Logline: Marked by grief, a woman tries to figure out how she feels about the polar opposite men in her life—two in the real world, two in her dreams, and the two who haunt her for very different reasons.
Opposite Love
by
Gil Liane
INT. LUCY’S APARTMENT - DAY
LUCY, in her mid-twenties with shoulder length brown hair, is seated at a small dining table in a tiny apartment. She has a sombre expression, and wears a work shirt with a store name.
Her apartment is decorated in neutral colors. The cheap, bland impression is broken up by a few bright ornaments.
She reaches for a silver box in the middle of the table, and removes a folded piece of paper. Unfolded, the paper is revealed to be heart-shaped and covered in pen marks.
LUCY (V.O.)
People say their heart broke
but I think it gets bent or
crumpled like a piece of paper.
A cardboard heart ironed flat
is never as good as new; creases
and lines make it look worn out
and old. This feels more real to
me than the idea of a scarred,
bleeding heart. A scar comes from
something organic healing itself,
and the marks on my heart won’t
change.
Picking up a black pen she makes another mark, before folding the paper and placing it back in the box.
INT. BOOK SHOP - DAY
At the counter of a small bookstore Lucy finishes serving a customer.
When the customer leaves she sits on the stool beside the register.
LUCY (V.O.)
People buy books to learn or to
hide. Motivations I can get behind.
SIMON, a good-looking hipster in his late twenties, also wearing the store shirt, steps behind the counter carrying two takeaway coffees. He places one in front of Lucy.
SIMON
Black with two sugars. I heard
you order it the other morning.
Lucy stares at the cup, obviously
unsettled. With a smile Simon walks
past her and into the back room.
SIMON (O.S.)
I have to buy my dad a birthday
present. Do you think I should get
gin or whiskey? Or maybe a book,
otherwise I’m wasting my discount.
Lucy picks up the novel on the counter, and begins reading.
LUCY (V.O.)
This guy likes to talk and
the store doesn’t play music.
Maybe that’s why they hired
him: to provide audio.
SIMON
Have you noticed the gift
section in here is expanding,
slowly taking over the mystery
fiction shelves? It’s a worrying
reflection of society. The best
gift should be a book. They hold
every idea or interest in the world.
LUCY (V.O.)
Simon’s thoughts aren’t boring,
but listening to him for hours is
like having a laptop stuck on a single
blog. Hit refresh and all you get are
more posts from the same perspective.
Lucy turns one page, then another, and another.
LUCY (V.O.)
Too much white noise.
CU of the book in Lucy’s hands shows it’s upside down and she’s staring into space, not at the page.
LUCY (V.O. CONT’D)
I’m barely here as it is.
INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
PETER, a sweet-looking guy in his early twenties, sits across from Lucy at a coffee shop.
They each have a coffee, and Peter has a piece of cake. The shop is deserted aside from the staff.
In the middle of the table is the takeaway coffee cup from the previous scene.
PETER
So this is the coffee he
bought you? As opening
moves go, it’s not bad.
LUCY
You’re reading into it.
PETER
Please. He breaks up with his
girlfriend, and now this.
(points at cup)
What does coffee symbolize?
If it was Turkish your fortune
could be read in the bottom, right?
LUCY
You’re not helping.
PETER
What if he asks you out?
LUCY
Can we drop the subject?
PETER
Fine.
Peter waves his hand through the takeaway coffee cup, which vanishes.
PETER (CONT’D)
One day though Luce.
(picks up cake fork, starts eating)
LUCY
Don’t be annoying.
PETER
(waving cake fork at her)
Hey, I’m eating here. Wake up.
INT. LUCY’S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Lucy jolts awake from her dream, noticing the digital clock on the bedside reads 1:35am. She closes her eyes.
MONTAGE
Memories of Internet articles on consecutive numbers flash through her mind, interspersed with 57 painted on a mailbox, and a digital 13 as seen in an elevator.
END OF MONTAGE
LUCY (V.O.)
1, 3, 5. Consecutive odd
numbers are a good thing.
Safety in patterns.
EXT. INNER CITY PARK - DAY
Around midday, the park is full of inner city workers on their lunch break. Most sit in small groups. Chatter fills the air. Lucy sits alone on the grass eating sushi.
ASHLEY, in her early thirties and dressed as an office worker, sits beside Lucy without invitation.
ASHLEY
You work at the bookstore, right?
I came in last week, you helped me
find a birthday present for my boss.
Lucy doesn’t reply. Ashley unwraps her sandwich, and takes a bite. They eat in silence, Ashley shooting Lucy occasional glances.
Standing up, Lucy starts to walk away, then pauses and turns back.
LUCY
Did he like it?
ASHLEY
(about to bite her sandwich, pausing)
What?
LUCY
The present.
ASHLEY
Yeah, he finished the book
on the weekend and bought
another in the series.
LUCY
That’s good. You never know.
ASHLEY
Know what?
LUCY
If choosing a world for
a stranger will work out.
ASHLEY
Oh.
LUCY
Bit like organizing a
seaside vacation without
being told if the other person
even goes to the beach.
Lucy walks away. Ashley shakes her head with a bemused smile, before taking another bite of the sandwich.
EXT. FIELD WITH ONE LARGE TREE - DAY
Beneath the branches of a tree sits Lucy and JAYDEN. In his mid to late twenties, Jayden is clean and preppy, with short blonde hair.
They stare across the empty field. A light sprinkle is falling.
LUCY
How can it be raining?
I’ve been so careful.
JAYDEN
Barely a drizzle.
He pushes her hair from her face. They kiss, until they’re lying on the grass making out.
Lucy pulls away.
LUCY
The weather’s going to get worse.
JAYDEN
Feel it in your bones grandma?
LUCY
(reluctantly smiling)
You’re not funny.
Jayden pulls her down to kiss her again. He rolls them over.
CUT TO:
INT. SEASIDE RESORT BEDROOM - DAY
Lucy and Jayden roll onto a luxurious bed in a seaside getaway. The decor, and the weather, have a bright, tropical feel.
JAYDEN
For now, I’m forecasting sunshine.
They start kissing. Soon most of their clothes are gone and they’re having sex.
INT. LUCY’S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Lucy jolts awake, back in her own bed. A glance at the digital clock shows the time is 1:42am.
LUCY (V.O.)
1 plus 4 plus 2 equals 7.
Lucky in a lot of places.
MONTAGE
Memories of assorted hard copy book pages referencing 7, and the meaning of 7 in numerology flash through her mind, including a reference to the number 7 in myths.
END OF MONTAGE
LUCY
(talking to herself)
Seven Lucky Gods. I can
go back to sleep with a 7.
INT. LUCY’S APARTMENT - DAY
Dressed in her work uniform, Lucy types on her laptop while eating toast at the dining table.
She presses “Receive Mail”. Four emails appear; three are spam.
The fourth is from someone called Essillier. She moves*this email to a folder marked “J.”
LUCY
(talking to herself)
Third this week.
With a sigh she turns off her laptop and leaves for work.
INT. BOOK SHOP - DAY
Lucy and Simon are sorting through new inventory at the counter.
SIMON
Have you read this
author’s other books?
LUCY
A couple.
SIMON
Wow, you read more than me. How
would you describe his style? I
keep getting caught out by customers.
LUCY
Well as a mystery writer
he uses a lot of symbolism.
nd he’s eloquent. Doesn’t
go for the modern trend
of short sentences.
SIMON
(smirking)
Amazed you like him then.
A man, KEVIN, approaches the counter to make a purchase. He looks to be in his late twenties and wears a well-cut suit.
KEVIN
Lucy? You’re working here?
LUCY
(uncomfortable)
Yeah, taking a break from college.
I thought you were in New York?
Lucy takes the book Kevin is holding and puts through the sale.
KEVIN
Just moved back, Jill got a great
job offer. You should come over for
dinner. Well, once we unpack the plates.
(laughs)
I saw James a couple of months
ago, he was in town for a
conference. Do you keep in touch?
LUCY
Cash or plastic?
Taking the hint, Kevin gives her his card and she finishes the sale. He accepts the bagged purchase she passes him.
KEVIN
Thanks. Here’s my card, give us a call
when you feel like coming over.
(passes her a business card)
Jill hasn’t seen you since... Well, good
to see you. Come for dinner soon.
With a wave he leaves the store. Simon watches Lucy pile the new books on the counter with utmost care.
SIMON
Who’s James?
LUCY
I’m going to put these on the shelf.
Lucy walks away.
SIMON
(to himself)
That’s what I thought.
EXT. INNER CITY PARK - DAY
Lucy is eating sushi in the park again when Ashley sits beside her. Ashley unpacks her lunch and starts chewing.
They eat in silence until it becomes clear Ashley is crying.
ASHLEY
Sorry.
Lucy offers her the napkin from the sushi container.
ASHLEY (CONT’D)
(taking napkin, wiping face)
My boyfriend wants a break.
No big deal, right?
Avoiding Ashley’s gaze, Lucy goes back to eating her lunch.
ASHLEY (CONT’D)
Getting upset is pathetic,
I know, but I’m not- I’m
not casual about this stuff.
Her words make Lucy pause. She puts down her food and meets Ashley’s eyes.
LUCY
Nobody in love is okay with
losing the other person. Cry
all you like. The expectation
that emotional pain should be
hidden is more disturbing
than a few tears.
ASHLEY
Geez you’re good with words.
(gives a small smile)
When you talk, that is.
Reaching into her bag Ashley pulls out a box of Japanese bear-shaped biscuits and offers them to Lucy.
ASHLEY (CONT’D)
Got you these to say sorry
for crashing your lunch breaks.
They’re strawberry flavored.
You like strawberry, right?
LUCY
(Taking the box)
Sure. Thanks.
ASHLEY
No problem. I’m addicted. Japanese
sweets taste different to American,
and the packaging is so cute!
Ashley’s tears have stopped. She gets to her feet.
ASHLEY (CONT’D)
I should go back early, fix my
makeup. I’m Ashley, by the way.
LUCY
Lucy.
