"Special Delivery"

Opening Act

Scene opens at C.A.R.E. Center. Show David Morganstern posting a note to the front of the clinic door before he enters it. As the door closes behind him, zoom in to read the note which reads "Closed for Inventory - Open For Emergencies Only". Follow David in as he opens things up, puts on some coffee, and picks up at stack of files. He makes a face and puts them back down again and goes to wait for the coffee to brew.

Cut scene to the Ross/Hathaway home. Doug is up, showered, shaved, and dressed for work at the clinic. He leans gently over Carol, who is still in bed. He smiles sweetly as he leans over her, and then he kisses her very carefully. She opens her eyes, smiles and him, and stretches her arms above her head.

Carol (sleepily):
Good morning.

Doug:
Wake up, sleepyhead. You said you would go in with me today.

Carol (confused):
I did?

Doug:
Yeah, you have an appointment with Stephanie this afternoon and she said it would be OK for you to sit in my office and enter data on the computer this morning for us before we came.

Carol (remembering):
Oh, yeah!

Doug:
I'm gonna take the kids to school while you get ready, OK? I'll pick you up when I get back.

Carol (nods):
I'll be ready.

Doug goes down the steps and finds both, Tatiana and Scott, standing at the door with their books and lunches, ready to go.

Doug (smiles at them):
Now, that's what I like to see! Good going, you two!

Scott:
We try.

Cut scene to show Doug in the car with both kids, driving them to school.

Doug:
Everybody down pat with their duties for when it's time for the baby?

Tatiana (pipes up from the back seat):
I get the overnight bag out of the closet so Mama will have all her 'personals' with her.

Scott:
And I make all the phone calls...Nana Helen, Nana Sarah, the doctor, and Dr. Greene.

Doug (nods, satisfied):
Good! Everybody knows their job!

Tatiana (looks out the window and sees a school bus go by):
Papa, why don't we ride the school bus like all the other kids?

Doug:
You'll ride the school bus when the school district puts seatbelts in them. Not before.

Tatiana:
How come?

Doug:
Because I don't think school buses are safe enough for my kids to be on them. I'd rather take the extra time and take you myself. That way I know you're in a safe vehicle.

Tatiana (thinking):
Oh! OK!

Doug pulls up at the school and the kids start out of the car.

Doug:
You guys have a good day, OK? Someone will get you at 3 o'clock.

Both children wave as Doug pulls away. Scott puts his arm around Tatiana and they start up the walk to school together, mixing in with other kids.

Cut to show Doug and Carol arriving at the clinic and coming in the staff door. Carol is VERY pregnant now and holds her back as she hands Doug her coat.

Doug (concerned):
Does your back hurt?

Carol (nods, frowns):
Yeah, a little, but it's OK.

Cut to show David Morganstern coming into the room and finding he has been joined. He lifts his coffee cup and smiles.

David:
Fresh coffee, Doug...plenty of juice for you, Carol!

Doug (looks over his shoulder as he hangs up his coat):
Thanks, David.

David (to Carol):
It's good to see you, Carol. How are you getting along?

Carol (starts waddling across the floor to the juice):
Tired. VERY Tried.

David:
I think that's a natural feeling. How are you otherwise?

Carol:
OK, I guess.

David:
Well, we really appreciate you helping up out today. If there's anything you need while you're here, you just let somebody know it, OK?

Carol:
Thanks, David. I appreciate that.

Doug:
Mark and Carter coming in?

David:
Yes! They should be here just about anytime now. I put a notice on the door that we are open to emergencies only. We should get everything done today. However, anything I have to sign I'm going to have to have by ten o'clock because I have to catch a plane to NY at noon...

Doug:
Ah, yes...the big Medical Seminar!

David (rolls his eyes):
They never change and I hate going to them, but, the Misses will enjoy shopping while I'm there, so, it'll be OK.

Doug (chuckles):
Then you can come back and tell us all the latest equipment we probably won't see for two years!

David:
That's pretty much how it works.

Doug (takes Carol by the arm):
Come on with me and I'll get you set up in my office, OK?

Carol (nods, holds her back):
Yeah, I think that sounds like a good idea.

Cut to show Carol sitting in a big, soft, chair in front of the computer on Doug's desk. She puts her feet up on a foot stool that Doug brings for her. He hands her a stack of files and sits on the desk to talk to her.

Doug:
OK, these are the ones we need entered. If you get through them, we'll probably have some more for you.

Carl (rolls her eyes):
Um, I'm sure. I need to teach Charlie who to do this so she can keep it caught up.

Doug:
The intercom is here...
(points on his desk to the intercom box)
...if you need anything, just tell us.

Carol (frowns, groans slightly, hand on her stomach):
OK. Great. I'll be fine.

Doug (concerned):
Are you OK?

Carol:
I'm fine...just a few contractions...we're used to that by now.

Doug (laughs):
Yeah, we sure are.
(kisses her forehead)
OK, I'm going to work. But, I'll check in on you from time to time.

Carol:
I'm sure...

Doug leaves the office and Carol reaches over to pick up a stack of files to start. Focus on her with her hand on her stomach, makes a face, shakes her head, and opens a file.

Fade into the opening credits of the show.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------- --

Act One

Scene opens at C.A.R.E. Center. David and Doug are working together while waiting for Mark and Carter to show up. Focus on David and Doug sitting at a table, going over files and drinking coffee.

Doug:
Hey, David, something I wanted to ask you about.

