The
Diner of Love
3503 Angel Square Court
Llanview, PA
"Nothin' Could Be Finer Than Some
Lovin' In the Diner"
"There ain't no lovin' like some diner lovin', hey ho"
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"Nothin' Could Be Finer Than Some
Lovin' In the Diner" |
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What can I get you?
Coffee's a dollar
I hope you like whip cream.
I just love the Voice of the Night. We have this special connection. |
MARCAL SCENES PAGE 42
Scene 47 Bridging the Gap &
Making Dinner
January 26, 2004
Marcie: Ok. Hey. Young man: Hey. Marcie: How are you? Young man: Good. Marcie: Good. All right, here we go. Let's get settled and let's -- oh, hey. Al: Hey. Marcie: What are you doing here? Al: I'm here to wish you luck. I hope you stick it to Professor Barnes. Marcie: I can't even believe that you know about him. Al: Yeah, I was at the Bedford Library and the kids were talking about your show. And they say -- what is it -- 'Sexual Harsmsment On Campus,' right? Marcie: Yeah. Jen: They mentioned Professor Barnes? Marcie: Jen, relax. Jen: They're going to know that we're talking about him. Marcie: No. Ok, listen, just relax, all right? As long as you do not say his name, then there is nothing that he can do. Jen: Ok. Marcie: All right, listen, listen -- listen to me. You're not going to be alone, all right? Jessica Buchanan is going to bring a girl here. Her name is Tammy Sanchez, and she went through everything that you experienced with Professor Barnes. So just relax and calm down, all right? It's going to be all right. Al: You know what? I should probably take off and let you guys get set up. You know what I mean? Marcie: Sure. Al: All right. I'll see you later. Marcie: Thanks. Al: Ok. Jessica: Marcie, hey. Do you want to come here? We kind of have a problem. Marcie: Oh, ok. I'll be right back, all right? Tammy? Are you ok? Tammy: I'm sorry. I can't be on the show. ***
Al: You know, I think you should do the show with or without Tammy. Marcie: Yeah. Jessica: Yeah, if somebody doesn't stand up to Professor Barnes, he's just going to do it over and over and over again. Marcie: I know, but I can't really make a big case out of the sexual harassment if we only have one person who's actually willing to stand up and speak out about it. Jessica: Maybe we can. We can use that to our benefit. We can discuss how hard it is for students to come forward against their professors, how it's scary. Jen: Yeah, I can vouch for that. Al: Well, you're going to be great. I'll -- I'll see you after the show. Marcie: Thanks. Thanks. That's a good idea. Rae: Hey, everybody. Marcie: Hi. Rae: Listen, I brought those notes. Marcie: Oh, great. Rae: You wanted to see them? Marcie: Yeah, come on, let's get started. Come on. Jessica: Hi, Dr. Haver. Stephen: Well, hello. How are you? Jessica: Very well. Stephen: Good. How's the article going? Are you ready to name the real serial killer? Jessica: Well, I'm going to leave that to the experts. Stephen: I see. Well, just so you know, Rae and I have been discussing that whole situation. Jessica: And does she think that Troy's the killer? Stephen: Well, she still has a lot of questions. Jessica: And no answers. Stephen: And as long as there aren't any answers, you have to ask yourself -- maybe the real killer is still out there. Marcie: You know, I just -- I wish Tammy hadn't backed out. Rae: I know, but, Jen, I think you're going to be very effective. You know what I wish? I wish you could just go out into the streets and scream about this. But you know, honey, legally, you're going to have to protect yourself. You can't mention Professor Barnes' name. Marcie: Yeah. Jen: I don't -- I don't think this is actually a very good idea. Rae: Jen -- Marcie: Well, no, listen -- listen, Jen, ok? This is your decision, all right? I want you to do whatever makes you comfortable. I'm behind you 100%, all right? Whatever you want. ***
Marcie: Welcome to "Bridge The Gap." I'm Marcie Walsh, your host, and on today's show we're going to change the format a little. We're not going to have guests representing different sides of a campus issue, as we usually do. Instead, we have a panel of guests who will be giving us various insights into today's topic, which is 'Sexual Harassment on the L.U. Campus. And I am pleased to welcome two very special guests with me here today. From the Llanview university psychology department, we have Dr. Rae Cummings and Dr. Stephen Haver. Stephen: Hello. Good morning. Marcie: Good morning, hello. I'd actually like to start with you, Dr. Haver. You know, a lot of people still joke about the problem of sexual harassment, but it actually is a very serious problem here currently on campus. Stephen: Well, my question is, if it is a joke, who's laughing and why? Sexual harassment in an academic setting is just -- it's a nightmare waiting to happen. The symptoms are psychological and physical for the victims. Insomnia, loss of self-esteem, depression. Marcie: And some of the examples of sexual harassment can be a sexist comment or another student coming on to a student in a way that is unwelcoming. Or even, let's say, a professor who offers a good grade in exchange for a sexual favor. Stephen: At the same time, it's important not to create an environment where the professors are so worried about sexual harassment that they feel they can't express