"Murphy's Law"

Opening Act

Scene opens at C.A.R.E. Center, interior, daytime. Show Carol Hathaway sitting on an exam table, with an exasperated look on her face. Pull back to show Mark Greene is taking her blood pressure amid her protests.

Carol (rolls up her sleeve):
I don't see why we have to keep doing this...

Mark:
Because your blood pressure has been going up and down the ladder lately and your doctor said the only way you could keep working was if it was monitored once an hour. That's why.

Carol (sighs):
This is so stupid...

Mark:
It is NOT stupid...

Carol:
That's YOUR opinion...

Mark (nods):
Yes, it is, and right now, the only one here that matters. Are you going to cooperate? Or what?

Carol (sighs):
Proceed DOCTOR Greene...

Mark (sarcastic smile):
Thank you.

Mark pumps the cuff and registers the blood pressure. Carol tries to see what the numbers are, but, Mark cuts her off and doesn't let her see. She gives him a sarcastic look as she gets off the table.

Cut to show Mark showing the figures of Carol's blood pressure to Doug Ross at the front desk. Doug nods at the figures and the three of them join Eleanor and John Carter in daily chatter.

Mark:
So, have you guys come up with a name for the little guy yet?

Doug (chuckles):
Nothing we can agree on.

Carol:
Did you ever see that movie 'She's Having A Baby'? You know how in the end of it everybody is giving their ideal names for a baby? We've been through all of those and then some trying to name this baby...

Carter (laughing):
Is that the one where they suggest the name 'Mucus' for the kid?

Mark (laughing):
'Mucus'! Now, there's a name for a doctor's kid if I ever heard one!

Carol (rolls her eyes):
Oh, Mark, pul-leese!

Doug:
No worse than 'Stephen'!

Carol (defensively):
There is nothing wrong with the name 'Stephen'! I happen to like that name!

Doug:
You want the kid to get the crap kicked out of him every time he goes to school? I don't like 'Stephen' or any of it's nicknames! I'd name him 'Mucus' first! And we're not calling him "Douglas" either, so, don't even suggest it!

Carol (agitated):
I suppose you could be like 'Oliver Barrett' in "LOVE STORY" and suggest Bozo The Clown next...

Doug (snaps):
Better than 'Stephen'! ANYTHING is better than 'Stephen'...

Mark (chuckles):
I see the great dispute over a name has begun.

Doug (shrugs):
We just can't agree.

Carol (rolls her eyes):
Agree? We can't even get close!

Carter:
Well, what about a nice Irish name? Like 'Shamus'?

Doug (explosive laughter):
Shamus?

Mark (echo's Doug):
What kind of a name is 'Shamus'?

Carter (snickers):
Yeah...'Shamus' is an old Carter family name...
(adds lowly)
...thank God it skipped my generation...and if I have my way, it'll skip the next one, too!

Carol:
Shamus is 'James' in Ireland, isn't it

Carter (nods):
Yeah...like Sean is 'John'...just makes things a little different.

Doug (thinking):
Sean...I like Sean...

Carol (hopeful):
Stephen Sean?

Doug:
Will you take 'Stephen' and drive it through a wall someplace? I am NOT letting you name this child 'Stephen'!
(looks coaxingly at Mark)
Help me out here, Buddy!

Mark (shakes his head):
Sorry...I'm only good for Hebrew names. You want a Catholic name, right?

Carol (nods):
We agreed a nice Catholic name would be OK if we can both agree on one.

Mark (shrugs):
What about Matthew? That's a good name, isn't it? He was a Saint, wasn't he?

Doug (nods):
Yeah, but, if I were going to pick one of the Gospels, it would be 'Luke'...no way I'm naming a kid 'Luke'...
(imitates DARTH VADER from STAR WARS)
'I am your Father, Luke'?
(shakes his head)
I don't think so...

Mark:
Well, what Saint's names do you like?

Carol (shakes her head):
We've already been that route, Mark...we haven't agreed on anything yet...

Doug (protesting):
Because you keep going back to 'Stephen'...

Mark (quietly to Carter):
Twenty bucks says the name 'Stephen' goes on the birth certificate when the kid is born...

Doug (looks quickly at Mark):
Over my dead body!

Carol:
Well, then, you need to come up with some names you like and tell me!

Doug:
Well, I like 'Michael'...we talked about 'Michael'...

Mark (laughing):
"Michael Row The Boat Ashore"? That 'Michael'?

Doug (defensively):
That's ONE Michael. I was thinking more of Michael the ArchAngel...

Mark (chuckles):
I would think 'Michael' would be more for Michael Jordan.

Doug (chuckles):
That, too!

Carter:
In that Kevin Bacon movie, what name did they end up with?

Doug:
I think they finally decided on 'Christopher'...

Carol (nodding):
I like 'Christopher'...

Doug (nodding):
Well, 'Christopher' is at least better than 'Stephen'!

Eleanor (speaks up for the first time):
Your baby should have a family name...some tradition handed down through generations...

Doug (shakes his head):
We don't have any names like that in my family...

Eleanor:
Then what about a name that reflects the nationality of his mother? A nice Ukranian name?

Doug:
Hey, yeah! What was that Uncle you have that you always talked so much about?

Carol (questions):
Uncle Myko?

Doug (brightly):
Yeah! What about we name the baby after him?

Mark (can't resist teasing):
Now there's an idea for you...you can name him 'Stephen Myko'...

Carol (shakes her head):
Oh, no! Not on your life!

Doug (brightens):
Ah ha! Something we DO agree on...names we DON'T want! Now, if we can just find one we agree that we DO want, we'll be in good shape!

Carter (chuckles):
The baby is the one that will be in good shape when you agree on a name.

Doug (shrugs):
He'll hate it anyway. I never met anybody yet that ever liked their name.

Carter (laughing):
That's true! Gemma says they should just call a kid 'Hey You' until it gets big enough to pick it's own name...

Doug (brightly):
Hey...

Carol (shakes her head):
Forget it! We are naming this child before it is born...

The crew chuckles as they break out material to begin working for the day.

Fade into opening credits of the Show.

Act One

Scene opens at C.A.R.E. Center with Doug putting Carol's scarf around her neck and pulling her coat around her to grip it in the front.

Carol (pulls scarf out of his hands):
You do not have to dress me to go outdoors like you do Tatiana. I am perfectly capable of getting myself home.

