Review By: Gothic Spook "But she’s Monica. She looks funny in a dress." - John Doggett *Rolls eyes* He just can't admit how nice she
looks!
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Title: "The Beginning and The End"
Written by: Kristi
Date: June 12, 2005; June 25-26, 2005; July 12, 2005
Air Date: October 24, 2005
Rating: PG
Series: FRVS - Episode #156
Spoilers: Past episodes of FRVS may be spoiled.
Feedback: We love it. There is a form at the bottom of this story that you can use to send us feedback. Thank you.
Archiving: "Fox & Rat" Virtual Series only!
Disclaimer: We do not own anyone. They belong to Chris Carter, Ten-Thirteen Productions, and 20th Century FOX Broadcasting.
Author's Note: The personalities of the characters within the world of "Fox & Rat" are not those you know from "The X-Files" television series. We have warped them and given them a common past, immature behavior and a sense of humor. Any horrid behavior should not be mimicked in your every day life.
Summary: Scully, Doggett and Knowle help Monica make decisions about her wedding dress and a wedding cake.
FADE IN:
INT. KNOWLE ROHRER’S HUMMER – DAY
SEPTEMBER 3, 2005
SATURDAY
9:00 A.M.The Hummer is not moving, and is surrounded by cars honking their horns. The windows are rolled down and it is a beautiful, sunny day. “Don’t Panic” by Coldplay is playing softly from the car stereo. Knowle Rohrer sits patiently in the drivers seat, with Monica Reyes next to him in the passenger seat. John Doggett and Dana Scully sit in the back seat. Dana is behind Monica, who is digging through Knowle’s glove box in the front.
DOGGETT
(impatient)
Ever notice how there’s always
a traffic jam when you’re hungry?Knowle smiles with amusement. John is becoming very impatient.
SCULLY
Don’t think about how hungry
you are and you’ll be fine.
MONICA
(just found something)
Ah-ha!Monica holds up a deck of cards she found in Knowle’s glove box. The playing cards have a United States Marine Corps logo on them. Knowle looks over at Monica.
KNOWLE
What are you doing with those?
MONICA
We’ll be in this jam for a while,
so I thought we could all
be entertained.
DOGGETT
Knowle, why do you have a
deck of cards in your Hummer?
KNOWLE
Because you never know.
DOGGETT
You never know what?
SCULLY
You never know when we’ll need
to be entertained. (beat) Is
that why you have blankets too?
KNOWLE
I like to travel a lot, and one
can never be too careful on empty
roads at night. Or if I’m traveling
in the winder and run into a freak
snow storm and can’t drive anymore,
I can still stay warm.
MONICA
It’s good to be that prepared.Monica turns to face Knowle, and holds out the deck of cards.
MONICA
Pick a card and look at it.
Then I want you to put it
back in the deck and shuffle
the cards around. Then give
it back to me.Knowle picks a card, looks at it, then shuffles it back into the deck. He hands the deck of cards back over to Monica.
DOGGETT
(to Knowle)
What’s with the goatee?Monica pulls out a card from the deck: the King of Hearts.
MONICA
(to Knowle)
Is this your card?
KNOWLE
(surprised)
Yeah, how did you do that?
MONICA
I’m special.She smiles and turns to face Scully. Knowle looks back at Doggett through the rear-view-mirror.
KNOWLE
(re: Doggett’s question)
Thought the goatee would be a
good look on me. What do you think?
DOGGETT
Didn’t know the D.O.D. allowed those.
MONICA
(to Scully)
Pick a card and do what
Knowle just did.Scully picks a card, looks at it and shuffles it into the deck. She hands it back to Monica.
A car honks its horn impatiently behind them. Knowle looks back at the driver and rolls his eyes.
KNOWLE
(re: driver)
Some people.
MONICA
Is this your card?Monica holds up an Ace of Spades for Scully.
SCULLY
Yep.Scully smiles.
KNOWLE
You know, I don’t get people.Monica makes Doggett pick a card and do the same as Knowle and Scully.
KNOWLE (CON’T)
I mean, we’re in a traffic jam, there’s
not much we can do. Yet this asshole
continues to blare his horn. I mean,
there could be a damn car accident
for cryin’ out loud.The horn blares again.
KNOWLE
(re: driver)
What an asshole.
MONICA
(to Doggett)
Is this your card?She holds up a 4 of Diamonds. Doggett gives her a look.
DOGGETT
(lying)
No.
SCULLY
John...Monica smiles.
MONICA
(amused)
John just can’t believe
in strange phenomenon.The car behind them honks the horn again for about five seconds.
KNOWLE
(annoyed)
For cryin’ out loud, no
one can move asshole!Monica turns to face forward in her seat.
MONICA
(“scolding”)
Language, Mr. Rohrer.
KNOWLE
I’m sorry. (beat) But really.
MONICA
He’ll feel worse when he finds
out his wife died in the accident
while she was on her way to meet
up with her secret lover.Everyone looks at Monica.
SCULLY
Are you serious?
MONICA
Yes.The horn blares again.
KNOWLE
I’m tempted to go tell him that.Knowle glares back at the impatient driver.
MONICA
(warning him)
That would be a very bad idea, Knowle.
KNOWLE
Why?
MONICA
Because he’d be mad at you, suspect
you were her lover and pull out the
hand gun he carries in his glove
box and kill you.The car falls silent.
SCULLY
(after a beat)
You should sell live insurance...
KNOWLE
(to Monica)
How do you know that?
MONICA
I have a Gift.She looks over and smiles at him.
MONICA
By the way, the goatee
makes you look sexier.She smiles then looks away as she shuffles the cards. Knowle smiles.
SCULLY
I think a man with a
goatee is sexy too.Knowle looks back at her.
KNOWLE
(mean)
I didn’t ask for your opinion.He glares at Scully.
DOGGETT
(stern)
Knowle.
MONICA
(calm and sweet)
Knowle, darling, I need to
speak with you outside please.Monica gives him a stern look, then gets out of the Hummer. Knowle glares at Scully, then gets out, slamming the door.
EXT. KNOWLE’S HUMMER – CON’T
Monica comes around the front of the Hummer and Stands in front of Knowle. Doggett and Scully, unknown to Monica and Knowle, watch from inside the Hummer.
MONICA
(not happy)
Knowle Justin Rohrer, I asked you
to be nice and not get any
attitude with her.
KNOWLE
(in defense)
I slipped, okay? I find it hard
to be nice and kind to someone
who hurt you like she did.Monica looks down and sighs.
MONICA
Knowle... (she looks up at him) I’ve
already told you that what happened
to me is not her fault. I’m not the
only victim – survivor – of what happened-
KNOWLE
-But I saw-
MONICA
-I know you saw her order guards
to take me back to my cell, but
you said it yourself: it wasn’t
safe the way I was going about
getting out of there. Even you
know they would have killed me.
(beat) You would’ve done the same, Knowle.Knowle looks away from her, remembering back to when she tried to escape from the Facility and literally ran right into him.
MONICA
(after a beat)
I wanted more than anything for you
to get me out of that place when I
saw you. I know you wanted the same,
but you were right. You knew you couldn’t
get me out of there, not like that.
KNOWLE
I should’ve-He’s cut off by a lump in his throat. Tears sting his eyes as he remembers how she looked when he saw her on Christmas Eve when he aided them in escaping.
KNOWLE (CON’T)
I should’ve done something.
I should’ve tried harder.He quickly wipes a tear away from his eye.
MONICA
(soft)
You did the right thing, Knowle.
(beat) They would’ve killed me
and you. (beat) I don’t want
you to start feeling guilty about
that. You did save me Knowle.
You gave me hope because I knew
that you knew I was there. (beat)
Semper fi, remember?Knowle looks into her eyes and takes a deep breath, just as the impatient driver blares his horn again.
IMPATIENT DRIVER
(to Monica and Knowle)
Hey! Stop the love scene! You’re
holding up traffic, assholes!Knowle and Monica look back at him, then ahead of them. Traffic hasn’t moved an inch.
KNOWLE
(to driver)
No one’s goin’ anywhere!
Stop it with the damn horn!
IMPATIENT DRIVER
Fuck you!The driver gives Knowle the finger. Knowle rolls his eyes.
MONICA
(quiet)
God, he is an asshole.Knowle looks down and smiles at her.
KNOWLE
(mocking her earlier words)
Language, Ms. Reyes.He winks at her, giving her words back at her.
MONICA
It’s Velázquez.Knowle gives her a confused look.
MONICA
(re: his look)
My real name. Monica Isabella de Velázquez.She smiles at him.
