Simple Dreams, act 1

Simple Dreams
SMD08


SPECIAL EFFECTS 1

Clouds part, the negative zoom focuses from space on earth,
then the Americas, central USA, city lights, and the interior
of a dim apartment. Lightening flashes and a cell divides.


FADE IN:

INT. - BEDROOM - NIGHT 2


The camera focuses on a nude couple in bed. They are making love
19 year-old Luke Seller and 17 year-old Cindy Lowmeyer are making
love.

An 1970's Elton John tune plays and slowly fades to the sounds
of intimacy.


CINDY
Honey, I'm...again...


LUCK
I know...


A minute later the passion settles and they kiss.


CINDY (with a wink)
Don't you love your little brother's graduation?
I arranged it so well.

LUCK
Yes, 'dear'. Still, telling your mom that..
if we're caught, I'm the 'bad guy'.

CINDY
Bad?... Luke, we have forever love...


The song, "Precious and Few (are the moments
we two can share)" plays on the stereo.


CINDY
It's our song! Honey, before I forget, let's leave Saturday
night open, but I'll be here Sunday around 1:00 PM.

LUCK
Sounds like we should make up for Saturday.


He threw back the sheets. Cindy smiled.

CINDY
You better marry me in a year or so, buddy.

LUCK
Finish school and your a lucky bride.

CINDY
Remind me to bring you a book about modesty, Luke.
My friend, Diane, got one for her boyfriend Skip.


INT. - EARLY 80'S MODEL VAN - NIGHT 3

It was a calm moonlit spring night as he drove her home. City
lights fade to a two-lane highway in the Missouri Ozarks.

During the fourty minute drive, they talk about
the coming summer. June was only weeks away.

LUCK
I've got Army summer camp starting the second
week next month.. two weeks near Springfield.

CINDY
I hate to think of you gone that long. Waitressing and
cleaning isn't much of a thrill. Can you see me on weekends?

LUCK
If we can take our cars I'll try, but it's 150 miles
each way, honey.

CINDY
There are some dances those weekends. I want to be with
you. I miss you when we're apart, honey.

LUCK
I'll do my best.


They kiss and the Ozark hills pass in the moonlight.
They arrive at the large red mailbox that marks her drive

A rock house, surrounded by trees, sits at the end of
a curved gravel drive.

CINDY
Goodnight honey, pleasant dreams.

LUCK
As long as you in them.

He feels something was different as he drives away.


EXT. CHURCH PICNIC - NIGHT 4

Camera pans the scene. Catholic church picnics are the social
event of the region. Homecooked meals, german style beer
gardens and rock and roll dances draw thousands.

INT. DANCE HALL - NIGHT 5

In a darken hall, a five piece rock band plays to crowd of three
hundred in their teens and early twenties.

LUCK
Honey, how long have Skip and Diane been going
steady?

CINDY
About six months... why do you ask?

LUCK
They look happy. Paul and Mary don't
have the same look.

You seem a little different, are you alright?

CINDY
It's near 'that time of month.' I've been having
headaches since April. I think 'the pill' has something
to do with it.

LUCK
I hope you feel better.

This is my camp address. Write when you can. I love our
letters. I'll phone Friday evening if we're allowed off base.

CINDY
Hurry back. I love you and miss you. Be careful and don't
get too drunk with your friends.

EXT - NEAR LUCK"S VAN - NIGHT 6

LUCK
Jerry is riding with me to camp tonight. He's ready and
I've got to go. I love you, baby, ... take care of yourself.

CINDY
Phone me Friday evening if your coming
back for the weekend. Be good.

With that remark, they kiss goodbye. Cindy goes to her
brother Steve's car and Luke motions to Jerry.

INT. LUCK'S VAN - NIGHT 7

JERRY
Cindy's look'in better everytime I see her -- you lucky shit.

LUCK
She makes me happy, we've metioned marriage.

JERRY
Dude, surely not you and the big M.


EXT. - ARMY BASE - NIGHT 8

Luke has guard duty on the weekend and Cindy isn't
home for his call. Something had changed.

Luke's alone, guarding a rows of Army 'duce and a half' trucks.

LUCK (to himself)
I liked the months we spent becoming friends and writing,
long before we became lovers. But I never understood her rush.
I honestly loved her and cared for her as a person.

"Three times together and we haven't had sex yet? This must be
love," she said that first month. By the third month, it was
clear she was going to make love.

She skipped school and we were beautiful. Then she has to say,

"Sometimes there's no blood the first time because of
exercises and cheerleading."

I knew better. She dropped her white hot pants the first night.
It was obvious she'd been around. Still, we could share all the
secrets and passions of 'first love.' She was my first girl
in my first bed.


Then he thought about their one big fight, after six months together.


Ok, so your family is on your back about dating a
'college guy'. Girls mature years ahead of guys and
you weren't shy when we met.

That John Urich two months ago was older than me. I had
a talk with him. You did more than kiss and I wrecked
a fine car over it.

If you still have to, parade a new dude past your folks.
Get get a free movie and kiss him good night. But honey,
remember your words, 'Our love is too special to share.'

"I know and I love you, but I need to grow.
There are so many things I want to do," she said.

I'm not an oger. I want you mature and happy. If
that means 'getting it out of your system'.. well,
never make it your system. Love can survive a discrete
'one night stand', but your missing nothing.

"Honey, I'm not trying to hurt us. If I don't do
things now, I'll do them later. Please trust me," she said.

Some things you don't want to do.

We've lived together on weekends, but you set it up by
lieing to your mom. Is that an example of trusting you?

"You love it. It's the only way we can spend nights
together, if that's what you want," she said.

I'm happy just to date.. for now. If you lie to your family,
you'll lie to anyone. Don't play me for a fool. I'm not
trying to break us up. I am saying that people don't trust
you, with some reason. Besides, sometimes I feel so damn
outnumbered in your county.

There is so much good in us. Don't ruin yourself
or us with lies. Don't ruin yourself or us with guilt
about things you might do behind my back.

"Who knows what you do when we're apart. I don't question
your dates and I don't like being called a liar."
she yelled.


Then don't wear the shoe! Besides, you know I'm not dating
others. Cindy, we've talked long term. We've talked about
marriage. We'll always love and be attracted to each other.
We've shared so many 'firsts' we can share with no other.
But trust is what holds people together. That's what we
have to work on.

I've made mistakes too. But, damn it, after we met I
changed. Your the only one that ever meant that much to me.

"I mean that much to you?" she questioned.

You give me purpose. For every hour together, I work nearly
two -- one to pay for the date, one for college studies and
our future. Think about it. I'm honestly serious about us
and our promises. I'm working my ass off to make it happen.

"I'm sorry, Luke. I know your right. I'm such a self-centered
bitch. It's how I am. I love you and I want to change," she said.

Made the effort, together we can do anything.

Luke stares at the trucks he's guarding -- the communists didn't get a
single one.

CUT TO:

EXT. - CINDY"S PORCH - NIGHT 9

But as those thoughts crossed his mind, Cindy is
alone with a few thoughts of her own. She had just
turned down her first date in dozens, before or since Luke.

She's siting on her porch. The stars show clearly, she unbuttons
her blouse.

CINDY
At one of the church picnics when I was almost 15, dad
caught me making it with nineteen-year-old Tim Rides.
Dad had charges drawn on him, but I talked dad
out of filing. So dad wouldn't let me date till 17.
But my older sisters explained sex and helped me find ways
to be with guys. They had protection when I wanted it.

I was going to be a very experienced woman before those
dating flood gates swung open, and not with some inbred
local. I picked Luke, those broad shoulders had dated
our homecoming queen.

So how could Luke be so kind and caring. He was supposed to
make me a woman and then stand in line with the rest.

Instead, he makes me happy. I feel secure. He loves me.

The first time was so gentle, later that morning, it hurt
so good. By afternoon, I never wanted to leave him. 'Our
love is too special to share' I had said. But I had
never meant to fall in love so soon. He gave me my
first ring. I can never forget him.

The weeks following, we made love till I could bearly walk.
When I came Christmas week, in a oral way, I quietly said
I'll date others, but I never want to lose him.

I've done many guys like Urich, but they don't care and
can't compare. Still, it feels good to see Luke jealous.
As long as Luke wants me, I can get away with anything.

So, I'm on the pill, but could be knocked up. What the fuck do
I do!? I refused Luke's class ring, so he's got an out. The
others would laugh. The folks will kill me if I'm pregnant --
out smarted myself this time.

Shit! I'm a nervous wreck!

Maybe I shouldn't have written Luke about it, but who else
can I talk to. He's the only guy I trust. Mary understands,
but what can she do?


INT. - ARMY BARRACKS - DAY 10


Mail call, Luke receives two letters from Cindy and sits on his bunk.
Camera focuses on the writing he reads.

Besides small talk, she missed her period and just wanted
to get high. She was ask out. Luke understood the feeling he
had felt in a heart beat. They had not been alone.

Religion was suddenly important to her. She wanted Luke
to be seen with her everywhere. Where the hell are you, Luke!


Luke hesitated to open the second letter.

LUCK (to self)
We both knew the risks and have talked about marriage.
I'm hard working and have never lied to her. But how
could the pill fail? She stood by me through my first
semester of college and I've CLEP tested out of a year.

LUCK
We're meant to be. I won't leave her, it's our commitment!

Other eyes in the barracks stared.

CAPTAIN
Got a problem Specialist Seller?

LUCK
Ah.. No Sir! Just a little surprised.

CAPTAIN
Keep it to yourself troop.

Captain Perry stomped out of the barracks. Someone mumbled
"..and your horse." in the backround.


INT. - CINDY'S HOUSE - TWILIGHT 11

It's Father's Day when Luke arrives at her door. Cindy throws
her arms around him and breaths a sigh. She has gained weight.
Judy, her mom, watches from the kitchen.

JUDY
Luke wasn't gone that long.

CINDY (whispers)
He was gone longer than you know.

LUCK
Baby, it's good to be back. You had me worried.

CINDY
I'll 'baby' you, smart ass. We've got to talk.
Mom, Luke and I are going to take a drive.


INT. - LUCK'S VAN - EVENING 12

Five minutes later they were at an abandon logging road
where they often parked.

LUCK
I read your letters at camp. Are you pregnant?

CINDY
Well, I know I've skipped my period. Worry sometimes
does that. What would you do if I were?

LUCK
Well.. Adam or Brenda's a nice name.

CINDY
(pause) Adam..?

LUCK
We've promised to marry, haven't we?

CINDY
Well.. yes .. but not before I finish school. There's
still some growing I want to do.

LUCK
Nature decides what grows. Surly your not thinking of
getting rid of our child?

CINDY
I didn't say that... but I don't know what to do. How
would you or I face our families?

LUCK
As a family..together.

CINDY
Anyway, it's probably just a false alarm. The body changes
on 'the pill'. I've been feeling better lately... really.

LUCK
Babe, we've done many things and made many promises. Maybe
'the guy upstairs' is calling our hand. Have you told
anyone else?

CINDY
No! Well.. my friend Mary, she and her boyfriend have been
through this before. I had to talk to someone and you
weren't around.

She really calmed me down.

LUCK
When's your next period?

CINDY
Around the Fourth of July.

LUCK
Try to stay calm until then.. OK?

CINDY
Honey, I don't want to talk about this any more.
I want to make love only to you.

LUCK
I should hope it's only 'to me'. You weren't with anyone
else in May... were you?

CINDY
Just make love to me. It's been days.


Luke didn't pursue his question. Reality faded for an hour
and they were smiling when they returned to her house.

EXT. - CINDY'S HOUSE - FOURTH OF JULY 13

Days pass and it's the Fourth of July. Independance Day
held mixed meaning that sultry afternoon. Her older brothers and
sisters are lighting fireworks in the yard when Luke arrives. Cindy
drags him to the porch.