Doug:
Why are you getting mad at me? I'm not the doctor who told you that you can only work half days now...Stephanie did that.

Carol:
Well, it's not necessary, and you know it!

Doug (shakes his head):
I don't know any such thing...

Carol (rolls her eyes):
You're a Pediatrician, for crying out loud...

Doug (grins at her, tucks her scarf into her jacket):
That means I take care of them after they get here, Sweetheart. Before they get here is not my area of expertise...
(Carol sighs, dejected)
Go home...put your feet up...read your trashy romance novels and relax. Scott will be home from school in about an hour and he's going to do the laundry for you so I can fold it and put it all away when I get home.

Carol (dejected):
I'm a useless cow now...just taking up space.

Doug (smiles):
You are not a cow...

Carol:
Yes, I am. I look like a beached whale. I waddle like a duck. If I get on my back, I'm like a damn turtle trying to get up...

Doug (kisses her forehead):
Don't say 'damn'...the baby can hear you.

Carol (pouts):
I was trying to get off the sofa yesterday and felt like that little boy, 'Randy' stuck in the snow in a snowsuit he couldn't put his arms down in 'The Christmas Story' movie we watched with the kids...

Carter (laughing):
Is that the one where the older brother wants a Red Ryder BB gun?

Doug (nods):
That's the one...

Carter:
Hilarious movie...I watched it too...

Doug (grins):
It's fun to watch it with kids, too...
(tucks Carol's coat one last time)
Helen's outside to pick you up...

Carol (frowns):
I can't even drive now...I'm worse than a useless cow...

Doug (assures her as he walks her to the door):
I'll see you at home tonight.
(stops in the doorway with her and kisses her sweetly)
I love you.
(Carol frowns and looks at her feet. He lifts her chin with his fingers)
Hey...it's OK.

Carol (quietly):
I know...I just feel so useless.

Doug (smiles...shakes his head):
You're not useless...we all need you very much.
(Carol frowns...we hear a car horn honk and both look to see Helen waiting in the parking lot)
You better go...your Mom is waiting for you.

Carol (starts out the door):
OK...I'll see you later at home.
(see gets about three steps away from the door and turns back to see Doug standing and watching her and steps back to him quickly)
I love you, too.

She kisses him quickly and touches his face with her fingers, smiling weakly at him as she steps away. He stays in the doorway watching and she waves to him from the car. He waves to Helen who gives him an acknowledging nod, and he watches as the car pulls away. Then, he retreats back into the clinic.

Mark (quietly):
I see the feeling of uselessness is starting to sink in with her now...
(Doug nods, Mark whistles lowly)
That has to make your life more interesting...

Doug (sighs):
She's not useless, you know? There's lots of things she can do and plenty of things she does do even off her feet, but, she just feels useless. And that bothers me.

Mark:
Ah, she'll be OK. I know Carol. She doesn't let things get her down much.

Doug (thinking):
No, but, when she does let something get to her, she tends to go overboard...

Mark (shoots him a look):
What's a crack like that supposed to mean?
(Doug shrugs and shakes his head)
You mean the pills she took?

Doug (nonchalantly):
You gotta admit, Mark, that was a pretty drastic measure to take.

Mark:
Yeah, and it was a long time ago. Carol is a lot stronger than that now...
(slaps Doug on the back playfully)
...she has a little better anchor now.

Doug (shakes his head):
I'm no anchor, Mark...if I'm anything to her right now, I'm dead weight...just pulling her down.

Mark (taken aback):
Why would you say that?

Doug (quietly, doesn't look at Mark):
The nightmares are starting back up again.

Mark (gives him a scolding look):
Well, you know what to do about that.

Doug (nods):
I know...talk to Nina...but finding time isn't as easy as it used to be now...Carol needs me at home too much now for me to be gone any more than I absolutely have to be.

Mark:
She also needs you to be there for her in sound mind and body...maybe you can just talk to her about your Dad?

Doug (sighs):
Right now, Mark, I don't think I can talk to anybody about my Dad...I can't even talk to me about my Dad...
(Mark gives him a sad look)

Mark:
Well, you have some added advantages to helping you with Carol right now. You have two children...and two mothers...surely you're getting help from them?

Doug (nods):
Helen and my Mom have been great...they are both there whenever I need them. Tatchie...she does what she can and she can do quite a bit. Scott is the one I'm having trouble with. For some reason, he just can't seem to buckle down and BE there when I need him to be.

Mark (shrugs):
I guess he's at an age where he feels like his life is important, too, and maybe he's missing things he wants to do by being with the family?

Doug (nods):
I guess. I think we need to talk about it...I just haven't found time yet...

Mark:
Well, Scott's a good kid, basically...he'll come around, I'm sure...

Mark pats Doug on the back and steps away to assist a patient. Show Doug looking over a file, but, thinking. He shakes it off and takes the file with him to go back to work.

Cut to show time lapse...it is now afternoon and the Clinic is very busy. Show the switchboard lit up like a Christmas tree and Eleanor fielding everything as well as she can.

Eleanor (answering phone):
County C.A.R.E. Center, how can I help you?
(we will only hear her one side of the conversation)
Yes, Carol! He's here...

Cut to show Doug looking up quickly from across the room with a patient. His face shows concern and he touches the shoulder of his patient gently.

Doug (nods):
Excuse me, just a moment, please?

Doug steps over to the front desk and takes the phone from Eleanor quickly. Again, we hear only his one side of the conversation.

Doug (into receiver):
Carol? What's wrong? What do you mean 'where did I leave the fabric softener' what are you doing the laundry for? No, you're supposed to be resting! Scott is supposed to do that. What do you mean he isn't home yet?
(looks at clock on the wall)
He should have been home a half hour ago. Well, have you heard from him? What about Tatchie? Isn't she home yet? Scott was supposed to walk her home? No, it's OK. Sister Mary Grace won't let her leave without someone to pick her up. It's OK, Carol, I'll go down to the school and get her and bring her home. Get off your feet! I'll be home within a half hour!
(hangs up phone and turns to Mark)
Mark! I've got a family emergency, can you take over for me?

Mark (nods):
Sure, Doug...

Before Mark can even finish his sentence, Doug is across the room, grabbing his jacket, and on his way out the door.

Cut to show Doug pulling the car to the curb of a school and racing up the walk to the doors. Cut to interior of the school and show him in the hallway, looking at names on the doors until he finds the door he needs. He opens the door and peers into the room. He sees Sister Mary Grace sitting at her desk grading papers and Tatiana sitting at a desk writing in an open workbook. He smiles softly as he steps casually into the room.

