Haven Episode 1.12 12. Hand That Rocks the Cradle

[Alex]

This is the twelfth episode of "Haven", an original series written by me. I hope you enjoy reading it! If you have any feedback, positive or critical, please post it here, thank you

Haven Episode 1.12 12. Hand That Rocks the Cradle

Written and Produced by Alex Hart
Edited by Lex

Special thanks to Heather

Disclaimer: The series “Haven”, its characters, locations and ideas are all creations belonging to Alex Hart. The work is fictional and meant for entertainment purposes only. No unauthorised usage of anything in “Haven” is permitted without prior permission, thank you.

TEASER

OPEN ON:

INT. CHILD’S BEDROOM - DAY

“Baby’s Romance” by Chris Garneau plays. As the piano introduction plays we see a mobile hanging above a crib, gently swinging round. The camera slowly moves across the room to show a mural of stars on the wall, toys in heap near the door.

CUT TO:

INT. CHILD’S BEDROOM FLOOR

A child’s hand moves a toy train across the floor. The camera focuses on the car as it changes direction every few seconds.

CUT TO:

INT. CHILD’S BEDROOM FLOOR

A broken toy is seen on the floor, its cracked face still smiling.

The first verse of the song begins. A child’s hand clasps the doll and picks it up. We see the rest of the child’s body; a little boy of about five, but his face is not seen. An adult’s hand suddenly grasps the child’s free hand tightly, pulling him harshly away.

‘The baby’s sleeping in the crib up top
And baby’s sleeping above you’

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM

An adult’s hands are seen unwrapping a toy car, and then throwing it in a child’s lap, their faces still not seen. The child recoils slightly as the car hits him in the stomach. He then picks up the car and begins to play with it.

‘You will lift him to the parking lot
Your car is waiting there for you
Your car is waiting there for you’

CUT TO:

INT. BATHROOM

The same child is sat in a bath. An adult is scrubbing the child’s back harshly, not caring that they are almost breaking the child’s skin.

‘I would like to see a little more propriety,
Cooperate with me and answer me
Without a plea.’

CUT TO:

INT. CHILD’S BEDROOM

The child watches from his crib as the adult walks away, stepping on the toy car and crushing it as she walks. The light is turned off as the child still watches. We do not see his face.

‘I know now, I know now, I know now,
I’m gonna tell on you.
I know now, I know now, I know now,
I’m never gonna tell on you.’

FADE TO: GREY

FADE TO:

EXT. SUMMERTIME GENERAL – MORNING

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN, THIRD LOWER CORRIDOR

Juliet walks down the corridor, observing its newly finished state. She walks past Room 19, 18, 17...she smiles slightly.

Juliet: Think this means we get up to two stars.

Liliana OS: Or three.

Juliet turns around. Liliana is stood near the end of the corridor.

Liliana: You shouldn’t be so hard on yourself.

Juliet sighs.

Juliet: Must be your influence or something.

Liliana makes a veiled smile and then walks up to Juliet.

Liliana: If you’re happy with the conditions you can start moving guests in as soon as they arrive.

Juliet: Uh huh. Your guys did a good job.

Liliana: Of course. Most of them helped to build the rest of the hotel.

Juliet looks curious.

Liliana: Before your time, of course.

Juliet nods as Liliana walks away. She begins to follow.

CUT TO:

INT. STAIRWELL

Juliet follows Liliana.

Juliet: Anymore issues you and The Board are discussing? Or can we relax for a little while?

Liliana hesitates.

Liliana: Obviously Amethyst are forever looming in our peripheral vision. Though the lie detector is working well, and the hotel seems to be out of danger for the time being.

Juliet nods.

Juliet: Looks like it.

Liliana hesitates again as they continue to ascend the stairs.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Liliana and Juliet appear from the top of the stairs.

Liliana: Then yes. Feel free to...relax.

They stop as they witness what is in front of them. A woman turns to look at them; she is in her mid 30s carrying a little girl of about three. The same little boy from the last scene is stood by the reception and a girl of about eight is stood nearby also. Tegan looks at Juliet from behind the counter and raises her eyebrows. The new arrival smiles a little awkwardly at Juliet who smiles also but looks taken-a-back by the family that has just arrived.

CUT TO: BLACK

OPENING CREDITS ROLL

THEMESONG: “Not Gonna Get Us” - Tatu

The eerie start of the song plays as we see grey smoke. “Haven” in black, torn letters fades in. It disappears as the drums start. The smoke is gone also. There are a series of quick shots: a gun being fired. A high-heeled foot stepping next to a pole. A syringe injecting someone’s arm. A knife being raised. A key turning in a lock. Coins scattering on a table. A close up of a woman’s lips as she applies lipstick. A shovel being forced into the ground. A close up of someone handcuffing another person’s wrists. A hand flicking a cigarette lighter on. A pair of pliers approaching someone’s finger. A dagger covered in blood hitting the ground. A hand grabbing on to someone’s arm. A close up of an eye opening wide.

As the song suddenly becomes more energetic, there is a montage of criminal records, each face only seen for a fraction of a second.

The camera zooms towards Juliet looking shocked.

MELISSA GEORGE

The credit flickers on to the screen. There is a shot of Juliet walking with a neutral expression on her face. There is a shot of Juliet pointing a gun looking resolute. There is a shot of Juliet turning her face, looking serious. The credit flickers away.

There is a shot of Juliet, Grace and Tegan running. There is a shot of the illuminated “Summertime General” sign.

There is a shot of Devyn reaching out for something.

JUSTIN THEROUX

The credit flickers on to the screen. There is a shot of Devyn punching someone. There is a shot of him leaning against a wall. There is a shot of him smiling, a little smugly. The credit flickers away.

There is a shot of a little girl with a knife in her hand. There is a shot of a gun being fired into the air.

There is a shot of Tegan typing on a computer.

LEISHA HAILEY

The credit flickers on to the screen. There is a shot of Tegan turning, the flash of sirens causing her to shield her eyes. There is a shot of Tegan putting her hand over mouth. There is a shot of Tegan cocking her head slightly, smiling. The credit flickers away.

A shot of a woman walking down a corridor of Haven, purposefully. A shot of a man and a woman kissing.

There is a shot of Gael holding out a large knife.

CHARLIE HUNNAM

The credit flickers on to the screen. There is a shot of Gael hugging someone. There is a shot of a tear streaming down Gael’s face. There is a shot of Gael laughing. The credit flickers away.

A shot of the main entrance opening. A shot of Mark and Aura turning looking surprised in Summertime General.

There is a shot of Grace carrying a plate of food.

SANDRA OH

The credit flickers on to the screen. There is a shot of Grace putting her head in her hands. A shot of her putting her finger over her lips. A shot of her smiling a little. The credit flickers away.

There is a shot of an explosion. A shot of Grace crying in Gael’s arms.

There is a shot of Aura sat at one of the tables in Haven’s kitchen.

DANA DAVIS

The credit flickers on to the screen. There is a shot of Aura turning looking shocked. A shot of her at the till in Summertime General. A shot of her smiling kindly. The credit flickers away.

There is a shot of a hand being placed on the identification pad. A shot of Bethany kissing someone.

There is a shot of Mark walking down the first lower corridor.

