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Learning Curve
by Orbin Walcott (orbinwalcott@yahoo.com)

Rated: R   Genre: Drama   User Review:
NOT YET
RATED

The story of a high school senior, who is a single father raising a five-year-old daughter as he juggles both school and work; and the obstacles he faces through life. Not your typical urban drama. *I would like to know what you think, so any feedback would be nice. Please!


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.



FADE IN:

EXT. CITY OF BOSTON - DAY
                                                            
ROLL CREDITS OVER:
                                                            
We are shown a BIRD'S-EYE VIEW of the landscape of the city
of Boston; gradually zooming in closer until we are
literally outside the window of a HIGH SCHOOL CLASSROOM,
looking in on:
                                                            
ANTHONY RAMOS; early teens (somewhere between 13 and 14),
Hispanic, average build and a pretty good looking kid, with
a personality to match.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. ENGLISH HIGH SCHOOL, ALGEBRA CLASS
                                                            
SUPER - FRESHMAN YEAR
                                                            
To his friends and family, he's known as Tony. But to his
mother -- and us -- he's known as just plain Anthony.
                                                            
A Freshman in high school, Anthony is sitting through his
Algebra class, taking a test, when suddenly two cute
Freshman girls -- KIA & TAMMY -- storm through the door:
                                                            
                       KIA/TAMMY
Tony!!
                                                            
The whole class looks up.
                                                            
                       KIA/TAMMY
It's time!!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (confused)
Time for what?
                                                            
                       KIA
Nikki! She's going into labor -- !
                                                            
                       TAMMY
You gotta go, hurry!
                                                            
Anthony turns to his teacher, MR. MORGAN, who is sitting at
his desk.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Is it okay if I go, Mr. Morgan?
                                                            

2.

                       MR. MORGAN
Go. You can finish the test when
you come back.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Thank you, sir.
                                                            
Anthony quickly gathers his stuff into his BACKPACK, then
heads for the door.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (to Kia & Tammy)
Which hospital is she at?
                                                            
                       KIA/TAMMY
Boston Medical Center.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Okay, thanks.
                                                            
He leaves.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. BOSTON MEDICAL CENTER - ESTABLISHING - LATER
                                                            
Anthony steps off a BUS, then heads towards the entrance of
the hospital.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
INT. BOSTON MEDICAL CENTER, LOBBY - DAY
                                                            
Anthony continues inside, until he finds an information
booth, with one male SECURITY GUARD sitting down, reading a
MAGAZINE.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Excuse me?
                                                            
                       GUARD
Yeah?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Can you tell me where the
maternity ward is?
                                                            
The guard gives him a weird look before giving an answer.
                                                            
                       GUARD
Sure.
      (pointing out)
Just take that elevator up to the
            (MORE)

3.

                       GUARD (cont'd)
fourth floor.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Thanks a lot.
                                                            
                       GUARD
No problem, kid.
                                                            
Anthony heads for an open elevator, soon after the doors
close.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. BOSTON MEDICAL CENTER, MATERNITY WARD - DAY
                                                            
END CREDITS as the elevator doors open and Anthony, the only
one inside, steps out. He stops a young female NURSE who's
walking by.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Excuse me?
                                                            
                       NURSE
Yes?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I'm looking for a patient, who's
in labor. Her name's Nikki
Sandoval.
                                                            
                       NURSE
Oh, yes, she's in room
four-oh-five. Are you her brother?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Uh, no, I'm the father of the
baby.
                                                            
                       NURSE
      (realizing)
Oh. Well congratulations, she gave
birth to a beautiful, healthy
girl.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Thank you very much.
                                                            
He heads for the room.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            

4.

INT. BOSTON MEDICAL CENTER, NIKKI'S ROOM - DAY
                                                            
Anthony enters the room. NIKKI SANDOVAL, 16, is just lying
on the bed, FLIPPING through channels on the TV. The BABY,
a girl, just as the nurse said, is sleeping in a nearby
RECEIVING TABLE.
                                                            
Nikki is beautiful, and clearly older than Anthony. At first
glance, one can safely assume that she is part of the
popular crowd in high school. She notices Anthony walking
in, but doesn't seem very enthused about it.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Hey, Baby.
                                                            
                       NIKKI
      (rolls her eyes)
Hi.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
You could've called me, you know.
                                                            
                       NIKKI
I forgot.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
When did you get here?
                                                            
                       NIKKI
Twenty PAINFUL hours ago.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (re: baby)
Where is she?
                                                            
Nikki simply points out the way. He walks over. Anthony sees
exactly what the nurse described, a beautiful baby girl. His
baby girl. He smiles to himself as he watches her sleep.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (amazed)
Wow...!
      (to Nikki)
We made this?
                                                            
                       NIKKI
      (unenthused)
Yup!
                                                            
Anthony's facial expression suddenly turns serious. He turns
to Nikki:
                                                            

5.

                       ANTHONY
So, uh... was I supposed to wait
until the baby was ten until I
found out?
                                                            
                       NIKKI
What do you mean?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I found out from Kia and Tammy,
Nikki! I'm the fuckin' father, and
I have to find out from friends of
yours that I don't even know?!
                                                            
She turns off the TV, giving him her undivided attention.
                                                            
                       NIKKI
      (smirking)
Well, well. Look who finally
smartened up, and grew a pair.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
'The fuck you talkin' about?
                                                            
                       NIKKI
You, Anthony! For some stupid
reason, you could never see that
you're just a kid! I never wanted
to be with you -- hell, I never
gave a shit about you. But I guess
all those cartoons wouldn't let
you realize that I was drunk --
and horny -- at the party, and you
happened to be the first guy I
saw. I never wanted a baby,
especially yours!
                                                            
FLASHBACK
                                                            
We see a quick glimpse of what Nikki just mentioned:

A) Anthony & Nikki meeting at a house party one night; she's
clearly drunk as they talk.

B) Nikki leads Anthony upstairs in the house, through a
crowd of people.

C) Alone in a bedroom, Nikki & Anthony are kissing
passionately as they get ready to have sex.
                                                            

6.

BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Then, why'd you stay with me while
you was pregnant!?
                                                            
                       NIKKI
'Cause I thought you would
actually do something! Until I
realized that you was just a kid.
I mean, how the fuck is a
fourteen-year-old gonna take care
of me?! You know what's the sad
thing? You really thought I was in
love with you. Anthony, you are so
naive!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (beat)
So what about the baby?
                                                            
                       NIKKI
      (shrugs)
You tell me. That's your problem
now.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
"My problem" -- ?
                                                            
                       NIKKI
L-Let me ask you something. Did
you ever wonder why we never
fucked again?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
'Cause you was pregnant? I don't
know!
                                                            
                       NIKKI
See, there you go bein' all naive
again. It's because I never liked
you!
                                                            
FLASHBACK
                                                            
Another quick flashback, but this time we're at the couple's
high school. We see Nikki hiding behind a guy who looks
about two years older than her, as she watches Anthony
talking to two girls -- probably asking them a question by
the way they shrug their shoulders.
                                                            

7.

                       NIKKI (VO)
      (continued)
I was always avoiding you in
school. Hell, you didn't even know
that I was with another man all
this time!
                                                            
BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smart-aleck)
Well, that's one question
answered.
                                                            
                       NIKKI (cont'd)
I hardly picked up your calls. I
mean the only times I called you
was when I needed something. And
the only thing that's making this
break-up easy is the fact that I
know your mother doesn't like me.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Oh, so we're breaking up here?
                                                            
                       NIKKI
      (tauntingly)
Yes, Anthony, we are. You need me
to hold your hand through it -- ?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Fuck you!
                                                            
                       NIKKI
No, fuck you. And just so you
know, I was really pissed off when
the results came out positive. I
lied when I told you I was happy.
                                                            
FLASHBACK
                                                            
We see Nikki, crying in the bathroom of her home as she
holds a HOME PREGNANCY TEST. She throws a fit.
                                                            
BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
                       NIKKI
You know, you're the reason why
I'm so miserable right now.
Because of you, my parents
disowned me! My mom cussed me out,
and my dad...
      (tearing up)
...my dad couldn't even look at
            (MORE)

8.

                       NIKKI (cont'd)
me! They both said they didn't
love me anymore. I've been living
with my aunt for the last nine
months. And it's all because of
you! So I don't give a fuck about
you, and I definitely don't give a
fuck about that baby; 'cause as
soon as they let me out of this
hospital, I'm moving to New York
with my man!!
                                                            
The baby begins to CRY.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Then go, Nikki, go!! Take you,
your man, and your shit, and get
the fuck outta here!! I don't need
you anymore! But I will say this:
once you walk out that door,
you're walking out of my
daughter's life for good, 'cause
you won't mean shit to the both of
us. I'm gonna take care of this
baby 'cause I love her, and unlike
you, I'm not running away from my
responsibility!
                                                            
Nikki just looks at him -- she didn't expect to hear
something like that out of Anthony. His cellphone RINGS and
he walks out of the room.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. BOSTON MEDICAL CENTER, 4TH FLOOR HALLWAY
                                                            
Anthony reaches into his pocket. He tries to keep his
composure as he hesitantly answers his CELLPHONE. We hear
the voice of a HISPANIC WOMAN:
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
H-Hello?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY'S MOM
      (from phone)
Hello, Anthony?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Yeah, Ma?
                                                            

9.

                       ANTHONY'S MOM
      (from phone)
Where are you? The school called
and said you left early.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
I'm at the hospital, with Nikki.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY'S MOM
      (from phone)
Why? What happened?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
She just gave birth.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY'S MOM
      (from phone)
She just gave birth? How come you
didn't tell us? I wanted to be
there.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
'Cause I didn't know either.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY'S MOM
      (from phone)
What do you mean "you didn't
know"? Anthony, do you want me to
come over there?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
No, Mom, I can handle this. I'm
gonna stay the night here, to make
sure everything's alright.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY'S MOM
      (from phone)
Are you sure?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Yeah, I'm sure.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY'S MOM
      (from phone)
Okay.
                                                            

10.

                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Bye.
                                                            
He hangs up, then heads back to the room.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. BOSTON MEDICAL CENTER, NIKKI'S ROOM - DAY
                                                            
By the time Anthony returns, Nikki is already fast asleep.
The room is silent, and Anthony sits in a nearby chair and
turns the TV on.
                                                            
                                         DISSOLVE TO:
                                                            
INT. BOSTON MEDICAL CENTER, NIKKI'S ROOM - LATE NIGHT
                                                            
Nikki is still sleeping. Anthony is half-asleep in his
chair, watching CARTOONS when he is awoken by the sound of
his baby CRYING. He goes over to check on her, but the noise
doesn't seem to bother Nikki.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (softly)
Shhh...don't cry. Everything's
gonna be alright.
                                                            
He reaches over Nikki's bed to find the CALL BUTTON. He
pushes it, calling for the nurse. A kind OLDER NURSE, named
JOY, comes in.
                                                            
                       NURSE JOY
Yes? What's wrong?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
My baby's been crying for a while,
and I'm not sure what to do.
                                                            
                       NURSE JOY
Oh, come here.
                                                            
She picks up the baby.
                                                            
                       NURSE JOY
      (smiling)
She's just hungry, that's all.
Here, hold her, while I make her a
bottle.
                                                            

11.

Joy hands Anthony the baby, and he holds her -- correctly.
Joy walks away, and Anthony gently rocks the baby, trying
his best to calm her down. Moments later, Joy returns with a
full BABY'S BOTTLE in her hand. She feeds it to the baby.
                                                            
                       NURSE JOY
      (smiling)
I think this would be easier if
you sat down.
                                                            
He does so.
                                                            
                       NURSE JOY (cont'd)
What's your name, Young Man?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Anthony.
                                                            
                       NURSE JOY
Well, Anthony, I'm Joy. If you
need anything else, let me know.
Okay?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Okay. Thank you.
                                                            
                       NURSE JOY
You're welcome.
                                                            
Joy leaves. As he feeds the baby:
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
She's nice. You wanna watch
cartoons with me? Okay, let's
watch some cartoons.
                                                            
                                         DISSOLVE TO:
                                                            
 
INT. BOSTON MEDICAL CENTER, NIKKI'S ROOM - DAY
                                                            
SUPER - THREE DAYS LATER
                                                            
It's late in the day. Anthony walks into the room and finds
Nikki, fully dressed and packing an OVERNIGHT BAG. He turns
and sees a BABY BAG, already full of SUPPLIES, sitting on a
table. Anthony looks back at Nikki, with a very serious look
on his face. When Nikki finally looks up at him, he turns
away towards the receiving table where the baby is, as if in
disgust. He walks towards the receiving table.
                                                            

12.

ANGLE ON Anthony as he closes his eyes -- nothing needs to
be said here. He looks down and gently strokes the baby's
hair, who is wide awake. Then, he glances over his shoulder,
hearing Nikki's FOOTSTEPS as she walks out of the room --
and out of his life. A moment passes, before Anthony gently
picks up the baby, and the baby bag, then leaves the room.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. SUBWAY, RED LINE - EVENING
                                                            
It's a half-empty car. Anthony is sitting down with the
baby, feeding her a half-empty bottle of formula. There is a
YOUNG COUPLE sitting across from him, staring. By Anthony's
facial expression, it's clear that this has been happening
for a while now. He looks up at them:
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (annoyed)
What the hell are you staring at!?
                                                            
Startled, the couple looks away. The train pulls into a
station, and Anthony gets off.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. RAMOS RESIDENCE - ESTABLISHING - NIGHT
                                                            
A decent, two-story house in a quaint neighborhood in the
heart of Dorchester. Complete with a front yard and
driveway.
                                                            
Anthony, holding the precious cargo, makes his way up the
steps, towards the front door.
                                                            
INT. RAMOS RESIDENCE, LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
The Ramos home is a very homely one and, upon entering, one
can get a Hispanic vibe from the place because of all the
Honduran decor that represents the Ramos' nationality.
                                                            
Anthony enters the house and closes the door behind.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I'm home!
                                                            
He sees a man, PABLO, sitting on the couch, watching a
BASEBALL GAME on the TV. Pablo is a laid-back kind of guy
who is in his mid-30s. He is good-looking and Anthony's
mother's boyfriend. Anthony walks over to a chair and sits
down, exhausted.
                                                            

13.

                       ANTHONY
Hey, Pablo.
                                                            
                       PABLO
Hey, Tony. Is that who I think it
is?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Yup! That's my daughter.
                                                            
                       PABLO
Let me see her.
                                                            
Anthony hands him the baby. Pablo gently rocks her, while
she is wide awake.
                                                            
                       PABLO
Wow! She is beautiful.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Thank you.
                                                            
At that moment, Anthony's mother, ISABEL, walks into the
room. Isabel Ramos, mid-30s, is a beautiful Hispanic woman.
She is a strict, but very caring mother. Isabel sits on the
couch, next to Pablo.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
      (in Spanish)
Hi, Anthony.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Hey, Mom.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
      (smiling)
Oh, and is this my granddaughter?
                                                            
She takes the baby off of Pablo's hands.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
Look how cute she is!
                                                            
She starts making baby sounds to the baby, who is in delight
to see her grandmother for the first time.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
      (to Anthony)
What's her name?
                                                            

14.