their concerns about a student's well-being, or -- or express an interest in their work. Rae: Exactly. You know, relationships can be so easily misconstrued. Sexual harassment charges can absolutely destroy a person's career and even their life. That's why, at this university, we take this all very seriously. Marcie: Exactly. This is actually a really good time to bring someone else into the -- into the discussion. I would like to introduce Jessica Buchanan. You are a senior here at L.U., and you're actually the campus reporter for "The Banner." And Jessica has written some really wonderful, amazingly insightful, interesting articles -- Jessica: Wow. Marcie: About sexual harassment and the problem that we're having here on campus. You actually spoke to a number of undergraduates who say that they have experienced this firsthand. Jessica: Yes, I spoke with four different woman who all have said that they've been propositioned by the same professor who has been offering grades in exchange for sexual favors. Marcie: Well, why haven't they brought up the charges? Jessica: Well, most of the time they're terrified. They don't want the publicity, they don't want to labeled as troublemakers. And most of all, they're afraid nobody's going to believe them. Marcie: Well, actually, one of those women is here with us today, and she is a senior here at L.U. She's a film major. And I want to thank you for coming. And without telling us what the professor's name is, could you just tell us what happened? It's ok. Jen: I -- I -- I can't. I'm sorry, I just -- I can't do this. Marcie: Listen, I know that this is really hard for you to talk about, ok? But if you do this, then you're going to put this professor on notice that he cannot get away with doing this to other students. Jen: I was having huge personal problems, and I couldn't keep up with my classes. Rae: Did you -- did you tell anyone about that? I mean, did you go to a professor or to a dean? Jen: Well, I wanted to, but I was embarrassed. So when I didn't turn in my paper, this professor asked me to stay after class, and he told me that I would fail his journalism course, and that was my minor. Rae: Jen, um -- Marcie: Well, why don't you just -- Jen: But the public has a right to know! I learned that much in journalism. Marcie: No, of course. Well, why don't you just tell us exactly -- Jen: And anyway, it's no big secret. Any woman who takes one of Professor Barnes' classes knows that he hits on all of his students. Marcie: Ok, is that what happened to you? Jen: I asked him for an extension on my paper, and he told me that I could get an 'A' without even writing the paper. And then he asked me to come over to his house to discuss it. I asked him what he meant, and he sort of winked at me and told me he wasn't too kinky. He told me if I gave him an A-plus performance, then that's the grade that he would give me. Stephen: Owen. Young man: Wait, you can't come in here. Stephen: Owen -- Rae: Owen, what are you doing? Owen: This is Professor Owen Barnes. And I'll be joining this little panel right now. What? You didn't think that I heard the buzz on campus all morning? If they're going to destroy my reputation and accuse me of a crime, I have a right to defend myself. ****
Owen: I am a full professor with an unblemished record at this institution. Ms. Buchanan's claim is completely unfounded. Rae: You know what, Owen? This is -- this is really out of place here. Can't we take this outside and talk about it? Marcie: Are you actually saying that you have never, ever offered a student a good grade for a sexual favor in return? Owen: I remember my conversation with Ms. Buchanan most vividly. I did ask her why she didn't turn in her paper, as I would any student. I was concerned. She said that we could make "special arrangements" so that she could fulfill the course requirements. Jen: What? That is not true! Owen: She said she would do anything for an A, and then she got more specific -- Jen: No! Owen: And quite graphic. Jen: You are lying! Owen: Am I? Perhaps Dr. Haver here could explain that your complaint should go to the harassment grievance board, if you think your character can withstand the scrutiny. Now you know my side of the story. I assure you, I will be vindicated. Young man: Marcie -- Marcie: Oh. Uh, I -- listen, I'm sorry about that. I think it's time for a break because I know I need one. So we'll be back after these community announcements. Young man: And we're out. Marcie: Jen, I am so sorry about -- Jen: I'm the idiot that named him. Marcie: No, no, he's not going to get away with this. I'm sorry. This is ridiculous. Rae: In fact, Dr. Haver is not only on the board -- the grievance board -- but he chairs it. Marcie: Exactly. Stephen: Listen, maybe now that you've come forward, other young women will come forward, too. Jen: Yeah, maybe. You know, I'm done. I'm done here. Marcie: No, no, Jen, listen the show's not over yet. Jen: There's nothing else I can do. Marcie: Jen, come on, wait! Listen -- Rae: You know what, Marcie? I'll go after her, all right? Ok, see you guys later. Jessica: Thanks. Marcie: Thank you. I just -- I don't know what else -- I don't know what else to do. What now? Stephen: I'll be blunt. We need to find at least one more woman to testify against Professor Barnes. *** Radio announcer: And you don't want to miss this. Midnight Logic will