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Episode No. 25 - Opening Night - Part 1

written by Jim Brooks

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About this story

Published: 12 Jul 2000 | Size: 54 KB (11436 words) | Language: english | Rating: PG-13
Average: 4.0/5   4.0/5 (83 votes)

based on stories and characters created by Winnie Holzman

Author’s Note: Well, I’m back. I realized that my last effort (Accidents Happen) wasn’t very good, and that kind of disheartened me from writing anymore of these, but nonetheless, I’m back for more. Since it’s been so long since my last story, I thought it would help if I wrote a quick summary of all my previous stories (Episodes 20-24) so you’d know where I left off.

Episode 20 (Communication Breakdown): Angela feigns sickness in order to stay home from school and avoid confrontation with Brian; Graham’s car breaks down and is forced to spend the night at Hallie’s apartment; Sharon breaks up with Kyle, so Kyle starts a vicious rumor about her; Brian attempts to tell Angela about the letter, but fails

Episode 21 (Interpretations): Angela and Jordan patch things up; Jordan tells her he’s ready to commit to a relationship; Rayanne gets over Angela; Rickie finds out the Pride House has been temporarily shut down due to health violations; Jordan passes a test with Brian’s help; Brian finally fesses up to Angela about the letter

Episode 22 (Opposing Hearts): Graham reveals to Neil that he kissed Hallie; Angela talks to Brian about the letter; Graham and Hallie name the restaurant; Angela and Rayanne finally talk

Episode 23 (Cupid’s Arrow): Rayanne and Rickie are depressed about spending another Valentine’s Day alone, so they spend it with each other; Sharon organizes the Valentine’s Day dance, but it gets canceled at the last minute; Angela spends Valentine’s Day at Jordan’s house where she meets his dad; Jordan reveals his mother died during his birth

Episode 24 (Accidents Happen): Graham and Patty spend the weekend away from the kids, but it only places them further apart from each other; Angela goes downtown to see Jordan’s band; Jordan gets drunk and Angela refuses to drive home with him; Angela asks Brian (who is now driving) to come pick her up; Brian gets in an accident with Jordan; they both end up in the hospital

Before you read, familiarize yourself with the following terms:

Beat - a short pause in dialogue

O.S. - off-screen (dialogue coming from someone in the scene, but not visible)

V.O. - voice-over (usually a character’s thoughts)

POV - point of view

 

OPENING NIGHT, PART 1

 

ACT I

 

INT - LIBERTY HIGH - HALLWAY - DAY

Angela has her books slung over her shoulder as she walks down the middle of the hallway during the morning rush. At the other end of the hall, she sees Jordan coming her way. Jordan has a large bandage covering the right side of his forehead. He doesn’t see Angela.

ANGELA
(VO)

I feel like I can’t talk to Jordan. Or that I don’t want to talk to him. Just for now. Or maybe, like, for a long time.

Angela quickly turns and walks the opposite way. Now walking away from Jordan, she sees Brian at the end of the hallway, struggling to make his way through the swollen crowd as he pushes himself forward with crutches. Feeling guilty, she wants to help him, but she can’t bring herself to face him. She slips into the nearest girls bathroom.

 

INT - GIRLS’ ROOM - THAT MOMENT

The bathroom is empty, but dirty as usual. Angela leans over the sink and splashes some water on her face, trying to clear her mind and face the day. Sharon comes walking in.

SHARON
Angela!

ANGELA
Oh, hi.

SHARON
Well, don’t be too happy to see me.

ANGELA
No, I’m sorry, I’m just...

ANGELA
(VO)

A horrible person.

(to Sharon)

I don’t know. I am happy to see you.

(beat)

So how are you?

SHARON
Is something wrong?

ANGELA
I just...have this test next...I’m worried about. I better get to class, I need this.

 

INT - HALLWAY - THAT MOMENT

Angela steps out of the bathroom. She stops and breathes a sigh of frustration, then continues down the hall.

 

INT - TUTORING ROOM

Jordan sits in his desk for morning tutoring, the desk opposite him empty. He looks around the crowded room, waiting for Brian. Jordan begins to grow impatient, playing with his pencil, until Brian slowly comes through the door on crutches. He makes his way to his desk and awkwardly sits down.

JORDAN
Hey.

BRIAN
Hey.

Jordan and Brian both get out their books and other things needed. They both feel slightly awkward.

JORDAN
(after long beat)

Look, I don’t know what you heard, but, uh...sorry about what happened to you.

(beat)

I mean, so you what? You, like, broke your leg, or...?

BRIAN
(beat)

Uh...not really, but...it’s gettin’ better.

Brian shifts in his chair and winces in pain.

BRIAN
I need some paper. It’s on the shelf over there.

(points to a shelf in the corner of the room)

Could you - ?

JORDAN
Oh, yeah, yeah.

Jordan gets out of his chair and walks to the other side of the room. The camera stays on Brian. Jordan returns with a few sheets of paper and hands them to Brian.

BRIAN
Thanks.

(beat)

So...what are we doin’?

 

INT - GIRLS’ ROOM

Between classes, Sharon looks at herself in the mirror, fixing her hair, make-up, etc. The toilet flushes and the stall door flies open. Out walks Rayanne. She squeezes past a few girls to the sink next to Sharon. They acknowledge each other with a glance.

RAYANNE
So...Cherski.

SHARON
(beat)

Uh, yes?

RAYANNE
What’s goin’ on with you and Kyle?

SHARON
Nothing! There’s absolutely nothing going on between us, you know that.

RAYANNE
You’re completely and totally over him?

SHARON
Completely and totally!

RAYANNE
So you hate him.

SHARON
Again, completely and totally.

RAYANNE
See, I don’t understand that. There - that’s your problem.

SHARON
What’s my problem?

Rayanne removes a bag of sunflower seeds from her schoolbag and commences to munch on them. She offers it up to Sharon.

RAYANNE
Seeds?

Sharon shakes her head "no."

RAYANNE
That you can let a guy, like, control your feelings like that. You get too emotionally involved with guys. See, you have to know that, like, whenever you get involved with a guy, you’re gonna get hurt. Because men are...well, men are the scum of the Earth. But if you treat them like the scum of the Earth...then you won’t care what they do.

SHARON
And this is how you live your life?

RAYANNE
To the fullest.

SHARON
That explains a lot.

RAYANNE
It does. ‘Cause I’m happy.

(beat)

I meet a guy, we have some fun, and it ends there. See, because I know that he’ll find some way to hurt me. But since I don’t get, like, obsessed - since I don’t let them become a part of my life - it’s just, like, oh well, time to move on.

