INT. MARIAH'S HOUSE - DAY
Mekhi is asleep. Mariah walks in shaking him.
MARIAH- Khi you gotta get up.
Mekhi begins to open his eyes.
MEKHI-(yawning) what happened?
MARIAH- My Dad just called him and my mom just landed.
MEKHI- Okay your parents love me.
MARIAH- Yes as friends not when you're half naked in my bed.
MEKHI- yeah that is nota good look.
Mariah laughs. Mekhi gets up.
MARIAH- you're gonna have to face your parents sometime.
MEKHI- I can't.
MARIAH- you can. I'll even come with you.
Mekhi looks at her.
MEKHI- why are you being so nice to me? I've been so over the place I don't deserve it.
MARIAH- no matter what state me and you are in I'm gonna always be there for you. You would do the same for me which you have.
MEKHI- in a heart beat.
Mariah has a half smile.
MEKHI- I gotta be honest....I don't know what's supposed to happen next.
MARIAH- As far as?
MEKHI- my life....I just feel a bit lost.
MARIAH- what are your plans for New Year's Eve?
MEKHI- looks like now I'll be at a hotel or something. I know all my friends are probably coupled up.
MARIAH- or we could go hang out at your cabin and talk some more.
MEKHI- You don't have to do that.
MARIAH- trust it's more for me than you no way I'm spending New Year's Eve home with my parents.
MEKHI- so your motives are completely selfish?
Mariah laughs.
MARIAH- completely.
Mekhi laughs.
MEKHI-Okay deal.
INT. DAVIS HOUSE - DAY
Taylor is walking downstairs.
TAYLOR- Kent you're sick.
Kent follows her.
KENT- I'm not (sneezes) sick.
A few seconds letter Taylor screams.
KENT- T?
INT. DAVIS HOUSE - KITCHEN - MOMENTS LATER
Kent rushes in the kitchen and Jimmy stands drinking out the bottle of orange juice.
KENT- what the hell are you doing here?
JIMMY- is that anyway to talk to your favorite uncle?
Kent walks over and snatches the orange juice.
KENT- What do you want Jimmy? And how did you get in here?
Jimmy smiles.
JIMMY- Old Key same house.
KENT- What do you want? I'm not giving you any money.
JIMMY- I just need a place to stay for a while.
KENT- oh hell no. Here?
JIMMY- Why not?
KENT- last time you needed a place to stay and I gave you one you were on the run from the police.
JIMMY- that was complicated.
TAYLOR- you left him alone to grieve his father's death because you weren't left any money.
Jimmy smiles.
JIMMY- aww that's cute she really loves you.
Taylor rolls her eyes.
KENT- you gotta go.
JIMMY- Look at the end of the day we're family don't be like this.
KENT- I'll give you two thousand if you just go.
Kent sneezes.
TAYLOR-(shocked) Kent.
JIMMY- Deal....i knew you would come through...I'll be outside.
Jimmy walks out of the kitchen.
TAYLOR- seriously?
KENT- he wasn't gonna leave.
TAYLOR- so you just give him free money?
KENT- if I finally admit I'm sick will you let me slide?
TAYLOR- can we go away this weekend and I take care of you?
Kent smiles.
KENT- if that's my punishment-
TAYLOR- don't push it.
Kent laughs.
INT. TAVONS APARTMENT- DAY
Zhuri is alseep and Tavon is on his computer. Zhuri turns on and tries to lay on him.
ZHURI- what are you doing?
TAVON- I'm looking over this case.
ZHURI- at seven am?!
Tavon laughs.
TAVON- I have to be at my internship at nine.
ZHURI- wait you have to go today? It's New Year's Eve.
TAVON- Yeah....
ZHURI- why did you say yeah like that?
TAVON- what you mean?
ZHURI- oh my God you're choosing to work aren't you?
TAVON- yes but-
ZHURI- Tavon it's New Year's Eve come on we should be doing something.
TAVON- we can still do something tonight I promise but your Dad has this huge sexual assault case and I want to learn more about it and he said I can sit in. And I just wanna know if I could out more about it maybe I can help T.
ZHURI- you think it could lead to that?
TAVON- she's been getting a lot of backlash since releasing that article and Christopher has been denying it so I don't know but I just want to know just in case.
Zhuri kisses him.
ZHURI- that's very sweet...but you would of worked anyway your obsessed.
TAVON- no I'm not?
Zhuri laughs.
ZHURI- You are it's cute my little lawyer.
TAVON- big Lawyer.
Zhuri laughs.
ZHURI- oh my bad.
TAVON-(laughing) I'm playing....actually you know what?
ZHURI- what?
TAVON- get dressed.
Zhuri smiles.
ZHURI- Oooh where we going?
TAVON- you'll see.
INT. MORGANS APARTMENT- DAY
Neal and Morgan are cuddled on the couch sharing one blanking watching tv. Neal kisses her neck.
MORGAN- can you pay attention.
NEAL- I don't care about vampires.
MORGAN- yeah like I care about super hero's.
NEAL- oh please you do now.
Morgan laughs.
MORGAN- no I don't.
NEAL- but you do.
MORGAN- nope.
Neal kisses her neck.
MORGAN- Neal.
NEAL- ain't that what the vampires be doing?
Morgan laughs and then kisses him.
MORGAN- you really don't like it?
NEAL- nah I'm playing it's cool if you like I like it.