CINDY
Luke, there's no still period and I'm throwing up
some mornings. Mom questions me about my moods and
appearance. I think she suspects!

I told my brother, Jeff. We have to do something!

LUCK
We already did. Can you get a doctor's exam through
Planned Parenthood?

CINDY
I think so. I sure as hell can't go to our family doctor.

LUCK
Ok..Ok. Just get an appointment -- my doctor if we have to
and find out for sure. What does Jeff say?

CINDY
Maybe you should ask him. Hey, Jeff.. got a minute?

Jeff came to the porch with a pair of beers. Luke spoke first.

LUCK
Hi Jeff... let's talk someplace.

JEFF
Sure, we'll take a ride after the meal. Cindy told ..

Jeff stopped short as his dad, Fred, walked through the door.

FRED
What's the huddle about?

CINDY
Luke and Jeff were going to get some more beer.

FRED
I've got another case in the basement, but I don't want
anyone getting drunk around here.

CINDY
Don't worry. I haven't had a drop.

FRED
That's good. You wouldn't want to put on any more weight.

CINDY
None of us are skin-and-bones around here.

FRED
No, but Luke seems to stay trim. Been working any hay?

LUCK
Dad and I put up 300 bales yesterday...

JEFF
Let's check on the barbeque, Luke.

Jeff gets Luke away from Fred as Judy calls everyone to the
tables. They're filled with pork steaks, baked beans, potatoe salid,
cole slaw -- the works. After the feast, Jeff takes Luke for a ride.

INT. - JEFF'S CAR - NIGHT 14

They park on a side road piled with gravel for road maintenance.
Jeff clears his throat.

JEFF
Cindy told me last year that you two were making it.
Now she thinks she's pregnant. What are you going
to do if she is?

LUCK
I'd marry her in Arkansas. I love her and we're promised.

JEFF
She's young and dad would anull it. Have you thought
about abortion?

LUCK
She'd be 18 before the child's born. It's not right
to end that life. Even adoption is better then the
tramma abortion could cause.

I have a job and good grades. We'd be happy. We want to marry
in a year anyway.

JEFF (yelling)
Get marriage out of your head! If Fred wants, you won't
be walking around. Arrange an abortion soon as you can. It's
what Cindy wants and your only way out.

LUCK
She didn't say that! What about your Catholic religion?

JEFF
Religion is for church, but this is life. Dad has drawn
charges on a guy before you, Luke.

LUCK
Interesting. Maybe I'm not that involved in this at all!

JEFF
Your involved. People have seen you two together since
last year. And your kind of alone in this county.


Luke doesn't like the direction of the discussion at all.

LUCK
I'll help her with a checkup. Maybe there isn't a problem.

JEFF
Find out for sure and do it soon. Your a good guy,
but this is serious.

Jeff starts the car. They say little on the way back.

Steve's lighting fireworks when they return and mets
them at the car.

STEVE
Did Jeff explain things? This shouldn't have happened,
pill or not. Let's hope it hasn't.

LUCK (to himself)
Right, pal -- I've been to one of your CMS frat parties.
You and Jeff screw anything suspected wearing a bra.


INT. - COLUMBIA CLINIC - DAY 15

It's 4:40 PM. Mike sits among pregnant women in the reception room.
Cindy is being examined by an intern in a room down the hall.


DR. VOSS
Mrs. Seller, you are in good health and in the
third month of a normal healthy pregnancy.

Camera pans ultra sound viewer and the image of her child. Adam's
heartbeat fills the backround.

CINDY (tears, but firm)
..Are you sure?

DR. VOSS
You can see for yourself.

CINDY
I want to see a counselor.

DR. VOSS
You can get dressed. We're finished here.

It's the door to the left.


INT. - COUNSELOR'S ROOM - DAY 16

Small room with a single desk. The counselor scans Voss's report.

MISS VILAR
Your too far along for our policy, Cindy. But I
could try a call to Kansas.

CINDY
Anywhere.. I want an abortion. It's my future.
I'm not going through the humiliation...

MISS VILAR
I understand. This is no way to be alone.
I'll make the call.


INT. - LUCK'S VAN - EVENING 17

CINDY
This is the address of the hospital.
The operation is set for Saturday at noon.
I'm a nervous wreck and this is my best way out.

LUCK
Honey, you could have a GED before he's due, even take
college courses by correspondense.

I love kids. This isn't right.

CINDY
You said you wouldn't leave me and I've decided.

But a small, yet growing, voice doesn't decide.
Cindy is good with arrangements.

CINDY
Steve will tell mom we're taking a trip to see our uncle
in Kansas City on the weekend.

LUCK
I don't like this. I won't leave you, but only if you vow
that we will marry. This life is only being postponed.

He would be my firstborn, but I can't stop what you do
with your body.

CINDY
I promise to marry you, Luke. But I just can't face
pregnancy now.

LUCK
We've made promises that we must keep.

INT. - LUCK'S VAN - DAY 18


Four days later it's Saturday the 15th and a long silent
drive on I-70 to Kansas. Darkened skys and somber moods
mark the trip.

LUCK
I know your scared. I am too. If anything happens
to you, I don't know what I'd do. I love you.

CINDY
I know, I love you too. It will be over this afternoon.

EXT. - K.C. DOUGLAS HOSPITAL - DAY 19

Camera pans:

Douglas Hospital stands in the inner city. Filth ladden brick
walls provide the latest graffite. They park under a lamp nearest
the main entrance. Black teenagers roll hubcaps to a melody of
sirens. It is not a family place.

LUCK
Cindy, this doesn't look good.

CINDY
I know. Hold me. Please hold me.


INT. - DOUGLAS HOSPITAL - DAY 20

The interior mirrors the exterior -- dirty and without life.

CINDY
Where is Room 269?

A lone security guard points to a trafficless set of stairs.

GUARD
Left and end of the hall, next to pathology.

Mother leds the way.


INT. - ROOM 269 - DAY 21

The reception room offers no comfort. Stained wooden benches
face and flank a smudged counter. Slats of light escape venetian
blinds on an outer wall. Three, with child, of African descent
compliment the decor. A single white receptionist expects
money. Cindy and Luke take their seats.


RECEPTIONIST
Mrs. Cindy Seller?


CINDY
Yes.

RECEPTIONIST
The bill is 380 dollars, in advance.

Cindy hands her Luke's fall college tuition, in cash.

CINDY
Here it is.

RECEPTIONIST
Please sign the receipt.

Cindy signs the receipt and graps the carbon copy.

RECEPTIONIST
Up the stairs and first door to your left.

The documents she had forged notarized go back in her purse.
Cindy climbs four steps and disappears behind an oblique door.

RECEPTIONIST
Don't look so glum, Mr. Seller. It will only be
twenty minutes. Oh, this the spouse's copy.

Luke collects the paper and returns to his seat.


INT - OPERATING ROOM - DAY 21

Camera pans a white room. In the center, a stainless steel table
with stirups. A tray and drum-like machine with tubes are adjacent
to the table, as is a small stool and waste basket.

DOCTOR
Please change into the glown behind the divider.

She returns in a white thigh high paper gown.

CINDY
Will it take long?

DOCTOR
No, lie on the table and turn to your side. I'm going
to give you a shot that will numb your pelvic region.

CINDY
I've nervous. Oh..

DOCTOR
Try to stay calm. There, now place your feet in
stirups. Soon you will hear something that sounds
like a vacuum cleaner. It will not hurt you.

Do you feel anything?

CINDY
Not really.

DOCTOR
Fine, we'll be finished in a few minutes.

The doctor begins his work.

A narration begins from off camera. Special effects of a blurred
child-like figure and stars cloud the camera.

CHILD'S VOICE
He knew something was wrong. Instinctively, all had been
following a natural plan. True, there had been unsettling
periods -- long periods, but he had grown and controlled
his surroundings. He clearly noticed cycles of activity
and rest. He was conscious of being from two parts, yet
complete. He was limitless, unique and good.

It hurt.

He felt new and terrible sensations -- fear, confusion,
terror, despair -- all piercing his consciousness.

A tearing sound. Something unnatural and cold. Something
out of place and purpose. It consumed and devoured with
blinding light and crushing pain. He dodged and fought
for the longest period of his life. Minutes were hours.
He screamed in silence.

Something tasted salty.

Then vapors and mists surrounded him. A chill rushed throughout
his being. Suddenly, dark was light and all was painless. He
entered a different world. There were no uncertainties or fears.
Life was no longer bounded by tissue, yet he was in a parallel
time. He could see Cindy and Luke. He knew who they were and
who he was, but Adam did not understand.


Cindy was calm. The tingle of anesthesia numbed the
operation. She did not think.

CUT TO:

INT. - RECEPTION ROOM - DAY 22


Mere steps away, all Luke can do is think. Camera focuses on
face and body language.

LUCK (to himself)
It's been thirty minutes. Why had the 'pill' failed.
Was she alright? What about her negative RH factor? Was she
hemmoraging? Could they ever forget? What if others found out?
Why would she do this?

How many years for kidnaping? How many more for ending
a life? Why had he aided her? Was she alright? She had
to be alright.

Would they ever forgive each other?

Fourty minutes past. She always chose when they made love.
Why had she chosen this? Could she bare children again?
How could this be happening?


For a moment, Luke feels her pain and thoughts. The
transference numbs his being -- she is calm. Does
she feel his pain.

INT. - OPERATING ROOM - DAY 23

Fifty minutes pass and that was it. Luke bursts past the
receptionist and rushs up the stairs. He opens the door.

Cindy is in a hospital gown sitting near the operating
table. Her face says it is over. Luke drops his eyes in prayer.
But instead, he sees the earthly remains of their firstborn in a
paper-lined wastebasket.

LUCK
Cindy...

DOCTOR
Young man, you had better leave.

Luke glances again into Cindy's eyes and leaves the operating room.


INT. - RECEPTION ROOM - DAY 24

Ten minutes later Cindy was dressed and at his side.
They kiss.

LUCK
Are you ... postponed?

CINDY(whisper)
Yes...

RECEPTIONIST
Young lady, guys seldom show or seem to care.
You better keep that one.

CINDY
I know...Luke, I love you.

LUCK
I love you. We have promises to keep.

INT. - VAN SPEEDING DOWN I-70 25

I-70 was a blur. Just leave and forget are the thoughts.
Leave the city and 'trip'. Such simple goals.

LUCK
Honey, let's get you some food.

CINDY
I don't feel like eating.

LUCK
You need to get your strenght back. Let's splerg at
a fancy mall. Just the sight of shoppers will give you
an appetite.

CINDY
Well...I am hungry.

LUCK
And beautiful, but who's counting?

She smiled and was coming back.


INT. - MALL CAFATERIA - AFTERNOON 26

The mall is hectic and the cafeteria boasts a hundred
choices. Luke knew they were still in another state.

LUCK
Please eat, honey. I'm trying to help. This tasty
looking dish is just what you like.

Luke put the fillet of sole on her tray.

What would go with this, honey?

CINDY
Well... some lemon and ..

Cindy begins to choose. Luke follows grabbing his meat and potatoes.
They find a table near the wall and ate.

LUCK
Did you know the color is is back in your cheeks?

CINDY
Well.. I feel better.

LUCK
I can tell. Your about to give me a hard time.

CINDY
I'm not... but that doesn't mean you don't deserve one.


She starts eyeing the lobster on the menu. Her uncanny
nack of spotting the most expensive item in any setting grabs
his attention.

LUCK
Ok, ok, my lunch is over. I can't afford the lobster, but
this beef is delicious.

They switch plates, finished eating, and leave.

INT. - RECORD SHOP - AFTERNOON 27

Luke notices a record shop and guides her in.

LUCK
Remember your first letter to me. You hand copied the
lyrics of an entire Tull album?

CINDY
Of course.

LUCK
Would you like an older album of theirs?

CINDY
You know I would.

