Screenplay
Screenplay
Screenplay
Written by
Based on
(Orange) 2016.04.09
(Pink) 2016.03.23
(Blue) 2016.02.01
(White) 2015.10.02
MANGER
(considering)
What kind of bonus?
ALICE
Five-percent - that's for the late
fee. Plus another five fr each week
it's overdue - that's th gratuity.
MANGER
By this week?
ALICE
This weekend at the late t, but it
can be paid sooner on in tailment
just like before. Of cou se if it
takes a bit longer that's just more
the bonus that you'll ge . I just
need to know we're in aqreement.
She offers a meager sum. He counts t, dissatisfied; hands it
to his wife, also not convinced. Lo4ig pause between them.
3.
Car sales.
Alice steps from his car as it hurries away. She counts her
money. Her jaw aches; she spits, wipes her mouth.
Alice licks her wounds. She gets up, heads down the street.
MANGER
I want my bonus first.
7.
They take this all in; Mom offers an awkward hug, backs away.* **
MOM
You look thin. Have you been eating
alright?
ALICE
Just fine. I just had a full meal
yesterday.
(looks around)
Everything still looks the same.
DAD
Where are you staying?
ALICE
Not far. I was in the neighborhood
for work and I wanted to stop by.
MOM
Are you staying with someone?
Have you found a man to marry yet?
ALICE
Not yet. No. Almost.
Orange Revision (2016.04.08) 9A.
ALICE
I've had some bad luck lately and a
lot of bad offers, so I've been
working on my own a bit.
MOM
What kind of work?
ALICE
Housekeeping, door-to-door: enough
to get by.
They notice her FUR COAT and prostitute clothes. She realizes
this, ashamed. Their hearts sink. Dad searches for a reason
to get away. ***
DAD
I'll be a bit late. I'll stop by
the market. ***
ALICE
He always forgets the milk. I
remember always reminding you.
Mom's quiet. ***
ALICE
I know I'll find better work on my
own. But if you're still here now,
maybe ... If there's some work
here. I can be out of the way. I
won't have anyone over, not like
before - not even another girl --
At the mention of "girl", Mom seizes up, anxiously scurries
off without saying anything. Alice just watches her go.
MOM
It's alright. It's not your fault.
I've missed you so much
Alice moves in, hugs her, relieved. Mom pulls her closer,
hugs her tighter; very happy to have her back.
DAD
It's not her fault, Alice. She
can't help it. It's not your fault
either, but --
ALICE
DAD
Do you have money?
ALICE
A little. Not much.
VEALE
Forgive our curiosity. We don't
normally entertain guests who sneak
into our rooms and sleep in our
beds. Are these yours?
ALICE
Is this your home?
VEALE
It was my wife's, yes. You look
like you traveled here.
She moves in, gets friendly.
ALICE
Yes, I've been traveling for work.
My name's Alice Mitchell. How do
you do? I heard this was the Veale
residence I was hoping to speak to
them.
VEALE
I'm Veale.
Delighted, she offers a handshake; smiles and charms him.
ALICE
A pleasure to meet you, sir. I read
you're looking for a housemaid.
She hints at the newsletter. He reads through it.
VEALE
You came last night for this?
ALICE
I came to see your beautiful home!
I also read that you needed someone
quickly
VEALE
We just started interviewing. We
haven't had much time.
ALICE
I'm saving you the trouble now.
He has a closer look at the newsletter.
VEALE
You came with someone from our
church?
She inspects the room, notices a cross hanging behind him.
15.
ALICE
I had other work offers but I
wanted to come here first. I, I'm
looking for a new church as well.
He softens up upon hearing this.
VEALE
Our faith is always open to
strangers, especially one so
pretty.
ALICE
Yes. Now, about this housework --
VEALE
You're a God-fearing woman of good
character?
ALICE
That's right. And if we could start
immediately --
VEALE
Good enough to guide my little girl
in the kitchen?
ALICE
In the kitchen and more, yes, sir,
I believe I am ... So when would be
a good time to start?
He sets the newsletter down, turns his attention to her fur
coat. Puts it to his nose. It captivates him.
VEALE
My Mary wore many perfumes but none
so strange and lovely as this.
ALICE
Your wife?
He smiles; puts her fur coat away.
ALICE
Your children?
VEALE
Yes, all very fine and well.
Alice extends a hand to Joseph.
16.
ALICE
You have a very handsome son, just
like his father. Like my own father
too.
JOSEPH
Joseph. Pleasure.
He kisses her hand obviously attracted to her. Repulsed, she
pulls away, but realizes the opportunity; flirts with him.
ALICE
So, if I started now and saved you
time, you'd have more time with
your family. How do you feel about
that, Joseph?
JOSEPH
(to Veale; zealously)
Yes, I think so too!
ALICE
Good! So I'll help with the clean
up from last night; and we'll start
with that.
Veale's pleased.
Annabel.
ALICE
Annabel. I like your name.
ANNABEL
I like your scent.
Annabel turns to the FUR COAT in the open suitcase.
17.
ANNABEL
Was it very cold where you're from?
ALICE
It's warmer here. Was that your
bed? You have a very warm bed.
ANNABEL
We have oatmeal and milk if you're
hungry.
ALICE
Milk would be just fine. Thank you.
Alice lavishes a loving gaze; holds a look over her.
ANNABEL
I will warm up some milk.
She leaves. Alice watches her go.
ALICE
No, I don't think so. No
Lillian looks harder, can't put her finger on it.
LILLIAN
(to Joseph)
Mother's brought some things for
your father outside.
Joseph leaves. She turns back to Alice.
LILLIAN
I will help with the clean up also.
She heads into the adjacent room where Annabel went.
MS. JOHNSON
Can you tell us more about their
faith?
ALICE
Well, our faith was that we
never talk about our faith openly,
nor do we ask others about theirs.
MS. JOHNSON
My daughter and I have a church we
go to downtown.
Alice nods, feigns interest, goes back to her milk.
VEALE
I would've preferred my son had a
wife from my own church. But even
the Lord can',t stop true love. Yes?
Joseph nods, takes Lillian's hand. She mildly reciprocates.
MS. JOHNSON
What about your husband?
ALICE
In my family, we marry when it's
appropriate for us to do so.
MS. JOHNSON
In ours, we marry when the Holy
Spirit calls us to seek Him out.
,ALICE
That's fine.
MS. JOHNSON
My daughter also counsels women from
our church with their marriages and
families. They confess to her first.
Alice turns to Lillian, goes quiet. Ms. Johnson continues;
MS. JOHNSON
We're having an outreach ministry
later downtown, if you'd like to
join us for that?
ALICE
Thank you, ma'am, for your kind
offer. But, according to my faith,
a woman finds the Lord by being at
home first - and through housework -
and then she considers things like
church and marriage later
20.