MORGAN- I like whatever you like.
Neal smiles and kisses her.
NEAL- let's like whatever I like (kisses her) in the cabins far far (kisses her) away from here.
MORGAN- I can pack like yesterday.
Neal laughs.
INT. MEKHIS CABIN - DAY
Kent sits on the couch he's in blanket. He sneezes.
KENT- T I'm ready for some tender love and T.
TAYLOR-(o.s) I'm coming!
Taylor enters carrying soup and wearing a sexy nurse outfit. Kent eyes widened.
KENT- Oh My God.
TAYLOR- Nurse Davis is here my poor baby.
Taylor places the soup down on the coffee table and sits next to him.
KENT- I can't believe I got sick.
TAYLOR- you wanna be playing in the snow that was your other side coming out.
Kent squints his eyes at her. Taylor laughs.
TAYLOR- okay I'm sorry I'm sorry.
Taylor kisses him.
KENT- I don't want you get sick.
TAYLOR- I'll be okay.
Taylor sits on top of him and begins to kiss him again UNTIL Mekhi Mariah Morgan Neal Tavon and Zhuri all entering arguing.
Kent and Taylor looked shocked.
TAYLOR-what are yall doing here?!
NEAL- no what are you doing here?
TAVON-and dressed like that.
Taylor rolls her eyes.
TAYLOR-will y'all grow up.
MEKHI- so nobody was going to tell me they were going to be here?
They all begin to look around around at each other.
KENT-Well to be fair you said-
He begins to cough. Everyone except Taylor steps back.
EVERYONE EXCEPT KENT AND TAYLOR-Damn?
KENT-(weakly) fuck yall.
TAYLOR-I got you, to be fair you said we could all come up here anytime you want so.
Mekhi nods.
MEKHI-that's true.
MORGAN-I guess we all had the same idea in mind.
Taylor laughs.
TAYLOR- Yeah.
NEAL- Well how about we make this a new years eve party.
MEKHI-I'm actually cool with that.
TAVON-I can pick up some stuff on my way back.
TAYLOR-where are you going?
TAVON- I have this trial thing.
ZHURI-(mocking him) I have this trial thing.
Tavon laughs.
TAVON-I love you too.
Zhuri smiles and kisses him.
NEAL-Aww. (to Morgan) now kiss me.
MORGAN- No.
Everyone laughs.
TAVON-Ard I'll see you later.
Tavon leaves.
TAYLOR-(to Kent) we should go upstairs so you can get some rest and I can change.
NEAL- and then you're coming back right?
MORGAN-Will you leave her alone?
NEAL-What?
MORGAN-How about we go unpack.
MARIAH- Im gonna go shower.
Mariah walks upstairs.
MORGAN-(to Mekhi)I need the tea on that.
Mekhi laughs.
MEKHI-it's not like that. It's long story actually it wasn't really planned.
NEAL- do y'all ever think about how if one thing didn' t go as planned how different your life could be?
They all look at each other.
INT. UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA - DORMS - (TAYLOR'S DAY DREAM)
Taylor is on the phone and walking towards the door.
TAYLOR- I'm coming now.
When Taylor arrives to the door it's Justin standing with a gift. Taylor lets him in.
TAYLOR- what's this?
JUSTIN- it's your anniversary gift.
Taylor freezes a little she didn't remember.
TAYLOR- That's today?
Justin shakes his head.
JUSTIN- seriously?
TAYLOR- Im sorry I've been so busy and you know tonight I have that interview with Kent.
JUSTIN-you're interviewing Kent? and at night...why?
TAYLOR- that's the only time we were both free...it's not like that.
JUSTIN-so you say.
TAYLOR-Kent liked me in junior year and I choose you that's all it is and all it will ever be.
Justin hands her the gift.
JUSTIN-let me know when you're Taylor.
Taylor feels bad.
TAYLOR-Justin.
INT. UCLA BROADCASTING ROOM - NIGHT
Taylor is sitting waiting she looks pissed. Kent walks in nonchalantly.
TAYLOR- you're fifteen minutes late!
KENT- that's actually not that bad I thought it was worse.
Taylor rolls her eyes.
TAYLOR-still a self centered asshole.
Kent smiles.
KENT- and you're still beautiful as ever.
Taylor tries not to blush.
TAYLOR- can we just start?
KENT- whatever you want.
TAYLOR-so since's it's the end of the semester are you still going into the draft?
Kent stares at her.
TAYLOR-What? Why are you looking at me like that?
KENT-your eyes are like...wow.
TAYLOR-Im trying to interview this guy and he's talking about my eyes.
KENT- Im sorry I find you really attractive....do you find me attractive?
Taylor doesn't flinch.
TAYLOR- I don't.
Kent smiles.
KENT- yes you do.
TAYLOR...you know what, Justin was right.
Kent laughs.
KENT-Justin? he still talking about me? He thinks about that kiss more you do huh?
TAYLOR-I don't think about that kiss.
KENT- aww you're blushing.
TAYLOR-shut up...Im not the kiss wasn't all that. The only person who obesses over you is you.
Kent smiles.
KENT-sure sweetheart....but listen to this....truth is I am entering the draft and rumor has it The Spurs have the top pick...so that's probably where I'll be landing.
Taylor types this down.
KENT-but I want you to know something.
Taylor continues to type.
