TEASER
FADE IN:
INT. HOMESTEAD - DAY ONE 1
MIKE flips through a recipe book at the pantry, eagerly scanning the pages. She pauses to consider:
MIKE
Apple chutney?
SULLY, cradling KATIE, and BRIAN look up from the breakfast table, puzzled by Mike's question.
BRIAN
What's chutney?
MIKE
It's a sort of spicy relish.
Brian is not thrilled by the description. Neither is Sully.
SULLY
Ever make it before?
MIKE
(shakes her head)
It shouldn't be too difficult. I'll just follow the recipe...
(looking back at the book)
This dinner has to be special. It's Katie's first Thanksgiving, Colleen will be home from school today...
BRIAN
(remembering, relieved)
That's right. Colleen'll be home to help cook.
Sully nods, relieved, too. Mike looks up from her book.
MIKE
Colleen needs her time at home to study.
Sully sees Mike's determination -- it's best to support her.
SULLY
Your ma's gonna fix a real fine meal for us, Brian.
(CONTINUED)
2.
CONTINUED: 1
BRIAN
(catching Sully's signal)
Oh. Sure, Ma, it's gonna be great.
Mike smiles, appreciating their encouragement.
MIKE
Well, I certainly intend to try. It's not often we're all together anymore...
OFF Mike as she focuses back on the recipe...
EXT. BANK - DAY ONE 2
A WORKER finishes washing the front window. PRESTON inspects the glass, nodding and smiling.
PRESTON
Good work. A fine start.
Start? The worker looks at the clean pane, confused.
PRESTON
(indicating)
Streak. Smudge. No sparkle. The bank has to look perfect today.
(a confidential aside)
Do well here and there'll be a lot more windows for you to wash at my new hotel.
Inspired, the worker begins again. Preston smiles, but before he steps away, he catches his reflection in the glass and anxiously adjusts his hat and lapels.
ANDREW approaches, observing him with curious amusement.
ANDREW
Special occasion?
PRESTON
I should say so. My father's train is due in. He's come all the way from Boston.
ANDREW
You must be looking forward to seeing him.
Preston nods and takes a breath, clearly nervous, too.
(CONTINUED)
3.
CONTINUED: 2
Something up ahead catches Andrew's eye.
+ANDREW'S POV 3
Mike and Sully cross toward the train station.
+BACK TO ANDREW AND PRESTON 4
as Preston notices Mike, too, and looks pointedly at Andrew.
PRESTON
Have you told her?
ANDREW
I -- just haven't found the right time.
PRESTON
Andrew, we've talked about this. My investors will all be here on Thanksgiving, and they expect to meet the doctor who's running my hotel's clinic. I want that doctor to be you.
ANDREW
So do I.
PRESTON
Then tell Michaela that you're leaving.
Preston stares, waiting.
ANDREW
Now? Preston...
PRESTON
(sighs)
Well, I'm afraid you've put me in a terrible position. Dr. Cassidy's been hounding me, daily, for the job. I've tried to hold him off, but -- since you're clearly not ready to work without Michaela's supervision...
ANDREW
I'm ready. I'm definitely ready.
(steeling his resolve)
I'll tell Michaela right now.
Preston smiles as he and Andrew head for...
4.
EXT. TRAIN STATION - DAY ONE 5
Mike and Sully cross the platform. Mike beams, excited to welcome Colleen home.
HORACE steps out of his office with a telegram. He has the guilty look of a messenger bearing disappointing news.
SULLY
(misreading Horace's expression)
Mornin', Horace. Train late?
Horace opens his mouth to explain, then simply thrusts forward the telegram. Sully reads it as Mike looks on, worried.
SULLY
Colleen ain't comin' today.
MIKE
What?
SULLY
Teacher gave 'em extra work to finish before Thanksgivin'. She'll try to be home by Thursday.
MIKE
Try to be...?
This disturbing development is punctuated by a train whistle. Mike turns toward the sound.
HORACE
Wanna wire her back, Dr. Mike?
Mike nods vaguely, staring at the approaching train in dismay.
SULLY
Don't worry. Colleen'll make it home in time.
MIKE
(smiling but uncertain)
Of course she will. She won't want to miss the holiday.
Mike starts to follow Sully and Horace toward the telegraph office when Andrew stops her. He looks ill-at-ease.
ANDREW
Michaela?
(CONTINUED)
5.
CONTINUED: 5
Mike assumes that Andrew has come to meet Colleen, too.
MIKE
Oh, Andrew... I'm afraid Colleen's not on the train. She had to stay at school.
ANDREW
Colleen? Well, I'm sorry to hear that, but -- I'm not here to meet Colleen...
Andrew hesitates and glances over at Preston, who, several yards away, glares back urgently. Andrew turns to Mike again.
ANDREW
Actually, I've wanted to tell you --
But the train arrives, brakes squealing, distracting Mike. Andrew sighs in frustration.
