DEPP SHADOWS 3
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Might I enquire as to how you came by these?

Being where Donnie rejoins the police force and works with Hanson on the investigation of Abberline ... Isabella continues to recover from her breakup with Sands … Kaatje realizes she can’t trust the father of her baby, that she must turn to Marijke and Roux for assist … George and Ava go on a sexy shopping spree … Donnie finds more incriminating evidence against Abberline … Maryann, impatient with Don Juan’s personal agenda, decides to take her vengeance into her own hands … Grace checks herself out of the hospital much sooner than she should have, to keep her promise to Sands … Hanson goes to From Hell Court and finds himself spying on Abberline … Kaatje heads to the hospital to have her baby … Abberline grows suspicious as he finds his drink doctored and a sullen crowd gathering … and Kat talks to Crane about what he may or may not know about possible corruption in the Security system.

 

At the Security office:

 

Donnie *enters the familiar building; walks past the front desk to the offices and finds Hanson’s office.  He knocks and sticks his head in*  ‘Morning Hanson.  *Enters the office and sits down in the chair opposite Hanson*  I don’t know if you’ve heard from Portsmith, but well, I’m back.  She told me that we’re to work together on your case.  If you bring me up to speed, we can get to work straight away.  Oh and I don’t have a desk yet, so I guess we’ll be sharing for a while.  Hope that’s OK with you.

 

Hanson *nods eagerly and pushes the folder over to Donnie*  Yep, she called me, and I think it's fine.  It's just fine.  *he watches closely how Donnie opens the folder and sees the picture where Abberline is watching how a woman gets beaten up by two thugs, he's just smoking and looking on with a thoughtful expression*  Oh, and she said that you might want to use Inspector Abberline's office ... *he swallows*  I think we do have a problem.  I am glad that I am not alone with this.  I really am.

 

Donnie *frowns as he looks at one incriminating photo after another; closes the file slowly*  It doesn’t look good for Abberline … *looks at Hanson*  OK, we’ll need statements from the den-owners in From Hell Court.  If this is true, then they must have seen something.  It would be really good if we can find the woman in the picture and hear if she saw Abberline at all.  She probably wasn’t paying much attention to the surroundings, but it’s worth a shot.  We’ll need to show Abberline the photos and get a statement from him as well.  But first of all, we’ll need to verify that the photos are authentic.  Did Portsmith mention where they came from and who might have taken them?

 

Hanson:  Yes, yes, you are right, we will begin with the den owners!  And the woman.  Er .. I don't think it would be very wise to ask anything yet of the Inspector.  You know him better than I do, but I suspect he wouldn't react well to this stuff ... She didn't tell anything about the photos, she said that Abberline has been under surveillance for a while, because she doesn't trust him anymore because of the connections he has with pi...  Excuse me.  I didn't mean anything.  It was she who mentioned the pirates.  *he takes one of the photos of Abberline in a den*  But everybody knows that he's been on the drugs.  At least that is true, so why not everything else.  These are no fakes, you can see it at once.  But this makes me nervous ... How do you verify the photos? And what do you say about the other files, those testimonies and all that ...

 

Donnie *mutters*  I bet she did … *frowns*  I thought he cleaned himself up?  I talked to him recently, he didn’t seem like he was on drugs.  *Thinks for a moment*  If I went and asked him about that, he’d probably kick me out, but I think I know who to ask.  Someone who’ll tell the truth and is on our side - *glares at Hanson*  Meaning Abberline’s side.  As far as I’m concerned, the point of this investigation is to clear him of all charges or suspicions.  Hope you’re on board with that.  *Firmly*  And I decide what to put in the official reports; you just stay clear of that.  *Smiles a little*  Well, you take the photos to someone who knows more about it than we do.  They do look real, but a lot can be done with a computer these days and we need to be absolutely sure.  Even if the pictures did come from the high commander.  *Lowers his voice*  I wouldn’t put it past her if she’d arranged the whole thing to get at him … she’s had a grudge against him since he married Kat.  *Skims through a few testimonies*  You’d be surprised what people will testify for the right price.  *Looks at Hanson*  Put on civilian clothes, preferably something not too neat, mess up your hair a bit and go to From Hell Court and talk to the den-owners.  You can’t walk in there in a uniform, they’ll shut up like clams.  Meanwhile, I’ll go talk to someone who knows Abberline possibly better than Abberline himself.

 

At Sarah’s Books:

 

Sarah *sits in an armchair reading a book with a soft pink cover with the words “Your Baby – From Conception to Birth”.  Once in a while she lifts her eyes from the book and glances at Isabella, who’s putting price-tags on a selection of books going on sale.  She hates knowing that her sister is sad and that she can’t think of anything that’ll cheer her up*

 

Isabella *suddenly stops what she’s doing, turns and looks at Sarah*  Stop looking at me like I lost my damn dog!  *Adds as Sarah is about to say something*  And for 117th time, I’m fine!

 

Sarah *quietly*  So you keep telling me …. you know, it would be OK to not be fine.  After all, you didn’t just break up with a boyfriend; you were friends before you began dating.  *When Isabella shoots her a look; quietly*  I’m just saying …

 

Isabella *sighs*  Alright, yes, I’m sad.  Of course I am.  Breaking up sucks big time, but I can’t just crawl into a black hole and grieve.  Everyone deals with this sort of thing differently … I’ve had a good cry about it and now I intend to move on.  So quit asking how I am, OK?

