This screenplay is copyrighted to its author. All rights reserved. 
This screenplay may not be used or reproduced without the express 
written permission of the author.

FADE IN

INT. ANTIQUE BOOK STORE, NEW ORLEANS, LA - DAY

MOIRA DUNN stands before a tall shelf loaded with hundreds of antique 
books. She's a librarian type, plain Jane, mid twenties, with dark 
rimmed glasses, straight brown hair, clothes too large and 
unflattering, and no make-up.

The book store is wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling books, with a few 
tables in the middle of the room. On one side is a rundown cashier 
counter. A small window unit air conditioner sits in one of the 
windows. It's old and makes an irritating noise. The store isn't overly 
dim, but it's dreary regardless.

Moira stands on a rolling ladder, that slides along the book shelves, 
dusting the edges of the books, with a feather duster. She climbs down 
the ladder and begins to align books that are jutting out.

In a few moments, HENRY, a small round man with a bald head and crooked 
glasses walks in the store. Henry is a native New Orleans resident, and 
speaks with a heavy Cajun accent.

A cow bell clanks against the wood door, signaling his arrival. He 
pulls out a handkerchief and wipes sweat from his face and neck.

HENRY

Oh my God; it's hot out there, yeah.

Moira turns and smiles at him.

MOIRA

Hey, Henry. Anything good at the estate sale?

HENRY

Yeah. Got a couple of boxes out of old lady Richard. Rest her soul. 
Stella sure got a strange taste for readin' though.

MOIRA

I can imagine. You know people said she was a witch - heavy into 
Voodoo.

Moira finishes tucking the stray books back in place, and walks up to 
Henry. She notices he looks a little flushed.

MOIRA

Henry; how many times have I told you not to go out in the middle of 
the day? It's too hot and humid out there.

HENRY

You trying to say I'm gettin' old, Cher?

MOIRA

No, but that raggedy truck is. When you gonna break down and get the 
air fixed? Better yet, get a new vehicle. It's on its last leg anyway.

HENRY

God willing Moira, business will pick up and I just might do that.

Moira tips her head sideways, leering at him.

MOIRA

Sure you will.

Henry turns and grabs the door knob, about to head outside, and still 
wiping sweat from his red face.

HENRY

Well, let's start unpacking. Can't sell 'em unless people can see 'em.

Moira places a hand on the door, preventing him from opening it.

MOIRA

I'll get the boxes. You go sit in front of the air for a minute - cool 
off.

HENRY

Damn Moira, you're worse than my wife was. All the time trying to 
Mother Hen.

Moira stands with her hand firmly planted on the door. She looks around 
and whistles, letting him know he's not about to get past her.

Henry drops his shoulders, defeated. She watches him grab a chair and 
move it in front of the air conditioner. He glances at her in mock 
aggravation, as if he's doing it just to shut her up. Henry closes his 
eyes, enjoying the breeze.

Moira opens the door and heads outside to get the boxes.

EXT. FRENCH QUARTER STREET - MOMENTS LATER

The street is lined with charming old buildings. Many of them have 
balconies and several are painted in bright, festive colors. People 
mill about, staring into store windows. Some, who are obviously 
tourists, have their heads buried in New Orleans street maps.

Henry's old truck is parked right in front of the store. It's more rust 
than paint and one of the side view mirrors is hanging down, barely 
holding on.

Moira thumbs through the books in the top of the three boxes, then 
reaches into the back of the truck. She lifts a heavy box of the books 
onto the edge of the tailgate.

She balances it with one hand and it teeters precariously as she rifles 
through it with the other hand.

She's not looking too happy with what she sees inside. A lot of the 
books are in really bad shape, with damaged covers and loose pages.

Moira roughly drops one of the raggedy books into the box, runs a hand 
through her hair and sighs.

She heads into the store, carrying one of the heavy boxes.

INT. ANTIQUE BOOK STORE - HOURS LATER

Henry is behind the counter, counting up the store's sales for the day. 
He looks disgusted as he slams the register drawer.

Moira is sitting on the floor, unpacking the last of the boxes of 
books. She notices Henry's displeased with what's in the register, but 
when his eyes meet hers, she quickly turns away.

HENRY

We gonna have to wait on the rent.

Moira glances at him with sympathy.

MOIRA

I've got some money saved up if you...

Henry holds up one hand and cuts her off.

HENRY

No girl. You better save that money. I can barely pay you either.

Moira goes back to unpacking the books. She pulls one out of the box 
and stares at it.

The cover has no title, nor does the spine of the book. There's just a 
strange symbol, a funny looking star inside a circle, with nature 
elements around it. It's unlike anything Moira has ever seen. The book 
is really old, ragged, and very dusty.

Henry stuffs the small amount of cash into a bank bag and glances at a 
clock on the wall. It's 5:15. He heads for the front door.

HENRY

Gotta make it to the bank before they close. You stayin' late again?

Moira blows the dust off of the book with the strange symbol, and is 
just opening it. She doesn't look at him.

MOIRA

Just a few minutes. I'll lock up.

Henry pauses before he steps outside. He crosses his arms over his 
chest for a moment, thinking. He points the end of the bank bag at her.

HENRY

You know you always comin' in early and leavin' late. How you ever 
gonna find a nice man to marry up with?

Moira closes the book and grins at Henry.

MOIRA

Now why do I need to get married when I have you to take care of?

HENRY

Oh, Cher... If I was 40 years younger, you know.

Moira rolls her eyes and shakes her head.

MOIRA

You're all talk Henry.

He grins at her and walks out the door. She hears the truck cough a 
couple of times, and then crank. It sounds like it is indeed on its 
last leg.

Moira opens the book again, and settles back onto her butt to inspect 
it. Some of the pages are no longer attached and are sitting in the 
book, loose.

She has a puzzled look on her face as she reads it. The print is not 
type face, but looks as if it was written by an old fashioned quill 
pen. It's clearly quite antique and appears to be some sort of journal.

She flips through the pages, which have recipes for all sorts of spells 
and incantations. After a few moments, she flips to a page that denotes 
a love spell.

At that moment, she hears the loud laughter of a man, coming down the 
street in front of the store. She jumps up, recognizing the laughter, 
and heads for the front door. On her way out, she quickly grabs a towel 
from the counter.

EXT. FRENCH QUARTER STREET - EVENING

Moira steps out, and begins to wipe down the store window.

She glances down the street sidewalk and sees RYAN DUPUIS, an 
extraordinarily handsome young man in his late twenties. He's dressed 
to the hilt, and every dark, shiny hair is in its place.

On his arm is an early twenties WOMAN, who looks like she just stepped 
off the cover of Cosmo.

Ryan and his date are talking and laughing and the girl is hanging on 
him as though she just can't get close enough. The girl is on the 
inside of the sidewalk, closest to Moira.

Moira turns toward Ryan, and steps out a little as they approach her. 
She smiles brightly and brushes one of many stray clumps of hair out of 
her eyes.

MOIRA

Hi, Ryan.

Ryan tips his chin at her to acknowledge her. As the date passes by 
Moira, she leers at her and tosses her super sprayed hair over her 
shoulder.

The young woman's hair swats Moira in the face.

Moira narrows her eyes and watches with envy as they walk away, still 
laughing and enjoying themselves.

She steps back inside the store.

INT. BOOK STORE

Moira goes over to the box on the floor. It now has very few books in 
it. She holds the spell book under her arm,  takes the box behind the 
counter and leaves it on the floor. She steps outside and heads away 
from the store.

EXT. FRENCH QUARTER STREET - EARLY EVENING

The street lights are on, though it's not that dark yet. She walks down 
the sidewalk, passing vendors who set up small tables. The vendors are 
selling watches, Voodoo dolls, various trinkets and charms such as 
candles, sticks of incense, costume jewelry, New Orleans shot glasses, 
etc. She walks past several of them, but doesn't slow down to peek at 
the merchandise.

A STREET VENDOR, a black man in his sixties with bloodshot eyes, breath 
smelling of strong liquor, and a mop of hair badly in need of a good 
brushing, grabs her by the arm, trying to pull her over to his table.

STREET VENDOR

Come see. Come see what Jessie got for you.

Moira looks simply horrified. She's too afraid to pull her arm away. 
She looks around, but very few people are close enough to yell to for 
help. She pulls against the man gently.

MOIRA

No... I'm not looking for anything tonight; thanks.

The vendor grips her arm tighter and reaches over to his table. Her 
purse slips off of her shoulder and dangles at her other wrist. He 
grabs a bracelet, with crawfish and Tabasco bottle charms all around 
it.

STREET VENDOR

Only four dollars.

He lays it against the skin of her wrist.

STREET VENDOR

See? All women love jewelry. It makes you feel pretty, yeah?

Moira shrinks away from him. Just as a couple of people come near them 
on the sidewalk, she summons up the courage to yank her arm away.

MOIRA

I feel pretty enough!

She steps further away from him and takes a deep breath.

MOIRA

I said no thanks.

The vendor looks at her, a little shocked by her attitude. Then he 
starts to laugh. He's really cackling.

Moira is confused about what he could possibly find so funny.

STREET VENDOR

You? You pretty enough huh?

He continues to laugh, and the people who were walking up the sidewalk 
laugh at her too.

Moira's lip quivers. The humiliation is unbearable, and she's holding 
back tears. She turns and quickly trots away.

In a few moments, she passes TWO YOUNG BLACK BOYS tap dancing on the 
sidewalk. In front of them is a rusty, worn out cooking pot, with a few 
dollars and some change inside.

The boys are giving it all they've got. They're sweaty and out of 
breath. One of them is around ten and the other slightly older.

Moira stops to watch them for a few moments. The tap shoes are actually 
just regular boots, with bottle caps imbedded into the toe and heel of 
the boots.

One of the boys' bottle caps is getting loose, so he sits down, presses 
it back in, then stomps his foot on the ground a couple of times.

He goes back to dancing next to the other boy. Moira digs her wallet 
out of her purse. The boys start dancing even more furiously. She takes 
out a five dollar bill slowly, so they can see what it is.

The oldest boy smiles at her and she smiles back. She drops the money 
into the pot, watches for a few more moments, then continues down the 
sidewalk.

EXT. PRIOLA'S RESTAURANT, NEW ORLEANS - EVENING

Moira stops and leans her hand against the outside wall. She places the 
spell book on the window ledge. She removes one of her low heeled pumps 
and rubs her aching foot.

MOIRA

Ughhh... I really gotta buy a car.

She glances inside the front window of the restaurant and sees Ryan and 
his date at a table. They're sipping on drinks and holding hands on the 
table.

Moira watches their every move. Ryan leans over to his date and kisses 
her. She smiles and runs her fingers, adorned with beautiful, long 
painted nails, across his face.

Moira stares forlornly through the window. She mumbles to herself.

MOIRA

This one won't work out either. When are you ever gonna learn?

Moira looks at her reflection in the glass of the restaurant and does 
her best to smooth her unruly hair. She straightens her skirt and steps 
inside the restaurant.

INT. PRIOLA'S RESTAURANT - MOMENTS LATER

The restaurant is very pristine. It's nice, but not fancy.  Some diners 
are dressed up, others are quite casual. A few real seafood critters 
hang on the wall - a net with some crawfish strung across it, two huge 
lobsters that appear to be fighting, a mounted catfish that easily 
would have weighed thirty pounds. The table cloths are white and the 
floors impeccably clean and shiny.

The seating host is busy trying to find seats for a large family, so 
she slips right past him and heads straight for Ryan's table.

Ryan's date notices her, while his back is to her. The date whispers to 
Ryan.

DATE

Ryan, it's that girl from the book store.

Ryan furrows his brows at his date, as if he doesn't believe her. He 
turns to look over his shoulder.

Moira smiles at him as she approaches.

MOIRA

Hi. I saw you when I was passing.

Ryan sighs in aggravation.

RYAN

Hey Moira.

Moira looks rather pleased that her name just passed his lips.

Ryan is a bit uncomfortable, unsure of what to say.

RYAN

This is Carla. Carla - Moira. She lives in my building.

Moira holds out her hand to Carla. Carla just barely touches the tips 
of her fingers and shakes them. Moira glares at her for a second, then 
turns her attention to Ryan.

MOIRA

I just wanted to tell you Mrs. LeBlanc is going out of town for a while 
- sick family member or something. She asked me to look after the 
place.

RYAN

Well I appreciate that Moira, but she already told me.

MOIRA

Oh... well okay.