(beat)

There’s a big misconception about me. I do have relationships. They just usually end when I go home.

 

INT - TEACHER’S LOUNGE

Ms. Lerner and Mr. Katimski are sitting alone in the teacher’s lunch room eating their respective lunches. The room is small, cramped, and dull. There are several small, circular tables, a microwave, and various food supplements. Lerner and Katimski are talking. Lerner is still smitten with him.

LERNER
You know, I always wanted to be an English teacher.

KATIMSKI
Is that right?

LERNER
Oh, I loved English in school. I mean, I was bad at it, but I read almost obsessively.

KATIMSKI
(long pause as he forms his thought)

Ahh, who do you like?

LERNER
Who do I like?

KATIMSKI
Writers.

LERNER
Oh! Well, um...Thornton Wilder, you’re doing "Our Town."

KATIMSKI
Yes, I’m ve - I’m, I’m excited about that. The rehearsals have, have gone very well, so...

LERNER
Yeah.

KATIMSKI
I hope you’ll, uh...come and see one of the shows.

LERNER
Oh, I already bought my ticket.

KATIMSKI
Oh, good.

LERNER
Yeah.

(beat)

And maybe, I don’t know, after the show...we could, you know...get something to drink. Celebration of a play well-done.

(laughs pathetically)

KATIMSKI
Oh...no...thank you, but I have plans that night.

LERNER
Oh, no, no, it’s okay.

(beat)

Is there a...a "special someone?"

KATIMSKI
Well, yes, he’s um...he’s -

LERNER
He?

KATIMSKI
Mm-hmm.

LERNER
(whispers)

You’re gay?

KATIMSKI
Yes.

Lerner looks at Katimski sorrowfully.

KATIMSKI
Gee whiz, it’s not...something to be...ahh, ashamed of.

LERNER
Oh, no. I know.

KATIMSKI
A lot of people know. It’s not something I, I, I hide.

(beat)

I don’t actually just tell people, but if it comes up...I'm not hesitant.

LERNER
Oh no, I understand, that’s great.

(beat)

I wish I was so sure of myself.

(laughs sadly)

 

EXT - LIBERTY HIGH - STEPS

Angela sits at the bottom of the steps of the main door during lunch, studying for an upcoming test. Getting bored, she stops concentrating on the book she’s reading and aimlessly looks around at everyone else around her. She turns to look straight ahead and sees Jordan walking right towards her.

 

ANGELA’S POV, SLOW-MOTION:
Jordan notices her and smiles. As he walks towards her, he looks angelic in her eyes, his hair blowing in the wind. He puts his hand through his long hair and brushes it back.

 
END ANGELA’S POV

 

Angela looks back at him with a big smile.

ANGELA
(VO)

I’m such a pushover.

Jordan sits down next to Angela.

JORDAN
Hey.

ANGELA
(smiles)

Hi.

Jordan sees her textbook.

JORDAN
What’s that, Math?

ANGELA
Yeah.

JORDAN
(eager to talk about it)

I just got an 84 on my Math test.

ANGELA
Wow, that’s great.

JORDAN
Yeah, that kid Brian helped me.

After a beat, she brushes her hair back and looks at him. He kisses her, and as they kiss, the bell rings. The camera stays on them kissing as many pairs of legs run past them. The bell stops ringing and the camera begins to pull back. Angela and Jordan are left alone, kissing on the steps.

 

INT - HALLWAY

Empty. Then the bell sounds. Students rush out of the classroom doors, flooding the hallway with people. Katimski emerges from his class talking to one of his students. Off in the distance, Mary Ann Chavatal and Reneé Lerner watch him.

CHAVATAL
So, have you...you know..."talked" to him?

LERNER
Yeah. Yeah, I talked to him.

CHAVATAL
Well....what happened?

Lerner looks around, then leads Chavatal into the nearest classroom, the Science lab.

 

INT - SCIENCE LAB - THAT MOMENT

LERNER
He said no.

CHAVATAL
(feeling sorry)

Oh, Reneé...

LERNER
Well, no, no.

(whispers)

He told me he’s a homo-sexual.

CHAVATAL
You’re kidding.

Lerner shakes her head.

CHAVATAL
Hmm.

(beat)

Oh well.

They both laugh.

CHAVATAL
Not too much you can do then, huh?

(beat)

You know, I’m just remembering Kathy Krzynowski telling me that he took in a student. Rickie Vasquez? Apparently, he didn't have a place to live, so Richard’s letting him stay with him.

LERNER
(thinking)

Vasquez, Vasquez.

(beat)

The boy that wears make-up?

CHAVATAL
Make-up?!

 

END ACT I.
 

ACT II

 

FADE IN:

INT - HALLWAY

Principal Foster stands outside his office, standing above everyone like a hawk. Students walk by in between classes. Foster seems to be looking for someone in particular. Then Kathy Krzynowski comes walking down the hallway.

FOSTER
Kathy.

KRZYNOWSKI
Yes?

FOSTER
Can I see you in my office?

 

INT - FOSTER’S OFFICE

Krzynowski takes a seat as Foster walks around to his chair.

FOSTER
Something has come to my attention involving one of our teachers - Richard Katimski - and one of our students - Enrique Vasquez. Would you know anything about this?

KRZYNOWSKI
(hesitant)

Uh, well...

 

EXT/INT - THREE RIVERS BOOK STORE - DAY

Brian walks along the sidewalk of a strip mall and comes up to the front door of the book store where he works. He pushes the door open with one of his crutches and moves in. The store is small, a "ma and pop" operation which hires mostly local teenagers. There are only a few people in the store, and Kelly, a pretty, young girl with black hair, is at the register. Brian hangs his coat up on a coat rack and gets behind the register.

BRIAN
Hi.

KELLY
Hi.

Brian hobbles a bit on his way to his seat.

KELLY
Ooh, are you okay? Do you need help?

BRIAN
No. Thanks.

Brian settles in for his first day back to work. He rests his crutches down on the floor next to him.

KELLY
Ya know, you really shouldn’t be working in your condition.

BRIAN
I have to. I have car insurance to pay.

KELLY
Oh, you drive?

BRIAN
Yeah.

(beat)

Um, are - are you new here?

KELLY
Yep. Just started yesterday.

(beat)

What’s your name?

BRIAN
Brian.

KELLY
I’m Kelly.

BRIAN
Hi.

They shake hands. Being the ladies’ man he is, Brian is a little nervous.

KELLY
So, what school do you go to?

BRIAN
Uh...Liberty.

KELLY
Me too.

BRIAN
Oh.

