Family Ties Forever!
03-10-2005, 05:11 AM
Elyse D' Arc
Scene I:
Livingroom: A group of women are in the livingroom including Elyse. Elyse is sitting on the couch.
Elyse: Do you have a list of all the councilmen that are in our corner and have come out against the construction of the high rise right?
Berniece: Right.
Elyse: And Phyllis you have a list of all those on the fence?
Phyllis: Right.
Elyse: Ok, I have the pizza parlors in the neighborhood. I say we eat. I'm starving.
They all agree. Elyse gets up from the couch and walks over to the table. One of the women walks over to where Elyse is.
Berniece: Elyse, this rezoning bill has to be stopped. If it passes all the recreational land in town will be turned into condominiums.
Phyllis: Do you have a copy of the bill?
Elyse: Oh well yeah here.
Elyse looks for the bill.
Elyse: One thing in our favor is that the opposition is incredibly disorganized. They're sloppy, unprepared, confused. Can't seem to find it. I know it's in my brown purse. No wait, I'll look upstairs. Just a minute.
Elyse goes upstairs.
Scene 2:
Kitchen: Alex, Mallory and Jennifer are at the kitchen table. Steven enters the kitchen through the backdoor.
Steven: Hey kids, where's your Mother?
Alex: In the livingroom.
Mallory: What's the occasion?
Steven: Kids, your father just won the Midwest Regional Murray award for outstanding PBS documentary.
They clap.
Mallory & Jennifer: Yay!
Steven takes the trophy out of a paper bag and sets it down.
Alex: Which documentary was this for Dad?
Steven: The last one for our wildlife series, the Egrets Regret.
Alex: I can't believe it, that documentary was so obviously biased so slanted. You did the whole thing from the Egret's point of view.
Steven: Alex, your views on this subject are well known. We got your letter down at the station. Personally I thought bleeding-heart bird lovers was a bit strong. Ok, be real quiet I want to surprise her.
Mallory: But Dad--
Steven: Shhh.
Scene 3:
Livingroom: Steven enters. All the women are present except for Elyse. Steven doesn't know that Elyse isn't in the livingroom and that the women are.
Steven: And now for the winner of the Murray award for outstanding locally produced Public Television documentary may I have the envelop please. The winner is Steven Keaton.
All the women look around.
Steven does a victory dance.
Steven: Is Elyse Keaton here?
Elyse is at the top of the landing upstairs.
Elyse: Steven.
Steven: Elyse, I won the Murray award for the Egret's Regret.
Elyse: (comes downstairs): Oh Steven that's wonderful! I know how hard you worked to get that.
Elyse hugs Steven.
Elyse: I'm so proud of you. I'm happy, I'm excited.
Berniece: Elyse.
Elyse: I'm coming.
Steven: I was hoping we could celebrate tonight.
Elyse: Oh I'm sorry sweetheart, I can't.
Steven: Any chance you'll be done anytime soon?
Elyse: Well, lets see, we have to write up a petition, coordinate the campusing teams, name the group leaders, and then make about twenty phone calls. I think soon is a little optimistic.
Steven: I think June's a little optimistic.
Elyse: Maybe we can celebrate tomorrow night.
Steven: Sure, it's no big deal. I just wanted some of your time. We've got the show on the air that's what counts, we can celebrate anytime.
Elyse: We will too.
They kiss. Elyse goes back to working.
Steven: Well, what's an award anyway?
Steven goes upstairs.
Scene 4:
Kitchen: Steven is on the phone. He sets bowls on the table. He sets down silverware.
Steven: That's right Gweedo. The table by the picture window at 6:30. Oh and Gweedo, it's a special occasion so a bottle of your best champagne. I won the Murray award. The Egret's Regret. I don't know, I thought we showed both sides. Ok, see you tonight.
Elyse enters.
Elyse: Good morning.
Steven hangs up the phone.
Elyse: Sorry you weren't awake when I came up last night.
Steven: That's ok.
They kiss.
Steven: What would you say if I told you I was able to wangle us the table by the window at Gweedos tonight at 6:30 for our Murray award celebration.
Elyse: Oh, I only have one problem with that. I can't make it.
Steven: That's a tough thing to over look.
Elyse: Well, I have a late meeting at work tonight. I have to do some drawings for a new building and we're bidding on the project tomorrow.
Steven: Let me call Gweedo right back and see if he can take us any later.
Steven picks up the phone and dials the number. Mallory and Jennifer enter the kitchen through the swinging door. Elyse sits down at the desk by the phone.
Jennifer: Mom, Mallory says I can't come with you and her tonight.
Elyse: Tonight? Where are we going?
Mallory: It's our first mother daughter Yoga class and she can't come.
Jennifer: Why not? She's a mother I'm a daughter, I say we're in business.
Mallory: You don't even know what Yoga is.
Jennifer: So what? I didn't know what sex was and I went to sex education class didn't I?
Mallory: Well, this is different.
Jennifer: I hope so, that was really boring.
Elyse: I don't know sweetheart, your Dad and I have plans.
Mallory: Mom, you promised.
Elyse: Let me talk to him.
Steven hangs up the phone.
Steven: Well, it took some doing, we're in at 7:30, we don't have the table by the window, but--
Elyse: Is there a chance we can do it any later?
Steven: Elyse, you kill me sometimes.
Elyse: I'm sorry sweetheart, I completely forgot about this Yoga class that the girls and I signed up for. It's at 7 tonight.
Mallory: And we can't miss the first class. They teach you how to breathe.