David (stops his work, gives his attention to Doug):
Sure. What's on your mind?

Doug:
Well, it's kind of a favor. And you have the right to say 'no' if you want.

David (nods):
Sounds serious.

Doug:
Not really serious. But, important. Carol and I were wondering if you and your wife would be Godparents to our baby.
(David's face registers surprise)
We want to have him baptized, and we can't do that without Godparents. I don't know two finer people who have raised better children than you. We would be so honored if you would do this favor for us.

David (touched):
How could I refuse? It's an incredible honor. I'd be delighted. Thank you.

Doug:
No, thank YOU. We really appreciate it.

David:
So, have you thought of a name for the little guy yet?

Doug:
Yeah, we're going to name him Marcus Ray and when he's baptized his saint name will be Stephen. Carol wants to name him 'Stephen', I wanted to work my Dad's name in there someplace, and we both wanted to call him 'Mark'.

David:
Does Greene know that?

Doug (thinking):
You know, I don't think he does. I need to tell him.

David:
He has even a bigger honor than I do...he's a namesake for the little guy. And quite appropriate, too.

Cut to show Carter and Mark coming in the staff door. They are carrying brown bags and set them on a nearby table to take off their coats.

Mark:
Hot, fresh, bagels!

Doug (motions):
Get a bag of those over here, Bud!
(punches intercom)
Mark and Carter just brought some bagels, Honey. Do you want one?

Carol's voice (on intercom):
Yes! Definitely!

Doug (chuckles):
Warm bagels, coming right up!

Mark and Carter join David with files as Doug prepares a couple of bagels to take to Carol.

Cut to show him taking the bagels in on a paper plate and setting them beside her. She grabs one instantly and starts gnawing on it.

Doug (laughs):
Whoa! Take it easy!

Carol (through bites of bagel):
I can't help it. I feel so hungry...

Doug (touches her stomach):
How are you doing?

Carol:
Oh, well, he's kicking around in there. A few contractions. But, I'm fine. Really.

Doug (nods):
OK. I'm going back out and work with the guys. Call me if you need me.

Carol (nods, still eating bagel):
I will.

Cut to show Doug joining Carter, David, and Mark at the work table. He starts into a bagel himself.

David:
Everything OK back there?

Doug (nods):
Yeah. She's fine. Her back just hurts and she's having bouts of Braxton-Hix, but, she's OK.

Mark:
Back hurts? When did that start?

Doug:
Just this morning. But, it's bothered her before. She's fine. She has an appointment with Stephanie this afternoon.

Carter (munching on a bagel):
You guys are about down to the wire, aren't you?

Doug:
Ten days. And counting!

Mark:
Sounds like you're getting excited.

Doug:
I can't wait to get him here...I want to see what he looks like...

Mark (chuckles):
Doug, be serious...you've delivered lots of babies...you know they all look alike!

Carter (grins):
Yeah, wiggly and squiggly and squalling and covered with...

Doug (cuts him off):
I GET the picture already!
(laughs)
Yeah...I guess that's about the jest of it!

David (speaks up, to Carter and Mark):
I told Doug earlier, but, I need to tell you two, I need anything you need me to sign before 10 o'clock. I'm catching a plane at noon to NY.

Mark (nods):
Oh, yeah. The Medical Seminar. I used to go to the local ones when we were at County.

David:
Well, this is an equipment seminar, so, I'm kind of excited to see what kind of instruments we'll be working with.

Carter (enthusiastically):
I can't wait until I'm in a position to get to go to things like that.

David:
Well, don't think it's all fun and games. Some of them are really boring.

Mark (emphasizing):
REALLY boring!

Carter:
Not for me. I'm fascinated by everything. I'd be totally intrigued no matter what it was.

Doug (laughs...to David):
Maybe you should just send him!

David (chuckles):
Ummm...don't tempt me.

Carter:
Anytime you're ready! I'd love it!

David:
One of these days, Carter...one of these days.

Carol's voice (on intercom):
Doug? You out there?

Doug (hits intercom button):
Yes, Love!

Carol's voice:
I need a pillow if there's one out there. My back is really killing me...

Doug:
I'll be right there.

David (motions):
Take one off an exam table. We shouldn't need it.

Mark:
Yeah, I saw your note on the door. What do you consider a real "emergency"?

David:
Non-stop bleeding or a dangling limb. Otherwise, I'll leave it up to you guys! You'll be here. I won't.

Mark (grunts):
Huh. We might have other ideas...

David:
That is strictly up to you!

Cut to show Doug placing a pillow behind Carol's back. She leans forward for him to place it, then she leans back against it and sighs with a satisfied smile.

Carol:
Oh, MUCH better! Thank you!

Doug (smiles):
OK now? Anything else?

Carol (shakes her head):
I'm fine. Thanks.

Cut to show Doug sitting back down at the table again with the files. David and Carter are working at the front desk. Doug and Mark are alone.

Mark (as Doug sits back down):
Carol OK?

Doug (nods):
Yeah, she's fine.

Mark:
Back still bothering her?

Doug (nods):
A little.

Mark (sincerely):
You know, Doug, that's a sign you could be a new daddy in the next 24 hours.

Doug (looks up, grins):
No, we're ten days away yet.

Mark (sighs):
Exactly how many babies do you know of have ever waited until their due date to be born?

Doug (not concerned):
Seriously, Mark, we are no way close to delivery yet. Carol has been having contractions and backaches for quite a while now. We've been watching it. We know what we're dealing with. We're fine.

