TRIANGLE

                             by

                         Ash Quadir

                                         27 Valley Forge Drive
                                         Woolwich Twp., NJ  08085
                                         856-467-2809
                                         ashquadir@yahoo.com

FADE IN:

EXT. SOUTH PHILADELPHIA  - DAY

Veterans Stadium, home of the Phillys and Eagles.  A big,
bulky monster in South Philly.  The Philadelphia skyline
shimmers in the background like a mirage  The twin spires of
the Liberty Place Towers and City Hall stand tall and proud.
The Delaware River glistens beneath the Walt Whitman and Ben
Franklin Bridges.

EXT. SOUTH PHILLY STREET - DAY

A working-class Italian neighborhood within the shadows of
Veterans Stadium.  A U-Haul truck is coming down a street
flanked by brownstones.  Italian and American flags are
snapping in the breeze.

EXT. MORELLI BROWNSTONE - DAY

STEVIE, 15, spots the truck and starts to wave.  MRS. MARY
MORELLI, 50, comes out onto the stoop.  DANA DeSTEFANO, 25,
follows her outside.  She's a knockout.

The U-Haul parks in front of the brownstone.  BOBBY MORELLI,
27, steps out with enthusiasm.  He's handsome and wearing a
Phillys cap.

                         STEVIE
                   (shouting)
            Bobby!

Bobby picks up Stevie and whirls him around.

                         BOBBY
            Hey, little brother, how you doin'?

                         STEVIE
            You're late!

                         BOBBY
            Tie-up on the turnpike, buddy.
                   (to his mother)
            How you doing, ma?

Bobby embraces his mom.  She's plump with streaks of gray in
her hair.

                         MRS. MORELLI
                   (wiping tears)
            Back for good, son?

                                                            2.

                         BOBBY
            Hey, I just got here.  Let me get
            settled in first.
                   (turns to Dana)
            Hey, Danny.

Bobby and Dana embrace.

                         DANA
                   (into Bobby's ear)
            I got you back.

                         BOBBY
            In the flesh.

They separate.  Dana regards Bobby, seriously.

                         DANA
            For good?

                         BOBBY
            Give me a break.  You sound like ma.
                   (to Mikey)
            Mikey!

                         MIKEY
            Yo, Bobbeee baby!

Bobby embraces, Mikey, 27.  Mikey's carrying a beer gut and
is a head shorter than Bobby.  They're childhood friends.

                         MIKEY
            So, the chicken's come home to
            roost.
                   (nudges Dana)
            Or did he come back to the hen?

                         BOBBY
            I came back for a real Italian
            dinner and Philly cheesteaks.
                   (to his mother)
            Ma, where's the food?

INT. MORELLI BROWNSTONE - NIGHT

Everybody is sitting around the table for a big Italian
dinner.  Bobby is stuffing himself with manicotti.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Take it easy, son.

                                                            3.

                         BOBBY
            This is real good, ma.
                   (blows his mother a kiss)
            Bellisimo!

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Grazie.  Eat slowly, before you
            choke.

                         MIKEY
            Let the boy pig out, Mrs. Morelli.
            You know he came back from
            California for your cooking.

                         DANA
            Is that right, Bobby?  Just the
            cooking?

                         STEVIE
            What about us?

                         BOBBY
            Guys, would you let me eat?
                   (to Dana)
            A little help with the manicotti.

Dana passes it to him.  Bobby takes a liberal portion and
starts digging in.

                         BOBBY
            Man, this is good.  I mean it.

                         DANA
            Bobby.

                         BOBBY
            Yeah, Danny?

                         DANA
            How about an answer.

                         BOBBY
            About what?

                         DANA
            What did you come back for?

                         BOBBY
            You want the truth?

Stevie slams his fist on the table, rattling China.

                         STEVIE
            We want the truth!

                                                            4.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Stevie, behave yourself!

                         BOBBY
            You couldn't handle the truth!

                         MIKEY
            Try us.

                         BOBBY
            Like I said, ma's cooking - and
            cheesteaks.  Can you believe they
            put Cheese Whiz on their cheesteaks
            out West?

                         MIKEY
                   (disgusted)
            Animals!

                         BOBBY
            Bread, please.

Mrs. Morelli passes Bobby the bread and gives him a no-
nonsense look.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            You're laying it on thick, honey.
            If  I know my son, he came back for
            a woman.

INT. BOBBY'S BEDROOM - LATER

Bobby is unpacking his suitcase with Dana's help.  He stops
and looks all the OLD MOVIE POSTERS on his wall

                         BOBBY
            I can't believe that all my old
            posters are still up.  Ma kept this
            place like a shrine to me.  God,
            she could have rented the room out
            and made a few bucks.

                         DANA
            She was always hoping you would
            come back for good someday.
                   (softly)
            I was hoping the same myself.

                         BOBBY
            Well, I can't just stay with my
            mother permanently.  Pete's sake,
            I'm a grown man.

                                                            5.

Bobby starts to hand over clothes to Dana which she is puts
into dresser drawers.

                         DANA
            You're going to look for your own
            place soon?

                         BOBBY
            That's something I have to
            definitely think about it.

                         DANA
            There's always my place.

                         BOBBY
            I know, I know.  Thanks for the
            offer.  I'll keep it in mind.

Dana looks at Bobby directly.

                         DANA
            You're here to stay, aren't you?  I
            want to believe that I'm one of the
            main reasons you're back.  That you
            didn't just come back for your
            mom's cooking - or Philly cheesteaks.

                         BOBBY
            Danny, you had a hand in it, of
            course you did.  But give a chance,
            all right?  I just got here.

                         DANA
            I'm sorry.

                         BOBBY
            Hey, I thought Beth would show up
            tonight?

                         DANA
            She was excited when she heard you
            were coming.  I'm sure she wanted
            to come.  Something must have kept
            her.

                         BOBBY
            Maybe she couldn't get a baby
            sitter for Rachel?

                         DANA
            No, mom would have taken care of
            her.  It was probably Rico.  He
            likes to keep her on a short leash.

                                                            6.

                         BOBBY
            There's trouble between Beth and
            Rico?

                         DANA
            That's nothing new.  He's such a
            fucking neanderthal.
                   (in a deep voice)
            He big man.  He like to control his
            woman.

                         BOBBY
            Carries around a club, does he?

                         DANA
            Gods knows he probably would if he
            could.
                   (points to the bookshelf)
            Hey, do you have a high school
            yearbook?  Let's look at some
            pictures.

                         BOBBY
            I must have one here somewhere.

Bobby searches the bookshelf and finds it.

                         BOBBY
            Here it is.

As Bobby a yearbook, a BOX OF CONDOMS falls onto the floor.
He picks it up and grins.

                         BOBBY
            I totally forgot about these.

                         DANA
            Those yours?

Bobby nods "yes".

                         BOBBY
            I can't believe ma didn't find them
            after all these years.  She was
            always cleaning my room.
                   (beat)
            You know something?  They haven't
            expired yet.
                   (looks lasciviously
                   at Dana)
            Wanna test them out?

                         DANA
            Your mom's downstairs!

                                                            7.

                         BOBBY
            Come on, the walls are thick.
                   (beat)
            It's been a long time, Danny.  I
            missed you.

                         DANA
            I missed you more.

They embrace and kiss.  Bobby pushes Dana back onto his bed.

EXT. NICK'S ALE HOUSE - NIGHT

People are hanging around outside.  Others are walking
inside.  Traffic is brisk.  Bobby and Mikey walk in.

INT. NICK'S ALE HOUSE - NIGHT

The place is packed.  When Bobby walks in, people shout his
name.  Word has already spread that he's back.  He and Mikey
take seats up at the bar.

                         MIKEY
            Nick, two cold ones!

NICK, 50, the owner and bartender turns and sees Bobby.  His
claps his hands, excited.

                         NICK
            Hey, Bobby Morelli, how you doin'?

                         BOBBY
            Good, Nick, real good.  Missed this
            place.

                         NICK
            This place missed you too.  First
            round's on the house!

                         MIKEY
            Just the first?  For crying out
            loud, Nick, stop being such a
            godamned cheapskate.  The boys been
            away for years.

                         NICK
                   (to Mikey)
            Who you callin' a cheapskate,
            Lazzaro?  Your tabs running a mile
            long,.  You're not getting outta
            here tonight without laying some
            cash down, you hear me?
                         (MORE)

                                                            8.

                         NICK (CONT'D)
                   (to Bobby)
            Everything's on the house for you
            tonight.  You got brains, Bobby.
            Why hanging around with this loser?

Bobby shrugs, smiling.

INT. NICK'S ALE HOUSE - LATER

Many people come up and say hello to Bobby, shake hands,
give him hugs.  He appears very popular.  Nick comes back
with two beers.  Mikey smiles and toasts Bobby.

                         MIKEY
            Man, it's good to have you back.

                         BOBBY
            Glad to be back.

                         MIKEY
            Thought we'd lost you to the sun
            and naked babes.

                         BOBBY
            There's naked babes here too.

                         MIKEY
            Not like fucking California!

                         BOBBY
            You been watching way too much
            Baywatch.

                         MIKEY
            Every chance I get.
                   (beat)
            So why did you really come back?

                         BOBBY
            Man, everybody's interrogating me!
            Mom's cooking, all right?

                         MIKEY
            Look, pal, we've known each other
            since fuckin' first grade. I didn't
            fuckin' leave, you fuckin' left.
            Now, you're mom's a mighty fine
            cook, but don't blow smoke up my
            ass.  It's gotta be Dana.

Beat.

                                                            9.

                         BOBBY
            She had something to do with it.

                         MIKEY
            She convince you when she went out
            to visit -

                         BOBBY
            Who told you?

                         MIKEY
            Look, this is a small town.  Jeannie
            does her hair.  My wife knows every
            fuckin' piece of gossip in this
            neighborhood, so cut to the chase,
            will you?

Bobby sighs.

                         BOBBY
            Yeah, she went out there.  We
            talked, had a great time.  I like
            spending time with Danny.  She's
            fun.  Yeah, she had something to
            with me coming back.

                         MIKEY
            You love her?

Beat.

                         BOBBY
            I've always loved her.  I dated her
            for a couple years, remember?

                         MIKEY
            You gonna marry her?

                         BOBBY
            Mikey, give me a chance.  I just
            got back.  When I do the deed,
            you're going to be my best man, all
            right?

INT.  NICK'S ALE HOUSE - LATER

Bobby and Mikey are still drinking at the bar.  There is a
commotion at the door.  They turn around.

TWO BEEFY GUYS have walked in with a woman who is wearing a
leather skirt and jacket.  Her makeup is on a little thick,
but she is still very pretty.  The beefy guys have a few
words with a guy.  SANTO, 33, grabs the guy's collar and
shoves him against a wall.

                                                           10.

The guy begs for mercy and quickly scrambles out of the joint.

                         MIKEY
            What do you know, Philly's biggest
            assholes have dropped by for a visit.

                         BOBBY
            That's Rico and Santo, isn't it?

                         MIKEY
            And Beth too.

                         BOBBY
            She looks different in all that
            leather.

                         MIKEY
            Rico dresses her.  He's into leather.

RICO, 33, BETH. 32, and Santo have spotted Bobby and approach
the bar.  Rico's a big, beefy Italian guy.  Beth's got dark
hair and a full figure.  She's pretty, but the leather
outfit doesn't suit her.

                         SANTO
            Hey, Bobbyo, where's your Hollywood
            tan, man?

Santo SLAPS Bobby on the back.  Bobby is not too happy about
that, but he doesn't do anything.

                         BOBBY
            What's going on?

                         SANTO
            You're going on, man.  What brings
            you back?

Bobby ignores his question.

                         RICO
            Hey, Bobby, didn't expect to see
            you back.  Couldn't cut it in
            California, huh?

Bobby ignores Rico.  Turns to Beth.

                         BOBBY
            Hey, Beth, how you doing?

                         BETH
            Bobby, how are you?  Good to see you.

                                                           11.

                         BOBBY
            We missed you at dinner last night.
            Dana said -

                         RICO
            She couldn't make it.  Bowling night.

                         BOBBY
                   (to Beth)
            You want to join us for a drink?

                         RICO
            She's busy.  Santo and I are
            playing nine-ball.  Beth's got to
            see my moves.  Ain't that right,
            honey?

Rico pulls Beth close to him and kisses her hard.  She
cringes and does not seem happy at all.

                         BETH
            Rico, why don't you start.  I'll be
            right there.  It's been a while
            since I saw Bobby -

                         RICO
            Come on.  You said hello.  Some
            other time, babe.

Rico pulls Beth towards the pool room.  Santo follows like a
puppy.  Beth glances back at Bobby with a helpless expression
on her face.

                         MIKEY
            Fucking dicks.  I'd love to shove
            my foot up their assholes.

                         BOBBY
            Rico hasn't changed much. He's
            still a jerk.  It's a shame Beth
            ended up with him.

                         MIKEY
            Well, you fuckin' left and I was
            already taken.  She didn't have
            much to choose from.

Mike laughs but Bobby says nothing.

INT. NICK'S ALE HOUSE - LATER

Mike and Bobby are still sipping beers at the bar.  Mikey
notices Bobby watching Beth with a wistful look on his face.

                                                           12.

                         MIKEY
            Who are you looking at?

                         BOBBY
            Nobody.
                   (polishes his beer off)
            Let's go home.

                         MIKEY
            Already?

                         BOBBY
            I'm beat.  You can stay if you want
            to.

                         MIKEY
            Aw, it's not even fuckin' midnight!
            California made you soft.

Mikey peels a few bills from his money clip and slaps it on
the bar.  He follows Bobby out.

From the pool room, Beth watches Bobby leave with a forlorn
expression on her face.

EXT. DANA'S FLOWER SHOP - DAY

The shop is called HEAVEN'S SCENTS.  Bobby walks in carrying
a brown paper bag.

INT. DANA'S FLOWER SHOP - DAY

The door bell RINGS.

                         DANA (O.S.)
            I'll be right there.

Bobby walks around the shop smelling flowers, until Dana
comes out from the back.  Her face lights up when she sees
him.

                         DANA
            Bobby.

                         BOBBY
            Hey, flower girl.

Dana puts her clippers down and embraces him.  She notices
the brown bag Bobby's carrying.

                         DANA
            Is that lunch?

                                                           13.

                         BOBBY
            Strombolli.  Picked it up at Gino's.
            Made 'specially for you.