Anthony looks down for a moment -- obviously he didn't think
of a name all this time. Then, he smiles to himself:
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Jessica Isabel Ramos.
                                                            
                       PABLO
      (smart-aleck)
You're giving her your mother's
name?
                                                            
Isabel playfully hits him.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
And what's wrong with that?
                                                            
                       PABLO
      (smiling)
Nothing, Querida. I'm just
teasing.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
      (to Anthony)
Well, I think it's a beautiful
name.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Thank you.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
Where's Nikki?
                                                            
Anthony's facial expression goes from joy to pain.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
She left me...
                                                            
                       ISABEL
      (in Spanish)
Why? What happened, son?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (softly)
She, uh... when I got to the
hospital today, she was already
ready to leave. I thought she was
gonna take the baby home with her,
but she said that she didn't wanna
take care of her. Then, she told
me 'bout how she was cheating on
me with another guy all this time,
and how she was leaving Boston
with the guy. The mother of my
child told me that the baby was
            (MORE)

15.

                       ANTHONY (cont'd)
"my problem". I mean, who says
that?
                                                            
                       ISABEL
How can she say that about her own
child?! You see? I told you that
girl was no good! She was a little
tramp, and I can't believe she
abandoned her baby!!
                                                            
                       PABLO
Isabel, calm down -- !
                                                            
                       ISABEL
      (in Spanish;
       subtitled)
No, Pablo! I knew something like
this would happen! And you,
Anthony, you're only fourteen
years old!! You are not ready to
be having any kids right now!
      (beat)
Look... we can do this: we can
take the baby to your aunt's house
and let her raise her -- everyone
knows she's always wanted a
daughter anyway. And if that
doesn't work, then we give her up
for adoption.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
What? No!
                                                            
                       ISABEL
      (to Anthony)
Do you know the kind of
responsibility raising a child is?
It's not easy.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I know. But Jessica's my daughter,
so I'm gonna take care of her.
Look, I don't wanna talk about it
anymore, okay? I just wanna sleep.
                                                            
Anthony walks over to Isabel, and she hands him the baby. As
he walks out of the room:
                                                            
                       ISABEL
Anthony...
                                                            
He turns.
                                                            

16.

                       ISABEL (cont'd)
Fine, I'll help you raise her.
                                                            
                       PABLO
Me too.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (beat)
Thank you, both.
                                                            
He heads upstairs.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. UPSTAIRS HALLWAY
                                                            
Anthony walks towards his bedroom but stops halfway when he
hears the ongoing conversation. He listens:
                                                            
                       ISABEL (OS)
I can't believe this is happening.
                                                            
                       PABLO (OS)
I know, Amor, I know.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. LIVING ROOM - SAME
                                                            
Isabel is slowly pacing around, while Pablo is still calmly
sitting on the couch.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
      (re: Anthony)
I mean, what if he tries to get me
to do everything? Feed her, buy
diapers, medicine -- where am I
gonna get the money for all of
that? I'm not even ready to be a
grandmother yet!
                                                            
                       PABLO
      (stands up)
Give the boy a chance, Isabel. I
mean, he looked very serious about
taking care of Jessica. Who knows,
maybe he can handle it. And if
not, then we'll see what happens.
Okay?
                                                            
Isabel slowly nods agreeingly. Clearly she doesn't like the
plan, but its a plan no less.
                                                            

17.

                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. UPSTAIRS HALLWAY
                                                            
Anthony hangs his head for a moment, but quickly heads for
his room after hearing the SOUND of his parents coming
UPSTAIRS (OS).
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. ANTHONY'S ROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Anthony's room is very much like any typical teenage boy's
room: there is a COMPUTER DESK here, a TV and VIDEO GAMES
there. MOVIE POSTERS on the wall. But, most notably, the
room is big enough for the baby's CRIB, which has already
been set up.
                                                            
Anthony walks in and places Baby Jessica in her crib.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (sighs)
Well... Daddy has to go to sleep,
okay?
                                                            
The baby is already sleeping. He kisses her on the forehead.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (softly)
Good night, Sweetie.
                                                            
He takes off his shoes then lies on the bed.
                                                            
CU - ANTHONY'S EYES
                                                            
They slowly close. Moments later, the ALARM CLOCK (OS) goes
off, and his eyes are wide open again:
                                                            
 
INT. ANTHONY'S BEDROOM - DAY
                                                            
SUPER - SENIOR YEAR. FIVE YEARS LATER.
                                                            
It's 7:00 AM. Sleepily, and with his head poking out of the
bedsheets, Anthony turns around and presses the snooze
button; resuming his sleep. Anthony is now 19-years-old; and
while it shows the five years he's aged, he still has a
handsome face.
                                                            
A beautiful five-year-old Hispanic girl comes into the room,
and runs over to a still-sleeping Anthony. This is JESSICA,
or Jessie as the family calls her; bright, grown up, and
already dressed for school.
                                                            

18.

                       JESSICA
      (shaking him)
Wake up, Daddy!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (sleepily)
Mmm, five more minutes, Baby.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
No! It's time to go to school!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Daddy needs five more minutes,
okay Jessie?
                                                            
He goes back to sleep. Jessica climbs on top of the bed and
starts JUMPING. After a few jumps, Anthony finally decides
to get up.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Okay, I'm up!
                                                            
He playfully grabs Jessica in the middle of a jump, then
brings her down to his bedside, tickling her. Afterwards,
they stop playing and just look at each other:
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Good morning, Beautiful.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Good morning, Daddy.
                                                            
He leans in to kiss her on the cheek, but she turns away.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
What? Can I get a kiss?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
No. You haven't brushed your teeth
yet.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Oh, so it's like that?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Mmm-hmm.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Okay, fair enough.
                                                            

19.

He picks her up off the bed, then places her on the floor.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Wow! You're getting big now,
Honey!
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Yeah, I grew one inch!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yeah, I see that. Let me take a
shower and I'll meet you
downstairs, okay?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Okay. See you later. And don't go
to sleep!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (chuckles)
I won't.
                                                            
She leaves the room. Anthony gets out of bed, then yawns as
he stretches. He has a lean body, somewhat of an athlete. He
walks out. *NOTE: the crib is no longer in the room.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. RAMOS RESIDENCE, KITCHEN - MORNING
                                                            
A typical kitchen, complete with a SMALL TV on the counter,
which is already set on "SESAME STREET".
                                                            
Isabel and Pablo, now in their forties, are already in the
kitchen. Pablo is sitting at the table, reading a newspaper,
while Isabel is pouring out a bowl of FRUIT LOOPS. Although
they've both aged five years, they still look the same as
before. Even in the business suits they are wearing. Jessica
walks into the kitchen.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (in Spanish)
Hi, Grandma. Hi, Grandpa.
                                                            
                       ISABEL/PABLO
      (in Spanish)
Hi, Honey.
                                                            
She walks over to Pablo, then kisses him on the cheek. Next,
she sits at the table as Isabel places the bowl of cereal in
front of her. Isabel kisses Jessica on the cheek.
                                                            

20.

                       ISABEL
      (smiling)
How're you doing, Sweetie?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Good!
                                                            
Jessica picks up the spoon and starts eating her cereal.
Anthony, dressed and backpack in hand, walks into the
kitchen.
                                                            
                       ISABEL/PABLO
Good morning, Anthony.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Hey, Ma. Hey, Pablo.
                                                            
Anthony places his bag down and reaches into a cupboard,
taking out a BOX OF POP-TARTS. He takes out a PACK, then
puts the box back in the cupboard. He opens the pack and
starts eating.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
So, you guys got a wedding
anniversary comin' up, huh?
                                                            
                       ISABEL
That's right. Five years, in just
two weeks.
                                                            
She gives Pablo a light kiss, then proceeds to sip a glass
of orange juice.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Got any plans?
                                                            
He picks up a glass of milk that's already been set for him,
and starts sipping it.
                                                            
                       PABLO
Well, your mother wants to go to
Vegas that week. But we haven't
decided yet.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Why not? Y'all should go, it'll be
fun. Don't worry about me and
Jessie.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
You sure you can handle it?
                                                            

21.

                       ANTHONY
Yeah! Speaking of which. Ma, can
you pick up Jessie from school
today? I gotta work late.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
Sure.
                                                            
                       PABLO
You have to work late again,
Anthony? Will they ever give you a
break?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Pablo, this is the hospital we're
talking about. The more people get
sick, the less we break.
                                                            
Jessica finishes drinking the milk out of her bowl.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
All gone!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Go get your stuff.
                                                            
Jessica heads into the living room, then comes back with her
BACKPACK with CARTOON DESIGNS on it. Anthony picks up his
bag, then kisses Isabel on the cheek.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
See y'all later.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. RAMOS RESIDENCE - DAY
                                                            
It's a bright spring day out, with people out either heading
to school or work.
                                                            
Anthony and Jessica exit the house. They walk over to his
car, a TOYOTA COROLLA, which is parked right out front.
Anthony opens the passenger's side door for Jessica, and she
gets in. He fastens her seat belt for her. Next, he gets in
on the driver's side. They drive off.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. HAPPY YEARS PRESCHOOL - ESTABLISHING - DAY
                                                            
The Happy Years Preschool is a large preschool located in
the heart of Boston. There are many children heading inside.
Some are getting off school buses; some are heading inside

22.

alone; and some are with their parents. There's also some
teachers outside, greeting everybody.
                                                            
Anthony's Toyota pulls up front.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. TOYOTA - DAY
                                                            
Jessica undoes her seat belt, getting ready to leave.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Here's your stop, Sweetie. I'll
see you later tonight, okay?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
You're not gonna pick me up?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I can't, Baby, I have to work
late. Abuela's gonna come get you.
But I'll be here next time, okay?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
You promise?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I promise.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (beat)
Daddy, can I ask you something?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Of course, Honey. What is it?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Where's Mommy?
                                                            
FLASHBACK
                                                            
We see a quick flashback of Nikki & Anthony's argument from
earlier on.
                                                            
BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (beat)
I don't know, Baby. She left.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Why? Did she leave because of me?
                                                            

23.

                       ANTHONY
No. Never. Mommy left because she
couldn't handle things like a
mother should. You had absolutely
nothing to do with it. You hear
me?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Okay.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I don't ever want you thinking
like that, okay? Come give me a
kiss.
                                                            
They kiss each other on the cheek.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Now you be good today.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Okay. I love you, Daddy.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
'Love you, too.
                                                            
She gets out of the car.
                                                            
ANTHONY'S POV
                                                            
He sees Jessica walking towards two other LITTLE GIRLS --
her friends.
                                                            
BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
He smiles to himself as he drives off.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
INT. ENGLISH HIGH; HALLWAYS - DAY
                                                            
Anthony walks up to his LOCKER and opens it. ALEX PEREZ, his
best friend, walks up to him. Alex, 19, is a handsome
Hispanic boy from a Dominican background. He's a rare type
of guy: he can be mature yet a goofball at the same time.
But, overall, he's a very good-natured person. Anthony
starts taking out BOOKS.
                                                            
                       ALEX
Waz good, T!
                                                            

24.

                       ANTHONY
Nothin', Alex, just gettin' ready
for class.
                                                            
                       ALEX
Yeah, man. Same shit, different
day, huh?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Exactly.
                                                            
                       ALEX
Yo, did you do the algebra
homework? 'Cause I was wondering
if I could copy it.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (closes his locker)
Dude, how many times do we have to
go through this? You're not gonna
copy my homework. I still haven't
forgotten what happened sophomore
year.
                                                            
                       ALEX
Yeah, I know. But it doesn't hurt
to ask, right?
                                                            
Anthony smiles at this. They walk towards their first class:
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yo, so waz good with that party
over the weekend? I heard it was
supposed to be off the hook.
                                                            
                       ALEX
It was off the hook. Yo, check it
right? Me, Manny, and Tam-Tam, we
all went over to Joey's crib,
where the party was at.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Right, right.
                                                            
                       ALEX (cont'd)
We get there, and everybody was
doin' their thing. Then this
banging shorty comes up to us with
two of her friends. I guess they
was feelin' us or something,
'cause they wanted to see if we
was down with goin' to an after
hours spot over in Mattapan. So me
an' Tam-Tam got in Manny's whip,
            (MORE)

25.

                       ALEX (cont'd)
and headed over there.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Then what happened?
                                                            
                       ALEX (cont'd)
So we get to the spot, and
everyone's drinking, chillin' --
you know, a mellow environment.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Uh-huh.
                                                            
                       ALEX
You know Brian, from Mister
Cabrera's homeroom?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Big dude on the football team?
                                                            
                       ALEX
Naw. Little Brian. The one who
always talks shit.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yeah, yeah I know him.
                                                            
                       ALEX
Well right when I'm 'bout to get
shorty's number, this pendejo
shows up drunk, spills his drink
on her, then starts grabbing on
her! Next thing I knew, a fight
breaks out for like forty-five
minutes and everybody's runnin'.
But, Tam-Tam wasn't so lucky. He
had to spend a night en la carcel.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Damn!
                                                            
                       ALEX
But yo, if I see that cockblocker
today, I'ma beat his ass!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I don't blame you, man.
                                                            
The school bell RINGS (OS).
                                                            

26.

                       ALEX
A'ight that's the first bell.
Check ya later.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
A'ight.
                                                            
They bump fists then go their separate ways. Anthony heads
into a nearby classroom and Alex continues down the hallway.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. ENGLISH HIGH, US HISTORY CLASS - DAY
                                                            
In a class of about twenty-five, there are some students
sitting down either one or two at a table. More are coming
in, filling up the seats as they come in. Anthony walks in
and takes a seat at a table in the back of the classroom.
Sitting next to him is his classmate and one of his friends
from Alex's story: MANNY FONSECA. Manny, 18, is a
light-skinned Cape Verdean boy. He is slightly taller than
both Anthony & Alex, and a bit pudgy. Although he isn't much
of a talker to anyone but his friends, one can tell Manny's
character by his sense of style as he tends to wear the
newest brand name clothes out on the market.
                                                            
Once the class has been filled; the teacher, MRS. QUEENAN,
late-40s, begins a roll call. The two boys begin to talk as
this is going on, politely keeping their voices down:
                                                            
                       MRS. QUEENAN
Okay. Now, Alexia Alvarez...?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
What's up, Manny?
                                                            
                       MANNY
      (whispering)
Waz good?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
Yo, I heard about the party -- !
                                                            
                       MANNY
      (whispering)
Oh, man, you should've been there!
Shit was crazy! A fight broke out
then the cops showed up and
arrested some people.
                                                            

27.