Moira nods her head and just stares at Ryan, making him even more 
uncomfortable. He glances at Carla, giving her a look like he'd love it 
if Moira would just go away.

Ryan glances at the book under Moira's arm, and when she grips it 
tighter against her ribs, he just gives her a "you're weird" look.

He waits patiently for Moira to leave, but she doesn't. She seems all 
too happy to just stand staring at him.

RYAN

Well... see ya later.

MOIRA

Oh... right. Sorry. I'll let you get back to your dinner. It was nice 
to meet you Carla.

Carla has just brought her glass of wine to her lips, so she just waves 
quickly with the other hand.

Moira walks out of the restaurant, somewhat defeated. She steps out 
onto the darkening street.

EXT. FRENCH QUARTER STREET - CONTINUOUS

Moira mumbles to herself as she walks away, the restaurant fading into 
the distance.

MOIRA

One day Ryan; you'll see it's me who loves you. Me... not her.

EXT. ANTEBELLUM STYLE BOARDING HOUSE - NIGHT

The name on the mailbox reads: "LeBlanc".

Moira is making her way through the gate and up the brick walkway to 
the steps of the beautiful, old, three story house. The lower part of 
the house is surrounded by a concrete retaining wall, indicating it 
must have a basement.

Many of the other houses on the street are similar, but this is one of 
the largest and externally best kept. Lights are on downstairs, but 
it's all dark in the upper floors.

Moira puts her key in the lock and opens the door.

INT. BOARDING HOUSE

The house is decorated with a Victorian flare, dark carpets and rich 
wallpaper. It's clean and homey.

An old woman, with solid gray hair, is asleep in a chair in the living 
room while a television plays.

Moira creeps past her up a large, ornate wooden staircase ornate.

INT. MOIRA'S APARTMENT - MOMENTS LATER

A one-room apartment it is set up like an efficiency, with the bed 
separated from the rest of the room by a folding divider and is 
decorated as one would expect for a young woman, lots of floral and 
fluffy things, large pillows on the sofa and a few plants and flowers 
here and there.

Moira, now in her night clothes, a pair of pajama pants, and an 
oversized T-shirt, has a cup in her hand as she makes her way from the 
small kitchen area to the sofa. She picks up a women's magazine and one 
of the feature articles is "How to Make Him Notice You".

She settles down on the sofa, with her legs folded beneath her, and 
opens the magazine, flipping to the article. She reads it for a few 
moments, sipping on the liquid in her cup.

She grins.

MOIRA

Offer to help him do something he's been procrastinating. Tried that. 
Bake something yummy and leave it by his door. Hmmm.... probably just 
throw it away. Offer to watch his pet while he's away.

She grabs a pen from a nearby end table and circles that part of the 
article.

It isn't long before she gets bored with magazine. The book of spells 
seems to be calling to her from the coffee table.

She leans down and picks it up, then runs her fingers over the strange 
symbol on the cover.

She opens the book, and quickly becomes engrossed. Her eyes scan the 
pages. She turns them quickly, eager to read what's next.

Her eyes widen. She holds the book close to her face and reads aloud.

MOIRA

Spells for Love...

Moira giggles sarcastically - not convinced any of it's for real.

MOIRA

For this spell you must have seven smooth stones, three candles, one 
pink, one blue, and one red, a dove and a ceremonial bowl. Lay a white 
cloth...

There's a sudden knock on her door.

Moira jumps. The book flies out of her hand onto the floor.

She puts a hand to her heart and rises to answer the door.

She flings it open to see the gray-haired woman from downstairs, Mrs. 
LeBlanc, standing at the door poised to knock again.

MRS. LEBLANC

Hello, honey. I didn't see you come in so wasn't sure you were home.

MOIRA

Yes ma'am. How you doin'?

MRS. LEBLANC

Oh you know...can't complain. Just wanted to leave the keys with you. 
Me and Sister'll be leavin' in the mornin' – early.

The old woman hands Moira a large key ring with multiple keys on it. 
Mrs. LeBlanc leans over, points to the keys.

MRS. LEBLANC

They're all labeled. See?

Moira takes a closer look. Among them are keys labeled, "basement" and 
"Ryan".

MRS. LEBLANC

Now, I talked to Ryan already and he said he'd be glad to help you if 
somethin' needs doin' around the house.

Moira is visibly pleased at the thought, and gets a dreamy eyed look on 
her face.

MOIRA

He's nice that way. Isn't he?

MRS. LEBLANC

He sure enough is. I'm gonna miss him when he's gone.

Moira's face is suddenly cloaked in shock. Mrs. LeBlanc notices, and 
looks a confused by Moira's reaction.

MOIRA

What?

MRS. LEBLANC

He gave his notice this week - be movin' out the end of the month.

MOIRA

No... he can't.

Moira's voice trials off to whisper.

MRS. LEBLANC

What was that, dear?

Moira recovers and gives the old woman a weak smile.

MOIRA

Nothing. Don't worry. I'll take good care of things.

Mrs. LeBlanc turns to leave, gives Moira a backward wave.

As she descends the steps she calls back.

MRS. LEBLANC

We'll see you in three weeks.

Moira leans against the door frame. Her face is a mask of misery.

She looks down at the key ring in her hand and fingers the one labeled 
"Ryan". Then her eyes wander over to the book of spells on the floor.

It's clear that an idea is forming in her head - an idea that brings a 
smile to her face.

INT. BOARDING HOUSE, DINING ROOM – MORNING

There's a huge table, seating for eight, with a lace table runner 
extending from one end to the other. A pair of ornate candlesticks, 
with tall candles sit in the center of the table, unlit. The walls are 
papered in a busy print of roses and ivy. A ceiling fan sways slightly, 
blowing a soft breeze through the room.

Moira lays out a full breakfast for two: eggs, bacon, grits, biscuits – 
the works, all on Mrs. LeBlanc's best china.

Moira hears footsteps on the stairs. She lurches from behind the table 
and enters the foyer.

INT. FOYER

She's just in time catch Ryan before he leaves. He's  handsome in a 
suit, ready for work.

He forces a smile.

MOIRA

Good morning, Ryan.

She points in the direction of the dining room.

MOIRA

I've made breakfast.

Ryan glances inside at the spread. His eyes shift back to Moira.

RYAN

You shouldn't have gone to the trouble.

He shifts, uncomfortable, then moves toward the front door.

He pauses with his hand on the door knob, turns back, eyes straying 
everywhere but at Moira's face.

RYAN

I'll be eatin' my meals out while Mrs. LeBlanc's gone.

Moira steps toward him. He turns the knob and shuts the door hard 
behind him - almost slamming it in her face.

Awash with disappointment, Moira's face crumbles as she stands staring 
at the closed door.

INT. ANTIQUE BOOK STORE – AFTERNOON

Moira sits at one of the tables, with a stack of antique books in front 
of her. She's jotting down information about the books on a note pad, 
while she thumbs through an antique book value guide.

Henry stands behind the counter, ringing up a sale. As the customer 
leaves he calls out.

HENRY

Thank you. Come back now, real soon.

Henry smiles down at the register, then looks at Moira.

HENRY

That was a big one, Moira.  Near 'bout four hundred dollars.

Moira doesn't look at him. She's intent on the task in front of her.

MOIRA

Uh huh.

Henry turns and looks at the clock behind him.

HENRY

Ewwee, this day done gone like the wind. It's almost closin' time, 
yeah.

This gets Moira's attention. Her head jerks up, eyes on the clock.

She stands and walks quickly over to the counter. She reaches down 
behind it, to grab her purse.

MOIRA

I've gotta run Henry. You're gonna have to close up without me.

Henry narrows his eyes and grins.

HENRY

What you got - a hot date, Cher?

Moira glances back at him, her face reddens.

MOIRA

No.  I'm just... gonna catch up on my readin'.

Henry shakes his head.

HENRY

It's only so much fun you can get outta a book, ya know.

Moira heads toward the door. She mutters under her breath.

MOIRA

We'll see...

(to Henry)

Bye!

INT. VOODOO APOTHECARY – LATER

The inner sanctum of the Voodoo Apothecary is dark and shadowy. The 
scent of incense and exotic spices fills the air. A shop that caters to 
both the tourist and the serious voodoo practitioner; the Voodoo 
Apothecary has it all.

Moira passes down the aisles examining candles of every color, handmade 
cloth voodoo dolls, voodoo gods and goddesses in plaster effigy, and 
potions and powders for all uses.

A wiry black woman, BESSIE LAPIERRE (60's) watches Moira from across 
the store. She has a basket on her arm, placing items inside.

Moira picks candles of pink, red and blue, some smooth stones, and a 
white satin cloth. Bessie sidles up to her, a smile on her wrinkled 
face.

BESSIE

You believe in magic now do ya', child?

Moira jumps, startled by the woman's intrusion.

MOIRA

Yes... I guess. Actually I'm just learning.

Bessie pokes a gnarled finger around in Moira's basket.

BESSIE

Looks like the makin's of a love spell to me. You be careful you do it 
right girl. The magic ain't nothin' to be playin' around with, no.

Moira stares at her, a bit dismayed by Bessie's assumption.

She skirts around Bessie quickly, and heads for the cashier counter.

A tall, thin, black male CASHIER totals the bill.

Moira walks down the length of the counter, eyeballing the jars that 
sit all along it. There are strange contents: frogs, small lizards, 
chicken feet, chicken heads, alligator claws, and some things that 
Moira can't quite make out, floating about in cloudy liquid.

The black man watches Moira out of the corner of his eye, grinning when 
her face screws up at the stuff in the jars.

CASHIER

Sure you don't need no gator egg today? Maybe some lizard tail or 
chicken foot?

Moira looks at him, horrified. She shakes her head.

He laughs, and Bessie wanders over, just in time to laugh along with 
him.

Moira quickly withdraws a twenty dollar bill from her purse and shoves 
it at the cashier. The second he gives her change and her bagged items, 
Moira rushes toward the door.

She hears their laughter, and turns back to look over her shoulder at 
Bessie.

BESSIE

Don't go gettin' yourself in trouble now. You need some help with that 
spell, you let me know.

EXT. VOODOO APOTHECARY – MOMENTS LATER

Moira hurries out of the shop with a large bag clutched in her hand.

She rushes down the street almost at a trot, glancing at her watch, 
muttering something unintelligible.

EXT. NEIGHBORHOOD STREET - LATER

She crosses the street to the boarding house and takes the steps two at 
a time to the front door.

INT. BOARDING HOUSE

The house is unusually quiet. Moira's shoes echo in the emptiness as 
she climbs the stairs.

ON THE LANDING

She pauses, listening, then steps up to the door across from hers – 
Ryan's rooms.

At Ryan's door she tucks the bag under her arm. With shaky hands she 
pulls the key ring Mrs. LeBlanc gave her, out of her purse.

With a quick glance around she chooses the one labeled "Ryan", sticks 
it in the lock and steps through the door.

INT. RYAN'S APT.

Moira locks the door behind her.

Light from the windows illuminates the room.  Moira stands a moment; in 
awe to be surrounded by Ryan's personal things.

The room is masculine, and like Moira's it's an efficiency. Ryan's bed 
is in the center of the room. A small chest of drawers stands against 
the wall near the bathroom, a cedar box rests atop the chest of 
drawers.

By the window is a chair and table. In the corner a large antique 
wardrobe, with its doors swung open, sits against the wall. Ties with 
various prints are draped over one of the doors in a haphazard way.

Momentarily forgetting the time, Moira sets the bag and her purse on 
Ryan's unmade bed. She picks up his pillow and presses it against her 
nose, breathing his scent in deeply.

She moves toward the wardrobe, slips one of the ties off the door and 
brushes it up against her cheek.

She replaces the tie and moves toward the chest of drawers.

INT. BOARDING HOUSE, DOWNSTAIRS - SAME

The front door opens. Ryan steps through to the foyer, trailing a 
puppy, just a few months old, on a leash. It's an unusual looking 
puppy, part wolf, part German Shepard.

The puppy wanders across the foyer, sniffing as the baseboards, 
corners, and furniture.

INT. RYAN'S APT.

Moira opens the cedar box and fingers the items inside a moment.

She chooses a gold tie clip, slips it in her pocket.

From there she moves to the bed where she runs her hand lovingly across 
the rumpled sheets.

INT. BOARDING HOUSE, STAIRWAY

Ryan is making his way up the stairs, the puppy's feet tapping against 
the wood. He pulls out his keys.

INT. RYAN'S APARTMENT

Moira hears the footsteps, and the puppy's whimpering. She jerks up, 
alert, listening.

