Writer  -  Shaun Weldon

									
Act 1, Scene 1

Int. Nicholas’ Living Room

Chapter One – Tom

Two young men watch a movie. Nicholas fades in and out of it constantly looking at Tom who sits beside him. The main actress in the movie comes on and tom smiles.

Nicholas Narrates
These are the moments. The ones where I realise once again that he would never be mine. A smile, a flicker, a glance in any other direction than where I am and I know automatically he’s not thinking of me, and he never will. I know its silly of me to think about the notion that a guy like tom, a straight guy like tom would ever be with a gay guy. A guy like me.

Tom nudges Nicholas’ arm and smiles

Tom
You ok Nick?

Nicholas
Yeah. Course I am.

Tom
Cool.

Tom continues to smile

Nicholas Narrates
In this brief time that tom looks at me I feel my heart ache just a little bit. I know he doesn’t want me but that doesn’t stop me from wanting him. So I try to make the moment last, a futile effort to keep this subtle bond as strong as possible.

Nicholas 
Cool.

Tom turns back to the TV

Nicholas Narrates
As soon as it had come, it had gone again. The fleeting journey I often took into Tom’s eyes was over once again.

Nicholas watches as Tom ogles the actress.

Tom
Tasty, huh? (smiling)

Nicholas Narrates
I’ll say.

Nicholas
Yeah

Tom turns back to the TV

Nicholas Narrates
This is another brief exchange we often share: commenting on the delectability of women. The trouble is I’d rather have Tom on my plate than this floozy. (He looks at Tom) 

Nicholas begins to imagine what it is that Tom sees

* Tommy Vision *

See subscript

Actress in movie begins to smile alluringly and begins to entice Tom to her.

Actress
I want you Tom. I need you Tom.

Actress pulls out a lollipop and begins to tickle it with her tongue.

* End Tommy Vision *

Nicholas Narrates
How I wish he envied the girl and not the lollipop. I often sucked a lollipop in the hope that he would enjoy it. He’d always ignore me and go elsewhere.

The phone rings and Tom pauses the movie. Nicholas reaches over Tom and Tom looks on bashfully.

Nicholas
Hello? (Pauses) Yeah hold on a sec Mrs Stoke (looks at Tom) It’s your mum.

Nicholas passes the telephone to Tom. Then he pulls a lollipop from his pocket and sucks it.

Tom
(To Nicholas) Thanks. (Talks into phone) Hello?

Nicholas Narrates
(Looking at clock) On time as usual. His mum would always call at nine thirty to check up on him. I think she does it to make sure I haven’t turned him. Nobody knows, but I just know she dislikes me for some reason.

* Flashback Begins *

In this flashback we see snippets of Mrs Stoke in different situations reacting to the narration.

Int. Meeting Hall

Mrs Stoke is addressing fellow parents in a meeting hall.

Nicholas Narrates
Mrs Harriet Stoke is a very important person in the community.
Int. Lady’s Living Room

Mrs Stoke is sitting at a coffee table with other ladies, drinking tea and coffee. 

Nicholas Narrates
Mrs Stoke is quite the socialite. She’s in the ladies sewing circle, the PTA, the WI… you name it and she’s in it. I can’t stand her. 

Int. Tom’s Living Room/Int. Tom’s Dining Room

The living room is immaculately clean. Very uncluttered. Mrs Stoke is cleaning her best silverware at the dining room table.

Nicholas Narrates
Her house is always immaculate though. She cleans every single day and never misses a spot. However...

Ext. Tom’s Bedroom

Tom’s bedroom door has a ‘Keep Out’ sign on it. She walks past it.

Nicholas Narrates
There is one room she will not clean. A room she is not privileged to enter – Tom’s bedroom. 

We see Nicholas and Tom walking into Tom's room

Int. Tom’s Bedroom

Nicholas scans the room. Taking in everything around him.

Nicholas Narrates
Every time I enter is like the first time all over again.

Nicholas looks around and smiles. He notices posters on the walls and clothes piled in a heap in the corner of the room.

Nicholas Narrates
The scent of Tom fills my airways almost immediately. An intoxicating feeling comes over me and flushes my skin. His room is always prefect. Even the dirty laundry piled in the corner is perfect. Posters of his favourite movies littered the walls and...

Nicholas stops at the bedside table. There he sees a picture of Tom’s girlfriend Kate and a worn looking diary.

Nicholas Narrates
It makes me stop every time I see it. There on the bedside table beside a picture of Kate was the one thing that made me want Tom even more. The thing that gave him mystery. The one thing that nobody but him could touch – his diary.

* End Flashback *

Act 1, Scene 2

Int. Nicholas’ Living Room

Chapter Two – The Diary

Back to watching the movie.

Nicholas Narrates
For as long as I have known Tom that diary has been the one thing I had wanted to see more than anything else. He doesn’t tell me what he’s thinking but maybe he’ll tell the diary.

He looks back at the TV and the movie has ended.

Nicholas
Not a bad film, I quite enjoyed that

Tom
Yeah. That part where she took her top off was mint. She had a nice pair of tits...

Tom continues on while Nicholas thinks things over.

Nicholas Narrates
There he goes again with the boobs. I can just imagine what their sex life is like.

* Tommy Vision *

Int. Kate’s Bedroom

We see Tom and Kate kissing against the wall, wildly. He is holding her boobs and moving them around as she gropes her hands all over him.

* End Tommy Vision *

Nicholas stares into space still sucking the lollipop and shudders. His vision moves from Tom’s moving lips to his groin slowly as he narrates.

