INT. TONY'S BAR - NIGHT
Hazel Maya Ryan and Sterling sit at a booth. Nick brings over another round of drinks.
RYAN- Hey waiter what time you get off?
Nicki smiles.
NICK- Whenever you want me to be.
Ryan winks at him. Nick laughs and walks back over to the bar.
STERLING- You're really a boyfriend.
Ryan smiles.
RYAN- two weeks strong.
Maya smiles.
MAYA-It's so sweet.
HAZEL- it's almost disgusting.
Maya laughs.
RYAN- Aww you just miss me Hazel.
HAZEL- I see you everyday.
RYAN- That's true...but you know what....no matter who I date I'll still make sure to check you out when you walk by.
Sterling laughs.
HAZEL- What?
MAYA- Anyway Hazel you're up next.
HAZEL- Don't wish that on me.
MAYA- Why not?
HAZEL- Do you see how we're all sitting here together having drinks after a long day of work-
STERLING- Well Maya wouldn't know because she never works hard.
Ryan laughs.
MAYA- That's funny coming from a person who couldn't put on his own tie today.
STERLING- Man I had honey on my hands relax.
RYAN- Why did you have honey on your hands?
STERLING- She wanted to stop to get breakfast and I wanted to try this honey she always gets.
RYAN- Was it good?
STERLING- (lying) it was aight.
MAYA- Oh please you loved it hence the honey on his hands. He just doesn't want to give me credit.
STERLING- Anyway Hazel you were saying?
MAYA- Whatever Uptown.
STERLING- You just have to get the last word.
MAYA- Yeah.
Hazel laughs.
HAZEL- Okay anyway, see how we're sitting here enjoying each other's company...well at least me and Ryan are....I have no obligations to check in on anybody I can do whatever I want. My only obligation is my job and my apartment....and even that didn't become a home until MJ moved in.
MAYA- (touched) Aww (putting her arm around Hazel) you love me so much....I love you too.
Hazel laughs.
HAZEL- but why are you pushing me into a relationship anyway, like you're not in your friends with benefits era anyway.
Sterling rolls his eyes.
MAYA- that's different.
HAZEL- How?
MAYA- I'm simply doing that because I just got out of a serious relationship...so I want to try something different.
STERLING- and you like it?
MAYA-friends with benefits?
STERLING-Yeah.
MAYA- I mean it's kinda like what Hazel was saying, not being official means you don't owe the person anything....and if someone doesn't owe you can never be disappointed.
Sterling looks at her.
RYAN- Aw that's so sad.
Maya laughs.
MAYA- Oh please I'm fine.
HAZEL-I think you're settling.
MAYA- I am not!
HAZEL- We'll circle back to this conversation in due time but I'll meet y'all at home I need to stop by the bank.
MAYA RYAN STERLING- Big Money!
HAZEL-(laughing) I hate all of you.
Hazel leaves.
RYAN-You know it could actually be Sterling.
STERLING-Wha could be me?
RYAN- the next to be in relationship.
Maya busts into laughs.
MAYA- Whew now that was funny.
STERLING- (mocking her) hahaha.
Maya looks at him still laughing.
STERLING- Why is that funny?
MAYA-You with a girlfriend is just, I don't know it's funny to me.
STERLING-Why because you want to be?
Ryan gets the biggest smile he's excited.
RYAN-OH!
Maya rolls her eyes.
MAYA-You wish I wanted to be your girlfriend.
STERLING- Let's not forget.
Sterling pulls out his phone.
MAYA- Oh God please don't tell me that's-
Sterling smiles.
STERLING- But it is.
Maya covers her face embarrassed. Ryan laughs.
STERLING- The Maya loves Sterling Playlist....would you like to hear the name of the first three tracks Ryan Miranda?
Ryan smiles. Maya still covers her face in embarrassment.
RYAN- Yes, would you do me the honor Sterling Jackson?
STERLING- track one Brown Eyes by Destiny's Child.
RYAN- Hmm I havent heard that one, what are the lyrics.
STERLING- One second my good brother....(reading) Remember the first day when I saw your face?Remember the first day when you smiled at me? You stepped to me and then you said to me I was the woman you dreamed about.
RYAN-Damn!
Maya hits Ryan.
RYAN- I gotta save that one for myself that's some good shit right there.....what are the next two tracks?
STERLING- Love on Top by Beyoncé.
RYAN-Ohhh I know that one.
STERLING- A banger...but I think track three is my favorite: Happily Ever after by Case.
RYAN- Oh a serious throw brack.
