Author's Text

Off on a new horizon...and exploring another side of Doug Ross. A business side. A side of a man who knows what he wants...and how to get it.

And there are a lot of seeds planted in this story for future things to come...

The characters in this story are not mine and no money is made by me for the use of them in this story.

Robin

"ER"
"Money Talks"
Opening Act

Scene opens in a Pediatrician's office somewhere in Chicago. Show Carol Ross standing beside an exam table, holding the hands of her 15 month old son, Marc. The little boy is lying on his stomach on the table, naked from the waist down. Carol tries not to look at the doctor rubs an alcohol prep on Marc's little bottom, but she winces and bites her lip at the needle plunges into his tender skin. The baby starts bawling almost instantly and as soon as the needle is out, Carol picks him up and cradles him on her shoulder.

Carol (rocking and soothing him):
Oh, I know! I know, Marcus! That hurts! Mommy's so sorry, Sweetheart.

The little boy keeps his arms wrapped around her neck and cries loudly while she continues to rock him.

Doctor:
He's way ahead of my other patients his age, Carol...

Carol (surprised):
He is?

Doctor (nods):
Oh, yeah! He's walking well...knows lots of words...if I were you, I'd have his IQ tested.

Carol (shakes her head):
No, I don't want to get into that kind of stuff yet. He's much too young for that. I want him to be a little boy for a while yet before he has to worry about that kind of stuff.
(Kisses Marc gently...the baby is about stopped crying but his face is tear stained)

Doctor:
You can dress him now.
(starts writing on a chart)
The triplets are doing just fine...

Carol (concerned):
Even Josh?

Doctor:
Joshua is a little behind his sisters, but, that's not unusual for preemies. How is his breathing doing at night?

Carol (dressing Marc on the table):
He's doing better...the alarm hardly goes off anymore.

Doctor:
Well, don't worry, Carol...he'll catch up...he just needs a little more time. He's gained a pound and a half since his last check-up so I'm not concerned about his growth. He's fine.

Carol (picks Marc up now fully dressed):
And the girls?

Doctor:
Lana and Tina are just a tad below my other patients their age, but, they are fine considering they were several weeks early.
(Looks up from his writing and smiles at her)
Your family is doing just fine, Carol.

Carol (puts Marc in the stroller with the triplets):
Then Doug and I must be doing something right!

Doctor:
How is Doug doing these days?

Carol (nods):
He's fine.

Doctor:
Word on the street is he's going to be Chief of Pediatrics at County? Is that right?

Carol:
Well, he hasn't accepted the position yet...there are a lot of insinuating circumstances...I think he'd like to accept it very much, but, he hasn't officially made up his mind yet.

Doctor:
He'd be a good choice...I wish him luck with his decision.

Carol:
Thanks, I'll be sure and tell him.
(starts pushing the stroller to the door)
We'll see you in about six months.

Doctor:
Have a good day, Carol.

As Carol goes out of the office with the twins she hears one of the waiting patients whisper to another one 'Mercy, do you suppose ALL of those children belong to that ONE poor woman?' and she just smiles as she takes her children out with her.

Cut to a pet shop in a shopping mall. Show Doug, Tatiana, Scott, and Raoul looking into a glass tank full of mice.

Tatiana:
Aren't they CUTE, Papa?

Doug (getting aggravated):
I thought you wanted a hamster?

Tatiana:
I didn't know mice were so cute!

Scott:
Can we have mice, Dad?

Doug:
No! We came to get a hamster...

Scott:
But that's for her! Can't Raoul and I have something, too?

Doug (sighs):
Oh, all right...you guys pick out whatever you want and let's GO already!

Clerk:
Can I help you, Sir?

Doug:
God, I hope so...if these kids ever make up their minds!

Tatiana (pointing excitedly to a small cream and tan hamster in a cage):
THAT one, Papa! I want THAT one!

Doug (to Clerk):
We need that hamster...
(turns to the boys)
What about you guys? What do you want?

Scott:
Can we have a Rat?

Doug:
NO rats...unless you all want to live in the garage! Your Mother would never live in the same house with a rat...

Scott (laughing):
Why not? She sleeps with YOU doesn't she?

Doug:
Watch it, pal...

Raoul:
Does Mama like Mice?

Doug:
Well, I don't think she LIKES them, but, two mice in a cage would probably be OK...two FEMALE mice...I don't want a population explosion in your bedroom.

Scott (looks at Raoul):
Better than nothing...
(Raoul nods)
You pick one and I'll pick one...

The clerk goes back and gets the hamster and picks out two female mice, a black and white one and brown one with white feet, watching to see the children all nod their approval before she puts them in boxes for them.

Clerk:
You need anything else?

Tatiana:
He has to have a house! And one of those little wheels to run around in!

Scott:
Yeah! Ours too!

Doug (sighs):
Whatever it takes to set these things up...we need everything.

Doug stands at the counter and watches as the clerk takes out glass tanks, wheels, litter, food, water bottles, and toys and starts ringing everything up on the computer. He shakes his head at the figures, but, can't help but notice the three smiling faces looking excitedly back up at him, and he just gets his wallet out to pay for everything as the Opening Act Fades into the Opening Credits of the show.

Act One

Scene opens at the Ross home, exterior. Show Carol pulling the van into the driveway. Then show Carol and Amy getting into the back seats and taking the children out of their car seats to take them into the house. Amy carries Tina and Lana, Carol carries Josh and lets Marc toddle along beside her. He stops in route to the house to stoop down and pick up a ball in the yard and carry it in with him. Carol goes in and Amy takes Josh from her to take the three younger children to the nursery, while Marc toddles hurriedly to Doug, who is working at the computer in the living room.

Marc (happily):
Da Da Da Da Da Da Da!