LILLIAN
In my church, perfume means a
strange and powerful temptation is
nearby and is being used to deceive
others. Was there anything like
that at yours?
ALICE
No, there wasn't.
She's not sure what to say next, so she gets up from the
table, collects the dishes, quickly ends this conversation;
ALICE
There are plenty of dishes to wash
and dinner to get started, so if
you'll excuse me --
LILLIAN
We appreciate your time coming by.
Once everyone is interviewed, we
will decide and get back to you --
ALICE
-- It's just a trial for the day.
Payment for all your kindness.
VEALE
That's a very good idea! Very
thoughtful. Thank you.
Veale's sentiments cascade to everyone at the table. Lillian
and Alice just stare at each other, clearly annoyed.
ALICE
Yes, fine! So ... How would you cut
them?
ANNABEL
Mother cut them small so they would
boil faster.
ALICE
You boil and I'll cut.
They get started. Alice dices the vegetables, very slowly
Veale enters, his church suit in his lap, delighted to see
them cooking together.
VEALE
Urn! For a moment I caught my wife's
aroma again.
ALICE
I'm fixing it her way. Celery and
carrots. With potatoes.
ANNABEL
Is this enough salt?
ALICE
Yes, almost, well, ah --
ANNABEL
It looks enough?
ALICE
It's enough. Yes. Ahuh
Veale holds up his church suit to her, embarrassed.
VEALE
I'm afraid the Lord no longer
agrees with my waistline. And our
last housemaid was allergic to
sewing needles.
23.
ANNABEL
I've always prayed for a sister To
teach me like mother did!
ALICE
Yes, yes ... How was your
mother with the sewing?
ANNABEL
As good as she was with cooking.
I'm still learning that too.
Alice is very happy at this. Annabel moves in, gets closer.
ANNABEL
You smell so nice
Alice's temptation grows. She fights herself, keeps her
distance, grabs the sewing kit, puts it in front of Annabel.
VEALE
A wonderful meal! Thank you.
ALICE
(off Veale's satisfaction)
If I may, there's something I'd like
to speak to you about in private.
VEALE
About our offer for the housework?
ALICE
That's right.
VEALE
My family has a say in this. You
can say to them what you say to me.
Alice collects herself, calms her nerves, glances at Annabel
who's still despondent. Lillian looks ready for something.
ALICE
You have such a beautiful home. I
love housekeeping. I've always
wanted to house keep for a man who
does good work himself.
Alice pushes forward, struggles to stay composed.
ALICE
Your ad called for three days a
week at a modest pay. I'll offer
full-time work; that's seven days
for the same wage with room and
board.
VEALE
You're asking for a room instead?
ALICE
No, no. I'm not asking, I'm giving;
in exchange for any other service
you may need.
Alice lets her offer sink in, urges Annabel to agree. But
Annabel gets anxious, troubled by something all night.
ANNABEL
(to Alice)
Excuse me, may I ask something? --
ALICE
We'll try it a month first on your
terms and if it proves successful --
26.
VEALE
Annabel, will you excuse yourself
and go wash up? --
ANNABEL
(pleading)
She's blessed us with this meal!
Annabel's plea cascades to her father who reconsiders this a
bit more. Alice rides on this, pushes it along.
ALICE
Yes, Sister, I have! Thank you. Now
what we can do is try it for five
days a week to begin with --
LILLIAN
No.
ALICE
You've got someone else who can do
it for less? Cook all this like I
have?
LILLIAN
ALICE
As I said, we'll try it for six
days a week --
LILLIAN
The work offer was for three.
ALICE
I'm offering you more; six days a
week for room and board only. An
honest woman's work for an honest
stay is my offer to you now.
Alice reaches for Veale's hand. Lillian reaches for Annabel's
hand, pulls her back.
LILLIAN
Why do you really want this work
with our family?
Alice brushes Lillian aside; brings Annabel back again.
my
ALICE
For God's forgiveness; through His
work. Amen ... Now of course with
the sewing, the room next to yours
would be better --
LILLIAN
Forgiveness for this confession? Or
is there something more?
ALICE
I don't know.
LILLIAN
CONFESS WHAT YOU DON'T KNOW THEN.
They stare at each other.
ALICE
So what's fair for you, Lillian?
LILLIAN
Saving my family. Saving my Sister
from your sin.
Alice notices Lillian's firm grasp on Annabel's hand, pulling
her closer. She also senses Veale's doubt linger and grow.
ALICE
With this wonderful work with your
family, if there's time I'll try
and have your wonderful Faith also.
LILLIAN
That's not enough
ALICE
That's six days a week, "Sister",
seven for the Service: the Book and
the prayers; everything I give my
Word on - God willing. So does that
seem fair to all of you?
Alice pulls Annabel closer, signals her to agree. Annabel
appeals to her father.
ANNABEL
She's offered to teach me, just
like Mother did.
JOSEPH
Yes. I think it's fair!
Alice is surprised, delighted; reaches out to him.
29.
ALICE
Thank you, Joseph. Now let's pray a
moment together. Think it over.
She puts her hands together in a prayer-like fashion; watches
Veale's reaction. He opens up a bit more, looks her over.
VEALE
You'll do all the housework here;
and you'll become part of our church
to repent properly. Is this right?
She bites her tongue, looks directly at him.
ALICE
That's right, sir. Seven days
at your service, just like your
Mary.
He regards her again, long and hard, then considers his
children, especially Annabel;
VEALE
Alright. We'll try.
ALICE
Good! This will be good for all of
us. Better if we start right away.
She reaches out to thank him then clears the table. Lillian
spitefully reaches over and crosses her. Alice is fuming.
Alice aches all over from scrubbing stains off the tub.
ANNABEL
I can ask.
Annabel hands Alice a bible.
ANNABEL
The reverend wants us to add a
passage to the programs for the
newer members.
ALICE
(preoccupied)
You can choose it.
ANNABEL
Father wants you to do it. Since
you're also new.
Alice looks the church program over again. She reluctantly
takes the bible - no choice.
ALICE
I'll speak first.
33.
RVIMIXTOR
7
ALICE
These people who've come: they'd
appreciate someone as new as they
are to pray with them first.
Annabel hesitates, looks through all her hand-written notes.
ANNABEL
I know Father will want me to
do it. And I spent all last night
ALICE
My thanks to your father and the
Lord and all He's done. Just a
moment then you can speak.
Annabel sneaks a peak at Alice's notes, smiles with warmth.
ALICE
Did you pass by the address I gave
you?
ANNABEL
I tried again but no one was home.
I left the program with your name
on it - and the letter you wrote.
Alice quickly scans the crowd then checks outside.
ALICE
You sure they got it?
ANNABEL
I left it at their door. Maybe
they'll be by later?
ALICE
They should be here, not these
other people. I don't have time for
these people ... We'll wait for
them to come first.
