'm sorry, must be the wine.  Listen, I should be going.  Thanks for dinner, and congratulations on the show.

mIKE

Thanks!  I'll give you a call this week.

Evan

Yeah.

Evan nods and exits.

mIKE

Hey, what did you want to tell me?

Evan is already gone.

inT Evan & RENEE'S APARTMENT KITCHEN -lATER

Evan enters, grabs a bottled water from the fridge, and checks the answering machine.

answering machine

You have no new messages.

Evan grabs the phone and begins to dial.  He stops, replaces the receiver, and exits.

iNT Evan & RENEE'S APARTMENT OFFICE -cONTINUOUS

Evan is sitting at his computer typing away.  An amazed smile sits on his face as he watches words fill the page, and the writer's block slowly disappear.

iNT coffee shop -dAY

Beth and Shannon sit at a small table in this arty coffee shop.

sHANNON

Oh my God!

Shannon gasps, thinking.

sHANNON

Did you kiss him back?

bETH

Yes.  Well kind of.  Well, yes.

sHANNON

So he's into you?  Are you into him?

Beth blushes.

sHANNON

Oh my God!

bETH

Don't tell me.  I know.  I can't.

sHANNON

What do you mean, you "can't?"

bETH

Hello, Mike!

sHANNON

Beth, people break up all the time.  If Mike doesn't make you happy, and Evan does, then-

bETH

It's not that he doesn't make me happy.  It's just, I don't know, I don't feel it going anywhere.  But, what are you suggesting?  I dump Mike for his best friend?

Both women stop and think.

sHANNON

Good point.

bETH

I don't know.  I need to think.

Shannon's eyebrows raise.

sHANNON

And in the meantime?

iNT new school back office -eVENING

Evan is speaking with Lisa in this tiny room.

lISA

Go for it.

Evan

I can't, she's still with Mike.  Besides, I don't even know if she's interested.

lISA

Did she kiss back?

Evan smiles.

Evan

Very much.

lISA

Does Mike know anything?

Evan

Are you kidding?

lISA

Beth wouldn't tell?

Evan

I didn't think of that.  I don't think she'd tell him.  No.

lISA

So he has no idea.

Evan

He thinks I hate her, that's why I don't come around.

A TEACHER'S ASSISTANT enters.

TEacher's assistant

Evan, they're ready for you.

Evan

Be right there.

The teacher's assistant exits.

lISA

Are you going to tell anyone else?

Evan

No, I have to figure things out first.

Evan picks up his briefcase.

Evan

I have to go.

lISA

I'll call you later.

Lisa gives Evan a kiss, and exits out the back door.

iNT new school classroom -cONTINUOUS

Evan enters the classroom of about thirty PEOPLE.

Evan

Good evening, everyone.

eXT cITY STREET -dAY

Evan and Drew drink coffee as they walk against the grain of TOURISTS.  Christmas shopping is at its peak in New York.  

dREW

Come on, let's cut over.

Evan looks up from his coffee and follows Drew onto a cross street.

dREW

So we start post on this film next week.

Evan stares at his coffee.

Evan

Yeah.

Drew snaps his fingers in front of Evan's face.

dREW

Hello!

Evan

Sorry.

dREW

Yeah, anyway.

(beat)

So, done with the book yet?

Evan

Done?  No, but it is coming along.

A blank door flings open in front of them.  Mike and Beth exit.

mIKE

Evan?

Evan

(stunned)

Mike, hi!

(beat)

You know Drew, right?

dREW

How are you Mike, Beth.

mIKE

(to Drew)

Actually you're just the guy I wanted to talk to.

Mike throws his arm over Drew's shoulder and slowly moves him away from Evan and Beth.

mIKE

I just did an interview with "Let's Cook Magazine", and lately there's been a lot of interest in me.  I'm thinking I'm going to need some representation soon...

Evan and Beth stand awkwardly.

Evan

How are you?

bETH

(quickly)

Good, good, and you?

Evan

Good. 

They both look to Drew and Mike, then back to each other.

Evan

How's dance class?

bETH

Great.  One of my students is going to Broadway.

Evan

Wow!  That's wonderful.  You must be proud.

bETH

I'm very happy for him.

(beat)

How's your writing?

Evan

Honestly?

Beth smiles as Evan steps in closer, and speaks quietly.

Evan

Horrible.

bETH

Horrible?

Evan

I'm blocked.  I have nothing to say.

bETH

Nothing at all?

Evan

The last time I had anything to say was the night we...

They stand awkwardly, and look to see if Drew and Mike are still chatting.

Evan

Sorry!

bETH

It's okay.  So what did you write about?

Evan

A lot of things.  A lot of things about love- and happiness.

They both stare into each other's eyes, confused, yet sure.

mIKE

(to Evan and Beth)

You two feel like getting something to eat?

iNT Evan & RENEE'S APARTMENT KITCHEN -lATER

Evan enters carrying a small gift bag.  He stops and notices all the lights on.

Evan

Renee?

No answer as he walks to the living room.

Evan

Renee?

Renee comes from the bedroom.

Evan

Hi!

Renee continues past Evan into the kitchen, without looking at him.

Evan

When did you get back?

Renee searches the fridge.

reNEE

This morning.  I stayed at work late, got a head start on my paperwork.

Evan

This morning?  Did you try to call?

reNEE

Didn't have time.

Evan

Oh.  So, any more traveling before Christmas?

reNEE

I don't think so.

Evan

That's good.

Renee pulls a yogurt and a bottled water from the fridge.

Evan

I was thinking, maybe you and I could catch a play this weekend?

reNEE

I'm so behind with work.

Evan

Maybe a weekend up north?

Renee gives Evan a hesitant look.

Evan

We could drive north.  Vermont?

reNEE

What's up?

Evan

What do you mean?

reNEE

You're acting weird, what's wrong?

Evan

What's wrong?  Nothing.  I just wanted to do something together.

reNEE

Together!  We're doing something together right now.  Besides, my work is so behind, I really need my time right now.  Don't you have your book to work on?

Evan

(discouraged)

Yes, yes I do.

Renee exits back to the bedroom.

iNT Evan & RENEE'S APARTMENT OFFICE -lATER

Evan enters, turns on the light and flips on the computer.  He sits waiting for it to start up.  He opens the saved novel and scrolls to the bottom, where the cursor blinks.

Evan

(to the screen)

Oh, fuck off!

eXT Evan & Renee's Apartment building -moments LATER

Evan exits the building and heads west.  After a block he heads north.  A cab comes to a screeching halt in the street next to him.  A woman is barely visible in the back seat.

Lisa exits the cab.

lISA

You should be happy with that.  We didn't even get into Yorkville.

Lisa barely exits when the cab speeds off.

Evan

Lisa?  What the hell are you doing?

Lisa makes her way to the sidewalk, and she and Evan walk along.

lISA

I'm having a shit night.

Evan

It takes two.

lISA

What?

Evan

Me, too.

lISA

I saw your friend Mike tonight.  He hit on me.

Evan

What?  Where?

lISA

He was at that new restaurant down on Twenty-Third, C.B.T.  He was with that Chloe woman from that cooking show.

Evan

(nonchalantly)

Chloe.

Lisa stops, while Evan continues on.

lISA

Chloe?  Wait, you already know?

Evan

They've been fucking.

Lisa catches up to him.

lISA

I thought he was with Beth?

Evan

He is.

lISA

That's perfect.  You should tell her- here's your chance.

Evan

I can't.

lISA

Don't give me some kind of best friend bonding bullshit.  I'm not buying into it.

Evan

I'm not, I'm not.  But seriously think of how it would go.  I tell her, that my best friend; her boyfriend; is out on the town screwing this chef from TV.  On top of it sounding like a horrible joke, I think being with me will be the last thing on her mind. 

lISA

Then I'll tell her for you.

Evan

No.  She knows you're my friend.  It'll look like I'm trying to end her relationship so that I can move in.  I need her to want to be with me.  And not because you told her about Mike.

liSA

So you tell her.

evAN

(confident)

I will!

lISA

Oh you will?

evAN

Yes.

liSA

And when will this be?

evAN

Soon.

lISA

Oh, okay.  And, should I meet you at the jungle gym after recess too?

They turn the corner laughing.

iNT Evan & RENEE'S APARTMENT OFFICE -afternoon

Evan sits with his back to the computer, playing Nerf basketball.  The phone rings.