She twists around, looking for an escape route.

There is none. She hears Ryan's footsteps, now closer to the door.

Moira falls to her knees and starts to crawl under the bed. Her eyes 
widen at the sound of a key turning in the lock.

Her eyes fly to her purse and the voodoo shop bag. She whispers to 
herself.

MOIRA

Shit.

She quickly yanks both the bag and her purse off and pulls them under 
the bed with her.

Ryan opens the door to his apartment, looks around, his brows furrow as 
if he's heard a suspicious noise.

He holds the puppy's leash taught, while the puppy tries to check out 
the room.

Ryan ties the leash to the door knob. He takes his shoes off by the 
door.

Seeing nothing out of the ordinary, Ryan walks across the room, empties 
his pockets on to the top of the chest of drawers.

Moira sees his shoes from her hiding place, and the puppy. Her eyes are 
wide.

The puppy spots Moira under the bed. It starts to whimper and bark. 
Then it goes for the bed.

Moira is just out of its reach.

The old mattress creaks and sags above Moira, as Ryan sits down on it.

He removes his socks. They fall to the floor. The bed creaks again as 
he stands. His pants fall to the floor in a pile.

The puppy is interested in one of Ryan's socks, grabs it, and starts 
playing with it.

A few seconds later, the puppy lays his head on the floor, staring 
under the bed at Moira and whimpering.

Moira is scared stiff, her breathing short and choppy.

Ryan lifts his pants from the floor, lays them across the bed neatly. 
He takes off his shirt and does the same.

He reaches down and pats the puppy on the head.

RYAN

What are you so interested in under there boy?

He lifts the dog off the floor and cradles it like a baby. He pets it 
for a few minutes, the puppy trying to gnaw on his hands.

He sets it back down on the floor. The puppy stares up at him, tail 
wagging and tongue hanging out, ready to play.

Ryan points a finger at the puppy.

RYAN

Now you be a good boy and don't go chewing up the furniture.

The puppy barks at him.

Moira is nearly cross-eyed from fear and excitement. She watches Ryan's 
bare feet pad across the room to the bathroom.

The puppy follows, but is soon snapped back by the leash around its 
neck.

The door to the bathroom swings closed.

Only when Moira hears the shower running, does she allow herself to 
breathe easier.

She climbs stealthily from under the bed, clutching her bag and purse.

The puppy barks loudly now, jumping around and nipping at her ankles. 
Moira places a finger at her lips trying to hush him, but to no avail.

She opens the door, just wide enough to slip through. The puppy tries 
to get out, and Moira has to shove it back inside.

She lets herself out of the apartment quietly, into the:

HALLWAY

Moira steps across to her apartment. Before letting herself in, she 
leans against the door frame to catch her breath.

She unlocks her door.

INT. MOIRA'S APARTMENT

Moira checks her watch, she's anxious to get started on the spell but 
she must wait until full dark.

She stashes her bag in a cabinet, then leaves her apartment and heads 
downstairs.

INT. KITCHEN

Moira pulls some items out of the fridge and makes herself a salad.

LATER

Moira is washing up her supper dishes. There are footsteps on the 
stairs.

Moira peeks around the wall of the kitchen, where she can see Ryan, 
stepping out of the front door.

Moira can't resist a sly smile. She murmurs under her breath.

MOIRA

You don't know what you're in for Ryan Dupuis.

INT. MOIRA'S APT. – LATER

Moira has bathed and donned a fancy dressing gown.

She lays a white cloth over a small table in front of her sofa – her 
makeshift altar - and places a pink candle at one end, a blue candle at 
the other. In the middle is a dark bowl with a thick red candle inside. 
Also inside the bowl is a small ceramic dove and Ryan's tie clip.

Last, she lines the seven smooth stones up in front of the bowl. When 
she's finished laying out the ceremonial items Moira turns out the 
light and sits, cross-legged in front of the altar.

First she lights the pink and blue candles, then the red candle.

Shadows play in the candlelight as Moira begins the love spell.

MOIRA

Great loa Erzulie...

She places one of the stones in the bowl.

MOIRA

Accept my humble offering and bring my love to me...

Another stone goes in the bowl.

MOIRA

Spirit of water, spirit of light, in this spell take your rightful 
part...

Another stone.

MOIRA

Bring us together, never to part.

Another stone.

She gathers the last three stones in her hand and holds them over the 
bowl. Her eyes close and a slight smile parts her lips.

She drops one stone each time she utters Ryan's name.

MOIRA

Ryan Dupuis, Ryan Dupuis, Ryan Dupuis...  This spell is cast.

INT. MOIRA'S APARTMENT – MORNING

Moira is sitting on her bed, a hair brush in one hand and a big mirror 
in the other. On the bed are various cosmetics, hair bows, and 
barrettes.

She brushes at her hair, parting it down the side and then in the 
middle. She looks at her self in the mirror, dissatisfied. She leans 
the mirror against the headboard, so that both of her hands are free.

She picks up a large barrette, then pulls up the front part of her 
hair, and clips it. She plucks at her bangs a couple of times, then 
goes for some lipstick.

The first one's too dark and she wipes it off. The second one is a 
lighter pink. She opens some mascara, and flinches when she sticks 
herself in the eye, while applying it. One more attempt and she gets it 
right.

She picks up the mirror and stares at her reflection for a moment, then 
she talks to it.

MOIRA

Oh, I don't know Ryan. I may have plans. I'll have to check my 
schedule.

She giggles and tosses the mirror on top of a pillow. She stands and 
goes for her purse, on the bedside table. Next to the purse are her 
dark-rimmed glasses.

The clothes she's wearing are quite different than her usual attire. 
Her dark jeans fit nicely, not baggy like they normally would, and her 
shirt is unbuttoned, revealing a small slip of her bright red bra.

She reaches to pick up her glasses, but pauses, then puts them back 
down.

She hears footsteps on the landing, and rushes to her door.

She flings it open and sees Ryan, puppy in tow, heading down the 
stairs. She opens her shirt more, and leans with one hand against the 
stair railing.

MOIRA

What ya' got there?

Ryan stops about midway down the stairs and turns to look up at her. 
His eyes wander to her breasts.

RYAN

This is Buster. I saved him from the gas chamber yesterday.

Moira walks down the stairs, slowly and sultrily toward Ryan. His eyes 
are glued on her.

Moira reaches Ryan.  She leans down in front of him to pet Buster.

Buster licks at her hands, while she rubs his head and neck, and talks 
baby talk to him.

MOIRA

Oh, you're so cute aren't you? Yes you are.

She glances up at Ryan, and notices he's staring at her. She smiles, 
pleased with herself.

MOIRA

What kind is he? German Shepard or.. Part husky maybe?

Her question doesn't register in Ryan's mind. He's too busy staring 
down her shirt. He even leans forward a bit to get a better view. When 
Moira stands up, her face is close to Ryan's.

He doesn't step back. He swallows hard and stares into her eyes. He 
stumbles for the right words to say.

RYAN

You look... different.

Moira smiles at him, and tilts her head to the side.

MOIRA

Different?

RYAN

Nice. It's nice.

Moira nods.

MOIRA

Thanks. Where are you taking him?

Ryan seems entranced by Moira, like he's off in another world 
somewhere.

RYAN

What?

MOIRA

Buster; where's he going while you work?

Ryan glances down at Buster.

RYAN

Oh... I have to take him to the kennel during the day; just until I get 
moved into my new place.

MOIRA

Yeah, I heard you were moving out. We're gonna miss you.

Ryan jumps at that comment, eagerly.

RYAN

But I won't be far. Just a few blocks, so I can be closer to the 
office.

MOIRA

It's funny, Mrs. LeBlanc didn't mention you bringing a dog in here. You 
know the lease says no pets - big bold print - not even a fish tank.

Ryan picks up the puppy and holds it close to his chest.

RYAN

I know, but we'll be gone before she gets back.

He glances at the puppy in his arms, and then at Moira, who's smiling 
at him.

MOIRA

Your secret's safe with me.

Moira touches Ryan's hand, and gets a surprised look on her face, as if 
she's had a brainstorm.

MOIRA

Hey you know what... I have the week off. Why don't you let me watch 
him while you're at work?

RYAN

You'd do that?

MOIRA

Sure.

Moira reaches out and musses up Buster's fur on the top of his head. He 
licks her.

MOIRA

Unless you just want to stick him in a smelly kennel, where he'll get 
fleas, ticks, and God knows what else.

Ryan shakes his head and hands Moira the puppy.

RYAN

Well, that's it then. Oh...

He reaches into his pocket and holds out his keys to Moira.

Moira stares at the keys.

MOIRA

No, I don't n...

She stops herself. Apparently Ryan doesn't know she already has a key.

RYAN

His food's on the floor next to the fridge, and he needs to go outside 
every couple of hours.

MOIRA

Alrighty. Don't worry. We're gonna have lots of fun.

She rubs her nose against Buster's. He licks her face.

MOIRA

I'll take good care of him.

Ryan turns and trots down the stairs. He calls back to Moira.

RYAN

Thanks a lot. I owe you.

He stops at the door, to eyeball Moira once more.

MOIRA

Dinner?

Ryan smiles at her and nods.

RYAN

Done.

He opens the door and steps outside.

EXT. MRS. LEBLANC'S BOARDING HOUSE - SECONDS LATER

Ryan starts down the front walk. He opens the gate, then  looks back at 
the house and shakes his head, confused by his strange new attraction 
to Moira.

INT. MRS. LEBLANC'S BOARDING HOUSE - MOIRA'S APARTMENT

Moira holds the puppy in her arms, the leash wrapped around her arm and 
dangling. Moira is smiling, tickled pink with Ryan's reaction to her. 
She picks up her purse and leaves the room.

INT. BOOK STORE - MINUTES LATER

Moira steps through the door. There's the familiar clang of the cow 
bell against the door as she closes it.

Henry looks up at her, from behind the counter. He's sitting on a tall 
stool, reading a newspaper - The Times Picayune. He looks at her, and 
then does a second take, lowering his head to peer over his glasses.

MOIRA

Hey Henry. Look what I got. Isn't he precious?

She holds Buster out for Henry to get a better look. Then she rubs her 
face against Buster's neck and kisses his little black nose.

HENRY

What did you do Moira? You look like a whole other person.

Moira smiles, turning around in a circle, modeling for Henry.

MOIRA

You like? I thought it was time for a change.

HENRY

Change is good yeah. Now if we can just get you to spend some time with 
your nose outta these books we can get you a man.

MOIRA

Well, that's sort of what I wanted to talk to you about.

Henry moves from behind the counter, to stand by her. He reaches out 
and strokes Buster. He grins at Moira.

HENRY

Whatcha gonna do with this little guy while you workin'?

MOIRA

There's a guy... a man in my building. I really like him Henry - have 
for a long time.

HENRY

Oh that's good Cher.

MOIRA

This is his puppy. I kind of offered to watch it while he works.

Henry glares at her sideways.

MOIRA

It's only for this week, and besides, you said it yourself - you can 
barely afford to pay me as it is.

HENRY

You gonna take a week off with no pay to watch a dog? You sure he's 
worth it?

MOIRA

Oh yeah. He's worth everything.

Henry sighs, as if contemplating whether to give her the week off. He 
smiles and motions her away with his hand.

HENRY

Go on. Get to your puppy sittin'.

Moira smiles brightly and kisses Henry on the cheek. He's still 
grinning when he heads back to his newspaper.

Moira turns for the door and blows a kiss at Henry.

INT. NEW ORLEANS RESTAURANT - NIGHT

The restaurant isn't as nice as the ones Ryan takes his girlfriends to. 
It's a basic cafeteria line type steak house.

Ryan is dressed in jeans and a T-shirt, and Moira is a bit overdressed 
for the place, in a slinky, revealing , black dress. Her make up is 
darker than she's worn thus far.

They approach the table and Ryan sets his tray down, then takes Moira's 
tray and pulls out the chair for her.

She smiles at him and tosses her hair, like she's seen his girlfriends 
do so many times.

MOIRA

Such a gentleman. Thanks.

Ryan sits down and averts his gaze from Moira to pretty much anything 
else in the room.

MOIRA

So, tell me something

RYAN

About what?

MOIRA

About you. I don't know much except that you work in the State 
building, you like puppies, and have lots of... friends.

RYAN

Not that many close friends. I date a lot. Well what do you want to 
know?

MOIRA

Anything you want to tell me. What do you like to do, when you're not 
working? What do you do for the state? Do your parents live around 
here? Got any brothers and sisters?

