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At Sarah's Books:
Sands *Takes a deep breath before opening the door to ‘Sarah’s Books’ and entering the shop. He sees Isabella putting some books in order on one of the shelves; approaches her*
Isabella *Hears the bell over the door and turns; sighs as she sees who it is. Continues
what she’s doing* What are you doing here? I
thought I made it clear that I need some time.
Sands: I know, but I need to talk to you. *Insistently*
It’s important. Do you think
we could go somewhere and talk?
Isabella *Dismissive* No, we can’t. I’m
alone. Sarah dragged James out to look at baby stuff; I can’t leave. So whatever you want to tell me, just say it.
Sands: OK … *removes his sunglasses revealing his eyes; smiles a
little* Mrs. Brasco worked her magic.
Isabella *can’t help but smile as she’s suddenly looking into those intense brown eyes* I’m glad. I really am. *Looks
down* But, I’m not sure if it changes anything.
Sands *Quietly* That’s not why I’m here.
Isabella *feels very silly that she’s disappointed by the fact that he’s not there to win her back; she
was going to turn him down anyway. Tries to hide it rather unsuccessfully* Oh … then what is it?
Sands: Well … OK … This woman is claiming that she’s
expecting my child. I don’t know if it’s true; she’s not exactly
the Virgin Mary.
Isabella *stares at him completely dumbfounded* But there’s a chance
…?
Sands *nods* Yeah.
Isabella *frowns* And how long have you known about this?
Sands: Since shortly before we broke up … I had James read her letter
to me.
Isabella *thinks about it for a moment, taking it all in; feels the anger rising in her* So … you knew about it, James knew about it … and yet neither of you cared to inform me?
Sands: It happened long before we were together. It’s not like I cheated on you!
Isabella *angrily* That’s not the point! I thought the only reason you were so depressed was because of me and you just let me believe that! Do you have any idea how that felt?
Sands *quietly* Oh … I didn’t think of that.
Isabella: Apparently not …
Sands: I’m sorry … I don’t know what else to say.
Isabella: No, I suppose you don’t. *Looks
at him defiantly* Guilt is a bitch, ain’t it?
Sands: Bella, come on. Don’t
be like that. *Quietly* I really
need my friend for this.
Isabella *Coldly* Sheldon, find another friend. *Turns and continues putting the books in order, hiding the tears rolling down her cheeks. Sands looks at her for a moment; then slowly turns and leaves. She
hears the door going; throws the book she’s holding on the floor* Fuck!
*Slides on the floor burying her face in her hands, feeling both hurt and confused.*
Outside the Security building:
Ichy *to Kat* I really don't
understand what you mean. I am not a -a … *shudders* … vampire to be able to pass through locked doors. And I have to say I don't understand either what you mean with referring to the Commander.
I just serve at the Security, but that is as fas as my loyalty for her goes.
As for those pictures, they seem to me to be a clear enough evidence. He denies it all, doesn't he. You can be a fool if you want,
but I believed you to be smarter than that. *he looks around* This is not a good place. It's better to continue in my Office.
After all, you were wanting to see someone from the Office, and it must be something
with those pictures. Why otherwise would you be here. That is all simple deduction, but not always very obvious. *he
adds somewhat proudly, holding the door open for her*
Kat *Raising an eyebrow* Just
minutes ago ye were goin' on 'bout me fleein'. Somethin' 'bout bein' arrested.
Now 'ere ye be invitin' me into the lion's den. Ye
really ought to be makin' up yer mind, luv. That tour of Portsmith's dungeons
'olds lil appeal te me, savvy???
Ichy *sighs patiently* I don't think it is very wise for either of us to stand here. It would be safer in my Office. I overheard a phone conversation
between Lady Cynthia and the Commander and they were talking about arresting you. I
want to help you, as I always have. Why don't you come over to my house? I could examine closer those photos. They
are very upsetting. Where did you get them from?
Kat: That fool
of a mailman delivered 'em te me. *Glances around nervously* Your 'ouse then, but them pictures don't leave my sight, savvy. I
be still not entirely certain ye be not involved some'ow.
At Chez Roux:
Sands *enters Chez Roux and goes up the bar; he catches the attention of Ross, the bartender.* Hi, can you tell me where I might find your boss’s sister, Kaatje?
Ross *surprised* Oh, you didn’t hear? She went into labour here late Friday night and the little girl was born even before the ambulance arrived
… *frowns* Or they couldn’t reach the hospital on the phone. *Shakes his head* I’m a little fuzzy
on the details, but I do know that she had a little baby girl and that she’s at the hospital now.
Sands *feels his head spin a little and his heartbeat rising* A little
girl?
Ross: Yep. *Leans in over
the bar-counter, lowers his voice* Is it true that you’re the father?
Sands *glares at him without answering and leaves the restaurant; outside he hails a cab. He has faced a lot of enemies in his life, but no one scared him as bad as this river rat and his Dutch
kitchen-witch. If looks could kill, Sands would have been so dead, that even
reincarnation was impossible.*
At the hospital:
Marijke: What a surprise, mister
Sands! I never knew you were interested in my sister, or her baby ... ! Do you have a sudden weak spot in that piece of charcoal that is called your heart?
