The Last Summer

Copyright © 2001 by Warren and Maleknaz Barghi Baskin. All rights reserved, including the right of reproduction in whole or in part in any form.

FADE IN

1939: SOMEWHERE ON THE  NORTH ITALIAN COAST. 

EXT. TRAIN STATION. DAY

STEAMING ENGINE OF A TRAIN. DIFFUSED SUNLIGHT POURS IN THROUGH THE STATION’S VAST WINDOWS.
Few Passengers step out of the train.  We  see a young woman tipping a porter as she collects her luggage.  Her face hidden under her big hat.

ELIZABETH 
(V.O.)
My first trip to Italy, was my first trip on my own.
(pause)
I remember it  clearly , It was the last summer before Germany invaded Poland, everyone seemed preoccupied with the possibilities of war,
 every one but  me....

C.U. on  Elizabeth:  She looks up and a smile appears on her face.

EXT.  THE OTHER SIDE OF THE PLATFORM

A man dressed in Indian attire, stares at a photo in his hand.
 
C.U. on the photo.  A black and white portrait of Elizabeth.

EXT.PLATFORM

The man quietly approaches Elizabeth from behind.

THE MAN
Miss Parker.

Suddenly startled, Elizabeth drops her purse.  Her personal items spreads around the platform. Elizabeth bends down to pick her things.

The man immediately helps her. 

ELIZABETH
(a bit embarrassed) 
It’s all right....really,  I got it.

He picks up the last item, a book. As they stand up. He glances at the cover.

C.U. On the book:  Reflections of the stars. 

THE MAN
(handing her the book)
Welcome to Italy, Miss Parker. My apologies for startling you.

ELIZABETH
(wrinkles her eyebrows)
I’m sorry, do I know you?

THE MAN
Artti Patel, miss. I work for lady Katherine.

ELIZABETH
 ( change of attitude) 
Oh...of course....
(looking around)
so darling of you to come..where is Katherine?

He picks up her luggage .

ARTTI
She is waiting for us in the villa.

ELIZABETH
Oh All right!
(Curiously) 
how did you recognize me, anyway?

ARTTI
From your photograph.

ELIZABETH
(amused)
What photograph?

ARTTI
(shows her the picture)
Your mother, Mrs. Parker...

Elizabeth snatches the picture off his hand.

ELIZABETH
Let me see that.
(enraged)
Oh my god, she did not,
 (in total  disbelief) 
Of all my glamour shots, she had to pick THIS...this horrible...disgusting...

Artti gives her a sympathetic yet inquisitive  look.
When  Elizabeth attempt  to tear apart the thick paper fails,  she hands it back to Artti.

ELIZABETH
( all dramatic)
I would be  for ever thankful if you burn this to ashes!

Elizabeth walks off.  Artti raises an eyebrow.
.
EXT. TRAIN STATION PARKING

Artti’s car screeches forward and pulls into the narrow road.

INT.CAR

ELIZABETH
(fumbling in her Purse)
Do we have a long ride to the villa?

ARTTI
(looks back) 
About 20 minutes.

Elizabeth takes a hand mirror and a lipstick.

ELIZABETH
Tell me about Lady Katherine?

ARTTI
What would you like to know? 

ELIZABETH
Anything that I 'm not suppose to know.

ARTTI
Hmmm!

Elizabeth
Well all right, just tell me what is she like..what are her hobbies?

ARTTI
Hobbies...yes.
(deep thought)
She loves to read, enjoys long walks, savors dinner conversations...

ELIZABETH
(Applying her lipstick)
Perhaps something a little more alluring?

A short pause.

ARTTI
She dotes upon her art galleries, one in Paris and one in Brussels...
She has an exquisite collection of paintings and sculptures...

Elizabeth looks outside the window.

ELIZABETH
(mocking)
 How lovely!

ARTTI
(glancing back from his mirror)
she is also a big fan of the silver screen...

ELIZABETH
(gleams back wickedly)
 Movies?

ARTTI
She must have seen Wuthering Heights, at least nine times.

EXT. BEACH ROAD 

We see the car pass a white cottage on the beach then roars uphill.  

INT.CAR

ARTTI 
(continues)
And if I’m not wrong, she must have cried every single time. 

ELIZABETH 
(Laughing)
 Did she...really! Marvelous.

EXT. VAN HUFF’S VILLA
 
The car enters the estate through the gate, proceeds along the curving driveway and finally comes to a stop before the entrance. Artti steps out and opens the back door. At the same time, an older yet very attractive woman, steps out of the front door. She stands in the side of the car.

C.U. ON THE CAR

With a sudden breath, Elizabeth jumps out of the car, as if she has just arrived for a Hollywood premiere.

ELIZABETH
(arms wide open)
Katherine, Darling! 

Elizabeth parades towards the woman, blow her a kiss on each cheek. The woman, flabbergasted, stares back.

ELIZABETH
(star like accent)
So good to see you...you look wonderful!
(turning around)
And your place is absolutely delightful!

Artti standing next to Katherine, encourages her to speak up. Finally she breaks her silence.

LADY KATHERINE
It’s very nice to see you too Elizabeth.  
(smiles) 
The Last time  I -

ELIZABETH 
(cuts in)
Do me a favor darling...
Just call me Lizzy. 

LADY KATHERINE
Lizzy? 
(smiles)
Of course..

ELIZABETH
(looking around)
Absolutely divine
.
LADY KATHERINE
(gentle smile)
Well thank you, shall we go in.

They walk in as Elizabeth continues admiring the place.

LADY KATHERINE
(whispers to Artti)
 This should be interesting.

INT. VILLA

ELIZABETH
Charming....
(pointing)
...positively sumptuous. You must introduce me to your  interior decorator.

Elizabeth stands next to a nude statue, touching it from head to toe.

ELIZABETH
(all intense)
Hmm! Let me guess, Italian Marble, 17th century? Am I right, darling?

LADY KATHERINE
(frowns)
Well not quite dear, 18th century France.

Elizabeth shrugs. As she charges toward yet another sculpture. 

LADY KATHERINE
(clears her throat)
How about a nice cold ice tea. You must be quite thirsty after your long trip.

Katherine kindly forces her into the living room area. They sit down and Katherine immediately pours her a glass of ice tea. 

ELIZABETH
(taking the glass)
Thank you,  Katherine! You are so kind for having me here, particularly, knowing that I had no desire to come at all. 
(laughingly) 
I mean really darling, talking about 
being forced, but father promised if I take this trip, he will re-consider.
So you see I had no other choice.

Katherine smiles back with a frown. Then suddenly they become quiet, except for the loud ticking of the old clock.

LADY KATHERINE
(coughs)
 I was reading Vivienne’s letter just this morning and I read that you are quite a-

ELIZABETH
(cuts her off) 
Oh dear god no?
(over acting)
Let me guess, ungrateful, evil child, (yells) 
A bad seed...Welcome to MY LIFE! 

Sudden Silence again. Elizabeth lights a cigarette then tilts her head back and closes her eyes. Inside she felt proud of her performance. 

LADY KATHERINE
(looking taken)
 She wrote in her letter that you won the first prize in the young women’s swimming team.

ELIZABETH
Oh !.. that!...well first in the class but second in the school...
(puffing)
 You see, lies...all lies, very typical of mother!

 Katherine clears her throat again. 

ELIZABETH
(looking guilty)
I’m terribly sorry, how rude of me.

Katherine gestures with appreciation.

ELIZABETH
(smiles)
 Would you like a puff?

LADY KATHERINE
(Disapproving)
No, thank you.

ELIZABETH
Forgive me for boring you already...it’s all mother’s fault..just a bare  mention of her name, is enough to get me mad..and I mean MAD!

Katherine places her glass on the table.

LADY KATHERINE
(changing the subject) 
Well then....Let’s get you to your room.
(calls)
Artti?

INT. GUEST BEDROOM. 

Artti places her luggage on the floor. The room is beautifully decorated with expensive fabrics, colorful paintings and fresh flowers everywhere.  Elizabeth peeks out of the window, breathing the fresh ocean air.

ARTTI
I hope the room is to your satisfaction miss?

ELIZABETH
(nonchalantly)
Yes, not bad at all.

ARTTI
Dinner will be served at 7.

Artti closes the door as he leaves. Elizabeth admires her own reflection in the mirror. 
As she practices a few stage laughs, she notices a red residue of her 
bright orange lipstick all over her front teeth.

ELIZABETH
(wiping it)
Oh Hell!

INT. DINING ROOM. LATER

C.U. On fingers drumming on the table. 

LADY KATHERINE
(impatiently)
 Did you mention to her that dinner is served at 7 sharp?

ARTTI
Yes, I did. 

LADY KATHERINE
(drumming)
Hmmph!

Artti opens a wine bottle.

ARTTI
Would you like me to call for her?

LADY KATHERINE
No, that won’t be necessary. 
(a pause)
Tell me, how do you like her?

Artti pours her a glass.

 ARTTI
I don’t know her well enough to make such an assessment.

LADY KATHERINE
For God’s sake Artti, I didn't ask you to psycho-analyze her, a first impression will do.

ARTTI
In that case, I like her!

LADY KATHERINE
(sips her wine) 
She is sort of amusing.

ARTTI
I believe the words you may be looking for is brazen, flamboyant and pretentious.

LADY KATHERINE
How eloquently put. 

Elizabeth rushes in the room, dressed in satin evening gown.

ELIZABETH
I’m terribly sorry, darlings,
I couldn’t decide what to wear.
(glances at Katherine) 
OH!...Perhaps I should change...

LADY KATHERINE
No need, you look wonderful, Please... SIT DOWN!

Moments later, they begin eating dinner.

LADY KATHERINE
(to Elizabeth)
So tell me, how is everything in London, how are your sisters?

ELIZABETH
(sips her wine)
Alive and annoying as ever! Betsy is expecting her second child..
(rolling her eyes)
And Madeline is making everyone sick with her wedding demands..
(sips more wine)....

Katherine looks at Artti for help.

ELIZABETH
...I mean it’s not like he is Royalty for god sake
(indicating) Ralph , her finance...
....
Katherine kicks Artti’s leg from under the table, gesturing him to say something.

ARTTI
How do you like your Risotto?

ELIZABETH
(confused for a second)
Delicious.....Thank you.
(sipping more wine)
Any way, What was I saying?

ARTTI
Common topics for dinner conversations?

Katherine thankfully smiles at him.

ELIZABETH
(swirling her pasta)
 OH....well,obviously WAR! 

KATHERINE
I’m sorry!

ELIZABETH
WAR! Plain war......some say it is doubtful and some say it’s conceivable.

Katherine’s frustrated expression becomes concerned.

ELIZABETH
This whole war business is really getting on my nerves...
(turns to Katherine)
...a total bore...don’t You think?

LADY KATHERINE
(looks at Artti)
It’s bad as it is with all the Fascists every where. A war on top of that. 

Artti stares back at her.

ARTTI
Indeed! Escaping one dictatorship is hard enough, two is rather impossible.

Elizabeth looking back and forth between the two.

ELIZABETH
Wait a minute, You are not serious?

ARTTI
(raises his eyebrow)
Human nature can not avoid making the same mistakes.
 
ELIZABETH
(frowns)
What?

ARTTI
We are greedy bloodthirsty species, and our need to feed this disease, overcomes our humanity.

ELIZABETH
(eyes wide open)
 Huh!

ARTTI
And the cycle of destruction will not stop, nor ever end, until there is nothing left to destroy. 

LADY KATHERINE
Please Artti, that’s enough doom for one night.Don't you think?

ELIZABETH
(sipping her wine)
A dooms day theory.....
(turns to Katherine)
How Thrilling! 

EXT. VILLA. LATER THAT NIGHT.

We see Artti on his knees working over a flower bed. Elizabeth walks up to him.

ELIZABETH
I looked everywhere for Katherine but I can’t find her....
(distracted by Artti)
what in heavens are you doing?

ARTTI
(Looks up)
Planting.

ELIZABETH
I can see that, but now?

ARTTI
Night is a good time to plant, it’s better for the roots. 

Elizabeth nods her head.

ELIZABETH
Right the roots...
Any how, have you seen Katherine around?

Artti glances at the attic. 

C.U. On the Attic. The light is on.

ARTTI
(continues his planting)
 No, I have no idea where she may be.

ELIZABETH
Well, I’m off for a walk. Ciao!

Elizabeth Holds her long satin tail and walks a few steps. 

ELIZABETH
(turns back to Artti)
I have never known anyone with such intense views, You are very cynical.

ARTTI
 I’ve been told worse.

ELIZABETH
(smiles)
I’m not afraid of any of it. War, dooms day, death. The way I see it, it’s all in the  play, we might as well embrace it.

Feeling quite smart, Elizabeth blinks at Artti then walks away.

EXT. BEACH TRAIL

After a long walk, she finds herself near the white cottage. Now, she can actually hear the music from inside. Feeling quite social, she gathers her long satin train and walks bravely toward the cottage. With every step, her smile becomes bigger, wondering who may be inside this white cottage, perhaps some one handsome and amazingly sexy. 

ELIZABETH
(closes her eyes)
I wish for Rudolf Valentino. 

Suddenly, she hears loud voices from inside. In one short moment all her confidence disappears and she hides behind the wall.

INT. COTTAGE

A naked man is singing along with the music.

EXT. COTTAGE. 

Elizabeth is astonished by what she sees. After all she has never seen a naked man before.

INT. COTTAGE

THE NAKED MAN is standing in front of a huge canvas. 

EXT. COTTAGE. 

Elizabeth feels intoxicated though she can only see his back. He is tan and masculine, Only if she could see his face. 
	
INT. WHITE COTTAGE

The man tilts his head to one side.  For a second, he stands motionless, then all of a sudden he scratches his buttocks.

EXT. THE COTTAGE

Elizabeth bursts out a giggle but then quickly covers her mouth.

INT.COTTAGE

SUDDENLY the naked man turns around... 

EXT. COTTAGE. BEHIND THE WALL

Elizabeth ducks. She attempts to crawl away but her tight long gown stops her. She falls on her stomach.

EXT. COTTAGE. A MOMENT LATER

The man opens the front door and takes a few steps in the dark. She holds her breath, hoping that
this act would make her invisible.  He makes another step but then suddenly 
hears a noise on the other side.  He yells something in Italian, 
surely not a good word, then he goes inside and slams the door.

C.U. ON ELIZABETH

Elizabeth seeks the opportune moment and flee the scene. Not even the tearing of her expensive satin gown could stop her now. 
 
CUT TO:

EXT. CLIFFS. MINUTES LATER

C.U. On A PAIR OF SHAKING Legs. As we pull away, we see Elizabeth stuck halfway on a cliff above the ocean.

ELIZABETH
(shouts)
 OH HELL! 

Slowly she lifts herself up. Her expression changes to fear.

ELIZABETH
(Speaking out)
This could be my best performance ever! Metro-Golden-Mayer presents:
Lizzy Parker, a beautiful young woman on the run... 

Her grip getting weaker, her whole body starts shaking from the pressure. She looks down in growing horror to see how far she could fall.

EXT. ROCKS BELOW
The rocks shine in the moonlight. The sound of the waves grows louder.

ELIZABETH
Oh Hell!

Suddenly she slips and looses her grip on the rock. Dangling with one hand, She screams.

ELIZABETH
Help!

EXT. CLIFFS

C.U. On A SMALL HAND, appears from nowhere, pulling her up. With much struggle she manages to climb up to safety and falls on her back.

EXT. ON THE TRAIL

A young boy is standing above her.

ELIZABETH
(out of breath)
Thank you so much...That was so close..... .

The boy bursts into laughter and start mocking her.

THE BOY
(German Accent)
 ....Help.....help...help.

ELIZABETH
(frowns)
Excuse me.... 

The boy continues laughing at her.

