Dangerous Liaisons
Fictional piece by Kristy Hughes
ACT I
OPENING SHOT: Cagney and Lacey's car cruising down a street in an upper-middle class residential area. The homes are large, traditional mostly two-stories. The lawns are well-manicured. It's a sunny, cool early spring day.
INT. car - Cagney driving, Lacey looking at a file, glances out the window.
LACEY
(Admiringly) Some neighborhood… Report says that Jillian Martin's family hasn't seen her since early yesterday morning. Her parents, Keith and Natalie, both work and fell asleep last night before their daughter was due to come home. They woke up this morning to discover that Jillian's bed was still made and that she obviously hadn't been home all night. It's 1701 Ashcroft, Chris (looks out window) - should be a little further down on the right.
CAGNEY
A missing teenager, Mary Beth? A SEVENTEEN-YEAR-OLD, for God's sake. Twenty bucks says she got smashed last night and she's still at a friend's house sleeping it off. (Sighs and runs her hand through her hair.) The missing person's report can't be filed for another two days. Why are we being sent out to do the interviews? I thought that's what the uniforms were supposed to be good for
LACEY
Do I look like Lt. Samuels to you, Christine? (Suddenly) STOP!!
CAGNEY
(Startled, hitting the brakes) WHAT?!?
LACEY
You nearly passed it! (Pointing) Pull over right there.
CAGNEY
I hate when you yell at me like that! YOU are gonna get us both killed one day
LACEY
(Getting out of the car) Would you look at this house? Harve would love it.
CAGNEY
(Starting up the front walk with Lacey, unimpressed) Uh-huh.
LACEY
A nice front lawn. But not too big, not too much to take care of… A front porch (noticing) - with a swing! I'd love to have my morning coffee on a porch like this
CAGNEY
(Cagney knocks) The suburbs are overrated, Mary Beth.
(Before Mary Beth can respond, the front door opens. An attractive but disheveled woman wearing an expensive looking business suit opens the door.)
LACEY
Mrs. Martin?
NATALIE MARTIN
Yes?
LACEY
I'm Detective Lacey, ma'm. This is Detective Cagney.
NATALIE
Oh… I was expecting uniformed police officers.
CAGNEY
(under her breath) So were we…
(Lacey shoots Cagney a look but quickly covers)
LACEY
No, ma'm. Not this time. You got us. Can we come in?
NATALIE
Of course… Forgive me.
(As they walk in)
LACEY
(Looking around) You have a lovely home.
NATALIE
Thank you. (She hesitates … seems to be unfocused, in shock)
LACEY
Maybe we should sit down?
NATALIE
Yes… You two have a seat in the living room (gesturing to the room off of the entry). I'll get Keith.
(She heads upstairs as Chris and Mary Beth enter the living room. Neither of them sits. They walk around the room, scanning the paintings on the walls and, with more interest, the family photographs placed on tables and shelves around the room. It appears that there are two children in the Martin family, Jillian, a slender, blond, fresh-faced teenager and an equally blond younger brother, no more than 12 years old in what appears to be the most recent family photo. The father, Keith, is tall dark-haired, good-looking. Not male-model handsome, but definitely easy on the eyes. His looks catch Chris' attention and she mentions it to Mary Beth.)
CAGNEY
Not bad, huh?
LACEY
What?
CAGNEY
Mrs. Martin did pretty well for herself. He looks like quite a catch.
LACEY
I guess he's okay if you like that type.
CAGNEY
What type? (Smiling) Tall, dark and handsome?
LACEY
(Laughs) Yeah, THAT type
(Keith and Natalie Martin are suddenly standing in the entry hall - Chris and Mary Beth have their backs to them.)
KEITH MARTIN
Detectives?
(Somewhat startled, Chris puts down the photograph and clears her throat. Mary Beth wipes her hands on her skirt and then reaches out to shake hands with Keith, who is dressed in a suit for work)
LACEY
Mr. Martin? (he nods) I'm Detective Mary Beth Lacey and this is my partner, Detective Cagney.
(Martin shakes hands with both.)
CAGNEY
We just need to ask a few questions about the circumstances surrounding your daughter's disappearance, Mr. Martin. (pauses) Maybe we should all sit down?
(He nods. Cagney and Lacey sit in two wing chairs with a small table in between. The Martin's take the sofa, sitting side by side in the middle of it, Keith with his arm around Natalie.)
So, you noticed that Jillian was gone when you woke up this morning?
NATALIE
Not right when we woke up. Keith and I have to be at work early, before the children go to school. So we both shower and dress before waking Jillian and Daniel.
LACEY
Daniel's your son?
NATALIE
(Shakes her head "yes") Daniel's six years younger than Jill. We wake her first because it takes her longer to get ready … (seems to drift off in thought)
KEITH
(Clears his throat and picks up where his wife left off) We wake her and then we wake Daniel. They get ready, make their own breakfasts and then Jill's friend, Chelsea Doyle, gives them both a ride to school. When we woke this morning, we thought we'd just slept through Jill coming in the front door last night. But when we went into Jill's bedroom her bed was still made. She hadn't come home. And now (looks at watch), it's nearly noon and we still haven't heard from her.
CAGNEY
Where was Jillian supposed to be last night, Mr. Martin? What time did she leave the house?
