ANNOUNCER AVERY CHIP GIRLS GREGORY JP KEVIN LISA MORRISON NOAH POLICE_OFFICER RADIO RUTH SAM TAYLOR TOM

ANNOUNCER
Alright, folks. Let�s hear it for the Springfield
bulldogs
TAYLOR
Hi, mom
KEVIN
This is all I could find at Finnigan�s
LISA
Thank you. You can set that down there, Kevin.
We�ll take care of it.
LISA
You two have been such a huge help.
NOAH
Coming!
NOAH
This is all the ice they had left in the cafeteria.
LISA
 That�s perfect. I think we�re all set.
I can�t thank you three enough. So, how was the
pep rally?
NOAH
It was great
TAYLOR
 Yeah.
NOAH
Your daughter�s a star.
LISA
Well� I�m not saying anything, but there�s
someone here looking for their future star as well,
Noah. A scout from Ohio just checked in a few
minutes ago.
NOAH
No pressure, huh?
LISA
What�re you all up to now?
TAYLOR
Well�JP�s having a party at his house. It�s just
like a little after pep rally party.
LISA
A party on a school night? -
And your mom�s ok with it?
KEVIN
Oh, I�m not going. Not really my crowd.
TAYLOR
Kevin, are you saying that I�m not your
crowd? That hurts.
KEVIN
I don�t know Taylor. I don�t think being the weird
kid you grew up with really warrants an invite to the
cool kid party.
TAYLOR
You�re not weird and I definitely think you should
go.
TAYLOR
Right, Noah?
NOAH
Oh, no, no. Yeah, of course.
LISA
Well�technically I didn�t say yet whether you
could go.
TAYLOR
We�ll go together and you won�t have anything
to worry about.
LISA
Alright. If Kevin goes with you, you can go.
I need someone responsible there.
NOAH
 come on
TAYLOR
Please
KEVIN
KEVIN
Fine, yeah. Yeah.
TAYLOR
Yay!
LISA
Alright, here ya go.
TAYLOR
Thank you
LISA
And what do I need?
TAYLOR
Uh�you need the address and my booty in the
house before 11?
LISA
She can remember that, but never where her
retainer is.
KEVIN
CHIP
Lisa
LISA
Chip, you made it!
CHIP
Oh, come on. Like I�d miss your first booster
event as PTA president.
CHIP
And you must be Noah.
NOAH
I am. Nice to meet you.
CHIP
I�ve been watching you play. Very impressive
NOAH
Yeah, appreciate it.
LISA
Well, have fun! 11:30 ok? For tonight. -
You be sure to ask your mom too.
NOAH
I will.
TAYLOR
Goodbye, mom.
LISA
Bye
NOAH
It was good to meet you
CHIP
Is Sam around? I�d love to share some good
news with him.
LISA
Is a certain coach at a certain college finally
retiring?
CHIP
Well�he�s been there since Sam and I played.
It�s about time we got some new blood.
LISA
Say that to Sam and he�ll probably tackle you
with joy. Come on, come in.
CHIP
TOM
You know I�d rather it be a stadium, but hey�
I like anything with my name on it. Even if it is
the library.
LISA
Hi, honey. Look who I found
SAM
Chip!
CHIP
Hey
CHIP
What�s up, man?
SAM
I didn�t know you were coming.
CHIP
Yeah, Lisa sent me the invite. I thought maybe the
two of us could talk about a change of scenery for
next season.
CHIP
Unless of course all this recent success just based
on that young QB that your daughter�s dating.
SAM
Well, I wouldn�t say all of it
GREGORY
But, the boy is good.
GREGORY
Gregory Clapp. Just came in from Ohio.
SAM
Sam Clarkson. I�m head coach here at Springfield
and this is my wife -
GREGORY
We�ve been watching you.
GREGORY
What you�ve done at this program has been
impressive. Developing talent like that-
well, that�s no easy feat.
SAM
Yeah, well Noah�he�s a special- he�s a special
kid.
GREGORY
We should talk if you have a minute. I�d love to
hear more.
SAM
Yeah, yeah.
LISA
I am so sorry, Chip
CHIP
It�s ok. These schools come in here and they think
they control everything. But luckily we�re not here
for Noah.
TOM
Tom Reynolds. My son JP�s the starting
running back. More broken tackles than anyone
else in the division.
LISA
Tom is also making a very generous donation to
our new library project.
TOM
Yes, I like to invest in schools that support my
son�s education.
CHIP
I�m listening.
TOM
How about we talk over a drink?
LISA
Hey Avery. Everything ok?
AVERY
Look in here. Keep it out of sight.
LISA
Are those hundreds? How many are in there?
AVERY
I lost track after double digits
LISA
A coach gave you this?
AVERY
The recruiter from Ohio. He said no strings
attached, just to help if Noah wants to visit.
LISA
So, some strings attached
AVERY
I�ve got calls from recruiters about acquisition
fees, and stipends, and agents leaving messages
about percentages. And reporters every day.
LISA
It�s ok. Just�
LISA
Take a breath. I�m sure it�s overwhelming, but
you�re doing great and so is Noah.
AVERY
Everything he�s worked on-
All of this�it�s really happening now.
LISA
I�m so happy for you, but do think twice about
that envelope. A wad of cash under the table�
smells fishy.
AVERY
It�s all legal now, don�t you know? Gregory said
ya know, if he goes to state - this will be huge
exposure and with all the new laws-
Well, this will be security for his future
LISA
Well, keep it under wraps just for now. Just in
case.
AVERY
Finnigan found the bar again, I see
LISA
Can�t keep him away from it.
LISA
Come on. Let�s go inside and make sure this boy�s
club hasn�t made too much of a mess of our hard
work.
KEVIN
I just thought maybe I could get your number or
something -
GIRLS
KEVIN
Yeah, no. Of course not�
GIRLS
TAYLOR
Hey
TAYLOR
What was that all about?
KEVIN
Nothing, it�s stupid. I�m stupid
TAYLOR
 Ok, I�ve known you since you were
like five. I promise you�re anything, but stupid.
KEVIN
Melissa is my lab partner for AP bio and I was
asking her if she�d wanna meet up to work on the
project and -
TAYLOR
 Oh
KEVIN
Yeah.
TAYLOR
Maybe that was kind of stupid talking about school
at a party.
KEVIN
TAYLOR
It�s kind of stupid.
KEVIN
Yeah
KEVIN
You should go hangout with your friends.
I�m good here.
TAYLOR
Ok, I am with my friend.
TAYLOR
How about that?
KEVIN
Fine
JP
Yo. you hitting on my girl?
KEVIN
What?
JP
You asked for my girl�s number at my party. That�s
like a three strike party foul, right?
TAYLOR
He was asking her to study. They�re lab partners.
KEVIN
Yeah
JP
Oh. You think you�re smarter than me?
JP
Who invited this guy, man?
NOAH
Hey, yeah yeah. He�s with me.
NOAH
You good with that?
JP
Yeah. Yeah, totally.
NOAH
Ok.
JP
No, it was just a misunderstanding. Right?
KEVIN
Yeah
JP
Who turned off the music?
KEVIN
Thanks-
NOAH
Yeah
KEVIN
I didn�t mean to cause any problems
NOAH
No, That�s what friends are for, man
KEVIN
You know, I think I�m just gonna go ahead and
head out.
TAYLOR
No, you can�t leave. I drove you.