KENT-Whenever you realize you deserve more than Justin and you're ready to be loved the correct way...I have big plans for you Taylor Johnson.
Taylor looks at him.
TAYLOR-Well I need you let those plans go. Im with Justin in fact today is our anniversary.
Kent burst into laughs.
KENT- Im sorry it's your anniversary and you're here with me? Way to keep the love alive I guess.
TAYLOR- This is my job and what would you know about love?
KENT- you right I don't know anything...I'm just waiting for you to teach me.
Taylor looks at him and quickly closes her laptop and they begin to kiss.
INT. MEKHI'S CABIN - BED ROOM - CURRENT TIME
Taylor comes out of the bathroom now changed into sweats.
Kent has fallen asleep. She smiles at him and then lays next to him.
TAYLOR- it's always been you Kent Davis, (hugging him)I would choose you over and over again.
Kent sneezes. Taylor moves her head back.
TAYLOR- Okay maybe not.
INT. MEKHI'S CABIN - KITCHEN - SAME TIME
Morgan is making hot chocolate and begins to daydream.
INT. NEW YORK CONDO - MORGANS WHAT IF DREAM
WHAT IF MORGAN NEVER BROKE UP WITH DESMOND:
Desmond enters with flowers.
DESMOND- Morgan Im home.
Morgan enters from upstairs.
MORGAN- I missed you.
DESMOND-did you?
Morgan kisses him.
MORGAN- let's go upstairs and I can show you.
DESMOND- actually I need to talk to you first.
MORGAN-about what? is it about my broadway schedule?
DESMOND-Yeah it's actually..
Morgan looks at him confused.
MORGAN-what's wrong?
DESMOND-I got cut from the knicks.
MORGAN-What?!
DESMOND- So I'm able to come with you on tour.
Desmond smiles.
DESMOND- That's good right you was complaining about not spending time together.
Morgan looks disgusted.
MORGAN- you're telling me you just got cut from a a team you just wanna go on tour with me? Everyday for four months?
DESMOND- (confused)I'm missing the issue?
MORGAN-I can't think about this right now ...I need some air.
Morgan grabs her car keys off the nightstand.
DESMOND- Morgan.
Morgan leaves.
INT. GROCERY STORE - MOMENTS LATER
Morgan is walking down the aisle and her eyes widen when she spots a familiar face.
NEAL-(O.S) Come on I promise as soon as we leave here we can go to Lego Land.
YOUNG GIRL- promise?
Neal laughs.
NEAL- Yes.
MORGAN- Neal Carter?
Neal looks shocked.
NEAL- Morgan?
MORGAN- I knew that was you. Wow it's been a while.
NEAL- it has. How are you?
MORGAN- I'm doing good. How about yourself?
NEAL- I'm good....so you're still into acting or?
MORGAN- Not really like I use to I can't believe you even remember that.
Neal laughs putting his head down a little and then lifting it back up looking at her.
NEAL- I never got to tell you but I had a really big crush on you in high school.
Morgan smirks.
MORGAN- I knew.
Neal laughs nervously.
NEAL- oh...
MORGAN- I just was so wrapped up in my myself and I thought I was with who I was supposed to be with so.
NEAL- how did that work out for you?
MORGAN- I really don't know.
They look at each other for a moment.
The young girl pulls on Neal's hand.
YOUNG GIRL- come on.
Neal laughs.
MORGAN-She's cute...she's yours?
NEAL- oh no...God Daughter Niece whatever we feel like it that day.
Morgan laughs.
MORGAN- well I'll guess I'll see you again in another five years.
Neal laughs. Morgan starts to leave.
MORGAN- Neal what are you doing after Lego land?
YOUNG GIRL- or you could come with us?
Neal and Morgan smile at each other.
EXT/INT. NEALS CAR - NIGHT
Neal is driving Morgan sits in the passenger seat holding a stuffed bear.
MORGAN- so would this count as our first date?
NEAL- No. our first date will be much better than this.
Neal stops at a red light. Morgan kisses him. Neal is surprised.
MORGAN- don't keep my waiting five years for it.
Neal laughs.
NEAL- Do you have to be anywhere anytime soon?
MORGAN- Nope.
Morgan smiles holding the hair tightly.
INT. MEKHIS CABIN - CURRENT TIME
Morgan goes over to Neal who's starting a fire she watches him for a while.
MORGAN- Neal we should go back to build a bear before we go to college.
Neal turns around and looks at her.
NEAL- Really?
MORGAN- Yeah so when I miss you I can hug the bear and it says angel Face.
NEAL- aww you really love me it's so cute.
Morgan hits him.
MORGAN- shut up.
Neal hugs her and kisses her cheek.
NEAL- I love you too....only day left in 2023...I moved to Boston...my Dad got my mom and brother's dad killed. I fainted on the court and-
Morgan covers his mouth.
MORGAN- and I'll be standing next to you. Let's focus on the good stuff.
Neal smiles and kisses her.
INT. NEALS CONDO - NEALS DAY DREAM
Kent Neal and Tavon sit in the living in the middle of talking.
KENT- I asked you before if you don't want me to go I won't go.
NEAL- that's selfish...I won't do that.
TAVON- if there is any time you can be selfish it's now. I mean Morgan marrying Cameron. You have every right to feel a way.
NEAL- I mean I do feel a way but I was the one who couldn't forgive her for being engaged to Desmond when she came back that summer.