LUCK
Well, let's add this one to the collection.


The cashier rings up charges to a little number called
"Thick as a Brick."

CUT TO:

INT. - LUCK'S APARTMENT - EVENING 28

Luke phones Cindy's brother.

LUCK
We're back and the operation is over. She appears alright.

STEVE
I'll spend the night at your place.

INT. - CINDY'S HOUSE - AFTERNOON 29

The following morning brother and sister return from
the 'visit with their uncle and a fun airplane ride.'

Luke keeps his Sunday date as if nothing had happened.

LUCK
Is everything ok?

CINDY
No one seems to suspect, but we should be seen around.
Let's shoot the shit downtown, maybe stop at the
Meta picnic.

Cindy goes back on the pill.

INT. - SUSIE BUYMEYER'S PARTY - NIGHT - TWO WEEK'S LATER 30

SUSIE
Did you hear that Cindy Lowmeyer had an abortion?

MARY
Sure did. She thought she was pregnant for months
and her tits got a damn sight bigger. You could
tell - she was beginning to show. Dorthy and
Diane noticed too.

Now she runs around with that Seller without a
care in the world.

SUSIE
So, the snotty little bitch had one then. Hope it
hurt. I turned down Seller, you know.

MARY
He must be hung to keep her cow-eyed. I'll
have to find out sometime.


INT. - LUCK'S APARTMENT - NIGHT - THREE MONTHS LATER 31

The couple in bed. Led Zepplin plays in the backround.

CINDY
Happy anniversary, one year already - just fifty
to go. I'm gonna make you a good wife.

We're so happy together, even the months without
making love were as good as the others.

LUCK
I read, that in some religions, when people promise to marry,
their married in God's sight, not to mention pregnancy.

CINDY
I know... if I ever hurt you, just smack me.

LUCK
Sounds like fun.. kidding. Anyway, I'm looking at a dean's
list semester. You'll be 18 soon and our folks can get off
our backs for good.

CINDY
We're incedible, a whole year together. I owe you for
the 15th. Sometimes I didn't think I would made it.

LUCK
We are part of each other. That's how it will
always be. With trust, we can do angthing.

ADAM (off camera)
One day, I will return.


INT. - META PARTY - NIGHT - SIX WEEKS LATER 32

The small town two-bedroom house takes a beating from the new
Pioneer stereo. A keg of beer in the kitchen is the center of
attention. Twenty people, mostly guys, mill about.

Throwing a party was Steve Lubber's purpose in life. He was a friend
of her brother Jeff's and he had just lost Kathy Crammer, a past
homecoming queen. Now Cindy caught his eye.

STEVE
Like the new Stone's album, Cindy?

CINDY
I like all the Stone's albums.

STEVE
You've grown. Didn't see you around much this summer.

CINDY
I was around. You don't come by to see Jeff much anymore.

STEVE
I can't hear you. Let's go in back where we can talk.

Several guys notice as they walk to his bedroom.

Inside the darkened room, they sat on the bed.

STEVE
Jeff says you've been seeing some guy.

CINDY
We date, but we're not going steady.

STEVE
I'm glad to hear that.

He kisses her.

CINDY (to herself)
I told Luke I had some growing to do.

They hold a long kiss. He slides his hand along her thigh.

STEVE
You've always been special to me

CINDY
I had a crush on you once.

She likes the attention. "Precious and Few " plays on the stereo.

She's naked. Cindy wants new love and
this is a good start.

He pulls down his jeans and there is little foreplay.

CINDY
Don't hurry.

In minutes it is over.
ADAM (O. S.)
Instinctivly, Adam knew this was wrong. He was not Luke
and nothing matched. Mom knew this. For the first time, his
world began to cloud.

STEVE
Your special.

He zips his pants.

STEVE
I'll get a beer.

CINDY
Hurry.


He motions Jim to the hallway.

STEVE
Cindy's hot and putting out. Don't say anything. Just grab
low. I'll tell Ron.

Jim steps inside the room and she tenses slightly. He gets
in bed and follows the advice. He fondles her and minutes later
they are together. Adam's world went dark and he cried.

STEVE
Cindy's pulling a train. Tell the guys.

DORTHY
Where's Cindy?

STEVE
She's feeling tired and resting.

Diane and Linda quit drinking.

Jim finished and kissed Cindy on the tit.

JIM
Your a nice piece of ass.

CINDY
The best you'll ever get.


Ron has his shirt off when Ted opens the door. All pretense
is gone. Ron drops his jeans. It was over in minutes and Cindy
watches. Adam was numb. Ron opens the door and Ted walks in.

Cindy stretches, but stalls as Ted slips out of his pants.
He jerks the covers.

TED
It's what you wanted. From now on it doesn't make
any difference.

CINDY
I know but...

TED
You will or we'll tell everyone.


Cindy thought of her family and Luke. Ted had his way. She was
still, but moved as he let out a groan.

TED
There, that wasn't so bad.

Cindy was silent. Others come and go. No one bothers to close the
door. Adam can't see through the darkness.

Dorthy is aroused and about to let Steve have his way. Then
she sees the others. She crosses her legs and slaps Steve.

Cindy stares at Tom. Then she closes her eyes. Tom feels he can't
live down the opportunity. He shuts his eyes and finishes in seconds.
Neither notice as Steve snaps a picture. Tom pulls up his pants and
walks out. The other guests return to the keg.

The music has stopped.

CINDY
My God. His little sister is in my class.


She got out of bed and shut the door. Then she turned on the
light and looked for her clothes. As she did, she looked in the mirror.

Her makeup needed a redo. Her fine blonde hair was wet and needed
combing, but she felt no remorse. She was being herself. Then she
shed a pair of tears.


The clouds never left Adam's world.

INT. - LUCK'S APARTMENT -NIGHT 33

Luke has received a letter which he can't believe. Their
date will explain the misunderstanding.

CINDY
I had sex with Steve Lubber and others at a party.
I was being myself.

LUCK
What? We're happy. How could you do such a thing?

CINDY
I know I hurt you deeply and now I kick you. I'm a bitch,
but I want to change. I wish July 15 had never happened,
I could have kept you. But you might not have wanted that.

Luke(to self)
She needed help. There was no reason. A hundred love letters.
A thousand memories. They had stood together before and would
stand together again. No woman could share what they had for
over a year and be this way. At least no one that he could
have loved.

LUCK
This can't be. Anyone can say they screwed you
from now on and be believed. That's lower than
a whore -- at least they are making a living.

Your not really like that, Cindy.

CINDY
Luke, your just too fucking kind.

LUCK
What about us, our plans, and our marriage and child?


She begins to cry. A smaller voice has never stopped.

LUCK(to self)
It times like a semester, every four plus months
she fucks me over.

New rumors began and never ceased.

Luke took her home. He had tests and finals the coming weeks.
It was all he could bear.


INT - CINDY'S HOUSE - NIGHT - CHRISTMAS 34

CINDY
We've had so much love these past weeks.
Thanks, Luke, your so fantastic.

LUCK
Christmas was good, but I've got to be getting home.


INT. - MIKE'S APARTMENT - NIGHT - SICK, BIRTHDAY 35

LUCK (to self)
The things they called her and I at the parties.

It was a one time delayed response to the abortion.
They don't know. She was only trying to cool the fires.
It was impossible to accept. But deep inside...he
had no idea what to do.

Time heals all they say. She wasn't really 18 yet.

She is the only girl I've ever loved and cared about.

But, people are basically good or bad, long before high
school. They seldom change and often it's for the worse.
In truth, Cindy is a liar and now a gang banging slut and
people know. Whore is a shorter term. And he was the 'only
man she could ever love'.

What a mother. She aborts her firstborn near the
second trimester and gang bangs the scars near the third.
Is this permanent or temporary insanity, or just evil --
and what is it doing to him, her, and them inside?

She is hiding behind her age. Yet our time together
is fantastic. There's laughter and conversation, but
when would she drop the next pyscodic bomb?

Then she thanks him for 'letting her be herself --
it's all the love anyone can give' in a letter?

Then another letter. She had an 80% on a chemistry
quizz. She ask the teacher for the correct answers.
When he gave her the answer book, she copied the
answers to the next three quizzes. And behind his
back called him dumb for trying to help her.


But both love and hard work are blind. Luke had bought his
ticket -- a year, life, or a lifetime. The difference seemed to blur.

It's not that complicated -- keep your word or don't
give your word, Cindy.

Maybe it was a one-time horror. He had to seek other
pastures if it wasn't.

Time, all they needed was time.


INT. - LUCK'S APARTMENT - THREE MONTHS LATER 36

Cindy has turned 18 and Valentine's Day marked an early
birthday in Adam's world. His spirit paralleled a new level.
What had not yet physically manifest was compensated for in
understanding. His return would come. They and he were
together.

Luke has just attended 'Hamlet'. Cindy played the queen.

LUCK
Your a born actress -- you were superb.

CINDY
You give my life joy and meaning. I love you.

LUCK
We are happy together, this is the way we naturally are.


But Adam sees new clouds.

LUCK(to self)
She was the finest actress Mike had ever seen.
Deceit was her being. It scares the hell out of me.


EXT. - PARKING LOT - DAY 37

Cindy has graduated high school with honors and
att is so proud.

She was saving for a used VW at her first full time job
as a waitress. That summer, she took the maximum amount of
tips and student loans -- plus the minimum amount of
college classes in the coming fall.

They are sleeping together nearly every night and
going steady. A marriage in the coming spring.

Then Adam sees more clouds and his feelings find Luke.

LUCK( to self)
Why am I stopped here? We spent Saturday
at the Lake of the Ozarks and our first
night in a motel. I'm tired.

I don't know anyone at these apartments.
It's too beautiful of a July day to waste.


As he starts the van, a dark green MG sports car pulls into
the parking lot. Cindy and a dark-haired guy leap out of the
convertible and run inside. Now Luke understands why he's
there and is too angry to think.

INT. - LUCK'S APARTMENT - NIGHT 38

LUCK
I phoned you at work yesterday and they said
you were gone.
CINDY
I was tired from the Lake and left early.

LUCK
Where did you go?

CINDY
Well .. I went home, where else would I go?

LUCK
I was just worried about you, that's all.

Luke watches her lie and not blink an eye. Not even
a trace of deceit or remorse.

LUCK( to self)
Damn, she's as two-faced as her mom. Judy would joke
with him to his face and tell Cindy to dump him behind
his back. And as crazy. Do I want the sadness in Fred's
eyes for a lifetime?

CINDY
What's wrong?

LUCK
What could be wrong?

CINDY
Well then, let's make love, big guy.

She begins unbuttoning her blouse. Luke bites her tit and makes
it hurt for hours.


INT. - LUCK'S VAN - NIGHT - ONE WEEK LATER 39

During the week he sees her in the MG with the same guy
again, a John something. He doesn't know how she can live with
herself. Neither does Adam. There are more clouds.

They don't talk about marriage any more. He is going
to ask a girl out, Christy Marken, his first new date
in two years.

CINDY
Why suddenly date another girl? You know I love you
and we're so happy together.

LUCK
I both work and study engineering full time, and you
could care.

I want a date with someone new, hopefully, someone
with a sports car.


A flash of guilt crosses Cindy's eyes and she says nothing.

LUCK
I want you to be honest with me, Cindy. We've shared too
much for this petty shit.

CINDY
I don't want to talk about it anymore.


Luke is amazed by the double standards she feels the world
and Luke owe her. Luke takes back his ring.

There are rumors she had a "party sex with the Boe's boys and
others" in Linn. Luke has a one night affair. Adam saw many
more clouds.

INT. - LUCK'S APARTMENT - HIS 21TH BIRTHDAY

Still, they continue to date each other every week. Mary
had been telling Cindy for a year that Luke was going to
leave her at school in Columbia.

Cindy was flirting with her brother's fraternity 'brothers'
at Christmas again.