STERLING- Thats what Im saying.
MAYA- Are you done?
Sterling smiles.
STERLING- For now.
Maya tried to snatch his phone but Sterling keeps it from her.
MAYA- Why haven't you deleted that?
STERLING- What? I'm never deleting this.
MAYA- Why so you can laugh?
Before Sterling can answer the power shuts out in the entire place.
MAYA- See God doesn't like ugly.
STERLING- he's not too found of pretty either.
Sterling winks at her.
INT. ATM VESTIBULE - NIGHT
Hazel starts to walk towards the door to leave, and the power goes off, the lights go out, then flicker back on.
HAZEL-What the fuck?
She grabs the door handle and shakes it, the doors are locked.
HAZEL- Oh hell no!
She turns and sees that she is locked in the ATM vestibule with a
beautiful woman a Victoria's Secret model Teseana Anderson.
She turns back and makes a GREAT gesture with her arms and hands.
HAZEL- Thanks Maya.
INT. HAZEL'S APARTMENT - NIGHT
Nick, Ryan, and Sterling sit on the couch.
Maya is looking out the window.
MAYA- Yall it looks like it's the whole city.
RYAN-(on the phone) My mom says it's all of Manhattan, parts of Brooklyn and Queens and they have no idea when its coming back on.
MAYA- Damn, this is crazy.
RYAN-(on the phone) Yes we have candles and water mom...yes the doors are locked....
Ryan's mother says something else and Ryan looks up to see if anyone is looking at him.
RYAN-(low voice) Yes I took a shower today.
Maya and Sterling both look at him and laugh at little.
RYAN- I'll call you later mom.
Ryan hangs up the phone.
MAYA- So cute that your mom makes sure you still take a shower.
Ryan gives her the finger. They all laugh.
INT. ATM VESTIBULE - NIGHT
HAZEL-(low voice) Oh my God, it's her its that Victorias Secret model.. something, something
Anderson.....
Teseana is on her cell phone.
TESEANA-Hey Mom, it's Teseana.
HAZEL-(low voice)I knew it...Teseana Anderson. Oh my God I am trapped in an ATM vestibule with Jill Teseana Anderson, wait is this a vestibule? Maybe its an atrium, oh yeah, that is the part to focus on Hazel. Why am I like this?
TESEANA-Yeah Im fine Im just stuck at the bank, at an ATM vestibule.
HAZEL-(low voice) Teseana says vestibule Im going with vestibule.
TESEANA- No I'm fine, no I'm not alone ...I don't know some girl.
HAZEL-(low voice) I am not some girl my name is Hazel, the hell.
Hazel looks down on her phone and begins to dial Maya's number but it dies.
HAZEL- You gotta be fucking kidding me.
INT. HAZEL'S APARTMENT - NIGHT
Ryan enters carrying a lit menorah, he starts to walk across the room, and the others give
him strange looks.
MAYA- of all the candles?
RYAN-What?
STERLING- Looks like you about to be officiating something.
RYAN- This was the only candle I could find in my room.
NICK-Since when do you have this in your room?
RYAN- It was in the back of my closet.
MAYA- Why?
STERLING- you're seriously asking him that?
MAYA- I wanna know.
RYAN- I was leaving a gig from a wedding at a church and it was empty room next to it-
NICK- like for funerals?
Ryan smiles.
RYAN- Probably...and I was all like...me and Sterling would need a candle one day.
STERLING- I've never seen that before and don't bring me into you stealing from God.
Maya laughs.
RYAN- anyway I brought it home and Leila was all like don't put that ugly thing up in here.
MAYA- oh so Leila was decorating your apartment?
STERLING- No, I never even knew about this.
MAYA- at least she had taste in somethings.
Maya smirks at Sterling and he nods.
STERLING- does anyone wanna hear track four on Maya's playlist?
MAYA- okay I'm sorry!
STERLING- Yeah I bet.
MAYA-(looking out the window) Oh that couples has a lot of candles.
Nick, Ryan, and Sterling rush over to the window they all lean their head to the right.
ALL-WOW.
ALL-Oooo.
MAYA-That has to hurt.
STERLING- Not if you're doing it right.
They all look at Sterling, he shrugs.
INT. ATM VESTIBULE - NIGHT
Hazel is looking at her now dead cell.
HAZEL- Okay Hazel it's been fourteen and a half minutes and you still have not said one word girl. Say or make eye contact or something. ( Hazel smiles at Teseana she smiles back, Hazel carries on smiling)
TESEANA-Would you like to call someone?