Evan

(on phone)

Hello!

eXT citY STREET -afternoon

Mike is talking on a pay phone in front of a small fruit stand.

mIKE

Listen I've got to cancel tomorrow's plans.  I'm heading out of town for a little while, so I'll call you when I get back.

iNT evAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT OFFICE -cONTINUOUS

Evan

Okay?  Are you going to be back for the Christmas party?

EXT CITY STREET -cONTINUOUS

Chloe walks up behind Mike and kisses him. 

chloe

Come on, we're going to be late.

Mike looks into her, pulls himself away from the phone and kisses her hard.

iNT evAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT OFFICE -cONTINUOUS

eVAN

Is that Beth?

eXT cITY STREET -cONTINUOUS

Mike returns to the phone, not having heard Evan's question about Beth.

mIKE

Yeah!

A photographer snaps a few photos of Chloe, then realizes the connection between her and Mike, and snaps photos of the two.

mIKE

Not sure.

Chloe hops in the limo that has pulled up behind them.

mIKE

I'll call you.

Mike follows Chloe into the limo.

iNT Evan & RENEE'S APARTMENT OFFICE -cONTINUOUS

Evan

Not sure?

Before he finishes the dial tone is heard.

Evan

Yeah.

Evan tosses the phone down.  He stands and walks to the wall calendar.  He grabs a pen and scribbles out December 22nd which says "Mike/Evan Patriots game."

iNT Evan & RENEE'S APARTMENT LIVING ROOM -mOMENTS LATER

Evan sits down next to Renee on the couch.  She has paperwork scattered all over the living room.

Evan

I can't believe it, Mike just canceled on the football game.  We've gone every year for almost ten years.

rENEE

What game?

Evan

The Patriots game.

rENEE

Oh!

Renee continues into her work.

Evan

If you were away on work all that time, why do you have so much work to catch up on?

Renee is startled at first, but then leans forward and assumes the defensive.

reNEE

What's that supposed to mean?

Evan

What do you mean, "what is that supposed to mean"?  I just asked about your work.

reNEE

You were implying.

Evan

I wasn't implying anything, I was just wondering why you're so overloaded with work.  Especially when you've been traveling so much for them.  But now, you're making me wonder what you think I'm implying?

reNEE

Nothing.  I just thought you were, never mind.  I just really need to get this stuff done.

Evan sits silent for a moment.

Evan

Who the hell are we?

Evan grabs his coat and exits.

reNEE

(yelling)

Can you pick up the dry-cleaning?

eXT Rockefeller center -evening

Evan walks above the ice rink.  TOURISTS and VENDORS are the only one's on the streets this close to Christmas.  He stops at the ice rink and watches.

A COUPLE skate together in a dance, so close, and so sensual. 

He looks at another older COUPLE slowly taking to the ice, hand-in-hand, smiling, laughing.

Another COUPLE off to the side, watches the SKATERS, so in the moment.  They kiss and laugh.

He turns around with his back to the rink and watches the TOURISTS.  Everyone is with their partner.  Everyone is happy, in love.

Evan smiles and runs to the side of the street.

Evan

Taxi!

eXT danser studio -EVENING

Evan exits the taxi and stops in front of the dance studio.  The lights are off inside.  He double checks the name of the studio on the piece of paper.  He looks in the window, well-knowing the studio is closed, but just in case.

inT dry-cleaners -night

A tired Evan picks up Renee's dry-cleaning.  The KOREAN DRY-CLEANER brings Evan a couple items.

dry-cleaner

I am sorry, we have not finished the dress from last week.

Evan

No problem. 

Evan pays the man, and begins to leave.

evAN

Wait.  Dress from when?

dRYCLEANER

Last Wednesday your wife, she drop it off, wine stain on arm.

Evan

Are you sure it was her, she was out of town last week?

The dry-cleaner goes back into the racks of clothing and returns with the dress.  He shows Evan the date. 

Evan

Okay, I guess it is.  When should I pick it up?

dryCLEANER

Two days.

Evan

See you then.

Evan exits.

iNT evan & Renee's apartment living room -nIGHT

Evan carries in Renee's dry-cleaning.

rENEE

Thanks!  You saved me a trip.

evan

Your dress wasn't ready yet.

Renee is startled.

reNEE

What dress?

evAN

The one you dropped off last week.

Evan continues calmly.

reNEE

Last week?  No, it must have been the week before.

Renee watches Evan closely, nervous.

evAN

Oh, okay.  Well, I'm going to go write.

Evan exits leaving Renee thinking.

eXT dANCE STUDIO -morNING

Evan exits a cab in front of the studio.  He enters.

iNT dANCE STUDIO -cONTINUOUS

The large open studio holds a class of twelve year old GIRLS in session.  The girls continue a little routine before the INSTRUCTOR notices him.

instructor

Hello, Monsieur.  May I help you?

Evan

Hi, I'm looking for Beth.  Is she in today?

iNSTRUCTOR

Bethany.  She is seek today.

Evan

She is seek?  Oh, sick?

The instructor nods her head reassuringly.

iNSTRUCTOR

Seek.

Evan

She's sick.  Do you know her address?

iNSTRUCTOR

Yes.

(beat)

But I cannot give out that kind of information.

Evan

Oh.  No, you see, I'm her cous..brother, and I'm supposed to see her today.

INSTRUCTOR

She did not tell you she was seek?

Evan

I just flew in- and I haven't spoken to her in a few days.

The instructor walks over to a desk.

iNSTRUCTOR

You don't look like her, you know.

Evan

Different mothers.

Evan smiles as the instructor hands him a piece of paper. Beth's address and apartment number are on the paper, but no last name.

Evan

What was her last name, again?

The instructor glares at him, suspicious.

eVAN

Right.

Evan smiles and exits.

eXT beth's apartment building -late morning

Evan stands in front of the building by the buzzers.  He scans the names, but no apartment numbers are listed.  He looks down at the piece of paper, but it only has an apartment number.  He goes back to the buzzers and stops on "Dawson."  He hits the buzzer.  A cranky OLD MAN answers.

old man

Yeah?

Evan

Oh, sorry...I mean delivery.

The buzzer sounds and the door opens.

iNT bETH'S APARTMENT BUILDING -cONTINUOUS

Evan finishes the climb of stairs, and stops to check the number on the paper.  He matches it with the door, and knocks. 

No one answers.  He knocks again.

Evan

Beth, are you home?  It's Evan.

Evan knocks again.  No answer.  He slouches down onto the floor outside the door, deciding to wait. 

iNT shannon's apartment living room -late morning

Beth is lying on the couch crying.  A box of tissues, a bottle of wine and a tabloid with Mike and Chloe on the cover entitled "New Love for the New Year" sit next to her on the table.  Shannon enters the room.

shANNON

I've got something that'll cheer us up.

Shannon opens her hand to reveal a joint.

sHANNON

I had forgotten it.  Joel left it here before he disappeared.

bETH

Joel?

Shannon sits on the floor in front of Beth.

sHANNON

My ex- from the summer.

bETH

Is it still good?

sHANNON

I think so.  Does it go bad?

bETH

I don't know.  The last time I did this was back in college.

Shannon grabs a lighter and lights the joint.

shaNNON

Here goes nothing.

Shannon inhales deeply, then lets out a rapid, horrible cough.  Beth pats her back and hands her a wine glass.

beTH

Here, drink this.

Shannon drinks the wine, and passes the joint to Beth.  Beth inhales and coughs.

iNT bETH'S APARTMENT BUILDING -afternoon

Evan still sits outside Beth's door.  A few hours have passed and he's becoming restless.  He stands and walks the hall a bit before noticing a menu on the floor by a neighbor's door.  He stops pacing and thinks for a moment.  He tiptoes to the neighbor's door and casually takes the menu.  He reaches inside his pocket, pulls out a pen, and begins to write something on the menu.

iNT sHANNON'S APARTMENT LIVING ROOM -afternoon

The joint sits on the table, two-thirds still remaining.  The two women are on the couch, drinking wine and eating Cheetos.

beTH

(giddy, yet sad)

And he had the nerve to call me from the plane.  He denied it, but I could hear the pilot talking in the background.

shaNNON

The nerve.

Both girls laugh.

bETH

He told me he didn't feel we were moving ahead anymore.  He needed time to get away.  I didn't even get to ask him about the photo.