KENT- so what are you gonna go?
NEAL- What do you mean?
KENT- You gonna be okay with living the rest of your life not telling her how you really feel?
NEAL- she gets married tomorrow.
KENT- That's tomorrow, what about tonight?
Neal looks at him and then stands up and grabs a pair of keys and leaves.
KENT- Bro I didn't say take my car.
TAVON- you fell right into that.
INT. MORGANS HOUSE - MOMENTS LATER
Morgan is pining up her hair when she hears a knock at her window. She walks over to open it and it's Neal.
MORGAN- oh hell no...Neal what are you doing here? And you can't use the door?
NEAL- I thought this would be romantic that was before I remembered I'm scared of heights.
Morgan helps him inside.
MORGAN- why are you trying to be romantic?
NEAL- because I still love you.
Morgan looks at him can't believe he's saying this.
NEAL- I never stopped loving you and I was being stubborn when we were kids and I'm sorry for that but you can't marry him. Be with me...you should marry me.
MORGAN- you can't be serious...you waited all this time to do this now the night before my wedding.
NEAL- I'm sorry.
MORGAN- no you're not.
NEAL- you're right I'm not because I don't think you should marry him.
Neal pulls out a ring.
NEAL-I think you should marry me....tonight.
MORGAN- tonight?
NEAL- we can go right now. Tell me you don't want to. And I'll go and I'll even wish you two the best.
MORGAN- when did you buy that ring?
NEAL- after we graduated. I thought we would be back together by then....I should have said something and I'm sorry.
MORGAN- you are so crazy Neal Carter....but I love you. Always have, always will.
Morgan kisses him.
MORGAN- let's go get married.
Neal smiles and picks her up.
INT. MEKHI'S PARENTS CABIN - CURRENT TIME
NEAL- do you think I'm crazy?
MORGAN- Yeah but I love you anyway.
Neal laughs. Morgan kisses him.
INT. MEKHI'S PARENTS CABIN - BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Taylor has now fallen asleep next to Kent. He wakes up and looks over at her holding her tighter and he falls back to sleep.
INT. KENTS APARTMENT- KENTS DREAM
TAYLOR- (panicking) K...I'm pregnant. The test says I'm pregnant.
Kent tries to comfort her.
KENT- Hey it's okay just relax. It's gonna be okay I promise.
TAYLOR- What if I want to keep the baby...I mean we're not ready and-
KENT- We'll figure it out.
Kent puts his arms around her.
KENT- I promise.
INT. HOSPITAL - NINE MONTHS LATER
Taylor is in labor. Kent is holding her hand supporting her.
KENT- you're doing amazing baby. It's almost over.
Taylor continues to push.
DOCTOR- It's a boy.
KENT- Let's go! I knew it.
The doctor hands him to Taylor. Kent kisses her. Taylor begins to cry.
TAYLOR- he looks just like you.
Kent smiles at the baby.
KENT- Kent Davis Jr.
INT. KENTS AND TAYLORS APARTMENT- A FEW MONTHS LATER
Kent is rocking the baby. Taylor is on the phone.
TAYLOR- that was the apartment people the apartment should be ready by Friday.
KENT- T you sure about this?
TAYLOR- Yeah I can take a year off while you're in school stay home with Kent JR and then once you're drafted I can go enroll back in school.
KENT- you know you don't have to take time off.
Taylor takes the baby.
TAYLOR- and miss out things from this handsome face no way.
Taylor kisses the baby.
TAYLOR- I'm happy. Trust me.
Kent watches her as she plays with Kent JR.
EXT. KENT AND TAYLORS BACK YARD - TEN YEARS LATER
Kent and Kent JR are practicing basketball in the backyard.
KENT- You size your man up by crossing ball through your legs and then what?
KENT JR- pretend I'm going to my right side but I'll bring the ball back through my legs again and pretend I'm going to attack my left again
KENT- and spin and then.
Kent Jr makes the shot.
KENT-Good job.
Kent gives him a high five.
KENT- you wanna take a break?
KENT JR- No I'm okay. We can go again.
KENT- you sure?
KENT JR- yeah unless you tired old man.
Kent laughs.
KENT- old man huh?
Kent picks him up.
KENT JR-(laughing) put me down.
TAYLOR- Both of you stop acting crazy and come eat.
Kent and Kent Jr both look at each other and then they run and jump on Taylor.
KENT JR- I really have the best parents ever.
Kent and Taylor smile at him.
INT. GRADUATION CEREMONY- YEARS LATER
Kent and Taylor sit in the crowd proudly as Kent Davis Jr is graduating from college. A Duke University banner hangs in the back of him as he gives his valedictorian speech.
KENT DAVIS JR- When I was born everyone thought because my parents were so young that they wouldn't be ready to raise me.....(he holds up his diploma) I guess what I'm trying to say is we proved a bunch of people off.
The crowd laughs.
KENT DAVIS JR- I watched both my parents give a hundred percent into me to make sure I'm able to achieve anything that I could possibly want. A lot of people were confused when they found out I didn't want to play basketball like my Dad but instead wanted to become a writer like my Dad, he never once made me feel like he was ashamed of it but instead like he was my biggest fan.
Kent smiles.
KENT DAVIS JR- I hope I can continue doing that, making him proud....thank you.
The crowd cheers.
Kent and Taylor stand up and clap.
