The Devil's Romance by Doug J Robbins

The Devil's Romance

by

Doug J Robbins

INT. BEDROOM DAY Blood drips from Ed Coons' ax. A young girl lies on thebed. Her head is clearly split open and heavily bloodied.Using his fingers, in blood, the man draws two upside downcrosses. The girl's Grandmother, Rose, bursts into the room.

GRANDMA ROSESweet Jesus.

Ed spins around.

EDShit.

Cut to Grandma's bloody face. She is lying dead upon thefloor. Ed draws a third cross on the wall. Across the screen flashes the words fifteen minutes later. Detective Hobs stares upon the scene with anger.

HOBSWhat kind of a sick bastard coulddo something like this?

Cut to rookie cop Dennis Roth vomiting in the toilet. INT. DOJO NIGHT Catherine Riggs demonstrates Karate to her female students.they are ten.

CATHERINE RIGGSRemember, ladies. It's tough beinga lady, but we're tougher. Right?

CLASS (IN UNISON)

Right. INT. APARTMENT NIGHT Catherine sits on the sofa reading a romance novel. Thetelephone rings. She answers it.

CATHERINE RIGGSHello?

CALLERHeavy breathing.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Hello? Who is this?

CALLERSatan.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Knock it off, asshole. Who are youfor real?

CALLER

Call me Billy.

CATHERINE RIGGSOkay, Ed. What do you want?

CALLER

To kill you. Catherine slams the phone down.

CATHERINE RIGGSCreep.

She continues reading her novel. Parked in front of theapartment is a mysterious black car. It is apparent the maninside is watching Catherine through her window usingbinoculars. He drives off. INT. APARTMENT NIGHT The telephone rings again. Catherine answers it again.


MOM

Hi sweetie, it's mom.

CATHERINE RIGGS (SIGHS)Hi, mom. I'm glad it's you.

MOM

Is something wrong?

CATHERINE RIGGSNo, just relieved it's you. I justhad an obscene phone call.

2.

MOMSome people are just weirdos.

CATHERINE RIGGS

You're telling me. So what's up?

MOMJust wanted to talk to you. I wasworried. A woman and hergranddaughter were murdered inyour area.

CATHERINE RIGGS

It's New York. That thing happenseveryday in big cities.

MOM

Not usually in their suburbs.

CATHERINE RIGGSYou need to stop worrying. I'm agrown woman. I can take care ofmyself.

MOM

No one's badder than a gun.Remember that.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I'll remember it. Of course, Ihave no idea why.

INT. LIBRARY DAY Catherine stands behind the counter, she is on thecomputer. Ed Coons walks into the library. He is wearing atrench coat, Italian shoes, an expensive shirt andexpensive slacks. Catherine glances over at him quicklybefore returning her gaze to her computer. She gives him afriendly smile. He vanishes down an aisle of books. After some time, he returns holding a copy of To ''Kill AMocking Bird.''

CATHERINE RIGGSThat's my favorite book.

ED

Mine too. You have the mostamazing set of green eyes.

3.

CATHERINE RIGGSThank you.

EDWould you care to have dinner withme?

CATHERINE RIGGS

I'd like that.

EDMario's okay? 7:30 Friday night?

CATHERINE RIGGS

That place is quite expensive.

EDNot for an orchestra conductor.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Oh my.

EDSee ya then.

EXT. MARIO'S RESTAURANT NIGHT A limousine pulls up in front of Mario's. Ed gets out ofthe back of the limo and Catherine climbs out the oppositeside. She wraps her arm in Ed's and whispers in her ear.

CATHERINE RIGGSI feel like royalty.

Ed smiles.

EDYou look elegant enough to beroyalty, my dear.

Catherine blushes. INT. MARIO'S RESTAURANT NIGHT A glass of champagne sits on the table. An Italian waiterapproaches the table, gives Catherine a warm smile andstarts playing amorous music on his violin.

4.

CATHERINE RIGGSThis place is so expensive. Ithink a glass of water here wouldcost me a year's salary.

ED

Money is no object to me, my dear.Consider me your genie; I am hereto grant your every desire.

Catherine raises her champagne glass.

CATHERINE RIGGSShall we have a toast?

ED

To what?

CATHERINE RIGGSTo new beginnings.

ED

To new beginnings. They clink glasses.

CATHERINE RIGGSHow long have you been aconductor?

ED

I was a child prodigy. Started atthe age of three.

CATHERINE RIGGS

SO YOUNG? I FIND THAT SO FASCINATING.I SAW THIS THING ON RICKI LAKE, ANDTHEY HAD THIS LITTLE BOY WHO COULDPLAY BACH AT FIVE ON THE PIANO.

ED

I must admit, that I do not knowwho Ricki Lake is.

CATHERINE RIGGS

She's a talk show host.

EDI'm afraid I do not watchtelevision.

ED (CONT'D)

Oh, I mean, I've been trying tocut back.

5.

EXT. APARTMENT NIGHT Catherine is standing on the front stoop with Ed.

CATHERINE RIGGSI had a lovely time.

ED

As did I. Catherine extends her hand. Ed shakes her hand.

ED (CONT'D)May I see you again sometime?

CATHERINE RIGGS

Sure thing.

EDWell, would you do me the favor ofseeing me perform this Saturdaynight?

CATHERINE RIGGS

I would love to. She winks and goes inside. INT. APARTMENT NIGHT Catherine is seated on the sofa. She is talking to hermother on the telephone.

CATHERINE RIGGSI went on a date tonight.

MOM

How'd it go?

CATHERINE RIGGSGreat.

MOM

Where'd you two go?

CATHERINE RIGGSWe ate at Mario's.

MOM

He must really like you. Thatplace is expensive.

CATHERINE RIGGS

You're telling me.

6.

MOMWhat's his name?

CATHERINE RIGGS

Ed Coons.

MOMWhat line of work is he in?

CATHERINE RIGGS

He's an orchestra conductor. NewYork's finest.

MOMWell, sounds nice to know you'redoing well.

INT. KITCHEN NIGHT Ed pops a pill in his mouth and swallows it with somewater. He dumps the water out and places the empty glass inthe sink and leaves the room, shutting the light off as heleaves. EXT. CONCERT HALL NIGHT INT. CONCERT HALL NIGHT Catherine sits in the front row looking admiringly up atEd, as he conducts. Backstage, after the show, Catherine is talking to Edbackstage.

CATHERINE RIGGSYou were terrific.

ED

I was alright.

CATHERINE RIGGSHow does it feel being so handsomeand talented?

ED

It's my cross to bear, I suppose. Ed and Catherine share a kiss.

7.

INT. PSYCHIATRIST'S OFFICE DAY Doctor Benet sits on the sofa, scribbling down notes on hislegal pad. Ed is lying down on the couch.

DOCTOR BENETYou say you've been taking yourmedication everyday?

ED

Yes, doctor.

DOCTOR BENETYou seem to be a new personentirely.

ED

The nightmares have gone away too.

DOCTOR BENETThe ones involving your mother?

EDYeah.

Flashback sequence: Marie coons forces Ed as a boy ofeight, into the closet.

