sunset s01e01

SUNSET

"Fifteen Minutes, Tops"

written by

Tommy Delk

SUNSET


CAST

RUTH HOWELLERIN HOWELLWALTER HOWELLSPENCER HOWELLREID HOWELLCAIN HOWELLGABE HOWELLLEXI HOWELLTHERESA KINGDERRICK KINGLAINEY KING

OLIVIA DAVISTAE LEUNG

SAMUEL HOWELL

SUNSET


SETSINTERIORS

AXIS STUDIOS HALLWAY SOUNDSTAGE

GYM WORKOUT ROOM- LOCKER ROOM

IVORY GOLF RESORT - FOYER - DAYDEPARTMENT STORE - BREAK ROOMSUNSET RESORT - MAIN HOUSE - KITCHEN

- LIVING ROOM- GABE'S ROOM

SUNSET RESORT - IN-LAW HOME - KITCHENSUNSET RESORT - ANNEX - BEDROOMRESTAURANT - DINING ROOMTAE'S APARTMENT - BEDROOM

EXTERIORSSUNSET RESORT - DAY/LATE AFTERNOON/NIGHTSUNSET RESORT - ANNEX - NIGHT

- DRIVEWAY - NIGHTMYRTLE BEACH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT - DAYHOSPITAL - ROOF - DAYRESTAURANT - PARKING LOT - NIGHT

SUNSETFifteen Minutes, Tops

FADE IN:

INT. AXIS STUDIOS - HALLWAY - DAY 1.1 1

ERIN HOWELL-- 51 years old, pretty still, a little severe looking-- stands outside a door, nicely dressed, complete with an apron, pacing back and forth, agitated. Watching her pace is OLIVIA DAVIS, 20, Erins assistant, pretty and strong-willed with a slight aloof demeanor. She is clearly on edge cause of Erins pacing.

ERINWhere can he be? We should have started eight minutes ago!

OLIVIAIm sure hell be here soon, Mrs. Howell.

ERINI do have a life other than this show! I have an important appointment today that I can NOT be late for!

OLIVIAYour mother-in-law is coming back from New York today?

ERINYeah and if Im late picking her up in New York Ill never hear the end of it.

OLIVIAShould I give him another call?

ERINPlease.

As Olivia pulls out her phone Erin goes back into the door, saying as she goes:

ERIN (CONTD)Tell him to get his ass here!

The door closes allowing us to GET AN ANGLE ON THE SIGN ON THE DOOR. It reads Coastal Cooking With Erin Howell. We linger on the sign until we CUT.

(CONTINUED)

OLIVIA (O.S.)Hello, Steven? Yes, this is Olivia Davis...

CUT TO:

EXT. SUNSET RESORT - CONTINUOUS - DAY 1.2 2

Were outside the beautiful Sunset Coastal Resort. We can see four buildings: the main family house, the small in-law home, the guest house and the small house where Theresa lives. Its a beautiful day as we pan through the property, coming to a stop on WALTER HOWELL, 54, a man used to working hard. Walker is standing near a sign that says SUNSET COASTAL RESORT with a beautiful drawing of a sunset in the background.

After a moment the front door of the main family house opens and Cain HOWELL, 21, attractive, athletic, comes out. He sees Walter and goes to join him.

CAINMornin, Dad.

WALTERMorning.

CAINDo we have guests coming in this morning? I didnt see any on the schedule.

WALTER(with distaste)

Late bookers. Called around 6 this morning.

Its clear that Cain and Walter share the same opinion of late bookers, and it isnt a good one.

CAINSomething tells me these people will be trouble.

WALTERLate bookers usually are.

Cain sets off towards a car in the big parking lot/driveway.

WALTER (CONTD)Taking a group out today?

SUNSET "Fifteen Minutes, Tops" 2.CONTINUED:1 1

(CONTINUED)

CAINTwo. First ones pretty big, but most of them have been diving before.

The news of two groups is great to Walter, and just from his face we can see that the resort hasnt been doing as great as it could.

WALTEROkay. Be careful!

Cain has already reached his car and raises a hand, acknowledging his fathers words. As he gets in the car and drives off a van pulls into the parking lot. Walter hurries to it as two MIDDLE-AGED COUPLES get out. Walter is a natural host who works very well with people, and it shows.

WALTER (CONTD)Welcome to Sunset Coastal Resort!

MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN 1This place is beautiful!

The couples take in the look of the place, their opinions hard to read. One of the MIDDLE-AGED MAN 1 wrestles with two bags and Walter hurries to him.

WALTERHere, let me help you with that. Your rooms are this way.

MIDDLE-AGED MAN 1Thanks.

He leads them off towards the guest house.

WALTERBreakfast is offered other days, with 24 hours request notice, and lunch is the same. We dont offer dinner but can recommend a lot of good places on the island.

CUT TO:

INT. GYM - WORKOUT ROOM - CONTINUOUS - DAY 1.3 3

We pan through the gym and come to a stop on Gabe HOWELL, 23, who is running like anything on a treadmill.


(CONTINUED)

ANGLE: THE TREADMILL TIMER

Hes been going about 14:45 seconds and counting. When the counter finally hits 15 minutes he stops, tired. As he steps off the treadmill TAE LEUNG, 25, fit, Korean-American, steps up and pats him on the back.

TAELook how quickly youre improving.

Gabe smiles his thanks and dries his sweat with a towel. Together they walk from the machines towards the back.

TAE (CONTD)The showers here are usually pretty dirty. You could shower at my place and then go to work. If you have time.

GABE(beaming)

Well have to see if I do.

There are definitely sparks between the two of them, but it isnt completely obvious or something we pay much attention to right now. The two of them walk into:

INT. GYM - LOCKER ROOM - DAY 1.4 4

There are a few guys in various states of pre-shower and post-shower prep. Tae and Gabe go to their lockers and open them, getting their stuff. Gabe goes right for his phone and looks at it as Tae continues to talk.

TAESo I have to go around the coast and take some test shots for a project Im trying to get today. I would be close to your parents place and could meet you for dinner since you have a short shift today.

Gabe is not paying him any attention.

ANGLE: GABES PHONE

We see that he has four missed calls from Miranda. From his face this doesnt seem to be a good thing.

TAE (O.S.) (CONTD)Gabe? Gabe?

Gabe comes back to reality, putting his phone in his bag.


(CONTINUED)

GABEWhat? Sorry I spaced out a little.

TAEI can see. Is something wrong?

GABEJust that it looks like Ill have to shower at the hospital. I dont have a lot of time today.

TAEDid you hear what I said about dinner?

GABE(apologetic)

No... Im sorry.

TAEIts fine. I just asked if you wanted to get dinner after work.

GABEYeah, sounds great. Sorry I have to go so quickly.

TAEGet out of here. I need to get to the coast anyway.

GABEYoure going to the coast?

With firm evidence that Gabe was not listening to him Tae swats at him with a towel.

TAESo you really werent listening!

Laughing the two of them gather their bags and head out of the locker room.

CUT TO:

INT. AXIS STUDIOS - SOUNDSTAGE - DAY 1.5 5

We are seeing THROUGH A TELEVISION CAMERA. Erin is standing there, in front of a counter, Olivia at her side. Both are in aprons, but Erins has her name across the front and is fancy. There are oysters on the table in front of Erin.


(CONTINUED)

ERIN(to the camera, hosting)

The most difficult part of oyster stew is dealing with the oysters. Now, you can buy them already opened and shucked, but I prefer them fresh.

Olivia holds up an oyster and will actively demonstrate the process of opening the oyster as she speaks.

ERIN (CONTD)(a little fast, not too bad though)

Slip the tip of knife blade between the top and bottom shell right by the hinge. As it is necessary to exert some pressure to open the oyster shell, pay special attention to the angle of the knife. Run the knife around the oyster until you get to the other side. Be careful, because this is where you can cut or stab yourself! Using a twisting motion, pry the top and bottom shells apart. Be gentle but firm so you don't lose any of the oyster juices inside.

STEVEN (O.S.)Cut! Erin, come on now.