KEVIN
It�s fine, I can walk. It�s not too far.
KEVIN
Really, I�m ok.
NOAH
You sure?
KEVIN
Thanks again.
TAYLOR
Text me when you get home
LISA
Gregory�s a bit of an ass, huh?
SAM
Why do you say that?
LISA
Really? He was completely rude to everyone
else in the room tonight. I mean, Chip was so
excited to tell you about the job opening up and
Gregory completely shut him out.
SAM
Right.
LISA
Sam. It�s been your dream to coach Cloverdell
since I�ve known you and now that it�s happening
all you can say is right?
LISA
SAM
Ok. It�s not for certain, but�
SAM
If we we finish this season strong-
Gregory wants Noah and I to come to Ohio.
LISA
You wanna move to Ohio?
SAM
Well, I don�t want to move to Ohio. But I mean
come on, this job-
SAM
Come on  guys like me don�t get
this kind of opportunity. It�s one of the best football
programs in the country.
LISA
So, you�re considering it?
LISA
Sam! Our whole life is here. Our home, our
friends, family. I mean Cloverdell�s our alma
matter. We have a plan.
SAM
Right, but I was thinking with Taylor going
away to college next year�why not, huh?
SAM
It�s not like you can�t move jobs easily enough.
LISA
That was a joke, right?
SAM
No. Honey, no. I- I didn�t mean�
LISA
I know what you mean.
SAM
No, no, no. Honey. Look, I�m sorry.
SAM
Hey, I know how much you do. Alright? You�re
an incredible mother and an incredible partner and
you work at the school, the booster committee and
the new library.
LISA
Which you were supposed to talk to the bank
lenders about.
LISA
Sam!
SAM
I�m sorry.
LISA
This is important
SAM
I know, I know. Really, I do. I do. Listen, I love
you. I didn�t mean to underappreciate you.
LISA
I love you and I love our life. I don�t wanna upend
it just because some bigwig blowhorn struts into
town.
SAM
I love our life too
LISA
Everything we�ve ever wanted, hun is right here.
SAM
I know.
SAM
Night
LISA
Goodnight
KEVIN
LISA
Hello?
RUTH
Lisa, I�m so sorry for the late call.
LISA
Everything ok, Ruth?
RUTH
I don�t know. Kevin didn�t come home tonight.
Is he still out with Taylor?
LISA
Uh�hold on
LISA
My car is here. Looks like she got home awhile
ago.
RUTH
He�s not answering his phone. It�s not like him and
he mentioned something about a party. I just have a
feeling something is very wrong.
SAM
 Who�s that?
LISA
It�s Ruth. Kevin never came home. Where are you
going?
SAM
 Finnigan called, locked himself out
of the office. Needs me to let him in.
LISA
It�s 2 a.m.
RUTH
I know, that�s why I�m worried.
LISA
What�s going on?
SAM
I don�t know. I�ll figure it out when I get there,
ok?
LISA
Just wait a second
RUTH
Lisa, are you there?
LISA
Yes. Sorry Ruth. Kevin�s smart. I�m sure he�s just
sleeping the night off somewhere.
RUTH
Maybe. I don�t know.
SAM
I�m gonna go
LISA
No, just don�t leave yet
RUTH
What?
LISA
No, not you Ruth.
Sam!
LISA
Do you need me to come over?
RUTH
Could you? I�m so sorry to ask at this late
hour
LISA
I�ll be right there.
LISA
Thank you. Please call me back if you hear
anything.
LISA
Can you think of anyone else?
Ruth-
RUTH
Hmm?
RUTH
POLICE OFFICER
Ms. Brinkman I am terribly sorry to inform you
that your son, Kevin was found this morning
MR. FINNEGAN
Good morning, everyone. This is principle
Finnegan. If I could have your attention, please
MR. FINNEGAN
Kevin Brinkman passed away last night. I�m sure
you�re all just as shocked as we are by this news
since Kevin was very special to so many people.
I know that this news will take some time to process
so we are cancelling all classes for the day.
MR. FINNEGAN
Guidance counselors, teachers, and staff are all
available if you need it
LISA
Principle Finnegan, hello.
MR. FINNEGAN
Hi, Lisa. I thought we could do a memorial at
the school for the students. Something you could
organize and run
LISA
Of course, absolutely. I�ll send you over some
ideas.
MR. FINNEGAN
You sure it�s not too much on top of the library
funding?
LISA
I can do both
LISA
Everything go ok with the keys last night?
MR. FINNEGAN
 Keys? What do you mean?
LISA
Sam said he lent you his keys for the school
late last night
MR. FINNEGAN
School keys? Wait�when we were with the
boosters? Look, I got another call coming in.
Apparently someone broke into the storage shed
last night
MR. FINNEGAN
send over your ideas when you can. We�ll talk
soon.
SAM
Thanks for coming in guys.
SAM
So�like principal Finnegan said your classes are
cancelled, but we are still able to practice. It�s just
up to the students to decide either way.
NOAH
Everyone from the team seems ok
NOAH
Some of us knew him, but no one was really
that close
SAM
So what�re we thinking, huh? We good to go?
SAM
Put this terrible accident out of our minds. We
can do that?
NOAH
Yeah
NOAH
Yeah, we�ll be ok coach
SAM
Just a walk-thru today, but full dress. Ok?
SAM
Alright, alright. That�s the determination I like to
see.
NOAH
Ok
SAM
I�m proud of you guys
LISA
Hey! There you are. The players didn�t go home?
SAM
Hey, yeah they decided to keep practicing despite
everything going on
SAM
How�s Taylor?
LISA
I brought her home. She�s pretty worked up about
everything. She�ll need some time.
SAM
Yeah, we all are.
SAM
Are you good to keep an eye on her today? I
still have to prep for practice.
LISA
Of course. I can head back soon, but I was talking
to Finnegan earlier and he seemed really confused
when I mentioned last night with the keys
SAM
Yeah, I believe it. He was out all night drinking
with the boosters. I�d be surprised if he remembers
anything. You know how he gets
LISA
So�you don�t think he could�ve been driving
last night, do you?
SAM
Finnegan? Not a chance
SAM
Oh, come on Lisa. How long have we known him?
Hmm? He�d never do something like that
LISA
You said it yourself. You know how he gets.
SAM
Well�he�d never do anything like that
LISA
How drunk was he?
SAM
 Lisa, can we drop this?
SAM
The police will investigate whoever it was that
hit Kevin, alright? Let them handle it
AVERY
Hi, am I interrupting?
SAM
No. No
LISA
Something we could help you with?
AVERY
Well I actually had some agent questions for Sam,
but I just heard the news when I arrived. It can wait
another time.
SAM
Have a seat. You�re here, might as well talk
SAM
See you at home
MR. FINNEGAN
Lisa?
LISA
Principle Finnegan, hi.
MR. FINNEGAN
What�re doing?
LISA
I was looking for you actually.
MR. FINNEGAN
Looking for me on my bumper?
LISA
Oh. Well, Sam and I are thinking about getting a
new car this year. I�m admiring yours.
MR. FINNEGAN
Oh, ok. Look, for the service can you email
me like anything we discussed. I got a lot on my
plate at the moment. Gotta go meet with the
superintendent and figure out how to get a handle
on all of this.
LISA
Of course. A long day after a long night, huh?
Sam told me he met you out late
MR. FINNEGAN
He did? I don�t remember seeing him after the
mixer here
LISA
I�m guessing it was at O�Brien�s or maybe
somewhere after?