play a free concert -- Al: Tammy -- Tammy, wait. Tammy: I have to go. Al: Listen, you heard what happened on the show. You have to go on the air and talk about what Barnes did to you. Tammy: I just -- I just don't know. Al: Come on. You have a lot of people on your side. You can stop this guy! *** Marcie: If you were with us before the break, I'm really glad you're still listening. This is obviously not the place for a hearing on any individual case of sexual harassment. But if you have heard our discussion so far, you realize why it would be really hard for a victim to report it. Dr. Haver, you are actually the chair of the harassment grievance board here on campus, and that is where a student should go to make a complaint about sexual harassment. Stephen: Yes, Jen Buchanan should bring her complaint to the board, and we'll give it a full investigation. Of course, our mandate is to remain fair and impartial. But I'll tell you from experience, most upstanding people in public can have deep, dark secrets in private. Marcie: Well, quite frankly, this is one secret that has been on this campus for way too long. You know, I have talked to many young women who have had the same experience as Jen. Jessica: Yes, Marcie, but students have to go on the record. I mean, it's a teacher's life and career on the line. The committee can't just rely on gossip alone. Marcie: Yeah -- no, no, I completely hear that point. And, you know, you are right, but I just don't see why this has to go on. You know, if we can find one -- at least one other person who is willing to back up what Jen said, it would make a huge difference. Tammy: I will. *** Antonio: When did you last see Flash? Riley: Last night. She never came home. John: Riley, look at me. Are you sure this is Flash's? Riley: Look, I know her stuff and I know something is wrong, so just tell me! Antonio: She was murdered last night. ****
Marcie: So when Tammy told her story on the radio, the phone lines just started ringing off of the hook. All these other undergrads started calling in and saying that they had the same bad experiences with Professor Barnes, and they're all willing to testify at the H.G.B. Al: I got to tell you, the show was terrific. I've never seen so many college kids gathered around a radio before. Marcie: It really turned out great. I mean, I have got to find Jen and Rae because they were really worried about how it was going to turn out, especially Jen. Al: Yeah, she'd probably be pretty happy to find out that Tammy showed up, huh? Marcie: Tammy told me that you convinced her. Al: I gave her a little push in the right direction. Marcie: Hmm. Al: You know what, she only did what she wanted to do from the very beginning anyway. Marcie: Well, I want to thank you for that because I really appreciate it. Al: Well, congratulations. You really kicked butt. ***
Jen: God, why did I have to say his name? Lindsay: Marcie should've never put you in that position. Jen: Marcie didn't do anything wrong. We all want to stop Barnes. He's a complete creep. Rex: Yeah, but Marcie shouldn't have expected you to come in alone, not after that other girl bailed. Jen: She didn't hold a gun to my head. She actually gave me an out. I just wanted to do the right thing for once, and of course I screwed it up. What if Barnes tries to sue me? Lindsay: Well, we'll have to get a lawyer and prove he's a liar. Jen: Yeah, that will bring up all the horrible things I've done in my past. That ought to be fun. Lindsay: Well, he knows he's guilty. He's not going to want to see this played out in a court of law. Jen: Maybe you're right. What are you doing here, anyway? Lindsay: I -- I brought the sculpture to -- it's a thank-you to him for helping me out last night. Jen: Helping you? How? Lindsay: Well -- he came over and was very supportive, which I appreciated because the police thought I was out of my mind. Jen: You didn't tell me that he came over last night. Lindsay: Oh, I'm sure I -- I think I did. Jen: Um, I think I would've remembered that. Lindsay: No, I'm pretty sure I did. I guess I must have a lot on my mind. Jen: Well, I'm taking off. You are coming with me, right, mom? Lindsay: Oh, yeah. Oh -- thanks again. Rex: No problem. I love the sculpture, but it's -- well, it's way too much. I really need to pay you back somehow. Maybe dinner. Jen: Leave her alone! Rex: Hey, she came to see me just like you did! Lindsay: Ok. ***
Marcie: Hey, Michael. Al: Oh, my god. I have been looking everywhere for you. Marcie: I thought I told you I went back to the radio station. I wanted to call Jen. Al: Yeah, I know. I checked there for you, too. Marcie: Well, I actually also went to the dean's office. You will never believe this. Professor Barnes -- he resigned. Al: That's great. Marcie: What's wrong? Al: A student was murdered last night. Marcie: What? Al: They found the body during your radio show. Marcie: Do they know who it is? Al: No, the police haven't released a name yet. ***
January 27, 2004
