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Author: Cariann |
Ext. Capeside Near the Docks (Day 1)
Dawson walks along the streets of Capeside obviously on his way somewhere. He turns and heads in the direction of the docks. As he walks by the docks, he glances over and pain flashes across his face. Following his gaze, we see Pacey and Joey sharing a kiss on the deck of True Love. Joey has her arms wrapped around his neck, and Pacey has his hands resting on her butt. They pull apart and Pacey says something that makes Joey laugh. She throws her head back in laughter, and Pacey takes this opportunity to kiss her neck. Dawson turns away and practically runs from the docks.
ACT 1
Ext. Aboard True Love (Day 1)
Continued from Pacey and Joey kissing in the Teaser. As Pacey kisses her neck, Joey runs her hands through his hair. She pulls his mouth to hers and kisses him deeply. They pull apart.
Pacey: (breathlessly) Ready Potter?
Joey: (just as out of breathe) As ready as I�ll ever be.
Joey steps away from him and smoothes her hair. Pacey runs his hand through his hair, but only makes it more disheveled.
Pacey: So how do you wanna do this?
Joey: What do you mean?
Pacey: Do you want me to go with you to see Bessie?
Joey thinks about it for a moment.
Joey: No, I should go alone. You go see Doug.
Pacey: Okay. (seeing her nervousness, Pacey runs his hands reassuringly up her arms) Are you going to be okay?
Joey: Yeah. I�m just nervous. I mean Bessie has been nice on the phone and all, but she wasn�t too happy I took off for the summer.
Pacey: I�m sorry Jo.
Joey: I�m not. I mean I�m sorry I left her like I did, but I�m not sorry I left.
Pacey kisses her quickly on the lips.
Pacey: Can I see you later?
Joey: I was counting on it.
Pacey: I don�t know what I�m going to do not being with every minute of every day.
Joey: Probably keep on breathing.
Pacey: Are you trying to say I got on your nerves?
Joey: That�s a nice way of putting it, but come on Pacey admit it, didn�t you ever just want to me to go away for a while.
Pacey: (seriously) Never.
Joey: (running the back of her hand down his cheek) I�m going to miss you too.
Pacey kisses her knuckles. He takes both of her hands in his, and steps away from her.
Pacey: I�ll call you.
Joey steps away from him letting her hands fall from his grasp.
Joey: Wish me luck.
Joey climbs down from True Love and her feet hit the dock. She was really back in Capeside now. She starts to walk away but Pacey calls out to her.
Pacey: Hey Jo.
Joey turns around and looks at Pacey expectantly.
Pacey: I love you.
A huge grin breaks onto Joey�s face.
Joey: And I love you, Pacey Witter.
Pacey smiles, and Joey walks away.
Int. McPhee�s Kitchen
Andie is making herself a sandwich at the kitchen counter when she hears a knock on the back door.
Andie: (looking towards the door) Who is it?
Dawson: (OS) Dawson, can I come in?
Andie wipes her hands on a towel, and sets it back on the counter. Andie walks to the door, and opens it revealing an agitated Dawson.
Andie: Of course you can... (her voice trails off at the end as she sees Dawson�s in a state of anxiety, anger, and pain.) Dawson�s what�s wrong?
Andie reaches out and rests her hand on his shoulder.
Dawson: I saw them. (Dawson walks into the kitchen and begins pacing) I saw them not ten minutes ago.
Andie: Pacey and Joey?
Dawson: (looking at her like she�s stupid) Of course Pacey and Joey. Who else??
Andie: What did you say?
Dawson: Say?? I didn�t say anything, not that I could have anyways they were all over each other.
Andie tries to still Dawson�s rapid pacing by gently grabbing his arm.
Andie: I�m so sorry Dawson.
Dawson stops and looks into Andie�s eyes. The obvious pain in his eyes encourages Andie to wrap her arms around him in a hug.
Andie: At least the hard part is over now.
Dawson: The hard part?
Andie: Seeing them for the first time.
Dawson: I don�t think I�m ever going to get used to seeing them like that.
Andie: I know.
Dawson steps out of her embrace.
Dawson: It is going to get easier though right?
Andie: Yeah, I think it will.
Silence falls over them.
Andie: I was making a sandwich, want one?
Dawson: (nodding) Do you mind?
Andie: Not at all.
Andie walks back over to the counter, and starts making another sandwich.
Dawson: They looked so happy together. I mean, I can�t help but wonder if I ever made her that happy.
Andie: You did Dawson.
Dawson: But I don�t anymore.
Andie: Being her friend will make her happy.
Dawson: Her friend?
Andie: Yes her friend. It�s hard at first, but eventually you�ll see that being just her friend is better than not being in her life at all.
Dawson: I just don�t know if I can do it.
Andie: Maybe not now, but in time Dawson. You have to stop thinking that everything has to be right, and make sense right now. It�s not okay, and it doesn�t make sense right now. You�re hurt, angry, sad, and confused. The answers will only come to you when you let yourself feel what you�re feeling instead of trying to dictate how you feel by how you think you should feel.
Dawson: (with a smile) Have you ever considered being a shrink?
Andie: (trying to make a joke about it to hide her insecurities) I don�t think they let crazy people analyze other crazy people.
Dawson: (seriously) You�re not crazy Andie.
Andie: I know, but sometimes I�m not so sure of that.
Andie hands Dawson the sandwich, and sits at the counter with her sandwich.
Dawson: We all have those days, Andie. Days we want to scream, pull our hair out, break everything, lock ourselves up in our room and cry, or just run away. It doesn�t make you crazy, Andie. It makes you human. You don�t have to be perfect.
Andie: Now who sounds like the shrink?
Dawson: (laughing) I think I�ll stick to filmmaking.
The mood is more relaxed now.
Andie: When are you going to start filming your movie?
Dawson: Soon. The script is almost done, so all I�ll need is actors.
Andie: Are you going to hold auditions?
Dawson: I don�t know yet. I don�t have funding this time around, so I�m going to have to rely on free labor.
Andie: I could help if you want. I mean I did that play last year, and my organization skills are impeccable.
Dawson: Thanks. I just may take you up on that offer.
Andie smiles.
Andie: Plus it�ll be good to throw myself into a project.
The Pacey/Joey tension returns.
Andie: (noticing the mood change, stammers) Sorry, I didn�t mean to bring that up again.
Dawson: (sighs) It�s okay. I mean Pacey and Joey�s return isn�t going to go away just because we don�t talk about it directly. I wish it would, but it�s reality. They�re back, and things are never going to be the same again for anyone.
Int. Potter B&B (Day 1)
Bessie is folding towels in the laundry room when she hears the kitchen door slam shut. She tosses the towel she is folding down, and walks to the kitchen. She walks into the kitchen and freezes.
Bessie: Jo?
Joey: (smiles nervously) Hey Bessie.
