EPISODE 85

 

“SLIP OF THE TONGUE”

Scene: Covington Bay High School; Music Room #1. Nina Tamakai is there, playing a Mozart tune on the piano. There is a serene look on her face as she is lost of the lyrical notes of the music she played. Nikki Lassiter appears in the doorway and pauses, watching as her best friend played. A slight smile formed in Nikki's face as the music continued for the next few minutes. Nina finished and Nikki responded with applause, startling the young Asian-American pianist.

Nina: (looking up, startled) Nikki!

Nikki: (smiling as she walked into the room)  Hey, girlfriend. I didn't mean to startle you.

Nina: That's okay. Sometimes I just get lost in the music.

Nikki:  And you're very good at it too. (She smiled) You're going to be wonderful at the recital this weekend.

Nina: That's what everyone keeps telling me. (Anxiety flickered across her face) So why can't I get rid of these butterflies?

Nikki: Well, nervousness is natural in this type of situation. But, trust me, you're going to be great. And I am going to be in the front row applauding as loudly as I can.

Nina: (gratefully) Thanks. I'm certainly going to need my friends to get through the night.

Nikki: (sighing as sat down in a chair next to the piano) You know, I'm so envious of you.

Nina: Why?

Nikki: You look so happy when you play the piano…it seems to give you such joy.

Nina: (nodding)  I have to admit it makes me happier than anything else...there's nothing like it. But why would that make you so envious? You're a great writer and I know you love it.

Nikki: You're right, I do. But I haven't had much time for writing these days. I've even had to turn down a couple of assignments for the school paper.

Nina: Why?

Nikki: Because I've gotten so involved with finding Candice's killer. (Pause) I'm starting to wonder what I was thinking by getting myself into this mess.

Nina: I thought you were committed to helping Nathan?

Nikki: I was...I am.  But now everything has gotten so complicated.

Nina: With Richie...or James?

Scene: Covington Bay High School; the Boys Locker Room. Richie Stone walks out of the shower, a towel wrapped around his waist. The locker is full of young teenage boys, shouting and laughing with one another. Richie walks to his locker and after dialing the combination of the lock, opens it. As he starts to pull his clothes out, Marc Tamakai walked up to him.

Richie: Hey.

Marc: (glancing around to see if there was anyone standing close by before talking) Did you find Nikki?

Richie: No, net yet.

Marc: Well, it's lunchtime now. You can probably catch Nikki in the cafeteria.

Richie: (nodding as he started to dress) Yes, unless she's avoiding me and right now she's so angry, she just might do that.

Marc: Well Richie, you can't let this go on. You and Nikki have to work things out.

Richie: (angrily) Don't you think I know that!?

Marc:  So what are you going to do to fix things?  There is a lot at stake here. We have to keep Nikki on track. She has to keep working to prove Greyhawk killed Candice.

Richie: I know that. If she doesn't, our plan goes up in smoke!

Scene: Outside the Covington Bay City Courthouse.   It is a bright, sunny mid-morning.  Amidst the throng of milling lawyers, defendants and the general public, Sabrina Collier is standing outside the building, her cellular phone to her ear.   The dark haired attorney looks upset as she talks.

Sabrina: (in a disappointed tone)  David, I meant to be at the hospital by now, but I got delayed at the courthouse.

David's Voice: (reassuringly)  That's okay. You still coming by?

Sabrina: (nodding)  I have to.  I want to see how Gloria is doing.   She was so upset about what happened.

David's Voice:  Who could blame her?  That was quite a stunt Glenn pulled to keep her married to him.

Sabrina:  You haven't seen Gloria around the hospital, have you?

David's Voice: No, but I've been keeping Polly Johnson company most of the day…I've hardly left the ICU.

Sabrina: I see. How is Mrs. Johnson's son?

David's Voice: The same. He hasn't revived and the doctors don't know if or when he will.

Sabrina: I'm sorry.

David's Voice: So am I. (Pause) Unfortunately, I have to be leaving here for the rectory soon so we can't get together and have some coffee like we planned.

Sabrina: (sighing) The perils of a working couple. What's your schedule like for tonight?

David's Voice: I'm not sure yet. What about you?

Sabrina: Same here. But I'll let you know later.

David's Voice: Do that. I'd like to see you sometime today.

Sabrina: (smiling) I feel the same way. I love you, sweetie.

David's Voice: Love you too. Bye.

Sabrina: Bye. (Sabrina hung up)

Voice: Mrs. Collier?

Sabrina: (turning to see Patricia) Patricia, hello.

Patricia: Hi, Mrs. Collier. (Pause)  Do you have a minute, I really need to talk to you.

Sabrina: I really don't have a lot of time.  If this about me handling your divorce from A.J., I don't think…

Patricia: This isn't about A.J.. It's about my brother Michael.  I spoke to him earlier today. He told me he quit his job.

Sabrina: (regretfully; nodding) I'm afraid so.

Patricia: Well, you have to stop him. You have to make him change his mind before he makes the biggest mistake of his life!

Scene: Covington Bay Police Department; an interrogation room. Det. Jake Collier and Det. Eric Lassiter are there. Jake is standing near the door. Eric is looking out of the window down at the reporters outside the police station.

Eric: (bitterly) Vultures. They're still out there.

Jake: I have the feeling they're going to be out there for quite sometime. It's not everyday that a cop who's also a Lassiter is accused of racism and then is arrested for nearly strangling one of this town's most prominent citizens. And I'm sure your attack on that reporter won't help matters.

Eric:  Jack Rios, is one of the sleaziest journalists in the town. Have you ever seen his column in the Covington Bay Journal?

Jake: Of course I have but…

Eric: (interrupting) That slime first accused me of being guilty of attacking Danny James because he was black then implied that I not only hated my best friend Pete Cooper but killed him for the same reason. Am I just supposed listen to that kind of crap spewed by filth and do nothing!?

Jake: Look, I think what Jack Rios said was not only a lie but disgusting.  But you’re not more excused for that than attacking Nigel Greyhawk.

Eric: Jake, don't tell I should turn the other cheek while my name is dragged through the mud; that's not the kind of man I am.