ANNABEL
The Service is about to start.
Alice scrambles for time, still waiting for someone to arrive.
She turns back to the crowd, unsure what to do.
Annabel recalls something.
34.
ANNABEL
One other thing: a woman asked to
speak with you the other day.
ALICE
What woman?
ANNABEL
She says her name's Myra.
ALICE
Who?
ANNABEL
Myra Ward. I passed her home on the
way and she saw your name on the
program. She says she was your closest
friend. I told her you were here.
Alice becomes paranoid, suspicious.
ALICE
Is she here?
ANNABEL
She wants you to arrange a time to
see her and her husband at their
church.
Alice winces at the word "husband"; finishes her writing.
ALICE
One church is enough. I don't have
time for this woman either. You did
a wonderful job, Annabel. Thank you.
Time's up. Alice alters her strategy.
ALICE
Keep the door open a bit for anyone
coining later.
ALICE
Oh, God! ... What's that for?
JOSEPH
It's testing for sexual or venereal
diseases. Anything irregular.
ALICE
Sexual diseases? ... How irregular?
JOSEPH
We'll do your regular checkup after
but we need a blood sample first.
Joseph brings the syringe closer. She backs away.
VEALE
This is for your good and ours.
Healing is central to our faith.
ALICE
Yes! But, my new faith teaches that
a woman never allow her body to men
not her husband. Even if they are
so decent and faithful --
VEALE
This will be important for your
husband as well when you marry.
She reluctantly extends her arm. He starts the blood draw.
HENNING
Ten milliliters. Not too quickly.
Henning collects the blood work as Veale comforts her.
VEALE
The Lord's blessed us with you
here.
(to Joseph) .
We have a few others to finish
before everyone gathers. Can you
finish on your own?
JOSEPH
Yes, sir, I think so.
They leave. Joseph pours her another cup of tonic, bandages
her arm, then puts a stethoscope to her chest. She's too
distracted from the tonic's effects to notice.
ALICE
tJghhhgh! That stuff's not normal.
37.
JOSEPH
It's Father's brand of tonic that
improves blood circulation. It was
his work as St. Joseph's missionary
doctor before his injury ... I'll
have this over with quickly.
ALICE
You're doing a nice job. Your
father ought to be proud.
He moves in closer, slips the stethoscope over her breasts.
JOSEPH
You smell very nice today ... Did
you wear that scent for the work
you did before you came here?
ALICE
It's my natural scent.
She notices him caressing her breasts with the stethoscope.
JOSEPH
What did you charge for it?
ALICE
Depends.
JOSEPH
What did it depend on?
ALICE
What I offered - what their wives
didn't offer at home.
He stares at her chest, entranced, circles the same spot. She
sees this, smiles it off, gives him the benefit of the doubt.
ALICE
Something wrong with them?
JOSEPH
No, no. Yours are a very good and
healthy pair. God bless them.
ALICE
Better than your wife's?
JOSEPH
Yes! -- No, no. They are both very
equal. Very well ... Just a moment
longer ... It'd help better if
you'd remove your blouse --
She HOLDS a deranged look on him - then lunges forward,
wrestles him to the ground.
ALICE
Aren't you the faithful doctor and
husband? Splash your tonic in your
wife's mouth; see how she likes it!
JOSEPH
Wait, let us - let us discuss this.
She doesn't give him an inch; holds him down.
ALICE
Don't even try it, little man --
She restrains herself, looks deep into him: the same angst
she had for her clients. A suspicion stirs in her.
ALICE
I want you to tell me something,
Joseph. About your wife
ALICE
His wife's never around him much.
Not even in the same bed.
ANNABEL
Lillian says her faith's better if
she had her own bed again, now tha
they've been married a while.
ALICE
That's not normal for a husband
wife
ANNABEL
She attends our Service sometimes
for his sake, and even invites me
stay over when her mother's away.
Alice pauses a moment hearing this.
ALICE
What about her father?
ANNABEL
He's with a different woman
now. My brother wouldn't do that to
her though.
ALICE
You think you'll marry?
Annabel weakly smiles, looks away, continues washing.
ALICE
I'm asking you, Annabel.
ANNABEL
Mother married about my age, but
she never taught about dating or
finding a husband. And Father's
very protective.
Alice is curious, looks her over.
ANNABEL
I thought, maybe, from your work
If you could tell me more about
men? What a married man would want?
Annabel appears genuinely confused, curious.
ALICE
What are you asking?
40.
ANNABEL
There was a boy I knew before you
came here, from my school. He was
my first kiss. But I didn't know
What else I should've done?
ALICE
So, what are you asking?
Annabel's unsure how to answer.
ALICE
Maybe he wasn't the right boy?
ANNABEL
Maybe the Lord's preparing someone
better for me?
Alice nods some sort of understanding. But something
stirs in her mind - she just watches Annabel
VEALE
Ms. Johnson will be starting her
desserts soon. She could use your
help. Alice can finish on her own --
ALICE
No, no, please. Let me -- You need
more practice in your own kitchen
first - to do the practicing.
She takes the list from him, reads it over - it's simple.
VEALE
It's just pastry cooking. It
shouldn't take more than an hour --
ALICE
Half-an-hour if I do it. You finish
up here, Annabel. Just like I
taught you.
She turns away from him, hurries away before he can ask for
more. He takes out another list of unfinished chores.
VEALE
The tables need to be cleaned before
we set out refreshments. We'll need
seating for about sixty --
She goes back to him with an evasive smile, grabs the list
from him then rushes off quickly before he can finish.
Veale persists as she trails off.
VEALE
The reverend's looking forward to
your cooking too. His wife enjoyed
your reading earlier. They have a
bible study I promised you'd help
with tomorrow --
She's steaming - the last straw - hurries away faster.
LILLIAN
Take them and pray: forgive my
sickness. For I have sinned. And I
was unfaithful. And I have betrayed
-- Do not turn away! Look and say,
I Have Betrayed My Wife.
JAMESON
I'VE BETRAYED MY WIFE. I'VE
BETRAYED THE WIFE I LOVE.
She forces his hands to prayer with a pantomime frenzy.
LILLIAN
DO YOU TAKE THIS WOMAN TILL DEATH
DO YOU PART? Yes you do! Because
this is what's correct. This man
and woman and union!
She draws him closer then leads him to his wife.
LILLIAN
There she is. Go to her. It's okay.
He delivers the pillow like a new-born into his wife's arms.
LILLIAN
And he is home again!
ALL
HALLELUJAH. IT IS A MIRACLE. BLESS
THIS MAN, LORD. BLESS THIS FAMILY.
The crowd gathers around and hug him ... Except Alice, who's
just holding a SUGAR JAR, watching this show.
Lillian moves in on Jameson's wife, holds her face, then rests
her head on the pillow in the wife's lap; blesses her stomach.
