The Way We Were Part 3

[mlee727@aol.com]

EXT. EASTLAND -- MORNING

It is Monday, March 1, 1982. 8:30am. Mr. Parker stands infront of the doors to the school. Girls and teachers are gathered infront of the school. Cindy, Sue Ann, Nancy, Jo, Molly, Tootie and Natalie stand in a tight circle. They are all in their uniforms.

MR. PARKER
Girls, teachers. Everyone, please, may I have your attention. It is my pleasure to once again open the doors to Eastland School. We will stand proud and conquer. Cause we are Eastland. We have proven that we can and will overcome tragedy and we will not let anyone stand in our way.

Mr. Parker opens the doors to the school.

MR. PARKER
Let the classes begin.

The students stand still. Slowly, some of the students start to make their way into the building. Natalie, Jo, Tootie, Cindy, Sue Ann, Molly and Nancy exchange looks and walk in.

INT. EASTLAND -- CONTINUOUS

Natalie, Jo, Tootie, Sue Ann, Cindy, Molly and Nancy walk in. They start to move down the hall. As they walk, we hear snickers and people talking about Jo. Some people shout things such as "friend of a killer" and such, some just give her dirty looks. Jo pretends like it doesn't affect her. They reach a classroom.

JO
Okay, we made it.

The group looks at each other. Suddenly, they all hug each other goodbye. Tootie and Molly walk off in one direction, while Cindy and Natalie walk off in the other. Nancy, Jo and Sue Ann exchange looks and walk into the classroom. Mrs. Cauble stands infront of the blackboard. The three girls sit in the middle of the room. Nancy sits behind Sue Ann. Jo sits next to Nancy. The three girls stare at the empty desk in front of Jo. It's where Blair would sit.

MRS. CAUBLE
Girls, welcome back to Calculus. How is Blair.

JO
She's coming home March 12.

MRS. CAUBLE
The Friday before spring break?

MELISSA
Not if Jo can help it.

BRIANNE
I know. Are you and Blair still gonna be roommates after what you did?

JO
I had nothing to do with it.

SUE ANN
Stuff it, Brianne.

MRS. CAUBLE
Class. That's enough.

BRIANNE
What? The defense said she had a warning.

JO
It wasn't definite.

BRIANNE
But it was a warning, nonetheless. I lost my sister, thanks to you and your monster friend.

MELISSA
And now, they're trying to paint Blair as the cause. She was not the cause, you were.

Other students start joining in.

ELIZABETH
On the other hand, Blair could learn to be a bit a nicer.

MELISSA
Blair is a sweetheart.

ELIZABETH
On what planet?

MRS. CAUBLE
Girls, girls. Please. This is not Jo's fault, nor is it Blair's.

ELIZABETH
If Blair was a bit nicer, it wouldn't have caused Sophie to snap and we wouldn't have had this happen.

JENNIFER
It's high school, deal with it.

ELIZABETH
It's totally Blair's fault.

JULIE
I agree. Blair's a jerk.

TARYN
She really is. If she cared for one second about someone else besides herself, this would not have happened.

The class begins to split in half. With half arguing for Blair and against Jo and the other half arguing against Blair and for Jo and Sophie. Mrs. Cauble tries to get the class to calm down with little success. In the midst of it all, sit Jo, Sue Ann and Nancy. They are stunned. The class continues to argue.

INT. PRISON -- DAY

It is Monday, March 8. Jo is talking to Sophie.

JO
You happy, now?

SOPHIE
I think so. The prosecution going down.

JO
What are you trying to accomplish?

SOPHIE
It's the difference between life and death. If they find Blair capable of pushing me over the edge, they won't put me to death.

JO
Soph, your case holds no merit. It's dumb.

SOPHIE
Have you heard anything from our friends from home? Amy or Jessie?

JO
No.

SOPHIE
They haven't even come to visit. You know, my parents haven't even visited. No one has. Except you and my lawyers. Everyone who I thought would visit and care hasn't. Thank you for visiting.

JO
It's been hard, Soph. It's easy to care for Blair. But for you...I have to explain myself. And I hate that. This thing has split everyone. People are hating Blair, hating me. The only thing everyone can agree on is everyone hates you.

SOPHIE
I'm sorry.

JO
Me too.

They continue to talk.

INT. LOUNGE -- EVENING

It is Wednesday, March 10, 1982. Jo is sitting by herself in the lounge. From an outsiders perspective, she looks lost and very sad. She is staring off into space when Mrs. Garrett walks in.

MRS. GARRETT
Jo?

Jo looks up at Mrs. Garrett. Her eyes are filled with tears.

JO
Sophie wanted to be a doctor, Mrs. G. She used to pretend she was a doctor. I remember being five and she wore a white lab coat and this little black bag. And she would like drive me and our friends nuts pretending to be Dr. Soph. She wanted to be an ER surgeon. Like on MASH. She had it planned. She'd move to Los Angeles and marry another doctor and she'd live in the suburbs.

MRS. GARRETT
Sounds like a great dream.

JO
People don't get that. All they see is this monster. But she's not a monster. Tootie and Nat call her that all the time. Monster. She's a human being that made a real bad decision. That might cost her life.

MRS. GARRETT
But she made that decision and you didn't put the gun her hand. Neither did Blair. She decided to do what she did. It was premeditated. People get teased. You know that more than anyone.

JO
I just wish I could've done something. I will never forget that image. Blair lying there in a pool of her own blood. And Sophie's face. This wild, crazy look. Everytime I close my eyes, I see that. That look. And I see Nancy and Sue Ann cradling Blair and Blair getting this vacant look in her eyes. Long after all this is over, I'm never gonna forget it. And we have two other girls in our group, Mrs. G. It was me, Sophie and Amy and Jessie. After this happened, I called them up. They ran. I thought they would stick by me or by Sophie but-

MRS. GARRETT
They aren't?

JO
No. And okay, I can understand them not wanting to deal with Sophie but why me? I'm doing this alone.

MRS. GARRETT
No, you're not.

JO
I am. No one here gets it and no one at home wants to deal with it. It's like another mark on people trying to make it. Those crazy Bronx kids. Always shooting people. They need help because they're the kids in trouble with bad parents.

Jo sits, quietly. She takes a deep breath. Mrs. Garrett holds her tightly.

INT. HOSPITAL ROOM -- EVENING

It is Thursday, March 11, 1982. Blair is lying in her bed, watching TV. She looks good. All of the tubes are gone and the morphine and IV are gone. She is flipping through the channels. She stops on the news.

NEWSCASTER
And the school shooting that rocked the quiet town of Peekskill last January has taken another bizarre turn. The prosecution kicked off today with Molly Parker, Allyson Goldman and Christine Stemple, friends of the intended victim of the shooting, Blair Warner. Tomorrow Dina Becker, Natalie Green and Dorothy Ramsey will take the stand for the prosecuting.

There is knock at the door.

BLAIR
Go away, I'm sleeping!
(a beat)
And my blood pressure is fine!

The door opens. Jo, Natalie and Tootie walk in.

J0
Hey, Blair.

TOOTIE
We've come to visit. The night before you go home.

BLAIR
Yeah. Hey, are you guys gonna go home for Spring Break.

