BEST KEPT BRAVERMAN SECRETS

Written by
Melissa Molina

Based on the show Parenthood

1318 Center St. Union N.J. 07083

(908) 477-7946

TEASER
FADE IN:
INT. JOEL AND JULIAS KITCHEN- DAY.
Victor, Julia, and Joel are having breakfast as Sydney enters.
SYDNEY
Dad, can you move over a seat?
Why?

JOEL

SYDNEY
I dont want to sit next to someone.
JOEL
Is there a reason?
Julia notices the conflict.
JULIA
Sydney, Im not going to serve you.
Youre old enough to get your own
breakfast.
Sydney gets up to get her food. Julia takes Sydneys seat,
forcing Sydney to sit next to Victor.
JULIA (CONTD)
Whats wrong Sydney?
SYDNEY
I dont like this seat.
Why?

JULIA

VICTOR
Because Im here.
JULIA
Of course thats not why.
SYDNEY
Yes it is exactly why.
JULIA
Sydney, tell Victor youre sorry and
didnt mean it.

2.
SYDNEY
But Im not sorry, and I did mean it.
JULIA
Go get ready for school. We will talk
about this later.
Sydney and Victor go upstairs.
JULIA (CONTD)
Joel, what did I do wrong?
Nothing

JOEL

JULIA
I cant even parent my own children
correctly.
JOEL
Julia, youre a perfect mother. They
just need to learn how to get along.
JULIA
I could take them out somewhere...
JOEL
Theres a field trip at school soon.
JULIA
Maybe I can ask the school to put
them in the same group.
JOEL
I can do that now, Ill take them to
school.
Julia calls for Sydney and Victor. One after the other they
exit the house. Joel makes a surprised face at Julia and
leaves after them.

INT. CROSBY AND JASMINES BEDROOM- DAY

Jasmine rolls over and whispers to Crosby.
JASMINE
Crosby, the baby is crying.
CROSBY
How do you know?
Crosby hears the baby cry.

3.

Oh.

CROSBY (CONTD)

Jasmine gives Crosby a peck on the cheek.

Please.
Oh, okay.
Thank you.

JASMINE
CROSBY
JASMINE

A moment passes. Jasmine looks over to Crosby who has fallen

back asleep. Enter Jabbar.
JABBAR
The baby is crying.
Jasmine sighs and sits up.
JASMINE
Ill be right there.
Jasmine gets out of bed to go to the baby.
INT. ADAM AND KRISTINAS LIVING ROOM.
Adam is watching a game on t.v. as Kristina is putting her
coat on.
ADAM
Where are you going?
KRISTINA
We are going to look over posters for
the campaign.
ADAM
Okay. Cant wait to see them.
Kristina kisses Adam and exits. Adam continues watching the
game until he hears crying.
MAX
Norah cut her hair.
What?

ADAM

MAX
Why cant I cut my hair?

4.
ADAM
What do you mean Norah cut her hair?
MAX
She cut her hair.
Adam goes to Norah who has a pair of small scissors in one
hand, and in the other is pulling her hair. A chunk of her
hair is on the ground.
Max!
Yes.

ADAM
MAX

ADAM
Where did she get this pair of
scissors?
MAX
I left them there.
Why?

ADAM

MAX
I finished using them.
ADAM
Your mother isMAX
Wasnt it your responsibility to
watch her.
Yes, but-

ADAM

MAX
Then not my problem.
Max begins leaving.
ADAM
Max. Dont tell your mother.
Max exits motioning his hand in agreement.
INT. SARAHS APARTMENT- DAY
Sarah walks into the living room in her pajamas. Drew
surprises her.

5.
SARAH
Drew! You look great!
Sarah hugs him excitedly.
Come, put your things on the couch.
Hows College? Are you making
friends?
DREW
Yeah, I love college.
SARAH
And your classes? How are they? Are
they hard?
DREW
Theyre fine. Im sort of hungry
though.
SARAH
Here, let me take this.
Sarah takes Drews bag and puts it on the couch.
DREW
Is there anything to eat?
SARAH
There might be some leftover Chinese
food in the fridge.
Okay.

DREW

SARAH
You just have to heat it up.
DREW
Okay, Ill be right back.
Drew takes his coat off and puts it and his phone by his bag
on the couch. Drew goes to the kitchen. Drews phone rings.
Sarah looks over then back at the kitchen. The phone rings
again. Sarah looks at the screen.
CLOSE UP ON PHONE: A BLURRY IMAGE OF WHAT LOOKS LIKE A GUYS
ARMS AROUND A SLEEPING DREW. THE MYSTERY GUY HAS SHORT HAIR
AND A PLAIN T-SHIRT. SARAHS FACE IS TAKEN OVER BY SURPRISE
AND SHE QUICKLY PUTS THE PHONE BACK. CLOSE UP ON SARAHS
FACE.
END TEASER

6.
ACT ONE
INT. SARAHS APARTMENT- MOMENTS LATER
Sarah is pacing along side the couch and peaking into the
kitchen. She takes the phone again and runs to the bathroom.
She begins to look through their messages. The sender is from
Alex.
CLOSE UP ON PHONE: ALEX- WE SHOULD GO TO THE GAY PRIDE EVENT
NEXT WEEKEND. DREW- SOUNDS LIKE A GREAT IDEA. ALEX- CANT
WAIT TO SEE YOU AGAIN. DREW- ME TOO. MAYBE SOON?
Sarah scrolls down more.
CLOSE UP ON PHONE: I LOVE YOU
DREW
Mom? Where are you?
Sarah jumps and hurriedly runs into the living room to return
the phone back where it was. Drew just enters the room.
DREW (CONTD)
Whered you go?
SARAH
Just brushing my teeth.
Sarah notices the phone is still on the screen she left it at.
Drew walks towards the phone. The phone automatically shuts
off.

