The following is not a novelization or an actual script but a dry transcript of the aired episode that includes accurate word-to-word dialogues, settings descriptions, action scenes and/or camera movements where the transcriber felt they were necessary. This transcript is posted on "TWIZ TV.COM" in world wide web exclusivity by courtesy of MM.
"LOVEJOY" and other related entities are owned, (TM) and © by McSHANE PRODUCTIONS and WITZEND/TAMARISKA PRODUCTIONS in association with BBC. This transcript is posted here without their permission, approval, authorization or endorsement. Any reproduction, duplication, distribution or display of this material in any form or by any means is expressly prohibited. It is absolutely forbidden to use it for commercial gain. The transcriber does not own the characters in the story. For entertainment and educational purposes only. No infringement intended.

TRANSCRIBER'S MESSAGE: "Not mine, never was. These transcripts made without the help of closed captioning. If you see any mistakes please let me know. If you quote these anywhere, give credit where credit's due. To original writers, the transcriber and the site you got these from".
==========================
TRANSCRIPT:
==========================

Scene:  Martial Arts School- Main Classroom

(Tom and the class are standing around in a circle, observing what's going on in the center of the room.  Three unnamed students are positioned around Bryan, all of them have wooden fighting poles.  They fight and eventually Bryan overcomes them.  The class claps politely while Bryan brings his hands together and bows to Tom)

Tom:  Very nice.

(More applause follows)

Scene:  Martial Arts School- Weight Room

(Tory is there lifting weighs and a second after the scene begins, Trip joins her)

Trip:  Hey.

Tory:  Hey.

Trip:  You like The White Stripes?

Tory:  The band? 

Trip:  Yeah.

Tory:  Yeah, they're good. 

Trip:  Well. They're playing the Filamore and I got two tickets.  I was wondering if you wanted to go with me?

Tory:  Go with you?  Like on a date?

Trip:  Yeah.  A date.

(Tory gets up to put her weights back)

Tory:  Uh, I don't know. 

(Tory starts to leave)

Trip:  Oh.  Alright.

(At the disappointment in Trip's voice, Tory turns back.)

Tory:  Look Trip, you're great.  It's just I kinda made this rule not to date anybody in the school.  It's not you, it's just martial arts is the one thing in my life that keeps me sane and I don't want anything to mess that up.

(Trip nods like he understands, but he still sounds a little hurt.)

Trip:  Alright. 

Tory:  Hey, it's not you.  Okay, I really like you.  (Trip starts to smile.)  You understand, right?

Trip:  Yeah.  Totally.

Tory:  Good, I'll see you later.

Trip:  I'll see ya.

Scene:  Martial Arts School- Parking Lot

(A woman drives up in a nice car and a guy we later learn is Nick gets out.)

Nick:  Thanks for the ride.

(The driver drives off and Nick starts to look around.  He almost immediately sees Tory's bike parked there and hops on, getting the feel of it.  Meanwhile, Tory exits the building with her helmet in hand.  She's definitely annoyed to him on her bike.)

Tory:  Hey, what are you doing?

Nick:  This is yours?

Tory:  Yeah, it's mine.  Get off.

(Nick sits back, but doesn't get off.)

Nick:  (Patronizingly)  This is a pretty big bike.  How long have you been riding?

Tory:  You have a hearing problem?

Nick:  (Patronizingly)  I bet you look real cool riding it.

(Tory drops her bag and takes a step closer to Nick.  She's getting angrier.)

Tory:  You have three seconds.

Nick:  Or what?  You're gonna tell me you know martial arts?

Tory:  I'm assuming I don't have to.  Unless you can't read, either.  (She looks pointedly at the design on the window that plainly says 'Martial Arts')

Nick:  Oh come on, won't you give me a ride?

(Trip comes out of building and starts coming over to them.  Nick sees him but Tory doesn't.)

Tory:  You think I'm kidding?

Trip:  Is there a problem?

(Nick laughs)

Nick:  Who's this?  Your kid brother? 

(Nick is clearly not impressed and becomes even more patronizing.)

Nick:  (Whispers)  Hi.

Trip:  You better get off that bike, man.

(Nick's not impressed and starts to lean over and grip the handlebars again.  Tom exits the building as well now.)

Tom:  Hey Nick! 

Nick:  That's me.

Tom:  Come on in here. 

(Nick finally gets off the bike and addresses Tory.)

Nick:  It was nice talking to you.

(Nick looks at Trip as he walks past, but doesn't say anything to him.)

Tory:  Who's he?

Tom:  He's a new student.

[Opening Credits]

 

Scene:  Martial Arts School- Tom's Office

 

(Tom, Nick and the woman driving the car from before are all there.)

Tom:  You made inspector already, that's great Dana.

Dana:  Mmm Hmm.  Was there ever a doubt?  Alright, you can take some of the credit.  (To Nick)  Tom was my training officer when I started on the force.  God, it seems like a lifetime ago. 

(Dana and Nick take seats in front of Tom's desk while Tom sits across from them.)

Tom:  It was.  (To Nick)  So your aunt has told me you've uh, had some martial arts training. 

Nick:  Yes, si fu (Sorry about this, I don't know the correct spelling). 

Tom:  What disciplines?

Nick: Gung Fu, Karate, Tae Kwon Do, WooShoo, Svette, uh let's see, Jee Kun Do.