Roux *pokes her in the ribs, lays a finger on her mouth* HUSH! Let me handle this! *to Sands, in a voice
almost too gentle* Hey! What a surprise
to see you here! My apologies for Marijke's behaviour, it's been a busy night,
and it's the first time she became an auntie. Well, heh heh, you know women,
eh? I really appreciate it that you come to visit Kaatje and her little girl!
Who told you about the birth? Rumours
go fast in this little town, but I didn't know it could go that fast! Well ...
you're welcome, she's on the third floor, everything is okay and we think she'll come home later this afternoon. If you want to see her: that must be okay, she'll be surprised.
Marijke *eyes spitting fire. Her lips made the words* Are you mad or so? *finger circles around her ear to accent
it. Roux pokes her ribs again, winks. Marijke
rolls her eyes; what was her man doing!*
Sands *suddenly realizes they still think he’s blind* Can, ehm, someone guide me to that room? *barely hiding the
feeling of triumph that hit him, but his training and experience as a CIA-agent didn't let him down.*
Roux; Of course I will! *takes
Sands' upper arm and guided him to the elevator and the third floor. Marijke
follows, moving her hands and face like a sign language interpreter for deaf people, a silent Sands-proof way to tell Roux
he was crazy, why take that lunatic to her sister after he let her down, just hours before Marianne was born, has he lost
his mind? And that silly Roux was only winking and smiling! Elevator arrives on the third floor, they walk to Kaatjes room.
Roux *his grip tightens and he throws Sands against the wall, next to the door of Kaatje's room.* Before you walk into her room, you listen to me, you piece of shit!!! You
know where I come from, eh? The people from where I came from, had some very
good treatments for men like you, who knocked women like Kaatje up, straight into the family way, and then ran away! After we caught those cowards, and believe me, no one escaped ... Anyway, after we
were ready with him, it was impossible them to do something like that again for the rest of their life ... if you know what
I mean! Understood?
Sands: Ehm, understood ... !
*This river rat was really someone who must be taken serious! Why didn't
he realise Kaatje and Roux were in laws before he fancied her? Even with his
eyes back, Sands realized he was in deep, deep trouble*
At
Crane’s house:
Ichy *to Kat* The only way I am involved is that I want to help you if you are in trouble. *thinks to himself that the photos are too good to be lost ... Leads her to his house, locks the door, and
looks around. it is like he hadn't been away at all. He pours two drinks, juice
for himself and rum for Kat* Let me have a look at those photos now. How can they? *he shakes his head in disgust*
Kat *Watching him closely sees his reaction. Then recalls Abby's expression when he saw the pictures. Furious at the thought that Abby might wish they were real. Stares
at Ichy, pondering the might have beens. As she looks quickly away something
catches her eye on the floor next to a chair. It's not like Ichy to be so sloppy.
Walks over and picks it up and is astonished to see that it's a pair of women's
panties. Pink ones at that. Snidely*
Well luv, I see ye 'aven't let no grass grow ‘neath yer feet, eh? *Holding the panties up for him to see.*
Ichy *even more disgusted,
recoils from the panties* Do you really think that I would date a woman who throws
her clothes around like that? How very distasteful. I have been away for a long while, as I told you. *he frowns*
It must be Ava DeMarco's. She -
she was hanging constantly after me, just like Miranda. *he shudders* A little romantic fool. She must have used my house since she
couldn't return to her own. It was ransacked and Don Juan is still on the run
... It seems like she has found someone else, thank heavens. Can we return to
the pictures? You have to file a divorce now that you have this kind of evidence.
They must have been very careless. Very
arrogant, to me. Kat, where has the pirate in you gone? Are you really going to accept this kind of behaviour from your husband? And
Blake should be told too. And .. *he looks aside* Why have you totally forgotten
me? You know that I have
never stopped loving you.
Kat: What a cruel
thin' to say. It makes me wonder if ye be one of them that only wants what they
canna 'ave. *Looks at him quizzically*
Iffen I'd been marriage-minded back then, would ye 'ave turned away in time and said the same of me??? Mayhap it be the same with Abby. *Gazes at Ichy* And for me as well, leastin' sometimes. A pirate 'as te do
what be right by them. The onliest thin' Abby be guilty of be lust. Them pictures be faked. 'ardly grounds for divorce, e'en if
I 'ad a mind te.
Ichy *quietly* It seems that I am one who can't have what I want .... *with a hurt expression, turns back to the photos*
No, photos like that can't be faked. There
is no one who could make them look so real. You have to have evidence. *takes a magnifying glass* And lusting
after another's wife .... *he stops in time* How can you even look at him, knowing
he lusts for another woman? *thoughtfully* We
have to find out who sent these photos. Do you still have the envelope? Was there any note? You said that the
mailman delivered these. I must ask him what he knows...
Kat: Ye be wrong, them be fakes. There's sometin'
in 'em or I should say missin' fro' 'em. The date there don't jive with Manouche's tat. See no tat in there and I gave 'er the tat fore then. *Pauses*
The letter, 'ang it! Abby 'as it,
but it said somethin' 'bout they was watchin' Abby for bribery, thievin' and other stuff. Pure
nonsense, it were. The name on it was somethin' Thompson.
