The Long Drive

FADE IN:

EXT. HOTEL - MID-MORNING

We see the exterior of a nice hotel. The surrounding foliage is turning golden and there is a football stadium and mountains in the background.

INT. HOTEL RESTAURANT - CONTINUOUS

WILLIE, middle-aged, thin, with gray unkempt hair, is wearing jeans and a football jersey. He has a beer in his hand, and even though it's early, its obvious it isn't his first of the day. A WAITRESS, mid-twenties, comes up to him.

WAITRESS:

Good morning sir...

Willie stirs.

WILLIE:

(slurred)

Yes?

WAITRESS:

Err... we don't allow guests to bring their own alcohol into the restaurant.

WILLIE:

Sorry. It's just that I like to have a few on game day.

WAITRESS:

But, sir... the game doesn't start until this afternoon.

Willie smiles

WILLIE:

Well, no point in waiting until the last minute, is there?

INT. HOTEL RESTAURANT - MOMENTS LATER

Two guys approach Willie. MUNTZ, is tall, late 40s, built like he might have played college football. Even though he's dressed casually, he looks like his birth was a formal event. The other man, DOUGLAS, is in his early 30s, also dressed casually, but on him it looks natural.

As they approach, Muntz smiles and reaches out to shake hands.

MUNTZ:

Say, you must be Willie.

Willie eyes them carefully.

WILLIE:

Do I know you?

Without bidding Muntz sits. Douglas does not.

MUNTZ:

Oh sure you do. We're the guys your buddy Roscoe told you about.

WILLIE:

I know a Roscoe. But he's not my "buddy".

Muntz struggles to keep a smile on his face. Douglas casually steps in.

DOUGLAS:

In any case, we heard that you had some financial instruments that you might sell at a discount.

WILLIE:

I have no idea what you're talking about. And besides, you two don't look like financial types.

Muntz barges in, impatient.

MUNTZ:

Hey, let's stop playing games. We checked you out and we know you have some... shall we say, unregistered, instruments for sale. And, as my partner said, if they're good, your end would be significant.

WILLIE:

As I said, you've got the wrong guy. I'm just here to see the game. Excuse me.

Willie starts to get up. Muntz puts his hand on Willie's shoulder and forces him down into his chair. Due to the public space, Muntz contains his anger and bends down and twists Willie's arm behind him.

WILLIE:

Hey!

With his free hand, Muntz shows Willie an FBI badge and ID. He nods toward Douglas who also shows an FBI ID.

MUNTZ:

(quietly)

Ok, scumbag listen. We did get a tip, and not a financial one. We have been tracking you for months. We now know what you are and what you do.

Willie tries to break free. Muntz twists his arm further to control him.

MUNTZ:

Shhhh. Quiet Willie. We're in a nice hotel here.

Muntz eases up on Willie's arm a bit.

WILLIE:

Ok, ok.... I never said I had anything to sell. You have nothing.

MUNTZ:

Oh but we do. We have photos, videos and phone conversations.

Willie slumps a bit.

MUNTZ:

I have to admit that you are careful, very careful. We never would have even caught on to you if not for a tip.

WILLIE:

Yeah, I am careful. That's why I know that Roscoe couldn't have given you the tip.

Muntz smiles.

MUNTZ:

I never said it was Roscoe. He's too low in the food chain for the info we got.

Willie is trying to think.

MUNTZ:

Okay, now let's talk about those bonds. You got them from Carlita didn't you?

Willie straightens.

WILLIE:

I don't know what your talking about.

Douglas notices more people in the restaurant.

DOUGLAS:

Psst... Muntz.

Muntz understands. He applies pressure and Willie winces.

MUNTZ:

OK, scumbag, here's what's going to happen. We have a room here, we're going to head up there, nice and quite, like friends. We even have some beer up there for you. But, if you try anything stupid I'll break your arm. OK?

Willie nods.

WILLIE:

But... you have nothing..

MUNTZ:

Oh we have plenty of evidence, including a couple of witnesses. And if you don't want to end up in prison for a very long time you WILL talk to us about Carlita. Got it?

He twists Willie's arm again.

WILLIE:

Sure, sure...

Muntz and Willie slowly rise up and the three of them move out toward the hotel elevators.

INT. ELEVATORS - CONTINUOUS

The three enter. Muntz and Douglas behind Willie. They turnaround facing toward the front of the elevator, Willie closest to the doors. As the doors close Willie mumbles.

WILLIE:

And such a beautiful day for a game.

EXT. NEIGHBORHOOD STREET – MID-MORNING

It is a cool crisp fall morning in a college town. The leaves are turning. We move closer to a nice mid-level home with a riot of flowers in the front. The camera moves to the front door and into the home.

INT. JOHN’S HOME – MOMENTS LATER

As we enter, a female voice is singing in the kitchen. There are also the sounds of breakfast being prepared.

The home is well kept, neat and comfortable. There are lots of books and a poster of Tuscany on the wall. There are photos of a happy middle-aged couple and two photos of younger couples. In one of the photos of the younger couple, the girl is pregnant.

A stuffed bear with a “Get Better” shirt is on a shelf. Next to that is a bronze sobriety coin in a frame. The camera moves on toward a bedroom.

INT. BEDROOM – MOMENTS LATER

The bed is mussed. Sounds of water running, and singing, are coming from the bathroom. JOHN, a man in his early sixties, good looking in a comfortable sort of way, comes out of the bathroom humming. He is wearing a towel.

He moves to the mirror and there is another poster of Italy next to it. John smiles at and turns on a music player near him. Italian music starts to play. He is messing with his hair, but has to give up because sadly, he has very little. He shrugs and starts singing loudly.

INT. KITCHEN – MOMENTS LATER

HELEN, an attractive middle-aged blonde woman is in the kitchen at the range cooking bacon. The sun is streaming in behind her creating a golden halo of her hair. She hears music and some bad, but enthusiastic, singing coming from the bedroom and she smiles and shakes her head.

She turns toward the table and places two plates of food on it and sits.

INT. KITCHEN – MOMENTS LATER

Helen has just sat down at the kitchen table.

HELEN:

Was that you I heard… or was it Pavarotti?

JOHN:

Very funny...

HELEN:

No, no I got it. It was Bocelli!

JOHN:

That stay in the hospital must have addled your brain.

HELEN:

Too bad it didn’t make me deaf.

John smiles, leans down and kisses her.

JOHN:

I’m just glad you’re OK… What are you doing today?

She gets a sly smile.

HELEN:

Well, as you can see I have prepared us both a hearty breakfast. Then, since I am feeling better than I have in months, I thought it was time that after breakfast we could have some "dessert".

John is a little distracted, checking his phone.

JOHN:

That is so nice, but I don't have time for a big breakfast. There is a game today so I thought it would be a good day to go driving.

He reaches for some toast.

HELEN:

(Quietly)

And, dessert?

John is still distracted checking his phone.

JOHN:

What?

HELEN:

Nothing, I guess I'll get started in getting the garden ready for winter.

As John fills a coffee cup, Helen looks concerned.

HELEN:

Wait, I thought you were going to the game with the guys?

JOHN:

We can’t get to Italy if I'm going to football games. A promise is a promise.

HELEN:

You know I really don’t care about Italy. With all we’ve gone through… you need to relax.

JOHN:

(defensively)I relax.

Helen is doubtful.

HELEN:

Please, John... You've never relaxed. You've been driven ever since I’ve known you.

JOHN:

Helen... the trip to Italy is an important promise. I wanted to earn your love.

HELEN:

Oh dear... love isn't earned, it just is.

She reaches to touch his face.

HELEN:

And you have all of mine.

John tears up.

JOHN:

Me too. But, the money isn't just for travel. It's the medical bills too.

Helen stands and hugs her husband.

HELEN:

Hey, everything will be Okay. Relax... grandpa.

With this last word she has a gleam in her eyes. They kiss and John smiles.

HELEN:

You really need to give yourself a break. Remember the serenity prayer?

JOHN:

I do. But a promise is a promise.

Helen faces John directly, pauses, looking serious and very determined.

HELEN:

I don't blame you for what happened to me. Staying sober is the only promise to me that really counts.

John looks down.

JOHN:

It's just that when you got sick... I guess I became more that just a workaholic.

John looks up determined and smiles.

JOHN:

But… I have not had a drink since you got out of the hospital.

Helen is looking firmly at John, then sighs.

HELEN:

And that, is the only promise I'm going to hold you to. As for rest of it, Italy included, is the extra money worth us drifting apart?

JOHN:

I hear you. But I don't intend to break ANY promise.

Helen looks at him closely, then her face lights up with one of those smiles that men dream of, then kisses him.

HELEN:

I believe you. Sit with me and have some breakfast.

JOHN:

Thanks, I really want to get an early start on the day.

John moves off with a piece of toast, leaving the kitchen. Helen rolls her eyes and gets up to follow.

HELEN:

(Quietly sarcastic)Yeah, you relax.

EXT. JOHN’S HOME – MOMENTS LATER

John is getting into his car, a RideShare sticker is on the window. He is adjusting his phone in a holder on the dashboard. Helen comes up and leans over the drivers side window.

HELEN:

Well, at least be careful.

JOHN:

I’m always careful. I’m a great driver.

HELEN:

Oh, I know you’re safe, but I just get concerned, you know, having strangers in the car. It’s those people I don’t trust.

JOHN:

Don’t worry, most people are basically good, and didn’t I handle that nut job in Old Town last month?

HELEN:

Yeah, you did...

She doesn’t look convinced

JOHN:

Yeah, I did. You worry too much.

John, turns on Italian music, smiles big time, waves and drives away. Helen smiles back and waves.

HELEN:

If you love them, let them go... dessert, or not.

INT. APARTMENT – LATE-MORNING

The living room is neat and bare, almost clinical. The room has some modern art but no photos. Entering the bedroom, there is a young woman in the bed.

CHARLES, is 30+, tall, slim, like a reptile. He enters from the bathroom in slacks, open shirt, tie loose, and frowns.

CHARLES:

What the f*** are you still doing here? I thought you were leaving me?

The YOUNG WOMAN is 20 years old, pretty, with light brown hair. She looks up and smiles.

YOUNG WOMAN:

It is over between us… but, sh*t… I also know what you’ve gone through. I just couldn’t slip out last night. That would have been a real a**hole move. I thought I could make some breakfast and we could talk.

Charles looks away.

YOUNG WOMAN:

...after what happened in Chicago, I know you feel you need to prove something to someone. But you don’t need to prove a f***ing thing to me. That’s not why I’m leaving.

CHARLES:

So... it's not me?

YOUNG WOMAN:

Well... It's the life...

CHARLES:

A life you were a part of, I might add.

YOUNG WOMAN:

Here's the thing... when we met, even though you were in the business, no one was ever kinder to me. (pause) You gave me hope.

As Charles turns back, his face is sad and almost pleading.

CHARLES:

So, don't leave.

YOUNG WOMAN:

You were kind... but now that you think you have something to prove, well...

CHARLES:

Damn right!

YOUNG WOMAN:

But, you've become cruel.

Charles starts to talk and she stops him.

YOUNG WOMAN:

There was a time when I would take whatever sh*t I needed to just to live. But Charlie...

Charles stiffens.

YOUNG WOMAN:

Sorry, Charles, your kindness helped me find self worth. I can't go back now. You saved me, but now you're driving me away.