+ANGLE - THE DOORWAY OF THE TRAIN 6
The CONDUCTOR steps down, followed by the PASSENGERS.
+ON THE PLATFORM 7
Preston braces himself to greet his father, staring up at the door.
+ANGLE - PRESTON A. LODGE, II 8
as he emerges from the car. He's a domineering, impeccably tailored man who exudes success and robust confidence.
+PRESTON 9
steps forward with a tense smile.
PRESTON
Father...
Mr. Lodge spots him and smiles. They move closer.
MR. LODGE
Well then... you haven't changed much, now have you?
PRESTON
It's been fourteen months, sir, I may still surprise you.
(CONTINUED)
6.
CONTINUED: 9
They stop in front of each other. And firmly shake hands.
+ANGLE ON MIKE 10
as she curiously observes the two Lodges.
+BACK TO PRESTON AND MR. LODGE 11
PRESTON
I trust Mother is well?
MR. LODGE
(nods)
She and your brothers send their regards.
PRESTON
And your journey was pleasant?
MR. LODGE
Tumultuous. There were terrible storms across the Plains.
PRESTON
Well, you're here now, Father, safely. And I'm...
(searching for the word, guarded but sincere)
Honored that you made such a long trip.
MR. LODGE
I made good use of the time and secured some new business along the way.
Preston nods, wishing for a warmer, more fatherly display of affection. And getting none.
MR. LODGE
Yes, well...
(surveying the setting)
Let's see this charming, little empire of yours...
Mr. Lodge strides off toward... Mike and Andrew. Preston, already flustered, jogs after him.
PRESTON
First, sir, let me introduce the finest physician in Colorado Springs...
(CONTINUED)
7.
CONTINUED: 11
Mike smiles, surprised by Preston's endorsement. She sticks out her hand, but Preston whisks his father right past her.
PRESTON
Dr. Andrew Cook.
Andrew winces, then smiles. Mike withdraws her hand, abashed.
MR. LODGE
(studying Andrew)
The finest physician? Then you must be the one running my son's clinic.
Andrew casts an uneasy glance toward Mike, then sees Preston's expectant, imploring stare -- and shakes Mr. Lodge's hand.
ANDREW
Yes, sir, that's right... I am.
Preston exhales with relief. OFF Mike, staggered by Andrew's announcement as we...
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
8.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
EXT. TELEGRAPH OFFICE - DAY ONE 12
Sully writes his message to Colleen and passes it to Horace through the window.
HORACE
I'll send it right away, Sully.
Horace moves to send the telegram as Mike steps up to Sully, looking preoccupied.
SULLY
Told Colleen to do the best she can. Let us know when she's comin'.
Mike barely nods. Sully misinterprets her concern.
SULLY
She'll get her work done, Michaela.
MIKE
(pensive, distracted)
Andrew's leaving the clinic...
Sully looks at her curiously. Mike looks up to explain:
MIKE
Andrew's opening his own clinic at Preston's new hotel.
Sully can see that Mike is unsettled by the news.
SULLY
That alright with you?
Mike smiles, but she's confused by her mixed feelings.
MIKE
Certainly.
SULLY
(he knows his wife)
Ya sure?
MIKE
It's a wonderful opportunity for him, Sully. Of course I'm sure.
Sully nods, backing off. We go out on Mike, her smile fading...
9.
EXT. TOWN - DAY ONE 13
Strolling away from the train station, Preston gives Mr. Lodge a tour of Colorado Springs. Andrew tags along.
PRESTON
(with flair, trying to impress)
Everyone comes here, Father, with a dream... a passion for independence and success, to stake a claim on the frontier...
Mr. Lodge looks around, half-listening, taking stock.
MR. LODGE
Dirt.
PRESTON
Pardon?
MR. LODGE
Dirt streets. No sense of permanence or stability.
PRESTON
Well, we're still a young town, sir. The streets will be paved. We're growing one step at a time.
ANDREW
Yes, the people here, sir -- they're used to a slower pace. It's not like Boston.
MR. LODGE
Not yet. But soon.
(grins, claps Preston's shoulder)
There's a Lodge leading the way.
Preston's smile shakes under the weight of his father's expectations. He looks ahead, more encouraged.
PRESTON
Speaking of progress, sir, all of it begins right here...
+THEIR POV 14
Preston's bank. The spotless window gleams in the modest, but perfectly respectable building.
+BACK TO MR. LODGE 15
as he steps forward to inspect it.
(CONTINUED)
10.
CONTINUED: 15
MR. LODGE
Yes, yes, good thinking, son. You were wise to start small.
PRESTON
Small?
MR. LODGE
A larger bank might have intimidated these frontier people.
Preston nods, glancing off, relieved by the distraction when Sully and Mike walk their way, followed by Wolf.
PRESTON
Sully... Michaela...!
Sully and Mike pause as Preston brings over Mr. Lodge. Andrew lingers behind, but Mike catches his eye and he looks away, discomforted.