Tom:  Why so many different styles?

Nick:  I move a lot.

Dana:  His father, my brother-in-law is a diplomat.  He and my sister just got posted to Cairo.  So Nick came to live with me because we all thought it would be better for him, at least until he finishes high school.

Nick:  More like if. 

(His aunt gives him a look like she's tired of this conversation.  By Nick's reaction, so is he.)

Nick:  What?  What's the big secret?  It's not like you're not going to talk to him about it, anyway.  Might as well put it all out in the open, right?

Tom:  Well, you're aunt has already told me about what happened in Germany and Singapore.

Nick:  Yeah, I wasn't to smart back then.  Anyway, Dana thought maybe I could train with you.

Tom:  You need to tell me why you're here.

Nick:  To learn.  Whatever style you teach.

Tom:  Then you need to decide right now if you can follow my rules because I don't make exceptions.  The rules are the same, whether you study here for one day or one year.  You wanna be here?  You follow the rules.  To the letter.

Nick:  Yes, Si fu.

Tom:  Great.  Then welcome.

Martial Arts School- Main Practice Room

 

(The students are standing around the center of the room listening to Tom.)

Tom:  Alright, I'd like to welcome Nick Reed to class.  Uh, Nick's had some martial arts training and uh, he's not too familiar with our style so I'm sure you'll all help him out if he needs it.  Okay, let's break up.  Two man forms.  Bryan, will you show Nick the forms we've been working on?  Okay, let's begin. 

Bryan:  Okay.

(They start loosening up and face off with each other)

Bryan:  Hey, how long you been studying?

Nick:  Since I was eight.  How 'bout you?

Bryan:  Nine.  I was one of those little kids with the karate belts, you know?

Nick:  Cool.  What do you say we open it up a bit? 

(It's obvious Nick is ready to let loose.  Bryan is hesitant.)

Bryan:  Well Mr. C says you gotta crawl before you walk, man.

Nick:  Come on, just for fun.  Come on. 

(Nick taps Bryan on the cheek, which angers him.)

Nick:  Come on.

Bryan:  Alright. 

Nick:  Ready?

(Nick immediately starts throwing punches and kicks towards Bryan, who blocks or ducks them.  Nick does a leg sweep and knocks Bryan off his feet, but he stays in control of his fall and knocks Nick's feet out from under him, causing him to land on his back.  Tom sees what they're doing and comes over, angry.)

Tom:  Whoa!  What's going on here guys?  Did I say anything about sparring?

Nick:  My bad. 

Tom:  You know better than that, Bryan.  (Addresses the whole class.)  Look, anger is a heavy weight to be carrying around, guys.  So is resentment. . .and revenge.  The more weight we carry, the harder it is to move.  And the key to our art is what?  Moving.  (Demonstrates by moving is arms in their Tai-Chi like style.)  You have to learn to know yourself.  Your strengths, your weaknesses.  We all make mistakes from time to time and when we make a mistake we wanna be forgiven, right?  But we have to remember to forgive others when they make a mistake.  Continue.

(Nick and Bryan square off again, neither quite ready to let their fight go.)

Scene:  Martial Arts School- Weight Room

 

(Ali is on a stationary bike when Tom finds here.)

Tom:  Ali, can I ask your advice?

Ali:  Sure.

Tom:  Okay, if you were twelve, what would you want for your birthday?

Ali:  A pony.

Tom:  (Laughs)  Smaller.

Ali:  Diamond earrings? 

Tom:  Come on, with a budget.

Ali:  This is for your daughter, right? 

Tom:  Yeah.  Her birthday's coming up and with this ongoing custody battle I'm hoping her mom's going to let me get her a gift so. . .there's a little bit of pressure.

Ali:  Twelve is tough.  And you have to find the perfect thing. 

Tom:  You're not helping.

Ali:  Sorry.  (Tom starts to walk away.)  Ohh, wait!  I know the perfect store.  It's called Refraction.  You can't go wrong there, I promise you.

Tom:  Okay

Ali:  Do you want me to go with you?

Tom:  Thanks, but I'm going to try this by myself. 

Scene:  Martial Arts School- Outside By The Waterfront

(Bryan exits the building to find Trip leaning against a railing shining a shoe.)

Bryan:  You got a date?

Trip:  No, no I got a job working as a waiter at a restaurant over on Sutters. 

Bryan:  Good for you. 

Trip:  Thanks.

Bryan:  But I thought you were working here.

Trip:  Yeah, for room and board, but I gotta increase my cash flow.  I gotta go out once in a while.

Bryan:  Yeah, I hear that.  I'm having the same issue, man.

Trip:  Can I ask you a question?

Bryan:  Yeah, shoot.

Trip:  Okay, let's say a girl likes you, but she won't go out with you.

Bryan:  You mean Tory? 

(Trip gives him a surprised look that he figured it out.  Bryan laughs a little.)  What?  You wouldn't think I have eyes? 

Trip:  Yeah, Tory.

Bryan:  My feelings on this one is you gotta play the long con. 

Trip:  The long con?

Bryan:  Yeah, see there's the short con and there's the long con.

Trip:  Go on.

Bryan:  Alright, the short con is when you're direct.  You tell the girl you like her.  You hit her hard, you hit her fast.  Candy, roses, lots of E-mail.  All that good stuff. 

