"...And Miles To Go Before I Sleep..."

Opening Act

Scene opens at County ER...interior...daytime...front counter nurses station. Focus on Randi as she is passing out mail. Carol Hathaway is looking over her shoulder helping her. Mark Greene and Kerry Weaver are working at one end of the counter. John Carter is working close to the computers, Doug Ross is sifting through files at the end of the counter alone.

Randi (handing letter):
Dr. Weaver...from the Association of Medical Professionals...

Mark (looks up):
Another published article?

Kerry (takes letter):
I don't think so...
(she takes the letter and starts opening it)

Randi (handing card):
Dr. Carter...postcard from your parents...

Carter (takes cards and looks at it):
Thank you!

Mark (peers over Carter's shoulder):
Another vacation?

Carter (nods):
Yeah. They went to Russia. My Dad's really big on the ballet over there.

Randi (reaching):
Pediatric Journal for Dr. Ross...

Mark (brightly):
Now, THAT'S going to be a published article! I didn't even know you finished it!

Doug (takes magazine...chuckles lightly):
Neither did I!
(looks at Carol)
You sent this in, didn't you?

Carol:
Well, yeah...I just took all your notes and did them on the computer here when work was slow. You did all the work. All I did was edit it!

Doug (grins):
What WOULD I do without her?
(opens magazine)
I'm on page 42...

Kerry (encouraging):
That's good! Center of the magazine. It'll be hard to miss there.

Mark (inches over):
Well, let us have a look...

Carol (looks over Doug's shoulder):
Did they print the picture I sent?

Doug (dumbfounded):
You sent a picture?

Carol (shrugs):
Well, sure! Kerry said I should!

Kerry (nods):
Absolutely! In your case if you can't get their attention with your credentials, you'll get them to look! Then, maybe they'll take time to read it!
(everyone chuckles...Doug blushes slightly)

Carol (snatches magazine away from Doug...reads aloud):
Dr. Ross is a member of staff of County ER specializing in Pediatric Medicine, a recent recipient of a local community service award for service above and beyond the call of duty and an avid Chicago Sports enthusiast.

Doug (embarrassed...tries to snatch magazine away):
And what exactly does all of that have to do with my article?

Carol (pulls magazine away):
Nothing...just a little personal inside for the readers that I threw in there for you.

Doug (rolls his eyes):
You sent them a bio??

Carol ( defensively):
Kerry told me to!

Doug (sarcastically to Kerry):
Thank you SO much.

Kerry (smiles):
Be a good sport, Doug. We're all really proud of you. We want everybody to see you. And know about you.

Mark (pats Doug on the shoulder):
Absolutely!

Doug (lays magazine down):
Well, I'll leave this out here and anybody that wants to is welcome to read it, just please be sure I get it back.

Randi (holds up letter):
Last piece...Carol
(reaches it to her)

Carol (takes letter):
Department of Social Services?
(confused look)
What on earth...?
(opens the letter and begins reading...excited reaction)
Oh, My God! Are they kidding?
(looks at envelope again)
Please tell me this isn't a joke!

Mark (reaches for letter):
What? What is it?

Carol (excitedly):
It's a letter from the Adoption Committee...Tatiana is still available for adoption!

Kerry:
The little girl you tried to adopt a while back?

Carol (nods, excitedly):
Yes! And this letter says my Petition For Appeal has been granted! I'm getting a Review!

Mark (smiles):
That's great, Carol.

Carol (confused):
Wait a minute...what petition for Appeal? I never filed an appeal on that. I just sort of gave it up as a lost cause.

Doug (nonchalantly...working on a file):
I filed it for you.

Carol (gives him a look):
You did what?

Doug (looks up at her to judge her tone...shrugs his shoulders):
Well, they turned you down on technicalities after they had already cleared you, so, I went down the next morning and had some choice words with the head idiot and I filed the appeal.

Carol (dumb struck):
Without discussing it with me first?

Doug (stumbles with his words):
Well, I just thought...

Carol (sternly):
You just thought you would make a major decision in my life without telling me about it first! God! Will you just never change, Doug?

Focus on Doug's perplexed look as he ponders for words in this situation. Rest of the staff turns away from Carol's stern look and goes about their own way quickly.

End Opening Act focused on Carol's stern look for Doug and fade into the opening credits of the show.

"ER"

"...And Miles To Go Before I Sleep..."

Act One

Continue scene from end of opening act with Carol still giving Doug a stern look and Doug still looking perplexed at her.

Carol (sternly):
How could you do something like that without discussing it with me first?

Doug (dumbfounded):
I didn't think you'd mind...

Carol (cuts in):
You didn't THINK, period! You made a major decision in MY life without even including me in it! How could you DO that, Doug?

Doug can't answer...just gives her a confused look. He is taken aback by her anger. Carol looks around to notice all eyes on them as they argue at the desk. so, she steps around it in front of Doug and takes him with her by one arm.

Carol:
I'd like to continue this discussion with you privately, please, Doug.

Doug unwillingly follows Carol into the staff lounge as she drags him with her. Once behind closed doors, Carol lets go of his arm and turns to face him, tongue lashing cued and ready.

Carol:
That is the most self-centered, unthinking, careless thing you've ever done to me! How could make a decision in my life like that without talking to me about it?
(Before Doug can answer, Carol wraps both arms around his neck and kisses him sweetly)
You are the most beautiful, considerate WONDERFUL man I've ever known in my life and I LOVE you!

Doug (recovers):
You mean you're not really mad?

Carol (shrugs):
Well, I am a little upset that you wouldn't talk to me about it, but, how can I be mad? This is a BEAUTIFUL thing to do!

Doug (grins):
Well, it's good you're not mad, because I had a come back all prepared! What's the difference between what I did and you finishing my article AND sending a picture and a bio with it?

Carol (grins, still has her arms locked around his neck):
Ah, the difference would be that I did yours for your career! What's your excuse?

Doug (sincerely):
I did yours for your happiness.

Carol (sits on the table):
When did you do this?

Doug (leans on the table with her):
The morning after you were at my place.

Carol:
Well, what did you say to them?