Doug (quietly):
Hi, Punkin...

Tatiana (looks up, smiles wide):
Papa!

She jumps up from her seat and rushes to him, hugging him quickly. He reaches down and hugs her, patting her back gently as he makes his way to the teacher's desk.

Doug (apologetically):
I'm really sorry about this...there must have been some mix-up about how Tatchie was supposed to get home.

Sister (smiles at him):
That's quite all right, Dr. Ross. I had plenty of work to do. It wasn't a problem for me.
Doug (offers her a phone number):
If this situation ever occurs again, and I'm hoping it won't, please call me at work...can you do that?
Sister (nods, places number in a book on her desk):
Yes, absolutely.
Doug (to Tatiana):
OK, Punkin...you ready to go home?
Tatiana (slaps her book shut):
Yep!
Doug (reaches for her hand):
Then, let's go...your Mama will be happy to see you.
Sister Mary Grace begins gathering up her own things to leave while Doug helps Tatiana on with her jacket. He pulls the jacket around her and works her scarf for her almost the same way he did to Carol at the Clinic, only Tatiana lets him do it while she bounces and shuffles her feet while she waits. She takes her gloves out of her pockets and pulls her hands into them and Doug pulls a cap over her head to cover her ears. She takes her backpack and puts her arms through it and she and Doug start out of the room together.

Tatiana (from the doorway):
Good Bye, Sister! I'll see you tomorrow.

Sister:
Good Bye, Tatiana...Dr. Ross...

Doug (nods to her):
Thank you, Sister...again.

Sister (nods):
Anytime, Dr. Ross. I understand you are a busy man and you and your wife have your hands full right now. I was glad to help.

Once they are out in the hallway, Doug, turns to Tatiana as they walk along.

Doug:
What happened to your brother? He was supposed to walk you home!
(Tatiana shrugs)
I guess we better try and find him, huh?

Tatiana (helpfully):
Bet he's at the arcade...he loves it there!
(pause)
You aren't mad at me, are you, Papa?

Doug (assures her):
Mad at you? No! Why would I be mad at you? You did the right thing! Sister won't let you leave without someone with you and I like that. That's a good thing. You did the right thing. I knew where to find you. Your brother is the one who's in trouble...

Tatiana (fearfully):
Uh oh..

Doug (nods...chuckles at her):
Yeah...'uh oh' is right...I'll take you home first...then I'll go find your brother.

He walks her to the car and put her in, buckling her seat belt and closing her in. Then, he gets in and drives them away. Focus on Doug's face. He is angry and his eyes flash this as he drives. Go deep into him mind to hear the words running around in his head...

Man's Voice:
Dougie? Where are you, Boy? You better come out here to me! Don't make me come looking for you...it'll be that much worse if you do...

Doug closes his eyes briefly against the memory...in his mind he hears (but does not see) several slaps or blows being delivered but we do not see to whom the blows are directed.

Cut to show Doug delivering Tatiana into the hallway of the house and Carol meeting them at the door.

Carol:
Where's Scott?

Doug (shakes his head):
I'm not sure...I'm going to start at the arcade...
(steps back out the door quickly)
...I'll be back...

Carol (calls after him):
Try to hold onto your temper, Doug...

Doug gives her a quick wave as he rips open the door of the car and climbs back in. Carol sighs as she watches him go. Then, she steps back into the house and closes the door.

Fade Act One to Black.

Act Two

Scene opens in a game arcade somewhere in a shopping mall. Show several young boys crowded around a video game. One boy is at the controls and all the others are standing close watching and cheering him on. Cut to show Doug coming into the arcade and looking around. He spots his son's jacket and backpack and makes his way over to the group of boys.

Doug (places a hand on Scott's shoulder):
Does the word 'grounded' mean anything to you?

Treavor:
Uh oh...busted!

Treavor looks over Scott's shoulder and sees Doug, then he gives Scott a cringed look. Scott turns sheepishly to face Doug himself.

Scott:
Dad! I can explain...

Doug (nods, motions over his shoulder with his thumb):
I bet you can. Move it, Mister. You can explain it all to me at home.

Scott reluctantly to group):
I'll see you guys later...

Treavor (sad face):
Good luck, Scott.

Doug reaches out and takes Scott by the arm, leading him with him quickly out of the arcade. Cut to show both of them getting into the car and slamming the door, sitting together before the car starts moving.

Doug (demanding):
What did you think you were doing?
(Scott doesn't answer, just sits and stares at the dashboard)
Didn't I ask you to go home and help your Mother, today?

Scott (snaps at him):
Asked me? You never ASK me. You TOLD me..

Doug (points a finger at him):
Don't get smart with me, Mister! We talked about all this already! Carol needs some extra help right now...we all agreed to do our part, remember?
(Scott frowns)

Doug (continues):
And suppose I was to ask you where your sister is...
(Scott shoots a quick and surprised look at him)
...you wouldn't know, would you? Because you didn't wait for her after school and walk her home like you were supposed to either, did you?

Scott (quietly):
She's OK, isn't she? She got home?

Doug (coldly):
Do you care?

Scott (nods):
Yes...

Doug:
If you care so much, why didn't you take the time to make sure she got home your own self?

Scott (exasperated):
OK, so, I screwed up already! I'm sorry!

Doug (starts engine):
Not yet...but you will be before it's all over!

Doug pulls the car away. Scott looks out the window with an 'oooo boy' look on his face as he stares out the window.

Cut to show the two of them coming into the house together and Carol meeting them at the door.

Doug (quickly, to Carol):
I'll handle this...

Carol (coaxing):
Let me talk to him, Doug...

Doug (shakes his head):
No, we did it your way already before...that doesn't work... now we're gonna do it MY way...
(pushes Scott forward slightly towards another room)
We need to talk...

Carol (coaxing again):
Doug, you're too angry to deal with this right now...

Doug (snaps at her):
Carol! Let me handle this!

Carol is alarmed by his anger, and she backs off. She nods her head quietly and steps back to let him take Scott off alone with him.

Carol (aloud to nobody):
Just please promise me you won't hit him...

Carol turns around and sees Tatiana standing and watching her with wide, fearful eyes. She smiles weakly at her and motions the little girl to come with her while they wait for the outcome.