                         DANA
            You're too good to me.  Thanks.

                         BOBBY
            Anytime.

                         DANA
            Speaking of food.  You can show up
            for dinner Monday night.  Mom's
            invited us to dinner at her place.
            You're guest of honor.

                         BOBBY
            She gonna satisfy me - I mean
            foodwise?

                         DANA
                   (smiling)
            Both of us will.

                         BOBBY
            I accept.

The phone RINGS.  Dana answers it.  She talks and nods.
Hangs up, looking frustrated.

                         DANA
            Now she wants white orchids too.
            That's a special order.  I don't
            know if I can even have them
            delivered on time.

                         BOBBY
            Business is good?

                         DANA
            I can't keep up.  I've been putting
            together these huge arrangements
            for a  big wedding this weekend.
                   (beat)
            It's so depressing.

                         BOBBY
            Why?

Dana sighs.

                         DANA
            Oh, nothing.

                                                           14.

                         BOBBY
            It's got to be something.

                         DANA
            Bobby, you can't be that thick.
                   (beat)
            I want us to be together.

                         BOBBY
            We are.

                         DANA
            Legally.  Permanently.  I want to
            be able to arrange the flowers for
            our wedding some day.  Don't you
            want that too?

                         BOBBY
            Danny, just give me a little time.
            Why do you think I came back from
            San Francisco?  When I saw you
            again out there, it was terrific.
            And then you left, I felt empty
            inside.  I knew that I wanted to be
            near you again.  I hitched my tent
            and came back so I could be near
            you.  That must mean something.

Dana puts her arms around Bobby's neck.

                         DANA
            I love you so much, you know that?

Bobby pulls her close and kisses her forehead.

                         BOBBY
            Same here.

INT. MORELLI BROWNSTONE - HALLWAY - DAY

Stevie is knocking on the bathroom door.  We can hear the
sound of the shower running.

                         STEVIE
            Bobby, phone call!

                         BOBBY (O.S.)
            What?

                         STEVIE
            You have a phone call!

                         BOBBY (O.S.)
            Who is it?

                                                           15.

                         STEVIE
            Some girl.

                         BOBBY (O.S.)
            Just a minute.

Beat.

The door opens.  Bobby steps out wet, wearing a towel around
his waist.  His muscles ripple.  He takes the phone from
Stevie.  Shakes his head to indicate that he should get lost.

                         BOBBY
            Hello?  Danny?

                         BETH (V.O.)
            No, it's me, Beth

Bobby starts walking and enters...

HIS BEDROOM

INTERCUT TELEPHONE CONVERSATION - BOBBY AND BETH

                         BOBBY
            Hey, how are you doing?

Beth is sitting on her bed, phone to her ear.

                         BETH
            Hanging in there.  How about you?

                         BOBBY
            Um, give me a second, will you?

Bobby adjusts his towel before it falls of and lays back on
his bed.

                         BOBBY (CONT.)
            So, what's up?

                         BETH
            Did I catch you at a bad time?

                         BOBBY
            I just stepped out of the shower.

                         BETH
            Oh, I'm sorry.  I'll -

                         BOBBY
            It's all right.  What's up?

                                                           16.

                         BETH
            I never really got a chance to talk
            to you last night.  I'm - I'm
            really glad you're back.

                         BOBBY
            Thanks.  Glad to be back.

                         BETH
            Rico and Santo were real jerks.
            I'm sorry about that.

                         BOBBY
            Hey, fuhgeddaboutit.

Beth laughs.

                         BOBBY (CONT.)
            What's so funny?

                         BETH
            Fuhgeddaboutit.  Going out West
            hasn't changed you much.  You still
            speak Italian.

                         BOBBY
            Yeah, a little.  Yo, Adrian.

Beth laughs again.  Beat.

                         BETH
            Bobby, uh... do you want to...

                         BOBBY
            Yeah?

                         BETH
            You're probably too busy...

                         BOBBY
            Hey, I have no job.  Try me.

Beat.

                         BETH
            Do you want to maybe meet me in the
            park today?  I was going to take
            Rachel there anyway.  You know,
            maybe we catch up on old times?

Bobby looks pleased.

                         BOBBY
            Name the time.

                                                           17.

EXT. PARK - DAY

Bobby is already waiting for Beth when she arrives with
RACHEL, 5.  They hug each other warmly

                         BETH
            Good to see you.

                         BOBBY
            You too.  It's been a while.

Beth regards Bobby with a wistful expression on her face.

                         BETH
            You've been away six years -

                         RACHEL
            Mommy, can I go play?

                         BETH
            Just a second, honey.
                   (to Bobby)
            You've never met her before, have
            you?

                         BOBBY
            No.  She's beautiful.  She looks
            like you.

                         BETH
            Rachel, honey, this is Bobby.
            He's - he's an old friend.  Why
            don't you say hello to him?

                         RACHEL
                   (shyly)
            Hi.

Bobby extends his hand to Rachel.

                         BOBBY
            Hey, Rachel, how are you?

Rachel shakes his hand slowly.

                         RACHEL
            I'm okay.

                         BOBBY
            How old are you?

Rachel spreads the five fingers of her right hand.

                                                           18.

                         RACHEL
            Five.

                         BOBBY
            Wow, that's five birthdays I've
            missed.

                         RACHEL
            You didn't send me any presents.

                         BETH
            Rachel!

Bobby laughs.

                         BOBBY
            Will this make up for it?

Bobby takes out a packet of expensive hair clips from his
pocket and gives them to Rachel.  She looks pleased.

                         BETH
            Bobby, you didn't have to do that.

                         BOBBY
            But I wanted to.

                         BETH
                   (to Rachel)
            You didn't thank Uncle Bobby, honey.

                         RACHEL
            Thank you, Uncle Bobby.

                         BOBBY
            You're very, very welcome.

Beth takes the clips and puts them in Rachel's hair.

                         BETH
            Go play now.
                   (points to a nearby bench)
            We'll be right over there.  Don't
            leave my sight, got that?

Rachel nods "yes" and dashes away to the swings.

EXT. PARK - LATER

Bobby and Beth are sitting a park bench.  Behind them Rachel
is playing with other kids.  Bobby and Beth are just looking
at each other not saying a word.  Beth breaks the silence.

                                                           19.

                         BETH
            Look at you.

                         BOBBY
            Look at you.

                         BETH
            You look good.

                         BOBBY
            You look good.

                         BETH
            It's good to see you.

                         BOBBY
            It's good to see you.

                         BETH
            You're mocking me!

                         BOBBY
            I'm not mocking you.  I meant
            everything I said.

                         BETH
            You better have.
                   (punches Bobby
                   affectionately on the arm)
            So, why did you come back?

                         BOBBY
            I wish everybody would stop asking
            me that question!

Beat.

                         BETH
            I'm sorry.  I heard you were doing
            real good out in California.
            Didn't expect you back.
                   (beat)
            Dana must have had something to do
            with it.

                         BOBBY
            That's one reason.
                   (beat)
            I got your letters, you know?

                         BETH
            I never got any replies.

                                                           20.

                         BOBBY
            I'm sorry.  They were, um ... a big
            surprise.  I just didn't know how
            to respond.

                         BETH
            Just forget about them.  I shouldn't
            have written them.  I'm sorry, Bobby.

                         BOBBY
            There's nothing to be sorry about.
            You asked me if I remembered.
            Yeah, I do.
                   (looks directly into
                   Beth's eyes)
            I remember everything.

Beth looks down at her lap, looking uncomfortable.

                         BETH
            Dana's so excited you're back.  I
            guess you guys are an item again?

                         DANA
            We're seeing each other.

                         BETH
            She's lucky to have you.

Beth looks up again.  Their eyes lock for an instant.  Beth
looks away again.  There is silence between them again.

                         BETH (CONT.)
            Aren't you into computers?

                         BOBBY
            Was.

                         BETH
            You don't have a job lined up here?

                         BOBBY
            No.  There no rush.  At my last
            job, I cashed in my options before
            the big internet bust.

                         BETH
            Look at you, Mr. Moneybags.

                         BOBBY
            I was busting my but for a couple
            of years, so I'm gonna take some
            time off and just enjoy life for a
            while.

                                                           21.

                         BETH
            I always knew you were going to be
            a big success.  You've always been
            so smart.  At least you got out of
            this neighborhood and did something
            with your life.

                         BOBBY
            Stop buttering me up.

                         BETH
            I really mean it, Bobby.  You
            always had so much potential.

                         BOBBY
            What about you?  Do you work?

Beth looks dejected.

                         BETH
            I used to help Dana out at the
            flower shop and waited tables at
            Nick's.  I also did some singing
            gigs on South Street.  Now, I'm
            nothing but a full time housewife.
            Rico thought I should stay at home
            after Rachel was born.

                         BOBBY
                   (surprised)
            You haven't been working for five
            years?

                         BETH
            It seems like ten.  I wanted to -

                         BOBBY
            But Rico won't let you.

Beth nods glumly.

                         BOBBY
            It's not going well between you
            two, is it?

                         BETH
            We have our differences.

                         BOBBY
            You're not happy with him.

                         BETH
                   (sighing)
            I exist.

                                                           22.

Bobby picks up a rock and holds it up.

                         BOBBY
            This rock exists, but it doesn't
            have feelings. You're not a rock,
            Beth.

                         BETH
            A rock has more freedom than I have.

Bobby throws the rock away.

                         BOBBY
            Look, I could tell from the letters
            that something's wrong.  It upsets
            me that you're not happy.  God
            knows somebody like you deserves to
            be.

                         BETH
            It's nice to know that somebody
            cares.  Thanks.

                         BOBBY
            Listen, any time you need to talk
            or you need anything at all, I'm
            there for you.  I really mean it.

Beth takes Bobby's hand and clasps it.

                         BETH
            I know, Bobby.  I know you mean it.
            You don't know how much that means
            to me coming from you.

Beth rises abruptly.

                         BETH (CONT.)
            Hey, listen.  It was great seeing
            you.  I gotta run now.  I have to
            get dinner ready before Rico's back
            home.  We'll talk later, all right?

Bobby rises as well.

                         BOBBY
            I'd like that.

They embrace.

                         BETH
            Bye, Bobby.

Beth goes to fetch Rachel.  Bobby watches her go.

                                                           23.

EXT. MRS. DESTAFANO'S HOUSE - NIGHT

It's a brownstone similar to the Morelli's.

INT. MRS. DESTAFANO'S HOUSE - DINING ROOM - NIGHT

Bobby, Dana and her mom are sitting around the dinner table.
MRS. DeSTAFANO, 60, is a plump widow with gray hair.

                         BOBBY
            This is excellent, Mrs. DeStafano.
            God, your cooking gives my mom's a
            run for its money.

                         MRS. DESTAFANO
            You hear that, honey?  Your cooking
            is as good as his mom's.  That's a
            good omen.

Bobby turns to Dana in surprise.

                         BOBBY
            You made dinner?

                         DANA
            Mom cooked the ziti, but I made
            everything else.  You really like it?

                         BOBBY
            No. I love it.

Bobby starts digging into his food with gusto.

INT. MRS. DESTAFANO'S HOUSE - DINING ROOM - LATER

Bobby's already into his second helping.  Dana eats sparingly.

                         BOBBY
            I thought Beth was stopping by?

                         DANA
            She was supposed to.

                         BOBBY
            Maybe she forgot.

                         DANA
            It's gotta be Rico.

                         MRS. DESTAFANO
            She hasn't made it to dinner in
            months.  He locks my baby up.
            She's not even to taste my ziti!
            It's her favorite.

                                                           24.

                         BOBBY
            Mrs. DeStafano, I'll drop the
            manicotti by for her if you want.

                         MRS. DESTAFANO
            Oh, no.  I don't want to trouble -

                         BOBBY
            Her house is on the way.  Really,
            it's really no trouble at all.

                         MRS. DESTAFANO
            Ok, honey.  Thank you.

                         BOBBY
            No problem.

Dana glances at Bobby but doesn't say anything.

INT. MRS. DESTAFANO'S HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - LATER

They are all seated in the living room sharing desert.

                         MRS. DESTAFANO
            I remember you children growing up
            together.  Beth used to babysit
            both of you.  And you, Bobby, you
            doted on her like anything.
                   (laughs)
            If my oldest wasn't a half dozen
            years older than you, I wouldn't
            have been surprised if you had
            ended up with her instead of Dana.

                         DANA
            Ma, what are you talking about?

Bobby laughs nervously.

                         BOBBY
            You have wild ideas, Mrs. DeStafano.

                         MRS. DESTAFANO
            I still have one daughter left -
                   (winks at Bobby)
            and boy can she cook.

                         DANA
            Ma, would you give it a break!

                                                           25.

                         MRS. DESTAFANO
            Really, Bobby, you better not let
            this one get away.  You've got
            competition.  Her third cousin
            Tony, on her father's side, well,
            he's sweet on her.

                         DANA
            I think I'm going to die.

Bobby laughs.

EXT. MRS. DESTAFANO'S HOUSE - STOOP - LATER

Bobby and Danny are finally alone.

                         BOBBY
            So, third cousin Tony's sweet on
            you?  I'm jealous.

                         DANA
            He's an ogre.  Don't worry, the
            DeStafano's stopped marrying within
            the family four generations ago in
            Sicily.

                         BOBBY
            That's a relief.  I still have
            chance then?

                         DANA
            You always did.

                         BOBBY
            Are you going to stay and help your
            mom clean up?

                         DANA
            Uh-huh.  I'm spending the night.

                         BOBBY
            Thanks again for dinner.  It was
            really great.  I'm surrounded by
            great cooks.

                         DANA
            I'm glad you liked it.

Bobby pulls Dana close and kisses her.

                         BOBBY
            See you tomorrow.

                                                           26.

                         DANA
            Goodnight, Bobby.

Bobby turns to leave.

                         DANA
            Hey, you forgot Beth's ziti.

Dana hands Bobby a container.  He takes it and starts to
walk away.  Dana watches him go.

EXT. ACROSS THE STREET FROM BETH'S HOUSE - NIGHT

Bobby is about the cross the street when he spots Rico
storming out of the house, SLAMMING the door behind him.

                         RICO
                   (shouting)
            Fuck you, bitch!

Rico jumps into his Trans Am and peels away without seeing
Bobby.  Bobby rushes across the street and knocks on the
door.  There is no answer.  He tries the door.  It's open.
He goes in.