Jake: And it's much better to be the kind of man who gets arrested and throws his entire career down the toilet?

Eric: (shaking his head)  It'll work itself out. There is no way the Captain is going to let the Greyhawks drive one of his top officers out of this department. And that's what this is all about, you know. The Greyhawks are out to ruin my family and destroying my career is a way to do it.

Jake: Eric, the Greyhawks may have written that article about you and there is no doubt it would've caused problems. But it would've blown over eventually and we all would've survived. But not this, not you assaulting Nigel Greyhawk, not you attacking a reporter. That is what is going to be your downfall and the Greyhawk's aren't responsible for that, you are.

Eric: (sarcastically) It's so nice to have a best friend. Your support has been inspiring.

Jake: You know something Eric, despite all you've done, I am still your best friend and you do have my support. But, I wonder who's dumber…you for refusing my help, or me for continuing to give a damn when you're so clearly determined to destroy yourself.

(At that moment, the door opened and Walter walked in)

Jake: Captain.

Walter: (nodding at Jake) Jake. (He then turned to Eric) Well, Det. Lassiter, this has been quite an eventful morning.

Eric:  Yeah, Captain.  Look, I know it's a mess, but if we put our heads together, we can work this out.

Walter:  Actually, Eric, I've already figured out how I'm going to handle this. I've scheduled a press conference so everyone can know what this department plans to do to bring this issue to an end.

Eric:  Great.  (He smirked at Jake)  See, Jake, I knew the Captain would have a way to handle this.  Now what do I have to do?

Walter:   Well, if you really want to help, you could start by handing in your resignation.

Eric:  (shocked)  What?!

Walter:  (his gray eyes turning cold and hard)  You heard me, Lassiter!  I want your resignation!  And if I don't get it then fine!    Either way, your career as a cop is over!

Scene:  Covington Bay Medical Center; the fifth floor.  Dana Cooper and Natalie Lassiter are at the nurses station, watching Zachary Dailey and Gloria Lassiter-Dailey embracing several feet away.  Dana looks enraged by the intimate encounter, her eyebrows arching in anger and her body tensing.

Dana:  What in the hell is that all about!? (Dana headed off the desk) Excuse me, I need to see what is going on.

Natalie:  (grabbing her by the arm) Whatever it is, Dana, stay out of it.

Dana:   Stay out of it!?  Are you crazy!?  That woman is all over Zachary...and in public no less.  Don't you think that's a little unprofessional!?

Natalie: No more than creating a hysterical scene…which is what you look like you're all set to do.

Dana: (pulling away from her best friend) I just want to find out what is going on. Gloria looks upset and I'd like to see what I can do to help.

Natalie: (exasperated) You don't give a damn about Gloria. You just want to see if you can remove what you perceive as a threat to your relationship with Zachary…when Gloria is no threat at all.

Dana: I know she's no threat…there's no way Zachary would want her. But that doesn't mean she doesn't want him.

Natalie: Dana, you're being ridiculous.

Dana: Why not? Gloria's not exactly a spring chicken and Zachary a young, handsome and very caring man. Maybe she's developed a thing for him. She might be looking to reclaim her lost youth or something.

Natalie: Didn't we already go through this after you followed them to Mama J.'s the other night? Zachary and Gloria are friends…good friends…everyone knows that. But it goes no further than that.

Dana:   Really?  I've always thought they were a little too close. And no matter what Gloria told me the other night, what I'm seeing proves that she's interested in Zachary.

(Several feet away, Gloria and Zachary embraced tightly, but she then stepped back from him)

Gloria: Zachary, I’m sorry… you must think me the biggest fool.  

Zachary: (pulling a handkerchief from his pocket and handed it to her)   Gloria, what’s wrong.  Why are you so upset?

Gloria: (starting to wipe her face) Zachary, I… (Realization them came over her as she looked around and saw several people, including Dana Cooper, staring at she and Zachary) I'm sorry. I really shouldn't have bothered you.  I shouldn't have done this. It won't happen again. (Gloria started to walk away)

Zachary: (turning as she rushed away) Gloria!? Gloria, wait!

Scene:  Covington Bay High School; the Music Room.  Nina and Nikki are there.

Nikki:  With Richie or James? What is that supposed to mean?

Nina:  Just that your relationship with both guys seems to be getting complicated.

Nikki:  First off, I'm not having a relationship with James Greyhawk.   First you and now Richie!

Nina:  Look, I don’t think you’re having a relationship with James Greyhawk… not in the way Richie thinks anyway.

Nikki:  Thank God for that.  At least someone believes me.  But Richie thinks that that I share whatever feelings James has for me.  Worse, he thinks I'm lying about it.  How could he even think I would ever deceive him? I have never lied to him and I certainly wouldn't start now.

Nina:   I know that… and I guess it must’ve hurt to be accused of lying.

Nikki: It was one of the most painful things I've ever heard in my life. I just couldn't listen to him…I had to get away from him.

Nina:  Well, I can tell you he's sorry for what he said.    He came to English class after it was over looking for you. He was pretty anxious to find you. So was Miss Jackson for that matter.

Nikki: (shaking her head, sighing) Great. I'm sure she had something to say about me missing class.

Nina: Of course she did, especially since it's not the first time this week.

Nikki: What did you tell her?

Nina: I told her you said you weren't feeling well and you might be taking a rest in the student lounge or something.

Nikki: Thanks for covering. I know how you feel about lying.

Nina:  It wasn't really a lie since I had no idea where you were.

Nikki:  Okay, so you remain honest on a technicality.  At any rate, the last thing I need is her calling my parents and telling them I missed class again. I'm already avoiding being grounded till my wedding day.

Nina: (hesitating) Nikki, you really ought to pay more attention to your studies. I know you've got a lot going on in your life, but you've missed a lot of school in the past few months. You've got to think about your future…you're going to be graduating next year, you know.

Nikki: I know, Nina, I know. But I'll catch up. (Pause) Besides, I really didn't feel like going to class today…not after the fight Richie and I had.

Nina:  I'm sure you'll make up...you always do.