INT. SYDNEY AND VICTORS SCHOOL- DAY

Between classes in a hallway. Sydney is walking to her next
class.
SCHOOL KID
Whats wrong princess?
SYDNEY
Im perfect thank you.
SCHOOL KID
You got a bad grade in art today
right?
SYDNEY
Thats none of your concern. Go away.

7.
SCHOOL KID
Dont you wish that bad grade could
just go away?
Victor is seen walking towards Sydney.
SYDNEY
It will, just like you.
VICTOR
Whats wrong?
SYDNEY
Nothing. Just ignore him.
SCHOOL KID
Well I know who can help you with
art. Someone who got an A, right
Victor?
VICTOR
Do you need help with art Sydney?
SYDNEY
No, I dont need anyones help. And
definitely not yours.
SCHOOL KID
This girl is more of a princess than
I thought.
VICTOR
Hey! Leave her alone.
SCHOOL KID
Why are you her prince?
Victor launches at the boy with a punch. He gets off the kid,
and turns to Sydney.
VICTOR
I can help you see.
Sydney slaps victor.
SYDNEY
Im not a princess. I dont need
help.

8.
INT. CROSBY AND JASMINES HOME- DAY
Jasmine is washing some dishes as Crosby enters the kitchen.
Crosby gives Jasmine a kiss.
JASMINE
Dont forget to sign that paper for
the field trip Jabbar wants to go on.
CROSBY
Okay, will do. Where are they going
anyway?
JASMINE
Roller-skating. And its actually
where the two of you are going.
CROSBY
Oh, he wants me to be a chaperone?
JASMINE
Yeah, it means a lot to him. Remember
to sign the paper. Its in the living
room.
No problem.

CROSBY

EXT. SYDNEY AND VICTORS SCHOOL- DAY

Julia, Victor, and Sydney are walking towards the car.
JULIA
Victor why would you punch a kid?
Victor doesnt answer.
JULIA (CONTD)
Sydney, why would you slap your own
brother?
SYDNEY
It wasnt my fault.
JULIA
Was it your hand?
But-

SYDNEY

JULIA
The teacher saw you.

9.
They get into the car.
JULIA (CONTD)
Now neither of you can go on the
field trip.
SYDNEY
Who cares about that anyway?
VICTOR
I do. I was excited. What if I never
learn.
JULIA
Of course you will.
SYDNEY
He will probably be horrible at it.
JULIA
Sydney! Victor, I promise you will
learn. In fact... Ill teach you
right now.
What!

SYDNEY

JULIA
Sydney! Were going home, then
walking to the park.

INT. TOYS R US/ BABYS R US- DAY

Crosby notices Adam on line, and goes to stand behind him.
Adam is holding a lot of baby hats.
ADAM
Hey Crosby, getting things for the
baby?
Adam looks to see video games in his hand.
ADAM (CONTD)
Or yourself? Arent you a little too
old for video games?
CROSBY
No, actually. This is for Jabbar. I
forgot him at a game and promised him
a game.

10.
ADAM
That cant be a good lesson for him.
No, no-

CROSBY

Crosby looks at Nora.

CROSBY (CONTD)
What happened to her forehead?
ADAM
Just an accident.
CROSBY
Her hair too?
Adam sighs.

EXT. PARK- DAY

Victor is already skating in circles confidently. Sydney is
moving cautiously with each step. Julia is still putting her
roller blades on.
VICTOR
Are you okay Sydney?
SYDNEY
Im fine. Are you?
Yeah.

VICTOR

Sydney tries catching up to Victor. She almost falls.

Careful.

VICTOR (CONTD)

SYDNEY
I dont need to be careful. Im
already faster than you.
Sydney speeds up.
SYDNEY (CONTD)
Lets see who can go faster.
VICTOR
I dont know.

11.
SYDNEY
Because Im faster.
Victor and Sydney start racing each other. Julia just stands
up in her roller blades when Victor and Sydney turn the corner
and fly into her. Julia falls on her arm, and is in pain.
VICTOR
Julia, are you okay?
Julia sits up and holds her left arm that looks irregular.
SYDNEY
It was Victors fault.

INT. ADAM AND KRISTINAS HOME- NIGHT

Adam just finished changing Noras diaper. The doorbell rings.
Adam walks to the door with Nora. He opens the door to Sarah
who walks right past him and into the living room.
ADAM
Good evening?
SARAH
Are you busy?
A little.

