INT. THE SAVORY CLAM BAR AND GRILL - DAY
BUSBOYS and WAITRESSES dart between tables, their arms
stacked with trays and dishes.
At a back table sits LISHA BREE ROBERTSON (28, Puerto Rican
American, petite, very pretty with heavy eyes), twirling her
glass absentmindedly. Her gaze drifts to different
couples...fingers intertwined, smiles illuminating.
LISHA
(softly)
They make it look so...effortless.
She turns toward the window, gazing out into the distance,
watching people stroll by. Outside, ALEX NICHOLS (her ex, 30,
African American/Puerto Rican with a light complexion, good
looking) strolls by.
She turns away quickly. Her fingers tremble, ice clinks in
the glass. She looks back, he's gone.
ALEX (V.O.)
(warm, frayed)
You’re my always, Li...
She slams the glass down, tosses cash on the table,
hesitates. Her eyes linger on the empty chair in front of
her. She quickly stands, exits.
EXT. THE SAVORY CLAM BAR AND GRILL - CONTINUOUS
Lisha stands frozen, watching Alex round the corner. Her
whisper merges with the wind.
LISHA
(bitter)
Just walking by without a care in
the world. Jerk.
She turns sharply, walking in the opposite direction.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - LATER
SKYLAR MCKENZIE ROBERTS (28, Caucasian, wavy brown hair, a
whirlwind in human form) plops an unruly stack of books down
on the desk with a THUD.
SKYLAR
Hey, I’m bouncing out early.
Lisha’s brow knits, disappointment flickers across her face.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
C'mon. You give me that face on
every date I have.
Lisha shelves the books harder.
LISHA
Your taste in guys is....how should
I put it...laughable. I mean, are
you even trying?
Skylar opens her purse, pulled out a compact, opening it to
look at her reflection.
SKYLAR
It's better to have messed up taste
than no taste 'cause you ain't even
try.
She snaps it shut before dropping it back in her purse.
Skylar slings her purse over her shoulder and heads toward
the door. She blows a mocking kiss, exits.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
Catch ya later.
She FLICKS the lights off. The library drowns in shadows. She
looks around the empty library then locks the door. The CLICK
echoes in the still library.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
2 -
A Night Out
INT. APARTMENT LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
A dim lamp casts a warm glow over the cluttered but cozy
living room. Lisha, curled into the corner of the sofa, her
expression distant as she absently clicks through TV
channels...a 1980s sitcom, sports, a rom-com.
She lingers on the rom-com, lips in a tight line, until a
couple kisses. She jams the power button, the room plunges
into silence.
The front door CREAKS open as Skylar strides in, plopping
down in a chair and tossing her purse on the floor next to
her. She GROANS dramatically as she kicks her heels into the
wall...THUNK. Lisha does not look up.
LISHA
So, what was it? The date of doom
or a maybe-we-can-do-this-again
situation?
Skylar shoots her a look, with a smirk on her face. Her eyes
drift to the coffee mug Lisha’s holding.
SKYLAR
We meet up Sunday. But for now, I'm
not spending the rest of my Friday
night on chit-chat and cold coffee.
Lisha CHUCKLES as she stares at her untouched coffee. Her
thumb rubs the chipped rim of her mug. Skylar studies her.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
You stuck here since work, huh? You
eat yet?
Lisha rolls her eyes.
LISHA
The fridge smells like burritos and
disappointment.
Skylar’s eyes widen and her brow furrows. She leans forward,
elbow on her knees.
SKYLAR
Okay. How ‘bout cheap pizza, and...
the arcade?
Lisha leans back against the sofa, eyes closed, basking in
the dim glow of the room.
LISHA
Or, I could just remain frozen in
this moment for the next decade.
Skylar smirks, her energy unwavering.
SKYLAR
Nice try. Get up.
Skylar disappears to her room. The MUFFLED sound of drawers
slamming. Lisha doesn’t move. Skylar returns in jeans and a
barely there blouse. Lisha opens her eyes and looks at her.
LISHA
You realize it's freezing?
Skylar shrugs nonchalantly, leaves, heads back to grab a
sheer sweater and returns, flashing a grin.
SKYLAR
No dude's lookin' twice at a thick
coat.
Skylar LAUGHS.
LISHA
Weren't you just out with someone?
SKYLAR
Hey, we all got our struggles.
Yours ain't fixin’ itself while
you’re hidin’ inside.
Skylar gently pulls Lisha up to her feet. Lisha wobbles a
bit, rolling her eyes while Skylar puts an arm around her
shoulder.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
You’ll be glad later.
Lisha snorts, but her hesitation turns into a small smile as
they step outside.
Genres:
["Drama","Comedy"]
Ratings
Scene
3 -
Unspoken Struggles
INT. APARTMENT LIVING ROOM - TWO DAYS LATER
Lisha sits curled on the sofa, with a half empty glass of
wine dangling from her fingertips. A well-worn book lies
open, forgotten in her lap. She takes a slow sip of wine as
her eyes drift to the door.
With a frustrated SIGH, she snaps the book shut. The sound
echoing in the quiet. She rises, makes her way to the
kitchen. Lisha grabs a salad, poking at it listlessly.
The front door bursts open. Skylar enters, HUMMING, a bouquet
of vibrant yellow roses, sunflowers and chrysanthemums in her
arms. Lisha focuses on the salad in front of her.
Skylar walks to the kitchen, setting the flowers on the
counter. She looks at Lisha, eyes narrowing. Lisha continues
picking at her salad while taking small bites. Skylar watches
for a moment before moving to sit down, leaning forward.
SKYLAR
Saw Alex tonight.
Lisha’s fork freezes mid-air. A cherry tomato rolls off her
plate. She ignores it.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
He wanted to know 'bout you.
Lisha bites her bottom lip. She stands abruptly, tosses her
salad in the trash. The trash can lid SLAMS shut and the
plate hits the sink with a loud CLINK. Skylar flinches.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
Look. I get it, but ya can’t...
LISHA
What?
Skylar EXHALES, gets up, walks toward Lisha, reaches out to
touch Lisha's arm gently.
SKYLAR
Maybe I don’t get it. But watching
you struggle like this... it really
bums me out.
Lisha turns on the faucet, scrubbing her hands under the hot
water. Skylar steps closer.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
Ain't saying to rush into dating.
Just... open up a bit. Even if it's
just to me.
Lisha turns off the water and grabs a towel. She meets
Skylar’s gaze.
LISHA
(whispering)
It’s not that simple.
Skylar nods.
SKYLAR
It ain’t ever.
Lisha manages a faint smile as Skylar gives her quick hug. As
she pulls away, Lisha’s smile fades, leaving a flicker of
uncertainty in her eyes.
Genres:
["Drama","Friendship"]
Ratings
Scene
4 -
Unresolved Tensions
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - NEXT DAY
Skylar walks up to Lisha with Alex, nervously following
behind her.
Lisha watches as Skylar flashes a knowing smile as she
saunters away leaving Alex at the counter. Alex EXHALES as
he glances around.
ALEX
I don’t remember the library being
this quiet.
Lisha’s face tightens.
LISHA
Seems loud to me.
Alex flinches at the edge in her voice.
ALEX
Lisha...you look good.
Her arms cross her chest.
LISHA
Why. Are. You. Here.
ALEX
Just coffee so we can talk.
Lisha’s arms tighten across her chest. Somewhere behind an
aisle, a shadow shifts...A TALL MAN watches intently.
ALEX (CONT’D)
Lisha, babe...
LISHA
(hisses)
Don’t. Just don’t...
Alex clears his throat, looking around again. Lisha takes a
deep breath.
LISHA (CONT’D)
Two years. *Two* whole years. After
all this time... You couldn't be
bothered, but *now* I cross your
mind? Really?
He steps in closer with his hands raised.
ALEX
(whispers)
I know, but...
Lisha’s LAUGH is bitter. She shakes her head, jaw set.
LISHA
You showed up two years too late.
Guess you can leave now.
Alex SWALLOWS hard. The TALL MAN’s silhouette lingers in the
shadows.
ALEX
(pleading)
Look, Just ten minutes.
Lisha turns away, lips trembling.
LISHA
Leave.
Alex opens his mouth...closes it. He stands frozen, turns and
trudges out. Lisha stares after him, unaware of the TALL MAN
melting into the shadows.
Skylar walks up to her desk, spinning a chair around.
SKYLAR
(softly)
He looked rough.
Lisha jabs her computer’s power button.
LISHA
Good.
Skylar leans in.
SKYLAR
Ain’t just him, ya know? It's fine
if you want him back.
Lisha’s fingers hover over the keyboard, frozen.
LISHA
(quiet)
I don’t want him back. I’m allowed
to move on.
Skylar SIGHS, nudging a tissue toward her.
SKYLAR
Sure. But are you really?
Lisha opens her mouth, then closes it, eyes downcast.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
5 -
Echoes of the Past
INT. APARTMENT LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Skylar lounges on the couch, texting and sipping a beer.
Lisha sits across from her, reading a book with a half-
finished glass of wine on the table.
Skylar’s phone RINGS. Without looking at the number, she
answers it.
SKYLAR
Hello....Alex? What’s up?
Lisha’s head snaps up. Skylar looks in her direction with a
huge grin as Lisha rapidly shakes her head.
LISHA
(sharp whisper)
Don’t. You. Dare. And when did you
both swap digits?
Skylar holds her hand over the phone.
SKYLAR
(whisper)
You got a new number after the
split, remember?
Skylar removes her hand, eyeing Lisha.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
Uh-huh. Yeah. She’s right here.
Lisha crosses her arms, shaking her head with a clenched jaw.
Skyler pushes the phone toward her. Lisha rolls her eyes,
snatches the phone.
LISHA
(cold)
Alex. What do you want?
SKYLAR
(whispers)
Do you have to be so rude?
Lisha ignores her, takes a sip of wine.
LISHA
I told you, I don’t want...
Skylar rolls her eyes, snatches the phone from Lisha.
SKYLAR
What’s the deal?
She listens, eyes on Lisha.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
Uh-huh...
Oh. Okay. I'll try.
Skylar hangs up. Lisha’s nostrils flair.
LISHA
Whatever plans you two are
hatching, count me out.
SKYLAR
Look, it’s been a minute... Both
y'all broke. Just...just hear him
out, aight?
LISHA
Why can't you just... let things
be?
SKYLAR
Shoot, been there. Stubborn and
broke? Ugly combo.
Lisha stands abruptly, grabs her glass and sets it in the
sink. She glances at Skylar then leaves. The door SLAMS
behind her.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - NEXT DAY
Lisha shelves books mechanically and in silence. Skylar
finishes her work and heads out the door without saying a
word.
The lights begin to FLICKER, casting uneven shadows. Lisha
stops. Listens. A CREEK. She glances around...nothing.
She goes to the breaker box, FLIPS the switch, waits. The
lights FLICKER again then return to normal.
She returns to the first aisle, an ENVELOPE lies on the
floor. She picks it up, hesitates. Turns it over.
She opens it. Reads.
LISHA (V.O.)
The sorrow in your heart shall soon
fade, and solitude will no longer
caress your soul.
She turns the note over, puts it back in the envelope. She
rips it in half. The TALL MAN watches from the shadows. She
tosses it, the man disappears. Lisha turns, he’s gone.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
6 -
Unresolved Tensions at The Savory Clam
INT. THE SAVORY CLAM BAR AND GRILL - LATER
A low hum of CHATTER and CLINKING silverware fills the dimly
lit restaurant.
LISHA sits in a booth, her fingers DRUMMING the table as she
stares out the window. She glances at a ROWDY crowd entering,
then back out the rain-streaked window.
Across from her, CHELSEA EVANS (32, Puerto Rican American,
tall, poised with a model’s build, hazel eyes, short dark
hair) slides into a table across from her. A blonde man
follows. Lisha continues to watch her, their eyes lock.
Chelsea’s widen, Lisha quickly looks away.
Chelsea hesitates, slides out and slowly approaches.
CHELSEA
Lisha? I thought that was you. God,
it’s been...
Lisha looks up, cheeks turning red. She forces a smile.
LISHA
Sorry, I didn’t mean to stare. How
are you Chelsea?
Chelsea begins to fidget with her bracelet...Lisha’s eyes
glance at it, her brows furrow.
CHELSEA
I...Uhm..I’m good. How’s your...
LISHA
(rude)
She’s fine. Look I don’t want to
keep you...
Chelsea SWALLOWS hard, her jaw tightens.
CHELSEA
Right. Uhm. Anyway, it’s good to
see you again...
Lisha nods stiffly as Chelsea quickly turns and walks back to
her table.
Alex nervously walks up and slides into the booth across from
her. He glances over at Chelsea before turning back to Lisha.
ALEX
Is that Chelsea? Haven’t seen her
since...
LISHA
(rude)
Yeah. Don’t worry about it.
Alex EXHALES sharply. He shifts uncomfortably. He leans in.
ALEX
We can go somewhere else if you
don’t feel comfortable...
LISHA
(snaps)
What's so important that you need
to talk to me all of a sudden?
ALEX
(softly)
I miss you, even when I pretend not
to. And...I hate that I hurt you.
LISHA
Oh, you *miss* me? Yeah, right.
ALEX
More than I want to admit.
Lisha rolls her eyes, grabs her coat and purse.
ALEX (CONT’D)
Wait...please. Don’t...leave.
Lisha shakes her head as she stands up. Silence hangs between
them. She walks toward the door.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
7 -
Silent Struggles
INT. APARTMENT LIVING ROOM - NIGHT
Lisha walks through the door. Skylar sits, legs tucked under
her, eyes bright with a huge smile.
SKYLAR
You’re back fast. How’d it work
out?
Lisha remains quiet. She hesitates then walks straight to her
room. Skylar’s face drops as she follows behind.
INT. APARTMENT LISHA’S BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER
SKYLAR
Well?
Lisha yanks open a drawer, pulls out a worn onesie pajamas.
LISHA
I left. Told him I was under the
weather.
Skylar folds her arms across her chest.
SKYLAR
(frustrated)
What? Why? You were good earlier.
Lisha plops down on her bed and grabs her book.
LISHA
Why does it matter so much to you?
I went. I left. End of story.
Skylar stands with her mouth open.
SKYLAR
I get it. I can't watch you suffer
no more. You gotta find some joy,
and he gave you that.
Lisha opens the book, focusing on the page in front of her.
Skylar storms out of the room. She stops at the door, turns
back to look her.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
(softly)
You just got to want it.
The door CLICKS shut. Lisha EXHALES, stares at the closed
door.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - DAY
Skylar SLAMS books onto the shelves, her movements sharp. The
hardcovers THUD in the silence. She glances at Lisha’s empty
desk then turns away.
Alex approaches. He glances at the empty desk. He looks for
Skylar, walks toward her desk.
ALEX
Hey. Is she...
SKYLAR
(cutting him off)
She good. Just gotta *really* want
it, ya know?
Alex slowly nods. Skylar watches as he turns to leave.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
We all got to.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
8 -
Whispers of Dread
INT. APARTMENT LISHA’S BEDROOM - SAME TIME
Lisha sits up, reading. She lays the book face down on the
bed, gets up.
She SHUFFLES to the kitchen, POURS more coffee. She watches
the steam from the liquid swirl. Her phone BUZZES. A text
notification glows. “Alex (2:34 PM): Can we talk?”
She stares at the text...she deletes it.
Back in bed, she slowly SIPS her coffee. She sets it on the
dresser, picks up the book, closes it. She wraps the blanket
around her, eyes misty.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - NEXT DAY
Lisha grabs a stack of books from the cart. She fumbles with
the last book and drops it with a loud BANG. The lights
FLICKER.
She glances around, then picks up the book. A faded ‘earth
tone envelope’ flutters to the floor. She picks it up,
studying it. She shelves the book and carries the envelope to
her desk.
THE TALL MAN materializes in the shadows. He watches as Lisha
turns the envelope over, her eyes vacant. She carefully
unseals it.
Lisha pulls out a thin, yellowed note, elegant cursive in
faded black ink. She reads:
LISHA (V.O.)
Once more, your beauty shall
radiate like a beacon of hope, as a
smile graces your lips.
She gingerly brushes her fingers across the paper. She
hesitates... rips it in half.
Lisha walks back to her desk. Her eyes drift to a heart-
shaped paper weight, buried in a stack of papers. She picks
it up, turning it over in her hands.
The man vanishes like smoke as Lisha tosses the note and the
paper weight in the trash.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - LATER
Lisha and Skylar go through several boxes of deliveries.
Lisha grabs a clip board and methodically begins cross
checking orders while Skylar stacks books in the book carts.
SKYLAR
Is it cool if I wrap this up ‘til
tomorrow? Jared's on his way.
Lisha continues to check items off the paper.
LISHA
So it’s Jared now?
Skylar rolls her eyes and HUFFS as she puts the last book
into the cart, grabs her things and leaves. The door CLICKS
behind her. Silence.
Lisha looks up and walks over to her desk, laying the clip
board down. She walks to a book cart, spotting a book on the
floor. The lights FLICKER...dim...then surge back.
Lisha glances upward for a moment then she picks the book up.
She thumbs through it, noticing another ‘earth tone envelope’
stuck between one of the pages.
She turns the book over, looking at the back before turning
the book over to look at the spine. J. Jaxson. No photo. No
bio.
LISHA (CONT’D)
(murmurs)
Odd.
Lisha walks down several aisles to put the book away. She
walks to her desk, envelope in hand. She opens it, reads:
NOTE (LISHA’S VOICE)
The melancholy veiling your gaze
casts a shadow upon my soul. My
heart yearns to witness your
radiant joy once again.
Lisha gazes off into the distance. A SHADOW MOVES in the
aisles. Lisha whirls, eyes darting around, her BREATH
catches.
LISHA
Who’s there?
Silence. The lights BUZZ. Lisha crumbles the note and drops
it in the trash, grabs her things and dashes out the door.
THE MAN steps into the light, he watches Lisha leave. He
walks to her desk, lifting the discarded note from the trash,
gently smoothing the torn edges.
TALL MAN
(whispers)
You shall seek my presence rather
than retreat from it.
INT. APARTMENT LIVING ROOM - EVENING
Lisha sits, waiting for Skylar, eyelids drooping. The key
turns in the lock with a CLICK. Skylar notices Lisha, eyes
closed. She creeps in, turning the light off, tiptoes to her
room...
LISHA
Tell Alex to stop leaving me cringy
love notes.
Skylar YELPS.
SKYLAR
Geez. You freaked me out. What
notes you talkin’ ‘bout?
He ain't mentioned any of that.
The smile on Skylar’s face quickly dissolves as Lisha’s eyes
snaps open glaring at her.
LISHA
I don’t care. Just tell him to
stop.
Skylar frowns, heads toward her room in a huff.
SKYLAR
(low)
Tell him yourself.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
9 -
Whispers in the Library
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - NEXT DAY
The sun fades as Lisha grabs several books shelving them. She
notices a book shelved incorrectly. She pulls it out...
A faint envelope peeks out. Her hands tremble as she unfolds
the note.
THE NOTE (LISHA’S VOICE)
Though your heart bears the weight
of disdain for love’s tender
embrace, soon it shall awaken in
the warmth of passion’s return.
SKYLAR
Hey.
Startled, Lisha quickly shoves the note in the book and
begins thumbing through it.
LISHA
What?
Skylar eyes her, then the book.
SKYLAR
Watcha reading? Hope its a book on
finding love.
Skylar CHUCKLES as Lisha forces a LAUGH.
LISHA
I wish.
