CUPID

"Pick Up Schticks"

By
Michael Conathan
&
Rob Thomas

TEASER

FADE IN:

INT. BEDROOM, CLAIRE'S TOWNHOUSE - NIGHT

Claire and Alex are snuggling in bed.
CLAIRE
You are so good.

ALEX
What?

CLAIRE
You.

ALEX
Just good?

CLAIRE
Oh, you feel like shooting for great?

ALEX
I feel I have been shooting for great. Yes.

CLAIRE
(giggles)
Yes.

ALEX
Four...

CLAIRE
Actually five.

ALEX
(in a very content voice)
Five. Five.
Her hand slowly traces a line down his chest then disappears under the covers.
CLAIRE
Do you think that six would violate some law of physics I don't know about?
By Alex's reaction we know where her hand went.
ALEX
Is this why they called you "Sparky" as a kid?

CLAIRE
Yeah, Alex, it's my unquenchable sexual appetite at age seven. You see, kids can be very cruel.

ALEX
(smiles)
I knew you had an intriguing childhood. No, seriously, where did the nickname come from?

CLAIRE
Ohh! I don't even know why I ever mentioned it.
She starts kissing his chest.
ALEX
(enjoying the kisses)
See, this--this is surplus pep. Are you, like, doing the diner scene from When Harry Met Sally?

CLAIRE
(smiles)
Oh, Alex, you give my acting ability far too much credit.

ALEX
Good. Good.
He gives her a quick kiss.
ALEX
Good.
Gives another kiss then closes eyes and settles in for the night. Claire just looks at him.
CLAIRE
I am so lucky, you know that?

ALEX
Mm-hmm.

CLAIRE
You're a great cuddler.
Alex opens his eyes.
ALEX
What did you just call me?

CLAIRE
A cuddler.

ALEX
Oh no. No, no.
(laughs)
You don't call me that.

CLAIRE
No?

ALEX
Mm-mm.

CLAIRE
(coquettishly)
Whatcha gonna do about it?

ALEX
I'll show you.
She giggles as he leans over her and they start kissing.

FADE OUT

END OF TEASER

ACT ONE

FADE IN:

INT. HALLWAY, CHAMP & TREVOR'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

CHRIS (the upstairs neighbour and Champ's new girlfriend) and Champ are kissing. Trevor appears from around the corner and sees them. He watches them as he quietly goes to the door. The sound of the door unlocking causes Chris and Champ to look at him.
TREVOR
Uh, neighbourhood voyeur.
Trevor enters the apartment closing the door behind him.
CHRIS
I, uh... I should be getting upstairs.
(starts walking away)
Bye.
When Chris disappears around the corner, Champ's smile fades. He looks at his door with an annoyed expression. He didn't appreciate Trevor's interuption.

INT. CHAMP & TREVOR'S APARTMENT - CONTINUOUS

Trevor, who's been listening through the door, quickly moves to the kitchen counter when he hears Champ entering. He pretends to read some mail as Champ enters.
CHAMP
If you really were a god you'd have a lot better timing than that.

TREVOR
That's what second dates are for. There will be a second date?

CHAMP
No comment.

TREVOR
No comment? You live with the God of Love and you're not even willing to suckle at the teat of my wisdom.
Trevor goes to the fridge and grabs a couple of bottles of beer.
CHAMP
Listen, I asked her out on my own terms, okay. There are no beads for you here. I'm not gonna be a part of your hundred couples. So do me a favour by keeping your Cupid ass outta my love life.
Trevor hands Champ a beer.
TREVOR
Wow! I don't know if the family business will survive without your patronage but we're gonna give it a shot.

CHAMP
You talk the talk but I can't recall hearing the squeaks of springs coming out of your room.

TREVOR
That is a conscious decision, my friend. I could have this place looking like the junior prom on Ecstasy if I wanted.

CHAMP
What's holding you back?

TREVOR
The Prime Directive.

CHAMP
Well, that explains why you won't let me borrow your phaser.

TREVOR
Not Star Trek. Memo from Zeus - No shagging the livestock.

CHAMP
And by livestock you mean...?

TREVOR
Mortals.
Trevor heads to his room.
CHAMP
(sighs)
(to himself)
Count to ten.
(calling after Trevor)
Admit it. You're making this up as you go along. The Greek Gods were always slipping off the mountain to make it with the farmer's daughter.
Trevor comes back.
TREVOR
(raises his beer)
To the Bacchanal that once was. It is not that way anymore. If I make it with a human I lose my immortality. End of story.

CHAMP
So, if you slip suddenly you become Trevor Hale, bartender.

TREVOR
Trevor Hale, chronically depressed five thousand year old bartender, yeah.
Trevor starts to carefully peel the label of his beer.
CHAMP
Well, you know what they say about people who peel the labels off of beer bottles.

TREVOR
We're a dexterous lot?

CHAMP
This omniscience of yours, kinda comes and goes, doesn't it.
EXT. CHICAGO PARK - DAY

Claire and Alex are sitting at a park bench. They look like a new couple, you know what I mean, sitting real close together, smiling all the time, holding hands, the sun seems brighter, bird songs seem better, etc, etc...
CLAIRE
Do you know how happy I am right now?

ALEX
I think I have a pretty good idea. Do you have any plans for Saturday?

CLAIRE
No, but I thought it was your "He-man, woman-haters" club getaway weekend? You know, college football, tailgating, um, poker, uh, arm wrestling, tobacco chewing, chest hair comparing...

ALEX
Lunch at Hooters.

CLAIRE
Yeah.

ALEX
It was.

CLAIRE
What? Did it get cancelled?

ALEX
Not exactly.

CLAIRE
Well?

ALEX
Don't make me say it.

CLAIRE
Say what?

ALEX
I'd rather stay in town... with you.

CLAIRE
Oh. That's great, Alex. You know, there's this flea market I've been dying to...

ALEX
Don't make me regret it.

CLAIRE
Okay, never mind.

ALEX
You know, the weather's gonna hold through till tomorrow, so we should do this again.

CLAIRE
Yeah, we should. No we can't. Trevor found this totally authentic gyro stand and I told him we'd check it out.

ALEX
You know, for someone with a boyfriend as pliable as yours, you spend an awful lot of time with this guy and a less secure man could get jealous.

CLAIRE
(laughs)
Of Trevor?!

ALEX
Yeah.

CLAIRE
I appreciate the sentiment, but you have, like, nothing to worry about.

ALEX
Why?

CLAIRE
Uh...
(pauses)
He's a patient. Well, no not exactly a patient. He was released from Lakeview and placed under my supervision. We don't have regular sessions, or anything. He's just a bit deluded.