RYAN

Whoa...

He giggles and holds up one hand.

RYAN

I like movies, tennis, golf. I work in the oil and gas well permit 
department, issuing drilling permits. It's not nearly as glamorous as 
it sounds.

He giggles at his own joke, and Moira smiles a bit uneasily, as if she 
doesn't see the humor in it.

RYAN

Kinda boring. Anyway, My parents died in a house fire almost three 
years ago, and I was an only child. Did I miss anything?

MOIRA

Well, you already know I work in The Book Collector's Attic, the 
antique book store on St. Charles. My family is all up in Michigan. I 
moved here because I heard so much about New Orleans, and it seemed 
like an interesting place to plant some roots. I like reading, watching 
TV, taking a walk or feeding the ducks in the park.

Moira notices that Ryan is again looking around the restaurant, 
disinterested in what she's saying.

MOIRA

Making you love me.

Ryan's head snaps to around at that comment.

RYAN

What did you say?

MOIRA

I said the smell is making me hungry.

Ryan looks at her as if he's not buying it. He knows what he heard her 
say. He glances down at his watch. It's only seven o'clock.

RYAN

Yeah. I hope they hurry with the food. It's getting late and I have to 
work tomorrow.

MOIRA

So it's just dinner then? I was hoping we could go.. I don't know; take 
a stroll down Bourbon Street or something. I love to watch the street 
performers.

RYAN

They're some real characters aren't they? 

Moira grins and nods. 

RYAN

Anyway, I guess we could squeeze in a short walk. But I really gotta 
get home by ten.

Moira smiles and nods her head.

MOIRA

Don't worry, we'll be home early. Heaven forbid we should keep all 
those millionaires waiting on their permits.

RYAN

It wouldn't be a pretty scene.

A waitress, (40's), plump and tired looking, comes up to the table, and 
places the food in front of Ryan and Moira.

EXT. OUTSIDE, BOURBON STREET - NEW ORLEANS - NIGHT

Moira and Ryan are strolling down the street. In the background are the 
sounds of street musicians playing Zydeco and Jazz. The voices and 
laughter of the bar patrons float into the street, as the bar doors are 
always open on Bourbon Street.

Twenty feet above their heads, a scantily clad woman sits swinging in a 
swing that juts out from one of the buildings. All along the street, 
there are strip clubs, bars, souvenir stores selling x-rated T-shirts, 
mugs, beads, voodoo dolls, etc.

People mill about, carrying the unusual shaped, fluted glasses, 
especially made for the alcoholic drink called a Hurricane - a staple 
of the New Orleans party scene.

Moira and Ryan stop near a small group of musicians playing some slow, 
sexy, blues music. Moira grabs Ryan's arm and pulls him closer to the 
music. She wraps her arms around his neck and then runs her hand down 
his face.

MOIRA

Dance with me Ryan.

He stands with his hands at his sides for a moment, looking around, as 
people stop to watch them. Embarrassment is evident on his face.

RYAN

Come on Moira. People are watching.

Moira grins at him and grabs his arm, resting it on her hip.

MOIRA

So what? You can dance can't you?

Ryan grins at her and shakes his head in dismay at this strange new 
Moira.

RYAN

You're full of surprises Moira Dunn.

He whirls her around, dips her, and then pulls her back up. Their faces 
are inches apart.

Moira leans in and plants a kiss on his lips. At first, his eyes remain 
open, and he doesn't respond. In a few moments, he gives in to the urge 
to kiss her back, and they stand kissing, barely moving, while 
onlookers watch them.

After several seconds of deep, passionate kissing, someone in the crowd 
starts to clap and whistle. Others join in.

Suddenly, Ryan's eyes spring open and he steps back away from her. His 
voice is slow and trembling.

RYAN

This isn't right. Something isn't right here.

Ryan is suddenly dizzy. He puts a hand to his head. He narrows his eyes 
at Moira.

RYAN

What is this?

His eyes are filled with confusion.

Moira pleads with him.

MOIRA

I-I. . .what's wrong, Ryan? You asked me out. You wanted to be with me. 
You did.

Moira panics and her eyes well up. Moira steps toward him, raises her 
hand to touch his face.

MOIRA

Please, Ryan...

His voice raises a few decibels, and everyone in the crowd can hear 
him.

RYAN

I have to go.

He turns and quickly trots down the street, a bit unsure of his steps. 
He turns into an alley and disappears, leaving Moira standing alone.

Soon, the people in the crowd are laughing and pointing at her. Her 
head spins with confusion and shame. She sways as if she might faint.

Moira screams at them, her eyes full of tears.

MOIRA

No! No! Shut up! Just shut up! A curse... I'll put a curse on all of 
you!

One MAN in the crowd wiggles his fingers at her and laughs even harder.

MAN

Wooo Woooo... A curse... Oh no please!

He laughs even harder, showing a mouthful of rotten teeth. The rest of 
the crowd continues to laugh along with him.

Moira covers her ears with her hands and runs down the street crying.

EXT. BOARDING HOUSE – LATER

Moira stumbles up the steps, sobbing.

INT. BOARDING HOUSE STAIRWAY – CONTINUOUS

Moira races up the steps. 

INT. MOIRA'S APARTMENT



She slams the door behind her, leans against it, crying.

Her makeup runs down her eyes, giving her a slightly demented look.

She storms to the:

BATHROOM

In one angry motion she sweeps the new makeup off the shelf into the 
trash.

She looks up into the mirror.

MOIRA

I hate you! I hate you!

Moira picks up a jar and throws it at her reflection. The mirror 
cracks.

Still in a stormy mood, Moira walks toward her bed. Several fashion 
magazines lay there. She picks one up with a beautiful model on the 
front.

She tears the cover off, then continues at each page that shows a 
beautiful woman.

MOIRA

Ugly...ugly. That's what you are!

Tears stream down her face.

Moira scatters the tattered pages and throws herself on the bed. Her 
body shakes with racking sobs.

INT. MOIRA'S APARTMENT – DAY

Daylight streams in the windows and across Moira's body as she lays 
asleep on the bed.

OUTSIDE

A door opens, closes.

INT. HALLWAY

Ryan, trailing the puppy on a leash, moves toward the stairs.

The puppy wanders over to Moira's door, looks up at Ryan, whimpers.

Ryan tugs on the puppy's leash.

RYAN

C'mon, Buster.

The puppy reluctantly follows Ryan down the stairs.

INT. MOIRA'S APT. – SAME

Moira stirs on the bed. She's wearing the clothes she had on the night 
before. Her makeup is even more smeared.

She sits up when she hears sounds in the hallway.

INT. MOIRA'S ROOM - SAME

Moira lurches off the bed as Ryan's footsteps sound on the stairs.

She races to the window to watch him as he heads down the front 
walkway.

EXT. BOARDING HOUSE – SAME

Ryan and Buster walk down the street. Buster stops now and then to 
investigate something along the sidewalk.

INT. MOIRA'S ROOM

Moira watches until Ryan and Buster are out of sight.

She moves from the window. Her mouth is pulled in a dismal frown as she 
makes her way to the kitchen.

EXT. BOARDING HOUSE – EVENING

Ryan leads Buster up the steps. Buster runs ahead, tugging on the 
leash.

At the door Ryan pauses, kneels down and pets Buster. The puppy does a 
happy dance. Ryan stands, puts his key in the door.

INT. BOARDING HOUSE – CONTINUOUS

Ryan enters, takes the stairs up to his apartment.

INT. MOIRA'S APT. – SAME

Moira's apartment is a mess. Empty food containers litter the floor.

Moira – still in the same clothes she slept in – lies on the sofa 
asleep. She's even more disheveled than before. She looks like hell.

The slamming of Ryan's door wakes her. She sits up, wipes a hand over 
her face and yawns. She sits for a moment, thinking. Her face is 
sullen, with the thoughts of last night.

INT. MOIRA'S APT. – LATER

Moira, freshly scrubbed, back to her old self, sloppy clothes and no 
make up, sits on the sofa, waiting.

A sound in the hall alerts her.

She jumps up, grabs her purse and stands in front of her door looking 
out the peep hole.

In the fish eye lens Ryan stands, with his back to her, in the hall 
locking his door.

He moves out of her vision toward the stairs.

Moira slips out the door and quietly follows Ryan.

EXT. CITY STREET – MINUTES LATER

Moira follows Ryan at a discreet distance for several blocks.

Ryan crosses the street to a bustling area full of sidewalk VENDORS 
with TOURISTS and LOCALS milling about shopping and passing to and from 
restaurants and quaint shops.

Ryan slows his pace, stops, appears to consider something, then steps 
over to a VENDOR selling fresh flowers.

Moira ducks into a nearby alcove and watches.

Pausing to make his selection, Ryan peruses the merchandise, finally 
choosing a small bunch of delicate flowers.

Having made his purchase Ryan moves on down the street.

Moira follows, again keeping behind him out of sight.

They approach a trendy restaurant when a beautiful redheaded woman, 
PATTY, turns toward Ryan, smiles, lifts her hand to wave.

The woman steps toward Ryan, holds her arms out.

Moira stops dead in her tracks and stares at her.

Ryan steps into Patty's embrace.

Moira's face falls. A look of despair twists her features miserably.

Ryan and Patty kiss.

Arm in arm, Ryan and Patty turn and walk into the restaurant.

Moira, stunned by what she's seen, follows the couple into the 
restaurant.

INT. PRIOLA'S RESTAURANT - CONTINUOUS

Once the couple is seated Moira walks up to the table. Tears fall down 
her face.

Ryan stares up at Moira not believing what he's seeing. He glares at 
her with undisguised anger.

RYAN

What the hell are you doing here, Moira?

Patty looks from Ryan to Moira, perplexed.

MOIRA

How can you do this to me, Ryan?

Ryan looks around at the other DINERS. They're beginning to stare. He 
speaks in a deadly whisper.

RYAN

I mean it, Moira, leave. Now.

PATTY

Ryan, who is she?

RYAN

Nobody.

Moira starts to blubber.

She falls to her knees in front of Ryan. Between sobs she begs him.

MOIRA

We're all just nobody to you aren't we? Please don't do this to me.  
Last night meant something. I know it did. When you kissed me there was 
love in your eyes...

She puts a hand on Ryan's arm, looks up at him with watery, pleading 
eyes.

MOIRA

This woman's just like all the rest. She won't love you like I do.

Patty is fuming now.

PATTY

Ryan; what the hell is going on?

Ryan stands, yanks his arm away from Moira. His face is red, his voice 
raised a couple octaves. He turns to Patty.

RYAN

Nothing except this. . . this weirdo is stalking me.

(to Moira)

I'm sorry it has to be this way Moira, but if you would just leave me 
alone... Please!

Ryan reaches in his pocket, pulls out a five dollar bill, throws it on 
the table.

He moves around Moira, bumps roughly into her, knocks her off balance.

Moira falls to the floor, catches herself with her hands.

A WAITER comes over to escort Moira out. He helps her stand.

Ryan takes Patty's hand. They leave the restaurant.

Between sobs she looks up at the people at the other tables staring at 
her. She brushes herself off, jerks away from the waiter and walks out 
of the restaurant.

EXT. RESTAURANT – CONTINUOUS

Moira steps out onto the street. She looks around at the PEOPLE 
standing there. She imagines that they are all staring at her.

She turns and hurries away.

INT. MOIRA'S APT. – LATER

A dim light, from a tiny lamp beside her, casts a mournful shadow in 
the room where Moira sits on the sofa, her head hung, staring at her 
hands.

Amid the trash and strewn clothes lays the book of spells – it seems to 
glow in what little light shines in the room.

As if it calls her name, Moira turns, looks at it.

A look of grim determination sets in her features. Moira reaches down, 
picks the spell book up off the floor.

She thumbs through its pages. With each turn of a page her eyes shine 
with fury.

Suddenly she stops flipping pages. Her mouth twists in a bitter smile. 
She nods her head.

MOIRA

Spells for revenge...

EXT. CITY STREET – DAY

Moira walks down the street toward the Voodoo Apothecary.  She carries 
the book of spells, holding it tightly against her chest.

INT. VOODOO APOTHECARY – CONTINUOUS

The shop is empty except for the same cashier that rang her up last 
time. He grins and nods in her direction.

Moira lifts a hand basket from the corner and moves down the aisles 
collecting ingredients, consulting the spell book: 4 thick black 
candles, a small black bowl, white chalk and a large coarse, black 
square of cloth.

Moira looks down at the items in her basket, then opens the spell book.

