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Author: Cariann |
Int. Doug�s Apartment (Day 1)
Books are spread out on the table for studying, but Pacey and Joey are on the couch making out. Joey is leaning back against the arm of the couch her hands entwined in Pacey�s hair as they kiss. Pacey runs his hand up under her shirt, and rests it on her stomach. He kisses down her neck, and Joey tilts her head back.
Joey: Hey Pace.
Pacey doesn�t answer as he continues to kiss her neck up to her ear.
Joey: What do you want for your birthday?
Pacey stops, and thinks for a moment.
Pacey: (whispering in her ear) You.
Joey: (giggling she pushes him away) I�m being serious.
Pacey: So am I, but seeing as I already have you there is nothing else I want.
Joey smiles. She wraps her hand around his neck, and pulls him into another kiss. They pull apart, and Joey rests her forehead against his.
Joey: How about a party?
Pacey: (leaning back against the couch) You mean you aren�t already throwing me a surprise party?
Joey: I think I�ve thrown all the surprise parties I�m going to in my life considering how the last one turned out.
Pacey: Point taken.
Joey moves to sit in Pacey�s lap. Pacey wraps his arms around her.
Joey: Surprise parties aside, do you want a party? I mean you don�t turn 18 every day.
Pacey: I don�t know. It�s not like anyone would come anyways.
Joey: Pacey that�s not true.
Pacey: Well then let�s just say not very many people would come who actually care about me.
Joey: I care about you (Joey kisses him) and I want to throw you a party.
Pacey: If it�ll make you happy then throw away.
Joey: (skeptical) Are you sure?
Pacey: (smiling) Positive.
Pacey pulls Joey into a kiss. They pull apart.
Joey: You do have friends Pace. Jack, Jen, Andie, they�ll all come because they care about you.
Pacey: I see you left one name off that list.
Joey: (looking down) I�m sorry.
Pacey: (lifting her face up with his hand) It�s not your fault. I just can�t help thinking that my birthday just won�t be the same without him. (pausing) As much as I hate to admit it, I miss him.
Joey pulls him into a hug, and Pacey rests his head on her shoulder.
Joey: It�s going to all turn out okay in the end.
Pacey: (pulling away he looks at her) How can you be so sure?
Joey: Because I know you, and I know Dawson.
Pacey: You always were smarter than the both of us.
Joey: Not smarter, just not as stubborn.
Pacey: (laughing) You not stubborn?
Joey: Are you calling me stubborn Witter?
Pacey: (shaking his head) Nah, I�d never do that.
Joey smiles before kissing Pacey.
Fade out...
Act 1
Int. Capeside High (Morning of Day 2)
Jack and Jen are walking down the hallway of the high school.
Jen: So what are we doing tonight?
Jack: I don�t know. I just thought I�d come over, and we could study.
Jen: (rolling her eyes) That sounds like fun.
Jack: We could rent a movie.
Jen: We�ve done that the past three nights in a row.
Jack: Got any better ideas? (silence) Thought so.
Jen: You know we are pathetic.
Jack: Come again?
Jen: You and me. We hang out every night together. Don�t get me wrong. I love your company, but...
Jack: (cutting her off) But you wish you were hanging out with someone who actually liked girls.
Jen: Yeah, sorry.
Jack: Don�t apologize.
Jen: I�m over Henry, completely and utterly over Henry.
Jack: That�s good.
Jen: I just feel left out.
Jack: (confused) What do you mean?
Jen: I mean Pacey and Joey have each other, Andie has Daniel, and even Dawson has Tallulah.
Jack: Are they together?
Jen: Well they�ve been (she does air quotes) dating for a few weeks now. I�m the only one without someone. I mean even you have someone.
Jack: Not here though.
Jen: But you still have someone.
Jack: (putting his arm around Jen) You�ll find someone Jen.
Jen: I hope so.
Joey walks up to them, and they stop walking.
Joey: Hey guys.
Jen: Hey Joey.
Jack: What�s up?
Joey: Well I�m throwing Pacey a birthday party.
Jen: That�s right he�s turning the big one eight tomorrow.
Joey: Right, so can I count on you guys to be there?
Jack: Yeah.
Jen: Of course.
Joey: Great. After everything Pacey�s been through lately, I really think he needs a night to just celebrate.
Jen: Need any help?
Joey: Umm I have just about everything covered. It�s at the B&B, Bodie�s doing the food, and cake, Bessie�s covering decorations, and I�m taking care of guests, and entertainment.
Jen: Well if you need any help me and Jack here have absolutely nothing to do tonight.
Joey: Thanks guys.
Jack: No problem.
Joey: Talk to you later.
Joey walks away, and Jack and Jen start walking again.
Jen: Maybe we should go shopping tonight.
Jack: Yeah good idea.
Jen stops, and looks around. Jack stops too, and he looks at her confused.
Jack: What?
Jen: (shaking her head) Nothing.
Jen starts walking again. She has her arms wrapped around her body, and something has clearly upset her.
Jack: (catching up with her) Jen, what is it?
Jen stops and looks around again. She takes a hold of Jack�s arm.
Jen: It�s just lately I keep getting this feeling that someone is watching me, but when I look no one is there.
Jack: Who do you think is watching you?
Jen: I don�t know. (shaking her head she smiles) Maybe I�m just imagining it. (the bell rings) We should get to class.
Jen starts walking again, and Jack follows her, but he is clearly concerned, and not dismissing what Jen told him.
Int. Capeside High Cafeteria (Day 2)
Dawson and Tallulah are sitting across from each other at a table in the cafeteria. Dawson is watching Tallulah in amusement as she picks the tomatoes, and onions out of her sandwich.
Dawson: I�m surprised you even buy lunch here.
Tallulah: (looking up) What do you mean?
Dawson: Nothing you just obviously don�t like the food, and with how picky you are, I�m surprised you don�t bring your own lunch.
Tallulah: I�m not picky.
Dawson: Right.
Tallulah: I�m not. I just like things the way I like them. It�s not being picky it�s being (she searches for the right word) decisive.
Dawson: If that�s what you want to call it.
Tallulah sticks her tongue out at Dawson before picking up her now vegetable free sandwich, and taking a bite. Dawson chuckles, and takes a bite of his own sandwich. They eat in silence for a while.
Tallulah: So tomorrow night is open mic night at Java Books.
Dawson: They have open mic night?
Tallulah: How long have you lived here?
Dawson: Too long.
Tallulah: Yes they have open mic night, and I�m going to read some of my poetry.
Dawson: You write poetry?
Tallulah: You don�t know everything about me Dawson.
Dawson: That I do know.
Tallulah: So do you want to come?
Dawson: (his face clouds over as he realizes what tomorrow is) Tomorrow night?