MARIEYou're going to stay in thereuntil you're sorry for spillingyour milk.

ED

I'm sorry, mom. Please, let meout.

MARIE

You spilled your milk. You're avery naughty boy.

ED

I won't do it.

MARIEDon't make mommy get the curlingiron.

ED

No, mommy, don't get the curlingiron, I'll be good.

Flashback sequence ends.

8.

INT. PSYCHIATRIST'S OFFICE DAY

DOCTOR BENETJust keep taking your medicationand you should be fine.

ED

Do you think there will ever comea day when I don't have to take mypills?

DOCTOR BENET

I don't know. The chances don'tlook good.

ED

I understand.

DOCTOR BENETHave you considered what wediscussed before? About turningyourself into the police?

ED

Not a chance, doc.

DOCTOR BENETSee ya in two weeks.

ED

Sure thing. Take it easy. INT. POLICE STATION DAY Detective Hobs sits behind his desk. He is studying thecrime photos. he grunts and comes across a picture of EdCoons. He stares at it for moment, gives a nod and puts onhis coat and heads out the door. EXT ED'S HOUSE DAY Detective Hobs parks his Lincoln across the street. Hecrosses the street and knocks on the front door. Ed answersthe front door.

HOBSEd Coons?

ED

Yes?

HOBSI'm Detective Hobs, may I come in?

9.

EDSure.

INT. LIVING ROOM DAY Ed is seated on his sofa and on the smaller sofa, sitsDetective Hobs.

HOBSWhere were you on the morning ofSeptember 28th at precisely 10:00A.M.?

ED

I was here at home, nursing aterrible head cold?

HOBS

Is there anyone who can confirmthis information?

ED

No.

HOBSDo you live alone?

ED

Yes.

HOBSI would suggest you not leave thearea, we might need you forfurther questioning.

ED

I won't go anywhere, officer. Ipromise.

Detective Hobs exits. Ed calls Catherine.


ED

Hello, it's Ed. Listen, afterwork, do you think you can comeover?

CATHERINE RIGGS

Sure. Hours later, Catherine and Ed are sitting next to oneanother on a sofa.

10.

EDI need to be on a plane at 6:00a.m. tomorrow to Tahiti. Will youcome with me?

CATHERINE RIGGS

Yes. I will.

EDReally? I wasn't expecting you tosay yes. What made you say yes?

CATHERINE RIGGS

I've never felt this way before.

EDThis is no vacation. We will notbe coming back to the states. Thisis permanent.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I realize that. And I am ready forthis. My whole life, I've been theplay it safe type, but now, I'mwild and carefree.

INT. AIRPORT DAY Ed hands Catherine her passport and they board the plane. EXT. ISLAND Catherine and Ed are ushered into a car by their driver. INT. CAR DAY Catherine and Ed sit in the back of the car.

EDI should tell you that the two ofus shall be staying in my friendRaul's beach house. I hope that isfine.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Alone? Together?

EDDon't worry, my dear. There willbe separate bedrooms.

(MORE)

11.

ED (CONT'D)I realize it is far too early inthe relationship to even considercrass implications such as sharinga bed.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I wish more men were as sensitiveto the plight and needs of women,like you are.

ED

I am here to serve you. EXT.BEACH HOUSE DAY Raul stands on the patio. He greets them.

RAULWelcome, my friend. Hope you arein fine spirits.

ED

I am. How have you been?

RAULEverything. And who is thisenchantress?

Raul kisses Catherine's hand.

EDThis is my lady friend, CatherineRiggs.

RAULIt's a pleasure to meet you, mylady.

CATHERINE RIGGS

It's nice to meet you.

RAULPlease, enjoy your stay.

INT. BEACH HOUSE DAY The interior of the house has it's own bar.

EDCare for a drink?

12.

CATHERINE RIGGSSure.

Ed pours a drink and slides it in front of Catherine.

CATHERINE RIGGS (CONT'D)I still can't believe I did this?

ED

What? Drink? I didn't poison it. Catherine smiles.

CATHERINE RIGGSNo, silly. I mean up heave my lifeand run off to Tahiti with a guy Ibarely know.

ED

Well, as Norman Bates famouslysaid, ''We all go a little madsometimes.''

CATHERINE RIGGS

So now I'm like Norman Bates?Terrific.

ED

That's not what I meant. All I wassaying...

Catherine presses the cup to her lips, studying Ed.

ED (CONT'D)Sometimes life becomes laboriouswhen we don't take risks. I meanwho wants to play it safe all thetime?

CATHERINE RIGGS

I've been playing it safe my wholedarn life, and well, I'm just sickof it. Never in my wildest dreams,if you'll excuse the clicheexpression, I never have lostmyself over a guy like you. Imean, it's too early in ourrelationship to talk about beingin love, but...

ED

You are? Catherine looks away briefly.

13.

CATHERINE RIGGSI must sound ridiculous.

Ed lightly guides her lips to his via her chin. INT. BEDROOM NIGHT Ed is reading a book and in walks Catherine, wearing anightie.

CATHERINE RIGGSHey.

Smiling, Ed looks up.

EDHello.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I thought maybe we could share ourbed tonight.

Ed places a book mark in the book and Catherine closes thedoor behind her. EXT. VERANDA DAY Raul and Ed are having lunch.

RAULHow are you enjoying the beachhouse?

ED

It's fine. I thank you for yourhospitality.

RAUL

Where is Catherine?

EDShe's in the game room, playingpool.

RAUL

Splendid. Can we talk business?

EDI suppose.

14.

RAULOne of my girls got her face cutup pretty bad last night. It'sgonna take five hundred grand toreconstruct her face.

ED

Who did it?

RAULJavier Garcia.

ED

Really? I like Javier though.

RAULI wouldn't ask you if i didn'tthink you were the best man forthe job. You're the only bastardthat was capable of killing thatold lady and her granddaughter.

ED

I was off my pills then.

RAULAre you still taking yourmedication?

ED

No. I had to leave in a hurry. Itis too risky for me to go to apharmacy. A detective wasbreathing down my neck, I couldn'treally do anything.

RAUL

I need you to be a little nuts forwhat I need you for.

ED

Well, if I get too wild, put abullet in my brain. And can you doone more favor?

RAUL

Name it, my friend.

EDIf something happens to me, makesure Catherine is taken care of.Okay?

RAUL

It's a done deal.

15.

EDI'm gonna need the proper toolsfor the job.

RAUL

A package will arrive later onthis afternoon. Also, a car anddriver will be provided.

ED

It's nice working with you again.

RAULYou too.

INT. BEACH HOUSE DAY Ed is dressed in baggy sweats, a baggy sweatshirt andscuffed sneakers. Catherine enters the room and when shesees how Ed is dressed, she wears a mask of confusion.

CATHERINE RIGGSYou going to go jogging orsomething?

ED

I've got an errand to run.

CATHERINE RIGGSDressed like that? Even yourpajamas are monogrammed.

ED

I wanted to see how regular peoplelive.

Catherine just looks at Ed.

ED (CONT'D)It was just a joke, hon.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Can I come with you?

EDNo.

Catherine looks hurt.

