Hi people!

Alright, so this looked SO much better on Celtx. The format all got screwed up here.

Welcome to my first (and probably last) Script Frenzy. I managed the challenge, yet I was unable to cross the finish line because my computer refused to change my script into an Adobe file.

You all have to know that I had absolutely NO idea how to write a script, so my scriptwriting skills are well under the acceptable line. I suggest none of you read it, just because my computer’s so slow, I have to delete Celtx, and I wanted to plug my script someplace. It came here. It’s really pathetic and the story is SO cliché but… I worked so hard on this horror that I couldn’t bring myself to delete it.

Warning: Some scenes shouldn’t be read by anyone 16 years or younger. Themes of violence, sexual abuse, and some sour language. You have been warned.

Take care!

int - THE PROtector studio - morning

Camera fades in on a long corridor. The walls are painted light gray, the floors black tiles. There are posters littering the walls, posters of superstars and films. At the end of the corridor turn two people; ANNIE FRASER, 16-year old daughter of MIKE FRASER, forty-two. She has dark brown hair and hazel eyes, while he has thick black hair and shares his daughter's eye color. She is wearing dark clothing, a messed up teen attempting to look professional, while he is in a security guard's uniform. They walk towards the camera while discussing.

mike

You see, Annie, being the security guard isn't that easy. Remember what I told you- everything you do--

ANNIE

Will be reflected on you, dad. I know. I promised both you and mom that I'd be a good girl.

Mike just moves in front of his daughter as a few people pass them. As soon as they vanish, his expression softens.

MIKE

This is a cruel enterprise, Annie. There are people out here who could murder you just for the hell of it, really. Just because they might think you're the superstar of this whole show.

ANNIE

(Laughs and shakes her head)

Suure, dad! I'm some stunning actor who will own the entire set! Woo!

They both start to laugh and the camera fades out.

int - The janitor's closet - continuous

Two men are sitting together. Both are wearing janitor's outfits, dark blue overalls with a white teeshirt under it. One man is JACOB SR MCKEEN, a man in his late forties with white hair and kind blue eyes. His son, JACOB JR MCKEEN, also named JAKE, inherited the blue eyes, but his short spiked hair is pure blond. He seemed to be angry at something.

The room is dimly lit, the two sources of light being a single lightbulb and an unshaded window. There is a large flashlight resting besides the table where the two men are, in case either has to look for something. It's dirty and grungy, the teenage boy seriously looks out of place and disgusted.

jacob

(With a little country twang to his voice)

What be the matter, son?

jake

This is horrible. I want nothing to do with this place, why did you force me to come? If any of my friends see me this way...

JACOB

An' why the hell would I ask your friends to come see ya? Also, you had to do somethin' for the whole "Bring ya kid to work" day. We both know your momma doesn't work.

JAKE

Exactly, I should've stayed with her instead of coming here! This is stupid! I could've gotten a day off! None of my friends are doing this stupid thing anyways! All of them are chilling back at home.

JACOB

Come on now, Jake. Be a good boy, we have some floor to wipe.

Both boys grab a mop and exit the janitor's closet.

int - Hallway - continuous

The two boys are seen in the distance, mopping the floors. Jacob is whistling a tune while Jake simply looks angry. He doesn't seem to be doing his job that well, for his father is always pointing out spots that he's missed.

Turning a corner are Mike and Annie. They both halt since the janitor's cart are there.

MIKE

Good morning, Jacob!

JACOB

(Turns around after pointing out another spot)

Mornin' to you too, Mike!

Jake turns around and stares at Annie. A small smirk curls up on his face, yet he remains quiet.

MIKE

(Notices Jake eyeing his daughter)

Is that your son that you've brought along today? I don't ever recall you mentioning our kids went to school together!

JACOB

Aye, sir, this is my son! But I don't think that they go to school together... Jacob, say hello to one of our security guards and his pretty daughter. Anna, am I correct?

ANNIE

My name's Annie, sir.

JAKE

(Winces at his father's stupidity before turning his attention back to the girl)

Call me Jake. I come from Southburn High.

ANNIE

(Makes a disgusted face)

I'm from Longstar High School, I'm a--

JACOB

(Looking visibly stunned)

Longstar? Mike, your daughter goes to Longstar High?

MIKE

(With obvious pride)

Yes, sir, she does. Best student in her grade too. She tapped an average of ninety-nine on the entrance exam.

The Intercom (P.A) suddenly buzzes, it's a metallic-sounding female voice.

P.A.

Janitor to front desk, please, a janitor to the from desk. Thank you.

JACOB

Guess that's me, eh?

JAKE

Don't you mean us? I'm a janitor too, for the day.

JACOB

They said 'a' janitor, son, which means they only want one. I'm gonna go.

Jacob exits while whistling a western tune and jiggling his keys on his keychain. His mop was propped against the wall, forgotten behind.

Jake now looks uncomfortable. He's beginning to start slowly swiping the ground, appearing resentful.

Mike is suddenly smirking to the camera, in such an angle that neither kids can see him. A gleeful look plays in his eyes for a few seconds, before turning serious.

MIKE

(Handing his daughter some change)

Hey kids, how about you both take a break? It's ten right now, so you can both go down to the vending machine and buy yourself some snacks. Annie, pay the boy a snack, there's enough money for the both of you. Now be nice, both of you, you hear?

Before neither can respond to that, Mike exits in long, meaningful strides. There's a smile playing in his features- he seems quite proud of himself.

ANNIE

(Looking slightly disdainful)

Well, I guess I have to pay you some food.

JAKE

(Nods)

Chill, you can help the poor kid from Southburn get some food instead of starving.

They both leave together, Annie holding her head high while Jake glares at his scruffed Nikes.

int - another hallway- continuous

This hallway is different than the others. Instead of being bare hallways with only portraits, this one has completely bare walls. Instead, there are doors lined up, with names written on each door.

Enter Jake and Annie as they walk through the hallway.

JAKE

What is this place?

ANNIE

(Surprised and a bit disgusted)

Oh, don't tell me this is the first time you come here?

JAKE

I have no business here. Dad works as a floor-mopper, not a high-importance security guard. I don't come here for the fun of it, unlike you.

ANNIE

(Halts)

Neither do I.

JAKE

(Halts also)

Oh, girls like you... I've seen my share of them. Little daddy's girl, gets money all the time, always does every single thing by the book

JAKE

(To the side)

A typical Longstar student.

ANNIE obviously hears that comment, for she sends him a huge glare. Crossing her arms in utter annoyance, her face reddens with anger.

annie

Don't you dare think you know me! It's not because I'm not a South burnout that I have to be a little priss.

JAKE

You're not better than I at judging. Who says every Southburn student has to be a burnout?
(accent on the 'burn')

ANNIE

(With challenge in her voice and a mischievous smile on her face)

You think I'm Daddy's little girl who always follows the rules?

JAKE

Of course.

ANNIE

Then dare me to do something.

JAKE

You're... kidding, right?

ANNIE

Most certainly not. Come on, dare me something!

After looking at her quite strangely for a few seconds, Jake starts looking around. He walks a few steps and stops in front of a door with the name "KRISTY" displayed on it in a shiny gold plaque. He raises his knuckles and knocks a few times. No answer. He then tries the doorknob and it twists, therefore, is unlocked.

JAKE

Alright then. Miss Priss wants a dare, she'll get one!
(He smirks)
Go inside the woman's lodge and go steal something. Then come right back out and go give it to the "Lost and Found" department.

ANNIE

(Smirks confidently)

Count me in!

Annie disappears inside the lodge confidently, letting the door half-close behind her. Jake begins to slowly walk away.

jake

(On the side)

If someone turns the corner, I bolt.

Seconds go by. Jake looks at his watch a few times, nervously grinning as two distinguished-looking men walk by. When they way is clear, he frowns and goes to peer inside the lodge. The camera only catches the expression of his face as he winces.

JAKE

Annie! What are you doing, come on!

There is no answer off camera.

JAKE

(Steps inside the room)

Annie!

The camera cuts and reopens inside the room, so we can only see Jake's face, the open door behind him, and the beige walls. He is frowning and appears angry at her.

JAKE

Come on! Why are you just standing there?

INT - KRIsty's lodge - continuous

The camera whirls to see Annie at the end of the extensive room. She has a goofy hat on and is pretending to apply some expensive-looking makeup with a girly giggle.

We now get to see the room. It's entirely painted beige, an ugly carpet. But besides that, there's nothing less than tremendously glamorous about the room. There are clothing, shoes, and accessories littering the place.

The Camera shoots over to Annie, who is now smelling the various perfumes all perfectly-aligned one besides the other on the vanité.

JAKE

I guess I was wrong after all. Longstar students are all stupid preps! Now, let's get out of here!

annie

(Moves away from him and sits down on a leather sofa)

Gosh, I was mistaken too! I expected you to be all gangster, but you're the chicken one! Why are you freaking? At worst, we can say that we were just cleaning the room!

JAKE

(Rolling his eyes)

You look ready to take this lodge and call it your own. I'm sure everyone would believe your story in a blink of an eye.

As he was speaking, he turns around to leave, but his foot catches a drawer that had been left half open. It slides open and clatters to the floor, sending tons of lacy underwear spilling over the carpet.

ANNIE

(Roars in laughter)

Way to go, punk! Now pick them up!

JAKE

(His face flaming with embarrassment)

You pick it up. It's girl stuff, I won't touch it.

ANNIE

You made the mess.

JAKE

You lingered in here! If you would've come out when I told you to, then this wouldn't have happened.

ANNIE

But you dared me in the first place to come in.

JAKE

(Groans in complete frustration)

Fine! I'll pick them up.

Jake begins to pick up the undergarment, looking away from them.

annie

(Teasingly)

You're blushing! (Repetitively)

Suddenly, though, as he's picking up a pair of dark nylon socks, his hand crushes something that makes a small paper-crunching sound. Frowning, he brings his eyes down and looks at the sock thoughtfully.

Meanwhile, Annie had gotten up to look at a cabinet, where many trophies of "Best Actress" and various awards. Hearing no more shuffling behind her, she turns around.

ANNIE

Hey, Jake, you know that you don't have to stare at the clothing to put them away, right? I know it must be hard for you, but the poor woman deserves privacy.

Jake ignores her. He begins to shove his hand inside the sock.

ANNIE

Woah! Stop that now, will you?

She rapidly crosses the room and grabs the nylon stocking. She pulls it away, but Jake already had what he was searching for. Since she took the stocking away, now all that's left in his hand is a crumpled letter.

JAKE

(Looks up with a smirk)

Curious?

ANNIE

(Now appearing nervous. She fidgets and looks around.)

No. If these are her little secret love letters, we should keep them as they were before- secret. This is none of our business. I think you should take your own advice and leave.

JAKE

Now that I've found something interesting? No thank you!

He slowly unfurls the paper, taking his time to further annoy Annie. But as he reads, his face loses his smile.

ANNIE

What? Are you jealous of the guy?

JAKE

(Shakes his head and stuffs the letter back in the sock)

Actually, you're right. Let's get out of here! Right now would be a good idea!

Jake jumps up and stomps towards the door, but Annie only grabs the letter back from its original place. Sitting down on the carpeted floor, she opens it up and begins to read to herself in a whisper. The words are written in bold/italic Arial 12 print, all on yellowed paper.

ANNIE

(Whisper as she reads)

Dear Kristy,
Last night was really fun. You were so gorgeous, with that tight, hot silver dress. Just so you know, I have a blade the same color as that dress.

You also wore those little deep red pumps on your delicate feet. I'm guessing it was to match right? Not the dress, honey, not the dress. Your blood. The same blood that I'll spill once my beloved blade crosses your throat.

Forever your biggest fan,
-T

Time seems to stand still. There's no noise anywhere. Annie is rereading the death threat once more while Jake h stands ds quietly in the background.

annie

Oh my God, Jake. This is serious.

jake

It's the occasional death threat. Superstars like Kristy should get them by the bucketful.

ANNIE

We have to do something.

Suddenly, in the distance, a whistling sound pops up. The tune "Saints Come Marching Down", with the sound of jiggling keys.

ANNIE

(Whispers with a worried expression)

Your dad?

In a desperate attempt to hide their location, Jake lunges at the door and slams it shut. A few seconds pass yet the whistling continues.

Jake

(Carefully walking over.)

He's probably mopping the hallway. We'll have to be quiet if we don't want to get caught.

ANNIE

I know, Jake. I'm the smartest of my grade, remember?

Annie plops back onto the couch as Jake finishes to pick up the scattered underwear.

int - shooting set - Time unknown

The camera fades in to reveal a very disorganized-looking movie shooting set. A scene of the inside of a grubby apartment is being set up by a few burly-looking men, while actors and actresses hussle around. A few are discussing and shooting back lines, a few are trying to do some last-minute studying. Suddenly the Director, KIRK, a middle-aged plain looking man appears and everyone quiets down. The scene is now ready, the on-screen camera starts rolling.

