IK3

EXT. CAMERA MOVES IN ACROSS THE SKYLINE OF NEW YORK CITY, (SIMILAR TO OPENING SHOT OF IKWYDLS) THROUGH THE STREETS AND BUILDINGS SETTLING ON ONE APARTMENT, MOVING IN THROUGH AN OPEN BALCONY SLIDING DOOR, CURTAINS BLOW IN THE EARLY MORNING BREEZE AS THE CAMERA MOVES INSIDE.

INT. NEW YORK APARTMENT – MORNING.

JULIE JAMES IS WRAPPED IN A TOWEL – WATER CAN BE HEARD RUNNING SOMEWHERE IN THE APARTMENT – SHE HAS A PORTABLE TELEPHONE IN ONE HAND, FRESH JUICE IN THE OTHER – SHE MOVES FROM ROOM TO ROOM AS SHE CHATS ON THE PHONE ENABLING THE CAMERA TO MOVE THROUGH THE APARTMENT WITH HER. MODERN FURNISHINGS OCCUPY THE ROOMS - PORTRAYING A CERTAIN DEGREE OF WEALTH AND SOPHISTICATION.

JULIE

Ray we’ve been through this before…so many times…I’m not gonna have this argument again with you just for the sake of it…no…I am calm…Come on give me a break hun….listen it’s an important case and I don’t need extra things to be worrying about…once it’s cracked I’ll definitely get the raise, there’s no way he can refuse it…once we have the money you can get your cute ass up here and we can start our ‘happy existence’…you want to start the business yes? Good!…I’m fine…no, no more nightmares…not for a long time your know that…hey you can worry about me once you’re here with me OK…then you’ll see how well I’m doing. What?…You are so bad….OK – a towel as usual (she giggles) You happy now Randy? (Laughing) You can see for yourself in a few days.

Julie notices the time...later than she thought.

JULIE

Shoot…gotta dash sweetie…can’t wait to see you and I’ll call you tonight OK? Thanks…Oh…don’t forget to get Karla to call me ASAP OK? Love you. Bye.

Julie hangs up the phone rushes into the bathroom – the shower has steamed the room up. She looks nervous for a second, laughs. We see the towel drop to the floor as Julie steps into the shower.

EXT. APARTMENT STEPS/NEW YORK STREET

Julie is leaving the block of apartments – it’s a quaint and small building. Julie is dressed smartly, very business-like. She moves through the streets with confidence and determination. She nods and smiles ‘hello’ to various people she passes. She is happy and comfortable here. She stops at newspaper stand.

BILLY

Morning Miss James

JULIE

Morning Billy

Billy hands her a newspaper and Julie throws change into his hand.

BILLY

The usual for you – hot off the press – wouldn’t have it any other way for my favourite lawyer

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

JULIE

Would you ever have a lawyer that wasn’t your favourite Bill?

Julie flips open the front of the paper and reads the headlines. Some focus on the ‘July 4^th’ celebrations being held in New York

‘COUNTDOWN TO INDEPENDENCE DAY IN NEW YORK CITY – 3 DAYS TO GO’

Another headline catches Julie’s eye.

‘TEENAGE DRINKING ON INCREASE’

Julie frowns and becomes intense. Background noise drowns out. Julie starts hearing distant voices.

BILLY

Hey

Julie is startled by Billy. She comes back to reality.

BILLY

You gonna come up with the goods again for us mere citizens today big shot?

JULIE

What? OH…Yeah…

Julie smiles again.

JULIE

You know me Billy. Safety’s my number 1 priority. Especially for all my New York counterparts.

Billy continues to slice open a newspaper package. Julie looks down at him.

JULIE

See you soon Billy. You watch that you’re careful with that knife now.

Julie disappears into the crowds.

EXT. NEW YORK MAGISTRATES COURT. DESERTED.

INT. CORRIDORS OF THE COURT. DESERTED ALSO. IT IS OBVIOUS SOMETHING VERY IMPORTANT IS HAPPENING IN ONE OF THE COURTS.

INT. COURT ROOM.

MAGISTRATE

…So...in this case, regardless how much it pains me in condemn New York City Council once again, there is going to have to be some action in this instance. The evidence that has been presented to me over the duration of this case has been over-whelming and the evidence from the likes of Miss Craven have deeply affected by conscience.

Shot of Heather sat in a line of witnesses. She is a tall young girl with a shy appearance. Brown hair and dark intense eyes.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

MAGISTRATE

(Continued)

Today’s society needs to move toward a more secure existence, this means increased police presence, security operations and CCTV. We’ve seen the young people, the old people, the shop-keepers and relatives of serious victims - it’s been a phenomenal presentation. The prosecution should be incredibly happy with such a landmark victory and the defence should be pleased that everyone, including themselves will benefit from the changes that are to be made.

Magistrate prepares to leave

MAGISTRATE

Congratulations – once again – to Miss James. We really must stop meeting like this. (Smiling) If you’re not careful young lady I’ll have to start calling you Ally!

Hammer on desk. Court becomes a hub of activity.

INT. COURT HOUSE CORRIDOR.

Julie is receiving congratulatory hugs and comments. Heather can be seen on the outside of this circle. She can’t get near Julie, finally gives up and exits the building. A young, smart man takes Julie by the arm and pulls her away. She sees it’s Steven, a lawyer from a rival firm.

STEVEN

May I have a word Julie?

Listen, I know we disagreed entirely about the nature of this case but I can’t deny that you pulled it off superbly. I can’t tell you how much I admired your style in there this week.

JULIE

(smiling)

Thanks Steven, my fiancé liked that!

STEVEN

Hey come on! Give me more credit than that. I wouldn’t mind talking business with you sometime.

JULIE

(Inquisitive)

What are you getting at Steven because I hear a lot of shit in my life and nowadays I like to just cut to the chase!

STEVEN

(Hushed)

I know how much they are paying you over at J&J Associates and I know how much you are really worth…

JULIE

(Cuts him off with any icy glare)

My Boss liked that!

Two suited men approach Julie and Steven. Rob and Mark.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

MARK

Is this loser hassling you Julie? Hey Stevie – too bad about our lady here thrashing your ass…AGAIN! How is life over at Bryce? Still stagnant?

STEVEN

Don’t talk to me about ass-thrashing Mark. I hear your boyfriend is up for a new role in ‘Will and Grace’.

MARK

Oh Bitchy! Did anyone get that on record because we are in a court and we could get this over with very quickly.

ROB

Hey ladies, put your claws away please, our star needs to meet her public outside.

Rob takes Julie’s arm and guides her down the corridor toward the entrance of the court.

JULIE

Why, thank you kind sir. You see, Rob knows how to treat the ladies. (To Rob) Chrissy’s a very lucky girl.

At the door cameras and reporters are waiting. Mark and Steven look on as Rob and Julie walk away.

MARK

You’ll never get her you know that don’t you. Jack will make sure of that, even if he has to use his chequebook.

STEVEN

We’ll see about that

As Steven walks away he pats Mark on the ass. Mark pauses, slightly shocked and then reacts appropriately.

EXT. COURT STEPS – SAME.

Julie moves down the steps towards the reporters. Cameras and microphones are pushed into her face. Various questions are being shouted out.

REPORTER #1

Is this a personal crusade Miss James?

REPORTER #2

How does it feel to win another case?

REPORTER #3

Are the rumours concerning Bob Dole true?

REPORTER #2

Do you feel that you manipulated Miss Craven’s weakness in order to win?

Julie waves the questions away with her arm and the hub goes quiet.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

JULIE

The most important thing now is that the council comply with what they have been told to do. We achieved what we came here for. No one has been manipulated. We should all be grateful to those who were willing to share evidence.

Heather can once again be seen at the back of the crowd.

JULIE

New York City will no longer harbour so many victim of crime. That was our aim and that’s what we achieved. Now I’d like to take this opportunity to respond to various rumours with regard to my future as an attorney…

As Julie’s face is framed on camera, this shot becomes a television screen in a living room. The camera pans out.

JULIE

(continued…)

I am remaining at J&J Associates as they’ve made me so welcome and supported me so strongly despite my age. They had faith in putting me in charge of such public and important case and I hope that I have done them proud. That’s all I’d like to say for now.

Julie is seen moving off into the crowds with Rob as more questions are shouted. A reporter comes on screen.

REPORTER

That was Julie James speaking earlier today in New York as she won her fourth case in a row, this being the most public so far…

The reporter continues as the camera moves to two champagne glasses.

INT. KARLA’S FIRST FLOOR FLAT, SOUTHPORT – MIDDAY.

Karla and Ray are seen laughing and cheering at the television as Ray pops open a bottle of champagne and pours it into the glasses. They both look happy, not really worn by their previous experiences. Karla looks much older and wiser. The flat is very homely, kitchen and living room in one area, rooms off down an entrance corridor.

RAY

Should you really be drinking during lunch hour Miss Wilson?

KARLA

I think the occasion calls for it – plus it’s only extra-curricular stuff now. No more education for the summer, it’s personal wealth and achievement, first aid and such. For those who wish to extend their mental being…and this champagne will help improve mine for sure.