At the hospital:
Sands *ponders over the situation for a moment; he could fight back … but then he’d reveal that he’s
in fact not blind and he kind of likes having at least one advantage over them. He
knows that he really shouldn’t; he’s already in trouble – that Roux has a pretty tight grip – but
no way is he going to play ‘Daddy’ to a kid that isn’t his! Tries
to speak in a firm tone, but it really comes out a bit stammering* I still want
that paternity test … *quickly adds* I’ll take full responsibility
IF I am the father, but I want that test!
Marijke *her eyes flashing with fury* Are you calling my sister a liar?
First you declare your love for her, promise her the world – and now you
call her a liar?
Sands *shouts in protest* I was drunk! I
don’t even remember what I told her! *Glances at Roux behind the sunglasses,
wondering he’s going to get a punch in the face. Quietly* She shouldn’t have believed the promises made by a drunk man.
Marijke *looks at Roux expectantly as if waiting for that punch.*
Roux *sighs and loosens his grip. As soon as he does, Sands moves discretely
a step away. Roux turns to Marijke* He
sort of has a point … and a right to have that test.
Marijke *grumpily* I suppose it’ll only prove who’s the father
once and for all.
Sands *smiles satisfactorily* Yes, it will. *Looks at Marijke* And oh yeah, you can stop making sign language
to your river rat; that only works with the blind. *Removes his sunglasses.*
Sorry, cupcake.
Marijke *stares at him for a moment; then coldly* Don’t call me
cupcake!
*A nurse walks by and is quickly cornered by Roux. In a matter of minutes
the test has been arranged and she leads the whole group into an examination room. She
takes a blood-sample from Sands and leaves to get a sample from the baby. As
promised to Marijke and Roux, she doesn’t inform Kaatje what the test is for as they want the result before letting
her know that Sands is there. Marijke, Roux, and Sands are made to wait in the
hall while the laboratory runs the test.*
Nurse *After waiting for quite a while, the same nurse returns. She hands
Sands a piece of paper and smiles* Congratulations on your new baby, sir. *Having sensed the mixed feelings about fatherhood, quickly disappears again.*
Sands *stares after the nurse, then down at the paper; stammering* But
… I can’t be a father … I can’t have a child.
Roux *sharply* Well, you are and you do, so deal with it!
Marijke *rolls her eyes* Why do men always act like it’s the biggest
surprise that babies can come from having sex? *Glares at Sands* It’s not the end of the world! *Rises from her seat*
I’m going to go tell Kaatje that you’re here. *She goes into Kaatje’s room, enters the room quietly; Kaatje is awake and is holding little Marianne*
Hi Sis … I have some news for you.
Kaatje *smiling at her new daughter* What is it?
Marijke: Sands is here … he insisted on having a paternity test
and got the results a little while ago. *Unsurely* Do you want to see him? We’ll send him away if you don’t.
Kaatje *thinks it over for a moment* I don’t really wish to see
him after what he put me through, but I am glad that he’s here and I do want him to see Marianne. Send him in.
Marijke *Nods* OK … *she steps outside the room and waves Sands
in; goes out to Roux to give Kaatje and Sands some privacy*
Sands *steps into the room and cautiously walks closer to the bed; looks at the Kaatje and the baby* Hi … is, is that her?
Kaatje *laughs a little* No, I borrowed this one from a fellow patient.
Yes, this is her … Marianne.
Sands *very unsure of what to do or say, steps a little closer; repeats the name slowly* Marianne …
Kaatje *looks at him for a moment, thinking to herself that there may be hope for him yet; she just needs to awaken
the fatherly feelings in him somehow.* Do you want to hold her?
Sands *shakes his head as he takes a step back* No, no … I don’t
…. *then carefully takes a few steps forward again* Well, I … how
do I?
Kaatje *shows him how to hold the baby properly* Just support her head
like this … *hands the baby over to him and watches with a little smile*
Sands *gently holds the baby the way Kaatje showed him, completely overwhelmed and in awe over the little thing* She’s so tiny! *Touches Marianne’s
small hand and as he does, she curls her little fingers around his finger; smiles* She’s
beautiful …
At From Hell Court:
Hanson *breaking into a run
after the unfortunate woman, gains on her, but when he rounds a corner, she is nowhere to be seen, he checks all the alleys,
all the doors, but she has disappeared. Frustrated, he takes the very cheap three
years old cell phone that the Commander bought for her staff, and he calls Donnie* Um
.. this is Hanson here, I am somewhere in Hell
Court. I
found a witness, a sister to the beaten woman, but she was mortally afraid of the Inspector, in fact, she became quite hysterical
when she saw him, and she ran away. I tried to follow her, but .. umm .. I seem
kinda have lost her. And it seems to me that Inspector Abberline is in trouble
... There's a mob at the Serpent's Claw. What shall I do?
Donnie *has returned to the office after an unsuccessful visit at Bournemouth House; apparently no one was home –
or at least no one answered. Speaks calmly to Hanson* Go back to the Serpent’s Claw and see if Abberline needs any assist. He
is still a fellow officer. If the woman disappeared, there’s not much to
do about that now; I’m sure we can locate her again later. I’ll meet
you by the Claw in a little bit. *Sighs heavily* We
need to bring Abberline in for questioning and I doubt he’ll go voluntarily. If
possible, try to get Abberline away from the crowd and bring him here … without mentioning the questioning part, obviously.
Hanson *feeling uneasy about
returning back to the Serpent's Claw and the threateningly silent mob* I will
go back then and wait for you. Er.. what if you just asked him to come to the
Office by some pretext? And what if he declines, do you have to arrest him then?