She shelves the book, leaving it sticking out just a tad.
SKYLAR
Latest delivery taken care of. I'm
heading out unless you need me
here.
LISHA
Go on, I’m almost done here.
Skylar leaves. Lisha waits until she’s out of sight before
pulling the book out, grabbing the note. She shoves it in her
pocket.
The lights begin to FLICKER. Lisha jumps as she turns around.
Her mouth drops.
THE TALL MAN’S face lights up. He gives her a huge smile, his
hands move to his heart.
THE MAN
In the fullness of time, our paths
have now converged.
He vanishes like a thin mist.
Lisha staggers back, GASPING for air. She glances wildly
around the library, rushes to her desk. She fumbles with the
envelope, placing it in the drawer.
She notices the envelope from the day before. She quickly
stuffs it in the drawer. A CREEK. Lisha’s eyes dart around.
She grabs her keys, runs out the door.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
10 -
Shadows of Fear
EXT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - MOMENTS LATER
Lisha’s hand shudders as she fumbles with the keys. The key
SCRATCHES the lock, slips. She drops them with a CLUNK. She
reaches to pick them up, Alex swoops down and picks them up
for her.
ALEX
(softly)
Hey...Are you okay?
Alex takes hold of her shaking hands and turns her toward
him. Lisha stands frozen, her eyes wide as she takes in short
ragged BREATHES.
Alex pulls her closer to him, wrapping her in a tight hug.
Her body trembles as she leans into him.
ALEX (CONT’D)
It’s okay. I’ve got you. I won’t
let anything happen to you.
Lisha’s grip tightens on Alex’s jacket. Over his shoulder,
the library’s dark windows reflect the street...a shadow
flickers past. Gone.
Lisha breaks the embrace. She swipes her eyes, with trembling
hands, she takes the keys...the key SCRAPES the lock.
Alex akes the keys from her, locking the door. She waits for
the CLICK before turning back to Alex.
LISHA
I... Thanks. I’m fine. I... I
thought I saw someone.
Alex steps toward the door, peering inside the dark library,
his head slowly moves left to right.
ALEX
I don’t see anyone. I could take a
look inside if it’ll make you more
comfortable.
Lisha runs a hand through her hair, shaking her head.
LISHA
No.... it’s okay. Probably just my
imagination.
Alex studies her. He takes her hand, leads her across the
street and around the corner.
Inside the library, THE TALL MAN steps toward the door,
watching.
INT. THE CRYSTAL KITCHEN - LATER
The empty restaurant is dim, soft jazz MUSIC plays softly in
the background. Alex sits across from Lisha, taking a sip of
beer while Lisha nurses a glass of wine.
ALEX
You had quite a scare back there.
You sure you don’t want me to drive
you home?
LISHA
(weakly)
I’m alright. Thanks for being
there.
Alex studies her face. He takes her trembling hand, holding
it with both of his.
ALEX
Lisha. You’re white as a ghost.
She looks away, avoiding his eyes.
ALEX (CONT’D)
I’m here for you. You’re not alone.
Lisha meets his gaze, nods weakly as she gives him a small
smile.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
11 -
Whispers in the Library
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - TWO DAYS LATER
Skylar gathers stacks of papers while Lisha says farewell to
a group of kids from an earlier field trip. Her smile fades
as the bus pulls away.
Lisha walks down the far aisle, the lights BUZZ, then
FLICKER. She stops, looks around, no one else seems to
notice.
She grabs the last book from the cart...she pauses. Another
faded envelope sticks out from the pages. She glances around,
her breath hitches as she pulls the note out.
NOTE (V.O.)
As our eyes entwined, my heart
danced with bliss. At last, I have
discovered the other half of my
heart.
Lisha stares at the note for a moment. She quickly tucks the
note and envelope in her pocket.
She thumbs through the book, reading the back cover before
putting it on the shelf. Lisha turns, walking through the
library searching for Skylar.
LISHA
There you are.
Skylar snaps her head toward Lisha, phone in hand. Lisha eyes
her phone for moment.
LISHA (CONT’D)
It’s pretty slow, you should head
out. I can finish things here.
Skylar hesitates, studying Lisha.
SKYLAR
You good? You look kinda...off.
LISHA
Yeah, I’m okay. Just feeling a bit
worn out lately.
Skylar’s phone BUZZES. She glances at it, grabs her bag, and
turns toward Lisha, searching her eyes.
SKYLAR
If stuff goes bad, you'll let me
know, right?
Lisha nods with a small smile.
LISHA
When haven’t I?
Lisha folds her hands across her chest as she leans against
one of the tables.
LISHA (CONT’D)
That’s two dates with... uh, what
was his name again?
(MORE)
LISHA (CONT’D)
Oh, right, Jared. Is he sticking
around for a third so I can meet
him?
Skylar turns and makes a face at Lisha.
SKYLAR
Jared’s cool. Just hoping this
works out and I don’t mess it up.
LISHA
Oh please, as if you could ever be
the one to screw things up.
A solemn look crosses Skylar’s face.
SKYLAR
Gotta go. See you later.
Lisha’s follows Skylar. She moves closer to get a glimpse of
JARED DAVENPORT (30, Caucasian, tall, medium build, nice
looking with brown hair, moustache and goatee).
She watches as Jared walks up to Skylar, pulling her close as
the two kiss. Lisha slowly backs away, her lips quiver.
She SWALLOWS hard, turns and walks toward her desk. She
abruptly stops, staring at the figure standing in front of
her.
LISHA
I...I didn’t notice you slip in. We
close in ten minutes...
The man slowly takes a step toward Lisha. She slowly backs
up. Her BREATH hitches.
MAN
I have traversed countless
lifetimes in search of you.
Lisha stares at the man. The FLICKERING lights cast shadows
across his face.
LISHA
Look, I...I don’t get what you’re
saying. I think it’s best if you
just..leave. Now.
The man gives Lisha a sincere smile as he slowly vanishes.
Lisha stands frozen, staring at the space the man was in.
She blinks a few times then dashes through the library,
checking the doors, locking them.
Lisha’s face is flushed as she grabs her things and rushes
out into the cold night air. Her hands shake as she locks the
door behind her.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
12 -
Emotional Turmoil at Palm Leaf Plaza
INT. PALM LEAF PLAZA - 2 DAYS LATER
Lisha and Skylar walk through the bustling mall, weaving
through the crowd. Children run around LAUGHING, babies CRY
in their strollers. Shopping bags CLATTER as they brush up
against other bags.
They pause in front of a high-end boutique window. A
mannequin dressed in a sleek dark grey tweed suit stands in
front. Skylar juggles a hand full of shopping bags while
Lisha’s hands are empty.
SKYLAR
You know, that outfit would look
great on you. Alex gonna like it.
LISHA
Why should it even matter to me if
he likes it?
Skylar’s smile falters. Lisha looks intently at it.
LISHA (CONT’D)
Don’t really like the color.
SKYLAR
Let’s see if it comes in other
colors.
LISHA
(flat)
Where would I even wear something
that nice.
Skylar bumps her in the shoulder.
SKYLAR
At work silly or... maybe that
date...with Alex?
LISHA
We’re not dating.
SKYLAR
Not yet...You’ll see.
Skylar grabs Lisha’s hands and drags her into the store with
her shopping bags banging against both their legs. Lisha
stops abruptly as Chelsea comes toward her.
CHELSEA
Lisha, Skylar, good to see you
both.
Skylar nods politely, smiles, Lisha remains silent. Chelsea
glances around the store.
CHELSEA (CONT’D)
I...I have something of Ty’s that I
think you should have.
LISHA
Just mail it.
Lisha turns grabbing Skylar by the wrist. Shopping bags
bounce and CRASH wildly as Skylar stumbles to keep up.
Chelsea calls out...her voice lost in the mall’s ROAR as
Lisha storms past gawking shoppers, her vision blurs with
unshed tears.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
13 -
Unresolved Tensions
EXT. PALM LEAF PLAZA - CONTINUOUS
Lisha and Skylar PANT heavily as they sit slumped on a bench
a few feet away from the mall entrance. Cars slowly drive up,
shoppers chat as they walk toward the entrance, fading into
the background. Lisha glares at the ground, her lips pressed
in a thin line.
SKYLAR
Why you gotta be mean to folks? I
thought you liked Chelsea. What's
the deal?
Lisha sits rigid on the bench.
LISHA
She’s the reason I don’t have my
brother.
Skylar opens her mouth then quickly closes it. She glances
around than back at Lisha, searching her face.
SKYLAR
Whatchu mean? Ty got killed in a
car crash. How is that on her?
LISHA
(quiet, venomous)
Because of what she did to him that
night.
SKYLAR
You ain't said nothin' in two
years. What the heck she even do?
A car alarm in the distance breaks the silence. Lisha gets up
and starts walking toward the car. Skylar grabs her bags,
rushing after her.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
Yo, hold up. What did she do? Talk
to me.
Lisha continues to walk. She reaches the car, quickly unlocks
the doors and gets in the driver’s seat. Skylar tosses her
bags in the back and gets in. She turns, facing Lisha.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
Okay, spill it. According to you
they had a fight. What more went
down?
Lisha starts the engine then quickly turns it off. Her hands
tightly grip the wheel as she turns toward Skylar.
LISHA
Ty... he found Chelsea with another
man, the very night he planned to
ask her to marry him. I pleaded
with him to reconsider, to talk to
her, but he was too hurt, too
angry. He just left. And that was
it. I never saw him alive again...
I should have tried harder to stop
him...
Skylar’s mouth drops.
SKYLAR
(quietly)
It ain’t your fault. You sure 'bout
another dude? Chelsea ain't the
type to cheat, 'specially on Ty.
Lisha SWALLOWS hard, staring straight ahead.
LISHA
She said they argued—something
about a high school crush, an old
one. And then… he just left.
Stormed out, she said. That's all I
know. Honestly. It feels like
there's more, though.
Lisha re-starts the car. Skylar’s takes a deep breath. She
nods slowly and looks out the window.
Lisha backs the car out of the lot. She glances quickly over
to Skylar. Skylar continues to stare out the window.
LISHA (CONT’D)
I could've sworn I told you to tell
Alex to stop with those cringy love
notes.
Skylar stiffens.
SKYLAR
(quietly)
I did. He said it ain’t him.
Lisha’s grip tightens on the steering wheel as she drives in
silence.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
14 -
A Heart-to-Heart in the Afternoon
INT. ROBERTSON HOUSEHOLD - AFTERNOON
ALMA ROBERTSON (60’s, Puerto Rican, short dark hair with a
few strands of grey) walks into the living room carrying a
tray of sandwiches, a teapot and cups. The living room is
bathed in the warm afternoon sun. Plants sit nestled in the
corners and family photos line the walls.
Alma sets the tray down and arranges a pillow behind her back
as she sits.
ALMA
You’ve got that look on your face.
What’s brothering you and don’t
tell me it’s nothing. Yo sé más.
Lisha grabs a sandwich and a napkin, sits back on the sofa.
She EXHALES sharply.
LISHA
Skylar is trying to get me and Alex
back together and...I bumped into
Chelsea a few days back.
Alma takes a sip of tea and grabs a sandwich for herself.
ALMA
Alex. Now, that’s a name I haven’t
heard in a while. Haven’t heard or
seen Chelsea since the funeral.
Alma takes a bite of her sandwich and sits back. Lisha
finishes her sandwich and leans forward.
She picks up the pot, pours, sets the pot down. Her fingers
tighten around her cup. She holds it but doesn’t take it a
sip. Alma watches her.
ALMA (CONT’D)
So are you and Alex back together?
Lisha shakes her head.
ALMA (CONT’D)
(leaning in)
Mija, you’ve been chewing on anger
for two years. Even your abuela’s
tough-as-leather carne asada goes
down easier.
Lisha CHUCKLES, the sound brittle.
LISHA
I don’t trust him and I can’t
figure out why Skylar is so hell-
bent on getting us back together.
Alma watches Lisha carefully.
ALMA
Trust takes time. What did Chelsea
want?
LISHA
She claims she’s holding onto
something of Ty’s, something she
wants to pass on to me.
Alma finishes her sandwich and reaches for another one. She
picks up the plate and holds it in front of Lisha who
hesitantly grabs the last half.
ALMA
(softly)
Your brother would be unhappy to
see you like this. He liked Alex.
We all did.
Lisha SIGHS heavily. Her eyes drift over to the photo of Ty
on the wall. A tear slides down her face. Alma follows her
gaze, eyes misty. She CLEARS her throat.
ALMA (CONT’D)
It might be a good idea to have a
chat with Skylar to establish some
guidelines.
Alma SIGHS before taking a sip of her tea.
ALMA (CONT’D)
I don’t know what happened between
them, just rumors. But it’s your
choice if you want to talk with
Chelsea.
Lisha SIGHS as she finishes the sandwich and sets her cup
down.
LISHA
Mom, I have. She won’t listen and
neither will Alex. And as for
Chelsea...I...I can’t.
Alma looks away for a moment. She turns toward Lisha.
ALMA
Have you actually bothered to have
a real conversation with Alex?
ALMA (CONT’D)
Lisha shakes her head, running a hand through her hair.
ALMA (CONT’D)
And why not?
LISHA
I can’t shake this anger towards
him.
ALMA
Two years is a long time to hold
onto resentment.
LISHA
(angry)
Mom, seriously? You want me to just
act like none of it ever mattered?
Alma drains her tea and leans forward to pour herself another
cup.
ALMA
All I’m saying is anger for so long
won’t make you happy.
Lisha looks down at her cup in silence.
ALMA (CONT’D)
Those dark circles tell me you’re
not sleeping well. ¿Qué es lo que
realmente te molesta?
Alma remains silent as she slowly sips on her tea. She waits.
Lisha takes a deep BREATH and runs a hand through her hair
again.
LISHA
(whispers)
I keep stumbling upon these... love
notes. Saying stuff about opening
my heart to love. Utter none sense.
ALMA
Since when is love utter none
sense, Hmm?
Alma pulls out a weathered journal from the side table...her
youthful handwriting visible. She opens the journal, turning
the page. She smiles, her eyes sparkle as she runs a hand
over the lettering.
ALMA (CONT’D)
Your father did something similar.
Era un poeta horrible pero tenía un
buen corazón.
Lisha moves closer to Alma, starring at the badly written
poem. She smiles.
LISHA
(quietly)
There’s a man. He... disappears.
Like smoke.
Alma’s eyebrow arches.
ALMA
What do you mean? Real men don’t
vanish, cariño unless there’s
reason. Or maybe it’s you.
Lisha stiffens. Alma smiles.
ALMA (CONT’D)
(teases)
How is he? ¿A fuego?
Lisha blushes.
LISHA
Mom.
ALMA
Well, you don’t want someone feo
looking at you.
Alma LAUGHS. Lisha fiddles with her hands as she tries not to
smile.
ALMA (CONT’D)
Seems to me you’ve got one man
vying for your attention, and
another with something to hide.
Lisha shakes her head.
ALMA (CONT’D)
Eventually, you're going to have to
decide on what you’re going to do.
LISHA
I... I can’t. No quiero que me
lastimen así otra vez.
Alma reaches out, she takes Lisha’s hands. Their eyes lock.
Lisha leans closer to her mom, resting her head on her
shoulder as she looks at the open journal.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
15 -
Whispers of the Past
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - EVENING
Lisha stands at the counter typing on the computer. A WOMAN
digs in her purse and pulls out a piece of paper, handing it
to Lisha.
She looks it over, fingers flying over the keyboard. The
woman DRUMS her nails impatiently on the counter, Lisha hands
the paper back to the woman.
WOMAN
I called earlier. The ‘Culmination
of the World’ anthology?
Lisha holds the mouse, scrolling through several pages. She
stares at the screen, then a head shake.
LISHA
I don’t have that particular book
here at the moment. I can check
around at other libraries if you’d
like.
WOMAN
(rude)
Yes. I need it for a project I’m
working on.
LISHA
I’ll do what I can. Unfortunately,
I don’t know how long it will take.
Lisha pulls a note pad from her desk and hands it to the
woman with a pen.
LISHA (CONT’D)
Write down your information. I’ll
call either way.
The woman nods, scribbles on the pad and shoves it toward
Lisha. She turns and storms out with her nose in the air.
Lisha follows behind, locking the door with a CLICK.
She walks through the library, shoving chairs in and
collecting books that are left out. She spots an earth-toned
envelope on the floor under one of the tables. She freezes.
The lights FLICKER as she picks it up. Lisha quickly puts it
in her pocket and continues straightening up the library. She
walks back to her desk taking out the envelope and the note
and begins to read it.
NOTE
My heart dances with delight, for I
have unearthed a sacred reason to
come back to you.
Lisha grabs a note pad and writes “Call maintenance re:
lights”. She looks up, noticing A MAN standing in the middle
of an aisle. Their eyes lock.
Lisha quickly stands up, as the man slowly walks toward her.
She takes a small step back, grabs her chair, stands behind
it, gripping it, her knuckles turning white.
LISHA
What do you want? We’re closed.
The man shakes his head.
MAN
Please, there is no need to be
afraid. I have no intention of
causing you harm.
LISHA
You still haven't told me what you
want.
MAN
Having found you, my foremost
desire is to witness your
happiness.
LISHA
My happiness? You don’t even know
me.
Lisha reaches across her desk and picks up one of the earth-
toned envelopes. The man looks at it with a smile.
MAN
You have been gathering my
correspondence. Letters from a
forgotten time.
LISHA
You’re saying that they’re...
MAN
Love is genuine. It etches itself
deeply, enabling you to recollect
what is truly significant.
Lisha’s hand shakes, the envelope trembles.
LISHA
Like what?
The man studies her, face solemn.
MAN
One day you shall recall, as I do,
the brilliance with which you
illuminated the world before fear
of the shadows took hold.
The man smiles as he walks to the nearest bookshelf and leans
against it. He glances up, looking in the area of the
security camera. Lisha follows his gaze. He smiles then turns
toward Lisha, their eyes lock once again.
MAN (CONT’D)
(softly)
Your beauty transcends my memory.
LISHA
What do you mean 'Your memory’?
MAN
When you are prepared to embrace
your heart the truth shall be
unveiled.
The man gives Lisha a warm smile as he vanishes. She watches
as the man’s body slowly fade away. The lights BUZZ back to
full brightness.
She looks around and quickly pushes her chair toward her desk
and sits. Her hands shake as she pulls up the video feed on
the computer.
Her mouth drops as she looks at her own terrified face
staring back. The man she encountered...not there. The aisle
where he stood...empty.
She pulls up the video feed from when she first saw him.
Nothing. Only her, alone, hands in motion, talking to no one.
INT. APARTMENT - LISHA’S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Lisha tosses and turns in her sleep as the sheets tangle
around her. The pale moonlight casts eerie shadows in the
room.
She wakes up suddenly, BREATHING hard. She pulls her knees up
to her chest and runs a shaky hand through her hair. She lays
back down, staring at the ceiling, eyes wide.
She reaches over to her phone. 3:28 AM. She SIGHS as she
stares out the window.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
16 -
Whispers of Sorrow
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - LATE AFTERNOON
Lisha stands at the counter helping two teens with their
library card. She glances up, Skylar and Jared are walking
toward her.
Skylar waits, bouncing on her toes, for Lisha to finish
before walking up to the counter.
SKYLAR
Hey, Lisha this is Jared. Jared, my
bestie Lisha.
Jared nods with a smile.
JARED
Nice to meet you.
Lisha forces a smile.
LISHA
Nice to meet you too.