INT. MEKHI'S PARENTS CABIN - CURRENT TIME
TAYLOR- babe you're crying in your sleep.
KENT-(waking up) huh?
TAYLOR- what were you dreaming about?
Taylor wipes his face.
KENT- you ever think about what could have been if we had our baby?
TAYLOR- I try not to think about it because I feel so sad but-
KENT- no I get it.
Kent hugs her.
TAYLOR- you dreamed about them?
KENT- yeah it was a boy...our boy.
Taylor hugs him.
INT. LIVING ROOM - SAME TIME
Zhuri sits by herself in the living room on her phone.
ZHURI TEXT MESSAGE: is it over yet?
TAVON TEXT MESSAGE: 💀 Z it hasn't even started yet.
ZHURI TEXT MESSAGE: 🙄
TAVON TEXT MESSAGE: I miss you too cry baby 😘
Zhuri laughs and then she begins to day dream.
EXT. FRONT OF ZHURI'S HOUSE - ZHURI'S DAY DREAM
Zhuri arrives home and picks up her stack of mail. She then enters the house.
INT.ZHURI'S HOUSE - MOMENTS LATER
Zhuri is eating carrots and going through her mail. It's a few different letters from Tavon.
Letter 1:
Dear Z. I don't even know if you're gonna get this I asked Morgan for your address but she said she didn't know if she should give it to me without talking to your first but I kept asking so I'm sure she probably gave me the wrong one just to shut up. But anyway I just wanted to say I know it's been a while since we talked and I'm just wondering how you're doing. Last I heard you were in Africa. And that it's hard to get in touch with you so that's why I'm trying this. I miss you and I hope the next time you're home you can give me a call.
Tae.
Letter 2: Dear Z, this is kinda weird even writing you letters but I don't know it's better than some voice mail I guess. I should probably be working on my closing statements for this case right now but instead I'd rather be talking to you. Taylor told me you visited Egypt not that long ago. I think that's amazing but she said you almost got lost looking for some vegan forno chips? Seriously Z? Like I told you before just cross over to the other side and you won't have to hunt certain things down. Anyway I tried those chips and they were actually good. Hopefully when you back in town we can share them. I really do hope you're happy right now.
Tae.
Letter 3: dear Zhuri so I've written you two letters and haven't heard back anything yet. Which is understandable I know we have talked since high school and that was a tough time so I get it. I heard you were dating some guy named Silas you met over seas. Really Z? Silas? He probably doesn't wear deodorant and wears see through shirts and only eats leafs. I can't see you with a guy like that but I also didn't think I would have the chance with you either so. Anyway. I miss you.
Tae.
Zhuri laughs a little and then grabs her keys and leaves back out.
INT. FRONT OF TAVONS APARTMENT - NIGHT
Zhuri knocks on the door and Tavon answers it.
TAVON- Z? What are you doing here?
ZHURI- I just got back in town and I got your letters and I figured this was better than writing you back.
TAVON- you just got in town hopped on a flight to just to see me?
ZHURI- I hopped on a flight just to do this.
Zhuri kisses him.
ZHURI- I missed you too and I never stopped loving you....I thought we were done after high school so I tried to stay away as much as possible, because it's so hard hearing about how you're doing without finding out for myself.
TAVON- Z you're the first person I want to share everything with....shit you're the only person I ever thought about creating a life with.
ZHURI- really?
Tavon grabs her face moving her hair out of the way and kisses her.
TAVON- really.
Zhuri smiles.
ZHURI- oh and I want my chips.
Tavon laughs and then kisses her again.
INT. MEKHIS CABIN - CURRENT TIME
ZHURI- Mekhi, does your parents have some pen and paper around here?!
MARIAH- he left out said he'll be right back.
ZHURI- Oh damn so Im yelling for nothing.
Mariah laughs.
MARIAH- I think I know where some things are though.
Mariah nods her head for Zhuri to follow her.
ZHURI- so how bad has it been for Mekhi?
MARIAH- he hasn't been home to talk to face his parents...he's been hiding out at my house.
ZHURI- oh wow that sucks.
MARIAH- I feel so bad for him...you can tell he's really hurt by it.
ZHURI- as he should be his parents are terrible for that.
Mariah grabs pencils and paper out of a draw and hands it to Zhuri.
MARIAH- so what are you about to write?
ZHURI- some love letters well notes to my boyfriend for him to read when he comes back.
INT.A QUIET GRACE RESTAURANT- DAY
Reggie is putting up decorations and Tammie enters with a bottle of vodka.
TAMMIE- Happy Anniversary.
REGGIE- What?
TAMMIE- your restaurant turns thirty today, you didn't think I forgot.
REGGIE- didn't think you cared.
TAMMIE- I don't really. But I'm in therapy now and apart of that is me learning how to forgive and also maybe ask for forgiveness.
Tammie looks at him.
REGGIE- no way you actually going forgive me for what I did? We've done way too much each other to get to forgiveness.
Tammie puts the bottle down on his counter.
TAMMIE- just a small start.
Tammie then turns to leave. Reggie watches her and takes the bottle to his office.
INT. COURTHOUSE CONFERENCE ROOM - LATER THAT DAY
Marvin slaps down a piece of paper.
MARVIN- Wire transfer from your account in the
amount of five thousand dollars.
