Screenplay / Lets talk about Felicity 2

FADE IN:

INT. MASTER BEDROOM- SUNDAY NIGHT

We show an EXTREME CLOSE UP of Felicity’s eyes. Her expression is of extreme distress and hurt.

FADE TO BLACK.

We can HEAR a heavy body being dragged against the carpet…We hear sounds of Felicity grunting out of frustration and heavy breathing, followed by cries of mourning. Finally, we HEAR the sound of a door slamming.

FADE IN.

INT. HALLAWAY- NEXT

We PAN from around the corner of the hallway to FELICITY HUDSON, 16, braced against the basement door. She looks flushed and wiping tears from her face. She drops down to the floor.

FADE OUT.

FADE IN.

INT. VARIOUS BEDROOMS – SUNDAY NIGHT.

MR JEREMY COLE, 32, walks over to his table drawer and chucks a needle into the drawer and shuts it quickly.

SUMMER, 16, is lying in bed reading “Of mice and Men” then she looks up. We reveal her FATHER, 40, stumbling into her room drunk. He looks aggressive and shuts the door.
  
AUSTIN, 9, finishing his last sentence for his history homework then he shuts the book.

CARRIE, 13, brushes her hair in front of the mirror. She turns around and get into bed and falls asleep.

We see a picture of CARRIE, AUSTIN, FELICITY and MOM, 37. CLOSE UP of Carrie’s digital clock, showing 10:23pm then it DISSOLVE TO: 6:59 am. The time changes to 7:00 am.

INT. FELICITY BEDROOM-NEAT AND TIDY- MONDAY MORNING.

We TRANSITION for Carrie’s clock to Felicity’s alarm clock. The alarm clock is ringing. We pan around the room to show the neatness of the room and a dark coloured room.

We are looking down at a double bed from overhead: We see a black duvet covering Felicity’s face. We see her hand reach out of the duvet and slams snooze button.

INT. CORRIDOR- CONTINUOS.

We follow Austin, the brother, cautiously walking over to the bathroom, dressed for school.

We suddenly CUT TO: Carrie and follow her as she runs into the bathroom, half dressed for school. Then we stop and see her slamming the bathroom door.

Austin bangs on the door. He then runs to Felicity’s door and bangs twice.

AUSTIN
(desperation)
Felicity! Telly your smelly sister to get out of the bathroom! Carrie come on, I need to pee!

We see Carrie poking her head out, shouting.

CARRIE
(Annoyed)
I am not smelly, Austin!!

Then she slams the door.

INT. FELICITY BEDROOM-NEXT

We HEAR the alarm ringing again. OVERHEAD: We see Felicity ripping back her covers. We reveal she is fully dressed, wearing what she had on, on Sunday night

We see a CLOSE UP of her face looking lifeless. She turns off the alarm. She is walking across her bedroom to the door. She opens it. From Felicity POV: looks down to discover her brother peed himself.

Austin is cupping his crutch and looking really embarrassed.

INT. KITCHEN-MORNING- MOMENTS LATER.

Felicity puts on the radio, melodic music is playing. She is pouring milk into her cereal. Then we see Carrie running in looking annoyed, switches the radio to aggressive rock music.

We now see Felicity looking slightly annoyed. We then see Austin walks in looking embarrassed. His POV: Felicity is eating her cereal and Carrie is looking at him. He looks at Carrie with hate and switches the radio off.

CARRIE
(To her brother)
You piss me off.

Carrie smirks for a beat.

CARRIE
But it was funny seeing you pee yourself,again.

She laughs cruelly. Felicity looks blankly at her cereal.

AUSTIN
She just swore again. You always let her bully me, man.
(Directed to Carrie)
Don’t pick on me because I am 9…
(Directed to Felicity)
Are you even listening to me Fliss? Fliss!

Felicity looks at her brother with effort. Then stares right back to her cereal.

CARRIE
When is mom coming back? I need some money to go out with Wayne on Saturday. He is like, 100% hot, man…

Austin roll his eyes and shakes his head disapprovingly to Carrie. She mocks him with glee. He stares at her with scold for a beat.
AUSTIN
Fliss?
(He tugs her arm)
When is mom coming back, home?

Both siblings look at Felicity. She looks at them both with a fake smile.

FELICITY
(Deadpan)
Soon.

EXT.  NEIBOURHOOD STREET LEADING TO BUS STOP- MORNING.

Carrie, Austin and Felicity walks into FRAME, they are running late. They are quickly walking to the bus stop. They can see the yellow school bus coming. Austin is looking at his watch constantly. Carrie is putting on lip-gloss and fixing her hair. They reach to the bus stop with some time to spare.

EXT. BUS STOP- CONTINOUS.

FELICITY
(Deadened prep talk)
Austin, here is your money for your lunch and sit in the front of the bus-

AUSTIN
(Overlaps)
But I don’t-

FELICITY
(Overlaps)
And then maybe the bigger kids won’t pick on you-

AUSTIN
(Overlaps)
But you’re not-

FELICITY
(Interrupts)
Okay?

Austin sighs in defeat of trying to explain himself.

We see her leaning over to her brother, putting money into his shirt pocket. She then kisses him on the cheek but still without any feelings.

CARRIE
(Sarcasm)
Great job! He definitely won’t be picked on.

Felicity ignores Carrie and sticks her hand out to stop the bus. The school bus arrives at their stop and the door opens. Austin climbs on it.

INT. SCHOOL BUS- CONTINOUS.
The school children are misbehaving. Some bullies are chucking scrunched up paper at him. Austin POV: Some of the kids are covering the vacant seats next to them. Others are pulling faces at him.

He sits at the back by himself by the window. He looks out and waves to his sisters. Austin POV: Carrie waves back smirking.

EXT. BUS STOP- CONTINOUS.

The bus drives off.

FELICITY
Let’s go to school.

CARRIE
I’m cool, Wayne is taking me.

FELICITY
How?

CARRIE
On his bike, duh?

WAYNE, 14, cycles over to the bus stop. He suddenly brakes in front of them, showing off.

WAYNE
Hey ladies.

CARRIE
Hey Wayne.

WAYNE
Get on.

Carrie climbs onto the bike. She waves to Felicity as Wayne speeds off. Felicity watches her sister ride off.

FELICITY (V.O.)
This is my life everyday.

EXT. A SMALL TOWN – MORNING.

We’re FLYING over a small quiet town.

FELICITY (V.O.)
I live in a small town that is dead. Exhausted. Flat. Grey. Just ordinary.

We MOVE through the small town in a series of brief shots that define and establish our setting, from commercial town centre to an abandoned cemetery.

FELICITY (V.O.)
Folks there just…die (beat) and all of their memories are stuck there. I always thought of us as ghosts. You know, people that was left behind.

INT. MAIN SCHOOL HALLAWAY- NEXT.

A montage of two long STEADICAM shots in the main school hallway, students are walking to their lockers and classes.

FELICITY (V.O.)
My life is nothing like Carrie’s (beat) but more like Austin’s…  

We reveal Felicity is getting harassed by DANIELLE, 16, a sexy cheerleader with a mean streak. Danielle pushes Felicity against the locker.
FELICITY (V.O.)
I have nothing interesting to tell about my life (beat) and I don’t think it will ever change.

INT. CLASSROOM – LATE MORNING

It is a psychology class. Class looks bored except for Felicity, who is smiling and gazing at the blackboard.

FELICITY (V.O.)
Psychology, my favourite class… I don’t know why. Actually, I think I like all of my classes, even P.E…

We reveal Mr Cole, sitting on his desk. Behind him on the blackboard it reads: WHAT CAN WE LEARN FROM PSYCHOLOGY?

FELICITY (V.O.)
Mr Cole loves psychology. Today is his last day (beat) I’m gonna miss him.

MR COLE
What is the one thing you have learnt for the last couple of months I have taught you?

There is silence. Mr Cole scans the room.