Trip:  Right.

Bryan:  As opposed to the long con, that's where you start out as just friends.  She has no idea you wanna date her.  She just thinks you're her buddy.  Then one day she realizes 'wow, I really love this guy.  This guy is my best friend.'  And then you're in.  The long con.

Trip:  And, and you're saying Tory's the long con type of girl?

Bryan:  For you?  Totally.  Look, just put instant romance out of your mind, alright? 

Scene:  Tory's Bedroom

(Tory is on her bed flipping through a magazine and listening to her headphones when her mom knock and enters carrying a garment bag like something from a dry cleaners.)

Mom:  Tory!

Tory:  What?

Mom:  Don't bite my head off, but I bought you something.

(Mom sits down on the bed and lays out the bag.)

Tory:  Hang on (removes her headphones)

Mom:  For your grandparents anniversary party tomorrow.  I know if it were up to you, you'd wear ripped jeans and a motorcycle jacket.

Tory:  So?!  What's wrong with that?

Mom:  Seriously, what were you going to wear?

Tory:  I don't know, I didn't think about it.  (Looks in the bag.)  What did you get me?

Mom:  A dress. 

Tory:  Are you kidding me?  You went out and got me a dress?  What am I, eight years old?

Mom:  I knew I wouldn't get you in a store.

Tory:  True.

Mom:  Well, what do you think?

(Mom holds out the dress for Tory's inspection.)

Tory:  I don't know, it's fine I guess.  It's a dress.

Mom:  Do me this one favor and wear it.  It'll make your grandparents very happy. 

Tory:  Fine, I'll wear it.  If it'll make you happy.

Mom:  Thank you.

(Tory stands up and take the dress over to the full length mirror on her closet door and holds it in front of her.)

Mom:  You remember the last time I bought you a dress?

Tory:  Here it comes.

Mom:  You spent the entire afternoon climbing trees and when you came home you had this big rip in it.  I was furious.

Tory:  (Laughing) Well Dad thought it was funny.

Mom:  Yeah, well I was angry at him too.

Tory:  Thanks for the dress mom.  I appreciate it.

Mom:  You're welcome.  Now I want veto power on all accessories you choose.

Tory:  Go away before I change my mind. 

Mom:  (Leaving)  Okay.

Scene:  Busy City Sidewalk

(Tom and Beth are walking and discussing their daughter.)

Beth:  I shouldn't be here.

Tom:  I know, I just didn't want to discuss it on the phone.

Beth:  (Sighs)  Look, I really don't see why you're making such a big deal.  You don't have to get Claire anything, she doesn't need anything.

Tom:  Well she asked me why I never remembered her birthdays.  Look, I really wanna get her something.  I could send it, or you could give it to her after her party.  I wouldn't have asked if she hadn't brought it up.

Beth:  Oh, this is so hard.  

Tom:  Look, I know.  I don't want to rock the boat, I just want her to know that her father did not forget her, okay?

Beth:  Okay.  Let me ask her and see what she wants to do first.

Tom:  Fine.  That's all I want.

Scene:  Marital Arts School- Parking Lot

(Bryan is in his car trying to get it to start and it's not working.  Trip comes outside.)

Trip:  Sounds like a timing chain.

Bryan:  Yeah, why doesn't that sound cheap?

(Trip opens the hood to take a look at things.  Smoke comes out and Bryan gets out to join him.)

Trip:  I know a guy who could fix it.

Bryan:  How much?

Trip:  Probably six hundred. 

Bryan:  Six hundred?  Man, this can't be happening.  I don't have that kind of money. 

Trip:  It's not the end of the world.

Bryan:  No, I need my car.

(Nick comes outside and starts to overhear Bryan problem)

Bryan:  Both my parents gotta be to work by six, so I take my little sister to school every day.  She's counting on me, man.  She goes to the one good school in the district because I can drive her there.  What am I gonna do?

Nick:  Maybe I can help.

Bryan:  You know about a job?

Nick:  Nope.  But I can help you make some money.  You know Cue Sticks on California?  Meet me there around nine.  (Bryan nods)  I'll tell ya all about it. 

(Nick walks away.  Bryan realizes something a calls after him.)

Bryan:  Hey, I don't play pool, Bro!

Nick:  Neither do I.

Trip:  I wouldn't do it.

Bryan:  I need the money.  I wanna hear what he's got to say. 

Scene:  Tory's Mom's Car

(Mom pulls the car to a stop in front of a store.)

Mom:  You look absolutely beautiful.  I am so proud of you. 

Tory:  Mom, I put on a dress, okay?  I didn't climb Mt. Everest. 

Mom:  I'll come help you pick the card.

Tory:  No you won't!

(Tory's suddenly in a hurry to get out of the car.)

Tory:  You'll embarrass me, okay.  Stay here, I'll be right back.

(Tory gets out of the car and someone whistles and shouts something at her.  She looks very uncomfortable.)

Mom:  You look like an angel!

(Tory shoots her mom a dirty look and hurried inside the store.)

Scene:  Inside Store

(Tory sees a display or cards and goes over to them and starts reading them, rejecting ones she doesn't like.  A boy comes up behind her.)

Boy:  What's that one say?

Tory:  Oh, 'my heart soars on the day of your special occasion'.  Who writes these things?

Boy:  Elves on Prozac?

