Daffodils

By

Anica Moore

First Draft 2.25.2008 WGA #123456 c 2008

Anica Moore 5651 Fremont Ave North Brooklyn Center, MN 55430 (763) 566-0292 anicama1@msn.com

FADE IN:

INT. ANNUAL AWARD CEREMONY FOR CREATIVE ARTS - EVENING

Art museum president speaking to audiance after lastrecipiant walks off stage.

CHADAnd the next catagory, oh, well,it's for best art display and mostvisited display. And the winneris...Allison Wakemen, for thefabulous display of her favoriteflowers, one oops uh, painting of aflower titled: The Daffodil. A verylife like painting.

Crowd clapping and chearing as she walks up to the podium toaccept her award.

ALLISONWell, thanks for the very warmappreciation. Wow, what can I say.I didn't prepare a speech because Ididn't think that I would win thisfine award. Um, I would like tothat the most inportant men in mylife, my son Jake, and my truelywonderful and very supportive lifepartner, my husband James. I loveyou so such. Oh and to all of youwho helped me or should I sayforced me to enter my painting inthe first place, (Sarah), you knowwho you are. Thank you very verymuch.

Leaves the podium and walks back to her table to sit with herfamily. Everyone at the table admires her trophy.

FADE IN:

EXT. THE DRIVEWAY OF THE DAYCARE HOUSE - AFTERNOON

ALLISON PULLS INTO THE DRIVEWAY AT HER SISTERS HOUSE TO PICKUP JAKE FROM DAYCARE.

Jake screams with excitment upon looking out the window andspotted his mom.

JAKE

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Mommy's here aunt Aggie, mommy'shere.

AGGIEVery well Jake. Now come down offAuntie's couch and don't...(jumpsto his bottom)

JAKEOops, sorry aunt Aggie. (Giggles)

Jake runs to the door as fast has he can to meet mom.

JAKEMommy, mommy, I made something foryou today. It's your favoriteflower...daffydills.

ALLISONOh I absolutly love it. Thank yousweetheart. It's so beautyful.

JAKENow you can put it in the art placeyou work at mommy, and everyone cansee what a beautiful and talentedson you have.

ALLISONYes, I'm sure everyone would loveit. (Tickles Jake) Ok buddy, whydon't we get your things together,we have to meet daddy at the fieldfor his annual baseball game.

Teasing

AGGIEAwe, I wanted to see him play too.Can I go...huh...can I, can I, huhhuh...can I.

JAKEAunt Aggie, you can sit with me inthe back seat, but you have to getyour own carseat. Mines is just toosmall to fit your big butt in it.(Giggles)

Simultaneously

2.

Jake...

AGGIEMy butt ain't that big, is it?

ALLISONUh, well, let's just say you got alot of junk in that trunk.

Aggie shoes away Allison hand from pointing at her rear.

ALLISONI was pointing at you car trunk...

AGGIEHa ha ha, very funny. Everybodywants to be a comedian. Wait forme, I really do want to go, ok. Twominutes.

Aggie runs to her room to grab her camera and a sweater.Chattering continuing as they head for the car.

CUT TO:

At their seats of James's company annual baseball game,cheering that James hit a homerun for the game point.

As Allison gathers their belongings to meet James on thefield, she suddenly feels weak and fatiuge.

AGGIEAllison, what's the...whoa, hangon.

ALLISONI just gotta rest a while, toughday at work. These hours arekilling me. Jake honey, come sit bymommy.

Jake climbs the bleachers to join his mom.

AGGIEHoney, why don't I go and get Jamesfor you. Just stay put, and I'll beright back. Ok?

Walking down the bleachers

AGGIEOh, and you might want to thinkabout taking some of you vacation

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time. You lost most of it last yeardue to your workaholic syndrom.

Allison smiles and nods in aggrement.

ALLISONHoney, how would you like it ifmommy took a whole week off to playwith you?

JAKEReally? Mommy I love you. We canplay with my action figures and ...

Jake continues to talk.

FADE IN:

INT. BACKYARD GREENHOUSE OF THE WAKEMEN'S - DAY

It's the last day of Allison's much needed vacation. Finishinga painting of yet another flower. James joins her in thesolarium/greenhouse, carring a video camers.

JAMESWow honey, that's great. You arereally good at doing flowers. Nowtell me and the rest of theworld...how do you do it?

ALLISONWell, Mr. Newscaster, I first findsome paint, then something to paintwith, like this paintbrush, thenget out a canvas...oh...this is thebest part...I paint. (Giggles) Now,will you put that thing down, andgive me a big fat kiss.

James puts the camera down, still on, and grants her request,takes her by the hand, leads her to the bedroom and closes thedoor.

FADE IN:

INT. FRONT DOOR OF THE MUSEUM - MORNING

Two weeks has passed and Allison is at work when she suddenlyfaints while walking through the door. Her co-workers rush to

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her aid and her boss calls 911, and she's off to the hospital.

FADE IN:

INT. LOCAL HOSPITAL - MORNING

At the hospital, James, Jake, and Aggie are in the waitingroom waiting to hear something from the doctors. Allison walksout of the room putting on her jacket. James rushes to aidher.

JAMESWhat did the doctors say hun? Imean, are you all right to go? Canyou walk? Maybe you should let meget you a wheelchair honey, juststay right here.

ALLISONHoney, I'm fine. I can walk withoutdifficulties, trust me, I'm fine.

AGGIESo...what did the doctors say? Ibet he said you work too much andtoo hard.

ALLISONNo, none of the above. But, he didsay I should think about taking iteasier at work due to the fact thatwe have a bun in the oven.

Aggie and Jake look at each other with huge smlies on theirfaces, then giggles. James's worry turns to joy, and sheads atear.

JAMESReally? Oh honey, really? Wow, oh Ilove you so much. Did you guyshere? Were going to have anotherbaby. Your going to be a bigbrother Jake. (To Allison) Ohhoney, you were probably just tiredfrom the pregnancy. I love you.

James is bursting with excitement and hugs her again andwhispers in her ear. Allison giggles.

JAMESThank you, thank you so so much.

5.

FADE IN:

INT. MASTER BATHROOM OF THE WAKEMEN'S - DAY

ALLISON IS DEALING WITH THE DIFFUCULTIES OF BEING PREGNANT,SICKNESSES, TIRED ALL THE TIME AND WEIGHT GAIN.

ALLISONI don't remember being this sick with Jake. I can't keepanything down anymore. Do you think that it's something tobe alarmed about honey?

JAMESNo, you heard what the doctor said at the last visit. It'snormal to experiance different symptoms with differentpregnancies. No two pregnancies are alike. Women are strong,there's no way a man could endure such...such...uckness.

James shivers with disqust and turns to his wife withsympathy.

JAMESYea, sorry hun, pregnant women arejust very strong.

ALLISONYea, we are. And you want to knowwhy we are so strong?

JAMESEnlighten me. (Smiling at her)

Walks up to Allison and gives her a big bear hug. looks her inthe eyes.

ALLISONThose of us lucky, strong womenhave a very loving, strong, andcaring husband to lean on.

James looks at her with such love in his eyes.

JAMESNo, it's me who is the lucky one.

Allison's love for James grew even more that moment.

ALLISONAwe, sweetie, what would I dowithout you in my life.

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James grabs her bathrobe and helps it on her.

JAMESI wouldn't simply exist. So don'tgo breaking my heart.

Allison tries not to giggle at the song line.

ALLISONI couldn't if I tried.

They share a laugh together as Jake inters the room.

JAKEMommy, I'm hungry. Can I havepancakes and eggs this morning andsome cereal with milk?

JAMESWhoa buddy, are you really thathungry, or are you just trying toget our undivided attention?

JAKEUndervid-did attention daddy.

James growls at Jake as to act like he's a lion hunting hisprey.

JAMESGrrrr, I'm hungry too.

Jake screams and runs out the room. James has captured hisprey as Allison hears Jake laughing and James growling.

FADE IN:

INT. THE WAKEMEN'S BREAKFAST NOOK - MORNING

Jake is just finishing up his breakfast when James noticeshe cleaned his plate. James holds up the plate to Allison,who gathering Jake's bag to be dropped off at the daycare.

JAMESDah-ta-dah. Someone has just joinedthe clean plate club. The cleanestplate that I ever saw.

JAKE Daddy, stop it, you emressing me.

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ALLISONHa, that's cute. It's embarrassingme, sweetheart. That's the correctpronunciation. Ok Jake, now thatyou are an eleate member of theclean plates club, do you want tobe a member of the I'm ready to goclub?

Without answering, Jake gets up and sprints to get hisfavorite toy and put sweater on.

JAKESo mom, how did I do? Am I a newmember of the rush club?

Allison and James have a laugh.

ALLISONThe first member to hit an all timerecord high for being the fastestat getting ready. Oh honey,remember my doctors appointment isat 12:30 this afternoon, if youstill wanted to come with me.

James grabs his briefcase and all head to the door.

JAMESAre you kidding? My work life isscheduled around my wife and kids.I want to be there, and I will bethere, each and everytime.

They share a kiss and say their goodbys.

FADE IN:

INT. DOCRTORS OFFICE - AFTERNOON

AT THE DOCTORS OFFICE FOR A SCHEDULED APPOINTMENT, WITHJAMES ALONG AS USUAL. SIX AND A HALF MONTHS LATER. ALLISONCOMPLAINS TO HER DOCTOR THAT THE FATIUGE ALONG WITH NEWSYMPTOMS, ABDOMINAL PAIN, SHORTNESS OF BREATH, AND WEIGHTLOSS, IS BECOMING TO BE ANOTHER WORRY FOR HER. WAITING FORTHE DOCTOR TO COME BAKE WITH THE LAB RESULTS.

ALLISONHoney, I'm very worried aboutwhat's happining. It just doesn't

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feel right.

JAMESHoney, you have nothing to worryabout, remember...

Both symitainiously.

ALLISON/JAMESNo two pregnancies are alike.

ALLISONBut James, this feeling is like noother. There's changes that I don'tunderstand. I mean, I'm loosingweight, I'm always tired, alwayshungry but can't keep anythingdown, there's gotta be somethingwrong with me.

JAMESOk, honey. We'll ask the doctor ifhe thinks that there's any problemsand if there is, what can we do tosolve them. Your healthy, you eatright, you don't smoke or do drugs.You are doing everthing righthoney. Espeacilly by Gods laws.Don't worry your pretty little headabout this pregnancy. Oksweetheart?

ALLISONYou always manage to say the rightthings at the right time. Thank youbabe. I feel better already.

The doctor enters the room.

DR. FRANKSLes't see hear. Allison, youcomplained of fatiuge, weight loss,and being unusally tired, correct?

ALLISONYes, that's true doctor. Along withshortness of breath.

DR. FRANKSYes, well these are all commonsymptoms of pregnancy, theshortness of breath comes from thefetus needing more room to grow,

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and therefore, the fetus pushes allof your organs up causing you lungsto become more cramped...shortnessof breath. The baby is just gettingbigger. So, no need to worry aboutthe shortness of breath. And as forthe other symptoms such as theabdominal pain and weight loss. Aslong as you have morning sickness,it's very likely that you willexperiance a little more weightloss and abdominal pain just comeswith the vomiting. Sore muscles.The rest of the test results looksabsolutly great. Your lucky to havesuch a healthy wife James.

JAMESThank you doctor. She was soworried something might be goingwrong with this pregnancy. I amlucky.

ALLISONYea, maybe I do worry too much. ButIsn't it true that if you don'tlook for a specific cause, youwon't know where to look?

Doctor turns to Allison with a bewilidered look.

DR. FRANKSYes, that's true Allison. Is theresomething you might want us to lookfor?

Looking through her charts brfore stopping on a certain page.

DR. FRANKSAh, here it says you have a familyhistory of cancer. My guess is thatyou want to check for cancer. Whenwas you last check for cancer? Idon't recall seeing this test donehere.

ALLISONWell, I think it was soon after Igave birth to Jake. The resulstwere clean then. I remember that.

DR. FRANKSOk, I'll have the nurse set up

10.

another test soon after you givebirth with this one. By the way, doyou two want to know the sex ofthis baby?

Allison amd James look at each other decided they didn't wantto know.

DR. FRANKSOk, I''l send in the nurse andafter that your free to go,remember to schedule theappointment before you leave today.the sooner the better. Take care.

Releaved at what the doctor said, they give each other a hugand reassure each other of the others bond that holds theirlove together.

FADE IN:

EXT. MUSEUM - DAY

A local contest poster in search for the next best youngartists is displayed outside of the museum.