RYAN CARNES

The credits flicker on to the screen. There is a shot of Mark looking troubled. A shot of Mark diving out of the way of something. A shot of Mark stroking someone’s hair.

There is a shot of Royce punching someone. A shot of a man moving over a man’s bare stomach.

There is a shot of Jackie sitting in a chair, her index finger on her temple. She looks thoughtful.

STEPHANIE ROMANOV

The credit flickers on to the screen. There is a shot of Jackie turning, looking out of breath. A shot of her walking looking formidable. A shot of her examining a gun. The credit flickers away.

There is a shot of a corridor in Haven. The camera zooms through to the lobby, spinning around, backing through the front entrance. The doors close.

CUT TO: BLACK

Guest Starring:

JULIE BENZ – Erica McArthur
CHARISMA CARPENTER – Callista Pearson
JENNIFER CARPENTER – Gina Mayes
JOANNA CASSIDY – Deirdra Kyre
JOSH DUHAMEL – Dominic Healy
DAVID HEWLETT – Leo Falcon
FAMKE JANSSEN - Liliana Redgrave
PETER KRAUSE – Warren Jeffers
MARLENE LAWSTON – Amy McArthur
JULIAN McMAHON – Mitch Pearson
JASON MOMOA – Josef Porter
JOELY RICHARDSON – Marissa Jeffers
AMANDA SEYFRIED – Bethany Thyme

[Alex]

ACT I

CUT TO:

EXT. SUBURBAN STREET – MORNING

CUT TO:

INT. FRONT HALL, SUBURBAN HOUSE

Gina: You’ll take them all the way to the gate?

She looks a little concerned. Her husband nods, smiling understandably.

Gina’s husband: Don’t worry.

Gina smiles thankfully.

Gina’s husband: Come on guys we got serious donut eating to get done before school.

The children look excited.

Boy: Yay!

Girl: Can I have jelly with sprinkles?

Gina’s husband: You sure can.

He smiles at Gina and gives her a quick kiss. A ringing phone can be heard; Gina takes it out of her pocket.

Gina’s husband: Don’t work too hard.

Gina smiles.

Gina: Don’t eat too many donuts.

He rolls his eyes slightly and leaves with the children. Gina puts the phone to her ear the door closes.

Gina: Hello?

Jackie OS: Gina?

Gina’s face drops.

Gina: (quietly) Jackie?

CUT TO:

INT. OFFICE

Jackie is sat on a mobile phone, in an office that is apparently in her own home. She looks earnest.

Jackie: Is this a good time?

CUT TO:

INT. GINA’S HOUSE

Gina looks lost for words.

Gina: Ma’am y-you shouldn’t be ringing me, i-if they find out we’ve been speaking together-

Jackie OS: I know.

CUT TO:

INT. JACKIE’S HOUSE

Jackie looks understanding, but determined.

Jackie: That’s why I’m ringing you on my neighbour’s cell phone.

CUT TO:

INT. GINA’S HOUSE

Gina pauses.

Gina: What is it you want?

CUT TO:

INT. JACKIE’S HOUSE

Jackie leans back in her chair.

Jackie: Gina; something is not right here. We both know it. Maybe others do too, but right now, you are one of the only people I can trust.

There is a pause.

Gina OS: I...I can’t help you ma’am. My family-

Jackie: Are gonna be at far greater risk from Haven than Amethyst, believe me. Dalen is allowing Haven to harbour more and more criminals each day, Belview is going to suffer. And I don’t buy his reasoning as to why he let Alandra and all the rest go. I think something deeper is going on. Even if it’s not...then Dalen still isn’t working with us.

There is another pause. Jackie looks concerned.

Jackie: I know you were threatened, Gina. And I’m truly sorry that you had to go through that. But I promise you that we can tackle this without Amethyst knowing. You have to trust that I know what I’m doing.

CUT TO:

INT. GINA’S HOUSE

Gina closes her eyes, looking conflicted. She exhales.

Gina: I do trust you ma’am. Though I can’t promise you anything. If this goes too far, if I have to choose between Haven or my family I...

Jackie OS: I know. I hope you won’t have to.

There is a pause.

CUT TO:

INT. JACKIE’S HOUSE

Jackie: Can you meet me at the location we arranged?

Gina OS: Uh, yes ma’am; when?

Jackie hesitates.

Jackie: Are you free tomorrow?

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN, ROOM 16

The little boy from the first scene jumps on the bed. The camera moves over to show his mother.

Woman: Riley stop that.

The little boy sits down on the bed next to his younger sister, but still looks restless. The woman smiles awkwardly at Juliet who is with her.

Woman: Sorry, they uh, haven’t had much chance to use up their energy.

Juliet smiles, nodding slightly. The older girl looks at the bed disdainfully.

Girl: Mommy this bed’s smaller than the one at the motel! Can’t I have my own?

Her mother looks at her wearily.

Woman: I know it’s not ideal Amy but I hope it won’t be for too long. Ok?

The girl looks annoyed but nods. Her mother smiles apologetically at Juliet once again. Juliet smiles too but looks a little concerned.

Woman: You’ve...read my file haven’t you?

Juliet hesitates.

Juliet: I read everyone’s file.

The woman looks anxious.

Woman: I’m sure you hear this a lot but...it’s not true. I-I love my children.

She lifts up her daughter in her arms and avoids eye contact with Juliet, looking hurt. Juliet glances down and then back at her. Amy watches Juliet looking serious.

Juliet: We don’t need to discuss this.

Erica looks at her. She nods looking thankful.

Erica: Thank you.

Juliet nods once.

Juliet: If you...feel you don’t have enough space, two of your kids could go next door if you-

Erica: No.

Juliet is cut off. Erica hesitates and then smiles a little.

Erica: Thank you, but...I want them all here. We’ve always been together, they would be scared.

Riley has jumped off the bed and is running around the room. Juliet watches him and then Erica’s youngest as she sucks her thumb whilst in her mother’s arms. Juliet looks at Erica.

Juliet: Ok. Let me know if you want anything.

She turns and leaves. Erica watches after her and then clutches her daughter tightly, kissing her on the forehead looking anxious.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN DINING AREA

Warren is eating a meal. Marissa appears next to him. He looks up and looks pleased to see her. She smiles back slightly.

Marissa: Hi...uh, can I join you?

Warren holds his hand out to the seat.

Warren: Course.

Warren looks glad that Marissa wants to spend time with him. Marissa sits and hesitates.

Warren: Haven’t seen much of you the last few days.

Marissa: Yeah, I uh, I’ve had some stuff to sort out.

Warren looks curious.

Warren: Yeah? Like what?

Marissa: Well, uh, actually this is what I’ve come to talk to you about. I’ve...decided to leave.

Warren’s face drops. Marissa looks like she has been dreading having to explain herself.

The camera moves across the room and follows Grace as she moves toward a table. Suddenly Riley runs past, almost into her. Grace stops looking irritated. Erica hurries over.

Erica: Riley!

She grabs his hand quickly, pulling him away. Erica smiles apologetically.

Erica: I’m sorry. He’s restless.

Grace smiles weakly.

Grace: No harm...done.

Erica smiles, hesitating.

Erica: Is there uh, anything you might have to keep him entertained? I don’t wanna be trouble, but clearly we already are...

