Welcome Home: SCENE EIGHT

INTERIOR FRONT LOBBY — DUSK
ESTRELLA PUTS THE COVER OVER CAPTAIN AHAB’S CAGE

ESTRELLA
Buenos noches, Capitan. Que le duerme bien.

ESTRELLA LOCKS THE FRONT DOOR.
SHE RETURNS TO THE RECEPTION AREA AND TAKES HER PURSE OUT OF THE CABINET. THEN SHE WALKS TO THE BACK HALLWAY DOOR AND TURNS OFF THE LIGHTS.

CUT TO:
CYNTHIA’S HAND IN SEMI-DARKNESS, REACHES UP AND TURNS ON A LIGHT SWITCH.
LIGHTS COME UP AS CYNTHIA ENTERS THE BUGALOW SHE SHARES WITH ARMANDO, HER STANDARD POODLE GIDEON, AND HIS MINIATURE POODLE POODOO.

CYNTHIA
Hi, guys! Mom’s home!

(BEAT)

Gideon? PooDoo?

(BEAT)

(WHISTLES) Boys! Hey, guys! Where are you? (TO HERSELF) Surely they aren’t still outside.

CYNTHIA WALKS THROUGH THE HALL INTO THE LIVING ROOM.

ARMANDO’S VOICE
Say hi to mom, boys.

ARMANDO IS SITTING ON THE COUCH WITH AN ARM AROUND EACH DOG. THE DOGS ARE WIGGLING LIKE MAD TO GET FREE AND GO GREET CYNTHIA.

CYNTHIA
Armando? Armando!

ARMANDO
I just couldn’t go another day without seeing you.

CUT TO:
INTERIOR ROBBIE’S APARTMENT — DUSK
ROBBIE’S APARTMENT IS DIMLY LIT BY A RED-AND-WHITE TABLE LAMP MADE OF A CLEAR CYLINDER THAT IS FILLED WITH BASEBALLS.
ROBBIE ENTERS WITH PAYHECK’S LEASH IN ONE HAND AND A VERY LARGE SHOPPING BAG FROM PET CRAFT IN THE OTHER HAND.

ROBBIE
Home sweet home, Paycheck.

ROBBIE UNHOOKS THE LEASH FROM PAYCHECK’S COLLAR.

ROBBIE
Check it out, big fella. It’s all yours.

PAYCHECK STANDS BESIDE ROBBIE.
ROBBIE DROPS THE LARGE SHOPPING BAG ON THE FLOOR.
HE STARTS TO WALK AROUND, TAKING PAYCHECK ON A TOUR OF THE APARTMENT.

ROBBIE
This is the couch we’ll sit on to watch baseball on TV…..(IN THE KITCHEN) And here is where we’ll have breakfast. … (WALKS DOWN THE HALL TO THE BEDROOM) This is our bed. Come on. Try it out. (HE SITS ON THE BED AND PATS IT.) You can do it. Come on up!

PAYCHECK JUMPS UP ON THE BED AND PUTS HIS HEAD ON ROBBIE’S SHOULDER.

ROBBIE
Yeah. You’re going to be just fine.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR ESTRELLA’S HOUSE — DUSK
ESTRELLA UNLOCKS THE DOOR TO HER HOUSE. SHE OPENS THE DOOR, STANDS SIDEWAYS IN THE MERE CRACK OF AN OPENING AND PUTS HER FOOT IN THE DOOR TO KEEP ANY CATS FROM ESCAPING.
ONCE INSIDE SHE WALKS TO HER BEDROOM AND HANGS HER PURSE ON THE DOORKNOB. SHE GOES TO THE BED AND SITS DOWN ON IT. FIRST SHE TAKES OFF HER SHOES. THEN SHE BENDS OVER TO PET PAULIE.

ESTRELLA
It was such a good day, Paulie. Cynthia is going to see her Armando, Moxie is going to get a girlfriend, and Robbie has a dog. So, what does my Paulie have?

ESTRELLA HOLDS THE CAT’S FRONT PAWS IN HER HANDS AND MASSAGES THEM.

ESTRELLA
Well, you have claws that could use a trim.

(BEAT)

Tonight when you’re sleepy, eh? Right now, let’s see what your brothers and sister have.

ESTRELLA PICKS UP THE CAT AND WALKS TO THE LIVING ROOM. SHE SITS ON THE COUCH, STILL HOLDING PAULIE. TWO MORE CATS JUMP UP ON THE COUCH. ONE RUBS AGAINST THE LEGS OF THE COUCH. ONE CAT, SNOOZING IN AN ARMCHAIR, RAISES ITS HEAD AND BLINKS.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR A. MICHAEL’S APARTMENT — DUSK
A. MICHAEL OPENS THE DOOR TO SARA BERNHART’S HABITAT. HE TAKES HER OUT AND CUDDLES HER UNDER HIS CHIN.


A. MICHAEL
Hello, Beautiful Sarah Bernhart. May I amuse you with a tale of adventure and feats of valor? Ah, the princess looks adoringly at her knight. Strange beasts today. A dragon. One just large enough to be your pet, my pet. He had eyes that swiveled in his head. And a tongue most frightening. But your hero took him on. Peace in the kingdom tonight. The dragon lives—but far, far away from you, my lovely.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR EMILY’S HOUSE — DUSK
EMILY IS IN THE KITCHEN, WITH O’HOWLORAN THE IRISH WOLFHOUND. SHE TAKES A BLOCK OF CHEESE OUT OF THE REFRIGERATOR; SHE TAKES A KNIFE OUT OF A DRAWER. SHE CUTS A LARGE SLICE OF CHEESE, THEN CUTS IT IN HALF. ONE-HALF SHE GIVES TO O’HOWLORAN, AND ONE-HALF SHE EATS WHILE SHE TALKS TO THE DOG.

EMILY
Pretty good day, old boy. How about yours?

(BEAT)

There is something I have to tell you, though. Do you remember that little brother I talked about? Well, he got another home today.

(CUTS ANOTHER PIECE OF CHEESE, HALFS IT, SHARES IT WITH THE DOG.)

The thing is, O’Howloran, he’s going to live with Robbie. I know you’re disappointed, but really, big boy, it’s a good thing. Robbie needs a dog. He doesn’t have anyone, and you and I have each other. It works out.

(BEAT)

We’ll keep his place warm. Just between us, right?



END EPISODE THREE: Welcome Home


GOING TO THE DOGS TAKES A BREAK FOR SUMMER HIATUS.

Welcome Home: SCENE 7

INTERIOR KENNEL AREA — DAY
ROBBIE IS HOLDING MR. BUN AS HE TALKS ON A CELL PHONE.

ROBBIE
Hi, Mom. How’s my best girl? … Nope, just keeping company with Mr. Bun. Well, that and telling you I finally met the new apartment manager. … She’s really nice, Mom. And guess what?! She says I can have a dog! … Yeah! Of my very own! … During the day? … Why couldn’t he come to work with me? He’d have lots of company. And he’d get to know Mr. Bun. … Dr. Em? No. I’m talking to you. … Oh, Okay. I’ll talk to her.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA— DAY
ESTRELLA IS AT THE MAIN DESK, TALKING ON THE PHONE.


ESTRELLA
No, no, no, no. I most certainly do NOT want to relinquish this greyhound. We’re keeping him. …

SOUNDS OFF
PHONE RINGS

ESTRELLA
(SIGHS) We, the Mayfield Veterinary Clinic, owned and run by Dr. Emily Mayfield. … Yes, she has a transfer of interest from the owner’s beneficiary. …

SOUNDS OFF
PHONE RINGS

ESTRELLA
Yes, those are the correct numbers on his tattoo. Would you hold, please? (PUSHES BUTTONS ON PHONE) Mayfield Veterinary Clinic, can you hold please? … Thank you, Mr. Dexter. (PUSHES BUTTONS ON PHONE) What were those numbers again? … Yes, that is his tattoo. … How about we make this as easy as possible, okay? … He’s here in the clinic, and he’s still recovering. He’s here. He’s going to stay here. He’s not coming back to you. How about you fix your records? … Okay? Okay. And when will Dr. Mayfield get those papers? … That will be lovely. … And you, too. (PUSHES BUTTONS ON PHONE) Mr. Dexter? … Oh, good, I didn’t lose you. What can we do for you today? …

CUT TO:
INTERIOR KENNEL AREA — DAY
ROBBIE IS HOLDING MR. BUN AS HE TALKS ON A CELL PHONE.


ROBBIE
So what do I say to her? … Well, sure she’s a nice lady, but what if she says ‘no’? … I just need to ask her, don’t I? … Yes, Mom, I’ll remember to say ‘please.’


CUT TO:
INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA— DAY
ESTRELLA IS AT THE MAIN DESK, TALKING ON THE PHONE.


ESTRELLA
No, I don’t think it would do any harm to put off Moxie’s allergy shot for three days. Why? … No, Mr. Dexter, I’m not in the Chipper Clipper, so I don’t know Gordon’s schedule. But I know Gordon loves your Moxie. I’d trust his new schedule, if it was me. … (SMILES) I see. No, Mr. Dexter, we don’t want to make Moxie come all the way to town twice in one week. He will be so much happier if he can get his shot and his shampoo on the same day. … Of course you will. (TYPES ON THE KEYBOARD) It’s done. Third Tuesday of the month. You take care of little Moxie. (HANGS UP)


CUT TO:
INTERIOR TREATMENT AREA — DAY
CYNTHIA IS IN THE TREATMENT AREA FILLING OUT CHARTS.
ROBBIE ENTERS WITH PAYCHECK ON LEASH


ROBBIE
Hey, Cyn, can I ask you something?

CYNTHIA
Something wrong with Paycheck?

ROBBIE
Is something wrong? I don’t know, Cyn. Is there?

CYNTHIA
No. He looks good, doesn’t he? What did you want to ask?

ROBBIE
You sure he’s okay?

CYNTHIA
I’m sure Robbie. What was your question?

ROBBIE
How do I talk to Dr. Em about a dog?

CYNTHIA
(PUZZLED) You talk to Dr. Em about dogs all the time.

ROBBIE
About a dog for ME.

CYNTHIA
(TRYING TO FIGURE OUT WHAT ROBBIE IS TALKING ABOUT) What about a dog for you?

ROBBIE
I can have one now. (PAYCHECK IS LEANING AGAINST ROBBIE’S LEG) (TO PAYCHECK) Isn’t that great, Paycheck?

CYNTHIA
So why do you need to talk to Dr. Em?

ROBBIE
Mom said I should. To make sure it’s okay for me to bring my dog to work with me.

CYNTHIA
Okaaay. (STIFLES A SMILE) Your mom’s right. You do need to ask Dr. Em.

ROBBIE
How?

CYNTHIA
Just like you said it to me.

ROBBIE
But you’re not Dr. Em, Cynthia.

CYNTHIA
It’ll be okay. Just ask her like you said it to me.

CUT TO:
INTERIOR EXAM ROOM #1 — DAY
ROBBIE IS CLEANING THE EXAM TABLE
A. MICHAEL ENTERS


ROBBIE
Hi, Dr. Kendrick.

A.MICHAEL
Robbie.

ROBBIE
You like dogs?

A.MICHAEL
Uhhhh. Yeah.

ROBBIE
I can have a dog.

A.MICHAEL
That’s nice.

ROBBIE
And I want to bring him to work with me. (BEAT) Or maybe her. Do you think it might be a girl?

A.MICHAEL
To work with you?

ROBBIE
If Dr. Em says I can.

A.MICHAEL
Well, let me tell you how I feel about that.

ROBBIE
(EXCITED) I’ll go ask her right now.

ROBBIE EXITS


CUT TO:
INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA
ESTRELLA IS SEATED AT THE MAIN DESK
ROBBIE ENTERS


ROBBIE
(TO ESTRELLA) I can have a dog!

ESTRELLA
Really, Querido? How wonderful! Where are you going to get your dog?

(BEAT)

What are you going to name your dog?

(BEAT)

Okay. What is your puppy going to do during the day?

ROBBIE
I hadn’t thought about those. But I’ll bet Officer Trumbull could help me find a dog of my own. I don’t know about a name, though.

ESTRELLA
The dog will tell you its name. They always do.

ROBBIE
Really? They tell you?

ESTRELLA
I’ll come over to your apartment and I’ll help listen for his name.

ROBBIE
But I want him to be here, Estrella. I want him to come to work with me.

ESTRELLA
That’s a good idea, Robbie. Does Dr. Em know about your dog?

ROBBIE
Not yet. My mom says I have to ask her permission.

ESTRELLA
That’s a good idea.

ROBBIE
Will you ask her for me?

ESTRELLA
You know I can’t do that, Querido. But I’ll be beside you when you ask her.

ROBBIE
Thanks, Estrella.

(FADE TO WHITE)

(FADE IN)
INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA — DAY
ESTRELLA IS STANDING AT THE COUNTER
OFFICER TRUMBULL IS STANDING ON THE CLIENT SIDE OF THE COUNTER
EMILY IS BESIDE OFFICER TRUMBULL


ESTRELLA
(TURNS TO HALLWAY DOOR AND CALLS OUT) Robbie! Can you come up front?

ROBBIE ENTERS

ROBBIE
I’m here, Estrella. Oh, hi, Officer Trumbull. Got any new dogs?

OFFICER TRUMBULL
Hi, Robbie. No, son, all I have today is a problem.

ROBBIE
What kind of problem?