ALEX
Deluded how?

CLAIRE
He thinks he's Cupid.

ALEX
Cupid? Well, he did introduce us.

CLAIRE
What, you're not saying... you really... well, I mean, he did kinda introduce us...
He kisses her.
CLAIRE
I'm seeing you anyway...
He kisses her, again.
CLAIRE
But he's not Cupid.

ALEX
(playfully)
He could be.

CLAIRE
No, I don't think so.
They kiss.

INT. TAGGERTY'S - NIGHT

The bar is busy, as usual. Trevor is working the bar, while Champ keeps the more rowdy customers in order. Music is playing on the jukebox, people are dancing, everyone is having a good time. Well, almost everyone. Out on the dance floor, a pretty good-looking guy is dancing with this totally gorgeous woman (HELEN DAVIS). He's totally into the dancing. HELEN looks less than enthused. Her expression, her body language and the way her arms form the letter "L" all say that she wants to be rescued. Trevor notices this. He takes off his apron and goes over to her.
TREVOR
Leather Tuscadero?
Helen looks confused.
TREVOR
I can't believe it. Don't you remember? Junior high, spin the bottle parties? Hello?

HELEN
(getting it)
Oh my god! Carmine! Carmine Raguso! Ohh!
Trevor and Helen hug.
TREVOR
The Big Ragu.

HELEN
Yeah.

TREVOR
Come on.
Trevor leads her back to the bar leaving her dance partner very confused. But don't feel to bad for him because he just turns around and starts dancing with someone else.
HELEN
Hey, you know, I've always been sorry we never had those three minutes alone in the closet.

TREVOR
Three minutes would not have been enough. I'd needed three weeks!
She laughs as she takes a seat at the bar. Trevor takes his place behind the bar.
HELEN
So, you don't exactly look like you went to Vassar. How'd you learn to spot the loser dance?

TREVOR
Well, you did not look like you were having a good time with Bluto out there.

HELEN
God, was I that obvious?

TREVOR
Crickets trapped in fruit jars have exuded more joy.
(she laughs)
Besides, the flailing "L" kinda sealed the deal.
(imitates her dance)
Frightening. Also, I don't think you two belong together.

HELEN
Oh really? You make these decisions all on your own. Who belongs with whom.

TREVOR
Part of the job.

HELEN
(flirtatiously)
Really? I thought your job was getting me a drink.

TREVOR
Anything in particular?

HELEN
(very flirtatiously)
I am really, really in the mood for a screwdriver.

TREVOR
Only because you asked so nicely.
He moves to the other side of the bar to make her drink. As he walks away Helen checks out his ass.
TREVOR
So, saving you from the walking grope and buying you this drink earns me a name.

HELEN
It's Helen. Helen Davis.
He moves back and places her drink on the bar.
TREVOR
Helen. I knew a Helen once. Beautiful face. Bit of a trouble maker, though.
She smiles.

INT. TAGGERTY'S - NIGHT (JUMP CUT)

It's getting pretty late. The bar population has become very sparse. Some slow music is playing in the background while a couple of couples slow dance. Trevor and Helen are still at the bar. They've been talking the whole night. By their body language and close proximity to one another you can see the mutual attraction going on.
TREVOR
Alright, let's see, the best place?

HELEN
Yeah.

TREVOR
Inside of the Parthenon, no doubt. Amazing lady. Amazing atmosphere.

HELEN
The Parthenon?

TREVOR
Yes.

HELEN
In Greece.

TREVOR
Yes indeed.

HELEN
That's impressive.

TREVOR
Well...

HELEN
They watch over that place very closely. A couple of my college roommates tried to throw a rave there once.

TREVOR
Yeah?

HELEN
It didn't go over so well on the local authorities.

TREVOR
Well, this was a while ago. Security wasn't so tight. What about you? Best place?
(teasing her a bit)
Pick-up truck? Gas station bathroom?

HELEN
(laughing)
Oh stop it. Come on, you're flattering me...

TREVOR (cont'd)
50-yard line? Golf course? Which was it?

HELEN (cont'd)
You're flattering me here.
(smiles)
Actually, I was on a raft.

TREVOR
A raft?

HELEN
In the lake.

TREVOR
Mm-hmm?

HELEN
Mm-hmm. I was nineteen, swimming with Corbin Larson. Oh, a perfect night. There was this huge meteor shower, like, shooting stars everywhere. I saw this one... it must have burned for, like, ten seconds. Finally, I broke the silence by saying... Ha! God! I'll never forget this.
(sighs)
"The long slow ones are the best."
She laughs.
TREVOR
You are correct. And...?

HELEN
And? Oh, well, Corbin Larson proved me right.

TREVOR
Good work, Corbin.
Champ walks into the background.
CHAMP
Okay people! Finish 'em up! Don't care where you go but...

CHAMP/EVERYONE (except Trevor and Helen)
(simultaneous)
You can't stay here!
People start to leave.
HELEN
So, how long is it going to take you to clean up and get out of here? Hmm?

TREVOR
Uh...

HELEN
I mean, it's a little cold to skinny dip, but maybe we could... you know.

TREVOR
The Kappa Alpha males back there are getting very clingy with their pitcher...
She turns to see a group of young men still sitting at a table.
TREVOR (cont'd)
So, I--I can't... there's no way of telling how long I'll be here.

HELEN
Well, if I ever make it to the Parthenon, I'll look you up.

TREVOR
Okay.

HELEN
Okay.

TREVOR
All right.
Trevor leaves the bar. Champ is walking by when Helen calls him over.
HELEN
Hey.

CHAMP
Sorry, it was last call.

HELEN
No, no, no. I don't need another drink. Listen, tell me everything you know about him. Hmm?
(points to Trevor)
Where does he live? Where does he like to hang out? What does he like for breakfast?
(smiles)
What's his name?
INT. CUPPA JAVA - NIGHT

A Single's Group meeting is going on. The regulars are there. Trevor is sitting at the coffee bar.
TINA
Someone told me that if you put a marble in a jar each time you have sex during the first year of a relationship and then take one out each time you have sex after that first year you never run out of marbles.

CLAIRE
It sounds like an urban myth to me, Tina.

TINA
Oh.

CLAIRE
Are you concerned that sexual frequency will subside in a long term relationship?

TINA
No, I'm worried that I didn't get enough during the first year.
Some chuckles from the group.
TINA
What would you say is an average amount?

CLAIRE
Uh, well that varies from couple to couple.

LAURENCE
Ah, and when forced to choose an actual digit of new relationship sexual frequency, our relationship expert said...?