Tory:  (Laughing.)  Yeah, probably.

Boy:  You have a great smile.

Tory:  Thanks.  Years of orthodontia.

Boy:  Well it's paid off.  What's the occasion?

Tory:  Grandparents fortieth anniversary.  You should see them, they're very cute together. 

Boy:  Well, true love is eternal.

Tory:  What?

Boy:  It's on the card.  It's kind of corny, but it works. 

Tory:  No!  That's perfect.  Thank you.

(She takes the card.)

Boy:  So what's your name?

Tory:  Tory.  What's yours?

Boy:  Matthew.

Scene:  Cue Sticks

(Bryan walks up to the pool club and seems very out of place.  When he gets there, Nick is already inside waiting for him.)

Nick:  What's up?  I've been waiting for ya.

Bryan:  What's up with the look?

(Nick is dressed very preppy.  Khakis, nice shirt, tie, the works.)

Nick:  It's all part of the game. 

Bryan:  The game?  Whatcha mean, pool game?

Nick:  Nope.  Watch and learn. 

(Nick casually walks through the bar and 'accidentally' bumps into a guy lining up his game winning shot.  The guy misses and turns to Nick.)

Guy:  You just cost me twenty bucks, man.

Nick:  Sorry.  It was an accident.

Guy:  You own me twenty bucks.

Nick:  Buzz off Chief.  You were gonna miss it anyway. 

(Nick starts to walk away, but the guy grabs his arm and hauls him back)

Guy:  Was I, Chief?  Come on punk, we're going outside.

(The guy drags Nick to the parking lot.)

Scene:  Outside Of Cue Sticks

(Nick is telling Bryan the next step of him plan.)

Nick:  I want you to take every bet that you can.

Bryan:  Bet on what?

Nick:  Me.  Do it.  Trust me. 

(Bryan seems hesitant)

Nick:  Look, do you wanna get your sister to school?

Guy:  Let's go, bitch!

Nick:  Shut up, man.

(The guy decks Nick.) 

Nick:  It's cool.  It's cool.

Bryan:  I got twenty on my man here.

Observer:  Twenty on Grant.

(Bryan continues taking bets while Nick gets his ass kicked by Grant.  After beating up Nick, Grant goes over to his friends to celebrate his victory.)

Grant:  That's how it's done!

(Nick looks a Bryan, who shows him the money he's collected.  Nick starts to get back up and starts advancing towards Grant.  When Nick is close enough, Grant swings another punch, but Nick is faster.  While Grant is staggering back to his feet, clutching his nose, Nick is getting ready to strike again.  Nick lands a spinning kick to Grant's chest, knocking him backwards into the crowd.  Bryan realizes that Nick just won and starts collecting the money.)

Bryan:  Yeah, that's what I'm talking about!  Yeah!  Right there, thank you very much.  Thanks for doing business.

Nick:  (To Grant)  Lucky shot. 

(Nick starts to grin and walks over to Bryan.)

Bryan: I can not believe you did that, man.  We are paid.

[Commercial Break]

Scene:  Refraction.

Music:  "It's About Time" by Lillix.

(Tom walks into the store and starts to look around, clearly out of his element.  He picks up a leopard print tank top and throws it back down once he realizes what it is.  A blonde woman sees this.)

Tom:  No way.

Blonde Woman:  How old is she?

Tom:  Twelve.

Blonde Woman:  Is she sporty?  Girly?  Does she have to wear a uniform to school?

Tom:  Yes.  No.  Yes.  You work here?

Blonde Woman:  No.  You just look lost.  So I'm guessing you're divorced?

Tom:  Yes.

Blonde Woman:  Hmm.  Follow me. 

(She leads tom to another part of the store.)

Blonde Woman:  Why don't you pick a theme?

Tom:  I'm a guy, I don't know what you're talking about. 

Blonde Woman:  You know, uh, slumber party.  You could get her PJs and a DVD player. 

Tom:  Okay, how 'bout this?

(He pulls something pink off of a rack, probably pyjamas or a jogging suit.)

Blonde Woman:  That's for an eight year old. 

Tom:  How many years of school do I need before I know what I'm doing? 

(Tom picks up a jacket or sweater thing  that's got fluffy things sticking out of it.)

Tom:  What is this?

Blonde Woman:  Well I'm still working on it and just when I think I've got it down, my daughter surprises me.  

Tom:  Well, what's the answer?

Blonde Woman:  I don't know, just keep trying.  (Puts a pink hat on her head)  Or buy one of everything.

Scene:  Martial Arts School

(Ali is working with a punching bag when Nick enters.  Ali kicks it and Nick stops it.)

Nick:  Are you this tough on men?

Ali:  Why don't you move the bag and I'll show you. 

Nick:  (Considers it for a moment.)  Tempting.

(Instead, Nick walks away and Ali watches him go.)

Scene:  Martial Arts School- Girl's Locker Room

 

(Tory and Ali are there getting changes after class.)

Ali:  What do you think of Nick?

Tory:  I think he's a jerk.

Ali:  Yeah, a really hot jerk. 

Tory:  Guess what.  (Happy, sing song voice)  I met someone.

Ali:  You did?

Tory:  Yeah.  He's cute.  He's smart.  Actually no, he's really good looking. 

Ali:  Okay, walk me through this.  You actually met a guy, in public.  Did you flirt?