TOOTIE
My flight is Saturday morning.

BLAIR
I think I'm going straight from this bed to my amazingly comfortable king sized bed in Manhattan. I miss my bedroom. Heck, I even miss our room.

TOOTIE
You can't go home tomorrow.

BLAIR
Why not?

TOOTIE
Well, you can go home. Just not home, home.

BLAIR
Are you planning something?

NATALIE
Why do we tell you things?

J0
Cause we're stupid.

BLAIR
What's going on?

J0
We're planning a welcome home party for you tomorrow night before everyone leaves for Spring Break on Saturday.

BLAIR
Awww. Thank you guys. You shouldn't have. Okay, I'll go home Saturday.

TOOTIE
Good.

Blair laughs.

BLAIR
(motions to the TV)
Can you believe this is happening? Did I do something in past life that I'm being punished for?

NATALIE
Maybe?

BLAIR
Maybe I was a dictator?

J0
Like Hitler?

BLAIR
Maybe. I don't reveal anything and yet, that's fair game. She's trying to kill me, Jo.

The group becomes silent.

TOOTIE
So, anyone up for a round of stupid questions?

Blair smiles.

BLAIR
Ask away.

Tootie grabs the book from the dresser and opens it.

TOOTIE
If you were a doughnut, what kind would you be?

The group thinks this over. They begin to talk and laugh.

INT. HOSPITAL ROOM -- MORNING

It is Friday, March 12, 1982. Blair is packing up whatever belongings she has. She is putting all of the stuffed animals in a big duffel bag and putting all the flowers on her bed. She is running out of room. She looks good now. The morphine is gone. She looks back to normal. Her hair is back to brunette. She also looks almost rail thin, although it is hard to tell under the clothes she is wearing. She is wearing a pair of jeans that at one point fit her perfectly, but are now way too big on her. A sweatshirt with "EASTLAND" on it which looks huge. She has her hair pulled back into a low ponytail. Her hair looks dirty and she is not wearing any make up. The thinness of her face makes her eyes look even more huge. She looks up at the TV. Natalie is on trial. Blair shakes her head as she watches.

DEFENSE
So can you tell us please, has Ms. Warner ever treated you in a way that you would consider insulting?

BLAIR
No.

NATALIE
No.

Blair reacts.

BLAIR
Damn, right.

Blair sits on the bed and continues to watch.

DEFENSE
Has she ever made fun of any physical appearance of yours? Such as weight perhaps?

Blair reacts.

BLAIR
Have I called her fat?

PROSECUTION
Objection.

BLAIR
Yeah!

DEFENSE
Sorry.

BLAIR
You should be.

NATALIE
No, cause we have always had the same problem. We actually help each other out. My problem is a bit bigger.

DEFENSE
Has she ever made any derogatory comments regarding Judaism?

BLAIR
What!? Well, once I asked her what a latka was...that's anti-Semitic?

NATALIE
No. She hasn't.

The doctor, Monica and David walk in.

DOCTOR
It's time time for you to leave us now.

BLAIR
Goodbye Dr. Ross. It was a pleasure.

DOCTOR
You enjoyed every moment?

BLAIR
You have no idea.

DOCTOR
Well, I must tell you, everything looked fabulous. Vital signs working well. You have lost a substantial amount of weight.

BLAIR
How much?

DOCTOR
Fifty five pounds.

BLAIR
I weigh 95 pounds?

DOCTOR
Yep.

BLAIR
Cool.

DOCTOR
No.

BLAIR
No?

DOCTOR
You're 5"3. You're now severely underweight.

BLAIR
Awww, man. That's bad?

DOCTOR
Yes. But soon you'll get your appetite back. And you'll gain weight.

BLAIR
Lucky me.

The doctor laughs.

MONICA
Are you ready to go home?

BLAIR
Yep.

DOCTOR
We'll need you to come back in about three weeks. For a check up.

BLAIR
Okay. Thanks. Oh-

She picks up one of the bouquets of flowers and hands it to the doctor.

BLAIR
Thank you.

DOCTOR
I can't take these. These are yours.

BLAIR
I know, but look at all this. I don't have enough room. I mean, I was contemplating getting rid of my roommates so I'd have more room for the flowers. But they may get upset.

DOCTOR
You're welcome.

The doctor takes them.

DOCTOR
Other than that, go home.

BLAIR
To Eastland?

Blair looks at her parents. They exchange looks. Monica and David look at her.

MONICA
To Eastland.

Monica and David move to help Blair get ready to leave.

INT. CAR -- LATER

David is driving. Blair is in the passenger seat with Monica in back. Blair is playing with the radio.

DAVID
Honey, I like that.

Blair stops on an Elvis song, "Ain't Nothing But a Hound Dog"

BLAIR
Dad.

DAVID
What?

BLAIR
Daddy, Elvis?

DAVID
Yes, Elvis.

BLAIR
But he's fat and wears white when he really shouldn't.

MONICA
I had such a crush on him when I was little.

BLAIR
Mom.

DAVID
Obviously, she doesn't understand good music.

MONICA
How could she with what these kids listen to today? The Go-Go's?

BLAIR
They rock.
(spoken)
Listen, ain't nothing but a hound dog, crying all the time. Well, you never caught a rabbit and you ain't no friend of mine. He's real deep. Deeply stupid.

DAVID
What?
(spoken)
We got the beat. We got the beat. Everybody stand up and see. We got beat.

BLAIR
Well, not the way you do it. Besides I thought the rule was that along with the front seat came radio privelidges. And you both agreed that I deserve the front seat. Therefore, I, Ms. Blair Nicole Warner am in charge of all radio stations which means no Elvis-
(she changes it)
And yes to...say hello to Jenny.

We hear "867-5309, Jenny" playing. David drives off. Blair stares out the window.

DAVID
How you doing sweetie?

BLAIR
Alright. You two really pulled through for me. Thank you.

MONICA
I'm gonna stay in Peekskill. Until you graduate. After Spring break, I'm gonna get an apartment up there. I just...I can't have you be alone.

BLAIR
Mom, I live in a room with three other girls.

MONICA
But still.

Blair smiles. Monica puts her hand on Blair's shoulder. Blair reaches back and holds her mothers hand.

INT. GIRLS BEDROOM -- LATER

Blair walks into her bedroom with her mom and dad close behind. She smiles as she enters her room. She stands in the center and does a little spin. She is in heaven.

BLAIR
I'm home. Ohhh. The smell. How I miss the smell of motor oil mixed with the precious scent of Ralph Loren. There's a TV. I guess we got a TV. How did they talk Mrs. Garrett into that? Or they watch the trial everyday.

Blair walks over to the desk and turns on the TV. The trial comes on.

BLAIR
Guess they watch the trial.

She sits on her bed.

DAVID
You wanna watch the trial?

BLAIR
I do.

David sits on Jo's bed and Monica pulls the chair back to sit in between David and Blair. Tootie is on the stand.

BLAIR
Tootie? Why is she on the stand?

DAVID
She is relevant. She was shot at.

BLAIR
Okay, I'll give you Tootie. But it's all so dumb. They're trying to prove I'm this horrible person and...they're trying to prove that I'm anti-Semitic. Anything that's wrong in the world is my fault.