KEITH
Neither of us was home when she left the house. There was a note left on the counter saying that she would be at Chelsea's after school. That she was having dinner with Chelsea's family and that the two of them would be working on a homework project. Chelsea would bring her home when they were done. Daniel had football practice after school and then went home with a teammate. Natalie picked him up from there and then came home. I didn't get home from work until after 7:00 PM.
CAGNEY
So Jillian had no curfew?
KEITH
She knows she's supposed to be in by 11 o'clock.
LACEY
And you and Mrs. Martin were asleep last night before 11:00 PM?
KEITH
Yes, we've both been working very hard, Detective Lacey. Most nights we don't make it past the 10 o'clock news.
CAGNEY
And Daniel?
KEITH
He's in bed by 10:00 PM. We can't wake Daniel in the mornings if he doesn't get at least eight hours
LACEY
Jillian's friend Chelsea - you've talked to her?
NATALIE
I talked to her mother this morning. She said that Chelsea and Jillian left the house before 9 o'clock saying they were going to stop at "Mugs" - the coffee shop over on 8th street - for a cappucino before dropping Jillian at home. Chelsea was back home a few minutes before 11:00 PM. The Doyle's live only a few blocks from here.
CAGNEY
Have you confirmed this information with Chelsea?
KEITH
We talked with Chelsea after we were done speaking with her mother. She told us the same thing.
NATALIE
Chelsea's a good girl. We've never had any reason not to believe what she tells us.
CAGNEY
But you don't believe her now?
NATALIE
(a bit louder than necessary) I don't know WHAT to believe!! (tearing up) My daughter did not sleep in her bed last night. We didn't hear anyone come into the house. Where is she??
KEITH
(comforting his wife) Natalie, it'll be all right. We'll find her. The Detectives will find her… (he looks at Chris and Mary Beth)
CUT TO:
Chris and Mary Beth coming out the front doors of Washington High School and heading for the car.
CAGNEY
I still say the kid will show up on her own -- before bedtime tonight
LACEY
You can't be sure, Chris. Chelsea Doyle just backed up everything the Martin's told us.
CAGNEY
So? Kids are smart. I can't tell you how many times I sneaked out of the house without my Pop knowing. I went years without getting caught.
LACEY
Just because you were a borderline juvenile delinquent, Christine, does not mean that all teenagers are
CAGNEY
Very funny.
LACEY
Why would Jillian go home, only to sneak out and risk getting caught? Why wouldn't she have had Chelsea drop her off where ever it was she wanted to go?
CAGNEY
She didn't want Chelsea to know
LACEY
They're best friends, Christine. That doesn't make sense.
CAGNEY
Why not? I don't tell you everything
LACEY
But we're not your average best friends, Chris. (Cagney looks at her…) What I MEAN is - we're partners, too, we work together. We have a lot of things to discuss that aren't even related to our personal lives. And we're adults. AND you aren't the most forthcoming person about your feelings or your personal life, anyway
CAGNEY
Don't act like there's something wrong with me just because I don't voice every thought that crosses my mind or express every single feeling that I have
LACEY
That is not what I'm saying to you! The point I'm trying to make is … these are teenage girls. Teenage girls share everything. Their best friends are their whole world.
CAGNEY
Don't forget about their boyfriends
LACEY
(Realizing) We already DID.
CAGNEY
Forgot to ask about boyfriends?
LACEY
Uh-huh.
CAGNEY
Back to the Martin's?
LACEY
Yep
ACT II
FADE TO:
14th Precinct front desk. Desk Sergeant Coleman is on the phone, it's very crowded, noisy. Chris and Mary Beth walk in, start to go right past Coleman who puts the telephone receiver on his shoulder and calls out to them.
COLEMAN
Messages!!! (as they turn back to him and he hands them the pink slips of paper) Two for Cagney … and none for Lacey. Sorry.
LACEY
Don't apologize, Sergeant. Sometimes it's best not to have any
(They walk through the doors to the squad room, both throw their purses on their desks, Lacey sits, Cagney is still standing, reading her messages - we see Isbecki behind her, watching.)
CAGNEY
One from Charlie and
(Suddenly Isbecki wraps his arms around Cagney from behind, she yells out in surprise and immediately begins to struggle, Victor lifts her slightly off her feet.)
HEY!
LACEY
Victor!!
ISBECKI
(As Cagney still struggles to get free) Come on, Cagney! You can do better than that
(Other Detectives are watching, amused, Petrie less so -- Lacey is outraged…)
LACEY
Victor, let her go!
(Just then Cagney stomps on Victors foot, he lets go and she spins around and punches him in the stomach - knocking the wind out of him. The guys laugh as Victor doubles over.)
CAGNEY
What the hell is WRONG with you??? Are you INSANE?? (She gives him a push while he's still doubled over and he leans against the holding cell)
PETRIE
I think Victor was trying to prove a point, using you as an example, Chris. (Points at Isbecki) You got what you deserved, Victor
CAGNEY
(Getting up in Victor's face) Exactly what point were you trying to make, Isbecki??
ISBECKI
Nothing Cagney, it was nothing. I'm sorry. My mistake
PETRIE
You owe her an explanation, Victor. Tell Chris and Mary Beth what you were saying to us before they walked in.
ISBECKI
It was nothing. Really
LACEY
Victor
ISBECKI
I was just saying that some of the women in the department - not ALL of them - just some - kind of
CAGNEY
Kind of WHAT?
ISBECKI
Kind of let themselves go once they get a desk job and
LACEY
AND..???