HAZEL-Yes thank yo7.
Teseana gives Hazel her cellphone. Hazel dials Maya's number.
INT. HAZEL'S APARTMENT - SAME TIME.
Maya's phone is ringing and she answers.
MAYA- Hello?
HAZEL- MJ it's me.
MAYA-(to the others in the apartment) It's Hazel.
STERLING-She okay?
MAYA-Are you okay?
HAZEL- Yeah girl I'm fine. . . . . ( In a muffled voice.) I'm trapped in an ATM vestibule with Teseana Anderson
MAYA-Girl What?
HAZEL-(Still muffled ) I'm trapped in an ATM vestibule with Teseana Anderson!
MAYA- I have no idea what you just said.
HAZEL-Put Ryan on the phone!
Maya hands Sterling the phone.
RYAN-Whats up Hazel?
HAZEL-(Muffled ) Im trapped in an ATM vestibule with Teseana (Extremely Muffled.) Anderson!!
RYAN-(Very excited in disbelief.) Oh my God . . . . (Sterling Ryan points rapidly at the phone.) she's trapped in an ATM vestibule with Teseana Anderson.
MAYA- (sarcastic) Oh how did I not understand that?
Sterling laughs.
INT. HAZEL'S APARTMENT - NIGHT
All of them are sitting on the couch. Sterling is eating a bag of chips.
MAYA- Can I have some?
Sterling looks down at his bag and rolls his eyes and hands her the bag of chips Maya smiles.
MAYA- Okay come on somebody go.
RYAN-Yeah come on...I want to hear this stuff.
STERLING- You know half my life.
RYAN- That is true.
NICK- I'll go...senior year of college....on a table hockey game.
MAYA-Damn....were there other people around?
RYAN- Yeah tell us more Im intrigued.
Nick laughs.
NICK- It wasn't anyone around and it was after a date we were drunk on our way back to the dorm and well the heart wants what the heart wants.
MAYA- It was the heart alright.
Nick laughs.
NICK- Well.
RYAN-Okay my weirdest place would have to be. . . the bathroom in a waxing place.
They all look at him and pause.
STERLING- Wait.
Ryan smiles and nods.
MAYA- like after she just got finished getting a-
Ryan smiles and nods.
RYAN-Yeah....have you guys ever a seen a waxed-
MAYA- enough next, Sterling you?
SETRLING- Um a town fair...
Maya gasps.
MAYA- With children around?!
STERLING- No there weren't any kids around....at least not that I saw.
Maya pushing Sterling at his shoulder. Nick laughs.
NICK- No way.
RYAN- Yeah I don't even know about this.
STERLING-Yeah, it was barely any people on the ride and it broke broke down me and the girl I was dating went behind a a few of those signs and well lets say they fixed the ride and we were asked never to return to the fair...again....like ever.
Ryan and Nick both laugh. Maya sits in deep thoughts.
MAYA-(V.O) Wow they all had amazing sex lives and then theres me.
They all continue to laugh and Maya has a half smile .
RYAN-Okay MJ your turn.
MAYA- (lying) huh? I already went.
STERLING- Girl no you did not
MAYA-Yes I did....whew I tell you that old age catching up to you Sterling.
RYAN- Come on, tell us...we won't judge.
STERLING- speak for yourself.
Maya sighs
MAYA- Fine, okay the weirdest place that I have had sex would have to be.....the couch.
STERLING-(sarcastic) whoa? Like in the living room?!
Maya covers her face.
NICK- (sarcastic) Have you no shame?
RYAN- guys you know what?
MAYA-(covering her face) please stop talking.
Sterling smiles.
RYAN-(sarcastic) We have a winner!
MAYA- I hate yall so much, leave me alone.
STERLING- Aww Honey....wait was it this couch?
Ryan and Nick laughs.
Maya gets up and walks over to the kitchen.
Sterling smiles.
STERLING- come on I was joking.
INT. HAZEL'S APARTMENT - NIGHT
Sterling and Maya are sitting on the sofa talking Maya's legs are on Sterling's lap with a blanket on
top of them.
Nick and Ryan are out on the balcony.
MAYA-I've just never had a relationship with that kind of passion you know where you have to have somebody right there in the middle of a state fair.
STERLING- We gotta get you to a state fair.
Maya laughs.
STERLING- the next one that comes I got you.
MAYA- Can you stop? I'm serious...with Steven it was kinda just the same time of routine all of the time.
