Love in the time of War

From WritersBuild

An original screenplay

By

Mark Dante Amendola

mark.amendola@gmail.com [DRAMA W]

Inspired by the song "Wish I Could" by Norah Jones

This story is dedicated to Rose Alison Williams, an amazing writer from Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia. She is forever my muse, giving me what I needed, not what I deserved, to complete this screenplay. I will never be able to thank Rose Alison enough for her creative contributions and the encouragement she gave me along the way. What started out as a simple tribute to one of my favorite Norah Jones songs ended up something quite different because of her.

Main Characters in this story: Mark, Anya, Rose, Annie

For the role of Annie, who is Australian, I would cast Australian singer/actress Delta Goodrem http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XzUNOvj8EVE.

FOR A U.S. NARCOTICS OFFICER WITH THE DEA AND HIS BEAUTIFUL AUSTRALIAN WIFE, LOVE ALONE MAY NOT PROVE STRONG ENOUGH TO KEEP THEIR MARRIAGE TOGETHER. FEELING OVERWHELMED AND EMOTIONALLY ISOLATED BY THE CONSTANT DANGER OF HER HUSBAND'S LINE OF WORK, ANNIE DECIDES ON A SEPARATION AND LEAVES MARK WHICH OPENS THE DOOR FOR HER GIRLFRIEND, ANYA, TO EXPRESS DEEP AND EROTIC FEELINGS TO HIM. ROSE ALISON, CHILDHOOD FRIEND OF SPECIAL AGENT MARK AUSTIN, TRIES TO DISSUADE ANYA FROM BREAKING UP THE MARRIAGE. SOON IT IS EVIDENT THAT ROSE ALISON IS IN LOVE WITH HIM AS WELL, WHICH SHE HAS BEEN FOR MANY YEARS. ORDERS COME DOWN SENDING MARK TO WAR TORN IRAQ ON A VERY TIME SENSITIVE ASSIGNMENT. HOW WILL THAT IMPACT THE MARRIAGE? HOW MUCH HAS MARK FALLEN FOR ANYA? WILL HE FINALLY FIND OUT HOW MUCH ROSE ALISON HAS LOVED HIM ALL THESE YEARS? NOTHING IS SIMPLE WHEN THERE IS LOVE IN THE TIME OF WAR.

Contents 1 SCENE 1 2 SCENE 2 3 SCENE 3 4 SCENE 4 5 SCENE 5 6 SCENE 6 7 SCENE 7 8 SCENE 8 9 SCENE 9 10 SCENE 10 11 SCENE 11 12 SCENE 12 13 SCENE 13 14 SCENE 14 15 SCENE 15 16 SCENE 16 17 SCENE 17 18 SCENE 18 19 SCENE 19 20 SCENE 20 21 SCENE 21 22 SCENE 22 23 SCENE 23 24 SCENE 24

SCENE 1

EXT. EVENING DOWNTOWN LAGUNA BEACH - ESTABLISHING

ANYA:

In the Ocean Avenue Brewery night club

Rose, since you are up can you get me another white wine? I'll buy if you fly.

ROSE:

Keep your money girlfriend. This one's on me for being so late tonight. Traffic sucks on Laguna Canyon Road with the Art Festival still going on and absolutely no cell phone reception or I would have called.

ANYA:

Don't worry. The wait wasn't that bad. I had three guys and that redhead to your left trying to pick up on me.

Rose quickly turns to get a glance.

ANYA:

Poor girl, she was two drinks too early.

Rose pushing through the crowd, comes back with two drinks.

ANYA:

You're a dear.

Rose puts the drinks on the table and sits down.

ROSE:

Anya, look who is coming in.

Not even taking a look.

ANYA:

Who is it?

ROSE:

It's Annie's husband, Mark and it doesn't look like anyone is with him.

Now very interested, watches him as he takes a seat at the bar in between two couples engaged in conversations of their own.

ANYA:

Annie is too damn lucky. How on earth did that Aussie import marry him?

ROSE:

Looking at Anya a little shocked

Aren't you a little bitch tonight? I think part of Mark's decision had something to do with the fact that she is so fucking beautiful.

ANYA:

I'm kidding Rose, relax. I love Annie. I'm just in lust with her husband. Does that make me a bad person? Don't answer that. Next to you, she's the, she's... O my God, I just realized I have only two people in my life that I feel safe enough with to share my deepest darkest secrets, you and Annie. How pathetic am I?

ROSE: Under her breath.

That's one more than I have.

ANYA:

What did you say Rose? The music is a bit too loud tonight.

ROSE:

I said I'd have one more.

Anya quickly finishes her drink and gets up.

ANYA:

I'll get the next round.

ROSE:

Stay away from him, Anya. I have known him since we were kids. He was the first boy I ever kissed and if he ever knew exactly how I felt for him, I'd be Mrs. Austin.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbpcHNum0MI

Pretending not to hear.

ANYA:

Sorry, the music is too loud. Back in a minute.

As Rose looked on in disbelief, Anya walked straight to Mark and tapped him on his shoulder. For the next twenty minutes, the two could be seen talking, laughing and finishing up with a very long hug. Mark departed the bar and Anya returned to the table and sits down.

ANYA:

I'll say it again. Annie is too damn lucky.

ROSE:

Thanks for the drink Anya.

ANYA:

I am so so sorry. We got caught up in the moment and I completely forgot. Let me go back.

ROSE:

Forget it. I think it's a good time to go.

ANYA:

Don't be mad at me, please, please, please.

They both stand up and walk through the crowded room to the street.

ROSE:

I'm not mad but I am interested in what the hell were the two of you talking about?

ANYA:

Annie.

ROSE:

That's it? All you two talked about was Annie? By the way, where did you park?

ANYA:

I am in the parking structure next to the library.

ROSE:

Me too. I'll walk you to your car.

As they walk to Anya's car, Rose listened as Anya told her about how much Mark loves Annie.

ANYA:

He just went on and on about their trip to Auckland, New Zealand and Queensland, Australia last month. It turns out Annie is out of town until tomorrow which is how he ended up at Ocean Avenue Brewery.

Standing at Anya's car.

and before he left, I invited him to join us next Thursday.

ROSE:

You did what! You know I can't make it next Thursday. My Dad will be in town and is taking me out to dinner.

Anya gets in her car and lowers the window.

ANYA:

O well, I'll find some way to entertain him.

Anya's car pulls away.

ROSE:

Anya, don't be stupid. What about Annie?

ANYA:

Waving her arm out the window

I love you too babe, Ciao!

SCENE 2

EXT. DRIVING ALONG COAST - CONTINUOUS ACTION

V.O. NARRATION:

As Mark drove north on Pacific Coast Highway towards home, he could not stop thinking about Anya. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h3XZH6UIsE8 The image of that simple hug they shared just a few moments earlier dominated his every thought. The feel of her embrace and breasts against him, the smell of her perfume, the smoothness of her beautiful extremely long hair on his arms had him hypnotized. He wondered if Anya had heard him say,"You're so pretty" as he turned and walked out. How badly he wished he could have kissed her. How much he dreamed of being able to tell her right there and then to come home with him. Driving home, he was getting every green light, a rarity in Laguna Beach. He sped through the intersection at Laguna Canyon Road on his way back to Corona Del Mar, a ten mile drive up the coast. Once in Corona del Mar, he almost missed his turn as he raced through the stoplight a Poppy and had to hit the breaks in order to make the left turn onto Orchid. His house at the corner of Orchid and Ocean Boulevard is a beautiful white two story with two red brick chimneys and twenty seven windows facing the ocean, fifteen on the first floor and twelve on the second.

After putting the top up on his dark blue Viper, he walked to the house and unlocked the front door. Before walking in, he turned briefly towards his car and pictured Anya walking towards him. With a blink of the eye, the vision was gone.

MARK:

What the fuck am I doing!

He walks inside, closes the door behind him and makes his way to the wall safe where he secures his two pistols. One is pulled from under his shirt and another from around his left ankle. Taking a seat on his reclining chair in front of the windows, Mark looks out over the ocean and the lights coming from the boats anchored just off shore. His cell phone rings and he pulls it out of his right pocket and sees it is Annie calling

MARK:

Hi Annie, what's up?

ANNIE:

Where the hell have you been? I called you twice within the last hour only to get your damn voice mail. I hate it when you don't answer the phone. I HATE IT! My airplane lands tomorrow at 12:30pm. Do not be late.

MARK:

Well, nice to hear your voice too, darling. I was down at Ocean Avenue Brewery having a drink and it was pretty loud.

ANNIE:

Was your Rose there?

MARK:

Yes she was. I apologize for not hearing the phone but you best change your attitude.

A long pause

MARK:

I don't believe it. She hung up on me. Annie, Fuck!

Mark sets his cell phone on the floor next to the chair and gets up to get a beer from the refrigerator across the room and to turn on some music. As he sits back down, the phone rings again but he doesn't even pick it up. After several rings, it goes silent and Mark reclines in his chair taking the first of many tastes of his Guinness and to replay the night's events in his mind.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIdIqbv7SPo

MARK:

Annie, I hate it when you're not here.

SCENE 3

INT. AIRPORT - AFTERNOON - ESTABLISHING

Mark is standing in the Baggage Claim section of the Airport waiting for Annie to get off the airplane that just landed. Cell phone rings.

MARK:

Hey Jonathan, nice to hear from you. What's up?

JONATHAN:

Just wanted to check in boss. We haven't talked since you left for Australia and there has been a lot of shit going down at the unit. Bravo Company deployed yesterday but we'll talk about that later. How did the trip go?

MARK:

Actually, it was OK. We had a chance to see friends of mine in New Zealand, the Browns. They live just outside of Auckland in a town called Massey. I lived with them for a year when I was a Foreign Exchange Student and this was the first time they met Annie. We stayed there for two days before flying to Brisbane.

JONATHAN:

Why Brisbane?

MARK:

I was a speaker at a Counter-Narcotics conference hosted by the Australian Federal Police. They paid for Annie to come with me so what the hell. We made a mini vacation out of it. All in all the trip was OK.

JONATHAN:

Just OK?

MARK:

Honestly, if it wasn't for a girl I met there, the trip would have been a bit of a bore.

JONATHAN:

What the fuck are you talking about? What girl?

MARK:

Let me tell you what happened. We stayed eight days at the Stamford Plaza Hotel which has an awesome view of the Brisbane River. My speech to the AFP was on the second day there which went well but I got sick the very next day. For the next five days, I was pretty much in bed all day which pissed off Annie to no end. Our last day there, I was feeling great. I wasn't sick at all. That evening, our last night there, we were having diner at a restaurant attached to the Hotel called Siggi's when in the middle of enjoying my Tasmanian Pacific Oysters, I caught eye of this absolutely beautiful blond coming down the staircase. Oh my god, she was stunning. Before I could finish undressing her with my eyes, she walked right by our table, smiled at me, said,"Hello my name is Angel" and walked to the other side of the room where she sat down at a table with another woman. You should have seen the look on Annie's face. You know how crazy she gets when I even look at another girl.

JONATHAN:

Yes I do. What did she do?

MARK:

She kicked my leg under the table and said,"Is that what you like? Is that what you want? Why don't you go fuck her"? I asked if I could wait until I finished the Crepes Suzette. She didn't think that was a bit funny and went back up to the room all pissed off.

MARK:

Did you follow her?

MARK:

Hell no, I stayed and enjoyed my Chateau Brian and the Crepes Suzette.

JONATHAN:

What about Angel?

MARK:

That's the funny thing. I was so consumed in the dinner that I didn't even see her leave. After I finished, I noticed that no one was on the balcony so I went out there with a glass of wine and a Cuban Cigar. As I stood out there looking down onto Edward Street, I felt a woman's hand run her fingernails right across my back. I was so startled that I dropped a $75 cigar onto the sidewalk. I turned and standing close enough to feel her breath was......... Hey Jonathan, I have to go. I see Annie.

JONATHAN:

You son-of-a-bitch don't you even hang up before finishing the.....

Mark ends the call and waves Annie over. He tries to kiss her but she pushes him away.

ANNIE:

I am sorry for hanging up on you last night. Tina's kids drove me crazy and my sister never disciplines them. So when I called and you didn't answer, I flipped.

MARK:

Don't worry about it. Let's get out of here.

Mark takes her only bag and they walk to the parking structure. As they pull out, Mark turns on the radio but Annie turns the radio off just to be mean.

MARK:

Annie do you want to take the 405 TO THE 55 TO PCH or straight down MacArthur to the coast?

ANNIE:

Don't be an idiot. Take MacArthur and get me home.

It's a very warm and sunny day, not a cloud in the sky. As they drive south on Pacific Coast Highway, Annie's cell phone starts to ring.

ANNIE:

Hello....Oh hi Anya, what's up girl. I just got into town.......He's right next to me driving. We're just coming into Corona Del Mar.....I'll ask him....Do you want to join Anya and Rose at Las Brisas for lunch in Laguna?

MARK:

No! Let's just go home.

ANNIE:

He said he'd love to. We'll see you in about ten minutes. Bye.

MARK:

Why did you do that? I said no.

ANNIE

I want to see the girls and I thought you would like to see them too. What's up your ass? Since when don't you want to see Rose?

MARK:

Jesus Ann, you really piss me off sometimes.

ANNIE:

Can we please just go to Laguna without the bitching?

MARK

Sure, we'll go but hell, we're not far from home.

Mark drives right past their street and continues south on Pacific Coast Highway to Laguna.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHR7ObvgW_o

V.O. NARRATION

As they pull into valet [1], Mark can't believe this is happening. On one hand, he was thrilled to see Anya but realizing how wrong his feelings are towards her, he just didn't want to see her, at least not right now. Anya is the woman Annie's not. Anya loves what Mark does for a living and is very supportive of his military involvement. Annie can't stand what he does and wants him to get into another line of work. He knows his feelings for Anya are strong and that is tearing him apart.

Walking into the restaurant.

ANNIE:

Mark, you seem a little apprehensive. What's up?

MARK:

Nothing. Do you see the girls anywhere?

ANNIE:

Not in here. Let's check the patio.

Rose waves her arm to get their attention.

ROSE:

Annie, Mark over here.

It's a beautiful, warm and sunny afternoon in Laguna Beach. From the patio, there is a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean with Catalina Island clearly in view. There are only about twelve tables on the patio which is surrounded by a low, white, metal fence separating it from the passers-by on one side and a small grass yard on the other. At the table closest to the grass, hugs are exchanged.

ROSE:

I am so glad you two could join us, especially with you just getting back into town.

ANNIE:

I'm just glad to be back home. I was out visiting my sister in Florida who is opening up a women's clothing store and I'm setting up her computer system.

ROSE:

Is the store open?

ANNIE:

Not yet, I have to go out at least two more times this month because of some software upgrades. The store will open after everything is loaded and working correctly. Where's Anya?

ROSE:

She went to put money in the parking meter. Actually, here she comes.

Anya walks up the grass to the fence and is standing by Mark.

ANYA:

Hi Annie, welcome back home. Does anyone have money for the meter? All I have are credit cards.

Anya smiles at Mark who pulls change out of his pocket and hands it to her.

MARK:

Take what you need.

ANYA:

If I took what I need, I'd be in a lot of trouble right now.

Just then, a strong ocean breeze to Anya's back carried her very long brunette hair over her shoulder coming to rest over Mark's left shoulder, quite a sight for everyone on the patio.

ROSE:

I got it!

MARK:

Got what, Rose?

ROSE:

A picture of Anya's hair blowing in the wind.

ANNIE:

Can I see?

ROSE:

Damnit, it didn't come out. I shook too much. The picture was completely blurred so I deleted it.

ANYA:

Thanks for the money, Mark. I'll be right back girls.

She gives Mark a kiss on the cheek before walking away. Annie notices Mark watching Anya walk away.

ANNIE:

Don't you think she looks beautiful, honey?

MARK:

Who?

ANNIE:

Anya, the girl you can't take yours eyes off of.

MARK:

Cute girl but she's no Rose.

Mark reaches across the table and gives Rose's left hand a quick squeeze.

MARK:

Next to you dear, Rose is the most beautiful woman I know.

ANNIE:

Good answer.

MARK:

If I didn't like her so much, I'd be married to her or at the least have her as my lover.

ANNIE:

Keep dreaming, Rose would never marry you. I'm the only stupid one at this table.

Rose feels a little uncomfortable with the conversation.

ROSE:

OK you two, shut up and order some damn food. For the record, I'd have sex with your wife before I would have sex with you.

MARK:

Ouch, hurting not helping, Rose.

Mark smiles at Rose as she leans over and kisses Annie on the lips

ANNIE:

Just keep dreaming you pervert.

An older woman at the neighboring table lets out a quick laugh.

OLDER LADY:

I'm sorry but listening to the three of you talk reminds me of a lifetime of similar conversations between my husband and I.

Looking at Mark

OLDER LADY:

For the record, I would take your wife over you as well.

All three women laugh and raise their water glasses in solidarity.

MARK:

Someone help me over here. I need a hug!

The older woman's husband looks at Mark

OLDER MAN:

Don't look at me. You're in way over your head, son.

Rose in a low voice.

ROSE:

You have no idea how right you are.

Mark looking at Rose

MARK:

What was that smart-ass remark?

ROSE:

I said I have to go to the lady's room.

MARK:

Do you ladies, and I mean that loosely, want to order first?

ANNIE:

If it's OK with you Rose, I'll wait for Anya to get back first.

Rose grabs her purse and stands up.

ROSE:

Good call. I'll be back in a minute

Rose turns towards Mark who stood up like a gentleman when she stood

ROSE:

About me being the most beautiful woman you know next to Annie, your full of shit my dear old friend.

Annie smiles and walks inside.

ANNIE:

What did she mean by that?

MARK:

Who knows? Some girls just can't take a compliment.

V.O. NARRATION:

What Rose doesn't realize is that Mark was actually telling the truth. The two of them have been friends since childhood, living as neighbors in Newport Beach. The fact that they grew up practically as brother and sister played significantly in preventing them from ever dating. Mark loves Rose more then she'll ever know and in typical fashion, he'll never tell her that. Because they are so close, Rose can read Mark like a book and knows there is something strong developing between he and Anya. The great irony is that she was the one who introduced Mark to both Annie and Anya.

Rose sees Anya walking through the restaurant and motions her to the bar.

ROSE:

Anya, I have to show you something.

They both take a seat at the empty bar.

ANYA:

What do you got?

Rose pulls her camera from her purse.

ROSE:

I took a picture of you a few minutes ago when your hair blew in the wind.

ANYA:

I thought you said it didn't come out?

ROSE:

Just take a look at the damn picture and tell me what you see.

Anya takes the camera.

ANYA:

Wow, Rose that's an incredible shot. My hair looks like a wave crashing down on Mark.

ROSE:

Look closer. The two of you are looking at each other as though your ready to have sex for the first time.

Anya hands the camera back to Rose and without a word walks to the table on the patio.

ANNIE:

Mark, stop looking at the ocean. Here comes the girls.

Annie and Mark both stand up to exchange hugs with Anya.

ANYA:

Sorry for keeping you waiting and here is the rest of your change back, Mark, thanks.

MARK:

My pleasure.

MARK;

Well ladies, let's order some food.

Waitress comes over

WAITRESS:

Will we be having any lunch today?

MARK;

Ladies first.

ANNIE:

Very well, I am going to have your House Salad and a glass of White Wine.

Waitress looks towards Anya

ANYA:

That sounds good, I'll have the same.

ROSE:

Me too. What are you getting Mark?

MARK:

You know, I'm not really hungry. I'll just have a Guinness on tap.

WAITRESS:

OK, I'll be right back with your drinks.

Just as the waitress walks away, Mark's cell phone starts to ring.

MARK:

Hello, who is calling? Yes, this is Captain Austin. Hold on, give me a moment.

Looks at Annie

MARK:

Sorry ladies, I have to take this call.

Mark steps over the white fence onto the grass and continues his conversation while walking a short distance to a gazebo that looks out over the ocean.

V.O. NARRATION:

Over the next half hour with Mark in plain view talking and pacing, the girls enjoyed each others conversation, their salads and drinks but each were very curious about who Mark was talking to and about what.

Anya setting down her wine glass.

ANYA:

So Annie, who do you think Mark is talking to?

ANNIE:

I know exactly who he is talking to, his damn Army Reserve unit. It's non-stop. If he is not at the unit, he's on the phone with them.

Loud enough for everyone on the patio to hear

ANNIE:

I hate this fucking war! Why don't they just nuke the sons of bitches and get it over with?

Annie abruptly stands up, steps over the fence and walks to Mark just as he finishes his phone conversation.

ANYA;

Wow, where did that come from?

ROSE:

I don't know. I have never heard Annie talk like that before.

Anya and Rose watch Annie walk up to Mark and start talking. They both get an eye full of Annie pushing Mark back as he tries to give her a hug. Annie walks back to the fence ahead of Mark.

ANNIE:

Girls, I'm sorry but I got to get the hell out of here right now. Can you drive Mark home, Rose? I don't think you'll have a problem with that?

ROSE:

Well I have to...

"Not even listening to what she is saying"

ANNIE:

Great, thanks! Anya can you hand me my purse please.

ANYA:

Sure, here you go.

Annie walks away towards the valet.

ROSE:

Anya, I really can't drive Mark home. I have an appointment I cannot be late for.

ANYA:

Don't worry; I'll get him home.

ROSE:

Whose home?

ANYA:

Not funny Rose.

Mark walks up to the fence and hands Rose a hundred dollar bill.

MARK:

Darlin, here is for the lunch. I'm going to take a little walk. Sorry for the craziness. Don't be mad at Annie. I just seem to keep her in a perpetual state of high anxiety. Bye girls.

Mark starts to walk away

ROSE:

How are you going to get home?

ANYA:

Rose, he didn't hear a word you said.

Anya grabs her purse, gives Rose a kiss on the cheek and walks to the exit after Mark without another word said.

ROSE:

Bye Anya. Be careful.