ELIZABETH
(furious) 
I almost died out there.

THE BOY
But you didn't, JA.

ELIZABETH
I know I didn’t.

THE BOY
You owe me now.

ELIZABETH
I don’t think so.

THE BOY
Yes, you do. I’ve saved your life.

ELIZABETH
(dusting her gown)
Brilliant!

THE BOY
I’ve saved you twice.

ELIZABETH
What’s next, you gave me birth.

The boy sticks his tongue at her.

THE BOY
English girls aren't thankful. 

ELIZABETH
Shut up! What the hell are you anyway, a midget?

THE BOY
(offensive)
I should have let him caught you.

Elizabeth frowns, wondering.

ELIZABETH
What are you talking about?

THE BOY
I’m going to tell on you, you were spying on him. You know what I mean...

Elizabeth feeling the blood rushing under her skin. 

ELIZABETH
let’ talk about this calmly.
(fake smile)
Come here...little boy.

The boy comes closer, She reaches to grab him but he was too fast for her. 

ELIZABETH
(shouts)
Stupid midget!

He runs away and obviously he was not coming back.

INT. VILLA. LATER 

She walks inside slowly looking around, then quietly heads toward the stairs.

ARTTI
(Appears)
Did you have a pleasant walk?

ELIZABETH
(jumps back) 
Oh yes,  thank you for asking.

Artti notices her thorn and dirty clothes.

ELIZABETH
(smiling)
I took a bit of a fall...it was rather funny...you should have been there...
(pause)
...well..good night.

Artti raises an eyebrow.

INT. BED ROOM. NEXT MORNING

Elizabeth lying on the bed, looking through the pages of her book.

C.U. on the open page.  
Bette Davis behind the wheel smiling into the camera. She turns another page, Joan Crawford next to a car, posing. 
As she turns more pages, she sees more  pictures of the stars next to their beautiful cars.  

INT. OUTSIDE  HER BEDROOM
Katherine knocks on the door. Before she knocks again, the door opens.

ELIZABETH
(Grabbing Katherine’s arm) 
Am I glad to see you. 
By the way, you look intensely beautiful this morning darling, and I like what you have done with your hair. 

She walks her down the hall, talking.

EXT. VILLA

Moments later, they walk out of the villa, Elizabeth still talking.

LADY KATHERINE
I’m not sure if this is such a good idea, after all I’m liable for your well being, and not to mention, missing the scenery.

ELIZABETH
Don’t be absurd. 
(short pause) 
The only reason I’m asking you is because you are nothing like her...

KATHERINE 
Like who?

ELIZABETH
Like mother, she doesn’t even believe in women's opinions mattering, let alone a woman behind the wheels. 
(sighs)
 I’m ashamed of her too Katherine, a total tragedy....
(proudly)
 but you, my dear, you are different. You are something else..
.
Katherine looks at Artti desperately. 

LADY KATHERINE
(doubtful)
It all depends on Artti, he cherishes this car, it is an obsession of his. 

ELIZABETH
Well let’s ask him. A simple yes or no will do.
(turns to Artti)
It is rather critical for my future career as an actress to be able to drive, and let me assure you that I am already a good driver, however, for obvious reasons I need to continue and practice as much as possible and since I’m heading to Hollywood... 
(turns to Katherine)
no matter what they say or do... 

ARTTI
(frustrated)
 Yes!

Lady Katherine disappointedly peers at Artti.

ELIZABETH
(smug) 
Well then...shall we?  

Katherine hesitantly enters the car, Artti joins her in the back seat.

EXT. GATE. WIDE ON CAR

After a few harsh jolts, the car surges forward with a burst of speed.

INT. CAR

Katherine grabs the door handle tightly.

 KATHERINE 
(leaning forward)
 Please Pay attention to the curves.

EXT. NARROW ROAD

The car breaks harshly in every corner. Katherine and Artti are thrown back and forth. 

INT.CAR. BACK SEAT

LADY KATHERINE
(nervously)
You said that you have driven before, right?

ELIZABETH
(quietly whispers)
 Once.. 

LADY KATHERINE
(turns to Artti)
 What did she say?

ARTTI
I believe she said ONCE.

LADY KATHERINE
(to Artti)
 Do something!

EXT.ROAD

The car passes the fork. We see the white cottage.

INT. CAR

ELIZABETH
Katherine, Who lives in that cozy white cottage? 
It looks rather charming.

LADY KATHERINE
(frowns)
 It belongs to no one that you need to know.

ELIZABETH
(SUDDENLY curious)
 Why, is something wrong with him?

LADY KATHERINE
I beg your pardon?

ELIZABETH
I mean who ever lives there
(turns back )
...or may not?
 (guilty blush)
 I mean ...how would I know....

LADY KATHERINE
(screams)
Watch out!

EXT.ROAD

An old man on a bicycle appears in front of the car.

INT.CAR

Elizabeth slams on the brake.

EXT.ROAD

Tires screech as their car comes to a halt, just inches from the old man.

INT.CAR

Lady Katherine holding on to Artti’s sleeve, her eyes tightly closed.

LADY KATHERINE
(whispers)
Did we or did we not kill that man?

ARTTI
(calmly) 
I assure you that we did not.

EXT. ROAD 

The old man picks up his bicycle, gestures to Elizabeth in anger, then gets back on his bike and peddles away.

INT.CAR

ELIZABETH
(All shaken) 
Maybe I should drive some other time. It would be a pity to miss the sights after all	
EXT. TOWN. MINUTES LATER

The car parks on a curve next to a small alley. They all get out.

ELIZABETH
(over excited)
...Bewitching, It’s so...
(turning in a circle)
I can’t quite find the right word for it...it’s right on the tip of my tongue...

LADY KATHERINE
(mumbles to Artti) 
I’m sure she’ll think of something soon enough.

They exchange a look. 

ARTTI 
Well, I have the list of errands that I need to run.

LADY KATHERINE
And please don’t forget.... 

ARTTI
(completing)
 Your mail.

LADY KATHERINE
(gratefully)
 What would I do without you. 

ARTTI
Perhaps, collect your own mail.

LADY KATHERINE
(smiling) 
You are never short of answers, are you Artti?  

He gives her a smile then walks away. 

EXT. SIDE WALK

Katherine and Elizabeth walk pass by many interesting shops. Elizabeth suddenly comes to an immediate halt. 

LADY KATHERINE
(turns around) 
What is it?

ELIZABETH
OH, I just want to see something in this shop, please go on, I’ll join you in a little while.

LADY ROSE
All right......
(points to)
I will see you inside Gabriel’s.

ELIZABETH
Where?

KATHERINE
(smiles) 
Don’t worry, you‘ll find it. It’s the only cafe in town.

INT. PASTRY SHOP

C.U. ON THE BOY: His face sticking onto the glass, totally mesmerized by the colorful display. 

ELIZABETH
(screams)
 BOO!

The boy jumps out of his skin.

ELIZABETH
(mocking)
I’m terribly sorry, did I scare you?

The boy gives her a hate look.

ELIZABETH
(Laughingly)
 Good! You deserved it.

They stare at each other for a second. 

ELIZABETH
(extends her arm)
Shall we call it even?

She raises her arm and they shake hands.

THE BOY
You still owe me.

ELIZABETH
(giving up)
Fine you midget, I owe you one.

THE BOY
My name is Hans and you owe me two.

ELIZABETH
(fake smile)
I’m Lizzy..and I’ll think about it.  

The boy turns his attention back to the display of pastries.

ELIZABETH
So what is your story, here all alone...or you came here with the rest of your kind.

THE BOY
Just my father and me.

A small woman behind the counter, walks up to her. 

THE WOMAN
Bon Giorno.

ELIZABETH
(smiles) 
Bon Giorno.

THE WOMAN
In che cosa posso servirla?

ELIZABETH
(to Hans)
do you speak Italian?

THE BOY
Nein.

ELIZABETH
Figures. 
(to the woman)
 Non Parlo Italiano!

THE WOMAN
(lifts her shoulders)
 Non parlo Inglese.

ELIZABETH
(to Hans) 
Pick anything you want...

In a second, Hans points to the biggest chocolate cookie behind the display.

THE WOMAN
Si..si. 

ELIZABETH
(to Hans)
English girls, honor their words. I think we are even now.

THE WOMAN
(wrapping)
Costa cinque lire.

Elizabeth looks at her Italian money.

ELIZABETH
(repeats)
Cinque?

C.U.  ON A MAN IN A WHITE SUIT. He rudely walks behind Elizabeth and grabs a five lire from her hand and puts it on the counter.

ELIZABETH
(to the man)
Grazies....

The man leaves the shop without acknowledging her.

EXT. SIDEWALK. MOMENTS LATER

Elizabeth and Hans walking down the street.
 
ELIZABETH
So Midget, do you always spy on people?

HANS
(smirks) 
Only the beautiful bambinas.

ELIZABETH
(baffled)
How old are you anyway?

HANS
(wrinkles his brows)
Ten.

ELIZABETH
What a tragic age that must be.

HANS
How old are you?

ELIZABETH
(glares at him)
Obviously Old enough to know when to keep my mouth shut.

Suddenly realizing the time, she stops and turns around. 

HANS
 Where are you going?

ELIZABETH
(turns to him) 
You don’t think I‘m going to spend all my time with you.

HANS
I can show you around.

ELIZABETH
(walks away)
Ciao Midget!

HANS
(yells behind her)
 you still owe me one...

INT. CAFE

Elizabeth approaches Lady Katherine, she is sitting at a table next to a well distinguished gentleman. 

THE MAN 
(stands up)
Good Afternoon.

LADY KATHERINE
Herr Hauber, let me introduce you to my house guest, MS. Elizabeth Parker.

HERR HAUBER
(pulls her a chair)
Fräulein.

Elizabeth sits down.

ELIZABETH
(smiles) 
Good day sir.

LADY KATHERINE
Lizzy, Herr Hauber and his son are our nearest neighbors. 

ELIZABETH
 Neighbors? You must be Hans’ father?

HERR HAUBER
(smiles) 
JA! I hope he has not given you any trouble?

ELIZABETH
Not at all! He is a charming young fellow.

HERR HAUBER
I am so delighted to hear that, I had hoped he would take something after me.

The two ladies smile.

LADY KATHERINE
So Herr Hauber, are you enjoying your vacation so far?

HERR HAUBER
JA!  
(whispers)
... But as I was saying, lazy Italians can make anyone go nuts, JA...do you think?

LADY KATHERINE
Italians appreciate their everyday lives. I hardly think that’s a sin. 
(raises her eyes) 
Besides, isn’t Italy, allegedly considered one of Germany’s top allies?

HERR HAUBER
(smiling back)
Of course...if anything we Germans should take a lesson from Italians. As you may know we are very strict-  

ELIZABETH
(rudely adds) 
And annoyingly meticulous!

LADY KATHERINE
(shocked) 
Lizzy!

HERR HAUBER
(laughing)
 I see the Fräulein has a good sense of humor.

LADY KATHERINE
My apologies on behalf of my young guest.

HERR HAUBER
(smiles)
Well, it is the problem with youth these days. They lack much needed discipline.

ELIZABETH
(objecting)
Disciplinary action for being honest, isn’t that a bit harsh?

HERR HAUBER
Too much honesty can get one in serious trouble.

LADY KATHERINE
(peers at Elizabeth) 
Precisely!

ELIZABETH
(Challenging him)
Getting into trouble today, could be a life saving experience for tomorrow. 
 
HERR HAUBER
Considering, if one survives the consequences in the first place,
(turns to Katherine)
which proves my point, our youth has much need for discipline.

Elizabeth wants to say more but instead she says nothing. Herr Hauber stands up.

HERR HAUBER
(smiling)
I better leave before I get pleasantly insulted again. Good-day.

Lady Katherine, gestures in apology.

LADY KATHERINE
Good day Herr Hauber.

As soon as Herr Hauber walks out of the cafe, Katherine turns to Elizabeth. 

LADY KATHERINE
Lizzy, You should not mistake honesty with rudeness.

ELIZABETH
Rudeness?

KATHERINE
I’m not really that fond of Herr Hauber personally but Lizzy dear, you should really think before you speak.

ELIZABETH
But.....
 ..(she freeze)

Katherine feeling victorious for a second, thinking she has finally got through to Lizzy, soon realizes that is 
not the reason behind Lizzy’s silence. She curiously turns around. A young attractive man standing behind her.

LADY KATHERINE
(not surprised)
Gabriel! I would like you to meet Elizabeth.

ELIZABETH
(cuts in)
 Lizzy!

LADY KATHERINE
(correcting herself)
Yes, Lizzy. She is visiting me from London. 
(turns to Elizabeth)
Gabriel owns this cafe.

Gabriel grabs Elizabeth’s hand and kisses it gently.

Gabriel
Bon será, signorina.

ELIZABETH
(blushing)
Bon sera.

Gabriel
Come stai?

ELIZABETH
(stutter) 
Bene!

Gabriel
 You speak Italian well?

ELIZABETH
(frowns nervously) 
I’m afraid, that is all I know.

Gabriel
(husky voice)
Well then I should help signorina with her Italian, si.

LADY KATHERINE
(cuts in)
Perhaps for now you can bring us some more café, Please?

Gabriel
Con Piacere...
(winks at Elizabeth)
....Gladly.

Lady Katherine watches Elizabeth as her eyes follow Gabriel. Gabriel catches her glance, she quickly looks down. 

LADY KATHERINE
(staring)
So Lizzy dear, do you have a sweetheart at home?

ELIZABETH
Sorry! 

LADY KATHERINE
Any one special?

ELIZABETH
(shrugs)
 Not at the moment. 
(justifying)
I’ve been too busy with my plans.

LADY KATHERINE
Refresh my memory, what plans is it again?

ELIZABETH
Have you forgotten already..or haven’t you been listening to me at all...Hollywood!

Gabriel
(bright-eyed)
Hollywood?

Gabriel places their cups on the small wooden table. 

Gabriel
That is also my dream.

Katherine not believing what she is hearing, looks at the young man with a question mark. 

LADY KATHERINE
This is new Gabriel, I’ve never heard you say anything about it before.

Gabriel
I have never spoken to anyone about it before...
(looks At Elizabeth)
till now...

Katherine smiles skeptically at the young player.. Suddenly a woman calls for Gabriel. Gabriel gestures politely.

Gabriel
(to Lizzy)
Perhaps we should continue this talk at a better time.

Katherine calmly sips her coffee. Elizabeth has not taken her eyes off Gabriel. Katherine quietly observes her young friend, her eyes full of concerning thoughts. When Artti walks to their table, Katherine feels rescued for the moment. 

LADY KATHERINE
(Happily) 
Oh Arrti, what took you so long. Please have a sit, would you like some espresso?

Artti raises an eyebrow.

ARTTI
Yes Thank you.
 
Moments later, Katherine looks at ease and completely distracted by her mail. Gabriel is no where in sight, 
so Lizzy turns her attention to Artti.

ELIZABETH
(staring)
May I ask you something?

ARTTI
As you wish.

ELIZABETH
Are you aware, that you could effortlessly pass as an Englishman. 
(pause)
To be honest, you hardly look Indian at all.

ARTTI
(coldly)
I assure you that I have pure Indian blood in my veins. 

Lady Katherine looks up.

ELIZABETH
You mean half pure? I gather that one of your parents must be English. 

ARTTI
Correct. But I have the complexion and soul of Indian origin.

LADY KATHERINE
(Interrupting) 
Well that’s not entirely true. You do spend much of your time putting that special lotion on your skin.

ELIZABETH
 What special lotion?

ARTTI
(justifying)
It’s only for medicinal purposes?

LADY KATHERINE
Not to mention what it does for you skin color.

ELIZABETH
(amazed) 
Are you masquerading as an Indian? 
Anything but to be an Englishman and your Family have no objections?