 

Sarah:  OK …

 

Isabella *muttering*  Of course it would be easier if he didn’t feel the need to call me in the middle of the night.

 

Sarah *surprised*  He called?

 

Isabella *nods*  Yeah … I didn’t answer, I just let the machine get it.  He left a message saying he wanted to talk to me.  *Lowers her eyes*  But even if he just wants us to be friends again, I’m not quite ready to talk to him.  *Looks up again*  Besides, he sounded drunk.  You know how people get the idea to call their ex when drunk.

 

Sarah *laughs*  Oh yeah, remember that summer after high school when you decided to serenade Joey at 3:00 a.m. and his mom called the cops?  That was so funny!

 

Isabella *glares at her*  Yes, I remember … *smiles*  But in her defense, it probably did sound horrible.

 

Sarah *laughs*  Dogs started barking! 

 

At the beach:

 

*They found shelter in an abandoned shed near the beach.  The roof was leaking and the wind shaked it, but they were safe now.*

Kaatje *reproachfully*  So ... you finally received my note.

Man *bitter*  You have no idea how life's been treating me recently.

Kaatje *sarcastic*  No ... and then this woman starts nagging about fatherhood.  Life's a bitch, isn't it?  Well, I am NOT, and I feel very disappointed you used me as a bitch, and left me with offspring!  You told me you loved me!  Women take it serious when a man says that he loves her and want to marry her and raise a family, you know?

Man:  Did I say that?  *His surprise seems real*

Kaatje:  Word by word.  And then you disappeared.  I tried to call you, but you changed your number.  Or lost your phone, perhaps ... Not the first time, eh?

Man:  Both.  *the voice friendly, which seemed to trigger Kaatje's anger*

Kaatje:  I want you to take full responsibility!  It takes two to tango, you know!

Man:  Yes, I know, honeybun.  Man ... and woman!

Kaatje:  What are you trying to say?  I thought you loved me, I thought you wanted to marry me and have a child with me!"

Man *laughing*  Ha ha ha!!!  Come on, little Dutch cheesegirl!  You have a reputation, I know you weren't exactly a virgin when I met you!  Now something went wrong and now you put the blame on me?  No way!

Kaatje *crying bitter tears*  I was so wrong!  How could I be so wrong!  I thought you were the perfect man for me...

Man:  Well ... I heard THAT before!  *he still didn't raise his voice, but you could almost touch his anger*  Women ... they're all so complicated!  I've had it with women, I think I will become a monk or a Catholic priest!  Does Deppville have a convent?  Maybe I will start one.  Makes life less complicated.


Kaatje *sobbing*  I go now.

Man:  That's okay, you give me a headache.

Kaatje:  That's because you're drunk!  Again!  Just like the day I conceived the baby ... Our baby!  I was a fool to believe you when you promised me heaven!  A relationship with you was wrong.  I don't want to think about that that anymore.  You and me, we have no future.  But this child I am bearing also needs a father to take care of it.  And if that father doesn't take care voluntarily, maybe a father test might help?  You must learn to live with the consequences of the choices you made!  And if you don't want that, I know other ways to get my way!  Now, I go, and if you change your mind and want to speak me, I am in Chez Roux!  And if you won't, I will ask for a DNA test!  *stands up, runs from the old shed, leaving the man there.  It was still raining, but the thunder was in a distance again.  She runs as fast as possible, back to Chez Roux.  All she needed now was a shower and a warm bed.  Tomorrow she'll talk to Marijke and share her secret with her ... Maybe she can help her*

 

At Vickie’s / Grapes:

 

Ava *enters Vickie’s dirty little secrets and looks around the rails picking up something nice for George. She starts to think what he likes it takes a while to remember but she finally does and she becomes a woman on a mission.*

 

Assistant: Can I help you *she looks at Ava and realizes that she is Don Juan wife*  Ah something for Mr. deMarco I see.

 

Ava: No we are no longer together it’s for my boyfriend.

 

Assistant: I'm very sorry. *rather embarrassed she walks away*

 

Ava: *seeing a little black number out of the corner of her eyes decides that’s going to be the one. Ava picks her size up and heads to the counter to buy it she smiles at the assistant to make her feel less embarrassed * Ah it’s ok love you don’t need to be embarrassed I'm happy now  *Ava hands over the money* Thank you *takes the bag and walks out the door*  Goodbye.  *With a smile on her face, walks to Gilbert’s and enters the shop. 

 

George *having entered Grapes Grocery, grabbed a shopping cart and heads up and down the aisles. Puts in what he believes are the most important things in first. George picks up Ice cream, whipped cream strawberries and chocolate sauce he smiles as he puts each item in the cart. He then heads towards the non-essential aisles bread, milk, coffee, tea, soda, fresh vegetables and other types of food to eat. Fills the cart to the maximum and heads to the counter.*

 

Gilbert: *shocked*  Well George I'm shocked this isn’t the usual is it.

 

George: no its not could I take the strawberries ice cream whipped cream and chocolate sauce with me now and the rest you can deliver.

 

Gilbert: Ah George has a girl does he?

 

George: *smiles* I may have if I don’t answer you know where the keys are.

 

Gilbert: Yes I do who is the lucky lady then and where is she.

 

Arnie: *Interrupting* George has a girl friend George has a girl friend.

 

Gilbert: he might how about you be a big boy and label the beans for me.