INT. FRONT DESK OF MUSEUM - DAY

AFTER SIGNING IN, ALLISON RETURNS TO WORK AND SHARES HERDOCTOR VISITS WITH HER CLOSEST FRIENDS, SHERRY AND SUSAN.

Sunny, warm, and blue skies. Lunchtime at their favoriteresturant as they enjoy their lunch on the resturants patio inthe beauty of the day. They also witnessed someone, whoappears to be homeless, arguing with the waiter because shedidn't have enough money to pay for the food.

SHERRYAwe, will you look at that. Thatgirl knew she didn't have enoughmoney to pay for that meal. Why dopeople do that and think they willget away with it.

ALLISONNo, wait. I think she's mentallydisabled, maybe she didn't realizeshe didn't have enough to cover themeal.

SUSANWell, dang. Poor thing probablycan't read either.

11.

Allison puts down her napkin and walks over to the girl andoffers to pay for the entire meal. She thanks Allison as shegive the girl some money.

SHERRYThat chic is always helpingsomebody out. More power to her,cause I wouldn't do it.

SUSANI know, you could never be thatsweet. Ha.

On her way back to the table, Allison gets a pain in her side.Susan and Sherry rush to aid her.

ALLISONI'm fine, I'm fine. I just need torest a minute.

SHERRYGirl, you need to rest for a while,take some time off of work. I knowthe doctor told you to cut yourhours, didn't he?

ALLISONYea, your right. I'll put in forhalf days anf time off. Anyways,I'm starving...lets eat.

They head back to their table to proceed with their lunchorders.

FADE IN:

KITCHEN OF THE WAKEMEN RESIDENCE - EVENING

At home, late afternoon. Preparing dinner for the family.Allison excuses herself to Jake and heads for the bathroom.She discoverd that there's blood in her stool. She panicks,and call James at work.

PHONE OPERATOREmperial Technolgies how can Iassist you today?

ALLISONYes, um, is James Wakemen in?

12.

PHONE OPERATOROne moment please! (Pause) I'llconnect you, thank you.

JAMESHello, this is James speaking, howcan I help you to...

ALLISONHoney, you gotta come home rightnow. I think I'm in labor. Hurryplease.

JAMESTwo seconds...just hang in theresweetie. Bye. I have to go...mywife thinks she may be in labor,I'm going to have a baby.

James is so very excited. The office claps at him as he leavesand he takes a bow.

FADE IN:

EXT. EMERGENCY ROOM ENTRANCE - NIGHT

AT THE HOSPITALS EMERGENCY ENTRANCE, JAMES RUSH ALLISON IN,WITH JAKE ON HIS HIP.

INT. EMERGENCY ROOMS INPATIENTS CHECK IN DESK - NIGHT

JAMESNurse, I think my wife is in labor.Can we get a wheel chair?

NURSE 1Reight away sir. Orderly, get thispatient a wheelchair while I checkher in. Your name maam?

ALLISONAllison Wakemen. I'm only 29 and ahalf weeks along. I can't be inlabor.

NURSE 1Ok, I'll have to ask you somequestions. Your cover for insuranceI see, so we'll skip that part, ok,how far along are the contractions?

13.

ALLISONI have no contractions. I was usingthe bathroom when I discovered thatI was bleeding.

NURSE 1Are you on any medications?

ALLISONNo, none. Except for the occasionalasprin when I have a headache.

The nurse checks her blood pressure and temperature. Nurse 2announces to Nurse 1 that the room is now available.

NURSE 1Ok, thank you. Let's get you toyour room. And of course, put onthe first gown facing open in theback and the second open in thefront. Would you like some extrablankets to keep you warm?

ALLISONYes, please. It's cold in here.

Jokingly.

NURSE 1

Most hopsitals try to deep freezeyou before you get the chance toleave. It's a way of themsaying...we also offer warmth...butat a price.

The three of them laugh. Nurse 1 exits to get more blankets.

JAMESHere, let me help you honey. Areyou comfy?

JAKEDaddy, I'm hungry. I didn't get achance to eat dinner yet.

JAMESOk sport. once we get mommysetteled, we'll go and check outthe cafeteria, ok buddy?

JAKE

14.

Gottcha, partner.

They all have a laugh.

JAMESIs there anything you want from thecafeteria sweetie?

ALLISONHoney, you know I can't eat whileI'm being examined. Silly husbandof mine.

JAMESOh yeah, sorry. I forgot. Ok, areyou alright then?

ALLISONI'm fine dear. Go on now, my buddyis very hungry. Hey, no junk foodnow.

JAKEOk mommy...no junk food...atall...ever...well, just a littletiny bit...so little you can't evensee it.

ALLISONOk buddy, just the tinest littlebit. As long as you eat your maincourse.

JAMESAnd what about me? Am I allowed tohave a little tiny bit?

All three have a laugh.

ALLISONGo on you two.

James and Jake leave for the cafeteria.

FADE IN:

INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - LATE NIGHT

WHILE JAMES AND JAKE VISITED THE CAFETERIA, THE NURSE WASGIVEN ORDERS TO CHECK THE BLOOD WORK AND VITALS. THE DOCTORRETURNS AND EXPLAINS WHAT WILL HAPPEN NEXT.

15.

DR. FRANKSAllison, how are you feeling?

ALLISONA little tired but ok I guess.

DR. FRANKSWell, we're running some tests onyour blood work and the nurse willbe monitoring the baby on fetalmonitoring device. So far, I don'tthink you have to worry about beingin labor, but we would like to keepyou overnight for observations.

ALLISONIf you think it's nessary doctor.

DR. FRANKSI'll thack down Mr. Wakemen andfollow him up on what we talkedabout. Ok.

ALLISONHe should be in the cafeteria withmy son Jake.

Allison soon falls asleep. James and Jake return to the room.

JAKEMommy, I finished all of my chiliand I even ate the crackers too!

JAMESShhh, buddy, mommy is sleeping.

Allison slowly turns her head to them and slightly opens hereyes.

ALLISONIt's ok, I was just resting myeyes. That's good Jake, you mean totell me you ate the whole bowl ofchili?

JAKEYep, and I didn't get any junkfood. Not the tinest piece.

JAMESYep, it's true, not the leastlittle piece, honest.

16.

ALLISONHoney, did the doctor find you andexplain what's next?

JAMESYes...he did. I can call Aggie tokeep Jake overnight with her. Thatway, she doesn't have to beg us tolet Jake to finally stay the night.She's been asking for months now,and I will stay with you...everystep of the way.

Allison smiles, turns to Jake.

ALLISONOk, buddy. Are you going to be agood boy for mommy and daddy? Anddo everything that Aunt Aggie tellsyou to do?

JAKEYes mommy. I'll be an angel. A boyangel.

Laughter from the three.

JAMESNot only an angel, a boy angel, buta very respectful and trustworthy,honest boy angel. Ok buddy? Be onyour best behaviour? Huh?

JAKEYou got it daddy.

James heads towards the phone to make the call.

FADE IN:

EXT. HOSPITAL'S NAME AND THE FRESH SPRAY OF FLOWERS ON THEFRONT LAWN - MORNING

JAMES IS ASLEEP ON THE CHAIR AND ALLISON IS READING A BOOKON THE WARNING SIGNS OF PREGNANCY.

Flipping through the pages, Allison wakes James.

JAMESGood morning sweetheart. How didyou sleep?

17.

ALLISONActually, quite good I must say. Ineed to get one of these beds(Giggles). Het, It says here thatsome women experiance bleedingthrouout the whole pregnancy andwithout it being a big concern.

JAMESYea, so until we get the testresults back, you shouldn't worrythat pretty little head of yours.Try not to think about it as muchand...

Dr. Franks enters the room.

DR. FRANKGood morning Allison, James. Howwas your rest lastnight?

JAMESWell, I could have gotten moresleep if I had a more comfortablechair. But otherwise, it was great.

ALLISONHon, I think the question was meantfor me, and I slept very well,thank you.

Dr. Franks flips through the results with a concerned lookupon his face.

DR. FRANKWell, these some good news and somebad news. Which would you like tohear first?

Allison and James look at each other with concern.

JAMESHoney, you choose.

ALLISONOk, uh, the bad news first.

DR. FRANKUm, well, the tests shows thatthere are some cancer cells in theblood work. We think it may be fromthe colon, but it could be fromsomewhere else. We have to do more

18.

tests to find out where it's comingfrom.

JAMESAnd the good news doc?

DR. FRANKSThe fetus is developed enough toinduce labor. We need to birth thebaby in order to start Allison onchemo theropy, if you want to fightthis thing. The fetus won't be ableto survive the chemo treatment. Ifyou'd like, you can pick the dayyou'd like the baby to be born.Just don't wait too long. Ok, I'llleave it for you two to decide onthe birth day. If you have anyquestions, don't hesitate to callmy office or have me paged. Ok?

Allison and James are in disbelief and saddened by thr news.

JAMESOk doctor. Thanks (without lookingup).

Dr. Franks walks over to Allison and touches her shoulder,then leaves the room.

JAMESBut it's not fair. You dideverything right in the Good Lordseyes, why you, why now?

ALLISONSweetie, even the Good Lord givesthe honest people trials throughoutlife. We can beat this, I know wecan. I just hope they caught it intime.

James looks at Allison with hope and tears in his eyes. Hewalks over to her and hugs her tight.

JAMESIf I have to, I will got to theends of the globe to help cure you.I wont stop til you are cured.

Both cry as they hold each other tightly.

ALLISON

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(holding back tears) Well, now wehave to pick a date for the baby.

JAMESYea, um, how about your mom'sbirthday? It's next week, that'searly enough, you think?

ALLISONGood. Then it's setteled. August27th.

JAMESAugust 27th.

FADE IN:

INT. HOSPITAL'S BIRTHING ROOM - EARLY MORNING

THE 27TH OF THE MONTH, ALLISON GIVES BIRTH TO A BABY GIRL.JAMES IS ESTATIC OF THE BIRTH OF HIS DAUGHTER. AGGIE, JAKE,SHERRY, AND GRANDMA WAKEMEN, ARE IN THE FAMILYROOM AWAITINGNEWS OF THE BIRTH.

James walks in with the biggest smile on his face.

JAMESIt's a girl.

GRAMDMA WAKEMENOh, a baby granddaughter,congradulations son. When can wesee her?

JAMESThey're cleaning her up and runningsome tests on her, but soon after,you can hold your newgranddaughter. Jake, your a bigbrother. How do you feel?

JAKELike the biggest brother in thewhole world.

Everyone laughs as James picks Jake up to hug him. Group hug.

SHERRYI brought these for the baby. It'sunisex, you know, just in case.

JAMESAwe, thanks Sherry. Let's all go to

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the nursery window and take a look.

All agree and they head for the nursery window to look at thenew edition. Walking down the hallway giggling, joking,excited, and just having a good time.

MATCH CUT:

INT. ALLISON'S HOSPITAL ROOM - LATE MORNING

ALLISON IS BEING PREPPED FOR MORE TEST, JUST HOURS AFTERGIVING BRITH. DOCTORS IDENTIFIED THE SOURCE OF THE CANCER,THE COLON.

NOTE* (This scene showsthe Dr. Franks explainingthe findings and what shewill have to go throughwhile on chemotheropy.Giving her pamphlets afterpamphlets on the road torecovery.)

The treatment starts after Allison and family share familymoments of laughter, holding the baby, reading to the babyand Jake, taking pictures of mom and baby, jake and baby,and then the whole family.

FADE IN:

EXT. MUSEUM STATUE DISPLAYING DAUGHTER GIVING MOTHER AFLOWER - DAY

At the musume where Allison works, her co-workers areoutting together a get well basket, and signing a get wellcard.

INT. CUBICAL OF SHERRY - DAY

SHERRYHey, Sam. Did you sign the get welland the congradulations cards forAllison?

SAMNo, no one told me. (Signs thecard). I heard she had a baby girl.What did she name her?

SHERRY

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Rose Marie. You know, Rose becauseshe loves flowers and Marie is hermothers' middle name, oh and hermiddle name too. She's a toughwomen, and with James by her side,they can beat the toughestchallenges.

SAMI sure do hope so. Allison has beennothing but a God send to us poorsouls, she's pretty special to theworld. Not many like her aroundthese days.

SHERRY You got that right (laughs withSam) She's one of a kind.

SAMMore like one in a billion. (Doesthe hand gesture of a unbreakablechain, with a clicking sound,winking his eye at Sherry)

Sherry laughs and thanks Sam for signing the card as gives hermoney to fund the get well basket. Sherry leaves her officewith the card and funds to buy the basket.