PRESTON
I'd like to present my father. Preston A. Lodge II, Dr. Michaela Quinn...
MIKE
Mr. Lodge. Welcome.
MR. LODGE
Dr. Quinn?
MIKE
Yes. And I believe you knew my father -- Dr. Josef Quinn.
(jogging Lodge's memory)
You declined his loan?
MR. LODGE
Oh yes. A bad risk, I'm afraid.
MIKE
(staying poised)
Fortunately, another banker felt otherwise. My father secured his loan, and his practice became one of the largest -- and most profitable -- in Boston.
Put in his place, Mr. Lodge clears his throat, turns to Sully.
MR. LODGE
And you are?
(CONTINUED)
11.
CONTINUED: (2) 15
Sully shakes Mr. Lodge's hand with unflappable self-assurance.
SULLY
Sully.
MR. LODGE
That's succinct. And what is your profession, sir?
Sully hesitates -- how did that question follow?
PRESTON
I've been here for more than a year and still haven't figured that out.
Sully turns a cool stare on Preston, who keeps needling.
PRESTON
Sully is our wilderness renaissance man.
Mr. Lodge regards Sully with genuine interest.
MR. LODGE
A wilderness man...
(notices Wolf)
Indeed.
(to Sully)
I expect you could tell some remarkable stories...
Preston realizes that his dig at Sully has backfired -- and moves quickly to recapture his father's attention.
PRESTON
Sir, we should ride over to my hotel, if you're not too tired. The light there this time of day is dazzling.
Mr. Lodge nods at Mike and Sully as Preston guides him away, exposing Andrew in their wake.
Mike and Andrew trade strained looks. Sully backs away, seeing an opportunity for them to talk.
SULLY
Gotta see... Robert E -- 'bout somethin'.
Mike eyes Sully, knowing what he's up to. He gives her a bolstering smile.
SULLY
See ya later...
(CONTINUED)
12.
CONTINUED: (3) 15
Sully goes to the livery. Mike smiles awkwardly at Andrew, then heads for the clinic. Andrew hesitates for a beat before jogging after her.
ANDREW
Michaela...?
Mike lets him catch up, then keeps walking.
ANDREW
I know my news caught you off-guard this morning.
MIKE
Yes, well...
ANDREW
I tried to discuss it with you earlier, privately. I never intended to surprise you.
MIKE
I understand.
Mike manages a smile, but Andrew can see the tension behind it.
ANDREW
I want you to know -- I've learned a great deal working with you, and I truly value the experience. It's just...
Before Andrew can continue, he and Mike notice LOREN waiting outside the clinic.
LOREN
I'm early, Dr. Mike.
MIKE
That's fine, Loren, I'll be right in.
Loren goes inside. Andrew turns to Mike, tactfully:
ANDREW
Loren was my patient when you were home with Katie. Then as soon as you came back to work...
MIKE
(simply, not defensive)
I've been Loren's doctor for years.
(CONTINUED)
13.
CONTINUED: (4) 15
ANDREW
And you'll continue to be, as you should.
(beat)
This will always be your clinic, Michaela. That's your name up on that sign. And now, I'm hoping, you'll give me your blessing to hang a sign of my own.
Mike wants to encourage him, but she feels abandoned. Her response is obligatory, not heartfelt:
MIKE
You know that I wish you the best.
Andrew wishes for more, but Mike just smiles tightly at him.
MIKE
Loren's waiting.
Mike turns into the clinic. Andrew watches her, distressed.
EXT. TRAIL TO THE SPRINGS CHATEAU HOTEL - DAY ONE 16
Preston and Mr. Lodge ride a carriage through the woods.
PRESTON
I've never worked harder in my life, Father. Every aspect of the hotel, every detail, has been my decision...
(excited)
It's just around the bend.
Preston glances at his father, but Mr. Lodge doesn't lean forward or change expression. He just sits calmly and waits.
Still, Preston can't help grinning with anticipation as the carriage rolls past some trees and... there it is...
+THE SPRINGS CHATEAU AND HEALTH RESORT 17
A sprawling, stylish building of great charm, with trellises and thin columns along a wraparound porch.
+BACK TO SCENE 18
As Preston drives on and parks in front of the hotel. A few WORKERS are putting on the finishing touches.
(CONTINUED)
14.
CONTINUED: 18
Mr. Lodge climbs down from the carriage and surveys the property. Preston follows, bracing for his father's reaction. Finally:
MR. LODGE
It's a very pleasant building, Preston.
Preston smiles, but... that's it? He guides Mr. Lodge toward the hot spring, trying to stir up some enthusiasm.
PRESTON
And the main attraction here, Father -- my natural hot spring. You see I've cleared away all the brush and built this elegant decking.
MR. LODGE
(with genuine pride)
Yes. Excellent, Preston. Well done.
Preston is pleased, but Mr. Lodge looks up to consider the hotel again, distracted, bothered...