Beth points to the tabloid.

shaNNON

You're so better off.  He was kind of a...dirtbag.

betH

No, he was more of...

Beth thinks about this for a moment.

beTH

An asshole.

Shannon laughs again, while Beth halfheartedly attempts a laugh.

sHANNON

Oh, I'm sorry.

Shannon hugs Beth.

shaNNON

It's the weed.  I'm all giddy.

beTH

I don't know why I'm sad.  What did he have that I can't find anywhere else?

Shannon listens, chewing down Cheetos.

bETH

What?  A big ego to balance out...well-

Beth brings up her hand and sticks out her pinky, causing  Shannon to laugh, spitting out Cheetos.

beTH

It was tiny.  And it curved to the left a little too much.  

Beth bends her pinky in a bit.

bETH

Not exactly in short supply in this city.

Both girls laugh hysterically.

iNT bETH'S APARTMENT BUILDING -saME TIME

Evan finishes his menu letter and slides it under the door.

int beTH'S APARTMENT -cONTINUOUS

We see the menu slide from under the door directly under the door stand.  It would now be hard to find unless specifically looked for.

iNT beTH'S APARTMENT BUILDING -cONTINUOUS

Satisfied, Evan returns his pen to his jacket, and heads down the stairs.

iNT shaNNON'S APARTMENT LIVING ROOM -late afTERNOON

Both women sit a little overdrawn into the television.  The room is a mess of wine bottles, glasses, tissues, chip bags, and an assortment of dirty dishes.  The door buzzer rings, but no one notices.  The door buzzer rings again.  Shannon shakes her head, gets up, and walks to her speaker.  She's only gone for a second before she quickly returns.

shanNON

Shit!  Drew's here.

Beth responds slowly.

beTH

Drew?

shANNON

My boyfriend, Drew.

Shannon begins a spastic clean up. 

shannON

Jesus!  Look at this place, it's a mess.

Beth views the disaster they have made. 

 beTH

He's going to think I'm your neurotic...

Beth eyes the pot, the wine, and the tissues.

beTH

...Potheaded, alcoholic friend, who just stopped in to throw a small bash.

shANNON

Don't worry I'll tell him you're trying to kick the weed by drinking the wine.

Beth stands to help clean.

betH

Funny!

Both continue cleaning, frantically.

sHANNON

How do I look?

They look at each other.  They are both covered in Cheetos crumbs.  Their laughs are interrupted by a knock on the door.

sHANNON

Shit, I've got to change.

(to door)

One minute!

Shannon runs to her bedroom, closely followed by Beth.

beTH

What about me?  None of your stuff fits.

Shannon looks around, walks into the bathroom and returns to hand Beth a lint brush.

sHANNON

Here.

Shannon returns to the bathroom as Beth stands staring at the lint brush.  A knock is heard at the door again, and Beth frantically rubs the lint brush all over herself, disposing of the crumbs.  Another knock at the door.

beTH

(to herself)

Shit!

(to Shannon)

Shannon, door.

A water faucet and a hair dryer can be heard running in the bathroom.

shANNON

I'm not ready yet.  Get it for me.

Beth sighs, turns, and heads to the door.  She remembers the lint brush in her hand and throws it into the bedroom. 

Beth answers the door to reveal Drew.  Both stand at the door, startled.

dreW

Hi!

beTH

You're Drew?

dreW

You're Beth.

beTH

But, you're Shannon's Drew, Drew.

dreW

Really is a small city, isn't it?

Shannon steps out of the bathroom and to the door.  She has changed into a very provocative little red dress.  She stops behind Beth.

shanNON

Beth, you could let him in.

Beth snaps out of her shock and steps aside.

beTH

Right, sorry.

shaNNON

Hey.

dreW

Hello, you.  Just thought I'd stop in on my way to...

(off Shannon's dress)

Wow!  You look fabulous.

shannON

Just something I wear around the house.

They share a kiss as Beth rolls her eyes.

shanNON

Have you met Beth, then?

dreW

Yes.  Actually, we've met before.

Drew walks toward the living room followed by Shannon.  Beth shuts the door.

iNT eVAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT kitchen -late afternoon

Evan stands at the counter, unsure and nervous.  He eyes the phone.

iNT evaN & RENEE'S APARTMENT OFFICE -cONTINUOUS

Evan walks in and sits at his computer.  As it begins to load up he turns around in his chair and sees his laptop.  He opts for the laptop and exits.

iNT evan & Renee's apartment building hallway -cONTINUOUS

Evan exits the apartment, laptop in hand.

iNT shaNNON'S APARTMENT LIVING ROOM -early evening

Drew is at the door preparing to leave.  Shannon stands by him, with Beth floating behind her.

dreW

(to Beth)

Things will get better, you'll see. I'm sure it will all work out for the best.

sHANNON

(to Drew)

She'll realize soon enough.

(to Beth)

Right?!

beTH

Sure.

dreW

Alright, I'm off then.  I told Evan I'd be there around seven.

Drew eyes his watch as Shannon kisses him.

shANNON

So where are you two going out to anyway?

dreW

Not sure, guy's night.  I was thinking...

beTH

Actually...

Drew and Shannon turn to a hesitant Beth.

beTH

(overdone)

Could you just tell Evan I, well...

Beth points to herself, then Shannon.

bETH (CONT'D)

We, said hello.

shANNON

Yes, tell him hello.

Drew gives Shannon a parting kiss, and is gone.  Shannon returns to the couch and flops down.  Beth follows her, but stops.

beTH

I think I'm going to head home.  I need some air.

iNT shannon's apartment building hallway -momENTS LATER

Beth has her jacket on and her bag draped over her shoulder.  Shannon stands with her at the door.

shANNON

Remember, call me for anything, okay.  We're going to Connecticut for Christmas, but we'll be back the night after.  You sure you won't come?

beTH

No, I'm fine.  Enjoy your Christmas.  You two have a wonderful time.

They hug and Beth begins to exit.

shANNON

And you, be happy.  Smile.

Beth turns and gives a fake smile.

shANNON

That's a start.

They hug.

shANNON

It can only get better.

beTH

I know.  Thanks.

eXT shannON'S APARTMENT BUILDING -momENTS LATER

Beth exits and is struck by the bitter air.  She wraps her jacket tight and flags a cab.  While doing this she notices all of the PEOPLE out walking, despite the cold.  A cab pulls up and she opens the door.  She stops, looks at the people again, and changes her mind.

beTH

Sorry.  Think I'm going to walk.

Beth steps back onto the sidewalk, tightens her scarf, and looks both ways up the sidewalk.  A FAMILY of four walk past to her left.  A mother, father, five year old boy, and an infant in a stroller.  Beth watches them as the five year old looks back, and smiles.  Beth smiles back, looks both ways again, and decides to go left as well.

eXT cENTRAL PARK WEST -lATER

Evan walks out of the Starbucks on Fifty-Ninth and Central Park West and crosses the street into the park.

eXT cENTRAL PARK WEST -momENTS LATER

Beth turns off Fifty-Ninth street and onto Central Park West.  She stops abruptly before entering the Starbucks and looks around as though she were being watched.  She smiles at no one in particular and enters the coffee shop.

eXT ceNTRAL PARK -coNTINUOUS

Evan walks across the park toward his favorite bench.  He sits on the bench and sips his coffee.  A brisk breeze causes him to tighten his jacket before opening his laptop.

eXT ceNTRAL PARK WEST -cONTINUOUS

Beth exits Starbucks and walks north, turning west on 60th street.

eXT broadway upper west side -lATER

Beth walks along this busy street.  She is oddly happy, and her fake smile is now sincere.  She stops at a crosswalk, and watches all the Christmas SHOPPERS.  She crosses the street with a big smile and tosses away her coffee into a nearby trash can.  Before she can look up from the trash, an older FEMALE TOURIST walks directly into her, sending both of their things scattering on to the ground.  Everyone avoids the mess and steps over the items.

female tourist

Oh my goodness!  I'm so sorry.

Both women crouch to the ground to pick up their items.  Beth is still smiling delightfully.

beTH

It's okay.

feMALE TOURIST

I'm such a klutz.

They continue picking up items, as PEOPLE step over them.

fEMALE TOURIST

I tell my husband all the time.  I can't go to the city, too many people, I'll end up...