 

George: She is shopping at the moment *smiles*

 

Gilbert: Vickie’s no man smiles like that when she is just shopping my friend  *George hands over the money* who is she.

 

George: Ah that’s a secret Gilbert we have just starting out *George looks up as Ava enter the shop with a goodie bag from Vickie’s he smiles knowing what he is in for. Gilbert turns around as the bell chimes and he looks at George. * Ah is this her George. *He turns to Ava and says hello to her to see what her answer is* Hello Mrs deMarco

 

Ava: Hey Gilbert sadly I'm no longer Mrs DeMarco, I'm Ava Le Fay now please call me Ava *Ava walks over to Arnie* Hey Arnie.

 

Arnie: Hi, George has a girlfriend *Ava blushes*

 

Gilbert: *whispers to George* Ah so it is her *shouts over to Ava* Ava is it the usual.

 

Ava *walks over to Gilbert* No Gilbert I believe my shopping has been done im here for George.

 

Gilbert: Ah I see well Ava I shall not keep you waiting *turns to George* well George don’t keep her waiting here is the bag you wanted have fun.

 

George: I will.  *Gilbert laughs.  George and Ava walk out of Gilbert's Grocery hand in hand.*

 

At the Security office:

 

Hanson *to Donnie*  But shouldn't we be objective?  Why would the Commander launch such a big investigation on Inspector Abberline all of a sudden?  And haven't you heard the rumours flying around everywhere ... I just want to say that we can't make a stand for him, maybe he's been corrupted by ... *he starts to stammer, blushes and stops, in time not to mention a pirate wife to Donnie*  I will start then, with your permission, with the den owners.  Who are you going to see?

 

Donnie *takes a deep breath to keep him from decking Hanson*  Do you honestly believe that the Commander is objective?  About anything?  Rumours aren’t always true and it’s our job to find out if that’s the case here, savvy?  I am going to see Manouche Blake … and yes, that is also a pirate.  *Sarcastically*  But oh wait, maybe she’ll corrupt me if my wife hasn’t already!  *Turns serious again*  You need to understand that there’s a lot more to pirates than pirating … they’re people too and you can’t judge them all as one.  Yes, do please go away before you insult my wife and her friends any further. 

 

Hanson *frightened by his reaction, rises up*  I didn't mean anything.  I don't hate pirates, I just don't know any of them well.  I am sorry if I offended you.  I - I am trying to be objective in my work.  Sergeant Godley said that it is of utmost importance.  Manouche?  *he nods, and almost salutes*  I will conduct an investigation and prepare a report!  *he turns and flees out of the room, shaking his head.  The first meeting did not go well, but he hopes he will placate Donnie later by performing his duties as good as he can*

 

Donnie *smirks a little as Hanson flees the office.  He then goes into Abberline’s office; he doesn’t feel quite right about it, but decides that it is in Abberline’s best interest as he begins going through the drawers and the few stacks of paper lying on the desk.  He almost breathes a sigh of relief when he doesn’t find anything incriminating.  Even though he still considers it to be Abberline’s office, he takes a seat by the desk and starts making phone calls – he calls Rartigillichal to have a word with Manouche, but there’s no answer so he leaves a message*  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.  *He disconnects the call, dials another number and makes an appointment with the owner of the Deppville Photoshop for the following day.  After hanging up, he goes out to the hall and fetches a cop of coffee.  Back in the office he sits down by the desk and goes through the photos and testimonies more thoroughly than he did with Hanson.  Wanting to take notes of the photographs and the testimonies, looks around for a note-pad and a pen.  He quickly finds a pen and then remembers seeing an A4 pad in one of the drawers, but as he tries to open the bottom drawer of the desk, it’s stuck.  He rises from the chair and gives the drawer a hard pull and as a result it falls out of the desk and the contents spills out on the floor.  He begins picking up the mess while muttering something incomprehensible, and then suddenly stops.  He kneels down and picks up a bottle; reads the label with a frown.  Absinthe.  He glances out in the hall to see if anyone’s there, but he seems to be the only one at the office, so he places the bottle on the desk his eyes returning to a small brown-paper package lying on the floor.  He slowly unwraps the paper already knowing what he’s going to find.  Opium.  He sighs heavily as he discovers that he’s right.  For a moment he considers hiding both the package and the bottle – after all, they could’ve been there for a long time and simply be from before Abberline cleaned up his act.  But as much as he wants to believe that Abberline is innocent, he can’t ignore evidence.  He checks his wrist-watch.  Almost time to go talk to the guy at the photo-shop.  He places the bottle and package in a bag as well as the photos planning to confront Abberline after verifying the photos.  He puts on his jacket and heads out towards Deppville Photoshop.*

 

At Chez Roux:

 

George: You hungry it’s lunchtime I'm starving.

 

Ava: I sure am George

 

George: Why don’t we go to Chez Roux we could call it our first date

 

Ava: George your too cute yes our first date lunch at Chez Roux

 

George and Ava start to walk to Chez Roux they both walk slowly to Chez Roux the want to spend this time to themselves enjoying each other’s company. George wraps his arm around her waist putting his hand in Ava’s back pocket, which makes Ava smile. People look at George and Ava but they don’t care they are happy and that’s all that matters. To them they are the only people in the world Ava knows if any one were to bother her George would protect her. They arrive at Chez Roux and the waitress takes them to a booth. Ava is sure she can hear a familiar voice it sounds like Godley so she hides behind George so no one can see her just in case. The waitress asks them a question.