MR. FINNEGAN
Look! Lisa, what�s this about?
MR. FINNEGAN
We all have a lot ahead of us. You especially. We
have to be sure that we have everything together.
Can you do that?
LISA
Yes! Absolutely.
MR. FINNEGAN
Good, thank you.
MR. FINNEGAN
Is there anything else?
LISA
No, I�ll be in touch
JP
The cops closed off a section of the road this
morning. Probably where it happened
NOAH
Did you see anything when you went to get
beer?
JP
No, no.
NOAH
Ok
JP
Nothing
JP
Look, if they catch wind of the party they�ll
start asking questions. We have to keep this quiet
NOAH
So what we just-
NOAH
don�t talk to the cops?
JP
Think about it. If they start suspecting one
of us Finnegan will take him off the team.
NOAH
Yeah, but what about my car? I mean those
Lincoln guys really messed with it�
JP
Hey, hey. Don�t worry about that. Don�t
worry about that. All you have to say is that
you don�t know anything.
JP
Which is the truth, right?
NOAH
Mhm, yeah
JP
Hey, we look out for each other, man.
We�re on the same team, on and off the
field.
NOAH
Same team
NOAH
Same team
NOAH
Hey Mrs. Clarkson
LISA
Hey, Noah. How�re you holding up?
NOAH
Umm�
NOAH
I don�t know. It�s all really surreal, but
um� it was nice to have practice though.
Kind of get our minds off it and even though
coach mentioned that they�re postponing
tomorrow�s game to next week now, so�
LISA
Oh, well�I guess that�s for the best. That
won�t affect any of the scouts coming to
watch you, will it?
NOAH
No, I don�t think so. Coach says that with
this in the news there could actually be more
eyes on us now, so.
LISA
Must be a lot of pressure
NOAH
I can manage it
LISA
How are you and your mom? I�
she seemed overwhelmed with everything
that�s going on-
NOAH
Well, you know. She just wants to make
sure that I focus if I want to get into a good
school.
NOAH
I�m actually gonna go study with Taylor
right now, but dinner smells really good
LISA
It�ll be ready soon. I know she�ll be glad
to see you. I can only do so much
NOAH
I�ll do my best. Thanks.
TAYLOR
I can�t believe my dad made you guys
practice today
NOAH
We wanted to. Not having to think about it
so much kind of helps
TAYLOR
Like we should forget about it?
NOAH
You know that�s not what I meant
SAM
Hello, love
LISA
Hey, honey
SAM
So�
SAM
apparently we�re thinking about getting a new
car?
LISA
LISA
He snuck up on me, I had to improvise
SAM
Didn�t we talk about letting the police handle
this?
LISA
Sam, he had no recollection of the whole key
thing. I don�t know if he was driving last night
SAM
 Lisa, we have to trust each other, ok?
Something terrible happened and it�s not our job to
go around accusing people.
SAM
Ok? We have to be there for each other
SAM
Speaking of which. How�s Taylor doing?
LISA
She�s been in her room since we got home.
Noah�s up there with her. He mentioned the game
getting postponed. It�s a good thing, he looks like he
could use a break
SAM
Yeah, it�s gonna be hard but he�ll manage
SAM
But, I have to head back to the school in a few
LISA
Can�t you eat first? I mean, I made a lot of pasta
and I don�t want you sitting at your desk eating a
pile of candy bars.
SAM
No, I really should get back
LISA
It�ll be quick. I�ll go get the kids. It�ll be good to
have a family dinner, ok?
NOAH
jp said he saw cops blocking off part of Phillips
road this morning
TAYLOR
No way
TAYLOR
You didn�t see Kevin when you left the party, did
you?
TAYLOR
Do you think it could�ve happened to him on
Phillips road?
NOAH
I mean, I didn�t see him. Who knows
TAYLOR
Didn�t JP say he needed your car to get more
beer?
NOAH
Ok, yeah. But, let�s not just throw accusations
around. I mean, it could�ve been someone at the
party from out of town. The cops will handle all
that.
NOAH
Ok? It�ll be alright
LISA
NOAH
You�ll be alright
LISA
Dinner you two
LISA
I made my one pot pasta that you like. Extra
cheese.
NOAH
We�re gonna go grab a burger. If that�s ok with
you
LISA
Oh, I was hoping we could all do a family dinner
SAM
Lisa
LISA
Of course. Yes, go out. Have fun. Take your mind
off of everything.
TAYLOR
Thanks, mom. I think I�m ready to be out of
the house.
TAYLOR
Can I take the car?
LISA
I may need it tonight. Noah, where�s your car?
TAYLOR
It�s in the shop. Lincoln kids tagged it. Spray
painted the whole front side.
LISA
Oh, no. Your mother must be so upset
SAM
I can drop them off. I�m headed to the school
anyway.
LISA
Ok. Go on, all of you.
SAM
Alright, love you.
TAYLOR
Thanks, mom
NOAH
Thanks, Mrs. C
LISA
Some crushed red pepper?
RUTH
Uh�this is very sweet, but I really don�t feel
like eating
LISA
Something else I can help with?
RUTH
I don�t know what I�m gonna do.
RUTH
If I manage to fall asleep tonight, it�ll be
tomorrow and he�ll still be gone
RUTH
and people will check on me and do me favors,
but that�ll stop
RUTH
at some point. They�ll tell me to follow my passion
or get back to work or find some fulfillment and is
that gonna do any good? I can�t see it.
RUTH
I�m sorry
RUTH
I know you�re just trying to be kind and your
kindness is being wasted on me
LISA
It is never a waste to help someone who needs it
LISA
and I�m always willing to try
RUTH
Out of all the neighbors I could have, I am so
glad that I have you.
RUTH
and Kevin had Taylor
RUTH
Could you stay with me until I fall asleep? I don�t
want to be alone.
LISA
Of course.
RUTH
I�m worried that I won�t find out what happened
RUTH
I�ve heard about too many missing persons that
were never found or unsolved cases.
LISA
I promise we�ll get to the bottom of this
SAM
Avery, calm down
AVERY
Don�t tell me to calm down.
SAM
He�s always looked out for me in the past. It�ll
be ok
AVERY
I don�t know these people and after what just
happened- how could I possibly trust him?
AVERY
We can�t afford mistakes. We both have too much
on the line.
SAM
Don�t worry. He can fix it quickly, but, you gotta
be discrete.
SAM
We have to keep everything under control. You got
it?
AVERY
You got it? Do I look like one of your players?
SAM
No, you don�t look like one of my players.
AVERY
We�re in this together, Sam. Don�t forget� if
anyone finds out-
We both lose
AVERY
Did you hear that?
AVERY
It was probably nothing
SAM
Can we call it a night? I gotta lock up
AVERY
Yeah
AVERY
One of the janitors?
SAM
Lisa�s car
AVERY
So much for keeping things under control
TAYLOR
Morning
LISA
Hey, honey. Sleep ok?
TAYLOR
Some, I�ll be fine.
LISA
Did you use paint for the pep rally earlier this
week? Looks like some of it got on your clothes and
might have got on dad�s stuff in the wash, too.
TAYLOR
We�ve been painting signs all week. Could�ve been
from mine or bumping into people
LISA
You going somewhere?
TAYLOR
Oh, yeah. I was gonna go pick up Noah. A bunch
of us are meeting down at the cafe to see how
everyone is holding up
LISA
Oh, he hasn�t fixed the car yet?