Tallulah: Yeah the night after tonight.
Dawson: (stumbling over his words) Ummm tomorrow I uhhh...
Tallulah: Is something wrong with tomorrow?
Dawson: (shaking his head he forces a smile on his face) No not at all. Yeah that would great.
Tallulah: (looking at him strangely) Okay.
Dawson: So do I get to rip your poetry to shreds afterwards?
Tallulah: If it makes you happy. I think I can take it.
Dawson smiles, but he is clearly thinking about something else.
Int. Capeside High Library (Day 2)
Andie and Daniel are in the back of the library in the rows of shelves. No one else is around. They are in the middle of some serious kissing and groping. Daniel kisses down Andie�s neck, and Andie opens her eyes. She looks at the books.
Andie: Umm Daniel.
Daniel: (still kissing her neck) Hmmm...
Andie: We should stop.
Daniel kisses up her neck to her mouth. They continue to kiss before Andie pushes him away slightly.
Daniel: What?
Andie: We�re in the library.
Daniel: It�s a nice quiet place.
Daniel leans in to kiss her again. Andie giggles, but puts her hands up to stop him.
Andie: I�m serious.
Daniel: (sighing he steps away from her) Okay, okay.
They stand there for a moment before Andie grabs Daniel�s hand, and yanks him to her. She kisses him, and Daniel pulls her tightly against him. They continue kissing. The sound of footsteps is heard, but they don�t hear anything. Joey rounds the corner, and stops when she sees them.
Joey: (embarrassed) Oh God I�m sorry.
Joey turns around, as Daniel and Andie pull apart.
Andie: Joey wait.
Joey: (turning around slowly) Hey.
Daniel: (smiling) Hey Joey.
Joey: Hey (she pauses) I�m just going to go.
Andie: (slightly embarrassed at being caught) No don�t. I mean if you need a book in this aisle we�ll just... (her voice trails off)
Joey: Actually I was looking for you.
Andie: Really? What�s up?
Daniel starts playing with the waistband of her jeans.
Joey: (noticing Daniel�s actions) If this is a bad time...
Andie: (cutting her off she slaps Daniel�s hand away) No, not at all. What�s up?
Joey: Well tomorrow�s Pacey�s birthday, which I�m sure you know, and I�m throwing him a party at the B&B, can you come?
Andie: Of course I�ll come.
Joey: Thanks.
Andie: It�s Pacey�s birthday. I wouldn�t miss it.
Joey: And Daniel you can come too.
Daniel: Really, I can come?
Andie rolls her eyes, and Joey chuckles.
Joey: So I�ll see you guys there.
Andie: Yeah.
Joey turns around, and walks away. Daniel turns to Andie.
Daniel: So the infamous Pacey Witter is having a birthday party.
Andie: What do you mean?
Daniel: Nothing, just the guy seems to have everything.
Andie: I really wouldn�t say that.
Daniel: Well he�s got a beautiful, smart girlfriend, and an even more beautiful and smarter ex girlfriend. The guy�s way too lucky.
Andie: He�s just (she pauses) Pacey.
Daniel smiles before pulling Andie to him, and kissing her.
Int. Potter Truck (Afternoon Day 2)
Joey is driving, and Pacey is sitting in the passenger seat. She pulls up in front of Doug�s apartment and stops the truck. Pacey unbuckles his seatbelt, and opens the door. Joey doesn�t move. Pacey looks at Joey.
Pacey: You�re not coming in?
Joey: I can�t. (Pacey looks disappointed) I just have a ton of stuff to do (pausing) for the party tomorrow.
Pacey: Do you want some help?
Joey: (shaking her head) No. It�s your party. You shouldn�t have to do anything.
Pacey: Jo, it�s not that big of a deal.
Joey: Pacey it is a big deal, and I don�t want you to do anything except show up tomorrow and have fun.
Pacey: (smiling) I think I can do that.
Joey: I want everything to be perfect for you Pace.
Pacey: (rests his hand on her cheek) It�s going to be great Jo. Thank you for doing this for me.
Joey: (shrugging) It�s the least I could do.
Pacey leans across the seat of the truck, and kisses Joey.
Pacey: I�ll see you later right? (Joey nods) Okay.
Pacey kisses her softly again, before sliding out of the truck. He shuts the door, and watches as Joey drives away. He sighs in happiness before turning and walking up to Doug�s apartment smiling. He opens the door.
Int. Doug�s Apartment (Afternoon Day 2)
Pacey walks into the apartment, and stops dead in his tracks. The smile falls from his face as he takes in the three suitcases sitting in the living room. Doug walks out of his bedroom.
Doug: Pacey.
Pacey: (he looks at Doug in confusion) What�s going on?
Sarah walks out of the bedroom, and Doug puts his arm around her.
Doug: Um well Pacey Sarah is moving in.
Pacey�s mouth drops in shock.
Pacey: What?
Doug: I asked Sarah to move in with me, and she said yes.
Pacey: And you didn�t think to tell me before she actually moved in?
Doug: Pacey, it was a spur of the moment thing.
Sarah rests her hand on Doug�s arm silently asking him to let her talk. She walks over to Pacey.
Sarah: Pacey, I�m sorry. I should have waited till Doug had talked to you, but I was so excited when he asked me this morning that I just ran home and packed some of my stuff.
Pacey: (sarcastically) Some of it?
Sarah: Pacey if this makes you uncomfortable I won�t move in.
Pacey: (snapping out of his confused daze) What?
Sarah: I should have waited, but if this isn�t cool with you...
Pacey: (interrupting her) No (pausing he smiles) of course it�s cool with me.
Sarah: Are you sure?
Pacey: Yeah, (pausing) I mean yeah. I�m just a little shocked is all.
Sarah: (smiling) So was I.
Sarah turns to smile at Doug.
Doug: Pace, it�s not going to change anything except possibly the fact that it would probably be in everyone�s best interest if you didn�t walk around in your boxers now.
Pacey: (chuckling) Right, I won�t be doing that anymore. (pausing) Congratulations.
Sarah: Thank you Pacey.
Sarah moves towards Pacey, and hugs him. Pacey awkwardly puts his arms around Sarah and forces himself to smile, but he is clearly troubled.
Int. Leery�s Fresh Fish (Afternoon of Day 2)
Joey walks into the restaurant, and stops in the doorway to look around. Seeing Gale at the bar she walks over.
Joey: Hey Mrs. Leery.
Gale: (turning around with a big smile) Hi Joey.
Joey: How are you doing?
Gale: (touching her stomach lightly) Good. So what brings you by?
Joey: I was looking for Dawson.
Gale: He�s in the back.
Joey: Can I?
Gale: (cutting her off) Of course go on back.
Joey: Thanks.
Gale: It was good seeing you Joey.
Joey: You too.