We turn to the TV.

PROSECUTION
Her teasing never hurt you?

TOOTIE
She's been my best friend for four years. And I hope to be her best friend for a long time.

PROSECUTION
Answer the question?

TOOTIE
Well, we lived in one room for three years. We shared one bathroom and worked together. How could we not hurt each other at times? I'm sure I said stuff that was mean to her. You don't live that close to someone without stepping on their toes every once in a while.

PROSECUTION
So, you've never had a problem with her that might cause you to-

TOOTIE
-to go on a shooting rampage? No. I've been teased a lot worse by a lot more people. You try being one of four black students in an all white school. In fact, she protects me a lot. Blair treats me like a little sister and I like it.

PROSECUTION
Thank you. No further questions your honor.

The prosecutor sits. The defense gets up.

DEFENSE
Isn't true that Ms. Warner's grandfather was a white supremicist.

TOOTIE
Yes.

DEFENSE
When Ms. Warner found this out what happened?

TOOTIE
She felt bad.

DEFENSE
Is she more condscending to you than anyone else?

TOOTIE
No.

JUDGE
Let's remember who's on trial here.

DEFENSE
I'm just trying to establish a motive for Sophie being pushed over the edge.

TOOTIE
Cause she's insane.

JUDGE
Ms. Ramsey, that's enough. Jury will disregard that last remark.

DEFENSE
No further questions.

JUDGE
You may step down.

We cut back to the girls room where Blair and her parents watch in shock.

BLAIR
Please tell me how this is my fault.

MONICA
It's not.

DAVID
The defense is trying to find a motive and all of your friends are on the prosecuting side trying to prove that you aren't vicious.

MONICA
David.

DAVID
What?

MONICA
You're calling our daughter vicious?

DAVID
No, I'm just saying what they're trying to do.

MONICA
The defense is trying to make her look bad.

DAVID
No, they're trying establish motive.

MONICA
By making Blair out to be a scapegoat.

BLAIR
(to herself)
Welcome home, Warner.
(to her parents)
Guys, please. Can we not fight now?

MONICA
Sorry.

BLAIR
I'm gonna go take a long shower.

MONICA
Honey, let me help.

BLAIR
No, mom. I can do it.

Blair walks to her closet and grabs a dress. She opens the drawers and takes out some underwear and a bra and walks out the room.

MONICA
David, I'm scared. How could they do this? She's not a bully. I didn't raise a bully.

DAVID
I helped.

MONICA
Barely.

DAVID
Monica.

MONICA
I'm sorry. I watched as the defense tore her to pieces. Now I'm watching as the defense is cross examining Blair's friends and trying to show people that Blair is some vicious person capable of pushing someone over the edge.

Monica stares sadly at the TV. David looks at his ex-wife and puts his arm around her. She smiles as he comforts her.

INT. BATHROOM -- CONTINUOUS

Blair slowly walks into the bathroom and looks around. She notices a large gift wrapped basket on the floor by the tub with a card that says, "BLAIR" on it. Next to the basket is a large thing of make up. She hangs the dress on a hook and grabs the basket. She closes the toilet seat and sits down. She takes off the card and opens it. She reads.

BLAIR
Dear Warner, we figured this might come in handy in your return trip home. Just remember not to use up all the hot water. Love your friends, Jo, Natalie and Tootie.

Blair puts the card down and opens the basket. She begins to pull out shampoo, conditioner, a razor, a sponge, shower gel, lotion and other bathing necessities. Last but not least, she pulls out a big pink terry cloth robe, folded on the bottom. She unfolds it and sees "Bow to the Queen" monogrammed in white on the back. She laughs. She puts the the robe on another hook. She turns on the shower and steps in.

INT. BATHROOM -- LATER

Blair steps out into the steam filled bathroom and looks at herself in the mirror. The mirror is fogged up. She takes her hand and wipes it clean. She gets a good look at herself. There are bruises all over her body from where needles and tubes used to be. There are scars everywhere. The scars have surgical tape lining them. She looks like Frankenstein. Blair can barely breath as she tries to catch her breath. What she see clearly shocks her. She grabs the robe and puts it on her, slowly. She closes the toilet seat cover and sits. She slowly starts to cry.

INT. KITCHEN -- NIGHT

Christine, Ally, Dina, Mrs. Garrett, Molly, Cindy, Nancy, Natalie, Sue Ann, Tootie, Jo, Rose, Charlie, Mr. Parker, Mrs. Cauble, Jason and Seth are standing around and waiting for Blair. Mrs. Garrett is talking with Mr. Parker. Monica and David help walk Blair down the stairs.

MONICA
Ladies and gentlemen, the guest of honor.

Everyone turns to see Blair. Her now brown hair falls half way down her waist. She is quite bony looking. She looks very good. She is wearing a cranberry red dress. Blair's face lights up as she sees everyone standing there.

BLAIR
Hi, guys.

As she reaches the bottom of the stairs, people start to walk to her and hug her.

ALLY
You look beautiful.

BLAIR
Thanks.

CHRISTINE
Welcome home, Gemini.

Blair hugs each one of them individually.

ALLY
How are you feeling?

BLAIR
Tired. I look awful.

CHRISTINE
Where?

BLAIR
Everywhere. I'm bruised and-

ALLY
If that's the worst possible thing to come of this-

BLAIR
I know, but...I wish I came out of it looking, well, as beautiful as always.

DINA
You look beautiful. And might I say, brunette is a smashing hair color.

ALLY
I know, Becker. I don't know why she thinks blondes have more fun. Obviously, it's the brunettes.

DINA
Most definitely.

CHRISTINE
Excuse me? As a natural blonde, I am truly offended.

Blair laughs. Tootie and Natalie walk over to her.

BLAIR
Hey.

Tootie and Natalie each hug her.

NATALIE
We are so proud of you.

TOOTIE
You got so thin.

BLAIR
That's what not eating will do to you.

TOOTIE
We have food for you.

NATALIE
Within the diet provided for us from the hospital.

TOOTIE
You will be having Jello, pudding and some pasta.

BLAIR
I can't wait. See, mom meet the reasons you don't have to worry.

Monica laughs.

BLAIR
Thanks for the bath stuff and the robe. Simply divine. And-

NATALIE
Oh and we made a hair appointment for you. Next Saturday at 2. You will be blonde again in no time.

CHRISTINE
Ha. Looks like Warner knows a good hair color when she sees it.

Christine puts her arm around Blair.

BLAIR
I do. I'm going to mingle.

Christine, Ally, Dina, Tootie and Natalie help Blair through the crowd of people all welcoming Blair home.

JASON
Hey, Warner.

Jason and Seth walk over to them.

BLAIR
Jason.

SETH
(jokingly)
You look like crap...far better as a blonde.

BLAIR
See.

ALLY
Gee, Seth. You're all heart.

SETH
What? Blair, did we just meet.

BLAIR
No and you should know me by now Ally, I do look far less than spectacular and I'd rather have someone tell me the truth than be all nice just for my sake. Thank you, Seth.

SETH
I'm the better friend.

BLAIR
You keep telling yourself that.

SETH
But I am so glad you're home. I would've missed you too much.