Nicholas Narrates
I stopped listening when he said ‘took her top off’, but there go his lips. He has the best lips (moves eyes down to his chest) I love watching his chest as he breathes in and out. The rise and fall reminds me of being on a beach looking out into the ocean. (Moves eyes to his groin) That part speaks for itself and is something I’d never see unless I perved on him in the gents. (Another thought kicks in) Oh my God! He has a hard on! You’d think by now I would be used to it because whenever he’s here and starts on about a woman, ping goes his penis! But every time it makes my pulse race because I know he is sexually aroused and for a minute moment of time I think he wants me to have it. But then I look back at his lips and realise...he’s thinking of her.

Tom
(Talking a little slower now) And her tits were definitely better than the actress in that other film. (Pauses watching the lollipop) Are you (gulps) OK?

Nicholas snaps out of it

Nicholas
Yeah, why?

Tom
No reason.

Nicholas
Oh (Long pause) You going to write about that film in your diary?

Tom
Maybe. I don’t normally write movies in their though to be honest.

Nicholas
So what do you write?

Tom
(Smiles) I’m not going to tell you for the thousandth time. Only I know what’s in that diary. You should know that by now Nick.

Nicholas
Yeah, I guess.

Tom
I’d better go anyway. I’m sure Kate is waiting. (gets stuff together) I’ll see you tomorrow then at Kate’s?

Int. Nicholas’ Hallway

Tom and Nicholas move to the hallway where Nicholas sees Tom out.

Nicholas
Of course. Can’t wait.

Nicholas Narrates
Yeah, can’t wait to kill myself at the thought of her!

Tom
Ok. See you then! Bye Nick.

Nicholas
See ya Tom.

He waves and shuts the door as Tom walks away. 

Int. Nicholas’ Living Room

Nicholas then walks over to the living room and clears up the mess left lying around.

Nicholas Narrates
He managed to allude me once again on the subject of the diary. The thing is: he was wrong. Only once did I manage to read the diary. In this brief period I learned that Tom was afraid of dogs which he only discovered after meeting my dog when we first got him. He never told me though because he thought he would be branded a sissy. Now every time he visits we shut the dog away. Knowing he has a sensitive nature makes me want him more. This is the only secret I know of his and I would kill to know more.

Nicholas turns off the lights and checks the doors are locked and goes up to bed. 

Int. Nicholas’ Bedroom

He begins to change for bed. He notices a picture of himself with Tom and Kate on his bedside table. Beside this is a picture of just him and Tom.

Nicholas Narrates
Its like a before and after. Before her and after her. I just wish it was in reverse.

Act 2, Scene 1

Ext. Kate’s Front Door

Chapter Three – Her

Nicholas arrives at Kate’s house. It’s night time and loud music is playing. He knocks on the door.

Nicholas Narrates
Well...tonight’s going to be fun! (He says sarcastically) 

The door is opened by a dark haired girl. Her name is Cheryl. She is wearing make-up and is very bubbly.

Cheryl
Hi Nick! I’m so glad you came!

Nicholas
Hi Cheryl! (He hugs her) So, where’s the birthday bitch?

Cheryl
She’s in the lounge with the others.

Nicholas
So who’s here?

Nicholas Narrates
I knew before she’d even answered.

As Cheryl reels off who’s present Nick also does a similar thing in his own head.

Cheryl
There’s me of course and then there’s Kelly, Hayley and Terri...

Nicholas Narrates
AKA The Slag Patrol! They’re notorious for sleeping around.

Cheryl
Then there’s me, you and Tom.

Nicholas Narrates
Cheryl’s my best girl friend. I’ve known her since junior school. She’s great, and you know how I feel about Tom.

Cheryl
Oh yeah and James. I’m sorry, I didn’t know Kate would invite him.

Nicholas
No I’ll be fine (smiling)

They both walk in

Nicholas Narrates
Wish I would be fine! I’ll never forget what happened in our first encounter...

*Flashback begins*

Int. Coffee Shop

Nicholas Narrates
We met a few months ago and fell for each other. 

Nicholas who is sitting with Cheryl glances at a table nearby and sees James sitting alone. He smiles at James who returns the favour.

Cheryl
He’s nice Nick. Go over and talk to him.

Nicholas
I couldn’t. What if he isn’t… you know, gay?

Cheryl
I know how you can find out if he’s interested. Look over at him again and smile again.

Nicholas
What?

Cheryl
Just do it.

Nicholas looks over at James and smiles. James makes eye contact and smiles back.

Cheryl
Has he smiled back yet?

Nicholas
Yes.

Cheryl
Good now do a little wave at him. 

Nicholas
Are you mad?

Cheryl
Just do it.

Nicholas raises his hand at James and smiles. James chuckles slightly and waves back.

Nicholas
He’s waved back. Now what?

Cheryl
Go over.

Nicholas
What? I can’t just go over! I don’t even know the guy.

James walks over to the table and sits beside Nicholas. He writes down a phone number on the napkin next to him and hands it to Nicholas.

Nicholas
Thanks.

James
No problem. I assume that’s what you were after? My name’s James.

Int. Nicholas’ Living Room

Nicholas and James are watching a movie and get closer and closer.

Nicholas Narrates
It started out well. We went out a few times as friends and it grew from there. Then one night over at my place things went a long way from friends.

Nicholas and James are all over each other. James begins to unbutton Nicholas’ shirt and kisses his chest then moves down and takes off his trousers. Nicholas smiles and enjoys what is obviously happening below. 

James
Do you love me?

Nicholas
I love you.

*flashback ends*

Int. Kate’s Hallway

Nicholas Narrates
It did go much further but I don’t really want to take this memory much further! This went on for a few weeks until I broke it off telling him I just wanted to be friends. I never did tell him the real reason why I broke it off. (He enters the living room and sees everyone and his mind shifts) Well here goes!

Act 2, Scene 2

Int. Kate’s Living Room

Kate is sat on Tom’s lap. Kelly, Hayley and Terri are sat chatting and drinking while James sits listening.
Nicholas looks at Kate with a fake smile. She gets up to greet him.

