EXT. FUNERAL HOME - NIGHT
Dark clouds swallow the full moon. Air, frigid like death.
Ash and smoke spiral from a rusty chimney of a CREMATORIUM on
a vast, desolate FUNERAL HOME in shambles near the woods.
HALEY VOLK (17), pretty, wild curls, white dress, glides out
of a creepy mansion on the remote property. Sleepwalks past a
shed and enters the woods with glazed blue eyes, in a trance.
HALEY
I have to save them... I won't let
them suffer like me.
EXT. WOODS - NIGHT
A faint rustling intensifies on trees drenched in sickly dew.
A WOMAN (40), frenzied, rushes through the dense trees. Dirty
clothes cling to her frail frame. Her hair, a tangled mess.
She glances over her shoulder, breathing heavily. Silence and
the shadows of evergreens in black mist. Her eyes dart.
Rain soaked twigs snap behind her. A loud guttural gag. She
vomits meat and bile. Wipes her face with trembling hands.
WOMAN
I should've never eaten that.
She pauses for a moment, listening to a loud pattering noise
behind her. Her eyes widen in fear at a sudden movement.
CAW! A raven swoops from its nest atop a giant sequoia tree,
croaking a gurgled warning. Distant lights amplify her fear.
The woman spots Haley at a distance. Panic on their faces
mirror each other. Haley tilts her head and steps toward her.
With a jolt, she sprints toward the lights. A workshop and
the sheriff's station appear beyond the mud road at the edge.
The moon shines as she exits the woods -- A SHINY STEEL RAZOR
CAKED WITH DRIED BLOOD -- WHIZZES past her bony neck. SLASH!
Trying to evade it, she falls backward onto the wet leaves.
She presses her hand to her neck, over a straight, precise
gash. A rugged hand collects the gushing blood as heavy rain
crashes down on her. The woman glances up in horror.
A MASKED MAN, covered in a black scarf, towers over her. The
wind whistles as he speaks in a calm, muffled voice, nodding.
MASKED MAN
This is the only pleasure I get.
The masked man cradles her neck between his arms. Horror
floods her eyes as he cracks her neck, accelerating the blood
flow. He hums a cheery melody as the blood flow slows.
MASKED MAN (CONT'D)
We give to take. We're grateful for
your sacrifice.
He lights a cigarette. Wraps a rope around her neck, forcing
a Euro Death knot. Bones crack, and the blood flow seizes.
Shoving her body into a sack, he melts into the dark, tossing
the cigarette butt as the rain washes off the bloody leaves.
Haley stands frozen behind, her vacant eyes wide with horror.
A deafening clap of thunder drowns out her visceral scream.
CUT TO BLACK.
Genres:
["Horror","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
2 -
Fractured Realities
INT. HALEY'S BEDROOM - DAY
Haley's blue eyes snap open in bed, gasping for breath. She
removes twigs and stickseeds clinging to her wet white dress.
She stares at a fallen butter knife by the door, placed at
the bottom to fall loudly and prevent her from sleepwalking.
Haley picks up the knife, staring at a photo of a twin boy
and girl on the wooden bookshelf. BANG! A loud knocking sound
erupts from the closet. She clutches her head, grimacing.
INT. FUNERAL HOME - LIVING ROOM - DAY
A chaotic gray room with a dingy couch and a cluttered floor,
devoid of religious objects or icons.
Haley crouches, ear pressed to the wall, frowning at the loud
knocking as she pounds her fist on the dark, decaying wood.
HALEY
That sound -- it's drilling into my
brain.
Gunshots and screams erupt from an old bulky TV. Thick blood
splatters across the screen. MARCY VOLK (40s), gray and
jaded, rushes in and turns the TV off.
She tosses the remote at Haley with a paralyzing stare. It
bounces off the couch and shatters on the floor.
MARCY
You sleepwalk because you watch
this crap all day -- seeing things
that aren't even real.
Haley frowns, picking up the pieces of the broken remote.
HALEY
Define real. Why did you have kids
if you can't afford meds or food?
MARCY
I'm barely playing the hand I was
dealt. Try not to die today.
Marcy scowls at Haley, reassembling the remote with extreme
focus. A distant honk blares. She peeks upstairs, shouting.
MARCY (CONT'D)
Aiden, get down here!
AIDEN VOLK (17), Haley's twin, sprints downstairs, lean and
muscular, with a patchy beard and kind eyes. Smiles at Haley
and marches to Marcy, making a cutting gesture with his hand.
AIDEN
Cutting through the tension.
Marcy's face flushes red. Haley steps closer to Aiden.
HALEY
Don't help them do shady shit.
Marcy charges at Haley, landing a stinging slap. BAM! Aiden
fidgets. Jumps in between them and shoves Marcy away.
Haley pinches her thigh, keeping a straight face as lines of
blood from cut marks appear under her dress.
MARCY
Such a rebel. Go get 'em ready.
AIDEN
Let's go before Dad blacks out.
Haley clicks the remote. TV powers on. She smirks at Marcy.
HALEY
I won't always clean up your mess.
Genres:
["Horror","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
3 -
A Grim Arrival
EXT. CREMATORIUM - DAY
Rain drills the ashy chimney as a BLACK HEARSE skids to stop.
DANNY VOLK (40s), rugged, in an old military uniform, jumps
out. He scowls at a cricket, chirping loudly, stepping on it.
Gripping his belt with a skull buckle, he honks, scanning the
woods and the lake. Marcy and Aiden rush to the hearse.
DANNY
Colder than the dead gal over here.
MARCY
The drama. Is the county gonna pay
us this time?
Danny shakes his head. Opens the backdoor of the hearse and
pulls out a cardboard coffin. Aiden freezes, peeking inside.
DANNY
Poor lady. Throat slit, bled to
death. I hope she finds peace.
MARCY
It's been a peaceful month. You
already miss the insane asylum?
Danny's lips quiver. He waves at Aiden to lift the coffin.
DANNY
Doing my bit to help unclaimed
souls find salvation.
Aiden rubs his sweaty hands, lifting the coffin. His hands
slip. The coffin hits the damp grass, and the body rolls out.
Marcy stares at the woman's face, and at Danny in shock.
Aiden glimpses the bloody, broken neck and the horror in her
bulging eyes. Danny grips his belt. Marcy grabs his hand.
DANNY (CONT'D)
Respect the dead if you wanna run
this place one day.
AIDEN
I'd rather die. I'm a goner if I
get a full ride --
MARCY
No way -- take your pills. Go!
DANNY
Let him try. If you don't get into
NYU, you'll learn butchering.
Aiden shakes his head, running into the house. Marcy rolls
out a wheelbarrow from the crematorium, frowning.
MARCY
That was a dick move. He can't take
care of himself. He needs me.
Danny lifts the body. Its head snaps as he drops it into the
wheelbarrow and rolls it into the dark, dingy crematorium.
Genres:
["Horror","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
4 -
Morning in the Dollhouse
INT. OLI AND AVA'S BEDROOM - DAY
A colorful, meticulous dollhouse sits on a table in a moldy
gray room with a bunk bed. Best-case scenario model of their
dismal life: funeral home, crematorium, and shed.
Haley strolls to the bed. Tickles OLIVER (7), who giggles on
the top bunk. He shows her a cardboard figure of a boy.
HALEY
Wake up, Oli. We're late.
AVA (7), his endearing, nonverbal twin, pulls Haley toward
the dollhouse. Haley peeks at the six figures laid out in the
dollhouse, picking up a girl. Ava flashes a proud smile.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Is this cutie supposed to be me? We
need a figure for Hayden... He was
Marcy's favorite.
Ava grabs the figure from Oli and places it in the dollhouse.
OLI
That was a long time ago. Who's
Mom's favorite now?
HALEY
(scoffs)
She loves us all equally... We're
just filling the void he left --
Haley plus Aiden equals?
Haley sighs, glancing at a cracked mirror. Oli taps his chin.
OLI
Hayden... Will we go missing like
him? Cheer me up with a Happy Meal?
Ava nods, pulling on Haley's sleeves with a gagging gesture.
HALEY
Not on my watch. If you two hurry,
I'll get you a Happy Meal.
Throwing their hands in the air, they run to the bathroom.
Haley grips two crumpled dollars from her pocket, mumbling.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Someday... If we make it out.
Haley stares at the crematorium through the lone window and
then at the dollhouse, grimacing. She grabs their ragged
uniforms and hand-me-down backpacks as they burst back out.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Don't complain during dinner again.
Oli touches his reddened neck with a bruise, wincing.
OLI
I won't. Dad really hurt me. Is he
gonna stay?
Haley nods, hugging them both as they get ready.
HALEY
Marcy is way worse. I'll protect
you, but you have to listen to me.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
5 -
Stormy Plans and Sudden Departures
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - DRIVEWAY - DAY
Gray clouds loom over Haley, Oli, and Ava, trekking up the
long dirt road. Gravel crunches behind them as Aiden runs to
catch up, panting. Sudden hail hits their skin like gunfire.
HALEY
You gonna fix Grandpa's El Camino?
I'm not a quick learner like you.
They pass a vintage car under a cedar tree, covered with a
peeling tarp. Cones, pollen, and debris cling to it.
AIDEN
You'll have it when you need it.
HALEY
I only have a week left. I'll claim
their custody and be my own runaway
driver the day we turn eighteen.
OLI
Can you teach me to drive next?
HALEY
Wait till you can reach the pedals.
Oli pouts his face. Aiden nods, smiling. Ava waves her hand,
showing her interest to learn. He sighs, facing Haley.
AIDEN
You can't just take them and run.
How'll you prove our parents are
unfit?
HALEY
Watch me... You have to be evil to
fight evil sometimes.
Haley, determined, shakes her head while caressing Oli's
neck. A loud honk blares from behind. She jumps, startled.
HALEY (CONT'D)
You're the only reason I didn't try
emancipation. If you can't help,
just stay outta my way.
The hearse rolls up. Marcy, driving, waves at them to get in.
HALEY (CONT'D)
I'm not riding in the corpse wagon.
MARCY
Get in. I'll embalm you if you
freeze to death.
HALEY
I doubt that.
Haley scoffs. Oli and Ava jump in the back. Aiden sits in the
front. The hearse pulls away, leaving Haley behind. It stops.
She frowns. Reluctantly traipses to the hearse, hopping in.
EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - DAY
A wet, rutted two-lane blacktop splits the vast barren land.
The hearse cruises through.
OLI (PRE-LAP)
Can we have veggies for dinner?
INT. HEARSE - TRAVELING - DAY
Marcy drives, staring in the rearview mirror at Oli.
MARCY
If we get paid for the body.
A grim, failing school appears through the windshield ahead.
Haley taps Marcy's arm. She jumps in shock and the hearse
screeches to a halt. Haley exits, ignoring Marcy.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
6 -
Rainy Reflections
EXT. SCHOOL - DAY
Aiden and Haley lag in the rain on the wet, broken sidewalk.
Oli and Ava dash ahead, gathering rainwater in their palms.
A car zips past them. Water splashes. They duck, covering.
AIDEN
Driving is tricky for people on the
spectrum. You can't space out.
HALEY
I'll take the risk if it saves them
from becoming us... They deserve a
real childhood, not this dark hell.
AIDEN
Stop. Dad wouldn't hurt us.
HALEY
Ask the guy whose ear Danny bit
off. Keep hiding from reality.
Aiden fidgets his fingers. Haley smacks his arm. He winces.
AIDEN
He was defending himself in that
nut house. Can you at least call
them Mom and Dad?
HALEY
Giving birth isn't parenting. I'll
break the Volk family curse. I did
not find my voice to lose it again.
Haley pats Ava's hair, holding back her tears. They reach the
decrepit school with peeling paint and broken windows.
SOPHIA ORTIZ (17), fancy, runs to Aiden. Haley's wintry smile
greets her. She stares into Aiden's eyes, fixing his hair.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Why're you in this piss ass school?
SOPHIA
My dad's only got pro bono clients.
Haley grins, embarrassed. Aiden shakes his head at Sophia.
HALEY
If you break his heart, I'll kick
your palace door down and end you.
SOPHIA
I'll never! He's the heartbreaker.
Haley hints a smile at Sophia. Aiden hugs them both.
AIDEN
You fight like sisters... Adorable.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
7 -
Dark Harvest
INT. FUNERAL HOME - KITCHEN - DAY
Marcy opens the rusty fridge. Unpaid bills fall from the top.
She grabs the lone can of blood-red pasta sauce from the
empty fridge and the last carton of cheap spaghetti, leaving.
INT. CREMATORIUM - DAY
Marcy enters, covering her nose at the smoke and foul scent
of burnt flesh, rising from two sizzling, RUSTY OVENS. Two
large red gasoline cans sit to the side.
Marcy's eyes widen as Danny holds a live rat by its tail. It
wriggles in his grasp.
MARCY
Don't! I'll throw it out.
He tosses the rat into the oven. It burns alive, screaming.
DANNY
Pesky little fucker.
He pushes a wheelbarrow filled with cut-up organs and bones
to the oven. Marcy stares at him with disgust, looking away.
MARCY
Don't open that oven around me! Why
do you enjoy cutting 'em up?
DANNY
It's therapeutic and burns faster.
MARCY
Stop acting like a sicko!
DANNY
It's pronounced psycho.
INT. PREPARATION ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Marcy enters the dark, insulated room. A Bergara hunting
rifle, saws, ropes, cleavers, and antlers adorn the walls.
A jar of skin beetles sits next to a barn lantern. Flies buzz
over pooled blood on a metal table. Danny enters, scoffing.
He catches flies in his palm, slamming them on the floor.
Marcy pulls open a huge industrial freezer and peers inside.
MARCY
We're running low. Can we try to
get on food stamps again?
DANNY
Hunting season's upon us. I'm done
begging for government handouts.
Marcy grimaces, grabbing a Ziploc bag with frozen meat.
MARCY
Remember to lock up. We don't want
anymore accidents. Haley's cunning.
DANNY
Like her mom.
Danny grins. Marcy scoffs, exiting into the torrential rain.
Genres:
["Horror","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
8 -
Dark Secrets in the Hearse
EXT. SCHOOL - DAY
Oli jumps into a puddle, leaving the elementary school with
Ava. Haley and Aiden exit the high school building.
STUDENTS murmur in fear as Marcy pulls up in the hearse.
Haley waves at Marcy, pleading with her to move the hearse.
AIDEN
Frost asked about your essay again.
HALEY
Pass. College isn't my priority.
Haley avoids Marcy's stare, opening the door. They pile in.
INT. HEARSE - DAY
Haley covers her nose, grimacing at the acrid scent of burnt
flesh and fuel. She rolls down the window urgently, gagging.
Aiden, Oli, and Ava follow her lead, holding their breaths.
HALEY
What's that smell?
MARCY
We can't afford an extra trip.
Haley glances back, sighing as she glimpses a charred body
wrapped in clear plastic on the flatbed. She stares at Marcy.
HALEY
What the hell?
MARCY
Some teen bitch burnt alive... You
could be next.
HALEY
You'll burn just the same.
Marcy scowls at Haley with a twisted smirk, driving away.
AIDEN
That's enough! You shouldn't have
picked us up like this.
Marcy frowns, ignoring him with a grin. She slams on the gas.
EXT. CREMATORIUM - DAY
Aiden, Oli, and Ava head into the house. Haley sneaks behind,
watching Danny carry the body into the crematorium. She
prowls toward it with nimble steps.
She peers through the grimy window. Steps aside to see more.
On her heels, she peeps through a hole in the window blinds.
MARCY (O.S.)
What do you think you're doing?
Haley jolts, clutching her heart. Moves away from the window.
HALEY
Oh, nothing. I need some money.
MARCY
What money? We don't know where our
next meal is coming from.
HALEY
I'm sure he'll find a way.
Haley rushes away. Marcy stares at her with suspicion.
INT. CREMATORIUM - PREPARATION ROOM - DAY
The teen corpse lies on the metal table. Danny pulls the wrap
apart with a razor. Charred head of a girl, burnt to a crisp.
DANNY
Looks like her mom did most of the
work. She's well done.
Genres:
["Thriller","Drama","Horror"]
Ratings
Scene
9 -
A Night of Shadows
INT. FUNERAL HOME - DINING ROOM - NIGHT
Well done, charred meat and bloody pasta sit on the table in
front of the family as they prepare to eat.
Haley stares at Aiden and the meat. Danny stubs his cigarette
on his plate, flicking it away. Embers fly past Oli and Ava.
He grabs the meat, devouring it with tobacco-stained teeth.
Marcy places chunks of meat on Haley's plate. The steam hits
Haley, and her head spins. Horror creeps into her eyes.
She sweats, letting out a loud, guttural gag. She rises,
unsteady, covering her mouth before bolting to the bathroom.
Pounding the table hard, Danny storms after her. Aiden jolts
up, but Marcy grabs his arm, forcing him to sit.
Oli and Ava sit at the table, frozen in horror. Marcy glares
at them, pointing upstairs. Oli peeks into the bathroom with
concern. Ava tugs on his arm, shaking her head. They leave.
