|
Post by Frodo on Nov 16, 2016 7:50:16 GMT
Zarano Manor...
As Nick begins planning for the party to re-intergrate himself into society, Frodi is over the moon that her husband is a free man once again. Ever since the trial, she hasn't been able to stop grinning. To say Nick is also delighted, is an understatement! He HATED wearing the ankle bracelet, with a passion.
FRODI: *cuddles him* So how's my wonderful, amazing husband? NICK: Umm... dunno... feels like there's something missing. *looks down at his leg, and shakes it* Oh yeah, NO FRICKING ANKLE BRACELET!!! * laughs* FRODI: No ankle bracelet. No house arrest. No forced therapy sessions. Whatever are you going to do with yourself now? * grins* NICK: I'm sure I'll think of something. * grins* FRODI: * strokes his back* Rebecca tried EVERYTHING to take you down. But in the end... you out-witted her. * smiles* NICK: Maybe I should pop over, and say 'Hello' to her. * winks* FRODI: * giggles* I would LOVE to see her face, if you did that! * strokes his face* Nick looks at her, and pushes a strand of hair out her eyes. His hand brushes against her cheek. She gently strokes his stubble, and smiles. And they kiss passionately. Several minutes later, they finally pull apart. Frodi runs her hands down his arms, down to his hands, and clasps his hands. FRODI: Mmmm, how do your kisses always make me feel so good? * smiles* NICK: Is this your sneaky way of distracting me from planning this party? Getting me to kiss you? * kisses her nose* FRODI: * shakes her head* I can't wait for everyone to know you're a free man again. NICK: Hehe. Back with a vengeance. The world won't know what's hit it. * plays with her hair* FRODI: Look out world, Nick Zarano is back. *kisses him* NICK: The world better watch out. *kisses her back* FRODI: Forget the world! This is our time, Nick. Wyndemere Island...
Myca, Sebastion, and Lorenzo are down in the basement of their manor. Lorenzo is having his very first fencing lesson - although he was doubtful at first, his new friends convinced him to give it a shot. And although he's not making much progress, Sebastion & Myca are very patient with him.
Lorenzo holds up his sword weakly, and points it in Sebastion's direction, as Sebastion lunges at him, for the upteempth time. SEBASTION: * chuckles* Hehehe, oh my friend! You must think of the sword as an extension of your body. Don't be afraid of it. Or of your opponent. As Sebastion talks, Lorenzo tries to catch him off-guard, and lunges at him. But Sebastion still successfully blocks the attack. SEBASTION: Nice move! Always look for an opening. LORENZO: * sad* But you still blocked me. SEBASTION: True. But don't forget, Myca & I have been doing this for many years. This is only your first lesson. Don't be discouraged. LORENZO: ... SEBASTION: * raises his sword* En guarde. Lorenzo raises his sword, and takes up attack position again. But just as before, he's having a hard time grasping the basics. SEBASTION: * looks at Myca* Little Bird... could you step in, and help me demonstrate? MYCA: With pleasure, darling. Myca takes the sword from Lorenzo, ready to oppose Sebastion. Both of them move slowly, explaining their moves to Lorenzo, as well as little tips and tricks. LORENZO: There's just so much to take in. You both make it look so easy. SEBASTION: It is not easy. But you are right, there is a lot to take in. You have done enough for today. *puts a friendly hand on Lorenzo's shoulder* We will rest for now. * smiles* LORENZO: *lets out a sigh of relief* I don't know if I'll EVER get the hang of it. But I appreciate you both for being so patient with me. MYCA: You did well for your first lesson, Lorenzo. Lorenzo smiles a 'Thankyou', as they leave the dungeon. The next day... Zarano Manor...
The family enjoy a leisurely breakfast together. There's no school or nursery today, so the kids can take their time, and not rush.
Frodi is feeding the twins. They are on solids now, and Frodi is introducing them to porridge. Lucy and Oscar giggle, as Frodi makes Choo Choo noises, and tells them 'Here comes the train... open wide', to get them to eat it. VINCENT: That train is REALLY taking it's time. (reffering to Frodi's comments to Lucy & Oscar)FRODI: Maybe the train will come for YOU, Vincent. * teases Vincent, and offers him a baby spoon of porridge* VINCENT: *pulls a face* No thanks! Porridge is horrible! I'll stick with my cereal, thanks. An hour or so later, breakfast is over. The kids are off doing various things. Vincent has gone out on a date with Jazzy. Rosie and Lilla are playing Hide & Seek with Eurus. Michael has sneaked out to see Abby. Lucy and Oscar are down for a nap. So that just leaves Frodi & Nick.
Frodi goes through to the living room, and flops down on the settee. Nick sits down next to her, and gently puts his hand on her bump. She looks at him, and lovingly puts her hand over his. NICK: So is Bumpy still kicking a lot? Frodi smiles. 'Bumpy' has affectionately become their nickname for the unborn baby. FRODI: Yeah. I think he or she if having a party in there, most of the time. Nick puts his arm around her, and pulls her towards him. And she snuggles into his neck. FRODI: Are you remembering, I'm meeting Alessea for lunch today? Haven't seen much of her recently. We can have a good girly natter, and catch up with each other. NICK: * nods* It'll do you good, to get out, and meet up with her again. Plus, it'll give me a chance to work on planning for this party. FRODI: * stretches up to kiss him* Who's on the guest list? NICK: * plays with her hair* EVERYONE! This is gonna be one hell of a party. FRODI: Want me to pick anything up, when I'm in town? NICK: Nah, think I got everything covered. Sein Dor Cinema
Vincent and Jazzy have gone to see a film at the local cinema. They can't decide between the horror film and the comedy film, but in the end, horror wins.
As the film plays on, Vincent loves how Jazzy screams, looks away, and cuddles into him, at the scary bits. Although he's not quite sure how much is genuine fear, and how much is for show, so they can cuddle. Sein Dor Cafe...
A few hours have passed, and it's now lunch time. Frodi is at the cafe, waiting for Alessea. When Alessia arrives, they hug each other warmly. FRODI: ALESSEA! Great to see you again. It's been too long. ALESSEA: *nods in agreement* It has! How are you though? And how's that baby of yours? FRODI: *puts her hand on her bump* We're both doing fine. How are you and Bing? ALESSEA: We're great. The chat is relaxed, and easy. Both of them enjoy catching up with each other. They talk about everything from the weather, their children, Frodi's pregnancy, Nick, Bing, Gondien... to Luca's abduction of Frodi, and Luca's subsequent death by drowning, Gondien and Arelius's recent health, and Nick's house arrest, and the court case that made him a free man again. But there are some things Frodi isn't ready to talk about. Things like Stengolas carving his name in her back, her fear that he's still out there somewhere, and baby Hope. She's still trying to come to terms with those things, and she'd rather keep them private, between her and Nick.
Then, Alessea brings up something interesting... ALESSEA: So did you hear about Rebecca De Chagney? FRODI: What about her? ALESSEA: Her and her boyfriend... um, Josh, I think his name is, have both skipped town. FRODI: * gasps* You're kidding? ALESSEA: No. My father told me. He may not be running Sein Dor at the moment, but him and his elves are still in the loop, so to speak. And he told me that a policeman went to Rebecca's beach house the other day... and it was completely deserted. FRODI: WOW! * pause* It's true I haven't seen anything of her recently, but I thought she was just angry, since Nick was found Not Guilty. I wonder where she is, then. ALESSEA: Who can say. But I don't think they suspect any foul play. Apparently their car is gone, as well. My father said, by all accounts, her and Josh must have left town together. FRODI: I hope she can move on with her life, and be at peace now. And I hope she's happy with Josh. ALESSEA: I hope so too. But going back to Nick being found Not Guilty... I am SO happy for him! Make sure you tell him that. We haven't always agreed on everything, but I am thrilled he's free again. FRODI: * grins* Thanks. I'll tell him that. And, I'm thrilled too. They chat for a while longer, with Frodi making a mental note to tell Nick about Becca & Josh when she returns home, as well as Alessea's good wishes to him.
Two days later... Wyndemere Island...
Lorenzo and the woman walk through the manor gardens, hand in hand. They've been getting closer over the last few days, ever since that first kiss. And as well as being attracted to the woman, he also feels protective of her. She still doesn't want him telling Myca & Sebastion about her - she's obviously hiding from something... or someone. And Lorenzo is determined to take things as slowly as she wants, until he's proved she can trust him.
So they walk hand in hand, and sit on a bench by their favourite fountain - the one where they first kissed. WOMAN: *looks at Lorenzo* Is something wrong Lorenzo? You've been so quiet today. LORENZO: No. Yes. I don't know. * pause* I've been thinking a lot recently... about my past, and how I don't remember. WOMAN: I know it must be so frustrating for you, not knowing who you are... where you came from. But it * WILL* come back to you, when you're ready. * smiles* LORENZO: But that's just it. Does it really matter? WOMAN: What do you mean? LORENZO: *long pause* Obviously I don't know who I was. Or what my life was. But I love my life here. Now. I'm happy here. Sebastion and Myca have become such good friends. Aside from the fact that they took me in, and nursed me back to health when I washed up on the beach, they're really good people. Kind, caring people. And I'm glad to call them my friends. They let me stay in their manor, when they don't have to. They even tried to teach me how to fence, a couple of days ago. I was bad. I mean, REALLY bad. But they were so patient with me. * chuckles* And then... there's you! WOMAN: Me? Lorenzo stands up, and turns to face her. LORENZO: In case it isn't obvious, I'm falling for you, Baby. I'm falling hard. I know our circumstances are... unique. But I'm determined to earn your trust. Lorenzo pulls her into his arms. LORENZO: I don't know what brought you here. I don't know what scared you so badly, you're afraid to even tell me your name. But I promise you, NOTHING is going to hurt you, while I'm around. *kisses the top of her head* WOMAN: * looks at him* My knight in shining armour! Meanwhile, inside the manor...
Sebastion stands in the Weapons Room, wiping a bloody sword. Myca approaches him, and wraps her arms around him.
Sebastion bends down, and looks at the dead body at his feet. The dead body with a fresh stab wound through his heart. SEBASTION: I TOLD YOU NOT TO DISRESPECT MY WIFE! MYCA: *strokes his long hair* Do not let him upset you, my darling. SEBASTION: He rolled his eyes at you. NO-ONE shows you that kind of disrespect! MYCA: He won't make that mistake again. Sebastion turns to Myca and smiles. He holds the sword out, waiting for one of servants to take it, and put it away for him. Then he kisses Myca passionately. SEBASTION: You have more patience than I, Little Bird. MYCA: He had pretty eyes. Can I have them? SEBASTION: That piece of slime isn't fit to be in your collection. MYCA: Please? SEBASTION: * softens* You know I can never say 'No' to you. * looks at one of the guards* GUARD! Take him to the morgue. Have his eyes removed, and preserved, just as Myca likes. GUARD: Yes sir. The guard talks into his walkie-talkie radio, asking for a trolly to be brought in, so they can move the body to the morgue. Zarano Manor...
Frodi & Nick are spending some time out by the pool. As they sit on edge of the pool, Frodi leans in, and kisses him. FRODI: Are you remembering Vincent's girlfriend is coming for tea today? NICK: Yeah. Jazzy, isn't it? What sort of name is that? FRODI: * giggles* I'm sure she's a very nice woman. And she's Vincent's first girlfriend. * pause* It doesn't seem possible - seems like only yesterday, he was a baby. Now he's growing up, and dating? NICK: * chuckles* Frodi Zarano, are you getting broody? FRODI: Maybe. Not my fault though. I'm pregnant... my hormones are everywhere. NICK: And do your hormones see fit to give your husband a kiss? FRODI: Hmmm, I think I can manage that. Frodi smiles, touches his face, and French Kisses him. Later that afternoon...
School is over for the day, and Vincent brings Jazzy home for tea. She stops outside the manor, and looks in awe at it. JAZZY: THIS is where you live? VINCENT: Yeah. Why? JAZZY: It's HUUUUUGGGGEEEEEE! VINCENT: My dad built it for my mum. JAZZY: Wow, she's lucky. VINCENT: Hehe. Come on, I'm dying for you to meet them. JAZZY: Do you think they'll like me? VINCENT: Of course they will. Why shouldn't they? Vincent leads Jazzy into the manor, and into the living room where Frodi & Nick are sitting (after their pool session). JAZZY: Watcha, Mr Z. Mrs Z. NICK: * looks at this young teenager, who is dating his son* It's Mr Zarano to you. JAZZY: Yeah, course, Mr Zarano. FRODI: So Jazzy, Vincent's told us a lot about you. JAZZY: All good, I hope? FRODI: He's fairly smitten with you. VINCENT: MUM! * embarrassed* FRODI: Jazzy? That's an unusual name. JAZZY: Short for Jasmine. But I prefer Jazzy. FRODI: Fair enough. Why don't you two go on upstairs, until tea's ready? JAZZY: Thanks Mrs Z. Ummm... Zarano... Mrs Zarano. Ma'am. FRODI: Mrs Zarano is fine, Jazzy. Vincent & Jazzy beat a hasty retreat up to his room. FRODI: Well she seems nice, don't you think? A bit strange, but nice. NICK: I'll reserve judgement, until I know more about her. FRODI: You want to know more about her? Well, I happen to know, her boyfriend has the most incredible dad - smart, sexy, and he lights up the room, whenever he walks in. Frodi stands up, pulls Nick to his feet, clasps his hands, and kisses him.
|
|
|
Post by Frodo on Nov 16, 2016 7:51:46 GMT
Zarano Manor...
It's the day after Nick's party. It was a great success, and Nick seemed to enjoy re-integrating himself back into society. Even the press showed up, and took pictures, wanting to run an article about 'House Arrest Horror Halted'. Frodi is so proud of her husband!
But that was yesterday. When they woke up this morning, Frodi noticed Nick seemed to be in a weird mood - quiet and withdrawn, as though he had something else on his mind. When Frodi asked him what was wrong, he just insisted he was fine. But Frodi knows her husband... and she knows when something is troubling him. He was quiet all through breakfast, and then after breakfast, he went out. He didn't say where he was going, or how long he would be... he just went out. Frodi can only guess he's trying to clear his head from whatever is troubling him. After she saw the younger kids off to school and nursery, she tried calling him on his mobile... but it went straight to his voicemail. She's worried about him.
But there's also something else troubling Frodi. Something that's been weighing heavily on her mind.