Bessie: Oh my God, why didn�t you call, and say you were home all ready?
Bessie pulls Joey into a hug.
Joey: I just thought I�d surprise you.
Bessie: Well I�m surprised. I thought you were coming back tonight.
Bessie releases Joey and looks at her. She stares at her in concentration. Joey shifts uncomfortably under her gaze.
Joey: What?
Bessie: God, look at you all tanned, and skinny.
Joey: I�ve always been skinny Bessie.
Bessie: Well skinnier. Did Pacey feed you at all this summer?
Joey: (completely serious) Yeah, I mean a couple of times a week.
Bessie: Very funny.
Joey: (grinning) I�m fine Bessie, and yes we ate everyday. Pacey took good care of me.
Bessie: (with a knowing look) I bet he did.
Joey: (her eyes widen, and she shouts) Bessie.
Bessie: (innocently) What?
Joey: (changing the subject) So how were things here this summer?
Bessie: Busy, and don�t think just because I�m happy you�re home, and in one piece, that I�m not still mad about you leaving me to take care of this place all summer.
Joey: I�m sorry Bessie, really I am, and I�m going to make it up to you.
Bessie: You better believe you are, little sister. This place has been packed all summer, and with Bodie working here, and at the Leary�s, and Alexander to watch out for, I had more than I could handle.
Joey: Bessie I�m so sorry. It�s just you have to understand I had to go. I had to go with Pacey.
Bessie: So how was it being with Pacey all summer? I hope he�s not too scarred.
Joey: (laughing) It was fun, and exciting, and just amazing. And yes he�s fine.
Bessie: So where is he? I mean didn�t he want to say hi, or is he scared to face me after kidnapping my little sister for the summer.
Joey: (giving her a look) He went to see Doug.
Int. Doug�s Apartment (Day 1)
Pacey walks through the entrance to Doug�s apartment building. He stops outside the door. He stares at the door before taking a deep breath, and knocking. The door swings open, and the sounds of Bette Midler greats him along with a smiling Doug holding a paintbrush.
Doug: Well if it isn�t Captain Ahab, home from a summer at sea.
Pacey: (putting on a huge grin) Hey Dougie, I see you�re musical taste hasn�t changed since I left. Come out of the closet yet?
Doug: (his smile disappears) Very funny.
Pacey: I try.
Doug steps aside, and Pacey walks into the apartment.
Doug: I hope you�ve come back ready to work.
Pacey: I just got home. Give me a break.
Doug: Ahh little brother, there is no rest for the enslaved.
Pacey: You�re kidding right, Dougie?
Doug: I�m afraid not. You had the whole summer to frolic and play, and now you owe me.
Pacey: (sighs) What on earth was I thinking?
Doug: Well, I think I know what you were thinking with.
Pacey: Doug, don�t go there.
Doug: (handing him the paintbrush) I just hope it was worth it.
Pacey looks at the paintbrush, and grabs it.
Pacey: It was.
Doug: You can start in the bathroom.
Pacey walks away mumbling under his breath.
Doug: And Pacey...
Pacey turns around, and looks at Doug wondering what else he could possibly want.
Pacey: Yeah.
Doug: It�s good to have you home.
Pacey grins before turning away.
Int. Mc Phee�s Kitchen (Day 1)
Andie is cleaning up after her and Dawson�s lunch. Dawson has left. Jack walks into the kitchen.
Jack: Hey Andie.
He heads straight for the refrigerator, and starts digging around.
Andie: Hey.
Jack pulls out a plate of cold fried chicken, and slams the refrigerator door shut.
Jack: You�re awfully quiet. What gives?
Andie: What do you mean? You�ve been here for less than a minute.
Jack: And by that time you would have talked my ear off, so what gives?
Andie: (with a shake of her head) Nothing.
Jack sets the plate down on the counter, and faces Andie.
Jack: Come on I know you Andie. It has to do with Pacey and Joey doesn�t it?
Andie walks away from Jack, but then turns around.
Andie: They�re back. Dawson saw them today. (Andie throws her hands in the air) This shouldn�t bother me, and it doesn�t really. It�s just (Andie pauses) I know it�s going to hurt to see them together. In my head I�ve dealt with them being together, but I don�t know what I�m going to feel seeing them.
Jack: I guess you�ll just have to find out.
Andie: I�m scared, because every time I�m sure I�m over Pacey something happens, and I realize I�m not.
Jack: Andie, you need to let go of the past.
Andie: I know... (her voice trails off)
Jack: But...
Andie: I�m lonely Jack.
Jack pulls her into a hug.
Jack: I�m sorry Andie, but as long as you keep holding on to Pacey, you�re never going to move and not be lonely.
Andie: I know. I know.
Int. Potter B&B (Day 1)
Joey is helping Bessie fold sheets in laundry room.
Bessie: So when are you going to tell me the good stuff?
Joey: (looking up and raising her eyebrow) The good stuff?
Bessie: Yeah, what you and Pacey did all summer on his little boat.
Joey: Nothing. I mean we just had fun.
Bessie: (with a teasing smile) What kind of fun?
Joey: (shaking her head) Bessie, I�m not answering that.
Bessie: Come on, I spent all summer scrubbing toilets, washing dishes, and hanging out with a toddler. I need to hear some details.
Joey: There are no details. We had a great time.
Bessie: A great time?
Joey: Yes, a great time, and that�s all I�m saying.
Bessie: After ditching me all summer, you owe me more than that.
Joey: Bessie.
Bessie: Come on just a little something.
Joey sets down the sheet she is folding.
Joey: Well, we went this boardwalk in South Carolina.
Bessie: Sounds like fun.
Joey: It was.
Bessie: There�s more to this story I hope?
Joey: (smiling at the memory) Yeah well, we spent the day there and had the best time. We just acted like a couple of kids. We rode the rides, played the games, and ate like everything.
Bessie: And...
Joey: And what?
Joey picks up another sheet, and starts folding it.
Bessie: You don�t have that little smile on your face because you�re remembering riding the Ferris wheel.
Joey: Well there was this pier near by, and... (her voice trails off)
Bessie: Joey Potter, are you blushing?
Joey: (shouting) NO.
Bessie: Maybe I don�t want to know what happened under that pier.
Joey: It wasn�t like that, well maybe a little, and I�m going to shut up now.
Bessie walks closer to Joey.
Bessie: Jo, I know you don�t want to hear this, but please just tell me you were careful.
Joey: Bessie.
Bessie: Sex is a big deal, and has far too many consequences, and I just don�t want to see you throw your life away, so please just tell me you protected yourself.
Joey: Bessie, we didn�t have sex.
Bessie: (shocked) What?
Joey: We didn�t have sex.
Bessie: You were all alone, on a small boat, with your boyfriend whom you love, and you didn�t sleep together.
Joey: Nope.
Bessie: Pacey�s not gay is he?