INT. MAYA'S AND STEVENS APARTMENT - FLASHBACK
Steven sits on the couch playing a video game. Maya walks to the door of their bedroom wearing sexy lingerie.
MAYA- You want to put that game down or what?
STEVEN-(not looking) Ten more minutes, I promise.
MAYA- I dont think I can wait.
Steven looks over at her shocked.
STEVEN- When did you buy that?
MAYA-Does it matter?
STEVEN- I mean yeah....that's not you.
MAYA-Well duh that's the point...I'm wearing it to look nice for you.
STEVEN- I think you look nice without it though. You dont need all that stuff.
MAYA- It's not about needing....you know what never mind...enjoy your game.
Maya goes inside their bedroom.
STEVEN-(back to playing the video game) Ten minutes.
INT. HAZEL'S APARTMENT - BACK TO CURRENT TIME
STERLING- Seriously? and you liked that?
MAYA-He was the only person I had been with...I don't I just thought that's how it was supposed to be.
STERLING- Have I ever told you how happy I am that you two never worked out?
Maya laughs and hits him on the shoulder.
MAYA- How many people do you think there are that go through life without having that kind of passion?
STERLING-(lying to make her feel better) Alot Im sure.
MAYA- Really?
STERLING- Okay maybe not that many but passion is overrated anyway.
MAYA- Whatever you're just saying that.
STERLING- Im serious...passion can burn out but hopefully what you are left with is trust and security. That's way more important.
Maya looks at him.
STERLING- Trust me I would know...had a lot relationships with passion...not so many where I can have real conversation with or want to build with...you know?
Maya nods.
STERLING- But I don't think you should worry....I think you're gonna have it all.
Maya smiles.
MAYA-You do?
STERLING- I do.
Nick and Ryan walk back inside both of them obviously high.
MAYA-Did you guys just get high?
RYAN-(smiling) maybe.
Nick laughs.
NICK-nothing else to do.
MAYA- Im just mad y'all didn't offer me some.
STERLING- You smoke?
MAYA- Maybe.
Ryan pulls a stash out of his pocket.
RYAN- Who said we didn't have more?
INT. ATM VESTIBULE - NIGHT
TESEANA- Would you like some gum?
HAZEL- Sure.
Teseana hands her a piece of gum.
HAZEL-Thanks.
TESEANA- How long do you think we're gonna be in here?
HAZEL- Hopefully not long...it's getting kinda cold.
TESEANA- Maybe if you sat next to me you could get some heat.
Hazel looks a bit impressed and then walks over to sit next to her.
Teseana smiles at her.
INT. HAZEL'S APARTMENT - NIGHT
Maya, Nick, Ryan , and Sterling are sitting in a circle and laughing hysterically after smoking. Sterling lights Maya up and she coughs the smoke out.
Sterling laughs at her. He exhales.
Ryan talks in a really weird voice.
RYAN- MJ is floating.
Maya laughs.
MAYA- Stop looking at me.
STERLING- It's hard not to.
Maya looks at him.
MAYA- and why is that?
Sterling looks at her.
STERLING- I don't know...I don't know everything.
They look at each other for a moment.
RYAN- MJ do you have a middle name?
MAYA- Yes.
RYAN-What is it?
MAYA-not telling.
RYAN-Come on we're practically related.
MAYA- Since when?
RYAN- Since now.
STERLING- What are you embarrassed of your middle name?
MAYA- No.
STERLING- So tell us.
MAYA-You first.
STERLING-Hell no.
RYAN-Augustus!
Maya and Nick busts into laughs.
STERLING-Ryan!
Maya can't stop laughing .
RYAN- Im sorry, I thought you were going to tell her.
STERLING- that's just so funny to you.
Maya leans on him still laughing. Sterling rolls his eyes.
Maya begins to gather herself and sits back up and stops laughing.
MAYA-(teasing) Aww Augustus.
STERLING- You have to tell me now.
MAYA- No I don't.
Sterling at her.
STERLING- Come on, please.
Maya rolls her eyes and exhales.
MAYA- It's Naomi.
RYAN- Naomi....I like it.
Maya smiles.
MAYA- Thank you.
STERLING- It's okay.
Maya pulls a pillow from the couch and hits him with it.
MAYA-Whatever Augustus.
STERLING- That is a powerful name!
MAYA-Im sure it is darling.
STERLING-This is why I don't tell yall shit.
RYAN- too bad I know your life.
STERLING- yeah that's true, but it's even worse that I have to kill you.
Maya laughs.
MAYA- I feel like if I keep sitting here..Im gonna fall asleep...I need some air.