ALICE
Lillian, change of plans. Banquet's
at five.
LILLIAN
Yes, I've heard.
ALICE
For a moment I thought I had the
wrong church.
LILLIAN
They're a few from our church
downtown - women who I counsel. We
come together here sometimes.
Alice inspects this mother/daughter couple, unsure what to
think or say. She hands over the satchel and jar to Ms.
Johnson. Lillian intercepts them.
LILLIAN
See the others off then wait in the
kitchen. I'll be there in a moment.
Lillian stares her down. Ms. Johnson leaves. Alice watches
her go, stunned to see this.
ALICE
Annabel's having trouble cooking
without me so if you'll help here
instead, I'll be on my way --
LILLIAN
She tells me you've been reaching
out to your family lately. And that
your mother's become ill.
ALICE
LILLIAN
I've seen these troubles spread to
many families including mine. Don't
you think if you were saved that
all this could have been prevented?
ALICE
Yes it could have been. Those men
came to me and wouldn't have done it
if their wives had offered better --
LILLIAN
Yes, it is a shame Mother's faith
couldn't keep Father with us --
ALICE
Shouldn't speak about your mother
that way --
LILL IAN
-- And awful to think that your own
mother must be suffering for what
you've done --
The last straw. Alice is ready to blow, holds herself back.
ALICE
-- A wife absent from her husband's
bed leads him astray also --
LILLIAN
Joseph is a fine husband with a
fine bed.
ALICE
(disregards her)
-- Then there won't be any marriage
or mother or father --
LILLIAN
You've been spending a lot of time
with Annabel lately. Do you think
this is wise?
ALICE
-- Then there won't be a "Sister";
or any family anywhere.
Lillian goes quiet. They just stand there a moment.
ALICE
That's five o'clock in the yard. If
you'd like to come early and help,
that should be fine. Thank you.
46.
Alice leaves.
ALICE
The banquet's starting in a moment.
But we also have a family dinner
afterwards
Alice nods to Dad, cascades to Mom. Mom's anxious; turns to
each person, then Alice, still unsure of the situation.
MOM
We heard about your new church
Have they been helping you with it?
ALICE
I haven't needed to tell anyone.
They're a very good family here.
I've been doing their housework.
And that's their church, see? It's
all helped.
Mom's relieved; so is Dad.
ALICE
It's just between us, alright? I'll
take care of this --
Alice helps Mom with her pills. They stare at each other,
with hope on both sides.
MOM
Is it really getting better now and
really you're going to be alright?
Alice is unsure, doesn't answer, just hugs and reassures her.
MOM
You'll have your own family and
children someday. We just want you
to be healthy and happy again.
That's all we've wanted.
Mom gets closer, hugs her.
Blue Revision (2016.03.06) 48.
INNABEL
They're outside, having a word with
everyone.
Annabel inspects Alice's empty wine glass.
ANNABEL
How much did you have to drink?
ALICE
Help me up.
Annabel reaches out; Alice affectionately pulls her down to a
seated position on the bed, pulls her close, nearly puts her
head in her lap. Annabel thinks nothing of it.
ANNABEL
Are you feeling alright?
Alice rests in Annabel's lap, deeply inhales her scent.
ALICE
Just a bit sick. I'm just so sick
always feeling this way
ANNABEL
I'll get some water.
Annabel tries to leave but Alice won't let go and pulls her
closer. Annabel gently pries her off, then leaves.
LILLIAN
May I have a word, Alice?
Alice just drinks; doesn't make eye-contact or say anything.
LILLIAN
I'm glad to see you have your
parents again. They look like a
wonderful mother and father.
ALICE
LILLIAN
I think, sometimes, if you were
more faithful and confessed to the
Lord properly, they would've never
been lost to you to begin with.
ALICE
LILLIAN
If there's something you'd like to
confess now, He is listening.
ALICE
LILLIAN
I hear that you've never even been
engaged to marry. When do you think
that will happen?
Alice finishes the water, turns to the house, sees Mom and
Dad inside happily mingling. Alice smiles, picks herself up.
ALICE
You're a worthless wife, Lillian.
And your mother deserves better
than anything you've given her.
I'll have my parents back again
soon. So I want you to stay away
from me. Go back to your church -
whatever church you belong to - and
stay the hell away from my family.
Alice heads in. Lillian confirms her suspicions.
ALICE
Just because there's nothing
doesn't mean there's something --
LILLIAN
(to Veale)
And being separated from your home
and family because of it, your
prostitution would have been a
means for you.
VEALE
Is this true?
Disbelief gives way to suspicion. Mom sinks away, speechless.
Alice quickly takes hold and pacifies her.
LILLIAN
(reaches for Mom, Dad)
Yes! It is a shame more wasn't done
sooner. I am so sorry for you both.
Lillian offers a prayer. Humiliated, Mom loses it, groans in
pain. Alice has a hard time holding her.
MOM
Let me go. I want to go
ALICE
It's alright. It's alright.
Everything will be fine --
Dad helps restrain Mom but it's too late. She becomes manic,
takes Alice to the ground with her. They inadvertently bump
the altar, knocks over candles, family photos. It's a mess.
MOM
NO. NO. NO. NO. NO.
Dad and Henning drag her out. Alice remains, picks herself
up, nothing to say to this disaster she's created.
Alice looks to Lillian, who's satisfied, then looks away,
avoids eye-contact. All eyes on her, shocked.
Dad and Henning help Mom into Dad's truck. Alice watches from
a distance, helpless.
HENNING
What about mental disorders?
ALICE
I don't know ... I need a drink.
HENNING
You shouldn't drink when you're
sick.
ALICE
Is that what I am?
HENNING
If all this about you is true.
She looks to him, catches on to the meaning, turns away.
55.
ALICE
You're a doctor. You can treat me.
I've seen you treat others.
HENNING
This is different.
Alice looks around the room.
ALICE
You're not living with anyone here.
And there are a few extra rooms
Why don't you treat me here?
He's not sure how to respond. Alice warms up to him.
ALICE
There are dishes in the sink and
floors to clean ... I can take care
of these things for you.
HENNING
I don't need a housemaid. And I
have other patients to look in on --
ALICE
I'll help with your work then and
keep you organized. I'm good with a
phone and know some typing. I hear
you're the best doctor. Your
patients should come to you, like I
am. You can have your practice here.
HENNING
These patients can't get out of
bed. They need me to go to them. I
haven't the time.
She moves in, tries something else with him.
ALICE
I came because I needed your help.
HENNING
I'd like to help, but --
ALICE
My mother's been sick. Her doctors
say she needs me better so she can
be better ... There's no other
doctor to help with this.
He sees her desperation. Ponders something but isn't hopeful.
56.
HENNING
Our church has a place that's
vacant; a sick home we put up as a
hospice for soldiers after the war.
But they won't be comfortable with
you the way you are.