KNOWLE
Wow, that’s got a beautiful ring
to it. (beat) You’ve changed your name?
MONICA
I found out who my biological parents
were so I’ve added that onto my name.
(beat) So it’s still Reyes, but, you know.Knowle nods his head.
KNOWLE
So by the end of November it will
be Monica Isabella
de Velázquez-Reyes-Follmer?
MONICA
Yes.
KNOWLE
That’s long.Monica smiles.
MONICA
(after a beat)
Promise me you’ll be nice to
her. She’s my Maid of Honor,
and you are one of my best
friends – no, you are my best
friend. Even more than John
because you’ve always put up
with me without an argument. So,
since Dana is my best – and probably
only – girlfriend, I would like
- more than anything else in the
world right now – for you to get
along and be nice to her. (beat) Please?Monica gives him a sweet smile.
KNOWLE
All right. I will. I not only promise,
but I give you my word that I will be
kind to her. I swear on my mother’s grave-
MONICA
-She’s not dead.
KNOWLE
Okay. I swear on her future grave
that if I break this promise, you can
curse me with... with being impotent.Monica smiles deviously.
MONICA
Careful, you know I know how
to curse. (beat) We better get
back in the Hummer. They’re
starting to get traffic flowing
about five miles ahead.
KNOWLE
So you’re really psychic?He opens the driver side door and helps Monica into his Hummer. She crawls over the seat and sits back in the passenger seat.
MONICA
Yes.Knowle gets in and shuts the door.
KNOWLE
What am I thinking?He looks at her intensely, as if he’s trying to transmit his thoughts to her. Doggett and Scully watch with amusement. Monica smiles.
MONICA
(highly amused)
Really? Silk?Knowle smiles and looks away from her.
MONICA
I didn’t know The Roar wore
black silk boxers.She looks slyly at him. Scully smiles with high amusement.
MONICA
(after a small beat)
With the USMC logo around
the waist band with the
words “Semper Fi”...Monica looks at him strangely. Knowle just smiles.
MONICA
And here I thought you’d
be going commando.Knowle’s smile becomes bigger. He clears his throat.
KNOWLE
Dana, I’m sorry I snapped at you.
DOGGETT
(stern)
You better be.Scully nudges him.
SCULLY
Apology accepted.The traffic starts to move forward. The impatient driver honks his horn at them.
KNOWLE
As long as he’s behind me,
I’m driving slow.
DOGGETT
Don’t drive too slow. I’m starving.
KNOWLE
Didn’t you eat before coming?
DOGGETT
No. We’re testing wedding cakes
today. I thought it best to save room.Monica smiles.
MONICA
Dana, tell him.
SCULLY
Johnny, I lied to you. (beat) We
won’t be eating only cake today.
We’ll also be trying on wedding
dresses so Mon can choose one.
(beat) We’re doing that first.
DOGGETT
(disappointed)
You’re kidding.
KNOWLE
Good thing I had breakfast.Knowle smiles.
DOGGETT
But I’m starving.
MONICA
We’ll be eating lunch later,
after I try on dresses. Then
we’ll go eat cake.
DOGGETT
(grumpy)
Perfect.Doggett’s stomach rumbles with hunger. Knowle leans over and opens the glove box and pulls out a granola bar. He tosses it back to Doggett.
KNOWLE
There ya go, John.
DOGGETT
You even stock up with food?Doggett opens the granola bar and eats.
KNOWLE
You never know when you’ll need it.
SCULLY
You’re so prepared. (beat)
Do you have kids?Knowle laughs.
KNOWLE
No, I do not have kids.
MONICA
Knowle here has a fear
of the L-M-C-Cs.
SCULLY
The L-M-C-Cs? What’s that?
MONICA
Love, marriage, commitment,
and children. Although it
should actually go in order,
making them the L-C-M-Cs. (beat)
Love, commitment, marriage, children.Scully nods her head.
SCULLY
Maybe he just needs to
find the right woman.
DOGGETT
He’s with her. Her name is
Shannon McMahon. (beat) How
are you guys doin’ anyway?Doggett looks to Knowle.
KNOWLE
(nervous/quick)
Uh, we’re good.
DOGGETT
You sound nervous. What,
you knock her up?
KNOWLE
Hell no, John. (beat) I’m not
nervous either, what makes
you think that?
DOGGETT
Well, I brought her up and
you seemed to want to tune
out the conversation.Knowle unknowingly scratches the back of his neck. Scully takes notice. She’s seen John do the same thing when he’s nervous or on the spot about something.
SCULLY
(suspicious)
Or is there another woman?The car falls silent, except for Coldplay playing softly from the stereo.
KNOWLE
(nervous)
No. (quick) So where is this
place we’re going to?Everyone looks at him suspiciously.
MONICA
Even though I’m psychic and can
read minds... and I know you’re
hiding something... I can’t tap
into you head, Mr. Rohrer.Knowle doesn’t look at her and keeps his eyes on the road.
MONICA
(after a beat)
Dave’s Bridal Gowns is just
two blocks from here.They drive in silence for a few moments. Scully’s mind is racing with thoughts and theories. After a few more moments she decides to test a theory of her’s.
SCULLY
Monica, I have a question for you.
It’s about something I read about
psychics, if you don’t mind.
MONICA
I don’t mind. Go on.
SCULLY
I read once that psychics can’t always
see their own futures, or know something
that is about them. (beat) Is that true?
MONICA
I don’t know. (beat) You mean when
Brad says he has a surprise for me
and I can’t figure it out?
SCULLY
Yeah.
MONICA
Then... I guess so.
SCULLY
Interesting.Scully gives a quick glance to Knowle.
SCULLY (CON’T)
I guess that’s a good thing, right?
That way you don’t know when or how
you die. (beat; curious) Do you know
when people will die?
MONICA
I’d rather not. I don’t know when
anyone will die. But like earlier,
I knew that if Knowle went to talk
to that guy who was behind us that
he would get shot and killed.
KNOWLE
Like a vision?
MONICA
Yeah. (beat) There are many roads and
paths we could take in our lifetime, and
each choice we make leads to our destiny.
(beat) Ultimately, through all of life’s
detours we always get right back on track
to how our life is supposed to be.Knowle looks thoughtful.
KNOWLE
So wait... are you saying that because
I didn’t go talk to that guy and he
didn’t kill me today, that he will
in the future or something?
MONICA
No because I told you what I
knew, which altered the situation.
(beat) Had I not told you about
his wife, he still would’ve continued
to honk his horn, in which case you
would’ve gone out there and told him
that no one is going anywhere and
to knock it off.Knowle nods his head.
SCULLY
Like you did when he told you
and Monica to stop it with the
“love scene”, right?
MONICA
Yes.Doggett looks lost in the back. Scully is very intrigued by all of this.
MONICA
My ability is just a detour,
but as you see, everything
got right back on track.
SCULLY
(amazed)
Wow.Doggett slowly bites into his granola bar.
MONCIA
Everything happens for a reason.
SCULLY
So you really think our life is
planned out ahead of time?
MONICA
It is, but not the path that we choose.
SCULLY
So you’re saying it’s not like
“Back To The Future” or the
“Terminator” movies.
MONICA
Well... there is no fate
but what we make for ourselves.
(beat) We just don’t know the
path and ultimately we end up
where we are supposed to be. But
life’s course and the choices that
we make determine who we are in the end.
DOGGETT
I’m lost.
KNOWLE
Mon’, you keep unfolding like a flower.Monica smiles.
MONICA
(excited)
Ooh, which one?
KNOWLE
Which flower?
MONICA
Yeah.Knowle thinks.
KNOWLE
I don’t know... I know
you like daisies...
SCULLY
Yeah, she always used to have one
on her desk when she worked at the FBI.
MONICA
How are things at the FBI?
SCULLY
Good. (beat) But I miss seeing
daisies everyday.Monica smiles.
MONICA
Maybe your boyfriend could bring
you your favorite flower everyday...
Right John?Scully and Monica look back at John, putting him in the hot seat.
DOGGETT
(unsure)
I guess so...Doggett scratches the back of his neck.
KNOWLE
Is this it?Knowle points out the front window. Scully sees where he is pointing.
SCULLY
Yes, that’s it.
KNOWLE
Good, there’s a spot open
right in front of it.Knowle parallel parks in front of Dave’s Bridal Gowns.
SCULLY
(excited)
Monica, would you be terribly
offended if I were to try
on some dresses too?
MONICA
I don’t care. Just as long as
I get everyone’s input.Monica smiles. Knowle parks the car and everyone gets out.
