Nothing Is Lost

NOTHING IS LOST
Written by
Brendan Thatcher
(c) Loose Cannon Media

INT. RYAN’S BEDROOM - MORNING
MONTAGE
-Close up of alarm clock. Times changes from 6:59 to 7:00.

Hand hits the snooze.
-Ryan in bed. No movement.
-Close up of alarm clock. The time says 7:10. Hand fumbles,

turns off alarm.
-Ryan slowly, groggily getting out of bed. He sits on the

edge of the bed, holding his head in his hands. He braces
himself and stands up, stumbling off screen.
INT. HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
We see the light turn on in the bathroom, and the door shuts.
INT. RYAN’S BEDROOM - LATER
Close- up of alarm. Time says 7:30.
INT. HALLWAY - LATER
Ryan stumbles out in a towel with his clothes bunched up in

his hands, walks toward his room. He's still not really
awake. Walks off screen.
INT. BREAKFAST TABLE - LATER

Ryan, fully dressed and eating breakfast staring blankly at
the cereal box.
INT. BATHROOM - LATER
Ryan brushes his teeth.
INT. GARAGE - LATER
Ryan gets into his car and drives out of the garage.
2.
EXT. SEATTLE STREETS - MOMENTS LATER
-Series of shots of him driving down the street, getting to

work.
END OF MONTAGE
INT. WORK - MOMENTS LATER
Ryan walks into work. He sees Carl, and he immediately

plasters a fake smile on his face. Carl is sitting at his
desk, typing away on his computer.
RYAN
Mornin', Carl.
CARL
Mornin', Ryan.
Carl turns around in his chair to face Ryan.
CARL (CONT’D)
Late again, eh? Greg's not gonna
like that.
RYAN
Only if someone tells him.
CARL
That's true, dude. Hey, you ever
get those projections?
RYAN
Yeah, I'll email you what I got
right now. Yesterday was crazy
busy!
INT. RYAN’S DESK - MOMENTS LATER
Ryan walks to his desk. He notices that he's got some

voicemails, so he picks up the phone and dials some numbers.
He turns his monitor on and clicks away. We see his computer
screen with many unread messages. As he's listening to his
voicemail, he checks his emails.
INT. LUNCHROOM - AFTERNOON
Ryan is eating his lunch alone. Carl walks up to him.

3.
CARL
You gonna send me those
projections?
RYAN
Oh, shit! Yeah, I'm sorry. I
totally forgot. I just started
checking my messages, and . . .
CARL
Look, I don't care about your lame-
ass excuses. I needed those like 3
hours ago, OK?
RYAN
Sure thing, man. As soon as I'm
done with lunch, I promise.
INT. RYAN’S DESK - LATER
Ryan is working at his desk. Up walks Greg in a business

suit. Ryan sees him and stops slouching, starts typing
faster.
GREG
Hey Ryan.
RYAN
Hello Greg.
Pause.
GREG
What are you up to?
RYAN
I'm getting information together
for the proposal like you asked.
GREG
You're not done with those yet?
Beat
RYAN
Well, I uh . . . I was working on
those projections for Carl
yesterday, and, well, it . . . it
took me longer than uh . . . I . .
. uh . . . expected.
GREG
What time did you get in today?
4.
RYAN
Why?
GREG
You were late again, weren't you?
RYAN
Well, I . . . uh . . .
GREG
That's two days in a row! You
really can't continue like this and
expect to do well here.
RYAN
Look, I'm sorry. I won't let it
happen again.
GREG
Look, if you're late again, I'll
have to put you on probation. You
don't want that.
RYAN
I know. Look, I'm really sorry. I
won't be late again. I promise.
GREG
Well, I can't trust that you won't,
and I need to be sure you'll get
here on time for now on. I want you
to sign in for the rest of the week
and all of next.
RYAN
OK.
GREG
And try to get that project done so
you can start organizing the files
down in Archive. I want them done
by the end of the week.
RYAN
OK.
GREG
Thanks, Ryan. Just get everything
done.
RYAN
OK. I will.
5.
Greg walks away, and Ryan turns back to his computer, pecking
hard at the computer in frustration.
EXT. RYAN’S WORK - NIGHT
It's dark outside.
INT. RYAN’S WORK - NIGHT
Pan of empty chairs and blank computer screens until we see

Ryan working at his desk. He shuts down his computer and
tidies up a bit and leaves.
EXT. PARKING LOT - MOMENTS LATER
Ryan fumbles with his keys in the dark as he gets into his
car.
INT. RYAN’S CAR
Ryan turns the ignition and turns the CD player on. He starts
to drive.
EXT. SEATTLE NIGHT SKYLINE - LATER
Panning shot of city at night.
INT. GARAGE - LATER
Ryan drives into the garage.
EXT. OUTSIDE RYAN’S HOUSE - MOMENTS LATER
Ryan fumbles with his keys as he goes into the dark house.
The door shuts and the porch light flicks on, followed by the
lights inside the house which can be seen from outside.
INT. KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
Ryan is standing in front of the open fridge. His cell rings.

He answers.
RYAN
Hello?
6.
FRED
What's up, bra?
RYAN
Just got home from work, man.
What're you up to?
FRED
Dude, it's like seven thirty, man.
Late night at work, huh?
RYAN
Yeah, it's been crazy lately.
FRED
Sounds like it. Hey, a bunch of us
are going to hang out at The Kiss
Cafe tonight. You interested?
RYAN
Uh . . . sure, I can swing that. I
haven't had dinner yet, so I'll
just eat there. What time?
FRED
In like half an hour. Happy hour
starts at eight.
RYAN
Sick! Who’s all going?
FRED
I just talked to Randy, and he's
going. Penny, of course.
RYAN
Of course. I'll head out in a few.
FRED
Nice! I'll see ya then.
RYAN
Later, dude.
FRED
Later!
Ryan hangs up phone. Staring at the still open fridge, we

hear his stomach rumble. Sighing, he closes the door.
EXT. GARAGE - MOMENTS LATER
Ryan leaves the house.

7.
INT. BAR - LATER
MONTAGE
-Shot of Ryan surrounded by friends at the bar. He's the only

one eating.
-The table is half empty.
-Ryan, Fred, and Penny are talking.
END OF MONTAGE
EXT. STREET - LATER
Ryan, Fred, and Penny leave. Fred and Penny are holding hands
as the three are walking toward their cars.
RYAN
. . . so, then I told her that I
thought we should try to work
things out.
PENNY
But Ryan, she's not ready for a
relationship. Her apprenticeship is
over at the end of August.
RYAN
Then why did we hang out so much?
Was she leading me on?
PENNY
Look, I dunno, but she just doesn't
want to date right now, that's all.
RYAN
Then you're saying she's leading me
on.
FRED
Look, man, you gotta cool your
jets, alright? Stop being so
intense! You'll meet someone, don't
worry!
RYAN
Look, I'm not worried. I like
Breanne. I thought she liked me.
8.
FRED
Well, it didn't help that you asked
Gina out a few weeks ago.
RYAN
Breanne and I weren't dating at
that point. Just hanging out.
FRED
But you showed interest.
RYAN
Of course! But we weren't dating,
that's my point. There are no rules
if you're not dating.
PENNY
Ryan . . .
FRED
Dude, there are.
RYAN
Whatever. Look, my car's across the
street. I'll see you guys later.
FRED
Just think about what we're sayin'.
RYAN
Yeah, sure thing.
MONTAGE
EXT. STREET - CONTINUOUS
Ryan jaywalks across the street as Fred and Penny look on.
They walk away as Ryan gets into his car.
INT. RYAN’S CAR - CONTINUOUS
Focus on the clock. It says 11:33 PM.
INT. GARAGE - LATER
Ryan drives into his garage.

9.
INT. BATHROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Ryan is brushing his teeth, taking his contacts out.
INT. RYAN’S BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Ryan pulling his sweatshirt down at his bedside. Ryan climbs

in bed. He sets his alarm and lies down. Clock says 12:17.
The clock transitions to 1:48. Ryan is tossing and turning in

bed, unable to sleep.
Times changes from 6:59 to 7:00. Hand hits the snooze.
Ryan in bed. No movement.
The alarm clock says 7:10. Hand fumbles, turns off alarm.
Ryan slowly, groggily getting out of bed. He sits on the edge
of the bed, holding his head in his hands. He braces himself
and stands up, stumbling out of his room.
INT. HALLWAY - MOMENTS LATER

The light turns on in the bathroom, and the door shuts.
Alarm clock says 7:30.
INT. HALLWAY - MOMENTS LATER
Ryan stumbles out in a towel with his clothes bunched up in

his hands. He's still not really awake.
10.
Ryan, fully dressed, is eating breakfast staring blankly at

the cereal box.
EXT. OUTSIDE RYAN’S WORK - LATER
Ryan walk into building, sliding his card in a reader at the

entrance.
END OF MONTAGE
Ryan is sitting at his desk typing away. Greg walks up.
GREG
Ryan, you were 5 minutes late
today.
RYAN
I know. Look, I worked late last
night. I was tired.
GREG
Oh. How late did you work last
night?
RYAN
I was here until seven.
GREG
What did you get done?
RYAN
Here.
Ryan clicks a few times and opens some file folders and
files.
RYAN (CONT’D)
I'm half done with that project you
told me to finish.
GREG
Only half?
11.
RYAN
Yeah, I had to do some additional
research, and it wasn't easy
combining all the data into a
coherent document.
GREG
It shouldn't be that hard. Here,
let me take a look at what you did.
Greg leans over the computer, nudging Ryan out of the way a
little. Grabbing the mouse, Greg scrolls through Ryan's
document.
GREG (CONT’D)
This is wrong. And that's not the
right account. Ryan, what have you
been doing?
RYAN
What you asked me to do! Look, I'm
working really hard on this.
GREG
You've got to change your search
parameters, because this data isn't
correct. And your format is wrong.
You'll have to fix this before you
can go on.
Ryan's facial expression hardens. He's trying not to lose his

cool. He says the next through his teeth, frustrated.
RYAN
OK.
GREG
Look, I'm glad you worked extra
last night, but you're not really
supposed to do that. Plus, you were
still a little late today. I'll let
it pass this time because of the
extra time you put in, but you know
you can't get overtime because
you’re salaried.
RYAN
OK.
GREG
You just have to get your work done
during normal business hours, OK?
12.
RYAN
OK.
Ryan starts typing angrily at the computer as Greg walks

away.
EXT. PARK PATH - DAY
High school Ryan is holding hands with Destiny as they walk.
RYAN
So, Destiny, what do you say?
DESTINY
I thought you might ask me. I’ve
been thinking about it lately.
RYAN
And?
DESTINY
I don't know what my parents would
think.
RYAN
Who cares what they think? I think
it's a great idea.
DESTINY
I dunno. You really think so?
RYAN
Sure!
DESTINY
It's a big step, you know.
RYAN
Look, my parents LOVE you, and I
don't want to spend a week at the
beach without you. Just think about
it. We can go swimming, there's a
hot tub . . .
Ryan puts his arm around her waist as his voice becomes
suggestive.
DESTINY
Stop it!
Destiny pushes him away, laughing. She obviously enjoys the

attention.
13.
RYAN
It’s in two weeks. It's the last
time my family will all be together
before we leave for college.
Destiny suddenly becomes withdrawn.
DESTINY
Yeah.
RYAN
Didja get your letter yet? Mine
came in the mail last week.
DESTINY
I remember you telling me that. No,
not yet. What else is there to do
at the beach?
RYAN
Well, there's this lake nearby that
we can rent canoes and stuff.
Paddleboats I think.
DESTINY
I am NOT riding in a paddleboat.
RYAN
Suit yourself. It’s a lot of fun!
DESTINY
Well, you can rent one with your
goofy younger brother. I'll work on
my tan.
RYAN
I like that idea!
DESTINY
Of course you do!
RYAN
And we can go on hikes, we always
play some kind of board game as a
family, there's tons of places to
go eat. I love the beach! Having
you there would be the best!
DESTINY
Well, I'll talk to my parents. I
want to go, I really do!
RYAN
Sick! This is going to be killer!
14.
The couple kiss briefly as they walk.
INT. PSYCHOLOGIST OFFICE - DAY
Ryan is sitting in an overstuffed chair, facing Charles, who

is writing on a notepad.
CHARLES
How is work going?
RYAN
Not great. I'm messing up a lot
lately.
CHARLES
How so?
RYAN
It takes me forever to do anything,
and half of what I do is wrong. I'm
afraid I'm going to get fired.
CHARLES
You've said that before. Do you
think your fear of losing your job
is causing you to perform badly?
RYAN
I don't think so. I mean, I haven't
thought of it that way, but my job
is so easy, it would be hard to get
fired.
CHARLES
Is that what you really think?
RYAN
Yeah. Most of my job is boring,
repetitive research. It doesn't
take much skill to do what I do.
CHARLES
Sounds like you have a bad attitude
about it.
RYAN
Yeah, sure. It's not really what I
want to do.
CHARLES
What do you really want to do?
15.
RYAN
I dunno. I haven't figured out
"what I want to be when I grow up."
CHARLES
But you are grown up. You're in
your mid twenties.
RYAN
Yeah, I know. I guess I'm not ready
to settle down yet. I want to keep
my options open.
CHARLES
I see. And when will you be ready
to settle down?
RYAN
I dunno. I think I'll know when it
happens.
CHARLES
Well, a lot of people in their
twenties go through a lot of
changes. It's not uncommon for you
to be going through this. Just
realize that it's going to be a
little bit stressful for you as you
figure out who you are and what you
want to do.
RYAN
Yeah, I guess. But I know I need to
do as well as I can at work.
CHARLES
One thing that may be affecting
your functioning at work is your
sleep. How have you been sleeping?
RYAN
Terrible. I haven't been able to
sleep well lately. I dunno what it
is.
CHARLES
Do you have a lot on your mind when
you're in bed?
RYAN
Yeah. I think a lot about my
problems. And my past.
16.
CHARLES
Your past? What about it?
RYAN
Well . . . uh . . . I think about
one of my ex-girlfriends, Destiny,
a lot.
CHARLES
Can you explain a little more?
RYAN
Uh . . . sure. I mean, we dated in
high school. She broke up with me
'cause she went to a different
college.
CHARLES
And this breakup was hard for you?
RYAN
Yeah. We were supposed to go to the
same school, but she didn't get in.
She got accepted out of state.
CHARLES
And this was how long ago?
RYAN
Shit, it was like . . . five years
ago. Right after high school.
CHARLES
And you think about her still?
RYAN
Well, I try not to, but it was a
pretty intense relationship.
CHARLES
Have you talked to her since then?
RYAN
Not really. She has a boyfriend
now. It probably wouldn't be
appropriate.
CHARLES
How do you know she has a
boyfriend?
17.
RYAN
We're friends on Facebook. Her
status says she's in a
relationship.
CHARLES
I see. Have you had any serious
relationships since then?
RYAN
Not really. I mean, I've gone on
some dates, but not much else.
CHARLES
What's the name of the girl you
were seeing lately? Brandy?
RYAN
Breanne. And that's complicated.
We're not really seeing each other
anymore.
CHARLES
Yes, I remember you telling me that
last time. Well, Ryan, our time is
up for today.
RYAN
Ok.
CHARLES
Would you like to schedule another
session?
RYAN
Sure.
EXT. PARK PATH - AFTERNOON
Ryan and Frances are walking down a park path. Both are
holding coffees.
RYAN
So . . . uh . . . Frances . . .
what do you do in your spare time?
FRANCES
I like to knit.
RYAN
Knit, huh? Like sweaters and stuff?
18.
FRANCES
Yeah, but also scarves and hats
too. I could knit you something!
RYAN
(Rolls his eyes)
That would be great.
FRANCES
And you?
RYAN
Well, I used to run a lot. My buddy
and I used to play racquetball, but
I really don't have a lot of time
lately. I like to stay active.
FRANCES
Oh, I see. So, what do you do now?
RYAN
Oh, I work for a financial company
downtown. I'm a research analyst.
FRANCES
I mean, what do you do for fun now?
RYAN
Oh! Well . . . uh . . . I hang out
with my friends. We go out drinking
every now and then. Do you drink?
FRANCES
No. I don't like drinking.
RYAN
Oh. Well, then I won't invite you
next time. I mean . . . gosh,
that's not what I meant.
Awkward silence.
RYAN (CONT’D)
I've actually been working a lot
lately. It's been crazy at work,
and I've been putting in some extra
time.
FRANCES
Yeah? I'm surprised you have time
for our date!
19.
RYAN
Very funny! So, what do you want to
do now?
FRANCES
Actually, I have to get going. I'm
meeting up with my friend for a
little girl talk.
RYAN
Oh, OK. It was good hanging out,
Frances.
FRANCES
Yeah, it was.
RYAN
You wanna go on another date?
FRANCES
Why don't I call you? I've got your
phone number now, so I'll let you
know.
RYAN
Alright. I'll see you later, then?
FRANCES
Yeah, I'll see you later!
They wave to each other as Frances heads away. Ryan looks

after her and then keeps walking.
MONTAGE
Ryan and Destiny are walking in the park
Ryan walking alone.
INT. WORK - DAY
Ryan at work, typing at his computer. Various shots of Ryan

interacting with Greg and Carl.
20.
Ryan in bed, the time says 10:06 AM. He slowly stirs, looking
up at the clock, and flopping back to sleep.
Ryan eating breakfast.
INT. LIVING ROOM - LATER
Ryan watching TV. Shot of Ryan playing a video game. Shot of