                       MRS. QUEENAN (OS)
Manny Fonseca?
                                                            
                       MANNY
Here.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
Yeah. I heard Tam-Tam got arrested
too.
                                                            
                       MANNY
      (whispering)
Yeah, man, that's what they sayin'
but I wasn't around to see it
though.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
So you an' Alex just left him
behind? That's fucked up!
                                                            
                       MANNY
      (whispering)
Naw, not even! A'ight, what
happened was that me and Alex was
off that, but then I realized that
Tam-Tam was missing. So I told
Alex to go back and look for him,
but then he came back and said
Tam-Tam was being put in a
cruiser.
                                                            
                       MRS. QUEENAN (OS)
Anthony Ramos?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Here.
      (whispering; to
       Manny)
You think he'll show up.
                                                            
                       MANNY
      (whispering)
I dunno, probably. But, yo, I hear
there's another party coming up
soon. That is if you down?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
Manny, I'd love to. But I'd have
to find someone to babysit, and my
folks ain't always available --
            (MORE)

28.

                       ANTHONY (cont'd)
you know how it is.
                                                            
                       MANNY
      (whispering)
T, I can get my sister to babysit.
It's no problem.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
Thanks, but no thanks. Maybe some
other time.
                                                            
                       MRS. QUEENAN
      (finishing up)
And finally Ricky Zane.
                                                            
RICKY simply raises his hand.
                                                            
                       MRS. QUEENAN
      (to class)
Okay. Now please open your
textbooks to page two-forty-five.
                                                            
The entire class open their books to the page.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. ENGLISH HIGH, ENGLISH CLASS - LATER
                                                            
This class is big, with about thirty students; this is due
in part of MR. FRANKLIN, an African-American teacher in his
mid-thirties, being a popular teacher at the school. He is
standing at the front of the class, giving a lesson. Lying
in front of each student is a copy of William Shakespeare's
"Romeo & Juliet". Anthony & Alex are sitting together at a
table.
                                                            
                       MR. FRANKLIN
Now, I'm sure everyone in this
room read "Romeo & Juliet" last
night, like I asked. So what did
you guys think of the story?
                                                            
A female student, BRIANNA, raises her hand.
                                                            
                       MR. FRANKLIN
Brianna?
                                                            
                       BRIANNA
I liked it, Mister Franklin. I
couldn't put it down.
                                                            

29.

                       MR. FRANKLIN
What did you like about it?
                                                            
                       BRIANNA
I like how they were so much in
love, that they weren't gonna let
anything get in the way of that.
                                                            
                       MR. FRANKLIN
That's good.
                                                            
Another student, TEDDY, speaks out of attention:
                                                            
                       TEDDY
Yo, Mister Franklin! Man, I didn't
like it. I remember that movie
with Leonardo DiCaprio, and this
book was nothin' like the movie. I
mean the movie had gunfights, and
this book had sword fights! What's
up with that?
                                                            
                       MR. FRANKLIN
      (smart-aleck)
Well, Teddy, this play was written
back in the sixteenth century and
that movie was made in
nineteen-ninety-six. I mean, damn,
I would assume even a kid like you
would notice the difference!
                                                            
The class LAUGHS.
                                                            
                       TEDDY
Well, I didn't really read the
book. I looked it up online.
                                                            
                       MR. FRANKLIN
      (smiling)
Why am I not surprised?
                                                            
Another student, SABRINA, raises her hand.
                                                            
                       MR. FRANKLIN
      (pointing out)
Sabrina?
                                                            
                       SABRINA
I think the feud between the
Montagues and the Capulets
represented a sort of metaphor to
their relationship.
                                                            

30.

                       MR. FRANKLIN
Oh yeah? How so?
                                                            
                       SABRINA
Well, I mean look at people today.
Some couples have to go through
certain obstacles just to even get
approval of their relationship.
Whether it's race, gender, or even
age and religion. And I guess you
can say that the feud in the play,
kinda encompasses all of that.
                                                            
The whole class lets out a frustrated sigh, as if trying to
say "why'd you have to be so smart?"
                                                            
                       MR. FRANKLIN
      (to class)
All right, calm down everyone. I
like that. That's a very good
outlook, Sabrina. You see, class,
that's something that I wanted to
hear. I don't want you to tell me
what happened in the play. I want
you to tell me your interpretation
of what happened in the play.
                                                            
The door suddenly opens, and a girl walks in. This is ALICIA
ROJAS. Alicia, 18, is a very pretty Hispanic girl from a
Dominican background who, even though at the moment she is
kinda shy, is a very sweet yet feisty girl. She walks in
with her BACKPACK in one hand and a PIECE OF PAPER in the
other; while the entire class is watching her every
movement.
                                                            
                       MR. FRANKLIN
      (to Alicia)
May I help you?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Um...I'm new, and I think I'm in
your class.
                                                            
                       MR. FRANKLIN
Do you have a schedule?
                                                            
She hands him the piece of paper.
                                                            
                       MR. FRANKLIN
      (reading schedule)
Yes, you are.
      (hands it back)
Welcome, I'm Mister Franklin. Go
            (MORE)

31.

                       MR. FRANKLIN (cont'd)
ahead and take a seat.
                                                            
She makes her way to a seat.
                                                            
SLOW-MO
                                                            
As Alicia walks towards her destination, a dumbfounded
Anthony can't help but watch, with his jaw dropped -- he's
clearly infatuated by her. This catches Alicia's attention
and she smiles at him. She takes a seat next to another
girl, at a table directly behind Anthony's.
                                                            
END SLOW-MO
                                                            
                       MR. FRANKLIN
      (to class)
Okay. Now what I want you all to
do today is write down anything
that you thought of while reading
"Romeo & Juliet". Maybe you liked
a particular scene. Or maybe you
identified with a character. Or
maybe, just maybe, you discovered
something that no one knew about
the story. I want you to get
started right now.
                                                            
He sits at his desk. Alicia takes out a notebook from her
bag. She searches a bit for something else, but can't seem
to find it.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (to herself)
Damn! I forgot my pen.
                                                            
She turns to the girl next to her:
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Do you have a pen I could borrow?
                                                            
The girl simply shakes her head. Not knowing what to do,
Alicia reaches forward and taps on Anthony's shoulder. He
turns.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (whispering)
Hi. Do you have a pen I could
borrow?
                                                            
Anthony reaches into his bag and pulls one out for her.
                                                            

32.

                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Thank you.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
Y-You're welcome.
                                                            
She starts writing into her notebook and he turns back,
smiling to himself.
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (whispering)
What was that about?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
I don't know, man.
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (whispering)
Well, snap out of it! We got work
to do.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
Right.
                                                            
They resume writing their notes.
                                                            
 
INT. ENGLISH HIGH; CAFETERIA - DAY
                                                            
It's now lunch time. There's numerous STUDENTS either in the
LUNCH LINE or at the VENDING MACHINES, buying snacks. And if
they're not sitting down amongst friends, they're standing
around the area, conversing. Among those standing, are
Anthony, Alex & Manny. Anthony and Alex are both drinking a
CAN OF SODA.
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (to Manny)
Yo, so what you doin' after
school, man?
                                                            
                       MANNY
Man, I'm just fittin' to head home
after this. Hell, I feel like
ditching right now.
                                                            
                       ALEX
Yeah, I feel ya on that.
                                                            

33.

                       ANTHONY
      (motions to look)
Yo, look who showed up.
                                                            
Alex & Manny look forward.
                                                            
THEIR POV
                                                            
The trio see a boy walk in through the double doors, smiling
and talking to people. This boy is MARTIN JONES a.k.a.
TAM-TAM
                                                            
BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
Tam-Tam, 18, is an African-American boy, who is pretty slim
and wiry. He's a laid-back, fun loving kinda guy who seems
to have a knack for cursing a lot. He walks up to the boys,
bumping fists with all three of them.
                                                            
                       TAM-TAM
      (smiling)
Waz good, fellas!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Nigga, what'chu smiling for?
                                                            
                       MANNY
Come on, man! You know Tam's just
celebratin' 'cause he found a new
boyfriend in the joint.
                                                            
They laugh.
                                                            
                       TAM-TAM
      (smiling)
Shut up! Naw, not even, I'm just
happy to be out!
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (re: cops)
How long they keep you?
                                                            
                       TAM-TAM
One night. But it felt like
forever!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
When you get in?
                                                            
                       TAM-TAM
Third period. But I'm 'bout to
dip.
                                                            

34.

                       MANNY
Shit, me too.
                                                            
                       TAM-TAM
You whipin'?
                                                            
                       MANNY
Naw, my brother got the car today.
                                                            
                       TAM-TAM
Then, fuck that plan! Yo, y'all
seen my girl?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Tina? Yeah, she should be around.
                                                            
Suddenly, Alicia walks up to the group, and taps Anthony on
the arm.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Hey! I just wanted to give you
back your pen. Thank you.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (stammering)
Uh...yeah. Sure, no problem.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Okay. Well, see you around then.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
See you later.
                                                            
Alicia walks away. Anthony watches her walk away, while his
friends watch him do so. Anthony notices.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (dumbfounded)
What?
                                                            
                       MANNY
'The hell was that about?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
What?
                                                            
                       TAM-TAM
Nigga, don't act like you don't
know! You was a stuttering bitch
for a second there!
                                                            

35.

                       ALEX
Yo we got english class with that
chick, and he was the same way
then.
      (to Anthony)
You're sprung, dude!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
No, I'm not! Shut up!
                                                            
                       TAM-TAM
A'ight, whatever, yo. I'm 'bout to
go look for Tina.
                                                            
                       ALEX/MANNY
A'ight.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yeah, I'm about to go too.
                                                            
The school bell RINGS (OS).
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (to Manny &
       Anthony)
Check y'all later, man.
                                                            
They all go their own way, while every other student start
leaving the cafeteria.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. ENGLISH HIGH; CHEMISTRY CLASS - LATER
                                                            
There are few students in this classroom. The teacher, MR.
TRAVIS who is in his mid-30s, is writing the lesson plan at
the board. As before, here in this class there is either one
or two students at a table; rounding out to just about
twenty students in total. There are few scientific items at
each table such as BEAKERS, TEST TUBES, GOGGLES, etc.
                                                            
Anthony is about to head into class when he suddenly stops
at the door for a moment.
                                                            
ANTHONY'S POV
                                                            
He sees Alicia writing in her notebook as she sits at a
table. Quite possibly his table.
                                                            
BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
Anthony casually heads for the table. When he gets there,
Alicia looks up at him as he takes a seat next to her.
                                                            

36.

                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Oh, hey!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Hey.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Is this your table?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yeah.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Oh, I'm sorry. I'll just find
another seat --
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Oh no, it's cool. You can sit
there, if you want.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Okay, thanks. Hey, I'm Alicia, by
the way.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I'm Anthony. But my friends call
me Tony.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Hey, Tony. Sorry for just taking
your table, but I'm new here, you
know?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Really? Did you transfer here?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Yeah. I used to go to Westie.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Word? What brought you here?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
I moved to Hyde Park. My school
choices were either Hyde Park or
English High, and I wasn't feelin'
Hyde Park too much.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Well, no offense but you're
Dominican, right?
                                                            

37.

                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Yeah! How'd you know?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Well they don't call this school
"Bani High" for nothin'!
                                                            
She chuckles a bit.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Yeah, I heard about that. Are you
Hispanic?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yup! Honduran.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (Spanish;
       subtitled)
Ah, Honduran! I know a few
Honduran people. Do you speak
spanish?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (Spanish;
       subtitled)
Yeah, but not all the time. I hate
the way I sound; I sound stupid.
                                                            
They laugh.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
You don't sound stupid. Actually,
you're fluent.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Yeah, I know. But still...
                                                            
                       ALICIA
So how long you've been in this
school?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Since freshman year. Yup, all four
years!
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Hmm...well, maybe when you're not
busy, you could show me around?
                                                            

38.

                       ANTHONY
Yeah, sure. I can do that.
                                                            
She looks at him, smiling; he returns the smile.
                                                            
                       MR. TRAVIS (OS)
Okay, class, let's begin the
lesson.
                                                            
                                         DISSOLVE TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. BOSTON MEDICAL CENTER - ESTABLISHING - NIGHT
                                                            
We're looking at the front entrance of the hospital, where
there are plenty of vehicles in the parking lot -- CARS AND
AMBULANCES. There's also several people walking in and out
of the building; whether they're in wheelchairs or just
walking.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. BOSTON MEDICAL CENTER, PATIENTS ROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
It's an empty room. Here we see a uniformed Anthony, working
as an orderly. A fellow orderly, PAUL, is in the room as
well. Paul, mid-20s, is a very handsome and openly gay man,
whom Anthony is good friends with.
                                                            
They are both fixing up the bed, but Anthony can't help but
smile the entire time; until Paul makes notice of it:
                                                            
                       PAUL
      (smiling)
Okay, what's going on?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
What?
                                                            
                       PAUL
Why are you smiling so much?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Paul, can't a guy just smile,
without a care in the world?
                                                            
                       PAUL
Something's up. Nobody just smiles
for nothing.
                                                            

39.

                       ANTHONY
      (beat)
Okay. I met a girl in school,
today.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Really? Good for you, Sweetie.
What's her name?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Alicia. God, like there's just
something about her, you know?
She's sweet, funny, smart -- I
mean why can't other girls be more
like her?
                                                            
                       PAUL
Sounds to me like you like her.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Maybe, I don't know. It probably
wouldn't work out anyway, what
with me being a dad and all.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Nonsense! Jessica's an adorable
little girl. I'm sure Alicia would
like her alot.
                                                            
They start sweeping up the room.
                                                            
                       PAUL (cont'd)
I mean I'm gay, so I know a thing
or two on how women think.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (chuckles)
You're right. Women love children.
But I'm afraid, you know?
                                                            
                       PAUL
Of another "Nikki scenario"?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Exactly. She left a deep scar, and
I don't wanna get hurt like that
again.
                                                            
                       PAUL
I know what you mean. But, if this
girl is as great as you say she
is, then you have nothing to worry
about.
                                                            

40.

                       ANTHONY
I hope so.
                                                            
They finish up.
                                                            
                       PAUL
      (re: the room)
Okay, well I think that's it. Come
on, let's sign out.
                                                            
Paul checks off a list that's hanging on the door; they
leave afterwards.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. BOSTON MEDICAL CENTER, PARKING LOT - NIGHT
                                                            
Paul & Anthony walk through the parking lot. Anthony is
looking through a PIECE OF PAPER -- his work schedule.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (reading schedule)
Well, it looks like I have
tomorrow off.
                                                            
He pockets the schedule.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Hey, you mind keeping me company,
while my ride gets here?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Sure.
                                                            
They go and stand by a wall. Paul takes out a PACK OF
CIGARETTES. He puts one in his lips, then motions to
Anthony, offering one.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (motioning)
Naw, man, I'm cool.
                                                            
Paul LIGHTS his cigarette, then takes a drag.
                                                            
                       PAUL
      (re: Alicia)
Hey, so back on this girl. If you
really like this girl, then you
should just tell her that you have
a daughter. Let her reaction
dictate the outcome, okay?
                                                            

41.