SKYLAR
(whispers)
See, he made it past three dates.
Skylar winks as she smiles at Lisha before whisking Jared
away. Lisha’s smile fades as she turns to grab a book on the
counter.
LISHA
(bitter )
Must be nice.
Lisha SLAMS the book in the book cart next to the counter. A
woman glances up then turns away.
BOOK AISLE - CONTINUOUS
Lisha SIGHS heavily as she walks toward the back of the
library. She freezes. Skylar and Jared are locked in a heated
kiss against the shelves.
Jared runs a hand down her thigh as he slowly inches her
skirt up. Skylar with her eyes closed MOANS.
Lisha blushes. She quickly backs away, bumping into a cart as
she dashes into the next aisle. The RATTLE catches Jared’s
attention.
Lisha sits at her desk. She runs a hand through her hair as
Jared saunters by with a smirk. He waves and walks out the
door.
BACK ROOM - CONTINUOUS
Lisha finds Skylar shelving books as she HUMS. Lisha watches
for a moment with her arms folded across her chest.
LISHA
(cold)
If you and Jared crave your little
love fest, this isn’t the place.
Skylar spins toward Lisha. Her cheeks scarlet.
SKYLAR
I...I’m so sorry.
LISHA
(overlapping)
What if a patron saw you or a
child?
Skylar’s mouth drops as her eyes shift to the floor.
SKYLAR
(softly)
My bad. Won't happen again.
Promise.
Lisha glares at her before turning away. Skylar quickly turns
in the opposite direction.
LISHA’S DESK - LATER
Lisha goes to the door as she watches Skylar hurry to her
car. She slowly walks back to her desk, glancing around the
gloomy library.
At her desk, she arranges piles of papers. A faded envelope
catches her eye. She gingerly picks it up, carefully opening
it. The note is brittle with frayed edges.
NOTE
Your tears of sorrow whisper for a
love both pure and bright. Embrace
the dawn of new dreams, where love
shall bloom anew.
A tear falls on the note. She glances up, The tall man stands
across from her, leaning against a bookshelf. She CLEARS her
throat, hastily wipes away the tears.
LISHA
You returned.
The man looks at her intently, his jaw, tense.
MAN
(gently)
It is agonizing to behold your
tears.
She blushes, wiping her face with a tissue.
LISHA
It's nothing.
The man takes a deep BREATH as he walks toward Lisha, keeping
his eyes on her the whole time. He lays a gently hand on her
cheek.
MAN
In due course, your heart shall no
longer endure sorrow, and the tears
will come to a halt.
Lisha looks up into his hazel eyes as he slowly fades away.
She lays her hand on her cheek where he had touched her.
LISHA
(softly)
Who are you?
Lisha sits frozen in the quiet the library.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
17 -
Echoes of the Past
INT. APARTMENT - LISHA'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Lisha tosses and turns, her face damp. The faint sound of an
aged PIANO NOTE echoes...as it increases in volume. Lisha’s
breath quickens, her eyelids flutter.
BEGIN DREAM SEQUENCE - INT. SMALL COTTAGE 1920’S - DAY
The afternoon sun filters through lace curtains. A gentle
breeze softly ruffles them back and forth. Smoke drifts
through the air from a pipe tobacco. A YOUNG WOMAN (20s, with
Lisha’s likeness) plays THE FIVE FINGERS on an out of tune
piano. Her fingers hesitate...a wrong note. She EXHALES,
shoulders tense.
An OLDER MAN (50s, fatherly) sits smoking a pipe as he reads
the newspaper. Pipe smoke swirls around him as he glance at
her. He flicks his eyes to the YOUNG MAN (mid 20’s, good
looking with short dark hair) fidgeting in a wingback chair.
An OLDER WOMAN (50’s, pretty, graceful) sets a tea tray on
the coffee table. She takes a seat near the older man.
OLDER MAN
(chuckles)
You’re simply dazzling 'em, my
girl.
The young woman struggles to play.
YOUNG WOMAN
Yes Papa.
The older man takes a puff of his pipe. He turns toward the
young man, frowning as he follows the young man’s gaze.
OLDER MAN
My little gal's got some real
pizzazz. Best be careful.
The young man nods as he slyly glances at the young woman.
His fingers tightly close around a love note, edges frayed,
ink smudged.
YOUNG MAN
Yes, Sir.
INT. APARTMENT LISHA’S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Lisha jolts awake, GASPING. She SWALLOWS hard. The ghost of
piano music slowly fades. She lays back down, stares at the
ceiling, body trembling.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
18 -
Silent Struggles
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - AFTERNOON
Lisha sits at her desk, slumped, yawning every few seconds.
Dark circles frame her eyes as she blinks hard at the notepad
in front of her.
The door opens, she glances up to see Alex walk in with
Skylar. Their laughter cuts through the quiet library. Lisha
watches them as they get closer to the counter.
SKYLAR
See ya later.
Alex nods as he watches Skylar walk away before turning
toward Lisha with a smile. Lisha shifts her gaze from Skylar
to Alex as she slowly walks toward the counter with arms
crossed.
Alex looks at her, smile fading.
ALEX
You okay?
LISHA
(flat)
Yeah, just tired.
ALEX
Not sleeping or bad dreams?
LISHA
Why do you care?
Alex’s mouth snaps shut as he clenches his jaw. He nods to
the empty chair at her desk.
ALEX
Sit. I’ll grab you a coffee.
Lisha shakes her head.
LISHA
I really can’t handle another thing
that keeps me awake.
Alex nods and leans in.
ALEX
Whatever you’re going through...you
don’t have to face it alone.
Lisha shakes her head as she turns away. Her eyes drift to
the security camera.
LISHA
I’ll be fine.
ALEX
Okay. I’m not going anywhere not
matter how much push me away. You
know that right?
Lisha takes a deep BREATH, letting it out slowly. She gives
him a shaky smile.
Alex looks at her for a moment before turning away to walk
out the door. Lisha watches as he leaves.
Lisha sinks into her chair, shuffling papers to one side. An
earth-toned envelope lies underneath the pile. She picks it
up, pulls out the faded note, opens it.
NOTE
Love is the whisper of a cherished
dream, long lost in the shadows of
time. A dream that awaits to bloom
anew in your heart's embrace.
Her hands shake as she crumples it.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
19 -
Whispers in the Library
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - EVENING
Lisha walks around the empty library as her fingers lightly
trail over the spines of books. She rubs a hand through her
hair as she walks toward her desk. The lights dim, she hears
a light CREAK as she gets to her desk
She stops. Turns.
The tall man stands near a bookshelf, the dim light casts a
soft glow on his face. Lisha watches him as her BREATH
catches. She sits.
LISHA
Why are you here this time?
The man smiles as he takes a small step toward Lisha, leaning
against one of the bookshelves.
Lisha stares at him, paying more attention to his features:
(30, Italian American) thick dark hair swept to one side,
scruffy stubble on his upper lip, chin and sideburns, the
dimple in his cheek, his hazel eyes and bright smile.
MAN
Now that my heart has uncovered
yours, the distance will be an
agony too great to endure.
LISHA
It would help if you just spoke
plainly instead of in riddles.
What's your name, if I may ask.
She notices his casual yet old-fashioned style of clothes and
a red cord around his wrist instead of a watch, that catches
the light.
MAN
Please, refer to me as Jaspr.
LISHA
Okay, Jaspr. Who...what are you?
Jaspr takes a few steps toward Lisha. She quickly stands up
as she looks at him, eyes searching.
JASPR
I am a man who has endured a
lengthy wait and has ultimately
discovered what I have yearned for.
His eyes lock onto hers as he slowly walks toward her.
JASPR (CONT’D)
You sense it as well.
He gently takes her hands. Lisha stands frozen.
JASPR (CONT’D)
The past is not as distant as one
may perceive.
Lisha’s BREATH catches as she stands in silence.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
20 -
Hidden Emotions
INT. APARTMENT LIVING ROOM - EVENING
Skylar sits slumped on the sofa bundled up in a large blanket
with a box of tissues next to her and a trashcan on the floor
full of crumpled tissue. The lights are dim, the room quiet
with an occasional SNIFFLE or SNEEZE, then the RUSTLING of
tissue paper.
She SNEEZES as Lisha walks into the apartment, dropping her
bag by the door.
LISHA
(concerned)
You really don’t look so great. How
are you feeling?
Skylar BLOWS her nose and looks at Lisha with red rimmed
eyes.
SKYLAR
(hoarse)
Probably look like death while I
sneeze my brains out.
Lisha CHUCKLES as she walks to the bedroom to put her things
away then back into the living room.
LISHA
Is there something I can do for
you? Maybe tea? Soup? Or, you know,
more meds?
Skylar shakes her head.
SKYLAR
Nah. Just...company.
Lisha nods as she pulls up a chair. Skylar eyes her.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
You look cheery. What’s up?
Lisha shrugs, staring at the floor.
LISHA
Nothing. Just a nice day free from
rude patrons.
Skylar’s goes into a SNEEZING fit. She BLOWS her nose and
then SNIFFS loudly. She looks at Lisha through watery eyes.
SKYLAR
You ain't fooling me. That's a 'I
found someone face.
Lisha rolls her eyes at Skylar, her hands fidget.
LISHA
So, who exactly am I supposed to
‘find’ in a library of all places?
SKYLAR
I know that face.
Lisha EXHALES sharply as she bolts to her feet.
LISHA
Don’t know what face you’re seeing.
Seems that cold is messing with
your eyesight. Get some rest.
Lisha heads toward her room. Her lips tug into a faint smile
as the door CLICKS shut behind her.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
21 -
Rainy Reflections and Dreamy Whispers
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - MORNING
Lisha rushes to her desk, soaked from the rain. As she puts
her coat on the rack, she notices Alex, walking toward the
counter with a drink tray, equally drenched. He grins as
water drips off his face.
ALEX
Since I can’t get you to join me
for coffee, I thought I’d bring the
coffee to you.
Lisha gives him a wary look.
ALEX (CONT’D)
Here, it’s your favorite...Honey
Almond Milk Latte, large, extra
hot.
Before he could set her coffee on the counter, Skylar swoops
by and grabs it. Dark circles are under her eyes.
SKYLAR
(hoarse)
Man, I really need this.
Alex grabs her by the arm and snatches the coffee. Lisha
watches their interaction with a slight grin that quickly
fades.
ALEX
I suggest you call whoever you’re
dating this time and get your own.
Skylar makes a face and walks away with a GIGGLE that soon
turns into a COUGHING fit. Jasper materializes in a corner,
watching as Alex turns back to Lisha and hands her the
coffee.
LISHA
(softly)
Thank you. That was...very
thoughtful.
ALEX
Gotta love buy one get one free,
you know. Are you free for lunch?
Lisha shakes her head as her eyes drift to the door, the rain
coming down in sheets.
LISHA
I'm holding out hope for a class
field trip...if they even decide to
brave this weather.
Alex nods.
ALEX
I think its going to be like this
all day unfortunately.
LISHA
Yeah. Raincheck?
Alex nods again as he gives her a smile before turning to
walk out into the rain. Lisha peers at him as she takes a sip
of coffee. She turns, looks down the aisle then walks to her
desk.
The library remains quiet, a few patrons mill about as they
take shelter from the storm. The day passes in a montage:
LISHA shelving books, sitting at the computer typing up a
order form, helping a child find ‘I Believe I Can’.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - EVENING
Lisha stands at the door of the library looking out as the
wind pushes the rain on the glass. She locks the door and
walks to the break room closet.
She finds a blanket and wraps it around her shoulders. She
sinks onto a nearby sofa, kicking her shoes off, tucking her
legs underneath. She quickly dozes off.
The lights dim slightly before returning to normal. The wind
continues to HOWL. Jaspr materializes across from her with a
worn copy of ‘The Romantic’ by May Sinclair.
He quietly pulls up a chair, watching her as she sleeps. His
smile deepens as his eyes twinkle in the dim light.
DREAM SEQUENCE - INT. SMALL COTTAGE KITCHEN, 1920'S - DAY
A rustic kitchen, bathed in sunlight. The older woman (60’s)
wipes her hands on an apron. She begins chopping carrots and
celery. The rhythmic, metallic sound of the knife as it hits
the cutting board.
The young woman (20’s, Lisha’s likeness) bounces into the
kitchen and gives the older woman a kiss on the cheek. She
snatches a carrot stick, BITING into it loudly. The woman
smiles at her.
OLDER WOMAN
Say, is your fella swingin' by for
supper this evening? Or is he still
as jittery as a tomcat in a barn
dance?
The young woman blushes as she twirls the carrot then takes
another bite.
YOUNG WOMAN
Ma, you know he shows up every
Sunday. He claims he's got
something to say.
The woman stops chopping and turns. She looks at the young
woman then smiles before going back to her cooking.
OLDER WOMAN
Well, I dare say, whatever it may
be, your pops ain’t gonna like it
one bit.
The young woman nervously grips the carrot, SNAPPING it.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - MORNING
Lisha jerks upright on the sofa. She looks around the break
room, a snapped pencil lies in her hand. In a chair facing
her lies a worn copy of ‘The Romantic’ by May Sinclair.
Genres:
["Romance","Mystery","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
22 -
A Tenuous Invitation
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - SAME TIME
Alex walks in with a small bouquet of pink flowers. Skylar,
head down, writing on a note pad, glances up. She spots him,
rushes up to him, grinning wildly.
SKYLAR
Those for her?
Alex looks around the library.
ALEX
Yeah, but I don’t see her.
SKYLAR
She’s in the back.
Skylar walks off toward the back of the library. A few
minutes later, Lisha walks up, flustered.
LISHA
Skylar mentioned you were looking
for me.
Alex nods as he CLEARS his throat. He hands her the flowers.
ALEX
Picnic at the beach. Saturday.
Before you say no, you can’t.
Company thing. I’m expected to
bring someone.
Lisha folds her arms over her chest as she eyes Alex.
LISHA
So, I’m your... what, exactly?
Alex steps closer, voice low.
ALEX
You’re the person I want there.
LISHA
If I go...this isn’t a date.
ALEX
If you need to call it that, then
fine.
Lisha SIGHS, the snapped pencil still in her hands.
LISHA
No surprises, okay?
Skylar looms behind a shelf, watching, listening.
SKYLAR
(muttering)
Here we are again, same old
grind...
Alex offers the flowers. Lisha takes them as their fingers
brush. Their eyes lock in silence.
Genres:
["Romance","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
23 -
Mixed Signals at The Book Nook
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - TWO DAYS LATER
Lisha waits on patrons as she struggles to stay busy. Her
movements deliberate but distracted. She looks up, a delivery
man walks toward her with a bouquet of red and white roses.
Skylar also notices and rushes over to the counter with a
huge smile on her face. The man places the flowers on the
counter and leaves.
Skylar picks up the vase, searching for the note. Her face
lights up as she pulls the card out and turns toward Lisha.
SKYLAR
(playful)
I’ll meet you at Apple Blossom Bay.
Noon. Dress warm but comfy.
A.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
Damn, flowers again? Alex must be
shoutin' from the rooftops. So,
y'all finally dating, huh?
Lisha glowers as she looks at the flowers before walking to
her desk.
LISHA
(firm)
It’s not a date.
SKYLAR
Yeah, keep tellin’ yourself that.
Skylar takes the bouquet and card, placing them on Lisha’s
desk.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
He different now. Not the same Alex
from before. Cut him some slack,
yeah?
Skylar turns to help a patron at the counter. Lisha frowns as
she picks up the bouquet and card.
JASPR (V.O.)
Roses—striking in their beauty yet
ephemeral. Much like the essence of
courage.
Lisha snaps her head, she looks around the library. Nothing.
She throws the flowers in the trash then change her mind as
she sets them next to the others on a back table.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
24 -
Romantic Tensions and Denials
EXT. APPLE BLOSSOM BAY- MONTAGE
Lisha watches the waves as she chats with the female next to
her. She glances over at Alex who is talking and laughing
with co-workers. He casually glances over to Lisha, their
eyes meet. He smiles.
At the bar b que, Alex hands her a plate, their fingers
touch. She LAUGHS loudly, then quiets, eyes drop to the
ground.
Lisha and Alex play beach volleyball with his co-workers.
Lisha spikes the ball. Alex pretends to swoon. The other
women LAUGH as Lisha rolls her eyes, grinning. The men tease
Alex.
Alex, with his hands in his pockets and Lisha with her arms
folded across her chest stand looking out at the ocean. He
bumps her shoulder as they watch the sunset in silence.
Lisha and Alex walk across the beach in the moonlight in low
conversation. She stops to look at the ocean. Alex walks up
to her and gives her a gentle kiss on the cheek.
Lisha turns, sprints back to the group, Alex jogs after her.
Alex takes off then returns with a large blanket. He wraps
the blanket around Lisha before wrapping the other end around
his shoulders.
Lisha and Alex sit listening to a young man strum his guitar.
He watches her with a smile as his thumb traces circles in
her palm.
At her car, Alex lightly strokes her face as their eyes lock.
He leans in, his lips graze hers. He pulls away, her eyes
search his.
ALEX
(whisper)
Tomorrow?
Lisha slowly nods as she gets in the car and drives off. She
SIGHS as she glances in the rearview. Alex stands frozen,
watching.
INT. APARTMENT LIVING ROOM - TWO DAYS LATER
Lisha sits back against the sofa, eyes closed listening to
smooth jazz playing on the television. Skylar walks in with a
handful of packages. She walks to her room, returns a moment
later, plopping down in a chair.
SKYLAR
Sooo, how'd the dates go with Alex?
LISHA
They weren’t dates.
Skylar LAUGHS.
SKYLAR
Sure.
Skylar shifts in her seat as she leans toward Lisha. Lisha
EXHALES as her eyes snap open.
LISHA
How's it going with Jared? He seems
like a nice guy.
SKYLAR
Things are okay. But this ain't
about my life, it's about yours.
Lisha glances at Skylar.
LISHA
Actually, no, it’s not.
SKYLAR
I can tell he’s not over you, you
know.
Lisha turns her head and closes her eyes again.
LISHA
He’s a friend, nothing more.
Skylar LAUGHS before getting up and walking toward her room.
SKYLAR
Keep fooling yourself, I'll be here
when reality hits ya.
Genres:
["Romance","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
25 -
Tangled Emotions
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - NEXT DAY
Lisha sits at her desk filling out forms. Jaspr appears with
a single red rose and shyly walks toward Lisha. Lisha looks
up, she blushes as she takes the rose, brushing her thumb
over the velvety petal.
LISHA
Thank you. How did you manage this?
Jaspr stands back and smiles as he watches her put the rose
to her nose and SNIFFS it.
JASPR
With each passing day, I am infused
with vitality.
LISHA
What does that even mean?
Jaspr walks up to her and places his hand on her cheek as he
looks into her eyes. In a blink, his finger flickers,
translucent then solid. Lisha GASPS, eyes wide.
LISHA (CONT’D)
(stammers)
When...when you touch me... it
feels... warm, normal. How?
JASPR
Soon you will understand. Certain
truths require time to fully reveal
themselves.
She lays the rose down on the desk. She glances at the back
table where Alex’s bouquets sit. She SIGHS.
Jaspr follows her gaze then turns. He studies her face in
silence. Lisha stands with pinched lips, her jaw clenched
tightly.
INT. BEAN THERE COFFEE SHOP - NEXT DAY
Lisha and Alex sit inside a small cafe. Lisha sips on a large
coffee while Alex talks non stop. Lisha smiles softly as she
gazes at him.
LISHA
You always have this way of making
it seem so simple. Like everything
just... aligns perfectly.