We reveal that Marvin is standing in front of Mr. Hunt and his defense counsel. Tavon sits quietly at the table along with another lawyer and Nancy their client. Marvin slaps down another piece of paper.
MARVIN- Phone records proving multiple contacts
with Joanna Webster prior to her testimony.
Another document.
MARVIN- An affidavit stating you paid Ms. Webster
to falsely testify...Mr. Hunt, harassment is a civil
violation, for which you were being sued. Witness tampering is a crime, for which you will go to prison.
Marvin gathers up his pieces of paper.
MARVIN- And I guarantee you're going to learn
more about the act of unwanted sexual advances than you ever thought possible.
MR. HUNT- You think this is gonna intimidate me?!
Even if this evidence was credible, who are you going to get to prosecute me for some piss-ant witness tampering charge?
Marvin smiles.
MARVIN- I graduated law school Maryland's current U.S. Attorney. I think he might be interested in pursuing a case like this.
MR.HUNT- No way.
MARVIN- I was the best man at his wedding.
MR.HUNT- you're bluffing.
Marvin grabs a picture and puts them in front of Mr. Hunt.
MARVIN- Here's us at graduation. He's sad cause he just found out I outranked him. Here's one with the District Attorney. I wouldn't show him this case, though. He'd push for the death penalty. Here's one of us at a bachelor party. It was lame, no strippers. But he can't put guys like you away for sexual harassment then go to strip clubs now, can he?
MR.HUNT- what do you want?
Marvin looks at Nancy, then addresses Mr. Hunt.
MARVIN- A statement admitting what you did, your
resignation, and a guarantee you will obtain treatment before working again.
Mr. Hunt nods his head yes.
MARVIN- And Nancy gets reinstated with back pay,
a raise, and damages in the amount of four years tuition for her son at the most expensive university in the country.
DEFENSE COUNSEL- are we done?
MARVIN- yes we're done.
Defense counsel and Mr. Hunt exit. Nancy turns to Marvin.
NANCY-This is everything I wanted.
Tavon smiles as Nancy hugs Marvin.
MARVIN- my pleasure.
Nancy shakes Marvin's hand. Harvey and Mike exit the room...
INT. TAVON'S APARTMENT - DAY
Theres a knock at the door and Landy answers it. It's Reggie.
LANDY-Reggie? I thought I told you.
REGGIE-it's not like that..
LANDY-whats wrong?
REGGIE- Your ex is back in town.
LANDY-What?
REGGIE- He came into the restaurant for coffee...but it looks he really wanted to send a message.
Off Landy looking at Reggie with a worried look.
EXT. STREET OUTSIDE COURTHOUSE - A LITTLE LATER
Marvin and Tavon are walking to their cars.
TAVON- I guess you were right about the who you know thing.
MARVIN- in life it's gonna be a lot of time where it will be important who you know than what you know.
Tavon nods.
MARVIN- why was this case so important to you though?
TAVON- just wanted to be sure of some things for a friend.
MARVIN- Whoa what friend?
TAVON- it's not really my place to tell you something like that.
MARVIN- I hope you're not talking about Morgan or Zhuri.
TAVON- No.
MARVIN- Okay....Taylor?
Tavon looks at him.
TAVON- again it's not my place.
Before Marvin can speak his phone begins to ring.
MARVIN- I gotta take this but this conversation isn't over...(answering) hello? Okay I'm on my way.
Tavon gets inside his car.
EXT. CONSTRUCTION SITE - DAY
Nate is getting thrown in the back of a police car.
INT. POLICE STATION - HOLDING ROOM - DAY
NATE- So y'all not gonna tell me why y'all holding me in here?
The cop walks out and Marvin walks in a huge grin like he's been waiting for this moment forever.
Nate gets a look of hatred.
MARVIN- I hope they didn't make the cuffs too tight?
NATE- why the fuck am I in here?
MARVIN- let's calm down...no need to get angry. But you're right you are squeaky clean. I'm shocked maybe even a little proud...I can say.
NATE- What the hell do you want?
MARVIN- why did you take Toya back?
NATE- What?
MARVIN- after everything she lied to you about why did you take her back?
NATE- You got me arrested to ask me about my wife?
MARVIN- I wouldn't be so happy to call someone my wife who's been lying about it our child.
NATE- I'm not talking about this with you man.
MARVIN- No say what you got to say.
NATE- I don't have shit to say....but it's a lot of shit that I want to do.
Marvin smirks.
MARVIN- That's what I like to hear.
NATE- Get me the hell out of here!
MARVIN- Don't take Toya back.
NATE- What?
MARVIN- She's gonna try and make it work with you but when she does tell her it's too late.
NATE- and why would I do that?
MARVIN- because today I didn't find anything...but lord knows what I can come up with tomorrow.
Nate looks at him. Marvin stares back with a grin.
INT. MEKHI'S HOUSE - DAY
Mekhi walks inside.
MEKHI- Mom....Dad.
MEKHI'S MOM- Khi...what are you...I didn't expect to see you home yet.
MEKHI- (confused) Why not?
MEKHI'S MOM- I thought you knew your Dad needed some time to cool off.
Mekhi's Dad begins to walk downstairs carrying a box of things.
MEKHI- is that my stuff? you're kicking me out?
MEKHI'S DAD- No, we're moving.
MEKHI- What?
MEKHI'S DAD- I knew letting you transfer to this school was a mistake.