As the woman speaks, Beth glances up, spotting a poster on the wall behind the woman.  The poster is an advertisement for the New School seminars.  Right there, staring back at her, is Evan's PR photo.

fEMALE TOURIST

I hope I didn't ruin your day.

The women finish picking up.  Beth is still absorbed by the photo.

beTH

No, you didn't.  Not at all.

Beth slides her bag back over her shoulder and smiles.

beTH

Thank you.

Beth continues her walk home, illuminated.

iNT evAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT LIVING ROOM -early evening

Renee answers the door to reveal Drew.

reNEE

Hello.

dreW

Hello, Renee.  I'm supposed to meet Evan.

reNEE

I haven't seen him since this morning.

dreW

(shocked)

Oh.  Well, can you tell him I stopped by?

reNEE

Okay.

Renee shuts the door.

drEW

Thank you.

iNT betH'S APARTMENT -niGHT

Beth enters with her smile still illuminating.  She puts her bag on the stand above the letter, and puts her jacket on top of the bag.  She walks to the fridge and pulls out a bottled water.  She drinks it as she notices her dying plants on the windowsill.

beTH

Do you guys need a little help?

Beth walks to the pot and pours some of her water in with the plant.  She steps back and smiles.

beTH

Better?

She scans her apartment, still messy from previous nights in.

beTH

(off Plant)

Looks like you're not the only thing here in need of help.

Beth begins cleaning.  She hears a phone ring, and gives a confused look.  She picks up her phone and puts it to her ear. The ringing continues, but from her bag.  She walks to the bag and reaches in to reveal a cell phone.

beTH

(cautiously)

H-hello?

beTH

(on phone)

Ma'am, hello.  Ma'am, listen.  I think I'm the woman you bumped into today.

Beth walks to her window and looks down on neighboring windows of Christmas lights.

beTH

(on phone)

No, I didn't try to steal your cell phone.  I think it was just misplaced in my bag.

Beth smiles at the lights and her plant.

bETH

(on phone)

Ma'am, Ma'am, listen- I can bring you your phone.  Where are you?  Okay, I'm just a few blocks up.  I'll walk it to your hotel if you meet me in the lobby.

(beat)

I'll see you in about fifteen minutes okay. 

Beth closes the phone and walks to the door.  She picks up her jacket, dropping the keys from the pocket.  She crouches down and picks up the keys, noticing the menu.

beTH

(frustrated)

Order from a place once.

Beth places the menu on the stand as she exits her apartment.

eXT cENTRAL PARK WEST -nIGHT

Beth walks south on this brisk night.  A sharp breeze whisks her, leaving her feeling insecure.  She looks around, feeling watched.

eXT ceNTRAL PARK -momENTS LATER

The same breeze hits Evan.  He stops typing to search his surroundings, feeling watched.

exT hotel -nIGHT

Beth exits the hotel waving to the female tourist.  She tightens her coat and scarf as the hotel door closes.

eXT cENTRAL PARK -nIGHT

Evan's closes his laptop.  He stands, scans the park once again, and heads back toward Central Park West.

eXT cENTRAL PARK WEST -nIGHT

Beth walks north, towards home, when another sharp breeze hits her.  This time she throws up her hand and a cab pulls over for her.

eXT ceNTRAL PARK wEST -sAME TIME

Across the street, Evan emerges from the park.  He flags a cab as Beth's cab hurries away.

iNT bETH'S APARTMENT -nIGHT

Beth arrives home flushed from the cold.  She lays her coat on the stand, then changes her mind and hangs it in the closet.  She returns to the stand and picks up the menu, not noticing the pen marks on it.

iNT bETH'S APARTMENT KITCHEN -cONTINUOUS

Beth walks to the counter with menu in hand.  She opens a drawer revealing several additional menus.  The phone rings, and she drops the menu into the drawer.

bETH

Hello!  Hi, mom.  Wait, hold on, hold on, I.  Yes mom, I'll come home.

(beat)

I'm sorry I didn't mean to yell.  Yes, okay.

Beth looks around, grabs a pen off the counter, opens the drawer and pulls out the menu.  She writes NEW WAVE AIRLINES FLIGHT #1638 NEW YORK TO COLUMBUS, OH.  Once she finishes writing, she notices Evan's writing peaking out from the inside.  She opens the menu and begins to read.

bETH

Mom, I'm going to have to call you back.

Beth hangs up and puts down the phone.  She opens the menu, glancing at the writing, before she folds it back to the beginning.  The phone rings again.  She reaches for the phone, turns off the ringer and returns to the letter.

as evan's voice over flows we intercut flashback scenes between evan and beth.

evAN (V.O.)

"Dear Beth, 

I'm writing this letter as I sit outside your apartment door.

iNT TOWNHOUSE KITCHEN -NIGHT flashback

As Evan sits on the floor of the kitchen he is alone groveling.  Beth enters, he looks up at her and smiles.

evAN (V.O.) (CONT'D)

I came here today to confess to you something I should have told you, a long time ago.  I know the timing is not right-

iNT sMALL BOOKSTORE -dAY flashback

Evan watches Beth intently as she searches for a book for Mike.

eVAN (V.O.) (CONT'D)

And the circumstances are anything but perfect, but I had to come here today, to tell you my true feelings.  Beth, you've given me the first real feelings I've had in a long time. 

iNT eVAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT OFFICE -nIGHT flashback

Evan enters, moves a stack of pages out of his way and begins to type.  A smile grows on his face as he continues on.

evAN (V.O.) (CONT'D)

You've rejuvenated a piece of my life that I'd forgotten, and you've inspired a piece of my life I thought I'd lost.  You are all I've had on my mind since our kiss. 

iNT mIKE'S APARTMENT LIVING ROOM -nIGHT flashback

Evan and Beth slowly move in for their first kiss.

evan

One kiss.  That was all I needed to know I was more in love with you than I'd even let myself believe.  That one kiss has changed my life in incredible ways.

iNT TOWNHOUSE MAIN ROOM -nIGHT flashback

As Beth and Mike exit the kitchen, Beth is watching Evan.  She stops and returns her attention to Mike just as Evan turns to look at her.

eVAN (V.O.) (CONT'D)

But, I know we are both involved with other people.  And I respect Mike; as a good friend, and as your boyfriend. 

iNT eVAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT kitchen -mORNING flashback

Evan makes two cups of coffee, one for him and one for Renee.  He waits for her to sit with him.  Instead she grabs her coffee and exits.

eVAN (V.O.) (CONT'D)

And even though my life has become more of a scheduled convenience, I too am still in a relationship.

iNT dINER -dAY flashback

Evan sits at a booth surrounded by work.  He looks up to see Beth standing in her coat holding two coffees.  She motions to sit.

eVAN (V.O.) (CONT'D)

I do apologize for being so forthcoming, but I needed you to know what I truly feel. 

eXT sTARBUCKS -nIGHT flashback

Evan and Beth separate from their hug, then Beth turns and walks away.  Evan stands still, fascinated by her, even as she walks away.

eVAN (v.O.) (cONT'D)

I needed you to know that I've fallen in love with you; someone whom I cannot fall in love with.  I've looked at our lives in every different way, and it's not practical, or realistic for either of us-

iNT bETH'S LIVING ROOM -cONTINUOUS

A tear falls onto the letter.

evAN  (V.O.)

(beat)

and that kills me.  Maybe, it was never meant to be. 

eXT eVAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT BUILDING -nIGHT

Evan steps from the cab, toward his building.

evAN (V.O.)

I don't want to believe it, but who says I can't.  I can only wish you happiness with your life, and thank you for what you've done for mine.

Love, Evan."

Evan stops in front of his building door.  He looks up at the sky and turns smiling.  The DOORMAN notices him.

doorman

Mr. Pelchet, Sir.  Are you alright?

iNT beTH'S APARTMENT -niGHT

Beth stands, staring into the letter with wet eyes.  She is as sad as she is happy.

iNT beTH'S APARTMENT -moRNING

Beth sits on her couch, letter in one hand, phone in the other.

eXT citY STREET -dAY

Luggage is lined up on the sidewalk next to a Mercedes SUV.  A phone rings, as Shannon steps out from behind the vehicle.

shANNON

(on phone)

Hello!  Beth, honey, what is it?  Calm down, I can't hear you.

Shannon covers her ear with her free hand, while Drew loads the luggage into the Mercedes.

shANNON

(on phone)

He did what?  A menu, with what?  No.  Are you serious?