Kate
Hi Nick! I’m so glad you could make it! Cheryl said you might have to go to a family party tonight, we weren’t sure if you’d come or not. (Receives gift and card etc)

Nicholas Narrates
Good old Cheryl. She knows that 99% of the time I’d rather eat my own face than sit with the slag patrol. I knew she’d be ready with something.

Kate
Join the party! We were just talking about Kelly’s new boyfriend.

Kelly
No we weren’t.

Terri
We were about to though.

Kelly
Well his name is Michael and we me on Monday night at Lexy’s Party.

Tom
I thought you had broken up with Dan on Monday night?

Kelly
No me and Dan broke up last Monday. This Monday I broke up with Nathan.

Nick has another of his visions again.

*Begin Nick-o-vision*
Int. A Club

Kelly is dancing away in a crowded room. Michael shuffles beside her and they dance close together. 

Michael
So do you wanna come back to my place?

Kelly
Yeah sure. Just give me a second ok?

Kelly moves over a little to another guy, Nathan, who’s dancing elsewhere with another girl.

Kelly
Nathan, you’re dumped.

Nathan
(not paying attention to her) Yeah, ok, whatever.

*End Nick-o-vision*

Int. Kate’s Living Room

Terri
So what’s he like then?

Kelly
He has brown hair: short. Erm, he’s got green eyes I think. Oh god, he’s got an amazing body I could just bite him! Oh yeah and he has own flat too.

Hayley
Oh you’re so lucky Kelly. Me and John always end up sitting in his car.

Terri
Don’t you mean lying in it?

Nicholas and Cheryl chuckle to themselves.

Nicholas narrates
Looks like this evening might get interesting after all.

Hayley
What’s that supposed to mean?

Terri
It means that you would do it in a dustbin if you could squeeze in there with a guy.

Kelly pours James another drink.

Hayley
Your just jealous because I have a boyfriend and nobody likes you.

Terri
Actually I met somebody at Lexy’s party too.

Hayley
(sarcastically) Oh really! Who?

Terri
Dan.

James almost chokes on his drink and the room is pretty much silent .

Kelly
My Dan?

Terri
Yeah. But why should you care? You’re with Michael now.

Nicholas Narrates
They don’t call them the slag patrol for nothing you know.

Kelly
Me and Dan were together for two months nearly and that’s my longest relationship ever.

Kate
Me and Tom have been together for about 9 months now you know.

James
That’s long enough to have a baby together!

Kate smiles and laughs a little along with the slags and James. Cheryl and Nicholas grimace slightly. Tom is visibly uncomfortable.

Tom
Lets not get ahead of ourselves.

Cheryl
Well nonetheless, nine months is quite a good stretch. Well done guys.

Nicholas Narrates
Nine months is a stretch for those three put together!

Terri
God you guys, what’s your secret, how do you do it?

Hayley
Not in his car, I bet!

Everyone titters.

Hayley
What was that?

Terri
I said does anyone want a drink?

Terri gets up and sorts out drinks for everyone. While Kate talks to James and Kelly and Hayley, Tom comes to chat with Nicholas.

Tom
Hi. How are you both?

Cheryl
Fine thanks Tom. You ok?

Tom
Yeah I’m good. You ok Nick?

Nicholas
Yeah I’m great thanks Tom. What you been up to today?

Tom
Nothing much. Me and Kate went to see that vampire movie sequel.

Nicholas
Really? How was it?

Tom
Much better than the first film.

James interrupts everyone.

James
Let’s all play truth or dare!

Various drunken ‘yays’ are heard. Nicholas sits with Cheryl on the floor opposite Tom and Kate and near James and the slags. Kelly pours a drink into James' glass.

Hayley
This time we’ve decided to play the game a little differently. Rather than picking who to ask each person will spin a bottle on their turn to decide who they’ll ask. (Looks at Kelly) Your turn.

Kelly
(Finishes pouring James' drink) However, as we’re leaving it all to chance the decision for truth or dare come from the toss of a coin. Heads for truth and tails for dare.

Terri
(Puts bottle down in front of Kate) As you’re the birthday girl you’ll go first.

Nicholas watches carefully as Kate climbs off Tom and sits beside him holding his hand.

Nicholas Narrates
She never lets him go! He must feel so smothered.

Tom sees Nicholas looking at him and kisses Kate.

Nicholas Narrates
She brought that on herself the lucky bitch. I wish I was so lucky.

* Begin Vision*

Nicholas begins to imagine himself in Kate’s position being kissed by Tom. Nicholas sits on Tom’s lap and is held by Tom as they kiss.

*End Vision*

Kate
So, James, who did you last sleep with?

He looks at Nicholas and Nicholas glares back. James smiles and turns to Kate.

James
The last person I slept with was the bloke from the newsagents.

The slags all make noises of agreement and Kate, Cheryl, Nicholas and Tom all smile.

Hayley
Oh my god James! He’s so gorgeous! I didn’t think he was gay!

Cheryl
The best one’s always are. (She smiles)

Nicholas Narrates
I wish.

Kate
Ok James it’s your turn now.

James
Yay! Oh hold on, I need another drink.

Cheryl
I’ll get it for you James.

Hayley
No, no, no. I’ll get it. You sit down Cheryl, I’ll sort out drinks. Do you want the same again James?

James
Yes please Hayley. I don’t know what brand of coke you buy but it’s fab!

Nicholas Narrates
Fab? He never says ‘fab’. Nobody says ‘fab’! How can Kate just let this go on!

Nicholas is staring at Tom and Kate. James notices and whispers in Nicholas’ ear.

James
Is he why you broke up with me?

Nicholas turns his attention to James.

Nicholas
I don’t want to talk about us right now.

James
Well I do.

Nicholas
Can we please talk about it tomorrow?

James
(Taking another sip of his drink) Fine. Whatever!

James stands up and walks off with his drink in his hand.

Kate
Where are you going James?

James
Just going to the loo.