KELLY
What grade?

BRIAN
Sophomore.

KELLY
Me too!

BRIAN
(smiles)

I thought I recognized you.

A customer walks up to the register with a book and we CUT TO:
 

INT - CATALANO RESIDENCE - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT

The lights and TV are on, but no one is in the room. The door creaks open and in walks Jordan. He throws his books and his car keys down on the table and hangs his coat over the back of the sofa. His father Tom comes in from the kitchen.

TOM
You’re just getting home from school now?

JORDAN
I had some things to do.

TOM
Oh, what, hang out with your loser friends?

Jordan ignores his dad and walks past him.

TOM
Wait a minute.

Unwilling, Jordan stops and turns back to face his dad.

TOM
Let me see your cut.

Tom lifts the bandage on Jordan’s face so he can get a good look at the gash.

TOM
Not as bad as the last time I saw it. I guess it’s healing.

JORDAN
Yeah, cuts do that.

TOM
Don’t get smart.

Jordan walks into the kitchen, but his dad stays in the living room. Tom notices Jordan’s belongings lying around.

TOM
Are you just gonna leave your coat on the sofa? Hang it up.

JORDAN
(O.S.)

I’m goin’ back out.

TOM
When? ‘Cause dinner’s almost ready.

Jordan comes back into the living room.

JORDAN
Now.

Jordan grabs his keys and his coat.

TOM
Are you gonna eat something first?

JORDAN
I’ll eat when I go out.

TOM
Oh, God forbid you eat with your family.

JORDAN
What family?

Jordan is about to walk out the door, but Tom speaks.

TOM
Do you realize how disappointed your mother would be if she knew how you turned out?

JORDAN
(angry)

No, I wouldn’t, ‘cause I killed her, didn’t I?

TOM
Oh, don’t gimme that.

JORDAN
No, when I was a kid, you, like...took it out on me...for her dying. You blamed me all the time. I didn’t even know her.

TOM
No, I didn’t.

JORDAN
Yeah, you did.

Jordan walks out, slamming the door.

 

INT - THREE RIVERS BOOK STORE - NIGHT

The store is closed and Kelly and Brian are finishing up their shift. Brian is still seated behind the counter, putting things away.

KELLY
You can go. I’ll finish up.

BRIAN
Oh, that’s okay, I’ll do it.

KELLY
Well, your leg -

BRIAN
I’ll manage. I’m about at that, like, that point where I don’t even need crutches anymore.

KELLY
Okay, if you say so. I’ll see ya tomorrow.

BRIAN
Okay.

KELLY
Bye.

Kelly walks out the front door. Brian watches her leave, then slowly stands up. He grabs his crutches and places them under his armpits. He moves out from behind the counter and stops. He gingerly leans the crutches up against the counter. Mustering up just enough strength, he begins walking, with pain, on his own two legs. His face clenches in pain, but as he walks across the floor of the store, he smiles.

 

INT - LIBERTY HIGH - FOSTER'S OFFICE - NEXT DAY

Inside the principal's office, Rickie is seated in front of Foster’s desk. Foster walks in and sits down.

FOSTER
Mr. Vasquez.

(beat)

Who is your English teacher?

RICKIE
Uh, Mr. Katimski.

FOSTER
Mr. Katimski. You like him?

RICKIE
He's a good teacher.

FOSTER
Mm-hmm. And, uh...

(beat)

You know what, Rickie? I'm just going to get right to the point. Now, this is purely hearsay, but from I've been told by several teachers, including Ms. Krzynowski...you, unfortunately, don't have a place to live. And this came to the attention of Mr. Katimski? And you are currently living with him?

RICKIE
Um...I'm at...a friend's house.

FOSTER
Mr. Vasquez...are you saying Ms. Krzynowski lied to me?

 

INT - HALLWAY

Brian, without crutches but noticeably limping, approaches Jordan at his locker in between classes. Jordan no longer has a bandage on his forehead, but there is still a noticeable cut.

BRIAN
Um...

After a beat, Jordan turns and looks at Brian.

JORDAN
What?

BRIAN
Can we, like, change our schedule? I’m working again, so I can’t be here every day, so I’ll need to, like, change some dates around.

JORDAN
Yeah, whatever.

BRIAN
Okay, ‘cause -

Kelly comes walking by.

KELLY
Hey, Brian.

BRIAN
Eh - oh, hi.

Kelly continues on down the hall. Brian keeps watching her. Jordan looks at Kelly, then at Brian.

JORDAN
Go get her number.

BRIAN
Oh, I have her number. I work with her.

JORDAN
You already have it.

Jordan closes his locker.

JORDAN
So what are you waitin’ for? Give her a call.

Jordan walks away. Brian contemplates doing it.

 

INT - FOSTER’S OFFICE

Principal Foster leads Mr. Katimski to a cushioned chair. Foster sits at his desk, opposite Katimski.

FOSTER
Richard, it has come to my attention that you may be currently living with a Liberty High student.

KATIMSKI
I am, yes.

FOSTER
Richard, I don’t think I need to tell you all the reasons why this cannot continue.

KATIMSKI
But, but you don’t know the specifics. Uh, Enrique - he was all set to live at the Pride House. Now, this place would’ve been the perfect environment for him, uh...but it was temporarily shut down. So, so what else can he do? This boy was living on the streets several months ago. Gee whiz, certainly you can’t just, just, just take him out of the only home he...has.

FOSTER
Richard, there are plenty of shelters in the city that are equipped for exactly this situation. Until the Pride House re-opens, he can stay at a shelter not too far from school.

KATIMSKI
No, no, he doesn’t want to go back there. It made him feel more...more alone than he already was. And frankly, I can’t blame him.

FOSTER
Richard, these shelters; they want to help runaways like Rickie.

KATIMSKI
Rickie is not a runaway. His parents abandoned him. He deserves more than some, uh, some cold shelter.

FOSTER
His parents abandoned him?

KATIMSKI
Yes.

FOSTER
(beat)

Well, it doesn't seem like he or you have many options. I wish it were different, but unfortunately, there is nothing I can do.

KATIMSKI
He - you could allow him to continue living with me.

FOSTER
Richard...now I don't want to be irrational, but I cannot allow a teacher living with a student. Do you realize what people would make of it?

KATIMSKI
I see what you're making of it.

FOSTER
If even the slightest word of this was leaked, the media would be all over it, and they would be all over you and Rickie. Is that the kind of live you want to lead? Reporters at your door. Microphones in your face. Angry parents! You would be condemned by the entire community. You wouldn’t be able to ever get a job again.