INT. BETH'S HOUSE - KITCHEN - LATER

Bobby rushes into the kitchen and finds Beth sobbing at the
breakfast table.  He sets the ziti down and steps around the
BROKEN PLATES on the floor and rushes to her.

                         BOBBY
            Oh my god, Beth, are you okay?

Beth's got a BUSTED LIP and a NASTY BRUISE on her right cheek.

                         BETH
                   (surprised)
            Bobby?  What are you -

                         BOBBY
            Don't try to talk. I'm gonna get
            you some ice.

Bobby gets some ice from the refrigerator.  He puts it in a
cloth and gives it to Beth to apply to her swollen lip.

                         BOBBY
            What happened?

                         BETH
            I need to check on Rachel.  She's
            upstairs.

                                                           27.

                         BOBBY
            Can you stand up?

                         BETH
            I think so.

Bobby helps her to rise anyway.  Beth looks at the mess on
the floor.

                         BETH (CONT.)
            This place is a mess.

                         BOBBY
            Go.  I'll take care of everything.

                         BETH
            You don't have to do that.

                         BOBBY
            It's okay.  Go see how Rachel's
            doing.

Beth leaves the kitchen.  Bobby grabs a broom and starts to
clear away the broken dishes.

INT. BETH'S HOUSE - KITCHEN - LATER

Beth comes back to the kitchen.  It's in a lot better shape.
All the broken dishes are gone and things are tidy.

                         BETH
            Thanks.

Beth has cleaned herself up, but the bruise has darkened.

                         BOBBY
            How's Rachel?

                         BETH
            She's okay.  I put her back to
            sleep.  Let's get out of the kitchen.

INT. BETH'S HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - LATER

Bobby and Beth are sitting on the couch.

                         BOBBY
            I saw Rico storm out of here.  He
            hit you, didn't he?

Beth doesn't say anything.  She's on the verge of tears.
Bobby reaches out to brush a strand of hair away from her
cheek and curses under his breath.

                                                           28.

                         BOBBY
            That asshole.  What happened?

Beat.

                         BETH
            We were arguing about me going back
            to work.  Rachel's old enough now.
            She's in school all day.  But Rico
            wouldn't have it.  He's got this
            cro magnum view of women working.

                         BOBBY
            He hit you just because you wanted
            to work?

                         BETH
            He smashed up the plates first.
            He hit me when I threatened to do
            it anyway.  It's nothing new.

                         BOBBY
            How long has this shit been going?

                         BETH
            Seems like forever... It started
            not long after we got married.

                         BOBBY
            Maybe you guys should see a
            counselor.

                         BETH
            That's a lost cause.  Believe me,
            I've tried.

                         BOBBY
            You can't stay with this guy if
            he's abusive.  He had no right to
            lay a hand on you.  He's a fucking
            coward.  You have to do something,
            Beth.

                         BETH
            You can't solve all my problems in
            one night.  My life went down hill
            after I got married to Rico.  It's
            not going snap back so easily.
                   (beat)
            What happened to the white picket
            fences we all dream about?

Beth wipes her tears with a tissue and tries to compose
herself.

                                                           29.

                         BETH (CONT.)
            What are you doing here?

                         BOBBY
            I had dinner with Dana and your mom.
            When you didn't show up, I
            volunteered to drop by the ziti
            your mom made for you on my way home.

Beth reaches out and places her hand over Bobby's.

                         BETH
            I'm glad you're here.

                         BOBBY
            Anytime.

They look at each other almost longingly.  Bobby clears his
throat.

                         BOBBY
            Maybe you and Rachel shouldn't stay
            here tonight.  What if Rico comes
            back angry?

                         BETH
            We'll be all right.  He'll just get
            drunk and spend the night at Santo's.

                         BOBBY
            Are you sure?

Beth nods "yes".  Beat.

                         BETH
            Bobby, can you do me a favor?

                         BOBBY
            Anything.

                         BETH
            Can you just hold me?

They embrace and hold onto each other like lovers.  They
don't notice Rachel watching from the of top of the stairs.

INT. DANA'S KITCHEN - DAY

Dana's stirring some soup in a pot, cordless nursed on her
shoulder.

INTERCUT TELEPHONE CONVERSATION - BOBBY AND BETH

                                                           30.

                         BETH
            I'm glad you called.

Bobby is lying back on his bed talking on the phone.

                         BOBBY
            I was worried about you.  How are
            you holding up?

                         BETH
            I'm managing.

                         BOBBY
            Did Rico hit on you again?

                         BETH
            He's cooled down.  We're not
            talking much right now.  That suits
            me just fine.

                         BOBBY
            You don't deserve this.

                         BETH
            You know what?  I don't think I do
            either.
                   (beat)
            Bobby?

                         BOBBY
            Yeah?

                         BETH
            I'd like to see you again.

                         BOBBY
            I'd like that too.

EXT. FAIRMOUNT PARK - DAY

Beth wraps up the last bars of a Jewel song.  Bobby starts
to clap.  A crowd, which has gathered around her, joins him.
Bobby walks around with his cap and collects donations.  He
puts the down money in front of Beth.

                         BOBBY
            Way to go!

                         BETH
            Hey, I was just singing for you.

                         BOBBY
            That was great!  I didn't know you
            still sang.

                                                           31.

                         BETH
            It's been a while.  I'm surprised I
            can still hum a tune.  I'm trying
            to get back into the groove.

                         BOBBY
            You told me once that you wanted to
            be a singer when we were young.
            You really seemed serious.  I
            thought you would try to do it too.

                         BETH
            You remember!

                         BOBBY
            Sure I do.  You have a great voice.
            You're terrific.  You should do
            this for a living.
                   (picks up the cap and
                   shakes the money)
            You'll make a lot more than this.

                         BETH
            I wonder if it's too late.

                         BOBBY
            It's never too late for anything.

Beat.

                         BETH
            Anything?

                         BOBBY
            Sure.

                         BETH
            You really mean that?

                         BOBBY
            Yeah.  What's on your mind?

Beth ignores his question.

                         BETH
            It's so beautiful out here.
                   (rises and takes
                   Bobby's hand)
            Let's walk.

EXT. FAIRMOUNT PARK - LATER

Bobby and Dana are strolling along a path.  Beth has her
guitar slung across her back.

                                                           32.

Rollerbladers and bicyclists whiz by them.  The road cuts
through a tunnel of trees.  It's quite picturesque.

                         BOBBY
            Why did you send me those letters?

                         BETH
            I shouldn't have sent them to you.
            I didn't know Dana was interested
            in you again.  My timing was
            terrible.  I'm sure you threw them
            away.

                         BOBBY
            I've kept them and read them a
            dozen times.

Beth looks surprised but pleased.

                         BETH
            Really?

                         BOBBY
            I remember our times together.  It
            was not something I could easily
            forget.

                         BETH
                   (sighing)
            What does it matter now?  My sister
            went out West to bring you back.
            She succeeded.  This is foolish!

                         BOBBY
            Your letters -

                         BETH
            I shouldn't have written them.

                         BOBBY
            You have too many regrets.  Stop
            torturing yourself.

                         BETH
            But Dana drew you back - not me.

Beth goes and sits down at a bench along the path.  Bobby
joins her.

                         BOBBY
            Why does it have to be just one
            thing?  One person?

                                                           33.

                         BETH
            That's the truth?  My letters had
            something to do with you coming back?

                         BOBBY
            Yeah... it was one reason.

                         BETH
            It's hard to believe.

                         BOBBY
            It's the truth.

                         BETH
            I'm going to be  - I want to be
            incredibly bold with you.

                         BOBBY
            Shoot.

                         BETH
            You have to take me seriously.

                         BOBBY
            I will.

                         BETH
            I mean it.

                         BOBBY
            I mean it too.  What's on your mind?

Beat.

                         BETH
            Remember when we were kids, when
            you were half my age -

                         BOBBY
            I was never half your age.  You're
            only five years older than me.

                         BETH
            The point is, when I was finishing
            high school, you were just getting
            in.  But, you know, even with the
            age difference, we always clicked.

                         BOBBY
            We still do.

                                                           34.

                         BETH
            Seeing you again has brought back
            so many of the old memories back.
            I - this is so hard to say.

                         BOBBY
            Just say it, Beth.

Beat.

                         BETH
            Well, here comes the confession.
            Um... I've - I've always felt
            something for you, Bobby.  I've
            cared about you longer than I can
            remember.

Bobby looks surprised but doesn't seem disappointed.

                         BOBBY
            Really?

Beth looks at Bobby directly.

                         BETH
            Didn't you feel anything for me?

                         BOBBY
            You know I always I had a crush on
            you.

                         BETH
            It was more than that.  You were
            attracted to me.  I caught you
            staring at my boobs a lot when you
            were a little boy.

                         BOBBY
            You took a while to fill out, if I
            recall -

                         BETH
            Hey!

                         BOBBY
            - though when you filled out nicely
            and let me touch -

Bobby cuts himself off abruptly.

                                                           35.

                         BETH
                   (softly)
            That's right, I let you touch me,
            Bobby.  Tell me you didn't want to
            do it.

                         BOBBY
            Of course I wanted to!  What are
            you kidding me?  My hormones were
            raging at that age.

                         BETH
            Yours wasn't the only one.  I let
            you touch me because I felt
            something for you.  Our age
            difference didn't matter when it
            should have.
                   (beat)
            Didn't you feel the same way about
            me?  Weren't you attracted to me in
            the least - not just physically?
                   (touches her heart)
            Didn't you feel something inside
            here?

                         BOBBY
            My feelings were so raw back then.
            They weren't mature.

                         BETH
            You're all grown up now.  Did all
            your feelings for me disappear?

Bobby's struggling with his emotions.

                         BOBBY
            Beth, so much has changed.  You're
            married -

                         BETH
            To the wrong person!  My life's a
            mess, I know.  It hasn't worked out
            the way I dreamed it would.  I
            settled, because I thought I could
            never have you.

                         BOBBY
            You can't mean that.

                         BETH
            It's true!  Call me crazy.

                         BOBBY
            And if I belong to Dana now?

                                                           36.

Beat.

                         BETH
            I try not to think about that.  I
            don't want to get into a competition
            over you with my sister.

                         BOBBY
            This can't possibly work.

Beth looks at Bobby, close to tears.

                         BETH
            Don't ever expect me to stop caring
            about you, because it's never going
            to happen.  I'll always love you,
            Bobby.

EXT. SUBWAY ENTRANCE - LATER

Santo is about to cross the street to the subway entrance.
He stops suddenly when he spots Bobby and Beth coming out of
the subway.  He watches them embrace and then part ways.

They haven't spotted Santo.  He quickly ducks behind a
parked car.  Beth crosses the street and passes him without
noticing.

Santo watches her go, eyes narrowed in suspicion.

EXT. GINO'S PIZZA SHOP - DAY

It's along a busy street across from Dana's flower shop.

INT. GINO'S PIZZA SHOP - LATER

Mikey is twirling the pizza dough expertly.  The door bell
RINGS.  He sees Bobby walk in and quickly finishes making
the pie and puts it in the oven.

INT. GINO'S PIZZA SHOP - LATER

Bobby and Mikey are sitting at one of the tables.  Bobby has
a slice of pizza and a Coke in front of him.

                         MIKEY
            Come again?

                         BOBBY
            Look, I don't want to talk about it.
            I shouldn't have told you about
            this in the first place.

                                                           37.

                         MIKEY
            That's a crock of shit!  You
            wouldn't have brought it up in the
            first place if you didn't want to
            talk to about it.  You had a hard
            on for her since the first grade.
            Shit, I did too, but I got over it.

Bobby looks like he's in agony.

                         BOBBY
            Oh, man, she does something to me!

                         MIKEY
            You're supposed to be interested in
            her sister, man.

                         BOBBY
            I am.

                         MIKEY
            Yeah, that's why you're sneaking
            off to the park to see her.  Look,
            get over what happened between you
            Beth.  So you copped a feel.  You
            got lucky. It's ancient history.

                         BOBBY
            Did you ever tell anyone?  Because,
            I'll kill you -

                         MIKEY
            Look, these lips have been sealed.
            I'm not my wife.

                         BOBBY
            I shouldn't have told you.  What
            happened between us was personal.

                         MIKEY
            Personal?  You were in fucking
            diapers, man.

                         BOBBY
            Fuck you!

                         MIKEY
            Look, that's no way to treat your
            shrink.

                         BOBBY
            Fuck you.

                                                           38.

                         MIKEY
            Bobby, look, I'm here for you, babe.
            Just take it easy. I'm on your side.

Bobby grabs his head between his hands in misery.

                         BOBBY
            I'm such an asshole.

                         MIKEY
            Take it easy.  You're confused.
            You can't be the knight in shining
            armor for both of them.  You gotta
            chose one damsel.  The choice is
            obvious.  Big question is what are
            you gonna do about it?

                         BOBBY
            Who says I have to do anything?

                         MIKEY
            Take my advice, stay the fuck away
            from Beth.  You're playing with fire.

EXT. ACROSS THE STREET FROM BETH'S HOUSE - DAY

Bobby is waiting and watching from behind a parked van.

Rico and Robin come out of their house together.  Rachel
starts walking to school.  Rico leave for work, peeling away
in his Trans AM.

When the coast is clear, Bobby starts to cross the street
toward Beth's house.

EXT. BETH'S HOUSE - PORCH - LATER

Bobby knocks on the door.  Beth answers shortly.  She looks
surprised to see Bobby, but not displeased.

                         BOBBY
            I can't stop thinking about you.

                         BETH
            Me too.

Beth lets him inside.

INT. BETH'S HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - LATER

Bobby takes Beth's hand and pulls her to him.  She doesn't
resist.

                                                           39.

                         BOBBY
                   (whispering into her ear)
            I don't know what's happening to me.
            I can't stop -

Beth kisses him.

                         BETH
                   (in a husky voice)
            Make love to me.

They fall on the couch together and start to make love.

INT. MORELLI BROWNSTONE - KITCHEN - DAY

Bobby walks in as Stevie is leaving.  He is dressed for
soccer.  Mrs. Morelli is working on dinner, slicing carrots.

                         STEVIE
            Bobby!

                         BOBBY
            Hey, sport, where you off to?

                         STEVIE
            Big soccer game.  Can you come?

                         BOBBY
            Some other time.  I'm beat.

                         STEVIE
            You promise?

                         BOBBY
            I promise, pal.
                   (pats him on the back)
            Give 'em hell.