Steven: You already know how to breathe. Inhale, exhale, keep alternating you won't have any problem.
Jennifer goes over to Steven and grabs his arm.
Jennifer: Oh please Daddy. Can we go? Please? Can we? Can we? Please?
Steven smiles at Jennifer:
Steven: Oh, ok.
Jennifer: They love it when you beg.
Mallory smiles.
Steven: I'll call Gweedo. I'll try to change the reservation.
Steven picks up the phone and dials.
Alex enters the kitchen.
Alex: Mom there's a call for you on the other line.
Elyse: Oh, thank you honey.
Elyse gets up and leaves.
Steven: Gweedo, take it easy. I think we can discuss this as two intelligent adults. What I'm trying to tell you is that any table will do. Now come on, I don't mean any table, won't the cash register get in the way? Nevermind, I'll take it, see you at 9:15.
Steven hangs up the phone. Elyse enters the kitchen.
Elyse: I just got a call from Cathy Spearing, she needs to see me tonight.
Steven: Tonight? Our tonight?
Elyse: She's a member of my women's support group and we made a commitment to be available to one another.
Steven: We made a commitment too Elyse. Remember? People threw rice. You wore a white dress. Do the words for better or worse ring a bell?
Alex, Mallory and Jennifer are sitting at the table eating breakfast.
Alex: There about to have a fight.
Jennifer: Is it over Daddy's Murphy award?
Steven: It's not a Murphy award, it's a Murray, and we're not about to have a fight. I simply want to take your Mother out to dinner to celebrate and some conflicts have arisen with your Mother being over committed lately and we're trying to resolve it, that's all. Isn't that right dear?
Elyse: That's right sweetheart. Although your father has neglected to mention that all of this has happened during an unusually hectic period for me, but I'm sure he's mature enough to realize that although I'm doing everything humanly possible to be flexible, outside commitments must be fulfilled.
Jennifer: It's a fight.
A horn is heard.
Mallory: We got to get to school. Tell us who wins.
Alex, Mallory and Jennifer leave for school through the backdoor.
Elyse: I'm sorry sweetheart, but Cathy sounded really upset. She's afraid her husband's going to leave her for another woman.
Steven: What gives her that idea?
Elyse: He hasn't been home for dinner in eight months.
Steven: So maybe he's on a diet. Why didn't you tell her you were busy? That we had special plans. That you wanted to spend the night with your husband.
Elyse: Look, I don't think she should be alone tonight. She called me in her hour of need and I just don't feel I can turn my back on her.
Steven: When you put it like that, it's pretty tough to say no. Ok look, you do what you have to do. Go over there tonight. I'll make a special dinner here and we'll celebrate the minute you get home.
Elyse hugs Steven.
Elyse: Thank you sweetheart. You're terrific.
Elyse exits the kitchen through the swinging door. Steven looks at the phone and reluctantly walks over to it. He picks it up and dials.
Steven: Hey Gweedo.
Scene 5:
Steven & Elyse's bedroom: Steven is sitting in the dark next to the food he prepared. He looks at his watch. Elyse enters and turns on the light.
Steven: Good evening, or should I say good morning?
Elyse: I didn't realize it was so late. Things kind of got heavy with Cathy. Hope I didn't cause any problems.
Steven: No. The recipe specifically says allow Veil to sit for six hours before serving. Should be just about ready.
Steven looks at his watch. Elyse takes off her coat.
Elyse: I'm sorry. I just couldn't leave Cathy.
Steven: Well, are you home to stay now, or is it just a pit stop?
Elyse: Of course. Where would I be going now?
Elyse crosses the room and hangs up her coat in the closet.
Steven: I don't know. I'm sure someone's in trouble somewhere in the world. It's 8AM in London. Perhaps some English woman is completely out of tea.
Elyse: Look, I know I said I'd be home early, but tonight was an emergency.
Steven: It's always an emergency Elyse. It's not just tonight, I haven't spent twenty consecutive minutes with you all week.
Elyse: Ok, I know I've been spreading myself a little thin lately, but you know how I am once I make a commitment.
Steven sits down in a chair. Elyse goes into the restroom.
Elyse: I think you could be a little more flexible!
Steven: Oh I see. My fault. I'm not flexible enough. Maybe if I were an undocumented alien with an overbite,
Steven gets up from the chair.
Or if they we're planning on rezoning our bedroom. I might be able to get a little bit of your attention.
Elyse comes out from the restroom. She turns off the light. She's in a nightgown.
Elyse: Look, I'm not in the mood for a fight tonight.
Steven: Not in the mood to fight? Not in the mood? Wait, I'll put on the theme from Rocky.
Elyse: Why do we have to fight now?
Elyse turns down the bed.
Steven: Because, the odds are when you are in the mood, you won't be here.
Elyse: Steven, it just so happens to be a lot of demands put on me lately. I've got this big presentation at work that I have to prepare and it's put me under a lot of pressure and this rezoning thing came to a head and then Cathy called and I felt a little obligation to her. But hey if I've been neglecting my better half, well excuse me! I'm sorry I wasn't here to celebrate with you, but if you want to celebrate right now, hey I'm all for it. Get out the hats, get out the streamers, get out your Murray! Let's celebrate!
Elyse sits down on the bed.
Steven: Just the two of us? Won't that be a little lonely for you?
Elyse: What would you suggest?
Steven: I don't know. Lets call Amastey International they have a lot of guys with time on their hands. I'm sure they can round up a fun crowd for us.
Elyse: Steven, that's it.
Elyse gets up from the bed. She picks up a pillow and the blanket.