KATIMSKI
Then, uh...you, you, make sure it doesn't get leaked.

FOSTER
Information has a way of going around. It got to me, didn’t it?

(beat)

People will find out about this. Nothing can be kept secret. It's something that is inevitable.

KATIMSKI
So you're saying I just...kick Rickie out?

FOSTER
No, now, I’m not saying that; you’re twisting my words around here.

(beat)

Richard, I don’t want this to sound offensive in anyway because Liberty High tolerates all races, religions, and sexual preferences - and I’m certainly not trying to accuse you of anything - but a homo-sexual teacher living with a young boy who is also obviously very confused about his own sexuality...I’m sorry, this just cannot continue under any circumstances. As I said, we will get Rickie into a shelter until the Pride House re-opens. It’s his only option.

KATIMSKI
And if I don't give him up?

FOSTER
I'm afraid I'd have no choice but to fire you.

KATIMSKI
No, y-you can't fire me for -

FOSTER
Richard, you don't need that kind of media harassment. Neither does Rickie. Neither does the school.

KATIMSKI
Of course, it's all about the image of the school.

FOSTER
N -

KATIMSKI
Forget about the well-being of Rickie, protect the school.

FOSTER
I don't want to fire you. You come here highly qualified. I've watched you. You're an excellent teacher.

KATIMSKI
Thank you.

FOSTER
No one wants to fire you...but for your own benefit, it may have to come down to that.

 

INT - GIRL’S ROOM

The bathroom is crowded with girls, talking, and smoke. Rayanne and Sharon are hanging out in the bathroom together, standing by the radiator, just talking. There’s a feeling in the air. They are slowly beginning to enjoy each other’s company more.

RAYANNE
Ya can’t let yourself get hurt by guys. You gotta learn how to have fun with them.

(beat)

I did have one relationship with a guy that I -

(takes a breath)

Not many people have been told this. In eighth grade, I dated this guy. And we were havin’ fun, and I was likin’ it. But one time at a party, I caught him kissin’ another girl. So then after that, he swore to me it would never happen again. So we got back together and it happened again. And I thought, "It’s my fault. I let myself get hurt by this guy, this meaningless guy." I mean, guys’ll cheat on you, like, at the drop of a hat. They’ll lie to you, leave you, and dump you.

SHARON
Well, maybe not all guys...but Kyle.

RAYANNE
What you gotta do with Kyle is, you gotta play his game. To understand guys, you have to think like them.

SHARON
(interested)

Whadda you mean?

RAYANNE
You wanna get back at him? Do to him what he did to you. Explore. Have fun. When it’s all over, you’ll have learned something. And as a side note, you’ll have gotten back at Kyle.

Sharon thinks about this.

RAYANNE
And then, when it’s no fun anymore? Say, "Bye-bye, Kyle."

(beat)

Ya see what I’m getting at?

SHARON
(smiling)

Kind of.

 

INT - KATIMSKI'S HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT

Rickie is hunched up on the couch watching TV and nibbling on some snack food. Katimski walks in, home from work. They give each other a transitory look and Katimski walks to the closet to put his jacket away.

KATIMSKI
Teacher's conference.

RICKIE
Mm-hmm.

KATIMSKI
That's...why I'm home a little late.

Katimski sits down on the sofa opposite Rickie. They both sit there for a short moment, watching the television. Then Katimski turns back to Rickie.

KATIMSKI
I talked to Principal Foster today.

RICKIE
Me too.

KATIMSKI
What - what did he have to say?

RICKIE
Just about, ya know, me living here, and...

KATIMSKI
Mm-hmm.

RICKIE
So...

KATIMSKI
Rickie, um...I mean, there's no easy way to put this.

RICKIE
He knows, right?

KATIMSKI
Uh, well, it would seem that way, yes. Which means that I'll probably lose my job...but -

RICKIE
I can - I can find a new place -

KATIMSKI
No -

RICKIE
- I mean, I can stay somewhere else.

KATIMSKI
No, if...if I have to give up my job to, to keep you off the streets, then...so be it.

RICKIE
No, you don't have to -

KATIMSKI
Rickie, you don't have to live...um...you should have a place to live. It seems as if nothing's going your way lately, but, but I'm stepping in and saying, uh, ya know, I'll take the fall. I mean I don't want you to roam the city at night looking for a place to sleep so I can keep my job. Okay? I can get a new job. I can get a new job easier then you can get another home.

Rickie is hurt by the last comment, and shows it.

KATIMSKI
I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said it -

RICKIE
No, 'cause...it - it's true.

KATIMSKI
I just didn't, uh, phrase it right, but...but you understand.

RICKIE
(sighs)

Yeah. I do.

(long beat)

But can't you, like...find a way to keep the job you have? I mean, if they fire you...I mean, is that legal?

KATIMSKI
Well, it's not ethical, but...I suppose they can fire whomever they want.

(beat)

Look, they just...they're ignorant, you know? It's all about a stereo-type that homo-sexuals are, are perverts. I mean, that's what some people think, unfortunately. And Principal Foster sees you and thinks, ya know, 'Well, he wears make-up, he must also be a homo-sexual.' And whether you are or not is...none of his business or mine, but it's that stereo-typical thinking of his that, you know, he thinks well maybe I'm going to try to do something to you. Or, or be a bad influence or something. And for him and the school board...it's not a question of them caring about you, gee whiz, it's about the image of the school. I mean, if this got out...ya know, 'Gay teacher living with Liberty High student.' And that's what principal Foster's afraid of. What would people think of him and his school.

RICKIE
Yeah.

KATIMSKI
We’ll get through this.

 

END ACT II.
 

ACT III

 

INT - LIBERTY HIGH - TUTORING ROOM - NEXT DAY

Brian is in the tutoring room after school waiting for Jordan. Kelly is there talking to Brian.

KELLY
So I’m like, "Look, I’ve looked all over. I checked the computer. We don’t have the book!" and he’s like, "Let me talk to your manager, young lady."

BRIAN
Some people...

KELLY
I know! I mean, I practically looked through every shelf in the store.

(beat)

Anyway...

Jordan walks in without interrupting there conversation. Brian and him exchange glances as Jordan sits down.

KELLY
Um, listen, could you work for me this Thursday? It’s my mom’s birthday, so I’m cooking dinner for her.

BRIAN
Yeah, it’s not a problem.

KELLY
Cool, thanks. I’ll see ya.

BRIAN
See ya.

Kelly leaves. Jordan, biting his thumbnail, watches Kelly leave, then looks at Brian. He doesn’t say a word.

BRIAN
(laughs)

What?