Drew loads the last of the luggage into the vehicle.

shANNON

(on phone)

Well, what did it say?

(beat)

Okay, uh-huh.

Drew signals that he's running upstairs.

shANNON

Oh my God, Beth!

Shannon turns and stops Drew.

shANNON

(to Drew)

Evan loves Beth.  He wrote her a letter.

Drew smiles, then continues upstairs.

drEW

(To himself)

At least he's writing something.

shANNON

(on phone)

What about his girlfriend?  What do you mean he doesn't know?  What are you going to do?

inT beTH'S APARTMENT -same time

beTH

(on phone)

I don't know.

(beat)

Do I love him?  Ye...I don't know.

Beth puts down the letter and picks up her coffee.

beTH

What should I do Shannon?  I'm flying to my mother's this afternoon.

eXT cITY STREET -sAME TIME

Drew returns downstairs, jingles the keys in front of Shannon, and jumps into the driver's seat.  Shannon makes her way to the passenger seat.

shaNNON

(on phone)

I don't know.  Go see him, talk to him.

i/E Drew's mercedes -moments later

The vehicle drives north along the Henry Hudson Highway.

sHANNON

(on phone)

Well, that is where he lives.  So what if she's there, he loves you remember?  That's what I would do; stop by, talk, tell him how you feel.

Shannon's cell phone beeps.  She pulls it away from her ear to look at it.

shANNON

(on phone)

Beth, I'm going to lose you in a minute, my phones dying.  I'll call you from Connecticut when we get to Drew's parents.

iNT beth'S APARTMENT -dAY

beTH

(on phone)

No, Shannon don't bother.  I'm heading out soon anyway.  I'm sorry to throw my life drama on you right now.  Look, you and Drew have a wonderful Christmas.  We'll talk in a few days.

(beat)

I know. I love you too, bye.

i/E dREW'S MERCEDES -dAY

Shannon's phone beeps and dies.

shanNON

Bye.

Shannon looks out her window as Manhattan flies by.

sHANNON

So Evan loves Beth.

She turns to Drew.

sHANNON

Did you know?

Drew looks at her, bewildered.

drEW

What?

shANNON

Evan and Beth, did you know?

dreW

I don't know.

Drew smiles.

shANNON

I can't believe you!  How could you not tell me?

drew

Client-agent confidentiality.

They both smile.

exT betH'S APARTMENT BUILDING -lATER

Beth stands on the sidewalk with her bags stacked beside her.  She flags a cab.

i/E cab -momENTS LATER

Beth stares out the window as the cab cruises down Central Park West.  She watches the last minute SHOPPERS scurry from shop to shop.  The cab comes to a stop at a red light at Fifty-Ninth Street.  Beth's look goes from the shoppers to Starbucks.  She watches PEOPLE entering and exiting the Starbucks, before she leans forward to the CABBIE.

beTH

I need to make one stop on the way.

eXT evAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT BUILDING -lATER

The cab is stopped in front of the building next to Evan's apartment.  Beth sits inside, meter running.  The cab driver eyes her in the rearview mirror.

cabby

You getting out?

Beth looks at his eyes in the rearview, then to Evan's building.  She gets out.

beTH

I'll be right back.

Beth walks to the front door of the building, pauses, then walks in.

iNT evAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT BUILDING HALLWAY -momENTS LATER

Beth stands in front of the door to Evan & Renee's apartment.  She composes herself, straightens her clothes and prepares to knock.

Before she knocks, the door flies open to reveal a very dignified GENTLEMAN and Renee.  The man almost bumps into Beth as he adjusts his shirt.

genTLEMAN

Sorry. I didn't see you there.

betH

It's okay, I was-

The man walks away, while she is mid sentence.

reNEE

(snobbishly)

Who are you?

beTH

Is Evan here?

reNEE

No.  Are you a friend of his?

beTH

Yes.  I wanted to say hello before I...

reNEE

He's gone- has been most the day.  You should have called.

beTH

Could you just tell him Beth stopped by?

reNEE

He's quite busy.  I hope you don't expect him before Christmas.

beTH

No, that's fine.

reNEE

Fine.

Renee turns, and slams the door behind her.  Beth looks at the door in surprise and confusion.

eXT evaN & RENEE'S APARTMENT BUILDING -lATER

Beth returns to her cab.

beTH

To the airport.

iNT evAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT OFFICE -night

Evan sits at his desk, writing.  Pages and pages of notes surround him.  He stops typing for a moment, reads what he's written and laughs, happy.

iNT evan & Renee's Apartment bedroom -sAME TIME

Renee stands in front of a large mirror dressed in a very elegant black dress.  She samples earrings for the evening.

reNEE

(yelling)

Evan!

Renee continues sampling her jewelry.

reNEE

(yelling)

Evan!

Renee again continues her sampling for a moment, then realizes Evan has not responded.  She exits the bedroom, flustered.

iNT evAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT OFFICE -cONTINUOUS

Evan sits happily typing away.  A large stack of typed pages sit next to him.  Renee enters.

reNEE

I called you.

evAN

You did?  Sorry, I was caught up in this scene.

reNEE

You haven't changed, yet?!

Both look at Evan's attire.

evAN

No, I guess I haven't.

reNEE

We have to leave in fifteen minutes if we want to get there before it's no longer, fashionably late.

Evan simply smiles, as Renee sighs in a confusion of lost control.

reNEE

(softly)

Evan, honey- why don't you save what you're working on, come into the bedroom, and I'll help you get dressed.

Renee exits unsure.

iNT evAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT BEDROOM -cONTINUOUS

Renee returns to her spot in front of the mirror.  She begins to check her makeup, stops and looks behind her out the door to see if Evan will follow.  Her face shows a sign of despair.  Evan enters, and Renee quickly spins back around to her mirror.

evAN

Black tie, right?

Evan grabs a suit from his closet, and throws it on the bed.  Renee turns and Evan really takes her in.

evAN

Renee, you look beautiful.

She smiles.

reNEE

(off suit)

Here.  Let me help you with that.

i/E towncar -lATER

Evan and Renee ride in the back, each looking out their own window.  They pull up into a line of vehicles dropping off their OCCUPANTS in front of a very elegant townhouse. 

Renee watches as a limo very much resembling the one Evan thought he saw her in, pulls up to the entrance.  The dignified gentleman from before exits with an older woman, who's age is beginning to wear.

reNEE

Oh, Evan- I forgot to tell you, I made a list at home of people who've called you the past few days.  I told them you'd probably be busy until after the holiday.

evAN

Okay.

The towncar reaches the entrance and Evan and Renee exit.

iNT townhouse -christmas nIGHT

This party is very elegant, mixing money with celebrity, and most anything in between.  Evan makes his way to the bar alone.  He takes a seat, and almost immediately is bumped into from behind.  Evan turns to see a drunk Marcus.

marCUS

Ah, look who it is.  How's your holiday?

Evan scans the party.

evAN

Not too bad.  Yourself?

marcUS

You know, this and that.

Marcus orders another drink from the bar, falling into Evan.

evAN

Drinking a bit tonight?

marCUS

It's a social anxiety thing.

Evan gives him a confused look.

The bartender brings over Marcus's refill.

marCUS

I forgot to tell you.  My daughter was at one of your seminars a few weeks ago- she loved it.  You've inspired her to quit her job and write a book.

evAN

Sorry.  I just give them the insight, I don't tell them to quit their jobs.

Marcus arm-checks him in a joking manner, spilling a quarter of his drink on Evan in the process.

marcUS

Come on man, I was kidding you.

Evan gives a fake laugh.

marCUS

But I do have a gift for you.

evAN

No, no, that's okay.  No need for gifts.

marCUS

No, listen Evan, I've held this for too long- and you're too good a friend not to be told.

Evan looks at him quizzically as Marcus throws an arm over his shoulder.

evAN

Told?

marCUS

I hate to see you played a fool by her.

Evan laughs.

evAN

What are you talking about, Marcus?

maRCUS

I feel horrible because I was the one that got her the job in the first place.

Evan stops laughing, and leans in, intrigued.

evaN

Who are you talking about?  Renee? 

marCUS

I just didn't know that was how she'd use it.