An actor and an actress show up on screen. They are both immaculately prepared for this shoot and look beautiful.

First to enter is PHIL, a brown-haired man with almond-shaped eyes and a dazzling smile. He is currently wearing loose jeans, dirty grey shoes, and a plain white tee-shirt. He's cleanly shaved and his hair is combed to perfection.

He is followed by KRISTY, bleach-blonde woman with gorgeous skin and body. She has a much-too glamourous outfit on- a hot tight blue dress under a white fur jacket and black stilettos. Diamonds glitter over her, making her see out of place in the decor of the scene.

phil

(Flirtatiously)

Welcome to my house, honey. Want a tour?

Everyone in the room is watching except one person. The Director rolls his eyes and furiously waves at someone to be silent. KRISTY shrugs off her jacket sensually and twirls it around before tossing it on the ground.

kristy

You know I don't give a damn what this house looks like, hon. You know what I really want.

She moves towards him and locks her arms around his. Their lips meet and they start to kiss. He backs her up against the wall, where she starts to run her hands all over him.

kirk

Okay! Cut, we'll have to do this over again! Bimbo in the back was whispering, it'll spill over the tape.

Phil breaks away from KRISTY and wipes his mouth, a disgusted look on his face. Kristy only pouts her full lips and fluffs her hair.

PHIL

Aw, come on, man! Why can't we just do a voice-over! We've been shooting this scene for hours now!

Actor 1

Why are you complaining, man? You're freaking making out with her! I wouldn't be whining if I were you!

A few laughs ripple through the studio. Kirk silences them all with a glare.

KIRK

One last time, Phil. Come on everyone, positions! Standby, camera one, standby music...

KRISTY

(Stepping off the stage)

Not now, baby. Let me get a drink first!

KIRK

(Sighs)

Fine, sweetheart. Take five, everyone!

PHIL

(Throwing his arms up in the air out of frustration)

Oh, hell no! I want to get rid of this thing today! I'm sick of having her all up in my face!

Everyone turns deathly silent. They turn to watch the showdown between the two.

KRISTY

(Turning defensive)

Think I want to, loser? A freak like you doesn't even deserve to kiss me.

They glare for a few moments.

KIRK

Alright, Phil, back off from her alright. Kristy, hon, do you think we're ready to shoot this scene, now?

PHIL

Oh hell no, I'm out of here. I've had enough for the day!

He stomps away and leaves the room angrily.

KIRK

(Sighs and rubs his forehead)

Fine then. Let's move on to scene seven, where we see Kristy come in the fast food restaurant and..

The rest of his speech fades as the camera fades on Kristy, who looks terribly annoyed.

INT - KRISTY'S LODGE - A few minutes after

Camera shows Annie sneaking through the various articles in the superstar's closet, as Jake looks through her library.

ANNIE

(Pulls out a long box)

I wonder what this is...

JAKE

Hey come on, now, Annie. You promised you wouldn't touch anything anymore!

annie

Look who's talking! You were staring at photos of her not ten seconds ago.

jake

(Looking guiltily away)

But these were photos, okay! It doesn't matter! You're looking at personal matters, we could be arrested for that!

ANNIE

(Suddenly thoughtful)

It's from "T" again... It says so on the box...

JAKE

(Walks to her and stops behind her to peer over her shoulder)

Open it.

ANNIE

So much for the whole "we could be arrested" speech.

She opens the box and her breath catches again. Jake peers over the top of her head as the camera angles so we can see inside the box.

Inside, a long dagger is tucked between a long piece of a sheet. It's white in the background, with black roses and navy blue leaves. But the sheet is stained with what appears to be dried blood. Annie instantly closes the box and has to restrain herself from throwing up.

JAKE

(Picks up the letter)

What kind of sick maniac is that...?

annie

(Fearfully)

What does it say, Jake?

JAKE

Hold on...

Dearest Kristy,
My love for your blood can only grow. It grows so much that only I have the mental capability to draw your blood without a mark on your body.

You see, all that dried liquid came from you, Kristy. That's how close to you I've been. Next time, though, this cloth won't be the only thing tainted- it'll be my entire home.

Much love,
-T

Jake

God that guy is creepy...

ANNIE

And insane. Damn it, Jake, let's get out of here alright? Now I'm convinced, we can't stay here much longer! What if that guy comes after us! What if he actually works with Kristy!

JAKE

Calm down, Annie. Plus we can't get out of here until my dad leaves the hallway. We'd be in big trouble if we're caught.

annie

But we can't back out now, Jake! Can you imagine how the poor girl must feel?

jake

Well it's none of our business. We're not private detectives, there's nothing we can do.

ANNIE

Fine then! But I'm going to find out who these threats are from, with or without your help!

Annie gets up and marches to a drawer. As she opens it, she finds other threats, plucks one out randomly. Jake just groans and shakes his head, putting the bloodied knife away.

INT - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS

Enter Phil coming back from the shoot. He's still angry and turns a corner way too rapidly, running directly in Mike. The latter thankfully catches him and keeps the both of them from falling over

MIKE

(Pulling away with a laugh)

Woah, watch out Phil! Isn't this studio now filming the movie "Protector"? Seems to me like you're training to play in another "Terminator" movie soon!

PHIL

Aw, sorry man. Just came back from shooting another love scene with Kristy. Why the hell do I always get the dirty roles?

mike

You're young, wanted, and you can sell a good story. Plus most people who watch these kind of movies are teenage girls. The boys only watch it if there's a hot girl in a tight outfit. Hence why you and Kristy are in most make out scenes.

PHIL

Touché.

MIKE

Uh, you sure you're okay, Phil? You look a bit angry...

PHIL

It's Kristy again. She's being such a... Gosh, I don't even know how to explain it. Let's just say she's being "herself" again.

mike

Too bad she's so beautiful. If she wasn't, Kirk would've kicked her out a long time ago.

PHIL

Oh, I know that!

There's an awkward silence. Mike seems about to leave, but Phil suddenly frowns.

phil

Hey, weren't there kids here today? Kirk said I was supposed to tell them a bit about acting, since Kristy wanted nothing to do with them.

phil

(To the side)

Once again stuck doing her dirty jobs.

mike

Oh yeah, my daughter Annie is here. She met Jacob Sr's son, Jacob Jr. They ran off together somewhere.

phil

They better not be sneaking around. I finally got rid of that annoying fangirl that kept sneaking past every clerk up front and every security officer.

The two begin walking after a nod from Phil.

mike

Wasn't she annoying? No matter how many times we told her to leave, she wouldn't.

phil

I know. But I cornered her. I gave her a few threats that I'd harm her, to be honest. She ran off crying.

Both men laugh as the camera starts to fade. The last thing we see is a menacing glint in Phil's face.

INT - KRISTY'S LODGE - CONTINUOUS

Jake is leaning against the door, his ear glued to the wood. He's listening intently, while Annie watches him.

annie

Is he gone yet?

jake

I think so... Let's wait just a minute okay? Just in case he comes back to pick up something.

annie

This room is starting to give me the creeps.

JAKE

What did you find out while you sneaked, anyways?

annie

(Pensively)

It comes from a man, since some letters graphically describe her body. He's a fanatical lover apparently, though he kept saying stuff like "Every time you kiss me, I want to slit your throat open".

jake

Ooh, romantic. I'm certain he'll gain her heart that way.

ANNIE

I think it may be an ex-boyfriend! Think about it! He's jealous, angry, and wants to scare her! But inside, he only misses her and--

Jake

Alright, enough sleuthing! Let's go!

He gets up and goes over to her. Grabbing her hand, he ushers her towards the door. But as they are halfway there, they both halt and stands there nervously.

We hear in the distance stilettos striking the polished floor hardly, systematically. Before they can even look at each other, the door is thrown open and in comes Kristy. As soon as she sees them, she utters a long scream and backs away.

KRISTY

God! Can't Phil ever do his job?

ANNIE

Oh, I'm sorry ma'am, but we were just looking for... um...

KRISTY

Be quiet, dear! Did Kirk tell you that I was supposed to be the one to tell you about my life? Well he lied, dears. Go find Phil, alright, he'll take care of you both! Oh, and don't you call me "ma'am" again, I feel old! My name is Kristy!

ANNIE

But we--

JAKE

(Cuts her off by stepping forward and smiling to Kristy)

Thanks for your time, though, Kristy. We'll go find Phil now!

KRISTY

You do that, dear! Oh, and you're both a couple, how adorable!

The two notice they're still holding hands and Annie struggles to break free, but Jake clings tighter.

JAKE

Thank you, Kristy. We'll go right away!

The two contour the stunning movie star, who tosses her head back with a long sigh. She begins muttering about how she hates Phil as the door closes behind her. The two teens hurry along the hallways.

JAKE

(Dropping her hand)

Holy crap, that was Kristy! The Kristy! I talked to her! Wait till all my friends hear about this!

annie

You can tell them you lied to her! Who the heck is Phil anyways?

JAke

(Punches the air in victory)

Probably a co-star! But who cares! We got to get out of her lodge without getting in trouble! Dude, how cool is that! Plus I got to talk with her!

annie

You're hopeless, Jake. Seriously. She's just a person, like you and I! She poops just like you do!

jake

(Wrinkles his nose)

You have no class.

ANNIE

Well since you seem so enamored of her, how about we do a bit of detective work. From what I've read of the death threats, it's someone really close to her. We have to find out who it is.

jake

(Eagerly)

Deal!

ANNIE

(Mutters off camera)

Hopeless...

JAKE

So where do we start?

Just as he asks, MIKE and PHIL turn the corner. ANNIE instantly smiles at PHIL.

MIKE

Well here's my stunning daughter! Where have you been all this time?

ANNIE

We were walking around.

JAKE

And we talked to Kristy for a bit.

ANNIE

(Shooting Jake a warning glare)

Yeah, but she was in a rush. She didn't have time for us.

PHIL

She doesn't have time for anybody, so don't worry about it.

MIKE

How about you both follow Phil around, hm? He can show you the studio through the eyes of an actor.

ANNIE

Oh that would be perfect sir!

Phil steps forward and shakes both teenagers' hands. The camera fades as he ushers them towards his own lodge.

INT - Phil's lodge - Continuous

They zoom in on a lodge similar to Kristy's, only definitely more masculine. It's also more messy, with clothes lying around, newspaper and boxes covering the couches. Jake, Phil, and Annie are in the room. He is just ushering them in.

PHIL

Welcome to my domain! This is where I hide from Kirk usually, even though he finds me all the time.

ANNIE

It's a nice lodge.

PHIL

Now, I know you're lying. It's rather messy, but I refuse any janitor to enter my room, the pests.

Annie suddenly gawks and Jake darkens.

jake

Excuse me?

PHIL

Most of them are losers hired because they begged anyways.

JAKE

(Trembling with anger)

Take that back.

PHIL

(Suddenly realizing his mistake)

Ah, man, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to throw this as an insult directly at you or your dad. He's probably the only janitor I'd consider entering my room.

jake

Bull. Keep trying to cover your mistakes. Now I know what you really think of me.

He turns to leave the room, but Annie grabs his arm.

annie

Don't leave, Jake. Phil surely has an explanation for what he just said.

PHIL

I do. Some old janitor, about a year ago, would nicely come into my room and steal my stuff. I'm quite a forgetful person, so when a thing or two would go missing, I wouldn't make anything out of it.

JAKE

How can you be so sure that it was a janitor?

phil

Oh, I installed a few camras in my room. I only had to climb up in the sound control room and I could see anything going on in my lodge. I caught the old guy sneaking through my things.

annie

(Triumphantly)

See! So that's a reason why he doesn't trust janitors to enter.

PHIL

I don't allow anyone in, to be honest. So you guys are special!

They share a laugh and then Phil starts showing them various oscars he's won, telling them about films he played.

annie

What film are you acting in, right now, Phil?

PHIL

A new romantic drama with Kristy called "The Protector". Technically it's just our characters meeting and getting together. Then I die tragically while saving her life and leave her behind pregnant with our son.

annie

Sounds good! I'll be sure to go see it!

PHIL

It would be good if only I didn't have Kristy as a co-worker. She's such a stupid whore, it's insane. I keep having to kiss her over and over again because Kirk's never happy with the scenes and I--

jake

(Obviously jealous)

How about you tell us about your future movie? Any hopes?

As Phil launches in the middle of an explanation when his cellphone rings. He excuses himself and leaves the room to take the call, all after warning them not to touch anything.

JAKE

I hate him, the stupid arrogant bastard.

ANNIE

Watch your words. I find him quite charming, to be honest.

JAKE

Well the whole incident with his hatred of "janitors" didn't quite help my mood.