LUCK
If you cheat on us again, I won't be around
you in the long run. I mean it.

CINDY
I just make love to you.

LUCK
Honey, you've known for a year that I can only finish
my degree in Columbia and you can 'only marry a graduate.'
I'm just starting a semester ahead of you. I'll be studying
a dozen hours a day just to pass. You know how hard that
engineering school is.

CINDY
I want us to date every week. Why don't you?

LUCK
Cindy, it's not a question of what I want. I won't have
any money coming in and you'll be twice as far away. When I get
an apartment, you can stay all you want. We could study together.

They date a couple weekends a month and stay in touch.
She visits her brothers at the fraturnity. The college
of engineering has Luke stressed to the max.

Adam is a year old and walking in his dimension when
more storms struck. There were more clouds and wrongs. They fill
his being. This time the parties were called a fraternities. He
doesn't like the part of him from Cindy.


INT. - LUCK'S VAN - NIGHT 40

Luke is studying and fighting for his academic life.
His study partner talks him back into school after midterms.
It's the day before finals when Adam's crys drive Luke
to Cindy's house. They park on a deserted logging road.

LUCK
I had a terrible feeling -- a deep depression. A
premonition that you were hurt. Are you alright?

CINDY
I'm fine... I can't imagine what you felt.

LUCK
Maybe it's just nerves. You know I blew midterms. These
finals have me climbing a wall and some frats have stolen the
old exams. If I can just pull off the next three days, we'll
have summer and the coming semesters together when you transfer.

CINDY
You've made it this far, honey. You'll make it. After
all, your the only man I could ever love.


With that remark they embraced repeatedly.

But then Adam could glipse the hortizon and he slowly
understood an old word. It was not a good word.

Luke took Cindy home and they kissed goodnight. Luke
saw a tear in her eye as he drove away. Adam saw a whore.

Luke was at the books ninty minutes later.

The morning exam left him sweating, but the afternoon
went better. Luke spent ten hours cramming the books that night.
Cindy spent five cramming the frats.


INT. - TAN-TAR-A - GREEK PARTY - FOLLOWING NIGHT 41

Camera pans:

They revel at the Greek Spring Formal. The party
is at the Lake and two years since spring lightning. Cindy
becomes a 'little sister' for her talents. She is an experienced
little engine that knows it can. It's a photo opportunity.

CINDY
Who's on first...?

For now she knew. If she could screw the many, she could keep
a whip on any one. Her future was assured. It was so easy. They
all came and went with a smile.

ADAM (O. C.)
She plunged my world into an unnatural darkness,
as unnatural as a mother that murdered her young.

Something had changed.

But even in a world of spirits, many fell by the wayside,
will dissipated by an absense of substance. Adam needed to grow.
He needed the odd mesh of mirror opposites in Luke and Cindy --
for a while longer anyway.

INT. - LAKE CABIN - DAY 4TH OF JULY 42

Finals were over and Luke passes with a tenth of a point
to spare. Immediately, he and Cindy were together everywhere.

And everywhere included a wild Fourth of July bash.

Birds were singing as the morning sun broke the stillness
of layered bay windows.

CINDY
I love you, Luke. I've never been so happy. We will
always be together. I'll make you a good wife.

LUCK
Life is good. Some things take a lifetime.


EXT. - CHURCH PICNIC - NIGHT 43

Linn was the county seat and largest city. The church picnic
drew thousands, including Luke and Cindy. Adam's spirit was
growing and his image approached a year and a half. It was
time to again seed the subconsious.

As Luke and Cindy toured the grounds, Adam planted a feeling
while Cindy used the john. Luke paused behind a corner and
overheard a Greek conversation.

FRAT 1
Seller doesn't know? Does this guy need a roll of pictures?
He's like Rice. Like the pilgram in 'Slaughter
House Five -- unstuck in time.'

FRAT 2
Pictures probably wouldn't phase him. Lord knows what
all she's done, or him, for that matter.

The laughter subsides and the topic changes. Luke backs
away. Cindy returns.

LUCK
When you visited your brother's at CMS, what did you do?

CINDY
They took me to some keggers, but you know I don't drink
much. Some of those guys are just old family friends.

LUCK
Old family friends.. Lets skip the dance and go home.

I always miss you, but refusing my ring says something.

CINDY
Let's not go through that again. We'll be together
in Columbia.

LUCK
Don't forget that, or me at camp.

He dropped her off and took the long way home.
His thoughts were about fraternities and the
coming summer camp at Fort Sill, Oklahoma.


INT - ARMY BARRACS - NIGHT 44

Cindy wrote Luke five beautiful letters during the
summer camp -- dreams of being together always.

It was the second week of camp and Luke was passing by
a poker game.

SOLDIER 1
I had some good pussy at a CMS frat party.
Cindy Joemeyers.. something like that.

SOLDIER 2
Cindy, the big tited blonde from around Osage county?
I did her too. Hell, her own brothers were Sig Pi's.

SOLDIER 1
Were you at a party in that big house east of the fraternity
building? Two kegs going on the back porch.

SOLDIER 2
Yes, Lowmeyer pulled a train upstairs.

SOLDIER 1
Damn -- and I thought I was the only one.

Luke heard enough. He thought of how she traveled three times as
far to see her 'brothers' on weekends when he needed her support
the prior semester. And he thought about the conversation at the
Linn picnic. Thirty-four months were enough.


INT. - LUCK'S VAN - NIGHT FOUR DAYS LATER 45

When camp ended, he picked Cindy up in the van. They
parked on the old logging road.

LUCK
At camp, soldiers talked about screwing you at CMS.
Do you have a general idea of how many there were?

CINDY(stunned)
I had a couple dates, but there was really only one guy.

LUCK
Your name was passed around an Army camp in another state
like a whore. Why didn't you just put it in the paper?

CINDY
I can't help what people say. I love you, Luke.

LUCK
We had something precious, something priceless. Why
do you have to fuck it away. Why do you hate us?
How many diseases do you want?"

CINDY
Don't say that!

LUCK
Meanwhile, our friends have been going steady
and planning futures. They have let the love and
fidelity develope and are engaged.


Cindy runs out of the van crying. Luke is angry and
about to toss her purse out when it drops on the passenger
seat. Pills and brushes and whatever fall out, even a notebook.
Luke glances inside and spots a pair of entries:


May 9 - Luke came to Argile
May 10 - Went to Spring Formal at Lake with Gary Rice
Made 'little sister'... too much champaign
Had fresh strawberries and back to room
Made love again...

Luke throws the items back in the purse when he
hears Cindy thrashing back to the van. He wonders how many
frats it took to 'make' a 'little sister' and how many
guys had how many pictures for the rest of how many
lifetimes.

CINDY
I'm so sorry, honey. Don't throw it all away
because I made a mistake.

LUCK
There's no mistake. For years you've two-timed the one
man who honestly loved you. The 'kindest man you've ever met'.

Does lieing and whoring mean that much to you? Is that what
we build on? We were going to have our child.

CINDY
I'm sorry about the way I am, but I do love you.
I'm older and I'm changing.

LUCK
Why, just why? I'll never forget you. Then again,
Cindy, I doubt anyone will.

CINDY
We can try again together in Columbia -- I'll be good
to you.


INT. - LUCK'S COL. APART. - NIGHT 46

Weeks later, they moved to Columbia. She lived in a dorm, him
an apartment.

They made love dozens of times a week for months
and pass the semester.

CINDY
There is so much light between us, yet only the dark shows.
All I can do is apologize. It's all anyone can do. I love
only you, Luke.

We are so happy together. It's the easiest most natural
thing I'll ever do.

LUCK
I'm happy, I want to trust you as I love you.



EXT. - ISLAND IN MIAMI BAY - DAY 47

For spring break, the couple split a ride with students
to Miami, Florida. Luke's uncle gives them a place to stay and
his boat.

It is a perfect day as they cruise the bay and anchor at a
small island. A tire swing hung from a palm tree. Surf and
sea breeze follow the beach.

LUCK
This is ideliic. Pretend it's 'wagon bridge' creek back
home, because we're going to make love on the shore.

CINDY
Suprising -- what they teach engineers today.

They make love on the beach, over and over.

Adam bathes in the return of light. Spring lightning
struck. In days, all would be ready in his prior world. It had
just been a long way home.

But that world had scarred -- a faint miscarriage of hope.

Something had changed -- the trip continued.

LUCK
Cindy, you seem different.

CINDY
Just a little depressed. It must be that time again.

The Everglades and Key West display nature's beauty.
A beauty not fully enjoyed amid the slightest of tears.
The feeling was passed to Luke and Cindy said nothing.

The return to Missouri was uneventful, except for
a near auto accident passing through Georgia.

INT. - DORM MAIL BOXES - DAY 48

A week later, a pleasant feeling brings Luke to her
dorm. He's about to walk Cindy to classes when a letter from
Gary Rice fell out of her mail. Luke stormed through the dorm
and didn't care about the rules. Her desk was covered with
dozens of letters from Rice.

LUCK (screaming)
This shit stops now!

CINDY(wimpering)
I'll write him not to write.

LUCK
Our fourth year and your in love with another guy
while sleeping with me dozens of times a week.
Are you my curse? Or just a curse? Why must you
betray us? Why are you killing me and us and
yourself inside?

CINDY
Because..... I'm a bitch.

LUCK
Your twenty years old and that won't get it. I knew
you when you seemed kind and open. You changed.
I'm the one person on earth with a right to know
why. Please tell me. You were about to say
something...

She broke into a thousand tears.

Luke goes back to his classes and studies for his life.
He also has a one night affair with a friend of a friend.

Cindy apologizes and he didn't fight her. They still remained
great in bed. Job interviews dry up. He simply makes dean's
list and graduates that May, in the middle of a recession.

INT. - DALLAS TOWNHOUSE - NIGHT 49

That summer, Luke lands a chemical engineer-in-training
position in Dallas, Texas. Cindy expects him to marry her.

Luke expects to lead a happy life.

Cindy's relatives had given him weeks of housing during his
job search and he owes her. Luke flew her there for a long
weekend. Clark and George, his room mates and co-workers,
find her attractive.

CINDY
This is the most exciting weekend of my life. The
resturants, the malls, the clubs, the flight, the love...

LUCK
We're happy together. I've missed you.

CINDY
I could go to school here. I hate having so many miles
between us, husband-to-be.

LUCK
Cindy, I haven't had a job in twenty months while
finishing school. I'm in debt to my family and bank.
I need a year plus of engineering internship
experience.

I will never again search for a professional job
without a professional experience record.

CINDY
But we love each other. I'm not doing anything to
hurt us.


LUCK
Have you checked the out-of-state tuition? My field
training has me in a different motel every week living out
of a suitcase. I couldn't marry anyone until next fall.

CINDY
What's fifteen months compared to fifty years.

LUCK
If your faithfull, we will have the remainder
of our lives together. Cheat and leave -- we've
been on this road before.

CINDY
I'll be twenty-one and you can trust me. Who else can
ever make and watch me grow into a woman?


Luke sighed as he watched her plane leave. She would be 21
and people can change they say. Her letters and actions
would tell. Meanwhile, he had a profession to learn and
places to be.


Months passed and they wrote and phoned several times
each week. Luke cared for no one else and was traveling too much
to try. She wrote of her fidelity and love. Also, that their old
friends, Skip and Diane, were tieing the knot. Cindy was her
neighbor's bride's maid.

LUCK( to self)
Skip and Diane had once been apart three months at a time,
yet they had trust. She studied and enjoyed her girl friends.
Diane didn't lie and her looks made Cindy a runner up. Diane
was younger than Cindy, yet finishing her honors journalism
degree by going to school year round. Skip was a tradesman.
They honestly loved each other.

In the end, Skip and Diane spent two years going steady.
If Cindy had kept her word, it would be a double ceremony.