Doug:
I told them that I didn't understand a committee that took something away once it was already promised, which they did with you, because they had already told you it was approved. Then, they found out about the pills and changed their mind. I told the idiot in charge that in my line of work I had to see kids every day that the system forced me to give back to parents who would just do the same thing again and I would have these kids back in my ER in less than a month, or read their obituary in the paper, yet, they couldn't see fit to give a kid to someone who made ONE mistake ONE time in their life? It didn't make any sense...

Carol:
And that was all it took?

Doug (shifts his weight...looks at his feet):
Well, that was part of it.

Carol (coaxing look):
There was something else?

Doug (looks at his hands...not sure he wants to tell her):
Nothing important. Nothing about you.

Carol:
Something, though...what?

Doug (sighs):
One of the other reasons they withdrew the petition was because they found out Tag wasn't supportive of your plans.

Carol (taken aback):
What? They KNEW that?

Doug (nods, sadly):
Apparently, Tag must have been the one who spilled the beans about the pills. I can't think of any other way they would have known. No one else here would have told them.

Carol (dumbfounded expression):
Surely he wouldn't have...
(looks at Doug hopefully)
Would he?
(Doug shrugs)
Well, he never wanted her. I knew that. But, I didn't think he'd go that far.

Doug (encouraging):
Well, I don't have any real proof...it's just my suspicion.

Carol (sighs):
Oh, you're probably right.
(looks at him directly)
But, now it involves you. And we're not just engaged. We're married. You'll be involved in this with me, now, right?

Doug (shakes his head):
No. I want you to do this on your own.

Carol:
On my own? But, I'm not on my own anymore. My life is your life now. This decision effects you as well as me! I can't do this without you...

Doug (turns to face her...takes her by the shoulders):
Yes, you can! And I want you to! I want this to be your project all on your own! I want you to prove to yourself you can do this, because I know you can!

Carol (nervous smile):
But, what about you? You DO want her, don't you? I mean, if this goes through, you'll be happy about it, won't you?

Doug (nods):
Of course! I'm a Pediatrician, Carol! Kids are my life! And if you get to bring that little girl into our home, then, we're ready to start a family.

Carol (rubs his arms):
You're sure?

Doug (smiles):
Absolutely.

Carol (looks at her feet):
You're always looking out for me, Doug. What would I do if you weren't there for me sometimes?

Doug (changes the tone):
You'll just never know, will you?

He helps her off the table and they leave the lounge together. When Doug opens the door, staff members who had been trying to listen in on the conversation scatter quickly.

Cut scene.

Open next scene with Doug and Mark up on the hospital roof. Mark is working to try and open a bag of chips...Doug is sipping on a can of soda.

Mark (sincerely):
That was a really nice thing you did for Carol...is she really mad at you?

Doug (grins):
You were listening in at the door...what do you think?

Mark (ducks the issue):
When you filed it, you and Carol weren't even back together yet. She was still with Tag. Why would you do that?

Doug (leans on the rail, looks at Mark, and squints into the sun):
Because I think Carol would be a really good Mom. And I think she could give that little girl everything she's missing. She made one mistake. And she's more than made up for it. She deserves her chance.

Mark:
That what you told the Adoption Committee?

Doug (chuckles):
Well, maybe I didn't use those exact words...
(Mark chuckles lightly)

Mark:
I can just about imagine.
(Mark shifts the tone, gives Doug a serious look)
But, it isn't just about Carol anymore, now, you know. You're involved in this now, too.

Doug (shakes his head):
I told Carol to pursue it on her own. I want her to do this herself to prove to herself she can.

Mark (confused):
You mean adopt Tatiana on her own?

Doug (nods):
Exactly.

Mark:
But, you two are married now...this needs to be a supported project...

Doug:
It is! Carol has my total support. And I'll tell the committee that when they talk to me. But, I want all the interviews and meetings to be with Carol on her own. She needs to know that she can do this.

Mark:
Well, have you considered the adjustments the two of you will have to make if the adoption goes through? I mean, you've only been married a few months...adding a child to that might not be exactly paradise.
(Doug listens...does not interrupt)
I mean, kids are great, and I know you know kids, but, it's hard enough for me being a father when I've been one for eight years. I don't know how I'd handle being a full time father on a sudden basis.

Doug (shrugs):
I figure I've never been a full time Dad and Carol's never been a full time Mom, and Tati's never had full time parents, so, we'll all just learn together.

Mark (nods):
That's a great theory, but, it might not be as easy as it sounds.
(Doug shrugs)
Still, I tip my hat to your efforts. I wish you both the best.

Doug (smiles):
Thanks.

Mark:
If the committee needs a recommendation from me for Carol, she's got it, OK?

Doug (nods):
Thanks. I'm sure she'll appreciate that.

Mark leans on the rail with Doug and offers him chips from the bag. Doug responds by thrusting his hand into the bag.

Cut scene.

Open next scene back in the ER. Doug is coming through the hallway. Kerry Weaver meets him at the desk holding a chart.

Kerry:
Five year old in three with a fever...

Doug (snatches chart):
I got it.

Doug goes into the exam room to find the little girl sitting nervously on the table. Her mother is standing close beside her and she is clutching s doll in her hands. Doug smiles and pulls the stool close to the table to talk to the child.

Doug:
Hi. I'm Dr. Ross. What's your name?

Girl:
Brianne.

Doug (cheerfully):
Brianne? That's a very pretty name.

Brianne:
What's your first name?

Doug:
It's Doug.

Brianne (smiles at him):
That's a nice name, too.
(Holds up his doll to show him)
This is Tiffany.

Doug (shakes the doll tiny hand gently):
Well, hello, Tiffany, it's very nice to meet you. Is Tiffany sick too?

Mother:
Tiffany is the reason we're here. She came to me complaining for Tiffany and I realized she was running a fever.

Doug (nods...understands):
So, Brianne, what seems to be Tiffany's problem?

Brianne:
She has a bad sore throat. And her ears hurt.

Doug (nods...understands...takes a tongue depressor from the tray):
I see. Well, do you think Tiffany would let me look at her throat?

Brianne (timidly):
I don't know.

Doug:
Tell you what...why don't you let me look at your throat? Then Tiffany will see it's OK and she'll let me look at hers? OK?