Doug (stops working, reaches down to pick him up):
Hey, Buddy!
(Carol comes over to him and kisses him lightly):
How'd it go at the doctor?

Carol:
Everybody's fine...Josh is a little behind but I guess that's to be expected...

Doug:
Has he gained any weight?

Carol:
Pound and a half.

Doug (nods):
Then he's doing OK...as long as he doesn't lose any weight there's no cause for concern.

Carol (pushing Marc's hair around on his head):
Marc had to have a booster shot...he wasn't too happy.

Doug (kisses Marc's head):
He doesn't look any worse for the wear now.

Carol:
Yeah, he's OK now.
(pause)
Do we have a hamster?

Doug (nods):
Yes, we do...and also two mice as well.

Carol (groans):
Mice? Oh, Doug! Tell me you're kidding!

Doug:
Well, the boys wanted something, too, and they did make a good point...Tatiana IS keeping the hamster in HER room. They wanted something for their room, too.

Carol (rolls her eyes):
I suppose...

Doug:
That's what I get for taking all of them with me together. Do you know that a $4 hamster and two $2 mice cost almost $100 to carry out of the pet shop?

Carol:
Good grief! What all did you have to buy for them?

Doug:
I don't know, but, I think they have hot and cold water running water in those houses now...
(Carol laughs)

Carol:
Well, I guess I better go see our new additions...

Doug:
Scrubs doesn't like them...he hasn't stopped growling since they came in the house.

Carol (as she goes through the house):
Let's hope I like them...

Cut to the Greene home. Show Mark and Nina sitting at the table with Emma and Rachel. As soon as the girls are finished with breakfast, they start to jump up and run out.

Nina:
Hey! Hey! Hey! Not so fast! You girls both make your bed and clean up your room?
(Emma and Rachel stop dead in their tracks and look at each other)
I didn't think so.
(motions over her shoulder)
Go do it...now!

Rachel (scoffs):
Well, Mommy doesn't make me do that at her house.

Mark:
Well, in case you forgot, you're not in Mom's house now, you're in mine. And in this house, we all make our bed and keep our rooms clean.

Rachel pouts, but doesn't protest, and goes on out of the room with Emma. Once they are gone, Mark and Nina shake their heads and look at each other, then they start laughing and go back to breakfast.

Cut back to the Ross home. Doug is still working at the computer. Show Carol come into the room and come over to where he is working and put her arms around his shoulders, resting her head on his.

Carol:
What are you working on?

Doug:
Oh, it's just a monthly report for the hotel. I told Karen I'd do them for a while until she got a little more settled.

Carol:
How does it look?

Doug (nods):
Looks good...nice profit...we could almost live off the hotel alone.

Carol (sits in the chair next to him):
Can we talk?

Doug (turns to look at her):
Sure! What's up?

Carol:
Are you going to take this position at the hospital?

Doug:
That depends on a lot of things. If they can't promise me a Pedes ER unit, then, I don't know. I know there's other angles and other things I could do there, but, without a, ER unit just for Pedes, I'd be hard pressed to say yes.
(looks at her)
Why? Is this something you want me to do?

Carol:
I want you to do whatever you want to do...as long as you're happy. I'm just concerned about you holding down two jobs...

Doug:
Well, the schedule at the center is always pretty light. It's not very taxing. The most stress I'd have would be the hospital, which has always been my main source of stress in my life.

Carol:
I know, and that worries me. You haven't had that kind of stress for two years...I don't know if I want you going back to that again.

Doug:
I think it'll be OK...

Carol:
Does that mean you're going to accept?

Doug:
I'm going to wait and see what the board decides first...if they want me...and can give me what I want...then we'll talk...but if you don't want me to do this, then tell me now. Because I want you to be happy with my decision, too.

Carol:
If this is what you want, then I want you to take it. I just hope it's not too much for you.

Doug (reaches over and pulls her to his lap and sits her down):
You worry too much...

Carol (leans down on him):
I'm your wife...that's my job...one of us has to worry about you...

Tatiana (bursting into the room suddenly):
Papa! Come quick!

Doug:
What's the problem, Punkin?

Tatiana:
I think Barney is dead!

Doug:
Why do you think he's dead, Sweetie?

Tatiana:
Because he just LAYS there in his cage.

Doug:
He's just sleeping, Honey.

Tatiana:
Why doesn't he wake up?

Doug (grins):
Well, because hamsters are nocturnal...

Tatiana:
Knocked WHAT?

Doug:
Nocturnal...that means they sleep during the day and are awake at night.

Tatiana (disappointed):
You mean he won't be awake when I am?

Doug:
Not while he's little like he is now, but, when he gets bigger he will.

Tatiana:
Boy...you shouldda told me that, Papa!
(she goes out and Doug just chuckles as she goes)

Doug (innocently):
She didn't ask...

Carol (grins):
She'll be OK...

Doug:
What about you, Carol? Have you given any more thought to the clinic situation?

Carol:
I have an appointment to talk to the hospital about that. They really need some help there to get it running right. I don't know, Doug...part of me wants to work and a bigger part of me doesn't.

Doug:
Well, you know, you don't HAVE to work. We have plenty of money. It should be something you WANT to do.

Carol (nods):
I know...and that's what's making the decision so hard.
(they are interrupted by the phone ringing)
I'll get it...
(goes across the room and picks up the phone)
Ross Residence!

Anspaugh (on the other end):
Hello there, Carol! This is Donald Anspaugh... Is Doug at home today?

Carol (smiles):
Yes, Dr. Anspaugh...let me get him for you.
(Holds the receiver out to Doug)
It's Dr. Anspaugh.

Doug gets up and goes over to take the phone. Carol stands close to him to listen in.

