Scene
1 -
Media Frenzy: The Arrest of Shane Mercer
White Lies
Episode One - "Pilot"
written by
Jason Somerville
Based on the Podcast "Whisper in the Shadows", a true story.
Brisbane [email protected]
TEASER
FADE IN:
EXT. GOLD COAST - WATCHHOUSE - NIGHT
A crush of REPORTERS and PHOTOGRAPHERS outside the
watchhouse. Flashes strobe, microphones thrust forward.
A FEMALE REPORTER into camera, barely heard over the
commotion.
FEMALE REPORTER (V.O.)
Shane Mercer, the suspect in a
Melbourne double murder, was
captured earlier today. He’s now
being processed at the Southport
Watchhouse.
Through the scrum moves a male, JASON (20s), in a hooded
jumper pulled low over his face, limping slightly as he is
escorted by two PLAIN CLOTHES DETECTIVES.
Cameras snap, voices shout questions.
FEMALE REPORTER (V.O.) (CONT'D)
Police allege Mercer killed two
people in Melbourne. His arrest has
drawn national attention.
Jason ducks his head lower as the press surges. The
detectives shield him and shove him through the Watchhouse
door.
Genres:
["Crime","Mystery","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
2 -
Secret Exchange in the Watchhouse
INT. WATCHHOUSE - PROCESSING AREA - GOLD COAST - CONTINUOUS
Harsh fluorescent lights buzz overhead. Jason stands quietly
as an OFFICER catalogues his belongings.
He removes his hoodie, revealing a face that looks a little
too clean-cut for the crimes he’s supposed to have committed.
OFFICER
(offhand)
Belt, too.
Jason hesitates for a beat, just long enough to raise an
eyebrow, then he unbuckles and hands it over. The officer
tosses it into a clear evidence bag.
The officer moves a small black object, the size of matchbox
from under the bag across the counter to Jason who palms it.
He looks up quickly, a knowing glance between Jason and the
officer.
Jason shifts awkwardly, and as he walks away he subtly tucks
it into his underwear.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
3 -
Confrontation in the Cell
INT. GOLD COAST WATCHHOUSE – HOLDING CELL – MOMENTS LATER
The Officer opens the cell door with a clunk of the key turn.
Inside MERCER, mid-30s, tattooed, sits on his bed relaxed.
Too relaxed for someone facing life. A faint grin plays on
his lips, like he’s in on a joke Jason hasn’t heard yet.
Jason steps inside, limping slightly. He meets Mercer's eyes
briefly, then looks away, pretending to be calm. Silence.
The door CLANGS shut behind him.
JASON
(clearing his throat, gaze
darting to the cell door)
Hey, how’s it going?
Mercer studies him, slow and deliberate. A smirk tugs at his
mouth.
JASON (CONT'D)
Did you see that media circus?
Mercer doesn’t answer immediately. He notices the limp.
MERCER
That limp’s gonna wreck your gait
if you don’t sort it.
JASON
Been trying to walk it out.
MERCER
(grins)
Nah mate, trust me. I have a black
belt. I ran my own gym and trained
fighters. Rehab was half the gig.
Jason raises his eyebrows, a flicker of respect—or at least
intrigue— crossing his face.
JASON
(trying to sound
impressed)
Right... Cheers. So, uh, yeah...
the media out there. Was that...
Mercer's smirk widens slightly. He leans in, intimidating.
MERCER
What’s your name?
JASON
Jason.
MERCER
Jason what?
JASON
Just Jason.
Mercer grins wider, enjoying the game.
MERCER
Alright, Just Jason. What’d they
get you for?
JASON
Had a warrant from when I ran from
the cops. Got pulled over, ounce of
weed under the seat.
MERCER
(chuckles)
Yeah, they’re pricks like that.
JASON
What about you? You don’t have to
tell me if you don’t want.
Mercer tilts his head, casual, almost proud.
MERCER
You saw the cameras outside? That
was me. Stole a Porsche down in
Melbourne, got pinched up here.
JASON
Why a Porsche?
MERCER
Couldn't find the keys for the
Benz.
A beat.
MERCER (CONT'D)
(conversational, almost
amused)
One minute they’re breathing. Next
— they’re not. Paper’ll love it.
Jason freezes. Mercer leans forward on his bunk, elbows on
knees, eyes locked. A predator’s stillness — like he might
pounce across the metre of space if he felt like it.
JASON
So… how’d you even do it? Media
reckoned hammer, some said—
Mercer springs forward toward Jason in a blur. A forearm
clamps Jason’s throat, lifts him against the wall. No sound
but Jason’s strangled wheeze, feet scuffing the concrete.
Mercer leans in close, voice low, calm.
MERCER
You a cop?
Jason claws at his arm, shakes his head furiously.
Mercer studies him with dead eyes. Holds it… then lets go.
Jason staggers back, rubbing his throat. He drags in a ragged
breath before he can speak.
Mercer steps back, utterly calm again.
MERCER (CONT'D)
(almost nonchalantly)
People call it murder. You
should’ve seen the look on their
faces. That moment — when they
realise...
Mercer sits back, relaxed, stretching out like he owns the
room — his gaze never leaves Jason, pinning him there.
MERCER (CONT'D)
Sometimes you just take what you
want. Deal with the rest later.
Mercer grins — calm, detached, enjoying Jason’s unease.
Jason tries to mask his shock. Mercer notices, amused.
JASON
Right… yeah. Guess the papers will
eat that up.
MERCER
Deadset. I’m a celebrity now.
They’ll bring pizza later.
Jason forces a tight laugh, desperate to keep the mask in
place.
JASON
So what happens now? Court, trial,
all that?
MERCER
They'll charge me. It'll go to
court. That's the game.
Mercer’s eyes glitter, enjoying the unease.
INT. WATCHHOUSE - CELL - GOLD COAST - LATER
An OFFICER slides pizza into the cell. Mercer tears into it.
JASON
(to guard)
Hey buddy, when do I get my call?
The door buzzes. Jason limps out and doesn't look back.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
4 -
Confession and Cockiness
INT. GOLD COAST WATCHHOUSE - HALLWAY - MOMENTS LATER
Jason limps down the hallway until he is out of sight of the
holding cell, which becomes a normal, almost cocky stride, as
he gets toward the processing area.
DETECTIVE CASS BARNES and another MALE DETECTIVE from
Victoria Police are standing at the end of the hallway.
Jason reaches into his pants and pulls out a small tape
recorder.
JASON
(relieved, holding up a
tiny recorder)
So... how’d I do? Pretty sure I got
his confession.
A wry smile comes to Jason's lips.
The detectives exchange a quick glance.
SMASH CUT TO BLACK:
THEME MUSIC AND TITLE CARD: WHITE LIES
THEME MUSIC - “BETTER GET A LAWYER” BY THE CRUEL SEA (3rd
Chorus through to riff)
ACT ONE
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
5 -
A Job Well Done
EXT. WATCHHOUSE CARPARK - LATER THAT EVENING
Jason and Cass Barnes, walk to their cars. Jason's stride
normal now, no sign of the fake limp.
CASS
(sidelong)
I see you’ve dropped the limp.
Jason smirks faintly but doesn’t answer.
They stop at Jason's car. They shake hands.
Cass turns to walk, Jason unlocks his car door. Cass stops
and turns back. She has a satisfied look on her face.
CASS (CONT'D)
Hey. Good job Jason, we’ll be in
touch.
Jason nods as Cass walks off. He gets into his car and sits
in silence for a few seconds. Then a small smile comes across
his face and he nods. He starts his car and drives off.
FADE TO BLACK
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
6 -
Night Shift Reflections
INT. POLICE CAR – NIGHT - DRIVING
SUB - A FEW DAYS LATER (JUNE 1995)
Jason and DJ are in a police car as it drives out of the
station. They are both in uniform. Jason is driving and DJ is
in the passenger seat.
DJ picks up the radio mic.
DJ
274, VKR.
VKR (RADIO)
274, go ahead.
DJ
Yeah VKR, 274 on air, 10pm to 6am
shift. Somerville and Hopkins in
the car.
VKR (RADIO)
Thanks, DJ, nothing holding — but
that’ll change. Have a good shift.
Tell Snappy the watchhouse still
has his belt from the other night.
DJ
Why do they call you Snappy?
JASON
Apparently I don’t play well with
others.
Jason grins slightly, eyes on the road.
DJ
So what do they mean the other
night?
JASON
Talking about Tuesday night. That
cell job.