ISBECKI
And don't work out like they should … and … might not be able to defend themselves in a one-on-one situation
CAGNEY
Victor, you are an idiot
ISBECKI
I'm sorry, Cagney! You proved me wrong
PETRIE
And embarrassed the hell out of him… (the guys laugh, Victor's face turns an even deeper shade of red)
CAGNEY
(Poking Victor in the chest) Don't use me to prove any more of your stupid points, Isbecki. You GOT that??
(He nods)
(Samuels steps out of his office)
SAMUELS
Cagney! Lacey! In here please … if you're not too busy playing around. (shakes his head and walks back in his office leaving the door open)
(Cagney rolls her eyes in disgust and heads for the Lieutenants office; As Lacey walks past Victor who is now seated at his desk, she looks down at him)
LACEY
(Sternly) Grow up
(Shakes her head and then walks into Samuels office right after Cagney)
SAMUELS
(Looks at them a second, then decides not to say anything about what he just saw in the squad room.)
You two get any useful information on the missing teenager?
LACEY
Not much, Lieutenant. We talked to the parents this morning … and the friend Jillian Martin was with last night. They confirmed the initial report.
CAGNEY
I still think the kid left of her own accord. They'll probably hear from her by this evening
SAMUELS
You think she ran away? With a boyfriend or something?
LACEY
No, sir. She didn't have a regular boyfriend according to her parents. But they did hear her on the phone recently talking to someone named "J.D."
SAMUELS
No idea who that is?
CAGNEY
The parents think it was probably a boy she'd just met but she never discussed him with them. They hadn't even given it much thought until we asked them.
SAMUELS
What about her friend, the one who took her home - think she knows who "J.D." is?
CAGNEY
We're going to ask her when school lets out. Figured it might be a little much, pulling her out of class twice in one day. It's not like she's an official suspect.
SAMUELS
Okay… But before you do that - there was a call from a woman who works at a coffee shop on 8th Street
LACEY
"Mugs"?
SAMUELS
That's it. This waitress says she saw a girl matching Jillian's description get into a car with what appeared to be a much older man last night.
CAGNEY
She didn't leave with Chelsea?
SAMUELS
It doesn't sound like it, Cagney. You two need to see the waitress (looks at notes) Tess Harriman, before you go see the friend this afternoon. She'll be at the coffee shop by 3:00 PM for her shift. And, Cagney
CAGNEY
Yes, Lieutenant?
SAMUELS
No more rough-housing with Isbecki in the squad room. It just looks bad…
(Cagney is outraged, can't believe what she's hearing and starts to say so, but Mary Beth steers her out of the office before she can speak.)
CUT TO:
(Chris and Mary Beth sitting on red vinyl bar stools in front of the counter at "Mugs". Tess Harriman, a plump, pleasant-looking woman of about 50, looks over a photo as the Detectives try to read her expression.)
TESS
That's her. (Hands the picture of Jillian back to Lacey) I'm sure of it.
CAGNEY
You're certain you saw THIS girl wait in the parking lot and then leave with a man
TESS
…at least twice her age. That's right.
LACEY
Did you notice who she came in with last night?
TESS
Well… I didn't see her come in. And she wasn't at my station. But I noticed her, and the young girl she was sitting with, when they started arguing.
LACEY
They argued? Raised their voices?
TESS
And banged on the table. For a minute, I thought they were gonna come to blows
CAGNEY
Did you hear what they were saying?
TESS
I wasn't listening until I noticed how worked up they were getting. The blond girl, - she said something about the other girl - the one with short brown hair (fitting Chelsea's description) being jealous … Then the brown-haired girl called her a bitch. I thought the blond was going to slap her right then, but instead, she just slapped the table. Then the brown-haired girl got up and stormed out the door. She hopped into her car and drove away. The blond, she just watched out the window for a second, then got up to use the pay phone near the front door. She stood there watching for a while and then went out into the parking lot when another car pulled in. I saw her talk to the man through the driver-side window of his car and then she got in and they drove away.
CAGNEY
Did you get a plate number?
TESS
No. I didn't try. I didn't exactly think it was a crime - her riding off with the guy.
LACEY
Of course, not. The make and color of the car? Did you notice that?
TESS
I know it was a dark color. A dark green or maybe a dark blue. Four doors. Looked expensive. I think it had a dent in the driver-side door.
CAGNEY
You THINK so or are you certain?
TESS
I … I remember thinking that it was sad that such a nice looking car had a dent like that and I wondered why the man didn't have it fixed. I guess that means I'm certain?
LACEY
(Smiles at Tess) Sounds like it to me… (as Cagney stands) You've been a big help, Tess. We appreciate it.
(Tess smiles, it's nice to be appreciated)
CAGNEY
You'll call us if you remember anything else?
TESS
Sure. (As they walk out) I hope you find the girl.
(Cagney and Lacey smile at the waitress as they leave…)
CUT TO:
Cagney and Lacey pull into the high school parking lot and wait for Chelsea to come out of school. They are parked in a space across from Chelsea's bright yellow Volkswagon watching kids heading for their cars.
LACEY
I told you Harvey's Uncle Vernon died?
CAGNEY
No… What happened? This the Uncle that used to take him fishing when he was a kid?
LACEY
That's the one. Muriel's sister Doris' husband. He was outside on a ladder, painting the garage … fell and hit his head on the concrete driveway. He died before the ambulance arrived
CAGNEY
That's terrible!