Joey: God Bessie no.
Bessie: Is everything okay?
Joey: What do you mean?
Bessie: Just you seem so in love, and when you love someone sex is a natural thing.
Joey: Bessie, everything�s fine, we just didn�t sleep together, okay?
Bessie: Did you want to?
Joey: Bessie.
Bessie: Well did you?
Joey: (whispering) Yes.
Bessie: Then why didn�t you?
Joey: Aren�t you supposed to be discouraging me from having sex?
Bessie: (resting her hand lightly on Joey�s arm) Joey, you have grown up faster than you should have, and you have more responsibility than you should at your age, and sometimes it�s easy to forget you�re only seventeen, but you are only seventeen Jo. Do I think you should have sex with Pacey? No, but you�re almost eighteen years old, and I have to trust you to make the right decision. And if you do decide to have sex, I�m going to support you and make damn sure you don�t end up with a baby.
Joey: Bessie I don�t know what to say. I thought you�d be mad.
Bessie steps away form Joey and picks up a sheet and starts folding it.
Bessie: Yeah well, don�t think I�m going to let you and Pacey do as you please. He�s to be out of this house at midnight. There will be no overnight visits.
Joey: Really Bessie is that necessary. I mean we could do a lot before midnight.
Bessie: (giving her a warning look) Watch it, or he�s not going to be allowed in this house at all.
Joey: (smiling) Thanks Bessie.
Bessie: (sighs) To be young and in love again.
Joey: It�s not as easy as it looks. We still have to face Dawson. Did you see him this summer at all?
Bessie: A few times.
Joey: How is he?
Bessie: I really don�t know.
Int. Leary�s Fresh Fish (Day 1)
Gale is sitting at a table in the back going over some paper work. The restaurant is basically empty in the post lunch/pre dinner hour. As she works Dawson walks over.
Gale: (without looking up) You�re late.
Dawson: Sorry, I got sidetracked.
Hearing the sadness in his voice Gale looks up.
Gale: What is it honey?
Dawson: Nothing. I dropped off the new plates in the kitchen already.
Dawson starts to walk away but Gale calls him back.
Gale: Dawson.
Dawson: (turning around) Yeah.
Gale: Did you see Pacey and Joey?
Dawson: (with a sigh) Yeah.
Gale: Sit down, and we can talk about it.
Dawson: I�d rather not.
Gale: Honey you need to talk about it.
Dawson: No offense mom, but I�d rather not talk about it with you. I already talked to Andie, so you can stop giving me the worried mother look. I�m fine. Well not fine, but I�m dealing with it.
Gale: Okay, but if you ever need to talk your father, or I.
Dawson: (cutting her off) I know. Is it all right if I head out?
Gale: Sure honey.
Dawson: Thanks.
Dawson leaves, and Gale stares after him still worried.
Int. Doug�s Apartment (Day 1)
Pacey is kneeling on the bathroom floor painting the baseboard. Doug walks up and stands in the doorway. He doesn�t say anything as Pacey continues to paint.
Pacey: You�re enjoying this aren�t you?
Doug: My goal in life is not to torment you.
Pacey: Could have fooled me.
Doug: So Pacey, are you going to tell me about your summer, or what?
Pacey looks up at Doug.
Pacey: You want to hear about my summer?
Doug: I asked didn�t I?
Pacey turns back to his painting.
Pacey: It was great. The best time of my life.
Doug: What did you do on that boat for three months alone with Joey?
Pacey: Don�t go there Doug.
Doug: Pacey, you�re seventeen. You sailed away all summer with your girlfriend, where am I supposed to go?
Pacey: Not there.
Doug: So you didn�t sleep with her.
Pacey: I�m not answering that.
Doug: So you did.
Pacey: I didn�t say that either.
Doug: Pacey.
Pacey: Dougie.
Doug: Just be careful little brother.
Pacey: I will.
Doug: And just for the record there will be no late night groping sessions.
Pacey: Doug.
Doug: I�m serious. You may have been free to do as you would all summer, but living here you will follow my rules, and the first one is no getting friendly with your girlfriend here.
Pacey: We didn�t have sex.
Doug: You didn�t?
Pacey: Nope.
Doug: You�re serious.
Pacey: As a heart attack.
Doug: All alone for three months with the girl you love, and you didn�t.
Pacey: No Dougie, we didn�t.
Doug: Why?
Pacey stops painting and looks up at Doug.
Pacey: What do you mean why?
Doug: I mean why not? You love her. She loves you.
Pacey: It just wasn�t the right time.
Doug: Well Pacey maybe you have grown into a man.
Pacey: At least one of us has.
Pacey laughs at his own joke, and Doug slaps him lightly on the back of his head. Pacey sets down his paintbrush, and stands up. He walks out of the bathroom.
Doug: Where are you going?
Pacey: To see Joey if that�s all right with you oh master.
Doug: (sighs) Pacey (he stops not able to get the words out.) Go. Tell her I said hi.
Pacey looks at Doug strangely questioning what he was going to say.
Pacey: I will.
Fade out...
ACT 2
Ext. Potter B&B Porch (Late Afternoon of Day 1)
Pacey and Joey are sitting on the porch. Pacey is sitting on the top step, while Joey is sitting on a lower step, and leaning back against his chest.
Joey: I can�t believe school starts tomorrow.
Pacey: Yeah we did cut it pretty close getting back on time.
Joey: I miss being on the boat already.
Pacey: Well, we could always sneak over there, and spend the night.
Joey: I�m sure Bessie would love that. She already initiated the Pacey rules.
Pacey: Really? And what rules are those.
Joey turns slightly to face him.
Joey: Basically no overnight rendezvous.
Pacey: But we can rendezvous during the day.
Joey: Yes we can.
They share a kiss.
Pacey: I don�t know if I�m going to be able to stand not being with you all the time.
Joey: I know what you mean. Things are going to be different now. Real life starts tomorrow.
Pacey: But we still have tonight.
Joey: (she gets a far off look in her eyes) Tonight.
Pacey: (noticing the look) What?
Joey: I�m going to go to Dawson�s later.
Pacey: What?
Joey: Pacey I have to talk to him.
Pacey: I know, but why now?
Joey: What message does it send if I don�t go to see him as soon as I got back?
Pacey: That he�s not the center of the universe.
Joey: Pacey, don�t do this. He�s my best friend. I have to try to repair the damage I�ve caused. You have to understand that.
Pacey: I understand.
Joey: Are you just saying that?
Pacey: No I understand. Really I do.
Joey gives him a quick kiss.
Joey: Thank you.
Pacey: Jo?
Joey: Yeah.
Pacey: Things between us they�re not going to change right?
Joey places her hands on the sides of Pacey�s face.
Joey: Nothing is going to change that I love you.
Pacey: I�m just scared. I can�t lose you Jo.