MEKHI- Lynview had nothing to do with this if anything coming here has made me more brave then ever before.
MEKHI'S DAD- you don't know what you're talking about and if you think I'm allowing any of that crap under my roof-
MEKHI- you can't even look at me can you?
MEKHI'S MOM- Khi I know you've been staying with Mariah maybe you should just try it a few more days.
MEKHI- (to his dad) I said you can't even look at me can you?!
MEKHI'S DAD- you will not be staying under my roof.
MEKHI- well I'm eighteen now...I don't have to.
MEKHI'S MOM- now let's just hold on a second here no one is moving out.
MEKHI'S DAD- you heard the boy he's grown. So let him be a man then.
MEKHI- I will!
MEKHI'S DAD- Okay.
Mekhi starts to leave.
MEKHI'S MOM- Mekhi!...(to his Dad) don't let him go like that.
Mekhi's Dad walks into the other room. Mekhi storms out.
EXT. FRONT OF MEKHI HOUSE - MOMENTS LATER
Mekhi pulls out his cell phone and dials.
MEKHI- yeah text everyone you know tell them it's a new year's ever party tonight the wildest party to end the year.
INT.JOHNSON HOUSE - DAY
Nate knocks on the door and Toya answers. She can see he's upset.
TOYA-Nate what's wrong?
NATE- I was arrested today/
TOYA-What?
NATE- apparently you little fucking side piece has his feelings hurt and he wants to get rid of me in order to get you back.
TOYA-Nate I would never-
NATE-but you did!
Toya looks at him confused.
NATE-you started all of this....but Im telling you now...Im gonna be the one to finish it.
TOYA-(panicking) what does that mean?
INT. MEKHI'S PARENTS CABIN - NIGHT
The house is now flooding with kids and music is blasting it's a full fledged party.
MORGAN- who the hell invited all these people?
MARIAH- Mekhi is gonna lose it...I keep calling him but he's not answering.
Mekhi walks in.
MEKHI- That's because I threw it.
NEAL- What?
MEKHI- the last day of 2023. Let's go out with a bang. Where the shots at?
Mekhi walks in the kitchen.
GUY- have any of yall seen Jazmine?
MORGAN- No.
KENT-she's here?
GUY-Yeah she's my date.
KENT- Oh my guy, somebody find Jazmine for him!
Taylor laughs. and the guy walks into the living room.
MARIAH- Something must of happened with Mekhi.
KENT- I'll talk to him.
Kent goes after him.
TAYLOR- Well since it's a party party gonna on I'm about to get cute.
MORGAN- Same!
Morgan and Taylor rush upstairs.
ZHURI- where the hell is my boyfriend?
GUY- I don't know but I don't mind taking his place.
ZHURI- Yeah, no.
Zhuri goes upstairs.
INT. KITCHEN - SAME TIME
Mekhi is looking through the cabinets. Kent walks in/
KENT- you want to tell me what's going on with you?
MEKHI-What you talking about?
KENT-What happened when you left, where'd you go?
MEKHI- to talk to my parents.
KENT-oh shit how'd it go?
MEKHI- My Dad pretty much kicked me out.
Mekhi finds a bottle and begins to drink it.
KENT- What? Khi Im sorry but fuck him bro, you can stay with me.
MEKHI-I should of kept my mouth shut.
KENT- no you shouldnt have to hide who the fuck you are.
Mekhi looks at him.
KENT- I mean that from the bottom of my heart man. I don;t care who it is and who it's for. Don't hide who you are.
Kent hugs him.
MORGAN- We love who you are.
NEAL-A whole lot, even me.
Mekhi laughs.
MEKHI- it must be the end of the world for you to say that.
TAYLOR- well it is almost the end of 2023.
ZHURI- we all started this year so differently.
TAVON-(o.s) Im here! Im here!
ZHURI-Tae!
Tavon hugs her Zhuri jumps in his arms..
ZHURI- I thought you were gonna miss it.
TAVON-and miss kissing this face at mid night... no way.
Zhuri smiles.
NEAL- I don't know about yall but I think all of us standing here together going into the new year means something....I mean after everything that has happened we're all still here and still friends.
KENT- Family.
MEKHI-sandbox.
They all smile at each other.
TAYLOR- This time next year we're all going to be all over the world.
ZHURI-Wow, I haven't even realized...this could be our last new years eve all in the same place.
NEAL- We can all come home it's christmas break.
MORGAN-but sometimes things happen Neal.
NEAL- like what?
MORGAN- like maybe they meet new friends and want to hang out with them.
NEAL-why would they do that?
Morgan laughs.
MEKHI- no he's right we should have at least one holiday they all make time for each other for.
NEAL- Well me K and T do thanksgiving already.
TAYLOR-next year that may be a little tough.
MORGAN-Taylor.
ZHURI- she's not wrong though.
Tavon looks at Zhuri confused.
NEAL-Why would it be tough? You're canceling already we're not even in the new year yet.
TAYLOR- you're right my bad.
MORGAN-(low voice) if he has one of his episodes Im sending him to you.
TAYLOR-Im shutting up.
Zhuri laughs.
TAVON- It could just be new years eve.
MORGAN- perfect.
NEAL- So we all agree?
Everyone nods in agreeance.
MORGAN-(to kent) It was just me and you this time last year...before you went to the hospital.
Kent laughs.