 

Waitress: Closed or open booth

 

George: open

 

Ava: closed

 

George: *the waitress looks confused* Closed it is. *They both sit down in the both and the close the door* why are closed door Ava I thought that you weren’t ashamed of us being together.

 

Ava: I am not ashamed of us being together *she takes Georges hands* it is just that I thought I heard a familiar voice George Godley’s to be exact.

 

George: Have you done something wrong Ava?

 

Ava: I haven’t done anything-bad George

 

George: Ok whenever you are ready to talk about it I will be here for you.

 

Waitress: *listening to there conversation she knocks on the door* Ready to order

 

George: yes *he hands Ava a menu* Oh I’m going to have the Twenty-four hours braised pork belly with confit shallots, lemon, black olives and crushed potatoes how about you.

 

Ava: umm I will have the Roast label Anglaise chicken breast with creamed potatoes, baby spinach and a truffle sauce.*Ava hands her the menus over* Thank you.

 

George: Well Ava what’s in the Vickie's bag then *purrs*

 

Ava: *slipping her heels off* All in good time George *She runs her foot up his inner right leg and winks* all in good time.

 

George: Ah I see well then Ava Le Fay I cant wait  *George turns serious* babe there is some thing I need to ask you it’s been bothering me for some time now.

 

Ava: What is it George.

 

George: Sam and Lola

 

Ava: What about them

 

George: Are they mine.

 

Ava: * she is a little set back by his question she tries to dodge the question* darling not here ok not here.

 

George: Im sorry babe *feeling gulity for asking her* I should have thought

 

Ava: George do not feel gulity I just don’t feel comfortable about talking about it here there are too many ears listening. *Ava leans over and kisses him*

 

George: yes babe your right they all ready know to much about us.  *The food arrives Ava hasn't seem that amount of food in a long time it doesn't take her that long to eat all. George can not believe his eyes her plate is empty.*  When you said you were hungry you meant it.

 

Ava: Sure did.

 

George: *still eating* do you want dessert?

 

Ava: No lets just miss that im full right to the top.

 

George: you sure?

 

Ava: Sure.

 

George: *finish his last scraps off* you wanna go home babe?

 

Ava: yeah but before I need to go to the bathroom ok?

 

George: Sure. I will pay.

 

*After a short period of time Ava remerges from the bath room she is no longer wearing her jeans and t-shirt; she is wearing a pair of heels, her summer coat buttoned near to the top only showing a little bit of cleavage. Ava’s hair is now up so George can see her face George smiles when he see’s her come towards her*

 

Ava: Lets go home tiger *George purrs* 

 

George: Lets *whispers in her ear* what you got on underneath there?

 

Ava: *Ava whispers back and nibbles on his ears* your present.

 

George: *George raises his eyebrow* We must be going now.

 

At the DeMarcos’ house:

 

Don Juan *trimming his mustache and beard with small scissors in front of the mirror*  Maryann.  Do you think I should cut my hair?  Or dye it?  *he stops and gazes intently at himself*  Is that a wrinkle I see!  Ah, that's all her fault, the sly bitch!  I gave up all for her, all the 1,500 women, no, all the women of the world, I gave all my life and love to her - and what did she do?  She wanted to start an affair with a squeaking Constable, may spiders eat him in Hell!  Can you understand her?

Maryann *shakes her head, subdued.*  No.  But she's found a new lover.  He's George Jung.  They say he's been into smuggling and ...

Don Juan *disgusted, throws away the scissors*  George?  That treacherous little brat!  And she says I am crazy.  It is she who has lost her mind!  Have I ever told the story about Don Octavio?  I visited once his villa, si, villa, a very magnificent building.  They guests were weird, and I strongly suspect that some of there were not in their right mind.  But the most weirdest folks were those guests who wore a white coat and played doctors.  They didn't believe that I was Don Juan DeMarco, the World's Greatest Lover, but the ladies in white coats, they knew my identity ... It was only Don Octavio who lived in the real world.  After a while I understood that the rest of them must all be schizophrenic.  What a strange palace it was ...

Maryann *interrupting him, having heard the story more times than she cares to remember*  Are we going to do something today?  My vengeance?  When do I get my vengeance?

Don Juan *puts on his mask*  Of course.  I will be wearing this mask as a reminder of the one and only woman who rejected me and my love, and I won't take it off until I have reclaimed her.  And you, Maryann, be assured, I will help you to get your vengeance on that vile Inspector who pretended to be my friend, but helped my erratic wife instead.  I am ready.  *he takes on his gloves, cape and hat, and they step out on the shady alley walking slowly, planning, as they do every evening.*  Ah, what a beauty ... *he remains to watch a gorgeous blonde with long hair and long legs and an abundant cleavage, and an inviting smile*  Permit, me, senorita, to turn away my eyes from you, lest they be burned by all that beauty that radiates from you.  *he takes her hand*  May I enquire what name the Goddess has chosen today?  Summer?  Never could anyone have found a better name ...