DJ
You got a thrill outta that, didn't
you?
Jason shrugs, eyes forward.
JASON
Yeah I really did. Sitting in there
with a bloke who’d killed two
people. He just looked me dead in
the eye and said it. I was scared
shitless... and I wanted more of
it.
(looking over at DJ)
It was a rush.
DJ
And now you’re stuck doing laps
with me. What a comedown.
JASON
Yeah. From murderers to paperwork.
A beat of quiet. Streetlights flicker past.
DJ
You were in that first intake after
Fitzgerald, yeah?
JASON
Yep, biggest intake they ever ran,
four hundred of us. You came in
twelve months later, right?
DJ
Yep. So technically I’m the
improved model.
JASON
(grins)
Mate, you’re still in the box with
the instruction manual.
They both laugh.
Another beat of silence as they drive.
JASON (CONT'D)
Been thinking about asking Taylor
to marry me. Feels like it’s what
she expects… what everyone expects.
Not sure I’m ready, but maybe it’s
time.
DJ
Is that another famous Snappy "gut
feeling" or do you really want to?
The question hangs in the air as they drive in silence. Jason
has a benign look on his face.
Genres:
["Crime","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
7 -
Midnight Pursuit
EXT. WEMBLEY ROAD SERVICE ROAD – NIGHT (1AM)
The road is empty. A lone MALE (early 20s, wearing a hoodie,
jeans and sneakers) skulks down the street under a flickering
streetlight.
INT. POLICE CAR – MOVING – CONTINUOUS
DJ
You know this is the part of the
night shift where nothing happens,
right? It’s just another quiet
shift.
JASON
It’s never nothing.
(looking at DJ
incredulously)
And did you just say the Q word,
you muppet?
Jason squints ahead through the windscreen.
JASON (CONT'D)
And speaking of muppets — look at
this bloke. He looks like he’s up
to no good.
DJ
At 1am, everyone in Woodridge looks
like they're up to no good.
JASON
Nah. Look at him, the way he’s
walking. He’s just done something.
DJ
Or he’s just cold and walking home
from his girlfriend’s house.
JASON
Or he’s about to do something.
DJ
Snappy…
JASON
I think we should have a chat.
DJ
(tired)
I really want to do paperwork.
Jason doesn’t wait. Flicks the wheel, spins the car in a
quick U-turn.
DJ (CONT'D)
Oh for f—
Jason guns it. The car accelerates fast down the service
lane, the engine whines.
The Male glances back. Sees the police car bearing down. He
bolts without hesitation.
JASON
He’s running!
Tyres squeal. Both doors fling open as the car screeches to a
stop.
Jason and DJ leap out.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
8 -
Chase and Consequences
EXT. SERVICE ROAD / BUSH STRIP / SHOPS – CONTINUOUS
The Male darts across the verge, cuts through scrub behind
the plaza. Jason’s faster, relentless, a metre behind.
DJ trails — fit but nowhere near as aggressive.
JASON
(into a handheld radio,
breathless)
274 VKR, foot pursuit — one male on
foot, dark hoodie, heading across
Logan Road, down toward the Triple
C.
The Male glances back — he’s shocked when he sees how close
Jason is.
EXT. BACK OF TRIPLE C SHOPS – CONTINUOUS
The Male sprints hard. Jason lunges — tackles him brutally.
They hit the ground with a heavy crunch.
Jason lands hard on top. Grabs the hoodie, yanks the Male
into the dirt. A fist cocked, he’s panting, wired. The Male
struggles beneath him.
Jason’s eyes dart — there, he sees a glint in the grass just
beside the Male's hand, — a diamond ring.
Jason grabs it fast. Palms it. Slides it into his pocket in
one sharp movement.
JASON
(feral)
Stop fucking struggling! You made
me run, mate — that’s on you!
The Male groans under Jason’s knee. He’s winded and face-
down. Jason snaps the cuffs on — hard.
Jason remains crouched, his chest heaves, the ragged sound of
his own breath loud in his ears.
Jason's face, a tight, shadowed mask, still holds the feral
intensity of the chase, his muscles tense as if ready to
spring again, his subconscious refuses to acknowledge the
fight is done.
DJ (O.S.)
(half out of breath)
Show off.
Jason looks up as DJ jogs in, a few paces behind.
JASON
Someone’s gotta make you look good
— and you’re still in a clean
shirt.
They stand the Male up and start to walk him back to the car.
Jason fidgets with his pocket. DJ notices.
DJ
One shortcut, mate, and you’ll be
just like half the blokes we lock
up.
JASON
(Mock confusion)
Huh?
CUT TO BLACK
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
9 -
A New Opportunity
INT. OIC’S OFFICE – LATER THAT MORNING
The OIC (middle-aged, wearing a uniform with a senior
sergeants crest on the epaulettes, greying hair and clean-
shaven) sits behind his desk.
Jason and DJ step in.
OIC
Will you close the door, Snappy.
Jason closes the door.
Jason and DJ stand in front of the desk, both still bruised
and dirty from the chase.
DJ
You wanted to see us boss?
OIC
Good work last night. He was a
habitual B&E merchant and he is off
the streets. So long as the
paperwork is good?
Jason and DJ exchange a look.
JASON
(smirking)
You know us boss.
OIC
(beat, eyes narrowing at
Jason)
Don’t get carried away. There’s a
line between control and chaos. You
"new breed" need to learn that.
Jason nods, swallowing whatever comeback he might’ve had.
DJ
Yes, boss.
A beat. Jason nods stiffly. DJ sneaks a glance at him,
suddenly less amused.
A knock at the door.
OIC
Come in.
(dismissing DJ)
DJ, You can go home.
Cass and NICK COX step in, clipped and serious
OIC (CONT'D)
Snappy these people are here to see
you.
DJ glances at Jason, curious, then leaves closing the door
behind him.
OIC (CONT'D)
This is Cass Barnes, D/Sgt from the
Covert Unit, and D/Sgt Nick Cox
from the Drug Squad.
JASON
Cass and I met the other night.
You’re both a long way from home.
Cass nods. Nick leans casually against the desk.
CASS
How do you reckon it went the other
night?
JASON
I thought I did a good job.
CASS
You did. That’s why we’re here.
A proud smile forms on Jason's face. Cass gestures to Nick.
NICK
G’day, mate.
As they shake hands, Nick absently rubs at his chest, like
clearing indigestion.
NICK (CONT'D)
Bloody coffee. Heartburn already.
(brushes it off, easy
smile)
Anyway…
Jason nods cautiously.
CASS
We’re offering you a spot in the
Covert Squad. You’d start in about
six weeks' time.
(trace of a smile)
Interested?
JASON
Hell yeah, I applied the second I
finished the course. Where else am
I gonna use the acting skills I got
at Uni?
CASS
That’s settled then.
(gestures to Nick)
Nick will be your controller for
your first job — you’ll report to
him day-to-day. I oversee the
Covert Squad and keep an eye on the
UCs.
JASON
Umm... I should run it pass my
girlfriend first, if that’s ok?
CASS
(raising an eyebrow)
Isn’t she your fiancée?
JASON
(a weary exhalation, a
tight, almost pained
smile)
Not you too.
CASS
You’ve got 48 hours. I’ll be
expecting your call.
Jason turns and walks out, closing the door behind him.
Genres:
["Crime","Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
10 -
Crossing Lines
INT. POLICE STATION – DAY
Jason emerges from the office, trying to look unaffected.
He heads toward the lockers. DJ throws him a look from the
hallway, still half-annoyed, half-curious.
From behind him a SERGEANT calls out.
SERGEANT (O.S.)
Hey, Snappy — need you to sign the
property register.
Jason turns.
SERGEANT (CONT'D)
It’s for the property from the
bloke you arrested last night.
Jason freezes for half a second — just enough. Then he nods,
walks toward the desk, unreadable.
JASON
(pulling the diamond ring
out of his pocket)
I found this in the back of the car
and was just coming down to see you
to log it.
Jason keeps his face flat — but DJ catches the flicker
The Sergeant takes it without a glance, scribbles the entry.
VO (JASON)
Some lines you only see after
you’ve crossed ‘em.
ACT TWO
Genres:
["Crime","Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
11 -
A Romantic Distraction
INT. TAYLOR'S HOUSE – NIGHT
Taylor stands in the kitchen doorway, still in her nurses’
uniform. Jason is at the stove, sauté pan in one hand, tea
towel flung over his shoulder.