Ashley turns to walk away, then turns back.
ASHLEY
Do you want to have a drink
after work? There’s a bar up
the road. Have you been there?
LUCY
No, I don’t drink much.
ASHLEY
A soda, then. Ten minutes. I
promise I won’t cry. We’ll just
relax and shake off the day.
LUCY
I can’t tonight.
ASHLEY
Tomorrow?
LUCY
I’m... Not sure. I-
ASHLEY
Please.
Ashley’s desperation makes Lucy reconsider.
LUCY
Okay.
(pause)
For a little bit.
EXT. RAINY STREET - NIGHT
Lucy runs down a dark street, clearly terrified, rain whipping her face. The sound of rainfall dominates.
Lucy screams. A dark figure runs into frame, enveloping her in his arms. Dressed in black, JORDAN is in his mid-to late twenties with messy dark hair.
She buries her head in his chest. He opens his coat and the fabric grows, wrapping around the pair, cocooning them. Soon the sound of the rain is blocked out.
LUCY (V.O.)
He wraps me in his darkness.
The silence feels safe, but
I know he won’t let me stay.
His pain doesn’t like to share.
Jordan steps back, hands moving to her shoulders. The coat now covers them like a dark tent. A soft beam of light reveals his face. He tilts Lucy’s head till their eyes meet.
JORDAN
(whispering)
Get out.
He pushes Lucy away. She falls through a kaleidoscope made from layers of dark cloth that moves as if alive.
INT. LUCY’S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Waking in her bed, but under the sheets, Lucy panics, kicking and struggling until she emerges.
Rolling on her side toward the middle of the bed, she tries to calm her breathing, curling into a ball.
LUCY (V.O.)
I don’t need to look at the
time to know the numbers
will be a useless jumble.
EXT. STREET FRONT OF BOOK SHOP - NIGHT
Leaving the bookstore after work, Lucy finds Ashley sitting on the steps, smoking a cigarette.
ASHLEY
Didn’t see you at lunch,
so wasn’t sure if we’re
still on for a drink.
LUCY
(looking nervous)
The store got busy. I
had to take a late break.
ASHLEY
We don’t have to go for drinks.
I know I pressured you into it.
Ashley takes a drag of the cigarette, and Lucy notices the woman’s hand is shaking.
LUCY
One drink, right?
(almost talking to herself)
I can do that.
Simon exits the bookstore, locking the door behind him.
SIMON
(to Lucy)
You’re going for drinks?
(to Ashley)
Hey, I’m Simon.
ASHLEY
Ashley. Yeah, up the street.
SIMON
Can I come?
ASHLEY
(glancing at Lucy)
Sure.
The three of them set off down the pavement. Lucy places herself on the outside with Ashley in the middle.
INT. BAR - NIGHT
The bar is full of office workers who just finished for the day. Lucy, Ashley, and Simon stand around a small table. Ashley holds a wine, Simon a beer, and Lucy a soda.
SIMON
You work at the travel agency, right?
ASHLEY
For now.
SIMON
You don’t like it?
ASHLEY
(shrugging)
Might be time for a change.
SIMON
I’m sensing a backstory.
ASHLEY
Trust me, my adult life
is one long backstory.
MICHAEL approaches the table. He has short brown hair and wears a worn long sleeve black tee under a leather jacket. Sexy in a scruffy way, it’s hard to tell from his expression if he’s angry, bored, or sad.
ASHLEY
You came!
MICHAEL
Well you did promise
to buy me a drink.
ASHLEY
I’m so glad you’re here.
With a squeal Ashley rushes around to give Michael a hug from behind that he tries to shrug off.
ASHLEY (CONT’D)
(to Lucy and Simon)
This is my little bro Michael. Before
he says anything, let me apologize for
his terrible social skills.
(to Michael)
Meet Simon and Lucy. I’ll buy your
beer. Be good till I get back.
Ashley rushes off to the bar.
SIMON
Do you work nearby too?
MICHAEL
No.
Simon waits for Michael to elaborate, but he doesn’t add anything.
SIMON
Lucy and I work in the same
building as your sister. She
invited us for after-work drinks.
An uncomfortable silence settles. Michael isn’t hostile, but has no interest in small talk. Simon’s eyes stay on Lucy, which Michael notices.
Simon moves around the table to be closer to her.
SIMON
So how long have you
and Ashley been friends?
LUCY
Not long.
SIMON
And she convinced you to come
for drinks before I could?
(leaning in close)
That’s impressive.
Lucy nods, uncomfortable. Simon finishes the last of his beer.
SIMON
I’m going to the bathroom.
Do you want another
drink on my way back?
LUCY
No, I’m good.
Simon walks away.
MICHAEL
For a second I thought he
was going to take you with him.
LUCY
What?
Michael doesn’t respond. Lucy picks up the coaster on the table. The paper is printed with a picture of an acorn. She runs her fingers across the graphic.
MICHAEL
What are you thinking?
LUCY
(jolted out of her thoughts)
Nothing.
MICHAEL
Aren’t you going to
make small talk?
LUCY
(putting the coaster
in her bag)
Sure. What do you want
to talk about?
MICHAEL
(pointing at Lucy)
That right there.
That’s what I thought.
Michael puts his arm on the table and rests his head on them. Lucy stares at him, unsure what to do.
Ashley walks up with a glass of wine and a beer. Michael sits up and takes the beer.
ASHLEY
Did Simon go home?
LUCY
No, to the bathroom.
ASHLEY
Quick, fill me in.
Are you two a thing?
Lucy shakes her head.
ASHLEY
He’s definitely interested, and
if you’re into the hipster look
he’s a cutie. But you work together.
Take it from me, that’s not good.
More importantly, are you into him?
Lucy takes a gulp of her drink instead of replying.
MICHAEL
Not even a free beer is
worth sitting through this.
ASHLEY
(to Lucy)
Ignore him.
MICHAEL
You’ve got relationships
on the brain, sis.
ASHLEY
Is that surprising? I just like
the idea of Lucy being happy.
Someone at this table should be.
Lucy knocks over her glass, causing Michael to give her a sharp look. She meets his gaze for a startled second, before looking away. Ashley wipes up the mess with a tissue.
ASHLEY
I’ll get you another one.
LUCY
No, that’s okay. The store
was flat out this
afternoon. I’m gonna go.
ASHLEY
Already?
LUCY
Sorry. Simon and Michael
will keep you company.
ASHLEY
I’m not counting this
s the drink you promised.
Book me in for another night.
LUCY
Okay.
Before Ashley can say anything else Lucy disappears into the crowd. With a sigh Ashley takes a gulp of her wine.
INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
PETER sits across from Lucy at the same coffee shop as last time.
Again they each have a cup of coffee, and Peter has a piece of chocolate cake. It’s daytime, but the shop is deserted save the staff behind the counter.
PETER
So you went for drinks?
LUCY
Yeah, it was kind of awful.
PETER
Why? Because of wanna-be boyfriend?
LUCY
More because of the noise. I haven’t
been to a bar in a while. All the
voices gave me a headache.
PETER
And whose fault is that?
Life should be fun. Why won’t
you let yourself have fun?
LUCY
Please don’t.
PETER
I’m worried about you.
The table suddenly disappears, only to reappear to the right of them.
PETER (CONT’D)
See?
LUCY
I can’t concentrate.
PETER
Why? Because of my questions,
or because a storm is closing in?
LUCY
(standing up)
Stop it.
(starting to cry)
I just want us to have coffee.
PETER
I know. But you can’t hide forever.
INT. LUCY’S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Lucy wakes up with tears on her face: she’s been crying in her sleep. A glance at the clock shows the time is 3:21am.
LUCY (V.O.)
A countdown. Guess I
shouldn’t be surprised.
Rolling onto her back she stares at the roof, unable to fall asleep again.
INT. LUCY’S APARTMENT - MORNING
The doorbell rings. Lucy walks over, carrying a cup of juice, and looks through the peephole to find her mother on the doorstep.
ELISE is a middle-aged woman wearing expensive conservative clothes.
Lucy leans her head against the door for a few seconds, and closes her eyes.
LUCY (V.O.)
My mother loves chaos and brings
it everywhere, like a best friend
she can’t stand to be separated from.
Opening the door, Lucy steps aside as her mother strolls in.
ELISE
Hello darling. I’m on my way
to pick up a pair of heels and
thought we could take a look at
the new season collections.
Wait, what are you wearing?
LUCY
I’m going to work.
ELISE
But you don’t work Saturdays.
LUCY
I promised to cover the morning
shift. You should have rung first.
ELISE
Please, as if you’d answer my calls.
And you never turn your phone on.
LUCY
I check it twice during
the day. That’s enough.
Lucy walks back to the kitchen. Elise follows.
ELISE
What about apps and social media?
They help people connect.
LUCY
I’m fine with being disconnected.
Lucy rinses her glass.
ELISE (CONT’D)
Speaking of connections, you
won’t believe who I bumped into
the other day: James’ mother.
The glass slips from Lucy’s hands, smashing on the floor. She bends down to pick up the pieces.
ELISE
She said he’s been very
successful in France.
LUCY
Mom, I have to go to work.
ELISE
She asked how your law degree was going.
I didn’t know what to say, so I lied.
LUCY
Mom!
ELISE
How could I say my daughter’s
working at a bookstore, especially
when her son is doing so well?
LUCY
(placing broken
glass in trash)
You don’t know how
he’s doing. Not really.
ELISE
And you do? I very much doubt
you return his calls. If you ask me-
LUCY
No one did. Come on,
you’re making me late.
ELISE
Don’t think I don’t notice
how you get when I mention him.
No point crying when he shows up
with a European wife in tow.
Grabbing her bag and phone, Lucy hustles her mother out the door.
ELISE (CONT’D)
And those girls are beautiful,
it’s where the best models come
from. You let that one slip
through your fingers.
Locking her apartment door, Lucy notices her hand is covered in blood from a small cut.
LUCY (V.O.)
This time she managed to make
me bleed on the surface as well.