Brianne nods and slowly opens her mouth. Doug places the depressor on her tongue and looks into her mouth with a penlight flashlight.

Doug (snaps off the flashlight):
That wasn't so bad, was it?

Brianne (shakes her head):
No.
(looks at doll)
Now it's your turn.

The doll has an open mouth and Doug gently lays the depressor inside the doll's mouth and looks at it the same way he looked in Brianne's mouth.

Doug (snaps off light):
Uh huh. You're both pretty red in there.
(picks up ear scope from the tray)
OK, Tiffany...let's have a look here.

Doug places the ear scope into the dolls ear and pretends to look into it. He looks in both ears. Then he turns to Brianne.

Doug (smiles):
Tiffany says it's your turn.

Brianne closes her eyes tight as Doug looks into both of her ears with the scope. He lays the scope down when he's finished and feels the child's neck and throat area carefully with his fingers. Then he is careful to do the exact same thing to the doll.

Doug (smiles):
OK, girls, you just sit tight for a minute while I talk to your Mom, OK?

Brianne nods and clutches Tiffany in her arms. Doug steps a few steps away from the table with the mother.

Doug:
She has some minor inflammation in the ears, but, the biggest problem is Tonsillitis. I'm going to give her something for the fever and you can take her home, but, when the fever goes away, I suggest you see your own pediatrition and set up surgery to have her tonsils removed.

Mother (nervously):
What are you going to give her?

Doug (shrugs):
Just a prescription for ibuprofen. She should be fine by tomorrow.

Mother (relieved):
No needles?

Doug (smiles):
No...no needles.

Mother (hand to her chest):
Thank heavens! I promised her she wouldn't get a shot.

Doug (turns back to Brianne):
OK, girls...
(rips out a pad and starts writing the script)
I'm gonna give you both some pills to take and you should both be fine in no time.

Brianne (to Tiffany):
Did you hear that? Mommy was right! No needles! He's a GOOD doctor!

Mother (takes Brianne by the hand):
Thank you, Dr. Ross.

Doug (smiles):
No problem.

Mother (starts away...looks at prescription and turns back):
Dr. Ross?

Doug (turns his attention to her):
Yes?

Mother (pointing for him to see):
I know what this is...but, what's that?

Doug (smiles):
Those are for Tiffany!
(whispers to the Mother)
They're complimentary and they're just candy...since we both know who's going to take them.

Mother (smiles):
Thank you, Dr. Ross.

Doug (smiles):
You're welcome.

Brianne:
Good bye, Dr. Ross! Tiffany says you're a good doctor.

Doug (walks with them):
Well, you and Tiffany were both excellent patients.

Doug walks out with both of them and is unaware that Mark and Carol witnessed the whole exam from the doorway. He walks away and on down the hall.

Carol (focused on watching Doug go):
He's going to be a WONDERFUL 'Daddy', isn't he Mark?

Mark (nods, nervously):
Well, it would seem that way...if he can hold that mood for the next twelve years or so...

Focus on Doug as he walks his young patient out. Pull back to show Carol smiling as she watches him.

Fade Act One To Black.

"ER"

"...And Miles To Go Before I Sleep..."

Act Two

Scene opens at the front desk...action is slow. Doug Ross is working on files by the computer. John Carter is working on the computer. Randi and E Ray are working behind the counter. Kerry Weaver is leafing through Doug's article in the magazine.

Kerry (quietly to Doug):
You did a really good job on this article, Doug.

Doug:
I did?

Kerry:
Yeah, you really did. You should be really pleased with yourself.

Doug:
I should?

Kerry (laughs lightly):
Yeah! You should! You worked hard on this, Doug! And it shows. You did good. Take a little pride in yourself. You deserve it.

Doug (quietly):
I didn't want to make a big deal out of it, you know?

Kerry (knowingly):
Because of Mark?

Doug (shrugs):
Well, you know, he's tried several times to write something for publication and I just didn't want to make him look bad.

Kerry (shakes her head):
Won't happen. Mark is as proud of your accomplishment as anyone else in this hospital! Don't sell yourself short. You did great. Will you be writing again in the future?

Doug:
I'm not sure...depends on who asks me, I guess.

Kerry:
Well, if anyone does, don't hesitate. You have a good way with words. And a style that anyone can understand what you're trying to say. I suppose all that training talking to kids on their level taught you that.

Doug:
And this is a good thing, right?

Kerry (laughs at his remark):
Yes, it's a good thing! Honestly, Doug, I think you've brow beaten yourself into thinking you can't do anything right sometimes. You really need to give yourself a break.

Their attention is distracted by Carol Hathaway, who comes in with Tatiana by the hand. proudly showing the shy little girl around the ER.

Carol (stops at Doug):
You remember Dr. Ross, don't you, Tatchie?

Doug (smiles at the little girl):
Hi, Tatchie...how are you sweetie?

Tatiana (very shyly):
Hi.

Carol (points to Kerry):
And this is Dr. Weaver...
(spins her around)
And Dr. Carter...

Carter (smiles warmly):
Hello, Tatiana. It's good to see you again.

Kerry (smiles at Carol):
Visitation day already?

Carol (excited):
The committee said I could take her and keep her today and see how things go. We went to the park and we had lunch at a real restaurant...she's never eaten off a real plate before! It's been great!

Kerry (to Tatiana):
Have you had a good day with Carol?
(Tatiana nods excitedly...Kerry turns to Carol quietly)
Does she know?

Carol:
Well, we talked a little bit about it. She knows a little. I didn't want to tell her too much because I didn't want to get her hopes up after what happened the last time.

Kerry (nods):
Probably a good move.

Doug starts to step around Carol and Tatiana. When he steps towards them, Tatiana quickly hides behind Carol to avoid being touched by Doug as he passes by.

Doug (lightly):
I'm sorry, Sweetie! Did I scare you?
(Tatiana nods her head quickly)
Well, I didn't mean to! Next time, I'll just give you a little more warning before I move, OK?
(Tatiana nods again. Doug smiles)

Carol catches the look at despair from Doug and takes that as a cue to talk to him.

Carol:
Carter, could you keep an eye on Tatiana for me for just a minute?