She looks hopeful. Grace glances at Riley. He is swinging on his mother’s arm, looking bored.

Grace: Juliet might have an idea. I don’t do kids, sorry.

Erica looks a little disappointed, but smiles anyway. She walks away with Riley who looks back at Grace staring. Grace looks unimpressed and walks away.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN KITCHEN

Grace walks in. Dominic and Tegan are sat at the table, eating, and look up as Grace walks in. Tegan raises her eyebrows at her expression.

Tegan: Are we gonna have a rant now?

Grace looks at her.

Grace: All I’m saying is, do not have eight million children and then expect the world to be your babysitter.

She walks over the sink. Tegan looks conflicted.

Tegan: You haven’t read her file.

Grace looks back at her. Dominic looks interested too.

Dominic: Serial mom?

Grace gives him a look.

Grace: That? We are never watching.

Dominic smiles slightly but then looks at Tegan who looks more serious.

Tegan: Apparently? Abuser.

Grace looks back, surprised. Dominic’s smile falls. Grace walks towards the table slowly, frowning.

Tegan: I know we don’t know the details, but, definitely weird.

Grace nods slightly.

Grace: So she brings her kids, who she allegedly abuses, here, and...we do nothing?

Tegan clutches her arm with her hand.

Tegan: What would we do? She says she’s innocent-

Grace: She would.

Tegan: We can’t exactly call social services.

Grace: Sure, but, this is something that could be going on a few floors below us, I mean how to do we know?

Tegan doesn’t have a reply. Dominic stares into space, looking very serious. Grace looks annoyed.

Grace: Even if she’s innocent, bringing her children here? How is that good for security? Someone asks them, they could tell anyone where we are. Not like they have a reason to hide.

Dominic: Unless they do.

Grace looks at him. He looks seriously at her. The camera moves away and focuses on the door.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN DINING AREA

The camera moves away from the other side of the door it was just focusing on to show Erica talking to Riley. Her youngest daughter is sat drinking from a cup. She looks at her mother, turned away from her, and then stares into space again, no smile on her face.

CUT TO: BLACK

[Alex]

ACT II

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Gael appears from the main entrance.

Gael: Hey.

Tegan: Hey, you ok?

Gael: Oh you know; fun upstairs as usual. Plus, Mark’s in a “I’m not talking to you” phase or something.

Tegan looks like she knows what he means.

Tegan: It’ll pass.

Gael smiles but suddenly notices Amy is stood near the first lower corridor stairs, watching him. He smiles in an attempt to be friendly. Tegan turns to look and looks serious as she sees Amy.

Gael: Hi. Amy right?

She nods and walks towards the reception.

Amy: Do...you two work here?

Tegan: Uh huh.

Amy pauses. Gael glances at Tegan and then back at Amy.

Gael: Uh, does your mum know you’re up here?

Amy smiles.

Amy: You say “mom” funny.

Gael smiles.

Gael: So I’m told.

Amy looks at Tegan.

Amy: Are you two boyfriend and girlfriend?

Tegan and Gael look at one another.

Tegan: We...are not.

Amy looks unphased.

Amy: I had a boyfriend once, but we had to break up when mommy took us away.

Tegan narrows her brow very slightly. Gael looks interested.

Gael: You moved away?

Amy: Yeah. I’m not supposed to say though.

Tegan looks concerned now, as does Gael.

Tegan: Your mom told you that?

Amy nods. Gael looks at Tegan. Suddenly footsteps are heard up the stairs. Gael and Tegan turn to see Erica appearing. She looks relieved as she sees Amy, who turns also. Erica looks serious as she walks up to Amy quickly..

Erica: There you are! You can’t wander off like this Amy, you don’t know this place.

Amy: We were just talking.

Erica: That doesn’t matter, these people don’t want you bothering them.

Erica looks from Gael to Tegan, apologetically.

Gael: It’s not a problem. Been a while since I’ve been around kids her age, makes a nice change.

Erica smiles, but looks resolute as she takes Amy by the hand.

Erica: Come on.

Amy looks back at Tegan and Gael as she walks away with her mother. Tegan and Gael look serious as they contemplate what Amy was saying.

CUT TO:

INT. SECOND-LOWER CORRIDOR

Erica and Amy walk down the steps.

Erica: You can’t just talk to people. You know what I’ve told you.

Amy: I was going to say anything.

Erica: People might think bad things about us Amy, it’s best to stay away from them.

They walk down to the third-lower corridor and out of earshot. The camera moves down the second-lower corridor slowly. Room 10’s door opens. Bethany and Josef walk out. Bethany smiles rolling her eyes.

Bethany: I gotta clean! I can’t really use sex as an excuse.

Josef: You forget bout Gael and Grace huh?

Bethany: Yeah, well, I’m not them ok? Be a good boy and I’ll come back.

Bethany smiles and tries to leave as Josef stops her, grinning.

Josef: Why don’t I come help you?

Bethany: Because “help” will quickly become non-help.

She pokes him in the stomach.

Josef: Hey I’m not a sex pest, I can concentrate on other things.

Bethany: Uh huh? Well maybe you should concentrate on what we talked ‘bout before?

Josef’s smile fades. Bethany raises her eyebrows.

Bethany: Seriously. I’m only saying it ‘cause-

Josef: You mean well, I know. But you’re wrong.

Bethany sighs.

Bethany: I have to go anyway, ok?

She smiles slightly and walks down the corridor. Josef watches her, looking conflicted. He turns into his room when suddenly the sound of something smashing can be heard. Josef stops, frowning and walks back into the corridor. He looks at Bethany who has also heard the sound. The two of them immediately turn to Room’s 12 and 13, the direction of the crash. Bethany listens at the door of Room 13.

Bethany: Callista?

She knocks. There is no answer. She looks at Josef, concerned, and slowly turns the handle.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 13

Fragments of the bedside lamp are scattered next to the bed. The door opens as Bethany leans her head around to see what has happened. She looks worriedly at Callista who is sat on the ground, in shock.

Bethany: Callista are you...?

Bethany looks confused for a moment, as does Josef who has also entered. He walks past Bethany, but is not looking at Callista...

He is looking at what she is staring at.

He slowly walks towards part of the room. Rachel’s crib. He looks serious as he peers over the edge. Bethany suddenly realises. She puts her hand to her mouth. Josef closes his eyes, looking in shock. Callista stares into space, her face unmoving.

FADE TO: GREY

FADE TO:

INT. SECOND LOWER CORRIDOR

“God Bless the Child” by Michelle Featherstone begins to play. Everything is in semi-slow motion during the song. The piano introduction plays as Juliet walks out of Room 13 looking grave. She turns to Room 14 and knocks twice, before unlocking the door.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 14

Mitch turns to look at Juliet. She stares at him. Mitch looks confused. Juliet slowly closes the door behind her.

‘God bless the child
Who can’t find their way home’

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 13

Callista stands looking numb. Tegan and Bethany stand with her looking grave. Tegan looks as Devyn carries Rachel’s body in his arms, hidden in the cloth she has been gently wrapped in. Callista stares at her in disbelief.