Joey: You�re not going to lose me. I promise.
Joey kisses him slowly. As she pulls away Pacey keeps his eyes closed.
Pacey: Call me when you get back?
Joey: I will.
Pacey opens his eyes and stares at Joey.
Joey: What?
Pacey shakes his head. He wraps his hand behind her neck and pulls her into another kiss.
Int. Dawson�s House (Night of Day 1)
Mitch is sitting at the kitchen table reading over some papers. He makes a few notes. Gale walks in, and Mitch looks up.
Mitch: Hey there, you look tired.
Gale: I am tired.
Gale gives Mitch a kiss, and sits next to him.
Gale: Schoolwork?
Mitch: Yeah, I�m just going over my lessons plans.
Gale: It�s the first day of school, how much of a lesson are you going to have?
Mitch: Well I�m planning a pop quiz, and tons of homework.
Gale smiles at his joke.
Mitch: I just want to make sure everything goes well. I mean this is a big opportunity. I want to make sure I show them that they didn�t make a mistake hiring me on as a full time teacher.
Gale: And football coach.
Mitch: And football coach.
Gale: You�re not going to have much time for the restaurant.
Mitch: Gale we�ve talked about this. I will have time for the restaurant, but you�re doing a splendid job on your own.
Mitch kisses the top of her head, and puts his arm around her.
Gale: Thank you. I�m just so worn out lately.
Mitch: Maybe you should take a day off.
Gale: And who�s going to run the restaurant?
Mitch: Gale, do you want me to give up this teaching job?
Gale: (sighing) No of course not honey. I�m just tired, and a bit cranky. I just need to rest.
Mitch: Go on up to bed. I�ll join you later.
Gale stands up.
Gale: Have you talked to Dawson today?
Mitch: No why?
Gale: He saw Pacey and Joey.
Mitch: How is he?
Gale: How do you think?
Mitch: I guess I should go talk to him.
Gale: (shaking her head no) He doesn�t want to talk, but I told him we�d be here if he decides he needs to.
Mitch: Okay. Goodnight.
Gale leans over and kisses Mitch, and walks away.
Int. Andie�s Room (Night of Day 1)
Andie is lying on her bed reading The Great Gatsby. There�s a knock on her door.
Andie: Come in.
Jack walks into the room.
Jack: Hey Andie.
Andie: Jack, what�s up?
Andie sets her book down, and sits up. Jack sits next to her.
Jack: Whatcha reading?
Andie: The Great Gatsby.
Jack: (shaking his head) Did you just get the sudden urge to read some Fitzgerald?
Andie: Well, it�s the first book on this year�s required reading list. I wanted to get a head start.
Jack: Andie.
Andie: Jack, I don�t want to hear it. I know you�re going to say I�m throwing myself into school to forget about Pacey, but I�m not. If I want to get into Harvard I have to work harder than everyone else.
Jack: You�ll get into Harvard Andie.
Andie: I�m not so sure right now, which is why I�m going to work especially hard this semester.
Jack: I can�t believe school starts tomorrow.
Andie: I�m actually glad the summer�s over. School just seems so normal after this summer.
Jack: Yeah, this summer has been rather odd.
Andie: Jack I�m going to be okay. You don�t have to worry about me.
Jack puts his arm around Andie.
Jack: I know, but I�m your big brother. I can�t help but worry.
Andie: Thank you.
Andie rests her head on Jack�s shoulder.
Ext. Jen�s Porch (Night of Day 1)
Jen and Henry are sitting on the porch talking.
Henry: I wish we could have some classes together.
Jen: Not going to happen Parker. That�s the consequences of dating an old woman.
Henry: Maybe, but I like the benefits.
Jen: Such as?
Henry: Being with you.
Jen smiles as Henry kisses her.
Jen: Well I like the benefits of dating a younger man.
Henry: Like what?
Jen: Bossing you around.
Henry: Funny.
Jen: I�m kidding Henry. I just love being with you.
Henry leans in to kiss her, but Jen puts up her hands up to stop him.
Jen: Hold on.
Henry looks at Jen concerned. He follows her gaze towards Dawson�s house.
Ext. Dawson�s House (Night of Day 1)
Joey is standing in front of Dawson�s house looking up towards his window. Her eyes drift to the ladder, and then to the front door, and back to the ladder. She takes a deep breath, and walks to the ladder. She slowly climbs onto the ladder, and hesitates at each rung. She stops when she reaches the top, and peers into Dawson�s room.
Int. Dawson�s Room (Night of Day 1)
Dawson is typing on his computer. One of Joey�s legs swings into the room. Dawson doesn�t seem to notice. Joey sits on the ledge, and swings her other leg over. Dawson is still oblivious. Joey sets her feet on the ground, and Dawson finally realizes someone�s in his room.
Dawson: Andie I�m glad you�re here.
Dawson turns around, and a rush of emotions register on his face. Shock, pain, and happiness are the prominent ones.
Dawson: (shocked whisper) Joey?
Joey: (nervously chewing her lip, and fidgeting) Hey Dawson.
Dawson: (more normal) Joey.
Joey: (walks further into the room) You said that already (little smile) Were you expecting Andie, cuz I can leave?
Dawson: No, I just didn�t expect you.
An awkward silence falls on them.
Joey: What are you working on?
Dawson: (looking at the computer screen) Umm my new film.
Joey: (smiling) You�re doing another film.
Dawson: Yeah, the scripts almost done.
Joey: I�m happy for you.
Dawson: Thanks.
Joey: So what�s it about?
Dawson: Umm, it�s about...(he is fumbling for words) see it takes place... (stopping again)
Joey: It�s okay you don�t have to tell me.
Dawson: No. I guess it�s just hard explain.
Joey: Well I�m sure it�ll be great.
Silence falls over them again. It�s getting more awkward as they don�t want to say what they are thinking.
Joey: Dawson...
Dawson cuts her off, and stands up.
Dawson: Joey don�t. Just don�t.
Joey: I wasn�t going to...(she stops) Is it supposed to be this hard? I mean we�ve spent a lifetime talking, and now we don�t even know what to say.
Dawson: Things are different now. It�s not Dawson and Joey anymore. It�s Dawson, and over there it�s Joey. Two separate people living separate lives.
Joey walks closer to Dawson.
Joey: It doesn�t have to be that way.
Dawson: I think it does. Things aren�t how they used to be, and we can�t pretend they are. (Dawson starts to get choked up) You can�t just crawl through my window and expect that.
The words hit Joey hard, and she struggles to fight her tears.
Joey: I didn�t expect that Dawson.
Dawson: (angrily) What did you expect?
Joey: I don�t know.
Dawson: (raising his voice) Why�d you come here Joey?
Joey: How can you ask that?
Dawson: It�s a logical question. You said you don�t know what to say, so why did you come?
Joey: To talk to you.
Dawson: About what?
Joey: Dawson...