Mark (nods):
If you say so...

Doug (chuckles):
Mark, come on! I'm a doctor! I think I would know if my wife was in labor...

Mark (shakes his head):
OK. But I'd keep an eye on her if I were you.

Doug:
Just relax, Mark. I know what I'm doing.

Cut to show Carol working at the computer in Doug's office. She is entering data from files carefully. She stops to take a sip of juice and quickly puts her hand on his stomach. She feels carefully, and makes a face.

Carol (pats her stomach):
Take it easy in there, Marcus Ray. You're not ready yet.

She takes another sip of juice and puts her hand on her stomach, reacting to a pain, but not violently.

Fade Act One to Black.

Act Two

Scene opens at C.A.R.E. Center. Show David Morganstern slipping into his coat and gathering up what he needs for the medical seminar in NY.

David:
Gentlemen...I leave this in your very trustworthy hands.

Mark (mock annoyed):
I want to know how you always manage to be away from the office for things like this.

David (sarcastic grin):
It's a knack.
(Doug chuckles)

Mark:
A well planned knack.

David (hand on the door knob):
OK, Men. Hold down the fort.

Doug (mocking):
We won't fire til we see the whites in their eyes, General.

Doug gives a mock salute. David laughs, gives the group a 'thumbs up' sign, and disappears out the door. The group returns to their files.

Carol's voice (on intercom):
Doug? Are you out there?

Doug (punches intercom button):
Yes, my love.

Carol's voice:
Could I see you back here, please?

Doug (scoots chair away from table):
On my way...

Follow as Doug runs down the hallway to his office and bolts into the door. Carol is sitting at the computer and smiles at him when he comes in.

Carol (pointing):
I dropped my pencil. Could you get it for me, please?

Doug (sighs):
Is THAT all! Don't DO that! You made me think something was wrong!

Carol (laughingly):
What can be wrong? I'm fine!

Doug:
How's your back?

Carol (shrugs):
It hurts a little...but no more than it has for the past week.

Doug (pats her stomach):
Still having Braxton-Hix?

Carol:
Like clockwork.

Doug:
But, you're OK?

Carol (takes her pencil, returns to the computer):
I'm fine.

Doug (starts for the door):
OK. Then, I'm going back out here.

Carol (smiles and waves at him):
OK.

Doug goes out the door, shaking his head, and goes back to the work station with Mark and Carter.

Mark (quietly as Doug slides into the chair):
What was that all about?

Doug (sarcastically):
She dropped her pencil.

Mark:
Got you trained well, doesn't she?

Doug (laughing):
Yeah, I guess she does!

Mark, Carter, and Doug continue to pour over files, making notes, and putting them into two separate stacks...one for Carol to enter and one just to file. They work quietly and without talking until the phone ringing across the room shatters their concentration.

Mark:
NOW what?

Doug (pushes chair back and starts for the phone):
I'll get it.

Mark:
Tell them we're closed!

Doug (answers phone):
County C.A.R.E. Center...we're closed unless this is an emergency.
(we continue to hear only his one side of the conversation)
I'm Dr. Ross. Well, what happened? Was there blood? Is she OK? OK, I'll go by the house and bring her a change of clothes. Please just keep her at the nurse's station until I get there. Yes. Thank you. I'm on my way.
(hangs up phone, turns to Mark and Carter)

Carter:
Something's wrong?

Doug (rolls his eyes):
Tatchie got hit in the face with a ball during recess. She's OK and she contained the blood to her own clothes and kept the other kids away, but, she needs fresh clothes!
(pause)
I better tell Carol...

Follow as Doug goes down the hall and opens the office door, sticking his head in to Carol.

Doug:
Hey.

Carol (looks up):
What's going on?

Doug:
School called. Tatchie got hit in the face with a ball at recess. She's OK and contained the blood to her own clothes, but, she needs fresh clothes. So, I'm gonna take them to her, OK?

Carol (concerned):
Are you sure she's OK?

Doug:
The nurse who called said she's fine. But, I'll know more myself when I see her. I'll be back. Mark and Carter are out there with the intercom if you need anything.

Carol:
OK...let me know as soon as you're back, OK?

Doug gives her a wave and goes out the door.

Cut to show Tatiana sitting on an exam table in a school nurses station. Her t-shirt is covered with dried blood and her feet do not touch the ground. Across the room near the doorway, a nurse in uniform is working at a desk. She looks up every once in a while to see if Tatiana is OK. Tatiana smiles each time their eyes meet and giggles.

Cut to show Doug appear in the window of the doorway. Tatiana sees him, smiles, and waves happily to him. Doug grins at her and opens the door to stand by the Nurse's desk.

Doug (quietly, to nurse):
I'm Dr. Ross. That's my daughter over there.

Tatiana (happily):
Hi, Papa!

Doug (starts over to her quickly):
Hi, Punkin! What happened?

Tatiana (giggles):
I got whacked!

Nurse (helpfully):
According to the little girl who saw it, it was just an accident.

Doug (grins):
Yeah, most of those playground things are. So, she's OK?

Nurse:
Yes, she's fine. The bleeding stopped. She handled everything herself. She kept the other children away and pulled her shirt up over her nose to catch the blood. I was really amazed a child so young knew so much precaution.

Doug:
I'm a doctor. I made sure she knows!
(hands Nurse a bag)
Well, here is a change of clothes for her.
(To Tatiana)
I hope you like what I picked out for you!