Nikki:  Maybe.  But, Nina, all we do is fight anymore.  I'm starting to wonder if we're going to make it through this mess.

Scene:  Outside the Covington Bay County Courthouse.  Patricia and Sabrina are there.

Patricia: Mrs. Collier, what are you going to do to convince my brother to go back to work?

Sabrina: I'm going to talk to him of course.  I've called Michael and left messages for him, but he's chosen not to return any of them.

Patricia: That's because he's so darn stubborn. Why don't you go see him?

Sabrina: Believe me, Patricia, that is something I certainly intend on doing as soon as possible.

Patricia: (insistently) When?

Sabrina: (growing annoyed) Later today, I imagine. (Pause)   Look, I appreciate your concern for your brother and I know you want to help him, but I have a lot of things to do today and I will get to him when I can.

Patricia: Well, I hope you can talk him into ending this foolishness and going back to work. He's worked too hard to throw it all away.

Sabrina: I agree. Michael is a good lawyer, but he's still young and just starting out in his career. What he's chosen to do could cause him a lot of damage. However, as much as I disagree with his reasons, Michael is a very principled man and I understand why he quit.

Patricia: Michael is unfortunately too much like my father…close-minded and judgmental.  And its those attributes that has got him being so self-destructive.

Sabrina: Your brother's principles is one of the reasons I hired him. It's what makes him a good attorney. I want him back at the firm, but if he chooses not to return, I understand that. This whole thing has been difficult for him. He's never been comfortable working on the Nathan James case and it's gotten worse since I brought Lucas Greyhawk aboard.

Patricia: Then why did you hire Lucas?   You knew he and Michael would never get along because my brother is so close to A.J.   I know Lucas is supposed to be a great private investigator, but surely there are good P.I.'s right here in Covington Bay?

Sabrina: There are and I would've went with one of them, but I ran into Lucas when we were both on business in Chicago.  He told me he was coming to town to visit his family and I offered him the job. I wanted the best I could get.

Patricia: (icily) No matter how my brother felt about it?

Sabrina: Patricia, I don't know what you're trying to get at here, but let me say this. Michael told me he could handle working with Lucas. He said he was willing to put aside his personal feelings for the good of the client. Things were going fine. There weren't any real problems until…

Patricia: Until what?

Sabrina: Until you came to town and got in the middle of the feud between the Greyhawks and the Lassiters.

Patricia: (nodding) I see. So you're blaming me for this? You're saying it's my fault Michael quit his job?

Sabrina: Your brother made the decision to quit his job. But your involvement with the Greyhawks didn't help matters.

Patricia: No one understands that none of that was my fault. Quentin Greyhawk used me and my past with A.J. to hurt the Lassiters.

Sabrina: But you are still working for him, right? And according to Michael, you're dating Lucas, which you have to know will only acerbate the acrimony between Lucas and your brother.

Patricia: (annoyed) You know, I came here to help my brother…not be accused of causing his problems. I've had enough of that from Michael himself and that's not fair. I won't be blamed for this. That's why I…

Sabrina: That's why you what? Came here to talk to me? (Sabrina nodded in confirmation as Patricia looked guilty) Is that why you came here to talk to me about getting Michael to come back to work? You don't want to be blamed for his problems? God, Patricia, could you really be that selfish?

Scene: The offices of Collier and Associates. Michael walks into his office carrying a huge cardboard box. He has a regretful, melancholy look on his face as he starts packing up his office.

Voice: So I guess it's true. You're actually leaving.

Michael: (looking up to see Lucas standing in the doorway) If you're looking for Sabrina, she isn't here. I think she's in court.

Lucas: (walking in) I'm not here to see Sabrina.

Michael: Surely you're not here to see me.

Lucas: Of course not. You're always entertaining, Michael, but definitely not someone I'd seek out.

Michael: Then why are you here?

Lucas:   For the office of course. It's a little small compared to what I'm used to, but I think it'll do.

Michael: (shocked) What?

Lucas: Well, this is going to be my office.  After all you're not going to be needing it. So, how soon can you have your stuff out of here?

Scene: Covington Bay Medical Center; the fifth floor near the nurses station. Dana and Natalie are there working, but Dana is listless, absentmindedly filing charts. Natalie turns and watches her, an annoyed expression on her face.

Natalie: Dana, you just misfiled that chart.

Dana: (coming out of her thoughts, looking up at Natalie) What?

Natalie: You just misfiled that chart. You put Mr. Zales' chart under the H's.

Dana: Oh! Sorry! (She corrects her mistake) There! All fixed.

Natalie: You want to go through the rest of them and make sure you didn't misfile any others?

Dana: You can't be serious?!

Natalie: Of course I am. You certainly don't have your mind on your work…how am I supposed to know if you haven't screwed something else up!?

Dana: That's a nasty thing to say.

Natalie: Really? I hope it gets through to you. You're at work and you need to pay attention to your job.

Dana: Natalie, I got enough of that from Melody Sorensen. You're supposed to be my best friend.

Natalie: And as I keep reminding you, I am. If I weren't, you'd probably either be formally reprimanded or out of a job entirely. No one else would keep picking up your slack like I do.

Dana: Well, I can't be completely focused on mundane activity like filing these charts, but I have a lot on my mind.

Natalie: (sarcastically) Somehow between you disappearing from your post without a word and taking unauthorized breaks, I was able to figure that out.

Dana: Natalie, why can't you understand why I'm so distracted!? You saw how Zachary chased after Gloria. No doubt she's crying on his shoulder right now…wringing all the sympathy out of him that she can.

Natalie: Dana, your obsessing about Zachary Dailey is getting out of hand. This is a man you have gone on three dates with. You hardly know him.

Dana: I know enough to know I want him in my life. And if I'm going to accomplish that I need to establish a relationship with him. That means I have to get rid of the competition.

Natalie:   Gloria is not your competition. She and Zachary are family and well as friends. Like I said before, if you have anything to worry about where Zachary is concerned, it's with yourself.

Dana: Meaning?

Natalie: You're risking your job to chase after a man you are nowhere to close to having. Can you afford that? And how do you think Zachary will feel when he finds out what you're doing?