ADAM

SARAH
Drews gay. And hes ashamed of it.
Hes keeping it a secret, and IADAM
Stop. Did Drew tell you this?
SARAH
No. But I went through his messages
with a guy named Alex, and I saw a
photo of them laying down together.
And theyre going to the gay pride
event together. And they love each
otherADAM
But you didnt actually talk to Drew?
SARAH
No, how could I? He must be afraid.
Could you talk with him for me?

12.
ADAM
I don't know. You shouldnt have gone
through his messages.
SARAH
Im his mother
ADAM
Regardless. You have to give him
privacy. Youre probably
overreacting.
SARAH
Would you please just talk with him?
If hes anything like the rest of
this family. He will keep it a
secret.
ADAM
Okay, I will.
Sarah begins to leave.
SARAH
Thank you so much.
She turns back to Adam.
SARAH (CONTD)
What happened to Nora?

INT. JULIA AND JOELS HOME- NIGHT

Julia is sitting on the couch. Joel walks in from work.
Hey

JOEL

Julia is silent.
JOEL (CONTD)
Whats wrong?
Joel walks towards her to face her. Julia motions her cast to
show him.
JOEL (CONTD)
What happened?

13.
JULIA
I took Sydney and victor roller
blading, and I fell.
JOEL
Is it broken?
JULIA
The doctor said its broken.
Joel sits next to Julia on the couch, and gives her a kiss.
JOEL
So, you broke your left arm this
time?
JULIA
Last time was ice skating. Its not
the same thing.
Joel laughs.
JOEL
Julia, youve broken both arms
involving skates.
Joel gives Julia a kiss.
JOEL (CONTD)
Werent victor and sydney going on
that field trip?
JULIA
They got in a fight, and arent
allowed to. Sydney hit victor.
Why?

JOEL

JULIA
She wont say. Is this my fault?
JOEL
No, julia youre a good mother. We
just have to punish Sydney more.
JULIA
Im going to bed. You can go talk
with her.
Julia kisses Joel and goes up stairs to bed.

14.
INT. CROSBY AND JASMINES HOME- NIGHT
Crosby, Jasmine, Jabbar, and Renne are having dinner.
JASMINE
(to Jabbar) Why are you so quiet?
RENNE
Maybe hes been playing too many
video games.
CROSBY
What does that have to do with being
quiet?
RENNE
Video games dont teach good lessons.
Renne smirks at Crosby indicating that she knows about him
bribing Jabbar with video games.
JASMINE
Are you done with your food?
Jamine takes Jabbars plate. Jasmine and Renne begin picking
up the table and go into the kitchen.
CROSBY
Whats up buddy? Why so quiet?
Jabbar looks down, ignoring Crosby.
CROSBY (CONTD)
Is it your grandma?
No.
What is it?

JABBAR
CROSBY

JABBAR
You didnt sign the permission form.
I cant go.
CROSBY
Was that due today?
Jabbar is silent.
CROSBY (CONTD)
How about another video game? Thats
better than roller blading right?

15.

Not really

JABBAR

CROSBY
Ill make it up to you.
Renne walks in.
RENNE
Make what up?

INT. ZEEK AND CAMILLES HOUSE- NIGHT

Sarah, Drew, Amber and Ryan are over for dinner. Drews phone
rings.
DREW
Ill be right back.
Drew goes outside.
Whos that?

ZEEK

SARAH
I dont know... Probably a friend.
CAMILLE
Just a friend?
SARAH
Is dinner almost ready? Smells like
its burning?
CAMILLE
Oh no It cant be burning.
Camille goes to the kitchen.
ZEEK
So who is Drew on the phone with?
SARAH
I saw a message on his phone by
mistake from his boyfriend. There was
a photo of the two together.
AMBER
Are you sure you arent imagining
things?

16.
SARAH
No, Im not. They even plan to go to
the gay pride parade together.
AMBER
Mom, everyone goes to that.
SARAH
I cant believe hes keeping it from
us.
ZEEK
Ill talk with him.
No dont.

SARAH

ZEEK
Why not? He needs to have confidence
as a Braverman man.
AMBER
You guys are being ridiculous. Youre
probably overreacting. Its not big
deal.
Drew walks back In with a big smile on his face.
ZEEK
Well, I havent seen you smile that
wide since you were a baby.
Sarah looks over at Amber as if to prove her point.
END OF ACT ONE

17.
ACT TWO
INT. ADAM AND KRISTINAS HOME- DAWN
Adam wakes up.
CLOSE UP ON ALARM CLOCK: 6:00.
Adam goes to check on Nora. He pushes the knit hat over her
scar. Getting back in bed he wakes Kristina.
KRISTINA
Why are you up?
ADAM
Just checking on Nora.
Is she okay?

KRISTINA

ADAM
Yeah everything is fine. Go back to
sleep.
Kristina faces Adam.
KRISTINA
Okay. I got in late last night and
didnt get to tell you that I want to
have a photo shoot soon for the
campaign.
Worry crosses Adams face.
Okay.

ADAM

Kristina kisses Adam, and turns back to fall asleep.

Adam looks a little worried.