                       ANTHONY
Okay, I'll do that.
                                                            
Suddenly, we hear a car HONKING it's horn (OS).
                                                            
                       PAUL
That's my ride.
                                                            
He takes a final drag of his cigarette, before putting it
out.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Good night, Tony. Remember what I
told you.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I will. Good night.
                                                            
Paul gets into the front seat of a SEDAN, with a male
driver. Through the windshield, Anthony sees them give each
other a small kiss. He smiles to himself as he walks away to
his car.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. RAMOS RESIDENCE - NIGHT
                                                            
Anthony enters through the front door. He locks it
afterwards. The house is quiet and dark, indicating that
everyone's asleep. He heads upstairs.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. RAMOS RESIDENCE, 2ND FLOOR HALLWAY
                                                            
Anthony tiptoes his way to a door. He quietly opens it.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. JESSICA'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Jessica has a very roomy bedroom. She has a small bed, a
desk to do her homework on, and a small tv sitting on the
dresser. There's also several DORA THE EXPLORER POSTERS on
the walls.
                                                            
ANGLE ON Anthony as he watches his daughter sleep. He smiles
to himself just before he closes the door.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            

42.

INT. RAMOS RESIDENCE, 2ND FLOOR HALLWAY
                                                            
Anthony quietly makes his way towards his room.
                                                            
                                         DISSOLVE TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. ENGLISH HIGH, SCHOOL PARKING LOT - DAY
                                                            
School has just let out. Anthony is walking towards his car.
We see Alicia walking through the lot with a group of GIRLS
- probably some friends - when she spots Anthony.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Tony!
      (to the girls)
Bye.
                                                            
He turns as she runs up to him.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Hey.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Hey. Today's Friday and I thought
maybe you'd wanna chill?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Uh...yeah, sure. But do you mind
if I do something first?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Go ahead.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Get in.
                                                            
They get into his car. Moments later, the Toyota pulls out
of the lot.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. HAPPY YEARS PRESCHOOL - DAY
                                                            
The Toyota is parked right out in front of the school.
Alicia is standing outside as all of the children are
getting out. Anthony walks out with Jessica, holding her
hand. They get to the car.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (to Anthony)
Aww...is this your little sister?
                                                            

43.

                       ANTHONY
Uh...no. I, uh...I want you to
meet my daughter.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
You have a daughter?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yeah.
                                                            
This is it, the moment of truth. Anthony is clearly nervous,
but Alicia crouches down to Jessica's eye-level.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Hi, I'm Alicia. I'm your dad's
friend. What your name, Sweetie?
                                                            
Jessica looks up at Anthony.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Go ahead, Honey.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (shyly)
My name is Jessica.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Nice to meet you, Jessica. I like
your book bag. Is that Dora the
Explorer?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Yes. I love her.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Me too! I watch it with my little
sister all the time.
                                                            
Jessica laughs.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Come on, Jessie, we gotta go.
                                                            
Anthony puts Jessica in the backseat of the car, fastening
her seat belt. Then, he and Alicia get in the front.
                                                            

44.

INT. TOYOTA - DAY
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (to Jessica)
You hungry, Baby?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Yes.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Okay. What do you want?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Uh...McDonald's!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Okay. How 'bout you, Alicia? I'm
buying.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Sure.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
All right then.
                                                            
They drive off.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. PLAYGROUND - LATE AFTERNOON
                                                            
Anthony's Toyota is parked in front of a playground where we
see numerous children playing, and their parents sitting
down, watching.
                                                            
Little Jessica is playing amongst the children in the
playground. Anthony and Alicia are sitting down on a bench,
sipping soda out of McDonald's cups -- clearly they just
ate.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
You never said you had a kid.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
You never asked. Besides, I was
kinda nervous on how you'd react.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Why? I love your daughter, she's
adorable!
                                                            

45.

                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Thank you.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
If you don't mind me asking,
where's her mother?
                                                            
Anthony's pain is clear through his facial expression.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (hesitantly)
She uh...she left me when Jessica
was born. Apparently, she never
wanted anything to do with me.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Oh. I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to
be nosy --
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Naw, it's cool. You didn't know.
It's just that I've never really
spoken about it since that day.
And thinking about it now, just
brings back bad memories. I just
feel bad that Jessie has to grow
up without her mom, you know?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Yeah, I know what you mean. My mom
died when I was seven.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I'm sorry to hear that.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Thanks. It's tough losing a
parent. And my dad remarried, so
it's even harder getting used to
that.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yeah, I know the feeling. My dad
died when I was nine. And my mom
found a new boyfriend when I was
twelve. Then, they got married
when I was fourteen. The guy's
cool and all, but I can never
bring myself to call him "Dad",
although he understands why.
                                                            

46.

                       ALICIA
That's good.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yeah.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Listen, my little sister's
birthday is coming up on Sunday.
She's turning six, and we're gonna
throw her a party. And I'd love it
if you and Jessie came.
                                                            
He looks off at Jessica for a beat, then turns to Alicia.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Sure. I think she would like that.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Cool.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Jessie!
                                                            
Jessica turns.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY (cont'd)
Time to go, Honey!
                                                            
She runs over to Anthony and Alicia, and they leave.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. ANTHONY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
It's late at night. Anthony is sound asleep in his bed.
Sleepily, Jessica walks into the room. She gently shakes her
father to wake him up.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (sleepily)
Hmm? What's wrong, Baby?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Daddy, I had a bad dream. Can I
sleep with you tonight?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Of course you can, Sweetie. Come
here.
                                                            

47.

He picks her up and puts her on the bed. She gets under the
covers.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Hey, Jessie?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Yes, Daddy?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
What'd you think of Alicia, today?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
I like her. She's everything, I
thought Mommy would be like.
                                                            
He smiles at this.
                                                            
                       JESSICA (cont'd)
Good night, Daddy.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Good night, Baby.
                                                            
He kisses her on the forehead, then they go to sleep.
                                                            
                                         DISSOLVE TO:
                                                            
 
INT. RAMOS RESIDENCE, LIVING ROOM - DAY
                                                            
It's a Saturday morning, and Jessica is sitting alone on the
couch, watching Saturday morning cartoons. Sleepily,
Anthony, still in his sleepwear, walks into the living room.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Good morning.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Good morning, Daddy.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Where's your grandparents?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
They went out.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Oh.
                                                            
He walks into the kitchen.
                                                            

48.

                       ANTHONY (OS)
      (to Jessica)
You eat yet?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Yes. Abuela made me cereal before
she left.
                                                            
Anthony walks back into the living room, with a bottle of
orange juice in his hand. He starts drinking it as he sits
on the couch with Jessica.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
What'chu watchin'?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Cartoons.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Did Abuela say when they were
coming back?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Nope. They just said they had
things to do, and they'll be back
later.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (looking around)
Huh. I guess we're gonna have to
find something to do until then.
                                                            
SERIES OF SHOTS
                                                            
A) Anthony & Jessica are playing NINTENDO WII SPORTS.

B) Anthony & Jessica are dancing to music.

C) Anthony is helping Jessica do her homework.
                                                            
END SERIES OF SHOTS
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. RAMOS RESIDENCE, LIVING ROOM - EVENING
                                                            
It's already nightfall. Anthony & Jessica are sitting on the
couch, watching a funny movie. Suddenly, they laugh at a
scene. Isabel walks in through the front door with Pablo
coming in after, holding a LARGE BOX OF PIZZA.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
We're home!
                                                            

49.

                       PABLO
And we brought pizza!
                                                            
Anthony & Jessica get up to greet them.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Hey, Mom. Hey, Pablo.
                                                            
                       ISABEL/PABLO
Hi, kids.
                                                            
                       PABLO
You two hungry?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yeah, I'm starving.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Me too!
                                                            
                       PABLO
Well, let's eat!
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. RAMOS RESIDENCE, KITCHEN - LATER
                                                            
Everyone's sitting at the dinner table, dining on pizza and
breadsticks. The pizza box is right in the middle of the
table, along with a bottle of soda which is almost empty.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
So how was your day, kids?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Pretty good. Did a little
homework, some dancing, played Wii
Sports.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Yeah. I beat Daddy twice on the
baseball game!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Yeah, whatever! I let you get
those wins.
      (to Isabel & Pablo)
How 'bout y'all two?
                                                            

50.

                       PABLO
Pretty good. We just made the
reservations for Vegas.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Oh yeah? How long will y'all be
gone?
                                                            
                       ISABEL
One whole week.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
That's good. Y'all deserve some
time off from work.
                                                            
                       PABLO
Yeah, I need a break from the real
estate business.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
And being a secretary over at that
law firm is starting to get a
little stressful. I wonder how my
boss is gonna do without me.
                                                            
They laugh a bit.
                                                            
                       PABLO
      (to Anthony)
So, have you thought about a
babysitter for Jessica?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Well, I think I'll just get Chris
to babysit her when I need him to.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
Chris? Are you sure he's the best
person to babysit?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Ma, he's my cousin. I trust him.
Besides, he's the only one I know
who'll do it for free.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
Okay. If you say so.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Well, I'm full. I think I'll go
upstairs and take a shower. I'll
see y'all later.
                                                            

51.

He gets up from the table and leaves.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. ROJAS RESIDENCE - ESTABLISHING - DAY
                                                            
The Rojas House is a quaint little one-story house out in
the middle of Hyde Park. It has a decent-sized front yard,
with a stone walkway leading to the front door. Although
there is also a backyard, this house has no drive way unlike
the Ramos Residence.
                                                            
Loud music can be heard BLASTING through speakers inside the
house -- this is a Spanish party at it's best! There are
some ADULTS outside the house, either conversing or
drinking. There are also many KIDS running around, playing.
Anthony's Toyota finds a parking space in front of the
house.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. TOYOTA
                                                            
Anthony and Jessica are certainly dressed for the occasion.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
This is where Alicia lives?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yeah, I think so.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Our house is bigger.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (chuckles)
That's 'cause we live in a
different neighborhood, Baby.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
I know.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
You ready to have a good time,
Sweetie?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Yes!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Let's go then.
                                                            

52.

They get out of the car.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. ROJAS RESIDENCE
                                                            
Anthony & Jessica walk up to the front door. He rings the
DOORBELL. Seconds later, Alicia opens the door.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Tony, you came!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Hey.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Hi, Jessie!
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Hi, Alicia.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
You look pretty today. I like your
outfit.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Thank you. My grandma bought it
for me.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Well, it looks nice. Come in, come
in!
                                                            
They head inside.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. ROJAS RESIDENCE
                                                            
The Rojas home seems bigger inside than it looks outside.
Here you get the same homely vibe as you would in the Ramos
home. The only difference is the Dominican decor that is
found all over the house.
                                                            
Inside, the house is packed and the music is playing a bit
louder than it sounded outside. The same thing that we saw
outside is happening indoors as well, only with more
children playing. Alicia leads Anthony & Jessica through the
sea of people into:
                                                            

53.

                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. ROJAS RESIDENCE, LIVING ROOM
                                                            
There is a group of people sitting in the living room. This
is Alicia's immediate family. Her father, ROBERTO (55), is
sitting on the couch. He has gray hair and a moustache, and
is an easy-going guy. His wife, MARIA (50), is sitting on
the couch with him; she is a kind woman. Alicia's oldest
sister, ANNA, is a pretty woman in her late-20s; whom is
sitting in a chair. Alicia's chubby older brother, ANGEL
(25), is standing around drinking a BEER.
                                                            
The family is having a good time conversing, when Alicia
walks in with Anthony & Jessica.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (to her family)
Everybody, I want you to meet
someone.
      (pointing out)
Anthony, that's my dad, Roberto.
His wife, and my stepmom, Maria.
My older sister, Anna. And that's
my older brother, Angel. Family,
this is my friend Anthony, from
school.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (Spanish;
       subtitled)
Nice to meet you.
                                                            
                       ROBERTO
      (Spanish;
       subtitled)
Come on in.
                                                            
                       MARIA
      (Spanish;
       subtitled)
Who's this adorable little girl?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (Spanish;
       subtitled)
Oh. This is my daughter, Jessica.
      (to Jessica)
Say hi.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (Spanish)
Hi.
                                                            

54.

Suddenly a little girl comes into the room. This is ANDREA,
6, Alicia's younger sister and the birthday girl.
                                                            
                       ANDREA
      (smiling)
Hi.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (realizing)
Oh. This is my little sister,
Andrea.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Hi.
                                                            
Andrea turns to Jessica:
                                                            
                       ANDREA
You wanna come play with us?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Okay.
                                                            
                       ANDREA
Come on.
                                                            
The two girls run off.
                                                            
                       ANNA
Take a seat, Anthony.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Thanks.
                                                            
He sits in a nearby chair.
                                                            
                       ANGEL
So, tell us about yourself.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
What do you wanna know?
                                                            
                       ANNA
Anything.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (clears throat)
Well...I have a five-year-old
daughter, as you all saw. I'm
nineteen. I go to the same school
as Alicia; we have english and
chemistry together.
                                                            

55.

                       ROBERTO
Do you work?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Uh...yes. Yes I do. I work as an
orderly, over at Boston Medical.
                                                            
                       MARIA
Where do you live?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I live in Dorchester.
                                                            
                       ANNA
How'd you get here?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I drive.
                                                            
                       ANGEL
Do you drink?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
No --
                                                            
                       ANGEL
You smoke?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
No, never. Why do I feel like I'm
being interrogated?
                                                            
                       ANNA
Don't worry, we do this to every
boy Alicia meets.
                                                            
Everyone laughs, including Anthony, although he is a bit
nervous.
                                                            
                       ANNA (cont'd)
Just relax, okay? We're not gonna
hurt you.
                                                            
                       ROBERTO
So, what grade are you in?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I'm in the twelfth grade.
                                                            
                       ROBERTO
Are you going to graduate?
                                                            

56.

                       ANTHONY
I hope so.
                                                            
                       ANNA
What are you gonna do after high
school?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Well, I'm not exactly sure yet,
but college is a definite. Right
now, I'm looking into Emerson
College. I want a career in film,
and Emerson's looking like the
best school for me. But at the
moment, I'm focused more on my
daughter than myself.
                                                            
                       ROBERTO
      (nodding)
I can respect a man who puts his
family before himself.
                                                            
                       ANGEL
In other words, you passed the
test. Congradulations, man.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (jokingly)
So, what do I get?
                                                            
They laugh.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. PARK - EVENING
                                                            
It's almost sundown as Anthony & Alicia are slowly walking
through a park. The park is pretty much empty, leaving them
all alone.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Your family's kinda cool.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
You think so? I don't know, they
can seem pretty weird sometimes.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
That can be a good thing. I would
hate being in a "perfect" family.
Everything would seem boring.
                                                            

57.