Dana: Natalie, you just don’t get it. I have to protect my interests. There's a lot riding on this.

Natalie: What? Landing Zachary? Is his money and success so important to you that you'd risk anything to get it?

Dana: (sighing) Natalie, you don't understand and I don't have time to explain it to you. I really need to be going.

Melody: (walking up) Really? And where is that? (Dana turned, glaring at Melody) Just where could you possibly be going now, Dana?

Scene: Covington Bay Medical Center; Gloria's office. Gloria rushes in, slamming the door behind her. Her face is streaked with tears and she tries to wipe them away with the damp handkerchief.

Zachary: (rushing in) Gloria!  Gloria, why did you run away from me?

Gloria: Zachary, I really don't want to talk right now. I'd like to be left alone.

Zachary: I don't think so. I think the last thing you need right now is to be alone. You obviously need a friend…why won't you let me help you?

Gloria: Because there's nothing you can do. There's nothing anyone can do.

Zachary: Really? Sounds like I could listen; give you a shoulder to lean on? Isn't that something?

Gloria: (nodding) Yes it is, Zachary. It is something. But, I can't. I just can't. Not this time.

Zachary: Why not? What makes this time any different than any others?

Gloria: (hesitating) Because…because I just don't want you to get in the middle of this. My problems with your father have created enough problems between the two of you already. I don't want there to be anymore.

Zachary: Gloria, I already told you that you are not responsible nor to blame for any problems between Dad and I. We were at each other's throats long before you came along and we probably always will be. (Pause) But why would you be having problems with Dad? I'd think after today it would be just about over. You did have your divorce hearing today, didn't you?

Gloria: Yes. It shorter than I would've liked, but yes.

Zachary: Shorter? Don't tell me there was some sort of delay?

Gloria: Oh, that's an understatement.

Zachary:  You mean there wasn't a hearing today?

Gloria: (shaking her head) No. We never even got to see the inside of a courtroom. Your father saw to that.

Zachary: He delayed the divorce again?

Gloria: Yes. And it seems I may be unable to get a divorce from him for several months at least.

Zachary: But how? I thought you said that he'd run out of tricks…that there was nothing he could do to delay things any further.

Gloria: That's what I thought. But I underestimated your father. I had no idea the lengths he'd go to stay in a marriage clearly beyond salvaging.

Zachary: What did he do?

Gloria: He… (Pause as she hesitated) …Zachary, I really don't know how to tell you this.

Zachary: Why not?

Gloria: Because given how you feel about your father, I can only imagine how you'll react to what he's done.

Zachary: Gloria, I couldn't hate my father anymore than I already do.

Gloria: Really? After the stunt he pulled today, I despise him more than I ever thought possible.

Scene:  Covington Bay High School; the Music Room.  Nina and Nikki are there.

Nina: Nikki, I just can't believe that Richie would do this? Being so suspicious…accusing you of lying. It just doesn't sound like the Richie I know.

Nikki: Nina, Richie has changed. He's gotten so unreasonable…so untrusting about everything and everyone. He's nothing like the boy I fell in love with. Since Candice died and Nathan was arrested for her murder nothing has been the same. And I've always tried to understand because no matter what happened, Richie and I always had each other. I knew we loved each other and could rely on each other. The last thing I expected was for Richie to turn on me especially since this whole thing was his idea. I'm only anywhere near Greyhawk because Richie wanted me to get proof he killed Candice.

Nina: There wasn't anything specific that made him accuse you of this?

Nikki: It was the fight. Richie says that because I said it was wrong for him to attack James that I was turning against him and that things have gotten personal between James and I.

Nina:  I see.

Nikki: I see?  What do you mean by that?

Nina: Well, Nina, does Richie have reason to be upset? Has this situation between you and James gotten personal?

Nikki: (surprised) Nina, do you realize what you're asking…what you're accusing me of?  Just a minute ago you said you were on my side… that you believed me.

Nina: Nikki, I'm not accusing you of anything. I know you love Richie and you want to help him and you would never do anything to betray him.

Nikki: Then where is this coming from?

Nina:   After you took off with Richie after the fight earlier today, James and I talked.

Nikki: About what?

Nina: About you mostly. Nikki, he's very concerned about you. He was afraid that Richie might hurt you.

Nikki: I hope you told him that's ridiculous.

Nina: Of course I did. I told him he doesn’t know Richie or you and he has no right to comment on your relationship.

Nikki: Good. I hope it's finally clear to him.

Nina: So he's said these things to you too?

Nikki: Yes. He says Richie isn't good enough for me…that I deserve better.

Nina: The same thing he said to me.

Nikki: (angrily) That smug, egotistical jackass! I suppose he told you he thought he was a better guy for me to be involved with!?

Nina: Not really. But I definitely got the feeling he wants it that way.

Nikki: Well I certainly don't. And I've told James that. He just refuses to believe it. And Richie's accusations don't make it any better. (Pause) I can't believe this has gotten so complicated! Both James and Richie are tugging at me…pulling at me…and I don't know how I can stay involved with James without him thinking there's more to this than just me trying to clear him of murder and keep Richie from constantly blowing his top out of jealousy. I'm caught in the middle.

Nina: Well, maybe that's a position you should get yourself out of. Considering all that's happened, maybe you better rethink this entire plan of yours.

Scene: Covington Bay High School. Marc and Richie walk out of the locker room and walk down the hallways.

Marc: So you're going to talk to Nikki…tell her you trust her and that you know she'd never get involved with Greyhawk?

Richie: Yes, of course.

Marc: And you also need to control your temper. You can't fly off the handle at the drop of a hat or attack Greyhawk because he looks at you the wrong way.

Richie: I am well aware of that too, Marc, but it isn't easy.

Marc: None of this is easy. But until Greyhawk is behind bars and Nathan is free, none of this is going to be resolved.

Richie: You're right. (Pause) However, we do need to slow down Nikki's investigation just a little bit.

Marc: Why?

Richie: The diary of course… Candice's diary. We have to find it. We have to get to it before Nikki does. That is a piece of evidence we just can't let keep lying around.