ANNIE

(Scoffs)

It's just because he mentioned he had to kiss Kristy that you got all jealous.

jake

He called her a stupid whore! How can you still find him charming?

ANNIE

Um, how about because he might be right?

jake

Whatever. That's still not the reason why I don't like him.

ANNIE

Then what?

JAKE

I don't know.

He gets up and walks towards a closed cupboard. He opens the cupboard and starts looking through his stuff.

annie

Jake! Stop it! Why are you going through his stuff! You have no right to do that!

JAKE

You did it to Kristy, I can do it to Phil.

He stops through that cupboard and moves to a drawer at the bottom. After emptying it, he frowned.

JAKE

Something's not right...

He knocks a bit on the bottom, then smirks victoriously. After messing around, he reveals a fake bottom. Annie stands up, but before she can go closer Jake speaks.

JAKE

Well I was right. Again. God I'm smart, I should enroll in Longstar.

annie

What?

He suddenly turns around and throws a bundle of cloth. She catches it before glaring at him.

ANNIE

What the hell is this?

Since he's looking hard at her, she unfurls the fabric and her face twists in shock. It's the same fabric that the bloody knife was wrapped into.

ANNIE

(Throws the cloth back)

Put that back now, come sit down.

jake

(Obeying her, but still with a smile on his face)

I told you he was crooked. I knew it the second that he walked into the room.

ANNIE

It still might not be him...

jake

What else evidence do you want? We should get out right now and go tell your dad.

ANNIE

Why my dad?

jake

He's a security guard. He'll know what to do with this. It probably happens to him every two or three weeks anyways.

ANNIE

(Hearing footsteps)

Shh, he's coming back.

The door is busted open. But instead of Phil, Kirk is standing there with an annoyed expression on his face.

KIRK

Sorry guys, but Phil's left the building. Emergency at home or something.

Jake and Annie look at each other.

JAKE

And who are you?

KIRK

Argh, I don't have time for this. Kristy's waiting for me in the car. I'm the director of this entire shoot, alright? Now you two can chill around the studio, but not in the lodges. Oh, and don't bother the Producers. God knows how they have work to do, especially today.

As he says so, he steps out the door and angrily motions them to pass through it. They do so, and Kirk slams the door shut and exits.

ANNIE

Well that was odd.

JAKE

Kinda. It's almost as if he knew that we had caught him. Almost as if...

both

(Suddenly)

The cameras.

ANNIE

Damn we're stupid, Jake! No, what am I saying? You are the stupid one! I told you not to sneak around! Now he's probably told that dude who just walked out that we searched through his stuff!

jake

No he didn't; or else the guy would've been angrier. He could've kicked us out of the entire studio, but instead he told us to stay out of the lodges.

ANNIE

What do we do now? Phil's gone home, Kristy and Kirk are out to dinner. It's eleven-thirty, so dad still has a half hour to work before his lunchtime.

P.A.

Jacob Jr, please report to front desk please, Jacob Jr.

JAKE

(Smirks)

That's my lunch hour! Guess you'll have to stalk the corridors on your own for that time! Chow!

He exits. She walks until she reaches the production room.

int - Production room - continuous

The room is empty because everyone's out to lunch. She finds the teleprompter and sits down to read the lines. Then she notices something and narrows her eyes. Clicking on the mouse of the computer, she speaks;

annie

(To herself)

That's written in Arial 10. But who plays "Taylor?". Could be either a male or female, for all I know.

The camera flashes to the screen, where she attempts to find a list of the cast. She comes across an encrypted page, wincing as she does so. There's a little post-it-note on the computer telling her the password's in the audio room.

She heads there.

int - Audio Room - Continuous

Annie enters and starts searching. She finds quick jolts on a board from the boys working there about how hot Kristy looks, how arrogant Kirk is. There's one that says "Who cares if she's sexy? She should drop dead, maybe we could then be ourselves!"

Annie's looking around, now feeling strange. She finds more scary threats, the atmosphere is dark and scary. The door suddenly bursts open, shockingly. Kirk steps in, searching for something, and jumps as he sees her.

kirk

What the hell are you doing here?

ANNIE

Well you told me to stay out of the lodge. I was just curious, I wanted to see the set and how everything was working.

KIRK

Right, true.
(He sighs)
Just don't touch anything alright?
(He grabs a coat but then looks at her.)
Can I help you with something?

ANNIE

Yeah, actually. I was wondering who played Taylor in the movie you are all filming.

KIRK

Is the teleprompter locked again? All the cast and crew names are there, if you're curious.

He approaches her. The lights dim as he reach out to find a logbook. He opens it up and finds the passwords on a long sheet.

He takes another blank sheet and writes her the password, handing it to her.

ANNIE

Thank you, sir.

KIRK

No problem. And don't strain your eyes, the paper is yellow.

He laughs and shakes his head.

kirk

Everyone in the studio always prizes themselves on their pristine white paper. I just grab the cheapest, so it's always yellowed.

Sudden flashback to Annie pulling out the death threat, holding it up. A yellow paper. Flash is over and she's holding the same paper, in the same position. She looks up and her eyes connect with Kirk. He suddenly loses his smile.

kirk

Something wrong?

ANNIE

(Chokingly)

No. I gotta go.

She moves to get past him, but he grabs her arm. She struggles to let go, but he tightens his grip on her.

KIRK

Last time something like this happened, I had annoying girls sneaking into my offices at night. Why the sudden change of emotion, kid?

ANNIE

Let me go!

They struggle a bit.

KIRK

I don't like rodents who sneak around. I don't like liars either, girl. I'll take this sheet back, please.

There's a sound under them as a door is opened.

MIKE

Annie! You here?

Kirk rips away from her.

KIRK

(Quietly, urgently)

Don't you tell anyone what happened. I'm sorry, I overreacted.

He turns around and leaves by another door. Annie just sinks to the ground and shuts. Mike eventually leaves, shutting the lights and rendering her in complete darkness. She stays there for a while before slipping out of the audio room.

INT - SHOOTING SET - continuous

She is probing through the darkness as she makes her way towards the teleprompter. Kirk hadn't taken back the paper with the password.

Just as she sits down, she hears a male singing. Suspenseful music as she tries to find out who it is, then slams the lights on. FRANKIE, 50-year-old writer, is sitted in the middle of the set with a notebook opened in his lap, humming a tune. He looks up as the lights are being opened.

annie

Um... hi.

frankie

Why hello there! How are you?

He stands and brushes off his clothing.

annie

I'm fine, thank you... Who are you?

frankie

Who am I? Well, dearie, call me Frankie! I work with Kirk through most of his movies, I'm a writer!

annie

Why were you sitting in the dark? Singing?

frankie

(Laughing)

Hm, a good author must get into their character, no? In my future script, the characters are all stuck in a movie studio, at nighttime. I was trying to get a little inspiration right now!

ANNIE

I see... Well I'll leave you be then.

She heads to the teleprompter and types in the password. Frankie follows her though.

FRANKIE

Annie, am I correct?

ANNIE

(Turns around to face him)

How do you know who I am?

FRANKIE

Two scripts ago, my main character was named Annie. Your father kept saying it was his daughter's name, so it stuck to me all these months. Now that I see your resemblance to your poppa, you see, I instantly knew who you were!

Password doesn't work. Annie tries typing it again, only to find it unworking.

FRANKIE

Searching for something?

annie

Kirk must've given me the wrong password, it's okay.

FRANKIE

What do you need to know from the teleprompter anyways?

annie

Just curious, that's all.

Suddenly enter Jake. He's holding Annie's backpack.

JAKE

There you are, Annie. Your dad had been looking for you for quite a while.

frankie

And that must be Jacob Jr! Gosh, do kids look like their parents these days!

JAKE

Um... hi. And you are

ANNIE
His name's Frankie. He's an author.
(To Frankie) Maybe you can help me. I was just reading the lines and I noticed that there wasn't a character page. I was just curious, that's all.

FRANKIE

Who would you like to know?

ANNIE

How about who Taylor is? Could be both a guy or a girl.

frankie

Taylor's a guy. Played by our very own Phil. Great guy, awesome actor! He just fits in with Taylor perfectly, almost as if they understand each other and--

He suddenly drops his pencil. It rolls away underneath a chair. Frankie gets up to fetch it.

ANNIE

(Whispering)

Noticed how "Taylor's" font is in Arial 10, with parts bold and italicized?

jake

(Nods in understanding)

I see.

FRANKIE

(Overhearing)

Aw, heck, they all have their own little quirks. Phil always keeps his font in Arial 10, while Kirk's obsession is light yellow paper. I'm sure you both have little tibits that make you unique.

He goes back to hunting for his pencil.

ANNIE

(Uber quiet)

Can we trust him with what we know?

jake

(Continuous)

Let me work this out.
(Out loud)
So you're an author, Frankie.

FRANKIE

Yes I am! Proud to be one!

jake

So you accept ideas, right?

FRANKIE

Of course I do! Shoot ahead.

He finds his pencil and sits down upon Kirk's chair.

jake

Alright, so say there's a famous movie star. We can make her go through a series of death threats.

FRANKIE

Amazing idea!

jake

And let's say she receives a few death threats, all from the same guy.

frankie

Awesome! I love!

jake

Then the threats go deeper. Say the man who'd send her these would start sending her bloodied knives wrapped around a special patterned cloth.

frankie

Wow, such imagination!

JAKE

Later on, we discover the same cloth in her co-star's lodge.

FRANKIE

I'm shocked! I must use your idea!

JAKE

Plus the co-star completely hates the girl, which makes it ten times more plausible for him to be the one sending her the threats.

frankie

More! More!

JAKE

Well that's the problem! I don't know how to end my story. I thought maybe you could help me actually.

FRANKIE

(Losing his smile and turning serious)

You really thought I was this stupid?

ANNIE

What?

FRANKIE

So I guess I'm not the only one who has noticed it correct? Phil's hatred for Kristy? And you're saying you found a bloodied knife wrapped in a cloth?

JAKE

No! It was just a story! Just a rough draft of one! I swear!

FRANKIE

Much too well-detailed for a rough draft, Jake. Plus Annie's face said it all.

Jake and Annie both lower their heads guiltily.

FRANKIE

Now how about you tell me the entire story?

The door suddenly opens. Enter Mike.

MIKE

Oh, Annie, there you are! I thought you'd both like to get out of here for a little while, since most people are out to lunch. How does that sound?

annie

But Jake brought me some lunch!

mike

I know. I just thought that, since you've both been here since seven and it's now two, that we could get out for a little while. Come on, it'll be fun for you both.

frankie

I was entertaining them, Mike!

mike

(Smiling lightly)

Thanks, Frankie. But kids, come on.

Both Annie and mike stand up and they start to leave. After stepping out of the studio...

INT - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS

MIKE

(Grinning)

I wanted to make sure that you guys didn't have to listen to old Frankie's endless tales.

Annie and Jake look at each other with slight frustration.

ANNIE

He's quite interesting, dad. He was telling us how he was writing The Protector.

jake

Yeah, he's a pretty clever guy.

mike

(Laughing)

Oh the man's insane. He's gone a little bit senile, I think- everyone thinks so. Old Frankie's always doing weird things- running like crazy in circles, trying to eat peanuts for an entire day. Crap like that.

JAKE

It's his inspiration.

ANNIE

Yeah, he was sitting in the dark, singing, when I showed up.

mike

Scary fellow. Don't stay alone with him, okay Annie? I don't trust him. Anyone else but him.

They all exit.

ext - Outside a department store - late afternoon

Jake and Annie are standing just outside a department store, waiting besides a car. The sun is shining brilliantly.

JAKE

I can't believe your dad brought us shopping.

ANNIE

Well it would've been obvious that something was up if we would've declined.

JAKE

If you would've declined, yeah. My dad doesn't even know I'm here! I'll probably get grounded forever.

ANNIE

Plus I'm not going back to the studio. We'll just dump you there and head out.

jake

In my opinion, it's better that way.

ANNIE

(Stunned)

What do you mean?

JAKE

This whole thing with Kristy could get dangerous or ugly. It would be better if you'd head back home and forget this entire thing.

ANNIE

(Defiantly now)

I'm not forgetting this entire thing. No way. Also I'm not letting you forget this either, and you won't be the only one to do some sleuthing.

Annie looks over her shoulder once. Then, suddenly, she lunges forward and gives him a big hug, kissing his cheek happily. Jake uneasily holds her back, before seeing why she had done so.

JAKE

(Pushing her away, yet keeping a forced smile on his face)

Bitch.

ANNIE

Guess I'll have to see you again now, won't I?

The camera now moves so that we can see what Annie's plan was. Enter Mike, who is heading their way with a knowing smirk on his face. He obviously saw them hug.