Luna: You've come a long way, Darling, which is another way of saying you've brought Michael a long way, too. Al: You know, it's strange. A lot of time, I don't feel like I'm trapped in somebody else's body. Luna: Al -- Al: The problem is -- Luna: Darling, you got weeks before Valentine’s Day. Al: Two, Luna. I got two weeks, and I'm scared. Luna: Listen to me. You're going to be able to pull this rabbit out of your hat. Trust me on that one now. Al: If I can get Marcie to fall in love with me, this me. But do you think that there's any -- I hate when she does that. Marcie: Michael. Al: Hey. Marcie: Hi. You know, it's really too bad you couldn't go to the dedication of the garden. I mean, you could have, but you were at the radio station, so -- Al: Being with you is important to me. Marcie: Right. Al: This was -- well, this was something else. Marcie: Uh-huh. Um -- you know, the person who gave this bench -- they left their name off of the plaque. Al: Well, you know, a lot of people like to remain anonymous. Marcie: Uh-huh. Michael, do you know that when the park property changes, the police have to be notified? All of the details are given, so, you know, someone at the police department knows that I know Gabrielle, I knew her really well, and so, well, I know. I know that you gave this bench. Al: Yeah. Marcie: Well, I want to know why. I mean, you know, I know that you knew her, but why would you do something like this for Al Holden’s mom? ******************** Singer: It's coming back to me, yeah it's coming back to me Al: You know, it's just a bench. It's a place where people can come and sit for a moment, you know, and enjoy the flowers that she would've -- Marcie: Are you okay? Michael? [Al sighs] Al: Yes, I'm -- I'm fine. Gabrielle was an amazing person, you know? She put her life on the line for her son when he really needed her to. Marcie: Yeah, well, it doesn't really matter now, does it, because he's dead and he's not coming back. Al: It doesn't change what she did. Marcie: Yeah. It was kind of something else, wasn't it? Al: What? Marcie: I can't figure you out. Al: Huh -- yeah. Neither can I. I mean, I know that I act like a big jerk sometimes when I'm around you, but -- Marcie: Yeah, but then other times, you act terrific. I mean, look what you did for my brother Ron and Jen. And you've even helped me. Al: Doctors are just people who know things that other people don’t. You know, every once in a while, we step in and we help. Marcie: Yeah, but that's what -- exactly what I don't get. Sometimes you reach out and you help other people, and then other times it's like you're this -- Al: Jerk. Marcie: Total -- well, I didn't want to say it, but yeah. [Marcie laughs] Al: Yeah, I know. Listen, do you think maybe we could forget about all that jerk stuff and just sort of move past it? Marcie: Maybe. Al: That would mean a lot to me. Marcie: Okay. You know, I still have that record of your Mom’s. Al: Right. Marcie: Maybe I could bring it over to you and maybe you could call her. Al: You know, my Mom and I, we're not really -- Marcie: I know, you're kind of on the outs. But you never know -- when you reach out, you might -- well, you never know what could happen. ************************************** Marcie: Hi, Michael. Al: Oh, Marcie, there you are. I've been so worried about you. Marcie: Why? The campus is still crawling with cops. Did they find out who the victim was yet? Al: No. Marcie: The whole thing is really creepy, isn't it? Al: Yeah. Marcie: Well, I finally found it -- Al: Oh. Marcie: The album. It was in a box full of stuff that I still have to bring over to Jen’s later, so -- Al: That is so weird. My mom. You know, I -- I've never even heard this. Marcie: You know, she was really beautiful. Al: I got to find a record player someplace. Marcie: I actually think that there's one in the lobby of the hotel that you're staying at. Al: Yeah. Figures. Weird old place. Marcie: Yeah, it is kind of weird. Al: Well, thanks for this. Marcie: Yeah. You know, after you listen to it, maybe you could call your mom and you could talk to her about it. Al: You know, I'm not sure she'd want me to call. Marcie: I don't think you're right about that. Did you ever see what it says here on the back in the liner notes? "I sang these songs for the two most important men in my life -- my two sons, John and Michael." *********************************************** Al: I'm really sorry. I didn't mean to upset you. Marcie: No, I -- I'm sorry. I didn't mean to go to pieces on you like this. You know, talk about "Kiss the girls and make them cry," huh? I'm going to give you such a complex. You're going to be on a psychiatric couch the rest of your life! Al: No, I won't, okay? I'm -- I'm going to be fine. Marcie: Well, I won’t. I -- I can't do this. Al: Do what? Marcie: This. Michael, I can't do this. It's -- it's not fair. It's not right! Al: Marcie, we kissed. It was mutual. I didn't force myself on you or anything. I mean -- Marcie: No. Al: You seemed to like it. Come on, Marce. Be fair here, okay? Marcie: No, it's -- it's not fair. This is not fair to Al. I love him. Michael, I'm never going to love anybody else but him, and I -- okay. Okay, right. You know what? You are right. I have started to like you, but do you want to know why I like you? I like you because of all the ways that you remind me of Al! Al: Well, Marcie, I'll take pretty much anything I can get, okay? Marcie: No -- Al: Come on. Don't push me away, all right? Please, don't stop seeing me. Marcie: I -- oh, hi, Mrs. Davidson. Do you know what's going on? Viki: Hi, Marcie. No. Hello, hello. Al: Hi. Viki: No, I -- I don't really. The police haven't released the name of the latest victim yet. I have to actually go and record an announcement. I'm