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Little Secrets and Lies
by Alice E. Wood (alicewood2@hotmail.com)

Rated: PG-13   Genre: Drama   User Review: ****


This screenplay is copyrighted to its author. All rights reserved. This screenplay may not be used or reproduced without the express written permission of the author.



LITTLE SECRETS AND LIES

FADE IN:

INT. MAIA'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Minimal light shines through the window as loud rock music
PLAYS from a CD player perched on an oak dresser.

MAIA (16), a pale girl with beautiful shoulder-length blonde
hair, sits in front of her mirror putting on makeup...She
wears jeans and a tight halter.

Maia applies a final touch of lip gloss, smatters her lips
and looks up at a clock on the wall, which reads 7:30.

She stands, turns off the CD player, then grabs her purse
off the bed, turns off the light, and leaves.
                                                            
 
INT. SHEPPARD'S FRONT HALLWAY - NIGHT
                                                            
Maia comes down the stairs into the front hall, takes her
jacket off a hook near the front door and puts it on.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Mum, I'm off.
                                                            
AVA (32) appears in the hall, with a tea towel over her
shoulder and her sleeves rolled up.

Her blonde hair is tied in a messy pig-tail...She looks
tired.
                                                            
                       AVA
Where are you off to?
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (sharply)
To Kevin's party. I told you about
it like a week ago.
                                                            
                       AVA
Is Kevin that Year-Twelve kid?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Yeah, so?
                                                            
                       AVA
      (angry and
       concerned)
You know I don't like that boy.
                                                            

2.

Maia gives Ava an annoyed look.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Jeez, Mum, it's just a party! I'll
probably only see him for five
minutes, anyway.
                                                            
                       AVA
Are his parents going to be home?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Of course! God, Mum, I'm not
stupid!
                                                            
                       AVA
Don't speak to me that way,
please.
                                                            
Maia relaxes, she knows not to push Ava's patience any
further.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I'm sorry, Mum. It's just, you
have to start trusting me sooner
or later.
                                                            
                       AVA
      (calmer now)
I know. I just worry, that's all.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Well don't, okay? Matt's coming
also, so I'll be alright.
                                                            
She looks anxiously at her watch.
                                                            
                       MAIA (CONT'D)
Sorry Mum, gotta go. I'm meant to
meet Matt in five minutes.
                                                            
Maia opens the front door to leave.
                                                            
                       AVA
Make sure you're back by 11:30.
                                                            
Maia turns, giving Ava a pleading look.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Oh, Mum. It's Friday night!
                                                            
Ava relents.
                                                            

3.

                       AVA
Fine, twelve and no later.
                                                            
Maia smiles happily.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Thanks, Mum. 'Bye.
                                                            
She leaves, closing the door behind her...Ava sighs and
shakes her head.
                                                            
 
EXT. KEVIN'S BACKYARD - NIGHT
                                                            
The yard is softly lit from the back-porch lights, and there
are Christmas lights strung along the fence and
clothes-line.

Loud rock music PLAYS from two speakers placed in the open
back window.

Groups of TEENS stand around talking, most holding alcoholic
drinks.

Maia stands with MATT, KATIE and ANNA just outside the back
door.

Katie and Anna both wear jeans and clingy tube tops, and
their hair hangs loose on their backs.

Matt, in jeans and a casual shirt, has bushy, uncombed brown
hair.

The three girls hold beers, while Matt holds a can of soda.
                                                            
                       KATIE
How cute does Kevin look tonight!
                                                            
                       ANNA
Totally.
                                                            
Maia nods in agreement.
                                                            
                       KATIE
Maia, he was so checking you out
before...
                                                            
                       ANNA
Yeah, he really digs you.
                                                            
                       MATT
Ah, he digs any chick he thinks he
can get into bed with--
                                                            

4.

Maia hits Matt playfully on the arm.
                                                            
                       MAIA
What would you know?
                                                            
KEVIN joins them, in jeans and a striped shirt...He leans
close to Maia, who looks pleased to see him.
                                                            
                       MAIA (CONT'D)
Hey, great party.
                                                            
                       ANNA
And a great weekend for your
parents to be away...
                                                            
                       KEVIN
Yeah.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Hey, you got any other music?
                                                            
                       KEVIN
Sure...Want to come in and look?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Okay.
                                                            
Kevin leads Maia into the house.
                                                            
 
INT. KEVIN'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Maia enters with Kevin, who turns on the light...The
furnishings include a double bed, a desk, and a bookshelf.

The sound of MUSIC comes faintly from outside.
                                                            
                       KEVIN
My CDs are over there.
                                                            
He points toward a large stack of CDs in the corner...Maia
goes over, kneels down and shuffles through them. She is
impressed.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Wow, you sure have a lot--
                                                            
Kevin, after closing the door, comes and kneels next to her.
                                                            
                       KEVIN
Yeah, my brother knows where to
pick 'em up cheap.
                                                            

5.

                       MAIA
Cool.
                                                            
Kevin looks at her, smiling.
                                                            
                       KEVIN
No, you're cool.
                                                            
Maia looks sweetly at Kevin, who leans in and gives her a
long, warm kiss.
                                                            
 
INT. KEVIN'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Maia sits on the edge of Kevin's bed, slipping on her shoes,
while Kevin stands putting on his shirt.

He walks to the door, with Maia following.

Kevin stops and turns to face her, looking rather pleased
with himself.
                                                            
                       KEVIN
You were great, Maia.
                                                            
Maia smiles at this, saying nothing...Kevin kisses her
again, and they leave the room.
                                                            
 
EXT. KEVIN'S BACKYARD - NIGHT
                                                            
Maia rejoins Katie and Anna, who look bored, then liven up
when they see her. Matt is nearby, leaning on a porch
railing.

Maia appears relaxed and cool.
                                                            
                       KATIE
So...Tell us about it.
                                                            
                       MAIA
About what? There's nothing to
tell.
                                                            
                       ANNA
Oh? Then what took you guys so
long?
                                                            
                       MAIA
There were a lot of CDs to look
through.
                                                            

6.

                       KATIE
Yeah, sure.
                                                            
Katie winks suggestively at Maia.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Seriously, he has like a whole
stack of them. Now would someone
please get me a drink, I'm dying
of thirst here.
                                                            
                       ANNA
Sure.
                                                            
                       KATIE
We'll be back in a jiffy.
                                                            
Katie and Anna strut off to the kitchen...Matt comes up to
Maia.
                                                            
                       MATT
You're such a bad liar.
                                                            
                       MAIA
So?
                                                            
                       MATT
So, they wont stop until they find
out what really happened.
                                                            
                       MAIA
What do you think happened?
                                                            
                       MATT
I don't know...Did he finally ask
you out?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Well, I think so...If he kisses
you, does that mean he wants to go
out with you?
                                                            
                       MATT
How am I supposed to know?
      (grins)
He's never kissed me.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Smart-aleck...I just thought,
since you're a guy. maybe you
could tell me something...
                                                            

7.

                       MATT
In case you hadn't noticed, Maia,
girls aren't exactly chasing after
me.
                                                            
                       MAIA
What about Anna? She likes you.
                                                            
                       MATT
If only the feeling was mutual--
                                                            
 
INT. AL'S CAFE - DAY
                                                            
The cafe is half-full with PEOPLE chatting loudly and
drinking coffee...Matt and Maia sit at a table by the
window.

Maia's head rests on her left arm, her right hand is curled
around a cup of coffee. Matt, as usual, drinks soda.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I've got a splitting headache.
                                                            
                       MATT
That'll teach you to drink too
much--
                                                            
                       MAIA
Hasn't before.
                                                            
                       MATT
Well it should. There are so many
consequences in life.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Whatever.
                                                            
The cafe door opens, setting off the door CHIMES.

SIMON enters, covered in dust, and walks up to the counter.

AL, the cafe owner, appears from the back room...At the
sight of Simon he gets excited.
                                                            
                       AL
Simon! My God, man, how long has
it been? Seventeen years?
                                                            
Matt looks on, curious.
                                                            
                       MATT
Who do you think that is?
                                                            

8.

Maia glances over, then shrugs.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I've no idea.
                                                            
She puts her head back down.
                                                            
 
INT. MAIA'S BEDROOM - DAY
                                                            
Maia lies on her freshly-made bed, talking to Katie on a
cordless phone.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Kevin came over today, thank
goodness my mum was out...He was
sweet, he said that he wouldn't be
able to live if I didn't go out
with him.
                                                            
                       KATIE (O.S)
Cute and sweet? God, Maia, you
are so lucky!
      (pauses)
So when are you guys going out?
                                                            
                       MAIA
This Saturday. He's invited me
over to watch a movie.
                                                            
                       KATIE (O.S)
That's cool.
                                                            
                       MAIA
So is he...
                                                            
                       KATIE (O.S)
So have you guys, um, done it yet?
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (grinning)
Wouldn't you like to know!
                                                            
 
INT. SHEPPARD'S LOUNGEROOM - DAY
                                                            
Ava and Maia are sitting on an old comfy couch, dressed in
warm trackies and jumpers, watching a movie.

They are eating popcorn.
                                                            
                       AVA
So what are you up to, tonight?
                                                            

9.

                       MAIA
Going to Kevin's. He asked me over
to watch a movie.
                                                            
Ava stares unhappily at Maia.
                                                            
                       AVA
I don't like that boy, Maia. He's
trouble.
                                                            
                       MAIA
No he's not, Mum. He's sweet, and
besides, he must really like me to
ask me out.
                                                            
                       AVA
Oh? Why do you say that?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Well, look at me, I'm not exactly
the prettiest girl around--
                                                            
                       AVA
Maia, that's not true. I think
you're very pretty.
                                                            
The doorbell RINGS.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I'll get it.
                                                            
Maia gets up and goes to open the door...Simon is there on
the front porch, looking nervous.

He appears a little shocked to see Maia.
                                                            
                       MAIA (CONT'D)
Can I help you?
                                                            
                       SIMON
Yes, I was hoping Ava Sheppard was
in?
                                                            
Maia calls out to Ava, who is still in the loungeroom.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Mum, it's for you.
                                                            
Ava comes into the front hall.