INT. DAVE’S BRIDAL GOWNS – CON’T
Monica and Scully walk into the store first. Knowle holds the door open for them. Knowle and Doggett enter and look around. The main color they see is pink.
DOGGETT
(whisper)
I can’t believe we’re here...Knowle gives him a strange look.
KNOWLE
Still thinking with your stomach?
DOGGETT
There’s nothing here for guys.Knowle smiles and pats him on the back.
KNOWLE
See Johnny, that’s where you’re wrong.Doggett looks at him suspiciously.
KNOWLE
We get to watch a
beautiful woman model-
DOGGETT
-It’s just Monica.
KNOWLE
Yeah... But John, will you just
admit that she’s beautiful.Doggett rolls his eyes.
Monica and Scully come up to them.
SCULLY
They have tuxedos here. Maybe
you guys could try them on.
DOGGETT
Nah, that’s all right. (beat) They
don’t happen to have anything
to eat here do they?Scully gives him a look.
Behind them, a short man makes his way over to them with excitement. This man is Dave, he’s in his mid-thirties.
DAVE
(excited)
Dana?Scully and Monica turn to face Dave. Dana and Dave hug – she’s been here before.
SCULLY
It’s so good to see you again.
DAVE
Likewise, gorgeous.Doggett tenses up. Is he hitting on her?
Dave looks behind her and John and Knowle and takes notice of them.
DAVE
(to Scully)
Are we here for you today?
SCULLY
Actually, my friend Monica.
She’s getting married in November.Dave smiles at Monica and goes up to her.
DAVE
So you’re going to be a
November bride?
MONICA
Yes. I’ll be getting married
in Mexico. My family has a
beautiful garden.
DAVE
Ooo... out doors?He looks her over, circling her.
DAVE
I think I know the
perfect dress for you.He smiles at Monica, then looks at John and Knowle.
DAVE
You handsome gentlemen may
have a seat on the couch
over there.Dave smiles at Knowle and John, checking them both out. Dave drags Monica off, Scully follows.
John and Knowle sit down on the couch.
DOGGETT
Was it just me, or was
he hitting on Dana?Knowle smiles with amusement.
KNOWLE
John... he’s gay. (beat) You
mean you didn’t notice him
checking both of us out?
DOGGETT
Oh.Doggett looks at the magazines that are on the table. He cringes.
KNOWLE
You’ve got a strange woman, John.
DOGGETT
(re: magazine selection)
Not even a sports magazine...Knowle looks at him.
KNOWLE
What’s up with you today?
DOGGETT
(grumpy)
Nothing.
KNOWLE
Right. (beat) First you’re grumpy
about not eating. You’re disappointed
to be here. And you’re giving off a... a vibe.Doggett shoots him a look.
DOGGETT
A vibe?
KNOWLE
Yeah. Will you lighten up? We’re
here to help Monica and all you
can think about is your stomach
and the lack of sports magazines.
DOGGETT
(grumpy)
I’m not grumpy. I’m hungry.
Remember, I didn’t eat because
I was told we were taste testing
wedding cakes today.Knowle rolls his eyes.
KNOWLE
Just lighten up, will ya?Knowle picks up “Home & Garden” magazine and starts to flip through it.
DOGGETT
Have an interest in home
and garden suddenly?
KNOWLE
(not complaining)
Nothin’ else to do, that’s all.Dave comes up to them.
DAVE
She’s trying on the first dress,
and she’s going to look absolutely
stunning. (beat) Would you like
anything to eat or drink while you wait?
DOGGETT
(eager)
Yes, I would.
DAVE
All right. I’ll bring you
some tea and crackers.Dave smiles at them.
DOGGETT
Finally. I’ll get something to eat.
KNOWLE
(not looking up from magazine)
And hopefully you’ll stop your bitching.
Doggett gives him a look.
DOGGETT
(after a short beat)
I’m not bitching.
KNOWLE
In the car you bitched about
the traffic jam. Then you
bitched about being hungry. (beat)
You bitch... a lot.
DOGGETT
No I don’t.Scully comes up to them. She has a tuxedo in her hands. She stands right in front of John and smiles.
SCULLY
(sweet)
I want you to try this on.She holds out the tuxedo for him.
DOGGETT
Why?
SCULLY
So you can have something nice
and new to wear at Monica and
Brad’s wedding, Mr. Grumpy.
DOGGETT
But I thought we were here
for Monica today. (beat) Besides,
I’m not going to buy my tux
from Dave’s Bridal Gowns.Scully gives him a disapproving look.
SCULLY
John, Dave has the best
fabric in the city. (beat)
Believe me, I know.She gives him a stern look. Doggett lets out a sigh and stands up, taking the tuxedo.
DOGGETT
Fine, but when they bring
out the food, I’m eating.Scully smiles at him as he walks off to try on the tuxedo. She takes a seat on the couch and looks at Knowle, who is pretending not to notice her.
SCULLY
How long have you known Monica?Knowle glances up at her for a split second, then flips the page of the magazine and looks back down.
KNOWLE
Since I was six.Scully nods her head.
SCULLY
So you’re probably like
John and see her as a sister.Knowle doesn’t look up from the magazine.
KNOWLE
Sure.
SCULLY
You don’t pick on her as
much as John does though.Knowle glances up at her, but doesn’t say anything.
SCULLY
Are you friends with Brad?
KNOWLE
Yes. Met him in high school.Scully nods her head.
SCULLY
What do you think of him?
KNOWLE
Nice guy. Cares a lot for
Monica. Takes good care of her.Scully watches him for a moment.
SCULLY
You’re protective of her too. More
so than if you were protecting
someone who is like a sister to you.Knowle looks up at her.
KNOWLE
What do you mean?
SCULLY
When you and I first met at
that facility in New York, you
threatened my life and would do
it if you knew you could’ve gotten her out.Knowle looks away.
SCULLY
Then you told her “semper fi” when
you helped us get out of there
on Christmas Eve.Scully watches his blank reaction as he pretends to read the “Home & Garden” magazine. She knows what “semper fi” means between she and John and wonders if it could have the seam meaning for Knowle. That was her initial thought when she heard him say it to her before they parted, for what they thought could have been a lifetime.
Before she can get a response from him, Monica comes out in a wedding dress.
MONICA
Well?Knowle looks up and drops the magazine to the floor. Monica turns around slowly so they can get a better look at her.
KNOWLE
(quiet)
Whoa...
SCULLY
Wow. Monica, you look amazing.Monica smiles.
MONICA
Thank you. (beat) Where’s John?
DOGGETT
Behind you.Monica turns around to see John in a tuxedo.
MONICA
Oh, you look handsome.
Dana has good taste.
SCULLY
John, you look very sexy.
(beat) What do you think of Monica?Doggett looks at her and shrugs his shoulders.
DOGGETT
She looks nice.
KNOWLE
(disbelief)
“Looks nice”?Knowle stands up and goes up to Monica. He places his hands on her bare shoulders.
KNOWLE
John, I want you to take a good
look at her. (beat) She does not
look like someone who “looks nice”.
She’s absolutely gorgeous.Monica blushes a bit. Doggett gives Knowle a strange look.
DOGGETT
But she’s Monica. She looks
funny in a dress.Monica’s jaw drops open. Knowle looks at John for a moment in disbelief.
KNOWLE
John... forget for a moment that
you’re strange and for some reason
or another can’t find Monica attractive.
DOGGETT
(not really caring)
Ok, she looks very beautiful.Knowle rolls his eyes, knowing John’s only saying that to get himself out of a hole.
SCULLY
Well I think she’s stunning.
KNOWLE
(to Doggett)
See, she knows.Dave comes over.
DAVE
(to Monica)
Oh my. Wow. You are the
definition of perfection.Dave smiles at Monica.
DAVE
Do you like it?Monica looks down at the gown.
MONICA
It’s very pretty...
KNOWLE
(to Dave)
Do you have a mirror so
she can see herself?
DAVE
Of course. This way.Dave leads Monica and Knowle over to a mirror. Behind them, Doggett heads towards the dressing rooms to get changed. Scully makes her way over to a few dresses and she looks at them.
Dave brings Monica and Knowle to the mirror. Knowle places Monica in front of it. He stands behind her.
KNOWLE
(whispers in her ear)
You’re gorgeous.Monica smiles as she takes a good look at herself.
MONICA
Wow.Dave smiles.
MONICA
But there’s one problem.
DAVE
(worried)
Oh?
MONICA
It’s a little... itchy.Monica makes an uncomfortable expression.
DAVE
Itchy?