Ryan asleep on the couch.
END OF MONTAGE
INT. WORK - LATER
Ryan walks into work, sees Carl.
CARL
What up, Ryan?
RYAN
Hey Carl.
CARL
How was your weekend?
RYAN
Oh, it was pretty low key. Just
took it easy. You?
CARL
Dude, I saw Bloc Party at Neumos.
It was pretty killer.
RYAN
Oh, yeah yeah! I love Bloc Party! I
didn't know they were in town.
CARL
Yeah, I'm surprised you weren't
there! Who have you seen lately?
RYAN
Well . . . uh . . . I really
haven't gone to a show in a while.
I've been, you know, busy.
21.
CARL
Busy taking it easy?
RYAN
Yeah, something like that. Hey, did
you get those projections I sent
you yesterday?
CARL
Oh, yeah, thanks. It all looks
good. I'll send them on up after I
clean up the data.
RYAN
Sweet. Well, I gotta get to work.
Ryan walks to his desk, sits down, and stares at his blank
computer screen. A beat. Ryan starts his computer and checks
his messages.
Ryan is talking with Charles as they sit in the overstuffed

chairs.
RYAN
Work's been better lately.
CHARLES
Have you been sleeping better?
RYAN
A little. I try to get to bed
earlier now. Mornings still suck.
CHARLES
Keep working on getting to bed
early. I think you'll start to
function much better at work as a
result. Do you still think about
your past?
RYAN
Well, sure. But I'm trying to move
on. I went on a date the other day.
CHARLES
Really? How did it go?
RYAN
I dunno. Not well I think. She said
she'd call me.
22.
CHARLES
Why is that a sign that the date
didn't go well?
RYAN
Cause. The girl never calls. The
guy's supposed to call. But that's
alright. She's not really my type.
CHARLES
How do you know that after one
date?
RYAN
We talked about what we did for
fun. She knits.
CHARLES
And why is that a big deal? A lot
of people like to knit.
RYAN
I dunno. It's just not a very cool
hobby.
CHARLES
And what is a cool hobby?
RYAN
Like active stuff. Running, or some
kind of sport.
CHARLES
Do you do any of those kinds of
things?
RYAN
I used to.
CHARLES
And why don't you do them anymore?
RYAN
I dunno. I guess I just don't feel
all that motivated right now. I
just feel really drained.
CHARLES
What drains you, do you think?
RYAN
I haven't really thought about it.
23.
CHARLES
Sounds like you're stuck in a rut.
RYAN
Really? I think I'm doing just
fine.
CHARLES
Then why are you seeing a
psychologist?
RYAN
It's been a hard year. We've talked
about that.
CHARLES
Yes, you have.
Pause
CHARLES (CONT’D)
I think the next step is to figure
out why you feel so drained. I want
you to think about it. Maybe do
some journaling. Something is
causing your sleep pattern to be
chaotic, and for you to not
function well at work. Have you
thought about going back to school?
RYAN
Not really. I don't know what I'd
go back for.
CHARLES
Well, you think about that too, OK?
RYAN
OK.
Pause
RYAN (CONT’D)
I've been thinking of quitting my
job.
CHARLES
Why would you do that?
RYAN
Cause I really don't like what I
do. I want to do something else.
24.
CHARLES
What else can you see yourself
doing?
RYAN
That's the problem. I need to
figure that out.
CHARLES
Well, I don't think you should make
a big change like that just yet.
You've got enough stress as it is.
RYAN
But one of my biggest stresses is
my job!
CHARLES
Yes, but I bet you that not having
a job would be an even bigger
stress.
RYAN
True, but I don't know how much
longer I can last at this job
without going crazy.
CHARLES
Well, you're going to do what
you're going to do, but I can't
recommend you quitting your job.
You need some stability.
RYAN
Yeah, sure, stability.
INT. RACQUETBALL COURT - DAY
High school Ryan is wearing shorts and a t-shirt, racquet in

hand for racquetball. Mr. Newman, the PE teacher, is standing
at the front of the group with clipboard in hand.
MR. NEWMAN
Ok, class. Everyone pair up and
tell me your partner's name. This
will be who you will be with for
the entire quarter, so pick
carefully!
Shot of Ryan glancing at Destiny. He catches her eye, and he

turns toward her. She's standing in a group of girls, who are
all nervously looking around, hoping to be picked by some
cute boy. Ryan walks up to her.
25.
RYAN
Hey, Destiny! You wanna be my
partner?
Destiny giggles.
DESTINY
Sure!
RYAN
Sick!
The couple walk over to Mr. Newman. They are the first, as
the rest of the girls are preening for the boys, who don't
know quite what to do.
INT. LIVING ROOM - DAY
Ryan and Destiny are making out on a couch. Destiny pulls

away.
DESTINY
Why did you pick me as your
racquetball partner?
RYAN
Is that what you were thinking just
now?
DESTINY
Well, I was thinking that we
wouldn't be together if you hadn't
asked me to be your partner. I
wanted to know why. I mean, we
never really talked last year in
junior high.
RYAN
Yeah, well, junior high was
different.
DESTINY
Were you interested in me last
year?
RYAN
Yeah, I was. I asked to dance with
you, remember?
DESTINY
Yeah, I remember. That's what got
my attention.
26.
RYAN
Well, I'm glad I did.
DESTINY
Yeah, me too. Why didn't you ask me
out then?
RYAN
It was junior high. I didn't know
what I was doing.
DESTINY
And you do now?
RYAN
Of course. I'm here, aren't I?
DESTINY
Yes, you are! It all seems so
perfect, like I've known you my
whole life.
RYAN
I feel the same way.
EXT. RUNNING PATH - DAY
20's Ryan runs. He looks frustrated, taking out his anger

with the run. He stops his watch as he passes a checkpoint,
slows down, looking at the time, and then putting his hands
on top of his head in a "cool down" position as he walks off
the run. He's breathing hard and sweating profusely. As he's
cooling down, he sees Fred and Penny walking hand in hand
coming the opposite direction. They recognize each other and
smile, stopping to say hello and talk.
FRED
Hey, Ryan!
RYAN
What up, guys?
PENNY
Just walking the lake. Looks like
you just went for a run.
RYAN
Yeah, it was a good one. Broke my
old record.
PENNY
You've been working out a ton
lately, haven't you?
27.
RYAN
Yeah. The weather's been so nice,
and it's been easier to get out.
What are you guys up to today?
FRED
We're going to my work's barbecue.
My boss always does his famous
steak. It's going to be amazing.
RYAN
Sweet! Sounds like fun.
PENNY
What are you up to?
RYAN
I dunno. I really haven't thought
that far ahead.
FRED
Dude, after the barbeque, we should
all hang out at the The Kiss Cafe!
It's been awhile since we've been
to our old hangout.
RYAN
Sick! Yeah, that's a great idea! We
should totally hit that up! What
time?
FRED
How about eight? That will give us
enough time to hang out, eat, and
take off.
RYAN
For sure. I'll meet you guys there.
FRED
Well, we gotta get going. We'll see
you tonight, dude.
RYAN
Yeah yeah, for sure. Later!
Ryan continues to walk around the park. A few moments later,

his cell rings. Digging it out of his running shorts, he
notices the caller ID says Frances. He answers the phone.
RYAN (CONT’D)
Frances! What's up?
28.
FRANCES
Hey, Ryan. How are you?
RYAN
Good. I just finished a run. How
have you been?
FRANCES
Good. Say, I was wondering if you
wanted to meet for coffee today?
RYAN
Sure! There's that Starbucks we
went to that one time. You wanna
meet there?
FRANCES
Actually, I was thinking of the
Starbucks in the U District. You
know where it is?
RYAN
Yeah yeah! I can be there in like
twenty minutes.
FRANCES
Oh. I won't be available for three
hours. Is that OK?
RYAN
Uh . . . sure, that's not a
problem. I'll meet you there then,
alright?
FRANCES
Sounds good. See you, Ryan.
RYAN
See ya, Frances.
Ryan hangs up and continues walking around, a slight smile on

his face.
INT. COFFEE SHOP - NIGHT
Ryan is waiting by himself at the coffee shop with a coffee

in hand. He's been waiting for a while, and is staring around
awkwardly. In walks Frances.
RYAN
Oh, hey Frances!
29.
FRANCES
Hi, Ryan. Have you been here long?
RYAN
No, not really. You want me to buy
you a coffee?
FRANCES
No, that's alright. Wait here. I'll
be right back.
RYAN
Oh, OK.
Ryan watches Frances get in line, order a coffee, and wait

for it to be made. Frances walks over and sits down.
FRANCES
So, how's it going?
RYAN
Oh, pretty good. And you?
FRANCES
Good! Life's been so busy lately.
RYAN
Oh, yeah, for me too.
Awkward pause as both sip from their cups.
FRANCES
There's actually a reason I wanted
to talk to you.
RYAN
Yeah?
FRANCES
Yeah. I've been thinking about,
well, you know, us, and I've
decided that I'm just not ready to
pursue a relationship with you.
RYAN
Yeah?
FRANCES
Yeah. I just don't think that we're
all that compatible, that's all.
30.
RYAN
Well, that's cool. I mean, I'm not
all that interested in a serious
relationship right now, anyway. I'm
way cool with keeping it low key.
FRANCES
I'm glad you feel that way!
RYAN
So, does this mean we'll still hang
out?
FRANCES
Um . . . sure, I think that's a
great idea.
RYAN
Great! So, what have you been up to
lately? I haven't seen you in a
couple of weeks.
FRANCES
Same 'ol same 'ol. Work, some new
knitting projects.
RYAN
(Rolls his eyes)
Cool.
INT. COFFEE SHOP - LATER
Ryan and Frances are still talking at the coffee shop.
RYAN
. . . my favorite song on that
album is "Like Eating Glass."
FRANCES
I really don't know Bloc Party all
that much. Just what's on the
radio.
RYAN
Wow. They are such an amazing band!
I love those guys!
FRANCES
I can tell!
Ryan's phone chirps. Ryan looks at the caller ID.

31.
RYAN
Oh, shit! I totally forgot?
FRANCES
What?
Ryan answers his phone, ignoring Frances.
RYAN
Hey, Fred. . . Yeah . . . Um . . .
I'm hanging out with Frances . . .
Yeah . . . Dude, I'm totally sorry
. . . I know . . . It totally
slipped my mind . . . How much
longer are you guys going to be
there? . . . Dude, I'm really
sorry, really! . . . Yeah . . .
I'll see you later . . . bye.
Ryan hangs his phone.
RYAN (CONT’D)
I was supposed to meet my best
friend Fred and his girlfriend
Penny at the The Kiss Cafe. I
totally spaced it!
FRANCES
Did I make you miss hanging out
with your friends?
RYAN
No, it's not your fault. I shoulda
remembered, that's all. It's OK,
really. It's my fault.
FRANCES
Are you going to be able to hang
out with them?
RYAN
Naw, it's too late. They'd be gone
before I got there. It's across
town. I shouldn'ta talked so much,
I guess.
FRANCES
Well, I'm sorry anyway.
RYAN
Really, it's OK. Look, I should get
going anyway. I'll see you around.
32.
FRANCES
Goodbye, Ryan.
RYAN
Later.
Ryan waits for a beat, wondering if he's going to get a hug

goodbye. Frances stays seated, so Ryan leaves. It's an
awkward moment.
INT. RYAN’S CAR - MOMENTS LATER
Fade in of Ryan driving home, changing stations on his radio.

He can't find anything he likes, so he turns off the radio.
RYAN (V.O.)
I can't believe I forgot! Hanging
out with Frances was so lame! We
don't have ANYTHING in common!
We're from totally different
worlds! Why did I forget? I ALWAYS
forget stuff like that! What's up
with that shit, anyway? Now I've
offended my best friends! Damnit!
This is so frustrating! I never
want to do that again! Next time I
shouldn't make plans like that. I
shouldn't double book. I just go on
this auto-mode, and totally space
everything. Next time, I'll just
think before I make plans like
that. I ALWAYS do this kind of
thing! ALWAYS! It's like I
purposefully sabotage my life!
What's up with that? Why can't I do
anything right? I screw up all the
time; at work, with my friends,
with girls- everything! I'm such an
idiot! Wait, my psychologist told
me to say STOP whenever I get down
on myself.
Pause
RYAN (V.O.)
Stop.
Pause.
RYAN (V.O.)
STOP!
Pause. Screams the next STOP out loud in the car.

33.
RYAN
STOP!!!
RYAN (V.O.)
There, that should make him happy!
MONTAGE
EXT. OUTSIDE RYAN’S HOUSE - MOMENTS LATER
Ryan drives up to his house and gets out. Ryan walks inside
and the lights come on.
Shot of Ryan sleeping.
INT. RYAN’S DESK - DAY
Shot of Ryan at work.
Shot of Ryan talking with Charles in the overstuffed chairs.
INT. RYAN’S CAR - DAY
Shot of Ryan driving.
EXT. RUNNING PATH - DAY
Shot of Ryan running.
INT. LIVING ROOM - DAY
Shot of Ryan watching TV.
END OF MONTAGE
INT. RESTAURANT - NIGHT
College Ryan and college Penny are eating dinner.

34.
PENNY
So, why did you decide to go to
college here?
RYAN
I liked their business program. And
it was cheaper.
PENNY
What do you wanna do with a
business degree?
RYAN
I dunno. Start in a company and
work my way up. It'd be cool to be
an executive someday.
PENNY
Nice!
RYAN
Yeah. Hopefully at some point I can
make a six figure salary.
PENNY
That's pretty ambitious. How far do
you wanna go in school?
RYAN
I'll start with a bachelors and see
what happens from there.
PENNY
Why did you major in Business?
RYAN
Well, I wanted something
marketable. I really don't know
what I want to do when I get out of
college. But at least I've started
somewhere. I'll figure out what I
want to do as I move up the
corporate ladder.
PENNY
How exciting!
RYAN
Do you enjoy studying to be a
personal trainer?
PENNY
Yeah. It's been really challenging,
but I love it.
35.
RYAN
What's so challenging about it? I
mean, don't you get paid to work
out all day?
PENNY
Not really. I have to have clients,
and not many people want to pay
extra for a trainer when they can
just work out by themselves. It's
kinda a paycheck to paycheck thing
at first.
RYAN
Wow, I didn't know that. Must be
stressful.
PENNY
It can be. But it's a lot of fun. I
can't see myself doing anything
else.
RYAN
That's cool.
There's an awkward pause. Ryan fidgets with his silverware,

and Penny looks around. Ryan brightens up as he thinks of
something to say.
RYAN (CONT’D)
What kind of music do you listen
to?
PENNY
I like country. You?
RYAN
I'm really into Alternative.
PENNY
Really? I've always thought that
kind of music was depressing.
RYAN
Sure, it can be, but there's a lot
of honest emotion too.
PENNY
Huh. Well, I'll have to listen to
some alternative to find out, I
guess.
36.
RYAN
I've got Deathcab in the car. We
can listen to that when I take you
home.
PENNY
OK, sounds good!
Another awkward silence. This one is a bit longer.
PENNY (CONT’D)
Have you been to any shows
recently?
RYAN
Naw. I've been too busy with
studying. You know how it is!
PENNY
Yeah.
RYAN
I've been hanging out with this guy
in one of my classes, Fred.
PENNY
Yeah?
RYAN
Yeah, we met at the beginning of
the quarter. He's a great guy.
PENNY
That's cool that you're making
friends. You haven't been here that
long!
RYAN
Yeah, well, I'm pretty outgoing.
PENNY
Sounds like it!
RYAN
So, do you meet a lot of different
types of people in your personal
training?
PENNY
Yeah, although, I do get a lot of
guys that just hit on me the whole
time. It's pretty annoying.
(MORE)
37.
PENNY (CONT'D)
But I've got some really fun
clients in my program that I enjoy
working with.
RYAN
What kind of clients are the fun
ones?
PENNY
Well, like I have this one old guy
who's trying to stay healthy by
exercising. He's got so many
stories, and he's really funny.
He's the kind of guy I want to be
married to when I get old like
that.
RYAN
Cool. So, you prefer working with
old guys?
PENNY
It really doesn't matter to me. As
long as they want to learn about
the equipment and how to safely get
in shape, I like working with them.
RYAN
That's way cool. Sounds like a
great job!
PENNY
Thanks, it is!
Pause as Ryan and Penny notice that they are done with their
meal.
RYAN
So, you wanna get some dessert?
Their sundaes are pretty amazing.
PENNY
No, I'm way too full! Maybe next
time!
RYAN
A'ight. I guess we should get the
check.
Ryan reaches in his pocket for his wallet and flags down a
waiter.
38.
INT. BAR - NIGHT
20's Ryan is sitting at a bar, alone, nursing a beer. A man