Dawson: Joey, what could you possibly think you could say to me right now?
Joey: (softly) I�m sorry.
Dawson: You�re sorry? For what?
Joey doesn�t answer him.
Dawson: (shouting angrily) For what? Going with Pacey? Loving Pacey? Ripping my heart out? Destroying my life? What are you sorry for Joey?
Joey is frozen as Dawson�s hateful words come spilling out. Tears start to stream down her face.
Joey: (whispering) Dawson...
Dawson turns away from her unable to see her cry.
Dawson: Just leave Joey.
Joey: Dawson...
Dawson: (turning around with tears in his own eyes) Just leave Joey...please.
Joey holds his gaze for a moment before turning and running out of the window.
Ext. Dawson�s House (Night of Day 1)
Joey climbs down the ladder in a hurry. She�s crying and almost slips in her haste. When she reaches the bottom she runs to the dock, and gets in her boat. She starts rowing as fast as she can away from Dawson�s house.
Ext. Jen�s Porch (Night of Day 1)
Jen is standing on the porch obviously watching Joey leave Dawson�s house. She looks towards Henry.
Henry: (slightly annoyed) Let me guess you have to go talk to him?
Jen: Henry, he might need a friend right now.
Henry: It�s always something with your friends isn�t it?
Jen: Henry, we talked about this. You�re not in competition with my friends.
Henry: I know, but they�re always stealing you from me.
Jen: They need me. Dawson needs me right me.
Henry: I need you too.
Jen: (in a warning tone) Henry.
Henry: (reluctantly) Go.
Jen look at Henry, and he nods his head. She gives him a quick kiss.
Jen: Thank you.
Jen walks off the porch towards Dawson�s house.
Ext. The Creek (Night of Day 1)
Joey is rowing her boat as tears run down her face. She stops rowing, and starts sobbing.
Int. Dawson�s Room (Night of Day 1)
Dawson is sitting at his window looking out at the creek. There�s a knock on his door, and Jen walks in before he can answer.
Jen: Hey Dawson.
Dawson: (still staring out at the creek) I�m going to start thinking you�re a peeping tom.
Jen: (laughs lightly) I just happened to be on my porch.
Dawson: And saw everything?
Jen: I just saw Joey leave.
Dawson: And you�re here to give me words of wisdom. Let me guess. I have to let her go.
Jen: Yes you do, but I didn�t come over to say that. I came over in case you needed a friend.
Dawson: (finally looking at Jen) I don�t really want to talk about it.
Jen: We don�t have to talk.
Jen sits next to Dawson. There is a long silence.
Int. Doug�s Apartment (Night Day 1)
Pacey is lying on the couch with the phone on his chest. He glances over at the clock. It reads 11:38. He picks up the phone and dials a few numbers before slamming the phone back down.
Ext. Creek (Night of Day 1)
Joey is sitting in her boat her knees drawn to her chest. She isn�t crying anymore but her face is still streaked with tears. She is staring off into the distance. Following her sight line we see Dawson�s House.
Fade out...
ACT 3
Int. Potter B&B (Morning of Day 2)
Joey is asleep in bed. Her alarm goes off, and she slowly opens her eyes. She leans over and switches the alarm off. She glances at the clock, and sighs. She sits up before standing up and pulling on her robe. She walks out of her room and down the hall to the kitchen. Bessie, and Bodie are in the kitchen cooking breakfast. Bodie looks up from the stove as she comes in.
Bodie: Morning sleepyhead.
Bessie: And where were you last night till all hours of the morning?
Joey: I wasn�t with Pacey if that�s what you�re implying. I went to see Dawson.
Bessie: Oh Jo, what happened?
Joey: I don�t want to talk about it.
Joey grabs a croissant and takes a bite.
Joey: Did Pacey call?
Bessie looks at her sympathetically, and shakes her head no.
Joey: Oh (pause) I have to go get ready for school.
Joey walks at the room and Bodie and Bessie watch her leave.
Bessie: I don�t think she realized the consequences she�d have to face.
Int. Doug�s Apartment (Morning of Day 2)
Pacey is asleep on the couch. The phone is resting on his chest. Doug walks over to him, and shakes him by the shoulder. Pacey stirs slightly in his sleep. Doug shakes him harder.
Doug: Pacey.
Pacey jerks awake and looks at Doug.
Doug: (sympathetically since he knows Pacey spent the night waiting for Joey to call) You�re going to be late.
Pacey groans. Doug picks up the phone off his chest, and holds it out to him.
Doug: Call her, and then get to school.
Pacey takes the phone from him, and sits up.
Pacey: Thanks.
Doug walks out of the room, and Pacey dials Joey�s number.
Pacey: Hey Bessie, can I talk to Joey. (pause while Bessie answers) Okay, I guess I�ll see her at school. Thanks.
Pacey clicks the phone off, and sighs. He rests his head in his hands.
Ext. The McPhee�s House (Morning of Day 2)
Jack is sitting at the table with Mr. McPhee over breakfast. Mr. McPhee is reading the paper, while Jack eats a bowl of cereal.
Mr. McPhee: So Jack are you excited about the first day of school?
Jack snorts.
Jack: Excited isn�t exactly the right word.
McPhee: It�s your senior year. You have a lot to look forward to.
Andie walks outside to join them. She�s smiling, and carrying her back pack.
Jack: Now I know where Andie gets it from.
Andie: Gets what from?
She sets her bag down and sits next to Jack. She grabs the box of cereal and begins pouring it into her bowl.
Jack: Your positive outlook on life.
Andie: There�s nothing wrong with being positive. You should try it Jack. You are way too jaded.
Jack: I like being jaded.
Mr. McPhee gives him a look before standing up.
Mr. McPhee: I have to get to the office. Have a good day at school.
Andie: Bye Dad.
Jack: (with a mouthful of cereal) Bye.
Mr. McPhee walks off, and Jack turns to Andie before he can say anything Andie blurts out.
Andie: Don�t say it. I�m fine.
Jack: I wasn�t going to say anything, but if I was I�d say that I think you�re overcompensating in trying to make everyone else think you�re fine.
Andie: No one would believe me if I didn�t.
Jack: I believe you.
Jack reaches across the table and rests his hand over Andie�s.
Ext. Capeside High (Morning of Day 2)
Students are walking around, and talking in front of the school. Pacey walks up the steps and into the high school.
Int. Capeside High (Morning of Day 2)
Following Pacey inside the high school, he walks down the hall obviously looking for Joey. He sees Jen at her locker talking to Henry. Henry is leaning against the lockers whispering in her ear. Pacey walks towards them. Jen laughs at what Henry is saying as Pacey approaches them.
Pacey: Hey Jen.
Jen turns around surprised.
Jen: Pacey (she pulls him into a hug) It�s so great to see you.
Pacey: It�s nice to know someone is happy about my return.