MR COLE
Anybody? (beat) What about you Mr. Miller?

Mr Miller just ignores him, and start to look around.

MR COLE
Great…So I’ve taught you guys nothing.

He turns around to wipe the board.

FELICITY
Sir…

Mr Cole turns around. He smiles at her as he gestures for her to speak.

FELICITY
(Shy)
Ah, uhm, you have taught me that…  that I have some kind of control (beat) over what I allow myself to become. That the greatest truth or conflict we all face in life (beat)it happens from within, not on the outside… I’m sorry.

MR COLE
Why are you sorry? If I have taught… or even touched one of you guys, my job here is done…
As you know, uhm, I am leaving today
(jokingly)
but try not to cry.

Some students chuckle.

MR COLE
(Cheery)
Well that we have finished for today.
(He looks ay his watch)
It seems that we have couple of minutes left sooo let us have some fun.

Slow motion. Class laughs and scream with excitement. All except for Felicity. She stares at him with tender love for him.

FELICITY (V.O.)
I think I was in love with him all of this time (beat) and only now I feel liberated to say that.

He stares back at her with a tender smile. A tear streams down her face.

INT. SCHOOL HALL WAY- LUNCH- MIDDAY.

Bell rings and the kids run out of their classroom and flood into the canteen. Felicity is been pushed aside. Her books fall out of her hand; she stoops down to pick it up and is pushed over by Danielle. She gets up and is surrounded by Danielle’s two best friends, MARIA, 16, and KELLY, 16.

DANIELLE
Did I tell you to get up? Get back down and bark like a dog!

Felicity hesitates but then obeys without any fuss.

FELICITY
(Quietly)
Woof! Woof!

She then stops and looks up around her. Other students are watching.

KELLY
Are you deaf? Do you need me to sign language, dummy?

Kelly’s middle finger points up and is pushed in front of her face and then it is pointed downwards to the ground. Felicity gets down on all fours and barks like a dog.

FELICITY
(Louder)
Woof! Woof! Woof!

Everyone laughs at her but she doesn’t look humiliated but instead, impassive.

DANIELLE
You are so PATHETIC! Don’t even think of getting up.

Danielle, Kelly and Maria walk off. Felicity is still barking. Danielle looks back and smiles. They walk through the canteen doors.

INT. CLASSROOM- LUNCH- MIDDAY

Mr Cole is wiping the blackboard and he begins to hear the loud laughing from the hallway. He stops, and walks towards the door. He walks out of the classroom.

EXT. SCHOOL CLASSROOM-LUNCH- MIDDAY.

Mr Cole quickly pushes students aside, everyone rushes into the canteen. Felicity stops barking and begins to cry when she realises that Mr Cole can see her and sees pity in his eyes for her. He helps her up.

MR COLE
Kids, they can be so cruel. Are you okay?

She nods her head. She quickly turns her face and wipes her tears away. She turns back and has a big fake smile on her face.

FELICITY
I am fine. Thanks. I better go and have my lunch…Its okay sir, you won’t be here any longer…so-

Mr COLE
(Interrupts)
That isn’t the point! No-one has the right to make you feel like you deserve this. I’m going to talk to the principle. If it’s the last thing I do. Besides I know what it feels like.

He gives her a sympathetic smile.

FELICITY
I’m sorry. (She looks down). Please don’t get involve.

She looks into his eyes big brown eyes.

MR COLE
(Shocked)
What? What I just witnessed-

FELICITY
(Interrupts)
I don’t need your sympathy. I need a friend…and you can’t be that…

She shyly looks away.

FELICITY
Anyways, I am used to it and if you complain, it will only get worse. Thanks for rescuing me though.

She wears a real smile on her face now.

MR COLE
Any-time Fliss. See you this afternoon.

She still has a big smile on her face as she walks through the canteen doors.

She walks (nearly floating) to her table. She waves at Summer.

FELICITY (V.O.)
Life felt great again. Well… I lie; it’s never been great but I felt different. Mr Cole was on my side. Mr Cole touched my hand, and we conversed…That’s Summer. She’s at the bottom of food chain even though she is so pretty. I guess it’s because of.

JOCK #1
(Waving)
Danielle!

JOCK #2
I sooo would love to do her, man.

Daniel walks over to the cheerleaders table with so much sex appeal. Touching her hair and pouting.

Felicity is staring at Danielle with longing to be like her. Felicity sits down opposite Summer.

SUMMER
Hey miss stare-a-lot. Earth to Felicity!!!
(Mimicking a walky talky). “We have lost all contact”... Fliss!

FELICITY
He called me that!

Now looking at Summer.

SUMMER
Who?

FELICITY
Mr Cole.

SUMMER
When?

FELICITY
When I was… (Looks embarrassed). Just now.

SUMMER
Do you like him?

Felicity looks down and starts tearing the cling film around her sandwich, from her packed lunch in her bag.

SUMMER
You know that you can never be with him and he doesn’t even love you.

Summer waits to detect a tears or any emotion from Felicity.

FELICITY
(Composed)
Yeah. Well, he is leaving today.

SUMMER
(Disappointed)
I heard.
(Looks across to Danielle)
Look at Danielle! She thinks she is so hot. Slut!
(directed to Felicity)
Sorry.
(Calmly)
Get it together Summer.

(Irate)
Why is she staring over at us?            

FELICITY
(Inanimate)
She is not staring at us. Just eat your lunch.

SUMMER
(Ranting)
Danielle is like the queen bee and we’re all her slaves that sacrifice our survival to let that tramp become more powerful, while we suffer the cost (beat). It’s not right, man.

FELICITY
(Unconvincing)
Things will have to (beat) get better. You’ll see.

SUMMER
(Ranting)
Yeah?! You would think that’s the natural order of things but it’s not. I mean, this world is an oxy-moron. Despite, all the global warming, this world is getting colder, and the people are becoming more cold-hearted. I mean-

FELICITY
(Overlaps)
Summer-

SUMMER
(Interupts)
Don’t summer me! Do something with your life or just die. Because end of the day, no else is going to care (deadpan). Take me for example, my dad is an alcoholic but it doesn’t mean I’ll become one. You know why? ‘Cause I want to do something with my life. I’m going to follow in my uncle’s footsteps and become a lawyer, you know? (Beat) What about you?

FELICITY
I don’t know (beat) be a nurse?

Felicity looks across the canteen and spots JONATHAN, 17, staring at her with intensity.

FELICITY
(Shyly pointing)
Who is that at the back table?

Summer turns around but sees no-one she is pointing to. Felicity looks baffled.

INT. CLASSROOM- AFTERNOON.

English class. Time on the CLOCK is 2:58. Felicity is looking at Mr Cole. Everyone else is finishing off their reading in silence. The 3 o’clock bell rings. Everyone packs up and starts to leave.

MR COLE
Enjoy the rest of the term and remember that summer vacation is around the corner. Good luck with whatever you do guys.

The class is emptying and Felicity is last to leave her desk. She walks across to Mr cole’s desk, where he sitting.

MR COLE
Miss Hudson, I really shouldn’t say this but (beat) you are my favourite student.

FELICITY
You are my favourite teacher. We’ll miss your classes.

MR COLE
I’ll miss this place too. You know Miss Hudson; you can do anything you put your mind to.

FELICITY
Please call me Fliss, like you did at lunchtime? (beat)Thanks again for everything Mr Cole.

MR COLE
Since formality is not longer separating us, call me Jeremy.

FELICITY
(Delightfully)
Okay… Jeremy.

Mr Cole stands up and puts his hand out for a hand shake. Felicity takes her hand and shakes his. They look at each other and then shyly smile. Felicity quickly leaves the class room.

EXT. OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL- MID AFTERNOON.

She hides behind the tree near the school fence and watches Mr Cole walk to his car. He looks around at the school one last time. He gets into his silver BMW car and drives off.