We pull out of the camera shot and are in:

The stopping frustrates the hell out of Erin.

ERINWhats the problem, Steve?

We pan over to see STEVEN BRIGGS (33), Erins Executive Producer, standing there.

STEVENYoure going too fast. We need viewers to be able to write it down or do it with you.

ERIN(impatient)

Put the instructions online then!


(CONTINUED)

STEVENIf that was all we had to do then we wouldnt need you, would we? Just go through it slowly.

ERINI told you I have an appointment today! If you werent almost fifteen minutes late we wouldnt be having this issue!

STEVENJust slow down and well be done in no time.

Erin takes a breath to compose herself.

ERINFine, where do you want me to start?

CUT TO:

EXT. MYRTLE BEACH INTNTL AIRPORT - CONTINUOUS - DAY 1.6 6

Were outside of a busy terminal at the airport. After a moment we see RUTH HOWELL, 75, emerge from the terminal, a single bag in hand. She is looking around, searching for any sign of Erins car, but she doesnt see anything.

A cab is parked in front. The DRIVER notices her and rolls down the window.

DRIVERNeed a ride?

RUTHNo thank you. Someone is coming for me.

DRIVERAre you sure? I dont have any customer right now.

RUTHIm sure.

The Driver rolls the window back up with a what can you do? sort of shrug.

SUNSET "Fifteen Minutes, Tops" 7.CONTINUED: (2)5 5

(CONTINUED)

ERIN (PRE-LAP)And as always you can catch tonights recipe and other helpful video hints on our websitewww.coastalcooking.com.

INT. AXIS STUDIOS - SOUNDSTAGE - DAY 1.7 7

Erin is wrapping up the filming on her show. Were seeing the shot through the camera filming her.

ERINThis has been Coastal Cooking with Erin Howell. Thanks for watching.

STEVEN (O.S.)Cut.

Now were seeing the scene normally.

Erin is speed-stripping off her mic and her apron and handing them to a STAGE ASSISTANT.

ERIN(to Olivia)

What time is it?

OLIVIA(checking her watch)

One-twenty.

ERINDamn it.

She hurries away, leaving a slightly flustered Olivia standing there.

ERIN (O.S.) (CONTD)What are you waiting for?

Olivia hurries off after her.

CUT TO:

EXT. MYRTLE BEACH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT - DAY 1.8 8

Olivias car pulls up to the pick-up and drop-off area. Erin is in the passenger seat.

ERINDamn Steven. What time is it?

OLIVIAOne-forty-five.


(CONTINUED)

ERINFifteen minutes. I knew it.

Erin is looking all around for Ruth, but cant seem to find her.

ERIN (CONTD)(slightly panicking)

This is great. Just great. Where could she be?

OLIVIACalm down, Mrs. Howell. Im sure shes here. Maybe her plane was delayed?

ERINCould you wait here while I go check?

OLIVIAOf course.

As Erin hurries inside the airport we:

CUT TO:

EXT. SUNSET RESORT - DAY 1.9 9

Walter is tending to a small vegetable garden with REID HOWELL (39) his youngest brother. We hear the sound of a car pulling up.

ANGLE: THE DRIVEWAY

A taxi pulls up.

ANGLE: THE BROTHERS

They trade confused looks at this.

REIDMore guests?

Walter just shakes his head.

ANGLE: THE TAXI

Ruth gets out, hands the taxi driver money.

WALTER(shocked)

Mother?


(CONTINUED)

The two brothers hurry to her as the cab pulls away.

REIDMom, what are you doing here? Why did you come in a cab?

RUTHWhy dont you ask your sister-in-law?

WALTERI thought she was picking you up at the airport.

RUTHThats what I thought too.

Ruth just walks by them, heading into the in-law house. Walter and Reid exchange confused looks.

REIDErins done it this time.

CUT TO:

EXT. HOSPITAL - ROOF - DAY 1.10 10

Were on the hospital roof where Gabe is standing, leaning on the ledge, looking out. He seems troubled or stressed or preoccupied about something. His phone vibrates and he takes it out and looks at it for a moment, uncertainty showing on his face, then he answers it.

GABE(a beat, then, nervously)

Hey, Miranda. Sorry, Ive been busy.

MIRANDA (O.S.)(through the phone)

Listen, Gabe... Ive thought a lot about things...

GABE(even more anxious)

And?

MIRANDA (O.S.)And... and I cant wait for you to figure out what you want.

Gabe is immediately relieved by this news, though he still looks somewhat troubled.


(CONTINUED)

GABEIm really sorry--

MIRANDA (O.S.)Im not finished. Ive wasted a lot of time hoping you would figure out that I was good for you, that WE were good. That Im what you want. I cant do that anymore. If Im not important enough to you, thats your problem.

GABEMiranda--

MIRANDA (O.S.)I said Im not finished. I dont hold any ill will toward you, nothing like that. Im just done waiting.

This is a lot to process, but again we can tell that Gabe is relieved, but he sincerely does not want to hurt her.

GABEMiranda, Im sorry I couldnt give you what you wanted.

MIRANDA (O.S.)(emotional)

Me too.

Then she hangs up, and thats all. Gabe remains there for a moment more, and a weight has been lifted from his shoulders.

CUT TO BLACK.

END OF ACT ONE


ACT TWO

FADE IN:

INT. IVORY GOLF RESORT - FOYER - CONTINUOUS - DAY 1.11 11

Were in the lobby of a big and beautiful golf resort. As we pan through the wealthy people going in and out we see the name above the reception desk: IVORY GOLF RESORT. Just below that stands THERESA KING, 32, pretty but looks like she frowns a little too often.

She is standing behind the desk as a COUPLE come up to the counter to check out.

THERESA(professional but not quite warm)

Good morning. What can I do for you?

MALE RESORT GUESTWed like to check out, please.

THERESACertainly. Room number?

MALE RESORT GUESTTwo-sixteen.

She punches some things into her computer.

THERESAAlright, you can return your room keys now.

The Male Resort Guest hands her one.

FEMALE RESORT GUESTIm afraid we cant find the other.

THERESAThat is unfortunate but it happens. Sadly hotel policy is that we have to charge your credit card for the unreturned key.

MALE RESORT GUESTHow much?

THERESATwenty-five dollars.

SUNSET "Fifteen Minutes, Tops" 12.

(CONTINUED)

FEMALE RESORT GUESTThat will be fine, thank you.

Theresa hits a few buttons and then hands them a receipt.

THERESAHere is the itemized list of room-service and amenity charges. We have added the lost key to it. Thank you for staying with us and have a wonderful day.

The couple walks away. Theresa looks at the clock on the wall. It reads 11:15am, so she pulls out her phone and dials a number, holds it to her ear. It rings twice and cuts straight to voice mail.

DERRICK (O.S.)(through the phone)

Youve reached Derrick King. Im sorry I cant answer right now. Leave your name and number and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

THERESA(trying to sound casual and sweet, not really succeeding)

Honey, its me. Ive tried to call you twice already and you havent answered. Call me as soon as you can.

She hangs up the phone, looking less than pleased. She perks up immediately though as we hear voices drift our way.

SPENCER (O.S.)...sure you will find the grounds to be more than adequately kept.

SPENCER HOWELL, 46, middle brother of Walter and Reid, comes walking by leading two BIG EXEC TYPES with him. Hes clearly showing the place off to them.

SPENCER (CONTD)Not only is our course up to PGAregulations, we also sport an extensive clubhouse furnished with dining and relaxation amenities. We also have several rooms designed specifically to cater to the needs of large company meetings.


(CONTINUED)

As they walk towards the door Spencer nods warmly to Theresa, the only indication right now that the two know each other.

SPENCER (CONTD)Now, we have arranged a set of clubs and a cart for you to get a feel for the course yourselves, if you are so inclined.

BIG EXEC TYPE 1Sounds like a great idea.

BIG EXEC TYPE 2Perfect weather today for it.

SPENCERThere are caddies waiting outside for you. I will join you momentarily.

The two Big Exec Types head out the main door, and Spencer turns around and crosses back to Theresa at the counter.