ARTTI
My mother has passed away and my father I have no care for his objections. 

A moment of silence is broken by laughter from the bar counter. Two young women flirting with Gabriel.

ELIZABETH
(turns around) 
Picturesque!...that was the word I was thinking of.....this place is absolutely picturesque!

INT. VILLA. LIVING ROOM. AFTER DINNER

Elizabeth follows an engaging melody. As she steps inside the living room, she sees Katherine behind the piano.

C.U. on Katherine’s delicate fingers striking the keys.

Elizabeth quietly leans against the wall, listening to a sad yet romantic melody. With every strike, a few of Katherine’s golden strings falls into her face. Katherine looks beautiful, Lizzy thought to herself. After she play the last note, she just sits there staring at the candles.

ELIZABETH
Please, don’t stop. 

LADY KATHERINE
(turns around) 
Lizzy, I didn’t know you were here. 

Elizabeth walks to the piano and sits next to Katherine.

ELIZABETH
What were you playing, it sounded so romantic, it must be a song for lovers, am I right?

LADY KATHERINE
(smiles)
Perhaps...

Elizabeth strikes a few keys.

ELIZABETH
It does not sound the same...

They laugh.

KATHERINE
So Lizzy dear, how are you bearing your stay here so far? 

ELIZABETH
(a bit embarrassed)
I wish you didn’t ask me that. I’m having too much fun.

LADY KATHERINE
(touches her hair)
Then you should enjoy the moment. Take what you can have now, you may never get another chance.

ELIZABETH
(frowns)
Sometimes, I wonder if anything goes the way I plan for at all.

LADY KATHERINE
(wisely)
I know, sometimes life seems that way. 
But I think if we just go along with it, rather than fight it, things may fall in the right places after all....
.
ELIZABETH
Are you talking about destiny now? Let it all be, isn’t that an easy way out?

LADY KATHERINE 
(smiles) 
Maybe?

ELIZABETH
(frowns)
Maybe....That’s not an answer.

LADY KATHERINE
(stands up)
That’s for you to figure out.
And for me, a hot bath and bed. 

ELIZABETH
(objecting) 
Already?

LADY KATHERINE
(smiling) 
Don’t worry, I’m sure you will find something to do and please help yourself to my library.

ELIZABETH
 Is that another hint? 

Katherine winks at her as she leaves the room.

EXT. BEACH TRAIL. LATER THAT NIGHT

Once again, Elizabeth finds herself back in front of the cottage.  

EXT. WHITE COTTAGE

A man in the white suit standing on front porch, smoking. He seems well into his forties, handsome but not very friendly looking.

ELIZABETH
(getting closer)
Hello...

THE MAN
(American accent)
 Yeah...

ELIZABETH
I think I recognize you from the shop.

THE MAN
What do you want?

ELIZABETH
(shocked) 
Nothing!

THE MAN
(rudely) 
Then go away?

ELIZABETH
(offended)
 I .....just wanted to say hello...

THE MAN
You’ve already done that.

ELIZABETH
Fine, I can go if you like.

She stands there staring at him.

THE MAN
(puffs away)
I thought you were leaving?

She stares at him for a moment longer.

ELIZABETH
(gesturing with her fingers)
May I have one, PLEASE?

The man tosses her a cigarette. Elizabeth catches it in the air.

ELIZABETH
You are an American, aren’t you?

Elizabeth puts the cigarette in her mouth. The man reaches forward and take the cigarette off her mouth, then 
turns it around and put it back between her lips.

ELIZABETH
 Oh...thank You.

The man strikes a match. Elizabeth takes his hands in hers and guides the flame to her cigarette.

ELIZABETH
(inhales deep)
I’m heading that way myself, to America.

THE MAN
AHA!

ELIZABETH
Well actually to Hollywood!
(star accent) 
You see darling, I’m going there to pursue an acting career. You know, I have already done my share of Shakespeare on stage....

THE MAN
(burst into laughter)
What was that?

ELIZABETH
(self conscious)
 what ..what do you mean?

He turns around and heads back inside, he still is laughing.

ELIZABETH
(desperately)
 Wait....

The man stops and turns around.

THE MAN
(smirk) 
Now what?

ELIZABETH
You are a painter, right?

THE MAN 
And how would you know that?

ELIZABETH
(nervous) 
I...I heard...from Katherine, I mean Lady Van Huff, your neighbor.

THE MAN
(wrinkles his forehead)
Yeah...so..

ELIZABETH
May I come in? Perhaps see some of your work?  I always try to buy art work when I‘m traveling.

The man pauses for a moment then opens the door for her.

THE MAN
Then indeed come in.

She hesitates for a second, then steps in. 

INT. COTTAGE

We see empty bottles, ashtrays full of cigarette butts, half burned candles, tons of paint tubes and brushes on the hardwood floor, the cottage is a mess.

ELIZABETH
(smart) 
Interesting decoration.

THE MAN
Don’t mention it.

Silence in the room,  Elizabeth looks uncomfortable, not sure if this was a good idea. The man pours himself a drink.

 THE MAN
 Wanna drink?

ELIZABETH
Yes, that would be lovely.’ll have a glass of wine, please.

He smirks.

THE MAN
Sorry love, It’s a whisky club.

ELIZABETH
(reluctant) 
Whisky will be just fine.

He walks to her with drinks in his hands.

THE MAN
Cheers!

ELIZABETH
 Cheers!

She takes a sip, it tastes horrible, she almost vomits.

THE MAN
(grins)
 Tasty huh?

Her face all wrinkled, she seems in much pain.  Henry just stares at her, expecting her to puke any minute. For a moment nothing happens then she feels warmer, relaxed. 
 
THE MAN
 Let’s have another one, shall we?

Elizabeth sits on the edge of the sofa, He returns with more drinks.

THE MAN
How do you know the gracious Lady Katherine?

The man sits across from her.

ELIZABETH
She is a friend of my parents...well I mean we are friends too, we knew each other back in london...I’m staying with her for summer...

The man leans forward, glaring coldly into Lizzy’s eyes.

THE MAN
To Lady Katherine then!
 (toasting) 

He drinks up and encourages her to do that too, she does with pain.

ELIZABETH
(looking around) 
Do you live alone?

THE MAN
(frowns) 
Yeah...what's it to ya?

ELIZABETH
Do you get a lot of visitors?

THE MAN
You know, for some one that I don’t even know, you ask a lot of questions.

ELIZABETH
(smiles)
I'm sorry, I’m Lizzy.

She raises her hands. He shakes it.

THE MAN
Henry.

A moment of silence. She looks around the room again.

ELIZABETH
They are portraits…,
 (squinting her eyes)
of women, right? 

HENRY
My favorite subject.
(lights a cigarette)

She tries to stand up, takes a spill over his chair. Henry Grabs her.

HENRY
Whoa...take it easy now?

ELIZABETH
I’m fine.

He grabs the glass from her hand.

HENRY
Any other questions...
 (pause) 
didn’t think so. Help yourself out.

ELIZABETH
You want me to Go...why?

Henry walks back to his mini bar.

HENRY
(pours another glass)
Because it’s past your bed time.

ELIZABETH
Do you always treat your guests this bad?

HENRY
You are not my guest.

ELIZABETH
I’m here, aren’t I?

HENRY
I didn’t invite you.

ELIZABETH
But you let me in.

Henry feeling frustrated, grabs her arms and walks her to the door.

HENRY
Yes, you are damn right, my mistake.

ELIZABETH
(let herself loose)
 just wait a minute...

Henry stops and looks at her.

ELIZABETH
I have a proposition to make, would you paint me?

HENRY
 NO!

ELIZABETH
Why not...I can pay you for it.

Henry opens the front door, expecting her to leave.

HENRY
If you happened to notice, I only paint nude.

As he shoves her off.

ELIZABETH
(laughs loud)
Is this all the fuss about, Oh  you silly thing....I can pose nude.

Elizabeth pushes Henry aside and comes back inside.

ELIZABETH
(repeats)
I said I can pose nude!

HENRY
I heard you the first time.

ELIZABETH
(grinning broadly)
I’m sure I’ll make an exceptionable painting?

Elizabeth tosses her shoes aside.

HENRY
(frowning)
What about your gracious host, won’t she mind?

ELIZABETH
(bored expression)
Are you an artist or are you just all talk and nothing to show.

HENRY
(pissed off)
I'm sorry your highness but I have better things to do. 

EXT. LIVING ROOM. MOMENTS LATER

Elizabeth emerges out from the bed room, she is wearing nothing but his robe loosely tied around her waist. 

HENRY
(stroking his beard)
Why don’t you sit on that high chair next to the wall.

As she sits herself, Henry grabs a charcoal.

HENRY
Are you ready?

ELIZABETH
(Sudden hiccups) 
Yes!

HENRY
well...
(gesturing with his fingers)
...take it off.

Elizabeth frowns and thinks for a second.

ELIZABETH
But you are still dressed.
(hiccups)

HENRY
What the...? 

ELIZABETH
(louder)
 You are still dressed-
(hiccups)

HENRY
And your point?

ELIZABETH
I’ll take it off if you take yours off.

HENRY
Don’t you think we should get to know each other...have a little laugh..tell each other secrets...NO?

Elizabeth stares blankly. Henry completely taken by her request, stares at the young girl.

HENRY
You are an odd girl, you know that?

ELIZABETH
I’ve been told worse....
(hiccups) 

Henry scratches his head, gulps down his drinks.

HENRY
(mumbles)
Oh, what the hell, what ever gets you to shut up.

C.U. ON HENRY, angrily undressing.

C.U. on ELIZABETH: Her eyes focus on him. 

HENRY
(tossing his shoes)
I have to admit I’m actually impressed.

Henry tosses his shirt aside. 

HENRY
 And I’m not easily impressed.

Elizabeth licks her dry lips. She is observing Henry’s every move, his  face, his laugh lines, his wrinkles. She feels her heart jumping out of her chest, She can not believe that she is doing this. She can not wait to see him the way she saw him a few nights ago.

C.U. ON her smile which suddenly freezes.

Cut back to Henry, As he pulls out his shirt, it reveals his tan line that fades right below his neck down to his pale out of shape torso. 

C.U. ON ELIZABETH, she covers her mouth in horror.

HENRY
(butt naked) 
Okay...there we go.

After Henry sees Lizzy’s expression, he comes to her for comfort. She jumps off her seat and the loose robe falls off her body, exposing her. 

ELIZABETH
(hiccups)
 Oh god!

She bents down to grab the robe.
 
HENRY
(walks to her)
Are you getting sick or something? 

Elizabeth gathers the robe around her and suddenly stands up. Their heads smack into one another.

ELIZABETH
(shaky voice)
I’m so sorry............  
(hiccups)
I’m sorry.....so sorry.
(hiccups) 

Elizabeth rushes to the bedroom.

HENRY
(Glance in the mirror)
 Shit, do I look that bad.  

A half-dressed Elizabeth rushes out of the bedroom, hopping on one leg, picking her shoes from the floor.

ELIZABETH
(sudden soberness)
 I .. must go ...

HENRY
(confused)
 What the hell just happened here?

ELIZABETH
(avoiding eye contact)
Thank you so much for your hospitality..
(hiccups)
...I really admire your art work.

HENRY
You are not going anywhere without an explanation.

Suddenly, the front doors opens wide and Gabriel and two young women enter.

Gabriel
(surprised)
Signorina Lizzy.

ELIZABETH
(red as a beet)
 I....
(hiccups)....

After a frozen pause, she runs out. 

Gabriel
(turns to her) 
Signorina Lizzy....what’s the rush?

The two young women burst into laughter, Gabriel turns back to face half naked Henry. 

HENRY
Just shut-up Gabriel!

Gabriel shrugs as he closes the door.

INT. VILLA. LATER THAT NIGHT

We see Elizabeth, tip-toeing inside. She Looks around for a moment, no signs of anyone, as she turns around, Artti appears in front of her.

ARTTI
I was getting worried.

ELIZABETH
No worries 
(head down)
I’m here.

She passes him by.

ARTTI
Just a minute please.

She turns white and waits tensely. 

ARTTI
(holding her bra)
 You dropped something.

He hands it back to her. They look at each other for a second. Then each walk a different direction.

EXT. TERRACE. NEXT MORNING

Every one sitting around the breakfast table, Elizabeth sinking deep in her seat. 

ELIZABETH 
(to the maid)
 More café, Por favor! 

LADY KATHERINE
You are awfully quiet this morning, are you feeling alright?

ELIZABETH
I’m fine.

LADY KATHERINE
You hardly touched your breakfast?

ELIZABETH
(pats her stomach)
 I’m just not hungry this morning.

LADY KATHERINE
(wondering)
By the way, where did you disappear to last night? I came down looking for you.

ELIZABETH
(looks at Artti)
 I went for a walk, a long walk.

LADY KATHERINE
I would rather if you didn’t stay out too late. It gets pretty dark around here.

Katherine gives her a hard stare.

LADY KATHERINE
You look awfully pale....
(turns to Artti)
 don’t you think she looks ill?

ARTTI
Yes, she does look pale.

ELIZABETH
(gives Artti a look)
 I’m fine. Please don’t fuss about me. 

Elizabeth leans back in her chair, sipping her coffee.

ARTTI
(to Katherine)
 Would you like more coffee?

LADY KATHERINE
Yes, thank you. Oh Lizzy that reminds me your friend came by looking for you.

A cold feeling creeps over Elizabeth. 

ELIZABETH
My friend?

LADY KATHERINE
Hans Hauber. Do you have any other friends here?

ELIZABETH
(sigh of relief)
 Hans!

ARTTI
He wanted to show you around?

ELIZABETH
How nice...
(pause)
I mean yes...I promised him that I will go for a walk with him......
(mumbling)
because he is so....lonely here and has...no friends.

LADY KATHERINE
Really... 
(frowns)
...I never noticed.

ELIZABETH
Well....being German and most kids here don’t really speak English.....

LADY KATHERINE
I always thought that children share a universal language.

ELIZABETH
That is a noble thought...but we don’t live in a perfect world...do we?

LADY KATHERINE
I think it is very nice of you befriending the young man.

Elizabeth stands up, grabbing her summer hat.

ELIZABETH
That’s me....
(smiling)
...always to the rescue.

Quietly she leaves the terrace. 

ARTTI
Miss Lizzy!

ELIZABETH
(turns back)
Yes?

ARTTI
Their villa is to the left.

ELIZABETH
To the left...right!
(turns to Katherine)
...don’t ever let him get away,
(thumbs up)
...he’s a star!

Elizabeth walks away. A long silent moment passes by.

LADY KATHERINE
(to Artti)
 That was rather peculiar, don’t you think?

ARTTI
Yes, I agree.

LADY KATHERINE
(deep thought)
I wonder what she is up to now. I should have not accepted this responsibility, I mean, what do I know of young girls, how am I suppose to set her straight..why did you let me do this?

ARTTI
I believe,  you did it because they were there for you when you needed them and now it was your turn to be there for them.

LADY KATHERINE
(peers at him) 
Thank you for reminding me.

CUT TO:

EXT. HANS HAUBER VILLA

Elizabeth knocks on the door. Moments later, a maid opens the door.

ELIZABETH
Bon Giorno.

THE MAID
(smiles)
Bon Giorno.

The door opens wide and Herr Hauber appears behind the maid.

HERR HAUBER
What a lovely surprise, Fräulein.

ELIZABETH
 Good Morning, Herr Hauber.

HERR HAUBER
How may I help you?

ELIZABETH
I’m looking for Hans. I thought perhaps we could go for a walk.

HERR HAUBER
What a lovely idea. Come inside, please.

ELIZABETH
Thank you.

She enters. He leads her to the library. 

HERR HAUBER
Please, have a seat.

She sits across him on a big comfy sofa.