CLAIRE
Well, I don't like the word "average", but in a new relationship I'd guess... eight maybe ten times a week wouldn't be too much of a stretch.
Some mumbles of amazement from the group.
LAURENCE
Eight to ten?!

NICK
The above average test group is now receiving oxygen and unavailable for comment.
Laughs.
CLAIRE
Well, I guess that could be a little high.

TREVOR
What about your new relationship, Claire? You losing your marbles?

CLAIRE
My marbles are none of your business, Trevor.

TREVOR
So it's tell all hour for everyone in here except for the only one who has anything to tell.

LAURENCE
Hey, I resent the accuracy of that statement.


TREVOR
Then go out, you, everyone and exercise your option to have sex.

MIKE
Would that be the telephone option or the inflatable option?
That gets a couple of laughs.
TREVOR
Love is war, you guys, and this room is Switzerland.

NICK
Sounds like someone's not getting any.

TREVOR
Correct sir! Neither are you or anyone else in here, but you all can go get some.
Lots of shaking of heads in the group, except for one. Introduce SAM.
SAM
No, he's got a point. A couple of weeks ago, just to build up my confidence, I enrolled in this class that teaches this technique called "Sure Score", and the things I've seen are mind-blowing.

CLAIRE
Well, it's more like drug free Rohipnol. I wrote an article about it a couple years back. Some of it is pretty disturbing stuff.

SAM
I haven't actually used the Sure Score technique, yet. I figured I could use all the advice I could get then figure out what the right thing was for myself. Some of the tactics are borderline. It involves a lot of mental suggestion and subliminal imagery and sexual innuendo.

TINA
You hypnotize women?

MIKE
Cool!

CLAIRE
Michael.
Trevor looks intrigued.

INT. TAGGERTY'S - JUMP CUT

Trevor and Sam are sitting at a table sharing a couple of beers.
TREVOR
So, you're carrying around a magic wand, right, and yet you're not even the least bit curious as to what happens when you bonk someone over the head with it?

SAM
Well, you know, mostly I'm still trying to figure out how it works.

TREVOR
Trial and error, mi amigo, trial and error.
Trevor points to a beautiful woman alone at the far end of the bar. The woman is wearing a very expensive looking dress and even more expensive jewelry.
TREVOR
Right there.

SAM
Is there a woman behind the jewelry?

TREVOR
Definitely.
Trevor looks at Sam then to the woman then back to Sam.
SAM
What? Now?

TREVOR
No, no, let's wait till we're all a little bit older. Yeah.

SAM
All right.
Sam gets up and walks over to the woman.
SAM
Uh, excuse me?
She slowly turns her head to look at him. She doesn't look impressed.
SAM
I noticed you sitting here by yourself and I knew I had to come and talk to you. I'm Sam.
He offers a handshake. She leaves him hanging.
SAM
I just feel there's this bond between you and I.
OVER BY THE DOOR

Trevor has moved to the door where Champ is checking out peoples' IDs.
TREVOR
Check this out.

CHAMP
Trevor, I'm busy here, okay.

TREVOR
See the guy down there chatting up the talent? See, he's using this technique he learned in some class.
Champ looks over to where Trevor points.
CHAMP
It better be pretty good because he's using it on the Frigid Heiress. That girl's sent many a soldier home in a body bag.

TREVOR
Well, if my boy can conquer Iceland over there I'll train a whole battalion of them. My days on Earth will be numbered.

CHAMP
Wait a minute, I thought your ticket home depended on true love not just one night stands.

TREVOR
The way to a man's heart has very little to do with his stomach.
Sam leaves the woman and starts walking over to Trevor and Champ.
CHAMP
Well, that was pretty quick, buddy. Usually she wrings a drink outta ya before shipping you out.
Sam holds up a napkin with a phone number and a kiss mark on it.
CHAMP
Her number?

TREVOR
Time to find a new roommate. I'm going home.
(to Sam)
That's good work.

SAM
(to Champ)
Nice meeting you.
Champ looks a little dumbfounded as Trevor and Sam exit.

FADE OUT

END OF ACT ONE

ACT TWO

FADE IN:

EXT. CHICAGO STREET - DAY

Trevor is sitting at a bench. He looks around as people pass by. It seems that he's waiting for someone as he checks the time on his pocket watch. He's also holding a small notebook and pencil in his other hand.
HELEN
Hey, Trevor!
Trevor looks up and sees Helen jogging towards him. She's wearing a spandex jogging outfit.
TREVOR
Hey.

HELEN
Hey. You live around here?

TREVOR
Not for long, no.
She joins him on the bench.
HELEN
(noticing his notebook)
What's with the chart?

TREVOR
Uh, we take our neighbourhood watch very seriously around here. You're not in here. Some fitness kick you got goin'?

HELEN
Nah, it's a new route. What, are you protecting the neighbourhood from psychotic joggers?

TREVOR
Just doing my job.

HELEN
Yeah?

TREVOR
Yeah.

(dog bark)
A tubby man dressed in a purple jogging suit is out on a run with his dog. This is the guy Trevor's been waiting for. Of course the man doesn't know that.
TREVOR
Hey Big Man. One more time around, all right.

PURPLE JOGGER
(huffing and puffing)
What? Why?

TREVOR
Two hundred calories isn't reason enough? Let's go! Feel the burn, purple man!
The man and his dog disappear around a corner.
HELEN
That a friend of yours.

TREVOR
Just may be, yeah. So, what's the upside of jogging, by the way? Near as I can see it's just an excuse to cruise the park in too little clothing.

HELEN
Oh, spandex a little to risqué for you?

TREVOR
No, I was actually referring to Cannon Ball Run over there.
(she laughs)
He needs to put more clothes on.

HELEN
Well, I'm actually training for a marathon.

TREVOR
Yeah?

HELEN
Yeah.

TREVOR
It's a myth, the marathon. No one actually ran the whole thing.

HELEN
Oh, really?

TREVOR
The ancient Greeks?

HELEN
Uh-huh?

TREVOR
Cheated. Stashed the horses outside the palace. Gave them a few extra hours of personal time.

HELEN
Hmm. Which they used for...?

TREVOR
The usual: making baklava, building wooden horses, deflowering the...
They look at each other for a moment. (Man! She has clearest blue eyes I ever did see!)
TREVOR
...flowers.

HELEN
Oh. Dedicated guys those messengers, huh?
There's a moment of silence as they look at each other. Then it looks like they're about to kiss but Trevor hears some dogs barking and sees something behind her.
TREVOR
Boom.

HELEN
(amusingly surprised)
What...
She thought they were going to kiss. She's smiling but she's puzzled. She turns to see what's he's looking at. The Purple Jogger and his dog have run into a lady and her dog. They start a conversation. Pleased with the results, Trevor writes something down in his notebook.
LADY
Oh, nice doggie.
(pets his dog)
What's his name?