RAY

(Laughing)

Living on the edge As usual Karla!

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

KARLA

The kids won’t be paying attention anyway, they don’t really have concentration at this time of year – they want to be off in the Sun but their parents have other ideas. Anyway it’s only two more weeks. They don’t give a shit about what state the teacher is in!

(She laughs)

A young girl enters the room startling Ray and Karla. It is Rebecca Ware, a high school student, just about to graduate. Long blonde hair, dressed casually – very Abercrombie.

REBECCA

Hey – I heard that! I thought you’d give me more respect than that – aren’t I your star pupil Miss Wilson?

KARLA

That’s only because you’re always here when I’m marking your work.

(To Ray)

She always makes me feel guilty for marking her down – always full of excuses this one!

Ray laughs. Rebecca moves into Kitchen area and grabs some food from the fridge.

RAY

Reminds me of someone I know.

KARLA

Anyway Missy – why the hell aren’t you at school – I know its only ‘Wealth Week’ but you know what happens if you leave premises.

REBECCA

Ah – cut me some slack – I left my locker key here.

(Rebecca spots the champagne)

When did alcohol become the staple part of a school dinner diet?

KARLA

(Scowls at Rebecca, grabbing her by the back of the neck)

She’s quick this one! Now get the hell out of here – I’ll see you in first aid class. Don’t forget fish night tonight.

Rebecca moans.

KARLA

Don’t bite the hand that feeds you girl!

You can ask the ‘gang’ if that’ll make it better. There’s plenty to go round. I’ve no doubt Jamie and Ethan will eat their fair share.

REBECCA

(Plants Karla a kiss on her cheek)

Thanks Karla, See you later.

Bye Ray.

Rebecca breezes out of the apartment, down the stairs. Karla and Ray move out onto the flat’s long balcony as they watch Rebecca get in her car and drive away up the peaceful road.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

RAY

How’s she coping nowadays?

KARLA

(Somewhat Maternal)

She’s a strong one that one – no other kid could have dealt with losing both parents in the space of a year – life’s a bitch Ray and don’t we know it!

Ray puts his arm around Karla and gives her a comforting hug.

RAY

You don’t mind having her here? It’s not awkward?

KARLA

No not at all – I enjoy having young blood in the house – plus I like the company.

(Karla turns her attention back to the television)

So how about our hot shot best friend eh?

RAY

I miss her like hell Karla. I mean I know how well she’s doing and I see her as often as I can make it to New York. I know how happy she is – the first time in so long. But it’s not healthy the way she’s cut her hometown out completely. I think she thinks she can be invisible in such a busy city with so many people.

KARLA

Hardly – she’s totally in the public eye. My God – imagine taking New York City Council to Court. Only Julie! I mean Southport’s pretty dull compared to the big city life. She couldn’t have had the success she’s had if she’d stayed here.

RAY

I know – but she could at least visit. I can’t wait to move the new business up there. It’ll be a great opportunity and we’ll be together. She’s still my one in a million.

KARLA

You better get up there ASAP – or you’ll have me to answer to!

The two of them laugh and toast to ‘Julie’. The camera pans out and the exterior of Karla’s flat becomes much more obvious.

INT. OFFICE ROOM. NEW YORK – LATER THE SAME DAY.

A group of people are sat round a large table. Julie, Mark, Jack, Heather and Gronja. Jack is an older, smaller, rounder character, head of the law firm J&J ASSOCIATES> Gronja is the law firm’s secretary.

JACK

I’d like to say a huge thank-you to Heather for playing such a vital role in this case. Without your testimony we would have been fucked. I realise how difficult it must have been for you to share your ordeal with so many people. But without people like you justice will never beat the bad guys.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

HEATHER

(Smiling shyly)

I couldn’t have gone through it without Julie’s help.

Julie squeezes Heather’s hand on the desk and smiles warmly at her

JACK

Heather, I do hope you’ll stay in touch with the firm, and I know Julie sees you as much more than a client now. Now as far as Mark and Julie’s next case – I really think it might be better if Mark go it alone.

Both Julie and Mark protest immediately. Jack raises his hand to stop the protests.

JACK

I’ve thought about it and Julie deserves a break for a while and I am well aware that Mark can handle it. I know you can. You are more than capable.

JULIE

I don’t need time off Jack

JACK

No arguments gang. Gronja would you please arrange an hour for me and Julie to meet within the next few days so we can discuss various matters. Other than that – once you’ve finished your paper work – take Heather out for some food – on the company of course and then go home and break till after July 4^th.

Shocked reactions from the group – Jack spending money!

MARK

Loosening the purse-strings there Jack!

JACK

(Ignores Mark’s comment)

If that is everything then…let’s get to it!

The group mulls around, gathers papers and chats. Mark takes Jack aside.

MARK

Do you really think it’s a good idea taking her off the next case – the public’s in love with her right now.

JACK

That’s why she needs a break.

MARK

No, you should capitalise on her success while you can – you never know when she’ll lose it or when she’ll be gone.

JACK

(Concerned)

What are you trying to say Mark? No – listen – I’ve got a proposition for her, which will prove that she’ll stick with the firm.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

The two of them leave the office

JULIE

(To Gronja)

Call me on my mobile to sort out a time with Jack?

GRONJA

No probs Julie – don’t forget you’ve got to see Rob and Chrissy later this evening.

JULIE

Thanks Gronja

(To Heather)

What would I do without her eh? She practically runs my life for me.

Julie picks up her briefcase and slips on her jacket. Heather picks up her backpack.

JULIE

Right then Heather – On Jack’s orders – let’s go eat…expensively!

The two of them laugh as they leave the office. Gronja looks on after them before closing the diary and moving out into the foyer of the firm.

EXT. KARLA’S FLAT. GROUND FLOOR PORCH - LATER SAME DAY.

Ray and Karla are walking away from the house. They stop outside a house. It’s the one that was seen at the end of ‘I Still Know’. Ray and Julie’s house.

RAY

OK – I’ll pop round tomorrow night probably – the workshop’s pretty busy at the moment but I’ll call you OK. Oh – make sure you call Julie – you know she can’t wait to see you.

KARLA

I can’t wait to see her – I love New York, the shopping...and Julie of course! In fact I can’t wait for ‘Wealth Week’ to be over. Is it wrong for a teacher to be so sick of the pupils?

RAY

I think you’re allowed – especially living with one – Rebecca the terror, and catering for three more!

KARLA

You can join us tonight too if you want – the more the merrier – IT’S FISH!

RAY

I’ve had my fair share of fish and everything related to it to last me a lifetime. But thanks for the offer – it’s a microwave meal for Ray tonight I’m afraid.

Ray walks up the path to the house.

RAY

Take care Karla – say hey to the kids for me.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

KARLA

I’ll probably say more than ‘hey’.

Karla moves away from the house and smacks bang onto Ethan and Jamie. These are Rebecca’s friends. Both good looking. Ethan appears to be much more reserved than Jamie.

Karla

Oh my God! Ethan! Jamie! You scared the shit out of me.

Ethan

Did you just say Shit Miss Wilson?!

KARLA

(Scowls)

You kids get cheekier by the day I swear.

(She links her arm through theirs)

Now – you two walk me to school or there’s no food for you tonight. I’m sure Rebecca and Kathy could eat your share.

The three of them continue to walk up the road.

KARLA

…anyway why the hell are you two out of school?

They continue chatting as they move up the road. The camera pans out to reveal more of Southport’s tree-lined streets in the summer sun.

INT. RESTAURANT. NEW YORK. EARLY EVENING.

Heather and Julie are sat in a busy restaurant. They have finished their meal and are now chatting. A waitress comes and collects the plates and clears the table.

JULIE

Are you sure you wouldn’t like a dessert? We really should make the most of the fact that Jack is spending some money for a change. He’s a bit of a scrooge but he’s a big softie really.

HEATHER

Well, looks like you have managed to melt his heart – money, time off and I bet he gives you a raise.

JULIE

Whoah! One step at a time I think. You ever consider going into law Heather?

HEATHER

Well, not after the experience of this case no. Too much like hard work and having to face ghosts of the past all the time.

JULIE

What do you mean?

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

HEATHER

I mean, I know how important it is to increase security and safety in this city and I am glad that my experience managed to help achieve that. But when you’re the victim and you have to re-live it over and over to so many different people, it’s not easy.

Julie grows intense.

JULIE

You do know how much it was appreciated…

HEATHER

I know…but…to have a man stalk you and attack you is like nothing on earth. It’s difficult enough dealing with it once rather than more than…well…more than once!

Julie has gone subdued, quiet and distant.

HEATHER

(Continued)

To experience that and then have to work in a job where you see people who have been through similar things – no way – not for all the money in the world!

(Brighter)

But in this case a lot of good has come from it.

Julie is off in another world.

HEATHER

Julie? Julie?

You know you should really think about how much money you could get out of Jack now you’re on the way to becoming New York’s number 1 lawyer.