Doug:
Yes, Dr. Anspaugh?

Anspaugh:
Hello, Doug! I'm sorry to bother you on your day off!

Doug (chuckles):
That's quite all right...

Anspaugh:
I was wondering if you could come in this afternoon for a board meeting. We have some announcements to make that will be of interest to you.

Doug (nods):
Sure, I can be there.

Anspaugh:
Say about two o'clock?

Doug (nods again):
Not a problem! I'll be there!

Anspaugh:
We'll see you then, Doug.

Doug (hangs up the phone, turns to Carol):
I guess we're about to find out whether I'm taking this position or not. The board is meeting at two o'clock and they want me to be there.

Carol:
Then you better be getting dressed...

Doug (nods):
Yeah!

Cut to County Hospital. Show Kerry Weaver coming through the hallway and she sees Donald Anspaugh in the hallway ahead of her. She hurries to catch up with him, calling out to stop him.

Kerry (calling out):
Dr. Anspaugh!
(Anspaugh stops and turns his attention to her)
I heard there was a board meeting this afternoon...I was just wondering if the decision had been made on the Pediatric wing for the ER?

Anspaugh:
Yes, the board has reviewed all of that now.

Kerry:
And the decision would be?

Anspaugh:
If you don't mind my asking, Dr. Weaver, why are you so interested in the decisions on this project?

Kerry:
Because I work in the ER and any decision that involves it effects me and my staff.

Anspaugh:
Are you sure there's no personal interest in this? Like perhaps, you're worried about having to work with Doug Ross again?

Kerry:
I never had any problems working with Doug Ross as long as he stayed within the rules...which wasn't often. I will admit that I'm a bit concerned about having a man like him in authority, yes.

Anspaugh:
Dr. Ross is an excellent doctor. He may not do things the conventional way, but, sometimes the conventional way isn't always the best way. He is willing to take chances for the sake of a life and that's something you could well learn from him, Dr. Weaver.

Kerry (scoffs):
I don't think there's anything I could learn from Doug Ross...

Anspaugh (annoyed):
Well, learn from him or not, Dr. Weaver, you may be taking orders from him if the board has their way. He was approved for this position unanimously. Now, if you will excuse me, I have a board meeting to get ready for.

Anspaugh goes off and leaves Kerry standing in the hallway with an exasperated look on her face as Act One Fades to Black.

Act Two

Scene opens at County ER. Show the staff there working and moving about quickly as Doug comes through the entrance doors and starts down the hallway. Kerry Weaver looks up from her work at the desk and sees him as he goes by.

Kerry (calls out):
Doug! Have you got a minute?

Doug (stops, reluctantly):
Sure, Kerry...what do you need?

Kerry (comes out from behind the counter and goes to him):
We never really got a chance to talk about that Pedes case the other day...I was wondering if we could confer our procedures with each other.

Doug (sighs):
I don't really think there's much need for that, do you? I mean, the patient is fine now so what does it matter?

Kerry:
Well, I just wanted you to understand my reasoning...

Doug:
I understand your reasoning completely...you aren't trained to work on children and you made a mistake...

Kerry (offended):
No, I didn't make a mistake...my procedure was perfectly acceptable...

Doug:
Perfectly acceptable for an adult...NOT for a child. All you did was further illustrate my point that Pedes doctors should handle Pedes cases...

Kerry:
I am perfectly capable of handling any case that comes through that door! I'm an ER doctor...that's my job!

Doug:
I don't doubt your abilities, Kerry...I know you're a good doctor. But, I just think children require special attention and they don't get that here.

Kerry:
You're trying to divide the ER into separate units...

Doug:
I'm trying to give the ER an added edge to make it better. I'm not trying to take your job...or take anything away from you...I'm simply trying to make sure children get the best care available to them.

Kerry:
Well, this plan of yours isn't the way to do it...I thought that's why you went into private practice?

Doug:
Look, Kerry, I'm not some dumb jackass, OK? I know a few things, too. And I know my field. And I can read figures. They are trying to bring me in here because the quality of Pediatric care has deteriorated in the ER since I left and they are concerned about it. Now, if my ideas will fix that problem and make this unit better, WHY is that such a problem for you?

Kerry:
That's a gross exaggeration that the care of Pedes has deteriorated! That's simply the opinion of Neil Bernstein...and he's leaving anyway, so he would say anything.

Doug:
It's not a gross exaggeration...it's cold hard facts! I've read the reports, and I've seen the numbers. You guys should just hang a sign on the door that reads NO PLACE FOR KIDS on it...

Kerry (scoffs):
That's absurd! You specialty doctors think your field is the only one that matters...

Doug:
That's not true! I care about any living, breathing person that comes through that door and needs medical attention...but I'm also trained to work with children...and I think they deserve to have someone trained to work on them treat them...that's all!
(looks at his watch)
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm late for a meeting with the board of directors.

Doug goes on down the hall to the elevator. Kerry stands and watches him go, shaking her head. Then she turns and goes back to her work.

Cut to show Doug coming quickly down the hall and coming into the board room where all the doctors on the board are already assembled at the table. Doug comes in and slides into a chair near the door.

Doug (apologetically):
Sorry I'm late...

Anspaugh:
Quite all right, Dr. Ross! We're just glad you could make it!
(opens his folder)
Well, I suppose we should just get right to basics. The board has voted unanimously for you to take the position of Chief of Pediatrics...
(he pauses and waits for Doug's reaction)

Doug (nods):
Thank you, very much. I'm very flattered that all of you want me back.

Anspaugh (clears his throat to continue):
However, having reviewed your ideas for a Pediatric wing, we regret to inform you that the hospital simply does not have the funds to meet this project.
(frowns)
I sincerely wish we did, because it's a damn good plan. But our budget simply won't allow it.