Tatiana (giggles):
I will, Papa.

Doug (kisses her forehead):
OK, well, you be good, OK? And I'll see you at home later.

Tatiana (nodding):
OK, Papa

Nurse (as she walks to the door with Doug):
Dr. Ross...do you think I could interest you in an HIV talk with some of the kids in a health class?

Doug (standing at door):
I think we could probably arrange that.

Nurse:
Well, I know things are hectic for you right now with your wife expecting a new baby, but maybe later? Next semester, maybe?

Doug (smiles):
Call me. We'll work something out. I'd be glad to help.
(Waves one last time to Tatiana)
Bye, Punkin! Take it easy.

Tatiana (waves to him):
Bye, Papa!

Cut back to C.A.R.E. Center. Show Mark Greene taking in some crushed ice in a cup to Carol in the office where she is working.

Mark:
Thought you might want to take a break.

Carol (looks up, grins):
Why? Because you and Carter did already?

Mark (sits in a chair):
That was one of the things, yeah.
(Pause)
I really wanted to see how you're feeling.

Carol (scoffs):
I'm fine! Why?

Mark:
Well, Doug mentioned your back was hurting you.

Carol:
Oh, that's no big deal. It's been hurting for a while.

Mark:
How long is "a while"?

Carol (shrugs):
About a week.

Mark:
Are you having any stomach pain with this backache?

Carol (sarcastically):
Yes, "Dr. Greene", it's called Braxton-Hix and I've had it for about a month now.

Mark:
I just don't want you to be too nonchalant about all this, Carol. Babies have a way of coming whenever they get ready.

Carol:
Well, we're over a week away. I think you're just a worried doctor.

Mark (grins):
Well, that's something I do well.
(stands up to leave)
You know where to find me if you need me.

Carol:
Just send Doug in here when he gets back so I can find out how it went at school.

Mark (nods):
I'll do that.

Mark goes out, but stays looking through the door without Carol watching him. Carol goes back to her computer, but, stops to place her hand on her stomach and frown. Mark nods with a smile as he goes on back to the work table.

Fade Act Two to Black.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------- --

Act Three

Scene opens at C.A.R.E. Center in Doug's office where Carol is working at the computer. She is working steadily when she suddenly puts her hand on her stomach and makes a startled face. She pats her belly and grins.

Carol (to her stomach):
Easy in there, Marcus Ray...I've got a lot of work to get done yet!

Apparently satisfied, she returns to work. But she has a confused and strange look on her face as she does.

Cut to show Doug coming in the staff door. Mark and Carter are working at the table and look up when they hear him come in.

Mark:
Everything OK with Tatiana?

Doug (hanging up his coat):
Oh, she's fine. She was having the time of her life in there. Didn't seem to bother her at all.
(pause)
How's Carol?

Mark:
Haven't heard much out of her. I assume she's OK back there.

Doug (starting down the hall):
I'm just gonna slip down there and check on her before I go back to work.

Mark (nods):
Good idea.

Show Doug slip down the hallway and push open the door to peer in before he enters. He sees Carol working away and smiles.

Doug (stepping into the office):
Hey! I'm back!

Carol (looks up, smiles delightedly):
Great! How was Tatchie? She OK?

Doug (goes in, sits on the edge of the desk):
Aw, she's fine. I think she got a charge out of it. It was just an accident.

Carol:
Well, those things happen. I'm just glad she was OK.

Doug:
The nurse said she was great! She put her shirt up over her face so none of the blood would spill, told the kids to get away from her and asked someone to get the teacher.

Carol:
We trained her well.

Doug:
Yeah, but, I never had to know if she KNEW what we taught her. I was really pleased to know she can handle it.
(pause)
The school nurse asked me if I would help her give a presentation about HIV and AIDS to the kids in health class. I told her I would. What do you think about that?

Carol:
I think that's a GREAT idea! And I think you should talk to Jeannie Boulet about it, too. I bet she would be willing to help, as well.

Doug (nodding):
I'll do that...when the time comes. But right now, I better get back to work before Mark comes after me. You need anything? You OK?

Carol:
I'm fine. Mark brought me some ice. I'm doing OK.

Doug (standing up to leave):
How's your back?

Carol:
It aches, but the pillow helps. I'm fine.

Doug:
Anymore contractions?

Carol:
A few...nothing out of the ordinary. Doug, please, I'm FINE...would you GO already?

Doug (chuckles):
OK! OK! I'm gone already!

Doug kisses her forehead, laughs, and heads out of the room. As soon as Doug is gone, Carol places her hand to her stomach and lets out some short quick breaths. Then, she shakes her head at her belly.

Carol (to her stomach):
Be careful where you kick in there, Little Mark. I don't want broken ribs or bruised lungs by the time you get here.

Cut to show Doug working at the table with Mark and Carter. Carter holds up a file to Doug and taps his pencil.

Carter:
This file on the Dekker kid. Did you ever get the results from County on the tests Anna ran?

Doug (nods, doesn't look up):
Yes, I did.

Carter:
They aren't in his file.

Doug (nods again):
Yeah, I know they're not. They kept the originals at County and I have the information in the computer. There should be a computer card in there with the file number on it...little blue card...

Carter (looks again):
Ah ha! Here it is! OK! Thanks!

Doug (chuckles):
No problem.

Mark (working on a file, doesn't look up):
How was Carol?