MIKE

Why, hello lovebirds. I'm glad I got out this early of the shop, who knows what you two might've been doing.

ANNIE

Oh, don't you worry dad! We're fine!

In the process she grabs Jake's hand and looks at him. He gives Mike a brilliant smile, yet he looks a bit strained.

JAKE

Of course, sir. Uh, with your permission to date her, of course.

annie

Please daddy?

MIKE

(Laughing)

Ah, young love. I give you my word that you can have her, Jake. You seem like a good boy, after all.

annie

Oh, thank you daddy!

mike

Now hop in the car. I have to bring Jake back to his father, and you to your mom before she has a fit.

All three climb in the car and drive off. Camera fades for a few seconds, screen is black.

int - The mckeen kitchen - Next day, morning

Jacob Sr and EVELYN, his wife, are sitting in front of a copious breakfast. The clock clearly reads 6:50 am. Evelyn is older than her husband, with softly curled gray hair and a smile that could charm anyone. She's wearing black puffy pants, a white shirt, and a bright red apron. They're making small talk about the weather, nothing important the the script.

Enter Jake, wearing only his pajamas, enter the room. He looks fresh out of bed and disheveled.

JAKE

Morning.

JACOB

Morning, son. Ready to quit the janitor's life and start over with school?

They begin eating.

evelyn

Oh, I'm so glad you had a good time, sweetie! Plus Jacob just told me that you met a lovely little lady?

JAKE

(Looking miffed at having it brought up)

Yeah, her name's Annie Fraser.

EVELYN

Oh, how adorable. Our son's gotten himself a real girlfriend, Jacob.

JACOB

A bit better than what you've brought home last time.

jake

Caryn was perfectly fine.

EVELYN

Oh sweetie, she was literally flunking out of school. Drug user, drinker, partier... I'm glad it's over between you two, and I hope this Annie is nicer than her.

JACOB

She's a Longstar High student!

EVELYN

Well, isn't that even better? We could invite her over this weekend to...

The audio fades to reveal a suspenseful song. Jake suddenly reaches over and grabs the day's newspaper.

JACOB

You okay, son?

JAKE

Gotta get ready for school.

He gets up from his chair and, after grabbing a few more bites and downing his orange juice, he rushes upstairs. The camera is pointed on the journal, with Kristy's photo on top, and the words "MOVIE STAR THREATENS TO QUIT JOB" written over her picture.

int - Southburn high - 3:30 pm

The bell suddenly rings. All students burst out of their classrooms and made a beeline for their lockers. We see all kind of people, more "Street" than anyone else. Bums, pimps, sluts, gothics, punks.

Enter Jacob, wearing baggy jeans and a black teeshirt, his blond hair spiked in a half-Mohawk. Some girls gawk at him, but he ignores them and heads to his beaten down locker. Someone is being pushed around, beaten up, in the far-end corridor, but he ignores them and instead grabs his backpack and skateboard, and heads out. He seems thoughtful and avoids DUKE, a black guy of about 6'3 and 200 pounds of pure muscle, obviously gangster.

duke

(Yelling over the crowd)

Hey, homie! Jake! Come to chill! The girls are coming after man, we'll take out some bottles and party like rock stars!

JAKE

Sorry, man, can't tonight. I have shit to do at home.

Without another word, he jumps on his skateboard, still inside the school, and rolls out through the doors.

ext - Longstar high - 4:00 pm

The bell rings, a soft preppy sound. It takes a few minutes before students start filing out of the school.

In contrast to Southburn, Longstar's students are all dressed to perfection. The girls in knee-length skirts and crisp pale shirts, most under a feminine blazer and all wearing high heels. Boys are wearing the entire suits, their hair neatly cut and faces shaved.

Out comes Annie, wearing a black pencil skirt, black heels, and a light pink shirt. Her hair had been curled his morning and pinned back with pins, her makeup perfectly done. She's followed by two other girls and they're talking together. They stop with another group of people to discuss.

We hear suddenly some comments in the background, the camrea staying fixed on Annie.

Female student 1

Hey!

male student 1

Woah, careful!

FEMALE STUDENT 1

He's insane!

male student 2

Who does he think he is?

MALE STUDENT 1

Probably some stupid Southburn loser!

Enter Jake on top of his skateboard. He BARELY MANAGES another turn around a distinguished-looking teacher before stopping and looking around. His eyes stop on Annie. Camera zooms out and we see how out of place he looks.

JAKE

(Cupping his hands to his mouth)

Annie! (Repetitive)

After a while she hears him and turns around to look at him. Her face falls and all of her friends turn to stare in utter disdain. He wheels closer to her and stops again, SCOOPING down to pick the skateboard. No one's speaking.

JAKE

What?

Female friend 1

Oh God, Annie... You know a guy from Southburn?

Female friend 2

Is he your boyfriend?

male friend 1

That's disgusting.

male friend 2

Pathetic, really.

JAKE

(Getting angry)

Come on, Annie. I have to talk to you.

Annie hesitates before taking a step towards him. Female friend 1 catches her arm.

FEMALE FRIEND 1

You're kidding, right Annie? You're not really planning on going with him, right?

MALE FRIEND 2

Of course not. Who'd hang out with a loser like him? He's nothing but a freak who's trying to fit in.

JAKE

(Stepping forward)

Why don't you say that again to my face, preppy boy?

MALE FRIEND 2

(Turns to glare at him)

You're not worth my time.

JAke

Then I guess you're worth mine!

Jake suddenly lunges forward and hits him squarely on the jaw. He's about to hit again, the boy defenseless, when Annie intervenes.

annie

Jake! Stop it!

He eventually stops, seething.

ANNIE

I'll take him away, guys. I'll see you all tomorrow.

She takes him away from Longstar's campus and into the street.

ext - street - continuous

Annie's terribly angry as they walk.

ANNIE

What the hell were you thinking, showing up at my school like that? Plus you attacked my friend! I've never been so mortified in my entire life.

jake

You started all this!

annie

I certainly did not start this, and you didn't have to punch him!

JAKE

Future boyfriend?

annie

Jealous?

JAKE

Hell no. But you practically screamed the other day that I was your boyfriend, and now you deny it?

ANNIE

That was pretense.

JAKE

The whole studio doesn't seem to think so.

annie

Whatever. Why did you come to bother me at school?

JAKE

(Scoffing)

Nevermind. Just go back to your little prissy world where your entire life's paved golden for you. It would suck for me to put dirt onto it.

He starts to leave. She stops and watches him go for a while, then groans and hurries to catch up with him. She grabs his arm.

ANNIE

Fine, Jake, I'm sorry. There, I apologized. Now can you tell me why you came over, I'm curious?

JAKE

(Glares at her slightly, then relents with a sigh)

Do you read the paper in the morning? Someone as cultured as you must definitely have already heard the news.

ANNIE

No, haven't heard of anything. Why, is your face on the front page?

JAKE

Kristy's is.

ANNIE

What? Why, what happened?

jake

She had to be hospitalized yesterday evening, because of a major breakdown. She apparently freaked out about receiving death threats from someone, and wants out of "The Protector". She just began screaming that Phil did it, yet he kept defending himself.

ANNIE

Damn, Jake. What else?

jake

That's it. They brought her at the hospital, gave her some meds. She calmed down and went back home. I'm guessing she received another threat.

ANNIE

(Sighs)

Aren't you super curious?

jake

Why in the world would I go to Longstar High to find you unless otherwise?

They arrive at a huge house, obviously Annie's mansion.

ANNIE

(Pensive)

Well, I have homework to do. But after that, I say tonight spells date. What do you think?

jake

Isn't it all pretense?

ANNIE

7:30?

JAKE

I'll be there.

He's about to move away, then looks at her hesitantly. She hadn't moved and they stare at each other. He takes a step towards her, lowering his head about to kiss her, but she moves away and rushes to her door. He turns away, disappointed, and leaves.

ext - the protector studio - night

It is nighttime. Enter Jake and Annie, sticking close to the building. The entire scene is in half-whispers.

jake

I can't believe that your dad made us hold hands.

annie

It was hilarious! You went so red in the face.

JAKE

(Avoiding the jab)

So, now that we're here. What do we do?

ANNIE

Well, we go in. Sensible reasoning.

JAKE

And how do we do that, o wise one? Every thing's locked up, no one's in there.

annie

Don't underestimate my intelligence, Jake.

She suddenly shoves her hand into her pocket, takes something out, and TOSSES it to him. He CATCHES it easily and the camera zooms into his hand. KEYS.

jake

Are those the keys to the entire studio?

annie

Yep! Having a dad that's a security guard definitely came to my advantage.

jake

To our advantage. Let's go.

They sneak into a side entrance. The KEY FITS PERFECTLY into the hole and they slip in. ANNIE takes the keys back and puts them in her jacket pocket.

INT - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS

Annie pulls out a flashlight and opens it up.

jake

(Normal voice)

Wow, you really thought of everything did you?

ANNIE

(Whispering)

It's a bit less telltale than if we open the entire set of light through the building. Also, keep your voice down.

JAKE

(Quietly)

Why? I thought we were alone.

annie

Yeah, but sometimes actors or security guard come by just to check up or to retrieve something forgotten.

jake

Then we so look safe sneaking around holding a flashlight.

annie

Backing out already?

jake

Not on your life.

annie

Then let's go.

They vanish around a corner.

INT - KRISTY'S LODGE - CONTINUOUS

They push the door open from outside. Annie slips in first, followed by Jake. They BOTH HALT SUDDENLY, THEIR FACES HORRIFIED.

The room is completely COVERED in deep red smears. Annie freaks out and turns around, but Jake grabs her arm.

jake

Calm down. It's not blood, if that's what you're worried about. Or else it would retch.

Annie's still trembling, refusing to get any closer. Jake takes the flashlight from her hands and SHINES it around the room. The light BOUNCES OFF A DRAWING OF A WOMAN ON THE WALL WITH ITS HEAD DECAPITATED. The letter "T" is also written almost everywhere, with threatening words carved in the walls.

JAKE

Gosh, who would do this?

He steps forward and shines his light downwards, onto a few ruined lipsticks.

JAKE

See, Annie? It's fine. That's probably why she freaked out. Someone used her lipstick to do all this.

ANNIE

Jake...

He turns and sees her. Her face is glinting with tears as she looks at him. The small lighting, combined with creepy music and the decor, makes him look devilish. She takes a step back, frightened.

ANNIE

I'm done. I want to go home, Jake. We shouldn't have come here.

Jake softens and steps towards her. He reaches over for her, but she backs up again, this time directly on the doorstep.

JAKE

Don't be scared Annie. It's just some fanatic kid who--

ANNIE

(Shaking her head wildly)

No, you listen Jake! The weirdo who did all this is still out there! For all we know, he could still be in this studio!

JAKE

We can stay for a little while. I just want to go check out Phil's lodge and then we'll--

Annie

Do it yourself! I'm leaving!

She whirls around and runs out of the room. He rolls his eyes and begins to walk after her, knowing that he had the flashlight.

INT - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS

It's pitch black. Annie keeps running. She hears Jake behind her, but doesn't quite feel reassured. Her breaths are short, scared.

jake

Annie! Come back here!

But Annie keeps running. She sees the bright red "EXIT" sign and turns a corner, but suddenly RUNS INTO SOMEONE. A man, from the stature, who GRABS her from behind to keep her from running. She screams loudly before he SLAMS A HAND ON HER MOUTH.

Camera switches to Jake, who hears her scream. He begins to RUN and also turns the corner, RAISING his flashlight to the person. Frankie is BLINDED by the light and Annie KICKS him in the shins, so he lets go and falls to the ground. Annie RUSHES to Jake's side and he grabs her in his arms, keeping the light shined on Frankie.

FRANKIE

Stop it! Stop! I am but an old man!

jake

Why are you here?

frankie

I come to get inspiration in the night! Please, take my money and leave me alone! Don't harm me!

annie

(Calming down)

Why did you grab me?

FRANKIE

I thought you were sneaking around! Well you were but-- just leave me alone!

Jake lowers the flashlight.

JAKE

We won't harm you Frankie.

FRANKIE

(Looks up and sees...)

Jake? Annie? What in the world are you two doing here?

He stands up, staying a few meters from them.

JAKE

We heard about what had happened to Kristy.

Annie

We were curious, that's all!

FRANKIE

(Obviously relieved)

Well I can't blame the curiosity. I went to see her room myself, it's quite ghastly don't you both think?

Annie nods and shivers.

JAKE

Will the police investigate? It's vandalism after all.

FRANKIE

(Laughs)

No, they won't investigate. They're used to Kristy's fits.

ANNIE

What do you mean?

FRANKIE

Gosh, you didn't really believe all the nasty rumors that the newspapers are spreading? They practically all accused Phil of writing her the threats!