INT. SARAHS APARTMENT- DAY

Sarah is sleeping when the door bell rings. She opens the door
to find Zeek.
ZEEK
Morning sunshine.

18.
SARAH
Dad. What are you doing here?
Zeek walks past Sarah and into the living room. Drew is
sleeping on the couch.
ZEEK
Wakey, wakey.
Sarah stares at her dad still half asleep.
SARAH
Im making coffee, do you want some?
Sarah goes into the kitchen.
ZEEK
No, this shouldnt take long.
Zeek stands over Drew.
Wake up!

ZEEK (CONTD)

Drew opens his eyes and sits up.

Grandpa?

DREW

Zeek sits next to Drew.

ZEEK
I need to speak with you.
Um- okay.

DREW

ZEEK
Look. The Braverman men are proud of
who they are. Theyre confident.
Sarah peaks in.
ZEEK (CONTD)
They dont keep secrets.
Sarah laughs. Zeek looks at Sarah.
SARAH
Oh- sorry. Ill go back to brewing
some coffee.
Sarah goes back into the kitchen.

19.
ZEEK
You are a Braverman man.
Okay-

DREW

ZEEK
So grow up would you, and stop
keeping to yourself so muchSarah walks in pulling Zeek from the couch.
SARAH
Okay now Dad. Talk is over.
Sarah pushes Zeek out the door. Before closing the door Zeek
pops his head back in.
ZEEK
Think about it. Well talk again.
Sarah shuts the door.
DREW
What was that about?
Sarah shakes her head.
SARAH
I dont know.
Sarah Shrugs, and takes a sip of her coffee.

INT. ADAM AND KRISTINAS HOME- DAY

SARAH, DREW, AND AMBER ARE IN THE ENTRANCE.
ADAM
Max Buddy! Aunt Sarah is over with
some of Drews old clothes for you.
Come down.
MAX
Im upstairs.
Sarah looks at Adam and takes the bag with her upstairs.
Let me help.

KRISTINA

Kristina and Sarah go upstairs. Adam walks into the kitchen.

20.
ADAM
Do you guys want anything to drink or
eat?
DREW
You have soda?
ADAM
Yup, no problem.
Drew and Amber sit at the kitchen table. Adam pours the soda
as he speaks.
ADAM (CONTD)
So hows school Drew?
Good.

DREW

Adam places the cup of soda on the table.

AMBER
No romantic interests looming?
Drew looks down.
Tell us!

AMBER (CONTD)

DREW
Well, there is someone.
ADAM
Oh who whats their name Drew?
AMBER
Will we get to meet them?
DREW
Alex. And I dont know.
Why not?

AMBER

DREW
Its just, the family is sort of
embarrassing sometimes.
Amber nods in agreement.
ADAM
You should bring Alex to a dinner.

21.
AMBER
Yeah, we cant be that bad with food
in our mouths.
DREW
Maybe I will.
ADAM
It would be nice to meet Alex.
Kristina walks in.
KRISTINA
Did Adam offer you guys food?
AMBER
Yeah, he was a very gracious host.
KRISTINA
We have chocolate chip cookies.
AMBER
Not that gracious.
Kristina places the bowl of cookies in the center of the
table. Her phone rings.
KRISTINA
Sorry, the campaign.
Adam hugs her from behind.
ADAM
Kristina, dont take the call. Nora
and I need you. Spend the day at
home.
He kisses her cheek. Kristina thinks about it, sighs, smiles,
and turns her phone off.
KRISTINA
Youre right.
Kristina and Adam kiss. Sarah Just walks in.
SARAH
Oh-ho Whats happening in here.
ADAM
Did he like any of the clothes?
SARAH
He was picky, but chose what he
liked.

22.
KRISTINA
Thanks so much Sarah and Drew.

INT. CROSBY AND JASMINES HOME- DAY

Jasmine gets home with groceries and sets them down on the
counter. She hears the t.v. On and walks into the living room.
Jabbar is watching t.v.
JASMINE
Why are you still in your pajamas?
JABBAR
I just got up.
JASMINE
Arent you supposed to be somewhere?
JABBAR
I dont know.
Jabbar continues watching t.v.
JASMINE
Wheres your father?
JABBAR
I dont know. Out.
Jasmine walks back towards the kitchen. Her mother is walking
down the stairs.
JASMINE
Mom, wheres Crosby?
RENNE
I dont know Dear. Wasnt he supposed
to take Jabbar to the doctors?
JASMINE
He was, and hes already late.
RENNE
I told you time and responsibility
mean nothing to Crosby.
Jasmine walks in the kitchen and calls Crosby. Crosby
immediately begins speaking.
CUT TO:

23.
INT. CROSBYS CAR- DAY
CROSBY
Jasmine, I know Im late. Theres so
much traffic, but Ill take him. I
will, Im almost there.
SHOW NO TRAFFIC OUTSIDE CROSBYS WINDOW.
CROSBY (CONTD)
Theres a lot of traffic! Dont. Ill
take Jabbar, just give me two
minutes.
CUT TO:
INT. CROSBY AND JASMINES HOME- DAY
Jasmine hangs up the phone. Renne has been listening.
I told you.