Stevie leaves.  Bobby raids the fridge and takes out a
carton of milk and a box of donuts.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Don't spoil your appetite.  I'll
            have dinner ready soon.

                         BOBBY
            I'm starving, ma.   I can't wait.

Mrs. Morelli is surprised to see Bobby sweating.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Good lord, what have you been up to?

                                                           40.

                         BOBBY
                   (quickly)
            Uh, nothing.  Just ...uh ...ran
            over here from the subway, that's
            all.

Bobby starts to walk out of the kitchen with the food.

                         MRS. MORELLI (O.S.)
            Hon.

Bobby turns.

                         BOBBY
            Yeah?

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Dana called a couple of times.
            She's been looking for you.

                         BOBBY
            She say why?

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Does she have to?  She's your
            girlfriend.

                         BOBBY
            Thanks, ma.

Bobby leaves the kitchen.  Mrs. Morelli looks at the door
with a slightly confused expression on her face.  She shakes
her head and returns to her work.

INT. BOBBY'S BEDROOM - LATER

Bobby is lying on his stomach on his bed.  The donut box is
empty and he has a milk mustaches.  There is an ALBUM lying
in front of him.  He has a few pictures out.  Several are of
Dana and a few are of Beth.  He has been staring at TWO
PICTURES in particular.  One is a recent picture of him and
Dana with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background.  The
other picture is a few years older.  It's a picture of Bobby
as a teenager with Beth.  They have their arms around each.
Both are smiling.

Bobby grabs his face between his hands and sighs.  He rolls
over on his bed and closes his eyes.  There is anguish on
his face.

INT. BOBBY'S BEDROOM - LATER

There is a knock on the door.  Bobby is startled out of his
day dreams.  He thinks it's his mom.

                                                           41.

                         BOBBY
            What is it, ma?

                         DANA (O.S.)
            It's me.  Can I come in?

                         BOBBY
            Um, Danny -

Bobby tries to quickly stuff the pictures of Beth back into
the album.  Dana walks in without waiting for an answer.  A
picture falls off of Bobby's bed without him noticing.

                         DANA
            Hey, where have you been?

                         BOBBY
            What do you mean?

                         DANA
            I called and left a couple of
            messages with your mom.  You never
            got back to me.

                         BOBBY
            I'm sorry.  I was out.

                         DANA
            Where?

Beat.

                         BOBBY
            Just checking out the old
            neighborhood.  What's so important?

                         DANA
            You have way too much time on your
            hands.  I need to recruit you, hon.

                         BOBBY
            How can I help you?

                         DANA
            I've got this big flower shipment
            coming in tomorrow morning.  The
            guy who usually helps me out called
            in sick.  Can I count on you?

                         BOBBY
            Absolutely.

Dana kisses Bobby, licking his milk mustache away.

                                                           42.

                         DANA
            Thanks, you're a sweetheart.

Dana sees the ALBUM lying on the bed.

                         DANA
            Hey, what's this?

Dana pick up the album and opens it up.  The first picture
she sees is of her and Bobby together as young teenagers.
Her face lights up.

                         DANA
            Look at us, this was before you
            went off to college!

                         BOBBY
            You were very pretty.

                         DANA
            Were?

                         BOBBY
            And still are.

Dana starts to flip through the album.  Bobby looks on
nervously.

                         DANA
            These are priceless.  God, it seems
            ages ago...  Wow, you even have a
            picture of me from kindergarten.
            Where did you get that?

                         BOBBY
            I swiped it from one of your mom's
            albums years ago.

Dana continues to flip through the album.

                         DANA
            You know I swiped a couple of
            pictures of you from your mom's
            album too.

                         BOBBY
            So, you were the culprit.

                         DANA
            Hey, Beth's graduation picture.
            How did you get this?

Bobby shrugs.

                                                           43.

                         BOBBY
            I don't even remember.  It was just
            in there.

                         DANA
            She was so pretty.
                   (looks directly at Bobby)
            You know what?  I knew you had a
            crush on her when we were little
            kids.  Back then, I had this
            childish fear that you would run
            off with her someday.

They both chuckle, but Bobby chuckle is forced.  Dana closes
the album and looks at him with a soft expression.

                         DANA
            You kept all these pictures of me.
            I didn't know you were this
            sentimental. I'm so flattered.
                   (reaches out and
                   touches Bobby's hand)
            We go back a long way.  I'm so glad
            that were back together.

                         BOBBY
                   (softly)
            Me too.

                         DANA
            Let's do it, Bobby.

                         BOBBY
            What?

                         DANA
            Let's make love.

                         BOBBY
            My mother's downstairs.

                         DANA
            That didn't stop us last time.

                         BOBBY
            Danny  -

Dana starts kissing Bobby and settles on top of him.  He is
powerless to resist and they start to make love.

INT. BOBBY'S BEDROOM - LATER

Bobby and Dana are making love, both naked and sweaty.  He
is on top, sliding in and out of her.

                                                           44.

They are both breathless and in the throes of passion.

                         DANA
                   (in ecstasy)
            God, this is so good.  I couldn't
            live without you!  Tell me you love
            me.

Bobby says nothing.

                         DANA (CONT.)
            Tell me you love me!

                         BOBBY
                   (whisper)
            You know I do.

                         DANA
            Tell me I'm the only one you'll
            ever love.  Tell me!

Bobby can't bring himself to say anything.  We see both
ecstasy and agony on his face.

                         DANA
            Tell me!

Bobby's is about to say something.  Stops.  His eyes come to
rest on the PICTURE OF BETH AND HE lying on the floor.

INT. MORELLI BROWNSTONE - NIGHT

Mrs. Morelli answers the front door.  It's Beth.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Beth, come in.

Beth steps inside into the living room.

                         BETH
            Mrs. Morelli, hi, how are you doing?

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Good.  How are you?

                         BETH
            Okay.  It's been a while.  Nice to
            see you again.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            We missed you the day Bobby came
            back.

                                                           45.

                         BETH
            I wanted to come.  Sorry I couldn't
            make it.
                   (beat)
            Um, Mrs. Morelli, is Bobby here?

                         MRS. MORELLI
            He's out.

                         BETH
            Do you know where he is?

                         MRS. MORELLI
            He's out and about.  He's got too
            much time on his hands these days.
            Can I help you?

                         BETH
            Um, I need to talk to him personally.
            It's kind of important.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Is everything all right, honey?

                         BETH
            Um... yeah.  Do you know when
            Bobby's coming home?

                         MRS. MORELLI
            He's should be home for dinner soon.
            Why don't you join us?

                         BETH
            Well, I -

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Is it Rachel?  You don't have a
            babysitter?

                         BETH
            Rico's working late tonight, so
            she's at my mom's.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Good, no excuse then.  You're
            staying.  You can help me set the
            table.

INT. NICK'S ALE HOUSE - NIGHT

Bobby and Mike have been playing darts.  Bobby hits the
bullseye and wins the game.

                                                           46.

                         BOBBY
            You're buying!

                         MIKEY
            Fuck!

INT. NICK'S ALE HOUSE - LATER

Bobby and Mikey are sitting at the bar nursing beers.

                         MIKEY
            How's things going on with you and
            Dana?

                         BOBBY
            No complaints.

                         MIKEY
            That thing we discussed before...
            about you and Beth.  Did you nip it
            in the bud yet?

Booby is silent.  Mikey gives him a hard stare.

                         MIKEY (CONT.)
            You telling me it's not a dead issue?

Bobby looks away.

                         BOBBY
            I didn't say that.

                         MIKEY
            Jesus fucking Christ!  You can't
            even look me in the eye.  Hey, man,
            do you love Dana?

                         BOBBY
            She's wonderful.

                         MIKEY
            You didn't answer my fucking
            question.

                         BOBBY
            I already told you once.  Yeah, I
            love her.  She's fun to be with.

                         MIKEY
            But her sister's better in the
            sack, right?

Bobby slams his fist on the table.

                                                           47.

                         BOBBY
            Fuck you!

Some beer is spilt.  People glance at them.  Bobby calms down.

                         BOBBY (CONT.)
            Mikey, you're my best friend, but
            don't let something like that ever
            cross your lips again.  Don't cross
            that line, capice?

Mikey holds up his hands.

                         MIKEY
            Capice.  Just take it easy, all
            right?  I'm on you're side.
                   (takes a sip of bear)
            Are you tellin' me that you're
            still in love with Beth after all
            these years?

Beat.

                         BOBBY
            I've come to realize that I still
            care deeply about her.  We gel.

                         MIKEY
            What kind of gel are you talking
            about?  Did you lay any pipe?

                         BOBBY
            You're getting uncomfortably close
            to that line again.

                         MIKEY
            Look, if something's going on
            between you two and Rico finds out-

                         BOBBY
            Fuck Rico, I'm not afraid of him.

                         MIKEY
            Don't lose your head over this
            thing, Bobby.  Maybe you just want
            her because you can't have her.
            She's forbidden fruit.

                         BOBBY
            Mikey, I can't explain to you
            what's going on inside of me.
            You've got two kids, man.  Can you
            choose between them?

                                                           48.

                         MIKEY
            That's totally different.  You're
            in the wrong ballpark.

Bobby looks miserable.  Polishes off his beer in one gulp.

                         MIKEY (CONT.)
            You're not shitting me, are you?
            This is for real, isn't it?

Bobby nods "yes" silently.

                         MIKEY (CONT.)
            Shit we're talking about a fucking
            love triangle here.

INT. MORELLI BROWNSTONE - KITCHEN - NIGHT

Bobby rushes inside the kitchen, breathless.

                         BOBBY
            Am I late?

                         MRS. MORELLI
            You're just in time.  We have a
            guest, honey.

Bobby sees Beth for the first time.  She is sitting at the
small breakfast table in the kitchen.

                         BOBBY
                   (surprised)
            Beth.

                         BETH
            Bobby.  Hi.

                         BOBBY
            I didn't know you were coming.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            She came to see you.  I asked her
            to stay for dinner, but I have to
            leave.

                         BOBBY
            Where you going, ma?

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Scotty's got a parent-teacher
            meeting today at school.  I forgot
            all about it.  I have to meet him
            there.

                                                           49.

                         BETH
            But, Mrs. Morelli, you didn't eat.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            There'll be some snacks there, hon.
                   (takes off her apron)
            I'm already running late.  Enjoy,
            both of you.

Mrs. Morelli leaves the kitchen.  A moment later we hear the
front door open and close.

Bobby turns to Beth.

                         BOBBY
            Well, this is a pleasant surprise.

INT. MORELLI BROWNSTONE - KITCHEN - LATER

Bobby and are eating dinner.

                         BETH
            This is really good.

                         BOBBY
            You know we could light some
            candles and make this more romantic?

Beat.

                         BETH
            Bobby, I came to tell you something
            important - to warn you.

                         BOBBY
            About what?

                         BETH
            Rico.  He knows you've been over a
            couple of times.

                         BOBBY
            How did he find out?

                         BETH
            Rachel happened to mention it once
            and he gave her the third degree.
            He's the jealous type.  Naturally
            suspicious.

Bobby mulls it over quietly, chewing on his food.

                         BOBBY
            Does he suspect anything?

                                                           50.

                         BETH
            He's paranoid.  I told him nothing
            was going on between us.

                         BOBBY
            But something is.

                         BETH
            Just lay low for a while.  I just
            wanted to give you the head's up.
            Rico's got a bad temper.

Beat.

                         BOBBY
            Does this mean I have to stay away
            from you?

                         BETH
            Maybe it's for the best.

                         BOBBY
            You could have called and warned
            me, but you didn't.  You wanted to
            see me as much as I want to see you.

                         BETH
                   (sighing heavily)
            I don't know what's happening to me.
            It's so hard being away from you.

Beat.

                         BOBBY
            Mom's not going to be back for a
            while.
                   (rises and takes
                   Beth's hands)
            I don't know when we'll be alone
            like this again.

Beth resists.

                         BETH
            Bobby, I don't know if this -

Bobby leans down and starts to kiss Beth along the shoulders
and neck.  She doesn't have the will to resist and follows
him out of the kitchen.

INT. BOBBY'S BEDROOM - LATER

Beth is lying on top of Bobby's chest.  He is brushing her
hair gently with his hand.

                                                           51.

A sheet is covering their naked bodies.

                         BETH
            I didn't expect this to happen
            tonight.

                         BOBBY
            Any regrets?

                         BETH
            I live with so many regrets.
            There's some many things about the
            past I would change if I could.

                         BOBBY
            What about what happened between us
            so long ago?  We wouldn't be here
            together right now if it hadn't.

                         BETH
            Any sane person would say it
            shouldn't have happened.

                         BOBBY
            But it brought us together.

                         BETH
            Is that a good thing, Bobby?  I
            think we're being incredibly selfish.

                         BOBBY
            We let our feelings out  That's not
            being selfish.  That's called
            having a heart.

                         BETH
            I'm making love to my sister's
            boyfriend.  God, I feel so guilty
            about this.

                         BOBBY
            You can't turn your feelings off
            like a switch.  I know you can't.

                         BETH
            My mind tells me this has to stop,
            but my heart won't listen.  Women
            have these foolish tendencies to
            listen to their hearts.

Beat.

                         BOBBY
            Are you in love with me, Beth?

                                                           52.

                         BETH
            You know I am.
                   (looks into Bobby's eyes)
            You have so much to offer a woman.
            Why complicate your life with me?

                         BOBBY
            I like you.  I like your personality.
            I like everything about you.  The
            foundation of real love is made
            from like.

                         BETH
            But I'm married.

                         BOBBY
            It tore my heart out when you
            married Rico.  It's so damned hard
            for me even today.  But I love you,
            honey.  I can't help myself.

Beth kisses Bobby's chest.

                         BETH
            Ditto.

INT. BOBBY'S BEDROOM - LATER

Bobby and Beth are propped up against the head board with
pillows.

                         BETH
            You know, I'm not a fool.  I know
            you love Dana too.

Bobby doesn't say anything.

                         BETH (CONT.)
            I know this and I still wonder how
            can one man love two women equally?
                   (beat)
            I don't want to share you, Bobby.

                         BOBBY
            I'm sharing you with Rico.

                         BETH
            It's not the same thing.

                         BOBBY
            You're sleeping with him.

                         BETH
            Let's not talk about that.

                                                           53.

                         BOBBY
            Do you still let him touch you?

Beth looks uncomfortable.  Doesn't answer.

                         BOBBY (CONT.)
                   (angry)
            He still touches you, doesn't he?