in his 30's, Jack, comes up to the bar next to him. Ryan
glances over quickly, then straight ahead.
JACK
Waiting for a date?
Ryan doesn't respond. Jack taps him on the shoulder.
JACK (CONT’D)
I said, you waiting for a date?
RYAN
No. Just having a beer.
JACK
Oh. By yourself?
RYAN
Yeah.
JACK
Oh.
RYAN
You waiting for a date?
JACK
Naw. I'm married.
Shows Ryan his hand with a ring.
JACK (CONT’D)
Just getting a beer. I'm with those
people over there.
Points behind him to a table.
JACK (CONT’D)
So, why are you having a beer by
yourself when you could be hitting
on all the pretty ladies around
here?
RYAN
I'm not like that.
JACK
Oh, I see.
39.
RYAN
No, that's not what I meant! Shit,
I'm not gay.
Jack guffaws really loud.
JACK
My name's Jack.
Jack puts out his hand for Ryan to shake it. Ryan hesitantly
shakes it.
RYAN
Ryan.
JACK
Nice to meet you. You come here
often?
Jack smiles mischievously and laughs a little.
RYAN
(Sarcastically)
Very funny.
JACK
Now you're getting it! Man, lighten
up! How many beers have you had,
anyway?
RYAN
Only this one. I just got here.
JACK
Well, we'll have to order you a few
more to loosen you a bit.
RYAN
Oh, I wasn't going to stay long.
JACK
Why not? We're just getting
started! My friends can wait.
RYAN
Yeah?
JACK
Sure! Why not? Why, you got a hot
date?
RYAN
No.
40.
JACK
Well, no wonder! What was her name,
anyway?
RYAN
Who's name?
JACK
The one that got away! The one who
broke your heart and left you
feeling sorry for yourself all
alone in this bar!
RYAN
That's none of your business!
JACK
So, it was a girl! I musta hit a
nerve there.
RYAN
Are you usually this forward with
people you've just met?
JACK
What? You should see me after a few
beers. Speaking of . . . hey, dude
. . .
BARKEEPER
What can I getchya, Jack?
JACK
I'll start with a Manny's. And a
Fat Tire for my friend here.
RYAN
I already have a beer.
JACK
So, drink up! Your next one's
comin'.
RYAN
So, what college did you go to?
JACK
Oregon State. Why?
RYAN
A buddy of mine went there. Big
party school.
41.
JACK
Sure as hell is!
RYAN
Were you part of a frat?
JACK
Dude, I ran our frat house! I was
the SHIT in college!
RYAN
Sounds like it. Looks like you
still drink like you are in
college.
JACK
Dude, you have no idea! I've toned
WAY down!
RYAN
What do you do now?
JACK
What is this? Suddenly you become
Mr. Talkative?
RYAN
Hey, you're the one who started
talking to me.
JACK
The space was open. This place is
gonna get packed soon, just you
see. All kinds of honeys will be
all up in here.
RYAN
So, you do come here often.
JACK
And you don't. This is the first
time I've seen you here.
RYAN
Yeah.
JACK
So, what brings you here, anyway?
Can't be the girls.
RYAN
I heard the atmosphere was cool.
42.
JACK
The atmosphere, huh? Really, what's
the reason?
RYAN
I dunno. I just felt like having a
beer.
JACK
Really? Well, I can't blame you
there! So, what do YOU do?
RYAN
I'm a paper pusher for a business
downtown.
JACK
What business?
RYAN
You wouldn't have heard of them.
They're not huge or anything.
JACK
So, you frequent various bars for
fun because your job is so lame?
RYAN
Sure. Yeah, that's it.
JACK
I see.
RYAN
You never answered my question.
What do you do?
JACK
I'm a financial manager.
RYAN
Sure, I can see that. Party animal,
takes big risks, that sort of
thing.
JACK
You got that right! My motto is
live large and die young!
RYAN
Yeah, I hate my job. I wish I could
find something else.
43.
JACK
Like what?
RYAN
I haven't figured that out yet.
JACK
Well, here's to your search!
Jack raises his beer, and they toast.
JACK (CONT’D)
So, no girlfriend, huh?
RYAN
Naw.
JACK
Why not? You're young. You oughta
be having the time of your life!
You're only in your twenties once!
RYAN
Been there, done that. Not that
great.
JACK
What are you talking about? No
frat, no chasing skirts. Sounds
like you've never really lived!
RYAN
To each their own, I guess.
JACK
Uh huh. So, I bet you a beer that
you can't get a single phone number
in this place.
RYAN
Why would I want to?
JACK
Oh, I dunno. It'll make your
evening interesting. And mine.
RYAN
Why would I care how interesting
your evening is?
JACK
You almost done with that beer?
Your new one is waitin' for ya.
44.
Ryan shakes his head at Jack, but drains his beer anyway and
starts on the Fat Tire.
RYAN
There! You happy?
JACK
Not until you have a few more! Ever
done a drinking game? Of course
not! What was I thinking? We'll
have to start you off easy. Ever
done shots before?
RYAN
I'm not going to start doing shots
with you.
JACK
Alright, if you say so! How's the
beer?
RYAN
Good. I love Fat Tire.
JACK
It's a good one! You wanna keep
that for your next one, or try
something new?
RYAN
Dude, I'm out after this one.
JACK
Alright, if you say so!
Sounds of a man shouting. Ryan and Jack look over at the end
of the bar. A man, Hans, is shouting, waving a beer in his
hand, at an attractive woman, Grace, sitting at the bar.
RYAN
Dude, someone should calm that guy
down.
Hans shouts louder, leaning in menacingly toward Grace.
RYAN (CONT’D)
I should call the police.
JACK
Naw, the barkeeper will take care
of it.
45.
Ryan looks down the bar both ways. The barkeeper is busy
serving customers at the other end of the bar, and can't hear
the shouting over the din of the bar. Hans is getting louder
and makes some violent gestures at Grace. Ryan takes a drink
from his beer, gets up, and walks toward the Hans. The man is
huge, much bigger than Ryan, and is obviously drunk.
RYAN
Hey, dude, chill out, OK?
HANS
Who the fuck are you?
RYAN
Look, just leave her alone,
alright?
Hans talks to Grace.
HANS
Hey, you know this shithead?
GRACE
Just leave him alone, Hans. He's
just making sure I'm OK.
HANS
I'll do whatever the hell I want
to! Hey, punk- ass kid, get the
fuck out of here.
RYAN
Look, this isn't cool. I'm calling
the police.
Ryan fishes his cell out of his pocket. While his head is
down, Hans lays into Ryan's head with his fist.
INT. BAR - LATER
Slow fade-in of an EMT from Ryan's point of view.
EMT
He's coming to. Hey, buddy, you OK?
RYAN
What happened?
EMT
I don't know the details, but your
buddy over there called 911 when
that guy decked you.
46.
RYAN
That guy?
The EMT takes out a flashlight, turns it on, and shines it in

Ryan's eyes.
EMT
What I want you to do is follow the
light with your eyes. There, that's
good. Does that hurt?
RYAN
No.
EMT
Good. Your skull isn't broken. Do
you know who you are?
RYAN
Sure. My name's Ryan.
EMT
Do you know where you are?
RYAN
Some bar. I forget the name.
EMT
That's good enough, I guess. I'd
like to get you to the hospital as
a precaution, though. Stay right
there, and we'll get a stretcher
for you.
EMT leaves. Ryan is dazed.

RYAN
OK.
GRACE
I'm so sorry about that! Hans was
really drunk. I'm so embarrassed!
RYAN
Where is he?
GRACE
I dunno. He took off as soon as he
hit you.
RYAN
Is that guy your boyfriend?
47.
GRACE
No. Look, I want to go to the
hospital with you.
RYAN
You don't have to. I'll be all
right.
GRACE
No, I want to go. It's my fault he
attacked you.
Jack approaches the two.
JACK
Ryan, dude, you OK?
RYAN
I think so.
JACK
That was so amazing! You really
stepped up there!
RYAN
Yeah. Oh, hey, Jack, this is . . .
GRACE
Grace. Hi, nice to meet you.
Grace and Jack shake hands.
JACK
Sure, nice to meet you too. That
guy your boyfriend?
GRACE
No.
JACK
Good. That guy is an ASS-hole!
GRACE
Hey, I'm going to go with Ryan to
the hospital. I feel responsible
for what happened to him.
JACK
Hey, that's great! Ryan would love
the company!
RYAN
Yeah, Ryan would love the company.
48.
GRACE
Man, you got hit hard!
JACK
Looks like the EMTs are coming.
Hey, Ryan, I'll give you my number.
Call me when you get out and fill
me in with what happens.
Jack picks up Ryan's cell, puts his number in, and presses
send.
GRACE
I'll give you my number, too, Ryan.
RYAN
Jack, looks like you owe me a beer
after all!
Jack laughs as the EMT enters with a stretcher with another

EMT. They hoist Ryan on the stretcher and wheel him out,
Grace following.
Ryan is talking with Charles in the overstuffed chairs.
RYAN
You were right. I AM stuck in a
rut.
CHARLES
Yeah?
RYAN
Look, I'm not saying that just
because you suggested it.
CHARLES
I didn't think that you were. What
are you going to do about it?
RYAN
I dunno. Join the circus?
CHARLES
Ha ha! At least you've recognized
the problem.
RYAN
Yeah. Well, I actually HAVE thought
about it.
49.
CHARLES
Yeah?
RYAN
I want to help people.
CHARLES
I didn't know that about you.
RYAN
Yeah. There's this void in my life,
and I think it's because I'm not
doing what I'm supposed to do.
CHARLES
And how do you know what you're
supposed to do?
RYAN
I dunno. But I think this will
help.
CHARLES
Does this have anything to do with
the incident at the bar?
RYAN
Yeah. Even though I had a minor
concussion and whiplash, it felt
really good to stand up and help
someone.
CHARLES
So, what do you plan to do?
RYAN
I have no idea. I don't have any
experience, and there's not much
I've found online.
CHARLES
You’re searching, at least! Sounds
like you’ve got some motivation.
RYAN
Yeah, I do, but there's not much
out there. I'm not sure how
feasible it is, but I'm gonna try.
What do I have to lose, right?
CHARLES
That's the spirit! I'm glad you've
found a direction. Keep trying,
even if you run into failure.
50.
RYAN
Well, we'll see. Nothing's happened
yet.
Charles looks down at his watch.
CHARLES
Well, it looks like we're out of
time. See you next week?
RYAN
Sure.
Ryan and Charles shake hands, and Ryan exits while Charles
works on his notes.
EXT. RYAN’S CAR - MOMENTS LATER
Ryan walks to his car, gets in, drives off.
EXT. GRACE’S HOUSE - LATER
Ryan drives up to a house, gets out, and walks up to the

door. He rings the doorbell, waits a few moments, and the
door opens to show Grace.
GRACE
Hey, Ry.
RYAN
Hey, Gracie.
The couple embrace and kiss hello. They walk into the house.
INT. GRACE’S LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
GRACE
I've got to finish getting ready.
I'll be right back.
RYAN
Sweet.
Grace talks from the other room.
GRACE
What have you been up to today?
RYAN
I went to work, then I had a
doctor's appointment.
51.
GRACE
Really? Because of your concussion?
RYAN
Uh . . . yeah.
Grace comes into the room, finishing putting on her earrings.
GRACE
Are you OK? What did the doctor
say?
RYAN
Oh . . . uh . . . he said I was
fine. Looks like everything's going
well.
GRACE
Good! So, my hero, where are we
going tonight?
RYAN
I thought I'd let you pick tonight.
Where do you want to go?
GRACE
Oh, I dunno . . . how about The
Pink Door?
RYAN
I love that place!
GRACE
You know where it is?
RYAN
Yeah, it's in Post Alley.
GRACE
That's the one! You ready?
RYAN
Yeah, let's go!
They exit through the front door.
EXT. PORTLAND CITYSCAPE - DAY
Shot of the Portland city-scape.

52.
INT. RYAN’S PORTLAND APARTMENT - DAY
Ryan is in a run-down room typing on a laptop.
RYAN (V.O.)
I'm doing well here. I feel like I
fit in well in Portland, and the
kids love me. Work has been good.
It's so different from the office
job I had in Seattle. Instead of
sitting in front of a computer all
day, I feed kids breakfast, take
them to the park, play with them,
and try to be a good role model
when they fight. It's so hard, but
I can't see myself doing anything
else right now. Thanks for making
sure I'm doing OK. I'm not sure
what else to say, so I guess I'll
keep in touch and let you know if I
start struggling again. Your . . .
patient, Ryan.
Ryan clicks a few times, shuts the laptop. There's a knock at

the door. Ryan gets up, answers the door. Aaron Daniel is at
the door.
AARON
Are you ready?
RYAN
What up Aaron Daniel? Yeah.
EXT. PORTLAND STREET - MOMENTS LATER

AARON
So, is this the first time your
friend Jack has been to Portland?
RYAN
Naw. He's been here on business
trips before.
AARON
Is he really as off the wall as you
say he is?
RYAN
He's crazy! He'll drink both of us
under the table, for sure.
AARON
Huh.
53.
RYAN
You oughta join us for a beer, man.
AARON
No thanks. Not my gig.
RYAN
Alright! He's also a bit on the
rough side. He curses like a sailor
sometimes.
AARON
Huh, I see. You don't talk like
that around the kids, do you?
RYAN
Very funny! I have to get on them
about their language!
AARON
OK, but I've got my eye on you,
don't you forget it! So, what do
you plan to do with him while he's
here?
RYAN
Well, I want to take him to a few
pubs and bars. We'll probably hang
out in the Pearl.
They get into Aaron's car and drive off.
EXT. PORTLAND TRAIN STATION - DAY
They pull up and park. They exit and walk into the train
station.
INT. PORTLAND TRAIN STATION - MOMENTS LATER
They check the train schedule.
RYAN
He's coming in on the 2:27.
AARON
Looks like it's on time.
They see Jack lugging a suitcase from the train.
RYAN
Jack! Dude!
54.
JACK
Ryan! Hey, man!
Jack drops his luggage, and Ryan and Jack man hug.
RYAN
Jack, this is Aaron Daniel, my
boss.
JACK
Pleasure to meet ya, Aaron Daniel.
You keeping this jackass in line?
AARON
Yeah, something like that!
RYAN
So, you need help with your bags,
man?
JACK
Sure, man! This shit's heavy!
Ryan grabs the rolling suitcase, and they walk out of the
train station.
EXT. PORTLAND PUB - DAY
Ryan and Jack sit at an outdoor pub, drinking beers.
JACK
So, what do you think of Portland?
RYAN
Dude, it's different. There’re some
similarities, but it's another
place for sure.
JACK
They do say Portland is a mini
Seattle.
RYAN
I don't think so, but I guess I can
see why people say that.
JACK
Well, we miss you back in Seattle.
RYAN
Yeah, thanks man. I don't know when
I'll be back.
55.
JACK
How long is your contract for?
RYAN
Two years. I could come back then,
I guess. I could also extend my
program.
JACK
From what you told me, this isn't
like a long term thing, is it?
RYAN
Naw. I do have to figure out what
I'm gonna do in the next several
years. I've got some time.
JACK
Well, we're hoping you come back,
man!
RYAN
Thanks. I'll keep that in mind. I
do miss you guys, and I love
Seattle, so we'll see what happens!
JACK
So, not to totally make you feel
uncomfortable, why are you here?
RYAN
I wanted a change. We've talked
about that.
JACK
Yeah, but you didn't have to leave,
man. You could have done the same
type of thing in Seattle.
RYAN
Yeah, but this is the change I
wanted! It's a great experience in
a new place!
JACK
Yeah, but not a reason to leave
your friends.
RYAN
Yeah, well, I really didn't have
any strong ties to Seattle when I
left.
56.
JACK
Dude, just because Grace broke up
with you . . .
RYAN
That's not the only reason.
JACK
Yeah?
RYAN
Yeah. I lost my job . . . the
organization needed someone down
here. I didn't see why not.
INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
Ryan and Grace are talking over coffee. Grace is upset, near
tears.
RYAN
What happened?
GRACE
When I went to work this morning,
they had this big meeting with
everyone. The company had to cut
some positions.
RYAN
Yeah?
GRACE
They said anyone who wanted to quit
would get some sort of severance
package.
RYAN
Quit?
GRACE
Yeah. They said if not enough
people quit, they would have to
start "letting people go."
RYAN
What did you do?
GRACE
I didn't want to quit. I can't
quit. I've been there for five
years. They owe me!
57.
RYAN
Well, sure! You've sacrificed so
much for them!
GRACE
I thought that if I just stayed
quiet, I'd survive. But my boss
called me into his office.
RYAN
Yeah?
GRACE
The vice president was there, too.
They looked all serious. They sat
me down and told me my position was
being liquidated. What the hell
does that mean?
RYAN
So, they just turned you out? Just
like that?
GRACE
I had to clean out my desk right
then, and turn in my keycard and
everything. Ryan, I don't know what
I'm going to do! I don't see how
they can function without me!
RYAN
They can't!
GRACE
I didn't get the severance package,
either. That was for people who
chose to leave.
RYAN
Well, at least you can get
unemployment now.
Grace scowls at Ryan.
RYAN (CONT’D)
Look, it's better than nothing!
GRACE
I'm not going to collect
unemployment! I don't want to be on
welfare! Poor people are on
welfare!
58.
RYAN
No one thinks you're poor!
GRACE
How could this happen to me? I went
to college! I worked my ass off to
get where I was!
RYAN
I don't know what to say.
Pause.
GRACE
Look, hon, I've got an idea.
RYAN
Yeah?
GRACE
What if . . . I moved in with you?
RYAN
Moved in? How? Without an income,
my landlord would never . . .
GRACE
Well, I'll just move in, get a job,
and then sign the lease.
RYAN
I could get kicked out. Then we'd
both be without a place to live. It
was hard getting into my place,
remember?
GRACE
Yeah. But how am I going to pay
rent?
RYAN
What about your dad?
GRACE
My dad? I haven't talked to him in
. . .
RYAN
Three years. I know.
GRACE
He'd just laugh. He thinks all I
want is his money. The last thing I
want to do is ask him for some.
59.
RYAN
Yeah, sure.
Pause.
RYAN (CONT’D)
We'll think of something.
Ryan leans over and holds Grace's hand.
Ryan and Jack are drinking at the pub.
RYAN
She looked for a job for several
months. The job market's tough, you
know.
JACK
Hell yeah it is. It is NOT a good
time to be looking for work!
RYAN
Well, I helped her look. There
wasn't much out there, and I just
wanted to see her get SOMETHING!
JACK
Too bad she's not a trader. I could
have hooked her up.
RYAN
Yeah, I know. That kind of work
isn't for either of us, man. Sorry!
JACK
Well, now's a shitty time to get
into the biz anyway. The stock
market isn't as hot as it used to
be.
RYAN
That's what I keep hearing.
JACK
So, do you miss her? It's only been
a few months since you left . . .
60.
EXT. SEATTLE ZOO - DAY
Ryan and Grace are at the zoo. Grace is holding a stuffed

animal in one hand and holding Ryan's hand with the other.
RYAN
Look! It's the monkeys! They're
kinda funky looking!
GRACE
Is that what you look like in the
morning?
RYAN
Ha ha! No, but that's how I feel!
GRACE
So, you're not a morning person?
RYAN
No way! Mornings and I don't get
along at all!
GRACE
Me too! I hate mornings. I'm much
more of a night person.
RYAN
For sure. Wow, that's another thing
we have in common!
GRACE
We are so similar, it's kinda
scary!
RYAN
I think it's great!
Ryan leans in for a kiss- a long, juicy peck.
RYAN (CONT’D)
So, you've never been to the zoo
before?
GRACE
No. I haven't lived in Seattle for
long enough, I guess. But you've
been here?
RYAN
Yeah.
Silence.
61.
GRACE
In high school?
RYAN
Yeah. Field trips. One time I tried
to swim with the penguins.
GRACE
What!?!
RYAN
Yeah! I saw some guy go through a
gate near the penguins. He was
carrying a bucket of fish. The gate
didn't close all the way, so I
snuck in.
GRACE
So what happened? Did you get in
trouble?
RYAN
Oh yeah! But I got to pet one of
the penguins. That's when I got
caught.
GRACE
Did the guy catch you?
RYAN
Well, actually, the penguin bit me
and I yelled. Those suckers are
tough!
GRACE
No! Were you hurt?
RYAN
Yeah, I was bleeding like crazy! I
was taken to the hospital. I had to
get stitches and a tetanus shot. I
was in the newspaper for it. It was
pretty awesome.
GRACE
I'm surprised they let you back in!
RYAN
Well, I couldn't come back for a
year, and the guy who didn't shut
the gate all the way lost his job.
I felt pretty bad about it.
62.
GRACE
I can imagine! Wow, that's a crazy
story!
RYAN
I've got lots more where that came
from!
GRACE
Well, I'm glad! You're the first
guy who hasn't tried to act all
cool around me. You're yourself.
RYAN
Thanks! I've really enjoyed getting
to know you too!
The couple look at each other all dreamy eyed and go in for a
kiss. They hold it for a bit, enjoying the moment. They pull
away.
RYAN (CONT’D)
I think they're closing soon. We
should go see the giraffes before
it's too late.
GRACE
Alright. But they really freak me
out! They could reach down and bite
me!
RYAN
Don't worry, I'll protect you!
Grace giggles as Ryan puts his arm around her as they walk
off toward the giraffe exhibit.
INT. OFFICE - LATER
Grace is at a job interview with Greg, looking as

professional as she can.
GREG
So, uh . . . Grace . . . you have
administrative assistant
experience?
GRACE
Yes. I worked for five years as an
admin assistant at CoffeeWorks.
63.
GREG
Yes, I see that in your resume.
What do you think you can bring to
the company?
GRACE
I'm a fast learner, I keep a tidy
desk, I can follow directions, and
I don't mind working late.
GREG
And why did you leave your last
position?
GRACE
The company was downsizing . . .
GREG
Of course. That seems to be a trend
lately. Times are tough.
GRACE
Yes they are.
GREG
How long have you been without
work?
GRACE
About 4 months now.
GREG
No one has been hiring, have they?
GRACE
Times are tough.
GREG
Yes, they are.
Pause as Greg looks over her resume.
GREG (CONT’D)
Well, if we decide on hiring you,
there are some things you should
know. We pay salary, so no hourly
overtime. If you work overtime, you
can talk to your supervisor and
he'll give you some comp time in
return, but we expect you to work 8
to 5 with an hour lunch. There are
absolutely NO workplace
relationships.
(MORE)
64.
GREG (CONT’D)
If we find out you're dating anyone
in the office, one of you will be
let go. We can't afford any drama
to interfere with daily work. Any
questions?
GRACE
No, not right now. I've done my
research, and I'm really excited
about the possibility of working
here.
GREG
Great! Well, your qualifications
look like you would be a good fit
with us. I have a few more people
to interview, and I'll let you know
as soon as we make a decision.
GRACE
Thank you very much, Mr.
Huntington.
GREG
You can call me Greg.
It's obvious he's attracted to her. The two stand, shake

hands, and Greg leads Grace out the door.
MONTAGE
Ryan and Grace walking and holding hands.
INT. RYAN’S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Ryan and Grace cuddling and eating popcorn on a couch as they

watch a movie,
INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY
Ryan and Grace talking at a coffee shop.
Ryan and Grace running together.