JAKE

He... didn't?

frankie

Of course not! Phil's as gentle as a sheep on a warm Sunday morning! He may be super angry at Kristy, may yell and bitch, but he'd never send her a threat. Now, how about we get out of here? I saw we get down to the set, since it's windowless and we don't want to get caught here. We can open the lights, make ourselves some coffee, and talk about this whole thing?

annie

Um, no, thank you. I think we'll just leave, Frankie. We're not supposed to be here.

frankie

Think I am?

jake

Wait!

They turn to look at him.

jake

What about the cloth that was in his room? Isn't that evidence?

FRANKIE

(Laughs)

You guys didn't hear the huge scandal that happened a few years ago?

Both teen shakes their heads.

FRANKIE

This is the second movie that Kristy and Phil played in together! About four years ago, they shot "Troublesome Adventures" together, even though he was only an extra. Anyways, during rehearsal, he said something quite nasty to her. We all remember that day...

int - troublesome adventures shooting set - time unknown

FLASHBACK. The set is a bit different than what they have right now. Kristy is seated at a 'restaurant' set with a lovely smile on her face.

KRISTY

Oh Kirk! I have this wonderful idea! Frankie! Can you guys listen?

Frankie and Kirk, who had originally been talking, turn to Kristy with matching smiles.

Frankie

Sure, Kristy!

kirk

Yes, honey?

kristy

Well, at the moment, my character Lee-Ann will meet up with her boyfriend... but he is 10 minutes late. I don't like the fact that she just doesn't care!

kirk

What do you suggest, sweetheart?

kristy

I suggest that she throws her glass at him or something. Or at least a bit of yelling!

frankie

(Gently)

But that would be unlikely of Lee-Ann, now, wouldn't it?

KRISTY

Please, Frankie? Kirk, can we please just modify this little one scene?

A sudden noise in the back, someone LAUGHING, is heard. The camera turns to see Phil, who's sporting a longer haircut. He's dressed in a waiter's costume.

PHIL

I don't think it should change. Frankie wrote a really good script, so I don't think we should rewrite the entire scene just because you said so, Kristy.

KRISTY

(Darkening)

What did you say, boy?

PHIL

You heard me, I'm not backing down.

KRISTY

Kirk, either kick that guy out right now or take my idea to shut him up! Period!

PHIL

Stop trying to manipulate him! Your idea sucks, just everyone is too nice to say it.

Every thing's quiet. Everyone is expecting Kristy to blow up, but she only gets up and exits the room. END OF FLASHBACK.

INT - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS

FRANKIE

So you see, their whole relationship of complete hatred and back-stabbing didn't start yesterday. It's been quite a while, they've done nasty things to one another.

ANNIE

I understand.

FRANKIE

So later on that week, Kristy came rushing out of her dressing room, weeping like a little girl. We all rush to see what's going on, and find this bloody dagger surrounded by a white cloth with blue roses on them. Of course, everyone knew that Phil's tables, as a waiter, were the ones with that tablecloth on top. Phil denied it tremendously, of course, and eventually it all came out that Kristy had created this entire story just to murder Phil's reputation.

ANNIE

But... why would she do this? Why would she try so damn hard to ruin his life?

FRANKIE

(Surprised)

Oh, so you two didn't know?

BOTH

(Shakes their heads)

FRANKIE

Kristy's a bit of a narcissist.

JAKE

A narci-what?

ANNIE

A narcissist, idiot. It's someone who loves themselves immensely.

FRANKIE

True, and every person with that disease, for we can call this a disease, absolutely hates to be contradicted or criticized. Of course, we all know Phil loves to push her buttons, so she blew up and tried to get revenge. She's such a vindictive woman...

There's an awkward silence, until Jake suddenly jumps up.

jake

Well, uh, Frankie, we're gonna leave. It's getting pretty late.

FRANKIE

Alright, kids. It was good to have talked to you both, I felt a bit lonely!

ANNIE

Thanks, Frankie...

FRANKIE

No problem, kids! Just don't let me catch you both sneaking around again, or I might have to tell your parents.

jake

You won't, we promise.

frankie

(Winking)

Good. Next time, tell everyone you're looking for me! Maybe I can help this way! Keep me updated, kids! I wish that I had such an adventure when I was your age! Actually, I think I've had enough for tonight! I'm going home too.

both

Bye!

Annie and Jake exit, followed by Frankie.

ext - In front of the fraser mansion - night

JAKE had walked ANNIE back home. He stops with her besides the door. The lights are all out outside, there's only an inside light dimly open, drifting by a window. They both stop on her doorstep.

JAKE

So... yeah, sorry about the evening. It was a bit butchered.

ANNIE

It's okay. I guess it could've been worst. At least we know it's not Phil.

JAKE

Yeah...

Intense moment of awkwardness.

JAKE

I guess this is it then?

ANNIE

What is?

JAKE

Well, you'll go back to your life and I'll go back to mine. This thing is over. We are over.

ANNIE reaches over to touch his arm.

ANNIE

We had fun while it lasted.

JAKE

What? That's it?

ANNIE

What do you want me to say?

JAKE

Erm, something along the line of "We will still be friends after this".

ANNIE

Well we won't, Jake. We're both from different schools, different universes. It's better off that we just stay as two kids who went through something cool together.

JAKE

Yeah... whatever, cool. I guess I'll go then.

ANNIE

(Nodding slowly)

Yeah.

But before he goes, he leans over and kisses her softly. All the while, he wraps his arms around her rapidly, though we can see one hand slipping into her jacket pocket, though this isn't quite obvious unless you stare right at it. The camera stays on her face for a few seconds. She is shocked, then she closes her eyes and turns around, heading inside.

Camera then slowly turns to JAKE.

He is still in the street and looks at the door for a few seconds, then smirks triumphantly. He reaches in his pocket and pulls out the set of keys. He TOSSES them up in the air, CATCHES them, then begins to whistle as he exits.

INT - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS

JAKE is seen entering again, jingling the keys. He CUTS through various hallways and heads towards the production room.

INT - PRODUCTION ROOM - CONTINUOUS

JAKE is seen entering the production room, all this without lighting. He instantly goes to the teleprompter, hits the words "Kristy" in the computer. It's the password. He ROLLS his eyes and makes a face.

JAKE

(To himself)

Figures...

He searches the wastebasket of the computer, finds nothing. Scrolls through the script, nothing. He shuts the screen of the computer and looks around. He is about to head out when he suddenly hears SOMEONE WALKING around close to the door. He PLUNGES behind a few crates and waits.

Enter KIRK and KRISTY. They LIGHT UP HALF OF THE LIGHTS.

kristy

Oh baby, wasn't it an amazing idea to come here tonight.

kirk

Hm, of course sweetheart. You know that you always get the best ideas.

kristy

Now we can do whatever we want without anyone prying.

They start kissing. JAKE looks away and makes a disgusted face. Kirk pulls away first.

kirk

How are the threats coming along?

kristy

Pretty good, hon. Did I tell you how I staged everything to perfection? I even signed them with the letter "T", so that everyone would like, know that Phil plays Taylor, and it's him!

We get a shot of JAKE's face, who looks completely stunned.

kirk

Be careful with all of it, babe. It could be dangerous.

kristy

It's not dangerous! You know, I really had hoped that these two teenagers wouldn't have been such prudes and would've sneaked through my lodge.

kirk

They didn't?

kristy

Nah, or else they already would've spilled to the police. They just sat there like the little children they were. Hello, when I was their age, if I would've been in their situation... come on, make out session time!

kirk

(Looks a bit hurt)

Yeah, stupid teens.

kristy

I had so much fun writing all these letters! What do you think if, the next one, I leave it on the set somewhere? It could be discovered!

kirk

Good idea, babe. Anything you say is a marvelous idea.

kristy

(Giggling)

I know, I know! But how about we wait a little bit? Cause, you know, the cops already made this huge fuss about my lodge.

KIRK

Hm, we spend what? A hundred dollars on plastic gloves and lipstick? And the performance you gave that morning was brilliant, everyone fell for it!

KRISTY

(Maliciously)

Phil will regret having talked back to me someday! I swear! I want him to get arrested and put away for life!

KIRK

Well, how about we forget about all this tonight, hm? We have this little area all for us.

They start kissing again. Camera shoots back to JAKE, who mouths the words "Crap" before shaking his head. He RAISES his head slowly and peers from behind the crates and stay unnoticed.

Taking a chance, JAKE LUNGES from one crate to another, staying hidden. He moves through FOUR crates, almost at the audio room, when his SNEAKER CATCHES THE SIDE OF A CRATE. It TOPPLES OVER.

jake

(Whisper)

Damn...

KIRK and KRISTY stop kissing. KRISTY hides behind KIRK while the man scans the room.

KIRK

Who is here? Show yourself!

KRISTY

(She points to the crate where Jake is hidden)

Babe, the crate there has been moved I think...

KIRK

We'll see about that.

KIRK WALKS RAPIDLY TOWARDS THE CRATE. HE IS A FEW METERS FROM IT, ONLY INCHES FROM BEING ABLE TO SEE JAKE, WHEN THE DOOR OPENS AND PHIL ENTERS.

PHIL

What the hell? Why are you all here?

Camera momentarily shoots JAKE, who is sitting absolutely still with his mouth lightly open and his eyes wide.

KRISTY

(With disgust)

Phil. What an... honor.

KIRK

(Turning from the crate)

Why are you here?

PHIL

(Snickering)

Why are you? This is after hours, I came to work a bit with the teleprompter. From the lipstick on your lips, Kirk, I assume that you were doing the same thing.

KRISTY

Insolent loser! Leave!

PHIL smirks and shrugs. He EXITS. We see a flash of JAKE as he closes his eyes and shakes his head.

KRISTY

(Putting on her coat)

Sorry, hon, but this will be it for tonight.

KIRK

B-But Kristy! We've just started!

KRISTY

(Flashing him an adorable smile)

I know, baby, I know, but I have some stuff to do at home, hmkay? I love you though!

KRISTY blows KIRK a kiss before rushing out of the building. We distantly hear the words "PHIL, wait up!" shouted from her.

KIRK

Damn... damn... DAMN!

He stomps a few meters, before angrily shutting the computer. He then walks directly towards JAKE and KICKS the crates. They SCATTER everywhere, REVEALING JAKE HIDDEN BEHIND.

KIRK

(Surprised and angry)

Well hot damn... You started all this, bastard.

JAKE

I-I was just leaving, you know? Just relaxing here, yeah?

KIRK

How long have you been here?

JAKE

Not long, I swear.

KIRK

Don't you dare move. I'm calling the cops right now.

KIRK moves towards his jacket, lying on the floor close to the teleprompter.

jake

(On the side)

Great. You do that.

KIRK

(Suddenly stops and turns around)

You're not pleading me not to. What's wrong with you?

JAKE

What do you want me to say?

KIRK

Wait a minute... That's not normal...

He takes a few steps towards JAKE.

KIRK

I can see it in your face. You've heard Kristy and I speak, didn't you, little punk?

JAKE

(Stands up)

So what if I did? It was none of my business, man. I won't do anything with what I learnt?

KIRK

Don't think I'm stupid, punk. Now, I have to find a way to get rid of you...

JAKE

(Raising his hands to chest-level)

Woah, chill man! I'm not going to do anything.

KIRK

Then I will!

KIRK turns and walks to his jacket. Sensing danger, JAKE turns and RUNS OUT OF THE ROOM.

kirk

Little punk.

KIRK PULLS OUT A GUN from his jacket pocket, cocks it, and exits the room.

EXT - THE PROTECTOR STUDIO - Continuous

PHIL exits the studio and begins to walk towards his car. Then KRISTY exits and begins to run towards him.

KRISTY

Phil! Wait up!

PHIL

(Barely stops)

What do you want, Kristy?

KRISTY

(Grabs his arm)

Thanks for showing up.

PHIL

Weren't you enjoying it?

KRISTY

You know that Kirk only keeps me so I'll sleep with him! Otherwise, I would be like... jobless!

PHIL

I still think you're pathetic, Kristy. The whole death threat scene a few days ago was so cliché.

KRISTY

Yes! That's all it was, a bad cliché!

PHIL

Right, well now even my own mother doesn't trust me anymore. Everything thinks I'm a stupid asshole that--

KRISTY

But you're not! I'm so sorry, I told you dozens of times! Kirk for--

PHIL

Forced you to do it, I know! I also know that he paid you a couple of hundred too, no?

KRISTY

(Looks away)

My mother's sick. She has cancer, she needs money. I have to pay for her treatments, for her well-being, for the kids, the bills. Having a couple of bucks on the side won't hurt.

PHIL

(Stops fully to contemplate her)

And you want me to believe you?