MR. LODGE
I suppose I pictured something a bit more... substantial -- but I can see that there's room to expand. You do intend to add more stories?
PRESTON
(swallowing his hurt, smiling)
Several.
Mr. Lodge looks satisfied, but the pride and joy drains from Preston's face...
EXT. HILLTOP - DAY ONE (SAME TIME) 19
On horseback, JAKE and HANK gaze down at the valley.
+THEIR POV - THE HOTEL 20
Preston and Mr. Lodge are heading toward the main entrance.
+BACK TO JAKE AND HANK 21
They act nonchalant, but the hotel is undeniably grand by Colorado Springs standards.
(CONTINUED)
15.
CONTINUED: 21
JAKE
It ain't much.
HANK
Nah, all work is what it is. Runnin' that place's gonna eat up all 'a Preston's profits.
JAKE
If he's got any. We're doin' our place up right. Keepin' things simple.
They stare at the hotel and sigh, increasingly depressed.
HANK
Got the Hot Springs right over there, huh? That's gonna be a draw.
JAKE
Rooms're prob'ly real big 'n fancy.
HANK
(a beat, grins)
We still got one thing Preston's hotel don't.
(looks slyly at Jake)
Entertainment.
Jake smiles, pleased by the reminder.
INT. GAZETTE - DAY ONE 22
DOROTHY prints the latest edition. LOREN comes in eagerly.
LOREN
My new advertisement...
(snatches a freshly printed page)
Hot off the press.
DOROTHY
That ink's still wet.
Loren checks his fingers -- they're blackened with ink. Dorothy gives him an amused look as Preston enters with Mr. Lodge.
(CONTINUED)
16.
CONTINUED: 22
PRESTON
Father, I'd like you to meet our town's preeminent journalist, Dorothy Jennings. And Loren Bray, proprietor of the General Store.
LOREN
Always pleased to meet a fellow entrepreneur...
Loren sticks out his ink-stained hand. Mr. Lodge looks at it, hesitating. Loren self-consciously withdraws it.
DOROTHY
(smiles cordially)
How nice that you're here to spend the holiday with your son.
Mr. Lodge looks puzzled.
DOROTHY
Thanksgivin'?
MR. LODGE
Thanksgiving? Thanksgiving happens every year, but Preston's hotel opening, that's a momentous occasion.
Mr. Lodge smiles at Preston, who is delighted by his father's praise.
PRESTON
Dorothy, I want you there by two on Thursday. You can interview the hotel's investors before the opening ceremony.
DOROTHY
(innocently)
I couldn't possibly be there before four.
Preston stops and Mr. Lodge knits his brow -- did Dorothy... this woman... just dare contradict his son?
DOROTHY
I'm doin' research -- for my book. I scheduled an interview on Thursday for most of the afternoon.
(CONTINUED)
17.
CONTINUED: (2) 22
PRESTON
You'll have to re-schedule.
DOROTHY
Pardon?
PRESTON
My Grand Opening is big news for this town. If you want to be taken seriously, as a professional journalist --
DOROTHY
(bristling)
I am a professional journalist.
PRESTON
Then give my story the attention it deserves.
DOROTHY
Your story'll get the proper attention, Preston -- startin' at four.
Dorothy stares defiantly. Preston backs away from the challenge and leaves with his father. Dorothy exhales.
LOREN
Who's this you're interviewin'?
DOROTHY
My book's about Cloud Dancin', Loren.
LOREN
You goin' out to the reservation?
DOROTHY
I wanna be able to describe how Cloud Dancin' and the other Indians live.
Loren scoffs, but Dorothy cuts him off with a look and gets back to work.
EXT. GAZETTE - DAY ONE - SAME TIME 23
Mr. Lodge takes Preston aside, perturbed.
MR. LODGE
That Gazette is your newspaper, Preston, and that woman in there, she works for you.
(CONTINUED)
18.
CONTINUED: 23
PRESTON
Well, not exactly. You see, I co-own the newspaper. With Miss Jennings.
MR. LODGE
Co-own? You gave her fifty percent?
PRESTON
(hating to reveal this)
Actually... Dorothy owns fifty-one percent.
Mr. Lodge gapes incredulously. Oh, the shame of that deal.
MR. LODGE
No wonder she didn't listen to you.
Preston droops, feeling miserable.
INT. HOMESTEAD - NIGHT ONE 24
Mike measures spices precisely, as if the recipe were a scientific formula. She stirs them into a pot.
Sully comes over, enjoying the vapors. He starts to dip in a spoon, but Mike playfully claps a cover over the pot.
MIKE
The chutney needs to simmer for an hour.
Mike returns to her mixing bowls. Dives into another recipe.
MIKE
I never understood before -- cooking can be a comfort.
Sully nods, watching her. He doesn't want to press, but...
SULLY
You talk to Andrew?
Mike pauses. Nods with a sigh. Looks at Sully.