Marc: You really think Candice could've wrote what she knew in it?

Richie: According to Nikki, Candice wrote everything she thought was important in the diary. If that's true, we are probably star attractions in it.

Marc: (grimly) You're probably right. Okay, how are we going to find it? Where do we even look?

Richie: I don't know…but we have to get to it before anyone else does…especially Nikki. We can't afford to have the truth come out…not after all we've done to keep it hidden.

Scene: Outside the Covington Bay Police Department. There are dozens of reporters and cameramen out in front. A.J. approaches the scene.

Voice: Lassiter!

A.J.: (turning as a leanly built Hispanic man walked towards him. The man was darkly handsome, with thick, jet black hair and dark brown eyes. He wore a Cheshire Cat grin on his face, exposing his gleaming white teeth.) Well, if it isn't Jack Rios. (A.J.'s voice was full of disdain)

Jack: Hello, A.J.. I'm surprised you weren't here earlier. You missed your brother being taken in. He cut quite the dashing figure with his hangdog expression and the handcuffs on his wrists. It'll make a great lead story for the evening edition of the Times. You wouldn't care to make a comment, would you?

A.J.: None that you could print.

Jack: Then how a comment about your little problem with a girlfriend and a wife?

A.J.: Go to hell, Rios!

Jack: You know I haven't had the pleasure of meeting Mrs. Lassiter yet, but I'm looking forward to it. Word around the office is that she's quite the looker.  

A.J.: Rios, if you don't shut up, I'll…!

Jack: Are you going to take a swing at me like your brother?   I guess violence does run in the family, doesn’t it?

A.J.:   As much as I hate violence, I’m sure you deserved it if he wanted to slug you, knowing you to be the bottom scraper that you are.

Jack:   Well this bottom scraper is about to make you and that paper of yours obsolete in this town.

A.J.:   Rios, you wouldn't be the first hack with a few glimmers of talent to announce they were top dog in this town and you won't be the last.

Jack:  You sound bitter, A.J.. Could it be that not only have I scooped you on a few stories lately while you were wasting your time trying to prove Nathan James isn't a murderer, but the Times' sales are rising while that newspaper of yours is headed for a landfill?

A.J.: What is that supposed to mean?

Jack: Well, rumor has it that the Journal is in a lot of trouble…especially now that the Times has been bought by the Greyhawks.

A.J.: And you always have been one to listen to rumor, haven't you? It's what that paper of your specializes in.

Jack: You telling me it isn't true?

A.J.: I'm telling you that the Journal is one of the most respected papers in this state and no rag like the Times is going to put us out of business. Your new boss is not going to leave Covington Bay with only his paper with your so called reporting to inform the public.

Jack: How do you plan to stop him? You're so busy keeping your own face off the front page I can't imagine you don't have time for much else.

A.J.: My family can deal with Quentin Greyhawk. Surely you've lived in Covington Bay long enough to know that. (He gave Jack a warning gaze) There isn't much that any of us are threatened by. (A.J. walked away)

Jack: (smirking) You should be, A.J.. You should be.

Scene: Covington Bay Police Department; the first floor. Melissa Stone walks into the building, looking harried and anxious. The young nurse looks back out at the journalists and reporters hanging around outside.  She walked to the elevator and pressing the up button.  The elevator doors slid open. Everyone got off and Melissa got on alone. She pressed the button for the fifth floor and the doors started to close. Suddenly, Kevin slipped through the closing doors, startling Melissa.

Uncle Kevin, what are you doing here!?

Kevin: (panting as if he'd been running hard)  I came after you to stop you, Melissa. Thank God You have no idea what you're going to be walking into!

Melissa (as the elevator doors slid close): Look, I know you're concerned about my father finding out about Eric and I, but…!

Kevin:  (as she pressed the button for the seventh floor)  Melissa, how can I make you understand that now is not the time for your father to discover your relationship with Eric?   This is only going to make matters worse!

Melissa:  Not after I explain  that I'm to blame for a lot of what happened. 

Kevin: I don't think Eric can use an argument with his girlfriend as a defense for police harassment and assault.

Melissa: Maybe not, but I have to do what I can to fix a situation I caused. Eric has to know how sorry I am and how much I love and support him.

Kevin:   I don't think Eric is going to appreciate your efforts to help him.

Melissa: Uncle Kevin, I know you have your problems with Eric and I know you think my being involved with him is a mistake, but I love him. I love him and he needs me and I am going to be there for him.  You can't talk me out of this. I appreciate you coming down here, but I don't need your help.

Kevin: (sighing, admitting defeat) I think you do, you just don't know it yet. But since I can't talk you out of it, then I'm going to go with you.

Melissa: That isn't necessary.

Kevin: I think it is. You want to be there for Eric, well I'm going to be there for you.

(The elevator door slid open and Kevin and Melissa stepped off it as A.J. was coming down a corridor)

A.J.: Kevin…Melissa!

Melissa:   Hi, A.J.  (Pause)  Uncle Kevin, I appreciate your help, but I don’t need it.  Excuse me.

Kevin:  (as Melissa rushed away)  Melissa!

A.J.:  Kevin, what’s going on?  Is Melissa is the friend you were coming down her to help?

Kevin: Yes, but it doesn't look like I'm going to do her any good.

A.J.: Why does she need your help? And why are you so upset about her being at the station? Her father is head of Homicide, you know.

Kevin: I know, but she's not here to see Walter.

A.J.: Then who is she here to see?

Kevin: Eric.

A.J.: Why would she want to see my brother?

Kevin: (shrugged) Because she loves him…the little fool.

A.J.: (shocked) She loves him? Are you telling me that she is involved with Eric?

Kevin: Oh, yes. And Walter doesn't know.

A.J: (shaking his head) Just when I think my brother couldn't be more foolish than he already is, he shows me I'm wrong. Does he have any idea what kind of trouble he is asking for?!

Kevin: No. But he's about to find out.

Scene: Covington Bay Police Department. The Homicide Division; an interrogation room. Eric, Jake and Walter are there.