CATHERINE RIGGSI won't get in your way. Ipromise.

16.

EDI need you to stay here. I won'tbe too long. Okay?

CATHERINE RIGGS

Doesn't sound like I have achoice.

Ed walks over to Catherine and takes her hand and lookslovingly into her eyes.

EDIt's just a little business I haveto take care of. Alright?

They kiss. Catherine nods. Ed hears a car horn honk. Heexits. The car that was promised, pulls up in front of thehouse. Ed climbs in the back seat and the car speeds off.The driver, Carlos, is wearing dark, aviator glasses. Hekeeps his gaze on the road ahead of him.

CARLOSYou'll find the supplies you needin the seat next to you.

He finds a silencer.

CARLOS (CONT'D)Javier thinks you have a dime bagof cocaine. What looks likecocaine, is really powdered sugar.You will find that next to thesilencer. Any questions?

ED

No, sir. I'm ready to crack someskulls.

EXT. HOTEL EVENING

EDAre you coming in with me?

CARLOS

My orders are to sit in the car. Ed slides the silencer in the waist band of his pants andhides it with his shirt. INT. HOTEL ROOM EVENING Ed and Javier sit on opposites beds.

17.

JAVIERHow much do I owe you?

ED

This is a gift from Raul. Javier takes the dime bag from Ed and eyes himsuspiciously.

JAVIERRaul is not usually the kind ofman to give gifts to his clients.

ED

Not many men are as loyal acustomer as you are.

JAVIER

I like your words, I just hopeyou're not trying to fuck me over,as Raul should have told you, I'mnot the kind of man you shouldfuck over.

Javier scurries off to the bathroom. Ed pulls out hissilencer and hides it behind his back. Javier comesscreaming out of the bathroom.

JAVIER (CONT'D)Fucking sugar?

Ed pulls out his gun and fires it. The bullet catchesJavier between the eyes. Ed hurries out of the hotel andclimbs in the back of the car and the car speeds off.

CARLOSTake off your bloody clothes anddump them out the window. I'vebeen given orders to take you backto my house and give you somefresh clothes.

ED

Alright, but I'm leaving myunderwear on, and don't besneaking peeks at me, I don't playthat gay shit. Got it?

CARLOS

Relax, I'm into pussy.

18.

EXT, APARTMENT NIGHT Ed hurries inside. He is wearing a different color sweatsand sweatshirt than the one he wore before. EXT. BEACH HOUSE NIGHT The car pulls in front of the house. Catherine watches fromthe window. INT. BEACH HOUSE NIGHT Ed walks through the door. Catherine notices he is wearingdifferent clothes.

CATHERINE RIGGSYou're wearing different clothes.

ED

Yeah, my old clothes got soiled.

CATHERINE RIGGSWhere'd you get the new clothes?

ED

Bought em.

CATHERINE RIGGSDid you keep the receipt?

ED

I threw it away.

CATHERINE RIGGSAre you cheating on me?

ED

No. Do you see any lipstick on mycollar? Do I smell like women'sperfume?

CATHERINE RIGGS

No. I'm sorry, it's just, you'reso handsome and wonderful, I don'twant to lose you. Forgive mysuspicion?

ED

Nothing to forgive.

CATHERINE RIGGSI'm gonna start dinner.

19.

EDJust have Hilda the maid do it.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Oh the poor thing looked so tired.I gave her the rest of the nightoff. I really don't mind cooking.

ED

Been a while since I've had a homecooked meal, not prepared by amaid.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I'm still having to wrap my headaround the thought of getting usedto living in the lap of luxury.

ED

I'm sorry I don't have a ring, butwill you marry me?

Catherine's mouth drops open.

CATHERINE RIGGSOkay.

ED

Just okay?

CATHERINE RIGGSI'm just in total shock.

She wraps her arms around his neck and hugs him, kissinghim passionately. Tears stream down her cheeks.

CATHERINE RIGGS (CONT'D)What about my mother?

ED

We'll fly her in for the wedding.

CATHERINE RIGGSI love you.

EXT. BEACH HOUSE DAY Ed covers his wife's eyes and leads her outside. She sees ablue ferrari sitting in the drive way. Javier is standingbeside the car. He raises his arms up in the air incelebration and congratulates the couple.

20.

JAVIERI want to congratulate you two ongetting married. I was so excitedfor you two, I had to bestow youboth with this wedding gift.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Oh, Javier, this is much tooextravagant a gift to take fromyou, really.

JAVIER

I would take it as a personalinsult if you did not take thisgift, as a token of friendship.

CATHERINE RIGGS

This is so sweet. Catherine hugs Javier. Afterwards, Javier shakes hands withEd.

JAVIERYou've got a fine wife here. Shereminds me of my Rosalinda, mayshe rest in peace.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I'm so sorry.

JAVIERShe would have appreciated yourconcern, but she would havedetested the thought of hercausing you to grieve for her onthis wondrous occasion.

INT. JEWELRY SHOP DAY She points to her favorite ring and the jeweler grabs itand displays it to her.

EDI want it engraved.

JEWELER

Very good, sir. We'll have thatfor you at the end of the week.

ED

No, you'll have it by thisafternoon.

Ed slides a generous amount of money across the counter.

21.

JEWELERThat's very nice, sir, but like Isaid, you'll have your money bythe end of the week.

Ed stares down the Jeweler.

CATHERINE RIGGSIt's alright, Ed, I can wait.

Ed keeps staring at the Jeweler. Catherine tugs on Ed'sarm.

CATHERINE RIGGS (CONT'D)Ed?

ED

That'll be just fine. Ed and Catherine turn and leave the jewelry shop. Ed isdriving and Catherine is sitting in the passenger seat.

CATHERINE RIGGSIt really is a beautiful ring. Ican't wait to wear it.

ED

Uh huh.

CATHERINE RIGGSEd, don't be that way. It won'thurt you to wait a little while.

ED

I hate to wait. I wanted it thisafternoon. A bride to be shouldn'thave to wait.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I don't particularly care for theway you throw your money inpeople's faces. It will do yousome good to just wait, normalpeople do it all the time.

ED

That's because they have nochoice. Guys like me, we have themoney, we have the power, we cangrab the world by the balls andcontrol it. Control is a finefeeling. It's what separates usfrom the normal people.

(MORE)

22.

ED (CONT'D)The poor, the working class, theyhave no control. They work likedogs, like peasants, for someoneelses money and have to grovel atanother's feet. I don't do that.I'm a winner, and them, they'relosers.

Catherine sits in silence. They continue to drive a ways.She shifts in her seat, fidgets with the radio.

CATHERINE RIGGSI hate seeing you like this. Maybewe should postpone the wedding.

ED

Hey, come on. I was just blowingoff steam. I didn't mean it.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Well, I mean, we did kind of rushinto this.

ED

Maybe we did, but I love you.

CATHERINE RIGGSI love you too, it's just...

ED

Just what?

CATHERINE RIGGSIt's just, we barely know eachother.

ED

Well, what do you want to do?

CATHERINE RIGGSI don't know. Can we just drop it?

ED

Consider it dropped. INT. BEDROOM NIGHT Catherine and Ed are lying in bed.