MATCH CUT:

INT. HOSPITAL FRONT DESKS RINGING PHONE - AFTERNOON

A nurse picks up the ringing phone and answers it while adoctor goes into the room next to Allison's room.

INT. ALLISON'S ROOM - AFTERNOON

James is waiting for Allison to wake up after being preppedfor treatment. He sits by her bedside staring at her with somuch love in his eyes, holding her hand.

Groggy and tired, Allison awakes to find James at her sidewith his head on their coupled hands.

ALLISONHey honey. How long have you beenwaiting here? Where's Rose andJake?

JAMESTime spent with you is not waiting,it's divine serenity my love.

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(Snaps out of his romantic mood)Oh, Rose is in the nursery and Jakeis at your sister's.

ALLISONGood. The kids are safe then.(Pauses) Oh, honey, you always knowwhat to say you sweet sweet man ofmine.

JAMES(Softly spoken)

It's so easy when your in love witha women who creates such a sereneenviornment for a man to thrive in.

Dr. Franks knocks on the door and asks to come in, being thebearer of more bad news.

DR. FRANKSOh, good...your both here.

JAMESOhh, I didn't like the sound ofthat.

DR. FRANKSWell James, Allison, it seems asthough we pinpointed the source ofthe cancer. And as we thought, it'syour colon. We can get you intosurgery immediatly, within the nexthour to be exact, but, if we doremove the canerous area of thecolon, it can cause what is calledMetastasis of the colon cancer.Cancer cell can break away andspread to other parts of the body,and once metastasis has occured,there is no hope for a cure. Now,is this something that you wouldlike to try? I know it'sdevistating news, and the odds arenot in your favor if you opt out ofsurgery.

JAMESSo, what your telling us is, eithersurgery or no surgery, she has avery slim chance of recovering atall?

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DR. FRANKI'm afraid so James. The survivalrate is very slim, due to themetastasis, for someone who withfar advanced colon cancer. The testshow that she has already enteredthe thrid and final stages ofcancer.

The words the doctor speaks are flowing through James asAllison cries. James is so overwhelmed, he faints.

FADE IN:

INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - LATE EVENING

James wakes up in an unfimilure room, strugling to get up andback to his wife. Not remembering the news of the fatal coloncancer, he gets up enough stregth, after the nurse advises himto stay in the bed, he rushes to Allison's room.

Nurses rush after him, still woozy, but he manages to make itto her room.

NURSE 3Sir, you need to take it slowly andlie down.

JAMESI'm fine, I just want to see mywife. Really...I'm fine.

JAMESHoney, did I just have a nightmare,or did the doctor tell us anightmare?

ALLISONHoney, we have to try and beatthis. I don't want to leave you. Wehave to be strong...

James is having a histerical fit.

JAMESNo, no, no, NO. Why, why why? Howcome God? How come you take thegood people and leave the bad? Ican't loose her, no, not now, Godplease hear me. Please God, Pleasehear me.

24.

James is crying uncontrolably. Allison cries because James istaking the news so hard.

ALLISONOh, honey. Listen, we can beatthis, ok. I'm willing to try justabout anything to keep on living,for you, for our children. But youhave to be brave for the both ofus. Honey can you do that for me?

JAMESAnything Allison, anything for you.I will do anything and everythingfor you.

Nurse 3, who was standing at the door, turns and quickly walksfrom the room and back to her station, crying and holding hermouth.

NURSE 3Isn't there something they can do?I mean with all this newtechnology, you would think therebe something somebody, somewhere,can do.

NURSE 4Girl, you alright?

NURSE 3It's just not fair. It's just notfair. (crying)

NURSE 4You go take a break, I'll cover foryou. You gonna be alright, aren'tyou?

NURSE 3We'll see.

Nurse 3 walks toward the elevator, heading to the breakroom.

FADE IN:

EXT. GRANDMA WAKEMEN'S FRONT YARD WITH LIGHTS TURNING ON -NIGHT

JAMES NOTIFIES HIS MOTHER OF THE TRAGIC NEWS, AND TO CALLEVERYONE AND THAT SHE'S NOW IN SURGERY AND TO PRAY THAT THESURGERY GOES WELL.

25.

FADE IN:

INT. HOSPITAL'S WAITING ROOM - VERY EARLY MORNING

After surgery, allison is wheeled into intensive care andcannot have any visitors for 48 hours. James is beside himselflooking through the window, wanting to hold his wife. He walksup to the nurses station.

JAMESNurse, when can I see my wife?She's out of surgery and no one hastold me anythign yet. I want to seemy wife.

NURSE 5Her name?

JAMESAllison Wakemen.

NURSE 5I would have to talk the doctors,ok, before you can see her. Onemoment please.

Nurse 5 calls Dr. Franks and he gives the ok. Tells the nurseto prep him for the room.

NURSE 5Come with me sir. Ok, in order tovisit your wife, you must gothrough the cleanroom proceedures.

Camera shows James washing up and putting the gowns on.

FADE TO ICU

James walks slowly toward sleeping Allison. He takes her handand sits on a chair next to her bed. It hurts him to see herhooked up to all those tubes and a breathing machine. He pullsher hand up to his face and closes his eyes. Allison slightlyopens her eyes.

JAMES(Softly) Honey, don't talk. I'mhere and I love you so so much. Idon't care how much it costs, orwhere I have to travel, I won'tstop til you come home with me. Ineed you to continue my life. Ican't live without you. I promise

26.

you that I will search high and lowfor a cure. Baby, I promise.

A faint smile on Allisons' face let'r him knows she can hearhim.

FADE IN:

INT. COMPUTER ROOM OF THE WAKEMEN'S - DAY

AT HOME, JAMES CALLS MANY CANCER CENTERS, NOT GETTING THEANSWERS HE WAS HOPING FOR. HE BROWSESES THE INTERNET HOPINGTO FIND A CANCER CENTER THAT WILL GIVE HIM HOPE THAT HE CANBELIEVE. WITH NO HOPE AT ALL, HE CALLS DR. FRANKS BEFOREHEADING BACK TO THE HOSPITAL, IN HOPES OF GETTING GOOD NEWS.

JAMESHey...Dr. Franks. Any improvements?

DR. FRANKSWell, James, we wont really knowuntil the chemo treatment tell us.I wouldn't worry so much...

JAMES(Sad, serious face) Worry? Thatwomen is my whole life, my entireexsistance, the only women my heartcraves, and all you can say isdon't worry? Without her, I'mnothing.

DR. FRANKSYou have two children, right? Wellyou need to be strong for them andAllison as well yourself James.I've been a doctor well long enoughto know what to say to my patients.It's the chemotheropy that willtell us, you, me and Allison, ifthere is a chance of survival. Nowtake that bit of info, and relax.We'll keep you informed of anychanges, ok.

James, teary-eyed.

JAMESI'm sorry doc, I'm just under alotof stress, is all. I shouldn't havecome to you like that. I'm sorry.

27.

DR. FRANKSApology excepted. I know the stresslevels your going through, but ifAllison is to have hope, you haveto have hope. Don't show her yourfears, show her hope. Hope is whatgets people through this. If youshow her there's no hope, her hopefades and that's how cancerpatients die faster.

JAMESThanks for the advice doc. Can thefamily, the kids visit her?

DR. FRANKSI don't see why not. I wouldn'tstay more than a hour or two. Chemocan wear a person out quickly.

JAMESOk, thanks doctor. Bye.

James looks at Allison with a sad face.

FADE IN:

INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - DAY

Day two of the chemo and Allison is getting sicker. She'sgiving up on hope and prepares for the worst.

James, Jake, Aggie, Rose, and Grandma Wakemen arrives justafter the nurses clean up Allison.

JAKE(Soft voice) Mommy! Hi mommy. Areyou feeling better? I made you thisget well card and daddy let Rosespit up on it. I put it in thedryer so it could be dry when youread it.

ALLISONOh, sweetheart, what a beautifulcard. My favorite card. I will lovethis card forever. Thank youpumkin.

Allison gives Jake a kiss and a hug.

GRAMDMA WAKEMEN

28.

Honey, how are you feeling?

ALLISONTired and achey. Thanks for asking.

Allison looks over to James and the baby.

ALLISONThere's my special girl. I want tohold my baby girl.

AGGIEWe just fed her, so she should bejust fine.

JAMESI, just fed her. You know, she hasyour appitite hon. She can scarfdown a 4 ounce bottle faster thatyou can say...(Jake and James atthe same time)supercalifagilisticexpialidocious.

Everyone in the room bursts with laughter.

ALLISONWow, did daddy teach you that?

JAKENo, Mary Poppins did. (giggles)

JAMESYea, he wanted to wait til you gothome to watch it with him. He sayswhen your home with him, you twohave a mini movie night.

JAKE(To James and Grandma Wakemen) Yea,and mom lets me pig out on junkfood.

ALLISONJake, that was supposed to be ourlittle secret. Now that the catsout of the bag, we have nothingmore to hide. (Jake (whispers)).

JAKE Oops, sorry mom. (uses his hands tomake a zipping motion).

29.

JAMESSo, how ya feeling? I mean are youcomfortable enough? Can I get youanything?

ALLISONHoney, I'm fine. Don't worry. Youworry alot. Just don't worry toomuch. If I need anything, I'll ask,but right now, I'm a-ok.

Allison enjoys the company of her family and holding herdaughter.

FADE IN:

EXT. HOSPITAL ENTRANCE - DAY

AFTER TWO WEEKS, THE DOCTORS FELT THAT ALLISON CAN CONTINUECHEMOTHEROPY AT HOME THOUGH THE FULL TIME NURSE PROGRAM, SOTHEY RELEASED HER. AT HOME, SHE WILL RECEIVE A FULL TIMENURSE WHO WILL TEACH JAMES AND AGGIE HOW TO ADMINSTER THECHEMO-LIQUID THROUGH THE I.V. ALLISON IS TOLD TO TAKE ITEASY FOR THE NEXT FEW WEEKS AND GET PLENTY OF REST AND KEEPA 'RUNNING LIST' OF HER SIDE EFFECTS. SOON AFTER, ALLISON ISGIVEN A REST PERIOD OF A MONTH. SAYING BYE TO THE HOSPITALSTAFF, ALLISON IS HELPED OUT OF THE WHEEL CHAIR AND INTO THEWAITING CAR.

EXT. GREENHOUSE OF THE WAKEMEN'S RESIDENCE - DAY

During the resting period, Allison continues with herpainting.

Day break, start of the third week, at home in thegreenroom.

ALLISONOh, that's not gonna do. (talkingto herself) I need it to look likeit's the actual thing. If they canjust grow. Maybe it's the wrongtype a soil, or maybe I should juststick to painting, something I doknow. (Walks over to the garden toexamine the flowers) Buds, hum, atleast their starting to grow.

JAMESHey, there you are. Are you ok, canI get you anything? (sarcastically)

30.

ALLISONHon!

JAMESJust kidding sweetie. What do wehave here? (Walks over to herpainting) Wow, that's really goodhoney. But I have something thatwould make your day brighter.(Pulls some flowers from behind hisback) Ta-dah.

ALLISONOh, honey, their sweet. Daffodils.I love you. Thank you, your sosweet.

JAMESI knew you need somewhere to start,since you can't get anything inthat garden to grow (sarcastically,giggles) Sorry hun, you don't havea green thumb. I do know that youcan paint your but off. So taspeak.

ALLISONYou don't need to boost me up, Iknow it looks bad. (Smells theflowers) These are beautiful andjust what I needed. All thismedications is scrambling my mindso much, I forgot what my favoriteflower looked like. (A sight pause)Maybe I should take a break. Howabout we, take the kids to thepark. I'm sure Jake is dying to go.

JAMESOk, I'll get Aggie to come with us.

ALLISONHon, just our family this time, ok.It's been a while since our familyspent time together.

James walks over to Allison and gives her a big hug and akiss. They walk in the house to get ready to go to the park.

CUT TO:

EXT. LOCAL PARK - DAY

31.

At the park, James is with Jake on the playground and Allisonis on the bench with Rose, reading a book while she naps.

SYDNEY(O.S)

Brian, get your butt off that swingand come here. That's not the wayyou swing. Come here or I'll comeand get you and you won't like mewhen I get there.

Allison looks up from her book to see who was screaming attheir kid.

Sydney and Allison's eyes meet.

SYDNEYOh my gosh, Allison Monroe, is thatyou?