(Heather laughs)

I’d really like to break into acting or something after high school finishes. I mean I gotta start thinking about what I want to major in at college. My old boyfriend used to boast about how good college was and now it’s gonna be my turn to experience it first hand. Yeah…drama perhaps I mean there’s no better place to have a stab at showbiz than in New York eh?

Julie is now very distant. Heather’s last comment sets her memory off again…

Heather touches Julie’s hand, startling her.

HEATHER

Julie?

Julie, nervous, leaps out of her seat.

JULIE

Sorry…um…toilet stop…

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

Julie rushes through the restaurant to the restrooms. The ladies toilet is empty. She run cold water through her hands and splashes it onto her face. Julie looks at herself in the mirror. The toilet air-con makes a strange noise.

JULIE

(Startled)

Get a grip girl.

The shrill of her mobile phone cuts the silence of the room, scaring the shit out Julie. Julie fumbles for it. The display reads ‘OFFICE’.

JULIE

Hey…um yes…thanks Gronja…I’m sorry…tell them on my way…I’ll get a cab and stop off to take Heather home first and then I’ll be on my way OK? You’re a star.

She hangs up and takes one last glance in the mirror. Straightens her collar, lifts her head up high and moves through the door.

EXT. NEW YORK STREET – A LITTLE LATER.

A yellow cab pulls up along the sidewalk. It’s rainy and it’s beginning to get dark. The streetlights are beginning to cast an eerie glow across the streets. Heather gets out of the cab and leans back to talk to Julie who is sat in the back.

HEATHER

Thanks for the meal Julie and everything else over the last few months. I owe you more than you could imagine.

JULIE

I owe you. New York owes you.

HEATHER

You’ve been amazing. I thought no one could understand what happened but you’ve proved me sooo wrong.

JULIE

Thanks for being a star. Call me whenever you need me. Enjoy the holiday and I’ll see you soon. Will your Mom be home?

HEATHER

Yeah. Bye Julie.

They hug and Heather waves to Julie as she walks up to her Mom’s apartment building. Julie closes the door slowly, looks distant, stares at her hands and then looks onto the rainy street.

JULIE

(To Cabdriver)

Times Square please.

CAB DRIVER

I know…

Julie freezes, slowly brings her head up.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

JULIE

Sorry?

Behind the glass partition the shadow of the taxi man is revealed. He is wearing a large hat. He begins to move. Julie is panting, breathing hard, Scared. He has something in his hand. A HOOK! THE HOOK SMASHES THROUGH THE GLASS!

Julie suddenly snaps back to reality as the cab driver pulls open the glass partition. The driver is smiling, wearing bucket hat and waving a pen.

CAB DRIVER

I know you – you’re the lawyer from the TV – my wife admires you so much. Any chance of an autograph?

JULIE

(Shook up)

Er…of course.

Julie signs a piece of paper for him and the cab pulls away. The camera watches the cab go before panning up to reveal Heather closing her bedroom curtains.

EXT. SOUTHPORT HIGH SCHOOL – LATE AFTERNOON.

A large sign is hanging that reads ‘Wealth Week’ and a list of activities is listed. Students are mulling around. A bell rings.

INT. CLASSROOM – SAME.

Karla is in charge of this class. As the camera moves around we see Rebecca sat next to her friend Kathy and also Jamie and Ethan. Karla has a list of CPR instructions on the board behind her.

KARLA

(Attempting to be strict)

Look...it’s not my fault if the principle won’t give your certificates. Just because it’s nearly the holidays – I know what it’s like – road trips, parties. I’m only asking for a bit of

Co-operation.

All the kids moan. They are obviously bored.

Jamie stands up.

JAMIE

Ah miss come on cut the guys some slack here – they work all year – provide for the family, kids and wife

(Faked emotion)

They deserve a break!

The class applauds and cheers Jamie. He sits back down.

KARLA

OK…Fine. What’s your call on the last 10 minutes of this session then, Mr, Red, White and Blue Collar man?

Jamie throws his arm around Ethan.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

JAMIE

Well, me and my well-reserved, well-dressed, well-mannered friend here were wondering how our favourite teacher celebrates the holiday. And please don’t tell us you get up to some real Will Smith – Independence Day style ass-kicking action – because if that is the answer than I am truly regretting asking this question.

The class laughs.

KARLA

Well Jamie…what do you think?

KATHY

Come on miss – what’s the best July 4^th you ever had?

Karla’s face drops slightly and she looks at Rebecca. They make eye contact for a split-second and pass a knowing glance.

KARLA

Well, Kathy, ever since I left college I have spent it with my parents. Enjoying the delight of security, closeness and damn good food!

ETHAN

What about when you were at College and high school?

KARLA

College? Well…

(Hesitant)

There were fireworks…like you’ve never seen before!

And at high school, well with it being so many years ago. I was in high school near New York so it was pretty crazy, mad crowds, and people, street parties. An intense atmosphere. That’s not to say that I’m, not looking forward to the legendary Croaker parade of Southport this year. Even tough this isn’t New York – make sure you have fun with your friends, especially at this time, near graduation and everything.

Bell rings and the class moves to leave.

JAMIE

Wait – wait guys…

KATHY

Ah Come on Jay – time to go…

JAMIE

No wait.

Jamie is holding open an American History book.

JAMIE

It says here that as the July 4^th celebrations get into full swing, no students are required to learn anything, especially not during some mis-adventure called ‘Wealth Week’.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

He holds the book out as if to prove his point. Karla steadily walks up to him, a devilish look in her eye. Quick as a flash she spins round and in a swift movement kicks the book out of Jamie’s hand and sends it sailing out an open window. The class gasps. Jamie is frozen.

Karla speaks as she places Jamie’s arm back down by his side.

KARLA

Wouldn’t want to disappoint you on the Will Smith ass-kicking action, hey, boyfriend!

The class is not really sure how to react. Rebecca is. She starts applauding. The class erupts in whoops and cheers and laughs. Karla takes a bow.

INT. NEW YORK COFFEE HOUSE. EVENING.

The interior is decorated warmly with sofas and the like. Very Familiar. Mark is sat with Rob and Rob’s fiancé Chrissy. They are all sat on one sofa.

MARK

Why would anyone do that?

He shakes sweet and low into his coffee.

MARK
(Continued)

No-one wants this place turned into a bar. I mean where the hell is everyone going to sit a chat when they should actually be at work?

(BEAT)

Man – life sucks!

They all sit silently, contemplating life! The door slams open startling them all. Julie enters. She says hey to everyone.

ROB

Hey – how’s the sexiest, most successful girl in New York City?

Chrissy elbows him sharply.

ROB

Hey – how’s the second most sexy, most successful girl in New York City?

JULIE

I’m exhausted.

Waitress comes over.

JULIE

Cappuccino please.

Julie sits down.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

JULIE

Man – what a day. You know Jack gives you time of work and yet you still end up knackered.

MARK

Yeah – must be hard spending the company’s money on expensive food.

Julie realises that she’s done very little all afternoon.

JULIE

Yeah…well…you know…knife…fork...the lifting!

Julie’s arms go heavy as she collapses into the chair.

CHRISSY

How’s Heather coping now the case is out of the way?

JULIE

You know, Chrissy, that’s really weird. How shy she was during the entire, emotional re-tread of what happened to her? This afternoon she honestly could not stop talking. Must be a defence mechanism. I mean, not that I mind, whatever she needs to get off her chest is fine by me.

Julie doesn’t realise how fast she is talking. The others smirk.

That’s half of my job right? Listening? Listening to people’s ordeals and traumas – but man can that girl talk!

ROB

She’s been spending way too much time with you!

JULIE

Hey Mr. – I have issues too.

CHRISSY

(Excited)

Yeah – like how are you gonna spend all the extra cash Jack throws at you.

Julie shrugs it off at first but gradually gets excited.

JULIE

Yeah. Shopping. And of course Ray can finally come here and join me. He told me this morning that someone’s gonna look at the house soon.

First step towards the big city.

Julie sits back and looks happy and content. The rest of the group are happy for her. Julie’s coffee arrives.

CHRISSY

Is Ray coming for the holidays?

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

JULIE

No, not this year. Although I’ll be seeing him next weekend. He says he’s got too much last minute work to do. He’ll probably see Karla and the kids before Karla comes up.

I just want to say thanks to you guys for bearing with me over the last few months – what with the case and all – I couldn’t ask for greater friends… (BEAT) …than the ones I’ve got now.

Chrissy hugs her.

CHRISSY

(Taking Rob’s hand)

Listen we are gonna have to get going if we are gonna make that movie.

JULIE

Oh – what you gonna see?

ROB

Some Sandra Bullock shit!

Chrissy punches him hard as they both get up to leave.

CHRISSY

Don’t forget dinner at ours tomorrow night – I’ll call you later hun.

They leave. Julie looks at her watch and realises it’s later than she thought.

JULIE

Oh shoot Mark, sorry to dash but I gotta call Karla before it gets too late.

Julie drinks her coffee and moves to leave.

MARK

Any chance of discussing what Jack proposed earlier?