CHARLES:

So you are leaving...?

She nods.

CHARLES:

After what happened in Chicago and I was sent... after I left, I wasn’t sure you would follow me. I guess, sh*t...I hoped last night meant you might stay.

YOUNG WOMAN:

I know that Chicago wasn’t your fault, that f***ing family wasn’t going to blame one of their own. That would be too f***ing logical for them. You were lucky you were just exiled.

At this Charles stiffens further.

YOUNG WOMAN:

F***... I just felt I needed to say, you know... what I needed to say personally. I just can’t be a part of that kind of degenerate, f***ed up life anymore. I know I can do better.

She smiles.

YOUNG WOMAN:

So, how about some breakfast?

CHARLES:

No. You’ve made your choice.

She starts to plead.

YOUNG WOMAN:

But... Sh*t... Charlie...

Charles twitches.

CHARLES:

You know I don’t like to be called that! That was what my dad called me. And he was a f***ing loser! That’s what got him killed. (beat)I AM NOT A LOSER!

She shrinks back.

YOUNG WOMAN:

F***... I know...

CHARLES:

The only problem with Chicago is that they couldn’t handle someone outside of the family who had any ambition.

He starts to settle down a little.

CHARLES:

At least out here, I've got the chance to take over a crew. Something my f***ing dad never had the balls to do.

YOUNG WOMAN:

Be careful, Charles, Carlita can be dangerous.

Charles almost explodes.

CHARLES:

Be careful? Carlita is the one who needs to be careful! I've been working on something for months. She won't know what hit her.

Charles looks down at her with great malice. She shrinks back.

CHARLES:

OUT!

YOUNG WOMAN:

What the f***...! Sh*t... Charlie!

He grabs her, they struggle and he pulls her out of bed and shoves her out of the bedroom. He follows. We hear a scuffle and a door opening.

CHARLES (V.O.)

You want out... F*** you, OUT! And don’t call me Charlie!

The front door slams shut. Charles returns and walks to the mirror. He settles himself. He doesn’t smile as he finishes grooming. As he finishes, his phone rings.

ROSCOE (V.O.)

Carlita's ready.

CHARLES:

Yeah.

He ends the call.

CHARLES:

So am I.

INT. HOTEL ROOM – LATE-MORNING

Willie is seated around a table in a hotel room. There are beer cans on the table.

Seated across from Willie is Muntz. Muntz is impatient and struggles to keep a permanent scowl off his face. Agent Douglas is standing nearby holding some electronic gear.

MUNTZ:

I can't believe it. We've been at this for hours. And we still need to pick up the bonds.

Willie is shaking his head.

MUNTZ:

Willie, if you don't snitch, you're f***ed. Have you got that!

Willie’s speech is slurred.

WILLIE:

Yeah, yeah… I got it.

MUNTZ:

Well, after a year of my time, you'd better.

(pause)

DO YOU UNDERSTAND!

WILLIE:

YEAH! I need to get her to, umm, admit how she got those bonds... You don’t have to be an a**hole about it.

Muntz calms himself down and tries to put on a sincere smile. He can’t quite pull it off, but softens his tone a bit.

MUNTZ:

Hey, hey... we’re friends, right? If it wasn’t for me the AG would already have the evidence. You owe me.

Agent Douglas squirms uncomfortably. Willie struggles to stand up. He lurches to the right to get another beer.

EXT. CIRCULAR DRIVE/CARLITA'S HOME – NOON

CARLITA is a neatly dressed Latina in her late 40s. She is dressed for the outdoors but has the presence of someone heading to a board meeting. She approaches a black SUV. The driver, ROSCOE, is a Latino, a little older, with the look of someone used to taking orders. He's clean, but rumpled.

Walking next to Carlita is Charles, looking like he has something to prove. But he's also trying hard to not let his ambition show.

CARLITA:

You can drop me off at the game and take a couple hours for yourselves.

CHARLES:

I'm still against it. You shouldn't go by yourself.

CARLITA:

Hey, it’s the only time I get to relax.

Charles hides a smile that says "gotcha".

CHARLES:

But I don't trust that f***ing drunk.

CARLITA:

Willie? He’s a good friend and gets the best seats. And as far as his drinking goes, there but for the grace of God go I.

CHARLES:

(softly, almost as an aside)Picked someone’s f***ing pocket for the tickets I bet.

CARLITA turns on him.

CARLITA:

Oh, he hasn’t needed to pick pockets since we were kids. He contributes to the college now. He’s a patron.

CHARLES:

But do you trust him!?

Carlita stares at Charles. Her eyes, though very beautiful, could now melt steel. She speaks slowly, deliberately.

CARLITA:

He's been with us for over 20 years. He's never been caught, or even suspected. For that the organization trusts him. And more importantly, If it wasn’t for Willie, I’d be in prison right now. I owe him my life. This discussion is over.

Charles winces… recovers and looks contrite. He again hides a smile and then turns serious.

CHARLES:

Whatever you say... boss.

Carlita holds his stare a moment longer.

They continue to the SUV, Charles a little behind Carlita. As they arrive at the SUV Roscoe holds the back door open for Carlita. She starts to make a call when she is interrupted.

JIM (V.O.)

Morning Carla

Carlita turns toward her neighbor JIM, middle aged, holding his newspaper.

CARLITA:

Oh, morning Jim. How are you?

JIM:

Great, thanks. Sorry to interrupt. You seem to be on the phone every time I see you.

CARLITA:

Oh, you know, business never stops.

JIM:

Oh I get it. You're ambitious. But, you're going to the game today, right?

CARLITA:

We are.

JIM:

Should be a good one. Have fun. Don't work too hard.

CARLITA:

We will, and give my best to Sheila.

Jim smiles and waves as he turns away. Carlita waves and then turns to Charles.

CARLITA:

Oh, and Charlie… That reminds me... when it comes to business, ambition is good. Just be sure it doesn’t get in the way of your judgment.

Charles nods. As he turns away, his smile morphs into hate.

MONTAGE - JOHN BEING FRUSTRATED WITH RIDERS

-- John being given directions when clearly they are in opposition to what the app is indicating.

-- A kid bouncing around in the back seat while the parent doesn't seem to be paying attention.

-- "I am not a bus." He is having to wave a rider away from a busy street.

-- Rider talking loud on a phone and saying his drive is "an old guy".

INT. HOTEL ROOM – EARLY-AFTERNOON

Muntz and Douglas are fiddling with wires. They are trying to get a microphone on Willie, under his shirt. Willie is squirming, resisting.

MUNTZ:

Quit squirming.

WILLIE:

No.

DOUGLAS:

We’ve got to hurry; Carlita will be heading out soon.

WILLIE:

NO!

Willie tears away in anger, pulling a wire off his chest. Muntz grabs him, and turns him around by the shirt.

MUNTZ:

Jesus, look what you made me do! We’re going to have to start all over.

Muntz and Douglas try to feed a wire under Willie’s shirt. Willie pulls away again. Muntz throws up his hands in frustration.

MUNTZ:

Stop that! What’s the problem?

Since Willie is drunk, he’s a little hard to understand.

WILLIE:

Not doing it! Can’t do it.

Muntz shakes Willie.

MUNTZ:

Sure you can, we just need to get this wire...

Willie’s head is dropped almost to his chest. He is shaking it. He is trying to pull away.

WILLIE:

No, not that.

Muntz looks at Douglas, shrugs, then moves his head down so he can see into Willie’s face.

MUNTZ:

What are you saying, you f***ing drunk!

WILLIE:

Can’t do this... to my friend. I want out... Not this way!

Willie is crying.

Muntz looks at Douglas in disbelief.

MUNTZ:

Can you believe this a**hole?

Douglas shrugs. Muntz squares up, and straightens up Willie.

MUNTZ:

Well, you’re going to do this, or you’re going to prison! And we need those bonds?!

Muntz shoves Willie then turns away… He paces to calm down. He comes back to Willie, smiles and put’s an arm on Willie’s shoulder.

MUNTZ:

Hey, buddy, I know this is difficult. But, we’ve worked too long on this to back out now. I'm guessing you have those bonds locked up someplace safe, right?

Willie is avoiding looking at Muntz.

MUNTZ:

You do this and you’re out clean.

Willie still will not look at Muntz.

WILLIE:

I was clean...

MUNTZ:

Yeah, until someone ratted you out. (pause) But what's done is done. I'm here now to help you... we’re helping each other here. You get out, and I get out of this wasteland. That’s what friends do, help each other, right?

Willie is momentarily fixed by Muntz’s face, then straightens up and angrily shrugs away from Muntz.

WILLIE:

You’re not my friend! (pause)No. I’m not going to do it.

Willie stares at Muntz, then straightens up, chin out.

WILLIE:

Whatever I may have locked up, stays locked up. If I go to jail, OK. Least I won’t be a f***in' rat.

INT. HOTEL ROOM – MOMENTS LATER

Muntz is beside himself with anger. He is pacing in front of Douglas. Willie is in the background, head in hands.

DOUGLAS:

(quietly)Calm down

MUNTZ:

(hissing)I’ll show you calm down. That f***er is going to pay.

DOUGLAS:

You know our evidence is at best thin, it will never hold up. The AG won’t indict. We might even be accused of entrapment. We just thought Willie would panic.

MUNTZ:

That cocksucker was my ticket out of this hell hole!

Douglas stares at him for a moment, then steps in front of him to stop Muntz's pacing. Douglas captures his attention with a determined look.

DOUGLAS:

Hey, easy there… I’m from around here. Just because we’re west of the Boston Rowing Club doesn’t mean it’s a hell hole.

Muntz is surprised to see this side of Douglas.

MUNTZ:

You know what I mean… I’ve spent too much time and resources on this for it to not pan out.

Douglas tries to hide a small smile with his hand.

DOUGLAS:

Yeah… the boss is a little peeved about that.

Muntz looks at Douglas like he could kill him. Douglas pretends to not notice.

DOUGLAS:

So, what are we going to do?

Muntz is thinking and suddenly his face lights up.

MUNTZ:

Hey… you and I know the evidence against Willie is slim, but guess who doesn’t know that?

DOUGLAS:

Willie?

MUNTZ:

Of course, Willie doesn’t know, you idiot. But Carlita doesn’t know either.

Douglas looks like he has been slapped. He is getting angry.

DOUGLAS:

Carlita isn’t supposed to know. That’s how a sting works. Remember? It’s in all of the manuals.

Douglas is bracing for Muntz’s retaliation. But, Muntz just continues to smile at him. Douglas sighs.

DOUGLAS:

OK, So, how does that help us?

MUNTZ:

If Carlita thought Willie, her friend, was going to rat on her, it might shake her up enough to make a mistake.

DOUGLAS:

What kind of mistake?

MUNTZ:

We might be able to lure her in to trying to kill Willie.

Muntz pauses.

DOUGLAS:

Wait, what?

MUNTZ:

If we can't get her on stolen bonds, attempted murder is just as good. Even better. Yeah, it might just work.

DOUGLAS:

You can't be serious?

MUNTZ:

It has to work.

Douglas looks over at Willie, pauses…

DOUGLAS:

Muntz, I had heard that you were ambitious, and bent the rules a bit, but now, your playing with lives.

Muntz finally realizes Douglas has been talking to him.

MUNTZ:

What, f***, don't be such a Boy Scout. Willie is a drunk, a criminal, and now worthless to us.