LACEY
Uh-huh… Doris' found him lying there, bleeding. They were married 50 years this January. Me and Harve went to the anniversary party. They were so happy … And just like that, he's gone in an instant
CAGNEY
How's she doing?
LACEY
Devastated…in shock.
CAGNEY
I'm so sorry… Tell Harvey I'm sorry, will you? When's the funeral?
LACEY
This afternoon - in Garrison. Harve and Muriel are spending the night with Aunt Doris. He'll be back sometime tomorrow.
CAGNEY
Where are Harve, Jr. and Michael?
LACEY
They rode the bus home this afternoon. Mrs. Walker in the next apartment said she'd look in on them.
CAGNEY
So you need to get home soon.
LACEY
After we talk to Chelsea and go back to sign out. …. Did the heat in your loft ever get fixed?
CAGNEY
There was a note this morning promising the tenants it'll be on again by tomorrow. One more cold night.
LACEY
Why don't you come over? Spend the night?
CAGNEY
I couldn't
LACEY
Why not? The couch isn't the greatest, but at least it's warm at my place.
CAGNEY
Mary Beth
LACEY
Harve's gone, the boys love company
CAGNEY
Really?
LACEY
(smiles) Really.
CAGNEY
It WAS cold last night. I would have stayed with David but he's out of town
LACEY
It's settled then. What do you want for dinner?
CAGNEY
I don't want you going to any trouble… How about pizza? My treat.
LACEY
The boys won't argue with that. They're expecting meatloaf.
CAGNEY
Well, save it for Harvey. … (Spots Chelsea) There she is
(They get out of the car and walk over to meet Chelsea (short dark hair, big brown eyes - dressed in jeans, a dark green sweater and denim jacket) in front of her Volkswagon. She is surprised to see them.)
CHELSEA
What's going on? Has Jillian shown up?
CAGNEY
No. We have a few more questions we'd like to ask. You want to talk here?
CHELSEA
I've only got a few minutes. I have to be home by 5 o' clock.
LACEY
This won't take long.
CHELSEA
What do you wanna know?
LACEY
Are you sure you don't have something you want to tell us?
CHELSEA
Like what?
CAGNEY
Like why you told us - and the Martin's - AND your MOTHER that you dropped Jillian off at home when you didn't?
CHELSEA
(Pauses. Reaches into her jacket pocket and pulls out a pack of cigarettes and a lighter, removes one of them for herself, lights it and pockets the pack and lighter again. She takes a long drag and then says…)
I was going to drop her off
LACEY
What changed your mind?
CHELSEA
We had sort of a fight. At "Mugs". I got mad and left her there. I was as surprised as anyone else when her Mom called and said she hadn't been home all night.
CAGNEY
So, why did you lie about dropping her off?
CHELSEA
It kind of scared me at first, you know? Like I didn't want to get anyone mad at me for leaving her there.
LACEY
Did you two fight a lot?
CHELSEA
No more than any other best friends … She can be kind of a bitch and I can get moody .. you know how it is
LACEY
What did you two fight about last night?
CHELSEA
Nothing. She was just being a pain in the ass, so I left.
CAGNEY
(Rolls eyes) In what particular way was Jillian being a "pain in the ass"?
CHELSEA
Um, she just had an attitude. I can't explain it. I wasn't in the best mood either.
LACEY
Did Jillian mention anyone named "J.D." to you?
CHELSEA
(Hesitates, her expression hard to read) "J.D."? I don't think so
CAGNEY
A waitress at "Mugs" saw Chelsea get into a car with someone last night after you left. A dark green or blue car, possibly with a dent in the driver's door. She thought the man behind the wheel was older … maybe twice Jillian's age but she didn't get a good look at him. Does the description of the car match anyone's you know? Do you have any idea who the man might have been?
CHELSEA
(Another pause) No. No, I've never seen a car like that. And I don't know any "older man" Jillian would take a ride from
CAGNEY
Alright, Chelsea. Go home. If you remember anything or if Jillian contacts you in any way - call us. Immediately. You got that?
CHELSEA
Sure. I want to know where she is, too. She's my best friend, you know?
LACEY
We just want to make sure you're not going to withhold any more information for fear of getting in trouble … or so someone else won't get in trouble.
CHELSEA
I'll call right away if I hear anything.
CAGNEY
You do that
(Chelsea gets into her car and pulls out of the parking lot as Cagney and Lacey watch.)
LACEY
What do you think?
CAGNEY
I don't know. Kids are so damned hard to read. … There's one more thing we should do before calling it a day.
LACEY
What's that?
CAGNEY
Call up the Martin's and see if we can borrow Chelsea's most recent school yearbook. See if we can figure out who the hell "J.D." is
( Lacey nods and they head to the car.)
ACT III:
INT. Lacey Apartment
(After dinner - Chris, Harve Jr. (13) & Michael (9) are sitting on the floor around the coffee table. A game of Monopoly in progress. Chris rolls the dice while Harve Jr. watches intently. Michael is more preoccupied with the little red hotels he's trying to stack one on top of the other. Mary Beth is sitting on the couch thumbing through Jillian's yearbook.)
CAGNEY
Six… No! St. James Place with three houses? Harvey you're killing me!
HARVEY, JR.
(Smiling, reading deed) With three houses … that'll be $600, please.