HERR HAUBER
Hans is doing his daily homework, as soon as he is finished, he will join us.

ELIZABETH
(making a face)
Homework in the middle of Summer holiday? 

HERR HAUBER
Ah so cruel of me, you think, but you will be amazed how thankful he will be one day.

ELIZABETH
You think?

HERR HAUBER
Yes, I am positive. You should never let a young mind loose for too long, it would be such a waste. 

ELIZABETH
But not everyone is the same. Some people are meant to be loose and free. 

HERR HAUBER
Trust me Fräulein, the society will do much better without such individuals.

ELIZABETH
(debating)
But Herr Hauber, if everyone marches to the same tune, it will become a boring and tiresome world to live in.

HERR HAUBER
(raises an eye brow)
Then perhaps you should not live in my world.

She stares at him, not sure if he was serious. Then he laughs.

HERR HAUBER
I can see that there is no winning debating with a young mind.

Elizabeth smiles back. After a few seconds. 

ELIZABETH
What are your thoughts about the rumors of war?

HERR HAUBER
Well if rumors, I would not waste my time at all.

ELIZABETH
There are more than rumors, as you know?

HERR HAUBER
(point blank)
I assure you, that we will pursue the correct course of action.

ELIZABETH
(curious) 
We?

HERR HAUBER
(matter off fact)
The Third Reich!

ELIZABETH 
(worried)
And this pursuit, Herr Hauber, would it be peaceful?

HERR HAUBER
 Is war peaceful, Fräulein?

ELIZABETH
No...
 (sadly)
 I suppose not.

HERR HAUBER
(smiling)
Ah, you should not worry yourself too much. Everything will be just fine. 

Suddenly doors opens and Hans runs inside.

HERR HAUBER
(enraged) 
Hans!

HANS
(stops) 
Sorry Father.

Elizabeth Stands up and gently pulls the boy to her.

ELIZABETH
(To Hans) 
I thought perhaps, you could show me around... 
(turns to Herr Hauber)
...with your permission, of course.

HANS
(to his father)
 JA?

He nods yes.

ELIZABETH
 Thank you.

HERR HAUBER
Good day Fräulein. I’m sure my son will take a good care of you. 

HANS
JA!

EXT. GREEN MEADOWS. LATER

They hike up a lush meadow, Elizabeth throws herself on the grassy hill, then rolls under a shady area, shielding her eyes from blinding sunshine. 

HANS
(observing her)
You have been drinking, JA?

ELIZABETH
(shocked) 
How could you tell?

HANS
Pink eyes, Fuzzy around the cheeks, bad mood.

ELIZABETH
I’m not in a bad mood.

Hans sits next to Elizabeth, and starts pulling the grass.

HANS
Who were you drinking with?

ELIZABETH
Excuse me?

HANS
(devilish)
I bet it was Gabriel?

ELIZABETH
No, it wasn't Gabriel!

HANS
Every girl in town drinks with Gabriel.

ELIZABETH
Is that so?

HANS
I always see the girls giggle when he is around.

ELIZABETH
 Really... They do?

HANS
(excited)
I have seen him once kissing this really pretty girl... and then slowly he reaches under her skirt-

ELIZABETH
That’s enough...I got the picture.

She closes her eyes for a moment, her head aching.

HANS
Who then?

ELIZABETH
 It’s not any of your business.

HANS
The American, JA?

ELIZABETH
(open one eye)
What do you know about him?

HANS
He used to be a good painter. My father says his work is worth nothing now. 

ELIZABETH
(sits up)
What do you mean by that?

HANS
Father has seen his work before but he visited him once in the cottage and he saw his new collection... 
(making a funny face)

ELIZABETH
(offended)
Well...I’ve seen his work and I happen to like it.

They sit quietly for a moment. 

ELIZABETH
(still upset)
Since you are such an expert, tell me what you’re good at?

HANS
I’m going to be a pilot...for the Third Reich.

ELIZABETH
(laughs) 
Great a midget for a pilot, that will fly.

Hans mimic a plane engine and starts running around with his hands stretched out.

HANS
(plane noises) 
Right on target....getting closer...ready to drop the bomb...touch down.

He runs toward Lizzy, she closes her eyes. He laughs from her reactions. 

HANS
Mission accomplished. I bombed England.....Hoooray....

ELIZABETH
(serious)
 What does your father do?

HANS
He’s in military.

ELIZABETH
I gathered that much but what is he a general or something?

Hans totally ignores her and continue running around as a fire fighter.

ELIZABETH
Hey midget....hello, I’m talking to you.

The boy continues ignoring her. She shakes her head and lies down on the grass.

HANS
How about you?

ELIZABETH
Me...I am going to be
 (slowly opens her eyes)
 A MOVIE STAR!

Hans stops. His eyes sparkle with joy.

HANS
A movie star?

He circles around her.

ELIZABETH 
(sits up)
I can already see my name on the silver screen..
(gestures with her hands)
....Lizzy parker.

HANS
(sits next to her)
Are you going to be famous?

ELIZABETH
Of course silly, why else would I want to be a star if not to be famous...
(winks at him)
You better get a pen and paper ready. Soon you will have to wait in lines to get my autograph, if you are lucky.

A moment of silence. They both start laughing for no good reason. 

INT. VILLA. LATER

We see Katherine sitting by her desk, deep into her paper work.  Elizabeth walks in and throws herself on the comfy sofa. Moments later...

ELIZABETH
What are you doing?

LADY KATHERINE
Not much, taking care of business.

ELIZABETH
Is that the gallery business?

LADY KATHERINE
(looks up)
 Yes. 

ELIZABETH
My mother told me that you used to live in Paris when you were still- 
(a pause)
LADY KATHERINE
(looks at her)
When my husband was still alive, yes.

ELIZABETH
Do you miss it?

LADY KATHERINE
(putting her glasses down)
Do I miss what?

ELIZABETH
(interested)
Your old life?

LADY KATHERINE
(sighs)
Some times.

ELIZABETH
Would you ever go back?

LADY KATHERINE
I hardly doubt that.

ELIZABETH
But what about your family and friends? 

LADY KATHERINE
They are right here in my heart.

ELIZABETH
And your old lifestyle that you miss so much. Don’t you want to revisit it ever again?

LADY KATHERINE
The old life, well you said it, it is old. The memories I have kept and the rest I’ve let go.

Elizabeth sits quiet in her thoughts.

ELIZABETH
I like that. That’s what I’ll do.

LADY KATHERINE
What do you mean?

ELIZABETH
When I move to Hollywood, I will never look back. 

LADY KATHERINE
That’s not what I meant.

ELIZABETH
Memories...great so I never have to see them again. That is brilliant!

Katherine rubs her face in dismay.

ELIZABETH
And when they complain that why I never visit them, I just tell them...
(laughingly)
that they’re right here in my heart. 

Elizabeth leans back on the sofa, laughing out loud.

ELIZABETH
(repeats to herself) 
Right here in my heart....absolutely brilliant!

LADY KATHERINE
 Lizzy, I was thinking perhaps we should go to town, and buy you some art supplies.

ELIZABETH
(frowns) 
For me?

Katherine stands up.

LADY KATHERINE
Painting is a form of therapy. It’ll help you to express your thoughts through art.

ELIZABETH
But I don’t have any problem expressing my thoughts.

LADY KATHERINE
Exactly! 
(walks away)
 Artti...

INT. ART SHOP

Katherine happily shops for art supplies. Elizabeth, looking miserable follows her aisle to aisle.

ELIZABETH
Shall we go to the cafe afterwards?

LADY KATHERINE
(turns to Lizzy)
Tell you what dear, why don’t you go ahead. I have some errands to run and I will join you later.

ELIZABETH
Great! I mean I could stay with you, if you like.

LADY KATHERINE
 No, that’s fine. Go on!

ELIZABETH
(leaving the shop)
 Well then, I’ll see you later.

INT. CAFE

Elizabeth walks in. Not many customers inside. She sits by a small table. A young woman walks out from behind the counter, she seems angry, Gabriel follows her. 

Gabriel
(passionately)
 Isadore.....

She stops and turns to Gabriel. He walks towards her and places her red scarf around her neck, he whispers into her ears, her frown turns to a smile. 

Gabriel
(kisses her)
 Ciao Isadore.

The woman happily leaves the cafe.

Gabriel
(walks to Elizabeth)
Signorina Lizzy, Bon Giorno.

ELIZABETH
(avoiding eye contact)
 Bon Giorne.

Gabriel
Sono a Sua Disposizione?

ELIZABETH
(looks up)
 I’m sorry?

Gabriel
Signorina hasn't been practicing.. Can I get you a soda?

ELIZABETH
si... 

Soon Gabriel returns with her drink.

ELIZABETH
Was that your girlfriend?

Gabriel
(nodding her head)
 Isadore...No, no, just a good friend.

ELIZABETH
The ladies from the other night, was one of them your girlfriend?

Gabriel smiles at her.

Gabriel
No, they were also good friends.

ELIZABETH
(sips her drink) 
you sure have a lot of good friends.

Gabriel
Is everything okay?

ELIZABETH
(guilty)
You are probably wondering about the other night?

Gabriel
 No, not really.

ELIZABETH
(whispering)
 But I want you to know that it was...
(smiling)
...just this silly misunderstanding.

Gabriel
(comes closer)
 Si...

ELIZABETH
(lowering her voice)
I’m trying to say that it might have looked as if something funny was going on...

Gabriel
But ...

ELIZABETH
But nothing was going on...absolutely nothing.

Gabriel
So you and Henry are just good friends.

ELIZABETH
 Yes...good friends.

Gabriel smiles mischievously.

ELIZABETH
 (frowns)
Well no, not that good.

She looks down again. Elizabeth nervously puts a cigarette in her mouth, busying herself in search of a match book. 

We see a match strike in front of her. 

ELIZABETH
Oh, thank you Gabriel!

She looks up. 

HENRY
(grim)
 Remember me? 

Henry pulls a chair and sits next to her. She feels frozen suddenly.

ELIZABETH
 Yes...of Course.

Henry continues with his annoying grin.

HENRY
So how you been lately?
  
ELIZABETH
(a weak smile)
You must think that I am a very peculiar person?

HENRY
Peculiar!
 NAH, 
(a short pause)
 Psychotic, maybe.

ELIZABETH
I don’t blame you at all, You see Mr. Moore

HENRY
(protesting)
 Mr. Moore?
Come on...after all we‘ve been through.

Gabriel walks to their table with a tray in his hands.

Gabriel
(to Henry)
 The usual..

HENRY
Bless you Gabriel...
(to Elizabeth)
...my best man in town.

Gabriel places a whisky bottle in front of him.

HENRY
(pouring himself a drink)
 Have you met MS. Lizzy.

Gabriel
 si. 

Henry kicks a chair for Gabriel.

HENRY
Then why don’t you join us.

Elizabeth stares at him blankly.

HENRY
So Lizzy here, is going to be a movie star ...
(turns to her)
...tell us a little bit about your theater years? 

Gabriel all excited turns to her with joy.

ELIZABETH
Well, I have taken some drama courses in school.

HENRY
I thought you captured London’s stage. 

Gabriel and Henry exchange a look.

HENRY
I have a great idea....Why don’t you honor us and read us some Shakespearean literature.

ELIZABETH
Don’t be absurd. I can’t just blurt something out...

HENRY
Why not? Entertain us... that’s what actors do... right?

ELIZABETHAH 
I have only performed once on the stage.

HENRY
(stroking his chin)
 Come on...don’t be bashful...actress..or excuse me is it the movie star!

Henry stands up and starts rearranging the chairs and the tables.

ELIZABETH
(embarrassed)
 What are you doing?

HENRY
Creating a stage for you?

ELIZABETH
(pulling his sleeve)
 PLEASE don’t.

Henry puts a cigarette in the corner of his lips. 

HENRY
(peers at her)
 you have some unfinished performance to do?

ELIZABETH
(frustrated)
Listen, I can see where this is going but there is no need to ridicule me any more than I feel already. 

HENRY
I’m just an eager fan..we both are....right Gabriel?

Gabriel
(sparkling eyes)
I would love to see you perform.

ELIZABETH
Perform!
(uncomfortable)
No no...Please understand that I can’t. 

HENRY
You can’t! 
What do you mean you can’t...

Henry puts his mouth over her ear.

HENRY
You looked beautiful last night....

She looks around feeling utterly uncomfortable.

HENRY
 (Forces her to stand)
To be or not to be?

There is complete silence in the cafe. A few old men turned their seat for a better view. They are all staring at her. 

HENRY
(raises an eye brow)
Well what’s it gonna be...movie star?

Nothing happens. Elizabeth stands there frozen.

HENRY
(smirks)
 I guess...it’s not to be.

Henry turns around and pours himself a drink.

HENRY
(to Gabriel)
 Come on Gab, how about a game of chess? 

Gabriel
(tenderly)
 It’s okay Lizzy. Maybe some other time.

Gabriel rubs her shoulder for a second then joins Henry.

Gabriel
Are we playing for money?

Henry sits down and glance at Elizabeth.

HENRY
Yeah, you know me, I always put my money where my mouth is.

Gabriel pulls a chair for himself. Suddenly, we hear a voice, it’s Elizabeth.

ELIZABETH
(shaky voice) 
To be or not to be, that is the question.

Henry and Gabriel exchange a look then slowly turn around, impressed and dismayed at the same time.

ELIZABETH
(thickness in her throat)
Whether ‘tis nobler in mind to suffer, The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, Or to take arms against a sea of troubles, And by opposing end them. 
To die: to asleep; No more; and by a sleep to say we end, The heart-ache, and the thousand natural shocks, That flesh is heir to. Tis a consumation, Devoutly to be wish’d. To die, to sleep; To Sleep? Perchance to dream! aye there’s the rub; For in that sleep of death what dreams may come, When we have shuffled off this mortal coil, Must give us pause:
 
She turns to Henry. Her voice hardens.

ELIZABETH
(stares at him)
To be or not to be, is not the question.  The question is, to have or to have not, the courage and strength which makes us who we are.

Henry smiles and then looks down. Gabriel stares at her with admiring eyes, then all of a sudden he gets up and goes to her. 

Gabriel
(excitedly)
That was the most beautiful thing 
I’ve ever heard. I’m not sure if I understand it.
(smiles)
but it was beautiful.

ELIZABETH
It was Hamlet but I added some-

But before she gets to finish her sentence, Gabriel grabs her face and kisses her on the lips.

HENRY
(grins)
I’ll be damned!

Elizabeth puts her hands around the young man. Their lips seems tightly glued. The old men were cheering for them. 

HENRY
(stands up)
Bravo!

Suddenly we see Katherine, standing a few feet away, looking appalled.

LADY KATHERINE
(shocked)
Elizabeth!

Their lips comes apart and Elizabeth nervously turns to Katherine.

ELIZABETH
(to Katherine)
We were just practicing Shakespeare!

LADY KATHERINE
Please wait for me in the car.

ELIZABETH
(whispers to Gabriel)
 I’m sorry.

Then she leaves the cafe.

HENRY
(still clapping)
 Encore!

LADY KATHERINE
(angrily)
That’s enough!

Henry stops.

LADY KATHERINE
I don’t know the meaning of this sick game of yours, Mr. Moore. But I won’t allow it to happen again.

Gabriel
Signorina Van Huff, we were just having fun.

LADY KATHERINE
(peers at him)
Obviously!

Regretting his choice of words, Gabriel quietly walks back to the bar.

HENRY
(grimly) 
You are over reacting.

LADY KATHERINE
I’ll be the judge of that.

HENRY
Judge whatever you want Lady, but you are still over reacting.

LADY KATHERINE
You’re mistaking overreacting with responsibility. Something that I’m sure you are not familiar with.

HENRY
(bitterly)
Responsibility? So that’s what we call it nowadays? Interesting diversion.