OFFICER TRUMBULL
Well, it’s a dog problem, Robbie. There’s this great dog that needs a home —

ROBBIE
I can have a dog.

OFFICER TRUMBULL
That’s nice, son, but this dog has a special problem.

ROBBIE
I’m pretty good with dogs.

OFFICER TRUMBULL
But see, this dog works. He has a very important job, and he has to go to work every day.

ROBBIE
Boy, he must be a really important dog.

OFFICER TRUMBULL
He is. Problem is, he doesn’t have any place to go after work.

ROBBIE
He’s HOMELESS?

OFFICER TRUMBULL
Well, not exactly. But he doesn’t have a family of his own, so after work he’s really lonely.

ROBBIE
Yeah. I know what you mean. My apartment’s pretty lonely, too.

OFFICER TRUMBULL
Oh, yeah?

ROBBIE
Sure is. After I get home from having supper with Mom. (TO EMILY) What happens to important dogs, Dr. Em?

EMILY
Officer Trumbull, you have any ideas?

OFFICER TRUMBULL
I was hoping you all might know of someone who could bring an important dog to work every day, and take him home at night. Someone to be his family.

ROBBIE
Hey! I could do that! I can have a dog, and I go to work every day! (TO EMILY) Couldn’t I do that, Dr. Em?

EMILY
That’s a great idea, Robbie. I mean, I think it’s a great idea. What do you think, Officer Trumbull?

OFFICER TRUMBULL
Yes, m’am, I think it’s a real good idea. But maybe we ought to ask the dog what he thinks.

ROBBIE
Do I get to meet him? Is he a boy?

ESTRELLA
(CALLS DOWN THE HALL) Cynthia, would you bring him in, please?

CYNTHIA ENTERS WITH PAYCHECK ON LEASH

ROBBIE
Paycheck! You were talking about Paycheck?! (KNEELS DOWN AND PUTS HIS ARMS AROUND THE GREYHOUND) Hey, buddy, do you want to live at my house? You can sleep on the bed. There’s plenty of room for both of us.

EMILY EXITS THROUGH HALLWAY.
EMILY AND ESTRELLA GIVE EACH OTHER A HIGH FIVE AS EMILY PASSES BY.

(CONTINUED)

Welcome Home: SCENE 6

INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA — DAY
ESTRELLA IS AT THE MAIN DESK TALKING ON THE PHONE

ESTRELLA
A salt water tank? … Well, of course. The colors are so much brighter. … I can see that could be a very delicate problem. … No, sir, we don’t have an ichthyologist on staff. … No, I do not suggest you should just wait and see if she dies. I’m going to give you the number of the ichthyologist Dr. Em uses. … Yes, sir, a Dr. Haggartay. … Whenever you’re ready. … 813-555-1218. … No, sir, it’s Tampa. … Yes, sir. Good luck. (HANGS UP THE PHONE)

(BEAT)

ESTRELLA
(CALLS OUT) Cynthia! (BEAT) Cynthia? (BEAT) Robbie, do you know where Cynthia is?

SOUNDS OFF

ROBBIE
(CALLING OUT) Right here with me, Estrella.

ROCKO TROY ENTERS

ROCKO
(WITH BRAVADO) Hi, Estrella!

ESTRELLA
(STARTLED) Rocko!

ROCKO
The one and only.

ESTRELLA
(RECOVERING HERSELF) What do you have for me today?

ROCKO
(CONSIDERS THE POSSIBILITIES) Everything! For you, Estrella, everything.


CYNTHIA ENTERS


ESTRELLA
(GIVES CYNTHIA A QUICK GLANCE) (TO ROCKO) How much time do you have, Rocko?

ROCKO
Oh! (LOOKS AT HIS WATCH) Well. Well. I only have one more delivery after you. And then?

ESTRELLA
Well, well? And who is the receptionist at that delivery?

ROCKO
It’s at Pet Craft. You know, that place with the boy with the long hair and the falling-down pants.

ESTRELLA
Rocko! How do you know his pants fall down?

ROCKO
(DEMONSTRATING) Because he has to hold them up with one hand all the time. (HE WADDLES AROUND THE RECEPTION AREA WITH ONE HAND GRABBING HIS PANTS.)

ESTRELLA AND CYNTHIA LAUGH.

ESTRELLA
So you’re not putting me off for the boy with the falling-down pants?

ROCKO
I would never put you off, Estrella.

CYNTHIA
Smooth, Rocko.

ESTRELLA
Even if I was far away?

CYNTHIA
(TO ESTRELLA) Is this what you called me in here for?

ESTRELLA
(TO CYNTHIA) No.

ROCKO
(SIGHS) Do you want the invoice first?

ESTRELLA
If you wait until the delivery is done, I’ll get to see you again.

ROCKO EXITS

ESTRELLA
(TO CYNTHIA) So, you have news to share?

CYNTHIA
(IN A RUSH) Armando got a commission in the Hamptons and wants me to come join him there for two months.

ESTRELLA
Two months alone together. It’s wonderful.

CYNTHIA
Two months away from work. Two months away from my dogs. Two months away from home. Two months away from paying the bills.

ESTRELLA
Don’t you have some vacation time?

CYNTHIA
Oh, sure. Six days.

ESTRELLA
Couldn’t you use those days to visit your Armando in the Hamptons?

CYNTHIA
I hadn’t thought about that.

ESTRELLA
Love always finds a way, Querida.

CYNTHIA
But, Estrella, the dogs.

ESTRELLA
You think we wouldn’t take care of your babies?

(BEAT)

ESTRELLA
Over here. Come over here and look with me at the calendar. What days will be best with your Armando?

(CONTINUED)

Welcome Home: SCENE FIVE

INTERIOR TREATMENT AREA — DAY
EMILY AND A. MICHAEL ARE TALKING AS EMILY EXAMINES PAYCHECK.

EMILY
You know, even though Paycheck is big for a greyhound, he just seems about mid-sized to me, after having lunch with O’Howloran. But then, an overweight Labrador Retriever seems mid-sized to me after my Irish Wolfhound.

A. MICHAEL
He still needs more pounds on him.

EMILY
(TO PAYCHECK) You’re not much of an eater, are you, fella? (TO A. MICHAEL) Give me a handful of kibble.

A. MICHAEL
Why?

EMILY
I never met a greyhound who wouldn’t take a treat from your hand. (EMILY HOLDS OUT HER HAND AND PAYCHECK NIBBLES KIBBLES.) That’s my boy. (TO A. MICHAEL) Okay, you can put him back in his crate for now. I’ll have Robbie take him out and walk him through the clinic a couple of times this afternoon so he can start getting his bearings on his new home.

A. MICHAEL
(CLOSING THE DOOR ON PAYCHECK’S CRATE) This afternoon can’t have anything as interesting as I had while you were gone for lunch.

EMILY
Really?

A. MICHAEL
A genuine exotic.

EMILY
As opposed to a fake exotic?

A. MICHAEL
(GLARES AT EMILY)

EMILY
Okay, what did you see?

A. MICHAEL
A chameleon with clear eyes, symmetrical mouth, firm body muscles, and good hydration.

EMILY
So, why was he here? He? She? Could you tell?

A. MICHAEL
(ARCHLY) HE was brought in because HIS owner’s little brother let HIM out of the habitat.

EMILY
And?

A. MICHAEL
And his owner was afraid of poisoned bugs.

EMILY
Really?

A. MICHAEL
Really.

EMILY
So, what happened?

A. MICHAEL
I gave the chameleon a full exam, minus invasive tests, of course. Told the owner to call me at 9:45 tomorrow morning if there are any problems.

(BEAT)

EMILY
Nice job, Doctor. (BEAT) You like exotics?

A. MICHAEL
Oh, yeah. You?

EMILY
Me? Birds. After the dogs and cats.

A. MICHAEL
Well, yeah.



CUT TO:
INTERIOR EXAM ROOM #1 — DAY
ROBBIE IS CLEANING THE EXAMINING TABLE AND THE FLOOR.
CYNTHIA ENTERS CARRYING A BOX OF SAMPLES AND PRODUCTS FOR DOGS, CATS, AND BIRDS.

ROBBIE
Hey, Cyn.

CYNTHIA
Hey, yourself. (SHE BEGINS TO PUT ITEMS FROM THE BOX ONTO THE SHELVES ABOVE THE SINK.)

ROBBIE
Why so glum?

CYNTHIA
Hm? Oh, nothing.

ROBBIE
Is, too, something.

CYNTHIA
(STOPS STOCKING THE SHELVES AND TURNS TO LOOK AT ROBBIE.) How do you know that?

ROBBIE
I don’t know, Cyn. You just don’t have on your happy look.

CYNTHIA
Wow, a girl can’t get a thing past you, can she, Robbie?

ROBBIE
Okay, then. Why so glum?

CYNTHIA
Armando wants me to go to the Hamptons and stay with him and not come home for months.

ROBBIE
Who are the Hamptons?

CYNTHIA
Not who, where. New York.

ROBBIE
You would like New York, Cyn. Don’t they have lots of baseball in New York? And shows and stuff. And shopping. You love shopping, Cyn.

CYNTHIA
It wouldn’t be in New York City. Besides, it would mean being away from here. And what about Gideon and PooDoo? Why hasn’t Armando thought of them? How could I leave our dogs?

ROBBIE
My apartment manager says I can have a dog; so, I could take care of them for you. I could bring them to work everyday, and they would only miss you a little.

CYNTHIA
(GOES BACK TO STOCKING THE SHELVES) It’s just too long. (BEAT) I’d miss THEM, Robbie.

ROBBIE
Yeah. Yeah, you would.



(CONTINUED)

Welcome Home: SCENE FOUR

EXTERIOR FENCED PASTURE BEHIND EMILY’S HOUSE — DAY
EMILY IS WALKING WITH HER IRISH WOLFHOUND O’HOWLORAN.


EMILY
He’s not a bad person, O’Howloran. And he really does love that Clumber Spaniel. (BEAT) What’s not to love, huh? So he loves Churchill, and he’s scared. It is scary, seeing someone you love being miserable and not knowing how to help. (SHE STOPS) Am I walking too fast for you? (RESUMES WALKING WITH O’HOWLORAN AT HER SIDE) He’s just posturing, that’s all. It’s what men do when they’re scared. (BEAT) Women cry. It’s easier. (LOOKS AT HER WATCH) Lunchtime’s over, big boy. Back to the house.



CUT TO:
INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA — DAY
ESTRELLA IS AT THE MAIN DESK.
A FRANTIC TEENAGED BOY ENTERS, PULLING A LITTLE RED WAGON. HELD ONTO THE WAGON WITH BUNGEE CORDS IS A SMALL ANIMAL HABITAT, MEASURING 2’ BY 2’ BY 3’. THE HABITAT IS MADE OF A HEAVY WIRE FRAME, OVER WHICH IS STRETCHED HARDWARE FABRIC OF SMALL MESH. THE BOTTOM OF THE HABITAT IS A 4” DEEP TRAY FILLED WITH SAND. INSIDE THE HABITAT ARE:
A 2’ TALL FICUS TREE IN A POT
A POTHOS VINE, ALSO IN ITS OWN POT
A DISCONNECTED WATERFALL
A SMALL DISH OF ICE CUBES
A VITALITE UV TUBE WIRED TO THE TOP OF THE HABITAT. THE LIGHT’S ELECTRIC CORD IS ATTACHED TO THE HABITAT’S OUTSIDE EDGE WITH A BUNGEE CORD.


ESTRELLA
Who’s this?

WALTER RAVANCZEK
(WHISPERS) Camo.

ESTRELLA
(WHISPERS) Who’s Camo?
WALTER RAVANCZEK
(WHISPERS) My chameleon.

ESTRELLA
(WHISPERS TO THE HABITAT) Hi, Camo. (TO THE KID, STILL WHISPERING) And who are you?

A. MICHAEL ENTERS, STANDING IN THE DOOR FROM THE HALLWAY.


WALTER RAVANCZEK
(WHISPERS) Walter Ravanczek. With a “Z.”

ESTRELLA
(LOOKING AT THE COMPUTER) (WHISPERS) Olga?

WALTER RAVANCZEK
(WHISPERS) Yeah, that’s my mom.

ESTRELLA
(WHISPERS) Why are we whispering?

WALTER RAVANCZEK
(WHISPERS) Because he’s already stressed, and I don’t want to make it any worse.

ESTRELLA
(WHISPERING)Uh-huh.

A. MICHAEL
(VERY SOFTLY) What have we got?

WALTER RAVANCZEK
My chameleon. Camo.

A. MICHAEL
(WHISPERS, TO ESTRELLA) Send him to exam room two. But give me a minute, first.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR EXAM ROOM #2 — DAY
A. MICHAEL IS SITTING ON THE FLOOR, FACING THE DOOR.
WALTER RAVANCZEK ENTERS, PULLING THE HABITAT ON ITS LITTLE RED WAGON.
A. MICHAEL AND WALTER RAVANCZEK WILL SPEAK QUIETLY THROUGHOUT THIS SCENE.

A. MICHAEL
Nice habitat.

WALTER RAVANCZEK
Thanks. I made it.

A. MICHAEL
Nice transport.

WALTER RAVANCZEK
What? The wagon. It’s my kid brother’s. Little rat.

A. MICHAEL
So what’s up with Camo?

WALTER RAVANCZEK
He hasn’t eaten anything today. And I don’t know what he ate last night.

A. MICHAEL
Last night? Why don’t you know what he ate last night?

WALTER RAVANCZEK
Because my stupid little brother let him out of his habitat last night, and I didn’t know it until I found him on Mom’s begonia.