CAGNEY
Take pity on me, Harvey, I'm nearly broke over here!
HARVEY JR.
Sorry. No can do
CAGNEY
Ruthless… Your son is ruthless, Mary Beth! (To Harvey, Jr.) You are a very mean little man
LACEY
(engrossed in the yearbook, not really paying attention) Mmm-hmm
HARVEY JR.
((laughing) You're supposed to be mean when you play Monopoly! (notices Michael systematically flicking his (Harvey's) houses off the board) Michael! Keep your grubby hands off my property!!
(Michael grabs a handful of houses and hotels off the board and throws them at Harvey, Jr., laughs and gets up to run away)
LACEY
Hey!
HARVEY JR.
(Running after his little brother) You little jerk!
LACEY
Harvey!! (sighs, puts yearbook down and bends over to pick up the scattered game pieces)
CAGNEY
I've never played a game of Monopoly with such an unusual ending
LACEY
(smiling) You've never played with a 13-year-old boy and his pesky little brother.
CAGNEY
I don't suppose that's in the rules somewhere - throwing houses and hotels when it looks as if you're going to lose?
LACEY
(laughing) No, I don't believe so
CAGNEY
Not really a BAD move … strategically speaking. I might try that the next time I play with Pop. He cheats… Any luck finding "J.D." in the yearbook?
LACEY
In last year's junior class there were 8 boys with the initials "J.D." - for first and last name. Who knows if the "D" is a middle initial? I was just starting on the seniors. Doesn't seem likely that Jillian would date younger.
CAGNEY
Not at her age - older men are more exciting.
LACEY
I'm going to tuck the boys in… Forget I said that. Harvey would kill me if he knew I told YOU I was going to tuck HIM in.
CAGNEY
I didn't hear a thing. … Here (reaching for the annual) - I'll take a look at the year book while you're … saying "goodnight".
LACEY
How about another glass of wine when I come back?
CAGNEY
Sure. As long as you'll join me. Kiss them g'night for me.
(Cagney kicks back on the couch, thumbing the pages - finds the senior class and begins to write down the "J.D."s. She then flips to the inside back cover and starts reading the inscriptions, squinting to make out some of them. Lacey returns to the kitchen, grabs the half empty bottle of wine and their glasses. She brings it to the coffee table and pours. Picking up her glass of wine, she sits at the opposite end of the couch from Cagney, propping her feet on the coffee table)
LACEY
Find anything?
CAGNEY
Besides some very healthy looking boys in last year's senior class? You know … they'd be legal by now… (off Mary Beth's look) Kidding! …. I found another 6 "J.D."s. I've been reading what Jillian's friends wrote in the back… Some things never change do they? "Stay Sweet", "Always Stay the Same", "2 Cool 2 Be 4-gotten"… The boys writing is barely legible, the girls - it's that bubbly teenage thing - little hearts dotting the "I"s… God, I hope I never did that.
LACEY
Any of the kids happen to sign "J.D."?
CAGNEY
Nope. The only "J" signature I saw was "Jenny" who wished Jillian "an awesome summer filled with lots of cute boys."
LACEY
Maybe it's a new kid.
CAGNEY
Maybe… I can't look at this any more right now. It's giving me a headache. (Cagney puts down the book and picks up her wineglass)
LACEY
So…what's next? We check out our 14 "J.D."s - with Chelsea? Maybe some of Jillian's other friends?
CAGNEY
Yep. Show their pictures to the parents … see if they recognize any of them.
LACEY
What's your take on Chelsea?
CAGNEY
I don't think she's telling us everything she knows. She still seems like she's protecting someone.
LACEY
I agree. She didn't seem very surprised that Jillian rode away with an "an older man", either.
CAGNEY
And I'm sure she remembers EXACTLY what she and Jillian were arguing about. It was last night, for God's sake. … The kid's playing dumb and it's beginning to get on my nerves.
LACEY
So, what do you think? Some boy's come between them?
CAGNEY
Probably
LACEY
(Pauses - thinking) Were you serious about any boys at their age, Chris?
CAGNEY
I was in an all-girls school for years, remember? Probably a smart move on my parents part… But, I did graduate shortly after turning seventeen. (small laugh) And I made up for lost time pretty quickly after that… (another pause … thinking) How about you, Mary Beth? Who was your first love?
LACEY
Ummm. First real "crush" was Bobby Stanton. Fifteen-years-old, tall, skinny. He had a slight lisp and chipped front tooth. I thought I'd die if he didn't ask me out
CAGNEY
So did he?
LACEY
He asked me to the last dance of my sophomore year. We danced once that night. He spent the rest of the night sitting outside with his friends, smoking cigarettes -- trying to look cool. I stayed inside with his friends' dates and drank too much punch. … You'd think that would have been the end of it - but we dated for almost two years.
CAGNEY
So… was Bobby your first?
LACEY
My first what?
CAGNEY
Your first TIME
LACEY
(slightly shocked) Christine, I was fifteen years old.
CAGNEY
You said you dated for almost two years … there's a big difference between seventeen and fifteen, Mary Beth. And two years is a LONG time for teenagers. Hell, it's a long time for anybody
LACEY
(Smiling) He wanted to … But I wasn't ready.
CAGNEY
That the reason you broke up?
LACEY
(Remembering) … He said no…but I think it was… How about you?
CAGNEY
I was so drunk I can barely remember my first time … (whispers, conspiratorially) It was a teacher.