MONICA
Yeah. The fabric... it itches.
It feels... mass produced.Dave blinks. He’s never gotten complaints before, and he certainly has never received a “mass produced” complaint either.
DAVE
(confused)
The fabric isn’t soft enough?
MONICA
It’s hard to explain.
It just itches.
KNOWLE
An allergy?
MONICA
No... it’s mass produced.
DAVE
Maybe we can try another
one with better materials.Monica shrugs her shoulders and she and Dave walk off. Knowle walks back over to the couch, where Doggett is. Doggett is snacking on crackers. Knowle sits next to him.
DOGGETT
Where did Dana go?
KNOWLE
I don’t know.Doggett holds out the plate of crackers to Knowle.
DOGGETT
Cracker?Knowle shakes his head, “no”.
Meanwhile...
Monica slips into another dress in one of the dressing rooms. She runs her hands across the fabric. She smiles to herself and looks up into the mirror. Her smiles starts to fade as she stares at herself. Tears sting her eyes as a wave of intense grief washes over her. Tears start to fall uncontrollably from her eyes as she feels pain from within, as if her heart has been shattered into a million pieces. A scream of grief escapes her, and she becomes weak and falls to the floor. Tears fall down the side of her face.
A moment later, the door is opened and Knowle comes in, having heard her scream. He immediately kneels down next to her.
KNOWLE
(concerned)
Monica?Doggett stands outside the dressing room with a worried look on his face.
Monica doesn’t respond to Knowle. Tears continue to fall and she brings her knees closer to her, shutting everyone out. She doesn’t understand why she is feeling so much pain and grief.
Knowle places his hand on her face, turning her head so she can look at him.
KNOWLE
(soft/worried)
Sweetheart?She continues to cry uncontrollably.
DOGGETT
(urgent)
DANA!Moments later, Scully comes up to John, not noticing Monica. She is wearing a wedding dress and panic is on her face.
SCULLY
(determined)
John, we have to get married. Now.
Today. We can go down to the court
house and do it now. Mon and Knowle
can be our witnesses.Doggett looks at her in shock. He’s been caught off guard by her.
SCULLY (CON’T)
I wasted eight years of my life
with Walter, and that included
two engagements. I don’t want to
waste anymore of my life. I’m old
you know. So lets go to the court-
DOGGETT
-Dana!Scully stops talking.
SCULLY
(confused)
What?
DOGGETT
Monica’s collapsed, Dr. Scully.Scully looks into the dressing room and sees Monica. She’s in immediate doctor mode and goes to Monica’s side.
SCULLY
(stern)
Monica?Monica doesn’t respond and continues to cry. Scully looks at Knowle, who hasn’t taken his eyes off of Monica.
SCULLY
(worried)
What happened?Knowle shakes his head.
KNOWLE
(worried)
Heard her scream, came in,
found her like this.Scully looks back down at Monica.
KNOWLE
(stern)
Monica, its Knowle. Look at me.Monica’s eyes open, read with tears. She sits up and immediately wraps her arms around Knowle’s neck. He wraps his arms around her with concern, holding her tightly to him to comfort her the best he can. She continues to cry, but finds herself calming down.
KNOWLE
(soft)
Sweetheart, what is it?Monica wipes her tears away.
MONICA P> She takes a couple of deep breaths to calm herself.
(crying)
I don’t know.
MONICA
This wave of inner grief just
swept through me. As if a part
of my heart had been taken away
from me. (beat) I don’t understand it.She wipes more tears away.
MONICA
(upset)
I’m sorry.She starts to cry again. Knowle kisses the top of her head, hoping to comfort her.
KNOWLE
(comforting)
Shh... it’s okay. You’re okay.
MONICA
(crying)
Don’t tell Brad. (beat) I haven’t been
taking my medication and this is probably
a result of that. He’ll be so mad at me.Scully looks at her with concern. She’s not taking her medication?
SCULLY
(doctor-like)
Monica, I want to check you
over to make sure you aren’t
hurt or anything. Okay?Monica nods her head, but doesn’t pull away from Knowle.
SCULLY
Can you walk?Monica shakes her head “no”, feeling she’s still too weak to stand or walk.
Scully checks Monica’s head.
SCULLY
Do you feel light headed?
MONICA
No.
SCULLY
I don’t feel any bumps on
your head. (beat) You seem
to be all right.Monica nods her head.
KNOWLE
Perhaps we should call it a
day with wedding dresses.Monica nods her head.
DOGGETT
Maybe she’s hungry too.Scully, Monica and Knowle look up at John. It was only a matter of time...
Monica looks at Scully and smiles.
MONICA
You look beautiful, by the way.Scully looks at her and smiles after a beat. Scully feels rather foolish for wearing the dress and then demanding that she and John get married right at that moment. Scully smiles and quietly laughs.
CUT TO:
INT. TONY’S PIZZERIA – NOON
Doggett and Scully enter the restaurant. Doggett holds the door for Knowle and Monica. Monica is still weak from what she experienced at Dave’s Bridal Gowns, and Knowle helps her walk in. Scully watches Monica with a watchful doctor’s eye. She’s worried for Monica since she heard Monica say she hasn’t been taking her medicine that John Montgomery gave to her.
They take a seat at a table by a window.
KNOWLE
(picking up menu)
Tony’s has the best pizza
in the state you know.
DOGGETT
Really?Monica squeezes her eyes shut and brings her palm to her temple, feeling intense pain in her head. Scully takes notice.
KNOWLE
Yeah. They were awarded an award
for best pizza this year. They make
their sauce fresh everyday. And
with spices imported from Italy.Monica gets up without a word, and in a daze she makes her way across the restaurant and into the bathroom. Everyone watches her with worry. Scully gets up without a word and follows Monica.
Knowle looks at John with worry.
KNOWLE
Is she all right?Doggett shrugs his shoulders.
DOGGETT
I don’t know.CUT TO:
INT. LADIES RESTROOM – CON’T
Scully enters the restroom. Monica is nowhere in sight. However, soft crying can be heard from one of the stalls.
SCULLY
(worried)
Monica?The crying stops.
MONICA
(acting all right)
Just a moment.Scully sense that Monica is covering a lie and walks towards the last stall. She knocks on the stall door quietly.
SCULLY
Monica, I’m good at knowing
when someone isn’t all right.
(beat) Need to talk?A moment later, Monica comes out of the stall.
MONICA
I’m fine.She walks by Scully and over to the sink. Scully turns and watches her splash water on her face.
SCULLY
Do you know how many times I’ve
used the “I’m fine” card, and
I was the exact opposite?Monica looks up at Scully through the mirror and lets out a heavy sigh.
SCULLY
What’s wrong?Monica turns to face Scully.
MONICA
I just have a headache. That’s all.
SCULLY
I don’t think that’s all.Scully looks at her with concern.
MONICA
(after a beat)
Okay. I’m worried Brad is going
to find out about my collapse earlier.
SCULLY
Why shouldn’t he know?
MNOICA
Because I haven’t taken the
medication he thinks I’m taking.
SCULLY
Why aren’t you taking it?Monica lets out a sigh. She’s sick of having this conversation.
MONICA
Because.Monica looks down. Scully observes her for a moment.
SCULLY
It’s about control, isn’t it?Monica looks up at her.
SCULLY (CON’T)
Taking the medication reminds you
of the facility you were locked up
in. All the pain and suffering you
endured. (beat) The isolation.Tears come to Monica’s eyes and she looks away. Scully’s hit the problem on the bull’s eye.
SCULLY
(after a beat)
You haven’t talked to Brad about
any of what happened, have you?Monica quietly shakes her head “no”.
MONICA
Not all of it. (beat) I’ve told him
technical details. I don’t let him
know how I’m feeling now.Scully listens.
MONICA
He’s just been so busy with work
recently. I feel that he doesn’t
have time for me anymore. (beat)
Things were easier when I was still
at the Bureau, you know?
SCULLY
Because you didn’t have time to
think about all that happened to you?Monica nods her head “yes”.
SCULLY
It’s important that you talk to
him, Monica. Don’t bottle everything
up. (beat) Feeling depressed is part
of the healing process, but if you
never move pass that point, you’re doomed.Monica takes in a deep breath, swallowing her tears.
MONICA
It’s hard when he’s so preoccupied
with work, and me finding a job.Scully observes and takes notice that Monica isn’t happy – and probably not ready – about getting a new job.
MONICA
There’s just a lot going on right
now. (beat) I’d rather enjoy today
and forget about everything that’s
bothering me. Okay?Monica smiles and heads out of the restroom.