cancelling all nonacademic activities until further notice. Marcie: Oh. Viki: Yeah. Oh, good. Excuse me -- Marcie: Bye. *********************************************** Al: Listen, Marcie, I know that Jen’s in class right now. If you want to hang out -- Marcie: No -- Al: You don't have to be alone, honestly -- Marcie: No, I really think I'll go see my brother Ron if I need to be around people. Al: Which also happens to be where I live. Marcie, come on. Why don't you come with me and we'll listen to this record together, okay? Come on. Marcie: Michael -- okay. *********************************************** Marcie: And you know what? I really can't wait to meet your mom. Al: Well, that'd be kind of hard -- yeah, right. Marcie: You think she might be willing to come to Llanview, see her boys? Al: You know, I -- I just -- John. Hey. John: Hey. Al: Buddy, what are you -- what are you doing here, man? I thought you'd be back in Jersey by now. John: Me, too. Case took a turn for the worse. Marcie: We know. We heard. Do they know who it was yet? John: We can't really say anything till the next of kin's been notified. Marcie: The family must be devastated. John: Yeah. Is that what I think it is? Al: Yeah. Marcie gave it to me. It's Mom's album. John: I had one. It got broke in the move. Have you talked to Mom lately? Al: Not since Christmas. John: You know, maybe we could, you know, make an effort and, you know, try to get down to A.C. sometime. Marcie: Will you guys excuse me? John: Sure. Al: Yeah. I guess -- John: Think about it. Al: You know? John: I know you're busy. *********************************************** Marcie: Yes. Hi, listen; can I have a number in Atlantic City? Eve McBain. *********************************************** Al: So, Marcie gave this to me, and I figured that, you know, you and I could give it a listen together. John: Yeah, what the heck. I got a minute. Al: Marcie said there was a record player down here somewhere, but I don't know -- John: I think I saw someone do something over here one time. Al: All right. Marcie: Yes, Mrs. McBain? Yes. No, hi, listen, you don’t know me, but I am a friend of Michael and John’s. No, no, no, no, everything's okay. I'm here in Llanview. Yeah, right now. Well, the reason that I'm calling is, well, I was thinking about having a little dinner party, and I was wondering if you would be willing to come to Llanview to visit. *********************************************** Eve: Got a special wish that means so much to me hope someday I'll be the one you care for like when you hold me safe and warm in all my dreams precious dear you're the one love I adore may seem funny but each time I think of you troubles I'm going through fade in a heartbeat I feel your presence and then life is heavenly thanks to you the one that I adore ***********************************************
January 28, 2004
Jen: Okay, yes, yes, I like your brother, but I'm still married. You know, I'd like to think there's still a chance with Joe. Marcie: I know. Listen, I just thought that, you know, you'd have fun with Ron, someone other than Rex. Jen: Okay, what about you having fun with somebody else? Marcie: I do not like Michael McBain. Jen: I was talking about Greg. Marcie: Oh. Thanks. Thanks, Carmen. Jen: Yeah, thanks. So, what's going on with Michael? Marcie: Nothing. Nothing at all. Jen: Is that a fact? *********************************************** John: There's no change in Flash. What about MacIver? Al: He's right in there. We pumped his stomach. We think he's going to make it, basically, because of you. One of the guards told me that it was your decision to get him out of there. If you'd waited a couple minutes longer, he'd be on a slab downstairs. John: In that case, can I see him? Al: No. He's really out of it. John: What do you got there? That his chart? Al: Yeah, here. Take a look. I don't think I've showed you this. John: I know some recreation stuff floats around in the joint, but where did he get all this? Al: Oh, the same place he got the other drugs in his system. John: What other drugs? Al: Turn the page. Here, look, we found three different hallucinogens in his bloodstream. Looks like he's been taking them for a while. John: Hey, would this make him paranoid, I don't know, psychotic? Al: Yeah, psychotic, delusional. I mean, we're talking about a total whack job here. This guy's brain is crispy, french-fried. John: Eloquent as always, Michael. It's good to see some things don't change. Al: Wait a second, man. I've changed, a little. Haven't I? John: You know what, you're right. You have changed. *********************************************** Marcie: Michael and I? We are just friends. I tried to tell him that when he kissed me. Jen: He kissed you? Marcie: Well, it's not like what you're thinking. Jen: Then why are you blushing? Marcie: I am not blushing! I -- like I said, we are just -- Jen: Just friends, right. Marcie: That's all it can ever be, Jen. Jen: Why? Marcie: I love Al. I'll always love Al, even if he is gone. Jen: Well, you can still love Al and love somebody else, too. Marcie: I don't think I can. He was the love of my life, Jen. And I made that very clear to Michael. Jen: But is it even possible to be just friends with a guy? David: Lindsay, do you think I could borrow your date for the briefest of moments? Lindsay: It's not a date; it's a business lunch. Rex: And you'll have to wait till we're through. David: So how is business? Lindsay: It's very good, thank you. David: Well, good. You know, I had no idea those Carlivatis were fake. I feel very bad about that, and here's what I'm going to do -- I want to buy a painting from you for a friend. Lindsay: Well, you're welcome to come by the gallery anytime. Just make sure you bring cash. ********