23.

CATHERINE RIGGSI'm sorry about earlier, I stillwant to marry you.

ED

That's a relief.

CATHERINE RIGGSForgive me?

Ed kisses her lips.

EDYou are forgiven.

VERANDA DAY Raul and Ed are eating lunch.

EDI've been thinking about killing ajeweler.

RAUL

Any reason?

EDJust what I told you on the phone.

RAUL

I advise against that. You're ahit-man for a Tahitian drug lord,you don't want to do that.

ED

Why not?

RAULThere are rules for those of usinvolved in organized crime, andbelieve me, the police aren't aslikely to take the grease for themurder of helpless civilians.

ED

I can't stand for this kind ofinsult.

RAUL

Look at it like this. We got thepoliticians and police in our backpocket, right?

24.

EDThat's right.

RAUL

Well, we kill other criminals, whogets the credit?

ED

Law enforcement.

RAULExactly, now, if we kill regularcitizens, the people turn againstthe police. In turn, the cops turnagainst us and we also lose ourempire because to save place infront of the people, who do theytake down?

ED

Us.

RAULThat's right, And we all knowTahitian prisons are worse thanAmerican Prisons.

EXT. JEWELRY SHOP NIGHT Ed sits in front of the jewelry shop. His silencer sits inthe front seat. He watches the jeweler. Ed grabs thesilencer. He does not lift it. He allows it to lie in theseat, gripping it. The jeweler sees that his shoe isuntied, he bends down and ties it. While he is down there,Ed thinks better of the idea and speeds off. EXT. CHURCH DAY Raul, members of his gang and Catherine's mother.Catherine's mother throws rice at the car as it drives downthe road. VERANDA DAY Catherine, her mother and Ed are all having lunch.

25.

MOMI must admit that I am a littlemiffed that you took my littlegirl so far away from me, but Iknow she's happy, and that makesme happy. I'm just sad that Iwon't be closer to her. Can youlet her visit me every now andthen?

ED

I can do better than that. I'llhave to talk to Raul, but you canmove here and we'll set you upnearby, and you can come overwhenever you'd like.

MOM

I'd feel like a freeloader. Ed leans in and points at his mother in law.

EDYou're Ed Coons' mother in law, asfar as I'm concerned, you deservethe finest.

MOM

You're such a kind man. I thinkI'm going to cry.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Mom, please. If you cry, I'llstart balling.

Ed uses his cellphone to call Raul. He laughs, hangs up andaddresses his mother in law.

EDHector, he's a refined gentleman,about your age. Twenty three.

He says this with a wink. Mom blushes.

ED (CONT'D)He is initially from Italy. He hasagreed to allow you to stay withhim.

MOM

I don't know what to say.

EDJust say yes.

26.

MOMAs long as I'm really notimposing.

ED

I'll have some members of Raul'screw fly to the states and getyour things for you.

MOM

That's so kind. But you shouldn'tgo through so much trouble for me.

ED

We're family. And if you can'trely on family, who can you relyon?

INT. BEDROOM NIGHT

CATHERINE RIGGSI want to thank you for being sogood to my mother.

ED

I meant what I said. Family isimportant to me. Lord knows Ididn't really have a familygrowing up?

CATHERINE RIGGS

Really?

EDYep. I was raised by my mother. Mydad ran out when I was three. Shenever forgave him for that and shetook it out on me. Her favoritepunishment for me was locking mein the closet, sometimes forhours. No food, no water, and Ihad to kneel.

CATHERINE RIGGS

That's awful.

EDCan't change the past.

INT. HECTOR'S HOUSE NIGHT Hector and Mom sit at the kitchen table playing poker.

27.

MOMYou're cheating.

HECTOR

You insult me. I never cheat.

MOMYou're cheating right now.

HECTOR

Senora, I promise you, I do notcheat.

MOM

I'm very tired. I'm going to bed.

HECTORWould you like some company?

MOM

Now you see here, I know yousmooth talking Italian men areknown to be suave.

Mom looks at Hector's lips.

MOM (CONT'D)And handsome, but I will not endup a notch in your bedpost.Goodnight.

HECTOR

Goodnight, and may your dreams beas beautiful as you are.

Mom hides her smile and turns and goes off to bed. INT. BEACH HOUSE DAY Catherine sits on her sofa, talking to her mother on thecellphone.

CATHERINE RIGGSIs Hector behaving himself?

Hector interrupts on the phone.

HECTORYour mother is an animal. Shecan't keep her hands off me.

Catherine laughs.

28.

MOMThis man has been a deviant eversince I got here, and he cheats atcards.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Mom, i hear static on your end.What is that?

MOM

I don't know, dear. Maybe someoneis listening to our phone call.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I'd hate to think that. Dressed in golf clothes and carrying a golf bag slung overhis shoulder, Ed leaves. Moments after he leaves, Two men in ski masks and wieldingguns, break into the beach house and force her into theback of a van. The van speeds off.

CATHERINE RIGGS (CONT'D)I don't know who you are, butplease don't hurt me.

The driver is named Alberto.

ALBERTOYour husband killed my brother,Javier. I am paying him back.

CATHERINE RIGGS

There must be some mistake. Myhusband would never kill anyone.

ALBERTO

Your husband is a contract killer.He works for Javier, who is a druglord.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I don't believe any of this.

ALBERTOI'm afraid I'm telling you thetruth.

EXT. GOLF COURSE DAY Ed's cellphone rings. He answers it.

29.

EDHello?

ALBERTO

This is Alberto. You killed mybrother, you fucking swine, andnow, I have your wife. You wanther, meet me at the warehouse.

ED

Fuck! Ed calls Raul.

ED (CONT'D)Hey. Alberto's got Catherine. Ineed your help tracking this pieceof shit down.

RAUL

I'll have a crew assembled andthey'll be at your locationshortly.

A car pulls up and races towards the warehouse. WAREHOUSE DAY The car pulls up and Ed and the other three men hop out,carrying their guns.

EDYou two, go in the back way, Jimand I will checkout the wall.

The other two men headed toward the back. Ed and Jim scaledthe wall and got on the roof. They slide out part of theglass ceiling and climb in. From their perched positions,they take out a guard each with their silencers. In the center of the floor is Alberto. He is holding a gunto the back of Catherine's head.

ALBERTOCome on out, Ed. Unless you wantyour wife's brains to decorate myfloor.

Ed lines up his shot and squeezes the trigger. Albertofalls over dead. Ed hurries and unties his wife. She throws her arms around hugs him, heaving, shaking, andcrying.

30.

EDDid he hurt you?

CATHERINE RIGGS

I'm fine. He said, h-he saidterrible things about you.

ED

What did he say? Looking into her husband's eyes, Catherine hesitates.

CATHERINE RIGGSHe said you were a killer forhire. Is it true?

Ed returns his wife's gaze.

EDAll true. That's the reason I hadto leave the states. I had gottencompulsive, killed a grandmotherand her granddaughter. I wasn't onmy medication then, as a matter offact, I still am not, but I'm finenow. I'm cured.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I can't believe I murdered akiller.

ED

Hit man.