Joey smiles at Gale before walking towards the back of the restaurant. She pushes open the door to the stockroom, and stops. Dawson is crouching in front of the shelves against the back wall.
Joey: (still standing in the doorway) Dawson?
Dawson: (looks back slightly startled) Joey.
Joey: Is this a bad time?
Dawson: (standing up) No, I was just doing some inventory for my mom. What�s up?
Joey walks into the stockroom, and closes the door behind her.
Joey: I need to ask you for a favor.
Dawson: (hesitantly) Okay.
Joey: I know I really have no right to do that, but...
Dawson: (cutting her off) We�re friends Jo. (pausing) You can ask me anything.
Joey: (nervously) Even if it�s about Pacey?
Dawson: (he closes his eyes, and opens them again) Yeah even about Pacey. I can�t promise to do what you want, but you can ask.
Joey: It�s his birthday tomorrow.
Dawson: (laughing lightly) Jo, me and Pacey may not be the best of friends right now, or even really friends, but I do remember when his birthday is.
Joey: Then you remember how important it is to him even though he would never admit it.
Dawson: (looking down) Yeah I know.
Joey: Dawson (pausing) would you come to his party?
Dawson: (sighing heavily) Umm, wow, I don�t know Jo. I mean I don�t know if he would even want me there.
Joey: He does, Dawson. I know he does.
Dawson: I just... (stopping)
Joey: Just think about it. Please Dawson. It would mean so much to him. I know it would, and it would be a really really nice birthday present.
Dawson: I�ll think about it.
Joey: Thank you Dawson.
Dawson nods. Joey turns around, and she starts walking towards the door, but she stops.
Joey: Dawson (she turns around) about what I said, about us not being able to go back to the way we were.
Dawson: (interrupting) You were right.
Joey: It didn�t mean I didn�t want us to be friends.
Dawson: (looking down) I know.
Joey: Maybe we could start over sometime.
Dawson: (looking up again) I�d like that.
Joey looks in his eyes searching for sincerity. When she finds it she smiles.
Joey: Me too.
Joey holds his gaze for a split second longer before turning and leaving the stockroom. When the door closes, Dawson sighs, and leans back against the shelves.
Fade out...
Act 2
Int. Clothing Store (Afternoon Day 2)
Jack and Jen are in the store shopping. Jen is on one side of a rack of clothing, and Jack is on the other side. Jen is looking through some sweaters. She pulls a plain black one off the rack, and holds it up to Jack.
Jen: What do you think of this one?
Jack: (looking at it) A little boring for Pacey.
Jen rolls her eyes before putting it back. She pulls out a dark blue one with a black collar, and stripe. She holds it up to Jack.
Jen: This one maybe?
Jack: (shaking his head no) Why are you buying him a sweater anyways?
Jen: What�s wrong with a sweater?
Jack: (with a chuckle) Nothing.
Jen: Pacey is not the easiest person to shop for. What are you getting him?
Jack holds up a button up shirt with a loud pattern of fruit.
Jen: (laughing) Very nice.
Jack shrugs before putting it back on the rack. Jen moves away from that rack. She moves to a display of hats. She looks them over before pulling a beanie off the shelf. She pulls it over her head.
Jen: How does this look?
She turns around, and is startled when she comes face to face with a man who is not Jack. The man�s name is Jude, and he works at the store. He has short bleached blonde hair with just the slightest bit of dark roots showing. His eyes are so dark they are almost black.
Jude: It looks good.
Jen: (yanking it off) Thanks.
Jen smoothes her hair as Jude continues to stare at her.
Jen: I was just (pausing) shopping for a present for a friend.
Jude: Do you need help finding something?
Jen: I was just looking.
Jude: Okay, well if you do need any help don�t be afraid to ask.
Jen: (with a shy smile) Thanks.
Jude walks away, and Jen watches him clearly intrigued. Jack comes up behind her and places his hand on her shoulder. Jen nearly jumps out of her skin.
Jack: It�s just me. (Jen turns around, and slaps Jack on the arm) Oww why�d you do that?
Jen: When a girl tells you she feels like someone is constantly watching her don�t sneak up on her.
Jack: (rubbing his arm) Sorry. (he pauses) He was cute.
Jen: Who was?
Jack: (smiling knowingly) The guy you were just staring at with that dreamy expression on your face.
Jen: I was not.
Jack: Were too.
Jen: Maybe a little, but I was not all dreamy looking.
Jack: If you say so.
Jen: (with a warning tone) Jack.
Jack: You�re over Henry, as you so pointedly expressed this morning, so why are you being so touchy about this.
Jen: (defensive) I�m not being touchy. (she grabs his arm) Let�s go.
Jack: (mumbling as he follows Jen) Not touchy right.
Int. McPhee House (Night of Day 2)
Andie is sitting in the living room. Her feet are curled up underneath her as she sits on the couch reading a book. Mr. McPhee comes into the doorway.
Mr. McPhee: Andie, you have a visitor.
Andie looks up. Mr. McPhee walks away revealing Dawson behind him.
Andie: Hey Dawson.
Dawson: Hey Andie, can we talk?
Andie: Of course.
Andie sets her book down on the table. Dawson walks over to the couch and sits next to her. He glances at the book.
Andie: So what�s up?
Dawson: Have you heard about Pacey�s birthday party?
Andie: (cautiously) Yeah, Joey told me this afternoon. She did invite you, didn't she?
Dawson: Yeah she did. I just don�t know whether I should go or not.
Andie: Do you want to go?
Dawson: I�ve never missed Pacey�s birthday. Even when I forgot his sixteenth birthday, I was able to still be there and make up for it. If I don�t go I can never make that up, but if I do go I could ruin the whole party.
Andie: If it were your birthday party, would you want him there?
Dawson stops and thinks about it.
Dawson: Yeah I would.
Andie: Then go Dawson.
Dawson: (sighing) Well it�s not that simple.
Andie: Why not?
Dawson: I'm supposed to go out with Tallulah tomorrow night.
Andie: (she looks away, and her voice has a slight edge of disapproval) Oh.
Dawson: (looking at Andie) What? You don�t like her?
Andie: (looking back at Dawson) No, of course not. I mean I�ve met her once. How could I form an accurate opinion of her?
Dawson: She�s really (he pauses) interesting, and fun. I�m sure if you got to know her you�d like her too.
Andie: I�m sure I would, but it doesn�t matter if I like her. It matters that you like her.
Dawson: I do like her.
Andie: Good.
Dawson: I still don�t know what to do.
Andie: Well I can�t really tell you what to do Dawson. I know it would mean a lot to Pacey, and Joey if you went to his party, but you have to do what makes you happy.
Dawson: I have a feeling no matter what I do I�ll disappoint someone.