Anya catches up with Mark at the corner stoplight on Pacific Coast Highway. He is standing in front of the Laguna Art Museum reading the marquee when Anya walks up and takes him by the hand.

ANYA:

Don't say a word. Just walk with me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjsjZWlRVvo

V.O. NARRATION:

For the next hour, Mark and Anya walk hand in hand down the boardwalk of Laguna Main Beach and the surrounding streets, allowing themselves to get lost in crowds of tourists. Not one word was mentioned about Annie. Actually, the entire time they were together hardly a word was said yet volumes were spoken with each accidental glance and squeeze of the hand. They end up back at the Las Brisas valet at which time Mark hands the teenage boy there a fifty-dollar bill to get Anya's car.

MARK:

Keep the change.

VALET:

Thanks Mister

He runs off to get the car.

MARK:

Thanks for walking with me Anya.

Gives her a long hug and the feel of her embrace and breasts against him, the smell of her perfume, the smoothness of her beautiful hair on his arms had him hypnotized yet again.

ANYA:

Last time you hugged me, you said I was pretty.

MARK:

You heard that? I am so embarrassed.

ANYA:

Don't be.

'The car pulls up next to them.

ANYA:

Get in and I'll give you a ride home.

MARK:

Thanks for the offer but I'm OK.

ANYA:

Are you sure?

MARK:

Yes, now get out of here before we both do something very wrong.

Anya smiles and nods in agreement as she gets in her car and lowers the window.

ANYA:

I guess next Thursday is off?

MARK:

What are you talking about? I'm already there.

They exchange one last smile before Anya drives off with a big smile.

SCENE 4

INT. RESTAURANT - CONTINUOUS ACTION

V.O. NARRATIVE:

With Anya on her way, Mark went back in the restaurant and sat at the bar. He gave Jonathan a call from his cell phone and explained how he ended up carless. It took Jonathan about a half hour to join up with Mark during which time Mark emptied several bottles of beer; Guinness to be exact. When Jonathan arrived, it was immediately obvious to him that Mark had too much to drink. It had a lot to do with Mark's inability to put his wallet back into his pocket after paying the bartender. Catching him just as he lost his balance, Jonathan sat Mark on the barstool. Jonathan sat next to him, neither aware that a few hours earlier, Anya and Rose sat in the exact two places.

JONATHAN:

Mark, what the hell are you doing and how dare you get drunk without me.

MARK:

I'm not drunk. I'mmmm haaapy about you. I think Rose Alison is mad at me.

JONATHAN:

Your wife left you here carless. You're falling dangerously in love with Anya but all you care about is Rose Alison being mad at you. Who the fuck is Rose Alison?

MARK:

I'm the only one who calls her Rose Alison. Why.....you here?

JONATHAN:

You are an idiot my friend. Let's get out of here.

Puts an arm around Mark all the way to his car.

MARK:

Jon don't take me home right now. Just drive.

JONATHAN:

Where to my drunk friend?

MARK:

Let's drive up the coast to Huntington Beach, if you wouldn't mind?

JONATHAN:

Sounds good my friend. Let's do it.

Jonathan pulls out of the driveway and heads north on Pacific Coast Highway for the 20 mile drive to Huntington Beach.

MARK:

Ya ne hochu schtobi ana poshla damoi.

JONATHAN:

Once again in English please, my not so secret agent friend.

MARK:

I don't want her to go home!

JONATHAN:

Who are you talking about, Annie or Anya? If you say Rose Alison, I'm going to throw you out of the car and you can walk your drunk ass home.

Lifting his head up to look at Jonathan.

MARK:

Anya, I love the idea of being in love with her.

Falls asleep leaning back in his car seat.

JONATHAN:

Mark, you're in deep my friend, way fucking deep and yes, I'll be there to pull you out of the giant hole you're digging for yourself.

Leans forward and turns up the radio as he continues the drive up the coast.

V.O NARRATIVE

Even with Mark asleep in the car, Jonathan decided to continue the drive to Huntington Beach, taking advantage of an awesomely wonderful Southern California afternoon. Jonathan and Mark are very close friends but when they first met in their Army Reserve unit that was not the case. First Sargeant Jonathan Love already had two years invested in the unit when Captain Mark Austin took command. He was the third Company Commander in two years which really brought the morale of the unit down, especially with the war in Iraq in full swing. As First Sargeant, Jonathan's job is to keep the unit morale high and supportive of its Commander. Something hard to do in recent times with the constant personnel changes. After several successful training deployments not only is the unit functioning better than it ever has but the soldiers have taken a great liking to Captain Austin and his Be Brief, Be Blunt, Be Gone style of command. Jonathan's respect for Mark reached an all time high as he watched his Commander deliver the Death Notification of a young, 19 year old, female soldier from the unit who volunteered to go over to Iraq. She was an outstanding Arabic linguist and was thrilled at the chance of using her skills in support of a Public Affairs unit in country that was in immediate need of additional linguistic support. Rules have it that a notification of death must be delivered to next of kin no later than twelve hours after receipt of the message from Higher Headquarters. Before the four dark grey military sedans departed for Private Veronica Brown's home, First Sargeant Jonathan Love returned to his Commanders office to tell him everyone was ready. As he approached the office, he saw Captain Austin alone and on his knees in prayer. Words were expressed about Private Brown and her family, his team of support personnel going with him and a final prayer of gratitude for his First Sargeant.

MARK:

And finally Lord I thank you for Jonathan Love. I have no closer friend. His ability to lead soldiers continues to inspire me and I would be lost without his support and friendship. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.

V.O. NARRATIVE

With that, Jonathan returned to the others outside and just waited for Captain Austin to come out. Twenty minutes later the four military sedans slowly pulled up in front of Private Brown's home. Captain Austin lead his team to the front door. Before he could knock, Ms. Brown, a single mother, opened the door with tears streaming down her face. She knew. She knew when she saw the sedans pull up and eight soldiers in dress blue uniform approach the house. As Captain Austin delivered the message, the front yard filled with neighbors coming over to find out what was going on. Ms. Brown fell into Captain Austin's arms in uncontrollable grief. As he held her tight, neighbor ladies rushed over to relieve him. As he walked back to his sedan, he was unusually silent. On the ride back to the unit, Jonathan could see the tears in Captain Austin's eyes in the rear view mirror as he sat alone in the back seat. Nothing was said the entire ride back to the base. Jonathan knew right there and then that he was in the presence of a very special man.

After a few beach side detours along Pacific Coast Highway which included leaving Mark to sleep in the car while Jonathan enjoyed a few tacos and a beer at his favorite Mexican Restaurant, they arrived at Mark's house in Corona del Mar just past 6pm. As Jonathan turned the car off, Mark woke up.

MARK:

Oh my god, what time is it?

JONATHAN:

1808 Captain, we're home. Do you want me to help you in?

MARK:

No but thanks for the offer. Annie is in a mood and it's time for some damage control.

JONATHAN:

Can I ask you something? It's kind of personal and I feel very uncomfortable talking about it.

MARK:

No, I am not going to kiss you.

JONATHAN:

Not funny Mark. Actually, that was kind of funny but seriously, what is going on between you, Annie and this Anya girl? Whatever you decide, I'm with you but I have to say the thought of you and Annie not together bothers me.

Using the rear view mirror to comb his hair

MARK:

Honestly Jonathan, I wish to God I could tell you that everything is fine with Annie and me. I wish I could tell you that I have no romantic feelings towards Anya but I can't. I can't stop thinking about her. I can't look at a couple walking hand-in-hand without imagining it's us. After Annie had her melt down at Las Brisas and took off, Anya and I ended up walking through Laguna. On the boardwalk, we stopped to listen to this guy play his guitar for money and as we walked up, he said,"This next song I will dedicate to you and your lovely wife".

JONATHAN:

What did Anya do?

MARK:

Without missing a beat, she put some money in his guitar case, thanked him and held my hand while he played one of my favorite Black Sabbath songs, "Laguna Sunrise". It's an awesome acoustic piece and this guy nailed it! Talk about a perfect moment: Holding Anya's hand, excellent music, a warm beautiful day at the beach.

JONATHAN:

So, what are you telling me. Are you falling in love with her? Honestly Mark, if all this is about getting laid, I'll take you Vegas and have my girl, Sheri, hook you up with one of her friends from the club she dances at. We can be there in four hours or six, if you drive.

MARK:

Thanks but no thanks my friend.

JONATHAN:

What are you going to say to Annie when you go in?

Looking all around and not seeing his car anywhere.

MARK:

Most likely nothing, She's not here. I don't see the car but when I do see her, I'll tell her that I love her. I'll throw my arms around her. I'll kiss her passionately, if she'll let me and most importantly I'll mean it.

Gets out of the car.

Jon, you may not believe me right now but I do not want to fuck things up between Annie and I. My problem is that I am sincere about how I feel about Anya.

JONATHAN:

All right boss, I'm off. Remember, you can be sincere but sincerely wrong.

MARK:

That's surprisingly deep. I'm impressed.

JONATHAN:

I'm out of here, see ya!

Backs out of the driveway and drives off.

MARK:

Talk to you soon!

Starts to walk into the house but hears his name called from across the street.

KENNY:

MARK!

Turns to see his neighbor, Kenny, walking over holding his two year old son Riley.

MARK:

Hey Kenny, what's up? Come on inside. I just got home.

KENNY:

Sure, why not?

Follows Mark into the living room holding his son.

KENNY:

Is Annie home by chance? Riley drew her a picture.

Set's Riley on the couch.

MARK:

No, she's out shopping.

Notices a note on top of the television.

MARK:

Can I get you a beer or some tea? What about for Riley?

KENNY:

No were fine but Mark I want to tell you something, if I may?

MARK:

What's on your mind?

V.O. NARRATIVE

At this point, Mark picks up the note and starts to read it while Kenny begins to talk about Annie. The note reads,"Mark: I can't take it anymore. Your commitment to the Army is more important then your commitment to me. To hell with you, the Army, your stupid work, your friends and your family. I am flying back to Florida and will be staying with Tina. For how long, I don't know? All I know is that I want away from you! Just the thought of you touching me makes me sick. Do not call me for any reason. I'll see you when I see you."

KENNY:

Mark, I just want to tell you how much I appreciate what Annie has done for Riley and me over these past few months. Seems the only blessing in my life since my wife's death has been Annie. Don't take it the wrong way. She has helped me out so much with Riley and making us food has been a big help to me. I am in constant awe at how great she is. You are the luckiest man I know.

Looking up from the note with a forced smile.

MARK:

Thanks for saying so. Annie is special in many ways.

KENNY:

Do you know that feeling you get when you're with a woman that completely captures your every emotion? The woman that you can't stand being away from, who makes you feel so damn special just by looking at you or holding your hand. The woman who seems to know just when you need to be hugged and is the world's greatest listener, never with a bad thing to say about anyone.

Remembering his earlier walk through Laguna with Annie.

MARK:

I know that feeling. I know that woman.

KENNY:

You are lucky Mark to have Annie. When my wife died, I lost all that and it hurts like hell.

Wipes a tear from his eye as he picks up Riley.

MARK:

Kenny through all the hurt my friend, you and I are both very lucky men. I don't know what's next for either of us but listening to you has made feel very optimistic.

KENNY:

Sorry for the drama. Actually, I wanted to let you and Annie know that we're moving back to Sierra Vista, Arizona today to be with my family.

MARK:

Sierra Vista, I taught out there at the Army Intelligence Center last year. It was a course on a few new sensor packages for the Predator Unmanned Aerial Vehicle.

Pauses for a moment.

You have no idea what I am talking about, do you?

KENNY:

Not a damn clue but go on.

MARK:

What a small world. I really enjoyed being at Fort Huachuca. Were you in the Army?

KENNY:

No, my family owns a Toyota dealership out there.

MARK:

The one on Frye Boulevard?

KENNY:

That's the one.

MARK:

Sorry, Annie isn't here but I'll pass on the word and you, Riley, don't worry. I'll give Annie your picture.

Riley hands Mark a picture of a smiley face with long curly yellow hair.

MARK:

Keep in touch, Kenny.

They all walk outside.

KENNY:

I will and please give Annie a hug for me.

MARK:

Will do. Take care my friend.

Kenny and Riley cross the street as Mark goes back inside.

SCENE 5

EXT. FRONT YARD OF HOUSE - MORNING

V.O. NARRATION:

Before leaving for work, Mark put a letter in the mail to Annie. In it, he simply asked her to come home. He had no idea if Annie would even read the letter but he knew it was the right thing to do, regardless. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MpjnaGOeHH4 Traffic was surprisingly light this morning as he drove the coast through Laguna Beach in route to his office in the Federal Building located in the city of Laguna Niguel. Locals call the building the Ziggurat because it is shaped like an ancient Babylonian stepped pyramid but officially it's the Chet Holifield Federal Building. Whatever it is called, Mark was thrilled when the Drug Enforcement Administration Regional Office relocated from Los Angeles, 60 miles to the north, saving him an hour's drive or three depending on traffic.

Sitting at a large oval shaped table with twelve other DEA Intelligence Agents

SPECIAL AGENT IN CHARGE (SAIC) IAN DONOVAN:

Gentlemen, as we continue to identify and disrupt smuggling routes along the border with Mexico, two more significant red zones have been ID'd and to brief us on them today will be Special Agent Austin. Agent Austin recently joined me in Australia for a Joint Conference on Air Interdiction Operations in International Waters. If you haven't read the After Action Report, do so before you go home today and that's not a suggestion gentlemen. Without further adieu, the floor is yours Mark.

Walking up to an oversized map of the US/Mexican border.

MARK:

Good morning Gentlemen. Let me direct your attention to the coastline of San Diego. Working with Coast Guard and Naval Intelligence, we have been tracking small but effective commercially available submarines coming up from Mexico which are rendezvousing around midnight with high speed rafts loitering just off the coast of La Jolla in the vicinity of Black's Beach.

AGENT KELLY:

With what kind of frequency, twice a week, twice a month?

MARK:

Not even close, try twice a night, six days a week. It appears they take Sundays off for Church.

Everyone laughs.

AGENT JENKINS:

Have we taken anyone into custody?

MARK:

Not yet, that would be too precipitous at this point. We're keeping them under surveillance while building a case agains them. We are giving them the illusion of operational success by not taking them down at this point. The Navy has an awesome array of underwater sensors that allow us to track their every movement.

AGENT JENKINS:

From within Mexican territorial waters?

MARK:

Yes.

AGENT JENKINS:

How far south are our sensors effective?

MARK:

Through Argentina.......Don't look so surprised gentlemen. Can someone turn down the lights?

Lights are dimmed.

MARK:

Watch the video monitor and you'll see exactly what I have been talking about. This infrared footage was shot last night using a Predator Unmanned Aerial Vehicle from two miles away from the target.

AGENT SHAW:

Damn, that footage is clear.

MARK:

I know. I work with the UAVs all the time and I am constantly amazed with the resolution from the optical sensors both day and night. Look at the bottom of the screen gentlemen. There it is. The sub surfacing and now watch the raft race up. Keep your eye on the clock counter.

long pause

MARK:

Bam, sixty seconds flat! Now the sub has gone back under and the raft is in route to Black's Beach with one large bag of coke. Lights please.

Lights come on.

AGENT KELLY:

Any idea who is funding the operation?

MARK:

The guy on the raft has been identified as Alexandro Arellano-Felix aka "El Camino". That alone puts the spotlight right on the Felix family which is no surprise to anyone in this room.

AGENT KELLY:

What's the next step? What do you need from the rest of us?

MARK:

The next phase of this operation will be heavy on Human Intelligence. It's time for you HUMINT guys to make friends with Mr. Camino and company but the boss will brief you on that tomorrow.

Standing up from the table.

SAIC DONOVAN:

That's right, 1330 tomorrow back in this room. Do not be late!

Sits back down.

SAIC DONOVAN:

Carry on Mark.

MARK:

Yes sir.

Walking back to the map.

MARK:

We have an additional challenge gentlemen. Let me direct you back to the map. The blue area along the Arizona/Mexican border is the Tohono O'odham Indian Reservation which is the second largest reservation just behind the Navajo Nation. Recent ELINT from DAICC has identified significant fadeout data in the vicinity of the reservation.

SAIC DONOVAN:

Mark, explain what the DAICC is because not everyone in here is familiar with it.

MARK:

OK sir, well it's US Customs's primary detection and monitoring effort focused on unauthorized aircraft entering US territory. DAICC is the Domestic Air Interdiction Coordination Center and they use a wide variety of civilian and military ground-based radars, tethered aerostat radars, airborne reconnaissance aircraft and other detection assets. They conduct 24-hour surveillance along the entire southern border of the United States, Puerto Rico and the Caribbean.

Points to the area of the Reservation.

MARK:

International law mandates that all aircraft fly with activated beacons that emit identification signals. If an aircraft flies without an activated beacon, it shows up as a radar blip but without the associate beacon identifier. Many such aircraft have been tracked coming north from Mexico to the Reservation. Also, when an aircraft flys below 500 feet, it's beacon signal tends to fade out from the ground-based radars indicating a landing or possible low level drop. Again, many such aircraft have been identified in the vicinity of the Reservation.

AGENT JENKINS:

Has Customs made any arrests in the area?

MARK:

No arrests or seizures have been made yet. The biggest problem is that due to the sovereignty of the Indian Reservations, it literally requires authorization from Congress for any Law Enforcement Agency to enter. The only other way is to be invited on by Tribal Leadership and that has not happened at all.

AGENT JAMES:

What do you suggest we do Agent Austin?

MARK:

I suggest we exploit our HUMINT options as with the submarine challenge in San Diego. There is a lot we can be doing immediately while awaiting appropriate Congressional approval.

Special Agent In Charge, Donovan, stands up again.

SAIC DONOVAN:

Well said Mark and I will present that option at the Command Group meeting later today but for now let me end this meeting. Do not forget to read the After Action Report before you leave today.

As Mark walks down the hallway towards his office, his cell phone rings.

MARK:

Hello.

ANYA:

Hi babe it's Anya. Sorry to bother you but I was just calling to find out if you were going to be able to make it tonight to Ocean Avenue Brewery. If you can't, I understand.

MARK:

Yes, I will be there at 8pm. As far as bothering me goes, you can bother me any time day or night that you want too.

ANYA:

How's your day going so far, anything interesting going on?

MARK:

I could tell you but then I would have to kill you which would just ruin the entire evening!

She laughs.

ANYA:

You are crazy.

MARK:

Actually it has been a slow and quiet morning, just the usual boring conversations with a few of my co-workers, nothing of import.

ANYA:

Well, I'll let you get back to work. Have a beautiful day.

MARK

Da Cvidania darlin.

Hangs up the phone with a big smile on his face.

Donavan coming up from behind Mark.

SAIC DONOVAN:

Was that Annie? You two should come over for a drink this weekend.

MARK:

We would love too but Annie is back at her sister's in Florida. She is helping her open up a new woman's clothing store.

SAIC DONOVAN:

Well, give her my best. You're a lucky man.

MARK:

So I've been told.

Donavan walks away as Mark enters his office and closes the door behind him.

SCENE 6

INT. OCEAN AVENUE BREWERY - EVENING

Anya answers cell phone call from Rose.

ANYA:

Hi Rose, are you with your Dad?

ROSE:

Yes I am and the worst part is that we're having a great time together. I was hoping he would piss me off so I could leave him and join you but the idiot just bought me a car!

ANYA:

Oh my god, you're kidding me? No fucking way.

ROSE:

Way! It's the cutest red convertible Corvette you have ever seen!

ANYA:

Where are you guys at?

ROSE:

We're still at the dealership finishing up paperwork.

ANYA:

Is your Dad by you?

ROSE:

Yes, he's right next to me.

ANYA:

Put him on.

Rose hands her phone to her Dad.

ROSE:

Anya wants to talk to you.

DAD:

Hi Anya, what's up?

Geoff, you know you love me more than your daughter. She is so ungrateful and undeserving and who was it that made you cookies last month when you were sick? Where's my cute Corvette?

DAD:

You make some good points and those cookies were the best. Well sweetheart, I can't get you a car but I did get you something.

ANYA:

What is it?

DAD:

I'll let Rosita tell you. You take care and don't flirt with me. You're way to cute.

ANYA:

Bye Geoff.

Phone handed back to Rose.

ROSE:

So what did you say about me? I heard my name.

ANYA:

Oh, I was just telling your dad what a great friend you are and how much you deserve a new car.

ROSE:

You are such a bitch liar. If I didn't love you so much, I'd have nothing to do with you.

ANYA:

Well you got me for life. Now what did your dad get me?

ROSE:

You are going to die. He got us first class airline tickets and a luxury suite for a week in Hawaii!

Long pause.

ANYA:

I can't even think of what to say.

ROSE:

Hey babe, I gotta go. The salesman is ready to deliver the car to me. I am so excited. There was something I wanted to ask you but I can't remember what it is. Oh well, bye doll.

Anya is sitting at the bar in Ocean Avenue Brewery. As she finishes her conversation with Rose, she puts her cell phone back into her purse just as Mark walks in. Anya glances at the clock behind the bar and notices it's 7:59pm. Right on time, she thinks to herself.

MARK:

Greets her with a hug.

You look beautiful. Is Rose here?

ANYA:

No, she's out with her Dad getting a new car. I just got off the phone with her.

MARK:

Is the car for her or for her dad?

ANYA:

For her, of course, everything for Rose She's beautiful, smart, has a great job. Rose and her dad are best of friends and she loves me. I would like at least once to be jealous mad at her but it's impossible. When she pisses me off and I'm ready to yell at her, she looks at me with those I'm ready to cry eyes and all of a sudden I'm giving her a hug. Go figure.

Mark takes a seat at the bar next to Anya.

MARK:

Rose has an amazing ability to make ugly, beautiful. Do you know what I mean. I remember even as a kid how I fell off my bike trying to do a stupid trick and really hurt myself. My left arm was bleeding from my shoulder to my wrist. Rose ran over to me just as I was getting up out of the dirt, put her hands on my face, looked deep into my eyes and told me,"Everything will be OK". She gave me a quick kiss right on the lips and helped me up. At that moment, my entire body was pain free and I forgot I was even bleeding. It was like I was walking on clouds, as she walked me back to my house. That was the only time we ever kissed.