The two exchange an unfriendly look.

LADY KATHERINE
Good bye Mr. Moore!

Katherine leaves the cafe, Henry sits down and pours himself a drink.

INT. VILLA. LATER

Elizabeth follows Katherine inside.

LADY KATHERINE
(furious)
I am so disappointed in you.

ELIZABETH
(wearily) 
Why? We were just playing a part. It was just an innocent kiss.

LADY KATHERINE
I may be old but I’m not buried yet. 
Honestly Lizzy, how could you allow him to toy with you like that?

ELIZABETH
(Confused)
Toy with me?

LADY KATHERINE
I understand you are young and obviously very curious...

ELIZABETH
...Katherine,

LADY KATHERINE
But you should enjoy your youth, not spoil it. 

ELIZABETH
Nothing happened. Henry,... Mr. Moore was interested to see me perform and he was really encouraging me to overcome my stage fright.

LADY KATHERINE
(serious tone) 
Tell me Lizzy, is Mr. Moore a director, a drama professor, a Hollywood producer?

ELIZABETH
(sits down)
No...but he is an artist!

LADY KATHERINE
Oh god Lizzy,  he is a jaded old drunk, a kind of person who would go to any length to bring any one to his level of loss and despair.

ELIZABETH
...I don’t understand?

LADY KATHERINE
Of course not! You are only 17 years old. 

Katherine sits next to her.

LADY KATHERINE
Promise me, that you will stay away from him.

ELIZABETH
 (confused)
 Away from Gabriel?

LADY KATHERINE
Yes, Gabriel too, that young man with a
reputation of...never mind... just promise me.

ELIZABETH
(reluctantly) 
Alright...I promise!

EXT. ON THE HILL SIDE. NEXT AFTERNOON

We are looking at Elizabeth, carelessly stroking the paint brush on the canvas. She seems aloof and weary.

CLOSE ON HENRY, standing not too far behind her, watching her. 

HENRY 
(Grabs the brush)
Ease down Lizzy, you’ve killed it already.

Henry stands back, smirking.

ELIZABETH
I shouldn't be even talking to you.

HENRY
It’s a good advice, perhaps you should take it.

ELIZABETH
(angry)
Especially talking to people who try to ridicule me.

HENRY
(bursts into laughter)
 What now?

ELIZABETH
You know exactly what I’m talking about. Setting me up like a fool yesterday.

HENRY
(raises an eye brow)
I see!

ELIZABETH
Well I hope you enjoyed humiliating me.

Henry just smiles at her.

HENRY
(calmly)
If you feel humiliated, thank yourself. Personally, I think what you did took courage....
(smirks) 
But then again, you do take that to a new level.

ELIZABETH
(justifying)
If you are referring to the other night...well...that was different.

HENRY
Sure it was.

ELIZABETH
I was under the influence of alcohol....which coincidently you offered me.

HENRY
(grins) 
You asked for it, remember...or should I say begged for it.

Henry leans back on a rock, then pulls a cigarette out of his pocket.

ELIZABETH
(mouth open)
 How dare you?

HENRY
I’m just telling it like it is. You can’t deal with it, your problem.

ELIZABETH
(exasperated)
I do not beg.

He starts laughing. 

HENRY
 Talk to me when you grow up.
 
As Henry walks away.

ELIZABETH
I said I don’t beg and most certainly, not to an old drunken loser like you. 

HENRY
Really..

ELIZABETH
Yes really and that is not only my opinion.

Henry stares at her for a second then walks away.

INT. DINNER TABLE

The sound of silverware echoes in the room. We see sad and quiet faces of Katherine and Elizabeth. Artti looks at them for a second.

ARTTI
(breaking the silence)
Are we mourning someone’s death?

LADY KATHERINE
Of course not.

ARTTI
Then why you both look so grief-stricken?

Lady Katherine and Artti exchange a look. More silence.

ELIZABETH
May I be excused?

LADY KATHERINE
(concerned)
 Of course.

ARTTI
Good night miss. Hope you feel better tomorrow.

As soon as she leaves the room.

LADY KATHERINE
(Ghastly)
 That bastard.

ARTTI
Are we talking about Mr. Moore?

LADY KATHERINE
Who else.

ARTTI
Is he the cause of her sadness.

LADY KATHERINE
I walked into the cafe and right there in front of me, they were kissing and he was encouraging them to carry on.

ARTTI
They?

LADY KATHERINE
Lizzy and Gabriel, act of a play she says, as if I haven’t been around long enough to recognize foul play.

ARTTI
Interesting! 

LADY KATHERINE
Interesting, is that all you have to say?

ARTTI
If Miss Lizzy intends to pursue her acting career, wouldn't that require her to embrace other men. 

LADY KATHERINE
What is your point?

ARTTI
Perhaps that was just an act of a play.

LADY KATHERINE
(rubbing her forehead)
Her parents did not send her to me so she can practice kissing the town’s Valentino. 
They sent her to me for guidance and peace for God’s sake.

ARTTI
For whom?

Katherine shakes her head with disbelief.

CUT TO:

EXT. HENRY’S COTTAGE. LATER THAT NIGHT

Standing in the dark, she knocks on the door. After a few seconds, Henry opens the door.

ELIZABETH
Thank God you are up. I need to talk to you.

Before he responds, she walks in. 

INT. SITTING ROOM

We track along the room, we see a few candles burning, gloomy music playing in the background.

ELIZABETH
(softly)
I just could not sleep. I’m really sorry, for the awful things I said to you. I behaved like a child.

He sits down, his face rigid with pain and sadness.

ELIZABETH
I was frustrated and angry and I just blew up on you. It was totally unfair. 
(a tear)
I’m sorry Henry.

HENRY
(gives in)
Okay ...just don’t cry. Apology accepted.

ELIZABETH
Really? So we are friends again?

HENRY
(frowns)
Again? 

ELIZABETH
Well...?

He gives her a smile. She jumps on him and hugs him tightly.

HENRY
(grins) 
Yeah whatever, friends again.

Moments later we see Henry grab a bottle as Elizabeth sits down.

ELIZABETH
This song you are playing is so sad and yet so pleasing. 

Henry shakes the empty bottle. 

HENRY
I’ll tell ya’ what sad is, an empty bottle.

ELIZABETH
Why do you have to drink all the time?

HENRY
I thought you figured that one out.

Elizabeth frowns.

ELIZABETH
I meant the real reason?

HENRY
(glance at the old clock)
Amazing!

ELIZABETH
What, tell me?

HENRY
It’s been only a few seconds and you’re already on my nerves.

ELIZABETH
I’m just concerned, that’s all. Besides that’s what friends do.

HENRY 
Drive each other nuts.

ELIZABETH
Well if they have to yes! Come on Henry why don't you just talk to me.

Henry gets up and turns the volume up.

HENRY
 shush! 

ELIZABETH
I’m serious.

HENRY
So am I, so shut up for a minute, will ya?

ELIZABETH
But-

Gently he pulls her into his arms, and they begin to dance slowly.

INT. FRONT DOOR

We see the front door open as Gabriel walks in, holding a brown bag full of dark colored bottles. Henry gently spins her off to him. Gabriel puts his bag down and takes Elizabeth’s hand and then spins her around. Feeling a bit dizzy, she almost loses her balance, Gabriel catches her in his arms, their faces just inches apart, their eyes connecting just for a brief moment nut soon the song ends.

ELIZABETH
(a trace of a smile)
I should be going.

Gabriel
(happily) 
Would you like me to walk you home?

HENRY
(winks at Elizabeth)
 Good idea.

Henry happily picks up his delivery.

EXT. BEACH 

Gabriel and Lizzy walk side by side quietly.

ELIZABETH
How long you and Henry have been friends?

Gabriel
Since he moved here, I think about 9 month or so.

ELIZABETH
Do you know why he is...you know the way he is?

Gabriel
(shrugs) 
He does not like to talk about things. But one day, I found a cut out of a newspaper article on him. 
I read it so fast in fear of being caught.

ELIZABETH
What did it say?

Gabriel
It was something about his art opening. I think he was famous once but the article was old.

ELIZABETH
How old?

Gabriel
I’m not sure. 

ELIZABETH
What else?
Gabriel

(smiles at her)
You care about him. 

ELIZABETH
(blushes)
Yes, I wished I could have helped him, some how. He seems so sad all the time.

Gabriel
I don’t think it’s up to us.

ELIZABETH
Why not?

Gabriel
Because when a man drinks like that, there could be only one reason.

ELIZABETH
(curious)
What?

Gabriel
A woman.

She looks away. A few moments of silence.

Gabriel
I hope you are not angry with me for kissing you in the cafe?

ELIZABETH
No! beside I kissed you back.

Gabriel
You are a very good kisser.

ELIZABETH
Me? 
(Blushes)
No, you are.

He grabs her hand gently.

Gabriel 
Since that afternoon...I‘ve been thinking about acting. Maybe one day, I can be a leading man.

ELIZABETH
Like Rudolf Valentino.

Gabriel
Yes!
What A beautiful dream.
 (gazing into the sky)
Imagine making love to every women in the world...

ELIZABETH
Excuse me?

Gabriel
(turns to Elizabeth)
you Know through the screen, of course...

ELIZABETH
And make them all fall in love with you.

Gabriel smiles.

ELIZABETH
And then break every one of their hearts.

Gabriel
(objecting) 
No! I would never break a woman’s heart. 

He brings her closer to himself.

Gabriel
(serious)
You see, women are mythical creatures, sent from God, to be cherished, to be loved.

Then he holds her face between his two hands.

ELIZABETH
And how on earth could you love every woman? Don’t you think it’s a mathematical impossibility.

Gabriel
You will do it,
(kissing her forehead)
one by one. 

ELIZABETH
(mesmerized)
I see.

Gabriel
(staring)
I think there is nothing worse than to have never been loved.

Elizabeth stares back into his eyes.

Gabriel
(husky voice)
Have you ever been loved Lizzy?

ELIZABETH
(nervous)
Oh yes...my dog, Hollywood, loves me.

Gabriel kisses her on her left cheek.

Gabriel
I mean by a man?

ELIZABETH
(fidgety)
My father loves me.

Gabriel
(whispers) 
I mean by a lover?

CLOSE on Gabriel as he kisses her. Elizabeth closes her eyes. When he stops, she slowly opens her eyes.

Gabriel
You are home.

ELIZABETH
Oh yes...( looking around) Thank you. 

She stares at him for a second.

ELIZABETH
(questioning)
See you tomorrow?

Gabriel
(winks)
Come to the alley behind the café, at noon.

She nods her head and watches Gabriel whistle as he slowly disappears in the dark.

INT. VILLA. FRONT HALL. MOMENTS LATER

We see her looking around. Nothing else is visible as far as she can see, she sighs with relief. She turns as Artti appears in front of her.

ELIZABETH
(gasps) 
God, you scared me.

ARTTI
Sorry Miss.
I did not intend to, but you should really stop coming home so late.

ELIZABETH
(whispering)
 I just needed some fresh air.

ARTTI
(whispering back)
You don’t have to whisper, Lady Katherine has gone to bed already.

ELIZABETH
Do you know where I was?

ARTTI
I’m afraid so.

ELIZABETH
You won’t tell her about it, will you?

ARTTI
What would be the point of it.

ELIZABETH
Thank you.

Artti smiles at her with understanding look.

ARTTI
I remember how it was to be young.

Elizabeth eyes sparkle with joy and curiosity.

ELIZABETH
Used to be young, you are still young....so tell me, were you naughty?

ARTTI
(matter of factly)
No, I was just young.

ELIZABETH
But...I mean, is that why your father disowned you?

ARTTI
(serious look)
NO.

ELIZABETH
Then why? Please tell me, I’m dying to know.

ARTTI
He disowned me because I found out who I was? 

ELIZABETH
(curious) 
Who are you?

ARTTI
My birth name is John Herbert Marshall. 

ELIZABETH
Then who is Artti Patel?

ARTTI
It is me.

ELIZABETH
But you said...

ARTTI
It’s a long story, perhaps not best to be told at this time.

Elizabeth sits down on the stairs as she pulls his sleeve.

ELIZABETH 
I have nothing better to do...please.

ARTTI
(sits down)
My mother died at my birth. I was brought up by our Indian house-keepers. They were always so loving and caring for me, as if I were their own blood. Later I found out, that I was. 

ELIZABETH
(wide-eyed)
What?

ARTTI
After my mother’s death, my father felt that there is no need to tell me the truth at all. But everything changed when my grandfather passed away, the truth came out.

FLASH BACK. INDIA

INT. ARTTI’S CHILDHOOD HOUSE

We see a young Artti arguing with his father.

YOUNG ARTTI 
How could you lie to me for all these years. 

FATHER
(yells)
Listen to me. We are going back home to England. Do you hear me...

The father slams the door as he leaves the room.

BACK TO THE VILLA. 

Elizabeth listening eagerly.

ARTTI
So the next day, at my grand father’s funeral... 
(deep smile)
I put on one of his clothes. I did it to make my father angry, but then something magical happened, as if I had just seen myself for the very first time. 

FLASH BACK. INDIA

INT. ARTTI’S OLD HOUSE

We see the young Artti standing in front of long standing mirror. He sees his grandmother’s reflection in the mirror. The old woman looking at him with proud and admiration, He walks to her and embrace her with love and respect as the reflection morphs back into his own.

BACK TO THE VILLA.

ARTTI
Of course, that was the end of my relationship with my father. 

ELIZABETH
You never went back to England?

ARTTI
Not for many years. I had a good education in India and I found work easy, so I supported my grandmother as well. 

ELIZABETH
You were happy there?

Artti deep in his thoughts, smiling.

FLASHBACK. INDIA

EXT.GARDEN

We see Artti with a young beautiful Indian girl, looking at each other with utmost love. He puts a flower in her long dark hair.

BACK TO THE VILLA

ARTTI
(proud) 
Her name was Nadine.

ELIZABETH
(smiling) 
You were in love?

ARTTI
(pleasant smile)
 She was my soulmate.

And then suddenly he becomes silent. 

ELIZABETH
(all concerned)
What happened to Nadine? Please tell me that she didn’t die on you (shaken) no...not Nadine..?

ARTTI
(frowns) 
Lizzy, I assure you that she is not dead.

ELIZABETH
(worried)
Then what happened?

ARTTI
Nothing, her parents wed her to a wealthy man.

ELIZABETH
(disappointed)
 OH!

ARTTI
I could not bare to live there, I promised my grandmother that I will take care of her financially. So I did until her death.

ELIZABETH
Then you went to England?

ARTTI
Yes. And I took my grandfather’s name.

ELIZABETH
I see, so how did you meet Katherine?

ARTTI
Through a mutual friend. She needed a personal assistant who could wear many hats.

ELIZABETH
(smiles)
And you sure do.

They sit peacefully for a few seconds, then Elizabeth frowns again.

ELIZABETH
Artti, do you ever wonder, if you and Nadine were truly each other’s soulmates?

ARTTI
 NO! Why do you ask?

ELIZABETH
(wrinkle her eyes)
Well,  aren’t true soulmates meant to die in each others arms rather than accept a fate decided by their parents?

Artti sits silent, he seems speechless for once.

ELIZABETH
(yawns) 
Ah, I’m so tired, thank you Artti. 

She kisses him on the cheek then walks up the stairs to her room. CLOSE ON ARTTI who remains motionless and deeply disturbed.

EXT. TERRACE. LATE MORNING

We see Elizabeth looking outside through a binoculars, then anxiously puts it down and jumps back on the sofa. Suddenly doors open and Hans walks in.

ELIZABETH
What are you doing here?

HANS 
I thought perhaps you like to go for a hike...JA?

ELIZABETH
(pushing him out)
No, you can’t stay here.

HANS
(maneuvering)
 Why?