RENNE

JASMINE
He said there was some traffic.
RENNE
Is there really?
Jasmine starts walking away.
JASMINE
Jabbar, hurry up and get dressed.
Were going to the doctors.
Jabbar runs upstairs.
RENNE
This isnt the only appointment
Crosby has been missing.
Jasmine ignores her mother and continues putting groceries
away.
RENNE (CONTD)
Crosby has been bribing Jabbar with
video games whenever he forgets to
pick Jabbar up.
Jasmine finishes putting the milk in the fridge. And looks at
her mother.

24.
RENNE (CONTD)
He is irresponsible, and definitely
not a father.
JASMINE
If this is a conversation on wether
Crosby is a father or not, well he
is.
Jabbar comes in dressed.
Ready?
Ready.

JASMINE (CONTD)
JABBAR

JASMINE
Watch over Nora for me please mom.
RENNE
Its my responsibility.
Renne smiles. Jasmine and Jabbar exit the house into the car.
Renne hears them leave. Then another car come in. There is a
rustle at the door with keys, and Nora starts crying. Renne is
at the kitchen table preparing food when Crosby comes in.
CROSBY
Wheres Jabbar?
RENNE
Jasmine took him.
Crosby hears Nora and starts to go to her.
RENNE (CONTD)
Dont worry. Im already getting her
food ready.
INT. LAW FIRM- DAY
Julia is dressed professionally sitting with two other men who
seem to be waiting for the same job interview as she is.
LAWYER
Julia Braverman.
Julia puts on a smile and follows the man into his office.
Please sit.

LAWYER (CONTD)

25.
JULIA
Of course, thank you.
Julia places her bag on the ground. Her phone towards the
opening is visible.
LAWYER
Excellent previous work experience.
The man is looking through her application.
Thank you.

JULIA

LAWYER
You would be a wonderful fit here. We
are looking for someone to balance
the team.
JULIA
I love balancing.
LAWYER
Why would you like to work here?
JULIA
My children are old enough now that I
can commit my time and effort to my
careerJulia notices a missed call on her phone from the school. She
looks back up.
JULIA (CONTD)
I- I love working with a team and
have had experience in working with
conflicting opinions.
LAWYER
The position requires mostly daytime
hours although it may require you to
work later often.
Of course.

JULIA

The school calls again. The phone silent. Julia gets up and
offers her hand. The man is slightly surprised.
LAWYER
We will contact you soon.
They shake hands.

26.
JULIA
Thank you so much for the
opportunity.
Julia rushes out of the building. Outside, Julia calls the
school. When finished with the call she shuts her eyes, and
takes a deep breath.

INT. SARAHS APARTMENT- DAY

Amber and Sarah are on the couch in the living room.
AMBER
You are being ridiculous.
SARAH
I am not. This family likes to keep a
lot of secrets. And Drew is already
private as it is.
AMBER
He probably just needs more space.
For what?

SARAH

AMBER
To find himself. It doesnt help to
have people hover over you.
SARAH
I do not hover.
Amber gives her a look.
SARAH (CONTD)
What? I dont.
AMBER
You looked through his phone.
SARAH
I didnt mean to look at the message.
AMBER
You didnt mean to look through all
his previous messages either?
SARAH
I just want to help him.

27.
AMBER
Then do, give him space.
SARAH
I will help him.
An idea crosses Sarahs mind.
Mom?

AMBER

SARAH
I know how Im going to help.
Sarah is excited now.
AMBER
Cant wait to hear this one.
SARAH
Im going to throw him a party!
A party?

AMBER

SARAH
Yeah you know. He just needs to feel
more confident with himself. So why
not just tell him its okay to be
himself.
AMBER
Am I getting this correctly?
Sarah is lost in thought now.
SARAH
And I can make a banner, and the
family can be there. We can make him
feel comfortableAMBER
Do you mean like a coming- out party?
SARAH
Well, he isnt coming- out...
AMBER
Exactly, so let it be.
SARAH
Its more of a It-Okay-to-be-gay
party.

28.
Amber gets up.
AMBER
Okay, Im leaving. Thats nuts.
Youre going to drive Drew away from
this family if you do that.
SARAH
It will show how we all love him no
matter what.
AMBER
Youre nuts. Ill see you later. Talk
to Adam before throwing this party.
Amber leaves.
SARAH
I dont need Adam.

END OF ACT TWO

29.
ACT THREE
INT. ADAM AND KRISTINAS HOME- DAY
Adam is in the kitchen. Kristina is in the living room playing
with Nora.
KRISTINA
You really like these hats on Nora.
ADAM
Dont they look cute on her.
KRISTINA
She cant always wear a hat.
Kristina begins taking the hat off. Adam notices and rushes to
Kristina. Kristina notices the missing hair.
KRISTINA (CONTD)
Adam, Noras hair is chopped off...
Kristina notices the scar and lightly touches it.
KRISTINA (CONTD)
And she has a scar...
ADAM
She must have hurt herself.
Max passes the living room, pausing for a moment.
She did.

MAX

Kristina looks at Adam.