Doug (thinking):
But, the hospital would approve the idea, if you had the funds?

Anspaugh (nods):
Absolutely. We agree with your report that there is a need for a Pediatrics unit in the ER...you back up your statements very well with examples of times it would have made a difference.

Doug (still thinking):
So, you agree with me that the ER needs a Pedes care unit?

Anspaugh (nods):
Yes, absolutely. Your ideas are wonderful. And it would be an asset to this hospital if we could utilize them. I wish we had the money to do it, but not this year. It would take another two years to juggle the budget to fit something like this in.

Doug:
What would it take to build this wing? Roughly?

Anspaugh:
Well, the committee estimates to build and staff this unit, because we would have to bring in more Pediatric doctors, somewhere in the neighborhood of six million dollars.

Doug (still thinking):
And this would furnish the wing AND the staff?

Anspaugh:
Roughly, yes.

Doug:
Suppose I could get the funds? Would the hospital allow me to do this on my own? This is providing, of course, I decide to accept your very generous offer.

Anspaugh (nods):
The hospital would be happy to accept any donations made to it.

Doug:
What about staffing? Would I be in charge of hiring the doctors for this unit?

Anspaugh:
As Chief of Pediatrics, yes, that would be one of your jobs.

Doug (nods):
OK...why don't you give me some time on this to see what I can come up with. I won't accept or decline the position yet, but I will tell you I will be giving it serious consideration. Should I decide to decline the position, I will give you adequate time to find another candidate. Is that good enough?

Anspaugh:
Certainly, Dr. Ross. You know our position...we will be anxious to hear from you.

Doug (nods):
OK, then, I guess I better get started and see what I can come up with.

Anspaugh:
We certainly appreciate your time, Dr. Ross. Thank you for coming.

Doug nods and gets up to go on out of the meeting. He passes back through the ER and he stops to observe John Carter working with a young child in a trauma room. The child is bloody, and crying, but Carter is kind and caring, soothing the child all the while he is working on her. He is talking to her and laughing, keeping her preoccupied with him and not what he is doing. Doug smiles as he watches, and ticks his head. Then, he turns and goes on out of the ER under the watchful eye of Kerry Weaver, who turns as soon as he is gone and heads for the elevator.

Cut to show Kerry getting off the elevator just as the meeting is breaking up in the board room. She meets up with David Morganstern and begins walking down the hallway with him.

Kerry:
I think it's really a good thing that you stayed on the board even though you left the hospital.

David:
Well, they asked me to remain and I was honored they wanted my input still for the hospital.

Kerry:
So, how did the meeting go? Is Doug Ross coming back?

David:
Well, he doesn't know yet. I think he truly wants the position, but, he also wants the Pediatric wing in the ER and the hospital simply doesn't have the budget for that right now.

Kerry (smiles):
Yeah, I tried to explain those kind of things to him, but he just doesn't understand about administration...he just knows what he wants.

David:
Well, I think he understands...he's willing to put his own money into the project if that's what it takes.

Kerry (confused):
Put his own money into it?

David (stops walking, pushes the elevator button):
Yes, he's looking into funding it himself.

Kerry:
Well, a project like that would take several million dollars, wouldn't it?

David (nod):
Six million, in a rough estimate.

Kerry:
Well, where would Doug Ross get six million dollars?

David (smiles):
The same place Carol Hathaway got the money to start the free clinic...sponsors and donations. And part of it will likely be his own money.

Kerry (Confused):
His own money?

David (laughs):
Yeah! Doug is a millionaire...didn't you know that? His father owned the Drake Hotel...Doug owns it now.

Kerry (stunned):
I had no idea...

David (as the elevator opens):
Well, we'll just have to see what happens.

Kerry (nods her head as David gets in the elevator):
Yeah...I guess we will.

The elevator door closes and leaves Kerry standing in the hallway mulling this new information over in her mind, then she goes on off down the hallway.

Cut to show Carol coming into the office of Mrs. Carter. Mrs. Carter is seated behind a desk and she smiles when she sees Carol.

Mrs. Carter:
Hello, Dear. Please come in.
(Carol comes in and slips into a chair)
How is that lovely little family of yours?

Carol (smiles):
Oh, they're fine. Thank you.

Mrs. Carter:
And the new little boy? Your foster child? How is he adapting?

Carol (smiles again):
Raoul is doing just fine. Thank you, again, for asking.

Mrs. Carter:
Well, that's certainly good to hear. Now, you said the nature of this visit was business?

Carol (nods):
Yes, I wanted to talk to you about the free clinic we started? It used to be at the hospital, but, now it in it's own facility?

Mrs. Carter:
Yes, I toured the new facility at the Grand Opening of it. Is there a problem with it now?

Carol:
Well, as you know, I haven't given the clinic much time lately...

Mrs. Carter (chuckles):
No, not pregnant with triplets, I don't imagine you had much time. And now that those little darlings are all here, I don't imagine you have much time now, either!

Carol:
Well, I have help...we hired a Nanny...

Mrs. Carter:
A Nanny is never a replacement for a mother's love. You can ask my Grandson about that. You let a Nanny help, Dear, but, I hope you'll still take time to take care of your own children.

Carol (nods):
Oh, I am, yes. I love taking care of my children. But I also have a fondness for the clinic. And I'm concerned about the shape it's in right now. It's not being run properly.

Mrs. Carter:
Well, what's wrong with it, Dear?

Carol:
It needs someone to go in and take control of it. It needs an administrator.

Mrs. Carter:
Well, it is a free clinic. And it is being run strictly on a volunteer basis...