Cut to Doug and Scott in a standoff on another room, both keeping a careful distance from each other but facing each other nonetheless.

Doug:
What's going on with you, Scott? I can't count on you for anything but trouble anymore.
(Scott doesn't answer...just gives Doug a blank stare)
I thought we were Buds, you know? I thought we could talk about things and work things out...I thought we could understand each other. But I can't understand this attitude you're throwing out all the sudden. You want to tell me what this is all about?
(Scott still doesn't answer...just stares at him)
Are you having trouble in school?

Scott (shakes his head):
No.

Doug:
Are you on drugs?

Scott (scoffs):
You know better than that...

Doug:
Ok, let me tell you what I DO know, OK? I know that everything started to change in this house when you got to be friends with Treavor. I know your attitude changed and the way you dress started to change...the kind of music you listen to changed...everything changed. And I can accept a lot of that as growing pains. And I can live with most of it. Now, all along, I've said I didn't think Treavor was all that bad, but if he's got you breaking rules, maybe I was wrong.

Scott (protesting):
I didn't break any rules...

Doug (protesting back):
You were supposed to come home and help Carol with the laundry! You know she can't be lifting that laundry basket and carrying those hampers up and down steps!

Scott (defensively):
Well, why do I have to do that? Why can't Gramma do that?

Doug (growing angry):
Why should she have to? Why should I ask your grandmother to do something when I've got a perfectly good eleven year old boy who is more than capable of lending a hand to help out around here!

Scott:
So, I just give up my life because you and Carol want to have a baby?

Doug (outraged):
I'm not asking you to give up your life! Just a little bit of your time!

Scott (protesting):
ALL of my time! I never get to do anything anymore! I always have to do the laundry and the vacuuming and take care of Tatchie...when do I get to do what I want to do?

Doug:
That's not fair, Scott...and you know it. You go to arcade every Saturday. I make sure of it. And as soon as I get home from the clinic, your duties are up around here...

Scott (scoffs):
Yeah, to do homework and go to bed.

Doug:
We're all making sacrifices...

Scott (scoffs):
Oh, yeah, right, Dad! What sacrifices is Tatiana making?

Doug (defensively):
She does her share...she does what she's capable of...and she doesn't WHINE about it...

Scott (getting sarcastic now):
Well, I guess that makes her just about perfect then, doesn't it? But, then, why not! She belongs to Carol!

Doug (cuts him off):
Oh, don't try to play that game with me...don't try to make me think YOU think Carol plays favorites with you kids. You know that's not true.

Scott (nods sarcastically):
I guess you're right about that, Dad...seeing that neither one of us belong to her anyway. But, just wait until the new one gets here...and it DOES belong to her...then we'll see...

Doug (grabs him by the arm roughly):
OK, Mister, you are out of line right there...I have had just about all of this attitude out of you that I'm going to listen to...

Scott (starts to push past Doug and head for the door):
Oh, yeah, right, like you pay enough attention around here to notice anything anyway...

Doug reaches out and grabs Scott roughly by the arm, jerking him back to face him. In a split second, he raises his hand above his head to strike his son. When he looks down, the eyes that he sees gazing back at him at not Scott's but his own at Scott's age. This realization shakes him and he immediately lets go of Scott's arm, turns sharply, and plunges his fist to the wall behind him while Scott watches fearfully. Doug cups his hand carefully against him and bites his lip.

Doug (quietly):
Go to your room. You're grounded until further notice.

Scott (nervous voice):
Are you OK?

Doug (nods):
I'm fine...go to your room.

Scott (reaches for Doug's hand, but, Doug pulls it away):
But, Dad...

Doug (angrily):
Go to your room, Scott...NOW!

Scott pushes past him and disappears out the door. As soon as Scott is out of the room, Doug shakes his hand gingerly with a painful expression on his face.

Carol (comes into the room quietly):
You didn't hit him, did you?

Doug (shakes his head):
No...
(lifts his hand to her)
...I hit the wall instead.

Carol (shocked look as she stares wide-eyed at his hand):
Oh, My, God! Did you break it?

Doug (works a finger carefully):
Yeah, I'm pretty sure I did.
(sighs)
I'll just run back to the clinic while Mark is still there and get him to fix it for me.
(kisses her forehead)
I'll be back...

Carol (protests as he starts out of the room):
What will you do about dinner?

Doug (from the doorway):
I'm not hungry right now...

Carol sighs as Doug leaves, slamming the door behind him. Just as he closes the door, we hear Tatiana sneeze behind her. She rolls her eyes and takes her daughter by the hand, leading her away and up the steps.

Cut to C.A.R.E. Center and focus on Doug slowly extending his hand for Mark to see.

Mark (quietly):
You want to talk about it?

Doug (annoyed):
No, I don't want to talk about it...just fix it so I can go back home.

Mark (nods):
OK...it's broken right here...
(shows him a mark)
...just needs a soft cast...you'll still be able to work...

Doug (nods):
Good...that's good...

Mark (coaxing):
I think you should talk about it...

Doug (snaps):
What do you want me to say, Mark?

Mark (snaps back):
You wanted to hit your son, Doug! I'd think you'd have plenty to say about that!

Doug (snaps again):
Yeah, well, I didn't hit him, did I? And I'm the one that ended up getting hurt!

Mark (pulls out cast colors):
What color do you?

Doug (taps a color):
Black...like my mood right now.
(scoffs)
I would have been fine except that I hit the door facing...that's why I broke it...
(sighs)
I guess I would have knocked Scott through the wall if I'd connected with him...
(pinches the bridge of his nose with the thumb and forefinger of his good hand)
God, Mark...what's happening to me?

Mark (smiles):
Nothing that every parent doesn't go through. Kids can try your patience sometimes, Doug...you just have to have control of the situation.
(chuckles)
Believe it or not, this DOES exhibit control.
(Doug chuckles with him)
All done...
(puts the last piece in place)
Want some painkillers?

Doug (sighs):
Yeah, you better give me a couple of them, at least.

Mark (writing on a script pad):
I'll give you 8...get them over at County on your way home...if you need more than that, we'll have to talk about it. And you probably should see someone in Ortho at County, too...

Doug (nods):
Yeah, OK...
(sighs)
Thanks, Mark. I guess now I have to go home and find something to say to my son...

Mark (matter-of-factly):
You need to talk to him, Doug...you need to explain to him what happened...and WHY it happened...

Doug (sighs, nods his head):
I guess you're right...not gonna be easy...