JULIE

Yeah – what - the time off? I’ll be back in tomorrow probably sorting paperwork!

ROB

No, actually, I meant the next case. I really need you on this.

JULIE

Why? What is it?

ROB

Standard serial mugger…but…

JULIE

Come on Mark, you can handle that.

MARK

NO…you see…

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

JULIE

Look, don’t worry, you’ll walk it.

She kisses his cheek and moves toward the door but Mark grabs her arm sharply. She stops looks shocked for a moment, gives a nervous laugh as Mark lets go.

JULIE

Listen, I’m always around. You know that.

Julie exits the coffee house.

MARK

(Subdued)

Yeah…you’re always around.

EXT. NEW YORK STREETS - EARLY NIGHT.

Julie moves through the increasing number of tourists who are visiting the city for the July 4^th celebrations. Julie notices a banner hanging over a nearby restaurant: JULY 4^th – 2 DAYS TO GO!

She pauses, shakes her head and moves on down the street. A bar pounds out The Goo Goo Dolls – ‘Broadway is dark tonight…’

INT. JULIE’S APARTMENT. NIGHT.

Julie comes in; she is wet from the rain. The apartment is dark. She throws her keys into a bowl on a table. She looks at the flashing light on the answer phone, flicks the messages to play and then moves into the kitchen, flicking the light on as she goes. The light flickers. In the kitchen Julie pours Cat food into a dish while the first message comes on.

JULIE

Nickademus?

Julie calls for her cat.

MACHINE

You have three new messages.

First message.

KARLA ON MACHINE

Hey girlfriend it’s Karla. Just on lunch – seen the result – well done – knew you could do it. Speak later.

Julie pours herself a glass of juice and grabs some food from the fridge.

MACHINE

Second message.

JULIE’S MOM ON MACHINE

Hello honey it’s Mom, Congratulations sweetheart. Hope you are feeling OK…you know how much I hate these machines…CLICK

Julie laughs.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

JULIE

Mom – get with the Millennium!

MACHINE

Third message.

RAY ON MACHINE

Hey sexy towel girl it’s me. Just got home and thought I’d call before I get back to work. I hope no hotshot attorney has taken advantage of your success today or I’ll kick his ass.

Julie talks to the machine as the she moves through the apartment eating and drinking.

JULIE

You gotta trust me Ray.

RAY ON MACHINE

Well done anyway baby – I’m proud of you…listen…I know you hate this and me talking about it…

JULIE

Here we go!

RAY ON MACHINE

…I know it’s the time of year…

JULIE

Thanks for reminding me!

RAY ON MACHINE

…and you hate me reminding you…but hang in there baby doll…

JULIE

I am trying Ray.

RAY ON MACHINE

I know how strong you are and how much you’ve gained from the city life and the job but I do miss you…anyway I’ll see you soon. Oh – love you!

Julie smiles. The machine clicks off. Julie picks up the phone. Julie dials and walks down the hallway as she waits for an answer. She tries lights and they flicker off.

JULIE

Fucking meter…so bloody typical!

As she moves slowly and carefully in the dark she hears a noise. Once in the bedroom she notices the balcony door that she has left open all day. She was in too much of a hurry to remember to close it this morning. The curtains flap in the breeze.

JULIE

Shit!

Julie is frozen. Silence. Suddenly her cat jumps out of nowhere and scares the shit out of her.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

JULIE

Ah – Nickademus. Oh – Run – go find someone else to scare!

Julie catches her breath as Nickademus runs off. The phone rings and startles her again.

JULIE

Hello?

KARLA ON PHONE

Hello – it’s me

JULIE

Hey Karla – how you doing?

KARLA ON PHONE

Good – you OK?

JULIE

Yeah – listen can I call you right back. I gotta sort the meter out cos the electric’s gone down again.

KARLA ON PHONE

Yeah.

Julie hangs up on Karla and calls the building reception.

JULIE

Hi this apartment 201, the power’s gone down again. Ok – thanks Paulie.

Julie hangs up, punches *69 and calls Karla.

JULIE

Hey – hun sorry about that. I’m functioning by moonlight at the moment. It’s just my luck that a terrorised girl with a past of hell and trauma picks the apartment that has the constant power failure.

Julie slides the balcony door shut.

KARLA ON PHONE

Wait till you get handyman Ray up there.

JULIE

The sooner the better. How are things down there? All ready for the holidays?

KARLA ON PHONE

Yeah just about. One more day left of extra school time. The towns gone pretty mad with the whole preparation for the parade and pageant and all that. You know how it is.

JULIE

Nothing ever changes. At least with me out of town there’ll be no corpses at this years festivities.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

KARLA ON PHONE

Hey – less of that talk sister. Anyway I’m feeding the five thousand tonight.

(to kids in background)

Say hey to Julie everyone!

(They all shout hello)

JULIE

(Laughing)

How’s the decorating going?

KARLA ON PHONE

Good, apart from the teenage bedroom. Rebecca can’t make up her mind what colour to have it. You’ll have to come and see when it’s all finally done. You and Ray can stop in the guest suite…well it’s just a sofa bed...but…we miss you here. I know your Mom does.

JULIE

You know I can’t come back yet Karla. Although I can’t wait to see everyone again soon. Listen I’m gonna dash and get Chinese food before I start to do some paper work for the night. I’ll e-mail you flight times tonight too and then you can start planning.

KARLA ON PHONE

Who-hoo! Mind you I don’t know if I trust Southport’s teens enough to leave them alone. How their parents ever trust them enough to buy them cars I’ll never know. Especially Jamie – he’s a terror!

There are shouts of disagreement in the background and Julie giggles.

JULIE

OK – you take care of them kids – they’re next years senate remember.

KARLA ON PHONE

God Forbid! See you later Jules.

JULIE

Bye Karla.

As Julie hangs up she is smiling. She always feels better after talking to Karla. She moves down the corridor back towards the kitchen and living room. The lights flicker back on and as she moves into the room. The stereo comes back to life and the TV and the computer at her desk. Julie doesn’t remember leaving the computer on.

She moves round the desk. He face drops as she reads what is on the screen. The screen-saver has been changed to read a chilling message.

‘I KNOW…’

Julie gasps. The screen flickers.

‘I STILL KNOW…’

Her hands start to shake. The screen flickers once more.

‘I WILL ALWAYS KNOW…’

Julie gasps and turns on her heel. She races towards the door, flings it open and runs SMACK BANG into Mark!

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

JULIE

(Breathless)

Mark! Oh…

MARK

You OK Julie?

JULIE

Mark…How long have you been here?

Who let you in the block?

MARK

Paulie – I just got here. What’s wrong?

JULIE

What are you doing here Mark?

MARK

I tried to show you in the Coffee House but you ran out on me.

I wanted to go over some papers Jack gave to me.

JULIE

Oh – erm…OK.

Julie hesitantly moves towards the flat, she pushes the door open slowly and moves in. She looks at the computer – it has returned to normal, no threatening message. Julie, puzzled, shakes her head disbelieving.

MARK

Is this a bad time Julie?

JULIE

No…sorry Mark…I’m just a little tired…Ok…let’s go to work.

The two of them sit down and begin to work.

INT. KARLA’S FLAT. LIVING ROOM. SAME NIGHT.

Ethan, Jamie, Kathy and Rebecca are sat round the table as Karla serves dinner. They all chat and thank Karla as she places dinner in front of them. Throughout this sequence the candles on the table gradually get lower and lower. The camera fades between snaps of conversation to show how happy this group of friends are. Karla is seen talking about college – meeting Ray and Julie and describes how they are in the present situation. Eventually the plates are clear, coffees are finished and the kids are seen getting their coats on.

KARLA

Come on guys - Get out of mine and Becky’s hair!

REBECCA

Yeah – I’m gonna have to clean up all your mess now. Thanks friends!

JAMIE

It was our pleasure.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

Karla gives Jamie a quick slap.

KARLA

Go – on get the hell out of here. But remember you gotta learn your CPR facts for tomorrow. And be careful – it’s getting dark.

KATHY

Thanks for dinner Karla – it was fantastic.

KARLA

No problem Kathy – see you later.

They all ad-lib ‘bye’, get coats and move down the hall. Ethan kisses Rebecca slyly.

ETHAN

I’ll see you tomorrow yeah?

REBECCA

Of course.

They kiss passionately.

KARLA

Ugh – public display!

KATHY

(To Jamie)

Why don’t you kiss me like that anymore?

JAMIE

I kiss you like that - you know I do.

Come on let’s go. I’ll drive you home Ethan.

Jamie slaps Kathy’s ass as they leave. Karla and Rebecca watch from the window as the three of them get into Jamie’s car and drive into the night.

INT. NEW YORK. JACK’S OFFICE. FOLLOWING DAY/AFTERNOON.

Jack’s office is large. Very executive with a big desk and many chairs. The desk is cluttered with regular office items. Computer etc. Jack is sat on one side of the desk, Julie on the other.

They are halfway through an intense conversation

JACK

You understand my position Julie?