The table is set for two: candles, folded napkins, two
glasses of wine already poured.
TAYLOR
So, what’s for dinner?
JASON
Your favourite.
TAYLOR
Mmm. Nice. Although... I think I’d
rather have dessert first.
She walks over behind him and wraps her arms around his
waist, nuzzling into his neck.
JASON
Hey—it’s almost ready.
TAYLOR
I’m ready now.
She kisses his neck, slowly. Jason tries to turn off the
burner.
JASON
Umm, let me just—
TAYLOR
(Playfully)
Don’t think I’ll just wait around
forever
Taylor turns him around and kisses him, deep and playful. He
gives in quickly, wrapping his arms around her.
They stumble toward the bedroom, giggling between kisses,
pulling at each other’s clothes. Shirts fall. Then pants. By
the time they hit the bed, they’re in underwear, breathless,
entangled.
INT. BEDROOM – MOMENTS LATER
Jason and Taylor lie tangled in the sheets, breathless.
Taylor draws circles on his chest with her finger.
TAYLOR
So... about that dinner?
JASON
(laughing)
Might be beyond saving at this
point.
He kisses her neck, then rolls out of bed, pulling on his
jeans.
Genres:
["Romance","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
12 -
Tensions Unveiled
INT. DINING ROOM – LATER
Jason spoons cold pasta onto plates. Taylor, wearing only a
bra and G-string, leans over the table with a cheeky grin.
JASON
This was going to be much better
when it was hot. Now it’s stone-
cold.
TAYLOR
It’ll be fine. Besides, you’re not
that good a cook anyway.
She laughs.
JASON
Hey, that’s not very nice or fair.
TAYLOR
So why am I getting a special
dinner... and some great sex?
JASON
Do I need a reason to cook you
dinner?
TAYLOR
I’ve known you for seven years. So,
what’s up?
Jason sighs, sits down opposite her.
JASON
Yeah, okay. You got me. I don’t
want you to get upset.
TAYLOR
Okay, what have you done?
JASON
No, nothing like that. Remember the
covert course... and that cell job
the other night?
TAYLOR
(coldly)
Don’t tell me, they actually
offered you a spot?
JASON
Um... yeah. And I need to give them
an answer tomorrow.
TAYLOR
I grew up with lies, Jason. I won’t
live through that again.
(beat)
If you make me choose between who
you are and who you pretend to be —
I won’t choose the pretence.
JASON
But I’m not your dad.
TAYLOR
Then don’t start acting like him
Jason pushes back from the table, jaw tight.
JASON
This is what I do.
TAYLOR
And what about my feelings? I don’t
want to lose us.
The home phone rings. Jason gets up.
JASON
Hey. Not a good time. Where? Yep,
I’ll ask. Maybe.
He hangs up.
TAYLOR
(quiet, bitter)
Ten minutes ago we were in bed. Now
I don’t even recognise you. Do you
even know who you are?
She rises. Jason steps in, holds her by the waist, kisses her
forehead.
JASON
So, are we good?
TAYLOR
I didn’t say that.
She looks down, twisting her necklace.
TAYLOR (CONT'D)
I don’t want you doing this.
She turns away. Jason takes a cautious step forward, touches
her shoulder.
TAYLOR (CONT'D)
I’m not going out. You can go if
you want. You always do what you
want anyway.
A long beat.
She turns and walks into the bedroom and slams the door.
Jason grabs his shirt and jacket, jaw tight.
JASON
(mutters to himself)
Fuck this.
Jason stops outside her closed door, hand resting there, jaw
clenched. He doesn’t knock. He walks out.
EXT. SUBURBAN STREET – NIGHT
Jason steps out, pulls the door shut harder than he needs to.
He walks down the quiet street, still buzzing with anger.
A taxi slows beside him. Jason raises a hand. The cab pulls
in.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
13 -
A Night of Deception
INT. TAXI – NIGHT
Jason slides into the front seat. The DRIVER — scruffy,
longish curly hair, white shirt and black trousers — glances
at him.
TAXI DRIVER
Rough night, hey?
JASON
You don’t know the half of it.
TAXI DRIVER
Where to, boss?
JASON
The City. City Rowers.
TAXI DRIVER
You’re the boss.
They ride in silence for a beat. Petrol stations, strip
shops, neon sliding past the window.
TAXI DRIVER (CONT'D)
If you’re interested, I can hook
you up. Make the night more fun.
Forget the shit.
JASON
(feigning ignorance)
What do you mean?
TAXI DRIVER
Whatever you want — dope, speed,
E’s. You name it.
Jason plays it cool, hiding the flicker in his eyes.
JASON
Really? How much?
TAXI DRIVER
Regular — fifty for an E, couple
hundred for speed, hundred for
weed.
Jason nods, casual.
JASON
Not tonight. But maybe next week —
I’ve got a party. Can I get your
number?
TAXI DRIVER
Sure. I’ll give you a card when we
stop.
EXT. CITY STREET – OUTSIDE CITY ROWERS NIGHTCLUB - NIGHT
The cab pulls over. Jason climbs out. The driver hands him a
card with a number scribbled on it.
JASON
(leaning in)
Cheers, mate. I’ll give you a call.
The taxi drives off. Jason glances at the card, smirks.
JASON (CONT'D)
(to himself)
That was too easy.
He pockets it, walks off toward the club.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
14 -
Under Pressure
INT. KITCHEN – MORNING
Jason makes a coffee and then walks over to the phone, dials.
JASON
Cass? I’m in.
INT. DRUG SQUAD OFFICE – DAY
SUB - A WEEK LATER
A bare room with scuffed walls and worn furniture. Cass and
Nick stand near a battered whiteboard covered in surveillance
photos and scribbled notes. Jason sits across from them,
trying not to show nerves.
NICK
Okay, here’s the go: Thanks to your
intel from the other night, taxis
are the new way they're shifting
gear. Always moving, never static,
which makes pinning them down
tricky.
CASS
An important link to the bigger
players. They're small-time, but
they've got big connections.
Nick gestures to a surveillance photo pinned to the board—a
grainy shot of VLAD, mid-thirties, scruffy.
NICK
Call Vlad and set up a buy for some
gear tomorrow night.
CASS
Your first real buy/bust.
JASON
What if he doesn’t bite?
Nick shares a glance with Cass, confident.
NICK
He'll bite. We’ve done our
homework. He wants regulars.
JASON
Right. And if it goes sideways?
NICK
It won't. But if it does, we step
in. Surveillance will be close.
Nick signals. Two SURVEILLANCE OFFICERS step forward, handing
Jason a tiny tape recorder.
Jason takes the recorder.
JASON
Right. Any chance of a gun? Or
maybe a car?
Nick gives a wry smile.
NICK
Not yet, mate. You have to earn
your stripes first.
Jason smirks, confidence building.
JASON
Don’t worry. I will.
Nick glances at Cass, then back at Jason with a grin.
CASS
Oh — Mercer’s already been
extradited back to Melbourne. Judge
stuck him on remand, no bail. No
idea if they’ll call you down for
court. Could be months, could be
never.
Jason frowns, rubs his temple.
JASON
Great. First job and I’m already on
someone else’s stage.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
15 -
Undercover Call
INT. DRUG SQUAD OFFICE – NEXT DAY
A bare desk. Jason sits alone, nervously toying with a
landline handset. He has a microphone ear piece in his ear.
The mini tape recorder whirrs beside him.
He dials.
VLAD (V.O.)
Yeah?
JASON
Hey, it’s... Mick. We met in your
cab the other night. You gave me
your number?
A pause.
VLAD (V.O.)
Right. Yeah. What’s up?
JASON
I got something happening this
weekend. Wondered if you could sort
me out like you said?
VLAD (V.O.)
How many you after?
JASON
A couple, maybe 10. E’s. Maybe more
if they’re good.
VLAD (V.O.)
I'll see, what's your number?
JASON
Umm...
(looking around for the
number)
3207 3645
VLAD
Give me a few hours. I’ll call you
back.
Jason hangs up. He exhales sharply. Sweat under his collar.
He looks up at Nick and Cass with a grin.
JASON
(impressed with himself,
almost cocky)
That was easy.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
16 -
The Cautious Approach
EXT. TRAIN STATION – NIGHT
Nick’s unmarked car idles. Jason steps out, pulling his
hoodie down.
NICK
Simple job. Get in, get the gear,
get out. No cowboy bullshit.
JASON
Got it.
Jason nods. Closes the door.
