A small town where nothing newsworthy ever happens.
Statuesque trees line quiet streets with a mix of brick, or
aluminum-clad houses.
In a small park, a handful of mothers watch their young
children play on the swings or the jungle gym. An occasional
car weaves slowly past boys riding their bicycles on the
street.
A fence encloses a backyard with a sandbox and a swing set.
Hanging from the back porch, a faded red leather punching bag
sways in the slight breeze.
EXT. JENNY KINGSLEY’S HOUSE - DAY
A fifties two-story house, a bit faded but the abundance of
flower pots and a freshly painted white picket fence make it
almost cheerful.
INT. JENNY’S KITCHEN - DAY
Appliances and linoleum from the seventies brightened with
recently painted cupboards and new floral wallpaper.
JENNY KINGSLEY, (24), no make-up, dirty blonde hair pulled
back in a tight ponytail; a timid mouse who might blow over
in a windstorm, rummages through the cupboards pulling out
bread and peanut butter.
CLAYTON KINGSLEY, (5) blonde, dressed in shorts and a puppy
dog T-shirt, sits at the kitchen table coloring. He is robust
and outgoing, sharing none of his mother’s lack of
confidence.
CLAYTON
I want to go out.
JENNY
Lunch first.
PHONE RINGS. Jenny crosses to a wall phone with a long coiled
cord, lifts the receiver.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Hi, Mom.
2.
Her shoulders droop, her smile fades, her fingers clench the
receiver.
CLAYTON
I wanna play outside.
Putting her hand over the phone, Jenny sighs and plants a
kiss on his head.
JENNY
Don't get dirty. Lunch is almost
ready. Then, we're going to your
new school.
The screen door SLAMS behind him. Jenny takes a deep breath
before speaking into the phone.
JENNY (CONT’D)
How are you?
Jenny perches on the edge of a kitchen chair.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Sorry to hear that. Yes, I know
you’re not well.
Jenny, the receiver to her ear, stretches the long cord to
its limit as she crosses to the sink and looks out the window
overlooking the backyard.
Through the window, we see Clayton playing in the sandbox.
Securing the receiver between her shoulder and her ear, Jenny
makes sandwiches and places them on the table.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Yes, I know. You put up with a lot.
Jenny crosses to the sink and looks out the window. Clayton
is building a road for his cars in the sand.
JENNY (CONT’D)
How’s Dad? Yes, I know your
arthritis is acting up ...
Jenny leans against the counter.
JENNY (CONT’D)
How’s Dad’s breathing? Is the
oxygen helping?
She glances at the clock, then crosses to the window again.
3.
JENNY (CONT’D)
I’m fine, Mom. Clayton’s fine.
Slumping into a chair, she closes her eyes briefly, rises and
walks back to the window. Clayton plays in the sandbox.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Enough, Mom! I’m not getting back
with Ray. You know I’ve tried.
Jenny’s grip on the phone tightens.
JENNY (CONT’D)
I don’t care what Dad put you
through. I’m not putting up with
Ray’s drinking, his arguing ...
Her shoulders stiffen. She picks up a dish towel.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Please. Stop! I’m not moving back
to Dresden, and I’m not getting
back with Ray.
Furiously, she swipes at the counter with the dish towel.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Are you even listening to me?
She checks the backyard.
JENNY (CONT’D)
I can’t see Clayton. I have to go.
She slams down the receiver, throws the tea towel over her
shoulder, and hurries to the back door.
Genres:
["Drama","Family"]
Ratings
Scene
2 -
Kickboxing Lunch Break
EXT. JENNY’S BACKYARD - DAY
Jenny stands on the back porch.
She uses the tea towel to swat at flies as she scans the
backyard - the sandbox, empty except for an assortment of
cars and trucks, the swing, swaying in the breeze, also
empty.
JENNY
Clayton. Lunch is ready. Come on.
Jenny clenches her fist and pummels a large red punching bag
hanging from the porch roof.
4.
JENNY (CONT’D)
This isn’t a game. Clayton, come
now!
A small blonde head pops up from behind a Forsythia bush.
Clayton runs toward her, giggling.
CLAYTON
I was playing hide-and-seek.
When Clayton reaches her, Jenny hugs him.
JENNY
You know I don’t like you hiding on
me.
CLAYTON
I’m sorry.
JENNY
Don’t do it again.
Clayton sticks out his lower lip, then laughs.
CLAYTON
I won’t.
JENNY
Promise?
CLAYTON
Pinky swear promise.
Clayton is serious for five seconds.
CLAYTON (CONT’D)
We’re going to my new school?
Jenny smiles.
JENNY
Yes, to meet your teacher.
CLAYTON
Can we do kickbox when we get home?
Clayton crosses to the chair beside the punching bag. On it
sit two sets of boxing gloves, one adult and one child size.
He slips one of the small ones on and punches the bag several
times.
JENNY
Lunch now, Mister.
5.
CLAYTON
My favorite?
JENNY
Peanut butter and honey.
Clayton kicks out at the bag, stumbles. Jenny catches him.
While she holds him, he gives the bag another kick.
JENNY (CONT’D)
You’re getting good at this. Now
stand like this.
She shows him how to plant his feet. He copies her, gives
another kick at the bag.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Good job.
CLAYTON
You have to practice, too.
Jenny laughs.
JENNY
After we get back. We’ll both
practice.
Clayton lays down the glove, makes a face at his mother, then
laughs. He follows her inside.
Genres:
["Drama","Family"]
Ratings
Scene
3 -
Street Safety and a Silent Neighbor
EXT. JENNY’S FRONT YARD - DAY
Jenny and Clayton come out of the house. They follow the path
to the white picket fence.
Clayton jumps up several times trying to reach the latch.
CLAYTON
I can’t do it.
JENNY
That’s good. Then you can’t run
away.
CLAYTON
I wouldn’t run away. I love you,
Mommy.
Jenny grins and rubs the top of his head.
JENNY
Love you more!
6.
She unlatches the gate and they go through to the street. The
gate SLAMS shut behind them.
EXT. STREET IN FRONT OF JENNY'S HOUSE - DAY
Jenny walks down the street. Clayton skips beside her.
JENNY (CONT’D)
So, what are the rules?
Clayton tips his head from side to side.
CLAYTON
Stop, look and listen before I
cross the street. No biting or
hitting. Say please and thank you.
JENNY
And ...
CLAYTON
Listen to my teacher.
Jenny smiles and nods.
JENNY
And ...
Clayton does a large jump over a sidewalk crack.
CLAYTON
And don’t talk to strangers!
JENNY
Very good.
A tightly permed, grey-haired lady, Mrs. Hawthorne, 70s,
weeds her front garden.
Mrs. Hawthorne continues weeding without responding.
CLAYTON
How come you talked to her, Mommy?
Isn’t she a stranger?
Jenny leans down and whispers to Clayton.
JENNY
I’m being polite. She’s our
neighbor.
7.
CLAYTON
How come she didn’t say hello?
Continuing to whisper.
JENNY
Maybe she didn’t hear me.
No longer interested, Clayton leaps over another crack in the
sidewalk.
Genres:
["Drama","Family"]
Ratings
Scene
4 -
First Day Jitters
INT. SCOTTSVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOL - PRINCIPAL’S OFFICE - DAY
Jenny and Clayton sit across the desk from MRS. NORTON, 50’s,
prim, proper, typical old-school career teacher.
The woman examines the papers in front of her.
MRS. NORTON
We need another contact number. In
case we can’t reach you.
She peers at Jenny through bifocal lenses.
MRS. NORTON (CONT’D)
His father?
JENNY
Not in the picture.
Jenny shakes her head, nodding at Clayton.
Does judgment show in the principal’s eyes? But a
professional, she recovers quickly.
MRS. NORTON
It says here that he has Asthma.
JENNY
He doesn’t need it often, but here
is his Ventolin puffer.
Jenny hands over the inhaler.
JENNY (CONT’D)
The directions are on the label.
MRS. NORTON
I’ll make sure his teacher has it.
She takes another look at the papers.
8.
MRS. NORTON (CONT’D)
Well, everything seems to be in
order.
(to Clayton)
Are you ready to meet your teacher,
young man?
Clayton jumps out of the chair.
CLAYTON
I can read already. And I do
kickbox.
Eyebrows raised, Mrs. Norton turns to Jenny who swallows
hard, looking as if she wants the chair to swallow her.
JENNY
I’m learning kickboxing. He has a
pair of boxing gloves. He knows he
only punches the bag.
Clayton nods.
CLAYTON
Just the bag. No hitting people.
Mrs. Norton sighs loudly. She’s skeptical but anxious to move
on.
MRS. NORTON
Let’s go meet your teacher.
Jenny takes Clayton’s hand. They follow the principal out the
door.
Genres:
["Drama","Family"]
Ratings
Scene
5 -
A New School, An Old Conflict
INT. SCOTTSVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOL - HALLWAY
The principal leads Jenny and Clayton toward the classrooms.
A door opens.
A rough-hewn man, TYRELL WATSON, mid 30’s, limps out into the
hall. He pushes a mop and bucket.
After a long glance at Jenny and Clayton, he speaks to the
principal.
TYRELL WATSON
If it’s okay with you, I’m leaving.
MRS. NORTON
Your work done for the day?
9.
TYRELL WATSON
Yes, Ma’am.
Tyrell smiles at Clayton. He waves at him before turning and
limping down the hallway.
MRS. NORTON
We’ll see you tomorrow.
(to Jenny)
And here is Mrs. Taylor. I’ll leave
you with her.
A cute, bouncy, early 20’s, MRS. TAYLOR, stands at the
doorway. She waves to Jenny and Clayton,
MRS. TAYLOR
Come in. Let me show you our
classroom.
INT. JENNY'S KITCHEN - DAY
Jenny and Clayton paste papers on the fridge beside several
of Clayton’s drawings and photos of Jenny and Clayton.
JENNY
This is your school schedule.
CLAYTON
How many sleeps before I go?
Jenny holds up several fingers. Clayton counts them.
CLAYTON (CONT’D)
Nine sleeps. Then I go to school!
JENNY
That’s right.
The PHONE RINGS.
CLAYTON
I want to play outside.
Jenny reaches for the phone.
JENNY
(to Clayton)
I’ll be out in a minute.
Clayton runs out the back door.
10.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Hello, Mom.
(beat)
I’m sorry. Yes, I should have
called you back. Sorry if you were
worried. Clayton was in the
backyard. I just couldn’t see him.
Pacing the kitchen, Jenny frequently looks out the kitchen
window.
JENNY (CONT’D)
He’s not bad! He’s a boy. He likes
to play. I said I was sorry for not
calling you back. I had to take
Clayton to his new school.
Her hand tightens on the receiver. She closes her eyes for a
second. When she opens them, she purses her lips and speaks
angrily.
JENNY (CONT’D)
We’re not moving back to Dresden. I
have to go.
Jenny’s hands shake as she hangs up the phone. She heads to
the back door, glancing at the clock. 1:15.
Genres:
["Drama","Slice of Life"]
Ratings
Scene
6 -
A Mother's Panic
EXT. JENNY’S BACK PORCH - DAY
Jenny slips her hands into the boxing gloves and takes
several swipes at the punching bag. She also delivers a few
ineffective and clumsy kicks.
Determination shows in her pinched mouth, tense face and
body.
After a few hits to the bag, her body relaxes.
JENNY
Clayton, come and do some boxing
with me.
Jenny continues to punch the bag.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Clayton!
The backyard is quiet. Clayton has not appeared.
JENNY (CONT’D)
This isn’t a game. Come out now.
11.
Jenny yanks off the gloves, throws them onto the chair and
steps off the porch.
EXT. JENNY'S BACKYARD
Jenny walks the backyard. The sandbox is empty, the swing is
empty, the yard is empty.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Clayton!
She hurries around the side of the house.
EXT. JENNY’S FRONT YARD - DAY
Jenny freezes when she sees the front gate open and swinging
on its rusty hinges.
JENNY
Oh, God!
EXT. JENNY’S STREET - DAY
Stumbling through the gate, Jenny races down the street,
yelling Clayton’s name.
At the corner, two BOYS do wheelies on their ten speeds.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Have you seen a small blonde boy?
Jenny puts her hand just above her waist.
JENNY (CONT’D)
He's about this tall.
BOY #1
Nope.
JENNY
Are you sure?
One boy back peddles his bicycle, the other leans on the
handlebars.
BOY #2
Haven't seen him.
They bike away. Jenny, face pale and drawn, hurries back down
the street screaming Clayton’s name.
Mrs. Hawthorne plants flowers in her front garden.
12.
JENNY
Mrs. Hawthorne, have you seen
Clayton?
MRS. HAWTHORNE
Don't know any Clayton.
JENNY
My son. He was with me this
morning. We said hello to you.
MRS. HAWTHORNE
Don’t know you. Don’t know your
kid.
JENNY
We moved into the McLaren house a
few months ago.
MRS. HAWTHORNE
Told you. Don't know you or your
kid.
She continues gardening, ignoring Jenny.
JENNY
I can’t find him.
MRS. HAWTHORNE
Then you should have been watching
him better.
Mrs. Hawthorne attacks the ground with her trowel. She glares
at Jenny. Her voice rises.
MRS. HAWTHORNE (CONT’D)
Little brats. Trampling my
flowers, knocking over my
birdbath...
Jenny takes a step back, stumbles away.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
7 -
Clayton's Disappearance
EXT. STREET IN FRONT OF JENNY’S HOUSE - DAY
Jenny sags against the fence and screams.
JENNY
Clayton, where are you?
Jenny's neighbor, STEVE TOWNSEND, early 30’s, quarterback
build, rushes out of his house. He calls from the verandah.
13.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Jenny, what’s wrong?
JENNY
I can’t find Clayton.
Steve bounds down the stairs. Jenny speaks between sobs.
JENNY (CONT’D)
He was playing in the sandbox...now
he’s gone!
STEVE TOWNSEND
Maybe he’s just down the street.
JENNY
He can't open the gate.
STEVE TOWNSEND
He's been growing like a weed.
Maybe he figured it out.
Her face drains of color.
JENNY
Oh, God. Someone took him!
She slides to the ground. Steve kneels beside her, cradling
her limp body. He looks toward his house and yells.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Mom!
Jenny moans, her body shaking.
STEVE TOWNSEND (CONT’D)
Mom, get out here, now!
A petite, gray-haired, MYRTLE TOWNSEND, 60’s, appears at the
door. She hurries down the steps.
MYRTLE
What's going on?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Jenny can't find Clayton.
The muscles on Myrtle's face tighten. A look passes between
mother and son. Her head shakes slowly.