JULIE

But…my fiancé was going to move here ASAP – he’s down in Southport and we were gonna get together again. We haven’t lived together now for nearly three years.

JACK

Yes…since you graduated and moved here. I know Julie. Listen it’s only a couple of months I’m asking for and then you’ll get the money Ok. I’m sure you can wait that long yes? Absence makes the heart grow fonder.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

JULIE

It’s fond enough already.

JACK

Listen – I’ll have another look at the books and see what I can do. Now – go on – get ready for Rob’s dinner. You won’t want to be late now.

Julie gets up to leave. She is not happy. She moves toward the door.

JACK

(Shouting after Julie as she leaves)

Happy 4^th of July Julie! See you after the weekend.

JULIE

(Under her breath)

You too – dipshit!

As Julie leaves the office it is deserted, however the streets are busy. 1 DAY TO GO. It is getting dark.

INT. KARLA’S FLAT. EARLY EVENING.

Rebecca dashes in and grabs her coat. Karla is sat reading.

KARLA

Did you pass?

REBECCA

Yup – all of us got the thumbs up!

KARLA

Well done hun – where you off to?

REBECCA

Just to the beach for a bit. The gang’s waiting in the car.

Karla gets up wanders out on to the balcony. She waves to Ethan, Jamie and Kathy who are sat in Jamie’s new car.

KARLA

Ok – don’t be too late. Dinner will be about 9. OK?

REBECCA

OK boss. See you later.

Rebecca breezes out. Karla settles back down with her book.

EXT. NEW YORK SUBURB. NIGHT.

Julie is stood outside quite a nice house. She presses the buzzer and waits. She is holding flowers and a bottle of wine, dressed smartly as usual. After a moment she presses again just as Rob comes to the door. He is dressed only in Boxer shorts.

ROB

(Grinning)

Hey Julie!

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

Julie is a little taken aback by Rob’s dress code.

JULIE

OH.

ROB

You taking the suit off inside yeah?

JULIE

Sorry?

ROB

Underwear party remember?

Chrissy appears and knocks Rob to the side. She is dressed regularly.

CHRISSY

Hey – ignore him. You know how slack he is at getting ready.

(To Rob)

Now – go get dressed.

She slaps his ass as he goes upstairs. She kisses Julie – they go in.

INT. CHRISSY’S DINING ROOM.

It is halfway through dinner. Many people sat round table. Including Rob (now dressed), Chrissy, Gronja and Mark. It’s very relaxed and Julie is talking.

JULIE

It’s so frustrating you know. He promised so many times and now I have to call Ray and disappoint him again.

MARK

(Drunkenly)

Hey relax Julie. You’ll get the money cos YOU’RE THE FUCKIN STAR!

CHRISSY

(To Mark)

Hey – knock it off. Just because you can’t cope on your own.

Mark attempts to get up.

MARK

I can cope.

I’m just as good as she is.

JULIE

Mark?

ROB

Hey – calm down man.

Mark slips off his chair. He is wrecked.

ROB

I think it’s time you went home mate. Sleep all this off and chill out over the holiday.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

Rob carries Mark out the room and returns later after seeing him into a cab. The rest sit silently for a moment not quite sure what to say.

GRONJA

Can we talk about something else?

JULIE

Yeah – Rob. What’s happening in the publishing world?

ROB

Very little – as usual. Too much romance, too much science fiction, not enough room for contemporary independent ideas!

They all ‘ah’ sympathetically to Rob.

JULIE

Sorry gang – gonna have to take a potty break.

Julie leaves the room to go to the toilet.

INT. JACK’S OFFICE - SAME NIGHT.

It is now late. The office is lit by a desk light. Jack is gathering sheets and stuffing various files into his briefcase. He wants to go home to his family, he has had enough of work. There is a noise out in the reception area – Jack goes to look. He pokes his head out the door. Nothing there. Suddenly the reception phone rings. Jack curses and moves out to the desk. We can see Gronja’s desk and the offices that belong to Julie, Mark and the other lawyers. Jack answers the phone.

JACK

Hello? Who is this?

Jack has his back to his office door and fails to notice the shadow slipping into his office slowly and silently. There is no-one on the phone. Jack replaces the receiver and goes back to his office, closing the door behind him. The first thing he does is get his jacket from the large coat hook on the back of his door. He then turns around to get his briefcase and comes face to face with a figure! Jack is startled. He is scared and is not sure what to say. He steps backward and stumbles over a chair. The figure is standing over him. Jack gets up and tries to get behind the desk but the figure grabs him and throws him on top of the desk. The computer crashes to the floor. Jack rolls off the desk whimpering and tries to get to the door but the figure is faster and grabs Jack’s small figure by the scruff of the neck and lifts him off the ground. In a swift movement the figure slams Jack against the door, the coat hook ripping through Jack’s neck. The figure leaves and Jack is left hanging.

INT. KARLA’S FLAT - SAME NIGHT.

Karla is cooking in the kitchen. It is raining outside but very dry and safe inside. The flat door creaks open slowly. Karla spins around startled. Rebecca is stood in the doorway, soaking wet. She looks cold and afraid. Karla puts her knife down.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

KARLA

Oh My God! What the hell is wrong? What’s happened?

Rebecca is unable to speak. She points downstairs. Karla races out of the flat and down the stairs onto the porch. Ethan, Kathy and Jamie are sat there looking equally as scared. No one is talking.

KARLA

Does someone what to tell me what the fuck is going on. What has happened? Ethan? Anyone? I thought you were at the beach.

Karla looks around. Realises something is missing.

KARLA

Where’s the car?

INT. CHRISSY AND ROBS. NEW YORK. SAME NIGHT.

Julie is seen saying goodbye to everyone. Chrissy and Rob kiss her goodnight and wish her a happy holiday. Julie moves onto the dark New York street looking for a cab. She spots one and sticks her arm out. As she waits for it to pull up a figure slips out of the darkness behind her and moves towards her, it places a hand on Julie’s shoulder scaring the shit out of her. It’s Mark. Still drunk.

MARK

Listen Julie…I just want to apologise for my behaviour tonight.

Julie struggles to hold Mark up. The taxi pulls up and she throws the door open and pushes Mark in.

JULIE

It’s OK Mark. No hard feelings. Come on; let’s get you home.

Julie gets in the cab after him and it pulls away.

EXT. NEW YORK STREET. SAME NIGHT.

The cab pulls up and Julie helps Mark get out. She leans back to the driver.

JULIE

Listen, I’m just gonna get him inside and then I’ll be right back OK?

Mark is struggling with the key and lock to his flat door.

MARK

Have you ever noticed how when you are drunk your keyhole moves around the door!

Julie takes the key and opens the glass door, they move inside.

INT. MARK’S HALLWAY.

Julie carries Mark up the stairs to the first floor; he tries to speak but can’t really make any sense. On the landing Julie opens the flat door and they go in.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

INT. MARK’S FLAT.

It is dark and Julie flips on the lights.

JULIE

Where’s Phil?

MARK

OUT!

Julie

Yeah – don’t we all know that!

Mark manages to make it to the sofa and collapses. Julie moves back towards the door but something catches her eye on Mark’s Desk. It is a file from the office. ‘Heather Craven’. Julie is puzzled but is too tired to enquire.

MARK

Hey Julie – I want to tell you something…

JULIE

I’ll call you in the morning Mark, after you’ve slept this off. Good night Mark.

Julie leaves the flat. Mark kicks off his shoes and attempts to get up. He is very unsteady on his feet. He moves into the kitchen and grabs some Orange Juice in a carton. Drinking sloppily Mark spills it all down his shirt. Annoyed he takes his shirt off. Mark is incredibly well built and in good shape. Back in the room he flicks on the stereo. ‘I Will Survive’ by Gloria Gaynor blasts out. Mark sings badly as he pulls off his pants and moves into the bedroom. Dressed only in his boxers now. Out of nowhere a figure appears in front of Mark. The lights are off and he can’t make out who it is or how they got in. It’s not Phil!

MARK

Who the fuck are you?

Mark tries to have a drunken fight but the figure is stronger and grabs Mark’s arm and throws him into the wall, Mark head smashes into a framed photo of him and Phil on the wall. He stumbles back to his feet dazed and makes a run for it. Dashing down the hall and towards his door, Mark realises Julie can’t have got far.

MARK

Julie! Julie!

EXT. MARK’S PORCH.

Julie freezes thinking she has heard Mark shouting. She shakes her head and closes the glass door leaving it shaking. She gets in the cab.

INT. MARK’S LANDING.

Mark is panting and stumbling as he tries to get to the stairwell. The figure is right behind him. Mark spins to see how close he is, misses a step, trips and falls down the stairs hard, bouncing as he goes. At the bottom Mark crashes straight through the glass door just as Julie’s cab pulls away, the glass sears straight through his body. Mark is dead and the figure steps over him, through the broken frame and away from the scene. The camera follows the figures feet, the boots are VERY familiar!

INT. KARLA’S JEEP. SOUTHPORT. SAME NIGHT.