Tory:  Yeah, I flirted.

Ali:  Did you exchange numbers?

Tory:  Mmm hmm.  We’re having dinner.

Ali:  And the whole time you never felt the urge to flip him over your shoulder?

Tory:  You know what?  I'm never telling you anything ever again.

Ali:  Just kidding.  I think this is great.

Tory:  The problem is, I don't think he has an accurate picture of who I really am. 

Ali:  Well when you first meet somebody there's always a bit of deception.  I mean, you wanna be the person that they think you are. 

Tory:  That's exactly it!  My mom bought me this dress, which is what I was wearing when I met him.  So now he thinks I'm a girl in a dress.  Not only that, a girly girl who like, paints her toenails and chews with her mouth closed. 

Ali:  So?

Tory:  Well, I'm used to getting treated like one of the guys.  This is different.

Ali:  So go out with him and see what happens. 

Tory:  I only have one dress.

Ali:  That, so not a problem.

Scene:  Martial Arts School- Outside

(Tory's leaving when Trip catches up with her.)

Trip:  Hey.

Tory:  Hey.  So Bryan tells me you got a new job waiting tables.  That's cool.

Trip:  Yeah, it's a nice little place.  Hey, you should come by tonight.  Totally casual.  (Tory's silent.)  What?

Tory:  (Kind of uncomfortable) To be honest, I think I've got a date. 

Trip:  Well that's great.  That's cool.  I mean, bring him by.  I'm totally serious.

Tory:  I think he's the kind of guy that likes to choose his own place. 

Trip:  Oh well, the offer's there.

(Trip starts to walk away then stops when Tory starts her bike and rides away.  He watches her go.)

Scene:  Martial Arts School- Main Room

(Nick and Tom are working together, circling each other.)

Nick:  I read in Ancient China, that the bodyguards of the emperors all were trained in the art of Bagua.  They could fight eight men at once.  That's what I want to do. 

Tom:  Not yet. 

(Nick is disappointed and drops his form)

Nick:  I think you underestimate me.

Tom:  This is an eternal art form.  It takes time.  We're gonna focus on finding and developing your center.  When you're able to do that, everything else will fall in place.  Switch sides.  Guard position.  Okay?

Nick:  (Nods)  Good.

Tom:  Good.

(They continue practicing)

Scene:  Tom's Home

 

(Master Li is tending to his flowers and Tom is in his room getting ready.)

Master Li:  Did you get a present for Claire?

(Tom enters, still buttoning up his shirt for the night)

Tom:  No.  I spent four hours looking for one but I still didn't get one.  You know, it's the first time I'm buying her a gift in seven years so it's gotta be right.

Master Li:  If it comes from your heart, it will be perfect.

Tom:  Yeah. . . right. . . but right now my heart isn't giving me a clear picture.

Master Li:  You look so fancy.  Where are you going?

Tom:  I got a date. 

Master Li:  Who's the lucky woman?

Tom:  (Goes back to his room to get something while he's speaking)  Well, I met this woman when I was looking for Claire's gift.  We started talking, had some coffee, you know.

Master Li:  Oh, you're wearing a tie?

Tom:  What?

Master Li:  Young Tom, you are not a tie kind of guy. 

Tom:  A 'tie kind of a guy'?  What the heck is that?  When is there a life lesson is wearing a tie or not wearing a tie?  (Takes the tie off.)  Okay, you win.  No tie.  Fine with me.  Alright, I'm out of here.  Got any more pearls of wisdom you'd like to bestow upon me before I depart?

Master Li:  Here's my advice:  One before saying hello.  One before saying goodnight.  Everything else in between will work itself out. 

(Master Li holds out a pack of Tic-Tacs)

Tom:  Oh.  (Checks his breath.)  Good thinking.  You want one?

Scene:  Tory's Bedroom

 

(Ali drops a duffel bag onto Tory's bed and starts pulling dresses out of it.)

Ali:  Okay. 

Tory:  Oh my God.  These were just sitting in your closet?

Ali:  Well, I'd take them all to the Salvation Army, but my mom would notice they were missing.

(She brings over another duffel bag)

Tory:  What's with the price tags?

Ali:  Some of them I haven't even worn yet.  They're not exactly my style.

(Ali holds a black dress against herself that's decorated with lots of brightly colored beads.)

Tory:  I think it is.

Ali:  My mom will disappear for four days with a new, overly tan, boyfriend and when she resurfaces, she leaves a new outfit on my bed. 

Tory:  This is six hundred dollars!

Ali:  I know.  It's a colossal waste of money.

Tory:  Why don't you just tell her not to buy 'em?

Ali:  I can't.  It'd hurt her feelings.  It's her way of showing affection.

(Tory picks a dress out of the pile and takes it over to the mirror.)

Tory:  You think this'll look good on me?

Ali:  Are you kidding?

Scene: Cue Sticks

 

Music:  "Down" by SocialBurn.

(Bryan and Nick are back, Nick is dressed in his prep outfit again.)

Bryan:  Isn't it a little dangerous coming back to the same place?

Nick:  You think I'm stupid?  That I didn't check this place out?  There's a different crowd in her every night. 

(They see a big guy shooting pool with his friends and he sinks a ball.)

Thug:  Ah, who's the man?!

Nick:  (To Bryan)  Him.