KENT- it was.
MORGAN- Not that you need anything to that make that head even bigger than it is but you're a really good guy Kent Davis, thanks for keeping me together.
KENT-shit thanks for keeping me together...I was miserable as hell.
Morgan laughs.
KENT- I was gonna um wait until me and T hand out the gifts but would you be my best wo-man?
Morgan smiles.
MORGAN-Me? Seriously?!
Morgan hugs him.
KENT- you didnt have to hug me.
MORGAN- I have so many ideas.
KENT-but that's not what this means-
MORGAN-Shh what do you know. I can see it now.
KENT- I should of picked Kyle.
ZHURI- (to Tavon) so how was it with my Dad?
TAVON- it was okay...I always learn alot from him...your Dad is really powerful, its crazy.
ZHURI- So I heard.
Zhuri hands him a handful of notes .
TAVON- whats this?
ZHURI- I wrote you some of things of I was thinking about while you were gone.
Tavon smiles.
TAVON-you missed me that much?
ZHURI- Yeah I did...so what.
Tavon laughs.
TAVON- you have every right.
Tavon kisses her.
TAVON- but I am yours for the rest of the night.
Zhuri smiles.
ZHURI- you better be.
Tavon laughs.
TAYLOR- (to Tavon) hey I never got to give you, your christmas gift.
TAVON- you didnt have to get me anything.
TAYLOR-okay.
Taylor pulls the gift back.
TAVON-whoa but since you did...who am I turn it away.
Taylor and Zhuri laughs.
Tavon opens the gift and it's a card with a check.
TAVON- T this is...bro this is a lot of money.
Taylor laughs.
TAYLOR-Marvin gave it to me for school and I dont need it but Im sure you will so.
TAVON- you could of used it to buy anything and you gave it to me...aww.
Tavon hugs her.
TAVON-this is why I like you more than Neal.
NEAL- fuck you.
MEKHI-(to Mariah) I'm sorry for leaving like that...I just wanted to be able to do this on my own.
MARIAH- Hey, I'm not mad at you...I can't tell you what to do or how to feel. The only thing I want to do is be there for you.
Mekhi looks at her.
MEKHI-you have been like the nicest to me....you dont know how much I appreciate it and need it right now...trying to find that in other people and you were always here just being genuine....thank you.
MARIAH- Well Duh.
Mekhi laughs.
MARIAH-but let's cut the sappy stuff out. and let's celebrate the new year!
JAZMINE- forty seconds bitches!
KENT- pause the music!
The music stops and everyone begins to countdown.
NEAL-(to Morgan) Im happy Im standing next to you.
MORGAN- Im gonna be standing next to you for the rest of my life.
Neal smiles like he'll never get tired of hearing that.
Kent hands Taylor his phone.
TAYLOR-what's this?
KENT-look at the date.
TAYLOR-(reading from the notes in Kent's phone) me and Taylor we'll spend the next years eve together....you wrote this while I was in the hospital?
KENT- Yeah.
CROWD- ten nine eight seven-
TAYLOR- I would normally say something all mushy but I want to spend the six seconds kissing you into 2024.
Kent laughs and Taylor kisses him.
CROWD- three two one! Happy New Year!
Morgan and Neal share a kiss and so does Tavon and Zhuri.
The music cuts back on and everyone begins to party harder.
TAVON- (to Zhuri) come here.
They begin to kiss and they go upstairs.
INT. BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Tavon and Zhuri continue to kiss and fall on the bed. They both laughs at each other.
TAVON-you know the last time we were here...I felt like I had to let you go.
Zhuri looks at him.
TAVON-You had this look and do you remember what you said.
ZHURI-I said this wouldn't be the end of us...I knew it wouldn't be.
TAVON- how were you so sure then?
Zhuri grabs his face.
ZHURI-because I knew we were meant to be something bigger than just one summer of miscommunication or fleeting feelings....me and you we're real. You're the one.
TAVON- You're the one.
Zhuri kisses him.
INT. LIVING ROOM - SAME TIME
Neal and Morgan are in the middle of kissing like there is no one else in the world but them.
NEAL- we should go upstairs...(kissing again) like now.
Morgan laughs like a little kid.
INT. BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER
Morgan and Neal bursts into the room still kissing.
MORGAN-The last time we were here you doubted how I much I loved you.
NEAL-I think it was more I doubted how I deserve you....I think you're so great and I know Im this nerd guy-
Morgan covers his mouth.
MORGAN- I love that you're nerd, I love all of your flaws and little quirks, it's what pulls me back in every single time.
Neal smiles.
MORGAN-I know you think Im great but I think you're amazing and there is no one I could ever fall so head over heels in love with besides you Neal Carter.
Neal kisses her passionately.
INT. BEDROOM - SAME TIME
Kent is on the sitting against the headboard. Taylor comes out of the bathroom in her nurse outfit. Kent laughs a little.
TAYLOR-I know you're feeling better but didn't get to finish what we started earlier.
Kent grabs her and begins to kiss her.
TAYLOR- K the last time we were here...I was feeling so insecure about myself....and you were just so sure and you picked me up and told me how beautiful I was.
KENT-I will always tell you how beautiful you are.
Kent traces the outline of her lips with his finger.
TAYLOR-Im so in love with you.
KENT-I'm so in love with you...like so much.
They begin to kiss passionately.
END OF EPISODE.