TAYLOR
I guess not. I think he�s kind of embarrassed by
the whole thing though, not that he could�ve
stopped it. He wants to keep it like-
LISA
Discrete?
TAYLOR
 I was gonna say lowkey, but yeah sure,
that works too
TAYLOR
So�can I take the car?
LISA
I�m gonna need it this morning. Can you have a
friend pick you up?
TAYLOR
Or you could ride with us. Where are you going?
LISA
Lots of places, Taylor. It�ll take too long for you
two
TAYLOR
Fine
LISA
Hello? Anyone here?
AVERY
Lisa
LISA
Avery, what�re you doing here?
AVERY
Your husband recommended it. I don�t know if you
heard, but Noah�s car was vandalized as a part of
some prank war.
LISA
I did, that�s too bad. Did you drive it over?
AVERY
No, I�ve got my car. Just wanted to check out the
place first. What brings you in?
LISA
Just an oil change
AVERY
and here I thought a husband would know how to
handle that himself
LISA
Sam? Work on a car?
Not a chance
LISA
So, he recommended this place to you?
AVERY
Sam has been a great help. Thank you for
letting us borrow him. It�s tough with just the two of
us.
LISA
Well�we all have a responsibility to help those
in need. I�ve been spending my time with Ruth
recently, Kevin�s mom.
AVERY
That�s so kind. How is she holding up?
LISA
Not well, but I don�t know who would be in her
position. Dealing with everything and all the
questions from the police.
AVERY
For the investigation?
AVERY
Are there any updates?
LISA
Not that I know of, but Finnegan mentioned that
the police are going to be available at the school
today for anyone who might have information about
that night.
AVERY
Are you headed there next?
LISA
I don�t know if I have much to say. Do you know
anything?
AVERY
Just what Noah told me. It�d probably be best if we
go talk to them. Make sure that they have
everything that they need
LISA
Guess it can�t hurt
AVERY
Excellent. Well, it looks like it�s probably going
to be awhile until they�re back. Should we just head
that way now?
LISA
Ok. Let�s go
AVERY
Great
LISA
Looks like the students started a tribute for him
AVERY
Yeah
AVERY
Come on, I think it�s this way.
MORRISON
Good afternoon
AVERY
Good afternoon
MORRISON
I�m detective Morrison. Running lead on this case
LISA
I�m Lisa Clarkson. This is Avery Downey. We�re
parents of students who knew Kevin. We heard your
asking for anyone to come forward with
information.
AVERY
We just wanna help. Do you want to talk to both
of us or one at a time?
MORRISON
Oh, both is fine. Unless, there�s anything you can�t
say in front of the other.
LISA
Not a problem for us
MORRISON
Great. Please, have a seat
MORRISON
Now, I�m just reviewing Kevin�s timeline from
that day. If you wouldn�t mind confirming� I see
that there was a pep rally that day followed by a
booster event
LISA
I wouldn�t say that Kevin was at the booster event.
Him and my daughter helped me set up, but they
didn�t stick around. It was primarily parents and
staff.
MORRISON
We�ll need to take a look at that guest list if that�s
alright
LISA
Of course.
MORRISON
and did either of you attend the pep rally?
AVERY
Sure, I poked my head in. It was the whole student
body. Well, most of the students were there.
MORRISON
Most? Was there something else going on?
AVERY
I mean, some of the kids sneak under the bleachers
or to the old band room. Wherever they can get
their hands on liquor.
LISA
You think that students got alcohol from the
mixer?
MORRISON
You tell me
AVERY
I�m not saying that Lisa did anything wrong. It�s
just that we�re talking about high school students
here, they�re gonna do what they want.
LISA
The alcohol was stored in a locked space during
the rally and then during the mixer we obviously
only served alcohol to the adults. There was
someone on staff at the drink station all night.
MORRISON
Did they leave? Quick trip to the bathroom? More
cups? More ice? Or were you not monitoring the
situation?
LISA
There was a lot going on. You can ask them
AVERY
I�m only sharing what I heard. I didn�t see any of
this, detective.
MORRISON
Ok and what about monitoring the adults that were
drinking?
MORRISON
Making sure they weren�t driving. In fact it�s a
little foggy whether you could legally be serving
alcohol at a school function.
LISA
I�m here to help. If you want to make me
responsible for over 500 students and staff I don�t
know what to tell you.
LISA
Excuse me a moment
LISA
Hey
MR. FINNEGAN
I�ll catch up
MR. FINNEGAN
Hi Lisa. How�s it going in there?
LISA
She�s pretty intense. I�m getting grilled about it not
being legal to serve alcohol at the mixer. Your office
would�ve cleared that, right?
MR. FINNEGAN
I hope so. Not like we need anything else right
now.
LISA
Have you heard about kids stealing alcohol?
MR. FINNEGAN
What? No! I also wouldn�t have thought I�d be a
hit and run suspect until I spoke to the cops an
hour ago.
LISA
What? How?
MR. FINNEGAN
I guess some people were saying I was out late and
hungover the next morning. Now the cops are
grilling me about my job asking me why I didn�t
report someone breaking into the storage shed and
why you and I were seen in the school parking lot
arguing as some students found it odd.
LISA
I�m so sorry to hear that.
MR. FINNEGAN
I�m sorry to hear you�re having trouble in there,
but I just have a feeling that, that�s just how it�s
gonna have to be for a little while
MR. FINNEGAN
Excuse me, please
MORRISON
Mrs. Clarkson, you mind coming back in? I�ve got
some questions to ask you privately. Need to clear a
few things up.
LISA
Of course.
MORRISON
Thank you so much for your help.
RUTH
Lisa, you really don�t have to do more than you
already have
LISA
Last thing, I promise
RUTH
I wanted you to see this
RUTH
They loved that park. My sister and I were going
through photos to have up at the wake and we found
this one and�
LISA
That�s so sweet
LISA
We�ll have to show Taylor
RUTH
Please do
RUTH
Ok, I should go
SAM
 Listen, I just want you to stay strong
SAM
 We�ll get past it, alright?
NOAH
I need some air
LISA
What was that all about?
SAM
With Noah? Just telling him to keep his focus.
LISA
Keep his focus? I think he�s got enough pressure,
Sam. It�s ok for him to grieve.
SAM
Not everyone has to do things your way, Lisa
LISA
Is this your way of helping Noah or is it Avery�s?
SAM
Alright, come here. Please.
SAM
What are you talking about?
LISA
Is that why she�s always coming to your office?
Child raising tips?
SAM
She can�t be worried about her own son? You�re
not the only one that wants to help people, Lisa
LISA
Why does your help always have to be done in
secret? What don�t I know?
SAM
You don�t know the pressure he is under, that I�m
under. What�s on the line for us this season
LISA
I know what�s on the line. I�ve been with you
every single step of the way.
LISA
This isn�t about Cloverdell, is it? You�re still
thinking about going to Ohio.
LISA
Sam, look at me. Am I right?
SAM
He�s a big boy. He doesn�t need to be coddled and
I coach my players the way I want to. You got it?
SAM
SAM
I�m sorry. Can we talk about this later?
SAM
Yeah?
SAM
Ok
JP
Ooh, sorry about that
LISA
My mistake.
JP
Hey, Ms. Coach
LISA
Lisa, please. It�s good to see you.
LISA
It�s so nice that so many of you boys made it here
today. I know it means a lot to Kevin�s mom.