Scene:  Outside Cue Sticks

 

(Immediate cut to Nick getting punched in the nose by the Thug.)

Bryan:  (Collecting money.)  Who's taking?  Come on, let's do it! 

(Nick and the Thug fight some more.  Nick gets pushed toward Bryan.)

Nick:  How are we doing?

Bryan:  Yeah, we're set.  Are you sure you can do this? 

Nick:  Yeah.  (Gets back up to continue the fight.)

Bryan:  Alright, who's betting?

(The thug grabs Nick, leaving his stomach unprotected  so Nick slugs him, gaining the advantage.  Nick lands a spin kick to the Thug's chest and knocks him into some barrel against the wall. 

Bryan:  Oh yeah, that's what I'm talking about.  Pay me.  Thank you.  Pleasure doing business with you again. 

(Nick goes over to flirt with some girls.)

Nick:  How are you doing?

Bryan:  It's been real.  It's been fun.  It's been real fun.

(Meanwhile, the thug gets up and grabs Bryan's shirt)

Thug:  Never hustle a hustler.  Give me the money.

(The thus has a knife that he draws across Bryan's chest, drawing blood.  Nick sees this and kicks the knife out of the thugs hand and knocks him back into the barrels.  Two of the thug's friends grab sticks and attack Bryan and Nick, but they overcome them.)

Nick:  Whoo!  Never think you're better than you are. 

(Nick kicks the thug's leg while Bryan's examining his wound.  Bryan starts to walk away.)

Nick:  Where you going?

Bryan:  Forget it, man.

Scene:  Ali's House

(Ali is sitting on the couch doing homework when the doorbell rings.)

Ali:  Mom!  (The doorbell rings again.)  Mom!

Ali's Mom:  Ali, that's my date, would you get that please?

Ali:  Alright.

Ali's Mom:  I'll be right there. 

(Ali sighs and goes to answer the door.  A look of surprise crosses her face when she sees Tom on the other side.  He is just as surprised.)

Tom:  Ali.

Ali:  Mr. C. 

(Ali's mom comes into the entryway at that point and sees Tom.  She's the blonde woman from Refraction.)

Ali's Mom:  Hi.

(Ali looks at her mom and then back to Tom)

Ali:  Oh my God. 

[Commercial]

Scene:  Restaurant

(Tory is leaning against a wall waiting for Matthew, who is talking to the hostess.)

Matthew:  It was supposed to be at seven o-clock.

(Matthew comes back to where Tory's waiting, slightly annoyed)

Matthew:  I don't believe this!  They lost my reservation and they wont have a table for an hour.  I'm really sorry. 

Tory:  It's okay.  Don't worry about it.

(It starts to rain.  Matthew put his jacket around Tory.)

Matthew:  Man, let's get a cab.  Do you know any places to eat around here?

Tory:  Yeah.  Actually my friend just started working at a restaurant.  It's just around the corner.

Matthew:  That sounds great. 

Scene:  Trip's Restaurant

(It's an old fashioned pizza place where they use brick ovens.  A host shows them to a table.  Tory goes to take her seat and Matthew pulls a chair out for her.  She's half seated when she realizes that's what he's doing.)

Tory:  Sorry. 

(She takes the chair he pulled out for her.) 

Tory:  Thanks.  Is this place alright?

Matthew:  Yeah, it's great. 

Tory:  Good.

Matthew:  So, how's Marina Park High?

Tory:  It's decent.

(Cuts over to Trip, who hears Tory's voice.)

Tory:  You know, I mean, it's school.  Where do you go?

Matthew:  I'm a sophomore at SF State.

(Trip comes over to their table.)

Tory:  Hey!

Trip:  (Less than excite to see her with Matthew)  Hey. 

Tory:  Matthew, this is my friend Trip.  Trip, this is Matthew.

(They shake hands.)

Matthew:  Nice to meet ya. 

Trip:  It's nice to meet you.

(They're silent for a few seconds.)

Tory:  Is something wrong? 

Trip:  No, it's just you look really. .uh. . .different.  Nice.  No seriously, just different. 

Tory:  (Uncomfortable with the way things are going.)  So, are there any specials?

Matthew:  How do you two know each other?

Trip:  Oh, we go to school together.  Yeah, we take this class-

Tory:  History class.  We take history together. 

Matthew:  Cool.

Trip:  Oh and uh, here are the menus.  Specials are on the back and uh, I'll bring you guys back some water.

Matthew:  Thank you.

Tory:  Yeah, thanks.

Scene:  Yet Another Restaurant

 

(Tom and Ali's Mom are at a table, laughing.)

Tom:  He's playing this like, really pitiful rendition of Born To Be Wild on his harmonica, he's playing the drum with his foot so I. . .

Ali's Mom:  Well, don't tell me you bought the CD. 

Tom:  Of course I-

Ali's Mom:  You bought the CD.

Tom:  Artists need support.

Ali's Mom:  So can I ask you something?

Tom:  Sure.

Ali's Mom:  Do you think Ali was mad at me when we left?

Tom:  No.  I mean, it was a look of shock.  As I was shocked.

Ali's Mom:  I don't know, sometimes I feel like she doesn't even need me.  You know, it's like she's raising herself.

Tom:  I just think it's hard for kids to let their parents know they need them.

Ali's Mom:  You're right.  Maybe we should stop talking about Ali.  