INT. JORDAN’S ROOM - NIGHT
The apartment is tiny, cheaply furnished, and lit by one soft globe. Dirty laundry and books are everywhere.
Jordan lies on a double bed taking up most of the room. He sits up as the door opens and Lucy enters.
JORDAN
You know, I didn’t think
you liked this apartment.
Leaning over, he picks up a fig from a bowl resting on an old crate serving as a coffee table.
JORDAN (CONT’D)
And why figs? We could
barely afford instant ramen.
Lucy sits on the edge of the bed.
LUCY
This place was fun in its own way. We
were young and dramatic and romantic.
JORDAN
(moving across the bed toward her)
Plus we had the best make up sex here.
This surprises a laugh from Lucy. She stops when Jordan roughly pulls open the front of her shirt.
LUCY
Why aren’t your clothes coming
off at the same time? And why
is there hardly any light?
JORDAN
Don’t blame me, I’m following
the script. You created me to
be the dark one, remember?
LUCY
It’s not like that.
JORDAN
Since you could wake up any second
tell me what you want me to do...
(Kissing her now-bare shoulder)
Tie you up maybe?
LUCY
Make me forget.
JORDAN
But you never forget.
Before Lucy can reply Jordan twists her around and kisses her. The kiss is notably more passionate than her kisses with Jayden.
EXT. PARK WITH LAKE - DAY
Lucy jogs with her best friend KATE, who is the same age. While Lucy wears gray sweats, Kate is a cheerful blond in bright pink running wear.
They slow from a run to a walk. Both are sweaty and out of breath.
KATE
So how’s work?
LUCY
Fine. You?
KATE
The agency scored this big contract.
We’ve been working late every night.
The boss organizes takeout but it’s
so unhealthy I swear I’m getting scurvy.
I’ve forgotten what a fresh vegetable
looks like. Do you want to get lunch
from that vegetarian place?
LUCY
(stretching)
Can’t, I have stuff to do.
KATE
How did I know you’d say that?
Lucy why do I only get to hang
with you if I agree to run in
circles? Besides, when was the
last time you just chilled?
LUCY
I went out for drinks.
KATE
What?
LUCY
Well, one drink.
KATE
Only one drink?
LUCY
And it was a soda.
KATE
I give up. Did you at least have fun?
LUCY
Not really.
KATE
Baby steps, honey.
Lucy watches as Kate stretches halfheartedly, wincing with each motion.
LUCY
You don’t have to run with me.
KATE
Are you kidding? I love not
sleeping in on my one day off,
getting covered in sweat
while having a one-sided
conversation. Good times.
LUCY
Seriously, I’m fine running by myself.
KATE
No way. These running sessions
are the only exercise I get
after a week behind a desk.
This great butt is thanks to you.
LUCY
You’re welcome.
KATE
(smiling)
See you next week?
LUCY
(smiling)
Sure.
INT. LUCY’S APARTMENT - DAY
Still in her running gear, Lucy enters the apartment carrying a parcel. Stamps and postage stickers make it clear the sender lives overseas.
Opening the package reveals a set of salt and pepper shakers covered in an Oriental maple leaf pattern.
Reading the card in the box, we hear the words in the voice of her ex-boyfriend JAMES.
JAMES (V.O.)
Remember the maple
leaves in Japan? J.
Lucy returns the card and salt ‘n pepper shakers to the box before placing it in a kitchen drawer.
INT. INNER CITY LOFT - NIGHT
Jordan sits on the floor in the corner of an upmarket inner city loft, bent over as if dejected. The room is professionally decorated to young corporate tastes, and lit by a single lamp burning in one corner.
He looks up as Lucy approaches. She sits on the ground beside him, her mood subdued.
JORDAN
What happened today?
Why are we here?
When she doesn’t answer he lifts a hand to touch her face, pausing at the sight of bleeding knuckles.
Lucy takes his injured hand, stroking the broken skin gently.
LUCY
When you started punching the
wall I wanted to tell you to stop.
JORDAN
Nobody told us.
LUCY
What?
JORDAN
That unshed tears turn into
a rage you can feel swimming
through the system.
LUCY
(kissing his knuckles)
It’s in the blood.
Pulling his hand from her grip, Jordan wraps an arm around her.
JORDAN (CONT’D)
I should have cried.
LUCY
We both should have cried.
Lucy leans into him, and Jordan sighs.
JORDAN
You should wake up.
I don’t like this place.
EXT. STREET FRONT OF BOOK SHOP - NIGHT
Lucy is locking up the bookstore for the night when Simon walks up carrying a bag.
LUCY
What are you doing here?
SIMON
Since you’ll probably say no if I ask
you out I’m gonna jump in. I cooked,
and we can eat at the park up the way.
No big deal. Half an hour, tops.
LUCY
I-
SIMON
Twenty minutes then. Don’t think
up an excuse. We could have eaten
dinner in the time it would
take to have an argument.
LUCY
(flustered)
Fine.
She starts walking and Simon falls into step, looking pleased with himself.
EXT. INNER CITY PARK - EVENING
The sun has set, and Simon and Lucy are sitting on his coat. Lucy is eating rice salad from a lunchbox while Simon enjoys a wrap.
SIMON
Pity, no stars out yet.
How’s the salad?
LUCY
Great.
SIMON
My brother’s a chef, he’s
always teaching me new
dishes. Do you cook a lot?
LUCY
Not really.
SIMON
I guess when you live alone,
there’s not much point.
LUCY
Simon, why do you like me?
He takes another bite of food and thinks about the question while he chews.
SIMON
You’re so calm and peaceful.
Nothing bothers you; like
you’re above it all. I’m
really into that.
LUCY
Oh.
Disturbed by the answer she eats quickly, placing the lunch box back in the paper bag.
LUCY
That was great.
(standing up)
I have to go.
SIMON
(standing up)
Okay.
She moves to leave. Simon grabs her arm and leans in for a kiss, but she steps back.
SIMON
Sorry, didn’t mean to rush you.
LUCY
Thanks for the food.
Lucy hurries away before he can say anything else.
EXT. FIELD - NIGHT
Lucy sits on a plush picnic blanket, Jayden lying on his side beside her. They’re eating plastic wrapped cheese slices and drinking red wine from plastic glasses.
LUCY
You’re good at romantic picnics.
JAYDEN
We’ve even got stars.
Leaning back she looks up at the abnormally sparkly night sky. Stars swirl like fireflies, darting around in a swarm before settling in new positions.
LUCY
That’s an extremely
impressive date effort.
JAYDEN
I’m like, literally moving the
heavens for you. Do you feel special?
Lucy laughs, and glances up at the sky again. When she looks down the food is gone, and a hand-knitted blanket with a maple leaf pattern covers them.
JAYDEN
Tell me why that guy upset you.
LUCY
First, he ambushed me.
JAYDEN
Well he was never going
to get a date otherwise.
LUCY
Then he called me calm and peaceful.
JAYDEN
Yeah, he’s on his own there.
LUCY
I’m the least calm and
peaceful person I know.
JAYDEN
You’re more frozen in
a kind of stasis. That’s
sort of the opposite.
LUCY
He seemed intelligent
but the way he described
me was clueless.
JAYDEN
Maybe he was projecting?
People mix up what they
see with what they want.
LUCY
Meaning?
JAYDEN
If his dream girl is a peaceful
person, your silence is probably
close enough. I’ve heard attraction
is mostly self-delusion.
LUCY
Gee, thanks.
JAYDEN
You want me to say you’re charming?
‘Cause I find you charming.
LUCY
(looking up at the stars)
That’s because you’re in my head.
EXT. FRONT OF BOOK SHOP - NIGHT
Leaving work, Lucy and Simon find Ashley waiting out the steps, smoking.
ASHLEY
(to Lucy)
Is your phone ever on?
LUCY
Sorry.
ASHLEY
You owe me a drink. I’m ready
for a mid-week catch up and plan
to get revoltingly drunk. Don’t
worry, Michael’s agreed to take
me home, so you only have Ash
Duty for one glass.
SIMON
Great, let’s go.
Simon links his arm through Lucy’s before she can protest. Ashley raises her eyebrows at Lucy.
INT. BAR - NIGHT
Ashley, Lucy, Simon, and Michael are standing around a small table. Most of their drinks are more than half-finished. This time the bar has fewer patrons and a quieter atmosphere.
Michael appears bored, head resting on one hand. The other hand plays with a coaster, flipping the cardboard square between restless fingers.
SIMON
A guy comes in every week
and buys a single book from
Lucy, but he only buys the
titles in alphabetical order.
Once he forgot what letter he
was up to and started freaking,
but Lucy remembered.
MICHAEL
Of course she did.
SIMON
What about you?
MICHAEL
What about me?
SIMON
Don’t you have a work story?
MICHAEL
Not really.
ASHLEY
I have a woman who changes
her annual vacation plans
every few days for months
beforehand. The fees cost
more than the trip.
LUCY
How strange.
MICHAEL
Here I thought you’d be a fan
of someone planning their escape.
LUCY
What?
ASHLEY
Ignore him, he’s a difficult drunk.
MICHAEL
Actually I’m difficult and mostly sober.
SIMON
(to Ashley)
So you broke up with your boyfriend?
ASHLEY
I’m not drunk enough yet to go into it.
SIMON
That bad, huh?
ASHLEY
We need another round. My
shout. Maybe a few shots, too.
(to Simon)
Help me carry.
Ashley and Simon walk over to the bar.
LUCY
(to Michael)
You don’t like me, do you?
MICHAEL
Not really.
LUCY
Why not?
MICHAEL
Does it matter?
LUCY
I’m curious.
MICHAEL
Did Ash give you those
Japanese biscuits she loves?
LUCY
Yeah.
MICHAEL
And when she asked if you like
strawberry flavored food you
said yes, even though strawberry
makes you wanna puke?
LUCY
How did you know?
MICHAEL
Because you’re a constant liar.
That’s why I don’t like you.
LUCY
Excuse me?
MICHAEL
You’re a liar. You lie all the time...
Your face, your words, the way you move.