LACEY
No! One of your teachers? In high school??
CAGNEY
(looks disgusted) The teachers in my HIGH SCHOOL were NUNS! (quieter) This was my first year of college, I wasn't quite eighteen.
LACEY
HOW did you end up with a teacher? Was he handsome?
CAGNEY
I thought so. Actually, everyone thought so. The girls were always talking about how sexy he was… Jeffrey Bowman. PROFESSOR Jeffrey Bowman.
LACEY
What did he teach?
CAGNEY
Romance Languages.
LACEY
Figures
CAGNEY
He was very tall and muscular, about 30, 35 years old. Sandy blond hair and this sexy little mustache. Not all buttoned down like the other professors. He'd loosen his tie and roll up his sleeves before teaching class.
LACEY
So, how did you go from pupil to
CAGNEY
(laughs) Oh…well… we'd been making eye contact … meaningful eye contact all semester. One day, after class, he stopped me before I left. It was the last day before the Christmas break. He told me that I was an excellent student, very eager to learn ..
LACEY
(interrupting) right
CAGNEY
(shoots her a look) ANYWAY … he said he had this book for me, that he kept forgetting to bring to class. He wrote down his address and gave it to me. Said if I had time that afternoon, before leaving for the holidays, I should stop by and pick it up. … I KNEW there was more to it. I was so excited, I could hardly breathe. This gorgeous man that I'd been fantasizing about - and believe me, these were some pretty good fantasies - he wanted ME to come to his house. So I rushed back to the dorm, showered and changed, and changed again, two or three more times - because I couldn't make up my mind what to wear. I finally get out the door and drive over to his house
LACEY
(very caught up in this) AND
CAGNEY
He opens the door and asks me in. Tells me to have a seat on the couch while he gets the book. There's a FIRE in the fireplace. He comes back a few minutes later with a tray in hand, holding not only the book, but a bottle of wine and two glasses.
LACEY
(The wine is getting to both of them) Oh, my God
CAGNEY
That's what I was thinking… So he pours us both a glass, while I sit there dumbfounded. Says we should talk a little before I go … I don't even know what we talked about. School, I guess, a little about me, maybe. We drink and we talk and we … talk and we drink some more. Before I know it, the bottle of wine is gone. Sometime during the conversation he mentioned that his wife would be out for most of the evening. I'm thinking "WHAT WIFE?", but after a few drinks that ceased to matter. So… the wine is gone and the fire is dying and he moves in close and starts kissing my neck … God, I love that
LACEY
(dreamily) Me, too
CAGNEY
One thing leads to another. He's unbuttoned, I'm unbuttoned. All of a sudden there's this pile of clothes on the floor. …I'm enjoying myself. … And then
LACEY
And then???
CAGNEY
I must have blacked out or something. I can remember things … PROGRESSING… feeling a little hesitant about the whole thing but not wanting to stop, you know? The next thing I remember Bowman's shaking me awake saying we'd fallen asleep and his wife was due home at any moment. I'm still out of it … he's helping me dress. All I want to do is go back to sleep but he keeps telling me I have to wake up and get out before she gets home. I'm sitting on the couch and he's bent over me, half-dressed himself and trying to button my shirt when his wife walks in
(Lacey gasps…)
CAGNEY
My reactions were slow and I was still a little fuzzy. I think she stood in the doorway -- in shock - for a minute or two … and then she comes flying in - SCREAMING at him! And then at ME. I'm trying to stand up and grab my purse, I'm even looking around for the damned book I came over for in the first place, when she hauls off and slaps me. Hard! Starts calling me all sorts of names. Professor Bowman grabs her, to keep her from killing me, I guess, and yells at me to leave. I ran out, fell into my car and drove away. God knows how I made it back to the dorm… I remember driving with the windows down, cold air to keep me awake, my face stinging where I'd been slapped. I didn't think about much until I got back to my room. I remember feeling a little …sore… I couldn't remember if he'd used a condom and I certainly wasn't on anything. I spent the next two weeks scared to death I might be pregnant.
LACEY
That's terrible!
CAGNEY
(shrugs) Oh, well. (drains what's left of her wine) …Happy ending - I got my period.
LACEY
But is that how you WANTED your first time to be??
CAGNEY
Nooo. But my second time made up for it
LACEY
With the Professor?
CAGNEY
(rolls eyes) The wine has gone to your head, Mary Beth. Go to bed
LACEY
(sighs) I think you're right. It's been … interesting...
CAGNEY
(laughs) Right
(Lacey gets up, starts to head off to bed… and then stops)
LACEY
Chris … It never occurred to us that "J.D." might be a TEACHER.
CAGNEY
I should have been the one to think of that!
LACEY
Your story triggered it… Have another look at the yearbook?
CAGNEY
Yeah, if I can keep my eyes open
LACEY
I put two blankets and a pillow on the chair. You gonna be okay?
CAGNEY
Terrific. Your couch and a blanket or two is way better than my loft with no heat.
Thank you, Mary Beth.
LACEY
You are welcome any time
CAGNEY
'night.
LACEY
Good night.