Now, with the kids out, and the twins down for a nap, she makes her way to the bedroom. Behind closed doors, she stares at herself in the bedroom mirror. She unfastens her dress, letting it fall to the floor, and gently puts her hand on her huge bump. She's so excited to be having this baby with Nick, and she can't wait to hold the baby in her arms. She smiles a little, as she thinks about it. But then she squints round, and looks at her back, in the mirror. And there... staring back at her... is the ugly truth. The name 'Stengolas' carved into her back. A parting 'gift' from the person who pretended to be her doctor. She stares at it in the mirror - a cruel, twisted reminder of what he did to her. She feels physically sick, as she thinks about him examining her... touching her as he pretended to check on her unborn baby. And the vitamins he had been giving her, was actually him drugging her, so he could do... god knows what to her! She feels psychically sick! A tear trickles down her cheek. BABY MONITOR: WWAAAAAA WWAAA WWAAA Frodi turns to look at the baby monitor. FRODI: * sniff* It's okay Oscar. Mummy's coming. She wipes her eyes, trying to pull herself together, before pulling her dress back on and going to check on Oscar. Wyndermere Island...
Lorenzo is in his bedroom, feeling bored. Myca & Sebastion are busy, so he has no-one to talk to. His mind goes back to The Woman... he can't stop thinking about her. Without thinking, he grabs a sheet of paper, and starts doodling. He can't explain it... he just wants to get her image down on paper. Zarano Manor...
Mid-morning, Francesca wanders in to the living room. She flops down on the settee, and flicks through channels on the TV, looking for something good to watch. Frodi appears at the door. Despite their rocky history, Frodi and Francesca are now friends. FRODI: Oh, it's you, Francesca. I wondered who was playing with the telly. FRANCESCA: Yep, only me, I'm afraid. FRODI: Anything good on? FRANCESCA: * shakes her head* It's all repeats of repeats of repeats. * changes the subject* That was some party yesterday! FRODI: * nods* I think Nick's glad to not be a prisoner in his own home anymore. And I think he's even more glad not to have the threat of jail hanging over him! I know * I* am... don't think I could deal with it, if he had been sent back to jail. FRANCESCA: You and Nick have been together a long time, haven't you? FRODI: * nods* We've been married for 21 years now. I was pregnant with Michael and Lilla when he proposed. And the day I married him was the happiest day of my life! I fell head over heels in love with Nick - he is the man of my dreams... my best friend... my hero... my soulmate! FRANCESCA: Say... where is Nick, anyway? * looks around* FRODI: Um, he went out after breakfast. I think he's still trying to get his head around the fact that he's a free man again. Nick still hasn't come home yet, and Frodi is worried. Wyndermere Island...
Myca & Sebastion are enjoying a game of chess. It's something they both enjoy doing, as a way of winding down after a long fencing session.
Sebastion picks up his Rook... about to move it... but then he looks at it closely. SEBASTION: Chess is such a beautiful game, don't you think? All it's little intricacies and rules. This piece can only move like so... and this other piece can only move like so, that contradicts the first piece... and so on, and so on. With the end goal being, to take your opponents King - Check Mate! And who would have thought that these little pawns *picks up one of his pawns* ... that seem so worthless... could actually be the instrument of capturing said King? Fascinating! Whoever thought that all these pieces could co-exist... must be applauded. MYCA: Mmmm, it's certainly a game to stimulate the mind. But don't underestimate the Pawn - they are my favourite. SEBASTION: You know how I learned to play Chess? My great uncle Sebationas taught me. MYCA: The uncle you were named after? SEBASTION: It is thanks to him, the rules have been etched to my brain. As a child, if I made a mistake... forgot how a piece moved... he would beat me black and blue. MYCA: You didn't have a happy childhood, did you? SEBASTION: Childhood is over the moment you know you're going to die. Myca moves closer to Sebastion, and leans in to kiss him. MYCA: Childhood is over-rated, my love. Zarano Manor...
As Frodi is walking towards the kitchen, she happens to walk past the study. The door is ajar, but there's no lights on in the room, which she finds strange. FRODI: Hello? Frodi gently pushes the door open, and enters the study. It's dark, so she flicks on the light. And then screams, as she sees Nick sitting behind his desk. FRODI: NICK! You scared me! I didn't hear you come in. NICK: ... FRODI: What are you doing here, in the dark, brooding? NICK: I don't brood! Frodi walks over to him, and sits down next to him. FRODI: * takes his hand* Nick... what's troubling you? And don't just say 'Nothing' again. You * CAN* tell me. You seemed so happy yesterday. NICK: *big sigh* *long pause* That's just it. Yesterday, the party. FRODI: To celebrate your freedom. NICK: My freedom! After Rebecca had me arrested, and I was sentenced to house arrest. FRODI: But you out-witted her. NICK: I guess so. But I can't help thinking, Dante would have enjoyed this party. FRODI: * realising what Nick is getting at* Rebecca's dad. NICK: Right. Rebecca's dad. Frodi puts her arm around Nick, trying to comfort him. FRODI: What happened with Dante... you can't beat yourself up about it Nick. You were protecting Krissy. NICK: At the expense of Dante? And Rebecca? FRODI: Dante was going to turn Krissy in to the police. He didn't care that you and him were friends. * strokes his back* You did the only thing you could. NICK: Sometimes it just gets to me. * sigh* I wish things could have turned out differently with Rebecca. Before I knew she was Dante's daughter, I actually liked her. She was a bit full-on maybe, but I still liked her. FRODI: Well Rebecca left town. Maybe that's a sign she's ready to move on, and make peace with her past... now that she's not conducting this witch hunt of you. NICK: ... FRODI: Come on... where's that Zarano fighting spirit? NICK: *gives a small smile* I'm glad to have you in my corner, Frodi Zarano. FRODI: I'm *ALWAYS* in your corner Nick! ALWAYS! * gently kisses his cheek*
|
|
|
Post by Frodo on Nov 18, 2016 5:36:31 GMT
Part 1...
Zarano Manor...
Frodi wakes, to find Nick stroking her hair and nibbling her ear. She turns over to face him, smiles, touches his face, and kisses him. FRODI: What a lovely way to wake up! NICK: Sleep well? *kisses her* FRODI: * nods* I had a dream. I dreamt that we were in the ocean, and you were washing my back. *strokes his face* NICK: * smiles* Well, the ocean might be a problem, but how about a nice bubble bath later on? And I can massage your back? * plays with her hair* FRODI: I would love that Nick! Thankyou! *french kisses him* NICK: * french kisses her back* So what do you fancy for breakfast? FRODI: Ummm... not sure. Something light? NICK: How about porridge with honey? FRODI: * smiles* Sounds perfect. * kisses him again* After some more kissing, they finally force themselves out of bed. They've been married for over 20 years, and they love each other more than ever!
Frodi sits on the edge of the bed as she tries to put her slippers on... but her feet are too swollen. FRODI: I swear, these slippers get smaller every day. * kicks them away* I'll just go slipperless - it's more comfy. * laughs* NICK: * squats down in front of her, and rubs her swollen feet* We'll need to get you some bigger shoes. * grins* FRODI: Don't want bigger shoes. But that footrub you're giving me... BLISS! * leans her head back, and gives a contented sigh* NICK: * kisses her feet* That's all you get for now. Come on... time for breakfast. Get your dressing gown on. * pulls her to her feet, and kisses her* FRODI: * giggles, wraps he arms around him, and kisses him* Yes sir. Wyndemere Island...
Sebastion, Myca, and Lorenzo are sitting down to a luxury breakfast. SEBASTION: Isn't it a beautiful day? MYCA: It certainly is! LORENZO: This breakfast is very tasty! I must thank your cook, later. SEBASTION: No need. So... what plans do you have for today, Lorenzo? *smiles at his friend* LORENZO: * thinks about the woman* Not sure. I might go for a walk in the gardens, if I may? It's very beautiful, looking at all the plants and flowers. * looks at Myca* You must be so proud of the gardens. MYCA: Thankyou Sebastion, but I can't take all the credit. The gardener helps a lot. Sebastion sips some wine from his goblet, but notices the goblet is almost empty. He thumps it back down on the table. SEBASTION: Now isn't that just typical! Nothing spoils a good meal, like running out of wine! * yells* Cook? COOK! Myca goes over to him, and sits with him. MYCA: Do not stress yourself, my love. Company is more important than wine. And the company here, at breakfast, is first class. Sebastion looks like he is going to explode. But then... just as suddenly as his outburst started... he calms down. SEBASTION: You always manage to calm me down, Little Bird. Sein Dor Hospital...
Trina and Ben are chatting in the corridor, as they both have a quiet spell in their respective duties. Despite their romantic relationship not working out, they had remained friends. But recently, since Trina got to know Ben better, she's surprised to find herself starting to feel MORE for him. Ben tells her a joke. BEN: How do you kill vegetarian vampires? * pause* With a steak to the heart. Boom boom! TRINA: * laughs* BEN, that is AWFUL! *touches his arm* BEN: Made you laugh, though. * grins* Ben's friend John appears at end of the corridor. John looks at Ben, and taps his watch impatiently. Ben sees John, then looks back at Trina. BEN: Excuse me Trina. I have to go. Duty calls in the lab. (He's a lab technician) We'll talk again soon? Trina nods.
Ben excuses himself, then walks up to John. JOHN: About time! Mary's calling for us. You ready? BEN: * smiles strangely* Absolutely! I love our sessions with Mary! Both men walk off together, making their way through many corridors, until they reach a door marked 'STORAGE'. Ben swipes his security card through the security lock on the door, and Ben and John enter the room. Inside, it appears to be just like any other storage room... but appearances can be deceptive. Ben walks up to a stack of shelves along the wall... and slides it over. Behind the stack of shelves, is a strange-looking optical security lock. Ben states his name, and puts his eye on the optical lock, and a laser scans his eye. ROBOTIC VOICE: Identity confirmed - Ben Brogan. Please enter. A door opens, revealing a lift. The men enter the lift, as it descends downwards. BEN: * rolls up his sleeves* Mary Walsh is doing such important work. She's head of Research here at the hospital, and she picked US to be a part of her work! * pause* These sessions haven't been running for long, but already, I can't imagine my life without them. JOHN: I couldn't agree more! We're definitely privileged to be working with her. The lift doors open, and Ben and John step out into a huge room. Three other men are already here, making the group a total of 5. A woman - Mary Walsh - walks up to them. MARY WALSH: Hello boys. Shall we get started? To Be Continued...
|
|
|
Post by Frodo on Nov 18, 2016 23:48:08 GMT
Part 2...
Zarano Manor...
It's mid-morning, and Frodi is doing laundry. Nick comes through to give her a hand, and they start chatting... with plenty of kissing & cuddling, of course!FRODI: Eurus is still asking for an easel, you know. *clasps his hands* NICK: Still? I thought she would have given up on that by now. FRODI: Well, you know Eurus. She * over-dramatically imitates Eurus, putting her hand up to her forehead, in a diva-like fashion* "Needs somewhere to create her masterpieces." NICK: * laughs* She ain't getting one. Everyone knows, artists are crazy people. Take her uncle, for example. *kisses Frodi's nose* FRODI: * wraps her arms around him* Nick, she's not gonna turn out like Franco. Not all artists are crazy. NICK: *raises his eyebrow* How many artists do we know? FRODI: 2. NICK: And how many of them are crazy psychotic murdering lunatics? FRODI: Uh... 2 NICK: Case in point! * kisses her* FRODI: * laughs* She's a 6 year old kid. I think we can keep her psychotic tendencies in check. *nuzzles into his neck* Sein Dor Hospital...
In the underground secret 'Research' room, Mary Walsh is overseeing Ben, John, and the other 3 men, as they are strapped in strange chairs. They have their arms and legs strapped to the chair, and their head is also restraned by a strap, so they can't move. Each chair has a strange device attached to it, with a long tube coming out, and a huge needle at the end of the tube. The needle is inserted into each man's arm, as they sit in the chair... pumping some strange drug into them. But what is this drug? What is it for?
Eventually, the session is over, and Mary unstraps all the men. They seem to be in a euphoric state, as they stand up. Ben closes his eyes for a moment, then opens them again. He clenches his fist, and flexes his arm. MARY: Ben? How do you feel? BEN: * slowly* * euphoric* I feel... GREAT! Ready... to take on the world! MARY: That's what I like to hear. * smiles* BEN: So when do we take on the world? MARY: I just love your enthusiasm Ben, but let's hold off for now, okay? JOHN: * also euphoric* When's the next session? MARY: In 2 days. Same time. I'll page you, if I need you sooner. * smiles brightly* Zarano Manor...
Mid-afternoon, Frodi is looking... and feeling... very tired. She leans on the kitchen table, and lets out a sigh. NICK: * concerned* Frodi? You okay? FRODI: * looks at Nick* My back is killing me. NICK: Poor Frodi. * rubs her back* Is that better? FRODI: Uuuuuuhhhhhhhh... NICK: How about that bubble bath I mentioned earlier? That might relax you? Frodi nods. Nick takes her hand, and helps her upstairs to the bathroom. He fills the bath, making sure the water is nice and hot, and adds bubble bath, then he helps Frodi in, climbing in after her. He grabs the sponge, and gently washes her back, being extra-careful over her mutilated scars. FRODI: That feels good Nick. NICK: Well, we can't have your back hurting. So is this as good as your dream? FRODI: * smiles* Better! Nick kisses her ear and wraps his arms round her bump. She smiles, and puts her hand over his, with their fingers intertwining. Wyndemere Island...
After a long walk through the gardens, Lorenzo is disappointed not to have seen The Woman. What is it about her, that draws him to her so much? Eventually, he gives up waiting for her, and heads back to his room.
As he opens the door to his room, he hears a voice. WOMAN: Lorenzo! He spins round, with a smile on his face. LORENZO: Hey! Glad to see you! I was looking for you in the gardens. WOMAN: Sorry, I wasn't able to get out. LORENZO: Doesn't matter, you're here now. *kisses her* There's something I've been wanting to show you. Lorenzo leads the woman into his room, and brings out his drawing of her. LORENZO: I started drawing this a couple of days ago, but I think it's finished now. THE WOMAN: * gasps* LORENZO, this... this is WONDERFUL! You drew me? LORENZO: I couldn't get you out of my head. * smiles shyly* Hope you don't mind? THE WOMAN: Mind? I'm FLATTERED! Thankyou so much Lorenzo. * kisses him* *looks at the drawing* You're really talented though. Have you drawn before? LORENZO: * frowns* I... don't know. It did feel good to draw though... so relaxing. THE WOMAN: Maybe you were a world famous artist, before you lost your memory? LORENZO: Hehehe, now that would be nice. Fame and fortune is waiting for me... somewhere. THE WOMAN: Well don't forget me, if you wake up tomorrow, and remember all your adoring fans. * cuddles him, and plays with his long hair* LORENZO: As if I could forget you! *turns serious* Seriously, Myca & Sebastion have been great... but it's YOU that helps me come to terms with everything. And it's YOU that makes not remembering anything seem okay. I like my life now, and I like being here with you. * pause* Anyway, this 'Famous Artist' thing is just pipe dreams. * laughs* THE WOMAN: Maybe. But I still say you are REALLY talented! * looks at her drawing again* This shouldn't be a one-off... you should start drawing other things, as well. LORENZO: For you, Baby, I'll give it a shot. Zarano Manor...