It’s all lies so you can be left in peace.
Ashley and Simon return carrying a tray of drinks.
ASHLEY
Do you want a shot?
LUCY
No thanks. I’m off home.
MICHAEL
Course you are.
ASHLEY
Why? Is my brother being
annoying? Don’t go yet.
LUCY
I have a double shift tomorrow.
SIMON
I’ll walk you out.
LUCY
That’s okay. Pace yourself Ashley.
Lucy leaves before Simon can move to her side.
INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
Peter sits across from Lucy at their regular table in the deserted coffee shop.
As per usual they have cups of coffee, but this time a chocolate cake has been placed in the centre of the table.
PETER
What’s with the cake?
LUCY
Not sure.
PETER
So do you like that Michael guy?
LUCY
Are you kidding?
PETER
He seems more aware than most.
LUCY
I guess.
PETER
At least you feel something around him.
LUCY
Mostly rage, and it’s uncomfortable.
PETER
But real, right?
LUCY
(standing up)
Let me cut you some cake.
PETER
I don’t think you should do that.
Lucy picks up the long knife on the table and slices through the centre of the cake. As she cuts Peter gasps and leans over, clutching his stomach.
Lucy pulls the knife from the cake, horrified to see the blade covered in a sticky, dark red substance.
LUCY
What the hell?
Peter lifts his hands up to show them covered in blood.
PETER
It wasn’t like that.
LUCY
I’m so sorry.
PETER
(gaze locked on his blood-soaked hands)
Wasn’t your fault.
INT. LUCY’S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Lucy bolts upright in bed, gasping for breath. She switches on the bedside lamp with fumbling fingers, and turns the digital clock over so the numbers face down.
Taking a few deep breaths, she tries to fall sleep again, this time with the light on.
INT. RESTAURANT - DAY
KEN, a middle-aged man in a suit with a kindly face, sits at a restaurant table. Glancing at his watch, then the door, he smiles as Lucy approaches in her work uniform.
LUCY
(sitting across from Ken)
Hey dad.
KEN
It’s good to see you, kid.
LUCY
This is mom’s idea, isn’t it?
You don’t need to fit me in,
I know you’re busy.
KEN
Even a busy man makes
time to see his daughter.
A waitperson approaches to take their order.
LUCY
I’ll have a Caesar
salad and a Coke, thanks.
KEN
I’ll have a coffee.
LUCY
Dad, you know you can’t do that.
KEN
Sorry love, I forgot.
(to the waitress)
Bring me a Caesar salad
and an orange juice instead.
The waitperson nods and leaves to place the order.
KEN
(to Lucy)
What are you up to these days?
LUCY
Not much. Mostly working.
KEN
Do you like the bookstore?
LUCY
It’s fine.
KEN
Is the guy who talks a
lot still working there?
LUCY
Yeah. Still talking, but he
doesn’t bother me as much.
I’ve gotten used to it.
KEN
Good, good.
LUCY
Aren’t you going to ask?
KEN
Ask what?
LUCY
When I’m going back to
college. That’s what mom
wants to know, right?
KEN
I’m sure you’ll go
back when you’re ready.
LUCY
That’s what I keep telling
her, but she doesn’t listen.
KEN
Mom’s worry. What else
is happening beside work?
LUCY
Not much.
KEN
Still jogging with Kate?
LUCY
(nodding)
She complains the whole
way but insists on coming.
KEN
Good old Kate.
LUCY
I really am okay dad.
The waitperson brings their drinks over.
KEN
Maybe you should turn your
phone on then, so your
mother doesn’t worry.
LUCY
Dad...
KEN
Just during lunch?
With a sigh Lucy takes out her mobile and switches it on. Within seconds it rings. She answers the call.
LUCY
Hello mom. (pause) Yes, we’re
about to eat. (pause) Mom, the
foods here. (pause) Yes, I’ll
leave it on for a bit, but work’s
busy. (pause) I’m hanging up now.
Lucy hangs up the phone. Almost instantly, a text message arrives.
LUCY
See what I’m dealing with?
Ken smiles.
EXT. STREET SCENE - DAY
Walking along the pavement of a busy city street, Lucy and Ken stop at the corner of a large intersection.
LUCY
Thanks for lunch.
KEN
Always good to see you, we
should do it again soon. And
pick up when you mother calls.
Or at least ring her back.
Remember, I’m the one who has
to listen to her complain.
LUCY
For you I will. Tell mom-
Before Lucy can finish, her words are drowned out by the sound of screeching tires: an out of control car skids into oncoming traffic. Lucy and Ken stare, mesmerized, as two cars careen into each other.
Ken’s attention jolts back to Lucy, whose eyes are locked on the unfolding accident. Stepping in front of his daughter, he blocks her view, grabbing her in an enveloping hug, pushing her face into his chest.
LUCY (V.O.)
I never thought a car accident
sounded this way: the twisting
metal makes a strange noise,
like a shrieking, suffering animal.
When the sound of impact stops, Lucy pulls free from Ken’s embrace, and they stare at each other.
LUCY (V.O.)
Dad’s afraid, I can tell,
but not for himself: for what
this moment will do to me.
KEN
Are you alright?
LUCY
The sun is shining, dad. I’m okay.
Lucy begins walking. Ken keeps pace, clutching her arm.
KEN
(steering Lucy to a bench)
Sit here, I’ll get you a
drink. Sugar’s good for shock.
LUCY
(sitting on bench)
I’m really fine.
KEN
Maybe I need one
then. Wait here, love.
Ken hurries to a nearby store. Lucy notices her hands are trembling.
LUCY (V.O.)
I have to stop shaking
before he gets back.
Taking deep breaths she focuses on her hands, turning the palms over.
FLASHBACK TO:
EXT. PARK BENCH - DAY (2 YEARS AGO)
CU of Lucy’s hands in the same pose as above, shaking. Unlike her bare hands in the present day, she wears rings and her fingernails are covered in polish.
LUCY
I’m sorry. I don’t
know why I got upset.
A man’s hand reaches across to stroke the lines of her palm.
LUCY
What are you doing?
JAMES
Your hand is like a landscape.
Rivers, ditches, canyons. I like it.
LUCY
For a second James, I thought
you were going to read my fortune.
JAMES
No, just enjoying the view. Next
time you shake, remember: you made it
through the earthquake. This is an
aftershock; nothing to worry about.
James’ hand wraps around hers, and she opens her fingers so they can hold onto each other.
BACK TO PRESENT
Lucy’s hands are alone in shot. She’s stopped trembling, and she turns them over, wiping her palms on her thighs as Ken approaches carrying two drinks.
Standing, she takes one of the drinks from him.
LUCY
I have to get back to
work, my lunch hour’s up.
KEN
Are you sure? Do you
want me to take you home?
LUCY
Seriously, it’s okay.
Thanks for the drink.
KEN
At least let me
walk you back to work.
LUCY
No, your building’s in the
other direction. I’m good.
KEN
Well, I’ll call you later.
Ring me if you need anything.
LUCY
I will. Thanks dad.
Lucy gives Ken a kiss on the cheek that seems to startle him, before walking away.
INT. BOOK SHOP - DAY
Simon is serving a customer, with another waiting, when Lucy arrives back at the store. Instead of moving to help, she walks behind the counter and into the back room.
LUCY
(to Simon as she’s passing)
Bathroom.
Running through the back of the store, she places the drink on the table, and heads for the bathroom.
Locking the door, she kneels next to the toilet and throws up.
When she’s finished she flushes the toilet, and sits back against the wall. Her phone beeps. She checks it, and it’s a message from Ken.
ANGLE ON TEXT: “Just checking on you.”
Lucy fires back a quick message.
ANGLE ON TEXT: “Don’t worry dad, I’m fine x”
She gets up and walks to the sink.
Rinsing her mouth and washing her hands and face, she pauses, staring into the mirror, remembering Michael’s words in the bar.
MICHAEL (O.S.)
You’re a liar. You lie all the time...
Your face, your words, the way you move.
It’s all lies so you can be left in peace.
INT. LOUNGE ROOM - NIGHT
The sound of partying downstairs filters into the room where Jordan and Lucy are making out.
LUCY
This feels almost too good.
JORDAN
First time we had XTC, remember?
LUCY
Oh, you’re right.
JORDAN
(running his hand
through Lucy’s hair)
We should go downstairs
and enjoy the lights. I
like watching you dance.
LUCY
Mm, later.
They start making out again, till a flash of movement catches Lucy’s eye.
LUCY
Wait, I think I saw something.
JORDAN
Where?
LUCY
On the balcony.
She gets out of bed, stopping when Jordan grabs her arm.
JORDAN
Don’t.
LUCY
But what if a
person’s locked out?
Shaking off his grip, she moves to the balcony door.
LUCY (CONT’D)
(peering through the glass)
I can’t see.
JORDAN
Open that door and
anything could happen.
Reaching for the handle, Lucy slides open the door. A small breeze filters in. Stepping through, she looks around but the balcony is deserted.
Suddenly the door slams shut. Spinning around, she pulls at the handle, but it refuses to move. On the other side of the glass Jordan tries to open the door, but it won’t budge.
A piece of paper on the ground catches Lucy’s eye. Bending down, she picks up the brightly colored tarot card.
LUCY
I’ve seen this before.
She holds the card up to Jordan through the glass.
LUCY (CONT’D)
(yelling)
Is this the card for Death?
Jordan yells something in reply, but the words don’t pass through the glass.
The wind becomes a gale, snatching the card from her hand. A glance at the sky reveals storm clouds rolling in. Panicking, Lucy pulls hard on the handle.
Soon the wind is so strong it throws her around the balcony. She staggers, fighting to stay on her feet. A huge gusts lifts her up and flings her over the railing. She screams as she falls.
INT. LUCY’S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Jolting awake from her nightmare, Lucy realizes the wind is actually outside the house. Getting up, she closes the windows and blinds.
Picking up the digital clock, she checks the time. With a sigh she places it back in its usual position.
Walking into the lounge room, she switches on the television and finds a shopping channel. Turning up the volume, she sits cross-legged on the sofa to wait for dawn.