ADAM
There may have been an incident with
scissors.
KRISTINA
Where could she have gotten scissors
from.
ADAM
Max left them out.
Max!
Yes?

KRISTINA
MAX

30.
KRISTINA
Please come here.
Max silently enters the room.
KRISTINA (CONTD)
Did you leave scissors out?
Not today.

MAX

KRISTINA
Okay, a few days ago?
MAX
Two days ago.
KRISTINA
You cant leave scissors on the
floor. Once you use them you have to
put them away again.
Okay.

MAX

KRISTINA
Do you understand? You hurt Nora.
MAX
Okay, I will put them away next time.
Is that it?
Kristina sighs.
Yes.

KRISTINA

Kristina turns to Adam.

KRISTINA (CONTD)
Do you need me? Should I continue
with the campaign?
ADAM
The campaign is important to youKRISTINA
So is my family.
ADAM
I will make sure another incident
doesnt occur.

31.
KRISTINA
Are you sure?
ADAM
Positive... Im sorry this happened
before the family photo.
Kristina laughs.
KRISTINA
Thats not important.
ADAM
Im sure they can use photo shop or
something.
KRISTINA
Im proud of my family as they are.
Although maybe we can put a cute hat
on Nora.
They laugh.
INT. CROSBY AND JASMINES HOME- DAY
JASMINE
My mother told me you are bribing
Jabbar with games?
Crosby looks worried.
CROSBY
Video games, yes.
JASMINE
Crosby, the point is. You cant buy
his forgiveness with video games.
CROSBY
It seemed to be working.
JASMINE
Its not, hes still going to be
upset with you.
CROSBY
Okay, okay... I will talk with him.
JASMINE
Thats not all. You have to be there.
You need to keep your promises to
him.

32.
CROSBY
I know... I just dont know how Adam
even does it...
JASMINE
We can workout a chart in writing, so
that we both know what were doing,
and when.
Jasmine goes to get a piece of paper. Jasmine and Crosby sit
in the living room together. Jasmine starts drawing lines and
boxes to make the days of the week.
INT. JULIA AND JOELS HOME- DAY
Sydney and Victor are arguing over something miniscule
upstairs. Sydneys voice is the more apparent one from
downstairs. A phone begins to ring.
JULIA
Sydney! Victor! Im picking up the
phone!
They continue making noise.
Please!

JULIA (CONTD)

Julia picks up the phone covering her mouth and the bottom in
an attempt to make her voice clearer, and the noise in the
background inaudible.
JULIA (CONTD)
Hi... Yes? Oh... Okay. No, thank you
so much for the call. Thank you.
Julia hangs up. Sydney walks down the stairs in a way that
makes her presence very known.
SYDNEY
Mom! Victor is taking too long in the
bathroom.
Julia opens her eyes.
JULIA
Sydney, sweetie. Give Victor some
time.
SYDNEY
I think you have to do something
about Vitctor.

33.
JULIA
I dont have to do anything. He is
not a problem.
SYDNEY
Yes he is. Victor is always in the
bathroom too long, and he is the
reason why I couldnt go on the field
trip andJULIA
Sydney! Is victor the reason why I
had to go pick you up from school
again during my interview?
No, but-

SYDNEY

JULIA
Did Victor force you to call someone
names? Did Victor force you to slap
him?
Sydney is quiet.
JULIA (CONTD)
Go to your room. Dont even think
about yelling at Victor again. Go to
the bathroom when he gets out.
Thats it.
Sydney stands for a moment. Joel comes home.
Go.

JULIA (CONTD)

Sydney goes upstairs.

JOEL
What happened?
JULIA
Sydney is arguing with Victor again.
JOEL
How about you though?
Julia sighs and walks over into the kitchen area.
JULIA
I didnt get the job.

34.
JOEL
Im sorry Julia, we can find another
interview.
JULIA
I think, Sydney and Victor still need
me. I thought they were old enough,
butJOEL
No they are old enough.
INT. CROSBY AND JASMINES HOME- NIGHT
Jasmine and Crosby are working on the scheduling chart. Jabbar
comes in.
JASMINE
So Monday... Jabbar needs to be at
school by eight.
Jasmine begins writing events in for Monday.
Hey buddy.

CROSBY

Jabbar sits.
JABBAR
What are you guys doing?
JASMINE
Making a chart, do you want to help?
Jabbar looks at the paper.
JABBAR
You know theres an easier way online
that notifies you as to what you
should be doing too.
Jasmine and Crosby look at each other. Jabbar begins showing
them with Crosbys phone.
CROSBY
Oh, so I just click here, set the
time..
Yup.

JABBAR

CROSBY
... and wah-la!

35.
Jasmine laughs.
JASMINE
I cant believe we didnt think of
this earlier.
CROSBY
I know right.
Rene comes in.
RENNE
Whats going on?
JASMINE
Just putting together a schedule of
things to do around here?
RENNE
Dont forget buying Jabbar a video
game.
CROSBY
Look I know I made a mistake. But it
wont happen again in the future.
Renne gives Crosby a look.
Mother,

JASMINE

Jasmine gets up.