Carter (looks up...smiles):
Sure.

Carol (bends down to Tatiana):
Tatchie, you stay with Dr. Carter for a minute, OK? I'll be right back! I need to talk to Dr. Ross.

Tatiana (quietly):
OK.

Carol motions Doug to follow her into an empty exam room. She closes the door so they can talk privately, but she can still see Tatiana out the window.

Carol (explaining):
She's a little afraid of men...just give her some time, OK?

Doug:
I just hope how she reacts to me doesn't hamper your case any.

Carol (shakes her head quickly):
Oh, it won't. I'm sure of it. Everything's gone so great today! I'd get excited if I wasn't so afraid...

Doug (rubs her arms with his hands):
Will you STOP worrying? Everything is gonna be fine. Have faith.

Carol (nervously):
I had faith before and it got taken away. If it falls through this time, I don't know what I'll do...

Doug:
You'll try again! And again everytime after that until it goes through. I know you. You're not a quitter.

Carol (quietly):
Do you really think I'm doing the right thing?

Doug (nods):
I can't think of anyone who can give that little girl more than you can. And she likes you! She looks really natural out there with you. Everything is gonna be fine. You'll see.

Carol:
I want to believe that...I'm just so afraid...

Doug:
Don't be afraid. Just be the Carol Hathaway I know so well.

Carol:
Well, don't you worry, OK? That she was afraid of you. She'll get used to you the more she's around you. Just be patient with her, OK?

Doug (grins):
Sure.

Carol excitedly exits the room and goes back to Tatiana. Doug watches through the glass at the two of them together with a smile.

Cut scene.

Open next scene with Carol working now, Tatiana is enjoying a sucker and is sitting in a chair behind where Carol is working. Doug is working on the computer. Randi comes through with a chart.

Randi (handing him chart):
Got an eight year old girl in two bleeding from the ears.

Doug (looks up...takes chart):
Yeah! OK!

Doug takes the chart and goes to the exam room, where he finds a little girl sitting timidly on the table and her father standing close by. The father is edgy and Doug gives him a suspicious eye as he stands close to his patient and directs his attention to her.

Doug (cheerfully):
Hi, Sweetheart…what's your name?

Child doesn't answer. She pulls away from Doug and looks nervously at her father. Doug looks up at the man and frowns.

Doug:
You wanna tell me what happened?

Father (gruffly):
She was running and she hit the wall.

Doug (sarcastically):
With the side of her head?

Father (nods):
Yeah.

Doug (nods with a sigh):
OK, sweetie, let me just have a look, OK?

He reaches for the ear scope on the tray beside him. The child never takes her eyes away. She shifts them nervously between Doug, his hands, and her father.

Doug:
Lie back, sweetie.

He starts to lay the child down on the table, but, she stiffens up in his hands. Her eyes flash fear and she never takes her eyes away from her father. Doug eyes him suspiciously.

Doug (to the father):
Would you mind waiting outside for a minute? Please?

The father steps slowly away. Doug goes to the door way behind him and turns his attention to Carol.

Doug:
Carol, could you find Dr. Greene for me, please? I need some assistance in here.

Carol (nods):
Sure. Anything I can help with?

Doug (shakes his head):
No, I need Mark. Thanks.

Doug goes back to his patient. Carol begins to work to find Mark.

Doug (to his patient):
OK, sweetie, can you tell me your name?

Girl:
Beth.

Doug (nods):
Can you tell me where you're hurt, Beth?

Beth (points to her left ear):
It hurts inside.

Doug:
Can you tell me what happened?

Beth:
I was running in the house and I fell over my skates and I hit the wall really hard.

Doug (nods):
OK...

Cut to show Mark entering the room quickly.

Mark:
Carol said you needed me?

Doug (nods over his shoulder):
Yeah, I want you to have a look at this with me...and I want to order a full series of x-rays...head to toe.

Mark:
For a head injury?

Doug:
And possibly more.

Mark:
Is she hurt anyplace besides her head?
(Doug shakes his head)
Then that's all you can x-ray.

Doug starts to protest, but thinks better of it in front of the child. He walks quickly over and rips open the door.

Doug:
Carol, I'm sending this little girl up to CT. I want a full skull series and I want to see her again as soon as she's back.

Carol (looks up):
Sure thing, Doug.

Doug (emphasizing):
NOW, please?

Carol quickly darts from around the counter to assist the little girl. Once the child is out of the room, Doug slams the door and turns angrily to Mark.

Doug:
That lousy son of a bitch out there beat the hell out of this kid and you aren't going to give me anything ammunition for that?

Mark:
I can't let you order tests that aren't necessary to diagnose the injury based on pure suspicion on your part, no!

Doug (shouting):
Suspicion? Are you nuts? You saw the bruise on that kid's ear the same as I did! You know what put it there! He took a ball bat and bashed that kid in the head with it!

Mark (shouting back, trying to calm Doug):
Did you see him do it, Doug? Were you standing there watching when he did it?

v Doug (flustered):
Well...NO...but...

Mark (cuts in):
But, nothing! You have no proof! You have your theory and nothing else! Now, all you can do here is treat the injury in question and if you have suspicions about how she got it, you can report it to child services and that is ALL you can do about it!

Doug (frustrated...trying to calm his voice):
Come ON, Mark! You saw that kid same as I did! You KNOW she's sustained a blunt trauma to the head...

Mark (nodding):
Yes, I know that! And I agree with everything you're saying about it. But, I'm telling you from a professional point of view, your hands are tied! All you can do is report it and let her go.

Doug:
She'll be back in this ER inside a week...

Mark:
Maybe so, but, there's nothing you can do about that. You job is to fix what's broken. It's somebody's else's job to take action in her favor.

Doug:
Yeah, but they don't DO it! They keep kids away from somebody like Carol, who is capable of giving them love and attention, just because she took a bunch of pills ONE time but they'll give it back to a monster like this kid's father until he kills her! What's WRONG with this picture, Mark?

Mark:
There's a lot of things wrong with it. I agree with you. And I know taking responsibility for Scott has given you stronger paternal feelings. And Carol taking on this adoption thing is also playing on your feelings. But, you can't take these matters into your own hands, Doug! You have to just turn it over to the authorities and let it go. I know it's hard. I see if every day. And I'm not any happier about it than you are. But, that's the way we have to do it.