Pacey steps away from Jen, and nods towards Henry.
Pacey: Hey Henry.
Henry: Hey, how was your trip?
Pacey: Great. (To Jen) Have you seen Joey?
Pacey looks around again with nervous anticipation.
Jen: Geez Pace you spent the whole summer with her.
Pacey: (clearly distracted) I just have to talk to her.
Jen: You haven�t talked to her since she went to see Dawson?
Pacey: (his head snapping to look at her) How�d you know?
Jen: Have you forgotten I live right next door?
Pacey: What happened?
Jen: You should talk to her.
Pacey: (looking around) Have you seen her?
Jen: (shaking her head no) Sorry.
Pacey: (still looking around) I�ll talk to you later, Lindley.
Pacey takes off, and Jen stares after him.
Jen: It�s starting all over again.
Henry: Just promise me our relationship will never get that dramatic.
Jen: I don�t think you have anything to worry about. I mean they write television shows about that kind of drama. Our relationship would put the viewers to sleep.
Henry: (defensive) Is that how you really feel? That we�re boring.
Jen: No of course not. We�re happy, sickeningly happy, and that eliminates any tension filled drama of the Pacey/Joey/Dawson triangle sort.
Henry: We could be dramatic.
Jen: Henry, I don�t want that kind of drama.
Henry: You want to be boring?
Jen: No I want to be happy, which I am.
Henry smiles, and Jen kisses him.
Int. Capeside High (Morning of Day 2)
Andie walks by Henry and Jen kissing, and gets a far away look on her face. As she rounds the corner she almost runs into Dawson.
Andie: (surprised) Dawson.
Dawson: Hey Andie.
Andie: How are you doing?
Dawson: Considering I saw Joey last night, (pausing) Well I�m not doing great.
They start walking down the hall.
Andie: Did you talk to her?
Dawson: Yelled at her, and lied to her maybe.
Andie: Dawson...
Dawson: The things I said to her. I was just so angry. I thought if she just crawled through my window again everything would be okay, but she was standing there and all I could see was her kissing Pacey. When I told her to go to Pacey, I honestly thought she�d realize what a mistake he was and come back to me.
Andie: I�m sorry Dawson.
Dawson: I just don�t know if I can get used to her being with him. I look at her and all I can see is her with Pacey.
Andie: It�ll get easier.
Dawson: You keep saying that, but right now that brings me no comfort.
Andie: I know.
Dawson: Have you seen...
Dawson�s voice trails off as his eyes lock with Pacey�s. Pacey is walking down the hall but freezes as soon as Dawson sees him.
Dawson: (in a whisper) them.
Dawson and Pacey stare at each other. Dawson lets out a little laugh, and Pacey slowly starts towards them.
Dawson: See you later Andie.
Dawson takes off in the opposite direction. Pain flashes across Pacey�s face as he watches Dawson hurry away. Andie watches Dawson leave, and turns back around to see Pacey standing right next to her.
Pacey: It couldn�t have been something I said.
Pacey laughs but it is strained. Andie gives him a smile that is just as strained.
Pacey: Hey McPhee.
Andie: Hey Pacey.
Pacey: I guess he doesn�t want to talk to me.
Andie: He just needs time.
Pacey: I thought a whole summer was enough time.
Andie: Pacey, you�re not being fair. He needs time to adjust to you being with Joey right in front of him.
Pacey is silent.
Pacey: So how was your summer, Andie?
Andie: Great. Yours?
Pacey: Good.
Andie: You got a nice tan.
Pacey: Yeah well I was in the sun all day.
Andie: It must have been great.
Pacey: The best time of my life.
Andie flinches, and Pacey realizes what he just said.
Pacey: Andie...
Andie: (cutting him off) It�s okay. Pacey, I have to go. Talk to you later.
Before Pacey can say anything, Andie takes off.
Pacey: Now that was something I said.
Jack clamps his hand on Pacey�s back.
Jack: Resorting to talking to yourself Witter?
Pacey: (turning around) Hey Jackers.
Jack: (glaring at Pacey) Don�t call me that.
Pacey laughs.
Pacey: Have you seen Joey?
Pacey starts looking around again.
Jack: Not since you guys have been back. How was your trip?
Pacey: Amazing.
Jack: Good to know.
Pacey: Jack (pausing) How�s Andie taking it?
Jack: Okay actually.
Pacey: Really?
Jack: Yeah Pacey, really.
Pacey: (with a small smile) That�s great.
Pacey spots Joey down the hall. He rests his hand quickly on Jack�s shoulder.
Pacey: Talk to you later man.
Pacey heads down the hall towards Joey. As he gets closer, she looks up, and gives him a relieved smile. She reaches her arms out to hug him as he approaches her, but Pacey grabs her hand, and pulls her down the hall.
Joey: (confused) Pacey, where are we going?
Pacey: I have to talk to you.
Pacey opens the door to a janitor�s closet, and pulls Joey in.
Joey: (concerned) Pacey what�s wrong?
Pacey: You didn�t call me last night.
Joey: (sighing) Pacey, I�m sorry. I just... (her voice trails off)
Pacey: What happened at Dawson�s, Jo?
A single tear slides down Joey�s face, and Pacey wraps his arms around her.
Joey: He was so mean, and hateful, Pacey. I expected him to be mad, but not like this. Not like he couldn�t even stand to look at me. I don�t think he�s ever going to forgive us.
Pacey: I�m so sorry, Jo.
Pacey strokes her hair as he holds her.
Joey: I needed to be alone. I�m sorry I didn�t call.
Pacey: I was worried about you.
Joey steps away from him, and rests her hand on his face.
Joey: You don�t have to worry about that.
Pacey: Is it that obvious?
Joey nods. Pacey buries his head in her neck, and pulls her tightly against him. The bell rings.
Joey: We should get to class.
Pacey reluctantly lets her go. Joey waits a beat before pulling him into a kiss.
Int. Capeside High Classroom (Morning of Day 2)
Dawson is sitting in his English only half listening to his teacher Mrs. Becker. He�s staring out the window obviously thinking about Joey.
Mrs. Becker: So this year we will be reading many of the classics starting with Fitzgerald�s The Great Gatsby.
The door to the classroom opens, and Dawson looks up. Joey rushes in.
Mrs. Becker: You�re late.
Joey: Sorry.
Joey looks around the classroom and her eyes lock with Dawson�s.
Mrs. Becker: Your name?
Joey doesn�t answer as she holds her gaze with Dawson�s.
Mrs. Becker: (annoyed) Your name?
Joey: (looking at Mrs. Becker) Sorry, Joey Potter.
Mrs. Becker: Miss Potter please take the seat next to Mr. Leary, and don�t make this a habit. Tardiness to my class is not acceptable.
Joey makes her way to the only empty seat right next to Dawson.