PURPLE JOGGER
Rex. What's yours?

LADY
Trixie. She's a good girl.
The new couple walk by Trevor and Helen. Helen looks at Trevor then the couple as they walk by. She's still smiling but doesn't understand what just happened. Trevor notices something written on Helen's hand.
TREVOR
Locker combination?

HELEN
No.
(show her hand)
Look familiar?
(in a flirtatious manner)
It's your address.
They look at each other for a moment. She obviously wants him. He's obviously trying to control himself.
TREVOR
Look, I--I got to go shower. Hopefully my roommate used up all the hot water by now.

HELEN
(disappointed)
Ohh.
Gets up and starts walking away.
TREVOR
I'll see you around.

HELEN
Okay.

TREVOR
Bye, bye.

HELEN
Okay. Bye.

TREVOR
See ya.
INT. CHAMP & TREVOR'S APARTMENT - JUMP CUT

The front door opens and Champ enters. There's a post-it on the door. He takes it, reads it, and looks very happy at what he's read. He takes a seat and looks at the note once more. He takes a very happy sigh then smells the post-it. Trevor appears behind him and nearly gives him a heart attack.
TREVOR
Starts with post-it notes, before you know it you're onto the hard stuff. Glue sticks, felt pens.

CHAMP
God almighty.

TREVOR
Finally! Some respect.

CHAMP
It's an invitation.

TREVOR
Mm-hmm. Hoping for a little eau de upstairs neighbour. You gonna thump her melons?

CHAMP
Thump her melons? Who are you? Anthony Michael Hall?

TREVOR
Well, I guess that's a no. If you don't get busy soon, we're use you to appease the volcano gods.
INT. CLAIRE'S TOWNHOUSE - NIGHT

The doorbell is ringing. Claire, who hasn't finished dressing yet (she has no blouse on) comes to answer the door.
CLAIRE
You're a bit early there, tiger.
She opens the door.
TREVOR
Rrr-rar! Sorry pumpkin pie, traffic was light. If you need to finish getting dressed I can watch.
Claire walks away to a back room. Trevor enters and makes his way to the living room and takes a seat on the couch.
CLAIRE (O.S.)
Trevor, it is not a good time. I am running late, as it is.

TREVOR
You said I was early.

CLAIRE (O.S.)
You are early. I'm late. Wait a minute. You are neither early or late. What you are is... unexpected. Uninvited.

TREVOR
Under appreciated.

CLAIRE (O.S.)
Undeterred.

TREVOR
Unflappable.
Claire enters the living room wearing a very lovely fur trimmed top.
CLAIRE
Unctuous.

TREVOR
Underwear-less.

CLAIRE
Uncle, okay. Trevor, why are you here?
She pours herself a glass of wine then walks over to where Trevor is sitting.
TREVOR
I need your advice.

CLAIRE
(sighs) I'm closed.

TREVOR
You know, I bet the observation deck at the Sears Tower is still open.

CLAIRE
For introspection or this just a veiled threat to throw yourself off?

TREVOR
Which ever gets your undivided attention. Throwing myself off would be pointless. Immortal, remember?

CLAIRE
Oh yes, of course.
(gestures for him to get his legs of her couch)
Move. Move. Move!
He moves his feet off the couch and onto her coffee table.
CLAIRE
(sits down)
Again please move the feet.
He complies.
CLAIRE
Look, Trevor...

TREVOR
Yes.

CLAIRE
If you are seriously asking for my advice I am more than willing to listen.

TREVOR
Here's the thing, I'm supposed to be making it possible for people, present company un-excepted, to fornicate like pornstars. Meanwhile, I'm getting forearms like Popeye...

CLAIRE
(standing up)
Okay, clearly you are not being serious.

TREVOR
Dumbbells. Dumbbell curls.

CLAIRE
What are you, handcuffed to your sofa?
She disappears for a moment.
TREVOR
I wish. This is my worst drought in several thousand years. Do you know how hard it is to have women throwing themselves at your feet and for you to be unable to accommodate them?
She returns holding two pairs of shoes.
CLAIRE
There's a prescription for that now.
(holds up the shoes)
Here, make yourself useful. Which shoes?

TREVOR
It's all Zeus' fault. Gallivanting around the country like some horny version of Manimal. One bad experience with Catherine the Great, cuts the rest of us off. Red pumps.
Claire puts on the black pumps.
CLAIRE
Look, Alex is gonna be here any...
(the doorbell rings)
...now. And we're meeting people for dinner in half an hour.

TREVOR
That's nice. Where are you going?

CLAIRE
Shut up.

TREVOR
All right
Claire goes to open the door. Trevor takes off his jacket, gets the glass of wine on the coffee table and makes himself comfortable on the couch.
ALEX
Hey.

CLAIRE
Hey. How are you?

ALEX
Good.
They kiss. Then Alex notices Trevor on the couch.
ALEX
Trevor?

TREVOR
Hey. We're having a little heart to, uh, cardio-muscle.

ALEX
Great.

CLAIRE
So, Trevor was just leaving. You ready?

TREVOR
Yeah, I was just gonna wander around. Do some dumbbell curls.

ALEX
(to Claire)
Hey, look if you need to stick around, we can do dinner another time.

TREVOR
You're a good egg, DeMuoy.

CLAIRE
No, no, Alex, it's fine, really.

ALEX
No, if you're in the middle of counselling...

CLAIRE
No, no. Not in the middle of anything. It's over.
Trevor realizes that Alex knows about his doctor-patient relationship with Claire.
TREVOR
You don't gotta tell me twice.
Trevor gets up, grabs his jacket and heads to the door.
TREVOR
Yeah. All right, kids. So, I don't wanna cramp your style.
Trevor leaves. Claire and Alex are about to kiss when Trevor pops back in.
TREVOR
Shotgun!

CLAIRE
Go away.
INT. COFFEE SHOP - JUMP CUT

Trevor enters. He sees Sam sitting at the counter talking to the waitress, ALICE. She doesn't look real interested in him but listens, politely.
SAM
So he turns to her and says, "If you don't leave right now, you'll have to get a ride with Senator Kennedy.".
She giggles a bit, then returns to her job. Trevor sits next to Sam and notices how he looks at Alice as she walks away.
SAM
She's special.

TREVOR
She rode that school bus, huh? So, you gonna use the magic words?

SAM
No, uh, with Alice I'm going to take Dr. Allen's advice. I'm gonna treat her with respect. Establish common ground. Impress her with my sincerity.