Doug (keeps working):
She's fine.

Mark:
Anymore contractions?

Doug:
A few, but, nothing out of the ordinary.

Mark:
What time is your appointment with Stephanie?

Doug:
Two o'clock.

Mark:
I think I'm going to feel a lot better about this when you guys see her.

Doug:
Mark, she's fine. Would you please stop worrying?

Mark:
I'll try, Bud, but just remember I'm the one who's actually been with a woman in labor.

Doug:
Yeah, well, I'm a doctor, too, and I know my wife is NOT in labor. We've got ten more days to go.

Mark (stops working, pushes his chair back and grins at Doug):
Want to make a bet?

Doug (stops working...looks up):
A bet on what?

Mark:
I will bet you $20 that this baby comes before the next ten days are up.

Doug:
Well, that's kind of a shallow bet, isn't it? I mean, that gives you ten days to work with!

Mark:
OK, I'll nail it down a little better. I will bet you $20 that this baby comes within the next 48 hours!

Doug (laughing):
OK! You're on!

They shake hands on their bet and return to working. Carter just chuckles at both of them from his own files.

Cut to show Carol working in Doug's office. She is keying into the computer when she suddenly stops and makes a face like she's been punched in the stomach. She puts her hand on her stomach and holds it there for a few seconds, making a face of concern as she does. But, then, she snickers slightly, and pats her belly. Turning back to the computer, she goes back to work.

Cut back to the table with the men. They are working quietly and steadily when they are interrupted by the phone ringing.

Doug (jumps up):
I'll get it...

Mark (snickers):
Sure...you're the man with children...it's probably for you anyway.

Doug (just before he picks up the phone):
You've got a kid, too, you know. In case you forgot.

Mark:
Oh, I didn't forget...I just never get to see her anymore.

Doug (hand on the receiver):
Who's fault is that?
(picks up phone, punches button)
County C.A.R.E., we're closed except for emergencies...
(we hear only his one side of the conversation)
OK, hold on.
(punches hold button and turns to Mark)
Hey, Mark, this is MediStat Warehouse...they have a bunch of supplies for us?

Mark (nods):
Yeah, Eleanor ordered those last week.

Doug:
They need to know if someone can pick them up?

Mark:
Yeah, sure! Carter and I can go get them if you think you'll be OK here by yourself?

Doug:
OK.
(punches hold button)
Sure! Someone will be right there. Thanks.

Doug hangs up the phone and goes back to the work table.

Mark (looks at Carter):
It'll take both of us to load it...you game?

Carter (snaps files shut and grins at Mark):
Sure!

Mark (to Doug):
You think you'll be OK here alone?

Doug (shrugs):
Should be. How long will it take?

Mark (stands up):
Oh, about an hour or so.

Doug (looks at clock on the wall):
Then, you guys will be back before I have to take Carol to her doctor. And even if you don't, I can just lock the door. No problem.

Mark (nods):
OK. We'll be back as soon as we can. Come on, Carter...we'll take my car...it's got plenty of room in it to load the supplies.

Carter (gets up from the table):
I'm right behind you, Dr. Greene.

Carter and Mark get their jackets and head out of the clinic. Focus on Doug working at the table. He is having trouble concentrating. He keeps fidgeting in the chair and tapping his pencil. He looks across the room at Eleanor's desk and sees a radio. He gets up and goes over to the radio, turns it on, and starts playing with the tuning dial. He stops when he hears strands of Nat King Cole singing "Ramblin' Rose", nods his head with a satisfied smile, and goes back to the work table.

Cut to Carol working in Doug's office. She is putting her hand to her stomach after almost every entry she enters into the computer. Finally, she stops and gets to her feet, heading for the door and into the hallway.

Doug (sees Carol in the hallway):
Something wrong, Hon?

Carol:
Just going to the bathroom.

Doug:
OK.

Focus on Carol as she pushes open the bathroom door and goes in. She stands in front of the mirror and her face is flushed. She is having a lot of pain and leans on the sink for support. She runs some cold water and splashes it on her face. She stands looking at her reflection in the mirror with a confused and concerned look.

Cut back to Doug working at the work table. The radio is playing old songs and he is into a groove now, bopping his head and chewing gum now. His work is interrupted by Carol coming slowly down the hallway.

Carol (almost in a panic):
Doug!? DOUG?

Doug puts his pencil down quickly and goes directly to her side.

Doug:
What is it, Carol? What's wrong?

Carol (gives him an excited look):
My water broke. I'm in labor.

Doug (shocked):
What?

Carol:
I've been having contractions all morning, but, I thought it was just Braxton-Hix. Turns out it was the real thing. When I went to the bathroom just now, my water broke.
(wide eyed look)
This is it, Doug. The baby is coming now!

Focus on Doug's shocked expression. He is holding Carol by the arm, but his expression is total surprise.

Fade Act Three to Black.

Act Four

Scene opens right where Act Three left off, focus on Doug's shocked expression.

Doug:
The baby is coming now? But you're not due for ten days yet!

Carol:
Well, Marcus Ray is ready to come NOW!

Doug (collects himself quickly):
OK! OK! Come in here and lie on the exam table. I'll call Stephanie and tell her to meet us at County.

Carol nods, and lets Doug help her to the exam table. She lays down on it and Doug starts for the phone.

Carol (quickly):
DOUG!

Doug (turns back sharply):
What?

Carol:
Before you call Stephanie, don't you think you should have some information for her?