CATHERINE RIGGSHow could I be so blind?

ED

I'm still the same guy, nothingchanges.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I wish I could believe that, butyou lied to me.

ED

Would you have still loved me if Idid?

CATHERINE RIGGS

I don't know. What else haven'tyou told me? Is Raul a drug lord?

ED

Well...

31.

CATHERINE RIGGSOh my God, he is! isn't he.

Ed nods. She sees the other three men with guns.

CATHERINE RIGGS (CONT'D)Are these men more gangsters?

ED

Friends of Raul.

CATHERINE RIGGSTake me home, I need some rest.

ED

As you wish. INT. HECTOR'S HOUSE NIGHT

HECTORSenora, I was hoping to ask foryour company for dinner tonight atThe Lotus Restaurant.

MOM

You're paying?

HECTORSi, Senora.

MOM

I'll go on one condition.

HECTORWhat is it, Senora?

MOM

Call me Diana.

HECTORAs you wish, Diana.

Mom smiles. INT. LOTUS RESTAURANT NIGHT

MOMThe ambiance in here is simplywonderful.

HECTOR

I notice nothing but your bigbrown eyes.

32.

MOMIs your tongue a florist? Becauseyou're speech is flowery.

HECTOR

I cannot help but be amorousaround a beautiful woman like you.

MOM

You're quite charming, and areextremely debonair.

HECTOR

But?

MOMWhen my Charles died, I vowed tonever fall in love again.

HECTOR

My Carmen was once the love of mylife, may she rest in peace. Foryears I thought, no one canreplace her, but, I have beenalone for a long time, and I knowsomewhere, your Charles, and myCarmen, are looking down upon usand saying, unite, you fools.

Mom raises her champagne glass and so does Hector.

HECTOR (CONT'D)What shall we toast to?

MOM

To new beginnings.

HECTORTo new beginnings.

Hector and Mom clink their champagne glasses. INT. BEACH HOUSE DAY Catherine wakes up and puts on her bathrobe. INT. KITCHEN DAY Catherine walks into the kitchen. She notices her husbandis cooking breakfast.

CATHERINE RIGGSIs there any coffee?

33.

EDOver there, by the microwave.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Thanks. Where's the maid?

EDI let her go. Figured I couldstand to cook for myself.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I didn't know you could cook.

EDYeah, used to study with a cheffrom France.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Finding out all kinds of thingsabout you.

ED

I'm sorry about not being honestwith you...

CATHERINE RIGGS

I didn't mean those things. True,I was alarmed at first, but aftersome rest, I thought, I don't careyou're a hit man.

ED

You don't?

CATHERINE RIGGSYou saved me.

ED

From the warehouse? You mean?

CATHERINE RIGGSI meant from myself. Before I metyou; all I was was just a lowlylibrarian, living in a tinyapartment in New York, and now,I'm like Cinderella.

ED

If she were married to TonySoprano. Ha ha.

CATHERINE RIGGS

You're so adventurous, you don'tseem to be afraid of anything.

34.

EDThat's not true. I was terrifiedof losing you last night.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I was terrified too, that's why Iwant you to teach me how shootguns.

ED

Why?

CATHERINE RIGGSI know karate, but that won'tdefend against a gun.

Montage of Ed training Catherine how to shoot. EXT. GUN RANGE DAY

CATHERINE RIGGSThis is fun, I want to do what youdo.

ED

I've been shooting guns since Iwas ten, that'll take a lifetimeof commitment.

CATHERINE RIGGS

No, I mean contract killing.

EDYou can't be serious?

CATHERINE RIGGS

The thrill of shooting a gun, Ihad no idea it would be soexhilarating.

ED

Taking a human life is seriousbusiness.

CATHERINE RIGGS

You do it all the time.

EDI also used to have nightmaresalso.

35.

CATHERINE RIGGSYou said yourself you usually onlykill bad guys. In a way, you'relike a vigilante. I want to be onetoo.

ED

Look, I just don't think it's agood idea.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Don't be a hypocrite. Let me doit. Is it because I'm a woman?

ED

No, you're my wife. It's adangerous business. I don't wantyou getting hurt.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Oh for God's sake. I'm not goingto get hurt.

ED

You were kidnapped already. Idon't want to take that risk.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I'm tired of playing it safe. Iwant to be bad.

ED

I can talk to Raul and maybe youcan be a drug runner.

CATHERINE RIGGS

No. I want to be a contractkiller.

ED

I'll talk to Raul and see if he'sgot any work for you.

Catherine smiles.

CATHERINE RIGGSThanks, babe.

ED

Yeah. INT. WAREHOUSE NIGHT Raul, Catherine and Ed are huddled together.

36.

RAULI need one of you to introducethis Louisville Slugger to hisknees.

ED

I'll do it. Raul hands the bat to Ed.

RAULI need you to introduce thisbullet to his brain.

Raul hands Catherine the gun. He shows the person toCatherine and Ed.

RAUL (CONT'D)This man is Poppy Daniels. He is aknown pedophile. Now, I'm notgonna lie, this is a dangerousmission. He's a well respectedpolitician here in Tahiti. He'svirtually untouchable, even Youmay become marked persons, and ifany police come looking for you, Idon't know either of you.Understood?

ED

Any clearer and it'd be crystal.

RAULGood. And you?

CATHERINE RIGGS

I understand.

EDHow much are we getting?

RAUL

Five hundred grand, each.

CATHERINE RIGGSFive hundred grand? Are youscamming us? That's chump change.

ED

Relax. Don't blow this.

CATHERINE RIGGSSorry, it's just so cool being agangster.

37.

EDForgive my wife's overzealousnature. She's excited. It's herfirst time.

RAUL

Well, may this be a memorableexperience for you.

Raul turns to Ed.

RAUL (CONT'D)You know how to drive a manualtransmission. Right?

ED

For sure.

RAULExcellent. The van is waitingoutside for you. Meet him at thisaddress.

Raul hands a piece of paper with an address on it to Ed. INT. VAN NIGHT

EDYou excited about your first hit?

CATHERINE RIGGS

You bet ya.

EDIf you feel nauseous, I'llunderstand. Also, you don't wantto be too nervous. If you don'tthink you can do this, I'llunderstand.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I want to do this. I'm so excited,I can't stand it. I feel like akid on Christmas morning.

ED

You'll want to keep your witsabout you. Take all emotion out ofit. Emotions can lead to mistakes.We cannot afford to make amistake. You ever play sports?

38.

CATHERINE RIGGSPlayed a little tennis in HighSchool.

ED

I'm sure your coach delivered afew inspirational speeches everynow and then.

CATHERINE RIGGS

She did.

EDConsider me your coach. Listen tome, we cannot afford to make anymistakes. If we botch this, wecould both be dead. Got it?

CATHERINE RIGGS

I got it. EXT. HOTEL NIGHT In the distance, we hear a siren of some sort, a dogbarking and people yelling. Catherine places her gun in hergarter belt. She is wearing a thigh high black skirt and adark blouse. Catherine knocks three times and they both wait. Ed has hisbat ready. Poppy opens the door, but only a crack.

EDI hear you're looking for a goodtime.