ANYA:

Sounds like you have a lot of feelings for Rose?

MARK:

Agape.

ANYA:

What's Agape?

MARK:

One of the three words the Greeks have for love: Eros, a physical love; Philos, a brotherly kind of love. That's why Philadelphia is the city of "Brotherly Love" and Agape, Unconditional love. That's Rose to me. Can you understand that?

ANYA:

Yes, I think I can. I think it's wonderful that you care for my best friend in the world the same way I do.

Waves to the bartender.

MARK:

Two red wines please. Anya, I had the worst dream last night and it involved you and Rose.

ANYA:

Go on.

MARK:

Well, the two of you came over to my house looking for me but I wasn't there. The house was completely empty and the two of you were going room to room calling for me. I could see you but you couldn't see me. It was like I was a ghost. You two went into the kitchen and started talking to Angel, a girl I met in Australia. I couldn't hear what was being said but I could see Angel laughing. Rose looked mad and you were crying. Seeing you cry made me start to cry and then I woke up. It bothered me so much that I couldn't go back to sleep. What do you make of the dream?

ANYA?

It's obvious.

MARK:

It is?

ANYA:

Sure, the empty house represents your marriage, Rose is mad because she actually loves you. This Angel girl has a secret that she will not let on about and the two of us were crying because of an impossible love.

The bartender puts down two glasses of wine.

MARK:

Anya, you are freaking me out.

They touch glass to glass

MARK:

Cheers!

ANYA:

Don't be mad at me.

MARK:

I'm not mad at you; I'm mad about you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLLxyNeeLMc&feature=related

Would you like to dance?

ANYA:

We'll be the only ones dancing.

MARK:

I could care less. This may be the only slow song played tonight. Let's take advantage of it.

ANYA:

Yes, let's.

to the bartender

Please watch my purse?

BARTENDER:

No problem Ma'am.

Mark leads her to the empty dance floor and they fall into a comfortable embrace. As they move to the music, Anya lets her hair down which falls over Mark's arms around her waist. Just as the bounce of her hair came to a rest down her back, Anya lifted herself onto her toes and gave Mark a very passionate kiss while a room full people looked on.

ANYA:

Don't ever tell me how or why another woman kissed you. Can you understand that Mr. Austin?

With a smile

MARK:

Yes, I think I can.

Holds her tight, as others start to dance around them.

MARK:

Anya, I know we have been here only a short while but I would like to take you somewhere special. If you permit, of course.

ANYA:

Where to?

MARK:

It's a surprise but local. It's not a hotel or a bedroom, so don't worry.

ANYA:

Who is worried? Sure, I'd love to see what you have planned but not until this song is over. Until then, shut up and hold me.

After the song concluded, they exited the dance floor and returned to the bar to get Anya's purse which the bartender placed next to the cash register under the clock.

ANYA:

Dave, can you hand me my purse love?

Hands her the purse.

BARTENDER:

Here you go. Are you leaving so soon?

ANYA:

I'm afraid so but we'll see you next Thursday.

BARTENDER:

Where's Rose?

ANYA:

She has some family visiting but she'll be back next week.

BARTENDER:

Great, I'll look forward to it and you Mr. Lucky, I've known Anya and Rose for well over a year. Play nice or I'll hurt you.

Looking at Mark very seriously.

I will happily go to jail to protect either of them.

Mark extends his hand to Dave and they shake.

MARK:

Point well taken and I like your style, Dave. We'll see you next week.

They exit to the street and are standing next to a black limousine.

ANYA:

Where is your car?

MARK:

Right here.

The chauffeur opens the rear door.

CHAUFFER:

You're car Ma'am.

Anya looks shocked.

ANYA:

Oh my God, what's this?

She gets in and Mark follows.

This is awesome hun. Where are we going?

MARK:

Actually not too far, We're going to Top of the World. It's just a short drive from here at one of the the highest points in Laguna Beach. It's just up Thalia which turns into Temple Hill and takes you up to the top.

Puts his arm around her.

Are you enjoying the evening?

ANYA:

God yes but if anyone else calls me Ma'am one more time, I am going to scream.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVdia_7a0Vw

She smiles and takes Mark's hand while resting her head on his shoulder.

MARK:

Life has to be lived in less than perfect situations.

Kisses her hair.

I love the fact that it's 9pm, the sun still hasn't completely set and we have each other, even if for one night.

She looks up at him a little concerned.

ANYA:

Why would you say one night?

MARK:

Poor choice of words, I'm sorry.

Holds her tight.

I never want to let you go.

ANYA:

Those are very dangerous words. Poor choice of words?

MARK:

Not a chance. Not a fucking chance.

Anya turns completely around, straddles Mark's lap and they start kissing until the limo comes to a stop.

Well darlin, we are here.

V.O NARRATIVE:

The limo stopped at a park at the end of a street called Alta Laguna. Moments later, the door opened up and the chauffeur helped Anya out, Mark followed. Anya smiled when she noticed a man in a tuxedo standing next to a picnic table adorned with a red table cloth, fine china, beautiful silver cutlery, food and drinks. Mark took her by the hand and they walked over.

MARK:

Anya, this is my dear friend Jonathan Kane and he will be serving us tonight under the stars.

Anya and Jonathan shake hands.

JONATHAN:

Good evening Ma'am.

ANYA:

Nice to meet you.

Anya walks a few steps away looking out over the ocean view and the almost completely set sun.

Mark, the view is beautiful. Come put your arms around me before we miss the sunset.

Mark comes up from behind and wraps his arms around her.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JnxSxYwBvN8

MARK:

Yes Ma'am!

Playfully elbowing Mark.

ANYA:

What did I say. Do you want to get hit?

Feeling Mark's arms around her, Anya leans back so Mark is supporting her while they both take in the view.

Three, two, one, gone. Well Mark, no more sun but I'd love to give you a daughter.

Sensing that Mark was about to speak.

Don't say a word; Just hold me. Hold me tight as if I was about to fall.

Long pause

God that feels good.

Anya lets out a deep sigh as they both stand there, as if supended in time and no one exist but them. After a few moments, Anya turns around and faces Mark. Running her finger across his cheek, she smiles at him.

Mark, do you remember what I said about your dream?

Again, Mark goes to answer Anya but she stops him by putting her finger to his lips.

Shhhh, I know you remember what I said. I have been thinking of that dream ever since you mentioned it to me.

Anya goes quiet for a few seconds.

You know what I feel for you?

MARK:

Actually, I don't.

Sliding her finger tips down his chest.

ANYA:

I do love you but when you look at the big picture and include Annie and Angel and Rose, things get very complicated, fast. I told you our love was impossible and did you notice that I did not hesitate when I said that?

Anya looks into Mark's eyes with concern.

I love you Mark but am I in love with you? That is what I am not sure off. Do I love you like Rose does? I honestly don't know.

Anya steps back never losing eye contact.

Mark, I don't say this to hurt you. I just don't want this to be a big mistake and lose what we have between us.

Anya breaks eye contact, turns and slowly walks a few feet away, leaving Mark standing behind her. She hears Mark walking up to her and anticipates another hug but Mark walks right by.

MARK:

Jonathan, we'll be back in a 10. Anya, walk with me.

V.O. NARRATIVE:

She is a little surprised but follows. He is walking so fast, it's hard for her to keep up. A few moments later, they have walked to the top of a small hill that Mark had found just the day before, giving them complete privacy. Anya didn't know what to expect next. By his actions, she thought it was all over and started to wonder if she did the right thing. Mark stopped walking next to a small wooden sign that read "Carolyn Wood Knoll". Anya stopped several steps behind. Mark turned and stood looking at her without saying a word with hands on hips. Anya stood there trying to catch her breath while twisting her hair into a bun. As Mark started to walk towards her, she met him half way. Standing toe to toe, Mark reached out and took her hair out of the bun, letting it fall down her back. He held her hair tight in a pony tail with his right hand, kissed her on the forehead and then kissed her cheek. Letting go of her hair, he slid his hands under her arms and held her tight as he gave her a very long and passionate kiss. When they finished, he took a few steps back.

MARK:

Anya, I have three things to say: One, I do not make mistakes; Two, Nothing happened with Angel. The opportunity was there but nothing happened; Three, I will always love Rose but it's the love of two friends. It's the love of a brother and a sister. We are both the only child. Growing up as neighbors in Newport Beach, she became my sister and I became her brother. My god Anya, we are both born on March 1st. I can't and I will not explain it again. On this issue, trust me or walk to the limo and I'll have the driver take you back to your car.

Without hesitation, Anya walks up to Mark and slaps him on the face.

ANYA:

Don't ever grab my hair like that again.

She throws her arms around his neck and they kiss.

I do trust you but at some other time I want to hear all about this Angel girl, OK?

MARK:

Sure that's not a problem. I'll tell you one thing. Australian girls are just too damn beautiful. Do you have any idea just how hard it is to say no to an Aussie girl? Of course you don't.

ANYA:

Are you sure about that, Mark?

She smiles at him. Hand in hand, they walk back down the trail to Jonathan and the waiting dinner.

JONATHAN:

Is everything OK with the two of you?

ANYA:

Jonathan, I don't even know you but you're a friend of Mark's. I know he's married. You know he is married. All three of us know Annie, I'm sure. this is crazy and we all know it but not as crazy as you in a tuxedo serving us dinner at a park.

She walks over and gives Jonathan a hug.

Someone told me once that life has to be lived in less than perfect situations. Can we eat now?

JONATHAN:

Yes. You two sit down, eat and enjoy the music.

Jonathan turns on a small CD player.

MARK:

What are we listening to, Jonathan?

MARK:

It is called "Sounds of the Ocean".

MARK:

If you didn't notice, were at the beach genius.

JONATHAN:

Almost true, from here you can see the water but you can't hear the waves. Now you can. Anya, I must warn you. I have never met anyone so in love with being at the beach as Mark. Why he didn't join the Navy is beyond me.

ANYA:

Well Jonathan, now you know two.

Anya leans over and gives Mark a kiss on the cheek. Just then, two police cars pull up behind the limousine. A Police Officer from each car gets out and walks over to the three of them at the picnic table. Mark starts to stand up.

OFFICER #1:

Sit back down and keep your hands were I can see them! What the hell is going on here?

Second Officer standing in front of Jonathan.

OFFICER #2:

Where's the alcohol son?

Jonathan looking a mad.

JONATHAN:

There is no alcohol here, Sir. We're just dinning alfresco. Is that against the law?

OFFICER #2:

I don't like your attitude smart ass. Now last time, where is the alcohol?

Both Officers start to rummage through personal items around the picnic table.

OFIICER #1:

What about you two? I know you have either alcohol or drugs here. We're not going anywhere until you tell us where it is.

Mark stands up.

MARK:

Officers, let me explain. Let me identify myself.

Both Officers draw their weapons, one pointing at Mark and one pointing at Jonathan

OFFICER #1:

Freeze! Do not move or I will shoot you where you stand.

Anya screams.

You in the tuxedo, move to the table, slowly. Let me see your hands at all times.

MARK:

OK, Officers, you now have control of the situation. Let me ID myself!

OFFICER #1:

Go ahead but move slowly.

MARK:

I am slowly removing my wallet to hand over to you.

Presents the wallet.

Officer One to Officer Two.

OFFICER #1

Get the wallet.

He walks over and takes the wallet.

Officer Two to Mark.

OFFICER #1:

Are you armed?

MARK:

Yes, I have a left side shoulder holster and a back up above my right ankle.

Officer One to Mark.

OFFICER #1:

Take five steps away from the table.

Mark does while Officer Two moves behind him, pats him down and removes both weapons.

OFFICER #2:

Go sit back down.

Mark walks back to the table.

ANYA:

What the hell is going on Mark?

Anya has a shocked look on her face.

MARK:

I'll explain in a minute.

Leans over and gives her a kiss on top of the head.

OFFICER #1:

Do either of you two have a weapon?

Simultaneously.

ANYA & JONATHAN:

No!

Officer Two to Mark.

OFFICER #2:

Thank you for complying. Being in Law Enforcement, you understand protocol. Please keep your hands where they can be seen while I call in your ID.

MARK:

No problem, Officer. Go ahead and contact the Laguna Niguel, DEA Headquarters.

Officer One to Jonathan.

OFFICER #1:

Take a seat.

Jonathan does at the table. After looking in Mark's wallet and making the necessary radio contacts, Officer Two holsters his weapon and tells his partner to do the same.

OFFICER #1:

All clear!

OFFICER #2:

Clear!

Officer One to Mark.

OFFICER #1:

Special Agent Austin, sorry for the inconvenience and let me get your weapons sir.

Anya stands up and Mark gives her a quick one arm hug as Officer One hands back his wallet and weapons.

ANYA:

Mark, what is going on and what is this shit about Special Agent?

Officer One to Anya.

OFFICER #1:

You didn't know he is a Special Agent with the Drug Enforcement Administration Special, Ma'am.

ANYA:

Who's a Special Agent?

OFFICER #1:

That would be the man standing next you.

Mark smiles at Anya and in a whisper

MARK:

Give me a minute. I'll be right back. I have to tell these good Officers something.

Mark steps away from Anya.

OFFICER #2:

Please accept our apology for any misunderstanding Ma'am.

Anya now looking very mad.

ANYA:

You two need to leave. Apology NOT accepted!

Mark to the Officers.

MARK:

Gentlemen, let's walk back to you cars.

V.O. NARRATIVE:

They follow Mark to the limousine. Neither Anya or Jonathan could hear what was being said but they had no problem seeing a very agitated Mark pointing his finger right in their faces while both Officers just stood there. Finally, the Officers got back in their cars and drove away as the limousine driver emerged from his vehicle looking like he just saw a ghost.

DRIVER:

That was awesome, totally freakin awesome! Mr. Austin, what just happened?

MARK:

Just a little Law Enforcement professional development.

Mark gives him a smile then walks towards Jonathan who has his right arm around Anya.

Well, let's eat.

Mark and Anya sit down while Jonathan starts to serve.

ANYA:

Mark, what exactly do you do for a living and why do you have guns I knew nothing about? I thought you were just some kind of Intelligence Analyst for the Government not a Special Agent with the Drug Enforcement Agency.

MARK:

It's Administration not Agency and yes, I am an Intelligence Analyst but once we locate the bad guys, we have to go get them. The weapons help. Does this bother you because I really could do without another woman walking out on me?

Anya leans in to whisper.

ANYA:

I am not ever going to walk out on you and you have no idea how turned on I am right now.

She kisses his ear.

JONATHAN:

What were you telling the Police before they left? I've haven't seen you that mad in a long time.

MARK:

What they did here was wrong on several levels. I love being in Law Enforcement and because of that, I get very pissed off when Cops over step their boundaries. When they do it to friends of mine, it's time for some corrective action and that is exactly what I did.

Anya puts her hand on Mark's shoulder.

ANYA:

So, I'm your friend am I? That makes me feel special.

MARK:

Would it be better if I told you I'm in love with you and it's tearing me up inside?

Runs his hand over her shoulder and down her arm.

If you want to feel special, go volunteer at a soup kitchen in a homeless shelter. My friends are my life.

Pointing at Jonathan.

I would die for that man. Yes, you are my friend. We may be lovers. You may be my wife but we will be friends first and foremost. I am married to a woman who does not want me as her friend and that hurts.

Puts both arms around Anya.

Never belittle the importance of friendship. I would rather be your friend and not your lover then be your lover and not your friend. Can you understand that?

Puts his hands on her shoulders and sees tears in her eyes.

Ya tebya lublu. I love you, Anya.

Lifts her chin so they are looking at one another.

You're an amazing woman.

ANYA:

Softly

Mark, all I ask is please be truthful with me. I love you too and I want this to work. My problem is, I don't know what... THIS... is but I am an adult and I know exactly what I am doing. Thank you for not passing judgment on me. I am in love with my friends husband. What kind of person does that make me?

They hug for a few seconds and then Anya wipes the tears from her eyes.

MARK:

Let's switch gears and enjoy the food, OK? What a crazy evening this has turned out to be. A bartender threatens me; You slap me in the face; Weapons are pointed at each of us and in a final act of political incorrectness, we tell each other that we are in love.

JONATHAN:

Hey you two, let me interject something. Just an observation. Looking at the two of you, I like what I see. Life is short and for some, way too short to be all tied up in relationships that for lack of words are less then edifying.

Anya's cell phone rings and she takes it out of her purse to answer.

ANYA:

Hi Rose, how's your new car?

ROSE:

Oh, it's fine but I just remembered what I wanted to ask you earlier. How are things going with Mark? Where are you guys at? You better not be at his house.

ANYA:

Everything is fine. He's here with me along with his very single friend, Jonathan.

Looks at Jonathan.

You're single aren't you?

JONATHAN:

Married with ten children.

ANYA:

Yes he is single.

ROSE:

What have you been doing all evening?

ANYA:

Well Mark put me in a limo, took me to a park for a sunset picnic catered by a guy in a tuxedo. Then at one point, I slapped him in the face for pulling my hair, shortly before the Police pulled guns on us. I found out Mark is a gun carrying Special Agent. Two guns to be exact and I watched him ball out two Cops. I cried once or twice tonight and we told each other that we're in love. Other then that, it has been somewhat boring.

ROSE:

Anya, you are such a bitch. If you don't want to tell me, just say so. I gotta go. Bye.

Rose hangs up on Anya.

ANYA:

Rose doesn't believe a word I said and you know what, I can hardlt believe it myself.

She laughs.

V.O. NARRATIVE:

Finally they had a chance to enjoy their dinner. Afterwards, they said goodbye to Jonathan and took the limousine to Anya's car which was parked right out front of the Brewery. The drive back was full of laughter, as they talked about what had happened. When the limo pulled up next to Anya's car, the streets were still full of people jumping from one bar to the next. After the chauffeur helped them out of the vehicle and drove away, Mark and Anya shared one last very long hug and kiss.

ANYA:

Mark, you're not calling it an evening already are you?

MARK:

That is exactly what I am doing. I'm one hug away from asking you to come home with me.

ANYA:

Then hug me you idiot!

MARK:

Ms. Guliano, I can not and will not ever tell you what to do but I am going home to take a cold shower, get a glass of wine and enjoy a Cuban cigar before I go to bed.

Anya steps forward and gives Mark a quick kiss on the cheek.

Thank you Mr. Austin for one of the craziest nights of my life. Yes, I am going home too where I will neither drink or smoke. What I will do is call Rose and tell her that I love you which will probably piss her off. Isn't life grand?

Mark watches as Anya drives off then get gets in his car and does the same.

SCENE 7

EXT. FRONT YARD OF HOUSE - MORNING

V.O. NARRATIVE:

It has been exactly three months since Annie left Mark and went to her sister's house in Dania Beach, Florida. The clothing store Annie was helping her sister to open had it's first day of business three weeks ago and so far, it has been a great success, exceeding their wildest expectations. Like clockwork, every Monday Annie receives another letter from Mark. Like clockwork, she writes "Return To Sender" on the envelope and puts it back into the mailbox.

TINA:

Annie, come inside. I made us a bite to eat.

ANNIE:

I'm coming. I just have to put a letter in the mail.

TINA:

Another from Mark that you will never read?

ANNIE:

Yes and I wish he would stop.

TINA:

Annie, for god sake, read the letter, please for me.

ANNIE:

Not now. Not ever and mind your own damn business!

Walks in the house, following Tina to the dining room.

TINA:

I love you little sister but don't you ever raise your voice to me again. If in your heart you believe that there is nothing more to say about your marriage, I'll respect that. I will not like it but I will respect your decision. Conversely, respect my right to say that I pray you two get back together. Since Alan died, not a day goes by that I don't cry for him to be with me and the kids. I know the pain dad must feel since mum died but to make it worse for him, both his kids left Australia to marry Americans.

Both sit down at the table to eat.

What on earth did he do to you? You are not telling me anything so I can only guess infidelity or abuse. I can see the infidelity. Hell, if you weren't my sister, I'd go after him but abuse, no way. If anyone is being abused, it's Mark.

ANNIE:

Real nice, Tina. Real nice. That helps a lot.

TINA:

I swear Annie. There have been times that I just wanted to scream at you for the way you talk to Mark. When you are in one of your moods, you can be a royal bitch. I can't believe Mark puts up with it.

Annie takes a drink of water.

ANNIE:

Tina, why can't I see in Mark what you do, what Rose does, what everybody does? When I am around him, I am immediately tense, not knowing if he is going to be called in to take part on a drug bust or if his Reserve unit is going to be sent back to fucking Iraq again. I can't do it, not a second time. You know how sick I got last time he got deployed and I never want to see him in the hospital again. Tina, I didn't sleep the first three days he was gone. I can't do it a second time.

Annie starts to cry but stops quickly as her mood changes.

I'm in a constant state of high anxiety and nothing, not a God Damn Thing seems to bother him! When I ask him about the war, he trivializes it to end the conversation then will sit looking out the window at the ocean playing his guitar and smoking his damn cigar for hours on end.

TINA:

Annie, for some people there is something that happens to them when the truth gets too close. They go silent as if to mask a hurt. I have no idea what he went through over there but one thing I have noticed is how he hugs a child like he doesn't want to stop, as if he is saying good bye for the last time. I saw that last March at his birthday party when Connie was leaving. Mark gave baby Carrie that exact hug and I saw a tear in his eye that no one else did and it made me cry. I had to go into another room to be alone. I waited years for the right man to come into my life and you are ready to throw Mark away without a second thought.

Looking right at Annie.

At times like this, I don't even know who you are?

ANNIE:

I feel as though Mark doesn't love me any more.

TINA:

Are you insane? Who the hell do you think you're talking too. You spend so much time manipulating the truth, you have no idea what the truth is anymore.

Standing up and walking around the dining room very agitated.