65.
END OF MONTAGE
INT. RYAN’S WORK - MORNING
Ryan is walking into work. Where Carl used to sit is Grace,

with Greg explaining something to her over her shoulder in
front of a computer. Ryan is shocked, taken aback suddenly.
He regains his composure as they hear him enter and turn to
look at him.
RYAN
Oh, hi. You must be the new admin
assistant.
He reaches in to shake her hand, which she shakes after an

awkward pause.
GRACE
Hi.
GREG
Ryan, this is Grace. She's just
started, and I think she'll be a
great addition to the team.
RYAN
Yeah. Nice to meet you, Grace. I
didn't know they had filled the
position so quickly.
GREG
Well, we've got a lot of things to
go over.
RYAN
Of course you do.
Ryan just stands there in shock. Awkward pause.
GREG
Don't you have some work to do? The
big day is coming.
RYAN
Yes, the merger. I do have tons to
do. I'll get right on it.
Ryan moves on to his desk, looking back as he does so,

hitting desks, trash cans, etc. on his way. Greg looks at
Ryan with exasperation. We stay on Ryan, and can hear the
next lines faintly as Ryan hears them.
66.
GREG
Ryan is sort of a weird guy. You'll
get used to him, I hope.
GRACE
I hope so too.
Greg and Grace turn their attention back to the computer

screen as Greg starts explaining from where he left off. Ryan
looks back, a mixture of confusion, hurt, and anger on his
face. He sits down and stares at his computer.
Ryan and Jack are sitting at the pub talking.
JACK
They didn't need anyone in Seattle?
RYAN
Well, sure. Look, coming to
Portland was a good way to make a
clean break from Grace.
JACK
You never told me about the
details. How'd she end up working
at your company, anyway?
RYAN
I dunno. She slept with my boss
maybe. Who knows? In any case, work
had a no dating policy and she
didn't care about that.
JACK
Ryan, she needed a job.
RYAN
So did I! We tried to hide it, but
the longer she was there, the worse
our relationship got. I had a hard
time concentrating at work.
JACK
I can imagine. That must've sucked.
RYAN
You have no idea.
JACK
So, tell me, what happened?
67.
INT. COPY ROOM - DAY
Ryan is standing in front of a central printer, just staring

at it still in a daze. Greg comes up.
GREG
You just standing there?
RYAN
Yeah.
GREG
For no reason?
RYAN
No. I'm waiting for something to
print.
Pause.
GREG
What is it?
RYAN
A report.
GREG
A report? What report?
RYAN
On one of the shareholders buying
us out.
GREG
When did you print it?
RYAN
Uh . . . a few minutes ago.
GREG
Maybe you should go check the print
status at your computer.
RYAN
Why?
GREG
Because I don't think it's
printing.
RYAN
Sure, I could do that.
68.
Ryan starts walking back to his computer, saying the next

line under his breath so that Greg won't hear it.
RYAN (CONT’D)
Why the hell are you micro-managing
me, you jackass?
GREG
Excuse me? What did you say?
Ryan whirls around, a look of panic on his face.
RYAN
I was just thinking out loud to
myself! Nothing important!
GREG
Did you just call me a jackass?
RYAN
No! Why would I do that? That's
crazy!
GREG
What DID you say then?
RYAN
Uh . . . I said I wanted to kick
some ass on this project . . .
GREG
Really?
RYAN
Yeah, really! Look, I gotta go
check my computer. Printing and
stuff . . .
Ryan rushes off to his desk, with Greg glaring angrily after
him. He sits down and holds his forehead in his hands,
staring down in frustration and stressfulness.
GRACE
Ryan?
Ryan jumps, turning quickly toward Grace and hitting the

stack of papers that Grace is holding in the process as he
startles her in return. The papers go flying all over the
place. Awkward pandemonium.
69.
RYAN
Oh, shit! I'm sorry!
He helps Grace pick up her papers. They're everywhere.
Jack and Ryan at the pub. Jack is laughing hard.
JACK
Sounds like you scared the shit out
of her!
Ryan tries to hide his own laughter at the memory.
RYAN
Dude, it's not funny!
JACK
Sure it is! It's something straight
out of the Three Stooges! Classic
Ryan shit! Hey, lighten up, man!
Like I keep tellin' ya, you've got
to learn how to laugh at yourself!
RYAN
It is pretty funny now that you
mention it. It wasn't at the time,
though.
JACK
Sure, but it is now! Was that the
day you got fired?
RYAN
No. That was just the beginning. It
got worse.
INT. RYAN’S DESK - DAY
Ryan is handing the last paper to Grace as they're crouched

on the ground.
RYAN
Sorry about that! You scared me!
GRACE
I could tell!
The two stand up at the same time, and Ryan's head bonks into
Grace's head. Both exclaim ,"Ouch" and hold their heads.
70.
RYAN
Sorry! Sorry! Sorry!
GRACE
It's OK, really! Calm down!
Ryan just stares at Grace in panic and awkwardness. Grace

smooths herself out after the collision, preening a bit.
GRACE (CONT’D)
Look, I had some files for you.
Here . . . oh, everything is a
mess! Just a minute!
Grace sits down in Ryan's chair, going through different

files, trying to organize everything.
RYAN
Look, it's OK. You can come back
later and give them to me.
GRACE
No, they're right here . . . just a
sec . . .
Pause.
RYAN
Look, what are you doing tonight?
GRACE
Hanging out with my boyfriend.
She shoots him a glance- she's using their secret code.
RYAN
Yeah? Which one?
Grace stops what she's doing and shoots lasers with her eyes
through Ryan's skull with exasperation. She says the next
line through her teeth.
GRACE
The ONLY one I have. You know who
I'm talking about.
RYAN
Yeah, sure, whatever. What time are
you hanging out with your
boyfriend?
71.
GRACE
It's none of your business, but as
soon as I get off work. We have
some things to discuss.
RYAN
I'm sure you do. Let me know how
that turns out.
Ryan stalks away. He pauses, not knowing what to do. He just

stalked away from his own desk, with Grace sitting in his
chair and staring at the back of his head.
INT. COPY ROOM - CONTINUOUS
He moves on, heading toward the printer. He stands in front

of the printer, waiting again for his job to print. Greg
walks up, files in hand looking very rushed and busy.
GREG
You fix the issue?
RYAN
Uh, yeah.
GREG
What was the problem?
RYAN
Uh . . . network activity.
GREG
I don't see anyone else waiting for
a print job. You're the only one!
Look, let's go back to your desk
and see what the problem is.
INT. RYAN’S DESK - CONTINUOUS
Greg leads Ryan back to his desk, which is now vacant. Greg
leans over Ryan's computer, clicking.
GREG
There's no print job in your queue.
RYAN
What? I swear I printed . . .
Ryan pushes Greg aside and sits down in his chair, clicking
away.
72.
RYAN (CONT’D)
Oh. I need to press OK.
Greg stands back, folding his arms, holding the files in one
hand beneath his arm pits. Pause. They fall to the ground.
GREG
Damnit!
Greg crouches down to pick up his papers.
GREG (CONT’D)
Can you give me a hand here?
RYAN
Just a sec . .
Ryan clicks away, then stoops down to help Greg. They both
stand up, a mess of files in both hands.
RYAN (CONT’D)
Here.
Ryan thrusts his mess of papers at Greg.
GREG
Hold on . . .
Greg puts the papers on Ryan's desk, trying to sort them out.
RYAN
Here, I'll just put them right
there.
Ryan puts the papers on his keyboard, the only space

available. The papers slide off onto the floor again.
GREG
Damnit Ryan!
Greg pulls it together, getting his composure back.
GREG (CONT’D)
Just go get your report at the
printer. I'll take care of this
mess.
MONTAGE
73.
INT. COPY ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ryan waits for his report to print out, of which there are
many pages.
INT. RYAN’S DESK - CONTINUOUS
Shot of Ryan and Greg talking, Greg looking angry and Ryan
looking chastised.
INT. GRACE’S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Shot of Ryan and Grace talking at Grace's home, Grace near

tears and flailing her arms about in exasperation.
EXT. SEATTLE STREET - NIGHT
Shot of Ryan leaving Grace's house, getting into his car and
driving off.
INT. BAR - NIGHT
Shot of Ryan drinking a beer alone at a bar.
EXT. RYAN’S DRIVEWAY - NIGHT
Shot of Ryan driving up to his house and getting out. Shot

stays outside. The lights go out after a few moments after
Ryan goes inside.
INT. RYAN’S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Shot of Ryan sleeping.
Shot of Ryan slowly, groggily getting out of bed. He sits on

the edge of the bed, holding his head in his hands. He braces
himself and stands up, stumbling out of his room, off screen.
EXT. RYAN’S DESK - MORNING
Shot of Ryan at work in front of his computer, clicking away.
END OF MONTAGE
74.
Ryan and Jack at the pub, Ryan signing the tab.
RYAN
That was one of the toughest times
of my life.
JACK
Sounds like it!
RYAN
It was a few weeks later when I got
fired. Grace and I were arguing at
work, and Greg said one of us had
to go. He favored Grace, so I was
out.
JACK
I remember!
RYAN
Yeah, it wasn't my finest moment,
that's for sure. But I got this
gig, so I'm pretty happy.
JACK
You seem to like it. Man, I'd hate
it! But whatever, dude, you rock
that shit I guess!
RYAN
Yeah, something like that. So, I've
got some paperwork to do, and
you've got some business, yeah?
JACK
Yeah, some jackass lost a million
dollars yesterday. I gotta clean up
his mess.
RYAN
Dang, dude, a million bucks?
JACK
Yeah, it's not uncommon in the biz,
but not a good thing to lose that
much.
RYAN
Huh. Well, have fun with that!
75.
JACK
And you have fun kickin' it with
the little squirts!
RYAN
Later!
JACK
Peace!
They man hug and go off their separate ways.
INT. GREG’S OFFICE - DAY
Ryan, Grace, and Greg are sitting in chairs. Greg is looking

unhappily at the two. Ryan looks stressed, and Grace looks
like she's in complete control.
GREG
What was that all about?
RYAN
It was nothing. I'm having a bad
day, that's all.
GREG
Ryan, you've been having a lot of
bad days lately.
Pause.
GREG (CONT’D)
Are you two in a relationship?
GRACE
We are not in a relationship.
That's against company policy.
Ryan glares at Grace for a second.
GREG
. . . because the way that you two
fight in the office sometimes, I
wonder. I've been getting
complaints from others for weeks!
RYAN
Look, whether we're in a
relationship or not, it hasn't
affected our performance.
76.
GREG
Well, it hasn't affected Grace's
performance.
RYAN
I've worked here for two years
longer than she has, and I've put
so much more effort into this
company!
GREG
Grace, you can go now.
GRACE
OK.
Grace steps out of the office. Greg picks up his phone and
dials an extension. Muffed voices are heard from the other
end.
GREG
Rich, I need you here right now . .
. . yeah . . . I'm afraid so . . .
thanks.
Addressing Ryan-
GREG (CONT’D)
We can't have this kind of
disruption happening again . . .
RYAN
I know. Look, I won't let it happen
again, I promise . . .
GREG
You're right. It won't happen
again. That's because one of you is
going.
RYAN
Going?
GREG
Yes. I'm afraid I'm going to have
to let one of you go.
RYAN
What? Who's going to decide that?
GREG
Rich is coming down now. He'll
decide.
77.
RYAN
Wait, why did you have Grace leave?
GREG
Oh, well, Rich will talk to you
first and then Grace.
RYAN
I see.
Just then Rich steps into the office. He's an older man,
dressed in a suit and tie. Obviously an executive.
GREG
Hey Rich.
RICH
Gregory. Hello, Ryan.
RYAN
Hello, Mr. Hanson.
GREG
Well, let's get right down to
business. As you know, Rich, Ryan
and Grace have struggled with
unprofessional behavior at work.
RICH
I'm aware this has been going on.
GREG
Verbal disciplinary action has been
unable to resolve the issue, and
with the merger coming up in a few
short weeks we can't afford any
distractions.
RYAN
The only time you've talked to me
about this is today!
GREG
Ryan! Please stay professional.
Rich, I've called you down here to
settle this matter once and for
all.
RICH
Well, what I've done in the past is
look at the performance reviews of
those involved and make a decision
based on that. Do you have their
last reviews?
78.
GREG
Yes. I can pull them up right now.
Greg clicks a few times and stares at the screen.
GREG (CONT’D)
It looks like Ryan had an overall
score of . . . 79% . . . and Grace
had a score of . . . 95%.
Silence cloaks the room. Both men look at Ryan.
RICH
Ryan, your performance review has
clearly shown that you should be
let go.
RYAN
But . . .
GREG
Ryan, I'd like you to pack your
desk up and be out within the hour.
I'll have HR write you a final
check today. You can turn in your
badge at the front desk when you
leave.
RYAN
But . . .
GREG
I'd rather not have you escorted
out of here, but if that's what it
takes . . .
RYAN
I don't deserve . . .
GREG
Ryan, I'm not going to ask you
again.
Ryan stares open jawed at Greg. Rich looks uncomfortable.

Ryan gets up wordlessly and leaves.
MONTAGE
Ryan is packing up his desk. Grace looks on.

79.
INT. HR OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER
Ryan is handed his final check.
INT. SECURITY STATION - MOMENTS LATER
Ryan reluctantly turns in his badge. Ryan walks out the door
with his head down.
END OF MONTAGE
INT. GRACE’S HOUSE - NIGHT
Ryan and Grace are screaming at each other.
GRACE
I couldn't lose that job Ryan! I
can't be without work again!
RYAN
Oh, and I can? What the hell am I
going to do?
GRACE
I don't know! Figure it out!
RYAN
It wasn't even a question. I was
always the one who was out! You
should have seen it! I was all
alone in that office, with those
two assholes just trying to find an
excuse to fire me!
GRACE
Ryan, you haven't exactly been the
best employee . . .
RYAN
Well, it didn't help to have you
work there! Why the hell did you
apply? You knew what could happen!
GRACE
It was the only interview I could
get! What was I supposed to do?
That headhunter agency found it for
me! I had no choice! Do you know
how hard it is to find work these
days?
80.
RYAN
Are you kidding me? So, what did
you do, fuck Greg to . . .
Grace full arm slaps Ryan across the face. Ryan is stunned.
GRACE
Get out.
RYAN
Grace . . .
GRACE
Get out!
Grace shoves Ryan toward the door. Grace keeps shoving him
until he gets to the door. Grace pulls the door open
violently, pushes Ryan out, and slams the door in his face.
EXT. GRACE’S HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
Shot of Ryan, his face inches from the door, a trickle of

blood from the corner of his mouth. Blackout for a few
seconds.
MONTAGE-IN COMPLETE SILENCE
INT. RYAN’S HOUSE - DAY
Ryan talking on the phone.
INT. OFFICE - DAY