ALLISONSydney...oh my gosh, how are you?How long has it been? (They hugeach other)

SYDNEYOhh, girl, your asking me? Shoot,about 15 years. Girl, I see you gotkids or a kid.

ALLISONYeah, and I see you have a son

SYDNEYAnd just as hardheaded as hisfather.

ALLISONActually, I have two, a boy who's 4(points to Jake) and a girl, andshe's almonst two months, and a 42year old, but he's still growingup. (Giggles)...I'm teasing. That'smy husband, James over there withJake. Yea, my last name is Wakemennow.

SYDNEYOhh, honey child, you married JamesWakemen? Wasn't he that footballjock who was so popular with allthe cheerleaders? He was (eyes

32.

widen) really hot then huh?

ALLISONHe still is.

SYDNEYAnd you are still so skinny. How doyou do it? I wish I had yourmatabolism.

ALLISONIt's not my matabolism, I havecolon cancer. (looking sad, slightsmile)

SYDNEYOh, I'm so sorry. Did it requiresurgery?

ALLISONYea, I just got out of the hospitalfrom surgery, they think they gotit all out and now I'm onchemotheropy...at home. Prety soon,they say, I'll start loosing myhair, so the doctor says.

SYDNEYThat's a good sign. Not the hairloss thing, but them letting you gohome to continue treatment. Let metell you, my mom had colon cancerand they didn't catch it in time.Well, they told her that she had 4to 5 weeks to live. She waslike...oh hell no, you ain't gonnasit up here and give me a deathsentance, I got options. I'mgetting a second opinion, and atried and a forth, til I come outclean.

ALLISONSo, did she get those opinions?

SYDNEYDidn't even come close. She diedwhen the doctor told her hardheaded self would, 5 weeks later.She was a very determined women.Nobody could tell her anything. Imiss her, but I'm glad she's notsuffering anymore.

33.

ALLISONWow, I do remember her as beingvery forceful and aggressive.Remember the time when you had asleepover and she told us that wehad to be asleep by 10 o'clock? Andyou said 'mom, at a sleepover, youdon't sleep'.

SYDNEYOh, yea. I got my butt tore up thenext day for takling back to her.

ALLISONYou never told me that.

SYDNEYGirl, I wasn't gonna tell the worldthat I got my butt beat. Couldn'tsit for two days. Un un, they knewmy mom was sycho. (They both laugh)

James walks over to where Allison and Sydney is sitting.

JAMESHello! Oh my gosh, Sydney?

ALLISONYou remember her?

JAMESOf course, she was Tim's girl andall he ever talked about. Wow, howhave you been?

SYDNEY(looks at Allison) Here we goagain.

The three of them sit and talk while Jake plays at the park,within fullview of them.

SUPER: "THREE WEEKS LATER"

INT. WAKEMEN'S RESIDENCE - DAY

Midweek, daytime. Jake, taking an afternoon nap, suddenlyawoke crying. Allison rushes to his room to comfort him.

34.

ALLISONBaby, mommies here, I'm here.What's the matter honey? Did youhave a bad dream?

JAKEIt was a nightmare mommy. I dreamedthat me and daddy was at thedoctors and you were in the bedwith the covers over your head anddaddy wouldn't stop crying. Thenthe doctor came in and said...'I'msorry, your mom is dead'. (criesharder)

ALLISONNo, no sweetie. See...mommies righthere with you. I'm not goingnowhere.

JAKEPromise?

ALLISON(Hesitates) Promise (Does theirsecret pinky grip)

JAKEOK mommy (wipes his tears away)

ALLISONWhy don't we...go get somelunch...with daddy? What do yousay?

JAKECan Rose come too?

ALLISONOh yes sweetheart, your such a goodcaring big brother. OK. Let's getready.

JAKEOK, I gotta go potty first and I'llbe ready, OK mommy?

ALLISONOK baby. I'll be here.

Allison just realized that she made a promise that she don'treally know if she can keep.

35.

ALLISONI hope (she says in a whisper).

FADE IN:

EXT. A LOCAL RESTURANT - AFTERNOON

AT LUNCH WITH HER HUSBAND AND TWO KIDS, ALLISON SEEMS TO BEIN A WORLD OF HER OWN.

James noticed her distant look.

JAMESHoney, is something bothering you?

ALLISONNo, sorry, I'm just in my ownlittle world. It's nothing hon,sorry.

JAMESSomething is bothering you, I canfeel it. What's wrong? Come onhoney, you can tell me.

Not wanting Jake to hear her talk, she leans in to whispers toJames.

ALLISON(Whispers) Well, Jake woke up fromhis afternoon nap and said he had abad dream and in it...I was dead. Ididn't know what to say to him, buthe made me promise to him that Inot going to leave...youknow...die.

JAMES(Whispers) Well your not. Yourgoing to get better sweetheart.

ALLISON(Whispers) I sure do hope so.(Turns to Jake, smiles) Honey, whatare you doing? (Jake is laughing atthe mess he made) You look like apizza...veggie pizza (smiles atJake and James) Wow.

JAMES

36.

Buddy, your supposed to eat thefood, not decorate you face.

All look at Jake and find that he has food all over his faceand laughing.

JAMESLet's get you cleaned up buddy.(Takes his hand and goes to themens bathroom to clean Jake up) Usmen will be back (mimics the voiceof a robot, Jake laughs more)

JAKEYea, well be back (trying to mimichis fathers' voice, giggles)

ALLISONMy silly men. Go on, go on. (Pausesthen checks on Rose) I wish I couldsleep as good as you do my dear.

The waitress walks over to see if anything else is needed.

WAITRESSIs there anything I can get foryou?

ALLISONNo...no, I think were fine thankyou.

WAITRESS(Bends over to get a good look atsleeping Rose) Oh, what a beautifullittle girl you have. She's a doll.

ALLISONThank you. I finally got thedaughter I wanted for so long. Ijust hope I'm around long enough tosee her grow up. These days, Idon't think people take the timeout to really appreicate theirchildren. Children are our future,you know.

WAITRESSYou got that right. I'm stillwaiting for the man of my dreams tocome into my life before havingchildren.

37.

ALLISONYea, I'm really lucky that the manof my dreams come into my life whrnhe did.

WAITRESSSo, how did you know it was him?

ALLISONI just knew we were destined foreach other. It's weird really. Oureyes met, and that was the beginingof a lifetime of pure, eternallove.

WAITRESS(In aw) Wow, that's exactly what Iwant.

Jake and James return from the bathroom.

JAMESAll cleaned up.

WAITRESSWow, and he cleans up really good.Lucky you. (Winks at Allison, walksaway and whispers) Cutie.

Allison smiles.

ALLISONYou are clean. Good job buddy!

JAKEThank you mommy. (Allison gives hima pat on the head).

JAMES(Looks at his watch) Ooh, I have tohead back to work. (Holds a packagebehind his back) Got something formy flower...

ALLISON(Interupts) ...James,honey...(Looks at the flowers withlove in her eyes) Sweetheart! Oh,thank you.

JAMESIt was all his idea, and his alone.

38.

JAKEYou like them mommy?

ALLISONYou sure know a way to this mommy'sheart, their absolutly gorgous.Thank you. We better get these homeand get them some water...theirprobably thursty.

Gathering their things together, paying the bill and headinghome, Allison and the kids and James to work.

ALLISONOh, the tip! I forgot to leave thetip.

JAMESI left it hon. A BIG tip.

ALLISONGood, cause she was really sweet.She reminds me of a young me. Sheknows what she wants in life. Havea good rest-of-the-day at work.(They exchange kisses) Bye orshould I say b.f.n. (Laughsslightly)

JAMESHuh? Oh yea...Bye for now. My sillywomen. B.f.n.b (To Jake)

JAKEBye for now buddy (laughs) I loveyou daddy.

JAMESLove you too bud.

Allison takes the stroller and Jakes hand as they head out thedoor homeward bound. Singing and dance walking.

CUT TO:

INT. DOCTORS OFFICE - DAY

ALLISONS'S APPOINTMENT FOR AN UPDATE ON THE CHEMOTHEROPY.

Dr. Franks enters the room.

39.

DR. FRANKSGood afternoon Allison, James. Ihave some terrific news and somegood news. (Pauses) Which would youlike first? (Smiles)

ALLISON(Sarcastically) Such a hard choice,what do you think honey?

JAMESUm, how about the good news.

DR. FRANKSThe good news is...she is takingwell to chemotheropy. Cancer cellcounts are way down, about 40% andwith continued chemotheropy, werehoping to eradicate it entirely.

James and Allison sigh with relief and smile.

JAMESOk, now the terrific news. (Turnsto Allison, rubbing his handstogether) Oh, this is gonna begood.

DR. FRANKSAfter we ran a biopsy on thecancerous mass the we removed, wefound that it was, more or less,the 3rd and final stages of thecancer, which we are certian wecaught it in time. You will becured if the chemo continues to doit's job. (Stands up to shakeAllisons' hand) Congradulations.

Allison and James jump for joy. Tears are flowing, andhappiness is expressed to the entire 2nd floor.

JAMESI can't wait to...I'm gonna callwork and cancel all appointmentsfor the day. Wow...it's a dreamcome true...I know, we should havea party to thank all the people whohepled us through this.

ALLISONYou better be sure to invite Sherryor she'll have your head.

40.

JAMESYea, she does scare me a bitsometimes. (Laughs and hugs Allisontight) Honey, we made it, I knew wewould. Thank you Lord, and everyoneelse who helped from the otherside. Thank you.

ALLISONWell, I'm not out of the woods justyet. (Holds a pen like amicrophone) But I would like tothank the Lord and everyone on theother side, and most of all (putsthe pen down, I thank you, my love.

Allison and James hug each other with so much love.

FADE IN:

INT. WAKEMEN'S RESIDENCE - MORNING

JAMES IS AT THE TABLE READING THE PAPER AND DRINKING COFFEEWHEN HE HEARS ALLISON SCREAM (LIGHTLY).

ALLISONOh, my, gosh! My hair! My hair.

James enters the room. Allison pulls the covers above herhead.

JAMESHon, what's the matter? Honey,what?

ALLISON(Sobbing voice) Don't look at me.Go away, I'm ugly.

JAMESHoney, it can't be all that bad.What happened?

ALLISON My hair. My h-h-h-hair. (Sobs more)

JAMESOh sweetheart, let me see.

ALLISON

41.

No, don't look at me. I can imagineI look horrible. (Still crying)Stupid chemo side effects. I'mloosing my hair. (Shows James ahand full)

JAMES(Does the yuck face, quietly) Itcan't be all that bad hon, let'ssee.

Allison slowly pulls the cover from her head.

JAMESYour still the most beautyful womenin the entire universe.

ALLISON(Sarcastically) Yeah, in youruniverse.

JAMES(Serious) In Gods great universe.(Smiles)

ALLISONAwe, thank you honey (wipes hertears away).

JAMESHair or, (sarcastically) littlehair, or, no hair at all...your theonly earth Angel I will ever haveeyes for (smlies, and gives Allisona kiss) So, are you feeling goodenough to take a walk?

ALLISONYes, I think so, why?

JAMESBecause, (stands up) I think weshould go shopping for the party(Jokingly) and get you something tocover up that dome (smiles).

ALLISON(Throws a teddie bear at James) Youbig goof. Ok, but...I don't wantJake and Rose to know that theyhave a bald headed mother (laughs).

JAMES

42.

Ok. Tell you what! I'll get themready and in the meantime, you getyourself ready. Ok?

ALLISONIt's a deal! (Kisses James)

JAMESKisses Allison again and whispers)Soooo sweet you are. (In regularvoice) Meet us in the den (blowsAllison a kiss (she catches it) andwalks out and closes the door).

CUT TO:SHOPPING MALL

(MUSIC PLAYINGDURING THESHOPPING SPREE,RECOMMENDS THESONG 'WALKINGIN SUNSHINE')

MONTAGE - THE WAKEMEN'S HAVE FUN TOGETHER

--They go on a shopping spree. James takes pictures of Allisontrying on different, as well as his children tying them on.

--Allison gets different color scarves. Jake tries on reallybig clothes.

--James is holding Rose (facing outward) having her wave tomommy and Jake coming out of the dressing rooms.

--They plan a party while watching jake stuff his face withicecream.

CUT TO:

INT. BACKYARD OF THE WAKENEN'S RESIDENCE - DAY

PARTY TIME

The party is set outside and a beautiful, bright and sunny daywith no clouds in sight.

The tables are set with finger foods, drinks, napkins andother party assortments.

ALLISON

43.

Hon, did you get the daquiry mix,you know how much Sherry lovesliqueur.