Instead, Cindy had to 'extend herself' in high school and
'date around' in college. What had she left them or Luke?


INT - CINDY'S HOUSE - AFTERNOON 50

Luke drove to Missouri for the wedding. Cindy fainted at the ceremony
and could only talk of marriage hereafter.

CINDY
Wasn't the wedding beautiful? I want a six maid wedding
just like it.

LUCK
They went steady for years and made plans. They were
sexually faithful, which built love and trust.
Why shouldn't it be beautiful?

Cindy seemed puzzled and was silent.

Their letters were beautiful on Luke's return to Texas. As
usual, Luke spent more on seeing her and phoning then his own food
or clothing. After four weeks in west Texas, Luke came home for
Christmas to see his family in Missouri.

INT. - LUCK'S FARM HOME - AFTERNOON XMAS DAY 51

Luke's dad is happy. His son was making the years of college pay
and traveling. His eighth year education had fostered a college
graduate and Luke's sister and brother would follow suit. Still,
there was that girl Luke was wasting his money on.

JIM
Son, I'm proud of you. I don't know about college,
but I know you worked hard for what you have.

LUCK
Thanks dad, maybe it didn't look like I had any
direction for a while. But you did your best. I'll
never forget how you signed for my first car, but
told me it was expensive. I paid for it in the end
and you never said 'I told you so'. I respect you
so much.


A tear crossed Jim's eye.

JIM
You have your life and a woman is important. But
please son, that Cindy... My brother married the same kind
of woman and it didn't work. The car I signed for you wrecked
after meeting her. I told you then. Mom knows she's a 'skirt.'
She's not as young, but Cindy can't change.


Luke hold his peace. Dad is more honest and much
wiser than any college.

LUCK
I know what you mean.

INT - CINDY'S HOUSE - EVENING 52

The conversation hangs on his mind as he drives to
Cindy's Christmas.

It was a suspicious gayiety. No longer are the fraternity
'brothers' present or mentioned. Cindy is aglow with love
for her only man of over four years. Luke relaxes and commits
to nothing.

CINDY
This is the season where people show their love
and I love you so much, honey. I bought this for you.

Luke opened the case and gazed at a stainless steel watch.

LUCK
Thank you, honey... I didn't expect this. But just
in case.

Luke handed her a brightly wrapped gift.


"You shouldn't have," she replied.


Inside lay the the highest quality pair of leather
boots she would ever own.

CINDY
They are ..beautiful.

LUCK
I know how fashionable you are. I hope they fit.


Luke thought about the only ring she had ever accepted from
him. They had walked past a jewlry store. He opened the door.
She sized up the counters and circled a ring. It was on her finger
as he bought it. It was their third month together.

Meanwhile, her family is on their best behavior. Passing
the only daughter they have never trusted is the high priority.
Luke holds back the tears. Everyone plays a part. Finally,
the holidays are over and she is 21.

EXT. - WEST TEXAS - DAY 53

He phones Cindy.

LUCK
Your letters are great. I'm glad you and your room
mates get along so well. It's been miserable here.

You may receive some letters that aren't to cheery.

CINDY
If it's that bad, why don't you look for another
job? I know it's hard on you.

LUCK
Job search from a suitcase in West Texas? Just
six more months and I'll have a experience record.

Maybe they'll put me on a job in Missouri, like they
promised.

CINDY
You know I'd like that.


INT - CINDY'S APARTMENT - NIGHT 54

Luke flies by to see her in February. She is a physically
attractive woman, he admits. Men seldom say that about
someone they have slept with for years.

He wonders why had she made the inside so deceitful.
Perhaps nature must have balance.

Camera focuses on them making love. She is nude on
a small cot. Her heels touch the floor.

LUCK
I've only got two days in town, honey.

CINDY
Well, get started. I'm ready and I can tell you are.

LUCK
Just a few months and we'll do this every night.

CINDY
I'll live with you this summer, where ever you are.

LUCK
That is arousing. Then again, so is this.

CINDY
Oh.. Luke .. don't stop.

Adam turns three in his clouded world.


INT - MOTEL ROOM - SAN ANTONE - NIGHT 55

Cindy visits Luke during March on spring break.

After they tour Dallas, Luke takes her to the romantic
river walk of San Antone. They are simply happy together. Always
talking, always teasing, always laughing, never a loss for words.
Every sight, every sound -- they feel love.

Luke surpises her in the motel with champaign and dellie
delights. She cries with surprise. They feast for hours with
various foods and positions.

CINDY
Honey, this is the most fantastic spring break ever.
I never want to wake without you. We should get
married soon.

LUCK
I feel the same. Just four months and I'll find a way out
of this outstate Texas madness. We can't build a future
living out of a suitcase. I paid my parents back for
college. Things will be a lot better by summer. I'll
even have some vacation time by then.

CINDY
Let's make the most of our 'Precious and Few' moments.
I still cry when I hear that song.

LUCK
I do too.

When Luke brings her to her ride, he wants to keep her
from leaving. She remains the only woman he has ever loved.


INT - MOTEL, HOUSTON - NIGHT 56


As the weeks pass in empty motels, the travel wears him
down. He couldn't forget the joy they feel together. He
phones her from Houston.

LUCK
Honey, it may sound strange like this, but I miss
you and have to know - would you marry me?

CINDY
Yes.

LUCK
I'll try to be with you at Easter. We need to get
together and make plans.

But before they get together, things change.

Luke suffers poisoning in a refinery accident. He is unable
to travel those 1600 round trip miles Easter weekend.

INT. - LUCK'S TOWN HOUSE - NIGHT 57

Cindy thinks he lied to her. Luke resents what she
implied over the phone.

LUCK
Honey, I'm really sick. I'll be able to see you next
month. I can't argue. Babe, I love you.

CINDY
..I love you too...


Adam timed Luke's next phone call. Her roommates didn't
know where she was. She hadn't come home last night.

That evening she answered the phone.

LUCK
I phoned this morning. Where were you?

CINDY
I was with friends, don't you or mom worry about it.
I sometimes don't come home at night.

LUCK
I shouldn't worry? Maybe you should marry one of your
friends. Your letter's say you will live with me this
summer. Don't 'set me up' to 'hurt me deeply' again.

All I can do from here is wish you well with finals and ask
you to be honest with us. I love you.

CINDY
I still love you.

INT - CINDY'S HOUSE - MISSOURI - NIGHT 58

In May, Luke visits her on three weekends, once with
his technician George.

They enjoy each other, but she won't look for a ring
or talk about marriage. From a friend with music contacts,
Luke finds out that she had started dating Chris Marken.

Luke finds her diaries and confronts her.

LUCK
Don't break us up. It's just the distance. We've been
together four and a half years simply because we chose
to be -- no contracts, no wedlock. Through better nad
worse. That's priceless. Forget Marken.

We've grown up together. There are 'firsts' only we have
shared and can share with no other. There's a child we
postponed.

Live with me this summer as you promise. We can make
wedding plans. In three months I'll have my year of
experience and some savings.


CINDY
I know and will always love you, but I've changed my mind.


Adam knew she had thrown away more than years. This
mother always did. At least dad had a chance -- at least,
without her. Luke knew he could always count on her.

EXT - A PIPELINE IN ALABAMA - DAY 59

The company transfers Luke to Atlanta, Georgia and
assigns him to a project in Alabama. Two dozen men and red clay
make a nightmare. The sun beat down on Luke and his crew.

LUCK
Damn, we have to redo a mile of readings along the
pipeline because you screwed up the reference!

TOM
Let's fake it.

LUCK
I'm responsible and there's a construction crew
of twenty behind us. It gets done right, or you
can walk.


So it went.


At night, Luke provides the corrupt client with
dinners and booze as kickbacks to keep the project going.
But, he too was becoming fond of Southern Comfort. On
weekends, Luke studied for graduate school entrance exams
to be given in November.

They write and phone, but Cindy never visits. Luke
thinks about her and misses her in the quiet moments.
There are too many quiet moments.

INT - CHRIS'S APARTMENT - NIGHT 60

Cindy misses nothing as she slept with Chris Marken and
has Ben Boyd on the side. Same picnics, same dances, same sex.

CINDY
I love you Chris, your the only man I could ever love.

CHRIS
Your so special.

He rolls off.

Adam watches and knows he will never physically exist.

ADAM
She ended all natural things, including me. She received
the gift of life and betrayed all. Then begins the cycle
again. She will meet herself.


Joe Simon is Luke's boss and roommate. He knew Luke had
paid his dues. Florida work and a solid technician would balance
the scales. In August, Luke finishes his year of internship on the
Florida shores. Mark Milson, his wealthy technician, taught Mike
sailboating in Miami. Luke was content in August. He writes Cindy
for old times sake.

EXT - DAYTONA INN - DAWN 61

He and Mark drive to Daytona Beach the following week.
The beach is covered with mist. There was time to think in the
dawn air. Luke is tired, yet he understands.

LUCK( to self)
They were different. He wanted to build, Cindy
wanted to cheat. When she carried their child, she had
three choices -- to keep her word and marry, to place the
child for adoption, or to abort it. If she simply flipped
a coin, it would be two to one for life.

Honest marriage and raising a child wouldn't have cost
more than dating her. Sadly, he knew that if the child's
father was wealthly, Cindy would have married immediatly --
at any age -- and kept the child as insurance.

But it was simplier than that. Cindy could keep her
word or lie. The kid never had a chance.

I felt worked-to-death just dating her. What did
Cinderella have in mind when he's under contract
and she held his checkbook?

She publicly humiliates herself and us by lieing and screwing
dozens of men for four some years. Then decides he gets to
marry her. But only if he's earning lots of money and can
take her away from herself and her reputation. How can nature
allow such a whore?


INT. - CINDY'S HOUSE - NIGHT 62

Rude awakenings greeted Cindy that same summer. Luke had
shown her the bright lights and she wanted to transfer to Dallas.

CINDY(to self)
Damn, Luke was right again. Out-of-state tuition is
six times the University of Missouri. He knew I'd
bust him and I could have screwed a lot of new guys
while he was on the road.

These summer studs could give a shit and I'm alone.
The frats only take and I'm beyond Mid-Missouri,
with no man to pay for it. I'll write Luke.

But, the cost is about the same at MU in St. Louis.


INT - STEW'S TOWN HOUSE - NIGHT 63

She transfers and becomes the fourth roommate with
three stewardesses in a townhouse near Lambert field. Deme
is her favorite roomie and they share many blind dates.

DEME
You'll have some good times with Bill.

CINDY
Bill can have some good times with me.

INT - HOTEL ROOM - NIGHT 64

When the stew's are gone, Cindy frequents the bars
in search of wealthy men. She also works the Ramada Hotel.

For three figures, she delivers a lonely business
man a nightcap. She's not really a waitress anymore.

CINDY
Where are you from?

JOHN
L.A., I'm a manager with Annheiser Bush.

CINDY
This bush is for you.

He places a C note on the night table.


INT. - BANK - DAY 65

It had been a long business summer for Luke when he
started the crew in Tallahasssee. There were a couple dances at
a local bar the night before. The crew needed expenses and he
found a local bank to cash a check.

BARB
Hi, I'm Barb Kennedy, we danced last night.

LUCK
Well...we should dance tonight.

BARB
Same place, about 9:00.


INT - MOTEL ROOM - NIGHT 66

The couple are having sex.

BARB
You feel so good. How long will you be around?

LUCK
I'll tell the crew we need to recheck some readings.
That should take about two days.

BARB
Get an extra room key and I'll be waiting.

LUCK
I'm really not that kind of guy, but I
do lose keys.

Summer ends on a high note. Luke feels alive again.

At the end of the month, Enco gives Luke their biggest
project, the Hess Oil Refinery in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
It is the largest refinery in the hemisphere.

INT - RAMADA OFFICE - DAY 67

Cindy is concerned. She was walking into a room
in the Ramada when a guy she dated saw her. He made enough
of a scene that management caught on.