KRISTY

(Tearing up)

Yeah. If I promise no more bitching, no more sucking up. No more passes for some spare money. No more death threats. Will you believe me then? I really want to make things right, Phil. Especially with you. I can't stand pretending to be in love with Kirk! He's a disgusting man. Please believe me, Phil, please believe me...

PHIL

(Contemplates for a few seconds)

I guess I could. After a drink or two together, right?

KRISTY

(Brightening)

You drive?

They stop besides a 2008 Cadillac.

PHIL

Get in!

int - hallway - Meanwhile

JAKE turns a corner, RUNNING FOR HIS LIFE. HE SUDDENLY COMES TO A DEAD END and stops, looking around frantically. There's only one door and he TRIES THE DOORKNOB, finding it locked. He then SCRAMBLES IN HIS POCKET and clumsily pulls out the keys, jamming one in the doorknob. NOTHING HAPPENS. He tries another one, and a third one. ENTER KIRK.

KIRK

Lost, little punk?

KIRK RAISES HIS GUN. JAKE backs up and raises his hands, letting the keys DROP TO THE FLOOR in the process.

KIRK GOES TO PICK THEM UP, ALL WHILE KEEPING HIS GUN ON JAKE.

KIRK

Where did you get that?

JAKE remains silent.

KIRK

Listen, punk, I don't have all night. Just tell me already or I'm shooting you.

JAKE

I'm not saying.

kirk

Who are you protecting?

JAKE

No one you know.

kirk

Fine, let's make a deal, shall we? I say that you tell me who gave you these damned keys, and I'll set you free, how's that?

JAKE

(Reluctantly)

Fine. I got them from... from... from my dad.

kirk

Who are you?

JAKE

Jacob Jr. McKeen. My dad's a janitor here.

kirk

As of tomorrow, he's fired from this establishment. All thanks to you, punk. Now, I'll call the cops and you will be nice enough not to mention the exchange between Kristy and I, correct?

JAKE

You can't have my dad arrested.

kirk

He gave you the keys to the building. It's illegal, he signed a contract saying that the keys for the job period.

jake

I know. I stole them from him.

KIRK seems to rage for a few seconds, before suddenly marching at the unlocked door. He unlocks it and, pointing the gun directly at JAKE's temple.

KIRK

Go inside, punk. Now. There are some little rules I'll establish now. Let's start with the obvious; You will not scream not leave this room until I tell you so. Second, you...

Sound and audio fades out as KIRK closes the door behind them.

int- annie's bedroom - morning

ANNIE is standing in front of her mirror, fixing up her hair.

ANNIE

I'm so tired...

She slams her fist down and closes her eyes.

annie

Why the hell did Jake have to kiss me? Damn him, it's all his fault I didn't sleep.

She then goes over to a pretty calender and crosses out another day.

ANNIE

Friday... I wonder if he'll show up again after school...

Suddenly smirking, she picks up a hot pink duffel bag and marches over to the out as she shoves them inside her bag. Camera fades out as she d them inside her bag. Camera fades out as she does so.

int - The fraser mansion - continuous

We see the hallway, everything made of expensive wood, marble, and gold. ENTER ANNIE, putting on a necklace as she comes down the spiral staircase. There's no pink duffel bag, only a leather bag.

ANNIE

(Calling out)

I'm leaving dad! Bye, have a good day!

mike

Hold on a second!

She hurriedly pulls on her jacket and puts her shoes on as MIKE enters, also ready for work. He begins to search through the jackets.

mike

(Softly)

Damn... where did I put them...?

Annie

Lost something again dad?

mike

Yeah, have you seen my keys?

annie

(Laughing)

Dad, they're right on the table.

ANNIE reaches over and grabs the car keys, flinging them across the room. MIKE catches them and frowns.

mike

I meant the keys to the studio. I was sure I had put them in my navy jacket pocket...

ANNIE winces openly since he can't see her. She then slowly REACHES IN HER POCKET and searches through it. She suddenly turns worried and shoves her hand in the other pocket. Finding nothing, she hurriedly turns around.

ANNIE

(Weakly)

Well good luck with finding them, dad! I have to get to school now or else I'll be late.

mike

(Laughing in the background)

You know how I always take pride in your perfect attendance record, sweetheart. I'll leave as soon as I find them! Have a good day!

ANNIE

Bye dad...

ANNIE EXITS. Camera fades out.

int - Longstar high math class - early afternoon

ENTER ANNIE surrounded by her group of friends (FEMALE FRIEND 1, FEMALE FRIEND 2, MALE FRIEND 1, MALE FRIEND 2 WHO IS NOW SPORTING A BLACK EYE). They all take their spots close to the front of the class. In the classroom, everyone's sitting as close as they can to the teacher instead of all the way in the back.

FEMALE FRIEND 1

So Annie, you have to tell us what's going on with that bum from Southbum school!

MALE FRIEND 2

Yeah, he was such an unintelligent, poor-excuse of a man! Attempting to attack me like that.

MALE FRIEND 1

Like a savage!

FEMALE FRIEND 2

He's horrid.

ANNIE

(V.O)

Oh, he only walked me home, took me out, then kissed me goodnight.
(END V.O)
Nothing at all. Just some poor boy who decided to stalk me.

MALE FRIEND 2

Just tell us if you want us to remind him of his status. A low-class like him shouldn't hang out with the likes of you, Annie.

ANNIE

True...

FEMALE FRIEND 1

You sure you're feeling fine, Annie?

FEMALE FRIEND 2

Yes, you do look a bit pale.

annie

No, I'm fine. Just had a long night, that's all.

The bell rings. The students face forward as the math teacher steps in.

math teacher

Good afternoon, students. Take our your notebooks.

Not a sound is made as notebooks are quietly opened.

MATH TEACHER

Alright, so today we will start the lesson over from yesterday's. The quadratic equation is mostly used for --

The P.A suddenly goes off. Not a student flinches.

P.A.

Sorry to bother you sir, but could we have Annie Fraser at the counselor's office, please?

MATH TEACHER

Of course, ma'am!
(To Annie)
You heard her, miss Fraser. Bring your things, in case it may be longer than you expected.

annie

Sure.

ANNIE gets up through the stares of her fellow students. She hurriedly moves through the crowd of students and makes her way outside the classroom.

FEMALE FRIEND 1

(Whispered to friends)

Why do you think she's being asked over there?

MALE FRIEND 1

Yes, it's very rare that a student is taken out of class.

MALE FRIEND 2

Surely it has something to do with the boy who attacked me yesterday. He seems bound to pull people down with him through the path of trouble.

FEMALE FRIEND 2

Oh it's probably nothing, friends. This is Annie we're discussing, a girl like every other in this school.

MALE FRIEND 2

Who, sadly, got affiliated with someone from Southburn High!

TEACHER

Students, focus please.

All four

Yes sir.

The students all face forward and the lesson begins once more.

int - counselor's office - a few minutes later

ANNIE is seated on a cheap-looking plastic chair. In front of her is the COUNSELOR and a MEAN-LOOKING POLICE OFFICER.

police

Annie Fraser?

ANNIE

(Weakly)

Yes sir?

POLICE

Do you have any idea as to why you're here?

ANNIE

(Shakes her head)

No sir, I don't. Did something happen?

POLICE

We could say yes to that.

counselor

Sir, can you please make this quick? I know Annie, and I know her father well. She's a straight A student, top of our honor list, perfect attendance record. No one has anything bad to mention about her, I don't see why this is necessary. She's missing class for this, and--

POLICE

(Glaring at her)

With all due respect, ma'am, this is a bit more important than schoolwork.

The counselor shuts up and goes to sit back in her chair, nose up.

police

Now, Annie, your father is a security officer at the studio who's currently filming the movie "The Protector" correct?

annie

Yes.
(Suddenly worried)
Did something happen to him? Is he alright?

POLICE

He's fine, I'm not here to discuss him. It seems like you went there for your "Student work day", right?

annie

Yes.

POLICE

And your father is also friends with Jacob Sr McKeen, correct?

ANNIE

Pretty much, yes.

police

(Starts noting down her answers)

Now, I understand that, on that day, you met Mr. McKeen's son, Jacob Jr?

The COUNSELOR looks up with sudden interest, but then pretended to lose it.

annie

Jake, yes.

police

And you two hit off pretty easily? Love at first sight I might say?

ANNIE

(Now uneasily)

Well not really...

POLICE

I talked with Mr. McKeen, Annie. Don't lie to me- you both started a relationship afterwards?

annie

Yeah, you could say we did.

councelor

Is this a student from here?

police

No, he's from Southburn High School.

The COUNSELOR makes a face of disgust.

annie

(Hurriedly)

Well our relationship is over, it was just a little one-day flirt.

police

A one-day flirt that lasted until yesterday night, I assume.

Now ANNIE begins to squirm uneasily.

annie

What of last night?

POLICE

You two went out on a date. How did it go?

ANNIE

Am I obliged to answer that, sir?

POLICE

I'd rather, yes.

ANNIE

It went well I guess...

POLICE

Where did you two go?

ANNIE

We just took a walk around the streets. We walked from my house to the studio, then came back. Nothing more.

POLICE

I discussed with your father and he mentioned that you arrived back home an hour and a half after you left. Walking would've taken you only about half an hour.

COUNSELOR

(Standing up)

Annie, don't lie to the police!

POLICE

I think you ought to tell us the truth.

ANNIE

(Defensively)

Look, why are you asking me all this? Fine, I admit it, he's my boyfriend. We went out for a walk, but then I don't have to relay every single detail afterwards!

POLICE

It's important Annie.

COUNSELOR

Where were you during that entire hour?

ANNIE

(Rolling her eyes and lifting her eyebrows)

He's my boyfriend. What do you think we did during that hour?

COUNSELOR

(Mouth snapping open)

Disgrace!

POLICE

(Doesn't seem affected at all)

And after your walk, he walked you home, right?

annie

Yes. He also kissed me goodnight like a good boyfriend would, then left waving goodbye. Anything else you want to know about my private life?

POLICE

I think you ought to stop acting all smart-ass with me, Annie.

annie

Sorry. I just don't see why you need to know all this.

police

We received a call at headquarters this morning from Jake's parents. They were frantic, since their son never came back home from your date last night. What do you have to say to that?

annie

(Real shock)

What?

POLICE

Any tips you could give us might help. Did something happen during your date.

ANNIE

Well... at the end I was hinting that I wanted to break up but... he left before I could officially do it.

POLICE

Do you think it had something to do with his disappearance? Could he have run away?

ANNIE

I don't think so...

POLICE

Nothing else?

annie

No, sir.

COUNSELOR

(Coldly)

Is this it, sir? She has to return to class now.

police

One last thing Annie.

annie

Yes?

police

Your father mentioned losing his keys, which was why he was late to work. Do you know anything about this?

ANNIE

... No, sir.

police

Alright. That'll be enough for now, though I might call you later. Thank you Annie. If you get any news from Jake, let us know will you.

annie

Yes sir, I will...

ANNIE gets up and exits the room.

int- longstar hallway - continuous

ANNIE heads out of the counselor's office and walks towards her math class.

annie

Jake... Where the heck are you...

ANNIE (V.O)

I should have told them about the missing keys... But if I would've told them, then I would've been in so much trouble. Maybe even kicked out of Longstar...

ANNIE reaches her class. She places a hand on the doorknob and LOOKS UP at the stained glass in front of her eyes.

ANNIE

He needs to my help... He probably returned to the studio.

She turns from her class and HURRIES DOWN THE HALL. SHE STOPS AT A LOCKER AND OPENS IT, PULLS OUT HER BLACK BAG. FROM THE BAG COMES THE PINK DUFFEL ONE THAT SHE HAD STUFFED EARLIER. SHE SHOVES THE BLACK BAG IN AND WALKS AWAY.

int - Girl's bathroom - continuous

ANNIE BARGES IN THE BATHROOM AND DROPS THE BAG TO THE FLOOR. SHE TAKES OFF HER HEELS AND OUTER CLOTHING, REVEALING HERSELF IN BRA AND UNDERWEAR. THEN SHE SHUFFLES THROUGH THE BAG AND PULLS OUT A BLACK MINISKIRT WITH SMALL SILVER STRIPES THROUGH THEM AND A CHAIN. THIS GOES ON, ALONG WITH A VERY LOW-CUT DARK PURPLE TEE AND A LEATHER COAT.

ANNIE

Oh my God... Damn you, Jake...

ANNIE THEN GRABS A BOTTLE OF GEL AND MESSES UP HER HAIR SO IT'LL BE THE 'BEDHEAD' LOOK AND TAKES OUT BLACK NAILPOLISH- DOES HER NAILS. SHE THEN TAKES OUT DARK EYESHADOW AND SMEARS THEM ON HER EYELIDS, AND DEEP RED LIPSTICK ON HER LIPS. NEXT COMES SPIKY JEWELRY.