James walks out to the patio to admire Allisons'determination.

JAMESYes dear, and I also got somethingfor you too.

A floral service walks in behind James bringing loads ofperfect, yellow daffodils for every table.

ALLISON(Trying to hold back tears)Oh-my-gosh. Their so beautiful andyellow. (Slight laugh) Wow, honey,thank you.

JAMESAt least no one will ever forgetyour favorite flower. (Stares atAllison as she looks at thedelivery) Gorgous.

ALLISONYes, they are.

JAMESNo, you. You are so gorgous. I wishthere was such a women like you forevery man in the entire world. AndI got you all to myself. (In a sexyvoice) How selfish of me. (Theyshare a kiss).

Sherry walks out to the patio, silently and listens in, butinterupts at the kissing.

SHERRYEwe, get a room. (Walks over toAllison and James, hug) Hey girl,hey guy...yea, if I say boy thatwouldn't describe you, man. How areyou doing?

ALLISONGood so far. Thank you for coming.

SHERRYI wouldn't miss this party for 40million dollars.

44.

JAMESWhy did you put a cap on 40million?

SHERRYCause, if I was offered 41 millionor more, I'd throw her a party in adifferent part of theworld...like..let's say Cancun.(Laughs) Heck yea!

MUSIC FROM THE80'S UP TOPRESENT.

More party guests arrive. The music is playing and everyone ishaving a good, good time. Dancing and sharing conversations,playing with the kids, and popping party poppers at the end.

As the evening rolls around and at the parties end, Allison ispreparing for her finale speech.

ALLISON(Nods to the DJ to turn the musicdown, clinking her glass) May Ihave everyone's attention! (Pause)As you all know, I have cancer ofthe colon. Up until now, I had noidea of the nature of this disease,and how much it can affect familyand friends. Although there is noknown cure, with family and friendslike you by my side (tears up), I'msure, I can beat the hell out ofthis disease though I'm not out ofthe woods yet, but I want to thankyou. thanks so much for showing methat life does not have to end sorapidly, harsh, and alone. You, myfriends, my dear...dear sweethusband, my two beautiful children,you all are the true survivors.(Everyone claps and cheers, someteary) I do, though this party isabout me, but for you, want to showour thanks (waves hands toimmediate family) and for thekindness you have shown to me andmy family during this time oftrial, have a gift for each andeveryone of you (cries, James

45.

pionts the camera to her) for thelove that you have shown me, us.Thank you so, so much. I love youall.

Everyone cheers, and claps louder. James is taping Allisongiving everyone their gifts and getting hugs from everyone.

CUT TO:

Sherry is the last one left as she helps staff clean up.

ALLISONSher, stop that. That's what theyare getting paid for.

SHERRYOoh, sorry girl. Black folks, well,black women hate to leave a messbehind them. Compaulsive disorder,I think. (James is laughing,loudly, from kitchen window) Umn,that crazy man of yours. (Bothlaugh)

BLACK SCREEN

SUPER:

"FIVE MONTHS LATER."

EXT. MUSEUM WITH SPRING FLOWERS BUDDING UP - DAY

IT IS THE BEGINNING OF SPRING. ALLISON WAS WEANED OFF THECHEMOTHEROPY TWO MONTHS AGO AND HER HAIR IS STARTING TO GROWBACK WITH NO SIGNS OF THE CANCER RETURNING AS IS BACK ATWORK, PART TIME. ALLISON WALKS TOWARD THE FRONT DOOR, WAVINGBYE TO HER CO-WORKERS.

FADE IN:

EXI. HER SISTER'S HOME DAYCARE DRIVEWAY - AFTERNOON

Allison stops by the daycare to pick up the kids.

JAKE(Shouts) Mommy is here! Mommy is

46.

here. (dashes to the door) Himommy.

ALLISONHey buddy. Give me a big bear hug.(Bends down to hug him) Where isyou sister at?

JAKEShe's eating again. She's like abottomless pit. She eats all day.She's gonna get fat. (Puffs out hischeeks and arms, then laughs)

AGGIEHe's right! What do you feed her athome...pork chops?

ALLISON(Laughs) No silly. She eats thatorganic baby food. I must admit,(walks over to the high chair asRose gets excited to she her mommy)she can put away some food. Justlike her daddy. That didn't comefrom our side. (Both laugh).

AGGIEI'll get her stuff together.

ALLISONI'm not in a hurry.

AGGIEStaying for tea?

ALLISONSure. James has a project deadlinecoming up and he says he needs toget it done for one of his clientsbefore next monday, so he won't behome til late. I think it's one ofthose wedding videos he edits whenhis partner messes up. He takes onso much responsiblity when Stevemesses things up.

AGGIEIs that the Steve that you twotried hooking us up 8 years ago?

ALLISONAfraid so. He's really trying hard,

47.

you know. He lost Helen two yearsago and since her death, Steve justhaven't been the same. Poor guy.Widow. I'd hate to leave James awidow, but I don't think I'll everchoose chemotheropy again. Itreally harsh.

AGGIE(Pauses, gets upset by her lastcomment) So, you mean to tell me,that if the, God forbid, the cancercomes back, you wouldn't fightit?That's dumb Allison. How can yousay that? You have children forcryng out loud, don't they mean theworld to you? Gosh girl. (Shakingher head)

ALLISON(Just as calm as her nature) Untilyou actually go throughchemotheropy, you'll never, everfeel as dead and as usless as withany other disease treatments as Idid while on chemo. It's reallylike being inside of a twilightzone episode, with everyone runningaround you trying to make you ascomfortable as possible. When inreality, you just want to die.That's the honest truth. Others,who I've spoken with that alsosuffered through cancer of thecolon, said that they would choosedeath over more chemo treatment.Think about it Aggie, if the cancercomes back, it comes back fullfledged, spreading like wildfire.Why would anyone want to sufferthrough that horrible ordeal, justto die anyways, in the end.

AGGIEI just got a little selfish, isall. I just can't loose my sister.(Tear up) You are the one person,on earth, right now, who means somuch to me. I just can't looseyou...not now, not ever. (Wipestears) I'm on the outside lookingin, you are an Angel, a real liveearth Angel.

48.

ALLISONStop it, your gonna make me cry.(Cries anyways, both hug) You areselfish. (Laughs) Just kidding.

JAKEMommy! You and aunt Aggie cry alot.

They grab Jake up to give him a sandwich hug.

FADE IN:

INT. DOCTORS OFFICE - DAY

ALLISON HAS A CANCER CHECK UP EVERY THREE MONTHS SINCE THETREATMENT ENDED.

At the clinic, Allison goes through the tri-monthly cancerscreening. The doctor return to her room carring hisclipboard with a not so happy look on his face.

DR. FRANKSGood morning Allison, James. How doyou feel today?

ALLISONGreat doctor. I feel so alive. Myhair is growning back fast.

DR. FRANKSI don't know how to tell you this,so I'm just gonna say it best as Ican. (Smile drops from Allisons'face) The cancer...has returned.But with chemo...(Gets cut off)

ALLISON...No, James and I talked aboutthis for months and months. Ichoose not to go throughchemotheropy ever again. You saidso yourself about 9 months ago,that if after the chemo treatment,the cancer comes back, there wouldbe no room for survival in this 4thstage of cancer. You said itspreads rapidly and chemotheropyonly prolongs life, there is noremission at this stage.

49.

James walks over to the window, softly crying.

DR. FRANKSWhile you were in remission, Ithought you might have changed yourmind. Most people do duringremission, that's why I had to becertain.

ALLISONThank you for your thoughts, but Isaid to myself, if I ever had tosuffer through cancer again, Iwouldn't do chemotheropy. Not achance.

DR. FRANKSThere are other treatment optionsavailable. There's biologicaltheropy, radiation theropy...(Getscut off)

ALLISON...Doctor, I'm refusing all andevery treatment to prolong my life,if that's ok.

DR. FRANKSIf it's your wish, but I do believein living as long as one can.(Turns to James) You have a strongwife James.

James is silenced by the news he just heard. The doctorsadvise is falling on deaf ears. James starts to cry silentlythat progresses to a cry of hurt.

FADE IN:

EXT. WAKEMEN'S FRONT YARD FULL OF GROWING FLOWERS - EVENING

ALLISON AND JAMES RETURN HOME WITHOUT THEIR CHILDREN.ALLISON BEGINS THE CALLING OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS TO TELLTHEM WHAT THE DOCTOR HAS TOLD HER AND JAMES.

Allison is on the phone with her best friend Sherry.

ALLISONYep, that's what he said. It cameback only, it's spreading fast.(Responds from conversation) No, he

50.

didn't give me the lenght of timeit will take to live. (Cries)Sherry, I'm so sorry. This is nothow it's supposed to happen, I'msupposed to live with my true lovehappy and ever after.

James hears her talking from the kitchen and is so saddened byher conversation. He drops to the floor and cries.

ALLISON(Hears James crying) Sher, I'llcall you back. OK? Bye. (Allisonwalks to the kitchen to find Jameson the floor in an upright fetalposition with his head on hisknees) Honey, are you alright? Iknow this is not what you wanted tohear, but it's what we have to dealwith now. You have to be strong forme, for Jake and Rose. (Strats tocry along with James) I know...it'snot fair. Lifes not fair. There arepeople who are far off worse than Iam. I have the worlds most lovingman, I have two wonderful children,most of all, the life I would'ntchange for anything in the worldand if I could do it all over, I'ddo it just the same...(slightgiggle) well, without this deathsentence anyway.

JAMESBut why you? Why not someone thatdosen't have what we have,love...true love. Life isn't fair,especially when you, of all people,do things by the Lord. In all myyears, I have never seen someone asbeautyful as you. (Touches her facesoftly, voice cracks) Why you? Myheart is breaking. (Continues tocry)

ALLISONWith the time that we have left,let's try to enjoy it while itlasts. Let's make happy momentslast forever.

JAMESWhen God let his Angels come to

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earth, he gave me the strongest,most beautyful one.

FADE IN:

INT. COMPUTER ROOM AT THE WAKEMEN'S - AFTERNOON

James is calling around, checking out websites for informationon cancer and their possible cures. Allison is asleep in thebedroom, having given her notice at work.

JAMESUh, yes, um hi. My name is James Wakemen and I would likesome more infromation on this colonoscopy percedure?

LINE OPERATORSure. Is this for you or forsomeone else?

JAMESWell, it's for me but for my wife.My wife has the cancer.

LINE OPERATORHas she had a dignoses for coloncancer?

JAMESYes, but the doctor said we shouldget more opinions for treatment orcures.

LINE OPERATORThere is an information session setup for the 16th that's a friday.Would you like me to schedule youfor this. It is limited seating.

JAMESYes, please. James Wakemen. Myaddress is 5651 Ventage Circle inMinneapolis Minnesota 55411.

LINE OPERATORVery well, so I have you down forthe information session on the 16thof April, 2009 at 2pm. You mightwant to bring a notebook and pen,although pamphlets are provided. Isthere anything else I can help youwith sir?

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JAMESNo, no. You did a great job,thanks.

LINE OPERATORThank you sir. Be sure to arriveearly to comform you seat. Goodluck and have a good day sir.

JAMESThanks, you to. Bye.

Allison over heard the conversation and walks into thecomputer room.

ALLISONHoney, who was you talking to?

JAMESOh, uh, that was the Mayo Clinic. Iwanted some more information onthis cancer.

ALLISONHoney, I thought we talked aboutthis. You know the last and finalstage of colon cancer is the finalstage, right? (James nods his head)So, why fight it? I have come toterms with it. You have to do thesame or it will kill you. It willonly pull you down so far, that itwill be impossible to climb backout.

JAMESI (angry) haven't come to termswith it yet. This is not onlyeffecting you, but me, and Kake,and Rose. I know I'm being a littleselfish, but I won't loose you oversome stupid disease. I'm going tofind as much information as ittakes to get some answers here,even if it kills me. Allison, youare my whole exsistant. I can'tlive my life without you. I needyou here with me. I'll never loveanyone like I love you ever again.

ALLISONDear, I want to stay with you too,

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but God has put, in his plans, forme not to suffer anymore. Trust himand his word. He knows what's bestfor all of his people. (Pause) Isit fair that some children, sufferfrom lukeimia, only to die after along battle with blood tranfusionsand pain? Is it fair that somebabies are born with fatal diseasesonly to have their life taken atjust two days old? And what aboutthe parents? Their lives are turnedupside down instanly. But theystayed strong for their children sothat their children would staystrong. I need you to do the samefor us. Please honey. You have tobe strong for the kids, if not foryourself.