Kate 
Oh ok thanks for the info. (She says with disgust)

James leaves the room and Nicholas turns to Cheryl.

Nicholas
I think he might be drunk Cheryl.

Cheryl
Oh, there’s no might. He’s definitely drunk.

Nicholas
I’m worried he’ll say something. He seems quite upset with me. Maybe I should take him home.

Cheryl
That might be a good idea. Just take me with you please!

James strolls back in and slops down beside Nicholas a lot closer than last time.

Nicholas
Me and Cheryl are going to take you home James.

James
No way! I haven’t had my go yet! (Yelling)

Kate
What’s going on?

Nicholas
I was going to take James home. I think he’s a bit drunk.

James
I’m fine Nick. Just let me play the game! Must you always ruin my life!

Kate
Maybe you should let him make his own decisions Nick.

Int. Cinema Foyer

*Flashback begins*

Nicholas narrates
My hatred of that bitch is not completely without reason. Far from it actually. For one thing she is seeing the man I want more than anything else in this world and also she's a complete slag. The one thing that sticks out most though is one particular time when I first met her.

Nicholas, Tom and Kate are in a cinema foyer and Nicholas and Tom are joking with each other and generally having a good time. Kate is a little moody. 

Nicholas
I’m really looking forward to seeing this film. 

Tom
Why what’ve you heard?

Nicholas
There’s supposed to be some wicked special effects.

Tom
Does anyone get their kit off?

Kate
If they do I hope it’s the guys!

Nicholas Narrates
That’s just what I was thinking.

Tom
Speak for yourself.

Nicholas
Actually I did read that there may be some nudity and there’s some catfights too.

They reach the box office.

Cinema attendant
Hi there how can I help you?

Tom
Two for Dust please.

Cinema attendant
That’s eight pounds then please.

Tom
(handing over the money) There you go mate.

Cinema attendant
(Hands over the tickets and change) There’s your tickets and your change too. 

Tom
Cheers mate.

Cinema attendant
Thanks enjoy the film.

Tom and Kate go aside while Nicholas gets his tickets. 

Tom
I’m just going to go to the toilet.

Kate and Tom kiss and Tom goes off to the toilet. Kate takes Nicholas aside for a word.

Kate
Now Nick. This is the first time I've met you so I don't know you very well but for two months now Tom and me have been together and it's going very well. Up until today I was having a great time with him but now you've come along and you're taking away my thunder. He's paying more attention to you and I think we can both agree that he should be paying more attention to me, his girlfriend than to you who is, just his friend.

Nick
(He's shocked obviously) OK. That's fair enough. He should pay you more attention than anyone else but don't you think it's up to him who he pays attention to.

Kate
Of course, I completely agree. I'm not unreasonable Nick. All I'm saying really is that if I'm the only one here then he'll give me his undivided attention and then he won't need to choose. I'm thinking of his best interests here Nick.

Nick
Are you saying I should leave?

Kate 
No, of course not. I'm saying Tom and me should be alone. If you interpret that another way then that's your decision.

Tom returns and notices a distinct silence.

Tom
What’s up?

Kate
Nothing.

Tom
You alright Nick?

Nicholas
Yeah, fine.

*Flashback ends*

Int. Kate’s Living Room

Nicholas narrates
I just wish she'd drop off a bridge onto a pile of jagged rocks surrounded by man eating sharks...

His train of thought is interrupted by James prodding him.

James
Nicky, the bottle landed on you. You need to flip the coin.

James places the coin in Nicholas’ hand and his finger caresses him slightly. Nicholas looks and James and blushes slightly and snaps the coin away.

Nicholas
Thanks James. (Flips the coin)

Nicholas holds it over his hand.

Nicholas Narrates
I hate leaving these things to chance. The one consolation is I already know its going to be awful if Kate is in control.

He lifts his hand, the coin is heads.

Nicholas
Its heads. (Shows coin smiling)

Kate
Ok then Nicholas. Your truth is...How many times have you had sex?

Nicholas sees Tom is uncomfortable and he looks around the room. He smiles.

Nicholas Narrates
If she’d asked anyone else this question we’d be here all night waiting for them to count on their fingers and toes.

Nicholas
I’m sorry to tell you all this but I’m a virgin.

James coughs. Everybody reacts.

Nicholas Narrates
If he gives it away I’ll kill him!

Kate
It’s your turn to spin Nick (she says with a smile)

Nicholas Narrates
(Spins bottle) Please don’t land on James. Please, please, please. (It lands on James)

James
Its like destiny!

Nicholas glares at James as James flips the coin. James smiles.

James
Look at me tossing things for you again Nicky!

Nicholas continues to glare as everyone around him is forming an idea of what they’re on about. The coin drops and Nick picks it up and passes it to James.

Nicholas
Oh look its Tails. (squashing it in his hands)

James
Oh! Normally you give me head! (smiles)

Cheryl
Shut up James!

James sits laughing as everyone looks stunned. Nicholas looks at everyone’s faces. Cheryl is worried and Tom looks down at his fingers. He doesn’t make eye contact. The slags chuckle amongst themselves.

Nicholas Narrates
Whoever let James drink tonight needs seriously hurting! Shit! What do I do?! I cant just sit here silently. They’re all looking at me. Shit, shit, shit...!

Nicholas gets up and rushes out. He is swiftly followed by Cheryl. 

Act 2, Scene 3

Ext. Kate’s House

Nicholas walks off down the road, tears stream from his eyes. Cheryl reaches Nicholas and grabs him.

Cheryl
Come on Nick, come back inside.

Nicholas
That’s not how I wanted him to find out Cheryl! All Tom is going to think now is that I’m some kind of sex-mad homo! 

*Begin Vision*

Int. Studio setting

Nicholas is imagining being an OTT porn star wearing a ridiculous outfit and holding sex aids. He appears to be a completely crazed idiot!