Andie: Dawson it�s not so serious as that. Talk to Tallulah. I�m sure if you explain that it�s your best friend�s birthday she�ll understand.
Dawson: (quietly) Yeah my best friend.
Andie: You don�t think of Pacey as your best friend anymore, do you?
Dawson: (shaking his head) No, the sad thing is I still do.
Andie: (she rests her hand on his knee) He thinks that way too.
Dawson: I doubt it.
Andie: (firmly) He does.
Dawson: Did he tell you this?
Andie: No, but I know Pacey. I may not be his girlfriend anymore, but I know Pacey, and so do you.
Dawson: (slightly doubtful) Yeah.
Ext. True Love (Night of Day 2)
Joey approaches the boat wrapped in a jacket, hat, and gloves to fend off the cold. She is carrying a cake box. Pacey is sitting on the deck equally bundled up in clothing. Joey climbs aboard, and Pacey looks up at her. She sets the cake down.
Joey: I got your message. Why did you want to meet here? It�s freezing.
Pacey: I wanted us to be alone.
Joey: (raising her eyebrow) Alone huh?
Pacey: Well it is my birthday.
Joey: Not for another 13 minutes.
Pacey takes Joey�s hand, and pulls her into his lap. They share a long kiss.
Joey: I take it Sarah is at Doug�s again?
Pacey: (his face clouds over) Yeah.
Joey: (noticing the change) Is something wrong?
Pacey: Not at all. I just wanted a private celebration.
Joey: (with a smile) I can�t imagine why.
Pacey: (grinning) Can�t you?
They kiss again. Joey pulls away, and she rests her forehead against Pacey�s.
Joey: I�m suddenly not cold anymore.
Pacey: Me neither.
Pacey pulls her into another kiss. They pull apart.
Pacey: So you brought a cake, but where�s my present?
Joey: You get your present tomorrow at the party.
Pacey: In front of all those people. I�m shocked Jo. I never knew you were such an exhibitionist.
Joey: (she slaps him on the shoulder) That�s not your present.
Pacey: Can�t blame a guy for trying right?
Joey looks away.
Pacey: (sighing) Jo, I�m sorry.
Joey: (looking back at him) It�s okay. I guess I deserve it sometimes for keeping you waiting.
Pacey: (holding her face in his hand) Don�t say that. It�s a non issue. When you�re ready I know you will tell me. I�m not trying to pressure you, and even if you never want to sleep with me that�s fine too.
Joey: I do Pacey.
Pacey kisses her forehead.
Int. Doug�s Apartment (Night of Day 2)
Sarah is standing at the kitchen counter in a robe. She�s drinking a glass of milk. Doug comes in to the kitchen.
Doug: If I knew you were going to be prowling the apartment at all hours of the night I would never have asked you to move in.
Sarah: (turning around) It�s not even midnight yet.
Doug: Are you okay?
Sarah: Yeah I was just thirsty.
Sarah takes a drink of her milk.
Sarah: Doug?
Doug: Hmm?
Sarah: Do you think Pacey is going to be okay?
Doug: Yeah, why wouldn�t he be?
Sarah: I don�t know. I just got the feeling he was upset this afternoon.
Doug: I think he was just surprised. He�ll be fine.
Sarah: Doug?
Doug: (hesitantly) What?
Sarah: When was the last time Pacey had a home? I mean a real home.
Doug: (slightly angry) What do you mean? Are you saying I didn�t provide him with a home?
Sarah: (resting her hand on his arm) Of course not. I just think he feels like he doesn�t belong anywhere. I mean he sleeps on the couch Doug.
Doug: (raising his voice) I took him in Sarah. When no one else would. What more could I do? I only have one room.
Sarah: (backing away from Doug) I�ve clearly overstepped my bounds. I should have stayed out of it.
Doug: Sarah I�m sorry. I didn�t mean to yell. It�s just (he pauses) Pacey is different. He�s different from every other Witter. I don�t always know what to say to him, or how to be a good brother.
Sarah: You are a good brother Doug.
Doug: I don�t think Pacey would agree.
Sarah: I think he would.
Ext. True Love (Night of Day 2)
Joey is lighting the candles on the birthday cake. When she is done she sits back down next to Pacey. They sit in silence as the candles flicker in the breeze. In the distance a clock chimes midnight. Joey turns to Pacey, and moves to kiss him.
Joey: (whispering on his lips) Happy Birthday Pace.
They kiss, and pull apart as the twelfth chime echoes in the night.
Joey: Now make a wish, and blow out your candles before the wind does it for you.
Pacey: Aren�t you going to sing Happy Birthday.
Joey: (laughing) No.
Pacey: Oh come on.
Joey: (shaking her head) No way. I can�t.
Pacey: Come on for me.
Joey: Forget it Pacey.
Pacey: I�m not blowing out the candles until you sing for me.
Joey: Well then we�ll just sit here until your cake is covered with wax, and the wind finishes them off.
Pacey: What if I told you my birthday wish was to have you sing for me.
Joey: Well then I�d say if you tell someone your wish it doesn�t come true.
Pacey: Good Lord woman you are tricky.
Joey laughs, and then leans over.
Joey: (in a singing whisper in his ear) Happy Birthday to you. Happy Birthday to you. Happy Birthday dear Pacey. Happy Birthday to you.
Pacey turns his head, and kisses her.
Ext. Capeside High (Morning of Day 3)
Dawson is walking towards the high school. He sees Tallulah up ahead, and runs to catch up with her.
Dawson: (stopping beside her a little out of breath) Hey.
Tallulah: (stopping) Hey Dawson, run a marathon this morning?
Dawson: Cute.
Tallulah: I thought so.
Tallulah takes a hold of Dawson�s elbow, and they start walking towards the entrance.
Dawson: So how are you?
Tallulah: Good, and yourself?
Dawson: (nervously) Okay.
Tallulah: Say it again and this time try a little harder to be believable. (Dawson laughs) What�s on your mind?
Dawson: I don�t think I can go tonight.
Tallulah: (shrugging) No big.
Dawson: You�re not mad?
Tallulah: Why would I be mad?
She opens the door of the high school, and they walk inside.
Int. Capeside High School (Morning of Day 2)
Tallulah and Dawson continue walking and talking down the hallway.
Dawson: I don�t know cause I said I would go, and now I�m backing out.
Tallulah: (stopping she faces him) Is it something I did?
Dawson: No of course not.
Tallulah: (laughing) Then it�s not a big deal.
Dawson: Okay.
They start walking again. They walk in silence for a while. Dawson stops again.
Dawson: Do you care whether or not I go?
Tallulah: (stopping) I�m not heartbroken if that�s what you�re asking. It takes more than a canceled date to break me Dawson. Plus I figured tonight was something from your reaction yesterday.