EXT. SUBURBAN STREET / PARK – NIGHT
Jason walks toward the meeting spot. He pulls the recorder’s
switch from inside his jeans.
WHIRR. The recorder kicks in. He flinches.
He walks awkwardly toward the taxi rank. What feels like a
waddle is, in fact, a normal walk.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
17 -
Undercover Tension
EXT. TAXI RANK – NIGHT
Vlad’s cab is parked under a flickering streetlamp.
INT. TAXI – CONTINUOUS
Jason opens the passenger side door and gets into the front
passenger seat.
VLAD
Sorry I’m late. Fare went longer
than I thought.
JASON
No dramas.
VLAD
So... you want the good stuff?
JASON
That’s the idea. You got it?
VLAD
Yeah. But don’t muck me around.
Jason tries to negotiate.
JASON
What’s the price?
VLAD
Forty a pop.
Jason jolts, for half a second sure he hears the click of a
tape deck flipping sides. He presses his thigh, paranoid.
Nothing.
Vlad eyes him.
VLAD (CONT'D)
(suspicious)
You right, mate?
Jason forces a grin, covering.
JASON
Yeah. Sorry. Just thinking if I
need more.
Beat.
VLAD
If you become a regular, I’ll look
after you.
Jason nods quickly.
VLAD (CONT'D)
But not here. Too many eyes. I’ll
drive us somewhere.
He starts the car.
Jason’s pulse spikes. If Vlad drives off, the whole bust
collapses.
JASON
C’mon mate, you’re spooking
yourself. We’re sweet here — in and
out. Nobody’s watching.
A long beat. Vlad studies him, then exhales and pulls the
gear from under the seat.
VLAD
Here you go, enjoy those.
Jason holds up bag to the dome light.
JASON
(playing dumb)
That it?
VLAD
Put it down. You wanna advertise it
to the fuckin’ neighbourhood?
JASON
Just checkin’ they're not mints,
mate.
Jason makes a show of squinting at it in the light.
VLAD
(agitated)
Down. Put it down now.
JASON
Relax.
Jason tucks it into his pocket — but it’s already too late.
SCREECH — TWO UNMARKED CARS flood in from either end of the
park, headlights blinding.
VLAD
(shouting)
Shit! Shit! Don’t say nothin’!
Don’t tell them anything!
Doors slam. DETECTIVES move fast. Guns drawn. Orders barked.
Jason raises his hands.
The two Detectives pull Vlad from the car, slam him onto the
bonnet. He thrashes.
Jason is yanked out the other side. Compliant. Playing the
role.
VLAD (O.S.) (CONT'D)
(desperate)
He’s just a customer! I don’t know
him!
(MORE)
VLAD (O.S.) (CONT'D)
(as cops drag him off)
Mate, it wasn’t me, it was him!
I’ll tell you what I know if you
let me go!
Jason gets cuffed. Ushered away.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
18 -
Betrayal and Banter
EXT. STREET NEARBY – MOMENTS LATER
Jason sits in the back of a sedan. Window cracked. Breath
fogs the glass.
From across the park, he watches Vlad — now caged in the
other vehicle — as he kicks against the door.
Two DETECTIVES search the taxi. They photograph, bag,
catalogue what they find.
Jason watches as they drive off with Vlad, who has his head
bowed, resigned to his fate.
A Detective walks over and opens Jason’s door.
DETECTIVE #1
We’re good. He's gone.
Jason steps out, stretches his arms.
The Detective unlocks the cuffs. Jason immediately plunges
his hand into his pants.
JASON
(sighing relief)
Thank fuck.
He pulls out the mini tape recorder.
He flaps the front of his jeans, airing his crotch. He gets
back into the back seat of the car.
DETECTIVE #1
Are you alright there?
JASON
Mate, I think I burnt my balls.
It's like carrying a toaster in my
jocks.
Laughter from the front seat as they drive off.
Jason, still wincing, allows himself a crooked grin.
DETECTIVE #2
(over shoulder)
He’s already singing. Told the boys
he wants to roll on you.
Jason smirks faintly, hides it with a cough.
JASON
That right?
(beat, steadying himself)
Good.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
19 -
The Informant's Risk
INT. HQ – DRUG SQUAD OFFICE – NIGHT
Cass leans against a filing cabinet, arms crossed. Nick
stands behind a desk littered with paperwork and evidence
bags.
Jason enters, holding the recorder in one hand, and a
clipseal bag with tablets in it, in the other.
CASS
Vlad's rolled. Claims he can give
us plenty — including you.
JASON
That was quick.
Nick smirks, then winces slightly, pressing his chest with
the heel of his hand. He covers it by shifting in his chair.
NICK
Yeah — we told him we had enough to
bury him. Possession, supply… take
your pick.
Cass notices Nick’s movement, frowns briefly. Jason doesn’t
see it.
CASS
Or he could make himself useful.
Nick waves her off, reaching for the paperwork again.
NICK
Relax. I’m fine.
(beat)
So — he’s agreed to inform.
Jason, oblivious, puffs up a little, proud.
NICK (CONT'D)
He gave us a list. Names, spots,
what they run. It’s solid.
CASS
Congratulations, you’ve just made
your first informant.
(stepping forward)
So well done. Seriously.
Jason’s chest puffs slightly.
CASS (CONT'D)
But now it really starts.
Beat.
CASS (CONT'D)
This is no longer just a favour to
the Homicide Squad. It’s a full
Covert operation. Approved. Funded.
Monitored. And it’s got a name.
JASON
(sceptical)
What — Operation Vlad?
NICK
(chuckling)
No. You’ll get the name tomorrow.
CASS
He’s your informant now. You’ll be
working him. But the targets on
that list? They’re bigger. Proper
operators. They're who we want.
NICK
This is the part where you stop
being a tourist. If this plays out,
we can climb the ladder.
Jason exhales. He knows what that means.
NICK (CONT'D)
Drive him home, start building
rapport. He knows you as Mick, keep
running with that.
JASON
Yeah sure, I can do that. What can
go wrong?
CASS
I’ve been doing this a long time.
I’ve got informants everywhere.
(beat, steady on Jason)
Word always gets back. It’s never
as quiet as you think.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
20 -
Impulsive Plans
INT. JASON'S CAR - LATER
Jason and Vlad are sitting outside Vlad's apartment block in
Fortitude Valley.
JASON
Alright mate, I will give you a
call in a few days and we can get
started.
VLAD
Sure Mick, no worries. Unless...
JASON
Unless?
VLAD
We could start tonight. Everyone
will be at the club-I was heading
there anyway. Want to come?
JASON
I could be convinced to do that.
What's the worst that could happen?
ACT THREE
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
21 -
Tension at The Red Garter
INT. THE RED GARTER – NIGHT
Dim red lights. Loud music. Laughter. The smell of stale beer
and perfume.
Vlad leads Jason to a booth opposite the stage area.
Sitting in the booth are GAVIN (30s, standard 90's dress,
shoulder-length brown hair, medium build, tall, has a rough
look about him) and his crew (two other males early 20s,
nondescript) are already there.
Loud, drinking, throwing notes at the girls dancing at the
stage opposite.
VLAD
Fellas, this is Mick.
GAVIN
Another punter?
VLAD
He's sweet. He's been one of my
regular taxi customers for a while
now.
Jason nods. Gavin sizes him up.
LATER...
Jason flirts lazily with a dancer (18/19, tall, petite, long
blonde hair, wearing a cherry-red bikini).
She laughs at something he says, playfully flicking his
shoulder before heading backstage.
JASON
Bye Crystal.
Jason watches her go, the faintest smirk tugging at his
mouth.
Jason leans back in to Gavin, a big smile on his face.
JASON (CONT'D)
You blokes don’t exactly look like
stockbrokers.
Gavin squints, grins without warmth.
GAVIN
Yeah? And you don’t look like you
belong.
(beat, sharper)
What are you, a cop?
JASON
Do I look like a cop?
GAVIN
Nah you don’t. You look more like a
poof. But you haven’t cracked on to
me yet.
JASON
(With a smile)
The night’s still young.
Jason holds the smile, though his eyes flick to Gavin’s hand
on the table.
They laugh.
Gavin relaxes a little. Jason
GAVIN
I run a little "go-juice" business.
You know... speed.
JASON
You do alright?
GAVIN
Better than alright. You looking to
buy?
JASON
Always looking for a better deal.
Gavin studies him.
GAVIN
I heard you got some E’s from Vlad.
Why don’t you share them around?