Maya walks out on the balcony. Ryan kicks Sterling.
STERLING- Bro what the fuck is wrong with you?
RYAN- That's your cue...go out there and tell her how you really feel.
STERLING- How I really feel?
RYAN- yes...tonight is perfect you're trapped here no distractions....and I saw how cozy you two were on the couch.
STERLING-What? That was nothing we were just talking.
NICK- With her legs on you....under a blanket.
Sterling looks at him.
RYAN- See he hasn't even been here that long and even he knows.
STERLING-He also dates you so maybe he doesn't have the best judgement.
Ryan holds his chest.
RYAN- That's just mean.
STERLING- Im sorry.
Ryan slowly begins to smirk.
RYAN- so sorry that you're gonna listen to me now?
STERLING- There is nothing to listen to.
RYAN- Listen if you don't tell her how you feel now you're gonna be stuck in the friend zone forever...and you'll never be able to get out of it.
STERLING- First of all I'm not in any zone and I'm fine with being friends....second if I wanted to get out of a friend zone I have no problems with doing so.
RYAN- you forgot one thing.
STERLING- What?
RYAN-You are the most stubborn person to ever exist.
Sterling nods.
STERLING- Maybe.
RYAN- Trust me no one is topping you.
Sterling nods.
STERLING- That's great to know.
RYAN- I also know...nobody makes you as happy as MJ does and the second you lose that you're gonna be crushed.
Sterling looks at him and then looks out on the balcony at Maya.
INT. ATM VESTIBULE - NIGHT
HAZEL- I've been pretending this piece of gum is a full course meal.
Teseana laughs.
TESEANA- what would you be eating if you were home?
HAZEL- if my best friend didn't cook probably Chinese food that's my go to.
TESEANA- What spot do you go to?
HAZEL- Spot called Lucky's it's the best. Very healthy but very satisfying.
Teseana nods.
TESEANA- sounds like my kind of place.
Hazel smiles.
HAZEL- Maybe if we survive this.
Teseana laughs.
HAZEL-we could get some together some time.
TESEANA- I'll be looking forward to that.
Hazel smiles.
EXT. BALCONY- NIGHT
Sterling walks out on the balcony he looks at Maya for a minute, she's looking out at the city.
He stands next to her.
STERLING- What are you thinking about?
Maya looks at him and smiles a little.
MAYA- It's like sometimes...I still can't believe I'm here.
STERLING- Like here in the presence of a legend or here in New York.
They both laugh.
MAYA- (sarcastic) Oh definitely here in the presence of Mr.Augustus himself. I can't wait to tell my grandchildren this story.
Sterling holds his head down.
STERLING- you're not gonna let that go are you?
MAYA- Not a chance. I love having something to pick with you about. First uptown and now Augustus. I gotta find a third nickname.
Maya begins to think.
STERLING- Why?
MAYA- Why what?
STERLING- Why do you need to have something to pick with me about?
MAYA- Because.
MAYA-(V.O) This is actually a good question I don't know why I do it.
STERLING- because what?
MAYA- because you're great.
MAYA-(V.O) Maya shut the hell up.
Sterling looks at her confused.
MAYA- you're like this walking perfection....so to be able to have something to bring you down with....I don't know....I just like doing it.
STERLING- I think you use those jokes to mask how you're really feeling.
MAYA- (lying) What? No I'm not...of course you would think that Augustus.
Sterling laughs and shakes his head.
STERLING- you're literally doing it right now.
Maya looks at him.
MAYA-(V.O) I want to get him with a quick come back but then he does this fluttery thing with his long eye-lashes. And I know he's not even trying but it makes me want to do whatever he asks.
STERLING- So you think I'm walking l perfection?
Maya gives him a really look. Sterling smiles.
STERLING- I'm not walking perfection.
MAYA- You do everything you're supposed to do...you're at the top of your career...you make sure everyone around you is okay while still having time to do things for yourself. And you don't ever complain about anything.
Sterling looks at her.
STERLING- Maya do you know the reason I got a degree in business?
MAYA- because you love money?
Sterling laughs.
STERLING- Okay that's true but no.
Maya looks at him confused.
MAYA- Then why?
Sterling takes a seat on one of the patio chairs he taps the seat next to him.
MAYA-(V.O) did he just pat for me to sit down? And I'm actually walking to sit next to him. Where the he'll is Hazel?
STERLING- I never wanted to be in a position where someone else can control me or take something from me and Im left with nothing.
MAYA- you talking about your Dad?