ELIZABETH
(looking outside)
 I don’t have time to explain ..just leave now.

HANS
 Why are you trying to get rid of me?

ELIZABETH
Because you are my alibi?

HANS
What is an alibi?

ELIZABETH
(grabbing Hans collar)
 Get out....

As she shoves Hans down the terrace, she notices Lady Katherine heading back. She grabs Hans and drags him inside.

ELIZABETH
Bloody Hell, Not that way.

EXT. LIVING ROOM. MOMENTS LATER

HANS
You are up to something...JA! I won’t leave till you promise me a kiss.

ELIZABETH
(stunned) 
what? 

Hans runs around the living room. Elizabeth chases him around. We see Lady Katherine approaching the terrace. 

ELIZABETH
(desperate)
 Alright, I owe you a kiss.

HANS
On the lips.

ELIZABETH
(peers at him)
Fine, now get out.

As soon as she shuts the door behind Hans, she grabs a book from the end table and jumps on the sofa. Moments later Lady Katherine steps inside.

LADY KATHERINE
Lizzy, 
(surprised)
I thought you were talking to someone.

ELIZABETH
 No. 

LADY KATHERINE
I could swear I heard a conversation.

ELIZABETH
Oh that....that was me.

LADY KATHERINE
(frowns) 
You? You were talking to yourself?

ELIZABETH
(smiling)
Of course not, I just love to read out loud.
Lady Katherine looks curious, as she recognizes the book in her hands.

LADY KATHERINE
You were reading a French dictionary out loud?

ELIZABETH
(looks at the book) 
No wonder I had such a hard time reading it. 

LADY KATHERINE
And you were reading it upside down?

ELIZABETH
(puts the book down)
 I never really liked French.
 
LADY KATHERINE
Are you alright?

ELIZABETH
Yes...I’m fine.

LADY KATHERINE
Perhaps you should have joined me for a stroll on the beach.

ELIZABETH
(peeks outside)
It is indeed too beautiful outside to waste time with a dictionary...isn’t it?

LADY KATHERINE
How about-
ELIZABETH
(cuts in)
Visit Hans? 
LADY KATHERINE
Well...

ELIZABETH
Perhaps we go for a hike, or a swim in the ocean...who knows, he is full of surprises.

LADY KATHERINE
I was hoping that you and I could spend some time together.

ELIZABETH
(turns around)
Of course. I hope you don’t think 
I‘m an ungrateful guest.  

LADY KATHERINE
I feel rather uneasy since our little talk.

ELIZABETH
Don’t be. My parents have left a burden on your shoulders to take care of their sassy daughter. I know you feel ultimately responsible for me. I respect that, I really do, Katherine.

LADY KATHERINE
I was not happy about how we ended that discussion.

ELIZABETH
I could stay in and we can talk... 

LADY KATHERINE
That’s alright, but how about a special dinner tonight? 

ELIZABETH
Sounds great.

LADY KATHERINE
Perhaps we can discuss the journey of an ambitious talented young artist to a far-away land.

ELIZABETH
(smiles)
Or possibly, the gracious Lady of the manor, would share some of her cherished memories, of a life she once lived.

LADY KATHERINE
(laughs)
 Oh Lizzy...I’m so happy that you are here.
(pause) 
Now go on...

EXT. BACK ALLEY. BEHIND THE CAFE
We see far in distance. Suddenly a motorbike roars into frame, heading for Elizabeth. It’s Gabriel.

Gabriel
Jump on.

ELIZABETH
(excited)
I didn't know you had a motorcycle.

Gabriel
It’s not mine.

ELIZABETH
It’s not stolen, is it?

Gabriel
No, I borrowed it from my cousin Giovanni.
Revving the engine.

Gabriel
(Smirking)
He just doesn’t know it yet.
Pulls the goggles over his eyes.

EXT. ROAD
She tightens her grip around his waist, and keeps her eyes shut.

ELIZABETH 
(asks)
Have I met your cousin yet?

Gabriel
 (loud)
 No...he is fighting in Africa.

ELIZABETH
Oh ... how come you aren’t fighting in Africa?

Gabriel
(shrugs) 
Because I’m lucky.

ELIZABETH
Or too smart.
He speeds up.

Gabriel
Never mind that...why Don’t you just open your eyes.

ELIZABETH
 I don’t think so.

EXT. HIDDEN COVE. ON THE BEACH

We see them getting off the bike.

ELIZABETH
Oh my God, look at this ocean, I have never seen this shade of blue before...

Gabriel finds a perfect spot under the sun, then throws a blanket on the sand. He pops the wine cork and in one slick move he pulls her down, into his lap.

Gabriel
 You see those hills over the bay. 
His cheek gently brushes against hers.

ELIZABETH
(aroused) 
yes.

Gabriel
It is the most heavenly place you can imagine.

ELIZABETH
More heavenly than here?

Gabriel
I spent a lot of time there growing up
.
He drinks from the wine bottle, then puts the bottle on her lips, she drinks up. Feeling the warm sun, Elizabeth rolls up her sleeves. Gabriel smiles at her and pull his shirt off and exposes his tan masculine body.

Gabriel
It’s hot.
 
ELIZABETH
 Yes...I’m toasting.

Gabriel
 Here let me help you.
And without her permission, he pulls her shirt off. Elizabeth shows no resistance and lets him undress her. 

Gabriel
(disappointed)
What is this...another dress?

ELIZABETH
No...this is my undergarment. I should have brought my bathing suit.

Gabriel kicks his shoes off, then lies on his back facing the sun. Elizabeth slowly takes his shoes off and after a short pause unzips her skirt then takes it off. She lies on her side beside Gabriel.
Gabriel

(turns to her and whispers)
Is this silk?

ELIZABETH
Yes.

Gabriel gently rubs his fingers on the delicate fabric.

Gabriel
It feels nice.

Elizabeth stares into his blue eyes, looking unusually bright with the sun in it. His skin a golden tan, his face strong like a Roman statue, his lips bold and beautiful. Gabriel was the most exotic man she had ever seen. Gabriel moves closer.

ELIZABETH
(nervous)
Tell me about the hills over the bay.

Gabriel
The hills...
(pauses)
Oh yes, my mother used to take me there when I was a young boy...

ELIZABETH
 How nice.

Gabriel
(sits up) 
She loved that place...from what I remember, it was covered with all kind of wild flowers...
(closes his eyes)
.. the smell of lavender.......

ELIZABETH
(sits up) 
Take me there.

Gabriel
 I can’t.

ELIZABETH
 Why not?

Gabriel
I haven’t been there in years...not since my parents...
 (deep sigh)
...well the accident.

ELIZABETH
What happened to them?

Gabriel
You see, my mother shot my father..

ELIZABETH
(shocked) 
What?

Gabriel
She caught him in bed with another woman...

ELIZABETH
So she killed him?

Gabriel
She thought she killed him, but he just got wounded.

ELIZABETH
(nodding in disbelief)
Then what?

Gabriel
Then she committed suicide, by poison...that’s when my father found her..
(stares into her eyes)
and only then he realized how much he really loved her...
Gabriel looks extremely sad.

Gabriel
Then he took the poison too.
Elizabeth stares at him blankly.

Gabriel
(sadly)
That’s how I got the cafe, you see why it has been so difficult to leave it behind.
A tear runs down Elizabeth’s cheek, Gabriel turns toward her and wipes her tear with his finger then tastes it with his tongue.

Gabriel
Mm...salty!
We see Gabriel move in close, his lips almost on hers. Elizabeth shuts her eyes, her mouth wide open...then nothing.

ELIZABETH
(opens her eyes)
Where are you going?

Gabriel
(angry)
To fetch your fan club!

Elizabeth confused watches Gabriel walks towards the bushes, and like a magician he pulls Hans out of the bushes. 

HANS
(yelling) 
Let me go.

ELIZABETH
Oh No! 

Gabriel turns the boy upside down and dangles him in the air.

Gabriel
You spying little brat! I am through with you following me everywhere.
Hans tries to free himself, but to no avail. His ankles are locked in Gabriel’s strong fist. As the boy struggles, his pants gather up around his thighs and reveals a handful of black and blue bruises. 

ELIZABETH
(stands up)
That’s enough, Gabriel. Please Put him down.

Elizabeth and Gabriel exchange a look. Gabriel puts him down. Instantly Hans pulls his pants down, covering his bruises.

HANS
(looking at Elizabeth)
 I didn’t mean to spy on you, I swear.

ELIZABETH
 How did you get those bruises?

HANS
I fell.

Gabriel
(smirks) 
It looks more like papa’s handy work to me.

HANS
(kicks him)
Shut up, I said I fell.

Gabriel
Take it easy boy.
Hans aggravated picks up his marbles from the sand and shoves them into his pocket.

ELIZABETH
(pleads to Gabriel)
Can he stay with us?
Gabriel gestures no.

ELIZABETH
Please...
Gabriel
(upset) 

ELIZABETH
(to Hans) 
Are you hungry?

HANS
(head down)
Nein...

ELIZABETH
Too bad, we have plenty of delicious food here, come and see for yourself.
Elizabeth and Gabriel sit down on the blanket and after a few seconds Hans joins them. She smiles at Gabriel thankfully. Hans immediately reaches for the bottle, Gabriel smacks him on the back of his head.

Gabriel
Not so fast.

ELIZABETH
So how did you get those bruises?

HANS
(defensive)
 I said I fell....down some stairs

ELIZABETH
...but how ...where...

Gabriel
(sarcastically)
Do you “fall” often?
The boy punches Gabriel in the stomach, Gabriel smacks him in the head again.

ELIZABETH
(yells) 
Alright, that’s enough you two.
She exchanges a look with Gabriel, they have no doubt from where those bruises came.

Gabriel
(crosses his arm) 
I see this kid everywhere, like a shadow.

ELIZABETH
Then perhaps he is more of your fan club than mine.

Gabriel
(to Hans) 
Why do you follow me all the time? 
The boy ignores him.

ELIZABETH
Gabriel, leave him alone, he is just a boy. 

Gabriel
Just a boy...you won’t beleive the places I have seen him...

ELIZABETH
(raises an eyebrow) 
Yes, do tell?

Gabriel
He’s just everywhere.
They watched the little boy eat for a while. They all sat there savoring the ocean. Suddenly Elizabeth sinks her hands deep into the sand and as she stands up behind the boys, pours the sand over their heads, then runs away laughing. 

Gabriel
(to Hans)
Let’s get her.
They run off after her. Gabriel catches her in a second and throws her over his shoulder, and turns and heads toward the ocean.

ELIZABETH
(screams in laughter)
No..put me down....I swear I kill you  if you throw me in...

Gabriel
Who is the fool now?

ELIZABETH
Hans, help..please stop him. 
The little boy attacks Gabriel by tickling him.

Gabriel
(Laughing hysterically)
Stop..Stop! I’m ticklish..
Gabriel grabs the young boy and throws him over his other shoulder.

Gabriel
One...
We hear Elizabeth and Hans screaming.

Gabriel
Two...
ELIZABETH
No! Please don’t!

Gabriel
Three!
They all scream, as he jumps in the water. Their laughter echoes in the beach.

BLUE SKY. LATER

Not a cloud in sight. The three of them laying peacefully under the sun. Suddenly we hear a rumbling, then a plane goes by then rumbling grows louder and a few other planes follow. 

HANS
(looking in the sky) 
Those are German planes.

Gabriel
Are you sure?

HANS
JA!

ELIZABETH
(worried)
 What are they doing here?

Gabriel
Why so many?

HANS
Father says soon they will be everywhere.
We see the planes go by.

INT. COTTAGE. LATER AFTERNOON

Elizabeth and Gabriel running to the cottage. Henry sitting on his sofa chair, holding a half empty bottle of Whisky, looking extremely dispirited.

ELIZABETH
Henry, you won’t beleive what we saw this afternoon, so many planes, flew By...

Gabriel
German planes.

ELIZABETH
(trying to get his attention) 
I’m really worried, Hans said they will be more, many more....
Each standing on a side of Henry’s chair. They exchange a look.

Gabriel
Maybe you should go...
(whispers)
... he does not look so good.

ELIZABETH
(whispers back) 
What do you think is wrong with him?

Gabriel
(gestures drinking)
 You better leave...I’ll stay with him...

ELIZABETH
Does it last a long time?

Gabriel
I don’t know...I will make some coffee...
.
ELIZABETH
Perhaps I can help...
Suddenly Henry looses his cool and shouts at them.

HENRY
For God’s sake, if you need to talk behind my back, do it outside. 
Gabriel and Elizabeth both stand back for a second. Gabriel noticing an envelope on the floor.

Gabriel
(picks it up)
 What’s this?
 Enclosed he finds a check.

Gabriel
(shocked)
We sold the paintings? 
Elizabeth frowns, then grabs the letter off his hands
.
ELIZABETH
What do you mean, “we” sold the paintings? 
Gabriel exchanges a look with Henry. 

Gabriel
 Henry, can I tell her, she’s our friend.

HENRY
(yells) 
Shut up Gabriel!

ELIZABETH
What’s going on here?
Her eyes slowly moves around the room, passes Henry and stops on Gabriel.

ELIZABETH
(discovering)
You....I should have known....it was you....

HENRY
(sarcastically)
Oh splendid...Lizzy has saved the day once again.....Jolly good show....let’s all celebrate...
Gabriel stands back quietly. 

ELIZABETH
(wide eye) 
But I don’t understand.....why?

Gabriel
(shrugs)
Henry asked me to do a bunch of paintings ... we sent them away and the deal was if we ever sell any...he will share the money with me.....
Elizabeth turns to Henry for a possible explantation. 

Gabriel
(holding the check)
Henry...we got the money....this is good news.....this is what we wanted....
Henry looks up at Gabriel with hateful eyes.

HENRY
Are you as stupid as you look?

Gabriel
(happily) 
Lizzy, If I sell a few more, then I’ll be able to get out of here, you know without selling the cafe.
Elizabeth forces a smile at him.

HENRY
(sicken) 
You idiot! There won’t be anymore.

Gabriel
If they sell once ..they will sell again.
Henry suddenly stands up, charging toward Gabriel. Elizabeth steps back.

HENRY
You don’t get it, do you...this is a joke on me....
Henry suddenly grabs the check off Gabriel’s hand.

Gabriel
(screams) 
Don’t do it.
But it was too late, the check was already torn into many small pieces.

Gabriel
(yells) 
Why....

HENRY
Because your work is a piece of shit....look at them....
(kicking them aside)
All worthless junk and now they are my worthless junk.
He starts smashing all the paintings.

ELIZABETH
Henry, stop, they were sold.

HENRY
(sarcastically)
YEAH, Because it carries my god-damn name!

Gabriel
(to Elizabeth)
You better leave.

HENRY
(laughs like a mad man)
Finally, a good idea. Why don’t you protect your only investments, young virgin girls.

Gabriel
(pushes him away)
 Henry that’s enough....
Henry puts his arms forcefully around Gabriel’s neck.

HENRY
(All drunk)
 What? You haven’t closed the deal yet?
Gabriel pushes Henry again to a side. Elizabeth looks at Gabriel with questioning eyes.

HENRY
(turns to Elizabeth)
You should tell her the romantic tale of Mami and Pappi...I’m sure she would fall for that one.
Gabriel totally humiliated, leaves the cottage.

HENRY
(slams the door)
 Ciao...don’t come back.
Henry turns to see Elizabeth’s enraged face.

ELIZABETH
 There was no need for that.

HENRY
You are still here? 

ELIZABETH
What is wrong with you?
 
HENRY
(annoyed) 
Get out, Lizzy. I don’t need you, I don’t need anybody...just get the hell out of my life.

ELIZABETH
Not till you hear me out.
Henry dizzy catches his fall by grabbing a table.