Alex takes a finger, tracing circles on top of her hand.
Lisha pulls her hand away GIGGLING.
ALEX
It is...when it’s right.
Lisha studies him, her hand in her lap. She shrugs.
LISHA
I guess.
EXT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - LATER
Alex’s hand gently wraps around her waist as they walk
towards the library. Lisha tenses but doesn’t pull away. They
stand outside the library for a few moments. Alex places a
hand under Lisha’s chin, tilting it up as he kisses her
softly. She leans in...then she pulls back, abruptly.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - SAME TIME
Jaspr watches from the shadows. He squeezes his hand into
fists, knuckles turning white. His jaw clenches as Lisha
leans into Alex during their kiss.
JASPR
(under his breath)
This moment is fleeting. You are
not fated to be together.
Lisha enters the library, eyes downward. Jaspr watches in
silence, eyes blazing as he slowly vanishes.
Genres:
["Romance","Fantasy","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
26 -
Tension and Tenderness
INT. APARTMENT LIVING ROOM - EVENING
Skylar and Lisha sit across from each other playing a game of
Backgammon. Skylar shakes the dice and tosses them before
moving her pieces.
SKYLAR
Seems like you and Alex are getting
close. He looked...happy today.
Lisha rolls doubles and moves her piece across the board,
sending one of Skylar’s pieces back to home.
LISHA
It’s nothing major.
Skylar rolls her die but she can’t move.
SKYLAR
Nothing major you say. Then what’s
up with that kiss?
Lisha starts to throw her dice but freezes mid air, her eyes
narrow.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
I seen him kiss you. Friends don't
kiss that way.
LISHA
What’s it to you?
Skylar hesitates, then looks Lisha in the eyes.
SKYLAR
I get how it feels to see you hide
your pain and act like nothing
matters. I also know the pain of
loving someone who messed things
up. I see it in You.
Lisha drops the dice on the board and stands up.
LISHA
(hisses)
So, just… stop watching.
Skylar flinches. Lisha goes to her room, closing the door
behind her. Skylar clenches her jaw as she packs up the board
game.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - MONTAGE
Jaspr and Lisha sit talking in the back of the library.
Jaspr’s eyes twinkle as he looks at her. Lisha’s eyes
sparkle, her cheeks pink with a slight blush.
They walk through the library. Jaspr pulls out a book, all
smiles as Lisha shakes her head, playful. She turns, walks to
a different aisle, she freezes mid-reach. Jaspr reaches over,
grabs it. Lisha looks at him with smile.
Jaspr and Lisha slow dance. His arm gently wraps around her
as he holds her other hand. Lisha lays her head against his
chest, eyes closed with a smile on her face. A loud BANG. She
freezes. Jaspr whispers in her ear, she stills but remains on
edge.
Lisha and Jaspr sit in silence. Jaspr leans his head back on
the sofa while Lisha lays her head on his shoulder, eyes
closed. Their fingers are interlaced. She opens her eyes, she
stares at their hands, EXHALES, closes her eyes.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
27 -
Emotional Echoes
INT. APARTMENT LIVING ROOM - EVENING
Lisha sits on the sofa, laptop in her lap when Skylar walks
in.
SKYLAR
You’re home. Didn't think I'd see
you after all those late nights.
Lisha continues to look at the computer, moving the mouse
around, the CLICKING of keys echoes in the silence.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
Last year, hangin' with Nick, I was
up all night tryin' not to look
desperate. Playin' it cool? That
crap's for the birds, wears you
down quick.
Lisha freezes. Her fingers hover over the keys. She EXHALES
as she closes the laptop.
LISHA
It's just... I'm lost in what I'm
feeling, you know?
Skylar sits down, leaning toward Lisha until their shoulders
touch.
SKYLAR
You ain't got to do this by
yourself. I got your back.
Lisha stares vacantly at the closed laptop.
LISHA
What if... what if I screw this up?
SKYLAR
We all mess up. Ain't no shame in
starting fresh.
Skylar puts her arm around Lisha as she lays her head on
Skylar’s shoulder.
INT. APARTMENT - LISHA’S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Lisha BREATHES deeply, her eyes dart back and forth.
BEGIN DREAM SEQUENCE - EXT. SMALL COTTAGE, 1920’S - AFTERNOON
The young woman (Lisha’s likeness) and the young man (Jaspr’s
likeness) sit awkwardly outside on a porch swing. The girl
holds her hands tightly. The young man nervously reaches over
toward her. His fingers pass through hers like smoke. She
GASPS. She looks up as an older woman appears with a tray of
lemonade. She hands the young woman the glass. The lemonade
is red like blood. The young woman drops the glass, watching
it fall and shatter in slow motion.
INT. APARTMENT - LISHA’S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS
Lisha trembles as she stares at the ceiling, the moon casting
eerie shadows on the walls. She flips to her side, looking at
the rose from Jaspr. A petal falls to the dresser, wilted.
She reaches out, lightly brushing a petal.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
28 -
Skating on Thin Ice
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - AFTERNOON
Alex walks in with Jared. Lisha looks up as the two men stand
at the counter talking quietly. She watches, curious, then
approaches the counter.
LISHA
Hey you two. What’s going on?
Jared gives her a huge smile as he reaches inside his pocket.
With a flick of his wrist he pulls out four tickets.
JARED
We are going to the new ice rink.
Tonight. No excuses.
Lisha’s eyes widen as she tries to grab the tickets. Jared
quickly pulls back, pocketing them like a magician.
LISHA
How? I heard they sold out, like
‘til next month.
JARED
I’ll never tell. How soon can you
and Skylar close shop?
Lisha glances over at her desk and in Skylar’s direction.
LISHA
Skylar can leave in about an hour.
As for me...
Lisha walks back to her desk to check her calendar. She walks
back to the counter after a moment.
LISHA (CONT’D)
I’ll meet you there around seven,
maybe a little later.
Jared nods as his eyes find Skylar.
JARED
I’ll let Skylar know. Oh and be
nice.
Jared tilts his head toward Alex before walking away. Lisha
rolls her eyes at him as Alex lingers at the counter.
ALEX
Leave your car here. I’ll pick you
up.
Lisha tenses. She begins to fidget as she glances at the
counter.
LISHA
(stutters)
That would... You don’t have to...
ALEX
(soft but firm)
Don’t worry, I want to.
Their eyes lock. Silence. Alex turns, walks away, leaving
Lisha with her mouth open. She SIGHS softly as she watches
him with a slight smile.
In the shadows, Jaspr watches the exchange with a glare that
could shoot daggers at Alex.
Lisha shivers. She rubs her hands along her arms.
INT. CHILL FACTOR ICE RINK - MONTAGE
Cheerful MUSIC plays in the background with the soft SCRAPE
of blades on the ice. VOICES mingled with LAUGHTER fill the
arena. Skylar and Lisha skate in sync around the rink TALKING
and LAUGHING while Jared and Alex skate behind them in deep
conversation.
SKYLAR
Ya know it’s true...you feel better
when he’s here. You look happy.
Lisha playfully shoves Skylar who dramatically acts like
she’s off balance.
LISHA
I’m...content and it’s not
because...
Jared rushes up behind Skylar and swoops her into a hug as
they spin around before they skate together. Lisha watches
and LAUGHS as Skylar begs Jared to stop. Alex comes up from
behind and skates in sync with Lisha as they talk, their
conversation quieter.
ALEX
You’re starting to overthink
things. I see it.
Lisha’s smile drops as she stares straight ahead. Alex takes
her hand, squeezing it.
LISHA
(sighs)
What if I'm... not what you imagine
or what you want me to be?
Alex opens his mouth to speak but Skylar breaks the moment by
calling them over to a table. Mugs of hot chocolate sit with
steam dancing along the top.
Alex and Lisha step off the ice. They walk hand in hand
toward the table where Skylar and Jared are sitting. Skylar
watches as Alex nuzzles Lisha’s neck as she playfully pushes
Alex away. Skylar smiles but it doesn’t reach her eyes.
Genres:
["Romance","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
29 -
Whispers of Dreams and Distant Hearts
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - TWO DAYS LATER
Rain pelts as gusts of winds rattle the windows. Lisha lays
curled up on the sofa asleep. Jaspr appears, covers her with
a blanket, his finger tracing the outline of her face. She
stirs, her eyes flutter open.
JASPR
(softly)
My slumbering angel awakes.
Lisha sits up, stretching. She wraps the blanket tighter
around her shoulders as she glances at him. Her eyes drift to
the open notebook on the table--a sketch of a small cottage
that looks familiar.
She picks up the notebook, frowning as she stares at it.
LISHA
(mumbles)
Why does this look so...familiar?
Jaspr takes the notebook, his finger lightly traces the
outline of the cottage. He leans back, silent, eyes closed.
Lisha looks at him, leans back against his shoulder.
INT. APARTMENT - LISHA'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Lisha, eyes closed, covers up to her neck. Her body shivers.
The far away sound of a door CREAKING...
BEGIN DREAM SEQUENCE - INT. SMALL COTTAGE - EVENING
Muffled conversation. The young woman (Lisha’s likeness) and
the older woman stand pressed against a door, straining to
hear the young woman’s father. The older woman gently pulls
her away from the door as she opens it.
OLDER MAN (O.S.)
She ain't quite primed yet.
The young man (Jaspr’s likeness) abruptly stands as the older
woman walks over to him, taking his hands into her own. She
smiles and nods approval. The young woman shyly steps into
the room as the young man turns, seeing no one else but her.
INT. APARTMENT - LISHA'S BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Lisha wakes up with a start. She pulls the covers around her,
knees to her chest. She stares at her hand in the dim
moonlight.
EXT. HOLIDAY FESTIVAL - MONTAGE
Carnival music and bright lights fill the air as Lisha and
Alex walk hand in hand along a crowded pathway.
The vendor hands Alex a large white stuffed bear with a red
ribbon on the top of its head. Alex dramatically presents it
to Lisha who LAUGHS. She grips it tightly.
Lisha and Alex stand off to the side listening to the
carolers. Alex turns toward Lisha, he looks at her for a
moment, leans in, they kiss. Lights twinkle around them as he
pulls her closer. She gently pulls away.
Genres:
["Romance","Mystery","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
30 -
Echoes of the Past
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - NEXT DAY
Warm lighting fills the library as the sun begins to set.
Lisha takes Jaspr by the hand as she leads him towards a nook
area in the back of the library. The sound of their FOOTSTEPS
are in sync as they walk along the oak floor.
Lisha abruptly stops, arms crossed as she looks up at him.
LISHA
We’ve spent a lot of time together
yet, I still don’t know you. Why
don’t talk about yourself?
Jaspr runs a hand through his thick dark hair. Her eyes drift
to the red cord bracelet as it catches the warm light. He
SIGHS heavily.
JASPR
I am from a different era... I have
traversed centuries...existing in
the shadows, Lisha. I have loved,
lost and repeated this lost over
and over. This...
He touches the red cord on his wrist, looks it then looks at
Lisha, searching her eyes.
JASPR (CONT’D)
This is all that remains from my
life after it was irrevocably
shattered.
LISHA
How long has it been since your
life... fell apart?
JASPR
No less than a century.
Lisha looks at Jaspr, skeptical.
LISHA
That’s just impossible. No one
lives that long.
JASPR
I exist in a state of limbo,
suspended between life and death.
It is difficult to articulate in
words.
Jaspr’s lips quirk. Distant, haunting, MUSIC begins to play.
A faint violin melody drifts in the air like smoke.
Lisha looks around the library searching for the source. She
turns toward Jaspr.
LISHA
Where’s it coming from?
Jaspr extends his hand. The MUSIC swells. Lisha continues to
look upward and around the library.
JASPR
Join me in dance.
Lisha takes his hand. The MUSIC, unmistakable as it swells,
filling the air with a waltz from a bygone era.
FLASHBACK - SMALL TOWN - MONTAGE
Jaspr (younger, in his teens) walks along the road. He tips
his hat to a teen girl, very pretty with long dark wavy hair.
She blushes behind a white gloved hand.
Jaspr sits in a bench. An ice cream in hand that is starting
to melt. The girl sits next to him. She slyly looks at him
with a smile as she steals a bit. He smiles and gazes at her
as if she’s the only soul on earth.
Jasper sits in a church pew. He continually glances toward
the girl. His mother glances over at Jaspr and SMACKS him in
the head. The girl giggles into her hymnbook.
Jaspr (older, late teens) and the girl (17) walk along a
river in quiet conversation. They stop at a tree, sit. Jaspr
lays his head in the girl’s lap as the girl runs her fingers
through his dark hair.
Lisha’s POV: The memories begin to blur past, her face
mirrors each emotion--happiness, longing, love, heartbreak.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - CONTINUOUS
Lisha’s eyes snap open and she begins to sway. Jaspr leads
Lisha to a sofa to sit. She holds her head with her hands as
she BREATHES shallowly, her body trembling. The echoes of
violin MUSIC slowly fade.
JASPR
(softly)
Are you alright?
Lisha closes her eyes.
LISHA
Just dizzy.
A bird lands on the outside window sill, SQUAWKING in the
night air then flies away.
LISHA (CONT’D)
That girl in your memory... her
laughter, it was like sunlight
cutting through the leaves.
Lisha opens her eyes and looks directly into Jaspr’s eyes.
LISHA (CONT’D)
Who was she?
Jaspr remains silent, solemn. He lightly traces his thumb
along the curve of Lisha’s wrist.
JASPR
She represented the initial note in
an everlasting melody.
Lisha studies him. The air between them thrums.
LISHA
And now?
Jaspr sits quietly, holding her hand. He gives her a sad
smile.
JASPR
At present, I embody the echo.
Lisha EXHALES. She searches his eyes. She leans against his
shoulder. The silence stretches between them.
Genres:
["Romance","Fantasy","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
31 -
Fleeting Affections
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - NEXT DAY
Alex walks up to the counter a few minutes after Skylar
leaves. He watches Lisha shuffle papers. He waits. A moment
later he CLEARS his throat.
ALEX
You’re working late.
LISHA
Alex? What are you doing here?
Lisha lays the stack of folders on the desk and walks toward
the counter. Alex reaches across to hold her hand, their
fingers entwine.
ALEX
I came to take you to dinner.
Someone has to make sure you eat.
He chuckles as his eyes light up. Lisha pulls away.
LISHA
I can’t. Not tonight.
ALEX
I’m willing to wait ‘til your done.
It’s important.
Lisha shakes her head.
LISHA
I’m going to be here for a bit.
Call you later?
Alex slowly nods and leans in toward Lisha to give her a kiss
before heading out the door. The CLICK of the door locking
echoes in the quiet library as Lisha looks at her reflection
in the glass door.
She turns, Jaspr materializes and leans against a bookshelf,
lips pressed together.
JASPR
He cherishes you yet nothing
substantial is destined to arise
from this. His affection mirrors
the gentle embrace of sunlight upon
morning dew, if only for a fleeting
moment.
Lisha walks toward Jaspr, tossing the keys on her desk.
LISHA
Sounds like someone’s jealous. And
you? How do you really love?
JASPR
As the moon cherishes the ebb and
flow of the tide.
Jaspr’s form flickers like a candle in the wind. Lisha
studies him.
LISHA
How long are you going to stay this
way?
His voice cuts through the silence of the library as he
fades.
JASPR (V.O.)
In due course, I shall return to
you in entirety.
Lisha stands alone in the silence. She wraps her arms around
herself, SIGHING heavily.
Genres:
["Romance","Fantasy","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
32 -
Dreams of Longing
INT. APARTMENT - LISHA'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Lisha squints at the book in her lap, the words shifting in
and out of focus. She closes the book with a SIGH and walks
through the apartment, lowering the lights.
She passes by Skylar’s room, door open-empty. Lisha makes her
way to her room, crawls under the covers and turns off the
lamp with a CLICK.
BEGIN DREAM SEQUENCE - MONTAGE
The sun shines on a clear shimmering lake. Jaspr (30) and the
young woman (late 20s, Lisha’s likeness) sit in a small
wooden rowboat. Jaspr rows the boat with ease to the middle
of the lake. The oars lightly dip into the smooth lake.
He sets the oars aside. He takes her left hand...placing a
silver ring with a circle of diamonds on her finger. The sun
casts a cascade of sparkling light on the woman’s face.
Jaspr holds her hand as he presses his lips to it. The woman
smiles, the sunlight causing the tears in her eyes to
sparkle.
The two walk arm in arm along a busy street. Her LAUGHTER
blends with the ambience of street CHATTER. Jaspr stops
suddenly and speaks with a gentleman who looks similar to him
but a few years older, his brother. The older gentleman grins
as he sneaks glances toward Lisha.
INT. APARTMENT - LISHA'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Lisha wakes up suddenly. The moonlight fades into darkness.
She touches her left hand, looking at her empty finger.
She throws the covers off, trudging into the kitchen. A glass
CLINKS. Skylar hears her and walks into the kitchen.
SKYLAR
You’re up early. You look kinda
washed out. You good?
Lisha leans on the counter, head in her hands, rubbing her
temples.
LISHA
Yeah, These dreams. It’s like I’m
watching someone else’s life.
Skylar moves toward Lisha, taking her arm and leading her
toward the sofa. She sits across from her, studying her face.
SKYLAR
What’s up with them?
Lisha hesitates, shakes her head.
LISHA
I can’t remember them once I wake
up. But when I do, I...I... have
this...empty, hollow feeling.
Skylar eyes implore her as she leans in.
SKYLAR
You might be worried about stuff...
or a person. Maybe your mind is
telling you something.
Skylar grins, mischievously.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
Or...maybe you just need to get
another smooch in.
Lisha shoots her look, Skylar ignores it, grin still
plastered on her face.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
I once dreamed I was a pink bird, a
flamingo. Minds are wild.
Lisha rolls her eyes, shaking her head.
LISHA
What if...what if this isn’t merely
a dream, but something else?
Skylar chuckles.
SKYLAR
Only a dream expert can help ya
with that. Good luck hunting one
down.
Lisha gets up, walks into her room. Skylar frowns as she
watches her.
Genres:
["Romance","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
33 -
Fateful Encounters
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - AFTERNOON
Lisha and Skylar finish cleaning up a conference room. Skylar
grabs several books and begins shelving them. Lisha picks up
several folders, they slip out, splattering the floor.
SKYLAR
What's up with you? You’ve been
zoned out all day. Got some secret
crush or what?
Lisha bends, picking up the folders. She shakes her head with
YAWN.
LISHA
Just tired.
She sits down, going through the folders. She pauses on a
familiar envelope. She sets the folder aside, staring at the
envelope before picking it up and pulling out the note, her
heart pounding.
NOTE (JASPR’S VOICE)
Numerous souls shall cross your
path, Lisha, yet your heart belongs
to another. You exist in a delicate
balance between realms—one radiant
with warmth, the other steeped in
shadows. Soon, fate will reveal the
deep joy that your heart has long
sought.
Lisha puts the note back in the envelope and places it inside
a desk drawer. She sits back with her arms across her chest.
She glances up to see Jared walk in. He waves and continues
walking towards the back.
She glances around the library then turns the computer on,
fingers hovering over the keys. She types Jasper. The screen
floods with gemstone galleries. She scrolls through page
after page of gemstone photos.
LISHA
(mumbles)
Well, that was a waste.
She looks up, watches as Jared walks out the door. She
returns to the computer, typing the name Jasper-person.
She scrolls through images, old portraits, and articles of
people with that name. Lisha freezes on an old black and
white photo...JASPR JAXSON, 1902.