Mark:
Just be honest with him, Doug...he may be young, but, he's still a person...and he doesn't know your past, either.

Doug (nods, stands up to leave):
Thanks, Mark...I don't know what I'd do without you sometimes...

Mark (sarcastic grin):
I don't know either...be careful driving home.

Doug sighs and trudges his way out of the Clinic. Mark stands and watches him go with a chuckle and a shake of his head.

Fade Act Two to Black.

Act Three

Scene opens with Doug coming into house and hanging up his jacket on hall tree by the door. He starts through the house and sees Carol lounging on the sofa, waiting for him.

Carol (calls to him):
Hey...in here.

Doug goes in and collapse onto the sofa beside her, he sighs heavily and reaches his hand for her to see his cast.

Carol (rolls her eyes):
Poor baby. Bad break?

Doug (shakes his head):
Nah, not really. Just a soft cast. I'll still be able to work. It's broken right here...
(shows her a mark)
...it's only because I hit the door facing instead of the wall. Mark gave me a script...
(shakes the pill bottle at her)
...I have an appointment with Ortho tomorrow.
(he sighs and drops his head over to her shoulder)

Carol (strokes his hair lightly):
Poor baby...you've had a rough day. Ready for some more bad news?
(Doug gives her a woebegone look with his eyes)
I put Tatchie to bed a while ago sneezing. I think you better take a look at her.

Doug (sighs deeply):
Oh, great...is she running a fever?

Carol (nods):
Little one...I think it's just a cold but I'd feel better if you took a look at her.

Doug (pulls himself into a sitting position):
Yeah, I don't think you need to be around her if she's coming down with something...

Carol (rolls her eyes):
Oh, Doug, be serious...I've got so many vitamins in me I couldn't catch a germ with a ball mitt right now! I'd just feel better if you took a look at her.

Doug (kisses her forehead):
I will take a look at her...

Carol (as he starts out of the room):
And then you'll talk to Scott?

Doug (nods from the doorway):
And then I'll talk to Scott...

He waves his hand to her over his shoulder and goes up the steps slowly. Cut to show Carol watching him with a perplexed look on her face.

Cut to show Doug going into Tatiana's bedroom. The little girl is sitting up in her bed, coloring in a color book. She is in her nightgown and has her doll and Scrubs the dog in bed with her, with a glass of orange juice on the table beside her. Doug comes into her room and she smiles at him the instant she sees him.

Doug (smiles at her):
Hi, Punkin...how you feeling?

Tatiana (shrugs):
OK!

Doug (sits on the bed with her):
Mama says you were sneezing earlier...
(feels the back of her neck with his hand)
You're a little warm...are you sure you feel OK?

Tatiana (rubs her throat):
Scratches a little...

Doug:
Can I see?
(she nods...Doug takes out his penlight flashlight and looks in her throat)
Well, you're a little red.
(feels her throat with his hands)
Does that hurt?

Tatiana (shrugs):
A little.

Doug (smiles at her):
OK...you just stay in bed and take it easy...

Tatiana (smiles):
Like Mama?

Doug (laughs):
Yeah, kind of like Mama. Let's keep you home from school tomorrow and doctor you up good while you're home and see if we can't get you feeling better, OK?

Tatiana (smiles and nods):
OK, Papa.

He tucks the covers around her and kisses her head quickly, leaving her there to go back to Carol.

Carol:
Is she OK?

Doug (nods):
I think so...I think it's just a cold. She's got a little scratchy throat. I think we better just keep her home from school tomorrow and keep an eye on her.

Carol (nervously):
You don't think...?

Doug (cuts her off with a smile):
No...
(kisses her hand)
...I don't. Don't worry. She looks pretty healthy.

Carol:
Did you talk to Scotty yet?

Doug (sighs):
No...mostly because I don't know what I'm going to say to him.

Carol:
You need to just talk to him, Doug...that's all.

Doug (nods robotically):
Yeah...right...OK...

Doug sighs and pulls himself up to go back up the steps one more time. Cut to show him coming to the top of the stairs to Scott's attic room and knocking on the rafters.

Scott (from out of sight):
Come in.

Doug goes on into the room to find Scott working on homework at his desk. He goes over and sits on the bed close to where he is working.

Doug (quietly):
Hey.

Scott (stops working and turns to Doug):
Hey...
(notices cast on his hand)
Oh, my gosh! Did I do that?

Doug (turns his hand, chuckles):
No, Pal...I did that...you had nothing to do with it.

Scott (shrugs):
Maybe you would've felt better if you'd just belted me...

Doug (shakes his head):
No, that's not the answer...and surely not the road I want to take. You see, my Dad used to smack the hell out of me when I was a kid...so I remember all too well what that hand coming around and connecting would have felt like to you.
(quiet voice)
It hurts for a long time after the physical sting wears off. I don't want to hit you, Scott...but we have to do something about some of the things that are going on around here right now. I have to be able to count on you. I really need your help right now.
(Scott doesn't interrupt him, just listens to hear him out)
We need to talk about Treavor...

Scott (cuts him off):
This isn't Treavor's fault...don't go blaming him...

Doug:
Well, I have to blame somebody...and none of this started before you met him. Don't get me wrong, Scott, I think Treavor is probably an OK kid at heart...he just doesn't have any adult supervision. And I can't let that be my responsibility. Not right now. I've got enough responsibility right now. I can only handle the things I can control right now. And you are one of those things I can control. Now, when your Mom and Dennis were killed, you were given the option of living with me and Carol or living with your Aunt Trish and your sisters...you remember we all sat down and talked about all this, remember?

Scott (nods):
Yes, sir.

Doug:
And what did you say tell me?

Scott (quietly):
I said I wanted to live with you.

Doug (nods):
Do you STILL want to live with me and Carol? Are you still happy with that arrangement?
(Scott nods shortly)
Well, then, ACT like it, OK? Maybe some of it is my fault...maybe I haven't explained everything very well. Carol is having a mild bout with Toxemia Pregnancy...do you know what that is?
(Scott shakes his head)
That's a condition that can cause a lot of problems for her and for the baby if she doesn't so just exactly what her doctor tells her to do. We have to be very careful right now.

Scott (carefully):
Could she die?

Doug:
If it's not treated properly, yes...there have been cases where the mother doesn't live. Sometimes the baby is born too early and it doesn't live. There are all kinds of complications that can come from this if it's not taken care of. That's why we have to be so careful.