MIKE
It's not that I don't wish him well, Sully. I do. Of course I do. It's just that --
(surprised by herself)
I've grown accustomed to having Andrew around.
(MORE)
(CONTINUED)
19.
CONTINUED: 24
MIKE (CONT'D)
When he was at the clinic, I could be home, with Katie. And after all, Mother brought Andrew here to help me, and now he's -- well, he's --
SULLY
Competition?
Mike almost flinches, hearing the word aloud.
MIKE
No...
(anxiously whisks a bowl)
I'm not concerned about that...
(whisks some more)
But I did enjoy having another physician around to discuss cases.
SULLY
You can still discuss cases with him.
Mike remains disturbed by the new arrangement.
SULLY
Michaela, Andrew left Boston, left his family to come out West and make a good livin' here as a doctor. That remind ya of anybody?
Mike looks at Sully, getting his point. She smiles softly.
MIKE
Not especially.
As Sully returns her smile, we
CUT TO:
EXT. CAFE - DAY TWO 25
The REVEREND, Hank, and Jake eat lunch together. GRACE works nearby.
Preston and Mr. Lodge approach. Preston looks tired and stressed. His father's visit is already taking its toll.
REVEREND
Preston, looks like you need a cup of coffee.
(CONTINUED)
20.
CONTINUED: 25
PRESTON
I could use two, Reverend. I was up late planning my opening ceremony. I'd like to begin with a benediction. Would you do me the honor?
REVEREND
Well, I'm not familiar with any specific hotel blessings, but I'm sure the good book will offer something.
HANK
I'm gonna christen our place, too, when it's done. Break a bottle 'a champagne right on it.
MR. LODGE
Your place, sir?
PRESTON
Yes, Father, Mr. Lawson and Mr. Slicker here are building a modest little flophouse behind the saloon.
JAKE
It's a social club and deluxe resort.
(to Mr. Lodge)
And I'm Mayor Slicker, sir.
MR. LODGE
Mayor...? Didn't you write that...
(turns to Preston)
You were running for that office?
Preston blanches.
JAKE
He did and he lost. To me.
Mr. Lodge gapes at Jake, finding this hard to digest.
INT. CLINIC - DAY TWO 26
Andrew packs, putting instruments in his medical bag and textbooks in a box. Mike busies herself, trying not to watch. Their eyes meet. They trade awkward smiles.
ANDREW
Well. I think that's everything.
(CONTINUED)
21.
CONTINUED: 26
MIKE
Not quite...
Andrew looks puzzled as Mike hands him a small stack of files.
MIKE
They're the records of all the new patients you treated in my absence -- while I was staying home with Katie.
ANDREW
But -- these are your patients.
He holds the files toward her, but she nudges them back.
MIKE
No, I've never seen them. Not once. They've only been treated by you.
ANDREW
But I treated them here.
He tries to give her the stack again, but she's adamant.
MIKE
You used my facility, Andrew, that's true. But you're just starting out, and I think it's only fair if you continue to see them. At your clinic.
Andrew reluctantly packs the files, then looks at Mike.
ANDREW
Thank you.
MIKE
Thank you.
They stare at each other, neither knowing what to do or say next.
Andrew picks up his things. He and Mike exchange another uncomfortable smile, then he heads out.
Mike goes to her desk, sneaking a troubled, backward glance at Andrew leaving as we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
22.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
EXT. CAFE - DAY THREE 27
GRACE chops and dices on a cutting board. She's very organized and her concentration is intense.
ANTHONY comes over brightly. ROBERT E trails behind.
ANTHONY
Hey, Ma.
GRACE
(measuring ingredients)
Just a minute, Anthony. I'm real busy.
ANTHONY
You been real busy for days.
Grace glances up and registers Anthony's forlorn expression -- then Robert E's steady glare.
GRACE
Anthony, you gotta be extra patient with me this week. Preston's countin' on me makin' Thanksgivin' real special at his hotel. It's important I do a good job.
(pointedly to Robert E)
Important to all of us.
ROBERT E
And havin' Thanksgivin' here at the cafe is important to some folks, too. A tradition. Where're they s'pposed to eat if you're closed?
GRACE
They can eat at the hotel. 'Sides, I hear most folks're gonna be celebratin' at home this year.
ANTHONY
Where are we celebratin'?
Grace pauses and looks at Anthony's sweet, inquisitive face. She tries to sound enticing:
(CONTINUED)
23.
CONTINUED: 27
GRACE
We're gonna have us a banquet -- right there in the hotel's fancy kitchen.
ROBERT E
The kitchen? Like we was servants?
GRACE
Robert E, you know what Preston's payin' me. Servants? We're makin' more money in one day there'n I could make here'n three Thanksgivin's.
(rationalizing)
The kitchen's fine... we got our future to worry about, not where we're eatin' a plate of turkey.