CUT TO:
INT. RESTAURANT DINING AREA – CON’T
Monica takes a seat next to Knowle and quietly picks up a menu. Scully sits down next to John. Knowle and Doggett look at both of them with concern.
DOGGETT
You okay, Mon’?Monica doesn’t look up from the menu.
MONICA
I’m good. (beat) You know what
sounds good right now? (beat)
Pineapple-chicken pizza.
KNOWLE
Mon, you read my mind.Monica smiles at Knowle.
SCULLY
I’ve never tried that before. Is it good?
DOGGETT
No. (beat) Cheese is the best.
MONICA
It’s the best Dana, you’ll love it.
KNOWLE
How about we order a
large of that then.
DOGGETT
What about cheese?Knowle laughs.
KNOWLE
Live a little, John.
DOGGETT
Fine, get your own weird pizza,
and I’ll get a personal cheese
pizza all for me.He smiles proudly. Scully smiles at him.
SCULLY
One day John... oh yes, one
day I’ll get you to try
something different. (beat) I promise.Knowle leans over to Monica and puts his arm on the back of her chair.
KNOWLE
(whisper/concerned)
Is everything all right?Monica looks at him and nods her head.
MONICA
I just had a bad headache.Knowle nods his head.
KNOWLE
Brought on by what happened earlier?Monica looks away from him, but nods her head “yes”.
The waiter approaches their table.
WAITER
Are you ready to order drinks?
DOGGETT
I’ll have one of those mini
personal cheese pizzas.The waiter nods his head and writes down John’s order.
MONICA
And the three of us are going to
split a large pizza with pineapple and chicken.The waiter writes down the order.
WAITER
Would you like breadsticks?
SCULLY
No, this will be fine.
WAITER
All right. And what about to drink?
SCULLY
Raspberry lemonade.
DOGGETT
I’ll have that too.
MONICA
Me too.
KNOWLE
And I’ll have an ice tea, please.The waiter nods his head.
WAITER
All right. I’ll be right out with
your drinks, and your pizzas will
be out in about thirty minutes.Doggett shows disappointment. He’s starving.
MONICA
(to waiter)
If the personal cheese pizza
finishes before the large, you
can go ahead and bring it out.
WAITER
Okay.He smiles and walks away. Doggett grins happily.
MONICA
Don’t say I never did
nothin’ for ya.
DOGGETT
Thank you.
KNOWLE
Hey Mon’, doesn’t this place
remind you of that one hole
in the wall restaurant in Providence?Monica looks around.
MONICA
Yeah. It kind of does, doesn’t it?
SCULLY
Providence?
DOGGETT
They went to Brown University together.
SCULLY
Oh, I see.The waiter comes and brings their drinks and walks away. Knowle takes a sip of his ice tea.
KNOWLE
This is the best damn drink
I’ve ever had.
SCULLY
Then you should try the
raspberry lemonade. It’s even better.
DOGGETT
She’s right. You’re missing out.
MONICA
Here, try some of mine.Monica hands her drink to Knowle, who takes a sip. He nods his head with approval.
KNOWLE
You’re absolutely right. (beat)
I’m missing out.He hands the drink back to Monica.
MONICA
So Dana, did you see any Bride’s
Maids dresses at Dave’s you liked?Scully bites her lower lip with guilt.
SCULLY
Actually... I didn’t really
look... I was... um...
MONICA
More interested in the wedding dresses?Monica smiles at Scully.
SCULLY
(guilty)
Yeah.
MONICA
That’s all right. We still have time.
DOGGETT
You’re getting married in about two
months. Are you sure you’ll have time?
KNOWLE
Of course she will. She’s a Reyes.
MONICA
Velázquez-Reyes.
DOGGETT
Soon to be Follmer.Monica smiles.
DOGGETT
Speaking of Brad. What’s
he up to today?
MONICA
Well, he’s probably sleeping
in since it’s a Saturday. Then
he’ll more than likely work
on some OPR paperwork.
DOGGETT
He’s been busy fixing corruption, huh?Monica smiles weakly, trying to not look bothered by how much work Brad has been doing lately.
MONICA
Yeah. Well, you know how Alvin and
the Director are. They don’t want him
to have many people in that office, so
he has to do it all himself until he
can convince them to give him more agents
to investigate the “petty” incidents. (beat)
Besides he couldn’t join us today because
I was trying on wedding dresses.
SCULLY
It’s tradition.
KNOWLE
Yeah, we don’t want you two
to have bad luck.During this conversation, John seems to have slipped his thoughts elsewhere.
DOGGETT
Hey Knowle, what does Shannon
think of your goatee?
KNOWLE
My goatee?Doggett nods his head.
KNOWLE
I don’t know. Why?
DOGGETT
Well I know some women
don’t like facial hair.
SCULLY
John? Are you thinking of
growing a goatee too?Doggett smiles.
DOGGETT
You think I should?
SCULLY
The FBI wouldn’t allow it.Doggett shrugs his shoulders.
SCULLY
So Monica, do you think you’ll
buy a dress from Dave’s? He’s
got the best designs in the city.
MONICA
He had some nice dresses, but
they were too mass produced.Scully looks at her with confusion.
SCULLY
What does that mean?
MONICA
They weren’t comfortable. Not
made with heart. (beat) And they itched.
SCULLY
Really?
KNOWLE
Monica’s strange about
things made for the masses.
DOGGETT
Strange is an understatement.
SCULLY
I don’t think I get it.Monica smiles.
MONICA
My mother makes all of my clothing.Scully cocks her eyebrow.
SCULLY
(intrigued)
Really?
MONICA
Yes.
SCULLY
Wow, I never would’ve guessed.
(beat) She made what you’re wearing now?Monica nods her head.
SCULLY
And I was going to ask you
where you bought it. (beat)
She’s really good. Why don’t
you have her make your dress?
DOGGETT
There’s no time.
KNOWLE
You’re so negative, John. (beat)
I mean, she could probably make
it and it would be better than
anything store bought because it
would be made with care and from the heart.
DOGGETT
I’m not negative. I’m just pointing
out a fact. (beat) She’s getting married
in November, and today is the third of
September. (beat) There’s no time.
KNOWLE
You just don’t believe in
a Reyes, do you?
DOGGETT
She’s only human.
MONICA
There’s no point in arguing
this since it’s my issue, right?
KNOWLE
I know, but I’m just
pointing out that it is possible.
DOGGETT
But it isn’t.Behind them, a woman coughs, turning the attention behind Monica and Knowle to see Shannon McMahon.
SHANNON
(not pleased)
Hello Knowle.Knowle looks behind him and up at Shannon.
KNOWLE
(nervous)
Oh hey, Shan’.
SHANNON
So this is where you are. Why
didn’t you tell me you were
going out for lunch with friends?There is tension between Knowle and Shannon.
KNOWLE
Since when am I supposed to
tell you every move I make?
SHANNON
(sighs)
Well it would’ve been nice to
know where you were this morning.Knowle takes a sip of his tea.
KNOWLE
I was helping Monica find
a wedding dress-
SHANNON
(doubtful)
-Oh yeah, that’s believable.
MONICA
Actually, he was Shannon-
SHANNON
(snaps; angry)
-Stay out of this, Monica.Knowle shoots a look at Shannon and stands up.
KNOWLE
(defensive)
Don’t talk to her like that.Scully stands up, sensing a tense and possibly heated argument that could turn ugly.
SCULLY
(keeping the peace)
Okay you two...Scully steps in between them. John stands up, ready for anything. Scully did just step in between two mad Marines, and one of which doesn’t like her.
Another man approaches them from another table. Knowle and Shannon continue their glares. The other man touches Shannon on her shoulder.
MAN
Shannon.Shannon breaks eye contact and looks back at the man.
MAN
Let’s just get back to our table.Knowle looks at the man.
KNOWLE
Who are you?
MAN
Roger Thompson. I’m a General
with the United States Marine Corps.The man extends his hand to Knowle and they shake.
KNOWLE
Knowle Rohrer, Corporal E-4, USMC.
(beat) How do you know Shannon?
SHANNON
We’re friends.Shannon gives Knowle a glare and then walks off with Roger Thompson.
Knowle turns and takes a seat again. Scully does as well, along with Doggett. Knowle takes a big drink of his ice tea. He senses everyone looking at him. He finishes his drink and puts the glass down on the table.
MONICA
(concerned)
Knowle... are you all right?
KNOWLE
Yeah, why?
DOGGETT
Because Shannon just walked off with-
KNOWLE
-You know what else is great
about this place? (beat) Besides
their ice tea and pizza?No one responds. They don’t know what to say.