Doug turns away in frustration and slams his fist against the table behind him. Mark reaches over and places a gentle hand on his friend's shoulder.

Mark (comfortingly):
I know it's hard...especially for you...but you remember what happened the last time you lost your cool with a parent?

Doug (nods):
Yeah...I remember.

Mark:
And I don't think you want to go through that again.

Doug (shakes his head):
No.

Mark (pats his back gently):
OK...so, you OK with this now?

Doug:
Not OK with it...but under control.

Mark walks out and leaves Doug standing there thinking. Follow Doug as he walks out close behind Mark, passes behind the counter, picks up the phone and starts punching a number. He smiles sadly at Carol. Carol reaches over and strokes Tatiana's hair gently.

Fade Act Two To Black.

"ER"

"...And Miles To Go Before I Sleep..."

Act Three

Scene opens in the hallway of the ER. Doug Ross is pacing, waiting for the results of his CT patient to return when Nina Pomerantz gets off the elevator, nearly knocking him over since he is standing so close.

Nina (reaches out to steady both of them):
Sorry, Doug! I didn't see you there!

Doug (apologetically):
It's OK. It's my fault. I'm just a little edgy right now waiting for a test.

Nina (smiles..starts on by):
Well, I hope you get the results you need.

Doug (walks after her quickly):
I wanted to see you, anyway, so, I'm glad we ran into each other...

Nina (stops...turns to face him):
Do you need me to schedule you in?

Doug (shakes his head):
No, no, it's not like that. I don't need to "see" you, see you...I was just wondering if you might happen to have any pamphlets up there on the cycles and effects of child abuse.

Nina (sad face):
Oh, it's one of THOSE days, is it? You have to deal with so much of that, I guess. Sure, I have some things up there. Just stop up a little later on and I'll have them for you, OK?

Doug (nods):
Great. Thanks, Nina. I appreciate it.

Nina (catches his look):
Anything you want to talk about?

Doug (shakes his head):
Not right now. Let me read some of this stuff first and maybe we'll talk after, OK?

Nina (smiles...nods):
You know where to find me.

Doug nods and lets her go on off alone while he turns back to pace in front of the elevator again.

Cut Scene.

Open next scene with Mark and Doug hanging up the x-ray results to look them over together. As soon as the prints hit the light, Doug is up close to look at them very carefully.

Doug (anger rising):
At least three other healed fractures! This isn't the first time he's done this...just the first time he hurt her enough he felt he needed to bring her to the ER!
(starts for the door in his rage)
Son of a bitch!

Mark (reacts quick...reaches out to grab Doug by the arm but can't catch him):
Doug! No! Don't!

Mark's words fail to turn or stop Doug, who has proceeded into the hallway in search of the abusive father. Mark races after him and catches him at the end of the hallway close to the nurses' station just as he reaches the waiting area but before he can confront the father.

Mark (sternly):
Doug! Just go on back to your patient!

Doug (looks past Mark to glare at the father):
Getting in a little batting practice today were you, pal? Why don't you try swinging it at someone big enough to swing it back!?

Mark (pulls Doug back...tries to turn him away):
Doug! Go back to your patient NOW!

Doug (reaches past Mark...tries to make contact with the father but can't because Mark is in the way):
You wanna try batting with ME, pal? Huh?

Mark (shoves Doug back):
DOUG! I'm telling you to go back to your patient! If I have to call security to escort you out of here, you're looking at serious trouble with me! Now, save yourself from it and walk out of here NOW!

Doug turns away and begins to retreat, but keeps looking over his shoulder at the father, who gives Mark a blank stare.

Father (to Mark):
I think he needs some serious help, Doctor. I never touched my kid...

This goes all through Doug, who turns back with a quick lunge, but, is, again, cut off by Mark with a well placed hand to his chest to hold him back.

Mark (very sternly):
DOUG!
(points down the hallway)
Out of here! Now!

Reluctantly, Doug goes on down the hall, still looking over his shoulder as he goes.

Mark (coldly to the father):
Just have a seat...you're not quite ready to leave yet.

The father nods and returns to his seat. Mark goes down the hall to find Doug pacing in an empty exam room. He closes the door to lecture his colleague.

Mark:
You CANNOT go off half cocked like this! You can't afford any more law suits and neither can this hospital!

Doug:
None of them have ever stuck...

Mark:
Well, there's a first time for everything! You get yourself under control and save your personal feelings for the Child Services Worker and let THEM handle it! Do I make myself completely clear to you?

Doug (protesting):
But, Mark, I can't just...

Mark (cuts him off):
You CAN and I'm insisting that you DO! Otherwise, I'm going to have to be watching you like a hawk and I haven't got time for that!

Doug (scoffs):
Just bury my head in the sand like everybody else does? Is that what you want me to do? And let a monster like that kill that kid?

Mark:
Turn it over to Child Services and let them do their job. You do the follow ups if it makes you feel better, but whatever you do, do it within the law, OK?

Doug doesn't answer, just turns away in frustration. Mark gives him a stern look as he starts out of the room.

Mark (quietly):
Child Services is here. I'll handle it from here! You stay down here and cool off, understood?

Doug nods shortly and Mark goes on out of the room. As soon as Mark is gone, Doug slams his fist angrily into the wall in front of him. Before he can recover from that lecture, Carol comes storming in to pick up where Mark left off.

Carol (anger boiling):
Exactly WHAT was that display out there? Didn't you realize Tatiana was watching you? I'm sure your behavior is going to do a lot to calm her fears about you, Doug!

Doug turns to her, but, does not react verbally. His expression is troubled, though, as he listens to her hammer him.

Carol (continues her scolding):
We are bringing a child into our home, Doug...a child whose whole world has been nothing but hell for as long as she can remember! She needs a environment she can grow in...not one that's going to cause her to retreat even further into her shell. Is this the kind of emotion she's going to have to be subjected to in our home? You don't have any better control than this?

Doug (shouting):
A father took a ball bat and bashed his kid in the head with it! You want me to be calm about that?

Carol:
Well, no, but, I expect you to be able to control your temper when you're around Tatiana! I want her to LIKE you, Doug! It's important to whether or not she gets to stay with us!

Doug (assuringly):
She's just a little kid, Carol! She'll be fine with me once she gets to know me! I wasn't yelling at her anyway!

Carol:
But you didn't SEE her! As soon as you started yelling, she just hid behind me. I think she was scared to death you were going to come after her next!

Doug (defensively):
Well, I didn't! OK! She's fine and she was never in my line of fire at all! I'd be happy if I had half the consideration here that you're giving her! It didn't even have anything to do with her!

Carol:
How could you be so selfish? She's a child! You're an adult! You have a comprehension of what's going on! She doesn't! Honestly, Doug, I've never seen you act so uncaring...

Doug (protests):
I care about an eight year old kid with her head bashed in! I hardly think Tatiana falls into that category right now!
Carol gets a little more quiet...Doug's turn to rant.

Doug:
What do you want me to do, Carol? Do you want me to go out there and try to explain to Tatiana what was going on? Do you REALLY think she's going to have any concept of anything I'm going to try and tell her?

Carol (shakes her head):
No...that would only confuse her more, I guess.
(quiet tone)
But, I guess this is the sort of thing we're going to have to think about with a child in the house. We'll both have to think a little more before we react...for her sake.
(gives him a desperate look)
Do you think we're making a mistake?

Doug (smiles):
No. Not at all. Not in the least. Everything will be fine. Please stop worrying!

Carol (looks at him coaxingly):
You DO want her, don't you? You're not afraid of the adjustments we'll have to make if we get her?

Doug:
I absolutely want this little girl to be part of our family. And whatever adjustments we have to make, we'll face when we come to them. OK?

Carol (smiles...nods):
OK.

Carol nods and goes on back to work. Doug, flexes his sore hand carefully and makes a pained face.

Cut scene.

Open next scene in the staff lounge. Doug is taking a break and he is leafing over the literature Nina has given him when Mark comes in. Mark pours himself some coffee and sits down opposite from where Doug is sitting.

Doug (quietly):
How'd it do with Child Services?

Mark:
About as well as can be expected. He's been investigated before. Nothing sticks. I told them about the healed fractures and that seems to shed some new light on things. They'll keep us posted.
(Doug nods with his classic 'huh' grunt)
Veronica asked about you.
(Doug smiles and chuckles)
What did you do to your hand?

Mark motions to Doug's swollen hand. Doug looks at it and shakes his head.

Doug:
Punched the wall.

Mark (shakes his head):
Not a good move.

Doug (matter of factly):
Better than punching you.

Mark (nods):
I'd have to agree with that, yes. Does it hurt?

Doug:
Like hell.

Mark:
Probably should get it x-rayed...can you bend it?

Doug (sarcastically):
If I don't want to breathe for a few minutes.

Mark:
I want to see some x-rays before you do anything else, understood?
(Doug nods, reluctantly)
Reading those for dealing with a parent?
(points to Doug's pamphlets)

Doug (shakes his head):
No...reading them for me.

Mark:
You're worried about abuse? Why?c Doug:
Because Carol and I may be bringing a little girl into our home to live and I want to be sure I can handle that. I started thinking about what you said, and you're right. If Tatiana comes to live with us, it'll be a lot different from having Scott for a weekend. She'll be with us all the time. And I want to be sure I think I can handle that.

Mark (almost laughingly):
Doug, you have the most tolerance for kids of anyone I know! It's adults you have your problems with.

Doug:
I'm just reading, Mark. That's all

Mark:
Well, you're obviously worried about something. You want to talk about it?

Doug (shrugs):
I just wanted to see what these things say about the cycle of abuse...how it continues...and why.

Mark:
Well, you know the answer to that! Abuse comes from abuse. An abused child will likely grow up to be an abusive adult unless the cycle can be broken...
(suddenly, Mark begins to realize what must be on Doug's mind)
Doug, did your Dad abuse you when you were a kid?

Doug (smiles slightly):
Well, not according to these pamphlets...at least not what the experts would classify as abuse, anyway.

Mark:
What the experts think isn't important. What YOU think is what matters. Did your Dad abuse you?

Doug (shrugs):
He smacked me around a few times...mostly when he was drunk...or hung over. I learned pretty quick to just stay out of his way.

Mark:
And you're afraid you might be the same way? You hardly drink anymore. And you had more control than that even when you did. Are you afraid you might hurt Tatiana?

Doug:
I can't imagine that I would, you know? But, in the back of my mind, I have to think about it. I've never been a full time father. I've never been responsible for a kid all day every day. I'm barely able to be responsible for myself sometimes, much less a little kid.

Mark (nods, knowingly):
You talk to Carol about this?

Doug (shakes his head):
No. I don't want to give her something to worry about. She's so excited about how things are going. I don't want anything to spoil that right now.

Mark (shakes his head):
Not good, Doug! You need to talk to Carol about your fears. You two are in this together...

Doug:
It's nothing she needs to worry about right now...

Mark:
Better now than later! If you have qualms about this project, you need to talk to her before it goes too far. Maybe you should talk to Nina as well...

Doug (cuts in):
I intend to talk to Nina. But, I'm not going to bother Carol with this just yet...

Mark:
Well, you know you'll have to tell her sooner or later...I'd opt for sooner in this situation. Don't start your marriage out like this, Doug. Carol is supposed to be your partner. You need to trust her.

Doug (confidently):
I'll deal with this, Mark. It's my problem. Not yours. And not Carol's right now either. She's got enough on her mind without me adding to it...

Mark (nods...starts out of the lounge):
Well, OK. Suit yourself.
(gets to the door and motions back to Doug)
Get that hand checked and see me, OK?

Doug nods that he understands. Mark goes on out of the lounge. Doug picks up his literature from Nina and heads for the door, painfully flexing his sore hand into a soft fist.

Fade Act Three to black.

"ER"

"...And Miles To Go Before I Sleep..."

Act Four

Scene opens in an exam room. Doug is sitting on the table watching as the last stages of a bright blue cast is applied to his right hand by an Ortho doctor. Carol and Tatiana are with him looking on, Carol standing by the table and Tatiana sitting on it with him.

Doctor:
There you go, Doug. You want me to give you a script for some Percodan?

Doug (sighs):
Probably better.

Tatiana (to Ortho doctor):
He looks sad. He was a good patient! Does he get a lollipop?

Doctor (chuckles):
You think he was good enough for a lollipop?
(reaches into a nearby jar and pulls out 2 suckers)
One for my helpful assistant...
(hands sucker to Tatiana who smiles instantly)
...and one for my very good patient.
(pats Doug on the head...Doug frowns sarcastically at him)

Tatiana (takes a lick from her sucker and sighs at Doug):
He still looks sad. Maybe this will help.
(she reaches over and gives him a hug)
Does that help?

Doug (smiles...pats her back gently as she hugs him):
Yeah, sweetie. That helps a lot.

Doctor:
You're all done, Doug.
(sarcastic smile)
Do you want me to write you a note for Dr. Greene?

Doug (slides off the table with a groan):
No, thanks. I can handle Mark.

Doug and Carol start down the hallway with Tatiana in close tow with them. Doug is quiet. And Carol looks over at him with a knowing glance. They get to the counter and Carol stops close to Kerry Weaver, who is working at the computer.

Carol (quietly):
Kerry, are you extra busy right now?

Kerry (shakes her head...doesn't look up):
Not especially...why?

Carol:
Could you keep an eye on Tatiana for me for a few minutes? I need to talk to Doug.

Kerry (nods):
Sure, no problem.
(looks up to notice the cast on Doug's hand and motions to it)
Does the other guy look worse?

Doug (confident smile):
I ALWAYS make the other guy look worse!

Carol (confronting Doug):
Can we talk privately?
(motions to an exam room)
Please?

Doug (motions her to lead the way):
Sure.

Carol and Doug go into an empty exam room and Carol closes the door. She and Doug sit together on the exam table. side by side. Doug is toying with the script in his hand and looking at his feet.

Carol (points to his cast):
Want to tell me what happened?

Doug:
I hit the wall...which was better than hitting Mark...which was what I WANTED to hit. At least the wall can't fire me.
(heaves a sigh)
He's gonna freak out when he sees this.
(taps his cast lightly)

Carol:
What's bugging you, Doug? You've been edgy all day.

Doug (shrugs):
Just having a rough one...

Carol ( shakes her head):
No, I know you. It's more than that. Something's bugging you. You wanna talk to me about it?
(Doug shrugs again)
Does it have anything to do with the abuse literature Nina gave you?

Doug (sighs):
Oh, you know about that, do you?

Carol:
You left it with your last chart. I put it in your locker for you.
(Doug sighs and drops his head to stare at his hands)
Does this have anything to do with Tatiana?

Doug (looks up at her...insistingly):
No!

Carol (knows better):
It's OK to be afraid, Doug. I'm scared to death.

Doug (surprised):
You are? But, you seem so excited...

Carol (nods):
Well, yeah, I'm excited, but, I'm scared too. I mean, I don't know what kind of a mother I'll be. I don't know what it'll be like having a little girl around all the time. And being responsible for her ALL the time. Is that the kind of thing you're worried about, too?

Doug (lies...nods):
Yeah, pretty much...

Carol (frustrated):
Then, why didn't you TALK to me about it?

Doug (shrugs):
You just seemed so excited...I didn't want to ruin anything for you...

Carol:
Doug, you want Tatiana, don't you? I mean, if this adoption goes through, you're going to be happy about it, aren't you?

Doug (nods):
Yes! Absolutely!

Carol (continues her thought):
Because, if you're not, I want you to let me know now so I can stop this thing before it gets too far along...

Doug (shakes his head):
I wouldn't do that to you...not after everything you've already been through with this!

Carol (shakes her head and frowns at him):
You just don't get it, do you, Doug? This isn't just about me. I know you want it to be my project, and I appreciate you letting me keep it that way, but, the end result is going to effect both of us no matter what the outcome is.
(she reaches over and takes his good hand in hers)
I want Tatiana. I want her probably more than anything I've ever wanted in my life.
(pauses...looks him in the eye)
But, I don't want her more than you.
(Doug looks over at her quickly)
If Tatiana coming to live with us is going to jeopardize our relationship or our future together, then, it's not worth it.

Doug:
There's no reason you can't help both.
(sighs)
The problem isn't with Tatiana. It's with me. I got that literature from Nina because I wanted to see if I fit any of the patterns in the cycle.

Carol:
Do you?

Doug (shakes his head with a short smile):
No. Not really.

Carol:
Did Ray hit you a lot when you were a kid?
(Doug gives her a look)
I guess that's something we never really talked much about...your childhood...

Doug (scoffs):
That's because mostly all I want to do is forget about it.
(gives his classic 'huh' sigh)
No, Ray didn't hit me all that much. He smacked me around some when he was drunk or hung over, but, I learned how to just stay out of his way most of the time. He never took a ball bat and bashed my head in or anything, if that's what you're asking.

Carol:
He abandoned you. That's sometimes worse than beating. It's still a form of abuse.

Doug (sighs):
Well, you'll be glad to know that according to Nina's pamphlets, I don't fit into any of the structured groups.

Carol:
Well, did that make you feel better when you realized that?

Doug (nods):
Yes, it did. But, I guess I'm still just a little nervous about being a full time father. It'll be a lot different than when we have Scott on the weekends.

Carol (sighs):
I know. I think about that, too. I know we don't have any idea how long we'll actually get to have Tatiana. I guess no parent knows that not even with their own kids. I just know that we can give her a lot of things she wouldn't get a chance to have otherwise. Do you think we're ready to be parents?

Doug (chuckles):
Is any parent ready to be a parent? I think we'll do OK.

Carol:
So, if this adoption goes through, it's OK with you?

Doug (nods):
Absolutely.

Carol (cautiously):
You're sure?

Doug (looks into her eyes):
I'm sure.
(ducks his head slightly)
And I'm sorry I didn't come to you in the first place.

Carol (nods):
I'll accept that.

She and Doug slide off the table together and start for the door. Doug sighs as he opens the door for her.