JASON
Nah I can’t mate. Just bought them
for some friends on the weekend.
GAVIN
Aren’t we your friends?
Gavin frowns.
His hand drops behind his back.
In the back of his jeans he has a small calibre handgun. He
starts to wrap his hand around it.
RITA (mid 40s, Transgender female, thin, wearing a leopard
skin dress) is standing at the bar watching the interaction
between Gavin and Jason.
She can see Gavin reach for his gun.
Rita glides from the bar to the booth and suddenly appears
beside Jason.
RITA
Hello Darling, I’m Rita. I manage
this fine establishment. Can I
borrow you a sec?
Rita pulls Jason away from the booth.
Gavin watches them go, jaw tight. He leans back, mutters to
one of his crew.
GAVIN
Who the fuck’s her new boyfriend?
The mate shrugs. Gavin drains his glass, eyes still on the
door.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
22 -
Territory and Temptation
INT. CLUB FOYER – MOMENTS LATER
RITA
(sternly)
You don’t deal in my club without
asking first. Understand?
Jason freezes.
JASON
I wasn’t—
RITA
Last bloke who tried that ended up
in hospital.
(she changes to being
sweet and flirty)
I like you better upright, darling.
She slips him a scrap of paper with her number.
RITA (CONT'D)
Next time, you call me.
(beat; sharper again)
And listen — Alfonse doesn’t like
cowboys sniffing round his turf. If
he hears about you, I can’t save
you twice.
Jason pockets it, wary. Rita smiles — equal parts charm and
warning — then disappears back inside.
Jason looks a little bit bewildered but turns slowly walks
down the street, He looks at the piece of paper he was given.
He is tired. Wired. Still hot.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
23 -
Suspicion in the Morning
INT. RITA’S UNIT – EARLY MORNING
The small flat is awash in dim red light from a lava lamp,
posters of Madonna and ABBA adorning the walls and fake
orchids in every corner.
The lounge room is meticulously arranged, with two large
armchairs at one end, and at the other end, two smaller
settee-type chairs. Beyond that, a dining table is visible.
Rita reclines in her armchair in a faded robe, cordless phone
pressed to her ear.
RITA
Cass — I had a guy in the club last
night. Thought he was dealing at
first, but maybe he was just
buying. Wore a flannelette shirt of
all things, but you could tell he
was clean under the dirt. He just
looked wrong.
(pause)
Is he one of yours?
Genres:
["Crime","Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
24 -
Tension in the Car
INT. CASS’S CAR – INTERCUT – PARKED OUTSIDE THE STATION
CASS
What’d he look like?
RITA
Mid-twenties, goatee, nose ring,
kinda cute. Didn’t flinch when I
fronted him. He said his name was
Mick.
(pause)
Sound familiar?
Cass exhales sharply. Silent fury.
CASS
He shouldn’t have been there.
RITA
I thought as much. You’ve got some
loose threads, Cass.
CASS
You’re one to talk.
(pause)
Listen… you’re good at this. You
notice things. You should think
about introducing a UC for us
sometime.
RITA
(laughs, raspy)
Thought I just did.
They both fall silent. It hangs in the air.
CASS
We’ll talk.
Rita lights another cigarette. Stares out the window.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Crime","Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
25 -
Morning Call
EXT. SUBURBAN STREET – EARLY MORNING
Jason walks alone, the faint morning light washing over him.
He's heading toward a row of shops. His pager buzzes faintly
in his pocket.
He stops at a graffitied PAYPHONE outside a closed
convenience store. Drops a coin, dials.
CASS (PHONE)
What the hell were you thinking?
Jason paces slightly outside the row of shuttered shops, the
dawn light creeping in. He speaks quietly into the payphone,
CASS (PHONE) (CONT'D)
That wasn’t the deal. You were
meant to drop Vlad off and go home.
JASON
He suggested we should start last
night. I picked up another lead.
CASS (PHONE)
What part of ‘don’t freelance’
sounds like an optional extra to
you?
JASON
Ok, sorry. It won't happen again.
CASS (PHONE)
No it won't. Now get yourself to
the safe house.
Click. She hangs up.
Genres:
["Crime","Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
26 -
Undercover Briefing
INT. COVERT SQUAD SAFE HOUSE – INDUSTRIAL SHED – DAY
Jason walks through rows of seized and undercover vehicles.
CASS walks beside him, folder in hand.
CASS
You’ll be using the Holden Ute.
They stop in front of a late-model Holden Utility. Jason runs
a hand along the hood.
JASON
Subtle.
CASS
That’s the idea. Nondescript but
quick. Like you, hopefully.
INT. COVERT SQUAD SAFE HOUSE – OFFICE SPACE, A LARGE DAYROOM
–
MOMENTS LATER
The shed is tucked away behind a row of mechanic workshops.
Faded signage, rusted roller doors. Inside: a steel table,
mismatched chairs, dusty files, maps pinned to the walls.
CASS lays a folder flat and opens it in front of Jason.
CASS
These are your new credentials.
Michael Bates — born in Ipswich,
raised in Beenleigh, couple of
petty charges but nothing jail-
worthy. Clean enough to run, dirty
enough to believe.
She lays out the driver’s licence, Medicare card, and a bank
card.
JASON
Sounds like most of my neighbours
growing up.
CASS
(dry)
Use them wisely. Don’t flash unless
you have to. And keep your real
name buried.
Jason nods. She slides the documents toward him.
CASS (CONT'D)
We’ve rented a place in Highgate
Hill for this op. Keys are in the
ignition. You have your pager, you
know how to use it.
JASON
Yeah
CASS
And here is your firearm
(handing over a small
Browning handgun)
You do not lose that or God forbid,
use it. Understood?
JASON
Feels real now.
CASS
It is. Don’t forget — this isn’t a
role. It’s a life.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
27 -
New Assignments and Undercover Antics
INT. COVERT UNIT – CASS’S OFFICE - LATER THAT DAY
CASS sits on the couch in jeans and boots, flipping through a
folder. JASON enters. Drops into a chair across from her.
CASS
Given what happened with Vlad,
we’ve decided to cut him loose.
Jason drops his head.
JASON
He was talking. I could’ve worked
him.
CASS
He was a mule, Jason. Nothing more.
Burnt after the bust — no real
network to climb.
(direct, almost an order)
And Gavin’s off the table — if he
calls you, you walk away.
Jason exhales, nods reluctantly.
She slides a file across.
CASS (CONT'D)
This is where we pivot. Your new
informant.
Jason opens it. A photo of RITA stares back at him — leopard
print, club floor, sunglasses at night.
JASON
Has she been an informant all that
time?
CASS
Rita’s been feeding low-level intel
for years, but she’s got reach —
proper networks in clubs and crews.
She can take you further up the
ladder than Vlad ever could. I did
tell you I knew a lot of people.
Jason keeps flipping.
CASS (CONT'D)
(suppressing a laugh)
You’re going to be her boyfriend.
Gay. Whatever sells. You play it
how she wants it.
JASON
You’re enjoying this aren’t you?
CASS
(smiling)
You meet her tonight.
Jason closes the file slowly.
JASON
You don’t make life easy, do you?
CASS
What do you mean, are you ready?
JASON
Do I have a choice?
CASS
Not really.
JASON
Yeah. Just… I gotta go home and get
changed at least.
Cass raises an eyebrow.
CASS
Clean shirt, try and not look like
a grub. And for god’s sake —
moisturise.
Jason stands, file in hand, half-smirking as he walks out.
JASON
I’ll wear my good thongs.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
28 -
Silent Tensions
INT. OXLEY HOUSE
Quiet. The dog stirs on the couch. Taylor is curled up
watching TV. Jason walks in.
TAYLOR
Did it go okay?
Jason nods, slow.
JASON
They have given me a new operation.
I have to meet a new informant
tonight.
Silence.
TAYLOR
Just… don’t shut me out completely,
Jason. I can handle more than you
think.
Jason exhales, but he’s got nothing.
ACT FOUR
Genres:
["Crime","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
29 -
Undercover Transformations
INT. RITA’S UNIT – NIGHT
Rita is wandering around pouring two glasses of wine. She is
dressed in a leopard print dress.
Jason stands awkwardly in the doorway. Dressed clean but
unsure — clearly still Jason, not yet “Michael.”
They size each other up. It's quiet, but not unfriendly.
RITA
So... you're the one they gave me.
JASON
Guess so.
She sips, eyes him.
RITA
You’re taller than I remembered —
but still as cute.