EXT. PARK WITH LAKE - DAY
Lucy and Kate are jogging around the lake, Lucy in her usual grey sweats, Kate in another bright running outfit.
FLASHBACK TO:
EXT. PARK WITH LAKE - DAY
Lucy and James walk past the lake after work, dressed in office wear. We see them from behind, and hear their voices.
JAMES
Why are you still mad?
LUCY
What you said was too harsh even
if you were drunk. And why were
you so drunk, at home, on a weeknight?
Don’t you think that’s a bad thing?
JAMES
You were drunk too. I‘m not
the one who smashed the lamp.
LUCY
That’s the problem. We’re not-
we’re not helping each other.
JAMES
Maybe we should talk about-
LUCY
No. What difference does it
make? Nothing will change.
JAMES
Is this what you want? I’m
tired of pretending nothing’s
wrong. You think I don’t know
you wait until I leave the
apartment to cry? It’s screwed
up Luce. We’re screwed up.
LUCY
That’s because I know
what you think of me.
JAMES
What does that mean?
LUCY
You get so angry. So do I- I’m not
blaming you but I don’t want to live
like this. Sometimes I hate you as
much as I love you and I know you
feel the same. We should break up.
Before we break each other.
JAMES
(stops walking)
What?
BACK TO PRESENT
Lucy stops running and bends over, panting.
KATE
(coming to a halt)
Are you okay?
LUCY
Yeah, just tired. Haven’t
been sleeping well.
KATE
How come?
LUCY
Weird dreams. I saw a car
accident the other day.
KATE
Oh my God, are you okay?
LUCY
I’m fine. I think it threw my
sleep pattern off a bit, though.
Lucy stretches, and Kate follows her lead. They cool down in silence for a while.
LUCY
You’ve gotten a tarot
reading before, right?
KATE
A girl at my work reads the
cards. The last one turned
out so true it was spooky.
LUCY
Do you know what
the death card means?
KATE
Not sure. I remember it can mean
more than death. Maybe change,
or something similar? Why?
LUCY
It was in my dream.
KATE
Weird. I don’t think it’s bad,
though. You should Google it.
LUCY
Maybe.
KATE
Ah, you got nervous, didn’t
you? That’s why you haven’t
looked it up online.
LUCY
No, I was busy.
KATE
You’re full of it. I knew
those superstitions would
mess with your head one day.
LUCY
Hey, which one of us downloaded
the fortune telling app?
KATE
Been out for drinks again?
LUCY
Once.
KATE
Was it as awful
as the first time?
LUCY
Worse.
KATE
Honestly, what am I
going to do with you?
LUCY
Another lap?
KATE
Not funny.
LUCY
Let’s go.
Lucy jogs away. With a groan, Kate follows.
INT. BOOK SHOP - DAY
Lucy and Simon are sitting behind the counter. Lucy is reading a book.
SIMON
I’m going to a lecture
tomorrow night with a
friend. Should be interesting.
He waits, but Lucy doesn’t respond.
SIMON (CONT’D)
This guy wrote a book about managing
grief. He studied the grieving process
of different cultures and worked out
the most practical approach.
LUCY
What does that mean?
SIMON
Like, the shortest and
most effective way to grieve.
LUCY
A formula?
SIMON
Yeah, I guess.
LUCY
He wrote a formula for a
complex personal experience?
SIMON
See, thinking grief is unique
is the problem. In reality
everyone in the world has
a similar struggle.
LUCY
So?
SIMON
So according to this guy, grieving
has a negative impact on society
financially and spiritually.
LUCY
Inspiring him to write
an instruction manual
for speed-grieving?
SIMON
According to his website the goal
is to grieve efficiently, and
quickly become functional again,
in an authentic way.
LUCY
People aren’t Ikea furniture.
When tragedy flatpacks them,
you can’t just slot their
spirit back together.
SIMON
Ha, classic. Anyhow we’re going for
Korean after, there’s a really cheap
restaurant nearby. Do you wanna come?
LUCY
(slamming the book shut)
Not my thing.
Picking up a dust rag from under the counter, she walks away to clean the shelves.
INT. LUCY’S APARTMENT - DAY
An email from Kate lands in Lucy’s inbox while she’s browsing the web. Clicking it open, the email reads:
KATE (V.O.)
Jill says Paul saw you. They want
to have dinner. She sent a photo of
Paul and James in New York. Because
you’re my bestie, I have to tell you
James emailed asking if you read his
messages. I guess not? Forwarded image
file anyway, if you want to open it. Kate.
Lucy clicks on the attachment.
Instead of showing the photo, the camera stays on Lucy’s face. After a few seconds she slams the laptop shut. Looking at the roof, she closes her eyes and sighs.
EXT. FRONT OF BOOK SHOP - NIGHT
Simon and Lucy are locking the store when Ashley runs up with another girl in tow. Belle is in her early twenties, has a cute bob, and wears a lot of makeup.
ASHLEY
(to Lucy)
Oh wow I was sure we were
going to miss you! I tried
texting but didn’t get an answer.
BELLE
(to Lucy)
Is it true you leave your
mobile off? That’s so weird.
ASHLEY
Belle felt like drinks, and
it’s more fun if you guys come too.
BELLE
Definitely!
SIMON
Sure.
LUCY
I-
ASHLEY
Don’t say no, just come.
Ashley links arms with Lucy and drags her down the street. Simon and Belle fall in step behind them.
INT. BAR - NIGHT
The bar is relatively quiet. Lucy, Simon and Belle are having drinks while Ashley is at the bar ordering. The atmosphere is cheerful, with Belle laughing and Simon smiling.
SIMON
That’s my online dating
story. Never again.
BELLE
Come on, you have to
get back out there.
SIMON
Oh I’m all for dating.
(he winks at Lucy)
My new rule is in-person only.
Lucy looks away, pretending not to notice. Ashley returns to the table with a tray of shooters.
BELLE
(taking a shooter)
Work is going to be ugly tomorrow.
ASHLEY
My heart needs medicating.
BELLE
You talking about that
mystery lover? Girl, move on.
ASHLEY
I would, but being with him
is like being on something.
BELLE
That’s only now, while
you’re infatuated.
Lucy, looking annoyed, grabs a shooter.
ASHLEY
(picking up a glass)
You’re drinking with
me? Luce, I’m touched.
Ashley clinks glasses with Lucy and together they take a shot.
BELLE
No offence Ashley, but
it’s time to grow up.
SIMON
I agree with Belle. Passionate
love is an idealized illusion.
ASHLEY
(handing Lucy another shooter)
Bottoms up.
Ashley and Lucy have another shooter each.
BELLE
You can fall in love with
a lot of people. It’s not as
special or rare as you think.
LUCY
(slamming down the empty glass)
Why pretend the people we love are
easily replaceable? Why lie about
passion? Love makes people into heroes.
SIMON
Or murderers. Or tragic victims.
ASHLEY
Yeah, in books star-crossed lovers
jump off cliffs and drink poison.
LUCY
Exactly. Passion isn’t easy to
control, or comfortable. That’s
why people crave it, only to run
away from it. Thinking a new lover
will wipe the slate clean is ridiculous.
Most can’t reach the depths.
ASHLEY
Hear, hear.
BELLE
That’s a strange way to
think. Me, I like to have fun.
SIMON
Me too. I prefer to pick and
choose my passionate encounters.
LUCY
True passion is wild, and
will never do what it’s told.
(picking up her bag)
I’m going home.
Standing up Lucy staggers a little, realizing she’s drunk. Turning to leave she comes face to face with Michael.
MICHAEL
Do you want me to walk you out?
LUCY
No, I’m good.
Stepping around him, a little unsteady, she heads for the exit. Michael watches her leave, a strange expression on his face.
EXT. INNER CITY PARK - DAY
Lucy lounges on the grass wearing sunglasses and sipping coffee. Her sandwich is untouched. Ashley lies with one arm over her face.
ASHLEY
(low voice)
Why did I get so drunk?
Michael sits on the grass beside her.
MICHAEL
Because you’re an idiot.
ASHLEY
Did you bring them?
He passes her a shopping bag and bottle of water. With a groan Ashley sits up, opens the water, and takes the pills out of the bag, tipping two into her hand.
ASHLEY (CONT’D)
(swallowing the pills)
You’re my favorite brother.
MICHAEL
I’m your only brother.
ASHLEY
Yep, you win by default.
(she laughs, then winces)
Ow.
MICHAEL
(to Lucy)
Are you going to eat that?
LUCY
(shaking her head)
You can have it.
Michael picks up half the sandwich, eating it in two gulps.
MICHAEL
(to Lucy)
Can I see your phone?
Lifting her sunglasses onto her head, Lucy stares at him for a second before taking her mobile from her bag, turning it on, and giving it to him.
Michael enters a series of digits.
MICHAEL (CONT’D)
(to Lucy)
That’s my number, if you
ever want to get a drink.
LUCY
Are you hitting on me?
MICHAEL
(to Lucy)
No. Didn’t Ash tell you I’m gay?
ASHLEY
(to Michael)
Why would we talk about you?
You’re always rude to her.
LUCY
I thought you didn’t like me?
Why do you want to hang out?
MICHAEL
Changed my mind.
ASHLEY
He’s weird like that.
MICHAEL
(to Lucy)
Truth is, now I think you’re kinda cool.
Standing up, Michael grabs the other half of the sandwich before waving and sauntering away.
ASHLEY
Did not see that coming.
LUCY
What just happened?
ASHLEY
Michael decided you’re friends.
Wake me up when lunch is over.
Ashley lies back down on the grass. Frowning, Lucy pulls her sunglasses over her eyes.
INT. BOOK SHOP - DAY
When Simon returns from lunch, Lucy is sitting beside the cash register reading.
SIMON
Hey.
She looks up and gives a nod before returning her attention to the book.
SIMON (CONT’D)
I was thinking we could
go for a proper dinner
tonight. Is Italian okay?
When Lucy hesitates, Simon leans on the counter.