Feelings lie. Feelings can be wrong. If you feel distant from Mark, guess who moved. Divorse him, God Damn it but do not lie about that man! Too many of our family and your friends let you get away with murder....., "Oh she didn't mean it like that. She's so pretty and sweet and could never hurt a fly". The Voodoo magic you have over people sickens me. Disrespect Mark and this Italian/Australian girl will knock you on your ass!

Without a word, Annie storms down the hallway and slams the door to her room. Tina takes this opportunity to go outside to the mailbox where she takes out the letter from Mark and reads it:

Annie,

Please don't make this letter number five that you don't read. If your goal is to hurt me, you win. Job well done. Now what? I take full credit for everything that is bothering you. Let the world know it's all me. My love for you is based on your character not your condition. Can you understand that? It's your heart that I am after. I do not care what has been done or said in the past. I love you but you are making that very, very hard. You can not receive what you're unwilling to give and I really need you to give this marriage another try, especially now. I got my Deployment Orders yesterday. This time things are a bit different. My Company isn't going with me. It's a special detail posting based on a lot of stuff you have no interest in. Bottom line, for a very specific reason I have to go support a Black Ops mission. The good news is that I will be released as soon as we complete the mission. When true love happens, it's the single best thing I can pray for. It's a hill top kiss, It's holding hands walking through crowded streets and sometimes it's a well deserved slap in the face. I want love in my life. Not having it is no longer an option.

One Love

ANNIE:

What the hell are you doing, you bitch?

Annie comes storming out of the house carrying her suitcase.

Give me that fucking letter!

Grabs it out of Tina's hand and tears it up several times and throws it into the street.

Mark can go to hell, for all I care! He's the biggest mistake of my life!

Tina back-hands Annie right in the face who falls to the grass holding her nose.

TINA:

I told you, do not disrespect your husband!

SCENE 8

EXT. ESTABLISHING SHOT - DRIVING COAST - AFTERNOON

V.O. NARRATIVE:

The day couldn't be any more perfect, sunny, blue, warm. So nice that Rose convinced Anya to go with her for a drive up the coast in her new Corvette.

Pulls into Anya's driveway beeping her horn just as Anya comes out the front door.

ROSE:

Get in the car gorgeous. Let's go!

Half way to the car, Anya stops.

ANYA:

Oh shit, I forgot my cell phone.

ROSE:

You don't need it. For god sake, try to exist one day apart from your phone.

Anya runs back into the house and gets her phone.

ANYA:

OK Rose, let's go.

Gets into the car. What are you waiting for?

ROSE:

You didn't shut the front door genius.

ANYA:

Oh my god, I'm so sorry. I'll be right back.

Gets out of the car, runs up to shut the front door and gets back into the car.

OK, darling, now I am ready. Let's do it. By the way where are we going?

ROSE:

How does Santa Monica Pier sound?

ANYA:

Perfect! With the top down on your beautiful car, it will be totally fun!

ROSE:

Well, were not going there. I hate Los Angeles. Nothing but smog, traffic and several million people I really don't want to see.

Pulls out of the driveway and down the street.

ANYA:

Well, well, well. Someone needs to get laid, don't they?

Takes a picture of Rose driving

So, Rose, where are you taking me for real?

ROSE:

I thought we would just drive, listen to some music and get some sun. How does that sound?

ANYA:

Honestly, Ro, that sounds perfect. If Mark was here....

ROSE:

Honey, I love you much but let's not talk about Mark. Is that OK?

ANYA:

What's up? Did I do something wrong? Are you upset at Mark?

ROSE:

No, not at all. I just want today to be about us, only us.

Smiles at Anya.

ANYA:

OK, for you, anything.

Takes another picture, leans over and gives Rose a kiss on the cheek just as a truck with three guys in it pulls along side to share their approval with the kiss.

TRUCK DRIVER:

Great kiss, how about me?

Anya puts her hand on Rose' breast and yells back

ANYA:

Sorry, I only fuck women!

Just then, as all three guys looked at the girls unable to come up with a response and they rear ended a Police car.

ANYA:

Holy Shit! Step on it Rose!

They speed away laughing and waving back at the guys

ROSE:

Anya, you are one crazy bitch. That was totally awesome!

Anya changes the radio station

ANYA:

Rose can I ask you a favor?

ROSE:

Of course, what do you need.

ANYA:

I need to tell you something that is heavy on my heart and it involves both of us but in a really good way.

ROSE:

Is it about Mark?

ANYA:

Yes, do you hate me?

ROSE:

Don't be stupid. What's on your mind?

ANYA:

Rose, I love him. I absolutely Love Captain Mark Dante Austin. Special Agent Austin. Childhood friend of Rose, Austin. Austin Texas, Austin. I don't even know what I mean by that one but you get the point.

Takes a third picture of Rose driving

ROSE:

Anya, are you ready to break up a marriage? Is it worth it? Is he worth it?

ANYA:

Da!

ROSE:

Da what?

ANYA:

Da, that's yes in Russian.

ROSE:

You've got to be kidding. Now he has you speaking Russian. Give me a fucking break.

V.O. NARRATIVE:

As Anya started talking about Mark, Rose couldn't help but remember the countless opportunities she had to tell Mark how she really felt about him and never did anything. Even before Mark and Annie were married, Rose knew she was in love with him but for some reason just couldn't bring herself to saying anything. She recalled a time as kids when she saw Mark hurt himself and ran over to help him up, giving him the first and only kiss on the lips they ever shared. She held his hand and walked him home that day in total silence. Why didn't HE say anything? Why didn't HE say, I love you Rose?

ANYA:

Rose, Mark spent the night with me on Thursday. After we left Ocean Avenue, for the first time, I convinced him to come in. Well one thing lead to another and as he was in the kitchen looking through my refrigerator, I came up behind him wearing only my robe which was wide open.

ROSE:

So you fucked him, great story. Yeh, Anya fucks a married man.

ANYA:

Wait. Let me finish. Well, I stood there letting him look at me and gave him a special little one lady show that I know he enjoyed. Boys are so predictable. Any how, he walked over, put his hands softly on my face and kissed me. I tried to let the robe fall to the ground but he closed my robe. We were both standing there silent while he tied my robe closed. Holding my hand, he walked me to the bedroom, shutting off the lamp in the living room as we walked by. I sat on the bed not knowing what to do. I felt like a school girl in trouble. He took off his shirt and shoes, leaving his pants on and he got into bed with me. He put his arm around me and we laid there so close I could feel his chest rise and fall with each breath. Rose, he didn't even put his hand on my breast but he did kiss me on the cheek and told me that he wants love in his life and not having it is no longer an option. Honestly, I didn't really know what he was trying to say but I had so many tears in my eyes that it just didn't matter. Is it worth it? Is he worth it? Yes, with all my heart, yes! I thank God every night that you pointed him out to me at the bar.

Anya starts to take another picture of Rose

ROSE:

Please stop, no more pictures while I am driving!

ANYA:

OK, relax. Let's just listen to some music

Anya reclines her seat and closes her eyes to enjoy the drive with the top down.

V.O. NARRATIVE:

As the music plays, Rose can not stop her tears from falling. She knows now that Mark will never be hers and that hurts. It hurts very bad. She looks painfully towards Anya who will never know how much those words she just spoke cut into her heart, "I thank God every night that you pointed him out to me at the bar". Those words echo through her very soul like the never ending distant roar of summer thunder. Childhood memories of special times spent alone with Mark bring a much welcomed smile to her face, the secrets they kept from their parents, the dreams they shared of one day being married, their one and only kiss. Rose's smile was for the history between them. At least that couldn't be taken away, she thought as joy once again turned to sorrow. She wiped away tears as she remembered the first time she knew that she was in love with Mark. It was at his Mother's funeral. As the casket was finally being lowered, everyone, absolutely everyone burst into tears as twelve year old Mark walked forward through the crowd of people to place a single white rose on it. His father put his hand on Mark's shoulder and asked him if everything was alright. With tears streaming down his face, Mark cried out, "No Dad, everything is not alright! Do something Dad! Don't let them take her! Please Dad, do something"! At which point, he ran from his father to Rose and hugged her as they stood there crying in each other's arms. Rose let out a deep breath.....What if I had told him? Would things be different now? She glanced over once again at Anya only to realize this time that Anya was watching her.

ANYA:

What is it Rose?

Without answering, Rose shakes her head twice and looks back towards the road.

ANYA:

Rose....

Giving Anya a forced smile

ROSE:

Just give me a minute, OK?

ANYA:

OK.

Rose turns up the song,"Something Real", on the radio. A few minutes later as the song concludes, she pulls into an empty parking lot and gets out of the car, walking several steps away wiping tears from her eyes. Anya gets out as well, walks around, shuts the driver's side door and walks up to Rose.

ANYA:

Honey, what's going on? Talk to me, please.

ROSE:

Did you hear that song on the radio?

ANYA:

Yeah, I did. What's that got to do with anything?

ROSE:

It's called "Something Real". That's what I want, Anya, something real. Something what you now have with Mark.

Reachs out and holds both of Anya's hands

Anya, I love Mark! I have been in love with him since we were twelve. When he married Annie, I stayed in bed for a week and cried. When you thanked me for pointing him out at the bar, I wanted to scream! I don't blame you and I don't blame Mark. I blame myself for not saying anything, not saying a damn thing for the past fifteen years! Maybe if I had told him, well things might be different now and I would be the one he was in love with. As of today, reality has hit home and I now realize that he will never be mine.

Starting to cry again, she hugs Anya

I am so, so sorry Anya for loving him.

Continuing to hug, now Anya is starting to cry

ANYA:

Never doubt that Mark loves you Rose. He does. It's just not the same love you have for him but baby girl, you have something with Mark that no one can ever take from you. It's his unconditional love. Not me, not Annie or that tart, Angel, he met in Brisbane will ever have the special bond that exists between the two of you. It is so strong Rose. He made that abundantly clear to me.

Both wiping tears from their eyes

ROSE:

Will I find my something real, Anya?

With a smile

ANYA:

Of course you will. There is a man out there with your name written all over his heart waiting to meet you. Have faith in that. An untested faith is no faith at all.

Anya wipes a final tear from Rose's cheek

He will come into your life and sweep you off your feet. I promise you Rose that true love is out there and will come into your life at exactly the right moment. When that happens, Mark and I will be a distant memory.

ROSE:

God, I hope you are right, Anya.

ANYA:

Now get a smile on that pretty face of yours and take me for a drive. Show me what my car can do.

Rose laughs finally

ROSE:

What's this "My Car" bullshit?

ANYA:

The only reason your dad gave you this car is that he was too shy to give it to me. Your dad wants me more then you want Mark.

Smiles at Rose

ROSE:

You are one sick and demented whore.

Smiles and takes Anya by the hand

Thank you for not hating me. It must be hard knowing that I love him just as much as you do.

ANYA:

What's not to love about the man? Just shows that you and I have excellent taste. Now, get in the damn car and drive or I will.

They both get back into the vette

ROSE:

Anya, you better buckle up sweetie.

Anya does buckle up and starts to play with the radio

ANYA:

Let's go woman! What are you waiting for?

ROSE:

I have two things to say to you. Number one: Do not grab my tit when I am driving.

ANYA:

Oh, you loved it.

ROSE:

And number two: Stay away from my father or I'll have to kill you

At which point, Rose floors the gas pedal slamming Anya to the back of her seat as they speed away, both laughing.

SCENE 9

INT. ESTABLISHING SHOT - AFTERNOON

Mark's office at the DEA facility, a female agent comes to see him

AGENT WILLIAMS:

Is Mark in?

Secretary removes her glasses

LINDA:

If you're referring to Agent Austin, He is in but cannot be disturbed for the next 8 minutes and 42 seconds from...

listens for music to start in Mark's office

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYOV8uu17t0

now!

AGENT WILLIAMS:

What's he doing in there? What's that hideous music?

LINDA:

He's reviewing some video footage and he does that everytime while listening to Ted Nugent's "Stranglehold". I've heard it so many times that I have clocked it at 8 minutes and 18 seconds. He says it helps him focus.

AGENT WILLIAMS:

You have got to be kidding?

Puts glasses back on slowly

LINDA:

Do I give the impression that I am kidding Agent Williams? Can I take a message?

AGENT WILLIAMS:

Tell Agent Austin his deployment briefing has been moved up and starts in 15 minutes.

LINDA:

Anything else?

AGENT WILLIAMS:

Yes, tell him his taste in music sucks. That's all.

Agent Williams departs

V.O. NARRATIVE:

In Mark's office, the music is very loud which seems to have no effect on him as he sits at his desk watching aerial surveillance video footage from Iraq on a large computer flat screen. He's taking notes but they are all in Russian as he moves to the beat of the music. The imagery is of four men and one woman standing by a white sedan in what looks like some kind of storage center. As he continues to take notes, Mark writes "Anya 2 night" on the top of the page. Throughout the video, he freeze frames certain images, enlarges them with a few kew strokes and prints them off. As the music ends, he turns off the video just as there is a knock at the door.

MARK:

Come in!

LINDA:

Sir, your 2pm deployment briefing has been rescheduled and starts in 7 minutes.

MARK:

Thank you very much.

Walks across the room to pick up some documents.

Linda, could you please hand me the notebook on my desk?

She sees two there

LINDA:

Which one? The blue or the one that says Anya 2 night on it?

Mark walks over and takes the notebook he needs.

MARK:

Thanks Linda, that is all.

Linda leaves but stops to give him a final glance and smile before shutting the door behind her. A few minutes later, Mark walks into the briefing room and hands the DVD he had just been reviewing to Agent Williams.

MARK:

File this when we're done here, OK.

AGENT WILLIAMS:

Sure. Was there anything of interest on it?

MARK:

Not a damn thing. The imagery itself was outstanding but of no real value.

V.O. NARRATIVE:

Sitting around a large oval shaped black table are Col. Gregory Crites, Mark's Army Reserve Unit's Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Sean Matthews, Special Operations Command's Senior Intelligence Officer, FBI Intelligence Analysts, Victor Jamison and Fernando Hernandez, CIA Agents, Joseph Dimato and Tim Hale, DEA Special Agent Connie Hex, who was recently assigned to Mark's Team and Special Agent In Charge, Donovan. Mark takes a seat next to Col Crites.

MARK:

Well, this is a pleasant surprise.

Reaching over to shake hands

Brigadier General Matthews very nice to finally meet you, Sir.

SAIC Donovan stands up to start the meeting.

SAIC DONOVAN:

All right, lets get started. I'll bypass the introductions since we all know one another and jump right into it. Mark, because of the sensitive nature of having Federal Agents in country, it was decided to send you to Iraq under Army orders. You being an Army Captain in the Reserves makes this all possible. Now for the good news and the bad news. What do you want first?

MARK:

Let's go for the bad.

SAIC DONOVAN:

You ship out in three weeks. I know the orders you were initially given have your deployment date as August 15 but the situation has changed. Now for the benefit of Col. Crites who is the only one in here who has not been pre-briefed, let me explain why we have so much brass here just for Agent Austin's deployment briefing. Four years ago, Agent Austin while undercover was successful in establishing a close personal relationship with one of our most wanted Eastern European drug smuggling King Pins, a Ms. Gelnike Mici. Russian born, her parents were actually Albanians who called Kosovo home. What started as a pretty straight forward drug investigation turned dramatically different when it was realized that Ms. Mici was not only involved with but masterminded what has been termed the "Kosovo Kristallnacht" after the horrific killing of Jews by the Nazis. Because of this political tie-in and her involvement as a leader with the KLA is why we have CIA and FBI with us today. Because the mission Mark is going on is in territory controlled by Special Operations Command is why BG Matthews is with us today. He's the SOCOM Chief of Intelligence........Mark talk to us about Ms. Mici.

MARK:

Sure, no problem........Several months ago, I was under cover. Gelnike Mici and I were in the Bahamas staying at Paradise Island. She was convinced I was a Russian drug smuggler and we were collaborating on moving heroin and cocaine through Southern Iraq. Al-Qaeda needs the drugs. They have all the money and guns they can handle but without the promise of a free and endless supply of drugs, they don't have any fighters. They know they're seriously outmatched by the American and British Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines. All they got going for them is a large pool of young men that they continuously keep pumped up on drugs to go fight and die against us. Oh yeh, don't forget about the promise of the virgins when they die.

Everyone laughs.

CIA AGENT HALE:

Deep under cover, I'm sure.

Agent Hale's attempt at humor. Mark just pauses to quietly give him a very disapproving look.

MARK:

As I was saying, that evening she received an emergency phone call that turned into a private jet flight direct to Pristina, Kosovo an hour later for the two of us. Without getting into too much detail, for the next two weeks, I was a welcomed guest among a small army of anti-Serbian separatists, most were Albanians, all were KLA. I had to sit around and smile while they planned nothing short of a pogrom of Serbian Christians. I never felt so helpless in my life. There were 20,000 NATO/KFOR troops and UNMIK police in the area but I couldn't get to any of them without compromising the operation.

AGENT HALE:

Couldn't or wouldn't?

Agent Hale's second unwanted interruption. Mark pretends not to hear it.

MARK:

Well the shit hit the fan as you all know on March 17th. Over a three day period, dozens of Serbs were killed and no less then 4,000 were forced to flee from the Kosovo province. This was a very well organized pogrom against Serbs by Kosovo Albanians. For reasons I cannot get into here, Ms. Mici and her co-conspirators have not been brought to justice yet. I am the only one who has first hand knowledge of the top folks we are now after.

AGENT HALE:

Only because you sat back as Serbs were slaughtered.

The third and final unwanted interruption by Agent Hale. Mark stands up and very uncharacteristically raises his voice.

MARK:

Agent Dimato, pleasure having you here for my briefing. Hale, you need to learn to shut the fuck up when adults are talking. If you have a problem with me, put your weapon on the table and let's take a walk, if you're man enough.

SAIC Donovan stands up to calm Mark down but sits back down allowing Mark to continue.

Remember son, The CIA needs me on this mission. I need fucking nothing from the CIA.

Agent Hale stands up.

AGENT HALE:

My dear Agent Austin, CIA Intel needs very little from you. A simple couple positive ID's and you're done. I have said all along, we don't need you at all! Others disagree. Our Intel is flawless and can do it without you.

Mark gets even louder and more agitated.

MARK:

Flawless, my ass!

SAIC Donovan whispers to Brigadier General Matthews.

SAIC DONOVAN:

This should be good.

MARK:

It was Fucked up! CIA Inel that convinced President Clinton and Secretary of State, Warren Christopher to pressure Israel to let Mohammed Atta go free from jail as part of the 1993 Oslo agreement with the Palestinians. That Mother Fucker thanked the US by flying an airplane into Tower One of the World Trade Center. My sister and her four year old daughter were on that plane, you son of a bitch!..........Excuse me boss, gentlemen, Connie. I'm out of here!

Walking out of the room, Mark points at Agent Hale.

Tim, agents like you make the CIA the loved and admired organization it is today.

Mark slams the door behind him, exits the building, gets in his car and drives off.

SAIC DONOVAN:

Well, I guess that concludes Agent Austin's Deployment Briefing. Agent Hale, we need to talk.

Mark is driving and still very mad. He is on the freeway heading to his Army Reserve unit in Los Alamitos to see Jonathan when his cell phone rings. It's Anya.

MARK:

Anya, Anya, Anya, you have no idea how glad I am you called me.

ANYA:

Is everything OK?

MARK:

Perfect, absolutely perfect. People are great, life is grand.

ANYA:

Well, I am glad you are having a good day. I have a flat tire. Rose has a new vette and I have a flat tire, go figure.

MARK:

Where are you?

ANYA:

Laguna Hills Mall, right by the Main Entrance. To make things even better, I am babysitting a friends little boy. I took him shopping and when we came out, my front driver side tire was flat.

MARK:

Don't stress. I'll be there in 7 minutes and 38 seconds.

ANYA:

How can I ever repay you? All I have is my smile.

MARK:

Your smile gives me what I need not what I deserve.......

ANYA:

This is neither the time or the place to get philosophical on me. The baby just wet himself and is pulling my hair. I have to go. Bye the way, that was sweet what you just said, now, get your ass over here!

She hangs up the cell phone and gives it a kiss.

Baby boy, let's go get you changed.

Anya grabs the baby bag and goes back into the Mall to change the baby in the Ladies Restroom. 10 minutes later, Anya and baby Phillip walk back to the car and see Mark standing next to it.

ANYA:

I did not think you would actually be here this fast.

MARK:

Thanks for the vote of confidence.

Mark gives Anya a kiss on the lips and takes hold of the baby.

So who is this?

ANYA:

This is Phillip. He is 18 months old today and we are out on the town to celebrate! He's my neighbor, Karen's, little guy. She had a doctor appointment so I volunteered to babysit. Now, I have this wonderful flat.

MARK:

I'll change your tire but let me walk with Phillip for a second.

Mark gives Anya a second, then a third kiss on the lips and goes for a walk holding Phillip close to his chest.

ANYA:

Don't be long.

Anya stands watching her two men walk in and out of the parked cars. She smiles watching Mark raise Phillip into the air and lower him for a kiss on the cheek.

MARK:

Phillip, you are the luckiest guy in town, spending all day with the most beautiful woman in the world. I almost shot a CIA Agent a half hour ago and you, little man, have spent all day being hugged and kissed by Anya.

Holds Phillip in front of him so they are looking eye to eye.

Promise not to tell Anya? Well OK then. When I get back from a place called Iraq, I am going to marry that girl. Now don't go telling all your baby friends. I want it to be a surprise.

Walking up to Anya.

Now remember Phillip, you promised not to tell.

Anya takes Phillip.

ANYA:

What did my little Angel promise not to tell me?

MARK:

It's on a need to know basis and you my pretty friend don't need to know yet.

ANYA:

OK then, don't tell me. My turn to take Phillip for a walk while you get to change my tire.

ANYA:

Can't I just buy you a new car? I hate changing tires.

ANYA:

Don't be such a little girl. Be a man and go to work. You have five minutes.

Mark starts to change the tire as Anya takes Phillip for a walk around the same cars he just did.