All the gang are sat silently scared in the car. Karla is at the wheel driving fast looking worried, quizzing the kids about what happened.

KARLA

Were you speeding?

JAMIE

NO

KARLA

Are you drunk?

JAMIE

NO!

KARLA

Are you crazy!

JAMIE

NO!

REBECCA

Listen, Karla, this isn’t helping. It was an accident. He was just there in the road!

KATHY

My parents are gonna be so mad at me.

KARLA

This isn’t happening.

You know how goddamn dangerous this road is – that’s why no one uses it at night. Especially when it is raining!

ETHAN

This is it!

The camera pans out as the car pulls to a stop revealing a familiar part of Southport…

EXT. REAPER’S CURVE SOUTHPORT.

Karla parks behind Jamie’s car, which is sat in the middle of the road, at an angle. They all get out. It’s dark and quiet. Jamie’s car can be seen, steaming slightly. Waves crash below. Karla flicks the headlights off.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

ETHAN

It was just over here.

KARLA

Get the flashlights from the trunk.

Rebecca grabs two flashlights. She carries one and Karla has the other. Slowly, they all move round the front of Jamie’s car,

KARLA

Did you see if he was dead?

JAMIE

He looked it

KATHY

(Tearful)

Are we gonna go to prison?

KARLA

Stop panicking. No one's going anywhere.

ETHAN

He was right behind that verge.

Karla shines her torch where Ethan points. Rebecca sits at the side of the road silently. Jamie stands in the road with his arm around Kathy who is shaking. Karla and Ethan continue to look.

KARLA

(Brighter)

There’s nothing here. It must have been a dear or something. There’s nothing here.

Suddenly the headlights of Jamie’s car come into action. Ethan pushes Karla onto the verge but it’s too late for Jamie and Kathy they are trapped in the glare of the lights. Frozen. Rebecca leaps to her feet and over the roar of the engine screams.

REBECCA

RUN!

The car moves forward and Jamie and Kathy come to life, they run but the car has them trapped, wherever they turn it turns. It bears straight down on them and edges them away from the verge and towards the edge of the road. They are trapped with nowhere left to run and the only possible chance of escape is over the edge. They dash and leap straight over cliff and disappear down into the darkness. No sound. The car stops short of the edge, reverses and speeds off up the road leaving Ethan, Rebecca and Karla dumbstruck.

INT. KARLA’S FLAT. SOUTHPORT. SAME NIGHT.

Karla, Ethan and Rebecca come into the flat, they are wet and scared. Ethan is stressed, Karla is trying to gather her thoughts and decide what to do.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

ETHAN

Call the fucking police!

KARLA

NO! Not yet – I gotta think…

REBECCA

There’s no time.

KARLA

Don’t you get it? You hit a man.

ETHAN

He wasn’t even dead and now there isn’t even a car!

REBECCA

And now our two best friends are dead!

KARLA

You don’t know that!

ETHAN

No, but the hundred foot drop and rocks do!

KARLA

STOP PANICKING!

ETHAN

(Reaching for the phone)

I’m calling the police

KARLA

(Snatching the phone)

I’m the adult here.

ETHAN

Were not at school now!

REBECCA

Listen Ethan.

KARLA

This is what’s gonna happen OK?

As Karla takes control the next series of shots is kind of a montage of the action the three take. First Karla calls the airport.

KARLA

…leaving right away if possible...yes…two please…

Ethan sits and comforts Rebecca. Karla is then on the phone to Julie.

KARLA

Hey…Its Karla...I can’t get you at home and your mobile’s off…maybe your asleep…I need you to have Ethan and Rebecca for a couple of days...it’s a bit awkward here at the moment…I hope it doesn’t mess up your holiday…

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

Rebecca is packing a bag. Karla then sits the two of them down.

KARLA

I know all this seems crazy but you have to trust me. It’s not going to be safe for you to be here for the July 4^th celebrations OK, not after what I have seen tonight. I’ll explain it all later. Ethan we’ll call at your house and get some stuff, tell your Mom you will be here for a couple of days. Then once you are in New York you are going to stop with Julie for a couple of days. I’m going to stop here call Ray, the Police and the school and get it sorted. This will probably blow over in a few days. I’ll drive up to New York in the morning and I’ll keep trying to get Julie so she knows you’re coming OK?

They both nod reluctantly.

KARLA

OK…let’s go.

The three leave the flat.

INT. LOCAL AIRPORT.

Karla hugs Ethan and Rebecca as they ready to board the plane.

KARLA

Don’t worry.

They wave good-bye and Karla leaves.

INT. AEROPLANE.

Rebecca and Ethan are sat next to each other ready for take off. Rebecca turns to Ethan.

REBECCA

Listen, I think there’s something you should know about Julie James, Karla and Ray.

Ethan turns to listen.

REBECCA

There was an accident…and a man…

INT. JULIE’S APARTMENT. NEW YORK. THE NEXT MORNING. JULY 3^rd.

Julie is moving through her apartment in a bathrobe. She hasn’t noticed the flashing answer phone light on the machine. The phone rings.

JULIE

Hello, Julie James?

Hey Gronja…well Jack said I could have a couple of days off…plus it is the day before the holidays anyway…What?

A look of horror comes across Julie’s face.

(CONTINUED)

CONTINUED)

JULIE

(Continued)

I’ll be there right away.

Julie hangs up and rushes to the bedroom.

INT. J&J ASSOCIATES. NEW YORK. SAME MORNING.

Julie enters the building by the main door. There are police everywhere and many lines of Yellow police tape around Jack’s office. A look of bewilderment is on Julie’s face. Gronja comes rushing up to her; she looks tired and quite scared.

GRONJA

They want to talk to you as soon as possible. Its dreadful Julie…oh my god..a cleaner found him this morning…hook through his neck.

Julie is shocked, face frozen, it can’t be happening again.

JULIE

HOOK?!

GRONJA

Yes – his coat hook – apparently he was hanging on it. But it gets worse Julie…it wasn’t just Jack last night. Apparently Mark too.

JULIE

Mark? But…

GRONJA

Phil found him late last night, smashed though his lobby door. The glass just…

Gronja makes a motion with her hands. She cannot bring herself to actually say the words.

JULIE

Oh My God!

A suited man walks over to the two ladies. He holds out a police badge.

DETECTIVE SHEPARD

Miss James?

JULIE

Yes.

DETECTIVE SHEPARD

Superintendent Sam Shepard. I wonder if you could find the time to answer some questions for us.

JULIE

(Still distant)

Yes...of course. Whatever I can do to help.

INT. JULIE’S OFFICE.

The detective and Julie are sat opposite each other in Julie’s office.

DETECTIVE SHEPARD

(Looking at notes)

The secretary tells me you were probably the last person to see Jack Richards. You had a meeting with him at the end of the day?

JULIE

That’s right.

DETECTIVE SHEPARD

I wonder if you could walk me through what happened in that meeting please Miss James?

JULIE

Yes, well Jack…Mr Richards…has been intending on increasing my wage for the last few months and he promised to meet with me about it once my last case was finished. I met him, we chatted for about twenty minutes about it and it was decided that the budget wasn’t ready, not for at least another two months.

DETECTIVE SHEPARD

Do you need the money badly?

JULIE

Well, my fiancé is preparing to move up here as soon as possible so it will come in handy.

DETECTIVE SHEPARD

So, Mr Richard’s news probably ruined your plans slightly.

JULIE

Not ruined, just postponed.

DETECTIVE SHEPARD

What was your mood when you heard Mr Richard’s news?

JULIE

I was a little shocked and upset.

DETECTIVE SHEPARD

Angry?

JULIE

No. Mr Richards and me have a very relaxed working relationship.

DETECTIVE SHEPARD

Where were you at about Nine pm last night Miss James?

JULIE

At a dinner party.

DETECTIVE SHEPARD

(Making notes)

Ah yes…that brings us to Mark Irons. He was there too right?

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

JULIE

Yes, he was drunk and was a little upset about the fact that Jack had sent him to work alone on a case. My friend Rob Mathers helped him to a cab but when I left the house he was still there so I got him in a tax and the last time I saw him was about Eleven thirty when I left him asleep on his sofa. Then I went straight home to bed.

DETECTIVE SHEPARD

Well, his partner came home about midnight and found him at the bottom of the stairs. Much further on than just asleep on the sofa.

So it would appear that you were the last to see Mark alive too.

JULIE

What are you insinuating Detective?

DETECTIVE SHEPARD

Nothing at all. Just need to get my facts straight. I mean at first sights it looks like Mark could have fallen down those stairs, there’s no sign of a struggle or forced entry. With Mr Richards it’s slightly different. He’s a lot smaller than the hook on his door; someone purposefully put him there! Plus his office is a little smashed up as if there has been some sort of fight, struggle or argument. However, once again, there’s very little evidence.

JULIE

Well, Detective I assure you I have told you everything I know, if anything else comes to mind I will tell you. So until you have hard evidence I think you know the rules detective because I sure as hell do!