*End Vision*

Ext. Kate’s House

Nicholas
(begins to cry again)

Cheryl hugs him

Cheryl
It’s fine Nick. Tom’s your friend, he’ll understand.

Nicholas
No he wont. I’m his best friend. I’ve known him since I was a kid. We know each other better than anyone else. I should’ve told him.

James walks out of the house towards them. Nick sees him.

James
Nicky, I’ve come to apologise.

Nicholas moves to grab him as Cheryl restrains him.

Nicholas
Let go Cheryl!!

Cheryl
You’re being stupid Nick. Just calm down. (Turns to James) I think you should leave.

James
I have to apologise though, I shouldn’t have done that to you Nicky. I’ve had too much to drink please let me apologise.

Nicholas
Get the fuck out of here James!! I hate you!!

James is clearly hurt by this and turns away and walks off.

Cheryl
Come on Nick, I’ll walk you home.

They walk on together. With Cheryl's arm around Nicholas' shoulders.

Cheryl
Everything will be fine darlin' you'll see.

Nicholas
How could he do that to me? He's normally so shy and quiet.

Cheryl
I think he'd been drinking.

Nicholas
James doesn't drink ever. He never has. His dad's a raging alcoholic for god's sake, he knows better.

Cheryl
I think they'd put something in James' drinks. I didn't say anything because I never saw them do it but they must've done something because Kelly was pouring his drinks all night.

Nicholas
Of course they have because the night wouldn't be complete without the slags trying to ruin a person's life! (Looks at Cheryl) Thanks for being a good friend Cheryl.

Cheryl
That's what I'm here for darlin'. 

She walks on with him down the street.

Act 3, Scene 1

Int. Nicholas’ Bedroom

Chapter Four – Coming To Terms

It is the morning after the night before and Nicholas lies in bed staring at the picture of him and Tom. The clock beside turns to 10 o’clock. Nicholas sighs.

Nicholas Narrates
Where do I go from here? Tom knows I’m gay, so does everyone else, James thinks I hate him – God poor James! I don’t hate him, I hate the slags who gave him the booze. 

The mobile phone rings. It shows that Tom is calling, he picks it up.

Nicholas
Hello?

Tom
Hey Nicky, you ok?

Nicholas
Yeah, I’m better thanks. What’s up?

Tom
I was calling to see if you were ok.

Nicholas
I’m fine now.

Tom
Cool. (pauses) I was wondering if you wanted to come over to mine today at about twelve-thirty?

Nicholas Narrates
He hardly ever asks me over because of how is mum is, something must be wrong!

Nicholas
Yeah. I can if you want...why?

Tom
Its nothing bad. I just need to talk to you about a few things.

Nicholas
About last night?

Tom
Sort of yeah. You don’t mind do you?

Nicholas
No, of course not its fine. I’ll see you later then.

Tom
Bye Nicky.

Nicholas
Bye Tom.

Nicholas gets out of bed wearing only his boxer shorts and goes to the bathroom. 

Int. Nicholas’ Bathroom

He looks at his reflection in the mirror.

Nicholas Narrates
He called me Nicky. Was it a joke? It didn’t sound like a joke, it sounded real. He never calls me Nicky. I still look as I did before, nothing has changed. Physically, I’m the same person so why did he call me Nicky?

Nicholas pulls down his boxers and gets into the shower immersing his head in the water. His mobile rings. It’s Tom again. Nicholas doesn’t hear it. 

Int. Nicholas’ Bedroom

When Nicholas finally comes back into the room with just a towel around his waist he doesn’t check his phone. He searched for clothes and in irrupted by the door bell. He listens at his door, he hears his mum talking. Then he moves away.

Nicholas Narrates
My mum bless her! She can be a bit scatty sometimes. 

* Flashback Begins *

Nicholas is in a towel, he removes it and opens the wardrobe, something falls on the floor and he bends down to pick it up. As he does so James enters to see his bare bum.

James
Hi sweet cheeks! (smiling)

* Flashback Ends *

Nicholas Narrates
It was ok then because we were together but ever since I always wear the towel just in case.

There’s a knock at his door and Nicholas opens it. James walks in. James looks at his partially naked ex and his speech stumbles.

James
I almost forgot how amazing your body is.

Nicholas
Hi Jay. I think we need to talk.

James
Yeah we do. (sits on the bed) I apologise about what happened last night. I don’t know what came over me.

Nicholas
I forgive you. I know it was the slags fault for letting you drink. I apologise for saying I hate you too. I don’t hate you. You know that, don’t you?

Nicholas takes holds of James’ hands.

James
I don’t really know how you feel about me. When we were together I thought you loved me, then you say we’re just friends then you’re saying you hate me. Tell me how you feel Nick. (Grabs his shoulders and looks him in the eye) Tell me that when we were together you didn’t love my company. Tell me you didn’t love making love to me. Tell me you don’t love me!

James has gradually gotten closer to Nicholas during this speech and they are about to kiss.

* Flashback Begins *

Nicholas remembers the morning after he and James first slept together. It’s late in the morning and the two of them are lying in bed together embracing.

Nicholas
It’s almost ten. Did you want to get up?
James
I’m happy just lying here with you. Did you want to get up?

Nicholas
(smiling) It is getting on a bit but I’m happy too.

James
Last night was really amazing. You were really amazing.

Nicholas
You weren’t so bad yourself.

James kisses Nicholas and smiles.

James
Do you really mean what you said to me last night? Do you love me?

*Flashback ends*

*Flashback begins*

Int. Nicholas’ Living Room

Nicholas begins to remember the time James and him first had sex. As James moves down he looks up and Nick sees Tom.

Tom
Do you love me?

Nicholas
I love you.

* Flashback Ends *

Int. Nicholas’ Bedroom

Nicholas and James are about to kiss. Their lips are mere millimetres away and Nicholas comes back to reality.

Nicholas
Tom. 