EXT. STREET IN FRONT OF FELICITYS HOUSE- LATE AFTERNOON

Felicity is walking home. She reaches her house and stops. Looks up and stares at her mother’s bedroom WINDOW and then enters in.

INT. DOWNSTAIRS IN THE HOUSE- LATE AFTERNOON

Austin bursts in and shuts the door. He rushes pass her and runs up the stairs into his bedroom and slams his bedroom door. Felicity walks to the kitchen and slumps her bag on the kitchen table then starts taking out pots to cook dinner.

EXT. OUTSIDE HER FRONT DOOR- MOMENTS LATER

Wayne drops Carrie outside of her gate.

CARRIE        
Thanks Wayne.

WAYNE
It’s cool.

CARRIE  
You can walk me to my door if you want.

WAYNE
Which door? Your bedroom door?

CARRIE
You’re so funny.

WAYNE
I know. Let me just park my bike.

They walk to the front door. They face each other. They kiss.

CARRIE
See you tomorrow. Bye.

WAYNE
Yeah. Bye.

Wayne walks off with his bike. Carrie waves then walks in.

INT. HALLWAY- NEXT

She locks the door and braces against it. She touches her lips and closes her eyes.
Austin sneaks downstairs and scares Carrie.

AUSTIN
Booh!!

Carrie pushes Austin out of the way and runs to kitchen. Carrie takes her jacket and bag off and pushes it underneath the kitchen table. Carrie goes to the refrigerator and takes out a drink. She is smiling as she closes the door. Felicity notices her smiling.

FELICITY
(Inquisitively)
What?

CARRIE
(Smiling)
What?!

FELICITY
You look (beat) what’s the word? Happy.

CARRIE
I don’t know what you are talking about. I am always happy.

FELICITY
Right. If you don’t want to talk about it, it’s cool. Dinner is nearly finished.

CARRIE
(Excitingly)
Something amazing just happened. It’s a like, uhm, a life altering experience.

FELICITY
(Inquisitively)
You’re not pregnant, right?!

Austin butts in.

AUSTIN
(Mortified expression)
Close. I just saw Carrie smooching Wayne outside, where all the neighbours could see.

CARRIE
Shut up! You are such a little runt!

FELICITY
That is so sweet. Your first kiss…I hope?

CARRIE
Fliss…A girl never kiss and tells.

AUSTIN
Yeah but Wayne will.

He starts laughing to himself. They both watch him with an expression like ‘is he okay’.

FELICITY
Make yourself useful Austin and help set the table.

AUSTIN
(Annoyed)
Fine. Whatever.

Austin walks out of the kitchen and into the hallway.

INT. HALLWAY-NEXT

He notices that the answering machine light is flashing and presses the button. It begins to play.

Felicity and Carrie runs out to the hallway to hear the message.

MOM
(Exhausted)
Hey kids (beat) I am so sorry I can’t be there at home with my babies. Mama is still away (beat) and unfortunately I have to be gone for awhile. I’ve left some money in the usual place. And Fliss make sure Austin and Carrie eat something. I hope, I hope you guys don’t think I am a bad parent.
(Whispers)
O God.
(Tearfully)
I love you babies. Mama loves you. Bye.

AUSTIN
(Disappointed)
Oh man!

CARRIE
Oh well.

FELICITY
(Authoritative)
Let’s eat. You heard mom.

INT. DINING ROOM- EVENING- MOMENTS LATER

Everyone prepares the table and arranges the food into the dining room.

Everyone sits down around the table.

CARRIE
Who’s gonna say grace?

AUSTIN
I will!
(He prays)
Our father, thank you for what you have provided and may it bless our bodies. And Jesus please take care of mommy. Amen.

FELICITY
That was beautiful. Let’s eat some food.

CARRIE
It looks and smells great. Mmm.

INT. LIVING ROOM- NIGHT

Austin is sleeping on the floor and Carrie is sleeping on the sofa, while Felicity is half asleep with the television on. She turns off the television and wakes up Carrie. Carrie picks up Austin. They turn off the downstairs lights and walk up the stairs.

INT. UPSTAIRS- MOMENTS LATER

Carrie tucks Austin into his bed and kisses him, while Felicity watches from the doorway.

Carrie gestures good night and enters her room.

INT. MASTER BEDROOM- NEXT

Felicity walks into her mother’s room and turns on the light. She looks around at her mother’s pictures and things.

She walks to the wardrobe and opens it. She runs her fingers through the bright coloured clothes. She closes the wardrobe again and turns to her mother’s bed side table. She picks up a beautiful picture of her mother and kisses it.

She finally closes the curtain, walks out of the room and switches the lights off.

FADE OUT.  

FADE IN.

EXT. BUS STOP – TUESDAY MORNING.

They are at the bus stop. Bus arrives, Austin gets on it. Wayne picks up Carrie, she waves goodbye. Felicity looks at her watch and begins to walk to school.

Felicity arrives at the pedestrian crossing. Jonathan arrives and stops besides her. She looks up at him and he catches her stare. They both look away and cross over the street.

EXT. EN ROUTE TO SCHOOL – MOMENTS LATER.

SUMMER
(Shouting)
Fliss! Fliss! Felicity!!

Summer runs behind Felicity. She catches up and playfully shoves her along.

SUMMER
(Breathless)
Hey.

FELICITY
Hey. How was your evening?

SUMMER
Great (beat)! Well, ‘til my-good-for-nothing-piece-of-crap father stumbled into my room last night. He was so out of it. He punched me in my arm and slapped me.

Summer lifts up her t-shirt sleeve quickly to show a purple bruise.

SUMMER
But (beat) I gave as good as I got, man. He’s always fucking violent.

FELICITY
(Uncomfortable)
That’s messed up.

SUMMER
(Pleased)
I know. But this morning, I thought that I would teach him a lesson.

FELICITY
(Distressingly)
What did you do, Summer?!

SUMMER
I hid his car keys and smashed his sticky booze.

FELICITY
Then what happened?

SUMMER
(Enthusiastic)
He totally loses his mind!

FELICITY
(Uneasy feeling)
Ssh! Keep down will you? People have ears around here.

Summer ignores her, she looks determined to tell her story.
SUMMER
Anyways, he was searching everywhere like a mad man. Then he runs into the kitchen and saw what I did and starts to cry like a baby. He then licks the floor! You know where I smashed his bottles of booze? (beat)The idiot cuts his tongue on broken pieces of glass. Mom drove him to the hospital.
(Serious)
It’s a shame he didn’t bleed to death.

FELICITY
Whoah! That’s disturbing. Can we change the subject?

SUMMER
(Bored)
Sure, whatever. Sooo (sighs). How will you cope today without Mr knight-of-shining armour?

FELICITY
Oh look we’re at school.

EXT. OUTSIDE SCHOOL- MOMENTS LATER

The bell rings. All the students begin to enter the school main entrance.

SUMMER
Oh, that’s the bell! See you lunch as usual!

FELICITY
Cool.

SUMMER
Bye!

Felicity is left by herself. She rushes into the main entrance but stops.

INT. SCHOOL HALL- NEXT

She looks ahead into the empty long hallway.

FELICITY (V.O.)
I don’t know how I coped without my knight-of-shining armour. Without him, I was nothing but totally vulnerable.

(MONTAGE OF HER FIRST DAY WITHOUT MR COLE showing what she talking about)

My first day without Mr Cole was hard. I just couldn’t concentrate in my classes. Danielle picked on me even more. Summer’s usual crazy rants had diminished into silence. I couldn’t stop crying every time I saw something that reminded me of Mr Cole…My sense of purpose seemed to be lost in the sea of my new found confusion.

INT. SCHOOL HALLWAY- AFTERNOON.

School bell rings. Felicity looks weary and broken spirited. Everyone is fast forwarded and she is frozen still. She starts walking towards the school main entrance.

FADES OUT.

FADE IN.

INT. FELICITY’S HOUSE DOWNSTAIRS- LATE AFTERNOON.