*nervously* I am getting closer
now. I can't hear anything ... *he
peeks around the corner, the folks are still there, and Abberline seems to be having an argument with the bar owner. His hand creeps to his hidden gun holster. It
doesn't look good. He can hear Abberline accusing the bar owner of lacing his
drink with drugs ... He stops to listen.*
The owner: So, Mr. Abberline
… *emphasizing the title* I don't keep any illegal drugs in my bar, if
there's opium it must have been carried there by you yourself. Just another vile
trick of yours. We're getting enough of that. Don't
we? *and he turns to the crowd. People
start to mutter and nod*
Donnie *grabs his coat and heads out of the office* I’m on my way.
I trust you can assess the situation yourself and judge when it’s time
to intervene. No need to get yourself injured. *He
hangs up on Hanson and gets in his car driving towards From Hell Court. He parks
the car just outside the area and begins walking in the direction of the Serpent’s Claw.*
At Sarah's
Books:
Isabella *still feeling somewhat confused by the situation between her and Sands; she’s angry
that he didn’t tell her straight away about the baby and this woman, but also hurt by the possibility that not only
their relationship, but also their friendship has ended. Maybe time will mend
some of it, but right now it doesn’t seem like that’ll happen. She
continues her work at the store, while trying to sort out her thoughts and feelings. By
the time Sarah and Barrie returns,
the books have been put in order as promised before they left. Glares at them
without saying anything as they enter the store.*
Sarah *with a happy smile* Hi, anything happen while we were gone? Did you sell anything?
Isabella *looks at her reproachfully* Did you know too?
Sarah *confused* Know what?
Isabella: That Sheldon might be having a child … *looks past Sarah,
glaring at Barrie* Maybe
James thought it was more important to tell you than me. Who knows, right? *Sarah looks quizzically at Barrie*
Barrie *apologetically* He made me promise not to
say anything. I’m sorry, Isabella.
Isabella *Quietly* Yeah, everybody’s freaking sorry. *To Sarah* I’m going to take you up on that offer of
a few days off … I need some time to think and I’ve been offered a job.
Sarah *immediately concerned that it’s another ‘danger-job’* What
kind of job?
Isabella: You know those stables on the outskirts of town? Well, the owner, Luc, has asked me to take some photos and make a promotion folder and some posters. He read the Time magazine article and thought
it might be something for me.
Sarah *relieved* That’s great! Take
all the time you need.
Isabella: Good. *Smiles a
little* Might be good for me to spend some time with horses instead of people
… *Goes behind the counter and pulls out her jacket and handbag.* I’m
gonna go home now. *Glances at Barrie who’s still looking very guilty;
smiles a little* Relax, James. It’s
not really you I’m mad at … *adds* … not primarily anyway. *
James *smiles a little relieved* Still, I should’ve told you.
Isabella: It’s OK. Just
don’t do it again!
James: Deal.
Isabella: Alright then …. *Hugs Sarah and kisses James on the cheek
before she leaves the bookstore and heads home to From Hell Court.*
At From
Hell Court:
Hanson *puts
away the phone* Injured? *he peeks
at the crowd, they are slowly closing in on Abberline, who doesn't seem to notice.* He's
too arrogant, he's got to stop and get away ... *slowly he moves closer*
Abberline *incredulously* You are accusing me of drugging myself? Bloody hell, you are
even more daft than you look.
The owner: Yeah, don't we all know how ye
like to drug yerself. Don't come to my place when ye want to do that again. Right o'er the street, isn't that yer place? *he
nods toward Ivan's den* Though I heard that ye were thrown outta there. *looks at him in contempt* Ye think ye'r
better than us poor folks 'ere, but don't we all know 'ow much ye 'ave profited from us, eh folks? *There's more muttering from the crowd*
Abberline *eyes flashing* Right.
I'll see that you will get what you deserve.
Hanson *moves a little closer,
his hand on the gun, whispers to the closest man* The cops, they'll be here soon
enough.
The man: Ah, yess, that's why we gotta act now. *he raises his voice* And what do you deserve? Haven't you played a friend of us poor folk? Pretending you
care for the unfortunates? And all this time you've just put us tighter than
the Commander ever, taking our money. Protection money indeed! He's been collecting the Commander's money in his own pockets. And
we get the blame. I just ask you all, is that right? How long are we going to tolerate this?
Hanson *realizes to late the error he committed and understands
that he has to act, even if Donnie isn't here yet. He has to do something. He pulls out the gun and shoots in the air and shouts*
They're coming!
At Crane’s house:
Ichy: I am not so sure, Kat. A
date can easily be forged on a photo. And what if these were taken before she
had the tattoo? Or what if she covered it for her lover? *sighs* You should not be so stubborn and emotional. You should look scientifically at the facts, and they would tell you a lot. Doesn't it hurt you to look at their faces? Thieving and bribery?
That doesn't sound like his way, but this - this is a completely different matter.
I am sorry to say, but you still have me not convinced about these photos. You should have taken the letter too. *he
sits down beside her* Maybe I should try to lift some fingerprints from these
photos?
Kat: Iffen them photo's were on the up and up, there'd be no need to forge the date, now would they? That'd make no sense at all. To what purpose would she cover
it. 'e's seen it 'fore. Besides,
ye know Manouche. Do ye think for a minute she'd do such? I didna think
of keepin' the letter. It were them pictures 'e were all but droolin' o'er.