SPENCER (CONTD)Hows the day been so far?

THERESAIts been alright.

She looks around as if shes being sneaky.

THERESA (CONTD)Are the rumors true, Uncle Spencer?

SPENCERRumors?

THERESAThat theres a new executive coming in.

From Spencers reaction it seems to be true.

SPENCERWhere did you hear that?

THERESAAround.

SPENCER(avoiding the question)

Ill see you at home for dinner.


(CONTINUED)

The avoidance is not lost on Theresa. Spencer heads back towards the front door.

THERESA(calling after him)

So it is true!

Spencer just laughs and heads outside.

Theresa shakes her head a little. With Spencer and the big-wigs gone she pulls her phone back out.

CUT TO:

INT. DEPARTMENT STORE - BREAK ROOM - DAY 1.12 12

Were sitting in the break room of a department store. Its totally normal, average, nothing fancy. DERRICK KING (35, handsome) is sitting at the table, talking to a few COWORKERS, all of them dressed in button-downs, ties and slacks.

COWORKER 1I swear to God Ill be so thankful when this fucking inventory is over.

DERRICKYou and me both.

At that moment his cell phone vibrates. He looks at it makes an almost grimacing face.

COWORKER 2I know that face. Its the wife.

The two Coworkers laugh good-naturedly at him.

COWORKER 1Just dont answer the damn thing.

DERRICK(resigned)

Its not worth the fight.

He picks up the phone.

DERRICK (CONTD)Hey, honey. I know, Im sorry. I was in a meeting.

COWORKER 2Totally whipped.


(CONTINUED)

Derrick glares at them.

DERRICK(normal phone conversation pauses)

I know. I didnt forget, Ill get it on my way home. Right. Ill be on time tonight, but listen, Ive got to go. Things are hectic here with inventory. Love you too.

Derrick ends the call, looking harried and hassled.

CUT TO:

INT. SUNSET RESORT - MAIN HOUSE - KITCHEN - DAY 1.13 13

Were angled in TIGHT on a refrigerator door.

ERIN (O.S.)How many times do I have to say Im sorry?

The refrigerator door shuts, revealing Erin in the kitchen, getting a head of lettuce for a salad. Walter is standing there, Reid sitting at the table, both of them looking at her accusingly. Olivia is sitting at the table looking really awkward.

REIDFor forgetting our mother at the airport?

WALTERReid.

ERINI did not forget her. I was running a little late because of filming. It was 15 minute, tops. She could have waited long enough for me to get there instead of hopping in a cab.

REIDShe said you were forty minutes late.

ERINForty minutes? Jesus Christ.

Erin goes about getting the lettuce ready for the salad, annoyed by what shes heard.


(CONTINUED)

ERIN (CONTD)It wasnt FOR MINUTES. I was 15 minutes late. I showed up at one-forty-five, right Olivia?

Olivia doesnt like being brought into this.

OLIVIA(uncomfortable)

Uh, yeah. Right.

REIDYeah well you know how she is. If things arent done her way, theres trouble.

ERINYeah Well I wonder why that is.

REIDWhat does that mean?

Sensing a fight Walter comes between them.

WALTER(to Reid)

Why dont you go check on her?

REIDFine.

Reid leaves the room.

WALTERHoney...

ERINCan we not do this in front of Olivia?

Walter stops, even though its clear he doesnt wish to.

WALTERIll go check on our guests.

Walter leaves, Olivia approaches the counter.

OLIVIAIs that everything today, Mrs. Howell?

ERINYeah. Listen, Im sorry to get you involved in that.


(CONTINUED)

OLIVIAIts fine.

Cain comes in, looking tired and worn out.

CAINIm home.

ERINYou smell like fish. Go shower before dinner.

CAINIve been diving all day.

ERINOh. This is Olivia. Shes my new assistant.

Cain looks at Olivia, who smiles warmly.

OLIVIANice to meet you.

Cain doesnt acknowledge her greeting.

CAINIm going to go up and shower.

He exits off. Olivia seems a little stunned by his behavior, but Erin doesnt seem to notice.

ERINWell thanks for your hard work today, Olivia. Ill see you tomorrow.

OLIVIAGoodnight, Mrs. Howell.

Olivia exits, Erin goes to the refrigerator to get something else out. After a moment Gabe walks into the kitchen.

ERINHey, youre home early.

GABEShort shift.

ERINDinner will be ready in half an hour.


(CONTINUED)

GABEIm going out to eat tonight.

Erin obviously gets the idea that hes on a date, judging by her reaction.

ERINOhh. I see. What was her name again?

We get the feeling this is a broken record conversation between the two of them.

GABEMom...

ERINIm sorry, Im sorry. Its just that youve been together for four months and Ive never met her. Ive never even heard you say her name more than twice. I want to meet her. Is that so bad?

GABEWeve broken up, so its not going to happen.

ERINWhat? Why?

Gabe heads out.

GABEIm going to change and go.

ERIN(calling after him)

But.. But... Why does this happen every time?

Of course there is no answer, so Erin goes back to prepping dinner.

LEXI (O.S.)Mom, Im home!

ALEXANDRA LEXI HOWELL (19, pretty) comes into the kitchen, backpack on her back, a few books in her arms.

ERINHow was school today? Could you go into the cabinet and get the plates out?


(CONTINUED)

These two thoughts are normal from Erin, and Lexi sets her books down and crosses right to the cabinet and withdraws a stack if plates that she puts on the table, all during the following dialogue.

LEXIIt was fine. Boring.

ERINKeep paying attention. Your father and I arent paying tuition for you to be slacking off or to pull a stunt like your brother.

LEXII know, I know. Theres the plates. Im going to go wash up and change before dinner.

ERINIts in fifteen.

(a beat, then something hits her)

Lexi, wait.

Lexi does as shes asked, turning back to her mom.

LEXIYeah?

ERIN(trying to be casual)

Do you remember Gabe talking about the girl hes dating?

LEXI(cautious, familiar road)

Yea, why?

ERINI just cant for the life of me remember her name. I know I should know it, but it just flew right out of my head. Strange, huh?

(not subtle)So do you remember what it was?

LEXIMiranda something-or-other.

ERINOh, okay. Thanks.


(CONTINUED)

LEXIWhy are you so interested all of a sudden?

ERINWhat? Im not. Im not interested. Nothing to be interested in, right? Why would I be interested? I just wanted to know her name, thats all. Perfectly normal for a mother to want to know the name of her sons girlfriend.

LEXIStep-son.

Lexis reminder irritates Erin; it is salt in an old wound for her.

ERINWhats your point? So hes my step-son? Ive raised him since he was seven years old. He might as well be mine.

LEXII didnt mean it like that, Mom. You just show more of an interest in Gabes love life than any of the rest of us.

ERINTheresas already married. Youre too young for it to be important, and Cain... well, hes Cain. Gabe is the one I have to worry about.

LEXIJust dont do it, Mom.

ERIN(defensive)

Do what?

LEXIMeddle. You always try to meddle in his life and it always ends with the two of you arguing and upset and then you mope around the house for a few days after making everyone feel uncomfortable.


(CONTINUED)

ERINI wasnt going to meddle! I was just curious.

Erin goes to the stove to open it, checking on her pot roast. There is a beat, and then Lexi changes the subject.

LEXII heard you were an hour late picking up grandma today.

ERINHow did you--? Wait, an HOUR? It was fifteen minutes!

LEXI(disapproving)

Just left your mother-in-law standing in the cold for an hour.

Lexi exits on that note, but Erin feels the need to get in the last word.

ERIN(yelling after her)

It was seventy-five degrees today!

EXT. SUNSET RESORT - LATE AFTERNOON - DAY 1.14 14

The resort is beautiful and calm, and Ruth is outside, tending to a little tea garden, Reid standing a little anxiously away from her, watching over her almost possessively. He is very much attached to his mother. Erin comes outside, sees Ruth, heads over to her.

ERINRuth--

RUTHSo you can remember me now?