TREVOR
Great. Maybe for those six months she shacks up on the Oasis tour bus, she'll let you dog sit for her. That'd be nice for you, you know. Let's get outta here. I don't wanna be late.
They get up and leave.
SAM
(waves to Alice)
See ya.
She doesn't notice him.

INT. SURE SCORE - JUMP CUT

It looks like an old storage room that's been converted to a class room. There's a portable blackboard at the front of the room, desks in front of it and an American flag in the corner. All the desks are occupied. Two near the back are occupied by Trevor and Sam. The INSTRUCTOR, who's dressed more as a drill sergeant, is walking up as he lectures his class.
INSTRUCTOR
We're gonna go over this and over this until it's a reflex. The three major points of the first meeting: 1) Eye contact. Never break it. Your target's eyes are all you see. 2) Touch. Type this - Don't be afraid to touch her. Be smart. No erogenous zones in the first five to ten minutes but hands, upper arms... her stomach, okay.
There are some giggles from the more nerdy of the students.
INSTRUCTOR (cont'd)
3) Vocabulary. What she doesn't know you're saying is the key. The power of suggestion. Does she like classic movies? Ask her if she wants to see Shaft...
Trevor leans over to Sam.
TREVOR
(whisper)
So you're telling me that these guys get dates?

SAM
(whisper)
Oh yeah. They get more than dates, Trevor.

TREVOR
(whisper)
Can you imagine this stuff in the hands of non-repulsive men.

SAM
(whisper)
Hey!

TREVOR
(whisper)
Oh, no offense.

NERDY STUDENT
Shhh.
INT. HALLWAY TO CHRIS' APARTMENT - DAY

Champ is sliding a note underneath Chris' door. Then he hears someone clearing their throat behind him. He looks up and it's her.
CHRIS
(smiling)
Can I help you?

CHAMP
(in his Shakespearean voice)
Ahem, my lady, I humbly request the honour of your presence at my table tomorrow evening.

CHRIS
Ooh.

CHAMP (cont'd)
I would be pleased should you find yourself at liberty to attend.

CHRIS
Bitchin'! And why don't you drop by for a couple of brewskies before we chow.

CHAMP
T'would be my pleasure.
He kisses her hand.
CHRIS
Six thirty?

CHAMP
Six thirty it is.
She giggles a bit as she heads to her door.
CHRIS
(before she enters)
Lancelot.
Champ has a very big smile on his face as he heads to the stairs.

INT. COFFEE SHOP - JUMP CUT

Sam enters. He takes a seat at the counter.
SAM
Alice.

ALICE
Sam. Cappuccino?

SAM
I'm not catching you at a bad time, am I?

ALICE
Bad time?

SAM
Well, I-- I mean, I'm not invading your personal, private space, right? I--I was just wondering, I just got these tickets from work, uh, it's sort of a last minute kinda thing and, well, I know how much we both like music and they're for the symphony and I thought maybe you'd like to come... tonight... to the concert.
(awkward pause)
I think it's Mozart.

ALICE
(trying to think up an excuse)
Sam, you know I'd really love to but, um...
(looks at her co-worker)
I already have plans tonight. See, Donna and I are going out.
Sam looks devastated. It was such an obvious lie.
ALICE
She just broke up with her boyfriend and she's not taking it real well, so...

SAM
I'm sorry to hear that. Maybe some other time.

ALICE
Yeah, sure.

SAM
See ya.
Sam exits.

INT. CUPPA JAVA - NIGHT

It's the end of a Singles' Group meeting. The room is emptying out.
CLAIRE
Bye, guys.
The room is just about empty as Trevor walks up to Claire. He gets half-way to her and stops when from the doorway Alex calls out.
ALEX
Hey, Sparky.

CLAIRE
Oh. You have no idea how happy I am Trevor just heard you call me that.
Alex walks right past Trevor and gives Claire a big kiss.
TREVOR
Wow, you know what Big Al, Sparky and I were just about to be in the middle of something, so...

CLAIRE
(ignoring Trevor)
You know, I read your article today about the blind woman that won the lottery.

ALEX
You didn't think it was too sad?

CLAIRE
No, I cried.

ALEX
You did?

CLAIRE
Yeah.

TREVOR
You know what kids, I'd love to stick around but I promised a couple of skate buffs that I would (does a spray can sound) tag a few L-stops. Wanna come along? No.
Trevor exits leaving the couple to their lovey-dovey stuff.

EXT. OUTSIDE CUPPA JAVA - JUMP CUT

Sam is leaning by the door when Trevor comes out.
SAM
Hey, Trevor.

TREVOR
Hey, Kreskin. Missed you in the big funhouse tonight.

SAM
Well, I wasn't really in the mood. I asked Alice out. It didn't go particularly well.

TREVOR
Of course it didn't. That's what you get for believing to Dr. Claire Allen. Time to use those magic words.

SAM
Yeah, I don't know about that, Trevor.

TREVOR
Don't know about what?

SAM
Well, it occurs to me that, the Sure Score thing, it may not be quite honest.

TREVOR
(laughing) Honest. Of course it's not honest. You don't understand the concept of the early stages of a relationship. People lie, people forget their friends, people break the Hippocratic Oath. All right, you see Carmen Diaz in a keg line, what's the first thing you do?

SAM
Rub my eyes?

TREVOR
You give her a little harmless truth enhancement.

SAM
Truth enhancement?

TREVOR
Sure score! You tell her you cried at the end of Charlotte's Web...

SAM
I did cry at the end of Charlotte's Web.

TREVOR
You leave the word "assistant" off your job title. You break the ice. She'll get to know the real you later, all right.
(rubs his shoulders)
I'm freezing. I'm going in to get my coat. When I come out, you're in that coffee shop.
Trevor goes to re-enter the building.
TREVOR
Sure Score, baby!
INT. CUPPA JAVA - JUMP CUT

Trevor enters. He hears the moaning of a woman.
(woman moaning)

TREVOR
Somebody order a pizza?
From behind a couch, Claire sits up. She's naked and on top of Alex. She quickly covers up her breasts.
CLAIRE
Oh my god.
She grabs her blouse to cover herself up. Then, Alex's head appears from behind the couch. He doesn't look to pleased about the interruption. Trevor, also, looks not too pleased about what he's seen.

FADE OUT

END OF ACT TWO

ACT THREE

FADE IN:

INT. COFFEE SHOP - NIGHT

The coffee shop is closed for the night. Alice is on her way out when Sam walks in.
ALICE
Aren't you suppose to be at the, uh, the symphony? I mean, those tickets, right?

SAM
Shhh.
He steps close to her. He begins to talk in a very subdued manner, almost hypnotic.
SAM
I feel like there's this bond between you and I. I mean, a bond. You felt something like that before, right? Maybe when you were a child you had stuffed animals, right?