Evan puts his hands on Marcus, partly to steady him, and partly to clear his head.

evaN

Spit it out, Marcus.

marCUS

Renee- she's been having an affair.

evAN

What? With who?

marCUS

It started in development.  She slept her way to the head of the department before she moved to advertising.  Then after she slept her way to the top there, she moved on to the big fish.  And now, for the last three months, she's been sleeping with the V.P.

Evan looks out at the crowd trying to spot Renee.  Finally he sees her in a far corner, smoking cigars with a group of five MEN.  He notices her glancing at the distinguished gentleman and he back at her.

marCUS

He's been taking her on trips to Florida, using the expense accounts on cruises.  I think he even has an apartment somewhere on the West Side they go to now.  You know, to get away from his wife.

Marcus, though drunk, can still see the pain in Evan's eyes.

marcUS

I'm sorry for not telling you months ago.

evaN

No, Marcus, don't be sorry.

Evan looks to Renee again, then drops a ten on the bar.

evAN

This one's on me. 

Evan stands and makes his way to Renee.

evAN

I need to talk to you.

Renee turns and regards Evan as a nuisance.

reNEE

I'm busy.

Evan thinks for a moment.

evAN

(firm)

Renee, I need to talk to you, now.

The five men talking to Renee slowly drift away as she turns to face Evan.

reNEE

What?

evAN

Don't "what" me like I'm one of your lackeys.  We're leaving.

Evan turns for the door, leaving Renee startled and caught off guard.  She turns back to the men she was speaking with, but they are gone.  She turns to the distinguished gentleman, but he is kissing his wife.  Finally, she turns back and runs after Evan.

i/E towncAR -lATER

Evan and Renee sit, almost exactly as they did coming to the party.  Both stare out their own windows.  Eventually Evan turns to her.

evAN

I know about you.

Renee turns and puts on her look of innocence.

reNEE

What do you mean?

evaN

Cut the shit, Renee.  I know about your sleeping around, traveling with the vice president, your apartment on the West Side.

Renee at first gives a defensive look, then she succumbs to her emotions and cries.

reNEE

I'm sorry Evan.  I didn't mean for it to happen, I didn't mean to hurt you.

evAN

Surprisingly, it doesn't hurt nearly as much as you think.

iNT evaN & RENEE'S APARTMENT kitchen  -Christmas nIGHT

The answering machine picks up to a recorded voice of Renee.

renee (on machine)

Hello, you have reached Renee and Evan. Leave a detailed message and we will respond accordingly, thank you.

The machine beeps before...

drew (on MACHINE)

Merry Christmas, Evan and Renee.  I was just calling to wish you both a happy holiday.  Also, Evan, I got that number for Danser studio, it's 555-3456.  Alright, talk soon.  Oh, this is Drew by the way.

iNT evAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT LIVINGROOM -nIGHT

Evan enters with a very worn Renee.  Renee, for the first time, looks lost.  They make their way to the couch. 

evAN

Listen...

reNEE

Evan I'm so sorry.

evAN

Come on, we knew it wasn't about love anymore.

reNEE

(snippy)

What wasn't?

evaN

What? 

Evan points to each of them, then to everything in the apartment.

evaN

This.  Us.  Everything we have.  It's not love, it's convenience.  Convenience for you.

Renee whimpers, halfheartedly.

evAN

It's over Renee.  We're over.

Evan exits to his office, leaving Renee alone on the couch.  She truly doesn't know what to feel.  She is obviously trying to fight back an emotional outburst.

iNT evAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT BEDROOM -niGHT

Evan lies in bed next to a sleeping Renee.  They are both as far apart as two people can be.  Evan looks to her, then stares blankly at the ceiling.

Evan eventually gets up from bed and quietly makes his way to the bureau.  He grabs a few items and moves to the bathroom.

iNT evaN & RENEE'S APARTMENT BEDROOM -momENTS LATER

Evan returns fully dressed.  He looks at Renee for a moment, then exits

iNT evAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT OFFICE -cONTINUOUS

Evan enters carrying a duffel bag.  He grabs some disks, some papers, and his laptop.

eXT eVAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT BUILDING -nIGHT

Evan exits the building with his duffle bag.  He slowly walks north, as a snow begins to fall.

eXT city STREET north -nIGHT

As Evan walks along the street Christmas parties can be heard roaring along the way.  The vibrant Christmas lights, and the beautiful snowfall bring a contradictory emotion to his walk.

iNT lisa's apartment building hallway -nIGHT

Evan knocks on the door a few times.  Eventually it opens to reveal Lisa.

evAN

I'll tell you all about it, tomorrow.

Evan enters past her.

INT lisa's apartment living room -early morning

Evan sleeps curled up on the couch.  The sunlight piercing through the shades awakens him.  He sits up, rubs his face, and heads to the bathroom.

iNT lisa'S APARTMENT LIVING ROOM -moments later

Evan exits the bathroom and heads for the couch.  He stops and thinks for a moment.  He turns around and heads toward the bedroom.

iNT lisa's aPARTMENT bedroom -cONTINUOUS

Lisa lies sleeping in her bed.  She is beautiful and elegant, even in her sleep.  Evan can be seen peaking in the door.

iNT evAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT BEDROOM -mORNING

Renee awakes and realizes Evan is not there.  She sits staring blankly at the empty spot beside her.

iNT lisa'S APARTMENT LIVING ROOM -morning

Evan awakes to a smiling Lisa, standing over him in a bathrobe.  She hands him a cup of coffee.

lisA

One cream, one sugar.

Evan sits up, returns the smile and takes the coffee.  Lisa sits with him on the couch.

lisa

So what's new in Evan's world?

Evan looks at the clock.

evAN

Don't you have to work?

lisa

Called in.  Family emergency.

They both smile.

evAN

Where to start?

iNT evaN & RENEE'S APARTMENT LIVINGROOM -dAY

Renee opens the door to reveal three MOVERS.  As she walks them through the apartment, she points out several stuffed brown moving boxes, and various pieces of furniture.  Atop one box sits the answering machine.

iNT drew'S OFFICE -dAY

Drew enters in casual dress, jogs to his desk and flips through a drawer.  He grabs two tickets, closes the drawer and jogs back out.

exT Drew's OFFICE -cONTINUOUS

Drew runs to his double-parked Mercedes. 

i/E dREW'S MERCEDES -cONTINUOUS

Once inside Drew hands Shannon the tickets.  She looks them over, then gives him a big hug.

iNT lisa'S APARTMENT LIVING ROOM -dAY

Lisa leans into Evan and gives him a big sympathetic hug.

lisA

Oh!

evAN

Yeah, that about covers it.

They hold for a long time, almost to the point of awkwardness.  They separate, slowly gazing into each other.  Evan leans in and looks as though he's going to kiss her, when at the last moment he settles for a quick hug. 

lisA

Evan, it'll get better.  I promise.

Evan stares off behind her.  They slowly pull away and meet eyes, confused, yet sure.

lISA

Trust me, okay.

Lisa kisses him gently on the cheek, then stands and gathers their empty cups.

lisA

I'm going to get my nails done in an hour.  So I- am off to the shower.

Evan smiles.

evAN

Family emergency?

lisA

I might as well help you looking my best.

Lisa exits to the bathroom.  Evan watches her go, smiles, and shakes his head.  He picks up his laptop, flips it open and begins to write. 

eXT laguardia airport -dAY

Shannon pulls up to the drop-off area in Drew's Mercedes.  She spots Beth and gives the horn a toot.  Beth gives it a look, but doesn't recognize the vehicle.

Shannon rolls down the window.

shANNON

(yelling)

Beth!

Beth turns and looks into the window, puzzled that Shannon is behind the wheel.

beTH

Should I even ask?

Beth gets into the vehicle.

i/E dREW'S MERCEDES -cONTINUOUS

shaNNON

Drew let me borrow it.

Beth checks out the interior.

beTH

I didn't realize you were already at this point in the relationship.  A guy's car is like, I don't know, like his heart. And he's already letting you borrow it.

Shannon beams a smile.

shaNNON

Any word from Evan?

beTH

I've been away.

shaNNON

(sarcastically)

Right.  I don't know you enough to know that you've been checking your messages at least three times a day.

betH

Four.  But no calls.  Well, nothing important.  Are you certain Drew gave him my number?

shanNON

He left the message from Connecticut on Christmas night.

i/E drew'S MERCEDES -dAY

beTH

What about Renee? 

shanNON

If he loves you, then he'll probably have to tell her eventually.