MR. JOHNSON
Miss Lowmeyer, your episode in the hall last
night caused a stir. Management has checked
with night staff and finds this wasn't your
first 'night cap'.

CINDY
But I can explain..

MR. JOHNSON
I think not. This is your final check. You
are terminated for "unauthorized use of facilities."

I believe the police call it soliciting.

Your number is in the computer, so I suggest you
avoid reputable hotels. How long did you think
you could get away with it?

CINDY
As long as guys are horny, Mr. Johnson.

MR. JOHNSON
Get your ass off this property.

CINDY
You act like you don't 'get enough'. Goodbye, it's
like you never existed.

Cindy didn't know much about computers, but she knew
her social security number wouldn't change. Whatever name,
computers were networks and her best 'cocktail' days were over.

She wouldn't honestly waitress again and she was a
senior. She was never going to pay her student loans. That
was man's work. She had to move quick.


INT - MAC DOUGLAS PARTY - NIGHT 68

Gary Cost is his name. A hardworking 22 year-old Mac Douglas
engineer who went to all the company events. She and Gary slept
together for a month and he was 'The only man I could ever love'.

Cindy is on his arm at a company contract party when she met
John Price.


John is a marketing manager. At six foot eight, with glasses
and graying hair, he ozzes money and security. Cindy pushes the
introduction.

GARY
Mr. Price, I'd like you to meet Cindy Lowmeyer.

JOHN
Cindy, call me John.

CINDY
Gary never mentioned management was so young.

JOHN
This woman has a place in marketing, Gary.

CINDY
Gary, would you get me a drink?


As Gary finds a drink, Cindy and John exchange addresses
and phone numbers.

INT - STEW TOWNHOUSE - NIGHT 69

The following week, Cindy tells Gary they have the right to
date around and she would always love Gary. That weekend she
balls John raw at the stew townhouse. Adam watches.

CINDY
No one has ever made me feel the way you do, John.

JOHN
We're good together Cindy. My separation with Windy will
start next week. In a few months the divorce papers will be
final and I'll be a free man.

CINDY
This is what you can expect forever.

She rises from his thighs and mounts him from on top.


INT - HOTEL LOUNGE - NIGHT 70

Breezes off the Carribbean greet Luke and Joe in San Juan,
PR and St. Criox. It is paradise. Luke mades the
top in thirteen months -- small corporation, fast lane.

JOE
Be good to Hess, Luke. We're billing them double.

LUCK
They'll get the best. I've been in worse places then
this.


There were lectures and business lunches. Then Luke was left
alone without even a technician. He hired a local when Joe flew back.

Hard work and lonely weeks passed. A three day job
in Puerto Rico lent a respite and a bit of gambling in the
casinos. Customs gave him a hard time with his equipment. Luke
was exhausted when the plane touched down back in St. Croix.
Then the Christiansted Hotel has rented out his room.

LUCK
I held reservations for the weekend.

He snapped at the clerk.

CLERK
We're so sorry, Mr. Seller. Perhaps we can make it
up to you with the honeymoon suite.

LUCK
Whatever, just give me the key.

He got the key and found the room.

It was like nothing he had ever seen before -- split
levels, flowers, love seat and stainless-glass portals overlooking
the Caribbean. It was no place to be alone.

After a shower, he caught his second wind. An hour
or two of the harmonies of Bachman and Zeman at the Outrigger
Club would be a nice close to Saturday evening.

INT - OUTRIGGER BAR - NIGHT 71

The tunes of Seal's and Croft mingled with a
couple rum specials have him relaxed. A five minute
drive to the hotel and eight hours of sleep are in order.

He pays the tab, a feeling gives him pause -- just ten
more minutes Adam thought.


The set was beginning when two beautiful young ladies sit at the
table with him. The three strike a conversation immediately.

LUCK
'Summer Breeze' is a pretty song.

SUSIE
Yes it is.

LUCK
I'm Luke and you are..

SUSIE
I'm Susie and this is Martha. We noticed your tan
and wondered if you live here? We just arrived.

LUCK
I've been here about a month. I'm a consulting engineer
working at the Hess oil refinery. What brings you to
'America's Paradise'?"

MARTHA
We're nurses from Atlanta and this trip is a graduation
present. We've seen Martinique and Barbados so far.

LUCK
Congradulations!..Would you believe I'm from Atlanta also?

GIRLS
Your kidding!

LUCK
I live in Decatur and work with Enco Engineering.


The girls looked at each other.
MARTHA
We live in Decatur at the Alpine Apartments.

LUCK
Let's celibrate. May I order you two some drinks?


They nod and three 'house specials' are on the way.
The girls take turns dancing with Luke and every one is
friends long before the last set.

SUSIE
"They don't water down the drinks here, do they.

LUCK
There's a drought on the island and rum is cheaper than
water. More twists on paradise.

SUSIE
I need some food and coffee before we get back to the Drake
Hotel. Is any place open?

LUCK
Follow me. There's a resturant and bar called Hamilton's
a few blocks away. It's open 24 hours a day.

INT. - HAMILTONS - NIGHT 72

He helps Susie out of her chair. Marty is at Luke's side as the
three some navigate the darkened streets.


They are finishing their coffee and cresants.

MARTY
We've had a great time and I don't want you driving, Luke.

You could stay over in our room and we'll do something tomorrow.


Luke isn't about to argue as Marty and Susie lead
the way. There are two beds in their room and no complaints.

Luke knew he wanted to see Marty again, in Atlanta or anywhere.


Smiles battled headaches as the morning sun came up
too soon. Luke arranges a sailboat tour of Buck Island when
he got a change of cloths at his hotel.

EXT. - SAILBOAT - DAY 73

A squall hit the thirty foot sailboat. Luke and friends
white-nuckled the railing and were very pale. Suddenly, the
sea was calm. The ship anchored and they were gazing through
twenty feet of crystal clear ocean. The world's only under-
water national park lay beneath them. Coral of all colors
and shapes greeted the snorkling tour. The threesome enjoy
every minute.

MARTY
Honey, this is the most fun we've had. It's
so beautiful.

LUCK
You'll turn my ear with talk like that.

MARTY
I can turn more than that.

LUCK
Yes you can princess, yes you can.

SUSIE
Why don't you love birds save it for the hotel
and keep snorkling.

A speedboat ride in the bay ends the afternoon.

Luke took the women to the Drake and took Marty to dinner
that evening.

INT - HOTEL RESTURANT - EVENING 74

LUCK
Try the lobster with scallops on the side.

MARTY
That's awfully rich and I'm watching my waist.

LUCK
So am I. The past twenty hours with you have been fantastic.

MARTY
You ain't seen noth'in yet. I never believed in fate, but
it must be in the Islands.


They finish dinner and Luke took her to his
room. Sea breezes and flowers surrounded them as they
gazed on the beach from the love seat.

She was so petite, she was so kind. Her blonde hair
glistened in the moonlight.

Minutes were hours as they explored each other. When
they became one, they knew it was not in passing -- it
was destined. They renewed the moment many times.

LUCK
Marty, I want us to spend a lot of time together
in Atlanta.

MARTY
Honey, you could live with me at our apartment.
Susie may be moving in with her boy friend.

LUCK
Honey, I'll help you with the rent and anything
your little heart desires.

MARTY
I'm serious, Luke.

LUCK
I am too, Martha.


Luke took her to her motel in the early morning sun.
He clutched her address and phone number as the 1:00 PM flight
passed over the refinery that afternoon. Her face was in every
window.


INT. - JOHN'S CONDO - NIGHT 75

John put Cindy up in the condo he started
leasing. She had it made, but begins to resent some of
his week long trips to Los Angels.

CINDY
John, I don't want you gone all the time.

JOHN
Cindy, it's my job. It pays for everything.

CINDY
I know, but that doesn't change how I feel.

JOHN
Join the real world, unless your independently
wealthy.

Not one to be alone, she started spenting time at the West Port Plaza.

She always kept a couple airline bottles of champaign and condoms
in her purse. Spending money came when it came.

Her home economics mid terms were no problem,
but she sensed something wrong about John. He never
mentioned his little boy, Sam. She had to find that
out from Gary, who phoned her from time to time.

And John's lawyer hadn't got the papers on the
court docket yet.


INT - AIRCRAFT - DAY 76

Luke finished another two weeks of work in the
Caribbean and called Marty each week. Her new job
at Memorial Hospital demanded odd hours and she was
studying for operating room certification. Luke changed
islands and missed some of her letters. Navy and Union
Carbide jobs keep him on the move.

LUCK( to self)
Marty never questions him.

'Return when you can. I've set aside space
in the apartment for your things. Susie
is moving out with a guy,' she said.


I trust a woman that respect her man and
acts accordingly.

INT. - MARTY'S APARTMENT - NIGHT 77

It was October 4th when Luke got back. Marty
met him at the airport and he moves in the next day.

MARTY
Honey, you're a good man. I'm
so happy in your arms.

LUCK
We've got so much. I trust you. You
may change the cut of your hair or
hem of your skirt, but please -- never
change what's inside you.

MARTY
I love you, your my man.


Jobs kept Luke in the Atlanta area for over a
month and he passed his graduate school exam.

Marty was slowly introducing him to art, the symphony,
and family friends. He never realized just how intelligent and
sophisticated the young lady was. She was not Cindy.

They are in bed.

LUCK
Honey, your a goddess. How do you put up with a
blunt hard working guy like me?

MARTY
Luke, I know a diamond when I see one. Your too modest,
but I wouldn't want that to change. Now pretend it's September
20th and we're in the honeymoon suite. I've never felt that
way before.

LUCK
Do you mean the night you took advantage of me on that
little island?

MARTY
Right, Luke ... sort of ... just love me.


Reality doesn't fade, it is only enhanced.


INT. - JOHN'S CONDO - NIGHT 78

Cindy is pissed. John wouldn't meet her family
at Thanksgiving. He said he had to make an appearance with
his wife, for legal reasons.

CINDY
What legal reasons. We've been together for months
and I want the family to meet you.

JOHN
Honey, these things take time. I have reasons and
that's how it is. You've got nothing to bitch about and I
don't need to hear it if you think you do. I've got a plane
to Houston and I'm already late.

CINDY
I just want to be with you all the time. What's
wrong with that?

JOHN
Nothing, when it's not impossible. I'll phone you
tonight.

With that, John is out the door.

CINDY(to self)
Damn men, at least when Luke had to leave, he obviously
missed me and wrote. Not so with these 'executives'.
These desk jockies aren't so hot in bed either.

I'll make up something about John when I see the family.


INT. - ATLANTA ART MUSEUM - DAY 79

Luke was struggling to keep Monet and Chanzant clear
in his mind. Marty dances about the Atlanta museum with a
history behind every picture and artist.

LUCK
Babe, Rome wasn't built in a day. So much of this
is new to me. Should I explain Maxwell's Theorem
to you again?

MARTY
Ok, I understand. It's just that my dad collects art
and I want you and him to get along from the start.

LUCK
I thought he was a lawyer.

MARTY
He's lots of things, but art is his passion.

LUCK
He's not going to auction me off if I fail, is he?

MARTY
I'm not sure. His daughter's never lived with anyone
before.

LUCK
Let's look at that French painting again.
But better yet, there's a project I'm scheduled for next
week in the North Sea.

Why don't you tell me what to see in
Britain?

MARTY
Did you really get the assignment?

LUCK
Yes.

MARTY
Why don't I use some vacation and let my older sister,
Dorthy, fill in. We could see Paris.

LUCK
I don't think I could swing your ticket and it's
during Thanksgiving, honey.

MARTY
That's alright, I have some 'frequent flier' miles
I could use. How long is the job?

LUCK
About a week.

MARTY
Then let's do it, I haven't been to Paris in years.
This is fantastic.