                         BETH
            Bobby, don't ask me these questions.
            I don't want to say anything that
            will hurt you.

                         BOBBY
            You have to leave.  Divorce him,
            Beth.

                         BETH
            Do you think it would be that easy?
            We have a child together.  He would
            never let me and Rachel go.

                         BOBBY
                   (in anguish)
            I can't take you being with him.

                         BETH
            I can't take it either.

INT. BOBBY'S BEDROOM - LATER

Beth is on top of Bobby's chest, face to face.

                         BETH
            How long is this going to last
            between us?

                         BOBBY
            Who says it's going to end?

                         BETH
            You know it has to.

                         BOBBY
            Don't talk about endings.  It's too
            early for that.

                         BETH
            Do we have a future together?

                         BOBBY
            I don't know, honey.  That chapter
            hasn't been written yet.

                                                           54.

Bobby kisses Beth on the lips.  They start to make love again.

EXT. DANA'S FLOWER SHOP - DAY

Bobby is helping Dana to unload a shipment of flowers and
plants from a truck.

                         DANA
            Did I tell you were a sweetheart?

                         BOBBY
            Not lately.

                         DANA
            I'd be willing to take you on
            permanently.

                         BOBBY
            Darling, you couldn't afford me.

                         DANA
            All right, since you have plenty of
            dough, how about a nice candlelight
            dinner tonight?
                   (beat)
            Maybe I'll be desert afterwards...

                         BOBBY
                   (smiling)
            Sounds good.

                         DANA
            God, that made me sound like a
            whore, didn't it?

                         BOBBY
            Oh, but I like it when you talk
            dirty to me.

EXT. DANA'S FLOWER SHOP - LATER

About half the truck has been unloaded.  Bobby is trying to
shoo away a bug that's driving him nuts.

                         DANA
            Hey, don't kill that.  That's a
            mayfly.

                         BOBBY
            So?  It's only a pesky bug.

Dana holds Booby's hand and lets the mayfly fly away.

                                                           55.

                         DANA
            That pesky bug, as you call it,
            lives only twenty-four hours and,
            during that time, it has only one
            goal.

                         BOBBY
            What's that?

                         DANA
            It tires to procreate before it dies.

                         BOBBY
            So it tries to have sex like crazy?

                         DANA
            Uh-huh.  Why would you want to take
            that away from it?

                         BOBBY
            I wouldn't.
                   (beat)
            Want to make like a mayfly tonight?

The phone RINGS inside the flower shop.

                         DANA
            Hold that thought.  I'll be right
            back.

Dana runs into the shop to answer the phone.

EXT. DANA'S FLOWER SHOP - LATER

Bobby is trying to carry a large fern into the flower shop.
Rico and Santo suddenly materialize blocking his way.  Their
arms are clasped.  They look upset.

                         SANTO
            Hey, flower boy, you look busy.

Bobby shifts the fern to his hip so he can see them better.

                         BOBBY
            What do you guys want?

                         RICO
            We got issues, man.

                         BOBBY
            What are you talking about?

                                                           56.

                         RICO
            Which sister are you really
            interested in, huh?

                         BOBBY
            I don't know what the fuck you're
            taking about.

Santo presses a finger into Bobby's chest.

                         SANTO
            Don't play fuckin' dumb.  He's
            talking about Beth, California boy.

                         BOBBY
            You better get that finger off my
            chest.

                         SANTO
            Or what?

                         RICO
            Cool it.  I'll handle it.

Santo grudgingly steps back.

                         RICO
            Look, Bobby, why the hell you been
            hangin' around Beth so much lately?

                         BOBBY
            What are you keeping tabs on me?

                         RICO
            She's my wife, pal.  Wake up!

                         BOBBY
            Get lost.  There's nothing going on.

                         SANTO
            I saw you guys hugging outside of
            the subway.

Bobby looks a tad nervous, but he tries not to show it.

                         BOBBY
            Chrissake, she's Dana's sister.
            You guys have been sniffing too
            much glue.

Bobby tries to step around them, but Rico blocks his way.

                                                           57.

                         RICO
            Why don't you keep your dick
            pointed at Dana instead of my wife!

                         BOBBY
            Get the fuck outta here, Rico.
            You're fucking paranoid.

                         RICO
            Look, I know you've been over my
            house a couple of times for no good
            reason.  I got a feeling about you
            and Beth.  Stay away from my
            goddamned house and my fucking
            wife, got me?

Bobby pushed past Rico but stops when he hears a sudden
CRASH behind him.  He turns around to see Santo standing
next to a SHATTERED POT.

                         BOBBY
            You asshole!

Bobby sets the fern down and takes a menacing step towards
Santo.

                         SANTO
            You wanna piece of me?  Gotta warn
            you, man.
                   (bunches his fists
                   theatrically in the air)
            These things got a mind of their own.

Dana suddenly rushes out of the flower shop.

                         DANA
            I heard something crash.

She is surprised to see Santo and Rico.

                         DANA (CONT.)
            What are you guys doing here?

                         RICO
                   (snidely)
            Hello, sister-in-law.

                         SANTO
                   (licking his lips)
            Hey, you looking good as ever, babe.

Dana gives Santo the middle finger and turns to Rico.  There
is no love lost between them.

                                                           58.

                         DANA
            What happened to the pot?

Santo points to Bobby.

                         SANTO
            Why don't you ask lover boy here.

                         DANA
            I'm asking you guys.

                         RICO
            You got other things to worry your
            pretty little head over.  Keep your
            fucking boy here on a tight leash.
            Make sure he doesn't get confused
            between you and your sister again!

Rico and Santo leave in a huff.

EXT. DANA'S FLOWER SHOP - LATER

Bobby is picking up the pieces of the shattered pot.  Dana
is helping him.

                         DANA
            Bobby, what happened?  What was
            going on between you guys?

                         BOBBY
            They were just being jerks.

                         DANA
            That's nothing new.
                   (beat)
            They came here to see you.  Why?

Bobby ignores the question.

                         BOBBY
            I'm sorry about this plant.

                         DANA
            Answer my question.  What did Rico
            mean by a tight leash?  What did he
            mean about you getting confused
            between me and Beth?

                         BOBBY
            Nothing.

                                                           59.

                         DANA
            Obviously, there is something.
            Otherwise, he wouldn't be so pissed
            of at you.  What's going on?

                         BOBBY
                   (irritated)
            Look, will you let it rest?  Don't
            worry about it.

                         DANA
            Are you saying it's none of my
            business?

                         BOBBY
            Yeah, that's what I'm saying.  It's
            none of your business.

Bobby grabs a plant from the truck and walks into the flower
shop.

INT. DANA'S FLOWER SHOP - LATER

The truck has been completely unloaded.  Bobby gives Dana a
quick peck on the cheeks and is about to walk out of the
flower shop.

                         BOBBY
            See you later.

                         DANA
            I thought we were going to have
            dinner together?

                         BOBBY
            Maybe some other time.  I'm kinda
            of tired.

Bobby walks out of the shop.  Dana watches him leave with a
hurt and confused expression on her face.

INT. BOBBY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT

Bobby is lying awake on his bed staring up at the ceiling.
He looks upset.

He rolls over and opens a drawer in the lamp table, taking
out TWO PICTURES.  The top picture is a pretty head shot of
Dana.  He looks at it with affection and kisses it.  Then
with some resistance, he looks at the picture of Beth
underneath.

It's also a head shot.  He looks at it with longing and
sadness.

                                                           60.

He goes to put it away but then can't resist the urge to
kiss it before putting it away.

INT. BETH'S HOUSE - KITCHEN - NIGHT

Beth is sitting at the breakfast table with a phone to her
ear.

                         BETH
            I knew they'd confront you.  It's
            my fault.

INTERCUT PHONE CONVERSATION - BETH AND BOBBY

Bobby is lying on his bed talking on the phone.

                         BOBBY
            It's not your fault.

                         BETH
            I'm sorry about the plant.  They're
            such assholes.

                         BOBBY
            Who told you about that?

                         BETH
            Santo was bragging about it.  They
            said next time they would crack
            your -

Beth clams up suddenly.

                         BOBBY
            Crack what?

                         BETH
            Look, you have to be careful.  They
            like to push people around.

                         BOBBY
            I'm a big boy, Beth.

                         BETH
            You have to  -

                         RACHEL (O.S.)
            Mom!

                         BETH
            What?

                         BOBBY
            Beth?

                                                           61.

                         BETH
                   (to Rachel)
            What?

                         RACHEL (O.S.)
            Come over here!

                         BETH
            Bobby, you there?

                         BOBBY
            Yeah.

                         BETH
            Can I call you back in a couple of
            minutes?

                         BOBBY
            What's going on?

                         BETH
            Rachel.  I'll call you back in a
            minute.

Beth hangs up the phone and runs out of the kitchen.

INT. BOBBY'S BEDROOM - LATER

Bobby is lying on his bed with the cordless phone next him,
waiting for Beth to call back.

There is a KNOCK at the door.

                         BOBBY
            Come in.  Are you back -

Dana steps inside.  Bobby sits up on his bed, surprised.

                         BOBBY
            Danny.

                         DANA
            Hey, Bobby.

                         BOBBY
            Did ma let you in?  I didn't hear
            the door bell.

                         DANA
            She was running out to get some
            milk as I was coming in.  She told
            to me to go on up.  I hope I'm not
            bothering you.

                                                           62.

Beat.

                         BOBBY
            Listen... about yesterday  -

                         DANA
            I hate arguing with you, Bobby.

                         BOBBY
            I was an asshole.  I'm sorry.

Dana sits down on the bed next to Bobby, setting her purse
down.

                         DANA
            Listen, we'd be idiots to let those
            jerks create trouble between us,
            but I couldn't stop thinking about
            what Rico said...
                   (beat)
            It's really important to me that we
            have a strong relationship.  I
            wanna know that we're totally open
            with each other.

                         BOBBY
            What are you saying, Danny?  Are
            you saying that you don't trust me?

                         DANA
            I'm not saying that.  You've always
            been honest with me.

                         BOBBY
            Then why are you giving me the
            third degree?

                         DANA
            Listen, Rico had some beef with you.
            He said those things about you and
            Robin for some reason.  I'm your
            girlfriend.  I have a right to be
            curious.

The phone RINGS.  Bobby doesn't pick it up.  It RINGS three
times.  Bobby lets it ring without answering it.

                         DANA
            Aren't you going to answer that?

                         BOBBY
            They'll call back if it's important
            enough.

                                                           63.

It keeps ringing.

                         DANA
            It might be important.

                         BOBBY
            Don't worry about it.

It keeps on ringing.  Dana suddenly picks up the phone.

                         DANA
                   (into the phone)
            Hello?

There is no answer.

                         DANA (CONT.)
                   (into the phone)
            Hello?

There is a CLICK as somebody hangs up.  Dana looks confused.

                         BOBBY
            It was probably just a prank call.

Dana doesn't look convinced, regards Bobby again.

                         DANA
            Are you going to tell me why Rico
            was pissed off at you or not?

                         BOBBY
            I think he was pissed off because I
            stopped by to visit Beth a couple
            of times.

                         DANA
            Why were you there?

                         BOBBY
            Remember, the ziti I dropped by for
            your mother?

                         DANA
            You said you were over there a
            couple of times.

                         BOBBY
            Look, when I was there that night,
            I found Beth all shaken up and
            crying.  There were broken dishes
            all over the kitchen floor.  She'd
            been fighting with Rico.  The
            bastard hit her.

                                                           64.

                         DANA
            That's nothing new.

                         BOBBY
            I was worried about her and Rachel
            so I stopped back a couple of times
            to see how they were doing.  It's
            no big deal.  I can't help it if
            Rico's insecure and jealous.

                         DANA
            You should've told me about this
            before.

                         BOBBY
            I have to give you an itinerary of
            every place I go?

                         DANA
            I never said that.

                         BOBBY
            The let this matter rest.  It's
            stupid.  Can we move on?

                         DANA
            I know you won't let me down,
            Bobby...

Bobby avoids looking Dana in the eyes.

                         BOBBY
            I won't.
                   (beat)
            Did you have dinner yet?

                         DANA
            No.

Bobby gets up and takes Dana's hands.

                         BOBBY
            Let me make up for yesterday.
            We'll go into the city.  Anyplace
            you want.  Money's not an issue.
            All right?

Dana nods "yes" slowly.

INT. MORELLI BROWNSTONE - STAIRS - LATER

Bobby and Dana are going down the stairs.  Dana stops
suddenly.

                                                           65.

                         DANA
            Shoot, I forgot my purse!  I'll be
            right there.

Dana heads back up the stairs.

INT. BOBBY'S BEDROOM - LATER

Dana enters Bobby's room and picks up her purse from the bed.
She sees the CORDLESS PHONE lying on Bobby's bed.

On sudden impulse, she takes the receiver and dials *69.
Someone picks up the phone.  It's Beth.

                         BETH (O.S.)
            Hello?

Dana recognizes her sister's voice instantly.  She doesn't
reply.

                         BETH (O.S.)
            Hello?
                   (beat)
            Bobby?

Dana hangs up, looking terribly hurt.

INT. BETH'S HOUSE - DAY

Rachel answers the door. It's Bobby.

                         RACHEL
            Hi, Uncle Bobby.

                         BOBBY
            Hey, Rachel, how's it going?

                         RACHEL
            Okay.

                         BOBBY
            Is your mom home?

                         RACHEL
            She went down the street to get
            some eggs.  We're baking a cake
            together.

                         BOBBY
            Oh, yeah?  What kind?

                         RACHEL
            Chocolate.

                                                           66.

Bobby is still on the porch.  We see him glance around
nervously.

                         BOBBY
            Do you think I can wait for her
            inside?

Rachel lets Bobby in.  He follows her into...

THE LIVING ROOM

Bobby spots Rachel's backpack on the couch.

                         BOBBY
            Did you just get back from school?

                         RACHEL
            Uh-huh.
                   (beat)
            Uncle Bobby, I asked mommy the
            other day when you were going to
            visit again and she said you
            wouldn't be coming for a while.

Bobby squeezes her cheek.

                         BOBBY
            Well, honey, I just couldn't stay
            away from you.

Rachel sighs deeply, deflating like a punctured balloon.

                         BOBBY (CONT.)
            What's wrong?

                         RACHEL
            Nothing.

Bobby makes Rachel sit down on the couch next to him.  He
puts an arm around her shoulders.