(stares him up and down)
Still that bloody flanno, darling.
You didn’t think to dress for the
occasion?
She tosses him a white skivvy and Jag jeans, handing them
over with theatrical flair.
RITA (CONT'D)
We’re going upmarket now. And it’s
not Mick, you are Michael darling.
JASON
You got something against BCF?
RITA
Darling — unless BCF now stands for
Bisexual Closet Fantasy, no. Sit
down.
LATER – AT THE KITCHEN TABLE
They sit with wine. Cigarettes burn in an ashtray. Jason’s
trying to take notes. Rita’s running circles around him.
RITA (CONT'D)
Okay, story time. We met at a club
— which one?
JASON
Red Garter?
RITA
Obviously. How long?
JASON
Three months?
RITA
Four. You were obsessed. Couldn’t
stop texting me.
Jason rolls his eyes.
JASON
This is the weirdest op I’ve ever
done.
RITA
You’re not only pretending to be
gay, you’re pretending to be mine.
That’s way harder.
Jason almost smiles.
RITA (CONT'D)
You still get to stare at girls,
but nobody gets suspicious if you
know all the words to Waterloo.
JASON
Do I?
RITA
By next week you will.
Jason laughs under his breath. Then stops.
JASON
You reckon this’ll work?
RITA
Last time I saw you, you had a
goatee that looked like it was
trying to escape your face.
(pause)
This? This is an improvement.
Jason exhales, looks at the outfit again. His old self
already slipping.
JASON
I better go home and meet Michael
properly… hope he likes my
wardrobe.
RITA
Yes, you had better — ’cause it’s
not just your ass on the line, it’s
mine... Metaphorically of course,
unless the mood strikes.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Crime","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
30 -
Silent Tension
INT. HIGHGATE HILL APARTMENT – NIGHT
A tired, sparse one-bedroom unit. Dining table with a
backpack tossed on it. A laptop sits beside it, charging. The
wraparound balcony groans as wind howls outside. Paint crew
gantries creak against the outer wall.
Jason walks out of the shower in a towel. He pauses. Glances
toward the bedroom — then turns back toward the dining table.
He unzips the backpack. Reaches in.
Pulls out his Browning pistol. Holds it for a beat. Breathes.
Then turns and walks to the bedroom.
INT. BEDROOM – MOMENTS LATER
Jason opens the closet. Reaches above the door frame.
Places the pistol on the ledge, out of sight.
He flicks off the light. Slides into bed.
Pause.
The wind picks up outside. Gantries clank.
Jason stares at the ceiling, listening.
FADE TO BLACK.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
31 -
Whispers of the Night
INT. APARTMENT – BEDROOM – EARLY MORNING (2AM)
FADE IN
The wind THUMPS outside. Gantries clank against the wall. A
hollow bang.
Jason’s eyes snap open.
He sits up. Peers out into the lounge room — only the front
door and a chair are visible.
He stares and listens, controlling his breathing, almost to
the point of holding his breath.
Nothing.
JASON
(wary)
Just the wind. Just the wind.
He lies back down. Breathes slowly. The banging continues
faintly outside.
He pulls the covers up and closes his eyes.
The camera pans from JASON’s bed out through the bedroom
doorway. At the edge of the vision two shadows disappear out
the balcony door and door is slid to almost closed from the
outside.
FADE TO BLACK.
Genres:
["Thriller","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
32 -
A Disturbing Discovery
INT. APARTMENT – MORNING
Sunlight spills into the kitchen. Jason, dressed for the day,
grabs his keys off the table edge. Heads for the door.
He freezes mid-step.
The sliding balcony door is ajar — maybe 5 cm. Curtains
gently billow.
JASON
What the—
He walks to the door, slowly. Slides it open further. Wind
rushes in. He peers out onto the balcony — nothing.
He turns back inside.
Stops cold.
His laptop — gone.
He walks to the table. Stares at the empty space. His
backpack is gone too.
His hand runs through his hair. He looks toward the bedroom.
Up to the door frame.
Beat.
He exhales and picks up the cordless phone and dials a
number.
JASON
Yeah Cass, I think we have a
problem.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
33 -
Under Pressure
INT. COVERT UNIT OFFICE – LATE MORNING
Cass at her desk. Jason bursts in — wild eyes, out of breath.
CASS
You alright?
JASON
Yeah, just peachy. Someone breaks
into my place, nicks my laptop, and
nearly finds a gun. Normal
Thursday.
CASS
Local uniforms called. Wasn’t just
you. Some grubs used the painters’
lift out back and hit half a dozen
flats.
Jason paces.
JASON
I’ve got a fake name, fake job,
fake flat — I’m starting to forget
what’s real. And that laptop? First
thing you see when it boots up —
Queensland Police Service logo the
size of a bloody billboard. Job
logs, notes, everything. I’m
undercover living with gear that
screams “cop”.
CASS
(sarcastically)
Then pray they weren’t curious
enough to hit the power button.
Cass looks at Jason and sees his frustration. She has genuine
concern on her face.
CASS (CONT'D)
I get it, they hand you kit that
screams ‘cop’ and hope it’s random
when it blows back. If you burn,
you burn.
JASON
Feels like I’m being set up to
fail.
Cass watches him pace, letting him burn out before answering.
CASS
Or set up to survive. Depends how
careful you are.
(beat)
But to be safe — you’re moving.
(MORE)
CASS (CONT'D)
(beat)
Michael needs you safe.
JASON
You sound just like my mother.
CASS
I’m not your mother, Jason. What is
it with you and your mother anyway?
Cass raises an eyebrow. Jason sits, the edge softening just a
touch.
JASON
She’s a defence lawyer. Wanted me
at uni, not chasing junkies. Thinks
I’m wasting my talent.
Cass studies him — half respect, half warning.
CASS
Then don’t prove her right.
Jason shifts; the mask slips a fraction. A long, empty beat.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
34 -
A Night of Teasing Tension
INT. NIGHTCLUB / STRIP CLUB – LATER THAT WEEK
Neon haze. Wall mirrors. Legs and sequins everywhere. The
kind of place that smells like perfume, disinfectant, and old
vodka.
JASON walks in with RITA on his arm. He’s sharp tonight —
white skivvy, crisp Jag jeans, polished boots. Jason almost
looks like he belongs.
They make their way through the club. A couple of girls wave
— one of them, IVY (early 20s, wild but warm), pulls Rita in
for a hug, then turns to Jason.
IVY
This him?
RITA
Depends what mood I’m in.
Ivy drops into Jason’s lap, playful.
IVY
Oops — sorry, Michael.
Ivy does a slow grind before she hops off, giggling.
Jason freezes, uneasy.
Rita watches him. Sees it.
RITA
Michael... are you seriously
getting hard?
Jason’s face is half-red, half-confused.
JASON
I didn’t mean to. She just—
RITA
She sat on your lap, not your soul.
(picks up her wine)
You’re supposed to be a blouse, not
a bonk-on with a pulse.
Jason squirms.
JASON
She was… enthusiastic.
Rita smiles sweetly, sipping.
RITA
You’re lucky I like a challenge.
Genres:
["Crime","Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
35 -
Facades and Fractures
INT. RITA’S UNIT – BATHROOM – NIGHT
Jason stares into the mirror. White skivvy on, hair slicked.
He grips the sink, breathing hard.
JASON
(muttering, to himself)
You’re Michael. They don’t know
you. They only see what you show.
A beat. He glances toward the door, uneasy.
JASON (CONT'D)
(softer)
She thinks I’m bi. Fine. Whatever
it takes.
He slaps his cheeks, steels himself.
Knock at the door.
RITA (O.S.)
Michael, honey? You okay in there?
Been a while.
Jason stares one last beat, then forces Michael on. He opens
the door, smiling.
JASON
Yeah sorry just need a minute
alone. It was very hectic tonight.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
36 -
A Toast to Deception
INT. RITA’S UNIT – LATE NIGHT
Jason slumps on the couch. Rita pours drinks. A VHS of
Priscilla, Queen of the Desert plays in the background. ABBA
on tinny TV speakers.
JASON
Am I meant to know all the words to
ABBA by next week?
RITA
That’s phase two.
(sips wine)
JASON
Phase two?
RITA
Gay’s a stretch — no offence. You
can barely walk past Bras N Things
without staring.
JASON
I wasn’t staring. I was… observing.
RITA
Sure. Anyway — Gay won't play for
you — you’ll pass better as bi.
Less dangerous to your boyish
charms.