ALICE
We'll go to them together. You can
tell them about treating me --
HENNING
My faith's in medicine first. But
Dr. Veale's my partner; and his
faith --
ALICE
Your faith's more forgiving. You
can be more reasonable.
He softens up, weighs his options.
HENNING
Let me ask about your condition. If
it's hormonal. Something that can
be done. Just to clarify.
She's relieved. He considers one last thing.
HENNING
You'd need permission regardless.
Her face changes, tenses up. She looks over and sees a bible
amongst other medical books, pulls it to her, flips through
its pages a bit.
ALICE
I know you've struggled with your
injury, like I've struggled with
mine. Without my family; or your
Mary.
She takes a breath, gauges his reaction, continues;
ALICE
I know if the Lord could bring her
back for your sake - and your
health - you'd also pray He'd
return my family for mine.
Veale's expression softens. He looks at the mess around him,
then to his legs, recalls his "injury".
VEALE
If you'll continue earnestly with
our faith, you have my blessing.
They look each other over with some understanding.
ALICE
About?
ANNABEL
You?
Alice searches for the right words.
ALICE
Don't you know?
ANNABEL
If you know better, I'd like to
hear it from you.
Alice goes quiet. It's very awkward between them:
ANNABEL
Are you that way around me?
ALICE
ALICE
You're the Lord's Confessor: so
what about my mother's confession?
Isn't there a blessing to make her
better again?
LILLIAN
Don't you dare touch me
Alice drags her to the tub and pushes her face-down into it.
Lillian breaks free, crawls away. They wrestle.
LILLIAN
You should've confessed and been on
your way. I warned you away from my
family
Alice drags her back, thrusts her face-down into the mud.
ALICE
I'll smite you down for this,
Lillian. You're as dirty as I am.
Elle charges forward to help Lillian pry Alice off.
Alice FIRMLY HOLDS; then gets off, grabs the hamper, heads
back to the house. Lillian frantically cleans herself off.
Alice passes Annabel; their eyes meet. Alice tries to sway
her but Annabel shies away, goes to help Lillian.
ALICE
Fold it down the middle first. And
the sleeves. Tighter. That's it.
JOSEPH
(re: medicine tray)
That's an iron supplement. You
should take that after a meal.
ALICE
Stay focused.
JOSEPH
Alice, this is silly --
ALICE
Don't talk. Don't smile.
JOSEPH
I need to finish and be going --
ALICE
You need to keep quiet and keep
folding ... Do it like you mean it.
DO IT LIKE I'M YOUR WIFE.
He's petrified; realizes the predicament he's in, again.
ALICE
Get your things and ready the car.
JOSEPH
Alice --
ALICE
You want this quiet? Then you keep
quiet and come with me.
JACOB
Your father sent me here for some
things.
ALICE
Is my mother here? Where is she?
JACOB
She's resting; inside.
Alice is quiet; looks him over.
JACOB
Won't you come in?
JOSEPH
She said she wanted to thank you
for coming.
Her face changes a bit; goes back to the documents.
JOSEPH
That's the dossier from the blood
work we did. Everything looks fine.
No sexually transmitted diseases.
ALICE
What're these here?
JOSEPH
That's the other blood from your
physical. Your hemoglobin level's a
bit low - about ten. That's low
even for pregnant women.
Alice shows relief but also concern.
ALICE
Can my inversion be gotten?
JOSEPH
How do you mean?
ALICE
A sexual disease: something in my
blood or body ... If it's gotten
the same way, can it be treated?
JOSEPH
If it's a symptom of something,
maybe. It might be hemolytic.
She studies the document closer.
JOSEPH
We can do another blood work if we
had a better idea what we were
looking for. If there were another
woman like you who was already
cured - and ask their doctor?
A thought comes to her. She recalls something important.
ALICE
Who'd he say he was?
JOSEPH
He's about your age. Your mother
says he's single; not married. A
good man, doing good work
You really think my father and Dr.
Henning can help you with this?
She packs everything up. They head out.
FRED
What about it?
ALICE
I'll speak to her about that.
What's her address?
They look her over.
FRED
She ain't interested in girls
anymore.
ALICE
Neither am I. So where is she?
FRED
We told you she ain't interested.
ALICE
Does she have a telephone?
FRED
Maybe.
ALICE
You've got a telephone here
They consider this, wanting to get rid of her.
FRED
We'll let her know if she ever
comes by.
ALICE
And when will that be? I'll come by
myself.
FRED
Not sure.
Alice steps forward; threatening.
ALICE
I'll speak with your neighbors
about her then, see if they know.
They're anxious; look to each other, to Mr. Ward.
FRED
She comes by every week or so with
her husband. You can leave your
number.
AM
ALICE
Tell her I'd like to speak with him
as well. Tell her it's for the
Lord's work - nothing else.
She writes a phone number on a flier, hands it to him.
ALICE
God bless you, young man. And your
family.
She heads back, sneaking peeks through windows and fences.
HENNING
It's a blood tonic made from burdock
extractives and liquorice. We
prescribe it to anemic patients to
increase the blood count and cleanse
the kidneys. There's sarsaparilla
added to help with the taste.
It's very strong. She forces it down, nearly spits it out.
ALICE
How much longer does this take?
HENNING
It'll take time to get your
bleeding regular again. Sexual
deviation affects those areas
first. We should start there.
ALICE
You said that before and I haven't
felt any different since we
started.
She's frustrated, impatient, looks around for answers.
ALICE
So, what else? What's next?
HENNING
Hold still a moment.
He readies the sphygmomanometer, checks her blood pressure.
ALICE
What about hypnosis? Psychotherapy?
He looks to the book in her lap, amused.
HENNING
Well, that's all just laying about
and speculation. Freud had his
successes but rejected the idea.
Hope fades from her. He comforts her, directs her to the
BIBLE, the other book beside her.
Her spirits lift reading its pages; but the tonic's effects
get to her.
ALICE
It'll go faster if I drank more.
HENNING
One a day's enough. Relax your aria.
70.
ALICE
Come inside.
She pulls back and sees something in the girl's eyes.
ANNABEL
Alice: I need to ask something
ALICE
I used to dream about marriage and
chase after her. Now it makes me
sick to still want these things.
I've had nothing but disappointment
from it since then. I've buried my
anger deep inside and held my
breath completely. All these years
putting on this fraud; smiling to
these people and working them over
just to scrape by
She has another drink. Annabel contemplates this.
ANNABEL
What will you do about your mother?
ALICE
Maybe she'd get better if a doctor
could fix me somehow ... Could a
doctor do that?
She peers into the bottle with hope, like an alcoholic.
ANNABEL
If there was another girl like her
that came by ..?You'd still rather
be home with your family?