Carrie and Austin are in the kitchen. Felicity notices that the answering machine light is flashing. She plays the message. It’s her headmistress.

MRS HATHAWAY
Hello Mrs Hudson. This is Mrs Hathaway, Felicity’s principle. I am calling to air my concerns about Felicity. I have had a report handed in by her former teacher about an incident that happened recently. If it is possible to meet soon please ring the school.

FELICITY
Oh crap.  

She walks into the kitchen. Carrie is cooking. Austin has his head resting on his arms.

CARRIE
Hey Fliss. I am cooking “Spaghetti Bolognesa” (in an Italian accent). Its Wayne’s favourite.

FELICITY
(Tired)
That sounds interesting. What’s wrong Austin?

Austin begins to whimper.

FELICITY
Austin?

CARRIE
Well… Austin got beaten up today. Real bad.

Felicity stoops besides Austin and lifts his head up.

Austin’s face is dirty and has a grazed cheek. He looks at her and starts crying.

AUSTIN
It hurts.

She hugs him.

FELICITY
Ssshh. It’s okay. (Crying) I am sorry. I am so sorry. I never wanted you to go through what I went through. Those assholes!! Sorry baby brother.

Austin begins to cry louder.

AUSTIN
(Tearfully)
I want my mommy. She wouldn’t let this happen to me. I hate you!

Austin pulls away and runs upstairs. Felicity sits in his seat. Carrie joins her around the table.

CARRIE
He doesn’t mean that.

FELICITY
I am not hungry. Make sure your brother eats and does his homework.

CARRIE
What?! But I cooked-

FELICITY
(Interrupts)
I haven’t got the energy right now. I am tired.

Felicity walks upstairs.

INT. FELICITY’S BEDROOM- NIGHT.

Felicity pulls her hair in to a ponytail and reveals a bruise near to her ear, caused by Danielle. She takes her psychology school books out of her bag and starts to do her homework but discontinues. She stares at the Psychology books and starts to cry.

She turns off the lights and lie on top of her bed. She looks at the window and starts to convulse with pain and cries.

FADE OUT.

FADE IN.

EXT. BUS STOP- WEDNESDAY MORNING.

Felicity sees her school bus but doesn’t get on. She crosses the road and catches the bus into town.

She is on the bus and watching people walk pass shops and cafes. She sees a wedding gathering outside a church. She sees a teenage couple kissing on the corner of the side walk. And a mom with three children skipping into a shop.

Felicity gets off outside a row of shops. She walks into a travelling shop.

INT. TRAVELLING SHOP- MORNING.

An Asian shop owner greets her. She looks nervous and so smiles back. She is wondering around the shop slowly.

An Asian shop assistant approaches her.

SHOP ASSTISTANT
‘Ello madam. Are you int’rested in anythin’ so far? Do you need my assistance?

FELICITY
Uhm…No. No thanks…Yes. I am going away. I need a cheap but reliable suitcase.

SHOP ASSTISTANT
Are you travellin’ towards anywhere nice?

FELICITY
I don’t know.

SHOP ASSTISTANT
That’s gud. It will be an opportunity to go and meet strange and wondervul people. Please, follow me.

Felicity follows him to the suitcase section. She points to a small brown suitcase.

She pays for it and thanks the shop assistant.

INT. DELI CAFÉ- MORNING.

She goes into a small old fashion family deli café. She looks for the ladies toilet. She finds it at the back and waits for a lady to leave the single toilet. She smiles nervously and rushes in.

INT. TOILET.

She quickly takes of her rucksack and opens it to reveal some of her clothes. She transfers her clothes into the suitcase. She then dumps the rucksack into the toilet bin.

She walks out.

INT. DELI CAFÉ.

Felicity walks towards the counter and looks at the cakes on display. She points to a chocolate cake slice and pays for it. She finds a seat near the shop window and starts to eat her cake. She takes out a bus map and looks at different place names. She looks around to make sure no one is suspicious of her.

She finishes her cake and leaves. She walks to the bus stop.

EXT. BUS STOP- MOMENTS LATER.

She takes a seat on a bench and an OLD MAN, 77, sits next to her. He turns to her and smiles.

OLD MAN
Goin’ somewhere naice I hope.

She looks at him but says nothing.

OLD MAN
That’s faine. No need to talk to me. Yo’ mama raised you right.

She looks straight ahead.

OLD MAN
All ma life I’ve bin working and not once had a vacation. It’s good to see dem times have changed. I’m goin’ to see ma grandsons. One is 4yrs old; he’s a big son of gun. Hahaha!

There is a sudden silence between them. Felicity seems intrigued by the old man.

FELICITY
Wa, what about your other grandson? You said you had two.

OLD MAN
(Confused)
What? Who are you?

The Old man looks confused. (Dead pan) He turns to her again.

OLD MAN
Goin’ somewhere naice I hope. Yep, I’m waitin’ for da bus to take me to da station.

Felicity looks confused.

OLD MAN
That’s faine. No need to talk to me. Yo’ mama raised you right.

The bus arrives and she gets on it. Felicity takes out change to pay her bus fare. She sits near the window. The bus drives away. She stares at the old man.

EXT. OUTSIDE BUS STATION-LATE AFTERNOON.

Bus pulls up outside the bus station and everyone gets off.

INT. INSIDE BUS STATION.

Felicity walks inside and goes to the ticket counter.

FELICITY
I would like to buy a ticket to the nearest city, please.

EXT. OUTSIDE BUS STATION- LATE AFTERNOON.

Felicity hugs her small brown suitcase. Buses are stopping and passing in-front of her. Time passes by.  

Felicity looks at her watch and stands up to turn around and look at the timetable chart.  She takes out her ticket and look at the time then looks across to find the bus arrival time. She can’t find it and so she turns around in a huff.

A bus drives pass in-front of her and she sees Jonathan.

JONATHAN
Hello.

FELICITY
Hey. What are you doing here?

JONATHAN
This is where I hang out.

FELICITY
Not convincing. I can’t imagine a guy like you hanging out here.

JONATHAN
I come here to watch people go somewhere else. I know it sounds stupid but I do.

FELICITY
Yeah, sure do.

JONATHAN
I do… I imagine them to go different places where there are going to have the time of their lives. What really intrigues me is to see people sad, happy, or crying as they arrive and as they depart (sigh). Well, what are you doing here?

FELICITY
Interesting.
(An ackward beat.)
Who are you? I don’t mean to sound rude but-

JONHATHAN
Jonathan.

FELICITY
Jonathan what?

JONATHAN
Whatever you want it to be?

FELICITY
Right…Therefore, I will call you Swayze. After Patrick Swayze! Hahaha! Nice to meet you Jonathan Swayze.

Puts her hands out for a hand shake.

FELICITY
My name is-

JONATHAN
Felicity…

He shakes her hand.

JONATHAN
Felicity Hudson.

FELICITY
(Thrown back)
Huh!

JONATHAN
I’ve seen you around.

FELICITY
Well, thanks for noticing. To answer your question…I don’t know where I am going, just getting away.

JONATHAN
What about home?  

FELICITY
They won’t miss me…

JONATHAN
Who’s they?

FELICITY
Uhm, well, I have a little sister called Carrie. She is the opposite of me.

JONATHAN
What does that mean?

FELICITY
She is so so pretty, popular and confident in everything. I always say there is no point being jealous of my sister.

JONATHAN
What? You’re pretty. No, you’re beautiful… in an unconventional way.

FELICITY
(Caught off guard)
Okay…I also have a little brother he’s called Austin. He and I are so similar; he’s a clever kid but is always picked on.

JONATHAN
That’s a shame.

FELICITY
Where is your home?

JONATHAN
Good question (beat). I was born and raised in Brooklyn but I’ve (beat) moved a couple of times for the last five years.

FELICITY
Why?

                JONATHAN
Well, because my dad is in the army. Right now, he’s in Afghanistan.