ALICE
Sure. Tons.

SAM
Okay. And you had a favourite.

ALICE
Yeah, a bunny.

SAM
A bunny.

ALICE
Frederique. I had this french thing.

SAM
I had this demented mouse thing. It was really a pillow with the ears and eyes and a tail and that was it. George. Like Frederique. You'd whisper your secrets and desires into his ears. You buried your nose in his downy belly and you wrapped yourself around him and you slept with him and it made you feel good.
(touches her cheek)
Safe.
(looks deeply into her eyes)
And protected, right?
She nods.
SAM
That's all I want you to feel.
CUT TO BLACK

We here the sounds of laughter then the sound of a woman breathing hard.
WOMAN'S VOICE (O.S.)
(still breathing hard)
Right there. Right there. Right there.

(buzz, buzz, buzz...)
INT. TREVOR'S BEDROOM - DAY

Trevor's eyes open. He's lying in bed and he looks confused until he realizes that the woman's voice is part of the song playing on his clock radio. Disappointed (and a little pissed off that it was just a dream) he turns off the radio and stares at the ceiling.
(Trevor's sigh)
EXT. FIRE ESCAPE - JUMP CUT

Trevor steps onto the fire escape in his robe and holding a dumbbell. He starts doing dumbbell curls. He looks down on the street and sees Helen jogging towards him. She's dressed in another sexy and revealing jogging outfit.
TREVOR
(looks up to the sky)
Why couldn't you have sent me back to Earth during Victorian times?

HELEN
Trevor!

TREVOR
Helen!

HELEN
Hey, whatcha you got under there?

TREVOR
Strangely enough, it's a Deputy Dog costume.

HELEN
Hmmm, kinky.

TREVOR
Training for the marathon?

HELEN
Yeah, but the real kind, like the Greeks. I've stashed my Pinto and I'm looking to make some baklava.

TREVOR
See now, it sounds dirty when you say it.

HELEN
See, it's supposed to. You gonna invite me up?

TREVOR
You're welcome here any time, I just would have to kick out an entire battalion of girl scouts first.
(she laughs)
So many badges, so little time.

HELEN
Rain check then.

TREVOR
Rain check.

HELEN
See ya.

TREVOR
See ya.
Trevor watches as Helen jogs off. Then pretends to blow his brains out with his finger. He looks up to the sky and shakes his head.

EXT. CHICAGO STREET - DAY

Claire is on her way to the office as usual. Her briefcase and bag of donuts in one hand and her coffee in the other. There is one thing different about her this morning. She looks very happy, in fact she's singing.
CLAIRE
(singing)
I wanna be yours, pretty baby
Yours and yours alone
I'm here to tell ya, honey...
Trevor appears from out of nowhere and begins walking with her.
TREVOR
Hey, Sparky. If you're gonna insist on doing embarrassing things in public, you might want to think about these fun little inventions called "locks".

CLAIRE
Should I lob self-deprecating, set-up lines to you, or would you prefer just to riff on your own.

TREVOR
You know what, you've given me more than enough material, but now that I've seen you naked, my repertoire has expanded, immensely.

CLAIRE
(groans)
You haven't seen anything, Trevor.

TREVOR
I saw your mole.

CLAIRE
Okay, fine. What, are you here to mock me?

TREVOR
No, I'm actually here because I haven't gotten an apology from you.
They stop walking.
CLAIRE
An apology?

TREVOR
Yeah, you know, starts off with "I'm sorry" and then it goes on to explain your understanding of the offense in question.

CLAIRE
Offense in question?

TREVOR
Yeah.

CLAIRE
Look, Trevor...
(sighs)
I am embarrassed that you walked in on Alex and me and I guess I am sorry that it happened, but I don't see where an apology comes in. Love is about heat, right? Who told me that? Oh wait, wait! I remember. It was you! Okay? Well, I got the heat now, Trevor. You of all people should be happy for me. And I can't understand why you're not thanking your lucky stars that you're one bead closer to getting me out of your life.

TREVOR
(claps)
Impressive speech. Really, but that's not actually why I'm here. I was wondering why you told Clark Kent all about my medical history.
Claire tries to give an explanation.
CLAIRE
Well, Alex thought... and I didn't want Alex to think that you and I... in any... I...
But she can't because she realizes she was wrong.
TREVOR
That's a hell of an apology.
Trevor turns and walks away.

INT. CHAMP & TREVOR'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

Champ is busy over the stove preparing dinner for his big date with Chris. Trevor is sitting close by giving him advice. Of course, Champ doesn't want it.
TREVOR
Eye contact is key and your words, you want to plant a few things that have a little, you know, like innuendo, maybe tell her a sailor story. Something where you can possibly mention knob polishing. Ask her to swab your deck.

CHAMP
How many times do I have to tell you I do not want your help.

TREVOR
And don't be afraid to touch her. You'll be my minion, my love soldier.

CHAMP
Look, are you sure you're gonna be gone when I get back. I know you're interested but this is not a spectator sport.

TREVOR
Like there'd be anything to watch, anyway.
INT. HALLWAY TO CHAMP & TREVOR'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

Champ is escorting Chris to the door.
CHAMP
All right, I've never done this before, okay, so if it's awful just try and humor me.

CHRIS
All right.
Champ opens the door. He cannot believe what he sees inside.

INT. CHAMP & TREVOR'S APARTMENT - CONTINUOUS

Chris and Champ walk in. Neither of them can believe what they're seeing. Sultry music is playing. The lights are low. Candles are everywhere. A red light is flashing in the background. The room looks like it could be used in a scene of a porno movie.
MUSIC
The look of love
Is in your eyes
A look your smile can't disguise...


CHAMP
(to himself)
Trevor.

MUSIC (cont'd)
The look of love
Is saying so much more
Than just words could ever...
Chris walks over to the dining table. A bottle of wine is chilling in a bucket and there's a heart-shaped tray of raw oysters on the table.

CHRIS
Oysters?
Chris looks disgusted. You can tell she is turned off by this environment. She turns to Champ and gives him an accusing look. Champ just stands there. He still can't believe all this is happening.

INT. TAGGERTY'S - JUMP CUT

Trevor is working behind the bar. Alex walks in.
TREVOR
Hey, there he is. Managed to unpeel yourself, did ya?

ALEX
Just for a bit.
He takes a seat at the bar. There is a definite unfriendly tone in Trevor's voice.
TREVOR
How often you guys been going at it 'cause, lately, Claire's been glowing like Bacchus on a new bottle of Grappa.
Opens a bottle of beer for Alex.
ALEX
Can't complain. What about you? Guy like you has to have something going on, somewhere.