Doug (taps his head):
Yeah...you're right.

Doug throws a sheet over Carol and looks under it to make a quick observation.

Doug:
You're only at 4. We've got plenty of time.
(goes to the phone and punches a number)
Hi! Yeah! This is Doug Ross, my wife, Carol, is a patient of Stephanie's. I need Stephanie to meet us at County ASAP...my wife is in labor. What do you mean she's out of town? We had an appointment this afternoon! Her assistant was going to take it? Well, where the hell is she? Then, you call her and tell her to get back here and meet us at County as soon as she's here!
(Doug bangs up the phone)
Well, that's just great! Stephanie is in Winnetka! Her assistant was going to take our appointment today.

Carol (soothingly):
Well, Winnetka isn't far. When Courtney calls her, she should be able to be back very soon.
(pain hits, Carol reacts quickly with a groan)

Doug (rushes to her):
Are you OK?

Carol (breathing in pants):
That was a good one...a REAL good one.

Doug (looks under the sheet):
This is happening too fast! You've dilated again. Will you slow down?

Carol (panting and groaning):
I can't help it! This baby wants to get here NOW!

Doug (runs his hand through his hair):
Mark, where are you when I need you!

Carol (reaches her hand to him):
Doug, it's OK. You're a doctor. You've delivered tons of babies in the ER. You can do this...don't panic.

Doug (calming down):
OK! OK! You're right...I know how to do this...

A pain hits Carol and she squeezes his hand tightly in hers, letting out a groan and sitting up slightly.

Cut to show Mark and Carter, sitting in Mark's car, on the freeway in bumper to bumper traffic. Both look annoyed.

Carter (looking ahead):
Something must be wrong. It's never this bad.

Mark (sees a policeman and rolls down his window):
What's going on, Officer?

Policeman:
Wreck up ahead...about a 10 car pile up...going to take some time to clear it.

Mark (nods):
Thank you.
(sighs, picks up a Cellular phone beside him)
I better call Doug and tell him we're going to be late.
(punches number)

Cut to show Doug with Carol at the table. Carol is groaning, panting, and sitting up, hanging onto Doug. She is in intense pain and high labor. Doug hears the phone and wiggles his hand loose from her hold. Show split screen to show both sides of the conversation.

Doug (grabbing phone receiver):
County C.A.R.E., what the hell do you want?

Mark (chuckles):
Something wrong, Doug?

Doug:
Mark! Yes! Carol's in labor! Full blown! She's dilated to 6 already...this baby is coming on a rocket sled! Where the hell are you? I NEED you!

Mark (trying not to panic):
I'm stuck in traffic out on the interstate. There's been an accident with a 10 car pile up. I could be stuck here a while. Doug, just take it easy! You're a doctor, remember? You know what you're doing. You can deliver this baby. You've delivered lots of babies...

Doug:
But they weren't MY babies! Mark! I need you...I REALLY need you!

Mark:
I'll be there as soon as I can, Buddy! Just be calm, OK? You can do this...with your eyes closed! Did you call your OB?

Doug (runs his hand through his hair, despairingly):
She's in Winnetka...they'll call her.

Mark (sighs):
Well, she's going to have to come this way to get to County...hopefully they'll clear this traffic by then...we'll all get there as soon as we can, Bud. You got this number in case you need to call me?

Doug (nods, paces):
Yeah, I got here by the phone.

Mark:
OK, Buddy...just hang in there.
(punches off phone and turns to Carter)
Carol is in labor.

Carter (surprised):
For real?

Mark:
For real. And Doug is coming apart at the seams.

Carter (nods his head):
Yeah, well, I don't know how I'd react if I was faced with delivering my own child.

Mark (chuckles):
Yeah, me neither...

Cut back to C.A.R.E. Center. Carol is in a lot of pain and Doug is under the sheet making notes of progress.

Carol:
Doug...we're not going to make it to County, are we?

Doug (out from under the sheet, goes beside her and takes her hand):
I don't think so. This baby really wants to get here. Besides, Mark says there's a wreck out on the highway...we'd never get there.
(gives her a comforting look)
I think we're better off if we just stay here until he comes.

Pain hits, Carol squeezes his hand, sits up, and lets out a wail.

Carol (panting):
I don't think it's gonna be much longer.

Doug (grins):
It's not...
(pained expression)
But, it's already too late to give you anything. Will you be OK?

Carol (nods, pants):
I'll be OK. You just go down there and do your thing...I'll take care of everything else.

Carol lays back down on the table and rolls her head against the pain. Doug starts making preparations to make the delivery.

Cut to show Stephanie stuck in traffic on the interstate. She reaches for her car phone and quickly punches a number. We hear only her one side of the conversation.

Stephanie:
Hi, Anna...it's Stephanie. I just got a call from my office that Carol Ross is in labor and she and Doug were on their way to County, are they there yet? No? Well, I understand they are coming, so, would you kind of watch out for them? I'm stuck in traffic on the interstate and I have no idea when I'll get there. If I'm not there when they come, call my assistant and she can deliver the baby. Thanks, Anna.

She hangs up with a puzzled look. Then, she picks up the phone and punches another number.

Cut to show phone ringing at C.A.R.E. Center, but Doug has the phone across the room and right beside him now. He reaches for it quickly. Split the screen to show both parties.

Doug (annoyed):
Mark?

Stephanie:
No, Doug, it's me!

Doug:
Am I ever glad to hear your voice! Where ARE you?