With that Julie gets up and the detective gets up slowly, nods and leaves the room. Julie is tense, her fists clenched tightly. She moves out of her office to where Gronja is sat behind her desk.

JULIE

I don’t believe this – that jerk almost accused me of all this.

GRONJA

Don’t worry, he was the same with me, you know what they are like.

JULIE

Listen; tell him to call me at home if he wants to ask me any more questions OK? Will you give him my number?

GRONJA

Yeah, no problem.

JULIE

I am gonna call Karla and then grab a coffee.

Julie heads to get her bag; Gronja stops her suddenly remembering something.

GRONJA

Oh Julie, there was a parcel for you this morning, I almost forgot.

JULIE

Thanks Gronja

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

Gronja passes the medium sized box across the desk and Julie

re-enters her office.

INT. JULIE’S OFFICE.

Julie places the box on her desk. The phone rings. She pops on a headset so she can listen/speak and open the box at the same time.

JULIE

Hello, Julie James?

Hey Karla, I was about to call you, no I didn’t get your message, You’ll never guess what’s happened here today…

Julie speaks as she unwraps the box. She opens it. It’s full of white polystyrene packaging with a note on top.

JULIE

What? Where are the kids? Oh my God.

Two sets of horror are dawning on Julie. One as Karla explains the accident in Southport and the death of Kathy and Jamie and the other is happening in front of her. Julie picks up the note and opens it. It is familiar handwriting. Slowly Julie scans the card.

It reads: ‘HAPPY ANNIVERSARY JULIE’.

She is shaking now. Slowly she digs her hand into the box…

JULIE

What did you do with Ethan and Rebecca? You did right. I’ll go and get them now.

In the box Julie’s hand touches on something, her hand grips round it and she pulls it out in one swift movement – A HOOK! Seeing it glint in the light she looks sick and drops it straight back in the box panicking.

JULIE

Karla, get the hell out of Southport, get Ray and drive up here now…

Julie tears the headset off, grabs the box and dashes out of the office.

EXT. CAR – PARK. NEW YORK.

Julie’s name is on her parking space. She is seen running to the car – the same Jeep seen at the end of ‘I Still Know...’ Unlocking the car she throws the box in the trunk, jumps into the car, pulls out of the car park and then races through the New York traffic towards the airport. Banners everywhere read – IT’S TOMORROW!

INT. KARLA’S FLAT. SOUTHPORT. MORNING.

Karla looks tired. She has her coat on and a suitcase waits by the flat door. She is on the phone and whilst she waits for an answer she moves around the kitchen making sure everything is switched off and all the lights are off etc.

INT. RAY’S GARAGE. SOUTHPORT – SAME MORNING.

Ray is welding/sawing an item of joinery. It makes a loud noise. Too loud for Ray to hear the phone ringing inside the house. The answer phone clicks on.

INT. KARLA’S FLAT. SOUTHPORT – SAME.

KARLA

Hey Ray it’s Karla, listen there’s been a bit of a change of plan, I’m going to New York right now. I really think you should get out of Southport too…there’s no time to explain. Call me on my mobile or call Julie as soon as you can. I’ve been calling all morning…I don’t know where you are…listen…take care…see you.

Karla hangs up and grabs her purse. One last job – pull the blinds. She pulls the first one and turns her back on it straight away. She turns and sees the reflection in the mirror – crash zoom – Karla freezes, she turns round the right way to face the blind. On the inside someone has scrawled a bloody message on it.

GOING SOMEWHERE KARLA?

KARLA

(Hushed)

Oh My God

Shaking she suddenly realises she is incredibly exposed and anyone could see her through the windows of the flat. She runs and pulls another blind. Another message is on this one too.

LET’S PLAY A GAME.

KARLA

Shit!

Slowly she moves to the next blind and pulls it.

STAY HERE – LIVE!

Then the next blind

GO TO NYC – DIE!

She is not prepared to be terrorised anymore. She grabs her keys and races to the last blind.

KARLA

FUCK YOU ASSHOLE!

The last blind makes her freeze!

YOU LOSE.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

Karla is frozen. Shaking, waiting for what happens next, not sure what to do. Suddenly a hook rips through the blind and a figure in a slicker, whose face cannot be seen leaps onto Karla. He pins her to the floor, Karla kicks and screams and manages to break free. A chase ensues around the flat, over the sofa, Karla tries to make it to the door but he cuts her off. She suddenly realises that if she can get onto the balcony she can jump for it. Quick as a flash she runs to the balcony and slides open the door, however, this guys is quicker, he pushes a small dinner trolley in her way. Karla trips, falls and slides out onto the balcony crashing through the old wooden rails, falling headfirst to her death. Throughout this entire scene the killer’s face has not been revealed.

INT. NEW YORK AIRPORT. SAME MORNING.

Julie comes running into the arrivals area and scans the crowds of people. A voice calls her from behind.

REBECCA (O.C)

Julie! Julie!

Julie spins around. Rebecca is running towards her with Ethan close behind. They hug and Julie holds Rebecca’s face.

JULIE

Thank goodness you’re both OK. This is all so bad. Come on – let’s get the hell out of here.

INT. JULIE’S APARTMENT. NEW YORK. SAME DAY – AFTERNOON.

Julie, Rebecca and Ethan enter the apartment. The two kids carrying backpacks drop down in the nearest chairs. They have been up all night and the events of the night before have taken their toll on them. They look exhausted. Julie goes into the kitchen and begins to make coffee.

JULIE

So – I spoke to Karla this morning and she explained everything. I am so sorry to hear what happened to your friends. It happens to the best of us and I know that is no consolation at the moment but it does get better and easier to cope with.

Julie re-enters the living room and hands a cup of coffee to Rebecca and one to Ethan. She gives them a comforting smile.

JULIE

(To Ethan)

I’m sure Karla or Rebecca filled you on the events of a few years ago?

Ethan nods slowly.

JULIE

I am so sorry it has had to happen like this.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

ETHAN

What if our accident and what happened to Kathy and Jay has nothing to do with you…what if it was just some sicko playing a prank…it’s probably nothing to do with Ben Willis or whatever his name is…for god sake Julie – you killed him remember. If Rebecca’s right in what she tells me – you saw him die.

JULIE

(Nodding)

Yes…and I saw him die two times before that too. Or at least I thought I did. Now Rebecca was told what happened because she had a right to know. It’s important to remain calm…I’ve been in worst situations than this and panicking does not help – trust me! However, you might be right and I haven’t once said this could be related. It’s just all too easy that’s all. Same time of year, same accident, same place!

REBECCA

But…Ethan might be right Julie…

JULIE

You guys should know something else…last night two of my work colleagues, Jack and Mark, were murdered, or at least the police think they were murdered.

REBECCA

What?

JULIE

Don’t you get it? So long as the same group of people – Me, Ray, Karla are in two different places, it WILL happen again - in two different places. New York, where I am, and Southport, where they are – where it all began. The thing is when this started four years ago, there were four of us involved in that accident. Now if my math is correct there were four of you last night too!

ETHAN

What are you trying to say Julie?

JULIE

He tried to kill us one by one. First Barry then Helen.

REBECCA

(Distant)

First Kathy then Jamie.

ETHAN

No fucking way! That means were next Bec, Oh my God.

REBECCA

But wait – he never killed you and Ray.

JULIE

Not for the want of trying. Twice. What I’m trying to say is that you two have to stay together and be very careful. Don’t leave the apartment until we have decided what to do. OK?

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

They both nod. Julie is pacing around nervously.

JULIE

The thing is, if the murders here are related to Southport, then you might have been sent directly into the path of the killer. And if Karla is on her way then we’re just missing Ray and then the whole gang is back together again for one last stand!

REBECCA

Do the police here know about your past Julie?

JULIE

NO – they actually insinuated this morning that I might be involved with all this because I had had arguments with Jack and Mark.

Plus I received a note at work today, which virtually spelled out that all this is related to my past…

(Growing subdued)

And something else, a gift, but that’s another matter altogether.

ETHAN

Then what the hell are we going to do? Just sit here and wait to see who drops next?

JULIE

Well, if past experience has taught me anything, it’s probably going to get worse before it gets better. Now, I have a little idea about where to start the end of all this. I want you to wait here, I’ll be gone half an hour max, make yourselves at home and don’t leave the flat.

Julie grabs her car keys and jacket and makes for the door. She pauses and tries to smile at the two kids reassuringly.

JULIE

I am so sorry I have ruined your holiday for you.

They sit silently. Julie goes to the door and looks back one more time.

JULIE

I’ll be right back.

EXT. MARK’S APARTMENT BLOCK. NEW YORK. SAME DAY, NOW EARLY AFTERNOON.

Julie’s car draws up outside the block. She walks up the path and sees the police tape across the door. However, she has no other lead to think about and nothing to lose so, looking around, she steps through the door and walks quickly up the stairs.

INT. MARK’S APARTMENT.