Scott (drops his head shamefully):
You don't have to explain this stuff to me, Dad. I've been acting like a real jerk lately...I'm sorry.

Doug:
Is something going on that you need to tell me about? Is something bothering you?

Scott (shrugs):
It's crazy.

Doug:
Nothing that bothers you is crazy...tell me about it...maybe I can help.

Scott:
Well, I was just thinking that when the baby is born, he's going to belong to you and Carol together and he's going to be different than Tatchie and me. I don't think Tatchie will notice much because she's little, but, well...I guess I was just thinking that once you have this son, you won't need me anymore.

Doug (devastated look):
Oh, Scotty...you don't really think that, do you?
(Scott gives him a sheepish look)
How could you think that? You're my Pal...my Bud! You're the guy that watches Michael Jordan with me and I'm hoping we can take in a lot of Cubs games this summer together! We work on the motorcycle together and you're gonna start racing this summer! The baby isn't going to be able to do that until long after you're in college!
(Reaches out and strokes his son's hair softly)
I missed so much of your life, Scotty...your first words...your first step...your first day of school...your first home run...I don't want to miss a second of what's yet to come.
(hugs him quickly)

Scott (softly):
I'm really sorry I've been such a jerk, Dad. I'll really try and do better from now on.

Doug (nods):
I hope so...

Scott (rolls his eyes):
I bet you're gonna give me something to help me remember, too...

Doug (grins at him):
I bet I am, too! You're grounded for two weeks...you come straight home from school and I will have PLENTY for you to do around here. (Scott nods with a scoff)
And I want you to be sure your Sister gets home from school everyday...except tomorrow because I'm keeping her home...

Scott (alarmed):
She's OK isn't she?

Doug (nods):
Just got a little cold...she's fine...I just think I should keep her home tomorrow and see how she feels then. Anyway,
(smacks Scott's leg playfully)
...see that she gets home when she's at school...no friends over here...and no hanging out in the arcade.

Scott (dejected sigh):
Yes, sir.

Doug (knife smile):
And no computer games or video games at home, either.

Scott (protesting):
Ah, DAD!

Doug (finishes it off):
One hour of TV a night...in bed by nine o'clock...

Scott (VERY dejected):
Oh, MAN...

Doug (pats his back as he stands up to leave):
We're all clear on your punishment?

Scott (nods slowly):
Yes, sir.

Doug (looks at his watch):
Good...I guess you better go to bed now.

Scott (sighs):
Yes, sir.

Doug gives him a gentle pat on the back and goes off and leaves him there, shaking his head as he starts down the steps away from him.

Cut to show Carol coming into the Master bedroom but stopping short at the sound of Doug on the phone so she can listen to his one side of the conversation.

Doug (on phone):
Mark? It's Doug...I'm not going to be coming in tomorrow. No, my hand is fine, I just think I need to be here more than I need to be at work tomorrow. Because Carol has a doctor appointment in the morning and I've got a sick kid...Tatchie....no, it's just a cold, she's OK...you and Carter will just have to go it without me tomorrow? Carter's gone tomorrow? Well, call David Morganstern, then! He's the one who told me my top priority is supposed to be to my family, let him figure it out! I'm sure you'll do something, Mark. Yeah, thanks...good bye.

Doug hangs up the phone just as Carol comes into the room. He sighs and collapses onto the bed and she sits down beside him.

Carol (quietly):
Did you get things worked out with Scott?

Doug (nods, hand over his head):
Yes...he is grounded...he knows the ropes...he’ll be fine.

Carol:
Well, I don't think you need to miss work just because Tatchie has a cold...
(Doug gives her a look...she shrugs)
...I heard you on the phone with Mark...

Doug:
The clinic can survive without me for one day, Carol...

Carol:
I just don't want it to be because of me...

Doug (rolls his eyes):
It's not because of you...it's because of Tatchie...

Carol (protesting):
You think I can't take care of our children...that's why you're staying home to do it...

Doug (gets up off the bed and walks away):
I am NOT going to have this conversation with you right now...

He goes over to the bathroom, goes in, and slams the door. Cut to show Carol sitting on the bed with an exasperated look on her face, drop her face into her hands, and sigh.

Fade Act Three to Black.

Act Four

Scene opens the next morning at the Ross/Hathaway home. Doug goes to the bottom of the steps, pulling into his jacket, and calls up the steps to his son.

Doug (calling):
Scotty! Get a move on, Buddy! I gotta get you to school!

Scott (calls back off camera):
Be right there, Dad!

Doug (turns to Carol, sitting on the sofa in the living room):
Helen coming back to take you to your appointment?

Carol (grunts):
Yeah.

Doug (grins at her):
Don't sound so enthusiastic about it.

Carol (sighs):
I'm just so tired of being an invalid...

Doug (rolls his eyes):
You're not an invalid, Honey...you just have to take it easy.

Carol:
Well, you try it all day every day for a while and see how fast it gets old...

Doug (leans down and kisses the top of her head):
I'm sure it does, Sweetheart...

Carol (grumps):
Don't patronize me right now, Doug...it's not a good idea.

Doug (sees Scott coming down the steps):
I'll be back to stay with Tatchie before Helen gets here, I promise...

Carol (sighs):
OK.

Scott (waves to her from the doorway):
Bye, Mom!

Carol (smiles, finally):
Bye, Sweetie! Have a good day!
Cut to show Doug and Scott driving to school. This gives them some quiet one to one time to talk to each other.

Scott (very quietly):
Dad, can I ask you about something we talked about yesterday?

Doug (nods, keeps his eye on driving):
Sure, Son...you can always ask me anything. Don't every be afraid...

Scott:
Well, you said Granpa used to smack you around when you were a kid...did he really do that? Or did you just tell me that to make a point?

Doug (sad eyes, frowns):
No, he really did that. I didn't make that up.

Scott:
Well, why? Why did he hit you?

Doug (shrugs):
Mostly, he was drunk. Other times, he just couldn't control his anger. It wasn't until I was grown and understood the patterns of abuse enough to realize the reason my Dad hit me was because his Dad probably hit him when he was a kid and he didn't know how to break the cycle.

Scott:
How did you break the cycle?

Doug (sincerely):
Well, I've talked to Nina Pomerantz about it a lot. And I just knew in my heart that I didn't want to be that kind of a father. I remember too much what it felt like to be hit. I didn't want to pass that on to my kids.