                       ALICIA
      (chuckles)
Yeah. I love my family, but
sometimes they tend to piss me
off. Like even though I have my
license, I just wish I had a car,
you know?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Why you say that?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
I say that because if there ever
was a time where I got upset; I
could just say "fuck it", and just
pick up my keys and go somewhere.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Now, suddenly, I feel like shit
for having a car.
                                                            
They laugh.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (beat)
I remember one day, when I was a
kid...I got really upset over my
dad dying. Like there was this
crucifix hanging over my bed, and
I remember cursing at it one night
saying things like I wanted to
die, you know?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
What happened then?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I'm still here. After my dad died,
I felt like there was nothing in
the world that could make me happy
again, then Jessica was born. And
everything felt right again. I
mean being a single father is
tough...but it's also the only
thing that has kept me sane, for
the last five years.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Does Jessica know anything about
her mom?
                                                            

58.

                       ANTHONY
She knows that she left. But
that's about as far as I'm willing
to go on the subject.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
What was her name?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Nikki.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Well, not only did Nikki lose her
daughter, but she lost someone
really special, as well.
                                                            
They stop. Anthony looks at her, then slowly leans in for a
tender kiss. After the kiss:
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (softly)
I've got something to confess.
I've been feelin' you these past
few days.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (softly)
I've been feelin' you too.
                                                            
She places her hand on his cheek, caressing it, then gives
him another passionate kiss.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. ROJAS RESIDENCE - NIGHT
                                                            
The party has died down, and now there's nobody outside
anymore. Anthony is carrying Jessica in his arms, who has
fallen asleep. Alicia is walking him to his car. He puts
Jessica in the backseat of the car.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
So, I'll see you in school?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Mmm-hmm.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Okay. Good night.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Good night.
                                                            

59.

He gives her a quick kiss just before getting into the
driver's seat of the Toyota. Next, Anthony drives off, and
Alicia is left smiling to herself. She heads back inside.
                                                            
SERIES OF SHOTS
                                                            
A) Anthony & Alicia are at his home, laughing and having
dinner with his family.

B) Anthony & Alicia are amongst his friends in the school
cafeteria, having a good time.

C) Anthony & Alicia are in chemistry class together,
talking.

D) Anthony & Alicia are in the Toyota late at night,
kissing.
                                                            
END SERIES OF SHOTS
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. ANTHONY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
It's late at night. Anthony is lying on his bed, talking on
his cell phone. He is wearing a t-shirt and gym shorts --
his sleepwear. Naturally, the person on the other end of the
line is Alicia.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
So, what's your favorite movie?
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. ALICIA'S BEDROOM - SAME
                                                            
Alicia is lying on her bed, talking through her cellphone,
wearing a long t-shirt and pajama bottoms. Her bedroom is
the female opposite of Anthony's.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
This movie, I don't know if you've
heard of it, but it's called "The
Sandlot".
                                                            
INTERCUTTING
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Get the hell outta here!
                                                            

60.

                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
What? I'm Dominican and I love
baseball, big surprise!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Naw, it's not even that. That's MY
favorite movie!
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Cool. What's your favorite food?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Italian. You?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Tsss...damn. Mine's is Chinese.
                                                            
They chuckle.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Okay. Since you like baseball,
what's your favorite team?
      (smiling)
And if you say the Yankees, I'm
hanging up.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (teasing)
Yankees.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Goodbye!
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Come on, I'm a hometown girl! So
the Red Sox, of course.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
That's what I thought.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Who's your favorite artist?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
What, music?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (sarcastically)
No, music!
                                                            

61.

                       ANTHONY
      (chuckles)
Ain't got one. You?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Aventura.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Why am I not surprised?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
What, you don't like Spanish
music? Some Honduran you are!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I don't like it, but I don't hate
it either. It's just that I grew
up listening to Hip Hop most of my
life. Like 2Pac and Jay-Z and the
Wu-Tang Clan.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
I see...
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yeah.
                                                            
A long beat goes by until:
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Tony? Baby, you there?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yeah, I'm here. I was just
thinkin'.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
'Bout what?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smirking)
What are you wearing?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (laughs)
Mister Ramos, I think you're
getting a little fresh there!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Well you are my girl, Miss Rojas,
so I don't see why not. So, what
are you wearing?
                                                            

62.

                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Clothes.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
What kind of clothes?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
A tee and pajama pants -- I hope
you're not touching yourself as
I'm telling you this!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Not yet.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
You better hope your daughter
ain't hearing you talk like this.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Naw. She's asleep.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Shouldn't you be too?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smart-aleck)
Last I checked, you called me.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
That don't mean nothin'!
      (beat)
So, you wanna come see me
tomorrow?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
What's tomorrow, Saturday?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Mmm-hmm.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I can't. I gotta take my folks to
the airport.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
What for?
                                                            

63.

                       ANTHONY
Wedding anniversary. They're goin'
to Vegas for a week. Then after
that, I gotta work.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (disappointed)
Aww...so when can I have you for
myself?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Soon, Baby, soon.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Okay.
      (yawns)
Well, I'm tired. I'm goin' to
sleep.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Okay, then. Good night.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Night-night.
                                                            
They hang up. Anthony just lies back, smiling to himself.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
INT. LOGAN AIRPORT, BOSTON - DAY
                                                            
Anthony & Jessica are with Isabel & Pablo, as they are
getting ready to board their flight. Isabel is giving her
son instructions on what to do for the week, but Anthony is
clearly bored with this:
                                                            
                       ISABEL
Now, I let your aunt know that
we'll be gone, so she agreed to
babysit for you. I left about a
hundred dollars on the kitchen
table, as emergency money. The
number of the hotel is on the
fridge, just in case --
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Okay, Ma. You explained everything
to me two days ago, remember?
                                                            

64.

                       ISABEL
I know, but I don't want anything
bad to happen. Especially to
Jessica.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Don't worry, Abuela, we'll be
fine.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
I hope so, Sweetie.
                                                            
                       PA ANNOUNCER (OS)
Now boarding flight
one-twenty-one, to Las Vegas.
                                                            
                       PABLO
      (to Isabel)
Amor, that's us.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
      (to Anthony &
       Jessica)
Okay. Now you two be good!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
We will, Mom.
                                                            
                       PABLO
      (to Anthony &
       Jessica)
Bye!
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (waving)
Bye-Bye!
                                                            
Isabel & Pablo board the plane. Anthony & Jessica leave.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. APARTMENT BUILDING - ESTABLISHING - NIGHT
                                                            
A run-down apartment building in the middle of Dorchester;
with GRAFFITI on the walls, and many SHADY-LOOKING PEOPLE
loitering. Anthony's Toyota is parked right outside.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. APARTMENT BUILDING, 2ND FLOOR HALLWAY - NIGHT
                                                            
Anthony, wearing his work uniform, is holding Jessica's hand
as they come up the stairs. Jessica has a backpack, which is

65.

clearly full. They walk up to a door at the end of the
hallway. Anthony KNOCKS. Moments later, a big guy with long
hair, a prison-build, and looks of a gang-banger, answers
the door. This is CHRIS, 21, Anthony's cousin.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yo, waz good, Chris.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Waz good.
      (smiling)
Hey, Jessie.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Hi, Uncle Chris.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY (cont'd)
I'm here to drop her off. I hope
you don't mind.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Naw, it's cool. My mother told me
the situation. You know we're
always willing to help.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
A'ight, cool. Well, she got her
toothbrush, pajamas -- all the
things she needs.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Yeah, yeah. When you coming for
her?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Well I gotta work the graveyard
shift. So, I'll be here in the
morning.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
A'ight then.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (to Jessica)
Okay, well I gotta go to work,
Baby. But I'll see you in the
morning, okay?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Okay.
                                                            

66.

                       ANTHONY
I love you.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
I love you too, Daddy.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Come give me a hug.
                                                            
She does.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY (cont'd)
Okay, well I'll see you in the
morning. Don't give your uncle a
hard time, okay?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Okay.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yo, man, thanks a lot.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
No doubt.
                                                            
They bump fists. Anthony waves at his daughter just before
leaving, and she does the same. Then, he heads downstairs.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Uncle Chris, can I play your Xbox?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (smiling)
Yeah, come on!
                                                            
They head inside, and Chris closes the door.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. BOSTON MEDICAL, EMPLOYEE LOCKER ROOM
                                                            
Paul is already in the locker room, putting his stuff away
in his locker as he gets ready for work. Anthony walks in.
He walks over to his locker and puts his backpack away.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Hey, Paul.
                                                            
                       PAUL
Hey, Tony. How're you doin'?
                                                            

67.

                       ANTHONY
Fuckin' tired, man. Had to take my
folks to the airport, then after
that I had to go grocery shopping
with Jessie. And now I'm at work.
                                                            
                       PAUL
I hear you. My boyfriend and I
went looking for an apartment,
today. And we spent most of the
time arguing.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (chuckles)
So no luck, huh?
                                                            
                       PAUL
      (shakes his head)
Nope. But hey, let's try to take
it easy tonight.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yeah, man. Let's do that.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. BOSTON MEDICAL, PATIENTS ROOM - LATER
                                                            
Anthony comes to the room while pushing a cart. The door is
wide open, but he KNOCKS anyway.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Hello?
                                                            
He walks into the room. This is a hospital room that would
usually be occupied by two patients but apparently there's
only one patient, an elderly man named JIM GRIFFIN. The
curtain has been closed between the beds but Mr. Griffin's
TELEVISION is on, causing Anthony to check in.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Oh. Sorry for barging in, but I
wanted to see if anyone was here.
                                                            
                       MR. GRIFFIN
Oh no, it's fine.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Well, I'm just here to throw out
the trash, so I'll be on my way --
                                                            

68.

                       MR. GRIFFIN
Oh, hey, if it isn't much trouble,
would you mind keeping me company
for a bit?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Well...I wish I could, but I'm not
really supposed to.
                                                            
                       MR. GRIFFIN
Please? Just for a little while.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Well, you are last on my list, so
I guess I could spare a few
minutes.
                                                            
                       MR. GRIFFIN
Thanks. What's your name, son?
                                                            
Anthony takes a seat in a nearby chair.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Anthony.
                                                            
                       MR. GRIFFIN
Nice to meet you, Anthony. I'm Jim
Griffin. But, please, call me Jim.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Okay, Jim.
                                                            
                       MR. GRIFFIN
Thank you for staying. Nobody ever
visits me.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Why is that, sir?
                                                            
                       MR. GRIFFIN
Well to be honest Anthony, I was a
mean old man. You see, I never
really was around for my family
when they needed me. And I now
when I could use somebody, no
one's around, you know? I guess
you could say I kinda deserve it.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
No one deserves anything like
that. What brought you here?
                                                            

69.

                       MR. GRIFFIN
I'm dying of cancer. You know, I
never was a religious man but now
that I lie here in this bed...I've
done nothing but pray to God
everyday. Just hoping that I can
be given the strength to overcome
my condition, and set things
right. And I've hurt a lot of
people.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I see what you mean....
                                                            
                       MR. GRIFFIN
Tell me, do you have a girlfriend?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yes, sir, I do.
                                                            
                       MR. GRIFFIN
Take good care of her, kid. The
last thing you wanna do is piss
off quite possibly the only person
in the world, who gives a damn
about you. Trust me, I know. I was
married once.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
"Hell hath no fury like a woman
scorned", huh?
                                                            
                       MR. GRIFFIN
Exactly.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Well, everything's been pretty
good so far, so I don't think we
have to worry 'bout anything, Jim.
                                                            
                       MR. GRIFFIN
Hey, I'm only telling you this
'cause you seem like a good
person.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Well, I appreciate it, sir. But
now I have to get going.
                                                            
Anthony gets up from his seat.
                                                            

70.

                       MR. GRIFFIN
One more thing, Anthony. If you
ever have children, always be
there for them...no matter what.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (nodding)
Thanks for the advice, Jim. Have a
good night.
                                                            
He takes the trash can on his way out.
                                                            
                                         DISSOLVE TO:
                                                            
EXT. APARTMENT BUILDING - ESTABLISHING - DAWN
                                                            
Anthony's Toyota is parked right outside Chris' apartment
building. This time there's no one loitering going on
outside.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. CHRIS' APARTMENT - DAWN
                                                            
There's KNOCKING (OS) at the door. Chris walks over and
opens the door. Anthony walks in.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Hey, what's up, Chris.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
'Sup, Tony.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Where's Jessie?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Oh, she's in the room, sleepin'.
Come on.
                                                            
Chris closes the door, then leads Anthony into:
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. CHRIS' BEDROOM
                                                            
Chris' bedroom is a little bit DISORGANIZED but has enough
space for a WEIGHT BENCH. Jessica is in her pajamas,
sleeping on his bed. Anthony gets her backpack, then picks
her up.
                                                            

71.

                       CHRIS
Yo, I wanted to ask you somethin'.
Me and Freddy were thinking about
headin' over to the movies, and we
wanted to know if you wanted to
come along?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
When?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Sometime this week. I'll let you
know.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
A'ight, well do you mind if I
bring my girl along?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Go ahead, bring her.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
A'ight, then. Hit me up when it
happens.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
No problem, man. Peace.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Peace.
                                                            
Anthony carries Jessica as he leaves the apartment.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
INT. ENGLISH HIGH; HALLWAYS - DAY
                                                            
Anthony is at his locker, taking out books for his next
class. Alicia walks up to him.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Hey, Babe.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Hey.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
How was your weekend?
                                                            

72.

                       ANTHONY
It was cool. Jessie and I went out
to the beach.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Why didn't you call me? I would've
gone with y'all.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (closing his
       locker)
Sorry. What'd you do?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Nothin' much. Anna took me with
her to her man's house and we just
chilled there.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Cool. Hey, listen, my cousin
invited me to the movies with him
and his boy. And I wanted to see
if you wanted to come with us.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Sure. When?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I don't know yet. But I'll let you
know.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Okay. Well I'm off to my next
class, so I'll see you later.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Okay.
                                                            
They kiss then part ways just as the school bell RINGS (OS).
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. ENGLISH HIGH, ALGEBRA CLASS - DAY
                                                            
The entire class are solving the math problems on the
chalkboard, in their notebook. MR. CABRERA, a short Hispanic
teacher in his mid-40s, is sitting at his desk correcting
papers. Anthony, Tam-Tam & Alex are sitting together at a
table in the back of the classroom, writing in their
notebook what's on the board. They whisper throughout their
entire conversation:
                                                            

73.