A. MICHAEL
How long was he out?

WALTER RAVANCZEK
(CLOSE TO TEARS) Hours. And he’s not eating this morning. (WALTER OPENS THE DOOR OF THE HABITAT AND PUTS HIS HAND INSIDE. A SMALL, GREEN CHAMELEON CRAWLS OUT OF THE FICA TREE AND ONTO WALTER’S HAND.) Mom uses a pest control guy, and I’m scared Camo ate some poisoned bugs.

A. MICHAEL
(VERY SLOWLY INSERTS HIS OWN HAND INTO THE HABITAT, HOLDING IT JUST BELOW WALTER’S HAND) You don’t need to worry about that. Chameleons won’t eat anyone who’s already dead.

WALTER RAVANCZEK
Right. Right. (HE MOVES HIS HAND SLOWLY, SO THE CHAMELEON STARTS TO MOVE ONTO A. MICHAEL’S HAND.) Hey, look. He likes you.

A. MICHAEL
How about his weight?

WALTER RAVANCZEK
It’s been staying steady. I weigh him on the first and fifteenth of every month.

A. MICHAEL
Yeah? How?

WALTER RAVANCZEK
On my mom’s Weight Watcher’s food scale. It’s really keen. Measures Camo to the tenth of an ounce.

A. MICHAEL
Nice. Did you weigh him when you found him today?

WALTER RAVANCZEK
No. I was so scared I just disconnected everything so I could bring him to you.

A. MICHAEL
(VERY SLOWLY TAKING HIS HAND AND THE CHAMELEON OUT OF THE HABITAT) What had to be disconnected?

WALTER RAVANCZEK
Well, you know. I had to empty the waterfall and get the hose off, and disconnect the Vitalite. Everything else just stays in there.

A. MICHAEL
Okay, Camo, let’s see how you’re doing.

A. MICHAEL PERFORMS EXAM:
(LOOKS INTO CAMO’S EYES) Eyes look good.
(LOOKS IN CAMO’S MOUTH) All symmetrical in there. That’s good.
(PULLS UP A BIT OF SKIN ON CAMO’S BACK) Umm, nice hydration. (TO WALTER) Ice was a good idea.
(EXAMINES CAMO’S TOES AND TOENAILS) Uh-huh.
(VERY GENTLY PALPATES SIDES OF CAMO’S BODY WITH THUMB AND INDEX FINGER) Nice tone. Feels good. You’re a lucky boy, Camo. Walter’s taking really good care of you. (TO WALTER) I think he’s just feeling stressed from his adventure. Take him home, give him back his waterfall and light. If he hasn’t eaten by 9:45 tomorrow morning, call me. There are some tests we can run, but I don’t want to do that unless Camo really needs them.

WALTER RAVANCZEK
You mean he’d have to come in the car again?

A. MICHAEL
No, if we need to do a fecal or blood test, I’ll come to your house. We don’t want to stress Camo any more than we absolutely have to. (A. MICHAEL GENTLY PUTS CAMO BACK INTO THE HABITAT. THE CHAMELEON CRAWLS ONTO THE FICUS TREE. A. MICHAEL CLOSES THE DOOR OF THE HABITAT.)


(CONTINUED)

Welcome Home: SCENE 3

INTERIOR EXAM ROOM #2 — DAY
NO AUDIO
A. MICHAEL IS EXAMINING THE GOLDEN RETRIEVER ELSIE. MRS. LARSON TALKS, AND TALKS, AND TALKS. A. MICHAEL CONTINUES TO EXAMINE ELSIE, SILENTLY.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA — DAY
ESTRELLA STANDS AT THE COUNTER, TALKING WITH GORDON PATRICK TUDOR.
GORDON IS HOLDING A PETITE PAPILLON, ABIGAIL.


GORDON
This is a sweet one. I wish my Tatiana was as easy to groom.

ESTRELLA
She is a little dumpling. Maybe it’s because her mamma is such a dear.

GORDON
I’m a dear. I deserve a dumpling.

ESTRELLA
Gordon, you and I both know you wouldn’t trade your Tatiana for all the dumplings in the world.

GORDON
That’s true. And she is dramatic.

ESTRELLA
(LAUGHS) And where is the surprise in that?

GORDON
(WISTFULLY) Still, this one would be a perfect partner to go to the nursing home with me.

ESTRELLA
It’s kind of sad that no one visits Abigail and her mom. It’s just the two of them in that house.

GORDON
Alone? (BEAT) Like Mr. Dexter and his Moxie?

ESTRELLA
You have ‘that look’ again.

GORDON
Well?

ESTRELLA
Well, I have to say, Querido, you’re right. (HOLDS UP HER LEFT HAND )Here there are two alone, and there, (HOLDS UP HER RIGHT HAND APART FROM HER LEFT) there are two alone. (BEAT) But Abigail is here today, and Moxie was just in for his checkup last week. So they don’t need to see Dr. Em for another six months. And who knows what life can do in six months?

GORDON
Ah, but they come to me for grooming once a month. I think I can arrange things so their appointments happen to be on the same day.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR TREATMENT AREA — DAY
NO AUDIO
EMILY AND ROBBIE ARE WORKING WITH PAYCHCECK THE GREYHOUND. ROBBIE TAKES THE LEASH AND WALKS PAYCHECK IN A SMALL CIRCLE IN THE TREATMENT ROOM. EMILY AND ROBBIE ARE BOTH DELIGHTED AT PAYCHECK’S PROGRESS.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA — DAY
ESTRELLA IS SITTING AT THE MAIN DESK.
MR. AND MRS. LLOYD WYNTER AND THEIR CLUMBER SPANIEL CHURCHILL ENTER.

MR. WYNTER
I’m just saying, I don’t want to have to take a second mortgage on the house.

MRS. WYNTER
Oh, for pete’s sake, Lloyd. We don’t even know what Dr. Em is going to say.

MR. WYNTER
I’m just saying—

ESTRELLA
Mr. and Mrs. Wynter! And Churchill. Dr. Em is ready for you right now.

MR. WYNTER
Listen, Estrella, before we —

ESTRELLA
(TO CHURCHILL) Hi, gorgeous. Would you like a cookie?


CUT TO:
INTERIOR EXAM ROOM #1 — DAY
EMILY IS SITTING ON THE FLOOR WITH CHURCHILL.
MR. AND MRS. WYNTER ARE SITTING IN CHAIRS, WATCHING.
A. MICHAEL IS STANDING BEHIND EMILY, SCOWLING AT MR. WYNTER.



MR. WYNTER
I’m just saying, if it’s going to take a long time for this to work, well, he’s uncomfortable now and we shouldn’t let him suffer like this, so I think —

A. MICHAEL
What you think isn’t going to fix this dog’s—

EMILY
You’re absolutely right, Mr. Wynter. The condition of Churchill’s skin is showing us some pretty extreme allergic reactions. I’d recommend that we take some blood and send it to the dermatologist. She can tell us specifically what Churchill’s allergies are, and what it will take to get your boy’s quality of life back again.

MRS. WYNTER
How long will it take to find out?

MR. WYNTER
How much will it take?

EMILY
Not long. About a week, usually.

MRS. WYNTER
Then let’s go ahead and do it.

MR. WYNTER
How much is it going to cost me?

MRS. WYNTER
(TO MR. WYNTER) That’s not really the point, is it, dear?

MR. WYNTER
(TO MRS WYNTER) I’m just saying there’s no point in spending a lot of money if it can’t be helped.

A. MICHAEL
(TO MR. WYNTER) Oh, is that what you’re saying?

MRS. WYNTER
(TO A. MICHAEL) If you don’t mind, Doctor.
(TO MR. WYNTER) Lloyd, you know you love this dog, and you know you don’t want him to be miserable.

MR. WYNTER
That’s just what I’m saying.

MRS. WYNTER
(TO EMILY) Of course we want to have the tests for Churchill. Today will be perfect.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA – DAY
ESTRELLA IS AT THE MAIN DESK
CYNTHIA IS STANDING IN THE DOORWAY


ESTRELLA
Everything okay with you and Armando?

CYNTHIA
Just ducky.

ESTRELLA
Are those ducks in a row, or ducks amiss?

CYNTHIA
Why is it that men think the world revolves around them and that you can drop everything just because they say so?

ESTRELLA
Drop everything and do what?

CYNTHIA
Fly to the Hamptons! Just like that! Just fly away to the Hamptons. Poof!

ESTRELLA
You know we will always take care of Gideon and PooDoo here.

CYNTHIA
So you think I’m supposed to go off and leave my dogs for two months just because Armando says so?

ESTRELLA
Two months?! (BEAT) What would you do in the Hamptons for two months?

CYNTHIA
Well, Armando will be painting, so I could sit adoringly and watch him, I suppose.

ESTRELLA
What’s wrong with Armando’s studio here?

CYNTHIA
There is not one darned thing wrong with his studio. Except for the fact that it’s over a thousand miles away from his commission.

ESTRELLA
Commission? Armando has a commission? Cynthia! This is good news! Why didn’t you tell me?

CYNTHIA
(BEAT) He did good, Estrella. His New York show was good. He sold paintings, and he got a commission. Imagine. Just like that.

(CONTINUED)

Welcome Home: SCENE 2

INTERIOR MAYFIELD VETERINARY CLINIC RECEPTION AREA — DAY
ESTRELLA IS AT THE MAIN DESK.
CYNTHIA IS SITTING AT THE SIDE DESK.

SOUND OFF: PHONE RINGS

CYNTHIA
Mayfield Veterinary Clinic. This is Cynthia. Can I help you? … Hi, Baby. How’s the Big Apple? How’s my big boy?

ESTRELLA
Ah, Armando, our resident artist. (TO CYNTHIA) Well, how is he?

CYNTHIA
(TURNS HER BACK TO ESTRELLA) Me, too, Baby. (GIGGLES)

ESTRELLA
When does he get home?

CYNTHIA
You sold how many? … More news than that?

CLIENT MRS. LARSON ENTERS WITH HER GOLDEN RETRIEVER ELSIE.

MRS. LARSON
Hi, Estrella! Hi, Cynthia!

CYNTHIA
(WAVES HELLO TO MRS. LARSON AND CONTINUES TALKING ON THE PHONE) Where? … Armando, you’ve got to be kidding—

MRS. LARSON
(TAKES A POSTCARD OUT OF HER PURSE AND HOLDS IT OUT) Elsie’s here for her checkup, right on time.

ESTRELLA
(TO MRS. LARSON, RELUCTANTLY) Of course she is.

CYNTHIA
For how long?

ESTRELLA
(TORN BETWEEN EAVESDROPPING ON CYNTHIA’S PHONE CALL, AND TENDING A CLIENT AND PATIENT) Hello, Mrs. Larson. How is Elsie doing?

MRS. LARSON
Just Great!

CYNTHIA
Oh, no!

MRS. LARSON
(TO CYNTHIA) Of course she is, honey. Just look at that beautiful coat.

ESTRELLA
Oh, no?

MRS. LARSON
Well, Estrella, of course it is. Elsie’s coat is a show-stopper.

ESTRELLA
(FINALLY OUT OF HER CHAIR AND STANDING AT THE COUNTER FACING MRS. LARSON) Yes, it is. So, what does this beautiful girl need today?

MRS. LARSON
(WAVING POSTCARD IN ESTRELLA’S FACE) It’s right here. Her annual checkup, just like you said.

CYNTHIA
How can you even ask me that? You know I can’t.

ESTRELLA
(GIVING UP, TO MRS. LARSON) Okay then. You just bring that beautiful girl right through here and we’ll get you settled in room two.

ESTRELLA, MRS. LARSON AND ELSIE THE GOLDEN RETRIEVER EXIT.

CYNTHIA
I am happy for you, Armando. … Yes I am. A show in New York, and now a big commission. … I know it’s a big deal … Of course I’m happy for you. But I can’t just leave my job and fly off to the Hamptons.

ESTRELLA ENTERS

CYNTHIA
Have you even thought about the dogs? What about Gideon and PooDoo?

ESTRELLA
What is happening?

CYNTHIA
(TO THE PHONE) I can’t talk about it right now, Armando. … I just can’t. … Well, you’re going to have to wait. (HANGS UP THE PHONE)

CYNTHIA EXITS.

ESTRELLA
(TO CYNTHIA’S DISAPPEARING BACK) What is happening?

CLIENT ENTERS CARRYING A SMALL ANIMAL CRATE.

CLIENT
I don’t usually put them both in one crate, but I knew you wouldn’t make us wait.

(CONTINUED)

Welcome Home: SCENE ONE

INTERIOR EMILY’S HOUSE — DAWN
EMILY IS IN HER KITCHEN WITH HER IRISH WOLFHOUND O’HOWLORAN. SHE IS DRESSED FOR WORK. HE IS FOLLOWING HER AROUND.

EMILY
You’re a good boy to eat all your breakfast. Still hungry? (SHE GETS A LARGE DOG BONE OUT OF A CANISTER) Oh, come on. You know the drill. (BEAT) Sit, O’Howloran. (HE SITS. SHE GIVES HIM THE DOG BONE.) Good boy.

EMILY SITS AT THE KITCHEN TABLE AND WATCHES O’HOWLORAN AS HE EATS THE BONE.

EMILY
So, what are your plans for the morning? Chasing squirrels? Guarding hearth and home? Taking a nap? (BEAT) Me? Hmm…. I never know, do I, old fellow?