DOUGLAS:

So your going to just serve him up to Carlita?

MUNTZ:

No, of course not. We'll get rid of him, somehow, so he's not in danger. Beside he would probably mess up anything we might setup anyway.

DOUGLAS:

Okay... maybe. But to do what your thinking, we would have to do it quickly. How can we do that?

MUNTZ:

Oh I think I have a contact that can help.

Muntz starts to pull out his phone.

MUNTZ:

In the meantime, figure out how we can get rid of Willie, very quietly.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (MOVING) – EARLY-AFTERNOON

The environment is tense. Roscoe’s eyes are shifting between Charles and Carlita.

CARLITA:

Charles, I know your ambitious... I know that you’ve been doing some business on the side.

Charles smiles and tries to look innocent. Carlita holds his gaze for a moment.

CARLITA:

Hey, a little on the side is OK. I like initiative... as long as you don’t get any bigger ideas.

It’s Carlita’s turn to smile.

CARLITA:

Oh and I have heard some rumblings that someone might have talked to the FBI. In our business, there is always that risk. We know how to handle it. I just hope it’s not you... Charlie.

Charles smiles with gritted teeth. Carlita's phone rings. She continues to smile for a moment longer before turning to answer a call.

CARLITA:

Yeah, sorry... I was just handling a little issue here.

EXT. JOHN’S CAR (STILL) – EARLY-AFTERNOON

John is parked and has the back seat door open. He is using a spray bottle and rag to clean up a mess.

JOHN:

Who the hell drinks a milkshake in the morning!

He stands, rubs his back and refers to his notebook. The notebook shows his earnings towards the Italian trip. He writes down “$4.57” and frowns.

JOHN:

Maybe you were right dear.

As he turns to get into the car his phone app sounds off. It shows he has a ride request… “45 min+”. He smiles.

JOHN:

(smiling)That’s more like it!

John gets into the car and drives off.

EXT. HOTEL PARKING LOT – EARLY-AFTERNOON

Muntz and Douglas have Willie at the side entrance of the hotel. Willie is sitting on a planter and slumped over. Muntz is on his phone.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (MOVING) – SAME

Charles turns away from Carlita.

INTERCUT PHONE CONVERSATION

MUNTZ:

Are you with her now?

CHARLES:

I am.

MUNTZ:

Ok, just listen, the drunk wouldn't go for it. He's useless to us.

CHARLES:

That is unfortunate.

MUNTZ:

So listen, we can both come out of this with what we want. Even though Willie won't squeal, you still need to convince Carlita that he will.

CHARLES:

Go on.

MUNTZ:

I know she is usually a cool customer, but if she thinks Willie betrayed her she might lose her cool.

CHARLES:

And...

MUNTZ:

Don't you get it? If she comes after Willie we could get her on attempted murder.

CHARLES:

I see what you're saying, where would this occur?

MUNTZ:

No you don't. I don't trust you... and of course you don't trust me.

CHARLES:

Naturally.

MUNTZ:

So, lets just say we'll set something up east of here. You just need to tell her Willie's snitching, convince her. If you do that then later I'll let you know where it will go down.

CHARLES:

Of course you know if this information is not, correct, I can hurt you.

MUNTZ:

You don't scare me. I've been dealing with punks like you for twenty years. You do your part and we both get what we want. Got it?

CHARLES:

Yes, thanks for the tip.

Charles ends the call and turns toward Carlita.

CARLITA:

What was that about?

CHARLES:

That was one of my contacts with the cops.

CARLITA:

And...?

CHARLES:

Well, the word is out, there is a sting set up at the game. We need to turn around.

CARLITA:

Is your contact sure?

CHARLES:

He's never been wrong.

CARLITA:

How was this set up?

CHARLES:

Yeah, like I expected... It was Willie.

Roscoe looks at her in the mirror.

ROSCOE:

We headed back home boss?

CARLITA:

Give me a minute.

EXT. HOTEL PARKING LOT – EARLY-AFTERNOON

Muntz turns as he ends the call and smiles but Douglas is worried.

MUNTZ:

Did you arrange the RideShare?

DOUGLAS:

Yeah, it will be here soon, but why RideShare? That’s dangerous. He may be a drunk and a criminal, but we're still responsible for his safety.

MUNTZ:

You said it yourself, the higher ups don’t like how much resources I’ve used so far. I’m not calling for transport. And besides we don’t have time. We have to move quickly to set up a dummy "Willie" for her to go after.

Douglas looks at Muntz for a long time.

DOUGLAS:

I get what your trying to do. But what if Carlita finds out it's a trap? We don't know what she might do. People could die.

MUNTZ:

Relax, My contact will keep me informed of where she is at all times. Once we have the dummy set up I can make sure she heads there and not after Willie.

DOUGLAS:

Look, there's playing fast and loose, but we're putting peoples lives at risk, without their knowledge.

MUNTZ:

(angrily)That drunk will be fine. But frankly that a**hole screwed up everything and gets whatever he deserves...

When Muntz sees that Douglas is shocked, he smiles and puts his arm around his shoulders.

MUNTZ:

Hey, you worry too much. Carlita won’t figure it out. And I won't let my contact know where he's headed. So, the only way to find Willie is through his phone.

Muntz raises his hand, a phone is in it.

MUNTZ:

And I have it.

Muntz grins as he slips the phone into his jacket pocket. Douglas shrugs away.

From behind, Willie, not quite as drunk as assumed, sees Muntz slip the phone into his pocket.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR – (MOVING) – AFTERNOON

ROSCOE:

Boss? home?

CARLITA:

Yeah, if Willie is in trouble I know where he will head. He'll get a hold of me if he needs help.

MUNTZ:

You not going to take care of the snitch?

CARLITA:

Willie would never betray me. Your contact is wrong!

CHARLES:

No, really. He's never been wrong. You remember those bonds that Willie was going to fence?

CARLITA:

Yeah…

CHARLES:

Well, Willie screwed up and the FBI has his f***ing nuts in a vice. They're doing a deal so he can get off by setting you up at the game.

Carlita turns away to stare out a side window.

CARLITA:

I still don’t think he would do it. There must be another explanation.

INT. JOHN’S CAR (STILL) – HOTEL PARKING LOT – MOMENTS LATER

John is driving up to where the trio is standing and notices one is staggering.

JOHN:

Sh*t.

EXT. HOTEL PARKING LOT – MOMENTS LATER

Muntz is talking to John through the driver’s window. Muntz has his best fake smile on.

MUNTZ:

Hey, how’s it going?

JOHN:

(smiling, but suspicious) OK, what’s up here?

John nods toward Willie.

MUNTZ:

Yeah, he's had a bit to drink. We were supposed to watch the game from the President’s Box, but we can’t let Willie, that’s his name, embarrassing the college.

JOHN:

Yeah... I can see that. But, he looks so drunk... he’s not going to barf in my car, is he?

While John and Muntz are talking Willie is actually acting a little more drunk than he really is. He staggers towards Muntz.

MUNTZ:

Naw, he may talk your ears off, but he won’t barf.

John pauses to consider.

JOHN:

OK, fair enough. It’s a long drive, and maybe he’ll sleep most of the way. Oh, and what’s the deal, the request came in from a James, not Willie?

MUNTZ:

Yeah, that was my buddy. Willie was so drunk he lost his phone and we had to make the request.

John looks a little concerned, then notices Willie staggering towards them. He points.

JOHN:

Hey, watch out!

Willie staggers into Muntz. In the process, we see that his hand has slipped his phone out of Muntz’s pocket.

Agent Douglas rushes to pull Willie off of Muntz.

DOUGLAS:

Easy there, Willie.

JOHN:

Hey, are you sure he’s OK? As my wife might say: "the money may not be worth the hassle."

MUNTZ:

No, he’s fine. He won’t be any problem.

Muntz looks at John and smiles again.

MUNTZ:

I tell you what, when I see that you’ve completed the trip, I’ll send you a nice big tip.

John considers the situation. Muntz gets impatient.

MUNTZ:

Ok, look… I know this will take a couple of hours. So, if he really gets to be a real pain in the ass you have my permission to drop him off anywhere you want. You’ll still get a nice long drive and a good tip. Whad'ya say? Easy money.

John thinks, then looks down at the notebook.

JOHN:

Yeah, OK. It’s a deal. Can you help pour him into the front seat? The back seat is still wet from a clean up.

Douglas and Muntz start to guide Willie into the car.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR – (MOVING) – AFTERNOON

Charles looks exasperated.

CHARLES:

So, you're going to let him off?

CARLITA:

This is not up for discussion.

CHARLES:

Hey, you know Willie. He's a drunk.(pause)He brought this on himself.

Carlita is still staring out the window.

CARLITA:

Yeah… Maybe he's in trouble, but no, he wouldn’t betray me. He's like my brother.

CHARLES:

Sh*t… No maybe about it. I doubt Willie can stand up to any kind of pressure.

Carlita is silent.

CHARLES:

Hey, what is wrong with you? We need to find that cocksucker and kill him… and anyone he might have talked to.

Carlita turns to look at Charles a very long time.

CARLITA:

Let me show you something.

She brings out her phone.

CARLITA:

Have you ever noticed the wallpaper on my phone?

CHARLES:

No.

She shows him a photo of a pretty YOUNG CARLITA, YOUNG WILLIE and an OLDER, DISTINGUISHED MAN between them, all smiling

CARLITA:

This is me, Willie and my uncle the day after Willie got me out of some serious trouble.

CHARLES:

So?

CARLITA:

In helping me, Willie got himself in some trouble he could have easily avoided.

CHARLES:

I knew he was always a jailbird.

CARLITA:

No, he avoided jail, but he got in serious trouble with his own family.

CHARLES:

Again, so?

She holds up the phone again.

CARLITA:

Because of what he did for me this became his family, our family. (beat) Charles, I heard what had happened to your father. So, when Chicago called, I thought maybe you could also become a part of our family.

CHARLES:

I don't need any f***ing family. And family or not, we need to kill Willie!

CARLITA:

I said NO!! Got it, Charlie?

INT. JOHN’S CAR – (MOVING)- EARLY-AFTERNOON

Willie is slumped in the passenger seat and John is focused on the navigation on his phone.

WILLIE:

(slurred)Hey, can we stop for a beer?

JOHN:

No, we just got started. We're not stopping for a beer.

Willie shrugs and pulls out his phone.

JOHN:

Hey, I thought your friend said you lost your phone?

Willie turns toward John, fire in his eyes.

WILLIE:

He's not my friend! I got only one friend, and he ain’t it.

John throws up a hand in defeat.

JOHN:

Hey, no offense intended. Whatever you say.

Willie, settles back. John shakes his head.

JOHN:

(softly)But for the grace of God…

INT. HOTEL ROOM – AFTERNOON

Muntz and Douglas are cleaning up their stuff and preparing to leave. Muntz is feeling his pocket and the color drains from his face.

Douglas notices.

DOUGLAS:

What?

MUNTZ:

Do you have Willie’s phone?

DOUGLAS:

No, you kept it.

MUNTZ:

Sh*t! Yeah... it’s gone.

DOUGLAS:

Gone?

MUNTZ:

I think that cocksucker lifted it.

Douglas can’t help himself, and suppresses a smile. Then he turns serious.

DOUGLAS:

Wait... If Willie calls Carlita, we’re done...!