At the sight of Simon she stops dead...Her shocked
expression worries Maia.
                                                            

10.

                       MAIA (CONT'D)
Mum?
                                                            
                       SIMON
      (smiling)
Hello, Ava.
                                                            
Ava, recovering from the initial shock, stares at Simon.
                                                            
                       AVA
Maia, go into the lounge, please.
                                                            
Maia obeys...Ava turns on Simon, furious.
                                                            
                       AVA (CONT'D)
What the hell are you doing here?
                                                            
At Ava's unexpected anger, Simon's smile disappears, and he
looks unsure of himself.
                                                            
                       SIMON
I've moved back here, thought I'd
visit some old friends...
      (thoughtfully)
I see you have a daughter. How old
is she?
                                                            
Ava's anger turns to panic.
                                                            
                       AVA
Sixteen.
                                                            
Growing realization on Simon's face...
                                                            
                       SIMON
Oh, I see.
                                                            
Ava glances back to make sure Maia is out of ear-shot.
                                                            
                       AVA
Listen, can we talk later? Perhaps
tonight at 7:30?
                                                            
                       SIMON
Sure, I'll come back.
                                                            
                       AVA
Thank you.
                                                            
Ava sighs and closes the door, leaning against it for
support.

Maia comes out of the loungeroom.
                                                            

11.

                       MAIA
Who was that? I saw him at the
cafe earlier, I think...
                                                            
Ava composes herself and gives Maia a fake smile.
                                                            
                       AVA
Oh, no one. Just an old friend.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (nodding
       skeptically)
If you say so, Mum.
                                                            
 
INT. KEVIN'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
The room is dimly lit by a lamp on a bedside table.

Kevin and Maia are in bed together, only a blanket covering
them...Maia's head rests on Kevin's shoulder.

Kevin grins at her.
                                                            
                       KEVIN
So, am I the best you've ever had?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Yes, and the only one, too.
                                                            
Kevin's smile widens.
                                                            
                       KEVIN
Even better.
                                                            
 
EXT. SCHOOL YARD - DAY
                                                            
An overcast day at lunch-time...Maia, Matt, Katie and Anna
sit at the back of the school oval.

The girls watch with great interest as a group of boys,
including Kevin, plays football, but Matt doesn't share
their enthusiasm.
                                                            
                       MATT
What's the big deal? Anyone can
kick a football.
                                                            
                       KATIE
We're not checking out the kicks,
we're checking out the muscles.
You could do with some, Matty boy!
                                                            

12.

                       MATT
Whatever.
                                                            
                       KATIE
Maia, you never answered my
question the other day...
                                                            
                       MAIA
Oh? What question was that?
                                                            
                       KATIE
Have you and Kevin ever...you
know.
                                                            
                       ANNA
Oh yes, do tell.
                                                            
Matt gives Maia a worried look.
                                                            
                       MATT
Oh, come on Maia, surely not with
Kevin...He's a sleeze-ball.
                                                            
Maia turns on Matt angrily.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Surely I can make that decision
for myself!
                                                            
Maia gets up and walks off, joined by Kevin, who is hot and
sweaty from the football game...Kevin takes her in his arms
and kisses her.

Katie notices Matt's look as he watches them.
                                                            
                       KATIE
Watch it, Matt, or people might
think you're jealous.
                                                            
                       MATT
Like I even care--
                                                            
 
INT. SHEPPARD HOME - DAY
                                                            
KITCHEN
                                                            
The morning sun pours through the windows, it is 7:15am.

Ava sits at the kitchen table reading the paper. A glass of
orange juice and a plate of toast sit in front of her.
                                                            

13.

IN THE UPSTAIRS HALL
                                                            
Maia dashes from her room to the bathroom, slamming the
door.
                                                            
IN THE BATHROOM
                                                            
Maia, throwing up...
                                                            
KITCHEN
                                                            
Ava is almost done with breakfast...She looks up and sets
down the paper as Maia enters.
                                                            
                       AVA
Ah, there you are...
                                                            
                       MAIA
I don't feel so good.
                                                            
                       AVA
I heard. Why don't you have some
breakfast, it might make you feel
better.
                                                            
Maia takes one look at Ava's breakfast, looks sick again,
and makes a run for the downstairs bathroom.
                                                            
 
INT. MAIA'S BEDROOM - DAY
                                                            
The curtains are closed and the room is dark.

Maia lies on her bed in a fetal position, her blanket pulled
up to her neck.

Ava knocks on the door and enters, then sits down next to
Maia on the bed.
                                                            
                       AVA
Maybe I should call the doctor.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I'm fine. It's probably only one
of those 24-hour bugs.
                                                            
                       AVA
Are you sure?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Yes, I am...I think I just need to
sleep it off.
                                                            

14.

                       AVA
Okay.
                                                            
Ava kisses Maia on the head and leaves the room, closing the
door behind her.

Maia closes her eyes and tries to sleep.
                                                            
 
INT. SHEPPARD'S KITCHEN - DAY
                                                            
Late afternoon...Ava and Simon sit at the kitchen table,
each with a cup of coffee.

They look up in surprise as Maia enters the kitchen...Maia
is equally suprised to see Simon.
                                                            
                       AVA
I see you're feeling better.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Yes.
                                                            
Simon stands hurriedly.
                                                            
                       SIMON
I better go.
                                                            
                       AVA
I'll walk you out.
                                                            
Ava and Simon leave...Maia sits at the table, and in a
moment the front door CLOSES o.s.

Ava walks back into the kitchen.
                                                            
                       MAIA
What was that about?
                                                            
Ava avoids Maia's eyes.
                                                            
                       AVA
Can't two old friends catch up?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Sure, Mum, but you've been acting
queer since he showed up...There's
something you're not telling me.
                                                            
At this Ava looks away guiltily, and says nothing.
                                                            
 

15.

INT. SHEPPARD'S KITCHEN - DAY
                                                            
Ava is at the sink washing out her breakfast dishes.

Maia enters the kitchen in her school uniform, her bookbag
slung over her shoulder.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Well, I'm off.
                                                            
                       AVA
What about breakfast?
                                                            
                       MAIA
I'm not very hungry.
                                                            
Ava becomes serious.
                                                            
                       AVA
I heard you throwing up again this
morning.
                                                            
Maia doesn't answer, and avoids eye contact with Ava.
                                                            
                       AVA (CONT'D)
You know, if there's something
wrong you can tell me.
                                                            
Maia becomes hostile.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Nothing's wrong! Stay off my back,
would you?
                                                            
                       AVA
      (getting impatient)
Maia, you've been throwing up
every morning for the past two
weeks. I am not stupid--
                                                            
                       MAIA
I told you, nothing's wrong.
                                                            
                       AVA
Well then see a doctor.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Fine, if it means you'll stop
hassling me.
                                                            

16.

Maia storms out of the kitchen and SLAMS the front door on
her way out.

Ava just sighs.
                                                            
 
EXT. SCHOOL YARD - DAY
                                                            
It is a sunny but cold day...Maia, Matt, Katie and Anna are
walking around the school oval during recess.
                                                            
                       MATT
So where's Lover Boy today?
                                                            
                       KATIE
      (sharply)
Matt!
                                                            
                       MAIA
He's off with his mates somewhere.
                                                            
                       MATT
So his mates are more important
than his girlfriend, are they?
What a prick.
                                                            
Maia turns on him angrily.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Why do you hate him so much,
anyway?
                                                            
                       MATT
Because he's a loser, Maia. I
don't wont you to get hurt.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Right, like I can't look after
myself--
                                                            
Maia staggers, feeling lightheaded...Matt's anger turns to
concern.
                                                            
                       MATT
Maia, are you okay?
                                                            
Maia regains control of herself, still angry.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I'm fine!
                                                            

17.

                       KATIE
I don't know, Maia, you look a
little pale to me--
                                                            
                       MAIA
Damnit, why can't you all just
leave me the hell alone?
                                                            
Maia storms off toward the school buildings, leaving Matt,
Katie, and Anna standing there, stunned by her outburst.
                                                            
 
INT. DOCTOR LEIGHMAN'S OFFICE - DAY
                                                            
Maia is sitting on the exam table doing up the last buttons
of her school dress, while DR. LEIGHMAN sits at his desk
typing something into his computer.
                                                            
                       MAIA
So, Doc, can I give my mum the all
clear?
                                                            
Dr. Leighman turns to face Maia, his expression serious.
                                                            
                       DR. LEIGHMAN
Maia, I would like you to take a
test for me.
                                                            
                       MAIA
A test for what?
                                                            
                       DR. LEIGHMAN
Pregnancy.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (shocked)
You think I might be pregnant?
                                                            
                       DR. LEIGHMAN
Well, with the symptons you've
described, over a period of time,
I'm almost certain you are.
                                                            
Maia pauses to think. She looks worried.
                                                            
                       MAIA
How far along do you think I am?
                                                            
                       DR. LEIGHMAN
I'd say at least six weeks. We
wont know for certain until I run
a few more tests.
                                                            

18.

Maia nods quietly.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Dr. Leighman?
                                                            
                       DR. LEIGHMAN
Yes, Maia?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Can you please not tell my mum?
It's just I want it to come from
me, in my own time. I need the
thought to sink in before I say
anything.
                                                            
                       DR. LEIGHMAN
I understand, Maia, but I wouldn't
wait too long, soon you'll be
starting to show.
                                                            
 
INT. KEVIN'S LOUNGEROOM - DAY
                                                            
Kevin is sprawled on an old beanbag chair, watching sports
on T.V., still dressed in his school uniform.

The doorbell RINGS.

Kevin turns the TV off and answers the door, surprised and
happy to see Maia.

Maia looks nervous and scared.
                                                            
                       KEVIN
Maia!
                                                            
                       MAIA
Can we talk?
                                                            
                       KEVIN
Yeah, come in. My parents have
gone out for the evening.
                                                            
Maia enters and Kevin shuts the door. He leads her to the
couch and they sit.

Kevin puts an arm around Maia and tries to kiss her, but she
pulls away.
                                                            
                       KEVIN
What's wrong, babe?
                                                            
Maia takes a deep breath.
                                                            

19.