TREVOR
Are you kidding me? Gals love to take the mentally ill home to mom.

ALEX
Come on. All work and no play makes Trevor...
Trevor pulls a knife from under the bar and sticks it into the cutting board.
ALEX
Hostile.

TREVOR
You ever think she might be faking it? Sixty percent of women do.

ALEX
Look, Trevor, I came down here because Claire and I are in a relationship. You are a friend of hers, so I thought...

TREVOR
Who's term is that? "Friend"? Yours or hers? Because I know relationship is definitely hers.

ALEX
What I'm trying to say is...

TREVOR
She wants you to treat her psychotic hang-around like a regular guy instead of the whacked out sap that you see me as.

ALEX
You know, frankly I don't give a damn whether you believe you're Cupid or Eleanor Roosevelt or an overripe tangerine. All you really do is come off as a poor jealous bastard.

TREVOR
Jealous?

ALEX
Yeah.
Trevor chuckles at that.
ALEX
You don't like me. Fine, fine. Actually that-- that makes perfect sense but don't go pretending it's because I know your mental history. See, what's crawling up you ass has nothing to do with me except that I'm the guy getting what you want.

TREVOR
Which is what?

ALEX
Oh, you think about it. I'm going home and crawl into bed with my girlfriend.
Alex exits. Trevor takes his frustration out on the cutting board by pulling out the knife that's still sticking there and sticking it back again.

FADE OUT

END OF ACT THREE

ACT FOUR

FADE IN:

INT. TAGGERTY'S - SAME NIGHT

Trevor is still working behind the bar when Champ storms in. He's carrying the tray of oysters.
TREVOR
She allergic to shellfish?

CHAMP
I believe these are yours.
He drops the tray down onto the bar in front of Trevor.
CHAMP (cont'd)
You seemed to have left them in the middle of my dinner. Come on, you remember. Mine was the one not designed to make me look like I ordered my life from the Titillating Tidbits catalogue.

TREVOR
There are some good items in that catalogue. There's the edible handcuffs that make for tasty bondage.

CHAMP
You know what? Chris was a little put off by walking into the world according to Hefner. I tried to tell her it was all the doings of my misguided roommate but somehow that didn't go over very well.

TREVOR
Excuse me for trying to do a friend a favour.

CHAMP
I was doing just fine, Trevor!

TREVOR
You're doing great. I love that chastity belt on you.

CHAMP
And you know how much I appreciate fashion advice from lunatics.
They glare at each other for a moment. Then Champ turns and leaves.

INT. CHAMP & TREVOR'S APARTMENT - JUMP CUT

The apartment is still the way Champ and Chris found it. Trevor is sitting at the dining table flipping through a book and enjoying the untouched wine. Trevor continues flipping through the book until he sees something he likes. He smiles then carefully rips out the page he's looking at.

INT. SURE SCORE - JUMP CUT

The instructor and the rest of the class are listening to a student's results.
NERDY STUDENT
Last night, at the Sugar Shack, this former Miss Teen Fitness paid me for a lap dance.
He gets a bunch of "all rights" and thumbs up from the class.
INSTRUCTOR
Excellent. Congratulations my friend. You dogs are on a role! Anyone else a winner?

SAM (O.S.)
Yep. I'm the big winner this week.
He's sitting at a desk. As he begins his story there is a certain sadness to his voice.
SAM
There was this woman that I liked... really liked. Hot body. Great face. I worked her, boy I pulled out every trick in the book. Tossed out all the catch phrases. Made eye contact.
(stand up)
That's right, comrades, I got her thinking about sex.
(that gets a positive response from the class)
This morning when I woke up, her limbs were wrapped around me. But there was a problem.
(pauses)
I couldn't look her in the eye. You know why? Cause I could never be with someone who would fall for someone as pathetic and desperate as me.
Sam turns and exits.

INT. CHAMP & TREVOR'S APARTMENT - JUMP CUT

Trevor is sitting at the dining table, thinking. The wine bottle is nearly empty. After a moment of contemplation, he grabs the phone and dials.

INT. CLAIRE'S APARTMENT - CONTINUOUS

The phone rings a couple of times before the machines picks up.
CLAIRE
(answering machine)
Hi, it's Claire. Leave a message.

BEEP
As Trevor speaks the camera pans over from answering machine over to the dining room where there is evidence that a romantic dinner has occurred. Neither Claire nor her date is in the room. There is, however, a trail of clothes.
TREVOR (over the phone)
Hey, Dr. Allen, I just thought you should know I'm planning a breakthrough. I have found a lovely young lady with whom I feel a deep emotional connection.
INT. CHAMP & TREVOR'S APARTMENT - CONTINUOUS

The lovely young lady he's referring to is the picture on the wine bottle.
TREVOR (cont'd)
Not only will this scratch a very deep itch, it sets certain people's minds at ease on a number of issues.
(takes a drink from the bottle)
It makes you today's big winner.
INT. CLAIRE'S TOWNHOUSE - CONTINUOUS

The trail of clothes have led to the bedroom.
TREVOR (over the phone)
A full three hours of personal bliss and I am cured. That's right. No more immortality, no more beads, no more Cupid.
INT. CHAMP & TREVOR'S APARTMENT - CONTINUOUS
TREVOR (cont'd)
End of delusion and thanks to you. So, I thought I should call and say congratulations.
He hangs up and takes another drink from his bottle. Then there's a knock at the door. He goes over and answers it. It's Helen and as usual she's looking very sexy.
HELEN
Hey.
Trevor looks surprised.
HELEN
I've got my rain check.

TREVOR
Come on in.
INT. CHAMP & TREVOR'S APARTMENT - JUMP CUT

Champ enters. He still looks upset about what happened earlier in the night. He hears giggling coming from Trevor's bedroom (it's Trevor and Helen). He can't believe Trevor's getting lucky while his romantic life is in shambles. Then he notices something pinned to the post. It's the page that Trevor tore out of a book. It's some kind of poem or sonnet. At the bottom of the page is a little drawing Trevor drew. It's a picture of a stick man going up some stairs to a stick woman's window. Champ smiles.

EXT. FIRE ESCAPE - JUMP CUT

Champ is on the fire escape below Chris' window. Reading off the page he recites the sonnet in a very romantic fashion.
CHAMP
Like the night of cloudless climbs starry skies
And all that's best of dark and bright
Meet in her aspect and her eyes
The following cut scenes occur with no sound except for Champ's sonnet, which is a voice over.