ACT IV
Lacey's up and already showered, in the kitchen trying to quietly get the boys lunches together, while Cagney still sleeps on the couch, the yearbook lying open across her. Michael is awake, still in pajamas, finishing a bowl of cereal - he's been told to be quiet for a little bit. While his Mom's back is turned, he leaves the table and goes into the living room. Standing before Chris, he's curious about the book laying across her, watches her sleep for a moment, tries to pick up the book without waking her. It doesn't work. She opens her eyes, just as he's taking the book
CAGNEY
(smiling sleepily) Good morning, Michael.
MICHAEL
(grinning shyly) Hi
CAGNEY
You're up early.
MICHAEL
I always wake up early. Sometimes I have to wake up Mom and Dad .
CAGNEY
So, you're the family alarm clock? If your Mom's late to work - I'll tell the Lieutenant to call here and yell at you
(Michael laughs as Lacey comes in from the kitchen)
LACEY
Michael! I thought I told you we were going to let Christine sleep a little longer
CAGNEY
It's alright, Mary Beth. I was already awake.
(Michael looks at her surprised, she winks at him and he smiles.)
LACEY
(not believing them) Uh-huh. Go get your brother up, Michael. I've tried twice already.
(as Michael runs off Lacey shouts to him) and get dressed! …. (looks at Chris) One's up at the crack of dawn, the other could sleep all day
CAGNEY
(smiles, stretching) … Found someone in Jillian's yearbook we may want to check out.
LACEY
Who?
CAGNEY
(Picks up book and flips until she finds the right page) Jay D. Ryan
(handing Lacey the book and pointing to his picture) an English teacher.
LACEY
Kind of cute. You think it's him?
CAGNEY
I thought he was as good a guess as any. Then I started flipping through the clubs, student organizations. Here… (takes the book back from Lacey, thumbs through it again until she finds the page she's looking for and hands it back) Look who was on the yearbook staff.
LACEY
(Scans the group photo and sees the girls sitting together in the bottom row) Jillian and Chelsea
CAGNEY
And the faculty member in charge
LACEY
Jay D. Ryan. Could be coincidence…
CAGNEY
And then again, maybe not
LACEY
Okay. … Your turn to hit the showers. I'll see the boys to the bus stop and we'll make it to work - at least 5 minutes early.
(Cagney heads off to the bathroom … Lacey steps into the hallway and shouts)
Harvey, if you aren't out here in 10 minutes Michael gets your bowl of cereal, too!
CUT TO:
Cagney and Lacey waiting in the Principal's Office at Washington High School, sitting in chairs opposite Principal Wagner's desk.
CAGNEY
This lady's kept us waiting long enough - where is she? I spent enough time in the Principal's office when I was in school
LACEY
Why does that not surprise me?
(The door opens and Principal Martha Wagner enters. She's slender, early 50's, strawberry-blonde hair.)
WAGNER
Detectives? I'm Martha Wagner (shakes their hands and they introduce themselves). Have you found Jillian Martin?
LACEY
No m'am, we haven't.
WAGNER
I know two days may not seem like a long time to be gone - but to parents it can be an eternity.
LACEY
Believe me, I know, Ms. Wagner. I have two boys of my own.
WAGNER
Do you have any promising leads?
CAGNEY
A couple. What can you tell us about Jay D. Ryan?
WAGNER
Mr. Ryan? He's an English teacher here. A favorite of the students. Why?
CAGNEY
Jillian was last seen accepting a ride from a man who looked to be roughly twice her age. Her parents heard her on the phone twice in the last few days talking to someone named "J.D." Two of her friends from the year book staff, (looks at notes) Joshua Lund and Courtney McGuiness, said that Jillian had a major crush on Mr. Ryan. So we're checking out all the possibilities
LACEY
We'd like to speak to Mr. Ryan, Ms. Wagner.
WAGNER
I'm afraid you can't. (off their look) He's not here. He's called in sick for the past two days.
CAGNEY
In that case, we'd like to have his home address and phone number.
WAGNER
Of course … my secretary will give you that information. … (she gets up and so do they, as she opens the door) I think you're barking up the wrong tree, Detectives. Jay D. Ryan is a wonderful man and well-respected teacher.
LACEY
We just have a few questions to ask, Ms. Wagner. That's all.
WAGNER
Tell him to hurry back. His students miss him already.
(Lacey nods and both leave the office.)
CUT TO:
(Cagney and Lacey knocking on the door of a modest home in a middle class neighborhood. There is no answer…)
CAGNEY
So, he's playing hooky… And Chelsea happens to be out sick, too.
LACEY
Think it's more than a coincidence?
CAGNEY
I'm beginning to
LACEY
(Both heading back to the car) Back to the squad room, run by Chelsea's and then back here - settle in for a wait if we have to?
CAGNEY
I'm really not looking forward to this
(Both get into the car, shut the doors and pull away.)
CUT TO:
Chris and Mary Beth in the squad room walking out of Samuels office and heading for their desks.
LACEY
Give me a second to call and see if Harvey's made it home yet.
(Cagney nods. She's straightening her desk, packing up a few things since they probably won't be back again today. Victor passes behind her and she does a slow turn watching him carefully)
ISBECKI
What?
CAGNEY
I get nervous when you're out of my line of vision.
ISBECKI
I always knew you had a hard time keeping your eyes off me, Cagney.
CAGNEY
(rolls eyes) Right… I just want to make sure you're not about to pull anything stupid … after what happened yesterday.
ISBECKI
(raises hands in a helpless gesture) Not me, Cagney. I learned my lesson already. Anybody tries to grab you better think twice.