JORDAN
(beat)

You know what?

Brian looks confused.

JORDAN
So, d’you ask her out?

BRIAN
Oh, no, I can’t. We work together.

JORDAN
So?

BRIAN
So I don’t, like, mix business and pleasure.

JORDAN
(not understanding)

You don’t mix - ?

BRIAN
What if I do? And we like, see a movie. And it doesn’t work out. We still have to work together.

JORDAN
(slight laugh)

You’re scared.

Brian doesn’t respond.

JORDAN
Just do it like you just did there.

BRIAN
What did I just do?

JORDAN
Go up to her and say..."Wanna do something this weekend?" Just like that. Normal.

Brian looks at Jordan, thinking this could actually work.

BRIAN
Just - just like that? Like it’s nothing? Like I’m asking a typical question?

JORDAN
Yeah.

BRIAN
What if she says no?

JORDAN
Then she says no. Big deal.

BRIAN
It’d be, like, embarrassing.

JORDAN
(beat)

What if she says yes?

 

INT - KATIMSKI’S HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT

Katimski and Joseph are sitting on the couch. The glow of the television shines on their faces, but they’re not paying attention to the TV.

JOSEPH
Richard, however I can help...

KATIMSKI
You can’t, really. I mean, I know what I have to do, it’s just hard. I mean, on one hand, I could lose my job because of a kid that - I mean, really, we hardly know Rickie. But as a teacher...and just as a human being, I think I have an obligation. I agreed to take him in until a spot in the Pride House opened up. A spot still hasn’t opened up, technically. I mean, should I choose my job over the well-being of a child I barely know or should I choose my living - my career - over this kid? It’s obvious what I have to do, it’s just not fair.

JOSEPH
Can’t you sue? I’m sure you can.

KATIMSKI
Ya know, I’ve thought about that, but it’s not worth the time or money. I mean, I’m confident that I can go out and...find another job.

JOSEPH
The least they could do is help you get another job.

KATIMSKI
They’d say they don’t want me teaching at all, but they don’t care. They just don’t want me teaching in their school.

 

INT - THREE RIVERS BOOK STORE

The store is closed and empty except for Brian and Kelly. Brian is closing the front door of the store when someone comes up and tries to enter.

BRIAN
We’re closed.

Brian walks gingerly back to the counter. Kelly is putting the money into a pencil case while Brian tidies things up.

BRIAN
So, um...

(beat)

KELLY
So, um, what?

BRIAN
(laughs)

Um...d’ya wanna, like...I mean...ya doin’ anything?

KELLY
Not really.

BRIAN
Me neither.

KELLY
Okay.

BRIAN
So...I don’t know...have you seen Scenes From a Memory?

KELLY
No, but I wanna see it. That looks really good.

BRIAN
Yeah.

(beat)

I think it’s playing here this Friday. I’ll probably go see it.

(beat)

Would you wanna, like...see that? Movie?

KELLY
Oh, what? On Friday?

BRIAN
Oh, yeah, I guess, if you want.

KELLY
Yeah, I guess.

BRIAN
All right.

KELLY
(beat)

Well, looks like we’re done here.

BRIAN
Yeah.

KELLY
See ya tomorrow.

BRIAN
See ya.

 

EXT - LIBERTY HIGH - PARKING LOT - NEXT DAY

Outside, we see Jordan and Angela sitting on the hood of Jordan’s red car, staring off into space. Jordan is smoking.

ANGELA
So, how’s the tutoring going? Good, I guess.

JORDAN
Yeah, it’s...pretty good.

(beat)

I’m doin’ okay in English, I guess, so now we’re - we’re - he’s helping me with Math. Ya know?

ANGELA
Yeah. It’s hard. It’s, like, one subject at a time.

Long beat...Jordan takes a drag.

JORDAN
When I get outta school? Know what I’m gonna do?

ANGELA
What’s that?

Jordan has a spaced look in his eye, like he’s day-dreaming.

JORDAN
Just...go.

ANGELA
Where?

JORDAN
Anywhere. I’ll just...get in my car and just ride. Outta school. Outta my house. Outta this city.

ANGELA
What would you do?

JORDAN
I don’t care. I just wanna, like...stop time and just stop everything and just go wherever.

ANGELA
At least...you know what you’re doing with your life.

 

INT - HALLWAY

Brian and Kelly walk down the hallway talking and laughing. Kelly stops to drink from the water fountain. She lifts her hair away from the fountain and Brian stares at it. She finishes up and turns back to Brian, but before they can start talking again, Angela approaches.

ANGELA
Brian, um...

(sees Kelly; to Kelly)

Oh...hi.

KELLY
Hi.

They both look at Brian.

BRIAN
Oh! Uh...Kelly, this is Angela.

KELLY
Hi.

ANGELA
Hi.

(beat)

Um, anyway, I was gonna ask you something, but you’re busy, so...I mean, you are, right?

BRIAN
Uh...yeah. Yeah, I’m busy.

A very slight, proud smile crosses Brian’s face.

ANGELA
(with a hint of jealousy)

Okay, well...I’ll ask you about it later.

Angela walks down the hallway.

KELLY
Friend of yours?

BRIAN
Um, she’s just my neighbor.

 

INT - THE GLASS MOON - DINING ROOM - DAY

All of the wallpaper is up. The paintings have been hung. The tables and chairs are all set-up. The water fountain is ready to go. Everything looks ready. Graham comes walking in from the kitchen. He looks around the room and takes a deep, satisfied breath. Hallie walks in through the main doors. Her and Graham meet halfway and she nudges him.

HALLIE
(excited)

Do you believe it? This Friday...two more days and we open!

GRAHAM
Can hardly contain myself.

HALLIE
Everything we worked for. This is it. Except for a few last-minute things, we are ready for business.

GRAHAM
It has been hard.

Hallie looks around the room.

HALLIE
(after long beat)

I have to admit...I didn’t think we’d make it this far. I didn’t think I’d make it this far. But now...now that we know what we can accomplish...we can do anything.

 

INT - LIBERTY HIGH - HALLWAY

Angela turns a corner and walks down the crowded hallway. She walks towards Brian who is at his locker.

ANGELA
Brian?

BRIAN
Yeah?

ANGELA
So, you’re, like, off your crutches now, huh?

BRIAN
Yeah. It’s a little painful, but I’m walking.

ANGELA
So, um, listen...I was gonna ask you earlier, but uh...I have a Geometry test today after lunch? And Jordan told me how you helped him with Math. And I’m probably just as bad at it as he is. And, so, I was wondering if you could maybe explain a few problems to me. Like, say just a few examples from the book, during lunch. ‘Cause, I mean - I mean, normally, I wouldn’t ask you this, but I’ve been doin’ pretty bad lately, and this new stuff, it’s - I don’t understand it, so...