JP
Yeah. Well�coach always says we�re on the same
team on and off the field
LISA
How nice. Coach really has his priorities in the
right place. It�s nice to see. Were you friends with
Kevin?
JP
Umm�just a little bit, but he was actually at my
party that night.
LISA
Sounds like he left your party early. I heard he
might�ve got kicked out
JP
I don�t know about that, ya know. Noah and Taylor
brought him. I didn�t really care that they invited
him. It was all cool, but I don�t know when he left if
that�s what you�re asking
LISA
You didn�t see him when you borrowed Noah�s
car?
JP
Borrowed a car? I was at my house. Why would I
leave?
LISA
I don�t know, why would you?
JP
I was hosting
LISA
Right, hosting. And then you got into an argument
with Noah, but you didn�t kick him out
JP
Ok look, Lisa. I don�t have to take this from you.
If you have a problem with me take it up with my
dad
TAYLOR
You know we used to play wiffleball world series
out here
TAYLOR
It�s crazy how big this yard used to feel.
NOAH
Sounds fun
NOAH
Never any football?
TAYLOR
 Please, I can throw the football better
than Kevin.
TAYLOR
Hey, umm� you don�t think anyone from the
party could�ve hit him, do you?
NOAH
It could�ve been anyone
TAYLOR
Yeah, but I mean people going to and coming from
JP�s. They would�ve used Phillips. Hardly anybody
else lives the other way.
NOAH
Yeah, no. I guess
NOAH
 Ok, you ready to go?
TAYLOR
No. Are you ok?
NOAH
I don�t know. It�s just-
It�s just a lot
NOAH
I understand that you�re going through it too, I do.
But, I am getting it from every single angle. The
school�s dedicating the homecoming game to him,
guys on the team are talking about naming the first
play Kevin. All the scouts and agents are asking
how I�m dealing with this. It�s like I already had
enough riding on this season and now it�s like his
entire memory comes down to how I play on
Friday.
TAYLOR
I�m really sorry. That�s a lot of pressure and no
one should be expecting so much from you.
NOAH
I know, but I get it from my mom, the team, the
entire school, your dad�
TAYLOR
and me?
NOAH
I didn�t say that
TAYLOR
What the hell, Noah? I can�t come to you for
support now? My dad�s away coaching and my
mom�s barely around now and-
TAYLOR
Kev was my best friend growing up. I�ve known
him for 10 years.
NOAH
It�s not that, ok? It�s just-
NOAH
Can we just please go? I just want to take my mind
off all of this.
NOAH
Please?
TAYLOR
Well, I want to stay
NOAH
Please?
TAYLOR
Go
TAYLOR
I�m serious
NOAH
Ok
AVERY
Everything ok?
LISA
I�m fine. Tough day
AVERY
I can imagine. Knowing him as long as you have.
Why don�t you let me take over the food? You�ve
already done so much
LISA
That�s ok.
AVERY
Please, I insist and so does Ruth
LISA
I�m sorry?
AVERY
You said it yourself�it�s a tough day so we can
all get emotional and if you�re going to take it out
on a student, maybe it�s best if you just give
everyone some space.
AVERY
Just looking out for a friend
LISA
Is that so?
LISA
350 for ten minutes to reheat. Her oven runs a little
hot, but I�m sure you already knew that since she�s
such a good friend of yours
JP
Hey man. You got a sec?
NOAH
Yeah
JP
I don�t know if you heard, but the coach�s wife
was giving me a hard time at the wake. Asking me a
lot of questions.
NOAH
What kind of questions?
JP
Just stuff about Kevin and the party
JP
Why we were arguing
NOAH
Alright, I mean� so what? It seems like it�s all
JP
Look. What I�m saying is maybe she needs to cool
it. So, if you could talk to coach or Taylor maybe?
NOAH
No, I got enough on my plate right now, JP. You
want something done just go do it yourself
JP
Oh, don�t worry. You�re not the only one I�m
talking to.
NOAH
What does that mean?
JP
It means that some people need a reminder to not
mess with the team
NOAH
Don�t do something stupid, JP
JP
Hey
NOAH
Ok?
JP
We agreed we are on the same team. On and off
the field. Look, if this is about Taylor giving you a
hard time at the wake too- maybe it just runs in the
family
NOAH
Hmm�
NOAH
Look, you wanna be a good team mate then just
stay out of my way, got it?
LISA
Good morning. I thought I�d come a little early if
you wanna review the presentation again.
MR. FINNEGAN
Well you can save it. Natalie from the bank just
called. She cancelled the meeting
LISA
Cancelled?
MR. FINNEGAN
She just said they�d be in touch
LISA
The last time we spoke she said we were approved
once we review the final plan. I worked for hours
on the presentation.
MR. FINNEGAN
Some concern that our faculty has enough on their
plate with the police investigation and something
about the additional funding being reconsidered
LISA
Why would that be an issue? I�m sure there�s just
some misunderstanding
MR. FINNEGAN
No, they were quite clear
MR. FINNEGAN
but, why would Tom Reynolds be reconsidering
his investment?
LISA
She named Tom Reynolds specifically?
MR. FINNEGAN
and whose kid is were you badgering with
questions about Kevin at the wake?
LISA
No, call him! We talk through this now.
MR. FINNEGAN
You follow my lead.
TOM
This is Tom
MR. FINNEGAN
Hey, Tom. Principal Finnegan here with Lisa
Clarkson.
TOM
Oh, hey you two. I�m kind of in the middle of
something. Can I call you later?
MR. FINNEGAN
Shouldn�t take long. I had an interesting
conversation with our bank about our loan and
this money for the library. Any reason why they
would be concerned with your donation?
TOM
Well now, I can�t speak for the bank.
LISA
Can you speak for your donation?
TOM
The bank and I spoke and I shared our projections
for the quarter. They came in lower than expected,
but it�s just a projection, nothing's final yet.
LISA
We really really need you with us, Tom. We all
know we�re not asking too much from you.
TOM
I�ll handle my business on my own, thanks.
TOM
You do well to stay out of it, Lisa. Now, I�ve gotta
run. Go bulldogs
LISA
Does anybody want to ask why Tom�s so
concerned with me asking questions.
MR. FINNEGAN
 Give me the presentation. I�m putting
Avery on this.
LISA
This is my project, my work. Now you want me to
take a backseat and be Mrs. Coach like everybody
else?
MR. FINNEGAN
I don�t make the rules, Lisa. I�m just playing by
them. You can take a step back, let this all blow
over. Hell you got this thing planned to a T. Even
Avery can see it through
LISA
No, we can find another bank, find more donors
MR. FINNEGAN
Lisa, I can�t jeopardize this any further.
MR. FINNEGAN
Look, you may have done the leg work here but
ultimately this is my call.
LISA
You know, Mike. I never thought you�d be the type
to sell out like this.
MR. FINNEGAN
That�s enough
MR. FINNEGAN
The presentation�now!
SAM
Avery, this is too risky
AVERY
You don�t have to worry, Sam. Noah�s at a friend�s
house. It�s fine here
SAM
I can�t keep avoiding her. She was asking about
you at the wake.
AVERY
What did you say?
SAM
 Nothing
SAM
but, you know how she is. She�s not gonna let this
go away.
AVERY
We need to know what Ruth is telling her.
AVERY
She must�ve overheard us talking about the
auto shop since she�s been sniffing around there.