LUCK
You move quickly, Marty.

MARTY
When I know who and what I want.


Luke pondered that remark. Something was happening way
too fast. Barely two months and their going to Europe?

MARTY
Father's out of town, but mom must meet you before
we could leave. We can catch her before her bridge game.

EXT - DOW ESTATE - NIGHT 80

It was dark as they pulled into a long driveway.

White pillars and magnolias fronted the Georgia mansion. A
middle-aged woman was getting into a Mercedes. Marty honked.

All three got out of their cars. Luke was stunned. Mrs. Dow
is more like Marty's sister than mother.

MARTY
Mother, is the bridge game early?

LIZ
No, Joan Peerson's boy broke his arm and I'm
going to stop by the hospital on the way.

MARTY
This is Luke Synder. Luke this is Elizabeth,
but everyone calls her Liz. I've spoken of him often.

LIZ
I should say you have. Marty mentioned you were
a very special young man.

LUCK
I'm pleased to meet you, but I believe your daughter
has the corner on special.

It's easy to see why.

LIZ
My, my, do keep this one Martha. I don't mean to be
abrupt, but I must be going. I want you two over some
evening soon.

With that remark, she is in the car and gone.

LUCK
That was painless.

MARTY
Honey, she likes you.


INT. - CINDY'S FARM - DAY 81

No one is smiling for Cindy at the family farm
that Thanksgiving.

FRED
Your dating a man who's still married?
Just six months ago you were with Luke for
four years.

He wasn't a criminal and he wasn't married.
What happened?


CINDY
Four and a half...I changed my mind.

FRED
Maybe you shouldn't have dated half of state for
years. Well, I want to meet this 'separated' John.
Thirty-five year old men don't usually change horses in
mid-stream.

CINDY
Thanks for the thought. You don't seem to remember
what it's like to be in love.

FRED
I've fathered seven kids, including you, and I know
plenty about love young lady.


Cindy drove downtown to catch up on the local gossip
before Thanksgiving meal. Most of her classmates and old
dates were married. Her brothers didn't make it for dinner.
She left for St. Louis in the evening.

INT. - LUCK'S OFFICE - DAY 82

Luke answers the phone in his office as he's
about to leave.

LUCK
Hello, this is Luke Seller.

PAT
Luke, this is Pat Dow, Martha's father. I'm in Houston,
but thought I should call. Martha says your taking her
to Paris.

LUCK
Yes, sir.

PAT
Call me Pat. There's a picture of you two in her room.
What are your plans?

LUCK
We'll spend the weekend in Paris. I'll be on North Sea
oil platforms during the week, while she's touring England.

PAT
No, no son.. are you serious about my girl? I won't have
her hurt.

LUCK
..I love and trust her, Pat.

PAT
Good answer. But what do you really know about her?

LUCK
She loves me. She graduated Emory with honors. And
she doesn't lie to me. Is there something I should know?

PAT
Well... no Luke....What's your backround?

LUCK
My dad's a farmer in Missouri. I worked my way
through a BS in Chemical Engineering at the University of
Missouri and a minor in business. I've been with Enco
in Houston and here. I've been accepted by the MBA
program at Georgia Tech.

PAT
Mid-Westerner. Well.. you and Marty have a good trip,
Oh, what do you think of Houston?

LUCK
It's a boom town that better not lose the oil money.

PAT
I agree. We'll see you two next month.


INT. - PARIS HOTEL - DAY 83

Luke and Marty left for Heathrow the Friday before
Thanksgiving and checked into the Winsor in London. Marty had them
on a plane to Paris that evening. They were going to spend the
whole weekend in Paris. It was 10:00 AM when they bested the
jet lag, but when Luke looked out the hotel window he understood.

Paris was gorgious. A cloudless sky and the smell
of pastries greeted the senses. Vendors and artists lined
the park near the Seine. He had never felt so alive. He went
back to bed and and awakened Marty very slowly. Eventually,
she gasp something in French that is understood in any
language.

MARTY
First, we should take a cab to the Louve. We can grab
something to eat along the way.

She dictates while loading her camera.

LUCK
Babe, good morning. And good morning to you too, honey.

MARTY
I'm sorry, but there's so much to do.

LUCK
We always get things done. There are bi-daily shuttles
to the North Sea platforms and I kept Monday open, in
case of travel sickness.

MARTY
You little schemer. There are things I don't know about
you.

LUCK
Like I don't come in heat until spring?

MARTY
Really.... how interesting ... what were the past months?

LUCK
Hibernation!

MARTY
Your reprehensible ...


Marty knew enough French to get a cab to the museum with
a minimum of extra fare. Paintings and people spotted the plaza
by the entrance as Marty continued snapping pictures. Inside, Luke
was in awe.

The finest paintings and sculptures of the world graced
every hall. Fourty foot stone walls supported skylights in every
room. Marty was beside herself and has to be steadied.

MARTY
I was only a freshman in high school when I was here
before. I couldn't comprehend what I witnessed.

LUCK
No age can do it justice, honey.


The Mona Lisa was the finale of the hours. A timeless
beauty with a section to itself. Marty seemed faint and Luke takes
her outside.

LUCK
We'll be back tomorrow. Meanwhile, let's try some of
the French loaf sandwiches.

Her color returns as they munch and rest on a bench.

MARTY
Luke, you are amazing. You put yourself down about
your backround, yet you obviously appreciate and learn from
all you see. Few men are capable of that. You should
be proud.

LUCK
I've been raised by women and religion that said
'not good enough' in one way or another. It's hard to
rewrite the past.

'Give me a man's first five years and he is mine for
life' the Jesuits said. It leads to being defensive, I guess.

You are kind and positive and I can respond in like
manner. Don't ever change Marty. I was nearly married to a
woman whose true nature was not what she displayed.

MARTY
What you see is me, honey. A bitch in the past
is just a bitch in the past. That 'Cindy' name you
sometimes mumble is gone forever. But I've seen my
father play both ends against the middle, it's not
just the women.


Luke held her against his breast and something
got in his eye.

It was dark when they made it back to the hotel.

The 'City of Lights' was well named. They rested for two
hours and walked the streets. A stunning 'can can' review
at the Molon Rouge capped the evening. Both were asleep
in the room by 2:00 AM.

INT. - HOTEL - DAY 84

They enjoyed breakfast at a sidewalk cafe,then back
to the Louve. The feeling and beauty behind the works
of art bond the young lovers. Luke recites Marty's
analysis of various works from the day before.

MARTY
You have a kack for art, honey. And I mean that.

LUCK
Well .. you know I have an eye for beauty.

MARTY
Keep talking like that and you'll have a wife.

Marty said while looking him straight in the eye. Luke
didn't bat a lash.

LUCK
Ah.. let's see the Arch de Triumph and Eiffle Tower.

MARTY
Then we could ride the Metro and see Notre Dame.


Marty hailed a cab and they rode through the
Arch and arrived at the Effiel tower expanse.

The view from the top was indescribable.
The city stretches for miles under a fall sun.

MARTY
You can see everything from here.

MARTY
Even heaven would be pressed for such a view.


When they reached the foot of the tower, they
hailed a cab and went to Notre Dame. The afternoon sun
lit the stainless glass expanses. Splendid arches and
lights filled her camera.

MARTY
I want us in a few more pictures.

She hands the camera to a passing Japanese tourist.
He works the camera effortlessly.

After a change of clothes at the hotel, they
took the Metro to a resturant near the Central Theater.
One could hear a gentle symphony complimenting the taste of
duck and escargo. They are exhausted upon returning to
the hotel.

LUCK
I've been checking the map and we could see the
Palace of Versales before we catch the afternoon
fight to Heatrow.

MARTY
That's a great idea. I've never been there.


In the morning they made love with an intimacy
they had never expressed. As Luke checked them out of the
hotel, Marty spied a jewlry store down the block.

INT. - STORE - DAY 85

Luke looked at the souveneers and Marty picks
out a display of rings.

MARTY
This one is the one. It's what I want.

LUCK
Honey, that's a diamond. If I buy that for you
we're going to have to get married.

MARTY
I do.

LUCK
Then this engagement ring will do fine, Mrs. Seller.

Luke bought her ring as they kissed. She paid more attention
to him and the ring then the Palace. Not even the hall of mirrors
could break her gaze for long. They caught the afternoon flight
with but minutes to spare.


Luke spend four days on a series of oil platforms while Marty
collected Britain on film and phoned her mom. They left Britain Sunday,
after a Saturday about London, a night in Picadilly Square and a tour
of Parliment. Sunday night they are sound asleep in Atlanta.

INT. - ENCO - DAY 86

Luke was at work early the next Morning uploading
North Sea data to the main computer. Joe steps in his office.

JOE
Congradulations. I didn't realize you and Marty were
engaged. I guess you wouldn't be with us much longer.

LUCK
Joe, what do you mean..we just decided last week..

JOE
Luke, haven't you seen the Sunday paper?

Joe handed Luke a copy of the Journal Society section.
Luke is stunned as he reads:


Mr. Donald 'Pat' Dow, of Dow Industries, and his wife, Liz,
announce the engagement of their daughter, Martha Pricella, to Mr.
Luke Donald Seller. Mr. Seller is a consulting engineer presently
with Enco Inc. of Decatur. Wedding plans include a spring ceremony
and stay in Europe.

JOE
Luke, didn't you know she from one of the oldest and
wealthiest families in Atlanta?"

LUCK
I knew she wasn't poor.

JOE
Luke, her dad could buy Enco with his personal checkbook.

Luke didn't get much work done the rest of the morning.
Life doesn't work this way, not for him. But again, maybe
years of hard work are rewarded. Just as long as Marty wasn't
a new Cindy setting him up. Whatever he was doing right, he
didn't plan to change. He copied the announcement and writes
short letters to his family and a couple of friends. Adam smiles.


INT. - JOHN'S CONDO - NIGHT 87

Cindy didn't study much for finals. John stays at the
condo, but is always working on reports.

CINDY
John, can't you do your work at the office?

JOHN
I work hard. So does everyone else. Don't you
have finals?

He went to see his parents in Cincinnati during the holidays.
He couldn't met her family until spring when the devorce was
final.

Cindy barely passed her finals and wanted out of the city.

It was back to Argile for Christmas and
New Years. Adam smiles.

INT. - DOW ESTATE - DAY 87

Marty formally introduces Luke to her parents and family.

PAT
What did you think of the Louve, Luke.

LUCK
It was spectacular, in fact, I think the Mona Lisa
would look good in your West wing dinning room.

PAT
I've thought the same thing.

Pat replied in all seriousness. Luke could only wonder.

He enjoyed his inlaws to-be, even her brother Ron, who loved
his Southern Comfort. But there was always the thought that things
were too good to be true. Her family was truly rich and powerful.
Luke didn't want to scratch what might be under that charming
southern veneer.

Luke did some follow up work on a job in Miami the week
before Christmas. Marty flew down for the weekend sun.

Christmas dinner was at the Dows and Luke was again under a
microscope. This time it was the grandparents on her mom's side.
Bert and Blanch are from a civil war museum.

BERT
Your family fight for the South?

LUCK
All the Ozarks fought for the South.

Marty kicks him in the leg.

BERT
I figured as much. They do alot of feud'in round there.
Near as much as us Georgia crackers you know. Me and Blanch
are still from opposites out east of Stone mountain, you know.

Our kids put us in Fort Meyers to be rid of the
fight'in you know.

BLANCH
Now how would this Luke feller know all these things?


BERT
He knows possome.. he knows.

MARTY
Speak'in of fued'in, Luke and I have to leave and
pack for a trip to meet his family. I'll tell you
if the Ozarks are true Southerners when we get back.

BERT
Hill folk is hill folk you know.

LUCK (under breath)
Honey, I wish I knew all the things Bert thinks I know.

MARTY
You know.