Al: Hey. Marcie: Hey. Al: You mind if I have a seat? Marcie: Yeah, sure, go ahead. You okay? Al: I am wiped out. Tough day at the E.R. But it's getting better already. Marcie: Michael, you remember what we agreed on? Al: Yes, just friends. But I can still tell you you're beautiful, can't I? [Phone rings] Marcie: Oh, excuse me. Hello? Hi. I have to take this. Be right back. Hey. Al: What are you smiling at? Luna: What? Al: I'm losing here, or haven't you noticed? Luna: Don't tell me you're giving up! Al: Two weeks, Luna. I have two weeks to get her to fall in love with me or there is no me. Did you hear that comment about us just being friends? Luna: Darling, sometimes the greatest of lovers are the greatest of friends, too, you know. Al: I am running out of time, Luna. Luna: You are right on schedule! You're closer than you think. *********************************************** Marcie: Thanks for getting back to me, Mrs. McBain. So have you checked your calendar? Yeah, well, which night is good for you to come to Llanview and have dinner with Michael and John? *********************************************** Al: You can talk all you want about the world's greatest lovers, okay, because none of them had a deadline. Luna: Would you have a little faith, for goddess' sake? Marcie: I'm sorry about that. Al: No, it's -- it's okay. Listen, are you busy tomorrow night? Greg: Marcie. Marcie: Greg. Greg: I've been looking all over for you. Marcie: Hi. I thought you were skiing. Greg: Oh, I just got back. And guess who's got tickets to your favorite group tomorrow night. *********************************************** Marcie: Listen, I -- I would really like to go to this concert, it sounds like it's fun, but, I'm sorry, but I -- I have plans tomorrow night. So -- Greg: Okay. Well, I'll call, then. Marcie: Okay. Greg: Okay. Marcie: Bye. Greg: Bye. Marcie: Hey, sorry. Al: No. So, you're going to that concert tomorrow night with Greg? Marcie: Yeah, no. You know, I already had plans. Hopefully, with you. ***********************************************
January 30, 2004
Marcie: Ow! Oh! Jen: Lose something? Marcie: No, just my mind. Jen, I've never done this before. I want everything to be perfect. Do you think I should rearrange the place cards? Jen: It doesn't matter where anybody sits. It'll be fine. Marcie: Why don't you stay, please? Jen: Jessica and Natalie hate me. It'd be a disaster. Marcie: No. Jen: You got so many new friends lately. Marcie: Well, yes, but you're my best friend. Come on, you know that. Jen: Marcie -- Marcie: Does this have something to do with Rex? Is he trying to turn you against me? *****
Al: Hey, John, if you're ready, man, I'll give you a ride over to Marcie’s. John: Yeah, I don't know if I'm going to make it, Michael. Al: What do you mean? You got to go. Listen, she's cooking all kinds of food, and she's got some surprise she's all excited about, man. She wants to surprise us. You got to go. John: Yeah? Think maybe the killer will take the night off to have a cocktail and some dinner? Al: You told her that you were coming. John: Hey, that was before Flash ended up half dead. Al: Listen to me, big brother. If you mess this up for me, if you upset Marcie because you didn't show up, I won't soon forget it. *********************************************** Marcie: You didn't answer my question. Jen: I haven't even seen Rex. I think he has a new girlfriend. Marcie: Does that bother you? Jen: Why should it? Anyway, I'm talking about you. You've changed. When I first met you, you were just this total loner. Marcie: Yeah. I was pathetic. Jen: No. You were just someone who didn’t try to follow the herd like most people. Marcie: No, face it, Jen, nobody wanted to hang out with me, okay? I mean, I studied all the time. I got straight A's. I volunteered for the yearbook. Listen, I was around tons of people, and I was lonely all the time until I met Al. He changed me. I don't want to go back to that other person ever again. Jen: I liked the old you. Marcie: No, you didn’t. And if I were you, I wouldn't have wanted me hanging around, either. Jen: At least you had time for me back then. Marcie: Jen, Al made me into a happier person, and I like having new friends. I like meeting new people. Don't you want me to be happy? [Doorbell rings] Marcie: Oh, no, everybody's here. What am I going to do? Nothing's ready! [Timer rings] Marcie: No, those are the potatoes. Jen: It's all right. I'll get the door. Marcie: Oh, can you answer the door? Jen: Yes. Marcie: Thank you. Oh, excuse me. And please stay hot! *********************************************** Al: Uh -- Jen. Hi. Jen: Hi. Al: Marcie around? Jen: She's in the kitchen. You know what? I've been thinking about you. Al: Why? Jen: You know, what you did for me in the emergency room. I want to repay you somehow. *********************************************** [Phone rings] Antonio: Is that you or me? Marcie: Oh -- I think it's you. [Marcie laughs] Antonio: Here, I'll trade