ELIZABETH
(loudly) 
It’s pathetic how you constantly pretend that you don’t need anybody that you don’t care. When all along, you are crying for help...you are so bloody selfish and self centered that you can’t possibly see that we are trying to help you.

HENRY
(shouts)
Get out!

ELIZABETH
You are a sad man Henry. 

HENRY
Tell me something that I don’t know.
Elizabeth runs out of the cottage.

INT. COTTAGE

Henry frustrated picks up his bottle but it’s empty. Suddenly he sees his own reflection in the window, sickened by his image, he throws the bottle to the window and shatters it.
EXT.  BEACH. A FEW MOMENTS LATER

We see Elizabeth running after Gabriel.

ELIZABETH
Gabriel, wait.

Gabriel
(sad)
 Please Lizzy, l need to be alone.

ELIZABETH
(catches up)
I don’t think he really meant what he said.

Gabriel
No, he meant it and he was right.
He walks away from her.

ELIZABETH
 Was it all a lie?
Gabriel refuses to face Lizzy. He keeps looking the other way.

ELIZABETH
Well was it?

Gabriel
(with pain)
 The worst part is that it is not a lie.

ELIZABETH
So then the story about your parents is true.

Gabriel
(nods)
Yes. But I use their tragedy...
(ashamed face)
You know... women like it, they feel closer to me that way....

ELIZABETH
(nods her head)
Gabriel...this may come as a shock to you, but I don’t think that is why they come close to you.
.
Gabriel
Please Lizzy, you just want to make me feel good but I don’t deserve your friendship. I’m no good, can’t you see that.

He sits on the beach, gazing at the sunset. Elizabeth sits next to him. She runs her hand through the back of his hair, gently urges him to turn his face.

ELIZABETH
Look at me. What I see in you is a gift, not a curse. Don’t you think it would have been a boring world without any Rudolf Valentino’s....

Gabriel
(looks at her)
Now you make me smile, when I should be dying instead.

ELIZABETH
(smiles) 
Dramatic, just like your hero. 

He smiles back at her gratefully. She stares at him for a second, something looked different about him, he looked vulnerable and fragile. Elizabeth holds his face between her hands and then slowly presses her lips against his. She kisses him with all her heart. Gabriel holds her tight in his arms as he kisses her back wildly, their hands caressing each others bodies with heated passion. Gabriel’s hand move’s down across her chest cupping her breasts, his hand slips beneath the fabric...their bodies collapse onto the ground as Gabriel rolls on top of her...We pull away, as their bodies dissolve into the night. 

INT. HER BEDROOM. NIGHT
We see Elizabeth tip toe inside her room. Quietly she closes the door. We see her back. As she turns, she sees Katherine staring intensely at her.

LADY KATHERINE
(curtly) 
Were where you?
Elizabeth looks taken, does not know what to say.

LADY KATHERINE
(glares at her) 
I asked you, where were you?

ELIZABETH
(remembering)
I’m so terribly sorry Katherine. I completely forgot about our dinner.

LADY KATHERINE
I trusted you, and all this time you have been feeding me lies.

ELIZABETH
Katherine....if you give me a chance I can explain....

LADY KATHERINE!
(laughs bitterly)
 You mean more lies?

ELIZABETH
No! No more lies. I will tell you everything
.
LADY KATHERINE
(furious)
I knew it. So it’s true.
(pacing)
So all these nights that you disappeared....you were with him. 

ELIZABETH
No, it’s was not like that at all. I would have told you sooner but you made it so difficult.

LADY KATHERINE
(paranoid)
It was his idea wasn't it. To sneak around, to humiliate me like this....

ELIZABETH
Of course not
! 
LADY KATHERINE
(anguish)
Did you sleep with him?

ELIZABETH
(looking shocked) 
Katherine...

LADY KATHERINE
(yells)
 Did you?

ELIZABETH
Yes!
Katherine puts her hand on the dresser for a second, looking down with her eyes shut.

LADY KATHERINE
(cold calm) 
I want you out of this house first thing in the morning.
As Katherine walks by her, Elizabeth grabs on to her.

ELIZABETH
(wearily)
This is insane? Why are you punishing me like that. 
Katherine pushes her away and leaves the bedroom without a word. Elizabeth follows her.

ELIZABETH
I will leave if you want me too. But let me explain... What happened between us..
Suddenly Katherine stops and turns around, staring right at her.

ELIZABETH
It was beautiful.
Katherine loses her cool and before Elizabeth say anything more she slaps her. Elizabeth eyes pops wide open, shocked. She stands a few step back, staring at Katherine, not believing what just happened. Tears begin to form. Katherine stares back motionless with no regrets. Elizabeth quietly walks back to her room and closes the door.

EXT. VILLA. LATE MORNING

We see Artti putting Elizabeth’s luggage in the trunk of the car. They exchange a sad look.

ARTTI
I‘m really sorry Miss. Last night I went to bed early.

ELIZABETH
It’s not your fault.

ARTTI
I’m not sure what exactly has happened, when I do sleep, I sleep most deeply.

ELIZABETH
I’m not sure what happened either...

ARTTI
This morning Lady Katherine informed me that you are leaving. She was not herself...I am very concerned about her.

ELIZABETH
Oh Artti, can you possibly talk to her. What happened between me and Gabriel...well.....we really care about each other. Oh Artti can you please talk to her...
..
EXT. FRONT DOOR
Suddenly the door opens and we see Katherine stepping out of the house.

LADY KATHERINE
(to Artti)
I changed my mind, I will come to
the train station.

Katherine gets in the car without acknowledging Elizabeth presence. Elizabeth attempts to say something but she does not.

INT. CAR

Silence.

ARTTI
(turns to Elizabeth)
Perhaps you would like to say goodbye to your young friend, Hans.

ELIZABETH
(realizing)
Oh yes, I should. I really should.

ARTTI
I beleive the Hauber’s have breakfast in town on Sundays.

ELIZABETH
(looking at Katherine) 
It would mean so much to me.
She ignores her.

ARTTI
(looks back at Katherine)
 Would that be alright with you.
Katherine gives her approval to Artti. 

EXT. TOWN

The car pulls near by the cafe.

ELIZABETH
(leaving the car)
I won’t be long.

INT.CAR

As soon as she leaves, Artti turns back to Katherine. Katherine looking outside from her window.

ARTTI
Lady Katherine...

LADY KATHERINE
Please Artti, I’m not in the mood for any of your lectures.
Katherine looks away, with no interest. 

ARTTI
I have been with you for many years, and as a friend, which I consider myself to be, I must tell you that you are acting most foolishly.
Katherine stares straight ahead.

INT. CAFE.  A MOMENT LATER

We track along with Elizabeth, she looks about desperately. We see a small crowd gather around a table.  Puzzled, she stops a moment, looking for her friends. We move through the scene, then to a table. We see Henry and Herr Hauber playing chess, intensely.

ELIZABETH
(pushes through)
Mi Scusi.

She finds her way to Gabriel. Gabriel looks at her, then smiles.

ELIZABETH
(Whispers)
 What is going on?

Gabriel
A game of chess, though this one looks like War of the Worlds.

ELIZABETH
Is he alright now?

Gabriel
We talked this morning, 
(raises an eyebrow)
He actually apologized.

ELIZABETH
No..did he!
Henry seemingly in control of the game, makes his move. Then leans back on his chair and lights a cigarette. His eyes meets Elizabeth’s, then he winks at her mischievously. Elizabeth nods her head in disbelief. 

ELIZABETH
How long will this take?

Gabriel
Who knows, hours..

ELIZABETH
Hours? I don’t have that much time. 
Elizabeth takes a step forward.

ELIZABETH
Excuse me gentlemen for interrupting your game. 
They don’t bother to look up and continue playing.

ELIZABETH
Herr Hauber, I am desperately looking for your son. I would like to say goodbye to him before I leave.
Gabriel looks at her with surprise.

Gabriel
Leave?
Elizabeth sadly nods yes.

HERR HAUBER
(annoyed by her)
 Why with such rush, Fräulein? 

ELIZABETH
Circumstances have changed
 (looks at Gabriel)
I have to leave at once.
Henry makes his move. 

HENRY
(smirks)
I hope it’s not because your little friend spotted a couple of German planes. 

Henry and Herr Hauber exchange an strange look. An intense moment goes by.

ELIZABETH
(confused)
 no...

HENRY,
Because if that’s why we can settle it right here, what you say Hauber...
(jokingly)
should we be afraid...are the Germans coming...?

Herr Hauber moves his Knight.

HERR HAUBER
(coldly)
I’m afraid I can not help you in these matters.
 Henry tactfully moves his queen.

HENRY
Oh that’s right, Spies do stick together...by The way, check and mate.

HERR HAUBER
Oh you Americans, you think you are so entertaining.
(Finishes his drink)
You should thank your luck.

HENRY
(foolishly) 
As a matter of fact I do, especially every time I beat a Nazi spy.

CLOSE UP ON HENRY: A fist punches him on the face. Henry falls back, blood coming down his nose. The crowd circles around them. Elizabeth gets anxious, knowing what’s about to happen next.

We see Herr Hauber come at Henry again, throwing him to the ground. Henry tries to get up, but as soon as he stands, Hauber punches him again and again, Henry doubles over with pain, coughing up blood. Herr Hauber comes at him once more, only this time Gabriel blocks his fist in mid-air. 

Gabriel
(pushes him away)
Stop it now.

HERR HAUBER
(raises his voice)
 You Idiots!
 (smiling)
You can laugh now but I assure you, your luck will end soon. 

There is a sudden stillness. We watch Herr Hauber as he collects his things and walks out. Lizzy rushes out, Gabriel follows her outside.

ELIZABETH
(to Gabriel)
He will hurt him...we have to do something...

Gabriel
Lizzy calm down. There is nothing you can do. 

ELIZABETH
(teary eyed)
It’s all my fault, I should have not said anything, he will blame Hans.
Gabriel gently pulls her into his arms for support, as Herr Hauber drives away.

INT. CAFE.  A FEW MINUTES LATER

Gabriel
(asks a man)
 Dove “e Enrico?"

The man replies something in Italian. Elizabeth does not understand.

ELIZABETH
(to Gabriel)
What did he say?

Gabriel
(puzzled) 
He said that Artti came in and helped Henry outside into his car.

ELIZABETH
(sits down)
Great...what am I supposed to do...wait here?

Gabriel
Are you leaving because of what happened last night? 

ELIZABETH
(sad)
 Yes and no...I really don’t know.

Gabriel
Come on, I’ll take you back to the villa. 

EXT. BACK ALLEY
Gabriel gets on the bike and starts the engine. Elizabeth looks at him, uncertain.
 
Gabriel
(reaching for her) 
Come on..let’s go..

EXT. ROAD

We pull away from the wheels, and see the beautiful lush road. Gabriel turns around to Elizabeth, Her eyes shut tight. Gabriel grins and suddenly changes the route.  

ELIZABETH
(eyes still shut) 
Are we there yet? The road feels different.

Gabriel
Don’t worry I’ll get you there.

Elizabeth feels the bikes speed up more, she tightens her arms around Gabriel. Suddenly, the bike jumps over a little hill, then swerves left and right. She opens her eyes.

ELIZABETH
(screams) 
Where are you going?
Gabriel laughs.
 
ELIZABETH
Gabriel, this is not the way. Where are you taking me?
Gabriel ignores her and races up the hill. Every time the bike jumps, she screams and holds him tighter.

ELIZABETH
Stop at once!

Gabriel
(turns to her)
Lizzy-

ELIZABETH
(angry)
I said stop the bike.

Gabriel
(smiling)
Your eyes are open.

Elizabeth suddenly aware of the fact that she has overcome her fear, gazes at the lush nature that passes them by. 
As the wind blows into their faces, we pull away as the bike speeds up. Suddenly Gabriel slams on the brakes, fish tailing a bit and comes to a halt. 

ELIZABETH
(stepping off) 
Where are we?

Gabriel
(smiles) 
Look behind you.

ELIZABETH
You were supposed to take me back to the Villa.

Gabriel
(pointing)
Look.

EXT. THE HILLS OVER THE BAY
We see rolling hills covered with row after row of wild flowers. Blue, purple, red, violet as far as the eye can see. 

ELIZABETH
(whispers)
 The hills....
(turns to Gabriel) 
...this is the place...

Gabriel
(laughs) 
Si.

ELIZABETH
(smelling)
Lavender!

We see Gabriel walk to her, and they embrace each other. As we circle around and above them, the view become more majestic.

INT. VILLA. HOURS LATER

Front door opens up with a loud jittering sound. 

ELIZABETH
(stepping inside) Hello...Katherine...Artti?

We hear complete silence. She slowly walks up the stairs, her bedroom door wide open.

INT. GUEST BED ROOM
We see her luggage back on the bed. We see a note on top of her suitcase.

INT. NOTE

It reads, please come to the attic. Katherine.
Elizabeth is filled with suspicion.

INT. ATTIC

Standing in the dark door way, Elizabeth pushes the door open. 

ELIZABETH
(curious) 
Katherine, are you here?

We see Katherine as the doors opens wide. She is sitting on a small bench, gazing outside. The only light comes directly from the small window next to her.

LADY KATHERINE
(looks up) 
Come inside, please.
Elizabeth walks in. Katherine reaches for her hand, Elizabeth takes it.

LADY KATHERINE
Dearest Lizzy, I‘m so ashamed.

ELIZABETH
(guilty) 
I never meant to hurt you.

LADY KATHERINE
I know.

ELIZABETH
(holding her hands)
I’m so sorry for all the lies.

LADY KATHERINE
(calming her) 
Lizzy....It’s alright, really.

ELIZABETH 
(teary eyed)
It is?

LADY KATHERINE
(sighs deep)
You aren’t making this any easier for me. Please turn the light on.
Elizabeth walks to the wall and turns the switch on. As she turns around, we see many paintings scattered all over the room. After a few seconds.

ELIZABETH
(discovering) 
That’s you?

LADY KATHERINE
(Nods)
 Yes!

ELIZABETH
(stunned)
 They are all you!

We circle around the room, we see many portraits of Katherine, in a variety of erotic poses.

LADY KATHERINE

Look closely.
We see a close up of a naked Katherine, laying on the bed. Slowly we pan down to the signature.
 
ELIZABETH
(her fingers stops)
 Henry Rush, 1928!

Elizabeth Turns around staring at Katherine.

LADY KATHERINE
I did not show you these just for the shock value. As you can see Henry and I ... well we were very close once. 
Katherine gazes outside, then takes a deep breath. 

ELIZABETH
How close?

LADY KATHERINE
(bitting her lips nervously)
 We were lovers, Lizzy.

Elizabeth eyes opens up.  

ELIZABETH
(big smile) 
you and Henry...how ...when...
(serious look) 
...but you were married.

A moment of silence. Katherine lost in her thoughts. 

LADY KATHERINE
(fidgety)
 May I have one of your cigarettes?

ELIZABETH
Uhh, sure.

She reaches into her pocket and hands Katherine a cigarette, then strikes a match for her.

LADY KATHERINE
(inhaling deeply)
I haven’t had one of these in years.

Elizabeth sits beside her, waiting anxiously to hear more. Katherine takes another drag. Her eyes closed, she seems detached from reality and into another world. 

FLASH BACK:

INT. VAN HUFF MANSION LATE NIGHT
We hear loud voices, a man and woman arguing. We enter into the library. Katherine standing by the fireplace. Her husband Lord Van Huff sitting on a chair, covering his face in dismay.

LADY KATHERINE
...I’m terribly sorry Walter. 
Katherine leaves the room.

BACK TO INT. Attic

ELIZABETH
You left your husband for Henry?

LADY KATHERINE
(sad smile)
 So I thought.

ELIZABETH
What happened?
We see a close up of Katherine‘s eyes.