STERLING- exactly.
MAYA- but I thought you liked working at ICONA?
STERLING- Nah I do, And I'm good at marketing...I can do it in my sleep but that's just because that's me...but you have something you're actually passionate about. That's dope, you should be proud of that.
MAYA- I mean I am...it's just the journey is a bit long you know.
STERLING- You're exactly where you're supposed to be....the success is gonna come and when it does it's gonna feel even better knowing you did it your way.
MAYA-(V.O) Now Hazel says this same type of stuff but why I do I like more coming from out his mouth?
MAYA- so what is it that you want?
STERLING- As far as?
MAYA- What's your dream job, life...all that stuff.
STERLING- Have my own business not sure for what yet exactly but probably advertising....but I want to be working like way less....have a house in manhattan. But I'm rarely there too I'm always on vacation somewhere.
MAYA- of course Uptown has to live in uptown.
STERLING- Don't judge me....and stop calling me that.
MAYA- I can't help it, it flows.
Sterling laughs.
MAYA- but that's it?
STERLING- (confused) That's it? That's not a good life?
MAYA- I mean yeah it's okay but you seriously think you're not gonna be a Dad?
STERLING- wait you sure you don't know my mom?
Maya laughs.
STERLING- I don't know to be honest I can't imagine bringing kids into this world....when I can't commit to a relationship.
MAYA- Look I could never commit to anything in high school or college...why you think my Dad was so worried about me being out here?
Sterling laughs.
STERLING- That's different.
MAYA- it's not...when I finally found something I didn't want to lose...I'm not going to give up on it. I think the same thing goes for you...I think when you find the right person it's not even gonna be an idea about commitment you're just not gonna wanna lose them.
STERLING- I doubt it.
MAYA- I can see it...I definitely think God is gonna give you a daughter first though.
STERLING- that would humble me real quick.
Maya laughs.
STERLING- (laughing) how do you see your future?
MAYA- I want to own a few boutiques but I want it to be a family business you know? A place for everyone and if my kids want to be into it they can and I want alot of regular customers....like the same people I designed prom outfits for they come back for their wedding and stuff.
Sterling looks at her really listening. Maya gets a shy laugh.
MAYA- I don't know it's crazy.
STERLING- No keep going.
Maya smiles.
MAYA- (V.O) This is so weird he's nodding and his eyes are really locked on me like he's listening intently. I'm still getting used to someone doing that.
MAYA- I just...I love using fashion to express myself and I love helping other people express themselves too. It just....I don't know I get this feeling..it's a good feeling.
STERLING- that's because it's your passion.
Maya smiles.
MAYA- (agreeing) it is my passion.
Sterling laughs.
STERLING- Okay what's next?
MAYA- I want to get married eventually a very intimate wedding ceremony but the reception is lit as hell very end of a black romcom type thing.
Sterling laughs.
MAYA- and I want a big family.
STERLING- How big?
MAYA- Like four kids.
STERLING- damn girl.
Maya laughs.
MAYA- Family is really important to me.
STERLING- I can tell.
MAYA- oh shut up, how?
STERLING-The way you talk about your parents and even though you say you and your sister aren't close you're always checking up on her Instagram to see if she's okay.
MAYA- so you watching who I'm checking up on?
STERLING- Someone has to.
Maya laughs. Sterling smiles.
MAYA- I do feel bad for how I left things with her
STERLING- fighting a cake is a bad last memory.
Maya laughs.
MAYA- Shut up....that is so embarrassing I can't believe I told you that...I gotta stop talking to you.
STERLING- What if I gave you a secret in exchange?
MAYA- Ouu you had sex in the copy room didn't you?
Sterling looks confused.
STERLING- What? No who told you that?
MAYA- Nobody but it just seemed like something a guy would do there.
STERLING- Stay off porn hub.
Maya gasps.
MAYA- Sterling!
Sterling laughs.
MAYA- fine what's the secret?
STERLING- The real reason why I kept your playlist is because it's a reminder that someone once liked me that much....even if it was fake.
Maya looks at him not expecting that response.
MAYA-I'm happy to be the one to give it to you.
Sterling has a half smile.
MAYA-(V.O) My heart is racing so fast right now I can feel it all the way in my throat....I want to kiss him.....I'm gonna kiss him.
Maya leans in towards him. When the front door opens.
BRIAN-(O.S) is Maya here?
MAYA- (confused) Brian?
STERLING- What?
Maya points. Sterling turns around and see's Brian talking to Ryan.
They both look disappointed.