Shot of Aaron talking on the phone.
INT. RYAN’S HOUSE - DAY
Shot of Ryan packing his stuff in boxes.
EXT. RYAN’S HOUSE - DAY
Shot of Jack helping Ryan pack boxes into a moving van.
INT. RYAN’S CAR - DAY
Ryan is driving down I5. Shot of "Welcome to Oregon" as he

crosses the I5 bridge going into Portland.
81.
END OF MONTAGE
INT. RYAN’S PORTLAND BEDROOM - DAY
Ryan is working on his laptop. Aaron comes in.
AARON
Hey, dude! You still working on
that paperwork?
RYAN
Yeah. Almost done.
AARON
Well, save it for later, man. You
need to get away from work for a
bit. You've been in this room for
hours!
RYAN
Yeah, well, I gotta get this stuff
done.
AARON
You can get it done later. I'm
hungry. Let's go.
RYAN
(Sarcastically)
I dunno. My boss might get mad.
AARON
Ha ha. Very funny. Your boss is
gonna get mad if you don’t get
outta this room, man. As said boss,
I'll buy.
RYAN
Free food? Now you're talking!
Both exit.
EXT. PORTLAND STREET - DAY
Shot follows the pair as they walk to the restaurant.
AARON
So, did you have a good time with
your buddy?
82.
RYAN
Yeah. We talked about how I ended
up working down here.
AARON
Yeah? I remember that story. Your
ex was a piece of work, huh?
RYAN
Yeah, something like that.
AARON
So, you finding any ladies down
here?
RYAN
Naw, not really.
AARON
What about Melody?
RYAN
Dude, I learned my lesson about
dating women at work.
AARON
That's too bad. I think she's sweet
on you.
RYAN
Sorry man. You aren't gonna hook us
up.
AARON
Well, I tried!
RYAN
So, where are we going?
AARON
The Ram's Head. This way.
They turn a corner, Aaron leading the way.
AARON (CONT’D)
So anyway, you gotta get back into
the game, man.
RYAN
What are you talking about?
AARON
You gotta go on some dates. You
gotta start asking the ladies out.
83.
RYAN
I will.
AARON
Yeah? Prove it. I bet you can't get
any numbers tonight.
RYAN
What, you gonna bet me a beer?
AARON
I've heard that story too! Naw, I
just think you need to get out
there again, man.
EXT. RESTAURANT - CONTINUOUS
They've reached the restaurant. Sitting down at an outside

seat, they start looking at the menus. A cute waitress comes
up to take their order.
WAITRESS
Can I start any drinks for you
guys?
AARON
Uh . . . sure . . . I'll take a
Coke.
RYAN
Do you have anything on nitro?
WAITRESS
We have the Edgefield Wheat.
RYAN
That sounds good! I'll take that.
WAITRESS
Can I see your ID?
RYAN
(Mumbles)
Sure.
Ryan fumbles for his wallet and produces his ID. Nodding in
approval, the waitress walks off.
AARON
Dude, she was totally into you! You
should ask her out, man.
84.
RYAN
What? She thought I was underage.
Why else would she card me? I
haven't been carded in a long time.
That was kinda weird.
AARON
She wanted to see how old you were!
She looks your age. You should
totally get her number, man.
RYAN
Naw. She's working. I bet she gets
hit on all the time! The last thing
she needs is another sleazy guy
harassing her.
AARON
But you're not a sleazy guy! You've
got so much going for you!
RYAN
Thanks for the pep talk, man, but
I'm gonna sit this one out.
AARON
Alright. You're loss, dude.
INT. COLLEGE COMMONS - DAY
Ryan and Fred studying. They have textbooks open and laptops
in front of them. A few moments of silence as they pour over
their homework. Ryan closes his laptop and looks at Fred.
RYAN
Hey, man, I need a break.
FRED
Uh . . . sure I guess. What did you
have in mind?
RYAN
I think we should go lifting at the
gym.
FRED
Hey, yeah! There's this really cute
girl who's there all the time!
Penelope I think.
RYAN
Oh, yeah, I know her! She goes by
Penny.
85.
FRED
You know her? How did you guys
meet?
RYAN
We had P.E. together last year. I
talked to her a few times.
FRED
That's cool. Maybe she'll be there!
RYAN
Yeah, she's really cool. I think
you'd like her. She pretty much
lives at the gym. She's getting her
certification to be a personal
trainer.
FRED
You know a lot about her. How well
do you know her?
RYAN
Oh, well, I know a lot of people.
FRED
That you do! Hey, before we go, I
got a question about this executive
management section for our
homework.
RYAN
Oh, sure, I can explain that to
you. I just finished that section.
INT. COLLEGE COMMONS - DAY
Ryan and Fred are studying. Ryan looks up from his laptop to
talk to Fred.
RYAN
So, what did you end up doing last
night?
FRED
I took Penny out to that new
Chinese place on the Ave.
RYAN
Nice! So, you asked her out, huh?
86.
FRED
Yeah! She's pretty cool. We're
going out again next week.
RYAN
Congrats man. That's awesome!
FRED
Thanks! So, are you done with the
management theories section?
RYAN
Oh, uh . . . no, I'm still stuck on
section 5.3.
FRED
I think I just got done with that,
but I'm having a problem . . .
Ryan and Aaron are just finishing their meal.
AARON
Wow. So Fred and Penny have been
dating since then?
RYAN
Yeah. They're still going strong.
AARON
Do you regret not dating Penny?
RYAN
Not at first. But after a while, I
noticed how compatible we were. I
don't like playing the "I wish"
game, but now I see how it could
have been good to be with her. I
guess I just wasn't ready back
then, and when I was ready, it was
too late.
AARON
That sucks man. Another one slips
through your fingers.
RYAN
Yeah, well at least it worked out
for her. Who knows if I would have
been right for her anyway? I'll
never know, and that's OK. I've
dealt with worse.
87.
AARON
Yeah you have! Right now for
example!
The cute waitress walks up to their table.
WAITRESS
You guys done?
Both reply yes.
WAITRESS (CONT’D)
Do you want another beer?
AARON
I don't, but we're celebrating this
guy's first month on the job. I'll
get him whatever he wants.
The waitress looks at Ryan.
WAITRESS
What job are you celebrating?
RYAN
Oh . . . uh . . . I work with kids
in a mentorship program.
WAITRESS
Oh, I love kids! That's so sweet of
you! It must be tough.
Ryan is embarrassed.
RYAN
Not really. I was in business
before. That was tough. I get to
play with kids all day and almost
get paid.
Ryan give a wry smile to Aaron.
AARON
Hey, you're not paying tonight are
ya?
RYAN
No, good point man. Anyway, I just
started and my boss Aaron here has
been really supportive.
WAITRESS
That's so cool! So, what will it
be? The same?
88.
RYAN
Sure, why not? Thanks!
The waitress picks up their empty plates, glasses, and walks

away, turning to smile seductively at Ryan. Aaron stares
after her in amazement.
AARON
Dude, she was totally into you! You
should ask her out, man.
RYAN
No man. I'm just not up to it
today.
AARON
Dude, if you don't ask her out,
I'll ask her out for you. You need
a date.
RYAN
Oh, c'mon! Don't do that, please!
What is this, high school? The last
thing I need is more dating drama.
My life is a cheesy soap opera as
it is. I'll ask someone out when
I’m ready, like I said.
AARON
Dude, I'm tellin' you, you gotta
get back into the game again.
Pause
AARON (CONT’D)
Look, here's the deal. You ask her
a question the next time she comes
over here, and I'll stop bugging
you about it.
RYAN
Like what?
AARON
I dunno. Something about her. Ask .
. . if she likes her job. Anything!
RYAN
How about, "What's your sign,
baby?"
AARON
Very funny. You know what I mean.
Act interested in her life.
89.
RYAN
You seem more interested in her
life than I do, man.
AARON
Whatever. I'm the one with the
girlfriend.
RYAN
Oh, so you want to live vicariously
through me then, is it? You can't
date her, so now the next best
thing is me dating her?
AARON
No, nothing like that! I just think
you'd be happier if you started
dating again.
RYAN
Who says I'm unhappy?
AARON
I always judge a person's happiness
by the fact that a guy has a lady
by his side. You are lady-less.
RYAN
Ha! You've heard how unhappy
relationships have made me! I think
it's time for a break.
AARON
Sounds like someone's bitter . . .
RYAN
Whatever. What do you know?
AARON
Well, I know that she’s coming with
your drink, and you need to ask her
a question . . .
RYAN
I'm not going to ask . . .
WAITRESS
Here you go.
The waitress puts Ryan's beer in front of him. She pauses for
a second and turns to go.
AARON
Excuse me.
90.
The waitress turns around.
AARON (CONT’D)
My buddy and I were having a
debate, and wondered if you could
give us your opinion on something.
WAITRESS
Sure.
AARON
It's about dating.
RYAN
Aaron! Stop!
AARON
Ryan's a little shy about it, but
I'm sure you could add some insight
for him.
WAITRESS
Sure . . .
She sounds unsure, a little confused.
AARON
You see, it's about . . . well,
it's sorta like . . . shoot, I
can't explain it very well. Ryan,
you put it really well. Why don't
you ask her?
RYAN
What the hell are you talking about
man?
AARON
You know, that hypothetical
question about when someone should
start dating again . . .
RYAN
Oh, you mean if a guy just went
through a terrible breakup about a
month ago and that he should not
date for awhile after that?
WAITRESS
It depends on how good the
relationship was.
91.
RYAN
It was really good until near the
end. Amazing.
WAITRESS
Are you worried about rebounding?
RYAN
The thing about rebounding is that
it's not fair to the person who's
not rebounding.
WAITRESS
That depends on whether the other
person cares or not.
RYAN
Who wants to be with a rebounder?
It's going to end at some point.
And horribly.
WAITRESS
Not necessarily. I've had friends
who fell in love with someone they
rebounded with.
RYAN
Sure, but those may be exceptions
to the rule. Rebounding is selfish.
Come on, do you want to be
someone's quick replacement?
WAITRESS
We've all done it. There's no
shame.
RYAN
I haven't.
WAITRESS
Sounds like YOU'RE the exception to
the rule.
Awkward pause.
WAITRESS (CONT’D)
You guys ready for your bill?
AARON
Uh, sure.
The waitress puts the bill on the table and walks away, not
looking back.
92.
AARON (CONT’D)
Dude, that was cold.
RYAN
What? That's what I think.
AARON
Well, she WAS into you. Yet another
one slips through your fingers. You
seem to have a knack for that, man.
RYAN
What can I say? It’s my gift.
Aaron signs the check and Ryan drinks his beer.
EXT. BAR - CONTINUOUS
Shot of the waitress serving tables and showing some

frustration, glancing back and glaring every now and then at
Ryan.
EXT. ZOO - DAY
High school Ryan at the zoo with a bunch of other students.

He's holding Destiny's hand as a guide is rambling off stuff
about the zoo life they are seeing. A very stressed out Mr.
Newman is trying to corral all the students and make sure no
one is sneaking off to make out or smoke a cigarette, etc.
DESTINY
Oooo! We're coming to the penguins!
I love penguins! I wish I could
have one for a pet.
RYAN
Yeah? That would be cool.
Ryan is looking around, obviously up to some mischief.
DESTINY
They look so sleek and formal in
their tuxes. I wonder what they
feel like.
Shot goes to Mr. Newman, who is completely distracted by the

antics of the other students.
MR. NEWMAN
Gina, stay with the group. I see
you and Tom trying to sneak off.
Hey, who's smoking? I can smell it!
(MORE)
93.
MR. NEWMAN (CONT'D)
Hey, please don't lick the glass!
(Etc.)
Shot goes back to Ryan and Destiny.
RYAN
Hey, you really wanna go pet the
penguins?
DESTINY
What? NO! Are you crazy?
RYAN
Uh . . . what do you think?
Flashes a mischievous smile.
RYAN (CONT’D)
I just watched a guy go into that
side gate over there. I bet we
could sneak in that way. He had a
bucket of fish with him.
DESTINY
Well, I'm not going. We could get
into serious trouble!
RYAN
Oh, come on! It will make a great
story we can tell our kids someday.
DESTINY
Right, our kids. No. We're not
going.
RYAN
But don't you want a crazy story
you can tell people? Come on, it's
not every day you get to pet a
penguin!
DESTINY
Yeah, well, it's not every day you
get arrested for trespassing,
either!
RYAN
OK, suit yourself. At least keep a
lookout for me.
DESTINY
NO! What do you think you're doing?
You're not going in there!
94.
Ryan walks toward the penguin gate. Walking up to it, he

tries to open it. It doesn't budge. He pulls harder, but no
luck. Standing there, the gate suddenly swings open and hits
Ryan in the face.
FISH GUY
Oh! Sorry! What are you doing here?
Ryan pauses, holding his nose. He's thinking fast.
RYAN
Uh . . . well . . . uh . . . I
thought this was the bathroom?
FISH GUY
No, this is the entrance to the
penguin pen. The bathrooms are over
there.
RYAN
Thanks.
Ryan doesn't move. The fish guy looks at him suspiciously.
FISH GUY
Why don't you go back with the
others, kid?
RYAN
Uh, sure.
Ryan turns to go. The fish guy rushes off, leaving the gate
cracked open. Ryan turns around again, opens the gate and
bolts through.
EXT. ZOO - LATER
Ryan is sitting, drenched, wrapped in a blanket. Fish guy is

standing over him.
FISH GUY
What the hell were you thinking?
RYAN
I need a Band-Aid. That damn
penguin bit me!
FISH GUY
You weren't supposed to be in
there! You're in deep shit now,
kid.
95.
RYAN
It was totally worth it!
FISH GUY
Is that what you're gonna tell the
cops when they come?
RYAN
The cops? What are you talking
about? I didn't do anything
illegal!
FISH GUY
You broke into a limited access
area and interfered with the
operations of the zoo!
RYAN
How do you think I got in? You left
the gate open!
FISH GUY
Uh . . .
Fish guy looks a little worried.
FISH GUY (CONT’D)

. . . there's no way that could
have happened! No one will believe
your lies over me.
RYAN
Whatever. My girlfriend saw what
happened too! She'll back me up!
FISH GUY
You're just a couple of kids. No
one will listen to you!
RYAN
Right, and you're gonna get fired!
You'll hear from my lawyer!
FISH GUY
Shut up! You don't have a lawyer!
You're just a kid!
RYAN
Fine! Don’t believe me!
FISH GUY
You don't have a lawyer. Tell your
lies to the police, kid.
96.
RYAN
Whatever, they're not coming.
Destiny rushes over to Ryan.
RYAN (CONT’D)
Hey babe!
Ryan cranes his neck out and puckers for a kiss.
DESTINY
Eww! You're all covered in penguin
water! I'm not gonna kiss you!
FISH GUY
Excuse me, young lady, what do you
think you're doing?
RYAN
(To fish guy)
Relax, man! This is my girlfriend.
She's just coming over to make sure
I’m OK.
(To Destiny)
Didja see me pet that penguin?
DESTINY
Yeah, and we also saw you get bit
and fall in the water, too! Did you
really call out for your mommy
while you were splashing around?
RYAN
Uh . . . no . . . why? Is that what
you think you heard?
DESTINY
We've got some bets going that you
did. It was kinda hard to hear you,
but that’s what I think you said!
RYAN
Ha ha. Very funny. Fish guy here
thinks I'm gonna go to jail for
penguin torture, but I think he's
gonna get fired for not closing the
gate. Didn't you see him leave the
door open?
DESTINY
I didn't see anything, Ryan!
97.
RYAN
Oh, come on Des! You saw what
happened, didn't you?
DESTINY
Whatever! I don't want to get in
trouble! I saw nothing!
There's a slight pause.
RYAN
That was pretty killer though,
wasn't it?
DESTINY
Yeah, that was cool, Ryan. I'll
never forget today, that's for
sure!
EXT. STREET - YEARS LATER
Ryan and Aaron are walking down the street. Ryan is a bit
tipsy from the beer he just drank.
RYAN
Why were you all up in my grill
about asking that hot waitress out?
What was that all about?
AARON
All up in your grill? When did you
start talking like that?
RYAN
No, no, I'm serious! What's the
deal with all the pressure, I mean
. . .
Ryan's cell rings. Ryan stops in mid-sentence and checks to

see who's calling.
RYAN (CONT’D)
Hold on a sec, bud.
He answers the phone.
RYAN (CONT’D)
Hello? . . . Yes, this is Ryan . .
. what? . . . where? . . . um,
yeah, I can answer some questions .
. . sure, hold on . . . Aaron, I
gotta go.
98.
AARON
What happened?
RYAN
I'll tell you later. I'm sorry,
I've gotta go right now.
Ryan leaves a confused Aaron on the sidewalk as he walks

away, talking on the phone.
INT. CITY BUILDING - MOMENTS LATER
Ryan walks into the entrance of a high rise building. He goes

to the elevator and pushes the button. A ding is heard, a
door immediately opens and he steps in.
INT. OFFICE - MOMENTS LATER
Ryan walks into a room. There's police tape all over the
place and a few plainclothes cops milling about. One of the
cops confronts Ryan.
COP
Excuse me, can I help you?
RYAN
I'm looking for Detective Harrison.
A cop who's on the phone as he's staring out the window turns
around.
HARRISON
Over here.
Ryan walks toward Harrison as he finishes up his phone call.
HARRISON (CONT’D)
. . . yes . . . we're just
finishing up here . . . sure . . .
I'll give you my report in the
morning . . . uh huh . . . bye.
Harrison hangs up the phone and looks at Ryan.
HARRISON (CONT’D)
You must be Ryan. I'm Detective
Harrison.
RYAN
Hi.
They shake and Ryan looks at Harrison inquisitively.