JAMESYou are strong.(Slight smile) I'lltry sweetheart. But, do you mind ifI attend this information session?

ALLISONI'll join you. (Smiles and leans infor a kiss) Oh, I love you so much.

TO THE ROOM TOMAKE LOVE FORTHE LAST TIME.(RECOMMENDS THEMUSIC BY BOYZTO MEN, LOVELY)

CUT TO:

Sherrys' house. She is watching tv and sipping wine when thecancer society announces to medical uses for marijuana. Sherrywrite down some information and the national phone numberhotline. Looking at the clock, she decides to wait untilmorning to call them.

FADE IN:

EXT. SHERRY'S FRONT LAWN GROOMED NICELY - MORNING

RINGING PHONE, SHERRY LEAVES A MESSAGE TO JAMES AT HIS WORK,KNOWING THAT ALLISON WILL NOT WANT TO TRY MARIJUANA.

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SHERRY(Beep) Yea, hey James, this isSher. I was watching tv last nightand, well, I could'nt talk toAllison about this cause I know shewould refuse, but the cancersociety says that the medical useof marijuana for cancer patientswas approved. I thought you mightwant to take down their number tofind out more information. Thenumber is...1800-555-0000. Hey,your welcomed. Talk to you later,tell Allison our prayers are withher. Love ya. (Click of the phone)

FADE IN:

INT. THE DESK OF JAMES - DAY

JAMES RETURNS TO WORK TO CHECK ON HIS CUSTOMERS AND HISMESSAGES. AS HE LISTENS TO THEM ALL. HE HAS MESSAGES FROMFRIENDS SAYING HOW SORRY THEY ARE TO HEAR OF ALLISONS'CANCER IS BACK, FROM HIS CUSTOMERS EXPRESSING THEIRSYMPATHIES. WHEN HE COMES TO SHERRYS' MESSAGE, HE LISTENSTHEN REWINDS IT TO WRITE DOWN THE NUMBER. HE PICKS UP THEPHONE AND DIALS THE CANCER SOCIETIES NUMBER AND BEGANS TOTALK.

(RECOMMENDS THEMUSIC FROMDAVID SANBORN,THE DREAM)PLAYS IN THEBACKGROUNDWHILE HE TALKSTO CANCERSOCIETY

FADE IN:

EXT. POSTMAN WALKING UP TO THE DOOR OF THE WAKEMEN'S -MORNING

Allison is asleep due to the pain mangement medication.James goes to the door to sign for a package with Jake byhis side and Rose on his hip . Infromation he waited for,arrives. He puts Rose in the playpin and Jake returned tohis cartoon an tv, with the kids busy, he proceeds to openthe package to find a small brick of marijuana, approved by

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Dr. Franks. He continues to read it's instructions. Then hepicks up the phone to call Sherry for help.

FADE IN:

EXT. FRONT PORCH OF THE WAKEMEN'S - MORNING

SHERRY ARRIVES 20 MINUTES LATER, JUST AFTER WORK, TO HELPJAMES WITH TALKING TO ALLISON ABOUT IT'S USE. ALLSION AWOKETO FIND SHERRY AND JAMES PLAYING WITH THE KIDS ON THE PORCH,STEPS OUT SLOWLY.

SHERRYHey girl, how you feelin'?

ALLISONVery tried and, wait...what are youdoing here?

JAMES(Looks at Sherry) Well, I invitedher over so we can talk. We (useshand gesters to include the threeof them) us, um...Sherry (nods hishead for her cue).

SHERRYI know this is going to sound crazybut, I had some information forJames...for you about painmanagement for colon cancer anddecided to share it with him...youtwo.

ALLISON(Turns her head slightly) What areyou two up to? Spill it.

SHERRYWell you know that my aunt Kayceedied of colon cancer right?

ALLISONRight, and...

SHERRYAnd, well, her doctor prescribedthis certain medicine to help easeher pain and I waswondering...(Allison cuts in)

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ALLISONNo, no way. I don't do drugs thatare not prescribed for me. No way.Marijuana? No.

JAMESWell, it is prescribed to you. Iasked the doctor if he could writeout a prescription for you to tryit. Just see if it helps you withthe pain, for me? Please?

ALLISONJames, Sherry, thanks for yourconcerns, but I don't do streetdrugs. It's gross and to be honest,very wrong.

SHERRYNo, my aunt used it and swares byit. Just try it. All you have to dois try. If you don't like it,(whispers) you should, it gets youhigh. You don't have to continue.

ALLISONFor pain control? If I get high offthis stuff, that's it. I wont do itanymore.

JAMESUh, honey, you will get high.That's it's whole purpose. To helpyou forget the pain.

ALLISONWell, how do I do it then?

SHERRYGirl, don't act like you nevertried it during college.Remember...dorm room number 216?(Raises her eyebrows)

JAMESYou never told me about that.

ALLISONI didn't inhale James, it was justto fit in.

SHERRYWhatever Alli.

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ALLISONI only pretended to be high causeyou all were acting like a bunch ofgoofs. And it looked kind of fun.(Laughs)

Sherry takes out some ciggerette papers that she brought withher.

SHERRYOK, so, you take the ciggerettepapers...two perferably. And youlick one end, the end that has thegummed strip, like this (Licks theend) and seal them together. Sortout the seeds and the twigs fromthe pile. Oh, wait. There are noseeds of twigs, what?

JAMESThis is grade A stuff Sherry.

ALLISONAnd how would you know about it'sgrade?

JAMESIt came from the medical board.It's gotta be good. (Smiles atAllison, looks nervously towardsSherry)

ALLISONHow do I know it's not grade A?

SHERRYIt came from a pharmacologist. It'sgrade A. Trust me on that.

Sherry rolls it up and gives it to Allison.

SHERRYDon't be shy, take it.

Allison is very nerves to try it.

ALLISONI don't even own a lighter.

Sherry pulls out a lighter, fast.

SHERRY

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Here, you can have mines. (Smiles)

Allison looks at her like she just grew another head, thenputs the joint in her mouth and lights it. She starts tocough.

JAMESHon, are you ok? (Aids to comforther)

SHERRYYou gotta inhail slowly. Your goingto fast.

ALLISON(Regains her composure) What, areyou an expert on the art ofsmoking? (Jokingly)

SHERRYLet's just say...I have experiance.(Smiles) Now just go slower, take apuff, pull it away, and inhaildeeply.

Allison does just waht Sherry said and exhailes.

ALLISONWow sherry, you are an expert. Ididn't even cough that time.(Coughs, slightly)

SHERRYIt's going to take some time to getused to it. Just go slow at first,then you'll be on you way girl.(pause) I'll go and check on thekids.

Sherry gets up to go to the playroom to check on the kids.Meanwhile, James and Allison are conversating on what toexpect of this 'new' medication for Allison.

FADE IN:

INT. DOCTORS OFFICE - DAY

At her appointment, Allison is about to learn that thecancer is spreading rapidly. Dr. Franks walks into the room.

DR. FRANKS

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Allison, the cancer is spreadingrapidly. There's a chance it couldtake your life in a matter ofmonths. Would you like to rethinkthe chemotheropy treatment?

ALLISONNo, doctor, I said I would neverput my body through that again.It's not that I want to die, it'sthat I don't want to prolong mylife only to suffer through allthat added sickness. Godunderstands, and I wnat you tounderstand too. That's my finalword on that.

JAMESWhat would I do without you? (Getsangry) You have to stop thinkingabout yourself and thionk aboutyour kids and you husband.

ALLISONDoctor...would you please excuse usfor a moment? (Dr. Franks nods hishead and walks out and closes thedoor) James, I have a right to notwant to go through extra sicknessfrom being chemoed up. I'm no goodto anyone on chemo, I just liethere and can't do anything. I'mnot just thinking of myself, I'mthinking of my family. I'm going todie anyways whether or not Icontinue to do chemotheropy. Don'tyou see? The more I suffer, themore you suffer, and Jake and Rosewill suffer. I don't want them tosee me like this. I don't wanttheir last memory of me to be fromthe hospital bed, sick and dying.(Tears flow from ALlisons' cheek) Ilove you. I wouldn't want you tosuffer throught this anymore thanyou already have. Please understandthis James. You have to.

JAMES

(Tearing up) I just don't wanna bealone. It's a scary thought, beingalone. I need you to get well.(Walks over to Allison from the

60.

window) Gosh, I love you. You haveto also understand that this isvewry, very hard on me as well. I'mnot prepared to loose the onlywomen I will ever love. There'sgotta be another opinion,somewhere, somebody knows somethingabout this. People have beatenthis, added extra years to theirlifes.

ALLISONJames, I'm in the last and finalstage of this cancer. There is noother opinions in the last stage.I've accepted that fact that Idon't have much time on this earth.It is what it is honey. Understand.Please.

James walks over to the window and stares out blankly.

CUT TO:

Aggie house. She hears the phone ringing, and answers it.

AGGIE(Cheerfully) Hello! (hears Jamestalking) What?, so how long? (Grabsher mouth and tear up) You gottaget more opinions. (James talks)But how, (Pauses) DAMN! My babysister. (Cries harder) DAMN! (Jamestalks) Yes, I'll keep them for you.Take as long as you want. (Jamestalks) Ok, I will. Take care Jamesand tell Allison I love her...bye.

After Aggie hung up the phone, she sits down to get a hold ofherself. She checks on the sleeping kids and goes to thekitchen to get a cup of tea. At the counter she breaks down intears and smaches the coffee mug on the wall.

FADE IN:

INT. ALLISON'S CUBICLE - AFTERNOON

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AT THE ART MUSEUM, SHERRY HAS JUST BEEN GIVEN WORD THAT HERBEST FRIEND IS DYING. SHE PLOPS DOWN IN HER CHAIR, BEGAINSTO TEAR UP, LOOKS OVER AT ALLISONS' DESK AND REMEMBERS THEGOOD TIMES AT WORK. SHERRY BEGINS TO CRY HARDER AND WALKSOVER TO ALLISONS' DESK AND SITS IN HER CHAIR. WEEPING AS SHELOOKS AT THE FAMILY PICTURES AND THE PICTURE OF THE TWO OFTHEM AT THE AWARDS CEREMONY. MR. CHUMERY WALKS OVER TOCONSOLE SHERRY.

MR. CHUMERYI'm sorry to hear of Allison'scancer spreading. Um, if you wantto take some time off, I canarrange that for you? If you want.(Trying not to make her anymoreupset) With pay.

SHERRYThanks, but I think she wouldrather have me at work. She's likethat you know, she puts otherpeople before herself. She's sweetlike that. (Pauses) You know, shewould say to me, 'Sherry (inAllisons' voice), don't you taketime off just to come and see me,make that money girl'. (Criesharder) I'm sorry.

MR. CHUMERYI'm going to put in for that timeoff for you, Sherry. Go, be withyour best friend. (Smiles)

SHERRYThank you.

Sherry gathers her stuff and the picture of them at the awardsceremony, heads towards the hospital.

FADE IN:

INT. RESIDENCE OF THE WAKEMEN'S - DAY

ALLISON IS GETTING SICKER AND SICKER. JAMES SCHEDULED FOR ANURSE TO COME TO THE HOUSE, FULL TIME, TO HELP TAKE CARE OFALLISON. AS SHE SLIPS IN AND OUT OF CONSIOUSNESS, THE DOCTORRECOMMENDED THAT SHE'D BE BETTER OFF IN THE CARE OF HOSPICE.THEY BRING OVER A BED AND ALL THE EQUIPMENT THAT SHE NEEDSTO STAY ALIVE FOR THE MOMENT.

62.

The nurse has just put an IV in Allisons' arm.

HOSPICE NURSE 1She's becoming dehydrated. (ToJames sitting by her side) Whenthis bag gets low, your going tohave to change it, seeing that myshift will be over at midinght. Doyou know how to change it?

JAMESyes, the hospice doctor scholled mein on it. So, what about eating?Won't she die of malnutrition?

HOSPICE NURSE 1Well, we have set up for thenutritionist to come here for thefeeding tube introduction. They'llshow you how to do that as well.But right now, she's getting theproper vitamins through the IV.This'll sustain her until thenutritionist gets here tomorrow.They'll be here a 8am sharp.

JAMESI know your not a doctor but howlong do you think she'll have tolive?

HOSPICE NURSE 1Your right, I'm not a doctor, and Ican't really give you advice onthat. (Looks at broken heartedJames, feeling guilty) OK, I'vebeen a hospice nurse for over 14years, and from my experiance,well, just looking at her, I cansay about a month or two. I'msorry. (Pauses) But she seemsstrong. Very strong.