                       MAIA
I'm pregnant.
                                                            
Kevin jumps to his feet, suddenly angry.
                                                            
                       KEVIN
You slut!
                                                            
Maia is shocked. She stands up too.
                                                            
                       MAIA
But...
                                                            
                       KEVIN
I give you my time, and you repay
me by sleeping around with other
guys?
                                                            
                       MAIA
That's not true--
                                                            
                       KEVIN
And now you try to trick me into
thinking it's mine!
                                                            
                       MAIA
But it is yours!
                                                            
Kevin slaps Maia across the face, splitting her lip.
                                                            
                       MAIA (CONT'D)
You bastard!
                                                            
Maia runs out of the house in tears.
                                                            
 
INT. MATT'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
The room is dark except for Matt's desk lamp...He sits at
the desk doing homework, his door closed.

A KNOCK on his window startles him...He looks over to see
Maia outside, looking upset.

He lets her in, and she crawls through, crying. She walks
over and curls up on Matt's bed.
                                                            
                       MATT
      (concerned)
Maia, what's wrong?
                                                            
                       MAIA
I'm pregnant.
                                                            

20.

Matt sits down next to her in silence...Maia rests her head
on his shoulder, crying even harder.
                                                            
                       MATT
It's Kevin's, isn't it?
                                                            
Maia nods.
                                                            
                       MATT
What was his reaction?
                                                            
                       MAIA
He called me a slut and refused to
admit it was his. When I kept
saying it was his, he hit
me...God, this is all my fault.
                                                            
                       MATT
Shh. It's not your fault.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Oh, Matt! How am I going to tell
my mum? She's going to kill me
when she finds out--
                                                            
                       MATT
No she won't...Everything will be
fine.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Damnit, she warned me about him,
too.
                                                            
She starts to cry again.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Oh, why didn't I listen?
                                                            
                       MATT
Shh.
                                                            
He holds her.
                                                            
 
INT. MATT'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Moonlight fills the dark room.

Maia has fallen asleep on Matt's bed...Matt, now in his
night clothes, sits at his desk talking on the phone.

He looks tired.
                                                            

21.

                       MATT
Our project took a little longer
than we thought, Mrs, Sheppard,
and Maia's fallen asleep on me.
She looks too tired to wake up, so
is it okay if I just send her home
in the morning?
                                                            
                       AVA (O.S.)
Yes, that should be fine, as long
as your parents don't mind.
                                                            
                       MATT
They're fine. They actually
suggested it.
                                                            
                       AVA (O.S.)
Okay, then. 'Bye.
                                                            
                       MATT
'Bye.
                                                            
Matt hangs up the phone, sees that Maia is now awake,
looking at him.
                                                            
                       MAIA
And you said I was a bad liar.
                                                            
                       MATT
At least now you don't have to go
home and face the music.
                                                            
                       MAIA
That's true... Thanks.
                                                            
                       MATT
No worries.
                                                            
Matt gets up, walks to the bed, and sits next to Maia, who
looks up at him fondly.
                                                            
                       MATT
Maia, I've been thinking...
                                                            
                       MAIA
Mmm?
                                                            
                       MATT
What if you told your mum someone
else was the father? Maybe she
wouldn't react so much then.
                                                            

22.

                       MAIA
Yeah, but who?
                                                            
Matt flushes with embarassment.
                                                            
                       MATT
Me.
                                                            
Maia is shocked by his suggestion.
                                                            
                       MAIA
No, you can't Matt. It'll ruin
your life.
                                                            
                       MATT
So?
                                                            
Maia sits up.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Your parents will be disappointed.
Nobody in town will ever think of
you the same.
                                                            
                       MATT
They'll do that to you, too,
y'know.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Yes, I know, but I don't have a
choice. You do.
                                                            
                       MATT
I don't care what they think. I
love you.
                                                            
Maia hugs him fiercely, tears of relief on her cheeks.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (whispering)
Thank you.
                                                            
Maia pulls back and kisses him on the lips...At first Matt
is surprised, but then he relaxes and kisses Maia back.

They fall back on the bed, still kissing, until finally Matt
pulls away and rolls onto his back.
                                                            
                       MAIA
What's wrong Matt? Am I that bad a
kisser?
                                                            

23.

                       MATT
No, you're a great kisser. It's
just, right now I can't, it
doesn't feel right.
                                                            
Maia nods in understanding...She cuddles against him, his
arm is around her. and she drifts slowly into sleep.

Matt, wide awake, stares up at the ceiling, trying to get
his head around everything that has happened that night.
                                                            
 
INT. MATT'S BEDROOM - DAY
                                                            
Early morning sunlight fills the room.

Matt and Maia are cuddled up asleep.

ANGELA, Matt's mother, KNOCKS on the door.

She enters in an old dressing gown, her hair mussed from
sleep.
                                                            
                       ANGELA
Matt, honey, it's time to get up.
                                                            
She stops short, seeing Matt and Maia...
                                                            
                       ANGELA (CONT'D)
Oh, my!
                                                            
Embarrased, she leaves the room and shuts the door behind
her.

Matt wakes up, sleepy at first, then realizes what woke him.
                                                            
                       MATT
Shit...Maia, wake up.
                                                            
Matt gently shakes Maia awake.
                                                            
                       MATT (CONT'D)
You'd better go, my mum just saw
us.
                                                            
Maia is awake now, eyes wide...
                                                            
                       MAIA
Crap!
                                                            
She puts her shoes on and goes to the window.
                                                            

24.

                       MAIA (CONT'D)
I'm sorry, Matt. I hope your mum
won't be too mad.
                                                            
                       MATT
I'll be okay...See you after
school.
                                                            
Maia nods, climbs through the window, and is gone.
                                                            
 
INT. AL'S CAFE - DAY
                                                            
Mid-afternoon, the cafe is nearly full...

Matt and Maia sit at a corner table, still in their school
uniforms, bookbags under the table.

They both have soda...
                                                            
                       MAIA
So, what happened after I left?
                                                            
                       MATT
My mum was more embarrased than
anything. Then my dad starts
giving me "The Talk". It took me
half an hour to convince them
nothing happened.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Did they believe you?
                                                            
                       MATT
In the end. I also managed to stop
my mum calling your mum.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Thank you.
                                                            
Matt takes a sip of his soda.
                                                            
                       MATT
So, you know when you're going to
tell your mum?
                                                            
                       MAIA
No... I need to get used to the
idea myself yet.
                                                            

25.

Matt nods.

The bell chimes RING as Simon enters the cafe. Seeing him,
Maia looks very angry.
                                                            
                       MATT
What's wrong?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Simon.
                                                            
                       MATT
Oh, so he has a name.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I don't like him.
                                                            
                       MATT
Why?
                                                            
                       MAIA
He's always over talking to mum.
He never stays while I'm around
and whenever I ask who he is, all
she says is he's an old friend.
She never looks me in the eye when
she says that. I can't shake the
feeling that something isn't
right.
                                                            
                       MATT
Like what?
                                                            
                       MAIA
I wish I knew.
                                                            
 
EXT. SHEPPARD'S BACK PORCH - DAY
                                                            
An overcast day...Maia sits in a banana lounge, wearing a
pair of jeans that are now a bit too tight.

Resting on her stomach is a plate of chocolate, with sauce,
which she is nibbling on.

Ava appears, a novel in hand, and sits in another banana
lounge next to Maia.
                                                            
                       AVA
What are you up to?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Thinking.
                                                            

26.

                       AVA
Thinking about anything in
particular?
                                                            
                       MAIA
No, just thinking.
                                                            
Ava notices what Maia is eating.
                                                            
                       AVA
      (repulsed)
Is that chocolate and sauce?
                                                            
Maia appears not to notice Ava's disgust.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Yep. You want some?
                                                            
Maia offers Ava the plate.
                                                            
                       AVA
No thank you.
                                                            
Maia shrugs, as if to say "whatever." They sit in silence
for a moment.
                                                            
                       AVA (CONT'D)
Got any plans for tonight?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Going to the pictures with Matt.
                                                            
                       AVA
That's nice.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Is Simon coming over again?
                                                            
                       AVA
      (her tone guarded)
Maybe.
                                                            
                       MAIA
What's the deal with him anyway?
                                                            
                       AVA
What do you mean?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Well, is he like your new
boyfriend or something?
                                                            

27.

                       AVA
Why do you ask?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Just he's always over, that's all.
                                                            
She gets up.

Ava notices how tight Maia's jeans have gotten.
                                                            
                       AVA
Time for some new jeans, I think,
Maia.
                                                            
Maia hurries quickly inside.
                                                            
 
INT. CINEMA LOBBY - NIGHT
                                                            
The lobby is brightly lit...Maia and Matt sit waiting for
their movie to start, sharing a box of popcorn. Maia unwraps
a chocolate bar.
                                                            
                       MAIA
It's not fair. Now I have to wear
baggy clothes to hide my rapidly
growing waistline.
                                                            
                       MATT
Well, the chocolate doesn't help,
you know.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I can't help it, it's all I can
stand eating at the moment.
                                                            
                       MATT
Maia, it's been 3 weeks, you'll
have to tell your mum soon. You
wont be able to hide it forever.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I know, but I'm afraid of what
might happen. I mean mum got
pregnant with me at 16 and her
parents threatened to chuck her
out.
                                                            
                       MATT
But they didn't, did they.
                                                            

28.

                       MAIA
No. But they were very
disappointed in her, and now I'm
afraid she will be just as
disappointed in me.
                                                            
 
EXT. STREET - NIGHT
                                                            
Maia and Matt walk along, happily talking about the movie
they just saw.

Kevin steps out of the shadows in front of them.
                                                            
                       KEVIN
      (smirking)
Oh look, it's the slut, and this
must be the bastard child's
father.
                                                            
Matt stares angrily at Kevin.
                                                            
                       MATT
You know you're the father! But if
I were, at least I'd look after
them.
                                                            
Kevin's smirk is replaced by anger...He takes a step toward
Matt and tries to look intimidating.