99.
HARRISON
Thanks for coming here on such
short notice.
RYAN
Sure.
HARRISON
I called you because your number
was one of the last phone numbers
dialed on Jack's phone.
RYAN
Yes, that's what you told me when
you called me. What's going on?
What happened to Jack?
HARRISON
We're still trying to figure that
out. How well do you know Jack?
RYAN
Um . . . fairly well. We hung out a
lot when I lived in Seattle.
HARRISON
How long ago did you leave Seattle?
RYAN
About a month ago.
HARRISON
So, would you say that you know a
lot of current details in his life?
RYAN
Uh, sure . . . I guess. What do you
want to know?
HARRISON
Does Jack have any enemies? Any bad
relationships from his past, or old
coworkers that might want to get
some sort of revenge for something
they think he may have done?
RYAN
Uh . . . no . . . he's happily
married right now. I can't think of
anyone who would want to hurt him.
Is he OK?
HARRISON
Jack is a stockbroker, isn't he?
100.
RYAN
A financial manager.
HARRISON
Did he tell you about any business
dealings that may not have been
legitimate? Any clients that lost a
lot of money or something of that
nature?
RYAN
No, no clients . . . um . . . he
did mention one of his brokers lost
a lot of money for a client . . .
that's why he was in Portland this
weekend. To deal with that.
HARRISON
Good, good! Did he mention a name?
RYAN
No, I didn't ask. But he was
meeting with him this evening.
HARRISON
We haven't reviewed the security
tapes yet, but we're sure we can
get a positive ID on the suspect.
Thanks for coming down. I don't
think you have any more information
that can help us.
RYAN
What happened to Jack? Is he OK?
HARRISON
I don't know what his current
condition is. He was breathing when
the paramedics got here. He's being
kept . . .
Shot moves to Ryan's face as he's in a daze. He's not really

hearing anything. Harrison's voice fades down to nothing.
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - LATER
Ryan enters. Jack is on a bed with an IV in his arm. He's

sitting up, a bit drowsy.
JACK
Aw, shit! Ryan! What's up, man?
101.
RYAN
Uh . . . uh . . .
JACK
Aw, don't worry about me! The doc
says I'm gonna be fine! You shoulda
seen the other dumbass! You wanna
see the stitches?
RYAN
Naw, that's alright. You seem a
little out of it.
JACK
Yeah, I had to have emergency
surgery. I'm still coming out of
the meds a bit, and they gave me a
morphine drip. I feel real fuckin'
funny right now, man. It's a trip!
RYAN
I’m glad you’re OK.
JACK
Thanks! How did you know I was
here?
RYAN
This detective, Harrison, called me
and asked me a few questions. My
phone number was one of the last
ones you called, so he thought I
might know something.
JACK
Yeah, I had some cops ask me a few
things right before you came. They
said I could talk about what
happened. The guy's fucked. It's a
pretty open/shut case.
RYAN
Well, that's good . . . I guess.
So, what happened anyway?
EXT. PORTLAND STREET - EARLIER
Jack is walking down a Portland street.
JACK (V.O.)
Well, after we had lunch, I headed
over to the office.
102.
INT. OFFICE - CONTINUOUS
JACK (V.O.)
I had to go over all of the
transactions this guy had fucked.
Shot of Jack sitting at a desk with mounds of paperwork

everywhere, leafing through it all and clicking away on a
computer.
JACK (V.O.)
I was making notes of everything,
making sure it was all legit. This
guy might have been embezzling
money, or he may have lost it by
some dumbass mistake.
Shot of Jack, looking tired, when a man enters the room.
JACK (V.O.)
I was there for a couple of hours,
really pouring all over a ton of
shit when the dude in question
walked in.
Scene of Jack and Murder Mystery Man talking, but the

voiceover of Jack provides the dialogue.
JACK (V.O.)
I said, "Hey, man. Just double
checking your work. He said, "Yeah?
What did you find?" I said,
"Nothin' yet, dude. Am I gonna find
somethin' bad?" He said, "No, why?"
He looked real nervous, kinda
twitchy and his eyes were all
shifty. He kept touching his side,
as if checking to see if something
was there. I turned my eyes away to
look at my notes and before I knew
it everything went black.
Complete blackout.
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - CONTINUOUS
The dialogue continues.
JACK
I woke up a few minutes later, and
my stomach hurt like a bee-otch!
(MORE)
103.
JACK (CONT'D)
I looked down and my shirt was
covered in blood, and it was
pooling up all around me! I was
scared shitless! I called 911 and
passed out again. It was pretty
fuckin' hardcore! Ended up he hit
me on the head, probably with the
knife he used to stab me three
times in the stomach. That dumbass!
He didn't hit anything vital, but
I've got a few staples in my
stomach. I lost a lot of blood, but
I'll be a'ight.
RYAN
Have they caught the guy yet?
JACK
Not yet. The guy's on the run. He
won't get far though. They know
exactly who he is.
RYAN
That's good, I guess. Wow, man,
that's a crazy story.
JACK
Yeah, it's somethin' to tell the
kiddos someday, eh?
RYAN
Ha! Yeah, I guess so. So, how long
do you have to stay here?
JACK
A coupla days. I can't walk, but
they said I could try tomorrow.
A voice comes over the intercom.
INTERCOM
It is now ten o'clock and visiting
hours are over. If you are not a
patient we kindly ask you to
conclude your visit. Thank you and
have a great evening.
JACK
Looks like you gotta take off,
dude.
RYAN
Yeah, sounds like it.
104.
JACK
You gonna visit me tomorrow?
RYAN
Uh . . . sure. I gotta few things
to do in the morning, but I can
swing by.
JACK
Tight! I hate this place. It's full
of sick people!
RYAN
Yeah, hospitals are like that.
JACK
Very funny! Now get your ass out of
here! Visiting hours are over!
Ryan leaves the room.
MONTAGE
INT. RYAN’S BEDROOM - YEARS EARLIER
Shot of a clock face that says 6:29. Time switches to 6:30,

and the camera zooms out as high school Ryan jumps out of bed
with energy. Slapping the alarm clock off, he stretches and
looks excited. He walks with energy out of the room.
INT. HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Shot of hallway. We see the light turn on in the bathroom,

and the door shuts.
INT. RYAN’S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Close- up of alarm. Time says 6:45.
INT. HALLWAY - LATER
Shot of hallway again. Ryan walks out in a towel with his

clothes bunched up in his hands, walks to his room.
Shot of Ryan, fully dressed and eating breakfast in a

brightly lit room, reading a textbook.
105.
INT. BATHROOM - LATER
Shot of him brushing his teeth.
EXT. DRIVEWAY - LATER
Shot of him getting into his car and driving away.
EXT. VARIOUS STREETS - CONTINUOUS
Series of shots of him driving down the street, getting to

school.
EXT. HIGH SCHOOL - LATER
Establishing shot of a high school.
END OF MONTAGE
INT. DINER - AFTERNOON
Ryan and his best friend Jake are eating lunch at a local
diner, talking between bites.
RYAN
Dude, first day of school and I've
already met the girl of my dreams!
JAKE
Yeah? Who is it?
RYAN
Destiny.
JAKE
Destiny? Didn't she go to school
with us last year?
RYAN
Yeah! For gym we're doing
racquetball, and I got paired up
with her. She's the most amazing
girl ever! She's beautiful, smart,
funny- everything!
JAKE
Nice. I hope you don't make a fool
of yourself with this one.
106.
RYAN
Dude, what do you mean "this one"?
JAKE
Ryan, look, you're not exactly
known for sticking with one girl .
. . I don't know anyone with the
balls you have to talk to girls.
Last year, when we were all either
afraid to talk to girls or still
believed in cooties, you . . .
RYAN
. . . look, I know, I know. I had
girlfriends. But this is high
school. We're way more mature now.
I'm not gonna ask out every pretty
girl in school anymore. That's so
junior high, man. And anyway, this
girl's amazing.
JAKE
You are girl crazy, though. Another
one will come along. You'll see.
RYAN
No. No way, man, not this time. I'm
sticking with this one.
JAKE
I'll believe it when it happens.
So, you gonna ask her out?
RYAN
I'm way ahead of you! I got her
number, and we have a date tonight.
JAKE
Tonight!?! What? You have a date
tonight? How the hell do you do it?
RYAN
What can I say? I got the magic!
JAKE
I'll say! Wow, dude. Don't screw
this one up!
RYAN
For the love, man, stop saying
that!
Jake yawns, taking a bite of his sandwich.

107.
RYAN (CONT’D)
You tired man?
JAKE
Yeah. I stayed up all night playing
Zelda.
RYAN
Dude, the last night of summer
vacation and you play video games?
No wonder you don't have a
girlfriend!
JAKE
Shut up! How come you're so
chipper, besides the fact you have
a new girlfriend?
RYAN
She's not my girlfriend yet! I
dunno, life is just good! Even
before I met Destiny, I was in a
great mood. I'm living life, man!
JAKE
You're living la vida loca!
RYAN
I'll have to if you keep playing
video games all night. You're
living la vida lame-o.
JAKE
(Sarcastically)
Ha. Ha.
RYAN
So, you meet anyone today?
JAKE
I'm not like you. Girls aren't my
life.
Ryan checks his watch.
RYAN
Oh, crap, dude, we gotta hurry.
Class starts in like 5 minutes!
Both cram their sandwiches in their mouth.

108.
EXT. HIGH SCHOOL - MOMENTS LATER
Walking quickly, they cross the street to school. Ryan and

Jake reach the school, and have to go to their separate
classes.
JAKE
See you at practice!
RYAN
For sure. Later, dude! Have fun in
Algebra!
JAKE
Have fun in English!
They do their best friend handshake and go their separate

ways.
MONTAGE
INT. ENGLISH CLASS - LATER
Ryan is sitting in English, trying to pay attention. He's

near the back and slumped in his chair, obviously bored.
Shots go back and forth between the teacher talking and Ryan
in his seat. The bell rings, and Ryan jumps up, grabbing his
stuff and rushes out the door.
EXT. HIGH SCHOOL TRACK - LATER
Shot of Ryan and Jake stretching with other teammates in

running clothes on the track.
EXT. STREET - LATER
Shot of Ryan and Jake running down the street together.
END OF MONTAGE
EXT. STREET - LATER
Shot of Ryan and Jake driving home.
JAKE
Dude, that run was killer today!
109.
RYAN
I was feeling those hills for sure,
man. I can't believe our first meet
is this weekend! I'm definitely not
ready.
JAKE
You always say that! You'll rock
that 5K like always.
RYAN
Just as long as you eat my dust!
JAKE
Very funny! Who beat who today?
RYAN
Aw, that was just practice. I turn
on the magic when it's race time.
JAKE
Yeah, whatever you say, man.
Silence. Ryan keeps his eyes on the road and Jake looks
around.
JAKE (CONT’D)
So, big date tonight, huh?
RYAN
Oh yeah! Dude, thanks for reminding
me! I gotta go home and work the
magic. It's gonna be killer!
JAKE
There's the magic again. You really
think you got the magic?
RYAN
I AM the magic! Nothing can stop
me, man! The world is my oyster,
know what I'm sayin'?
JAKE
You're somethin' else, dude.
RYAN
What do you mean?
JAKE
Your die- hard optimism is a bit
much.
110.
RYAN
A bit much?
JAKE
Yeah. It kinda gets annoying
sometimes.
RYAN
Well, look who's being a Debbie
downer! Don't be a mood killer,
man. Life is amazing! You just
gotta grab it by the horns, you
know? Show it who's boss.
JAKE
Yeah, I guess. But not everyone
shares your outlook on life. Not
everyone thinks life is amazing.
RYAN
Don't you?
JAKE
Well, yeah, I think life is good.
But I'm not on a 24/7 high, either.
RYAN
Look, man, we've been best friends
since 5th grade. You can't tell me
life hasn't been good. Think of all
the crazy stuff we've done!
JAKE
Yeah, we have had some good times.
RYAN
For sure! And after high school, it
only gets better.
JAKE
Yeah?
RYAN
College, dude. College is gonna
rock! We're gonna be on our own,
we're gonna do what we want when we
want. The girls go crazy in
college, man! Just you wait.
JAKE
I thought you just met the one.
Thought Destiny was your one and
only!
111.
RYAN
I never said that! Don't take my
words out of context, dude!
JAKE
Whatever you say! Like I said,
there will be others.
EXT. FRONT DOOR - EVENING
Ryan, collared shirt on, rose in hand stands waiting. He

brims with confidence. He rings a doorbell. Silence. He waits
for about 10 seconds. He rings the doorbell again, just as
the door opens. Destiny's dad answers the door with a stern
face on.
HENRY
Hello?
RYAN
Oh, hey! I didn't think anyone was
coming.
HENRY
Can I help you?
RYAN
Oh, yeah, right! I'm Ryan.
HENRY
Well, nice to meet you Ryan! What
are you doing ringing my doorbell
with a rose in your hand?
RYAN
Destiny didn't tell you about me?
HENRY
Are you that young punk that's
taking my little girl out tonight?
RYAN
Uh . . . uh . . .
Henry breaks out into a smile.
HENRY
Oh, I'm just joking with you! Come
on in!
RYAN
Oh . . . OK . . .
112.
Ryan walks inside.
EXT. RYAN’S CAR - LATER
Ryan and Destiny are in the car, driving down the street.
DESTINY
I'm sorry about that! My dad is
sort of a joker. What did he say to
you?
RYAN
Oh, he gave me the old "You're the
punk taking out my little girl"
routine. Nothing I haven't heard
before.
DESTINY
Oh, from all the hundreds of girls
you've dated? I don't know about
you, Ryan!
RYAN
Ha ha! No. Just the few dozen.
He flashes his "trademark" sarcastic, charming grin. Destiny

plays along.
DESTINY
Well, I guess that's not so bad . .
.
Awkward first date silence.
DESTINY (CONT’D)
So, where are you taking me?
RYAN
You'll see.
DESTINY
What? A secret? I hate secrets!
RYAN
You'll love this one!
DESTINY
Come on! Tell me! Where are we
going?
RYAN
You'll just have to find out when
we get there!
113.
Destiny crosses her arms in mock pouting, really playing it

up.
DESTINY
Oh, poo! Well, I hate surprises! I
wish you'd just tell me!
RYAN
You'll see . . .
EXT. FAMILY FUN CENTER - CONTINUOUS
Close up shot of car pulling up to a stop, the view focusing

on Ryan and Destiny through the windshield. As they step out,
Destiny starts to squeal.
DESTINY
Oh, Ryan! I love it! How did you
know?
Shot rotates around to show a Family Fun Center. Destiny runs

over and hugs Ryan.
RYAN
We can do whatever you want- go
carts, laser tag, putt putt . . .
you name it! It's all on me
tonight!
DESTINY
Oh, I'm so excited! I haven't been
here in FOREVER!
RYAN
Well, let's not waste a second!
Grabbing her hand, they walk toward the building.
INT. RYAN’S CAR - EVENING
Ryan and Destiny are driving back to her house after the
date. Destiny is gushing.
DESTINY
Wow! That was so amazing! Thanks
Ryan!
RYAN
You're welcome! I'm glad you had a
good time.
114.
DESTINY
I had a GREAT time! Did you?
RYAN
It was by far the best date I've
been on . . .
Pause as Ryan thinks of something funny to say.
RYAN (CONT’D)
. . . you know, the best
considering the thousands of girls
I've dated!
DESTINY
Stop! You said hundreds earlier!
Are you lying to me?
RYAN
Yeah, maybe a little
Ryan flashes his trademark grin again. Destiny giggles. She

looks her watch.
DESTINY
Oh no!
RYAN
What?
DESTINY
It's after 11!
RYAN
Yeah, the night is still young!
DESTINY
No, you don't understand! My dad's
gonna kill me! My curfew is 9 on a
school night!
RYAN
Well, we'll say we got stuck in
traffic.
DESTINY
A two hour traffic jam at 9 O'Clock
at night? Right!
RYAN
I'm sorry! I had no idea!
115.
DESTINY
I was having such a good time with
you, I lost track of time! I should
have told you!
RYAN
Aw, no worries! I'll explain
everything to your dad and it'll
all work out. I promise.
DESTINY
Oh, you don't know my dad . . .
RYAN
He seemed nice enough. I mean,
there was that joke about me taking
you out, but it seems like he's got
a great sense of humor.
DESTINY
He wasn't completely joking . . .
RYAN
Sure. I bet he'll understand. It's
not like I'm bringing you home at 2
AM, anyway!
DESTINY
Yeah . . .
MONTAGE
EXT. FRONT DOOR - LATER

Shot of Ryan explaining to Henry, gesturing with his arms,
etc. Henry does not look happy.
EXT. RYAN’S CAR - LATER
Ryan is driving home, a look of frustration on his face. His

look of frustration melts into a smile.
EXT. RYAN’S CAR - EARLIER
Ryan and Destiny in the car.
EXT. RYAN’S CAR - CONTINUOUS
Ryan is smiling.
116.
END OF MONTAGE
EXT. STREET - MORNING
Ryan and Jake are walking to school.
JAKE
Dude, I rocked Super Mario Bro's
last night! I stayed up until 2 AM
and kicked Bowser's ass!
RYAN
Nice! You had a later night than
me, man!
JAKE
Oh yeah! Your hot date! How was it?
RYAN
It was KILLER!
JAKE
Yeah? What'd you guys do? Make out
for three hours?
RYAN
No! Nothing like that! We went to
the Family Fun Center!
JAKE
Really? How did you afford that?
RYAN
Allowance . . . and I borrowed some
money from my parents.
JAKE
You need to get a job, dude. I
dunno anyone who gets allowance any
more.
RYAN
Hey, I mowed the lawn for that
money! I earned a lot of that!
JAKE
So, you guys had a good time?
RYAN
Oh yeah! It was amazing! I got her
home a little late, though.
117.
JAKE
Yeah, how late?
RYAN
She had to be home by 9, but she
got home a little after 11.
JAKE
Wow, dude! Over 2 hours late!
RYAN
It's not that bad! I tried to
explain things to her dad, but he
wasn't real happy about it.
JAKE
Sure. I can understand that. But
she had a good time?
RYAN
She had a GREAT time! It was the
best date I've ever been on.
JAKE
In ALL the dates you've been on in
your life?
RYAN
OK, so I haven't been on a ton of
dates, but this one will go down in
history, I'm tellin' ya!
JAKE
Sure it will!
RYAN
Aw, you're just jealous. I went out
with a hot chick last night, and
you were playing video games!
JAKE
At least I scored!
RYAN
Dude, winning a Nintendo game is
not scoring. In fact, it will keep
you from scoring.
JAKE
Yeah, you're right. I need to get
one.
RYAN
What, a life?
118.
Ryan and Jake mock fight, playing around as best friends do.
INT. DINER - AFTERNOON
Ryan and Destiny are sharing a milkshake. Ryan is talking

energetically.
RYAN
. . . and in the meantime, Jake ran
around and . . .
DESTINY/RYAN
(Both in unison.)
. . . kicked his ass!
Both laugh out loud.
RYAN
It was the funniest thing I've ever
seen! Even the dude couldn't help
but laugh, it was so hilarious!
DESTINY
That Jake is a funny guy!
RYAN
He sure is! He's the bestest best
friend I've ever had!
DESTINY
Sounds like it!
Both pause and take sips from their respective straws.
DESTINY (CONT’D)
So, what are you doing after school
tomorrow?
RYAN
Jake and I are going for a run.
Why? You wanna come?
DESTINY
Sure! I'd love to!
RYAN
Don't worry, we'll slow down for
you!
DESTINY
Hey! Very funny! I can keep up with
you just fine, thank you very much!
119.
RYAN
Oh, I dunno, when Jake and I get in
the zone, we're like machines.
DESTINY
Sure you are! Well oiled, I bet!
RYAN
You know it!
Both stare at each other the way that two teenagers do when
they are smitten by each other.
RYAN (CONT’D)
You know what today is?
DESTINY
Is it . . .
RYAN
Yeah, our six monthaversary!
DESTINY
Six months! Wow, it seems like
yesterday we started dating!
RYAN
Yeah, time has really flown! It's
been great! I can't imagine being
with anyone else!
DESTINY
Yeah, it feels like I've known you
for so much longer! It's crazy!
RYAN
(Sarcastically)
Yeah, it feels like we've known
each other our whole lives!
DESTINY
(Giggles)
Stop! Very funny!
They hold hands across the table. Ryan leans in first, and
then Destiny follows and they briefly kiss.
RYAN
I'm so glad you're in my life!
DESTINY
Me too!
Awkward pause.
120.
DESTINY (CONT’D)
I just wish my parents thought the
same thing about us.
RYAN
Yeah? What does it matter what they
think?
DESTINY
It's important to me what they
think! I love my parents!
RYAN
Sure, I understand that. I just
don't know what I can do. I've done
my best to show your parents that
I'm responsible.
DESTINY
I know! But my dad still remembers
our first date.
RYAN
Yeah, my bad. But we've never been
late again!
DESTINY
I know. But that doesn't matter to
him.
RYAN
It'll all work out someday. You'll
see. Hey, guess what?
DESTINY
What?
RYAN
I have a surprise for you. For our
6 month.
DESTINY
Ooo! A surprise! I hate surprises!
RYAN
You'll love this one.
DESTINY
When to do I get it?
RYAN
As soon as we get done with this
shake. We have to drive there.
121.
DESTINY
Really? Now I'm intrigued!
RYAN
Good! You're gonna love it.
EXT. HILL - EVENING
Close up of Ryan's hands over Destiny's eyes.
RYAN
Tada!
Ryan takes his hands away. They are standing on a hilltop.