Carol:
I understand that. But, it still needs someone to oversee it's operation and make sure it's taken care of. The clinic is a good thing...and it does good work...but it still needs proper care to run smoothly.

Mrs. Carter:
Well, do you have someone in mind for this job?

Carol (smiles):
Yes, Ma'am...
(taps her chest)
Me.

Mrs. Carter:
You? A woman with seven children at home thinks she would have time to maintain the operation of a clinic?

Carol:
I have a projection plan for it...I'd like you to read it and see what you think. If you don't think my plan would work, then, I'll personally man the campaign to find a suitable administrator.
(Hands her an envelope)

Mrs. Carter (takes the envelope and gives Carol a look of approval):
Sounds like you've given this a lot of thought.

Carol:
The clinic is important to me, Mrs. Carter. I started it and I'd hate to see anything happen to it.

Mrs. Carter:
Well, all right, then. I'll read over what you've come up with and we'll get together again to talk about this some more.

Carol (nods, smiles):
Thank you, Mrs. Carter. I appreciate it
. (gets up to leave)

Mrs. Carter (as Carol gets to the door):
You surprised me, Carol...I didn't know you had such a head for business.

Carol (stops, smiles):
I didn't either.

Carol goes on out of Mrs. Carter's office and out to the van with a smile on her face as Act Two Fades to Black.

Act Three

Scene opens at a very posh corporate office in downtown Chicago. Show Doug getting off the elevator and stepping up the a reception desk, waiting for the secretary to get off the phone and acknowledge him.

Receptionist:
I'm sorry to keep you waiting, may I help you, Sir?

Doug:
Yes, is Mr. Adams in his office, Please?

Receptionist:
May I tell him who's calling, Please?

Doug:
Yeah, tell him it's Doug Ross.

Receptionist:
And do you have an appointment?

Doug:
No, I don't. This is a personal visit.

Receptionist (picks up phone and pushes button):
Yes, Mr. Adams, there is a Doug Ross here to see you? He says it's a personal visit.

Cut to show Clark Adams coming quickly out of his office, extending his hand and a smile to Doug when he sees him.

Clark:
Doug! How are you!? Come on in, Please!

Doug shakes hands with him and follows him into his office.

Clark:
Can I get you anything? Coffee? Anything at all?

Doug (shakes his head):
No, thanks. I'm fine.

Clark:
Well...
(motions Doug to sit down)
...what can I do for you?

Doug (sits in a big stuffed leather chair across from his desk):
I wanted to talk to you about a business deal.

Clark (smiles):
Always happy to talk about business! Something up with the hotel? You want to sell me your share, perhaps?

Doug (chuckles):
Not on your life, Pal! I just did the monthly figures and my family could live off the profits of that hotel alone! There's no way I want to sell it.

Clark:
But, that's not what you do. You're a doctor...

Doug:
Yes, and being a doctor is what I wanted to talk to you about. I've been offered the position of Chief of Pediatrics at County Hospital...

Clark:
Your old stomping grounds? You must be thrilled. That's quite an honorable position to be offered.

Doug (nods):
Yeah, and I would love to accept the position...

Clark (nods):
Uh oh...but?

Doug:
I want the hospital to provide a Pediatric wing for the ER unit before I will consider accepting this position.

Clark:
And your reasoning for that is?

Doug:
It's needed. Pediatric patients require special care. And while all residents in ER medicine are trained to handle all cases, I think children should be handled by people trained to take care of them. The hospital will approve the wing, but they don't have the funds to finance it.

Clark (nods):
I see...you're here to get money?

Doug:
You're the man with the fortune...
(chuckles) ...I can put up some of it...and I have one other source I'm going to ask for help. I just wanted to see if I could get you on it, too.

Clark:v Do you have anything on this project? Anything I can read?

Doug (pushes him an envelope):
Yeah, this is the same plan I presented to the hospital. The committee says it will take roughly six million to do this, that's build it and staff it with Pedes doctors.

Clark (picks up envelope):
OK...you give me a couple of days to look this over, and let's talk again? Is that good enough?

Doug (nods):
That's all I'm asking.

Clark (reaches his hand to shake)
: Well, I'll give it a look over...and have my lawyer look at it...and maybe we'll be partners in another business!

Doug (shakes his hand):
Thanks, Clark! I really appreciate it.

Cut to show Doug pacing around outside the ER entrance back at County General. He looks up every time somebody comes out but keeps pacing. Finally, show John Carter come out and Doug approaches him quickly.

Doug:
John! Do you have a minute?

Carter (stops, turns to Doug):
Sure, Dr. Ross!

Doug (ticks his head):
Can we go someplace and have coffee? My treat?

Carter (nods):
That would be great!

Doug nods and they go off together.

Cut to show Kerry Weaver going into Donald Anspaugh's office. She slams the door and approaches his desk quickly.

Anspaugh (annoyed):
I don't believe we have an appointment, Dr. Weaver?

Kerry:
Do I hear right? This hospital is going to allow Doug Ross to have his way with the ER just because he has MONEY?

Anspaugh:
No, that's not true. Dr. Ross has not even accepted the Pediatric position we've offered him yet. But he did offer to help fund the Pediatric wing should he decide to take the position, yes...if that's any of your concern...and I don't think it is.

Kerry:
Anything that effects the work center of the ER is my business, Dr. Anspaugh. The ER has been working effectively without any problems, and I don't see the need to change the way things are done now...

Anspaugh:
Well, the Board feels differently. We agreed with Dr. Ross' proposal and we feel he is right about Pediatric care in the ER. He was right when he was here before and he's right now. We should have listened to him then. Maybe things wouldn't be the way they are now if we had.

Kerry:
Dr. Anspaugh, there is NOTHING wrong with the Pediatric care in the ER...Doug Ross' theory is based on his specialty, not reality...