Eric:  You can’t throw me off the force.  You don’t have that kind of power.  There is a policeman’s union.  I deserve at least a hearing.

Walter:  Oh, there will be one.  Don’t worry, we’ll cross all the I’s and dot the T’s.  But you are finished in this or any other department.

Eric:  This isn’t right!

Walter: Really? I call police harassment and assaulting a citizen reason enough to kick you off the force.  I've put up with your drinking, showing up late for work and general disruptive behavior for months. I've looked the other way because I knew you were still upset about Pete's death. But no more Eric. No more. You are out of here!

Eric: You need me, damn it! I am one of the best cops in this department! I have cleared more cases than anyone and you're dumping me!? You should be supporting me, standing beside me!

Walter: I would…if I had a reason to, but I can't think of one. Your harassment of Danny James was bad enough, but we could've handled that. We could've even defused the accusations of racism. However, your assaulting Nigel Greyhawk was inexcusable. What were you thinking attacking one of the most prominent men in this town!?

Eric: Doesn't matter what he and his family did, what they wrote about me?

Walter: Eric, it doesn't matter what he wrote. You had no right to attack him. We arrest people for such crimes everyday. You think you should be no different because you're a cop?

Eric: You're giving the Greyhawks what they want, you know? They are trying to ruin my family and you're letting them!

Walter: What is it going to take for you to realize that this is no one's fault but yours!? You didn't have to run off and attack the man. Face it, Eric, you let your temper burn out of control and now you have to pay the price. It's as simple as that.

Eric: I see. I guess just like most everyone else in this town, you dance to the tune of Quentin Greyhawk too, huh? I never thought you'd let anyone yank your chain, Captain, but I guess I was wrong.

Walter: I don't like what you're insinuating, Eric. You know me well enough to know that if I would back you if I had something to work with, but I don't. You have tied my hands. Quentin Greyhawk has every reason to expect that you be tossed off the force and be punished for attacking his son. And that is what is going to happen…and very soon I might add.

Jake: What does that mean, Captain?

Walter: I received a call from Nigel Greyhawk a little while ago. He's on his way down here…no doubt to press formal charges.

Eric: (bitterly) The Greyhawks don't waste anytime, do they?

Walter: No…and why should they? They've wanted to ruin your family for years, Eric, and you gave them the perfect opportunity. Self-destruction is something you've become quite adept at.

Jake: Eric, maybe you better get a lawyer.

Walter: That sounds like a good idea.

Eric: I don't need a lawyer.

Walter: Face it, you do.

Jake: I'll call my mom.

Eric: You can't be serious! She is defending Nathan James, who I arrested, for murder!

Jake: And she can overlook that. I suggest you do too.

Scene: Covington Bay Police Department; the Homicide Division. Angela is at her desk talking on the telephone.

Angela: I tell you, Hillary, I couldn't have joined the department at a better time. It did my heart good to see Eric Lassiter handcuffed and hauled off to jail.

Hillary: (in a playfully scolding tone) Angela, that's not very Christian of you.

Angela: It might not be…if I believed in God. Look, Eric Lassiter deserved to be in jail a long time ago for being a complete jerk. It's about time justice was finally done. I just wish Monica and Vicki hadn't been caught in the middle of it.

Hillary: And how was she when you left Greyhawk Manor?

Angela: I really didn't have time to talk to her. After Vicki saw Eric with those handcuffs, we thought it was best to get him out as quickly as possible. Besides, I'm sure Vicki and Nigel managed to calm her down.

Hillary: I hope so. But, I'm sure she was upset to see her father dragged off to jail.

Angela: Well, it was only a matter of time before Eric went up in flames. It's best something like this happened sooner rather than later for Vicki's sake.

Hillary: Could you be any more pleased about this?

Angela: Only if I got to testify against Eric at his trial. Look, not only does this end this joke of a partnership with Eric, he's completely off the force. He was unfit as an officer anyway.

Hillary: I admit Eric has always been sort of a loose cannon, but he's a good cop and he's given this department a lot of good years of service. My personal feelings aside, it's a shame this had to happen.

Angela: Well, I'm glad I got up this morning. (Angela then spotted Melissa walking into the station) And I'm about to be even gladder. (Pause) Hillary, I have to go.

Hillary: Is there something wrong?

Angela: Not in my mind. Bye. (Angela hung up as Melissa approached the desk) Melissa, what are you doing here?

Melissa: I’m here to see Eric, Det. Sorensen. Where is he?

Angela: Melissa, I don't think this is a good time. Surely you've heard what happened?

Melissa: Of course I have. It's why I'm here. Eric needs me and I have to see him.

Angela: Melissa, I don't think…!

Melissa: I have to see him and if you won't help me find him, I'll ask someone else!

Angela: He's in Interrogation Room B. Do you know where that is?

Melissa: I grew up in this department. Of course I know where it is. Thanks. (Melissa walked away)

Angela: You're welcome. (She grinned) Oh, to be a fly on the wall.

Scene: Collier and Associates; Michael's office. Michael and Lucas are there.

Michael: Greyhawk, you continue to prove yourself to be a despicable human being. Writing nasty articles about the Lassiters isn't enough? Having Eric arrested didn't give you a thrill of the day? You have to come here and bother me too?

Lucas: No, it's just a bonus. Besides, I didn't even know you were here.

Michael: Well, I won't be much longer. Give me a few minutes and the place is all yours.

Lucas: I just can't believe you're going to quit. Collier and Associates is one of the most reputable firms in town…if not the state.

Michael: Like you give damn whether I quit or not.

Lucas: I could care less what you do, Tamakai. I just don't get it. You can't get along with me so you quit?

Michael: Don't make this about you, Greyhawk. You're only part of the problem.

Lucas: So you're not happy about defending Nathan James, so what?

Michael: Why does everyone think I shouldn't have a problem with defending a murderer?

Lucas: Isn't that what defense attorneys do; defend the guilty?

Michael: That's not why I became a defense attorney. I didn't give up my job as a prosecutor to let the worst of society roam the streets unchecked. I won't be part of that.

Lucas: And you're so sure that the kid killed Candice Dailey?