                       ALEX
      (to Anthony)
Yo, so how long your folks gonna
be gone?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
All this week.
                                                            
                       TAM-TAM
      (whispering)
Shit, nigga! With the house to
myself, I'd be gettin' laid all
week if I was you!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
Nigga, is that all you think
about, gettin' laid!?
                                                            
                       TAM-TAM
      (whispering)
Hell-mothafuckin'-yes!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
Whatever, man. Yo, Alex, I need
you to do me a favor.
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (whispering)
What'chu need?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
Can you babysit for me, later this
week? I'm goin' to the movies with
my cousin.
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (whispering)
Get Alicia to do it.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
Can't. She's coming with me. And
besides, Jessie loves comin' over
to your crib and playing with Lil
Cesar.
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (whispering)
A'ight, well it ain't entirely up
to me. But, I'll talk to my
            (MORE)

74.

                       ALEX (cont'd)
brother and his girl.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
A'ight, cool. Thanks, man.
                                                            
                       TAM-TAM
      (whispering)
What y'all goin' to see anyway?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
I dunno. But knowing my cousin,
probably some action flick that's
out.
                                                            
                       TAM-TAM
      (whispering)
Dawg, you make that sound like a
bad thing. What, you wanna see a
chick flick?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
No! It's just -- I don't know!
                                                            
Tam-Tam and Alex laugh.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yo, Mister Cabrera! We gotta do
all the problems on the board?
                                                            
                       MR. CABRERA
Yes, Anthony.
                                                            
                       TAM-TAM
      (whispering)
Yo, so Tony, you and Alicia've
been together for a while now. You
wax that ass yet?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
Tam, make another remark about my
girl like that again, and I'll
deck you in the face.
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (smiling;
       whispering)
Yeah, Tam-Tam, he's very
protective over her. Just the
other day, in english class, I
            (MORE)

75.

                       ALEX (cont'd)
made a comment about her body; and
he got heated and punched the shit
outta my arm!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
Nigga, you was checkin' her out!
And you're already a hound dog as
it is!
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (smiling;
       whispering)
I know!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
Yo, Alicia's different, though.
She's real. She ain't like none of
these hood rats, you see in
school.
                                                            
                       TAM-TAM
      (whispering)
Naw, you're right, she's cool. I
was just messin' wit 'chu,
anyways.
                                                            
Anthony just shakes his head - just another day with the
boys.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. RAMOS RESIDENCE - ESTABLISHING - EVENING
                                                            
The sun is setting, and Anthony's car is parked in front.
There are numerous kids outside, playing on the street.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. RAMOS RESIDENCE, LIVING ROOM - EVENING
                                                            
Anthony is sitting on the couch, watching TV. Jessica is
sitting on his lap.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Daddy, I'm hungry.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
You're hungry? What do you want?
                                                            

76.

                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Uh...pizza!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Pizza? Again? Honey, we had pizza
yesterday. Don't you want Chinese
food or somethin'?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
No, I want pizza.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Well, I think you've had enough
pizza. So, pick something else.
                                                            
She starts to do a little sad face -- EVERY girl's secret
weapon for a guy.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Jessie, I'm not falling for that
face again. I'm immune!
                                                            
She keeps it up a little longer, until:
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (giving in)
Okay, let's go get the menu.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Yay!
                                                            
He picks her up and starts carrying her to the kitchen,
until the doorbell RINGS (OS).
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (to himself)
I wonder who that is.
                                                            
Still carrying Jessica, he opens the door. It's Alicia.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Hey, Tony.
                                                            
She kisses Anthony.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Oooooh!
                                                            

77.

                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Hi, Jessica.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Hi, Alicia.
                                                            
Alicia kisses her on the cheek.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Baby, what're you doin' here?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
I was nearby, running errands with
my sister, and I asked her to drop
me off here. She's gonna come get
me later.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Oh. Well we was about to order
some food, you hungry?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Sure. What's for dinner?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Pizza!
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (chuckles)
Okay, then. Let's go.
                                                            
They head into the kitchen.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. RAMOS RESIDENCE, KITCHEN - LATER
                                                            
Anthony, Alicia & Jessica are sitting at the dinner table
eating out of a LARGE BOX OF PIZZA that's in the middle of
the table. There's a two-liter BOTTLE OF SODA there, as
well. The trio have a plate in front of them, with one SLICE
each.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (to Anthony)
So what do you guys do, since your
parents are away?
                                                            

78.

                       ANTHONY
Our usual thing. Go to school,
come home, do homework, watch TV,
sleep.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Well, yeah, but besides that?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Sometimes, Daddy takes me to the
park or we go to Boston Bowl. On
Sunday, we went to the beach.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Really? How was it?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
It was fun. I learned how to swim!
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
That's good!
                                                            
Suddenly, the phone RINGS.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I'll get it.
                                                            
He gets up and answers the phone.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Hello?
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. HOTEL ROOM; LAS VEGAS - NIGHT
                                                            
Pablo is on the phone in his & Isabel's hotel room. We can
see the LAS VEGAS NIGHTLIFE in the background.
                                                            
                       PABLO
      (into phone)
Tony? It's me, Pablo. Your mother
told me to check up on you two.
                                                            
INTERCUTTING
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Oh, hey Pablo. Yeah, we're fine.
How're you guys doin'?
                                                            

79.

                       PABLO
      (into phone)
We're good. Your mother is
downstairs, gambling.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling; into
       phone)
That's good. Y'all better not come
back broke!
                                                            
                       PABLO
      (chuckles; into
       phone)
No, we won't. Hey, put Jessie on.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Sure. Jessie, Abuelo wants to talk
to you.
                                                            
Jessica gets out of her seat and walks up to Anthony. He
hands her the phone.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling; into
       phone)
Hi, Abuelo.
                                                            
                       PABLO
      (Spanish; into
       phone)
Hi, Honey. How're you doing?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (Spanish; into
       phone)
Good.
                                                            
                       PABLO
      (Spanish; into
       phone)
Are you behaving yourself?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (Spanish; into
       phone)
Yes.
                                                            
                       PABLO
      (into phone)
I hope so. Put your father back
on.
                                                            

80.

                       JESSICA
      (into phone)
Okay, bye Abuelo.
      (to Anthony)
Daddy?
                                                            
She hands Anthony the phone.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Yeah?
                                                            
                       PABLO
      (into phone)
Okay, Anthony, everything seems to
be under control. We'll see you in
three days.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Okay, Pablo, tell my mom I said
hi.
                                                            
                       PABLO
      (into phone)
Okay, I will.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Bye.
                                                            
Anthony hangs up.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. RAMOS RESIDENCE, LIVING ROOM - LATER
                                                            
After eating dinner, Anthony & Alicia are sitting on the
couch, watching a movie. Alicia is holding Jessica in her
arms, who has fallen asleep.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (whispering)
Baby, Jessie fell asleep.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
She did? Let's put her to bed,
then.
                                                            
He takes Jessica off her hands, then carries her upstairs.
Alicia follows.
                                                            

81.

                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. JESSICA'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Anthony, carrying Jessica, walks into the room first. Alicia
stands by the door. Anthony places his daughter in bed, and
tucks her in. Afterwards, he kisses her on the forehead.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
Good night, Sweetie.
                                                            
He shuts off the lights then leaves, closing the door
behind.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. JESSICA'S BEDROOM
                                                            
After closing the door, Anthony finds Alicia just standing
in the hallway, gazing at him. Moments later, she starts
kissing him passionately. Next, she pulls away. She glances
at Anthony's bedroom, then back at him; motioning. Anthony
gets the hint. He starts kissing her passionately, as he
carries her to his bedroom.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. ANTHONY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Anthony places Alicia on his bed, then takes off his shirt.
She does the same, revealing her bra. He gets on top of her
as they continue to kiss. He starts kissing her neck, slowly
making his way down between her breasts. Alicia has her eyes
closed, enjoying the moment. We stay on her, as we HEAR
Anthony UNZIPPING her pants. He comes back up, and kisses
her -- both are panting and moaning. Anthony rolls over,
allowing Alicia to get on top. They continue making love for
a while, until they both climax. She drops her head onto his
shoulder, and whispers in his ear:
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (in Spanish)
I love you.
                                                            
Anthony is breathless and at a loss of words.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. RAMOS RESIDENCE - NIGHT
                                                            
Anthony & Alicia, fully dressed, are outside in the middle
of the front yard. Anna is in an ACURA, waiting in front.
                                                            

82.

                       ALICIA
So, I'll see you in school
tomorrow?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Mmm-hmm.
                                                            
He slowly leans in and kisses her.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (softly)
Ohh...I don't wanna leave!
                                                            
She attempts to leave, but he gently pulls her back by the
hand. He kisses her again.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (in Spanish;
       subtitled)
Stay with me.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (in Spanish;
       subtitled)
I can't...
                                                            
She kisses him one more time, then whispers in his ear:
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (in Spanish;
       subtitled)
Good night.
                                                            
He finally lets her go. Alicia walks towards her sister's
car, and gets in. Anthony heads inside, smiling to himself.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. ANNA'S ACURA - NIGHT
                                                            
Alicia sits in the passenger's seat, smiling to herself.
                                                            
                       ANNA
What'chu smilin' for?
                                                            
Alicia doesn't answer. Instead, she looks back at the house.
She's in love.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 

83.

EXT. PLAYGROUND - DAY
                                                            
The playground is full of children playing. Jessica is on a
SWING, and Anthony is gently pushing her. Suddenly, his
cellphone RINGS (OS) and he answers it, while still pushing
Jessica.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Hello?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (from phone)
Yo, Tony! It's Chris.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Waz good?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (into phone)
That movie thing? It's happening
tomorrow night. Just letting you
know.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
A'ight, cool.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (from phone)
Peace.
                                                            
Anthony hangs up, then pockets his cellphone.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Jessie, you want some ice cream?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Yeah!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Come on then.
                                                            
He picks her up then carries her back to the car.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. ICE CREAM PARLOR - DAY
                                                            

84.

Anthony & Jessica are sitting at a table of a half-empty ice
cream parlor, eating BANANA SPLITS. Jessica is eating her
ice cream fast, showing no signs of stopping, until:
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Slow down, Baby. You don't wanna
get brain-freeze, do you?
                                                            
She starts eating slower.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (beat)
Hey, so what do you think of
Alicia?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
I love her, Daddy. She's the best!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
I'll tell her you said that. You
know, she loves you too.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
I know.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
You do?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Mmm-hmm. Everybody loves me!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (laughs)
Oh wow! You're conceited, Jessie!
You know what that means?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Mmm-mmm.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
It means you think of yourself too
much.
                                                            
Jessica can't help but smile.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY (cont'd)
Hey listen, Daddy has to go out
tomorrow night. You don't mind
sleeping over Uncle Alex's house,
do you?
                                                            

85.

                       JESSICA
Is Cesar gonna be there?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Of course he will.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Then okay.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Okay. Then, finish your ice cream
and we'll go to the mall after
this, okay?
                                                            
They continue eating.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. CLOTHING STORE - LATE AFTERNOON
                                                            
Jessica is sitting down in a chair, waiting in front of a
fitting room. Anthony steps out of the fitting room, wearing
a BRAND-NEW OUTFIT. He models for his daughter.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
What do you think, Jessie?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
You look nice, Daddy. I like it.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
You think it looks good on me?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Yeah.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Okay, then I'll take it. Wait
here, okay?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Okay.
                                                            
He heads back into the fitting room.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            

86.

INT. SNEAKER STORE - LATER
                                                            
Anthony & Jessica are at an urban sneaker store. A MALE
CASHIER is waiting on Anthony as he pays for a NEW PAIR OF
SNEAKERS.
                                                            
                       CASHIER
So, the total comes out to
ninety-eight dollars, and
eighty-five cents.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Y'all take debit cards?
                                                            
                       CASHIER
Sure.
                                                            
Anthony takes his ATM CARD out of his wallet and hands it to
the cashier. The cashier SWIPES the card, makes a keystroke
on the REGISTER, then hands the card back to Anthony; who
pockets it. The cashier waits for the RECEIPT to print out,
then places it on the counter, along with a PEN.
                                                            
                       CASHIER
      (pointing out)
Sign here please.
                                                            
Anthony does so, then the cashier hands him the receipt.
                                                            
                       CASHIER (cont'd)
Okay. Have a nice day.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Thanks.
                                                            
As they walk out:
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Daddy, can I get a new toy?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Sure, Baby. Let's go.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. TOY STORE
                                                            
Anthony is waiting at the front of the store, along with a
YOUNG FEMALE CASHIER, who is behind the counter. Jessica
walks up to him with the toy she has chosen, a DORA THE
EXPLORER DOLL.
                                                            

87.

                       ANTHONY
      (re: toy)
That's what you want?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Mmm-hmm.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Okay, put it on the counter.
                                                            
Jessica does so. Anthony takes out his ATM card from his
wallet.
                                                            
                       CASHIER
      (scanning item)
Aww...I think that's sweet that
you're spending time with your
little sister.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Thanks. But, um, she's not my
sister. She's my daughter.
                                                            
                       CASHIER
Oh. Well, she's really pretty.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Thank you.
                                                            
The cashier bags the toy, then as she hands it to her:
                                                            
                       CASHIER
      (smiling)
You're welcome, Honey!
                                                            
Anthony pays with his ATM card, then, after getting it back
with the receipt, he and Jessica leave.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. RAMOS RESIDENCE - ESTABLISHING - NIGHT
                                                            
Anthony's Toyota pulls up in front of the house.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. TOYOTA - NIGHT
                                                            
Anthony shuts off the engine. Jessica is sitting in the
passenger's seat, playing with her new toy.
                                                            

88.

                       ANTHONY
Now Jessie, are you sure you're
fine with being over at Uncle
Alex's house, tomorrow night?
Because I can stay home if you
don't wanna go.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (playing)
It's okay, Daddy. I wanna go.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Okay, then. Let me make a phone
call.
                                                            
He takes out his cellphone, then dials a number. After one
RING, we hear ALICIA'S VOICE (OS).
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (from phone)
Hello?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Hello, Alicia?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (from phone)
Hey, Baby. What's up?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
You still wanna go to the movies?
'Cause it's happening tomorrow.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (from phone)
Yeah, okay then. Can you pick me
up?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Yeah, I'll scoop you up at seven.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (from phone)
Okay, I'll see you then. Bye.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Bye.
                                                            

89.

He hangs up the line, then dials another number. Two RINGS
go by, then we hear ALEX'S VOICE (OS).
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (from phone)
Yo!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Yo, Alex! Waz good!
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (from phone)
Nothin' man, what's poppin'?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Yo, can you do me that favor, I
asked?
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (from phone)
Uh...yeah. I spoke to Julio and
Claudia -- todo 'ta bien.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
A'ight then, thanks man.
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (from phone)
Yeah, no problem, T.
                                                            
They hang up.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (to Jessica)
Okay, let's head in.
                                                            
They get out of the car, and head inside.
                                                            
                                         DISSOLVE TO:
                                                            
EXT. HOUSE - LATE AFTERNOON
                                                            
Anthony & Jessica, who has her backpack, are walking towards
a 3-family house, which is located just down the street from
their own. Alex lives on the first floor apartment of this
house, along with his brother and his brother's girlfriend.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            

90.