James stops in his tracks.

Nicholas
I love Tom.

James moves away slightly.

James
What about me? (visibly hurt)

Nicholas
Jay, you know that you’ll always mean more to me than a friend. You’re the one who helped me define myself and come to terms with my sexuality then, in a way, helped me come out to everyone.

James smiles

Nicholas
I do love you though Jay. But only as a friend. I don’t want to lose you Jay so please understand.

James
I’d be the stupidest man on Earth to let you slip away, so I can be the best friend you’ll ever have Nicky.

They hug and Nicholas wipes a tear from James’ eyes

James
I’ll go and let you get dressed.

Nicholas Narrates
Normally James would sit and watch me undress so I know he's respecting my wishes. One day some guy is going to be made a very happy man by him.

Act 3, Scene 2

Ext. Tom’s house

Nicholas knocks on the door to Tom’s house and Mrs Stoke answers with a fake smile at the sight of him.

Mrs Stoke
Hello Nicholas. Can I help you?

Nicholas
Tom invited me over. Is he here?

Mrs Stoke
(cutting in) Oh did he? It was very nice of him to inform me that we’d be receiving a guest whilst he’s out.

Nicholas
Oh, where is he?

Mrs Stoke
He’s at Kate’s house. Would you like to come in?

Nicholas narrates
I don’t want to face Kate but I do want to see Tom so I’ll take the lesser evil.

Nicholas
Sure, Mrs Stoke. Why not?

Mrs Stoke shows him in.

Int. Tom’s hallway

Mrs Stoke leads Nicholas through the hallway.

Mrs Stoke
I hope you don’t mind but I’m just writing out all of my Christmas cards at the moment.

Nicholas looks puzzled upon being told about this strange task.

Int. Tom’s Dining Room

Laid out on the dining room table in a neat and tidy fashion were piles of written and unwritten Christmas cards and envelopes. The care taken on each individual card makes Nicholas feel sorry for Mrs Stoke in that one single moment and his perceptions of her change.

Nicholas Narrates
This poor woman. All this time I’ve wondered why she is the way she is and now… here it is. I’ll never throw away her Christmas card again. (He looks around the room at pictures of the family. Each picture in the room has Mr Stoke in it) Tom said he barely saw his dad because of his work and now I believe him.

Nicholas
Would you like some help Mrs Stoke?

Mrs Stoke seems to realise that Nicholas is reaching out to give her his support and for the first time smiles for real and she touches his arm with her hand.

Mrs Stoke
Thank you Nicholas, but I’ll be fine. Why don’t you go up to Tom’s room and watch the television? I’ll get these finished.

Nicholas smiles and nods and walks out of the dining room leaving Mrs Stoke alone at the dining table to finish her cards.

Act 3, Scene 3

Int. Tom’s Bedroom

Nicholas Narrates
It’s been a long while since I’ve been here by myself. (Nicholas glances at the bedside table and sees the diary)

Nicholas
Oh fuck! The diary. He never leaves it.

Nicholas moves closer to the bedside table and reaches out for the diary.

Nicholas Narrates
Oh my god. Oh my god. Oh my god.

Nicholas picks up the diary and takes a moment before opening it.

Nicholas
Here we go.

Nicholas finds the section relating to the party.

Int. Kate’s Living Room

* Flashback Starts *

The section Nicholas is reading takes us back to the party at Kate’s house the night before. The scene is exactly the same but we have Tom’s narration. We see the game of truth or dare that goes wrong and we see Nicholas and Cheryl run out.

Tom Narrates
Up until Nick arrived the only thing that happened tonight was the slags putting vodka in James’ Coke. This later lead to a shocking revelation that must have totally traumatised Nicky. When he got there we started playing truth or dare then James – who’d had one to many ‘cokes’ started blurting out about sexual encounters with Nick which made Nick run out crying. I didn’t know what to do. I didn’t know where to look. Of course Terri, Hayley and Kelly just sat laughing away to themselves. Cheryl went to see how Nick was and James just sat laughing. Kate was trying to conceal a smile.

The scene is the same as it was when Nick left the party. The slags laugh amongst themselves, James chuckles to himself and Kate sits beside Tom with pursed lips.

Terri
Oh my God James did you and Nick get together?

Hayley
When did it happen? How was it? Was it good? 

Kelly
I bet it was good. He looks like he would be.

Tom
(Angry) How can you sit there and do that?! Nick is our friend.

Kate
Actually Tom Nick is your friend, NOT mine.

Tom
Was I talking to you?

Kate
No, but you are now and I’d appreciate it if you showed me a little more respect.

Tom
Whatever. (Looks at James) Do you realise what you’ve done? You’ve just outed him to everyone when he clearly wasn’t ready!

James
(Begins to come to his senses) Oh my God what have I done to him? (Runs out after Nick)

Tom’s attention turns to Terri, Hayley and Kelly. They realise and hush up.

Tom
How many Cokes has he had since he got here?

Terri
A lot. More than four?

Kelly
About five or six?

Hayley
Around seven?

Kate
Oh my God what a fucking fish!

Tom
How much alcohol did you use?

Hayley
About ¾ of a bottle

The slags chuckle

Kate
You wasted my vodka on one person! It was the good stuff too.

Tom
Shut up Kate this is serious.

Kate
If you knew about the alcohol then why didn’t you say anything?

Tom
I didn’t think that this would happen.

Kate
You still let it happen. You’ve got no right being all high and mighty with me or with anyone else for that matter.

Tom
Oh why don’t you just shut your mouth!

Kate
Excuse you?!

The slags look at each other and stand to leave.

Kate
Where the fuck are you going?

Terri
We’ve got...work in the morning.

Kate
I don’t care. Its MY birthday and MY party is NOT over so sit down.

They go to sit when Tom stands up and grabs their coats and throws them at them.

Tom
Get the hell out and go home!

Kate
I want them to stay!