ANNIE

Oh my God, I can't believe I'm doing this.

ANNIE looks away from the mirror. Camera shoots her up and down as she slips on hot pink stockings that go all the way up to her knees and black converse shoes. She then grabs the duffel bag, FILLS IT WITH ALL HER THINGS, and EXITS.

ext - southburn high - late afternoon

ANNIE is seated on the steps of Southburn High's steps. She reapplies her lipstick and looks at the clock just inside. There's two minutes left until bell rings.

ANNIE

(Whispering)

Give me courage, please... Give me the strength to do this...

She breathes in and out slowly, then the BELL RINGS. She stands up and walks in Southburn High.

INT - SOUTHBURN HIGH - 3:30 PM

Almost a repeat of Scene 17, with every bum, pimp, slut, gothic, punk, and gangster walking around as if they owned the school. ENTER ANNIE from the double doors, stepping aside to barely avoid a guy being smashed in her.

She walks by a group of slutty-looking girls and looks away, while the girls begin whispering.

southburn girl 1

(The only one whose comment we can understand)

Oh my God, did you see how she's dressed?

ANNIE

(To herself)

See how you are dressing?

ANNIE turns to SOUTHBURN GIRL 1.

annie

(Forcing herself to speak in slang)

Yo, girl.

SOUTHBURN GIRL 1

(Staring at her up and down)

Hey.

annie

You seen Jake McKeen around here?

SOUTHBURN GIRL 1

Nah...

SOUTHBURN GIRL 1 SUDDENLY SMIRKS KNOWINGLY.

SOUTHBURN GIRL 1

(She points in the distance)

Why dontcha go see these guys over there? They're his buddies, they should know!

ANNIE turns and sees a gang of punks. She nods and smiles lightly.

annie

Thanks.

SOUTHBURN GIRL 1

(With obvious fake sincerity)

Oh no problem, sweetie! Anytime!

ANNIE heads towards the aforemention boys, when they turn around. Suddenly, though, the gang of rowdy punks starts to approach her. They circle her and one slaps her ass.

ANNIE

Hey! Leave me alone!

Punk 1

Hey, chick, why dontcha come out with us, huh? We can light up some joints and smoke the night away eh...

punk 2

Oh yeah, us boys can make ya feel real good.

ANNIE

No, thanks, guys, another time alright?

PUNK 3

Ew, a polite chick! What the hell, ain't you a woman? Ya sound like a machine.

PUNK 1

T'sallright dude! They're usually better in bed that way huh!

The punks grin and lick their lips at her. One even rubs her behind again.

ANNIE

(Pulling away)

Leave me alone!

PUNK 2

When the boss' set his eye on someone, woman, they ain't ever leavin' until he gets what he want!

punk 1

That's right, chick. So how will it be? Hot and heavy, right now, or hotter and heavier later?

ANNIE (V.O)

I shouldn't have come here. Oh God, help me please.

ANNIE

You're not getting anything.

PUNK 3

Damn, you sound like you could be comin' straight from a gang of those prisses from Longstar.

PUNK 1

Nah, she's too much of a chick for that... Come outside babe.

ANNIE

No.

PUNK 1 GRABS HER ARM, PUNK 2 PULLS OUT A KNIFE.

PUNK 2

Get over here. Now, bitch.

annie

(As strongly as she can)

Fuck off, you're not touching me.

PUNK 1

Girls are either toys or bitches. At the moment, you're my bitch and you'll become my toy soon.

PUNK 2 raises the knife, so ANNIE follows them out.

ext - side of the school - continuous

Sun doesn't reach the area, so it's rather dark and dirty. ENTER PUNK 1, PUNK 2, PUNK 3, and ANNIE. They shove her to the ground and circle her.

PUNK 1

Come on, babe, strip for us.

The boys smirk.

PUNK 3

And babe, dontcha dare call copper, yeah? We don't wanna be nailed for all this, got us?

annie

I'm not telling anyone if you let me go now.

PUNK 1

(Laughing)

Right, bitch. Let me have my fun first.

He shrugs off his shirt and pins her to the ground. He pulls out her jacket and shoves his lips on her. When he pulls away, ANNIE GAGS AND TRIES TO PUSH HIM AWAY. SHE SCREAMS.

PUNK 2

Shut up, bitch!

PUNK 1 kisses her again, and his hands begins to trail on her thigh. ANNIE begins to openly cry and panic.

ANNIE

Stop it, I beg you, please... Please...

PUNK 1

You come to Southburn, chick, you're gonna live like a Southburn girl! Why you so difficult.

annie

I don't, I don't! I'm from Longstar, please, don't! I was coming over to--

PUNK 1 suddenly slaps her hard. He's straddling her and looking down at her.

PUNK 1

We got a wannabe slut here, boys! A real future Pro Skirt, I'm guessin'!

PUNK 3

I say we rid the earth of her, man!

PUNK 1

Not before my fun, dude, chillax!

ANNIE

I was here to see my boyfriend, leave me alone, please!

PUNK 2

Who's he?

ANNIE

Jake. Jacob McKeen. I wanted to see him, just let me go!

PUNK 1

Heard that, fellas? She's the girlfriend of that fucker, McKeen! He's a real loser, babe, I'm much better than him!

He once again begins to work on her, now kissing her neck. ANNIE keeps crying and whimpering, trembling under him.

menacing voice

Hey! Fuck off, all of you!

PUNK 1 scrambles from ANNIE. She pulls away from him, still crying.

ENTER DUKE, the menacing voice.

duke

Leave now, before I crush y'all under my fist.

PUNK 1

You have nothin' to do here, man! Was only havin' fun with my bitch here!

DUKE

(Throws an interested look at Annie, then looks back at PUNK 1)

How much she costs?

PUNK 1

I ain't her pimp, dude?

DUKE

She been done before?

PUNK 1

Nah man, she's mine.

DUKE

Two hundred big ones. Another hundred if, after, she hasn't been done before as you say.

PUNK 1

(Hesitates, then snaps)

Done deal, man.

DUKE PRODUCES A POUCH OF MONEY, counts out the appropriate count, and hands it to PUNK 1. Exit PUNK 1, 2, and 3.

DUKE TURNS TO ANNIE, WHO IS BACKING UP INTO THE WALL AT HIS INTIMIDATING STATURE.

duke

Who you?

annie

(Quietly, through sobs)

Annie...

duke

An' why you here? Watcha doing outta Longstar?

annie

I-I wanted to see Jake.

DUKE

(Suddenly looking interested as he steps forward)

Jake who?

Since he's directly in front of her, she rolls up in a ball and keeps crying in fear.

DUKE

Calm down, babe, Duke ain't the kind of guy who takes women who don't want him. Answer my question.

annie

Jake McKeen.

DUKE

Whatcha got to do with my homie Jake?

ANNIE

You know him?

duke

Yeah, dawg, we roll together. Those guys that just left, we used to drink out of the same bottle, but no more. They too gangsta for me, man.

ANNIE

So... you're not going to hurt me?

duke

(Glaring slightly)

Not all Southburn kids are evil, man. Now get out.

DUKE GETS UP AND BEGINS TO LEAVE. ANNIE SCRAMBLES TO HER FEET AND GRABS HER JACKET.

annie

Wait! Please!

DUKE

(Turns around)

Dawg, you just cost me three hundred big ones, what else do you want?

annie

I came here for help. There's something wrong.

DUKE

Woman, if ya havin' trouble with my man Jake, then drop 'im. Simple as that.

annie

He wasn't at school today, right?

duke

Probably got smashed at home and's goin' through a hangover.

annie

He's not at home. He's been gone since last night. He vanished after our date.

DUKE fully looks at her. His face suddenly turns worried.

DUKE

And yo need my help for?

annie

Can you meet me here tonight?

DUKE

(Sighs)

Didn't ya get ya lesson, chick? Southburn ain't a place for ya. Night either, since there's supposed to be a party out here tonight. Gonna get messy, I know it.

ANNIE

(Wincing)

Pick me up at my place?

DUKE

(Flashing a set of white teeth)

You can count of it, babe.

DUKE hands out his hand to her and she takes it, stands up. Camera fades out.

ext - protector studio - night

ENTER ANNIE AND DUKE. She's wearing pretty date clothes while he's all gangster-wearing.

ANNIE

So this is everything.

DUKE

Damn, woman. You got guts to lie to the cops like that.

annie

Don't remind me, please.

DUKE

Gotcha, woman. But to be serious, as if my man Jake's in trouble, dude.

annie

We only have one problem.

duke

Babe, nothing's a problem. You've got Daddy Duke on your side.

annie

Can Daddy Duke unlock this?

They arrive at a side door, the same one JAKE and ANNIE had entered the day before. There's a lock (cadenas) on it, since the door seemed to have been broken.

duke

Dude. What happened to security?

annie

There's still a lock?

DUKE reaches over, grabs the lock. He then pulls from his bag a straight pin. Two seconds later, it's unlocked.

duke

There was a lock, woman.

ANNIE

Holy crap, you're awesome! How did you learn this?

DUKE

... You have no idea, chick, how much times I locked myself in my house. This became a habit at nighttime. Always useful on dates too, when my chick ain't allowed to go out. Sneakin' back in is my last name.

ANNIE

Is "Finding Jake" your middle name, by any chance?

duke

(Smirking)

Nah, but "Saving Jake's Ass" is.

annie

Great, let's go!

INT - Different places in the studio - CONTINUOUS

Camera flashes as ANNIE and DUKE look everywhere for JAKE. No luck. We see them enter and search KRISTY'S lodge, the shooting stage, the audio room, the janitor's closet. Then they enter PHIL's lodge. ANNIE sinks on the couch, tired.

annie

We're never going to find him, Duke. This was stupid.

DUKE

Well if he took your keys, woman, then he did somethin' with 'em.

ANNIE

I just want this to be over. We have to find him tonight or I'm going to the cops with what I know.

DUKE

Why do you want to find him so much, woman?

ANNIE

It's my fault. Without my keys, he wouldn't have been in here.

duke

Oh gosh...

annie

What?

duke

The whole "I'm here to see my boyfriend" ... it was true?

annie

You were listening?

DUKE

I thought you were bluffin' these punks.

ANNIE

No. It was all pretense.

duke

You're about to cry, chick. You can't fool Daddy Duke.

ANNIE gets up and they begin to search the room. But ANNIE opens the drawer with the false bottom and finds the cover. Her eyes gloss over with tears as she holds it.

DUKE

(Kneeling behind her)

That the cover he found?

ANNIE nods wordlessly, unable to speak.

DUKE

(Putting a hand on her shoulder)

We'll find him, Annie.

ANNIE

(Chokingly)

I can't love him, Duke. I can't. I'm from Longstar, he's from Southburn.

DUKE

So, woman?

ANNIE

Never mind... You can't understand...

duke

I can't understand ya, woman? I'm guessin' it'll ruin ya reputation dating a Burnout?

ANNIE guiltily looks away, fingering the cover.

DUKE

(Scoffing)

Pathetic Longstar students. Too scared bout their own image to do what they really want.

DUKE exits the room.

ANNIE

I'd lose all respect.

She exits the room too.

INT - HALLWAY- CONTINUOUS

DUKE is walking down the hall when ANNIE catches up.

ANNIE

Duke, please don't leave! I'm sorry, I didn't mean to offend you.

duke

I ain't leavin', but I'm definitely not stayin' for a chick- nah, a lead-on like you.

annie

I didn't lead him on, I was only--

DUKE

D'ya know how many girls Jake asked out?

annie

No. Dozens, I'm assuming?

duke

He's a popular homie. Many chicks hit on him. He had maybe three girlfriends. They'd be invitin' him too!

annie

You have a gift to make people feel bad.

duke

Ya deserve it. My man didn't deserve the likes of you. A priss who flirts then refuses to go through with the flirtin'. I should've left ya with the punks.

ANNIE

Okay, so I deserved it. Put Duke, you don't understand the pressure I'm under! I have to be perfect all the time, hence my boyfriend has to be perfect as well.

DUKE

And Jake ain't?

THEY stop at a door, locked. DUKE BEGINS TO PLAY WITH THE LOCK. It's the same hallways that JAKE had been caught in.

annie

He's not from Longstar. He came for 10 minutes yesterday and started a fistfight. I can't date him.

DUKE

Who started it?

ANNIE

He jumped on my friend.

duke

That ain't like 'im. My homies don't attack for no reason.

ANNIE

(Hesitantly)

Well my friend provoked him, but...

duke

Then your friend's the jackass, not my man. If they pushed his buttons an' he cracked, then it's their fault.

DUKE puts the pin away and studies the lock, then begins trying to open it.

DUKE

So glad my man came to Southburn with me instead of with the likes of you.