INT. ALEX'S APARTMENT, LIVING ROOM - SAME
                                                            
Alex is sitting in the living room. Their BIG SCREEN TV is
on, but all his attention is focused on the SPANISH GIRL
with whom he's having a conversation on the phone with.
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (Spanish; into
       phone)
Naw, Baby, I'm not a bad guy once
you get to know me. Don't believe
all those rumors. Those girls are
just jealous!
                                                            
The girl on the other end just GIGGLES (OS). The doorbell
RINGS (OS).
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (Spanish; into
       phone)
Someone's at my door. I'll call
you back.
                                                            
                       SPANISH GIRL
      (Spanish; from
       phone)
Bye --
                                                            
Alex hangs up on the girl, then answers the door. Anthony &
Jessica walk inside the quaint little apartment.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Hey, what's up, Alex.
                                                            
                       ALEX
Waz good, Tony.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Hi, Uncle Alex.
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (smiling)
How you doin', Baby? Come give me
a hug.
                                                            
She does. Then suddenly, a young Puerto Rican woman, in her
mid-20s, steps out of a nearby room. This is CLAUDIA, Alex's
brother's girlfriend.
                                                            
                       CLAUDIA
Who is it, Alex?
                                                            

91.

                       ANTHONY
Hey, Claudia.
                                                            
                       CLAUDIA
Oh, hey, Tony.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Hi, Tia Claudia!
                                                            
Jessica runs up to her and hugs her.
                                                            
                       CLAUDIA
      (smiling)
Hey, Sweetie! So, you're sleeping
over tonight, huh?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (smiling)
Mmm-hmm.
                                                            
Then, a little five-year-old boy comes out of another room,
and walks up to the girls. This is CESAR, Claudia's son.
                                                            
                       CESAR
Hi, Jessica.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Hi, Cesar.
                                                            
                       CESAR (cont'd)
My daddy bought me a new game, you
wanna play?
                                                            
                       JESSICA
Okay.
                                                            
They head into his room to play video games.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (to Claudia)
Hey, thanks for babysitting
tonight.
                                                            
                       CLAUDIA
No problem. We'll take good care
of her.
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (smart-aleck)
As always.
                                                            

92.

                       ANTHONY
      (chuckles)
All right. See y'all later.
                                                            
Anthony leaves, and Alex closes the door behind.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. ROJAS RESIDENCE - EVENING
                                                            
Anthony's Toyota pulls up to the front. He HONKS the horn,
then gets out of the car. This time he has changed into his
new outfit. Alicia gets out of the house, wearing a CASUAL
OUTFIT, but looking even prettier. She walks up to the car.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Wow, Babes, you look beautiful.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Thank you. You're looking good,
yourself.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Thanks. I just bought some new
gear and some new kicks.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
I see that.
                                                            
He opens the door for her, and she gets in the passenger's
seat. Anthony gets in the driver's seat, and they drive off.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. APARTMENT BUILDING - LATER
                                                            
Anthony drives up to the front of Chris' apartment building.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. TOYOTA
                                                            
Anthony HONKS the horn.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Who lives here?
                                                            

93.

                       ANTHONY
My cousin. I'm givin' him a ride
'cause he doesn't have his license
yet.
                                                            
Chris gets in the backseat; then his girlfriend, a pretty
Cape Verdean girl named GINETTE, 21, gets in the car.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Baby, this is my cousin Chris, and
that's his girl Ginette. Chris and
Ginette, this is my girlfriend,
Alicia.
                                                            
                       GINETTE
      (smiling; to
       Alicia)
How you doin'?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (nods; to Alicia)
'Sup.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Hi.
                                                            
And with that, they drive off.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. MOVIE THEATRE, PARKING LOT - EVENING
                                                            
Having already parked, the foursome get out of Anthony's
Toyota. They walk up to a light-skinned African-American
boy, who's waiting by a HONDA CIVIC, along with his
African-American girlfriend. The boy is FREDDY, 20. The girl
is CRYSTAL, 20.
                                                            
Anthony & Freddy embrace -- they obviously haven't seen each
other in a while.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Waz good, nigga! I haven't seen
you in a minute!
                                                            
                       FREDDY
      (smiling)
You know me; I'm like Tupac, I get
around.
                                                            
They all laugh.
                                                            

94.

                       FREDDY (cont'd)
      (smiling)
Naw, I'm just playin'. I've been
in college, homie, trying to get
that education.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Cool, cool. Hey yo, this is my
girl, Alicia. Alicia, this is mine
and Chris' friend, Freddy.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Hi, how you doin'?
                                                            
                       FREDDY
I'm good. Hey y'all, this is my
girl, Crystal.
                                                            
                       CRYSTAL
      (smiling)
Hi, nice to meet y'all.
                                                            
                       FREDDY
      (to everyone)
A'ight, well let's go inside. I'm
dying to see this movie!
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. MOVIE THEATRE - LATER
                                                            
It's already halfway through the movie, and by the
audience's reactions (and the SCREAMS onscreen), we can tell
they are watching a HORROR MOVIE. As we pan around, Chris &
Freddy are making out with their respective girlfriends,
while Anthony & Alicia are the only ones of the group
actually watching the movie. Suddenly, another SCREAM (OS)
is heard, and Alicia jumps into Anthony's arm. Anthony
chuckles to himself, as she smiles at him.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. MOVIE THEATRE - NIGHT
                                                            
The group walks out of the movie theatre, along with
everyone else. By the look on everyone's faces, it's obvious
that they all had a good time. Anthony & Alicia are walking
out hand-in-hand. A trio of Hispanic guys, between
late-teens and early-20s, are heading inside the theatre,
past the group. EDGAR, the trio's short leader with an
obvious Napoleon Complex, and wearing the most
expensive-looking CHAIN you could ever see, practically

95.

SHOULDER-CHECKS Anthony on his way in. Anthony, taking
notice, looks back at the guy.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yo, what the fuck?! The word is
excuse me!
                                                            
                       EDGAR
What?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
There's open space, dude! You
didn't have to body-check me like
that!
                                                            
                       EDGAR
What, nigga!?
                                                            
Anthony just looks at him, trying to find the right words to
say.
                                                            
                       EDGAR
      (scoffs)
That's what I thought!
                                                            
Edgar and his friends continue heading inside, but Anthony
clearly wasn't finished.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (to Anthony)
Baby, let it go.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Naw, Baby, hold on.
      (to Edgar)
Hey yo!
                                                            
                       EDGAR
      (turning back)
Hey yo, nigga, we got a problem
here!?
                                                            
Anthony steps up to him.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I dunno, mothafucka, do we?!
                                                            
One of Edgar's friends, MIGUEL, comes up to him.
                                                            
                       MIGUEL
Yo, Edgar, fuck that. Let's just
go in, man.
                                                            

96.

                       EDGAR
Yo, Miguel, stay out of it --
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yeah, Miguel, stay out of it!
                                                            
Chris walks up, moving Anthony out of the way.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (to Edgar)
Hey yo, check it. My cousin, here,
ain't the type to look for
trouble. So why don't you, and
your little mira-mira friends
there, just head on inside the
movie theatre, and there won't be
any trouble.
                                                            
                       EDGAR
"Trouble"? Nigga, you know who the
fuck I am?!
                                                            
                       CHRIS
No, and I don't care. But I'm
trying to be peaceful about all
this, and settle the situation
peacefully. But your dumbass ain't
fuckin' helpin'.
                                                            
                       EDGAR
Yo, ya big bitch-ass better step
the fuck off, before you get hurt!
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Oh, so I'm a bitch now?
                                                            
                       EDGAR
Did I stutter!?
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (nodding)
All right...
                                                            
Chris suddenly PUNCHES Edgar, knocking him down. A FISTFIGHT
suddenly breaks out between Chris, Anthony & Freddy and
Edgar and his friends. Chris mounts Edgar and starts
PUNCHING him in his face, finishing the job he started.
Anthony SCOOPS up Miguel, then SLAMS him to the ground and
starts PUNCHING him; same as his cousin. Freddy PUNCHES the
third guy in the face, knocking him down. Next, he starts
stomping on the guy. In the midst of the chaos, it doesn't
take long for POLICE SIRENS (OS) to break up the fight.
Anthony and his friends start RUNNING.
                                                            

97.

                                         DISSOLVE TO:
                                                            
EXT. DORCHESTER HEIGHTS - LATE NIGHT
                                                            
Dorchester Heights is an area in South Boston, that
overlooks most of the city of Boston. It is home to a
monument that resembles a church steeple. Anthony has his
Toyota parked nearby. He and Alicia are sitting alone at the
base of the monument, taking in the view of the city.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (rubbing his back)
You okay, Tony?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (checking his hand)
Yeah. But I think I cut my
knuckles on that dude's teeth.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Yeah, but you got him good though,
Baby!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Well, no one told him to bump into
me like that.
                                                            
She playfully hits him.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Is that all you're thinkin' about?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
You okay?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Yes, thank you for asking.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Don't worry, Alicia, I haven't
forgotten you. And I never will.
                                                            
She smiles at that. A beat goes and then:
                                                            
                       ALICIA
So, why'd you bring me here?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Why, you don't like it?
                                                            

98.

                       ALICIA
No, it's not that. It's just that
we've never come here before.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (beat)
I came here once, when I started
driving. One time, my mom and
step-dad took Jessie with them to
Florida, to visit my aunt...and I
felt lonely. Then, I went out and
drove around till I found this
spot. I just sat here and looked
out into the city. I don't know
why but it gave me a feeling as if
I was on top of the world -- kinda
made me forget about my troubles.
I guess what I'm trying to say is
here's a place you can come to,
when you start driving. You know,
to drift away from your problems.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Oh. Well, I like this place. It's
beautiful.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I'm glad you like it.
      (beat)
If you don't mind me asking, what
is it exactly that's causing you
problems?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (beat)
At some point, after my mom died,
I tried to kill myself. Then, I
stayed at a hospital for almost a
year. Now I try to stay calm and
positive. But every now and then,
even the smallest thing can stress
me out.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Oh. Is there anyone that can cause
said stress?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
There's a lot of people.
      (smiling)
But, don't worry, you're not on
that list.
                                                            

99.

He smiles, then kisses her.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. ALEX'S APARTMENT - MIDNIGHT
                                                            
With his car parked outside, Anthony walks up to the front
door and rings the DOORBELL.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. ALEX'S APARTMENT, LIVING ROOM
                                                            
Sitting in the living room, watching TV in the dark is JULIO
(25), Alex's older brother, who is still in his mechanic's
uniform. He gets up and answers the door.
                                                            
                       JULIO
What's up, Tony?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (walking in)
What's up, Julio, how you doin'?
                                                            
                       JULIO
Me? I'm just tired, man. I just
walked in from work.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (re: his uniform)
Yeah, I see that.
                                                            
                       JULIO
You're here for Jessica?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yeah, but I'm not in a hurry.
                                                            
They head into the living room and sit down.
                                                            
                       JULIO
So, what's up, kid? What 'chu been
up to?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Nothin' man. I was just at the
movies with my girl and my cousin.
Everything was goin' good 'til
this dude body-checked me out of
nowhere!
                                                            
                       JULIO
Oh, damn. What happened?
                                                            

100.

                       ANTHONY
Well, long story short, we got
into a fight. I won, of course.
                                                            
                       JULIO
Damn. You gotta be careful, my
dude. You don't wanna be settin' a
bad example for Jessie, goin' out
fighting.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yeah, I know. But, I didn't start
it. Yo, check it, I've had a long
night, so I'm just gonna get
Jessie, and be out.
                                                            
                       JULIO
A'ight then, Tony. Take it easy,
kid.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yeah, I hear ya.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
 
EXT. HAPPY YEARS PRESCHOOL - DAY
                                                            
It's late in the day, and Anthony has parked the Toyota
around the corner from the preschool. He gets out of the car
and quickly makes his way to the school. School has let out
a long time ago, and it's obvious that Anthony has come late
to pick up Jessica. From the distance, we see a HONDA CIVIC
parking across from the Toyota. We can also see TWO PEOPLE
in the front seats of the car, but we can't make out who
they are. It gives the idea that Anthony's being followed,
as they watch him head inside the school.
                                                            
Moments later, Anthony walks out of the school, holding
Jessica's hand. As they head back to the car:
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I'm sorry, Jessie, but I had
detention. And now I'm late to
pick up your grandparents at the
airport!
                                                            
They get back to the car. Before Anthony can even open the
door for Jessica, it's Edgar & Miguel who step out of the
Honda, still with BLACK-EYES AND BRUISES from the other
night. They walk up to Anthony.
                                                            

101.

                       EDGAR
      (menacingly)
Yo, waz good, Homie!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (under his breath)
Oh shit...!
                                                            
                       EDGAR
You ain't so tough without that
big dude, huh?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yo, I know we had that problem
back at the movie theatre, but
whatever you're trying to do,
please don't do it in front of my
kid.
                                                            
                       MIGUEL
Hey yo, fuck your kid!!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
What did you just say?
                                                            
                       MIGUEL
      (stepping up)
I said fuck...your...kid.
                                                            
Anthony suddenly SHOVES Miguel back, then PUNCHES him in the
face; knocking him down. Edgar & Anthony get into a
FISTFIGHT, as Jessica begins to CRY. Edgar knocks Anthony
into a fence, and starts PUNCHING him.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
      (screaming)
STOP HITTING MY DADDY!!!
                                                            
She tries to push Edgar away from her father, but he SHOVES
her to the ground. This sends Anthony into a state of rage,
as he SCOOPS Edgar up and SLAMS him into the ground. He
starts PUNCHING Edgar repeatedly, until he is suddenly
BASHED over the head with a GLASS BOTTLE by Miguel. Bleeding
from the head, Anthony falls to the ground. Miguel helps
Edgar back up.
                                                            
                       EDGAR
      (to Anthony)
That'll teach you to fuck with me,
bitch!!
                                                            
He KICKS Anthony in the stomach, then he and Miguel quickly
get back into their car and drive off. Anthony & Jessica get

102.

back up. He reaches into his pocket, pulls out his cellphone
and dials a number. After two RINGS, it's Chris who answers
the call.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (from phone)
Hello?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone;
       panting)
Yo...it's me.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (from phone)
Waz good, Tony. What's wrong with
you, why're you breathing so hard?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
They found me...
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (from phone)
Who? Who found you?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Those dudes from the movies. They
jumped me, in front of Jessie.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (from phone)
What!? Is she all right?!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Yeah, she's fine. Yo, get the
fellas, and pick me up at the
crib. You know what we gotta do.
                                                            
He hangs up. Anthony picks up Jessica, who's still crying,
and places her in the backseat of his car. He gets in and
drives off.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. ALICIA'S BEDROOM - EVENING
                                                            
Alicia is in her room, already waiting on the phone for
someone to pick up. The person who answers is Alex.
                                                            

103.