Grace smiles at Anthony, then gets back to work. Anthony sighs. Robert E puts a reassuring hand on his shoulder.
EXT. SPRINGS CHATEAU HOTEL - ANDREW'S CLINIC - DAY THREE 28
Andrew comes out of his office, taking account of the boxes, medical furniture and supplies waiting to be moved in from the porch.
Preston approaches.
PRESTON
Well, I see that you're settling in.
ANDREW
I'm still waiting for a few more supplies, but I'm ready to start work.
PRESTON
No, you're not.
Andrew looks puzzled, concerned.
PRESTON
Not until you hang this...
Preston smiles and surprises Andrew, presenting him with a shingle engraved with "Andrew Cook, M. D."
ANDREW
(touched)
Thank you, Preston. It's perfect.
(CONTINUED)
24.
CONTINUED: 28
PRESTON
(pats Andrew's shoulder)
Welcome aboard.
Preston walks away, pleased. OFF Andrew, beaming at his shingle with pride...
EXT. CLINIC - DAY THREE 29
The Reverend comes up the steps as Mike leaves the clinic.
REVEREND
(smiles and tips his hat, moving past her)
Dr. Mike.
MIKE
Can I help you, Reverend?
REVEREND
Oh, no thank you. Is Andrew in? I saw him about my throat last week.
MIKE
Andrew -- he's... already working at his own clinic.
The Reverend halts and turns back, embarrassed.
REVEREND
Oh. Well, my throat feels fine now. He just wanted me to stop by and follow up.
MIKE
Yes, you should have him take another look to be sure.
REVEREND
Well, you can --
MIKE
No, no, Andrew started your treatment --
(trying to look insistent)
He should finish it.
The Reverend assures Mike of his loyalty:
REVEREND
Just this once, I suppose.
(CONTINUED)
25.
CONTINUED: 29
Mike nods, appreciative. She watches the Reverend walk away.
MATTHEW (O.S.)
Dr. Mike...?
Mike turns. MATTHEW approaches.
MATTHEW
I'm goin' to Denver.
MIKE
What?
MATTHEW
Gotta escort a fugitive back to the jail there.
MIKE
A fugitive?
MATTHEW
The man escaped two days ago. Charlie Piper found 'im drunk, passed out in his barn.
MIKE
But you can't go to Denver today, tomorrow's Thanksgiving.
MATTHEW
I got no choice, he's s'posed to stand trial on Friday.
Mike sags -- her hopes for a perfect Thanksgiving are crumbling.
MATTHEW
I'll catch the first train back in the mornin', I promise. And I'll make sure Colleen is on board with me.
Mike nods, slightly comforted. SUDDENLY, from the street...
HORACE (O.S.)
Thief! Stop, thief!
Mike and Matthew react, then Matthew dashes around the corner...
+IN THE STREET 30
A DRIVER races a surrey up the center of town, chased by a frantic, distraught Horace.
(CONTINUED)
26.
CONTINUED: 30
HORACE
He stole my surrey!
Matthew jumps in the surrey's path. The Driver sees Matthew's badge and slows down. Matthew grabs the horse's bridle.
Preston, clipped and grim in his manner, strides over with Mr. Lodge.
PRESTON
That man didn't steal anything...
Mike, Dorothy, Loren, Jake, Hank and Robert E approach and gather curiously. Horace is upset, catching his breath.
PRESTON
He works for me.
MATTHEW
What're you talkin' about?
PRESTON
He took the surrey legitimately, on the bank's behalf.
HORACE
But it's mine.
PRESTON
The bank owns that surrey, Horace. You're six weeks late on your loan payment.
Horace looks flustered and confused. Preston hesitates, glancing at his father, who's closely watching his every move. Preston turns decisively to Horace:
PRESTON
The surrey has been repossessed.
HORACE
Repossessed? But I only got two more payments! I was short last month 'cause I sent Myra money for Samantha.
MIKE
Two more payments, Preston. Surely you could give Horace an extension.
All eyes fall on Preston, including Mr. Lodge's. Mike and the townsfolk glare beseechingly, disdainfully.
Preston wavers, then feels his father's exacting stare -- and steels his resolve.
(CONTINUED)
27.
CONTINUED: (2) 30
PRESTON
No. No exceptions. No extensions.
Everyone reacts, shocked and disgusted by Preston's attitude, but Horace straightens, recovering his pride.
HORACE
(with a strong, cold look at Preston)
Go on then. Take it.
Preston, tight-lipped, signals the driver, who snaps the reins. Preston looks over at Mr. Lodge, who gives him a curt nod of approval.
Horace turns back toward his office, head held high.
Mike takes in the scene with dismay...
INT. HOMESTEAD - NIGHT THREE 31
Sully looks up from stacking firewood as Mike arrives home, rushed, carrying a basket of groceries.
MIKE
Sorry I'm late. The clinic became so busy at the end of the day. Did you and Brian eat?
(Sully nods)
Katie?