If Ruth is talking with her and the car isn�t fixed
in time it won�t be difficult to piece it all together
SAM
We�ll call them in the morning. They�ll get it
done. But, you need to listen to me and lay low
until we figure this out.
AVERY
You mean you figure it out? Decide whether you
really want to be with me or not?
AVERY
Is that why you won�t come see me, why I have to
keep coming to your office?
SAM
Avery, you know how I feel about you. Ok? We
just need to be smart for a little bit longer. The more
time you spend with her the more I can be seen with
you, the more risk we take. Think about it
AVERY
You can�t keep hiding from your problems, Sam
AVERY
She clearly knows something, but we need to
know how much if we want this to go away.
AVERY
If it was it me
AVERY
the old me
AVERY
the one me would let anything go
AVERY
What�s that Jimmy? You don�t want to be Noah�s
father anymore? We know that you love the house
Ms. Downey, but you�re just too far behind on your
mortgage payments
AVERY
I let that go, too
AVERY
But, I will not let this opportunity go. Noah is
a good kid. He made one bad mistake, that could�ve
happened to anyone.
AVERY
He earned his scholarships. He�s gonna play in
college and he�s gonna go pro. Despite everything
that I�ve been through, everything I�ve sacrificed
for him. He�s gonna take care of me.
AVERY
and I will not let your wife take that from Noah.
AVERY
from me
AVERY
from us
SAM
Right after the season and after all this-
I�m yours.
AVERY
You already are
AVERY
You won�t let anything happen to Noah?
SAM
I won�t
AVERY
We�re in this together?
SAM
We are
AVERY
Show me
SAM
I have to get back
AVERY
No
AVERY
show me
Go
Set. Go
SAM
Good stride, Noah.
Again.
SAM
here we go
SAM
Again!
SAM
Come on, if you can�t hit this during practice how
are you gonna do it Friday night?
SAM
Here we go
NOAH
 ok
SAM
Throw the ball
SAM
Thatta boy! Nice! Nice!
SAM
Hey, where�re you going?
NOAH
Bathroom.
SAM
Alright, guys�stretching in 5 minutes. Line them
up.
LISA
Hello?
AVERY
Hi, I spoke to Finnegan and offered to bring the
meal train over to Ruth�s. Care to meet me there?
LISA
I�ll be right there
LISA
That should be enough to take care of you for
a while. I can come by anytime if you need
anything else
RUTH
Thank you. Both of you. I haven�t even been able
to think about food
LISA
How�re you holding up?
RUTH
Every day is quieter than the one before.
RUTH
17 years of something to do and somewhere to be
and - suddenly it stops
RUTH
Quite the photo, huh?
RUTH
I hadn�t realized until all this, but Kevin was
keeping a photo album in his room.
LISA
You hadn�t told me that
AVERY
I�m sure it must be hard to stop thinking about
that night. It keeps popping up in my mind. The
mixer, the pep rally were so much fun and then to
have it all so�different. Just like that
RUTH
Well life changes in an instant
AVERY
and are they any closer to finding out who
could�ve done this?
LISA
We don�t have to talk about any of this if you
don�t want to, Ruth
AVERY
I�m sure she wants to know
RUTH
It�s ok. Um�no, they don�t have any leads
RUTH
I read online that only 10 percentage of hit and run
cases are ever solved
LISA
It�s still early going. Maybe they�ll find something
new.
RUTH
I don�t know. I doubt it
RUTH
They do think that it was a smaller car. Based on
where he was hit and that it would�ve been the
passenger�s side damage, but that�s not much to
go on.
AVERY
How awful. Is that really all the information?
No witnesses? They didn�t find anything at the site
where he was hit?
LISA
Avery!
AVERY
Sorry�I�m overstepping
AVERY
I have to run anyway, I just wanted to come by and
show my support
AVERY
If there�s anything that you need Ruth, I�m just
a phone call away.
RUTH
Thank you. I really appreciate it
LISA
I�ll walk you out
LISA
What the hell was that?
AVERY
What do you mean?
AVERY
We�re here for Ruth. To support her.
LISA
Support her with endless questions about the
accident?
AVERY
Well, I�m sorry that I don�t know everything like
you do. All of us aren�t over here asking her
questions and interrogating people.
LISA
Oh, that�s not fair. She asked me to help so I did
AVERY
And she asked you to talk to Tom Reynolds�s son
about the party during her son�s wake? We all saw
it. It�s no secret
LISA
It�s funny how everyone seems to know everything
I�m doing. Where I�m going. Like someone is
watching me. Even when I go to an auto shop
AVERY
You think everything is about you
LISA
or maybe what I�m doing is making people
nervous
AVERY
 Now that�s just silly
LISA
That must be it. Must be Sam spending all those
nights working late at the office
AVERY
Some of us are a little more ambitious than others.
Sam may just want more than the status quo.
AVERY
Tell Ruth I said bye
MORRISON
Mrs. Clarkson
MORRISON
This is detective Morrison
LISA
Uh�just a minute. Be right there
MORRISON
Hello?
MORRISON
Mrs. Clarkson
LISA
Detective Morrison, hi. How can I help you?
MORRISON
Is everything ok?
LISA
Yes, I was sleeping in
MORRISON
Out late last night?
LISA
No, I was here
MORRISON
Your husband or anyone else able to verify that
for me?
LISA
Sam was working late, lots to work on with the
game. I�m sorry, what is this about?
MORRISON
There was a break-in last night at Junkyard Dog
automotives. You get your car worked on there?
LISA
Sam handles that stuff
MORRISON
And you don�t know anything about the break-in?
LISA
I�m afraid I can�t help you
MORRISON
Hmm� is that so?
LISA
Are you visiting every customer of theirs or just
me?
LISA
Let me guess, you received an anonymous tip to
stop by and check on me
MORRISON
Interesting theory
LISA
Is that everything?
MORRISON
Sure. You know how to reach me
TAYLOR
What was that all about?
LISA
Something for the police to handle
TAYLOR
Mom, you weren�t home last night. I was up late
studying and you didn�t answer your phone and�
what�s going on?
TAYLOR
Did you- Did you break into the auto shop?
LISA
Honey. Listen, I need you to trust me. You need to
come straight home from school the next couple of
days.
TAYLOR
What�re you talking about? The big game�s
tomorrow night
LISA
Just give me some time and I�ll be able to explain
LISA
Ok?
AVERY
Hello?
AVERY
Ok, yeah. Yep, I�ll be right there.
LISA
Come on, give me something.
MR. FINNEGAN
What the hell are you doing, Lisa?
LISA
You need to see this
MR. FINNEGAN
Security called. They told me someone broke into
the shed
LISA
Just look!
MR. FINNEGAN
 What�s your point?
LISA
The point is that I found this crimson lid in Avery�s
garage
MR. FINNEGAN
Cause you broke in there too
LISA
Someone driving Noah�s car hit Kevin and they
covered it up by making it look like someone
damaged it as a prank and the only place they knew
they could get paint in the middle of the night was
here.
LISA
Think about it. Why would Lincoln vandalize a
single car as a prank, at a house party, and do it in
Springfield colors? When have they ever done that
in your 24 years here?
MR. FINNEGAN
This is all speculative nonsense and this is your
proof? A spray paint lid�that you stole?