Destiny is looking at the sunset. Ryan is looking at Destiny.
DESTINY
Oh, Ryan! This is so sweet! Wow,
what an amazing sunset!
Ryan takes her hand, while both are staring at the sunset.
RYAN
I always think of you when I see a
sunset.
DESTINY
Really?
RYAN
Yeah. You are more beautiful than
any I've ever seen.
DESTINY
Stop being mushy!
RYAN
I'm serious! You're my favorite
person in the world!
DESTINY
Well, thank you! You are the
sweetest!
RYAN
No, look, you don't understand.
You're the one for me. I love you.
This makes Destiny blush, and she suddenly becomes very shy.
DESTINY
Ryan . . . I'm crazy about you too.
122.
Ryan wraps Destiny in a warm hug, and they both stare at the
sunset, lost in the moment.
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - YEARS LATER
Shot of Ryan going back to the hospital, walking into Jack's

room.
RYAN
Hey, Jack! How you feelin'?
JACK
Other than the multiple fuckin’
knife wounds in my stomach, a'ight.
Last night was the worst night of
my life. I couldn't sleep worth a
damn!
RYAN
That sucks! Anything I can do for
you?
JACK
Dude, I could use a beer.
RYAN
I don't think they'd let me. Sorry!
JACK
No worries. We'll have a pint when
I get out of this shit hole.
RYAN
You know, I think those meds their
giving you make you curse even
more!
JACK
No shit? That's real funny, man! As
soon as I get out of here, I'm
gonna kick your ass . . .
Jack coughs, grabbing his stomach.
JACK (CONT’D)
They said I had some complications,
but the doc thinks I'll be OK. I
just hope it doesn't mean I'll stay
here longer. That would be no
bueno, dude.
RYAN
Yeah, man, you should take it easy.
123.
JACK
I fuckin' hate hospitals.
RYAN
Yeah, I'm just glad I'm not where
you're at, that's for sure.
JACK
Well, I'd rather think of something
else. How are you doin'? We really
haven't had a chance to talk about
real shit for awhile. I was kinda
in a hurry the other day . . .
RYAN
Hey, no worries, man.
JACK
So, how you doin'? You get any
ladies down here yet?
RYAN
Naw.
JACK
Still sore about the whole Grace
thing?
RYAN
Dude, you have no idea!
JACK
Well, I'm sure you'll get over it
after some time has passed.
RYAN
Yeah, I guess.
Pause.
RYAN (CONT’D)
There's this girl at work. Melody.
JACK
(Perks up)
Yeah?
Jack coughs hard. Some beeping is heard.
JACK (CONT’D)
Shit, I feel like . . . shit!
Jack coughs some more. Ryan look uneasy.

124.
RYAN
You OK? Should I call the nurse?
Jack holds up his hand, tries to control his coughing. He

gasps the next line.
JACK
Naw, dude. They got me hooked up to
all kinds of crazy shit. They know
what's going on with me better than
I do!
RYAN
If you say so.
Ryan is not comforted.
JACK
So, go on. This Melody girl, she
cool?
RYAN
Yeah, she's pretty cool.
JACK
You gonna ask her out?
RYAN
I dunno . . . I mean, when I was
younger, I wouldn't have hesitated.
Now . . .
JACK
Life grabbed you by the balls and
twisted?
RYAN
Something like that.
JACK
Dude, life is fucking hard. I'm
sure you're aware of that by now!
And you know, as you get older, it
gets harder. I mean, look at me! I
got stabbed in the fuckin' stomach!
I coulda died!
Jack has another coughing fit.
RYAN
Yeah, very funny. I doubt that will
happen to me, though.
125.
JACK
See, you got it easier than me
already! Ryan, look, my point is,
life is an all out bare-fisted
brawl. You gotta learn how to deal,
whatever that is for you.
RYAN
Yeah, what do you do to deal?
JACK
Oh, you know, whatever I can. I try
to have a good time. I don't sweat
the small stuff. Shit like that.
Look, it's not what I do, it's what
you gotta do to deal.
RYAN
Look, I understand all that, but
you don't know what I've been
through.
JACK
Getting fired and dumped all in the
same day? Yeah, I know.
RYAN
That? That was nothing.
JACK
Yeah? What else have you gone
through?
EXT. RUNNING PATH - YEARS EARLIER

Shot of Ryan running with Destiny. They slow down to a stop
and walk. They share smiling glances, breathing hard after
running hard.
RYAN
Good run.
DESTINY
Yeah, that was great!
Both walk in silence for a bit.
RYAN
I wish Jake woulda ran with us. I
wonder where he is.
126.
DESTINY
He said he wanted to run by
himself.
RYAN
Yeah? When did you talk to him?
DESTINY
Uh, earlier today.
RYAN
Oh. I haven't seen him since
yesterday.
Both walk in silence for a bit.
RYAN (CONT’D)
You ready for the SAT's?
DESTINY
Not really. I feel like I've gotta
study some more. I just don't feel
ready.
RYAN
Wow. Have fun with that.
DESTINY
I have to do well to get into a
good college.
RYAN
Aw, just go to community college
with me. You don't need the SAT's!
DESTINY
Ryan, we've gone over this! I'm not
going to a community college!
INT. RYAN’S BEDROOM - EVENING
Shot of Ryan sleeping in his bed, over his covers in his

clothes. Shot of the clock. It's says 8:00 PM. His phone
rings. Ryan starts, rubs his eyes, and answers the phone
groggily.
RYAN
Hello? . . . Naw, just sleeping . .
. She's studying . . . The SAT's .
. . Yeah, I know, lame . . . Yeah?
What time? . . . I'll be right
over, Monica!
127.
Ryan hangs up the phone. Grabbing his coat from the floor, he
heads out the door energetically. Shot stays on the clock. It
morphs to 10 PM. Then 12 PM. Then 2 AM. Then 4 AM. Then 6 AM.
Then 8 AM. Ryan comes back in. He's exhausted. He falls onto
his bed, coat still on. The clock morphs to 12 PM. His phone
rings. He slowly opens his eyes, then winces. He slowly
answers the phone. His voice is raspy with exhaustion.
RYAN (CONT’D)
Hello? . . . Oh, hey Destiny . . .
Yeah, I was asleep . . . No, what
time is it? . . . Really? . . . Uh,
I hung out with some friends last
night . . . Around 8 this morning .
. . Yeah, we were out pretty late .
. . I know, I shouldn't have done
that . . . Well, you were studying.
How did it go? . . . Good! . . .
Oh, I dunno, a bunch of people.
Anyway, you wanna go for a run
today? . . . Oh, yeah, I forgot . .
. 2 O'Clock!?! . . . Uh, all I
wanna do is go back to sleep . . .
Yeah, I'll be there soon . . . I
just gotta shower and get dressed .
. . Yeah, I should grab something
to eat too . . . K . . . Bye, Love.
Ryan hangs up the phone, sits up, and puts his head in his
hands, rubbing his face trying to wake up. He groggily gets
out of bed and stumbles out the room.
EXT. RYAN’S CAR - DAY
Ryan is driving Destiny in his car. Ryan is really nervous,

glancing at Destiny from time to time. Destiny is not happy.
DESTINY
WHAT?
RYAN
Nothing.
DESTINY
You've been acting funny since you
picked me up. Something's up.
RYAN
Nothing! Really!
DESTINY
Well, I'll get it out of you, one
way or another!
128.
Ryan does not respond. Instead he stares ahead, as if

concentrating on the road intensely. He's avoiding talking
about his strange behavior.
DESTINY (CONT’D)
Something is definitely up!
RYAN
Where do I turn?
DESTINY
Oh, turn left . . . up here . . . I
think . . .
Ryan turns the car sharply, throwing both to one side.
DESTINY (CONT’D)
Ryan! Careful!
RYAN
Sorry.
He's not sorry. He's lost in his own world. There's stony
silence now in the car. Destiny speaks awkwardly for the rest
of the scene.
DESTINY
Turn right. It's just up the street
a bit.
Ryan parks the car abruptly, causing both to rock forward

suddenly. He hastily gets out of the car. Destiny follows,
sighing. They are parked in a suburban neighborhood.
EXT. SUBURBAN NEIGHBORHOOD - CONTINUOUS

DESTINY
Sweetie, it's this way.
RYAN
Oh.
Ryan follows Destiny toward a house.
DESTINY
Now, these are friends of the
family. I want you to be good. No
funny business.
Ryan snaps at Destiny.
RYAN
I'm not a damn kid, Destiny.
129.
DESTINY
OK! Sorry! Wow, are you touchy all
of a sudden!
They walk toward a house.
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - YEARS LATER
Ryan is sitting next to Jack’s hospital bed, the life support

system is beeping like crazy. Jack is coughing up a storm,
and Ryan doesn't know what to do. No one is around, and he
looks around nervously. He gets up and goes to the door.
RYAN
Uh . . . nurse? My friend can't
stop coughing! Nurse? Nurse!
Two nurses come rushing in.
RYAN (CONT’D)
Oh good, I'm glad you're here . . .
NURSE 1
I'm going to have to ask you to
leave the room right now.
Ryan backs out slowly, not sure what's going on. More people
rush in. Everyone is yelling.
NURSE 2
Sir, you have to leave now.
Nurse 2 pushes Ryan out and shuts the door. Yelling is heard
from outside the room. Sound fades out. Ryan looks through
the window, great concern etched on his face.
INT. CHURCH - DAYS LATER
Shot of Ryan dressed in black, staring ahead blankly. A

pastor is preaching. People are scattered around the pews,
all dressed in black. There's a very somber feeling on
everyone's faces. The pastor closes his Bible, leads a short
prayer, then looks up. Ryan gets up from his seat and heads
toward the door. He sees Grace. Hesitating, it's too late to
hide and she sees him. She walks toward him.
RYAN
Hey.
GRACE
Hey.
130.
Silence for a beat.
GRACE (CONT’D)
I heard you were there.
RYAN
Yeah.
GRACE
Wow. I can't imagine.
RYAN
Yeah.
Silence for a beat as they search for something to say.
GRACE
You doing OK?
RYAN
Yeah. You?
GRACE
I’m OK. I'm so sad about Jack.
RYAN
Yeah.
GRACE
What are you doing these days?
RYAN
I work in Portland now. I'm a
social worker.
GRACE
Cool. How long are you in town for?
RYAN
I have to go back tomorrow. I'm
staying with Fred.
Fred comes over and interrupts their awkward conversation. He

looks nervously at Grace.
FRED
Hey, Ryan!
RYAN
Hey Fred.
131.
FRED
I hate to interrupt, but they want
you to say something at the open
house, Ryan. Jack's mom wants to
talk to you about it.
RYAN
Sure. See ya later, Grace.
GRACE
Later Ryan.
Fred leads Ryan away. When they are out of earshot of Grace,
they start speaking.
RYAN
Thanks, Fred.
FRED
No problem. I thought you'd rather
not talk to her. I'm not even sure
why she's here.
RYAN
She was friends with Jack.
FRED
Yeah, but she knew you were gonna
be here. She shouldn't have come.
RYAN
Fred, she has a right to be here.
FRED
Well, I just think she shouldn't.
RYAN
OK, Fred, whatever you say.
Ryan and Fred are interrupted by a middle aged woman. This is

Jack's mom, Janice Collins. She's dressed in black. Janice
and Ryan embrace, Janice is obviously very grievous and
clutches onto Ryan for an awkward amount of time.
JANICE
Hi Ryan.
RYAN
Hi Mrs. Collins.
JANICE
I'm so glad you're here! You and
Jack were close.
132.
RYAN
We were. I'm so sorry for your
loss. Jack was a great guy.
JANICE
Thanks.
Janice wipes away some tears, sniffling a bit.
JANICE (CONT’D)
I'm glad you were able to be there
for him in Portland. You were the
last one to talk to him before . .
.
Janice trails off in tears.
JANICE (CONT’D)
I'm sorry, I'm sorry.
RYAN/FRED
It's OK . . . It's fine . . .
(etc.)
JANICE
He was my only son. I can't believe
it . . .
Janice dissolves in tears again. Ryan and Fred glance at each

other, not knowing how to comfort Jack's grieving mom.
JANICE (CONT’D)
Ryan . . . will you say something
at the open house about Jack? About
your friendship to him and what he
meant to you? I think it would be
great to hear from the man who last
talked to my son.
RYAN
Of course, Mrs. Collins. Of course.
The sound of a ringing phone pierces the scene.
INT. RYAN’S BEDROOM - YEARS EARLIER
High school Ryan is on the phone in his bedroom. He's

extremely nervous, pacing around, fidgeting with random
things in his room, switching the phone from ear to ear. The
phone rings for what seems like forever to Ryan. Finally, an
answer, but Ryan cringes. He's calling Destiny, and the shot
goes back and forth between the two as they talk.
133.
DESTINY
Hello?
RYAN
Hey Destiny.
DESTINY
Oh. Hey. What's up.
RYAN
I need to tell you something.
Awkward silence.
DESTINY
Well, what is it?
RYAN
Uh . . . um . . . uh . . .
DESTINY
What is it, honey?
RYAN
I . . . well . . . you see . . .
DESTINY
What is it? You can tell me.
RYAN
I slept with someone.
Dead silence.
DESTINY
Is this some sort of joke, Ryan?
It's not funny.
RYAN
You know Monica?
DESTINY
Yeah . . .
RYAN
Last week, when you were studying,
I went to a party at her house. Her
parents were out of town . . . we .
. . look, I didn't plan on it . . .
it just . . . happened. Damn, I'm
so sorry . . .
Silence. Destiny starts crying. Ryan doesn't know what to

say.
134.
RYAN (CONT’D)
I understand if you don't want
anything to do with me.
More silence. Destiny's crying increases.
RYAN (CONT’D)
I fucked up. Real bad. I know that.
Destiny's crying continues.
RYAN (CONT’D)
Look, I wouldn't blame you if you
broke up with me. I don't deserve
you.
Ryan decides it's best to stop talking. Destiny's crying

slows down a bit and she chokingly gets her next words out.
DESTINY
I want to work things out.
RYAN
Really?
DESTINY
Yeah. I really care about you.
RYAN
Really?
DESTINY
That Monica’s a bitch, anyway.
RYAN
I guess so.
DESTINY
Ryan, why did you go over there?
Why?
RYAN
You were studying . . . I was
bored! I wanted to spend time with
you!
DESTINY
So, it's my fault?
RYAN
No! That's not what I'm saying!
It's totally my fault. I shouldn't
have . . . you know . . .
135.
DESTINY
What? Say it.
RYAN
I shouldn't have . . . cheated on
you. I shouldn't have slept with
her. It was wrong.
DESTINY
Yes it was. But saying that doesn't
fix it.
RYAN
No, no it doesn't. This is going to
be hard. But I want to work things
out too. I love . . . I mean . . .
I care so much about you.
DESTINY
Thanks. That makes me feel a little
bit better. But Ryan, why did you
do it? Why? You really haven't
answered my question.
RYAN
I told you why! I was invited over!
One thing led to another! I made
bad choices!
DESTINY
Were you drinking?
RYAN
No! Of course not! I don't know why
I did it. I don't have an
explanation.
DESTINY
You need to think about that. I
really don't want to talk to you
until you figure something out.
RYAN
Destiny! I thought you wanted to
work things out!
DESTINY
Only if you want to be with me!
RYAN
I do! I want to be with you for the
rest of my life!
136.
DESTINY
Then why did you sleep with someone
else? You aren't making sense!
RYAN
I know! It was a one time thing, I
swear!
DESTINY
Yeah? How do I know that?
RYAN
You're gonna have to trust me.
DESTINY
Right now, I don't trust you at
all!
RYAN
Yeah, I can understand that.
DESTINY
I can't do this right now. I have
to go.
RYAN
Destiny.
DESTINY
Don't call me. I'll talk to you
when I feel like I can.
RYAN
Destiny!
DESTINY
Goodbye, Ryan.
RYAN
Destiny!!!
Destiny hangs up the phone. Ryan stares at the dead line with
anger, and then slams the phone down.
INT. JANICE’S HOME - YEARS LATER
Shot of Ryan up front at Janice's home. He looks nervous,

looking out at all the sad friends and family of Jack. He
doesn't know quite what to say.
137.
RYAN
Some of you don't really know who I
am, but I was a good friend of
Jack. I was there the day . . . the
day he . . .
Pause
RYAN (CONT’D)
I'm sorry. I've never done this
type of thing before. Jack was a
great friend. He . . . we met one
night at a bar. I was hanging out
by myself, and Jack came over and
starting talking to me as he
ordered drinks. I had never met
someone who used so many expletives
in conversation before. I was kinda
taken aback at first, but thought
that he was a really cool guy. Some
of you know the story, but I'll
tell it for the rest of you.
Anyway, as we were talking, we
overheard an argument between this
guy and his girlfriend. The guy was
HUGE and he was pretty drunk. I
thought he was going to start
beating his girlfriend, so I
stepped in and told him to stop. He
decked me . . .
Gasps are heard in the audience.
RYAN (CONT’D)
. . . and I was knocked
unconscious. Anyway, when I came
to, Jack was there. We've been
friends ever since. When I moved to
Portland for my job, I knew that
Jack was sad about that. But I
really didn't have a choice. He was
the only friend I had up here that
came and visited me. I thought that
was pretty cool, and it shows what
a great guy he was. I'll miss him,
and I'll never forget his
friendship. Anyway, I was asked by
Jack's mom to say something, and I
just wanted to share a bit about
what Jack meant to me.
Ryan sits down in an empty chair in the front. Complete