                       ALEX
      (from phone)
Hello?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (into phone)
Hello, Alex? Have you seen Tony?
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (from phone)
Naw, I haven't seen him since
school.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (into phone)
Well, I'm worried about him. I've
been calling his phone but he has
it off. And I've tried to call his
other friends, but they haven't
seen him either.
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (from phone)
But didn't you see him in school
today?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (into phone)
I wasn't in school today.
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (from phone)
Well, I don't know what to tell
you.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (into phone)
Okay, thanks.
                                                            
She hangs up. Alicia sits at her desk. Moments later, she
decides to write in a piece of paper. Afterwards, she leaves
with the note in hand.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. RAMOS RESIDENCE, LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
                                                            
Anthony & Jessica are sitting on the couch. Anthony is still
clearly upset, and hurt, when the doorbell RINGS (OS). He
gets up and answers the door. It's Alicia.
                                                            

104.

                       ALICIA
Hey --
      (gasps)
Oh my God, Tony! What happened to
you?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Nothing.
                                                            
She already knows.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Did those guys jump you?
      (no answer)
I tried to call you today.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I turned my phone off.
                                                            
Suddenly, a car HONKS it's horn (OS), and he gets his jacket
and puts it on.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Anthony, don't go!
                                                            
She tries to stop him by grabbing his arm, but he pushes her
arm away.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Get off of me! No one puts their
hands on my daughter!
                                                            
She gets in his way.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Please...
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Watch my kid.
                                                            
She slips the note she had written earlier in his jacket
pocket, as he leaves. Anthony doesn't notice.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. BMW (MOVING) - NIGHT
                                                            
There's a BLACK BMW 328i cruising down the streets of
Boston, passing by numerous STORES and HOUSES.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. BMW (MOVING) - NIGHT
                                                            

105.

The person at the wheel is SHAWN, 21. Shawn is one of Chris'
best friends and is known to be a hothead. He is currently
smoking a BLUNT as he drives. Freddy is in the passenger's
seat, while Chris & Anthony are sitting in the backseat.
*NOTE: everyone in the car is wearing dark clothing.
                                                            
                       FREDDY
Goddamn, Shawn! How the fuck are
you whipin' in this?! This ride's
fire!
                                                            
                       SHAWN
Come on, Freddy, I'm a hustla!
                                                            
Freddy laughs because he knows it's true.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yo, how did y'all find these dudes
already?
                                                            
                       SHAWN
When Chris described them to me, I
knew they was the same niggas that
were fuckin' with my cousin, a few
weeks back. Needless to say, I had
to tune they asses up! But, along
the way, one of my homeboys ended
up finding out where they be
stayin' at.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (to Anthony)
Yo, you strapped?
                                                            
Anthony just looks at him -- that'll be a "no".
                                                            
                       CHRIS
A'ight, well here.
                                                            
He hands him a GLOCK 17. Anthony takes the gun.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
That's my baby right there, so you
take good care of it.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
What about you?
                                                            
Chris shows him a DESERT EAGLE he's been holding the whole
ride. Shawn hands Chris the blunt he's been smoking, and
Chris takes a hit. He offers it to Anthony, who refuses.
                                                            

106.

                       SHAWN
Yo, so what's the deal? We buckin'
niggas or what?!
                                                            
                       CHRIS
Hell yeah, nigga! But I wanna get
there faded. Where they at,
anyway?
                                                            
                       SHAWN
Egleston.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
A'ight then, let's go!
                                                            
                       SHAWN
A'ight.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
EXT. EGLESTON NEIGHBORHOOD - NIGHT
                                                            
With the BMW parked, the boys get out of the car. Shawn goes
up to the side of an apartment building, and peeks around
the corner. He turns back:
                                                            
                       SHAWN
      (whispering)
Hey yo, come here!
                                                            
Chris & Freddy go up to him. The three peek around the
corner.
                                                            
THEIR POV
                                                            
Chris, Freddy & Shawn see Edgar and Miguel in the distance,
with a few of their friends. It's about six or seven in
total.
                                                            
BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
Anthony has a look on his face; he clearly has reconsidered
doing what he's about to do.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
Yo, I'm out.
                                                            
                       SHAWN
      (whispering)
What?! Yo, don't punk out on me
now!
                                                            

107.

                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
I don't care. I'm out.
                                                            
                       FREDDY
      (whispering)
You sure?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
Yeah.
                                                            
Chris puts his arm around Anthony, and they distance
themselves for some privacy:
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (whispering)
You sure you wanna leave, Cuz?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (whispering)
Yeah, I'm sure.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (whispering)
What made you change your mind?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (beat; whispering)
I'm no killer. It's bad enough my
baby girl has no mother; I don't
want her growing up without her
father too.
                                                            
Chris nods understandingly; Anthony hands him back the gun.
They embrace.
                                                            
                       CHRIS
      (whispering)
Go home, Anthony.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (nods; whispering)
I will.
                                                            
Anthony starts walking away. Chris rejoins Freddy & Shawn,
and they start cutting through the back of some houses;
making their way towards their enemies.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            

108.

EXT. RAMOS RESIDENCE - LATER
                                                            
Anthony is walking towards his house when his cellphone
suddenly starts RINGING. He answers it:
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Hello?
                                                            
                       FREDDY
      (from phone)
Tony? It's me, Freddy.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
What happened? Y'all get 'em?
                                                            
                       FREDDY
      (from phone)
Yeah, we got 'em. But...
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
But what? What happened, Freddy?
                                                            
                       FREDDY
They got Chris.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (beat; into phone)
H-How they get him?
                                                            
                       FREDDY
      (from phone)
After you left, we ran up on 'em.
Your cousin managed to get most of
'em, but one of 'em squeezed off
four in his chest, before the job
was done. I'm sorry, man.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (into phone)
Yeah...me too.
                                                            
He slowly closes the phone, hanging up. A saddened Anthony
puts the cellphone in his jacket pocket, but he feels
something that catches his attention. He pulls out the
FOLDED NOTE that Alicia had slipped in his pocket earlier.
He opens it:
                                                            
INSERT - NOTE
                                                            

109.

The note reads:

"When I first saw you,
I was afraid to meet you.
When I first met you,
I was afraid to hold you.
When I held you,
I was afraid to kiss you.
When I first kissed you,
I was afraid to love you.
Now that I love you,
I'm afraid to lose you!"
                                                            
BACK TO SCENE
                                                            
This moves Anthony to tears. His own conscious saved his
life, even though it cost him the life of a loved one. He
heads inside his house.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. RAMOS RESIDENCE - NIGHT
                                                            
Alicia and Jessica are sitting in the living room, watching
TV. Jessica has already fallen asleep on the couch. Alicia
looks up and sees Anthony walking into the house, still
clutching the note and crying. He closes the door behind,
then leans against the wall, slowly falling to the floor as
if to sit down. Alicia quickly walks up to him. She holds
him tightly:
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I'm sorry!
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (softly)
Shh...it's okay, Tony. It's okay.
                                                            
He pulls away to look at her.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I love you, Alicia.
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (wiping his tears)
I love you too, Anthony.
                                                            
They kiss.
                                                            
                                         DISSOLVE TO:
                                                            
 

110.

EXT. RAMOS RESIDENCE - DAY
                                                            
It's a bright sunny day. Anthony is sitting outside on the
front porch when Ginette walks up to the house. He gets up.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Hey.
                                                            
                       GINETTE
Hey. How're you holding up?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
It's been three days, but I'm
trying. Chris was like my older
brother. We never had any real
brothers, so you can imagine how
our relationship was.
                                                            
                       GINETTE
Yeah, I know.
                                                            
She starts tearing up.
                                                            
                       GINETTE
I miss him, Tony, and I can't stop
thinking about him. I can't eat, I
can't sleep...
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Ginette, I think he would want us
to celebrate his life, not mourn
his death. You gotta be strong.
      (beat)
Listen, I always saw how you made
Chris happy; you're like family
for that. If there's anything you
need, don't hesitate to call me.
                                                            
                       GINETTE
Thank you, Tony. We appreciate it.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (confused)
"We"?
                                                            
Ginette places her hands on her stomach; she's pregnant, and
Anthony gets it. They both smile half-hearted.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (beat)
You know...Chris' last words to me
were "go home". And I did. In more
ways than he could imagine.
                                                            

111.

                       GINETTE
I'm glad to hear that. Take care
of yourself, Tony.
                                                            
He nods, and she walks away. Anthony stands there for a
moment, then heads inside the house.
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. RAMOS RESIDENCE, LIVING ROOM - DAY
                                                            
Isabel is sitting in the living room watching TV, when
Anthony walks into the room.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Ma, I gotta talk to you about
something.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
      (turns off TV)
What is it?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
I...I lied to you...
                                                            
                       ISABEL
      (softly)
About what?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Nikki never left me.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
      (in Spanish;
       subtitled)
What're you talking about? She
abandoned you. That's what you
said, remember?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
No. Everything else that I told
you was true. Except what happened
was that I told her to leave.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
Why did you do that, Anthony?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Because, she was right. Up until
she left, I was very childish and
naive. And I knew that people
would doubt my parenting skills.
But I've raised Jessie on my own,
for the last five years, and not
            (MORE)

112.

                       ANTHONY (cont'd)
once have I complained. She's
growing up well...and so am I. I
just wanted to prove that I'm a
man, and that I could be treated
like one.
                                                            
                       ISABEL
      (beat)
Anthony, you are my son, and I
love you. I know the last five
years have been hard for you, but
you've always kept your head up
high, and I'm proud of you. Pablo
is proud of you. And Jessica is
proud of you.
                                                            
He smiles at this.
                                                            
                       ISABEL (cont'd)
      (in Spanish;
       subtitled)
I'm glad you told me the truth.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Wait. There's more...
                                                            
                                         CUT TO:
                                                            
INT. RAMOS RESIDENCE, LIVING ROOM - LATER
                                                            
Anthony is telling his mother something. We can't hear the
dialogue, but we see that Isabel is moved to tears. She hugs
Anthony, afterwards.
                                                            
                                         DISSOLVE TO:
                                                            
EXT. ENGLISH HIGH SCHOOL - DAY
                                                            
SUPER - FOUR WEEKS LATER. GRADUATION DAY.
                                                            
It's graduation day, and the ceremony has just passed. Every
STUDENT that passed are in their CAPS & GOWNS; either
conversing with friends, or teachers, or taking pictures.
Anthony, one of the graduating students, is walking pass
numerous students congratulating him. Among those are his
own friends.
                                                            
                       MANNY
      (passing by)
Yo, Tony! There's gonna be a party
tonight, I better see you there!
                                                            

113.

                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
I'll be there, Manny!
                                                            
                       TAM-TAM
      (passing by)
Tony! We did it, homie!!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Yeah, congratulations, Tam!
                                                            
Upon seeing each other, Anthony & Alex embrace.
                                                            
                       ALEX
      (smiling)
Congratulations, my dude! Now
we're off to the real world, huh?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
Yeah, it seems like it.
                                                            
                       ALEX
You heading to the party at Joey's
crib?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Yeah, I'll see what I can do.
                                                            
                       ALEX
A'ight, T. Check ya later!
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
A'ight, man.
                                                            
As he makes his way through the crowd, Anthony finally finds
who he was looking for: Alicia, another graduating student.
She looks at him, smiling.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY/ALICIA
      (smiling)
I have something to tell you! You
first!
                                                            
Anthony goes first.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Well, I've been thinking a lot
about things. About what we've
been through, what we're going
through -- about us. And with
everything else that the future
has in store for us, I don't wanna
            (MORE)

114.

                       ANTHONY (cont'd)
go through them alone.
                                                            
He gets down on one knee, while holding up a DIAMOND RING
which captures the sunlight. Everyone nearby takes notice.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY (cont'd)
Alicia, will you marry me?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (beat; smiling)
Yes, Anthony, Yes!!
                                                            
Anthony takes her hand, then puts the ring on her finger.
Then, he gets up and kisses her. Everyone who saw, claps
their hands; including Isabel, Jessica and Pablo, who has a
VIDEO CAMERA in hand.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
What were you gonna say?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (beat)
Do you think Jessica will share?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
What do you mean?
                                                            
She guides his hand to her stomach. He gets it now.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (disbelief)
No!
      (smiling)
You're pregnant?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
Mmm-hmm.
                                                            
He hugs her. Jessica runs up to them, and Alicia picks her
up.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
      (smiling)
I think I found you a mother,
Jessie.
                                                            
Jessica hugs Alicia.
                                                            
                       JESSICA
I love you, Alicia.
                                                            

115.

                       ALICIA
      (smiling)
I love you too, Sweetie.
                                                            
They start walking until Anthony suddenly stops. He looks as
if he's seen a ghost. Reveal: Nikki, now 21 and looking less
than perfect. She walks up to Anthony.
                                                            
                       NIKKI
Hey, Tony. It's been a while.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Nikki...?
      (to his family)
Can you guys give us a minute,
please?
                                                            
                       ALICIA
Sure.
                                                            
Alicia and Anthony's family walk away, granting his request.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
What're you doing here, Nikki?
                                                            
                       NIKKI
I came back to Boston 'cause a
relative of mines just graduated
from English High too. How you
been?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Can't complain.
                                                            
He notices something familiar on her: a CHAIN that looks
suspiciously the same as the one we saw on Edgar, outside
the movie theatre...
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
If you don't mind me asking,
where'd you get that chain?
                                                            
                       NIKKI
Oh, this? It used to belong to my
ex. He died, so I also came back
for his funeral. His sister liked
me, so she wanted me to have his
chain.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
How did he die?
                                                            

116.

                       NIKKI
Well, from what I heard, he got
into a beef with some dude outside
a movie theatre. Then it escalated
into a shoot-out in Egleston, and
some big dude shot him in the
head. His sister saw the whole
thing.
                                                            
Anthony doesn't seem to react to this, but we know why.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
What was his name?
                                                            
                       NIKKI
Edgar.
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Oh.
                                                            
                       NIKKI
      (sighs)
Yeah. How's your family?
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
They're doing fine.
                                                            
                       NIKKI
Good, good. Listen, I know what I
did to you five years ago was
messed up, but I wanted to --
                                                            
                       ANTHONY
Don't worry about it. It's water
under the bridge now.
                                                            
                       NIKKI
      (smiling)
I'm glad to hear it.
      (sighs)
So, how's my daughter?
                                                            
Anthony just looks at her while shaking his head, pitying
her. He walks away. Nikki gets a confused look on her face,
until she realizes why Anthony did what he just did. We just
see Anthony walking away towards his family, not saying a
word.
                                                            


THE END


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