EMILY GETS UP FROM THE TABLE, TAKES A BACKPACK OFF A HOOK BY THE DOOR. SHE UNLATCHES A JANGLE OF KEYS FROM A LOOP ON THE BACKPACK.

EMILY
See you at lunch, kiddo. Keep the squirrels guessing.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR A. MICHAEL’S APARTMENT — DAWN
A. MICHAEL IS STANDING AT THE COUNTER EATING YOGURT OUT OF THE CARTON. A PRAIRIE DOG SITS ON THE COUNTER WATCHING HIM.

A. MICHAEL
The world famous veterinarian, A. Michael Kendrick, bestows a treat upon the beautiful Sarah Bernhart.

HE PLUCKS A STRAWBERRY OUT OF THE CARTON, PUTS IT IN HIS MOUTH, WORKS IT AROUND HIS MOUTH, TAKES IT OUT OF HIS MOUTH AND PLACES IT ON THE COUNTERTOP.)

A. MICHAEL
Thrilled at his generosity, Sarah Bernhart scurries to the treasure and picks it up with a dainty paw.

THE PRAIRIE DOG SCURRIES TO THE STRAWBERRY AND PICKS IT UP, BRINGS IT TO HER MOUTH AND BEGINS TO EAT IT.

A. MICHAEL
Ah, my beauty, it is time for you to go back to your palace. Do not fret. You will be surrounded by your lackeys, and I, your hero, will return anon.

A. MICHAEL PICKS UP THE PRAIRIE DOG AND HOLDS HER TO HIS CHEST AS HE WALKS TO A BAY WINDOW WHICH IS FILLED WITH LARGE, COMPLEX PRAIRIE DOG HABITATS.

A. MICHAEL
(OPENING THE DOOR TO THE LARGEST HABITAT) Sweet dreams, Sarah. See you tonight.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR ESTRELLA’S HOUSE — DAWN
ESTRELLA IS SITTING ON HER COUCH IN THE LIVING ROOM, SURROUNDED BY CATS.

ESTRELLA
Can you stay out of my magazines today? (TO THE BLACK CAT) Be nice to Paulie. (TO THE CALICO) No tearing up the toilet paper. (TO THE ONE WITHOUT A TAIL) You can sleep on the bed but not under the covers.

ESTRELLA SITS BACK AND RELAXES WITH HER CATS, MANAGING TO PET EACH ONE OF THEM.

ESTRELLA
Keep the mice at bay. I’ll be back by dinnertime.

SHE RISES, GIVES EACH CAT A PARTING PET AND WALKS TO THE FRONT DOOR. SHE PICKS HER PURSE OFF A TABLE, FISHES HER KEYS OUT OF THE PURSE, AND PICKS UP A TRAVELING MUG OF COFFEE. SHE BLOWS A KISS TO THE CATS AND CLOSES THE DOOR BEHIND HER.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR MAYFIELD CLINIC KENNEL AREA — DAY
ROBBIE IS STANDING BESIDE THE KENNELS HOLDING MR. BUN.

ROBBIE
So, Mr. Bun, do you have a big day planned? I brought you fresh celery, with lots of leafy top stuff. How does that sound?

SOUNDS OFF: DOG BARKING

ROBBIE
Sorry, Mr. Bun. I have to take a walk with Leroy or he’s just gonna pop.

ROBBIE GIVES MR. BUN ONE LAST PET AND CUDDLE AND THEN PLACES THE RABBIT IN HIS KENNEL.


(CONTINUED)

Beginnings: SCENE EIGHT

INTERIOR EMILY’S OFFICE — DAY
EMILY IS TYPING ON THE COMPUTER WHILE SHE TALKS WITH STUART, ON THE SPEAKERPHONE. ALL OF STUART’S DIALOGUE IS HEARD VIA SPEAKERPHONE.

EMILY
Do we have our same seats?

STUART
Of course we do. (BEAT) Do you honestly think I’d risk losing OUR SEATS?

EMILY
Just checking.

STUART
Dinner before?

EMILY
Huh? Oh, yeah. Don’t we always?

STUART
Meet you there?

EMILY
Sure.

STUART
Where?

EMILY
Where what?

STUART
Are you on the computer?

(BEAT)

STUART
Emily, are you on the computer while you’re pretending to talk with me?

EMILY
Uh….

STUART
Emily, take your hands off the keyboard

EMILY
It’s not a problem.

STUART
Dr. Mayfield, Stuart here. Take your hands off the keyboard, and turn your chair around.

EMILY
(TAKES HER HANDS OFF THE KEYBOARD) Hi, Stuart.

STUART
Are you still looking at the monitor?

EMILY
(SLOWLY TURNS HER CHAIR AROUND) Nope. (TURNS HER CHAIR BACK TO FACE THE MONITOR)

STUART
So, I’ll meet you there, and you have to tell me where that might be.

EMILY
That new place on Buena Vista.

STUART
Italian? Chinese? Thai?

EMILY
Uh-huh.

STUART
Uh-huh. (BBEAT) How’s the new junior doc working out?

EMILY
Oh, fine.

STUART
Uh-huh. (BRISKLY) Well, I’m glad it worked out. Sure looking forward to “La Boheme” this Saturday after we have Italian or Chinese or Thai.

EMILY
(LOOKS AT THE PHONE) It has NOT ‘worked out’, Stuart McGregor!

STUART
Nice to have you with us, Dr. Em.

EMILY
I can’t say it has worked out. It’s too early to tell. At best it’s just the beginning of a work in progress.

STUART
(BEAT) Is there progress?

EMILY
I think so. Maybe. Come on, Stuart, it’s the beginning of a probationary period.

STUART
Gotcha. You know, I’d be willing to bet that my nephew hasn’t said it, so I’ll say it for both of us. Thank you.

EMILY
Yeah. So. Opera on you, dinner on me?

STUART
Same as always.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR TREATMENT ARENA — DAY
CYNTHIA AND A. MICHAEL ARE STANDING FACE TO FACE.

CYNTHIA
(PLEASED) He is. It’s not a one-man show. He’ll be showing with two other artists.

A. MICHAEL
Are the others Southern folk artists, too?

CYNTHIA
Armando doesn’t DO folk art.

A. MICHAEL
What does he call it?

CYNTHIA
His AGENT calls it post-modern impressionism.

A. MICHAEL
Ri-i-ight. Does he have family in New York?

CYNTHIA
Listen, you pompous son-of-


CUT TO:
INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA — DAY
ESTRELLA IS GETTING HER PURSE OUT OF THE CABINET BESIDE HER DESK.
EMILY AND ROBBIE ARE IN THE CUTOUT TO THE HALLWAY.
AN UNKNOWN MAN RUSHES IN THE DOOR AND PRESENTS HIMSELF AT THE RECEPTION COUNTER.

MAN
(TO ESTRELLA) Are you the one that keeps calling?

ESTRELLA
Give me a clue. You are …??


MAN
Millard Whitehall.

ESTRELLA
I’ve been trying to speak with a Phillip Whitehall.

MAN
Well, Phillip Whitehall is dead.

CYNTHIA AND A. MICHAEL ENTER, LOOKING AROUND THE CORNER AND LISTENING TO THIS CONVERSATION.

ESTRELLA
I’m so sorry for your loss.

MAN
What’s all this about his greyhound?

EMILY
Mr. Whitehall’s greyhound has had a serious injury and requires extensive care.

MAN
Swell. That’s just swell. Like I need one more decision.(BEAT) Listen, why don’t you just put the dog down?

A. MICHAEL
Look, mister —

EMILY
That dog has a chance of full recovery.

MAN
I don’t want him. Just put him down. You can do that, right?

A. MICHAEL
What are you, god?

CYNTHIA
Come with me, doctor.

CYNTHIA PUSHES A. MICHAEL OUT OF THE HALL AND INTO THE TREATMENT ARENA.

ROBBIE
(TO A. MICHAEL AS HE IS REMOVED BY CYNTHIA) God wouldn’t want to hurt that dog.

EMILY
(TO THE MAN) Are you the owner of this dog?

MAN
I wouldn’t have a dog. It was my father’s.

EMILY
Is there anyone in your family who will take responsibility for your father’s dog?

MAN
Lady, nobody’s going to be paying for that dog.

EMILY
I see. In that case, would you be willing to sign the greyhound over to me?

MAN
If I do that, can I just wash my hands of this whole thing?

EMILY
Absolutely.

MAN
Where do I sign?

ESTRELLA
(SLAMS HER PURSE DOWN ON THE DESK, OPENS A DESK DRAWER AND REMOVES A FORM) Right here. Or do you want me to fill it out first?

MAN
(GRABS THE FORM AWAY FROM ESTRELLA, SIGNS HIS NAME, AND STOMPS OUT THE DOOR)

ROBBIE
What’s his name?

ESTRELLA
Not worth mentioning.

ROBBIE
I mean the dog.

EMILY
Well, it looks like that sweet boy’s care is coming out of my paycheck.

ROBBIE
Paycheck, huh?

ESTRELLA
Junior Doctor!

A. MICHAEL ENTERS

ESTRELLA
(TO A MICHAEL) We need a night shift to look after our new puppy.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR HALLWAY — DAY
EMILY AND A. MICHAEL ARE STANDING IN THE HALL AFTER EVERYONE ELSE HAS LEFT THE BUILDING.

EMILY
There’s a cot in the storeroom. Pillow’s on the top shelf, a couple of blankets with it. (BEAT) I appreciate your taking the first shift with our new boy.

A. MICHAEL
He’s a sweet dog.

EMILY
I realize you need a space of your own here. (LOOKS AROUND) I’ve arranged a desk for you. (BEAT) See you in the morning.

CUT TO:
INTERIOR HALLWAY — NIGHT
A. MICHAEL IS SEATED AT A CARDTABLE, WITH HIS LAPTOP ON TOP OF IT. HOBBS THE CAT IS SLEEPING ON TOP OF THE COMPUTER. A. MICHAEL PICKS UP THE CAT AND HOLDS HIM.

END EPISODE TWO: Beginnings

Stay tuned for EPISODE THREE: Welcome Home

Beginnings: SCENE SEVEN

INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA — DAY
CYNTHIA IS AT RECEPTION DESK.
ROBBIE AND ESTRELLA ENTER.
ESTRELLA PUTS HER PURSE IN A CABINET BESIDE THE DESK.

ESTRELLA
We’re back. Thanks for handling the desk. Anything critical?

EMILY ENTERS CARRYING A CHART.

CYNTHIA
No. Actually, it’s been pretty calm. Just the scheduled clients. I even got a little filing done.

ROBBIE
(HANDING HIS BASKET TO EMILY) Dr. Em, does Mr. Bun look tired to you?

EMILY
(TAKES THE BASKET AND CHECKS THE RABBIT) How are you, Mr. Bun? He doesn’t seem stressed. How was the talk?

ROBBIE
(EXCITED) The kids really listened, and some asked questions, and we knew all the answers, and they were even gentle with Peter Bunny. (TO RABBIT) Weren’t they, Mr. Bun?

ESTRELLA
It was great. Linda asked if we could come again next year. Robbie’s a natural with the kids once he forgets he’s in school.

CYNTHIA
Kids and animals recognize a good heart.


INTERIOR TREATMENT ARENA – DAY
ROBBIE IS RETURNING MR. BUN TO HIS CRATE: AN OVERSIZED METAL CAGE LINED WITH A BABY BLANKET. WHEN THE RABBIT IS IN THE CAGE, ROBBIE HOLDS OUT HIS HAND TO HIM.

ROBBIE
Here’s a bit of banana for you, Mr. Bun. (WATCHES AS MR. BUN TAKES THE TIDBIT.) The kids really loved you, Mr. Bun.

GORDON TUDOR PATRICK ENTERS, CARRYING MOXIE.

GORDON
Hi, Robbie. Is Mr. Bun okay? Little guy’s not sick, is he?

ROBBIE
Oh, no. We went to Linda’s school and talked to the kids.

GORDON
You and Mr. Bun went to school?

ROBBIE
And Estrella. And Captain Ahab.

GORDON
A parrot and a rabbit, huh? That must have been some talk.

ROBBIE
Oh, Gordon, Mr. Bun doesn’t talk.

GORDON
Captain Ahab didn’t use any of his bad words, did he?

ROBBIE
Nooo. He only whistled for the kids. (TO THE DOG)
Hi, Moxie. Boy, you sure look pretty.

GORDON
Yes, even in this humidity.

A. MICHAEL ENTERS


ROBBIE
(TO MOXIE) Do you need to go potty, little man?

A. MICHAEL
(TO HIMSELF) What kind of fool can’t even tell the difference between a male and a pregnant female?

GORDON
(TO A. MICHAEL) Really? Here in Florida?

A. MICHAEL
(TO GORDON) Apparently there are all kinds of fools in Florida.

GORDON
(TO A. MICHAEL) Like my daddy says, a dog smells his own tracks first.

A. MICHAEL
(TO GORDON) Is that what passes for southern wisdom?

ROBBIE
(TAKES MOXIE FROM GORDON) Boy, Moxie, I’m sure it’s time for you and me to go outside.

ROBBIE AND MOXIE EXIT

GORDON
(TO A. MICHAEL) You can always tell when a man’s a southern gentleman, because he knows when it’s time to leave. (BEAT) I, for example, must now talk with Estrella about an invoice.

GORDON EXITS

A. MICHAEL
(TO GORDON’S BACK) Coward.



CUT TO:
INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA — DAY
ESTRELLA IS AT THE DESK
GORDON ENTERS


GORDON
You know, that Kendrick fellow is such a twit.