Dawson: You did?
Tallulah: Yes Dawson. It may be a curse, but I do not suffer from Capeside cluelessness.
Dawson: Lucky you.
Tallulah: The luck of the Irish.
Dawson: You�re Irish?
Tallulah: (laughing) Does it really matter?
Dawson: I guess not.
Tallulah: (touching his cheek lightly) You can always come the next time I decide to public humiliate myself.
Dawson: Definitely.
Tallulah smiles, and they start walking again.
Tallulah: So what�s tonight if you don�t mind me asking?
Dawson: A friend�s birthday party.
Tallulah: You should definitely go to that.
Dawson: I�d invite you but...
Tallulah: But I already have plans. It's okay. While you're out partying the night away I'll be dodging tomatoes.
Dawson: Do people actually throw tomatoes? I've always wondered that.
Tallulah: (laughing) I think they are metaphorical tomatoes.
Int. Doug�s Apartment (Afternoon Day 3)
Pacey is in the living room shoving all his clothes into a duffel bag. The front door opens, and Doug walks in. He stops when he sees what Pacey is doing.
Doug: Pacey.
Pacey: (looking up) Hey Doug. I didn�t expect you to be home.
Doug: (confused) What are you doing?
Pacey: Collecting my scarce belongings.
Doug: Where are you going?
Pacey: (shrugging) Doesn�t really matter now does it?
Doug: Of course it matters. You�re 17, you can�t just leave.
Pacey: Ahh Dougie that�s where you�re wrong. I�m 18, but I guess in typical Witter fashion you forgot that I turned 18 today, which makes me officially, or at least lawfully, an adult, and I can go wherever I please.
Doug: Pace, I didn�t forget your birthday.
Pacey: Okay so you didn�t forget. It doesn�t change anything.
Doug: Doesn�t change what?
Pacey: (raising his voice) That you never wanted me here in the first place.
Doug: Pacey that�s not true.
Pacey: Isn�t it?
Doug: (his voice rises) No it�s not. (his voice lowers) You�re my brother Pace. I would never turn you away.
Pacey: Come on Doug for 16 years of my life all you did was tear me down, and now you expect me to believe you care that much. I know Dad sent you money to let me live here, and now that I�m 18 I figure that money will stop. Hell it�s probably the only reason Pop would remember my birthday this year.
Doug: Where is all this coming from Pacey? I know I made mistakes in the past, but I thought we were getting past that.
Pacey: (sighing) I just don�t belong here Doug. I don�t belong anywhere.
Doug: Pace you don�t have to leave because you�re 18, or because Sarah is moving in. She wants you to live with us.
Pacey: She�s a great girl Doug. I haven�t quite figured out how you got so damn lucky, or what she sees in you, but she�s great. I�m really happy for you and for her.
Doug: (quietly) Thank you.
Pacey: But I�m not staying.
Pacey starts packing his clothes again.
Doug: (getting frustrated) Pacey don�t be pig headed and irrational.
Pacey: But that�s what I�m good at.
Doug: Fine. If it�s what you want. I�m not going to stand here and beg you to stay. I�m not going to stand here and beg you to appreciate all I�ve done for you, or beg you to believe that I did it cause I love you. I�m just not going to do it little brother. You�re 18. It�s your life.
Doug turns around, and he walks to the door.
Pacey: (calling after him) Doug.
Doug doesn�t answer. He just leaves.
Int. Clothing Store (Afternoon Day 3)
Jen walks into the store alone. She walks in between the racks of clothes scanning the store. She jumps when she hears a voice from behind her.
Jude: Back again.
Jen: (turning around surprised) God, you scared me.
Jude: I apologize for that. It was most certainly not my intention.
Jen: (smiling) It�s okay. I�m just a little jumpy lately.
Jude: Switch to decaf. It helped me.
Jen: (laughing) I�ll try that.
Jude: So are you still searching for a gift for your friend?
Jen: Actually I am.
Jude: Do you need any help?
Jen: If you were turning 18 what would you want to get?
Jude: Well for my 18th birthday my best friend Danielle took me to get a tattoo.
Jen: Did it hurt?
Jude: I chickened out when we got there. I�m needlephopic.
Jen: (laughing) I�m not a big needle fan either.
Jude: So I�m assuming you are tattoo free.
Jen: (nodding) Plus I�m only 17, and no way would my Grams consent to letting me get a tattoo.
Jude: You have beautiful skin you shouldn�t mare it anyways.
Jen: (lowering her head) Thank you.
Jude: So this friend of yours, what does he like?
Int. Potter B&B (Night of Day 3)
Joey is in the kitchen frantically checking the assortment of refreshments laid out on the table. She silently checks things off on her fingers. She moves to the counter and lifts the lid of the cake box. She moves a little way and starts unwrapping packages of paper plates, and plastic cups. Bessie walks into the room.
Bessie: Everything�s ready.
Joey: (not looking up) No it�s not. I still have to arrange the CD�s in the player, finish setting up the food, and move the rest of the furniture out of the living room. (she looks frantically up at the clock. It reads 7:25) I�m never going to finish in time. (she looks down at her clothes) And I still have to change.
Bessie: (resting her hand on Joey�s shoulder) Go get dressed.
Joey: I have to finish this.
Bessie: I�ll finish the food, Bodie will move the furniture, and when you are dressed you can work on the music okay.
Joey: (hesitantly) You�ll finish for me?
Bessie: Yes now go pretty yourself up, and stop worrying. The party is going to be great. Pacey�s going to love it.
Joey: I�m so scared no one is going to show up.
Bessie: Jo, people are going to show up. They are going to have a good time, and Pacey is going to love you even more after tonight if that is even humanly possible. (Joey smiles) Now go, you look horrible.
Joey: Gee thanks Bessie.
Joey hurries out of the kitchen, and Bessie starts to finish the food arrangements.
Ext. True Love (Night of Day 3)
Pacey is sitting on the deck of his boat. He is staring off into the distance. He picks up his bottle of soda, and he holds it up as if making a toast.
Pacey: Happy Birthday Pacey Witter.
He takes a drink as he continues to stare out into the emptiness lost as to what he is going to do now.
Fade out...
Act 3
Int. Potter B&B (Night of Day 3)
The party has started. Music is playing, and a crowd of about 20 people is gathered at the B&B. Joey walks through the crowd. She looks around obviously still nervous about the party. She stops to say hi to a group of people before moving along. She waves to Jack and Jen who are standing off to the side talking, and laughing. The door opens, and Andie, and Daniel enter. Andie is carrying a present. They walk into the room, and Joey meets them by the door.
Andie: Hey Joey, the party looks great.
Joey: Thanks. Hey Daniel, thanks for coming.
Daniel: No problem. Capeside is seriously lacking in the party department as it is.