Matt moves at Kevin, but Maia stops him.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Matt, no. He's not worth it. Let's
just go home.
                                                            
Matt takes a deep breath and relaxes.
                                                            
                       MATT
You know, Maia, you're right, he's
not worth it.
      (grins at Kevin)
See you around, loser. We're outta
here.
                                                            
Maia smiles at Matt and they walk off down the street,
holding hands.

Kevin watches them go.
                                                            
                       KEVIN
      (under his breath)
Ah, screw them, anyway--
                                                            
 

29.

INT. MAIA'S BEDROOM - DAY
                                                            
Maia--fifteen weeks pregnant and starting to show--stands in
front of a full-length mirror, examining herself in a baggy
T-shirt to see if her stomach is noticeable.

There is a KNOCK on her closed door.

She quickly grabs a pillow to hold up in front of her
stomach.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Come in.
                                                            
Matt enters, carrying a plastic bag full of his old jumpers,
which he places on Maia's bed.
                                                            
                       MAIA
For a second there I thought you
were my mum.
                                                            
Maia opens the plastic bag and looks through the clothes.
                                                            
                       MATT
Actually, your mum said she had to
go out. Said to tell you she won't
be home for tea.
                                                            
                       MAIA
All well. You want to stay then?
                                                            
                       MATT
Sure.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Cool.
                                                            
Maia takes a jumper from the bag and tries it on.

She checks out her reflection in the mirror, pleased at how
well her belly is hidden.
                                                            
                       MAIA (CONT'D)
Thanks for these.
                                                            
                       MATT
No problem. There's some school
ones there too and they've all got
plenty of room to grow.
                                                            
Maia flops down on her bed, looking relieved.
                                                            

30.

                       MAIA
      (smiling)
Crisis solved.
                                                            
Matt sits next to her.
                                                            
                       MATT
Well, one is, anyway...
                                                            
Maia's smile disappears.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I want to tell her, Matt, but I'm
scared.
                                                            
                       MATT
There's nothing to be scared of.
                                                            
Maia sits up.
                                                            
                       MAIA
But I am scared. I'm scared of Mum
being upset, I'm scared of losing
the baby, but most of all, I'm
scared of being alone.
                                                            
Matt hugs her.
                                                            
                       MATT
I won't ever let you feel alone,
Maia. I'll look after you, you and
the baby.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (gently breaking
       the hug)
No Matt. I've changed my mind. I
can't let you ruin your life for
something you didn't do.
                                                            
                       MATT
I told you, I don't care. Somebody
needs to take responsibilty.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Yes, but not you. I mean it, Matt.
                                                            
They sit in silence for a moment.
                                                            
                       MATT
Can I still help you?
                                                            
Maia nods.
                                                            
 

31.

INT. SHOPPING CENTER - DAY
                                                            
Maia and Matt, along with Anna and Katie, look at clothes
displayed in a shop window.
                                                            
                       KATIE
That's a beautiful skirt, don't
you think?
                                                            
                       ANNA
Totally.
                                                            
                       KATIE
You know, it would've looked great
on you Maia, if you hadn't staked
on all this weight this last month
and a bit.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (quietly)
All well.
                                                            
Simon appears, approaching Maia.
                                                            
                       SIMON
Maia, hi.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Hi.
                                                            
                       SIMON
Is your mother working today? I
can't seem to get hold of her.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Oh, she's gone for a haircut.
She'll be home by two.
                                                            
                       SIMON
Okay. thanks. 'Bye.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Yeah, 'bye.
                                                            
Simon walks off.

Maia, Matt, Anna and Katie walk off in the opposite
direction.
                                                            
                       KATIE
Was that your uncle or something?
                                                            

32.

                       MAIA
No, I don't have an uncle. Why?
                                                            
                       KATIE
You two look alike, that's all.
                                                            
                       ANNA
Yeah, you do. Especially the eyes.
                                                            
                       KATIE
Totally. Hey, you sure you haven't
got an uncle?
                                                            
                       MAIA
One-hundred percent.
                                                            
                       KATIE
'Cause I know your dad's dead and
all, but like did he have any
brothers?
                                                            
                       MAIA
I don't know.
                                                            
                       KATIE
Well there you go. He could be
your uncle.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (rolls her eyes)
Whatever.
                                                            
 
INT. SHEPPARD'S LOUNGEROOM - DAY
                                                            
Ava, on the couch reading a magazine, sees Maia enter and
sit in a chair next to the couch.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Mum?
                                                            
Ava looks at Maia over her magazine.
                                                            
                       AVA
Yes?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Did dad have any brothers or
sisters?
                                                            
Ava puts her magazine down.
                                                            

33.

                       AVA
What brought this on?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Just wondering, that's all.
                                                            
                       AVA
Do we have to talk about this now?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Why not?
                                                            
                       AVA
Because I'm busy.
                                                            
Ava goes back to reading her magazine.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Why don't you ever like to talk
about him?
                                                            
Ava continues to read, ignoring Maia.
                                                            
                       MAIA (CONT'D)
      (impatiently)
Mum, I have a right to know about
my father.
                                                            
Ava finally speaks, but continues to avoid Maia's eyes.
                                                            
                       AVA
Nobody said you didn't.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Well, then why do I know
absolutely nothing about him,
except for the fact that he's
dead?
                                                            
                       AVA
You never asked.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I shouldn't have to ask! Hell I
might even have grandparents I
don't know about. You know what
the worst part of it is, you never
once mentioned his name.
                                                            
Ava gets up and walks to the door, not looking at Maia.
                                                            

34.

                       MAIA (CONT'D)
That's right, do what you do best,
walk away.
                                                            
Ava turns to face Maia, her cheeks wet with tears.
                                                            
                       AVA
I could've walked away when you
were born, but I didn't. I chose
to give you a loving home. I have
loved and cared for you for almost
seventeen years without the help
of anyone else. I have given you
anything you have ever wanted.
Isn't that enough for you?
                                                            
Ava leaves without waiting for an answer...Maia stares after
her, tears on her cheeks as well.
                                                            
 
INT. SCHOOL LIBRARY - DAY
                                                            
Maia and Matt sit in a corner at the back of the library,
alone except for four other STUDENTS.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I feel really bad for Mum. She was
terribly upset.
                                                            
                       MATT
Yeah, but you have a right to know
about your dad.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Yeah, maybe.
                                                            
Katie enters, spots Matt and Maia, and comes over, sitting
next to Maia.
                                                            
                       KATIE
There you guys are. I've been
looking for you everywhere. Guess
what.
                                                            
                       MAIA
What?
                                                            
                       KATIE
You know Missy of Year Twelve?
                                                            
                       MATT
Yeah.
                                                            

35.

                       KATIE
Well, I heard from Anna that Missy
dropped out of school last week
because, get ready for this, she
got pregnant. I mean, how stupid!
                                                            
Maia goes pale.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Excuse me.
                                                            
Maia stands and leaves the library.
                                                            
                       KATIE
I thought she'd be happy with some
gossip like that. She's been so
moody lately. What's up with her
anyway?
                                                            
Matt shrugs.
                                                            
                       MATT
No idea.
                                                            
 
INT. MAIA'S BEDROOM - DAY
                                                            
Maia is now eighteen weeks pregnant.

Maia and Matt sit on Maia's bed, doing English homework.
                                                            
                       MAIA
This is so boring.
                                                            
                       MATT
Yes, I agree, but it needs to be
handed up tomorrow.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Horrible Mrs. Lensky.
                                                            
Maia flops backwards on her bed, then sits up fast, smiling
happily.
                                                            
                       MAIA (CONT'D)
It kicked.
                                                            
Matt gets excited.
                                                            
                       MATT
What? The baby?
                                                            

36.

                       MAIA
Yeah...! It did it again!
                                                            
Maia grabs Matt's hand and places it on her stomach.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Here, feel.
                                                            
They both feel another kick and burst out laughing in
excitement.
                                                            
                       MATT
That's so cool.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Yeah.
                                                            
They continue to laugh.
                                                            
 
INT. SHEPPARD'S KITCHEN - DAY
                                                            
Maia is at the kitchen table finishing her breakfast, while
Ava makes coffee at the counter.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I won't be home straight after
school this afternoon, Mum.
                                                            
                       AVA
What have you got planned?
                                                            
Maia looks into her cereal bowl.
                                                            
                       MAIA
A group assignment for Science.
Thought we'd finish it off this
afternoon in the school library.
                                                            
                       AVA
Oh, what time do you finish? Maybe
I could pick you up.
                                                            
Maia chockes on a bit of her breakfast.
                                                            
                       MAIA
No, no. I thought I might go for a
bite to eat with Matt afterwards,
if that's ok?
                                                            
                       AVA
Sure. That's fine.
                                                            
 

37.

EXT. STREET - DAY
                                                            
Maia and Matt, walking to school...
                                                            
                       MATT
Did you manage to finish your Math
homework last night?
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (distracted)
Yeah.
                                                            
                       MATT
I had a bit of trouble with
question 4-a, but I think I got it
in the end. How about you?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Yeah.
                                                            
Matt notices that Maia isn't fully paying attention.
                                                            
                       MATT
      (joking)
Oh, and I told everyone you're
pregnant.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Yeah--Wait, you did what?
                                                            
                       MATT
      (grins)
Only joking...
                                                            
Maia smiles and smacks him playfully.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Not funny.
                                                            
Maia's smile slowly disappears, and she appears distracted
again.
                                                            
                       MATT
Maia, what's wrong?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Nothing. I'm fine.
                                                            
                       MATT
That's not true...You can tell me,
you know.
                                                            

38.

Maia stops walking and sits down on a brick fence, letting
her bag drop.

Matt sets his bag next to hers, but remains standing.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I'm just nervous, that's all.
                                                            
                       MATT
Nervous about what? Your Math
homework?
                                                            
                       MAIA
No, stupid--
                                                            
Matt lets that slide.
                                                            
                       MATT
Then what?
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (takes a deep
       breath)
I have an ultrasound appointment
this afternoon.
                                                            
                       MATT
Well that's good, isn't it?
                                                            
                       MAIA
But what if they find a third eye
or leg?
                                                            
Matt perches next to Maia on the fence.
                                                            
                       MATT
I'm sure it's very healthy.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I hope so.
                                                            
                       MATT
      (hesitates)
I can go with you, if you want.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Matt, I--
                                                            
                       MATT
Just as a friend, nothing
more...For moral support.
                                                            

39.