BRIAN
(fumbling with his books)

Um, uh...yeah, okay.

ANGELA
Thanks.

 

INT - LIBERTY HIGH - STAIRWELL

Sharon is trotting down the steps at a slow pace. As she walks, she sees someone coming up the flight of steps below her. It’s Kyle. She stops. Kyle is coming closer. He comes to the same flight of stairs as Sharon. Sharon looks at him as he walks past her.

SHARON
Kyle.

He stops.

KYLE
(annoyed)

What?

SHARON
Nothin’, just...

KYLE
(after beat)

Just what?

She swallows, closes her eyes and turns to face him.

SHARON
How’re things?

KYLE
What?

SHARON
How are things?

KYLE
Fine.

(beat)

Why? What is this?

SHARON
Nothing.

KYLE
All of a sudden, you’re talking to me?

SHARON
Well, I mean, we haven’t talked in a while.

KYLE
So?

SHARON
So I thought I’d say hi.

KYLE
Well...hi.

SHARON
Hi.

There is a long pause. Thinking this is a bad idea, Sharon starts to turn around and walk away, but Kyle speaks.

KYLE
Why are you talking to me?

SHARON
No reason, just...I don’t know, are you, like, doin’ anything this Friday?

KYLE
Tonight?

(beat)

Why? What - ?

SHARON
I don’t know, maybe we could...like, do something.

 

EXT - LIBERTY HIGH - STEPS

Brian and Angela are sitting on the steps as Angela hands Brian her textbook.

BRIAN
What’s the test on?

ANGELA
Uh, well, here's a, uh, a worksheet we did a while ago to prepare.

She hands him the paper. He glances at it quickly.

BRIAN
Oh, okay. This is just basic trig.

ANGELA
Trigonometry?! That's a senior class. They're giving it to us now?

BRIAN
It's easy, don't worry. You just need a calculator.

Angela pulls a calculator out of the back pocket of her school bag and hands it to Brian.

BRIAN
Okay, now let me just look at something. These textbooks can be hard to understand.

 

CUT TO:
 

ANGELA'S POV

Brian is studying the textbook while playing with his pencil. He focuses hard on a difficult problem as his brain goes to work.

Que. Fumbling Towards Ecstasy by Sarah McLachlan.

MUSIC
All the fear has left me now, I’m not frightened anymore | It’s my heart that pounds beneath my flesh, it’s my mouth that pushes out this breath | And if I shed a tear, I won’t cage it | I won’t fear love | And if I feel a rage, I won’t deny it | I won’t fear love.

ANGELA
(VO)

And as Brian tried to figure out some problem, I realized something. I was jealous...of Brian’s girlfriend. Why? I mean, it’s Brian. Am I torn between Brian and Jordan? Jordan is gorgeous, I mean that's obvious. But on the other hand, Brian has something Jordan doesn't have: intelligence. It's, like, the two things that I look for in men...and they each have one.

 

END ANGELA’S POV

 

Angela is watching him in awe of his intelligence. She smiles and tilts her head. He doesn't notice.

BRIAN
Okay, yeah, this is easy. You just have to memorize some simple formulas like tangent equals sine over cosine and stuff.

ANGELA
Uh-huh.

 

END MUSIC.

 

END ACT III.
 

ACT IV

 

INT - LIBERTY HIGH - HALLWAY - NEXT DAY

Kyle and Sharon are walking down the hallway, talking and smiling. They stop, say a few last words, kiss, and go their separate ways. Sharon walks over to Angela, who is resting at her locker. Angela is looking down the hallway at Brian and Kelly.

SHARON
Who’s that girl with Brian Krakow?

ANGELA
His girlfriend.

SHARON
Get out.

ANGELA
Nope.

SHARON
Hm.

Angela and Sharon stand there, watching. After a beat, Angela pulls Sharon aside.

ANGELA
I’ve been...confused...lately. Ever since Brian wrote that letter, it’s been, like, one revelation after another. You know? And...I don’t know, I mean...it’s Brian! It’s like, not possible, it’s just - I don’t know what to think.

SHARON
What?

ANGELA
That girl that Brian’s with? She’s in my Gym class. And since I saw her with Brian, it’s like...I look at her everyday and think...why her?

(beat)

It should be me.

SHARON
With Brian?

ANGELA
No. Definitely not.

(beat)

But...I know, like...how he looks at me. I just can’t imagine any girl liking him back. Like, is there something about him I never knew?

SHARON
It’s weird.

ANGELA
Exactly.

SHARON
Well, because, to us, he’s still seven years old.

ANGELA
(beat)

I just can’t understand why I feel this jealousy.

 

INT - CHASE RESIDENCE - KITCHEN - NIGHT

Angela and Danielle are seated at the table, eating cereal out of the box together. Patty is standing at the sink, washing dishes, and Graham is looking through the refrigerator. Not once do they look at each other.

PATTY
So...tomorrow’s the big night?

GRAHAM
Yep.

PATTY
(after a long beat)

Excited?

GRAHAM
Yeah.

(beat)

Are you gonna be there?

PATTY
Oh, no, I can’t. I thought I told you, I have a late meeting with some people from Cabrun Ink.

GRAHAM
(not caring)

Oh, okay.

PATTY
I’m sorry.

(beat)

The girls will be there. They can go with Neil.

GRAHAM
It’s okay.

Patty looks at Graham, sorrowfully. Graham doesn’t look back. Angela is sitting at the table, watching them.

ANGELA
(VO)

It’s, like, I can just see my parents’ relationship deteriorating right before my eyes.

 

DISSOLVE TO:

INT - RAYANNE’S APARTMENT - NEXT DAY

It’s the morning of the opening night of the play. Rayanne is eating breakfast and getting ready for school. Amber walks into the kitchen area.

AMBER
So, the big day’s tonight?

RAYANNE
Mm-hmm.

AMBER
Now, you know I can’t make it, right?

RAYANNE
You’re not coming?

AMBER
Oh, honey, I can’t, I though you knew that.

(beat)

There’ll be other shows. I’ll go to the second show. And the third show. I just can’t go tonight. I’m goin’ out with Rusty. I dont know when I’ll be back, so don’t wait up.

RAYANNE
You’re not gonna be there?

AMBER
I’m sorry, Raynie.

(hugs her)

You’re gonna be so good. You’ll stop the show, you’ll see.