                         BOBBY
            Come on, what are you so upset about?

                         RACHEL
            Its suck in this house.  They're
            always fighting.

                         BOBBY
            Things will get better.

                         RACHEL
            When?  Mommy and daddy hate each
            other.  Daddy hurts -

                                                           67.

Rachel clamps up suddenly.  Bobby's lips tremble in anger.

                         RACHEL
            You're different, Uncle Bobby.
            You're so nice to mommy.

                         BOBBY
            She deserves the best, sweetheart.

                         RACHEL
            I wish you were -

Rachel clamps up again.

                         BOBBY
            I was what?

                         RACHEL
            Nothing...

                         BOBBY
            Come on, Rachel, what is it?

Beat.

                         RACHEL
            I wish I had a dad like you.  You
            make mommy happy.

Bobby embraces Rachel.

                         BOBBY
                   (whispers into her ear)
            I wish I had somebody like you too.

INT. BETH'S HOUSE - KITCHEN - LATER

Bobby and Beth are seated at the breakfast table.

                         BETH
            I thought we agreed to stay away
            from each other for a while?

                         BOBBY
            I know  -

                         BETH
            Especially this house.  Rico could
            be back any second.  This is risky,
            Bobby.

                         BOBBY
            Doesn't he have work today?

                                                           68.

                         BETH
            He took the day off to work on his
            car.  He just went out to get an
            oil filter.

Beat.

                         BOBBY
            How long am I going to have to stay
            away from you?

                         BETH
            I don't know.

                         BOBBY
            I can't keep doing this.  I need to
            see you, Beth.  It's killing me.

Beth struggles with her emotions.

                         BETH
            Look, we have to take a step back
            and see if we're taking the right
            road.  This is risky.  You promised -

                         BOBBY
            I don't care.  I need you.

Beth gets up.

                         BETH
            Listen, you have to leave.  Rico's
            gonna be back soon.

                         BOBBY
            We need to talk to each other.

                         BETH
            Bobby -

                         BOBBY
            I'm not leaving unless you tell me
            when.

Beth looks really nervous.

                         BETH
            All right, tomorrow morning after I
            drop Rachel off at school.  Meet me
            behind the playground at eight
            o'clock.  Now, go, please!

                         BOBBY
            Kiss me.

                                                           69.

Beth hesitates but then kisses Bobby quickly.

                         BETH
            Go!

Bobby gives her another kiss and splits.

INT. RICO'S TRANS AM - LATER

Rico's gunning his Trans AM down the street.

He suddenly slams his fist against the steering wheel when
he spots Bobby walking away from his house.

                         RICO
            Son of a bitch!

Rico parks his car with a SCREECH and storms into his house.

EXT. NICK'S ALE HOUSE - NIGHT

Bobby comes out of the bar with Mikey.  They part ways and
head off in different directions.

Bobby has had a couple of drinks and is a little unsteady on
his feet.  He takes a turn off the main street onto...

A QUIET STREET

Somebody is following Bobby, but he doesn't seem to notice.
The man following him suddenly WHISTLES and a man steps out
from behind a tree into Bobby's path.  We can't make him out
in the dark, but we can see the flash of BRASS KNUCKLES as
he SMACKS his palm.

Bobby tries to walk around him, but the man following him
rushes him from behind and holds him.  The other man starts
to punch him.  Bobby's drunk.  Doesn't have the strength to
fight back.  They start to beat the crap out of him.

INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - DAY

Stevie is dozing off on a chair next to Bobby's bed.  Bobby's
got an IV stuck to his arm.  He's all bandaged up with
bruises on his face.

Bobby's eyes flutter open.  He tries to orient himself.
Notices Stevie.

                         BOBBY
                   (weakly)
            Hey, sport.

Stevie snaps instantly awake.

                                                           70.

                         STEVIE
            You're awake!

Stevie heads out of the room.

                         STEVIE (CONT.)
            Bobby's awake!

INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - LATER

Stevie, Mrs. Morelli and Mikey are gathered around Bobby's
bed.  They're doting over him.  Driving him crazy.  Dana is
standing apart, silently looking out the window.

                         MIKEY
            Look, pal.  Don't die on me now.
            You just got back.

                         BOBBY
            I'll be all right.  Take it easy.

Bobby's eyes dart to the window.  His mother notices.  She
shoos Mikey and Stevie towards the door.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            That's enough.  Come on, boys.
            Let's go.
                   (leans over and
                   whispers to Bobby)
            She's been up all night.

Mrs. Morelli leaves the room leaving Bobby and Dana are
alone now.  Bobby calls out to Dana.

                         BOBBY
            Danny.

Dana comes over and stands next to his bed.  She's has a
difficult time looking at Bobby's beat up face.

                         DANA
            How are you feeling?

                         BOBBY
            Sore all over.

                         DANA
            The doctor said you have a couple
            of cracked ribs.  It could have
            been a lot worse.  You're lucky to
            be alive.

                                                           71.

                         BOBBY
            I think they used brass knuckles.
            Fucking cowards.

Beat.

                         DANA
            Who did this to you?

Bobby ignores the question.

                         BOBBY
            Mom said you were up all night.
            You didn't have to do that.

                         DANA
            That's what people do when they're
            committed to each other.
                   (beat)
            Do you want to tell me who did this
            to you?

                         BOBBY
            You seem pretty sure that I know.

                         DANA
            I think you do.

                         BOBBY
            It happened so quickly.  I couldn't
            make out their faces...

                         DANA
            I bet it was Rico and Santo.

                         BOBBY
            I wouldn't put it past them.

                         DANA
            I'm not going to pretend to be
            surprised.  You couldn't stay away
            from Beth, could you?

                         BOBBY
            Come on.  I told you-

                         DANA
            Stop lying to me!  I'm not as naive
            as you think I am.  Don't you think
            a woman has intuition?  Especially
            when it concerns my sister.

Beth walks in.  Everyone freezes for an instant.

                                                           72.

                         BETH
            Dana.

Dana's anguish and anger are plainly visible on her face.

                         DANA
            Why don't I leave you two alone.

                         BETH
            You don't have to go.  I'll -

                         DANA
            Yes, I do!

Dana stalks out of the room

INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - LATER

Beth is standing next to Bobby's bed.  She reaches over to
take his hand but stops herself.  She's very distressed,
tears beading her eyes.

                         BETH
            I told you to stay away.  You
            should have listened to me!

Bobby doesn't say anything.

                         BETH (CONT.)
            Rico saw you leave my house
            yesterday, you know that?  He was
            furious.  I tried to contact you -

Bobby notices the bruise on Beth's cheek that makeup couldn't
fully hide.

                         BOBBY
            He fucking hit you!

                         BETH
            If you had stayed away like I told
            you to, maybe I wouldn't have
            gotten hit!

Bobby recoils as if he's been struck a physical blow.  Beth
instantly regrets her words.

                         BETH
            I'm so sorry.  I shouldn't have
            said that.

                         BOBBY
            Stop apologizing.  It's my goddamned
            fault.

                                                           73.

                         BETH
            If anyone deserves an apology, it's
            Dana.  She knows something's going
            on. We've created a mess.

                         BOBBY
            I'll talk to her... try to make her
            understand.

                         BETH
            Make her understand what?  Do you
            think she'll understand your
            feelings about me?  Pete's sake,
            she's in love with you!

                         BOBBY
            God knows I care about her... but I
            need you too.
                   (beat)
            I - I love you.

                         BETH
            Don't say that.  Please.  We have
            to stop.

                         BOBBY
            I can't help myself.  I love you,
            Beth.

Bobby reaches out to Beth.

                         BETH
                   (moving away)
            No.  I'm sorry.  This is crazy.
            I've got to straighten this mess out.

Beth walks out of the room.

INT. HOSPITAL WAITING ROOM - LATER

Dana is sitting dejectedly on a couch.  Mrs. DeStafano,
Mikey and Stevie are also there.

Beth approaches Dana.

                         BETH
            Can we talk?

Dana looks up at Beth but remains silent.  Beth points down
the corridor.

                         BETH (CONT.)
            Let's go over there.

                                                           74.

Dana rises and follows Beth over to...

THE CORRIDOR

                         BETH
            Did Bobby tell you who beat him up?

                         DANA
            He couldn't say.  But I'm sure it
            was Rico and Santo.
                   (beat)
            He couldn't stay way from you,
            could he?

                         BETH
            Dana, don't jump to conclusions -

                         DANA
            I know you hung up when I answered
            the phone in Bobby's room the other
            day.

Beth is about to reply.  Dana cuts her off.

                         DANA (CONT.)
            Look, don't lie to me.  I did a
            star 69.

Beat.

                         BETH
            You have to let me explain...

                         DANA
            I don't want your explanations or
            Bobby's.  Both of you guys have
            been lying to me.  He wouldn't pick
            up the phone when you called the
            other day, because I was there.
            Whenever he's with me, I feel like
            his mind's somewhere else.  Anytime
            your name is mentioned, there's a
            reaction from him.  I knew he
            always had a crush on you as a
            kid - but what the hell is this?
            I'm almost afraid to think about
            what's been going on behind my back.

                         BETH
            Don't torture yourself.  Bobby's
            just confused.  We're just good
            friends.

Dana snorts.

                                                           75.

                         DANA
            Good friends?  Yeah, right.  Just
            give me a simple answer.  What's
            going on between you two?

Beth takes a deep breath.

                         BETH
            Look, we all grew up together.  The
            three of us.  We're all close, you
            know that.

                         DANA
            Can't you give me a straight answer?

                         BETH
            I'm trying to.

                         DANA
            You're beating around the bush.
            I'm not that stupid, you know?
            Maybe if you didn't have such a
            lousy marriage, you wouldn't be
            interested in my boyfriend!

Beth looks hurt.  Dana instantly regrets her words.

                         DANA
            Beth, I didn't mean that.

                         BETH
            It's okay... I've learned to
            swallow a lot of bitter pills. You
            know marriage is the only war you
            sleep with the enemy. It can be
            rough sometimes.

Dana notices the bruise and Beth's cheeks.  She looks upset.

                         DANA
            When are you going to get away from
            Rico?

                         BETH (CONT.)
            I don't know, honey....
                   (beat)
            Look, maybe there's no rescue for
            me, but, sweetheart, you've found a
            wonderful guy.  You deserve to be
            happy.  Bobby's confused, but he
            truly loves you.  Just cut him a
            break.  He's male.  They do stupid
            things all the time.

                                                           76.

                         DANA
                   (close to tears)
            You don't know what this is doing
            to me inside.

Beth reaches out and touches her younger sister's cheek
affectionately.

                         BETH
            You're my baby sister.  The last
            thing I want to do is hurt you.
            We've never had anything come
            between us.  I don't want this to
            be it. You have my word, I'm not
            going to be the third wheel.

Beth walks away before tears threaten to overwhelm her.

INT. BOBBY'S BEDROOM - DAY

Bobby is lying on his bed, rolling a baseball in his hands
and staring aimlessly at the ceiling.  He's still bandaged up.

There is a knock on the door.

                         BOBBY
            Come in.

Beth enters.  Bobby's surprised.  He sits up on his bed with
some difficulty.

                         BETH
            I wanted to save you the trip over
            to my place, because I knew you
            would come.  You're that crazy.

                         BOBBY
            I'm not the only one who's crazy.
            You shouldn't risked coming over
            here.  What if Rico finds out?

                         BETH
            I wouldn't have to worry about him
            if you'd been able to positively ID
            him for the police.

                         BOBBY
            I never saw his face.  I couldn't
            lie.  Believe me I'd love it if he
            was rotting in a jail right now.

                                                           77.

                         BETH
            We both know he and Santo did it.
            You couldn't bring yourself to lie
            because you have too much integrity.
            You usually try to do the right
            thing.

                         BOBBY
            You didn't come here to butter me
            up.  Besides, I don't thing I've
            really shown a lot dignity lately.
            What's on your mind?

Beth sits down on the far edge of Bobby's bed.

                         BETH
            I think we've both done things we
            shouldn't have.  We've got to stop.
            We've gone too far.

                         BOBBY
            You're trying to tell me that our
            relationship is over.

                         BETH
            What relationship?  What do we have
            together, Bobby?  We've just been
            lurking around.  I'm a married
            woman and you're going out with my
            sister.  This is all wrong.

                         BOBBY
            We have nothing?  You're the one
            who told me how you feel about me
            in the park.

Beat.

                         BETH
            If I had known how much Dana cared
            about you and how you felt about
            her, I would have never told you.
            I was stupid.  All I did was only
            make my pain greater.  I should
            have known better.

                         BOBBY
            You don't want to have anything to
            do with me anymore?

                         BETH
            I never said that.  We'll always be
            friends.

                                                           78.

                         BOBBY
            I don't want to be your fucking
            friend!

                         BETH
            Bobby, listen to me, we have no
            future together.  What's the use of
            being with you an hour or two?  I
            want you around all the time.  In
            my bed at night.  I want to wake up
            in the morning and find you next to
            me.  I want to share my entire life
            with you and have your children.
                   (beat)
            But these are all pipe dreams.  So
            what does a moment of pleasure with
            you give me?  It only reminds me of
            the things I can't have - and,
            honey, I can't handle that pain.

                         BOBBY
            Do you think being away from me
            will make you any happier?

                         BETH
            I've forgotten what happiness is.
            All I know is that seeing you with
            someone else is just too painful
            for me.

                         BOBBY
            Do you think it's any easier for me
            to see you with that bastard?

                         BETH
            No.  That's why we need to be as
            far away from each other as possible.

Bobby looks close to tears.

                         BETH (CONT.)
            You've found a great girl who loves
            you.  Dana's without complications
            and excess baggage.  It's a much
            easier road.  She'd make you happy,
            I know it.  With me there are too
            many hurdles.  You're better off
            without me.

                         BOBBY
            Is it so easy for you to give  me
            up?  To stop loving me?

                                                           79.

                         BETH
            Part of me loves you to death, but
            part of me wants to hate you,
            because it would be easier to deal
            with the pain that way.

Bobby looks hurt.

                         BETH (CONT.)
            I never said I could stop caring
            about you.  I just want what's best
            for you, Bobby.  You won't find
            that with me.  Marry Dana.

                         BOBBY
            Do you think that if I did, that I
            won't think about you still?  That
            I'll stop caring about you?  It's
            never gonna happen.

                         BETH
            What'll that accomplish?  You'll
            just prolong your hurt.