KNOWLE (CON’T)
Their ice.
DOGGETT
Ice? Ice is ice.
KNOWLE
That’s where you’re wrong, Johnny. (beat)
The quality of ice varies from place
to place. It depends on how the employees
take care of it. (beat) Here at Tony’s,
they keep their ice freezers clean. Other
restaurants will keep their ice over
night, not even cleaning the freezers.
DOGGETT
You’ve got a strange thing
for ice, Knowle.
KNOWLE
Have you ever been to a restaurant,
ordered a glass of water with ice,
and then went home feeling ill?
DOGGETT
Yeah. It’s called food poisoning.
KNOWLE
Where was it?Doggett shrugs his shoulders.
DOGGETT
Don’t remember.
KNOWLE
Sure you do. Was it
somewhere you’ve been a lot?
DOGGETT
Maybe.
KNOWLE
You ordered the same thing
you always did, right?
DOGGETT
Probably.
KNOWLE
And in the past, you didn’t
get sick, right?Doggett thinks, then nods his head.
DOGGETT
Right.
SCULLY
It was chloramine.
KNOWLE
Exactly.Knowle points to Scully, then looks at Doggett.
KNOWLE
Chloramine.
DOGGETT
I thought that was good
to have in water.
KNOWLE
It causes you to have an upset stomach,
making you think you’ve got a minor
case of food poisoning. When really,
it was the ice you had with your water.
SCULLY
You know a lot about random
things, don’t you?
KNOWLE
Yeah, I guess so.
MONICA
He once majored to be
a chef in college.Scully looks at Knowle oddly. She never would’ve guessed he could be one to cook.
The waiter comes over and brings both pizzas to the table. Doggett smiles, forgetting any problems or issues that have happened today.
CUT TO:
INT. WEDDING CAKE BAKERY – 1:30 P.M.
Doggett, Scully and Knowle are standing near the counter looking at all the cakes. Scully is examining them closely to have a good idea of what they should test.
Meanwhile, Monica is on her cell phone across the store. She is talking with Brad.
MONICA
(into phone)
It’s been fun. You’ve missed out on
a lot. Dana tried on a wedding dress
and proposed to John. (beat; laughs)
No, they aren’t married. (beat) Anyway,
I was wondering if you wanted to come
downtown to test cakes with us. (long
beat; her expression changes to
disappointment) Oh, okay. I figured
you were busy, but thought I’d ask anyway.In the background, Knowle is watching, taking notice of Monica’s disappointment. He looks worried.
MNOICA
(after a beat)
Yeah, I can do that. (laughs a bit)
I can’t guarantee I can keep John’s
paws off of them. He’s been rather
hungry today.Monica laughs again.
MONICA (CON’T)
All right. I’ll see you later then.
(beat) I love you too.She hangs up her phone and lets out a little sigh as she puts her phone away. She comes over to John, Dana and Knowle.
DOGGETT
Is he coming?
MONICA
(hiding disappointment)
No, he can’t. He’s busy.She smiles weakly.
MONICA (CON’T)
But he did ask me to take home some
samples so he can try them too. (beat)
Which means, Mr. Hungry Doggett, you
can’t eat any that we take away from here.Doggett smiles.
DOGGETT
I promise. Scouts honor.The baker comes over to them.
BAKER
Are you ready to start taste testing?
The baker smiles eagerly.
DOGGETT
(enthusiastic)
Yes we are.
BAKER
All right. Here is the first I
have prepared for you.He hands a plate with four small squares of cake on it over the counter to them. Monica takes the first piece and nods in approval. She hands the plate to Knowle, who hands it to John, who hands it to Scully.
BAKER
This is my specialty cake.
White with vanilla frosting.
It is used at all the weddings.
MONICA
It’s very good.
DOGGETT
Yeah, I could have another.Doggett grins and Scully nudges him lightly in the stomach. The baker hands over another plate.
BAKER
This one is a marble cake with
vanilla and chocolate mixed together.Monica takes a piece and hands the plate down the line.
KNOWLE
I think this should be your cake, Mon’.
MONICA
It is very good.The baker smiles.
BAKER
I’ve got plenty more.
DOGGETT
Got any ice cream or
something to try with this too?The baker nods his head.
BAKER
Of course. (beat) I’ll go get some.
MONICA
I’m also going to need to take
some samples of each home for
my fiancé. He wasn’t able
to make it today.
BAKER
Not a problem.The baker smiles and goes into the back kitchen to get more.
SCULLY
Mon, are you going to shove the
cake in Brad’s face at the reception,
or are you going to be clean about it?
MONICA
Depends.She smiles.
SCULLY
I’d be the one to throw cake
in the face... just as long
as my husband didn’t do the
same to me.Monica laughs.
SCULLY
Have you practiced your kiss?
MONICA
We kiss all the time.
SCULLY
Not everyday kissing. Your wedding
kiss. There’s a difference.
MONICA
No, I guess not. (beat) It’s not
like we’re going to gross out
everyone or anything like that.
SCULLY
Yeah, but it is your wedding
kiss Monica. You have to get it perfect.
MONICA
Well, I know how I want it to
be. (beat) Not too long. Not too
short. Tongues aren’t going to
be stuck down our throats in
wild passion, but just a
little, you know?
DOGGETT
Show us.Monica gives him a weird look.
MONICA
Excuse me?
DOGGETT
Show us what you mean.
MONICA
(appauled)
With you?
DOGGETT
(disgusted)
Ew! No!
KNOWLE
It’s not like she’s repulsive, John.
DOGGETT
(to Monica)
Show us on Knowle. He’ll kiss anyone.
Knowle freezes.
KNOWLE
(nervous)
I-I don’t think that
would be right, John.Knowle nervously scratches the back of his neck. Scully tilts her head and cocks her eyebrow. From what she’s heard of Knowle in the past, he’s not the one to be nervous about kissing a woman...
DOGGETT
What? Are you scared?
KNOWLE
I’m not scared. It’s just
that she’s with Brad.
DOGGETT
That didn’t stop you in the past.
KNOWLE
That was high school, John.
MONICA
It’s not a big deal you guys.
If Knowle doesn’t want to kiss
me, he doesn’t have to.Knowle looks at Monica.
KNOWLE
(nervous)
Wait... are you saying you
want to kiss me?
MONICA
Well Dana is right. So I think
maybe I should get some opinions
of what I have in my mind.Knowle freezes in shock.
KNOWLE
(after a beat/nervous)
Uh... okay... If-if you want
to, I-I don’t mind.He rubs that back of his neck. Scully can’t help but smiles at the Big Guy being all nervous about having Monica kiss him.
Monica gives him a curious look.
MONICA
Knowle, you all right?Knowle stops rubbing the back of his neck, realizing the nervous habit he was doing.
KNOWLE
(a little too quick)
Yeah, why?
MONICA
You just seem really nervous.Knowle smiles and nervously laughs it off.
KNOWLE
You’re talkin’ crazy.
MONICA
I’m not going to bite, Knowle.Monica comes up to him.
MONICA
I just need an opinion.
KNOWLE
No problem.He smiles down at her as she puts her arms around his neck, gently bringing his lips down to meet hers, gently opening her mouth and inserting her tongue to meet his. Knowle shuts his eyes, and slowly and gently runs his hand across her face, pulling her into a more passionate kiss than what was anticipated. After a moment, they part – both a little winded.
Scully is wide-eyed.
MONICA
(quiet)
Wow...
SCULLY
(shocked)
Yeah, wow is right.Scully looks at Knowle, who takes a step back from Monica, in a little bit of disbelief as he realizes how he just kissed her. He rubs the back of his neck nervously.
DOGGETT
(oblivious)
Mon, you should do it exactly
like that at your wedding.
MONICA
(a bit in a daze)
Yeah... (beat) Well Knowle (clears
throat) Thank you for helping me.Knowle clears his throat.
KNOWLE
(hiding his feelings)
Yeah. No problem.The baker comes out, followed by other employees carrying ice cream and cake.
BAKER
Okay, we have plenty more
to test today.Doggett eyes light up.
DOGGETT
(excited)
Sweet.Scully smiles at John, and her eyes glance at Knowle and Monica – something was definitely sensed from Knowle during that kiss, and now Knowle is giving off an awkward vibe, which therefore creates an awkward tension between him and Monica.
CUT TO:
EXT. PARK – FALLS CHURCH, VIRGINIA – 3:00 P.M.
Doggett and Scully are strolling down a walking trail, holding hands, enjoying the fresh air.