Reid seems to find this funny, cause hes snickering, which earns him an ugly look from Erin.

ERINRuth, come on. Im sorry. I didnt forget you. How is that even possible? The taping ran late today because my asshole producer doesnt know how to be on time.

REIDIs that her fault?


(CONTINUED)

ERINDo you mind?

Reid doesnt seem like he is going to budge.

RUTHGo on inside. Im sure shes got dinner about done.

Reid isnt stupid enough to ignore Ruth; he heads inside. Ruth steps away from the garden, Erin helping her to the porch of the in-law house, where she sits down in a wicker chair.

ERINIm sorry I was a little late.

RUTHA little?

ERINYes, a little. Fifteen minutes, tops.

RUTHIt was half an hour.

ERINI got to the airport at one-forty-five. We checked the time when we showed up.

RUTHWhether it was forty-five minutes--

ERINForty-five? Come on.

RUTHWhether it was forty-five or fifteen or even two minutes, you were still late.

ERINYoure really stubborn, you know that?

RUTHIs that any way to talk to your mother-in-law?

Despite Ruths words its clear that the bite in her tone is gone, and the two of them are on fine terms.


(CONTINUED)

ERINI think a lot worse things have been said about mother-in-laws before you.

RUTHProbably so. Oh, and Erin, you owe me twenty-seven-fifty.

ERINWhat? Why?

RUTH(serious face)

Cab fare.

Erin, stunned, starts walking back towards the house.

ERINUnbelievable. Just unbelievable.

CUT TO BLACK.

END OF ACT TWO


ACT THREE

FADE IN:

INT. SUNSET RESORT - MAIN HOUSE - KITCHEN - NIGHT 1.15 15

Erin is setting the table with the final touches of the meal: there are baked potatoes, a nice big pot roast and a big wooden bowl of salad. Lexi is helping her by placing wine glasses next to some of the plates.

ERINOkay, tell your brother that dinner is ready.

LEXIOkay.

Lexi pulls her phone out and sends a text instead of going to get him, and Erin is look at her like shes lost her mind.

LEXI (CONTD)(off this look)

What? This is way faster.

ERINI dont know how you kids got to be so lazy.

Cain enters the kitchen.

CAINSmells delicious, mom.

LEXITold you it was faster.

ERINCain, open the wine bottle and let it breathe a little.

Cain does as she says.

LAINEY (O.S.)(excited)

Grandma, Im here!

We see Erins face light up at her granddaughters voice. LAINEY KING, 5, adorably cute and sweet, comes into the kitchen in her little kindergarten uniform, runs to Erin, who hugs her tight.


(CONTINUED)

ERINTheres my beautiful granddaughter! How was school?

LAINEYIt was fun. We learned how to count in Spanish!

ERINThats moy bien!

Theresa and Derrick follow her into the kitchen, nit-picking with each other.

THERESAI dont understand why you couldnt simply text me and tell me you were busy.

DERRICKBecause I was BUSY. Inventory is always like this, you know that.

THERESAIt takes two seconds to send a text--

ERINAre you two really going to argue like this here and in front of Lainey?

THERESAIts nothing, Mom.

ERINJust sit down to eat. Your father will be here soon.

LAINEYAfter dinner can I have some ice cream?

ERINSure.

THERESANo.

The two have a momentary how dare you stare-down.

ERINWhy cant she have any?


(CONTINUED)

THERESABecause I dont like her eating sweets. I dont want her to end up chubby.

ERINSo what? You were a chubby kid and look at you now.

THERESAI was not chubby!

Lainey, Derrick, Theresa and Cain and Lexi sit down in their various spots. Erin starts serving out the salad, and after a moment we hear a door closing and Walter and Reid come in.

ERINWheres Ruth?

REIDShe said shed make something.

The two men sit down and Erin starts serving out everything else, too.

WALTERYou called it right, Dev. These guests are more trouble than their worth.

ERINMoney is money.

CAINWhats the issue?

WALTEROh the tiniest things. The blankets are two scratchy can we have some others? The hot water doesnt come out hot enough, can you turn it up? I hate demanding customers.

ERINMoney is money. Okay, lets eat.

DERRICKWhere is Gabe?

ERINOh, he wont be eating with us. Hes going out.


(CONTINUED)

WALTERA date, probably.

ERINI doubt it, since he and whats-her-name broke up.

This is news to the family, who all seem surprised.

LEXIWhen did you find that out?

ERINHe told me today. I was saying that I want to meet her and he told me it didnt matter because they were broken up. I wonder why they did.

THERESAMaybe they didnt really break up.

ERINWhat do you mean?

THERESAWell, maybe he just told you they did so you wouldnt nag him like you always do.

ERINI do not nag-- When have I ever--

(rounding on Walter)Do you hear your child?

Walter just chuckles, finding the dynamic very amusing. There is something comfortable about the way they peck and bicker with each other, something that reeks of family, of familiarity.

WALTERIm staying out of this one.

DERRICKI dont think he lied. Hes not that kind of person.

Theresa glares at him.

REID(amused)

It would be best if you stayed out of it too. For what its worth, Erin, I think you get way too invested in his love life.


(MORE)

(CONTINUED)

Its like youre in a rush to see him married and out of the house.

ERINIm not in a rush to see him out of the house! I just think he deserves to have someone and be happy. He was such a lonely kid.

CAINI dont see the problem with him not settling down right away. Hes not even thirty. Why shouldnt he play the field a little?

REIDRight. A guy has a right to window shop for a while, right?

LEXI(teasing)

Whats your excuse, Uncle Reid?

REIDWatch it!

ERINYour uncle just didnt have what it takes to buy anything.

Reid stutters out many attempted come-backs but cant come up with any, which of course makes everyone laugh.

CUT TO:

INT. RESTAURANT - DINING ROOM - CONTINUOUS - NIGHT 1.16 16

Were in a nice restaurant, tracking carefully through the tables. There are people who are dining, enjoying their meals. We finally track through and come to where Tae is seated. He looks pretty nice-- nothing fancy, but hes definitely kinda dressed up. Hes got a glass of wine in front of him, and a second across from him in the empty seat. After a moment Gabe enters, also dressed somewhat nicely. He sees Tae and joins him.

TAEHey there.

GABEHey.

They share a shy smile and then Gabe sits down.


REID (CONT'D)

(CONTINUED)

TAEI ordered for you, I hope you dont mind.

GABEDepends on what you ordered.

TAESteak medium rare, ceasar salad and macaroni and cheese.

GABEYou know me so well.

The two fall into a comfortable silence as Tae pour Gabe some wine into his glass.

TAEHow was your day?

Gabe does not wish to bring up Miranda at this point, but we can see the guilt of hiding it on his face for a moment before he speaks.

GABEJust normal. So glad it was short. I didnt sleep well.

TAEYou never do.

GABEThats how I am. Ever since I was little Id be lucky to get four hours of sleep. Even if I lay down at nine, I dont fall asleep before one.

TAEEven if I want to stay up Im out by eleven.

GABELucky bastard.

Tae lifts his wine glass and holds it up in a toast.

TAEHeres to me being a lucky bastard and you being cute.

Gabe rolls his eyes.


(CONTINUED)

GABEIm not toasting that.

TAEFine. Heres to good wine.

The two toast, and a WAITRESS brings them their food.

GABEHow did your pictures turn out?

Tae is very self-conscious about his photography.

TAEOkay I guess.

GABELet me see them.

Tae hesitates.

GABE (CONTD)Please?

Tae finally hands his camera over, and Gabe starts going through his pictures.

GABE (CONTD)These are really good. When do you show them?

TAEThursday. I dont know if Ill do it though. I dont like them.

GABEI do. These are amazing.

TAE(embarrassed)

Thanks.

Gabe continues to go through the camera in silence for a moment, and then delivers the awkward blow as Tae drinks his wine.

GABEMiranda called me today.

Tae has a jerking, surprised reaction to this, nearly choking on the wine he was drinking.

CUT TO:



The family is sitting around the table. Dinner is done, but the adults are just enjoying their wine. Cain and Lexi are both already gone.