you. Marcie: Sure. There you go. [Ring] Antonio: Antonio Vega. John: Our guy called again. Is Natalie there? Antonio: No, not yet. Why? John: This guy's a watcher. He knows people that I know, so -- Marcie: Hey. Come on in. Antonio: You know, actually, she just got here. She's fine. What about you? You coming? [John sighs] John: Yeah, I guess I better. Look, keep an eye on her till I get there. *********************************************** Al: Jennifer, you got to stop thanking me, okay? You came into the E.R. with alcohol poisoning, and I helped you out, okay? That's what doctors do. Jen: I just can't believe you're only a first-year resident. Al: Yeah, well, I can. You should ask my attending, actually. Jen: You know what? I have never gone out with a doctor before. Al: Really? Well, you're not missing much. We're not that fun. Excuse me. Marcie: I'm really glad you could make it. Thank you. *********************************************** [Doorbell rings] Ron: Hey, Sis! Marcie: Oh, hey, great! Thank you for picking that up. How are you? Ron: Well, it helps to have a brother who lives next door to a bakery. Marcie: Yeah, yes, it does. Why don't you stay? I'll put another place setting for you. Ron: No, no, no, no, no, no. No, I'm not staying. You know me. I'm not into dinner parties. You know that. Marcie: Yes, I do know that. That's why I didn't give you a hard time about it. But if you stay, maybe Jen will, you know? What do you think? Ron: Well, actually -- Marcie: No, I think you need to convince him to stay. Ron: Yeah, actually -- actually, I had a feeling you might like to escape tonight. What do you think? Jen: How'd you know? Ron: I'm psychic. So what do you say? Want to go to a movie? Jen: I've got a better idea. Let's go dancing. *********************************************** Music plays] Jen: Hey. Rex: Hey. Jen. Thought you'd be home in your P.J.s, eating a gallon of ice cream and crying over chick flicks with Miss Piggy. Ron: All right, you know what? Not one more word about my sister. You got it? Not one from you! You know, I -- I really wanted to go see a movie, so, what do you say? You want to get out of here? Jen: I actually wanted to watch Midnight Logic's tribute to Flash. Ron: Yeah. So tell me the truth, Jen. Is that the only reason you wanted to come here? *********************************************** Antonio: Hey, you finally made it. Al: Hey. John: May I? Antonio: Yeah, go. Al: Bro, it's about time. Listen, Marcie made all this great food. You should come try some. John: I'll be right over. Al: All right. *********************************************** Jessica: Maybe it's none of my business. Marcie: What's up? Jessica: It's just -- I don't know. When I got here, I saw Jen flirting with Michael, and it was pretty obvious. Marcie: Oh, well, you know, that's their business. Jessica: You don't care? Marcie: No -- you know, Michael and I -- we're friends, and I don't like him that way. Jessica: But I think he likes you. Marcie: Well, yes, he does, but, you know, there's not a moment that goes by that I'm not thinking of Al, so -- [Car approaches] Marcie: Oh. Maybe that's my mystery guest. Excuse me. Al: Hey, hey, hey! Is everything okay? Marcie: Oh, yeah, sure. It's quite all right. Al: Listen, I brought you another book. You like George Pratt? Marcie: Yes, actually. You know, Charles Larken is one of my favorite detectives. He's so funny. Al: Hilarious, right? Marcie: I was on the plane reading it, and everybody thought I was crazy, I was laughing so much. Al: Yeah, it's one of my favorites. Marcie: It's really funny. [Doorbell rings] Marcie: Oh -- God, I'll be right back, okay? Al: Okay. Marcie: I am so glad that you could come. Everybody is here. Are you ready? Everybody, look who's here! Woman: Hi, everyone. Natalie: That's -- John: My mother. Eve: Hi, Darling. John: Hi, Mom. Good to see you. You look pretty. Eve: Thanks. Still the same Michael. Waiting for me to speak first when I come through a door. Do you remember when you were little, what you always made me say before you'd hug me? Al's voice: Uh-oh. *****
Rex: So, what are you doing with Marcie's brother? Do you like him? Jen: I would like to like him. Rex: The way you wanted to love Joe? Because he's such a fine, upstanding, card-carrying nice guy? Ron: Here you go. Jen: Wait. What's that? Ron: It's diet ginger ale. Jen: No, no. I wanted tequila. Ron: They were out, all out. Rex: Oh. No, don't worry. I know where they keep the stuff. Jen: Thank you. Ron: Look, Jen, I was hoping we wouldn't have to party like idiots tonight. I'd much rather get to know you. Jen: Okay. Now you know I like tequila. Ron: I took you to the hospital with alcohol poisoning. What's wrong with you? Are you trying to kill yourself? Jen: It's only one drink. Ron: You know, I'm going to head to that movie after all. If you want to come, spend a night without Rex and booze, that would be great. If not, then I guess I'll see you around. Okay. *********************************************** Marcie: Michael, is there something wrong? Al's voice: Michael doesn't remember being a kid. He blocked it out. Al: Um -- I'm sorry, Mom. I guess I just don't remember a lot from back then. I'm really happy to see you, though. Eve: Your brain's probably too crowded with all that medical stuff. Oh, baby. Ooh. Oh, this is extraordinary. John: Hmm. Eve: Thank