DINA
Awww.

SETH
Becker, go suck a mink.

Blair laughs as she and Seth hug. Dina casually walks up behind Seth and puts her fingernails in his shoulder.

DINA
I don't suck, I capture.

Seth gives Dina a look. Blair cracks up.

JASON
Hey, don't I get a hug.

BLAIR
Yes.

They hug.

CHRISTINE
Awww.

DINA
How sweet.

ALLY
Adorable.

SETH
They need a room.

BLAIR
Scatter.

Everyone except Tootie and Natalie walk off.

BLAIR
You too.

TOOTIE
What kinds of friends would we be?

NATALIE
Really. We wanna keep an eye on you.

TOOTIE
To make sure everything is okay.

NATALIE
Wouldn't want to let Monica down.

BLAIR
Guys, I'll tell you what happens.

NATALIE
Okay.

TOOTIE
You better.

They walk off.

JASON
What are you going to say?

BLAIR
Probably something I made up. You should hear some of the stuff I tell them. I have a really exciting life.

JASON
Really?

BLAIR
I'm no longer a virgin, you know. I lost it at 15.

JASON
To whom?

BLAIR
I haven't decided yet. Greg Vinson was really cute. He liked me in sixth grade. He sent me a Valentine.

JASON
No, not him.

BLAIR
Why not?

JASON
He may uh, not like girls?

BLAIR
Oh. How do you know?

JASON
He hit on Seth.

BLAIR
When? Was it really-

JASON
Greg wanted to know if Seth was taking anyone to the Senior Prom.

Blair's eyes widen. She starts to laugh.

BLAIR
What did Seth say?

JASON
No.

Blair starts to crack up. Jason laughs at her.

BLAIR
I can use this against him for years. You know, we haven't been on a date yet.

JASON
We haven't have we?

BLAIR
No.

JASON
What are you doing next Saturday?

BLAIR
Probably studying, but I can take a break.

JASON
G-d Blair, when I thought I could lose you...scared me to death. And not just cause I want to sleep with you one day-

BLAIR
Oh.

JASON
Well, we've known each other long enough. I figured who needs formality.

BLAIR
Apparently.

JASON
But cause...I don't know, you're my...friend...best-

Blair smiles.

JASON
When we were in sixth grade, I...I was jealous of Greg. Cause all the girls loved him. Including you. And now that the only way he could love you is if you had a certain male body part, I feel better. But I remember you. You, Ally and Christine and Dina arranged your desks in a big square. And the other guys loved Christine because she was blonde. But I-I-

Blair kisses him, suddenly. He holds her close to him.

JASON
Welcome home.

BLAIR
Thanks.

Blair and Jason embrace each other.

INT. GIRLS BEDROOM -- EVENING

Tootie, Natalie and Mrs. Garrett help Blair into the bedroom.

MRS. GARRETT
Are you sure you don't want my room? It's big...are you gonna be okay?

BLAIR
I'm gonna be fine. I'm a strong woman.

TOOTIE
You really are, Blair. I still have nightmares.

NATALIE
Me too.

Jo walks in.

JO
The trial went well today.

TOOTIE
Did I do okay?

JO
You did great.

BLAIR
I can't believe he was trying to prove I was racist. Yeah, Tootie, I meant to tell you. I keep my white sheets under my bed.

Tootie laughs.

TOOTIE
I knew it.

BLAIR
And in my spare time, I draw swatizkas and burn crosses.

NATALIE
Still?

They laugh.

BLAIR
But seriously, you two do know I would never say or do anything that would be derogatory to your religion or your race right?

TOOTIE
Of course.

NATALIE
Blair, if you were anti-Semitic or racist, you wouldn't be living with Tootie and I and you wouldn't be friends with us.

BLAIR
I just want you to know.

Tootie and Natalie help Blair to her bed. Blair lies down.

BLAIR
Thanks.

NATALIE
Hang on.

Natalie runs over to her bed and grabs her stuffed puppy dog off her bed and gives it to Blair.

BLAIR
Oh, Natalie. I can't sleep with S. Cassidy. He's yours.

NATALIE
Yeah, but I've found he chases away bad dreams.

TOOTIE
And we want you to be okay.

BLAIR
You two are so sweet.

She hugs them both. Blair snuggles in her bed and holds the animal close to her. Jo gets into her bed.

MRS. GARRETT
Good night, girls.

Mrs. Garrett starts to walk to the door.

MRS. GARRETT
Do you girls mind if I leave your door open tonight? Just to give me a peace of mind?

BLAIR
Sure.

TOOTIE
And we'll be here.

Mrs. Garrett leaves.

JO
Good night Nat and Tootie.

BLAIR
Good night guys, both of you did great.

TOOTIE
Thanks. Good night Blair and Jo.

NATALIE
Good night.

JO
You gonna be okay?

BLAIR
I want it to be over.

JO
I know.

BLAIR
How have you been sleeping?

JO
I haven't. I haven't slept in a month.

BLAIR
I wish I had that morphine.

JO
Jello?

BLAIR
I like red Jello. It's the best Jello.

JO
I'm gonna try to sleep. Oh, by the way, Greg-

BLAIR
Don't even start with me.

JO
You know, that's not fair to give me ammunition when I'm trying to be nice to you.

BLAIR
I apologize.

JO
Yeah, well, think next time.

BLAIR
I'll try.

JO
By the way, when would be a good time to tease you about that?

BLAIR
April 4th, 1982.

JO
My birthday?

BLAIR
It's your day. Good night, Jo.

JO
Good night, Blair. Vinson. Oh, wait no.

BLAIR
Not till April 4th.

JO
Warming up.

Jo turns over and tries to sleep. She turns back to face Blair.

JO
Hey, Warner.

Blair looks over at Jo.

JO
Welcome home.

Blair smiles as Jo turns back. Blair zones.

INT. GIRLS BEDROOM -- LATER

Natalie and Tootie are sound asleep, Jo is wide awake. Blair is sleeping. She suddenly screams.

BLAIR
No. No. Don't shoot...please.

She cries as she tosses and turns. Jo gets up and moves to Blair's bed. Natalie and Tootie bolt up and Mrs. Garrett races into the room.

BLAIR
Oh G-d, no.

Jo shakes her.

JO
Blair, Blair. Wake up.

Blair bolts up. She tries to catch her breath.

JO
Blair?

MRS. GARRETT
Sweetie.

Blair is sobbing. Jo comforts her. Mrs. Garrett walks over to her and lies on Blair's bed. She holds Blair hand as she cries. Blair tries to catch her breath.

BLAIR
Mrs. Garrett...she's gonna come back.

MRS. GARRETT
She won't.

BLAIR
I know it.

MRS. GARRETT
You're safe here.

BLAIR
I'm not. I can't do this. I'm not gonna make it, you guys. I look awful. I feel worse.

TOOTIE
You're gonna make it through.

NATALIE
We won't have it any other way.

Blair looks at them and takes a deep breath. She sounds almost hollow.

BLAIR
Mrs. Garrett?

MRS. GARRETT
I'm not leaving.

She puts her head on Mrs. Garrett's shoulder. Mrs. Garrett holds her close. Jo gets up and moves back to her bed. She lies down. The group slowly becomes silent and tries to fall back to sleep.