‘God bless the child
Who is weary in soul’

Mitch enters the room, looking desperate. Suddenly he sees Devyn holding Rachel. His expression becomes the same as Callista’s as he stares at his daughter’s body. Callista stares at him as he finally makes eye contact with her. Juliet appears behind Mitch and looks grave as she makes eye contact with Devyn. There is an eternal pause as the instrumental part of the song begins once again. Devyn finally starts to move.

‘Oh beware
To take care of yourself
Or you lack the strength
To help somebody else’

CUT TO:

INT. SECOND LOWER-CORRIDOR

As the piano continues, Devyn walks down the corridor with Rachel, followed by Callista and Mitch and then Juliet, Tegan and Bethany. Marissa is stood in the corridor. She looks shocked as she stares at the procession, realising what is happening. As they approach the stairs, Riley appears at the top of the stairs leading down to the third lower corridor.

‘God bless the child
Who is broken and bruised’

Riley watches as Devyn walks past, staring seriously at the scene. Devyn does not notice him, and Callista and Mitch seem too shocked to see him. However Tegan notices him as she walks past. They stare at one another. Erica appears behind Riley and smiles slightly at Tegan but then looks confused by her expression.

‘God bless the child
Who just wants to be good’

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

The procession walks toward the door behind the staff corridor. Erica follows with Tegan looking shocked, holding her youngest daughter’s hand. Riley and Amy appear also. Erica stares at the scene looking shocked.

‘Oh beware
To take care of yourself
Or you lack the strength
To help somebody else’

Gael, Grace, Dominic and several other guests appear at the entrance to the dining area. Gael makes eye contact with Amy. She stares at him looking sad. Josef walks up to Bethany and puts his arm around her.

‘So take care, so take care
Of yourself’

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN STAFF CORRIDOR

Devyn walks in the direction of the stairs to the basement. The final piano section plays. Callista and Mitch follow him, side by side, avoiding eye contact, but yet still united in grief.

CUT TO:

INT. JULIET’S OFFICE

The final piano note plays as we see Juliet sat behind her desk. Callista and Mitch are sat on the other side. All of them look serious. Juliet inhales.

Juliet: It’s up to you...what you’d like to do.

There is no response. Juliet knows she has to continue.

Juliet: We don’t really have a routine for...for situations like this. But if there’s anything you’d like, we can try and arrange it.

Mitch makes eye contact with Juliet. He shows a fraction of a smile in way of thanks for this offer. Juliet returns the same smile. Callista just stares into space. Juliet glances at her.

Mitch: I think we’d like a chance to...be with her, for a while. We understand she can’t stay here forever.

Callista OS: I want her cremated.

Callista looks up. Mitch turns to her.

Mitch: What?

Callista swallows, attempting to look resolute.

Callista: We can’t take her body out of here. At least...ashes would be something.

Mitch looks frustrated.

Mitch: You know I’m not gonna agree to that.

Callista looks desperate.

Callista: Mitch. Please. We can’t leave her here.

He doesn’t respond.

Juliet: There’s no rush. Take your time.

Mitch looks at her.

Mitch: You gonna let me leave my room?

Juliet glances at Callista looking uncertain. Callista looks at the ground but nods very slightly at her. Juliet looks at Mitch who slowly stands. Callista does as well and the two of them walk to the door, watched by a silent Juliet.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN KITCHEN

Gael, Dominic, Grace, Devyn and Tegan are sat around the table looking sombre. Dominic looks at Devyn.

Devyn: We’re sure it’s that? SIDS...?

Devyn looks uncomfortable.

Devyn: Not certain; but it looks like it.

Grace looks at him.

Grace: No evidence to suggest that mommy and daddy might have been...

The others look at her a little surprised.

Gael: Grace-

Grace: I know. I don’t wanna be the one to point the finger and try and place blame...but we all know they have problems. Problems that don’t mix well with parenting.

Tegan looks serious.

Tegan: Sure. But, Callista at least, was always with her, if there was any kind of...maltreatment going on, I think we’d have seen something by now.

Devyn nods slowly.

Devyn: We shouldn’t try and find a reason. There is no reason.

He stands up, exhaling, walking over to the counter. He turns on the tap to get some water. Grace watches him; normally she would pursue her feelings but she does not. Dominic places his hand on Grace’s. She looks at him. He is staring down at the table. Grace looks at him sadly. Tegan slowly stands.

Tegan: I better get back to the reception. Just in case.

Gael nods at her. She smiles momentarily at the others and glances at Devyn but he is turned away. Tegan walks away. The others start to get up and return to their jobs: life goes on.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 1

Marissa and Warren are sat on the edge of his bed. Marissa shakes her head. Warren looks serious.

Marissa: That poor woman.

Warren glances at her.

Marissa: I wish I could go and say something but...I hardly know her.

Warren nods.

Warren: What about...Mitch?

Marissa looks at him.

Marissa: What about him?

Warren stares at her.

Warren: You don’t have any sympathy for him?

Marissa hesitates.

Marissa: Of-of course I do...I just have more for her. After what he did to her...I imagine she didn’t feel like she had much left to love in the world. Now she has even less.

Warren slowly nods. Marissa glances at him.

Marissa: I know it hits close to home.

Warren says nothing. Marissa looks at him.

Marissa: These last few months, I’ve said a lot to you Warren. I meant all of it when I said it. That doesn’t mean I don’t wish we could have become friends again if things were different.

Warren looks serious.

Warren: Then stay.

Marissa deflates slightly, looking like she feared he would say this.

Marissa: Warren-

Warren: No, listen: what are the odds that you and I would end up in this place together, at the same time? We’ve been offered a chance to rebuild something here-

Marissa: Rebuild?

Marissa narrows her brow.

Marissa: Warren there is no rebuilding, there is what we had which is completely and utterly erased...and then there’s what we have now which is new, and not part of who we were before.

Warren doesn’t respond but looks disappointed. Marissa narrows her eyes slightly looking suspicious.

Marissa: Are you suggesting something more..?

Warren looks hesitant.

Warren: I...don’t know.

Marissa looks confused.

Warren: I guess I had a crazy thought that...one day...you might see that I can be more than who I was and...that you might...take me back.

Marissa stares at Warren in slight disbelief. Warren looks as if he immediately regrets saying what he did. Marissa slowly stands looking in shock. She looks down at him.

Marissa: How...how could you possibly ask me to take you back? How can you be so [i]cruel[i] Warren? The only reason you want me back is to make you feel better about yourself. It’s taken years for me to feel good about myself.

She places her hand on her chest.

Marissa: You can’t erase time. You think that if we got back together it’d be some kind of validation? It won’t be. You claim to have changed...then don’t treat me like an idiot.

Warren looks ashamed. Marissa looks at the ground and then at him again.

Marissa: I’m leaving next week. I’ll let you know when.

She looks upset and walks out. Warren watches her, his hopes shattered.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 13

Callista is lying on her side on her bed staring into space. Mitch is sat at the end of her bed.

Mitch: Are you gonna sleep?

Callista gives him a glance.

Callista: Are you?

Mitch watches her.

Mitch: I doubt it.

Callista looks back into space.

Callista: Then there’s your answer.

Mitch pauses.

Mitch: Are we gonna continue this, even now?

Callista looks at him, her eyes furious.

Callista: Don’t you dare take the moral high-ground with me.

Mitch sighs.