ANYA:

OK Phillip, spill the beans. What did that mean old Secrect Agent Man tell you? You can trust them with your life but they never tell you shit. Do you know how frustrating that is? You better not do that when you grow up. Now it's my turn to tell you a secret.

Holds Phillip out in front of her so they are eye to eye.

Phillip you better not tell any one, OK?

Gives him a kiss.

I love that mean old man and I want nothing more then to be his mean old woman and have his mean old kids like you running all over the house. If he asked me right now to marry him, I'd say yes!

She walks up to Mark still talking to Phillip.

Now Phillip remember, you promised not to say anything.

MARK:

OK, Phillip what did she say? Come clean.

Tries to take Phillip but Anya smiles and holds him tight to her chest.

Mark walks up closer and kisses Anya. Your car is fixed, my dear.

ANYA:

Phillip and I thank you. I need to get him home. Are we on for Ocean Avenue Brewery tonight? It's Thursday.

MARK:

Yes, what time? It's going on 3:30pm now. I have cleaning I need to do at the house so dinner with you is out. How about 7pm?

MARK:

Is Rose coming?

ANYA:

Do you want Rose coming?

MARK:

I would love to have Rose cuming, two or three times.

ANYA:

You are a sick pervert. Why do I put up with you? Yes, Rose will be with me.

Mark takes Phillip and secures him in the babyseat.

MARK:

I only ask because I invited Jonathan to join us.

ANYA:

If you are trying to fix him up with Rose, this is not a good time.

MARK:

What do you mean?.......Forget I asked. Trying to understand a woman is like an ant trying to understand the internet. OK, no match making but he is still coming with me. We'll see you at seven.

Both get into their cars and drive off in separate directions.

SCENE 10

EXT. DOWNTOWN LAGUNA BEACH - ESTABLISHING SHOT - SUNSET

Jonathan waves to the waitress.

JONATHAN:

Excuse me. What's your name?

WAITRESS:

Lorraine, Lorraine Carey.

JONATHAN:

What a beautiful accent. Where are you from?

WAITRESS:

Limerick, Ireland. Have you ever been to Ireland?

JONATHAN:

Sorry to say, I have not. How on earth did you end up in Laguna Beach? Don't get me wrong. I am thrilled you are here.

WAITRESS:

It's a long story. Last year I went on a US tour with my boyfriend's band. We are all from Limerick. Everything was great until last June when they played in Hollywood at the Whiskey. After the show, I went back stage and caught Daragh with some Yank tart who had her top off and the rest, I really don't want to talk about. Hey, enough about me, what can I get the two of you?

JONATHAN:

Guinness, Mother's Milk.

WAITRESS:

Excellent choice.

As she walks away, she turns to catch Jonathan looking at her and gives him a smile.

MARK:

What the fuck was all that about? I'm much better looking then you.

JONATHAN:

Not according to Ms Carey. Damn, she's a hottie!

MARK:

What are you, fifteen years old?

JONATHAN:

Tell me you don't think she's beautiful.

MARK:

Yes Jon, she is. Actually, now that you mention it, she is absolutely beautiful. God bless the Irish!

JONATHAN:

Mark, let me ask you something. What is the craziest relationship you have ever had?

MARK:

I wouldn't call it crazy but odd would be fair.

JONATHAN:

Who was she?

MARK:

She was a girl I met accidentally online.

JONATHAN:

This better not be a sick perverted MYSPACE story.

MARK:

No, not quite. Actually what happened was.....

The waitress puts down the 2 beers

JONATHAN:

Thanks Lorraine.

She touches his cheek as she walks away.

MARK:

As I was saying, what happened was that I was sending a family friend a simple email thanking her for sending me a birthday present. My birthday is March 1st Jonathan, if you're taking notes.

JONATHAN:

I couldn't care less. Now finish the damn story.

MARK:

Any how, she lives in Australia in a town called Newcastle which is a few hours drive north of Sydney. Somehow, I screwed up the email address and my thank you note went to the wrong person. Immediately, I get an email back from a girl telling me Happy Birthday and that she was the wrong person. She ended by saying that her birthday was March 1st too. I am still perplexed on how that email even got through. Any how, that started everything. Over the next several months, we emailed back and forth constantly. What was freaking me out was how much we had in common. She liked Black Sabbath, I like Black Sabbath. Her dad was a truck driver. My dad was a truck driver. I already told you our birthdays are both on March 1st. Here's something very typical of our conversations. I just got back to my office from a lunch date with a friend at the STARBUCKS right by work. The one I took you to a few weeks ago.

JONATHAN:

If I tried, I couldn't care less. What the hell happened?

MARK:

Well, when I got back, I sent her a quick email to say Hi and I told her I just got back from STARBUCKS. I didn't even know if she knew what a STARBUCKS was? Well, she emailed me right back to tell me that she had just returned from a STARBUCKS in the city of Charlestown with her friends Sheri and Rebecca. I read that email and said "What the Fuck"!

JONATHAN:

So what happened? Did you ever call her?

MARK:

Actually to that point, we never exchanged phone numbers. I told her she could have mine any time she wanted it but in typical fashion, she ignored me when I said something inappropriate. Jonathan, this is very embarrassing to say but I was falling in love with a girl I never met. How fucking retarded is that?

JONATHAN:

So what happened?

MARK:

Actually, things came to a screaching halt. I received an anonymous email which informed me that she had a boyfriend, in the States no less and that I should back off! Well, we talked about it a few times until finally I sent her a message letting her know on one hand that I had very strong feelings for her and on the other hand that she needed to work this out with the other guy.

JONATHAN:

Did you do a background on this guy?

MARK:

What the fuck do you think, genius? I know more about this mother fucker then his gay, twenty five year old, born-again, Christian, vegan, step-brother, Bobby, does. The worst thing about him is that he's OK. He's more then OK. He's a truly awesome man. He is so clean that he makes me and you look like sick perverts.

JONATHAN:

That's because we are sick perverts.

MARK:

That may be so but you can understand how absolutely hurt I felt knowing what a great couple they would make. I'm talking real hurt Jonathan. Our communications stopped completely. I deleted every one of her emails and her email address as well. I'll always remember the day I did that. I cried like a fucking baby while sitting at my desk. I tried in vain to erase her from my mind. That proved to be an impossible task. Who ever said, "The only way to get over a girl is to get under a girl" is an idiot. That doesn't work. I found that theory flawed many many times over the following weeks. Then one day, I'm sitting in a briefing on the fucking Arellano-Felix drug cartel and my laptop makes a beep. I look down and see that she sent me an email with her phone number in a very short note that read,"Call me now"! I almost fell out of my chair. It was something I wanted to do for the longest time and now that the opportunity was right there, I was totally nervous like a damn kid.

JONATHAN:

So, what did you do?

MARK:

I made up some lame excuse; left the briefing and I called her from my office. Initially, I dialed the wrong country code and woke up some old lady in Auckland, New Zealand. Finally, when I heard her voice for the first time, it was exactly how I imagined it would be. You know, that crazy Aussie accent that I completely love. To make a long story longer, a month later I flew to Sydney and drove the two hours to Newcastle, the same town my friend Leanne lives in. I knocked on her front door. When she opened the door, Oh my God, I couldn't speak. She looked so beautiful standing there in her flowered dress, bare feet and long wavy blond hair. It's so odd. At that exact moment I recalled something my sister had said to me before she died,"Live for the moments you can't put into words". When she first said that to me, I didn't understand what she meant. Standing there for the first time, I knew. I finally got it.

JONATHAN:

So what happened? Did you hug, kiss, make love? Give me something!

MARK:

Actually, she invited me in to meet her dad who I will be a dear friend of mine until the day I die. Jonathan, she was perfect. I can't say it any better. She was simply perfect!

JONATHAN:

So what the fuck ever happened with her. Where is she today?

With an unexpected tear in his eye.

MARK:

What happened was that I married her. That girl is Annie and I don't have a fucking clue as to where my wife is today. That hurts Jonathan. It hurts real bad.

Turns his head to wipe his eyes dry. Just then, Anya and Rose come walking into the club and start talking to their friend, the bartender.

JONATHAN:

Mark, the girls are here.

MARK:

Oh.... my.... god, she looks so fucking beautiful.

JONATHAN:

You don't have to tell me. You're the luckiest mother fucker I know. That crazy long hair of hers is incredible.

MARK:

Who are you talking about, Jonathan?

JONATHAN:

Who are you talking about?

MARK:

Rose Alison.

JONATHAN:

Now I am completely confused.

Anya waves at Mark.

MARK:

Rose is my best friend in the world and she happens to look extremely hot tonight.

JONATHAN:

HOT? Friends don't refer to their friends as hot.

MARK:

Save the psychoanalysis.

JONATHAN:

Give me a break. Are you going to tell me that you never once thought about Rose in a sexual way?

MARK:

Your question is sick and perverted. I love the idea of being in love with Rose but we have too much history. It could never work. She considers me at best her surrogate brother.

As the girls walk up to the table, Mark and Jonathan stand up. Mark gives Anya a quick hug and then one for Rose.

Jonathan, the answer to your question is Yes!

JONATHAN:

I thought so, you dog.

Every one sits down. Anya leans over and gives Mark a kiss on the cheek.

ANYA:

What are the two of you talking about?

MARK:

Oh, he just asked me if I wanted another Guinness.

Anya holding Mark's face.

ANYA:

Look at me. Is that really what he asked you?

Avoiding eye contact.

MARK:

Well, You see...

Jonathan stands up.

JONATHAN:

Yes Anya, that's what I asked him.

Shakes Rose's hand

Hi, my name is Jonathan

Sits back down.

ROSE:

I'm Rose

smiles at him politely.

Anya gives Mark a kiss on the lips.

ANYA:

Both of you are terrible liars but I adore loyalty.

Mark reaches over the table and holds Rose's left hand

MARK:

This guy is a no good, double talking cheat. He can't be trusted and I think he may be a homosexual.

ROSE:

So you're not sure?

MARK:

I'm pretty sure. Just look at his shirt. He's either gay or European. I can never tell.

ROSE:

Well, why don't I take him to my car, take off my clothes and find out?

MARK:

Rose, you have a very mean and disturbed sense of humor.

ROSE:

I wonder where I got it from?

She smiles at Mark as Anya separates their hands.

ANYA:

OK, enough. Do I need a hose to separate you two?

Jonathan puts on his best sad face.

JONATHAN:

So does this mean I don't get to go to the car?...........Damn!

Mark waves the waitress over

MARK:

A bottle of Chateau La Mondotte Saint-Emilion please.

WAITRESS:

Sorry, we don't have anything like that here.

MARK:

Yes you do. Go tell the bartender. He'll know what to do.

WAITRESS:

If you say so. I'll be right back.

MARK:

Hey girls, I have something to tell you.

ROSE:

Mark, let me go first. Anya and I have something to tell you that is both good and bad news.

MARK:

OK, go ahead.

ROSE:

Our friend Dani invited us out to Vegas, girls only.

MARK:

Any special event?

ROSE:

No, just girls getting together to talk shit about men and how perverted you all are.

MARK:

I resemble that insult.

ANYA:

Mark, I don't have to go.

Puts his hand on Anya's and gives her a kiss.

MARK:

What's the bad news, Rose?

ROSE:

The bad news is that Anya and I will be leaving on such short notice. We are going to drive and will be leaving around 11am tomorrow.

MARK:

Why don't you fly?

ROSE:

We are going to fly, in my Corvette that is.

MARK:

Funny, very funny.

Anya runs her hand along Mark's arm.

ANYA:

Honestly, I don't have to go if you don't want me too.

The waitress puts wine glasses down and tries unsuccessfully to open the wine bottle. Jonathan reaches for the bottle.

JONATHAN:

Let me give you a hand FBI Woman.

She hands Jonathan the bottle with a smile.

WAITRESS:

I apologize about not knowing about the owners private wine collection. How did you know about it?

MARK:

Just a hunch love. Here's for your trouble.

Hands her a hundred dollar bill.

WAITRESS:

Is this for the bottle of wine?

MARK:

Dear, that would pay for a glass of this wine. No, the money is for you.

WAITRESS:

I am so embarrassed that I couldn't open the wine for you. I'm not strong enough I guess.

JONATHAN:

Don't be silly. You're just fine.

He opens the bottle.

The waitress puts her hand on Jonathan's shoulder.

WAITRESS:

Thanks for helping me.

She smiles only at Jonathan and walks away.

ROSE:

Did you all see that? That slut was hitting on Jonathan right in front of me.

JONATHAN:

Rose, she was just being nice to me.

ROSE:

Nice my ass. She acted as though I wasn't even here. What if we were a couple?

JONATHAN:

Rose, we're not a couple.

ROSE:

Yeah but she didn't know that.

Anya starts to laugh.

ANYA:

Oh my god, you're jealous and it has nothing to do with you know who. I like the way that looks on you.

Mark takes a sip of wine.

MARK:

Who are you talking about? Is Rose in love? I pitty the fool.

Rose leans over the table and slaps Mark's arm.

ROSE:

Fuck you.

MARK:

See, this is why Rose and I never dated. She hates me.

Rose goes silent and sips her wine. Mark notices a tear slipping down her cheek

Rose, I was just kidding.

He stands, walks over, kneels next to her and they hug as Rose starts to cry.

ROSE:

Please Mark, never say I hate you not even as a joke.

MARK:

Rose Alison, I am so, so very sorry. Please don't cry. I will love you until the day I die. Rose, I have been waiting a lifetime to tell you this but friends, family, marriage, the war so many things prevented me from being able to do so. All those days and nights you spent with me in the hospital, I just wanted to tell you about my stupid dream of us in bed watching an old movie on late night television with our twin, four year old girls, Veronica and Kate. There we would all be under covers watching "Roman Holiday" and eating blueberry pie. You would end up brushing and braiding the girl's hair while I attempted to paint their toe nails. The mental image of you three on that bed with your beautiful, long, blond hair, angel eyes and blueberry stained lips filled me like a warm bright light as I laid there not knowing if I was ever going to see again.

ROSE:

It's not a stupid dream. It's beautiful.

MARK:

Rose, I fell in love with you when we were kids the day I got hurt riding my bike and you helped me to my house. You probably don't remember but you gave me a kiss on the lips before walking me home. Rose, I have never come down from the cloud that kiss put me on fifteen years and six days ago. Not that I'm keeping track. I need to ask you something and it's very important to me. I love Anya with all my heart and I need you to be part of this with us. I can't lose you. This is a hard time for everyone and I know I am to blame. I am no angel but for some crazy reason, God keeps me surrounded by them, as if coming to take me away.

Mark moves her hair out of her face and gives her a kiss on the lips.

Now we're even. Looking at you, I can guarantee that God is a man.

ROSE:

I remember that day as if were yesterday. By the way, it has been fifteen years and seven days. Not that I am keeping track.

Anya just watches while drinking her wine.

ANYA:

Honey do you want to go freshen up?

Rose wipes her eyes while Mark sits back down.

ROSE:

No, I'm fine. I'm sorry Anya for the drama.

ANYA:

Baby girl, you have nothing to be sorry about.

Jonathan sets down his wine glass, trying to lighten the mood.

JONATHAN:

So, where are you girls going to stay at?

Rose wipes her eyes one last time.

ROSE:

We will be staying at the RIO. I got us a good deal on a room for the weekend.

Mark finishes his wine in one gulp and puts down the glass.

MARK:

Ladies, I love the fact that you are going on this girls only weekend. Being with friends is what it's all about and Anya, you don't need my permission to go somewhere with your best friend. The only thing is that there is no way in hell I will have you stay in an economy room at the fucking RIO.

Pulls out his wallet and hands Anya his Black American Express. Darlin, take this. The two of you are staying in a suite at CAESARS PALACE.

ANYA:

We can't. They are totally booked up.

Mark pulls out his cell phone and hits a speed dial number as the other three watch with great interest.

MARK:

Johny Boy, please. Tell him it's Dante from the OC........Sure, I'll wait.

Pours himself more wine.

It's me. How the hell are you, my friend?......Yeh, it's favor time...........No, actually I will not be coming out. Mi comare, Anya, and a very special friend, Rose Alison, will be there around 1pm tomorrow.

Looking at Anya

Babe, when are you coming back?

ANYA:

Let's say Sunday at 10am.

MARK:

They will check out Sunday at 10am. Yes the Absolut Suite....No....No........Yes, exactly. I will need that as well as a dedicated car and driver. Please have fifty large for her when she arrives. If Anya needs more, you know what to do.............She's fine, just out visiting her sister in Florida..........OK, I'll tell her when I see her. John, these two mean everything to me. Let them live large. Can you assign Dana to them?.......Perfect.......Ciao!

Anya sets down her wine glass.

ANYA:

What the hell was that? It was like I was watching a bad gangster movie.

MARK:

Don't worry doll face. Johny Boy will take care of you.........No really, he's a dear friend and when you get to CAESARS, go straight to the VIP Room and ask for him. Give him the card and he will give you some cash.

ANYA:

$500.00?

Mark laughs

MARK:

No not five hundred. Don't worry about it. Everything is covered and you will have an incredible time.

ANYA:

So Rose and I will be in the Absolut Suite? What's that?

MARK:

Let's just say it will be worth the drive. Check it out online if you want to. Just do me one favor, please.

ANYA:

What, stay away from good looking, rich, horny guys?

MARK:

No, I don't care about that.

Leans over and kisses her lips.

Don't ask any questions. Just see Johny Boy. He will introduce you to Dana who is simply the most beautiful redhead on earth! Dana is your girl. If you want it. She'll get it and I'll never know about it. I don't ask questions. You don't ask questions. Do you girls want to play with the big boys?

Simultaneously

ROSE & ANYA:

YES!

ROSE:

Will there be room for Dani and a few others?

MARK:

Yes and then some. Don't worry abot it. Done deal, you two are set. Now ladies and gentleman, please excuse me. I need to go to the restroom.

Gets up and disappears in the crowd of people.

Jonathan waves over the waitress.

JONATHAN:

Lorraine. Can you get me another Guinness? Do either of you want anything?

Anya sips her wine.

ANYA:

No, I'm fine.

ROSE:

Me too.

She smiles at Jonathan, ignores both girls and walks to the bar.

Jonathan, I can not believe you called her over. I had such hopes for you.

JONATHAN:

Rose, for what it's worth, you are much prettier than Lorraine.

ROSE:

Now it's Lorraine? Great.

JONATHAN:

Actually, you are perfectly imperfect, can you understand that?

ROSE:

Oh my god Anya, Jonathan even talks like Mark! God help us all.

Rose finishes the rest of her wine and pours herself some more.

Anya notices a girl selling flowers from a wicker basket walking through the bar and waves for her to come over.

ANYA:

I am going to buy Mark a flower.

Rose looks a little confused

ROSE:

Why a flower?

ANYA:

What else can I get him? He has everything and evidently a lot more then I realized.

Jonathan laughs.

JONATHAN:

Anya, you don't know the half of it. You are a very lucky lady.

At the same time, FBI Woman gives Jonathan his beer and the flower girl comes to the table.

ANYA:

Hi, what do you have.

FLOWER GIRL:

Just Roses hun.

She Hands Anya a long stem red rose but Anya notices a beautiful white rose.

ANYA:

Can I see your white rose, please?

Rose jumps up.

ROSE:

No.......I mean stay with the red. Much better for a man. Don't you agree Jonathan.

Gives Jonathan a desperate look.

JONATHAN:

Yes, I agree. Red would be best.

Anya holds and smells the white rose.

ANYA:

I disagree. I'll take the white. How much?

FLOWER GIRL:

Ten dollars

ROSE:

Anya, trust me, DO NOT get the white rose.

ANYA:

What are you talking about?

Starts to give the money but Jonathan stands up and pays for the flower.

Thanks Jonathan. I appreciate it.

A few moments later Mark returns to his chair.

MARK:

OK what's new? Where were we?

ANYA:

I got you a surprise darling.

MARK:

Must be special. That's the first time you ever called me darling. So, what did you get me?

She takes the white rose from her lap and hands it to Mark.

ANYA:

It's not much babe but it means a lot to me to give you something beautiful.

She gives Mark a hug and whispers in his ear.

Promise me when you see a white rose, you'll think of me.

MARK:

It's been a long time since I held a white rose.

Mark looks at Rose who is holding back tears.

ANYA:

I hope you didn't give it to a pretty girl.

Mark looks at Rose again.

MARK:

No babe, I was just walking through a flower shop back in the day.

Takes Anya by the shoulders.

Thank you for the beautiful gift. It means a lot to me too, more then you will ever know. I promise that for the rest of my life every time I see a white rose, I'll indeed think of you.

They kiss very passionately as the flower falls to the ground unnoticed.

ANYA:

I love you.

Mark waves to FBI Woman to come over, she does.

MARK:

Check please.

WAITRESS:

OK I'll be right back.

One more smile at Jonathan and Jonathan looks at Rose.

JONATHAN:

Hey, I didn't call her over this time.

Mark pulls out his wallet.

MARK:

How did you girls get here? Who drove?

ANYA:

Actually, I drove Rose this time. Why?

MARK:

If you two are leaving for Vegas tomorrow, I want to spend some alone time with you.

Jonathan looks at Mark.

JONATHAN:

Oh that's so sweet.

Mark claps his hands once.

MARK:

OK here's what we will do. Jonathan, take my Viper and drive Rose home. Anya can drive me home. Is that OK with everyone.

Rose stands up and grabs her purse.

ROSE:

Works for me. We do have to get up early and since Jonathan is a homosexual, I don't have to worry about crazy erotic sex.

Smiles at Jonathan, grabs his hand and they start for the door.

MARK:

Jonathan, my keys!

Mark throws him the key to his car.

ANYA:

Let's get out of here.

As they walk out, Mark pays the bill.

WAITRESS:

Thank you very much. By the way, you two are a beautiful couple.

MARK:

Thanks Ms. Carey and by the way, you are beautiful too..

WAITRESS:

She smiles and walks away

ANYA:

That was nice of her.

Mark catches a glance of the two of them in the mirror behind the bar.

MARK:

I must agree with Joey.

He takes Anya by the hand and they walk to the street.