Elyse: I'm just exhausted. I'm going to sleep in the other room.
Steven: Oh no you don't!
Steven picks up a pillow and takes the blanket away from Elyse.
Steven: A lot of things might have changed, but it's always been the man's poorogative to sleep in the other room.
Elyse: Be my guest!
Steven: I will!
Steven leaves the room and Elyse lays down on the bed.
Steven pokes his head into the room and then walks in.
Steven: Elyse.
Elyse: Yes Steven?
Steven: You know that pack we have. Always resolve all our differences before we go to sleep? Never go to bed angry?
Elyse: Oh Steven.
Steven: Well, it's off.
Scene 6:
Livingroom: Elyse, Mallory and Jennifer are present.
Elyse: He'll be here any minute.
Jennifer: I don't get it Mom. Why do we have to leave because you and Daddy had a fight?
Elyse: You don't have to leave because we had a fight. You have to leave because we want to make up.
Jennifer: Daddy's going to be really upset when he finds out it's just going to be you and him tonight.
Elyse: You wanna bet?
Alex enters from the kitchen.
Alex: Table's all set Mom.
Elyse: Oh thank you love.
Alex: It's a funny way of being mad at someone isn't it? Making them a special dinner.
Jennifer is sitting on the couch.
Elyse: Well, see your Dad and I had a little misunderstanding last night. We both said some things that I hope he's sorry for and tonight we're just going to celebrate his award with a nice quiet evening at home.
Mallory: A nice quiet evening? Is that why you're wearing (sniffs) Ravish Me perfume?
Elyse: I said quiet not boring.
Steven enters from the kitchen.
Elyse: Hello Steven. Welcome home.
Steven: Hi Mal, Alex, hi Jenny.
Steven walks past Elyse without speaking to her. He just clears his throat as he walks by. Steven walks over to the stairs and starts to go up.
Elyse: Come on Steven. I think it's time we made up.
Steven: I might not be ready.
Elyse: Look, after our discussion last night. I was thinking. I was very tired and on edge and I'm sorry some things were said and I'd like to make it up to you with a special night just the two of us.
Steven: Just the two of us?
Jennifer is leaning up against the wall by the stairs.
Jennifer: I told Mom, you'd be mad.
Steven: Well, you weren't the only one who said some things last night. I'm sorry too.
Elyse: Does that mean your ready to make up?
Steven: Sure, what the Hell, I'm easy.
They kiss.
Mallory: He doesn't look mad.
Jennifer's sitting on the couch.
Jennifer: He's covering.
Steven: Well, I'm going to go up and slip into something irresistible.
Mallory: Stay out of my closet.
Steven goes upstairs.
Elyse: Ok, Alex you're going to take Jennifer to Chrissy's, Mallory to Susan's, and you're going to Peter's, and you're going to be back here at 9:30 right?
Alex has keys in his hands.
Alex: All right Mom.
Elyse: Have a good time.
Elyse kisses Jennifer on the cheek.
Jennifer gets up and Mallory, Alex, and Jennifer head toward the kitchen.
Alex: You have a good time Mom within bounds.
Jennifer gets her coat.
Jennifer: What are bounds?
Elyse light swats Jennifer on the bottom.
Alex, Mallory and Jennifer exit.
Elyse puts music on. The doorbell rings. Elyse goes and answers it.
Elyse: Phyllis.
Phyllis: Elyse, sorry to barge in like this but--
Several women come in.
Elyse: What are you doing here?
Phyllis: We just found out that the opposition is going to try to sneak through the zoning bill tomorrow. The only way to save it is to call all the councilmen tonight.
Elyse: Tonight? Why does it have to be tonight? We haven't much time. They scheduled a session for 9AM tomorrow morning.
Berniece: Oh you've got plans. I'm sorry I didn't even notice. Look at you, you're all dressed up and (sniffs) that's Ravish Me isn't it.
Elyse: Yes. Well, actually Steven and I had a special dinner planned.
Berniece: That's powerful stuff Elyse. I don't think you'll make it to dessert.
Elyse: Well, hey I'm really sorry that I can't help you, but this has been put off. Let me help you with this stuff.
Elyse carries a handful of stuff outside.
Steven: Elyse, which goes better with this jacket? The dark brown or the gray?
Steven comes downstairs wearing a shirt, tie, jacket, and underwear, but without pants on. He is holding two pairs of pants. He sees all the women and wonders where Elyse is. He puts the pants in front of him.
Steven: Is Elyse Keaton here?
Elyse comes back inside.
Elyse: Hi Steven.
Steven: Hi Elyse. What's going on?
Elyse: They moved up the rezoning vote on us. It's tomorrow.
Steven: So?
Elyse: So, it's important that we take action tonight.
Steven: Elyse, it's important we take action tonight.
Elyse: I know. See it's ok. Everything has been moved to Bernieces house and they're going to work there.
Berniece: We'll be out of here in a second.
Phyllis: If we can carry all this stuff.
Steven: I have complete confidence in you.
It starts pouring down rain, with thunder and lightening.
Berniece: It's really raining out there.
Steven: Come on! Don't be such a marshmallow! A little rain never hurt anyone. It's good for the crops.
Berniece: We're not carrying crops.
Steven: It's just a sun shower.
Elyse: Steven we can't send them out in rain like that.
Steven: You're right. Ladies there's an inflatable raft in the garage.
Elyse: Steven!
Steven: All right. All right. Ladies, stop. Wait stop. All right ladies, look I guess you can work here.