FELICITY
How about your mom?

                JONATHAN
My mom died pretty soon after we left New York (beat). I’ve been shipped from family to family.

                FELICITY
Sorry. I didn’t meant to-

JONATHAN
(Interrupts)
Don’t worry about it, you won’t be the first to ask and you won’t be the last. Everywhere I go just seems to look the same, with their shops, streets and buildings.

FELICITY
Really? I thought everywhere would be (beat) I don’t know, different?

JONATHAN
Maybe, just to me. Even the people start to look the same too. All of it just reminds me I miss home. Anyways, I was running out of places to stay until my Aunt took pity on me and sent for me. Hence, I am in this little town.

FELICITY
If you had a choice where would you go?

JONATHAN
I don’t know. I’ve always lived in cold or overcrowding places. I would prefer somewhere that is hot and has a coast. I think California would be nice. You know, with the sun, sand, surf and Hollywood. Hahaha!...What time is your bus?

FELICITY
To be honest, I don’t know.

She turns to the timetable and takes out her ticket from her coat pocket. She looks confused and frustrated.

JONATHAN
Need any help? I could help you.

FELICITY
(Frustration)
No it’s okay… AHHH. I give up. I’ve been waiting all afternoon.

JONATHAN
Well, I know that buses stop running at 5 o’clock.

FELICITY
Are you sure?

JONATHAN
It’s now five thirty. I think you might have missed your bus.

FELICITY
No. No. I’ve looked for the buses that were suppose to go to my destination, all day. Here (hands him the ticket), look for yourself!

Jonathan looks at the ticket then at the timetable. He points to the table.

JONATHAN
See. Your bus was at four twenty three. What are you gonna do now?

FELICITY
I don’t know. I was looking forward to leave this forsaken town. I hate it here! It’s stupid! My life is so stupid. I can’t do anything right.

JONATHAN
You can always go home.

FELICITY
I hate there! My brother hates me and my sister thinks I’m a joke. They don’t think I can be there for them, you know?

JONATHAN
Can’t you just ask your mom to pick you up?

FELICITY
My mother is- I have no money. I spent everything on this stupid ticket and this suitcase.

JONATHAN
Well I can take you home or where ever you want to go?

FELICITY
Why?

She stoops down to sit in the dirt.

JONATHAN
I don’t understand your question.

FELICITY
Why do you want to help me? I’ll walk.

JONATHAN
Are you crazy? You-

FELICITY
Yes! I am crazy. I am fed up. I am tired….Bye.

He stretches out his hand to help her up.

JONATHAN
Come with me. I have a motorbike. I can take you anywhere. Look, I’m not going to leave you here alone. I might be stranger but I’m not worse than any of these people around here. Trust me.

She takes his hand and gets up. She takes her suitcase and looks at him.

FELICITY
Thanks… I don’t trust you but I need a ride.

JONATHAN
That’s cool (smiles).

Felicity smiles at him. It begins to rain heavy. They both look up.

JONATHAN
My motor is parked on the opposite side, follow me. Come on.

They run through rain to Jonathan’s motorbike. Felicity puts the suitcase at the back and jumps on. Jonathan gets on.

JONATHAN
Let’s Go!

They ride off.

FADE OUT.

FADE IN.

EXT. OUTSIDE FRLICITY’S HOUSE- NIGHT TIME.

Jonathan and Felicity are standing outside Felicity front door. It is still raining.

FELICITY
Thanks. I had a good time at the ice cream parlour…

Jonathan stares at her with intensity. Felicity for the first time has a warmth glow about her.

JONATHAN
Anytime. Will I see you at school tomorrow?

FELICITY
Why?

JONATHAN
I just want to see you again, that’s all.

FELICITY
Since my escape plan is spoiled, why not.

JONATHAN
Do you believe in fate? I mean do you think maybe all of this happened for a reason? How we met?

FELICITY
You ask a lot of questions.

They both laugh. They stare into each other eyes. Jonathan walks off in the rain.
FELICITY
Jonathan. I didn’t believe until now. I’m glad we finally met.

Jonathan runs back to her

JONATHAN
Can I kiss you?

FELICITY
I won’t stop you.

He kisses her passionately. They hug like they never want to let go.

FELICITY
See you tomorrow my-knight-in-shining armour.

Jonathan looks happy and runs to his bike. She walks in and shuts the door.

INT. HALL WAY.

Felicity hides the suitcase behind coats hanging from a stand. Austin sitting at the top of the stairs.

AUSTIN
Where have you been?

FELICITY
I hope you’ve done your homework.

AUSTIN
Where have you been?!

Felicity walks into the living room. Austin runs downstairs and follows her inside.

FELICITY
What!

AUSTIN
I have a message for you from school. The lady says that she wants you in the principle’s office in the morning as soon as you get in… Are you okay?

Felicity walks over to the sofa and sits down.

FELICITY
How was today?

AUSTIN
Good. Carrie cooked and helped with my book review. I’m worried about you sis. I heard you last night. I’m sorry for what I said.

FELICITY
Come. Sit down next to me. Let’s see your cheek.

Austin walks over and shows his cheek. He then hugs her.

AUSTIN
I’m sorry I made you cry.

FELICITY
You didn’t make me cry. Sometimes, we cry because when we have nothing else left to express or say, tears become more than tears. They verbalise our heartaches and anguish, kiddo. Where is Carrie?

AUSTIN
In her room … with a friend.

FELICITY
Well it’s 8 o’clock so get ready for bed.

Austin leaves the sofa and heads for the door. At the door he stops and turns to felicity.

AUSTIN
Why is the cellar door locked?

FELICITY
I don’t know. Night.

INT.  BATHROOM- MOMENTS LATER.

Felicity washes her face and brushes her teeth. Suddenly she hears a boy’s voice. She looks puzzled. Then she hears loud music coming from Carrie’s bedroom.

Felicity rinses her mouth and turn off the bathroom’s light.

INT. CORRIDER- CONTINOUS.

Felicity slowly walks to Carrie’s bedroom. She hears laughter and strange noises. She opens the door to find Wayne lying on top of Carrie.

INT. CARRIE’S BEDROOM- CONTINOUS.

Felicity looks shocked. The couple looks scared and embarrassed. Wayne is topless and Carrie is in her underwear.

FELICITY
What’s going on? I said what the hell is going on?

WAYNE
I am so sorry.

Felicity walks into the room calmly, trying to stay composed.

FELICITY
Wayne, Get out… You’re both 13 for crying out loud.

WAYNE
Sorry.

Wayne hurries to put on his t-shirt and Carrie puts on her gown.

CARRIE
You just can’t walk in here! What Wayne and I do behind close doors is none of your business.

WAYNE
This is my cue for exit.

CARRIE
What?! (Directed to Wayne.)

FELICITY
What do you mean I can’t walk in here?! Please leave Wayne.

Wayne gets his backpack at the bedroom door.

CARRIE
No! This is my room, my body and my bed. Wayne stay. Who do you think you are? (Directed to Felicity)

Carrie marches over to Felicity.
FELICITY
Who do you think you are? Mom never raised you as a slut. Look at you! ...Get dressed.

Wayne slips pass both of them. Carrie follows him onto the stairs.

CARRIE
Where you’re going? Don’t leave because of her. Stay… I know you want to.

WAYNE
Well, I should go. Carrie, see you around sometime.

Wayne runs down the stairs. Carrie follows quickly. Felicity run downstairs after Carrie.

INT. FOYER- CONTINUOS.

FELICITY
Come back! Let him go! What were you thinking?!

Felicity crabs her arm. Wayne stops at the door to watch.

FELICITY
(Breathless)
What-were you-thinking? ... Answer me.

Carrie looks at her with defiance.

CARRIE
Let go! You have no right!

Wayne walks through the front door and leaves.

CARRIE
Wayne! Look what you’ve done (directed to Felicity).