JASON
Oh, do I get a say?
RITA
No. Bi’s easier. Trust me.
JASON
(sarcastic)
So I’m officially sexually
ambiguous?
RITA
You’re officially believable.
Jason leans back, still processing. Rita watches him for a
beat, then smirks.
RITA (CONT'D)
How do you know if you don’t try,
sweetheart?
JASON
Oh I am pretty sure I know.
She grins. They clink glasses.
FADE OUT.
Genres:
["Crime","Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
37 -
Late Night Confessions
EXT. SAFEHOUSE – LATE NIGHT
Wide shot. Jason pulls in, headlights washing over the roller
door.
As he unlocks and heads inside, a pair of headlights lingers
at the end of the street.
Engine idling. Cigarette flare. Then the car eases away into
the dark.
INT. SAFEHOUSE – LATE NIGHT
The room’s bare, functional. Jason sits at the table, Jag
jeans still on, notepad open but untouched. He picks up the
battered phone, dials a number.
INTERCUT – TAYLOR’S BEDROOM
Taylor’s half-asleep, hair mussed, lamp still off. The phone
beside her bed rings. She fumbles, then answers, squinting.
TAYLOR
What time is it?
JASON
I know, it’s late. I’m sorry I
didn’t mean to wake you.
TAYLOR
It’s always the job first, isn’t
it?
Silence
TAYLOR (CONT'D)
(she softens, quieter)
I just… I miss you sometimes.
JASON
(muted)
Me too.
A silence. Taylor exhales.
TAYLOR
Do you want to come over?
Jason rubs his face slowly.
JASON
I can’t.
Silence stretches, heavy.
TAYLOR
I told you I wouldn’t choose the
pretence. But that’s all you’re
giving me lately.
JASON
I know, I'm sorry.
Beat
TAYLOR
I can’t keep patching up the holes,
Jason. You don’t let me in.
Jason exhales, nothing.
The line goes dead. He stares at the notepad, alone.
Genres:
["Crime","Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
38 -
Caution in the Café
INT. CAFÉ – NEXT MORNING
Jason and Nick order coffees at a counter of a coffee shop
and the look for somewhere to sit.
NICK
Anywhere here’s fine.
Jason hesitates, scanning the street through the glass. He
gestures toward a corner booth.
JASON
(Pointing to a table in
the corner)
Let’s grab that one. Better view of
the road.
They sit down with Jason sitting in a position where he can
see the entrance and the road outside.
Nick eyes him, curious, but lets it slide.
NICK
(chuckles)
Corner booth, huh? You’ll fit right
in.
Nick stirs his flat white, watching Jason across the table.
Jason looks wired, not rested.
NICK (CONT'D)
You look like shit.
JASON
Didn’t sleep. Thought I was being
followed home last night —
Commodore parked down the street.
By the time I got upstairs, they
were gone.
NICK
And you didn’t call it in?
JASON
Figured it was nothing.
NICK
(leans in)
Nothing’ll get you killed quicker
than a bullet. Next time, you call
it.
Nick sits back, softer.
NICK (CONT'D)
You’re green, mate. But sharp. Just
don’t get cocky.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
39 -
Caution in the Chaos
INT. RITA’S UNIT – AFTERNOON
SUB – A FEW DAYS LATER
Rita lounges, one leg tucked under her. Jason scribbles in
his pad, trying to keep up.
JASON
This whole scene feels like chaos.
RITA
(half flirty, half deadly
serious)
You think speed’s a wild ride? Try
crossing Alfonse. He’s old school —
you don’t just lose money, you lose
kneecaps.
Jason’s look says he is unsure if the comment is a joke or a
warning.
Rita gets up mid-sentence, grabs a Coke from the fridge.
RITA (CONT'D)
Speed’s not about forgetting — it’s
about feeling.
(She spins, arms wide like
a showgirl.)
It’s the disco ball of drugs.
She laughs, big and unashamed. Cracks open the can of Coke.
She takes a swig, shrugs, then digs in the cupboard, pulls
out a half-empty packet of cold-and-flu tabs. She rattles it,
drops it on the table, crushes it with the heel of her hand.
RITA (CONT'D)
You get your pseudo from these
little bastards. Cut it with half a
hardware store, cook it in
something that smells like melted
Tupperware.
Jason raises an eyebrow, scribbles.
JASON
Sounds gourmet.
RITA
If you’re lucky, you keep your
eyebrows.
She lights a cigarette, gestures to a tiny ziplock on the
coffee table — an alien sticker slapped on the front.
RITA (CONT'D)
Packaging’s its own racket. Yuppies
get caps, ravers get cartoons. Had
a bloke once brand his with Bart
Simpson — sold out in a week. Until
some mum found little Bart heads on
her coffee table and called the
cops.
She exhales smoke, smirks.
RITA (CONT'D)
Crime, darling, is just capitalism
without tax.
Jason chuckles, then stops himself — unsure if he should be
laughing.
Rita watches him, amused but intrigued.
RITA (CONT'D)
You’re cute when you’re studious.
JASON
I'm cute all of the time,
(smiling sarcastically at
Rita)
Rita feigns indifference.
JASON (CONT'D)
So it’s not just product. It really
is a different crowd.
RITA
Different rules.
(beat)
Different predators.
Jason leans back, notepad full. He nods, taking it in.
RITA (CONT'D)
And Michael?
He looks up.
RITA (CONT'D)
Remember — fewer questions. Just
watch and listen, especially around
Alfonse.
ACT FIVE
Genres:
["Crime","Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
40 -
Casual Concerns in Chaos
INT. DRUG SQUAD – DAYROOM – EARLY EVENING
The room hums with quiet chaos. Phones ring. Whiteboards full
of names and numbers. Nick sits at his desk, a little more
worn than usual.
Cass walks over with two coffees.
CASS
You look like shit.
NICK
Probably because I feel like it.
CASS
You seen Jason?
NICK
He’s out with Rita. Should be back
soon. You need him?
CASS
Just want an update before this
thing gets too big to steer.
Nick rubs his chest absentmindedly. Cass watches.
NICK
He’s doing alright, you know. Smart
kid. Sharp. Bit of fire, too.
CASS
He’ll need it.
He grimaces.
NICK
Christ. Heartburn again.
CASS
Drink your water.
She walks off.
Genres:
["Crime","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
41 -
A Toast to Trust
INT. STRIP CLUB – LOUNGE AREA – NIGHT
Low light. Leather booths. Rita and Jason are seated in a
semi-private lounge space near the rear of the club. It’s
quieter here. Controlled.
RITA
See, darling — you’ve done the taxi
mules, you’ve met the club boys.
Alfonse? He’s the next rung up.
(MORE)
RITA (CONT'D)
Two down, one to go. Try not to
fall off the ladder.
Rita smiles sweetly at Jason. He nods.
Jason sips a Kahlua and milk, trying not to look like he’s
watching the door.
RITA (CONT'D)
We won’t stay long. I’ve got to
speak to Alfonse. You try not to
undress anyone with your eyes this
time.
Jason adjusts slightly. Rita smirks — then looks up, seeing
someone across the floor.
RITA (CONT'D)
Speak of the devil.
ALFONSE approaches. Mid-50s, compact, stylish, eyes like
razors. Jason moves to stand, but Rita pats his knee.
RITA (CONT'D)
Relax.
She stands instead and greets Alfonse with cheek kisses and a
familiar ease.
RITA (CONT'D)
Alfonse. Thanks for coming over,
love.
ALFONSE
Always a pleasure.
He eyes Jason as he slides into the booth.
RITA
This is Michael — the one I
mentioned.
Alfonse doesn’t offer a hand yet. Just studies Jason.
RITA (CONT'D)
We were just talking about your
brother. Still running things from
his little glass castle?
ALFONSE
He pops his head up now and then.
Still likes to be seen. Even if no
one says his name out loud these
days.
He finally turns to Jason. Offers a hand. Jason shakes it —
soft grip, controlled.
ALFONSE (CONT'D)
Rita says you’re looking for some
product. That right?
JASON
Yeah, maybe. Just starting out.
Nothing too big to begin with — see
how it goes.
ALFONSE
That’s smart. She says you’ve got
access to a couple of clubs?
JASON
One regular, couple of float-ins.
Right scene. People with cash.
Alfonse nods.
ALFONSE
Alright. You’ll get my number from
her. Don’t call late. I’ll tell you
what I’ve got, not the other way
round.
He flags down a bar girl, points to their drinks.