Beth looks out the window at the passing cars.

betH

What if she deleted the message?

Shannon reaches into the console and produces the two tickets from Drew.

shaNNON

Then plan B.

Shannon hands the tickets to Beth.

betH

What are these?

Beth reads the tickets.

They read "NEW SCHOOL DECEMBER 27TH -SEMINAR- WRITING & SELLING FICTION WITH EVAN PELCHET."

shaNNON

Drew got them.  He always has a few for interested publishers.

Beth's smile fades to concern.

beTH

What if he doesn't want to see me?

shannON

Oh.  You mean, one of those "he loves you, but doesn't want to see you" relationships.  Sure that sounds entirely perfect, right?

Beth manages a smile, but turns away hesitant.

eXT eVAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT BUILDING -dAY

As Evan approaches, the doorman gives him a look of unease.

dOORMAN

Afternoon, Mr. Pelchet.

evan

Afternoon Roger.

Evan nods, and continues his walk inside.

iNT evan & Renee's apartment -momenTS LATER

Evan enters the vacant apartment and for a moment is frozen.  He looks at all the emptiness as he approaches the kitchen counter.  He picks up a stack of paper and reads...

renee (V.O.)

"Dear Evan,

I truly am sorry for how things ended.  But I've realized what you said was true. Our lives were only together for the convenience of it, and I guess this is time to really start over- for both of us.  I wish you the best Evan, and I apologize for letting our lives get to this point.  If you need me, I will be staying on the West Side.  I can be reached at 212-555-5925.  Renee."

Evan finishes the note and flips to the next page.  A list very similar to a call sheet, contains the list of people Evan missed before Christmas.  He scans the top few names and puts it down.

iNT evAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT OFFICE -dAY

Evan enters the office, which has been untouched since he left.  He grabs a stack of papers and a few things from his bulletin board, then exits.

iNT eVAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT kitchen -cONTINUOUS

Evan throws the items into his duffle bag.  He checks to make sure he has his checkbook, throws the bag over his shoulder, and exits.

eXT evaN & RENEE'S APARTMENT BUILDING -dAY

Evan stops by the doorman.

evaN

Well Roger, I'm off.

Evan hands his key to the doorman.

evAN

Sorry we never really got to chat before today.

dooRMAN

It's okay Mr. Pelchet.  You'd be surprised how few people in this building even know I exist.

evAN

I kind of know how you feel.

(beat)

Could you hold the keys?  I'll have a broker down here in a few days.

dooRMAN

Certainly, Sir.  Have a good day.

evAN

You too Roger, you too.

Evan turns and waves as he walks to the corner.  He stops to grab a free paper advertising "apartments for rent", and continues on. 

iNT nEW SCHOOL CLASSROOM -nIGHT

Beth and Shannon sit in a room half full of seminar ATTENDEES.  Shannon looks at her watch, then up at the clock. 

shaNNON

Twenty minutes late.  Is he trying to be fashionable?

Finally, the teacher's assistant enters the class.

Teacher's assistant

I would like to thank you all for coming.

(beat)

But, unfortunately, tonight's seminar will have to be rescheduled.

Heavy sighs fill the room.

teacher's assistant

Mr. Pelchet has fallen ill, but has promised to return as soon as he can.

betH

(to Shannon)

I told you he didn't want to see me.

eXT new school -nIGHT

Shannon stands on the corner trying to hear her cell phone.

shaNNON

(On phone)

So, where is he?

iNT dreW'S OFFICE -nIGHT

Drew is surrounded by paperwork.  His tie is loosened and his shirt untucked.

dreW

(on phone)

I'm not sure.  I told the woman he was horribly sick to cover for him.

eXT neW SCHOOL -nIGHT

shaNNON

(on phone)

Alright.  Don't stay too late.  Are you still coming over?  Alright, I'll see you then.  Call if you hear from Evan.  Love you, bye.

Shannon hangs up and walks on with her arm around Beth.

shaNNON

Let's get some coffee.

iNT coffee shop -nIGHT

Evan sits in the booth beside his duffle bag.  He sips his coffee and scans a newspaper, occasionally stopping to circle an ad for an apartment.

i/E cab -day

Evan sits in the back of the cab typing on his laptop.  The classifieds lie on the seat next to him.

iNT evan & RENEE'S APARTMENT -dAY

A REALTOR shows a COUPLE the apartment.  As they turn the corner...

iNT shabby apartment -dAY

An old, unkempt MAN shows Evan this tiny, cramped, and grungy apartment.  Evan sees the shoddy desk in the corner and smiles.  He puts down his duffel bag and pulls out his checkbook.

iNT shabbY APARTMENT -dAY

The bright sun shines through the windows.  The apartment is still shabby, but now has a lived-in look to it.  A small twin bed rests in one corner.  In the other corner Evan sits at the shoddy desk typing away.  Stacks of papers, index cards, and notes have engulfed the desk.

iNT shabBY APARTMENT -nIGHT

A loud New Years celebration can be heard through the paper-thin walls from surrounding apartments, as well as the street below.  Evan sits engrossed in his writing.

partygoers (O.S.)

Nine, eight, seven, six...

Evan stretches back and grabs a wine bottle from beside the desk.  He uncorks the bottle and takes a swig.

partYGOERS

two, one.  Happy New Year!

evaN

(to himself)

Happy New Year.

Evan takes another swig and smiles blissfully before returning to the laptop.  Behind him, through the windows, flashes of light explode from fireworks off in the distance.

iNT evaN & RENEE'S APARTMENT BUILDING HALLWAY -dAY

Beth knocks on the door.  After receiving no answer numerous times, she heads back to the elevator.

eXT evAN & RENEE'S APARTMENT BUILDING -dAY

The doorman opens the door for Beth.  She stops to speak with him.

betH

Do you know the man in 5B?

dooRMAN

Yes Ma'am.  Well, Mr. Pelchet used to live there, but they moved out right after Christmas.

betH

They moved out?  Do you know where?

 

doorMAN

No Ma'am, I haven't a clue.

Beth sighs lightly.

bETH

Thanks.

Beth turns and continues away from the building.  As she makes her way around the corner she abruptly bumps into someone.

bETH

Sor-

Beth meets eyes with the "bumper" Mike.

mike

Oh!

Mike looks confused as he looks from Beth back to Evan's apartment building.

mike

Are you coming from Evan's?

bETH

What?  No...I was-  He doesn't live there anymore.

Mike laughs.

mikE

What are you talking about?

bETH

(nervous)

I just went to see him, but the doorman said he moved out.

An awkward silence creeps in.

mIKE

Listen, I'm sorry for...

beth

(sternly)

For the best.

Mike again looks beyond Beth and at Evan's building.

miKE

(half-joking)

Is something going on with you and Evan?

Beth pretends to be offended.

beth

I guess I should have asked you that about Chloe.

mike

Fair enough!

bETH

I have to get back...

mike

Can I but you a coffee?

Beth tries to READ Mike.

beth

What for?

mike

To drink.

Beth looks at the oncoming cabs and flags one down.

mike

So I can apologize.  We should talk.

Beth looks back to Mike, and drops her hand.

iNT small restaurant -dAY

Evan sits at a small table, sipping his coffee, writing on his laptop.  Lisa enters and sits across from him.  They exchange smiles.

lisA

Where have you been?  Your phone's been disconnected, your doorman tells me you moved out...

evaN

It is, and I did.

lisa

Where?  And when were you going to tell me?

evAN

About the phone, or...

(off Lisa's look)

No one knows.  I just left.

lisa

Why?

evAN

After everything that happened to me over the last few months, I needed to get away, and start new.  To wash away all the shit that has built up, and come back as me.  Just me.

lisa

Where are you living?  God, don't tell me you're homeless.

evaN

No.  I found a place in the East Village.  It's small, but it suits my needs.

lisa

Oh my God!  The East Village- are you crazy?  People get killed down there for walking wrong.

evAN

This isn't 1975, it's not that bad.  It inspires me.  I've done the best work of my life the past few weeks I've lived there, and it's where I need to be until I finish.

lisa

The book?

evaN

Everything.

They both sit back and look at each other.  A silent agreement.

liSA

Well, you should have told me.  I was worried sick.