 

INT - LIBERTY HIGH SCHOOL - HALLWAY

School has just let out. Most of the students are gone, but Rickie is still there for drama practice. As he walks down the aisle taking posters off the wall, he sees Angela coming down the hallway towards her locker. She stops at her locker and opens it. Rickie moves down along the row of lockers and stops by Angela.

RICKIE
Hey.

ANGELA
(happy)

Hey! I didn’t even see you!

(beat)

I forgot a book, so I ran back. What’s up? God, we haven’t talked in such a long time.

RICKIE
Yeah, I guess we haven’t had much time. I mean, I’ve been busy, I’m sure you have too.

ANGELA
Oh, yeah.

(VO)

That wasn’t it, though. The sad truth is: since Rayanne and I stopped talking, Rickie and I have grown apart, too.

(to Rickie)

Listen, um, can I ask you something? ‘Cause you’re, like, the only one I can still talk to.

RICKIE
Sure.

ANGELA
It’s kind of embarrassing. It’s weird, actually, but I’m starting to think that that letter from Brian was, like, a sign? And that maybe I should, like, heed it, or whatever? ‘Cause lately, I’ve been feeling jealous of Brian’s girlfriend - I have no idea why - and I’ve just been noticing the little things. I mean, the thought, like, sickens me. I mean, not sickens, but I just can’t imagine it, you know? Me and Brian...us. I mean, it’s just weird ‘cause I didn’t expect it, and I don’t know what to do. I mean, on one hand, there’s Jordan. I mean, he’s not perfect, but he’s...well, he’s Jordan. On the other hand, Brian is completely not Jordan. But I’ve known him almost my whole life, and I can, like, talk to him, no matter how much I hate to admit it. I mean, I guess my point is...what should I do?

RICKIE
Okay, Angela, see, the thing is...it’s your life. I really can’t help you make these decisions, because I’m not you. You have to do what you want, what you think is best for you. I mean, I’m sorry I can’t be much help, but it’s true.

ANGELA
(sigh, then a beat)

I just want a little perspective. I've asked you, I've asked Sharon...who else is there?

RICKIE
Well, to be honest, I’m kind of too busy dealing with my own issues. I mean...I may not be able to stay with Mr. Katimski anymore.

ANGELA
Why? What happened?

RICKIE
Foster found out, and, uh...he threatened to fire Mr. Katimski.

ANGELA
What’re you gonna do?

RICKIE
(beat)

Something.

After a long beat...

ANGELA
So, what’re you doin’?

RICKIE
Just taking these posters down. The play opens tonight, so...we don’t really need them.

ANGELA
It’s tonight?

RICKIE
Yeah.

ANGELA
Oh.

(beat)

There’ll be other shows, right?

RICKIE
Yeah.

ANGELA
‘Cause the thing is, my dad’s restaurant opens tonight.

RICKIE
Really? Wish him luck for me. I wish I could be there.

ANGELA
Yeah, well, I wish I couldn’t be there, but I have to go, so...

(beat)

But, like I said, I’ll come to the next show.

RICKIE
It’s okay. Just...whatever’s, like, good for you.

ANGELA
I’ll definitely come.

(beat)

Anyway...I better let you finish up and get ready for tonight.

RICKIE
Okay, yeah, I have to get back to practice. I’ll see ya.

Angela walks down the hall and out the door. Rickie watches her, then collects the last few posters hanging on the wall. He gathers them up and holds them under his arm. He walks down the hall and dumps them in a large trash bin. Afterwards, he continues walking down the hall until he comes to a room. A sign is taped to the door, which reads "DRAMA MEETING." The door is half open, and Rickie looks inside. He sees a mess of people getting ready for the play that night. Past all the commotion, Mr. Katimski stands there, calm and collected, instructing everyone. Rickie looks sad. He turns away and walks forward, walking through a door and out of the school.

 

INT - GLASS MOON - DINING ROOM - NIGHT

The place is packed with customers. Waitresses are taking orders. Food is being eaten. People are talking. The water fountain finally has water. It’s a real restaurant. Graham is standing in the back of the dining room, by the kitchen door. He straightens his tie, then looks around the room, smiling. Then, he notices a man walk in. The man is in his early sixties, looking very distinguished in a suit and tie. Graham recognizes him immediately. Hallie walks by Graham and Graham stops her.

GRAHAM
You see that guy?

Hallie turns her head and looks at him.

GRAHAM
(nervous)

Don’t look!

HALLIE
(laughs)

Well, who is he?

GRAHAM
Robert LeMonde. He’s one of the most respected restaurant critics in Pennsylvania. His opinion means everything. To a lot of people, his opinions are plain fact. And he’s here. I don’t think I need to tell you how important this is.

HALLIE
No.

Hallie starts to walk towards the man to who is waiting to be seated, but Graham stops her.

GRAHAM
Wait, one thing. Don’t act like you know who is. He doesn’t like it when people know he’s a critic, because then he’ll think we’re just pandering to him, and maybe the food and the service isn’t always this good. Just don’t say his name or anything.

HALLIE
Well, that’s good, ‘cause I already forgot it.

She laughs and walks towards LeMonde to greet and seat him. Graham watches, and after she takes him to his seat, Neil walks in with Angela and Danielle, all dressed up. Graham smiles and meets them at the door.

GRAHAM
Hey, Neil, thanks for comin’.

NEIL
I can’t believe this. You actually did this.

GRAHAM
Yep.

(beat)

I thought Marla was comin’.

NEIL
(shakes his head)

We’ll talk about that later.

GRAHAM
Ah.

(beat; to the girls)

So, whadda ya want to eat?

DANIELLE
Can I have French fries?

ANGELA
Danielle, it’s not that kind of place. They don’t have French fries.

GRAHAM
Actually, since I knew you’d ask for them, we do have French fries for one night only.

 

INT - LIBERTY HIGH - AUDITORIUM - BACKSTAGE - NIGHT

Backstage, it is also bustling. Dozens of people are going over their lines, putting on their costumes, setting up props, and making any other last-minute preparations. Rayanne peaks out at the large audience through the curtain. She is nervous, but ready. Mr. Katimski is standing in the back, looking around the room for something.

 

INT - KATIMSKI’S HOUSE - NIGHT

The front door opens and Rickie steps into the living room, looking around. He walks into the dining room, still seeing no one.

RICKIE
Anyone home?

(beat)

Hello?

Sensing no one around, Rickie opens a cabinet and takes out a piece of paper and a pen. He sits down at a table and looks at the sheet of paper, staring deeply into it. He puts the sheet of paper down and thinks hard. After a beat, he takes the pen and begins writing.