Michael: Aren't you? Did you say that it didn't matter if he was guilty or not as long as we got the evidence to prove him innocent?

Lucas: Sure, but that's just part of the job.

Michael: It's not part of my job. You know, the fact that you are involved in this case make me dislike you even more, Greyhawk, and I didn't think that was possible.

Lucas: And why is that?

Michael: Your complete lack of conscience. Forgetting the fact that the kid is obviously guilty and you want to let him off, he killed your brother's fiancé, someone who was going to be a member of your family. Doesn't that matter to you? Is that even the slightest bit of conflict for you?

Lucas: Life is full of conflict, Tamakai. I'd think you'd be old enough to know that by now.

Michael: I'm old enough to know the difference between right and wrong, even if you don't. Hopefully someday, someone will teach you that lesson.

Lucas: Are you saying that someone will be you?

Michael: Since avoiding you is someone I plan to do, I don't think so. But your day will come, Greyhawk, that much I know. (Michael picked up his box) I'll pick up the rest of stuff later. This room is a little too crowded for me. (Michael walked out)

Scene: Outside the Covington Bay Courthouse. Sabrina and Patricia are there.

Patricia: How can you say I'm selfish? I'm here to help my brother!

Sabrina: Yes, but not out of the goodness of your heart. You're only motive for helping Michael seems to be so you won't get the blame for his problems. But then you always did have trouble accepting responsibility for your actions, didn't you? You forget, Patricia, I've known you ever since you were a little girl.

Patricia: And you were as wrong about me then as you are now. Yes, I want to help my brother and yes, I don't want be blamed for all the ills in Covington Bay! Is there anything wrong with that?

Sabrina: Not if you weren't responsible for some of what's gone on. (At that moment, Sabrina's cellular phone rang) Excuse me. (Sabrina reached into her purse and picked up the phone) Sabrina Collier.

Jake's Voice: Mom, it's Jake.

Sabrina: Jake? Hi, what's up?

Jake: Can you come over to the police station?

Sabrina: Why? Is there something wrong?

Jake: I have a client for you…someone who needs your help.

Sabrina: Who?

Jake: I don't have time to get into over the phone…and things are moving really fast here. Can you just come over?

Sabrina: Well, I needed to go to the hospital to see Gloria. It's pretty important.

Jake: I know and I wouldn't ask you unless it was urgent. Please. Can you come over here right away?

Sabrina: Of course, son. I'm on my way. (Sabrina hung up and slipped the phone back into her purse) I have to be going.

Patricia: Fine. But, you will talk to Michael, won't you?

Sabrina: Like I said, I will talk to him. But I'm doing it for his sake, not yours. (Sabrina walked away)

Scene: Covington Bay High School; a hallway outside the locker room. Richie and Marc exit the locker room and start down the busy corridor, eventually stopping at a locker.

Marc: So you want to tell me how we're going to find this diary? It could be too late you know. The police might already have it.

Richie: (shaking his head as he started to open the locker) That's what I said to Nikki, but I she didn't think so and now that I've had time to think about it, neither do I. If she was as protective of it as Nikki says, then Candice must've hidden it somewhere. Probably why it hasn't been discovered so far. If the police had that diary and they read what Candice no doubt wrote about us, I'm sure we would've been questioned by now.

Marc: Or worse. We might be on trial for Candice's murder.

Richie: A likely scenario…one we have to avoid. We didn't come this far to get caught now.

Marc: So how do we find the diary, moreover, how do we find it before Nikki does?

Richie: If Nathan wasn't in a coma this would be a lot easier. He knew Candice more than anyone else. He probably knows where her diary is.

Marc: You probably right, but since we don't have that option, what do we do?

Richie: The first place to search would be Candice's house, I guess.

Marc: And how do you propose we get in?

Richie: That's easy. We break in.

Marc: What!? You can't be serious!

Richie: Marc, after all we've done to protect ourselves, do you really think breaking and entering is such a big deal?

Marc: (sighing) I guess not.

Richie: Besides, it won't be that hard. I'll just pick the lock.

Marc: (surprised) Where did you learn to pick locks?

Richie: My Uncle Alec did a movie once about a cat burglar and I spent the summer on the set. They had some ex-thief there as an advisor and he showed me a few of his tricks. I think I can remember how to do it.

Marc: And what about Nikki? Not only do you have to keep her from looking for the diary at Candice's place, where she'll no doubt want to check first, you have to fix it so she doesn't wonder where you are. She's suspicious enough about your disappearing acts already.

Richie: I'm well aware of that. And I'm devising a plan to square things with Nikki and keep her out of the way long enough for us to check out Candice's place for the diary.

Marc: Well before you can go through with any plans, you've got to get Nikki to forgive you.

Richie: That's first on my agenda, Marc. Look, you've got to have faith in me. I've got us through so far, I'm not going to let it all blow up in our faces now. Candice couldn't stop us…neither will Nikki.

Scene: Covington Bay High School; the Music Room. Nikki and Nina are there.

Nikki: Nina, even if I wanted to I can't drop this. I'm in it until the end…until I find out who killed Candice.

Nina: Yes, but you've only been involved in a couple of days and there's been so much trouble. It's only bound to get worse. Do you really think you can deal with Richie's jealousy and James' obvious interest in you? And that's not even getting to actually finding out who murdered Candice.

Nikki: Nina, I realize that, but I'll have to find a way to handle it. Richie and I will make up. We love each other and once he's had some time to realize how wrong he is to accuse me of being interested in James, he'll apologize and things will go back to normal.

Nina: And what about James? Nikki, he is interested in you. It’s obvious to me…surely you have to be aware of it.

Nikki: He's…flirted with me. But, I've made it clear to him that I'm not interested. I love Richie and he's the man in my life. Besides, even if Richie wasn't around, the last thing I would do is get involved with a Greyhawk.  

Nina: True. The Greyhawks do have a bad reputation. But, you already told me you wasn't sure if James killed Candice. Obviously he's not as bad as people like to think he is.

Nikki: He's not. He's got some…good qualities. And he certainly seemed to love Candice.