ESTRELLA
Tell me something I don’t know.

GORDON
No, darling you tell me, please, that he is not going to be in our lives forever.

ESTRELLA
Define forever.

GORDON
A week? (BEAT) A month? (BEAT) Oh, please.

ESTRELLA
Or until he bites a dog.

GORDON
Oh, you sweetheart. (HE HANDS HER A PIECE OF PAPER) And speaking of sweethearts, how about saving Mr. Dexter a trip next door, and put this with the clinic invoice?

CUT TO:
EXTERIOR EXERCISE YARD — DAY
ROBBIE AND MOXIE ARE WALKING AROUND AND KEEPING EACH OTHER COMPANY WHILE MOXIE DECIDES WHETHER OR NOT HE IS GOING TO POO.

CUT TO:
INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA — DAY
ESTRELLA IS AT THE DESK, TALKING ON THE PHONE

ESTRELLA
(DIALS A NUMBER ON THE PHONE. LISTENS FOR A MOMENT. HANGS UP.
REDIALS, PHONE BEEPS NUMBERS AS IT REDIALS.
LISTENS A MOMENT. HANGS UP.
REDIALS, PHONE BEEPS NUMBERS AS IT REDIALS.
LISTENS A MOMENT. HANGS UP.
REDIALS, PHONE BEEPS NUMBERS AS IT REDIALS.

ESTRELLA
(TALKING ON THE PHONE) You want a message? I’ll leave you a message. This is Mayfield Veterinary Clinic. Animal Control Services has brought us your beautiful greyhound. He is a very sick boy. You must call us back. Our number is 555-881-9765. (HANGS UP)


(CONTINUED)

Beginnings: SCENE SIX

INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA — DAY
ESTRELLA IS AT HER DESK, TAKING NOTES AS SHE TALKS ON THE PHONE.
CYNTHIA IS AT THE FACING DESK, WORKING ON THE COMPUTER.

ESTRELLA
… My understanding is that this greyhound was adopted from your rescue group … Yes, I have his tattoo numbers right here …

CYNTHIA
Robbie, have you got a minute?

ESTRELLA
No, hon, I have his numbers because he’s right here in our clinic … Brought in this morning by Animal Services … hit by a car … Touch and go, right now … Could you give me the owner listing? Oh, and what is the dog’s name?

ROBBIE ENTERS

CYNTHIA
(TO ROBBIE) How’s our greyhound doing?

ROBBIE
Gosh, I don’t know, Cyn. I can’t see him.

CYNTHIA
He’s just in crate five, Robbie. Haven’t you looked?

ROBBIE
Dr. Kendrick’s got hold of him and I can’t see.

CYNTHIA
What do you mean, “got hold of him?” What’s going on back there?

ROBBIE
Well, the crate door is open and Dr. Kendrick is sitting in there holding the greyhound in his arms.

CYNTHIA
Really?

ESTRELLA
And that phone number? … Thanks, hon. (HANGS UP THE PHONE.)

ROBBIE
Yeah, really. I can’t even see around him.

ESTRELLA
(TO CYNTHIA AND ROBBIE) Well, we have the name of the owner.

CYNTHIA
Have you talked to them?

ESTRELLA
(TO CYNTHIA) Not yet. And right now Robbie and I have to get ready to go. I’ll call ‘em when I get back. (TO ROBBIE) Ready, Querido?

ROBBIE
I’m ready, Estrella, and I started the car and turned on the air conditioning like you told me.

ESTRELLA
Good man. I’ll get Mr. Bun and you get Captain Ahab.

ESTRELLA EXITS
ROBBIE MOVES ACROSS LOBBY TOWARD THE PARROT CAGE.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR EXAM ROOM #1 – DAY
EMILY IS EXAMINING A LONG-HAIRED GREY CAT. CAT’S OWNER IS TALKING, EMILY IS LISTENING. NO AUDIO.


CUT TO:
A. MICHAEL IS IN THE CRATE AREA, HOLDING THE GREYHOUND.

A. MICHAEL
(TO THE GREYHOUND) So the sheriff comes up to the desperado and says, “Reach for the sky, partner. You’re under arrest for desertion. Whaddya mean, who? This boy right here. He hasn’t had enough groceries in a long time, and besides that, his teeth are stinky.” (A. MICHAEL GLANCES OVER HIS SHOULDER TO BE SURE NO ONE IS LISTENING.) “Oh, no you don’t. You keep your hands raised. Don’t you go reaching for your gun. I’m taking care of this boy now. You lost your chance, Mister.”


CUT TO:
INTERIOR EXAM ROOM #1 – DAY
EMILY CONTINUES EXAMINATION OF THE LONG-HAIRED GREY CAT. CAT’S OWNER IS STILL TALKING, EMILY IS STILL LISTENING. NO AUDIO.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA — DAY
CYNTHIA IS WORKING ON THE COMPUTER AT THE MAIN DESK.
CLIENT ENTERS CARRYING A PET CRATE.

CYNTHIA
Well, who’s this?

CLIENT
Herman the Gerbil.

CYNTHIA
(TO THE CRATE) Hi, Herman. (LOOKS HARDER) Where are you, Herm?

CLIENT
It’s Herman, and he’s under the towel.

CYNTHIA
Right. Herman. Has Herman been here before?

CLIENT
Yeah.

CYNTHIA
And he’s here again.

CLIENT
Yeah.

CYNTHIA
And what is your name?

CLIENT
Harvey Johnson.

CYNTHIA
(READING THE COMPUTER SCREEN) Yes, sir, Mr. Johnson. Here you are, and here’s Herman. (TO MR. JOHNSON) So why have you brought Herman to see the doctor today?

CLIENT
My wife says Herman’s too fat.

CYNTHIA
Uh-huh. (BEAT) Well, I’ll tell you what. If you’ll sign in on that sheet, I’ll take you and Herman right around to room two.

CYNTHIA AND CLIENT EXIT

CYNTHIA
(VOICE OFFSTAGE, CALLING SWEETLY) Dr. Kendrick?


CUT TO:
INTERIOR EXAM ROOM #2 — DAY
CLIENT IS WAITING WITH PET CRATE ON TOP OF THE EXAM TABLE
A. MICHAEL ENTERS

A. MICHAEL
Mr. Johnson and (CHECKS CHART) Herman. I’m Dr. Kendrick. Why are you here?

CLIENT
I’m here because my wife says he’s too fat to be healthy.

A. MICHAEL
Well, let’s take a look. (REACHES INTO THE CARRIER.) Aha! There you are. (REMOVES THE GERBIL FROM THE CARRIER AND HOLDS IT IN HIS HAND.) You’re looking pretty bright-eyed.

CLIENT
Not his eyesight my wife’s worried about. Look at that gut, Doc.

A. MICHAEL
Dr. Kendrick.

CLIENT
Whatever.

A. MICHAEL
(EXAMINING THE GERBIL: LIFTS TAIL, PALPATES TUMMY, DOES VISUAL CHECK OF EYES AND TEETH.) (TO CLIENT) Why did you name her Herman?

CLIENT
My daughter named him.

A. MICHAEL
Her.

CLIENT
What?

A. MICHAEL
Your daughter named her. This gerbil is a her. And she’s not fat. She’s pregnant.


(CONTINUED)

Beginnings: SCENE FIVE

INTERIOR EMILY’S OFFICE — DAY
EMILY SITS AT HER DESK, TALKING ON THE PHONE.

EMILY
No, I’m in Clearwater…(WRITES ON A PIECE OF PAPER)Clearwater, Florida… I have a dog with tattoos that identify you as the breeder. Can you give me information about the dog?


CUT TO:
INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA — DAY
ESTRELLA IS AT THE DESK, TALKING ON THE PHONE

ESTRELLA
Well, yes, Moxie’s ready. Teeth are clean and his coat’s ready for his weekly grooming … Just promise you won’t put pink bows on him this time … Can’t, Gordon. Everyone’s tied up … Sure, come on over and get him. It’s been two whole days since we’ve seen you.
(CALLS OUT TO CYNTHIA) Cyn, will you get Moxie ready for Gordon? He’s on his way over.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR EMILY’S OFFICE — DAY
EMILY SITS AT HER DESK, TALKING ON THE PHONE.

EMILY
My understanding is that this dog was handled by your kennel … That’s what the breeder said … Yes, those are the tattoo numbers … Yes, I’ll hold.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA — DAY
ESTRELLA SITS AT THE DESK.
CYNTHIA ENTERS CARRYING MOXIE, A SHELTY

CYNTHIA
We’ve had our little walk and Mr. Moxie is ready to go.

ESTRELLA
(TO MOXIE) Ay, Perrito, can you smile for Estrella? Let me see those pearly whites.

CYNTHIA
He’ll do anything for a treat.

ESTRELLA
Won’t we all?

GORDON TUDOR PATRICK ENTERS

GORDON
Darlings!

CYNTHIA
(LAUGHING AT MOXIE, WHO IS WRIGGLING MADLY IN HER ARMS) Okay, okay! I know you’re excited to see Uncle Gordon.

GORDON
(REACHING TO TAKE MOXIE FROM CYNTHIA) What have you gotten into, Moxie? Just look at that hair!
(TO ESTRELLA AND CYNTHIA) Ladies, you look wonderful.

ESTRELLA
(TO GORDON) New shirt?

GORDON
You wouldn’t believe the sale that White’s is having.

ESTRELLA
Sheets, too?

CYNTHIA
(TO ESTRELLA) Don’t start with me.

GORDON
Obviously I’m missing something delicious.

CYNTHIA
No, you’re not.

ESTRELLA
(TO CYNTHIA) Surely you’re not going to deprive our Gordon of a reason to celebrate.

GORDON
Champagne celebrating?

CYNTHIA
(TO GORDON) Armando is going to show in New York.

GORDON
THE New York? New York City? That New York?

CYNTHIA
One and the same.

GORDON
Darling! When do you leave and what are you wearing to his show?

CYNTHIA
He leaves in three days.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR EMILY’S OFFICE — DAY
EMILY SITS AT HER DESK, TALKING ON THE PHONE.

EMILY
Yes, Clearwater … Florida … Would you give me that number, please?
(SLAMS PHONE DOWN)


CUT TO:
INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA — DAY
ESTRELLA SITS AT THE DESK.
CYNTHIA STANDS AT THE COUNTER. GORDON IS HOLDING MOXIE

EMILY ENTERS, FURIOUS

EMILY
That’s it! I’ve had all the evasion I’m going to stand for. Doesn’t anyone take responsibility any more?

GORDON
You do.

EMILY
(TO GORDON) We have a lost greyhound who’s fighting for his life back there, and not one soul willing to speak up for him.
(BEAT)
Is this Moxie’s grooming day?

GORDON
This is his lucky day.
(BEAT)
(TO EMILY) Is your greyhound going to make it, Doc?

ESTRELLA
(TO EMILY) What’s with the phone calls?

EMILY
I’ve got five numbers and been put on hold seven times.

ESTRELLA
Give me the list.

CUT TO:
INTERIOR CRATE AREA — DAY
A.MICHAEL SITS ON THE FLOOR IN FRONT OF A LARGE STAINLESS STEEL CRATE. HE HOLDS THE GREYHOUND IN HIS ARMS, CAREFUL TO HOLD THE IV LINE OUT OF THE WAY AS HE CRADLES THE DOG.


(CONTINUED)

Beginnings: SCENE FOUR

INT RECEPTION AREA – DAY
ESTRELLA IS SITTING AT THE DESK. EMILY IS STANDING AT THE COUNTER. CYNTHIA IS RETRIEVING FILES.

EMILY
I’m concerned about Mr. Dexter. I don’t think his Moxie is going to be with us much longer, and you know what Moxie means to him, especially since Mrs. Dexter died.

ESTRELLA
Maybe Moxie should get a little brother.

EMILY
Did you see the way Moxie looked at little Abigail? Whatever it is Moxie wants isn’t going to be fulfilled by a little brother.

ESTRELLA
I think Moxie’s memories outshine his abilities.

EMILY
Don’t they all?

EMILY EXITS
PHONE RINGS

ESTRELLA
(ANSWERING PHONE) Mayfield Veterinary Clinic … Ay, muchacho! I hear congratulations are in order! Will you still be speaking to us when you’re rich and famous? … A gallery in New York is no small potatoes, Armando. Your sweetie’s been bragging on you …

(MOTIONS TO CYNTHIA TO PICKUP THE PHONE. HANGS UP WHEN CYNTHIA PICKS UP.)

CYNTHIA
(ON THE PHONE) Hi, baby. What’s happening? … Which paintings do you have to send? … Is that one finished? … (LAUGHS) You can do it, Mando … Anything, baby, what do you want me to do for you? … Mando, don’t ask me that. You know I can’t …

EMILY AND A. MICHAEL ENTER

ESTRELLA
(TO EMILY) If this was any of my business, I would remind her to be gentle.

CYNTHIA
(TO ESTRELLA) Do you mind?

ESTRELLA
(TO EMILY) In my vast experiences I have repeatedly learned that a man with the soul of an artist has the tender heart of a child.

CYNTHIA
(TO PHONE) Mando, I already told you … Why are we talking about this over the phone? This is something we celebrate with wine and talk about in the
moonlight … No, no, you stay home and paint. I’ll bring the wine … (SOFTLY) Me, too, baby. (HANGS UP)

ESTRELLA
Wine and moonlight are good.