JAMES(Nods his head) Yes, she is.

HOSPISE NURSE 1I know I'm not supposed to offerthis but, did you have dinner?would you like me to make yousomething? I can cook it in yourkitchen.

63.

ALLISON(A little above a whisper) Thatwould be great, thank you. Hi baby.

James and the hospice nurse looks at Allison suprisingly.

JAMESHi sweetheart. (Just gazes in hereyes with a big smile)

HOSPICE NURSE 1Ok, what would you like to eat?

ALLISONI know I can't eat anything, hon.SHe's talking to you. (Smiles atJames)

JAMESOh, oh, sorry. Um, anything Iguess.

ALLISON(To the hospice nurse) His favoriteis spagettie with italian sausage.I believe there's some noodles andmeat here. You'll have to look forit, honey go and help her find itplease. (Smiles at James)

JAMESBe right there! Honey, did you hearthe nurse giving her opinion to me,you know...about the time leftthingy?

ALLISONNo. (Knowing that she did overhearthat conversation) No, I didn'tsweetie.

JAMES(Gives Allison a kiss) I'll beright back dear, OK?

ALLISON(Jokingly) I won't move a muscle(Smiles, then closes her eyes)

FADE IN:

64.

INT. WAKEMEN RESIDENCE - NIGHT

Allison has become weaker.

ALLISONJames, when are Rose and Jakecoming home? It's been three weeks.

JAMESTheir on their way. Aggies'bringing them. I don't know what Iwould have done without her help.

ALLISONI know, she's so sweet. We have toget her something to say thanks.

JAMESYou know she won't accept anything.She loves those kids. She'd do justabout anything for you, for us.

ALLISONI know. I hope they get here beforeI need more medication.

Aggie just pulled into the driveway. James meets them at thecar to help get the kids out.

JAMESMommy was just asking about you andyour sister. She'll be glad to seeyou.

JAKEI'll be glad to see her too.

AGGIEHow's she looking?

JAMESBetween you and I, she looks sick.But don't tell her that, she feelsbad enough. With all those tubs andall, she seems to be in an ok mood.

They enter the house and head to the bedroom. Aggie has neverseen her sister look so sick before and hesitant to comecloser to Allison.

ALLISONHey pumpkin. Were you a good boyfor mommy?

65.

JAKEYep, I sure was. Mommy, when areyou going to get out of bed so wecan go to the park?

JAMESJake.

ALLISONSoon, I hope. SO, what did you andyour sister do today?

JAKEI, we made you this get well card.That's where Rose tried to eat it.It's still wet, yuck.

Rose is asleep in her crib. James pulls Aggie aside to talk.

JAMESAggie, the doctors said it would benice if we don't talk about hercondition in front of her, althoughshe's a very strong women.

AGGIEShe looks so fragile. How are youholding up?

JAMESEveryday is like a waiting game.I'm hoping and praying that shewill get better and better, but inreality, everyday she's gettingweaker and weaker. I just wish Ican have more time with her. (Lookstoward his feet) The nurse said shethinks Allison has two to threemonths to live. There's gotta be acure or something out there.

AGGIEJames, you'll only prolong yourrecovery if you keep trying to finda cure or get more opinions. Look,it is what it is and we can't doany thing more to change it. Yourgoing to have to come to grips withit sooner or later. I know it'shard for you, but it's also hard onme too. We had to watch our motherslowly die right in front of my eye

66.

from this disease. No one said it'sgoing to be easy. But time, timeheals all wounds. (James nods hishead) I know, eaiser said thandone. I will help you through this,I love her too, she's my (Begins tocry) only sister.

James tries to comfort Aggie. Allison over hears her sistercrying, but says nothing, pretending to play with Jake.

Aggie finally regains her composure and goes into the room tosit and talk with Allison.

FADE IN:

INT. MASTER BEDROOM OF THE WAKEMEN'S - LATE AFTERNOON

A flood of get well cards and flowers, from friends andother family members, line the bedroom. The fulltime HospiceNurse show James and Aggie how to change the colostopy bagand other minor changeouts. The medication is making hermore and more tired and sleepy. James is always by her side,stroking her hand and hair.

ALLISON BEGINS TO GET SICKER AND MORE SLEEPY. SHE FINDSJAMES ALWAYS BY HER SIDE WHEN SHE OPENS HER EYES.

JAMES(Slightly above a whisper) Heyhoney, how are you feeling today?

ALLISON(Slowly) So, so tired. These drugsreally knock you out.

JAMESSo your not in any pain oranything, are you?

ALLISONNo, sweetheart, I'm fine. I justwish I could get out of bed andtake Jake to the park. I miss thosedays.

JAMESHoney, your talking as though youwon't be here tomorrow.

ALLISON

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I'm sorry dear. I'm just board dayin and day out lying here nottaking care of my family. It sucks,big time. (Smiles, slight giggle)

JAMESWell we'll take care of you. Youjust rest and enjoy a clearconsious. We are at your diposal.

Suddenly, Allison rolls over to the side of the bed to throwup, as James catches it in a bucket, he calls out to thehospice nurse.

JAMESNURSE! NURSE, COME QUICK, ALLISONIS SICK!

The hospice nurse rushes to the room to help James andAllison.

JAMES(Worried look in his eyes) What'sthe matter with her, why is shegetting sick like that?

HOSPICE NURSE 1Not to worry James, it's themedication that's causing her tohave an upset stomach. And with hernot eating much of anythinganymore, it's only going to upsether stomach even more. (Turns toAllison) We're going to have toincrease you food intake to helpstifle these episodes fromhappening. (Allison, with her headin the bucket, nods yes).

JAMESYou had me worried. I didn't knowwhat to do. I guess I did the rightthink by calling the nurse.(Smilesat Allison, now laid back in thebed as he gently strokes herforhead with a damp cloth) Are youalright now?

ALLISON(Whispers) Yes, as long as I haveyou by my side.

James put his forehead aginst hers.

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JAMES(Whispers)I'll never leave yourside.

James kisses Allison on the forehead.

FADE IN:

INT. MASTER BEDROOM - MORNING

DR. FRANKS GIVING ALLISON AN EXAM IN THE BEDROOM.

Not looking very promising, Dr. Franks pulls his stethiscopeaway from sleeping Allison to deliver the bad news to James.

JAMESDoc, what is it?

DR. FRANKSI'm sorry to be the one to tell youthis James, but I fear thatAllisons' condition is worsening bythe day. She might not make itthrough the week.

James drops to his knees, folds his hands in his lap, looks uptowards the ciling with a blank stare, and lets out a hugecry.

JAMESMy God, my God, no no no no no NO!No, no, no. (Cries uncontrollably)This is not the way it's supposedto be. Please don't take my heartaway. Pleasssseeeee....

Dr. Franks tries to comfort James, as he starts to cry. Aggierushes to the room to see what all the comotion is about. Shediscovers the Doctor and James in tears.

AGGIEWhat? Doctor...what's happening?

Dr. Franks wipes away his tears.

DR. FRANKSIt's Allison. She may not make itthrough the week. I'm so sorry. Idelivered both of her children, Iknow what a wonderful person she is(tears up), I'm so very sorry. (Hepacks up his bag and walks toward

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the door and says in a soft voice)If I were you, I'd gather thefamily together before it's toolate. (Walks out, sound of thefront door closing).

Allison lies in the bed motionless, but still alive. Aggie andJames, each, take her hand and cry.

FADE IN:

EXT. WAKEMEN RESIDENCE - LATE AFTERNOON

FAMILY MEMBERS COME FROM TO SEE ALLISON AND OFFER THEIRSUPPORT TO JAMES, THE KIDS, AND AGGIE.

James is in the kitchen making tea for the guests. Sherrywalks into the kitchen to find James haning over the countercrying silently.

SHERRYJames, are you ok?

JAMES(Trying to regain composure) no, mywife is dying, and there's nothingnobody could do. I'm helpless, andscared. This is the only way I knowhow to react. I'm loosing my bestfriend, my heart. (Turns to Sherryfor a comfort).

SHERRY(Whispers) Cry James, cry...let itout. You know I'll always be herefor you. After all, (starts tochoke up) she's my best friend too!

It's 8:40pm, people start to leave and wish James, Sherry, andAggie their prayers.

NEIGHBOR 1James, if there is anything I cando, just give me a call. I'm justright next door. (Slight pause) Ifit means anything, Allison is themost beautiful person in the worldand would do anything for anyone.She's a great person and I'mblessed to have known her. Takecare James, Aggie. (Closes the

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front door behind him)

JAMESSherry, aggie, could you stay thenight tonight?

AGGIESure. Let me go home to get someclothes, be right back.

SHERRYThanks James, I'll be glad to.

JAMESThank you two fro being her forher. (Starts to tear up) She wouldhave asked you herself, I know it.(Smiles)

Aggie calls home to tell her husband about the overnight stayand heads for her car. Sherry comforts James as she pick upRose, James picks up Jake for a group hug.

With Rose asleep in his arms, and Jake asleep on the oppositeside of the couch, James presses play to watch some of hishome movies, with smiles on his face and tears in his eyes.Giggling at times. after a while, he gets up to put Jake inhis bed and rose in her crib. He visits Allison in theirbedroom, still asleep, he takes her hand and careses it, andcries as he falls alseep with her hand in his.

MUSIC PLAYS INTHE BACKGROUNDBY ?

FADE IN:

EXT. BACKYARD DAFFODIL GARDEN - DAY

SUN IS HIGH IN THE SKY WITH NO CLOUDS IN SIGHT.

James left Aggie and Sherry with Allison and the kids as heescapes to the darkroom.

There, he developes the pictures he didn't have a chance tobecause of Allisons' sudden turn for the worse. As hedevlopes the pictures, he finds one the nurse took in thehospital of Allison holding new born Rose, Jake and himselfby her side as a happy family. He smiles at the picture thenhung it on the line to dry.

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JAMES(Talks to himself) She's sobeautiful. So beautiful. (Starts tocry at the photograph, and in asightly elevating voice) Why do youhave to take her from me? (Jamesgets angry, then slams the picturebase stuff(?) off the table) Whyher Lord, why?

As he drops to the floor with his head in his hands. After aslight pause, he lifts his head and turn to the mess he made.He stares at the picture that was in it. It seems to be anblur of something standing off in the distance behingAllison's hospital bed.

JAMES(Wiping away his tears to get abetter view) What is that?

He grabs the fan to dry it faster so he can show it to Aggieand Sherry. James rushing to the bedroom to show them of hisdiscovery.

JAMESAggie, Sherry, you gotta look atthis. What is that?

AGGIE(Grabs her mouth with the freehand) Ohhhh, myyyy, gosh! Thatlooks like my mother.

SHERRYWhat? Let me see that. (Sherrytakes a look and gets freaked outby what she saw and hans thepicture back with her head turned).My hair just stood straight up.

JAMESThat can't be. It's just notpossible...is it?

AGGIESometimes, our loved ones from theother side visits us. I'm notentirely sure why, but they do.

JAMESSo, your telling me, that the dead,sorry, the people from the otherside can come and visit us anytime

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they like?

AGGIEYes, especially when they knowtheir needed. I have this bookabout what happens to people whopass over to the other side. Itsays, if the people here, you know,us, is experiencing some type oftrama or just simply call theirname, they come to you.

SHERRYSpooky. You know, I think my momcame on day and slapped me upsidemy head when I was punishingWalter, her youngest grandson. Yea,slapped my in the back of my head,hard too. He was saved from aspanking that day. (All laugh)

AGGIENo, serioulsy though, they do comewhen you need them, but if yourmind is closed to the fact, youwon't be able to feel theirpresence.

They gather to take a look at the picture again.

JAMESWow! That is kind of scary.

FADE IN:

INT. WAKEMEN RESIDENCE - DAY

DR. FRANKS VISITS, AND AFTER HIS EXAMINATION, HE ASKS JAMESTO GO TO ANOTHER ROOM TO TALK.

DR. FRANKSJames, I'm afraid we nearing theend. By this time, tomorrow, shewill have lapsed into a coma andthe only thing keeping her alive isthe will to live.

JAMESWhy so soon, so fast? Most peoplewith this type of cancer, from whatI heard and read, die much much

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slower that this.

DR.FRANKSIt's because of the chemotheropytreatments. They prolong theirlives because they took thetreatment. It's too late to startthat for Allison now, it'll onlymake things worse for her at thispoint and it won't do any goodanymore.