Her face pales, eyes widen. Her hands tremble. She stares at
the photo as the photo of Jaspr stares back at her.
Her eyes blur...
FLASHBACK - BEDROOM - NIGHT
The pretty young woman (Lisha’s likeness) sits in front of a
large mirror brushing out her hair with an ornate brush. She
sets the brush down, raises her left hand. She smiles as she
admires the silver ring with an old European cut diamond
surrounded by smaller diamonds that twinkle in the
candlelight.
YOUNG WOMAN
(softly)
Soon.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - CONTINUOUS
A book drops to the ground with a BANG causing Lisha to jump.
Skylar walks to the desk, arms full of books.
SKYLAR
You good? There's a weird look on
your face.
Lisha nods, blinking to focus her eyes. She quickly minimizes
the page as she looks up at Skylar.
LISHA
(lying)
You know, just doing some digging.
Lisha lays her shaking hands in her lap.
SKYLAR
So, we double dating this weekend?
LISHA
So it seems. Just behave okay.
Skylar LAUGHS as Lisha sits back. She watches as Skylar walks
away. Lisha glances around the library, pulls the photo up,
staring into jaspr’s eyes.
Lisha shakes her head, shuts the computer off.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - LATER
The setting sun casts deep shadows in the quiet library.
Skylar rushes out to meet Jared, the door CLICKING shut.
Lisha adjusts chairs for next day’s field trip.
The lights FLICKER. She turns. Jaspr stands near the table,
smiling as he eyes twinkle in the fading sunlight.
JASPR
Good evening, Ms. Robertson.
Lisha CHUCKLES as she walks closer to the table.
LISHA
Why so formal all of a sudden?
Jaspr watches her for a moment as Lisha continues to
straighten up the area.
LISHA (CONT’D)
I wish I could stay and chat but...
She moves to leave. Jaspr gently catches her wrist. Lisha
trembles. She stops, faces him.
JASPR
I comprehend your fear. However,
fleeing will not alter what is
destined to occur.
Lisha pulls away.
LISHA
How would you know?
Jaspr steps in, closing the gap between them.
JASPR
I have awaited countless lifetimes
to reunite with you once more and
soon my being shall be complete.
Lisha looks at Jaspr as fragments of dreams flicker at the
edges of her memory...a porch swing, a boat on the lake, his
hand in hers. Lisha steps back, shaking her head.
LISHA
(quietly)
I need to go.
She freezes. The air HUMS heavily between them. She leaves.
Genres:
["Romance","Mystery","Supernatural"]
Ratings
Scene
34 -
A Promise Unfulfilled
INT. THE SAVORY CLAM BAR AND GRILL - EVENING
Lisha and Alex sit in a small booth, their hands entwined.
Lisha’s face glows softly in the candlelight. Alex nuzzles
Lisha’s neck, planting soft kisses. Her fingers tighten
around his. She tenses but doesn’t pull away or bring him
closer.
Lisha gently pushes him away as a waiter walks toward them,
clearing off the table.
ALEX
Stay with me tonight.
Lisha shaking her head.
LISHA
I—I just need a little more time,
you know? To really be sure...
Alex takes her hand and kisses it. He studies her face as his
thumb traces circles on her knuckles. He takes a deep BREATH.
ALEX
(softly)
I know it’s scary. I’ve spent two
years hating myself and missing
you. I...I just don’t want to lose
you again. I love you, always have.
Lisha’s eyes flicker...a flash of memory...a young woman
(Lisha) standing along the shore. Alex stands behind her,
holding her. She turns, looks into his eyes--the image
vanishes.
Alex lets go of her hand, leans back. He pulls out a small
black box, placing it in Lisha’s hand. Her eyes drift down as
she stares at the box.
ALEX (CONT’D)
This is my promise to you. I
promise to love you, and only you,
always.
Lisha slowly opens the box. Inside sits a silver Claddagh
ring with a tiny diamond sparkling in the center. Lisha
stares at the ring then looks up at Alex. Jaspr’s voice
echoes in her head.
JASPR (V.O.)
Your heart is not solely yours to
bestow.
She snaps the box shut, pushing it back toward Alex.
LISHA
I...I can’t accept this.
Alex lays his hands on top of Lisha’s.
ALEX
The ring is yours. I’ve been
holding onto it... for a while.
Lisha looks at Alex then back to the ring box. She SIGHS.
Genres:
["Romance","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
35 -
Dance of Shadows
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - NEXT DAY
Lisha stands at the door waiting for the last patron to
leave. Skylar walks up to her, purse in hand.
SKYLAR
Everything’s tidy back there 'cept
a few books. I’ll handle that in
the morning.
LISHA
It’s all good. Tell Jared I said
hi, okay?
SKYLAR
Sure thing. I can’t wait ‘til
Saturday. Glad you and Alex are
back on.
Lisha nods as she shoos Skylar out the door, locking it
behind her with a CLICK that echoes through the library.
She walks toward her desk, dropping, her keys on wood with a
loud CLATTER before heading toward the back of the library.
The song ‘April Showers by Al Jolson’ begins to swell. Lisha
freezes, looking around.
Jaspr appears and walks toward her. His hazel eyes lock on
hers as the lights begin to dim. Jaspr takes Lisha’s left
hand, drawing her close, one hand at her waist, the other
cradling hers. They sway as the MUSIC wraps around them.
JASPR
I have pledged to unveil more of
myself to you. My existence
was...irrevocably fragmented. The
grief endured...overwhelming,
insufferable.
Lisha’s breath quickens as she looks into his eyes.
Everything around her begins to blur. The lights dim further,
the library dissolves into a baren field.
JASPR (CONT’D)
(distant)
This is the manner in which I have
lived, traversing the delicate
thresholds of life and death for
over a century.
Genres:
["Romance","Fantasy","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
36 -
The Liminal Ritual
BEGIN DREAM SEQUENCE - EXT. FIELD - EVENING
Jaspr stands outside a small weather-beaten house. Tall weeds
surround the side of the house. The paint is chipped, faded.
On the upper level, a cracked window.
He glances up at the grey sky, dark clouds threaten rain. A
gust of wind blows his dark, unkempt hair around his face.
He surveys the area before slowly walking up to the door. He
hesitates, his raised hand hovers at the door. He KNOCKS. The
sound is hollow as it echoes inside the house.
INT. HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
A short CHINESE WOMAN, (early to mid 70’s, medium build, with
short grey hair, kind eyes) sits across from Jaspr, her gaze
piercing, her lips in a thin line.
She rises, pours a thick liquid, dark as oxblood, into a
small cup. Steam swirls around and above the cup.
She carries the cup, sets it on the table in front of her.
She sits, waiting. Jaspr watches the steam rise then switches
his gaze to her with swollen, red rimmed eyes, his unshaven
chin trembles.
CHINESE WOMAN
(soft, deliberate)
It is not known how long you stay
in shadow, no alive and no dead.
Jaspr SNIFFS, wiping his face with his sleeve. He slowly
nods. He licks his dry, cracked lips.
JASPR
(mumble, hoarse)
I find myself ensnared in this
liminal existence.
I...I’m willing to pay any price.
The woman searches his eyes. She nods as she reaches inside
her pocket and pulls out a red cord. It glows in the dim
light.
CHINESE WOMAN
First, give me your left hand, then
you drink.
Jaspr extends his hand, it trembles. The woman holds the red
cord above it. She closes her eyes, her lips move in silence.
Candles along the back table flicker and go out.
The woman’s face is shrouded in shadows. The cord hovers
above her hand. She pulls her hand back as the cord floats in
mid air, twisting, turning as it glows in the dim light.
Suddenly it wraps itself around Jaspr’s wrist, searing into
his skin. Jaspr grits his teeth, then GASPS. His face pales
as his eyes bulge. Tears spring from his eyes as the cord
winds around his wrist then disappears, leaving a red welt.
He BREATHES heavily.
The woman opens her eyes, watching carefully. She offers the
cup to Jaspr.
CHINESE WOMAN (CONT’D)
Drink.
His hands shake as he takes it. He drinks. He makes a
grimace, grits his teeth. He sets the cup down, CHOKING.
JASPR
(coughs)
What guarantees can I count on that
this will truly be a success and
not another curse?
The woman reaches out with her withered hand, holding his
wrist.
CHINESE WOMAN
This cord will only show itself
when you find your true mate and
her soul mirrors yours.
The woman lets go as the wind HOWLS. A distant CHIME,
haunting, echoes and fades. Jaspr’s vision blurs...
INT. APARTMENT - LISHA'S BEDROOM - NIGHT
Lisha wakes up suddenly. Her body, drenched in sweat, hair
matted against her scalp. The CHIME lingers, hollow, slowly
fading.
Her eyes dart around the dark room. She looks down at her
clothes strewn across the floor.
LISHA
(scared)
Oh God, what's happening to me?
Lisha gets up and paddles toward Skylar’s room. The door is
open, the bed unslept in. Lisha shuffles back to her room,
quickly dressing. She hurries out, the door closing with a
loud CLICK.
Genres:
["Romance","Fantasy","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
37 -
Secrets and Shadows
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - AFTERNOON
Lisha leaves Skylar with the last group of children from an
earlier field trip. She walks through the aisle shelving a
few books.
She holds the last book, placing it on the shelf when she
notices an envelope in its place. She hesitates, pulls it
out, replacing it with the book and walks back to her desk.
She carefully opens it.
FLASHBACK - BEDROOM - AFTERNOON
The distant sound of jazz music hangs in the air. The young
woman (23, Lisha’s likeness) sits on the bed. She presses a
faded envelope into a book. She smiles, giddy.
SKYLAR
Gotcha.
Lisha jumps, slamming the note face down as the music fades.
Empty coffee cups RATTLE and fall as Skylar grabs it before
Lisha can react.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
(mocking)
My heart leaps with joy... as I
reunite with you... as I reveal
more of my essence... and as my
love emerges in its entirety.
Skylar LAUGHS and raises an eyebrow as Lisha blushes. She
tries to snatch the note, but Skylar holds it back, studying
her.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
(teasing)
Nah, Alex ain't writin' no lovey
crap like this. Too soft.
LISHA
Like you would know.
Skylar’s smirk falters.
SKYLAR
Who made it? Old flame? Secret
lover?
Lisha rolls her eyes, turns on the computer, typing too fast.
LISHA
Came across it in a book. So just
drop it.
SKYLAR
It’s super cheesy.
Lisha stops typing, glares at Skylar.
LISHA
If it’s so cheesy, what gives you
the impression it’s even about me?
Lisha turns back to the computer, typing. Skylar leans in.
SKYLAR
So, dudes gotta flex hard just to
get noticed, even for the soft
stuff, huh?
Lisha’s fingers freeze. Skylar tosses the note onto the desk.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
Watch your own back, you hear?
Skylar gives Lisha a long look before walking away. Lisha
quickly hides the envelope and walks over to a group of
children, watching. She looks up as Alex walks through the
door.
Alex moves quietly, sneaking up behind her. Lisha spins,
colliding into him.
ALEX
(chuckles)
Your jumpy. But it is nice to see
you smile.
Lisha blushes, looking away.
LISHA
Children know how to tug at those
heartstrings.
His eyes soften as he looks at them, then back at her, Their
eyes lock. Lisha clears her throat.
LISHA (CONT’D)
What’s got you stopping by?
Alex reaches for her hand, his eyes searching hers.
ALEX
Dinner. Tonight. Just us. I want to
pull at those...heart strings.
Lisha takes a big breath as Alex brushes his thumb against
her knuckles.
LISHA
Alex, I...
Her eyes flick past him. Jaspr appears in the shadows,
watching. His jaw tightens as he watches Alex traces circles
on her hands.
LISHA (CONT’D)
Okay.
A huge smile crosses Alex’s face.
ALEX
Cool, I’ll pick you up around
seven.
Lisha shakes her head as she pulls her hand back.
LISHA
I’m going to be a bit late so just
say where and I’ll meet you.
Alex nods as his smile falters.
ALEX
Just got to do things your way.
He looks at her, eyes searching.
Lisha EXHALES sharply as she watches him walk out the door
before returning to her desk.
Jaspr stands grim-faced, his hand clutches an envelope,
crushing it as he dissolves into the shadows.
Genres:
["Romance","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
38 -
Promises and Choices
EXT. AMBIANCE RESTAURANT - EVENING
The moonlight casts light shadows across Alex’s face as he
stands by his car, scrolling through his phone. Lisha pulls
up behind him, tires CRUNCHING in the gravel. She parks,
steps out. He looks up, smiles as the light breeze ruffles
her hair.
ALEX
Hope in, there’s somewhere I want
to take you first.
Lisha hesitates then walks around to the passenger side. Alex
holds the door for her. She takes a breath as she gets in. He
closes the door behind her then slides into the driver’s
seat.
EXT. CELEBRATION OF BOOKS FESTIVAL - MONTAGE - MOMENTS LATER
Alex and Lisha walk along the rows of vendors. Lisha stops,
browsing at a rare collection of books, caressing the spine.
Alex watches her. His thumb absently rubs her finger. He
glances down. No ring.
They pause at a food vendor. They share a bucket of popcorn.
She laughs as Alex tosses a kernel, misses her mouth and gets
her nose instead. The warm pools of light, paint her face
gold.
Alex holds Lisha’s hand as they ride the Ferris Wheel. The
city lights unfurl below as a light breeze ruffles Lisha’s
hair. His thumb rubs against her finger again. She glances at
him with a smile, her grip tightens.
INT. AMBIANCE RESTAURANT - LATER
Alex and Lisha sit at a table waiting for their order.
Lisha’s face glows in the soft candlelight.
LISHA
It was really kind of you to take
me to the book fair. Thank you for
that.
Alex smiles and reaches for her hand. His eyes drift to her
naked ring finger.
ALEX
Just a reminder of what the
competition looks like.
She smiles as her hands drift to her lap. The waiter arrives
placing their order on the table, he leaves.
ALEX (CONT’D)
Still giving it time?
She looks Alex in the eyes. Her phone BUZZES.
SKYLAR (TEXT)
Out late. Don’t stay up for me.
Lisha flips the phone facedown.
LISHA
Some promises demand more time.
INT. APARTMENT LIVING ROOM - HOURS LATER
Lisha sits on the sofa checking her phone. The door opens and
Skylar bounces in.
LISHA
Well, look who decided to come
home. Where on earth have you been?
SKYLAR
Chillin’ with Matt. Said not to
stay up for me.
Skylar kicks her shows off, one knocks over a stack of books
from the festival. She grabs it, paddles toward her room,
tosses them. Lisha’s eyes follow Skylar.
LISHA
Matt? What happened to Jared?
Skylar returns, plops down on the other side of the sofa.
SKYLAR
Jared had to go out of town. I’m
just passing the time.
LISHA
Skylar, you know that’s not okay.
Skylar shrugs, rolling her eyes.
SKYLAR
Ain’t gonna lounge around moping.
Besides, we ain't tied down or
nothin' and he don’t need to know.
Lisha shifts her gaze to her bare hand, then back to Skylar.
LISHA
Some promises matter...even
unspoken ones.
Skylar rolls her eyes as she disappears into her room, closes
the door with a CLICK. Lisha picks up the book, absently
running her finger along its spine, her lips pressed
together.
Genres:
["Romance","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
39 -
Whispers of the Past
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - NEXT DAY
Lisha stands by the window, peering out at the street
traffic. She turns her face up, allowing the filtered, warm
sun to hit her face. She SIGHS and returns to setting up
chairs for a meeting.
She takes one last look around the conference, noticing an
envelope tucked under a chair. She walks over, picking it up.
She glances around, Skylar is engrossed in the computer.
Lisha sits down, carefully opens the envelope, pulling out
the note.
NOTE (V.O. JASPR’S VOICE)
I cherish the days we share and
eagerly await the moment when I
shall be wholly yours. Soon, my
beloved, soon.
Lisha smiles as she traces the writing with her finger. She
glances around again, quickly taking the note, sliding it
inside a book as she walks toward her desk. She sits down,
pulls the note out, sliding it in the manilla envelope with
the others.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - CONTINUOUS
The library is dim, quiet with the occasional sound of the
radiator kicking in. Lisha sits on the small sofa in the nook
area, Jaspr’s head rests in her lap, eyes closed. She slowly
runs her fingers through his thick, dark hair.
LISHA
(softly)
I feel like you’ve been in my
dreams, but... I can’t remember
them.
Jaspr remains quiet.
LISHA (CONT’D)
So, why did you decide to walk this
path?
Jaspr EXHALES, his eyes still closed.
JASPR
A fire erupted. Not one that
consumes wood, but incinerates the
flesh and memory. It... it
shattered my being, leaving
me...hollow.
Lisha’s fingers freeze in his hair, her breath hitches.
LISHA
(whisper)
What happened to you?
Jaspr eyes open as he lifts his right arm. He pulls up the
sleeve, revealing a jagged, discolored scar snaking up his
arm. Lisha SWALLOWS hard, face pales.
JASPR
(whisper)
I entered willingly for her, yet
the flames demanded more than I was
prepared to give.
He turns his head to face her.
JASPR (CONT’D)
(softly)
It seems as though it were merely
yesterday...It’s difficult to...For
now, I wish to savor your presence.
Lisha slowly nods. Silence.
Genres:
["Romance","Fantasy","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
40 -
Jealousy at The Strike Zone
INT. THE STRIKE ZONE - EVENING
Neon lights flicker overhead as the sound of ROLLING balls
and CRASHING pins fill the air. The CHATTER is loud, lively.
ANNOUNCEMENTS from a loud speaker of food orders pierces
through VOICES and LAUGHTER. Lisha and Alex bowl against
Skylar and Jared. Skylar spends her non bowling time all over
Jared, LAUGHING too loud at his jokes and nibbling his ear.
When she walks off the lane, she purposely brushes against
Alex as they walk by.
When he’s just about to throw his ball, Skylar WHISTLES and
WHOOPS loudly. Alex feigns indifference, as Lisha watches.
Her jaw tenses and her grip tightens on her soda cup. When
she bowls, she throws the ball hard, result...gutter.
Alex lays his hands on her shoulders, rubbing them. He leans
in, kisses her neck. She forces a smile but her body is rigid-
closed off.
Lisha steps up for her final frame. The ball ROLLS...Strike.
The group CHEERS. The smile doesn’t reach her eyes. She grabs
Skylar by the wrist
LISHA
Time for some real girl talk.
She drags Skylar toward the restrooms. Skylar turns back,
tossing a wink over her shoulder at Alex.
INT. RESTROOM - CONTINUOUS
Skylar stands in front of a mirror, powdering her face while
Lisha stands off to the side with her arms across her chest,
fingers gripping her arms.
LISHA
You’re really turning up the charm
tonight.
SKYLAR
(innocently)
Huh? Jared's a good lookin'...
Skylar opens a mascara, leans closer to the mirror as she
applies it on her lashes.
LISHA
(flat, cutting her off)
He’s not the one you’re practically
sitting on top of. Seriously, why
the desperate flirting with Alex?
You have a boyfriend.
Skylar pauses, opens the cap on the lip gloss, puts it on her
lips.
SKYLAR
Not sure what you’re saying.
LISHA
You know what I'm getting at, so
just cut the crap.
Skylar puts the lip gloss away, turns toward Lisha.
SKYLAR
(playful)
Ohhh. Alex. You’re wound up over
Alex.
LISHA
(seethes)
I’m wound up by the way your
acting. You’re being disrespectful,
not to just them, but to me.
Skylar looks at Lisha, eyes sharp.