JASMINE (CONTD)
Crosby is a dedicated father who only
wants the best for his kids. Were
working everything out. We are a new
family, but a family nevertheless at
the end of the day.
Renne looks defeated.
RENNE
Youre right.
Renne walks away.
Whoa there!

CROSBY

Crosby and Jabbar high five.

Crosby!

JASMINE

36.

Sorry

CROSBY

Crosby laughs and he kisses Jasmine.

Thanks.

CROSBY (CONTD)

INT. CROSBY AND JASMINES HOME- JABBARS ROOM- NIGHT

Renne walks into Jabbars room, and sits on the bed.
Grandma?

JABBAR

RENNE
Jabbar... do you feel like your
parents are paying you enough
attention?
Yeah-

JABBAR

RENNE
Even though they need to also care
for Aida too, they love you.
I know.

JABBAR

RENNE
Crosby... is very irresponsible, but
dont let that make you feel bad.
JABBAR
Grandma, I know. It doesnt. Crosby
is my dad. At the end of the day, I
know he tried his best. He loves me
and I love him. A field trip or two
is not important.
Renne smiles.
RENNE
You are growing up so fast.
Renne gives Jabbar a kiss on the forehead. Renne leaves the
room to find that Crosby was just outside listening. Renne
gives him a smirk and bows her head.
RENNE (CONTD)
Youre doing something right.

37.
Crosby smiles and goes into Jabbars room.
CROSBY
Come on Buddy, time for bed.
JABBAR
Dad, its only ten.
CROSBY
Yeah, we have to get to school on
time tomorrow.
Jabbar gets into bed, and Crosby gives him a kiss.
INT. SARAHS APARTMENT- NIGHT
Sarah is on the kitchen table finishing up the banner that
reads: Its Okay To Be Gay. Drew opens the door and walks in.
Sarah pushes the banner behind the counter out of view.
SARAH
Hey, how was your day?
DREW
With Amber? Fine I guess.
SARAH
That sounds fun.
DREW
Yeah, but I do think I have a
surprise for the family tomorrow
night.
SAEAH
At dinner? Yeah, I have my own little
surprise.
DREW
New boyfriend?
SARAH
No. Go to bed.
DREW
Im working on it.
Drew goes into the bathroom. Sarah takes one last look at the
banner.
END OF ACT THREE

38.
ACT FOUR
INT. PHOTO STUDIO- DAY
Adam seems hyper as he holds the baby.
PHOTOGRAPHER
So for the photo, which background
would you rather have?
The photographer shows Kristina two different options.
KRISTINA
I think... the darker one.
Kristina turns back to Adam.
KRISTINA (CONTD)
What do you think Adam?
ADAM
I agree, the darker one.
Kristina notices Adam is antsy. Kristina walks back to Adam as
the photographer prepares the backdrop and equipment.
KRISTINA
Adam, I dont care about the chunk of
hair missing or scar. Sure, it may
not look too good. But we know what
happened, its not a big deal.
ADAM
Youre right.
PHOTOGRAPHER
Oh Noras scar and hair is easily
taken cared of in photoshop.
Adam ad Kristina look at each other.
KRISTINA
Eh, leave them both!
They laugh.
INT. ZEEK AND CAMILLES HOUSE- SUNSET
It is the night of the family dinner. Drew is walking towards
the door with his date Alex. Alex is a girl with short pixie
hair and a sweet demeanor.

39.
Inside the house, Sarah has just peaked outside the window to
see a girl by Drews side instead of a boy. Sarahs eyes grow
large. The family is already gathered around ready. Crosby
opens the door to Drew.
EVERYONE
Congratulations!
Amber is noticed towards the side shaking her head at the
catastrophe.
Um...

DREW

Drew notices the banner. Sarah finally reaches the banner and
rips it down, but is too late.
Surprise.

AMBER

Drew walks in a few steps to look at the silly decorations. On

the table is a stack of books with titles like what it means
to be gay, and Straight, gay, bi-sexual, who cares. Drew
picks one up surprised and continues looking through them.
With the books still in hand he begins to leave.
Drew, wait!

SARAH

Julia, and her family just walks through the door past Alex.
Drew drops the books quickly into Julias hands.
Wait, no-

JOEL

Drew rushes outside. Because Julias arm is broken, the books

fall to the floor.
CROSBY
Well that was not good.
ZEEK
Hey Sarah. I think you jumped to
conclusions.
SARAH
You think so, dad.
Everyone looks bad to the open door where Alex still stands.
Hi,
She smiles

ALEX

40.
ALEX (CONTD)
Im Alexis... Nice to meet you.
INT. ZEEK AND CAMILLES HOUSE- KITCHEN-NIGHT-MOMENTS LATER
Camille is looking through the freezer for an ice pack. Julia
is sitting by the counter.
Found it!

CAMILLE

Camille waves an ice pack in the air and hands it to Joel who
is next to Julia.
JOEL
Here, careful.
Joel places the ice pack on Julias wrist. Julia places her
other hand on joels hand holding the ice pack.
Crosby comes into the kitchen laughing.
CROSBY
So... your left arm this time huh
sis.
Julia makes a face.
JULIA
It wasnt ice skating.
CROSBY
It was roller blading. Practically
the same thing.
Crosby begins leaving the kitchen.
JULIA
No, no it is not!
Crosby leaves the kitchen. Sydney and Victor enter the
kitchen.
Mom.