She scans the items on the shelves once more then turns to the cashier.

MOIRA

Where would I find a wolf's tooth and chicken's blood?

The cashier stares at her.

CASHIER

Chicken blood? They sell fresh chicken, still cluckin' at the butcher's 
market on 12th. The wolf's tooth though... some things are not so 
easily found.

Moira hoists the basket up and leans against a display.  Her expression 
says don't "mess with me".

MOIRA

Do you have it or don't you?

The cashier motions to her to come to the counter. She heaves a heavy 
sigh and steps forward.

The cashier opens a door behind the counter, he slips through and 
closes the door behind him.

Moments later the door opens and he steps up to the counter with 
something wrapped in gauze and tied off with a black cord.

Moira holds her hand out for the item.

The cashier moves them out of reach.

CASHIER

Anybody hears I gave you this, and I'll be shut down. We can't kill 
wolves any more.

Moira sighs, growing impatient. Her features harden.

MOIRA

How much?

CASHIER

One Benjamin for the wolf's tooth.

Moira glares at him.

MOIRA

This is a real wolf's tooth, not from some road kill right? You'd 
better not be cheating me because if I find out...

The black man looks hurt.

CASHIER

I don't play around with the Voodoo. Just be sure you don't either.

Moira mumbles to herself, unloads the rest of her purchases onto the 
counter and digs in her wallet for the cash.

INT. MOIRA'S APT. – LATER

Moira pushes chairs and tables back against the wall to clear a large 
space on the floor in front of the sofa.

She goes over to the sink. In the sink is a decapitated chicken, and on 
the counter next to it, is a small pill bottle, she has filled with its 
blood.

She suddenly hears foot steps from the hallway. 

Moira pauses, quickly caps and picks up the pill bottle, then rushes to 
the peep hole to look out. She sees Ryan letting himself into his 
apartment.

Moira giggles, a dark sadistic grin on her face. She clamps a hand over 
her mouth to muffle the sound.

She moves away from the door toward a large sack on the sofa.  Beside 
the sack is the book of spells. She pulls the black cloth from sack, 
unfolds it and lays it on the floor. It covers a 4 x 4 area. She places 
the pill bottle of chicken blood on the cloth.

Moira steps over to the sofa, grabs the sack and the book of spells, 
then kneels on the floor at the edge of the cloth.

From the bag, she removes the four black candles.

She smooths the cloth and at each corner places one of the candles.

Moira opens the book of spells to a place she has marked with a slip of 
paper, takes the chalk from the sack and moves to the center of the 
cloth.

Following a drawing in the book she draws a ragged circle.  Inside the 
ragged circle she draws something that resembles a dog.

Satisfied with her artwork, Moira leans back on her feet, reaches into 
the sack once more for the wolf's tooth, still wrapped in gauze, and 
the small bowl she'd bought.

She places the bowl in the center of the circle.

From her pocket she removes Ryan's gold tie clip. She places it and the 
other items side by side at the edge of the cloth.

She stands, grins down at her handiwork, then turns all of the lamps 
off in the room except one which she covers with a dark maroon scarf, 
casting the room in an eerie red light.

Once again she kneels at the edge of the cloth. From her pocket she 
pulls a pack of matches. She lights one, holds it in one hand and picks 
the book of spells up in the other.

Each time she lights a candle she says a line from the spell.

MOIRA

Spirits from the deep, who never sleep... Spirits from the grave, 
without a soul to save... Spirits of the air, foul and black, not 
fair... Spirits of the dead, that glide with noiseless tread...

She extinguishes the match and reaches for the chicken blood.

She uncaps it and pours it into the bowl.

MOIRA

Spirits of cold and ice, phantoms of crime and vice...

She places the wolf's tooth in the bowl. The gauze soaks up the blood 
as she speaks.

MOIRA

I pray you send hither, send hither...the great grey shape that makes 
men shiver...

Finally she adds Ryan's tie clip to the contents of the bowl.

MOIRA

Ryan Dupuis, Ryan Dupuis... Come next full moon a wolf you will be!

INT. RYAN'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

Ryan is playing with Buster, tugging lightly on his ears and poking him 
in the sides. Buster nips at Ryan's hands and jumps at them with 
delight. He barks playfully, lying down and wagging his tail, as he 
waits for the next opportunity get a grip on Ryan's fingers.

After a few moments, Buster get a bit too excited, and nips too hard. 
Ryan pulls back his hand, and one of his fingers has a bloody scratch.

RYAN

Okay boy. That's enough. You're getting too worked up.

Buster barks once more at Ryan, as he heads for the bathroom.

INT. BATHROOM - CONTINUOUS

Ryan opens a mirrored cabinet and grabs some peroxide and some plastic 
bandage strips. He cleans the blood off, dries his hand, and applies a 
bandage.

INT. LIVING AREA - LATER

Ryan is sitting in front of the TV, on the sofa. He looks pale, and is 
sweating. He rubs his forehead and notices how much he's sweating. He 
rises from the sofa slowly, clearly not feeling well.

LATER

Ryan is sleeping, tossing and turning fitfully. He's sweating and 
mumbling.

Visions of a wolf tearing at flesh enter his dreams time and again. 
There are more visions of a wolf-like creature standing on all fours.

Ryan lurches upright in bed, when the wolf-like creature of his 
nightmare howls loudly.

He stumbles to the:

BATHROOM

He stands at the mirror and stares at himself for a moment. His eyes 
are bloodshot, and his sweaty face is ash gray. He swallows hard a 
couple of times, and then rushes to the toilet, where he promptly 
vomits.

INT. RYAN'S APARTMENT - NEXT MORNING

Ryan is on the sofa, looking worse than just hours before. He weakly 
fumbles for the phone on an end table. He dials seven digits and waits 
for an answer.

PATTY

(O.S.)

Hi; this is Patty. I'm not here right now, so leave a message and I'll 
call you right back.

Ryan groans into the receiver and hangs up. Then he dials another seven 
digits. The phone rings and rings, but there's no answer. He dials 
again.

MALE VOICE

(O.S.)

Permit section; Leonard Morris, how can I help you.

RYAN

Leo, this is Ryan. I'm not gonna make it in today. I'm sick as a dog.

LEONARD

(O.S.)

Shit. The permits are already backed up, and your vacation, so you can 
get moved, is just around the corner. How long you gonna be out?

RYAN

Just today probably. I hope.

Leonard sighs on the other end of the phone line.

LEONARD

(O.S.)

Alright. Take some drugs, rest. See you tomorrow.

RYAN

Uh huh.

Ryan hangs up the phone and grabs a small throw hung over the back of 
the couch. He shivers and bundles up, under the throw.

INT. MOIRA'S APARTMENT

Moira is dressed in a pair of checkered print sleeping pants, a tank 
top, no bra, and ratty looking, fuzzy slippers. Her hair is tuck on top 
of her head with a clip, and is sticking out in a hundred directions.

The spell items are on the floor, just as she left them the night 
before. Moira picks up the black cloth, and puts it, with the other 
spell items in a sack, then stuffs the sack under her bed. She moves to 
the:

BATHROOM

At the sink she cleans up the remnants of the chicken, shoving its 
decapitated body into a plastic shopping bag and ties it tight, then 
tosses it into a trash can.

She heads for the door of her apartment, carrying the trash can.

INT. BOARDING HOUSE, HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS

Moira steps outside, and immediately hears coughing coming from the 
direction of Ryan's place.

She walks over to the door and presses her ear against it. Ryan sounds 
as if he's coughing up a lung.

Moira puts the trash can on the floor and knocks on Ryan's door.

INT. RYAN'S APARTMENT

He's still lying on the sofa, looking pretty sick.

RYAN

It's open.

Moira opens the door and steps inside. She saunters over to the sofa 
and stands over Ryan, one hand on her hip.

Buster is lying on the floor. He barks at Moira, but doesn't approach 
her.

Ryan rolls his eyes and then closes them again, seemingly too weak to 
fight with her.

MOIRA

Gee Ryan; you look like hell. Did you tie one on last night? Or maybe 
you should just be more careful. Probably picked up something soap and 
water won't wash off.

Ryan coughs loudly and covers his head up with the small blanket.

RYAN

God Moira. Just go away.

MOIRA

It sounds like you're dying in here, so I thought I'd just stop and see 
what I could do. But never mind.

Ryan pulls the blanket down just enough to show his eyes, and speaks 
through the material, a bit muffled.

RYAN

Nothing. You can just leave me alone. Stop following me. Stop 
embarrassing me in front of my dates.

Ryan coughs violently again. He covers his head back up, then turns to 
face the back of the sofa.

Moira grins sadistically and turns to leave, stopping with  her hand on 
the door knob.

MOIRA

Oh don't worry. I'll be the least of your problems.

RYAN

Lock it when you leave.

Moira turns the lock on the door and closes it.

Under the blanket, Ryan's brows furrow. He's wondering what she meant 
by that. He pulls the blanket off his head, and stares at the door, 
making sure she's gone and the door is locked.

INT. ANTIQUE BOOKSTORE – LATER

Moira works the register, a CUSTOMER stands at the counter with a stack 
of books. Moira's face is drawn tight and sullen. Her clothes are 
rumpled and her hair a mess.

Henry eyes her at a distance.

She rings up the sale, bags the books wordlessly.

The customer leaves.

Henry steps up to the counter, leans an elbow on it.

HENRY

You're not yourself today, Cher?

Moira lifts her head, glares at him.

MOIRA

The old Moira is dead.

Henry lifts an eyebrow and runs a hand across the counter, narrows his 
eyes at her.

HENRY

This got somethin' to do with your new man?

MOIRA

Yeah. Somethin'...

Henry purses his lips.

HENRY

Wasn't nothin' wrong with the old Moira, if you was to ask me.

Moira's features soften.

MOIRA

Sorry, Henry. I shouldn't take it out on you. It's just that my life 
sucks right now. Sucks so hard.

Henry lifts her chin with a finger.

HENRY

Don't worry your head. A good man gonna come along for you.

Moira offers him a weak smile.

Satisfied, Henry wanders off to the back of the store.

Moira's smile melts to a frown as she watches him walk away.

INT. RYAN'S APARTMENT - HOURS LATER

There's a knock on the door. Buster barks. Ryan, still on the sofa 
rises slowly and stumbles to the door, then opens it. Patty is standing 
at the door. She steps inside. Concern covers her face and she touches 
his forehead.

PATTY

Oh my God Ryan. You're burning up. How long have you been like this?

She helps him to the sofa, and plops down next to him. He shivers and 
she covers him up.

Ryan's voice is weak and trembling.

RYAN

Since last night. I think I got some bad food.

PATTY

Did you call the doctor yet?

Ryan shakes his head. He's very weak and barely coherent.

Patty stands and goes to the door, where Ryan's shoes are siting. She 
returns with them and slips them on his feet.

RYAN

We going somewhere?

PATTY

To the emergency room. Food poisoning can kill you Ryan. Here; hold on 
to me.

She wraps Ryan's arm around her shoulder and leads him out of the 
apartment.

They pass a calender tacked to the wall. It shows the next full moon, 
marked on a dated block, near the end of the month. There are X's on 
the other dates, preceding a block that says "week off for move", with 
a wiggly line through the following five days -  the work week. The 
full moon is still several days away.

INT. HOSPITAL, EXAMINATION ROOM - LATER

Ryan lies on the exam table, still sweating, coughing and shaking.

RYAN

What's taking so long? It's just a god damned blood test.

PATTY

I'm sure they're going as fast as they can. It's a busy hospital Ryan.

Patty looks down the hall, through the open door and sees a middle aged 
male DOCTOR heading toward them.

PATTY

Speak of the devil.

The doctor enters the room and closes the door. His face is twisted 
with confusion and concern.

RYAN

So am I dying or what?

Ryan giggles weakly.

The doctor sits on a rolling stool, and opens his clipboard. He stares 
down at the document, Ryan's test result, and clears his throat.

DOCTOR

Well now, we can't have that happening can we? There's a treatment. 
It's just... this is different than what we've seen before.

Ryan is starting to get freaked out.

RYAN

Out with it please. What's wrong with me?

The doctor sighs and closes the clipboard. He stares into Ryan's eyes.

DOCTOR

Mr. Dupuis, have you been bitten or scratched by any strange animals - 
maybe a neighbor's pet or...

RYAN

No. Well, I have a new puppy, but he's fine. I mean he seems fine. What 
are you trying to tell me?

DOCTOR

You have what... by all appearances, seems to be a new strain of 
rabies.