SIMON (CONT’D)
If tonight’s no good, just pick
another day and let me know.
Lucy closes the book she’s reading and considers Simon carefully for a few moments.
LUCY
I’m flattered, but we can’t date.
SIMON
Why not?
LUCY
For a lot of reasons. Truth is,
explaining myself won’t help.
SIMON
Is it because we work together?
LUCY
No.
SIMON
Are you seeing someone?
LUCY
That’s not the point.
SIMON
Then what is it? How can you
decide we don’t match without
giving us a chance?
LUCY
I’m sorry, the answer’s no.
Simon stands up straight.
SIMON
You know you’re being rude,
right? Why not try dating
and see how it goes?
Lucy stands up.
LUCY
Simon, if I found you attractive, if I
really felt something, I’d be with you
already. Thing is, I don’t. Meals and
movies won’t make a difference.
SIMON
That’s a shortsighted
approach. A lot of friends
fall in love while dating.
LUCY
Look, this is who I am.
It’s not going to happen.
Slamming the book shut, Lucy gets up and heads into the back room.
EXT. SEASIDE CLIFF - DAY
Standing on a cliff overlooking the sea, Lucy turns her head and is startled to find Jayden standing beside her.
LUCY
Why am I here with you?
JAYDEN
Do you still want to jump?
LUCY
I never did, in the real world.
I don’t know why my dreams keep
bringing me to this place.
JAYDEN
You’re the one who keeps
choosing to be here.
LUCY
I don’t want to jump.
JAYDEN
But you’re still here,
on this cliff. When are
you going to leave?
Lucy looks out at the churning sea.
LUCY
Soon, I think.
Jayden takes her hand, and they stare at the seascape in silence.
EXT. INNER CITY PARK - DAY
Lucy, Ashley, and Belle are eating lunch in the park in their work uniforms. The sky is clear.
BELLE
Just so you know, I’m in
charge of your goodbye
morning tea. Again.
ASHLEY
I’m definitely
leaving this time.
BELLE
You always say that, yet
you always end up staying.
ASHLEY
This is different.
BELLE
(to Ashley)
No cake until I see a post
about you leaving on Facebook.
(to Lucy)
Are you dating that guy from your work?
LUCY
No.
BELLE
You should.
Lucy keeps eating.
ASHLEY
(to Lucy)
Ignore her, she’s pushy.
BELLE
(to Lucy)
What’s wrong with a little
advice? You’re obviously one
of those intense chicks who
thinks too much.
(to Ashley)
By the way, my roommate who
picked me up the other night,
wants Michael’s number.
ASHLEY
Now is a bad time
to ask out my brother.
BELLE
Why? He’s been single for ages.
ASHLEY
His boyfriend died, it’s
not the same as a break-up.
LUCY
His boyfriend died?
ASHLEY
Yeah, cancer. This Saturday is
the anniversary of Tim’s death.
I doubt Michael will be in the
mood to socialize.
LUCY
(to Ashley)
Are you spending the day with him?
ASHLEY
No, but he’s agreed to have
breakfast. That’s something.
BELLE
We should surprise him with
a blind date on Saturday night.
He obviously needs to move on.
LUCY
(to Belle)
Why?
BELLE
Excuse me?
LUCY
Why does he need to move on if he’s
still grieving? Leave him alone. You
wouldn’t ask someone with a gaping
leg wound to get up and run.
Grabbing what’s left of her lunch, Lucy stands.
LUCY
I’m going back to work.
Taking out her mobile while walking away, she switches it on.
BELLE
(heard in the distance)
That girl is so freakin’ weird.
CU of Lucy’s phone shows she’s sending her first ever text to Michael. We hear the words as they appear onscreen.
LUCY (V.O.)
Come over Saturday. Will cook
dinner. Talk or sit in silence,
cry or keep the tears in.
Whatever. Just don’t be alone.
After a few seconds her phone beeps. CU of the screen shows a text from Michael. We hear his words in his voice as she reads the message.
MICHAEL (V.O.)
Text me the address.
INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
Peter sits across from Lucy in their usual coffee shop.
They both have a piece of chocolate cake and a cup of coffee. The place is empty of other patrons and only a few staff are behind the counter.
PETER
Let me get this straight: the
person with endless walls keeping
her emotions in check, is going to
help a grieving lover? That’s priceless.
LUCY
Don’t be rude.
PETER
Do me one favor. Get
rid of that goddamn clock.
LUCY
What?
PETER
On your bedside table. The
digital numbers aren’t helping.
Use the alarm on your phone.
LUCY
I need to check the time
when I wake up in the night.
PETER
I’m the superstitious
one, not you, remember?
We should never have talked
about signs and symbols.
LUCY
But the promise in those numbers
helps me go back to sleep.
PETER
Lucy, you know the universe
doesn’t keep its promises.
INT. LUCY’S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Lucy wakes up, rolling over to turn on her lamp. The digital clock reads 2:34am.
LUCY
Consecutive numbers,
and he ruins it.
Getting out of bed, she kneels next to the wall and unplugs the clock. Picking it up, she walks to her desk, opens the bottom drawer, and places the digital clock inside.
Closing the drawer, she looks at the framed picture of Peter on her desk.
LUCY
(to Peter in the photo)
Still nagging, even
when you’re dead.
Getting back into bed, she turns off the lamp.
INT. BOOK SHOP - DAY
Lucy sits on a small stool, packing new books onto the store’s shelves, carefully checking they’re in alphabetical order. Simon walks up carrying her mobile.
SIMON
Your phone keeps beeping.
LUCY
(taking the phone)
Thanks.
SIMON
Why is Ashley sending
you lists of food?
LUCY
(reading the texts)
Oh, I promised to cook her
brother dinner on Saturday.
Simon leans against the bookshelf and folds his arms.
SIMON
You’re having that obnoxious
guy over for dinner? Typical.
LUCY
What?
SIMON
A dick like Michael
gets invited to your
house, but a nice guy
like me can’t buy you dinner.
LUCY
Um, you’re misreading the situation.
SIMON
Such bullshit. Clearly you get
off on men treating you badly.
I mean, your ex obviously sucked
since you’re such a hot mess.
LUCY
(standing up)
Excuse me?
SIMON
Here I am, buying coffee,
inviting you out, going to
drinks with your friends, and
still you treat me like I’m nothing.
(stepping closer, invading
Lucy’s personal space)
Maybe if I stopped being a
nice guy I’d get somewhere.
LUCY
Here’s a tip: labelling yourself the
nice guy is usually proof you aren’t
one. I don’t owe you anything, including
an explanation. Stay out of my personal life.
Sitting back down on the stool, she picks up a few books and starts placing them on the shelf. Simon walks away.
LUCY (CONT’D)
(muttering to herself)
He should ask out Belle. They’re
perfect for each other.
INT. LUCY’S APARTMENT - NIGHT
Lucy’s dining table is set for two, along with wine and water. A pot bubbles on the stove.
Opening a drawer, she takes out the parcel that recently arrived and unpacks the maple leaf salt and pepper shakers, filling them before placing them on the table.
At the sound of a knock on the door, she moves to open it, revealing a pale-looking Michael on the other side.
LUCY
Come in.
Michael follows Lucy into the apartment.
MICHAEL
Smells good.
LUCY
It should. Ashley’s been sending
me cooking tips all afternoon.
Michael smiles a little, still giving off a tense and sad vibe.
LUCY
Take a seat.
Michael sits. Lucy grabs the pot from the stove, and serves the meal. The two eat in silence for a while.
LUCY
At least the day’s almost over.
MICHAEL
Yeah.
Reaching across, he picks up the bottle of wine and the bottle opener.
MICHAEL
So who died?
LUCY
(putting down her spoon)
Peter was my boyfriend’s
best friend, since they were
kids. He was on his way to
meet me and got in an accident.
MICHAEL
I’m sorry. Does your
boyfriend live here too?
LUCY
No, we broke up.
MICHAEL
Because of what happened?
LUCY
Mm. Grief was harder
to handle than we thought.
MICHAEL
I know what you mean.
(gulps his wine)
Books make it sound neat,
with the stages and shit,
but it’s nothing like that.
LUCY
(nodding)
A hurricane, every now
and then. Never the emotion
you’re expecting either.
They start eating again. Looking up from her food, Lucy finds Michael quietly crying.
MICHAEL
I can’t believe he left me here.
Placing his hands over his face, he sobs. Lucy puts down her spoon but makes no move to touch.
Soon Michael rubs his face, the tears subsiding.
MICHAEL
For months I saved sleeping pills.
When I had enough, turns out I
couldn’t take them. Losing Tim hurt
so many people. How could I inflict
pain on people that way? Every night
I dreamt Tim yelling at me not to be
an idiot. Brushing my teeth, I’d stare
at the bottle. Even knowing I’d never
swallow them it still took a long time
to throw those pills in the trash.
Lucy nods, taking a gulp of her wine.
MICHAEL (CONT’D)
Sorry if that’s too much.
Lucy watches Michael drink the rest of the wine in his glass.
LUCY
After James, my ex, went overseas,
I’d go to this cliff overlooking a
beach. We hung out there in college.
I’d stand on the edge for hours.
Nothing planned, but it got harder
to walk away; I guess I didn’t want
to end things, but I didn’t want to
go forward either. One day my best
friend Kate brought her girlfriend
there, thinking it would be romantic.
MICHAEL
Bet she freaked.
LUCY
Worse, I couldn’t explain what
I was doing, because I wasn’t
sure. I felt ashamed for scaring
them, but angry too, as if they
were intruding on a private moment.
Michael pours them both more wine. They sip in comfortable silence.
MICHAEL
I like your salt and pepper shakers.
LUCY
Thanks. They’re a gift from James.
MICHAEL
Your ex?
LUCY
Yeah, he sends gifts. The maple
leaf means different things around
the world, but when we were in Japan
someone told us it’s a symbol for
lovers, so we stick with that. Only
time we teamed up to win the game.
Peter sulked for days.
MICHAEL
The game?