Mrs. Becker: I expect everyone to be here on time, and prepared. It wastes my time, and yours when you are not.
Joey slides into the seat, and looks at Dawson. He smiles, and Joey smiles nervously back.
Fade out...
ACT 4
Int. Capeside High Classroom (Day 2)
Joey and Dawson are sitting in Mrs. Becker�s class.
Mrs. Becker: And that is why reading the classics is important.
The bell rings cutting her off.
Mrs. Becker: See you tomorrow.
Joey stands up, and Dawson does the same. The rest of the students file out, and Dawson and Joey stand there awkwardly.
Joey: Dawson...
Dawson (cutting her off) I have to get to my next class. See ya Joey.
Dawson takes off, and Joey stands there alone.
Joey: (mumbling) See ya, Dawson.
Int. Capeside High Classroom (Day 2)
Pacey is sitting at a desk by the window randomly doodling on his notebook. Andie walks into the class. She pauses when she sees Pacey, and then walks over to him.
Andie: Hey Pacey, is this seat taken.
Pacey looks up surprised, and Andie points to the seat next to him.
Pacey: (shaking his head) It�s all yours McPhee.
Andie sits down and glances over at Pacey�s notebook. The words Joey Potter stare back at her. She looks away. Pacey looks down and sighs. He flips his notebook over.
Pacey: Andie...
Andie: (cutting him off) So how is the first day back at school going for you?
Pacey leans back in his desk, and stares at Andie trying to read her.
Pacey: It�s school. I�d rather be anywhere else. How about you?
Andie: Good. I�m actually excited about this year. I mean it�s our last year.
Pacey: Yeah it is.
Andie: Then college here we come.
Pacey: (under his breath) Yeah.
Andie: So Mr. Leery is teaching this class. That�s going to be a bit strange.
Pacey: (leaning forward) Andie, you don�t have to do this.
Andie: Do what?
Pacey: Talk like we barely know each other.
Andie: I�m not Pacey. (pausing as her fake cheerfulness vanishes) I mean what do you want me to say?
Pacey: Nothing. Yeah it�ll be strange have Dawson�s dad as a teacher.
Andie: Every thing�s okay. I�m okay, Pacey.
Pacey: I know Andie.
Andie smiles weakly as Mitch walks into the classroom.
Mitch: Good morning class. I�m Mr. Leary your teacher for senior English this year. Let�s start by taking roll.
Andie sits up straight, and Pacey leans back in his desk again. Mitch walks to his desk, and opens his briefcase.
Int. Capeside High (Day 2)
Jen is at her locker throwing her books inside. Jack walks up.
Jack: Not having a good first day?
Jen slams her locker shut.
Jen: I hate school.
Jack: (laughing) I don�t think they make us go to school to have fun.
They start walking down the hall.
Jen: So how is your day going?
Jack: Actually, not as bad as I thought.
Jen: You mean a couple of our closest friends haven�t reenacted an episode of the Jerry Springer show yet?
Jack: (laughing) Not yet, but then again I don�t think they�ve seen each other.
Jen: Speak of the devil.
Jack follows Jen�s stare to see Joey walking towards them.
Jack: I wouldn�t call Joey the devil.
Jen: Figure of speech.
Joey approaches them.
Joey: (nervously) Hey guys.
Jack: Hey Joey.
Jack pulls her into a quick hug.
Jen: Hey Joey. You look great. A summer at sea agreed with you.
Joey: (smiling shyly) Thanks.
Jen: So we were just heading to lunch, right Jack?
Joey shifts uncomfortably.
Jack: That�s right, why don�t you come with us?
Joey: I don�t know.
Jen: Come on Joey.
Jack puts his arm around her shoulder and leads her down the hall towards the cafeteria.
Jack: You can tell us all about your sailing adventure.
Int. Cafeteria (Day 2)
Pacey is sitting alone at a table. His lunch tray is in front of him, but he�s not eating. Dawson walks into the cafeteria and looks around. He sees Pacey and walks to a table as far away from him as he can get. He sits down, and pulls out his lunch. Jack, Joey and Jen walk into the cafeteria. They stop and look around. They all notice at the same time that Dawson, and Pacey are at separate tables. Joey looks from Pacey, who has his head down, to Dawson. Her eyes lock with Dawson�s and her face falls.
Jack: Joey, are you okay?
Joey looks over to Pacey and their eyes lock. Pacey breaks their gaze to look over at Dawson who is staring at him. Joey sighs.
Joey: I�ll talk to you guys later.
Joey walks to Pacey�s table.
Joey: Hey.
She sits down next to him, and Pacey leans over to kiss her, but Joey turns her head. Her gaze drifts over to Dawson, who is watching them.
Pacey: Jo??
Pacey puts his arm across her shoulders. Dawson stands up, and walks out of the cafeteria. Joey instinctively stands up to go after him. Pacey grabs her arm keeping her there. Joey turns her head to look at Pacey.
Pacey: Let him go.
Joey: Pacey.
Pacey: Jo, this isn�t going to start again. I�m not going to stand by this time and watch you constantly run after him. You�re with me. You said that�s where you want to be, so he�s just going to have to accept it.
Joey: You�re not being fair.
Pacey: (raising his voice) Fair?? I�m not being fair.
People are starting to look at them.
Joey: Pacey let�s not have this discussion now.
Pacey: (lowering his voice) Jo, don�t do this to me.
Joey sits back down.
Joey: Pacey, I�m trying. I�m trying to fix things between us all.
Pacey: Dawson obviously doesn�t want things fixed.
Joey: He�s hurting Pacey.
Pacey: And you chasing after him is going to make him feel better? It�s just going to give him false hope.
Joey: False hope?
Pacey: That he�s still the most important person in your life.
Joey: Pacey he is important.
Pacey: (his voice raising again) More important than me?
Joey: How can you ask that?
Pacey: It�s a simple question Jo.
Just about everyone in the cafeteria is staring at them. Joey looks around and notices everyone watching, and listening to their argument.
Joey: (whispering harshly) Please Pacey can we not do this now.
Pacey looks around and sees that they are the center of attention.
Pacey: Fine Jo.
Pacey stands up abruptly. He starts walking out of the cafeteria.
Joey: (shouting after him) Pacey.
Pacey keeps walking till he leaves the cafeteria. Joey falls back into her chair. She quickly glances around at everyone watching her before shoving her chair back, and leaving the cafeteria. Jen and Jack watch her leave.
Jack: Well I think that was very Springeresque.
Jen gives Jack a look.
Ext. Capeside High (Day 2)
School is over, and Pacey is standing outside of the school. A few students are still milling around. The front door opens and Dawson walks outside. Pacey takes a few steps towards him, and Dawson stops.
Pacey: Dawson.
Dawson: I have nothing to say to you.
Pacey: Is it always going to be like this?
Dawson: What did you expect? You ran off with Joey.
Pacey: She�s not yours man.