                       MAIA
      (nodding)
Okay.
                                                            
 
INT. HOSPITAL WAITING ROOM - DAY
                                                            
The waiting room is almost empty of PATIENTS..

Maia and Matt sit nervously, waiting.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Thanks for coming, Matt.
                                                            
                       MATT
Somebody has to look after you.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Matt--
                                                            
DR. SARAH CARMON enters the waiting room.
                                                            
                       DR. CARMON
Maia Sheppard.
                                                            
Maia and Matt stand and follow Dr. Carmon out of the room.
                                                            
 
INT. HOSPITAL EXAM ROOM - DAY
                                                            
Maia, Matt and Dr. Carmon are in a small hospital exam room.


Dr. Carmon is performing the ultrasound on Maia, while Matt
watches. Maia holds Matt's hand for support.

The SOUND of a tiny heartbeat issues from the machine.
                                                            
                       DR. CARMON
The heartbeat is nice and strong.
That's good.
      (points at screen)
If you look here you can see the
baby's head.
                                                            
                       DR. CARMON (CONT'D)
Everything seems to be in order.
                                                            
                       MATT
See, Maia, I told you there would
be no third eye.
                                                            

40.

                       DR. CARMON
      (amused)
No, there is no third eye.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Or leg?
                                                            
                       DR. CARMON
Or leg. You two have a very
healthy baby in there.
                                                            
At Dr. Carmon's words, Maia drops Matt's hand.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Oh no, he's not the father.
                                                            
Matt is obviously hurt by Maia's harsh but true statement,
while Dr. Carmon isn't fazed.
                                                            
                       DR. CARMON
Well, no matter. You don't have a
thing to worry about.
                                                            
 
EXT. PARK - DAY
                                                            
Maia and Matt are sitting on the swings in the park...Maia
is looking at the ultrasound picture.

Matt stands up, about to leave, still hurt by her earlier
denial.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (surprised)
Where are you going?
                                                            
                       MATT
Thought I'd go home.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Why?
                                                            
                       MATT
      (shrugs)
Don't wont people getting the
wrong idea about us.
                                                            
                       MAIA
What do you mean?
                                                            
                       MATT
In the end people are going to
find out you're pregnant, and with
            (MORE)

41.

                       MATT (cont'd)
all the time we've been spending
together lately, they're going to
think I'm the father.
                                                            
                       MAIA
No, they're not.
                                                            
                       MATT
Wanna bet? Dr. Carmon even thought
so, and we were only there for a
little while...And you made it
perfectly clear that is not what
you want.
                                                            
Maia realizes now that she'd hurt Matt. She sighs.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Oh, Matt, I'm so sorry for what I
said at the hospital, and how I
said it...
      (takes his hand)
Everything is just happening all
too fast, and it scares me to
think what will happen when
everyone does find out.
                                                            
Matt relaxes and sits back down.
                                                            
                       MATT
I'm sorry, too. I was being
selfish, I didn't think about how
you must feel...I hope you'll
forgive me.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (smiles)
Sure, as long as you forgive me,
too.
                                                            
                       MATT
Deal.
                                                            
A LITTLE LATER
                                                            
They sit looking at the ultrasound picture.
                                                            
                       MATT
Hard to believe it's real, right
there inside you.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Oh, believe me, it's real.
                                                            

42.

                       MATT
Still kicking?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Uh-huh, but mostly at night now.
Don't you, you little bugger...
Ow! It kicked me just now--.
                                                            
                       MATT
Maybe it didn't like being called
a little bugger.
                                                            
Maia and Matt both laugh, as Anna walks up behind them.
                                                            
                       ANNA
Oh my gosh! Maia, Matt?
                                                            
Maia and Matt turn around, shocked.

Maia quickly closes the folder holding the ultrasound photo.
                                                            
                       MATT
Anna, what are you doing here?
                                                            
Anna walks around the swings to stand in front of Maia and
Matt.
                                                            
                       ANNA
Walking. So, you guys look cozy. I
thought you were with Kevin, Maia.
                                                            
                       MAIA
No, um, it didn't work out. We
ended it a few months back.
                                                            
                       ANNA
You certainly kept that quiet.
                                                            
Maia just shrugs.
                                                            
                       MATT
Besides, Maia and I aren't
together.
                                                            
                       ANNA
Yeah, whatever.
                                                            
Anna sees the paper folder in Maia's hands.
                                                            
                       ANNA (CONT'D)
What's that you've got there? Can
I see.
                                                            

43.

Anna takes the folder out of Maia's hands and looks inside.
                                                            
                       ANNA
Ohmigod, Maia...Of all the girls
to get knocked up, who would have
thought it would be you?
      (shakes her head)
You're gonna have a hard time
convincing people you aren't an
item, especially if word gets
out--
                                                            
                       MAIA
Anna, it's not Matt's.
                                                            
                       ANNA
Oh, then--Wait, you're not saying
it's Kevin's, are you?
                                                            
Maia nods, starting to cry...Matt hugs her.
                                                            
                       ANNA
That bastard! Acting as if he is
all saintly, fooling everyone.
Wait till everyone finds out what
a low-life he is.
                                                            
                       MATT
Anna, you can't tell anyone, not
even Katie. No one knows.
                                                            
                       ANNA
      (to Maia)
Not even your mum?
                                                            
Maia shakes her head.
                                                            
                       ANNA (CONT'D)
Okay...You can trust me.
                                                            
 
INT. MAIA'S BEDROOM - DAY
                                                            
Maia is in bed, talking to Anna on the phone...Her curtains
are drawn, making the room very dim.
                                                            
                       ANNA (O.S.)
So, how are you feeling? You
haven't been at school for the
past week.
                                                            

44.

                       MAIA
Mum thinks I have a bad cold, but
really the baby has been keeping
me up much of the night. Sleep has
not been an option, so I at least
look sick.
                                                            
                       ANNA (O.S.)
Do you need me to bring anything
over for you?
                                                            
                       MAIA
No, thank you. I'll be fine, and
hopefully back to school on
Monday. God, I can't bear to think
how far behind I am...
                                                            
                       ANNA (O.S.)
Don't worry, Matt and I will help
you.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Thanks.
                                                            
                       ANNA (O.S.)
So how many weeks along are you
now?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Twenty-two weeks.
                                                            
                       ANNA (O.S.)
Maia, I think maybe it's time to
tell your mum...Soon you wont be
able to get around as easily.
                                                            
                       MAIA
No, not yet. I'm not ready.
                                                            
 
INT. SHEPPARD'S KITCHEN - NIGHT
                                                            
Maia, Ava and Simon sit at the kitchen table eating dinner.

Maia hasn't eaten much, she's just poking at her food, and
looking at Simon with a mixture of curiousity and hostility.

Simon notices it, but says nothing...Ava continues to eat
and doesn't notice the silent by-play between them.
                                                            
Finally, Maia speaks...
                                                            

45.

                       MAIA
So, Mr. Davis, what brings you
back to town?
                                                            
                       SIMON
Please, Maia, call me Simon.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Okay, Simon...What brings you back
to town?
                                                            
                       AVA
Maia, don't be rude.
                                                            
                       MAIA
How is asking a question rude?
                                                            
                       SIMON
      (to Ava)
It's okay, she has a right to be
curious...
      (to Maia)
I've taken a job at the local
paper.
                                                            
                       MAIA
So you chucked a city job for one
that probably pays half as much?
Sounds pretty dumb to me--
                                                            
                       AVA
Maia!
                                                            
                       MAIA
What? I'm just asking!
                                                            
                       AVA
You know damn well 'what,' young
lady!
                                                            
                       MAIA
Aren't I allowed to ask questions
now? I have a right to know...I
mean, why would anyone in their
right mind leave the city for the
boring country?
      (pauses)
And why spend all his time here?
I'm sure he has other friends--
                                                            
Simon sits quietly, while Ava's anger grows.
                                                            

46.

                       AVA
You are being very disrespectful,
Maia. Apologize at once!
                                                            
                       MAIA
No, Mum, I won't...It's a shame,
you know? I only wish you showed
as much interest in my dad as you
do in him!
                                                            
Simon almost chokes on his water...He sets his glass down
hard and starts coughing.

Ava stands, ready to strangle Maia.
                                                            
                       AVA
Maia, that's it! If you can't be
civil to someone who's done you no
harm, then I suggest you go up to
your room, now!
                                                            
Maia stands and flees the room...Ava turns to Simon,
apologetic.
                                                            
                       AVA (CONT'D)
Simon, I am so sorry. I don't know
what got into her.
                                                            
Simon leans back in his chair, giving Ava a pointed look.
                                                            
                       SIMON
I'm not angry at her, although it
may be time to let her know the
truth...Some secrets can't be kept
forever, you know.
                                                            
 
INT. MAIA'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Maia sits on her bed, still upset, on the phone with Matt.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I totally lost it, Matt! I mean,
you should've seen my mum's face,
I've never seen her look so angry.
                                                            
                       MATT (O.S.)
I agree it was over the top, but
she'll calm down.
                                                            
                       MAIA
But she wasn't only angry, she
looked a little sad too.
                                                            

47.

                       MATT (O.S.)
Sad?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Yeah...I dunno, the whole thing is
just weird--
                                                            
                       MATT (O.S.)
Why'd you say all that, anyway?
                                                            
                       MAIA
It just slipped out, I didn't mean
to say any of it...I just got so
angry all of a sudden, that's all.
                                                            
                       MATT (O.S.)
Maybe you should apologize, then.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Maybe, but I still think there's
something going on with him, and
her.
                                                            
                       MATT (O.S.)
Well, I agree it's strange, but
even so, you don't need any added
stress right now.
      (pauses)
Maybe you should go make peace
with them.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I guess you're right...He's still
down there, so I'll do it now.
I'll speak to you tomorrow. 'Bye.
                                                            
Maia hangs up the phone and leaves the room.
                                                            
 
INT. SHEPPARD'S LOUNGEROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Ava and Simon sit on the couch, talking in hushed voices.