Steven: But, we'll be in your way.
Steven: I know.
Scene 7:
Dinning room: Steven and Elyse are sitting at the dinning room table.
Elyse: To Murray.
Steven: To you.
Elyse: To the three of us.
Berniece enters.
Berniece: Elyse? We can't find the environmental impact report that was done from 1981.
Elyse: Third drawer to the left, brown folder.
Berniece: We can't find the coffee either.
Elyse: Second cupboard to the right.
Berniece walks over to Steven and Elyse.
Berniece: Isn't this romantic?
Steven: It could be.
Berniece leaves.
Steven: Elyse, lets face it, this isn't working.
Elyse; Go on with what you were saying.
Steven: Not being able to spend time with you these past few days--
Berniece comes back in and walks over to where she came in before. She's carrying a lot of things in her hands. She's not able to get he door and looks over at Steven and Elyse. She smiles.
Steven: No, no trouble at all.
Steven gets up to open the door for Berniece.
Steven: Don't be silly. None, none. Go.
He goes and sits back down at the table by Elyse.
Steven: Look, the fight we had last night reminded me of how much you mean to me. It's made me understand that we have to take better care of us, of our relationship. Sometimes the world is too much with us and we forget the really essential things, but some things never change and no matter how much time goes by--
Berniece comes in.
Berniece (singing): We must remember this. A kiss is just a k---.
Steven and Elyse look at Berniece.
Berniece: Excuse me. I didn't mean to interrupt. It's just that we're two votes short of defeating the bill. Can you think of any other councilmen that might be swayed?
Elyse: Try Max Bloominthaw.
Berniece: Bloominthaw right. (singing): A sigh is just a sigh.
Berniece leaves.
Elyse: I'm sorry Steven.
Steven: All I'm trying to say is your very important to me. Last night alone is the guest room it felt so strange not having you next to me and I realize that it would be a terrible thing void if I suddenly found myself without--
Elyse: Ralph Jetlin.
Steven: No, not him.
Elyse: No, I think Ralph Jetlin could be talked into voting with us.
Steven: Elyse!
Elyse: I'm sorry Steven. I have to tell Berniece. I'll be right back.
Elyse gets up and goes to tell Berniece. Steven throws his napkin on the table and gets up and leaves. Elyse comes back in.
Elyse: Ok Steven now we're alone.
Elyse realizes Steven left.
Scene 8:
Livingroom: Steven enters from the front door soaking wet. Elyse is on the couch facing away from Steven.
Elyse: Hello.
Steven: Hello. Hello Berniece. Hello Phyllis.
Elyse: Stop it Steven. They're gone.
Steven: How'd the vote count go?
Elyse: I think we have enough to win. We'll know for sure tomorrow.
Elyse turns around and gets up. She sees that Steven is soaking wet.
Elyse: Steven, you're soaking wet!
Steven: I've been walking around since I left.
Elyse goes over to Steven.
Elyse: For three hours in the rain? My goodness.
Steven: I didn't say I enjoyed it.
Elyse: Well, come upstairs and change.
Steven: No.
Elyse: Steven, you're going to catch a cold.
Steven: Elyse, I have a few things to say to you Elyse and I'm not changing my clothes until I say them.
Elyse: You have every right to be angry.
Steven: I am angry. I'm just not sure if I'm angry at you, at me, or at condominiums. I'm confused. Part of me feels selfish and part of me feels neglected.
Steven sits down at the table by the front door.
Elyse: All of you looks wet and soggy. Won't you come up and change?
Steven gets up from the table.
Steven: I'm trying to explain something to you and to myself. Look all of the things which have been taking up your time these last few days have been wonderful. Your career, spending time with the kids, helping distraught women. Even though part of me wants you around the house here all the time. I love the fact that you're never here. That didn't come out right.
Elyse: I think I know what you mean.
Steven: I just can't help feeling that at some point during the last few days, you could have said no to someone besides me. It seems like you're just taking me for granted.
Elyse: It's because I'm taking you for granted.
Steven: So I was on the right track.
Elyse: Look, don't think I'm taking for granted the fact that you let me take you for granted.
Steven: If I understood that, would I be happy?
Elyse: Well, I meant it as a compliment. See, I was brought up to think of the husband as the be all end all of my existence. That the man should be the center of my life and that I should learn to live in his shadow and sublimate my ambitions to his and wait on him hand and foot. Satisfy his every need. Answer his every desire. Well you can see how ridiculous that is can't you?
No response
Elyse: Can't you Steven?
No response.
Elyse: Oh Steven.
Steven: Sorry, momentary lapse. Of course I don't want that.
Elyse: No, you'd hate it.
Steven: Well, maybe hate is too strong a word.
Elyse: Steven, it's been your support and encouragement that has allowed me to grow and become the woman I am. I don't know another man I could be fighting with right now.
Steven: I'm flattered.
Elyse: When things get hectic and I'm being pulled in all directions I find that I'm short changing you because I know you'll always be there for me.
Steven: I want to be there for you.
Elyse: But, I know I haven't been there for you. That I wasn't there to share your award because I was doing things. I know I have to learn to say no to other things so that there will be time for us. So for now on if it's between clean air and you, clean air has to go.
They kiss.
Steven: Don't do that Elyse. Clean air is important.
Elyse: All right, clean air stays. How about, I know, planned parenthood.
Steven: You can't give that up.
Elyse: Ok, I know, pets without partners.
Steven: There's one. That can go.
They start to go up the stairs. Elyse turns off the lights downstairs.