MYRTLE
(mumbles to herself)
No. Not again.
14.
Jenny lets out a strangled cry and struggles to get up.
JENNY
Clayton...
Myrtle looks at Steve.
MYRTLE
Should we call the police?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Let me have a quick look first.
He's probably just hiding.
Myrtle reaches out a hand to Jenny but quickly withdraws it.
She smiles hesitantly, her tone lacks the confidence of her
words.
MYRTLE
Boys do like to hide. I’m sure he's
going to pop his head up any
second.
Jenny closes her eyes as if saying a silent prayer.
JENNY
I have to keep looking.
She jerks away from Steve, tries to stand, stumbles. He
reaches out, supports her.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Go with Mom. I’ll look for him. He
can't have gone far.
JENNY
I need to go with you.
STEVE TOWNSEND
You should stay here. He'll be
upset if he can't find you when he
comes out of hiding.
Jenny allows Myrtle to help her along the path to her house.
Steve and Myrtle share a look. Distracted, Jenny doesn’t
notice.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
8 -
Clayton's Disappearance
INT. JENNY’S KITCHEN - DAY
Myrtle follows Jenny to the kitchen where Jenny sits stiff as
the wooden chair beneath her.
15.
MYRTLE
I’ll make some tea.
Myrtle puts a kettle on to boil. Jenny’s focus is on the
flowered wallpaper in front of her.
MYRTLE (CONT’D)
Boys do like to hide.
The kettle WHISTLES. Myrtle places tea bags and water into a
teapot. She glances at the clock on the wall.
MYRTLE (CONT’D)
I remember when Steve was a boy.
Always playing games on me.
Myrtle places a teacup in front of Jenny.
Jenny lifts the cup, her hands shake and she puts the cup
down. It rattles onto the saucer.
JENNY
Sorry.
She looks briefly at the older woman then focuses back on the
wallpaper flower. Unchecked tears track down her face.
MYRTLE
Maybe it's too hot.
Myrtle sits across from Jenny, her lips pursed and the hand
that picks up her teacup also shakes.
Jenny drops her hands to her lap, wringing them together as
if trying to control their shaking.
EXT. JENNY’S BACKYARD - DAY
Steve searches Jenny's backyard noting the empty sandbox and
the swing swaying in the breeze. He grabs the chain, halting
its movement.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Clayton, your mother’s looking for
you.
He quickly checks the perimeter of the yard. Looking back at
the house, he notices the wooden porch and heads toward it.
STEVE TOWNSEND (CONT’D)
Are you under here?
16.
Steve shimmies under the porch, pushing debris out of his
way. Reaching for something, he pulls out an old torn shirt.
He scrambles from under the porch, tossing it aside.
STEVE TOWNSEND (CONT’D)
(mutters to himself)
This can't be happening.
EXT. STREET IN FRONT OF JENNY'S HOUSE - DAY
Steve sprints out of the backyard. He checks the street.
Stopping at a house a few doors down, he KNOCKS at the front
door.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Hello! Anyone home?
When there is no answer, he runs to the back gate. A dog
chain lays empty in the grass.
Steve runs down the street, knocking on doors, questioning
anyone he sees.
After checking to the end of the street, he runs back to
Jenny’s.
INT. JENNY'S KITCHEN - DAY
Steve enters the kitchen, shoulders slumped, he shakes his
head.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Make the call, Mom.
Myrtle’s hand clenches the handset as she dials the phone.
MYRTLE
My neighbor's son is missing.
Jenny stares at the flowered wallpaper while Myrtle listens
to the person on the other end of the phone.
MYRTLE (CONT’D)
Jenny. Jenny.
She shakes Jenny's shoulder.
MYRTLE (CONT’D)
The police need some information.
Myrtle hands Jenny the phone.
17.
JENNY
Jenny Kingsley. Clayton’s five.
October nineteenth ... forty-five
pounds
Jenny’s hand jerks out to a spot in front of her.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Three feet tall.
Jenny's hand falls back into her lap. She closes her eyes.
Her voice sounds mechanical.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Blue shorts, a white Tee shirt ...
with brown puppy dogs on it. Please
hurry.
Myrtle takes the phone and hangs it up.
Jenny attempts to smile, but her lips lift only slightly
before becoming a stiff line again. She glances at the wall
clock. 1:45.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
9 -
Clayton's Disappearance
INT. JENNY'S KITCHEN - DAY
KNOCKING at the front door. Jenny glances at the wall clock.
2:05. Myrtle leaves the kitchen. Using the walls to support
her, Jenny follows.
JENNY'S FRONT DOOR
Myrtle opens the door to a burly, uniformed policeman,
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS, early 30’s. Myrtle lets him into the
house.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
You called about a missing child?
MYRTLE
This is Jenny Kingsley. Her son is
missing.
Myrtle motions him toward the living room.
JENNY'S LIVING ROOM
Jenny slumps on the sofa. Steve sits near her, the policeman
sits opposite.
He starts when he notices Steve. He turns to him.
18.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
(harsh tone)
What are you doing here?
Myrtle looks from her son to the police officer, then rises
and nods to Jenny.
MYRTLE
I’ll be next door if you need me.
Myrtle leaves. Jenny faces the officer, tears glaze her eyes,
her voice trembles.
JENNY
Please. You need to find him!
Sneering, Roberts nods toward Steve.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
You sure he didn’t take him?
Jenny starts. Her eyes widen.
JENNY STEVE TOWNSEND
No! He’s my neighbor. I didn’t take him!
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
We’ll be checking you out.
Roberts glares at Steve whose eyes have narrowed and a muscle
twitches on his drawn face. His body is stiff and his fists
clenched.
STEVE TOWNSEND
You do that.
Jenny trembles, her gaze darting from police officer to her
neighbor.
JENNY
(angrily)
My son. You need to find him.
Roberts visibly works to lose the sneer. He turns to Jenny.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
We will. First, I need some
information.
He lays a notebook on the coffee table, pauses, holding a pen
above the page.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS (CONT’D)
He's five. Right?
19.
Jenny nods. A tear rolls down her cheek.
JENNY
He was playing in the backyard. I
kept checking on him. He was just
there...and then...
She sniffles.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
What time was that?
JENNY
One-fifteen.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
Are you sure?
JENNY
I looked at the clock when I went
outside.
Her voice trails off and she stares into space. He writes in
his notebook.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Jenny and I both checked the
backyard. And the street.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
Where’s his father?
Jenny’s bottom lip trembles.
JENNY
I’m separated. His father lives in
Dresden.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
Does he know?
Jenny shakes her head.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS (CONT’D)
You need to call him.
KNOCKING. Steve lets in a Brad Pitt look-alike, OFFICER DAVE
CHARLTON, early 40’s. Roberts crosses to him brushing into
Steve’s shoulder as Steve returns to his seat.
Roberts speaks quietly to the older policeman before turning
back to Jenny.
20.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS (CONT’D)
This is Officer Charlton. He’ll be
in charge of the investigation.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Roberts, how about you check the
house, the backyard.
Roberts glares at Steve before leaving. Charlton sits in an
armchair across from Jenny. He smiles at Steve.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
So, you’re neighbors?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Yeah.
He turns back to Jenny.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
You were going to call his father?
Jenny nods. He pauses, watching her intently.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
Could he have taken him?
JENNY
No. He was glad to be rid of us.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Would he do it to get back at you?
Jenny’s head jerks, her brows wrinkle.
JENNY
I don't think so.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Call him. Tell him to come.
Jenny leaves the room.
JENNY'S KITCHEN
Clenching the receiver, Jenny punches in numbers. She closes
her eyes.
JENNY
Theresa, it’s Jenny. I need to talk
to Ray.
She presses the phone to her ear and waits.
21.
JENNY (CONT’D)
No, Ray. I’m not calling about
support.
She white knuckles the phone.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Do you have Clayton?
She leans against the wall and wipes at the tears streaming
down her face.
JENNY (CONT’D)
He was playing outside....now he’s
gone...the police are here ... The
address? It’s 107 Wortley Street,
in Scottsville.
(whispering)
Thanks, Ray.
JENNY'S LIVING ROOM
JENNY
He doesn't have him.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Is he coming?
Unable to speak, Jenny nods. She returns to the couch.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
Did he sound surprised?
JENNY
Of course, he was surprised!
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Do you have a recent photo?
Jenny takes photos out of a sideboard and hands them to him.
One picture shows Clayton wearing a white shirt with puppies
embossed on the front.
JENNY
That's the shirt he was wearing.
It's his favorite.
Her voice breaks.
JENNY (CONT’D)
He loves dogs. He had blue shorts
on today.
22.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Tell me what happened.
JENNY
He was just outside for a few
minutes.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
How long?
Jenny raises her hands in a defensive manner.
JENNY
About ten minutes.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
You didn’t need to use the
bathroom, or make a quick phone
call?
Her voice rises.
JENNY
My mother called. But I didn’t talk
long. Just a couple of minutes. I
kept watching him out the window.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Did you get distracted? Leave the
kitchen? Not check on him as
often...
JENNY
I was in the kitchen the whole
time.
Jenny wrings her hands. Her voice breaks.
JENNY (CONT’D)
The gate was open. He can't open
it. Someone took him!
Sobbing loudly, she puts her head in her hands.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Children go missing all the time.
They wander off, turn the wrong
way, get lost ... But we’ll find
him.
Roberts comes into the living room.
23.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
I've finished checking the house,
and the backyard.
Roberts shakes his head.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Take this photo downtown. Put it
in the system. Get some officers.
Expand the search. Make sure they
talk to everyone.
More tears stream down Jenny's cheeks as she watches Roberts
leave.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
Mrs. Kingsley, is there anyone who
might have taken him?
JENNY
I don't know anyone in Scottsville.
My neighbor -
She nods at Steve.
JENNY (CONT’D)
And the Sawyers down the street.
They have a new puppy.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Anyone else?
Jenny shakes her head.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
Where do you do your shopping?
Could you have met someone there?
Her brow wrinkles. It’s several seconds before she speaks.
JENNY
Stockley's General Store. But I
don't stop and talk to anyone. I
work from home doing the books for
Mr. Harrison.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
We'll check with him.
JENNY
But he wouldn't...
24.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
We need to rule out anyone who has
had contact with you, or your son.
Jenny lurches forward.
JENNY
He doesn't have his puffer!
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
His puffer?
JENNY
He has asthma. I give him Ventolin
when he has trouble breathing.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
How often does he need it?
JENNY
With rainy weather. Or if he gets a
cold.
Charlton smiles gently.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Then we'll have to find him before
he needs it.
Jenny wipes away a fresh set of tears.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
I’m going to the station. Try to
think of anyone who might have a
reason to take your son. Or someone
hanging around. Or looking
suspicious.
Charlton rises.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
We’ll find your boy. Call me when
your husband arrives.
He hands her his business card. Steve walks to the door with
him.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
Can you stay with her until he gets
here?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Sure.
25.
Steve sits with Jenny. She watches outside where police
canvass the street. She frequently glances at the wall clock.
STEVE TOWNSEND (CONT’D)
Maybe you should rest...
Jenny shakes her head.
JENNY
I should be out looking.
STEVE TOWNSEND
You need to be here when he comes
back.
JENNY
Oh, Steve, where is he?
Steve squeezes her hand.
STEVE TOWNSEND
They'll find him.
JENNY
What if they don't?
Jenny sobs. Steve holds her and lets her cry.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Will you stay? I don't want to be
alone.
Her hand touches her forehead.
JENNY (CONT’D)
I’ve got such a headache.
STEVE TOWNSEND
You go lie down. I'll stay right
here and watch for him.
Gripping the handrail, Jenny stumbles up the stairs.
CLAYTON'S BEDROOM
Jenny lies on Clayton’s bed and sobs into his pillow.
Her watch shows that fifteen minutes have passed. Jenny gets
up. She is pale, disheveled, her eyes red and puffy.
26.
JENNY'S LIVING ROOM
STEVE TOWNSEND
Did you get any sleep?
Jenny shakes her head.
STEVE TOWNSEND (CONT’D)
Can I get you anything?
JENNY
Did anyone call?
STEVE TOWNSEND
No.
JENNY
I want to be alone for a while.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Are you sure? I don't mind staying
until Ray gets here.
JENNY
He’ll be here soon.
Steve crosses to the door, stopping, he looks back.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Call me if you need anything. My
mom can come over if you want.
Jenny turns away and stares out the window. After Steve
leaves, she exits the living room.
JENNY'S KITCHEN
Jenny wanders around the kitchen.
She picks up the phone, puts it down again.
Finally, gripping the receiver she leans against the wall
dialing several times before getting the number right.
She is sobbing when the phone is answered.
JENNY
Mom, I can't find him...he's gone.
Clutching the phone, her body slides to the floor.
27.
JENNY (CONT’D)
He wouldn't be in the basement. He
hates the dark. I've checked
everywhere. The police are looking.
Jenny closes her eyes and white knuckles the phone.
JENNY (CONT’D)
I had to call them. Mom, please. I
couldn't find him. No. You don't
need to come.
Jenny wipes her palms on her jeans.
JENNY (CONT’D)
I have to go. They might by trying
to call.
Struggling to her feet, Jenny hangs up the phone and hurries
out of the kitchen.
JENNY’S BATHROOM
RETCHING. Jenny clings to the porcelain bowl for several
minutes before stumbling out of the bathroom.
JENNY'S FRONT DOOR
A car engine RUMBLES. Jenny hurries to let Officer Charlton
in. Her hopeful look turns to despair when she sees his
expression.
JENNY
You haven’t found him?
His face says it all. Jenny sways. Charlton catches her.
JENNY'S LIVING ROOM
Charlton supports her into the living room.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Are you okay?
JENNY
Okay? I'm alive. I'm breathing.
Her voice hardens.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Does that count as okay?
28.
She slumps onto the sofa, puts her head in her hands, and
sobs. Charlton sits across from her.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
The canine unit is coming. They’ll
be here shortly.
ANGRY MALE SHOUTING. Jenny starts to get up, but Charlton
motions her to stay seated.
A man, mid 20's, who looks like his free time is spent
lifting weights and brown bottles, bursts into the room. RAY
KINGSLEY.
RAY KINGSLEY
Let me through!
The men face each other. Ray ignores Charlton’s extended
hand.
RAY KINGSLEY (CONT’D)
(surly)
What's being done to find my son?
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Mr. Kingsley, please have a seat.
RAY KINGSLEY
What’s being done?
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
We have officers out looking.
RAY KINGSLEY
Is that all?
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
(clipped, commanding)
Mr. Kingsley, please. Have a seat.