Tom
(Shouts) Well I’m TELLING them to go!

The slags go to the door.

Kelly
Bye Kate

The slags leave. Kate and Tom argue.

Tom
They spiked his drink.

Kate
So what? It’s all in good fun.

Tom
He outed Nick and really upset him.

Kate
Oh big fucking deal! At least they exposed the lying bastard. You know how I feel about lies Tom.

Tom
I don’t care how you feel Kate. Not everything is about you! You’re not the centre of any universe especially not mine! You egocentric BITCH!

Kate
Get out! And don’t come back until you’re ready to apologise!

* Flashback Ends *

Nick continues to read

Tom Narrates
Then I left without saying another word. I cant believe how awful she was tonight and how little she thinks about anyone but herself. It doesn’t bother me in the slightest that Nick is gay. I don’t think he's a liar, I completely understand why he didn’t tell anyone...

Nicholas Narrates
Oh my god he does understand. He really is ok with it. Oh thank god!

Nicholas turns the page

Tom Narrates
He didn’t tell anyone for the same reason that I didn’t tell anyone.

Act 4, Scene 1

Int. Nicholas’ Living Room

Chapter Five – Moments

We flood into the flashback of Nicholas and Tom watching the movie. The scene is as it was in Act 1, Scene 1.

* Flashback Begins *

Tom
Tasty huh? (smiling)

Nicholas
Yeah.

Tom turn to the TV

Tom Narrates
These are the moments. The ones where I realise once again that he will never be mine. A smile, a flicker, a glance in any other direction than where I am and I know automatically he’s not thinking of me, and he never will. I know its silly of me to think about the notion that a guy like Nick, a straight guy like Nick would ever be with a gay guy. A guy like me. I feel awful stringing Kate along all this time but what else can I do? I need to hide it.

Scene moves on to Nicholas sucking the lollipop as in Act 1, Scene 1.

Tom Narrates
He’s doing it again! I hate it when he sucks lollipops, it always makes me get so aroused! I just wish he'd grab me and treat me like that lollipop. It always frustrates me when I see him doing things like this I just want to burst out and tell him how I really feel! I just wish I had the guts to do it! Whenever we watch movies together I always have to lie to him and it makes me feel really shitty inside that I have to do it all the time but what choice do I have? (Looks at the girl on screen) Look at this girl, I mean yeah she's pretty I can see that but she doesn't do anything for me and yet, every single week me and him watch a movie and I sit there and come out with the most outrageous lies! God knows what he must think about me! (laughs) 

Ext. Nicholas’ front door

Nicholas sees Tom out of the house and Tom leaves Nicholas' home.

Ext. A street

Tom narrates
Then as quick as it's come, it's gone again. Another evening with Nick is over. But there's worse to come. My lies and deceit don't end with Nick.

Ext. Kate’s Front Door

Tom knocks on Kate's door. She answers and smiles throwing herself at him.

Tom
Hi babe. God, I've been thinking about you all night (Kisses her). It's almost time for your birthday too I bet you're dead excited!

Kate
(Smiles) Depends on what kind of excited you're talking about. (She kisses Tom and rubs her hands on his back and down to his bum) Are you coming in?

The door shuts.

Int. Kate’s Bedroom

The scene restarts in Kate's room on her bed. Tom and Kate are embracing with Kate dominating. She has in her hand an unopened condom and she pulls of his trousers and we see her open it.

Tom narrates
Once again my vivid imagination kicks in and I can go on without displeasing Kate.

As Kate looks up from between Tom's legs and begins to open the condom she turns gradually into Nicholas. Nicholas looks up at Tom and smiles seductively. As Nicholas speaks Kate's voice gradually becomes his.

Kate and Nicholas
Are you ready?

Tom
Yes.

We see Nicholas smile and then he sits on Tom and they kiss passionately. The scene cuts away and we go to afterwards both are under the bed sheet hot and sweaty. Tom leans in close to Nicholas and kisses his neck and then lips and he comes away we see/ he sees Kate in Nicholas’ place. Over this piece we hear Tom’s thoughts.

Tom narrates
When I'm with her it's Nick I see, it's Nick I smell, it's Nick I hear and taste and touch. These are the moments when Kate disappears and Nicholas is most clear to me and in these moments, even though they're a fantasy, for a short time my soul rediscovers its mate.

*Flashback ends*

Act 4, Scene 2

Int. Tom’s Bedroom

Scene changes back to Nick in Tom's room with the diary. He sits on the bed and drops the book to his lap.

Nicholas 
Fucking hell! (He's smiling) He wants me! (Is over elated) I need to see him, I have to tell him I feel the same way. (He runs to the door and shouts down the stairs) Mrs Stoke! Mrs Stoke!

Mrs Stoke reaches the bottom of the stairs and frowns.

Mrs Stoke
Yes, what's the fuss about?

Nicholas
How long will Tom be?

Mrs Stoke
I don't know. Try his mobile why don't you?

Nicholas
Ok thanks. (Closes the door and dials Tom's number and waits for an answer. Nicholas looks at his watch and the time is twelve forty.) Come on answer! (The phone goes to Tom's voicemail) Shit, fine I'll just leave a message then. Hey Tom it's Nick. I hope you get this message soon. Please hurry back as soon as possible! I need to tell you something Tom and I can’t hold it in. I know how you feel about me, I read it in your diary and now I just want to hear your voice and here you say it to me over and over again until my ears can’t take it anymore!! (Sighs) I guess I should go and I’ll see you when you get here. Bye. (Is about to hang up and then doesn’t) Oh! And, I love you Tom. Bye.(Puts phone down and notices a voicemail is waiting) Oh god, who's this from?

Act 4, Scene 3

Int. Tom’s Bedroom

Scene switches to Tom standing just where Nicholas is. The clock says it is just after ten o' clock. Tom is on the phone to Nicholas. It’s the same conversation they had on the phone earlier on.