ANNIE

What do you mean?

duke

The entrance exam for Longstar. Ya need 90 to enter. What'dya got?

annie

99 percent. In my grade, I was the second best. One person got a hundred, though no one knows who.

DUke

Jake, he was real smart. He's that dude who got a perfect score.

ANNIE

(Shocked)

What?

DUKE unlocks the door and smirks confidently as he opens the door.

DUKE

(Triumphantly)

Stunned, woman? Guess that my man Jake ain't that dumb after all.

ANNIE

Why the hell did he go to Southburn instead, especially since he got the best score.

duke

He took high school through the hard route, unlike all of you at Longstar. He chose to trudge through the real world down here instead of hikin' up with y'all on the pedestal. He came to Southburn with the rep of being a dropout nerd. Everyone dissed him until I stepped in and saved his ass. Even when I forced him in a relationship with that Caryn girl, a real loser to help break him, he stayed strong. Not much drinkin', no drugs, no playin' round with women... He kept his straight route, yet dirtied it with Southburn.

ANNIE

(Shaking her head)

I can't believe it...

duke

And you dumped him. Stupid woman, you deserved this.

He enters the room. ANNIE follows.

int - prop room - continuous

The prop room is generally a room with every prop needed. Every little thing is there, from costumes to fake robots.

duke

Dude, this place is gold!

ANNIE

Don't touch anything, please.

duke

We're gonna have to dig if we wanna find 'im.

They shuffle around. DUKE finds a trap door and opens it.

duke

Holy shit.

He climbs down. Annie follows him.

int - trap hole - continuous

They find a small room, with a vent for aeration, but it's still freezing since it's underground. Tied up to the far wall is JAKE. His shirt is off, his jeans rolled up, shoes gone, head dipped. He looks like a prisoner. He's dirty, mussed, and unconscious. ENTER ANNIE, who remains at the door, and DUKE.

ANNIE

(Suddenly looking as though she'll faint)

Jake!

DUke

Chill woman. Don't think he's gone yet.

DUKE approaches JAKE and checks his pulse. He nods and reaches in his pocket for a flask of something. He opens it and shoves it right under JAKE's nose. Not a second later, JAKE blinks his eyes open and makes a face.

DUKE

Straight, pure whiskey, always works.

jake

(Croakingly)

Duke?

duke

Chill, man. We're gettin' you outta here.

DUKE begins to examine the metal shackles that holds him binded to the wall.

duke

This needs a special key. Man, who locked ya here?

jake

Kirk. The director of this whole shit hole. Don't remember the key, man...

DUKE

I'll go find it.

DUKE stands up.

jake

Fuck that, man. Way too dangerous. Just call the cops.

duke

Broke in here and shattered about fifteen locks. I'll be in trouble fo sho, dude. Be back in five.

DUKE exits, but before he glares at ANNIE and nods towards JAKE.

ANNIE approaches JAKE, who now has his eyes closed. She kneels in front of him and noticed that he'd shivering out of cold. Both of their breaths are coming out as smoke.

ANNIE

(Whispered)

Jake?

jake

(Cracking his eyes open)

Annie... you came too?

ANNIE

Who do you think went to pick up Duke, idiot.

JAKE

(Smirks lightly)

You didn't change a bit.

ANNIE loses her smile as tears fall down her face. She reaches over and runs a hand on his freezing cheeks.

annie

I was so scared, Jake...

JAKE

So was I... But I knew you'd realize I had taken the keys and you'd do something. You're just too smart, I knew that you'd get why I did it. I'm sorry for doing it.

ANNIE

Don't apologize, Jake. Just be quiet.

jake

Kiss me first.

ANNIE

Oh God, Jake, don't start, please. I've already gone through so much grief with this entire thing, don't add to it.

jake

I love you, Annie. I don't care if you come from Longstar and I from Southburn, I don't care if everyone in the world hates me for this. I love you.

ANNIE

(Nods softly)

I love you too... No matter what happens after this.

ANNIE leans over and drops her cheek on his freezing chest. She shivers as she wraps her arms around him, hoping to warm him up. JAKE sighs and closes his eyes once more, as they lie there waiting for DUKE to come back.

ENTER DUKE, holding an entire wall piece of keys. ANNIE pulls away from JAKE as DUKE smirks knowingly and begins to start working on the handcuffs. After quite a few, they unlock him.

duke

There ya go, dude. Ready to go home?

jake

What the hell am I going to tell my parents?

DUKE

You're the smart ass, you figure it out, homie.

jake

(Turning to Annie)

You should go home. Your dad's probably worried about you, especially since I left.

DUKE

(Laughing)

He might think ya both are elopin'!

annie

But... Will you be okay? To get back home and everything?

JAKE

Yeah. Look, we can say that after I left you at home, I went to get smashed with some buds I won't name, and I was passed out in an alley somewhere for the last day. How does that sound?

duke

Sounds good, homie. I can be the witness if ya want.

jake

Thanks man, but it was just a joke. I saw some things and I better go talk to the cops. The loser who locked me in here has to be arr--

DUKE

I can smash his face in for ya, man.

JAKE

Thanks, but it won't be necessary. I think a few years in jail would do him some good.

DUKE helps JAKE stand up, since the latter's wobbly on his feet. They all exit.

ext - longstar high - a few days later

ANNIE, clad in her usual school attire, exits the school. FEMALE FRIEND 1 catches u p with her and grabs her arm to stop her.

FEMALE FRIEND 1

Annie! Where have you been all weekend?

ANNIE

Sorry, some events stopped me from leaving home.

FEMALE FRIEND 1

I heard that the boy who knew you from Southburn created quite a ruckus. What happened exactly.

annie

I've told about fifty people, go ask them.

FEMALE FRIEND 1

I want to hear it from you, Annie.

annie

The studio where his dad works got closed down because of a scam. The director was forcing the star, Kristy, to sleep with him and to try to frame Phil. Jake, the guy from Southburn, snuck in during the night and heard them, but got caught. The director tied him up in an ancient storage room and left him there. He was arrested.

FEMALE FRIEND 1

And the punk from Southburn?

annie

He received some community service time to do, but nothing major. Yet he did sneak in a building when he wasn't supposed.

female friend 1

With your dad's keys, right?

annie

Yes, but dad decided not to press any charges and brushed it off as though it was nothing.

female friend 1

The little punk sure was lucky.

annie

Yeah. Can I go home now? I have so much homework to do.

female friend 1

(Laughing)

Of course, Annie! I wasn't holding you back, was I? Oh, I'm so sorry! Take care of yourself, alright dear? And stay away from that fellow, he's dangerous!

ANNIE

Jake? Oh, he was speaking the truth the other day. He is my boyfriend, believe it or not.

FEMALE FRIEND 1

(Loses her smile)

Are you serious?

annie

Yes. I'll make you meet him someday. He's an amazing guy. Or I'll present Duke to you. He's single and searching for a serious girlfriend.

FEMALE FRIEND 1

(Looking grossed out)

Another Southburn burnout? No way, Annie. I have got more class than to hang out with these kind of people!

FEMALE FRIEND 1 exits without another word, looking angry. ANNIE shakes her head with a knowing grin on her face and heads off.

EXT - STREET - CONTINUOUS

ANNIE turns a corner and suddenly her smile widens. In the distance is a gang of boys, all obviously from Southburn. Many are on their skateboards, doing tricks, while the others are shouting comments. One couple is kissing, the girls sitting on the guy's knees. ANNIE approaches them with her head held high, her eyes staring JAKE as he tried a certain skateboard trick.

DUKE, who is with the gang who isn't skating, sees her first and gives a shout.

DUKE

Yo dawg, what a surprise! If it ain't McKeen's little girlfriend fresh from her school day!

Many people turn to stare. Some lose their smiles at the sight of her immaculate outfit, but JAKE only skates towards her. He jumps off his skateboard and lets it roll off, stopping in front of ANNIE. He reaches down and kisses her, as she wraps her arms around his neck and hugs him tightly.

group

(Catcalls and whistles)

Awww!

JAKE

(Pressing his forehead to hers)

Want me to walk you home?

annie

Only if you want.

JAKE pulls away and goes to retrieve his skateboard, then grabs hold of her hand. They walk away together.

DUKE

Stay nice, fellas! No hankie-pankie!

Camera fades as skaters begin skating again.

EXT - IN FRONT OF THE FRASER MANSION - late afternoon

JAKE stops in front of her doorstep and holds her hands in his.

jake

I have a little surprise for you.

ANNIE

What is it?

jake

Are you sure you really want to know? I can be quite crazy with my surprises.

annie

Oh, don't start. Come on, tell me!

Enter FRANKIE, from exiting the FRASER mansion by the front door in a hurry.

FRANKIE

Oh, that's adorable! Hm, I should've brought my camera with me, just to capture the moment.

annie

Frankie!

FRANKIE

Hi Annie! Hi Jake! I had news for you two, so I decided to come over!

JAKE

Spill it, Frankie!

FRANKIE

Well now that Kirk's lost the studio, I decided to take over since I'm the head writer. I'll take a course on how to produce and direct movies at the local university.

annie

That's wonderful, Fankie! I wish you the best of luck!

FRANKIE

Well thank you, but I'm not the only one you ought to wish good luck to!

jake

Who else?

FRANKIE

Look behind you!

ANNIE and JAKE turn around. On the porch is standing MIKE, PHIL, and KRISTY. FRANKIE walks towards them.

annie

(To Jake)

You're not hurrying to get the chance to talk to the wonderful Kristy?

jake

When I have you by my side? Nah, she's nothing compared to you.

PHIL and KRISTY approach, while FRANKIE discusses something with MIKE.

ANNIE

Hi Kristy! Hi Phil!

PHIL

Hey Annie!

KRISTY only giggles and clings to Phil's arm.

JAKE

So what's this big surprise that Frankie has hinted about?

KRISTY

Oh! Like, Phil and I are engaged! See!

KRISTY SHOVES HER HAND FORWARD. On her ring finger is a HUGE DIAMOND RING. ANNIE looks happy while JAKE just looks confused.

jake

But I thought that... you, Kirk...

PHIL

All pretense. She's mine, she always will be. I love her.

annie

That's awesome, guys! I give you all of my congratulations!

KRISTY

Well, we better be off! Our wedding's in two weeks, so we have work to do! Come on, now, Phil!

PHIL

Yes, baby! Bye guys!

The two walk across the street, where a BMW is parked and waiting. They slip in the car and it whisks away.

FRANKIE and MIKE have gone back inside, leaving ANNIE and JAKE alone.

jake

Well that was really random.

ANNIE

It was adorable! I wish them the best of luck!

jake

Annie, they're movie stars. They'll probably last less than a month.

ANNIE

I don't think so. They're already bickering like an old married couple anyways, so it's bound to last for a while.

JAKE

We'll have to see, then. But I can promise you one thing. We will last way longer than they will, no matter what.

ANNIE

Thanks, Jake. You're a sweetheart.

THEY look out on the distance, before Annie turns around.

annie

What was your surprise, Jake? You were going to tell me when Frankie showed up.

jake

(Sighs and looks in the distance)

I've made a decision for you. You probably might take a lot of rap for being my girl back at Longstar, hm?

ANNIE

Probably, but I don't really care. It'll be all worth it.

jake

Did it start already?

annie

Yeah, got the cold shoulder from one of my friends.

JAKE

The hell with her. I have the perfect way to stop it from happening again.

annie

And how is that, Mr. I-beat-you-at-the-entrance-exam?

jake

You'll never let me forget, will you?

annie

Never.

JAKE

Well, starting from next week, I'll be able to defend you when people start picking on you.

annie

What do you mean?

jake

Ever since I've finished this entrance exam, I've gotten a phone call pretty much every month from the school's counselor. She absolutely wants me to join Longstar, since my record would boost the school's.

ANNIE

(Suddenly smiling knowingly)

And...?

JAKE

She called yesterday to let me know that she wouldn't ask me to join Longstar anymore. Just because I have a tarnished reputation now.

annie

(Loses the smile)

Oh... Then what's the surprise.

jake

Well now that they don't want me there anymore, I decided that it was where I wanted to go. So I went to see the principal this morning. I showed her my latest tests and assignments and asked if I could be a new addition to the Longstar student body.

ANNIE

Did she agree?

jake

Do you think your friends will accept me in the school?

ANNIE

(Hesitantly)

I'm not sure I want you to come to Longstar... You seemed to fit in well with Southburn. I don't want you to become like all the preppy boys in my school.

JAKE

Never. Your school needs its black sheep anyways.

ANNIE relents and squeals in happiness as she jumps in JAKE's arms.

annie

I can't wait, Jake!

JAKE

Me neither. But you have to prepare your friends, since Duke absolutely wants to date one of them.

annie

I'll do my best.

The two laugh and happily give each other a kiss, as the camera fades out a final time and credits start.

The end