Ray sits on the sofa, his fists clenched, his body tense.
There is only a quick nod to Jenny.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
We've put out a Missing Child
Alert. His picture is being
circulated to every police station
for miles.
Charlton pauses and looks from Ray to Jenny.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
If he's not found by six --
29.
JENNY
He'll be hungry.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
We’ll want to put a bulletin on the
six o’clock news.
RAY KINGSLEY
You're going to plaster our faces
all over the news!
JENNY
Ray, if it gets Clayton back ...
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
The canine unit will want a piece
of your son’s clothing. Something
he wore recently. To give the dog a
scent.
JENNY
His pajamas are under his pillow.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
I'll collect them. It might confuse
the dog if you touch them.
Charlton leaves the living room, returning with the pajamas
in a plastic bag.
KNOCKING at the front door. OFFICER MATT DENISON, mid 40s,
enters the living room. Built like a boxer, his rugged
appearance suggests an outdoorsman.
A large German Shepherd walks at his side.
OFFICER MATT DENISON
(to Jenny and Ray)
Matt Denison of the Canine Unit.
And this is Jesse.
Denison nods to Jenny and Ray then reaches down to pet the
dog's nape.
OFFICER CHARLTON
Want his pajamas?
OFFICER MATT DENISON
I'll let her sniff them, but she
works better off the last hot
scent.
30.
JENNY
He was playing in the sandbox
before ...
OFFICER MATT DENISON
Do you have the pajamas?
Charlton gives the handler the plastic bag. The dog sniffs
for a few seconds then lifts his head and looks toward the
kitchen.
OFFICER MATT DENISON (CONT’D)
Is that the way outside?
JENNY
Yes. The back door is off the
kitchen.
JENNY'S KITCHEN
Officer Denison lets Jesse lead him toward the back door.
The group follows. Denison lengthens the leash and opens the
screen door.
OFFICER MATT DENISON
Find, Jesse.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
10 -
A Scent That Ends at the Curb
EXT. JENNY’S BACKYARD - DAY
The dog crosses to the chair with Clayton’s boxing gloves.
Charlton raises his eyebrows at the sight of the punching
bag. Jenny looks embarrassed.
JENNY
I live alone.
The dog sniffs the child-size boxing gloves, then makes her
way to the sandbox.
Nose to the ground, she trots to the gate and looks up at her
handler. Denison opens the gate.
EXT. IN FRONT OF JENNY'S HOUSE - DAY
The group watches as Denison follows Jesse who sniffs her way
to the sidewalk, then turns south.
31.
EXT. JENNY’S STREET - DAY
Jesse works her way down the block, leaves the sidewalk. She
sniffs at the curb for several seconds before looking up at
her handler.
OFFICER MATT DENISON
Good job, Jesse.
Denison pats the dog, then turns shaking his head.
OFFICER MATT DENISON (CONT’D)
The scent ends here.
RAY KINGSLEY
What do you mean the scent ends
here?
OFFICER MATT DENISON
This is as far as Jesse can track
him. I think your son was taken on
foot to this point, then put into a
vehicle.
RAY
So that's it then!
OFFICER MATT DENISON
If he was taken in a vehicle
there’s nothing for the dog to
track.
RAY
Useless mutt.
JENNY
Ray.
Jenny puts out a hand toward him. He jerks away.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
11 -
The Interrogation
EXT. IN FRONT OF JENNY'S HOUSE - DAY
The group stops in front of Jenny’s house.
OFFICER MATT DENISON
Mrs. Kingsley, I’m really sorry.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
We’ll have officers check the
street again. See if anyone noticed
a vehicle parked near here.
32.
Charlton leads Jenny and Ray back to the house. When Jenny
stumbles, Ray takes her arm to support her.
Denison puts Jesse in his vehicle and drives away.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
My friend has a bloodhound. His dog
might be able to ...
RAY KINGSLEY
Damned dogs are useless. Just do
your fucking job and find him.
INT. JENNY'S LIVING ROOM - DAY
Jenny and Ray sit on either ends of the sofa. Ray wears a
surly expression.
Officer Charlton addresses Ray.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
What’s your relationship with your
son?
RAY KINGSLEY
Fine! It’s fine.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
When was the last time you saw him?
RAY KINGSLEY
A few months ago.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Any reason it’s been so long?
Ray glares at Charlton. He jerks his head at Jenny.
RAY KINGSLEY
She up and moved away.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Did she have reason to move?
RAY KINGSLEY
She’s my wife. She had no cause to
up and leave. Taking my son.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Did you come to see them? Talk to
her about going home?
33.
RAY KINGSLEY
I haven’t spoken to her since she
left.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Did you take your son to get back
at her?
RAY KINGSLEY
You pig! I didn’t take my son!
The men glare at each other.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Do you have anything to tell me,
Mr. Kingsley?
RAY KINGSLEY
Nothing. I was at work all day.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Can someone verify that?
Ray sneers at Charlton.
RAY KINGSLEY
The whole fucking shop!
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
I'll need the name and phone number
of your workplace.
RAY KINGSLEY
You gotta be fucking kidding. I
didn't take my son.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
The sooner we rule you out, the
sooner we can get on with the
investigation.
RAY KINGSLEY
Sifton’s. In Dresden. Call them.
They'll tell you I was there all
day.
Charlton nods. He turns to Jenny.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
I’m heading back to the station.
If Clayton isn't back by supper
time, we'll do a media interview
for the six o’clock news.
34.
He leaves. Jenny and Ray remain sitting at opposite ends of
the sofa.
RAY KINGSLEY
Fucking pigs! Asking if I took my
own son. I should sue them for
slander. Damned bastards.
Jenny flinches as Ray smashes his fist against the arm of the
sofa.
RAY KINGSLEY (CONT’D)
Why aren’t they out there looking
for him instead of harassing me?
Slumped on the sofa, Jenny, her face in her hands, sobs.
JENNY
Ray. Please.
RAY KINGSLEY
They just made me so angry.
Ray pulls her into his arms. She rests there for a few
seconds before pulling away.
JENNY
Thanks for coming.
RAY KINGSLEY
What do you expect? He is my son.
Jenny wipes tears off her face.
JENNY
I can’t just sit here.
She gets up and paces the room.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Want something to eat?
RAY KINGSLEY
If you wouldn’t mind. I haven’t
eaten since lunch. Can’t eat much,
though. Stomach’s a bit upset.
JENNY'S KITCHEN
Jenny puts a kettle on the stove.
35.
JENNY
(muttering to herself)
Stomach’s a bit upset, is it, Ray?
I want to throw up everything I’ve
eaten since yesterday, and your
stomach’s a bit upset!
She crosses to the backdoor and looks outside.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Crime"]
Ratings
Scene
12 -
A Child Vanishes
EXT. JENNY'S BACK PORCH - DAY
Jenny slips on her boxing gloves and punches the bag, each
punch has more force. In between the punches, she kicks the
bag.
Kettle WHISTLES. Jenny throws the boxing gloves on the chair
and heads inside.
INT. JENNY'S KITCHEN - DAY
Jenny makes coffee, tea, sandwiches. She carries a tray out
of the kitchen.
JENNY'S LIVING ROOM
Jenny places the tray on the coffee table. Ray picks up the
remote, points it at the television.
RAY KINGSLEY
Do you mind?
Jenny stares off into space. The news comes on. Turning, she
sees Clayton's picture flash across the screen.
TELEVISION NEWSMAN
Five-year-old Clayton Kingsley,
missing from his home since early
this afternoon. If you have any
information, please call this
number.
A phone number flashes across the screen.
TELEVISION NEWSMAN (CONT’D)
Clayton was wearing blue shorts and
a white shirt.
RAY KINGSLEY
Damn them! They could have given us
a warning.
36.
Jerking to her feet, Jenny rushes out of the room.
RETCHING (os).
JENNY’S BATHROOM
Jenny kneels over the toilet, retching. Ray leans over her.
RAY KINGSLEY
Are you okay?
Jenny vomits violently.
She staggers to her feet. Ray wipes her face with a wet
washcloth.
He helps her out of the bathroom.
JENNY'S LIVING ROOM
Ray pours her a cup of tea.
RAY KINGSLEY
It’s cold. I’ll make a fresh pot.
Something hot would be good for
you.
He leaves the living room, returning shortly with a fresh pot
of tea.
Jenny drinks the tea then leans back and closes her eyes.
Ray sits at the other end of the sofa, neither speaks nor
touches the other.
JENNY'S FRONT DOOR - DAY
KNOCKING at the front door. Ray rushes to answer it. Officer
Charlton is back.
RAY KINGSLEY
Have you found him?
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
We’ve had several calls since the
news release, but nothing has
panned out yet.
JENNY'S LIVING ROOM
Ray, Jenny, and Charlton sit in the living room.
37.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Have you thought of anything that
might be helpful? Anyone hanging
around? Someone with a grudge?
Jenny shakes her head.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
The National Centre for Missing
Children is checking for suspected
predators within a hundred-mile
radius.
(beat)
I want you to come to the station
tomorrow morning. Look at some
photos.
JENNY
He has to be back tonight! He's
afraid of the dark.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
I’ll have one of my deputies come
and get you. Probably sometime
after nine.
JENNY
I'll be ready.
RAY KINGSLEY
What can I do? This waiting around
is killing me.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
If we don’t find him by morning, we
have a search party organized. Come
to the Community Centre at six-
thirty.
Ray lurches forward.
RAY KINGSLEY
What about now? Tonight?
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Helicopters are searching the area
outside of town, the woods, the
farms. They’ve got infrared sensors
to pick up body heat.
He pauses before speaking again.
38.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
I want the media to interview you.
The personal touch will draw people
into the search. The more
volunteers, the better.
JENNY
No one knows us. I've only lived
here a few months.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Scottsville's a great community.
People will come out. Especially
for a missing child.
JENNY
When will the media be here?
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Within the hour. The interview
should only take a few minutes.
I’ll stay and make sure they don’t
harass you.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
13 -
The Media Storm
INT. JENNY'S LIVING ROOM - DAY
The media arrives, hoisting television cameras, tripods,
electrical cords, lights.
A whisper-thin, Prada-dressed RHONDA FLEMING, early 30’s,
made up to the nines, approaches Charlton.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
This is Rhonda Fleming of WSTO.
She extends her hand to Ray.
RHONDA FLEMING
I’m sorry about your son.
Rhonda scrutinizes the couch and chairs before sitting on the
arm of a chair. She waves to the others as to where they
should sit.
RHONDA FLEMING (CONT’D)
What can you tell me about him? I
know he’s six...
JENNY
Five. He’s five. He’ll be six
October nineteenth...
39.
RHONDA FLEMING
Yes. Yes. He has blond hair, blue
eyes, and is about four feet tall.
Jenny shakes her head.
JENNY
He’s three feet tall!
RHONDA FLEMING
He was wearing blue shorts and a
shirt with animals on it.
JENNY
A white shirt with three puppy dogs
in a basket.
Rhonda's eyes narrow.
RHONDA FLEMING
Three puppy dogs. Right.
Rhonda nods to the cameramen then crosses to the couch,
motioning Jenny to slide over.
She sits between Jenny and Ray.
The cameraman hands her a microphone.
Incandescent lights illuminate the room. Rhonda dons her
camera smile.
RHONDA FLEMING (CONT’D)
This is Rhonda Fleming from
Scottsville where five-year-old
Clayton Kingsley went missing
earlier today.
She waves her hand toward Ray, then Jenny.
RHONDA FLEMING (CONT’D)
These are his parents, Jennifer and
Raymond Kingsley.
Jenny starts as the camera pans to her.
RHONDA FLEMING (CONT’D)
Clayton has blond hair and blue
eyes. He was wearing blue shorts
and a white shirt embossed with
puppy dogs. He's four feet, sorry
three feet tall, and weighs forty
pounds.
40.
Jenny uses the back of her hand to wipe away tears. The
cameraman focuses on her for several seconds.
RHONDA FLEMING (CONT’D)
Officer Charlton? Can you tell us
anything about the investigation?
The camera scans to Officer Charlton.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
We‘re doing everything possible to
find Clayton but we are asking for
your help. If anyone has seen the
child or knows anything that might
help us, please call the hotline
number.
RHONDA FLEMING
Officer Charlton, do you think he’s
wandered off? Or do you suspect
foul play?
Jenny GASPS. Her hand goes to her mouth.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
It’s too early to say.
RHONDA FLEMING
Was it an abduction?
Charlton looks annoyed.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
As I said, at this point, we have
no reason to think that.
RHONDA FLEMING
Is there a possibility?
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Miss Fleming, abduction is always a
possibility.
Charlton turns from Rhonda to face the camera.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
We have no suspects, and no
witnesses. Please, come forward if
you have anything that might be
helpful.
A phone number flashes across the TV screen
41.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
An extended search has been
organized in case Clayton isn’t
found by morning. Anyone wishing to
help should come to the Community
Centre at six-thirty.
RHONDA FLEMING
Thank you, Officer Charlton.
The camera pans from the detective to Rhonda, Ray and Jenny.
RHONDA FLEMING (CONT’D)
Please call 1-800-541-2222 with any
information.
The camera zooms in on Jenny, Rhonda, and Ray then suddenly
the bright lights shut off putting the room in semi-darkness.
The media and detectives leave. Jenny and Ray continue to sit
unspeaking on the couch.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Crime"]
Ratings
Scene
14 -
Lost and Alone
INT. JENNY'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
The sun has set. Jenny and Ray sit in stunned silence.
RAY KINGSLEY
Do you want the TV on? To see the
news?
JENNY
I couldn't.
RAY KINGSLEY
Do you mind if I put it on?
JENNY
What's wrong with you? Our son is
missing and you want to watch TV.
Watch us make a spectacle of
ourselves.
RAY KINGSLEY
Don't make me feel like a monster.
I care about him, too.
JENNY
Well, you sure haven't shown it!
(beat)
For all I know, you could have
taken him to get back at me.
Jenny gets up, glares at Ray.
42.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Did you, Ray? Did you take him?
Anger contorts Ray’s face. He jumps off the couch and
approaches Jenny. His fists are clenched.
Jenny leans away from him but stands her ground.
RAY KINGSLEY
You bitch! No, I didn’t take him.
Jenny turns away.
Deflated, Ray’s shoulders drop and the anger drains from his
body.
JENNY
I'm tired. I’ll make up a bed for
you in the spare room. Mom is
coming tomorrow.
CLAYTON'S BEDROOM
Jenny leans on the doorframe of Clayton's bedroom. She tip-
toes inside, scanning the room - the closet, the dresser, the
toy box, the empty bed.