After a leisurely, relaxing bubble bath with Nick, Frodi is resting on the settee, while Nick popped out for a while. She nods off for a while, and before she knows it, Nick is shaking her awake. FRODI: * sleepily* Nick, you're back. * smiles* How long have I been asleep? NICK: Ages! But you looked so peaceful sleeping, I didn't want to wake you. Anyway, look what I got, when I was out. Nick pulls Frodi to her feet, and shows off his latest purchase. Frodi squeals in delight. FRODI: An easel! I LOVE it. Eurus is gonna love it! * throws her arms around Nick, and kisses him* NICK: Put it together myself. * proud* Not just a pretty face, you know. FRODI: Nick Zarano... master of all trades! And man of my dreams. * smiles* Frodi sees something on the floor, and picks it up. FRODI: What's this? Nick looks at the item in Frodi's hand, and a look of bewilderment comes over him. NICK: * looks between the thing Frodi is holding, and his newly-built easel* I have absolutely no idea where that bit goes! FRODI: Niiicccckkkk... is the easel going to collapse? * giggles* NICK: NO! I don't think... FRODI: What are we gonna do with this extra piece? Nick takes the object from Frodi, and throws it over his shoulder. NICK: What extra piece? Don't see any extra piece? *grins, and kisses Frodi* When Eurus came home from nursery, she was over the moon at her new easel. The first thing she did, was 'paint' a picture of her, and Frodi, and Nick. Luckily, the easel stayed intact, even without the mysterious extra piece. Through the night...
Frodi had gone for an early night. She's been feeling... restless and uncomfy all day, not to mention her back hurting. She hopes maybe a good night's sleep will help. When Nick joined her, after putting the kids to bed, she cuddles into him.
Frodi jerks awake, feeling a sharp pain. She sits up, and looks at the clock - 3.18am. She looks at Nick, who is still sleeping soundly. She struggles over to the window. The pain eases off for a while, but then soon comes back. She knows what this pain means - her labour has started.
She sits back on the bed, and shakes Nick awake. FRODI: Nick... Nick... wake up... it's time. NICK: *still half-asleep* Mmmmm, what's time? FRODI: My labour. It's started. NICK: * yawns* That's nice. *eyes shoot open* WHAT? Nick sits up suddenly, and looks at Frodi. NICK: *touches her bump* The baby's coming? FRODI: * nods* Bumpy is ready to make an appearance. * excited* Nick kisses the bump, then kisses Frodi. NICK: Could you not have gone into labour when it's light outside, instead of middle of the night? * teases* FRODI: * giggles* Tell that to Bumpy. NICK: I want to take one last photo of bumpy, before he's born. Nick grabs his mobile, and snaps a photo of Frodi and 'Bumpy'. Frodi smiles, glad that Nick is here with her.
Frodi smiles as the contraction eases off. Nick times her, until the next contraction starts, then times her again to see how long the contraction lasts. NICK: Time to get you to the hospital. *holds her hand, and rubs her back* FRODI: The other kids will be wondering what's happening, if I'm not around in the morning. Can you wake Francesca? NICK: Sure. Will you be okay? Frodi nods. Nick heads up to Francesca's room. Naturally, she's fast asleep, since it's middle of the night. Nick knocks loudly on her door, but it takes a while for her to hear it.
By the time Nick and Francesca get back to the bedroom, Frodi is having another contraction. Again, Nick helps her through it, and rubs her back, until it eases off. NICK: I'll get the car ready. Francesca, will you stay with Frodi? FRANCESCA: Of course. I'll also phone ahead to the hospital, to let them know you're coming. Ten minutes later, Frodi & Nick are on their way to the hospital. Sein Dor Hospital...
As Nick pulls up at the hospital, a nurse is waiting for them with a wheelchair, thanks to Francesca phoning ahead.
As Frodi is wheeled through the corridors to the maternity ward, bad memories of Stengolas flash through her mind. She looks up and Nick, squeezing his hand tightly.
Inside the maternity suite, Frodi is introduced to the doctor who will be dealing with her labour. Luckily, he is a well-respected doctor who has been with the hospital for years - not some new doctor.
Frodi begins the long process of labour, with the doctor timing each contraction. From experience, Frodi knows it's best to stay upright as much as possible, so Nick helps her, as she goes for short walks between each contraction. And they remind each other to try and relax, and also to take regular drinks.
Eight hours later, Frodi's contractions have been very long and painful - moreso than usual. She's afraid. But the doctor explains, it's probably a side effect of the drugs Stengolas had been giving her, but there's nothing to worry about, and the baby is fine. Nick is being fantastic - reassuring her, helping her through each contraction, helping her go for short walks etc.
Two hours later - 10 hours into labour, Frodi needs oxygen and air to help her through the painful contractions. She's too exhausted now, to keep taking walks. Nick makes sure she keeps drinking water, to keep herself hydrated.
Another 4 hours pass. Frodi's contractions grow stronger, and closer together. A monitor is attached to her, so they can check on the baby's heartbeat. Frodi is exhausted. She's using the gas and air a lot, and her body is aching from pushing, but Nick won't let her give up. He wipes her brow, changes her position, rubs her back, helps her sit up, whatever she wants. She's a bundle of nerves at this point, and she couldn't get through this without him! Another hour passes. Frodi has been in labour for a gruelling 15 hours now, with the doctor guiding her when to push and when not to push. All of a sudden, water gushes out, and the doctor cheers. DOCTOR: Your waters have broken, Mrs Zarano. Baby is coming - not much longer now. FRODI: * weak, and hurting all over* I can't do this. I CAN'T. * cries* Nick squats down next to her. He takes her hand, and strokes her hair, and looks straight at her. NICK: Yes you CAN! You can do this Frodi. Come on... you've come this far. And you're doing brilliantly! Come on... I want to see Bumpy. * kisses her forehead* FRODI: *very emotional* Nick, have I told you recently how much I love you? Cos I do, you know. I love you with all my heart! You changed my life, Nick. I was broken when I met you... and you healed me. And you taught me what love is. And I love you so much. NICK: * smiles, and strokes her hair* It goes both ways, you know. I love you too. DOCTOR: Okay Mrs Zarano, are you ready for a big push. And... PUUUSSSHHHH. FRODI: * pushes* NNNNNNNNNNNNMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUURRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH * pants* DOCTOR: And relax. I can see baby's head. Nick, would you like to come and see baby's head? Nick squeezes Frodi's hand, and goes to where the doctor is standing. Sure enough, the top of the baby's head can be seen. Nick starts to get emotional. NICK: Frodi, I wish you could see this. The baby has so much black hair. * smiles at Frodi* DOCTOR: Can you give me another push, Frodi? FRODI: NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUURRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII NICK: The baby's head is out! DOCTOR: That's the hard part over, Frodi. The rest is easy. Next push, and we'll have baby out. Two minutes pass. DOCTOR: You've done so well Frodi. Can we have one last push? FRODI: * pushes* AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNNNMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH BABY: DOCTOR: * smiles* You have a healthy baby boy, Frodi. With VERY healthy lungs! * chuckles* * looks at Nick* Nick, would you like to cut the cord? Nick cuts the cord. Frodi's gruelling 16 hour labour is over. The doctor places baby on Frodi's chest. She feels such an overwhelming sensation of love for this tiny little baby. A baby who, at one time, she thought Nick would never see. She reaches out, and pulls Nick towards her, crying with emotion. Nick kisses her, and kisses the baby. NICK: You did it Frodi! And I'm so proud of you! * plays with her hair* We have a beautiful new son. FRODI: * cries* Baby Solan? NICK: * nods* Baby Solan! A short time later, Frodi and baby Solan are cleaned up. The doctor wraps baby up, and gives him back to Frodi.
|
|
|
Post by Frodo on Nov 18, 2016 23:48:23 GMT
Zarano Manor...
After a long, hard labour, Frodi was glad to rest in the hospital. The kids had come later that day, to visit Frodi and Solan, and there was a lot of 'Ooohing' and 'Aaahing'. Sabag also visited, to meet his new little nephew.
A couple of days later, Frodi and baby Solan return home to the manor. Nick, who had driven them home, pulls up outside the manor, Frodi smiles at Nick, leans over, and kisses him. FRODI: It's good to be home! NICK: * puts his arm around her* Welcome home Frodi. * kisses her* FRODI: The hospital staff were great, but every time one of them came near me, I couldn't help thinking... 'Are you really who you say you are... are you really a doctor... or are you Stengolas with a different face?' * looks down* I just couldn't relax. NICK: Frodi... * gently pulls her face to look at him* Remember what I said before? Just say the word and I will have Stengolas found... and he will pay the price for what he did to you! FRODI: * pauses* * touches his face* You've only just been released from House Arrest, after Rebecca's case against you was dropped. I don't want to do ANYTHING that would risk the police taking you away again. Nick strokes her hair, kisses her, and smiles. NICK: C'mon... let's get inside then. Frodi & Nick get out of the car. Frodi wraps her arms around him, hugging him tightly, as she squints up to kiss him. Nick pulls a lose strand of hair away from her face as he kisses her back.
After a passionate kiss & cuddle, Frodi collects Solan from the car seat, and they make their way inside the manor. FRODI: * to Solan* What do you think of your new home, Solan? Solan, being a baby, just looks at Frodi and gurgles. FRODI: * to Nick* He says he loves his home. And he loves his daddy. *kisses Nick* They reach the front door, and Nick unlocks it for them. Inside the hallway, Frodi pauses for a moment, and looks around. NICK: * kisses her* Sabag's bringing Lucy and Oscar back later. He's looking after them, so you and Solan could get settled back home. FRODI: He's the best brother ever! * grins* I bet he's having a ball with the twins though. NICK: Probably. * laughs* FRODI: * gives a happy sigh* Back in my own bed tonight! Those hospital beds are SO uncomfy! NICK: The thing about those hospital beds is... they're too small... can't have sex in them. * winks at Frodi* FRODI: * laughs* Nick Zarano! Are you planning on baby number 9 already? NICK: * shrugs* No comment! But next time you go into labour, can you make it in the day-time? It's a pain getting up in the middle of the night. * teases* FRODI: Hey, it's not my fault if your son has unsociable hours, and decides to make his appearance through the night. * looks at Solan* Isn't that right Solan? Frodi kisses Solan's forehead, making him smile. FRODI: See! He definately has your smile, Nick. NICK: And he has your cute little hobbity nose. * kisses Frodi's nose* Frodi & Nick head into the living room, and Frodi puts Solan in his rocker seat. She lays a cuddly teddy next to him, which he seems to love. She also turns on a mobile musical toy for him to listen to. He's soon having fun, gurgling happily, cuddling up to the teddy, and listening to the musical mobile.
Nick watches, as Frodi gets Solan settled in his rocker seat. NICK: So that's Solan settled... what about me? FRODI: You? Do you want a musical toy, as well? * sticks her tongue out* NICK: I want a musical hobbit! Nick grabs Frodi, and they kiss each other passionately. FRODI: Hmm, now THAT is a Welcome Home kiss! Still kissing, Nick guides Frodi towards the settee, and they both fall onto the settee. FRODI: Now who put that settee there? * giggles* NICK: I have absolutely no idea. * grins* FRODI: * giggling* I feel like a naughty school girl, with Solan watching. NICK: * turns to look at Solan* Solan, do you mind if I kiss your mummy? SOLAN: * gurgles* NICK: * turns back to Frodi* He doesn't mind at all. * leans in and kisses Frodi* Nick pulls Frodi's feet up onto his lap, and starts rubbing them. Frodi smiles, and lovingly touches his arm. NICK: Eurus will be home from nursery soon. She was so excited this morning, she didn't even want to go to nursery. She wanted to stay home, to welcome you and Solan back. FRODI: But you convinced her to go to nursery anyway? That's the Zarano charm showing through. *smiles* Sein Dor Hospital, Underground Research Room...
Mary Walsh is overseeing another session with Ben, John, and the other 3 men. She watches them closely, as they sit strapped in their chairs, with the mysterious drug pumping into them. She checks her watch, and takes notes, documenting how long each session lasts (how long the drug is pumping into them), and their reactions. The men don't even seem to realise that she's been increasing the time for each session.
She checks her watch again - that's enough time for this session. MARY: Okay boys, wakey wakey. The men open their eyes, as Mary unstraps them. And as before, the men are in a euphoric state as they stand up. MARY: Ben? Everything okay? BEN: * nods* Yep. I always feel so alive at these sessions. MARY: Good, good. Mary checks the pulse of each of the 5 men, and logs it in her notes. MARY: Okay boys, ready for some exercise? Mary leads the men over to another part of the huge room, where some treadmills are lined up in a row. They've obviously done this before, because they know what is expected of them. They each put on a 'breathing mask' to restrict the flow of oxygen into their lungs, then they jump on to the treadmill. Mary sets the treadmills to 'Maximum' - the men have to run fast, to keep up with the treadmill. After 30 minutes of running on the treamill, Mary tells the men to stop. After that gruelling workout, one would expect the men to be tired and out of breath... but they've barely broken a sweat! Mary smiles, obviously pleased with the results. Her mysterious drug is working.
Wyndermere Island...
Lorenzo is out in one of the gardens. Thanks to The Woman's encouragement, he's taking up drawing. And after he expressed his new interest to Myca & Sebastion, they gave him a proper sketch pad. He's glad to have such good friends. Now he's busy sketching his favourite fountain - the one where he had his first kiss with The Woman.
The Woman creeps up behind him, and puts her hands over his eyes. THE WOMAN: Guess who? LORENZO: *smiles, and plays along with her* Ummm... Sebastion? THE WOMAN: * laughs* No. LORENZO: Not Sebastion? Then you must be his charming wife, Myca? THE WOMAN: Try again. LORENZO: I know! You're the guy that cleans Sebastion's fencing swords? THE WOMAN: * giggles* No silly! It's me! The woman uncovers Lorenzo's eyes, and sits down next to him. LORENZO: The most beautiful woman on this island! That was my next guess. * kisses her* THE WOMAN: That's more like it. * smiles* She looks at the half-finished sketch Lorenzo's busy with, and takes it from him to get a better look. THE WOMAN: This is amazing, Lorenzo! * looks between the sketch, and the actual fountain* I love the way you've drawn the water shoots coming down. It almost looks like it's really moving - so realistic. LORENZO: This fountain is special, so the drawing has to be perfect. THE WOMAN: This is the fountain where we first kissed. * twirls her long hair round her finger, and kisses him* LORENZO: * nods* I was so nervous, thinking you would slap me, or walk away, or never talk to me again, or something. THE WOMAN: Hehe. No way! I had been wanting you to kiss me for a while, but I was too shy. LORENZO: I'm glad we're together now, though. * kisses her, and takes his sketch book back* It's a pity I can't draw * YOU* anymore. You're definately my favourite subject. THE WOMAN: Why can't you draw me anymore? LORENZO: Cos you said you didn't want me to. Remember? Yesterday, under the tree. THE WOMAN: * shakes her head* You must have been dreaming, Lorenzo. I never said that. I kinda like you drawing me... it makes me feel special. Lorenzo looks puzzled - he distinctly remembers her telling him yesterday, not to draw her anymore. She must have changed her mind. Still, he doesn't want to argue with her. LORENZO: You * ARE* special! But now... I don't know if I want to draw you again. Maybe I'll still with fountains, from now, until my dying day. * teases* THE WOMAN: Oh, please? *plays with his long hair* LORENZO: *kisses her* Okay. Not today though. Myca & Sebastion might want to see what I've been drawing out here, and I can't let them see any sketches of you. The Woman doesn't want Myca & Sebastion to know about her, and asked Lorenzo not to mention her to them. Lorenzo respects her wishes, and hasn't told anyone about her. That also means he has to hide his drawings of her. Sein Dor Hospital...