Evan gives a radiant smile and moves to her side of the table.

lisa

So what about the girl?

iNT drew'S OFFICE -dAY

Drew's assistant enters with a package in hand.

aSSISTANT

Mr. Heifetz, there's a courier out here who wants to deliver this package without a return address.

Drew takes the package from the assistant's hands.  He looks at her, then opens it.  He pulls out a stack of papers and quickly flips through a couple pages.  He looks up to the assistant with a smile.

dREW

Send the courier in here please.

The assistant exits, as the COURIER enters.

dreW

Where did you pick this up?

courier

Some guy made me meet him on the street. He gave me an extra twenty to deliver it without his address.

drew

Yes, of course he did.  What street?

courier

St. Marks, around First Ave.

Drew thinks to himself for a moment.

drew

Alright, where do I sign?

exT st. marks place -dAY

Evan walks along the street with a plastic bag in hand.  Ink cartridges, and a ream of paper are easily viewable through bag.  He walks along joyously, until he suddenly catches something in the corner of his eye.  He stops and backtracks in front of a television store. 

On the television is a rerun of the christmas special "Cooking with chloe," featuring guest chef mike kalvin.

Evan watches and beams a delighted smile.

exT small theatre -nIGHT

A small group of PEOPLE exit.  Among the group are Beth and Shannon.

sHANNON

Your student was wonderful.

Beth smiles, and nods unenthusiastically.  They both continue walking up the street.

shaNnon

I can't believe he hasn't called you.

beTH

He doesn't have my number.

shannON

Well, he should have contacted you somehow.  He knows where you work, he knows where you live.

betH

I don't even know if he still lives in the city, or if he's still living with Renee.

Beth grieves to herself.

shanNON

Beth, I'm sure there's a good, no- a great reason he hasn't been in touch.  I mean come on, Drew's a great friend, and he doesn't even know where he is.  I'm sure you'll see him soon, I know it.

iNT sHABBY APARTMENT -dAY

On the phone, Evan holds the receiver to his ear, waiting.

drew (o.s.)

Hello!

evaN

Meet me for lunch at the diner.

iNT dINER -dAY

Drew enters and finds Evan typing on his laptop in the corner booth.

dREW

And just where the hell have you been?

Evan stops writing and shuts his laptop. 

eVAN

Around.

drew

Around?  Christ, I feel like your mother searching for you before dinner.

evaN

Did you get the pages?

drew

Yes, and...

evaN

Did you...

drew

And, they've generated interest.

evaN

What do you mean? 

drew

Let's say a couple of publishers want more.

evaN

You sent out an unfinished manuscript?

drew

Well, not so much sent out.  More like, "forwarded along."

Evan gives him a puzzled look.

dREW

(off Evan's look)

Forwarded along during a game of golf, a lunch thing, a cocktail party.  You know, I am more than just your buddy.

Evan thinks this over to himself.

evaN

So, they liked it!

drew

Well, not to spoil the finished product, but perhaps something of a small bidding war has begun.  And by small I'm not referring to funds.

Evan smiles.

evaN

It's almost complete.

drew

Alright.

They both sit silent for a moment as Jessie brings over their coffees.

drew

So, how have you been?

evan

New.  I'm a new man.  Renee and I split on Christmas.  We both moved out the following day.  I went to see Beth before Christmas, but she went on a vacation with Mike, so-

drew

Wait.  Beth, on a vacation with Mike?  They broke up a week before Christmas.  She went to your house on Christmas-Eve, but Renee sent her off.

evaN

She's not with Mike?  But he called me and..

drew

No, he went away with Chloe.  He just got back the day before yesterday.  And Beth- she's been trying to find you, just as much as I have.

Evan is in a semi-state of bliss and confusion.

dreW

You should contact her, at least tell her you're okay.

evaN

I will.  I need to finish this first.

dREW

The book?

Evan points to himself.

evaN

Me.  I need to finish this part of my life before I can begin a new one.  I need to do this for myself.

drew

I understand.

eXT citY STREET -nIGHT

Evan walks home from his meeting with Drew.  He stops and enters a video store.

eXT cITY STREET -few minutes later

Evan exits with a brand-new copy of "Roman Holiday" on DVD.

iNT shABBY APARTMENT -nIGHT

Evan is writing on his laptop.  He stops and wipes his eyes.  He opens them to see the "Roman Holiday" DVD.  He walks over to his duffel bag and reaches around, pulling out the call list Renee made for him.  He scans the list, stopping about three-quarters of the way down on the name "Beth."  He reaches over for the DVD, and unwraps the plastic.

iNT beTH'S APARTMENT -dAY

Beth arrives home, still wearing her dance leotard.  She drops her bag and coat next to the stand, and rummages through her mail.  She throws the pile of bills on the stand, then notices the brown package on the floor.  The name "Beth" is written on the package.

She opens the package to reveal the "Roman Holiday" DVD.  She smiles and flips it around.  Finally, she opens it to find written on the DVD

"meet me for the valentine's block?"

Beth smiles a true, bright smile.

iNT drew'S OFFICE -dAY

Evan enters the office with his manuscript in hand.

evaN

It's finished.

Drew looks at the papers.

drew

That's it?

Evan puts the pages down on the desk.  The title pages reads;

untitled: By Evan Pelchet.

Drew thumbs through the pages and smiles at Evan.

dREW

So, now what?

evan

You find a publisher.

drew

I didn't mean for the book.  The book's already sold.

evaN

Without it being finished?

drew

They trusted your previous work.

evaN

But my other work was shit.

drew

Didn't matter.  The pages you've sent over showed them you had something.  Also, an adaptation. 

evaN

Adaptation?

drew

You've been offered a deal to sell the film rights, and to write the script.

evaN

I can't write a script.

drew

You'll learn.

They both sit silent; Evan considering this option, and Drew awaiting an answer.

EVAN

(confidently)

I'll think about it.

drew

Alright.  So like I said, "now what"?

evaN

I've got a date.

Evan gets up and opens the door to leave.  In doing so, he sees Mike speaking with Drew's assistant in the background.  They meet eyes.

iNT cOFFEE SHOP -dAY

Evan and Mike sit in a booth each holding their coffee mugs.

eVAN

Nice tan!

Mike smiles.

mike

That's what a few weeks in the Caribbean will do to you.

An uncomfortable pause.

mike

I'm sorry about the game.

Evan looks confused, then realizes.

evaN

Oh, no problem.

(beat)

So how's Chloe?

mike

She chucked me.

evaN

She chucked you?  You went to the Caribbean.

mike

On the flight back she told me it wasn't good for her career.

evaN

Sorry.

They sip their coffees.

mike

So I talked to Beth.

Evan almost spits out his coffee, but instead conceals it and burns the inside of his nose.

evaN

Mike, I-

mike

It's my fault.  I shouldn't have left.

They both sit silent, looking at each other.

mike

She really likes you, you know.  I mean really likes you.

Evan smiles, but then assesses the situation, and stops.

mike

You know, I knew you liked her too.

Evan is confused.

mike

That day outside my apartment, when I told you about Chloe.  Remember how angry you were with me.  I thought you'd be thrilled, but you weren't at all.

evan

I remember.  And, for what it's worth, I'm sorry.

Mike semi-laughs.

mike

Your a better man Evan, I've always told you that.  Your the type of guy she deserves.

evan

Thanks.  That means a lot, really.

Evan checks his watch.

evaN

I have to go.

mike

I know.  Have a great Valentine's Day.

Evan stands, smiles to Mike, and heads for the door.

mike

Oh, Evan.

Evan stops and turns, unsure.

mike

Hoops tomorrow?

Evan smiles, nods, and exits the shop.

exT angelika theatre -dAY

Beth stands, waiting outside the theatre.  She's trying to act normal, but is constantly searching her surroundings.  Street VENDORS sell roses to several passing COUPLES.

A cab pulls up out of Beth's view and Evan steps from it.  He pays the CABBIE, picks up a rose, and walks up behind her. 

evaN

Waiting for anyone?

Beth's face fills with joy.  She turns around to face Evan.  He hands her the rose.  They look into each other's eyes and kiss- long, and passionately.  Eventually, they separate and look into each other's eyes.  They smile, lock hands, and walk to the entrance. 

beth

So what are your plans?

evaN

I'm going to write a screenplay.

a close up on drew's desk reveals a screenplay entitled "A Story of Beth."  underneath the title reads, "Written by Evan Pelchet."

fADE OUT.

THE END.