*Bites her lip* I mean they was
... what do ye call it ... discriminatin' .........
Ichy: You are inventing every excuse for him, Kat. There's
no way knowing how people behave. Passion makes people do foolish things. Once more I have to tell you - there is no way you can fake a photo like this. It just can't be done. And even if you
believe these are fakes, they do tell a tale for one who has eyes to see. And
you did see his reaction to these photos? You don't have to tell me more. I can guess. Any decent man would turn
away from these with anger and disgust. He didn't, as I assume. *he turns the stack of photos upside down* But I know you too
well to try to make you open your eyes finally. *he stoops to pick up a small
thread from the carpet* I am not an Inspector. I
am just a Constable. And this is not exactly Bournemouth House. I understand as much. *he pushes aside his glass, but slowly
enough not to spill anything on the starched white cloth covering the table.* But
even if you regard me with such contempt, I am ready to help you. I can start
to investigate this, if you want to.
Kat *Angrily* I
invent nothin'!! *Turning away from him, and when she turns back … *
Kidd *Grabs him by the lapels dragging him close. Kisses him passionately then draws back* Ye may call Kat a
fool, Ichabod Crane, but darst ye call me one as well??? I say them pictures
be fake and there be those that know 'xactly 'ow te do it!!! 'ave a care, luv.
No one calls me fool. Not e'en ye!!
Savvy??? Abby may well be far
fro' perfect, but 'e do be 'onorable. Much as I 'ate admittin' it.
Ichy *stunned,
unable to reply for a while, feeling faint* No, you were never a fool, Kidd …
So, if they are a fake, why does Kat worry about them? Why doesn't she just
destroy them and let the matter be? Now the letter, that's completely a different
thing. I can investigate into it. *moves closer to Kidd again, regains
his composure* But I am honest, too. I
don't want Kat to be hurt again. I don't trust Abberline. He may not be involved in anything he is accused of, but everyone knows where he is less honest. Except Kat, it seems.
Kidd: There's none that says yer not. Consider this, them pictures
be the only proof of 'ow far someone be willin' te go te destroy Abberline. What makes ye think they'd stop at this, eh? Who can say what route they be takin' next.
Them kids may well be in 'arms way. What befalls Abberline affects them
to some degree at the least. Ichy luv, a mother will do what she must te protect
'er young. E'en iffen she be called pirate, savvy?? What befalls Abberline affects them.
At DeMarco's Center:
Ava: George
darling I feel better now at least he can’t take this away from us he can try but he aint going to get it with out a
fight. He aint getting custody of the children either no way on this is he having them. George will you help me get them back
he isn’t going any where near my children again. George I am also going to ask for a divorce from him and we will be
free from him for good. George im going to convert the upstairs into a birth centre that’s what I want to do I want
to help women have babies.
George: I
will be here for you Ava all the way *he was hoping that Ava would mention who is the daddy but she didn’t. George decides
it’s not wise to push Ava into telling him if he is or not. Ava seemed uncomfortable when he asked the first time around.
* Through thick and thin.
Ava: Thank you George I
know I keep saying this but I truly love you *She wraps her arms around him and listens to his heart beat again* George what
do you want from life?
George: I love you too.
What do I want from life; I want to share my life with the girl I love I wouldn’t mind having a family with her that’s
is if she wants me too. What else do I want I want to be happy but I know I have these now my life is complete.
Ava: That’s pretty
simple George but it’s beautiful.
George: Not as beautiful
as you.
Ava: George Im so luckily
to have found you *they both stand holding each other for a short period of time*
George: So where is everything
going?
Ava: Well upstairs is going
to be the birthing centre the basement is going to be our therapy centre and this floor is going to be the shop. I think that’s
the best way the stairs will encourage the labour on it will let gravity kick in. The basement will be lit with candles for
a relaxing atmosphere and the shop floor will be lit by natural light.
George: I see you have
thought of this for a long time.
Ava: Yeah you can say that
*Ava doesn’t admit that it just came into her head as she was speaking* we will knock some walls down and replace them
with glass and knock the dividing walls down so its one big open space. I want to make the birthing centre as homely as I
can make it George it’s the best way I don’t want to make it like a hospital I don’t want to frighten the
mothers off.
George: I see Ava why don’t
we go home and we can talk about it some more there and we can ring the builders to start the work. Ava can I ask you a question?
Ava: sure George.
George: * thinks of how
he can phrase this question* Ava who are your friends I just want to know?
Ava: My friends *Ava thinks
she wont be the most popular person* Well there is Manouche and Blake but maybe they don’t want to be my friend now
because of what I did. There is Ichy but I don’t know where he is *thinks* there is the Wonka’s too but that’s
about it. But I do have a best friend.
George: You do? who is
that person?
Ava: It’s you George
why do you ask about my friends.
George: Ah all in good
time.
Ava: I see. *she and George
lock up the shop and put the shutters down and they start head home. Ava puts her hand in her pocket and feels an envelope
she wrote the letter for Ichy. She stops dead in her tracks and sighs; she can feel he is home. Ava no longer wants to collect
her stuff, she just wants to post her letter.*
George: What's
wrong?