INT. ATM VESTIBULE - NIGHT
Hazel and Teseana are playing tic tac toe on a sticky note. This is their fourth round.
Hazel draws an X and now has Teseana two ways.
TESEANA- no way I fell for that again.
Hazel laughs.
HAZEL- I use to do that trick so much growing up I'm surprised I remembered it.
Teseana laughs.
TESEANA- do you remember that one game where you guess your future like you list three people you would marry and if you end up in an apartment or mansion?
Hazel laughs.
HAZEL- Oh shit you're talking about MASH...yes I remember that now. In fact third grade me owes up. I'm supposed to be married to be married with twins to Lil Romeo right now.
Teseana laughs.
TESEANA- you had a crush on Lil Romeo?
HAZEL- I actually had a crush on Raven Symone but he was my cover.
Teseana laughs.
TESEANA- Well I'm sure third grade you is happy to find out you had somewhat of a chance with her after-all.
HAZEL- (laughing) I never even thought about that....who was your first crush?
TESEANA- Don't judge.
HAZEL- (smiling) I won't make any promises.
Teseana sighs.
TESEANA- Shego from Kim Possible.
Hazel laughs.
HAZEL- that's not bad actually. Shego was fine as hell.
TESEANA- See you get me. I was always rooting for her.
They both laugh.
HAZEL- it's crazy how when you're a kid you have all these dreams about how your life will turn out, and then before you know it you're living in those moments.
TESEANA- Who you telling?
HAZEL- I actually forgot about what I use to want...I got so detached from it.
TESEANA- Like what?
Hazel forces a smile.
HAZEL- (deflecting) it doesn't matter....you wanna play another game?
Hazel rips off the old sheet of paper from the notepad and starts a new game.
INT. HAZEL'S APARTMENT - NIGHT
Brian is talking to Maya they sit by the window facing the patio.
Nick, Ryan, and Sterling watch from the kitchen.
RYAN- I think you are way better than him.
STERLING- Shut up man.
RYAN- you know what you should do?
STERLING- get a new best friend?
RYAN- no that would take too much time....you should walk over there and tell MJ you need to talk to her. Then yall go back to her room and yall make out.
Sterling looks at him and Ryan smiles and nods like he just came up with the best plan ever.
STERLING- I would say I worry about you....but there has got to be another word for it.
Sterling looks at Nick and then taps him on the shoulder.
STERLING- oh yeah that's right your problem now.
Sterling smiles. Nick laughs and shakes his head. Sterling walks into the bathroom.
Maya and Brian talking by the window.
MAYA- I can't believe you came by.
BRIAN- I wanted to make sure you was good...I called you but it was no answer....so.
MAYA- Yeah my phone was inside....It's just I'm sorry I just didn't think we were in the stop by unannounced stage.
BRIAN- What does that mean?
MAYA- I'm not trying to be rude but I'm just confused.
BRIAN- You know what I'm sorry for making sure you were okay MJ.
MAYA- I'm not saying that....Im just trying to do this right...and if we're supposed to be casual shouldn't it be certain things you don't do...I mean what if I was here with someone else.
MAYA- (V.O) okay I almost laughed out loud because I can barely afford time with him so who else would I have up here. But still the point stands.
Brian smiles a little.
BRIAN- Like Sterling.
MAYA- me and Sterling are friends I'm not talking about that.
BRIAN- Then say what it is you're trying to say?
Ryan notices the tension.
RYAN- I think we should play a game!
MAYA- not now Ryan.
RYAN- but I need you...the game is about you MJ.
Maya smiles excited.
MAYA- Ouu what it is?
NICK-(low voice) you have no idea do you.
RYAN-(low voice smiling) not a clue.
NICK- (helping) The game of MJ!
MJ- (excited) ouu I wanna play.
Maya sits in the living room.
RYAN- (low voice) what the hell is the game of MJ?
NICK- I don't know I was just trying to help you out you better think of something.
RYAN- it's a good thing I'm a fast liar. M
Nick looks at him. Ryan pauses and then tries to smile.
RYAN- I mean to like the people I care about.
Nick shoots him another look. Ryan pauses.
RYAN- I mean to my friends.
Sterling walks over to them.
STERLING- What are yall hollering about?
Ryan gets a devious smile.
RYAN- wait this can actually be good for you.
Sterling looks at him confused.
STERLING- What?
INT. LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER
They are sit in the living besides Ryan. Maya sitting in between Sterling and Brian. Ryan stands in the center of them.