Steven: Although, I'd hate to think of all those lonely pets.
The End.
Scene I:
Livingroom: A group of women are in the livingroom including Elyse. Elyse is sitting on the couch.
Elyse: Do you have a list of all the councilmen that are in our corner and have come out against the construction of the high rise right?
Berniece: Right.
Elyse: And Phyllis you have a list of all those on the fence?
Phyllis: Right.
Elyse: Ok, I have the pizza parlors in the neighborhood. I say we eat. I'm starving.
They all agree. Elyse gets up from the couch and walks over to the table. One of the women walks over to where Elyse is.
Berniece: Elyse, this rezoning bill has to be stopped. If it passes all the recreational land in town will be turned into condominiums.
Phyllis: Do you have a copy of the bill?
Elyse: Oh well yeah here.
Elyse looks for the bill.
Elyse: One thing in our favor is that the opposition is incredibly disorganized. They're sloppy, unprepared, confused. Can't seem to find it. I know it's in my brown purse. No wait, I'll look upstairs. Just a minute.
Elyse goes upstairs.
Scene 2:
Kitchen: Alex, Mallory and Jennifer are at the kitchen table. Steven enters the kitchen through the backdoor.
Steven: Hey kids, where's your Mother?
Alex: In the livingroom.
Mallory: What's the occasion?
Steven: Kids, your father just won the Midwest Regional Murray award for outstanding PBS documentary.
They clap.
Mallory & Jennifer: Yay!
Steven takes the trophy out of a paper bag and sets it down.
Alex: Which documentary was this for Dad?
Steven: The last one for our wildlife series, the Egrets Regret.
Alex: I can't believe it, that documentary was so obviously biased so slanted. You did the whole thing from the Egret's point of view.
Steven: Alex, your views on this subject are well known. We got your letter down at the station. Personally I thought bleeding-heart bird lovers was a bit strong. Ok, be real quiet I want to surprise her.
Mallory: But Dad--
Steven: Shhh.
Scene 3:
Livingroom: Steven enters. All the women are present except for Elyse. Steven doesn't know that Elyse isn't in the livingroom and that the women are.
Steven: And now for the winner of the Murray award for outstanding locally produced Public Television documentary may I have the envelop please. The winner is Steven Keaton.
All the women look around.
Steven does a victory dance.
Steven: Is Elyse Keaton here?
Elyse is at the top of the landing upstairs.
Elyse: Steven.
Steven: Elyse, I won the Murray award for the Egret's Regret.
Elyse: (comes downstairs): Oh Steven that's wonderful! I know how hard you worked to get that.
Elyse hugs Steven.
Elyse: I'm so proud of you. I'm happy, I'm excited.
Berniece: Elyse.
Elyse: I'm coming.
Steven: I was hoping we could celebrate tonight.
Elyse: Oh I'm sorry sweetheart, I can't.
Steven: Any chance you'll be done anytime soon?
Elyse: Well, lets see, we have to write up a petition, coordinate the campusing teams, name the group leaders, and then make about twenty phone calls. I think soon is a little optimistic.
Steven: I think June's a little optimistic.
Elyse: Maybe we can celebrate tomorrow night.
Steven: Sure, it's no big deal. I just wanted some of your time. We've got the show on the air that's what counts, we can celebrate anytime.
Elyse: We will too.
They kiss. Elyse goes back to working.
Steven: Well, what's an award anyway?
Steven goes upstairs.
Scene 4:
Kitchen: Steven is on the phone. He sets bowls on the table. He sets down silverware.
Steven: That's right Gweedo. The table by the picture window at 6:30. Oh and Gweedo, it's a special occasion so a bottle of your best champagne. I won the Murray award. The Egret's Regret. I don't know, I thought we showed both sides. Ok, see you tonight.
Elyse enters.
Elyse: Good morning.
Steven hangs up the phone.
Elyse: Sorry you weren't awake when I came up last night.
Steven: That's ok.
They kiss.
Steven: What would you say if I told you I was able to wangle us the table by the window at Gweedos tonight at 6:30 for our Murray award celebration.
Elyse: Oh, I only have one problem with that. I can't make it.
Steven: That's a tough thing to over look.
Elyse: Well, I have a late meeting at work tonight. I have to do some drawings for a new building and we're bidding on the project tomorrow.
Steven: Let me call Gweedo right back and see if he can take us any later.
Steven picks up the phone and dials the number. Mallory and Jennifer enter the kitchen through the swinging door. Elyse sits down at the desk by the phone.
Jennifer: Mom, Mallory says I can't come with you and her tonight.
Elyse: Tonight? Where are we going?
Mallory: It's our first mother daughter Yoga class and she can't come.
Jennifer: Why not? She's a mother I'm a daughter, I say we're in business.
Mallory: You don't even know what Yoga is.
Jennifer: So what? I didn't know what sex was and I went to sex education class didn't I?
Mallory: Well, this is different.
Jennifer: I hope so, that was really boring.
Elyse: I don't know sweetheart, your Dad and I have plans.
Mallory: Mom, you promised.
Elyse: Let me talk to him.
Steven hangs up the phone.
Steven: Well, it took some doing, we're in at 7:30, we don't have the table by the window, but--
Elyse: Is there a chance we can do it any later?
Steven: Elyse, you kill me sometimes.
Elyse: I'm sorry sweetheart, I completely forgot about this Yoga class that the girls and I signed up for. It's at 7 tonight.
Mallory: And we can't miss the first class. They teach you how to breathe.
Steven: You already know how to breathe. Inhale, exhale, keep alternating you won't have any problem.