ALICE
I thought I'd be better off doing
things my own way, but now I'd be
happier to be home ... And without
these feelings
She takes a gulp, offers a drink. Annabel reluctantly takes a
sip, coughs. They burst into laughter; let it all out.
AL ICE
My uterus is so dried and broken
up. How's a child going to grow
inside it?
Alice can barely open her eyes; takes a breath.
ALICE
My mother couldn't either. She
must've wanted me as a boy, seeing
how bad a girl I was in the kitchen
Could you make one? Your mother
made Joseph well enough.
Alice turns her way, holds her face, wants to try something
but hesitates. After a moment, Annabel pulls her closer,
kisses her, trembles with excitement, unbuttons her blouse.
ALICE
Help me up.
Joseph does another blood draw from Alice's arms, careful not
to let his eyes wander.
Annabel serves dinner. They enjoy her meal, but she's unable
to eat, guilt-ridden over what she's done.
Veale chokes a bit. She panics, goes to him with water. He
reaches for her: his sweet little girl.
She goes to Joseph, offers seconds, then takes her seat,
smiles at them both. The guilt deepens into a dread.
ALICE
What's happened? Where's her
medicine?
DAD
Doctor Veale called; about you --
She scrambles for an explanation.
ALICE
Did he tell you about that other
girl - that she started all of it?
DAD
Alice: she's tried. She can't
continue being sick like this
again.
He shakes his head, sees her desperation. He gets into his
truck and drives off. She just stands there a while.
LILLIAN
Why was she able to get to Annabel *
like this? Do You Know Why? BECAUSE *
IT WAS YOU WHO LET HER DO IT.
Lillian gets right in his face, grabs him by the wrists, *
intimidates him. *
JOSEPH
Dear, please, don't do this -- *
LILLIAN *
YES YOU DID, JOSEPH -- YES. You let
that dirty woman have her way with
us - with your little sister - and
you failed your family when they
needed you most. A gullible idiot
brother and husband
125 EXT. MIDTOWN, RESIDENTIAL STREET - NIGHT 125
Alice is weary, exhausted. She takes a moment then heads down
the street towards a familiar dimly lit home.
MYRA
She told me you've been living with
her in her home.
Alice quickly articulates something.
:
ALICE
I'm a housemaid helping her family.
Her father's a doctor and my mother's
been ill. So, I'm helping
MYRA
I know about your mother ... Is it
true then? That your inversion is
still with you?
Alice struggles along her back, still numb from the ringing.
ALICE
The doctor says it's something with
our bleeding and can be fixed; just
like you've done for your husband --
MYRA
The Lord has sent you here for this
ALICE
Yes. Now let me finish --
Her stomach growls; she has a hard time focusing. Myra offers
a bread roll; then reaches down, crosses her like Lillian did.
MYRA
I was hoping to reach out to you
first and keep this quiet between
us, before these troubles could
reach your family like this - and
continue troubling mine.
Myra holds out Alice's church flier. Alice turns to the
family with gratitude. They're very annoyed.
ALICE
I'd like your help now.
MYRA
I'd like you to try your faith at
my church and be baptized into our
Service.
Alice looks her over, baffled.
ALICE
But that's not it -- Was it a
treatment ...? What did your doctor
do? What can I do?
MYRA
Confess. And save yourself from this
other sin you were about to commit.
ALICE
Save myself - from what else? My
menstruating?
Myra holds out a handful of SLEEPING PILLS that were
scattered over the floor, bottles them.
MYRA
It was when my mother had succumbed
to leukemia and passed on that I
confessed for the first time and
was born again.
ALICE
I'm very sorry to hear that, but --
MYRA
Confess to God, before it's too
late. This is your only way: give
your body to God.
Myra extends a hand.
MYRA
You can come to our home and clean
up first.
Alice notices another MAN nearby, holding a LITTLE BOY. He
walks to Myra - her husband and son.
LILLIAN
"For I am the Sun, says the Lord,
and the light of the world that no
darkness shall overcome. Flee from
sexual immorality as every other
sin is committed outside the body
but the sexually immoral sins
against it." And the Flesh is weak.
And it is a sin. For us to obey God
is to disobey ourselves and to Deny
Temptation.
Lillian works up the crowd, directs everyone's attention to
Alice. Alice relents, remains seated; stunned to see this.
MYRA
It's alright. Go on.
LILLIAN
Thank you for bringing her to us.
Welcome, Sister Alice.
Alice receives a welcome. Lillian offers her the pillow to
hold and pray to.
ALICE
Is this alright?
LILLIAN
Alice: you've come forward for a
new start but you've also fallen
backward on old vices. You've
betrayed your faith - and your
family - who took you in when no
one else would. You've betrayed
their faith for your own pleasure
and your own sin.
ALICE
Yes I have.
LILLIAN
So confess now. Hands together and
confess: I have betrayed my family.
A deep feeling stirs in Alice. The crowd urges her to say it.
ALICE
I've betrayed my family.
LILLIAN
I have sickened my mother, and I
have betrayed my family.
:
ALICE
I've betrayed my family
LILLIAN
Forgive me, Father - I have
betrayed my family!
ALICE
I've betrayed my family.
Lillian stirs the crowd into a fervor; holds Alice from behind
and makes her pray harder.
LILLIAN
I relinquish my flesh.
ALICE
I relinquish my flesh.
LILLIAN
I deny Temptation.
ALICE
I deny Temptation.
LILLIAN
The Lord is the light and He will
save me.
ALICE
The Lord's the light and He'll save
Let go of me --
LILLIAN
I am weak and I am sick.
ALICE
That's enough --
LILLIAN
I am sick. Say it!
ALICE
I'm weak and I'm sick --
Lillian breaks off, circles Alice like a vulture.
LILLIAN
I have sinned against my body,
Lord, and I have sinned against
you. I have sinned in pleasure
because my flesh is weak and I am
sick. So say it again.
ALICE
(grumbling; to the ground)
I'm sick and I've sinned.
LILLIAN
Say it to Him .
ALICE
(shouting; to the sky)
I'm sick and I've sinned, Lord.
Lillian holds her from behind again; closer, harder.
LILLIAN
I Have Sickened My Mother And I
Deny Temptation.
Alice is boiling - fights off Lillian's hold. She clenches
her fists, bites her tongue.
LILLIAN
Confess it.
ALICE
I deny Temptation. Now let me go --
LILLIAN
Confess it again, everything -
EVERYTHING TO HIM NOW.
ALICE
I'VE SICKENED MY MOTHER AND I DENY
TEMPTATION.
LILLIAN
FILTHY SIN. GET IT OFF. OFF THIS
WOMAN --
Lillian squeezes her hard from behind, lifts her from her
seat and wrings her body out like dirty wet laundry.
LILLIAN
DIRTY SIN. DIRTY SICKNESS. DIRTY
FILTHY SICK SIN.
Alice breaks free, choking for breath. Myra helps her up and
embraces her, helps her breathe again.