LAINEYGrandma, can I have some ice cream?

ERINSure, baby.

THERESALainey, what did I say?

ERINWhats wrong with her having a bowl of ice cream?

THERESAI dont like her eating sweets. Its bad enough you give her soda when Im not here.

Erin turns an accusatory look on Lainey.

ERINThat was supposed to be our little secret.

THERESAMom, I really dont want you challenging my authority with my daughter right in front of her.

ERINIts just ice cream, Theresa.

Theresa turns to Derrick.

THERESAWill you say something?

REIDDont get him involved in family disputes.

The words obviously offend Derrick, who stands up.

DERRICKWell I see where I stand then. Come on, Lainey. Lets go see whats on TV.

Derrick picks up Lainey, who is not at all happy to not get ice cream.


(CONTINUED)

LAINEYBut Daddy, ice cream!

DERRICKMommy said no.

The two exit and Theresa rounds on Reid.

THERESADo you have to do that?

REIDWhat? Its not my fault he cant take a joke.

THERESAYou joke too much.

Erin gets up and crosses to the fridge, withdrawing another bottle of wine.

ERINI think were going to need this tonight.

She pops the cork and pours a glass for herself before bringing it back to the table.

ERIN (CONTD)I wonder why those two broke up.

THERESAThis again?

ERINWhat? Im just curious. Its probably because Gabe is so un-affectionate. But hes always been that way. Some therapist would say that was my fault, probably. Blame it on the wicked step-mother.

WALTERAre you drunk?

ERINMaybe a little bit.

We hear a door open and close and Spencer enters looking tired. Erin starts to get up to get him dinner.

ERIN (CONTD)Youre home. I left you a plate in the oven--


(CONTINUED)

SPENCERIts okay, Im not hungry. I was just letting you know I was home. Im going to go relax and then go to sleep.

THERESAWhen does the new big shot come?

Spencer just gives her a tired smile.

THERESA (CONTD)Come on, you can tell me.

SPENCERIf your sources are so informed they should be able to tell you. Good night.

Spencer leaves the room and Erin downs the rest of her glass of wine.

ERINHe needs to loosen up a little. He works too hard.

She reaches for the bottle, but Walter takes it from her reach.

WALTERI think youve had enough.

CUT TO:

INT. RESTAURANT - DINING ROOM - NIGHT 1.18 18

Gabe is eating, and Tae is looking at him expectantly.

GABEWhat?

TAEWere you going to tell me Miranda called?

GABEOf course. I just wasnt sure this was the place to do it.

TAE(a bit pushy)

What did she want?

The pushiness is not lost on Gabe.


(CONTINUED)

GABEWell, if you have to know, she was telling me that she was tired of waiting for me to figure things out, and that we were over.

Tae processes this a bit, but he doesnt take it as good news.

TAEAnd she had to be the one to say that.

GABEIts done, why does that matter?

TAEIt matters because if shed decided to wait it out even longer the two of you would still be together.

The words sting Gabe, and he starts to get angry.

GABE(accusatory)

And how long were you with whats here name?

TAEThats my point! I did that, I made that mistake. You shouldnt.

GABE(guilty)

Shes a sweet girl. I dont want to hurt her.

And there-in is everything. We see that behind the anger is the guilt over his relationship with Miranda. Tae immediately softens at this.

TAEYou think the waiting and wondering wasnt hurting her?

GABEI know, I know it was. I just... I couldnt be the one to end it with her.

The mini-argument we just witnessed has passed.


(CONTINUED)

TAEIt would have been better if youd done it, but at least its done.

GABE(down)

Yeah.

CUT TO:


In the kitchen, after dinner. Lexi has come back down and is washing dishes while Cain dries them, and Erin is making a bunch of sandwiches.

LEXII dont see why I always have to do the dishes.

ERINDo you want to make the lunch boxes for the guests for tomorrow? Ill gladly switch.

Lexi does not like that arrangement.

ERIN (CONTD)It would be nice if we could afford to hire a little more help around here, but moneys tight.

LEXI(heard it a hundred times)

I know, I know.

CAINGreat job, you got her started.

Erin just shakes her head sadly.

ERINI have the worst kids.

Suddenly we hear loud honking right outside, repeatedly.

ERIN (CONTD)What on Earth?

The three of them exit the kitchen into:


INT. SUNSET RESORT - MAIN HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 1.19A 19A

--where Walter, Reid, Theresa, Derrick and Lainey are watching television. They have all noticed the loud noise too. They all just walk straight out the front door.

EXT. SUNSET RESORT - NIGHT 1.19B 19B

There is a cab sitting right outside the main house. We can see that Spencer has come out from the side building where he lives, and Ruth has come outside from her own home.

Walter heads down the steps towards the cab. The horn promptly stops and the cabs back door opens, and SAMUEL HOWELL, 79, a bit feeble-looking but still somewhat spry, with a cane, steps out of the car.

Walter stops, staring at Samuel in abject shock. Samuel sees this and stomps his cane a few times impatiently.

SAMUELIs standing there slack-jawed all you can do? What kind of greeting is that for your father?

The words hit everyone hard.

LEXIFather?

CAINWhat?

ANGLE: RUTHS FACE

Shock, anger and hatred are warring in her expression, and from this we:

CUT TO BLACK.

END OF ACT THREE


ACT FOUR

FADE IN:

EXT. SUNSET RESORT - NIGHT 1.21 21

Were right where we left at the end of Act Three, focused on Walter, who stands there shocked still, and Samuel who grows impatient.

SAMUELWell, are you deaf? Say hello to your old man.

Ruth intercedes immediately, coming bodily between Samuel and Walter, her anger almost palpable.

RUTHWhat greeting does he owe some old man off the street?

SAMUELThis has nothing to do with you. Im here to see my children.

Spencer is now come down from his small apartment, crossing the yard towards them.

RUTH(getting more and more worked up, finally shouting)

Twenty years too late! What, did you get bored of living however you pleased and decided its time to own up to your responsibilities? Well let me tell you this, theres not a damn thing for you here!

Samuel is appalled by Ruths words. Spencer reaches his mother and tries to move her away from the whole scene.

SPENCERMother, calm down.

By this point we begin to notice that several guests have come outside their doors to see what the noise is.

SAMUELYou always had a nasty temper, Ruth.


(CONTINUED)

RUTH(shouting)

Look what I lived with for thirty years! Look what I put up with!

ERIN(to Cain and Lexi)

You two stay here.

Erin hurries across the yard to join the group, Reid reluctantly going too.

SPENCER(cold)

What are you doing here?

SAMUELIm here to see what my son has done for himself here.

SPENCERWell youve seen. Now go home.

WALTERSpencer...

RUTH(still loud, still angry)

What are you really after, old man? For twenty years you didnt give them a second thought, so why now?

ERINRuth, you need to calm down.

SAMUEL(now angry)

What business is it of yours, huh? I can come and go as I please!

RUTHOh yeah, you had no problem doing that when we were married.

ERIN(snapping)

Thats enough!

Everyone is stunned by the sudden flare in her temper.

ERIN (CONTD)This isnt just our front yard! This is our business.


(MORE)

(CONTINUED)

We have guests and youre making a scene. Enough of the shouting.

SPENCERIf he would just go thered be no problem.

ERINI said enough.

Spencer goes quiet, but glares at Samuel. Erin crosses to Walter.

ERIN (CONTD)Honey, the guests are all outside. We cant do this out here.

Walter just nods, unable to get a grip on himself.

WALTER(deadpan)

Right, right. Why dont you... why dont you come inside.

RUTHWhat? After all of this, after all this time, youre going to just invite him in!

ERIN(firm)

Ruth this is not the place for this. If you have some objections to raise please raise them inside the house, otherwise go back to your place.

This is not a tone Erin often takes with her mother-in-law, and Ruths reaction shows it. Slowly they all, as a group head inside the main house, Ruth turning towards her own place, muttering under her breath. Erin turns to the peering, curious guests, trying to do damage control.