Muntz looks upward.

MUNTZ:

F***... why me?

INT. JOHN’S CAR (MOVING) – AFTERNOON

JOHN:

You're Willie, right?

WILLIE:

Yeah.

JOHN:

I'm John (beat) so... ah, what do you do?

WILLIE:

Oh… a number of things.

Willie pauses, looks away, smiles then looks back.

WILLIE:

Hey, you want to hear about my cars?

JOHN:

Sure, what cars?

WILLIE:

Ahhh… just the sweetest muscle cars you can imagine. Got a 1964 Pontiac GTO and a 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Superbird, a couple others.

Willie smiles and is caught up in the reverie. John is expecting more... but Willie just continues to smile.

JOHN:

That’s pretty cool. I bet it’s really fun to take the family out for a ride.

Willie’s smile fades and looks down. John hesitates.

JOHN:

I’m sorry, you have family?

WILLIE:

Naw… Parents are long gone. And, haven’t found a woman able to put up with me for very long.

JOHN:

Sorry.

They drive for a while.

WILLIE:

You have family?

JOHN:

(smiling)Yeah, a wife and two grown daughters. One is pregnant with our first grandchild.

Willie looks a little miffed.

WILLIE:

OK, so with this great family, why are you way the hell out here driving a drunk?

John chooses to ignore a potential insult.

JOHN:

Well, actually I was supposed to go to the game with my friends. But, years ago I made a promise to my wife and I need the extra money for that.

Willie shakes his head.

WILLIE:

Well sh*t... aren’t we a pair. I got all of this money and no family, and you got a fine family and no money.

Willie stares out the side window.

WILLIE:

(softly)Sh*t.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (MOVING) – AFTERNOON

Carlita is calling Willie. We see on Carlita’s phone the contact’s name is “Yuma W”.

INT. JOHN’S CAR (MOVING)/INT. CARLITA’S CAR (MOVING) – SPLIT SCREEN - AFTERNOON

Willie sees the incoming call, and sobers up a bit.

WILLIE:

Hola, amiga I’ve been meaning to call you.(pause)I’ve had a drink or two.

CARLITA:

Yeah, I bet.

WILLIE:

Yeah... sorry, the game is off.

CARLITA:

That’s OK amigo. We can go the next time.(pause)Are you OK?

WILLIE:

Yeah I’m fine... Though I don’t think we’ll be doing any more games…

Willie pauses and clears his throat.

WILLIE:

...or anything else.

CARLITA:

Really, nothing?

Willie pulls himself together.

WILLIE:

Nothing. Besides, I might not be around for a while.

Now, Carlita looks sad, wipes her face.

CARLITA:

Oh... I had heard you had some problems. If it helps, that last deal will be my gift to you. I'll clear it with the organization.

Willie now looks determined.

WILLIE:

Thanks, but I just need you to stay away.

CARLITA:

You got it hermano.

Willie has a catch in this voice. Tries to speak, but can’t talk and hangs up.

END SPLIT SCREEN

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (MOVING) - CONTINUOUS

Carlita turns to Roscoe.

CARLITA:

Pull over.

INT. JOHN’S CAR (MOVING) – AFTERNOON

John notices that Willie seems depressed.

JOHN:

You OK? That seemed like a tough call.

Willie turns away from the window, shakes himself.

WILLIE:

Naw, I’m OK.

Willie notices the music playing. He points to the radio.

WILLIE:

What the hell is that?

John smiles.

JOHN:

“Nessun dorma”.

Willie is dumbstruck.

WILLIE:

F*** did you just say?

JOHN:

It’s an aria.

Willie just stares at John.

JOHN:

It’s Italian opera.

WILLIE:

Ohhhhh... You like that sh*t?

John is put off. He starts to reach for the radio.

JOHN:

I can change the music.

Willie motions him away from the radio.

WILLIE:

Hang on.

Willie listens with his eyes closed. He smiles.

WILLIE:

Never heard it before. Not half bad.

JOHN:

Yeah, kind of speaks to your soul, doesn’t it?

WILLIE:

Don’t know about that.(pause)So, what, you Italian?

JOHN:

Naw, but I do love Italy.

WILLIE:

Why’s that?

John isn’t sure he wants to share with this drunk.

WILLIE:

Ahh... come on, this is a long drive.

JOHN:

Well, before I was married a buddy set me up on a blind date. And this girl, I don’t remember her name, wanted to go to this movie.

Willie turns to him, to encourage him to continue.

JOHN:

Anyway, she wanted to go to this “chick flick”. I wasn’t thrilled with that or with her, but I went to be polite.(pause)Anyway, the movie was about these people who fall in love in Italy. The scenes were so beautiful that they just got to me.

Willie is settling back in his seat. John is smiling at the memory.

JOHN:

By the time the movie was over, I had almost forgotten about my date and was just thinking about Italy.(sighs)As we walked out of the theater, I bumped into a girl. When I looked up at her to apologize, I couldn’t speak.(pause)She looked just like this beautiful blond actress from the movie.

John is now smiling broadly.

JOHN:

And guess who that was?

John looks over to Willie in anticipation. Willie is asleep and lets out a loud snore.

John’s smile fades and he shakes his head.

JOHN:

(softly)Yeah, it was Helen.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (STILL) – AFTERNOON

CARLITA:

Ok, Roscoe, head home.

Charles turns back, astonished.

CHARLES:

Hey! Wait a f***ing minute. You’re not going to do anything about Willie?

CARLITA:

There’s’ nothing to do. He's like family to me, understand? Familia! (beat) I told you he wouldn't turn on me.

Charles is steaming and is about to blow.

CHARLES:

But, if he didn't, he was thinking about it, he talked! You can’t let that go!

CARLITA:

Yeah, I can... I said he's familia. Got that, Charlie!

CHARLES:

The organization won't buy it!

CARLITA:

It's my organization! (beat) Hey, I know what we do for money. But, Charlie... you still need some compassion.

CHARLES:

You need some balls!

Charles turns in his seat and shoots Carlita in the chest.

CHARLES:

Which, of course you never had.

INT. JOHN’S CAR (MOVING) – AFTERNOON

WILLIE:

Hey, can we stop for a smoke break?

JOHN:

Sure.

John pulls off on a side road.

EXT. JOHN’S CAR (STILL) – FARM ROAD - MOMENTS LATER

John and Willie are standing outside. Willie is turned away smoking and John is leaning over the car looking at the fields. He is admiring the golden fields and rolling hills.

JOHN:

(softly)Hey, I never realized how beautiful it is out here.

WILLIE:

(distracted)What?

JOHN:

Aw… nothing, never mind.

John goes back to admiring the scene. As John turns around to face the scene across the road, a large truck loaded with wheat, barrels over a rise behind him, and barely misses him. Willie doesn’t notice.

JOHN:

Sh*t!

Willie turns around.

WILLIE:

What?

JOHN:

Did you see that?

WILLIE:

What, the truck? Yeah, they're all over the place in the fall.

JOHN:

(Softly, to himself.)I guess Helen was right.

WILLIE:

What?

JOHN:

Nothing. You ready to go?

Willie nods and they get into the car and drive off. John looks a little worried and takes extra care in pulling out and onto the main road.

EXT. CARLITA’S CAR (STILL) – AFTERNOON

Charles and Roscoe are just loading the body of Carlita into the back of the SUV. As they do this her phone drops on the ground and Roscoe nervously picks it up.

Charles turns away to make a call.

INT. HOTEL ROOM – AFTERNOON

Muntz's phone rings. He moves over to the window, away from Douglas.

INTERCUT PHONE CONVERSATION

MUNTZ:

Yeah?

CHARLES:

I need to know now where Willie is headed.

MUNTZ:

I told you I would call when we were ready.

CHARLES:

Well, I don't need your setup anymore.

MUNTZ:

What do you mean? What about my investigation? What did you do?

CHARLES:

Screw your investigation. I took care of my problem. Now I need to be sure Willie won't be an issue.

Muntz slumps.

MUNTZ:

Look, I may bend the rules a bit, but I'm not going to help you kill someone.

Muntz is trying to talk quietly, but we can also tell that Douglas knows that something isn't right.

CHARLES:

Are you sure? We can still have a productive relationship.

MUNTZ:

I... I'm sure.

CHARLES:

Too bad, just don't get in my way. You wouldn't want the powers above to know about our past arrangements.

MUNTZ:

Hey, I've never done anything illegal!

CHARLES:

I'm sure your boss will believe you.

Charles ends the call with a smile.

INT. JOHN’S CAR (MOVING) – LATE-AFTERNOON

Willie startles himself awake with a snore.

John laughs.

JOHN:

It’s alive!

Willie shakes himself and focuses on John.

WILLIE:

Oh yeah, guess I knocked out for a while.

JOHN:

Yeah, I guess.

WILLIE:

Where the f*** are we?

JOHN:

We just passed Wiggins.

WILLIE:

That far? Say, I could use a beer. You?

John silently looks at him.

WILLIE:

Guess not.

JOHN:

Nope.

WILLIE:

Say, before, you said something about a promise. What’s that about?

JOHN:

Oh, it’s just that I promised my wife when we got married that I’d take her to Italy someday.

WILLIE:

Yeah, I get it, you really like Italy. Your wife likes Italy too? That’s why the promise?

JOHN:

Well, she was... is, so beautiful, and I didn’t expect she would give me the time of day.(pause)So, when I proposed, I promised to take her to Italy, to the place that brought us together.

WILLIE:

You haven’t gone?

John is embarrassed and defensive.

JOHN:

Well, we were going to go right away, but I needed to work and she got pregnant.

WILLIE:

And?

JOHN:

Well, we’ve been married more than 30 years now.

Willie interrupts.

WILLIE:

Whoa! Hard for me to imagine. So, why haven’t you gone before now?

John is now embarrassed that he has shared too much.

JOHN:

Let’s just say life happens, OK?

Willie realizes he might have stepped on some toes.

WILLIE:

Ok, ok... someone who stays with you for 30 years, that must be love. (beat) Just wish I had someone to make a promise to.

John suddenly realizes his problems are not so big and tries to cheer Willie up.

JOHN:

A personable guy like you. You must have someone.

Willie looks grim.

WILLIE:

No. No one.

Willie moves from sad to angry.

WILLIE:

All I got is cars, and money and stuff and NO friends and, and, and, just these shitty, MOTHER F***ERS who want...

At this point SIRI, on John’s phone, wakes up.

SIRI (V.O.)

I heard what you said, I’m just going to ignore it.

John and Willie stare at each other, speechless, then burst out laughing.

EXT. CARLITA’S CAR (STILL) – AFTERNOON

ROSCOE:

So, what are we doing?

Charles looks very confident.

CHARLES:

I’m taking over. Can you handle that?

ROSCOE:

I guess so. But, what do we do with Carl..., um... the body?

CHARLES:

She is fine where she is for now. First, we have to get to Willie, and anyone he might have talked to. (pause)If we don’t do that... the organization doesn't like any loose ends, We'll be done.

Roscoe looks doubtful as they get into the car.

INT. HOTEL ROOM – AFTERNOON

Muntz has just ended a call and is agitated. He's throwing around the items they were packing up.

DOUGLAS:

What's the matter?

MUNTZ:

Oh nothing, just that everything has blown up. We have nothing.

DOUGLAS:

What do you mean?