Ava: Nothing he's home
he's angry I need to post this letter.
George: what about your
stuff?
Ava: Another day George
*her eyes are still closed* at me he has company oh he isn't going to like this at all *Ava opens her eyes and holds the letter
it feels hot. Ava never sealed the letter she opens it and the words have changed they say what she feels.*
George: Company at me who's
not going to like this?
Ava: Nothing George.
George: you know what we
are going to collect your stuff if he has any thing to say I will bruise that pale face of his. *he takes Ava to Ichy's house and knocks on the door.*
At From
Hell Court
Donnie *hears the gun-shot and automatically assumes that something horrible has happened. He starts
running towards the Serpent’s Claw and just as he’s rounding a corner bumps into a young woman heading in the
same direction.*
Isabella *annoyed* Look where you’re going!
Donnie: Sorry, miss. But
I could say the same to you; you’re walking towards a possible riot.
Isabella: Well, at least I’m not running towards it! Besides, my apartment building is right down
the street; I kind of need to go that way. What’s your excuse?
Donnie *impatiently* I’m a Security Officer and two of my colleagues
might be trapped in the crowd. If you absolutely have to go this way, at least stay behind me.
Isabella *sarcastically* Yeah, ‘cause in this part of town I’ll
be definitely be a lot safer with an officer; they are oh so popular here! *Turns
serious* Look, I live here. The
people know me; I’m probably safer than you.
Donnie *sighs* Will you just please do as I tell you? Do you never do
what people tell you to do?
Isabella *smiles a little* Considering how many times I’ve heard
that question, I’d have to say no. *Rolls her eyes; with a slightly mocking
tone* Fine, Mr. Officer, I’ll stay behind you.
Donnie: Thank you. *Cautiously
walks towards the Serpent’s Claw with Isabella following him; a bit friendlier* And
it’s Mr. Brasco.
Isabella: Oh, Grace’s husband. She
helped a fri… an acquaintance of mine recently, Sheldon Sands.
Donnie: Then you must be Isabella Martin…
Isabella: Yes, I must be … *They continue moving closer to the den
and the crowd of people; Donnie trying to see Hanson and Abberline.*
Hanson *rushes towards
Donnie* I don't know what to do, they are getting more and more threatening! *The crowd has thickened around Abberline and the bar owner, they are barely visible
beyond the mob, but Abberline's voice can be heard*
Abberline *to the den owner*
I can have your place closed down and you yourself thrown to lockup. Take
your words back.
A man from the crowd: Better do it now, Inspector, as
long as you can!
A woman *shouts* He took my money! All my money! He threatened to beat me up!
Abberline
*spinning around* Who was it? That's
a damn lie! Step in view if you dare!
The bar owner: She'd better stay where she is unless she wants to get beaten again by you ...
Abberline: I have never beaten a woman. But I have beaten many men.
Maryann: That's right! Go and tell them what happened
at the warehouses! Tell them, Inspector, how brave you were when you shot two
defenseless men tied in chairs! They need to know about it.
Abberline *instead of a reply, pales, and looks unsure for the first time*
Hanson *desperately* What are we going to do? There's too many
of them!
Donnie *thinks for a moment; the crowds is very angry – they might even be thankful that other officers show
up to arrest Abberline … on the other hand, they might think that it’s a trick to get Abberline out. Unfortunately, with the number of people and the number of officers, their options are limited. Looks at Hanson* OK, just follow my lead and have your gun
ready if it becomes necessary. *As Hanson look at him quizzically* We are going to arrest Abberline. *Looks at Isabella* I’ve heard rumours about you … word is that you’re pretty good at
handling yourself … and a weapon. We could use an extra hand.
Isabella *a little doubtful* Oh … I should warn you, I’m also
really good at getting myself into trouble and making bad situations worse.
Donnie *shrugs* We’re taking a chance as it is … *pulls out
an extra gun and hands it to her* Only fire if absolutely needed.
Isabella *Nods* Got it. *Smiles
a little as she pulls out the Glock she’s been carrying since her article was published* But I’ll use my own.
Donnie *frowns* I really should ask you if you have a permit for that.
But we can do that later. *Puts
away the extra gun and takes the one he usually uses; looks at Hanson and Isabella* You
ready? *They both nod* Alright,
let’s do this. *Walks towards the crowd followed by Hanson and Isabella;
in a loud and firm voice to the crowd* Has anyone seen Mr. Frederick Abberline?
We’re here to bring him in for questioning at the station. *The crowd
falls first silent, then a path is opened for Donnie and Isabella. Hanson follows
them, trying to look as grim and big as possible*
The bar owner *smirks to Abberline, hearing Donnie's voice* Over here,
Officer. Seems that yer precious pals know a thin' about ye too ... *a man standing
nearby suddenly leaps to them, pushes Abberline right into the crowd; Abberline stumbles, but hands raise him up immediately,
and someone twists his arm behind his back; it's the same wrist he broke earlier in Marchand's cellar, and he winces of pain
and stifles a groan, biting his teeth*
Abberline: Bloody hell, you idiots!
*he fights to get free, but the man twists his arm a little more* Brasco? Hanson? What
the hell is this about?
*The man twisting Abberline’s arm leads him over to Donnie* ’Ere
ye are, Officer. Hope you lock him fer a long, long time.