Jennifer goes over to Steven and grabs his arm.
Jennifer: Oh please Daddy. Can we go? Please? Can we? Can we? Please?
Steven smiles at Jennifer:
Steven: Oh, ok.
Jennifer: They love it when you beg.
Mallory smiles.
Steven: I'll call Gweedo. I'll try to change the reservation.
Steven picks up the phone and dials.
Alex enters the kitchen.
Alex: Mom there's a call for you on the other line.
Elyse: Oh, thank you honey.
Elyse gets up and leaves.
Steven: Gweedo, take it easy. I think we can discuss this as two intelligent adults. What I'm trying to tell you is that any table will do. Now come on, I don't mean any table, won't the cash register get in the way? Nevermind, I'll take it, see you at 9:15.
Steven hangs up the phone. Elyse enters the kitchen.
Elyse: I just got a call from Cathy Spearing, she needs to see me tonight.
Steven: Tonight? Our tonight?
Elyse: She's a member of my women's support group and we made a commitment to be available to one another.
Steven: We made a commitment too Elyse. Remember? People threw rice. You wore a white dress. Do the words for better or worse ring a bell?
Alex, Mallory and Jennifer are sitting at the table eating breakfast.
Alex: There about to have a fight.
Jennifer: Is it over Daddy's Murphy award?
Steven: It's not a Murphy award, it's a Murray, and we're not about to have a fight. I simply want to take your Mother out to dinner to celebrate and some conflicts have arisen with your Mother being over committed lately and we're trying to resolve it, that's all. Isn't that right dear?
Elyse: That's right sweetheart. Although your father has neglected to mention that all of this has happened during an unusually hectic period for me, but I'm sure he's mature enough to realize that although I'm doing everything humanly possible to be flexible, outside commitments must be fulfilled.
Jennifer: It's a fight.
A horn is heard.
Mallory: We got to get to school. Tell us who wins.
Alex, Mallory and Jennifer leave for school through the backdoor.
Elyse: I'm sorry sweetheart, but Cathy sounded really upset. She's afraid her husband's going to leave her for another woman.
Steven: What gives her that idea?
Elyse: He hasn't been home for dinner in eight months.
Steven: So maybe he's on a diet. Why didn't you tell her you were busy? That we had special plans. That you wanted to spend the night with your husband.
Elyse: Look, I don't think she should be alone tonight. She called me in her hour of need and I just don't feel I can turn my back on her.
Steven: When you put it like that, it's pretty tough to say no. Ok look, you do what you have to do. Go over there tonight. I'll make a special dinner here and we'll celebrate the minute you get home.
Elyse hugs Steven.
Elyse: Thank you sweetheart. You're terrific.
Elyse exits the kitchen through the swinging door. Steven looks at the phone and reluctantly walks over to it. He picks it up and dials.
Steven: Hey Gweedo.
Scene 5:
Steven & Elyse's bedroom: Steven is sitting in the dark next to the food he prepared. He looks at his watch. Elyse enters and turns on the light.
Steven: Good evening, or should I say good morning?
Elyse: I didn't realize it was so late. Things kind of got heavy with Cathy. Hope I didn't cause any problems.
Steven: No. The recipe specifically says allow Veil to sit for six hours before serving. Should be just about ready.
Steven looks at his watch. Elyse takes off her coat.
Elyse: I'm sorry. I just couldn't leave Cathy.
Steven: Well, are you home to stay now, or is it just a pit stop?
Elyse: Of course. Where would I be going now?
Elyse crosses the room and hangs up her coat in the closet.
Steven: I don't know. I'm sure someone's in trouble somewhere in the world. It's 8AM in London. Perhaps some English woman is completely out of tea.
Elyse: Look, I know I said I'd be home early, but tonight was an emergency.
Steven: It's always an emergency Elyse. It's not just tonight, I haven't spent twenty consecutive minutes with you all week.
Elyse: Ok, I know I've been spreading myself a little thin lately, but you know how I am once I make a commitment.
Steven sits down in a chair. Elyse goes into the restroom.
Elyse: I think you could be a little more flexible!
Steven: Oh I see. My fault. I'm not flexible enough. Maybe if I were an undocumented alien with an overbite,
Steven gets up from the chair.
Or if they we're planning on rezoning our bedroom. I might be able to get a little bit of your attention.
Elyse comes out from the restroom. She turns off the light. She's in a nightgown.
Elyse: Look, I'm not in the mood for a fight tonight.
Steven: Not in the mood to fight? Not in the mood? Wait, I'll put on the theme from Rocky.
Elyse: Why do we have to fight now?
Elyse turns down the bed.
Steven: Because, the odds are when you are in the mood, you won't be here.
Elyse: Steven, it just so happens to be a lot of demands put on me lately. I've got this big presentation at work that I have to prepare and it's put me under a lot of pressure and this rezoning thing came to a head and then Cathy called and I felt a little obligation to her. But hey if I've been neglecting my better half, well excuse me! I'm sorry I wasn't here to celebrate with you, but if you want to celebrate right now, hey I'm all for it. Get out the hats, get out the streamers, get out your Murray! Let's celebrate!
Elyse sits down on the bed.
Steven: Just the two of us? Won't that be a little lonely for you?
Elyse: What would you suggest?
Steven: I don't know. Lets call Amastey International they have a lot of guys with time on their hands. I'm sure they can round up a fun crowd for us.
Elyse: Steven, that's it.
Elyse gets up from the bed. She picks up a pillow and the blanket.