JAMESSo, (slight pause) should we sayour good-buys now? (Dr. Franks nodyes) This is too hard, I can't doit, I just can't. (Puts his head inhis hands) It's just way too harddoc.

DR. FRANKSYour going to have to let her goJames. She's suffering because shethinks she needs to be here for youand the kids. Your going to have totell her to let go...and go withGod. (Puts his hand on James'sshoulder) I know it's hard for you.Allison is one of a kind, but don'tprolong her suffering. She needs toknow that you'll be alright here.James, you have to let her gobefore she expires without herknowing you'll be fine. (James nodsyes, but is still reluctant to sayhis good-byes)

JAMESOk, doctor. I'll try.

Dr. Franks pulls out some obudsmen brochers and hands them toJames.

DR. FRANKSTake care, good luck James. (As hewalks toward the door)

JAMESThanks. (He looks at the brochers)

FADE IN:

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INT. MASTER BEDROOM - NIGHT

JAMES, ROSE (ASLEEP IN THE STROLLER), JAKE, AGGIE, SHERRYAND JAMES'S MOTHER ARE GATHERED AROUND ALLISON'S BEDPRAYING.

SOFT MUSICPLAYING WHILETHE FAMILYPRAYS OVERALLISON

FADE IN:

EXT. WAKEMEN'S FRONT YARD WITH GETWELL BALLOONS AND TEDDYBEARS - MORNING

PEOPLE WHO KNOWS THE FAMILY COME AND GO, LEAVING FLOWERS,TEDDIE BEARS FOR THE KIDS, SYMPATHY CARDS, ROSERIES,PICTURES OF THE HAPPIER TIMES WITH ALLISON, AND WISHING THEFAMILY WELL ALL DAY LONG.

LATER

Dr. Franks is one of the last visitors to leave. He gives hera final exam.

DR. FRANKS(To James) Such an extrodenarywomen she is. Life has it'scruelties and for most who fightaginst it, often loose the battle.I wish I could offer you solace inthis time of trial.

JAMES(Sad) Thank you doctor. It's goodknowing that I can trust you indoing all you can for us. We areindebted to you for all you havedone. I thank you, for Allison andfor the kids and me. (Gets up togive Dr. Franks a hug) Thank you somuch for being there.

DR. FRANKSYour truely welcomed James.

JAMESYou know, sometimes I think thereis somebody, somewhere, with a curefor this horrible disease and they

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just don't want to share it.(Slight giggle) I know doc, I soundcrazy, but we mastered flying intooutter space, extrodinarycommunication technologies that wecan communicate with people allover the world, and all withouttalking or leaving our houses. It'sjust hard to believe that there'sno cure for cancer anywhere in theworld. (Starts to cry) And for thepeople who suffer through thisdisease, the families and thecountless friends that they'llleave behind...unwillingly. It'sjust not fair. It's just not fair.I can't say goodbye, How can onesay goodbye to the life they onlyknow, the love that they only know.

DR. FRANKS(In a sympithetic voice) I don'tthink your crazy James. There mayjust be a cure out there and theirnot sharing it with the populationyet. I often think that myself.Yes, I know it's hard to saygoodbye to the one you love. Mywife of 42 years passed away frothe same cancer. I was just likeyou James, scrambling to find acure, getting second, third, andeven forth opinions before thecancer spread and took her life.But, I did have a chance to saygoodbye. You need to make yourpeace with her before it's toolate.

James takes her hand and stares at her.

JAMESShe's so beautyful. I can't let hergo, I need her here with me.Selfish enough as it sounds, Ican't imagine life without her init.

DR. FRANKS(Sympithetic) It hurts and it'sgoing to hurt for some time Jmaes,she's lapsing into a coma, and forwhat I beleive, I don't think

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people can hear once thay reachedthe comatose state. Say yourgoodbuys before it's too late. Youdon't want to loose the one chanceto tell her you love her and youwill be alright raising herbeautyful little Angels. She wouldwant to know that.

JAMESI can't. I don't want her to leaveme.

DR. FRANKSShe has to leave, she's suffering.She's going to leave, whether yourready or not. It was just as hardfor me to say goodbye to my wife,but I knew she was leaving andthat's why you must make peace withher. James, by the break of dawn,she will have expired.

James lays his head on her hand trying to find the strength totell his beloved wife, his lifetime love, to let go and gowith God.

JAMESDo you think it would be ok if thekids and I slept in the bed withher tonight?

DR. FRANKS(Smiles) Yes James, yes. That wouldbe fine.

The doctor grabs his bag and equipment and leaves. James getsthe sleeping children from their rooms and puts them in thebed next to Allison. He lies down in the bed and they all fallasleep.

FADE IN:

INT. MASTER BEDROOM - MORNING

JAKE AND ROSE STILL ASLEEP, JAMES IS PREPARED TO SAYS HISGOODBYES.

JAMES(Crying) Allison sweetheart, thisis the most difficult thing for me

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to say, it's so hard for me to say.But first...(Music starts) Thankyou for giving me two beautyfulchildren. Thank you for showing mehow to love, (Broken up cry) Thankyou for being in my life and beingapart of my life. For those whodidn't get the chance to know you,were missing out on a chance toknow a real earth Angel. I haveyour two little Angels to lookafter...we'll be fine.(Pauses)Honey, (Cries harder) go now gowith God. He wants his Angel back.

James kisses Allison on her forehead and says goodbye. Allisoncomes out of the coma, just enough to smile and say good bye,with a single tear following. At 8:38am on January 3rd, 39year old Allison passed away with her husband and children byher side.

FADE IN:

EXT. LOCAL CHURCH - AFTERNOON

People fill in the church pews and people scattered outsideand inside shaking hands and hugging, remembering the goodtimes, show each other their pictures and their stories ofAllison as apart of their lives.

THE PREACHER ISPREACHING ASPEOPLE VIEWALLISON FOR THELAST TIME(MUSIC PLAYS,RECOMMENDS SONG"IN THE ARMS OFAN ANGEL" BYSARAHMCLACHLAN)

FADE IN:

EXT. HILL OF THE CEMETERY - LATER AFTERNOON

At the cemetary, people gather for the final service. A streamof tears, sad faces, and a day that no one wanted to see.James is sitting on a chair in front of the casket where hisbeautiful wife lays. The Preacher is perfoming the ceremonywhile James breaks down crying holding Rose on his lap and

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Jake sitting next to him, looking down.

PREACHERIn the sweat of thy face shalt thoueat bread, til thou return onto theground; for out of it wast thoutaken; for dust thou art, and untodust shalt thou return. In sure andcertain hope of the resurrection toeternal life through our Lord JesusChrist, we commend to Almighty Godour Sister, Allison Marie Wakemen,and we commit her body to theground (James cries loudly followedby Jake and Rose); earth to earth,ashes to ashes, dust to dust (thepreacher tears up as he makes thecross symble on the coffin). TheLord bless her and keep her. (Aftera brief pause) The Lord make hisface to shine upon her and give herpeace...(everyone) Amen. (Pauses) Iwould like to say, Allison was atruly special person. She not onlyhad numerous friends, butbefriended strangers and theforgotten people of the world. Iv'eknown Allison since she was kneehigh to a grass hopper (mournersgiggle) and even then, she wouldgive her love to everyone whom shecame in contact with. (Starts totear up, choke up) I guess Godwanted his Angel back. (Wipes histears away) She will be sorellymissed by all.

The funeral director, wiping his tears away, whispers toJames. James stands up to release the one hundred white andyellow butterfies as the director picks up the brightest andbiggest daffodil and gives it to James. Everyone pauses tolook up at the butterflies fly, then procede by picking 1daffodil from the yellow and white flower arrangement. Jamesstands up at the podium.

JAMESEveryone, I would like to thank youfor coming here today. (Cries) Iknow she's dancing with joy to seethat the world loves her. I'm notgood at giving speeches likeAllison was (James and everyonechuckles) but, I do thank you for

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everything you have done for me,Allison, Rose, and Jake. So...thankyou! (Leaves the podium crying)

Aggie takes the kids, gives Rose to her husband, and walks tothe podium.

AGGIEEveryone, as Allison's lastrequest, there will be acelebration in honor of my sisterthis friday at her favorite park,The Flower Garden on west Arlingtonstreet at 2pm. If you'd like, youcan bring a hot dish or one of herfavorite deserts. Thank you forcoming.

Everyone starts to go to their cars. James is left standingat the casket, very sad.

JAKEDaddy, when will Mommy wake up?

AGGIE(Looking at James, who'sunresponsive) uh, Jake honey, whydon't you go with Rose and(Husband) to the car, ok sweetie?

JAKEOk, but I want an answer soon.(Walks to (husband) and takes hishand as they walk to the car)

AGGIE(Chuckles) That son of yours.(Pauses) James, try to be strongfor Jake and Rosa. (She puts herhand on his shoulder) I know ithurts. (Starts to cry) But timeshould heal all wounds. She wantsus to be strong for the kids.(Pauses)

JAMES(Turns to Aggie, looks her in theeyes and gives her a hug and let'sout a strong cry) I'll try, thatall I can give right now. (Voicecracking) My Angel, my world.(Wipes his tears) All I can do istry...try.

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AGGIE(Above a whisper)Take as long asyou want, we'll keep the kids foryou. Ok? (Looks toward the car) I'dbetter get going, are you going tobe alright James?

JAMES(Nods yes) Yea, I'll be alright.I'm just going to sit here with mywife for a while. Thanks. (As Aggiestands up to leave) Oh, and tell(husband) I said thank you forkeeping an eye on the kids for me,and thank you too.

AGGIEYou are so welcomed James. I'll dothat. (Starts to walk away) Comingover later?

JAMESI don't know. I just may. Bye.

AGGIEBye! (Walks to the car)

James continues to sit there, starring at her coffin, lostin love, watching a yellow butterfly land on top of thecoffin, opening and closing it's wings steadily, but slowly,before it flies off.

FADE IN:

INT. ENTERING THE KITCHEN OF HIS HOUSE - NEAR DUSK

James returns home, puts the daffodil on the counter, fixeshimself a drink, and sits in front of the TV. After a fewseconds, he reaches for the home movie that he made before herdeath. He walks to the DVD player and inserts the DVD into theplayer, returns to the couch, and presses play.

A montage of happy moments of his family and their friendsmakes James smile, laugh, and cry. (Music plays while hewatches)

JAMES(Whispers) Allison, I love you! (Hecontinues to watch the videos andsoon falls assleep on the couch)

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DREAM SEQUENCE.

JAMES IS DREAMING AS IF ALLISON WAS STILL ALIVE. DANCINGTOGETHER, LAUGHING, PLAYING WITH THE KIDS, RUNNING THROUGHHER DAFFODIL GARDEN HAPPY AS CAN BE.

James is smiling in his sleep, then wakes up to the TV showingthe end of the home movie. He sits up, realized it was adream, and starts to cry again. He noticed that the daffodil,that was on the kitchen counter, is now on the coffee table,next to him. He picks up the flower and smells it, thencraddles and embraces it.

SONG PLAYS,(RECOMMENDS THESONG, DREAMINGWITH A BROKENHEART BY JOHNMAYER.)

James lies on the couch wanting to go back to his dream.

FADE IN:

INT. KITCHEN OF THE WAKEMEN'S - MORNING

James fills his coffee mug and walks out to the daffodilgarden that's in full bloom. Beautiful, yellow, bright bigdaffodils, swaying in the wind. He sits and enjoys thiswonderful site. He jolts up with an idea.

MUSIC (SOFTJAZZ) PLAYESWHILE HE SITSAND WATCHES THEGARDEN

CUT TO:

James scrambles through his late wifes paintings, rememberingthe picture of the perfect daffodil that he once recorded. Hefinds it, holds it up at face level, walks out to the gardenand compares it to the daffodil in the middle of the bunch.

JAMES

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(Slight whisper) Unreal! Wow.(Looking at both, the painting andthe growing daffodil in the garden)This is a master piece. (He dashesin the house)

James is talking on the phone with the art musume whereAllison worked.

(HAPPY MUSICPLAYS)

MATCH CUT:

INT. MUSUME - EVENING

James stands in front of his late wifes painting, in the mainhall, where everyone who walks in, first sees. He steps backand smiles. Rose, who can stand on her own, smiles at thepainting and her daddy. Jake, tries to draw the painting inhis sketch book, smiling at James as they make eye contact.

The whole department, of which Allison worked alongside, isviewing the painting, along with the whole Wakemen and friendsfamily. A silhouette of Allison is seen, slightly off to theright, standing at the painting.

FADE OUT

END SCENE

MUSIC PLAYS, CREDITS ROLL.

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