Donnie *pulls out a set of handcuffs and puts them on Abberline* You are
under arrest for the suspicion of taking bribes, violence against a citizen of Deppville, and we have reason to believe that
you’ve been under the influence of drugs while on duty for Security. *In
a low voice so the rest of the crowd doesn’t hear it* I’m still hoping
all of this is wrong, but I must tell you that the evidence against you tells a different story. *Louder* Come on, Hanson. *To
Isabella* Appreciate the assistance.
Isabella *A little surprised by the scene; although she’s not particularly fond of Abberline, he always struck
her has being honourable.* Yeah, sure.
*Donnie, followed by Hanson, leads Abberline to his car; puts him in the backseat and take off to the Security office
for questioning*
At the Wonkas’ factory:
LeRoi *smiles warmly at Willy and Madame, who stand before him dressed in comfortable clothes, in one of the factory’s
exercise rooms; a large, open room with mirrors and gleaming wooden floors* Now,
let’s get started, shall we? I’d like to start by saying, please
don’t feel your issues are insurmountable. Believe me, I’ve seen
much harder cases come through with shining colours. I’m sure we can get
to the root of your problems in no time at all. *he gestures around the room* I chose this room for our initial exercises because you can learn a great deal about
yourself by watching your expressions as you respond to outer stimuli. So as
we progress, note how you look as you process various thoughts, feelings, whatever they may be. Manouche told me you both possess a great deal of courage. Now
it’s time to turn that courage inward, and bravely face your difficulties before they become more difficult to cope
with. *he brings his hands up, almost as if conducting an orchestra* Right … I want you to both take several very deep breaths, inhale through the nose, exhale though
the mouth. As you breathe, relax … start with the very top of your head,
think about relaxing every part of your body on down to your toes. Take your
time, become aware … *he watches them as they follow his instructions. After
a brief time, when they seem to reach the end of the exercise, and they both look quite relaxed, he says quickly* Now, please respond to what I’m about to say, first Madame, then Willy, with the very first thing
that pops into your head – and watch yourselves in the mirror. *clears
his throat, speaks in a higher voice, as if trying to sound younger* Mom, Dad,
I’m sorry … I’ve totalled your favourite car! *he watches them
carefully*
Willy *face goes white as
a ghost, but his eyes turn into a mean glare* WHAT?! YOU DID WHAT?!
Madame *eyes change to a
blood red* WHAT THE HELL WERE YOU DOING WITH IT?! ARE YOU THAT IRRESPONSIBLE?!
LeRoi *quickly points at a mirror* There!
Look at yourselves! Now think about it all, stop and think … of
course it’s a terrible thing if a car is ruined. But consider this, and
don’t worry if you can’t answer the question right away: Why is your
very first reaction rage about the car instead of asking the child if he or she is all right?
Madame *quickly settles as
she sees her eyes in the mirror. They quickly turn back to her normal vibrant
blue color.*
Willy *continues to be annoyed*
Because it's my CAR!!!!!!!!!!!!
Madame: But it's our child ... what matters more?
Willy: If he hadn't been driving it in the first place, he wouldn't have placed himself in any danger!
LeRoi: All right, that’s very good, all good comments. Situations
such as these can happen anytime, to anyone. Even children eventually become
old enough to borrow cars, and to drive legally. A very interesting point here
is that you both immediately jumped to the conclusion that your child was being disobedient.
Your child could very well have simply been borrowing the car with permission from one or both of you. The accident could’ve been entirely the fault of the other driver.
There’s nothing wrong with anger, if it’s properly directed. And
that’s why we’re here, to help you both remember how important it is to have all the facts before you fly off
the handle. Then your children will grow up knowing that you have faith in them,
that you’ll always be ready to give them the benefit of the doubt, and then they’ll be much more likely to come
to you with their problems and keep an open dialogue going steadily. *pauses* Try to remember your own childhood times, remember how it felt, and think how important
it is for youngsters to know they can take their problems to a grown-up who will understand.
Remember, we’re all human … *grins* I’m sure you both
did foolish things when you were children.
Willy:
I've never brought my problems to an adult. I
was never around any adults. Or any person, for that matter. So, I think
the children should know better on their own. I did and I turned out just fine.
Madame:
I've had my stupid moments ... like that one time when I was too little to make
iced tea, but I tried anyway. I ended up pouring half a canister into the pitcher. Then added water and thought
everything was normal. My father coughed for the rest of the night. *grins
as she recalls the images* He had it coming, though.
LeRoi *laughs
at Madame’s story, shakes his head* I bet you were quite a little girl! *looks at Willy, arches a brow* You turned
out just fine, eh? Let’s look at your recent patterns, Willy. In less than a year’s time, you’ve endangered your family – your entire factory, your
livelihood – to a nemesis from your college days, you’ve gone chasing after an old girlfriend and had a night
with her, and both of these situations wound up with two people dead. That second
situation, in particular … what caused it in the first place? Misplaced
anger, first at your sister, then Madame. Taking things out on loved ones who
did nothing to deserve such treatment. Also, you’ve only recently begun
speaking to your father again, and that’s largely because Madame has helped you immensely, and worked to bridge the
gap between you and your father. You’ve repeatedly gotten yourself in scrapes,
and it always winds up the same … you begging Madame to forgive you, and a big speech about how things will be different
from now on. And now, this latest … the pictures of you in the paper, putting
you in a very bad light, damaging your reputation. This could have far-reaching
effects on your business, your interactions with other members of the community ... not to mention your children. But yes, you turned out just fine. *smirks* Must’ve been wonderful to have been born with all the answers.