EMILY
Wine and moonlight are always good.

ESTRELLA
And crisp, clean sheets.

EMILY
What sheets? An old quilt thrown on the ground under the stars.

A. MICHAEL
That’s disgusting. Women your age should know better.

ESTRELLA
Women our age do know better.

EMILY
(TO A. MICHAEL) Didn’t you ever wonder about the phrase, “Mother knows best”?

ESTRELLA
If mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.

A. MICHAEL
That isn’t what it means!

ESTRELLA
(TO EMILY) Did this little boy grow up in a Petri dish?

EMILY
What makes you think he’s grown up?

(CONTINUED)

Beginnings: SCENE THREE

EMILY’S OFFICE INTERIOR — DAY
EMILY SITS AT HER DESK. A. MICHAEL SITS IN THE CHAIR OPPOSITE HER.

A. MICHAEL
So, I guess the only question is how much you’re going to pay me.

EMILY
Oh, no. There are lots of questions before we get anywhere near that one.

A. MICHAEL
Such as? You know I graduated at the top of my class.

EMILY
Such as, what can you bring to this clinic? What have you got that will make this a better place for our clients?

A. MICHAEL
I do know the most current technology.

EMILY
Oh, even oldsters like me find time to read the journals. I manage to keep up.

A. MICHAEL
Oh, really? And what about that receptionist? You have a woman out there who doesn’t give you the respect you’re due and treats the other help like children. You shouldn’t let her get away with that.

EMILY
Who do you think you are to … no, let me rephrase that. What can you add to the clinic?

A. MICHAEL
I could bring some order. That woman acts as though she runs this place.

EMILY
Oh, she does. That’s her job. My job is to heal. What do you think yours would be? What could you add to our family?

A. MICHAEL
Family? Why would I care about family?

EMILY
Family is the only reason you’re here. You wouldn’t be sitting in this office right now if it weren’t for your Uncle Stuart.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR TREATMENT ARENA – DAY
ROBBIE IS HOLDING HIS RABBIT.


ROBBIE

(TO PETER BUNNY) There’s going to be a room full of kids, Mr. Bun. And there’ll be a teacher, but the teacher is Linda, Mr. Bun, so you don’t have to be afraid. What if I say something wrong? I’ll be letting Dr. Em down. Estrella will be disappointed in me. I just can’t remember all the words. Estrella says it’ll be easy, but she doesn’t forget words. Do you want to do the talking?

CYNTHIA AND A. MICHAEL ENTER.
A. MICHAEL
It’s Dr. Dolittle talking to the animals.

CYNTHIA
It’s Robbie talking to his rabbit. And I don’t want to hear anything from you about Robbie. He may not have your education and your skills, doctor, but, Robbie has a magical touch with the animals. You will not put him down.


CUT TO:
CLINIC RECEPTION AREA INTERIOR— DAY
EMILY AND ESTRELLA ARE AT RECEPTION AREA LOOKING AT SCHEDULING BOOK. ROBBIE IS CLEANING THE CAGE OF THE PARROT CAPTAIN AHAB.

EMILY
Who’s on for surgery today?

ESTRELLA
Zeke’s neuter, Malfeasance’s cherry eye, Jackson’s neuter, Abigail spay.

EMILY
Teeth?

ESTRELLA
Three cats, four dogs. Oh, and A. Michael.

EMILY
A.Michael?

ESTRELLA
You’ve got the anesthesia, a break between 1:30 and 1:45. It’s as good a time as any for a neuter.

EMILY
Who’s bringing him in?

EMILY EXITS.

ROBBIE
There you go, Captain, nice and clean and tidy and ready for you to make your mess. Now be nice, Captain, and don’t say anything ugly to the children.

ESTRELLA
What are we going to say to the children, Robbie?

ROBBIE
I don’t know.

ESTRELLA
Well then, who’s going to talk first?

ROBBIE
You start.

ESTRELLA
Okay, I’ll start it off. I’ll introduce us, then what do you want to say?

ROBBIE
I don’t want to say anything. I’ll just go with you and carry stuff.

ESTRELLA
You go with me, you talk.

ROBBIE
Okay, I won’t go.

ESTRELLA
I need you to carry stuff.

ROBBIE
How about Cynthia going? She’s strong.

ESTRELLA
Cynthia isn’t as strong as you.

ROBBIE

But she likes to talk.

ESTRELLA
I’ll make you a deal. You come over to my house tonight. I’ll fix some barbecue.

ROBBIE
I don’t know, Estrella.

ESTRELLA
With ice cream for dessert.

ROBBIE
What time?


(CONTINUED)

Beginnings: SCENE TWO

EXTERIOR CLINIC PARKING LOT — DAY

A PET FOOD DELIVERY TRUCK DRIVES INTO THE CLINIC PARKING LOT. THE DRIVER’S DOOR OPENS. (BEAT) ROCKO TROY STEPS OUT OF THE DRIVER’S SEAT TO STAND ON THE RUNNING BOARD. HE LOOKS AT HIMSELF IN THE BIG REAR-VIEW MIRROR: SMOOTHES HIS HAIR, ADJUSTS HIS SHIRT COLLAR, SMILES THEATRICALLY AT HIS REFLECTION AND TAKES A DEEP BREATH. THEN HE STEPS DOWN, CLOSES THE DOOR AND STRUTS TO THE BACK OF THE TRUCK TO RAISE ITS BACK DOOR — NOT AN EASY TASK FOR 5’4”, 125-POUND ROCKO TROY.

CUT TO:
CLINIC LOBBY INTERIOR — DAY
ESTRELLA SITS AT THE RECEPTION DESK.
CYNTHIA ENTERS

ESTRELLA
(MUTTERS TO HERSELF IN SPANISH)

CYNTHIA
Did I miss something?

ESTRELLA
Guess who’s giving a vet talk to Linda’s second graders?

CYNTHIA
Dr. Em.

ESTRELLA
Not exactly.

CYNTHIA
Not HIM?!

ESTRELLA
It’s not that bad. It’s Robbie and me. What would Dr. Em say to second graders?

CYNTHIA
You’re not Dr. Em. What would you say to them? What do you say to your nieces and nephews?

ESTRELLA
No more than one cat per lap, and no squeezing.

ROCKO TROY ENTERS

ROCKO
No squeezing who?

ESTRELLA
Who did you have in mind, big boy?

ROCKO
(IMPULSIVELY) Estrella, you’re always in my mind!

CYNTHIA
I’m outa here.

CYNTHIA EXITS

ESTRELLA
Rocko, what do you have in mind for me?

ROCKO
(HORRIFIED AT HIS OWN OUTSPOKENNESS) Uh, well, I mean, Cynthia didn’t have to, well, I didn’t really mean, uh, I have your order!

ESTRELLA
You’re taking orders from me, Rocko?

ROCKO
(BUMBLING WITH PAPERWORK) Well, sure, right here, Estrella, I have your order. Three hundred pounds of high protein, three hundred pounds of puppy, two-forty of lite, and two hundred for the senior pet.

ESTRELLA
How could I ever be your pet if you keep on calling me a senior?

ROCKO
You’d be my pet?
ROBBIE ENTERS

ROBBIE
Hi, Rocko.

ROCKO
Estrella?

ROBBIE
I’m Robbie, Rocko. That’s Estrella.

ROCKO
(GATHERING HIMSELF) Hi, Robbie.

ROBBIE
Need some help with the bags?

ESTRELLA
Say it and you’re a dead man, Rocko.

ROCKO
Oh, Estrella, I just wanted you to sign the invoice.

ESTRELLA
(TO ROBBIE) Don’t go far, Querido, we have a speech to do for the children.

ROBBIE
(TO ROCKO) How do you talk to second graders?

ROCKO
How do you get Estrella to call you ‘Dear One’?

ROBBIE
What else would she call me?


(CONTINUED)

Beginnings: SCENE ONE

MAYFIELD VETERINARY CLINIC INTERIOR LOBBY — DAY
ESTRELLA IS SITTING AT THE DESK IN THE RECEPTIONIST’S AREA HOLDING THE PHONE TO HER EAR. SHE HANGS UP THE PHONE AND CALLS OUT.

ESTRELLA
Robbie! Front door! Officer Trumbull, emergency!

ROBBIE ENTERS, RUNNING THROUGH LOBBY AND TO THE FRONT DOOR. HE HOLDS THE DOOR OPEN.

SOUNDS OFF: CAR PULLS TO A STOP. CAR DOOR SLAMS. SECOND CAR DOOR SLAMS.

ANIMAL SERVICES OFFICER SCOTT TRUMBULL ENTERS THROUGH THE FRONT DOOR CARRYING AN EMACIATED, LIMP GREYHOUND.

ESTRELLA
(TO SCOTT) Straight on back, and I’ll get Dr. Em.

SCOTT TRUMBULL AND ROBBIE EXIT

ESTRELLA
(ON INTERCOM) Dr. Em, Scott’s here with an emergency.


CUT TO:
EXAMINING ROOM #2
EMILY IS EXAMINING A VERY SMALL MIXED BREED DOG AS A. MICHAEL STANDS BEHIND HER AND OBSERVES IMPATIENTLY.

EMILY
(TO A. MICHAEL) Dr. Kendrick, give Rapunzel her rabies shot. And then express her anal glands.
(TO DOG’S OWNER) Mr. Harvey, excuse me.

EMILY EXITS

CUT TO:
INTERIOR TREATMENT ARENA— DAY
EMILY ENTERS AT A RUN

EMILY
Cynthia! Get a line started on this guy.

EMILY BEGINS EXAMINING THE GREYHOUND.

EMILY
(TO SCOTT) What’s the story here, Scott?

CYNTHIA ENTERS, BEGINS ASSEMBLING EQUIPMENT AND SALINE BAG

SCOTT
Running in the wrong neighborhood. Driver called on his cell phone. Really upset. The dog was running in the yards and dashed into the street right in front of the caller’s car. Guy thinks he might have grazed him.

EMILY
No obvious broken bones.

ROBBIE
Dr. Em?

EMILY
(TO HERSELF) Too skinny. Even for a track dog.
(BEAT)
Pulse, slow. Gums, pale.
(TO ROBBIE) Robbie, start getting a blanket warm for this big guy.
(TO CYNTHIA) Cyn, let’s get him in for x-rays. Now.

SCOTT
Let me carry him.


(CONTINUED)

Family Plus One: SCENE EIGHT

INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA – DAY
EMILY STANDS IN THE HALLWAY DOOR.
ESTRELLA SITS AT THE RECEPTION DESK.

EMILY
Did we see every dog in the county today?

ESTRELLA
No, just the odd-numbered ones.

INTERIOR TREATMENT ARENA – DAY
CYNTHIA IS HOLDING JESTER. ROBBIE IS CLEANING.

ROBBIE
Boy, Linda’s going to be glad to get this kitty home.

CYNTHIA
I thought Jester was a rescue.

ROBBIE
She is, and Linda hasn’t even seen her since she picked her up from the side of the highway.

EMILY AND A. MICHAEL ENTER.

CYNTHIA
(TO JESTER) Jester, you are one lucky kitty.

EMILY
Because Linda brought her in to the clinic?

ROBBIE
Oh, no, Dr. Em, Mom brought Jester to the clinic.

EMILY
You’re right, Robbie. Jester is one lucky girl to have your sister and your mother on her side.

EMILY TAKES JESTER FROM CYNTHIA

CYNTHIA
So Jester will go home with Linda today?

A. MICHAEL
Certainly not!

ALL STARE AT A. MICHAEL

A. MICHAEL
This cat is in no condition to be turned loose in a regular home environment.

ROBBIE
Linda’s house isn’t regular, doctor. It’s full of cats.

A. MICHAEL
All the more reason to keep Jester here until she’s completely recovered.

ROBBIE
But Linda’s been waiting …

EMILY
(TO CYNTHIA) Could you give Robbie a hand with that supply inventory?

CYNTHIA
Yeah! Sure thing. (TAKES ROBBIE BY THE ARM AND LEADS HIM AWAY)Come with me, Robbie, my man, it’s inventory time.

ROBBIE
I thought the computer kept track of inventory.

CYNTHIA
Yeah, well this is sort of off the record.

CYNTHIA AND ROBBIE EXIT.

EMILY
(TO A. MICHAEL) Besides being Robbie’s sister, Linda Hightower happens to be one of the most responsible, caring, knowledgeable clients this clinic has ever had the pleasure to work with. She has personally rescued more animals than you treated in your entire series of rotations.
A. MICHAEL
But this cat needs …

EMILY
And she has every animal examined, inoculated, and neutered before she even begins to look for a home for them.

A. MICHAEL
But Jester’s got —

EMILY
So if you think for one minute that you can stand in this clinic and pass judgment on the people who are putting up their time and money —

A. MICHAEL
But —

EMILY
… and love to make life better for these less fortunate ones, you can leave right now, doctor, and don’t let the door hit you on your way out.

A. MICHAEL
(TAKING JESTER FROM EMILY) You be a good girl, Miss Jester. You’re going to have to take thyroid pills, twice a day, for the rest of your life. I know you’re not going to like it, but you have to do it, okay?

EMILY
Unless you think you could actually start putting your lips together and keep them that way.

A.MICHAEL
She needs some time to build up her strength before she undergoes a spay. (BEAT) That would be my recommendation.

EMILY
I agree, doctor. In this case, the patient has nothing to lose and everything to gain if we follow a conservative line of treatment.