Anspaugh:
Well, the Board disagrees. And quite frankly, so do I. I don't know what your personal problem with Doug Ross is, Dr. Weaver, but I suggest you be doing something to take care of it. If Doug Ross accepts this position he WILL be in control of Pediatrics! Now, whether you approve of that or not, you WILL be expected to abide by it as long as you work in this hospital. Do I make myself clear?

Kerry (tight lip):
Yes, Dr. Anspaugh.

Anspaugh:
Now, if there's nothing else, you'll please excuse me? I have a lot of work to do.

Kerry nods her head and slips slowly out of Anspaugh's office.

Cut to show Doug and John Carter sitting together at a coffee shop, drinking coffee, and Carter is eating a piece of pie.

Carter (taking the last bite):
Good pie! You should have had some!

Doug (chuckles):
No thanks...I'm not hungry.

Carter (looks up, grins):
Well, I'm sure this isn't a social call...something on your mind?

Doug:
Yeah, I wondered if we could talk about something important?

Carter (smiles):
Fire away! I'm all ears.

Doug:
I've watched you with kids in the ER and you're really very good with them. Your Residency is ending it's second year...now is the time for you to start thinking about a specialty if you're going to pick one and I just wondered if you had ever considered Pediatrics as a specialty?

Carter (shakes his head):
I never really thought about it...no...why?

Doug:
I think you should think about it. You're very good with kids...and you have the kind of bedside manner a Pedes doctor needs to have. I think it would be an excellent choice for you.

Carter:
Well, thanks for that...I really appreciate it...especially coming from you. But, I'm really more interested in ER medicine.

Doug:
What if you could do both?

Carter (confused):
Do both? I don't think I understand...

Doug:
I've been offered the position of Chief of Pediatrics at County...I'd like to accept the position, but, not without a Pediatric wing in the ER. Because I believe that children need special attention and should only be handled by Pedes doctors. You have the training in ER medicine. All you need is the training in handling children and what the differences are. And as bright as you are, I could teach you that myself in no time at all.
(Carter smiles shyly)
What do you think? Are you interested?

Carter:
I'm flattered. And it sounds like an interesting proposition. I'd be interested in hearing more.

Doug:
If I can get the funding I need for this unit, then I will be allowed to staff it myself. And I want people who are good with kids and people who genuinely CARE about kids to work in it with me.
(hands him an envelope)
I'd like you to read this. It outlines my plans for the wing as well as your position in my staff if you accept. Look it over and let me know what you think.

Carter (takes envelope):
OK...
(nods)
I'll be happy to. Thank you.

Doug (smiles):
No, John...thank YOU.

Cut to show time lapse. Show Doug getting out of the car in front of the Carter Mansion. He takes a deep breath as he rings the bell. A servant lets him in and he stands nervously in the drawing hall until Mrs. Carter comes out to greet him.

Mrs. Carter:
Come in, Dr. Ross!
(Doug follows her into her office)
Your wife was here earlier...I don't usually do business with two people from the same family in one day.

Doug (surprised):
Carol was here?

Mrs. Carter (smiles, sits behind her desk):
Yes, she presented me with a marvelous proposition for her to be administrator of the clinic...quite impressive! Now, what can I do for you.

Doug:
I'll be brief...the hospital has offered me the position of Chief of Pediatrics...and I would like to accept this position, but, not without the hospital providing a Pediatrics wing in the ER. I'm of the belief that children should be treated by people trained to handle them and County doesn't provide that right now.

Mrs. Carter (knowing smile):
And you need funding for the new wing?

Doug:
I have part of the money myself...I've presented my corporate partner in the Drake with a proposal for him to help and...
(pushes an envelope to her)
...I have one for you as well. Would you be interested?

Mrs. Carter (smiles, takes envelope):
I'm always interested in new business opportunities.

Doug:
We would be donating the wing to the hospital, so, this would be an act of charity.

Mrs. Carter:
My specialty!
(holds up envelope)
I will give this my full consideration and get back with your as soon as possible. Dr. Ross.

Doug (nods):
That's all I'm asking.
(reaches to shake hands with her)
Thank you, Mrs. Carter.

Mrs. Carter (gets up to walk out with him):
Thank YOU, Dr. Ross, for caring so much about our children. Perhaps is we had been fortunate enough to have a doctor like you, Bobby might have had a better chance.

Doug (sadly):
Well, that's something we'll just never know about.

Mrs. Carter:
Good Luck to you, Dr. Ross, in your project. And give my best to that beautiful family of yours.

Doug (at the door):
Thank you, Mrs. Carter. I'll be in touch.

He goes on out of the mansion and gets back in his jeep. He puts both hands on the steering wheel and breathes a sigh of relief as he starts the engine and pulls away and Act Three Fades to Black.

Act Four

Scene opens at a Putt Putt Golf Course. Show Emma, Rachel, Scott, Raoul, and Tatiana ahead of Doug, Carol, Nina, and Mark on a hole. The children are excited, the adults are more subdued.

Emma (quietly to Rachel):
I think Scott is a fox! Don't you?

Rachel (nods, grins):
Yeah! He is!

Mark (quietly to Doug):
I'm not sure I like the looks of what's going on down there...

Doug (chuckles):
What's wrong, Mark? Don't you think we'd be good in-laws?

Mark (shakes his head):
I don't even want to think about it.
(pause as Doug sets up his ball to hit)
So, I hear the Board voted you in?

Doug (nods, hits ball, watches it go):
Yeah, but, now we have to work on getting the wing before I'll accept the position.
(pause)
And you know I don't want to go without you.

Mark:
We already talked about this, Bud...

Doug:
Yeah, I know, but, you know what they say...money talks...I'm hoping I can come up with something that will change your mind.