POPPY

Is she the girl?

EDYeah, that's the girl.

POPPY

She's a brunette. I like blondes.

EDA little birdy tells me you alsolike them a little younger,senator, but, beggars can't bechoosers.

POPPY

Who's your source? Is it Raul?He's always lying on me.

39.

EDLook, pal, do you want to party,or don't you?

POPPY

Alright, you pushy little fucker.How much?

ED

Hundred for head, two hundred foreverything.

POPPY

She's not worth that much.

CATHERINE RIGGSI'll have you know that's a veryfair price.

POPPY

Come in. Ed enters first, followed by Catherine. Ed swings the batand takes out one of Poppy's knees. He falls to the floorand Ed crushes the other knee. Poppy lets out wails ofagony.

POPPY (CONT'D)You bastard! Who sent you?

ED

I work for Raul, asshole.

POPPYHe set me up. He'll kill you toowhen he's through with you. Yourealize that. Don't you?

ED

He was the best man at my wedding.Not gonna happen.

POPPY

You keep on thinking that. Yourtime is coming.

Catherine removes the gun from her garter belt and pointsit between Poppy's eyes. Poppy spits on Catherine's shoes.

POPPY (CONT'D)Whore. May you burn in Hell.

Catherine squeezes the trigger. The room fills with awhite, hot flash of light. They hurry from the hotel roomand hustle into the van. It is now storming.

40.

INT. VAN NIGHT

EDHow you feeling?

CATHERINE RIGGS

Not sure, my ears are stillringing a bit.

ED

Usually Raul gives me a silencer.Maybe since you're new, he decidedto give you a light hazing.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I'm honored, I think. INT. WAREHOUSE NIGHT The van pulls up in front of the warehouse and Raul stepsup to the driver's seat window, holding an umbrella. Raulgives Ed the suitcase of money. Ed hands the suitcase to his wife and she opens it. Shepicks up a wad of cash and smells it. She clucks withdelight. EXT. VERANDA DAY Catherine and Ed are eating lunch.

CATHERINE RIGGSLast night was incredible. Such arush.

ED

You get used to it after a while.

CATHERINE RIGGSIt's an adrenaline rush. Wow, it'sintense. Better than sex.

ED

Ouch.

CATHERINE RIGGSNothing against you, my love. It'sjust, to have the awesome power oftaking a life. Wow. It's sobestial. Primal. We're hunters.

ED

Funny, thought I was a Scorpio.

41.

CATHERINE RIGGSYou're such a dork.

INT. NIGHTCLUB NIGHT Ed and Catherine are dancing together. They step off thedance floor, laughing. They sit down at a table. Acrossfrom them, sits Gina and Raul.

RAULThis is my girlfriend, Gina.

ED

If he gives you a hard time, justsmack him.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Stop it. You're terrible. Hi,Gina. How are you?

GINA

I'm good, honey. The girls continue to chat, but the sound of the music inthe club drown it out, but we hear Raul and Ed talking.

RAULIt looks like Gina and Catherineare really hitting it off.

ED

It would appear so.

RAULI just want to remind you thatsome of Poppy's goons might comesniffing around your place soon.Be alert. You might want to warnthe Mrs.

ED

I'll stay alert enough for theboth of us. Don't want to panicher.

RAUL

We all have to lie to our womenevery now and then, eh?

ED

Occasionally. Gina and Catherine head off to the bathroom together. Theyreturn shortly. Ed notices his wife's eyes.

42.

ED (CONT'D)Your pupils are dilated.

GINA

I let her play in the snow.

EDDammit, I don't want my wifegetting hooked on that shit.

GINA

Relax, a lot of people around heredo it.

ED

A lot of people aren't my wife.

RAULTake it easy. My girl didn't meanany harm.

ED

Check with me first before doingsomething like that.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I'm not a child. I can do what Iwant.

ED

Cocaine can do crazy shit topeople. Especially in our line ofwork. I told you you need a clearhead to do what we do.

RAUL

Gina promises that she won't doanything like that again.

Raul looks at his wife.

RAUL (CONT'D)Right?

Gina looks at Ed. Ed looks back at her.

GINASure. I promise.

INT. HECTOR'S HOUSE NIGHT Hector and Mom are eating by candle light. Romantic musicis playing in the background and the lights are dimmed. Momis dressed in elegant pearls and an elegant dress.

43.

Hector is dressed in a suit.

MOMI don't know how my daughter willfeel about me dating another manthat isn't her father.

HECTOR

She's a grown woman. I'm sure sherealizes you are a woman withneeds and don't want to spend therest of your life alone.

Masked men, armed with guns break into the house. Theyshoot Hector and drag Mom away kicking and screaming. Themasked men force her in the van and speed off.

MOMWho are you? What do you men wantwith me?

The driver scolds her.

JOSEJust shut up, lady. Before we haveto blow your fucking head off. Youread me?

Mom clams up. Her eyes dart back and forth.

MOMIs it money you want? I don't havemuch, but my son in law is verywealthy. He can pay whatever youwant, just please, let an old ladygo, huh?

JOSE

Lady, you don't know what's goingon with that daughter of yours andher husband. Do you?

MOM

What do you mean?

JOSEYou ever hear of Poppy Daniels?

MOM

You mean that senator that wasgunned down in his hotel room?

44.

JOSEYep. We're his supporters, and wedon't like that you killed ourconnection. You see, my twofriends here, and myself, webelong to an organization known asVenom. Most would consider us aterrorist organization. We believein one true religion.

MOM

What's that?

JOSEThe religion of Venom. We wanteveryone to depend on us for alltheir basic needs. Food, clothingand shelter. We have templeserected in numerous slums here inTahiti. All we ask for is thereundying gratitude. Our membersgrow by the thousands daily.Slowly but surely, we are evenstarting to infiltrate othercountries.

MOM

What do you want with us?

JOSEWe want to use you as bait. Weknow your daughter will come saveyou and when she does, we'll killher and her husband.

MOM

What will you do with me?

JOSEYour best option is to cooperatewith us entirely. If you do not,your blood will be spilled.

INT. NIGHT CLUB NIGHT Ed's cellphone rings. He answers it.

EDHello?

JOSE

We have your mother in law. If youever want to see her again, comeand find her in New York.

45.

Ed whispers in his wife's ear. Her face grows dire. Edinforms Raul what's going on too.

RAULI've got a private jet we can alluse.

Raul turns to Gina.

RAUL (CONT'D)We'll have to leave the coke here,Gina.

Gina rolls her eyes.

GINAI know that.

Montage of Ed dying his hair. Raul pilots his plane andparks it in a warehouse. In the back, they have two fullcases of dynamite and guns. EXT. TRAFFIC LIGHT DAY An elderly woman driving a blue station wagon is waiting ata red light. Raul pulls a gun and shoves it in the oldlady's face.

RAULSorry madam, but my friends and Imust acquire your vehicle.

OLD LADY

Get lost, Paco. She tries to drive away, but Raul forces open the door andshoves her out of the vehicle and Gina, Raul, Ed andCatherine all climb into the car and speed off. Unbeknownstto them, a police officer in a parked car witnesses thewhole time. He follows at a distance to avoid suspicion.