A. MICHAEL
(HANDS JESTER TO EMILY) She deserves the chance.

EMILY
Six months.

A. MICHAEL
It won’t take her that long. A few weeks, at most.

EMILY
I’m talking about you, doctor. Six months probationary hire. But you do one thing to endanger one of my patients and you’ll be the one on the emergency table, understand?

A. MICHAEL AFFECTS AN ATTITUDE AND STARTS TO SPEAK.

EMILY
Don’t say it. Don’t even think about saying it. I can read body language. Nod your head for yes, shake your head for no. I’ll get the message.

A. MICHAEL SLOWLY NODS HIS HEAD.

EMILY
Six months.

A. MICHAEL NODS HIS HEAD.

EMILY
Probationary.

A. MICHAEL NODS ONCE.

EMILY STEPS TO THE HALLWAY DOOR.

EMILY
(CALLING TO ESTRELLA) Estrella, get Linda on the phone for me. And open an employee file for Dr. Kendrick.
(BEAT)
Temporary.


END EPISODE ONE: Family Plus One

(Stay tuned for EPISODE TWO: Beginnings)

Family Plus One: SCENE SEVEN

INTERIOR TREATMENT ARENA - DAY
CYNTHIA IS LOOKING AT JESTER WHO IS IN A TREATMENT RECOVERY CRATE WITH A SUNLAMP. A. MICHAEL IS LOOKING AT CAT INNARDS’ X-RAYS.

A. MICHAEL
How’s her appetite?

CYNTHIA
Appetite’s fine. She eats everything we give her. But nothing stays down.

A. MICHAEL
(TO HIMSELF) Appetite’s good, she just can’t keep it down …

CYNTHIA
We need to hydrate her. Doctor? She’s becoming dehydrated. An IV, doctor? Subcutaneous fluids? Maybe both?

A. MICHAEL
Nothing here. No loops, no obstruction—

CYNTHIA
You’re right. There is a better solution. Cynthia brains the doctor with the chart and Miss Jester laughs herself well.

A. MICHAEL
No foreign bodies. No anomalies.

CYNTHIA
Except the doctor.

EMILY ENTERS, HANDS PRINTOUT OF BLOOD WORK REPORT TO A. MICHAEL

EMILY
(TO CYNTHIA) What about the doctor?

CYNTHIA
Does the doctor have any instructions regarding the treatment of a dehydrated kitty?

EMILY
(TO A. MICHAEL) Talk to me.

A. MICHAEL
Normal … normal … liver enzyme slightly elevated … Glucose! … (SURPRISED, DISAPPOINTED) normal.

EMILY
So?

A. MICHAEL
She’s young to have diabetes, but it could have —

EMILY
Could have, but isn’t.

EMILY TAKES JESTER OUT OF HER CRATE, HOLDS HER WITH ONE HAND CRADLING JESTER’S FACE

EMILY
You have anything else to say?

A. MICHAEL TAKES JESTER FROM EMILY, STROKES THE CAT

A. MICHAEL
Full blood panel, with a T-4.IV for subcutaneous fluids.

EMILY
Would you like to stay around the rest of the week to see how she does?

MICHAEL
Well, I planned to spend this afternoon finding an apartment.

EMILY
I’m not inviting you to move here. I’m asking if you want to stay until Friday.

CYNTHIA
Every day until Friday?

EMILY
I think so.

CYNTHIA
Every single day?

ESTRELLA ENTERS.

EMILY
It’ll give us a little time to get to know each other. Perhaps, Dr. Kendrick can impress us with his crate side manner.

CYNTHIA
Not to mention his conversational skills.

ESTRELLA
(TO CYNTHIA) Is she saying what I’m afraid she’s saying?

CYNTHIA
‘Fraid so.

A. MICHAEL
Just this week? (BEAT) I still need a place to stay.

EMILY
There’s a Motel 6 a few blocks down. I expect you to be here every morning at 7:30 and be ready to treat by eight. Surgery on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Any questions?

ESTRELLA
Yes. Does this mean that the neutering is still on for Wednesday?


(CONTINUED)

Family Plus One: SCENE SIX

INTERIOR EXAM ROOM #2 – DAY
EMILY STANDS BESIDE THE EXAM TABLE.
CLIENT, NOREEN, STANDS ON THE FAR SIDE OF THE TABLE, PETTING A PERSIAN CAT.

EMILY
(TO NOREEN, A 16 YEAR OLD) (EMILY REACHES OVER AND PETS THE CAT ON THE HEAD) Brush her a few minutes every day. Make it your special time with her, and she’ll enjoy the attention. Remember the mats hurt her. You know how much prettier you feel when your hair is combed? Phaedra feels that way, too. Brush this darling every day and you’ll also see fewer hairballs. (TO CAT) Phaedra doesn’t like those old hairballs, does she?

NOREEN
Well, I know I don’t like cleaning up after them.

EMILY
Of course not.


INT TREATMENT ARENA - DAY
EMILY ENTERS FROM EXAM ROOM #2, SEES A. MICHAEL WITH JESTER. ROBBIE STANDS NEARBY WATCHING AS A. MICHAEL PALPATES JESTER.
EMILY APPROACHES QUIETLY SO A. MICHAEL DOESN’T KNOW SHE’S THERE.

A. MICHAEL
How does that feel, little girl? Does
this hurt?

ROBBIE
Jester.

A. MICHAEL
Why are you so still and quiet, Miss Jester?

EMILY
(TO A. MICHAEL) Problem?

A. MICHAEL
All the standards check out okay, but something just doesn’t feel right to me.

EMILY
Talk to me.

A. MICHAEL
Vomiting, but that could be stress. Heart, lungs, eyes clear. Mouth clean, teeth okay; could stand to be cleaned, but they’re not too bad. Lymph nodes normal, no ear mites.

EMILY
Internal?

A. MICHAEL
No lumps, bumps or stones. Liver normal.

EMILY
Tests?

A. MICHAEL
(GLANCES AT CHART LYING ON COUNTER) Feline leukemia negative, feline AIDS negative, fecal … roundworms, no surprise there. Not sufficient to produce this kind of lethargy. I need x-rays and blood panel.

EMILY
Do you?

(BEAT)

A. MICHAEL
X-rays and blood work would be my recommendation for Jester.

CUT TO:
INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA – DAY
ESTRELLA SITS AT THE MAIN RECEPTION DESK. CYNTHIA SITS AT THE ADJACENT “L” DESK.

ESTRELLA
(TALKING ON PHONE) Well, you have two choices. You can either put a new screen on that window or teach Murphy to use a parachute … He’s resting just fine, honey, I’ll let you talk to Cynthia.


CUT TO:
INTERIOR TREATMENT ARENA – DAY

CYNTHIA
(PICKS UP PHONE) Hello, Mrs. Saunders. Your boy’s going to be fine … no, it’s not broken, but it will have to be bandaged for a while. … Oh, no, it’s not nearly as severe as Murphy’s last one … Now, Mrs. Saunders, we don’t like to call anyone accident prone. Murphy’s just going through an awkward stage … Any time after 3:30 will be just fine. (HANGS UP)

(TO ROBBIE) Is she keeping anything down yet?

ROBBIE
(HOLDING JESTER) She eats a lot, but nothing stays down.

CYNTHIA
Throwing up?

ROBBIE
Yeah.

CYNTHIA
How about chicken noodle soup?

ROBBIE
No, I’ve already had lunch, thanks.

CYNTHIA
I mean for Jester.

ROBBIE
Cyn, you see anything in Jester’s blood?

CYNTHIA
It’ll take a while for the analysis to run. You’ll have to ask Dr. Em, Robbie.


(CONTINUED)

Family Plus One: SCENE FIVE

CLINIC INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA – DAY
ESTRELLA IS ON THE PHONE.

ESTRELLA
Thursday afternoon? 2:30 or 3:30?

CYNTHIA AND CLIENT, MR. RODRIGUEZ, AND HIS COMPANION, A CHIHUAHUA, WAIT AT THE COUNTER TO GET INSTRUCTIONS FROM ESTRELLA

ESTRELLA

(TO CYNTHIA) Take Mr. Rodriguez and Spitfire to exam room 1.

CYNTHIA

Mr. Holdveg and Helga are in room 1.

ESTRELLA

You’re right! How about 2?

CYNTHIA AND MR. RODRIGUEZ EXIT. THIRD CLIENT SITS IN A CHAIR IN THE WAITING ROOM, A SMALL PET CARRIER ON THE FLOOR BESIDE HER. FOURTH CLIENT AND PET ARE AT DESK SIGNING IN.

INTERIOR EXAM ROOM #1 - DAY
EMILY AND A. MICHAEL ENTER.

EMILY

Good morning, Mr. Holdveg, how are you this morning?

MR. HOLDVEG

I’m fine, Dr. Em, fine.

EMILY

And how is our girl today? (SHE TAKES THE DOG’S FACE IN HER HANDS AND TALKS GENTLY TO THE DOG.) Good morning, Helga, how are you feeling today? Are you doing all right? Why did you bring your dad in to see us today, Helga?

A. MICHAEL

(UNDER HIS BREATH) You’ve got to be kidding.

MR. HOLDVEG

She’s wonderful. Wonderful. Aren’t you, my Helga girl? We just need some s-h-o-t-s, Dr. Em. She hates them so bad, I don’t want her to hear the word.

EMILY

(TO HELGA) Checkup time, little girl?

EMILY GIVES HELGA EXAM-STETHOSCOPE ON CHEST, CHECKS EYES, EARS, PALPATES STOMACH

MR. HOLDVEG

(TALKS CONSTANTLY AS EMILY IS EXAMINING HELGA) She hasn’t been liking the dry food so much, so I have to supplement. I don’t give her the fried foods, just the healthy ones. Lots of vegetables. Mashed potatoes, green beans with ham, creamed corn. Cornbread. She’s not much for salads. Won’t touch them.

A. MICHAEL

You know about salads?

MR. HOLDVEG

And a little ice cream for dessert. (QUICKLY) Not too much! I know how you feel about her weight! (LAUGHS)

A. MICHAEL

Yours or hers?


EMILY ABRUPTLY QUITS EXAMINING HELGA, TAKES A. MICHAEL BY THE ARM, SHOVES HIM OUT OF THE ROOM AND SHUTS THE DOOR IN HIS FACE.

EMILY

How are your walks together going, Mr. Holdveg?



CUT TO:
INTERIOR HALL - DAY
A. MICHAEL SEES ROBBIE AND JESTER

ROBBIE

(TO JESTER) You are so quiet. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a little girl as quiet as you. (TO A. MICHAEL)
This is Jester.

A MICHAEL TAKES THE CAT

CUT TO:
INTERIOR TREATMENT ROOM — DAY
ROBBIE AND A. MICHAEL ENTER.
CYNTHIA IS PLACING CAT LEG X-RAYS ON THE LIGHT PANELS.

A. MICHAEL

(SURPRISED, CONDESCENDING) Nice pictures.

CYNTHIA

I know my job.

A. MICHAEL

Trade school?

CYNTHIA

Georgetown University, Political Science, cum laude.

A. MICHAEL

Obviously good training for working with animals.

CYNTHIA

Of all kinds, doctor.


CYNTHIA EXITS.



(CONTINUED)

Family Plus One: SCENE FOUR

INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA — DAY
ESTRELLA IS WORKING ON THE COMPUTER WHILE SHE TALKS WITH EDNA.
ROBBIE ENTERS

ROBBIE

(TO EDNA) Cyn says Jester’s a sweet little girl.

EDNA

Did Cynthia say how old she is?

ROBBIE

Mom,I would never ask Cynthia how old she is.

ESTRELLA

Did Cynthia say how old little Jester is?

ROBBIE

She said about two years old. Probably.

ESTRELLA

(CHECKING RECORDS ON THE COMPUTER) I’ll just add Jester to Linda’s file.

ROBBIE
How many does this make?

EDNA
Robbie, we never ask Linda how many cats she has. (TO ESTRELLA) Is Emily busy, hon? I need to ask her something.

ESTRELLA
Trust me, Edna, you don’t want to talk to Emily right now.

ROBBIE
I don’t think you could, Mom. There’s some guy in her office who won’t let anyone talk but him.

EDNA

Estrella?

ESTRELLA

Interview for a new-hire.

CUT TO:
INTERIOR TREATMENT ARENA –DAY
CYNTHIA CRADLES JESTER IN ONE ARM AS SHE TALKS ON THE PHONE

CYNTHIA

That’s wonderful! Do you have to be there? … When do you have to leave? … What? How can you do that? How can you get ready by then? … Well, how long will you have to be there? … WHAT? … Of course it’s wonderful … I know it’s what you’ve been working for … No, baby, that’s not what I meant. I’ll just miss you, that’s all … No, Armando, I can’t … You know I can’t. … Mando, I’ve got to take care of this kitten right now … Love you, too, baby.

CYNTHIA ENTERS THE RECEPTION AREA, STILL HOLDING JESTER.

CYNTHIA

Estrella! Armando’s going to have his work exhibited in a New York gallery!

ROBBIE

But he’s not in New York, Cyn.

CYNTHIA

No, but his agent is. And Armando will be, too, this time next week. Hi, Edna.

EDNA
(TO CYNTHIA) Hello, dear. (TO ESTRELLA) Estrella, I really need to talk to Dr. Em. I told Linda that Emily would talk to her second graders a week from Friday.

CYNTHIA

Above my pay grade. I’m outa here.

CYNTHIA EXITS

ESTRELLA

Let me check her calendar. Next Friday’s really full.