Maryann *sighs.  Yet another evening like all the others since he met the musterious woman he calls Goddess.  And yet one day more to wait.  Then she freezes.  It's Inspector Abberline, walking and smoking in peace, like he didn't destroy her life and commit those atrocious deeds, like he hadn't heard a single rumour of himself ... She watches how he strolls into a bar, and as she is about to follow him, she sees a young man clad in a tattered t-shirt and worn jeans, his hair is ruffled and he has a pink and green bandanna - and he is stalking the Inspector.  He tries to walk nonchalantly to the window and take a sneak peak through the dirty window, pretending to be waiting for someone.  She raises an eyebrow and forgets the great lover ... *

 

At Tropical Breeze:

 

Ava *giggles and George takes her hand they walk pretty fast to Georges place, its not fair from Chez Roux they reach it in no time. George fumbles in his pocket to get the keys. Ava starts to nibble on his neck which makes him fumble more. George finally opens the door he turns around and scoops Ava up and carries her up the stairs to the bedroom.*

 

George: Sorry for the mess and décor.

 

Ava: I aint looking at that *she pushes him on the bed and undoes her coat to reveal his present. Ava takes her clip out and her hair tumbles onto her shoulders*

 

George: *pleased with what he see’s* well .. I ..um

 

Ava: *undressing George* come here tiger *giggles*

 

*It is day break and the sun is shining through the curtains George holds the sleeping Ava in his arms, her head is on his chest and her hand on his heart. Ava looks so angelic when she is sleeping he moves Avas hair out of her face and he kisses her head.*

 

George: *whispers to the sleeping Ava* Ava I know Sam and Lola are mine and I know that you are scared about the consequences that being what your idiotic husband will do. How ever I am here for you. I listened to my heart like you said. I will be waiting here until you want to tell me*Ava starts to stir a little*  I love you *A half wake Ava starts to speak*

 

Ava: I love you too *She raises her head up and kisses him* Thank you George.

 

George: Any time darling *He kisses Ava once more and Ava puts her head back on his chest and listens to his heart beat until she drifts back off*

 

At Chez Roux:

 

*Breakfast was the only moment when Marijke, Roux and Kaatje were alone together.  Roux, who didn't know anything about Kaatje's nightly meeting and Marijke following her, noticed that the two sisters were very quiet.*

 

Roux:  Is there something wrong?  You don't say much ... Had an argument or so?

Marijke:  No.


Kaatje *at the same moment*  Yes.  *the sisters look at each other and giggle*  Yes, we had.  And I want to apologize to Marijke about my behaviour.


Roux:  Shall I eat in the garden and let you to talk this over?


Kaatje:  Oh no!  Listen, I must explain a lot of things to you.  I know you are worried about me and the baby, and wondering who the father is.  And it's time to tell you the whole story.  I was on the beach last night, to think things over.  And then I finally met the father.

Marijke and Roux *look at Kaatje with open mouths, speak at the same time*  Who is it?


Kaatje:  Wait ... before I give his name, I want to tell the whole story.  I think you will be shocked about it ... but I hope, I pray, I beg that you don't judge me too hard.  I've made a bad mistake, and a totally wrong assessment of the man I thought would be the love of my life, and the father of my child.


Roux:  I promise not to judge you, Kaatje.  And so does Marijke.  Don't you, Marijke?  Marijke, look at me, I asked you if you won't judge Kaatje for what has happened.


Marijke *trying to hide her distaste*  Ehm okay, I promise.  *In her opinion, Kaatje brought shame over Chez Roux, and over her, as her sister.  But Roux looked almost straight through her.  How could she not keep her promise for Roux!*

Kaatje:  Well ... It was last year, just before I left Deppville.  I was feeling very bad and upset.  I hadn't done anything wrong, but I noticed I did have a bad reputation, because women who were married or had a relationship avoided me like the plague, and didn't let their men come near me.  I didn't do anything, but it must have been something bad in my aura, or so …


Marijke *sighs*  I remember that.  *Kaatje had been working in the bar of Chez Roux and when she was working, the women were looking to her with a nasty look on their faces.  And not without reason.  Kaatje may not have be aware of it, but her behaviour to men was very flirting ... !*

Kaatje *continues*  Then I met this man.  He just came out of a relationship.  Well, that was what he told me, at this moment I am not so sure of anything he said.  But he understood me!  He said he knew what it was, to be not accepted by other people, to feel like an outcast.  He accepted me the way I was, didn't call me a tramp or so, and we decided to run off together.  I went back to The Netherlands, he had promised me to follow me as soon as possible, and then I found out I was pregnant.


Marijke:  You were in The Netherlands?  Why didn't you let us know!  We were worried sick about you, until you returned!  And when you returned and I found out about your pregnancy, you didn't say a word and I worried even more!


Roux *puts his hand on her mouth*  Please, Marijke, let her finish her story.

 

Kaatje *takes a deep breath*  Well ... I was in The Netherlands, found a job as a waitress, but I was pregnant and I had morning sickness 24/7.  Imagine a waitress who pukes over a plate with baked eggs and bacon in a truck driver restaurant?  I can't blame them for kicking me out!  And then I was on my own.  I lived in a little room that belongs to that restaurant but after I lost my job, I had to leave.  I needed benefits to survive, but without a place to live, an address, I had no rights on benefit.  And I was not very healthy due to the pregnancy, so I got no new job.

Marijke *tears in her eyes*  I am so sorry to hear that.  *lays a hand on Kaatje's shoulder*  You must have such a bad time ... Why didn't you write me or so?

Kaatje:  I was so ashamed ... !  *starts crying*  I was pregnant, and the father had promised to follow me, but seemed to have vanished from the earth.  I was going to be a single mum, with no job, no money and no house.  *Roux gives her a hanky and she blows her nose in it*  Thank you.

Marijke:  But WHO is the father, dear?