Muntz starts to answer when Douglas' phone rings. He looks at the number and hold up a finger to indicate he needs to take the call.

MUNTZ:

Just perfect.

Muntz walks over to the window as Douglas answers the call on the other side of the room.

DOUGLAS:

Yes?

AGENT (V.O.)

Agent Douglas?

DOUGLAS:

Yes.

AGENT (V.O.)

Yes sir. Surveillance here. You wanted updates on your phone taps?

He looks over at Muntz.

DOUGLAS:

You get something?

AGENT (V.O.)

We did see a call about an hour ago to someone who is on the watch list you provided.

DOUGLAS:

Go on.

AGENT:

Yes sir. In fact as I was preparing to call you another call was made to that same person just a minute ago. A Charles Fout.

DOUGLAS:

Okay, thanks.

AGENT (V.O.)

Of course. Do I send the usual notification to your section head?

Douglas pauses.

DOUGLAS:

Yes, thank you.

Douglas quietly ends the call.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (STILL) – MOMENTS LATER

ROSCOE:

OK, so how do we find Willie, only Carlita knew where he lived.

CHARLES:

(smiling)But, you forget... you dunce, we have her phone.

Roscoe pulls out a phone.

ROSCOE:

Ohhh. Yeah!

Roscoe scrolls through the contacts and does not see Willie in there. He is shaking his head.

Charles is impatient.

CHARLES:

What!

Roscoe scrolls through the contacts and there is no “Willie” in the “W”s.

ROSCOE:

He’s not in here. There’s no “Willie”.

CHARLES:

No f***ing way!

Charles grabs the phone out of Roscoe’s hand and frantically searches. He finally gives up, shoulders sag and looks out the window.

CHARLES:

Shitttt!

Roscoe is smart enough to know when to keep quiet, and shrinks a little.

Charles pulls himself together.

CHARLES:

I can still find that f***er. (pause)I’ll make some calls. And, we do know that he lives somewhere east of here, so... start driving east, towards the highway.

Roscoe does not react as quickly as Charles expects.

CHARLES:

NOW!

Roscoe startles and puts the car in gear.

INT. HOTEL ROOM – AFTERNOON

Muntz is on the phone. He is very nervous. The wind is out of his sails.

MUNTZ:

Yes, sir... I just need a little more time... Of course, sir but I’ve been working on this for so long...Well... I wouldn’t call it too long.

He is interrupted, and can’t get a word in.

MUNTZ:

Yes sir... but... er... but I...

Now he just listens for a moment.

MUNTZ:

Yes sir. I understand. What’s next?

Muntz smiles, his words tumble out.

MUNTZ:

Reassignment? Well of course sir. I was hoping... Yes sir. So, where do you need me... Chicago, Boston?

Muntz’s smile collapses.

MUNTZ:

Fargo!? You need me in Fargo? But sir...

Muntz braces to attention. In the background we see Douglas hiding a smile.

MUNTZ:

Yes sir, I’m sure North Dakota is a lovely place. Yes sir, he’s right here.

He hands the phone to Douglas and steps away.

DOUGLAS:

Sir? Yes sir. No problem. Thank you, sir. Is it okay if I first take a day to follow up on that concern we talked about? Yes... Again, thank you sir.

Douglas hangs up and turns to Muntz.

MUNTZ:

That pencil-necked a**hole has no idea what he's doing.

DOUGLAS:

What do you mean?

MUNTZ:

I have the highest closure rate in the region and he wants to exile me to the frozen tundra?

DOUGLAS:

But at what cost?

Muntz turns, not sure what he is hearing.

MUNTZ:

You sound like my ex. (pause) You have a family right.

DOUGLAS:

Yeah, we have a daughter and a son on the way.

MUNTZ:

Well, you'll see. They never understand what this job needs, what it does to you.

DOUGLAS:

What did it do to you?

MUNTZ:

You'll see. You work so hard to get these scum... then procedures, politics and the courts handcuff you at every step of the way. It's just so frustrating.

DOUGLAS:

So, is that why you started to play fast and loose with the law?

MUNTZ:

Yeah, I cut a few corners... But I never broke the law. I never stepped over the line.

DOUGLAS:

When you put innocent civilians at risk, I would say that is stepping over the line. Muntz, is someone going to die today?

MUNTZ:

How do I.... Wait, what... Is this your doing?

DOUGLAS:

There have been some suspicions for a while. I was just asked to keep an eye on things.

MUNTZ:

Well, I guess we are no longer partners.

DOUGLAS:

We are not.

MUNTZ:

So does this get you a nice promotion?

DOUGLAS:

No, but there is a new investigation I will be leading. But first I need to try to protect those who you put at risk.

MUNTZ:

Well, can you at least give me a ride to the airport?

DOUGLAS:

Sorry, no time. (pause) You could use a RideShare.

Muntz can only shake his head and walks away with slumped shoulders.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (MOVING) – LATE-AFTERNOON

Charles is on his phone, and not happy.

CHARLES:

Nothing? You shitting me? Keep checking... I pay you enough that you better f***ing come through. What? F*** you, I have troubles of my own. Now get on it!

Charles hangs up exasperated.

ROSCOE:

So?

CHARLES:

Nothing. My informants have nothing. There haven't been any requests for transport so far.

Charles looks up rubbing his face.

CHARLES:

And since there's no order for transport, my informants can’t tell me where Willie is, or is going.

Charles thinks for a bit.

CHARLES:

Just keep going east, I'll find him somehow. I've a lot of contacts. And they know if they don't come through, I will sh*t in their soup.

INT. JOHN’S CAR (MOVING) – LATE-AFTERNOON

WILLIE:

Hey, can we stop at that town up ahead? I need to talk to someone.

JOHN:

Where?

WILLIE:

There’s a guy, in this bar up ahead I need to talk to.

John is skeptical.

JOHN:

Bar huh? Hey, it’s getting late. I was going to get a nice tip if I get you home. And I want to get home myself. I don’t need you getting any drunker.

Willie’s temper is rising.

WILLIE:

Hey! I know I’m a drunk!

Willie sighs, looks sad, turns to John to plead his case.

WILLIE:

Hey, I just have some business in there. I’ll only be five minutes.

John looks into Willie's eyes for some indication of truth.

JOHN:

Five minutes? I cannot go in there to get you if you’re late. I’ll leave you here.

WILLIE:

Five... I promise.

John thinks for a moment, then smiles.

JOHN:

See, I knew you had someone you could make a promise to.

Willie smiles and looks like he might cry. He wipes at his eyes.

WILLIE:

Thanks.

They pull over and Willie gets out.

EXT. SMALL TOWN W/BAR / EXT. JOHN’S HOME GARDEN - SPLIT SCREEN – LATE-AFTERNOON

Willie enters the bar that looks either rundown or rustic, depending on if you’re a local or not. John gets out of the car to stretch. He makes a call.

Helen is kneeling in her garden, gloves on her hands, putting peppers in a basket. She puts the basket down to answer the phone.

JOHN:

Hey, It's me.

HELEN:

I’m glad you called.

JOHN:

I just wanted to talk to you. I miss you. I got this long drive with this character but it’s almost finished.

Helen turns, she is more focused on the call now.

HELEN:

What do you mean character? Are you safe?

JOHN:

I told you, you worry too much. I’m fine and this drive is almost over. I’ll tell you all about it when I get home.

Helen relaxes.

HELEN:

OK, hurry home. Jane and Bill are coming for dinner.

As John is talking, he is looking around him at the fields on the outskirts of the town. The fields are golden in the afternoon sun. The wind is causing waves in the crops and the surrounding trees.

JOHN:

Great, I’m looking forward to that.

There is a pause while he smiles at the scene around him.

JOHN:

You know, I never realized that it can be kind of pretty out here. Peaceful even.

Helen looks a little quizzical.

HELEN:

Hello, who is this, and what have you done with my hard charging husband?

John smiles.

JOHN:

I’m right here, and anxious to charge right home. See you soon. I love you.

HELEN:

I love you too. And don't speed.

JOHN:

Hey, don't worry, just means I get back to you sooner.

John hangs up before she can respond.

END SPLIT SCREEN

EXT. JOHN’S HOME GARDEN - CONTINUOUS

Helen smiles and shakes her head.

HELEN:

Jerk.

She smiles, cradles the phone to her chest for a moment, then turns away to her next task.

INT. JOHN’S CAR (STILL) – CONTINUOUS

As he ends the call John looks at his watch, then the front of the bar.

JOHN:

Come on, come on.

INT. DOUGLAS' CAR (MOVING) - LATE-AFTERNOON

Douglas is in a standard, meaning boring, sedan. He makes a call.

AGENT (V.O.)

Surveillance.

DOUGLAS:

Yes, this is Douglas.

AGENT (V.O.)

Yes sir. The transcripts of the earlier marked calls will be ready shortly.

DOUGLAS:

Thanks, but that's not why I called.

AGENT (V.O.)

What then?

DOUGLAS:

Besides the calls you've already told me about. Were there any others. I mean not to or from Muntz's phone but between any on the list?

AGENT (V.O.)

Checking... yeah. Seems like Ms. Smith, I imagine that's not her real name.

DOUGLAS:

Nope.

AGENT (V.O.)

Well she seems to be on her phone a great deal.

DOUGLAS:

Yeah, we noticed that as well. Anything unusual?

AGENT (V.O.)

No not really. All seems to be straight forward business talk, nothing that puts her in a box. (pause) But...

DOUGLAS:

What?

AGENT (V.O.)

Well, I just noticed a pattern, or actually a lack of a pattern.

DOUGLAS:

What do you mean?

AGENT (V.O.)

If we hadn't been talking about how often she is on her phone I never would have noticed. Starting a little over an hour ago, there have not been any calls to or from her phone. Very unusual.

DOUGLAS:

When was the last call she made?

AGENT (V.O.)

It was the one just before the call I reported to you before, you know the one Muntz was on.

DOUGLAS:

Okay, thanks. Let me know if you see any other calls on her phone.

Douglas ends the call.

DOUGLAS:

This is not good.

INT. BAR – LATE-AFTERNOON

Willie is in a dark bar talking to a grizzled bartender with the shifty eyes of a weasel.

BARTENDER:

You what?

WILLIE:

I’m done. No more. Finished.

BARTENDER:

Hey, buddy, you’re not making any sense. You wana drink?

The Bartender starts to pour a drink, and Willie stops him with a very shaky hand.

Willie leans over the bar so he can whisper, but he is mad.

WILLIE:

You’re not my buddy!

Willie stares intensely for a moment. His hand steadies and then withdraws it.

WILLIE:

I’m telling you, I AM OUT!

The bartender reacts, rubbing his wrist. He has never been afraid of Willie before. Now he is. He looks around to see if anyone can hear them.

BARTENDER:

Ok, ok, whatever you say… But what does that mean, you’re out?

Willie settles.

WILLIE:

Means that Carlita and I aren’t in business anymore.

The Bartender is now really afraid, his eyes checking his surroundings.

BARTENDER:

But what abou...

Willie interrupts him.

WILLIE:

Forget the bonds. And don't forward any other business to me. I’m done. Got it!

The Bartender puts his hands up in surrender.

BARTENDER:

Sure, sure, anything you say. What are friends... Eh sure. OK.

Willie shakes his head, sadly, and he turn to walks out.

WILLIE:

(quietly sighs)Be glad to get home.