RICKIE
(VO)

Mr. Katimski, thank you for giving me a home. Thank you for making me feel like I belonged. Thank you for everything. I cannot be responsible for you losing your job. I couldn’t continue living here knowing I caused that. You don’t deserve to be in this situation. I put you in this situation, and there’s only one thing I can do. I have to do this. Thank you again. Rickie.

Rickie puts the sheet of paper on the table and puts the pen on top of it. He gathers a few things and throws them into his school bag. He throws his school bag over his shoulder and walks into the living room. Rickie opens the door, takes one last look into the living room, wipes a tear from his eye, and walks out the door, closing it behind him. The shot of Katimski’s empty living fades to the credits.

 

To be continued...

 

Author’s Notes:
Fumbling Towards Ecstasy can be found on Sarah McLachlan’s 1993 album Fumbling Towards Ecstasy.

Opening Night, Part 2 has already been written and will be available with the next update.

Feedback is very welcomed. Even if you hated this story. I’ll just be happy knowing someone read it.

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Episode No. 26 - Opening Night - Part 2 by Jim Brooks
Published: 06 Sep 2001 | Size: 83 KB (16377 words) | Language: english english | Rating: PG-13
Average: 4.2/5   4.2/5 (84 votes)

Read this story now: Episode No. 26 - Opening Night - Part 2
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Average: 4.0/5   4.0/5 (83 votes)
  • KGK commented on 16 Jul 2000:
    I really enjoyed this story and I look foreward to reading part 2.
  • William commented on 01 Oct 2000:
    Brian has a girlfriend? Uh oh, here we go! ;) Seriously though, real good story. The dialogue was very MSCL-ish.
  • Cat commented on 21 Oct 2000:
    I was always a big fan of the show when I was in high school and was very disappointed when it was cancelled, so reading the fanfiction here is like watching non-existant seasons. You are doing a great job with your stories! I love them! Keep up the great work!! :)
  • Paula commented on 11 Apr 2001:
    I read all your stories and even though Im quite past high school I could not help but to get so involved with your continuations that I was disappointed there was noOpening Night 2 :( Hope you post it soon.. From Australia with Love, Paula
  • Chris commented on 20 Jan 2002:
    A fine story. Keep up the good work!
  • Leah commented on 11 Apr 2002:
    Au contraire, I thought 'Accidents Happen' was really good. Picturing Brian Krakow driving downtown in the middle of the night to rescue Angela was heart-wrenching because I can TOTALLY see him doing something like that. The dialogue also does capture the spirit of the MSCL episodes. I liked how it tied into this script (although the whole accident was sort of glossed over -- understandable with your hiatus, though). It does sort of kill me that it's not when he gets into a car accident over her that Angela realises Brian's heartfelt devotion and personal value -- it's only when jealousy rears its ugly head and she actually sees him showing interest in somebody else that she starts to see him differently. It's an accurate portrayal, though, so kudos for getting that right! I relate mostly to Brian Krakow, so it was nice to see him getting a little attention in the end ;-)
  • Jim Brooks commented on 15 May 2002:
    Leah, looking back on it, the accident was a bad idea, so that's why I glossed over it because I didn't want to expand on a bad idea. But at the same time, I didn't want to completely ignore it like it never happened. Kind of like in MSCL when Angela and Jordan break-up in "Pressure" and then they're back together at the beginning of the next episode. I figured if MSCL did it, I could do it once. But you make a good point about Angela only seeing something in Brian when he finally stops seeing something in her. And it was semi-intentional on my part for her to not realize that when he does this huge favor for her but instead when she feels jealous that she's not the center of his attention. Although I think throughout the series, she's always known how he feels in the back of her mind, but only when he no longer feels this way does she come to terms with it.

    Anyway, sorry for this long-winded post on my own story; just wanted to explain something.
  • Kym commented on 04 Jun 2002:
    I think that we should not get too into Jordan's homelife, and how he communicates with his father
    And we don't need to be told why Rayanne is like she is, just let it be.. her life with amber explains enough
    Excellent stuff between Ricki and Katimski -- VERY GOOD story plot
    When jordan asks Angela if she knows what he'll do when he gets out of school, she should answer
    "make snow?" it would be funny
    The 19 shows were all leading up to the point that Jordan is intelligent, different characters say it, he shows it, he is able to grasp a concept like irony and reapply it to patty's situation, Angela does not think he is dumb
    i disagree that the chase's marriage is falling apart, #19 showed things were going to be ok ( I'm sorry, know that this is what you think might have happened, but I enjoy your stories, and just want them to be as close as possible to the real show)
    i do like how angela is seeing brian differently and that she realizes what he's worth after he's not hers (we see this foreshadowed in "Life of Brian" when she walks by the classroom and sees Brian w/ Delia) but I'm not sure if Angela would say sh wasjealous, maybe someone would have to suggest it to her.
    keep writing, I enjoy your series
  • Julie commented on 19 Aug 2004:
    you stopped writing :(
  • Becca commented on 24 Dec 2004:
    This was a very good read. As a teacher now (English teacher to be precise!) instead of a student, I appreciate your insight into the world of the Liberty High faculty. I, too, have wanted to reach out to some of my less fortunate students, and it's so hard not to be more of a factor in their lives for fear of a lawsuit or a lost job. Rickie's heartfelt act of kindness towards Mr. K. was both accurate and inspiring. I'm sure Angela's family would take him in again knowing his situation, and he might be able to mitigate things a bit between Graham and Patty, or at least show the Chase family how fortunate they are to remain together under one roof.
  • Michele gave this story a 5.0/5 5.0/5 rating and commented on 03 Jun 2013:
    Actually, when the show was released on DVD years later, Winnie Holzman said that had the show continued, she would have broken up the Chases' marriage; it was obviously leading up to that in episode 19. Things were definitely NOT fine. Graham and Hallie almost kissed! She also said that Katimskie would have gotten into trouble and that she would have had Patti be the one to help him, and it would bring her out of the deep depression her divorce had led to. Jim, you did an excellent job with these! You are obviously very familiar with the show, and I am thoroughly enjoying these!
  • Kathy gave this story a 5.0/5 5.0/5 rating and commented on 27 Dec 2014:
    I'm living reading these. 20 yrs after watching the original show and I just re watched it on Amazon or Netflix, I forget, and fell in love all over again. How heart wrenching it was when it ended. But these fan fics have been an awesome find... Anyone still active on here??
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“And, you know, with your hair like that? It hurts to look at you.”

Rayanne Graff, Episode 1: "My So-Called Life (Pilot)"