SKYLAR
First time you actually care who’s
checking him out. That’s big
progress.
Lisha’s jaw tightens. Skylar glances at Lisha’s hand.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
If you care that much, why ain't
you wearing the ring he gave ya?
Lisha’s eyes widen. Skylar smirks.
LISHA
How do you know about the ring?
SKYLAR
A package came for ya so I left it
in your room. I saw the box on
nightstand.
LISHA
(voice drops)
So..you went through my stuff?
Skylar shrugs.
SKYLAR
Look. If you’re not wearing it, you
don’t really know. You gotta make
up your mind. He ain't sticking
around for you always.
Skylar gives Lisha a smirk. She saunters out, leaving Lisha
to stare at her reflection. Fists clenched, eyes glistening.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
41 -
Caught in the Rain
EXT. APARTMENT - LATER
A light rain PATTERS against the car roof. Alex turns the
engine off, a heavy silence. Lisha grips her hands tightly as
she stares out the window, her reflection blurred by
raindrops.
Alex turns to her, studying her tense profile.
ALEX
You’ve been quiet since we left.
Talk to me.
Lisha EXHALES, looking down at her clenched hands.
LISHA
Why do you allow Skylar to flirt
with you like that?
Alex rubs his neck, he takes a deep BREATH.
ALEX
That’s just how she is. Babe, it
don’t mean nothing. I don’t care
about her, I care about you.
Lisha faces him, muscles tense, her lips quiver.
LISHA
If it’s meaningless, why would you
even entertain it?
Alex leans closer.
ALEX
(voice low)
Maybe...I just need to know you’re
still with me....Lately, it feels
like you’re...halfway out the door.
Lisha SWALLOWS hard. She glances at the apartment entrance,
then back at him. Eyes searching, mouth pinched.
LISHA
Why should your doubts fall on me?
Alex reaches for her hand, but she pulls away, eyes
glistening. The rain drums louder on the car roof.
She shoves the door open, rushing into the rain. Alex bolts
after her catching her arm.
ALEX
Lisha. Babe. I’m sorry. I...I
didn’t mean that.
Alex SIGHS heavily.
ALEX (CONT’D)
I’m just scared, you know. I’m
scared of losing you again.
Lisha freezes. Her face wet from the rain mixed with tears.
Lisha pulls free and walks inside the apartment. Alex stands
in the pouring rain, his face wet with a mix of rain and
tears.
Genres:
["Romance","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
42 -
Unresolved Feelings
INT. APARTMENT LIVING ROOM - AFTERNOON
Alma sits across from Lisha, who sets a tray down on the
coffee table. She hands Alma a glass of tea, the steam
swirling between them.
ALMA
I had hoped you’d be out with Alex.
Lisha takes a sip of tea, settling back against the sofa. She
avoids Alma’s gaze.
LISHA
We... just, we didn’t go in the
end. Life had other plans, I guess.
Alma eyes her daughter, carefully. Her lips set in a thin
line.
ALMA
Is everything alright?
Lisha EXHALES, staring into her cup.
LISHA
We had a fight about Skylar, again.
Alma sets her glass down.
ALMA
What does Skylar have to do with
you and Alex?
Lisha gives a long SIGH. She stands abruptly, walks to
window, looking out.
LISHA
Mom, it’s like...Jared is a great
guy, perfect for Skylar. But when
we hang out, it’s like she’s
totally fixated on Alex.
Alma takes a sip of tea, sets her cup down with a CLINK.
ALMA
How do you feel about Alex?
Lisha silently heads toward her room. She returns, hands Alma
the ring box. She opens it. The diamond sparkles in the low
light.
ALMA (CONT’D)
What’s holding you back from
wearing it?
Lisha crosses her arms, silent. Alma closes the box, sets it
on the table in front of her.
ALMA (CONT’D)
It seems my question hasn't been
addressed yet.
Lisha shrugs.
LISHA
It’s just not that simple.
ALMA
What’s making it so complicated?
Lisha SIGHS as she takes a seat.
ALMA (CONT’D)
Mija, it’s clear he loves you and
he’s willing to make a commitment.
This is on you, not him.
Lisha stares at her hands as they fidget.
LISHA
It’s Jaspr....he’s different. When
it’s just the two of us, it’s
like...
ALMA
Like what?
Lisha runs a hand through her hair, chewing on her lip.
LISHA
I...I don't have it all sorted out
right now.
Alma studies her, pushing the box toward Lisha.
ALMA
Every time you pick up that ring
and put it back, you are sorting
it out.
Alma SIGHS heavily. Lisha picks up the box in silence. She
holds it, then slowly puts it in her pocket.
ALMA (CONT’D)
Whose heart are you holding onto,
Mija?
Alma studies Lisha. Lisha avoids meeting her eyes.
INT. BEAN THERE COFFEE SHOP - MORNING
The coffee shop is bustling with customers. A few sit a bar
tables, others CHAT in line as they wait to order. Lisha
stands off to the side waiting, her eyes glued to her phone.
The BARISTA slams a latte down.
BARISTA
Order for Lisha.
She jumps, grabs her drink. Chelsea walks in, she glances at
Lisha, hesitates, then walks toward her.
CHELSEA
Hi Lisha.
Lisha looks up, stopping in her tracks.
LISHA
HI.
CHELSEA
(rushes)
This is...awkward. Anyway, are you
free... tomorrow?
LISHA
Why?
Chelsea looks away as she begins to fidget.
CHELSEA
Please. Let’s just meet here
tomorrow around 9. I...I really
need to speak to you.
Lisha SIGHS and slowly nods her head. Chelsea nods with a
SIGH of relief.
CHELSEA (CONT’D)
Okay. Thanks. See you tomorrow
then.
Lisha watches her walk away and sit at a table near the
window. She glances at her phone, a photo of Alex and Skylar,
laughing. She closes the screen and shoves it in her pocket.
She heads toward the door, her reflection staring back with
jaws clenched. She bolts outside.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
43 -
Whispers of Time and Memory
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - EVENING
Lisha grabs the last of the books, shelving them
mechanically.
A moment later Jaspr appears. Lisha turns to face him as he
slowly walks up to her. She blushes, turns away.
Jaspr catches her by the hand, turning her around.
JASPR
You appear to be trembling.
LISHA
Just a little cold.
Jaspr smiles and leans closer to her.
JASPR
That is indeed a minor falsehood.
He gently wraps his arms around her as Lisha leans into him,
then quickly pulls sway.
LISHA
So, where exactly do you disappear
to when you slip away?
His smile fades as he drops his hand. He walks over to a book
shelf, arms crossed. He avoids her gaze.
JASPR
(quiet)
I meander through the passage of
time. The years turn into
indistinct memories.
Occasionally... I lose recollection
of the sensation of sunlight.
Lisha steps closer, their breath mingling. She runs a hand
through his hair and along his jawline.
LISHA
(softly)
Allow me to be your memory, if only
for a moment. I...I want to know
more about you.
Jaspr cups her face, thumb grazing her cheekbone. He closes
his eyes, leans in, their foreheads touch. The sound of
traffic and murmuring voices cut through the silent library.
EXT. BUSY STREET - MONTAGE
Jaspr (30) stands next to a building, back pressed to the
wall. Vehicles race by. His eyes dart feverishly across the
crowd...faces blur, voices muffled. No one notice him.
Jaspr spots a woman with long dark hair. His breath hitches.
He lunges, grabs her arm...she whirls, horrified. Jaspr lets
go, staggers back, hands raised in apology. She vanishes into
the crowd.
Jaspr sits on a park bench, watching people as they pass by
him. His gaze locks onto another dark-haired woman. He leans
forward, hope flaring...then sags as she fades out of sight.
On a train, a dark haired woman sits next to him. He glances
at her, face crumbling. He turns away, the window reflects
his hollow stare.
Images of Jaspr flicker in and out of focus. Streets,
bridges, crowded squares...always searching, always alone.
The montage accelerates into a dizzying whirl.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - CONTINUOUS
The images suddenly stop. Jaspr lowers his hand,
straightening up. Lisha looks at Jaspr, tears stream down her
face.
JASPR
A century of questing. Each visage,
each silhouette. Until your
arrival.
His thumb gently wipes her tears.
JASPR (CONT’D)
You are the sole individual with
whom I share this profound
connection in over a century.
LISHA
Why? Why did you decide to
embrace...this unhappiness?
Jaspr’s smile is sad. He gently strokes Lisha’s cheek.
JASPR
You have consistently been the
solution.
Genres:
["Romance","Fantasy","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
44 -
Unraveled Ties
INT. BEAN THERE COFFEE SHOP - NEXT DAY
Lisha hands shake as grips her coffee cup. Chelsea walks in,
looks around and spots Lisha. She walks over, slides into the
opposite chair, eyes red-rimmed.
CHELSEA
Thanks for meeting me.
Lisha gives Chelsea an icy glare.
LISHA
Just get to it.
Chelsea shifts in her chair then looks around before looking
directly at Lisha.
CHELSEA
I’m truly sorry about Ty. If I
could....
Lisha leans forward and glares at Chelsea.
LISHA
(sharp)
You don’t get to say his name.
Chelsea flinches. Her eyes glisten. She grabs a napkin, dabs
her eyes as she opens her purse, pulling out a small black
box.
She pushes the box toward Lisha. Lisha flips it open. The
ring glints...a beautiful marquise diamond solitaire ring
with intricate swirled leaves framing the diamond. Her breath
catches.
FLASHBACK - INT. ROBERTSON HOUSEHOLD - TWO AND HALF YEARS AGO
Ty bounces on his feet as he hands a black box to Alma and
Lisha. His eyes twinkle in the soft light. Alma opens it with
a GASP. Lisha looks at the ring then back at Ty. Huge smiles
all around, Alma’s eyes tear up.
TY
She’ll love it, right? The leaves--
like our first date in the
arboretum...
INT. BEAN THERE COFFEE SHOP - MOMENTS LATER
Lisha’s jaw tightens, she SWALLOWS hard.
LISHA
(whisper)
He loved you so much. He was going
to propose.
CHELSEA
(voice breaking)
He did. Even after...
Tears flow down Chelsea’s face like a fountain.
CHELSEA (CONT’D)
I told him I wasn’t ready. Then
Bryan walked out of the bedroom....
Lisha bolts to her feet, chair SCREECHES. A few customers
turn, looking in her direction.
CHELSEA (CONT’D)
Nothing happened.
LISHA
(angry)
You let him think....
CHELSEA
Ty saw him and thought I had. He
didn’t want to hear it. Just
punched Bryan and stormed out.
That’s...that’s the last time I saw
him. Either of them.
Lisha sits, wrapping her arms around herself.
LISHA
(bitter)
And now...my brother's gone. Was it
worth it? All for that faded high
school dream you just couldn't let
go of.
Chelsea crumples.
CHELSEA
I loved Ty. God, I loved him.
I didn’t mean for any of this to
happen.
Lisha grimaces. She looks at the ring, at Chelsea’s tear-
stained face. She slides it back.
LISHA
(icy)
Keep it. Bury it. I don’t care.
Lisha grabs her beg and stands up. Chelsea reaches out toward
her.
CHELSEA
Please, tell me how to fix this.
Lisha looks down her.
LISHA
Some things just can’t be fixed, no
matter how hard we try.
She pulls away, pushes the door open, hesitates, exits.
Chelsea collapses into sobs.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
45 -
Tides of Betrayal
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - EVENING
The fading sunlight casts shadows through out the library.
Skylar tiptoes into the lounge area, finding Lisha asleep on
the couch. She turns off the lamp, the room dims.
As she leaves, Jaspr appears, watching Skylar walk through
the library, turning everything off before exiting and
locking the door behind her with a CLICK.
He makes his way to the lounge area, pulls a chair close. He
studies Lisha’s tear-streaked face, his jaw clenches.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - NEXT DAY
Lisha forces a smile for patrons and shelves books with
robotic efficiency. When the last patron leaves, she sends
Skylar home.
Alone, she attacks a late delivery box, RIPPING it open,
grabbing the books and SLAMMING them on the table.
Jaspr appears, silently watching her as she pulls books out
with trembling hands. The books BANG on the desk. He steps
toward her, catching her wrist.
JASPR
Enough.
Lisha turns, her eyes...red, swollen with tears on the brink
of falling. Her lips quiver. She collapses into his arms,
burying her face in his chest, clinging to him for dear life.
Jaspr holds her tightly. His fingers tangling in her hair as
she SOBS.
JASPR (CONT’D)
(whispers)
Tell me. What event has caused such
heartache within you?
Lisha SNIFFS. She pulls away to wipe her face.
LISHA
(shaky)
I...I just don't get it. Why the
betrayal? How can anyone *choose*
to hurt someone else like that? How
do people even *begin* to throw
away love? Like it meant nothing.
Jaspr takes her by the hand, leading her toward the back of
the library. He stands in front of her, cupping her face,
thumbs brushing her tears.
JASPR
It is a personal decision; love is
not merely a switch, Lisha, but
rather resembles a tide. True love
experiences both ebbs and flows,
yet its endurance is determined by
how one navigates these
fluctuations.
She searches his eyes. Jaspr tilts her face up. He wipes
another tear away. He hesitates, then leans in...they kiss.
Slow, deep.
His hands slide down her back, pulling her closer. Her
fingers clutch his shirt, one arm snakes around his waist,
pulling him even closer.
Their kiss intensifies as he devours her mouth.
Silence. Just their ragged BREATHING, MOANING.
Then...
SKYLAR
I figured you were lying.
Lisha whips around, her face flushed, eyes blazing. Skylar
stands frozen, jaw and fists clenched.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
(bitter)
Look who's cheating now? Seems like
you’re just as broke as I am.
Lisha stares at Skylar.
LISHA
It’s not...
Skylar glares at Jaspr as she speaks.
SKYLAR
Save it. I left my phone. Good
thing too.
Lisha marches over, grabs Skylar’s arm, and hustles her out.
Skylar gives Lisha a hostile look before getting in her car.
The door SLAMS. When Lisha whirls back...Jaspr is gone.
Genres:
["Romance","Drama","Supernatural"]
Ratings
Scene
46 -
Unveiling Betrayal
INT. LA FUSION RESTAURANT - NEXT DAY
Lisha sits across from Alex, her fingers tremble slightly as
he holds her hand. The muscles on Alex’s face, tense. He
glances at Lisha, then turns toward the window.
A waiter comes by the table with a bottle of beer and a glass
of wine. Lisha’s hands shake as she takes a sip. Alex stares
at his beer, not touching it. He shifts his gaze back to the
window.
LISHA
(barely audible)
What’s going on Alex? You’ve been
staring out that window since I got
here.
He EXHALES, his thumb brushing over her knuckles. He faces
her.
ALEX
I’m sorry about what I said to you.
About..how I’ve been.
Lisha sits rigid, jaw tight. She pulls her hand back, folding
it across her chest.
LISHA
(bitter chuckle)
"Sorry" doesn’t mend the heart,
does it, Alex? It just covers the
hurt...like a bandage that doesn’t
quite stick.
Alex flinches. He leans forward, voice cracking, his eyes
glisten.
ALEX
I love you and I...I promised
myself I’d be honest with you.
Alex takes a deep BREATH. He holds his head down, avoiding
her eyes...
ALEX (CONT’D)
Two years ago...
The restaurant sounds fade into a low rumble, replaced by the
sudden sharp RINGING of a phone...
FLASHBACK - LISHA’S APARTMENT - TWO YEARS AGO
Lisha holds the phone to her ear. Her eyes crease as she
strains to hear Alex over the receiver.
ALEX (O.S.)
Sorry for having to cancel
tonight... just under the
weather....promise I’ll make it up
to you.... call you tomorrow,
okay?
Lisha’s smile falters. She takes out a pot, rummages through
the refrigerator. Lisha chops vegetables, cuts up chicken,
tosses everything in the pot. She waits for it to simmer on
the stove as she searches for a container. She packs the hot
soup, grabs crackers and heads out.
EXT. ALEX’S APARTMENT BUILDING - NIGHT
Rain PELTS the windshield as Lisha parks. She shivers as she
hurries inside, key jangling in her hand. The dark hallway is
silent except for the DRIP of a leaky pipe.
INT. ALEX'S APARTMENT - CONTINUOUS
She walks in, the apartment is dark. She makes her way to the
kitchen, placing the bag on the table. She looks around at
the beer cans scattered on the counter and a half eaten pizza
laying open. She frowns. Then freezes.
MOANING. GIGGLES. The CREAK of a bedframe.
Her BREATH catches as she creeps toward Alex’s bedroom. The
MOANING continues. The door is ajar. She slowly pushes it
open. Light spills in from the streetlamp outside, casting a
low glow. Her eyes slowly adjust to the dimly lit room.
Alex, on his back, eyes closed, lip parted. A WOMAN with long
hair arches above him, her skin glows in the dim light. She
bends toward him, their mouths meet, ravenous.
Lisha staggers back, eyes fill with tears. A floorboard
CREAKS. She runs out...the woman’s head snaps toward the
door....
Genres:
["Drama","Romance","Betrayal"]
Ratings
Scene
47 -
Betrayal at La Fusion
INT. LA FUSION RESTAURANT - CONTINUOUS
Lisha sits frozen, gripping the table edge. Her eyes darken,
face taut, pale.
ALEX
(pained)
I never meant for that to happen.
LISHA
(angry)
Who was it?
Alex pales, his chin trembles. He slowly shakes his head,
avoiding her gaze.
ALEX
(begs)
Lisha, please...
LISHA
(voice elevates)
Who...was...it?
Alex SWALLOWS hard. He looks out the window before slowly
turning to face Lisha but doesn’t look her in the eyes. He
hesitates.
ALEX
(quietly)
Skylar.
Lisha eyes widen. She stares at Alex, the color completely
draining from her face. Her voice breaks.
LISHA
You... you just laid there while I
walked in. You let me ‘see’ that.
And now you’re asking me to...
what? Let it go? Forgive you?
Lisha shakes with rage. She stands abruptly, chair SCRAPING.
The other diners glance over.
LISHA (CONT’D)
How could you both do this to me?
Lisha raises her voice, the tears fall. More diners glance in
their direction. Her body trembles violently. Alex stands up,
reaches out but quickly drops his hand.
ALEX
Please, don’t leave like this. I
know we can fix this.
She turns, storms out. Alex stares after. He sits, staring at
his reflection, fractured in the rain-streaked window.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
48 -
Betrayal and Solace
INT. APARTMENT - LISHA'S BEDROOM - LATER
Lisha grabs a suitcase throwing in clothes from her drawers
and closet. A framed photo of Alex sits on the dresser next
to the ring box. She hesitates, then flips it face down,
tosses the ring box in the drawer.
Her phone DINGS. A notification lights up.
ALEX (TEXT)
I know you’re hurting....
Her thumb hovers over the screen. A deep BREATH. Delete.
Her hands shake as she zips the suitcase. She rolls it out of
the room, stopping to pick up her computer bag. She presses
her palms to her eyes, steadying herself. She grabs her bags
and leaves... the door CLICKS shut behind her.
INT. ROBERTSON HOUSEHOLD - NIGHT
Alma fluffs the last pillow as she finishes setting up the
guest room. Lisha drags her suitcase inside. She hesitates
before rolling it in the closet...her movements slow,
weighted.
ALMA
Stay here as long as you need to,
Mija.
Lisha nods, tight lipped. She pulls Alma into a tight hug,
gripping the back of her shirt.
LISHA
(muffled)
Thanks mom. I’m going to lay down
for a bit.