INT. GIRLS BEDROOM -- LATER

Mrs. Garrett is sound asleep, with Blair sleeping on her. Everyone is asleep, except Jo. Blair starts to shake again. Jo looks over at her. She starts sobbing.

BLAIR
No. Oh G-d no. Jo!

Mrs. Garrett wakes up.

MRS. GARRETT
Blair, Blair.

Blair wakes up, sobbing.

BLAIR
Oh, Jo.

JO
Yes?

BLAIR
Ohhh.

Natalie and Tootie wake up.

NATALIE
Blair?

BLAIR
Oh, G-d.

MRS. GARRETT
Sweetie.

JO
You're okay now, Blair.

BLAIR
I want it to stop. I want the shooting to stop. I hear the sounds. And I hear...people crying and screams. Like a slaughterhouse. Nancy on my left. Sue Ann on the right and I just wanted to flunk a test. And then, Sue Ann was in the line and I-I just-I remember it so clearly. I was flunking that test. And I had to move. Jo kept making me laugh.

JO
Blair, you don't need to do this.

BLAIR
And I sat and Sue Ann, Nancy and Jo were sitting in various corners cause we kept laughing and goofing off so Mrs. Cauble separated us.
(Blair closes her eyes as she visualizes)
Then I had written down the number 14. Which is what I always write when I don't know the answer. And then-

NATALIE
You don't have to-

BLAIR
Then, I heard a sound. Pop, popping sound. And I looked up. Then we heard screaming. Loud, blood curdling screams and more popping. And then Sue Ann and Nancy bolted over to me as we sat in the aisle and held on to each other. We held so tight. I was in the middle and we were shaking. Sue Ann was trembling and trying to joke. Like she clicked her heels three times and said, I wanna go home.

Blair smiles.

TOOTIE
Blair-

BLAIR
Then Nancy said cause we aren't in Kansas anymore and then we started to talk about the Wizard of Oz. We thought if we talked about it...it would stop. Then we saw-Jo was over by her desk and we told her to come over. She didn't. Why didn't you come?

JO
I don't know.

BLAIR
And we kept telling her to come and I heard her coming closer-

MRS. GARRETT
You don't need to go on.

BLAIR
She came in and Jo said Sophie and tried to stop her and she came up and said, princess, I got my target and then-
(she lifts her hand up into the shape of a gun and points it at herself. She moves it around her head and does what Sophie had done)
Then she put the gun to my head. And moved it around and pointed and I-they said don't shoot her. And then Jo talked her out of it and walked with her to the door. Jo took then gun away.

JO
Blair-

BLAIR
Then Sophie took a gun
(reenacts it)
Out from her back and pointed-
(She points the "gun")
And shot. I heard screaming. I felt blood. I heard my name and Nancy tried to stop the bleeding but it made more pain so she stopped. I saw Nancy's hair and Sue Ann's smile telling me to pull through. I saw...I heard mumbles. Then I heard another shot and I heard someone scream. And then heard my name again and I saw Jo's tie as it hit my cheek. And-

MRS. GARRETT
It's okay. You don't need to continue.

BLAIR
I-I don't-then it was cloudy. I was in a daze. A fog and I heard my name and I heard people mumbling. Then I heard people come in and then I felt alone. And it was dark. And-I-I was cold.

MRS. GARRETT
Blair, it's okay. You're here now.

JO
And you aren't alone.

BLAIR
Then I was in a line and I saw people and I was looking for Sue Ann and I was mad because Sue Ann stands behind me in line. Active since seventh grade. And I couldn't find her, Mrs. Garrett. I couldn't find Sue Ann and she was supposed to be there. Then I looked for you guys. Everyone was line. And I saw all these girls and some I kinda knew, some I didn't. But I couldn't find you guys and I started sobbing and crying. I felt so alone.

Blair is in hysterics by this point. Mrs. Garrett holds her as she sobs. She is shaking. Jo, Tootie and Natalie exchange looks.

INT. KITCHEN -- MORNING

It is Saturday, March 13, 9:00am. Natalie and Tootie are resting.

NATALIE
What a night?

TOOTIE
I didn't sleep a wink.

NATALIE
Do you think she'll be okay?

TOOTIE
I hope so. But stuff like that changes you.

Blair walks downstairs. Natalie and Tootie are oblivious.

NATALIE
That's what my dad says. Her wounds will heal, but the psychological trauma can really mess you up.

TOOTIE
I'd miss her so much Nat. If she'd died. I know it sounds odd, because we always make fun of her but oh, I would've missed her.

NATALIE
Me too. When she almost died, I realized how much I actually like her. I tried to imagine what it would've been like. If she was gone...I imagine walking into that room and seeing one bed on that side instead of two. No perfume, no massive amounts of clothing. It would've left a huge hole.

TOOTIE
I would've missed her sense of humor. She's a good friend when it comes down to it.

NATALIE
She is. One of the best. She's just great.

TOOTIE
I live for the day when she'll walk in here all high and mighty and in the most condscending voice say, "oh, I just had another one of my brilliant ideas."

NATALIE
Me too...I'm so thankful she's here to be condscending.

They laugh. Blair smiles. She straightens up and walks into the kitchen.

BLAIR
Hey, you guys.

TOOTIE
Hey.

BLAIR
Listen, I'm sorry about last night.

TOOTIE
Don't sweat it.

BLAIR
How are you two doing?

NATALIE
Tired. You?

BLAIR
Getting by. Hey, I was listening...I was over there. Would you have really missed me if I was gone?

TOOTIE
Oh G-d, Blair. Yes.

NATALIE
Everyday.

TOOTIE
Could you do us a huge favor?

Blair smiles. She sits up straight and turns her nose up a bit.

BLAIR
I just had another one of my brilliant ideas.

Tootie and Natalie cheer and high five each other. Blair laughs. Tootie and Natalie hug Blair at the same time. Jo walks into the kitchen. She sits down.

JO
I'm so happy for Spring Break.

NATALIE
Same here.

JO
I'm gonna go home.

NATALIE
Me too.

TOOTIE
My flight is in two hours.

BLAIR
I'm going back tonight. I'll be studying for two weeks straight. Didn't you say Mrs. Cauble was giving us a Calculus test after break?

JO
Yeah, but I'm sure you don't need to study for it.

BLAIR
Then how do you expect me to ace it?

JO
What?

BLAIR
I'm not missing it. I can't let her win. I mean, the trial isn't stopping for spring break. But I refuse to be sucked into it. I got more important things to concern myself with.

Blair looks at them. They react.

INT. LOUNGE -- DAY

Blair has all of her stuff scattered around the lounge. Mrs. Garrett walks over to her.

MRS. GARRETT
How are you doing?

BLAIR
Okay.

MRS. GARRETT
Do me a favor? Call me when you get home.

BLAIR
Will do, Mrs. Garrett.

MRS. GARRETT
I am so proud of you.

BLAIR
Even with what happened last night?

MRS. GARRETT
Honey, of course. Enjoy this break.

They hug. Christine, Dina, Ally, Jason and Seth walk in.

CHRISTINE
Warner?

BLAIR
Guys, hey!