FELICITY
What’s wrong with you! This is not you. I don’t understand you. What are you doing? Did I miss something? ...Carrie please, talk to me.

CARRIE
Let. Go. Of me.

Felicity lets go of Carrie’s arm.

CARRIE
What’s wrong with you! You can’t treat me like a kid.

FELICITY
(Furious)
How am I suppose to talk to you? I catch you in bed with Wayne. You’re 13 years old! Look at yourself! Look at yourself!

Felicity forces Carrie in front of full-length mirror in the foyer. They both stand in front of their reflection breathless. Both look emotional and eyes are electric.

Felicity catches her facial expression in the mirror, realising she was losing her compose. She steps back and turns away from Carrie and the mirror.

FELICITY
(Shaky voice)
You (beat) are a little girl, you’re thirteen. What do you know about relationships?

Carries turns around, marches over to Felicity and faces her.

CARRIE
(Furious)
What do you know about relationships?! I don’t know that much but I know more than you! I don’t see you with anybody?

Felicity pauses, she looks hurt. Felicity grabs Carrie’s shoulders and slaps her hard across the face.

Carrie scratches Felicity’s neck and stamps on Felicity’s foot. Felicity screams in pain and pushes Carrie into the coat rack.

Carrie lands beside the suitcase and the ticket falls onto Carrie’s lap from Felicity’s coat pocket. Carries rises up to her feet while reading the ticket.

CARRIE
Is this yours?

FELICITY
Uhm…

Carrie becomes enraged.

CARRIE
What the hell is this?! You were planning to leave us?

FELICITY
Listen-

CARRIE
-You’re fake! ... So fucking fake!! Why are you pretending to care about me? Mom? Austin?

FELICITY
You just don’t understand-

CARRIE
-All this time, you’ve been counting down the days until you leave us!

INT. AUSTIN’S BEDROOM- CONTINUOS.

Austin is disturbed from his sleep. He HEARS:

FELICITY (O.S.)
You don’t understand-

CARRIE (O.S.)
Yes I do understand! ...You have no right or authority to comment on my life, especially when you’re planning not to be in it.

INT. HALLWAY- CONTINUOS.

Austin slowly walks out of the room and stops on top of the stairs. He looks down to his sisters.

AUSTIN
What’s going on? Are you guys arguing?

Carrie brushes pass Felicity and runs up the stairs.

CARRIE
No, just talking little guy.

Smoothes down Austin’s hair and kisses him on his cheek. Then she looks at Felicity with indifference.

AUSTIN
What happened to your face?

CARRIE
Nothing. Let’s get you in bed.

Felicity looks away in defeat and stares at the suitcase then in to the mirror. Felicity notices the scratch marks on her neck and hisses in pain as she touches it.

Carries comes out of Austin’s bedroom, looks down to Felicity. Felicity continues to stare into the mirror with slight defeat in her eyes. Carrie turns off the downstairs light. Felicity is left in the dark.

FADE OUT.
FADE IN.

EXT. OUTSIDE SCHOOL- THURSDAY MORNING.

Students are walking into school as the bell rings.

INT. SCHOOL HALLWAY- MOMENTS LATER.

Students go into their classes. The hallways are silent.

INT. OUTSIDE PRINCIPLE OFFICE- CONTINOUS.

A few young students waiting outside patiently. Phones are constantly ringing and the reception area looks busy.

INT. INSIDE PRINCIPAL’S OFFICE.

MRS. HATHAWAY, 40, is sitting patiently with her hands folded at her desk opposite of Felicity. Felicity looks nervous and fidgety. Mrs. Hathaway looks sternly into Felicity’s face. There is a long pause.

MRS. HATHAWAY
Do you know why you are here? Miss Hudson?

FELICITY
Huh? Uhm… Uhm… Is it something to do with my performance?

MRS. HATHAWAY
Yes. How do you feel about your school performance lately?

FELICITY
I don’t know… I mean I know… I’ll try harder Mrs. Hathaway. I promise.

MRS. HATHAWAY
Do you think your words are going to be enough as a binding contract?

Felicity just stares down at her feet.

MRS. HATHAWAY
Miss Hudson? You look distracted. Is something distracting you from your studies? Maybe, it’s something to do with your home life?

Felicity slowly looks up.

FELICITY
What do you mean?

MRS. HATHAWAY
Nothing. I just… expected to see your mother today.

FELICITY
Well… She sends her apologies that she couldn’t make it today.

Felicity shows a nervous smile. Mrs Hathaway raises her eyebrows.

MRS. HATHAWAY
Really?

FELICITY
Mrs Hathaway, I’m gonna miss first period.

MRS. HATHAWAY
Don’t you think I’m aware of that? After all, I am the principle. And as a principle, I worry about my students. I am very, very worried about you.

She takes out a small stack of folders and reports from her desk drawers, and puts them on top of her desk in front of Felicity.

Felicity begins to ring her hands. She just stares at the stack.  Mrs. Hathaway begins talking but her voice sounds muffled to Felicity.

MRS. HATHAWAY
Are you listening to me?

FELICITY
Yes.

Felicity looks up to her with a half smile.

FELICITY
What are those, please? (She says as she points to the small stack).

MRS. HATHAWAY
It’s your teachers’ reports about your attitude, effort, contributions in class and your grades. I asked them to do it for students they think that might back slide in their class. And your name happened to come up a few times.

She faintly smiles as she takes out one report and begins to read it.

MRS. HATHAWAY
Felicity is an ‘A’ student and has always been brilliant in her assignments but she seems to be going through a traumatic or negative experience. I suspect this as her average grades in my class is now Ds, as well as sudden withdrawal from everything including class debates. This is a dramatic drop and I would like for you to see her. Miss Rosalind Dunworth, Physics and Chemisty.

Mrs Hathaway looks intently at Felicity for a reaction but Felicity’s face is still distant looking. She dashes the report next to the stack.

FELICITY
I will do better. I promise. No excuses at all… Uhm… Yeah.

Felicity fakes a quick smile. Mrs. Hathaway then reaches for another report and begins reading.

MRS. HATHAWAY
Felicity is a wonderful student but I have noticed a dramatic change in her. I believe if attention is not paid to this sudden shift in this student’s character, then she might become discouraged. She has great valour and hunger for learning but there is a serious issue outstanding, which is bullying. I have addressed the issue with Felicity but she has refused help. However, I write to you Principle Hathaway to investigate and help resolve the very serious situation at hand. Mr Jeremy Cole, Psychology and English.

Felicity looks flustered. The phone suddenly rings. Felicity is startled and Mrs Hathaway looks at her with concern before picking up the phone. Mrs. Hathaway begins to speak quietly and turns her back to Felicity for privacy.

Felicity leans over to look at the report. She reaches over to the report with caution and reads his name. Her thumb gently glides over his name at the bottom of the page. Then she puts it back in place. Mrs Hathaway turns around as she ends her conversation and puts down the phone.

There is silence again before Felicity clears her throat and begins to speak.

FELICITY
Mr Cole and the other reports (points to the stack) are probably right. I mean yes… I seem to be distracted with many things… But I never meant it to get in the way… And the bullying part is true. I didn’t want Mr Cole getting involved because he was leaving (Felicity’s tears begin to well up in her eyes). But, but things are good now.

MRS. HATHAWAY
That’s a good start. You are now talking like an adult, not playing the blame game. It doesn’t mean I don’t take bullying seriously though. I will deal with it.

Felicity looks upset and embarrassed. She rubs her neck. Mrs Hathaway sees scratch marks.

FELICITY
Thanks… Can I go now? Please?

MRS. HATHAWAY
Where did you get those marks from?

Felicity looks down trying to brush her hair forward.

FELICITY
I don’t know what you’re talking about…sorry. Can I go now?

MRS. HATHAWAY
You can go when you’re done answering my question. There are big-red-scratch marks-going down your neck. Do you understand me now?