INT. BATHROOM - NIGHT
Haley hovers over the toilet, retching. Danny forces open the
sliding door. He whips out his skull belt and strides in.
DANNY
Don't diss the slaughtered.
Haley's eyes widen, sitting on the white tile floor, hugging
the toilet. Danny shuts the door. His shadow looms over her.
HALEY
It's me. Please, no!
A whip of his belt slices through the air, striking her face.
Danny stomps with brute force. Haley evades his foot. It hits
the floor, shattering a tile. Aiden forces open the door.
AIDEN
Dad, stop!
INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Danny plows past Aiden, clutching his bloody belt. He grabs
Aiden's neck, shoving him up against the wall with dead eyes.
Aiden shakes Danny, who stares at him, eyes dilated. He
releases his grip, and Aiden drops to the floor, coughing.
Danny glances at the bathroom, regret etched on his face.
DANNY
Tell her I'm sorry.
Marcy peeks inside, leaving with Danny as Aiden rushes into
the bathroom. Haley lies bloody and bruised. He lifts her up.
HALEY
I saw him -- in the woods...
(snaps out of it)
Is my jaw broken, Doctor Aiden?
Haley limps upstairs with Aiden supporting her. She winces in
pain as he touches her jaw. He glances at her with concern.
AIDEN
Doctor? I'll be Danny's sequel...
Cremator Part 2. What did you see?
HALEY
Escape while you can. Make the most
of your second chance. It's not our
fault our parents are who they are.
AIDEN
Come with me to NYU. I need you.
HALEY
Not as much as Ava and Oli. Imagine
if he has a fit like that. I saw it
in his eyes. He'd kill them.
AIDEN
I'll do anything for you...
A glimmer of hope flashes in her eyes as Haley peeks at him.
HALEY
Help me believe I have a way out.
EXT. HIGHWAY - DAY
The slick, winding blacktop stretches empty under a glum sky.
The hearse trundles along as a solitary funeral procession. A
drizzle hits the windshield, and the wipers flick on.
INT. HEARSE - DAY
Aiden sits behind the wheel, his eyes focused ahead. Haley
sits beside him, fidgeting and tapping on the parking brake.
HALEY
And this is the brake?
AIDEN
Pull the parking brake only during
emergencies. It's broken anyway.
HALEY
Don't talk down to me. I'm not
dumb.
AIDEN
But you act like it sometimes. It
pisses me off.
HALEY
I've got something that'll hella
piss you off. Did you smell it?
(Aiden stares, confused)
Dinner was burnt like that dead
girl. Don't brush it off this time.
Aiden sighs. His face flushes red, gripping the wheel.
AIDEN
She just overcooked it.
HALEY
Why do we only eat meat?
AIDEN
Because hunting is free.
Aiden's breath quickens, lowering the window.
HALEY
I don't know what he hunts. Why's
the freezer in the kill room?
Haley scoffs, smacking Aiden. He clenches his teeth. Like a
maniac, he stomps on the gas as the cold air hits him.
AIDEN
Stop with your crazy conspiracy --
Spit fizzes from his mouth. A violent shudder rattles him.
Haley shakes his shoulder as the speedometer climbs.
HALEY
Watch out!
The hearse rattles chaotically, propelling toward the abyss.
Haley glances down at the craters below in horror. She yanks
the parking brake in a panic. The hearse spins wildly.
Loud honks blare from the cars behind them. Tires squeal. The
hearse stops horizontally in the middle of the highway.
Haley leans in and turns the car off. She removes Aiden's
seatbelt and pounds his back. He jolts awake. She sighs in
relief and steps out.
EXT. HIGHWAY - CONTINUOUS
Haley raises her hand to the many drivers behind her in cars
with hazard lights flashing.
HALEY
Sorry, he had a seizure.
AIDEN (O.S.)
They don't need my medical history.
Drivers give her a thumbs-up. The hazard lights flicker off.
HALEY
Move over. What the --? You haven't
had a seizure in over ten years.
Aiden, glum, slides into the passenger seat. Haley jumps into
the driver's seat. He nods as she adjusts the mirrors.
HALEY (CONT'D)
I'm finding you a doctor.
The hearse jerks to a bumpy start, speeding away with a jolt.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
11 -
Cherries and Consequences
INT. FUNERAL HOME - LIVING ROOM - DAY
Danny drinks on the couch next to a dim lantern, clicking the
remote. Crushed Rainier beer cans litter the messy floor. Oli
bounces into the room with a faded baseball and glove.
OLI
Thanks for getting me this, Dad.
Wanna play catch?
DANNY
Some other time, kiddo. I promise.
Oli ambles toward Danny with caution, sitting on the couch.
Danny raises his hand to pat his hair but stops midway.
OLI
You okay? Why do you drink so much?
Danny stares at him with glazed eyes, letting out a sigh.
DANNY
I'll never be okay... Go play.
Pouting his lips, Oli stomps out with slumped shoulders.
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - PORCH - DAY
Oli sits next to Ava on the front steps, lost in a distant
gaze. He tugs on her arm. She rises, grabbing the ball.
Ava tosses the ball. It goes over Oli's head, rolling next to
a tall, menacing plant choked with red and brown cherries.
OLI
Have you ever had a cherry?
Ava shakes her head, walking to him. Oli grabs the ball.
OLI (CONT'D)
Me neither.
The ominous plant looms large over Oli's frame. He leans in,
plucks a few red and brown cherries. Shows his hands to Ava.
OLI (CONT'D)
Red one or brown one?
Ava hesitates, grabbing a red one. Stares at it in her palm.
OLI (CONT'D)
Let's taste it together. One...
The hearse rumbles down the driveway. Haley slams the brake.
Oli and Ava share a pensive look as Ava squeezes the cherry.
OLI (CONT'D)
Two...
Aiden and Haley step out of the hearse. They bump fists.
AIDEN
Not a word about the seizure, or
mom will never let me go.
HALEY
Or that I drive like a pro.
Haley winks. Aiden ambles along. Her gaze lands on Oli. Her
eyes widen. She bursts into a violent sprint toward him.
OLI
Three...
As the cherries touch their lips -- Haley reaches them just
in time, slapping them out of their hands.
Haley glares at Oli, who avoids eye contact.
HALEY
What's wrong with you, Oli?
OLI
What? I want to taste fruit.
HALEY
Didn't Marcy warn you about this
plant a hundred times?
OLI
Didn't you say don't listen to her?
HALEY
Oli... This is the death cherry.
You know what death means?
Oli nods. Ava points to the crematorium, her head held low.
HALEY (CONT'D)
If you eat it, you'll go numb, lose
your movement and...
Haley makes a slicing motion across her neck with her finger.
Oli and Ava's eyes widen. Haley uproots the plant, grunting.
INT. FUNERAL HOME - LIVING ROOM - DAY
Haley stares at Danny, hurling an empty beer can at him.
HALEY
Why did you plant the death cherry?
DANNY
Figured it's an easy way to end my
-- Sorry, I blacked out again.
HALEY
You've almost killed me twice now.
Third time's a charm. Get it done.
Danny's stony face contorts with a fleeting glimpse of guilt.
DANNY
I'm just -- trying to cope.
HALEY
Try harder. You can't keep blaming
PTSD forever... Where's she at?
Haley looks around, frustrated. Danny scowls at her.
DANNY
Her old parole officer called. Some
paperwork.
HALEY
Why -- after so many years?
Danny scoffs, crushing a beer can in his hand.
Genres:
["Drama","Family","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
12 -
Confronting the Past
INT. PAROLE OFFICER'S HOME - DAY
A vacuum whirrs in a messy room. Marcy cleans a dusty photo
of a couple next to another. VIV: Loving Wife, 1980 - 2015.
MARCY
She wouldn't want you living like
this. Why can't you move on?
NEIL (50), plump, tough yet kind, sits on a dingy couch,
picking up a red folder with urgency.
NEIL
You're ready to move on?
MARCY
It's different. He's not dead.
NEIL
He's dead inside. Rotten! What's
your fascination with broken men?
MARCY
It felt good to be wanted by broken
men -- like you. You don't know
what he's been through to judge.
Neil jolts up, opening the red folder. Danny's rap sheet and
mugshots fall to the floor. He holds up a DNA test request
form. Marcy's face pales as Neil picks up the documents.
NEIL
You had no right to hide it from
me... You got one week! The court
will side with me over two felons.
Marcy sneers. Gets in his face, head-butting him.
MARCY
You'll rot in prison for misconduct
and abuse if I speak up... Stop
digging. I'll never leave Danny.
Neil presses some cash into Marcy's hand, shaking his head.
NEIL
You're blaming me? Maybe you needed
them to feel normal again... I'm
asking nicely. Let me be a part of
their lives. I want to meet them.
MARCY
Why the sudden change of heart? Are
you dying, too?
Neil grimaces. Marcy's face pales. She stashes the cash and
hands him a photo. He glances at Oli and Ava's smiling faces.
MARCY (CONT'D)
They're not yours. Please, if you
pursue this, it wouldn't end well
for you or them. Don't contact me!
Marcy rushes out. Neil peeks at their innocent faces again.
He places the photo next to his late wife's picture.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
13 -
Tensions and Promises
INT. HIGH SCHOOL - CAFETERIA - DAY
Bustling with students eating lunch. Haley, Aiden, and Sophia
share a table. Sophia splits her sandwich for them.
Haley sticks a fork in her salad, glancing at the chocolate
milk and apple resting on Sophia's tray with unease.
AIDEN
It's embarrassing you're feeding a
grown man. I need to make money.
HALEY
They'll kill you if they find out
you're donating plasma. It's too --
A BOY from their class walks up to Haley, interrupting them.
BOY
Haley, wanna hang out after class?
HALEY
You want nothing to do with me. Go
ask some nice, normal girl out.
Haley shakes her head. The boy scratches his head and leaves.
AIDEN SOPHIA
He didn't ask you to have his (rolls her eyes at Aiden)
babies, just a date. Don't mind him. Just be you.
Sophia leans closer to Haley with a reassuring nod.
HALEY
Babies? I won't pass on my fucked
up genes to a poor child.
She scoffs and grabs the chocolate milk and apple, leaving.
INT. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL - CAFETERIA - DAY
Haley rushes to Oli and Ava, sitting next to two glasses of
water. Oli smiles, shooting a finger gun at her. Ava waves.
HALEY
Look what I got. Fruit.
She places the chocolate milk and the apple on the table. Oli
removes the cap and hands the milk to Ava.
Haley grabs the two dollars and heads to the vending machine.
She grabs an M&M bag and popcorn, stepping to the microwave.
Sound of corn popping. POP! POP! Then it stops. Haley tears
open the M&Ms. About to pop one into her mouth, she stops.
DING! The microwave opens. Steam from the bag hits her face.
She drops the M&Ms inside the piping hot popcorn bag. Shaking
it, she heads back to Oli and Ava with a proud smile.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Homemade M&M popcorn while we wait
for that Happy Meal.
OLI
Don't make us wait too long.
Oli raises his pinky. Haley hides her unease, pinky promising
him with a sad nod. Ava watches on with a hopeful smile.
Genres:
["Drama","Dark Comedy"]
Ratings
Scene
14 -
Innocence Shattered
INT. FUNERAL HOME - DINING ROOM - DAY
The sun shines on Oli and Ava, sitting on an open window,
eyes wide with wonder, watching a BABY DEER chew and ransack
a leafy bush. Haley stands in the middle, behind them.
OLI
Come here, buddy. We're friendly.
Haley whistles at it gently, while patting Oli's hair.
HALEY
See those tiny antlers? He's a
yearling. About to be an adult
soon, just like us.
OLI
Can we keep him? We can name him
Woody. Feed him popcorn and leaves.
HALEY
He's a wild animal. We want him to
roam the world freely, don't we?
The deer tilts its head, strolling closer. Oli sticks his
hand out, leaning out of the window, inviting him closer.
OLI
I think I can pet him.
Ava grins with joy. The deer blinks at them. The crematorium
door creaks open. Haley's eyes widen, shooing the deer away.
The deer's ears perk up. It moves closer in peaceful silence.
BANG! A deafening gunshot pierces the yearling's skull.
The deer's blood and guts splatter onto Oli's face and
extended hand. THUD! Its lifeless corpse hits the ground.
Haley, in shock, covers both their eyes with her hands. Oli
covers his face, bawling. Ava whimpers, looking away.
Danny marches out of the crematorium with a rifle slung over
his shoulder, wearing a nonchalant, cold smirk.
HALEY
That bullet could've hit us!
DANNY
Bull's-eye! I'm still a great shot.
HALEY
(mumbles)
Point it at your head.
Danny plods to the deer. Drags its body into the crematorium.
Its blood paves a gruesome red trail across the gravel.
Ava weeps as the door of the crematorium shuts. Haley holds
Oli and Ava's hands, consoling them. They head upstairs.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller","Horror"]
Ratings
Scene
15 -
Nightmare at the Funeral Home
INT. HALEY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Cloaked in darkness. Branches rustle outside the lone window.
Knocking sounds erupt from the closet. Another loud KNOCK!
Haley stirs awake in bed. Her blue eyes, devoid of warmth.
She steps to the door, where a Turkish Eye hangs. Her foot
catches the butter knife before falling as the door opens.
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - NIGHT
Haley steps through the front door. Her bare foot touches the
cold gravel, strewn with uneven stones and twigs. She winces.
As she strolls, sinister red vines with sharp thorns tangle
around her feet, scraping violently against her skin.
Tiny crimson droplets trickle down her soles as she glides
into the crematorium through the ajar iron door.
INT. CREMATORIUM - PREPARATION ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Haley steps on a nail, wincing in pain as her eyes widen.
Danny stands by the table in the dim light with his saw. It
whirrs, cutting through chunks of meat with precision. Marcy
sits atop the freezer, snacking and watching him work.
Haley's face floods with horror, watching Danny cut another
piece of meat, handing it to Marcy with pride.
DANNY
Filet mignon right there.
Haley panics, stepping closer. Marcy jolts up, nudging Danny.
The whirring stops. They plod toward her with bloody hands.
She collapses. Danny catches her before she hits the ground.
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - CONTINUOUS
Danny carries Haley in his arms, her eyes closed and her arms
hanging limp like a corpse. Marcy taps his arm, fidgeting.
DANNY
She's not gonna remember a thing.
Haley lies frozen, battling the overwhelming urge to flee.
The headlights of an ancient Crown Victoria flicker on. Marcy
jolts, startled. Danny stares at the light, squinting.
SHERIFF WAYLON (40s), a buff family man wearing an outlaw
cowboy hat, steps out. Glances at Haley, gripping his pistol.
WAYLON
Put her down, Danny! I've given you
enough chances.
DANNY
She was sleepwalking. I'll be back.
Danny carries Haley toward the front door. Marcy stays back.
Waylon stares at Marcy's hands covered in blood as he removes
his hat. He glances at the open crematorium door and strides
toward it. Marcy dashes ahead of him, shutting the door.
MARCY
Things we do to keep a family
alive. We were gutting a deer.
WAYLON
We found a woman's blood and DNA in
the woods, just a week after he's
out. Suspicious, don't you think?
MARCY
Is it the wolves again? Are we in
any danger?
Marcy fidgets. Waylon lights a cigarette.
WAYLON
Wolves don't smoke Lucky Strike.
MARCY
Half the country does. Don't waste
gas chasing a butt. Get some sleep.
WAYLON
Don't Volk mean wolf? Russian?
Marcy nods. Waylon grips his pistol, pointing his hat at her.
WAYLON (CONT'D)
If I hear another illegal gunshot,
I'ma tear this place inside out.
Waylon strides to his cruiser. Slides behind the wheel and
drives away. Marcy clenches her teeth, shaking her head.
INT. HALEY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Danny places Haley in the bed. He stares at her, nodding. He
heads to the door. Turns around, glancing at her again. He
exits, creaking the door shut. Haley jolts up in a panic.
The door bursts open again. A dark shadow looms in the
hallway. Haley's pulse quickens as she covers herself under
the blanket in fear. The blanket is ripped off her face.
She stares in horror. Ava glances at her, climbing into the
bed and cuddling with her. A determination washes over Haley.
HALEY
I need to get you and Oli out!
Ava nods, making a monstrous face. She tugs on Haley's arm,
pointing her fingers at the closet. Haley shakes her head.
HALEY (CONT'D)
What monster...? I won't go into
that closet.
Ava grimaces. Haley hugs her tightly, kissing her head.
Genres:
["Horror","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
16 -
Toxic Desires
INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Marcy nervously downs a shot as Danny strides downstairs.
DANNY
What did Waylon want? He's obsessed
with me after that traffic stop.
MARCY
You're getting sloppy. He found the
woman's blood. Lay low -- or stop.
Danny winks, scooping her up, and heads to their bedroom.
INT. MARCY AND DANNY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Blood-red lamps dimly light the messy room; shadows flicker.
Clamps and torture devices are scattered on the dresser.
Marcy and Danny lie in bed on a rumpled, stained bedsheet.
MARCY
You can't lure homeless people with
food, not with Waylon tailing us.
DANNY
I'm sure someone will show up.
BAM! Marcy bitchslaps his face.
MARCY
Quiet! You inbred fuck!
Danny growls as she rips his shirt open. Deep scars, burns,
and uneven stitches mar his body. She kisses each mark.
Her lips trail lower. Danny's face darkens as she unzips his
jeans. He stomps on her, rising from the bed.
MARCY (CONT'D)
Taliban really did a number on you!
Danny's jeans drop, revealing surgical remnants of a eunuch.
He drops to the floor on his knees, dejected.
MARCY (CONT'D)
I know what you deserve.
She reaches for a leather strap-on with a giant male organ.
Danny, on his knees with head held low, feels Marcy thrust it
in from behind. Harder and harder. He grunts like a madman.
Marcy's eyes glint in the red light. She smiles as she revels
inflicting pain on Danny. His body shakes, climaxing.
He falls into her lap, weeping like a broken man.
INT. HALEY'S BEDROOM - DAY
Haley stands next to the bookshelf, searching through books.
Some twenty-dollar bills fall to the floor from an open book.
INT. AIDEN'S BEDROOM - DAY
Aiden opens the door. Haley stands in the hallway, fidgeting.
She hands him the money. Smacks his arm as he counts it.
HALEY
Fix the damn car. I'm outta here!
AIDEN
This isn't enough. Can I donate --
HALEY
Fine! Figure it out. I woke up
during sleepwalking... I was right.
AIDEN
About what? What did you see?
HALEY
You won't believe me. I don't want
Ava and Oli to end up as a missing
person statistic like Hayden.
INT. LIVING ROOM - DAY
Haley rushes downstairs, marching to the front door. Marcy
rushes and slams the door shut, locking it.
MARCY
What? It's Saturday.
HALEY
To the library. I need to research.
MARCY
Yeah, right! Sit your ass down.
Marcy points to the dining table. Oli and Ava sit for lunch.
INT. FUNERAL HOME - DINING ROOM - DAY
Haley sits at the table next to Oli and Ava. She smirks at
Marcy, pointing to the green beans, meat, and rice.
HALEY
Green beans, wow! Looks like the
parole officer came through.
Haley grabs the beans. Marcy dumps the meat onto her plate.
MARCY
Be thankful your Dad hunts for us.
Why did you name the damn deer?
QUICK FLASH
WHACK! A cleaver plunges through flesh and bone of the deer.
Blood bursts into Danny's eyes. He grunts. WHACK!
BACK TO SCENE
Haley pushes the plate away in disgust and confusion.
HALEY
This is deer meat? That's a relief.
I'm a vegetarian from today.
Ava nods at Oli, staring at the meat. Oli taps Marcy in fear.
OLI
Can we be vegetarians, too? All of
our friends eat lots of veggies.
Marcy charges toward Haley, grabbing her hair. She winces.
MARCY
I'll shove it down your throat.
HALEY
You're not in prison anymore.
MARCY
Look how skinny they are. They need
protein to grow up and be healthy.
HALEY
Your logic is as flawed as you are.
Haley scoffs, shaking her head. Oli grabs a piece of meat and
places one on Ava's plate. Oli chews, spitting out the meat.
OLI
Why's it so pink and chewy?
Marcy frowns, cutting up the meat for Oli. He winks at Haley.
She makes a run for the door before Marcy can see or react.
HALEY (O.S.)
Be back in thirty.
Marcy rises, scowling at Haley as she opens the front door.
INT. HIGH SCHOOL - LIBRARY - DAY
Haley grabs a chair by an old, lone computer. She reduces the
screen brightness and opens two incognito windows.
Types "Cannibalism" and "Minor guardianship in Washington."
Graphic images and articles flood the screen. She grimaces.
- A bearded monk bites into a femur bone, holding skulls.
- A plane crash in the Himalayas led to cannibalism.
Haley clicks on the article, staring at the crashed military
jet. Zooms in on "Taste of human flesh." Mild, with no sharp
taste, like game and pork. She swallows hard, fidgeting.
She clicks print on WA.GOV and the printer beeps to life. She
deletes the history and grabs the prints and a pen, leaving.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller","Family"]
Ratings
Scene
18 -
Desperate Measures
INT. SOPHIA'S HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - DAY
Warm light from chic chandeliers paints a soft glow on high-
end furniture and an electric fireplace. The doorbell chimes.
Sophia opens the door, welcoming Haley with a sad smile.
SOPHIA
Why didn't you tell me? I can help.
(glances upstairs)
Dad, your favorite client is here.
Haley grimaces. GABRIEL ORTIZ (40s), chubby, steps in with a
sad smile. Sophia leaves hesitantly, shaking her head.
Haley sits on the couch with him, handing him the adoption
forms. He flips through the pages, reading the contents.
GABRIEL
It looks good, but time's ticking.
HALEY
He shot a deer five feet from Oli's
face... Can I go to Sheriff Waylon?
Gabriel shakes his head, staring at Haley's bruised jaw.
GABRIEL
Not now. Social services could take
them, then it's a big hassle. Stick
to our plan, wait a few days. It's
much easier once you're eighteen.
HALEY
I was okay to wait when it was just
Marcy, but we need a new plan with
his early release.
GABRIEL
Why did he reopen the funeral home,
years after Mr. Volk's death?
HALEY
It was so sudden. Ruined Christmas
forever. You don't wanna know why.
Haley sweats, hiding her angst. She stares at the floor.
GABRIEL
I do... They've been in and out of
prison. It'll help, but you have to
find evidence of abuse or horrific
living conditions.
HALEY
I can't. I'll take them and run.
GABRIEL
Ever seen an amber alert? You'll
watch them grow up from prison.
Haley grips her head, pacing. Gabriel grimaces.
HALEY
Please help me. I can't lose them.
GABRIEL
You have two days to schedule the
hearing on your birthday... Got it?
HALEY
I'll try... You know any doctors?
Gabriel stares at her with concern, questioning.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
19 -
Aiden's Hospital Journey
INT. HOSPITAL - BLOOD BANK - DAY
Aiden sits in a bright room next to a bag of blood hanging on
a stand. A NURSE removes an intravenous needle from his arm.
NURSE
Hydrate well and no heavy lifting.
Aiden flexes his biceps with a smile.
AIDEN
Thanks, I'll be back in two weeks.
HALEY (O.S.)
No, he won't.
Haley marches in. Aiden rises and they step out together.
INT. HOSPITAL - RADIOLOGY LAB - DAY
A bright room with a giant scanner, lights, and monitors.
DR. DAVID GAINES (40s), silver fox, serious, hands Aiden a
cup containing a bloody liquid. Haley sits beside him.
DR. DAVID
Only because Gabriel asked.
HALEY AIDEN
We appreciate it... Iodinated contrast agent?
DR. DAVID
You did your research. Impressive.
AIDEN
I want to be a neurologist... To
help people like me.
Aiden gulps it down. Haley walks to the CT scanner with him.
Aiden enters the CT scanner's flatbed. She holds his hand.
Dr. David gestures for her to wait outside. She reluctantly
releases his hand and leaves as he presses the red button.
Scanner swallows Aiden whole. The bright light hits his face.
Genres:
["Drama","Family","Medical"]
Ratings
Scene
20 -
A Fragile Hope
INT. DR. DAVID'S OFFICE - LATER
Aiden blinks, fidgeting in the chair. Dr. David points to the
bright screen with grayscale images of a brain with bulges.
DR. DAVID
Why didn't you do yearly checkups?
AIDEN
My parents can't afford food. I was
in remission and had no symptoms.
DR. DAVID
This is neglect. How can they --?
I'll refer you to social services.
AIDEN
No! They'll take my kid siblings...
Can I be an organ donor if it's a
tumor?
Dr. David shakes his head, scribbling a prescription. Aiden's
hand trembles as he receives it.
AIDEN (CONT'D)
Just wanted to know how much of a
footprint I can leave before I...
DR. DAVID
Don't give up. It might be benign.
You can if the tumor hasn't spread,
but we can't use your plasma.
AIDEN
I was counting on that money to --
DR. DAVID
I'm sorry. We'll use it for the
bloodwork. Come see me next week.
Avoid stress or it could get worse.
Aiden sighs, rising, stepping out with heavy footsteps.
INT. HOSPITAL - WAITING AREA - CONTINUOUS
Haley waits by the door. Aiden greets her with a fake smile.
HALEY
All good, right?
AIDEN
All good. Great... Let's go. We'll
collect my blood money later.
Aiden, teary-eyed, pulls Haley into a hug. Her eyes widen.
She nods fondly, walking toward the red exit sign with him.
Genres:
["Drama","Family","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
21 -
Confronting Shadows
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - NIGHT
The wind whistles, turning a metal chimney cover loudly.
Moonlight seeps into a window as eerie rustling intensifies.
INT. HALEY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
A loud knocking sound startles Haley awake. She stares at the
closet, stepping toward it with nimble steps. Her trembling,
sweaty palm grips the lock. She hesitates, opening it.
HALEY
I'm not afraid anymore...
QUICK FLASH
The closet door opens. BABY HALEY (7) lies tied up with her
hands bound behind her back. Danny's shadow towers over her
quivering face. Haley screams, closing her eyes as he shouts.
DANNY
Why're you mute? Speak up! Speak!
BACK TO SCENE
CLOSET
Pitch dark inside. Haley lets out a deep sigh, stepping in.
She pulls on a metal string. CLICK. A dim light flickers on.
An empty closet with a huge wooden dresser covering the wall.
Haley grunts as she struggles to push the dresser.
The floor beneath it is covered in termites and thick dust,
as if it has remained in place forever.
Haley brushes the cobwebs off the wall, revealing a square
opening leading to the attic. She shudders in panic. Unhooks
the clamp and the door creaks open into darkness.
CRAWLSPACE
Haley places one leg inside, then the other. A smell of decay
wafts from vermin-infested frames and rat feces on the floor.
She crawls through the tight, slanted L-shaped attic space.
Giant fire ants crawl on her. She winces at an ant bite.
She crawls to the middle of the L, making a turn. A red light
flickers on, revealing the other side. A wall of skulls
flashes. Danny sits in the middle of it, humming a lullaby.
A gasp escapes Haley as the light turns off. She covers her
mouth in disbelief, shaking as the red light flashes again.
DANNY
I crave the quiet, but you didn't
deserve it, kiddo.
Danny tilts his head toward Haley. She panics, crawling back
as fast as she can.
The sound of wood creaking grows louder as Danny crawls
toward her at an extreme pace, mumbling.
Her gaze lands on the wooden roof panels, covered with dried
bloodstains. Gasping, she crawls back into the closet.
CLOSET
Haley locks the door to the crawlspace. Turns the light off.
Loud creaking nears the door. It stops. Haley's breaths
quicken as she peeks through a hole into the crawlspace.
CRAWLSPACE
A BOY'S SKULL! Danny lies on his back, holding it like a
ventriloquist puppet. His hand barely fits in its cavity.
Danny stares into the closet. BANG! He pounds on the door.
INT. HALEY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Haley sprints to her bed, covering herself with the blanket.
Danny's off-rhythm hum grows louder as the door opens. BANG!
The butter knife drops onto the wooden floor. Haley shudders.
Danny's slow boot steps near her as she holds her breath. The
bed creaks as he sits next to her, and the humming stops. His
hand reaches for her blanket, slow and deliberate.
Haley shuts her eyes, silently praying. Touching the blanket,
Danny retracts his arm, flashing an evil grin.
DANNY
I'll handle you just like your
mom... Sleep tight, baby.
Danny pats the blanket and leaves. Haley exhales, whimpering.
Genres:
["Horror","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
22 -
Dark Secrets and Cannibalistic Threats
INT. CREMATORIUM - DAY
Bright sunlight seeps in through the open metal door. Inside,
Danny, hunched over, paints the rusty oven doors blood-red.
DANNY
(shouts)
Almost done. Be there in a minute.
INT. FUNERAL HOME - LIVING ROOM - DAY
Haley leans on the front door, peeking into the crematorium.
Assured that no one is around, she runs to the wooden drawer.
Opens it in a panic. A thick cloud of dust swirls. Sneezes,
covering her mouth. Her eyes dart, reviewing the documents.
Haley gasps at an old, yellowed paper. She folds it into her
pocket. Looks up, thanking the heavens.
Three firm knocks on the door. Haley jolts, startled. Slams
the drawer closed and marches to the front door, frowning.
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - PORCH - DAY
Neil turns around with a half-smile, cleaning cobwebs off the
porch. Haley casts a fearful glance at the holstered Glock on
his gray khakis and his red sedan parked in the driveway.
HALEY
Natural death or murder, sir?
NEIL
What? I'm Neil. I was your Mom's --
HALEY
Doing house calls now? Don't get
your head blown off.
Haley peeks at a raven tearing the grass, digging out a worm.
NEIL
Is she okay? Are Oli and Ava here?
HALEY
She's a criminal. Why do you care?
NEIL
(uneasy)
She just did what any mother would
have done in that situation.
HALEY
How many times did she stab that
guard? I was there.
Haley scoffs, stabbing the air. Neil shakes his head.
NEIL
If she didn't steal those meds...
Aiden wouldn't be alive today.
HALEY
She's not a victim like you think.
Go before Danny sees you.
NEIL
I'm not afraid for me. I know what
you're up against... I wanna help.
He hands her his card: Neil Agnello. Unsure, she accepts it.
NEIL (CONT'D)
I looked into your family's past. I
think Marcy was forced into this.
HALEY
What do you mean, forced?
Haley squints, confused. Neil hesitates, grimacing.
NEIL
She was just a kid, naive, trusted
the wrong people. She grew up in an
abusive home in the South... Danny,
he's from there, too. They're --
HALEY
Cannibals! Save us!
Neil stares at Haley as his face pales, dumbfounded. She nods
with a nervous tic. Glances at the crematorium in horror.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Watch out!
BAM! Danny's rifle stock pummels Neil's face. Blood sprays.
Haley screams at Danny as Neil tumbles down the patio stairs.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Stop!
Danny shoves her, and she falls. He jumps over the stairs.
Lands on top of Neil on the ground, recovering from the fall.
Danny yanks Neil up by his collar. BAM! He punches his face
in with a clenched fist. Neil covers, but the punches land.
DANNY
(smirks, twitchy)
I let her be with you out of pity.
Showing up at my house? Bad idea!
Haley rises, watching Danny pummel Neil. She runs to them.
Danny raises his fist off Neil's swollen face. His veins pop.
About to land the final blow on Neil, already half dead. BAM!
Haley slaps Danny's head from behind. He winces in pain.
Neil reaches for his Glock. Aims it at Danny's face. POP!
POP! Danny drops to the brick-paved yard.
He grabs his ears, wincing. Checks his bloody hand from the
bullet wound. A piece of his nicked left ear hangs loose.
Marcy rushes out of the house. Stares at Neil on the floor in
shock, shaking her head. He peeks at her, struggling to sit.
MARCY
If you come near my family again,
you'll regret it... Leave us alone.
Danny grunts, charging at Neil. Marcy's arm shields him.
Neil, bloody and defeated, sits up, holstering the Glock.
NEIL
I'm leaving... I just wanted to see
my ki --
Haley stares at him in shock -- BANG! A loud gunshot blows
Neil's neck apart. Blood gushes as his head snaps. His body
sits still, eyes wide, and plunges to the ground with a thud.
Aiden bursts out through the front door in a panic, startled.
Marcy screams, collapsing to the ground, crying.
MARCY
No... Why do you -- take everyone
from my life?
Danny stares at Haley. Drops the rifle, gripping her throat.
DANNY
Tattle on me again. I'll bury you.
Or burn you in the oven. You pick.
Haley weeps, crumpling Neil's card in her hand, struggling.
Aiden steps forward, gripping Danny's arm.
Danny glares at Aiden, dropping Haley to the ground. He grabs
Neil's leg, pulling him into the crematorium.
Neil's phone drops to the ground from his pocket. Aiden runs
to the new trail of blood next to the deer's and picks it up.
Aiden follows Danny. He moves aside, hiding as Danny steps
out of the crematorium with a shovel. He sneaks inside.
INT. CREMATORIUM - CONTINUOUS
Aiden crouches next to Neil's bloody body on a plastic sheet.
He grabs Neil's hand. Presses the index finger on the phone.
Nothing. Then the thumb. It unlocks. He pumps his fist.
Danny rushes in, agitated. Aiden moves, shivering in panic as
he hides behind a wall. Danny scans, stepping toward Aiden.
Aiden holds his breath. Danny, on the other side, mere inches
away. Steps toward Aiden, who sweats, frozen in fear. Danny
grabs the shovel and the wheelbarrow, rolling it out.
DANNY (O.S.)
Dinner is served.
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - PATIO - NIGHT
Danny shuts a corroded BBQ grill, gripping a meat tray. Waves
at Haley and Aiden, staring at him from an open window.
INT. OLI AND AVA'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Haley sighs, watching Oli and Ava play with figures in the
dollhouse. Aiden grips her shoulder, trying to console her.
AIDEN
It's like we're trapped in a waking
nightmare with no escape.
HALEY
It was real. I felt his soul leave.
He died trying to save me...
AIDEN
We need to tell Sheriff Waylon!
HALEY
Ava and Oli won't survive foster
home like we did.
Aiden fidgets, staring at Haley closing the window blinds.
HALEY (CONT'D)
I'll stop him, I have to... I wanna
know if he'll smirk like he did
when he's -- slaughtered.
INT. FUNERAL HOME - DINING ROOM - NIGHT
The family eats barbecued meat and rice sit on the table.
Danny peeks at Marcy's swollen face next to Aiden.
AIDEN
I hope he's in a better place.
Aiden eats. Haley stares at Marcy, who erupts with rage.
MARCY
Wanna go to a better place? Leave!
For all I've given you ungrateful
fucks, all I get back is heartache.
Marcy rises with her plate. It drops from her trembling hand,
shattering. Danny picks up the pieces, grinning at Marcy.
DANNY
You didn't like the taste?
Haley whispers to Aiden as they go upstairs with Oli and Ava.
HALEY
You just ate Neil.
Aiden's eyes widen in horror, staring at Haley. He exhales.
AIDEN
Don't say things like that. You'll
give me a seizure.
Haley shakes her head, listening to an engine growl. VROOM!
Genres:
["Thriller","Horror","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
23 -
Ashes of Ambition
INT. NEIL'S SEDAN - DAY
Danny drives. Loud sirens and red and blue lights flash in
the rearview mirror. He glares, gripping his throw knife.
Takes the foot off the gas. Sheriff's cruiser zips past him.
He pulls off the highway and parks the car behind a tree.
Danny wipes his fingerprints off the steering wheel, gear
shaft, and the door. He exits with a cigarette on his lips.
INT. FUNERAL HOME - DINING ROOM - DAY
Danny strides in, lighting a cigarette with a steel lighter.
Tosses the mail to Marcy, speaking on the phone at the table.
MARCY
(into phone)
Stick the scholarship up your ass!
Marcy fidgets, hanging up. Danny grabs a chair opposite her.
Marcy stares at an opened NYU admission letter on the table.
DANNY
It's fully paid. You sure?
MARCY
He can go to Udub or Wazzu.
DANNY
Did he even apply there?
MARCY
Stop acting like a fucking saint. I
can't lose him, too.
BAM! Danny slaps her. Her head hits the table.
DANNY
He's not Hayden... It wasn't your
fault -- depending on who you ask.
Marcy pauses, tears streaming down her face, flushed red. She
screams. Pounces onto him, dropping him to the floor. She
mounts his chest. Pummels his face to a pulp, weeping.
MARCY
Take it back now! I don't know how
my baby snuck into that oven...
Danny pushes her off him, lying on the ground, bleeding.
DANNY
All I did was push the red button.
Marcy grabs his lighter. It ignites. She dangles the NYU
letter next to the flame, teasingly bringing the flame to it.
Aiden's dream burns in her hand. She stares at the red flame,
swallowing the letter. She palms the ashes from the table.
The door opens as Haley, Oli, and Ava head upstairs. Aiden
enters the dining room. Glances at Danny lying on the floor.
AIDEN
What's going on here?
MARCY
Showing him what it's like on the
other side.
Aiden shakes his head, crinkling his nose, and sniffing.
AIDEN
What's that burnt smell?
MARCY
Nothing important.
Marcy stares at the ashes in her hand, hiding them.
AIDEN
NYU might call. I gave them your
number.
MARCY
I'll come running if they do.
Aiden helps Danny up into the chair and heads upstairs. He
sits slumped in the chair. Marcy glances at Aiden fondly.
MARCY (CONT'D)
Such a sweet boy. I can never let
him leave.
DANNY
And I thought I was the sadist.
Danny flashes an evil smirk as Marcy blows the ashes away.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
24 -
Shadows at Gray Lake
EXT. GRAY LAKE - SHORELINE - DAY
Haley and Aiden walk along the gray water's edge. They sit on
a rock by the water. The woods spread out behind them.
They watch Oli and Ava play. Aiden sketches Ava's portrait on
a sheet with a pencil as she skips a stone across the water.
It makes ripples. Oli cheers her on, clapping and whistling.
Haley untangles a fishing line. The scent of damp earth hits
Aiden as worms squirm in his hand. He hands her the bait.
AIDEN
We all find our way back into dirt.
HALEY
Not if Danny and Marcy have a say
in it. Don't be so dark.
Haley glances at his face, pulling on the patchy beard.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Clean up that beard. I rented you a
suit for the graduation. We'll be
twinning in blue.
AIDEN
What's the point?
Aiden flashes a sad smile. Haley's face hardens.
HALEY
I was so close to finding proof if
it wasn't for Danny. I'm going in
tonight. It's our way out.
AIDEN
Is that why you made me buy this?
Aiden hands her a UV black light. Click. Her face glows as
she hooks a worm on the line, launching it into the lake.
AIDEN (CONT'D)
Let's see what you catch.
The fishing line jerks with a bite. Haley gasps, yanking it.
HALEY
Nothing I hope. I don't wanna hurt
anything or anyone.
Oli and Ava run to them as a silver trout wiggles, thrashing.
Haley stares into its eyes. She unhooks the fish and drops it
into the water with a splash. Her eyes dart in fear.
HALEY (CONT'D)
I feel someone lurking. Let's go.
Haley grabs the fishing line and they rush toward the hearse.
INT. CRAWLSPACE - DUSK
Sunlight seeps onto a rifle through a window. Danny crouches,
watching Haley and Aiden at the lake through its scope.
He rises, dismantling the rifle. Peeks at the wall of skulls.
Some are polished, others have cuts and carvings.
Danny inserts film rolls in an old projector. Clicks a button
repeatedly with a proud grin. A red light flashes, projecting
dead bodies and people in their final moments onto the wall.
He removes photos of tens of Afghan men and women, each with
an eye nailed to the wall like bullet holes. He tosses all
the skulls into the wheelbarrow, pushing it to the side door.
Genres:
["Thriller","Drama","Horror"]
Ratings
Scene
25 -
A Dangerous Escape
EXT. AUTO WORKSHOP - YARD - DUSK
Faded vintage cars litter the yard of an old school workshop.
Haley stops the hearse in front of it. Aiden counts the money
next to her. Oli and Ava sit behind. Haley revs the hearse.
HALEY
Get out. Marcy is gonna kill me.
Aiden shakes his head, stepping out. BASTIAN (40s, honest)
strides up to them with a friendly smile.
AIDEN
Only my li'l sister Haley or I will
pick up the El Camino.
HALEY
Li'l by two minutes. Can you add a
li'l gas? Don't wanna be stranded.
Bastian nods. Grabs a gas can, filling gas in the hearse.
BASTIAN
Rough life, huh? Those animals!
Haley waves, driving away. Aiden hands Bastian a wad of cash.
BASTIAN (CONT'D)
This won't even cover my son's
insulin... Let's go pick her up?
Bastian sighs, counting the cash. He jumps into the tow
truck. Aiden fidgets, grimacing.
AIDEN
I swear we'll pay you in full. I'll
just run through the woods.
Aiden waves as the tow truck pulls away. He grabs a sim card
from his pocket. He opens Neil's phone and replaces the sim.
He grabs a red, sticky resin from the lone pine tree and
dashes to the Sheriff's station, scanning the surroundings.
EXT. SHERIFF'S STATION - DUSK
Aiden stealthily plods to the parked Crown Victoria in front.
Sticks the sim on the driver's door handle with the resin. He
yanks the handle. An alarm blares as he sprints to the woods.
Waylon steps out, gun drawn, moving toward the cruiser. Grabs
the door handle, staring at the sticky sim stuck to his palm.
EXT. WOODS - NIGHT
Aiden disappears between the dense trees. Sunlight fades, and
black mist swirls. He shivers in the cold.
Strange rustling noises echo from the trees. His eyes dart,
spotting a sturdy raven's nest atop the giant sequoia tree.
He writes something on a red Post-It, places it and the phone
into a Ziploc bag. He leans into the trunk of the tree. His
arm reaches into the tunnel, hiding the phone inside it.
Exhaling hard, he focuses on the dim path, exiting the woods.
Genres:
["Thriller","Drama","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
26 -
Dark Secrets Unveiled
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - NIGHT
Aiden sprints toward the car. Removes the debris-laden tarp.
A FOREST GREEN EL CAMINO shines in the bright headlights of
the tow truck pulling in.
Danny steps closer, smoking, watching Bastian lower the tow
bed in front of the El Camino. He grabs Aiden's arm.
DANNY
Where's he taking that junk?
Aiden hesitates, nodding at Bastian, who hooks the El Camino.
Danny scowls as the car ascends onto the tow truck.
DANNY (CONT'D)
Crush it. Wish I burnt that old
shit with my dad in it.
Ignoring Danny, Bastian jumps into the truck and drives away.
DANNY (CONT'D)
You're lucky we're so mellow after
the fucked-up childhood we had.
AIDEN
Who's we? Tell me more. You never
talk about your childhood.
Taken aback, Danny blows the smoke in his face, rushing away.
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - NIGHT
Red and blue lights flash as the Sheriff's cruiser pulls up.
Waylon steps out, heading up the porch with familiarity. His
hand grips the pistol as he pounds on the front door.
WAYLON
I warned you about those gunshots!
Danny, come on out!
Haley opens the door. Marcy pushes her aside, tapping on the
doorbell, frowning at Waylon with raised hands.
MARCY
Where are your manners?
WAYLON
That's rich comin' from you...
MARCY
He's in the woods, hunting rabbits.
QUICK FLASH - WOODS
Danny crouches wide eyed in the shadows of a blurry path. A
swift hand movement and a throw knife pierces a HIKER's neck.
BACK TO SCENE
WAYLON
(checks his watch)
At this hour?
MARCY
These woods are an extension of
him. Like the back of his hand.
WAYLON
Can I come in?
Marcy shakes her head, sweating. Holds her hand out.
MARCY
Did you forget the warrant?
WAYLON
I have probable cause. We found a
missin' officer's car a mile away.
This was his last known location.
Neil Agnello, ring a bell?
Marcy hides her shock. Waylon gestures for Haley to come to
the side. Marcy scowls at her with a "Don't you dare!" stare.
WAYLON (CONT'D)
Got an anonymous tip about physical
abuse. I'ma ask you again. You in
any danger?
Haley's breaths quicken as Waylon stares at her. She scoffs,
peeking behind the door through the corners of her eyes.
HALEY
What? No! Must be some prank call.
WAYLON
You sure? You have rights.
HALEY
We're good. Seriously.
Haley nods. Waylon shakes his head, unconvinced. He peeks at
a shadow behind the door. Marcy moves to cover it.
WAYLON
Say hi to Danny for me.
MARCY
Say it yourself. A little louder.
The woods hear everything.
WAYLON
I'll greet him. Real soon.
Marcy and Haley step inside. The front door closes.
INT. FUNERAL HOME - LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Danny stands behind the door with his arm wrapped around
Oli's chest. His straight razor pressed against Oli's neck.
He swipes the razor in the air across his tiny neck, nodding.
DANNY
Obedient... I wasn't bluffing.
Haley steps to Danny and forces his hand away from Oli. He
weeps, burying his face into her arms.
HALEY
Let's get outta here.
INT. OLI AND AVA'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Haley tucks Oli in bed, wiping his tears. Ava stands next to
them, concerned. Haley kisses her cheek and leaves.
INT. CRAWLSPACE - NIGHT
Haley crawls in toward the middle of the L-shaped space. Her
breath quickens. She winces at a nail scraping her foot.
The UV flashlight flickers on. She covers her nose, staring
at a bottle of bleach and a can of paint with a brush in it.
Points the flashlight at the fresh white paint on the walls.
Points at the roof. Bloodstains scrubbed clean. She frowns.
HALEY
Fuck, I'm too late.
KNOCK! Haley gasps, staring at a huge metal duct pipe with
hot air. KNOCK! From a different spot as the pressure moves
the air around. She frowns, clapping her head in disbelief.
INT. CREMATORIUM - NIGHT
Danny stands next to a mountain of skulls in the wheelbarrow.
Tosses them into the ovens with urgency, using both hands.
DANNY
I don't like the food in the psych
ward. See you in hell, fellas.
He slams the door and presses the red button, grinning.
Genres:
["Thriller","Drama","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
27 -
Confrontation in the Counselor's Office
INT. SCHOOL - HALLWAY - DAY
Haley strolls along. TARIQ FROST (30s), the loud, blunt, but
genuine guidance counselor taps her on her arm.
FROST
Come with me. Now!
HALEY
Does that usually work on women?
INT. FROST'S OFFICE - DAY
Certificates hang on the wall and reports strewn across the
table. Frost sits, staring at Haley, who sits opposite him.
FROST
So, cannibalism, huh?
HALEY
Spying on teenage girls, huh?
FROST
I have alerts set. School shootings
'n all. I had to inform your moms.
HALEY
You did what? Did you tell her
about the legal guardianship?
FROST
I was worried about your mental
acuity. I'm sorry, it's my job.
Haley clasps her head, frowning. Fear flashes in her eyes.
HALEY
Fuck! Not cool, man. You should've
come to me. I'm not some psycho.
Haley rushes out, frustrated. Frost dashes to the door.
FROST
Write an essay about cannibalism...
'n ask Aiden to come see me.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
28 -
Shadows of Threat and Truth
INT. FUNERAL HOME - LIVING ROOM - DUSK
Haley enters, flustered. Marcy strides in from the kitchen
with a knife. Her shadow towers over Haley in the dim light.
MARCY
What do you think you're doing with
legal guardianship? You'll have to
kill me first to take Oli and Ava.
Haley's sharp gaze lands on the shiny knife.
HALEY
I'll consider it. I can prove Danny
is a psycho and you're a criminal.
Or just kill you both.
MARCY
You're mentally unfit. They're --
HALEY
Neil's, I know. Let's tell Danny?
Marcy's face pales. Recovering quickly, she scoffs at Haley.
MARCY
How did you --? Danny knows.
HALEY
It was just a hunch. Aiden can
claim their custody. Why're you
with Danny? Why didn't you escape?
Marcy pauses, her eyes well up, glancing at the crematorium.
MARCY
To keep y'all alive... He'll kill
again if I even try -- I've buried
too many people for one lifetime.
HALEY
(confused)
What do you mean again?
Marcy leans closer with quivering lips, gripping the knife.
MARCY
The less you know the better. Don't
try to run and get yourself killed.
She squeezes Haley's arm gently and walks away.
Genres:
["Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
29 -
Breaking Point
INT. FROST'S OFFICE - DAY
Aiden sits in a chair, tapping his foot. Frost sits behind
his desk, frowning at him. He slaps the laptop shut.
AIDEN
Haley just finished her essay. It's
fire. We should send it to the NYU
creative writing team.
FROST
Read the room. NYU is off the
table. Your moms told the scout to
stick it up his ass.
Aiden's mind races, fidgeting as he struggles to process it.
AIDEN
But -- I had no idea. Why didn't
you come to me...? She -- burnt it.
FROST
Thank your moms on your way out.
The veins on Aiden's face pop. He rises, shoving the chair.
INT. FUNERAL HOME - DINING ROOM - DAY
Aiden bursts through the front door, slamming it shut. Marcy
emerges from the kitchen, confused, glancing at the clock.
MARCY
You're back early.
Aiden rushes at her, gripping her throat. He lifts her off
the ground. His voice trembles, tearing up as he speaks.
AIDEN
Why are you hellbent on ruining my
life...? Why do you hate us?
Marcy gasps for air. Her eyes bulge. BANG! Danny's belt
cracks across Aiden's back. Startled, Aiden releases her. She
drops to the floor, coughing and gasping for breath.
DANNY
What the hell?
Aiden's lips quiver, frowning at Danny, who towers over him.
As he swings again, Aiden grabs the belt and pulls Danny to
him. Aiden pushes him against the wall.
AIDEN
Don't mistake my kindness for
weakness, old man... You think you
have a monopoly on violence? I can
only push it down so deep!
MARCY
Leave him. You'll never go to NYU!
Marcy rises from the ground with panic etched on her face.
Aiden's anger morphs into despair.
AIDEN
I know... I'll die in this hell...
Danny shoves Aiden. He drops to the floor. His mouth fizzes,
convulsing. He clutches his head in pain. Marcy runs to him,
placing his head in her lap, crying, waving at Danny.
MARCY
Get some water! Danny, please!
Danny stands stoic, strolling to the kitchen.
Aiden, teary, glances at Marcy with teary eyes, as he faints.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
30 -
Descent into Darkness
INT. FUNERAL HOME - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Tobacco smoke swirls in the air. Marcy and Danny smoke at the
dining table, slumped over, cigarette butts scattered around
them. Haley steps through the noisy front door. She pauses.
HALEY
Who died here? Wait, that'll make
you happy.
Marcy scowls at her with disdain, pointing upstairs.
MARCY
Go talk some sense into Aiden.
HALEY
What did you do?!
Haley's eyes widen, staring at Marcy. She races upstairs.
INT. AIDEN'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Haley enters a well-organized room filled with medical charts
and iconic New York posters. Her eyes dart across the room.
HALEY
Aiden...?
INT. HALLWAY - NIGHT
Haley knocks on the locked bathroom door. Knocks again. She
peeks at the light seeping through the glass, feeling uneasy.
She knocks harder, her voice rising, steeped in concern.
HALEY
Come on out. You're scaring me!
Taking a few steps back, she kicks in the frosted glass door.
BANG! The lock breaks and the door bursts open.
INT. BATHROOM - NIGHT
Aiden lies in the clawfoot tub filled with blood-red water. A
haunting innocence permeates from his clean-shaven baby face.
A bloodied steel razor lies next to the tub, and a blue suit
hangs on the wall with a red Post-it pocket square.
Horror floods Haley's face. She rushes, struggling to pull
Aiden out of the tub. With blurry eyes, he tries to speak.
Haley stares at two deep cuts forming a V on his wrist.
AIDEN
Writing's on the wall...
HALEY
Stay awake. Danny! Marcy! Help!
Haley runs and grabs the suit. The red Post-it drops to the
ground as she rips the sleeve off with force, sobbing.
She rushes to Aiden. Ties the torn sleeve around his arm as a
tourniquet. Blood flow slows. She stares at her bloody hands.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Don't leave me alone with them.
AIDEN
Watch over Oli and Ava. Promise
you'll keep them safe.
Marcy and Danny rush in. Danny picks up the bloody razor.
DANNY
He used my razor... He's a goner.
HALEY
Get him! I'll get the car!
Danny lifts Aiden up in his arms, bloody water splashing. Oli
and Ava run in, concerned. Marcy stops them, crying.
MARCY
Go to your room!
Haley picks up the Post-it note, soaked in Aiden's blood.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller","Horror"]
Ratings
Scene
31 -
The Dark Escape
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - NIGHT
Danny marches out the front door, carrying Aiden in his arms,
with Marcy behind him. Haley sprints to the hearse. Opens the
backdoor, waving at Danny with urgency.
HALEY
Hurry up! We don't have time.
Danny turns toward the crematorium.
DANNY
It's too late.
Haley rushes to him. Checks for a pulse on Aiden's limp arm.
HALEY MARCY
He's alive. Fast! Listen to her. Go.
DANNY
I've been around enough bodies to
know...
Marcy collapses, weeping. Haley hurls herself at Danny.
HALEY
You're not god. Hurry!
DANNY
(with an evil smirk)
I like playing god. I'll take him.
Danny carries Aiden to the hearse, loading him into the back.
Haley jumps in the front seat of the hearse. He strides to
her, dragging her out, slamming the door shut.
DANNY (CONT'D)
I said, I'll take him.
Haley shakes her head, weeping.
HALEY
I won't tattle. Take me with you.
Danny ignores her, jumps in the hearse and shouts at Marcy.
DANNY
Lock her up.
(to Haley)
Try being brave and Aiden dies.
Haley watches the hearse disappear into the dark with teary
eyes. She glances at the red Post-it, reading Aiden's note.
AIDEN (V.O.)
Don't let him eat me!
A chill creeps across Haley's body. She whimpers, handing the
note to Marcy, who glances at it, wiping her tears. Haley
walks to the porch, holding the railing, not to faint.
INT. HEARSE - TRAVELING - NIGHT
The hearse's stark shadow speeds down the dark highway. Danny
grips the wheel, humming to an old country song on the radio.
Blue and red police lights flash behind. He blinks, annoyed.
Eases off the gas and pulls to the side of the road.
Danny lights a cigarette. He leans back as the smoe curls in
the side mirror, watching Sheriff Waylon as it subsides.
He rolls down the window. The smoke seeps out as Sheriff
Waylon approaches with a flashlight.
Its beam lands on Aiden in the back. A shock flashes on
Sheriff Waylon's face. He rushes to Danny.
He offers Waylon a cigarette with a cold smirk. Aiden coughs
up blood in the back. Waylon's eyes widen.
WAYLON
What's wrong?
DANNY
Slit his wrist. Bleeding to death,
thanks to you.
Waylon grabs his phone with urgency.
WAYLON
Go! I'll get help.
Danny nods, driving away slowly. Waylon rushes to his car. A
loud siren blares with red and blue lights flashing.
Genres:
["Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
32 -
Fractured Promises
INT. AIDEN'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
A dim lamp snaps on. Haley stares at the medical charts. She
sprints across to the wall. Marcy follows her. Haley frowns,
ripping the charts off. She drops to the floor.
HALEY
Why did you do it, coward? You said
you'd do anything for me.
Marcy wipes her tears, lifting Haley off the floor.
HALEY (CONT'D)
You did something. I feel it in my
gut... He's all I had.
Haley stares at Marcy, their bloodshot eyes mirroring each
other. Marcy's face reddens, about to burst into tears.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Let me leave with Ava and Oli.
MARCY
I can't risk losing another son...
He'll kill him to prove a point.
HALEY
You're pathetic, enabling that sad,
disturbed man. Let's go to Waylon.
Marcy scoffs. A sad, painful smile clouds her face.
MARCY
I won't let our secrets go public.
You'll never have a normal life.
HALEY
You call this normal? Your silence
is killing us.
MARCY
If he catches you... You'll know
how normal this really is. You
think you're gonna walk outta here?
Marcy grimaces. Pulls her shirt up, showing a giant NO ESCAPE
seared across her back. Haley sighs as she grips her arm.
MARCY (CONT'D)
At least wait till they're back.
HALEY
I won't wait twenty years like you!
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
33 -
Locked Away Grief
INT. HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS
Marcy exits, locking the door. Oli and Ava stand in her way.
OLI
Let us in. Is Haley okay?
MARCY
She can't see you right now.
OLI
We just wanna give her a hug.
Where's Aiden?
Marcy looks down at him. Haley's cries seep under the door.
Ava comes forward, pushing Marcy, who shakes her head.
MARCY
Not now.
Ava screams, punching Marcy's leg with all her strength.
HALEY (O.S.)
Do as she says! Go to your room!
MARCY
Be patient.
Marcy sighs at the sound of the hearse screeching to a stop.
INT. OLI AND AVA'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Ava sobs as she rushes to her dollhouse, grabbing Aiden's
figure and laying him down in the crematorium. Oli follows.
OLI
What did you see?
Ava digs her nails into her wrist, forming a V-shaped gash.
Sniffling, Oli bursts into tears in her arms.
OLI (CONT'D)
Aiden's a liar... He promised he'd
teach me to drive after Haley.
Ava hugs him, caressing his back as they grieve together.
Genres:
["Thriller","Drama","Horror"]
Ratings
Scene
34 -
Desperate Grief
INT. AIDEN'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Haley rushes to Aiden's bed, collapsing into it face-first,
muffling her sobs. She clutches her head in pain.
Her hand searches frantically under the pillow, retrieving a
UV flashlight. She stares at it and throws it away.
It flickers on. Illuminated text flashes on the wall along
with a drawing of a giant sequoia tree with a raven's nest.
Haley turns the lamp off and picks up the flashlight. She
gasps as the door bursts open and Danny enters. He gestures
for her to rise, scowling at the torn charts.
DANNY
Get up! Time to go.
Haley wipes her tears, glancing at him with bloodshot eyes.
HALEY
How's he? What did the doctor say?
DANNY
Took him straight to the coroner...
Certified dead on arrival. Oh well,
got the autopsy out of the way.
Haley whimpers, bursting into tears. Danny grips her arm,
pulling her toward the door. She breaks loose, shoving him.
HALEY
Let me grieve for a moment... I
just lost my twin.
DANNY
Don't get any wild ideas. We got
two ovens.
HALEY
Subtle.
Danny leaves, locking the door. Haley steps to the window.
She stares at the slanted roof and the ground, unlocking it.
Loud bootsteps echo as Haley locks the window and jumps into
bed. Danny enters with a big plywood board and a claw hammer.
DANNY
Like mother, like daughter. Sooner
you realize there's no escape, the
safer you'll be.
BANG! He nails the board to the lone window.
Darkness spreads as the hammer pounds again, louder each
time. Haley covers her ears, curling up in bed.
Danny grins at her, exiting. The lock clicks.
Haley clicks the flashlight, frowning at the shut window. Her
eyes scan the room for exits in desperation.
She points its beam across the room, zipping past images and
writings. Her eyes widen as she peeks at a note on the wall.
AIDEN (V.O.)
You wouldn't leave if I was sick. I
had to get out of your way for Oli
and Ava... I'll miss you lots.
Sobbing, she presses her face against the note and kisses it.
HALEY
That's not what I meant...
Wiping her tears, she reads the other notes from Aiden.
AIDEN (V.O.)
Use Danny's temper against them...
Divide and conquer.
Haley glances at the drawing of the sequoia tree. A drawing
of his El Camino driving on the Brooklyn Bridge next to it.
Lips quivering, she covers her face, wiping her tears.
Points the light back at the tree. A girl sits at its base.
Her arm reaches inside the tree trunk, retrieving a phone.
Haley runs to the closet, opening the door. She moves the
clothes aside. Frantic, she searches for the crawlspace door.
A sad smile flashes on her face as she finds the latch. Opens
it, stepping in. Wood creaks as she stares at the skylight.
A scuffle behind her. Danny grabs her hair, yanking her out.
DANNY (O.S.)
It's easier if you listened.
INT. HALEY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Danny tosses Haley onto her bed. She stares at the closet,
secured with wooden panels nailed to it.
Danny stuffs Haley's mouth with a rag. Ties a Euro Death knot
on her leg with a rope. Haley kicks him, resisting. Smiling,
he ties her arms behind her back. She struggles, grunting.
DANNY
Enjoy the moonlight. Watch how well
I take care of your brother.
Haley whimpers, screaming through the rag. Danny rushes out.
Genres:
["Thriller","Drama","Horror"]
Ratings
Scene
35 -
Descent into Darkness
EXT. CREMATORIUM - NIGHT
Danny robotically carries Aiden's naked body from the hearse
into the crematorium. Its door shuts behind him. Marcy
approaches the door with heavy footsteps, opening it.
INT. CREMATORIUM - PREPARATION ROOM - NIGHT
Danny grabs the saw next to Aiden's body lying on the bench.
MARCY
Don't cut him open! I agreed when
my babies were starving, but --
Danny shoves Marcy away. The saw shines, whirring loudly. She
screams and charges at him, leaping onto him with raw energy.
He grabs her neck and cradles it between his arms. Marcy
struggles as he calmly puts her to sleep with a cold smirk.
DANNY
Can't let him go to waste...
INT. HALEY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Haley kicks the wooden headboard in anger. A piece of wood
breaks off. She stares at the sharp splinter in surprise.
She wiggles toward it, struggling to sit up. Positions her
wrist on the splinter, hacking at it. Her arm bleeds from the
friction, feverishly scraping against the bed. She grunts.
Snap -- The last knot gives way, and Haley sighs. She grabs a
double-edged razor blade from under the bed. She cuts the
knot on her foot in a panic and stashes it in her pocket.
She puts her shoes on. The floor creaks as she slinks to the
window. Slides it open without a peep --
BANG! SHATTERED GLASS FLIES! A raven crashes through the
window. Startled, Haley ducks.
Stares at the raven's broken neck in a puddle of blood. She
steps closer to the window.
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - NIGHT
Haley climbs through the window onto the mossy, slanted roof.
Inching down, she reaches the edge, shifting her weight --
Her foot slips. She tumbles down off the roof, smacking the
ground with a loud thud. Clutches her arm, wincing in pain.
She grits her teeth, shaking off the pain, hiding behind a
bush, holding her breath.
Danny steps out of the crematorium with a flashlight. Its
beam lands on the bush. Haley stands still, scared. Peeks at
the beam as it retreats.
The crematorium door shuts. She crouches toward it, stepping
over red vines. Leans into the lone lit window, peering in.
Her heart sinks as she watches Danny stand with the saw next
to Aiden's body. She sobs, dropping to the ground, crying.
The ground crunches under heavy bootsteps, nearing Haley.
Startled, Haley stares up at Danny, towering over her. She
stumbles backwards. Jolts up and sprints into the woods.
INT. CREMATORIUM - CONTINUOUS
Danny rushes past Marcy, lying unconscious on the floor. He
grabs the black scarf, covering his face with it, grunting.
He heads to the oven. Slams the red button and rushes out.
EXT. WOODS - NIGHT
Haley runs in a panic through the dense evergreens. Branches
scrape against her as she pushes past the tall shrubs.
Blurry visions of Danny chasing the woman flash in her eyes.
Danny creeps behind Haley with his bloodshot eyes locked onto
her. He loses sight of her between the trees for a moment.
Haley glances behind, sprinting to the giant sequoia tree.
Crouching, she puts her arm up the trunk, searching. Nothing.
She turns around, spotting Danny at a distance. Sticks her
arm inside the trunk again. Her hand touches Neil's phone.
Frantic, she grunts, stretching her arm all the way in. Danny
inches closer. She sprints in a panic as he catches up.
Danny flashes a grin, spotting Haley running. She stumbles.
Regaining her balance, she sprints to the edge of the woods.
Bursting out, Haley races to the sheriff's station. Hope
flickers in her eyes. She scans for Danny while running.
Genres:
["Horror","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
36 -
Night of Terror
INT. SHERIFF'S OFFICE - NIGHT
Sheriff Waylon paces. Neil's red file with Danny's rap sheet.
Documents and photos are cluttered on the table and walls.
His phone rings. He answers it, sitting down.
WAYLON
(into phone)
I'm done waitin'. It's Neil's last
known location from his sim card...
What more do you need?
He glances at the satellite map on his laptop with a red dot
on the funeral home. Waylon's grip tightens on the phone.
WAYLON (CONT'D)
It was stuck to my car... So what,
he's a veteran... I've got enough
proof... I'ma find another judge!
A muffled argument from the other end. He pounds the table.
WAYLON (CONT'D)
Fuck you, too. Sign the damn
warrant tomorrow or I'm goin' in.
He slams the phone. Goes back to a Seattle Times article on
his laptop, "Mysterious disappearances in local woods."
EXT. SHERIFF'S STATION - NIGHT
A tin metal trash can sits next to the fence and a pine tree.
Haley runs toward the station -- A loud shuffle behind her --
Danny grabs her, lifting Haley, turning her around.
Aiden's El Camino flashes in her eyes at the workshop next
door. Haley struggles, kicking the metal trash can, breaking
loose. It drops to the concrete with a loud CLANG!
Sheriff Waylon steps out. A flashlight shines on the tree and
the fallen trash can next to it. He walks toward it.
WAYLON
Freakin' wolves!
Danny stands behind the tree, covering Haley's mouth with his
rough hand. A throw knife with dried blood pressed to her
throat. In eerie silence, he whispers in her ear.
DANNY
If you make a peep, he dies.
Haley nods. She reaches into her pocket, picking up the razor
blade between her fingers.
Waylon strolls to the fallen trash can, setting it straight.
SLASH! Haley pierces Danny's arm deeply with the blade.
He winces, staring at the bloody gash. Flicks the blade away.
Waylon heads back into the station, shaking his head.
Haley, trembling in horror, watches Danny's face redden. He
hands her the scarf and presses the knife against her neck.
DANNY (CONT'D)
People who've seen my face in these
woods disappear. Poof. Your turn?
Haley ties it over the bloody gash, quivering, avoiding eye
contact. Danny grabs her arm. They vanish into the woods.
Genres:
["Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
37 -
Night of Horror in the Crematorium
INT. CREMATORIUM - PREPARATION ROOM - NIGHT
Danny drags Haley in. Blood drips from his arm onto the
floor. He wipes it with his boot. Marcy rises from the floor,
staring at Danny's arm. Grabs the bandage, mending his wound.
MARCY
What happened?
DANNY
Our li'l girl is feisty. Third
time's a charm.
Haley pleads, pounding on Danny's legs from the floor.
HALEY
Don't -- I'll do anything!
DANNY
Anything? See you in hell, baby.
Danny grabs the saw. Marcy jumps in between him and Haley.
DANNY (CONT'D)
Kidding! Lost your sense of humor?
He places Marcy next to Haley, turning the saw on. It whirs.
DANNY (CONT'D)
Keep your eyes wide open for this.
MARCY
What're you doing? Don't!
Danny places the saw on Aiden's leg, smirking. Blood sprays.
DANNY
Two-inch cubes... That's what we
need. It cooks evenly.
Marcy shuts her eyes. Haley weeps, watching the blood gush.
Danny places cubes of meat into the Ziploc bag.
DANNY (CONT'D)
Your turn... Aiden will keep you
company.
He taps on Aiden's pale, lifeless face. Drags Haley by her
hair toward the oven.
DANNY (CONT'D)
Let's see how hot the oven is!
(to Marcy)
You turned it off?
MARCY
I won't let you do it again!
Marcy grabs Danny, who smacks her. She crashes into gas cans.
Gas leaks on the floor before she sets it straight, wincing.
Danny slams the red button. His boot presses Haley's head
onto the floor. The oven glows, sizzling. He grabs her hair.
Danny thrusts Haley's hand onto the searing firebrick. Her
visceral scream overpowers the sizzle of burnt flesh.
Marcy pushes Danny and grabs Haley. Haley clenches her teeth,
staring at Danny in defiance. He grabs her hand, staring.
DANNY
She can commit any crime now. No
fingerprints, no proof. Chop, chop.
Danny exits, grabbing Marcy with him. He locks the door.
Genres:
["Thriller","Horror","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
38 -
Descent into Darkness
INT. CREMATORIUM - PREPARATION ROOM - NIGHT
Haley grabs the saw. It whirs. She moves it closer to her
neck, almost touching it. She pulls her pajamas down.
Cut marks and scars mar her pale thigh. She presses the saw
against her skin, wincing, tears brimming in her eyes.
AIDEN (O.S.)
Stop! Never do that again!
Aiden sits atop the freezer, his presence almost ethereal,
wearing his blue jacket with one arm torn off.
Haley's vision blurs in disbelief as he glides toward her.
Her sobs drown out the whirring of the saw. She turns it off,
shaking her head, whimpering.
HALEY
We could've escaped together...
AIDEN
Oli and Ava need you. You found it?
Haley nods, pulling Neil's phone from her socks. She presses
the power button. Nothing. She hides it in her socks.
HALEY
You hurt me more than I could ever
hurt myself... Wanna see?
Aiden shakes his head, closing his eyes. Haley grabs the saw.
AIDEN
Stop! I can help you.
HALEY
Go be dead. You're just my useless
imagination. You can't do shit.
She hesitates, pressing the red button. The saw whirs loudly.
HALEY (CONT'D)
I won't let them win. I'm gonna
cremate you tonight.
AIDEN
You have to join them... Being a
predator -- is your only way out.
Haley whimpers, shaking her head. Aiden crosses his arms.
HALEY
I can't... I'll find another way.
Haley brings the whirring saw toward Aiden's body. She pulls
it back. Aiden leans closer, nudging Haley toward a decision.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Please don't make me do this.
AIDEN
For Oli and Ava...
The whirring mixes with the sound of the saw piercing flesh.
Blood splashes onto Haley's distraught face. She shivers,
crying as the saw drops from her trembling hands.
Genres:
["Horror","Psychological Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
39 -
Dark Revelations
INT. CREMATORIUM - DAY
Danny strides in, holding cards, bouquets, and flowers with
Aiden's photos. Marcy follows with her head held low.
He opens the oven and tosses all the things inside. Slams the
red button, watching Aiden's photo and flowers burn to ashes.
DANNY
Wanna bet twenty she didn't do it?
Danny smirks, nudging Marcy to cheer her up. Marcy shakes her
head, shoving Danny away.
MARCY
You don't have twenty. I hope she's
okay. You're on your own from now.
INT. PREPARATION ROOM - DAY
Haley smiles brightly at Marcy and Danny with an evil glint.
She packs the last pieces of bloody meat into a Ziploc bag,
casually tossing it into the freezer before turning around.
HALEY
That was a lot of work with this
hand. How do you do it?
Marcy and Danny stare at each other, bewildered. They peer at
a dozen Ziploc bags in the freezer, organized by red labels.
HALEY (CONT'D)
The frozen meat helped. I labeled
them so we know who's who.
Haley shows them her gory, burnt hand. Marcy, shocked, stares
at her in disbelief, shaking her head.
HALEY (CONT'D)
I really liked the stillness of it.
How that saw cut through flesh.
DANNY
I'm not stupid. Don't play with us.
Danny's eyes glimmer with evil excitement, yet unconvinced.
HALEY
Lock me up then... Fuck!
Genres:
["Thriller","Horror","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
40 -
The Feast of Dread
INT. HALEY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Haley frowns, wiggling to get out of the knot in her bed. The
door bursts open. Danny enters, untying her with a smirk.
DANNY
Get ready for the feast.
HALEY
Don't do this! It's your son...
There's no coming back from this.
DANNY
Food is an act of love, baby.
INT. BATHROOM - NIGHT
Danny opens the frosted glass door, shoving Haley in. She
stares at the bloodstained clawfoot tub and the brass mirror.
QUICK FLASH
- Aiden shaves his beard in the mirror, flashing a sad smile.
- He sits in the tub, shaven. Slashes his wrist, wincing.
BACK TO SCENE
DANNY
Keep the door open. We have to time
the deaths in this family.
Haley spits squarely on Danny's face. He smirks, enjoying it.
DANNY (CONT'D)
Too soon? You like dissing me?
She slams the door, shattering the glass. Danny steps on the
glass pieces, crunching them under his boot.
DANNY (CONT'D)
That was mean. I'm so insensitive.
Danny grips her arm, dragging her out.
Genres:
["Thriller","Horror","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
41 -
A Grief-Driven Meal
INT. FUNERAL HOME - DINING ROOM - NIGHT
Danny trudges in with Haley. Her unkempt hair falls over her
bloodshot eyes. Oli and Ava sit stoic at the dining table.
Haley stares at the elaborate spread on the dining table.
Large trays of mash, spaghetti Bolognese, chili, grilled and
curried meat. Aiden's framed photo sits at the center.
An oppressive silence envelops the room as she drops into the
chair, clutching her head with both hands, weeping.
Danny places plates on the table, peeking at the food with
pride. He grabs Haley, forcing her up for the family photo.
Marcy, teary, stands at the center, holding Aiden's photo.
Danny sets the timer on his phone at the table, running back.
DANNY
Smile!
Click! The camera captures the dread on Oli and Ava's faces.
Haley despises Danny's grateful joy. Marcy stands, dejected.
Danny moves closer to Oli, his gaze fixed on Haley. He grabs
the straight razor and presses it against Oli's neck.
DANNY (CONT'D)
They'll pay if you rat us out.
Oli doesn't flinch. Nods at Haley in defiance. Danny steps to
Ava. She sits stoic as he raises his hand to hit her.
MARCY
You have tortured them enough! Sit!
Marcy pulls Danny into the chair, stopping him. He sits with
praying hands. Glances at the meat, placing his hand on it.
DANNY
We're grateful for your sacrifice.
Haley grips the knife, clenching her teeth. Marcy whimpers.
DANNY (CONT'D)
Eat!!!
HALEY
Don't shout!
Haley frowns, dumping the meat and a large scoop of mash on
her plate. Glances at Aiden's photo, weeping.
OLI
Haley, don't... We're fine.
DANNY
I'm glad you came to your senses.
Haley cuts into the meat. The fork hovers near her face for a
moment. She brings the meat closer, placing it in her mouth.
Danny leans down, kissing Ava's head, whispering in her ear.
DANNY (CONT'D)
I wasn't gonna hit you, kiddo.
Ava sobs, turning away. Haley rises, grabbing Oli and Ava.
They walk away with their plates untouched.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller","Psychological"]
Ratings
Scene
42 -
Rituals and Confrontations
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - BACKYARD - DAY
Ava, Oli, and Haley stand around a whooshing open oak fire.
Haley places the raven's body in the fire with teary eyes.
She glances at her burned hand and the raging red flames.
Ava weeps on Oli's shoulder, dejected, as thick smoke rises.
They grab handfuls of soil, sprinkling it on the fire.
Haley turns around. Gasps as Danny leans in, inches from her.
DANNY
Wanna burn this place down?
Haley smirks, grabbing Oli's and Ava's hands, rushing away.
Danny stomps on the fire with his boot, extinguishing it.
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - DAY
Marcy tosses firewood into the red flame in a metal furnace
as an SUV stops in the driveway. She slams the furnace shut.
Frost steps out, scowling at Marcy, who walks over.
FROST
I'm here to see Haley. How's she
holding up?
MARCY
She needs time to heal. It isn't
your time or place to meddle.
FROST
How can she heal in this oppressive
hell? I want her back in school.
MARCY
You can see her when she returns.
FROST
Or I can just come back with social
services 'n leave with all three.
Marcy shakes her head, rushing inside the house. Frost kicks
the tire of the SUV, clenching his teeth.
Marcy returns with Haley. She whispers in Haley's ear.
MARCY
Don't do anything stupid. These old
wooden homes burn fast.
HALEY
All that BS about helping me escape
and now you're threatening to kill?
MARCY
Not a threat. Danny's unhinged.
Marcy scoffs. They walk up to Frost. He flashes a sad smile
at Haley and points his finger at Marcy.
FROST
I'd like to speak to her privately.
MARCY
That's not legal.
FROST
Neither is burning the NYU letter.
Step away or face the consequences.
Marcy frowns and steps toward the porch. Haley stares at her
with disgust. Frost opens the car door for Haley.
MARCY (O.S.)
Make it quick. Luck runs out here.
Haley hesitates, stepping inside the car.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
43 -
Fractured Bonds
INT. FROST'S SUV - DAY
The sun hits Haley's tear-streaked face as she sits in the
passenger seat, lost in a vacant gaze next to Frost.
FROST
I'm glad you're okay.
Haley whimpers. Frost touches her arm, consoling her.
HALEY
I'm not... I'm bleeding out inside.
FROST
I didn't handle the NYU situation
well. I'm so sorry. I can't even --
HALEY
It wasn't your fault.
Haley glances at a charging cable on the dash with hope.
FROST
I shared your essay with the NYU
creative writing team. They want to
meet the raw, unflinching author.
HALEY
Pass. I didn't send you any essay.
(gasps, whimpering)
Aiden --
FROST
It was his idea -- maybe he wanted
you to go with him. How can I help?
HALEY
I need to do this on my own.
Haley grabs the cable, hiding it under her sleeve, fidgeting.
FROST
What's wrong with your moms?
HALEY
Everything.
(pauses, frustrated)
It's mom. Grow up!
Haley exits, slamming the door. Frost grimaces, driving away.
Marcy strides to the death cherry plant. Haley follows her.
MARCY
What did you two talk about?
HALEY
About how you killed Aiden... I
told him you'd die the same way.
Haley clenches her knuckle. Marcy whimpers, bending down. She
reaches for a dried cherry, popping it into her mouth.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Why would you --
MARCY
(spits the pit, coughing)
... Makes you stronger.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
44 -
Unlocking Secrets
INT. HALEY'S BEDROOM - DAY
Haley locks the bedroom door with a soft click. Removes the
cellphone from the Ziploc bag. "Happy Birthday unlocks me!"
is written on a red Post-it note in Aiden's handwriting.
Haley connects the charging cable to the phone, waiting. The
screen illuminates with a message. "Enter Password."
HALEY
Our birthday?
Fingers trembling, she types 07-07-2007. The screen flashes
INCORRECT. Her expression tightens as frustration mounts.
Haley flips the Post-It. "We owe Bastian for the El Camino."
Shakes her head with a hint of a smile. Takes a deep breath,
and types 07-07-2025. It unlocks with a beep. Pumps her fist.
Her eyes widen as she scrolls through documents and images
that Neil collected about Danny.
She takes a photo of the old document she found, "Danny Volk
- Dishonorable Discharge." She grabs her red journal, finding
Gabriel's number. Texts him the photos and documents.
HALEY (TEXT)
Use these docs. I think he's a war
criminal. Classified. They won't
know what hit them.
Stares at the screen as Gabriel types. Her phone vibrates.
GABRIEL (TEXT)
Great. I'll subpoena and push for
the restraining order.
Firm knocks on the door. Haley hides the charger. Clicks the
record button on the phone in silent mode. The battery on the
screen flashes red with five percent charge.
Haley hides the phone in her pocket as Marcy opens the door.
She rises, hiding her panic, leaving together.
Genres:
["Thriller","Mystery","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
45 -
Secrets and Betrayals in the Crematorium
INT. CREMATORIUM - DAY
Danny sits, drinking cheap whiskey next to the ovens. Marcy
and Haley enter. Danny pours shots, handing them out.
HALEY
Why do I feel you still doubt me?
DANNY
It was a shock... Your change.
HALEY
You shielded us for too long. You
should've introduced us gradually.
I always felt like prey... but now,
that dynamic has shifted.
Marcy stares at her in disbelief. Haley taps Danny's arm.
HALEY (CONT'D)
How did it start? Did you wake up
one day and decide to eat people?
Danny laughs, scoffing. Marcy hides her nervous fidgeting.
DANNY
Desperate times. It's definitely an
acquired taste, but very addicting.
Danny hesitates. Marcy nudges him, encouraging.
DANNY (CONT'D)
I grow stronger with each meal --
evolving into a far superior being,
infused with their essence... I
wanted y'all to experience it.
MARCY
Tell her how it started. It's time.
He nods, staring at Marcy for reaffirmation. She blinks.
DANNY
Our military jet was shot down in
the Hindu Kush region of the
Himalayas. Only I made it out.
Haley downs the shot with Danny. She pours another for both.
DANNY (CONT'D)
There were three of us. One died on
impact. He lasted only a week...
Then it was me or -- I had to kill
my best friend to survive.
Marcy peeks as Haley consoles him by touching his arm.
DANNY (CONT'D)
My crew's sacrifice saved me.
HALEY
Is that when the Taliban --?
Haley's phone lights up. On its screen, the battery flashes
one percent. She covers her pocket with her arm, fidgeting.
DANNY
After three weeks. They tortured me
worse than Rambo. I killed off a
tiny village to escape to our base.
Danny grips the straight razor from his pocket with contempt.
DANNY (CONT'D)
This is all I had... I hated every
moment of it, but two years in
captivity changes a man.
Haley glances at Danny with a mix of sadness and fascination.
HALEY
No shit. What's with the skulls...?
I wanna know everything.
DANNY
I'll teach you, baby. De-fleshing
skulls with skin beetles is an art.
Even museums can't do it. Hold on.
Danny marches into the prep room. Marcy and Haley exchange
glances as he returns with a box covered in a black cloth.
He removes the cloth. A glass box with a half-eaten WOMAN'S
SKULL. Beetles rummage through its flesh. Haley's eyes widen
as she recognizes her face from the woods.
DANNY (CONT'D)
We'll teach Oli and Ava butchering.
MARCY
I don't think that's a good idea.
Haley's phone vibrates, then turns off. Marcy and Danny stare
at her. Danny steps toward Haley. His face surges with doubt.
Her face pales. She rises in a panic, holding her shot glass.
HALEY
Yeah, but Ava and Oli won't be a
natural like me without your genes.
Danny's face flushes red. Haley downs the shot, hiding her
evil smirk as she watches Marcy stare at Danny in horror.
DANNY
You were pregnant when I left. Did
you fu -- before Afghanistan?
MARCY
I, I was -- Neil -- he didn't know.
HALEY
Oops. I'll let you sort this out.
Haley exits, exhaling as the door slams shut behind her.
DANNY
Emotional support for a widower,
huh...? This is how you repay me?
Marcy shoves him, fuming. He crashes onto the red oven door.
MARCY
Repay you for what? You think you
own me? Abusive fuck!
BAM! Danny smacks her with a clenched fist, dropping her. He
grabs her by the hair. Touches his nicked ear, shouting.
DANNY
I'll barbecue his fat ass for you.
MARCY
He cared about me... More than you
ever could.
Veins on Marcy's face pop as she punches his face.
MARCY (CONT'D)
You're supposed to feel safe at
home. Not abused by your family...
DANNY
The drama...
Danny grabs his torn, empty wallet. He removes a smiling
photo of Oli and Ava and tosses it into the open oven.
Genres:
["Horror","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
46 -
Dominance and Despair
INT. OLI AND AVA'S BEDROOM - DAY
Oli naps on the top bunk. Ava's fist pounds on his chest.
AVA (V.O.)
Haley needs us, Owly!
Oli gasps awake from his dream. Peeks at Ava, sleeping below.
The door opens as Haley enters. Oli jumps down from his bunk.
Ava rubs her puffy eyes, waking up. Oli and Ava hug her.
Haley pushes them away, staring at the dollhouse.
OLI
Are you okay, Haley?
HALEY
Why wouldn't I be okay?
OLI
Mom told us about Aiden... You were
crying so much.
HALEY
He was stupid! Stupid people die.
Their faces pale as they are about to burst into tears. Haley
grabs the dollhouse, lifting it in her arms with rage.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Things are different now. Follow my
lead.
OLI
What're you doing?
Ava cries, trying to stop her. Oli watches on, terrified.
Haley stomps out with the dollhouse. Oli and Ava follow her.
INT. CREMATORIUM - CONTINUOUS
Haley marches in, gripping the dollhouse in her arms. Marcy
lies on the floor, battered. Danny scowls at Oli and Ava.
DANNY
Why did you bring them here?
HALEY
They need to learn what'll happen
if they cross us.
OLI
Haley, no. We always listen to you.
Haley brings Oli and Ava forward. Places the dollhouse in the
oven. Speaking to Oli, she smirks at Marcy on the ground.
HALEY
You're not in charge.
She slams the red button. The dollhouse burns up in flames.
Ava sobs as her months of effort turn to ashes. Oli shakes
his head in disgust at Haley, consoling Ava. They leave.
DANNY
I trust you. You're all I have now.
Danny hands her the house keys. Glaring at Marcy, he leaves.
MARCY
You have no idea what you've done!
Marcy weeps uncontrollably. Haley helps her up into a chair,
staring at her with confusion.
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - DUSK
Oli and Ava trudge to the withered death cherry plant. Oli
plucks the dried cherries, handing Ava a few. They nod with
determination, about to eat the cherries.
Oli turns around. Haley towers over him. She slaps his hand
so hard that he falls to the ground. Ava drops the cherries
on the ground. Haley shouts at Oli.
HALEY
What did I tell you? You wanna die?
Fine. I'll cook you a Happy Meal!
Oli and Ava run inside, dejected. Haley kneels, picking up
the dried cherries from the ground one by one, mumbling.
INT. HALEY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Haley sits in bed, listening to the recording on her phone.
Aiden sits next to her, tapping his foot with nervous energy.
She frowns at the mention of cannibalism.
HALEY
You believe me now? Marcy is right,
we can't have a normal life if this
gets out. Time for Plan B.
Aiden nods. Haley stares at her phone screen in deep shock.
"Effects of Death Cherry: Fatalities: Cardiac arrest, coma,
and seizures." She texts Gabriel, sighing.
HALEY (TEXT)
That's all I got, sorry.
Haley searches "Homicides in Grays Harbor County Washington".
A double homicide article pops up. She nods, grinning.
Aiden raises his hand. Haley shrugs, hiding the phone under
the bed, and pulls out the razor blade, waving Aiden goodbye.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller","Psychological"]
Ratings
Scene
47 -
Secrets and Shadows
INT. FUNERAL HOME - LIVING ROOM - DAY
Danny paces, talking on his cell, giddy with excitement.
DANNY
(into phone)
We'll take the bodies. Where...?
Danny hangs up the phone with excitement.
DANNY (CONT'D)
Haley, come on down!
INT. HALEY'S BEDROOM - DAY
Haley turns her phone off and stashes it under the mattress
with an evil smirk. She heads to the door, opening it.
INT. FUNERAL HOME - LIVING ROOM - DAY
Haley trudges downstairs. Marcy strolls to Danny, standing at
the bottom of the stairs. Haley shrugs with her hand raised.
DANNY
Double homicide! The lady said
we'll get the bodies if we go fast.
Haley rubs her nose, hiding her smirk, staring at them.
HALEY
You guys made up quickly.
DANNY
Strength of family. Blood is
thicker than -- you know.
Haley's face pales. Marcy heads to the bedroom.
DANNY (CONT'D)
Wanna help daddy pick them up?
HALEY
I'm gonna cook dinner for Ava and
Oli. Where's my birthday gift?
DANNY
Tonight. It's a big day for them,
too. We'll get them started today.
HALEY
(unsure)
With what?
DANNY
Butchering! Double homicide... One
for Oli, one for Ava. It's perfect.
Haley shakes her head while fidgeting nervously.
HALEY
I don't know.
DANNY
Guess who their next will be... I'm
an artist, yeah? Poetic justice.
HALEY
You didn't bury Neil -- with Waylon
on your back?
DANNY
I saved him for special occasions.
Danny flashes an evil smirk, winking. Haley shakes her head.
Marcy returns in a fancy black dress, all dolled up.
MARCY
I miss you calling me mommy...
Haley checks her out, chuckling.
HALEY
Very soon. It's a double homicide,
not a double date.
Danny laughs hysterically, walking toward his room. Urgency
flashes on Marcy's face as she pulls Haley toward her.
MARCY
He's going to kill Oli and Ava...
Haley stares at Marcy in disbelief, shaking her head. Marcy
shows her a grayscale photo of a MAN and BABY BOY.
MARCY (CONT'D)
I was married before. He killed my
husband... They'll be a constant
reminder of another man just like
Hayden... He can't handle it.
Haley's face pales in horror. Marcy presses some crumpled
twenty-dollar bills in her hand.
MARCY (CONT'D)
Save them... Run! Tonight!
Danny returns. Marcy glances at Haley, pleading as they exit.
HALEY
Fuck him! I'm done running!
Haley clenches her teeth, her vision blurring. Her head
spins, and she drops to the floor, face-first. THUD!
INT. FUNERAL HOME - LIVING ROOM - LATER
Oli and Ava sprinkle water on Haley's face in a panic. They
flash a sad smile as her eyes blur open, wincing. She jolts
up, frowning in a panic.
OLI
What's wrong?
HALEY
I'm okay. Go, stay in your room.
They leave with their heads held low. Haley paces nervously.
Genres:
["Thriller","Drama","Horror"]
Ratings
Scene
48 -
A Sinister Feast
INT. CREMATORIUM - NIGHT
Haley strides in with a few heavy-duty black garbage bags.
She grabs a shovel next to the preparation room door. She
stares at the lock, then the jangling house keys in her hand.
INT. FUNERAL HOME - KITCHEN - LATER
Haley washes the dirt off her hands in the sink. A shovel,
covered in mud, leaning against the wall, drops with a thud.
Haley steps to the stove. She drops a handful of red meat
into the hot pan. A sizzle erupts as Aiden watches her cook.
AIDEN
Is that me?
HALEY
You're their favorite frozen snack.
AIDEN
You're becoming them.
Haley takes the meat off the pan, squishing a bloody piece.
HALEY
Isn't that what you wanted? Perfect
medium rare.
Steam rises from a simmering pot of tomato gravy.
Haley garnishes it with salt and pepper. Death cherries soak
in a bowl of water on the stove.
Haley tastes the gravy with a spatula, smacking her blood-red
lips. Yum! An evil smile creeps across her face.
AIDEN
You can't do this to Oli and Ava!
They did nothing wrong.
HALEY
Watch me... He'd kill them, anyway.
Aiden's frustration mounts as he struggles to comprehend her.
AIDEN
I don't even recognize you anymore!
HALEY
Run away! We'll be with you soon!
She squeezes the cherries into the bloody water, pouring them
into the gravy with a smirk.
AIDEN
I can't watch this.
Haley drops the meat into the gravy, stirring it gently.
She meticulously plates the food with perfect portions of
rice and meat. Grabs the plates and steps to the dining room.
INT. FUNERAL HOME - DINING ROOM - NIGHT
Oli and Ava sprint downstairs toward the dining table. Haley
lags behind as Oli plops down at the table with Ava.
OLI
We're so hungry. Is this what you
promised to cook for us?
Oli ogles the delicious food, grabbing the fork and knife.
Ava glances, excited, smiling. Haley rushes in behind them.
HALEY
Oli, stop! It's not for you, silly.
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - SHED - NIGHT
Haley, Oli, and Ava walk past the crematorium toward a shed.
Their small figures dwarf in giant shadows of the dark woods.
HALEY
Are you ready? Close your eyes.
Oli and Ava nod halfheartedly, unsure of what to expect.
INT. SHED - NIGHT
Haley opens the door. Oli and Ava's eyes pop wide. Click!
Bright lights snap on. Colorful ornaments and starry lights
twinkle, casting a divine glow. Aiden sits inside, smiling.
Cheery photos of Aiden, Haley, Oli, and Ava adorn the walls.
Colorful cupcakes with candles sit on a tiny end table.
Oli and Ava jump for joy, their eyes wide and delighted. They
hug Haley as she lights a candle.
AIDEN
Amazing! When did you do all this?
HALEY
Lot of multitasking today.
The headlights of the hearse flash as it enters the driveway.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Shit -- they're back. I need to go.
AIDEN
I got them. You sure about this?
Oli and Ava nod as Haley hurries out. The wind whistles as
she turns around, glancing at them. A whimper escapes her.
She thrusts her phone into Oli's hand with a note on screen.
HALEY
If I don't come back in an hour,
call 911 and read this.
Oli shakes his head. Ava's trembling hand grips Haley.
She pats her hair and hurries out. Sprints home through the
shadows, steeling herself against the chill of the winds.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller","Horror"]
Ratings
Scene
50 -
A Poisoned Feast
INT. FUNERAL HOME - DINING ROOM - NIGHT
Danny steps in with Marcy, clutching a cake box. Haley sits
at the dining table, masking her heavy breaths with a smile.
DANNY
Double homicide was a false alarm.
They haven't even done the autopsy.
HALEY
Autopsy is a problem... but I'm
sure you'll have the bodies soon.
Danny peeks at the perfectly garnished dishes, a candle, and
dark red wine on the table. Haley invites them to sit.
DANNY
That looks so good.
HALEY
I hope it tastes as good.
Danny raises an eyebrow, with a hint of surprise.
DANNY
You have become so thoughtful. I
didn't know you could cook.
HALEY
I love it. You guys never made me
cook. Just like the butchering.
MARCY
You can cook whenever you want...
Where are the kids?
HALEY
They already ate. They're asleep.
MARCY
(gets up)
I'll go wake them up to cut the
cake. It's almost midnight.
A nervous smile appears on Haley's face, recovering quickly.
HALEY
We can do it tomorrow. Let's eat.
MARCY
I wanted a nice family moment.
Marcy sits. Opens the cake box with a sad nod, revealing a
pink and blue birthday cake with Haley & Aiden written on it.
Haley's face pales. She looks at the cake and their faces.
Marcy and Danny grab the forks, sticking them into the meat.
HALEY
Wait!
MARCY DANNY
What? I'm hungry.
Haley sighs, staring at them. Rubs her sweaty hands together.
She pours the wine into the glasses. They toast.
HALEY
Cheers!
DANNY
Why're you acting weird?
HALEY
I'm nervous -- about the food.
Haley sticks her fork into the rice. Danny digs in, savoring
the meat and the bloody gravy. As Marcy tastes the food, she
stares at Haley for a moment, then eats it with a sad smile.
DANNY
This is amazing. What is it?
HALEY
I'm glad. It's your favorite.
Marcy grabs her wine glass. Her hand trembles as wine spills.
Danny glances at her, his mouth stuffed with food, chewing.
A grin creeps onto Haley's face as she watches them devour
the meal. Haley cuts a slice of cake, still watching them.
Danny stares at Haley, his vision blurring. Grabs his head.
The fork falls from his hand onto the empty plate.
MARCY
I feel weird.
DANNY
Me too.
They stare at Haley. Danny rises, grabbing her. Haley takes a
step back, evading him as he drops to the floor like a stone.
Marcy stares at Danny in horror. Eyes wide, her face pales,
watching Haley push the wheelbarrow into the living room.
HALEY
I lied. I hate cooking.
INT. SHED - NIGHT
Oli scrolls his phone to Haley's note. Ava grabs his hand,
shaking her head. Oli frees his hand. Click!
They read the note. The bright screen amplifies the sadness
on their faces. Oli jolts up, enraged, opening the door.
Ava taps his arm, gesturing to call with her hand. He nods,
grabbing the phone. Clicks 9-1-1, dialing. The call connects.
The door bursts open. Haley stares at the phone in a panic.
She disconnects the call as the operator continues to speak.
OLI
Sorry, I was just trying to help.
HALEY
Can you keep Ava safe in your room?
Oli nods, grabbing Ava's hand. They exit together.
INT. CREMATORIUM - LATER
Haley dumps Marcy into a chair from the wheelbarrow. Danny
sits slumped in the other chair. The steel straight razor,
fishing line, and the rifle rest on the table next to them.
Haley sits opposite them. Her breathing steadies, her resolve
building. She shivers as heat from the ovens warms the air.
Growing impatient, she leans forward and sprinkles water on
their faces. Their eyes flutter open, blurry and disoriented.
HALEY
Don't move. Your central nervous
systems are toast.
Haley takes a deep breath. A dark smile creeps onto her lips.
HALEY (CONT'D)
There wasn't enough death cherry
for the both of you. After Grandpa,
it would've been too obvious.
Haley leans in and stares into Marcy's eyes. Marcy speaks,
incoherent and struggling, tossing a pleading glance at her.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Did you have a change of heart?
MARCY
I'm... He's my --
Danny groans in a low, pained voice, struggling to move. He
moves his fingers, slowly regaining his motor function.
Haley grabs his phone from his pocket, opening text messages.
HALEY
We need a suicide note.
Haley imitates Danny, using air quotes.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Figured it's an easy way to end
my... Dad.
Danny stares at her in disbelief. Marcy whimpers.
HALEY (CONT'D)
I didn't know death cherry causes a
heart attack. But why on Christmas?
Haley types the suicide note on Danny's phone.
HALEY (CONT'D)
"Haley, we failed you and your
siblings. We were never meant to be
parents. I'm sorry for everything.
I'm taking Marcy with me – Danny."
She schedules the text to send in twenty minutes. Puts the
phone in Danny's chest pocket, tapping his chest.
HALEY (CONT'D)
I'm on the clock. Oli dialed 911...
Chop, chop.
Haley sets a twenty-minute timer on her phone. Her hand
trembles as she stares into Marcy's teary eyes.
HALEY (CONT'D)
I'll grant your wish. You won't die
a cannibal... Let me deal with
Danny before the poison wears off.
Haley grabs the rifle. She positions its barrel on Danny's
throat. Grabs the fishing line tied to the trigger.
Danny groans, his hand gripping the chair. Haley stares at
his face, whispering in his ear, about to step back --
HALEY (CONT'D)
See you in hell, Daddy.
Danny grunts, grabbing her throat with a raw, desperate grip.
The rifle drops aside. Haley winces under his hold, coughing.
He shoves her toward the oven. Her face, mere inches away
from the flaming hot surface. Her hair melts in the heat.
DANNY
My body can handle toxins. I didn't
want you to end up in this oven!
Haley coughs in the acrid smoke from burnt hair. Her vision
blurs as she stares at the rifle on the floor.
She grabs Danny's face as he presses her head into the
searing oven, strangling her.
She digs her nails into Danny's arm, scratching him. He
smirks, overpowering her with ease.
Veins on his face pop, watching her helpless face. A teardrop
sears in the oven. He grabs her hair, shouting with disgust.
DANNY (CONT'D)
Can't believe I gave this place to
you in my will if I --
Danny turns his head around to a clicking sound -- BANG!
His hollow skull and lifeless body drops to the floor with a
loud thud. Blood and guts splatter on the floor.
Marcy, holding the rifle, crashes to the floor in the recoil.
She grabs her dislocated shoulder, screaming in pain.
Haley stares at Marcy, stunned, then at Danny's bloody skull.
She grips the razor, rushing to Marcy. She presses the cold
razor against Marcy's neck, nicking her. Blood trickles.
MARCY
Don't -- I want a second chance --
to make it up to y'all.
HALEY
Why did you --? Weren't you a team?
Haley removes the razor from Marcy's neck. Marcy scoffs,
popping her shoulder back into place, wincing.
MARCY
I was Ava's age when Danny... Dad
would've killed him... so I kept
quiet and he kept doing it. He was
troubled... I couldn't abandon him.
Haley clutches her head. Marcy glances at her, pleading.
HALEY
I'm sorry. I can't have you around.
Ava and Oli deserve a normal life.
Haley presses the razor against Marcy's neck. Clenching her
teeth, she grips the razor, grabbing her hair. Haley smirks,
ready to slash her neck. Marcy closes her eyes, dejected.
Loud police sirens from multiple cars wail outside. Haley,
startled, stashes the razor in her pocket and rushes out.
Genres:
["Thriller","Drama","Horror"]
Ratings
Scene
52 -
Desperate Measures
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - NIGHT
Blue and red lights flash as the sheriff's cruiser skids to a
screeching halt, followed by another. Sheriff Waylon exits,
clutching a warrant. Two DEPUTIES with guns drawn step out.
WAYLON
Time to face the music! Where's he?
Haley steps out of the crematorium. Halts like a deer in the
cruiser's headlights. She exhales nervously, running back in.
HALEY
Please help!
INT. CREMATORIUM - CONTINUOUS
Waylon and the deputies rush in, following Haley, guns drawn.
He stares at Marcy, sitting on the floor next to the rifle.
Waylon stares at Danny's body. Steps to Marcy and kicks the
rifle away. Hands Marcy the warrant, turning to the deputies.
WAYLON
I got this. Search the home for
anythin' that connects Danny to the
disappearances of Neil and others.
The deputies exit. Waylon and Haley help Marcy into a chair.
WAYLON (CONT'D)
Walk me through what went down.
HALEY
It was self-defense. He was gonna
kill us.
WAYLON
You had your chance to speak.
Waylon gestures for Marcy to speak. Aiden glides toward
Haley, pointing to the timer on her phone, beeping red.
AIDEN (V.O.)
Two minutes. Hurry!
Her gaze flicks to Danny's phone on the floor next to his
body. She moves in front of it. Waylon stares at Haley.
WAYLON
What? Don't move... Marcy, go on.
MARCY
I knew this day would come... He
planted the death cherry for me. I
secretly built a tolerance, faked
it and took the first chance I got.
Haley, in a panic, bends down, picking up Danny's phone. The
timer now shows 30 seconds. Marcy rises from the chair.
WAYLON
What do you mean you faked it?
MARCY
I made him believe I was paralyzed.
Haley opens the text messages. Ten seconds. Aiden fidgets.
Waylon tilts his head. Haley hides the phone behind her back,
trying to delete the text by clicking feverishly.
WAYLON
What's in your hand?
Waylon steps to Haley. The timer ticks down to five seconds.
Marcy collapses to the floor, fainting. She nods at Haley.
Waylon catches her, his attention split between the two.
WAYLON (CONT'D)
Marcy, stay with me. What's wrong?
MARCY
Death cherry. I'm not superhuman.
Haley deletes the text with one second to spare, trembling.
She drops the phone to her foot and onto the floor next to
Danny. She rushes to them. They support Marcy into the chair.
HALEY
I need some air.
Waylon nods, grabbing his phone. Haley exits, dialing Sophia.
WAYLON (O.S.)
Need an ambulance at 6 Divine Lane.
Genres:
["Thriller","Drama","Crime"]
Ratings
Scene
53 -
Confrontation at the Crematorium
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - LATER
PARAMEDICS carry Marcy on a stretcher into the ambulance.
Haley stands on the porch with Oli and Ava on both sides as
Sophia's black SUV pulls up. She opens the door in haste. Oli
and Ava get inside. Ava grips her hand as she shuts the door.
HALEY
Hurry! I'll come soon.
The SUV pulls away as Waylon taps on Haley's shoulder.
WAYLON
I'm glad Oli and Ava weren't here
or I would've had to take them in.
He nods with a sad smile. Haley walks toward the ambulance.
Marcy, lying on the stretcher inside, peeks her head up.
MARCY
Bring Oli and Ava to the hospital!
Haley hesitates, nodding. The ambulance drives away.
WAYLON
Why's your face bruised?
HALEY
Oh, you know.
Haley sweats. Her eyes widen as she concocts an answer.
WAYLON
I don't. You do.
HALEY
Danny was abusive. He'd black out
at times. Then it's a rampage.
WAYLON
His drinkin' was outta control...
Creepin' around in the woods. We've
all dealt with shitty father
syndrome. It's much too common.
Haley grimaces. Waylon peeks at her with authority.
WAYLON (CONT'D)
Have you seen this guy? Neil?
Haley glances at his phone. Startled, she nods her head.
HALEY
He was here, looking for Marcy.
WAYLON
When? How did you get his sim?
Haley stares at the spot where Neil was killed, conflicted.
HALEY
What sim? He got into a fight with
Danny. He shot him and drove away.
WAYLON
Don't lie to me! You'll go to jail.
HALEY
Why would I lie? I can show you.
Haley marches toward the crematorium. Waylon follows her.
INT. CREMATORIUM - NIGHT
Waylon moves the yellow police tape, holding it up for Haley.
They walk past the pool of blood, numbered yellow evidence
markings, and a chalk drawing of Danny's body on a stretcher.
Haley moves closer to his body, pointing at his nicked ear.
HALEY
There, am I free to go?
Waylon checks the ear up close as paramedics carry Danny out.
Genres:
["Thriller","Drama","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
54 -
Revelations at Midnight
EXT. CREMATORIUM - NIGHT
Waylon walks to the cruiser with Haley. The deputies exit the
home, holding up clear plastic bags with gathered evidence.
Haley and Waylon stare at a boy's skull in a bag. She gasps.
HALEY
Hayden!
Waylon stares at her in disbelief, holding the bag up close.
WAYLON
Your brother -- who went missin'
twenty years ago?
Tears stream down Haley's cheeks, nodding.
WAYLON (CONT'D)
Shall we go see your mom?
HALEY
Need anything else from the house?
Waylon shakes his head, walking to the cruiser. Turns around.
WAYLON
Wait...! Check the freezer!
Haley's heart drops, her face as pale as paper. The deputies
march into the crematorium. Waylon and Haley follow them.
Waylon glares at Haley with suspicion, lighting a cigarette.
WAYLON (CONT'D)
You don't look so good.
INT. PREPARATION ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Waylon glances at the gruesome equipment on the walls. A
deputy pries open the freezer. Waylon peeks inside. His eyes
widen, sharing a look with the deputies, nodding.
Haley sweats, peeking over their shoulders. Waylon stares
into it again. It's empty, squeaky clean! He slams it shut.
She hides her grin, striding to the parked Crown Victoria.
INT. SHERIFF'S CRUISER - NIGHT
Waylon drives. Haley sits in the passenger seat, fidgeting.
The cruiser reaches a T-shaped fork on the dark highway. The
clock on the dash flips to 12:00. Waylon glances at her.
WAYLON
Happy Birthday! Your gift is your
freedom. We're all rootin' for you.
Haley nods with a sad smile, pointing her hand toward Waylon.
HALEY
Make a left.
Waylon stares at her, confused. The cruiser turns left,
disappearing into the night as a dot of light.
EXT. SOPHIA'S HOUSE - NIGHT
The cruiser pulls up. Haley steps out, waving at Waylon.
HALEY
Goodbye, Sheriff Waylon.
WAYLON
Stay out of trouble, okay? Gabriel
left the anonymous tip about the
abuse... Thought you should know.
Haley nods gratefully and climbs the steps to the front door.
Waylon honks her goodbye, driving away.
Genres:
["Thriller","Mystery","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
55 -
Determined Departure
INT. SOPHIA'S HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Gabriel opens the door. A sadness flashes on his face upon
seeing Haley. He sits on the couch. Haley paces nervously.
HALEY
We're leaving...
GABRIEL
You can't! I filed the papers, but
it'll take time for the hearing.
Sophia brings Oli and Ava. They run to Haley, hugging her.
HALEY
I'm done waiting. Did you get it?
GABRIEL
Waylon and I tried to convince that
hard-ass judge. He won't grant a
restraining order against them.
HALEY
(clutches her head)
Even with all that proof I sent?
GABRIEL
No. Marcy will keep their custody.
Gabriel frowns. Haley, about to collapse, drops onto the
couch. Pulls on the threads of it, glancing at Oli and Ava.
HALEY
I won't allow it. It's time for me
to face my fears. I'm gonna go down
swinging when my family's at stake.
Haley hugs Gabriel, determined, with gratitude in her eyes.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Aiden and I will never forget you,
Gabriel. Thank you for everything.
Haley glances at the clock, showing her phone to Gabriel.
HALEY (CONT'D)
I'll need you on retainer for what
I'm about to do. I need a permit.
Gabriel shakes his head nervously. Haley holds Sophia's hand.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Can we get a lift?
EXT. HOSPITAL - NIGHT
Sophia's SUV pulls up. Haley steps out, closing the car door.
Oli and Ava glance at her from the backseat.
HALEY
Stay with Sophia. I'll be back.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
56 -
Confrontation and Secrets
INT. HOSPITAL - ROOM - DAY
Marcy lies in bed with an IV needle in her arm. Her right
shoulder in a sling. Haley marches through the door.
MARCY
What took you so long? Where's Oli
and Ava?
Haley scoffs, shaking her head, staring into Marcy's eyes.
HALEY
You knew he killed Hayden... How
many more kids have to die? You're
lucky the cops showed up or --
You'll never see Oli and Ava again.
MARCY
What --? You can't do that!
Haley shows Marcy a map on her phone with a red dot blinking.
HALEY
I know where all the skeletons are
buried... Literally. If you even
breathe my name, they'll find Neil.
EXT. WOODS - NIGHT (FLASHBACK)
Haley tosses a shovel and climbs out of a freshly dug grave,
sweating profusely. She wipes the sweat off her forehead with
gloved hands. She grabs Ziploc bags with meat, labeled Neil.
HALEY (V.O.)
I'll testify that you and Danny
killed Neil to keep Oli and Ava...
A DNA test will prove I'm right.
Haley drops the bags into the grave. She dumps dirt onto them
with the shovel. Grabs Neil's phone and marks the location.
She kneels with praying hands and places a sunflower on top.
HALEY
I'll protect them... I promise.
Haley carries a heavy garbage bag and the shovel, panting.
She struggles to reach the giant sequoia tree.
Haley drops the shovel, opening the garbage bag. She glances
at the Ziploc bags marked Aiden in her hands. She whimpers.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
57 -
Buried Secrets
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - DAY (BACK TO PRESENT DAY)
Marcy bursts into tears, shaking her head, pleading to Haley.
HALEY
I'll tell you where I buried Aiden,
beg his forgiveness for the rest of
your miserable life. We won't be a
part of it... I promised him that!
Haley nods at Aiden, glum, sitting in a chair at the edge of
the room. She glares at Marcy, wiping her tears in pity.
HALEY (CONT'D)
You're good at digging graves. Are
you gonna bury Danny or burn him?
MARCY
I should've done more... I'm sorry.
Haley scoffs, stepping toward the door. She turns around, her
eyes simmering with rage.
HALEY
I stopped sleepwalking after Aiden
-- because I was busy dreaming...
About you and Danny in the ovens.
Burn him for what he did to us.
Marcy removes the IV, trying to stop Haley. She evades her.
HALEY (CONT'D)
Burn, I shall...
Sheriff Waylon stands at the door, holding Neil's red folder.
Haley's breaths quicken. Waylon raises an eyebrow and waves.
WAYLON
You're back? I'm confident you'll
get their custody...
Waylon taps Haley's arm. Steps aside, showing her the way.
HALEY
I'm not worried. Just embracing my
freedom. Go easy on Mommy.
Haley glances at Marcy one last time before leaving. Aiden
glides next to her, and they stride toward the exit sign.
Waylon steps to Marcy. Sits next to her, tapping the folder.
WAYLON
So how do we know if you poisoned
Danny, shot and killed him? Won't
put it past you. You're capable.
Marcy flashes a sad smile, nodding.
MARCY
My only regret is I didn't play my
hand sooner... to keep us alive.
She hands him her signed organ donor registration form.
MARCY (CONT'D)
Maybe they're better off without
me...
Waylon hands Marcy a photograph of Hayden's skull.
WAYLON
I think we found Hayden. What's
left of him anyway... Talk soon.
Horror creeps into Marcy's eyes, staring at her shadow above.
MARCY
What did he do to my baby --?
(lips quivering in rage)
I'm glad I killed that monster.
She closes her eyes, weeping. Waylon rises, opening the door.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
58 -
A Fiery Farewell
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - NIGHT
Sophia's SUV pulls up. Oli and Ava step out, hugging Sophia.
Haley exits. She caresses their heads, pointing to the shed.
HALEY
Stay and finish those cupcakes.
They run to the shed. Sophia grabs Haley's phone, typing.
HALEY (CONT'D)
I'll miss annoying you.
SOPHIA
I installed Venmo. We did a little
fundraiser for you. Sheriff Waylon
and my dad are the top donors.
HALEY
I can't -- you're the best thing
that happened to Aiden.
Haley hugs Sophia tightly, caressing her arm.
SOPHIA
And you... I'll come visit.
Haley smiles, walking to the car with Sophia. They hug.
HALEY
What's a Venmo?
Sophia shakes her head. Sharing a laugh, she gets in the car.
Haley waves as she drives away. She walks to the crematorium.
EXT. CREMATORIUM - NIGHT
Haley exits, pouring gasoline on the floor from two red cans.
She pours some gas in the hearse and climbs the porch steps.
INT. HALEY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Haley opens the closet, grabbing her elegant blue graduation
dress with wildflowers. She wears it with teary eyes. She
heads to the door, snatching the Turkish eye on her way out.
INT. FUNERAL HOME - LIVING ROOM - LATER
Haley closes her bedroom door, pouring gasoline on the floor
as she strides downstairs. She empties and tosses the cans.
She glances fondly at a beam with their height markings.
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - NIGHT
Haley holds a lit barn lantern. With a teary gaze, she tosses
it inside. It bursts as golden flames erupt.
Fiery red flames glow in her teary eyes. With a satisfied
smile, she lights a cigarette, taking a deep drag.
Haley strides toward the hearse, glancing at it with hatred.
She tosses the cigarette in, smiling. A raging fire whooshes.
HALEY
RIP, motherfucker!
She then steps toward the shed at the edge of the woods. Oli
and Ava come out of it upon hearing her footsteps.
EXT. WOODS - NIGHT
The moonlight shines on Haley, Oli, and Ava as they traipse
through the trees, gathering wildflowers. Bright fireflies
glow their faces as they arrange the flowers into bouquets.
Haley turns around, watching their home engulfed in blood red
flames. It collapses with a loud thud. Oli glances at her.
HALEY
I don't want another soul trapped
in there. It ends with us.
Haley fights back her tears, her voice trembling at the loss.
EXT. FUNERAL HOME - NIGHT
FIRE MARSHALS monitor the fire from a fire truck, shrugging.
FIRE MARSHAL 1
How did that lawyer get the burn
permit so fast...? Rich people!
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
59 -
Facing Fears in the Woods
EXT. WOODS - NIGHT
Haley rushes. Ava's delicate hand grips her wrist, trembling.
AVA
Haley... I'm scared.
Fear fills Ava's eyes. Stunned, Haley drops to her knees,
hugging her and crying. Oli, surprised, jumps for joy.
AVA (CONT'D)
The woods scare me...
(tugs on Oli's sleeve)
Hi, Owly!
Oli flashes a bright smile. Haley cradles Ava's face fondly.
HALEY
I was scared, too. Not the woods,
but the people who use it as cover.
Ava nods. Haley reassures her with a kiss as Oli hugs them.
HALEY (CONT'D)
We'll face our fears together and
build the most amazing dollhouse.
AVA
Is it true what you said about
Aiden? Was he stupid?
HALEY
I lied. I didn't want them to see
our love... To keep you safe.
Haley kisses her cheek. Oli joins them in a group hug. They
walk past a family of four deer, roaming freely.
Aiden stands, arms crossed in his spanking-new blue suit with
custom sleeves, adjusting the silver cuffs. Haley glances at
him with a bright smile as they reach the giant sequoia tree.
AIDEN
I was stupid. I wish I didn't lose
hope and saw it through with you.
HALEY
You did... You fixed your suit?
AIDEN
No. You did!
Haley glances at Aiden fondly. They peek at Oli and Ava
talking, sharing everything they've wanted to for years.
She grabs Oli's and Ava's hands, kneeling down with them.
Their knees touch the damp earth.
Haley places the flowers on an unmarked grave. Her voice
trembles as she pays homage to Aiden.
HALEY
This is where Aiden rests... Let's
pray for him.
They bow with praying hands. Oli and Ava place flowers on his
grave with teary eyes. Haley hugs them as Aiden smiles.
Twigs snap behind them. They turn around, staring at the
ground. WOOF! A newborn golden wolf puppy wags its tail,
running toward them. Oli and Ava kneel, petting him. WOOF!
OLI AVA
Can we -- keep him? Please, Haley.
Oli glances at Haley. Haley peeks at his sad, innocent face.
She picks up the puppy from them. Oli and Ava stand up.
HALEY
He's a wild animal, not a pet.
Haley kisses the puppy with teary eyes.
HALEY (CONT'D)
But I'm not leaving you behind in
the woods. What should we name him?
Ava jumps for joy, hugging Haley's leg. Oli pets the puppy.
HALEY (CONT'D)
We found him in the woods... Woody?
Oli and Ava nod, approving of it with a smile. Haley winks.
Genres:
["Drama","Thriller","Family"]
Ratings
Scene
60 -
Embracing the Unknown
EXT. AUTO WORKSHOP - DAWN
The rising sun paints an orange smile on Aiden's El Camino.
Bastian, the mechanic, steps out, waving at them. He hands
Haley the keys. She nods, shaking his hand confidently.
HALEY
You got Venmo?
Bastian nods. Haley steps toward the El Camino, smiling.
INT. EL CAMINO - DAWN
Haley opens the door to the red interior. Searches for Aiden,
whimpering softly. Ava and Oli jump in the back with Woody.
She rolls the window down and tosses Danny's steel razor deep
into the abyss, exhaling deeply. She puts on a sad smile.
HALEY
Buckle up and make a list of all
the Happy Meals on the way.
She grabs her phone and sends Frost an audio message.
HALEY (CONT'D)
We're going to NYU! Love, Haley.
Haley hangs the Turkish Eye, adjusting the rearview mirror.
Aiden sits shotgun, winking at her with a bright smile.
AIDEN
Take me with you. Where to?
HALEY
New York... like you always wanted.
AIDEN
You don't have a license.
HALEY
I'll kick you out. I'm a rebel and
I learned from the best.
Oli and Ava watch her talk to the empty seat with a smile.
AVA
Who are you talking to?
Haley turns around to face Oli and Ava with hesitation.
HALEY
You know how Haley is a li'l crazy,
'cause I don't take my ADHD meds?
OLI AVA
A little? Duh!
HALEY
(smiles, rolling her eyes)
I see Aiden... He's here, next to
me. You wanna ask him anything?
Oli gasps. Ava covers his mouth before he can speak.
AVA
It's my turn. I'm glad he can hear
me. We miss you, Aiden...
EXT. HIGHWAY - DAY
The world expands ahead of them. Shadows retreat behind as
Haley drives the El Camino into the sunrise beyond a bridge.
INT. EL CAMINO - DAY
Aiden taps the parking brake, sharing a laugh with Haley. She
watches the woods shrink to a distant memory in the rearview
mirror. The El Camino merges onto I-95 toward New York.
HALEY
We'll embrace the unknown together.
Aiden's dream, now Haley's!
CUT TO BLACK.
THE END