ERIN (CONTD)Im sincerely sorry for the disturbance. We wont let anything like this happen again, so please, just go back to your rooms and enjoy yourselves.

She turns around and heads back towards the house.


ERIN (CONTD)

(CONTINUED)

ERIN (CONTD)(to herself)

Half of them are leaving in the morning.

CUT TO:

EXT. RESTAURANT - PARKING LOT - NIGHT 1.22 22

Tae and Gabe have exited the restaurant and are walking towards their cars.

TAEAre you sure you dont want to grab some coffee somewhere?

Gabe looks at his watch teasingly.

GABEWhat? Now? Its almost nine oclock. Arent you supposed to turn into a withered old grandpa soon?

TAEAt least I get sleep, and I dont walk around with raccoon eyes.

Tae playfully brushes his thumb under Gabes eye and theres this moment of LINGERING CONTACT, this moment of connectedness. After a few seconds in which we really notice it linger Gabe breaks it, pushing Taes hand away gently. They walk casually towards their cars in a moment of silence.

TAE (CONTD)So no to coffee?

His persistence is endearing.

GABEAs much as I dont want to go home, yeah its gotta be a no tonight.

The two are walking past the cars now.

GABE (CONTD)Isnt that your car?

TAEIm walking you to yours. Why dont you want to go home?


(CONTINUED)

GABEIts my mother. Shes started bugging me about Miranda today. I told her we broke up, but thats just going to make her bug me about why and who my new prospects are.

They reach Gabes car and approach the drivers side.

TAEI think your new prospects are looking good.

This brings out a shy side in Gabe, almost bashful and he blushes at this, which is just plain adorable.

GABEI think so too.

(beat)Good night.

TAECall me when you get home.

GABE(only half teasing)

You sure you wont be asleep?

TAE(firmer)

Call me when you get home.

GABEOkay, okay.

He gets into the car, but does not yet close the door.

TAEGood night.

Now he closes the door, starts the car. He pulls out of the parking spot, gives a wave to Tae, and drives off. After watching him go for a moment Tae heads back towards his car and we:

CUT TO:

INT. SUNSET RESORT - MAIN HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 1.23 23

Cain and Lexi enter the living room from outside, followed quickly by Reid, Walter, Samuel, then Spencer, Erin, Theresa, Derrick and Lainey in the rear. Theresa stops Erin right at the door.


(CONTINUED)

THERESAWere going to go on and get Lainey back to the house. Its almost her bedtime and this has nothing to do with us.

ERINAre you sure?

THERESAPositive. See you in the morning.

ERINGoodbye. Good night, Lainey.

LAINEYGood night, Grandma!

Theresa, Derrick and Lainey depart and Erin joins the main thrall in the living room, where Spencer, Reid and Walter are all confronting Samuel.

SPENCER(cold)

What exactly are you doing here?

SAMUELThats it, huh? Not so much as a Hey dad?

SPENCERHey dad is something you say when your father comes back from work or a business trip. What the fuck do you think youre doing here is more appropriate in this situation.

WALTERSpence, stop it.

SPENCERI will not. What does he expect after being gone twenty years? He has no right to be here.

SAMUELI have every right to visit my children.

SPENCERFunny that now is the first time you choose to act on that right.


(CONTINUED)

Erin, Cain and Lexi are all feeling the tension in the room. Erin crosses to her children, motioning them towards the back.

ERINWhy dont you two go finish cleaning up the kitchen.

LEXIBut Mom--

Cain grabs his sisters arm and pulls her along.

CAINLets go.

The two leave, and Erin turns back to the mess in the living room. As the arguments there take place we can see them weighing heavier and heavier on Walter, who wishes to be the dutiful child despite whatever years of absence or neglect might mean.

SPENCERAll youve done is bring chaos here tonight. You might as well call a taxi and turn around and go. Ill gladly pay the fare.

WALTEROkay, Spencer, just stop.

SPENCEROh Im just getting started.

SAMUELIs this your place, then? Is this your property? I was under the impression this place belonged to your brother. And he invited me.

This revelation brings shocked silence to the room and everyone turns to Walter, who now looks guiltier than ever.

SAMUEL (CONTD)Well, boy, tell em.

REIDDid you?

WALTER(beating around the bush)

...I might have mentioned him coming to see the place a few times.


(CONTINUED)

SPENCERA few times? How long have you been in contact with the man that abandoned you?

SAMUEL(outraged)

Abandoned? I was chased out by that devil woman!

SPENCER(to Samuel)

A convenient excuse to not come around, I guess.

(to Walter)And how dare you extend an invitation to this man, bring him here!

Spencers anger finally gets the spark going in Walter, and the guilt vanishes, replaced by outrage.

WALTERHow dare I? I own the damn place, Spencer! This is my business, that my wife and I built ourselves. I take a lot of shit, and dont say anything, and youre my brother and I love you, but I be damned if Im going to stand here and be scolded like a child in my own house.

For the second time in as many minutes a stunned silence falls. Spencer seems to be trying to keep himself under control.

SPENCERThis isnt about who owns what, Walter, because it wasnt just youaffected by the sonofabitch coming here.

SAMUELExcuse me?

SPENCER(ignoring him)

You werent the only one abandoned by him and you arent the only one living here.


(MORE)

(CONTINUED)

Whatever you think about mine and Reids reactions-- and you obviously didnt give a damn-- you should have thought about mother and what seeing him would do.

With that Spencer turns and storms out of the house. Reid is much less angry, much more uncertain of what it is hes feeling, but hes siding with Spencer on this one, though there is a moments debate in his mind that we can almost see, but in the end he follows Spencer.

At the door he turns back to Walter, and says, quietly, somberly, something completely not in his personality:

REIDYou should have told us you talked to him.

And then he is gone, and the words are far more visceral where Walter is concerned than anything Spencer shouted.

Samuel has taken in his younger sons with complete disgust.

SAMUELUngrateful brats.

And that comment is enough for Erin, who shakes her head in disdain.

ERINIm going to make coffee.

With that flimsy excuse she disappears into the kitchen. Erin gone, Walter stands there uncertainly for a moment before he gestures towards the couch.

WALTERWell, have a seat.

Samuel sits down, still fuming over the greeting he got.

SAMUELSome greeting.

WALTERWell what did you expect, Dad? You turned up out of the blue... how were they supposed to react?

(a beat)You should have called ahead, let me know you were coming.


SPENCER (CONT'D)

(CONTINUED)

SAMUELI didnt know I needed an appointment to see my own son.

WALTERThings arent that simple, Dad, and you know that. With Mom here, and Spencer. This wasnt your best idea.

SAMUELMaybe youre right. Maybe the whole damn thing was stupid.

He gets up and starts for the door.

WALTERDad--

SAMUELIll call a cab, and wait for it by the front gate.

WALTERDad, just wait a minute.

This gets Samuel to turn around, and we see his age sort of settle on him, and underneath it theres a bit of fear, even weakness.

SAMUELIm an old man, Walter. I dont have much time left to just wait.

And hes out the door.

EXT. SUNSET RESORT - NIGHT 1.23A 23A

Samuel makes his way a bit unsteadily across the yard, towards the gate. He stops and turns momentarily towards the -in-law home, but only for an instant, before he continues on.

REVERSE ON WALTER

Standing on the porch, watching Samuel walk away with a mixture of regret, guilt and relief. After a moment of him standing there Erin comes outside. She says nothing, simply reaches out and gently and comfortingly rubs Walters arm. This is a moment the two are having, and, still touching, the two turn and go back inside.

CUT TO:


INT. SUNSET RESORT - IN-LAW HOME - KITCHEN - NIGHT 1.24 24

Ruth is in the kitchen, washing dishes angrily, slamming them down in the sink and on the draining rack. Reid and Spencer are both watching her, Reid concerned, Spencer difficult to read.

RUTH(furious)

After all these years, what did he think would happen? Did he think someone would be happy to see his conniving, two-timing, withered old face? Where did he get the nerve?

Ruth picks up a soapy glass and starts washing it.

REIDHe said Walter invited him.