RAULWe're going to need a pick me up.How about some coffee?

EXT. COFFEE SHOP Raul parks the station wagon and the four people insideenter the coffee shop. The Officer Buzz-worth parks across the street from thecoffee shop and gets on his radio.

46.

OFFICER BUZZ-WORTHI'm gonna need backup. Thesuspects just went into the coffeeshop.

Officer Buzz-worth heads into the coffee shop. Cut to scene of Jose and the rest of the venom members thathad kidnapped Mom getting arrested by police. Jose'sarresting officer is Dennis Roth. INT. COFFEE SHOP Officer Buzz-worth walks into the coffe shop. Soft music isplaying. Officer Buzz-worth walks up behind Raul and pointsa gun in the back of his head.

OFFICER BUZZ-WORTHFreeze, asshole.

Gina pulls a gun and shoots the officer in the head. Awoman screams.

EDShit, let's go.

As the four people try to exit, they notice the outside ofthe coffee shop is surrounded by police.

ED (CONT'D)Fuck, we got a hostage situationnow.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Like Dog Day Afternoon?

RAULIt's a dog day afternoon alright.Damn. Should have just let himarrest me.

GINA

I couldn't do that to you, baby.Besides, we all would have gonedown. I'm not going to prison.They're going to have to kill me.

RAUL

That's what I'm afraid of.

EDWe're not going out like that.

Ed takes his gun out.

47.

ED (CONT'D)Ladies and gentlemen, in case itisn't painfully obvious already,this is a hostage situation. Noneof us want to have kill you, butobviously, as Gina hasdemonstrated, we will. Pleasecooperate, we are all desperatepeople in a desperate situation.

Bob steps up to Ed. He is elderly and wearing a VFW hat. heslaps Ed.

BOBThere are women and children inhere. if any of them get hurt,I'll come down upon you all withthe wrath of the lord.

Bob slaps Ed.

CATHERINE RIGGSDon't slap my husband. Do you wantto die?

ED

Please, stop.

BOBWhen people like you die, you diewithout honor.

On the megaphone, Officer Mitchel gets on the horn.

OFFICER MITCHELWe got you four surrounded. If youdon't come out, things are goingto get ugly.

Ed rushes to the door.

EDWe have hostages in here. They arethe only thing keeping us allalive. If you don't back off,we're going to start piling up thebodies.

OFFICER MITCHEL

We don't want anything to get tooout of hand.

48.

EDWe're not doing this forourselves. We're trying to savesomeone.

OFFICER MITCHEL

Who are you trying to save?

EDWe can't exactly say, but trustme, someone's life hangs in thebalance, if we don't get theresoon, it may be too late.

OFFICER MITCHEL

Listen, pal. If someone is indanger, tell us who it is, andwe'll take care of it. We're thepolice.

ED

Well, we don't know where theperson is, but we know she's beenkidnapped.

OFFICER MITCHEL

And what's this person's name?

EDHer name is Diana Riggs.

OFFICER MITCHEL

Who is she? Catherine looks around. She drops the gun she is holding tothe floor. She looks around. She notices the old man withthe VFW hat is glowering at her. She notices the motherholding her infant son, quivering with fear. She looks atthe cops surrounding the building.

CATHERINE RIGGSWhat have I become?

Catherine steps up to the door.

OFFICER MITCHELShe's my mother.

Catherine kisses Ed. Turning to him, she says

CATHERINE RIGGSI'm turning myself in.

Ed kisses her and Gina, Ed and Raul watch Catherine walkout the front door and she is forced to the ground.

49.

EDThey're being too rough with her.I should go out there.

Raul stops Ed.

RAULYou step out that door, and you'reSwiss-cheese.

ED

I hate seeing her manhandled likethat.

RAUL

Look at it this way, they'll goeasier since she turned herselfin, they don't know she's killedpeople in Tahiti. She might evenget off early for good behavior.Whereas, us, well...

ED

We're gonna fry.

RAULYou said it.

GINA

Remember, we're in charge. We'vegot the hostages. We call theshots around here.

RAUL

That'll only last so long, babygirl. These people got to eat. Weall got to eat sometime, andeventually, so do all thesehostages.

GINA

Think positive. We can figure away out of here. I got it. Anyonehere have a cellphone?

A heavyset wearing plaid steps up.

HEAVYSET MANI do.

GINA

Give it here. The heavyset man gives her his cellphone.

50.

She dials a number.

GINA (CONT'D)Listen, we need forty men to boarda plane and get to Manhattan, now!

Thirteen hours pass. Forty of Raul's men starting shooting.

GINA (CONT'D)Quick, let's rush out and sneakaway.

RAUL

We'll steal a cop car.

EDYou really think it'll work?

RAUL

It has to.

EDLet's go.

Gina and Raul both look at Ed. Flashback sequence: Ed remembers some of the dates he hasbeen on with Catherine. Flashback sequence ends. New flash back sequence begins Ed remembers all the times that he and Catherine killedtogether. Flashback sequence ends. Ed pulls out his gun and shoots Gina and Raul. The peopleall scream inside the coffee shop. He takes one look backat those people and exits the coffee shop. Ed drops his gunto the ground and he is swarmed by the police. He isarrested and the people inside the coffee shop cheer. INT. POLICE STATION Detective Hobs stands over Catherine

HOBSWhy did you take those peoplehostage?

51.

CATHERINE RIGGSI don't know.

HOBS

Was it some kind of ganginitiation?

CATHERINE RIGGS

No.

HOBSWhat made you do it?

Catherine looks in Hobs' eyes.

CATHERINE RIGGSLove.

Hobs looks at Catherine.

HOBSYou're gonna have to do betterthan that.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Didn't The Beatles say ''All YouNeed is Love?

HOBS

Well, you're gonna need a lawyer. EXT. COFFEE SHOP News reporter Kira Sandoval stands next to police chief JimRussel.

KIRAPolice Chief Russel, did thesuspect say why he took thosepeople in the coffee shop hostage?

POLICE CHIEF RUSSEL

He says he did it for love.

KIRAThey say love makes us do crazythings.

POLICE CHIEF RUSSEL

I guess so.

52.

INT. HOLDING CELL NIGHT The Lawyer, Gus Chase, sits next to Catherine on her bed.

GUSYour best option is don't sayanything without clearing it withme first. Okay?

KIRA

Okay.

GUSGreat. Those prosecuting attorneyscan be quite the clevertricksters. Anything you say, theywill twist to attack you. They canmost definitely play hardball.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I'd like to confess to everything.

GUSThat's not a good idea.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I've hurt a lot of people, and Imust repent.

GUS

It's your choice. Just know thatyou are making a terrible mistake.

CATHERINE RIGGS (SHRUGGING)

It's mine to make. INT. COURTROOM The Judge looks down at Catherine with contempt.

JUDGECatherine Ann Riggs, The state ofNew York finds you guilty ofmurder and sentences you to lifein prison.

INT. DIFFERENT COURT ROOM A female judge looks down at Ed.

GIRL JUDGEThe state of New York sentencesyou, Edward Tyson Coons to Death.