Stephanie:
I'm stuck in traffic on the interstate...

Doug (sighs):
Yeah, there's a 10 car pile up. Mark's stuck in it, too.

Stephanie:
How's it going down there?

Doug:
This baby is coming on a torpedo! She's gone from 6 to 9 in less than an hour. I think he's going to be here in the next hour.

Stephanie (calmly):
OK, Doug, you can do this, you know. You're a doctor and you've delivered babies before...

Doug:
But not MY baby...

Stephanie:
Your baby is no different than any other baby, Doug. He's going to come into this world exactly the same way. If we can't get there, you just take over. Everything will be OK and I will meet you at County just as soon as I can get there.

Doug (nods his head):
OK.

Stephanie (assuringly):
You can DO this, Doug. Good luck.

Doug (breathing heavily):
Yeah...OK...thanks, Stephanie.

He hangs up the phone just as a BIG pain hits Carol.

Carol (sits up, grabs Doug by the arm):
Ooooohhhhh! Omigod! Doug! DO something!

Doug (goes into action):
Just lie back, Babe! And bite the bullet. And get ready to see our son...

Doug goes into full action. He puts latex gloves on his hands, gets all his affairs in order, and gets an extra blanket for the baby. He sets Carol up in stirrups and makes another check.

Doug:
This is it, Honey!

Carol (suddenly panicked):
Doug, I can't do this! It hurts too much! I'm going to split in two...

Doug (professional voice):
You're going to do fine, Carol! You CAN do this! I know you can!

Carol (shakes her head...panic stricken):
No! I can't! I really can't...

Doug (firmly):
Yes, you can, Carol! You can do anything! I know you can! And I'm right here with you...I won't let anything happen! Right now, you need to push...God, I really need some help with this...

Doug goes around and helps her sit up. He keeps one hand on her back and one hand under the covers.

Doug (demanding):
Push, Carol! Push!

Carol pushes with all her might. Her face shows pain and she cries out loudly as she pushes.

Doug (easing her back down):
That was real good, honey.
(looks under the covers)
I can see the head, Carol! He's coming! Come on, honey! PUSH!

Unassisted, Carol struggles to sit up. She grips the table with both hands and pushes with everything she's got, wailing and shaking, but pushing none the less.

Doug (encouraging):
One more, Honey! You can do it! Come on!!

Carol sits up, grips the table, and pushes again, hard and strong...wailing and gritting her teeth.

Doug (excited):
I've got him! I've got him, Carol! He's here!

Carol relaxes and collapses back onto the table

Cut focus to Doug, holding a squirming, screaming baby in his hands. His hands shake and his eyes mist with tears as he cut the umbilical cord and carefully places his son in a blanket and carries him to Carol to place him on her stomach.

Doug (soft, shaky voice):
Say hello to your son, Mrs. Ross.

Carol (gazes at baby, tears on her face):
Omigod! Just LOOK at you! Hello, Marcus Ray!
(touches baby carefully and smiles)

Doug (tears in his eyes, big smile):
I love you so much...
(kisses her sweetly)
I'm so proud of you, Carol. You were great.

Carol:
I couldn't have done it without you. I was so glad you were here.

Cut to show Mark and Carter rushing in the back door. When he hears the door bang, Doug looks around and smiles.

Doug:
Too late, Mark...you missed it.

Mark and Carter go quickly over the table to see that their couple has become a family.

Mark (smiles, hand on Doug's shoulder):
Everything go OK?

Doug:
Perfect. Carol was great. She was just fantastic.
(picks up baby and turns to Mark with him)
Say hello to little Marcus Ray Ross, Mark. There's going to be two 'Mark's' running around here now.

Mark (taken aback):
'Mark'? You're going to call him 'Mark'?

Doug (smiles, lays baby in Mark's arms):
Yeah...after my best friend.

Focus on Mark gazing at the baby, Carter smiling and looking in at him, and Doug and Carol lost in a new parents kiss.

Fade Act Four to Black.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------- --

Closing Act

Scene opens at County General. Carol is in a room there now and the baby is with her. Doug is also with her when Stephanie comes in.

Stephanie (smiles from the foot of the bed):
Congratulations, you two. Doug...I heard you did great.

Doug (shakes his head, looks at Carol):
I didn't do anything...she was the trooper. She was just fantastic, Steph. You'd have been proud of her.

Stephanie:
I'm proud of BOTH of you. You brought a fine, healthy boy into the world.

Carol (cuddles baby, smiles):
Nine pounds, Eight ounces they told me...and 21 inches long.

Stephanie:
He's in great shape...you guys did great.

Doug:
Thanks.

Stephanie:
There's a whole crowd of people in the hall...I told them two at a time.

Carol (nods):
That's great. Thanks.

Stephanie leaves and staff from County starts filing in, two at a time. Anna Del Amico and Kerry Weaver...Peter Benton and Lizzie Corday...various other former staff members.

The next two to come are the Grandmothers, Helen and Sarah. Helen opens the door and they look in to see that Doug and Carol are alone. Little Mark is sleeping in his mother's arms.

Helen:
May we come in?

Doug (looks up, smiles):
Please!

The Grandmothers come in and go right to the bed to peer at the baby. The 'oohhs' and 'aahhs' start at once and Carol rolls her eyes and hands the baby to her mother.

Helen (gently rocking the baby in her arms):
Oh, would you just look at that little darling?

Sarah (looking at baby):
He looks like you, Doug.