LISA
His car was damaged in the same place that�s
mentioned in the police report. They got it fixed off
the books. They�ve been trying to hide everything
about it
MR. FINNEGAN
You can�t be on campus, you can�t be a part of the
P.T.A., all of it
MR. FINNEGAN
You�re done. Effective immediately. I�m sorry�
you�ve forced my hand
LISA
How can -
How can you-
MR. FINNEGAN
It�s the board, Lisa. They were unanimous. With
all of this going on and now I find you here. I have
no choice.
MR. FINNEGAN
Security will be here any minute
MR. FINNEGAN
I don�t want this to get any worse for you. Please
MR. FINNEGAN
just go
SAM
Lisa, are you ok?
SAM
What happened?
LISA
SAM
Can you get up?
SAM
Yes, we�re outside now away from the leak
SAM
She�s conscious, but dazed
SAM
Ok. Yes. Thank you.
SAM
The fire department is sending someone in 10
minutes
SAM
They�ll see if there was an issue with the oven
SAM
If this was your way of getting my attention�
you got it
LISA
You think I did this? Someone hit me with a
bottle and then tried to poison me
SAM
Lisa, don�t be ridiculous. Who would want to do
that?
SAM
You got dizzy from the gas and you fell and you
hit your head
LISA
Stop trying to play the fool, Sam. It doesn�t
suit you. We both know who is responsible
LISA
 Fine, I�ll tell the firemen when they get
here.
SAM
Tell them what? You�re not saying anything
SAM
Talk to me, please
LISA
I saw you at Avery�s
LISA
How long has it been?
SAM
What�re you talking about?
SAM
You�ve been following me?
LISA
How else am I gonna know where you are half
the time?
SAM
Ok, alright. When? What did you see?
SAM
You know you�re always looking at everyone like
they�re a suspect. You can�t be happy with anyone
LISA
I was happy. Happy with you, happy with Taylor. I
built my entire life around empowering you. Your
career, your dreams and I thought I was a part of
those dreams
LISA
You would never even think to do the same
for me.
LISA
Supporting me. You just take and take and you just
wanted someone to be Mrs. Coach. Well, I�m glad
you found that with Avery. You can all go down
together
SAM
What-? Go down? Go down for what?
LISA
I know about the accident. The cops can�t find the
car that hit Kevin, because you had Avery get it
fixed at the shop discretely
LISA
 You weren�t helping Finnegan with the
keys. That was Avery that called you
SAM
You have no idea what you�re talking about
LISA
 You told them- you told them to break
into the shed because you knew the paint was in
there.
LISA
and all this just so you can get another job?
LISA
 That was�Kevin
LISA
We watched him grow up. And you�you did
everything you could to bury him
SAM
Alright, just take it easy
LISA
No! Just tell me the truth
LISA
and don�t act like I�m crazy, Sam. I know what I
saw. Please
LISA
Tell me
LISA
Are you and Avery� are you-
SAM
We�ve been seeing each other since the spring
SAM
Noah and I had throwing sessions and she would
be there and before long�it just happened
LISA
LISA
Does Taylor know?
SAM
No
SAM
I don�t even think Noah does
SAM
Honey, it was just a stupid affair. Ok? It didn�t
mean anything. That�s all it was
SAM
and all this stuff that you�re talking about. Kevin, I
honestly have no idea what you�re talking about
LISA
You expect me to believe you?
SAM
No, I don�t. But, you should
SAM
You�ve been stretching yourself so thin since this
accident with Kevin and for what?
SAM
I mean� breaking and entering? Sneaking
around? Can�t you see how irrational that is?
How irrational you�re being? You can�t even see
that
LISA
What was tonight, huh? Some freak accident right
when I start piecing it all together?
SAM
I don�t know what tonight was
SAM
Ok? I have no idea
SAM
but I guess we can�t trust each other anymore�
can we?
LISA
I am not being irrational. If you could turn a blind
eye to this� you can turn a blind eye to anything
SAM
Where are you going?
LISA
I�m going to Ruth�s and I want Taylor with me
SAM
Stay
SAM
Just stay. We have to work through this
LISA
Good luck with the game tomorrow. I hope
you get what you want and you never come back
AVERY
Everything ok, Taylor?
TAYLOR
Uh�well I just got off the phone with my dad. I
got a bunch of messages and missed calls from my
mom.
TAYLOR
I don�t know what to think anymore
TAYLOR
because my dad�s saying that my mom may have
tried to harm herself and then my mom is saying
that she wants me to stay with her at Ruth�s and that
it�s not safe with my dad and it�s not safe here
TAYLOR
I don�t know what to do
TAYLOR
I just want things to go back to the way they were
NOAH
You don�t have to apologize, alright?
TAYLOR
NOAH
and you did nothing wrong. If anything�I�m the
one who-
AVERY
You can stay as long as you need to, dear
TAYLOR
Oh, no. I shouldn�t. I should probably call my
mom back
AVERY
She�s going through a lot right now
AVERY
and the last time I saw her�
AVERY
she had this with her
AVERY
She must�ve taken it when Ruth showed her
AVERY
I think Kevin�s death and not being able to help
has really taken a toll on her
TAYLOR
She does a lot�for everyone
AVERY
Oh, I know. And that must be hard to see whenever
you need something
AVERY
I see how good you two are together. So, to me,
you�re already family
AVERY
and I will do anything for my family
AVERY
So stay here tonight. We�ll figure everything out
tomorrow
RADIO
Tonight�s the night we�ve been waiting for since
the tragic accident at Springfield high last week
the game of the year was postponed. Now, all eyes
are on young quarterback Noah Downey and head
coach Sam Clarkson in a Friday night showdown
for the ages. They�ve been on the same page up to
this point, but you never know what an incident like
this can do to the duo. They need to be sharp and
precise-
TAYLOR
Hey guys, this is Taylor. I�m sorry I missed your
call
RUTH
She�s still not answering?
RUTH
Why don�t you go over to Avery�s
LISA
She�ll call the cops for trespassing and Finnegan
will get security if I go anywhere on campus
RUTH
What about Detective Morrison? What if I call
her?
LISA
They won�t listen to me and you�ve lost enough in
all of this. I don�t want you involved any more than
you already are.
LISA
I�m sure this week has been a nightmare for you
LISA
 It feels the same for me. Almost everyone
I know has been avoiding me, doubting me, lying to
me. And when I finally feel like I�m figuring it all
out no one wants to listen
LISA
Maybe they�re right. Maybe I�m grasping at
straws trying to put pieces together that don�t fit
LISA
What do you think?
LISA
 Am I crazy?
RUTH
I never would�ve thought that Sam, Avery, anyone
could cover up what happened to Kevin�but
someone did and with all that you found out despite
everyone trying to stop you - I believe you.
LISA
You know the worst part of it?
LISA
I�m trying to get Taylor away from them, but what
if she�s involved?
RUTH
The night of Kevin�s accident� when I called you
because I felt like something was off. Sometimes all
we have to go on is our instincts and yours led you
to this ugly truth and this moment
RUTH
Do you think Taylor was involved?
LISA
No. No, she wasn�t
RUTH
Then she wasn�t
RUTH
and we have to get her away from them, now
RUTH
I�m gonna call Morrison. We�ll tell her everything.
Are you gonna go over to Avery�s?
LISA
No, Taylor won�t be there. It�s Friday night
LISA
everyone in town is headed to one place
SAM
Come on! There we go, good!
SAM
Here we go, here we go
NOAH
This is all too much, coach. I can�t -
I can�t stop thinking about it, ya know?