CAGNEY
(smiles at him) You better believe it
ISBECKI
(winks) You must be murder on your boyfriends
CAGNEY
You'll never know.
(Isbecki laughs and walks away. Mary Beth is finishing her telephone conversation with Harvey)
LACEY
(into phone) I'm glad you made it home, sweetheart. … Me, too. … Bye.
CAGNEY
Harvey made it home okay?
LACEY
Yeah. Muriel decided to stay on with Aunt Doris for the rest of the week. We'll probably drive up together this weekend and pick her up.
CAGNEY
Sad circumstances, but it'll be nice for you to get away for a bit.
LACEY
A three-hour car ride with two kids bickering in the backseat is no vacation. I'd rather sit up all night on a stake-out with you
CAGNEY
(Makes a face) Thanks for the compliment
(Lacey smiles and they both grab their jackets and head out to the car).
CUT TO:
Mr. Ryan's house, Cagney and Lacey are heading up the walk when they hear gunfire inside the house. Both immediately draw their guns. On three, Lacey kicks in the front door and Cagney leans in, gun drawn, looking around. No one visible in the living room, the detectives go from room to room - and then hear sobbing coming from a bedroom upstairs. They run up the stairs toward the sound. Their eyes are drawn first to the bloodstained sheets partially covering two naked bodies - Jillian and Mr. Ryan. Both have been shot in the head. Hearing the sobs again, they turn to the corner of the room behind them. Chelsea is sobbing and shaking. She is holding the gun to her temple.
CAGNEY
(Breathlessly) Chelsea, put the gun down
CHELSEA
(choking her words out between sobs) No… I can't
LACEY
YES, Chelsea, you can… You don't want to do this. Tell us what happened
CHELSEA
He loved ME… He TOLD me so
CAGNEY
Chelsea, if you put down the gun, we'll sit and talk. You can tell us all about it. Look, I'm going to put down my gun and then you can give me yours
(Cagney watches for some answer - Chelsea slowly nods her head and relaxes her arm a bit, allowing the gun to drop a little - Cagney takes this as a "yes" and puts down her gun, she then slowly takes a step forward, Lacey still holding her gun on Chelsea - adrenaline pumping. Cagney takes another step - just as Chelsea suddenly looks up into her face, jerks her arm up slightly pressing the gun against her own temple and fires. Cagney jumps - Lacey yells "No!" as Chelsea's body slides down the wall leaving a trail of blood.. Chris turns to Mary Beth, in shock and shaking, blood spattered on her shirt and neck After a second or two, Mary Beth puts down her gun and walks over grabbing Chris' by the arms to keep her steady, looks over Chris' shoulder at Chelsea's body and closes her eyes.)
CUT TO:
Lacey outside an upstairs bathroom, water is running inside. Uniformed officers and two detectives are in the bedroom with the three bodies. There's a lot going on … pictures are taken of the crime scene. You can see through the bedroom window that it's getting dark outside. Lacey looks exhausted.
LACEY
(Through the door) Chris, are you all right?
CAGNEY
(voice muffled but sounds choked up) I'll be out in a second.
Lacey moves across the hall and stands outside the bedroom door, watching what's going on inside the bedroom. Just then the bathroom door opens and Chris walks out, she's washed her face and neck, her hair is slightly damp and shirt is wet in front.
LACEY
(Walking to her) God, you're pale
CAGNEY
(Voice breaking) If I have to go back in there I'll be sick, Mary Beth. It's all I can do to keep myself from getting that way now.
LACEY
I think they're done with us. I'll tell them we're leaving. (Notices Chris isn't paying attention, her head is down and she's trying to rub what's left of the blood stains off the front of her shirt). Chris?
CAGNEY
I just … (looks up - still seeming out of it) … I can't get these stains out
LACEY
Are you all right?
(Chris looks up again and shakes her head "yes")
Wait here. I'll tell them we're leaving.
(Mary Beth walks into the room, talks briefly with a detective. When she comes out, Chris is rubbing at her shirt sleeve.)
Come on, Chris. (Cagney, intent on what she's doing, doesn't move. Mary Beth turns back and looks at her for a second, then gently grabs her arm) Come on
(Cagney follows her down the stairs and out to the car. It's dark now. There are lots of flashing blue and white lights out in front of the house, police cars, ambulance. A news van is pulling up just as Chris and Mary Beth get into the car. Chris reaches for her seatbelt and pulls it halfway across herself, stops looking out the window at all the lights, the chaos. Mary Beth looks up at her and then reaches for the seatbelt in Cagney's hand and fastens it for her. Chris looks down, noticing what Mary Beth has just done, sits up straighter, takes a deep breath and runs both hands through her hair quickly, shaking her head - trying to snap herself out of it)
CAGNEY
God, I need a drink
LACEY
I'll buy.
CAGNEY
I can't go in anywhere like this
LACEY
You can come home with me just the way you are… You can borrow a shirt. We'll stop by your place in the morning.
CAGNEY
The heat's probably fixed Mary Beth. Besides, Harvey's home… I don't want to intrude.
LACEY
You are never an intrusion. I'm just not sure you should be home alone tonight - whether the heat's fixed or not.
CAGNEY
I'll be fine. Really.
LACEY
You're sure?
CAGNEY
Absolutely
(Mary Beth nods her acceptance, even though it's clear she's not too sure about this. Ariel shot of the car pulling away and FREEZE FRAME).
THE END
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