Tom:  Pick a subject.

Ali's Mom:  Eastern Philosophy.

Tom:  You're kidding, right?

Ali's Mom:  No.  No, I was um, a philosophy major in college.  Don't let the blonde hair fool you. 

Tom:  Waiter, check please.

(They both laugh)

Scene:  Outdoor Coffee Place

 

(Tory and Ali are talking)

Ali:  It's not that big a deal. 

Tory:  Tom is dating your mother.  What are the odds of that happening?  How can you say that's not a big deal?

Ali:  Look, they're both adults.  They can do what they want and I'm okay with it.

Tory:  No you're not.

Ali:  Yes I am.

Tory:  Okay, let me set the scene for you.  You get up one morning.  It's beautiful.  You stretch leisurely and put on your little cute fuzzy bunny slippers.

Ali:  I don’t wear slippers. 

Tory:  Whatever.  You go downstairs and sitting at your breakfast table in Tom, wearing absolutely nothing but his boxers. 

Ali:  Oh.

Tory:  Okay, who's sitting on his lap?  Your mom.  Why?  Because they're sharing a bowl of cereal together and discussing whether or not he gets his own drawer of clothing in her bedroom.

Ali:  Okay!  Just. . . stop.  I'm not okay with it.  I hardly slept last night.  It's just so like my mother.  It's like finally ran out of ways to embarrass me so she thought 'Oh, I know!  I'll date Ali's martial arts instructor.  I haven't done that one yet.'

Tory:  What are you gonna do?

Ali:  What am I supposed to do?  I'll just wait it out like some horrible virus.  Ugh.

Scene:  Martial Arts School- Main Practice Room

 

(Tom is observing his class.  He approaches Ali.)

Tom:  I think we should talk.

(Ali nods and followed him to a more private place.  Nick takes the opportunity to talk to Bryan.)

Nick:  We going out tonight?

Bryan:  Nah, I got homework.

Nick:  How much money do you need to fix your ride?

Bryan:  Two hundred. 

(Nick pulls some money out of his pocket and counts it out.)

Nick:  Here, guaranteed up front.  All you gotta do is show for me for one fight tonight. 

Bryan:  I can't.  (Gives Nick the money back.) 

Nick:  Why not? 

Bryan:  'Cuz what you're doing is not cool, man.

Nick:  So what?  All practice, no play?  Come on.  You come out with me tonight, I guarantee you'll make enough money to buy a new car.  Okay?

Bryan:  Nah, it ain't worth it.  It's not what I'm about.

Nick:  Whatever man, your call.

Scene:  Martial Arts School- Outside By The Waterfront

 

Tom:  Obviously I didn't know she was your mom. 

Ali:  Yeah, I kinda figured by your expression. 

Tom:  Yeah.

Ali:  I've never seen you look like that.

Tom:  Yeah, it was a shock.

Ali:  You know, I don't wanna get in the way-

Tom:  No Ali, I mean she's great and if she wasn't your mom it would be different, but we're not going out again so. . .

Ali:  You know, I want my mom to find a guy like you just. . . not you.

Tom:  I understand. 

Scene:  Outside Downtown

(Matthew and Tory are on another date.  She's in another dress.)

Matthew:  So you liked it?

Tory:  Yeah.  I'm not used to that kind of art, I'm used to the renaissance paintings in museums.

Matthew:  What was your favorite part?

Tory:  Probably the moving photograph thing.  That was really cool.

Matthew:  Yeah, I thought so too. 

Tory:  Matthew, I haven't been completely honest with you. 

Matthew:  Oh.  Me either.

Tory:  (hopefully)  Yeah?

Matthew:  I haven't admitted how much I actually like you. 

(They start to kiss.)

Mugger:  Give me your damn keys.  Give me your keys, now!  Key!

Matthew:  Take 'em.  Take whatever you want. 

Mugger:  Wallet, come on.  Gimme your wallet.  Come on come on come on come on.

(Tory elbows him in the nose and throws him around a bit, eventually sending him through a car window, setting off the alarm.  Matthew looks stunned and Tory just stands there holding up her dress strap that ripped in the fight.)

Scene:  Cue Sticks

Music:  "The Art Of Losing" By American Hi-Fi

(Nick, in a different prep outfit, is looking around for a mark when Grant (the first mark) comes up behind him.)

Grant:  Remember me?  Yeah, I got your number.  I've been waiting for you.  I got someone for you to fight.

Nick:  Bring it on.  I got nothing to hide.

(Nick turns around to see a muscular guy waiting for him, known as Thug or some variation of that in this transcript.  NOT the same thug as before.)

Grant:  A thousand bucks says this guy kicks your ass.

Nick:  Let's rock.

Grant:  That's not too much money for you.

Nick:  You still don't get it, do you?  It's not about the money.

[Commercial Break]

Scene:  Martial Arts School- Tom's Office

 

Bryan:  Hey yo, Mr. C., Something's going on tonight.

Tom:  What is it? 

Bryan:  I don't know.  Look, I don't like coming at you like this. 

Tom:  Is it about Nick?

Bryan:  Yeah, he's in trouble, man.  Over his head, under the water type trouble. 

Tom:  Come on.

Scene:  Outside Cue Sticks

 

Music:  "Ready Steady Go" By Paul Oakenfold.