you, Marcie. If it hadn't been for you, heaven knows when the three of us would be in the same room again. Marcie: No. Eve: Until next Christmas. Marcie: No. I'm just glad I could help. And I've wanted to meet you ever since I heard your record. Eve: Do you like it? Marcie: You have an amazing voice. Eve: Thanks. Jessica: Oh, Marcie sings, as well. Marcie: Oh, yeah. No, that's not a big deal. Eve: Oh. Jessica: Hi. I'm Jessica Buchanan. Eve: Hello. Jessica: And this is Antonio. Antonio: Oh. Sorry. Hi. I work with John. Eve: It's wonderful to meet you all -- almost everyone. Natalie: Hi. I'm Natalie. Eve: Hi. John: She grew up in Atlantic City, too. Eve: An A.C. girl! John: Hmm, one of those. Eve: All right. Do you know about the buried treasure? Natalie: Oh, do I? Roxy, the woman that raised me, used to take me out every weekend to dig up Captain Kidd's gold. Jessica and Antonio: Are you serious? Natalie: Oh, yeah. We probably dug up the entire beach at one point or another. She called it the ultimate score. Marcie: Well, I bet you did all the digging. [Natalie chuckles] Eve: Here's a tough one -- do you know the name of the Margate elephant statue? Natalie: Lucy. Eve: The family name of the Jersey Devil? Natalie: Leeds. And if you hear Leeds' name, you better run away. Al: Roxy, again? Natalie: Yeah. John: I got one. How about the largest ball of twine? Eve: Oh. Natalie: Well, I know -- I used to know this. Jessica: Wow, you really are from another world. Eve: Atlantic City's not like anyplace else. John: Come on, give up. You're stumped. Natalie: No! It's on the tip of my tongue! John: Hmm. Eve: See, honey? A lot of people forget things. Al: I want to remember, Mom. I want to hold on to every minute. Listen, why don't you tell me everything, okay? You can start right from the beginning, and you just tell me all of it, okay, and this time I promise to show you how much I love you. Jessica: Wow, you really turned out to be a nice guy. I mean, you kind of remind me of Al a little bit. *********************************************** Eve: I really have to get back. I've got a show to do. John: Never a night off, huh? Eve: We're two of a kind, right, kiddo? No sleep, no nightmares. So, you and Natalie -- John: Friends. Eve: Nothing more? John: No. Eve: I hope this isn't the kiss of death, but I like her. John: I knew you would. Her husband just died, so, you know -- Eve: You deserve someone nice. John: Have you heard anything I just said? Eve: Oh, yeah. You know me. Never miss a trick. Listen; be nice to your brother. Go easy on him. John: Yeah, I will. Eve: Come here. John: Bye, Mom. Eve: I love you. John: I love you, too. *********************************************** Eve: Thank you so much for inviting me tonight. I hope I can return the favor in Atlantic City. Marcie: I would love to come over. Eve: Bye. Marcie: Bye. Eve: Showtime. Marcie: Bye. Be safe. Eve: Thanks. *********************************************** John: Do me a favor. Make sure Natalie gets home okay, all right? I'm going to go by the station, see if they got any prints off that phone booth at L.U. Okay? Antonio: You got it. John: Good night. Jessica: Good night. Antonio: All right, good night, John. Still thinking about twine, huh? Natalie: Yeah, you know what? I know -- I know I'm going to remember this the minute I get home. John: Yeah, yeah. Natalie: You know, tonight was a lot more fun than I thought it would be. John: Hey, look, I don't want to break the mood or anything, and I don't want to spook you, but this guy that we're after -- he seems to know things, and I'm worried. I -- I want you to think about some police protection. Natalie: Thank you, that's very sweet, but come on, I'm a tough girl. I'm a tough Jersey girl! I'm fine. John: Yeah, look, I know you're a tough girl. I'm not trying to cramp your style or anything. I'm just -- do me a favor and play it safe. Okay? And if you need me, if you need anything, do not hesitate to call me, day or night. You understand? Natalie: Thank you. John: You're welcome. That wasn't that hard, was it? Good night. Natalie: Good night. *********************************************** John: Marcie -- Marcie: Hey. John: Thank you for having me. Marcie: Oh, it was my pleasure. John: I actually had a good time. Marcie: Well, I'm glad. John: You did good tonight. Marcie: Bye. *********************************************** Antonio: Marcie, I want to thank you. Marcie: Oh, you're welcome. Thank you for coming. Antonio: All right. Natalie: Thank you. Jessica: Thanks, Marcie. Antonio: Put on your coat. It's cold. Marcie: Good night. Yes. Antonio: Michael, take care of yourself. Al: Yes. Thanks a lot. Jessica: Bye, Michael. Marcie: Bye, everybody. Al: See you. Jessica: Thank you. Marcie: Oh. You're still here. Al: Yeah. Do you need a hand cleaning up? Marcie: Yeah. No, no, I -- I've got it under control. Al: Well, it's really not a problem. I mean, I'm not tired, and -- well, I'd like to repay you. You did so much for me tonight. Marcie: I did? Al: You gave me back my mother tonight. I didn't think that was ever going to happen, and I'd like to repay you somehow. Marcie: No, listen now, you know, I don't have my mother anymore, but you do, so I just thought that if you saw her, then, you know, you would get back together. It would be -- well, you know –
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