Ben is back on his shift in the lab, as though he had never had a session with Mary followed by the gruelling treadmill run. He hears a gentle knocking at the door, and looks up. It's Trina, so he goes to open the door to let her in. BEN: Hey there Trina. Fancy seeing you here... come here often? * jokes* TRINA: Fairly often. * grins* I'm on my break... fancy going down to the canteen? BEN: Ack! Technically, I had my break. But John and me had to work through it, so... sure, why not? I could do with a breather. And I'm in charge of this lab anyway. * grins* Ben grabs his keys, locks up his lab, and follows Trina towards the canteen. As they walk along the corridor, Trina watches him out of the corner of her eye. She's glad they had remained friends. He's such a sweet, caring guy. She definitely has a crush on him now! Zarano Manor...
Mid-afternoon, Sabag visits, bringing back Lucy and Oscar. SABAG: How's my favourite sis, and my newest nephew? Glad to be home again? FRODI: Hehe, we're fine. And definitely glad to be home. Thanks for looking after Lucy and Oscar. Did you have fun with those 2 terrors? SABAG: It was my pleasure. And we had lots of fun! *looks at Lucy and Oscar* We enjoyed knocking down the toy bricks that Uncle Sabag made into castles, didn't we? *chuckles, and tickles the twins tummies* Lucy and Oscar just giggle. Knocking down Uncle Sabag's bricks is a LOT of fun for them. SABAG: * looks back at Frodi* And thought it would give Nick a chance to bring you and Solan home. * looks around* So where is my youngest nephew? NICK: *walks into the room, carrying Solan* He's right here, Sabag. Just woke up from his nap. SABAG: There he is! Nick gives Solan to Sabag, to hold for a while. SABAG: I'm your Uncle Sabag. * looks up at Frodi & Nick* He really takes after the pair of you. FRODI: * smiles proudly* Thanks. SABAG: *to Solan* Are you going to smile for me? Hmmm? Have you got a smile for your Uncle Sabag? Solan looks at Sabag, and yawns. SABAG: Oh, what a big yawn, Solan. Sabag stays for a while, fussing over the kids as he chats to Frodi & Nick. Then he gets up to leave. SABAG: Anyway, I can't stay. You two probably want some time alone with this little one, before the other kids come home. Sabag hugs Frodi, Nick, Solan, Lucy, and Oscar 'Goodbye', then leaves. Wyndermere Island...
In the drawing room, Myca & Sebastion are talking. SEBASTION: So where is our esteemed guest, this afternoon? MYCA: He's probably out in the garden somewhere, drawing in his sketch book. SEBASTION: Indeed. This new hobby of his is certainly keeping him busy. MYCA: He's actually quite good. Have you seen any of his drawings? SEBASTION: I have. His drawing of the beach where we found him is to be applauded. MYCA: He certainly has hidden talents. But you, my love, have talents that lie elsewhere. Myca lies down across the table. SEBASTION: Ohhhhh, I LOVE it when you get erotic with me! Sebastion stands up, grabs his goblet of wine and starts sipping from it, then leans down and kisses Myca on the table.
Zarano Manor...
Late that night, after all the kids are in bed, Frodi & Nick finally relax in their bedroom. FRODI: Phew! It's been a busy day today. NICK: * climbs into bed* Yeah, I'm exhausted. FRODI: YOU'RE exhausted? You didn't have to breastfeed a hungry baby every couple of hours. * sticks tongue out* NICK: * chuckles* But you looked so cute, doing it. Well, you're cute anyway. * holds his hand out for her* FRODI: *climbs into bed, takes his hand, and kisses him* Smooth-talker. Anyway, Solan's down for a couple of hours now. Nick looks at her, and runs his fingers through her hair. Frodi leans in, and kisses his soft lips, and his neck, and his ear. FRODI: I love you Nick! NICK: And I love YOU! They clasp hands, with their fingers intertwining, and Frodi kisses his chest. Nick squeezes her hands, enjoying this immensely. Frodi's kisses get lower, as she kisses his tummy, and his bellybutton... and down to his package. She gently strokes and squeezes it, while she is kissing. She kisses all round his legs, tummy, and belly button, while she strokes his package. And as she can feel his package getting harder, she also feels herself getting wetter. She looks up at Nick... he has his head leaned back, enjoying the sensation. FRODI: *kisses his package* Like this? NICK: * nods* Uh-huh! Nick pulls her up towards him, and kisses her cheek, her lips, her breasts. He reaches down, and fingers her down below, and she gives out a moan of pleasure. He rolls over, so he is on top of her, and kisses her forehead. FRODI: * softly* Niiiiiiiccccccckkkkkk. He tweaks her nipples, and a trickle of milk comes out. Nick leans down and kisses her pointy hobbity ears. She strokes his hair, feeling more excited, and getting wetter by the second. And she can feel Nick's brick-hard package pressed against her. How is it possible to love someone so much? How is it possible that Nick loves her back? How did she get so lucky? She wraps her legs around him. He shifts slightly... and enters her! The Next Day...
Sein Dor Hospital...
Ben's pager buzzes. He checks it... it's Mary. He makes his way down to the secret underground research room. BEN: Mary! Got your page. Is everything okay? MARY: Everything's fine Ben. It's time for a session. BEN: It's not our usual day. MARY: No, this is an extra session. This is an extra session. Just for you. Go and sit down. Ben doesn't question her. He sits down in his usual chair, while Mary straps him in, and inserts the large needle into his arm. Mary sets the dosage as usual... but then pauses, and decides to increase the dose to double. She's getting impatient... wanting more results quicker. She also wants to know if a higher dose will increase results.
Ben flinches, as the drug enters his system, and then closes his eye as the drug takes effect. Zarano Manor... NICK: * quietly creeps up behind Frodi* BOOO! FRODI: * jumps* NICK! Oh, you scared me! * turns round and kisses him* NICK: I scared you? * raises his eyebrow* You weren't scared of me last night! * grins* FRODI: Last night... *gets a goofy grin, as she thinks about last night* Last night was... MAGICAL! * strokes his face* NICK: So you didn't miss the hospital bed * teases* FRODI: Let's see... hospital bed... own bed with my soulmate... hospital bed... own bed with my soulmate... that's a tough one. *laughs*
Nick smiles, and leans down and French kisses her.
Sein Dor Hospital...
After 15 minutes, Mary stops the dosage.
MARY: Wake up Ben. How do you feel? BEN: * euphoric* On top of the world! MARY: * pauses* I wonder if you could do me a favour? I want this desk moved. Could you do it for me? Ben looks at the desk. It's very big and solid, but he doesn't hesitate. BEN: Sure. Where do you want it? MARY: How about... over there? * points to another corner* Ben walks over and starts tugging at the desk. Even though it's solid and heavy, he tries to move it. It's a struggle for him, but he manages, one 'tug' at a time, to move it slowly.
Mary makes a mental note, then walks over to him, and places her hand on his back.
MARY: I've changed my mind... the desk is fine where it is, thankyou, Ben.
Ben manages to push the desk back into place. Then Mary says he can go back to his shift upstairs in the hospital. Little does Ben realise, Mary was only testing his strength by asking him to move the desk.
|
|
|
Post by Frodo on Nov 18, 2016 23:48:35 GMT
Zarano Manor...
Frodi is down on the floor, playing with Solan - tickling him, talking baby talk to him, shaking his rattle at him, etc. And he is enjoying himself, giggling away happily. FRODI: Who's a good boy then? Are you a good boy? Yes you are. And mummy loves you very much. Yes she does. *tickles his foot* Solan laughs, and instinctively moves his foot. FRODI: * smiles* Has someone got tickly feet? Has someone got tickly feet? Solan has tickly feet. *tickles his foot again* Yes he does. Oh yes he does. *blows a raspberry on him* Frodi shakes the rattle, and Solan looks towards the sound. FRODI: Do you like that? I think you do. * smiles* Nick appears in the doorway. A smile plays on his lips, as he watches Frodi and Solan. NICK: Is this a private conversation, or can anyone join in? Frodi looks up at Nick, and smiles. FRODI: I think anyone can join in. * laughs* Solan was just demanding some play time. She looks back at Solan. FRODI: Look Solan, it's your daddy. Do you know how much I love your daddy? I love him very, very, very much! Frodi picks up Solan and walks towards Nick. FRODI: *to Solan* Shall we sing a song for your daddy? * sings to the tune of 'Baby I Love Your Way'* Ooh Ni-ick, I love your way. Gotta tell you I love your way. Wanna be with you night and day. I love your WAAAA-AAAAYYYYY. She reaches Nick, and kisses him. NICK: * smiles and strokes her hair* Just so happens, I love you, too. FRODI: Solan's got TICKLY FEET! * tickles Solan's feet, making him giggle again* NICK: Is that so? Nick playfully tickles Solan's feet, and he giggles. NICK: Hmmm, so he has. Someone else I know also has tickly feet. *looks hard at Frodi* Isn't that right... FRODI? FRODI: Uh... I have absolutely no idea who you are talking about. * stiffles a giggle* NICK: Are you denying you have tickly feet? FRODI: Um... no comment. *sticks her tongue out* Nick smiles, and tucks her hair behind her ears, leans down, and kisses her. With her free hand (she's still holding Solan), she gently strokes Nick's cheek, and french kisses him.
Sein Dor Hospital...
Ben, John, and the others have just finished another session with Mary. Now they return to their duties, feeling very euphoric.
As Ben and John head for the lab, the bump into Trina as she is doing her rounds. Ben smiles at her. TRINA: * smiles* Hey Ben. Hey John. Nice to see you both. BEN: * smiles* Nice to see you too, Trina. So what are you up to? TRINA: Just doing my rounds. Urgh, it's been non-stop, since I started my shift. BEN: No rest for the wicked, eh? TRINA: * laughs* SO true! Anyway, how are you? BEN: You know how it is... a lab technician's work is never done. TRINA: Hehe. Poor Ben. BEN: Tell me about it! I have a boat-load of blood samples I need to prepare. * pause* Got any blood you don't need? * teases* TRINA: Sorry Ben, I kinda need all my blood right now. BEN: * snaps his fingers* Aww, shucks! * puts on an accent* I vant-a to suck-a your blood-a. Trina laughs. BEN: Anyway, I really should get back to it. TRINA: * nods* Okay. It was lovely to see you. Bye Ben. Bye John. JOHN: Bye. BEN: Bye Trina. Trina brushes her hand against Ben's arm as she says 'Bye' to him. She smiles, and watches as Ben and John head off towards the lab. Round the corner, John stops, and looks at Ben. BEN: John? JOHN: Well that was... interesting. BEN: What? Trina? JOHN: You still like her, don't you? Admit it. BEN: Yeah, I like her. Why wouldn't I? JOHN: But you * LIKE* her! BEN: * laughs* Come on, John. She's just a friend, that's all. JOHN: Just friends? For two people who supposedly have no romantic interest in each other, there was DEFINATELY a lot of chemistry there. BEN: You're imagining things. JOHN: Am I? BEN: ... JOHN: You should ask her out. BEN: I did, remember. But there was no connection. *starts walking again* JOHN: Maybe not then, but the way she was looking at you just now... she's definitely into you. *walks alongside Ben* BEN: You're just an old romantic, John. Seeing things that aren't there. * chuckles* They turn another corner, and reach the lab. BEN: Anyway, here's the lab. See you later, buddy. * gives John a friendly pat on the back* JOHN: Yup. See you later. Ben enters his lab, while John carries on to his duties.
Zarano Manor...
Frodi is sitting in the easy-chair, breastfeeding Solan. She loves the feeling of him sucking from her. She talks to him, and strokes his head as he's feeding. And he looks up at her intensely.
A cartoon is playing on the TV, keeping Lucy and Oscar amused as they bounce in their bouncy chairs. FRODI: Are you are hungry baby, Solan? Your big brother and sister are watching a cartoon. Isn't that fun? Solan continues to suck noisily from Frodi.
Nick brings a glass of water for Frodi, so she won't get thirsty as she is breastfeeding Solan. He sits down next to her, strokes Solan's arm, then kisses Frodi. NICK: * rubs her shoulders* Why is it, when your boobs get big like this, I'm not allowed to touch them? * laughs* FRODI: * looks at him and smiles* So you only want me for my big boobs? * sticks her tongue out* NICK: Well, I do like 'em... but... I don't mind sharing them with our son. As long as I get this! Nick touches Frodi's lips, fingering them gently. Then he touches her cheek, and kisses her, as she continues to feed Solan. FRODI: Mmmm! My lips are all yours! * smiles* Wyndemere Island...
Lorenzo is in his room. He's busy working on another sketch of The Woman. As his confidence in drawing grows, he's becoming more creative, trying different styles and techniques. This one has her lying on his bed, with a crown of roses in her hair. He's deiberately smudging his pencil lines as he draws, giving it a dream-like quality. He's sketching her from memory, and he can't wait to show it to her.
He looks up at the clock, and notices the time. LORENZO: Oh shoot! I'm late for my appointment with the doctor. * puts his sketch pad and pencil down* Lorenzo still has regular appointments with the doctor, where he has the chance to discuss anything that's worrying him.
In the doctor's office, Lorenzo tells him how much he enjoys drawing, and how he feels it's helped him come to terms with his memory loss. However, the doctor decides to try another 'Alphabet Test' - Lorenzo has to go through the alphabet, naming 2 things for each letter. The doctor hopes, if he does this every so often, it may help to jog Lorenzo's memory.