Scott:
Is it hard for you? To control?

Doug (chuckles...lifts his casted hand to him):
Oh, I think I have a pretty good reminder hanging around for a while...
(Scott laughs)
Truthfully, Scotty, yes. Control is hard. It's harder than just letting go with your feelings sometimes.

Scott (gives him a sincere look):
You must really love us to work so hard to control.

Doug (glances at him, smiles):
I do love you...I love all of you...did you think I didn't?

Scott (smiles):
No, I knew you did. But, when you put your fist through the wall yesterday, I REALLY knew it. I think you're pretty cool.

Doug (nods):
Well, thanks...
(pulls car to a stop)
...And I think you better hustle! See you this evening, Sport...straight home, remember?

Scott (rolls his eyes):
I got it, Dad...see you later!

Scott gets out and slams the car door, waving to Doug as he pulls away.

Cut to show time lapse. Show Carol and Helen sitting together in Stephanie Russell's OB-GYN office, waiting for her appointment. While they are there, they have time to talk together.

Helen:
You're awfully quiet this morning.

Carol (quietly):
Doug and I had a fight.
(sighs)
I really hate it when I let that happen.

Helen (knowing look):
What were you fighting about?

Carol (shrugs):
Oh, the usual...I feel useless...that kind of thing.

Helen (rolls her eyes):
You are not useless...and you know it.

Carol (scoffs):
Oh, Mama, I can't do anything right now. Everytime I do anything, my blood pressure shoots up and I have to get off my feet again. I can't work at the clinic. I can't work at home. What good am I? I can't even take care of my own kids right now. If I didn't have Doug to help me, I'd really be in trouble...

Helen:
Well, then, be thankful you have him and that he's there. Lord knows the dedication he's displayed lately is more than I would have ever given him credit for in the past.

Carol (sighs):
I don't think Doug's happy, Mama. I think he feels trapped.

Helen (laughs):
Trapped?

Carol:
Yeah...I feel like he thinks he's trapped in a life he didn't want and one he can't get out of.

Helen:
Why would you think he feels trapped?

Carol:
Well, when Doug and I got back together, and he asked me to marry him, I think he thought it was just going to be the two of us...that we were just start out as a couple and build our family when we were ready. Within six months after we were married, we suddenly had two children living with us! We were a group before we ever even had time to be a couple. Sometimes I wonder if it was all too much too soon for him to have to try and cope with.

Helen:
Are we talking about Doug? Or you?
(Carol gives her a quick look)
Are you happy with Doug? And the children? And the coming baby?

Carol:
Of course I'm happy! All I've wanted for a long time was to find a nice guy who makes me happy and have a family with him.

Helen:
And, you're happy with Doug?

Carol (looks at her):
I love Doug...very much...

Helen:
And do you doubt that he loves you?

Carol:
That wasn't what I said, Mama...I said I thought it might have been too much too soon...

Helen:
You also said he couldn't get out of this life...and he surely could if he wanted to...all he has to do is walk away. Lord knows it wouldn't be the first time he ever walked out on you in your life...

Carol (snaps at her):
He isn't like that anymore, Mama! Doug loves his family! He would never walk out on us! He needs us just as much as we need him...
Carol stops with the realization that she is answering her own question and she turns to the satisfied smile a her mother with a sheepish look.

Carol (quietly):
I guess I've been acting pretty silly lately, huh?

Helen (arm around her shoulders):
Not silly, Dear...just like a woman seven months pregnant...
(both laugh)

Cut to show time lapse. Scene is Tatiana's bedroom now. Tatiana is in bed, with her doll, and Scrubs, and her juice, and Doug is laying on the bed with her playing a CANDY LAND game with her.

Tatiana (suddenly):
Papa, can I ask you a question?

Doug (rolls dice):
As me anything, Punkin.

Tatiana:
Well, I know that babies come from Mama's and Papa's that love each other lots and lots...that's right, isn't it?

Doug (nods slowly):
Yeah, that's right.

Tatiana:
And it takes both of you to make a baby, is that right?

Doug (nods again):
Yeah, that's right, too.

Tatiana:
OK, so, I know what Mama does for the baby, but what do you do?

Doug (eyes dancing):
Well, I did the nursery and everything...remember? Dr. Mark helped...

Tatiana (nods):
Oh yeah...
(thinking)
Papa?

Doug (moves game piece):
Ummmm?

Tatiana:
How did you get the baby inside Mama's belly?

Doug (falters briefly):
Well, uh, I didn't really put the baby there...God did.

Tatiana (confused):
God did?

Doug (nods):
Well, sure! Mommies and Daddies can't make a baby all by themselves...they have to have a little help from God.

Tatiana (nodding):
So, if God put the baby in Mama's belly, what does she need you for?

Doug (winks at her):
To help her take it out!

Tatiana (giggles):
And you don't take it out until it's done, right?

Doug (grins):
Something like that, yeah.

The little girl seems satisfied with his answer and Doug is relieved that there are no more questions from her as they continue to play their game.

Cut to show Carol coming into Tatiana's room to them with a sad a dejected look on her face.

Doug (knowing look):
Bad news?

Carol (sighs):
I am now, officially, completely, and totally, off work until after the baby is born.
(she smiles at Tatiana)
How you feeling, Baby?

Tatiana (smiles):
I feel better, Mama!

Doug (nods):
She's fine, really...absolutely nothing to worry about. So, Stephanie is taking you off completely, huh?

Carol (nods, strokes Tatiana's hair lightly):
Yeah, she thinks it's for the best.

Doug (smiles):
It'll be OK.
(gets up and smiles at Tatiana)
You be OK for a while by yourself, Punkin? Maybe Mama will play with both of us later, OK?

Tatiana (nods):
OK, Papa.

Tatiana takes out a color book and lays her game aside, Doug walks out of the room with Carol and into the hallway. She sighs and pouts a bit, but, he lifts her chin with his fingers and smiles at her.

Doug:
It's OK, you know...we're all here to help.

Carol (suddenly):
Doug, are you happy? I mean, are you really REALLY happy living here with me and the kids?

Doug (laughs):
Of course...why would you think I'm not?

Carol (sighs):
I don't know...just sometimes I get the feeling everything hit you so fast and it might be too much for you.