Elyse: I'm just exhausted. I'm going to sleep in the other room.
Steven: Oh no you don't!
Steven picks up a pillow and takes the blanket away from Elyse.
Steven: A lot of things might have changed, but it's always been the man's poorogative to sleep in the other room.
Elyse: Be my guest!
Steven: I will!
Steven leaves the room and Elyse lays down on the bed.
Steven pokes his head into the room and then walks in.
Steven: Elyse.
Elyse: Yes Steven?
Steven: You know that pack we have. Always resolve all our differences before we go to sleep? Never go to bed angry?
Elyse: Oh Steven.
Steven: Well, it's off.
Scene 6:
Livingroom: Elyse, Mallory and Jennifer are present.
Elyse: He'll be here any minute.
Jennifer: I don't get it Mom. Why do we have to leave because you and Daddy had a fight?
Elyse: You don't have to leave because we had a fight. You have to leave because we want to make up.
Jennifer: Daddy's going to be really upset when he finds out it's just going to be you and him tonight.
Elyse: You wanna bet?
Alex enters from the kitchen.
Alex: Table's all set Mom.
Elyse: Oh thank you love.
Alex: It's a funny way of being mad at someone isn't it? Making them a special dinner.
Jennifer is sitting on the couch.
Elyse: Well, see your Dad and I had a little misunderstanding last night. We both said some things that I hope he's sorry for and tonight we're just going to celebrate his award with a nice quiet evening at home.
Mallory: A nice quiet evening? Is that why you're wearing (sniffs) Ravish Me perfume?
Elyse: I said quiet not boring.
Steven enters from the kitchen.
Elyse: Hello Steven. Welcome home.
Steven: Hi Mal, Alex, hi Jenny.
Steven walks past Elyse without speaking to her. He just clears his throat as he walks by. Steven walks over to the stairs and starts to go up.
Elyse: Come on Steven. I think it's time we made up.
Steven: I might not be ready.
Elyse: Look, after our discussion last night. I was thinking. I was very tired and on edge and I'm sorry some things were said and I'd like to make it up to you with a special night just the two of us.
Steven: Just the two of us?
Jennifer is leaning up against the wall by the stairs.
Jennifer: I told Mom, you'd be mad.
Steven: Well, you weren't the only one who said some things last night. I'm sorry too.
Elyse: Does that mean your ready to make up?
Steven: Sure, what the Hell, I'm easy.
They kiss.
Mallory: He doesn't look mad.
Jennifer's sitting on the couch.
Jennifer: He's covering.
Steven: Well, I'm going to go up and slip into something irresistible.
Mallory: Stay out of my closet.
Steven goes upstairs.
Elyse: Ok, Alex you're going to take Jennifer to Chrissy's, Mallory to Susan's, and you're going to Peter's, and you're going to be back here at 9:30 right?
Alex has keys in his hands.
Alex: All right Mom.
Elyse: Have a good time.
Elyse kisses Jennifer on the cheek.
Jennifer gets up and Mallory, Alex, and Jennifer head toward the kitchen.
Alex: You have a good time Mom within bounds.
Jennifer gets her coat.
Jennifer: What are bounds?
Elyse light swats Jennifer on the bottom.
Alex, Mallory and Jennifer exit.
Elyse puts music on. The doorbell rings. Elyse goes and answers it.
Elyse: Phyllis.
Phyllis: Elyse, sorry to barge in like this but--
Several women come in.
Elyse: What are you doing here?
Phyllis: We just found out that the opposition is going to try to sneak through the zoning bill tomorrow. The only way to save it is to call all the councilmen tonight.
Elyse: Tonight? Why does it have to be tonight? We haven't much time. They scheduled a session for 9AM tomorrow morning.
Berniece: Oh you've got plans. I'm sorry I didn't even notice. Look at you, you're all dressed up and (sniffs) that's Ravish Me isn't it.
Elyse: Yes. Well, actually Steven and I had a special dinner planned.
Berniece: That's powerful stuff Elyse. I don't think you'll make it to dessert.
Elyse: Well, hey I'm really sorry that I can't help you, but this has been put off. Let me help you with this stuff.
Elyse carries a handful of stuff outside.
Steven: Elyse, which goes better with this jacket? The dark brown or the gray?
Steven comes downstairs wearing a shirt, tie, jacket, and underwear, but without pants on. He is holding two pairs of pants. He sees all the women and wonders where Elyse is. He puts the pants in front of him.
Steven: Is Elyse Keaton here?
Elyse comes back inside.
Elyse: Hi Steven.
Steven: Hi Elyse. What's going on?
Elyse: They moved up the rezoning vote on us. It's tomorrow.
Steven: So?
Elyse: So, it's important that we take action tonight.
Steven: Elyse, it's important we take action tonight.
Elyse: I know. See it's ok. Everything has been moved to Bernieces house and they're going to work there.
Berniece: We'll be out of here in a second.
Phyllis: If we can carry all this stuff.
Steven: I have complete confidence in you.
It starts pouring down rain, with thunder and lightening.
Berniece: It's really raining out there.
Steven: Come on! Don't be such a marshmallow! A little rain never hurt anyone. It's good for the crops.
Berniece: We're not carrying crops.
Steven: It's just a sun shower.
Elyse: Steven we can't send them out in rain like that.
Steven: You're right. Ladies there's an inflatable raft in the garage.
Elyse: Steven!
Steven: All right. All right. Ladies, stop. Wait stop. All right ladies, look I guess you can work here.
Steven: But, we'll be in your way.
Steven: I know.