Joey: (laughing lightly) Well I can�t promise a wild and crazy time, but I can offer food, and friends.
Daniel: Good enough for me.
Joey: Let me get your coats.
Andie shrugs off her jacket, and Daniel takes off his as well. Joey takes them.
Andie: So where�s the birthday boy?
Joey: (nervously) He�s not here yet.
Andie: Just like Pacey to be late to his own party. I don�t know how you put up with him Joey.
Joey: (smiling) It�s difficult, but I manage. Well Jack and Jen are here, there�s food in the kitchen, and I�m sure Pacey will turn up soon.
Joey turns around, and walks towards the back of the B&B to put their coats away.
Daniel: Is it just me, or does she seem a little on edge tonight?
Andie: It�s not you. I can�t help feeling that there�s something going on with Pacey lately.
Daniel: What do you mean?
Andie: Just he�s been acting weird lately, and Joey has been acting weird lately, and (she stops) God I hope they are okay. I never thought I�d say this, but I really don�t want them to break up.
Daniel: (laughing he puts his arms around Andie, and holds her from behind) Shocking revelation isn�t it?
Andie: A little.
Daniel: Well I wouldn�t worry about those two.
Andie: Why not?
Daniel: (whispering in her ear) Because you could be thinking about other things.
Andie: (raising her eyebrow) Other things.
Daniel: Yes other things.
Andie: Such as?
Daniel: That this is a B&B, it�s off season, and there are probably many empty bedrooms.
Daniel kisses her neck.
Andie: Nice try buddy.
Andie pulls way, and Daniel shrugs.
Daniel: Well then how about I�m starving.
Andie: You�re such a boy.
Daniel: I prefer man.
Andie: You would.
Andie takes his hand, and they walk towards the kitchen. Jack and Jen watch them disappear into the other room.
Jen: Ahh young love.
Jack: It�s sickening isn�t it?
Jen: Terribly. (they both laugh) It�s great to see Andie happy.
Jack: It is.
Jen: I like Daniel too.
Jack: You would.
Jen: (turning to look at Jack) You don�t?
Jack: (with a shrug) He�s all right.
Jen: Jack.
Jack: Jen.
Jen: I�m just saying he�s good for Andie.
Jack: She�s happy, and that�s all that matters.
Jen: (not believing him) Is it?
Jack: He just better not hurt her.
Jen rolls her eyes. They watch the party in silence for a while. Jen looks out the window.
Jack: So what did you finally get Pacey?
Jen: (startled out of her thoughts) What?
Jack: (talking slowly and emphasizing each word) You know for his birthday. (Back to talking normal) The present you said you were going to go buy this afternoon.
Jen: (waving her hand she turns away from the window) Oh that I bought him a gift certificate.
Jack: Nothing says I love you like a gift certificate.
Jen: (defensive) Well what did you buy him?
Jack: I uh um I got him a... (his voice trails off)
Jen: Well?
Jack: (quietly) A gift certificate.
Jen: (laughing) Nothing says I love you like a gift certificate.
Jack: I deserved that.
Jen: Yes you did. (the song changes) I love this song.
Jack: Go dance.
Jen: (taking his hand) Dance with me.
Jack: (pulling his hand away) No way.
Jen: Come on.
Jack: Have you seen me dance?
Jen: (thinking for a moment) Come to think of it I haven�t, but hey there�s a first time for everything.
Jack: Not this time.
Jen: Why not?
Jack: I don�t dance, but you should go dance, mingle, get to know people, have fun.
Jen: I know everyone here.
Jack: That�s not the point.
Jen: (putting her hands up) Okay Jack, I love you, but this whole Jen needs to find a man campaign is ticking me off.
Jack: Sorry, I just want to see you happy, and having fun.
Jen: I�m having fun Jack. Standing here hanging out with my best friend in the whole world is fun. I mean yes sometimes I get lonely for the company of a straight male, but Jack I don�t need you fussing over me like a mother hen. I�m fine.
Jack: (seriously) I�m sorry Jen. I�ll stop. I promise.
Jen: Okay. Anyways I�m here for Pacey, and the pickings in this place are rather slim.
Jen waves her hand around the room indicating the males assembled at the party. Jack�s eyes scan the room too.
Jack: I have to agree with you on that.
Jen: Not a cute boy in sight.
Jack: Well you could always go find that sales guy from yesterday.
Jen: Jack, you said you�d stop.
Jack: (laughing) Sorry I couldn�t resist.
Jen: (narrowing her eyes at Jack) You�re evil.
Jack: And you�re obvious.
Jen: He was cute.
Jack: (nodding his head with a amused smile on his face) Extremely.
Jen: He was really nice too.
Jack: He seemed to be.
Jen: I saw him this afternoon.
Jack: (the smile fades) You what?
Jen: I went back this afternoon, and talked to him.
Jack: You little sneak. Why didn�t you tell me before?
Jen: I don�t tell you everything Jack.
Jack: You could at least tell me the good stuff.
Jen: You�d tease me horribly.
Jack: You love it.
Jen: You�re delusional.
Int. Doug�s Apartment (Night of Day 3)
Doug is sitting at the kitchen table. He�s sort of staring off into space deep in thought. The front door opens and shuts. Doug looks towards the living room.
Doug: (calling out) Pacey.
Sarah appears in the kitchen doorway.
Sarah: It�s just me.
Doug: Hey Sarah.
Sarah takes in his appearance. Doug is clearly troubled.
Sarah: What�s wrong?
Sarah sits down next to Doug.
Doug: Pacey left.
Sarah: (shocked) What?
Doug: I came home this afternoon, and he was packing his stuff. We fought. I left, and when I came back he was gone.
Sarah: Oh God. Where did he go?
Doug: (shaking his head) I have no idea.
Sarah: (looking at her hands) It�s because of me isn�t it?
Doug: (taking her hands in his) No it�s not.
Sarah: It is Doug. My moving in made him feel like he couldn�t stay here.
Doug: Sarah, Pacey has a lot of issues when it comes to our family. I�m partially to blame for that. Who am I kidding? I�m just as responsible for what Pacey had to deal with growing up. The way I treated him...I didn�t know how else to deal with him.
Sarah: You blame yourself too much.
Doug: Thank you, but it�s not true. Pacey is an original. Growing up with Dad and me we both tried to change him, to mold him into us, but he�s not like us, and he�s the better for it. But all that fighting, all that grief we gave him, it still bothers him. He would never admit it, because in that way he is a Witter, but I know it does.
Sarah: What are you going to do?
Doug: I have no idea. I don�t think there is anything I can do to make up for it all.
Sarah: Let me talk to him.
Doug: (looking up at her in shock) What?
Sarah: Let me talk to him.