He starts with 'A', and continues through the alphabet, naming common, insignificant things. Then he reaches 'Q', and something happens. He gets a flash of a darkened room in his mind - just for a split second, then it's gone again. He stands up, suddenly. LORENZO: * clenches his fist* QUEEN! DOCTOR: * looks at him* Queen? That's an interesting thing to say. What comes to mind, when you think of the word 'queen'? LORENZO: ... I don't know. Nothing. I think. DOCTOR: Well, queens are female. Do you think of Myca as a queen? It was her that found you on the beach, after all, so technically, it was her that saved your life. LORENZO: No. * shakes his head* I think a lot of Myca, and I'm really grateful to her, AND to Sebastion. They've both become good friends. But I don't think of Myca as a queen, in any way. DOCTOR: * checks his notes* Once before, you remembered 'Francis' (Francesca) as we were doing this. Can you remember anything more about 'Francis'? LORENZO: No. I don't think so. ARRH, this does my head in. *goes over to the window, and looks out* Sometimes I'm okay with not remembering my past. But sometimes... sometimes I still can't help wondering how I ended up on this beach, with a bullet wound, and only one kidney! DOCTOR: The answers are locked somewhere in your mind. We just have to find the key to unlock those memories. The doctor takes note of the word 'Queen' in Lorenzo's records, as well as his reaction. Then they carry on through the rest of the alphabet. But nothing else significant happens. Zarano Manor...
Frodi has gone to put Solan down for a nap. But as time ticks by, Nick notices she's been gone for a long time. What's keeping her? He makes his way up to Solan's room, to see what's taking her so long... but she isn't there!
Eventually, he finds her in their bedroom. She's standing in front of the mirror, with her dress lowered, and her back to the mirror. She's looking at her mutilated back in the mirror - the name 'Stengolas' still screams out as raw and angry as ever.
She turns to look at Nick, close to tears. She bites her lip, trying not to cry. FRODI: * quietly* He's still out there, Nick. Somewhere. He's still out there. Without a word, Nick walks over to her, and wraps his arms around her. He can't stand seeing his wife so upset. And his hatred for Stengolas is beyond measure. FRODI: I try not to let it get to me, but sometimes... *her voice breaks off* Will his thirst for revenge ever end? What's he going to do next? NICK: *trying to comfort her* He's not going to hurt you ever again! I promise you this! *holds her tightly* Sein Dor School...
Vincent is looking frantically through his schoolbag, a look of panic on his face. Jazzy sees him, and runs over. JAZZY: Hey Vincent. VINCENT: * glances up* Hey Jazzy. *looks in his schoolbag again* JAZZY: What's up? VINCENT: Can't find my Geography notes. ANYWHERE! They're not in my bag. They're not in the cafeteria. They're not in the corridor. I'm sure I haven't dropped them. JAZZY: When did you last see them? VINCENT: In Geography class, this morning. JAZZY: Don't panic Vincent. We're in the same class - you can copy my notes, after school today. VINCENT: Really? * smiles* Thanks Jazzy. You are a life-saver! JAZZY: No problem. That's what girlfriends are for. Zarano Manor...
Frodi has fallen asleep, exhausted after the emotional stress of the Stengolas situation, as well as lack of sleep from having to feed Solan every 2 hours. Nick lies with her a while, just to make sure she doesn't wake up. Stengolas can't be allowed to get away with what he's done! He gently kisses Frodi's cheek, then gets up, and leaves the room.
Outside the room, he quietly closes the door, so as not to disturb Frodi. Then he pulls out his mobile, and dials a number. The other person quickly picks up. Nick sends a picture of Stengolas, as Dr Finn, to Tony, then puts his mobile away. He's looking forward to teaching Stengolas a lesson!
Later that afternoon, Frodi has woken up, unaware of Nick's phonecall. But she always feels better in Nick's arms.
A short time later, Vincent bursts through the front door, with Jazzy in tow. VINCENT: Hey mum, dad. I lost my notes for Geography class, so Jazzy is letting me copy hers. Is that okay? FRODI: Sure Sweety. Nice to see you again Jazzy. Would you like to stay for tea? JAZZY: No thankyou Mrs Zarano. Can't stay for long, I just wanted to help Vincent out. Frodi smiles a 'Thankyou', then lets the teenagers head up to Vincent's room.
The Next Day...
Sein Dor Hospital...
Ben and Trina are in the staff canteen, enjoying a well-earned break. BEN: * to Trina* I was talking to one of the patients yesterday. Poor woman's convinced she's a lemon... she's lost all zest for life. TRINA: * bursts out laughing, and splutters her drink* BEN, you really had me going there. BEN: Forget about the woman who thinks she's a lemon. What about me? I had a blood test the other day... it took a lot out of me. TRINA: Your jokes get worse. * groans* BEN: Maybe. But you laugh at them anyway. TRINA: I know. I really shouldn't encourage you, Ben Brogan. * smiles* As Trina looks down to take another sip of her drink... Ben, unexpectedly, leans across the table and kisses her. TRINA: BEN!!! WHAT ARE YOU DOING? BEN: Sorry. Was that too much? TRINA: YES! BEN: Sorry, I'll try and take things more slowly. *clears his throat* Trina, would you like to come out on a date with me again? I know we tried this before, and it didn't work out. But we didn't end up hating each other. I think it's worth trying again, don't you? * nervous* Trina thinks for a while. She has been attracted to Ben recently, and she regrets not feeling the attraction before. But should she go on another date with him? What's the worst that could happen? They remain friends, just as they are now? But on the other hand... what if things work out this time? What if they go on a date, and they 'click'? Wouldn't that be fantastic? She smiles at Ben, and nods. TRINA: Yes Ben, I think I'd like to go on a date with you. Ben smiles with relief. She didn't turn him down. BEN: Wonderful! * thinks* How about today, after work, before you change your mind? We could go for a meal out? Beep beep beep beep.... beep beep beep beep.... beep beep beep beep
Ben's pager goes off. He looks at it, and sees it's Mary summoning him for another session. Perfect! A session with Mary, and a date with Trina to look forward to. Today is going to be a good day. BEN: * waves his pager at Trina* Sorry Trina, duty calls. * stands up, ready to leave* So... is it a date then? TRINA: * nods* Yes, it's a date. A meal out sounds lovely! I'm already looking forward to it. * smiles* BEN: Wonderful! * beams happily* I'll see you later then. Trina watches Ben as he leaves, grinning from ear to ear. She's really excited about this date with Ben. She finishes her drink quickly, then goes off to find Elizabeth, eager to tell her friend the news.
Zarano Manor...
While Solan, and the twins, are down for a nap, Frodi & Nick are taking advantage of the quiet time by enjoying a relaxing time in the pool. A radio plays nearby, as they gently splash each other. Then Nick grabs her, clasping her hands, as he holds her at the side of the pool. NICK: * playfully* You're my prisoner now Frodi Zarano. What are you going to do? * smiles* FRODI: I'm going to do the only thing I * can* do - kiss you! * kisses his nose* NICK: Good answer. * grins, and kisses her lips* Frodi clasps Nick's hands tightly, as they share another kiss. And as another song comes on to the radio, Frodi sings along to it, looking deep into Nick's eyes. FRODI: I can't help falling in love with you Nick. * touches his face*
Sein Dor Hospital...
As Ben enters the underground research room, we see Mary writing something down in her diary. She looks up at Ben, as he approaches her. B EN: Hey Mary. Session time again already? * rubs his hands together in glee* I'm ready when you are. MARY: Great! Let's get started then. Go and sit down in your chair. Ben dashes over to the row of chairs, and sits down in his usual chair. Mary puts her pen down, and walks over to Ben, ready to hook him up and insert the needles into him. As she does so, she forgets to put her diary away, and we see what she was writing: MARY: Okay Ben, are you ready? BEN: * in the chair* Yep. Ready and waiting. Mary straps his arms and legs down, then straps his head, so he can't move. Then she inserts the device with the large needle into his arm - he flinches as the needle goes in, then closes his eyes. Mary glances at him, then sets the controls on the device, so the drug pumping into him is twice the usual dose.
Zarano Manor...
Frodi had gone out to collect Eurus from nursery. Now they've arrived home, and Eurus hops around excitedly. FRODI: Are you going to show daddy what you did at nursery today? * smiles* EURUS: DADDDDDYYYYYYYYYY Eurus runs off to find Nick. When she finds him in the living room, she jumps into his arms. EURUS: Daddy, we were making paper plate dinosaurs at nursery today. And... and... and I made one for you. * proudly holds out her creation for Nick*
Nick takes the paper plate dinosaur from her, pulling Eurus onto his know, and looks at it carefully. NICK: Wow, fantastic work Eurus. I love the colours. And all his spots. EURUS: I made that one specially for you. That's a boy dinosaur. I made a girl dinosaur for mummy. NICK: Aren't we lucky, to get a dinosaur each. FRODI: * entering the room* My dinosaur is pink & blue * shows her dinosaur* These are beautiful. Can we put these up on the wall Eurus? EURUS: * giggles excitedly* YES! Frodi kisses Nick a 'Hello' kiss, before pinning both dinosaurs up on the wall. Eurus is extremely - proud of her work.
Sein Dor Hospital...
Ben's shift has finished at the hospital. He goes to find Trina, hoping she hasn't changed her mind about the date. She hasn't. In fact, she's been thinking about it since he asked her this morning. And she's really excited about it.
Ben takes her to a lovely restaurant. He's the perfect gentleman for the whole evening, and Trina thoroughly enjoys herself. She can't remember when she's had so much fun.
At the end of the date, Ben gets nervous again, as he leans in for a goodnight kiss. But this time, Trina was expecting it... and she liked it! BEN: I had an amazing time this evening, Trina. TRINA: Me too! * smiles* BEN: Would you like to go out with me again? TRINA: * nods* I would love to Ben! I really would! BEN: * grins* I'll have more jokes prepared. TRINA: Oh god, please, no. * teases* BEN: * laughs* See you tomorrow at the hospital then. TRINA: * nods* Night Ben. Take care. Thanks for a lovely evening. Trina watches as Ben walks away, then goes into her house. Wow, that Goodnight Kiss. SO different from their first date several months ago. She definately felt sparks tonight. She has to tell Elizabeth all about it tomorrow.
Zarano Manor...
It's Eurus's bedtime. Frodi is tucking her into bed, and telling her a bedtime story. FRODI: Are you all tucked up? As snug as a bug in a rug? EURUS: Yes mummy. Now tell me a story? FRODI: Okay, let me think. Once there was a dragon. But this was no ordinary dragon... this was a very special dragon. His name was Flamer. And he flew backwards. And instead of breathing fire... he breathed rainbow-flavour popcorn. EURUS: * giggles* MUMMY! Dragons don't breathe rainbows... they breathe fire. Everyone knows that. FRODI: Not Flamer. I told you he was special. EURUS: Did he breathe out anything else, as well as popcorn? FRODI: Nope. Just the rainbow-flavoured popcorn. Frodi continues telling the story of 'Flamer the dragon', making it up as she goes along, until Eurus falls asleep.
Frodi goes back downstairs, and sits next to Nick. She snuggles into Nick, with her head resting on his shoulder. He puts his arm around her shoulder, twirling her hair round his finger. FRODI: That's Eurus out for the count, now. NICK: Mmmm. Flamer the backwards-flying rainbow dragon? * raises his eyebrow* FRODI: Rainbow-flavoured popcorn dragon, IF you please. * sticks her tongue out* And Eurus likes him. Nick smiles, pulls Frodi's feet up on to his lap, and starts rubbing her feet. She wriggles her toes, loving Nick's footrub. He really does have the magic touch.
|
|
|
Post by Frodo on Nov 18, 2016 23:48:53 GMT
Sein Dor Hospital...
Two weeks have passed, and Trina & Ben are now an established couple. Both of them feel ’sparkage’ for the other now, unlike the first time they tried to date John has mixed feelings about this. On one hand, he’s glad to see his friend happy. On the other hand, he doesn’t know how much a girlfriend would interfere with Mary’s sessions. Thankfully, Mary has forbidden the group to talk about the sessions with anyone else.
Trina & Ben are enjoying lunch together, in the staff canteen. Ben playfully steals a chip from her plate. TRINA: HEY! That’s my chip, you monster. BEN: Oh sorry, do you want it back? *munches half the chip* TRINA: Not now you’ve eaten half of it. Beast! * laughs* Both of them laugh. Then Ben turns serious, and takes her hand. BEN: Do you still think about your old husband these days? TRINA: Luca? Do I still think about Luca? BEN: * nods* I’m glad you told me about him. TRINA: I’m glad I told you about him, too. And yes, sometimes I think about what happened to him. What was going through his mind, as he fell from the cliff. What was he thinking, as he drowned. What a horrible way to die! Did he KNOW he was going to die? * pause* He‘s still there, at the bottom of the ocean… they never did find his body. Maybe if I had done more to help him… MADE him see a psychiatrist… maybe he wouldn’t have been up on that cliff, injecting morphine and anaesthetic into my pregnant friend. BEN: Trina, listen! It wasn’t your fault. None of it! From what you tell me, Luca was a very sick man. You did everything you could, but in the end, he was to WANT to get help. TRINA: … BEN: Trust me, I work in a hospital. I know these things. Trina gives a small smile.
Suddenly, the loud speaker blares out an announcement in the staff canteen. Ben looks at the loud speaker, then at Trina. BEN: I should go and help. Bye. Ben gives Trina a peck on the lips, then rushes down to the car park.
He arrives in the car park, and finds a group of people standing around a large vehicle. The driver is distraught - apparently the little girl just ran out in front of him, and there was no way he could stop in time.
A few men are already trying to lift the van, so the little girl can be pulled to safety without injuring her further… but it seems an impossible task. The van is just too heavy. They either need more men to help, or they need a machine to raise the vehicle straight up.
By the time Trina reaches the car park, Ben has already taken his place with the other men around van. But while they brace themselves for another attempt… Ben lifts the van with relative ease. The men stare at him in amazement, while the paramedics waste no time in pulling the girl out from under the van. TRINA: * runs over and hugs him* Ben, how did you DO that? You are a HERO! * beams proudly* BEN: Ah, it was nothing. It was a team effort. TRINA: No, it wasn’t. I saw it all, Ben. They other men were trying, but it was YOU who managed to lift that van up. *kisses him* BEN: * blushes* I guess… adrenaline must have just kicked in. I saw that little girl lying there, trapped under the wheels, and I HAD to do something. I had to help her. Ben looks at the paramedics, who now have the girl on a stretcher, and are wheeling her into the hospital. BEN: Is she going to be okay? PARAMEDIC: She has a MUCH better chance now, than she did 5 minutes ago, thanks to you lifting that van. Dunno how you did it, but nice work. Cheers mate! *gives Ben a friendly slap on the back* TRINA: *hugging Ben* He’s right, you know. You deserve a medal! Zarano Manor…
Frodi has just put Solan down for a nap, and now she’s looking for Nick. She sees a light on in the study. She goes to investigate, and finds Nick in a chair, staring out the window. FRODI: There you are! *walks over, and kisses him* You look a million miles away - are you okay? NICK: … Yeah. FRODI: I made you some coffee. Just the way you like it. *hands him a mug of coffee* Nick smiles a ‘Thankyou’, takes a sip of coffee, and puts it down on the desk. FRODI: Solan went out like a light. NICK: … That’s good. FRODI: Want to go for a dip in the pool? NICK: Maybe later. * gives a small smile* Frodi starts rubbing his shoulders. Nick has been so distracted the last week or so… as if he something on his mind that’s troubling him. She’s worried about him. FRODI: * softly* What’s troubling you Nick? NICK: Nothing! Don’t worry. Nick pulls Frodi, so she’s in front of him. He cradles her face, and kisses her. Then he wraps his arms around her, holding her tight. He just sits there for a while, just holding her. Frodi has her arms tightly around him, as well, and she gently kisses the top of his head.