53.

INT. PRISON CELL Catherine sits on her bed, reading a romance novel. Hercellmate, Bertha, glares at her.

BERTHAWhat are you in here for?

CATHERINE RIGGS

I'm a killer. Bertha smirks.

BERTHAYou don't look like a killer tome.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Looks can be deceiving.

BERTHAWell, I run this place.

CATHERINE RIGGS

That's nice. Bertha rips Catherine's book out of her hand and tosses itto the cell. Bertha towers over Catherine.

CATHERINE RIGGS (CONT'D)I just want to read my book inpeace.

BERTHA

You look like the rich, white typethat's had everything handed toher on a silver platter.

CATHERINE RIGGS

You sound like you have a lot ofunresolved anger. Care to talkabout it?

BERTHA

I don't want nothing from you,Goldilocks, just stay out of myway.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I'll make sure to do that.

54.

INT. GUEST ROOM NIGHT Catherine and her mother sit on opposite sides of thePlexiglass. Mom is clearly upset.

MOMHow are you doing?

CATHERINE RIGGS

I'm doing well.

MOMYou look thin. Are you eatingwell?

CATHERINE RIGGS

The food's real shit.

MOMI'd imagine so.

CATHERINE RIGGS

How are you doing, mom?

MOMNumb?

CATHERINE RIGGS

What do you mean?

MOMMy daughter's serving a lifesentence for murder. You brokeyour mother's heart, you know?

CATHERINE RIGGS

Mom, please.

MOMYou were such a good girl; did Edget you into killing?

CATHERINE RIGGS

I take responsibility for myactions. I'm in this place becauseof the choices I made.

MOM

You were such a sweet little girl.You used to go out of your way tohelp people.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Please stop.

55.

MOMI remember your cousin, Owen haddropped his ice cream cone on theground, and you gave him yours.

CATHERINE RIGGS

You're gonna make me cry. They hang up the phone. They place their hands on theglass. The guard leads her back to her cell. INT. PRISON CAFETERIA DAY A woman sits down across from Catherine. Catherine does notlook up from her book.

ERICAYou like those romance books?

CATHERINE RIGGS

Yep. Do you?

ERICAI can't read.

Catherine looks up from the book.

CATHERINE RIGGSIf you want, I could teach you toread.

Erica smiles at this.

ERICAReally? You'd do that?

CATHERINE RIGGS

Of course. What got you here,honey?

ERICA

Grand theft auto. You?

CATHERINE RIGGSLove.

ERICA

Did you chop up your husband? Orsome crazy shit like that?

56.

CATHERINE RIGGSNo. My husband and I were contractkillers?

ERICA

No way. Are you shitting me?

CATHERINE RIGGSIt's even crazier how it allhappened.

ERICA

I got time, girl. Shit, we areboth in prison.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Well, my husband's namewas Ed Coons. I firstmet him when I wasworking as a librarian.Sparks flew, and beforeI knew it, he had mewhisked away to Tahiti,where we were married.Soon after we weremarried, he told me hewas a contract killer.You have to understandthis, before I met Ed, Icould not have beentechnically qualified asa woman. I had nevereven kissed a guy atthat point. I feltunfulfilled. Thisbeautiful man let melive in the lap ofluxury. I mean we hadlunch on the Veranda, mywedding gift was a blueFerari.

ERICA

Damn, girl. That sounds nice.

CATHERINE RIGGSI felt just like Cinderella. I wasdefinitely not going to let thisgo. No one was perfect. I becamecurious. The criminal life seemedfascinating. We even did hitstogether. It brought us together,in some weird way. Then thingswent bad.

57.

ERICABad?

Catherine nods. Erica leans in to hear more of the story.

CATHERINE RIGGSMy mom was kidnapped by terroristsand we were forced to come back tothe states. Had to steal a car andwent into a coffee shop and woundup having to take the peopleinside hostage. Well, suddenly itdawned on me, I've hurt a lot ofpeople. At that moment, I felt asthough I had been awakened from awalking dream. I saw thosehostages and saw the fear anddesperation in their eyes, andknew I was causing it. I turnedmyself into the cops.

ERICA

Woah. MAN'S PRISON SHOWER NIGHT Ed is showering. Jose strangles Ed with piano wire whileanother inmate shanks him in the gut. Blood pours into thedrain. Ed lets the man drop to the floor. FEMALE PRISON REC YARD DAY Catherine is helping teach Erica to read. A giant shadowfalls over Catherine and Erica.

CATHERINE RIGGSYou're blocking my light.

BERTHA

I see you're helping the stupidgirl.

ERICA

Eat, shit. You whale! Bertha lifts Erica up and gets up in her face.

BERTHAYou better watch yourself, bitch.Or you'll be pissing blood.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Leave her alone. Will ya?

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BERTHAButt out, bitch.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Real mature. Knock it off.

BERTHAThis mouthy broad needs to learnsome manners.

CATHERINE RIGGS

Just leave her alone. Bertha shoves Erica to the ground. Erica scrambles up toher feet and lunges for Bertha, but Bertha puts Erica in achoke hold. On the high tower, the armed guard shootsaround the fighting women's feet. This stops the girls fromfighting. Bertha walks away. Catherine helps Erica to herfeet.

ERICAYou could have jumped in to helpme.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I told you, I've hurt enoughpeople. I want to live a life ofpeace.

ERICA

You're already a broken bitch. Youthink Saint Peter is gonna let agirl like you into the Pearlygates.

CATHERINE RIGGS

My soul is weighted down with theblood of those I killed, but Ialso know, I don't want my soul tobe burdened with any new sins. So,I refrain.

ERICA

It's all very Zen, but this isprison. You have to stay alert.

CATHERINE RIGGS

I can teach you how to fight. Ifyou would like. In addition tobeing a librarian, I was also aKarate instructor.

ERICA

You're starting to make me feellike a charity case.

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CATHERINE RIGGSI was reminded of something I usedto be, I'd like to get some ofthat back.

ERICA

You can't live in the past.

CATHERINE RIGGSI'm well aware of that. If thatwere not true, do you not think Iwould still be married to myhusband?

ERICA

Even though you know he was acontract killer, and he wouldeventually lead to living a lifein prison?

CATHERINE RIGGS

Yes, because life without purpose,is the worst prison of all.

INT. CELL NIGHT Bertha shaves Catherine's hair while Catherine sleeps. Thenext morning, Catherine wakes up and heads over to the sinkand splashes some cold water on her face. She notices herhair is missing in the small, rectangular mirror.

CATHERINE RIGGSDid you do this?

Bertha snorts.

BERTHAUh huh.

Rubbing the top of her head, Catherine just shrugs.

CATHERINE RIGGSI needed a haircut. Thanks.

Bertha grunts. Bertha lunges at her. Catherine evades her, grabs her arm,breaks Bertha's elbow. Bertha's wails of anguish alert theguards and Catherine is thrown into solitary confinement. SOLITARY CONFINEMENT DAY Catherine sits there. She has no book to read.

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The Devil's Romance by Doug J Robbins

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Transcript of The Devil's Romance by Doug J Robbins