Maia enters. They look up at her, Ava still angry, Simon
more relaxed...
                                                            
                       MAIA
I just wanted to say I'm sorry. I
don't know what came over me, I
really didn't mean to say all
those things.
                                                            

48.

Maia looks at Simon,..He smiles at her, more amused than
upset.
                                                            
                       SIMON
Apology accepted.
                                                            
Maia looks anxiously at Ava.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Mum?
                                                            
                       AVA
      (sighs)
You're forgiven, but if you ever
do that again I'll paddle your
butt so hard you won't sit for a
week. Is that clear?
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (looking ashamed)
Yes, Mum.
                                                            
 
INT. SPARE ROOM - DAY
                                                            
Maia enters and goes to the cupboard..She opens the door,
takes down a box from the top shelf, and sets it on the
floor.

She sits cross-legged next to it and opens the lid.

Inside: A pile of photos, certificates and awards.

Maia looks at some of the photos...One of her and Ava when
she was younger...Several of her and Matt.

Maia smiles.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (softly, to
       herself)
I remember these--
                                                            
Next she sees an envelope and picks it up...a folded piece
of paper falls out.
                                                            
                       MAIA (CONT'D)
What's this, then?
                                                            
She unfolds it...It is her birth certificate.
                                                            

49.

ANGLE on the document as she starts to read it...

Her name: "Maia Elizabeth Sheppard"...Her mother's name:
"Ava Louise Sheppard."
                                                            
Under 'Father's Name' she sees: "Simon John Davis."
                                                            
                       MAIA (CONT'D)
Oh, my God--
                                                            
She drops the paper and runs frantically from the room.
                                                            
 
INT. MATT'S BEDROOM - DAY
                                                            
Matt is at his desk, doing homework...His phone rings, and
he answers it.
                                                            
                       MATT
Hello?
      (listens)
Maia, what's wrong? I can't
understand you...Look, I'll be
right there, okay? Whatever it is,
we'll handle it together.
                                                            
Matt hangs up. He stands up, grabs his jacket, and leaves.
                                                            
 
INT. SHEPPARD'S LOUNGEROOM - DAY
                                                            
Maia is pacing the loungeroom, visibly agitated...Matt sits
on the couch, looking at the birth certificate.
                                                            
                       MATT
I can't believe it...Are you sure
it's the same Simon?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Of course it's him! This explains
everything, the way my mum's been
acting ever since he came back,
like she was guilty of something--
                                                            
Maia suddenly feels faint, and leans on the back of a chair.
                                                            
                       MATT
      (worried)
Maia, you need to calm down.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I can't! Everything is just so
screwed up right now--
                                                            

50.

The front door opens...Ava and Simon enter the front hall
laughing, then enter the loungeroom.
                                                            
                       AVA
Would you like some coffee?
                                                            
                       SIMON
Sure...
                                                            
They notice Matt, and Maia, who is so upset she's shaking.
                                                            
                       AVA
Maia... What's wrong?
                                                            
                       MAIA
I know your little secret!
                                                            
                       AVA
      (nervous)
Little secret?
                                                            
                       MAIA
You know, don't play stupid. All
these years you've been lying to
me about him.
      (gestures at Simon)
How could you, Mum?
                                                            
                       AVA
Maia-
                                                            
Maia cuts her off, turns her anger on Simon...
                                                            
                       MAIA
And you, how could you just come
back here after all these years
and continue to lie to me?
                                                            
                       SIMON
Maia, I didn't know, not at
first--
                                                            
                       MAIA
Bullshit!
                                                            
                       AVA
It's true. I never told him, not
until a few months ago.
                                                            

51.

                       MAIA
So? He still never told me he's my
father, and I think I know
why...You wouldn't let him, 'cause
you always told me he was dead!
                                                            
She gets a strong cramp in her stomach and doubles over,
crying out in pain.
                                                            
                       MAIA (CONT'D)
Oh, God...
                                                            
Matt gets up and hurries to her side.
                                                            
                       MATT
Maia, what is it?
                                                            
                       MAIA
It hurts, Matt, something's wrong
in there--
                                                            
Matt turns to Ava and Simon, who look worried and confused.
                                                            
                       MATT
Call an ambulance, now!
                                                            
Simon takes out his cell phone, as Ava rushes to Maia.
                                                            
                       AVA
Maia, honey, whats wrong?
                                                            
Maia faints.
                                                            
 
INT. HOSPITAL WAITING ROOM - DAY
                                                            
Matt is pacing, while Ava and Simon are sitting, nervous.

Dr. Carmon enters...Matt stops pacing and Ava and Simon
stand up.
                                                            
                       DR. CARMON
Hello, Matt.
                                                            
Matt introduces Dr. Carmon to Ava and Simon.
                                                            
                       MATT
Dr. Carmon, this is Ms. Sheppard,
Maia's mum, and Mr. Davis, Maia's
dad.
                                                            
                       DR. CARMON
Hi, I'm Dr. Carmon, Maia's doctor.
                                                            

52.

                       AVA
Is she okay?
                                                            
                       DR. CARMON
She and the baby will be fine. She
had a panic attack caused by too
much stress...We're keeping her
overnight just in case.
                                                            
                       AVA
Baby? You mean she's pregnant?
                                                            
                       DR. CARMON
Yes. Twenty-four weeks. I gather
you didn't know.
                                                            
                       AVA
No. Not a clue.
      (turns to Simon)
And she's mad because I kept a
secret?
                                                            
                       MATT
Can we see her now?
                                                            
                       DR. CARMON
Yes, but please, no stress. We
don't want a premature labor.
                                                            
Matt, Simon and Ava nod...Dr. Carmon leaves the room...Ava
confronts Matt.
                                                            
                       AVA
Matt, did you know about this?
                                                            
Matt just nods.
                                                            
                       AVA
Why didn't she say anything?
                                                            
                       MATT
She was scared.
                                                            
Ava takes a deep breath, anxious about her next question.
                                                            
                       AVA
Are you the father?
                                                            
                       MATT
No...I wish I was.
                                                            
                       AVA
Do you know who is?
                                                            

53.

                       MATT
      (hesitant)
Yes.
                                                            
                       AVA
Well, then?
                                                            
                       MATT
I think you need to talk to Maia
about that.
      (after a pause)
I'm sorry I didn't say anything.
                                                            
                       AVA
It's not your fault, Maia can be
very stubborn sometimes.
                                                            
Matt looks relieved, and grins at Ava.
                                                            
                       MATT
You're telling me...
                                                            
 
INT. MAIA'S HOSPITAL ROOM - DAY
                                                            
Maia is in a single-bed room, hooked up to a machine to
moniter her and the baby...Ava enters and sits in a chair
next to the bed.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Mum, I'm sorry.
                                                            
                       AVA
It's okay. As long as you're fine,
I'm happy.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I would've told you, but I didn't
want you to be disappointed in me.
                                                            
                       AVA
I would never be disappointed in
you, Maia, you're my daughter.
                                                            
Maia and Ava sit in silence for a moment, then Ava breaks
the silence.
                                                            
                       AVA
Maia, who's the father?
                                                            
Tears begin to fall down Maia's cheeks. She doesn't answer.
                                                            

54.

                       AVA
Is it Kevin?
                                                            
Maia nods, crying even harder.
                                                            
                       MAIA
He called me a slut, Mum. He
denied it was his.
                                                            
Ava pulls Maia into a hug.
                                                            
                       AVA
      (also crying)
It's okay now, Maia. It's all
going to be okay.
                                                            
 
INT. SHEPPARD'S FRONT HALLWAY - DAY
                                                            
Ava and Maia enter from outside...Ava sets Maia's overnight
bag on the floor.
                                                            
                       AVA
You go into the lounge and rest.
I'll put the kettle on.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Just a hot tea for me, please.
                                                            
                       AVA
Okay.
                                                            
 
INT. SHEPPARD'S LOUNGEROOM - DAY
                                                            
Maia lies on the couch under a quilt, propped up on
cushions... Her tea is on a coaster on the coffee table.

Ava sits in a chair, holding a cup of coffee.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Why didn't you tell Simon or me
the truth?
                                                            
                       AVA
I was sixteen. I was young and
scared, just like you are now.
                                                            
                       MAIA
So what happened?
                                                            

55.

                       AVA
Simon and I had been going out for
two years. Everything was great,
until one day his father got a
transfer and they were moving to
the city.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Great for them, not so great for
you...
                                                            
                       AVA
I was upset, but what could I do?
When I found out I was pregnant a
month later, I didn't have the
heart to tell him, I was sure it
would ruin his life--
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (nodding)
Exactly how I felt with Matt.
                                                            
                       AVA
I don't expect you to understand
fully, Maia, but I want you to
know why. I wasn't trying to hurt
anyone.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (thoughtfully)
I do understand...Being pregnant
myself, I can see where you were
coming from.
                                                            
She looks at Ava, starting to cry.
                                                            
                       MAIA (CONT'D)
It's so hard, Mum! Do I deny my
child the knowledge of its father,
or do I tell the truth, that Kevin
is a selfish ass?
                                                            
Ava takes Maia's hand in hers.
                                                            
                       AVA
When the time comes, you'll know
what to do.
      (smiles sadly)
I just hope you don't make a total
mess of things, like I've done--
                                                            
Maia returns the smile.
                                                            

56.

                       MAIA
Don't worry, Mum, we still love
you.
                                                            
 
EXT. SHEPPARD'S BACK PORCH - DAY
                                                            
A nice sunny day...Maia and Katie relax on the banana
lounges.

Maia is now 26 weeks pregnant.
                                                            
                       MAIA
So what's new with Kevin?
                                                            
                       KATIE
Once word got out, it was like he
had AIDS or something...It was
kind of sad, really, but he
deserved every awful thing people
said about him.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (ruefully)
What have they been saying about
me?
                                                            
                       KATIE
Oh, you're fine...Everyone was
surprised, you know, but they're
totally on your side with the
whole Kevin thing, nobody likes
what he did to you.
                                                            
She gives Maia a reproachful look.
                                                            
                       KATIE (CONT'D)
You could've told me, you know. I
wouldn't have said anything.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I know, but I panicked...I haven't
made such great decisions lately--
                                                            
                       KATIE
That's okay, I forgive you.
                                                            
They both laugh, then Maia becomes serious again.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Katie?
                                                            

57.