Doug (shrugs):
I think he looks like Carol.

Helen:
He looks like BOTH of you and he is just beautiful!
(to Carol)
Did you have any trouble?

Carol (shakes her head):
Not really. Nothing out of the ordinary.

Sarah (to Doug):
They said you delivered him?

Doug (nods):
Yep! Sure did.

Sarah:
How'd you do with that?

Carol (teasing Doug):
He panicked a little. But, when the time came, he just buckled down and did what he knew how to do! He was great. (reaches for his hand)
And I couldn't have done it without him.

Doug (to Helen):
Did you bring the kids?

Helen:
Yes, they're down in the game room.

Doug (kisses Carol's hand):
I'll be right back, Hon, OK?

Carol (nods):
Sure.

Doug leaves the room and goes directly to the hospital game room. He sees Scott and Tatiana, Scott is playing a video game and Tatiana is watching him. He goes in and stands quietly behind them so not to disturb the game, but, Tatiana sees him.

Tatiana:
PAPA!

Doug (scoops her up in his arms):
Hey, Punkin! How's your nose?

Tatiana (puts her arms around his neck):
It's fine!

Scott ends his game and turns to Doug with a smile.

Scott (grinning):
So, way to go, Dad. Nana Helen says we have a new baby brother.

Doug (lifts Tatiana to the ground and takes her by the hand):
You sure do! I thought you guys would like to come up and see him.

Scott & Tatiana (in unison):
Yeah!

Tatiana (as they walk to the elevator):
Is Mama OK?

Doug:
Your Mama is just fine!

Scott (carefully):
She do OK with it?

Doug (nods):
She did great. A real trooper. I was really proud of her.

Cut to show Doug coming into Carol's room with both kids with him. When the Grandmothers see the children, they take that as their cue to leave.

Sarah:
We really must be going, dear. We'll see you all later at home.

Doug (smiles):
Thanks, Mom.

Helen kisses Carol on the head, touches the baby one last time, and both Grandmothers go quietly out of the room.

Carol (to Scott and Tatiana):
Well, come here, and tell me what you think of him.

Both kids inch over to the baby and Carol opens the blanket to show them Marcus Ray. He is fussing and kicking and punching his tiny fists but not crying.

Tatiana (astonished):
Mama! I've got baby dolls bigger than him!

Carol:
Well, don't worry, honey, he'll grow.

Scott:
Can I hold him?

Carol (lifts baby to him):
Sure.

Scott sits in a chair next to Carol's bed and holds his baby brother in his arms. Tatiana stands close by so she can get a better look at him.

Scott (talks to the baby):
Hi, Mark! I'm Scott! I'm your big brother!
(baby opens his eyes and glares up at him)
I'm gonna teach you baseball...and basketball...and hockey... and soccer...you just wait a few years...we're gonna have all kinds of fun together!

Tatiana (pouting):
What can I teach him?

Scott (grins at her):
Oh, you can teach him about tea parties...you're real good at that. And you can teach him about dance and that kind of stuff.

Tatiana (nodding):
Yeah!

Scott:
He doesn't know about anything yet. We have to teach him all the things we want him to know. But, not for a while yet...

Tatiana:
How will I know when I can teach him.

Doug (chuckles):
You'll know, Punkin. You'll just know.

Scott hands the baby back to Carol and the family stands together gazing at the new life in their lives.

Scott:
Are we going home with Nana Helen?

Doug:
No, Nana Sarah this time. Nana Helen is now officially 'off duty'.

Scott:
Then, I think we should go.

Carol:
I'll see you guys later, OK? Be good.

Scott and Tatiana both give Carol a kiss and disappear out the door. Doug and Carol are left alone to admire their new son.

Carol:
He's beautiful, Doug. I can't believe I had part in something that turned out like this.

Doug (leans on the bed with her, touches the baby gently):
Me either. He's really something.
(kisses her tenderly)
I love you. You know that don't you.

Carol (smiles shyly at him):
How could I not? I've got living evidence right here in my arms.

The new parents meet each other in a tender kiss while Marcus Ray looks on and bats his fists in the air.

Cut to show Doug and Mark standing in front of the baby window looking in at Marcus Ray who is sleeping soundly in the nursery. Doug reaches into his pocket and produces a $20 bill and hands it to Mark.

Doug:
Here you go...you won the bet.

Mark (looks at the bill and shakes his head):
I can't take your money.

Doug:
Why not? You won it fair and square!

Mark:
I can't take money from a man who named his son after me. You keep it. Buy something for the baby with it.

Doug (quietly):
You know, I missed all this with Scott because I was never a part of his life. This has been an experience I'm glad I had. I have such an incredible feeling right now. Was that what it was like for you when Rachel was born?

Mark (nods, sadly):
Yeah. Yeah, it really was. And it lasted a long time. I love Rachel, Doug. Don't get me wrong. I wish I was better father to her...

Doug:
Well, Jennifer has something to do with that.

Mark:
Yeah, but I could put forth a little more effort, too.
(turns to face Doug)

Mark (continued):
Be there for this little guy, Doug. Be a father to him.

Doug:
I intend to be. And I've got lots of friends to influence him as well. He's one lucky little boy, Mark.

Mark (puts his arm around Doug's shoulders):
Yeah...he sure is.

Both men start making faces and waving to the sleeping baby in the nursery. Pull back for a long shot and fade into closing credits of the show.

February 10, 1998