CHRISTINE
You ready to go home?

BLAIR
Yeah.

The group gathers all of Blair's stuff.

BLAIR
You want me to carry anything?

SETH
Yeah. How about-

ALLY
No.

They grab all the stuff and start to leave. Blair looks at Mrs. Garrett.

BLAIR
See you in two weeks.

Blair walks over to Mrs. Garrett and hugs her. She and her friends leave.

INT. BLAIR'S HOUSE -- DAY

Blair walks into her bedroom with her friends following close behind. Blair's room is about the size of a fairly large studio apartment. It is decorated in pink. Surrounding her room are paintings that were done by her and many pictures of her friends and family. Her bedroom has been decorated with balloons, flowers and stuffed animals. There's a giant sign above her desk that says, "WELCOME HOME BLAIR!"

BLAIR
Home, sweet home! My bed, how I've missed you.

Blair lies down on her bed.

JASON
How much stuff do you bring for two weeks?

SETH
Are you sure you're going back to Eastland?

DINA
They don't get it.

BLAIR
So sad.

DINA
She underpacked.

SETH
There must be eighty things of luggage her.

DINA
That's underpacking.

The phone rings.

ALLY
I'll get it.

Ally walks over to the phone and picks it up.

ALLY
Blair's room...hey!...yeah, I'm good. Hang on. It's Jo.

Blair smiles. She grabs the phone.

BLAIR
Hey, Jo.

JO
So Warner, what's going on?

BLAIR
Just walked in. You wanna come up tonight or tomorrow?

JO
Tomorrow.

BLAIR
How are things in the Bronx?

JO
You don't want to know.

BLAIR
Really. But you'll tell me later?

JO
Of course. My Bronx friends are here. Amy and Jessie.

BLAIR
Tell them I said hi. My Manhattan friends are here. And they're stealing my things. Seth, don't touch that!

SETH
I am not touching anything.

BLAIR
And don't wear my clothes.

SETH
You're a nut.

JO
See you later.

BLAIR
See you later.

JO
Bye.

Jo and Blair hang up. We cut to:

INT. POLNACHEK APARTMENT -- CONTINUOUS

Jo hangs up the phone. She looks at the kitchen door and walks into the kitchen. Around the table are Amy Dowell and Jessie Denner. Rose is making lunch.

JESSIE
So is Blair home?

JO
Yeah, she wants me to come over.

JESSIE
Are you going to?

JO
I think I should. Tomorrow. Tonight belongs to us.

AMY
You know, I keep remember when the four of us were little and I keep trying to think if Sophie had any signs-

JO
I've been trying to figure that out since it happened. If you can think of anything, let me know.

ROSE
She's angry.

JESSIE
There has to be more to it.

AMY
There really does. Is Blair that bad?

JO
No. I mean, she's tolerable.

ROSE
Jo.

JO
She's...she's Blair.

AMY
She's rich.

JESSIE
She probably throws it in everyone's face.

AMY
I hate that. Here you see money, I have lots and lots. Thank you.

JESSIE
I know. Well, Warner...Warner Textiles. I learned about it in one of those college courses I took. She's loaded.

AMY
Apparently, so was Sophie.

They all look at her.

AMY
Sorry. Sorry.

Jo and Jessie exchange a look. Jo cracks a smile.

JO
That was bad.

JESSIE
Really bad.

JO
Awful.

JESSIE
We shouldn't laugh.

Amy starts to laugh at them, followed by Jo and Jessie. Rose looks at them.

ROSE
Girls, please. No laughing. It's not the right time.

JO
You know what's sick?

AMY
What? That we were laughing at that?

JO
Yes, and that Blair would be too.

AMY
Really?

JO
No, she'd give you a look like she's angry that you said it. Like this.
(she imitates Blair's "look of death")
Followed by a little crack of a smile. Like she knows it's funny. But because of the nature of comment and the context, it would be wrong to laugh.

AMY
Sounds very staged.

JO
That's Blair. She plans her moves very carefully.

JESSIE
It's so bizarre. Here's the four of us...best friends. A gang of four and I-I-I can't comprehend why Sophie-

AMY
And you know what's even sadder, we used to consider her the stable one.

JESSIE
I know. We thought Jo would be the first to lose it, especially after-

JO
Hi, mom.

ROSE
After she what?

JESSIE
Nothing.

ROSE
So I'll talk to you later.

JO
Yep.

Jo looks at Jessie. She takes a crumpled up napkin and chucks it at her. Jessie laughs.

JO
Besides, I'm doing this alone. Do you know how angry that makes me? You two don't even have the decency to visit Sophie.

AMY
I know. It's just-I just, I can't. She changed so much when she went to Eastland.

JESSIE
I know. She was changing at P.S. 56 too. She was becoming withdrawn and stuff and I remember thinking that when she went to Eastland, it would be great for her. It did wonders for you.

JO
Thanks.

JESSIE
It did. I mean, you make fun of Blair and Tootie and Natalie, but they really have done wonders for your personality.

AMY
They gave you one....a better one.

Jo glares at her.

AMY
But we thought we could finally get our friend back. But-

JO
But when she was there, she went looking for crap to happen. I mean, people are mean. But she never stood up for herself. She took it...it was like she became this human punching bag.

AMY
And Blair?

JO
Is a snob. Plain and simple. But, I-I do consider her...a very good friend.

ROSE
Girls, I think you're trying to rationalize this whole thing. But she wasn't thinking rationally when she did it. So, it's impossible to apply any sort of rationalization where there is none.

AMY
But it would be so much easier if we could.

JESSIE
You're telling me.

Rose brings a plate of sandwiches to the table. The girls dig in. All begin to eat, silently.

INT. RESTAURANT -- NIGHT

Jason and Blair are sitting across from each other. They are both dressed very nicely. Jason lifts up his water glass.

JASON
I'd like to make a toast?

BLAIR
Yes?

Blair lifts up her glass.

JASON
To our first date.

BLAIR
To our first official date.

They clink and drink.

JASON
This would be so much more effective if we could drink.

BLAIR
Soon.

JASON
How's the studying?

BLAIR
It's a lot of work. I don't even want to contemplate what's waiting for me in Peekskill.

JASON
Don't. Have you been sleeping?

BLAIR
No. I'm afraid too. Does that make sense? I'm actually afraid.

JASON
Then what do you do at night?

BLAIR
Study, watch TV, talk to Jo or Natalie. Or anyone.

JASON
How are the Peekskill people?

BLAIR
Good. Nat's never home. Her mom says Nat is spending as little time as she can in the house.

JASON
Is she really popular?

BLAIR
She gets more calls than I do. Tootie calls everyday with updates from Washington and Jo...I'm worried about her. This must be so hard for. I can't even imagine.

JASON
I don't really feel all that bad. I should, cause it's your friend...but, she took you away or knew someone who almost did.

BLAIR
I know.

Carrie McDougal, a 34 year old woman, walks up to them.

CARRIE
Aren't you are Blair Warner?

Jason and Blair exchange looks. Blair smiles.

BLAIR
Why yes, I am. Charmed, I'm sure.

CARRIE
Carrie McDougal, New York Daily News. How does it feel to be portrayed a villain in the Peekskill shootings?