Listen.

ANYA:

Listen to what?

MARK:

The song that's playing. It's our favorite song!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_A_GiZ4NWQ&feature=fvst

ANYA:

It is?

MARK:

It is now. May I have this dance?

They hold each other and dance right there on the sidewalk as passers-by give them all the space they need.

ANYA:

I really do love you, Mark.

Afterwards, they get in Anya's car.

Where do you want to go?

MARK:

Actually, take me home. There's a thousand things I want to do with you but I don't need you tired on your four hour drive to Vegas.

ANYA:

OK, have it your way. It is a beautiful night to just drive.

MARK:

We will have many more beautiful nights.

Anya mumbles

ANYA:

Will we?

MARK:

I'm sorry, what did you say?

ANYA:

I said, will we? Will we have more beautiful nights?

Mark puts his hand on her leg and says nothing because nothing is both the most and least he can answer with. After about three minutes of driving.

MARK:

I love you too.

Neither say a word until they get to Mark's house.

Turning her car off in the driveway.

ANYA:

Well, this is a first. I get to walk my date to the door. Hope I get a kiss? Are your parents home?

MARK:

You're a funny funny girl.

They walk to his front door.

ANYA:

Now what? Are you going to invite me in?

MARK:

Anya, I love you but we need to do this the right way. When I spent the night with you, that was the best and worst night of my life. Can you understand that?

ANYA:

Actually Mark, I think I can.

MARK:

I wanted to make love to you so bad but I knew if we did that it would make what we have, what we are building on, less credible.

ANYA:

Mark, you make me want to scream! Not because I am mad but because you are right. Can you do me a favor and please be wrong for once?

MARK:

I don't think I'm wrong on this one.

ANYA:

OK, fine. Let me get out of here and I'll call you when we are finally on the road tomorrow.

They hug and Anya gives Mark a simple kiss on the cheek before walking to her car.

Good night babe.

Mark walks in his house.

MARK:

What the fuck is going on?

Walks to the kitchen and gets a bottle of Guinness.

Annie, where the fuck are you? Why the fuck are you playing these games?

Mark picks up a handful of returned letters from Annie off the counter and throws them across the room, dropping his Guinness on the floor.

Fuck! Fuck! Fuck!

As Mark starts to clean up the spilt beer, the front door opens, Anya walks in and closes it behind her. Mark is standing there with a beer bottle in one hand and a small towel in the other.

MARK:

Anya, Is everything OK?

ANYA:

I need to get up early tomorrow.

Without taking her eyes off of Mark, she peels off her shirt

Tell me that you want me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRIbuIeTew4

SCENE 11

INT. BEDROOM - MORNING

Just before sunrise, Anya wakes up in bed facing Mark who is still sleeping. For the longest time, she stares at him occasionally running her fingers through his hair and down over his lips.

ANYA:

I love you babe. Please wake up and tell me to stay.

http://www.millaj.com/sounds/Breathing%20In%20Your%20Sleep.mp3

As sunlight fills the room, Anya knows it's time to go. After gathering her things, Anya places a note on her pillow and gives Mark a final kiss before leaving.

Mark's cell phone starts to ring which wakes him up. He turns over to find that he his alone in the bed but there is a note on the pillow. He grabs the note in one hand and the phone in the other. Just before answering the phone, he glances at the alarm clock on the night stand and it's 11:05am.

MARK:

Damn it!

Answers the phone. Speak!

JONATHAN:

It's Jonathan. Have you heard yet?

MARK:

Heard what? Jon, I really really am not in the mood for games.

JONATHAN:

Well first of all, I dropped off your car early this morning. The keys are on your kitchen table. You really need to start locking your front door. You have no idea who could come walking in.

MARK:

Tell me about it.

JONATHAN:

Secondly, you did not hear this from me. Your orders came in less than 30 minutes ago.

MARK:

So what? I depart in about three weeks. I already know that genius.

JONATHAN:

Captain, this is your First Sergeant speaking now. Sir, you leave today! There is a meeting going on right now with some guys from the CIA, Colonel Crites and General Davis. What the fuck is the CIA doing here?

Just then, Mark's house phone starts to ring.

MARK:

Fuck Jonathan, hold on.

Puts the phone on his pillow and leans over to grab the phone.

MARK:

Speak!

CAMPBELL:

Captain Austin?

MARK:

Yes, who is this?

CAMPBELL:

First Lieutenant Brian Campbell, Battalion S-1.

MARK:

What can I do for you Lieutenant Campbell?

CAMPBELL:

Sir, you have activation orders and a classified briefing to attend at 1300 today. Sir, your DEA Chain of Command has been notified. Someone from there will also be present at the briefing. You are to report to the Post Commander's briefing room in BDU's with full TA-50. Your personal deployment plan is in effect. While you are deployed, I will be your wife's point of contact for any and all issues. Captain Austin, do you have any questions?

MARK:

My wife is in Florida........FUCK!

CAMPBELL:

Sir?

MARK:

Just thinking out loud L.T.

CAMPBELL:

Sir, please relay my name and number to your wife. She can reach me any hour on my cell at 282-7250.

MARK:

I will...........Hold on a second.

Picks up cell phone

Jonathan are you still there?

JONATHAN:

Yeah and I heard you talking to Campbell. He's a good man. Mark, I wish I was going with you.

MARK:

Be careful what you ask for.........I guess I'll see you in about an hour. Mark Out!

Hangs up the cell phone and picks up the house phone.

L.T. are you still there?

CAMPBELL:

Yes sir.

Just then the cell phone rings again.

MARK:

Do you have anything else for me? My other phone is ringing?

CAMPBELL:

No Sir.

MARK:

OK, I'll be on time. Thanks Lieutenant.

Hangs up the phone and answers the cell.

Hello.

VERONICA:

Agent Austin?

MARK:

Yes.

VERONICA:

It's me, Veronica.. Mark, the Chief needs to talk to you. Hold on please.

DONOVAN:

Mark, Things have changed dramatically. Has your unit contacted you?

MARK:

Yes Sir, I just got off the phone with them. Are you going to the briefing at 1pm?

DONOVAN:

Yes. Obviously son you know we can't talk shop but I've been around a few days and I know how stressful this can be on you and Annie. You know we're going to be here for her. Thank God this is a short mission.

MARK:

I appreciate it boss. I'll see you at 1pm.

DONOVAN:

Take care Mark. I am proud of you.

Mark hangs up and puts the phone on the end table and starts to read Anya's note while walking anxiously around the bedroom:

Dear Mark,

I sat on the edge of the bed and just watched as you slept for the longest time. You know, you look so cute while you sleep. I even gave you a kiss hoping you would wake and tell me not to go but you didn't. You just mumbled something and rolled over. As much as I want to get back into bed with you, I have to go. A promise is a promise and I don't want to let Rose down. So, know that it took all my will power to leave you laying here on your own but when I return babe, you and I will spend a whole day together in bed. That is my promise to you and you know I always keep my promises. So, there is a thought for you to look forward to. Bet you're smiling right about now. I know I am at the thought.

OK babe, I have to go now and if I don't go now, I wont go at all. Thanks for everything you did about Vegas. You are a wonderful man, you know that. Will be thinking of you the whole time and wishing you were with us....

Miss you already babe.xxxx

Mark puts the note on the bed and picks up his cell phone to call Anya but there is no answer.

MARK:

Anya please pick up......FUCK!

He next tries Rose's cell phone but no answer again

Rose answer the phone please. Damnit!

Mark is very agitated at this point and goes over to sit on the couch. He next calls Annie's cell phone only to find it has been disconnected.

Well that's just perfect.

Next Mark calls Tina's house.

MARK:

Tina it's Mark. Is Annie there? It's an emergency.

TINA:

No Mark, she left me several weeks ago after a fight we had and I haven't seen her since. What's the Emergency?

MARK:

I got called up and I leave for Iraq today!

TINA:

You have got to be kidding. Please Mark, tell me you're joking.

MARK:

Unfortunately, I am not but the good news is that I will be back real soon.

MARK:

What do you mean?

MARK:

I am part of a team that needs to help out with some special equipment. Once we are done, I get to come back home. So actually it's less dramatic then it sounds. Nevertheless, Annie needs to know.

TINA:

Well, if you say so. Mark, I don't mean to get involved but I really don't want you two to break up. My sister is a very beautiful and intelligent bitch. We both know that. Please don't give up on her. In her defense, I know she does love you. You're an enigma to her in many ways. As close as you two are, she can't figure you out at times which drives such a pragmatic girl like Annie crazy. If love means wanting someone in your life forever, then I love both of you with all my heart.

MARK:

Tina, thank you and I love you for saying that. If you see Annie, will you please let her know?

TINA:

Absolutely, be safe Mark. If you get hurt again, I'll kill you.

MARK:

I love you too, bye.

TINA:

Bye

Mark tries Anya's phone again with no luck.

MARK:

Fuck, this is like a bad dream.

Just then his phone rings.

MARK:

Speak!

Hey, it's Jonathan again. Sorry to bother you. Do you need me to come over to give you a hand with anything?

MARK:

No buddy, I'm good.

JONATHAN:

Is everything alright?

MARK:

No, everything is not alright!

The memory of saying that to his dad at his mother's funeral and running into Rose's arms seemed to flash in front of his eyes.

Hey Jonathan, I didn't mean to raise my voice. I can't get anyone on the phone and it's driving me fucking nuts, not Annie, not Rose, not Anya. Jon, I am freaking out and I don't know why?

Walks around the living room and suddenly takes a seat on his chair facing the windows because he can't catch his breath.

Give me moment.

Takes four deep breaths.

JONATHAN:

Mark, what the hell is going on?

MARK:

I'm OK. Just a bit of high anxiety. Less than 24 hours from now I'll be in Iraq and here I sit naked on my couch mad as hell that I wasn't able to give Anya a hug goodbye.

JONATHAN:

Well that's a visual I could have done without.

MARK:

Thanks for the call my friend. I'll see you shortly.

Hangs up the phone but stays on the chair, flash backs of the war suddenly filling his brain.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yIFy2B3s5UE&feature=related

After a few minutes, Mark walks back into the bedroom, picks up the note off the bed, folds it and puts it in his wallet which he found still in his pants pocket next to the bed. Feeling a lot better, he walks over and takes hold of the pull-up bar that stretches across the upper part of the doorway and does a very slow set of twenty. Each repetition stressing and burning every muscle in his hands, through his arms, shoulders, neck and chest as he pulls himself up and slowly descends until his arms are fully extended. By the twelfth repetition, sweat is in his eyes but he doesn't even blink. By rep sixteen with teeth clenched, he growls his way through another raising of his body. As he drops to his feet after number twenty, Mark glances at his wedding picture hanging over the fireplace and like a shot gun blast, punches a hole in the wall and walks towards the bathroom.

MARK:

All right Captain, it's show time.

SCENE 12

EXT. DRIVING THROUGH CALIFORNIA DESERT TOWARDS VEGAS - AFTERNOON - ESTABLISHING

V.O. NARRATIVE:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0G-peyzP_M&feature=related

With the top down and the music blaring, Rose and Anya race across the California desert north in Interstate 15, now about two hours out of Las Vegas. Unfortunately, there was no way on earth that either of them were able to hear their phone ringing. Just as the Corvette topped 110 mph, Rose noticed the flashing of Police lights behind her.

ROSE:

Oh FUCK!

ANYA:

What Rose?

ROSE:

The Police are behind me.

ANYA:

Well feel free to slow down at any time. Pull over Rose.

Rose does pull over and starts to get out of the car.

POLICE:

Stay in the car Ma'am!

Rose gets back in as the Highway Patrolman approaches the car.

POLICE:

License and Insurance please.

ROSE:

I am so sorry. I didn't realize.

POLICE:

Ma'am you were going 110. You realize I could confiscate this car right now.......License and Insurance please.

As Rose searches through her purse, the Officer notices the baseball cap that Anya is wearing which reads "DEA"

POLICE:

Where did you get that hat Ma'am?

ANYA:

It's my boyfriend's.

POLICE:

Is he an agent?

ANYA:

Yes, out of the Laguna Niguel office.

POLICE:

What's his name?

ANYA:

Mark Dante Austin.

Rose hands the Officer her license and proof of insurance.

ROSE:

Here you go Officer and again I am so so sorry.

He looks at the documents and hands them back.

POLICE:

Stay right here. I'll be right back.

He returns to his vehicle to talk on the radio. After a a few minutes, he returns to the car.

Ladies, you can go. Give Agent Austin my best and please, watch your speed. You two are not allowed to get hurt. Can you do that for me?

Rose looks shocked.

ROSE:

Is that it? You mean we can go?

POLICE:

Yes, unless you would like for me to arrest you for reckless driving? I couldn't if I wanted to.

ANYA:

Don't mind her Officer. She's an idiot. I promise, we will not speed and Officer.....thank you.

POLICE:

Be safe ladies.

He returns to his vehicle and takes off. Just before the girls get back on the road, an unmarked black helicopter does a low speed low altitude flyover of their vehicle then disappears to the east.

ROSE:

Anya, that was absolutely amazing. I was scared to death and what was up with that helicopter?

ANYA:

I have no idea? That was odd to say the least. What did he mean when he said, "You two are not allowed to get hurt" and something about not being able to arrest us if he wanted to? Rose, I stole this hat from Mark's kitchen table this morning before I left. Thank god I did. Is he an incredible man or what? I have to call him.

ROSE:

What do you mean, kitchen table this morning?

ANYA:

Rose, just drive the damn car and try not speed.

She calls Mark's cell phone.

SCENE 13

INT. HOTEL ROOM - MORNING

Annie is in a hotel room packing her suitcase. After she finishes, she calls Tina's house to apologize for what had happened but all she got was the answering machine.

ANNIE:

Tina it's Annie. Honey I am so sorry for what happened. Please forgive me. I hurt so bad right now that I could die. I can't lose both you and Marky. I don't want to lose anyone. I just want my life back with the man who flew to Australia, Came to the house; Walked right past dad; Threw his arms around me; Kissed me and married me. I love Mark. I really do but I hate what he does. I hate him being a cop. I hate the Army and this fucking war. I hate that he is always trying to keep me from bad news. He is always trying too hard to protect me. From what? Tina, from what? I am an adult woman. I want to work with, help with, cry with my husband but he will not let me. Oh my god Tina, if I ever got hurt, he'd shoot someone. I don't understand. I got a rental car and I am driving home. I need to be with Mark and work things out before it's too late and he ends up with Rose. At this stage, I wouldn't be surprised. Why does Rose have to be so damn beautiful? I didn't want to fly because I still need more time to think things through. These next few days will be good for me. I don't have a cell phone right now so there will be no way for you to contact me. I will call you as soon as I get home. Pray for me sis. I have a horrible feeling that I fucked things up by leaving the way I did. I love you. Bye.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iH4nPiHRIG0

She hangs up the phone, grabs her suitcase and walks to her car.

SCENE 14

INT. MILITARY OFFICE - AFTERNOON - ESTABLISHING

It's 12:30pm and Mark is in his Battle Dress Uniform at his unit meeting with Jonathan and his Company Executive Officer, First Lieutenant Bill Gains.

MARK:

Alright Lieutenant, next week's drill is in your hands. You'll do just fine. I'll be back in a week, two weeks at the most. Two more things before I go: Sergeant Yow's eleven year old daughter, Amanda, is in Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach. She is being tested for cancer. I want the whole fucking Company to go see her with presents.

Hands an envelope with one thousand dollars in it to Lientenant Gains

Here's some money. Make that little girl smile. Fuck this up LT and you're done. Next, put my personal items in the safe.

Hands him his cell phone and some documents.

First Sergeant, walk with me over to the Command Group. I have a briefing at 1300. Any questions Lieutenant Gainsr?

GAINS:

No Sir. Be safe and I am proud to have you as my Commander.

Stands and salutes Captain Austin who returns the salute.

MARK:

Let's go Top.

They depart the building and walk across the Parade Field to the Command Group building.

MARK:

Jonathan take these. This is my car key which you are familiar with and this is my house key. If you want, you can stay there until I get back.

JONATHAN:

Any idea when Annie may be back?

MARK:

Not a fucking clue.

Mark stops walking right in the middle of the Parade Field and looks Jonathan right in the eye as several Army helicopters pass over head http://new.wavlist.com/soundfx/033/heli-pass3.wav.

I'm going to ask Anya to marry me when I get back. Jon, you're close to both Annie and me which is a great thing. Never stop being her friend. Before the dust settles, I have a feeling that you are going to play a crucial in helping her to get through all this. Annie is a dream that came true for me. My only regreat is that I am not the man of her dreams. I'm more of a nightmare to her and that hurts. The great irony is that I have dedicated my entire life to protecting her and making sure every step she takes is safe and secure.

JONATHAN:

Protecting her from what? Mark are you sure? Are you absofuckinglutly sure Anya is worth it?

MARK:

Jon,Anya is my best expression of love and for the rest of my life, I want to make her needs my needs. I have never been so sure of anything, ever! I've seen men take their last breath on this planet and I have seen babies take their first. I know exactly where and with who I want to be with for the rest of my life. Let's go. Fuck Jon, I got so worked up that I didn't have a chance to say goodbye to Anya before she and Rose took off for Vegas that I had an anxiety attack, a fucking anxiety attack! If you want to transfer to another unit, I'll understand.

Jonathan goes to the position of attention and slowly raises his hand in a salute and Mark returns the salute.

JONATHAN:

Captain Austin, I am your First Sergeant today and I am your First Sergeant when you get back. You have a briefing to get to Sir.

MARK:

Thanks Jonathan, I needed to hear that.

Back in the office, 1LT Gains closes the top drawer of the five drawer safe just as Mark's cell phone begins to ring.

SCENE 15

EXT. DRIVING LAS VEGAS STRIP - AFTERNOON - ESTABLISHING

V.O. NARRATIVE:

As Rose and Anya cruise down the Las Vegas Strip in bumper to bumper traffic, they are easily overwhelmed by the shear magnitude of the sights and sounds surrounding them, the hotels, the casinos, the clubs the masses of people. Just as they pull into the front of Caesars Palace looking for valet parking, three very large armed security guards approach the car and stop them.

GUARD #1:

Excuse me, Rose and Anya I presume.

Rose once again looking shocked

ROSE:

How do you know our names?

GUARD #1

Please pull forward into that roped off section of VIP parking and follow us. We will take you to see Mr. Donneli or Johny Boy to his very special friends.

ANYA:

Just do as he says Rose. Go park.

After they park, two of the security guards take hold of their luggage while Anya tries unsuccessfully to get Mark on his cell phone

ANYA:

Damn Rose, he's still not answering his phone. I told him that I'd call once we got here......Hold on. I'm going to leave a message.......Mark, we just got here and everything is fine. Rose got pulled over for speeding and without even being with us, you solved yet another problem like a deus ex machina. I love you babe. Remember what I promised you. I can't wait. Bye.

She hangs up the phone and puts it in her purse.

ROSE:

A deus ex machina? Anya, you get weirder the longer you're around Mark.

The head security guard motions to them to follow

GUARD #1:

Ladies, come with us.

As they are escorted through the crowded hotel by the armed guards, they capture the attention of simply everybody around them

ANYA:

Rose, do you get the feeling that we are being watched?

ROSE:

Yes and it's awesome! Anya do you ever get the feeling that there is more to Mark then either of us knows?

ANYA:

Only every moment I am awake.

The girls are led through the main lobby, past the VIP lounge to a private elevator that is roped off. Standing there are two very large men in blue suites and an extraordinarily beautiful woman talking on a cell phone which she promptly hands to one of the men as they walk up.

DANA:

Good afternoon ladies, my name is Dana.....Alright gentlemen, you may go.

Immediately, the three security guards depart the same way they came in and the other two exit through an unmarked side door.

You must be Anya? Mark described you perfectly.

ANYA:

What did he say?

Dana just smiles, shakes her hand and gives her a kiss on the cheek

DANA:

You then must be the beautiful Rose? Truely a pleasure, I've known about you as long as I have known Mark.

Rose is wanting badly to find out what Mark has said but she refrains as Dana shakes her hand and kisses her cheek. The door to the private elevator opens and all three get in. Mr. Donneli is waiting to meet you in his office.

Anya looks a little puzzled.

ANYA:

Excuse me Dana but who actually is Mr. Donneli? Do I call him Mr. Donneli, Johny Boy or what? Honestly, I am at a major disadvantage here. Don't get me wrong. This is all very exciting but I really want a few questions answered.

Dana smiles and puts her hand on Anya's shoulder as the doors open.

DANA:

Mr. Donneli will happily answer any questions you have.

They exit into the hallway.

ANYA:

No! Dana I don't want another of Mark's man friends telling me how great he is with all the candor of a street mime. Woman to woman, what the fuck is going on?

Rose just looks on half interested in the conversation and half fixated on what Mark has been saying about her.

DANA:

OK, woman to woman........Follow me ladies and smile. Just do as I say.

They walk down the hall and go into the ladies room.

We can talk here without being on a security camera. Please take a seat.

Rose and Anya take a seat on the white couch while Dana stays standing, pacing back and forth a few times without speaking.

What exactly do you want to know?

ANYA:

Everything! Absofuckinglutely Everything! I love Mark but what's up with all this attention. I don't need anyone else to tell me that he's great and special. I know that or I wouldn't be with him. He's a fucking cop. I have never in my life gone out with or ever wanted to be with a cop but here I am completely in love with not just a cop but a married cop! I have had relationships with two Corporate CEOs, two Movie Stars and a very famous Australian Country singer. None of them get treated as well as Mark does. What's up with that?

DANA:

Rose, you look like you want to ask me something too?

ROSE:

Sure, what did Mark say about me?