Mark:
Tell you what...when you get to be Chief of Staff you can make me Chief of the ER and I'll come back. How's that?

Doug:
Are you serious? Because I could probably swing that even without being Chief of Staff!

Mark (chuckles):
I'm KIDDING, Doug. I'm really not interested right now.

Doug (encouraged):
Right now? So, that doesn't rule out the possibilities of later?

Mark:
We'll talk about, OK? You don't even have the wing you want! How are you going to take the position?

Doug:
I'm working on that...I have some irons in the fire...we'll see if they get hot.
(turns to Carol)
Which reminds me...I understand you did business with Mrs. Carter today?

Carol (surprised):
Yeah, I did...how did you know?

Doug (smiles):
Because I also did business with Mrs. Carter today.

Carol (chuckles):
You hit her up for money, in other words?

Doug:
I need help with the funding. I can fund part of it...I asked her for part of it...and I asked Clark for part of it. If the three of us together go into it, we should be able to do it.

Mark:
Hey, what about me? I have money, too, you know! I'd be glad to contribute as well. I think your project is more than worthwhile...

Doug:
Oh really? You didn't think so when we were working there together!

Mark:
Well, things change...I'd like to contribute too...I'm sure I can't offer as much as everybody else, but, I'd still like to help out.

Doug:
All help is appreciated, Mark. I'd be glad to count you in.

Mark:
How are things going with Raoul?

Doug (nods):
Going well. We took him to a specialist and there's nothing wrong inside him. His wetting is emotional. And he's doing a lot better now...gaining some confidence...

Mark:
Have you two considered adopting him?

Doug:
Well, I'm working on trying to get a visit with his mother for him. I don't want him to lose site of who he is. So, no, we haven't considered it. Why? Do you know something I don't?

Mark (sadly):
Beverly was into the office the other day while you were out. She doesn't think you're going to get this visit. His mother just really doesn't want anything to do with him.

Doug (sighs):
I don't understand, you know? That's her son! What did he do for her to reject him like this?

Mark:
I don't know...but you might start looking into adopting him.

Doug nods sadly and continues to walk along the course.

Cut to County ER. John Carter is taking a break in the lounge and reading over Doug's proposal when Kerry Weaver comes in.

Kerry (puts money in a machine):
Working late tonight, Carter?

Carter:
Yeah, I'm on all night...just taking a break.

Kerry:
Reading something interesting?

Carter:
A proposal from Dr. Ross about a Pediatric wing for the ER...

Kerry (sighs):
Oh, come on, Carter! Not you too! You know we don't need anything like that down here...

Carter (shakes his head):
I'm not sure we don't. Dr. Ross makes a lot of valid points.

Kerry:
Well, why would he present it to you anyway? He wants to staff it with Pedes doctors and you don't work in Pedes.

Carter:
He'd like for me too...and I have time to name a specialty...there's worse things I could do...

Kerry:
You're just a bouncing ball, aren't you, Carter? You started in surgery...you came to the ER...now to Pedes?

Carter:
Dr. Ross' proposal keeps me in both...ER medicine and Pedes. It's a good plan. And I think it could work. I'm going to seriously check into it.

Kerry:
Well, Doug hasn't even accepted the position yet...aren't you jumping the gun a little?

Carter (shrugs):
Nothing wrong with being prepared.

Kerry (shortly):
No, nothing wrong with that, I guess...

Focus on her perplexed look and cut scene.

Cut back to the golf course. Show Nina walking along beside Doug as the group goes on along.

Nina (quietly to Doug):
Something I wondered if you've thought about...

Doug (grins):
Uh oh...another surprise!

Nina:
If you go back to County you're going to be parking in that garage again...you'll have to pass by every day the exact site where Greg Powell and his comrades attacked you. Don't you think that's going to stir up some bad memories for you?

Doug (chuckles):
Oh, I think I'm all over that now, Nina.

Nina:
I don't know, Doug. That's a very grey area of your life. I'm not sure everything connected to it is all resolved yet.

Doug:
Greg Powell is dead...he's never going to bother me again... and I think I've waltzed most of the demons out of my closet now. We took care of most of that in Kentucky...

Nina (ticks her head):
I hope you're right, Doug.

Doug:
I'm doing a lot better, Nina. Haven't had any nightmares or anything since we came back. I think we've finally put the biggest part of this behind me now.

Nina (nodding):
Well, it's good that you feel that way...

Doug (confused):
You mean you don't?

Nina:
It's not up to me, Doug...I just know that these kind of traumas have a way of haunting people long after they think they're over it and I want you to be careful. That's all.

Doug:
My biggest concern is going back to County without Mark. I'll really miss him if I go back without him.

Nina:
Well, just between you and me and the lamppost?
(shakes her head)
I don't think Mark will last long in private practice without you. I think he'll end up back there sooner or later if you go.

Doug:
Well, I plan to keep the practice as well for a while...and see how it goes...but, I imagine I will eventually give it up if this job goes like I think it will.

Nina:
Well, you just keep working at Mark...because I know he's thinking about it at least.

Doug (nods, smiles):
Good...I'm glad...

Tatiana (scolding):
Papa, come ON! Are you gonna play or are you gonna talk?

Doug (laughing):
I'm gonna play! I'm coming!

Cut to County ER and show Mrs. Carter coming through the hallway. She sees John working at the desk and strolls casually up to him.

Carter (looks up, surprised):
Gemma! What are you doing here?

Mrs. Carter:
I have a meeting with Dr. Anspaugh...we're going to discuss a charity proposition...

Carter:
In the form of a Pediatrics wing by some chance?

Mrs. Carter (smiles, surprised):
Yes, how did you know?