Dawson: She�s not yours either.
Pacey: No she�s not, but she chose to be with me.
Dawson starts to walk away but Pacey grabs his arm. Dawson yanks his arm away.
Pacey: Dawson if you want to hate me fine. Go right ahead, but it�s killing her. I know you love her, and I�m sorry that we hurt you, but you�re her best friend man.
Dawson: She may buy this selfless Pacey, but I don�t. The only reason you care if we�re friends is because it�ll make your relationship easier. You�re scared that in the end she will chose me.
Pacey steps closer to Dawson his anger building.
Pacey: I�m not scared of you Dawson.
Dawson moves closer to Pacey. The tension between them is rapidly increasing.
Dawson: You will always be in my shadow.
Pacey lets out a little laugh.
Pacey: She�s with me just deal with it, and if you ever make her cry again...
Dawson: You�ll what? Hit me? Beat me up? She�ll really love you after that.
Pacey closes his eyes, and steps away from Dawson.
Pacey: We were best friends Dawson. It shouldn�t be this way.
Dawson: You made your own bed Pace, and now you have to sleep in it.
Pacey nods his head, and backs away. He almost says something, but just shakes his head and walks away. When he disappears, Dawson leans back against the wall, and sighs.
Andie: Dawson, are you okay?
Dawson looks up to see Andie standing in front of him.
Dawson: How much did you hear?
Andie: Not much.
Dawson: Just say it Andie. I know you want to.
Andie: I don�t want to say it Dawson, but...
Dawson: (cutting her off) I have to get over it.
Andie: Yeah you do, and he�s right you know.
Dawson: About what?
Andie: It�s going to hurt Joey more than either of you to be torn between the two men she loves the most.
Dawson: I don�t want to hurt her. I just... (his voice trails off) Sometimes I think if I just hit him once, I�d feel better.
Andie: You might.
Dawson: But then I�d also feel guilty. I just wish my heart would catch up to my head. Right now I�m not angry, but when I see them I lose all control. All my rational thought leaves and I�m left with this bitterness, and fury, and I just lash out, but it�s just making me feel worse.
Andie: It�s understandable Dawson.
Dawson: How are you dealing with it?
Andie: Good actually. I guess I was panicking for nothing.
Dawson: Really?
Andie: Yeah I mean I saw Pacey. It was awkward, and it upset me, but no more than usual.
Dawson: That�s great Andie. I�m glad you�re not suffering like me.
Andie: I wish I knew what to say, or do to make you feel better.
Dawson: There�s nothing.
Int. Screenplay Video (Night of Day 2)
Pacey is sitting behind the counter with his feet propped up watching a movie. The door chime goes off as the door opens. Pacey looks up, and sees Joey walking towards him. He flips off the TV, and sits up straight as she walks to the counter.
Joey: Hey.
Pacey: Hey.
Joey: It�s been quite a day huh?
Pacey: That�s one way of putting it.
Joey: Yeah.
Silence falls over them.
Joey: Pacey...
Pacey: (cutting her off) I know Jo.
Joey gives him one of her half smiles.
Joey: Thanks.
Pacey: It�s not always going to be like this is it?
Joey: No. Pacey you just have to trust me when I say I love you.
Pacey: I do.
Joey hops up onto the counter, and swings her legs over to the other side. She slides off the counter and onto Pacey�s lap straddling his waist.
Joey: I love you Pacey.
Pacey: God, I love you so much Potter. You�re going to be the death of me.
Joey smiles and lowers her mouth to Pacey�s. They share a long kiss. The door chime goes off again. Neither one notices as they continue to kiss. They jump apart when they hear someone clear their throat loudly. They both turn their heads slowly to see Dawson standing at the counter.
Joey: (whispering) Dawson.
Joey and Pacey are frozen as they stare at Dawson.
Dawson: I came to get a copy of American Beauty.
Finally Pacey is able to move, and he lightly pushes Joey off his lap, and stands up.
Pacey: I�ll go get it for you.
Pacey disappears into the back.
Joey: Dawson... (Joey begins)
Dawson: Joey, I�m not going to make a scene.
Joey: Thank you.
Dawson: Joey you can�t just expect me to be able to deal with this.
Joey: I didn�t expect...
Dawson: (cutting her off) It�s hard for me Jo to see you with him.
Joey: I know.
Dawson: I just need time, and for you to understand.
Joey: Okay.
Dawson: And to forgive me.
Joey: (shocked) For what?
Dawson: All the hurtful things I�ve said, and may say in the future.
Joey: I can always forgive you Dawson, but can you forgive me?
Dawson: Always.
Joey: And Pacey?
Dawson: Don�t push it Jo.
Joey: Dawson, I want us to be friends, and it�s important to me, but Dawson you have to accept Pacey being my boyfriend, because he�s a part of my life. He�s a very big part of my life, and if you can�t accept that than we�ll never be friends again.
Dawson stares at her in shock, as does Pacey from the backroom�s doorway.
Joey: I made my choice. That�s what you wanted me to do. Can you live with that?
Dawson: Jo... (stops) I... (stops) Now you�re giving the ultimatums.
Joey: It�s not an ultimatum Dawson. I made a choice, and I�m sticking by it. I want to be with Pacey. I love him.
Pain flashes across Dawson�s face at her words.
Joey: I�m sorry Dawson. I don�t want to hurt you, but I�m not going to hurt him either.
Pacey walks from the doorway, and standing behind Joey he places his hand on her shoulder.
Pacey: Jo, I think you made your point.
Pacey looks at Dawson with concern. He holds out the movie.
Pacey: Here�s your movie Dawson.
Dawson takes the movie silently.
Joey: Dawson?
Dawson: (snapping out of his trance) I just need time Jo.
Joey: I understand and I�ll always be here for you.
Dawson nods his head. He looks at them again. Pacey has his hands on Joey�s waist, and her hands cover his as she gently caresses the back of his hands with her thumbs. Dawson looks away, and walks out of the video store. The chime goes off as he leaves. As soon as Dawson is gone, Pacey turns Joey around, and stares down at her.
Pacey: Did you really mean that Jo?
Joey: Every word. I made my choice Pacey, and I don�t regret it at all. I�m with who I want to be with.
Pacey smiles.
Pacey: You were a little hard on him.
Joey: I didn�t want to be, but I had to make sure he understood, and that you understood.
Pacey: I know Jo.
Joey: But this afternoon?
Pacey: I was scared, but in my heart I know that you love me.
Joey rests her head on his chest.
Joey: This has been one emotionally exhausting day.
Pacey: But we survived our first real day home.
Joey looks up at him.
Joey: We did, didn�t we?
Pacey: Yes we did, and we�ll survive all the days after it too.
Joey: Together.
Pacey: (caressing the side of her face) You better believe together.
Pacey angles her head up towards him, and kisses her.
Fade out...