*pauses* Just for the sake of argument, let’s say you’re perfectly
happy with yourself, and your memories of your childhood. Don’t you want
things to be even better for your children than they were for you? Are you sound with little Cole saying he wants a
black eye, like Daddy's?
Willy
*raises his hand, goes to say something, then drops it, speechless*
Madame: That was fantabulous.
LeRoi *shrugs,
looks at Willy sympathetically* It’s easy to lose sight of things that
matter as time goes on. It’s also probably easy for you to forget what
a public figure you are. Manouche told me some things about you, but I already
knew a lot of it from the papers, or the news. Between your business *waves a
hand around the room, indicating the factory* and your beautiful family, it would be a shame to put anything at risk because
of something that’s easily controlled. Anger is a useful emotion, and a
powerful one. I don’t believe in teaching anyone to bury their anger, just
direct it properly. *pauses* Oh,
Manouche asked me to remind you of one incident, in case the other things I mention don’t make an impression on you. She said to remind you of the time you first went after the man called Nate? He was very dangerous, you had borrowed Manouche’s pistol … you had him,
you were preparing to kill him … *glances at Madame* Then Madame showed
up on the scene, she’d been ill, you thought she was resting at home. She
talked you out of killing him, no shouting, no threats, just five little words. She
said ‘You are not a murderer.’ You listened to her, and you instead
brought the man back into town, where he was locked up. Anyway … Manouche
wanted you to remember how you felt at that moment, when Madame appealed to your better nature, telling you … you
are not a murderer. *he watches Willy’s face carefully as he remembers
everything*
At Rartigillichal:
Manouche *laughing
as Blake manages to fling the door of the house open while carrying her in his arms*
By th’ powers, William Blake, ye don’t ‘ave t’ carry me o’er th’ bloody threshold! It ain’t our honeymoon, now, is it?
Blake *kisses
her* Close enough. *he brings her
inside, kicks the door shut with his foot, kisses her again, smiles* Honey, sometimes
you do have the best ideas.
Manouche *shrugs* Timin’ is everythin’, innit? I
figured we’d best make an escape while it were quiet fer a time. All’s
well at la Maison de Paradis, Willy an’ Madame are in good hands with th’ bloke who’s helpin’ ‘em,
an’ as far as I know, things are quiet at Bournemouth House. So it seemed
th’ opportune moment to run off. *smiles dreamily* That Libertine Trailer, she’s yar, an’ that’s a fact.
Blake: The trip was perfect. *he reluctantly
sets her down, kisses her once more* How ‘bout a drink?
Manouche *nods,
watches him go over to the buffet to pour rum or brandy, then stops him* Wait,
love … can we make it champagne? There’s some in th’ refrigerator,
an’ … I reckon I ain’t ready t’ stop honeymoonin’ jus’ yet.
Blake *smiles* My pleasure. *he goes to the kitchen*
Manouche *smiles,
sighs happily, walks through the room, opening windows, taking deep breaths of the fresh air wafting through. Then she notices the blinking light on the answering machine. She
presses the button, hears Donnie’s voice*
Manouche, hi, it’s Donnie.
I’m back with Security and Portsmith assigned me to investigate Abberline.
I really need a word with you, so call me when you get this message. Thanks.
Manouche *frowns* Investigate Abberline?? Blimey …
*she looks up as Blake enters the room, carrying two glasses; she takes one from him, taps it against his* Salut. *they both sip, then she nods toward the phone* We ‘ave a message. *she plays it
back for him*
Blake *listens,
then looks at her, smiles slightly* I guess the honeymoon’s over after
all.
Manouche *grins*
Interrupted, love. It’s ne’er
over. *she quickly drains her glass, sets it on the table next to the phone* I’ll be back fer another one o’ these as soon as possible.
Blake *raises
eyebrows* You’re not gonna call first?
Manouche *shakes
her head* If th’ Commander has Donnie investigatin’ Fred, there prob’ly
ain’t much time t’ waste, savvy? Normally, I wouldn’t go dashin’
fer th’ Security office, given me relationship with th’ law. But
… Donnie’s a mate. He won’t let anything ‘appen to me. *she kisses Blake* I’ll be back
before ye know it.
Blake *picks
up the phone* I’m calling a cab for you.
That way, I’ll have the car when I need to come after you.
Manouche *eyes
wide* Why, whatcha sayin’? It
ain’t like I get in trouble every time I leave th’ bloody house!
Blake *smirks* Just humor me, honey. *he orders a taxi,
hangs up the phone, pours a little of his champagne into her glass, holds it up to her*
Here, a little more for the road.
Manouche *takes the glass, smiles* Deux coeurs, une âme …
Blake *finishes*
… notre monde. *they drink, moments later they hear a horn outside* Damn, that was a little faster than I’d hoped.
*he takes her glass, sets both glasses on the table, walks her to the door* C’mon.
Looks like it’s back to business as usual for you, my beautiful pirate.
Manouche *kisses
him* I’ll hurry back, love. *she
leaves the house, climbs into the back seat of the cab, directs him to the Security office; waves at Blake as DeNiro drives
away*
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