RYAN- Okay first question...what is MJ's favorite color?
Brian laughs.
BRIAN- are you serious?
STERLING- she says it's yellow but it's really pink.
RYAN- That is correct.
Brian shoots a look over to Sterling.
MAYA- (to Sterling) I do like yellow!
STERLING- Whatever you say.
RYAN- What is MJ's favorite movie?
BRIAN- The Wood.
Ryan looks at Sterling telling him with his eyes to "come on"
RYAN- That is correct.
MAYA-(V.O) so he pays attention a little bit.
MAYA- that's a great movie right there.
Brian laughs. Sterling rolls his eyes.
STERLING- what's the next question?
RYAN- What is MJ's favorite snack?
BRIAN- that's easy chic fila.
Ryan makes a LOUD buzzer sound.
Nick shakes his head. Maya and Sterling try to hold in their laugh.
RYAN- Chic fila is an entree the question was snack.
STERLING- it's snickerdoodles.
Maya smiles a little Brian see's.
BRIAN- can I talk to you?
Maya looks at him.
MAYA- Yeah.
Brian walks towards Maya's room and Maya follows.
RYAN- the game isn't over yet!
Sterling laughs.
STERLING- let it go.
RYAN- he just stole your move, you were supposed to take her to her room.
Ryan shakes his head. Sterling looks at Maya's room door.
INT. MAYAS ROOM - SAME TIME
MAYA- I'm sorry about that Ryan just likes to joke around so.
BRIAN- he's not the only one.
Maya looks at him confused.
BRIAN- since Halloween you've been different.
MAYA-(V.O) don't ask him about his baby mother don't ask him about his baby mother.
MAYA- do you have feelings for your son's mother?
BRIAN- What?
MAYA- (V.O) bitches don't listen.
MAYA- Well....do you?
BRIAN- me and her haven't dated since high school...we're just co parenting now...what made you ask that?
MAYA- Because I saw your Instagram lying ass nigga!
BRIAN- What?
MAYA-(V.O) okay I didn't say that I wish I did though...that's kinda funny.
MAYA- I was just asking....just wanted to know.
BRIAN- that's why you been distant since Halloween.
Maya looks at him.
BRIAN- Look MJ...I like you a lot. And I'm never gonna lie to you about anything. But you gotta be real with me...especially if this is supposed to be no strings it's no reason to lie.
Maya has a nervous laugh.
MAYA- it's starting to not to feel not so much like no strings.
BRIAN- and maybe I don't mind that.
Maya looks at him. And he begins to kiss her.
INT. LIVING ROOM - SAME TIME.
Nick Ryan and Sterling sit in the living room. One of the candles in the center begins to burn out.
RYAN- ouuu we should count down like it's New Year's Eve.
NICK- Ryan.
Ryan smiles and kisses him. The lights come back on and Brian is walking to the front door. Sterling smiles.
STERLING- that was a quick visit B.
Brian laughs and nods.
BRIAN- Sterling I saw your car parked outside...I can't believe your shot got keyed...
Sterling looks at him.
BRIAN- five minutes from now.
Sterling walks towards him.
BRIAN- come on man I'm joking I would never do that to a co worker.
They both give each to their the fakest smile. Brian leaves.
RYAN- Is it just me or do you guys not like each other anymore?
Sterling looks at Ryan.
STERLING-(to Nick) please kiss him again.
INT. ATM VESTIBULE - NIGHT
The power has come back on and Hazel and Teseana begin to leave.
TESEANA- Well this was fun.
Hazel has a half smile.
HAZEL- it was.
Teseana kisses her.
TESEANA- that's for giving me an amazing blackout experience.
HAZEL- If you're free tomorrow...we can have a much better experience in the day time.
Teseana smiles.
INT. MAYAS ROOM - NIGHT
Maya lays across her bed and Sterling knocks on the door and stands in the door way.
STERLING- Hey we're about to go.
MAYA- Okay...thanks for staying here with me through all of this.
STERLING- Of course how else would I survive being in a blackout with Ryan.
Maya laughs a little.
MAYA- Right.
Sterling smiles at her. Hazel bursts in behind Sterling.
HAZEL- Come on yall get out here so I can tell yall about how I just met the love of my life.
Maya stands up walking over to them.
MAYA- What?
STERLING- I thought you didn't want to date anyone right?
HAZEL- Yeah well being in a blackout with someone can sometimes spark new feelings.
Hazel pulls Maya's hand walking her to the living room.
STERLING-(looking at Maya) Yeah it can.
END OF EPISODE