Doug: I don�t think it will do any good, and I don�t even know where he is.
Sarah: I think I know where he is, and I think you do too.
Doug: True Love.
Sarah: (nodding) It�s the only think in this world that is truly his.
Doug: You understand him, how is that?
Sarah: It�s easier to understand things when you�re not involved. Everything�s a lot clearer from the outside.
Int. Potter B&B (Night of Day 3)
Daniel is standing by the CD player shuffling through a stack of CD�s. Andie walks over to him.
Andie: I thought you ran away.
Daniel: Abandonment issues? (Andie gives him a look) I just went out to my car.
Daniel holds up the stack of CD�s.
Andie: You can�t just change the CD.
Daniel: Why not?
Andie: It�s not your house.
Daniel: I�m trying to liven this party up. I mean this music (he nods towards the CD player) just isn�t cutting it.
Andie: Well not everyone has such exquisite taste as you. (she glances at the top CD of the stack) The Clash? No one wants to listen to The Clash.
Daniel: Not true. Everybody wants to Rock the Casbah.
Andie: Huh?
Daniel: Never mind. I�m sure Joey won�t mind.
Joey passes by at that moment.
Daniel: Joey. (Joey stops clearly distracted) You don�t mind if I play with the CD player do you?
Joey: (distracted) What?
Daniel: CD�s I was going to put in some of mine.
Joey: (waving her hand) Do what you want.
Joey walks away.
Andie: (worried) Something�s wrong.
Daniel: You think?
Andie: Maybe I should go talk to her.
Andie starts to walk away, but Daniel grabs her arm.
Daniel: Or not. Until Pacey shows up it�s not going to matter what you say to her.
Andie: Where could he be?
Ext. True Love (Night of Day 3)
Pacey is still sitting on the deck of True Love. He hears footsteps on the dock, and he looks in their direction. He sees Sarah approaching his boat, and he inwardly groans.
Sarah: Hey Pacey.
Pacey: Hey.
Sarah: I�ve never seen your boat. It�s beautiful.
Pacey: Thanks.
Sarah: Can I come up?
Pacey: Be my guest. Though if you�re here to talk about Doug you might as well leave.
Sarah: (climbing up onto the boat) I kind of wanted to talk about you.
Pacey: There�s nothing to say.
Sarah: Nothing at all?
Pacey: Not to be mean, but I don�t want to talk.
Sarah: Okay, can you listen?
Pacey: Are you going to lecture me?
Sarah: I do enough lecturing all day at school. (Pacey laughs lightly) I don�t presume to know you all that well, but I really would like to get to know you better.
Pacey: Why? I mean I won�t be in the way anymore.
Sarah: You were never in the way Pacey. You�re Doug�s brother, and I love him. I want to be a part of his life, and you are a part of his life. He loves you. (Pacey snorts) He does Pacey. He doesn�t always know how to show it, but it doesn�t mean he doesn�t.
Pacey: I thought you weren�t going to talk about Doug.
Sarah: Sorry. (They sit in silence for a while) What are you going to do Pacey?
Pacey: I don�t know.
Sarah: You can come back to Doug�s. He wants you to. He is worried.
Pacey: I can�t. It�s just another place to stay. It�s another couch to sleep on.
Sarah: I can�t begin to understand how your life has been. I�m not even going to act like I know what it�s like to not have a real home.
Pacey: It sucks.
Sarah laughs lightly.
Sarah: I imagine it does.
Pacey: You�ve done wonders for Doug.
Sarah: What?
Pacey: You�re good for him. You make him almost human.
Sarah: Scary thought huh?
Pacey: Frightening.
Sarah: If you ever want to talk Pacey, I�m a good listener.
Pacey: Thanks.
Sarah: (standing up) I�ll leave you alone. Just know that you are always welcome at the apartment whether it�s just to eat, or talk, or sleep.
Pacey: Thanks.
Sarah climbs down from True Love. She turns to look up at Pacey.
Sarah: Happy Birthday Pacey.
Pacey doesn�t say anything, and Sarah walks away.
Int. Potter B&B (Night of Day 3)
The party is still going on. The front door opens, and Dawson walks in. He looks around the room, and his eyes meet Jen�s. She is talking to Joey. He heads that way.
Jen: Hey Dawson.
Dawson: Hey guys. Sorry I�m late Joey.
Joey: No big deal.
Dawson: There was a slight baby crisis at my house.
Jen: (worried) Is everything okay?
Dawson: Everything�s fine. My mother insisted I couldn�t leave until I felt the baby kick. Of course the baby wasn�t exactly cooperating. (Jen laughs) Hey Jo, is everything okay?
Joey: Everything�s fine.
Joey turns, and she walks away.
Dawson: (watching Joey leave) Now why don�t I believe her?
Jen: Cause even a blind man could see she�s not okay.
Dawson: (looking at Jen) What�s the deal? Where�s Pacey?
Jen: Bingo.
Dawson: What?
Jen: The birthday boy has yet to make an appearance.
Dawson: You�re kidding.
Jen: Unfortunately I�m not. Joey is climbing the walls. I can�t tell if she�s more worried, or angry.
Dawson: Knowing Joey she�s worrying herself sick, but as soon as he shows up she�ll be angry. I�m going to go talk to her.
Jen: Be nice.
Dawson: I will.
Dawson walks in the direction that Joey went. He walks to her room. The door is slightly ajar. Dawson waits outside as he hears Joey talking on the phone.
Joey: (from behind the door) He�s not there. (pause) Do you know where he is? (pause) What happened? (pause; yelling) Doug if I could talk to Pacey I would, but I have no idea where he is. (pause) Sorry I know it�s not your fault. If you hear from him tell him to call me, or something okay? (pause) Thanks Doug.
The door opens, and Joey jumps when she sees Dawson on the other side.
Joey: Dammit Dawson what are you doing lurking outside my door?
Dawson: I came to see if you were okay.
Joey: I�m fine.
Dawson: No you�re not.
Joey: I don�t want to talk about this.
Dawson: With me or at all?
Joey: (getting choked up) At all.
Dawson hesitantly lifts his arms before pulling Joey into a hug. Joey just stands in his embrace.
Dawson: I�m sure there�s a good explanation Jo. Pacey wouldn�t just not show up. He wouldn�t do that to you.
Joey: (hugging Dawson back) I don�t know what�s going on with him lately Dawson. He�s shutting me out. I don�t know what to do.
Dawson: I don�t know either Jo. I�m sorry I just don�t know.
Joey: (pulling away from Dawson) It�s okay. Thanks Dawson.
Dawson: For what?
Joey: Coming tonight even though it�s a complete disaster. For being a friend even though things are still weird between us.
Dawson: No matter what happens Jo, I�ll always be here for you as a friend.
Joey: (smiling) That�s the best thing I�ve heard all day.