INT. CHAMP & TREVOR'S APARTMENT - JUMP CUT

Trevor, wearing only his shorts, is at the fridge grabbing some items which include strawberries and chocolate syrup. With his arms full of food he closes the fridge with his foot. He turns to return to his room but stops when he sees Helen standing in the door way. All she has on is her slip. Needless to say, Trevor likes what he sees.
CHAMP (V.O. - cont'd)
Thus mellows to that tender light
Which to heaven that gaudy day denies
One shade the more, one ray the less
EXT. RESTAURANT - JUMP CUT

We can see inside through the window. Sam is being shown to his table by a pretty waitress. She hands him a menu then smiles as she helps put his napkin on his lap. Sam smiles back. There could be something there. Who knows. But what is certain is Sam isn't going to use the Sure Score method ever again.
CHAMP (V.O. - cont'd)
Had half impaired the nameless grace
Which waves in every raven tress
Or softly lightens o'er her face
Where thoughts serenely sweet express how pure
INT. CLAIRE'S TOWNHOUSE - JUMP CUT

A warm glow from the fireplace flickers in the background as Claire and Alex kiss.
CHAMP (V.O. - cont'd)
How dear their dwelling place
EXT. FIRE ESCAPE - JUMP CUT

Back on the fire escape, Champ has slowly made his way up to Chris' window.
CHAMP
and on that cheek, and o'er that brow
Chris appears and sits on the window sill. She's smiling. Champ sits next to her. Looking deep into her eyes and gently caressing her cheek he continues his sonnet.
CHAMP (cont'd)
So soft... so calm, yet eloquent
The smiles that win, the tints that glow
But tell of days of goodness spent
A mind at ease with all below
A heart whose love is innocent
He leans in and gives her a very nice kiss.

INT. CHAMP & TREVOR'S APARTMENT - JUMP CUT

The phone is ringing.
(ring)

HELEN (O.S.)
Oh no.
The answering machine picks up just as Trevor exits his bedroom and goes to the phone. He doesn't look to pleased about being interrupted in the middle of his fun.
TREVOR (on the machine)
We can't take your call at the moment but if you leave your name, number, educational background, preferred pet, titles of the last three CDs you purchased and the name of the celebrity you most resemble, you'll be glad you did.

BEEP

TREVOR
This thing have a do not disturb button?

CLAIRE (on the phone)
Trevor, it's Claire. Listen, a couple of things, one, I wanted to apologize about what I told Alex. That was wrong of me.
INT. CLAIRE'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS

Alex is sitting up and under the covers. Claire, who's in her robe, is sitting at the foot of her bed on the phone.
CLAIRE (cont'd)
Two, regarding your call, I think it's a great thing, you know, finding a girlfriend might be exactly what you need.
INT. CHAMP & TREVOR'S APARTMENT - CONTINUOUS

Trevor's expression has changed. Early he had an irritated grin from being interrupted, now he looks more upset. From what I'm not sure.
CLAIRE (on the phone)
As for this cured thing, I'll believe it when I see it. And I will see you again. But this is definitely a positive step.
INT. CLAIRE'S BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS

Alex crawls over to Claire and starts kissing her neck.
CLAIRE (cont'd)
Oh, and Trevor, remember to lock the door. Bye.
INT. TREVOR'S BEDROOM - JUMP CUT

Helen is sitting on the bed. Trevor is sitting at the foot of the bed. He looks depressed.
HELEN
Well, I don't know who that was on the phone, but she definitely took the wind out of your sail.
Trevor doesn't answer.
HELEN
Hey, it's not such a big deal...

TREVOR
(cut her off suddenly)
It wasn't her. It's not about her. I just... I really...
(sighs)
I need to go home, okay. I have to go home, that's what I have to do.

HELEN
You are home.

TREVOR
What?!

HELEN
I thought this was your home.

TREVOR
This is not my home. This is not my home!
(stands up and starts gesturing)
This is Chicago! You can't have sex! You can't drink the wine! Chemicals all over the fruit!
Trevor sits back down. He looks very upset, his eyes are starting to get teary. Helen doesn't understand what's wrong but realizes she should leave.
HELEN
(starts gathering her things)
Okay, look, Trevor, I don't know what's going on.

TREVOR
I have absolutely no reason to be here.

HELEN
You know, frankly...

TREVOR
There's no reason for me to be here.

HELEN
I don't know if I understand this, really.

TREVOR
You know, I can't.
Trevor's face is moist from tears. Helen is standing at the bedroom door.
TREVOR
(looks at her)
I can't do this, okay. I have to go home.
There's a moment of awkward silence.
HELEN
Okay, well, you know, thanks.
She exits. Trevor continues to sit there looking very upset.

INT. CLAIRE'S BEDROOM - JUMP CUT

We see the fireplace. We hear heavy breathing.
ALEX (O.S.)
Claire?

CLAIRE (O.S.)
Yeah?

ALEX (O.S.)
Put it down.
Claire and Alex are in bed under the covers. They're in a spooning position with Claire on the outside.
CLAIRE
What? Oh, come on. I'll tell you why they called me Sparky as a kid.

ALEX
(interested)
Oh.
Alex turns over so that Claire is laying on top of him.
CLAIRE
Okay. Now, no one hears this. When I was little, I loved jolting my tongue with a 9 volt battery.

ALEX
(chortles)
That's it?!

CLAIRE
Yeah, I loved the tingle.

ALEX
Yeah?
(they both laugh a little)
Now tell me, what could possibly replace the thrill of a 9 volt battery now?

CLAIRE
Well, I'd have to say it's you.
(she kisses him)
You know.
She starts kissing him and kissing him. He's trying to say something.
ALEX
(in between kisses)
Claire? Mmmm. Mmmm. Claire. Mmmm. Claire?

CLAIRE
What?

ALEX
(in a tired voice)
I can't do this again.
He turns over and closes his eyes.
CLAIRE
(sigh)
You know, this really is the best part of sex. Afterwards.

ALEX
Mm-hmm.
Claire's tone becomes very sensual almost hypnotic.
CLAIRE
(softly into Alex's ear)
I just feel like there's this bond between you and me. And this bond, it's happened to you before, right? I mean, you lie there. Enveloped by your warm bed.
Alex's eyes open. Claire's breathing gets a little harder as she continues.
CLAIRE
The soft, silky sheets caress you. And every time you move, the sensations sort of explode.
Alex turns over so that Claire is laying on top of him. He looks very aroused.
CLAIRE
And Alex, that's just what I want you to feel.
They start to kiss very passionately and pull the covers over themselves.

EXT. ON TOP OF A BUILDING - JUMP CUT

Trevor is sitting on the ledge, looking out at the Chicago night. I don't really know how to describe his expression so I'll let a picture do it for me.

FADE TO BLACK

THE END