Felicity looks up. Mrs Hathaway looks at her with intimidation to answer the question.

FELICITY
Ooh, sorry. Yeah. I suffered from a pretty bad rash and I scratch in my sleep. I forgot people could see them.

She gives a nervous smile. She gets up and walks to the door.

MRS HATHAWAY
Miss Hudson.

Felicity stops at the door. She turns around to face Mrs Hathaway.

MRS HATHAWAY
Don’t treat me how you treat your teachers. I’m not dumb and I will be keeping my eye on you.

Felicity nervously smiles and turns around again, and reaches for the door handle.

MRS HATHAWAY
Felicity.

Felicity freezes but doesn’t turn around this time.

MRS. HATHAWAY
I want to see your mother very soon. Do you understand?

Felicity nods and walks out the office.

INT. CLASSROOM- LATE MORNING.

Felicity is sitting in the classroom and not paying attention to what is going on around her.

FELICITY (V.O)
I felt so embarrassed. I’ve never been in the principal’s office like that
before. My mind was everywhere and I broke, every bit of me broke as she read those reports to me… I just don’t know what is wrong with me. I don’t know why I can’t be happy. Have happiness and maintain it. I feel so guilty trying to leave my sister and my brother. I never realised that I had changed.

The bell goes and she packs her bag and walk out in to the school hallway.

INT. SCHOOL HALLWAY- CONTINOUS.

FELICITY (V.O)
I want to be happy. When I look back now, I used to be. I want everything to be alright with my family and get my head back in place. I want to be happy. I think that is what I want.

Jonathan walks out of his class. He runs up behind her and softly grabs her arm. Felicity stops and jumps.

JONATHAN
Run away with me.

She looks at him with tenderness.

FELICITY (V.O)
Maybe Jonathan would make me happy. He made me feel good.

She smiles at him. He gives her a quick kiss. She looks stunted. He holds her hands. They continue to walk down the hallway.

JONATHAN
You looked sad.
She smiles at him again.

JONATHAN
Ah, but not anymore. I still want to cheer you up. Come with me.

FELICITY
I don’t know. (She smiles cheekily) I hardly know you.

JONATHAN
That’s what you think, but you’ve known me a whole life time ago. I’m so glad I kissed you.

FELICITY
Why?

EXT. OUTSIDE SCHOOL- SCHOOL FIELD- LUNCH.

He grabs her hands and pulls her outside.

FELICITY
Where we going?

He doesn’t reply but just looks at her as they run onto the school field. They both laugh and Felicity let shrieks of delight.

JONATHAN
We’re here.

FELICITY
The school field?

She begins laughing.

JONATHAN
Close your eyes.

She playfully closes her eyes and then cheekily open one eye, Jonathan turns around and sees her eye open. She quickly closes it as she giggles.

FELICITY
My eyes are closed, I swear.

Jonathan leads her behind the bleacher.

JONATHAN
Here we go. You can open up your eyes.

A small brown grocery bag nestled into the grass.

FELICITY
What is this?

JONATHAN
Lunch. I dreamt of us having lunch today. So here we are. I hope you like cheese and tomatoes sandwiches.

FELICITY
I’ll survive.

Jonathan peers into the bag and takes out a tartan blanket and spreads it on the ground.

JONATHAN
You can have a seat. Let me get the plates and the rest of the stuff out.

FELICITY
Okay.

She sits down and looks nervously at Jonathan. He takes out cling film wrapped sandwiches and paper plates and plastic cutlery.

JONATHAN
I bought some thing with bubbles in it.

He smiles at her as he shows off a bottle of grape juice. She takes a sandwich and a plate, and places it in front of her. She un-wraps the cling film around her sandwich. He does the same.

FELICITY
I appreciate this.

They both take a bite of their sandwiches. Jonathan notices the scratch marks.

JONATHAN
What happened to your neck?

FELICITY
My sister scratched me… I caught her with a half naked boy on top of her. We had a fight and she found the bus ticket. She figured out that I was going to leave.

JONATHAN
I’m sorry. Is everything okay, now?

FELICITY
Honestly, I don’t know. Mrs. Hathaway is now keeping her eyes on me. Some teachers wrote some stuff about me, which I thought no-one else could see.

He stretches across her and touches her cheek. She smiles at him and looks soothed by his touch.

JONATHAN
Appearances can be deceptive but not always.

FELICITY
Yep… Oh no!

JONATHAN
What?

FELICITY
Jonathan! I’m supposed to be having lunch with Summer.

JONATHAN
When?

FELICITY
Like now!

She looks at her watch.

FELICITY
Like everyday.

JONATHAN
Then just make a change. Spend it with me.

FELICITY
You’re right. I’ll explain to her after lunch.

Felicity looks relieved and happy again.

JONATHAN
Cool. Now for the drinks.

He pops open the bottle of grape juice. He pours out the drink into two plastic white cups and gives one to Felicity. They drink it.

FELICITY
She wouldn’t mind if I missed today.

INT. SCHOOL HALLWAY- AFTER LUNCH.

Felicity quickly walks over to Summer, by the lockers. Summer’s face is hidden by the locker. Felicity walks up to summer and touches her arm.

FELICITY
Hey.

Summer slams her locker door and gives a dead straight stare into Felicity’s face.

SUMMER
Don’t hey me! Where were you?

FELICITY
Ohm-

SUMMER
Why didn’t you show up? Well? Well?!

FELICITY
I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to miss our lunch.

SUMMER
I had no-one to sit and eat with! I had no one on my side! And I had no-one to talk to… such a jerk.

Summer walks off and felicity follows. Summer stops mid-track and turns around pointing at Felicity. Felicity stops as well, looking astonished.

FELICITY
Yes, I am a jerk but if you just listen to me-

SUMMER
No! You listen! You have been screwed up for along time. I let you off because I pitied you, but that’s over.

Summer walks off again. Felicity runs around her and puts her hand out to stop Summer. Summer stops and rolls her eyes, diverting any attention to Felicity.

FELICITY
Now listen to me. Okay? Have I got your attention?

Summer huffs and folds her arms.

SUMMER
Go on.

FELICITY
I have been screwy for sometime and our friendship has suffered. I am so so sorry.

SUMMER
I’m listening.

FELICITY
Today, Jonathan and I meet for lunch. But, but I wasn’t going to stay. He saw that I was upset and he took me for a surprise lunch.

SUMMER
(Sarcastic)
Great.

FELICITY
It’s not like I ditched you for a guy, or anything.

SUMMER
No Felicity! That is exactly what you did. If you didn’t notice, I’m a frickin’ leper in this school. We shared a common theme, Danielle. We hated her together and that bought us close. But you rather fold in two and get beaten up. You’re a wimp; you have no spine, no soul. And here you are more popular than me-

FELICITY
(interrupts)
Stop! Please.

SUMMER
STOP WHAT?! I don’t believe this! You go off on a romantic date. If it wasn’t Danielle, I would be at the top. Your rightful place would still be at the bottom. What I don’t understand is that I’m everything that you’re obviously not. Why is this guy after you?
(Sarcastic)
Huh, something must be really wrong with me.

Felicity looks shocked and hurt. People are looking at them.

SUMMER
(Tearful)
No. No. You don’t get to be sad and hurt. You’re not the victim, I am.

Summer walks off crying. As she walks she barges into a passer-by.

EXT. OUTSIDE SCHOOL- LATE AFTERNOON.

School bell rings and we see Felicity walking out of the school building.

A student is giving out bright coloured flyers at the exit. She takes one as she passes the student. Felicity glances at it then put it into her coat pocket.

Jonathan is braced against a tree and runs out behind it as he spots Felicity walking pass. He runs to Felicity’s side and holds her hand.

JONATHAN
Hey. How did it go with Summer?

FELICITY
I don’t know.

JONATHAN
What do you mean that you don’t know? Was she cool you missing lunch?

FELICITY
What’s with the questions?  