Roux *gives Marijke a piercing look*  Not now, Marijke.  Not yet.  Kaatje will tell it to you when the time is ready for it.  First, listen to what she has to say.  The poor woman has had a horrible time!

Kaatje:  Well ... it could have been worse.  *smiles through her tears*  I still had a diamond ring, you know, the one my second husband gave me on our wedding.  I kept it after the divorce because I thought I might need it later.  And my feeling was true.  And thát was the time that I needed that ring!  My short marriage with Willem has been a disaster from the start, and I was very happy when he ran away with his secretary on New Years Eve.  He had a smart lawyer so I had no alimony, but I still had my diamond wedding ring.  And now was the time to use that ring.  I went to several buyers.  Jewelry shops, pawn shops, anything.  And I sold my ring to the highest bidder.  I paid my debts and came straight back to Deppville.

Roux:  A good decision.  And I understand your lover never gave you a sign of life again?  I am so sorry to hear that.

Kaatje *sobs*  No, he didn't.  I had written letters to him, tried to phone him, but after a few weeks he seemed to have disappeared from this world.  When I was back in Deppville, I couldn't get contact with him anymore.  I knew he was around somewhere, but I didn't know where.  I sended notes when I thought I traced his address, but no reply.  Until last night.  I went to the beach, after I had a stupid arguement with Marijke.  And then I met him again.  And he treated me so bad, there was no trace of that sweet, understanding man left!

Marijke:  I am so sorry for you, Kaatje ... You deserve better!  Come here, sis, I want to give you a big hug, because I realize you went through a lot and you had a bad time!  *Marijke gives Kaatje a hug, and Kaatje cried her eyes out against Marijke's broad shoulders.  After several minutes, Marijke asked friendly*  Now ... Who is that man?  He doesn't deserve such a good woman as you, and your child deserves a better father!  But he must face the consequences.

Kaatje *softly*  I know.  Child support, things like that.  I don't want him as my man anymore, unless he comes with a damn good explanation of his behaviour.  But he must know that he is the father of this baby.

Roux:  Did you tell him?

Kaatje:  I did.  He kind of denied that he could be the father, and told me I could have slept with other men.  He told me he was the one who had a rough time ... Ha ha ha!  By the way, he was drunk as a skunk!  I hope he has such a bad hangover, that even his name hurts now!  But I don't think he will admit that he is the father, even after he is sober again.

Marijke:  There are tests that can prove he is the father.

Roux:  You must have his DNA then.  Unless you have some hair of him, or something like that, you can't do anything.

Kaatje:  I still have a comb that he used.  I kept it as a souvenir ... Maybe stupid, sorry.

Marijke *smiles*  Might be useful.  But I still have some questions.  Sorry, I don't want to nag, but when is the baby due ... and who is the father?

Kaatje:  The baby is due in June.  I'm not exactly sure *smiles apologetically*

 

Marijke *cries*  Ow my god!  That is next month!!!  And we have nothing here!  No cradle, no diapers, nothing!

 

Roux:  Easy, Marijke.  What we don't have can be bought.  Or borrowed.  Whatever.  Don't worry, Kaatje!  Kaatje?  What is happening!

Kaatje *turned pale suddenly*  There is something wrong ... It's not good!

Roux:  Please, Kaatje, don't worry!  We have plenty of room to have a baby, I have some very dear gipsy friends who can make a cradle, diapers are for sale in the grocery store, and feeding the baby ... well, I think almost every woman has some great natural food supplies for babies!  *smiles*

Kaatje:  It's not good ... Help me!

Marijke:  Roux ... I think her water broke...!

Roux *even the always-calm Roux suddenly had a little panic in his eyes*  Call the doctor!  Call the ambulance!  We must go to the hospital!

 

At Deppville Photoshop

 

Donnie *enters the shop; a middle-aged man stands behind the counter and Donnie approaches him*  Hello, Donnie Brasco.  I have an appointment with Mr. Svensson.

 

Svensson *smiles as he recognizes the name*  Ah yes, Mr. Brasco.  *Turns serious*  I understand that these photographs require a bit of discretion?

 

Donnie:  Yes, I would appreciate that.

 

Svensson *walks around the counter and motions Donnie to follow him*  This way, please.  *He leads him into a small back-office which contains only a table with a chair on each side.  On the table lies a stack of photographs, and there’s a phone and a work-lamp with a magnifying-glass attached to it.  Svensson motions for Donnie to take a seat as he sits down on the opposite side of the table.*  All right, let me see them.  *Holds out his hand expectantly.  Donnie pulls out the stack of photos and hands them to him as he takes a seat.*  You want me to verify the authenticity, yes?

 

Donnie:  Yes, I have reason to believe that they have been fabricated.

 

Svensson:  I see … *moves the lamp with the magnifying glass over the photographs and studies them one by one.  Finally he moves the lamp away and turns it off.  He looks at Donnie*  I’m not sure what result you were hoping for, but the photographs are real enough.  *Hands them back to Donnie*

 

Donnie:  And you are absolutely sure?

 

Svensson:  Afraid so.

 

Donnie *places the photos back in his bag; rises and shakes hands with Svensson*  Well, thank you for your time.