Mitch: I’m not. I just think we should try and-

Callista: Try and what? Forget that you attacked me less than a week ago? Forget everything we’ve done...

She sits up looking tearful.

Callista: And pretend that we loved her more...

She looks angry as tears run down her cheeks.

Callista: Than we loved to win.

Mitch looks serious. Callista screws up her eyes, angry with herself as much as Mitch.

Mitch: You shouldn’t blame us for her death.

Callista: I don’t. I blame us for not being the parents we shoulda been. We didn’t deserve her.

Mitch does not respond.

Mitch: We did the best we knew how to do.

Callista: And that makes it all right that it wasn’t enough? We took her for granted.

Mitch looks down.

Mitch: Maybe we...coulda done more-

Callista: Yeah. And now...we’ll never get the chance.

Callista looks upset and lies back down, looking away from Mitch. He does not try and pursue this any further.

CUT TO: BLACK

[Alex]

ACT III

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Erica is sat at a table, her youngest daughter on her knee. Amy and Riley are sat nearby. Riley looks unimpressed with the bowl of porridge in front of him.

Riley: Mom this porridge looks like poop.

Youngest daughter: Poop!

Erica looks annoyed.

Erica: Teya that’s a bad word, we don’t say that, do we Riley?

She gives him a pointed look. Riley screws up his mouth as he drops some porridge from his spoon into his bowl. Amy looks up as she sees Gael clearing glasses near the counter. He makes eye contact with her. They share a short smile. Erica looks at Amy and then sees she is looking at Gael. She narrows her brow very slightly but smiles in Gael’s direction. She then looks at her daughter.

Erica: Amy you better eat up.

Amy looks at her and then nods slightly, placing a spoonful of porridge in her mouth. Gael frowns to himself as Amy does not look back at him. He picks up the last plate from the table and then heads to the kitchen.

CUT TO:

INT. JULIET’S OFFICE

Juliet is leant against her desk. Devyn is stood, his hand on a chair. He is frowning.

Devyn: You don’t wanna do this, Jules.

She looks at him seriously.

Juliet: Do you?

He hesitates.

Devyn: Not want. But I am prepared to.

Juliet looks uncomfortable.

Juliet: I didn’t ask you to come see me, so I could ask you to do this.

Devyn: Yeah I know you didn’t. I’m just telling you that I will. I guess it seems kinda right considering I took her before...you didn’t ask me to do that either.

Juliet looks at him.

Devyn: I just felt I had to. Unfortunately death’s not a stranger to me.

Juliet looks serious and looks down. Devyn realises the insinuations of this comment, considering who he is speaking to.

Juliet: Makes two of us.

He doesn’t respond.

Juliet: I thought I’d seen enough to deal with anything that happened here.

She shakes her head looking weary.

Juliet: I know what Mitch and Callista have done but they did not deserve this. No one does. His face when I told him...

She puts her thumb and index finger over her temples, wiping her face. Devyn walks up to her looking concerned.

Devyn: Being unprepared for this...is not something to be ashamed of.

She looks at him.

Devyn: You’re allowed to have moments of weakness?

Juliet looks serious.

Juliet: While Callista and Mitch are going through real loss? I don’t think so.

She turns and goes to sit at her desk. Devyn looks disappointed. He hesitates.

Devyn: I’ll do it though.

Juliet looks at him, about to sit.

Devyn: The cremation.

Juliet stares at him but slowly nods. He nods back and then walks away. She sits down, watching him as he leaves.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN KITCHEN

Grace hangs up her apron. She looks over at Dominic who is washing up.

Grace: Are you going to the funeral? If you can call it that...

Dominic looks round at her.

Dominic: I...uh, don’t think so. I’ve never really been good with stuff like this.

Grace nods.

Dominic: Are you?

Grace shrugs.

Grace: I dunno. Still not convinced Mitch and Callista are entirely innocent in all this.

Dominic looks serious.

Dominic: What would it take to convince you otherwise?

Grace pauses. She shrugs slightly. Dominic dries his hands, looking down.

Dominic: I’ve seen crib death before.

Grace looks serious as she stares at him.

Grace: Someone you knew?

Dominic: Yeah, a friend.

Grace doesn’t know what she should say as Dominic looks serious.

Dominic: You want it to be something that can be explained. Cause it should be. But it’s not. I don’t know how Callista and Mitch treated their kid when we couldn’t see them...but the look in their eyes when they were following Devyn...I’ve seen it before.

Grace looks down, hesitating.

Grace: Maybe I’ve just come to expect the worst from people. Especially those with a record like theirs.

Dominic considers this.

Dominic: Grace...I’m not so much better than them.

Grace gives him a look and walks over to him.

Grace: You already explained all this to me-

Dominic: And you overlook what I’ve done, but not what they’ve done.

Grace frowns.

Grace: I don’t “overlook”; I just think there’s a big difference between being a serial killer who just kills anyone passing by and-

Gael suddenly enters. Grace and Dominic both turn. Gael smiles but notices their expressions.

Gael: Not interrupting something am I?

Grace glances at Dominic.

Grace: We were just talking about the funeral.

Gael nods looking serious.

Gael: Think Devyn and Juliet are setting things up now.

Grace looks at him.

Grace: We’re, uh, not going. We’ll keep an eye on things up here.

Gael hesitates but then nods. Grace glances at Dominic, their conversation still unresolved.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 13

Callista sits on her bed, staring into space. She turns back and looks at the crib still stood near her bed. Empty. There is a knock at the door. She turns as Mitch steps in. He exhales.

Mitch: It’s time.

Callista doesn’t respond; she just stands and walks over to Mitch, and then past him. He looks after her, regretting their lack of unity on this day more than any other.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN BASEMENT

“On the Nature of Daylight” by Max Richter plays as Juliet walks down the steps, followed by Callista and Mitch. They are watched by Devyn, Gael, Tegan, Bethany, Josef, Marissa and several other guests. The room is not welcoming exactly but some effort has been made to make it more appealing.

Devyn tries to comfort Juliet with a smile. She returns a weaker attempt. Callista stares at the large table in the room. Wrapped in a white cloth is Rachel’s body. Callista slowly walks up to it, her face heavy with the weight of grief. Mitch hesitates, but then walks up behind her. Callista leans down and kisses the forehead of her child. Tears run down her cheeks as she leans back up. Mitch places hand on her shoulder. Callista closes her eyes and finally leans into her husband, allowing him to embrace her. She cries more freely as he puts his arms around her. The others watch.

As the duo part, the background comes into focus. We see Grace standing at the bottom of the stairs, staring at the scene. Gael catches her out of the corner of his eye; Grace looks affected by what she has seen. She looks at him and then slowly walks over to him as Mitch and Callista walk away from the table. Mitch makes eye contact with Juliet and then nods. Juliet bows her head, in line with the majority of the others in the room. Devyn looks at her. He moves his hand to clutch hers, but she moves away, without noticing.

The others take her lead and begin to leave. Devyn watches.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN MAIN CORRIDOR

The small crowd ascend the stairs and begin to leave. The staff smiling sadly at Juliet as they pass her. Juliet looks back down the stairs. She inhales and then walks back down.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN BASEMENT

Juliet stands in the background, out of focus. Devyn is stood next to the table where Rachel’s body has been placed. He knows what must happen next, but pauses. Juliet watches him, looking conflicted.