FLASH BACK:
INT. HENRY’S. APT. MIDNIGHT. PARIS 1929

A small door slowly opens up. We see Katherine holding a small suitcase, she walks in quietly. She places the suitcase on the floor and starts to unbutton her wet coat.  
We see lights and shadows as we enter the living room. Henry is painting, his face deeply involved as he strokes his brush on the canvas. 
We see Katherine standing in a corner, admiring him. We hear a laugh, followed by different voices, as we pan around the room, we see three naked women, entangled erotically into each other‘s bodies, posing for Henry.
We see Katherine’s smile vanish from her face, as she slowly steps back into the dark.

BACK TO THE ATTIC.
We see a tear run down Katherine’s face.

LADY KATHERINE
(gazing outside)
I just couldn’t stay.
A moment of silence. Elizabeth strokes Katherine’s hand.

ELIZABETH
You went back to Lord Huff?

LADY KATHERINE
Yes. He was a good man.
Elizabeth listening with tenderness.

ELIZABETH
And Henry?

LADY KATHERINE
(breathing deep)
It did not matter anyway, Walter became terminally sick soon after and I became a dedicated wife, Walter deserved that much from me.

ELIZABETH
(suspicious) 
Him being here is not a coincident, is it?

LADY KATHERINE
(looks away)
I supported his work...as an anonymous buyer. 

ELIZABETH
What?

LADY KATHERINE
(justifying)
He went through some hard times....he is very talented, it would have been a pity...a loss! 

ELIZABETH
So you supported him...
(frowning)
For how long?

LADY KATHERINE
(weak) 
Well...I never stopped.

Elizabeth’s eyes locked on Katherine.

LADY KATHERINE
(sighs) 
Lizzy, I told you all this because I wanted you to understand why I behaved so badly. I had no idea what an old jealous fool I have become.

ELIZABETH
(wondering) 
You thought Henry and I...?

LADY KATHERINE
I know the truth now. But it does not justify my foolish behavior.
(touches her hand)
Will you forgive me?

ELIZABETH
(pleasantly)
Forgive you? 
Katherine, being here, has been the most amazing time of my life.
Katherine peacefully smiles back at her. A few moments go by.

ELIZABETH
(inquisitive)
But why is Henry here?

LADY KATHERINE
I’d rather not talk about that.

Elizabeth stares at Katherine, analyzing her. 

ELIZABETH
Something is wrong here.
(stands up)
It just doesn’t make any sense. You haven’t told me everything...have you?

LADY KATHERINE
There’s nothing more to tell.

ELIZABETH
(pacing up and down)
You’ve seen Wuthering Heights nine times and cried every time.

LADY KATHERINE
(frowns)
What’s that suppose to mean?

ELIZABETH
It means you are in love.

LADY KATHERINE
Oh, Lizzy please. I’ve had enough self-evaluation for one day.

ELIZABETH
Did you even notice that Henry’s recent works weren’t even his?
Katherine looks at her with bewilderment.

ELIZABETH
(shaking her head)
 Doesn’t that even matter to you, Katherine?
Katherine stands up and walks toward the door.

ELIZABETH
(loudly)
You didn’t let him go...
Katherine stops frozen.

ELIZABETH
You just kept him at arm’s length.
Katherine opens the door. Elizabeth blocks her.

ELIZABETH
You figured the time would come for you to be together...

LADY KATHERINE
You are out of your mind.
Elizabeth shuts the door again.

ELIZABETH
But that wasn’t enough. You needed him to come after you.
Katherine reaches for the door again.

ELIZABETH
That would have been perfectly romantic, (with sorrow)
Oh, Katherine...

Katherine let go of the door knob and just stands there.

ELIZABETH
(mournfully) 
Except, it didn’t work out.
Katherine turns her head up, her eyes now full of tears.

LADY KATHERINE
I thought if he found out about who the buyer is-

ELIZABETH
He’ll know how much you love him.
Katherine burst into tears. Elizabeth holds her in her arms. 

LADY KATHERINE
(all choked up)
When I first found out that he was here, I was so happy. I thought, finally, we can have a life together. All the obstacles of past have long gone by....
(sadly)
But all my hope vanished as soon as I saw him.

ELIZABETH
He was indifferent?

LADY KATHERINE
He was mad, and all he cared for, was confrontation.

ELIZABETH
Did you tell him the truth?

LADY KATHERINE
It didn’t matter anymore.
He has lost his confidence, now he doesn’t even believe how talented he really is.
(sadly)
It’s too late, Lizzy. 

ELIZABETH
(pleading)
Don’t give up on him now.

She grabs on to Katherine.

ELIZABETH
What about what you told me. That things would fall into their places...remember, if you just believe in them, IT.
Katherine looking emotionally drained, opens the door and walks out.

ELIZABETH
(calling after her)
He’s still haunted by you, I thought, you should know that.

INT. HENRY’S COTTAGE. NIGHT

We see Henry, laying on his bed, eyes shut. We pull back to see a woman sitting beside him, it’s Katherine. He slowly opens his eyes. He looks weak but his expression softens as he sees Katherine.

HENRY
(surprised)
Katherine?

LADY KATHERINE
(smiling at him) 
How are you feeling?

HENRY
(rubbing his sore jaw)
How long have I been out?

LADY KATHERINE
Don’t worry about that, just lay still.

HENRY
(suspicious) 
Why are you here?

LADY KATHERINE
I thought perhaps...to see if you needed anything.

HENRY
(confused)
I feel like shit but that’s not your problem.
He sits up in his bed, looking around. She reaches over and offers him a glass.

HENRY
What’s this?

LADY KATHERINE
It’s water.

HENRY
(pushes it away) 
Why are you here?

Katherine just stares at him, seeking for the right words.

LADY KATHERINE
I want to make things right. 

HENRY
(looks up)
You want! 
(sarcasm) 
Haven’t you done enough already?  

LADY KATHERINE 
I might have bungled a lot of things, but I had reasons....
Henry gets out of his bed. Wiping at the dried blood on his mouth.

HENRY
(heated)
There are Reasons?

LADY KATHERINE
I want to tell you the truth, Henry.
HENRY
(shrieks)
What truth would that be, Katherine?

LADY KATHERINE
Shut up for once and just listen to me...

Henry, frustrated rubs his forehead.

HENRY
(shouts)
All these years, I fooled myself to believe that people actually liked my work, 
(deep sigh)
That it meant something to someone...what an idiot I’ve been! 

LADY KATHERINE
Please, don’t say that. 

HENRY
(smirks)
Ever since I met you, you made a fool, out of me, my work...and my life. Now you want to make peace, go to hell.

LADY KATHERINE
That’s not true and you know it.

HENRY
You know Katherine, it’s hard to accept truth from a woman who doesn’t even have enough guts, 
to let her lover know, that she’s never coming back. 
Henry grabs a bottle and takes a chug, spilling it down his blood stained shirt. Katherine just stares at him.

LADY KATHERINE
I did what I thought was the best thing for all of us.

HENRY
For all of us, or for you?

LADY KATHERINE
(shaken)
God knows, leaving you was the hardest thing I ever had to do. 

HENRY
But you did it anyway.
(louder)
What, you figured I couldn’t provide for you the way you were accustomed to-

LADY KATHERINE
(nodding her head) 
No-

HENRY
Or that I would have embarrassed you in front of your high class friends.... 

ELIZABETH
(emotional)
No...

HENRY
Then why did you leave me like that?
Then he grabs Katherine and start shaking her.

HENRY
(shouts)
Why?

LADY KATHERINE
(slaps him)
Stop it!
In a moment of madness, he raises his fist and smashes it in the wall. The bone makes an awful cracking sound. 

LADY KATHERINE
(in horror) 
Henry...
Henry anguishing from pain.

HENRY
(cries)
What do you want from me?
Katherine collapses down on the floor, tears running down her face.

LADY KATHERINE
I left because...
(mumbles) 
I...couldn’t... stand losing you to another woman...even the thought of it, made me sick...that’s why...

God damn it, Henry, I’m trying to tell you that I LOVE YOU, I’VE ALWAYS LOVED YOU!  
A sudden silence. Henry leans back on the wall. An intense moment goes by, Henry stares into Katherine’s eyes. Suddenly he grabs her and pulls her into his arms and kisses her deeply. We pan away as Henry and Katherine are embraced in a kiss, many years hidden, now revealed between them. Fade out.

FADE IN: MORNING. EXT. BEACH ROAD. 
We see Elizabeth pacing up and down, anxiously.

ELIZABETH
(to Gabriel)
Are you sure this is the only road?

GABRIEL
Yes. Relax...you’re driving me crazy. 

ELIZABETH
(restless)
Do you think they’ve left already?

GABRIEL
(shrugs)
 I don’t know...

ELIZABETH
You don’t know, what do you mean you don’t know...

GABRIEL
Lizzy, please!

ELIZABETH
I have to talk to him...I must.

GABRIEL
(looking away)
Shush... quiet....I think a car is coming... Hide... hurry!
They both run behind the bushes. Gabriel whistles to an old man on the road herding his sheep. We see a car pass them and comes to a halt.

INT.CAR
We see Herr Hauber as he rolls down his window. The road is blocked by a large herd of sheep. 
EXT. CAR
Herr Hauber gets out of the car and approaches the old man some twenty yards away. They are arguing. We see the old man begin herding his sheep down the road cursing at Herr Hauber. Herr Hauber, enraged follows him down the road, yelling at the old man.

ELIZABETH
Crawling out from the bushes sneaks up to the side of the car and knocks on the half-open window.

HANS
(rolling the window down) 
Lizzy...my father must not see you here.

GABRIEL
(to Hans) 
Don’t worry kid, I took care of that.

HANS
(to Elizabeth) 
What are you doing here?

ELIZABETH
Do you think I was going to let you go without saying goodbye.

HANS
Do I ever see you again?

ELIZABETH
(faking a smile)
Yes, of course.
Hans smiles back.

ELIZABETH
(emotionally) 
Remember, no matter what happens, just trust your own heart...and you have a good heart Hans.
Gabriel peeks out from the bushes.
Gabriel
(all worried)
Come on you two. 

HANS
I will miss you Lizzy.

ELIZABETH
(choking on her tears) 
I’ll miss you too.
(embracing him)
I will never forget you. 
Hans wipes his tears with his sleeves.

GABRIEL
(to them)
 We have to go now. He’s coming...

ELIZABETH
(Digs in her pocket)
I have something for you.

GABRIEL
I’ll see ya’ around kid!
The boy waves goodbye, Elizabeth takes a step away but then rushes back to the car.

ELIZABETH
I almost forgot !
Elizabeth grabs his small face and kisses him on his lips. His eyes sparkle in joy. Elizabeth and Gabriel hide in bushes as Herr Hauber approaches the car.
INT. CAR. FEW SECONDS LATER
We see Hans, opening the card Lizzy handed him. We see a photo inside.
C.U. PHOTO
We see a wrinkled black and white picture of Lizzy, in her school uniform. We see red hand-writing on it:
To my dearest Hans,
Be safe.
Love always,
Lizzy

CUT TO:
We are flying low over the waters of the Mediterranean, moving ever closer towards the shore as a couple in the distance walk along the beach. As we slowly pass over them, we see it is Henry and Katherine holding hands. As we sweep up and over the rocky cliffs and across the beautiful fields, we come to rest on Lizzy standing on the villa’s terrace, looking out at Henry and Katherine.

ELIZABETH
(V.O.)
As I stood there, on that lazy summer afternoon, I witnessed that love can always find its way...
Elizabeth smiling, turns back and joins Artti and Gabriel on the terrace.  

ELIZABETH
(V.O.)
...and friendship can transpire against all odds..and remain alive and real in our hearts 
... as long as we can dream, anything is possible, no matter how uncertain and cruel the future may be...
(pause)

We pass by them, through the terrace doors and into the living room. As 
we move inside, we hear the voice on the radio growing louder. 

ELIZABETH
(V.O)That was the last time I saw my dear friends, in that lazy perfect summer afternoon.
We come to rest on the front of the radio as we recognize the voice, that of Hitler’s.(fade out)

(Fade in)
LONDON. 1964 UNIVERSITY HALL.
We see a matured Elizabeth standing behind the podium. She gently takes her glasses off and set them down on her notes. Then she raises her head looking straight at her audience.

ELIZABETH
I hope, I didn’t disappoint you because I never made it to Hollywood...Being here among my students, my colleagues and my mentors, is all I could have ever dreamed of...Of course, until the call from the studio comes through...
We hear the audience laugh.

ELIZABETH
(smiling) 
Thank you.
The cheer of the audience echoes in the hall. Soon a crowd gathers around Elizabeth. We see a man pushes through to the podium and whispers into her ear.

THE MAN
We must go now.

ELIZABETH
(to her husband)
Why...where?
Her husband, John, a tall charming Scottish man, grabs Elizabeth’s hand and pulls her away firmly.

ELIZABETH
John...wait..I have to talk to the Dean.

JOHN
He can wait.

ELIZABETH
What’s the rush?

JOHN
You’ll never believe this.

John pushes through among the moving crowd. The whole commotion makes Elizabeth laugh. They make it through a different hallway toward an exit door. John opens the door and they get outside.
EXT. SIDE STREET
Elizabeth still laughing out loud, turns to her husband.
ELIZABETH
Alright..you got my attention...Where is the fire?
Suddenly we hear a voice behind her.

VOICE
Hello Lizzy...
Elizabeth turns toward a tall slim man standing at the corner. 

THE MAN
It’s me...Hans!
Elizabeth eyes widen up. She turns back to John for confirmation.

JOHN
Surprise!
Standing there motionless, a tear runs down her cheek. 

ELIZABETH
(shaky voice)
Hans?
Her face in a wrinkled frown, her eyes full of tears. Slowly, she begins to recognize her old friend, in the man standing in front of her. She steps toward him and in one fast move, she pulls him into her arms.

ELIZABETH
Oh my god...it is you...
(teary eyes) 
I don’t know what to say...

HANS
(excited)
JA...me too.
John walks to Hans.

JOHN
(to Hans)
I will hold you a cab, mate.

HANS
(nods) 
JA...Thank you.

ELIZABETH
You are not leaving now?

HANS
I’m sorry Lizzy...I know this does not give us much time...

ELIZABETH
(frantic)
No...you can’t...we have much to talk about...I have millions of questions to ask you...I mean for god’s sake...how did you even find me?

HANS
(looks at John)
 Ask him...
Elizabeth glances at her husband with questioning eyes. 

ELIZABETH
I had no idea...
HANS
It’s a miracle that I got his note this morning...I could not leave without seeing you first.

ELIZABETH
 You are alright, yes...

HANS
Yes...I survived Lizzy.
(checks the time)
I better go now before I miss my flight, I have scheduled surgery in Vienna...but I’ll come back...

ELIZABETH
(smiles proudly)you are a surgeon.

HANS
Yes, the midget became a doctor instead.
Elizabeth grabs his hands.

ELIZABETH
I thought I lost you ....

HANS
And the others…

ELIZABETH
(sad look) no.

HANS
I’m sorry Lizzy.
They Walk to John, he is holding the cab door open, Hans gets inside. 

HANS
(rolling the window)
We meet again...JA!

ELIZABETH
(confidently)
 Yes...we will.

HANS
Oh One more thing...Can you sign this for me...
Hans pulls a copy of her book from his briefcase and hands it to her. As soon as she opens the book, an old picture falls out. She picks it up from the wet asphalt. She recognizes her old photo. A tear drops from Lizzy’s cheeks, all the emotion from past memories rushes back to her. The faces of her old friends, Katherine, Artti, Henry and Gabriel flashes in front of her, just as she saw them last. She hurries and signs the book. She hands it back to hans, they exchange a meaningful look. John closes the door. They wave as the cab pulls away. 

ELIZABETH
(turns to John)
Thank you.
John comes to her and embrace her deeply into his arms. 

THE END.