Scene 7:
Dinning room: Steven and Elyse are sitting at the dinning room table.
Elyse: To Murray.
Steven: To you.
Elyse: To the three of us.
Berniece enters.
Berniece: Elyse? We can't find the environmental impact report that was done from 1981.
Elyse: Third drawer to the left, brown folder.
Berniece: We can't find the coffee either.
Elyse: Second cupboard to the right.
Berniece walks over to Steven and Elyse.
Berniece: Isn't this romantic?
Steven: It could be.
Berniece leaves.
Steven: Elyse, lets face it, this isn't working.
Elyse; Go on with what you were saying.
Steven: Not being able to spend time with you these past few days--
Berniece comes back in and walks over to where she came in before. She's carrying a lot of things in her hands. She's not able to get he door and looks over at Steven and Elyse. She smiles.
Steven: No, no trouble at all.
Steven gets up to open the door for Berniece.
Steven: Don't be silly. None, none. Go.
He goes and sits back down at the table by Elyse.
Steven: Look, the fight we had last night reminded me of how much you mean to me. It's made me understand that we have to take better care of us, of our relationship. Sometimes the world is too much with us and we forget the really essential things, but some things never change and no matter how much time goes by--
Berniece comes in.
Berniece (singing): We must remember this. A kiss is just a k---.
Steven and Elyse look at Berniece.
Berniece: Excuse me. I didn't mean to interrupt. It's just that we're two votes short of defeating the bill. Can you think of any other councilmen that might be swayed?
Elyse: Try Max Bloominthaw.
Berniece: Bloominthaw right. (singing): A sigh is just a sigh.
Berniece leaves.
Elyse: I'm sorry Steven.
Steven: All I'm trying to say is your very important to me. Last night alone is the guest room it felt so strange not having you next to me and I realize that it would be a terrible thing void if I suddenly found myself without--
Elyse: Ralph Jetlin.
Steven: No, not him.
Elyse: No, I think Ralph Jetlin could be talked into voting with us.
Steven: Elyse!
Elyse: I'm sorry Steven. I have to tell Berniece. I'll be right back.
Elyse gets up and goes to tell Berniece. Steven throws his napkin on the table and gets up and leaves. Elyse comes back in.
Elyse: Ok Steven now we're alone.
Elyse realizes Steven left.
Scene 8:
Livingroom: Steven enters from the front door soaking wet. Elyse is on the couch facing away from Steven.
Elyse: Hello.
Steven: Hello. Hello Berniece. Hello Phyllis.
Elyse: Stop it Steven. They're gone.
Steven: How'd the vote count go?
Elyse: I think we have enough to win. We'll know for sure tomorrow.
Elyse turns around and gets up. She sees that Steven is soaking wet.
Elyse: Steven, you're soaking wet!
Steven: I've been walking around since I left.
Elyse goes over to Steven.
Elyse: For three hours in the rain? My goodness.
Steven: I didn't say I enjoyed it.
Elyse: Well, come upstairs and change.
Steven: No.
Elyse: Steven, you're going to catch a cold.
Steven: Elyse, I have a few things to say to you Elyse and I'm not changing my clothes until I say them.
Elyse: You have every right to be angry.
Steven: I am angry. I'm just not sure if I'm angry at you, at me, or at condominiums. I'm confused. Part of me feels selfish and part of me feels neglected.
Steven sits down at the table by the front door.
Elyse: All of you looks wet and soggy. Won't you come up and change?
Steven gets up from the table.
Steven: I'm trying to explain something to you and to myself. Look all of the things which have been taking up your time these last few days have been wonderful. Your career, spending time with the kids, helping distraught women. Even though part of me wants you around the house here all the time. I love the fact that you're never here. That didn't come out right.
Elyse: I think I know what you mean.
Steven: I just can't help feeling that at some point during the last few days, you could have said no to someone besides me. It seems like you're just taking me for granted.
Elyse: It's because I'm taking you for granted.
Steven: So I was on the right track.
Elyse: Look, don't think I'm taking for granted the fact that you let me take you for granted.
Steven: If I understood that, would I be happy?
Elyse: Well, I meant it as a compliment. See, I was brought up to think of the husband as the be all end all of my existence. That the man should be the center of my life and that I should learn to live in his shadow and sublimate my ambitions to his and wait on him hand and foot. Satisfy his every need. Answer his every desire. Well you can see how ridiculous that is can't you?
No response
Elyse: Can't you Steven?
No response.
Elyse: Oh Steven.
Steven: Sorry, momentary lapse. Of course I don't want that.
Elyse: No, you'd hate it.
Steven: Well, maybe hate is too strong a word.
Elyse: Steven, it's been your support and encouragement that has allowed me to grow and become the woman I am. I don't know another man I could be fighting with right now.
Steven: I'm flattered.
Elyse: When things get hectic and I'm being pulled in all directions I find that I'm short changing you because I know you'll always be there for me.
Steven: I want to be there for you.
Elyse: But, I know I haven't been there for you. That I wasn't there to share your award because I was doing things. I know I have to learn to say no to other things so that there will be time for us. So for now on if it's between clean air and you, clean air has to go.
They kiss.
Steven: Don't do that Elyse. Clean air is important.
Elyse: All right, clean air stays. How about, I know, planned parenthood.
Steven: You can't give that up.
Elyse: Ok, I know, pets without partners.
Steven: There's one. That can go.
They start to go up the stairs. Elyse turns off the lights downstairs.
Steven: Although, I'd hate to think of all those lonely pets.
The End.