SYDNEY

JULIA
Yes sweetie. Im exhausted right now.
SYDNEY
Me, and Victor just wanted to tell
you something.

41.
Julia and Joel look at each other.
Yes?

JULIA

SYDNEY
Me and Victor talk it out.
Really?

JULIA

SYDNEY
Yeah, and were going to stop
fighting.
Julia smiles and looks at Victor.
VICTOR
Im sorry you didnt get the job.
JULIA
Oh Victor its okay. I love running
around for you two. Its worth it.
SYDNEY
Im sorry we broke your arm.
JULIA
Its alright you two.
Julia gives Sydney and Victor a hug. Joel pats them on the
back and follows them out into the living room.
CAMILLE
Julia darling, I didnt know you went
for an interview.
JULIA
Oh, it was a small firm.
Julia tries smiling.
CAMILLE
Im sure its their loss.
Julia is silent.
CAMILLE (CONTD)
Come, lets set up the table.
Camille and Julia exit the kitchen.

42.
EXT. ZEEK AND CAMILLES HOUSE- PORCH- NIGHT
Alexis is outside with Drew.
DREW
We can go to the cafe downtown if
youd like?
Um...

ALEXIS

DREW
Anywhere but here...
Sarah steps outside.
SARAH
Drew, could I speak with you?
DREW
No, Im leaving.
Sarah looks at Alexis and smiles.
ALEXIS
Excuse me, Ill be inside Drew.
Alexis enters the house, and closes the door behind her.
SARAH
Look I know youre angry with me.
This was obviously all my idea, I
take full responsibility.
DREW
How could you do this.
SARAH
So... Is she your girlfriend?
DREW
Probably not after this.
SARAH
Look I made a mistake. I thought my
son was gay, it happens.
DREW
It happens. How could you think I was
gay?
SARAH
I... might of... gone through your
messages.

43.
DREW
You went through my phone!
SARAH
Yeah, but... by mistake.
DREW
What did you see!
SARAH
Just a few messages from a Alex...
and a photo... and maybe a
conversation or two.
DREW
Mom, Im too old for you to be
checking up on me.
SARAH
I just wanted to make sure you were
okay, Im your mother.
DREW
So you ask. You dont go through my
messages. You dont throw an
embarrassing coming out party.
I just-

SARAH

DREW
Now its got to be clear to Alex how
insane my family is.
SARAH
Im sure we havent completely scared
her off.
Drew gives her a look.
SARAH (CONTD)
I mean, she didnt run away...
DREW
Im going to have dinner somewhere
else. Im getting Alex and leaving.
Drew walks inside.

44.
INT. ZEEK AND CAMILLES HOUSE- NIGHT
Inside the family is seated around the dinner table. Alexis is
seated as well with an empty seat beside her intended for
Drew. Alexis is laughing with the family.
ZEEK
Come on Drew take a seat by your
woman.
KRISTINA
Alexis here told us about the photo
after your grandfather asked and
explained the whole misunderstanding.
Drew is stunned, and quietly sits next to Alexis.
DREW (WHISPERING)
Are you sure you want to stay?
ALEXIS
Yeah, your family is great.
CROSBY
Hey Julia could you pass the butter.
Oh wait, be careful with your hand.
Crosby and others laugh. Julia gives a look to Crosby.
JOEL
Alright now. Enough with the jokes.
Lets give her a hand for setting up
the table.
More laughing. Drew looks at Alexis who is laughing and
enjoying herself and finally makes himself comfortable and
begins serving himself. Sarah is at the door way watching the
scene. There is a flicker in her eyes of the realization that
Drew is growing up.
EXT. ZEEK AND CAMILLES HOUSE- NIGHT
The family is parting ways for the night, and saying
goodnight.
KRISTINA
It was so nice to meet you. Drew, did
you know Alexis was majoring in
political science.
Alexis smiles.

45.
ADAM
Quite catch there Drew.
I know.

DREW

Alexis shakes hands with Zeek.

ZEEK
What an intelligent young lady. You
are welcome at our house any time.
Unless of course you break that boys
heart.
Never.

ALEXIS

Alexis begins saying goodbye to Julia. Drew is saying bye to

Zeek.
ZEEK
Dont break her heart. Us Bravermans
have a way with our charm.
DREW
Okay grandpa.
Alexis gets to Sarah.
SARAH
Im so sorry for the
misunderstanding. Its such a blurry
photoOh its fine.

ALEXIS

SARAH
It was so nice to meet you.
There is a pause for a moment.
SARAH (CONTD)
Oh come here!
Sarah gives Alexis a hug. Alexis and Drew begin to leave in
Drews car.
SARAH (CONTD)
Dont stay up to late lovebirds!
AMBER
Mom. You okay?

46.

Yeah.

SARAH

Sarah puts her arm over Ambers shoulder.

SARAH (CONTD)
Just losing a child.
AMBER
I think you lost both a while ago.
SARAH
Nah, I still got you.
They laugh.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR