Breaking Ground

Opening Act

Scene opens with Doug and Carol sitting in the jeep parked on a Chicago street, exterior, daytime. Doug looks into the rear view mirror and sees another car pull up and park behind them.

Doug (smiles):
There's Mark and Nina...

Before Doug can get out of his car, Mark gets out of his and walks up to the drivers side of Doug's car. Doug rolls down the window.

Mark:
The real estate agent should be here any minute.
(Motions to building they are parked in front of)
This is it. There's a parking lot in back...you can put a basketball hoop back there, too.

Doug:
Sounds like it passes my inspection.

Mark attention is diverted by another car pulling up across the street. A woman in a business suit carrying a briefcase watches for oncoming traffic and rushes across the street to where Mark is standing. The name on her tag is Dana Merritt.

Dana:
Oh, Dr. Greene! I'm so sorry I'm late!

Mark (smiles):
That's OK, Mrs. Merritt. We just got here.

Dana (fetches keys out of her purse):
Are we all here?

Mark:
Yes...you met Nina Pomerantz, already...this is Dr. and Mrs. Doug Ross.

Doug (nods):
Hello.

Dana (nods):
Nice to meet both of you.
(pause)
Well, let's go in, shall we?

Mark motions for Nina and she gets out of his car to join him on the sidewalk with Dana. Doug and Carol also get out of their car and join them. Dana opens the door to the building with her keys and all of them step into a very spacious reception area.

Dana:
This building was used for a day care center before. It was completely renovated just five years ago. It's really in great shape.

Mark:
Did you get the figures on the bills for me?

Dana:
Yes, I have a printout. I'll give you that before we leave.

Doug (stops by an elevator):
There's a second floor?

Dana:
Yes, that's where most of the office space is. It wasn't used when the day care center was in operation, but, it's in great shape.

Doug (punches button, light comes on):
This thing works?

Dana:
Everything works. All the utilities are turned on.

Mark (looks around):
This would serve for exactly what it is...a reception area. This area over here is a nice big waiting room. This is good.

Doug (inside the elevator car):
Going up?

Everyone gets into the elevator and ride up to the second floor. The doors open to nice carpeting and a hallway leading to various office spaces.

Dana:
There are actually about 8 offices up here. If you need them all, they are there. If you don't need them all, you can knock the walls down and made bigger rooms.

Mark:
8 rooms is great. Nina needs two...Doug and I both get an office...that leaves 4 exam rooms. That's great. Two for Pedes and two for me.

Doug:
Nice desk area here for another receptionist.

Carol:
What does the file room look like?

Dana:
Oh, there's a huge room down here at the end of the hall...
(Carol follows her)
It should serve your needs nicely.

Carol (walks in):
A walk in file room!? I'm in heaven!

Mark:
What about storage space? We'll need to store supplies...

Dana:
There's storage space under the building in the basement...and it's a dry basement...we'll go down there.

Doug (finds a stairway):
What's up here?

Dana:
That goes to the roof.

Doug (brightens):
Roof?
(he goes up the steps quickly and Mark follows him)
Mark! Look at this! Our conference room!

Mark (laughs):
Yeah, Doug, we'll put some lawn chairs up here!

Doug:
This is sensational. We could call for a chopper if we needed one! There's plenty of room up here!

Mark:
I picked a good one, huh?

Doug:
Yeah, you did!

Mark:
Of course you know, the building is just part of it. There's tons of other things we're going to have...equipment...copier...fax machine...phones...and people to work for us.

Doug:
Not going to be easy, is it?

Mark:
Well, I didn't go into this without thinking. The equipment we can get wholesale. I know a great place.

Doug:
What about people to work for us? That means we have to hire.

Mark:
Put Carol in charge of that. She's a better judge of character than I am. She'll do great. We'll only need a couple of receptionists...one for upstairs and one for downstairs...and probably a nurse. Carol's a PA. What else are we going to need to start with?

Doug:
So many things we have to do...work out hours...and all that stuff.

Mark:
We got plenty of time...first thing we do is sign the lease...then we can do everything else.
(Doug nods)
We're in agreement, then? This is the place?

Doug:
It gets my vote. Let's go see what the girls think...

Mark and Doug go back down the steps into the building where Nina and Carol are going through the office spaces.

Carol:
These rooms are HUGE, Mark!

Nina:
We can put everything in blocks...Doug has three rooms...you have three rooms, and there's two rooms at the end of this hallway that will be perfect for me.

Mark:
We're all in agreement then? This is what we want?

Nina:
I've looked all over town and not seen another building I thought would work...

Carol:
It's fine with me...got plenty of room...

Doug:
Gets my vote.

Mark:
OK, Dana...how long are we required to sign the lease for?

Dana:
You have to agree to stay here two years.

Mark (nods):
We can do that. Draw up the papers and we'll come in and sign. All of us are putting money into this, so, all of us will need to sign, right?

Dana:
Right.
(smiles)
OK, I'll have those ready for you by the end of the week.

Doug:
When can we start redecorating?

Dana:
As soon as the ink dries.

The crew is chattering excitedly in a circle with Dana answering questions for them as quickly as possible.

Pull back a long shot of the building exterior and fade Opening Act into Opening Credits of the Show.

Act One

Scene opens in an OB-GYN office. Carol is sitting in a chair in front of a desk, waiting. Cut to show Stephanie come into the room with a file. She goes over to she desk and sits down, making a couple of notes, then turning to Carol.

Stephanie (smiles):
So, how are you feeling?

Carol:
I'm great.

Stephanie:
And how is that little sweetheart of yours?

Carol (chuckles):
Growing like a weed. I think he's really enjoying Doug being home so much. But, I think the Grandmothers will be happy when he goes back to work.

Stephanie:
Yeah, I heard about his illness...how's he doing now?

Carol:
He's doing great. He's on home dialysis now, no problems, and he recently started a light exercise program. He got into the computer and did some research about exercise and blood pressure. I think he was taking the kids with him to buy a bicycle today. You'd never know anything was wrong with him.

Stephanie:
Well, that's great. I'm glad to hear he's adjusting so well.
(pause)
Well, you're in great shape. Everything checks out.

Carol:
OK...how soon can I have another baby?

Stephanie:
You want to have another child right away?

Carol (nods):
I do. I want to have several more. Do you think that will be a problem?

Stephanie:
No, I don't think so. Granted, you had some problems having Marc, but, that was a first pregnancy. We know what to watch for now, and we can start watching for it as soon as we know you're pregnant. I don't see any reason why you can't have more children, if that's what you and Doug want.

Carol:
Good. How soon? Stephanie:
Well, Marc is what? Three months old now? Almost four? I'd wait until he is at least six or nine months old before I started trying again if I were you. That will not only space your children out a little bit, but, it will also give you plenty of time. Are you and Doug having sex again yet?

Carol (laughs):
Oh yeah!

Stephanie (chuckles):
Yeah, I didn't figure Doug would wait two minutes past the required time...

Carol:
You're just about right...only it wasn't Doug...

Stephanie:
Well, you're in great shape. And I don't see anything to keep you from having more children...just give yourself time.

Carol (stands up to leave):
Great! Thanks, Steph! You made my day!

Stephanie (walks out with her):
I understand Doug is going into private practice with Mark Greene? Is that right?

Carol:
Wow, word must travel fast. Yeah. That's right. In fact we just looked at the building yesterday. It'll be Doug and Mark, and Nina Pomerantz is also going in on it. We're all real excited about it.

Stephanie:
We? You mean, you're leaving County work and going with him?

Carol:
Yeah. I like working with him. And I want to be where ever he is. With my PA degree now, I can really help them out, now.

Stephanie:
Well, I wish you well. I did that myself not too long ago. It's rough at first, but, it's very exciting. Good luck.

Carol:
Thanks, Steph. I'll call you when I need you.

Stephanie (from the doorway):
Six to nine months, OK?

Carol (nods):
I got it. OK. Thanks!

Carol goes on out, Stephanie shakes her head and closes the door.

Cut to a bicycle shop someplace across town. Show Tatiana and Scott looking excitedly over the bicycle items, horns, lights, reflectors, etc. Pan back to show Doug is looking at bikes on a rack and he has Marc in a chest pouch with him.

Sales Clerk:
May I help you, Sir?

Doug:
Yeah, I want to buy a bike...I'm just not sure which one is best for me.

Sales Clerk:
What kind of riding do you intend to do?

Doug:
Strictly leisure...this is just for exercise.

Sales Clerk:
Do you want a speeded bike?

Doug:
Well, I didn't think so, but, my kids say yes. These Mountain Bikes are nice. My son lives on his. I don't want anything fancy...but I might need the help of a few gears.

Sales Clerk:
OK...a nice 12 speed would probably suit your needs. Let me show you a couple...

Doug follows the sales clerk, looking quickly over his should to see what Tatiana and Scott are doing. They are not causing a ruckus, so, he turns his attention back to bikes. The Sales Clerk brings out a very nice Metallic Blue Mountain Bike with a sport bottle and rack and shows it to Doug.

Sales Clerk:
I personally have one of these and ride it on weekends with my girl friend. It's a real nice bike...easy to ride...and not a lot of hassle with gears. The best thing about it is the tires are nice shock absorbers.

Doug (looks over the bike and climbs onto it to test it for height):
Seems like a nice bike...is it ready to ride?

Sales Clerk:
Yes, Sir.

Doug (nods):
OK...I'll take it. And I need a child seat for the back of it...
(pats Marc on his chest)
...I'll be hauling cargo.

Sales Clerk:
OK...come on up to the counter and I'll write you up.

Doug (turns to the children):
You two getting anything? If you are, bring it and come on...you can each have ONE thing.

Tatiana brings a set of purple streamers for the handlebars and Scott brings a horn and they lay them on the counter. Doug directs the Sales Clerk to ring them up, too and puts them in the child seat. He pays for everything and they wheel the bike out and Doug puts it in the back of the jeep. Once all the kids are in place, he pulls the jeep out into traffic and disappears.

Cut to show time lapse. Scene is at the Ross home, in the bedroom. Doug is sitting on the edge of the bed and Marc is playing happily on the bed close by him. Doug is injecting a needle into his thigh and is just taking it out when there is a knock at the door.

Doug:
Come in!

The door opens and Scott is in the doorway. He stops short when he sees Doug with the needle.

Doug (motions him in):

It's OK, Scott. Come on in.

Scott:

What are you doing?

Doug (matter of factly):

Giving myself an Epogen injection.

Scott (goes over to the bed and sits with Doug):

What's that?

Doug:
Well, where my kidneys aren't working properly, the bone marrow doesn't know to produce red blood cells. And I have to have those, so, the Epogen tricks the bone marrow into working.

Scott:
Does it hurt?

Doug:
No. The needle is very fine. I don't even feel it. Besides, needles don't bother me much.

Scott:
They do me.

Doug (smiles):
Well, they probably did me too when I was your age.
(pause)
Did you need something?

Scott:
We just never got a chance a talk and there's just some things I wanted to know about.

Doug (nods):
OK...we've got time now...ask me anything.

Scott:
Well, my most important questions is are you gonna die?

Doug (smiles wide):
No! I am not in any danger of dying anytime soon.

Scott:
But, your kidneys don't work...don't you have to have them?

Doug (nods):
Yes, and that's what the dialysis machine is for. It does the job my kidneys are laying down on. That takes care of all the problems.

Scott:
How long can a person live on dialysis?

Doug:
Well, I've known people who have been on it for 20 years or more. As long as it takes.

Scott:
I heard Mom say something about a transplant...are they gonna get you one?

Doug:
Well, I'll be put on a list. And it's a long list. So, we'll just have to see what happens.

Scott:
Well, since we're related, couldn't I give you one of mine?

Doug (puts his arm around Scott):
That's a very unselfish thing to say, Buddy. And I appreciate that. But, even if you were a match, you have to be 18 to be a donor.

Scott (disappointed):
Oh.
(thinks a minute)
Well, can we talk about it again when I'm 18?

Doug (squeezes his shoulder):
Sure, Buddy! When you're 18, if I haven't had a transplant by then, we can talk about it again. But, I'll tell you right now, I don't know if I could take one of yours or not. It's a "dad" thing.

Scott:
So, can you still play ball with me and stuff?

Doug:
I can do anything I did before, I just have to do it in moderation. I need a little more rest than I used to need. That's all.

Scott (happy grin):
So, you wanna go shoot some hoops?

Doug (smiles):
Feel like getting beat, huh? Sure! OK! Let's go!

Doug carries Marc with him downstairs and gets his carrier on the way out the back door. Tatiana is playing with her dolls out on the back steps when he and Scott start for the basketball hoop.

Doug (sets the baby down near where Tatiana is playing):
Hey, Tatchie, can I get you to do me a favor?

Tatiana (looks up at him):
What, Papa?

Doug:
Will you watch Marc for me while I whip your brother at basketball?

Tatiana:
Watch him why? What's he gonna do? Doug:
Well, he's probably gonna lay there and play with his rattle toy on the front of the carrier. I just want you to keep an eye on him and if he cries, I'll come and get him, OK?

Tatiana:
OK, Papa.

Scott (as they get to the hoop):
Trying to make her feel like a big shot?

Doug (nods):
She's old enough for a little responsibility. She can keep an eye on him for a little while.

Doug smiles to see Tatiana playing patty cake with Marc and starts going one on one with Scott. They are still driving against each other with Mark comes around the side of the house.

Mark:
I rang the bell...nobody answered.

Doug (stops action):
Sorry, Mark...I didn't hear you.
(makes a time out sign to Scott)
Time out, Bud.
(turns to Mark)
What's up?

Mark (grins):
Who's winning?

Doug (panting slightly, taps his chest):
The old man still has it.

Mark:
I came by the give you and Carol both a key...
(holds up two keys on keychains)
And we can start cleaning up and whatever else we want to do.

Doug:
But, we haven't signed the lease yet.

Mark:
No, but we have a verbal agreement. Dana trusts us. I thought we could go together and pick out which rooms we want?

Doug (nods):
Yeah, works for me. Carol's not home, though, we'll have to take the kids.

Mark (shrugs):
OK with me.

Doug:
OK, I'll get everybody together and I'll meet you there? About an half hour or so? I'll bring pizza or something?

Mark:
That's great! I'll see you later, then!

Mark goes on back around the house and disappears.

Doug:
OK, kids! We're gonna go see Dad's new office!

Scott:
Can we help with the decorating?

Doug:
We'll see...maybe you guys can pick out the wallpaper!

Tatiana:
Get some with little people on it like Dr. Jargen has!

Doug;
We'll work on it, OK?

Scott:
Will we get to paint or anything?

Doug (picks up Marc and they all go into the house):
We might...

Scott:
Can Veronica help?

Doug:
If Veronica wants to help and her parents say it's OK, it's OK with me.

Scott (brightly):
Great! Thanks, Dad!

Tatiana (quietly to Doug):
He's got it bad for Veronica.

Doug (nods):
I think you're right...

Show Doug loading the kids and the baby into the car and disappearing into traffic.

Fade Act One to Black.

Act Two

Scene opens in the Ross home, interior, early morning. Carol is standing in front of a full length mirror, looking at herself, when Doug comes into the from his shower. He has on his jeans, no shirt, and a towel around his neck, drying his hair vigorously as he walks.

Carol (softly):
Doug?

Doug (from under his towel):
Yes, love?

Carol:
Do you think I'm still as desirable as I was before Marc was born?

Doug (takes the towel off his head and smiles over at her):
No.

Carol (almost hurt expression):
No?

Doug (goes over to her and wraps his arms around her waist, pulling her close to him):
You are 100 times more desirable than you were before.

Carol (grins, embarrassed):
What a sweet thing to say. But, it's not true. I've got a spare tire around my middle now and none of my clothes fit...

Doug:
And we have a beautiful son who is one of the lights of my life.

Carol (smiles, looking in mirror back at Doug):
He is something, isn't he?

Doug (cuddles his head on her shoulder):
He's just like his Mom...

Carol:
With the temperament of his father!
(Doug chuckles)
Are you meeting with Mark today?

Doug (goes back across the room to get his shirt):
Yeah...we're gonna work on schedules...what day do you want off?

Carol:
How are you guys setting it up?

Doug:
Hours are 9-6...we'll take an hour for lunch...Mark and I are taking every Thursday off because that's the best day on the golf course...you get a day off too because there will be that one day you'll be the only one there.

Carol:
How about Wednesday? That's the middle of the week. We're working Saturdays, right?

Doug:
Half day...9-Noon.

Carol:
Wednesday, then. That's a good day.

Doug (picks up his keys):
OK...I'm gonna go meet Mark...wish us luck.

Carol (rolls her eyes):
You two working out a schedule...oh brother!

Doug:
If you go to the store today, get some cereal for Mark. I want to start him on it. He's been having so much trouble with formula, I want us to try him on Follow-Up or something. He's almost four months old so we can get a little bolder.

Carol (nods, brushing her hair):
You're the child expert...

Doug (kisses her cheek as he starts for the door):
I'll see you later...

Carol:
Try to cooperate with Mark, OK?

Doug (from the doorway):
Always!

Doug disappears on out the door. Carol just laughs as he goes and shakes her head.

Cut to the office, interior. Mark and Doug are sitting at a make-shift table, both with pencils and paper.

Mark:
Did we vote on the name?

Doug:
I thought we all agreed on Family Center?

Mark:
Did we agree? I know that was the name that kept coming up...

Doug (nods):
Yeah, I'm pretty sure we agreed. I think Carol already ordered the signs...

Mark (taps pencil against his cheek):
OK...we've got hours worked out...and we decided on Thursdays off for us...Carol has one day alone...what about us?

Doug (shrugs):
Two days off a week? I can live with that...

Mark:
Not every week...I was thinking every other week one of us would be on duty...

Doug:
Well, it has to be Wednesday. That's the day Carol wants off.

Mark (nods):
Great. We'll just alternate Wednesdays. Then, we'll be ready for that day off on Thursday.

Doug:
So, every other week, we get two days in a row off? Sounds good to me.

Mark (leans back, smiles):
Ah, the joys of being your own boss!
(both chuckle)
OK...we got schedules worked out...what else do we need to think about?

Doug:
What about security? Shouldn't we have someone keeping a eye on this place when we're not around?

Mark (nods):
Yeah, I think that's a good idea. I'll call a couple of the security services and see how soon we can get on their list. What else?

Doug:
Well, we need supplies. I'll call a few places, but, Carol is going to handle that kind of stuff.

Mark:
OK...what else?

Doug:
We need to hire a few people. We need at least one nurse, possibly two. And we need two receptionists...one for each floor.

Mark:
What about secretaries?

Doug (shrugs):
Well, we probably could use one, at least. There's just the two of us. I don't know what Nina has in mind...

Mark:
If Nina needs extra help she said she'd hire them herself. She likes to take psych students from the University if she can get them.

Doug:
That's fine. I'd say one secretary between the two of us would probably work well until we got good and started. Then, we might both have to have one.

Mark:
OK...we need to place some want ads!

Doug:
I can handle that.

Mark:
OK...I'll let you do it. So, what would you say is our projected Grand Opening date?

Doug:
At least a month? Think we can be ready by then?

Mark:
With a lot of hard work...I think we might swing it!

Doug:
Not if we don't get to work! I'll get someone from the phone company here to get some phones in so we can work from here...

Mark (nods):
Good deal...I'll get in touch with all the utility companies and get the accounts set up.
(He and Doug get up from the table to start out)
Don't forget, we all meet at the Realtors office tomorrow to sign the lease!

Doug (nods):
I won't forget!
(pause)

Doug (continued):
Oh! And something I wanted to ask you about...when we get stocked up, can you give Marc his boosters? I can't give them to him and we really haven't picked a Pediatrician. I don't know as we really need one with you around...will you do it?

Mark:
Sure, you just give me his booster card and I'll take care of it...on one condition.

Doug:
Which is?

Mark:
That YOU stand out in the hall while I'm doing it.

Doug (laughs):
Excuse me?

Mark:
I've seen what it does to you to hurt a child that doesn't belong to you. I'm not about to watch you be reduced to mush when I stick a sharp metal needle into the tender skin of your baby. I've been there, Pal. I know what that feels like. I never could take Rachel in...Jen always had to do it.

Doug (sarcastic grin):
I think I can handle it, Mark.

Mark (shrugs):
OK...have it your way...but don't say I didn't warn you.

Doug just chuckles as he and Mark leave the center together.

Cut to show time lapse. Doug is working at a computer in the Ross home when Tatiana comes into the room. She goes over to where Doug is working and stands staring at him until he stops working and gives her his attention.

Doug (grins at her):
What?

Tatiana:
Can I ask you a question?

Doug (nods):
Always.

Tatiana:
Well, my friend, Amber, says you and Mama aren't married. But, you are, aren't you?

Doug (taken aback):
Of course your Mama and I are married

Tatiana:
Then, where's the picture?

Doug:
What picture?

Tatiana:
Amber's Mama has a picture in their house of her in a white dress and him in a nice suit.

Doug (smiles):
A tuxedo. Yes. That would be a wedding a picture...

Tatiana:
What's a wedding picture?

Doug:
That's the picture they take of you the day you get married.

Tatiana:
Then why don't you and Mama have one?

Doug:
Well, because your Mama and I didn't get married like that.

Tatiana:
Like what?

Doug:
Well, Amber's parents got married in a church with lots of people around...they had what's called a wedding. It's a ceremony like the one you had last spring when you took your first communion...you remember? We all went to church and everything?
(Tatiana nods)
Well, that's how most people get married. But, your Mama and me, we didn't do it that way. We just went off together and let a man of authority marry us. So, we don't have a wedding picture.

Tatiana:
Then how do people know you're married?

Doug (holds up his hand):
Because we both wear a wedding ring.

Tatiana:
But, don't you want a picture of it? Nana Helen says a girls' wedding day is one of the most important days in her life!

Focus on Doug, thinking, with a frown on his face.

Tatiana:
Is that right?

Doug (nods slowly):
Yeah...yeah, Punkin, that's right.
(pause)
Is your Mama home?

Tatiana (nods):
Yeah, she's in the kitchen...why?

Doug jumps up from the computer and starts through the house. Tatiana follows him close behind and curiously, He stops in the hallway and picks up a rose from a vase on a table and goes into the kitchen where Carol is cooking dinner. He goes over to her and takes her by the shoulders, spinning her around.

Carol (confused):
Doug! What are you doing? I'm fixing dinner...

Doug doesn't pay any attention to her. He pulls up a chair quickly and sits her down in it, getting down in front of her on one knee with the rose in his hand.

Doug (smiles at her):
Will you marry me, Mrs. Ross?

Carol (laughing):
Have you taken leave of your senses? We're already married.

Doug:
Yes, I know...two years this Saturday...and you know what we never had?
(Carol gives him a blank look)
We never had a wedding. We always planned it, but, we never had it. So, will you marry me? Again? In a church with witnesses in front of God and everybody?

Carol:
If we couldn't plan a wedding in two years what makes you think we can put one together by Saturday?

Doug:
Because it's our anniversary...and we'll find a way!

Carol (laughs):
You're serious!

Doug (smiles):
Absolutely!

Carol (puts her arms around his neck):
Yes, Dr. Ross...I will marry you again.

Doug leans in and kisses her sweetly. She kisses him back, making happy noises with her throat, but they both stop short at the realization that Tatiana is standing in the doorway watching them.

Doug (sarcastically to Tatiana):
It's OK...we're married.

Tatiana (shakes her head):
Not until the wedding you aren't!

Carol (rolls her eyes):
I swear she gets more like my mother every day...
(Doug chuckles)
I guess we have a lot of plans to make between now and Saturday?

Doug (gets off his knee):
The wedding is just for friends and family. You make a list and I'll call everybody. I'll go talk to Father Aaron this afternoon...

Carol (going back to her cooking):
Tatchie can be the flower girl...Scott can be your junior best man...Mark will stand up with you?

Doug:
I hope so...

Carol:
We won't have a ring bearer...

Doug:
Sure we will...we have a son under ten years old...

Carol:
Well, yes, but he can't walk down the aisle!

Doug (grins):
Leave that to me.

Carol (gives him a strange look):
OK, now how will I get matching dresses for Tatchie and me?

Tatiana (excitedly from the doorway):
Is this like dress up?

Carol (nods, smiles):
Sort of...

Tatiana:
Oh, Goody! This is gonna be fun!

Carol (rolls her eyes):
This is gonna be a nightmare! Which is why we never did it before now...

Doug (grins, kisses her neck):
Now, Carol...according to your daughter, we're not really married without a wedding picture...and I think it's high time we got one. We'll work everything out!

Carol (chuckles):
I can see it now...a wedding picture with three kids in it...

Doug (pats her belly):
Darn...I was hoping it might be four.

Carol laughs and pushes him away. He takes Tatiana and starts out of the room. Once he's gone, Carol puts her own hand on her stomach and holds it there a minute. Then, she shakes her head and goes back to her cooking.

Fade Act Two to Black.

Act Three

Scene opens at the Ross home, early morning, interior. Carol is having breakfast alone at the kitchen counter, reading over the newspaper. Focus on what she is reading...the Classified Ads...HELP WANTED and follow the words...

WANTED:
Receptionist (2) for three doctor office.
Must be switchboard oriented and type 45 WPM.
M-SA hours
Apply with resume to 7624 Ralston Road

WANTED:
Registered Nurse for two doctor office.
Must be State certified and able to handle
Emergency cases. Apply with resume to
7624 Ralston Road

WANTED:
Secretary for two doctor office. Must be
computer oriented, experienced in Word Perfect
6.1 and able to juggle workloads. Apply with
resume to 7624 Ralston Road.

Doug (comes into the room suddenly):
Hey! How's it going? Are the kids ready?

Carol:
Yeah, they went to get their books. Your ads are in the paper.

Doug (looks over her shoulder):
They sound OK?

Carol:
You did great. I hope we get some good applicants.

Doug:
And you can handle the interviews, right?

Carol (nods):
Sure, no problem. I know what you guys need. I'll take care of it.

Doug (kisses her with a sarcastic grin):
And don't hire some hunky male nurse, either.

Carol (nods...smiles):
Uh huh...and the same would go for hiring a sexy secretary?

Doug (grins):
Oh, no...Mark and I get final say on that one!

Carol (chuckles):
I should have known.

Doug:
I'm going to take the kids to school and I'll stop by the church and talk to Father Aaron before I come home. Are you sure you want to do this?

Carol (nods):
Yes! I have it figured Tatchie can wear her Communion dress...it'll be white like my gown. I'll call Mama today and see if we can get a dress together fast.

Doug (confused):
I thought you had one.

Carol:
You don't expect me to marry you in a dress I bought to marry John Taglieri, do you?

Doug (shrugs):
Wouldn't bother me any. You didn't marry him...
(kisses her sweetly)
...you married me.

Scott (from the doorway):
Are you guys gonna do this all morning? We have to get to school!

Doug (laughs):
I'm coming, already!
(starts for the door)

Carol (as he gets to the front door with the kids):
Don't forget...we meet Mark and Nina to sign the lease this afternoon!

Doug (on his way out the door):
I won't forget...I'll be there.

Carol (thinking...quickly bolts from the chair and runs to the door):
Will you be at the office today? The phone company is supposed to come?

Doug (from the jeep):
Right after I leave Father Aaron...I got it covered.

He waves to her from the curb and gets into the car. She waves back to him and the children and watches until the jeep pulls away and disappears down the street.

Cut to show time lapse. Doug is at the center, working alone upstairs in the office he has picked for his. He is measuring the walls and the floor, making notes as he does.

Cut to the street. Show a woman getting out of a sports car at the curb in front of the office building. She looks at the address on the building and compares it to the notes she is carrying. She looks around for a bell to ring but doesn't see one. She tries the door and it is unlocked so she walks into the reception area downstairs. She is dressed smart and carrying a briefcase with her. The name tag on her jacket reads LINDA FARRELL, PHARMASEUTICAL.

Linda (looks slowly around the empty room):
Hello?
(no response so she walks a little further into the room)
Is anyone here?

Doug Voice (over intercom that we do not see yet):
Can I help you?

Linda hears the voice and turns in its direction. She sees the intercom on the wall and the red light glowing so she goes over to it and punches a button.

Linda:
I need to see someone in charge, please?

Doug:
Sure, come on up. Elevator's on your left.

Linda:
Thank you.

Linda looks and sees the elevator, gets into it and goes up to the second floor. When the door opens there, she steps out, looking around, but still doesn't see anyone.

Linda (calls out):
Hello?

Doug's voice (from his office):
Back here!

Linda follows the voice down the hall and stops in the doorway of Doug's office. He is measuring a window and has his back to her. She smiles when she sees him and folds her arms across her chest.

Linda (coyly):
Well, what do you know? It IS the same Doug Ross...

Doug (laughing, starts turning around):
Well, let's hope there's not more than one...

He turns completely around and comes face to face with Linda. His expression registers shock and surprise.

Linda (smiles, starts into the office):
Oh, there couldn't be more than one.

Doug:
What are you doing here?

Linda:
I'm a salesperson, remember? I got word that a new doctor's office was opening and I wanted to be first in line so I could get the sale.
(walks closer to him)
Of course, I might have had a personal interest involved as well...

Doug (nervously):
Listen, Linda, a lot of things have changed since we were together last.

Linda (smiles, takes hold of his hand):
Oh, you mean like this little band of gold on your wedding finger?

Doug (nods):
That would be one thing, yes.

Linda (delighted):
So, you and Carol finally got married! I think that's great!

Doug:
What makes you think it's Carol?

Linda (scoffs):
Oh, come ON, Doug! You wouldn't have married anybody else!
(Doug chuckles and shrugs)
And now you're going into private practice...

Doug (cuts in quickly):
Partners with Mark Greene...

Linda:
And you're going to need a Pharmo supplier...do I get the nod?

Doug:
Actually, you'll have to take that up with Carol. She'll be handling all that stuff.

Linda (nods):
Great! I'll be happy to! How soon can I talk to her?

Doug (grins):
I'll tell her you were here and that you'll be calling on her again after the office gets open. Good enough?

Linda:
So, how are you planning on stocking sample medicine before you open?

Doug (thinking):
Ummm...guess I didn't think about that. OK. Leave me your business card and I'll have Carol call you. How's that?

Linda (smiles):
You know, you just might make a business man yet.
(reaches into her purse and hands him a card)
I'll hope I'll hear from her soon.

Doug (nods):
As soon as she can fit you in. She has lots of things to take care of so we can open in a month.

Linda (smiles):
I appreciate the vote of confidence.

Cut to show time lapse. Doug is leaving the office building and Linda is with him. They are laughing and talking between themselves and he has his hand on her shoulder as they stand in front of the building by her car together. Pull back to show Carol pulling up in the jeep and sees them together. She sits where she can see them for a minute, but, does not go to the office building. Instead, she makes a U-Turn in the street and goes the other way.

Cut to show Doug coming in the front door of the Ross home. Two steps into the door, he is met by Tatiana.

Tatiana (tauntingly):
You're in trouble, Papa!

Doug (grins at her):
Why? What did I do?

Tatiana:
I don't know...but Mama is really mad at you!

She scampers off and Doug goes through the house carefully, looking for Carol as he goes. He finds her curled up on the sofa reading a medical book.

Doug (carefully from the doorway):
Hey.

Carol (looks up at him):
Hey, yourself.

Doug:
Tatchie says I'm in some kind of trouble?

Carol (shakes her head):
No, not that I know of.

Doug (goes into the room):
Uh oh...I know that tone...I AM in some kind of trouble! What did I do now?

Carol (puts her book down):
Why don't you tell me?

Doug (sits in the chair close to her):
Because I don't know?

Carol (shrugs):
Well, then, you think about it, and when you know what you did, you can tell me.

Doug (runs his hand through his hair and sighs):
Don't do this to me, OK? I can't think of anything I did today that you would be angry at me for. I took the kids to school. I stopped by the Church and Father Aaron says he will be happy to accommodate us Saturday and the Church is free. I went into the office and got my space ready for the interior decorator to come on Monday. And I came home.

Carol (shortly):
Think about it, Doug.

Doug sits thinking and pondering but can't come up with anything. Discouraged, he puts his hand into his pocket and comes up with Linda's Business card and a light goes off in his head.

Doug (brightly):
Linda! That's what you're upset about! Did you know Linda was into the office today?

Carol:
Do you know that the office isn't even open yet? What was she doing there?

Doug:
She was trying to get a jump start on the competition. She's always been like that. That's why she's a good salesman! All she wanted was to get us on her list for supplies. She left her card...
(hands the card to Carol)
...and I told her I'd have you call her...that you handled all that stuff now.

Carol:
Did you also bother to tell her you were married now?

Doug (nods):
Yes, I did. I told her that first. She's looking forward to talking with you. It's a business situation, Carol, nothing else.

Carol:
Well, you can't blame me for feeling a little jealous. You and Linda were very close.

Doug (kisses her forehead):
The fact that you get jealous is a compliment. But you have nothing to worry about. Surely you know that much by now.

Carol:
Even if I do know it, I can't help but feel pangs when I see you with another woman. It brings back bad memories.

Doug (nods sadly):
I know it does. I know there's nothing I can ever do to take away the hurt I caused you back then. And in a lot of ways, I'll never forgive myself for that. But, Carol, that's in my past now. I'd really appreciate it if you would judge me by my present and not my past.

Carol (smiles, nods):
I think that's probably a fair request.
(she reaches over and pulls him into her arms)
I'm sorry I got jealous. Forgive me?

Doug (cuddles on her shoulder):
Always. And who knows? If John Taglieri came back, I might get a little jealous too.

They both just laugh and stay cuddled together on the sofa.

Cut to show Mark, Nina, Doug, and Carol in a Realtors offices and focus on Carol signing a dotted line on a paper in front of her on the desk.

Dana:
That's the last one...
(shakes hands with each one)
..Congratulations! You have yourselves an office building!

The four of them high five each other with wide smiles.

Fade Act Three to Black.

Act Four

Scene opens at the Ross home, early morning, interior. Show Carol waking up in her bed and reaching over for Doug, who is not beside her. She sits up just about the time her mother, Helen, comes bursting through the door.

Helen:
For heaven's sake, Carol! Get out of that bed! We've got a million things to do.
(she stops short at Carol giving her a confused look)
Did you forget that you're getting married today?

Carol:
Where's Doug?

Helen:
He and the boys spent the night with Mark Greene, remember? The Groom can't see the Bride before the wedding?

Carol (rolls her eyes):
Mama, that's ridiculous! Doug and I have been married for two years!

Helen (sits on the edge of the bed with her):
Yes, but, you never had a wedding and both of you agreed to do this up right. I picked up your dress...do you want to see it?
(Carol nods enthusiastically)
Then, come on! Get up! We need to get started!

Carol (grabs Helen's hand quickly):
Mama, can we talk a minute?

Helen (turns back to her with a smile):
Of course, Dear...

Carol:
I know how you always felt about Doug. And I know how you felt about him way back in the beginning. But, has your opinion of him changed since you've gotten to know him?

Helen (smiles, pats her hand):
My opinion of Doug was based only on what I had to judge him by. And when you told me he had changed, I didn't think I could believe it. But, I have seen that he is truly a changed man. He's a wonderful father and he seems to be a good husband. He seems to put you and the children first in his life and I can't find fault with a man who thinks like that. I'm very happy to have him as a son-in-law.

Carol (smiles):
When I noticed changes in Doug, I couldn't believe it myself. He told me he was 'reformed' but I didn't think a leopard could change his spots that easily. I almost didn't give him a chance. I wonder now what my life would be like if I hadn't.

Helen (smiles):
Lonely. You two are so good for each other.

Carol:
I really want this wedding. I know the first one was legal and everything, but, I really want this one. I want everyone to know I'm married to him.

Helen:
Then, you better be getting started!

Carol smiles and throws the covers off her.

Cut to show Doug sleeping on Mark's couch. He has the covers thrown off him and one foot dangling off the edge. Show Mark come in and tap him awake.

Mark (taps Doug on the shoulder):
Doug? Hey? Doug? Wake up, Buddy.

Doug (sleepily opens his eyes to peer up at Mark):
What time is it?

Mark:
Past time for you to wake up. We got lots to do.

Doug:
Did you get the tuxedos?

Mark:
Yep! All 4 for them! And I have the rings so don't worry.
(Doug looks quickly at his hand to see his ring is gone)
You'll get it back this evening! Don't worry! Let's move it! Come on!
(pulls him to his feet and pushes him towards the bathroom)
A nice shower and you'll feel MUCH better...
(Doug groans)

Cut back to the Ross home. Carol and Tatiana are having breakfast together at the table with Helen.

Carol:
I feel weird without my wedding ring. I'd just been able to put it back on after Marc was born.

Helen:
Swelling?

Carol:
The worst.

Helen:
Well, you'll get your ring back this evening.
(Carol nods)
Are you having a reception?

Carol (nods):
Yes, we're having it at the office! There's plenty of room in the lobby and we want to show it off to everybody, too. Doug was having a catering service take care of everything.
(Turns to Tatiana)
Tatchie, honey, go on upstairs and get your dress. I'll be along in a bit to do your hair, OK?

Tatiana (nods):
Yes, Mama!
(leaves the table quickly)

Helen:
What about a honeymoon?

Carol (laughs):
With three kids you think we could take a honeymoon? This is a renewal of vows and a wedding for a family and friends, Mama, not a first time event.

Helen (shrugs):
Just a thought.

Carol (sighs):
It's a nice thought. We didn't have time for a honeymoon the first time, either. At least Doug got us a hotel room and a bottle of champagne so we could at least feel like we celebrated. We don't have time for a honeymoon now, either. We have so much to do to get the office ready to open...

Helen:
Do you think this private practice thing is a good idea?

Carol:
Oh, absolutely. It's something Doug has been thinking about for a long time. I guess it just took an illness to push him over the edge. I think this will be the best thing that ever happened to him...and Mark. I think they're going to flourish in this new environment.

Helen:
What about you?

Carol (shrugs):
What about me?

Helen:
Are you happy with this decision?

Carol (grins):
If I wasn't, I wouldn't be doing it. I love working along side Doug. It just really gives me a sense of security.

Helen:
And you can keep an eye on him that way, too.

Carol (laughs):
Yeah, that too!
(pause)
I want to have another baby, Mama. What do you think about that?

Helen:
I think you better have as many children as you want to have before much longer. You're already 34 years old. You were old to be having a first baby in Marc. I think you better not waste too much time.

Carol:
That's what I want, too. I want to have our children close together. But, I want another one right away.

Helen (sips her coffee...smiles):
Takes nine months, Dear...from the point of conception!

Carol (nods):
So, this time next year, expect another baptism!

Tatiana (calling from upstairs):
MAMA! I need you to come fix my hair, Please!

Carol:
On my way, Sweetie!
(Reaches over and kisses Helen on the cheek)
Thanks for being here with me today, Mama. I really appreciate it.

Cut to show Mark helping Doug with his bow tie. He is dressed in his tuxedo but can't get the tie done. Mark is also dressed in a tux.

Mark (working with the tie):
There! That should do it.

Doug:
My fingers don't want to work.

Mark:
You're just nervous.

Doug:
Why? Why am I nervous? We've been married for two years already...

Mark:
Because you're going to stand up in front of God and everybody and do this.

Doug (softly):
I have a surprise for her after...if you'll help me out.

Mark:
As my wedding gift to you, you just name it and you got it.

Doug:
I'm going to take Carol away for the weekend. I've got airline tickets and reservations at the Poconos. Will you keep the kids? Stay at our house and take care of them for us?

Mark:
Poconos, huh? That'll be a nice getaway for you.

Doug (shrugs):
It's just for the weekend. We've got interviews to conduct next week. But, I thought it could just be the two of us. We don't get that much anymore.

Mark (smiles):
And on your wedding day, you deserve it. Absolutely. I'll take care of the kids for you.

Doug (claps his shoulder):
Thanks, Mark. I knew I could count on you.

Cut to show time lapse. Everyone is starting to assemble now at the Church. Show guests arriving...mostly people from the ER...Kerry Weaver, Anna Del Amico, John Carter, etc. Show Tatiana looking out from behind a door with wide eyes at everything she sees.

Tatiana (turns around to Carol):
Mama, everybody looks so pretty!

Carol (gazing down at her daughter):
Not as pretty as you, Princess. You look like a dream.

Tatiana and Carol both have on white dresses. Their hair is fixed the identical same way and Tatiana has a arrangement of flowers in hers.

Tatiana:
Is Papa gonna look pretty, too?

Carol (laughs):
He'll be wearing a tuxedo...and he'll be so handsome in it you won't even know him!

Tatiana:
Mama, is my Papa a fox?

Carol:
A fox?! Where in the world did you hear an expression like that?

Tatiana:
That's what Veronica calls Scotty!

Carol:
Yes, Baby...your Papa is DEFINITELY a fox!

Cut back to the other side of the church to where Mark is waiting with Doug and Scott. Doug is pacing and looking out the door from time to time.

Mark:
Will you STOP it? You're making ME nervous!

Doug:
I can't help it...

Mark:
Helen has Marc and she will set him up for his big entrance.

Doug:
Do you think that's corny?

Mark:
I think it's adorable. And I commend you for even thinking of it.

Doug:
Tatchie thought of it.
(he goes over and pins a carnation on Scott's lapel and straightens his tie)
How you doing, Sport?

Scott:
I'm fine...how are YOU doing?

Doug (nods):
I'm gonna make it.

Father Aaron (appears in the doorway):
We're ready, Dr. Ross.

Doug (heads for the door):
Finally!

Mark rolls his eyes and follows Doug out with Scott right beside him. The three of them stand together at the alter and wait. The first one down the aisle is Chuney, in a nice white dress, serving as the only bridesmaid. Then, Tatiana starts down the aisle with her flower basket, but, she is pushing Marc in a stroller with her. He is wearing a baby tuxedo and the rings are on a pillow in the stroller with him. Tatiana goes slowly, pushing the stroller, and dropping flower petals until she is beside Chuney. She looks over at Doug and smiles. Doug winks at her. A organist plays the Wedding March and all eyes fix to Carol at the top of the aisle. Her uncle is giving her away and they come down the aisle slowly. As they come, Doug cannot take his eyes off her. Once at the end of the aisle, she smiles wide as she joins him at his side.

The ceremony is typical and Catholic. The normal wedding vows are exchanged. But, before the rings are given, Father Aaron takes a small turn.

Father Aaron:
Today is the Second Anniversary for Dr. and Mrs. Ross. They are being united today in a renewal of the vows they took on this same day, two years ago. So, today, they have some things they want to add to the their traditional vows. Dr. Ross? Would you like to go first?

Doug (turns to Carol with her wedding band in his hand):
Carol, I've never been much for words. But, I want you to know that every day of these past two years have been the best times of my life. And I know it's all because I spent it with you. So, I give you this ring again with my promise that I will love you for the rest of my life.
(he places the ring back on her finger and smiles at her)

Carol (smiles at Doug, her eyes misting with tears):
Doug, I don't have enough words to tell you what you mean to me. Over these past two years, you've been my friend, my lover, and my supporter. No matter what happened, you managed to handle it and find a way to help me handle it. I give you this ring with my promise of trust and understanding for all the days left to come.
(she places the ring on his finger carefully) Father Aaron (smiles at both of them):
Ladies and Gentlemen, May I present to you, again, Dr. and Mrs. Douglas Ross. (congregation applauds as Doug and Carol turn to face them)
And you may kiss the Bride again, Dr. Ross.

Doug (lifts Carol's veil and smiles at her):
Even better than before, I promise.

The kiss Doug engaged with her draws approval from the audience, but they are interrupted by Tatiana tugging on Carol's gown. Both Doug and Carol look down at her to see what is so important. She looks up and them and beams her happiness.

Tatiana (looking up at them):
Now, we're REALLY married!

Doug laughs and reaches down to scoop her up in his arms.

Cut to show time lapse. Everyone is at the reception now and some of their former colleagues are getting a first look at Doug and Mark's new work headquarters.

Kerry (to Mark):
This is really nice...I wish the two of you well.

Mark:
Thank you, Kerry...so do I.

Carter (holds up a glass of champagne to Doug):
Congratulations, Dr. Ross. You finally let us all in on it.

Doug:
Thanks, Carter.
(steps over to Carol and takes her by the arm)
I have something for you...
(hands her an envelope)

Carol (confused):
What's this?

Doug:
It's a wedding present.

Carol (anguished):
But, I didn't get you anything!

Doug:
I didn't ask you to! This was all my own idea. It's really for both of us.

Carol opens the envelope and takes out the airline tickets.

Carol (holding the tickets):
What is this?

Doug:
Two first class plane tickets to Pennsylvania and reservation confirmations for two days and two nights in the Poconos.
(Carol's face registers GREAT surprise)
You said you didn't think you were as desirable to me...and that the romance was going out of our marriage...well...I intend to spend the next 48 hours proving you wrong.

Carol (excited):
Just the two of us? No kids?

Doug (grins):
Just us. Mark is staying at the house with the kids.

Carol:
How soon do we leave?

Doug (laughs):
Plane leaves in 2 hours.

Carol (takes him by the hand):
I'm throwing the bouquet and we're out of here!

With no audio, show Doug retrieving and tossing the garter. Show Peter Benton catch it with all the men clapping him on the back and Lizzie Corday winking at him. Show Carol tossing the bouquet and Anna Del Amico catching it with all the women vying hard for it before she does. Show time lapse with everyone lined up out the door and Doug and Carol coming out in street clothes to get into a limousine with the crowd throwing rice at them. Just before they get in the limo, Doug turns quickly back to Mark.

Doug:
We stocked the house and I left you a note. Take care of things for us, OK? We'll be back Sunday night.

Mark (pushes him towards the limo):
Don't worry!

Doug gets into the limo and he and Carol wave good-bye to the crowd. As soon as they are away from the curb, Carol almost climbs on Doug's lap and starts kissing him passionately.

Carol:
Our honeymoon starts right now!

Doug smiles and responds with happy noises from his throat as he wraps his arms around her and kisses her sweetly.

Focus on both of them making happy sounds and Fade Act Four to Black.

Closing Act

Scene opens at the Ross home. Carol is getting things ready but in the background we can hear the baby crying loudly.

Carol (calls through the house);
Doug! Can you see what's wrong with him, Please? I don't want us to be late!

Cut to show Doug going into the nursery and picking Marc up out of his crib. The baby continues to howl and Doug winces against the pain in his ears.

Doug (rocks Marc on his shoulder):
What's wrong, Buddy?
(puts his hand on his diaper and shakes his head)
You're OK there...
(he turns Marc to look at him and the baby cries loudly. While he is crying, Doug takes a closer look)
You getting a tooth in there, Pal?
(he takes his finger and puts it gently on Marc's gums to look. The baby's mouth is angry red)
OK, Little guy...I'll fix you right up.

He carries the crying baby with him downstairs to the kitchen, gets into the freezer, and takes out a freeze pop in plastic and puts it in Marc's mouth. The baby begins to gnaw down on it quickly and his crying stops.

Carol (comes downstairs):
Thank God you got him under control! What's wrong with him?

Doug (hands Marc to her):
He's cutting a tooth.

Carol (winces):
Ouch. Poor baby.
(calls up the steps)
Tatchie! Scott! Let's move it!
(turns to Doug)
Are you ready?

Doug (nods):
I hope so.

They both turn their attention to the thundering sound of two children racing down the steps. Carol makes one quick check to be sure everyone passes inspection and they go out the door together.

Cut to the Center, exterior. There is a banner across the front of it that reads "Grand Opening". People are lined up outside the center, waiting for the doors to open. Doug pulls the jeep onto a back parking lot and he and Carol go in the staff door with the kids. Make note to pan on a basketball hoop at the end of the parking lot near the alley.

Mark (seeing Doug and Carol come in):
Oh, Great! You made it!

Doug (motions behind him):
Where did all those people come from?

Mark:
Well, we put an add in the paper that we were welcoming the community to our service today. I guess they want to check us out!

Doug (sarcastic tone):
Mooch the free food is more like it.

Mark (nods):
That too.

Nina (looks at the clock):
I guess we better open the doors. Mark? You want to do the honors?

Mark:
Oh, no. This is a team service, we will all go together!

The four of them together swing open the main lobby door and let people start filing in. They line up and there are ad libs of "hello's", introductions, and hand shakes with people as they come in. Some people are from the nearby community that will be benefiting from the service. Some people are former coworkers there to support them.

Cut to show time lapse. People are gathered around, drinking punch and eating cake. Focus on Kerry Weaver standing in a corner with Carol.

Kerry:
If you don't mind me asking, Carol, how was the honeymoon?

Carol (devilish grin):
It was PERFECT!
(Both giggle)

Cut to show Doug standing alone and David Morganstern coming over to him.

David:
This is very nice, Doug. I think you and Mark will do very well here.

Doug (nods):
Thanks, David. I'm excited and nervous at the same time.

David:
Understandable. But that will pass once you get going.

Cut to show Mark standing near the reception desk with John Carter.

Carter:
So, you got everybody hired?

Mark:
Yeah, but, they aren't here. We decided it might be better that way.

Carter:
This is a big project...but I know you and Dr. Ross can handle it.

Mark:
Carter...
(stops, shakes his head and puts his hand on Carter's shoulder)
John...we're all doctors and we're all friends. I think you can call us by our first names now.

Carter:
Might be a hard habit to break. I just go by the way I was trained.

Mark:
Try, OK?

Carter (nods):
I sure will, Dr.…
(stops short and grins nervously)
...Mark.

Cut to show Nina Pomerantz inching over to where Doug Ross is standing alone.

Nina:
So, how are things with you?

Doug:
I'm fine.

Nina:
I thought about you recently. You had an anniversary of your own. Did it effect you any?

Doug:
I had a few nightmares, but, on the whole, I did OK. Better than I expected. I think I might finally be putting all that behind me.

Nina:
I don't want to discourage you or anything, but, that event will never be behind you. And it can strike back again at any time without notice. Just want you to be prepared.

Doug (grins):
Well, the good news now, Nina, is that you are only about 10 steps away from me!

Nina (as she starts away):
And my door is always open...anytime.

Doug smiles as she mixes back into the crowd of people. But, he looks out the window and sees something he didn't before. From the lobby doorway, he can see the parking garage next to County Hospital several blocks away. He focuses on the concrete building for a minute, then shakes his head and mingles back with the guests.

Focus on the group of people, still laughing and talking, and Fade into the closing credits of the show.

March 8, 1998