Totally avoiding the question

DANA:

Oh Rose, you are a doll..........Let me tell you a few things about Mark. Number one, he's not a cop. As a Federal Agent, not to mention the work he does as an Army Intelligence Officer, he has been involved with many very high level operations. The one that concerns you and all this special attention involves none other then the owner of this casino, Mr. G.C. Kochendorfer. Two years ago in the main lobby of this casino a Russian drug trafficker, Alexi Yanin, took Mr. Kochendorfer's wife and seventeen year old daughter hostage at gunpoint. Earlier that day, Mark's team of DEA agents took into custody all six of Yanin's partners and recovered more the three hundred million dollars worth of stolen diamonds from the Kochendorfer's estate. Yanin knew that he couldn't go home with all of his men in jail and without the diamonds. He would have been killed by the Russian Maffia. Instead, he was on a suicide mission with the singular objective to kill the Kochendorfer family. The Kochendorfer's were receiving an award on television from the City of Las Vegas for leadership in the community or something to that effect. As the cameras began to roll, Yanin started shooting, killing a casino security guard and two Las Vegas Police Officers. Mr. Kochendorfer was immediately pulled to safety by his security detail, whom you just met at the elevator. Because of where everyone was standing, Mrs. Kochendorfer and her daughter, Laeticia, were face to face with Yanin with about twenty feet between them. You have to realize that all hell had broken out. People screaming and running, others taking cover while three men bleed to death in full view of the cameras which kept rolling the entire time. Yanin was screaming in Russian while holding his gun on the girls. In all the madness, Mark emerges from the crowd walking slowly towards Yanin with his arms in the air speaking in Russian. Well this totally captivates Yanin's attention allowing every bystander to escape to safety except the Kochendorfer's and the crazy camera crew who just kept on filming, talk about professionals. Anyhow, Yanin is screaming at Mark in Russian while Mark just kept eye contact and responded back in Russian very softly and very slowly. Before you knew it, Mark put himself in between Yanin and the girls. Yanin was screaming! This time, Mark just stood there like a human shield not saying a word until in English, he screams,"MR. KOCHENDORFER GET BACK"! Well this instinctively causes Yanin to turn his head at which point, Mark lunges forward and pulls Yanin to the ground. In the struggle, there were two shots and both men laid there motionless on the floor, Mark on top of Yanin. It was the strangest thing in the world, total silence. There were no police anywhere what seemed to be forever. Finally, the S.W.A.T. Team in full black combat gear rushed in with no less then twenty machine guns pointing at the two bodies. The whole time, I was hiding behind the counter but I could see everything. As the Police moved in, they were now screaming orders at Mark and Yanin but neither answered or moved. I just laid on the floor watching and crying as they separated the bodies. Mark's limp body was bleeding from his chest and Alexi Yanin had a very visible single gunshot wound to the head. He was dead. Mark obviously recovered but he spent over a month in the hospital and I was with him every single day until he was released. That is where I met Annie and for you Rose, from his hospital bed, Mark talked to me more about you then he did anything else including his wife. I have never known a man so seemingly in love with a woman. I was completely jealous of you, not of his wife but of you! I asked him why you two never married. He was sure that you loved him but he was equally sure that because you two pretty much grew up together that you could never be IN love with him like that. That's the story......Oh yeh, I almost forgot. Without getting into detail, Mr. Kochendorfer holds Mark in the highest esteem and Mark will never hurt financially. With what Mark now has at his disposal, none of us can figure out why he puts himself through what he does with the DEA and the Army. If anyone could retire young and rich, it's Mark. You did not hear that from me! The stuff with Yanin is public Record. The money stuff stays here. I could easily lose my job over this. Now Mr.Donneli is the President of the casino. He works directly for Mr. Kochendorfer. You two may call him Johny Boy or Mr. Donneli. Around the casino, only use Johny Boy. That is a code, if you will, to the entire staff to act accordingly.

Anya stands up with a look of confused astonishment on her face.

ANYA:

Don't worry Dana. It will stay here.

She gives Dana a hug.

Thank you Dana. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I had no idea. He never told me and I feel so damn foolish.

DANA:

Don't. It's a pain he doesn't want to re-live. Let it be. Just let it be. What I know of Mark is that he is consumed with wanting to help people close to him. He is the most gentle man I know but I would never want to be on his bad side. Rose, are you OK? You look like you are about to cry.

Rose forces a smile.

ROSE:

No, I'm OK. He just never seems to amaze me.

DANA:

I hope I wasn't out of line telling you about how he feels about you?

Another forced smile.

ROSE:

No no, we've talked about it many times. He's just a good friend.

DANA:

Alright then, why don't we all freshen up and go see Mr. Donneli?

They do just that and a few minutes later, Dana opens the door to his office.

Mr. Donneli, your guests are here to see you.

Walking over to greet them.

MR. DONNELI:

Come in, welcome.

Shakes their hands. Please take a seat. Mark has asked me to roll out the red carpet for you two and so I will. The best part of that carpet is Dana. Until you leave, she is at your personal disposal. Has Mark told you about Dana?

ANYA:

Only that she is the most beautiful redhead on earth which is an understatement.

Anya smiles at Dana.

MR. DONNELI:

Well, let's get down to business. My name is Alonzo Donneli. You can call me Alonzo, AL, Johny Boy or Mr. Donneli. You can call me anything you want. I'm sure Dana will go over that more later.

Opens his desk drawer, pulls out and places five stacks of money in front of Anya.

ANYA:

What is this?

This is yours from Mark. It's fifty thousand dollars. If you need more, just let Dana know.

Without hesitation Anya divides one stack in half, handing one half to Rose and putting the other half in her purse

ANYA:

Can you have the rest brought to my room?

MR. DONNELI:

Yes absolutely. Is there anything else I can do for you?

ANYA:

No everything is great. I'm sure Dana will take good care of us.

MR. DONNELI:

That she will. Give Mark my best.

Anya, Rose and Mr. Donneli stand up and shake hands.

Ladies, again welcome and enjoy your stay in the Absolut Suite.

Dana and the girls exit and take the elevator back down stairs where they are met by the same three armed guards who escort when they arreived Now these same guards escort Anya, Rse and Dana across the casino to the Absolut Suite. As earlier, the walk through the casino with the guards turned every head in viewing distance much to the delight of both Anya and Rose.

DANA:

Well girls, here we are. Let's go in.

Dana opens the door and once again dismisses the guards.

DANA:

I hope you like the room ladies?.

Anya and Rose take a minute in silence to look and walk around.

ANYA:

Rose this is the most incredible room I have ever been in.

Under her breath

ROSE:

No that would be the one you were in last night.

ANYA:

What was that? I didn't hear you.

ROSE:

I said, you are correct. This place is crazy.

Both walk out onto the private dance floor.

DANA:

Girls, let me tell you what we have here. You have a 1,380 square foot bi-level suite which is divided into six very special areas: the Mandrine Room, the Raspberri Room, the Vanilla Room, the Ruby Red Room, the Citron Room and my favorite the Apeach Room. This is the ultimate Las Vegas Party Room with its 20-foot-ceilings, a reflective black dance floor which we're standing on, a full media center and panoramic view of “the strip”. Who is going to get the ivory sleigh bed?

Anya twirls three times on the dance floor.

ANYA:

I don't plan on sleeping while here.

DANA:

Well girls, I'll let you get settled in. When you need me, just call. Here is my card.

Hands one to each of them.

I do want to take you on a tour of the casino when you're ready.

ANYA:

Rose and I will call you after the money arrives. Is there a safe in here?

DANA:

Yes it's in the closet over there.

After Dana shows them how to use the safe, she leaves.

ANYA:

Rose this has been one hell of a day. I feel like I'm on a cloud.

ROSE:

I agree. Mark has really done it this time. I don't even want to talk about the money. I still can't believe that.

ANYA:

Well little girl, start believing. I hope Mark is having as much fun as we are?

She takes her cell phone out of her purse and again tries unsuccessfully to reach Mark on his cell which goes unheard ringing locked in his Company's safe.

SCENE 16

EXT. DRIVING ON HIGHWAY - MORNING

V.O. NARRATION:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qrro8vHSgG4

Annie has been driving for about an hour listening to music. So lost in thought, she doesn't notice the bee that has been buzzing around the car the entire time. As she reminisces about the good and bad times spent with Mark over the past few years, tears turn to smiles and back to tears.

She recalls the first time they actually met. It was at her house in Newcastle, Australia about three years ago. Mark visiting wasn't a surprise. Showing up two hours early was! Annie had been cleaning up around the house getting no help from her dad who was not thrilled at all about another Yank falling in love with one of his daughters. Her sister, Tina, married an American doctor a year earlier and moved to the States. Her dad just kept asking,"Why a bloody Yank? What's wrong with Ian or Trevor"? Annie never argued with her dad. She would just give him a big hug and tell him that he was the best man in Australia and all the other boys could never compare. She was sure her dad would keep repeating himself just so he could hear her say that over and over again.

When the knock on the door came, she opened it expecting it to be one of the neighbor kids but there he was. For a few moments, neither said a single word. They just stood and looked at one another until her dad came over, pulled the door open and blurted out,"Who the hell are you"? As if he didn't even see or hear him, Mark stepped forward and he and Annie fell into each others arms. Annie remembers hearing two things being said, "God, you look so beautiful Annie" and from her dad,"Bloody Hell, here we go again".

She remembers the first time Mark walked her through Inspiration Point, the park across the street from their house in Corona Del Mar. The park is on the edge of a sixty foot cliff overlooking the beach and Newport Harbor just to the north. Mark had talked about it so many times before she ever saw it that she felt she had been there several times on her first visit. She remembers laughing as they walked down the path to the rest area half way down the cliff which consists of six benches overlooking the ocean. They sat there looking out at the boats for a few moments before Mark took her hand and they walked down the rest of the path to the beach. She remembers counting with Mark the sixty three steps it takes to get form the benches to the sand. There are two large rock formations just at the waters edge. She remembers standing by the larger of the two rock formations and Mark asking her to turn around and describe what she saw. So, she did and mentioned the two scuba divers preparing to enter the water, the four sail boats anchored just off shore, the rock jetty leading into Newport Harbor, the ten houses on top of the cliff, wet sand footprints of a toddler and lifeguard tower number 5. Right then he took her hand and they walked over and climbed onto the vacant lifeguard tower where he dropped to one knee, pulled out a small box from his pocket, opened it up revealing a beautiful diamond ring and asked her to marry him just before he dropped the ring into the sand.

She remembers getting the call at 3am Christmas morning that Mark's helicopter was missing in action in Southern Iraq and the horrifying 72 hours it took to find out he was alive but in the hospital with blindness from the flash of an explosion. She can never forget the seven weeks he spent in the Hospital with his eyes completely bandaged, not knowing if he would ever see again and how insanely ironic it was that exactly one year after being released from the hospital he gets shot in Las Vegas trying to be some kind of hero for the DEA. Annie recalls when she first walked in the hospital room to see Mark with his eyes bandaged. He sat up smiling and asked if it was Rose? Just then, Annie feels a sharp pain on her right forearm and looks down to see the bee that had just stung her.

SCENE 17

EXT. WALKING ACROSS MILITARY BASE - AFTERNOON

As Captain Austin and First Sergeant Kane cross the parade field, they see three Military Police vehicles stop directly in front of them. Col. Crites and Special Agent In Charge Donovan exit the lead vehicle and walk towards them, salutes are exchanged.

COL. CRITES:

Captain Austin there is no time to waste. Where is your gear?

MARK:

In my office. What's up?

COL. CRITES:

First Sargeant take the rear vehicle; Get his gear and meet us on the flight line. The driver will take you right to the C-5. Move out! Mark you're doing a hot load and ten minutes from now you will be airborne. Let's get in the vehicle.

The three get in the lead vehicle and are driven to the flight line which is buzzing with multiple helicopter takeoffs and landings, along with the deafening roar of the massive C-5 GALAXY engines.

MARK:

Glad you two could come to see me off boss.

SAIC DONOVAN:

Well, to tell you the truth, I am not all to thrilled you're going on such short notice but that's the life we live and I'm very proud of you Mark.

Col. Crites interrupts

COL. CRITES:

Mark, SOCOM Intel reported that the subjects will be on target 29 hours from now. The sick irony is that you are going back near Karbala.

MARK:

Now that is going to make Annie really excited to know I'm going back to the place I got shot down in but the good news is that she's back East at her sister's and I'll be home before she is.

COL. CRITES:

Good attitude son....Your girl Mici is going to meet up with Shiite Cleric Moqtada al-Sadr to get safe passage from Karbala north to al Mussayyib for a major drug delivery. 2nd Battalion First Special Forces Group out of Fort Lewis, Washington is in place to make the interdiction. There will be no time for an ISOFAC briefing with 2nd Bat. You will receive an in-flight briefing. You will link up 2nd Bat along with a Joint CIA/Air Force team who will be flying a Predator Unmanned Aerial Vehicle equipped with some new DARPA developed optics that the Agency swears by.

MARK::

Are they already in country?

COL. CRITES:

No, you are flying with them. The whole flight team, UAV and equipment are on board waiting for you. Your Agent Hale is leading the team.

Crites looks at Donovan expecting Mark to get upset.

MARK:

Hale will be just fine.

Mark is looling out the window at all the activity on the flightline and notices no less then fourteen marked and unmarked vehicles posted around the C-5.

SAIC DONOVAN:

That's all you have to say about Hale? Last time you saw him, I thought you were going to hit him.

MARK:

Sometimes your enemy's enemy is your friend. I just want to get Mici out of the way and get the fuck out of that hell hole.

COL. CRITES:

Good attitude son.......Alright we're here.

They exit the car next to the lowered ramp in the front of the C-5 Galaxy. They can hardly hear each other talk.

COL. CRITES:

Here comes Kane with your gear.

SAIC Donovan shakes Mark's hand.

SAIC DONOVAN:

God's speed son.

First Sargeant Kane salutes Col. Crites and CPT. Austin as he turns the gear over to the C-5's Load Master.

JONATHAN:

Well boss, I guess that's everything. I did hear your cell phone ringing as I was leaving.

MARK:

Probably Anya. Do me a favor and turn it off for me.

JONATHAN:

Yes Sir.

He comes to the position of attention and gives CPT. Austin a final salute. CPT. Austin slowly raises his hand to return the salute.

MARK:

Anya and Rose will be back Sunday, mid-day. Let them know I'll be back in about a week or two, tops.

CIA Agent Hale walks down the ramp, stops in front of CPT. Austin and puts out his hand for a shake. Mark just looks at him right in the eyes without moving or saying a word. Everyone is watching to see what happens. Finally, Mark reaches out and shakes his hand.

MARK:

Hale, are you ready to kick some ass Bro?

AGENT HALE:

Damn straight. Let's do it.

V.O. NARRATIVE

Mark turns and salutes COL. Crites, gives a final look at everyone and all the activity going on. Without another word, puts his hand on Agent Hale's shoulder as they walk up the ramp which closes right behind them. Within minutes, the massive C-5 Galaxy disappears into the clouds.

SCENE 18

INT. INSIDE AIRCRAFT - CONTINUOUS ACTION

V.O. NARRATIVE:

Minutes after the aircraft lifted off and broke through the cloud cover, it made a wide left turn around Catalina Island before fixing on a due east flight plan. Looking out the window with the sun in his face, Mark remembered how much he loved it when Anya ran her fingers through his hair and over his shoulders as he laid his head on her stomach for the longest time last night in bed and how he laughed when she shook him and said,"You better not be falling asleep. I'm not done with you yet".

Taping Mark on the shoulder

AGENT HALE:

Austin, wake up. Come with me. I need to introduce you to a few people.

MARK:

Sure, let's go.

Mark gets up and follows Agent Hale to the back of the aircraft.

Agent Hale hands Mark a large envelope

AGENT HALE:

Because of the time sensitive nature of this mission, we will do an aerial refueling just off the coast of England.

Mark starts to open the envelope

MARK:

What is this?

AGENT HALE:

A letter you need to sign.

Mark stops walking, reads the letter and without hesitation, takes a pen from his pocket and signs it.

MARK:

Here you go.

Hands the document to Agent Hale who hands it to one of his men standing near-by..

AGENT HALE:

Thanks, just a formality. Seventy five years from now, you can say anything you want.

MARK:

Nice to know. Maybe I'll write a screenplay one day and dedicate it to Rose Alison.

AGENT HALE:

What are you talking about?

MARK:

Just dreaming.

As they make their way to the rear of the aircraft, both men are awed by the amount of equipment and vehicles on board which includes two helicopters.

MARK:

Who are we meeting with?

AGENT HALE:

The Predator UAV pilot and his sensor operators.

A few moments later, they are shaking hands with the men they have come to see.

AGENT HALE:

Captain Austin, let me introduce you to Captain Gates. He will be flying the bird. This is Sergeant First Class Warren and Staff Sergeant Mills. They will be controlling the cameras.

MARK:

Nice to meet you gentlemen. Captain Gates how quickly can you get airborne once we land.

CPT. GATES:

One hour, most of that time will be establishing the SATCOM link. Thank god the Agency has their own satellites.

MARK:

That's incredible. You guys pull that off, I'll be very impressed. Tell me about the new optics.

CPT. GATES:

DARPA worked with FLIR to improve their UMHD ultra-stable airborne broadcast camera system. They took the 1140mm zoom lens with 5-axes microprocessor controlled gyro-stabilization and made it even better. Bottom line, we fly the most powerful zoom allowing us to stay high without sacrificing wide angle performance which we will need on this mission.

MARK:

Has there been any improvement to the remote back focus adjustment?

CPT. GATES:

None, it's good to go as is.

Agent Hale takes a seat, pulls out a map from his brief case and opens it up on the floor

AGENT HALE:

Our biggest challenge on this mission is speed. Here is Karbala. About 20 miles north is the city of al-Musayyib and approximately 40 more miles to the north is Baghdad. Notice that the Euphrates river must be crossed in al-Musayyib in order to get to Baghdad. That is where we will take down Ms. Mici, right on the bridge. It's the only safe place that we can control Moqtada Sadr's Mahdi Militia men who are escorting Mici. The plan is for the Predator UAV to make visual contact of their convoy no less then half way between Karbala and al-Musayyib. Once that is accomplished, we can pull back all other air and ground surveillance teams. Mici and her group will have no idea that they are being watched. As Mici's vehicle starts to cross the bridge, 1st Group will neutralize the remainder of the convoy and commandeer her vehicle. Now the fun part. Once we have Mici, we will land a CH-47 on the bridge, lower its ramp, drive her vehicle onto the helicopter and off she goes to Diego Garcia for interrogation which gentlemen as we all know is itself Top Secret since we do not interrogate there.

MARK:

Agent Hale, how do I fit into this?

AGENT HALE:

You and I will be on the helicopter. Once she is on board frightened to death, you will make positive ID and commence the initial interrogation. She will be freaking out when she sees you and we will take great advantage of that. This woman thinks she is invincible, a God.......

MARK:

Memento Mori.

Agent Hale smiles at Mark

AGENT HALE:

Very good Captain Austin, Memento Mori, indeed.

Sergeant First Class Warren takes a seat next to Captain Austin

SFC WARREN:

What does that mean Sir?

MARK:

Remember That You Are Mortal....... Something we like to impress upon those we interrogate most of which have some kind of God complex.

Agent Hale stands up

Because of the sensitive nature of the mission is why we brought our own Predator team. There are other Unmanned Aerial Vehicle assets in the AO but none have the new optics we want and more importantly, the Agency wants to minimize the involvement of DOD personnel.

Looking at Sergeant First Class Warren

No offense gentlemen.

SFC WARREN:

None taken.

AGENT HALE:

Actually Mark, this UAV team has been with me on several missions in Afghanistan and Serbia. They're simply the best. We will be relaying live imagery of the mission via secure satellite back to Langley.

MARK:

What were you doing in Serbia?

AGENT HALE:

Well it seems as though your girl Mici loves a threesome: drugs, murder and organ trafficking.

MARK:

What the fuck are you talking about, organ trafficking?

AGENT HALE:

Since 1999 the Kosovo Liberation Army has been deeply involved with organ trafficking. Both the Serbian war crimes prosecutor's office and the Investigation Office of the U.N. Tribunal in The Hague have been trying to put a case together but just when they get close to doing so, key witnesses mysteriously end up dead. Since the 98/99 war, hundreds of Serbians have disappeared. Kosovo Albanian rebels and the KLA have been taking imprisoned and/or kidnapped Serbs to prison camps in northern Albania. The healthy ones, especially the young, get picked out, killed and their organs are harvested and sold to international traffickers, many are Iraqi. Recently, three mass graves have been discovered in northern Albania containing the remains of the Serbian victims.

MARK:

This is all sick and sad but why is the CIA involved?

AGENT HALE:

It was a Delta Force team under the direction of our Station Chief in Belgrade that discovered the three grave sites. During the team's exfiltration, their position was compromised and one man was lost. A week later, his heart and lungs showed up at the Belgrade office in a paper bag with a note telling the US to stay out of Albania. That same day, the station Chief, Robert Ray, was abducted by the KLA. It turns out your girl, Mici, ordered the kidnapping and seems to be the King Pin behind the organ trafficking.

MARK:

I really wish you would stop calling her my girl. My girl is in Vegas spending $50,000 dollars and has promised me the greatest gift when she returns. Not all promises are broken or bridges burnt.

AGENT HALE:

What are you talking about?

MARK:

Nothing, It's a long story. You wouldn't believe me if I told you.

AGENT HALE:

Anyhow, Mici is the only one that can order his release assuming he's not dead. You are the only one that can make an absolute ID of Mici. When our HUMINT reported Mici was going to rendezvous with Sadr is when this operation got put together and you were pulled from your cute little life in the OC. She will be our pawn to get Chief Ray back.

MARK:

What if she doesn't talk?

AGENT HALE:

Not talking isn't an option. Once the KLA knows she has been captured, Ray is dead. That gives us at best 16 to 18 hours to have your girl.........I'm sorry, Ms. Mici do the right thing.

MARK:

Understood.

Mark rubs his eyes a few times

AGENT HALE:

Are you OK Captain Austin?

MARK:

Last night was the most incredible sex I ever had.

AGENT HALE:

Were you alone?

All the guys laugh

MARK:

Not bad Hale. That was good timing and no I wasn't alone.

AGENT HALE:

Before you go on Mark, look around. Look at every one in here.