Juliet: You don’t have to do this.

Devyn turns his head. He looks decided and nods.

Devyn: Yeah I do.

Juliet closes her eyes, exhaling and then turns. She hesitates and then closes the basement door slowly. It closes with a thud. The piece of music ends.

CUT TO:

EXT. SUMMERTIME GENERAL – DAY

CUT TO:

INT. SUMMERTIME GENERAL

Mark is at the till. Aura is stacking shelves. She looks over at him. He looks serious as he stares into space.

Aura: Why so down?

He glances at her.

Mark: You forgotten what’s happening downstairs?

Aura looks serious.

Aura: You coulda gone if you wanted.

Mark: And what would I have said if I did huh?

Aura looks angry and throws down the packets she is holding. Mark looks startled.

Aura: You really wanna make me the bad guy here don’t you? Like I’m the one making all your decisions for you. How many times do I haveta’ remind you ‘bout why we’re doing this, Mark? You think I want to sell this people out?

Mark does not respond. Aura glances up at the camera. She slowly picks up the packets and starts arranging on the shelf again.

Mark: I don’t think it’s been that hard for you so far.

Aura looks at him.

Aura: You think I ain’t got no feelings? You think I don’t wish that I could be as comfortable here as Tegan, or Gael or Juliet? We’re never gonna be. These people are doing good Mark, I know that. But it ain’t enough. This war ain’t gonna be won by Haven. You and I both know it.

The front entrance opens. Aura turns and smiles weakly as she goes back to packing. Mark looks away from Aura and waits as the customer takes something from the chilled cabinet. They place it on the counter. Aura hesitates and then steps over next to the customer.

Aura: We got an offer going. Can get another o’ those half price if you want.

The camera quickly turns to show who she is speaking to:

Jackie. She smiles but looks weary herself.

Jackie: Oh, thanks.

She grabs another sandwich from the cabinet and places it on the counter. Aura nods slightly and goes back to her work. As the till clicks, Jackie turns to leave, completely unaware of where she is. The camera follows her as she leaves and walks out into the street. She walks along for a few seconds before walking around to the passenger seat of a red Volvo. Gina is sat in the passenger seat. Jackie gets in and passes one of the sandwiches to her.

Jackie: Hope you like tuna.

Gina smiles.

Gina: Oh, I do. Thank you ma’am, you shouldn’t have.

Jackie: Don’t mention it. And considering what we’re doing, I think you can drop the “ma’am”. Jackie’s fine.

Gina looks a little surprised but nods. Jackie takes a bite from her sandwich and then consults a map in her lap.

Jackie: Ok...I think we should continue down here...

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 16

Erica is sleeping on the bed. Behind her, Riley can be seen asleep as well. Amy however is lying with her eyes wide open, staring at the ceiling. She looks over at her sleeping siblings and her mother and then carefully sits up and rises from the bed. She slowly slips on her shoes and tiptoes to the door.

Voice OS: Where are you going?

Amy quickly turns; Teya has her head raised, watching her. Amy relaxes slightly.

Amy: (quietly) For a walk. Go to sleep!

Teya: I wanna go.

Amy: No, you can’t.

Teya: (louder) I wanna go!

Amy looks worried.

Amy: Ssh you’ll wake mommy!

Teya looks upset.

Amy: If you stay here I’ll bring you back some chocolate milk.

Teya grins. She nods slowly and rolls back over. Amy looks pleased that this worked, and turns to leave.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Amy looks around. There is no one behind the reception. However noises can be heard nearby. She peers around the corner to look down the main corridor. Juliet is stood several metres away as Devyn appears up the basement steps. They both look grave. Juliet can be seen saying something to Devyn but their voices are out of Amy’s earshot.

Voice OS: Hey, what are you doing up here?

Amy turns quickly. Tegan is looking down at her smiling looking curious. Amy hesitates. Tegan looks suspicious.

Tegan: Is your mom up here?

Amy: She’s sleeping.

Tegan smiles slightly.

Tegan: Ok, well I don’t think she’s gonna be too happy to find you not there if she wakes up. Plus it’s kinda late-

Amy: I wanted to come see you.

Tegan narrows her brow looking confused.

Tegan: Me?

Amy nods.

Tegan: Why?

Amy looks hesitant.

Amy: My mom doesn’t let me talk to people much. You...listened to me earlier. Most people don’t like to listen.

Tegan looks conflicted, but also curious. She puts her hand on the reception desk.

Tegan: You wanna sit up here?

Amy nods. Tegan lifts her up and then goes round to sit in her chair. She looks at Amy.

Tegan: What do you wanna talk about?

Amy looks thoughtful.

Amy: My mom says this is a place where people come when they’ve been bad.

Tegan smiles weakly.

Tegan: Yeah, she’s right.

Amy: Are you bad?

Tegan looks down, wondering how to answer this.

Tegan: I have been, in the past.

Amy considers this.

Amy: You’re like my mom. She said we had to come here cause of what she did a long time ago.

Tegan frowns as she hears this. She looks puzzled.

Tegan: Amy...do you know what your mom did?

Amy looks at her.

Amy: I’m not sure.

Tegan looks confused. Amy hesitates.

Amy: She doesn’t like that I remember things.

Tegan narrows her brow.

Tegan: What do you remember?

Amy pauses.

Amy: When I was little, Teya was crying and mommy was angry; and a lady was trying to take Riley away. He was hurt.

Tegan looks alarmed.

Amy: Mommy was trying to stop her...and then someone picked me up. A man. I don’t know what happened after.

Tegan considers what she has just heard.

Amy: One time I asked her about the lady, but she looked angry and told me I imagined it. But I didn’t!

Tegan nods slowly.

Tegan: I believe you. Do you thi-

Voice OS: What is this?

Tegan and Amy look over to see Erica stood at the top of the first lower corridor stairs looking angry. Erica walks towards them hurriedly.

Tegan: Sorry it’s my fault, I should’ve brought her down-

Erica: Yeah, you’re right, you should have.

Tegan looks awkward. Erica lifts Amy down from the reception roughly, and picks her up in her arms. Tegan’s awkwardness turns to concern as Amy looks upset.

Amy: Ow!

Tegan: Hey, you’re hurting her!

Erica looks at Tegan angrily.

Erica: Excuse me, who the hell are you? I have explained to you people that I want my children where I can see them in this place, is that too much to ask? You clearly have no idea what it is to be a parent. Please stop trying to interfere.

She swiftly carries Amy away. Amy stares at Tegan as she and her mother turn the corner. As they pass, we see Juliet staring at the scene. She looks at Tegan, confused by what has happened. Tegan stares back, wrestling with her own suspicions.

CUT TO: BLACK

[Alex]

ACT IV

CUT TO:

INT. JULIET’S OFFICE

Tegan and Gael are sat opposite Juliet’s desk. Juliet is stood with her back to them. She turns round as Tegan speaks.

Tegan: I’m the last person who’s gonna condemn someone on circumstantial evidence, but there’s more than her file to consider. Amy wanted to tell me more, but she didn’t have a chance when Erica swooped down from nowhere and took her away.

Juliet considers this. Tegan looks frustrated.