Carter (grins):
Because Dr. Ross approached me about it, too.

Mrs. Carter:
Approached you? For what reason?

Carter:
He thinks I would be good to work in this unit...he's asking that I make Pedes my specialty and consider coming into this wing with him.

Mrs. Carter:
Sounds like an interesting proposal, John...I'd like us to talk about it later.

Carter (nods):
I'd like that, Gemma.

Mrs. Carter goes on towards the elevator to go to Dr. Anspaugh's office. Show Kerry Weaver watching her go with a tip lipped expression on her face.

Cut back to the golf course. The troop is finishing up on the last hole. The kids are excited and watching their ball go for the hole while the adults look on.

Mark:
OK...stand back and watch a pro.

Doug (joking):
Make way for the Golden Bear!
(Mark makes his shot and they all follow the ball into a corner of the box)
Tiger Woods, eat your heart out!

Mark:
I shanked it!

Doug (pushes Mark away from the mat):
Stand side, Mark! Let me show you how to do this...
(Doug putts and also misses the hole)

Mark (laughing):
Yeah, Doug...that's showing me!

Tatiana (scoffs):
Here! Watch me! You do it like this!
(she haphazardly swats at the ball, it goes around the course and plops into the hole)

Mark (nods):
Figures...this is a kids' game...

Doug (laughing):
Yeah...once you get past a certain age you can't do this anymore...

Carol (rolls her eyes):
Any more excuses, you guys?

Mark:
We'll be thinking of some...

The party goes off the course and heads for the golf shack to turn in their clubs and Carol livens up the spirits of the evening coming to an end.

Carol:
Who wants ice cream?

A chorus of children assure her "I do!" and the party heads for the Ross van as Act Four Fades to Black.

Closing Act

Scene opens at the Ross home. Show Doug sitting up in bed, hooked to his dialysis machine, and reading over Carol's proposal for the clinic. Carol comes in and sits beside him on the bed.

Carol:
Running on the machine tonight, huh?

Doug:
Yeah, I'm a little sluggish so I thought it might help. (doesn't look up):
Marc OK?

Carol:
He's in his crib but he's not happy.

Doug (chuckles):
He'll get happy later.

Carol:
What did you think of my proposal?

Doug (puts it down, smiles at her):
Very impressive. You've put a lot of thought into this. Are you sure this is what you want to do?

Carol:
If I'm the supervisor of the clinic, I'd have to be there all the time. But, if I'm just the administrator, I can make sure the clinic is staffed with people who can take care of it and only go in a couple of times a month to check things out. It's ideal. And I'd get a salary for that, so, I'd have my own money again...

Doug:
Your own money? I thought everything we made was 'ours', there was no 'yours' and 'mine' here?

Carol:
I know, and I agree with that, but, sometimes, I miss having my own money. If I want to buy you an anniversary gift I have to buy it out of 'our' money and I don't like that.

Doug:
Anniversary gift...is that a hint?

Carol:
Why would you ask me that?

Doug:
Because the growth marks on the wall of my children tell me we will soon be married three years...

Carol (sighs):
Doesn't seem possible does it? I mean, as big as our family is, we should be married ten years by now.
(Doug chuckles)

Doug:
Mark told me tonight that Raoul's mother doesn't want to see him...that I'm probably not going to get this visit I wanted for him.

Carol (sighs):
He's going to be crushed. I think he was really looking forward to seeing her.

Doug:
I don't understand how parents can reject a child like that. Mark wanted to know if we considered adopting him.

Carol:
What do you think about that?

Doug (shakes his head):
I don't know…what do you think about it?

Carol:
I think it's one of those things we should look into and talk about as a family.

Doug:
You would consider adopting him formally?

Carol (shrugs):
Why not? He's already part of our family...we'd just be making him permanent.

Doug (nods):
Then we'll start looking into it.

Carol:
We have a lot of things going on right now...a Pedes Wing, the clinic...Raoul...anything else we want to throw in there? Doug (Chuckles):
No, I don't think so. Carol:
Are you going to take this position at the hospital? Doug (nods):
If I get the funding for the unit, yes. Carol:
Do you think you'll get it? Doug:
I think I've got a good chance...I'll find out pretty soon.
(pause)
I've got a call into Pittsburgh Hospital for Abby Keaton. I want to talk to her about coming back. Carol:
I thought she was back in this area?

Doug:
She was for a brief assignment, but she's back in Pittsburgh now. I'd love to get her to come back here and head up the Pedes Surgical unit.

Carol:
I know you had a lot of faith in her...

Doug:
She's the best!
(pause)
I also approached John Carter about this project...

Carol (surprised):
Carter? Why Carter?

Doug:
He's got time to pick a specialty and he's already trained in ER medicine. He's really good with kids and I think he'd make an excellent Pedes doctor.

Carol:
Anyone else you have in mind?

Doug:
Anna Del Amico...she fits in there someplace...and I'm already looking over the Med School students who will be working in the hospital next year.

Carol:
I'm really proud of you, Doug...you've really thought this thing out.

Doug:
I want to be sure I know what I'm doing before I plunge into it feet first.

Carol:
What about Kerry Weaver?

Doug (scoffs):
What about her?

Carol:
Can you work with her again?

Doug:
If I take this job, she'll answer to me...she'll be working for me...not the other way around.

Carol:
But she's the head of the ER...

Doug:
And I'd be the head of ER Pedes...and she's head of the ER for now...who knows what the future holds...

Carol (smiles, knowingly):
You've got a plan, haven't you?

Doug:
I have not yet begun to fight!
(chuckles)

He pulls her to him and kisses her sweetly...the put their heads together and gaze into each other's eyes as the Closing Act Fades into the Closing Credits of the Show.

May 11, 1998