EXT. - LUCK'S FARM - EVENING 88

Working at Enco had been extremly pleasant since the
engagement announcement. No problems with expense accounts, best
projects, free personal use of the company car -- all the way
to Missouri.

They gaze from a gravel drive above Luke's family farm.

LUCK
Look around you. All the land - as far as the eye
can see - belongs to the Seller family and others.

MARTY
Very cute. I'm nervous.

LUCK
First time I met my mom I was too.

MARTY
Get serious! I want to made a good impression.

LUCK
No problem, say your a virgin that wore out the
family Bible. Don't say that we use mechanical
devices during oral sex.

MARTY
Your piss'in me off!

LUCK
Alright. My father, Jim, will be the kindest person you've
ever met. You will be accepted for yourself. Be nothing else.

My mother, Betty, will see right through you and find
all the faults you ever suspected you had. Just be polite,
passive, and never witty. Always be religious.

My brother, Paul, will consider you rich and wonder if you
have a sister his age.

My sister, Diane, will talk to you about medicine,
fashions, and become your friend.

But never take your eye off Samson, our prize bull.

MARTY
Luke! This is important. Do I look religious?

LUCK
Almost immaculate.

INT. - LUCK'S FARM - DAY AFTER XMAS 89

JIM
Hi son. This must be Martha. Come on in. How was the drive?

LUCK
Pretty good, except for some passes in Tennessee.
Everyone this is my fiancee, Martha Dow.

The family says 'hi'. Beth, Luke's mom, eyes Martha closely.

BETH
Pleased to meet you, Martha. Luke's written us about you.
Your a nurse?'

MARTY
Yes, nursing is very satisfying.

BETH
Luke says you two were in Paris when he proposed. That
must have been romantic.

MARTY
We were blessed with the opportunity.

BETH
He was raised a religious young man.

LUCK
We should get a few things out of the car.
Is there anything I can get at the store
besides maybe some soda?

BETH
I don't think so.


Luke wanted to talk with his brother, Paul, alone. Marty
said she would freshen up.

LUCK
How are you and the farm?

PAUL
I've got a cold and the farm's a lot of work. We're
feeding 23 steers.

That newspaper clipping made Martha look rich.

LUCK
Her family isn't hurting for money.

PAUL
Everything I do here is wrong, yet I work so hard.
It's like there's nothing good enough in this world.
My classmates watch TV and I work, but not good enough.

LUCK
Little brother, your ok. Dad's has sense and
balance. Always remember that.

PAUL
Yet he's always working and she's always in the house.

LUCK
She works, but it's hell training for heaven.


INT. - WILLIE'S - NIGHT 90

Willy's was just across the river. Just a couple soft
drinks and a six-pack for measure. There are a half dozen
cars around when they pull up.

LUCK
A six-pack of Bush and the coke.

STEVE
Haven't seen you for a while, Luke.

Luke turns around and sees Steve Lowmeyer.

LUCK
It's good to see you. What's new?

Then he saw Cindy behind Steve.

STEVE
Rumor has it your getting married.

LUCK
Well.. I've spent time with a friend in Miami.

CINDY
This fall we were going to marry after five
years together.

LUCK
Cindy, could we talk outside?"

When Luke finished his purchase they walked out.

CINDY
Why did you leave me?

Cindy demanded an answer and Steve backed away.

LUCK
You had to 'extend yourself' through high school
and 'date around' in college. I was living out of a
suitcase a thousand miles away when I was suddenly
your 'husband-to-be'.

What did you leave for us?

You didn't live with me in Atlanta or 'where ever I was.'

I changed my life for you.

I wanted you to be my wife, but you made the natural
impossible with dozens of men and lies.

CINDY
That's not true.

LUCK
Pretend I have your journals. Why, I really loved you."

CINDY
What about the fifteenth?


Luke backs away. Paul gets out of the car.

LUCK
I wanted to marry you, I offered. I looked in a
waste basket. But only you control your body and
faces. You can't change.

CINDY
I was good to you! We were happy!

LUCK
I know, so why the other men, year after year? I
never deserved that, neither did we.

She acts puzzled.

LUCK
Was it your love for me the eighteenth when you gangbanged
Meta, or was it love the twentith at De Sille Apartments
or was it love the tenth at the Lake or was it a year
sleeping with Rice or Marken or..

Cindy interupted.

CINDY
I don't want to hear it! Don't forget your 'one
night stands'!

LUCK
For twenty-three months I was totally faithful -- not
even a date! For what?

A known abortionist? A party whore?

Whether you were 'with child' or not, I never left you.
You know that, and that's all a man can do.

Since our seventh month, I wrote that you were all I wanted.
You carried my child and wrote you would be my wife. You were
life itself to me.

But after Lubber, in any crowd, I slowly began to wonder how
many my 'wife-to-be' had slept with. So my pride took a couple
women. My fidelity hadn't worked.

But now, finally, I have found someone I can trust. It's something
you took away from us. And you had not right to.


Both brothers went back to their cars.

CINDY
I'll always love you.

LUCK
It's our right, but so was trust.

He sighed and touches her fine blonde hair a last time.

When Paul and Luke got back dinner was served. After an
awkward evening of Ozarks and City, Luke slept on the couch.

Tears are caked on his eyelashes in the morning.


INT. - SELLER GRANDMA'S - DAY 91

His entire family -- aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces --
were at grandma's the next day. Some had expected Cindy and
it was slow going for Marty at first. Then Annie, a nurse,
starts talking shop with Marty.

ANNIE
I work in the Emergency Room at St. Mary's, a three
hundred bed hospital here in town. Sometimes it's
not easy, the auto wreck's are the worst.

MARTY
I know. I just started assisting in the OR and we
had auto accident. Male, 20, with four broken ribs
and a ruptured spleen. We saved him, but it was a
tough two hours.

UNCLE ALLEN
We're from Chattanoga, Tennessee and it's good to see
another southern belle here.


The dinner and everything else went well after that.

LUCK
Marty and I are going to Columbia before we have to
get back. We'll set the date and call. With Marty, your
grand children might even be more attractive then me.

RELATIVES
I should hope so.

INT. - MOTEL - NIGHT 92

MARTY
I understand what you said in Paris.

LUCK
I understand a few things about your family too.


Mizzo suprised her. It was many times the size of Emory.
So did things they did when the motel door closed.

MARTY
Is that all you think about? We might as well
be married.

LUCK
Would you like that?

MARTY
You know I would.

LUCK
Then let's grab a justice of the peace. We've got
five days.

MARTY
Your serious, aren't you.

LUCK
I've seen too many good things go too wrong. I know
who I want and what I want.

It will be our secret, unless someone interfers.

MARTY
After St. Croix and Paris, why not?


INT. - CITY HALL - DAY 93

JUSTICE THOMPSON
Everything seems in order.

Do you, Mathew Donald Seller, take Martha Pricella
Dow to be your lawfully wedded wife?

LUCK
I do.

JUSTICE THOMPSON
And do you, Martha Pricila Dow, take Mathew Donald
Seller to be your lawfully wedded husband?

MARTY
I do.

JUSTICE THOMPSON
THen by hte powers invested in me by the state of
Missouri, I now pronounce you man and wife.


INT. - MOTEL - NIGHT 94

Days in bed being newly weds.

MARTY
My father, Donald, would shoot us if he knew.

LUCK
Your father, or grandfather, might shoot me anyway,
Mrs. Seller.

MARTY
I can't keep this a secret, honey. I'm just so
happy..

LUCK
We can do anything we decide to do. We're living
together and there's nothing wrong with renewing our vows.
Besides, wouldn't you like to know who might not be on our
side?

MARTY
Your not as innocent as 'the Ozarks', are you?

LUCK
I'm just securing my faultless innocence.


INT. - STEW'S TOWNHOUSE - NIGHT 95

CINDY
John pissed me off and stayed with his family through
New Year's, so I celebrated New Year's EVE West Port
Plaza. I picked up three hundred in tips.

DEME
You better be careful or you'll be caught again.

CINDY
Well.. John's dragging his feet. He refuses to met my
family and keeps making excuses. I ball his brains out,
but he keeps stalling, yet he keeps me in the condo."

DEME
Sounds like he's guilty about leaving his wife
or he's messing around. Give him a few cold winter nights
and I'll find some guys for us to double with.

If that doesn't bring him around, you can always say
your pregnant and see what he does."

CINDY
Right! I going to get a ring or find better.

EXT. - STEW'S TOWN HOUSE - 96

Cindy wasn't at the condo several nights in February
and John didn't like it. A feeling gave him pause outside
Cindy and Deme's old townhouse one March night. He had
returned from New York a day early. Cindy was arm-in-arm
with a younger man and didn't come to the condo that night.
Adam smiled.

The next evening John arrives at the condo as expected.

JOHN
Wendy fought the devorce, but it's final next
week. However, we need some time to let things settle.

CINDY
I'm graduating in less than two months and now
I can be your wife.

JOHN
We can work out anything with trust, but it may
take a while.

CINDY
This may not be a good time to say it, but I missed
my period.

JOHN (stareing)
See a doctor and bring back the results. We must be sure..

I'd like to meet your family at Easter, but there's a
problem in the LA office and I may not be back by then.
I'll phone if I can make it.

INT. - CINDY'S FARM - NIGHT 97

The following weekend Cindy went home for Easter. She didn't
think she needed to see a doctor. Cindy said that John was out of
town, but would meet them soon. Friends said that Luke had married.
She looks at some pictures and journals in the attic. Then she
begins to cry.

CINDY (to self)
We loved each other and shared a thousand 'firsts'. I fucked
it all away. Luke knows me better than anyone, yet had more
kindness and patience and love then all the others I've met
combined. I abort our child and then him. I'm such a bitch.

Hours later Judy found Cindy and understood the tears.

JUDY
There are plenty of fish in the sea.

INT. - JOHN'S CONDO - 98

When Cindy returned Sunday night, the condo was empty,
except for boxes of her things. Clipped to the top box was a typed
slip of paper:

The lease is up -- I never want to see you again.

Cindy is stunned and bursts into tears.

CINDY(to self)
It's not true. I had him. I was good to him.
Nothing's perfect. Why would he do this? What happened?
Did he see me with someone?

Promises aren't really literal.

I have a right to know why!


Finally, she started checking boxes to see if anything was
missing. In the third box she found her pocket planner and quickly
checked the notations that only she could decipher. There were three,
one hundred dollar bills at the bottom of the box.

INT. - STEW'S TOWNHOUSE - NIGHT 99

During the next month she moved back with Deme and painfully
tried to contact John. He was never in the office or he was
at a meeting.

She wanted an explaination and apology. Finally, Gary Cost phoned her.

GARY
John and his wife Windy are back together and he doesn't
want to see you, in fact, no one at Mac Douglas does --
including me.

To top it off, a pilot gave me pictures of you screwing
his fraternity. You can obviously find new friends in any
bar, hotel, or townhouse. This is goodbye.

The receiver clicks.

CINDY
Well, if they don't like the way I am, they don't
have to be around me. Why did I drive Luke away?

INT. - EDDIE'S - NIGHT 100

School took on new meaning as Cindy crammed for finals.
She became another degreed unemployed fashion merchandiser. It would
be a year before loan payments began, but she had spent most of her
money on clothes and a little Chevy convertible. She found a new set
of bars and dated or barhopped most nights.

To make ends meet, she became a part-time stripper at Big
Eddy's in East St. Louis.

CUSTOMER
Hey baby, nice set of jugs.. snatch looks good too.

CINDY
For a hundred after work...you can find out how good.

CUSTOMER
I'll meet you at the door.

The money and attention were plentiful, but she got the clap
by month's end. Fortunately, the school clinic still took
care of that.

CINDY( to self)
"I'm 22 and need the wealth and leisure only a rich husband
can provide. There is so much free time without classes and the
stews are gone too often.



INT. - SELLER'S - NIGHT 101