Stumbling to the bed, she picks up the stuffed bear that sits
propped against the pillow and hugs it.
JENNY
Oh, Frazer, where is he? Where is
our boy?
Slumping to the floor, she leans her head against the clown-
covered quilt and lets the stuffed bear absorb her tears.
Ray enters the room. He pulls Jenny to her feet and holds
her.
RAY KINGSLEY
They'll find him, Jenny. I know
they will.
Jenny wipes at her tears.
JENNY
I forgot the sheets.
RAY KINGSLEY
Never mind, I don't need them.
43.
JENNY
It might get cold.
Jenny's hand goes to her mouth.
JENNY (CONT’D)
He'll be cold, Ray. He'll need a
blanket.
RAY KINGSLEY
Leaving was a mistake. Let’s try
again. We can make it work.
Jenny pulls away, shaking her head.
JENNY
I can’t think straight. When
Clayton is home...then we can talk.
RAY KINGSLEY
I need you. I’ll change. I will.
Jenny crosses to the door.
JENNY
Not now, Ray.
She exits the bedroom.
Ray stays, picking up the stuffed bear, he looks around
Clayton’s room. He wipes a tear away.
JENNY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Still dressed, Jenny crawls into the bed and lets Ray pull
the covers over her.
RAY KINGSLEY
Do you want me to stay?
JENNY
Please, go.
He turns out the light and leaves.
CLAYTON'S BEDROOM
Entering Clayton's bedroom, Ray crosses to the bed.
He sits with his head in his hands and weeps.
44.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
15 -
Waiting for News
INT. JENNY'S BEDROOM - DAY
Jenny wakes. She is groggy, her eyes puffy and dark-circled.
She lies for several seconds before the realization hits her.
She jumps out of bed and hurries out of the room.
JENNY'S KITCHEN
Jenny grabs a card off the kitchen table and dials the phone.
JENNY
Officer Charlton, please.
POLICE RECEPTIONIST (V.O.)
He’s out right now. Can I take a
message?
JENNY
It’s Jenny Kingsley. Is there any
news?
POLICE RECEPTIONIST (V.O.)
Sorry, Mrs. Kingsley, not yet. But
half the town is out looking. I’ll
have Officer Charlton call you.
JENNY
Thanks.
Jenny drops the phone into its cradle then slumps into a
kitchen chair. She notices a note on the table.
INSERT NOTE
Gone to the Community Centre. Will
be back later to drive you to the
bus station. Ray
RAPPING. Jenny crosses to the back door. Myrtle Townsend
holds two large containers. Jenny lets her in.
MYRTLE
I came to see how you were doing.
And I brought a little something.
She places containers of muffins and cookies on the table.
JENNY
You didn't have to.
MYRTLE
I had to do something.
Myrtle shrugs.
45.
MYRTLE (CONT’D)
I guess you haven't heard anything?
Jenny shakes her head. Tears threaten.
MYRTLE (CONT’D)
Let it all out.
Myrtle pulls her into her arms.
MYRTLE (CONT’D)
Everything will be fine. You just
wait and see. They’ll have the lad
home soon.
Myrtle rocks her gently, continuing to make soothing
reassurances. Jenny lets herself cry until there are no tears
left.
MYRTLE (CONT’D)
You sit. I’ll make us a spot of
tea.
Myrtle busies herself making tea and laying out some muffins
while Jenny sits at the kitchen table. She fingers the note
Ray left on the table. Myrtle sets the teapot on the table,
squeezing Jenny's shoulder.
MYRTLE (CONT’D)
Whatever you need. Just ask.
Jenny stares out the window.
JENNY
Thanks, Myrtle. You don't know how
much that means.
Tears glisten in Jenny's eyes. She pulls a flower-embroidered
handkerchief out of her pocket and dabs her eyes.
JENNY (CONT’D)
This was my grandmother’s. I
remember her sitting in her rocking
chair -- she was always doing some
needlework project.
MYRTLE
She did a lovely job on that.
Violets are my favorite flowers.
JENNY
They were Gram’s favorite, too.
46.
Jenny sips the tea. She nibbles at a muffin before putting it
back on the plate.
MYRTLE
I bet you've hardly eaten.
Jenny puts her hand to her stomach.
JENNY
As soon as I try to eat ... I just
want to throw up.
MYRTLE
You need to keep up your strength.
JENNY
I can't.
Shrugging her shoulders, she looks at Myrtle.
JENNY (CONT’D)
I need Clayton home. He's all I’ve
got.
MYRTLE
Is anyone going to be with you
today?
JENNY
Ray, he was ... is ... my husband.
We’re separated. He’s with the
search party. And my mother --
she’s coming later.
MYRTLE
I’m glad someone will be with you.
Steve’s out looking too.
Myrtle pats her hand.
JENNY
I have to go to the police station
whenever the deputy arrives. But if
you could stay till then?
They sit at the table drinking their tea. KNOCKING at the
front door.
MYRTLE
Would you like me to get it?
Jenny has already jumped out of the chair. She looks at
Myrtle, her voice shaky.
47.
JENNY
Come with me?
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
16 -
The Familiar Face
INT. STEVE TOWNSEND’S HOUSE - DAY
Steve stands at the kitchen window. He pours a cup of coffee
while watching the police arrive at Jenny's house.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Oh, God. I hope they've found him.
Steve continues to watch out his kitchen window. He clenches
the coffee mug he is holding.
STEVE TOWNSEND (CONT’D)
(mutters to himself)
How long before the bastards are
knocking on my door?
INT. JENNY'S HOUSE - DAY
Jenny yanks the front door open, her face hopeful. Officer
Charlton is there. Behind him, media line the street.
JENNY
Have you...?
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
No, Ma’am, still no news.
Jenny lets Charlton into the house.
JENNY'S LIVING ROOM
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
We’ve canvassed the neighborhood.
Some people weren’t home and we’re
getting back to them. The search
has been expanded.
Jenny's shoulders sag.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
I came to take you to the station.
To look at some mug shots.
In the background, Myrtle gasps. Jenny, busy grabbing her
purse, doesn't notice.
48.
EXT. JENNY'S HOUSE - DAY
Jenny follows Charlton to the police car. The media rush
them. Charlton warns them back. Hovering close behind him,
Jenny follows the officer to the car.
MEDIA
Do you know who took your son?
Was it your husband?
Did you hurt him?
Did you kill him?
Where did you hide the body?
EXT/INT. POLICE CAR - DAY
Jenny slides into the back seat of the police car cowering
from the media peering through the windows and blocking the
car.
Officer Charlton backs slowly out of the driveway forcing the
media to move.
INT. POLICE STATION - INTERVIEW ROOM -DAY
Officer Charlton sits Jenny at a long table in an interview
room. There are three large black photo albums on the table.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
See if you recognize anyone. Maybe
the person who took him has been
hanging around your home, or places
you frequent.
Jenny glances at the clock. 9:15. Phones RING continuously in
the background. Jenny opens the first book of glossy black
and white photos.
JENNY
There are so many.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
We're having you look at all local
felons. Just in case you recognize
anyone.
Jenny flips through the pictures.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
I'll leave you with them.
A look of concern crosses her face.
49.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
I won't be long. I promise. Can I
get you a coffee?
JENNY
Just some water, please.
Her hands shake as she turns the pages of the first book.
Charlton returns with a bottle of water.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
How are you doing?
JENNY
Most of these people look so
normal. Not like anyone who’d take
a child.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Those books are everyone in our
system. Even an arrest for driving
impaired, or brought in for
questioning and detained.
Jenny turns the pages. She pauses, her attention caught by
something familiar. She stares at a photo. Her gaze flies to
the bottom of the page and she gasps.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
Do you recognize someone?
Jenny points to the picture.
JENNY
This looks like my neighbor, Steve.
Charlton glances at the page. He pauses as if debating
whether to speak or not.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
That happened a long time ago.
There was a misunderstanding with
his friend and his friend’s girl.
Steve unfortunately got pulled in.
He gives her a reassuring smile.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
I don’t think you have anything to
worry about. But, let me assure
you, we’ll be checking every lead
until your son is home.
50.
Jenny's finger slides off the page and she sinks into the
chair.
JENNY
I want to go home.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Can you look at a few more? It’s
important.
Jenny goes back to turning pages.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
I’ll be back shortly to take you
home.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
17 -
The Arrival
INT. JENNY'S LIVING ROOM - DAY
Ray arrives at four. Jenny rushes to greet him.
JENNY
Any news?
RAY KINGSLEY
We better get going. Your mother
won’t be happy if we’re late.
A look passes between them.
JENNY
At least she's coming.
Ray shrugs.
EXT. BUS STATION - DAY
Jenny and Ray wait on the platform outside the bus station.
RAY KINGSLEY
Don't let her get to you.
JENNY
She won’t be like that. Not now.
Ray shrugs.
RAY KINGSLEY
I'm just saying.
JENNY
She'll be fine. She has to be.
51.
Jenny rubs the back of her neck. Her posture is stiff. She
startles at the sound of an approaching bus.
They watch as passengers exit the bus.
Jenny inhales sharply as GLADYS MARTIN, (late 50’s), tightly
curled grey hair, large purple glasses, paisley jacket, and
black rayon pants, pushes through the crowd.
The woman’s cigarette-stained fingers clutch a large flowered
purse and matching rolling bag.
Jenny rushes toward her, throwing her arms around her. She
clings to her. Gladys pats her back, then disentangles
herself.
GLADYS
Hello, Ray.
Ray nods. Gladys nods back, then turns to Jenny.
GLADYS (CONT’D)
You look pale. And thin too.
JENNY
Mom, Clayton’s missing.
GLADYS
That's why I came.
JENNY
I hope the ride wasn't too bad.
GLADYS
I hate buses!
RAY KINGSLEY
The car's this way.
JENNY
How’s Dad?
GLADYS
Same as usual. Tied to his damned
oxygen tank. He wanted to come.
Told him he’d just be in the way.
JENNY
I wish he ...
GLADYS
People would be tripping over that
damned oxygen tubing.
(MORE)
52.
GLADYS (CONT’D)
Besides, he’s too weak to lug that
tank around. Call him later.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
18 -
Clash of Generations
EXT. BUS STATION PARKING LOT - DAY
Ray opens the passenger door of a 1970 red Mustang. Gladys
gets in the front seat leaving the back seat for Jenny.
INT/EXT. RAY’S CAR - DAY
Ray starts the car. Gladys examines the interior of the car.
GLADYS
Nice ride, Ray. You always did like
your cars.
Ray shoots a look at Gladys but says nothing.
GLADYS (CONT’D)
So, what are the police doing to
find my grandson?
RAY KINGSLEY
Everything they can. The media,
search parties, posters --
GLADYS
But they still haven't found him?
RAY KINGSLEY
Not yet.
Gladys snorts. Ray starts the car and pulls out of the
parking lot.
EXT. JENNY'S HOUSE - DAY
Ray parks the car in the driveway. Gladys pauses to survey
the house.
GLADYS
How can you afford this big old
house? Taking on airs again, are
you?
JENNY
Mom, the house isn’t expensive.
The owner’s in a nursing home. His
son just wanted someone who wasn’t
going to destroy the place.
53.
Gladys peers at Jenny over the rim of her glasses.
GLADYS
Are you sure there aren’t other
catches?
JENNY
There are no other catches.
GLADYS
Well, it’s a bigger house than you
need, or can afford. You always did
think you deserved better.
JENNY
Mom --
GLADYS
Waste of time you dreaming about
going off to college. Got yourself
pregnant. Now, your son, and your
husband, that’s your job.
Jenny’s shoulders stiffen. She opens her mouth to say
something but the RINGING of the phone distracts her. She
runs toward the house.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
19 -
The Ringing Phone
INT. JENNY'S KITCHEN - DAY
Jenny picks up the receiver and listens.
JENNY
No! No! I didn’t hurt him. I didn’t
kill my son. How can you say
something like that?
Ray rushes into the kitchen and grabs the phone.
RAY KINGSLEY
Who is this?
Jenny slumps against the kitchen wall.
Ray slams the phone down.
JENNY
(edging on hysteria)
Oh, Ray. They asked if I killed
him. They asked if I killed
Clayton!
Ray pulls her into his arms.
54.
RAY KINGSLEY
Damned perverts. Got nothing better
to do.
Ray looks over Jenny's shoulder. Gladys stands frozen in the
doorway as if she has just realized the seriousness of the
situation.
GLADYS
I'll make some coffee.
Jenny breaks away from Ray. Mechanically, she starts pulling
coffee and mugs out of the cupboards.
Gladys puts the kettle on the stove.
The phone RINGS. Jenny goes to answer it, but Ray shakes his
head. He answers it.
RAY KINGSLEY
Hello? No! We didn’t hurt our
child.
He slams the phone down.
The kettle WHISTLES. Gladys makes coffee and puts it on the
table. They sit silently at the kitchen table, drinking
coffee, each stealing an occasional glance at the phone,
praying it will ring, afraid it will.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
20 -
Waiting for News
INT. JENNY'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
The PHONE RINGS occasionally. Jenny startles each time but
leaves Ray to answer the calls. After one call, he comes back
into the living room.
RAY KINGSLEY
That was Charlton. No news.
Gladys rummages through her purse and pulls out a package of
cigarettes.
JENNY
Mom, we don’t smoke in the house.
GLADYS
You don’t, I do. And I’ve been
dying for one for hours.
JENNY
Clayton’s allergic to smoke.
55.
GLADYS
Well, Clayton’s not here and I need
a smoke!
Gladys puts a cigarette between her lips then looks defiantly
at Jenny. Jenny opens her mouth but before she can say
anything, Ray speaks.
RAY KINGSLEY
I need a smoke too. Gladys, why
don’t we have a look at the
backyard? Jenny’s got a real nice
garden planted - tomatoes and sweet
corn.
Taking the cigarette out of her mouth, Gladys stomps out of
the living room. Backdoor SLAMS. Jenny reaches up to massage
the back of her neck.
INT. JENNY'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Ray and Gladys return.
JENNY
Thanks, Mom.
Gladys nods. They sit in the living room, the atmosphere is
stilted. Finally, Ray gets up.
RAY KINGSLEY
I'm going to bed. The search party
starts again at 6:30.
JENNY
Would he let me come?
RAY KINGSLEY
Should be okay. Your mom would be
here if anyone called.
JENNY
Is that okay, Mom?
GLADYS.
Sure. I can watch my soaps.
Jenny looks at the clock. 10:45.
JENNY
Are you ready for bed, Mom? You can
sleep in my room. I'm shutting the
TV off.
(MORE)
56.