MYR½.
May I help somehow? ... I'll go
back with you to your family and
we'll put this behind us
Still out of it, Alice concedes with a nod. The crowd gathers
around: fathers, mothers, children. Their warmth touches her.
ALL
Amen. Hallelujah. Praise the Lord.
Alice and Lillian stare at each other, both out of breath;
exhausted. Alice backs down and moves off.
She's greeted by Jameson who gives way to hugging her and
introduces her to his wife, who seems better now.
LILLIAN
Thank you all for your faith. Sister
Alice will join us from now on, and
return home to her family again once
she is healed completely
Something changes in Alice. She reaches out to each person.
ALICE
When did she get back?
JACOB
Just earlier. She'll have to be in
bed a while. I'm heading to the
pharmacy now.
Reading it over, her face fills with worry.
ALICE
Is my father alright?
JACOB
He's been worried. But now that
she's better, he's better. There's
new construction on some bungalow
homes downtown. It should be good
work for us.
ALICE
He should have more time at home.
JACOB
It's better for him to work to get
his mind off things.
ALICE
Rebuilding our family's more
important. You're his best worker
and you're like a son to him so I
want you to tell him that.
She returns the prescription list.
ALICE
I want to thank you for coming here
these past weeks and telling me all
this. You've done a good job.
JACOB
You're welcome. My pleasure
He smiles at her. She sees this, makes an offer.
ALICE
I'll make some dinner tonight for
us. For all your hard work. You're
off at five?
JACOB
Six today.
ALICE
Come by at seven.
JACOB
(excited)
Yes! Thank you.
MYRA
She made her hair special just for
tonight.
JACOB
Yes, I like your hair too. Very
nice
MYRA
He's a very nice-looking man. You
both look very nice together.
Alice has nothing to say, keeps an eye on Myra who initiates
a kiss with her husband.
They get close while Alice and Jacob remain stiff and awkward.
Alice tries to move closer to him but can't.
Myra and her husband get closer, whisper to each other. Annoyed,
Alice repeatedly taps her wine glass with her fork.
ALICE
I can see your lips moving.
Myra and her husband stop, turn back to Alice and Jacob, as
if waiting for something to happen between them.
Alice turns to Jacob, who's baffled by her behavior. She
takes a deep breath, reaches over, kisses his mouth: her
first real kiss with a man.
Myra and her husband watch this. Alice finishes, trying to
feel something, but it's very awkward for her.
Alice gets up; she and Mom look each other over. Dad pushes
Mom closer - they've arranged all this.
Alice goes to her; holds her tightly.
ALICE
Thank God ... Thank God for this.
Alice reaches for Dad, hugs him. Then directs Mom to Myra.
ALICE
Do you remember Myra? That's her
husband and her little boy. See?
I've been staying with her church.
They're helping me get better, just
like her.
She pulls a seat beside Mom, takes Jacob by the hand, signals
him to go along with her. Mom sees this, curious.
ALICE
I've been getting better with him
too. Better than I've ever been.
We've been going out a while.
Alice kisses Jacob - flickers with unease - brushes it off.
ALICE
We're going to take care of all of
this for good this time. Because I
need your faith for this now. I
need your help
Mom lights up with hope seeing Alice and Jacob holding hands.
She reaches for Alice's hands, pulls her closer.
LILLIAN
Hello, Alice. Has everything been
alright with everything?
ALICE
Fine.
Lillian pauses a moment; looks her over.
LILLIAN
I'm glad to hear that.
ALICE
Are things fine for you?
LILLIAN
Yes. I've been summoned to the
Goodwives Charity Hospital in
Whitehaven for missionary work on
behalf of our church. The Lord is
reaching out to the world and has
asked that I join Him ... I'm going
to bring Annabel with me.
ALICE
LILLIAN
She's been having trouble at home
lately and wanders away sometimes,
so her father also thinks this is
best ... Has she spoken to you in-
person about this?
Alice is perplexed, has no idea.
ALICE
No, she hasn't.
LILLIAN
I know it wouldn't be good for
either of you to see each other
again.
Alice just stares at her, absorbs the meaning. Lillian
searches Alice's face; then smiles it off.
LILLIAN
It's good to see that you've been
doing better.
ALICE
Thank you for all your help. Good
luck to you both.
Orange Revision (2016.04.08) 93.
LILLIAN
And to you. Jacob looks like a good
man. I'm sure he'll make a good
husband someday.
Alice has nothing left to say.
LILLIAN
God bless you, Sister
ALICE
Stay clear of any temptation along
the way, Lillian. The Lord watches
us even behind closed doors.
LILLIAN
And bless your family.
Lillian heads back. Alice watches her go.
ALICE
Come in. Make yourselves at home.
ANNABEL
Can we have a minute?
Both men leave. Alice and Annabel look each other over.
ANNABEL
It's good to see you again ... Is
it also good to see me?
ALICE
I heard you've been skipping school
and church lately. Where have you
been?
ANNABEL
Can we talk somewhere else? I'd
like this to be secret.
ALICE
There's no secret. The Lord's
everywhere. He hears everything. So
why don't you just tell me.
Annabel searches for the right words.
ANNABEL
This has been very difficult for
me. But I know you'll understand
and forgive what I've done.
ALICE
ANNABEL
I've learned a lot about myself
from you. I've learned to be honest
with who I've always been. And I
know now that I have to be honest
with the Lord before I can be
faithful to Him.
ALICE
So what about him over there?
ANNABEL
Robert is a sweet man, sweet like
Jacob. But if I could have a
marriage, I'd rather go away with
you and have you as a spouse than
as a Sister --
ALICE
You need a husband for that.
ANNABEL
You've taught me to be a good wife.
ALICE
I didn't teach you this ... So, so
what are you here for?
ANNABEL
I came for your blessing.
ALICE
You came for a feeling between your
legs.
ANNABEL
No, you don't understand. Please
listen --
ALICE
This is so stupid what you're doing.
ANNABEL
My family will forgive me.
ALICE
You'll have no family after this.
Alice's face changes - she's fighting herself.
ALICE
You'll just be a whore living in a
hovel.
ANNABEL
It won't be like that --
ALICE
Just a whore living on her knees in
a hovel ... A whore with no family
and a hovel for a home.
ANNABEL
You'll forgive me and be my
sweetheart again.
Annabel moves in, discreetly hands over an address.
ANNABEL
I know if my Faith stops me this
time, I'll have the Lord's own
strength to push it down.
as
Come in.
INSIDE. Cramped and desolate like Manger's home. Annabel's
the only bright spot. Alice looks around, sees the bedroom.
ANNABEL
Thank you for coming.
ALICE
It's just one bed for both of you?
ANNABEL
Yes
Overjoyed, Annabel hugs and kisses her. Alice is reluctant,
still taking this all in.