BLAIR
What?

JASON
Excuse me, we're on a date. Can you please leave us alone?

CARRIE
This will only take a minute, now Ms. Warner-

Suddenly a swarm of reporters begin to surround the table. They start to overwhelm Blair. She tries to smile and put up a front as the reporters seem to swarm on to her.

INT. BLAIR'S ROOM -- NIGHT

Blair walks into her bedroom. Jason follows closely behind. Blair is still in shock by what happened. She sits on her bed. Jason sits next to her. He holds her close to him. She starts to sob.

INT. RESTAURANT -- EVENING

It is March 26th, 1982. Blair, Tootie, Natalie, Jo, Jason, Seth, Christine, Ally and Dina are all sitting around a table and eating.

BLAIR
I'm telling you, I can't eat, I can't sleep. They call for interviews. Ordinarily, you know I'd love it but...some reporter called from Manteca, California asking how I felt when when people called me a bitch.

JO
They asked that?

BLAIR
I know. What was I gonna say? Yeah, I love it.

ALLY
This is horrible.

BLAIR
And where is Manteca?

NATALIE
It's a small town outside Sacramento.

BLAIR
Thanks.

NATALIE
Sorry.

BLAIR
I just...Carson mentioned me. I was so excited for Spring Break because I thought I could just get away and recover. But no. I can't go shopping without people...people ask to see my scars and people...why can't they leave me alone.

SETH
It'll be over soon.

BLAIR
Jo and I are testifying right when we get back to school. I have to defend myself? Why do I need to defend myself? I have to get up there and explain why I didn't deserve to be shot.

CHRISTINE
You know what, let's not discuss it tonight.

ALLY
Exactly, you're with your friends.

BLAIR
Right. Okay. I hope Sophie rots. I want to...you don't even want to know what I'd do if I saw her.

JO
Blair.

BLAIR
What?

JO
I think Christine is right. We shouldn't talk about it anymore. I'd rather not.

BLAIR
Cause it's about you?

JO
Yes, it is.

BLAIR
No, it's not. It's my life they wanna destroy!

JO
But it's my best friend.

BLAIR
I thought she wasn't your friend anymore.

JO
She isn't, but-

BLAIR
Besides, if anyone should be on trial it's you.

TOOTIE
Guys.

JO
What's that supposed to mean?

BLAIR
She gave you a warning.

JO
You know it wasn't definite. I told you that.

BLAIR
I don't believe you.

JO
Why are you trying to pick a fight with me?

BLAIR
You could've stopped it.

JO
With what?! I'm struggling through this by myself-

BLAIR
And I'm not struggling!? It's wonderful to know that the entire U.S. is making judgments on whether or not I'm a nice person!

ALLY
Jo, Blair. Come on.

NATALIE
Let them go.

TOOTIE
They need to fight and then they realize they're being stupid.

BLAIR
Shut up, Tootie!

JO
Don't yell at her.

JASON
Can we just eat?

BLAIR
Fine!

JO
I'm trying really hard to be nice to you! But you make it so difficult!

BLAIR
Oh, oh! I make it difficult? Who's the one who is friends with a killer?!

JO
Well, if you weren't such a snob-

BLAIR
I'm a snob?!

JO
Yes, you are.

ALLY
You guys!

SETH
Stop it!

CHRISTINE
Screaming isn't gonna help you.

TOOTIE
It's the way they deal with problems.

NATALIE
Welcome to our world.

ALLY
You two put Nat and Tootie through this all the time?

NATALIE
Yes.

BLAIR
Not all the time.

ALLY
Let's just eat, okay.

The group sits silently and eats.

INT. BLAIR'S ROOM -- LATER

Blair is resting. She looks at her phone and picks it up. She dials.

INT. POLNACHEK APARTMENT -- CONTINUOUS

Jo is sitting on the couch when the phone rings. She picks it up.

JO
Hello?

BLAIR
Jo, it's me. Don't hang up.

JO
I'm not going too.

BLAIR
I'm sorry about tonight. I'm just...I'm really...I'm not handling this well.

JO
I know. It's alright.

BLAIR
Funny, you'd think I'd love the attention.

JO
Yeah, well. I'm not handling it real well, either. I feel I'm so alone in this. I mean, Amy and Jessie are no help. They're dealing with it by forgetting Soph ever existed. And I can't-

BLAIR
Jo.

JO
I gotta go, Blair.

BLAIR
I'm sorry, Jo.

JO
Me too.

BLAIR
I just want it to end. I hate getting emotional.

JO
Yeah, well. I have to go.

BLAIR
Bye.

Jo and Blair hang up. Jo puts her head in her hands and slowly starts to cry. The phone rings again.

JO
Go away.

Jo wipes the tears from her face. She picks up the phone.

JO
Hello?

BLAIR
How are you, Jo?

JO
What? Blair-

BLAIR
Hey, you're going through hell too, aren't you?

Jo smiles.

JO
Yeah. It'll take all night.

BLAIR
I'm not going anywhere.

JO
Me neither. Alright, well-

BLAIR
What do you mean, you're all alone?

JO
Blair, you know what's gonna happen? The gap between the rich and the poor is gonna get bigger as we speak...I mean...

Jo continues.

INT. BLAIR'S ROOM -- MORNING

It is Sunday March 28th, 1982. Blair is packing her stuff up. She looks very good. There is a knock at the door. Monica walks in.

BLAIR
Hey, mom.

MONICA
You almost ready?

BLAIR
Uh-huh.

MONICA
I wish you would consider staying here.

BLAIR
Mom, I got a test tomorrow.

MONICA
You are very stubborn.

BLAIR
I started Eastland and I'm graduating from there.

MONICA
I know, and you're right. But, still.

Blair smiles.

BLAIR
Mom, thank you.

MONICA
I love you, sweetie. And I'm very proud to call you my daughter.

BLAIR
Even if I'm vicious.

MONICA
Especially then.

Blair laughs. Monica hugs her tightly. Blair hugs back.

MONICA
Come on, let's pack the car up.

BLAIR
Okay and I'm meeting everyone for breakfast and Jo's driving me, Nat and Tootie back to school.

MONICA
We'll get a driver to take all your stuff back to school-

BLAIR
Along with Jo's motorcycle.

MONICA
Already taken care of. Be safe, okay. If you need anything I will be up in Peekskill next week. I found an apartment.

Blair looks at her mom. She hugs her. Monica holds her daughter as tight as she can.

INT. DINER -- MORNING

The group is sitting around a table, eating pancakes and drinking coffee.

ALLY
Last chance, you wanna finish Manhattan with us?

BLAIR
No.

TOOTIE
She'd miss us too much.

CHRISTINE
How are you holding up?

BLAIR
I have no more grip on reality and have completely avoided any thoughts of what might be waiting for me when I get home.

ALLY
Are you gonna start working at the kitchen again?

BLAIR
Probably.

JO
You work?

NATALIE
Doubtful. We don't work with you

TOOTIE
We work for you

BLAIR
I make really good things.

DINA
I've had Blair's oatmeal. It's kinda crunchy. But it's good.

Tootie, Natalie and Jo cringe.

NATALIE
Ewww, Blair.

JO
I thought you had gotten over that.