JENNY (CONT’D)
I can't bear to watch the news. If
they show Clayton's picture again -
Jenny's voice breaks. She gets up and shuts off the
television. Jenny walks to the stairs, Gladys follows.
INT. JENNY'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Jenny returns with a blanket and lays on the sofa.
She tosses and turns.
Getting up, she pulls back a corner of the living room
curtain. Cars and media vans line the street.
EXT. JENNY'S HOUSE - NIGHT
Jenny stands at the open front door.
JENNY
Do you know anything about my son?
Media rush her, sticking microphones in her face. Cameras
flash, questions are hurled at her.
MEDIA
Did your ex-husband take your son?
Did you do something to him?
Was it an accident?
Did your husband hurt him?
Where did you put the body?
Jenny backs up against the door, covering her face with her
hands.
JENNY
We didn't hurt him. Please. Leave
us alone.
She tries to get into the house. People press into her, hands
grab at her, media try to push into the house.
Then, Steve is there, pushing through the crowd.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Get the hell out of here!
He pulls Jenny into his arms, pushing people back.
MEDIA
Who are you? Did you have anything
to do with her son's disappearance?
57.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Go home! Or go help find her son.
He pushes Jenny inside, closing and locking the door behind
him.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
21 -
A Past Resurfacing
INT. JENNY'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Steve leads Jenny to the sofa and takes out his cell phone.
He pulls the curtains fully closed and calls the police.
EXT. JENNY'S HOUSE - NIGHT
A car arrives within minutes and a uniformed officer
threatens the spectators and media with trespassing and
harassment.
Slowly, they disperse.
INT. JENNY'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Jenny huddles on the sofa. Steve sits beside her. She lets
him pull her into his arms.
When she stops trembling, she faces him.
JENNY
I was at the police station ...
STEVE TOWNSEND
You saw my photo.
He pulls away, shifting until he faces her.
STEVE TOWNSEND (CONT’D)
It was a long time ago.
JENNY
Please. I need to know.
He leans back onto the sofa and closes his eyes for several
seconds. His voice is full of bitterness.
STEVE TOWNSEND
My best friend, Kelly, met this
girl. Cheryl was from the rich side
of town. She made a play for him.
He fell hard. She got pregnant.
Kelly wanted to marry her.
58.
The muscles on Steve’s face tighten, his fists clench and
unclench.
STEVE TOWNSEND (CONT’D)
(harshly)
He wasn't good enough for her. Or
her father.
Steve pauses, watching Jenny's reaction. She remains silent.
STEVE TOWNSEND (CONT’D)
She didn't want the baby. Gave it
up. Kelly took him. Joe Roberts
beat him up. Took us to the
station.
The clenched fists that rest on his thighs are white and
bloodless.
STEVE TOWNSEND (CONT’D)
Kelly died a few days later.
Nothing happened to Roberts.
He pauses, his face as hard as his voice.
STEVE TOWNSEND (CONT’D)
The rest is history. Bad history.
Now, if anything happens, Roberts
blames me.
He closes his eyes again.
STEVE TOWNSEND (CONT’D)
A few years ago, a child went
missing. Wandered away from his
parent's campsite.
(beat)
By the time they found him, he was
dead.
Jenny gasps.
STEVE TOWNSEND (CONT’D)
Coroner said he died of exposure.
But Roberts pulled me in. Put me
through the ringer.
He shakes his head, then meets Jenny's gaze.
STEVE TOWNSEND (CONT’D)
Jenny, I promise, I had nothing to
do with it. I was out of town at
the time. But Roberts hates me.
(MORE)
59.
STEVE TOWNSEND (CONT’D)
It won't be long before he pulls me
in again.
She leans against him and he holds her.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
22 -
Hope Crumbles
INT. JENNY'S LIVING ROOM - DAY
Jenny, still fully clothed, wakes.
She looks out the window. The street is quiet. Media and
spectators have gone.
She glances across the hall. The room is empty, Ray's
blankets neatly folded.
Picking up a photo of Clayton, she sits back on the sofa and
stares at it.
LOUD VOICES. Jenny crosses to the window and eases back the
curtains.
EXT. JENNY'S HOUSE - DAY
Media vans are back. Reporters and cameramen head toward the
house. A dark sedan pulls into the driveway.
INT. JENNY'S HOUSE - DAY
Jenny rushes to pull the door open. Officer Charlton comes
in.
JENNY
Do you have any news?
Charlton’s face is a grim mask, he pauses.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
“There is ... A child was found --
Jenny wobbles, bracing herself against the doorframe.
JENNY
(barely audible)
Clayton?
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
We’re not sure.
JENNY
But Clayton knows his name ...
60.
A strangled cry. She starts to crumple, he grabs her and
helps her to the sofa.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Tell me!
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
We’re not sure it’s Clayton. A body
was found this morning... He’s
blonde, between four and six. You
need to come. Let us know --
Jenny stumbles after him.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
23 -
Facing the Worst
INT. HOSPITAL MORGUE - DAY
Charlton leads her to the basement and through a set of metal
doors.
DOCTOR MURRAY, (50’s) white haired gentleman with a lab coat
covering operating greens, greets them.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Doctor Murray, this is Mrs.
Kingsley.
He takes her hand, his voice soft yet firm. He has done this
many times. He holds her gaze.
DOCTOR MURRAY
Can you do this?
Jenny closes her eyes, stiffening her shoulders as if
reaching somewhere deep inside her. She opens her eyes,
steeled for the worst.
JENNY
I have to know.
DOCTOR MURRAY
Is anyone with you?
Her head shakes like a limp, rag doll.
Nodding, Doctor Murray's tone becomes clinical.
DOCTOR MURRAY (CONT’D)
The child was found in the Tomac
River, just north of here, early
this morning. He drowned ... we
think ... yesterday or the day
before. We don’t have an exact time
yet.
61.
He pauses.
DOCTOR MURRAY (CONT’D)
I want to warn you. His body is
bloated ...
INT. MORGUE VIEWING ROOM - DAY
Doctor Murray leads them into a sterile room where a small
sheet covered form lays on a stainless steel table. Charlton
stands beside her.
After a quick glance at Jenny, Doctor Murray lifts an edge of
the sheet and peels it back. Jenny stares at the lifeless
face for a few seconds then twists away, shaking her head.
JENNY
It's not him. It's not Clayton.
She runs out of the room.
EXT. HOSPITAL - DAY
Jenny sits on a bench, dry heaving.
Charlton comes and sits beside her.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
I’ll take you home.
JENNY
I want to join the search party.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Are you sure you are up to it?
She faces him, her face a rigid mask.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
Let’s go join them.
SERIES OF SHOTS
- People putting up missing child posters with Clayton’s
face, Jenny and Ray are among them
- People canvassing the streets with similar flyers, Jenny
stopping anyone who tries to get by without looking at the
picture
62.
- People searching country roads, farmer’s fields, wooded
areas around the town
- Officers Charlton and Roberts lead teams of searchers,
Jenny, Ray, Steve Townsend, Mrs. Taylor, the school teacher,
Tyrell Watson, the janitor, and owners of Stockley’s General
Store are among the searchers.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
24 -
Frustration and Support
INT. JENNY'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Jenny, Ray, and Gladys sit in the living room. The television
is on in the background.
GLADYS
So the useless police haven’t found
him yet?
JENNY
Mom! Everybody is looking for him.
The police, everyone in town --
GLADYS
Like I said, the police are
useless.
RAY KINGSLEY
Gladys, they are trying.
GLADYS
Well, they ain’t doing a good job.
Jenny gets up, glares at her mother.
JENNY
Would it kill you to be positive
for once?
GLADYS
Not my job!
JENNY
Maybe it’s time you went home.
GLADYS
You kicking me out?
JENNY
You aren’t helping.
Startled, Gladys stares at Jenny, then looks to Ray. Ray’s
response is a shrug but a slight smile seems to be playing at
his lips.
63.
GLADYS
Well, damned if I’m going stay
where I’m not wanted.
Gladys gets up and storms out of the room. Behind her back,
Ray grins at Jenny.
RAY KINGSLEY
(quietly)
Proud of you, kid. That took
courage.
INT. JENNY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT - DREAM SEQUENCE
Jenny tosses and turns in her sleep.
CLAYTON (V.O.)
Mommy. Mommy, come and get me. I
don’t like the dark.
Jenny sees visions of tiny bodies, torn and bleeding,
Clayton’s face, also bloated and blue, hovers above a shallow
grave.
Her breathes rapidly, she continues to toss and turn. Her
body is tangled in the sheets.
INT. JENNY'S KITCHEN - DAY
Gladys sits at the kitchen table. Jenny comes into the room
but starts when she sees her mother’s purse and suitcase
beside the table.
GLADYS
I’m going home.
JENNY
Clayton’s still missing.
GLADYS
Nothing I can do about it
Jenny shakes her head, tears threaten.
JENNY
You could be here. For me. For
Clayton.
GLADYS
I’m going home! I’ve called a cab.
It’ll be here any minute.
64.
Jenny’s face hardens.
JENNY
Go home. You’ve never been there
for me.
Jenny storms out of the room. Gladys sits open mouthed at the
harshness in Jenny’s voice.
A car horn HONKS. Gladys, with possibly one tear in her eyes,
gathers her belongings and exits the kitchen.
INT. JENNY'S KITCHEN - DAY
KNOCKING at the back door. Jenny lets Myrtle in. She is
carrying a plate of muffins.
MYRTLE
How are you doing, dear?
Jenny shrugs. Myrtle crosses and hugs her.
MYRTLE (CONT’D)
You look like you need some sleep,
and some food. You just sit while I
make us some tea.
Myrtle starts making tea.
MYRTLE (CONT’D)
Would your mother want some?
Jenny shakes her head.
JENNY
(mechanically)
She went home.
Myrtle’s eyebrows rise and her lips purse. Jenny shrugs then
looks away.
JENNY (CONT’D)
She had business she had to deal
with.
Jenny turns, brushing a tear away.
JENNY (CONT’D)
I’m glad she’s gone.
(beat)
That’s terrible to say ... but
sometimes she’s not a kind person.
65.
A look of sadness crosses Myrtle’s face. She reaches out to
pat Jenny’s shoulder.
MYRTLE
I'm going to stay on at Steve’s for
a few days. So if you need
anything, anything at all.
JENNY
Thanks. That means a lot.
MYRTLE
Now, have a muffin.
They sit having their tea. KNOCKING. Jenny leaves the
kitchen.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
25 -
Interrogation in the Kitchen
INT. JENNY'S FRONT DOOR
Jenny opens the door. Officer Charlton stands there, stiff
and grim-faced.
JENNY
Did you find him?
Charlton shakes his head.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
I have a few questions.
MYRTLE (O.S.)
I'll be going, Dear. Call me if you
need anything.
Jenny leads Charlton toward the kitchen.
INT. JENNY'S KITCHEN
JENNY
Would you like coffee, iced tea?
Charlton sits at the kitchen table.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Whatever is easier.
Jenny puts two glasses of iced tea on the table along with
the plate of Myrtle's muffins.
Charlton bites into a muffin and takes a sip of the iced tea
before taking out his notebook.
66.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
I need to check a few things.
He takes another sip of his drink then hunts for a pen that
he places beside the notebook. Jenny has been watching him,
waiting.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
Can you tell me about your
marriage? You aren’t divorced, are
you?
JENNY
Is this really important?
(beat)
We’re separated.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
We need to know as much as we can
about anyone involved.
JENNY
Is Ray a suspect?
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Until we find Clayton, everyone is
a suspect.
Her voice rises.
JENNY
Am I a suspect, too?
Charlton face softens, he tries to smile.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
I don’t think you took him.
JENNY
But you think Ray might have.
(beat)
He was at work. He couldn't have.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
He was there ... except for his
lunch hour. Now, about your
marriage?
Jenny looks away, then faces him.
JENNY
I left a few months ago. Moved
here. We hadn’t seen him since
then.
67.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Was he angry?
JENNY
I guess.
Jenny raises her hands off the table and shrugs.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Not enough to take him. He wasn’t a
good father. I mean, he wasn’t mean
or anything.
She shrugs again.
JENNY (CONT’D)
He just wasn’t interested in being
a father.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Did he ever hurt him?
JENNY
No!
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Are you sure?
Jenny's voice turns shrill.
JENNY
Yes, I’m sure.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Does he have a temper? Or an anger
problem?
Jenny looks out the window, then back at Charlton.
JENNY
Sometimes he’d get angry.
Especially when he was drinking.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Was that often?
Jenny takes a long sip of her iced tea before answering.
JENNY
It more frequent in the last year.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Did he ever hurt you? Or Clayton?
68.
There is a pause before she answers.
JENNY
No.
Charlton looks at his notebook.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
What about last February? When
Clayton was taken to Dresden
Memorial?
Jenny's body jerks.
JENNY
What?
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Clayton was treated at the Dresden
Hospital on February eleventh last
year for a pulled elbow.
JENNY
That was an accident.
Charlton waits for her to meet his gaze.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Was it?
JENNY
Clay’s arm got stuck in the monkey
bars at the park. Ray had to get
his arm free. The elbow dislocated.
The doctor said it happens all the
time to children.
She glares at Charlton.
JENNY (CONT’D)
I was there. Ray didn’t hurt him!
Charlton closes his notebook and rises.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
That’s all I need for now.
Charlton leaves. When the front door closes, she slumps
against the back of the chair. She gets up and crosses to the
back door.
69.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Crime"]
Ratings
Scene
26 -
Accusations and Confrontation
EXT. JENNY'S BACK PORCH - DAY
The kitchen door slams behind her. Jenny grabs the boxing
gloves and shoves her hands inside. She punches and kicks the
punching bag until she is too exhausted to continue.
INT. STEVE TOWNSEND’S AUTOMOTIVE SHOP - DAY
FOOTSTEPS. Steve looks up from the car he is working on.
Robert struts into the garage.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
So this is your little shop.
STEVE TOWNSEND
What do you want?
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
I need some work on my Mustang.
What can you do for me, Townsend?
Using a rag to wipe the grease off his hands, Steve faces
Roberts.
STEVE TOWNSEND
My rates are listed in the office.
I don’t make deals. I give fifteen
percent off for seniors.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
We need to have a chat.
STEVE TOWNSEND
About what?
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
About things in general. A few
things in particular.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Like?
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
You don’t give me much respect.
Steve continues to wipe his hands with the rag. He says
nothing for several seconds.
STEVE TOWNSEND
No one says I have to like you.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
I’m taking you downtown.
70.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Why?
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
We’ll talk about that downtown.
Roberts tips his head, a smirk on his face.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS (CONT’D)
It’s about that missing boy.