EDNA

But this is Be Kind To Animals Week. Linda’s counting on it.

ESTRELLA

(ON THE INTERCOM) Dr. Em, could you come out here for a minute?

EMILY

(VOICE OVER THE INTERCOM) NO.

ESTRELLA

(TO EDNA) She has had that guy in there forever. It can’t be pretty.

EMILY

(VOICE OVER THE INTERCOM) Whatever it is, Estrella, you’ve got to take care of it.

EDNA

Dr. Em! You’re scheduled to talk to Linda’s second graders on Friday.

EMILY

(VOICE OVER THE INTERCOM) Edna? Is this some special favor?

ESTRELLA

Robbie and I are doing a favor.

EDNA

What?

ESTRELLA

Robbie and I are giving a talk to Linda’s second graders!

EMILY

(VOICE OVER THE INTERCOM) So this has nothing to do with me?

ESTRELLA

Right. Nothing. Nope. Not you. I don’t know why I even bothered you.

EMILY

(VOICE OVER THE INTERCOM) It’s okay. It’s all right. (PAUSE) Bye, Edna.

CUT TO:
INTERIOR EMILY’S OFFICE — DAY
EMILY IS STANDING AT THE DOOR TO THE PARKING LOT, HOLDING THE DOOR OPEN. A. MICHAEL STANDS AT THE PHOTO WALL.


A. MICHAEL
But Uncle Stuart said —

EMILY
I have patients waiting.

A. MICHAEL
Exactly. That’s why I’m here.

EMILY
What?!

A. MICHAEL
Okay, Uncle Stuart said you’re looking for a vet to bring into the practice.

EMILY
And what exactly does that have to do with you?

A MICHAEL
Dr. Mayfield, I am a licensed veterinarian.

EMILY
A. Michael, you are the nephew of my best friend and I’ll admit you’re a smart kid, but —

A MICHAEL
I was a smart kid. I am now a skilled veterinarian.

EMILY
No! You’re not a veterinarian. You’re a kid fresh out of school who hasn't the faintest idea of what a vet's practice requires.

OFFSTAGE: KNOCK ON EMILY’S INTERIOR OFFICE DOOR
ESTRELLA OPENS THE DOOR TO THE INTERIOR HALLWAY AND PEEKS IN.

ESTRELLA
Sorry to interrupt, Dr. Em, but we’ve got appointments backing up out here.

A. MICHAEL

It requires knowledge and skill.

ESTRELLA EXITS AND CLOSES THE DOOR.

EMILY
It requires compassion and patience. It requires experience.

A. MICHAEL
Yeah, well, I have those too.

EMILY
Experience, no, I don’t think so. Compassion and patience? Do you?

EMILY SLAMS THE DOOR TO THE EXTERIOR PARKING LOT. SHE WALKS ACROSS HER OFFICE AND EXITS INTO THE CLINIC HALLWAY.

EMILY

Follow me.


(CONTINUED)
 

Family Plus One: SCENE THREE

MAYFIELD VETERINARY CLINIC INTERIOR EMILY’S OFFICE – DAY
EMILY IS DRAGGING A. MICHAEL INTO HER OFFICE TO GET HIM OUT OF THE LOBBY AND AWAY FROM HER STAFF.

EMILY
Give me three good reasons I shouldn’t let Estrella have you neutered on Wednesday.

A. MICHAEL
Do you know how long I’ve been waiting to talk to you?

EMILY KNOCKS A STACK OF PAPERS OFF HER DESK.

EMILY
I don’t even know what you’re doing here.

EMILY STARTS PICKING UP THE PAPERS. A. MICHAEL HELPS HER.

EMILY
Thanks. Just stack them all on the corner and I’ll deal with them later.

A. MICHAEL
Isn’t this a lot of filing?

EMILY
Not filing. Paperwork.

A. MICHAEL
When will you get it done?

EMILY
It’ll get done at the usual time …
between dinner and midnight.

A. MICHAEL
That’s what Uncle Stuart said.

CUT TO:
INTERIOR RECEPTION AREA – DAY
EDNA CROSSES THE LOBBY CARRYING A SMALL CAT.

ESTRELLA
Edna! Buenos dias. Who is this?

EDNA HANDS A CAT TO ESTRELLA

EDNA
Doesn’t have a name yet, dear. Saved from the streets and now it needs the works from the doc: test for feline leukemia, AIDS, neuter it, de-tick it, de-flea it, de-worm it, and give it whatever shots you’ve got.

ESTRELLA
Male or female?

EDNA
Female.

ESTRELLA
(STROKES CAT) So, gatita, what’s your name? What do you want Estrella to put on your card?

EDNA
Gatita works.

ESTRELLA
Linda already has one. (TO THE CAT) Are you a playful little one? Nope, pretty quiet. Do you have a sense of humor? Are you a little jester?

EDNA
Awfully quiet for a jester.

ESTRELLA
So, we’ll give this little one something to shoot for.

ROBBIE ENTERS.

ROBBIE
I thought I heard my best girl. Hi, Mom. Who’s that?

EDNA
Hello, darling. Linda’s newest stray. Jester.

ESTRELLA HANDS THE CAT TO ROBBIE.

ESTRELLA
Here you go, Jester. (TO ROBBIE) Take this little girl back for the works.

ROBBIE
(TO JESTER) You’re going to feel so much better when we get all these fleas off you.

ROBBIE EXITS.

CUT TO:
INTERIOR EMILY’S OFFICE – DAY
A. MICHAEL STARES AT EMILY'S WALL OF PHOTOS

EMILY
What did Stuart say?

A. MICHAEL
Who's the girl?

EMILY
Me.

A. MICHAEL POINTS AT THE PHOTO

EMILY
And that is the Right Reverend Stuart L. MacGregor.

A. MICHAEL LOOKS CONFUSED

EMILY
That’s right. One and the same.

A. MICHAEL
This can’t be my Uncle Stuart!

EMILY
It was a long time ago. Now, what did Stuart say?

A. MICHAEL
That you need someone with my skills. You know, you’re lucky I’m available. I wouldn’t even have considered such a small clinic but Uncle Stu said you were pretty desperate, and I can see you need some organization around here.

EMILY
Lucky? Lucky! I don’t need you. And, this place is organized just fine, thank you very much. Sorry you made the trip. Goodbye and tell Uncle Stuart to mind his very own business.

EMILY WALKS TO THE DOOR THAT LEADS OUTSIDE TO THE STAFF PARKING LOT. SHE TURNS TO A. MICHAEL AND OPENS THE DOOR.

A. MICHAEL
Uncle Stuart —

EMILY
I have patients waiting.

A. MICHAEL
Exactly. That’s why I’m here.

EMILY
What?!

A. MICHAEL
Okay, Uncle Stuart said you’re looking for a vet to bring into the practice.

EMILY
And what exactly does that have to do with you?

A MICHAEL
Dr. Mayfield, I am a licensed veterinarian.

EMILY
A. Michael, you are the nephew of my best friend and I’ll admit you’re a smart kid,
but —

A MICHAEL
I was a smart kid. I am now a skilled veterinarian.

EMILY
No! You’re not a veterinarian. You’re a kid fresh out of school who hasn't the faintest idea of what a vet's practice requires.

OFFSTAGE: KNOCK ON EMILY’S INTERIOR OFFICE DOOR
ESTRELLA OPENS THE DOOR TO THE INTERIOR HALLWAY AND PEEKS IN.

ESTRELLA
Sorry to interrupt, Dr. Em, but we’ve got appointments backing up out here.

A. MICHAEL
It requires knowledge and skill.

ESTRELLA EXITS AND CLOSES THE DOOR.

EMILY
It requires compassion and patience. It requires experience.

A. MICHAEL
Yeah, well, I have those too.

EMILY
Experience, no, I don’t think so. Compassion and patience? Do you?

EMILY SLAMS THE DOOR TO THE EXTERIOR PARKING LOT. SHE WALKS ACROSS HER OFFICE AND EXITS INTO THE CLINIC HALLWAY.

EMILY
Follow me.

(CONTINUED)

Family Plus One: SCENE TWO

CLINIC INTERIOR LOBBY - DAY
A SMALL WOMAN IS HOLDING THE HAND OF A LITTLE BOY STANDING AT THE COUNTER. ESTRELLA IS TALKING TO THEM.

ROBBIE ENTERS, PICKS UP A CHART, EXITS.

WOMAN
Please, how’s Molly doing? This is her first litter. Is she okay?

BOY
Mommy? Is Molly sick?

WOMAN
No, Josh, she’s having puppies.

BOY
(TO ESTRELLA) She’s going to be a mommy, and I’m going to be a daddy.

WOMAN
Something like that.

ESTRELLA
Molly’s doing just fine. She acts like a veteran.

ROBBIE ENTERS WITH A BOX FULL OF PUPPIES.

ROBBIE
Whose puppies are these? Are these your puppies?

BOY
(LOOKING INTO BOX) Nope.

ROBBIE
No?

BOY
My dog is Molly.

ROBBIE
Well, what if we let Molly tell us whose puppies these are? Is that okay?

BOY
Okay.

ROBBIE AND THE BOY EXIT.
MAN WITH A SMALL DOG APPROACHES THE COUNTER.
PHONE RINGS.
A. MICHAEL ENTERS.


ESTRELLA
(ON THE PHONE) Mayfield Veterinary Clinic, could you hold a moment? … Me, too, hon, but I can’t do a thing about it. Give me just a second and I’ll be right back.

WOMAN
I’ll get the car ready.


ESTRELLA
Go out the back door, honey, and they’ll be right behind you. Cynthia, would you pick up line two, please?

WOMAN EXITS.

CYNTHIA
(OFFSTAGE) Can’t. We’re doing Murphy.

MAN
So, Estrella, when can the doc neuter Brutus?


A. MICHAEL STEPS TO THE COUNTER BESIDE THE MAN.

ESTRELLA
(TO MAN) I’ll be with you and Brutus in just a minute. (ON THE PHONE) Thanks for hanging in there. Whatcha need?

A. MICHAEL
I’m here to see the doctor.

ESTRELLA IGNORES A. MICHAEL, MOTIONS MAN TO WAIT. SHE’S STILL TALKING ON THE PHONE AS SHE LOOKS ON THE COMPUTER SCREEN.

ESTRELLA
Let’s see, Dr. Em could see Boodles, um, Mrs. Cardwell, she doesn’t have an opening ‘til Thursday morning. … Well, if you tell me this is an emergency annual checkup I guess I could work you in. (LAUGHS) How’s 9:30? Tell Boodles we’ll see him Thursday. … You, too, hon. (TO MAN) We could schedule Brutus for Wednesday. Brutus can’t have any food or water after —

A. MICHAEL
I’m here to see Dr. Mayfield.

ESTRELLA
Wednesday we’ll be doing the big job.

SHE MAKES SCISSORS WITH HER FINGERS WHILE LOOKING AT A. MICHAEL. SHE TURNS BACK TO THE MAN.

ESTRELLA
No food or water after midnight. Bring Brutus in by —

A. MICHAEL
The doctor is expecting me and I’m ready to see her now.

ESTRELLA
Well, I’m not ready to let you see the doctor – NOW. (CONTINUES TO MAN) 7:30 Wednesday morning. He’ll be ready to —

A. MICHAEL
I’m sure she’s expecting me.

ESTRELLA
Mr. Schmeddlapp, Brutus will be ready to go home Wednesday afternoon around 4:00. (TO A. MICHAEL) Now you, sir, if you’ll sign in, I’ll be happy to read your signature and tell Dr. Mayfield you’re here.

A. MICHAEL
I am a doctor and Dr. Mayfield is expecting me.

ESTRELLA
Well, sir, if you’ll sign in on the sheet, I’ll be happy to read your signature and find out exactly who you are, doctor.

A. MICHAEL
As a doctor, I feel obligated tell a woman your age that you are repeating yourself.

CYNTHIA ENTERS TO GET A CHART, JUST IN TIME TO OVERHEAR THE LAST REMARK.

CYNTHIA
I don’t know who you are, mister, but you are in bi-i-ig trouble.

ESTRELLA
(TO CYNTHIA) I can take care of this guy, thank you.

A. MICHAEL
(TO CYNTHIA) I don’t know who you are, MISS, but I don’t need anyone’s help on how to handle women.

CYNTHIA
Yeah, I would say you were pretty much beyond help.

ROBBIE ENTERS.

ROBBIE
(TO CYNTHIA) Have you finished Murphy’s x-rays yet?

CYNTHIA
I can do my job just fine without directions from you!

CYNTHIA EXITS.

ROBBIE
Cyn?

ROBBIE EXITS.

OFFSTAGE SOUND OF A CRATE DOOR SLAMMING AND ROBBIE CRYING OUT.
ROBBIE ENTERS, HOLDING HIS HAND OUT TO ESTRELLA.

ROBBIE
I think I need a Band-Aid.

ESTRELLA
Ay, niño, what happened?


A. MICHAEL
Nothing has happened. I’ve been waiting and waiting to see the doctor, but nothing has happened.

ROBBIE
Cynthia yelled at me and I caught my hand in the door of the big crate.

ESTRELLA GLARES AT A. MICHAEL.

ESTRELLA
(MUTTERS CURSES IN SPANISH)

EMILY
(OFFSTAGE) Estrella, what in the world is going on?

ESTRELLA
There’s a doctor here that needs neutering on Wednesday.

EMILY ENTERS.

EMILY
A. Michael!

(CONTINUED)