DOGGETT
Oh man, I’m completely full.
I’m skipping dinner tonight.Scully smiles.
SCULLY
Me too. That cake was good, but
I had too much. (beat) It’s a good
thing we all agreed on going to
the park to walk.
DOGGETT
I’m just glad I didn’t eat
before going out today. Or
else I’d be running with Mon and Knowle.He laughs.
SCULLY
(playfully defensive)
Hey, what does that mean for me
if I’m sluggishly walking with you?
DOGGETT
It doesn’t matter. Walking is
better for your joints.
SCULLY
Exactly. (beat) Besides, I bet
we’ll find them sitting somewhere
waiting for us.
DOGGETT
Probably.They walk in silence for a few beats.
SCULLY
So your friend Knowle... he’s interesting.
DOGGETT
(sighs)
I’m sorry about him and how
rude he was to you a couple
times today. It’s just-
SCULLY
-It’s not that that I find
interesting. I can see where
he’s coming from. (beat) What
I find interesting about him,
is how he’s been acting
around Monica today.Doggett looks confused.
DOGGETT
What do you mean? He’s always
been this way with her.
SCULLY
Even with that kiss?
DOGGETT
He’s a player.
SCULLY
I know players, and that didn’t
seem like a “player’s kiss” to me.Doggett shakes his head.
DOGGETT
What are you saying?
SCULLY
I think he loves Monica.Doggett can’t help but burst out laughing at that one.
DOGGETT
Oh Dana, you’re lookin’ too deep.
(laughs) The Roar doesn’t love.
Remember his fear of the L-M-C-Cs?Scully nods her head.
SCULLY
Yeah I do, but that doesn’t
mean he can’t change.
DOGGETT
(humored)
Dana, when we find him, I want
you to ask him about a pact that
was made in high school between
him and I, and then ask about
the laminated card he carries.Scully gives him a strange look.
SCULLY
(curious)
Laminated card?Doggett nods his head. He can’t help but be tickled and humored by what Scully is telling him.
SCULLY
Maybe you just don’t see it because
you’ve been around him for so many
years. (beat) I mean, come on, John,
Knowle defended Monica when his girlfriend
snapped at her. Did you see how he
stood up quick to defend her. It was
like you when I stepped in between them.Doggett shakes his head.
DOGGETT
(humored)
You’re reaching.CUT TO:
EXT. PARK – A LITTLE WAYS AWAY FROM DOGGETT & SCULLY
Monica and Knowle jog casually down the walking path. Monica is starting to fall behind. She can’t keep up with Knowle.
MONICA
(slowing down)
Okay Knowle. You win. You out run me.She stops running, and Knowle turns around and walks back to her.
MONICA
(exhausted)
I’m so slow.Knowle smiles at her.
KNOWLE
You just don’t run as
much as I do.
MONICA
I also don’t have to since I’m
not a federal agent anymore. (beat)
Can we sit on the bench over there?
I need to catch my breath. (beat)
You’re tough to keep up with.Knowle laughs a little and smiles at her.
KNOWLE
Sure. Let’s go rest and wait
for John and Dana.Knowle puts his arm around Monica’s shoulder and they walk over to the bench that is in a little clearing looking out at the walking path.
A man, dressed all in black with a black trench coat, is walking towards them. Dark shades cover his eyes and his hair is cut extremely short. He takes off his sunglasses and his eyes meet with Monica’s. The man smoothly pulls a small, white card out of one of his coat pockets.
MAN
(eerie, mysterious, vague)
You’re bound to get hurt going
down the path you’ve chosen
for yourself, Monica.As he walks by Monica and Knowle, he places the card in Monica’s hand. She and Knowle turn to watch the mysterious man walk away.
MAN
It’s time to discover who
you are, Monica.The man doesn’t even turn to look at them.
KNOWLE
Hey!The man keeps walking.
KNOWLE
HEY!Knowle makes a motion, as if he’s going to go after the man. Monica stops him.
MONICA
It’s okay, Knowle.Knowle looks down at her. Her eyes still focus on the strange man walking away from them.
KNOWLE
You know him?
MONICA
No.She looks down at her hand and holds up the white, business sized card. It is blank. She turns it over and sees an address printed in black in the middle of the card.
KNOWLE
What is it?
MONICA
(vague)
Something I should go to.She turns around and walks towards the bench. Knowle stands for a moment at a complete loss. He follows and sits down next to her.
KNOWLE
So what is this “something
you should go to”?
MONICA
A psychic support group.She puts the card in her wallet.
KNOWLE
How do you know that card
is for a psychic support-Knowle stops himself when he realizes how she knows. Monica smiles at him.
MONICA
I just know. (beat) Like he knew
my name, saw my ability.Knowle shakes his head.
KNOWLE
I don’t know, Monica. He gave
me the creeps. I don’t trust
him, and I don’t want you
getting hurt.Monica takes a deep breath and slowly exhales.
MONICA
I don’t have anyone else who
understands what I’m going through.She leans back on the bench.
MONICA (CON’T)
Brad’s so busy, it just seems like
he doesn’t care or want anything to
do with this. Sometimes I think the
only reason he wants me to take the
damn medication is so he doesn’t have
to deal with me.Tears come to her eyes.
KNOWLE
(caring)
You say you “think”. You don’t
know for sure? Even with your ability?
MONICA
Dana brought up the same issue
this morning. (beat) A psychic
can not see or know things that
are going or currently are happening
to them. (beat) So I don’t know what
Brad thinks about all of this. (beat)
It’s the one thing I wish I knew.Monica stares off into the park at children playing.
MONICA
(after a beat)
I haven’t talked to him about things
that happened to me at that research
facility. I’m afraid to face it, and that
fear makes me think Brad won’t understand.
(beat) His work is more important to
him than I am.Monica shuts her eyes, and a couple tears fall down her face. Knowle listens to her.
MONICA
(after a beat)
You know, a while back I was thinking
of leaving Brad for this guy I used to
be involved with in New Orleans. (beat)
Robert, the guy, he doesn’t know about
the facility. He doesn’t know about my
psychic ability, about the daughter I
lost. He doesn’t know anything I’ve been
through. (beat) I was going to leave Brad
for him because-She starts to cry. Knowle puts his arms around her, and pulls her into a hug that is more appreciated than he even knows.
KNOWLE
(soft; finishing her sentence)
Because you believed that being with
this Robert guy would make things easier, right?Monica nods her head and wipes tears away.
KNOWLE (CON’T)
You could forget everything with him.
Move on in your life and never look
back. (beat) Push all your fears, feelings
and emotions to the back of your soul
and never see them again. (beat) Just
like when you went to New Orleans before.
And just like when you were involved with
this guy before. (beat) Am I right?Monica nods her head and wipes more tears away. Her crying has stopped.
KNOWLE
(after a beat)
I don’t think I have to tell you
this, but that would only make
things worse for you.
MONICA
I know. (beat) I would never
face anything that happened to
me. I would never emotionally move on.She takes a deep breath. Knowle lifts her face so she can look into his eyes. He gently wipes away the remainder of her tears from her face.
MONICA
(after a beat)
I feel guilty for having those thoughts.
KNOWLE
It’s natural, Monica. Don’t feel
guilty. (beat) You didn’t run off
to him. You made the correct decision,
and that, sweetheart, has saved you.Monica smiles weakly.
MONICA
I still don’t know how to talk
to him. How do I tell him why I
don’t want to take my medicine?
(beat) My God, we’ve been through
that argument a thousand times over.
(beat) Again and again and again.
It’s all the same. (beat) I can’t
get him to understand.Tears come again to her eyes.
MONICA (CON’T)
I mean, I lost a daughter and I
can’t bring it up with him. He
doesn’t even try to bring it up
with me. (beat) Does he not care?
Or is it because he wasn’t there?
Maybe it’s because he barely knew
I was pregnant.Monica sits quietly, trying to understand. But the same thought keeps entering her mind: Brad’s job.
She shakes her head.
MONICA
(after a beat)
He cares more about his job, Knowle.Knowle watches her. Tears forming in his eyes. It hurts him to see her so sad, depressed, hurt, and feeling like she isn’t cared for – especially when he knows how much Brad loves and cares for her.
MONICA
(after a long beat)
This is why I’m going to
this meeting, Knowle. (beat)
I have no one who understands me.Monica stares straight ahead with a numb expression. Knowle looks down, whishing there was something he could do to help her, but there is nothing. No comforting words. Monica needs someone to understand her. But more importantly, she needs Brad’s understanding most of all.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. HALLWAY OUTSIDE OF BRAD & MONICA’S APARTMENT – 7:45 P.M.