Steve glares at Roberts.
STEVE TOWNSEND
I’ve already told you guys
everything I know.
Roberts’s lips curl in a sneer.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
Maybe there’s something you
neglected ... I’m sorry ... forgot
to mention.
STEVE TOWNSEND
You calling me a liar?
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
Just saying. Maybe you know more
than you told us. Maybe you even
know where he is.
Roberts crosses his arms over his puffed-out chest. His voice
taunting.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS (CONT’D)
You know about taking kids don’t
you, Townsend?
Steve lunges toward Roberts.
STEVE TOWNSEND
You son of a ...
Roberts slaps his baton against his palm.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
Come on, Townsend. I’m ready.
Steve stops inches from Roberts and glares at him. Loud
THUNK. A mountain man in a shop uniform, MIKE THOMPSON, late
40’s, stands beside a nearby van.
71.
MIKE THOMPSON
Sorry, boss. The jack slipped.
Mike picks up a three-foot-long jack and walks toward them.
MIKE THOMPSON (CONT’D)
Everything okay, boss?
Steve nods at Mike then turns back to Roberts.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Am I under arrest?
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
Done anything we should arrest you
for?
STEVE TOWNSEND
You know I haven't.
Roberts snorts.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
Then you won't mind coming down to
the station. Answering a few
questions.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Look after things, Mike.
Mike, still holding the jack in front of him, directs a
pointed look at Roberts, then turns to Steve.
MIKE THOMPSON
You take care.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Crime"]
Ratings
Scene
27 -
Under Suspicion
INT. POLICE STATION - DAY
Roberts shoves Steve toward a bench in the hallway.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
Wait there.
The bench is occupied by two ladies of the night. Steve sits,
constantly checking the clock.
POLICE STATION - DAY
Two hours have passed. Robert approaches the bench where
Steve sits.
72.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
Follow me.
INTERROGATION ROOM
Roberts motions Steve to a chair on the opposite side of a
long table. Roberts nods to the other officer, CHAD EVANS,
early 20’s.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
This is Officer Evans. He’ll be
here while I question you.
Roberts straddles a chair across from Steve. Evans tips his
head to Steve then takes the chair opposite. He places a tape
deck on the table and presses the record button.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS (CONT’D)
Where were you the morning of July
twenty-third?
STEVE TOWNSEND
At the shop working.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
And what shop is that?
STEVE TOWNSEND
You know what shop. My garage.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
The one on Main Street?
STEVE TOWNSEND
What sort of game you playing? You
know damn well where my garage is.
The same one you picked me up at
this morning.
Evans shrugs.
OFFICER EVANS
We need it for the record. The full
name and address.
Steve complies.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
So you were there all day?
STEVE TOWNSEND
I was there all morning. I came
home for lunch.
73.
Steve leans back in the chair.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
And what time would that be?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Same as most days. Twelve o’clock.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
So you were home having lunch at
that time?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Yes.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
Can anybody confirm that?
STEVE TOWNSEND
My mechanics, Mike and Dez, were
there. Mrs. Jenkins was there just
before twelve to get her Saturn.
Evans writes in his notebook.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
Tell me what happened when you came
home for lunch.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Like I told Charlton. I was eating
lunch when I heard my neighbor
screaming. I went outside. She said
her son was missing.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
That would be Mrs. Kingsley?
Steve nods.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS (CONT’D)
Did you see the boy?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Jenny said he was missing. I went
looking for him.
Roberts tips his head. He wears a smug expression.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
So, you didn’t leave the shop that
morning?
74.
STEVE TOWNSEND
No.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
Are you sure?
Steve looks away, shuffles his feet and then faces him again.
STEVE TOWNSEND
I forgot. I left for about half an
hour to pick up a car part.
Roberts leans toward Steve.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
(mockingly)
Do you usually pick up parts? Don’t
you pay employees for that?
Steve shifts position.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Dez and Mike were in the middle of
replacing a transmission, so I went
myself.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
So, you had time to go by and
snatch the kid?
Steve leaps up, shoving the table towards Roberts.
STEVE TOWNSEND
I didn’t touch the boy. And you
know it, Roberts.
Roberts sneers.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
So you say.
Steve remains standing, glaring at Roberts. Evans watches
their interaction.
OFFICER CHAD EVANS
Settle down, Townsend. We’re just
here to get the events of that day.
Right, Officer Roberts?
Waving to Roberts to move, he takes the chair and motions
Steve to sit. Roberts leans against the door, arms crossed.
OFFICER CHAD EVANS (CONT’D)
Would you like a lawyer present?
75.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Do I need one?
OFFICER CHAD EVANS
So, Townsend, am I right in saying
that your first knowledge of
Clayton Kingsley’s disappearance
was when you heard your neighbor
outside around 1:15?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Right.
OFFICER CHAD EVANS
Do you know the boy?
STEVE TOWNSEND
I’ve met him a few times. They
moved in a couple of months ago.
OFFICER CHAD EVANS
You didn’t see him earlier that
morning?
STEVE TOWNSEND
No. I didn't.
Roberts shifts noisily.
OFFICER CHAD EVANS
Would you be willing to take a lie
detector test?
STEVE TOWNSEND
I have nothing to hide.
OFFICER CHAD EVANS
We'll get that set up now.
Evans and Roberts leave.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Crime"]
Ratings
Scene
28 -
The Polygraph
INT. ROOM AT POLICE STATION - DAY
Steve sits a smaller room. A technician is set up for the
polygraph.
TECHNICIAN
Is your name Steve Townsend?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Yes.
76.
TECHNICIAN
Is your address one-twenty-five Elm
Street?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Yes.
TECHNICIAN
How old are you?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Thirty-three.
TECHNICIAN
Do you know Clayton Kingsley?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Yes.
TECHNICIAN
Did you see him July third?
STEVE TOWNSEND
No.
TECHNICIAN
Did you take him?
STEVE TOWNSEND
No.
TECHNICIAN
Did you know Kelly Taylor?
Steve’s body tenses.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Yes.
TECHNICIAN
Were you an accomplice in the
abduction of Cheryl Hubert's baby?
STEVE TOWNSEND
It wasn't an abduction! I was
helping my friend get his baby
back.
TECHNICIAN
Just yes or no.
Steve shifts his body, closing his eyes for a second before
nodding to the technician.
77.
TECHNICIAN (CONT’D)
Do you own your own business?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Yes.
TECHNICIAN
Where is it?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Ten-sixty Main Street.
TECHNICIAN
Did you take Jimmy Waters?
STEVE TOWNSEND
No!
TECHNICIAN
Did you take Clayton Kingsley?
STEVE TOWNSEND
No. I didn't!
The technician’s tone is flat and clinical.
TECHNICIAN
That’s all. You can leave now.
Steve sits stunned for several seconds while the technician
unhooks the polygraph machine. Then, without a backward
glance, he storms out of the police station.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Crime"]
Ratings
Scene
29 -
A Mother's Desperation
INT. JENNY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
The RINGING phone rouses a sleeping Jenny. She grabs for the
handset.
JENNY
Hello.
She listens for several seconds.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Who is this?
PSYCHIC (V.O.)
I've seen your son.
JENNY
Where is he? Is he okay?
78.
PSYCHIC (V.O.)
I ... had a dream ... he's in the
woods.
JENNY
Who is this?
PSYCHIC (V.O.)
My name is Zaphira VanAlton.
JENNY
Do I know you?
PSYCHIC (V.O.)
I had a dream.
Jenny closes her eyes still clutching the phone.
PSYCHIC (V.O.)
I saw him ... in the ground ...
wood over him ... it’s dark ...
lots of trees...
Tears roll down Jenny's face.
JENNY
Please ... tell me he’s okay.
PSYCHIC (V.O.)
For now ...
DIAL TONE. Jenny clutches the handset to her ear. The volume
of the DIAL Tone increases.
Jenny struggles to hang up the phone. A sudden flash
illuminates the bedroom followed by a crack of thunder.
Torrents of rain beat against the house. Jenny sobs into her
pillow.
EXT. PARK - DAY
Jenny jogs to the park. Pale and drained from lack of sleep,
she flops onto a wooden bench. Mothers watch their children
playing in the large sandbox or swings or monkey bars.
Tears cloud Jenny’s eyes. She blinks them away. More come.
She pulls a folded photo out of her pocket and approaches a
woman rocking a baby in a stroller.
JENNY
Have you seen this boy?
79.
The woman shakes her head.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Are you sure? He’s been missing for
three days now.
The woman shakes her head again, pulling the stroller closer
to her.
Jenny goes around the perimeter of the playground, showing
the photo, asking questions. No one has seen him. She turns
away, her shoulders slumped.
Something catches her attention. The back of a blond-haired
child. The blue shorts and white shirt are painfully
familiar. A woman is leading him out of the park.
Jenny runs. They are almost out of the park. Trees obstruct
her view. She runs faster. A few more feet. She reaches her
arm out --
She grabs him. He screams, struggles. Turning him around, she
freezes.
It's not Clayton.
GRANDMOTHER
What are you doing? Leave my
grandson alone!
Jenny stumbles back.
JENNY
Sorry. Sorry. I thought it was my
son. He's missing.
WOMAN
Crazy lady. Get away from us.
The woman grabs the boy’s arm and pulls him away. Frozen,
Jenny stares after them as they hurry out of the park.
Finally, she can move and just as she is turning, she sees a
familiar car.
Steve has stopped at the road. A young boy (about 10) is
getting out of his car. Hugging her chest, Jenny struggles to
breathe.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
30 -
Bar Confrontation
EXT. JENNY’S BACK PORCH - DAY
Jenny punches and kicks the punching bag. Her strikes are
becoming more coordinated and effective.
80.
INT. BAR - NIGHT
Steve and Mike sit in a booth at “Casey's Bar and Grill”.
MIKE THOMPSON
Want another?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Sure. One more.
He slams the bottle on the table and curses. Mike's eyebrows
rise.
MIKE THOMPSON
Something wrong?
Steve tips the beer bottle toward the door.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Look what a bad wind blew in.
Mike turns.
MIKE THOMPSON
Sure is a foul stench to the air
over there. You’d think Casey would
find some excuse to keep that kind
of trash out of here.
They watch as Joe Roberts sits at the bar beside an
attractive redhead and attempts to pick her up. Steve’s grin
suddenly fades.
Roberts notices them and approaches.
STEVE TOWNSEND
I think my luck just ran out.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
What are you gawking at Townsend?
Steve ignores Roberts who stands beside the booth.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS (CONT’D)
You were laughing at me, weren’t
you?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Nothing you do is of interest to
me, Roberts.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
You were staring at me.
81.
Steve slowly looks up.
STEVE TOWNSEND
I can look wherever I want. It’s a
free world ... At least in here.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
You looking for trouble, Townsend?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Just leave me alone.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
It’s a public place.
STEVE TOWNSEND
And this is my table. And I don’t
want you here.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
Is that so?
MIKE THOMPSON
I don’t want you here either.
Roberts sneers at Mike.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
Shut your trap. I’m not talking to
you.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Leave him out of this, Roberts. Now
clear off.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
What, a baby snatcher like you
giving a policeman orders?
Steve clenches his beer.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS (CONT’D)
You sure you didn’t have anything
to do with the Kingsley boy? Did
you take him for a ride, too?
STEVE TOWNSEND
What are you taking about?
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
The kid you had in your car today.
What about him?
82.
Steve lunges at Roberts, grabbing him by his shirt, he pushes
his knuckles into the cop's trachea. Roberts struggles. His
face up to Roberts, his voice low and cold as ice, Steve
spits at him.
STEVE TOWNSEND
That, for your information, was my
nephew. Now bugger off.
Steve shoves him away and sits back down taking a long chug
of his beer. The bar owner, CASEY, (late 50’s), big, burly,
no-nonsense kind of guy, approaches.
CASEY
Some sort of trouble here, boys?
STEVE TOWNSEND
Nope. Roberts just stopped by to
say hello. Now he’s saying goodbye.
Right, Roberts?
Roberts, with a hand to his throat, glares at Steve then
turns and stomps away. Casey puts his hand on Steve’s
shoulder.
CASEY
Don’t let that asshole get to you.
He’s not worth it.
Casey sits beside Steve and waves to one of the servers.
CASEY (CONT’D)
The next round’s on me, boys.
Karen, three beers over here.
Karen brings the beers. Mike grins, and grabbing one of the
bottles, tips it toward the others.
MIKE THOMPSON
Let’s drink a toast to
Scottsville’s finest. The good
ones. And let’s hope the assholes
like him get what’s coming to them.
Three bottles clink. Meanwhile, Ray Kingsley sits alone in a
back booth. There are several empty bottles in front of him.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
31 -
Trapped
EXT. JENNY'S HOUSE - NIGHT
A man watches Jenny's darkened house. Sneaking around the
back, he pushes in a basement window.
83.
INT. JENNY'S HOUSE - NIGHT
The man makes his way from the basement to the second floor.
He watches Jenny sleeping before moving on to Clayton's room.
Using a penlight, he crosses to the closet, rifling through
clothes. He grabs a sweater and a small fleece jacket off the
hangers. Noticing a stuffed bear on the bed, he takes it too.
As he turns to leave, his shoulder knocks the dresser and a
china ornament CLATTERS to the floor and SHATTERS. He stands
frozen, listening.
INT. JENNY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
FOOTSTEPS. Jenny slowly rouses.
JENNY
Ray, is that you?
Getting up, she tiptoes to the hall.
INT. JENNY'S HOUSE
The man runs out of Clayton’s room, down the hall. He heads
for the stairs. Jenny is behind him.
JENNY
Who are you? What are you doing
here?
She kicks out at him catching his lower back. He stumbles
forward. He grabs the handrail, tries desperately to keep
from tumbling down the stairs.
Jenny follows, bracing herself with the handrail. She takes
several more kicks at the man as they both make their way
down the stairs.
He makes it to the bottom of the stairs, stumbles to the
front door. Jenny is still on the stairs. He yanks open the
door, runs out. He slams the door in Jenny’s face. She pulls
on the door. It is stuck.
Genres:
["Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
32 -
Intruder and a Drunk
EXT.STREET IN FRONT OF JENNY'S HOUSE - NIGHT
The man runs down the street. He has an evident limp.
84.
INT. JENNY’S FRONT DOOR - NIGHT
Jenny pulls on the door. Finally, it opens.
EXT. STREET IN FRONT OF JENNY'S HOUSE - NIGHT
The street is empty. No man. No unknown vehicles.
INT. JENNY'S LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Jenny slumps onto the chesterfield, sobbing. She grabs the
phone, starts to dial but is interrupted.