silence as someone else goes up front and starts to speak.
Shot focuses on Ryan's face, listening to the next speaker.
138.
INT. JANICE’S HOME - LATER
Shot of Ryan talking with Janice, with the din of people

talking in the background opening the scene as it fades out.
JANICE
So, what ever happened to the girl
in your story?
RYAN
Oh, we started dating.
JANICE
Oh, how romantic! Are you still
together?
RYAN
No. It didn't work out.
JANICE
Oh, I'm so sorry!
RYAN
It's OK.
JANICE
Well, anyway, thanks for saying
those things about Jack. It really
means a lot to me.
RYAN
You're welcome. I hope I said the
right things.
JANICE
You did. Jack would have been proud
to hear those things. He talked
about you often.
RYAN
Really?
JANICE
Yeah. He considered you his best
friend.
RYAN
We never really talked about it,
but he was my best friend too.
Fred comes over and interrupts, patting Ryan's back in a

sideways man hug.
139.
FRED
Hey, buddy! Good speech!
RYAN
Thanks Fred.
FRED
I wouldn't have mentioned his
tendency to curse, but everything
else was great!
RYAN
Well, it was a part of who Jack
was.
JANICE
Excuse me, I'm going to talk to
some more people about Jack. Thanks
so much for sharing, Ryan.
RYAN
You're welcome.
Janice embraces Ryan and walks away. Ryan glares at Fred.
FRED
What?
RYAN
It's nothing, dude. Janice seemed
hurt by your comment, that's all.
FRED
My comment about what?
RYAN
You criticized her son right in
front of her.
FRED
I just said I didn't think you
should have said one little thing,
man. Take it easy.
RYAN
Whatever.
Sighing, Ryan walks away.
EXT. PARK BENCH - YEARS EARLIER
Shot of high school Ryan waiting at a park bench with his

running clothes on. Jake walks up.
140.
Ryan is surprised to see him. Jake seems nervous, and

stumbles over his words from time to time.
JAKE
Hey dude.
RYAN
Hey, Jake! I didn't know you were
going to be here! I'm just waiting
for Destiny.
JAKE
I know. She sent me to tell you
that she won't be able to make it.
RYAN
What? Why not? Why did she send
you?
JAKE
I dunno. She just told me that she
wasn't going to be able to run with
you, that's all.
RYAN
Oh. Why didn't she call me?
JAKE
Well, she didn't think you were
home when she decided she couldn't
run.
RYAN
When did you talk to her? It
couldn't have been all that long
ago.
JAKE
I just got done talking with her.
RYAN
Why are you talking to my
girlfriend?
JAKE
Ryan, she's not exactly your
girlfriend anymore.
RYAN
What the hell are you talking
about?
JAKE
Ryan, you cheated on her.
141.
RYAN
That's not your fucking business!
We're working things out!
JAKE
Look, she's still thinking about
things.
RYAN
She's talking to you, isn't she?
JAKE
Look, man, I gotta go.
RYAN
Great. My best friend is taking my
girlfriend away from me. Just
fucking awesome.
JAKE
Look, it's nothing like that. I'm
not interested in her.
RYAN
Like hell you are. You've spent
more time with her than I have
lately! What the fuck is that all
about?
JAKE
She just needs someone to talk to.
RYAN
Look, if she's having issues with
me, she should talk to me! Don't
interfere in my relationship!
JAKE
Look, I'm not interfering. I just
want to help you two!
RYAN
Like hell you are! Get the fuck out
of here.
JAKE
Ryan . . .
Ryan storms off. Jake looks after Ryan is exasperation. The

sound of Ryan dialing the phone and ringing pierces the
scene.
142.
Shot of Ryan pacing his bedroom floor, phone to ear.
FEMALE VOICE
You've reached the Carver
Residence. No one is available to
take your call right now. Please
leave a message and we'll get back
to you as soon as we can.
After the beep, Ryan leaves a message.
RYAN
Hey, Destiny, it's Ryan. I'd like
to talk to you. Please give me a
call.
Ryan hangs up. He hangs his head. He puts the phone down and
paces the room, looking at the phone every few seconds. The
phone rings. Ryan dives for the phone.
RYAN (CONT’D)
Destiny?
JAKE
No, it's Jake.
RYAN
What the hell are you calling me
for?
JAKE
Look, Destiny wants you to stop
calling her.
Angry silence from Ryan.
JAKE (CONT’D)
She needs some space, man.
RYAN
I don't want anything to do with
you anymore. Do not interfere with
my relationship with Destiny again.
JAKE
Look, Ryan, you're my best friend.
I care about both of you. I want
both of you to be happy.
RYAN
Fuck you. Don't talk to me ever
again.
143.
JAKE
Ryan . . .
Ryan slams the phone down. Sitting down on the edge of his
bed, his shoulders start to shake, and he starts sobbing.
INT. COUCH - WEEKS LATER
Shot of Ryan making out with a pretty girl on his couch. The
phone rings. Ryan takes awhile to pull away from the embrace.
He answers the phone. It's Destiny, and shots go between the
two as they talk.
RYAN
Hello?
DESTINY
Ryan?
RYAN
Yeah. How's it going?
DESTINY
I called to talk. Do you have time?
RYAN
Oh! Well, not really.
DESTINY
Why? What are you doing?
RYAN
I've got . . . someone . . . over.
We're . . . watching a movie . . .
DESTINY
Yeah? What movie?
RYAN
Oh, uh . . . the Princess Bride.
DESTINY
Oh! I love that movie! I can come
over . . .
RYAN
Uh, no, I don't think that's such a
good idea.
DESTINY
Why not?
144.
RYAN
I thought you wanted to talk.
DESTINY
We could talk after the movie.
RYAN
No, I'm not really in the mood.
DESTINY
What's going on, Ryan? Do you have
a date over?
RYAN
No . . . I mean . . . sort of . . .
I mean . . .
DESTINY
You asshole!
RYAN
It's not what you think . . .
DESTINY
What is it then?
Silence
DESTINY (CONT’D)
Come on, Ryan, spit it out!
RYAN
Look, let's talk later. Now is just
not a good time.
DESTINY
Oh. OK, I guess. I'll call you
later.
RYAN
Sounds good. I'll talk to you later
Destiny.
Ryan and Destiny hang up their phones.
INT. DESTINY’S ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Shot of Destiny starting to cry.

145.
INT. COUCH - CONTINUOUS
Shot of Ryan as he goes back to the couch with the pretty

girl.
PRETTY GIRL
Who's Destiny?
RYAN
Oh, that was . . . a friend.
PRETTY GIRL
It sounded like you were trying to
hide something from her.
RYAN
What? Hide something? No, not at
all!
PRETTY GIRL
How come you didn't say I was here?
RYAN
Oh, I didn't think it was important
for her to know that.
PRETTY GIRL
Were you trying to hide the fact
that we were making out?
RYAN
What? No!
PRETTY GIRL
I don't believe you. I'm leaving.
RYAN
What? Why?
PRETTY GIRL
Goodbye, Ryan.
The pretty girl walks out the room. Ryan sits on the couch,
looking forlorn.
MONTAGE
EXT. HIGHWAY - DAY
Fade in of 20's Ryan driving back down to Portland.

146.
INT. RYAN’S PORTLAND APARTMENT - DAY
Scene of him working at his laptop.
END OF MONTAGE
EXT. PORTLAND WATERFRONT - DAY
Shot of him walking on the waterfront with Aaron.
AARON
How was the funeral?
RYAN
It was good, for a funeral I guess.
I got to speak about Jack.
AARON
That's good. You doin' OK?
RYAN
Yeah, I'm OK.
AARON
Life hasn't been exactly good for
you lately, has it?
RYAN
Well, as Jack once told me, life is
an all out bare-fisted brawl.
AARON
Ha! Sometimes it is. Just let me
know if you need some extra time
off. I don't want my best employee
to lose it on the job.
RYAN
I think I'll be alright.
AARON
Good. Cause I was gonna ask you if
you could come in on Saturday.
Sunday, too.
Aaron grins, obviously joking around.
RYAN
Ha. Fat chance, dude!
147.
AARON
Well, I'll just have to find
another top notch employee, then.
RYAN
Yes you will!
INT. BOWLING ALLEY - YEARS EARLIER
Shot of high school Ryan with his PE class. He's sitting

above, looking down at the other high schoolers in his class
bowling. In the lane in front of him is Destiny and Jake.
Destiny is getting a "hands on" lesson in bowling from Jake.
The two look very close to each other, and Ryan's eyes burn
with jealousy. He can't stop staring at the two as Jake shows
Destiny how to work on her form by standing over her and
moving her body to show her what she should learn.
INT. BOWLING ALLEY - LATER
Shot of Ryan. He's still sitting in his spot. Jake comes over
to him and sits down.
JAKE
Dude, why aren't you bowling?
RYAN
I don't feel like it.
JAKE
Dude, it's the last week of high
school. Do you really want to ruin
it?
RYAN
I'm not the one ruining it.
JAKE
Yeah? Then come have a good time
with us! Bowl the last game with
us!
RYAN
I don't think that's gonna happen.
JAKE
Dude, you're just making it worse.
RYAN
Making what worse?
148.
JAKE
Destiny. Look, she just wants
everything to be cool.
RYAN
But it's not.
JAKE
That's up for you to decide.
RYAN
No, it's not.
JAKE
Then who's decision is it?
Destiny's?
RYAN
No. You.
JAKE
Me? What do I have to do with it?
RYAN
You're the one who took her away
from me.
JAKE
I did not. Look, what happened,
happened. There's no going back and
changing things.
RYAN
You like her.
JAKE
As a friend.
RYAN
Bullshit.
JAKE
Look, Ryan, this really isn't the
time or the place for this. As I've
always told you, I'm not interested
in her. I never have been.
RYAN
Yeah, right.
JAKE
Fine. Have it your way.
149.
Jake walks down to the bowling lane. Destiny walks up to him.

They chat for a bit, Destiny looking more and more emotional
as they talk. Destiny stalks up to Ryan.
DESTINY
Ryan, why are you doing this?
RYAN
Doing what?
DESTINY
You're losing your best friend!
RYAN
I don't want to lose you!
DESTINY
I'm not talking about me. I'm
talking about Jake. He's
heartbroken over what you're doing
to him.
RYAN
And I'm heartbroken over what he's
doing to me! He's taking you away
from me!
DESTINY
He is not!
RYAN
Look, Destiny, I'm sorry about what
I did. I want to work things out. I
want to be with you for the rest of
my life.
DESTINY
Ryan, I'm going away to college.
Silence from Ryan
DESTINY (CONT’D)
I just got accepted to NYU. I'm
leaving at the end of the summer.
Ryan doesn't respond. He sits there, stunned.
DESTINY (CONT’D)
I'm sorry, but it's not going to
work out. This is high school. We
were not meant to be.
RYAN
But you're the one!
150.
DESTINY
No, I'm not. And you're going to
lose your best friend if you're not
careful.
RYAN
YOU are my best friend. Only you
matter. I won't be with him for the
rest of my life. I want to be with
you.
DESTINY
That’s not going to happen.
Destiny walks away. Ryan sits there, in shock.
INT. COLLEGE DINER - COLLEGE
College Ryan is eating at a diner with Fred, both of them

talking energetically. Jake walks in.
JAKE
Oh, hey Ryan!
RYAN
Jake! Hey! How's it going?
Awkward pause.
JAKE
How was your summer?
RYAN
It was alright. Yours?
JAKE
Great.
Another awkward pause.
RYAN
Oh, this is my friend Fred. We met
in one of my classes this quarter.
JAKE
Nice to meet you, Fred.
FRED
Hey.
They shake hands.

151.
JAKE
Is this your guys first time eating
lunch here?
RYAN
Naw, we've eaten here a bunch of
times.
JAKE
So, you guys hang out a lot then?
RYAN
Yeah, we've gotten to be pretty
good friends. We're going to the
Coldplay show tomorrow.
Jake is obviously hurt by this.
JAKE
Oh.
RYAN
I haven't seen you around on
campus. Are you going to college?
JAKE
No. College really isn't for me.
I'm working at Burger King right
now.
RYAN
Burger King, huh? That's too bad.
JAKE
Yeah, tell me about it.
Awkward silence.
JAKE (CONT’D)
Well, I'm going to go order some
lunch. I'll see you later.
RYAN
Later.
Ryan turns back to his lunch. Jake walks slowly away.
EXT. PLAYGROUND - DAY
Shot of 30's Ryan at a playground with lots of kids running

around. A 5 year old kid runs up to Ryan. This is Jack Jr.,
his son.
152.
JACK JR.
Daddy, daddy! Come push me on the
swings!
RYAN
OK, Jack Jr.! Race you there!
The two race to the swings, Ryan letting Jack Jr. beat him.
JACK JR.
I win! I win! I win!
RYAN
You did! Good job, son! You're
fast!
JACK JR.
Just like my daddy! You're the
fastest man in the world!
RYAN
Well, don't tell anyone else that!
It's a secret!
JACK JR.
OK, Daddy. Push me! Push me!
Ryan sits Jack Jr. in the seat and pushes him on the swing.
Jack Jr. yells "Higher, higher!" as Jack pushes him.
EXT. PLAYGROUND - LATER
Shot of Ryan and Jack Jr. playing a game of two person tag,
with Ryan tagging Jack Jr. and wrestling him to the ground,
tickling his hysterically laughing son.
RYAN
I got you! I got you! You're it!
Both are collapsed on the ground, breathing hard and calming

down. Jack Jr. puts his head on his father's chest. It's an
intimate moment between father and son.
RYAN (CONT’D)
Jack, I have something very
important to tell you.
JACK JR.
What is it, Daddy?
RYAN
Well, you're going to have a
brother or a sister.
153.
JACK JR.
In the mail?
RYAN
No! That's not how it's done! Mommy
has a baby growing in her tummy.
JACK JR.
In her tummy? Was I in her tummy?
RYAN
Yep! Mommy had you 5 years ago!
JACK JR.
Oh . . .
Jack Jr. is silent for a few seconds, thinking.
JACK JR. (CONT’D)

Is it a boy or a girl?
RYAN
We don't know yet. It's too early
to tell.
JACK JR.
How do you know?
RYAN
You know doctor Vance?
JACK JR.
Uh huh. He's the one who gave me
medicine when I was sick.
RYAN
Yep. He has a special TV that shows
what the baby looks like. He says
we'll be able to tell later if it's
a boy or a girl.
Ryan lifts his head.
RYAN (CONT’D)
Oh, and speaking of, there's Mommy!
Jack Jr. gets up excitedly and runs off screen.
JACK JR.
Mommy! Mommy! You're gonna have a
baby . . .
End

Nothing Is Lost

Caricato da

Informazioni sul documento

Titolo originale

Copyright

Formati disponibili

Condividi questo documento

Condividi o incorpora il documento

Opzioni di condivisione

Hai trovato utile questo documento?

Questo contenuto è inappropriato?

Copyright:

Formati disponibili

Nothing Is Lost

Caricato da

Copyright:

Formati disponibili

NOTHING IS LOST

(c) Loose Cannon Media

-Close up of alarm clock. Times changes from 6:59 to 7:00.

-Ryan in bed. No movement.

-Close up of alarm clock. The time says 7:10. Hand fumbles,

-Ryan slowly, groggily getting out of bed. He sits on the

INT. HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS

INT. RYAN’S BEDROOM - LATER

Close- up of alarm. Time says 7:30.

INT. HALLWAY - LATER

Ryan stumbles out in a towel with his clothes bunched up in

INT. BREAKFAST TABLE - LATER

INT. BATHROOM - LATER

Ryan brushes his teeth.

INT. GARAGE - LATER

EXT. SEATTLE STREETS - MOMENTS LATER

-Series of shots of him driving down the street, getting to

INT. WORK - MOMENTS LATER

Ryan walks into work. He sees Carl, and he immediately

Carl turns around in his chair to face Ryan.

INT. RYAN’S DESK - MOMENTS LATER

Ryan walks to his desk. He notices that he's got some

INT. LUNCHROOM - AFTERNOON

Ryan is eating his lunch alone. Carl walks up to him.

INT. RYAN’S DESK - LATER

Ryan is working at his desk. Up walks Greg in a business

EXT. RYAN’S WORK - NIGHT

It's dark outside.

INT. RYAN’S WORK - NIGHT

Pan of empty chairs and blank computer screens until we see

EXT. PARKING LOT - MOMENTS LATER

INT. RYAN’S CAR

EXT. SEATTLE NIGHT SKYLINE - LATER

Panning shot of city at night.

INT. GARAGE - LATER

Ryan drives into the garage.

EXT. OUTSIDE RYAN’S HOUSE - MOMENTS LATER

INT. KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER

Ryan is standing in front of the open fridge. His cell rings.

Ryan hangs up phone. Staring at the still open fridge, we

EXT. GARAGE - MOMENTS LATER

Ryan leaves the house.

INT. BAR - LATER

-Shot of Ryan surrounded by friends at the bar. He's the only

-The table is half empty.

-Ryan, Fred, and Penny are talking.

EXT. STREET - LATER

EXT. STREET - CONTINUOUS

INT. RYAN’S CAR - CONTINUOUS

Focus on the clock. It says 11:33 PM.

INT. GARAGE - LATER

Ryan drives into his garage.

INT. BATHROOM - MOMENTS LATER

Ryan is brushing his teeth, taking his contacts out.

INT. RYAN’S BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER

Ryan pulling his sweatshirt down at his bedside. Ryan climbs

INT. RYAN’S BEDROOM - LATER

The clock transitions to 1:48. Ryan is tossing and turning in

INT. RYAN’S BEDROOM - MORNING

Times changes from 6:59 to 7:00. Hand hits the snooze.

INT. RYAN’S BEDROOM - MORNING

Ryan in bed. No movement.

INT. RYAN’S BEDROOM - MORNING