 

Svensson:  Anytime, Mr. Brasco.  *Donnie leaves closing the door behind him.  As soon as he’s gone, Svensson picks up the receiver and dials a number.  He speaks in a low voice as he leaves the message.*  Commander Portsmith.  Donnie Brasco was just here to verify the photographs of Inspector Abberline.  I did as you said, told him they were real.  *He puts down the receiver again while thinking contently of the money the Commander paid him.*

 

At From Hell Court

 

Hanson *clad in torn jeans and a badly tattered t-shirt borrowed from Charlie, with ruffled hair precisely in the way Donnie told him to do, and with a hideous pink and green bandanna, walks a bit unsure to the shadiest part of From Hell Court.  But no one except some very suspicious looking women take any notice of him and he begins to relax.  He stops by a bar, a place pointed out by the Commander as a favorite haunt of Inspector Abberline, and casually he walks in, and right down the stairs.  The room is low and dark and full of oddly scented smoke.  Here and there are small couches and men lying on them smoking weird looking ling pipes.*

Ivan *approaches him*  First time, eh?  Grab a pipe and choose a couch.  *he pushes poor Hanson to a corner, then he shoves him down on the ground and kicks his ribs*  Out with it, bloody cop!  Did the Inspecter send you?

Hanson *pipes up, fearing another kick*  No, no, I am Hanson and I was sent by the Commander to inspect .. to inspect the Inspector's businesses and .... some photos ...

Ivan *with an evil laugh grabs his shirt and yanks him up*  Ye've seen them, eh?  Let's go and have a talk, son ... *

Hanson *emerges after an hour from the den, breathing eagerly the air into his smoke-infested lungs.  He has with him some testimonies of the den owner and his pals.  They all have seen Abberline, and his only vice is not opium.  He has tried to blackmail the den owners, and he has accepted bribes ... Sadly, the photographs can't be faked.  Now what will Donnie say?  He wanders rather aimlessly, trying to find another den, but the doors and the shabby bars look all the same to him.  It's an awful place.  Why does the Inspector prefer it unless he has something forbidden going on?  Suddenly, he sees Inspector Abberline himself, he walks right past Hanson, and his intent gaze falls upon his face for a while, and Hanson is sure that Abberline knows him, and knows what he is doing ... But he walks by, and Hansons starts to stalk him.  After a few turns, he goes into a disgusting looking bar.  He peeks through the window and sees how Abberline orders a drink*

 

At Deppville Photoshop:

 

Donnie *steps outside on the street and takes out his cell phone, dials the number to the hospital*  Hello, this is Donnie Brasco.  Could you bring a phone to my wife’s room so I can talk to her, please?  *Listens as the nurse explains the situation.  A little nervously*  Of course she’s there.  She’s a patient at the hospital.  Check again, her name is Grace O’Malley Brasco.  *Listens again as the nurse tries to explain; in disbelief*  She did what?  Why the hell didn’t you stop her?  *Rolls his eyes as he listens*  Right … experiences with pirates.  I see … Thanks, I guess.  *Hangs up and heads towards his car while muttering*  What in the blazes are you up to now, Grace.  *He gets in the car and speeds off towards Arwen; mutters*  Bloody pirate!  *Then smiles a little and shakes his head as he notes how much he’s starting to talk like her.*

 

At From Hell Court:

 

Abberline *takes his drink and chooses a table in a corner where he can see the whole bar, he stretches his legs under the table and lights a cigarette.  He is very much aware how the conversation has turned down since he walked in, but he is used to that.  He has never been one of them, though he did practically live with them for long.  He never counted himself as one of them and he never wanted to.  But now, the subdued talk seems to have a different flavor than before, he can sense it.  They are all trying so hard not to look at him, to pretend that they are not seeing him.  He smokes his cigarette and ponders which one of them he should choose as his victim.  There must be a way to find out where all those rumors come from.*

A woman *walks past him, stumbles, probably drunk, takes hold of him, mutters*  Sorry sir ... *and when he pushes her up, she slips some greenish powder into his drink, and then she straightens, and she starts to scream*  No, I didn't, I didn't tell on you!  *and she rushes out*

Maryann *emerges back to the street feeling her blood still full of adrenalin.  She rips open her sleeve and starts to sob uncontrollably*  I swear I did not ... *She hides her smile when people start to gather around her, and she grabs the first man by his arm and starts to whisper*  It is him, he let the thugs beat up my sister because she didn't have any money to offer, and now he blames me for telling on him ... I swear I didn't, I didn't!  *her voice starts to rise and she sounds hysterical*

 

At Arwen

 

Donnie *parks the car and storms inside; sees Grace sitting in the rocking chair by the glass doors leading to the deck, holding a pillow in her lap; looks at her reproachfully*  Grace, have you lost your mind?  You know, they wanted to keep you at that hospital for a reason.  Why in the devil did you leave before the doctor …. *stops mid-sentence as he notices Sands lying on the sofa in a deep sleep*  What is he doing here?

 

Grace *Very calmly*  I left the hospital because I didn’t see no reason te stay when I were feelin’ fine.  An’ I still feel fine, so ye can relax.  *Nods towards the sofa*  Mr. Sands be ‘ere because I made ‘im a promise.

 

Donnie *runs a hand through his hair with a sigh*  Grace … sweetheart, you’re not strong enough to do spells.  You were shot, you’re still recovering!  Are you deliberately trying to give me grey hairs?

 

Grace *Grins*  I bet ye would look very distinguished an’ handsome with a few greys.  *Turns serious as she senses he’s not up for jokes*  Calm down, luv.  It were jus’ a little healing spell an’ I reckon it worked a bit on me too.  I feel e’en better now than when I left the hospital.  No reason te fret.  *Frowns*  Aren’t ye supposed te be out investigatin’?