LUCY
It’s stupid. Say you’re in a
restaurant, and the menu has
sparrows printed across the
top. We’d Google sparrows,
choose a meaning each, and
argue the hell out of them.
MICHAEL
Harmless fun.
LUCY
(twirling wineglass)
Not so harmless anymore; the
game’s gotten warped in my head.
I’m always on the lookout for good
symbols, as if they can keep me safe.
MICHAEL
(placing a hand over Lucy’s
to stop the twirling)
Tim liked healing crystals,
and now I can’t stop buying
them. I have boxes at home.
(removes his hand)
Don’t tell Ashley,
though. She’ll worry.
Lucy drinks the rest of her wine, and Michael follows her lead.
MICHAEL
Thanks for having me over.
This is the first time I’ve
eaten at someone’s place
beside my folk’s since it happened.
LUCY
Thanks for coming. It’s the
first time I’ve cooked dinner
for someone since I moved in.
They begin eating again.
EXT. PARK WITH LAKE - DAY
Lucy jogs around the lake in the park alone, dressed in all-black workout wear instead of grey sweats.
The other people in the park speed up, becoming little more than a blur, making it clear this is a dream. Lucy maintains a steady pace, her jogging rhythm unaffected by the strange environment.
Approaching a bench, she recognizes the seated dark-clad figure as Jordan, and slows down.
One arm draped across the back of the bench, he smiles at her.
LUCY
What are you doing here?
JORDAN
Watching you. I like
the way you move.
Lucy walks over to the bench and sits down beside him.
LUCY
This isn’t your usual scene.
Jordan shrugs.
LUCY (CONT’D)
Nothing to say?
JORDAN
You know me better than that.
LUCY
Out with it then.
Leaning forward, Jordan grabs a handful of her hair, tugging her face closer. He kisses her roughly, then lets go, pulling back suddenly.
JORDAN
Round and around and around.
LUCY
Kind of the point.
JORDAN
No, it isn’t. Tell me,
why do people run here
rather than on the streets,
or on a treadmill?
Before she can answer, he points at the centre of the lake.
JORDAN (CONT’D)
They come for the view. You
run circles around this lake
and never glance inwards.
Lucy peers in the direction he’s pointing. On the small island she makes out a silhouette amongst the undergrowth.
LUCY
Is someone there?
She glances at Jordan to find him watching her.
JORDAN
You tell me.
Looking back at the island, she gets up and walks toward the water. From Lucy’s POV the figure becomes clearer: face still shadowed, but the body outline visible. The ambient sounds of the park fade until the world is silent.
LUCY
(whispering)
James? Is that you?
INT. LUCY’S APARTMENT - DAY
Michael wakes up. Covered in a blanket, it’s clear he spent the night on Lucy’s sofa.
Lucy is in the kitchen making coffee. Noticing he’s awake, she walks over and passes him a cup.
MICHAEL
Thanks.
LUCY
Did you sleep okay?
MICHAEL
Better than expected.
They sip their drinks, slowly waking up.
MICHAEL
You know if Tim were
alive, I don’t think
I could watch him leave.
LUCY
If I wanted James to heal,
I couldn’t let him stay.
INT. BOOK SHOP - DAY
Lucy is serving a customer when Simon appears from amongst the shelves.
SIMON
I’m going for lunch.
LUCY
(eyes briefly flickering his way)
Okay.
Finishing the sale, she passes the bag to the customer.
When she’s alone in the store, she walks over to the nearest shelf, runs a hand across the titles, and takes a deep breath.
LUCY (V.O.)
The scent of books... So
calming. The residents of
these shelves live quietly
side by side, thousands of
worlds in a row. Best of all,
I don’t belong to any of them.
No matter how many times I visit,
my actions have no impact.
(leans head against shelf)
Not one of these deaths is my fault.
Her mobile phone beeps. Walking back around the counter, she picks it up from under the till and reads the text message.
With a gasp she sits on the stool clumsily, legs shaky. Stunned, she stares at the phone as if mesmerized.
EXT. FIELD - DAY
Sitting in an field, Lucy watches a handful of clouds in the sky. Closing her eyes, she soaks up the sunlight.
JAYDEN
Lucy.
Opening her eyes, she finds Jayden and Jordan standing in front of her. Panicked, she scrambles to her feet.
LUCY
You can’t be in the same dream!
JAYDEN
Why did you do this to us?
JORDAN
(to Jayden)
We know why.
JAYDEN
I want to hear her say it.
Lucy backs up a couple of steps, terrified.
LUCY
This isn’t allowed to happen.
JAYDEN
Splitting memories of
me into two people.
JORDAN
Do you hate me that much?
LUCY
How could I hate James?
Seeing his face was too
hard, but the memories
are important: I need them.
JORDAN
(with a sad smile)
Even the dark and wild ones.
LUCY
Why is this happening?
JAYDEN
You know why.
Jordan walks up to Lucy, leans forward, and whispers in her ear.
JORDAN
(whispering)
Because I’m coming home.
When he leans back, his face flickers like a glitching TV or computer screen.
INT. LUCY’S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Lucy jerks awake in bed. Picking up her phone, she re-opens the text message from the day before.
JAMES (V.O.)
Coming back for mum & dads anniversary.
Flight details below. Want to pick me
up? If not, ignore this, will get a cab.
Not sure why I’m asking since you never
reply to emails. Maybe a stubborn part
of me hopes you want to see me as much
as I want to see you. J
EXT. INNER CITY PARK - DAY
Lucy is eating lunch on the grass when Michael plops himself next to her.
MICHAEL
Mind some company?
LUCY
Course not. I
thought Ash might show.
MICHAEL
She took a day off
for a job interview.
Lucy offers Michael her sushi and he takes a piece.
MICHAEL
This morning I did laundry,
and that’s my excitement
for the week. What about you?
LUCY
James is coming back.
MICHAEL
Woah. I thought you said his
contract was for another year?
LUCY
His parents are celebrating
their 25th wedding anniversary.
MICHAEL
What are you going to do?
LUCY
I don’t know.
(pause)
I’m scared.
MICHAEL
Of course you are. You’re
still in love with him.
LUCY
Everything went so wrong.
MICHAEL
Nobody’s asking you to dive
in the deep end. Just listen
to the guy. He probably has
a lot he wants to say, and is
sure to be as scared as you are.
LUCY
I doubt it.
MICHAEL
Lucy, he lost his best friend, his
girlfriend, and transferred to
another country. You’ve gone through
a lot, but I’m guessing he has too.
LUCY
Maybe.
MICHAEL
What are you really afraid of?
LUCY
(mumbling)
It’s stupid.
MICHAEL
Say it, you’ll feel better.
LUCY
What if he dies one day?
MICHAEL
That’s not stupid. The person
you love can die; it happened
to me, and I survived. Well,
barely. Wouldn’t give up
those memories, though.
LUCY
I’m a coward.
MICHAEL
No, you’ve experienced loss,
and learnt life isn’t easy.
The panic doesn’t go away;
not really, deep down. But
you can’t let that bullshit win.
LUCY
Thanks.
MICHAEL
When you two sort it
out, invite me over.
(stealing another
piece of sushi)
I think James and
I will get along.
INT. LUCY’S APARTMENT - NIGHT
Seated at her dining table, Lucy is about to eat dinner. Staring at the first mouthful for a few seconds, she puts down the fork.
Picking up her mobile phone, she reads James’ text again. Then she types a text back.
LUCY (V.O.)
I’m not the same.
After pressing send she places the phone on the table. Within seconds, it beeps. She reads the message.
JAMES (V.O.)
Neither am I.
Placing her phone down, she exits the room, returning with her laptop. Lucy eats a few mouthfuls of food while waiting for her computer to boot up.
She opens her mail account, clicks on the folder marked “J”, and we hear James’ voice as she reads his emails for the rest of the night.
JAMES (V.O.)
You think I blame you but
I blame myself. He wanted
to go to the movies, I told
him to have coffee with you
instead... Tried to go on a
date. She ordered white wine
and I remembered talking you
into trying it. Remember when
you spat it all over me?... I’d
never grieved before, not really,
and I underestimated how hard
it would be... Your favorite
author has a new novel out, I
saw it in a bookstore window...
Not sure if you’re reading these,
but I can’t stop writing them...
Wish you were here to see the sunrise...
MONTAGE
-Lucy eating the rest of her dinner.
-Lucy opening the next of the emails in the folder.
-Lucy drinking a coffee at the computer.
-Lucy with a tear running down her cheek.
-CU of the clock on the wall at 3am.
-Lucy leaning on her hand, half-asleep but still reading.
-The sun rising.
-Lucy closing her laptop.
END OF MONTAGE
EXT. CITY STREET - NIGHT
Walking home from work, yawning, Lucy pauses at a street corner, as if struck by an idea. She changes direction.
Stopping in front of an apartment block, she stares at one of the windows. The lights are off and the apartment is empty.
FLASHBACK TO:
EXT. APARTMENT - NIGHT (18 MONTHS AGO)
The silhouette of a man and a woman can be seen through the window of the same apartment.
LUCY
(screaming)
What the hell is your problem!
JAMES
(screaming)
My problem? You’re the
one with the problem!
The sound of smashing glass can be heard.
JAMES
(screaming)
What the hell are you doing?
LUCY
(just get out)
Just get out. Get out!
More sounds of crashing furniture.
BACK TO PRESENT
Lucy pulls her gaze from the apartment and associated memories. Noting the setting sun, she hurries down the street.
INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
Peter sits across from Lucy in their usual coffee shop. Again, they each have a cup of coffee in front of them, but no cake. This time the shop is completely deserted.
PETER
No food?
LUCY
You don’t need to eat, remember?
PETER
Thanks for this. I wanted
to talk to you about James.
LUCY
Does your advice count? Being
his best friend and all.
PETER
Well we’re inside your head,
so I think it balances out.
LUCY
Alright, I’m listening.
PETER
There’s a small chance you might mess each
other up worse than last time. But maybe
not. And I don’t think the people in your
life right now are capable of waking you up.