SAM
Game kicks off in 30 minutes, Noah
SAM
We have to stick together, ok?
NOAH
I don�t think I can play
SAM
Don�t you start this with me now
SAM
Look at me
SAM
Look at me
SAM
You are our quarterback, our captain, you are a football
player.
SAM
and all I�m asking is for you to give me 60 minutes of
being exactly who you are
SAM
Nothing else matters
NOAH
Yeah
SAM
Nothing else. Get up! Up! Up
SAM
Look at me
SAM
Your instincts will take over. You�ll catch a rhythm and
we�ll show those scouts what we�ve spent a lifetime
working on, ok?
NOAH
Ok
SAM
Hey
NOAH
Hmm?
SAM
Nothing else matters. Ok?
NOAH
Ok, yeah
SAM
Louder
NOAH
Ok
SAM
Louder!
NOAH
Ok
SAM
Louder!
NOAH
Ok!
SAM
Alright!
NOAH
Ok! Let�s go!
SAM
Hey
AVERY
How ya feeling coach?
SAM
Avery, Lisa knows. She can�t prove it yet, but she
knows
AVERY
You don�t have to worry about that. Just focus on
the game. I�ll be sure to make everything right, ok?
SAM
Wait, make things right? What does that mean?
AVERY
You got a job to do. Just focus on that
SAM
 Avery�did you have something
to do with what happened to Lisa last night?
AVERY
Everything we�ve worked for is really happening
now, isn�t it?
AVERY
It�s gonna be a great night
MR. FINNEGAN
Lisa, you�re not allowed on campus. Get out of
here.
LISA
Listen to me
MR. FINNEGAN
I�m calling security
LISA
I�m not here for me. I�m here for Taylor. She�s not
answering my calls. I can�t find her. Mike, please.
Part of you knows I�m right about all this. Even if
I�m not I�m just a mom trying to find her daughter
MR. FINNEGAN
You know�she called in sick today
LISA
No one�s seen her all day?
MR. FINNEGAN
The cheerleading coach hadn�t seen her either. I�ll
tell you what. I will show pictures to all the ushers.
You talk to any of the parents willing to listen. Call
me if you hear anything. I�ll do the same
LISA
Thank you, Mike
and here they are folks! Your Springfield bulldogs
LISA
Noah. Noah! Where�s Taylor?
SAM
Lisa
SAM
What�re you doing here?
LISA
Where is Taylor?
SAM
Warming up with the cheerleaders
LISA
No she�s not. No one has seen her. Something�s
wrong, Sam. It�s Avery!
SAM
You need to get a hold of yourself.
LISA
Hello?
AVERY
Quite the scene, huh? Tell me, how�s the view
from the sideline?
AVERY
Leave your phone and come inside the school.
You talk to Finnegan again or anyone else, you
bring your phone in and I might not be so nice to
Taylor
LISA
Where are we meeting inside?
AVERY
By the lockers. I think you know which one.
See you soon.
SAM
Shake it off. Find your rhythm like we talked about
alright?
NOAH
Yeah, ok
AVERY
Hello, Lisa
LISA
This is sick, Avery
AVERY
I agree. It�s not a healthy situation
LISA
Where is Taylor?
AVERY
I�m sure it must�ve hurt. Her coming to me when
she needed support. But, that�s what I do. Even in
the middle of the night when my son came to me
saying something horrible had happened. I was
there for him
LISA
Where is she?
AVERY
She�s safe
AVERY
You don�t have to worry about her anymore
AVERY
You were right about this. This is the work of a
very sick person.
AVERY
Someone that couldn�t handle that she accidentally
hit her best friend�s son. So, she puts on a show
trying to help everyone, while throwing around wild
accusations and trying to blame the school�s star
player, of all people
AVERY
But the truth kept eating at her. That can make any
woman mad
SAM
Alright, first team offensive on me
SAM
Noah! Time to shine, Noah
SAM
Hey
SAM
Just focus on what�s in front of us, ok?
SAM
Nothing else matters
NOAH
Nothing else matters
SAM
Right
NOAH
Kevin mattered coach
NOAH
Kevin mattered
One more minute, coach
SAM
One minute
NOAH
No, I�m done playing along. With everything
NOAH
You can find another quarterback
LISA
How could you do this?
AVERY
It drove her so mad she tried to hurt herself as
a plea for help
AVERY
but her husband didn�t care. He was too busy
working. So when she feels like she can�t go on
she doesn�t
LISA
None of that is true, Avery. You can�t try shifting
the blame for this. We both know what Noah did.
It�s time to admit it
AVERY
For what?
AVERY
So you can just haul him off to prison and being
the hero again while ruining all of our lives?
AVERY
No! No, not this time. I will not let you destroy his
life. What we have worked for
LISA
It�s over, Avery. We can both walk out of here right
now. Get help for Noah. Get you help
AVERY
You don�t want to help him. You want to hurt him
and I will not let you
JP
Coach, what�s the plan?
JP
What�s the plan? Who is the QB?
SAM
Where�s Taylor?
SAM
Tell Coach Blanton to take over
JP
Coach!
LISA
AVERY
You�ve left me no choice
TAYLOR
Mom
LISA
Oh, thank god you�re ok. How did you know
where to find us?
TAYLOR
I was at Noah�s house. They didn�t want me to
come to the game and I saw all these cut up
pictures of Kevin. I called Ruth and she told me
everything you told her and she called the police.
They�re on their way
AVERY
You can�t trust them, Taylor. We talked about this.
I�m the only one there for you. Me and Noah
TAYLOR
 You�re right about Noah. I saw him
coming off the field and I followed him inside. He
quit the team and then he told me everything that
happened at the party after I left. How JP took the
car for beer and he came back fine and and then
Noah went, he thought he hit a deer. He didn�t mean
to hit Kevin
TAYLOR
I didn�t know what to do. I heard your voice and I
ran
AVERY
Now you know everything
AVERY
just like your mother. You couldn�t stay out of
other people�s business, could you?
LISA
Avery, stop right now! This is over!
AVERY
It�s over when I say it�s over
LISA
Run! Run!
SAM
Girls
TAYLOR
Dad, watch out!
SAM
AVERY
SAM
TAYLOR
Dad, you gotta keep pressure on it. I�ll go for
help.
SAM
No, no!
AVERY
LISA
Avery!
LISA
Try talking your way out of that
LISA
You�re sure you wanna do this? You know it�s
gonna be on channel 9 tonight.
RUTH
 Well let�s hope Avery gets that channel
in prison
MR. FINNEGAN
Maybe leave that out of any speeches tonight
RUTH
I�ll try
MR. FINNEGAN
RUTH
No promises
MR. FINNEGAN
This is a big day. We�re so happy you could be
here.
MR. FINNEGAN
Sam couldn�t make it?
LISA
I haven�t really spoken with him. He finally moved
out and I think he�s trying to get a new coaching
job.
RUTH
Ah, good riddance
MR. FINNEGAN
Well, let�s get this show on the road. I�ll see you
out there in just a minute
TAYLOR
Umm� Noah wanted me to give this to you
TAYLOR
I�ve visited him a few times
TAYLOR
He�s really sorry and he knows that he can never
make it up to you, but umm�when he gets out he
wants to try
RUTH
I�ll read it in time. Thank you
RUTH
Thanks to all of you
LISA
Ok? Let�s go
MR. FINNEGAN
And to dedicate our new library, ladies and
gentlemen please welcome Ruth Brinkman