Alma strokes her hair, then steps back, studying her
daughter’s hollow gaze. She nods, walks out the room, closing
the door softly behind her.
Lisha kicks her shoes off. She collapses onto the bed. Her
breath shaky, silent sobs wrack her body as she curls into
herself.
INT. ROBERTSON HOUSEHOLD - MONTAGE
Afternoon...Alma pulls up a chair next to Lisha’s bed. A tray
of soup sits untouched on the nightstand. Alma watches Lisha
stare blankly at the wall, fingers picking at the quilt.
Night...Lisha paces the room, pausing at the window. Her
reflection; disheveled, eyes red-rimmed, swollen. She sits on
the bed, picking up her phone. Two notifications from Skylar,
eight from Alex. She sets the phone face down, crawls back in
bed.
Morning...Alma enters with fresh linens. Lisha hasn’t moved
from the bed, the sheets tangled around her. Alma’s gaze
shifts to the night stand. Her dinner, left untouched.
Alma sets the linens on the dresser, pulls up a chair.
ALMA
Mija, I’m worried about you.
Lisha slowly nods her head but doesn’t make any effort to sit
up.
ALMA (CONT’D)
Skylar and Alex keep calling.
Lisha’s jaw clenches....then barely audible.
LISHA
What...what did you tell them?
ALMA
That you’re sick.
Alma slowly stands, reaching for the tray. Lisha’s hand darts
out...stops her. Their eyes lock.
LISHA
(quietly)
Skylar was with Alex that night.
Alma’s breath hitches. She sits, gathering Lisha into her
arms. Lisha’s body trembles, her sobbing, uncontrollable.
LISHA (CONT’D)
She knew, mom. She knew how
devasted I was and she said
nothing.
And now Chelsea says Ty...
Her fists knot in Alma’s sweater.
LISHA (CONT’D)
Who am I to think I'm different?
Alma stiffens. She pulls back, cupping Lisha’s face.
ALMA
What are you saying Meja? Did you
do something?
Lisha wipes her face roughly with her hands, avoiding Alma’s
eyes.
LISHA
Two nights before I came
here...Skylar walked in on Jaspr
kissing me.
Alma remains quiet. She stands abruptly. Paces to the
dresser, grips the edge.
ALMA
(measured)
Do you love Alex?
Lisha picks at a loose thread on the quilt. She SIGHS,
bringing her knees up to her chest.
LISHA
I loved him before...now...I...I
don't know.
Alma turns to face Lisha.
ALMA
I think you do. And this Jaspr, do
you love him?
Lisha’s voice cracks.
LISHA
Yo... No estoy seguro. Ya no sé
nada.
ALMA
El amor fingido es peor que el
odio.
Alma EXHALES, sits beside her. She takes Lisha’s hand.
ALMA (CONT’D)
Love is like a battlefield Meja.
It’s not easy. It’s a fight, full
of sacrifice, conflicts,
challenges. It takes effort. But it
can also be won.
Lisha leans forward, her head on Alma’s shoulder. A tear
drops onto their joined hands. The sound of a branch
SCRATCHING the window, perfectly timed with the clock TICKING
in the hallway.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
49 -
Unresolved Tensions
INT. ROBERTSON HOUSEHOLD - NEXT DAY
Lisha makes coffee, her movements sharp, deliberate. The
doorbell RINGS. She ignores it, pouring water in the coffee
pot, turns it on and walks to the door.
She opens it. Skylar stands, shoulders slightly hunched,
fingers fidgeting with the strap of her purse. The two stare
at each other in silence.
SKYLAR
Hey.
Lisha’s grip tightens on the door frame. She doesn’t move.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
I just...I wanted to chat.
Lisha folds her arms across her chest. Skylar’s eyes dart to
the floor.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
I’ll hang tight. No matter how
long.
Lisha SLAMS the door shut. The doorbell RINGS again. Lisha
stares at the coffee pot, steam rising. She walks over, pours
a cup. The doorbell RINGS again. She sets the cup down with a
HUFF.
She STOMPS toward the door, YANKING it open. Skylar hasn’t
moved. Lisha rolls her eyes.
LISHA
(cold)
Five minutes.
Lisha turns, grabs her coffee, strides to the sofa and sits.
Her body is rigid, arms crossed, a scowl on her face. Skylar
steps inside, closes the door gently. She sits on the edge of
the armchair across from Lisha. Knees pressed together.
SKYLAR
(quietly)
I’m worried ‘bout you. No one's
heard from ya. Alex is—
Lisha glares at Skylar.
LISHA
(cuts her off)
Alex is non of your business.
Skylar flinches, she drops her head. The coffee pot GURGLES
in the background. She looks up, chin trembling.
SKYLAR
He...he called me...said he told
ya...and that you’re..hurting.
Lisha remains silent as she looks out the window. Her jaw
clenches. She picks up the untouched coffee...then sets it
back down. The cup BANGS against the table.
LISHA
Funny. He never reached out to ‘me’
after ‘you’ two...
She cuts herself off, looks away. Skylar’s hands twist in her
lap.
SKYLAR
I...I had just split with Cliff,
and I...I didn’t go there for him.
I just...I didn’t wanna be by
myself.
Lisha LAUGHS bitterly, shaking her head.
LISHA
Please. All you had to do was come
home. You knew I was there. I’ve
always been there. So spare me the
excuses, Skylar.
Silence.
Skylar looks down at the floor. She SNIFFS, swipes her face
with a trembling hand. Lisha glares at her, lips pressed
together.
LISHA (CONT’D)
So, what about Matt? And Jared? And
who knows who else? Are they just
a quick fix from not wanting to be
by yourself too?
Skylar’s BREATH hitches. She quickly wipes her eyes.
SKYLAR
I never asked for this crap. Think
I ain't kicking myself? Every damn
time, I...
Lisha stands abruptly, glaring down at her.
LISHA
Save it. You don’t get to play the
victim.
Skylar stands too, voice breaking. She gives Lisha a glare of
her own.
SKYLAR
(quietly)
You ain't special. kissin’ some guy
'stead of being with Alex. What if
I ain't caught you? Gonna sleep
with him?
Lisha takes a step toward Skylar. Skylar steps back.
LISHA
(seethes)
A night with him? Or anyone?
(MORE)
LISHA (CONT’D)
I won't debase myself like that
And, at least I'm *not* throwing
myself at Jared... or Matt... or
whoever's bed you decide to grace
on a *whim*.
Skylar’s mouth drops as tears spill over. Lisha walks to the
window, her eyes heavy with tears. She SWALLOWS hard.
LISHA (CONT’D)
Do you love him?
SKYLAR
Who? Alex? Nah. I ain't into him.
LISHA
(quiet, flat)
It's just about using others to get
what you want, isn’t it?
Skylar doesn’t move.
SKYLAR
I’m so sorry. I didn’t want to mess
things up for you.
Lisha turns toward Skylar.
LISHA
Should have thought about that two
years ago. Your five minutes are
up.
Skylar walks toward the door, pauses, looks back at Lisha
then turns away. The door CLINKING shut behind her. Lisha’s
BREATH shudders. Outside, Skylar’s muffled SOBS fade.
Lisha sinks onto the sofa, fists clenched against her head.
The coffee steam curls, untouched.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
50 -
Whispers of the Past
INT. ROBERTSON HOUSEHOLD - EVENING
Lisha sits on the bed, staring at the computer on her lap. A
HOWLING wind RATTLES the windows. She glances up for a moment
then back at the computer.
ALMA (V.O.)
Love is a battlefield Meja...
battles can be won. Start there.
Lisha sits, opening the browser.
JASPR (V.O.)
A fire erupted...I went in for
her...
Lisha types, her fingers rapidly brush over the keyboard. The
glow of the monitor casts shadows on her face. Her hand
freezes over the keyboard.
She stares at the screen. A black-and-white of Jaspr Jaxson,
his smile frozen in time. The headline: Author Missing.
By BRENT ANDERSON
Jaspr Jaxson, a young romance
Author, was last seen at a benefit
Gala in his honor when a fire broke
out. Many perished including his
brother, Mr. Stephen Jaxson and his
fiancé Miss Lyssa Roberts. Jaxson’s
body has not been located. Friends
and family are concerned about his
whereabouts. Anyone with
information are asked to contact
the local police...
She grabs a notepad, her handwriting is jagged, rushed.
NOTE PAD (TEXT)
Jaspr Jaxson... last seen at gala.
Fire. Fiancée and brother dead.
Body missing. Year 1920.
Her pen digs into the paper. The date of the article stares
back at her. A century ago.
Her BREATH hitches. She looks up...Alma stands in the
doorway.
ALMA
I just want to make sure you're
okay after seeing Skylar earlier.
Lisha nods, forcing a smile.
LISHA
Thanks mom. Just trying to take
your advice.
Alma studies her daughter then gently closes the door. Lisha
stares at the black-and-white photo of Jaspr. The wind
continues to HOWL as the sun fades into night.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
51 -
Shadows of Unrequited Love
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - TWO DAYS LATER
A pile of unopened mail rests on the desk. Lisha sits, her
fingers hovering over the keyboard. Her gaze is distant, the
soft glow of the screen reflecting on her tired eyes.
Skylar lingers near the shelves, stealing glances at Lisha
but keeping her distance.
The door CREAKS open. Alex steps inside, hesitating at the
counter. Lisha freezes, fingers in mid-air. She looks up.
Their eyes lock.
LISHA
(cold)
Stand there a little longer and
I’ll have you removed for
trespassing.
Alex winces. His jaw tight. He takes a step back.
ALEX
You...wouldn’t...dare.
Lisha doesn’t blink. She reaches for her phone, her movements
intentional.
LISHA
Try me.
Alex EXHALES sharply, raising his hands. He backs away, turns
and leaves. The door CLICKS behind him.
Skylar’s mouth drops as she watches, wide-eyed, gripping a
book so tightly her knuckles whiten.
Across the room, Jaspr stands hidden in the shadow watching
the exchange between Alex and Lisha. He glances toward
Skylar, watching her. A faint SIGH escapes his lips before
melting into the shadows.
Silence.
Lisha stares at the door a moment longer. She abruptly grabs
her things and leaves without a word to Skylar.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - NEXT DAY
Lisha wipes down the last table, her motions mechanical. She
puts the cleaning supplies into the supply closet and heads
toward her desk.
On her way, she notices a familiar envelope laying on the
floor. She freezes. She bends down, slowly picks it up. Her
thumb traces the edge of the envelope.
Jaspr materializes, remaining in the shadows. He watches her
silently as she unfolds the note.
JASPR (V.O.)
My spirit suffers as I witness the
anguish of your heart, a pain you
do not deserve. I desire to
alleviate that anguish.
Her BREATH hitches. She folds the note, tucking it inside the
envelope.
LISHA
(quietly)
If only you could. Jaspr.
Jaspr walks toward Lisha, the dim light catching the sorrow
in his eyes. He stands across from her. Lisha doesn’t look at
him.
LISHA (CONT’D)
The sun’s still out. Aren’t you
afraid of being seen?
JASPR
Certain risks merit consideration.
Lisha LAUGHS bitterly. He studies her, then gestures to the
envelope.
JASPR (CONT’D)
Why does betrayal inflict greater
pain when it originates from those
we hold dear?
Lisha’s voice wavers, she stares straight ahead.
LISHA
We invite them in. Trust them. And
then... Then we come to see we
hardly knew them at all.
Jaspr’s gaze lingers on her.
JASPR
And how does that define you?
Lisha stiffens. Her BREATH hitches. She snatches her keys,
shoulders past him. Stops.
LISHA
I gave my whole heart to someone
who stabbed me in the back. Now I'm
head over heels for someone who's…
not even here. A ghost. Unrequited
love. Defined by what I *can't*
have.
She storms out of the library, the door SLAMS behind her.
Jaspr GASPS, his eyes wide. A soft smile crosses his lips.
LISHA (V.O.)
I'm head over heels for someone
who's… not even here. A ghost.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
52 -
Boundaries in the Rain
INT. APARTMENT LIVING ROOM - NIGHT.
Lisha stands by the window looking at the distorted street
below. Rain streaks the window, her silhouette fractured by
the droplets.
ALMA (V.O.)
Holding onto anger is like drinking
poison and waiting for the other
person to die.
Lisha’s fingers tighten around the curtain...
The key RATTLEs in the lock. Skylar steps inside, dripping
wet. The door CLICKs shut behind her. Lisha continues looking
out the window. A half-packed suitcase lies opens on the
sofa, clothes spilling out.
Skylar shrugs off her wet coat, hanging it on the coat rack.
SKYLAR
You forgot your key in the door.
Lisha finally faces her, cheeks hollow.
LISHA
Guess I've let go of more than I
realize.
Skylar SWALLOWS hard but doesn’t move.
SKYLAR
You comin' back?
Lisha EXHALES slowly. She glances at the open suitcase.
LISHA
Looks like you’re heading out.
Skylar remains silent. Lisha sits next to the suitcase, her
fingers brush over a crumpled blouse.
LISHA (CONT’D)
If I come back, we’re gonna need
some rules.
SKYLAR
Okay. I’m good for it.
LISHA
The first rule... back off. Who
I'm seeing—or *not* seeing, it's my
chaotic disaster. It's none of your
business.
Rule two...
Lisha looks at the clothes in the suitcase.
LISHA (CONT’D)
The second rule... hands off my
stuff. Just ask if you need
something.
Lisha looks up at Skylar, face stern.
LISHA (CONT’D)
Rule three.. ... Know when I need
breathing room. When I'm drowning,
don't push me under trying to save
me.
The silence breaks by the rain TAPPING hard against the
window. Skylar’s jaw clenches.
SKYLAR
You think I don’t see I messed up?
Alex was just...
LISHA
(icy)
Don’t.
Skylar timidly moves to a chair. She picks up a throw pillow,
running a thumb over the loose thread.
SKYLAR
(mutters)
I get you. I Missed you.
(MORE)
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
Missed your dumb sewing stuff on
the table.
Lisha turns back to the window. Her reflection wavers in the
rain.
LISHA
No more pretending we’re fine to
Mom.
Skylar flinches. Lisha grabs her coat, heads for the door.
She stops, looks back at Skylar, opens the door, walks out.
The door SHUTS. Skylar sits, clutching the throw pillow, her
eyes drift toward the open suitcase.
Genres:
["Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
53 -
Unearthed Shadows
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - TWO DAYS LATER
Lisha sits at a cluttered desk. She pulls the note pad from
her purse, then glances at the monitor in front of her. She
pulls up the website where she found Jaspr’s photo, her
fingers trembling as she writes down dates.
She flips through microfiche, the WHIR of the machine loud in
the quiet library. She freezes.
Her eyes lock onto a yellowed newspaper article:
The Daily Know How
Date: Wednesday, 22 December 1920
Headline: Famous Author Presumed
Dead By BRENT ANDERSON
Jaspr Jaxson, a famous romance
Author went missing after a fire
broke out at a Gala in his honor,
back in June. He is now presumed
dead. Efforts to locate him after
the devastating fire have proved
unsuccessful.
Jaxson's fiancé Miss Lyssa Roberts
and his brother Stephen Jaxson
perished in the blaze.
Authorities determined that the
cause of the fire was arson. Two
individuals have been arrested and
are now awaiting trial.
Lisha traces the grainy photo of Jaspr...his tuxedo, his
smile...a mirror of the man she kissed.
SKYLAR
Lisha? Hey? Are you alright?
Lisha jumps. Skylar stands nearby, arms crossed, studying
her.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
You look spooked.
Lisha forces a smile that does not reach her eyes. Her
knuckles white against the microfiche screen.
LISHA
It’s just... research
SKYLAR
For what? Spooky tales?
Lisha hesitates, then slides the article toward her. Skylar
steps closer, scans it. Her finger pauses on Jaspr’s photo.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
This looks like... is this the guy
you were with?
Lisha nods. Skylar EXHALES sharply, shaking her head. She
stares at the photo then looks at Lisha.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
Lish, ain’t no way. This is from
way back in... 1920.
LISHA
I know.
SKYLAR
What's he even? Real, or...?
LISHA
I...I have no clue.
Skylar leans in, voice dropping.
SKYLAR
When ya met... 'im?
LISHA
Months ago... when Alex started
showing up.
Skylar steps back, lips in a firm line.
SKYLAR
I won’t pry. I...I just wanna let
ya know the repair guy called about
the lights.
Skylar slides a note across the desk. Lisha doesn’t touch it.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
When was the last time you saw him?
LISHA
Does it even matter?
SKYLAR
Look, you ain't been the easiest to
deal with lately. You ain't
sleeping. Hardly eating. And now
you’re...
LISHA
What? Crazy?
Skylar meets her gaze, softer now.
SKYLAR
I ain't sayin' that.
Lisha looks away, eyelids half-open.
LISHA
Just go, Sky.
Skylar hesitates, then turns. At the door, she glances back.
SKYLAR
You'd let me know if you ain't
fine, right?
Lisha doesn’t answer. Skylar leaves.
Lisha stares at Jaspr’s photo. Her thumb brushes the page.
She abruptly shoves it aside, turning the machine off. The
dark screen reflecting her furrowed brow and pale face.
Genres:
["Drama","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
54 -
Storm of Secrets
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - NEXT DAY
The storm rages outside, the wind HOWLS like a beast. Lisha
slowly walks toward the door, staring at the sheets of rain
and ice with debris tossed in the air. The lights
FLICKER..once... twice... then die.
Silence. Just the sound of her BREATH.
She makes her way to the back room, creeping along the
bookshelves. The fuse box CLICKS uselessly with no success.
She closes the panel and makes her way to Skylar’s desk.
SKYLAR
Looks like we’re stuck here for a
bit.
Lisha turns. Skylar’s silhouette leans against the doorway,
cell phone glow painting her face blue.
LISHA
We could head out, but, there’s an
apocalypse outside.
SKYLAR
I'm okay just sitting tight. Jared
says the streets are flooded. So...
A silence. Lisha rubs her arms.
LISHA
It’s going to turn chilly. I should
find our coats.
Skylar nods, grabbing the keys. She heads to the door,
locking it with a CLICK that echoes in the silence. Lisha
heads to the back...freezes.
LISHA (CONT’D)
(sharp)
You shouldn’t be here.
JASPR
I endeavored to maintain my
distance; however, you persistently
draw me back in.
Skylar steps next to Lisha. She freezes, arms crossed.
SKYLAR
You. Who the heck ‘are’ ya? What
are ya?
Jaspr’s gaze flicks to Skylar, his eyes widen. They lock
eyes.
JASPR
(whisper)
Skyla.
Skylar steps back, shaken.
SKYLAR
Why...why you staring at me like
that? Who’s Skyla>
Lisha backs toward the break room, hands shaking as she yanks
coats from hooks. Jaspr follows, relentless. She turns toward
Skylar, handing her a coat. Lisha puts her coat on, wrapping
it tightly around her.
LISHA
Don’t pay attention to him. He’s
just...
Jaspr takes a step toward her grabbing her arm.
JASPR
True happiness arises from a heart
that embraces belief. It is
imperative that you observe....
He lifts his left arm, pulling his sleeve up to reveal a red
cord wrapped around his wrist, pulsing like a heartbeat.
Lisha’s eyes widen. She automatically glances at her own
wrist...an identical cord slowly materializes, thread by
thread, beat by beat.
Skylar’s mouth drops.
SKYLAR
What the hell...
LISHA
(scared)
What... what is this?
They stare at the cord as it continually materializes,
winding around Lisha’s wrist like a snake until it gleams in
the dull light, pulsing in time with Jaspr’s.