Hes said the wrong thing, and immediately Spencer has a hand on his shoulder, trying to shut him up.

SPENCERReid!

Ruth turns around quickly in her shock, dropping the glass as she delivers her line.

RUTHDo what?

(off the breaking glass)Lord all mighty.

Spencer immediately bends down to clean it up.

RUTH (CONTD)Leave it.

She opens the kitchen door, heading out.

REIDWhere are you going? Mom? Mom?

But Ruth is out the door. Reid looks apologetic, knowing hes made a mistake and knowing Spencer is furious.

SPENCERYou really need to get a filter.

The two follow Ruth out the door, but we dont move with them.


(CONTINUED)

REID(as they go)

You think I dont know that?

INT. SUNSET RESORT - MAIN HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 1.24A 24A

Erin and Walter are sitting there, on the couch, talking. Walter looks more miserable than Erin has ever seen him, and she really wants to comfort her husband, but isnt sure how.

ERINWhy didnt you tell anyone you were asking him to come?

WALTERI didnt think he would come, honestly. I was just being polite. Besides, you saw how they reacted. Spencer would have blown a gasket if he knew I was talking to dad once or twice a month.

ERINWell, we see how well that turned out.

WALTERI know, I know. I cant even begin to think about how Im going to fix this.

ERINGive them time, honey. Im sure theyll cool down.

REID (O.S.)Mom! Mom!

Erin and Walter trade looks; they can tell theres a storm coming. Sure enough, just as they turn to the front door it bursts open and Ruth comes in, angrier than either has ever seen her.

ERINOr I could be completely wrong on this one.

RUTHWhat the hell were you thinking?

CUT TO BLACK.

END OF ACT FOUR


ACT FIVE

FADE IN:

EXT. SUNSET RESORT - ANNEX - NIGHT 1.25 25

Were outside of a small little cottage-annex of the Sunset Resort. It is not directly on the property, but is right there, the stone gate around the resort touching distance from the annex. This is where Theresa, Lainey and Derrick are currently living.

INT. SUNSET RESORT - ANNEX - BEDROOM - NIGHT 1.25A 25A

Theresa is in pajamas, getting the bed unmade and ready for sleep. Theresa is tired, and it shows. Derrick comes into the bedroom a moment later, just in boxers pushing the door closed.

THERESA(weary)

Did you make a mess in there?

DERRICKIm thirty-five, not five.

THERESAYou have the aim of a five year old sometimes.

Derrick rolls his eyes, crossing to help her get the bed ready .

DERRICKYou okay?

THERESAIm just really tired. Felt sick all day.

This gets a spark of concern from Derrick, and he moves, checking her forehead.

DERRICKWhat? Are you getting sick?

THERESAI dont think so. Probably just a stomach bug. I felt good after I got home.

DERRICKWhy didnt you say something earlier?


(CONTINUED)

THERESAYou think I could get a word in edge-wise with my mother there going on about poor Gabe and his love life?

The two of them slowly settle into the bed, leaving the lights on.

THERESA (CONTD)The woman knows how to meddle, that much is sure.

DERRICKWell, she is your mother.

He realizes as soon as he says it that it was a bad idea, and the what did you just say look on Theresas face is veritable proof of that. Seeing this, look Derrick immediately begins vocal back-peddling.

DERRICK (CONTD)I just mean that as a family you are all so involved in each others business. Every time we have a fight everyone in your family knows about it. Theres zero privacy where you all are concerned. You all seem to allow it, so of course she has no problem putting her nose in other peoples business. Nobody ever really stops her.

The words bear a ring of truth that Theresa cant exactly deny, so she just lets the matter go, laying back down, and we can see the relief on Derricks face; he somehow managed to get out of that one unscathed.

THERESATomorrow I have to work late, so youll have to pick up Lainey from school.

This is news to Derrick, and he doesnt like it.

DERRICKIts inventory, time. You know how busy I am right now. Why cant your mother do it?

SUNSET "Fifteen Minutes, Tops" 51.CONTINUED:25A 25A

(CONTINUED)

THERESAShes taping all week, you know that, and Dads got a lot on his hands with the guests. Its just tomorrow.

DERRICK(giving in)

I hate when you spring stuff like this on me at the last minute, Theresa.

THERESAIm sorry. I promise to give you more notice in the future.

The two settle in to sleep now, and Theresa reaches over and cuts off her light. There is a beat of silence, and then:

DERRICKI wonder if everythings calmed down over there?

THERESAWith my family? I can guarantee it hasnt.

CUT TO:

INT. SUNSET RESORT - MAIN HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 1.26 26

Ruth has stormed into the living room. Walter and Erin are on their feet, Walter trying to calm Ruth down, Erin looking a bit like a deer in the headlights. Spencer and Reid come in behind her, both looking like theyre about to witness something bad.

WALTERMom, listen--

RUTH(angry, loud)

No, you listen. That man has never once been there for you or your brothers, not once. He didnt give a damn about you, and now you just open up and invite him back into your life like its nothing? Do you know what kind of slap in the face it is to me?

ERINRuth, it isnt that simple.

SUNSET "Fifteen Minutes, Tops" 52.CONTINUED: (2)25A 25A

(CONTINUED)

RUTH(angrier)

You stay out of this! My entire marriage was spent pretending I didnt know what he was doing when he was away at work because I didnt want you three to end up without a father. I know that was my mistake, and Ill have to deal with it, but you, of all people? Who was it that went to every baseball game you ever had? Who was it who worked to the bone to send you to college? Was it that man? No! It was me! Who was it that gave you every dime she had so you could make this bed-and-breakfast dream of yours a reality? It was me!

WALTERYou think I dont know that? I wasnt a kid, Mom. I saw what you did for me, and Im grateful. But no matter what he did in the past, no matter how neglectful he was, hes my father.

RUTH(hurt, emotional)

DNA doesnt make a father! How could you invite him here, knowing the pain it would cause me?

And Ruth breaks down, her anger now giving way to tears of hurt. Ruths words and tears cut right to Walters heart, and he lowers his head, unable to look at her.

MIDDLE-AGED MAN 2 (O.S.)(uncomfortable)

Uh, excuse me?

The room turns and everyone sees Middle-Aged Man 2 standing in the door, looking very uncomfortable, like he wants to disappear.

MIDDLE-AGED MAN 2 (CONTD)I hate to be rude, but, well you see, we have an early day ahead of us, and we need to get some rest, but with all the noise...

ERIN(professional)

Of course, sir. I am so sorry.


(MORE)

(CONTINUED)

I promise we wont let this happen again.

Spencer takes this opportunity to cross to his mother.

SPENCER(softly)

Come on, Mom. Lets get you home.

EXT. SUNSET RESORT - DRIVEWAY - CONTINUOUS - NIGHT 1.26A 26A

We see Samuel waiting at the gate for a taxi as Gabes car pulls by. Gabe NOTICES SAMUEL, but it does not phase him in the slightest. He just continues going until he gets to where the cars are and parks.

TO THE MAIN YARD

Where Middle-Aged Man 2 is walking back towards the guest house and Ruth is being led by Spencer back towards the in-law home.

ANGLE: THE GROUND IN FRONT OF MIDDLE-AGED MAN 2

There are three oxygen tanks propped against the rock wall of a small raised flower bed. Theyre mostly out of the way but hes walking right towards them. Naturally HIS FOOT CATCHES ON ONE and it TIPS OVER, heavily, onto his foot, and he is tripped by it.

The others have seen this.

ERINOh my God!

Erin takes off towards it, Ruth even stops to turn around and look to see whats going on; Cain races there ahead of Erin, rolling the tank away. The others react now, moving towards there.

ERIN (CONTD)(concerned, a bit panicked)

Are you alright?

MIDDLE-AGED MAN 2(in pain)

My foot! My foot!

ERINJesus Christ. Okay just hang on, just hang on.

(rounding on Cain)Move the damn tanks.


ERIN (CONT'D)

(CONTINUED)

Cain rushes to do what she says.

MIDDLE-AGED MAN 2Call an ambulance I think its broken!

This is the last thing Erin wanted to hear.