Knowle stands in front of Brad and Monica’s door. He looks at a loss, not sure what he’s doing here. But he knows he has to do something, and before he knows it, he knocks on the door.
A moment later, Brad opens the door.
BRAD
(surprised)
Knowle. Hey.
KNOWLE
(serious)
Is Monica here?
BRAD
No, you just missed her. She
said she was going to the pool
to work off some of the cake she
ate. (beat) Which is odd because
she doesn’t swim. I just figured
it’s a weird Monica thing.Brad smiles. Knowle does not.
KNOWLE
(serious)
I need to talk to you. (beat)
May I come in?Brad stands to the side and allows Knowle in.
BRAD
(shutting door)
Want some cake? Mon’ brought
a ton home for me.
KNOWLE
No thank you. I had a
lot today myself.
BRAD
(remembering)
That’s right.Brad leads Knowle into the living room.
BRAD
Have a seat.He signals to a chair and Knowle sits down.
BRAD
Want something to drink?
KNOWLE
(serious)
No. I just really need to
talk to you, Brad. (beat)
It’s about Monica.Brad senses Knowle’s concern and sits down.
BRAD
(serious)
What about her?Knowle lets out a sigh. He hasn’t even thought of where to begin.
KNOWLE
(after a beat)
Monica collapsed today.Knowle waits a beat for Brad’s reaction. Brad just looks at him with concern.
KNOWLE
(after a small beat)
She didn’t want anyone to tell
you because she collapsed because
she hasn’t been taking her medicine
and felt something so powerful that
it made her weak. (beat) I see this
comes as news to you.Brad leans back slowly in his chair.
BRAD
(worried)
Why didn’t she tell me?
KNOWLE
She thinks you’re going to
be mad at her because she
hasn’t been taking her meds.Knowle waits a beat for everything to register with Brad.
KNOWLE
After I dropped Monica off earlier
this evening, I talked with John and Dana.Brad listens.
KNOWLE
I brought up my concerns about
Monica, and Dana informed me that
Monica had told her that she doesn’t
want to take the medication because
it reminds her of being at the facility
she was held at in New York. (beat) While
there, Monica was kept in isolation, and
had no control over the events in her life.
(beat) She was left alone to deal with
everything that happened to her. (beat)
Dana, who was Monica’s doctor, told me that
Monica suffered from depression and even
tried to kill herself once.Brad nods his head. He knew about that.
KNOWLE
You know about that?
BRAD
Yes, I am aware of that.Knowle nods his head.
KNOWLE
I believe she is still suffering
from depression, Brad. (beat) She
told me how she can’t talk to you
about the loss of your daughter
because she doesn’t think you
understand, or even care.Brad looks up with shock. Of course he cares.
KNOWLE
(re: Brad’s look)
I know you care, Brad. I’m sure you’ve
even told her too. (beat) This is what
she told me. (beat) She also frequently
brought up how much work you’ve been doing lately.Knowle eyes the paperwork on the coffee table, indicating that Brad has not been lying to her about the amount of work he’s been doing.
After a beat, Knowle looks Brad in the eyes with intense seriousness.
KNOWLE
Don’t repeat what happened to you
two in New York, Brad. (beat) Don’t
make your job a priority over her.
You’ll loose her, Brad, and neither
one of you needs that.Brad looks down. This was the last thing he ever expected to hear come out of Knowle Rohrer. But he’s glade he’s heard it. He doesn’t want to loose Monica, and he hadn’t realized his job was taking a priority of him and Monica.
Brad leans forward, his face falling into his hands. He rubs his eyes and looks up at Knowle.
BRAD
I’ve been such an asshole, Knowle.
KNOWLE
No you haven’t.Brad looks at him with doubt.
BRAD
How can you say that after
everything you just told me?
KNOWLE
Because you realize the mistakes.
(beat) She just needs you to understand
her. Listen to her. Tell her that everything
will be okay. Let her know that she can
talk to you, Brad. (beat) She just needs
you to be here for her. That’s all. (beat)
Talk thing out. Be honest with each other.
(beat) But just understand her.Brad nods his head. It’s easier said than done, but he wants to work this out with her. He doesn’t want to drive her away from him, and he doesn’t want to push her away and make her feel that she can’t talk to him.
BRAD
We’re in trouble, aren’t we?
KNOWLE
You’re heading there. Unless
you both start talking to each
other. (beat) Which brings me
to the other reason I came here.Brad listens.
KNOWLE
Monica didn’t go to the pool tonight.
She’s at a support group for psychics.Brad cocks his eyebrow.
BRAD
She is?
KNOWLE
Yeah. When we were in the park
today, this creepy man bumped
into her, saying something about her
being hurt if she continues down the
path she’s chosen and that it was
time for her to discover who she is.
He knew her name and everything.
BRAD
Does she know him?
KNOWLE
No. (beat) But that’s where she is tonight.Brad nods his head.
BRAD
Thank you for telling me. (beat)
And for talking to me about this.Knowle nods his head.
KNOWLE
I don’t want to see you guys fall
apart because of this. (beat) I can
tell you mean a lot to one another.Brad nods his head. He’s still very worried for Monica. Especially now knowing she’s been invited to a psychic support group by a guy, described by Knowle Rohrer, as “creepy”.
INT. HOUSE – 8:11 P.M.
The mysterious man from the park, Samuel DeWitt, still dressed all in black, only now with his trench coat removed sits in a chair. He’s already in conversation.
SAMUEL DeWITT
... and it was in her that I could
see the beginning and the end.He looks over to Monica, who sits across the room. Three other people look over at Monica. The eldest of the three is a black man named Elmer Greentree – the leader of this group who has the most experience. There is also a young blond man, named Mark, who sits next to a young blond woman name Ellen Polaski, better known as Satori (whom Mulder received advice from in 7x22 “The Truth Begins”).
ELMER
(to Monica)
Would you mind introducing
yourself to everyone, Monica?Monica clears her throat.
MONICA
Um, I’m Monica de Velázquez-Reyes.
I... (thinks) I’ve had a Gift ever
since I was a child.
SATORI
What’s your Gift?She smiles warmly at Monica.
SATORI (CON’T)
Everyone here has different Gifts.
(beat) Empathy, psychic...
MONICA
Its difficult to narrow down
exactly. (beat) I can see lost
souls, hear thoughts, know things
about the future that other do not,
feel what someone else is feeling...Satori nods her head.
SATORI
Wow. So you have a little bit
of everything.Monica nods her head.
ELMER
Tell us about the history of your Gift.
MONICA
(nods head)
Well, I had it when I was younger.
(beat) I was once locked in a casket
by my brothers. When I was in there I
had this intense feeling wash over me.
I was being buried alive. I was crying.
(beat) Recently I found out that my
mother was buried alive. I felt her presence
when I was in that casket. She helped to
calm me. That’s the most powerful memory
I have when I was a kid. (beat) As I got
older it went away... sort of. I can
talk to my grandmother by means of telepathy.
That’s been a constant. But my psychic
ability and the ability to feel what
others are feeling went away until recently.Everyone listens to her story.
MONICA (CON’T)
I was taken to this research facility
in which the tests they did on me brought
everything back... full force. (beat) The
doctors gave me medication, but it doesn’t
work. It only reminds me of being at that
place. (beat) No one understand me. They
don’t know what to do with me or something.
SATORI
I get this feeling that you lost
something very close to you.Monica nods her head, fighting back tears.
MONICA
A daughter. (beat) I had an abortion
forced onto me. No one talks to me
about that either. (beat) I mean, I
just wish – not for everyone – but for
the one person closest to me to
understand. (beat) But I think he’s pushing
me away. Making his work, his job
more important than me.
SAMUEL DeWITT
Open up to him, Monica. Help him
understand so he can help you. (beat)
If you don’t you’ll end up getting
hurt. I warned you of this earlier.
(beat) You’ll only grow distant and
you will fall apart. Not just you
and your fiancé, but your
friends and family as well.Monica looks at him with worry.
ELMER
It’s good you came here.Elmer gives Monica a reassuring look. He recognizes Monica’s Gifts and knows she needs help with her abilities. Monica doesn’t only need emotional support from Brad, but she needs help in dealing with her ability and Elmer sees this. He sees that her abilities will become worse as time goes on and the date gets closer to alien colonization.
Monica nods her head. Already she feels better because of coming here. Her fears of dealing with this alone have diminished. But she still hopes that the one person she cares most about will come to understand her.
Off this we...
FADE OUT:
THE END.
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