Jaspr’s voice drops.
JASPR
(pleading)
This... is the reason you find
yourself dreaming of her. Of ‘us’.
Skylar stares at the matching cords on Jaspr and Lisha’s
wrist. She watches as they pulse in sync. She lifts her own
wrist which remains bare.
Jasper holds her hand. He reaches for Skylar’s hand. Their
vision blurs:
FLASHBACK - GALA, MID 1920S - NIGHT
Music. Barely audible, rising in volume. Candlelight.
Lisha..no, LYSSA... dressed in a royal blue silk ball gown,
elbow length white satin gloves. Her hand rests on Jaspr’s
arm. He smiles, whispering in her ear.
JASPR (PAST)
You are the sole entity present in
this place.
A YOUNG MAN (STEPHEN JAXSON, 32) walks toward them. Holding
his arm is SKYLA RAE (Skylar’s likeness) in an emerald green
silk ball gown. Their LAUGHTER cuts through the MUSIC.
Stephen smiles and winks at Lyssa. Lyssa’s gaze lingers on
them, a flicker of unease...
Genres:
["Romance","Mystery","Supernatural"]
Ratings
Scene
55 -
Echoes of the Past
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - CONTINUOUS
Lisha staggers, clutching her wrist. Skylar grips her
shoulders, holding her steady.
SKYLAR
No way this is real.
Jaspr steps closer, his eyes dart between Skylar and Lisha.
He turns toward Lisha.
JASPR
You are aware.
LISHA
All I’m aware of is that I’m
scared.
A heavy silence. Outside, the wind continues to ROAR. The
rain beats against the roof and the windows.
Skylar steps toward Jaspr, keys JANGLING in her fist.
SKYLAR
Leave. Or I promise you...
Jaspr doesn’t move. He looks at Skylar. Their eyes lock
again. His gaze switches to Lisha. His hands grip Lisha’s and
Skylar’s. His eyes stay locked on Lisha.
JASPR
(softly)
You shall recall.
Moments pass. Jaspr’s hands fall to his sides. Skylar stands
rigid, her eyes wide. Lisha’s body trembles, her fingers
tremble against her lips.
LISHA
You...We...never married
because...I...I died?
Jaspr’s nod is slow, deliberate. A tear escapes before he can
stop it. Skylar SCOFFS, folding her arms across her chest as
her eyes narrow.
JASPR
(voice fraying)
Albert pulled me away...some
frustrating book deal. By the time
I returned...
His gaze flicks to the ceiling, jaw working. When he looks at
Lisha and Skylar again, his eyes are raw.
JASPR (CONT’D)
Stephen endeavored to rescue you
both.
He turns toward Skylar.
JASPR (CONT’D)
My brother intended to propose that
evening, revealing your engagement.
Skylar pales, her mouth drops. She shakes her head. Tears
stream down her face. Jaspr switches his gaze back to Lisha.
JASPR (CONT’D)
The flames... they advanced with
alarming swiftness.
Jaspr’s voice trembles. The silence in the library presses
in.
JASPR (CONT’D)
I embraced your form. Your ring had
melded into...I was unable to
comprehend how destiny could be so
merciless.
Tears spill from Jaspr’s eyes. He takes Lisha’s hand. The
warped ring gleams dully as he slides it onto her finger. He
holds her hand and reaches out to hold Skylar’s hand. Lisha’s
breath stops. She stares at the ring. Hers and Skylar’s eyes
cloud over.
FLASHBACK - MONTAGE
...A piano’s high note lingers. Lyssa’s fingers hover over
the keys. Jaspr watches from the doorway, smitten.
...Lyssa and Jaspr sit together. Their hands brush on a porch
swing. He exhales, lacing his fingers through hers.
...Her father’s suspicious glare across the dinner table.
Jaspr’s nervous LAUGH. Lyssa kicks him under the table.
...Jaspr, breathless, thrusts a book into her hands. Their
foreheads touch as they read.
...Lyssa and her mom listen to Jaspr and Lyssa’s dad talk
behind a closed door. Her mom smiles before confronting
Jaspr.
...A meadow. Jaspr on one knee. Lyssa’s hands fly to her
mouth.
...Jaspr lifts her chin, looking deep into her eyes. They
kiss.
...A ballroom. Lyssa’s silk glove grips Jaspr’s arm. Whispers
follow them: ‘The author and his muse’.
...Stephen’s shy smile as he and Skyla walk toward them.
...Jaspr pulled away by a man in a tailcoat. Stephen grabs
Lyssa and Skyla Rae...
...Smoke. SCREAMS. Stephen kisses Skyla’s forehead, then
takes both her hands in his, kisses them. He looks deeply in
her eyes, then vanishes into the crowd.
...Lyssa crawling, CHOKING. Skyla unconscious, blood
streaking her temple.
...A beam CRACKS. Lyssa’s SCREAM is swallowed by flames.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - CONTINUOUS
The screams blend with the raging storm. Lisha’s tears hit
the ring. Skylar faces Jaspr, tears streaming.
SKYLAR
Both of you ditched us. Now I get
why love ain't in my cards. Got
robbed of it right off the bat.
Jaspr shakes his head.
JASPR
(broken)
Sky...Stephen loved you more
profoundly than you may ever
comprehend. He eagerly anticipated
marrying you. That fire... should
never have occurred; it robbed you
of your happiness, and us of ours.
For that, I am truly sorry.
Skylar looks down at the floor.
SKYLAR
(bitter)
Yeah. But you're here, see? He
ain't...Why’s that?
JASPR
I... I do not know. I never saw him
again after he went back for you.
Skylar turns toward Lisha. Lisha watches the ring, red cord
and Jaspr fade away through blurry eyes.
LISHA’s eyes re-focus as she stares at the empty space where
Jaspr stood. Tears streak her cheeks. Her fingers brush her
wrist. Only a faint mark remains.
JASPR (V.O.)
Like my brother, we never got our
forever.
Lisha wraps her arms around herself, sinking to the floor,
SOBBING. Skylar’s face is ashen. Her body trembles as she
drops to the floor next to Lisha. Tears stream down her face
as she gathers Lisha in her arms.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance","Mystery"]
Ratings
Scene
56 -
Silent Reflections
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - TWO WEEKS LATER
Lisha stands near a bookshelf watching a group of children.
Skylar hands them book bags as they giggle and run off. The
last kid races out, leaving silence behind. Skylar turns
toward Lisha, studying her hollow gaze, while deep shadows
circle her own eyes.
SKYLAR
You good?
Lisha nods but remains quiet. Skylar walks over to her, sits.
Her face, solemn, her smile gone.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
You seen him again since that
night?
Lisha shakes her head. Flashes of burning embers reflect in
her eyes.
LISHA
No. The fire. The way he... looked
at me when the ring slipped onto my
finger. It felt like I was already
lost to him, again.
Skylar nods her head slowly. She hesitates, then touches her
arm.
SKYLAR
Just checkin’ if you good. I...I
get this ain't easy for you.
And...maybe he just needs a little
time now that you get it.
LISHA
Maybe...but what about you and
Jared? Are things alright? You
haven't seemed like yourself since
that night...
Skylar fidgets, her eyes cast to the floor.
LISHA (CONT’D)
I'm just worried, okay? You lost
just as much if not more.
Skylar looks up and gives Lisha a weak smile.
SKYLAR
We good. I can't tell him what I
know cuz he won't get it but....I
don't know....maybe he's my Stephen
and I just don't know it yet.
Skylar shifts in her seat, her arms clasped around her waist.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
Look, I...I ain't trying to get in
your business, but... I see Alex
cares for you, and Jaspr... I can
only wish for a love like that. Who
ever you pick, it's worth the
struggle.
Lisha looks down at her bare wrist and empty finger. She
looks up at Skylar.
LISHA
What if... what if I make the wrong
choice?
SKYLAR
If you're too scared to try, you'll
never find out.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
57 -
Echoes of the Past
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - NEXT DAY
Lisha has several books in her hand as walks through the
aisles shelving them with practiced ease. She pauses mid-
step, spotting A MAN... tall, dark haired (a resemblance of
Jaspr) intently studying the back cover of a book.
Her grip tightens on the books. She EXHALES.
LISHA
Do you need a hand finding
something?
The man turns. Lisha’s BREATH catches... amber eyes, thick
dark hair, a smile that softens his sharp features.
THE MAN
Yes, I'm searching for information
about the history of the 1920s,
preferably related to the local
area.
LISHA
Oh, um, they're... back there.
Lisha nervously walks toward a back aisle, the man follows
behind her. She stops, watches as the man runs his hand along
the spine of several books before selecting one and pulling
it out. He looks at her, his eyes twinkle as he smiles.
THE MAN
Perfect. Thank you.
LISHA
Oh, no thanks needed...really.
Uhm... What 1920s history are you
interested in?
The man turns toward Lisha as she catches herself staring at
him.
THE MAN
Back then there was a case of
arson. The entire northside of the
city was engulfed in flames.
Lisha’s pales. Her eyes reflect the flames in the ballroom,
Jaspr pulling up his sleeve, revealing burn scars on his arm.
She forces a smile.
LISHA
Hmm, I didn’t know that. It does
sound intriguing.
He studies her. She looks away, pretending to adjust a
crooked book.
THE MAN
You might be amazed at what can be
found in old records.
Lisha swallows hard.
LISHA
Well, if you ever find yourself
needing more... I'm here.
She retreats to the front desk, EXHALING sharply. Skylar sits
at the computer, arching a brow, watching, tracking. She
walks to Lisha’s desk, leaning in.
SKYLAR
Who’s the hotie rockin' that old-
school look or is it his
doppelgänger?
Lisha ignores her, pulling up the video feed.
LISHA
It’s no one to concern yourself
with.
Lisha watches as the man flips through a book, sets it down,
grabbing another. Lisha zooms in...his wrist. A faint red
mark. Her stomach lurches.
LISHA (CONT’D)
(quietly)
Oh my God, He really exists.
THE MAN
Excuse me?
Lisha jumps, SLAMMING the monitor off. She looks up, the man
stands at the counter with several books in front of him.
THE MAN (CONT’D)
I just need to take a look at
these.
Lisha gets up and nervously hands him the forms. She avoids
his eyes as he fills out name, number. Her BREATH catches at
the familiar handwriting.
LISHA
Do you want all of these?
The man nods. Lisha scans them, pausing at the last book, a
restricted archive.
LISHA (CONT’D)
I’m sorry but this book can’t be
checked out. It’s library use only.
THE MAN
I see. Guess there’s another reason
to come back.
Lisha’s cheeks burn. The man gathers the books, their fingers
brushing. Skylar glances up; watching with narrow eyes. The
two lock eyes as he walks by. Skylar’s mouth drops.
Lisha stares at the door, touching her wrist absently where a
red cord once burned. Skylar walks up, standing next to her.
SKYLAR
You feelin' what I'm feelin'?
LISHA
(softly)
I'm… not sure.
Genres:
["Romance","Mystery","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
58 -
Tension in the Book Nook
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - NEXT DAY
The man places several books on a cart, walks toward the back
of the library, pulls down several more.
Lisha watches from the corner of her eye. Her eyes flicker
with a memory.
LISHA (V.O.)
What if there’s ‘really’ no right?
ALMA (V.O.)
Then you fight for the right you
want.
She steels herself, steps forward. She clears her throat.
LISHA
Are you, um, finding what you need?
The man looks up at her with a huge smile.
THE MAN
Yes. Thank you so much.
The man stands up and extends his hand. Lisha hesitates, then
takes it...her palm, clammy.
THE MAN (CONT’D)
Jaspr Jaxson.
Lisha’s eyes widen, her mouth drops.
LISHA
Lish...Lisha Robertson.
Jaspr looks at Lisha, their eyes lock, their hands linger.
She pulls away, running a hand through her hair.
LISHA (CONT’D)
I...I should probably get back.
Jaspr nods. He watches Lisha scurry away. A smile plays on
his lips.
Lisha sits at her desk shaking, Skylar comes up to her,
glances at the back table where Jaspr sits, then back at
Lisha.
She pulls up a chair and sits next to Lisha.
SKYLAR
(whisper)
Man, he's got you all jittery.
Lisha’s body won’t stop shaking.
LISHA
(rushed whisper)
His name's Jasper. Jasper Jaxson.
He looks similar to him, sounds
similar to him. But it...
SKYLAR
(serious, whispers)
You really think he’s... him?
Lisha’s gaze drifts to Jaspr, now reading at a table and
taking notes. Lisha’s eyes lock on the red cord around his
wrist, the sunlight intensifying the color.
LISHA
(whisper)
Look at his wrist. What if ...what
if I’m just not brave enough for
this?
Skylar snorts.
SKYLAR
When did ya stop jumpin' right into
the fire?
Jaspr approaches the counter with several books.
JASPR
(gentle)
I’ll take these and return this
one.
Skylar watches as Lisha scans them, his hand brushes hers...
She freezes.
JASPR (CONT’D)
You appear to be trembling.
LISHA
(deflective)
Cold.
He leans in with a smirk, voice a murmur.
JASPR
You deceitful individual.
Skylar COUGHS. Lisha’s mouth drops. Jaspr straightens,
collecting his books.
JASPR (CONT’D)
Until we meet again... Ms.
Robertson.
He leaves. Lisha EXHALES shakily.
SKYLAR
(grinning)
Oh man, you’re in deep trouble.
Lisha sits, covers her face.
LISHA
Just...shut up.
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - NEXT DAY
Lisha clears a section for a group of children. Her gaze
lingers on the door...nervously waiting. She walks toward the
counter, as Alex enters.
ALEX
Hey.
She sets down a stack of papers with trembling hands,
avoiding his eyes.
LISHA
Hey.
Alex SWALLOWS hard.
ALEX
I...I miss you.... Can we meet for
dinner? Just...to talk.
Lisha finally looks at him. Her voice, a WHISPER, her eyes
narrow.
LISHA
Each time we ‘talk’, I’m left to
pick up the shattered pieces.
Alex looks away. Lisha runs a shaky hand through her hair.
She SIGHS.
LISHA (CONT’D)
Okay. Tell me when and where.
Alex takes a deep BREATH, nods.
Genres:
["Drama","Romance"]
Ratings
Scene
59 -
A Choice of Hearts
INT. THE BOOK NOOK LIBRARY - EVENING
Lisha walks through the library. She pauses at the table
Jaspr sat at the day before. She spots an envelope tucked
underneath.
She gets down on her hands and knees to pick it up. The
weight heavier than the ones she received in the past. She
opens it. A GASP escapes her lips. The handwriting...achingly
familiar.
NOTE (JASPR’S VOICE)
My heart dances with joy at our
long-awaited reunion. Join me at
the charming café near the sweet
shop, when the sun rests and the
moon smiles. Jaspr.
Skylar walks up, her eyes on the envelope.
SKYLAR
Saw Alex earlier. So, uh,
everything good?
Lisha’s hand shakes as she hands the envelope to Skylar.
Skylar pulls out the note, reads it, WHISTLING low.
SKYLAR (CONT’D)
Whoa. You think he’s your Jaspr?
Lisha nods slowly.
LISHA
(voice breaks)
It’s him. Somehow, he remembers
those little details...
Skylar studies her, then leans in, earnest.
SKYLAR
I said I wouldn't get involved,
but... my sis? Picked the steady
guy. Now she's living a life she
don't like. Alex is comfy, but
Jaspr? He's the one who really gets
you.
Lisha shakes her head as she puts her head in her hands.
LISHA
What if I mess this up entirely?
What if I end up losing them both?
Skylar gazes at the restaurant across the street before
turning back to Lisha. Their eyes lock. Skylar smiles.
SKYLAR
What if you pick right?
Skylar gets up, pushes the chair back. She glances at Lisha,
squeezes her shoulder before heading out the door.
Lisha takes a shuddering BREATH. The note trembles in her
grip. She leans back in her chair, staring at the ceiling in
the dark library.
ALMA (V.O.)
Battles can be won...Fight for what
you want...
SKYLAR (V.O.)
My sister picked the steady guy...
Alex is comfy....
ALMA (V.O.)
Who holds your heart, Meja?
Lisha stands, peering at the table where Jaspr sat. She turns
away, grabs her things and leaves, envelope still in hand.
Genres:
["Romance","Drama"]
Ratings
Scene
60 -
Ties That Bind
INT. LA FUSION RESTAURANT - EVENING
Lisha’s hands shake as she grabs the door knob. She slowly
steps inside, her BREATH shaky. Her eyes find Alex, already
waiting in a corner booth. He looks up...his tired eyes are
bright as he notices her.
She hesitates. The HOST approaches, Lisha waves him off with
a tight smile. Alex stands as she nears, but she doesn’t sit.
He sits, hands fidget in his lap.
ALEX
(softly)
I’m glad you came.
LISHA
(flat)
I said I would.
His smile falters. He sits with his shoulders slumped. She
notices the dark circles under his eyes and the way his hands
fidget.
ALEX
I miss you. Not just—us. ‘You.’ The
way you’d laugh at my stupid jokes.
How you’d bite your lip when you
concentrated...
Lisha SWALLOWS hard. She looks out the window. The sun is
beginning it’s decent.
LISHA
I can’t just let things slide, not
after everything with Skylar.
Alex’s face pales. He looks down, nods.
ALEX
You’re right. But I’m trying to be
better. For me. Not just to win you
back.
Lisha SIGHS, finally sliding into the booth across from him.
She reaches inside her purse...slowly...pulls out the black
box, setting it between them. He raises his head, dropping
his hands in his lap.
LISHA
I can't...I can’t hold onto this
anymore.
Alex stares at the box.His eyes glisten, his jaw clenches.
Silence.
HOST (O.S.)
Ms. Robertson? Your table’s ready.
Lisha stands. He reaches out then quickly retracts his hand.
ALEX
So there is someone else. Is
he...is he good to you?
Lisha pauses, but doesn’t turn around.
LISHA
He reminds me of someone I used to
know.
Tears pool in his eyes, his vision blurs. She’s gone.
BACK OF THE RESTAURANT - CONTINUOUS
The lighting shifts... warmer, intimate. Candles flicker. The
room is empty except for one booth near the back.
Lisha freezes.
He smiles...not just with his mouth, but with his eyes. Lisha
slowly walks toward the booth.
JASPR
You’re staring.
LISHA
(flustered)
Sorry. It’s just...your eyes.
They’re ...
Lisha slides into the booth across from Jaspr. Jaspr leans
in, eyes twinkling.
JASPR
Familiar?
Lisha’s cheeks blush. She looks up, searching his eyes.
LISHA
So, um, do you always dig into
arson cases before a first date?
Jaspr CHUCKLES. He swirls his wine, watching her over the rim
as he takes a sip.
JASPR
Exclusively for the captivating
individuals.
Lisha’s fingers brush her wrist...She looks down...a red cord
begins to twine itself into existence.
JASPR (CONT’D)
(softly)
You sense it as well, do you not?
Lisha’s eyes widen.
LISHA
(whisper)
...Jaspr?
Jaspr’s smile deepens. He reaches across the table, holding
her hand. His cord pulses wildly as Lisha’s cord slowly
materializes...a living entity, pulsing in sync with Jaspr’s.
JASPR
Faces may change, but this remains
true.
LISHA
But...how?
JASPR
(simply)
At last you called for me, and I
came.
Lisha’s eyes glisten.
LISHA
Did I dream of you?
Jaspr lifts her hand pressing a kiss to her wrist, right over
the cord against her skin.
JASPR
Not this time.
FADE OUT