INT. JENNY’S FRONT HALLWAY - NIGHT
SCRAPING of metal. The front door opens.
JENNY (O.S.)
Who's there?
SHUFFLING, GROANS, MUMBLING.
STEVE TOWNSEND
It’s just me. I've got Ray.
Jenny comes into the hallway.
JENNY
What’s going on?
Steve supports a drunk Ray.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Sorry. He was at “Casey’s” and had
a bit too much to drink.
JENNY
That’s an understatement.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Where do you want me to put him?
JENNY
You don’t want me to answer that
one.
Steve grins.
85.
STEVE TOWNSEND
I could just dump him on the back
porch. He won’t remember how he got
home anyway.
JENNY
The back porch sounds good.
Especially if we get more rain.
Jenny grins back at Steve.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Just put him in the family room. I
don’t care... Someone was here! a
man. He broke in ....
STEVE TOWNSEND
What are you talking about?
JENNY
He’s gone now.
She nods to Ray.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Deal with him first.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Bring me some towels. I’ll cover
the couch in case he throws up.
Steve heads off with Ray, Jenny goes toward the stairs.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
33 -
An Unwelcome Guest
INT. CLAYTON'S BEDROOM
Carrying towels, Jenny pauses to look into Clayton's room.
She sees the broken ornament and SCREAMS. Steve runs up the
stairs and comes into the room.
STEVE TOWNSEND
What's wrong?
JENNY
Someone's been here! That man, he
was in here!
STEVE TOWNSEND
I’m calling the police.
86.
INT. JENNY'S HOUSE - NIGHT
Steve and Jenny sit in the living room. Officer Charlton
arrives and checks the house.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
It looks like he came in through a
basement window.
The lock’s been pried, and it was
left open.
(beat)
I assume you didn’t leave it that
way?
JENNY
I’ve never opened the basement
windows.
Jenny leans forward, cries.
JENNY (CONT’D)
It was him! He was in Clayton’s
room.
Officer Charlton looks intense.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
We can’t be sure.
JENNY
(yelling)
It was him! I know it was.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
There’s some broken branches on the
shrubs. I couldn’t see any
footprints. I don't think he'll
come back. Just make sure all your
doors and windows are locked.
Steve nods to Charlton.
STEVE TOWNSEND
I'll check them all before I go.
Charlton leaves. Steve goes to secure the house.
Genres:
["Mystery","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
34 -
Alone in the Face of Danger
INT. JENNY'S LIVING ROOM
Jenny paces the living room. Steve comes back into the room.
87.
STEVE TOWNSEND
I've locked all the windows and the
back door. Do you want me to stay?
JENNY
I think I'll be okay.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Just call. I'll come right back.
Jenny tries to smile.
JENNY
I'll scream if I need you.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Lock the door behind me.
Steve places a hand on her shoulder, then gently touches her
cheek before going out the door.
INT. JENNY'S KITCHEN - DAY
Jenny sits at the kitchen table across from Ray.
JENNY
You have to go, Ray. I'll let you
know anything that happens.
RAY KINGSLEY
I want to stay. It's my son, too.
JENNY
You need to go.
Ray stares at Jenny for several seconds.
RAY KINGSLEY
You’ve changed.
Jenny shrugs, not looking away.
JENNY
One of us had to.
RAY KINGSLEY
I promise I’ll stay in touch. Take
this. I’ll get another one.
Ray hands her his cell phone.
88.
JENNY
I’ll let you know as soon as I hear
anything.
Ray stretches a hand toward her. She turns away. The door
SLAMS behind him.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
35 -
The Scent of Hope
INT. JENNY'S FRONT DOOR - DAY
KNOCKING. Jenny opens the door to a rugged, sun-wizened,
man. BILL CLEMENTS, late 60’s, holds a faded baseball cap in
his work-worn hands.
CLEMENTS
I’m Bill Clements, ma’am. Just got
back from a fishing trip and wanted
to help.
JENNY
The police have a command post at
the Community Centre. They can tell
you what you can do.
CLEMENTS
Dave Charlton suggested I talk to
you. He told me about the police
dog they had look for your boy.
Jenny's shoulders slump, she shakes her head and puts her
hands on the door starting to close it.
JENNY
The dog traced him as far as the
street. The police think he was
taken in a car from there.
CLEMENTS
Yes, that’s what Dave told me. But
I have Missy. She’s a Bloodhound.
He gives her a gap-toothed grin.
CLEMENTS (CONT’D)
She’s mighty good at tracking. I’d
like her to look for the boy. If
that’s all right with you.
He points to an old Ford truck parked in the driveway. A sad-
looking Bloodhound occupies the passenger seat.
JENNY
The police dogs tried.
89.
CLEMENTS
Well, you see, ma’am, Shepherds are
pretty good, but they can only
track for about eight hours. After
that, they can’t find a trail. Now,
a Bloodhound, well, they’ve been
known to find a trail a hundred
days later.
Jenny shakes her head. Clements puts up a defensive hand.
CLEMENTS (CONT’D)
I know that sounds crazy. But I’ve
been raising Bloodhounds for thirty
years now and they’re damned good
trackers.
Clements looks down, his hold on the cap shifts.
CLEMENTS (CONT’D)
Sorry, Miss, didn’t mean to curse.
I just get a bit excited where my
dogs are concerned.
JENNY
Do you really think...?
CLEMENTS
My Missy, she's one of the best.
She’s had real good success. Do you
have something of your son’s, like
pajamas, she could scent from?
Jenny nods.
JENNY
I guess it wouldn't hurt. Come in.
CLEMENTS
I'll just get Missy.
JENNY'S LIVING ROOM
Jenny puts Clayton's pajamas into the large plastic bag
Clements holds open. After Missy sniffs the contents, she
heads toward the back door.
JENNY
I can’t believe she can still find
his trail. It’s been eight days.
And, it rained the other night.
90.
CLEMENTS
Actually, the heat of the sun burns
off the scent. When it cools down,
the scent can be picked up again.
He stretches out a hand to ruffle Missy’s ears.
CLEMENTS (CONT’D)
The moisture in the morning dew, or
after a rain, helps bacteria
release the scent. The water wets
the air and makes the scent
stronger.
Jenny lost interest halfway through his spiel but she follows
him and the dog to the back door.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
36 -
Searching for Clayton
EXT. JENNY’S BACKYARD - DAY
Missy sniffs at Clayton’s boxing gloves then tracks to the
sandbox and on to the back gate. Clements opens the gate.
Jenny follows them.
EXT. STREET IN FRONT OF JENNY'S HOUSE - DAY
Missy tracks along the street, then stops at the same curb as
the police dog.
CLEMENTS
This is where the Shepherd lost the
trail?
Looking deflated, Jenny nods slowly. Clements puts Missy back
in the truck.
CLEMENTS (CONT’D)
I’ll be in touch.
INT. MARTHA HAWTHORNE'S LIVING ROOM - DAY
Martha Hawthorne sits slumped in a recliner watching the
news. She looks out the window at the street. A box filled
with letters and cards sits on her lap. She reaches for the
desk phone and dials.
MRS. HAWTHORNE
I think I might know something
about that boy. The one that went
missing.
She pauses, listening.
91.
MRS. HAWTHORNE (CONT’D)
I was sick. I didn't see the news.
Not until today. It might be
nothing. I saw a man with a blonde
boy. He was pushing him into a blue
truck.
She listens again.
MRS. HAWTHORNE (CONT’D)
I told that woman I didn't see him.
But I think it's her missing boy.
Tears roll down her cheek as she watches children playing
outside.
EXT. BILL CLEMENTS HOUSE - DAY
It’s late afternoon, the sky is clear but the ground is damp
from the recent rain. Missy sniffs the air.
CLEMENTS
Time to go, is it, girl?
Clements grabs his backpack and the bag with Clayton's
pajamas. He puts Missy in the truck.
EXT. ROAD OUTSIDE OF TOWN - DAY
Clements stops at a crossroads, gets out and puts the leash
on Missy.
CLEMENTS
Missy, find.
Missy sniffs around the area, then her tail rises, her head
drops and she heads off.
INT. DUG OUT AREA BELOW CABIN - DAY
Clayton lies on a thin woven mat. He is shivering and
coughing. A thin blanket covers his body.
YAPPING, vicious animal CRIES. The child cowers, pulls the
blanket over his head.
The YAPPING and animal CRIES stop. Clayton remains hovering
under the thin blanket.
SCUFFLING sounds come close, then PANTING, WHIMPERING.
92.
Clayton jumps as the cold nose touches his face. Trembling,
he curls into a fetal position. A wet tongue licks his face.
CLAYTON
What are you doing here?
He reaches out to pet a large black dog.
CLAYTON (CONT’D)
How did you get in here?
The dog flops beside him. Clayton curls his body into the
dog, stretching one arm over its back. He has a coughing
spasm.
Clayton and the dog fall asleep.
INT. STOCKLEY'S STORE - DAY
MRS. STOCKLEY
How you doing?
TYRELL WATSON
Fine, ma'am.
MRS. STOCKLEY
Now, this isn’t what you want. This
is the children’s Tylenol. You got
the wrong bottle. I’ll get the
right one for you.
TYRELL WATSON
That’s what I want. It’s for a sick
animal.
MRS. STOCKLEY
If you’re sure. Once you open it,
you can’t return it.
TYRELL WATSON
I won’t be returning it.
His voice is harsh. Mrs. Stockley’s smile fades.
TYRELL WATSON (CONT’D)
Mrs. Stockley, you make the best
pies. Can I have a coffee and a
slice of that blueberry?
He nods to pies behind a glass display case. Her smile
returns.
93.
MRS. STOCKLEY
Well, thank you, Tyrell. I’ll bring
it right over.
Jenny pushes a grocery cart to the checkout. She looks around
as if someone is watching her. She sees a man eating his pie
at one of the booths. He’s watching her.
He waves at her and she recognizes him as the janitor from
Clayton’s school. She waves back.
Mrs. Stockley rings up her purchases. She tips her head
toward Tyrell.
MRS. STOCKLEY (CONT’D)
You remind me of his Patty.
JENNY
Who?
MRS. STOCKLEY
His wife. She went a little crazy
while he was away in the army. She
took off with their son not long
after he came back.
She pauses.
MRS. STOCKLEY (CONT’D)
Come to think of it, the boy looked
a lot like your little one.
Jenny freezes. Gathering her purchases, she hurries out of
the store.
Genres:
["Mystery","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
37 -
A Gathering Storm
INT. LOG CABIN IN THE WOODS - DAY
Clayton wakens, shivering and coughing. The dog rouses, licks
Clayton’s face and then gets up and disappears in the
darkness.
CLAYTON
Where are you, dog? Where did you
go?
Clayton explores the dug out and finds a small tunnel where
the dog got in. He starts digging.
EXT. STOCKLEY’S STORE - DAY
Jenny gets into the car Steve loaned her and takes out her
cell phone.
94.
JENNY
I need to speak to Officer
Charlton.
POLICE RECEPTIONIST (V.O.)
He’s not here right now.
JENNY
Please! Have him call me. It’s
urgent.
Jenny watches Watson get into a rusty old blue pickup. She
makes another quick call, throwing the phone on the seat when
no one answers. She starts the car.
INT/EXT. ROAD OUTSIDE OF TOWN - DAY - TRACKING
Jenny follows Watson out of town. He turns down a narrow path
in a wooded area. She parks Steve’s car on the main road and
gets out.
EXT. WOODED AREA OUTSIDE OF TOWN - DAY
Missy leads Clements to a wooded area where a log cabin sits
in a small clearing.
Missy stops and looks up at Clements.
CLEMENTS
He's here, isn't he?
Remaining hidden in the trees, Clements pulls out his cell
phone.
INT. LOG CABIN IN THE WOODS - DAY
Light filters into the space. Clayton digs faster. Crawling
along tunnel, he pushes though to where the hole exposes
daylight.
INT. STOCKLEY'S STORE - DAY
Charlton sits at the counter having coffee and pie. Mrs.
Stockley wipes down the counter.
MRS. STOCKLEY
Odd. Always has been. His mother
had trouble having him. Never was
right.
(MORE)
95.
MRS. STOCKLEY (CONT’D)
Maybe from all those beatings her
no-good husband laid on him.
Charlton continues eating.
MRS. STOCKLEY (CONT’D)
Like today. Bought liquid Tylenol.
Insisted it was what he wanted. I
told him it was for children.
Charlton starts, the fork halfway to his mouth. He is paying
attention now.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
He bought a kid's medicine?
MRS. STOCKLEY
That's right. Said it was for a
sick animal. I don't remember him
ever having animals.
He pushes the plate away, throws money on the table, and
rises.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Sorry. I have to go.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
38 -
The Escape and the Chase
EXT. PARKING LOT STOCKLEY’S STORE - DAY
Charlton hurries out to his patrol car. He answers his
RINGING cell.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Hey, Bill, what's up.
BILL CLEMENTS (V.O.)
I think Missy found your boy.
Charlton clutches the phone, his voice raised.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Where, Bill?
BILL CLEMENTS (V.O.)
A cabin in the woods. Out past the
east side of town. You know that
loner, what's his name.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Tyrell Watson.
BILL CLEMENTS (V.O.)
That's him.
96.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Thanks, Bill.
Charlton hangs up and picks up the patrol car radio.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
I think we've found the boy. Meet
me at Tyrell Watson's place. Bring
backup.
INT/EXT. ROAD OUTSIDE OF TOWN - DAY
Steve drives along the road outside of town. He sees the car
he loaned Jenny parked on the side of the road.
He stops behind it. His phone shows a missed call from Jenny.
He tries to reach her. No answer.
EXT. ROAD OUTSIDE OF TOWN - DAY
Steve notices a narrow laneway and heads toward it.
EXT. LOG CABIN IN THE WOODS - DAY
Clayton wiggles through the hole. Outside, he checks. No one
around. He runs to the woods and hides behind the trees.
EXT. WOODED AREA - DAY
Jenny walks a hundred feet down the path. The trees open up
to a small clearing with a log cabin. A rusted blue truck is
parked in the nearby shed.
Using the trees for cover, Jenny sneaks around the shed and
slips inside.
INT. SHED - DAY
It’s dim inside but Jenny sees a large tarp in the back of
the pickup. Her hands shake as she lifts one corner. Taking a
big breath she lifts it higher.
INT. LOG CABIN IN THE WOODS - DAY
Watson lifts the trap door. The dug-out space is empty.
97.
TYRELL WATSON
You little bugger. Where the hell
are you?
He SLAMS the trap door and stomps out of the cabin.