A few minutes later, he stands up. NICK: *stroking her hair* I have to go out for a while. Will you be okay? FRODI: * nods* Yeah. Want me to come with you? Nick shakes his head, gives her another kiss, then leaves. Golden Haven Hotel…
At a quiet hotel on the outskirts of town, a couple are checking into their room. DESK CLERK: Welcome to Golden Haven Hotel, Mrs & Mrs Jones. Your room is 318, up on the 3rd floor. Here’s your key. A few minutes later, ‘Mr & Mrs Jones’ enter their room, and sit down on the bed with a huge sigh. ‘MR JONES’: So… should I keep calling you ‘Rachel Jones’? Or can I call you by your real name now? ‘MRS JONES’: In here, you can call me by my real name. *kisses him* And I won’t have to call you ‘Jeremy Jones’ either. In this room, we can be ourselves. ‘MR JONES’: Why the need for secrecy, anyway? ‘MRS JONES’: I’m just not ready for anyone to know we’re back. And I can’t face going home… too many horrible memories. ‘MR JONES’: *nods* I can understand that. Why don’t you let me take your mind off things? She smiles, and lies back in the bed. Luca’s Old Art Studio…
Nick arrives at Luca‘s old art studio. He enters, and inhales sharply. He’s never liked this place - mainly cos it was Luca’s place…Luca’s obsession with his wife grew here… Luca tortured his wife here for weeks. He shudders. But for now…it will serve a purpose.
As he turns the corner into the back section, he sees a chair, with someone gagged and tied up in it. That someone… is Stengolas. A couple of men are standing guard over Stengolas. And as Nick approaches Stengolas, we see various cuts and bruises on him. Nick roughly pulls the gag out of Stengolas’s mouth. NICK: Still alive then? Pity! STENGOLAS: *spits out blood* How long are you going to keep me here? NICK: As long as I want! Got a problem with that? *punches Stengolas hard* STENGOLAS: * groans* Yeah, I got a problem! Does it make you feel big? Keeping me prisoner here? Beating me. What gives you the right? NICK: * squats down to Stengolas’s level* What gave YOU the right, to play doctor? Abuse the trust of a pregnant woman…knock her out with drugs every time she had an appointment with you… excuse me… every time she had an appointment with fucking Dr Finn… and do god knows what to her when she‘s unconscious? What gave YOU the right to mutilate her by carving your name into her back? What gave YOU the right to shatter her confidence? STENGOLAS: Hehehe. But that was FUN! Hehehehe. Nick stands up, and kicks out at the chair Stengolas is tied to, knocking it over. STENGOLAS: HEY! What was that for? NICK: It was fun… MOTHERFUCKER! STENGOLAS: That bitch deserves everything she gets. Nick steps on Stengolas’s neck. NICK: Want to repeat that? STENGOLAS: * choking* NICK: Speak up. Can’t hear you. STENGOLAS: … No. NICK: *steps off Stengolas’s neck* Good. Nick signals his men to pick up Stengolas’s chair. STENGOLAS: *glares at Nick* What do you want from me? NICK: Oh, I just want to have some fun. And teach you a lesson that NOBODY fucks with my wife! Stengolas opens his mouth to say something, but then thinks better of it, and closes his mouth again. NICK: Good. I’m glad we’re coming to an understanding. Nick punches Stengolas again, then starts to walk away. STENGOLAS: *calls after him* You can’t keep me here forever, you know. Sooner or later, you’re gonna have to let me go. NICK: * shouts over his shoulder* Don’t count on it. Outside the art studio, Nick leans against the wall, and thinks back to 10 days ago. Sein Dor Hospital, Underground Research Room…
Mid-afternoon, it’s been a couple of hours since the car park incident, and Trina & Ben are back on duty. Now Ben is checking in with Mary for his daily session. MARY: So how are you feeling today Ben? BEN: Great! Better than great. *jiggles excitedly* You’ll never guess what happened today! MARY: What happened today? BEN: At lunchtime, this little girl was in an accident. Don’t worry, I think she’s going to be alright. But she was trapped under this van, and if the driver had moved his van an inch… he would have hurt the little girl even more. But I managed to lift it, so the paramedics could get to her. I’m going to go and see her again, after hour session. Mary smiles. This is fantastic news! This proves her serum is working! She’s thrilled to know how strong Ben is now. Of course, it’s what she had hoped for really. Ben is already having daily sessions, while the rest of the men only have sessions every 2-3 days. And as well as that, at each session, Ben is receiving 3 times the dose the other men are. But she can’t rest there…she must increase the dose further. She needs to know how far this will go. MARY: * smiles* That’s wonderful news Ben. You are a lifesaver to that little girl. BEN: Well, I couldn’t just leave her trapped under the van. Ben sits down in his chair, as they talk, and Mary straps him in as usual. And while Ben is busy talking to her, she sets the dose for double what he received yesterday - 6 times as much as the other men. MARY: Ready Ben? BEN: Always. * smiles* Mary inserts the needle into him, and starts the dose running. Ben twitches as the serum enters his system, but then he closes his eyes as he goes under.
Mary heads over to her desk, and sits down. She pulls a tape recorder out from her desk drawer, and starts recording. Mary turns off the tape recorder, and hides it back in her desk. She watches Ben, as the mysterious drug flows through his body. Zarano Manor…
Nick arrives home, and finds Frodi watching TV. She looks up at him and smiles. Nick pulls her to her feet, and kisses her passionately. Then he whispers in her ear. NICK: I want to scrub your back, in the Jacuzzi. * winks* FRODI: * giggles* * lovingly strokes his arms* You seem happier now. Where did you get to? NICK: * shrugs* Just had to clear my head. Nick takes her hand, and pulls her towards their secret room. He leads her down the stairs, and then unbuttons her dress, kissing her at the same time. She lets her dress fall down, and kicks it away. Nick lifts her up, and gently lowers her into the Jacuzzi, and steps in after her. She wraps her arms around him, stretches up, and kisses him. Sein Dor Hospital, Underground Research Room…
Mary wakes up Ben, and unhooks him from the syringe. As he opens his eyes, his pupils roll back for a few seconds, before becoming normal again. Ben feels a buzz he hasn’t felt before… and he LIKES it! He’s also feeling a bit light-headed, but he puts that down to the excitement of lifting the van earlier on - the adrenaline must still be running through him.
With a wave ‘Goodbye’ to Mary, he heads back up to his lab.
|
|
|
Post by Frodo on Nov 29, 2016 13:27:05 GMT
Part 1Zarano Manor…
Two days later…
It’s the middle of the night. Frodi is woken up, by Nick thrashing around, and talking in his sleep. He’s become increasingly distant and quiet recently, and Frodi is REALLY worried about him.
She tries to shake him awake. FRODI: Nick, NICK. * shakes him* Wake up! Nick continues to thrash around.
FRODI: *shakes him harder* NICK! WAKE UP! Nick’s eyes shoot open. He looks at Frodi with bleary eyes.
FRODI: Nick, are you okay? * worried* NICK: Yeah, I’m fine. Why? FRODI: You were REALLY thrashing around in your sleep. Nick sits up and rubs his face. Frodi sits up with him.
NICK: It’s nothing. Don’t worry about it. FRODI: Nick, I *AM* worried. I’m worried about YOU! Something’s been bothering you recently. * rubs his shoulders* NICK: I SAID DON’T WORRY ABOUT IT! FRODI: You were shouting out about Stengolas, as well. * strokes his face* I hate him upsetting you so much. Nick stands up, and walks over to the window.
FRODI: I know Stengolas is still out there… somewhere. And that scares me. * shudders* But he can’t stay hidden forever. Sooner or later, they’re going to find him. NICK: * looking out the window* You don’t have to worry about Stengolas anymore. He’s not going to hurt you again. You don’t have to be scared anymore. FRODI: I’ll feel a lot better when he’s caught. But right now, I’m more concerned about you. I hate how all this is affecting you. NICK: *turns to face Frodi* He * IS* caught! FRODI: Wh… what? NICK: Stengolas is caught. I had my men track him down a couple of weeks ago. And my men aren’t gonna let him slip through their fingers, like fucking MI6 did! *pause* We have nice little chats, every so often, Stengolas and me. And I… * explain* to him, how messing with my wife, is not a good idea! Frodi climbs out of bed, walks over to him, and wraps her arms around him.
FRODI: You did that… for me? NICK: * shrugs* FRODI: * stunned* I… THANKYOU, Nick! * gets teary-eyed* *kisses him* So know Frodi knows. She finally knows what’s been bothering Nick the past couple of weeks. Stengolas! Nick had him found… for her. To protect her. Frodi looks at Nick, and is filled with so much love.
FRODI: But… how? How did you find him? NICK: I have my ways. *tucks a strand of Frodi’s hair behind her pointy ears* FRODI: Your ways are amazing! YOU are amazing! THANKYOU! * stretches up to kiss him* And I love you so much! Just knowing he’s been found…he’s not lurking out there, somewhere, plotting to come after me again… I can’t tell you what a relief that is. No-one EVER makes me feel safe, the way you do! * reaches up, and touches his face* I love you Nick!
Nick pulls her into his arms. They stand at the window, Nick’s arms embracing her, looking out at the night sky.
Sein Dor Hospital…
Several hours later, Ben arrives at the hospital for his shift. But before he heads to the lab, he makes a very special visit to the Children’s Ward. He wants to check in on the little girl he rescued from under the car. The girl, age 6 or 7, has suffered several broken bones, and MANY nasty gashes which needed stitches. But thanks to Ben, she will make a full recovery.
He walks into the little girl’s room, and sees her lying in the hospital bed, clutching her favourite teddy bear. Her mother sits with her, comforting her daughter. She looks at Ben, as he enters.
BEN: *sees the mother* Hi there. I’m Ben. MOTHER: Ben? The Ben that rescued my little girl? BEN: * blushes* Well, it wasn’t just me. There was a few of us that car off your daughter. But the mother is having none of it. She holds Ben responsible for saving her daughter… he is a hero in her eyes.
MOTHER: *sits back down next to her daughter* Look Katie, it’s Ben, the man who helped you. What do you say? KATIE: * shyly* Thankyou for helping me Mr Ben. * plays with her teddy bear* BEN: It was my pleasure, Katie. I’m glad to see you doing better. Ben checks Katie’s notes, which are at the end of her bed, and smiles, when he reads that a lot of Katie’s injuries are superficial, and not as serious as they had first thought. He sits down at the bed, opposite Katie’s mum. BEN: *points to the bear* So who’s this little guy? * smiles* KATIE: Spencer. He’s my bestest friend in the whole world. BEN: Well hello there, Spencer. *shakes Spencer’s paw* Have you been taking care of Katie for me? * puts on a deep voice, and speaks for Spencer* Yes I have. And she’s been a star patient. * goes back to his normal voice* Is that so? She hasn’t been fighting any dragons then? * uses his ‘Spencer’ voice* No she hasn’t. At least, not today. *goes back to his own voice* Well, I’m very glad to hear it. The less dragons she jumps fights, the sooner she can get out of here, and go back home. * gives a supportive wink to Katie’s mother* Katie giggles at Ben talking to Spencer. She holds the teddy bear out to Ben. KATIE: Spencer likes you. He says you’re funny. BEN: * normal voice* Why thank you Spencer. Katie’s mother smiles a ‘Thankyou’ at Ben. She’s been worried about her daughter, and is glad Ben managed to make her laugh.
Ben continues talking to them for a while, before starting his shift in the lab.
Zarano Manor…
It’s after breakfast. Eurus has gone to nursery. Vincent goes to school. Michael, Lilla, and Rosie have gone out with some friends. Lucy, Oscar, and Solan are down for a nap. Peace finally descends upon the manor. Frodi lets out a big sigh, and flops down onto the settee.
FRODI: PHEW! Peace at last! * looks at Nick* Eurus had such a tantrum at breakfast, cos she wanted CHOCOLATE milk with her cornflakes, instead of normal milk. NICK: Hehe. She’s a stubborn little minx. FRODI: … She takes after her dad. *looks at Nick, with a glint in her eye*NICK: * laughs* Oh, really? *grabs Frodi* Can * I* get some chocolate millk for breakfast then? Nick gently tweaks her breast, and some milk trickles out from her nipple. NICK: Just baby milk then? No chocolate milk? I should complain to the management. * teases* FRODI: * giggles* You better watch it, or I’ll make you eat ice cream and coffee powder, instead of chocolate milk. NICK: * pulls a face* EEEEEUUURRRGGGGGHHHH! FRODI: * lovingly touches his face* Anyway, we’ve got some time to ourselves, before the twins, and Solan wake up. NICK: *pumps the air* WOOHOO! *looks at Frodi* Come on. *gently pulls her to her feet* FRODI: * smiles* Where are we going? NICK: You’ll see. I want some fun with my wife! Nick guides her upstairs, and into the bathroom. He kisses her, and guides her backwards towards the bath. NICK: * whispers in her ear, while still kissing her* How about a nice shower? FRODI: * giggles, and clasps his hands, while kissing him* Hmmm! It feels like forever, since we last had a shower together. Frodi steps into the bath. Nick turns on the shower, and climbs in after her. The hot water from the shower reigns down on them, soaking them both. Nick holds her against the wall, as they kiss passionately. FRODI: *whispers in his ear* Make love to me? Nick grins. He grabs her top, and pulls it up over her head. She reaches down for his trousers, and slowly unbuttons them, letting them fall to the floor. Nick shakes his head… his wet hair glistening under the shower. Frodi reaches up, and strokes his hair. She kisses him passionately, feeling his bare wet skin against hers. She slides her hands down his wet arms, until she reaches his hands… and she clasps them tightly. Nick presses her against the wall, and enters her… and the magic begins. Sein Dor Hospital…
Ben has been summoned to the underground research room, for a session with Mary. This time, it’s a group session, so the other men are there as well. Mary is still singing Ben’s praises for rescuing the little girl… but at the same time, she is taking credit for Ben having the physical strength to lift the car off the girl.
The men chat to each other, as Mary straps them into their chairs and inserts the drip into them. Then they close their eyes as the strange serum enters their bodies, making them ‘go under’.
Mary looks at them carefully, making sure they are ALL under. Then she stands in front of Ben. MARY: Ben, can you hear me? Ben doesn’t respond. He’s too deeply under, like the rest of the men.