                       KATIE
Yeah?
                                                            
                       MAIA
How's Matt?
                                                            
                       KATIE
      (surprised)
Haven't you seen him?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Not since the hospital.
                                                            
                       KATIE
But that was two weeks ago...Has
he at least called?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Why should he? I'm not his
responsibility--
                                                            
                       KATIE
Oh, Maia, you're so blind...That
boy is totally in love with you.
I'm surprised you haven't noticed.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (angry with
       herself)
But that's just it, I should have
noticed. Hell, it was right in
front of me all along--
                                                            
                       KATIE
How so?
                                                            
                       MAIA
When I told Matt I was pregnant,
he offered to say he was the
father, but I wouldn't let him...I
thought he was just being a good
friend.
                                                            
                       KATIE
He's always been a good friend.
Why'd you turn him down?
                                                            

58.

                       MAIA
I couldn't let him destroy his
life, not for me.
      (pauses)
Then again, I still let him help
me in other ways, afraid of being
alone, I guess...
                                                            
                       KATIE
You like him, don't you!
                                                            
Maia shrugs, shyly.
                                                            
                       KATIE (CONT'D)
Well, I'm sure you'll see him
soon.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I hope so...I miss him.
                                                            
 
INT. AVA'S BEDROOM - DAY
                                                            
Maia, sitting on Ava's bed, makes a phone call.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Hi Angela, it's Maia again...Is
Matt in yet?
                                                            
                       ANGELA (O.S.)
Oh, hello Maia.. Um, I'm afraid
not. Look I'll make him call you
as soon as he returns.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Thanks, Angela...'Bye.
                                                            
Maia hangs up the phone.
                                                            
 
INT. TOFFIC'S KITCHEN - DAY
                                                            
Angela hangs up the phone and sits at the table, across from
Matt.
                                                            
                       ANGELA
That's like the twelfth time she's
called in the past two weeks,
Matt. You'll have to speak to her
sometime.
                                                            

59.

                       MATT
      (sighs)
I know.
                                                            
                       ANGELA
Then why haven't you?
                                                            
                       MATT
She doesn't need me anymore.
                                                            
                       ANGELA
How do you know she doesn't need
you?
                                                            
                       MATT
No one else knew, before. She
relied on me then, and needed me.
But now there are so many people
to help her, she's got Ava and
Simon...
                                                            
                       ANGELA
Call her, Matt, or one day you
might regret it.
                                                            
 
EXT. STREET - DAY
                                                            
Maia, Katie and Anna are walking down the street.
                                                            
                       KATIE
      (teasing)
Any word from your new Lover Boy?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Katie!
                                                            
                       ANNA
Lover Boy?
                                                            
                       KATIE
Well...
                                                            
                       ANNA
Come on, spit it out.
                                                            
                       KATIE
      (reluctantly)
Matt.
                                                            
                       ANNA
      (grins happily)
I knew it!
                                                            

60.

Maia and Katie look at each other, surprised.
                                                            
                       MAIA
So you're not upset?
                                                            
                       ANNA
No. Why would I be?
                                                            
                       KATIE
Because you've had a crush on him
for the past year.
                                                            
                       ANNA
I did have, but now I have a thing
for Dereck.
                                                            
                       KATIE
Dereck? Ew!
                                                            
Anna gives Katie the evil eye.
                                                            
                       ANNA
Anyway, so how is Matt?
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (shrugs)
I haven't spoken to him since the
hospital.
                                                            
                       ANNA
What, a month! Wow, that's so
unlike him.
                                                            
Maia shrugs again. Sensing her mood, Katie puts an arm
around her.
                                                            
                       KATIE
Don't worry Maia. He'll come
around.
                                                            
 
INT. TOFFIC'S FRONT HALL - DAY
                                                            
The doorbell RINGS...Matt enters and answers the door,
surprised to see Katie standing there.
                                                            
                       MATT
Katie, hey.
                                                            
                       KATIE
Hey, yourself.
                                                            

61.

                       MATT
Come on in.
                                                            
Matt leads her into the kitchen.
                                                            
IN THE KITCHEN
                                                            
                       MATT
Would you like a drink?
                                                            
                       KATIE
No thanks.
                                                            
Katie takes a seat at the kitchen bench...Matt gets a soda
from the fridge and sits next to her.
                                                            
                       MATT
So what's up?
                                                            
                       KATIE
I've come to talk about Maia.
                                                            
Matt sighs, looking unhappy.
                                                            
                       KATIE (CONT'D)
Matt, she's really upset you
haven't been to see her, let alone
called her back.
                                                            
                       MATT
      (softly)
I didn't mean to upset her.
                                                            
                       KATIE
Well, you have.
                                                            
Matt doesn't answer.
                                                            
                       KATIE (CONT'D)
Matt, would you at least go see
her so she knows you haven't
forgotten about her?
                                                            
                       MATT
But I haven't...I would never
forget about her.
                                                            
                       KATIE
Then go and see her, goof--
                                                            
 

62.

INT. SHEPPARD'S KITCHEN - DAY
                                                            
Maia and Katie are sitting opposite each other at the
kitchen table, each with a glass of water.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Did you see Matt? How is he?
                                                            
                       KATIE
He seemed okay...He said he was
sorry for ignoring you, and that
he'd come over himself and tell
you.
                                                            
Maia nods.
                                                            
                       KATIE (CONT'D)
Anyway, how are you?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Well, I'm the size of a large
beach ball, my legs are killing me
and I think I have a fish inside
me instead of a kid.
                                                            
Maia and Katie laugh.
                                                            
                       KATIE
You poor thing. But it's almost
over.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (turning serious)
No kidding...Everything's been
happening so fast, I haven't even
thought about after, you know?
                                                            
                       KATIE
Well, don't worry, Maia. You'll be
okay.
                                                            
The two girls hug.
                                                            
 
INT. AVA'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Ava, sitting up in bed, reading...There is a KNOCK on the
closed door.
                                                            
                       AVA
Come in.
                                                            
Maia enters.
                                                            

63.

                       MAIA
I can't sleep, Mum...The baby
keeps kicking me.
                                                            
Ava laughs.
                                                            
                       AVA
Sounds familiar. You did exactly
the same to me.
      (pats the bed)
Sit with me.
                                                            
Maia joins Ava on the bed, resting her head against the
pillows. She takes Ava's hand, places it on her stomach.
                                                            
                       AVA (CONT'D)
Wow. That little one can kick.
                                                            
                       MAIA
My future soccer player.
                                                            
Maia and Ava laugh.
                                                            
                       AVA
Before we know it, she'll be
winning the cup.
                                                            
                       MAIA
She? What if it's a boy?
                                                            
                       AVA
Then it's a boy...I just have a
feeling, this baby will be a girl.
                                                            
Ava changes the subject.
                                                            
                       AVA (CONT'D)
Haven't seen Matt for awhile.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I haven't seen him either, but
Katie has. Said he might stop by.
                                                            
                       AVA
That would be nice.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Yes, it would.
                                                            
                       AVA
You should be thankful for
him...Not every lad would offer so
much to a girl.
            (MORE)

64.

                       AVA (cont'd)
      (pauses)
I'm surprised he'd even consider
taking on Kevin's responsibility--
                                                            
                       MAIA
I'm not, Matt's good that way...
Part of me wishes I hadn't turned
him down.
                                                            
                       AVA
You did the right thing, Maia. It
wouldn't have been right to ask
him to give up his future.
                                                            
Maia's eyes fill with tears.
                                                            
                       MAIA
But I wish he was the father, and
not Kevin--God, Matt would've been
a perfect father.
                                                            
Ava hugs her daughter reassuringly.
                                                            
                       AVA
I know, sweetheart, I know...I'm
sure he'll come back around.
                                                            
 
INT. HOSPITAL EXAM ROOM - DAY
                                                            
Maia lies on the exam bed, while Dr. Carmon feels her
abdomen for the position of the baby.

Ava is sitting in a chair in the corner of the room.
                                                            
                       DR. CARMON
      (pleased)
Good, the baby has turned. Better
late than never, although 34 weeks
is a bit later than we'd
like...How are you, otherwise?
                                                            
Maia starts to reply, but Ava cuts in.
                                                            
                       AVA
She hasn't been sleeping well.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (shooting Ava a
       look)
Yeah...Everytime I decide to rest,
the little one decides it's time
to play.
                                                            

65.

                       DR. CARMON
And now you can expect nice strong
kicks in the ribs.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (rubbing her ribs)
Shhh...I think it heard you.
                                                            
They all laugh.
                                                            
                       DR. CARMON
Well, Maia, not long now.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (softly)
No.
                                                            
 
INT. SHEPPARD'S LOUNGEROOM - DAY
                                                            
Maia sits with her feet up, reading a magazine...The
doorbell RINGS, and she struggles to her feet
                                                            
                       MAIA
Coming--
                                                            
She opens the door, her expectant look turning to anger at
the sight of Kevin.
                                                            
                       MAIA
What do you want?
                                                            
                       KEVIN
I've come to see how you are.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Why? You never cared before.
                                                            
                       KEVIN
Damnit, Maia, you're having our
child--
                                                            
                       MAIA
Oh, so it's 'ours' now? I'm not a
slut anymore?
                                                            
                       KEVIN
Look, I was an idiot, okay?
                                                            
                       MAIA
You still are.
                                                            

66.