Ryan practically yells, shocked and horrified.

RYAN

Rabies? As in foaming at the mouth and going nuts rabies?

The doctor holds up his hand trying to calm Ryan. Patty looks on with 
disbelief and shock on her face.

DOCTOR

That's what happens to infected animals, not people. Humans become very 
ill and can die if not treated...

Ryan eyeballs him, his face a mask of fear and stress.

PATTY

A new strain? Will the treatment still work then?

DOCTOR

I can't offer you any guarantees. Like I said, we've never seen it 
before. The virus that causes rabies has a different biological make up 
than what you've come in contact with. This one... it has  it's own DNA 
properties.

RYAN

Oh God... Should I be really worried about this?

PATTY

DNA of what?

The doctor pauses, stares down at his clipboard, and then opens it, as 
if he's forgotten what it says. He's nervous and unsure of himself.

DOCTOR

Canine.

Patty and Ryan are both stunned and find it hard to comprehend what the 
Doctor is explaining to them.

The doctor stands up.

RYAN

This doesn't make any sense.

DOCTOR

I'm sending animal control to retrieve the dog. If he's fine, then you 
have nothing to worry about... except figuring out where this came 
from. If not, he'll be put down. The CDC isn't going to take any 
chances that a new strain could infect the animal population.

Ryan starts to cough uncontrollably now. He can barely breath, he's 
coughing so hard.

Patty grabs a napkin, from a nearby dispenser and holds it over Ryan's 
mouth. The doctor looks on, concerned. His eyes meet Patty's and he 
shakes his head.

DOCTOR

We'll start the treatment in the morning. In the mean time, you'll be 
admitted, so we can try to get your fluids back to normal. We'll give 
you something for the nausea, and to help you sleep.

PATTY

Thank you.

The doctor nods and leaves the room.

INT. OPERATING ROOM - NEXT DAY

Ryan is lying on the operating table, dressed in a paper hospital gown, 
and looking worse by the minute. His eyes are more bloodshot than ever, 
and his facial stubble has grown enormously.

A nurse stands nearby, with a paper mask on, sorting and preparing 
items and a large syringe with a long needle.

The doctor enters the operating room, and as he approaches Ryan, he 
immediately notices and is surprised by the extraordinary growth of 
Ryan's facial hair.

DOCTOR

Ready to get started?

Ryan rolls his head to face the doctor and speaks weakly, barely above 
a whisper.

RYAN

Anything beats feeling like this Doc. Make it quick and painless huh?

The doctor smiles softly and pats Ryan's arm.

DOCTOR

Sorry son. Can't oblige you there. If I could I would.

The nurse rolls the instrument cart over to the operating room table, 
and the doctor holds out his gloved hand.

The nurse hands him the syringe with the very long needle.

EXT. OPERATING ROOM - SAME

Outside the door and across the hallway, is a family waiting room, with 
a few chairs, some end tables, coffee table, and magazines. Patty sits 
in one of the chairs. She's biting on her nails and looking generally 
worried.

She hears the sound of Ryan groaning loudly from the injections. She 
stares helplessly at the operating room door.

MONTAGE

As time passes, Patty changes positions on the chair.

She paces the floor.

She tries to read magazines, but can't concentrate on any of them.

She continually hears Ryan's faint moaning coming from the operating 
room.

MONTAGE

INT. HOSPITAL ROOM

Patty holds a pan, while Ryan vomits in it.

Patty swabs Ryan's forehead, while he's feverish and sweaty.

Ryan has more nightmares of the flesh eating wolf, and the wolf-like 
creature.

Patty cradles Ryan when he wakes screaming from his nightmares.

Finally, Ryan wakes, looking healthy. He glances over at Patty, who is 
sleeping, huddled into a ball in a straight back chair.

INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - DAY

Patty is standing next to Ryan's bed. Carla, (the woman Ryan took to 
Priola's restaurant) sits in a chair nearby.

Ryan is smiling and looking quite well.

PATTY

I bet they let you go home today.

CARLA

I have dibbs on the first night out.

Ryan smiles at Carla.

Patty grins at her insincerely, then leans down to whisper in Ryan's 
ear.

PATTY

That what she thinks. You're all mine.

She kisses Ryan on the cheek. He turns his face to her and they start 
to kiss.

Carla looks away sheepishly, then stands up and approaches Ryan's bed.

CARLA

I'm gonna get going now.

She looks down at her watch. She pats Ryan on the forearm and turns to 
walk away.

RYAN

Thanks for coming. I'll give you a call in a couple of days.

Carla nods.

CARLA

Glad you're feeling better.

She leaves the room, and leaves the door to close by itself.

The doctor passes her and steps in through the open door.

DOCTOR

Well Mr. Dupuis, looks like we got lucky. We're sending you home today.

RYAN

Thank God. I'd starve to death soon.

Patty grins.

PATTY

Ummm... hospital food.

She smirks.

The doctor takes a pen and a small pad of prescription forms from his 
pocket.

DOCTOR

I'm gonna give you some steroids to take at home, - the same ones 
you've been taking, and some antibiotics just for good measure. 
Honestly, I can't be sure if it was the treatment alone, or the 
steroids that helped you so much. Be sure you take the whole 
prescription.

He writes the prescriptions quickly and hands the papers to Ryan.

RYAN

Thanks. You saved my life.

The doctor smiles.

DOCTOR

I had your puppy sent to Paws and Claws Kennel. You can pick him up 
there. I'm glad he's clean. Now it's just me who has a problem.

The doctor sighs and rocks back on his heels.

RYAN

I know, but I don't have a clue what it coulda been. I wasn't around 
any other animals - none.

DOCTOR

The CDC is on me to find out where this came from. Once they get going, 
they don't let up, so if you do think of anything, give me call.

Ryan opens his mouth to speak, but Patty breaks in.

PATTY

We will. So we can go now?

DOCTOR

I want to see you in my office in two weeks. The address is on the 
prescriptions. Take care now Mr. Dupuis.

He extends his hand and Ryan shakes it. The doctor heads for the door.

INT. BOARDING HOUSE - LATER

Ryan and Patty are climbing the stairs to his apartment, with Buster in 
tow. They're giggling and chatting.

Moira steps out of her door, and almost runs into them. Her makeup is 
very dark, and she looks plain evil. She sees how healthy Ryan looks, 
and she's perplexed.

MOIRA

Well look at that... he lives.

Ryan and Patty stop chatting and quickly skirt by her. Ryan glares at 
her hatefully.

INT. RYAN'S APARTMENT - DAY

Patty is setting some bowls, milk, and a box of cereal on the table. 
She's dressed in a skirted business suit and heels.

Ryan is just waking and sits up in bed. He slips on a shirt, and leaves 
it unbuttoned. His eyes are bloodshot and his facial stubble is thick.

Patty glances at him, and then does a double take, noticing his facial 
hair.

PATTY

I was thinking I'd stay at home tonight. I haven't been back since we 
went to the hospital, and I really need to get in there and clean the 
place up.

Ryan is a bit slow, making it to the table. He plops down and rubs his 
eyes hard. He's looking a little pale.

Patty reaches out and rubs his face.

PATTY

Didn't you just shave last night?

Ryan rubs his chin.

RYAN

Yeah. Weird huh? Must be the steroids.

PATTY

Hmmm... Must be.

Patty pours him a bowl of cereal. He stares down at it for a moment, 
not impressed at all.

RYAN

I don't want that! Isn't there any meat in this house?

His eyes flash anger and he shoves the bowl away, spilling some of the 
milk onto the table.

Patty looks bewildered by his outburst, and then her expression turns 
to irritation.

Ryan stares at her, and it dawns on him that he's being an ass.

PATTY

I don't have time for this. I don't have time to cook either. I'm late 
for work.

Ryan grabs her hand as she starts to walk past him, headed for her 
purse.

RYAN

I'm sorry. I don't know what the hell's wrong with me. I guess I still 
don't feel that great. Sit down... please.

Patty hesitates for a minute, before accepting his apology. She sits 
down and pours herself a bowl of cereal.

Ryan takes a bite of the cereal, and he immediately begins to cough 
violently. He spits up blood first - a large amount of it.

Patty stands quickly and shrinks back away from him staring for a 
moment, in shock. She grabs a towel and hands it to him. He continues 
to cough, with the towel over his mouth.

When his coughing subsides, he looks down into the towel. It's full of 
blood, but there's something else; a large chunk of blood covered, gray 
hair.

Patty stares at it and then at Ryan, horrified. She steps toward him, 
and he coughs one big hacking cough, spewing blood all over her 
business suit.

Patty shrieks and takes several steps away from him. She breaks down.

PATTY

God! I can't take this any more. Days and days I watched you like this. 
I'll call the doctor, but I can't... I just can't...

She's near the point of tears when she grabs her purse and leaves.

INT. BOARDING HOUSE, STAIRWAY - CONTINUOUS

Moira is at her door, looking dark and brooding, as she has lately. She 
closes and locks the door.

Patty rushes past her and Moira grins, watching her practically run 
down the stairs and then slam the door.

Ryan's door is partially open, and Moira can see him sitting at the 
table, head in his hands. He turns, and Moira knows he's spotted her, 
staring at him.

He stands and steps toward his door. Just before he can close it, Moira 
calls out to him.

MOIRA

I told you! They don't love you Ryan! They're all the same!

Ryan slams the door.

Moira stands at the door, laughs a loud humorless laugh, then turns, 
walks toward her door. A dark expression clouds her features.

INT. MOIRA'S ROOM – DAY

Moira sits cross-legged on the sofa watching TV and painting her nails 
with slow even strokes.

A low-mournful wail comes from the direction of Ryan's apartment.

Moira's brows furrow. She glances at the TV to see if that's where the 
sound came from.

The wail turns to a blood curdling scream. Moira jumps. The nail polish 
bottle shoots out of her hand onto the floor, spitting a red stream 
across the carpet.

Moira looks toward her door, her eyes fearful. She scoots off the sofa, 
picks up the bottle.

She moves toward the door, opens it a crack.

She hears whining coming from inside Ryan's apartment.

Quietly, Moira steps out, and across the hallway. She leans against the 
door, listening.

Cries of pain and fear come from behind the door.  It's a pitiful sound 
that brings tears to Moira's eyes.

Moira knocks once. . .knocks again.

MOIRA

Ryan?

A strangled sound comes from the room.

Moira clamps a hand over her mouth to stifle a sob.

She races back to her apartment, grabs the key ring, goes back across 
the hall and unlocks Ryan's door.

INT. RYAN'S ROOM

The room is a mess. It looks as if someone tossed clothes and trash in 
a fit of fury.

Moira steps in, scans the room.

The strangled sound again.

MOIRA

Ryan? Are you okay?

She takes a tentative step forward toward the bed. A mound of twisted 
sheets and blankets cover it.

A whining noise comes from under the bed.

Moira bends down, lifts the cover, and looks underneath the bed.

Buster cowers there.

Moira reaches toward him. He backs away from her.

MOIRA

Come here, boy. I'm not gonna hurt you.

From atop the bed, under the covers a hand shoots out, grabs Moira's 
arm.

She screams. Buster yelps from his hiding place.

The hand is mottled red, with patches of coarse hair covering it. The 
blackened nails are long and sharp.

Horrified, Moira struggles to get away.

MOIRA

Oh God... no!

Moira twists, jerks away, pounds at the hand with her fist, but the 
hand holds fast.

Moira's shrieks fill the room.

The blankets rise and are tossed off to reveal a creature barely 
recognizable at Ryan.

His bloodshot eyes are red-rimmed, the coarse hair sprouts from every 
inch of his body and underneath. The skin is covered in dark bruises.

He sits up, clinging to Moira for support.

She stares in horror. He pleads with her, his words slurred.

RYAN

Help me...

MOIRA

Ryan, I'm so sorry...I didn't mean...

Ryan looks at her, puzzled. He squeezes her tighter.

RYAN

What? What are you saying?

MOIRA

I didn't think it would go this far.

RYAN

You... you did this to me? What the hell? 

MOIRA

It was a curse - a stupid prank.

Ryan lunges forward grabs her by both arms.

Moira twists away from him with eyes full of tears.

Ryan tries to crawl from the bed. A white foam appears in the corners 
of his mouth.

RYAN

I'll kill you!

Moira runs from the room, slams the door behind her.

A thud comes from inside the room, then a scraping noise across the 
floor – Ryan coming after her.

Moira's hands shake violently as she sticks the key in the door to lock 
it.