Tom
I just need to talk to you about a few things.

Nicholas
About last night?

Tom
Sort of yeah. You don't mind do you?

Nicholas
No, of course not it's fine. I'll see you later then.

Tom
Bye Nicky.

Nicholas
Bye Tom.

Tom hangs up and looks at his reflection in the mirror in the corner of the room. He's in his boxers as Nicholas was before. He looks at himself and appears anxious and rubs his hands through his head and makes fists.

Tom
Come on Tom be strong. You can do it. Just tell him how you feel. It'll make it easier when you see him later. It's time. You're ready. (He grabs the mobile and redials but there is no answer. He reaches the voicemail) Fuck I was hoping you'd answer...

Act 4, Scene 4

Int. Kate’s Living Room 

Scene now cuts away to Tom at Kate's. He is sitting with her. She is visibly angry and upset. The time is approaching twelve forty.

Kate
How could you lie to me all this time?! 

Tom
I'm sorry Kate it's just something I've found really difficult to come to terms with. I still adore you though Kate, you know that. You mean so much to me.

Kate 
Great so I turned you gay?!

Tom
No, I guess I've been like it all my life. It's nothing you've done. You've been wonderful, I love you.

Kate 
If you loved me then you'd never have started this relationship.

Tom
Our relationship started out as a friendship. You were the one who wanted more and I just gave you what I thought you wanted.

Kate
I never said I wanted a gay boyfriend. I’d prefer it if you were leaving me for another woman! (Stands up and throws a tissue at him that she had in her hand) It's him isn't it?

Tom
Who?

Kate
Don't give me that bullshit Tom, you know who I mean. Your fucking shadow, that's who.

Tom
What do you mean? Look I know you're upset right now but...

Kate
(Shouts across the room) but nothing Tom! No more lies. If you love me like you say then you'll tell me the fucking truth! Are you screwing Nick?

Tom
No, how could you say that?

Kate
So he comes out one day and then all of a sudden you do it the day after?! Quite a god damn coincidence don't you think?

Tom
I'm not having sex with Nick!

Kate
But you want to don't you?! (There's a pause and she raises her voice) Don't you?!!

Tom says nothing and avoids eye contact. This confirms it for her.

Kate
Eugh! You make me sick! All this time you’ve been with me, holding me, kissing me, making love to me and you were thinking of him weren’t you!?

Tom
No I wasn’t.

Kate
(screaming) Don’t you dare keep lying to me!

Tom
(comes over to Kate and reaches for her shoulder) 

Kate
(slapping him away) Don’t fucking touch me! Don’t come near me!

Tom
Kate, please, we can still be friends?

Kate
Not after this we can’t! Do you think I want to be in the same room as a lying and deceitful bastard?!

Tom
I didn’t mean to lie to you but I had no choice.

Kate
You could have told me sooner! You could have said you didn’t want a relationship! You could have not been gay!

Tom
How could I not be gay? I just am! That’s not my choice. The same as you don’t choose to be straight you just are!

Kate
Well lets say you could choose. Would you be straight?

Tom
No, because that’s not me. Today, I’ll start being me.

Kate
Well if this is you then I don’t like you. You lied to me all this time and that is unforgivable. I don’t care if you’re gay, straight or whatever but you lied about it to me: The person you said you loved, supposedly, and then shared a bed with! I don’t ever want to see you again.

Tom
Kate please…

Kate
Get the hell away from me!

Tom
Please just listen.

Kate
I’m done listening to your lies Tom. Get out!

Tom
No Kate please!

Kate
(throws the nearest object) I said, get out! (Screaming) 

He leaves and goes by the clock which says twelve forty. 

Ext. Kate’s Front Door

As he leaves the house his phone rings and just as he reaches it the phone stops ringing. 

Ext. Another Street

He has tears streaming down his face and just walks down the street. His phone soon rings again with a voicemail. And he listens to it. It's Nicholas' message.

Nicholas' voice
Shit, fine I'll just leave a message then. Hey Tom it's Nick...

Act 4, Scene 5

Scene cuts and shifts through the three scenes below whilst Tom’s voicemail is played over the top.

Int. Tom’s Bedroom

Nicholas
(Dials voicemail and listens)

Tom's voice
Fuck, I was hoping you'd answer. I think I was anyway...

Nicholas listens to Tom’s message and grows ever more happy and tearful as the message goes on. When Tom hangs up Nicholas is practically collapsing in tears of joy on the floor.

Ext. Another Street

Tom walks down the street away from Kate’s house. He listens to Nicholas’ voicemail which we cannot hear. He is obviously distracted but happy to hear it and when wandering across the street is run down by a car which Kate is driving. He is knocked down and the phone lies inches from his hand and Nicholas’ final words come out.

Int. Kate’s Car

Kate races down the street in her car in a blind rage! She sees Tom crossing the road and aims for him and speeds up then knocks him down. She speeds away leaving Tom in the road.

Voicemail of Tom's voice to be played over clips
Well I just wanted to tell you why I was asking you over. God, I'm really shitting myself here Nicky. You see after last night I got to thinking about how awful it must have been for you to be outed like you were and I thought that should never happen to anyone especially someone as amazing as you are. Anyway, the first thing I wanted to say to you is that (takes a moment) I'm gay. There I said it, I'm gay. I've known it for so long but was afraid you'd hate me for it but now I know about you I just had to tell you! The other reason I wanted to ask you over here is because ever since I met you I knew that you were the one person in the whole world that I wanted more than anything else. I've been too afraid to say - god to even think it when I'm with you. Every moment we spend together is like torture because I can't say all that I want to say to you. I can't even write most of it in my diary because I fear the words will hold less value when I whisper them in your ear. I love you Nicholas and that's all there is to it. I guess I'll go now and if you don't get this message then I can tell you it again later in person. Bye Nicky.

END