Mark does look at everyone

Last night we were all in the arms of the women we love. We all went somewhere private, screamed and hit something before putting on our soldier face and boarded this aircraft. It's who we are and they're the women who understand and support us. Most women after a short while would freak out and scream that they hate the Army, the war, the Agency, the DEA and run as far away from us as possible. Deep down, I can't blame them.

MARK:

Well put.......You fucking just described my entire life in 30 seconds.

Mark walks over and shakes Agent Hale's hand

I know we got off on the wrong foot but you're OK for an Agency guy.

AGENT HALE:

Well you're OK for a God Damn Door Kicker.

Mark waves to all the men

MARK:

Gentlemen, it's been real. I'm proud to be part of this group but now it's time to go back to my seat and listen to some Uriah Heap on my IPOD and do a little reading, ciao.

V.O. NARRATIVE:

Mark returns to his chair, turns up the volume on his music and pulls Anya's note from his wallet which he reads over and over again until he falls asleep.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yOtv4kN-PAs

SCENE 19

INT. INSIDE AIRCRAFT - EARLY MORNING - CONTINUOUS ACTION

V.O. NARRATIVE:

A perfect three point landing and the roar of the wind as the flaps of the giant C-5 aircraft are lowered mark the arrival to Baghdad Airport, the second most guarded facility on earth next to the Pentagon. Once the aircraft finally came to a halt, it is met by a Military Police vehicle which escorts it to the far side of the runway. This usually isolated portion of the runway is buzzing with the presence of three dozen security personnel standing by as the Predator UAV flight team off-load their unmanned aerial vehicle, its Command and Control trailer, satellite system, vehicles and support equipment. As they continue to set up for launch, Mark and Agent Hale are met by three Military Policemen who escort them to the main terminal area. As they walk through the airport, which is crowded with military personnel, everyone in view turns to watch as Captain Austin and Agent Hale are escorted by the three Military Policemen to a well known "OFF LIMITS" section of the building.

AGENT HALE:

Mark, do you get the feeling that we are being watched?

Mark is looking around the building as they walk

MARK:

Well, it's no Caesars Palace.

They are taken to a briefing where one of the Military Policemen announces their arrival and along with the other two depart the area.

CHIEF FRANKS:

Come in gentlemen. How was the flight?

Agent Hale and Captain Austin shake hands with the six men in the room. All six are in civilian clothes and obviously not Military personnel.

AGENT HALE:

Mark let me introduce you to my boss, Station Chief Franks and these five actually work directly for me. This is Dave and Don. They are my communication specialists both MIT grads. This is Brian and Chad. They are my document exploitation specialists both Harvard men and finally this giant of a man is from your neck of the woods. This is Tony, a UCLA boy like you.

MARK:

Nice to meet you Tony. Where are you from?

TONY:

I grew up one block from where you live, just off of Poppy and Pacific Coast Highway.

MARK:

You're shitting me? That's awesome.........How do you know where I live?

TONY:

Let's just say, I have video of an extremely beautiful woman, not your wife, leaving your house yesterday morning. She and your friend Rose got pulled over by the CHP near Baker but I took care of it. My boys did a fly over to make sure they were safe and back on their way. Right now, they are the two most protected women in Las Vegas and they don't have a clue.

MARK:

Damn, you guys are good.......

TONY:

By the way, you left your front door unlocked. I took care of that too. You need to be more careful Agent Austin. You never know who could come in and surprise you.

His serious look turns to a smile

Nice to have a fellow Bruin on board.

Chief Franks walks over to a series of enlarged photographs on the wall

CHIEF FRANKS:

These are photographs of Musayyib Bridge which, as you know, links Baghdad to Karbala over the Euphrates. The bridge was partially destroyed in 2004 but by the summer of 06, the Army had it re-opened. The key to mission success will be landing the CH-47 on the bridge.

Mark walks over to the photographs and examines them closely

MARK:

Why not just take Mici and leave the vehicle for Army Intel to search?

AGENT HALE:

The Agency cleans up its own mess, just like we were never there.

MARK:

Got it.

CHIEF FRANKS:

Last report was that Mici and her convoy of six vehicles are still in Karbala with Moqtada Sadr and should be departing for Mussayyib within two hours.

Pointing at Agent Hale Go check on your Predator team. I need them airborne ASAP!

AGENT HALE:

Yes Sir, I'll be right back.

Agent Hale departs the room as Mark cotinues to examine the photographs

MARK:

How well do you know Chief Ray?

CHIEF FRANKS:

We met in the Academy in 1980. He's my son's Godfather. You get Ms. Mici to comply in a timely manner and you can write your own ticket if you want to come over to the Agency.

MARK:

Interesting thought.

Chief Franks points at Tony

CHIEF FRANKS:

Agent Dykstra take Agent Austin to get something to eat and then to the helicopter.

TONY:

Yes Sir....Captain Austin follow me.

They depart the room

For about the next hour Mark and Tony are eating, drinking and laughing in the crowded Mess Hall as they share stories of growing up in Southern California. The longer they talked, the more people it turned out they both knew.

TONY:

Ocean Avenue Brewery, no fucking way! My brother is the head bartender there.

MARK:

Is he monster size like you?

TONY:

That's him.

MARK:

Your brother gave me a stern warning not to piss off Anya. He scared the shit out of me and I was standing there with 2 guns on my person. Honestly, it makes me feel good that he looks out for Rose and Anya. Is he married?

Tony looks right into Mark's eyes

TONY:

He's gay...My monster brother is a homosexual.

MARK:

OH MY GOD!........I don't even know what to say. Someone that big, that good looking could have any woman he wants.

TONY:

Evidentally that goes for men too.

MARK:

Regardless, your brother does me well by looking out for the two women I love most in this world. You need to join us one Thursday night.

AGENT HALE:

I will. I promise

Looks at his watch

We need to get to the helicpoter immediately.

Just as they start to leave, Tony's phone rings.

We are on our way. We'll be there in three minutes.

As they walk up the the back ramp of the helicopter, both blades are are spinning. Tony gives Mark a final hand shake

TONY:

Be safe my friend. See you in Laguna!

MARK:

It's a date.

Just then the ramp is raised and the helicopter takes off heading due south

Apart from the three man flight crew, pilot, co-pilot and safety officer, Mark and Agent Hale are the only two on this large and very empty helicopter. Agent Hale is showing Mark live imagery coming in from the Predator on his laptop computer.

AGENT HALE:

Well Mark, looks like we're about 45 minutes from show time. Are you ready?

MARK:

Yes, I'm more then ready to get this shit over with......Look at that imagery.

Mark is studying the real-time footage being downlinked to Agent Hale's computer

I thought my stuff was good. This is simply awesome.

AGENT HALE:

She is in the lead vehicle. I can't believe those idiots have her in the first vehicle. This is going to make our job very easy. She will be let onto the bridge and stopped. The other vehicles will never make it onto the bridge.........We will land dead center of the bridge to make the interdiction.

MARK:

How will the vehicle be stopped?

AGENT HALE:

The boys from 1st Group will have an obstacle in place to stop the vehicle. The driver will be neuturalized and yanked from the car. Mici will be pulled from the vehicle while her car is being driven onboard. Your Green Beret boys will turn her over to us and all of them will exit the bird as we take off. The whole operation should last less than one minute.

Over the next hour, Agent Hale and Mark watch as the plan unfolds perfectly from the Predator imagery. Neither are speaking and nervous sweat is running down both of their faces. All of a sudden, the pilot makes an announcement over their headphones.

PILOT:

Gentlemen, shots are being fired and we have been given the all clear to land. Hold on were going down fast and hard. Do not move from your seats until the vehicle is secured and the safety officer gives you the thumbs up signal!

V.O. NARRATIVE:

With a violent turn to the left which sends Agent Hale's laptop crashing to the floor, the CH-47 seems to fall from the sky slamming onto the bridge. The ramp is lowered at full speed to the deafening sounds of the rotar blades, screaming from the Special Ops soldiers and the continuation of gunfire from all sectors of the bridge. A small, white, four door Mercedes sedan is raced up the ramp and for the next few moments the vehicle is hastily strapped down by the CH-47's safety officer. A slight change to the plan has Mici still in the car. She is in the passanger seat screaming and pulling at the arm of the Special Ops soldier who has her in a choke hold with his left arm and a Colt .45 pushed hard against her right temple. Her face is bleeding from the left eye, her nose appears broken. More blood is flowing from her mouth and a long gash across her forehead adds to the horrific sight. Moments later, the safety officer quickly moves to the front of the vehicle and gives the signal. Captain Austin races to the passanger door, yanks it open and takes hold of Mici by grabing her long hair with his left hand and turning her face towards his.

MARK:

I got her from here. Great job!

At that second, the Special Ops soldier who was driving the car and his partnr in the back seat holding onto Mici both exit the car and ran down the ramp as it started to be raised. With a dramatic movement seemingly straight up, the CH-47 departs the bridge 58 seconds after landing

SAFETY OFFICER:

Hold on tight! Don't move til I say so!

Mark looking directly at Mici's bloody face and into her tear filled eyes

MARK:

Kak Dela! Remember me darlin?

Within seconds, the Helicopter disappears from sight in route back to Baghdad Airport where the C-5 now emptyed and refueled is ready for its next flight to the small island of Diego Garcia in the middle of the Indian Ocean about 1,600Km south of India.

SCENE 20

INT. SHOWER ROOM - ESTABLISHING

http://www.myvideo.de/watch/5199921/Deep_Purple.Child_in_Time

Exactly 3 hours after taking off from Musayyib Bridge, Mark is alone in his room located in an Army compound just south of the Baghdad Airport. For the last 25 minutes he has been sitting on the shower room floor with the hot water spraying directly in his face in an attempt not to feel the tears.

MARK:

What the fuck have I done? Oh God, please forgive me.

SCENE 21

EXT. CITY STREET - SUNSET - CONTINUOUS ACTION

Just as the sun was setting on the horizon, Agent Hale and Agent Austin were standing in front of the only open restaurant in that part of town. It was still very hot outside but a nice breeze was picking up as Agent Hale hands Mark a cigar.

AGENT HALE:

Here, take this. It's a Cuban. Tony told me you like Cuban cigars and red heads. He's never wrong.

Mark smiles as he takes a cigar cutter out of his pocket.

MARK:

I never travel without it.

Mark cuts his cigar and Agent Hale's too for him.

AGENT HALE:

Mark, what you did back there was nothing short of spectacular, truly legacy worthy. I am in awe of you my friend.

Hands Mark a lighter to light up first.

None of us thought she was going to break coming into this operation. Absolutely amazing what you did.

MARK:

Let's just be glad it's over so we can get the fuck out of here.

Mark has to turn towards the building to light his cigar because of the breeze blowing.

V.O. NARRATIVE:

From across the street, Agent Hale watches in interest as a beautiful young Iraqi girl wearing western clothes and a cute pink back pack looks both ways before crossing the empty street between them. She can't be more then eight years old, Agent Hale thought to himself. As she comes towards him, she is smiling as though wanting to show off her perfectly white teeth and extends her arm to give him a present.

AGENT HALE:

Mark, you got to see this little girl. She's an angel.

MARK:

Give me a second. I can't light this damn thing.

Mark stays facing the building trying to shield the cigar from the wind.

In surprisingly good english

LITTLE GIRL:

Here mister, a white rose for you.

AGENT HALE:

Thanks sweetie.

V.O. NARRATIVE:

Mark can't believe what he just heard and drops the lighter and cigar as he turns around. Looking at the white rose, he immediately remembers that night in Laguna and the white rose Anya surprised him with. For a split second, Mark wondered where did that rose ever go to? He had forgotten about it until that very second. Looking down at the little girl, Mark was amazed at the beauty before him. Her hair was so long that it blew in the wind just like Anya's did that afternoon in Laguna and that brought an instant smile to his face.

AGENT HALE:

Mark, isn't she a doll?

Agent Hale leans down to take the flower.

Mark's smile turns to a look of horror as he notices a thin silver antenna protruding from the top of her back pack. Without a moments hesitation, Mark turns and pushes Agent Hale away from the girl.

MARK:

She's got a bomb, run! Get the fuck out of here!

V.O. NARRATIVE:

Lunging at the little girl, Mark is successful in ripping the pink back pack off her and pushing her towards Agent Hale as he sprints the back pack across the street in an attempt to throw it over a block wall into an empty field. Just as he is starting to throw the back pack, he remembers Anya leaning back against his chest, his arms around her as they watched the sunset in Laguna. He can still smell her beautiful perfume and remembers how much he loves the feel of her long hair on his arms. He remembers picking up and reading Anya's note left on the bed, ".........OK babe, I have to go now and if I don't go now, I wont go at all. Thanks for everything you did about Vegas. You are a wonderful man, you know that.. Will be thinking of you the whole time and wishing you were with us.... Miss you already babe.xxxx

The back pack never left Mark's hand. With all his might he tried. He tried to be a good son to his mother. He tried to be a good friend to Rose. He tried to be a good husband to Annie. He tried to be a good Agent and Commanding Officer. He tried not to fall in love with Anya. He tried.

The force of the explosion left an eight meter wide, 2 meter deep hole in the street right where Mark last stepped. Agent Hale and the little girl were thrown to the ground by the force of the explosion at the side of the building which shielded them from flame and debris. Mark had saved both of them but not himself. He couldn't save himself from being in love in the time of war.

SCENE 22

EXT. DRIVEWAY OF HOME - AFTERNOON - ESTABLISHING

V.O. NARRATIVE:

It was Thursday afternoon around 2pm when Annie arrived back at the house. As she pulled into the driveway, she couldn't figure out what all the grey military sedans were doing parked outside? She was a bit concerned until she saw Jonathan all dressed up in his Dress Blue uniform. She figured the boys were off to a formal function back at the Army Base in Los Alamitos and must have some of the unit members over. Annie exited the car with a big smile.

Waving her hand as she walks towards him

ANNIE:

Hi Jonathan. Great to see you. Is Mark in the house love?

Just then five more Army men came around the corner, led by Col. Crites. No one was smiling.

Jonathan what's going on?

Annie starts to back up towards the car

Jonathan where is Mark? What's happening? Jonathan!

She starts crying and screaming

Someone tell me what the bloody hell is going on?!

She starts to run towards the front door screaming for him

Mark! Mark!

Jonathan reaches out and she falls helplessly into his arms

No! No! No! Let me go! Let me go. All of you get the fuck off my property!

Annie looks up at Jonathan through her tear filled eyes

Go get him Jon..........Please, go get my husband for me, please.

She can't say another word as she and Jonathan stand holding each other tight, both crying

SCENE 23

EXT.

V.O. NARRATIVE:

EXT. DRIVING THROUGH TOWN - AFTERNOON

That following Sunday at high noon, the funeral procession made its way across town from the church to the graveyard with no less than 100 vehicles, Police racing from intersection to intersection in advance of the motorcade to stop traffic. Annie's black limousine was the lead vehicle. Silently, she sat with Tina in the back of the limousine. Neither one speaking a single word. Annie just looked out the window at the Police Officers holding back the traffic as they passed through each intersection. Before the hour was half gone, everyone had made it to the gravesite. Although Annie arrived first, she just stayed in the car looking out the tinted window across the grass field at the casket positioned so accurately, drapped with the American flag on top as if in a position of attention. She watched in silence as one by one people approached the casket, touched it and turned away with tears. The last person to touch the casket was Anya who placed a single white rose on the casket, stood there for a moment and burst into tears causing her sunglasses to fall to the ground. Annie watched as Rose came to hug Anya and help her to her seat.

Tina takes Annie's hand

TINA:

It's time.

ANNIE:

OK, I'm ready.

Tina signals the chauffer who opens Annie's door.

As they walk to their seats, everyone turns to see them approach. Once seated, the Color Guard Commander standing in front of everyone gives the command

COMMANDER:

Color Guard, Attention!

He is handed the folded American flag taken from the casket, walks over to Annie and hands it to her.

COMMANDER:

Mrs. Austin, we all loved your husband. This flag is for you.

Annie could see his eyes well up

ANNIE:

Thank you very much.

As the Color Guard marches away, three CH-47 helicopters in the missing man formation fly overhead as Col. Crites begins the final unit Roll Call.

COL. CRITES:

Alpha Company, First Platoon report!

SOLDIER 1:

First Platoon all present or accounted for.

COL. CRITES:

Alpha Company Second Platoon report!

SOLDIER 2:

Second Platoon all present or accounted for.

COL.CRITES:

Alpha Company Third Platoon report!

SOLDIER 3:

Third Platoon all present or accounted for.

COL. CRITES:

Alpha Company First Sergeant report!

SOLDIER 4:

First Sergeant present!

COL. CRITES:

Alpha Company Executive Officer report!

SOLDIER 5:

Executive Officer present.

COL. CRITES:

Alpha Company Commander report!

Long Silence

COL. CRITES:

Alpha Company Commander report!

Long Silence

COL. CRITES:

Alpha Company Commander report!

A long silence which ended with a single buggle in the distance playing Taps which brought tears to even the most stoic present.

http://bands.army.mil/music/bugle/calls/taps.mp3

As the last of the crowd drove away, only Rose and Anya remained to watch in silence the lowereing of the casket.

ANYA:

Rose, what happens now? I want to wake up and have everything back to the way it was. I want to keep my promise to Mark.

Starting to cry http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCeS-yorGtc

Rose, why didn't he wake up and tell me not to go to Vegas?

ROSE:

He would have never done that. Seeing you happy made him happy. He loved you so much Anya. As much as that hurt me, I knew he was madly in love with you.

Rose gives Anya a hug as they both cry.

SCENE 24

EXT. WALKING THROUGH DOWNTOWN LAGUNA BEACH - ESTABLISHING

V.O. NARRATIVE:

It's been a couple months since the funeral and life is slowly getting back to normal. Annie's dad has come up from Australia to spend some time with her. Tina came back as well for a kind of family reunion. Rose and Jonathan have been spending a lot of time with one another and seem very happy together. Anya spends her free time in Laguna walking the streets window shopping. With every step, she imagines Mark at her side holding her hand or dancing with her for no reason right on the sidewalk in front of a million strangers. She imagines coming home from Vegas and keeping her promise to him. She wonders how he would feel if he knew that she was pregnant. Yes it's true, she is. Anya found out last month but hasn't told anyone yet not even Rose. Walking down Ocean Avenue is almost too hard to do. Anya has never gone back inside the Brewery. She has walked by many times, stops and admires all the people inside having a good time. Today walking by, she hears her name being called out. Much to her suprise it's Annie standing in the entrance calling for her.

ANNIE:

Anya, Anya come here!

ANYA:

Hi Annie, I would love to but I'm late for an appointment.

She wants to just walk by but when she looks at Annie standing there all alone with tears in her eyes, she changes her mind

You know what? It can wait.

Anya walks up to Annie and gives her a kiss on the cheek.

ANNIE:

Anya, I always thought a sore heart was just a saying. It's not. It hurts. It hurts bad.

Annie takes Anya by the hand and pulls her inside.

Don't ever fall in love with a soldier in a time of war. It's unfair. It's unfair for everyone. Why did they take him from me, Anya? He was just a Reservist. They didn't even take the rest of his unit, just him, for what? I know Mark was always in love with Rose. I can't be mad at her for that. He was a beautiful man and she is so pretty. Honestly, I don't know why they didn't just get married. If you ever knew how sweet he could be, how truly loving he was, you would be in love with him too.

V.O. NARRATIVE:

Annie starts to cry so Anya steps forward to hold her. Anya holds her tight, letting her cry on her shoulder. Anya kisses Annie's hair and remembers the first night she walked up to Mark in this place and knew right then that she never wanted to be apart from him. She will never forget how he whispered, "You're so pretty", as they ended that first hug and he left the bar. She remembered watching Mark walk through the parking lot of the Mall holding and talking with baby Phillip. What was the secret Mark told him?

ANNIE:

Anya, can you even imagine how wonderful it was to be married to Mark?

ANYA:

Wish I could.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANOqMc7KwKs

THE END

Royal Gigolos Scene 1 "California Dreamin"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbpcHNum0MI

Seneca Scene 2 "Clarity"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h3XZH6UIsE8

Bill Withers Scene 2 "Ain’t No Sunshine"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIdIqbv7SPo

Alison Krauss Scene 3 "When You Say Nothing At All"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjsjZWlRVvo

Led Zeppelin Scene 3 "Bron-Yr-Aur"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHR7ObvgW_o

Robert Plant & Alison Krauss Scene 5 "Please Read The Letter"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MpjnaGOeHH4

A Fine Frenzy Scene 6 "Come On, Come Out"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVdia_7a0Vw

Barry White Scene 6 "Never Gonna Give You Up"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLLxyNeeLMc&feature=related

Cecilio & Kapono Scene 6 "About You"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JnxSxYwBvN8

Ted Nugent Scene 9 "Stranglehold"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lu8rdW46bLU&feature=related-----

Marc Anthony Scene 10 "You Sang To Me"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_A_GiZ4NWQ&feature=fvst

Santana Scene 10 "Europa"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRIbuIeTew4

Milla Jovovich Scene 11 "Breathing In Your Sleep"

http://www.millaj.com/sounds/Breathing%20In%20Your%20Sleep.mp3

Tool Scene 11 "Vicarious"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yIFy2B3s5UE&feature=related

Deep Purple Scene 12 "Highway Star"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0G-peyzP_M&feature=related

Carrie Underwood Scene 13 "I Told You So"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iH4nPiHRIG0

Sade Scene 16 "No Ordinary Love"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qrro8vHSgG4

Uriah Heap Scene 18 "Lady In Black"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yOtv4kN-PAs

Deep Purple Scene 20 "Child In Time"

http://www.myvideo.de/watch/5199921/Deep_Purple_Child_in_Time

A Fine Frenzy Scene 23 "Almost Lover"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCeS-yorGtc

Norah Jones Scene 24 "Wish I Could"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANOqMc7KwKs

---

This song has nothing to do with this story. I just love Joss Stone! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBH8o8XXnVM