Nina: That's impression I got too when I spoke to him. Maybe you should just tell Richie he's wrong and put and end to this now.

Nikki: Because it's not certain that James didn't kill Candice and until I know the truth, I have to keep seeing him. But I won't let him come between Richie and I. I'll deal with James…somehow.

Nina: I don't envy you, Nikki. It sounds like this whole mess is a potential for disaster.

Nikki: That's because it is. (Pause) Well, I better take off for the hospital.

Nina: Why?

Nikki: I have to start looking for Candice's diary so I should start with Candice's father. He should have an idea where I could find it.

Nina: You going to tell him you're looking for her diary…about this whole plan to prove Nathan didn't kill Candice?

Nikki: Of course not. I told you about Dr. Dailey berating Richie and I for wanting to help Nathan. He hates Nathan and definitely believes he's guilty. He'd never do anything to help.

Nina: Even if it could lead to finding out who really killed his daughter?

Nikki: That's what you'd think…but he's convinced Nathan did it. Aside of a confession from the real killer, he'd never believe otherwise.

Nina: So how are you going to find out where the diary could be without tipping him off?

Nikki: (smiling) That, girlfriend, is where you come in.

Scene: Covington Bay Medical Center; the fifth floor. Dana, Natalie and Melody are there.

Melody: Well, Dana? Where were you planning on going?

Dana: What does it matter to you?

Melody: It matters a lot of you are leaving your post again to go off and flirt with Zachary.  Dana, how many times do you have to be warned about this before you realize that nothing comes before the job when you are on duty!?

Dana: You have no right to talk to me like this!

Melody: I have every right. I may be head of the surgical nurses program now, but I am still your superior and I will report you to Mrs. Franklin so she can take note of your behavior.

Dana: Why are you trying to make trouble for me!?

Melody: I don't have to make trouble for you, you're doing a very good job of it on your own!

Natalie: Look, Melody, Dana is telling the truth…she was about to do some work.

Melody: (surprised) Oh, really?

Natalie: Yes. There are some patient files that needed to be run up to x-ray and Dana was going to take care of it.

Melody: Oh. (She looked embarrassed) I see. I'm sorry, Dana, I guess I own you an apology.

Dana: (nastily) I guess so. You really shouldn't be so quick to jump to conclusions.

Melody: Well, I was simply going by my experience with you, Dana. So, take those files and be right back here. Excuse me. (Melody walked away)

Dana: I could really grow to hate that woman.

Natalie: And I'm sure she could say the same about you.

Dana: Well, she really should mind her own business instead of sticking her face into mine. Maybe if she did, her boyfriend wouldn't have been able to get away with being married for the past six years.

Natalie: No need to be nasty.

Dana: And what about what she just did to me!?

Natalie: She was doing her job…I suggest you take a cue from her. By the way, you're welcome for me saving your butt…again.

Dana: I'll thank you…if you give me those files so I can get away from this desk for a few minutes.

Natalie: Dana, there are no files…I lied to keep you out of trouble…and you aren't going anywhere!

Dana: Damn it, Natalie, I have to find out what is going on with Zachary and Gloria! They've been gone together for a long time. Lord only knows what is going on between them.

Scene: Covington Bay Medical Center; Gloria's office. Gloria and Zachary are there. Zachary looks horrified as he faces Gloria.

Zachary: Gloria, this must be some sort of sick joke!

Gloria: Zachary, I would never joke…especially about something like this.

Zachary: You are saying that my father told a judge that he can't get divorced because of Candice's murder?

Gloria: Yes. He said he was grieving her and he needed time to work though that grief and that he wouldn't be able to put it all to rest until Candice's murderer was tried and convicted.

Zachary: So the judge has postponed the trial until the end of Nathan's trial.

Gloria: Yes and who knows how long that will take. Nathan is in a coma and even if he comes out if it, who knows how long it will be before he recovers and is able to stand trial, which could take months. And if justice really prevails and Nathan is cleared of the murder, what then? What if the real killer is never caught? This could go on forever, Zachary, and I just can't stand it! I just can't stomach the thought of spending one more minute married to that man.

Zachary: Damn him! (Zachary slammed his fist on Gloria's desk) Damn that bastard! He has done some horrible, disgusting things in his time, but this is beyond the pale!

Gloria: I would've never expected it, Zachary, especially since I know how much Candice loved your father and he certainly seemed to love her.

Zachary: Love! What does that monster know about love!? His love for Candice was based on her idolizing him, which for some inexplicable reason, she did! She worshipped the man and he used that to run her life. He was going to force her to marry James Greyhawk so he could have a connection to a wealthy family in this town. Worse, he made her hide her love for Nathan. And he still using her even after she's gone. He'd dig up her remains and put them on display if he thought it would get him some sympathy. (Pause) What kind of judge would sign off on this farce of a motion?!

Gloria: Some pro-family judge who thinks until death do you part isn't reason enough to dissolve a marriage.

Zachary: No doubt bought and paid for by my father and that shark of an attorney of his. What about Sabrina? She is going to fight this, isn't she?

Gloria: Of course she is. You know she hates Glenn; she lives to see the day I'm no longer tied to him.

Zachary: So do I. I hate this, Gloria, I really hate this. I feel so helpless. You're going through all this pain and I can't do anything to help.

Gloria: Zachary, just listening helps. Believe me, I'm glad to have you to talk to. I just wish I didn't have to. I hate you being in the middle of this mess.

Zachary: I'm not in the middle. I'm on your side. (gripping Gloria's shoulders) And that's exactly where I want to be. (He looked into her eyes, then hesitated, backing away) I just wish there was more I could do than let you bend my ear. I feel so helpless.

Gloria: You're not the only one. And it's because we are helpless. Glenn holds all the cards…and right now he's got a Royal Flush.

Zachary: I wanted so much for this to be over. I wanted this divorce to be your chance to go on with your life. You deserved it…you needed it. Seeing you go through this…seeing the pain on your face…! God, I can't stand it! I can't stand what that man has done to you…to us!

Gloria: (startled) To us!? Zachary, what do you mean by that?

Coming Up In Covington Bay…