                         BOBBY
            I don't care.

Bobby reaches our for Beth, but she stands up and moves away.
Bobby clutches at his bandages around his chest.

                         BETH
            Stop it.  Don't hurt yourself on my
            account.  Listen to me, you'll
            forget me.  Dana'll become your
            whole world.  I'll just fade away.
            A few years from now, I'll only be
            footnote in your life.

                         BOBBY
            I can't stand to lose you!

                         BETH
                   (holding back tears)
            You - you have to forget me.

                         BOBBY
                   (in anguish)
            No!

                         BETH
            You have to!

                         BOBBY
            This is so hard.  Honey, I-

                                                           80.

                         BETH
            We're not meant to be together.
            Goodbye, Bobby.

Beth runs out of the room in tears.  Bobby cries out in
anguish and hurls the baseball.  It strikes the dresser
mirror, shattering it.

Beat.

Mrs. Morelli rushes into Bobby's room.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            What was that?
                   (notices the shattered
                   mirror)
            What happened?

                         BOBBY
            Nothing.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Beth just ran out in tears.

                         BOBBY
            Don't worry about it, ma.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Do you want to talk about it?

                         BOBBY
            Not particularly.

Mrs. Morelli sits down on Bobby's bed and takes his hand.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Let me tell you a story.  Just
            listen quietly.
                   (beat)
            When your father -
                   (crosses herself)
            god rest his soul - was young.
            Even younger than you are now, he
            was so handsome.  You're his
            spitting image.  He caught all the
            girls' eyes.  I was smitten with
            him all through senior high.
                   (beat)
            But I wasn't the only one.  There
            was another girl.  She was a close
            friend of mine.
                         (MORE)

                                                           81.

                         MRS. MORELLI (CONT'D)
            Well, your dad had eyes for both of
            us - and he saw us both on the sly,
            thinking one didn't know about the
            other.  He wasn't trying to be a
            Casanova - I think he honestly
            cared for both of us.
                   (looks directly at Bobby)
            But you know, sweetheart, I wanted
            to know that I was the only one he
            would see.  No woman wants to share
            her man.  After we both graduated,
            I confronted your father and told
            him that he'd have to make a choice.
            He had to commit to me or the other
            girl.  Period.
                   (beat)
            He made a choice and lived with it.
            I was the lucky one and he stayed
            faithful to me till the day he
            passed away.

                         BOBBY
            What does it have to do with me?

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Sweetheart, I'm not blind.  I've
            seen how you've looked at Beth and
            Dana since you were a little boy.
            You've loved both of them -

                         BOBBY
            Ma -

Mrs. Morelli holds up her hands.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Let me finish.
                   (beat)
            You're a grown man now.  You have
            to face reality.  You have to make
            a choice and live with that choice.
            It's not possible to straddle two
            canoes at once.

Bobby thinks hard and comes to a decision.

                         BOBBY
            Ma, do you still have the engagement
            ring dad gave you?

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Right here.

                                                           82.

Mrs. Morelli takes out the chain she's wearing around her
neck.  The locket is a DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT ring.  It's about
a carat.  Brilliant.

                         BOBBY
            You always used to tell me that it
            was mine to give when the right
            time came around.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Are you sure?

                         BOBBY
            Yeah.

Mrs. Morelli takes the ring off and presses it into Bobby's
hand.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            You've made your choice?

Bobby nods "yes".

EXT. DANA'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

Dana's comes home carrying a bag of groceries.  Bobby's
sitting on the porch outside obviously waiting for her.  She
lets him inside without a word.

INT. DANA'S APARTMENT - LIVING ROOM - LATER

It's a small one bedroom apartment with an eat-in kitchen.
Bobby takes a seat on the couch as Dana takes her coat off
starts to put the bag of groceries away.  Neither have said
a word to each other so far.  The silence is deafening.

Dana comes over to the couch.

                         DANA
            Do you want something to drink?

                         BOBBY
            I'm all right.

Beat.

                         DANA
            How are you feeling?

                         BOBBY
            Better.  Will you sit down?

Bobby pats the seat next to him.  Dana takes a seat on the
La-Z-boy recliner instead.

                                                           83.

                         BOBBY
            Um, I don't know how to begin or
            what to say that will make you less
            angry at me -

                         DANA
            What makes you think it's all anger?

                         BOBBY
            I know I hurt you too.

                         DANA
            Yeah, Bobby, I'm hurt and angry.  I
            don't know what's going on with us
            anymore...  Where we stand or who
            you're really interested in.  The
            last thing I expected was for my
            older sister to enter the equation.

                         BOBBY
            Beth's not part of this equation.

                         DANA
            Really?  My boyfriend gets beat up
            by her husband because he's been
            seeing her behind everybody's back,
            and she's not part of this equation?
            I've seen your reaction when Beth
            walks into a room.  I've seen it
            since we were kids.  I only wished
            I had the same affect on you.

                         BOBBY
            Don't go there.  Don't question my
            love for you.  When I look at you...
            hear your voice... when I touch
            you, you can't possibly understand
            what you do to me.

                         DANA
            But I'm not the only one who
            affects you this way, is it?

                         BOBBY
            God knows I haven't been perfect.
            I've been such a stupid asshole.
                   (beat)
            We have to get past this somehow.
            We just have to.  You're a wonderful
            woman.  I've just been too thick to
            realize this good thing we have
            together.  I don't want to hurt you
            anymore .  I don't want to lose you.

                                                           84.

Bobby reaches into his jacket and bring out his mom's
engagement ring.  He gets down on his knees with some
difficulty and holds it out to Dana.

                         BOBBY (CONT.)
            My dad gave this to my mom.  I was
            to have it when I finally made my
            choice.
                   (beat)
            Danny, will you marry me?

Dana sucks in her breath and releases it slowly.  Her eyes
dart from the ring back to Bobby's face.

                         DANA
            Are you in love with Beth?

                         BOBBY
            Danny, stop it!

                         DANA
            I want to be able to know that I'm
            the only woman you'll ever
            completely love and that you won't
            be pining away for my sister all
            your life!

                         BOBBY
            Don't you understand?  I love you!

                         DANA
            I want you to tell me that you
            don't have an ounce of feelings for
            her inside, that you'll never see
            her again.  Give me that assurance
            first.

There is agony on Bobby's face.  He visibly struggles with
himself but can't bring himself to say anything.

                         DANA (CONT.)
            You can't promise me, can you?
            You're still in love with her.
                   (rises with tears
                   beading her eyes)
            Please go.

Bobby rises, tries to take Dana into his arms.

                         BOBBY
            I can't imagine my life without you.

Dana struggles out of his arms.

                                                           85.

                         DANA
            Go!

                         BOBBY
                   (close to tears)
            Don't you love me?

                         DANA
            I love you and only you.  But you
            can't say the same, can you?

Dana goes to the door and jerks it open.

                         DANA
            Please don't hurt me anymore.  I
            don't think I deserve it.  Please
            go, Bobby.

Bobby looks longingly at Dana and leaves.

INT. SUBWAY TRAIN - NIGHT

Bobby is sitting in a corner with his face buried in his
hands.  He is miserable.  A passenger looks at him with pity
and goes into the next car.

INT. DANA'S APARTMENT - BEDROOM - NIGHT

The phone is RINGING, but Dana doesn't answer it.  She is on
her bed hugging a teddy bear.  Her eyes are red.  She's been
crying.

The answering machine CLICKS on.

                         BOBBY (V.O.)
            I know you're there.  Pick up the
            phone.  Danny, come on, please!
            Just -

Dana reaches over and disconnects the phone.

EXT. ACROSS THE STREET FROM DANA'S FLOWER SHOP - DAY

Bobby watches Dana arrive at her flower shop.  He's been
waiting for her.  Crosses the street and approaches her.

EXT. DANA'S FLOWER SHOP - LATER

Dana is fumbling with her keys.  Doesn't notice Bobby coming.

                         BOBBY (O.S.)
            Danny.

Startled, Dana turns.

                                                           86.

                         DANA
                   (angry)
            Leave me alone.

                         BOBBY
            You can't just ignore me -

                         DANA
            I can do whatever I want.  Get this
            through your thick head - I don't
            want to see you.

                         BOBBY
            You can't mean that -

                         DANA
            Leave me alone, Bobby!

Dana gets the lock open and rushes into the flower shop,
locking the door behind her.

Bobby shakes the door in frustration.

                         BOBBY
            Danny, let me in!  Come on!

                         DANA
            Go away!

Dana disappears into the back.  Bobby pounds his fist
against the glass door, rattling it.

                         BOBBY
            Danny, please!

Dana still doesn't come back.  Frustrated, Bobby leaves.

INT. NICK'S ALE HOUSE - NIGHT

Bobby and Mike are sitting at the bar.  Bobby has been
drinking heavily.  His speech is slurred.

                         BOBBY
            Nick, another one.

                         NICK
            Take it easy, Bobby.  You have to
            sober up -

                         BOBBY
            Keep 'em coming!
                   (prods Mike on the
                   chest with his finger)
            I've got a designated driver.

                                                           87.

Nick shakes his head but gives Bobby another shot of whiskey.

                         MIKEY
            Look, drowning your sorrows with
            booze won't solve your fucking
            problems.

                         BOBBY
            Shut up.

                         MIKEY
            You broke up over a month ago.
            Another month, they'll be distant
            memories.

                         BOBBY
            I lost both of them.  I'm an asshole.

                         MIKEY
            I'm not gonna argue with you there.

There is an UPROAR from the pool table area.  In the pool
room Santo throw down his cue on table in frustration.  He's
lost another game of nine ball to Rico.

                         NICK
                   (to Santo)
            You damage that table, you buy it!

Santo dismisses Nick's threat with a wave of his hand.  Rico
slaps him on the back and calls it a day.  On the way out,
he and Santo approach Bobby and Mike at the bar.

                         SANTO
            Hey, Bobby black and blue.

Bobby's seething, but he and Mikey don't turn around.

Rico SNACKS his open palm with his fist.

                         RICO
            Looks like you learned your lesson
            good and been staying away from my
            wife.

Bobby doesn't move or say anything.

                         RICO (CONT.)
            You know what?  While you're
            playing with yourself tonight, I'm
            going home to fuck her brains out.

Bobby loses his cool.  He tries to go for Rico, but Mikey
holds him back.

                                                           88.

Rico taunts Bobby.

                         RICO
            You wanna fight, asshole!  Come on!
            I'll beat the shit out of you again.

Nick intercedes.

                         NICK
                   (to Rico and Santo)
            Get the fuck outta here, both of you!

                         SANTO
            Take it easy, Nick.

Nick pulls out a BAT from behind the bar.

                         NICK
            Get out!

Rico and Rico back off.

                         RICO
            Bobby, I'm gonna go home and and
            take care of Beth tonight.  She's
            gonna wake up all black and blue.

Rico and Santo start to laugh and leave the bar.

At the bar, Bobby covers his face in misery.

EXT. MORELLI BROWNSTONE - MORNING

Bobby comes out onto the stoop and picks up the LOCAL
MORNING PAPER from the paper.  There is a mugshot of Beth on
the front page.  The caption reads: WIFE SHOOTS HUSBAND TO
DEATH IN SOUTH PHILLY.

EXT. HOSPITAL - DAY

It's a cold overcast day.  An ambulance pulls up to the
hospital, SIRENS BLARING.  Bobby walks in through the front
door.

INT. HOSPITAL CORRIDOR - LATER

Bobby gets off the elevator carrying a bunch of WHITE
DAISIES.  He spots a policeman standing guard outside a door.
As he approaches, Dana's mom comes out of the room.  She
sees Bobby and they hug.  He wants to go in.  The policeman
looks at Mrs. DeStafano and she nods "yes".  Bobby walks in.

                                                           89.

INT. DANA'S HOSPITAL ROOM - LATER

Beth is propped up on the bed.  She's beat up.  Her face has
a nasty gash on her cheek and her LEFT EYE is nearly swollen
shut.  Her lips are busted and there is a bandage on her
left arm.

Despite her condition, she manages a smile when she sees
Bobby walk in.

                         BETH
                   (weakly)
            You're not supposed to be here.
            You're breaking the rules.

Bobby rushes to her bedside.

                         BOBBY
            Oh, god, look at you.  Are you all
            right?

                         BETH
            I'm glad you're here.

Beth notices the flowers.  Bobby holds them out to her.  She
takes s a whiff.

                         BETH
            They're lovely.  Thank you.

Bobby puts the daisies in a vase on a table that already has
several flower arrangements on it.  He comes back and takes
Beth's good hand into his own.

                         BOBBY
            Tell me you're going to be okay.

                         BETH
            Hey, I don't even belong here.
            It's just a nick.
                   (tries to move her
                   bandaged arm, squints
                   in pain)
            The bullet only grazed my arm.

                         BOBBY
            The papers said Rico tried to shoot
            you.
                   (beat)
            Thank god you managed to get the
            gun and kill -

Bobby cuts himself off.

                                                           90.

                         BETH
            It's okay to say it.  I killed my
            husband.

                         BOBBY
            I - I won't say that I'm
            disappointed.  He didn't know how
            lucky he was to have you.  He
            treated you horribly.

                         BETH
            He wasn't an easy person to live
            with.  I hated him so much
            sometimes, Bobby, but I never
            intended to kill -

                         BOBBY
            But he tried to kill you!

                         BETH
            I know, I know.  That night, he was
            jacked up.  I think he was on drugs.
            We started arguing and he -
                   (sighs heavily)
            Well, it's over.

                         BOBBY
            It might help to talk about it.

                         BETH
            No, I don't want relive the past.
            It's too painful.  I just wish
            Rachel didn't have to go through
            this.  She was in the next room
            when it happened.  She's really
            shaken up right now.

                         BOBBY
            Where is she?

                         BETH
            At my mom's house.  She's really
            shaken up right now.  This is not
            going to be easy on her...
                   (beat)
            Sometimes, life just socks it to
            you.  They still haven't booked me
            for shooting Rico yet.  I don't
            want to got to prison, Bobby.  I -
            I just hope I can watch my daughter
            grow up.

                                                           91.

                         BOBBY
            It was self-defense.  They can't
            press charges.

                         BETH
            I passed out last night.  They
            questioned me this morning, but
            they still haven't told me what's
            going to happen.  It's up to the
            prosecutor.
                   (smiles weakly)
            Wish me luck.

                         BOBBY
            Don't torture yourself.  It's going
            to be okay, honey.