(Nick and the newest Thug are getting ready to fight with a big crowd of people circling them.  Nick attacks first.  He gets in a couple of hits, but they do nothing to faze the guy.  The Thug retaliates, throwing punches at Nick and sending him backwards.  Nick tries to kick the Thug, but the Thug grabs Nick's leg and throws him to the ground.  Grant starts kicking him.  Bryan arrives.)

Bryan:  Hey, get the hell off!

(Bryan grabs Grant and pulls him off of Nick, only to have the newest Thug kick Bryan in the face and send him flying, just in time for Mr. C to get there.)

Tom:  Okay, let this be over, alright?

Thug:  It's over when I say it is. 

(Tom fights the guys while Bryan helps Nick to his feet and away from the crowd.  Tom wins.  He grabs Nick and gets him out of there.)

Scene:  Martial Arts School- Boy's Locker Room

 

(Tory knocks on the door and opens it.  Trip is in there getting dressed.)

Trip:  Hey.

Tory:  Hey.  Look, thanks for the other night.  That was really sweet and kind of an awkward situation. 

Trip:  Hey, now worries.  You uh, didn't want him to know you train here?

Tory:  Yeah.  The dress, it was the whole thing,  you know.  He kinda had this different impression of me and not that that even matters.  The point is, I don't think I'll be seeing him again.

Trip:  Why?

Tory:  I think he was a little intimidated by the fact that I could kick his ass. 

Trip:  You think you could?

Tory:  Yeah!  Definitely.  Think I'll stick with the regular me. 

Trip:  There's nothing wrong with that. 

(He puts his jacket on ad Tory straightens his collar.)

Tory:  You still have those White Strips tickets? 

Trip:  Yeah.

Tory:  I'd kinda like to go.

Trip:  Great.

Scene:  Martial Arts School- Main Practice Room

 

Music:  "Broken" by Seether.

(Tom is practicing by himself when Claire and Beth walk up.  Claire glances at her mom and gets and encouraging look so she walks closer.  Tom sees them.)

Tom:  Hi.

Claire:  Hi. 

Tom:  You have time for some tea?

(Claire glances at her mom, who nods.  Claire nods as well.)

Scene:  Tom's Apartment

(Beth pours a glass of tea and sets it in front of Tom)

Tom:  Thanks.  (To Claire)  I heard you're having a party.

Claire:  Four o'clock.

Tom:  Happy birthday.  I got you a little gift.

(Tom sets a wrapped package on the table.)

Tom:  Go ahead.  Open it.

(Claire does and pulls out a camera.)

Claire:  Wow.

Tom:  It's digital.  You can download pictures-

Claire:  Into my computer.  I know, my friend has one just like it. 

Tom:  I was thinking maybe, if it's okay with your mother, you could send me a picture every once in a while.  'Cuz I missed five years of your life and uh, I don't wanna miss any more. 

Claire:  Thanks.

Scene:  Martial Arts School- Hallway Leading To Practice Room/Tom's Office

 

(From behind we see Nick walking up to the room and stop outside the doorway.  He looks around a bit, then turns and walks back down the hallway, stopping outside the door to Tom's office for a second before  going in.  Tom is sitting at his desk with Bryan across from him.  We can see how badly beat up Nick is.)

Nick:  Sorry. 

Bryan:  No, I was just leaving.  Thanks Mr. C.

(Mr. C. gives Bryan a wave.  Bryan walks out past Nick without a word and Tom waits for the door to close before talking to Nick.)

Tom:  Have a seat, Nick.

Nick:  This isn't gonna be good news, is it?

Tom:  Well let me ask you a question.  Why should I let you stay here?  (Nick sits down slowly without giving an answer.)  Hmm?

Nick:  You kicking me out?

Tom:  Is there a reason I shouldn't?

Nick:  No, none that I can think of.  I'm a trouble maker.  I stir things up.  That's pretty much what I do.  What did you expect, that I was gonna beg you for forgiveness?

(Nick gets up to leave.)

Tom:  Oh, that's great. 

Nick:  What?

Tom:  Let's talk.  I'm not ready to give up on you, okay?

Nick:  Okay. 

Tom:  So now that you know I haven't written you off, tell me why I should let you stay.

Nick:  You need a challenge.  I'm your challenge.

Tom:  No, I don't need another challenge.  What else?

(By now Nick is both annoyed and confused and is raising his voice.  Tom is also annoyed and raising his voice.)

Nick:  You wanna sleep with my aunt?

Tom:  No!

Nick:  I don't get-!  What are you looking for?!

Tom:  A simple, honest answer, Nick!  Drop the bad boy routine for a second, will ya?  Why did you walk through this door?  Why are you here?

Nick:  Because martial arts is the one thing in my life that I'm good at. 

Tom:  That's a start.  What else?

Nick:  I- I have nowhere else to go.

Tom:  Okay.  You're welcome to train here.  Class starts tomorrow at ten o'clock.  Don't be late.

(Tom opens the door for Nick, signaling that their conversation is over.  Nick leaves and Tom closes the door.)

Scene:  Tom's Home

 

(Tom is sitting at his kitchen table with his laptop.  He gets a thank-you e-mail from Claire with a picture of her and her birthday cake.  He smiles.)

[Fade Out]

==========================
Transcribed by MM (rocker_chic_86@hotmail.com) for http://www.twiztv.com
==========================