Maia starts to close the door, but Kevin stops her and moves
closer.
                                                            
                       KEVIN
Maia, let me show you how sorry I
am...
                                                            
He grabs her and tries to kiss her...Maia struggles, unable
to break free.
                                                            
 
EXT. SHEPPARD HOME - DAY
                                                            
Matt walks toward the front door...He sees Kevin kissing
Maia and misunderstands.
                                                            
                       MATT
      (under his breath)
Son-of-a-bitch!
                                                            
He turns and walks off angrily.
                                                            
 
INT. SHEPPARD'S LOUNGEROOM - DAY
                                                            
Maia finally pulls away from Kevins kiss...Furious, she
slaps him.
                                                            
                       MAIA
How dare you!
                                                            
                       KEVIN
But--
                                                            
                       MAIA
Out, damn you! Get out before I
slap you again!
                                                            
Kevin leaves in a hurry...As Maia shuts the door, Ava
enters.
                                                            
                       AVA
I heard yelling. Is everything
okay?
                                                            
                       MAIA
No! That was Kevin, he thinks just
because he finally apologized we
can be one big, happy family...He
had the nerve to try and kiss me--
                                                            
                       AVA
So now he admits the baby is his?
                                                            

67.

                       MAIA
Uh-huh...
                                                            
Ava takes Maia's hand and helps her toward the couch.
                                                            
                       AVA
What a sleaze.
                                                            
 
INT. AL'S CAFE - DAY
                                                            
Simon and Maia sit at the counter, sipping milkshakes.

The cafe is otherwise deserted except for Al, who sits
behind the counter reading a newspaper.
                                                            
                       MAIA
So, do you have any other kids?
                                                            
                       SIMON
No, just you.
                                                            
                       MAIA
What about brothers and sisters?
                                                            
                       SIMON
One younger sister, Tyler, and an
older brother, Dennis.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Do they have any kids?
                                                            
                       SIMON
Not yet, but Tyler's engaged.
                                                            
The cafe door opens and the chimes RING...Maia sees Matt
walk in.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Excuse me a second, will you,
Simon?
                                                            
Maia gets up and walks over to Matt, who seats himself at a
table alone.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (nervously)
Hi, Matt...
                                                            
Maia sits in the seat opposite him...He barely looks at her,
saying nothing.
                                                            

68.

                       MAIA (CONT'D)
Why haven't you called? It's been
ages.
                                                            
Matt looks up, unable to hide his anger.
                                                            
                       MATT
So how's Kevin?
                                                            
                       MAIA
What's he got to do with anything?
                                                            
                       MATT
I saw you kissing him! How could
you, Maia, after what he did to
you?
                                                            
                       MAIA
But, Matt, I--
                                                            
                       MATT
      (stands suddenly)
No! I don't want to hear it.
Maia. You made your choice.
                                                            
Matt storms out of the cafe...Maia stares after him, a tear
on her cheek.
                                                            
 
INT. TOFFIC'S FRONT HALL - DAY
                                                            
The doorbell RINGS...Matt enters the hall and answers the
door, surprised to see Katie.

She enters the hall and confronts him, hands on hips.
                                                            
                       KATIE
How could you? Maia is very
fragile at the moment, and here
you are, making her miserable.
                                                            
                       MATT
Well, she deserves it, and him
too.
                                                            
                       KATIE
Like hell she does!
                                                            
                       MATT
Look, Katie, I saw them kissing.
As far I'm concerened he can have
her.
                                                            

69.

                       KATIE
You're such a bonehead...She tried
to tell you the truth at Al's, but
you'd rather believe the worst--
                                                            
                       MATT
The truth?
                                                            
                       KATIE
Yeah...Kevin came by with some
lame apology, but Maia wants no
piece of him. When she asked him
to leave, he forced that kiss on
her.
      (pauses)
Hell, if you weren't so quick to
judge, you'd have seen her slap
him for it.
                                                            
Matt is embarrassed, and angry with himself.
                                                            
                       MATT
I am such an idiot.
                                                            
                       KATIE
Yup, but I'm not the one you
should be saying that to, Maia is.
                                                            
                       MATT
      (sighs)
I'll call her now.
                                                            
                       KATIE
You better, or I'll be back.
                                                            
Katie leaves.
                                                            
 
EXT. PARK - DAY
                                                            
Maia sits on a swing, sad, holding one of the old photos of
her and Matt.
                                                            
Matt comes up and kneels in front of her.
                                                            
                       MATT
Maia, I'm so sorry for doubting
you--Can you forgive me?
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (smiling through
       her tears)
Oh, Matt...
                                                            

70.

He stands, taking her into his arms...They hug
tightly...When Matt moves to kiss her, Maia doesn't resist.
                                                            
 
INT. TOFFIC'S KITCHEN - DAY
                                                            
Maia and Matt sit at the kitchen table, looking at an
ultrasound photo.
                                                            
                       MAIA
I had it a couple of weeks ago. I
thought you might like to see it.
                                                            
                       MATT
Yeah, this is cool...Thank you.
                                                            
Maia stands, obviosly in pain, and starts to pace.
                                                            
                       MATT (CONT'D)
Maia, are you okay?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Yes...Pacing helps settle--
      (doubles over)
Oh, that hurts!
                                                            
She looks at Matt, scared.
                                                            
                       MAIA (CONT'D)
Matt, I think we have a problam.
I've never felt a pain like that
before...
                                                            
                       MATT
I'll call an ambulance--
                                                            
                       MAIA
No Matt, not yet, it's still too
early.
                                                            
She sits back down.
                                                            
                       MATT
What should I do then?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Sit with me.
                                                            
                       MATT
Don't worry, I'm here.
                                                            

71.

                       MAIA
I'm glad...Don't you dare leave
me.
                                                            
                       MATT
Maia, I will never leave you.
                                                            
She smiles, then doubles over again, crying out.

The front door is heard CLOSING o.s., then Angela enters the
kitchen.
                                                            
                       ANGELA
Hey, you two--
                                                            
She takes one look at Maia and goes pale.
                                                            
                       MATT
Mum, what's wrong?
                                                            
                       ANGELA
She's gone into labor...I'll get
the car.
                                                            
Angela leaves the room.
                                                            
                       MAIA
But...It's too soon.
                                                            
                       MATT
Tell that to the baby.
                                                            
He helps her to her feet, and they move toward the front
door.
                                                            
 
INT. HOSPITAL WAITING ROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
It is the middle of the night...Matt, Simon and Angela wait
anxiously for news.

Ava enters, looking worn out and happy.
                                                            
                       AVA
It's a girl!
                                                            
                       MATT
      (pleased)
Alright--
                                                            
Matt hugs Angela, while Ava and Simon look at each other and
smile.
                                                            
 

72.

INT. MAIA'S HOSPITAL ROOM - DAY
                                                            
Matt holds the BABY, talking to her and pacing. On the bed,
Maia is fast asleep.
                                                            
A LITTLE LATER
                                                            
Matt sits in a chair, still holding the baby...He sees that
Maia has awakened.
                                                            
                       MATT
'Morning, sleepy head.
                                                            
                       MAIA
      (yawning)
'Morning... How is she?
                                                            
                       MATT
      (grins)
Very energetic.
      (pauses)
Have you thought of a name yet?
                                                            
                       MAIA
Yeah, I want to name her after my
mum...Ava.
                                                            
Matt smiles.
                                                            
                       MATT
I like it.
                                                            
 
INT. HOSPITAL CORRIDOR - DAY
                                                            
Kevin stands at the nursery window, looking at baby Ava.

Matt approaches, not happy to see Kevin.
                                                            
                       MATT
What are you doing here?
                                                            
                       KEVIN
      (smiling sadly)
I just wanted to see her.
                                                            
Matt relaxes, sensing no hostility.
                                                            
                       MATT
She's beautiful, isn't she?
                                                            
                       KEVIN
The most beautiful thing ever--
                                                            

73.

He turns to face Matt, tears in his eyes.
                                                            
                       KEVIN (CONT'D)
You'll take good care of her,
won't you?
                                                            
                       MATT
The best.
                                                            
Kevin smiles his thanks, then turns and walks away,
obviously shaken.
                                                            
 
INT. SHEPPARD'S FRONT HALL - DAY
                                                            
The front door opens, and Ava, Matt, Maia, and Simon enter.

Simon has baby Ava in a carrier.

Matt turns to Maia and takes a blindfold out of his pocket.
                                                            
                       MAIA
Oh? And what's that, then?
      (to Ava)
Mum, is he being naughty already?
I should've known it--
                                                            
                       AVA
      (smiling)
You'll see.
                                                            
Matt blindfolds Maia, leads her to the stairs...
                                                            
                       MAIA
Matt, where are we going?
                                                            
                       MATT
No worries...Just watch your step.
                                                            
They start up, followed by the others.
                                                            
 
INT. SPARE ROOM - DAY
                                                            
Katie stands watch at the door of the spare room, which is
now a nursery.

She sees Matt and Maia coming up and rushes back into the
room, where Anna and Angela wait to spring the surprise.
                                                            
                       KATIE
      (whispering)
Okay, she's coming.
                                                            

74.

They crouch in various hiding places...Matt leads Maia into
the room.
                                                            
                       MATT
Are you ready?
                                                            
He removes the blindfold...Maia's eyes go wide as stares in
wonder at the new nursery.
                                                            
Angela, Anna, and Katie pop up, simultaneously yelling
'Surprise!'
                                                            
                       MAIA
Oh, you guys! I love it! Thanks
so much...
      (turns to Matt)
And thank you most of all.
                                                            
She kisses him...The kiss continues even as Ava gestures for
the others to leave the room.

Matt and Maia never notice they're gone.
                                                            


FADE OUT.


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From Larry Boodry Date 4/14/2006 ****
Great job, Alice! (So what if I'm biased?)

From Kelsi Date 3/31/2006 ****
I really like this story. I could definatlly see this on Lifetime or a made for TV movie and being a big hit. I liked how in the end Maia kind of got 2 fathers when she started out with none. Great story

From Larry Boodry Date 3/15/2006 ****
Hi Alice...For some reason my previous feedback never posted, but you're doing a great job so far...Keep up the good work! Larry

From Scott Patrick Date 3/1/2006 ***
Good work, just keep it up. Also, when you use INSERT make sure you include the words: BACK TO SCENE. At the beginning, you put scenes back-to-back without any direction. I really like the story so far.

From Glenn Date 2/27/2006 ***1/2
Excellent work so far. Characters are great and so is the plot. the .5 deduction was due to some grammed and spelling errors i saw. Send the rest of it to my email after u completed it.


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