JONATHAN
Sorry. If you guys had a bust-up… I can explain to her-

FELICITY
(Angrily interrupts)
She hates my guts. And I’m guessing she probably doesn’t want to talk to you.

Jonathan looks hurt. Felicity looks across to him and smiles. He smiles back at her.

EXT. SIDE WALK- CONTINUE.

JONATHAN
It’s my birthday today.

FELICITY
It’s your birthday and you said nothing?

JONATHAN
Sorry…

FELICITY
Oh, that is why we had that little picnic, huh?

JONATHAN
Guilty! I wanted to spend time with my favourite person in the whole world.

Felicity smiles at that statement, she blushes and kisses him.

FELICITY
Happy birthday.

JONATHAN
How do you feel about parties?

FELICITY
Depends, what kind of party?

JONATHAN
Birthday party, interested? I mean, would you like to come to a party to night? It’s at my Aunt’s house. You know where is?

FELICITY
Yeah. Oh, I don’t have a present to give you.

JONATHAN
It doesn’t matter. You are my gift… Are you going home?

FELICITY
(Sighs)
As usual.  

JONATHAN
Do you want to go to the park?

FELICITY
(cheerful)
Why not? My sister is still not talking to me and my school life seems to be ever losing its meaning.

She laughs and Jonathan chuckles.

FELICITY
Why the park?

JONATHAN
I like it there (beat). It reminds me of home, growing up in New York. There are so many beautiful parks. My dad and I would play soccer all day on Sundays.

FELICITY
When was the last time you saw your dad?

JONATHAN
A long time ago. Make a right (indicating with his hand).

FELICITY
Ooh.

JONATHAN
It’s a shortcut.

They cross the road and start to walk in the park.

INT. FELICITY’S HOUSE- CARRIE’S BEDROOM.

Carrie is crying on her bed. She is wet in her bathrobe. The curtain is drawn and her room is dark. She has her first period. Her skirt has period stains on it, which is lying on the floor. Carrie looks upset and is rocking back and forth, looking at her skirt.

INT. LIVING ROOM- MOMENTS LATER.

Austin is in the living room in front of the television, watching cartoons. He laughing and eating his sandwich from his lunch pack. His books are sprawled out around him.

Carrie appears from behind the living room door. She looks upset and clutching at her robe.

CARRIE
Where Fliss?

AUSTIN
I don’t know, I’m nine.

He looks at her.

AUSTIN
Why aren’t you dressed? Did you have a bath?

CARRIE
What’s it to you? You don’t know anything!

AUSTIN
(Blasé)
Whatever.

He turns around and pays his attention back to the television. Carrie reappears again.

CARRIE
Where is mom’s work number?

AUSTIN
I don’t know Carrie. You sometimes expect too much from me. All I want to do is watch my favourite programme in peace.

CARRIE
What about watching your favourite programme in pieces?

She marches infront of the television and switches it off.

AUSTIN
Oh man.

CARRIE
Austin, where the hell is mom’s number?

AUSTIN
I think it’s underneath the telephone. Now, can I watch TV?

CARRIE
Austin?

AUSTIN
What?

CARRIE
Don’t you think that it is weird mom hasn’t been home? She hasn’t wrung lately?

AUSTIN
I know but Feli-

CARRIE
(Interrupts)
Screw Felicity. I’m going to call mom’s work place.

EXT. PARK EXIT- LATE EVENING.

Felicity and Jonathan are holding hands, looking peaceful and content.

FADE OUT.

FADE IN.
INT. FELCITY’S BEDROOM- MOMENTS LATER.

Carrie is rummaging through Felicity’s chest of drawers. Carrie looks distressed.

Felicity walks in and is spooked.

FELICITY
What are you doing in my room?

Carrie doesn’t respond but starts to panic and cry as she is looking in the wardrobe.

FELICITY
Carrie, what are you looking for?

Felicity grabs hold of Carrie’s arm and calms her down.

CARRIE
I’m bleeding. I’m bleeding and it won’t stop.

FELICITY
Oh my God, where? I can’t see it! What happened?

CARRIE
I tried calling mom but I can’t get through to her and…

FELICITY
Look at me! Look at me! What is this about?

Felicity turns Carrie around and looks down and she sees period stains at the back of the dressing gown.

She begins to laugh and hugs her.

CARRIE
What is funny? What’s wrong with me? I’m such a freak.

FELICITY
No. You’re normal! It’s called your period, Carrie. Every girl gets it, you know. It’s normal.

First time WE SEE how child-like Carrie really is in her face. She stops crying and pulls away from Felicity’s embrace.

Felicity goes into her school bag and pulls out a pad. She gives it to Carrie.

FELICITY
It will protect your clothes and absorb.

CARRIE
Thanks… I wish mom was here. It’s been a couple of days. I think she should quit her job… Thanks again.

FELICITY
Carrie wait… Mom tried her best with us right? And you know she would be there for you.

CARRIE
Why are you talking in pass tense? Do you know something?

FELICITY
No! I mean if she was here she would have done a better job than me, you know what I mean?

Carrie turns to leave.

FELICITY
Carrie stop. Are we cool?

Carrie walks to the door and looks back at her sister.

CARRIE
Yeah…But why were you planning to leave us?

Felicity smiles at first but looking into her sister’s eye made her look to the door. She shrugs looking at her sister for forgiveness.

Carrie walks out and shuts the door.

EXT. JONATHAN’S HOUSE- NIGHT.

LOUD Indie music is blaring; students are outside talking and playing football. House is decorated with ‘HAPPY 18th BIRTHDAY’ banner and streamers. Some girls are being chased by half naked boys with water-balloons.

Felicity walks upto the house and looks intimidated by the older students and the atmosphere. She looks beautiful and alive. She walks upto the porch and looks at a couple kissing. They look at her and she turns head quickly and opens the door.

INT. JONATHAN’S HOUSE- CONTINUOS.

The music is even LOUDER, drinks are everywhere. Kids are drunk, dancing, and playing drink games.

Felicity was blown away at what she sees and doesn’t recognise anybody from her school.

PARTY GUY #1
Hey little lady, wanna dance?!

FELICITY
Sorry, no.

PARTY GUY #2
Can I get you a drink shortie?!

FELICITY
I’m good but can you help me?!

PARTY GUY #2
What up?!
FELICITY
I’m looking for my boyfriend, the birthday boy!

PARTY GUY #2 shrugs and walks off.

INT. LIVING ROOM- CONTINUOS.

Felicity walks to the living room. There is a DJ and kids listening to the music. She quickly scans the room but doesn’t see Jonathan. On her way out she bumps into PAIGE, 18.

PAIGE
Hey, are you like, like, uhm… do I know you?!

Felicity looks slightly scared of the girl. She gives a friendly smile.

PAIGE
Yeah, wait a minute. You’re like that clever girl in Sociology.

FELICITY
I don’t do sociology! I’m not a senior!

PAIGE
Whatever, you look good!

FELICITY
Thanks! Have you seen Jonathan?!

PAIGE
No, my friend! Look in the kitchen! Enjoy yourself!

FELICITY
Thanks!

Felicity walks out of the living room and into the Kitchen.

INT. KITCHEN- CONTINOUS.

She saw food, dinks, plastic red paper cups and plates. She scans the kitchen but saw no Jonathan. She walks to the back and look through the GLASS doors in search of a familiar face.

She could see kids outside sitting down talking and drinking.

She turned around and walked to the food and took a cup and got a drink. She looked at the stale food and walked out the kitchen.

INT. UPSTAIRS- MOMENTS LATER.

She is waiting in queue for the toilets, next in line. She is still keeping an eye out for Jonathan. She looks at her watch. It’s 12:45 pm.

FELICITY
Come on… Where are you Jon? I can’t believe it’s his birthday and he not here.

The door is unlocked and Maria (Danielle’s best friend) steps out. She has a shock and disgusted look on her face.

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