Dad and Jacob sit along the porch bench. Alice comes out,
serves them lemonade. She kisses him, then Jacob. They're ***
happy to have her home. She recalls: ***
FAMILIAR VOICE
Allow me, Brother. Sister Alice.
You have a visitor.
Lillian approaches with her bible, fliers, BAKER'S BOX.
LILLIAN
We'll just be a moment.
JACOB **
Your father took your mother to the **
doctor for a checkup. I'm going to **
get ready for work ... **
LILLIAN
Alice, it's your Sister. Wake up
and thank the Lord for another
beautiful day! I've made you
breakfast.
Alice sobers up, sees who it is. Lillian hands her the milk
and medicine; and offers muffins. Alice declines.
LILLIAN
What a very lovely home you have. A
lovely family and husband-to-be!
Alice sets the suitcase aside, but keeps it close. Lillian
takes a seat nearby. Alice gulps much of the milk down.
LILLIAN
"First-comes-love-then-comes -
marriage-then-comes-a-baby-in-your
baby-less-carriage ..."
LILLIAN
Sister Alice: my prodigal Sister,
home again. After so many years! So
many challenges the Lord besets
upon us
ALICE
Are you being challenged, Lillian?
LILLIAN
Not me, no; but there's been some
trouble in our family lately.
Annabel and I were to go away
together for missionary work but
she's run off. Have you heard this?
ALICE
LILLIAN
There is a man she's been with
recently who seems to be a terrible
influence on her. But ... She
thinks she's in love! She thinks so
many strange things, doesn't she?
Mention of Annabel makes Lillian uneasy. She sweats a bit,
eats a muffin, wipes her mouth. Alice sees this.
LILLIAN
I heard she came to see you again.
ALICE
Just a few times.
LILLIAN
Have you spoken with her lately?
Where has she gone?
ALICE
She's gone her own way.
LILLIAN
Away with this man? With another
man? ... Another woman?
ALICE
LILLIAN
Alice; now that I know this about
her, I must know. You must tell me.
Alice goes quiet, ignores her, turns back to her suitcase.
102.
LILLIAN
Sister: God is calling to us. He is
asking that we guide His child back
to Him --
(off Alice's silence)
-- He is calling for you to bring
her back to me - back to her home
and family where she belongs.
ALICE
I can bring you to her immediately.
LILLIAN
(startled)
You could?
ALICE
That's best for everyone.
LILLIAN
Yes ... Yes, it is! Thank you.
ALICE
But I want you to do something for
me first.
LILLIAN
Alright.
ALICE
I'd like you to ask for forgiveness.
LILLIAN
For what?
ALICE
I'd like you to confess and do
what's best for your family.
LILLIAN
I don't know what you mean?
ALICE
Confess what you don't know then.
Lillian takes a moment, ponders this, baffled.
ALICE
Confess that you lust.
Lillian's stunned; remains quiet.
ALICE
Confess that you covet.
103.
LILLIAN
Alice, I really don't --
AL ICE
About Annabel.
LILLIAN
This is ridiculous.
Lillian slowly absorbs the meaning, uncomfortably laughs it
off. She darts her eyes, finishes the muffin.
LILLIAN
So where is she now?
ALICE
Not far.
LILLIAN
And we can go to her right away?
ALICE
She's with this man right now.
LILLIAN
Where?
ALICE
She's been staying with him in his
home downtown.
LILLIAN
Downtown.
ALICE
In his bed.
LILLIAN
What?
ALICE
She's sleeping with him in his bed.
LILLIAN
No she's not ... They've only met
a few weeks, why would she do that?
ALICE
She's fornicated a lot since running
off. A lot more just yesterday.
(sly grin)
And once she's pregnant she'll have
to marry into his family.
104.
LILLIAN
No, no, no - this is Sister
Annabel, my Sister. She can't --
ALICE
But you can. So confess now.
Lillian still holds back. Won't say it.
ALICE
Because she's not your "Sister"
anymore. And she's not your bride.
Lillian's at a loss, takes this in. Something crumbles apart
inside her. She turns back to Alice with a look of despair,
realizes she's been found out.
Very slowly, she breaks down and weeps like a little girl.
LILLIAN
Oh, Alice; please, I'm in such
terrible trouble.
Alice gathers her suitcase, prepares to leave.
LILLIAN
Her father's asked me to bring her
home. But now that I know this about
her, I can't -- I'm sick. I'm such a
sinner ... If you could see how sick
he's been praying for her to return --
Hearing Veale's family troubles, Alice stops in her tracks.
ALICE
What sickness?
LILLIAN
-- Sick and worried and everything
else he's stopped because of this:
his work and church and family --
ALICE
ALICE
But it's my family I chose instead.
So where's yours, Lillian? Who's
going to save you? Who's still
faithful to you now? The meek mother
and husband you've backhanded?
Lillian sinks lower, hangs her head and whimpers, "no, no".
ALICE
Annabel's fixed with a man now just
like us. She's having sex too. Lots
of it. Twenty-four hours a day.
LILLIAN
Don't say these things to me --
ALICE
The Lord's not giving her back.
He's taken her from both of us.
She's Gone From You For Good.
LILLIAN
If she'd go on this missionary work
with me, our family would accept --
106.
ALICE
SEX, LILLIAN. LOTS-AND-LOTS OF SEX!
Adam and Eve just like it says in
your Gospel, isn't that right?
LILLIAN
That's right --
ALICE
(grabs the bible from her)
THAT'S RIGHT, JUST LIKE US. So
she'll never be yours, and you'll
never be her family. Just your
mother's misbegotten child. Daddy
and the Doctor should've slapped
you and shoved you back into the
hole you crawled out of.
Alice raises the bible, offers a mock blessing.
ALICE
Look at me. Look at the Lord, right
here. Are you sick? Are you a sinner?
Lillian lifts her head to speak but no words come out. Alice
smacks her with the book, throws it back at her.
ALICE
WHAT'S WRONG "SISTER"? PUSSY-CAT-
GOT-YOUR-TONGUE?
LILLIAN
STOP SAYING THIS TO ME. PLEASE. I
NEED YOUR HELP --
Alice grabs a pillow from her bed, beats and smothers Lillian
with it. Lillian is hysterical: kicking, fighting, pushing.
ALICE
AREN'T YOU JEALOUS OF ME? COVET
WHAT I HAD WITH HER? I TOOK HER
FROM YOU AND I GAVE HER WHAT YOU
COULDN'T. AND NOW YOU HAVE NO ONE,
LILLIAN. AND YOU HAVE NOTHING. HOW
DARE YOU CALL ME "SISTER"?
Alice slips her hand beneath Lillian's skirt. Lillian lets
out a muffled moan of sexual frustration.
ALICE
Here's the blessing. Here it comes!
Pink Revision (2016.03.23) 107.
THE END.