BLAIR
Guys.

TOOTIE
Yuck.

DINA
Why is it crunchy?

ALLY
Did you like break a nail in there or something?
(off Tootie, Natalie and Jo's looks)
Ewww.

DINA
Gross. I ate your nails.

BLAIR
Noooo.

DINA
Then why is it crunchy?

Blair's friends look at her. She tries to think of something to say.

BLAIR
Well...well, um...it's crunchy cause...not my nails...uhhh....haven't I been interrogated enough. My goodness.

NATALIE
Smooth Warner.

They all continue to eat and talk.

INT. CAR -- DAY

Jo is driving. Blair is sitting in the passengers seat. Tootie and Natalie are in back.

TOOTIE
So your testimonies are coming up?

BLAIR
Can't wait.

JO
Jessie and Amy..they aren't visiting her. Amazing. The four of us grew up together and it's as if-

BLAIR
They don't want to associate with a killer?

JO
Yeah. Or me. They never even called to see how I was.

BLAIR
Maybe they're not good friends.

NATALIE
I know.

BLAIR
The way I look at it is in times of crisis, you realize who your true friends are. They're ones that sleep in your hospital room or stand by your side and make sure you don't flatline. They're the ones that eat a 2 pound box of chocolates while sitting on your bed and describing the taste of each one because you can't eat them yet.

Blair smiles knowingly at Jo. Jo gives her a look.

JO
So you like truffles?

BLAIR
Nuts and chews.

TOOTIE
In Washington, the trial is all they can talk about and my parents talk about the trial every night and they think it's a waste of tax money because it's an open and shut case and the only reason it's dragging on is because the fact of the matter is technically she's an adult but she's young and there's a debate going on about whether it's constitutional to give an 18 year old the death penalty.

BLAIR
I'll give it to her.

NATALIE
I bet you would. I would love to cover it.

BLAIR
Nat.

NATALIE
As a reporter. It would be a great story.

BLAIR
It is.

NATALIE
Can I admit something to you three?

BLAIR
Of course.

NATALIE
A few days after the shooting, I snuck into Eastland.

TOOTIE
Are you nuts?

NATALIE
I wanted a first hand account.

BLAIR
You could've been hurt.

JO
What was it like?

BLAIR
Jo.

JO
Tell us later.

BLAIR
Actually, you can tell us.

NATALIE
Are you sure?

BLAIR
Yeah.

Flash back:

INT. EASTLAND -- DAY

It is January of 1982. A few days after the school shootings. We open on the hallway of Eastland. We see images of girls walking down the halls. Blair, Tootie, Natalie and Jo in the midst of it all much like they were on the day of the shooting. We see the reality too. Blood on the walls, floors, everywhere. The images disappear. Natalie appears in the hall. She takes a deep breath and absorbs what she sees. She walks down the hall slowly, peering in classrooms. First she comes to two double doors.

INT. AUDITORIUM -- CONTINUOUS

She opens the doors and finds herself in the waiting area of the auditorium. She walks into the auditorium and looks around. There she pictures Tootie and Molly. She walks up to the stage. She looks behind the stage. What she sees, sickens her. There is blood covering the walls where students once signed their names. In big letters is "TOOTIE!" It is stained red from blood. Natalie stares at it.

INT. HALLWAY -- CONTINUOUS

Natalie exits the auditorium and finds herself back in the hall. She walks down the hall to another classroom. She opens the door and walks in.

INT. CLASSROOM -- CONTINUOUS

It is the history classroom. The desks are still in a circle. She imagines herself and Cindy. There is a folded up piece of paper underneath one of the desks. She leans down and picks it up. She unfolds it. It's the note that Cindy and Natalie had been passing to each other that day. She reads it and smiles. She folds it up and puts it in her pocket. She then takes it out and places it back under the desk she had been sitting in. She looks around. The notes from the lecture are still on the board and the desk has bullet holes in it. The windows are shattered. People left books behind. Some left notes. Natalie looks at some of the notes. She looks back to where she and Cindy had been sitting. Cindy had left her notes on her desk. Natalie looks at them. There are doodles all over it. Natalie smiles.

INT. HALLWAY -- CONTINUOUS

Natalie walks out into the hall and down towards another classroom. She stops infront of one and takes hold of the door knob. She opens the door and steps inside.

INT. CLASSROOM -- CONTINUOUS

It is the Calculus class. Natalie looks around. She sees a giant red stain on the floor. It's dried blood. Natalie covers her hand with her mouth. She looks next to her. There is a bullet hole next to her foot. There are still tests on the desks. By the red stain is Jo's shoe. Natalie picks it up. Natalie walks up and down each aisle. She spots each one of her friends tests. As she reaches the far left corner of the room, she sees a test with "Blair Warner" scribbled on top. She looks it over. She starts to cry. Blair wrote "14" on pretty much every answer. She looks up at the whole class. She imagines Nancy, Sue Ann, Blair and Jo. She sees them laughing in class.

INT. CAR -- CONTINUOUS

Jo, Tootie and Blair digest this.

NATALIE
I'll never forget it. Seeing Nancy's hands covered with Blair's blood. Seeing Tootie's name and the red. The bullet holes. Looked like a war zone. And you always think that in spite of everything, the one place on earth you can feel safe is school. But you can't feel safe at school. I was at home and hung out with all my friends and I was invited to parties and sleepovers and I went. But I didn't feel safe. I remember when I was 11, 12 and my friends and I would walk around New York. Aimlessly. Not a care in the world. Now, I look over my shoulder.

BLAIR
I know. I want that feeling again.

The group falls silent. They each seem to be in their own little world. There is a lot of tension in the car. Blair reaches down and starts to play with the radio. She stops on one station. We start to hear the beginning of "Hit Me With Your Best Shot." Blair looks up with just her eyes. She slowly lifts her head up to catch Jo staring at her. The two exchange a look. Natalie and Tootie exchange looks as well. All four slowly smile. The vocals of "Hit Me With Your Best Shot" begins.

BLAIR
I love this song.

They laugh. The tension seems to disappear. Blair turns it up. The song continues as Jo drives off.

To be continued....

*Hey, I wanted to try something new....I'm in the midst of writing the second half(there are 3 more parts) and I wanted your imput. What do you think should happen to Sophie? Are there any characters you'd like to see more of or less of? How about Jason and Blair? Should they stick together or break up? What about Jo and Blair? Their friendship is already tense at this point....what do you think should happen? Any ideas? I'm trying to hold like a viewer poll....to help determine the direction. We are now in late March, early April. The last three parts will be dealing with the last three months of school. What scenes are you really wanting to see? What don't you want to see? Any ideas?

[*Melissa*]

I think you accidently put this on the wrong board... this should be on the fanfic board

3 things...

1) This should prob. be on the FanFic board

2) How did my name (seth) get in this......(:lol

3) So far, nice work

You probably will get more feedback on the FanFic board though

[ssgoalie8]

this is great. i hope you post the next part soon. please
:: n knees and begging:::

------------------
-colleen-
**************
jinny: who in the hell are you?
***************
JO rocks!!!!!!!!
***************
J: i'm gonna loosen some teeth!
***************
AIM ssgoalie8 or nmkjo