LUCY
Matchmaking again, I see.
PETER
Give it another try Luce. Please.
LUCY
Why would I take your advice?
You couldn’t even stay alive.
PETER
I know, right?
(picks up his coffee and takes a sip)
Next time there better be cake.
EXT. INNER CITY PARK - DAY
Lucy and Ashley, wearing workwear, are sitting on the grass having lunch. Ashley appears subdued.
ASHLEY
I got a job offer.
LUCY
That’s so great!
ASHLEY
(in a lackluster voice)
Yeah.
LUCY
You’re not excited?
ASHLEY
I’ve worked at the same
place since college.
My boyfriend owns it.
LUCY
And now he’s your ex,
you want to leave.
ASHLEY
No, I mean he’s been my
ex before and I’ve stayed.
LUCY
Is the pay better at the new place?
ASHLEY
No. I want to leave
because his wife has
started coming in every day.
Lucy stares in silence for a few seconds at Ashley.
LUCY
I see.
ASHLEY
This morning I put my resignation
on his desk. He went crazy, but
for the first time his words
couldn’t reach me. I felt... tired.
LUCY
How long have you
been seeing each other?
ASHLEY
Since college. We broke up a
few times, then got back
together. And yes he’s been
married the whole time.
LUCY
So you’re definitely taking
the new job? Is it nearby?
I hope we can still have lunch.
ASHLEY
That’s it? Aren’t you disgusted?
LUCY
Who am I to judge? The
last few years have
shown me life is complicated.
ASHLEY
I know what you mean. This isn’t
where I thought I’d be either.
LUCY
We’re friends, right?
ASHLEY
Well I did force you into it.
LUCY
For my own good. Now
you’re stuck with me.
Ashley looks down at her hands, and sniffs, obviously on the verge of crying.
LUCY (CONT’D)
Did you bring any Japanese biscuits?
ASHLEY
No. Michael told me you hate them.
LUCY
See? You weren’t the only
one with a shocking secret.
ASHLEY
(surprised into a smile)
Yeah ‘cause that’s the same thing.
INT. BOOK SHOP - DAY
Ken walks into the bookstore. Lucy is alone, cleaning the counter since business is quiet.
LUCY
Hey dad. Is something wrong?
KEN
No, I was in the area for
a meeting and thought I’d
see if you wanted to have lunch.
LUCY
Oh, I had to take the early
break, Simon was meeting someone.
KEN
How are you? I was worried,
after the car accident.
LUCY
I think you’ve been worried
about me for a while.
KEN
That’s what parents do: we worry.
LUCY
I know. I just- I wish
it had been different.
KEN
So do I, love. Seeing you go
through this has been rough.
LUCY
Making you and mom worry, I’m
sorry about that, but I needed to-
KEN
I know love. You were figuring
things out. Take your time. I’m
always here if you need me.
Moving around the counter, Lucy runs to her dad and hugs him. Stunned, he freezes for a second before returning the hug awkwardly.
KEN
(stepping back and
clearing his throat)
Well, I’ll let you
get back to work.
LUCY
Okay. Tell mom I’ll call
her on the weekend.
KEN
I’m sure she’ll love that.
Ken nods, and leaves the store.
INT. LUCY’S APARTMENT - NIGHT
Reading a book on the sofa, Lucy is startled by a knock at the door. She opens it cautiously to find Kate standing outside.
LUCY
What are you doing here? Come in.
Lucy steps aside, letting Kate into the apartment. Kate appears nervous and flustered.
LUCY (CONT’D)
Are you alright?
KATE
Yeah, I’m fine. I was just passing,
and thought I’d drop by. Um, here.
Kate passes Lucy a plastic bag.
LUCY
You thought you’d drop by,
for the first time ever?
Opening the bag, Lucy pulls out a loaf of bread and a tin of sardines. Perplexed, she places them on the table.
LUCY
And brought me loaf and fishes?
Is this like a religious thing?
Cause I don’t get it.
KATE
Okay, I was at the shops picking
up sardines for Miss Bella-
LUCY
Who’s Miss Bella?
KATE
My cat, remember? Anyhow, I’d
grabbed the bread and was about
to go buy dinner when Jill rang me.
She said James is coming home.
LUCY
So you ran out of the store
and came straight here?
KATE
Pretty much.
Kate looks wary, like she’s expecting Lucy to yell. Instead, Lucy hugs her. Surprised, Kate hugs her back.
LUCY
You’re a good friend. Here,
sit, I’ll make you a cup of
tea. Kate takes a seat at the
table while Lucy puts the kettle on.
KATE
Do you have anything to
eat? I’m starving.
(looking around)
Your apartment’s really cute
by the way. Sorry for barging
in. I know you don’t like visitors.
LUCY
(removing food from
the refrigerator)
I don’t think I
mind so much anymore.
KATE
Really? That’s great.
Lucy puts a bowl of leftovers in the microwave.
KATE
So did you know he was coming back?
LUCY
Yeah.
KATE
Who told you?
LUCY
He did. He messaged me.
Shocked, Kate stares at Lucy for a few seconds. Lucy avoids her gaze, pottering around the kitchen, getting cutlery and making tea.
KATE
Do you want to talk about it?
Lucy shakes her head, turning to face the microwave.
KATE (CONT’D)
If you do, I’m here. Any time.
Lucy watches the bowl spin.
LUCY (V.O.)
Maybe, in Kate’s mind, I’m
still on the edge of that
cliff. Behind the smiles and
the laughter, she’s afraid for me.
Lucy takes the food out of the microwave, and places it in front of her friend.
LUCY
You know Kate, I really
am going to be okay.
Thanks for worrying,
and having my back.
KATE
(smiling)
What are best friends for?
EXT. FIELD - DAY
Lucy stands in an empty field, looking at a sky filled with storm clouds. Rain begins falling, lightly at first. She breaks into a run.
The storm picks up; soon the rain is pounding down. She keeps moving, struggling as it becomes harder to see. Lightning and thunder strike, then again, sounding closer the second time.
Sobbing as the wind whips at her, she trips. Staggering to her feet, she trips again. Kneeling on the ground, she tries to get up, but the conditions make it impossible.
LUCY
Help! Help me!
She manages to stand. As she’s about to fall again, someone steadies her. She meets Peter’s gaze.
PETER
(yelling)
Take my hand.
She grabs his outstretched fingers, and Peter leads her through the storm. The conditions become rougher until she can barely see.
Suddenly the noise and rain disappear: she staggers into a quiet clearing behind Peter.
They’re in a small circular space untouched by the wild weather, as if an invisible wall has created a protected place.
PETER
That out there really
frightens you, doesn’t it?
LUCY
Where are we?
PETER
In the eye of the storm.
LUCY
Peter-
PETER
I know a storm of emotion
scares you, but keep moving
forward. You’ll find the calm.
LUCY
I wish you were here.
PETER
Me too. And about that Michael
guy: I like him. Although good
luck keeping you two in line.
LUCY
Hey!
Breaking into laughter, Peter launches himself back into the storm with a wave.
EXT. CAFE BALCONY - DAY
Lucy and Ashley share a table on the balcony of a busy cafe. They both have a coffee in front of them.
ASHLEY
This is the first time we’ve hung
out on a weekend. I’m glad you called.
LUCY
I need to tell you something.
ASHLEY
Are you okay? You’re really pale.
LUCY
(taking a deep breath)
This is the first time I’ve
had coffee at a place like
this in almost two years.
ASHLEY
Really? How come?
LUCY
I used to have coffee with
my friend Peter every week.
College got busy, and I cancelled
a lot. I was going to cancel
again, but he told me I’d
used up my three strikes.
Lucy pauses, and takes a sip of the coffee, hand clearly shaking.
LUCY (CONT’D)
When a thunderstorm broke,
Peter insisted on picking
me up. But on the way there
was an accident and he died.
ASHLEY
Oh my God, I’m so sorry Lucy.
LUCY
Peter was also my boyfriend’s
best friend. We thought we’d
get through it, but the grief
and the guilt was too much. We
broke up, and he went overseas.
I dropped out of college, and
mostly tried to survive.
Lucy lifts the coffee again, fingers shaking so badly she puts it back down. Ashley reaches across the table to pat Lucy’s hand.
ASHLEY
I’m so glad you asked me to be here.
LUCY
I don’t want to hide anymore. Instead
of feeling safe, I’m starting to feel
trapped. I want to be brave.
ASHLEY
You are brave. No wonder you
and my brother get along.
I want to be brave, too.
LUCY
Did you take the job?
ASHLEY
(nodding)
And stopped taking his calls. For the
first time since I was a teenager, I’m
alone. Even when on a break I knew I could
call him, you know? This time, it’s different.
LUCY
That must be hell scary.
ASHLEY
It really is.
LUCY
Trust me, eventually
you’ll be okay Ash.
ASHLEY
I know. You too.
Lucy lifts her coffee cup with only the barest tremble now, holding it aloft in a casual toast.
LUCY
To future bravery.
Ashley clinks her cups against Lucy’s.
ASHLEY
(smiling)
We got this.
INT. AIRPORT TERMINAL - DAY
Lucy, dressed more colorfully than we’ve seen, walks slowly through a bustling airport terminal.
LUCY (V.O.)
Sometimes being alone is
the best choice. Standing
on your own two feet can
make you grow. Other times
being alone isn’t brave or
independent; not if it’s not
what you really want. People
can hide inside a relationship.
Or outside one. Right or wrong
doesn’t matter. What matters is
being truthful with yourself.
Lucy halts, and the camera moves to show JAMES walking toward. We see his face for the first time: physically he’s like a blend of Jayden and Jordan.
His eyes are locked on Lucy and he stops directly in front of her.
JAMES
Hello.
LUCY
Hello.
James reaches out, pushing Lucy’s hair from her face and stroking her cheek.
JAMES
You’re really here.
LUCY
(tearing up)
I missed you.
JAMES
(also tearing up)
I missed you too.
She smiles at him; the first time we’ve seen Lucy smile. James smiles back.
CREDITS.
END.