EXT. LOG CABIN - DAY
Watson looks out at the clearing, surveys the woods, walks
around the cabin kicking at scruffy shrubs growing along the
base of the building.
TYRELL WATSON
How the fuck did you get out? You
little bugger? Shit. Shit. Shit.
He continues around the cabin stopping suddenly.
TYRELL WATSON (CONT’D)
Well, Goddamn.
Watson bends, picking up some of the freshly disturbed earth.
He shakes his head when he sees the tunnel.
TYRELL WATSON (CONT’D)
What the hell?
He looks at the woods, at his truck, then at the sky. Storm
clouds are gathering.
TYRELL WATSON (CONT’D)
Better find you soon, kid. Getting
dark. A storm's coming. Lord knows
you're afraid of both.
Searching the clearing, his gaze freezes.
TYRELL WATSON (CONT’D)
Is that where you're hiding?
He heads toward the shed.
Genres:
["Mystery","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
39 -
Tyrell's Grip Tightens
INT. SHED - DAY
FOOTFALLS behind her. Jenny turns. Something strikes her on
the back of the head. She crumples to the ground.
Tyrell Watson gapes at Jenny. The hands holding a blood-
stained tire iron tremble. His face is red and contorted in a
crazed mask.
98.
TYRELL WATSON
Oh, God. I killed her. I killed
her!
He grabs Jenny by her feet and drags her deeper into the
shed. Blood smears the dirt. He paces, wringing his hands,
shaking his head, muttering to himself.
TYRELL WATSON (CONT’D)
Oh, God. Oh, God. Shit. Shit. Shit.
He limps out of the shed.
EXT. TYRELL’S PROPERTY - DAY
Watson paces in front of the shed. He looks from the cabin to
the shed to the woods.
TYRELL WATSON
(screaming)
Why is everything going wrong? Why?
MOANING (OS). Watson stops screaming and looks toward the
shed. He still wrings his hands. A muscle in his face
twitches. His limp evident, he walks slowly to the shed.
INT. TYRELL'S SHED - DAY
Jenny MOANS. Her hand goes to the gash at the back of her
head. It comes away blood-covered. She struggles to get up.
The tremor has settled but Watson’s lips twitch as if he
enjoys watching her struggle. He taunts her.
TYRELL WATSON
Come looking for your little boy,
did you?
Jenny’s eyes flicker open, she glares at Watson.
JENNY
Do you have him?
TYRELL WATSON
Did have.
Jenny tries to get up, screams.
JENNY
What do you mean? Where is he?
99.
TYRELL WATSON
Sniveling and coughing, but he's
fine.
JENNY
I need to see him!
Tyrell grabs her. She flinches away but his fingers dig into
her shoulders. She struggles, kicks out at him.
TYRELL WATSON
Cut it out, bitch.
He jerks her to her feet. She twists away, stumbles landing
hard on the ground. He yanks her by her hair and drags her
toward the cabin.
JENNY
Let go!
He releases her hair but grabs her shoulder and shoves her
toward the cabin.
TYRELL WATSON
Get moving.
She twists away. He tightens his grip.
JENNY
You're hurting me. Let me go!
He gives her another shove.
TYRELL WATSON
Stop fighting, bitch.
JENNY
Help! Someone help me.
TYRELL WATSON
No one’s going to hear you.
She twists to face him.
JENNY (PLEADING)
Let me see Clayton. Please. Let me
take him home.
TYRELL WATSON
Can't.
Tyrell shrugs.
100.
TYRELL WATSON (CONT’D)
Didn’t like it here.
(laughing hysterically)
Now, neither of us has him.
Jenny struggles. She breaks free, punches him, and plants a
forceful kick at Watson’s thigh, then his bad leg.
Watson howls. She tries to run. He grabs her, tightens his
hold. She keeps twisting and squirming, kicking.
Genres:
["Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
40 -
A Mother's Fury
EXT. WOODS - DAY
Clayton hears his mother's voice. He peeks through the trees,
sees Watson dragging her. He runs toward her.
Clayton pounds Watson with his fists, kicks him on his bad
leg. Watson screams. Reaching out with his free hand, he
grabs for Clayton.
Watson misses, tries again. The third time, he scoops Clayton
under his arm and limps toward the cabin.
Jenny twists around, attempts to pull Clayton away.
Tyrell thrusts out his arm, knocking her to the ground.
Carrying Clayton, he hurries as fast as his limp will allow,
shoves the door open and disappears inside.
101.
Jenny scrambles to her feet, stumbles up the stairs and into
the cabin.
INT. TYRELL’S CABIN -DAY
Watson hides behind the door. When Jenny comes in, he grabs
her and kicks the door shut.
A hank of thick rope is on the counter. Letting go of
Clayton, he grabs the rope, and ties Jenny to a chair, all
the while swatting a kicking and punching Clayton out of the
way.
One of his swats knocks the child to the floor. Jenny
screams.
JENNY
Don't hurt him.
Jenny twists and turns in the chair, trying to kick out at
Watson. She turns to Clayton.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Clayton, run! Get out of here.
Tyrell finishes tying Jenny. He leans close to her ear,
caresses her bare upper arm, and speaks softly.
TYRELL WATSON
We’re going to go away. Be a real
family.
Jenny jerks away.
JENNY
I'm not going anywhere with you.
Tyrell laughs. He stands up, ignoring the boy striking at
him.
TYRELL WATSON
We'll take the kid.
Jenny continues to struggle. Tyrell grabs for Clayton,
clamping his hand around the boy's arm and twisting. Clayton
cries out.
JENNY
Don't hurt him. I'll do whatever
you want.
102.
TYRELL WATSON
What do you think, kid? Should we
take your mother with us?
CLAYTON
We're not going with you!
Tyrell lifts his hand to smack the boy.
JENNY
Please, don't hit him.
Tyrell gives Jenny a wicked smile. He laughs harshly.
TYRELL WATSON
Don't want your pretty boy hurt?
Strong winds whistle around the cabin, a loud CRACK of
thunder, rain PELTS against the windows.
The cabin door flies open, CRASHING against the cabin wall.
A flash of lightening silhouettes a large shape in the
doorway.
JENNY
Steve!
Steve advances into the cabin. Watson, his face contorted in
an evil mask, confronts him.
TYRELL WATSON
You!
STEVE TOWNSEND
Let them go.
Watson laughs.
TYRELL WATSON
They're mine!
Watson grabs one of the wooden chairs and flings it at Steve.
Steve knocks it out of the way.
Watson grabs another one, smashes it on the floor before
flinging it across the room.
Steve, ducks as shards of wood shoot across the cabin.
Clayton covering his eyes, huddles against Jenny's legs.
Watson grabs a large shovel leaning against the wall and
rushes Steve.
103.
SWOOSHING. Watson swings the shovel, knocks Steve to the
floor.
Blood pours from a large laceration on his upper arm. Steve
grabs his arm and struggles to get up.
He’s up to his knees when Watson swings the shovel again,
connecting with the back of Steve’s head.
Steve crumples to the floor, blood pours from his head and
his arm. Jenny screams.
Watson reaches under the table, groping for Clayton.
Jenny kicks at him. Clayton scrambles out of the way.
TYRELL WATSON (CONT’D)
Damn you. Get over here, kid.
CLAYTON
No!
Clayton runs across the room. Draws back his leg and kicks
Watson’s injured leg.
Watson screams, lunges for the boy. Clayton slides behind his
mother's chair.
Steve’s face ashen, his body limp, GROANS.
CLAYTON (CONT’D)
It's okay, Mom. Stay quiet.
THUNDER, a flash of lightning.
Something glints in Clayton’s hand, a knife.
He starts sawing through the twine binding her.
Steve GROANS again.
Watson crosses to him, yanks his hands behind his back.
Pulling twine out his back pocket, he wraps it around Steve’s
wrists then his feet.
TYRELL WATSON
See if you can get yourself out of
that.
He turns back to Jenny and Clayton.
TYRELL WATSON (CONT’D)
What the hell you doing, kid?
104.
Watson goes for Clayton.
Jenny kicks out, hitting Tyrell in his bad leg.
He SCREAMS His hand shoots out, slapping her.
CLAYTON
Don't hit my mom!
Jenny's chair rocks for several seconds then CRASHES back to
the floor knocking Clayton down.
The knife he was holding, SKITTERS across the room.
TYRELL WATSON
Get over here you little brat or
I’ll kill her in front of you.
Watson and Clayton scramble for the knife.
Jenny struggles to get her hands free. Her wrists bleed as
the rope cuts into her skin.
Clayton scoots out of Watson’s reach and hides under the
table.
Watson swipes out his arm, his shoulder bumps into the table.
The table totters unsteadily before settling.
A kerosene lamp flickers, wobbles, then falls over,
SHATTERING the glass. It rolls to the edge of the table.
Jenny struggles with her ties. She watches the lamp linger at
the edge of the table gasping as it rolls over the edge.
The lamp twirls, hitting Tyrell's back before smashing to the
floor.
A dot of red-yellow glows on his shirt then sparks.
Fingers of flame spread across the material.
Watson HOWLS, clawing at his back.
He stumbles out of the cabin, his back a mass of crimson
flames.
Clayton grabs the lamp and sets it back on the table.
A large circle of kerosene stains the floor, embers glow in
the wood.
105.
JENNY
Clayton. Get the knife. Cut me
free.
Clayton saws at the remaining rope.
Once free, Jenny stomps on the sparks. But already the sparks
are flames spreading across the fuel-soaked floor.
Jenny runs to Steve.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Give me the knife, Clayton.
Jenny slices viciously through the twine on Steve’s hands and
feet.
She shakes him. He MOANS
JENNY (CONT’D)
Wake up, Steve. We need to get out
of here. Clayton, help me.
They drag the unconscious Steve toward the door.
Behind them, flames race across the room, spreading to the
furniture, the curtains.
Genres:
["Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
41 -
Escape From The Flames
EXT. A LOG CABIN IN THE WOODS - NIGHT
Jenny and Clayton drag Steve down the steps and onto the wet
grass.
Jenny pulls Clayton into her lap.
Rain falls, thunder RUMBLES, lightening flashes.
The WAIL of sirens, headlights glare through the trees, an
engine ROARS. A police car skids to a stop in the laneway.
Guns drawn, Officers Dave Charlton and Joe Roberts jump out
of their vehicles in the midst of a flash of lightening.
Another police car with two officers pulls to a stop behind
them.
Jenny leaps to her feet.
JENNY
Tyrell. Tyrell took Clayton. His
shirt caught on fire. Help him.
Jenny points to where Tyrell writhes in the grass.
106.
His HOWLS pierce through the sounds of the storm.
The police officers run to help him using their jackets to
suffocate the flames.
Charlton rushes to Jenny.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Are you and the boy okay? An
ambulance is on the way.
JENNY
Steve’s hurt. He needs a doctor.
Jenny’s gaze darts to her bleeding wrists then back to face
Charlton. She nods, hugging Clayton.
JENNY (CONT’D)
We're okay.
Charlton checks Steve’s pulse, then his head wound. He shakes
Steve’s shoulder. Steve GROANS.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Steve! Wake up.
He looks at Jenny.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
His pulse is strong. That's a good
sign. But looks like you might need
some stitches.
Jenny touches her blood-matted head as if she has forgotten
her injury.
Charlton shakes Steve’s shoulder again.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
Steve, can you hear me?
Steve MOANS. Jenny kneels beside him, holding his hand.
JENNY
Steve! Please, wake up!
Another MOAN, Steve’s eyelids flicker open.
He tries to focus on Jenny’s face. It's several seconds
before he speaks.
STEVE TOWNSEND
You're okay?
107.
Jenny leans closer.
JENNY
Thank God. You're awake.
She smiles at him and laughs.
JENNY (CONT’D)
Clayton and I are fine.
STEVE TOWNSEND
Tyrell?
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
He's under arrest.
Steve sighs.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
Can you get up? We should get out
of this rain.
Charlton assists Steve to the police car. Carrying Clayton,
Jenny follows.
Behind them the cabin blazes. Amidst the pouring rain, the
roof caves in, timbers CRASH and the walls tip dangerously.
More SIRENS. An ambulance pulls into the laneway.
A flash of light splits the night sky.
Tyrell, handcuffed, walks between two policemen toward the
ambulance.
Roberts follows.
Tyrell GROANS as paramedics check the burns on his back.
The rain has stopped and Roberts’s voice can be heard clearly
in the still night.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
Tyrell Watson, you are under arrest
for the kidnapping of Clayton
Kingsley. You have the right to
remain silent ...
TYRELL
Yeah. I understand.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
Roberts, get him out of here.
108.
Roberts puts Tyrell into the ambulance before approaching
Steve.
OFFICER JOE ROBERTS
I guess I need to apologize.
Their eyes lock for several seconds. Slowly, Steve reaches
out and shakes the proffered hand.
Charlton turns to Jenny and Steve, he rubs Clayton's head.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
We need to get all of you checked
out at the hospital.
CLAYTON
I'm okay. Mommy needs sewing up.
Charlton smiles at the boy.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON
You're a pretty brave boy.
A deafening CRASH. Their attention is drawn back to the
cabin, now totally engulfed in flames, totally caved in.
Charlton turns back to Steve.
OFFICER DAVE CHARLTON (CONT’D)
Do we need another ambulance? Or
you okay in the cruiser?
Steve grins sheepishly.
STEVE TOWNSEND
I guess I do need a couple of
stitches. The cruiser is fine.
Jenny, Steve and Clayton pile into the back of the cruiser.
Jenny clutches Clayton to her chest, Steve’s arm is draped
over her shoulder.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller","Crime"]
Ratings
Scene
42 -
Clayton's Puppy Surprise
INT. JENNY'S KITCHEN - DAY
Jenny, Steve, Myrtle, and Clayton sit at the kitchen table
having a late breakfast. Everyone is smiling.
KNOCKING at the front door.
STEVE TOWNSEND
I’ll get it.
He returns a moment later. Bill Clements carries a large box.
109.
CLEMENTS
How are you guys doing?
There is a chorus of fine, good, great. Clements smiles.
CLEMENTS (CONT’D)
Well, I have something here for a
very special boy.
Clayton pats his chest.
CLAYTON
That’s me!
CLEMENTS
Then this is for you.
He places the box in front of Clayton. RUSTLING noises come
from inside. Clayton looks at his mother who nods. He jumps
off the chair and pulls back the lid.
CLAYTON
For me?
CLEMENTS
Are you sure you can look after
him?
Too excited to talk, Clayton nods several times. He’s busy
picking up and hugging a fluffy black puppy. Clements sits at
the table and joins in on the laughter and smiles.