SULLY
Fast asleep. You should have something.
MIKE
I don't have time, Sully, tomorrow's Thanksgiving. I have to start the stuffing.
(as she unpacks)
Walnuts, onions --
(stops, realizing with alarm)
Celery. I forgot to buy celery.
SULLY
It doesn't matter.
MIKE
But the recipe --
(CONTINUED)
28.
CONTINUED: 31
SULLY
No one'll notice, Michaela.
(comes over playfully, affectionately)
It'll be our secret...
Mike eases up and smiles slightly, aware of her overreaction.
MIKE
I don't know why I'm even fussing anymore. I wanted everything to be just right, but now Matthew and Colleen --
SULLY
Will be home tomorrow afternoon. Me and Brian'll go meet 'em at the station.
Sully rubs Mike's shoulders. She settles back against him, relaxing.
MIKE
You know what?
(turns to face Sully)
The stuffing can wait.
They share a smile, then kiss.
OMITTED (32-33) 33
EXT. TRAIN STATION - DAY FOUR 34
Preston, Mr. Lodge and Andrew *get out of their carriage. DRIVERS wait in two empty carriages behind them.
MR. LODGE
Remember, Preston, you want your investors to feel powerful. Important.
PRESTON
(getting a bit impatient)
Father, I think just seeing the hotel, the fruit of their investment, will make them feel important...
+ANGLE - SULLY AND BRIAN 35
as they walk across the platform. WOLF trots behind them.
29.
+ANGLE - HORACE 36
steps out of his office to meet them.
HORACE
Train's been delayed, Sully. It's stuck, a few miles past Monument.
Before Sully can respond, Preston interrupts, having overheard. He approaches with his father and Andrew.
PRESTON
Stuck? What are you talking about?
Horace ignores Preston, directing his news to Sully and Brian.
HORACE
Just got word, there was a terrible storm. Trees and branches, fallin' all over, blockin' the tracks.
PRESTON
It can't be. Not today.
HORACE
(scowls at Preston)
It is. Wire said it was rainin' and blowin' so hard, homes and buildin's were gettin' torn up...
(to Sully)
It'll take some time till they clear off the tracks.
Sully considers this as Andrew looks at Preston:
ANDREW
The ceremony. Should we postpone?
Preston glances at Mr. Lodge.
PRESTON
(trying to remain undaunted)
The tracks will be cleared. We'll wait.
Mr. Lodge nods, approving. Sully turns to Brian:
SULLY
Got a feelin' we'll be waitin' a long time. Let's go borrow a couple more horses from Robert E. Ride out to pick up Matthew and Colleen.
(CONTINUED)
30.
CONTINUED: 36
Brian agrees and leaves with Sully. OFF Preston, determined not to be thrown by this change of events.
INT. HOMESTEAD - DAY FOUR 37
Mike carries Katie over to the beautifully prepared Thanksgiving table. She smiles proudly, showing the baby:
MIKE
There now, isn't that pretty? Your very first Thanksgiving...
Mike sits with Katie. She admires her work for a few moments. The clock ticks, exaggerating the quiet. Mike glances at the time, then looks around at the empty chairs. Her smile slips a bit. She tells Katie, reassuring herself:
MIKE
Your father and your brothers and sister will be home very soon... the whole family...
Suddenly, the wind whistles in and blows out the candles on the table.
EXT. HOMESTEAD - MOMENTS LATER - DAY FOUR 38
Mike walks away from the house, holding Katie. She stops and stares down the road, watching and waiting, her hair and dress blowing in a chilly breeze.
+MIKE'S POV 39
The road is empty. No one in sight.
+MIKE 40
hears some low, rumbling thunder. She looks up.
+MIKE'S POV 41
Dark clouds roll across the sky.
31.
+MIKE 42
Shivers and pulls Katie closer. Getting anxious, she turns and hurries back inside as we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
32.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
EXT. SPRINGS CHATEAU HOTEL - DAY FOUR 43
CLOSE ON a parasol popping open, then lifted toward an overcast sky. PULL BACK on the LADY and her ESCORT as they stroll amongst a festive, impressed CROWD.
A colorful banner is strung over the hotel's entrance -- "Grand Opening -- Springs Chateau and Health Resort." Streamers are laced around the columns. Balloons are tied to the railings.
A small brass BAND plays a spirited tune on the porch.
+ANGLE - THE REVEREND 44
as he rehearses his speech, reading from a Bible:
REVEREND
"The stranger did not lodge in the street: but I opened my doors to the traveler..."
The Reverend looks up to find Loren watching him.
REVEREND
Job. 31:32.
LOREN
I knew that.
+ANGLE - HANK AND JAKE 45
They look around covetously at the good-sized crowd.
JAKE
Ain't much of a turn-out.
HANK
(smirks at him)
C'mon, who ya kiddin', Jake? All these folks've come out here -- on Thanksgivin'? When it looks like rain? It's time for a little publicity...