The Bartender leans back, takes a breath and rubs his face. He watches as Willie walks out and towards a car with a RideShare sticker on the windshield.

CLIENT (V.O.)

Hey… what’s it take to get another beer around here.

The Bartender startles and reacts angrily.

BARTENDER:

Hold your f***ing horses! Can’t you see I’m busy here?

The Bartender again looks around, then picks up his phone.

INT. JOHN’S CAR (STILL) – CONTINUOUS

John looks at his watch again.

JOHN:

Damn, you really going to make me do this? Sorry Helen.

John starts to get out of the car when he sees Willie exit and walk over. John settles back and relaxes.

JOHN:

(quietly)

Thank God...

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (MOVING) / INT. BAR - SPLIT SCREEN – MOMENTS LATER

Charles’ phone rings, he is distracted and isn’t going to answer. He changes his mind, sighs and answers.

CHARLES:

What the f*** do you want!

BARTENDER:

Hey, uh. You said if I had some good info I should call.

CHARLES:

I'm busy here... What could a low life like you know?

The Bartender realizes he’s on shaky ground but stiffens a little and forges ahead.

BARTENDER:

Well, it’s about Carlita and Willie.

Charles sits up straighter.

CHARLES:

OK… I'm listening.

BARTENDER:

Well, um, you know my kid brother...? You said you could help get him out of jail.

CHARLES:

Hey! I said I’m busy here. If you have info on the drunk, I need it now!

The Bartender, winces, and cautiously presses his luck.

BARTENDER:

This is good stuff... And you promised...

CHARLES:

OK, give me a minute.

Charles sighs and forces a smile and tries to stay calm.

CHARLES:

Listen, Buddy. I’ve been having a bad day. Haven’t I always taken care of you? What is it?

BARTENDER:

But... my brothe...

Charles loses it and interrupts him.

CHARLES:

LISTEN, you motherf***er! If you don’t tell me what you have right now, you and your brother will both, be in the shitter. You got me?

The bartender winces at the tirade.

BARTENDER:

OK, ok. This is good. I just had Willie in here.

CHARLES:

What???

BARTENDER:

Yeah, he just came in here a few minutes ago.

CHARLES:

And...

BARTENDER:

Well, Willie just said that he and Carlita weren’t doing business anymore. In fact, he said he wasn’t going to do business with anyone anymore.

CHARLES:

OK good, good.

Charles takes the phone away from his ear, places it on his chest and relaxes. The snake smile is back.

CHARLES:

Listen, is Willie still there?

Hearing Charles’ more relaxed tone the Bartender relaxes a little.

BARTENDER:

Naw, he just left. Say, this is good info, right. You can help my brother, right?

CHARLES:

Sure, sure... So where did he go?

BARTENDER:

I think he said something about going home. I saw him get into a RideShare.

Charles smiles and give a thumbs up to Roscoe.

CHARLES:

RideShare... that explains a lot. OK, good. I'll take care of your brother’s situation. I just need to talk with Willie. Just tell me where he lives.

The Bartender is confused.

BARTENDER:

Can’t you call him?

CHARLES:

This is too important. We need to talk in person. Just tell me where he lives.

BARTENDER:

Oh… I can’t do that.

Charles erupts.

CHARLES:

WHAT!

The bartender stutters.

BARTENDER:

Well... ummm... what I mean is I don’t know where Willie lives. Only Carlita knows.

The Bartender is cautious with the next question.

BARTENDER:

Couldn't you ask Carlita?

Charles’s eyes flits towards the back of the SUV.

CHARLES:

Not really, she's indisposed.(pause) So, give me Willie’s address.

BARTENDER:

Like I said, only Carlita knows. I don't have it.

Charles rolls his eyes and thinks.

CHARLES:

Ok, you did good... If Willie comes back in call me right away. Got It!

BARTENDER:

Yes sir.

The bartender hangs up, and rubs his face again.

END SPLIT SCREEN

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (MOVING) - CONTINUOUS

Charles hangs up and turns to Roscoe.

CHARLES:

What a pain in the ass. When this is all over, remind me to send someone to take care of his brother, for good.

Roscoe looks very uncomfortable.

INT. JOHN’S CAR (MOVING) - LATE-AFTERNOON

JOHN:

So, did your business go OK?

WILLIE:

Yeah, ok. Actually, I’m done with it.

John sees that Willie is uncomfortable.

JOHN:

Yeah, it can be difficult wrapping up a business.

WILLIE:

You have no idea.

EXT. JOHN’S CAR (MOVING) - LATE-AFTERNOON

We see his car approaching on a back country road. As we see it pass, the camera pans and we see John in the driver’s seat. The camera continues to pan and as the car passes by, we see a distinctive broken fence post at the side of the road.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (STILL) – LATE-AFTERNOON

CHARLES:

OK, using RideShare is why there was no official transport request. That’s why my contacts can't find out where Willie is going.

ROSCOE:

So, how do we find him?

CHARLES:

I’m thinking, I’m thinking. The problem is his name isn’t in her contacts list.

There is a long pause… but then Roscoe looks like an idea has hit him.

ROSCOE:

Hey, Willie must live pretty close to that bar. What’s the next closest town to that bar?

CHARLES:

How the f*** would I know?

Roscoe starts to look at his phone. Then his face lights up.

ROSCOE:

That’s it! Yuma!

CHARLES:

What… What the f*** are you saying? I’m starting to get pissed.

ROSCOE:

Look in her phone. Look for Yuma.

Charles isn’t sure. He looks and he sees the contact “Yuma W” and lights up.

CHARLES:

There you are you f***er.

Charles shows Roscoe the address.

CHARLES:

Let’s go. We have to catch them before the driver gets away. We need to kill them both.(pause)And, good job.

Roscoe smiles.

ROSCOE:

You got it, boss.

The car pulls away.

INT. JOHN’S CAR (MOVING) - LATE-AFTERNOON

John notices that Willie seems to be sobering up, but sad. He wants to cheer him up.

JOHN:

Hey, you never really told me what you do... or did.

Willie looks at John trying to decide what he can say.

WILLIE:

Well, I was a broker.

JOHN:

What... like a stock broker?

Willie laughs so hard he starts to cough. John doesn’t know what to think.

WILLIE:

I’m sorry, that was just so damn funny.(pause)No, not a stock broker. Hell, barely made it out of high school.

JOHN:

OK, so what do you mean by broker?

WILLIE:

I kind of help buyers and sellers get together.

JOHN:

So... is there a lot of demand for that sort of thing?

Willie smiles and looks away.

WILLIE:

There is when the buyer or seller want to do business... kind of... privately.

Willie is a little nervous, has he said too much?

John thinks for a moment, then his face lights up.

JOHN:

Yeah, I get it. I saw something on TV about that. It’s like for art and stuff like that. Some rich people don’t want publicity, right?

Willie is visibly relieved.

WILLIE:

Yeah, sure, kind of like that.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (MOVING) – LATE-AFTERNOON

Charles is smiling like a snake, pulls out the magazine from his gun and checks the action.

ROSCOE:

Um, boss?

CHARLES:

What.

ROSCOE:

Well, I'm not sure the organization will like you killing Willie.

Charles turns to stare. Roscoe gulps.

CHARLES:

Who says I'm asking?

ROSCOE:

What I mean is... Willie has been with the family so long, and has so many profitable contacts...

CHARLES:

I have contacts too.

ROSCOE:

Yeah, sure... But if we lose his contacts, and the bonds, were supposed to be a significant...

CHARLES:

He still has those, doesn't he?

Roscoe nods. Charles smiles.

CHARLES:

You're not has stupid as you look. Pull over.

INT. JOHN’S CAR (MOVING) - LATE-AFTERNOON

WILLIE:

Hey, okay if we stop for another quick break?

JOHN:

Sure, as long as it's quick.(beat)So, you were saying you're a broker. Was your dad also a broker? Is that how you got into it?

Willie looks out of the window wistfully.

WILLIE:

Naw, my parents were farmers. Pretty successful too.

JOHN:

You didn’t want to be a farmer?

WILLIE:

F*** no… farming’s too damn hard.

Willie is now talking more to himself than John.

WILLIE:

Yeah, my parents did well, too well. Got anything I wanted. And I was a brat. A lazy brat.

JOHN:

Okay...

WILLIE:

A brat, with too much money. Funny thing though, I could get whatever I wanted from my dad, but would pick pockets if I wanted money to buy a round of beers.

Willie turns to John.

WILLIE:

That’s why I don’t have any friends. I treated people like sh*t. Could buy them drinks, but not their friendship.

JOHN:

Didn’t you mention one friend?

Willie smiles.

WILLIE:

Yeah, that’s who called earlier. You know, about the game. Known her for ages. She's like my sister. And, one of the toughest and smartest women you would ever meet.

His shoulders slump.

JOHN:

How did you meet her?

WILLIE:

She’s actually how I got started as a fen... err, broker.

Willie smiles.

WILLIE:

That was a long time ago. She got into some trouble and I helped her out. And not with money. She just needed a friend to stand up for her.

JOHN:

Trouble, as in police?

Willie looks at John, knowing he has to be careful.

WILLIE:

Well, yeah, but nothing big. Someone broke into our barn and stole our truck.(sigh) She was accused.

JOHN:

Did she take it?

John starts to pull the car over on a side road.

WILLIE:

Naw, at that time, out here, it was easier to accuse a wetback, than to actually find out who really did it.

The car stops and Willie opens the door to get out.

JOHN:

So, who took it?

Willie sighs.

WILLIE:

I did.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (STILL) – LATE-AFTERNOON

CHARLES:

Okay, be quite. He can't suspect that we are close. And that Carlita's dead.

Roscoe nods as Charles pulls out his phone.

EXT. JOHN’S CAR (STILL) - LATE-AFTERNOON

Willie is on one side of the car smoking and John is on the other side. John is shaking his head.

JOHN:

You??? you took the truck?

WILLIE:

Yeah, remember, I said I was a lazy brat. My dad was getting tired of my act and was after me to get a job and stop being an a**hole.

Willie wipes his face.

WILLIE:

I was mad and decided to take his truck and trash it.(beat)At first, I was glad someone else was blamed.

JOHN:

At first?

WILLIE:

Yeah, when I heard that the girl was in jail, I realized it was time to stop being an a**hole. I confessed.

JOHN:

What happened?

Willie takes a big breath.

WILLIE:

Well, they let her go. Dad kept me out of jail, but cut me off and kicked me out.

JOHN:

Where did you go?

WILLIE:

It turned out that her uncle was grateful. He had this um… business and a spare place where he let me stay.

JOHN:

Is that where we're headed?

WILLIE:

Naw, that was temporary. Ya see, couple months later her uncle needed to sell some er, stuff. I still had some cash left over from my family that helped me make some business contacts. So, he asked me to see if I could help sell his stuff.

JOHN:

Be a broker?

WILLIE:

Er, yeah. Turned out that I was actually pretty good at this broker sh*t. Started making some good money. Got a new place. (beat) The girl and I became friends, family really, and when she got a little older, she took over the business. We’ve been working together ever since.

John nods his head. Willie's phone rings. He reacts to who is calling, looks at John and walks further away.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (STILL) – LATE-AFTERNOON

INTERCUT PHONE CONVERSATION

WILLIE:

This is a surprise.