ERINOkay, sir, just stay calm.

LEXI (O.S.)Mom! Gabe.

Erin turns and we turn with her to see Gabe now hurrying towards them, having noticed the fuss. All the while Middle-Aged Man 2 is moaning in pain.

GABEWhat happened?

ERIN(to Gabe)

He tripped and fell.(to Middle-Aged Man 2)

This is my son, hes a doctor. Hell take a look.

(to Gabe)He thinks he broke it.

(to Middle-Aged Man 2)Everythings gonna be fine. Everythings gonna be fine.

Gabe gently nudges his mother aside; Walter helps her stand, hands on her shoulders to give her his silent strength as they all look on. Cain, finished moving the tanks, is now standing nearby, watching, anxious, feeling guilty. Gabe exams his fit carefully, prodding, feeling, gently flexing, but finally comes to a conclusion.

GABEGood news: it isnt broken.

MIDDLE-AGED MAN 2Are- are you sure? It hurts like a sonofabitch

GABEIm positive. Its going to bruise pretty bad, and youve twisted the ankle a bit, but nothing worse than that. Some ice and some ace bandages and youll be fine.

SUNSET "Fifteen Minutes, Tops" 55.CONTINUED:26A 26A

(CONTINUED)

Erin has never been so relieved to hear something in her life; she almost literally goes limp against Walter.

GABE (CONTD)Cain, help me get him inside.

Cain and Gabe heft the man and maneuver him towards the guest house.

Erin and the others move back towards the main house, see Ruth waiting there.

REIDGabe says hes fine. Twisted ankle, thats all.

RUTH(directly to Walter)

Look at the bad luck youve brought here.

Hoping to head off another argument Spencer guides Ruth back towards her house. Erin turns to Lexi.

ERINGo get the first aid kit and an ice pack and take to your brother.

LEXIOkay.

Lexi goes inside the house to do as she was asked.

REIDThat was fortunate.

ERINTheyll all check out in the morning.

REIDWorse things could have happened.

WALTERLets just go to bed before they do.

INT. SUNSET RESORT - MAIN HOUSE - GABES ROOM - NIGHT 1.27 27

Gabe walks into his room and we can see its some time after. He looks tired. He puts the first aid kit down on his desk and kind of collapses onto his bed. After a moment his cell phone rings.

SUNSET "Fifteen Minutes, Tops" 56.CONTINUED: (2)26A 26A

(CONTINUED)

Surprised he looks at it, then smiles a half smile and answers the phone. Before he even says hello Tae is speaking.

INT. TAES APARTMENT - BEDROOM - NIGHT 1.27A 27A

Tae is laying in bed on his phone.

TAEYou didnt call.

INT. SUNSET RESORT - MAIN HOUSE - GABES ROOM - NIGHT 1.27B 27B

GABEIm sorry, something happened here.

TAE (O.S.)(through the phone)

Everything okay?

GABEYeah. A guest had a fall in the main yard, thats all.

Gabe glances at the clock on his bedside table. It reads 10:47pm.

GABE (CONTD)I figured you would be asleep by now.

INT. TAES APARTMENT - BEDROOM - NIGHT 1.27C 27C

TAEI stayed up because I expected you to call when you got home.

GABE (O.S.)(through the phone)

Im sorry I kept you up. Go on and get some sleep.

TAE(yawning)

Fine, I see you dont want to talk to me.

INT. SUNSET RESORT - MAIN HOUSE - GABES ROOM - NIGHT 1.27D 27D

GABEYou got me. Go to sleep.

There is a knock at Gabes door.


(CONTINUED)

ERIN (O.S.)Gabe?

GABEHey, I gotta go. Night.

TAE (O.S.)(through the phone)

Night.

Gabe hangs up the phone just as the door opens and Erin looks in.

ERINHey. Just wanted to see Mr. Warner was doing.

GABEHes fine. Right now kind of huffing and puffing, nothing serious.

ERINThank God for that.

(a beat)You look tired.

GABEYeah, I am a little.

ERINDid you eat?

GABEYeah, I had dinner.

ERINGood.

(longer beat)Listen, about earlier, the whole Miranda thing--

GABEMom, please dont.

ERINI just want to say sorry. I just hate seeing you get so far along then just call it quits. This seems to be a repeating pattern with you.

GABEMom, were not going to talk about this.

SUNSET "Fifteen Minutes, Tops" 58.CONTINUED:27D 27D

(CONTINUED)

ERINIm not trying to intrude, Im not. Im just concerned. I want you to be happy.

GABEI am happy. Miranda and I just didnt work for each other.

ERINOkay, I can respect that.

(awkward beat)Was tonight with another girl...?

Gabe gets off his bed and goes to the door, starting to close it.

GABEGood night, Mom.

ERINIm just curious, thats all!

Gabe shuts and locks the door.

ERIN (O.S.) (CONTD)I want to see grand children, you know!

Gabe presses his back against the door, exhales loudly. Dealing with this is tiring to him. He crosses to his bed, collapses onto it.

CUT TO:

EXT. SUNSET RESORT - MORNING - DAY 2.28 28

Ruth is outside hanging laundry on a line in front of her home and the two middle-aged couples are, with Walters help, loading up their car with their luggage. As soon as the trunk is closed the couple is in the car, driving away. Walter makes his way over to Ruth.

WALTERGood morning.

RUTHYou just lost business, I dont see whats so good about it.

WALTERSomeones cranky.

SUNSET "Fifteen Minutes, Tops" 59.CONTINUED: (2)27D 27D

(CONTINUED)

RUTHWell, someone didnt sleep last night, so I wonder why?

Ruth unfolds a sheet violently before putting it on the line.

WALTERMom, I know how you feel--

RUTHYou couldnt possibly know how I feel. Were you betrayed by your own son?

WALTERBetrayed?

RUTHYes, betrayed. My oldest son, the one who helped me raise his younger brothers while his no-good father was off having his little flings, that son, turned around and invited the one person who has caused me more pain than anyone else in this world to the place I live. That, Walter, is a betrayal.

WALTEROkay. Im sorry for that, Im sorry I didnt tell you. But honestly I didnt think he would come!

RUTHWhy were you even talking to him in the first place?

WALTERBecause hes my father. I hoped that maybe as hes gotten older hes regretted his past. I need to give him that chance.

(emotional, pleading)I need to know that theres something good in there, somewhere, because thats where I come from.

Walters words have reached Ruth on some level, like any emotional appeal from a child to a mother would, but there are some wounds that simply cant be overlooked in that regard.


(CONTINUED)

RUTHSending him away is the best thing you could have possibly done.

WALTERDoesnt the Bible say to forgive?

RUTHThe Bible also says an eye for an eye, and in this case that wouldnt quite even the score.

Ruth turns and storms inside her house, leaving a disconsolate Walter unsure of what to do. From the door of the main house Erin was watching all of this. She comes down to him, puts her arms around his back lovingly.

ERINYou okay?

WALTER(honestly)

Im not sure.

ERINTheres nothing you can do, you know that, right? Some hurts never heal. But even if they dont, life goes on.

As if to emphasize this:

LAINEY (O.S.)Grandma! Grandpa!

She is running towards them from the gate, laughing. Derrick and Theresa are walking behind her. The laughter is beautiful, and it brings a smile to Walters face as Erin goes running too, scooping Lainey up into a hug.

From the front door Gabe comes out, dressed for work.

GABEIve got to get going. See you later, Dad.

WALTER(mood lifting a little)

Have a good day.

And we start drifting upwards, taking in the whole of the yard as we see Spencer emerge from his own apartment over the guest house, also dressed for work. From the main house comes Cain.


(CONTINUED)

WALTER (CONTD)Got a group today?

CAINJust one, but its an early one.

WALTERBe careful, the waters still cold.

CAINYou think I dont know the water?

ERIN(to Lainey)

You want some breakfast? Lets go inside and get some breakfast!

LAINEYPancakes! I want pancakes!

And from this warming family moment we:

CUT TO BLACK.

END OF SHOW


sunset s01e01

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