Jake watches curiously as Hank approaches a GROUP OF MEN.
HANK
Hey there, fellas -- this place sure turned out nice 'n pretty...
(CONTINUED)
33.
CONTINUED: 45
The men agree. Jake knits his brow -- why the hell is Hank promoting Preston's place? But Hank continues, to the men:
HANK
Thing is, ya take away the Hot Springs and whad'ya got? Some fancy new building in the middle of nowheres.
Jake grins to himself, catching on. He chimes in:
JAKE
Yeah, and how long's a man expected to sit soakin' in boilin' water anyways?
HANK
Exactly. Now, if you're lookin' for a little excitement...
(leans in, on the sly)
Me and my partner here's fixin' up a more "friendly" establishment right in the center of town...
The men listen, their interest piqued.
+ANGLE - ROBERT E AND ANTHONY 46
They ride up to the side entrance. Their wagon is loaded with boxes.
+GRACE 47
Rushes out of the hotel to greet them, anxiously wiping her hands on her apron.
ANTHONY
(smiling)
Hey, Ma --
GRACE
(not answering, distracted)
Where ya been, Robert E? You got all my platters. My cakes, puddin's, and pies...
Anthony droops, neglected. Robert E notices. Grace doesn't.
(CONTINUED)
34.
CONTINUED: 47
ROBERT E
First sign 'a rain, Anthony made me stop 'n make sure all your cakes and pies was covered. He didn't want anythin' to happen to 'em.
Grace pauses. She looks contritely, gratefully, at Anthony.
GRACE
How'm I so lucky to have such a thoughtful boy?
Anthony smiles, feeling better. There's a growl of THUNDER.
ROBERT E
(glancing up)
Gotta hurry. Go back for the next load.
+ANGLE - PRESTON, MR. LODGE AND ANDREW 48
Riding their* carriage up to the hotel, stopping near Jake, Hank, Loren, and the Reverend, who all look puzzled.
JAKE
Where's all your high-class investors?
PRESTON
Their train was detained.
ANDREW
There was a big storm.
Everyone glances up at the rumbling sky. Preston is annoyed.
PRESTON
It's not coming here. I've sent some carriages out to pick up my investors. We'll begin as soon as they return -- then it's straight back to my plan.
The THUNDER sounds again, closer. Hank holds out his hand, feeling raindrops, glancing up.
HANK
I think your plan's about to change.
OFF Preston's irritated look...
35.
EXT. WOODS - DAY FOUR 49
Sully and Brian stop their horses with Wolf and two tethered horses trailing behind. The surrounding branches sway in the wind. The sky is dark and foreboding.
SULLY
Better turn back, Brian. Looks like that storm's comin' our way.
BRIAN
(worried)
But Matthew and Colleen...
SULLY
They'll be safe, the storm already passed by 'em. But your ma's home alone with Katie, and it's gonna be dark soon.
Brian nods. THUNDER cracks.
SULLY
Let's go --
They turn and ride off at a gallop.
OMITTED (50) 50
INT. HOMESTEAD - NIGHT FOUR 51
Trying to ignore the howling wind outside, Mike bastes the turkey on top of the oven. She samples a small piece.
MIKE
Delicious.
She smiles over at Katie, who's propped in a chair.
MIKE
You'll have to take my word for it.
Ominous shadows of branches bending in the wind fill the room.
Mike brightens a lantern. She goes to the window and looks out, her brow furrowing with concern.
LIGHTNING flashes. A broken branch smacks against the glass.
Mike jumps back, startled. She picks up Katie and holds her close, sweetly humming to soothe the both of them.
35A.
EXT. SPRINGS CHATEAU HOTEL - NIGHT FOUR 52
The balloons tied to the railing blow about wildly.
(CONTINUED)
36.
CONTINUED: 52
Preston is positioned atop the main steps with Mr. Lodge.
MR. LODGE
Your investors are not coming, Preston. You'd best move things along.
PRESTON
Yes, sir.
Preston signals the band to stop. The restless crowd converges.
PRESTON
Thank you, everyone, for your patience. And welcome -- to the Grand Opening of my Springs Chateau and Health Resort --
THUNDER cracks. The crowd looks agitated, wanting in. Preston's smile wavers.
PRESTON
Reverend?
The Reverend runs up, holding his hat down.
REVEREND
Perhaps we should move the ceremony inside...
Preston hesitates, but it STARTS TO POUR.
REVEREND
Perhaps we should move inside -- now.
Before Preston can respond, the crowd pushes past him and [scrambles into the hotel.
+OMITTED (53) 52A
+BY THE] SIDE ENTRANCE 54
Grace, Robert E, and Anthony work in the downpour, unloading the last platters of food from the wagon.
(CONTINUED)
37.
CONTINUED: 54
LIGHTNING flashes, followed by THUNDER. Robert E prods Anthony toward the hotel, then turns back to Grace.
ROBERT E