Tegan: Gael, you were there earlier.

Gael looks at her.

Tegan: “I’m not supposed to tell”? On scale of one to ten, that is high up there in the cover up indications. Not to mention the fact she remembers her brother being taken away and her mom trying to stop that from happening-

Juliet: Ok I agree. But if we start accusing Erica of child abuse, where do we draw the line?

Gael looks up at her.

Gael: Surely the line is when other people start to get hurt?

Juliet: Her own children? We know nothing about their history.

Juliet looks weary and sits down. She seems to be thinking for herself.

Juliet: The fact she’s claiming she’s innocent doesn’t give us much in the way of options.

Tegan looks serious.

Tegan: Jules, yesterday I would totally be with you on this. But I can tell when something is wrong, and something really is here. I know I was against talking to the guests when Devyn first suggested it but if there was any time where I really think we should try and help...it’s now.

Juliet looks serious.

Juliet: It’s either helping those children...or helping Erica go through another ordeal cause of what we suspect.

Tegan looks at the floor, knowing this is true. Gael looks at Juliet.

Gael: Or we do nothing and never know. Yeah, we’re the last people to talk about making moral choices...but can those kids really afford us to look away?

Juliet still looks undecided as to what to do. There is a knock at the door. Juliet looks at it.

Juliet: Come in.

The door opens. Mitch walks in.

Mitch: I, uh, need to talk to you.

CUT TO:

EXT. AMETHYST HQ – MORNING

CUT TO:

INT. JACKIE’S HOUSE

Jackie is on the phone in her home office.

Gina: I don’t know what to suggest but to continue looking.

Jackie hesitates.

Jackie: No. I was an idiot to think we’d get some kind of clue from driving around. Whoever’s running Haven, they’re good.

CUT TO:

INT. GINA’S HOUSE

She is sat at home in her kitchen. Her son is sat at the table behind her, writing. She looks at him and then turns round.

Gina: What else can we do?

CUT TO:

INT. JACKIE’S HOUSE

Jackie pauses.

Jackie: I have an idea or two. But it involves bringing a third party into this.

Gina: Jackie...

Jackie: Don’t worry. He’s trustworthy. And he knows I am. He’ll do what I ask.

CUT TO:

INT. GINA’S HOUSE

Gina: Are you gonna tell me what that is?

Jackie: Not yet.

CUT TO:

INT. JACKIE’S HOUSE

Jackie: Because frankly I’m not sure that what I have in mind is even plausible. If it is; you’ll know soon enough.

CUT TO:

INT. GINA’S HOUSE

She looks uncomfortable.

Gina: All right.

A ringing can be heard on the other end. Gina looks confused.

CUT TO:

INT. JACKIE’S OFFICE

Jackie looks at her landline phone.

Jackie: I have another call. We’ll talk soon.

She hangs up the mobile and then picks up the other phone.

Jackie: Jackie Stevens here.

Voice: Oh, Ms Stevens, this is Deirdra Kyre.

Jackie’s eyes widen slightly.

Jackie: Uh, good morning ma’am.

CUT TO:

INT. OFFICE

Deirdra is sat in a large leather chair; she is in her 60s and has short blonde hair. She is dressed in an expensive white suit. Her looks to be far more expensively decorated than Jackie’s. Through the wall length windows behind her, Amethyst can be seen stretching out into the distance, at least a hundred feet below.

Deirdra: You’re right it is. For Amethyst, at least. Mr Dalen has been called away unexpectedly, I’ve been asked to lend my services to your operation for the time being. You’ll need to head over here as soon as possible, we may have been handed a lifeline in the Haven operation.

CUT TO:

INT. JACKIE’S OFFICE

Jackie looks to be in disbelief and can’t help but smile. She heads to a chair and takes a jacket, and starts to put it on while talking.

Jackie: O-of course ma’am, I’ll make my way to you now.

Deirdra: Wonderful. I’ll see you shortly.

She can be heard hanging up. Jackie smiles to herself and quickly heads out. The camera slowly moves over to her desk to show that she has left the mobile phone lying there.

CUT TO:

INT. JULIET’S OFFICE

Juliet is sat behind her desk, Callista and Mitch on the other side. Juliet looks serious.

Juliet: You’ve really had enough time to think this through?

Callista glances at Mitch.

Callista: The last few days, hours have felt like days. We’ve had enough time.

Juliet slowly nods.

Mitch: The reason we had to come here was to try and give Rachel some kind of normal childhood.

There is a grave silence.

Mitch: There is no reason to stay anymore.

Juliet: What about Amethyst?

Callista: Let ‘em come. We’re not delusional enough to think we’re gonna live long enough to be sat side by side in an Old Peoples’ Home, but we’re not planning on sticking around in this city.

Juliet looks at her. Mitch leans forward.

Mitch: I know you asked us to come up here so you can convince us to stay...but that isn’t gonna happen. We’ve made our decision.

Juliet realises she is not going to get anywhere.

Juliet: How are you gonna get out of the city?

Callista: Don’t worry about us. We’re resourceful.

Juliet looks suspicious of the implications of this, alongside Callista’s dark look. Reluctantly she nods.

Juliet: All right then.

Mitch and Callista nod and stand. They turn and head towards the door. Juliet watches them; a couple she will never understand.

CUT TO:

INT. THIRD LOWER CORRIDOR

Erica opens the door to Room 16. She frowns as she faces someone in the corridor. She folds her arms quickly.

Erica: What do you want?

Gael faces her; he looks neutral.

Gael: To talk to you. Is that all right?

Erica looks defensive.

Erica: Why should I listen to what you have to say to me? It’s all gonna be the same-

She stops, realising that Amy is stood next to her. She looks down at her and then back at Gael.

Gael: Maybe not. Listen, there’s a room down the corridor, it’s not been taken yet. Won’t take long.

Erica hesitates and exhales quickly and crouches down next to Amy.

Erica: Sweetie stay here for a few minutes ok? Please?

Amy glances at Gael but then nods at her mother. Erica looks glad and then stands. She looks over at Riley and Teya.

Erica: I’ll be back in a few minutes. Stay with Amy ok?

Riley and Teya nod slowly, looking confused. Erica smiles slightly and then looks at Amy before walking out. Her smile fades as she begins to walk with Gael.

CUT TO:

INT. ROOM 21

Gael walks in, followed by Erica. She looks agitated and prepared to defend herself. Gael turns to face her.

Erica: I know you’ve been speaking to my daughter. I’d like you to know that I don’t appreciate it; she’s barely eight years old-

Gael: Did she tell you what she told me and Tegan?

Erica hesitates looking annoyed.

Erica: She has a very...vivid imagination-

Gael: Right, right, that’s the easy way for you to keep her quiet.

Erica smiles bitterly, clutching her elbows.

Erica: This is exactly what I expected, I don’t know why I-

She turns to leave but Gael steps towards her.

Gael: Wait.

Erica stops and looks back looking unimpressed. Gael walks closer to her.

Gael: You’re used to being accused right?

Erica hesitates.

Erica: Word spreads round fast.

Gael: I know. Cause all people have got is their suspicion if you’ve got nothing to say.

Erica looks annoyed.

Erica: I can’t change their minds. No one believes someone they’ve already decided to condemn.