                         BETH
            Please don't call me honey.  It's
            too painful for me to hear it from
            your lips.

                         BOBBY
            You're a free woman now.

                         BETH
            But you're not.  You belong to my
            sister.  I won't take you away from
            her.

                         BOBBY
            Danny won't see me.  She hates me.

                         BETH
            Give her time.  Dana's always
            stubborn at first but then she
            melts real quickly.  She still
            loves you.

Beat.

                         BOBBY
            She wanted me to promise her to
            never see you again.

                         BETH
            Then you really shouldn't be here.

                         BOBBY
            I couldn't promise her, Beth.  I
            couldn't it.

                                                           92.

                         BETH
            Yes, you can.  You can do a lot of
            things if you put your mind to it.
            I know you'll do the smart thing
            and leave before she comes.  Go,
            Bobby.  Thanks for coming.

                         BOBBY
            Beth, it's so hard -

                         BETH
            Don't make me cry.  I can't take
            anymore pain.  Make me a happy
            woman.  Please say goodbye.

Bobby gently kisses Beth on the forehead and heads for the
door.  As he is about to open it, Dana walks in.  They both
freeze.  They don't say a word to each other.  Bobby walks
out.

INT. HOSPITAL CORRIDOR - LATER

Dana comes out of Beth's room to find Bobby waiting for her.

                         BOBBY
            Hi.

Dana takes a long time to answer.

                         DANA
            Hello.

                         BOBBY
            Beth's pretty beat up...

                         DANA
            She's been through a lot.

                         BOBBY
            You're probably pissed off that I
            visited her...

                         DANA
            No, it's okay.
                   (beat)
            I did a lot of thinking.  It was...
            unfair of me to demand that of you.

                         BOBBY
            Danny, I miss you so much.

                         DANA
                   (emotional)
            You hurt me so bad.

                                                           93.

                         BOBBY
            I know, I know.  Just give me a
            chance, please.  Small steps,
            that's all I ask.  All right?

Dana nods "yes" slowly.

EXT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY

We can see Bobby and Dana through the window, talking.

INT. COFFEE SHOP - LATER

Bobby and Dana are sipping cups of java.

                         DANA
            I heard you were working at Gino's
            now.  Internet guru to pizza boy,
            that's a big step down.  Mikey's
            company must have sold you.

                         BOBBY
            He likes to thinks so.  Gino's
            across the street from your flower
            shop.  If I wasn't able to approach
            you, at least I was able to watch
            you come and go for the last month.

                         DANA
            I guess I should be flattered.
                   (beat)
            Is that what you're going to do for
            a living now?  Pizza boy voyeur?

They share a small laugh.

                         BOBBY
            It's good to see you smile.

                         DANA
            It's been a while.

Beat.

                         BOBBY
            We have to sort things out between
            us, Danny...

Beat.

                         DANA
            I don't know where were at anymore.
            I tried to convince myself that
            things were over between us...

                                                           94.

                         BOBBY
            It's not so easy to let go, is it?

Dana doesn't say anything, but it's obviously true for her
as well.

                         BOBBY (CONT.)
             I'm not prepared to lose you, Danny.

                         DANA
            Every woman wants to know that the
            man who loves her is totally hers.
            That's the one thing she can never
            share.

Bobby takes Dana's hand.  She doesn't pull away.

                         BOBBY
            I'm all yours if you'll have me.  I
            love you totally and completely.
            Tell me it's all right between us.

Dana struggles with her emotions.

                         DANA
            Just give me a little more time.

EXT. CRIMINAL JUSTICE CENTER - DAY

Bobby is waiting for Beth when she finally comes out holding
Rachel's hand.  Her mother, and LAWYER are with her.

Beth sees Bobby and smiles.

                         BOBBY
            Tell me it's good news.

                         BETH
            Self-defense.  The prosecutor won't
            press any charges.

Bobby hesitates, but then gives Beth a hug.

EXT. DANA'S FLOWER SHOP - NIGHT

Dana is closing up shop when Bobby comes around.  She
actually looks happy to see him.  He asks her something, she
nods "yes".

Bobby helps her close the shop and they walk away together.

                                                           95.

INT. CHINESE RESTAURANT - NIGHT

Bobby's trying to pick up some noodles with his chopsticks,
but they fall into his Coke.  He and Dana start to laugh.

INT. CHINESE RESTAURANT - LATER

Bobby reaches across the table and puts his hand over Dana's.
She doesn't pull away.

EXT. CHINESE RESTAURANT - LATER

Bobby and Dana walk out holding hands, laughing and smiling.
They look like a couple in love.

EXT. DANA'S FLOWER SHOP - DAY

Dana comes out of the shop and starts to walk across the
street towards Gino's Pizza Shop.

INT. GINO'S PIZZA SHOP - DAY

Bobby sees Dana enter.  He stops his work and comes around
the counter to greet her.

                         BOBBY
            Hey, what's up?

                         MIKEY
                   (waving to Dana)
            Yo, Danny!

                         DANA
            Hey, Mikey!
                   (to Bobby)
            I thought I'd stop by and pick up
            some lunch.  Can you get Gino to
            whip up a calzone for me?

                         BOBBY
            You could have called in your order.

                         DANA
            Yeah, but then I wouldn't have seen
            you.

Bobby and Dana share a smile.

                         BOBBY
                   (shouting back to Gino)
            Gino, calzone for the beautiful
            lady.  Don't skimp on the cheese!

Gino salutes from the grill.

                                                           96.

INT. GINO'S PIZZA SHOP - LATER

The calzone is ready.  Bobby gives Dana the order.

                         BOBBY
            Nice and hot.

                         DANA
            Thanks.

Dana tries to take out money.

                         BOBBY
            Fuhgeddaboutit

Dana embraces Bobby, kissing him on the lips and leaves.

Mikey and Gino are grinning like Cheshire cats behind the
counter.

INT.  GINO'S PIZZA SHOP - LATER

Bobby goes behind the counter and starts to knead dough.
Mikey is twirling a pie expertly in the air.

                         MIKEY
            Back on track with Dana again?

                         BOBBY
            We're making progress.

                         MIKEY
            Don't fuck it up again.  Keep your
            little pecker pointed in one
            direction, know what I mean?

                         BOBBY
            I don't know what the hell you're
            talking about.

                         MIKEY
            Bullshit.  Just listen to Mikey's
            advice and things'll work out peachy.

                         BOBBY
            Shut up.

Mikey laughs.  Bobby joins him.

EXT. MORELLI BROWNSTONE - NIGHT

Bobby is bounding up the steps of the house.

                                                           97.

INT. MORELLI BROWNSTONE - KITCHEN - LATER

Bobby walks into the kitchen and sets his jacket down.  His
mother is stirring sauce at the oven.  He comes to
investigate.  Kisses her on the cheek.

                         BOBBY
            Hey, ma, how about a taste?

Mrs. Morelli gives him taste from a wooden spoon.

                         BOBBY (CONT.)
            Man, this is good.  You should sell
            this stuff.  People would be lining
            up around the block to buy it.

Mrs. Morelli notices her son's good mood.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            I haven't seen you in such a good
            mood in while.

                         BOBBY
            You can't stay miserable forever.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Things are going better with you
            and Dana then?

                         BOBBY
            It's getting better.

Beat.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            She's good girl.  Stick with the
            choices you've made, sweetheart.

                         BOBBY
            I intend to.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Good.

Bobby's heads out of the kitchen.

                         MRS. MORELLI (O.S.)
            Bobby.

Bobby turns.

                         BOBBY
            Yeah, ma?

                                                           98.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Beth called earlier.  She asked you
            to call her back.

                         BOBBY
            Thanks.

                         MRS. MORELLI
            Don't straddle canoes, all right?

Bobby nods "yes" and leaves the kitchen.

INT. BOBBY'S BEDROOM - LATER

Bobby's on the phone with Beth.

                         BOBBY
            Mom said you wanted me to call you?

                         BETH (V.O.)
            Yeah.

                         BOBBY
            Everything okay?

                         BETH (V.O.)
            Can you come over tonight?

                         BOBBY
            What's it about?

                         BETH
            I'll tell you when you get here.
            Can you come?

Bobby appears to struggle with himself.

                         BOBBY
            Sure.

EXT. BETH'S HOUSE - NIGHT

Bobby walks up the steps and rings the door bell.  Beth
answers and lets him in.

INT. BETH'S HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - LATER

Bobby walks into the living room and notices that there are
several STACKED BOXES and TWO SUITCASES.

Rachel is watching TV.  She lights up when she sees Bobby.
He gives her a hug and follows Beth into

THE KITCHEN

                                                           99.

There are more boxes in the kitchen.  Most of the dishes
have been packed.  Beth is packing a box.

                         BOBBY
            Why are are you packing?

Beat.

                         BETH
            I'm leaving, Bobby.

                         BOBBY
            What?

                         BETH
            I'm leaving Philly with Rachel.

                         BOBBY
            You can't be serious?

                         BETH
            We're leaving tomorrow morning.

                         BOBBY
            Where are you going?

                         BETH
            California.

                         BOBBY
            What are you going there?

                         BETH
            I haven't really advertised it, but
            I've been sneaking off to singing
            gigs on South Street for the past
            couple of months.  Rico thought I
            was going off to see you.  Anyway,
            a talent scout saw me and offered
            me a contract.  He's based out West.

Bobby is surprised and upset.

                         BOBBY
            This is such a big move...

                         BETH
            Rachel and I need a fresh start.
            You can understand that, can't you?
            There are just too many painful
            memories for me here.

                                                          100.

                         BOBBY
            I'm here.  You're trying to get
            away from me.

                         BETH
            I've always wanted to sing, you
            know that.  There's a lot of dreams
            that I've given up.  I - I had to
            give you up.  Don't ask me to give
            this dream up too.

                         BOBBY
                   (voice breaking)
            You know, I'll always love -

She puts a finger to his lips.

                         BETH
            I know.  And I will too.  But you
            have someone else to love now.

EXT. BETH'S HOUSE - LATER

It's raining outside.  Bobby and Beth are under the shelter
of the porch.  They are staring at each other.  Holding back
tears.  Beat.  They embrace fiercely.

Dana arrives at that moment and see them.  Bobby sees her
and let's Beth go.  Dana turns and flees.

Bobby stands frozen.

                         BETH
            Go after her.

Bobby starts to run after Dana.

EXT. STREET - NIGHT

The rain beating down harder.  The wind is HOWLING.  Bobby's
running after Dana.

                         BOBBY
            Danny, stop!

Dana keeps on running without looking back.  Her umbrella
flies from her hand but she keeps on running.  She reaches
the subway entrance, bounds down the steps and disappears.

INT. SUBWAY STATION - LATER

Bobby rushes through the turnstile.  A subway train pulls to
a stop at the platform where Dana is standing alone.

                                                          101.

                         BOBBY
                   (shouting)
            Danny, wait!

Dana looks back once and steps into the train.  The doors
close shut an instant before Bobby is able to grab them.

Bobby sees Dana through the glass of the door.  She's
soaking wet.  Crying.

The train pulls away, leaving Bobby alone and miserable.

EXT. DANA'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

Bobby presses the buzzer, but Dana doesn't open the door.
He pounds the door.

                         BOBBY
            Danny, come on!  Let me in!

He keeps ringing the buzzer, but Dana still won't answer.

He steps back and looks up at the second floor window.  Dana
is silhouetted against the light.

                         BOBBY
                   (shouting)
            Danny, I can explain!  Let me in!

Dana pulls the curtains shut and walks away from the window.

EXT. BEHIND DANA'S APARTMENT - LATER

Bobby leaps up and grabs the fire escape ladder and pulls it
down.  He climbs it to the

SECOND FLOOR FIRE ESCAPE

He tries to open the window.  It's locked.  He looks inside,
past the kitchen into the living room where Dana is sitting
on the couch, still soaking wet and crying.  He knocks on
the window, and gets her attention.

                         BOBBY
                   (shouting)
            Danny, you've got it all wrong.

                         DANA
                   (shouting)
            Go away!

                         BOBBY
                   (shouting)
            You have to hear me out!

                                                          102.

Bobby sees Dana go into her bedroom, closing the door shut
behind her.

Bobby slumps down into a sitting position as the rain
continues to fall.

INT. DANA'S APARTMENT - LIVING ROOM - MORNING

Dana steps out of her bedroom wearing her pajamas and heads
into the bathroom.

INT. DANA'S APARTMENT - LIVING ROOM - LATER

Dana comes out of the bathroom and heads to the back window
of the kitchen.  She opens the window and is startled to see
Bobby curled up asleep on the fire escape.

Beat.

Bobby eyes flutter open.

                         DANA
            You're crazy.

                         BOBBY
            Honey, let me explain, please.

INT. DANA'S APARTMENT - LIVING ROOM - LATER

Bobby is seated on the couch with Dana.

                         BOBBY
            Will you hear me out now?

                         DANA
            There's nothing to explain.  You're
            obsessed with Beth.  You can't stay
            away from her, can you?

                         BOBBY
            You've got it all wrong.

                         DANA
            About what?  I stop by to see her
            and you guys are -

Dana can't bear to say the rest.

The truth suddenly dawns on Bobby.

                         BOBBY
            You don't know, do you?

                                                          103.

                         DANA
            Know what?

                         BOBBY
            Beth's leaving for California.  It
            was just a hug goodbye.  That's all
            it was.  Don't make this more than
            it really was.

                         DANA
            I didn't think she would go through
            with it.

                         BOBBY
            She's leaving today.
                   (takes Danny's hands)
            Ma's always telling me I can't
            straddle two canoes.  She told me I
            had to make a choice.  The choice I
            made was to be with you.  Honey, I
            love you.  I can't picture my life
            without you.  You're all I want.

                         DANA
            I want to believe you.  God knows I
            do.

                         BOBBY
            You can.  I swear to god.

Bobby takes out his MOM'S ENGAGEMENT RING from his pocket.
He gets down on his knees and holds it out to Dana.

                         BOBBY
            I love you completely and totally.
            Will you marry me, Danny?

Dana has tears in her eyes.  She crumbles and nods "yes".
Bobby places the ring on her finger and kisses her fiercely.

EXT. BETH'S HOUSE - DAY

The U-Haul has been loaded.  Beth helps Rachel up into her
seat and belts her in.  She takes one last look at her
house, gets in the truck and drives off to California to
follow her dreams.

                                            FADE OUT