Doug:
Do you suppose I'll ever get all this stuff I need to know about being married together?

Carol (chuckles):
I think you've got a long way to go!

Doug:
Like that poem by Robert Frost? Miles to go?

Carol (amazed):
Why, Doug, I had no idea you knew literature like that!

Doug (as they exit the room):
Oh, I think there's probably still lots of things about me you don't know yet!
(Carol gives him look)
I better go find Mark and get it over with. I'll see you later
(touches Tatiana's shoulder and smiles)
Both of you, OK?

Doug goes off down the hall while Carol an Tatiana watch him go.

Cut scene.

Open next scene as Doug finds Mark in another room. He holds up his hand to display his cast. Mark frowns at him.

Mark:
Broken, huh?

Doug:
In two places! I did a good job!

Mark (nods):
Does it hurt?

Doug:
Not as much as it did. I got a script for Percodan. I'm fine.

Mark:
Well, I'll leave working up to you. If you feel up to it and can, it's OK with me.

Doug (nods):
I'm fine.
(pauses shortly)
Carol and I had a long talk. I feel better about everything now.

Mark:
I'm glad to hear that. Really. I'm glad to see you working so hard at this with Carol.

Doug:
Turns out Carol is just as nervous about being a parent as I am.

Mark:
So, there, you see? It was OK for you to be nervous, Doug. You should be. Anybody would be. Being a parent is a big responsibility.

Doug:
I just hope I can be good at it, you know? I didn't have a very good teacher...I hope I don't turn out like him.

Mark (shakes his head):
You won't. I think you'll work twice as hard at it because you know what that was like for you. And if you ever need my help or advice, you let me know, OK?

Doug (grins):
How about a baby sitter?

Mark:
That too! Anytime!

Their conversation is interrupted by noise outside the door...more patients are coming in. Both rush into the hallway to be ready. Doug's attention is taken by a little boy sitting on a gurney crying. He is about three years old. Doug goes over to him and leans down to him gently.

Doug (calmly):
Hey, Buddy! Don't worry! We'll have you good as new in no time!

Doug picks the child up in his arms and carries to an exam room.

Fade Act Four To Black.

"ER"

"...And Miles To Go Before I Sleep..."

Closing Act

Scene opens at County ER with the staff gathered around the front desk. Doug is there, with Mark, and Nina, and Kerry, while Randi passes out mail.

Nina (quietly to Doug):
Doug, did you get the answers you needed from those pamphlets I gave you?

Doug (nods):
Yes, I did. Thanks.

Nina (eyes him carefully):
And everything's OK now?

Doug:
Everything's fine.

Mark:
What's the word on Tatiana?

Doug:
I don't know yet. Carol was going in for her last interview today. I guess we'll know soon enough.

Mark:
Well, they talked to me and I put in a good word for Carol. I hope everything turns out for her.

Randi (holds a letter out to Doug):
For you, Dr. Ross.

Doug takes the letter and looks it over. Kerry glances over to catch the return address.

Kerry:
Pediatric Journal?

Doug (confused):
What could they want now?
(opens letter and begins to skim in)

Kerry:
Do they want you to write another article?

Doug (surprised):
Yeah! They do! Listen, it says
(reads aloud)

..."never has one article generated such a response from our reading audience. We invite and encourage you to write for us again soon..."

Mark (teasing):
Must be that picture Carol sent with it.

Doug (scoffs):
That couldn't be it...
(staff snickers)
Could it?

Mark (changes subject):
How's your hand feeling?

Doug (waves his cast lightly):
It's fine. I'll never know it 100 years from now.

Mark (sarcastically):
I doubt that any of us will, Doug!

Conversation comes to a halt as Carol races in excitedly with Tatiana in tow. She rushes up to Doug before acknowledging anyone else.

Carol:
I got her!
(she picks Tatiana up in her arms)
She's mine! Can you believe it!
(hugs Doug excitedly...he hugs them both)
I owe it all to you, Doug! How can I ever thank you?

Doug (smiles):
By not hating me for it later when the times get harder.

Carol (shakes her head...wide smile):
Never happen!

Tatiana (very timidly to Doug):
Carol says you're gonna be my Papa.

Doug (takes her hand gently in his):
That's right. I am. Will that be OK with you?
(Tatiana smiles wide and nods her head quickly)

Carol:
We have to go shopping. I have a million things I need to buy...

Doug (nonchalantly):
Want my credit card?

Carol:
You're offering it?

Doug (nods):
Absolutely.
(reaches into his wallet and produces the card for her)
Knock yourself out.

Carol (snatches card):
I'll go easy, I promise! Thanks!

She gives him a quick kiss on the cheek and she and Tatiana exit quickly. The staff nods their congrats and thoughts and everybody goes back to work.

Cut scene.

Open last scene as Doug arrives home for the evening. Carol and Tatiana meet him just inside the door wearing matching mother/daughter dresses and their hair both sporting an identical ribbon. Doug smiles at the sight of them.

Doug:
I take it you had a good day shopping?

Carol:
It was great. We can't wait to show you everything.

Doug:
You both look very pretty.
(he gets down on Tatiana's level with her, eye to eye)
Tatchie, I want you to know I'm very happy you're going to live here with us. And I also want you to know that I don't know a lot about being a Daddy, so, you're going to have to be really patient with me, OK?
(Tatiana nods with a smile)
But, I do know a few things about little girls. And one is that they all need their own special friend...
(he reaches under his jacket and pulls out a Raggedy Ann doll. Tatiana's face lights up instantly when she sees it)
Will you be her friend?

Tatiana (grabs doll and cuddles it close):
Oh, yes! Thank you, Dr. Doug!

Doug (smiles):
You're very welcome.
(stands up and turns to Carol)

Carol (quietly):
Right now we're Carol and Dr. Doug...maybe later we'll get to be Mom and Dad.

Doug (nods):
I think we'll need to earn that.

Carol (looks down at Tatiana still cuddling her doll):
I think we're off to a good start.

Doug puts one arm around Carol and the other hand on Tatiana's back as he lets them lead him into the living room to show off all the things they bought on their outing.

Fade Into Closing Credits of the show.

July 31, 1997