Gael pauses.

Gael: Maybe not. Because you can convince me right now. If you want to talk; I will listen.

Erica considers this.

Erica: You have thieves, murderers, God knows who else, walking around here. Do they get this talk too?

Gael looks serious.

Gael: They’re not sleeping in the same room as their alleged victims.

Erica looks taken-a-back.

Erica: How dare you-

Gael: You’re innocent. Tell me why your daughter remembers people trying to take her and Riley away. Tell me why you’re so scared about people talking to your children.

Erica looks somewhat desperate as she looks around the room. Gael waits for an answer. Erica exhales deeply.

Erica: All right. But I’m telling you; no one else.

Gael nods. Erica walks past him, gathering her thoughts. She then turns around, having decided on a place to begin.

Erica: My children...there was never abused...by me.

Gael frowns as he listens. Erica looks anxious.

Erica: Amy and Riley...they aren’t my children. Not originally.

Gael looks shocked. Erica stares at him, challenging his reaction. Gael tries to look more neutral.

Gael: Go on.

Erica looks at the wall.

Erica: Their real parents treated them worse than cattle. Amy remembers things from time to time, but I don’t think she knows what she really went through.

She makes eye contact with Gael.

Erica: I lived next door to them with my husband. We could only go so long hearing the shouting, the cries. We had to do something.

Gael knows where this is going.

Gael: You took them away.

Erica: Damn right we did. I was pregnant with Teya at the time but we...felt like we had to save them from those people. Even if it wasn’t our right; it was our choice, to give them a chance.

Gael considers this. Erica exhales.

Erica: We settled down here, in Belview. A new start. Of course there were still remnants of what their real parents did to them. Questions were asked; accusations were made. Before I knew it, we were criminals in the eyes of the neighbourhood. It was only a matter of time before the “law” became involved. My husband couldn’t handle the pressure, he left me. I tried to move to a new area, but it wasn’t enough. And here I am in this place.

She looks upset. Gael looks sympathetic.

Gael: I’m sorry.

Erica: I don’t want your pity. But I do want your understanding. Do I have it, now?

Gael hesitates. He slowly nods. Erica looks somewhat relived, closing her eyes. She heads towards the door.

Gael: Riley must have been too young to remember his parents...but what about Amy? What do you tell her?

Erica stops. She slowly turns round.

Erica: She remembers being in pain...and then that pain ending. She knows me as her mother, and she always will. Though she’ll never be truly happy. I can see it on her face. I don’t pretend that I’m giving her the perfect life...but it is certainly better, than the one she and Riley would have had. If what I’ve done is a crime...then I am proud to be a criminal.

She turns and walks out. Gael watches where she was stood, thinking about what he has heard.

CUT TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Mitch is carrying the bag he arrived with toward the reception. Callista follows him, carrying a smaller bag, and wearing the long flowing coat she was wearing when she arrived. Juliet and Devyn are stood nearby, and Tegan is behind the reception. “Combat Baby” by Metric begins to play in the background. There is a short pause.

Devyn: Guess the only thing left to say really is...good luck.

Mitch smiles weakly.

Mitch: We’ve never been big on luck. But...thanks.

Devyn nods slightly, but it is clear he still has little feelings for Mitch.
Juliet looks at Callista.

‘We used to leave the blue lights on and there was a beat
Ever since you have been gone it's all caffeine-free
Faux punk fatigues’

Juliet: You know where we are if you need us again.

Callista: Thanks; but I hope we never do.

Juliet understands what she means. Callista looks at Mitch.

Callista: All right then.

She smiles weakly at Juliet.

Callista: Thanks.

Juliet smiles weakly.

‘Said it all before
They try to kick it, their feet, fall asleep
Get no harm done, no
None of them want to fight me’

Callista and Mitch turn to leave as the scene falls into slow motion. Callista turns to see Marissa watching her. They share a mutual smile, not overly friendly, but they share one small moment. Mitch turns to see Warren standing at the top of the first floor stairs. He turns away, avoiding eye contact.

‘Combat baby come back baby
Fight off the lethargy
Don't go quietly’

Devyn follows them up as the approach the main entrance. Juliet walks forward slightly as she and Tegan watch the notorious couple leave.

‘Combat baby
Said you would never give up easy
Combat baby come back’

CUT TO:

INT. GRACE’S ROOM

Grace is lying with her head in Dominic’s lap. They are watching a film and eating pizza. Dominic strokes her hair gently, as she rubs his leg slightly.

‘Get back in town I wanna paint it black’

MOVE TO:

INT. ROOM 16

Erica lying on her bed, Riley running after Teya. She can be seen telling them to stop. She puts her arm around Amy however and looks, at least, content.

‘Wanna get around
Easy living crowd so flat’

MOVE TO:

INT. HAVEN LOBBY

Tegan is at the reception. Suddenly the front door opens. Tegan looks up. She smiles as she sees who it is but her smile quickly disappears. Marcia and Lucas approach her quickly. Marcia looks upset. Tegan narrows her brow as she prepares for the worst.

‘Said it all before
They try to kick it, their feet fall asleep
I want to be wrong but
No one here wants to fight me like you do’

CUT TO:

INT. AMETHYST HQ

Jackie slowly turns around. She surveys someone who is sitting down. The camera moves around to show it is Greg, tied up and brutally cut and bruised. Jackie looks serious.

‘Combat baby come back baby
Fight off the lethargy
Don't go quietly’
Combat baby
Said you would never give up easy
Combat baby come back’

CUT TO:

EXT. RURAL ROAD

The instrumental middle of the song plays as the camera moves along the side of an expensive, black convertible car. Callista and Mitch are both leaning against it, watching the sunset. Callista is wearing black sunglasses. The music dies down at bit but can still be heard. Mitch looks at Callista.

Mitch: I told you things would be better out here.

‘I try to be so nice’

Callista looks at him.

‘Compromise’

Callista: They’re never gonna be better.

‘Who gets it good?’

Mitch looks like he wishes he could convince Callista.

Mitch: Things are gonna be as good as we want them to be. We just gotta take the risk; make it happen. You know the drill.

‘Every mighty mild seventies child’

Callista looks at him. She smiles.

Callista: You bet.

‘Every mighty mild seventies child’

She suddenly takes out a gun and pulls the trigger. Mitch only has time widen his eyes as the bullet his him in the forehead.

‘Beats me’

His body rebounds slightly and then crumples to the ground. Callista watches him for a second, her expression empty. She slowly reaches into the back of the convertible and takes something out: Rachel’s ashes.

‘Do doo doo doo’

CUT TO:

EXT. RURAL ROAD

Callista is stood on the opposite side of the road. She releases the ashes into the wind. She looks sad as she does so, but also at peace.

‘Combat baby come back baby
Combat baby come back’

CUT TO:

EXT. RURAL ROAD

Callista begins to drive, leaving Mitch’s body where he died. The camera pulls away as she drives off into the sunset...

‘Bye bye bye bye bye bye bye bye baby
Combat baby come back’

CUTO:

INT. SUMMERTIME GENERAL

Mark stacks shelves. The camera moves past him to show Aura staring from the counter, a dark look in her eyes.

‘How I miss your ranting
Do you miss my all time lows’

CUT TO: BLACK

THE END