Heavy breathing comes from behind the door as Ryan reaches it. The knob 
jiggles...

An angry roar comes from the room.

Moira covers her ears, cries.

The noises stop, only the sound of labored breathing comes from the 
room.

Moira hurries toward her apartment.

INT. MOIRA'S APT.

Moira wrings her hands and paces back and forth across the floor. Her 
tear-streaked face is set in a worried frown.

The book of spells lays on a table near the sofa.

Moira rushes over to it. She picks it up, turns the pages quickly, 
scans them.

MOIRA

Nothing... There's nothing.

She flips until she reaches the end, then lets out a whimper of fear. 
She starts at the front and flips through it again.

When she reaches the back of the book, tears roll down her eyes.

She casts her eyes heavenward.

MOIRA

Oh, God I'm so sorry. Please help me find a way to stop this...

An idea comes to her. She jumps from the sofa, grabs her purse off the 
table and shoves the book of spells into its depths.

She bolts from her apartment, glances at Ryan's door - pausing only a 
second - then races down the stairs to the front door.

EXT. CITY STREET – LATER

The street is brimming with people going in and coming out of the 
stores there.

Moira rushes through the crowd. She bumps into a WOMAN who turns and 
glares at her. Moira mumbles an apology and hurries toward the Voodoo 
Apothecary.

INT. VOODOO APOTHECARY – CONTINUOUS

Moira steps in the door, then heads for the counter.  A YOUNG BLACK 
WOMAN, with "Shandra" written on her name tag, is behind the counter.

Moira steps up to the counter.

MOIRA

Excuse me!

The woman looks up, startled by her tone.

Moira looks around the store to make certain no one is in earshot.

MOIRA

I need a book on how to reverse spells.

The woman breaks into a grin, but seeing that Moira is dead serious, 
adopts a more serious expression.

SHANDRA

Somebody put a spell on you?

Moira shakes her head.

MOIRA

No. Me. It was me. I did it.

Shandra thinks a moment.

SHANDRA

We don't have any book like that.

Moira reaches across the counter, grabs hold of the woman's sleeve.

MOIRA

Please, you've got to help me.

Shandra shrugs, pulls away from her clutching hand.

MOIRA

Wait. There was an old woman in her the other day...

(to herself)

What was her name?

She shuts her eyes tight, purses her lips, thinking hard.

MOIRA

Bessie!

She looks up at the cashier, eyes wild.

MOIRA

Do you know where I can find her?

The cashier hesitates.

Moira puts a hand in her purse, pulls out a twenty dollar bill, offers 
it.

MOIRA

Please, it's important.

Shandra's eyes light up. She takes the money, writes something on a 
piece of paper, hands it to her.

SHANDRA

Tell her I sent you.

Moira snatches the paper and hurries out of the store.

EXT. STREET – CONTINUOUS

Moira examines the address written on the sheet. Her brows furrow. She 
looks up, scans the street.

She spots a cab and runs to catch it.

INT. RYAN'S APARTMENT - SAME

There's a knock on the door. Buster wags his tail and goes to the door, 
sniffing it. When Ryan opens it, just a small crack, Carla is standing 
there.

She smiles, then notices the hair on the side of Ryan's face that's 
peeking through the crack. Her eyes trail further down to his long, 
claw-like nails and hairy hand.

Her mouth drops open. Her face contorts with confusion and concern.

CARLA

Ryan... I just dropped by to see how you're doing.

Ryan just stares at her. She steps closer.

CARLA

Aren't you going to invite me in?

Ryan opens the door wider, and the woman steps back and gasps in 
horror, seeing that he is shirtless, and covered in a fine coat of 
hair. She clamps her hand over her mouth to keep from  screaming.

RYAN

I was sick for a while - couldn't figure it out. But now I'm great. 
Stronger than you can imagine.

A low growl escapes him. He extends his arm, as if to usher Carla in, 
and he grins in a sinister way. His teeth are slightly elongated.

RYAN

Come on in. You can help me shave.

He suddenly grabs her arm and starts to pull her inside. Buster barks 
and pulls at Ryan's pant leg.

Carla screams and wiggles away. He laughs at her as she runs down the 
staircase at top speed.

INT. RYAN'S APARTMENT - LATER

Ryan is standing by the sink, shirtless. He draws a glass of water and 
opens his bottle of steroids. He pours one into his hand, pauses, then 
pours out another. He gulps them down with one big swig.

He no longer looks weak and tired, but his chest and shoulders are 
extraordinarily hairy. He reaches up to scratch his neck, and his nails 
are longer and sharper than previously.

He steps to the refrigerator, opens it, and stares inside. There's 
vegetables, juices, milk, hot dogs and lunch meat. There's one package 
containing a large, raw steak. He reaches for it, and when he picks it 
up, it drips with blood.

He heads over to the stove with it, and places it on top. A skillet 
sits on top of the stove. He starts opening the steak, but gets blood 
all over his hand. He looks at his hand. The palm is slightly hairy.

He sniffs the blood and his eyes flash with delight. His pupils dilate 
and his breathing quickens. He licks the blood voraciously. He pauses, 
confused by his own actions. Then he grabs the steak.

A low rumbling growl resonates inside his throat, as he tears into the 
raw meat.

EXT. RUNDOWN NEIGHBORHOOD - SAME

A cab stops in front of a small clapboard house. The house is well 
cared for, the yard full of flowers and shrubs, and dotted with daisy 
windmills and cement garden statues.

Moira exits the cab and walks up the path to the front door.

She knocks.

A chicken jumps up on the steps beside her and clucks, giving Moira a 
start.

She looks down at it.

MOIRA

Shoo!

The chicken ambles off as the door opens.

Bessie stands in the dark doorway looking expectantly at Moira.

MOIRA

Hello. We met in the Apothecary. You said I should come see you if I 
needed help.

The old woman smiles.

BESSIE

Found yourself some trouble did ya'?

Bessie stares at Moira. She puts a long, elegant cigarette, takes a 
long drag and blows the smoke out slowly. She flicks the cigarette out 
the door.

She turns, facing away from Moira, and wiggles an index finger over her 
shoulder, motioning for Moira to follow.

INT. BESSIE'S HOUSE – CONTINUOUS

Filled with old furniture, photos of family, and various voodoo items 
the house spotless.

Moira enters, looks around.

Bessie sits in a chair and motions to Moira.

BESSIE

Sit down, Child. You have trouble with your love spell?

Moira's eyes mist as she takes a seat across from the old woman.

MOIRA

No. Well yes, but it was the other one I tried. It didn't go well. It's 
horrible.

She looks up, tears run down her face. Bessie's brow furrows with 
concern.

BESSIE

Oh girl... the Voodoo is a powerful thing. What did you do?

MOIRA

I cast a spell on my neighbor and turned him into a werewolf.

Bessie looks skeptical. She grins and giggles. She pats Moira's arm.

BESSIE

Now, that'd be a mighty strong spell... you sure you know...

MOIRA

Waht? I'd make something like that up? He's changing every day, getting 
more and more like an animal - a wolf.

Moira breaks down and sobs.

MOIRA

I can't stand it anymore. He's sick and he's in pain. You've got to 
help me stop it.

Bessie is still incredulous.

MOIRA

If you don't believe me come see for yourself. But we don't have much 
time.

Bessie stares at her, perplexed.

MOIRA

The full moon... It's tonight.

Understanding dawns on Bessie, her eyes widen, she nods.

BESSIE

You brought it with you - the book where you got the spell?

Moira nods and reaches into her purse. She hands the book to Bessie.

Bessie studies it for a moment, then opens it, thumbing through the 
pages.

She studies the page with the werewolf revenge spell. He face is 
covered in concern. She shakes her head in disbelief.

Moira waits, expectantly.

BESSIE

I can't say if this for sure is gonna work but I can't find nothin' 
better to lift such bad magic.

Moira pulls a pad and pen from her purse. She pauses, on the ready to 
write.

BESSIE

Mash a clove of garlic in a spoonful of water-make it like a paste. Rub 
the paste on the bottom of his feet.

Moira is horrified.

MOIRA

I have to touch him?

Bessie looks up.

BESSIE

I didn't say it was gonna be easy. You do want to help him?

Moira nods.

BESSIE

Write his name on a piece of paper three times. Light a white candle 
and drop seven drops of wax on the piece of paper. Then burn the paper 
in the candle flame. Save the ashes and put 'em in a white cloth the 
size of your hand and tie it with a white string.

She pauses and watches Moira scribble on the paper.

Moira looks up.

MOIRA

Is that it?

BESSIE

No, that ain't it. What were you thinkin' - doin' this to somebody?

Moira lowers her head and stares at the floor, ashamed.

MOIRA

I wasn't thinking. All I knew was I hated him. 

Bessie eyeballs her, glaring hatefully as if to impart as much guilt as 
possible onto Moira.

BESSIE

Where did you find this book girl?

MOIRA

From the book store. It's where I work.

Bessie stares her down, waiting for Moira to come clean with the rest 
of the story.

BESSIE

There ain't but one person I ever knew, who'd even have the know how to 
do this spell.

Moira swallows hard, looks down at her paper.

MOIRA

Stella Richard. We bought all the books from her estate sale.

Bessie gives her an all knowing glare, and points at the page of notes 
Moira has in one hand.

BESSIE

Now you take that and hide it somewhere in his room. Hide it good, now.

She pauses, thinking.

Moira waits, hands folded in her lap, gripping the piece of paper.

BESSIE

You listen to me girl, and listen good. You have to believe for this to 
work; really believe. And if it don't - then and only then; you gotta 
undo the doin'.

MOIRA

I don't understand.

BESSIE

All of it. Speak the words of the spell backwards. Undo what you did - 
the drawing - everything. Do it right. One syllable wrong, one 
ingredient you miss – the curse will come back on you threefold.

Bessie lights another cigarette and sits back, staring seriously at 
Moira. She waves her hand at Moira, shooing her away.

Moira stands.

MOIRA

Is there anything I can do... to repay you?

Bessie blows out a slow puff of smoke.

BESSIE

Just one thing. The wolf will follow your scent to the ends of the 
Earth. If you fail, don't come back here.

Moira breathes out a slow, trembling, deep breath, nods and leaves the 
house.

INT. RYAN'S APARTMENT – EVENING

The room is scattered with raw carcasses of Ryan's past meals; 
chickens, steaks, racks of lamb, ham bones, packages of mostly eaten 
organ meats.

Flies buzz about, landing on the carcasses.

Buster stands on the dining table, gnawing at the ham bone. The 
apartment is a mess, horribly disheveled. Clothes, pieces of paper, and 
magazines, are all over the place.

Ryan is sitting on the sofa inspecting his body. He's covered with a 
fine layer of hair. His stomach and chest are especially hairy and 
where his beard and moustache should meat, is one large patch, covering 
the bottom of his face. His eyebrows are now long and bushy, and 
intersect in the center, angled down toward his nose.

He stares at his hands. The palms are now thick with hair. He turns his 
hands over and looks at his nails. They look more like claws. His brow 
bones are prominent, like a Neanderthal, and his lower jaw is jutting 
out a bit.

The TV is off, and Ryan can see his reflection in the screen. He leans 
forward on the sofa and is horrified by what he sees.

He reaches up to touch his face, running his fingers along his 
sideburns, which intersect with all the other hair on his face. He 
places a hand on each cheek and then pulls down, making the skin below 
his eyes stretch and distort.

His eyes well up and he mumbles to himself.

RYAN

What's happening to me?

He stares for a few more seconds, then grabs a glass and throws it at 
the TV screen. It shatters. He screams - a growl sounding, angry 
scream.

Buster jumps off the table, and runs to hide under the bed, whimpering.

Ryan turns and sees the state of his apartment.

INT. MOIRA'S APARTMENT - SAME

Moira stands at the table loading the spell items into a paper bag.

She hears the crash and the scream from Ryan's apartment. She grabs a 
large, heavy, wood cutting board with a handle, from her kitchen 
counter top, and quickly heads for the door.

INT. BOARDING HOUSE, UPSTAIRS LANDING - CONTINUOUS

Moira races for Ryan's door and tries the knob. It's locked. She pounds 
on the door frantically.

MOIRA

Ryan! Open the door!

Moira hears a growl from inside. She steps back, afraid.

The door creaks open, but she doesn't see Ryan. She takes a step 
slowly, and enters the apartment.

INT. RYAN'S APARTMENT - CONTINUOUS

Moira steps in further, and is horrified by the mess, particularly the 
raw animal carcasses. She makes a disgusted face at the smell and 
covers her nose and mouth with her shirt collar.