MARY: Ben? Ben still doesn’t respond. Mary smiles. She takes a large syringe from her pocket, and looks at it. The syringe is full of the strange serum that the men are already receiving through the drip. MARY: Sorry Ben. I hate to do this to you, but I don’t have a choice. You have shown REMARKABLE progress already. And I need results! Soon! I need to know how much of this you can take. Mary pulls the cap off the syringe, and slowly injects it into his neck. But Ben is so deeply under, he doesn’t even feel it. Then she wipes the syringe, and puts it back into her pocket.
Mary walks over to her desk, and pulls out her tape recorder. She glances back over at Ben strapped in his chair, smiles, and hits ‘Record’ on the tape recorder. Mary turns her tape recorder off, and puts in back into her desk, and locks the drawer. Wyndemere Island…
Lorenzo is walking through the gardens, looking for The Woman. As he passes the hedge maze, he hears something. Voices… stifled, whispering. It sounds like two women. He moves closer to the maze entrance… and what he sees, shocks him deeply. The Woman…HIS Woman… the woman he has fallen for… with another woman. And they’re kissing! Lorenzo can’t believe it.
THE WOMAN: * giggles* I’m really glad you’re here. OTHER, STRANGE WOMAN: Me too! *kisses her* Lorenzo backs up in shock, and hides behind the hedge, while still listening to them. THE WOMAN: Lorenzo won’t find us here. OTHER, STRANGE WOMAN: Good. Cos I want you all to myself. I don’t want to share you with Mr Italian Stallion. *kisses her* THE WOMAN: * giggles* ‘Mr Italian Stallion’. I like it! OTHER, STRANGE WOMAN: Come on, I want to show you something. THE WOMAN: What? OTHER, STRANGE WOMAN: You’ll see. Footsteps are heard, as the 2 women head deeper into the maze. Lorenzo stands there… a tear trickling down his cheek. How could she do that to him? He feels like she’s stabbed him in the heart.
Sein Dor Hospital…
Ben’s session with Mary is over, and he’s back in his lab. He feels… odd. Uptight. Not himself. He paces his lab, feeling like he could burst out of his own skin. He has no idea Mary gave him that extra dose of serum through a syringe. He looks at the door, and wants to punch a hole in it. But why? He’s not an aggressive man… so why does he want to smash up the storage cabinets? As a lab technician, he has to keep the contents of the storage containers, and the whole lab, for that matter, safe.
He picks up a rack of test tubes containing some blood samples, and goes to put them in the fridge. But he starts feeling dizzy. Very dizzy. His hand begins to shake violently, and the whole room is spinning. He puts his hand to his head, to try and steady himself. BEN: Uggghhhhh…. What’s wrong with me? He leans his hand on the desk for a moment. Then his eyes roll back into his head… and he collapses to the floor.
Sein Dor School…
Vincent and Jazzy are getting ready for P.E. Vincent starts frantically searching through his schoolbag, with a look of panic spreading across his face. JAZZY: What’s wrong Vincent? VINCENT: *looks up* I can’t find my gym shoes for P.E. JAZZY: Maybe you left them at home? VINCENT: * shakes his head* No, I’m SURE I had them with me this morning. I remember, cos Eurus was trying to walk in them, and they’re much too big for her. It was hilarious. * chuckles* And I remember her not wanting to give them back. JAZZY: Maybe she’s still got your gym shoes? VINCENT: No, I definitely remember putting them in my bag, so Eurus couldn’t get them again. * searches through his bag again* So WHERE ARE THEY??? Mr Felix is gonna go NUTS at me! JAZZY: * sits down next to him* Poor Vincent. Maybe he’ll be in a good mood today, and you’ll just have to sit out of P.E. today. VINCENT: I hope that’s all he does. He better not give me Lines, or Detention. Vincent braces himself, as he goes to tell Mr Felix, the P.E. teacher, that he can’t find his gym shoes. Meanwhile, Jazzy makes sure her back is firmly closed. Then she hides it under her normal school clothes, as she heads into the gym hall.
Sein Dor Hospital…
Mid-afternoon, Ben hasn’t shown up for his ‘date’ with Trina for their afternoon break. Trina is surprised - they’ve been getting on so well recently. But he must just be busy in his lab, and lost track of time. She’ll go and surprise him.
Trina arrives at Ben’s lab, and knocks on the door. No reply. She knocks harder, and tries the handle. She’s surprised to find the door unlocked. Ben NEVER leaves his lab unlocked when he’s not there. She pushes the lab door open slowly. TRINA: *calls out* Ben? Ben? Are you here? You were supposed to meet me for afternoon break. Silence! No cheery Ben’s Irish voice. She sighs, and walks over to the lab table, planning to leave a note for him. Maybe he wants to do something after work today.
But as she approaches the table… she sees an arm sticking out from behind the table. She walks round to the back of the table, and sees…
TRINA: BEN!!! Ben is collapsed on the floor. Some broken glass (the rack of test tubes) nearby. Trina is on the floor next to him, in an instant. What’s happened to him? She checks his pulse - he’s still breathing. TRINA: * worried* Ben, can you hear me? It’s Trina. No response.
Trina manages to turn him over, and put him in the Recovery Position. She puts her finger into the palm of his hand. TRINA: Ben, can you squeeze my finger? Come on Ben, just squeeze my finger. Just one little squeeze. Please? But Ben is still unresponsive. Trina jumps up and rushes to the Emergency Phone to call for help. Then she’s back down on the floor with Ben again. TRINA: I’ve called for help Ben. Don’t worry. Trina continues talking to him, hoping that he can hear her, even if he can’t respond. Zarano Manor…
Frodi & Nick are lounging on the settee. She has her feet across his lap, and he’s giving her a foot massage. She glances up at the clock on the wall. FRODI: Damn! Look at the time, Nick. Nick looks at the clock. FRODI: Eurus’s nursery finishes soon. Much as I LOVE your footrub, I need to go and pick her up. NICK: Damn! When are kids gonna come equipped with self-teleportation, so she can come home herself? FRODI: * giggles* A lovely idea! *takes Nick’s hand* Rain-check on the foot rub? Nick nods. Frodi reluctantly stands up, then leans down to kiss Nick. She blows another kiss to him from the door. FRODI: Be back soon. Sein Dor Hospital…
Ben lies in a hospital bed, with a concerned Trina sitting next to him. He’s come round now, but doesn’t know what happened. He looks around the room, still feeling a bit hazy. But at least that feeling of rage has passed - he doesn’t want to punch a hole in the door, or smash up the storage cabinets anymore.
He looks down at his arm, as he feels something - it’s a cuff inflating on his arm, to check his blood pressure. He's also attached to a heart monitor, and has a drip in his arm. Thankfully, Mary has nothing to do with this drip. BEN: * looks at Trina* What happened? TRINA: You don’t remember? * takes his hand* BEN: * shakes his head* I remember… walking into my lab, and feeling dizzy, and then… nothing. Waking up here, just now. TRINA: I‘m not surprised you felt dizzy! * pause* I came to your lab, and found you unconscious on the floor. I couldn’t wake you up, so I called for help. BEN: Sorry. Thanks for finding me. *smiles at her, and squeezes her hand* TRINA: How do you feel now? BEN: * thinks for a moment* I feel fine. Great. Although it’s weird being in a patient bed. TRINA: Well… you ARE a patient now. Ben laughs, sits up, and tries to pull the drip out. TRINA: * puts her hand on his arm, to stop him* What are you doing? BEN: I feel fine now. Can’t stay lying around here all day - I should get back to the lab. Trina bites her lip, and looks down at the ground.
Ben sees the worry in her face, and tries to re-assure her. BEN: I’m okay now Trina. I don’t feel dizzy anymore. And this bed could be used for someone who REALLY needs it. * smiles* TRINA: YOU need it, Ben! You scared the hell out of me, Ben Brogan! Seeing you lying unconscious on the floor… * trails off* BEN: Hey, I’m okay Trina. I’m okay. * smiles* I’m fine now. TRINA: You are NOT fine! Your heart-rate and blood pressure are… through the roof! And I mean… through the roof! Your heart rate is 255BM! Never heard of ANYONE having a heart rate that high! It's a miracle you haven’t had a heart attack! *pushes him back down onto the bed* That drip is giving you medicine to slow down your heart rate. But you need to rest, and let the doctors figure out what’s wrong. * touches his chest* BEN: But what about my lab? I’m responsible for what goes on in that lab. TRINA: And I’m responsible for my patient’s well-being. Anyway, I’m sure John can cope with your lab. I’ll tell him what’s happened. * pause* Please Ben, this is serious. You need to take care of yourself. Don’t make yourself even more sick. BEN: * pause* I guess I have been feeling kinda tired recently. I’m probably just pushing myself too much in the lab. *lays back in the bed* Okay, I’ll be a good patient. I have it on good authority, that the nurses here are second to none ! *looks at Trina* TRINA: Hehe. They say doctors make the worst patients… lets hope the same doesn’t apply to lab technicians. BEN: I’ll be good as gold. And sorry for scaring you. TRINA: Well, I’ll forgive you… as long as you stay in bed, and let the doctors figure out how this happened. And DON’T pull out your drip! Trina looks at Ben. She’s still worried about him. She’s never known anyone to have a heart rate as high as his. She’s hopes the doctors can figure it out soon. BEN: I almost forgot… did you see the man that was brought in yesterday? * pause* He swallowed a five pound note.. They’re keeping him in for observation on his condition - but so far there has been no change! A smile plays on Trina’s lips. TRINA: Are you gonna bombard me with corny jokes, until you’re better? BEN: Well who else am I going to tell my jokes to? Trina smiles, and kisses him. TRINA: I’m really glad you’re awake again, Ben. You better not scare me like that again! I‘m sure John will want to see you - the pair of you are as thick as thieves. I‘ll go and find him, and tell him you‘re here. I’ll be back later - save up your jokes for then. And STAY IN THAT BED! Feeling re-assured that Ben is going to rest, she leaves to find John. To Be Continued...
|
|
|
Post by Frodo on Jan 29, 2017 18:57:57 GMT
Part 2...
The next day…
Wyndemere Island…
Lorenzo sits in his room, mulling over what he saw yesterday. HIS woman… kissing another woman! How could she betray him like that? How could she just stomp all over his heart, as though he was nothing? He can hardly believe it.
He picks up one of his drawings of her. The first drawing he did of her. He sketches his finger over it, feeling like a knife has twisted in his heart. Then… he screws it up in a fit of anger, and tosses it in the bin. LORENZO: Who needs her, anyway? Two-faced, two-timing little bitch! KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK Someone knocks at his door. Lorenzo sits down on his bed, and looks at the door, thinking it to be Myca or Sebastion.
LORENZO: Come in. The door opens, and… The Woman enters. THE WOMAN: So THERE you are! * smiles, and sits next to him on the bed* I missed you yesterday. I waited for you at our usual spot next to the fountain, but you weren’t there. Lorenzo says nothing. He looks at her, then looks away again.
THE WOMAN: At least you’re here now. Why don’t we go for a walk? It’s a lovely day outside. LORENZO: * grumpy* Maybe I don’t want to! * shrugs her off* THE WOMAN: Oooh, what’s got you all grumpy today? Lorenzo pauses, and then looks at her.
LORENZO: I SAW you… yesterday! THE WOMAN: You did? * smiles* Really? I waited for ages for you, but didn’t see you. Why didn’t you say anything to me? I really missed you yesterday. Lorenzo stands up, and walks over to the window. LORENZO: I saw you… at the garden maze. THE WOMAN: * puzzled* I wasn’t at the maze yesterday. I waited for you at the fountain, as always. * pauses* Although it WOULD be nice to get lost in the maze… just you and me. * laughs* LORENZO: DON’T lie to me! I saw you with HER! That… woman! THE WOMAN: What woman? Myca? LORENZO: And now you’re playing games with me? You really think I’m that stupid? * angry* THE WOMAN: No Lorenzo, you are definitely not stupid. What woman? LORENZO: WHAT WOMAN??? Long dark hair, big eyes, and oh yes! She had her lips ALL OVER YOU! I SAW you kissing her! And my eyes don’t deceive me! THE WOMAN: * hurt* I seriously don’t know what you’re talking about, Lorenzo. But think about it! Why would I be with some woman at the garden maze, when I’m on my way to a date at the fountain with this really hunky guy I’ve fallen for? LORENZO: … THE WOMAN: You’re the only one that knows I’m here. Do you really think I would risk someone else seeing me, and risk them turning on me? C’mon Lorenzo! Lorenzo mulls this over for a while. She’s right - she hiding out here for a reason. She’s terrified of something. She’s terrified of people seeing her. She’s still too afraid to even tell him her name. There‘s no way she could meet up with some woman, and risk getting caught.
LORENZO: I find your logic infuriating. * looks at her, and gives a half-smile* THE WOMAN: There’s that sexy shy-boy smile! * leans in and kisses him* LORENZO: But… who did I see at the maze, then? THE WOMAN: * thinks* Maybe it was Myca & Sebastion that you saw? Or maybe it was a dream you had? You artists have weird imaginations, after all. * laughs* Lorenzo smiles. She called him an ‘artist’. And he kinda likes it. He looks at her. Maybe it WAS Myca & Sebastion he saw at the maze. It was sunny, after all, and the light could have been playing tricks on him. LORENZO: * smiles* I’m just a grumpy old fool. Don’t pay any attention to me. * takes her hands, and kisses her* THE WOMAN: And there’s that smile that I can’t resist! * kisses him back* So will you come for a walk with me now? You OWE me… after standing me up yesterday. LORENZO: Acccckkkkk, I REALLY wish I could! But Myca & Sebastion are expecting me. I haven’t really spent much time with them recently, and I can’t keep playing the ‘I’m busy drawing’ card, without actually showing them what I’ve been drawing. Mainly, you. THE WOMAN: * nods* Okay. Will I see you this afternoon, then? LORENZO: * nods* At the fountain. It’s a date! * smiles* THE WOMAN: * walks over to the bedroom door* Don’t let on to Myca & Sebastion, you saw them at the garden maze. They might want to know what you were doing there… and you CAN’T tell them about me. Lorenzo does a zip action across his lips, as though he is zipping his lips shut. LORENZO: My lips are sealed. * smiles* They kiss each other ‘Goodbye’. The Woman slowly opens the door, and peeks outside to make sure the coast is clear. Then she runs off.
Lorenzo looks over at his bin. He pulls the drawing back out - the one he had tossed earlier. He un-scrunches it, and flattens it out again.
LORENZO: * to the drawing* I’m sorry baby. I knew you wouldn’t really betray me like that. You don’t have a cheating heart. Zarano Manor…
Frodi sits on the settee, breastfeeding Solan. Lucy and Oscar are in their bouncy chairs, just taking the world in. There’s no nursery today, so Eurus is at home, as well. She runs into the living room, and looks at Frodi and Solan. EURUS: Mummy, will you play with me? FRODI: * smiles* I’m sorry Sweety, I can’t right now, I’m feeding Solan. EURUS: But Solan can play with us too? FRODI: He’s a hungry baby. He needs his food. Eurus lets out a big sigh. It’s hard for a little girl, when mummy is busy with 3 younger babies that also demand attention.