 

Donnie:  I was investigating, but then I decided to call my wife at the hospital and what do you know, she’d run off!  *Waves towards Sands in an annoyed gesture*  If you already did the spell, what is he still doing here?

 

Grace:  Simple.  The spell put him in a deep sleep an’ the magic works while he be sleeping … by the time he wakes up, it’ll be done.

 

Donnie *grumpily*  Hmf …. *looks at her with concern*  Are you sure, you’re OK?

 

Grace:  Aye, I’m jus’ fine.

 

Donnie *Hesitantly*  Alright, I suppose I better get back to work then.  *Kisses her gently; his voice softened*  Be careful.

 

Grace *smiles*  I will … *watches after him as he leaves.  As soon as he’s gone, her expression turns serious; she lifts the pillow that was in her lap and covering her stomach.  There’s a large red stain on her shirt.  She carefully gets up from the chair and winces as she walks up the stairs.  In the bathroom she takes off her shirt and removes the bandage to check the stitches.  They’re still intact.  She carefully cleans the wound and re-dresses it before putting on a clean shirt.  She puts the used bandage and blood-stained shirt in a garbage bag and slowly makes her way down the stairs.  After throwing the bag in the trash, she sits down in the rocking chair again.  She hates to admit it, but Donnie was right.  She’s not strong enough to do spells and that healing spell certainly didn’t work on her.  She leans back in the chair and closes her eyes and soon drifts off, exhausted.*

 

Outside the Security Office:

 

Kat *Sits on a bench just outside the security center clutching the phony photos of Abby and Manouche.  Feeling a little guilty in that she hadn't wanted Abby to have them.  She knew they were not real but still the way he looked at them bothered her.  But someone is obviously out to get Abby and she has to do something.  Stares impatiently at the building.*  Bloody 'ell Ichy where are ye???

 

Portsmith *logs on to the surveillance camera at the Office to see whether Hanson or Donnie would be there and to see if they had accomplished anything more after the visit to the Photoshop, but there's only Charlie.  She zooms on the magazine he's reading and shakes her head in disgust.  Then she lets her gaze go through the monitors to see if there is something interesting on - and bingo, she sees Kat outside the Office*  Ichy?  What a good idea, Kat ... *she takes her phone and calls Ravenwood*

 

At Ravenwood:

Lady Cynthia *per Portsmith's orders, unlocks the door of Ichy's room quietly, then she calls to Mrs. Lovett, talking loud enough to be heard by Ichy*  Mrs. Lovett, can you bring us some tea and some of your good pies.  And a cake.  It's time for a little celebration.  It looks like the Commander finally managed to arrest my dear sister-in-law.  She's accused of piracy and smuggling.  I fear it will be the gallows for her ... *


Ichy *panics hearing the words.  He can hear Lady Cynthia's steps on the stairs as she's going to downstairs to the living room.  In desperation, he hurls himself against the door, and to his great amazement, he finds himself on the floor of the landing.  He has so many times before tried the handle and pushed the door, but it’s always stayed closed.  He listens for a while, but nobody seems to have noticed the noise he made – except Lady Cynthia who smiles her evil little smile hearing the door slam open, pretending not to have heard anything.  In a moment, he's out through the back door, running for the Security building without any plan what to do.*

 

At From Hell Court

 

Abberline *frowns, but doesn't react in any way to all the eyes staring at him, he raises his glass, but before he tastes his drink, he frowns again.  There's a faint familiar smell in the drink.  Opium.  He puts the glass back on the table and goes out to get hold of the crazy woman, but she's gone.  There's only a silent, threatening crowd looking at him*

 

Hanson *withdraws into a corner when he sees Abberline on the steps, he doesn't quite know what to do, but he doesn't like the look of the crowd.  He opts for chasing the woman who could confirm at least one of those incriminating photos, and he silently leaves the scene, deciding to give Donnie a call later.*

 

Outside the Security building:

 

Ichy *stops running, out of breath, when he sees Kat outside the Office*  Kat?  I heard you were arrested …  You have to flee immediately.  *notices a bunch of photos in her hand, takes a quick look and his eyes go wide*  What is that?

 

Kat *to Crane*  Blast!!!  Ichy ye 'bout give me 'eart failure pouncin' outta nowhere like that!!  What would I be arrested for??  I be done naught of late ... well almost naught, and for me that's bein' as almost innocent as it gets, savvy??  *Glares at him as another thought occurs to her and her expression turns suspicious.  Snatching the pictures back.*  Just what 'ave ye been up te of late, eh??  'aven't seen ye around and yer lookin' a might pale.  *Waving the pictures at him.*  Been spendin' much time in a dark room 'ave ye???

 

Ichy *with dignity*  I have been held prisoner at Ravenwood, Kat.  But I managed to flee.  *looks at her with concern*  These pictures, you know.  They tell everything I have tried to tell you.  Are you finally going to believe?

 

Kat *Skeptically*  By who, pray tell??  Onliest one there be Lady Pain in the arse and the only thin' she e'er bothers to lift be a tea cup.  Yer tryin' te tell me that prissy pants 'eld ye 'gainst yer will ... Uh huh.  These pictures do on the face of it tell exactly what ye say.  Most convenient, that.  Too convenient.  Portsmith put ye up te it, did she not.  I'd ne'er thought ye'd stoop so low.

 

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