The door suddenly slams, and Ryan stands there staring at her.

Moira gasps and presses herself against the nearest wall. She holds the 
cutting board behind her back.

RYAN

What's wrong Moira?

He grins, showing slightly pointed incisors.

Moira just stares at him in horror.

RYAN

Don't like what you see? Maybe you've forgotten... you love me so much.

Moira's eyes well up. Her breathing is short and shallow. She swallows 
hard.

Ryan steps closer.

MOIRA

I remember. I'm so sorry.

Moira brings the cutting board from behind her back and swings it 
across Ryan's head.

The blow knocks him to his knees.

Buster barks and nips at Moira's ankles. She kicks at him.

Moira lifts the board again and strikes him across the neck.

Ryan lands on the floor, out cold.

Moira turns Ryan over on his back and grabs him by the ankles.

She tugs and makes a face at the weight, then pulls harder, dragging 
him from the room.

She steps toward her door.

INT. MOIRA'S APARTMENT - CONTINUOUS

Moira grabs the bag of spell items quickly, and steps back out.

INT. BASEMENT – LATER

The basement is a large, unfinished room with boxes, old furniture, a 
roll away bed and a large freezer.

Ryan is still out. The bag of items is sitting on his chest.

Buster investigates the room.

Moira searches, finds a long length of clothesline and ties Ryan's feet 
and hands, knotting the rope several times.

She takes the items out of the bag, rummages around and finds a old 
dusty bowl.

She looks around - no water. She thinks for a second, then grabs the 
bag off of Ryan and plops it on the floor. She rifles through it and 
pulls out the spoon.

She goes to the freezer and opens it, then scrapes some ice from 
inside.

A gas water heater sits in one corner of the basement. She gets down on 
her knees and melts the water by sticking it in the opening at the 
bottom, where the pilot light is.

When the ice is melted, and she has a teaspoon of water, she begins 
making the paste.

Moira takes the bowl of paste over to Ryan, rubs it on his feet.

She sits crossed legged in front of him, brings a piece of paper out of 
her pocket and reads from it.

MOIRA

With earthen herb and magic verse

I turn around this wicked curse.

As these words of mine are spoken, let this evil spell be broken.

Just as she speaks the last words, Ryan stirs and groans.

Moira stands quickly and backs away, staring at him.

He tries to move his arm up, to rub his aching head, but finds that he 
can't move. A low growl escapes him, as he stares at Moira with hatred.

RYAN

Haven't you done enough?

MOIRA

No Ryan. I haven't. I'm trying to help you.

Ryan glares at her. The pace of his breathing increases, and saliva 
drips from the corner of his mouth.

The color of his eyes changes to a deep yellowish brown.

Moira stares into his eyes, unable to comprehend the change.

RYAN

Why Moira?

Moira looks away, ashamed.

RYAN

Look at me! Look at what I've become!

Moira suddenly composes herself, as if remembering how horribly he'd 
treated her.

MOIRA

Look at me! Look what I've become! I doesn't matter though. Not to you. 
What I've become is desperate. Desperate enough to try anything.

Ryan eyeballs her as he wiggles, trying with all his might to get free 
from the ropes. He grunts and strains, but he's tied up pretty well.

RYAN

And it's all because I don't love you. I never could Moira. I can't

even tell you why. It just isn't there.

Moira's eyes well up with tears.

Ryan struggles against the ropes. He tires for the moment.

RYAN

What am I? Lion, tiger bear...

Ryan starts to struggle again, and one of the ropes breaks.

He grins sadistically and his voice grows lower and more hoarse.

RYAN

Oh my...

Moira steps back and gasps. She drops the bowl the paste was in.

Ryan struggles more and another rope breaks. He's almost free.

Moira runs for the door.

Ryan gets the rope off his ankles and lunges for her.

Moira slams the door on his arm.

INT.  OUTSIDE THE BASEMENT DOOR

Moira presses her back against the door, using all the strength in her 
legs to keep him from getting out.

Ryan retracts his arm, and Moira slams it shut, then bolts the dead 
bolt.

She slides down the door and sits there exhausted. Her legs are pulled 
in toward her chest, and she sits with her face in her hands and her 
elbows resting on her knees. She sobs.

INT. BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS

Ryan presses his face against the door, exhausted and defeated.

He pleads with Moira.

RYAN

Just tell me what I am Moira.

He pounds on the door again, one big blast with his fist loosens the 
top hinge. He cringes and grabs his hand, sliding down the door.

RYAN

You owe me that much.

They both sit there against the door, neither one saying a word.

Moira continues to sob.

INT. OUTSIDE THE BASEMENT DOOR - HOURS LATER

Moira is lying on the floor in front of the door, sleeping.  A storm 
brews outside. The lights flicker. A sudden clap of thunder booms. 
Moira jerks awake.

The thunder subsides replaced by the sound of something brushing 
against the basement door.

Moira pushes herself up slowly, glances over her shoulder at the door, 
then over to a clock on the kitchen wall.

It reads: 5:25.

The thunder continues – low and rumbling.

Moira stands up slowly and presses her ear to the door.

MOIRA

Hello?

The lights flicker again – the sharp crack of lightening startles 
Moira.

RYAN

(O.S.)

You can let me out now Moira. It's over.

MOIRA

It worked! Oh thank God!

Moira smiles and reaches for the dead bolt.

She wiggles and strains but the dead bolt won't give.

MOIRA

(to Ryan)

It's stuck.

She grunts and tries even harder.

MOIRA

I wish you could know how sorry I am. It was stupid... a werewolf 
curse.

She scoffs.

MOIRA

I never really thought it would work.

INT. BASEMENT

Ryan is not at all cured. In fact he looks more wolf-like. His pants 
have split at the calves, as his legs have grown larger, and changed 
shape. His brows are more prominent and his teeth and nails longer.

He giggles and scoffs.

RYAN

Werewolf? A werewolf?

A low growl escapes him.

INT. OUTSIDE THE BASEMENT DOOR

Having heard this, Moira steps back and stops wiggling the dead bolt. 
Her face shows both the shock and disappointment that her cure didn't 
work.

MOIRA

I can't open it.

Ryan begins to pound on the door again, harder than ever. Dust falls 
from the door jam, and the wall cracks a bit above the door facing.

INT. BASEMENT

Ryan stands at the door, breathing deep and pacing in front of it.

He slams his fist into it again.

RYAN

Open this door you stupid pathetic little bitch or I'll break it down!

He slams his fist into the door again.

INT. OUTSIDE THE BASEMENT DOOR

Moira jumps, started by the blow from inside. She steps away several 
steps.

A lightening bolt crashes nearby outside. Moira shrieks. The lights 
flicker briefly then go out. Moira's in complete darkness.

From inside, Ryan shouts at her.

RYAN

(O.S.)

It's only a matter of time Moira. I get stronger everyday. You can't 
keep me locked in here forever.

Ryan pounds on the basement door. The sound echoes eerily in the 
darkness.

Moira whimpers. In the dark, she feels her way to the:

KITCHEN

She bangs against the kitchen table. A moment later she rattles a 
drawer, then...

A stream of light comes from a flashlight. Moira's face glows in the 
light like a fiendish mask.

The beam of light bounces in front of her as she makes her way up 
stairs.

INT. MOIRA'S APARTMENT

Moira retrieves the bag of spell items from under her bed and heads 
back down stairs.

INT. BASEMENT – SAME

Ryan clutches and sits in a heap on the floor, convulsing.  His cries 
ring out in the room.

INT. KITCHEN

Moira hurries toward the basement. The sounds from beyond the door are 
worse, louder. Her eyes tear.

INT. OUTSIDE THE BASEMENT DOOR

In front of the door she kneels and sets the flashlight on its end to 
shine up at the ceiling.

A dim light reflects on Moira's hands as she unloads the  black cloth 
and other items used in the revenge spell.

She lays the cloth out...

MOIRA

Oh God! I'm trying, Ryan.

INT. BASEMENT

Ryan's body begins its final transformation. He lets out an unbearably 
tortured scream.

INT. OUTSIDE THE BASEMENT DOOR

Moira screams in response and clamps her hands over her ears, then 
prays quietly.

MOIRA

Please, God, let this work.

Moira places the candles at each corner of the cloth, lights them.

The sound of bones cracking as if snapped in two stops Moira cold. She 
holds still – listening. More cracking comes from behind the basement 
door. Ryan screams and howls, an animalistic howl, in agony – then 
silence.

Moira's hands shakes violently as she places the bowl in the middle of 
the cloth, followed by the rest of the chicken's blood, Ryan's tie 
clip, and the gauze wrapped wolf's tooth.

Once she's set out all of the spell items she reaches for the spell 
book and slowly reads from it. 

She carefully recites the curse BACKWARD.

MOIRA

Spirits from the deep, who never sleep... Spirits from the grave, 
without a soul to save... Spirits of the air, foul and black, not 
fair... Spirits of the dead, that glide with noiseless tread...

And after the first line of the curse is read she extinguishes a 
candle...

The silence is broken by a sudden hammering at the basement door.

Moira jumps.

INT. BASEMENT

Ryan has fully transformed. He's at the door, slathering at the mouth, 
a low guttural rumble in his chest builds to a fierce howl.

INT. OUTSIDE THE BASEMENT DOOR

Moira holds the spell book in quaking hands. She reads the next line of 
the spell BACKWARD.

MOIRA

Spirits of cold and ice, phantoms of crime and vice... I pray you send 
hither, send hither...the great grey shape that makes men shiver...

She extinguishes another of the candles.

The pounding on the door grows louder. The door cracks...

Moira, eyes wide with terror, jerks her head toward the door.

The door splinters. A piece of wood lands on the cloth almost knocking 
one of the lit candles over onto the floor.

Moira gasps. She casts terrified glances at the door, then back to the 
book.

She screams the last words BACKWARD.

MOIRA

Ryan Dupuis, Ryan Dupuis... Come next full moon a wolf you will be!

She extinguishes the last candle as a loud crack rings out and a piece 
of the door gives way.

A hairy arm with deadly claws slams through the crack in the door 
almost reaching Moira's shoulder.

She screams and moves out of the way, takes the items from the bowl, 
pours the blood out of the bowl onto the floor behind her.

More howling and loud animal-like breathing comes from behind the door 
and then another piece of the door flies across the hall.

Moira mumbles to herself incoherently as she rubs at the drawing on the 
black cloth, frantically trying removing the chalk outline.

Ryan's head – fully transformed, unrecognizable as his own - pokes 
through the door.

His wild yellow eyes spot Moira, and in a single frenzied movement he 
breaks the door down just as Moira erases the last of the drawing.

He lunges for Moira as she screams and turns to run. She makes it a few 
feet into the kitchen.

MOIRA

By these words this curse is done!

She screams out in pain as the fully transformed Ryan knocks her to the 
ground and bites her in the back of the shoulder.

He growls and lifts up to bite her again, but suddenly collapses on top 
of her.

He lies perfectly still.

Moira is crying and bleeding from the shoulder wound. She wiggles out a 
bit and rolls him off of her. She staggers to her feet.

The lights flicker a couple of times and then come back on, lighting up 
the room.

She watches in astonishment as Ryan transforms slowly, back to human 
form.

She sobs softly and sits down on the floor, scooting back to lean 
against a kitchen cabinet.

EXT. BOARDING HOUSE - DAY

Ryan is loading his things into a moving van. Buster is running around 
in the front yard of the house.

Ryan looks up to notice Moira watching him from her window. He stares 
hatefully at her for a second, then ignores her altogether.

INT. MOIRA'S APARTMENT - SAME

Moira watches Ryan as he loads the last chair into the moving van, 
calls to Buster to jump in, and drives away.

Tears stream down her face. She throws herself onto the bed and huddles 
into a small ball.

INT. MOIRA'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

Moira is tossing and turning fitfully in her sleep. She's sweating.

Flashes of an animal tearing away at raw meat and a strange, wolf-like 
creature howling on all fours, enter her dreams.

Moira wakes with a jolt and turns over quickly to flip on her lamp.

She looks around the room, frightened. Seeing nothing out of the 
ordinary, she calms down a bit.

She runs her hands over her sweaty face and then a puzzled expression 
contorts her features.

She looks down at her hands. The palms are hairy as well as the back of 
her hand and her nails have grown extremely long.

Shock and horror cover her face. She screams. 

MOIRA

NO!!!



FADE OUT

Return to SimplyScripts.com