ALFONSE (CONT'D)
Another round, yeah?
RITA
He’s a Kahlua and milk boy.
Alfonse raises an eyebrow. Doesn’t comment.
The bar girl nods and walks off.
Alfonse stands.
ALFONSE
Good to meet you, Michael.
JASON
You too.
Alfonse heads off — not rushed, but finished.
Jason watches him go.
JASON (CONT'D)
He doesn’t trust me.
RITA
He doesn’t TRUST anyone. But he’ll
deal with you — because of me.
She lifts her glass. Jason lifts his.
RITA (CONT'D)
You did alright, darling. Bit
green, but you didn’t blink. That’s
half the game.
Jason frowns — not sure if she’s praising him or cutting him
down.
RITA (CONT'D)
To surviving in the company of
dangerous men.
They clink glasses.
Genres:
["Crime","Thriller","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
42 -
Heartbeats and Tensions
INT. DRUG SQUAD OFFICE – DAYROOM – LATER
Nick sits forward suddenly, hand to chest. Eyes wide. He
stands, staggers, tries to call out—
Then drops.
DETECTIVE
Nick! Shit—CALL AN AMBULANCE!
INT. STREET – MOMENTS LATER
Jason walks down Brunswick Street Mall, feeling good with
himself.
His pager buzzes.
He checks it.
Stops walking.
INT. HOSPITAL WAITING ROOM – LATE NIGHT
Jason sits on the floor propped up, pale but restless. Cass
leans against the wall, finishing yet another spiel.
JASON
Does this mean you’ll be telling me
how to survive a lot more now?
CASS
(small smirk)
Careful. Keep looking at me like
that and I’ll start thinking I
really am your mother.
JASON
(chuckles, then sobers)
Don’t push it.
Cass lets the silence hang, then pushes off the wall. She
grabs her empty cup, heads toward the coffee machine in the
hall.
Footsteps. Jason looks up.
It’s Taylor, in scrubs — tired eyes, surprised to see him.
TAYLOR
What are you doing here?
JASON
Nick had a heart attack. He’s
stable — nothing major, but he’s
out.
TAYLOR
I’m on Level 4 tonight. I didn’t
realise...
She trails off, sees it in his face.
Taylor crouches, steady but firm. She takes his wrist and
counts under her breath.
TAYLOR (CONT'D)
Your pulse is racing.
JASON
I'm fine.
Taylor presses a cup of water into Jason's hand.
TAYLOR
That’s stress, Jason — you can’t
just patch it with bravado.
Jason takes a sip, looking anywhere but at her.
She checks her pager. Frowns. A beat — she’s processing.
Cass approaches with two coffees, still reading the pager.
Slows when she sees Taylor.
CASS
You must be Taylor. Heard a lot
about you.
TAYLOR
(flat)
Likewise.
CASS
(waving her pager)
With Nick out, my role’s changed. I
was looking after all the UCs — now
I’m your controller.
Jason looks between her and Taylor, caught.
JASON
You good with that?
CASS
Are you?
Jason half-smiles.
JASON
Yeah. I’ll live.
CASS
New faces, new targets. It’s just
getting started.
(leans in)
Nick was right — you’re doing good
work. Keep it up.
She walks off. Silence.
TAYLOR
You have to go back tonight?
JASON
No. Got the night off.
She hesitates, then takes his hand.
TAYLOR
Then here’s the deal — if you need
me, you ring before midnight.
Otherwise, don’t.
(beat; softens)
I’ll meet you at home.
He nods.
Genres:
["Crime","Drama","Thriller"]
Ratings
Scene
43 -
Under Pressure
INT. PUB – NIGHT
Jason and DJ sit at a sticky table with beers. Footy on the
TV in the corner. DJ leans back, smirking.
Jason shifts in his chair, eyes flicking toward both exits.
DJ watches him and smirks.
DJ
Relax, mate — only thing hunting
you here’s the bar tab. And maybe
one or two cuties over there.
Jason forces a chuckle, but his hand stays tight around his
glass.
DJ (CONT'D)
So, you’re telling me you’ve gotta
play the boyfriend?
JASON
(covering discomfort with
bravado)
Yeah. Bisexual boyfriend.
Informant’s a trans woman. It’s
part of the cover.
DJ nearly chokes on his beer, grinning.
DJ
Mate, Snappy as a bisexual
boyfriend… that I’d pay to see.
Jason forces a laugh, then goes quiet, peeling at the label
on his bottle.
DJ (CONT'D)
I heard about your controller.
Dropping with a heart attack at his
desk?
Jason nods, grim.
JASON
In this job the one sure thing is
stress will get you.
DJ nods soberly.
DJ
So do you have a new one?
JASON
Yeah, Cass — remember the female
detective from the station that
morning?
DJ
She was cute, you know I’ve got a
weakness for older women.
JASON
Just older women? And she would eat
you alive.
They both laugh. Jason takes a sip of his beer. He then
blurts out before he can stop himself.
JASON (CONT'D)
And I’m… thinking of proposing.
DJ raises his brows, leans forward.
DJ
To the informant? Jesus, mate —
that’s commitment.
Jason deadpans.
JASON
Taylor.
Beat. DJ studies him, then snorts, shaking his head.
JASON (CONT'D)
Twat.
DJ
(raising his glass)
Here’s to you getting hitched. Make
me best man — the party’ll be one
for the ages.
Jason shrugs, avoids eye contact.
JASON
Thanks DJ. It feels like what’s
expected. Feels like now or never.
Beat. DJ studies him — sees the conflict but doesn’t press.
DJ
You do you, Snappy. Just… don’t
forget which you is actually you.
Jason looks away, the weight settling.
Genres:
["Crime","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
44 -
A Proposal Under Suspicion
INT. UPSCALE RESTAURANT – NIGHT – A FEW DAYS LATER
Jason and Taylor sit across from each other. Candles. Wine.
She’s glowing. He’s fidgety.
Jason’s hand rests on a small box beneath the napkin.
An OLDER MAN, 60s, walks past with Crystal on his arm — now
dressed elegantly, a flash of red in her outfit.
OLDER MAN
(to her, indulgent)
Crystal, tonight’s about you
enjoying yourself.
Jason stiffens. Crystal’s eyes meet his — a flicker of
recognition.
CRYSTAL
Hi.
Jason forces a quick nod, too stiff — then his eyes flick to
the restaurant exits, scanning them out of habit.
A beat — his paranoia bleeding through — before he looks back
to Taylor.
TAYLOR
(low)
Who’s that?
JASON
Nobody. Just a girl from the club.
Taylor studies him closely, her doubts deepening.
TAYLOR
Flirting with dancers, were you?
Jason’s grip tightens on his glass. He manages a weak shrug.
JASON
It was nothing.
Taylor studies him — catching more in his reaction than his
words.
TAYLOR
(quiet, cutting)
You sound just like him.
JASON
Who?
TAYLOR
My father.
Jason grips the ring box tighter, jaw hard. He exhales — no
speech, no preamble. He slides the open box across the table.
Taylor stares at it, her breath catching.
JASON
Will you marry me?
Taylor doesn’t answer right away. She looks at Jason — really
looks — and for a moment she seems miles away. A flicker of
fear, doubt, love, all tangled.
Then she forces a small smile.
TAYLOR
Yes… but don’t make me regret it.
(beat, softer)
I do love you, Jason. I wouldn’t
still be here if I didn’t.
(her eyes drop, steadier
now)
But one lie — and I’m gone. I’m not
my mother.
She lowers her eyes to the wine glass. The faint smile never
reaches her eyes.
Jason exhales, relief flooding his face.
JASON V.O.
Two names, one face. Someone was
always gonna notice.
TAG
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
45 -
The Weight of a Name
INT. SAFE HOUSE – BEDROOM – NIGHT
Jason sits at a small desk, mini tape recorder beside him. We
don’t see his face, just his torso and hands.
He hits PLAY.
His own voice echoes back faintly —
RECORDED JASON (O.S.)
Name’s Michael.
He stares into a mirror — face obscured in shadow.
But we catch flashes:
— Dyed white-blonde hair. — A gold nose ring glinting under
the lamp. — Dark eyes, unreadable.
His real name never spoken. His real face never shown.
Just the identity he now wears.
CLICK. The tape stops.
JASON (V.O.)
Rita said the trick was making
Michael real. The more real I made
him, the less Jason showed up.
SMASH TO BLACK.
TITLES / CREDITS
END OF EPISODE.