Frodi looks at her, feeling bad. FRODI: Why don’t we sing a song? Your little brothers and sister would like that. EURUS: What song can we sing, mummy? FRODI: * thinks for a moment* I know just the song. And I want you to join in with me, Eurus. Ready? Frodi shuffles Solan, so she can hold him with one hand as he feeds, leaving her other hand free. Solan lets out a small cry of protest at being shoogled, then settles back down to feeding from Frodi. He sucks hungrily on her breast, his little hands clenched in concentration. FRODI: * sings slowly, giving Eurus a chance to join in* Heads * touches her head* Shoulders * touches her shoulders* A big grin spreads across Eurus’s face, and she joins in the song. This is a fun song, with lots of actions. Frodi encourages Eurus to touch the correct body parts, as they sing. FRODI AND EURUS: *sing together* Knees and toes. * touches the knees and the toes* Heads, shoulders knees and toes. Knees and tooooeeeeeessss. And eyes, and ears, and mouth and nose. Head, shoulders… EURUS: * continuing the song correctly* Knees and toes! FRODI: *adds different words* Beans on toast. Beans on toast. Eurus giggles, at hearing those words in the song.
FRODI: Something funny, Sweety? *tries to keep a straight face* EURUS: * still giggling* You said… ‘Beans on toast’. Heeheehee. It’s ‘Knees And Toes.’ FRODI: It is? Are you sure it’s not ‘Beans on toast’? I think it should be ‘Beans on toast’. EURUS: Heeeeeeehheeeeeeeeee. It’s ‘Knees and toes’, mummy! *hops up and down on one foot* FRODI: Ahh, right. Glad you’re keeping me straight. So… where are my knees and toes? Eurus giggles, as she points to her knees and then her toes. FRODI: Oh, fantastic. Thankyou Sweety. Frodi beckens her daughter over, and kisses her forehead.
Sein Dor Hospital…
Trina’s been working hard all morning. Finally, it’s time for her break… she’s makes her way to Ben’s hospital room. She’s been worrying about him since yesterday. As she pushes open the door to his room, she’s somewhat relieved to find him still in the hospital bed, and still with the heart monitor attached, the blood pressure cuff on, and the drip giving him medication to slow down his heart-rate. Knowing how he likes to keep busy, she was afraid he might have tried to return to his lab already.
He looks up at her, and smiles.
BEN: Trina! Great to see you! TRINA: * leans in, and kisses him* Urgh, I’ve been counting down the minutes, until my break. Been really worried about you. How are you feeling? * sits down next to his bed* BEN: Much better. And told you I would stay in bed here. I’ve been a good boy. * grins* TRINA: GOOD! You’re not to get out of that bed, until I see written permission from… * thinks* at least 3 different doctors, saying you’re okay! BEN: * takes her hand* Don’t worry about me. I’ll be tap-dancing again in no time. * pause* Which is a miracle, really, seeing as I couldn’t tap-dance before. * looks at Trina with a twinkle in his eye* TRINA: Oh, YOU! *playfully slaps his arm* At least you still have that crazy sense of humour. BEN: Yeah, well I kinda feel like a fraud, lying here, doing nothing all day, with this heart monitor that could go to someone who REALY needs it, and this IV sticking in me. * pauses* On the other hand, I think I could get used to being waited on hand and foot like this. * chuckles* TRINA: Well, you’re gonna get spoiled rotten for a long time, Ben Brogan. So get used to it quickly! * squeezes his hand* Have the doctors found what’s causing your high heart rate yet? BEN: No, not yet. But they’re keeping a close eye on me. And the IV drip is helping a lot. My heart-rate is already lower… look. Ben points to a readout on the heart monitor screen - sure enough, it IS lower… but still much higher than it should be. Trina is still worried sick. What is causing this? What is making Ben so sick? She looks down at the ground, unable to hide the fear in her face. Ben reaches out, and strokes her arm. BEN: Hey, look at me. Trina looks at Ben. BEN: I’m going to be okay, Trina. I promise you. The doctors here are the best - they won’t let anything happen to me. TRINA: I hope so Ben. I just can’t get that image out of my head, of you lying on floor in your lab… completely unconscious. And deathly pale. * pauses* Oh, I’m sorry Ben, I’m supposed to be cheering you up, not acting like a mother hen. BEN: Having you here DOES cheer me up. TRINA: * tries to be positive* It’s a good thing I’m a nurse at this hospital. I can make sure you eat up all of the delicious meals they give to patients. * sticks her tongue out* Ben rolls his eyes, laughs, then points at her. BEN: Just for that comment, you OWE me some of your special Welsh lemon meringue pie. When I get out of here, I’ll expect a big slice of it waiting for me! Deal? TRINA: * laughs* Deal! Trina sits on the edge of the bed, takes Ben’s hand, and gently kisses his lips. He’s being so brave about this, when he doesn’t even know the cause of his high heart rate.
Just then, the door opens again. Ben & Trina jump apart, and look towards towards the door. Mary Walsh walks in. BEN: Mary? This is a surprise. MARY: Hello Ben, I… Mary sees Trina, and gives her an icy-cold stare. Then she turns her attention back to Ben. MARY: I heard you weren’t feeling well, Ben. So I came to visit you. BEN: * smiles* That’s good of you Mary, thank you. They’re taking good care of me, though. And Trina here, is a nurse, so she can make sure all these monitors are stuff are working okay. MARY: Is that so? *looks at Trina, and raises her eyebrow* BEN: Sorry, let me introduce you… Mary, this is Trina, my girlfriend. *takes Trina’s hand again* She’s the one that found me in the lab. Ma ry stiffens, as Ben uses the world ‘girlfriend’. She doesn’t take her cold eyes off Trina for a moment. BEN: * continues* Trina, this is Mary. She’s… MARY: * interupts* I’m his MOTHER! * lies* TRINA: It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mrs Brogan. And I’m glad Ben has someone else to worry about him. MARY: Indeed. * rolls her eyes* TRINA: *is un-nerved by Mary* Um, yes. His heart rate is incredibly high. He gave me such a scare, when I found him unconscious in his lab. MARY: … There’s something about Mary’s icy stare that makes Trina feel very uncomfortable. But still… she’s Ben’s mother. And she’s no-doubt worried about Ben. TRINA: So the, uh… the heart monitor * touches the monitor pad on Ben’s chest* is cos his heart rate is too high. And the IV drip *indicates the drip* is giving him medication to help lower his heart rate. * looks at Ben* The doctors are trying to figure out what’s causing it. * looks at Mary* But don’t worry Mrs Brogan. Sein Dor Hospital has the best doctors, and we’ll soon have Ben well again. MARY: I see. BEN: * to Mary* Trina’s been great. She’s taking really good care of me. MARY: I expect nothing less. TRINA: Well… l’ll give you both some privacy. MARY: * gives Trina another icy-cold stare* Yes! I expect you have work to be getting on with, anyway? TRINA: * nods* Yes, and my break is nearly over. * turns to Ben* You be good, and stay in that bed, okay? *squeezes his hand* Ben nods, and smiles at her. TRINA: * looks at Mary* Bye Mrs Brogan. It was lovely to meet you. Trina smiles politely, and leaves the room. She had wanted to stay longer with Ben, but she realises his mother will want some time with him as well.
Back inside Ben’s room, Ben looks at Mary. Now Trina’s out the way, Mary can focus on Ben. BEN: You’re my MOTHER??? Why did you say that to her? You’re not my mother. MARY: Oh, I’m sorry Ben. I panicked, and said the first thing that came into my head. Besides, I * DO* think of you as a son. Don’t be cross with me? BEN: * smiles* Don’t worry, I’m not cross with you. I actually think it’s kinda nice. My own mother died when I was very young, as you know. I was raised by my dad, who disowned me when I left Ireland to pursue my dream of working in the medical profession. So it’s kinda nice to feel like I belong to somebody. MARY: * smiles* Glad to hear that, Ben. * pause* So… you’re heart-rate is slightly high? Mary deliberately down-plays the seriousness of Ben’s condition. BEN: * nods* Yeah, I remember feeling so dizzy in the lab, then I must have passed out. I’m glad Trina found me. She’s been so great. MARY: She ORDERS you to stay in this bed, and you just accept it? BEN: She’s just worried about me. Mary frowns, but Ben doesn’t notice. MARY: And what’s all this nonsense about medication, and heart monitors? * flicks the IV drip going into Ben’s arm* BEN: The IV? It’s medication to lower my heart rate. I didn’t want to say anything to Trina, but it’s kinda scary, when you think about it. WHAT made me so dizzy? And why did I faint? MARY: You were probably just tired. I’ve thought you looked tired the last couple of days - have you been getting much sleep recently? BEN: Not really. Dunno what it is, but whenever I go to bed, I just end up tossing and turning for hours. MARY: Well, that’s it then. You just need some sleep. You don’t need all this mumbo-jumbo they’re giving you. You’re BETTER than this, Ben! So come on * claps her hands twice* Time to get up now. BEN: I dunno Mary. My heart rate IS still too high. And I promised Trina I would follow doctor’s orders. MARY: Nonsense! There’s nothing wrong with you. This Trina doesn’t know you very well, if she thinks you like being confined to a bed all day. Besides, I bet you’re eager to get back to your lab, aren’t you? Ben hesitates. He DOES want to get back to his lab - he hates the thought of anyone else being in there, messing with all his stuff. But at the same time, But at the same time, being able to relax in this bed was nice. And seeing how high his heart rate was, had really scared him. He should let the doctors treat him, and bring his heart rate back down to normal levels… maybe then he won’t feel so strange.
But the decision seems to be out of his hands. Mary sharply pulls his IV drip out of his arm. And although he isn’t sure about this, he doesn’t question her. She is his mentor, after all. BEN: OW! * looks at Mary* MARY: This concoction is doing you more harm than good, Ben. You won’t feel better, until you’re out of this bed. Trust me on this. * smiles* Mary proceeds to remove the heart monitor from Ben’s chest… which triggers an alarm back at the nurses station. Trina’s doing her rounds, so she has no idea what’s going on. But another nurse quickly bursts into the room, just as Mary is helping Ben to his feet. NURSE: * looks at Mary and Ben* WHAT IS GOING ON HERE! MARY: * glances at the nurse* Ben is discharging himself. NURSE: *looks at Ben* Mr Brogan, I really don’t recommend this. You’re heart rate reading are still much too high. MARY: Nonsense! He’s feeling much better, aren’t you Ben? Ben nods. NURSE: Mr Brogan… until we get your heart rate under control, you are at SERIOUS risk of a heart attack. I can’t stress this enough! Now get back in bed, and I’ll set your heart monitor up again. BEN: *to the nurse* I’m fine now, really. Don’t worry. Mary ignores the nurse. She looks in a small cabinet in the room, and finds Ben’s clothes. MARY: Here’s your clothes, Ben. Hurry up and get dressed. I’ll wait outside for you. NURSE: Sir, I really must recommend against you discharging yourself. MARY: Why don’t you be a good nurse, and get his discharge papers? Mary ushers the nurse out of the room. And since Ben doesn’t object, the nurse has no choice but to prepare his discharge papers. Zarano Manor…
Eurus is playing with her dolls in the living room, Solan is down for a nap, and Lucy and Oscar are happily playing in their playpen. Frodi & Nick are relaxing on the settee, with Frodi’s head leaning on Nick’s shoulder. She squints her head round to kiss him.
Frodi looks at Nick, and speaks quietly, so Eurus won’t hear. FRODI: Nick… have you checked on… * spells out the name* S…t…e…n…g…o…l…a…s today? * clasps his hand* NICK: * looks at her, and plays with her hair* Yep. He’s not going anywhere, don’t worry. He won’t ever hurt you again. FRODI: It’s such a relief, knowing he’s caught, and he’s not lurking out there. But you… promise me you won’t take such risks again! It’s not that long ago you were released from house arrest, and I couldn’t bare it if they took you away from me again. *touches his face* NICK: If MI6 weren’t such a bunch of useless assholes, I wouldn’t need to do their job for them. They won’t touch me - they’re probably too embarrassed at letting Stengolas escape. FRODI: *looks at him* God, I love you Nick Zarano! I love you SO much! * strokes his cheek, and kisses him tenderly* Sein Dor Hospital…
With Ben discharged, Mary leads him through the corridors, and towards the storage room that hides the lift down to the secret research room. BEN: Um… my lab is this way. * points in the other direction* MARY: Yes I know, but you need a session first. That will put the spring back in your step. * smiles* Ben nods. He enjoys his special sessions with Mary.
In the secret research room, Ben sits in his usual chair, and Mary restrains him, and hooks him up to the strange machine. MARY: This will make you feel better, Ben. * smiles* And don’t worry, I’ll get to work on something that will stop you having any more dizzy spells. BEN: Thanks Mary. It’s good to have someone looking out for me. MARY: Don’t mention it. Now… close your eyes. Ben closes his eyes. Mary inserts the needle into him, and he flinches as the strange liquid enters his system. This isn’t the same medication he was getting from the doctor… this is Mary’s special drug. She has a strange look on her face, as she sets the controls on the device - she’s giving Ben an even higher dose than previously. And as before, she takes a syringe from her pockets, and injects an extra dose of serum into Ben’s neck.
She makes sure Ben is completely ‘under’, then walks over to her desk, and sits down. She pulls her tape recorder out of the desk drawer, and turns it on. MARY: * into the tape recorder* This is Mary Walsh, with an update. I’ve come across a little setback. Ben Brogan - my most promising subject, whom I’ve been giving extra doses to, has been responding so well to the serum. Until now! Yesterday, he had a dizzy spell, and collapsed. I can’t tell you how disappointing this turn of events is! It seems, also, Ben has been keeping secrets from me! He has a girlfriend! A girlfriend, of all things! It was HER that found Ben, and sought him official medical treatment. Those imbeciles discovered his high heart rate, and took measures to lower it! And his stupid girlfriend encouraged him to remain under doctor’s care and continue medical treatment, and get more tests to discover the cause of his high heart rate! DAMN! DAMN AND BLAST! This REALLY throws a spanner in the works! Thank god I managed to persuade him to discharge himself before those nosey doctors found out too much. I CANNOT allow her interference to jeopardise my experiments. I CANNOT let this setback ruin EVERYTHING I’ve worked so hard for! But Ben seems quite taken with her. Why, I have no idea. But her influence over Ben must end! * pauses* If I don’t handle this VERY carefully, she could wreck everything! She has to go! Mary out! Mary turns her tape recorder off, and tosses it back in the drawer. She rubs her forehead, deep in thought.
It’s clear now, Mary does not have Ben’s best interests at heart.
|
|