CHARLES:

Yeah, I bet. Carlita just told me that you decided to get out of the business.

WILLIE:

Are you with her?

CHARLES:

No, after you canceled on the game we took her back home and I'm at my place working on some things.

Willie is concerned.

WILLIE:

So?

CHARLES:

I called because Carlita mentioned something about some trouble.

WILLIE:

Again, so?

CHARLES:

Well, If it's the police, I have a contact that might be able to help.

WILLIE:

Who said it was the police?

CHARLES:

I'm guessing. Probably a good guess right? (beat) In any case, It would be a shame to let your skills and contacts go to waste.

WILLIE:

As I told Carlita, I'm out. If the law was a concern I wouldn't want to put her at risk.

CHARLES:

But that's the thing. This wouldn't be with her. This is all mine.

WILLIE:

I told her you were too ambitious. That's why I don't trust you, Charlie.

Charles grits his teeth.

CHARLES:

I don't know why, Carlita is okay with what I do on the side. (beat) Besides, she won't live forever. Someone has to be ready to take over.

WILLIE:

Is that a threat? Maybe I should call her.

Charles grimaces.

CHARLES:

Do... whatever you want. However, if you are concerned for her, there are such things as wire taps. Have you thought that maybe the best way to protect her is to put this trouble behind you?

WILLIE:

Hold on.

Willie puts the call on hold, and looks around, trying to decide. Charles is holding his breath looking at Carlita's phone in Roscoe's hand.

Willie brings the phone back up.

WILLIE:

Okay. Tell me about your contact.

CHARLES:

Great, so here's the deal. My guy can make sure you concern goes away, for good.

WILLIE:

Just like that?

CHARLES:

Yeah, but of course for this help I would expect you to help me with some deals I'm working on.

WILLIE:

Outside of the organization, the family?

CHARLES:

And, completely sealed off from Carlita. (beat) The money would be significant.

WILLIE:

Well...

CHARLES:

Why don't you let me come to your place and we'll talk.

WILLIE:

How do you know where I live.

Charles pauses a bit.

CHARLES:

Well I don't. You would need to let me know... I could pick up the bonds as well.

Willie interrupts.

WILLIE:

And what the f*** do the bonds have to do with this Charlie?

Charles loses his temper.

CHARLES:

Listen you a**hole! I know you are in the sh*t with the FBI. I can get you out of that and keep those around you from getting hurt. I'm being nice here.

Willie hangs his head.

WILLIE:

Okay, listen. I need to think. If I'm in I'll head back to town. I don't trust. So, if I do this you will never know where I live.

Charles smiles.

CHARLES:

Fair enough. But, make up your mind. This is a limited time offer. Remember people don't live forever.

WILLIE:

I'll let you know.

Willie ends the call and walks over to John's car

EXT. JOHN’S CAR (STILL) - LATE-AFTERNOON

Willie gets into the car.

WILLIE:

Sorry, that was a business contact.

JOHN:

But you’re done, right?

WILLIE:

Well, I am reconsidering.

JOHN:

Really?

WILLIE:

Say, would you be able to turn around and head back to town? I would make sure you got your big tip.

JOHN:

Well, It's unusual, but can be done. It would pay my way back, but best of all I get back to my family sooner.

Willie turns and looks out of the side window and almost cries.

WILLIE:

(whispers) Yeah, family.

JOHN:

Well?

WILLIE:

Hang on.

Willie gets out his phone.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (STILL) – CONTINUOUS

Charles is looking at his phone in anticipation.

ROSCOE:

Well?

CHARLES:

I think we got him.

His phone pings.

CHYRON of Willie's text: "F*** off, Charlie!"

Charles screams and throws his phone down.

EXT. JOHN’S CAR (STILL) - CONTINUOUS

Willie has just finished texting and smiles.

JOHN:

Turn around?

WILLIE:

Nah, let's keep going. I miss home.

JOHN:

I understand that. You OK?

WILLIE:

Yeah... I’m fine. Actually, better than fine.

Since Willie is still a little drunk, John isn’t so sure.

WILLIE:

It just that sometimes, the money isn't worth... you know what the family pays.

JOHN:

I'm guessing your talking about the girl?

Willie nods, then straightens up.

WILLIE:

I think your patience with an old drunk has earned you that big tip I promised.

JOHN:

Whatever you say. Hey, if you’re not in business anymore. What will you do?

Willie thinks for a moment.

WILLIE:

Don’t know. Maybe get a few friends.

EXT. CARLITA’S CAR (MOVING) – CONTINUOUS

Roscoe is at the wheel, very determined. As we pull back the SUV is seen speeding down a country road. The camera pans away from the road and to the adjacent field. The field is filled with a golden crop swaying in the breeze.

We also see the same distinctive broken fence post that John had passed.

INT. JOHN’S CAR (STILL) – DUSK

They have just pulled up to a home that isn’t flashy but very nice. John checks his RideShare app and ends the ride.

JOHN:

Here you go.

Willie looks at the house and smiles.

WILLIE:

Wasn’t sure I was going to see this again.

John looks like he was insulted.

JOHN:

What are you talking about?

WILLIE:

No, no, that’s not... You’re a great driver. Never mind what I said.

Willie smiles at John.

WILLIE:

In fact... like I promised, I owe you a tip. Come inside, You might like some of the cool stuff I have.

JOHN:

I really need to get going.

WILLIE:

I get it. But, I don't have enough cash with me. It's in the house. (pause) Come on, stretch your legs before your long drive back.

JOHN:

Yeah, okay.

EXT. DOUGLAS' CAR (MOVING) - LATE-AFTERNOON

Douglas is grim. He looks down at his phone.

DOUGLAS:

(quietly)

Nothing.

He speeds up and we see that he passes the same broken fence post the other have passed.

AERIAL SHOT:

EXT. JOHN’S CAR – MOMENTS LATER

As they walk towards the house the view moves up. We see the town coming into view. As the view rotates toward the west the grain elevator is seen and more of the town. The higher the view becomes we see fields and the main road running into the distance. We also see that a black SUV is on that road coming fast in our direction. It is almost to the town.

EXT. WILLIE’S HOME – CONTINUOUS

As they get to the front door Willie enters a code in a security panel, it blinks green and he opens the door. Before entering he turns toward John.

WILLIE:

Say, now that I'm shutting down my business, I just thought of something that might help get you to Italy. Interested?

JOHN:

Maybe.

They enter the house.

INT. WILLIE’S LIVING ROOM – MOMENTS LATER

The enter a room that is modern and well appointed. It is not what you would expect from the outside.

John looking around speechless.

WILLIE:

Welcome. (pause) Yeah, I know. It can be a little surprising. But, it's just that I have some money and could afford to have things I enjoy.

JOHN:

It's stunning.

Willie smiles.

WILLIE:

So let me get your tip and then we can talk about my idea. Make yourself at home.

Willie walks out of the room and John starts to wander around.

EXT. GRAIN ELEVATOR – MOMENTS LATER

There is a large grain truck pulled up to the elevator.

BILL:

You about done?

CHUCK:

Naw, I need to get two more loads today. It might rain. Can you hurry up?

BILL:

Hey, it takes what it takes. You know if a person hurries too much, people get hurt.

Chuck chuckles.

CHUCK:

Yeah, you worry too much.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (MOVING) – CONTINUOUS

We see Charles looking intently out the windshield with Roscoe beside him.

CHARLES:

We're almost there... Step on it!

Roscoe speeds up.

EXT. GRAIN ELEVATOR - CONTINUOUS

As they stand together waiting for the truck to empty, Chuck and Bill notice, through the dust of the unloading grain, a black SUV two blocks over speeding along.

CHUCK:

Now there’s actually someone you should warn. I wonder what's gotten into him?

INT. WILLIE’S LIVING ROOM – MOMENTS LATER

Willie comes back into the room and hands John some cash.

JOHN:

Wait, this is $300!

WILLIE:

A promise is a promise. Right?

John recovers his wits and smiles.

JOHN:

Yeah, I guess you’re right, thanks buddy.

Willie, is about to say something, but stops.

WILLIE:

(smiling)

Welcome. Hey let me show you around. Would you like something to drink before you leave?

They start walking through the home.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (MOVING) – MOMENTS LATER

Charles is leaning forward.

CHARLES:

Almost got that f***er!

ROSCOE:

Whacha' gonna to do?

Charles turns toward him with a sneer on his lips.

CHARLES:

You’re not going soft on me, are you?

Roscoe realizes he’s in danger and gulps.

ROSCOE:

Of course not. Anything you say boss.

Charles turns away.

CHARLES:

Yeah, that’s right!

INT. WILLIE’S KITCHEN – MOMENTS LATER

Willie is at the refrigerator and John leaning against the back door facing Willie.

WILLIE:

I should could use a beer, you?

JOHN:

I'm driving, remember.

WILLIE:

Right, right.

At this point Willie hands John a sparkling water.

WILLIE:

How's this?

JOHN:

Perfect, thanks.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (MOVING) – CONTINUOUS

The car stops at a stop sign. To their right, about a half a block down they see a car parked in front of a nice house. Charles is looking at his phone.

CHARLES:

According to this, Willie's place is three houses down. That must be the driver's car there.

ROSCOE:

What next?

CHARLES:

Back up a bit so were closer to that alley. We don't want them to see us and bolt.

Roscoe puts the car into reverse and backs up. They can no longer see the front of Willie's house. Charles pulls out his gun and checks it.

CHARLES:

Okay, I'm getting out here.

Charles gets out of the car.

ROSCOE:

What do I do?

Charles leans in the passenger window.

CHARLES:

Give me five minutes to work my way to the back of his place. Then you go around and come in the front. I want to be sure they don't get away.

ROSCOE:

You got it.

Charles starts to leave, then pauses to sniff, looks disgusted, and looks at Roscoe.

CHARLES:

You stink?

Roscoe nods towards the back of the SUV.

ROSCOE:

Naw, you know...

Charles leaves. Roscoe sniffs, winces, and turns up the AC.

EXT. BEHIND WILLIE'S HOUSE - CONTINUOUS

Charles moving quickly through the alley, gun at his side. He approaches the back of the house. He is breathing heavily. He finally makes it to the back door and carefully leans against it, listening and trying to calm down.

INT. WILLIE’S KITCHEN – CONTINUOUS

John has just taken a drink.

JOHN:

Well, I need to get going.

WILLIE:

Before you go, that idea I had. Since I’m ending my business, I just realized I have some inventory I can get a good price on if I can get it quickly to this buyer in the next town.

JOHN:

Yeah, and...

WILLIE:

Well, you did such a great job getting me here and I’m still a little too drunk to drive myself.

JOHN:

No sh*t.

Willie laughs.

WILLIE:

Yeah, you got me. So, how about you drive me over and back. Get another big tip.

John pauses…

JOHN:

I don’t think so.

Willie pleads.

WILLIE:

Hey, this will get you to Italy sooner.

JOHN:

It's tempting. But...

WILLIE:

Okay... How about this. I've got this guy who owes me a favor. He can get you really cheap airline tickets to anywhere you want to go. You could get to Italy this year.

JOHN:

Again tempting.

WILLIE:

Buddy, I could really use your help.

John pauses.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (STILL) – CONTINUOUS

Roscoe is nervously checking his watch. He takes a deep breath.

ROSCOE:

Showtime.

He puts the car into gear and pulls out. He gets a few feet, is looking right towards Willie's house...

ROSCOE:

Oh sh*t!

He speeds up.

EXT. BEHIND WILLIE'S HOUSE - CONTINUOUS

Charles is at Willie's back door. He hears nothing. He is bent over using a pick to unlock the door. He straightens up and starts to breathe faster, pumping himself up. He opens the door and quickly bursts into the kitchen.

BLACK SCREEN:

EXT. FRONT OF WILLIE'S HOUSE - MOMENTS LATER

Roscoe is walking quickly up the walk looking around nervously. As he gets close to the door he hears two gun shots.

He pulls out a gun and pushes through the door.

INT. WILLIE’S LIVING ROOM – CONTINUOUS

Roscoe sees Willie on the floor surrounded by blood and broken items. Roscoe looks like he might get sick. Charles is standing over him. Charles looks up.

CHARLES:

You got the f***ing driver, right?

BEGIN FLASHBACK SEQUENCE

INT. WILLIE’S KITCHEN – MOMENTS AGO

John is leaning against the back door.

JOHN:

Again tempting.

WILLIE:

Buddy, I could really use your help.

John pauses. He is about to answer Willie when his phone pings. He looks down at a text message from Helen. CHYRON of Helen's text: "Can you get steaks for dinner?"

John smiles and replies: "Sure, heading home now." He looks up at Willie.

JOHN:

No, thanks. I have a family to get back to. Friends?

WILLIE:

Well, I guess I have two friends now. I'm on a roll. Careful going back.

JOHN:

You’re as bad as my wife.

They shake hand and Willie leads him to the front door. John leaves.

As the front door closes Willie startles at the sound of the back door being opened.

INT. WILLIE’S LIVING ROOM – CONTINUOUS

Charles comes into the room looking around.

CHARLES:

Hi Willie. Where's the driver?

WILLIE:

Charles, what the f***! How’d you find me?

Charles has a maniacal look about him.

CHARLES:

It wasn't easy. You are very careful.

Charles steps closer, knocking over a porcelain figurine in the process.

Willie winces.

WILLIE:

Damn, do you know how much that’s worth?

CHARLES:

No, I do not, and I don't care either. (pause) The driver?

WILLIE:

He's long gone.

Charles smiles.

CHARLES:

Nice try. We know you just got home. Roscoe has the front covered, so I'll take care of him in a minute.

WILLIE:

Carlita know you’re here?

CHARLES:

Carlita is past knowing anything.

WILLIE:

So, that’s how it is. I told her you couldn’t be trusted.

Charles bursts out laughing, and starts to walk around breaking other things. Willie winces at each crash, but holds his head high.

CHARLES:

You're smarter than you look.

WILLIE:

It was you wasn't it?

CHARLES:

(smiling) Yeah, a beautiful plan.

WILLIE:

Looks a little messy to me.

At this Charles grabs Willie by the neck and holds a broken piece of glass to his neck. Willie is scared, but holds up.

CHARLES:

And now I'm cleaning up the loose ends. What did you tell the driver?

Willie gulps.

WILLIE:

Nothing…

CHARLES:

What? I can’t hear you!

WILLIE:

Nothing, I told him nothing!

Charles throws Willie down, and pulls out a gun.

CHARLES:

Everyone says your so careful. But you’re a f***ing drunk and they always talk too much.

WILLIE:

Like your dad?

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (MOVING) – MOMENTS AGO

As Roscoe starts to pull ahead when he looks right. He sees John getting into his car and pulling out.

ROSCOE:

Oh sh*t!

Even though Roscoe speeds up, by the time he gets to Willie's house John is at least a half a block away. Roscoe looks at his watch, then at the receding car. He pauses and then gets out of the car and heads up the walk quickly, hearing two gun shots just as he gets to the door.

INT. WILLIE’S LIVING ROOM – CONTINUOUS

Roscoe sees Willie on the floor surrounded by blood and broken items. Roscoe looks like he might get sick. Charles is standing over him. Charles looks up.

CHARLES:

You got the f***ing driver, right?

END FLASHBACK SEQUENCE

INT. WILLIE’S LIVING ROOM – CONTINUOUS

ROSCOE:

Un no...

CHARLES:

What the f***!

Charles raises his gun at Roscoe. Roscoe winces and hurries to explain.

ROSCOE:

Boss, boss, I waited like you asked, but as started our and turned the corner, he was already in his car and down the block.

Charles softens a bit.

ROSCOE:

I know you didn't want Willie to get away.

The gun comes down.

CHARLES:

He's not too far away, is he?

ROSCOE:

No boss, if we hurry we can catch him easily.

EXT. JOHN’S CAR (STILL) – DUSK

John is at a stop sign and takes the opportunity to look at his notebook. He counts the cash in his hand. He starts to write in the notebook, then stops. He looks out his window at the setting sun, then decides something. He tosses the notebook aside and sighs contentedly. Looking at his watch, and realizes he needs to get moving.

JOHN:

(Softly)Damn, dinner!

John pulls away, fast. The camera follows him and as he pulls further ahead, it pans to see the town with a grain elevator a couple of blocks to the left.

INT. JOHN’S CAR (MOVING) / EXT. GARDEN - SPLIT SCREEN – DUSK

John is smiling and puts on some Italian music, turning up the volume. He is looking around and singing to the music. His foot presses further on the accelerator.

John uses the car's voice activation system to dial home.

JOHN:

Call home.

The music cuts out as Helen answers.

Helen is on the back porch, cleaning up and putting away her gardening tools.

HELEN:

Hey there, are you done?

JOHN:

I am, and heading home just as fast as I can.

At this comment John glances at his dash, and sees he is going too fast.

JOHN:

(softly)Sh*t.

He eases up on the accelerator. Helen is a little distracted and doesn’t quite hear what he said.

HELEN:

What?

JOHN:

Oh nothing.(smiling)Hey, I’m really looking forward to dinner. Maybe we can discuss baby names!

Helen laughs.

HELEN:

Boy, you've changed. You were so busy with work we barely discussed what to name our own kids.

JOHN:

I remember. Hey, I got a really big tip from this drunk. So how about I make the steaks for dinner really good ones?

HELEN:

That’s sounds good to me... Hey, wait a second... did you say a drunk was with you?

JOHN:

Yeah, it’s a long story. But he was harmless, and I avoided temptation. I’ll tell about it when I get home. Nothing to worry about.

Helen pauses to let this sink in, then relieved, starts to tear up again and wipes away a tear, smearing her face further.

HELEN:

OK honey.. but, I thought you'd be saving that tip for our trip.

John picks up the notebook from the seat and looks at it and smiles. He tosses it in the backseat.

JOHN:

Oh well, if we get to Italy, great... But, if it doesn’t happen that’s OK with me, if it’s OK with you.

Helen can’t quite believe what she is hearing.

HELEN:

It’s very OK with me! I have what I need. I have you, a great family, my health is better and we have enough. I don’t need a trip.

JOHN:

Say, did I hear you say something this morning about dessert?

HELEN:

You heard that? You know I wasn't talking about ice cream.

JOHN:

I do indeed.

HELEN:

Well, if your not too tired after a long day, we'll talk about that after the kids leave.

JOHN:

I can’t ask for more.

Helen tears up a bit. She can barely be heard.

HELEN:

I love you.

JOHN:

What?

Helen composes herself.

HELEN:

I said be careful.

JOHN:

There you go again.

HELEN:

Love you.

JOHN:

Me too.

Helen looks at the phone, settles back and smiles, then tears up again. She gets control again and realizes she is a mess.

As he hangs up, the music in John’s car starts up again.

END SPLIT SCREEN

EXT. CARLITA’S CAR (STILL) – DUSK

Charles and Roscoe are getting into the car.

CHARLES:

F***, I don't see him.

ROSCOE:

I'll catch him.

CHARLES:

You better!

As Charles leans forward, searching, the car pulls away.

EXT. GRAIN ELEVATOR – DUSK

The harvest truck is pulling away from the elevator. Chuck the driver smiles and waves to Bill.

INT. CARLITA’ CAR (MOVING) – MOMENTS LATER

CHARLES:

Where the f*** did he go? I wasn’t in there that long?

ROSCOE:

Um... maybe the driver doesn’t know anything.

Charles turns toward Roscoe, and speaks slowly.

CHARLES:

This is going to be the last f***ing time I ask you... Are you going soft on me?

Roscoe realizes he is in grave danger. He notices Charles fingering his gun. Roscoe straightens up.

ROSCOE:

Naw boss. No problem. Let’s go get the loser.

Charles smiles.

CHARLES:

Yeah, hurry up! Carlita has a date with the landfill.

The SUV accelerates.

INT. JOHN’S CAR (MOVING) - DUSK

He’s driving into the sunset with a big smile on his face. He blinks and lowers the sun visor.

JOHN:

Gotta be careful.

He turns up the music and is in his own lovely world.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (MOVING) – DUSK

Charles is intently staring ahead.

CHARLES:

There he is. GO!

ROSCOE:

Yeah!

Roscoe slams down on the accelerator.

INT. JOHN’S CAR (MOVING) – DUSK

John is singing along with the loud music. He is focused on the fields around him and not his mirrors.

The camera looks into the rear-view mirror and there is a black SUV gaining on him. John does not notice.

INT. HARVEST TRUCK (MOVING) – DUSK

The truck is coming up to an intersection. The driver leans over to turn on his music. As he straightens up the setting sun strikes the chrome on the truck hood and flashes into his eyes. He blinks and puts up his arm to block the light.

INT. CARLITA’S CAR (MOVING) – DUSK

Roscoe is speeding towards the intersection. The setting sun is in his eyes and he doesn’t see that there is a stop sign. He reaches up to lower the sun visor. He doesn’t see the truck coming from the left.

INT. HARVEST TRUCK (MOVING) – DUSK

The truck driver is putting down his arm when he sees the black SUV going through the intersection.

He brakes, but it is too late.

CHUCK:

SH*T!!!

INT. JOHN’S CAR (MOVING) – DUSK

The camera sees John smiling and singing. Just then a dark sedan with Douglas in it drives by. Douglas recognizes John, but because of the sun in John's eyes, he doesn't recognize Douglas, and just waves as if he doesn't have a care in the world.

INT. DOUGLAS' CAR (MOVING) - CONTINUOUS

Douglas smiles as he acknowledges John's wave. He turns back towards the front, and reacts.

EXT. JOHN’S CAR (MOVING) – CONTINUOUS

We now see behind John a black SUV blowing through an intersection and is immediately t-boned by a large harvest truck.

EXT. FARM TOWN ROAD – CONTINUOUS

The truck driver staggers out of his truck. He moves toward the demolished SUV. Two men, heads bloody and at odd angles, are laying in the SUV.

Just then Douglas pulls up and gets out of his sedan. He goes up to Chuck.

DOUGLAS:

You ok?

The driver rubs his face and nods.

CHUCK:

What the f***…

DOUGLAS:

You check the driver, I'll look at the passenger.

Chuck moves toward Roscoe and Douglas goes around the SUV to check out Charles. What he sees is Charles's head at an odd angle, left eye open staring and right eye with a shard of glass sticking out of it.

Douglas's shoulders slump and he looks up at Chuck. Chuck shakes his head and turns away. Douglas's head nods and he turns it toward the west.

He sees John’s car heading into the sunset.

CREDITS OVER SCENE

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