Doug (matter-of-factly):
Let's get one thing straight, OK? You and those two kids...
(pauses, reaches his hand to her belly)
...three kids...are my whole world. If it weren't for all of you, I would have no reason to exist. My whole purpose of cleaning up my life was to make myself good enough for you to have me. And if you hadn't wanted me, well, there probably wouldn't have been enough of me left to identify when they found me.

Carol (confused):
What are you saying?

Doug (very seriously):
That without you, I had no reason to keep living. If my life wasn't worthy of you in it, then I wasn't worthy of life.

Carol :
Doug, you're scaring me...are you saying that if anything happened to me now you'd kill yourself?

Doug (shakes his head):
No...because I have children now...and I would go on for my children because they need me. I wouldn't like it...and I would be lonely...but I would take care of my children. I just want you to understand how very VERY important you are to me...that not only are you the best thing in my life, but my very reason for life.

Carol (forces back tears):
I think that's the most beautiful thing any man ever said to me.

Doug (smiles at her):
Don't EVER think I'm not happy here...

Carol (nods):
It was foolish of me, I admit...but, I guess I'm doing and saying some pretty foolish things right now. I'm sorry.

Doug (shrugs):
Goes with the territory...we'll overlook you a little while longer.

He kisses her forehead, but, she takes his face and pulls his lips to hers, wrapping her arms around his neck. He wraps his arms around her waist and pulls her as close to him as her belly will allow him, growling softly. She takes him by the hand and leads him down the hall to their bedroom and takes him in.

Fade Act Four to Black.

Closing Act

Scene opens in Doug and Carol's bedroom. Carol is in bed, reading a romance novel, when Doug comes in. He sits on the edge of the bed, kicks off his shoes, tugs out of his jeans, and crawls into bed with her. He is carrying a carton of ice cream with him, and two spoons.

Carol:
What have you got?
(he hands her the carton)
Ooooo! Caramel Chocolate Crunch!

Doug:
I figured I owed it to you after you sent me to 7-11 for it the other night and I ate it when you were asleep when I got back!

Carol (sighs):
I'm sorry about that.

Doug (shrugs):
It was OK...

Carol (puts her book down, starts eating ice cream):
Kids in bed?

Doug (pulls covers around him):
Yeah! Tatchie is sound asleep...not even a sniffle tonight...and Scott is asleep, too.
(pause)
I think Tatchie can go back to school tomorrow. Will you be OK here by yourself? Or do you want me to call Helen to come over?

Carol (rolls her eyes):
I'm a big girl, Doug. If I think I need my Mama, I'll call her. I don't want a babysitter, please?

Doug (nods):
I'm just worried something will happen while I'm not home...

Carol (smiles at him):
I won't let anything happen. I promise.

Doug (smiles):
OK.
(pause)
Can we talk about a few things?

Carol (brightly):
Sure!

Doug (nervously):
Well, I'd like to have the baby Baptized. Would that be OK with you?

Carol (nods):
Yeah...sure! Absolutely! I thought we had already agreed to raise him in the Catholic Church? I mean, I know neither one of us really practices our religion much, but, both of our kids go to a Catholic school...I thought we'd just start the baby out at square one.

Doug (nods):
Well, OK, if he's going to be Baptized, then, we have a problem...I don't know anyone who would be good Godparents!

Carol (thinking):
Ummmm, yeah....he has to have Godparents at Baptism, doesn't he?

Doug (sighs):
I'd pick Mark, but, he doesn't really know much about the practice...

Carol (rolls her eyes):
No offense, Doug, but, he can't take care of his own kid most of the time...what makes you think he could take care of yours?

Doug (defensively):
That's not really fair. A lot of his problems with Rachel are just as much Jennifer's fault as they are his.

Carol (nods):
Yeah, you could have a point there....OK.

Doug:
Still, he doesn't support the practice, so, he's really not a good choice. And I honestly don't know anyone who would do it...do you?

Carol (thinking):
Yes, you do know someone! Someone who goes to our Parish, even! What about David Morganstern?

Doug (confused look):
David?

Carol:
Well, sure! Why not? He and his wife are Catholic! And they've raised their children already! And did a great job with their kids! David thinks so much of you...he recommended you to the board for this job at C.A.R.E. and everything...I think he would be an ideal choice for the job.

Doug (thinking):
You really think so?

Carol (nods, smiles):
Yeah, I really do!

Doug (nods):
I'll talk to him about it...maybe if he doesn't want to do it he can at least suggest someone who would?

Carol:
I'm sure Father Aaron can probably help us find somebody, too...there's always John Carter, too, you know. He may not be Catholic, but, he is Christian...and he's a good person...

Doug (thinking):
And he has plenty of money...
(Carol gives him a scolding look)
OK! And he's young, too, you like that better? Money is still important when you're raising kids...

Carol:
Well, we're gonna Baptize the little guy...now if we can just name him, we'll be in good shape.

Doug (quietly):
I've been thinking a lot about that...you really want to call him 'Stephen', don't you?

Carol (nods):
I would like for him to have some part of your name. And since Scott already has 'Douglas', I would like for this baby to have 'Stephen'. We don't have to call him that, but, I would like for that to be part of his name, yes.

Doug (sighs):
I don't believe I'm saying this, but, I'll make you a deal. I'll let you name him 'Stephen' if you'll let me call him 'Mark'.

Carol (smiles):
Stephen Mark?
(thinking)
Stephen Marcus?

Doug (shrugs):
Either one...as long as I can call him 'Mark'. Mark is my very best friend in the whole world. Not even when I was a kid have I ever had a friend like him. There is no one I respect more or no one I turn to more when I need help. There are times when I honestly don't know what I'd do without him. I would love to name my son after him.

Carol (smiles):
I think that's just about the nicest thing you could do for Mark

Doug (smiles):
So, this is OK with you?

Carol:
Fine with me...
(reaches her hand to her stomach)
What about you, Stephen Marcus...that OK with you?

She laughs and takes Doug's hand to place it on her stomach as the baby kicks and moves around inside.

Doug (grins):
I guess that's his way of saying it's OK with him, too, huh?

Carol (laughing):
I guess so!
(kisses him sweetly)
Oh, God, Doug...how are we ever gonna get through these next two months?

Doug (sighs):
We'll make it, Babe. It may not be easy, but, we'll do it.

He puts his arm around her and pulls her head onto his shoulder. Then, he drops his head to hers and sighs into her hair, both of them keeping a hand on her stomach and moving baby, and eating ice cream together.

Fade into closing credits of the show.

December 31, 1997