Julie pokes her head through the open door. She can hear police voices through in the bedroom down the hall. She creeps in and looks quickly around the stereo unit, under the desk, draws etc. Then she sees it. Dirty boot prints on the wooden floor. She freezes – these she recognises, however, they are much smaller than she expected. She goes for a closer look but a pair of legs block her view. Julie looks up slowly.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

POLICEMAN

Can I help you miss? This is a police scene. You shouldn’t be here.

JULIE

(Thinking quickly)

I am…erm…I was looking for Phil.

POLICEMAN

I am afraid he’s out of town at the moment and I’m going to have to ask you to leave. We have a lot of work to do.

JULIE

Yes, sorry.

Julie moves towards the door as the policeman returns to the bedroom. Once outside she pauses, remembers something from the night she left Mark on the sofa.

MARK (V/O)

Julie, quick as a flash darts back into the apartment, moves straight to the table by the door. Still sat there, as it was the night before is an office file labelled ‘Heather Craven’. Julie grabs it and dashes down the stairs.

EXT. MARK’S APARTMENT BLOCK.

Julie leaves the building and jumps in her car. As she does Sam Shepard rounds the corner with an officer. He sees Julie, looks puzzled and then turns to his officer. He points at the car, whispers something in the officer’s ear and then watches as Julie pulls away.

INT. JULIE’S APARTMENT.

As Julie enters the room Rebecca is on the phone and Ethan is sat listening.

REBECCA

Wait a sec…she just got back…OK…I’ll put her on.

(To Julie)

Southport Police.

JULIE

Oh God.

Julie slowly takes hold of the receiver and begins to speak.

JULIE

Hello, this is Julie James.

Yes…what?…Oh my god!…

A look of horror crosses Julie’s face, it’s bad news.

JULIE

Yes…thank you for calling.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

Julie turns to face Rebecca. She hangs up the phone.

JULIE

It’s Karla…they…they erm…they got Karla…and they can’t find Ray.

Oh My God…they killed Karla…

ETHAN

Bastards!

Julie breaks down in tears. Rebecca is in shock. Ethan moves to her and takes her in his arms. All three are silent for a moment until Julie snaps, grabs a nearby vase and throws it across the room.

JULIE

WHICH FUCKER IS DOING THIS? WHY THE HELL CAN’T THEY LEAVE ME ALONE?

Rebecca runs over to her and grabs her by the arms.

REBECCA

Julie, Julie, stop this, come on. You reckon Karla would have wanted you to react like this? No, she’d be out there looking for this bastard. There’s no more excuses. You can’t let this bastard ruin our lives. We need you now. We have to work together Julie.

Julie breathes hard. She nods realising Rebecca is right. She calms down as she sits on the sofa.

JULIE

(Hushed and crying)

What the hell have the done with Ray? If anything bad has happened…

ETHAN

(Taking control)

It won’t have. Listen Julie, what did you find when you went out?

Ethan picks up the file that Julie brought in with her. He read the cover.

ETHAN

Heather Craven.

Is this from work?

JULIE

No, it was at Mark’s flat, he shouldn’t have had it. I don’t understand why he had it unless Jack was getting him to do some of my paperwork. She was a girl in my latest case who was a witness. She was attacked and provided vital evidence about her ordeal.

Ethan flips open the file where there is a picture of Heather. He looks at it closely.

ETHAN

I know this girl.

JULIE

You can’t do, she lives in New York.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

ETHAN

No, I swear. How old is she?

Julie starts to become more interested in what Ethan is saying. Rebecca looks at the picture but it means nothing to her.

JULIE

She’s your age.

ETHAN

Well, I don’t know where I have met her before but I never forget a face. Plus…she was really quite freakishly tall.

Julie is now convinced.

JULIE

Did you see her on the trail coverage on TV?

ETHAN.

I didn’t watch it.

JULIE

Have you ever been to New York?

ETHAN

Get real Julie – my parents can’t even afford to send me out of Southport.

JULIE

You’ve never left Southport??

ETHAN

Not for the last six or seven years no.

Julie takes the file. Puzzled.

JULIE

So you must have seen her at home. What the hell was Heather doing in Southport?

Quickly, Julie reads the phone number from the file and punches it into her phone. She flips the phone on to ‘Speaker’. The number rings and a ladies voice answers; it’s clearly not Heather.

JULIE

Hey, Mrs. Craven, it’s Julie James here, I wonder if I could perhaps have a quick word with Heather.

MRS. CRAVEN (ON PHONE)

Oh, Hi Julie. I’m sorry sweetheart but you just missed her. She’s gone away for the nest few days. She always likes to be alone at this time of year. Don’t ask me where she’s gone.

JULIE

Why does she like to be alone?

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

MRS. CRAVEN (ON PHONE)

Didn’t she tell you hun? It’s the anniversary of her boyfriend’s death.

JULIE

Oh…

MRS. CRAVEN (ON PHONE)

Yeah, she met him at a college run a few years back. So tragic.

JULIE

I can’t believe she didn’t tell me this.

MRS. CRAVEN (ON PHONE)

I think she blanks it out. She’s still very upset, quite angry about it.

JULIE

What was his name Mrs. Craven?

MRS. CRAVEN (ON PHONE)

He was called Tim…Tim Raymond.

Julie scribbles this down.

JULIE

Ok, sorry to bother you, have a great holiday.

Julie clicks off and looks at Rebecca and Ethan.

JULIE

I can’t believe she never told me.

REBECCA

Is it important?

JULIE

No, not really. No help to us. Still doesn’t explain why Mark had Heather’s file really. However, you never know what else she never told me. I can do a check on the company’s files to see if there’s anything else.

ETHAN

Then let’s do it.

INT. J&J ASSOCIATES. NEW YORK OFFICE. RECEPTION. LATER.

The office is deserted as Ethan, Rebecca and Julie enter. There’s still police tape round Jack’s door.

REBECCA

Where the hell is everybody?

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

JULIE

Holidays, day before July 4^th, no one has to work if they don’t want to.

(She motions toward Jack’s office)

Especially now there’s no boss!

INT. J&J ASSOCIATES. NEW YORK. JULIE’S OFFICE.

They enter Julie’s office and Julie switches her computer on. The three of them huddle round the computer. Julie follows simple instructions via the Internet to enter the staff/restricted area of the ‘J&J ASSOCIATES DATABASE.’

JULIE

We keep all details of clients on here now for quick reference.

She logs on under ‘JULIE JAMES’. She types in her password: ‘RAY’. Rebecca smiles and pats Julie on the shoulder. Once she is in she moves toward the client area finds Heather’s details and brings them up on screen. Julie reads.

JULIE

She first came to the firm three years ago as a result of a plea for help in finding her boyfriend’s killer. Why the hell did no one tell me this! What a wonderful firm I work for – they pay you shit and tell you shit!

Julie continues to scroll down the screen.

JULIE

The boyfriend was killed under suspicious circumstances and they never found a killer. Heather wondered if the firm could help but she was denied any assistance. The boyfriend was called Tim Raymond, a few years older than her.

ETHAN

(Pointing at the screen)

Wait..there’s a picture icon labelled BF. That must mean Boyfriend.

Julie moves to click on it but as the file opens the computer freezes and a message pops up. ‘YOU’VE GOT MAIL’. Julie clicks on the ‘READ NOW?’ icon. The mail folder opens. A picture of Ray suddenly appears on the screen, he is gagged and bound. Julie gasps, beneath the picture is a chilling message: GUESS WHO’S NEXT JULIE! Just as quickly as it opened the file closes.

JULIE

Oh my God.

REBECCA

Don’t panic remember.

JULIE

(Through tears)

I gotta get to Southport.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

ETHAN

(Pointing to the computer)

Wait…the picture is downloading.

Their focus returns to the screen. The picture is downloading slowly. Julie reads again.

JULIE

Picture provided by Heather Craven. Tim Raymond…

As the picture finishes downloading Julie’s face drops. She recognises the picture and begins to shake. The camera slowly pans over Julie’s shoulder…

JULIE

…Otherwise known as WILL BENSON!

The picture that fills the screen is that of Will Benson. Julie leaps to her feet, switches the computer off and runs for the door. She’s mad and determined to end this now.

REBECCA

Julie!

JULIE

I am sick of being taken for a fool and feeling like a fucking victim. This has got to end once and for all. Whoever is behind all this is about to get the shock of their life.

ETHAN

It’s bait Julie, you’ll walk right into their trap.

Julie stops and stares at them both.

JULIE

If they want to trap me they can, but I’m quicker, smarter and believe me…I’m a lot more pissed!

EXT. J&J ASSOCIATES NEW YORK. OFFICE STEPS.

Julie comes running down the stairs, hotly pursued by Ethan and Rebecca. Julie jumps into her jeep and starts the engine, the kids follow.

INT. JULIE’S JEEP.

All three sit silently as Julie kicks the car into action. She turns to look at Ethan and Rebecca – they look young and vulnerable, just like Julie a few years ago.

JULIE

It’s down to me to stop this. I’m not running away anymore. I am not going to let some fucker mess your life up the way mine has been.

Rebecca smiles warmly.

(CONTINUED)

(CONTINUED)

JULIE

Let’s go home!

The jeep screeches away.