Dawson: (smiling) Go, go talk to him.
Joey: I�m so mad at him right now. I mean I did all this for him, and he didn�t even show up.
Dawson: Give him a chance to explain, Jo.
Joey: (sighing) I don�t even know where he is.
Dawson: Yeah you do. Pacey can be hard to understand some times, and he can be unpredictable, but there are some things that never change.
Joey: (quietly) True Love. (Dawson nods) Will you...
Dawson: (cutting her off) I�ll take care of it.
Joey: Thanks.
Joey walks away in a hurry, and Dawson sighs. He walks back out into the living room. Jen pounces on him immediately.
Jen: Where�s Joey?
Dawson: She went to find Pacey.
Jen: (concerned) Are you okay?
Dawson: I�m actually doing pretty good right about now. So should we clear everyone out, or let them party for a while longer?
Jen: Let �em party. Wanna dance with me Dawson?
Dawson: I�d love to.
Jen smiles, and she takes Dawson�s hand as they make their way to a vacant spot.
Ext. True Love (Night of Day 3)
Joey walks towards True Love. Pacey is no longer on the deck. Joey climbs up onto the boat, and then makes her way below.
Int. True Love (Night of Day 3)
Pacey is lying on the bed. He looks up when he hears someone coming down the steps. Joey appears.
Pacey: (surprised) Jo.
Joey: It�s a funny thing. I was at this party tonight. In fact it was a birthday party, and the punch line is that the guest of honor never showed up.
Pacey: You�re mad.
Joey: (hands on her hips) Yeah I�m mad.
Fade out...
Act 4
Int. True Love (Night of Day 3)
The scene continues...
Joey: I�m really mad (her face softens) But I�m also really worried, and really scared. What is happening here Pacey? What is going on? The man I thought I knew, the man I thought I loved, would never leave me alone like that.
Pacey: Jo, this has nothing to do with you. It�s just a lot has happened in my life lately.
Joey: And it has nothing to do with me? How is that possible, Pacey? I�m your girlfriend. I love you, and whatever happens to you effects me, it happens to me too.
Pacey: (quietly) I know.
Joey: If you know then why are you doing this? Why are you shutting me out?
Pacey: I don�t know what to say.
Joey: Why didn�t you come tonight? I mean if you didn�t want a party why didn�t you just say so.
Pacey: I tried to.
Joey: You said it was okay. If you didn�t really want a party Pacey you shouldn�t have said it was okay. You shouldn�t have let me go through the trouble. I mean Pacey I stressed about this. I stressed about making sure everything was perfect. I asked Dawson to come. Do you know how hard that was for me?
Pacey: (shocked) Dawson was there?
Joey: Yeah he was. He showed, but you didn�t.
Pacey: Jo, I didn�t not show up to hurt you, and I didn�t agree with the intention of not showing up. I just...(his voice trails off)
Joey: You just what?
Pacey: Didn�t feel like celebrating today.
Joey: It�s your birthday Pacey.
Pacey: And with my birthday comes tragedy.
Joey: Tragedy?
Pacey: Well maybe tragedy is a strong word. I mean it�s not like I killed my dad, and married my mother, but today has not been the best day.
Joey: (moving to sit next to Pacey) What happened?
Pacey: What happened? Well I�ve found myself basically homeless.
Joey: (enraged) What? Doug threw you out?
Pacey: Not exactly.
Joey: Then what exactly?
Pacey: Sarah has moved in, and I�ve moved out. Not that I had to move out, but (his voice starts to crack with emotion) I don�t belong there Jo. I never did. I don�t have a place to call home, a place where I don�t feel like a burden, or a guest. I�m 18 years old Jo, and I have nowhere that I belong.
Joey: Yes you do.
Pacey: (shaking his head) Not really.
Joey: (holding his face in her hands) Yes you do Pacey. You belong with me.
Pacey: Thanks Jo, but...
Joey: (cutting him off) No you listen to me. You belong with me. No matter where I am I only feel at home with you. I know things have been rocky between us lately. It�s been confusing, and hard, and on paper maybe we don�t make sense, but despite all that, despite everything that has happened, and may happen in the future, I know I love you. (Tears start falling down Pacey�s face) I know that without any doubt. I don�t always understand you Pacey, and I don�t always agree with you, but at the end of it all I accept you for all that you are, and love you with all that I am, and it may not be a roof over your head, or bed to sleep in, but you do belong somewhere Pacey. You belong in my life, by my side, and in my heart.
Pacey: (crying softly he hugs Joey tightly) God Jo, I love you so much.
They hold each other for a long moment. Finally Pacey pulls away, and brushes the hair from Joey�s face before kissing her. They break the kiss, and Pacey leans his forehead against hers.
Joey: (quietly) Stay with me Pace.
Pacey: (pulling away) I can�t. It doesn�t solve anything. It�s just another place to stay, another place to be a burden.
Joey: No, it�s not Pacey. Let me take care of you. You don�t have to be alone. You don�t have to do everything yourself.
Pacey: Bessie would never...
Joey: (cuts him off) She will.
Pacey: Jo...
Joey: (cutting him off) Please Pacey, let me help you. You are always the strong one. You�re always the one doing for me, supporting me, and being there for me. Let me support you, be there for you.
Pacey: You already are that person Jo.
Joey: You�ll stay then?
Pacey: (firmly) No.
Joey: (questioning) What?
Pacey: Jo, I know you want to help, and I know I can�t do everything myself, but I have to do this. I have to figure out my life, and if I stay with you I won�t be doing that. I�ll just be delaying the inevitable.
Joey: (not following him) The inevitable?
Pacey: Figuring out who I am, what I want.
Joey: And you can�t do that with me?
Pacey: I can�t let you define me. That�s something I have to do on my own.
Joey: (whispering) Are we breaking up?
Pacey: (reaching out to her) No.
Joey: (moving away from him) It sounds like we are.
Pacey: Jo, that�s not what I mean.
Joey: What do you mean then?
Pacey: That I have to learn to stand on my own two feet. That I have to make my own life for both me, and for us?
Joey: (confused) For us?
Pacey: Yes for us. A year from now if I�m still this guy who has no idea what he wants, who relies on other people to support him, will you want to be with me? A guy who can only offer you the life you are trying so hard to leave?
Joey: Pacey, that�s not what�s going to happen. You have the potential to do so much.
Pacey: I know, but that�s all it is right now...potential. I have to make it more than that.
Joey: You will. I know you will.
Pacey: Knowing you believe that makes me believe it too.
Pacey wraps his arms around Joey in a tight hug.
Joey: What�s going to happen now Pacey?
Pacey: I have no idea, but I�m going to figure it out.
Joey: (pulling away) And us?
Pacey: I�m not going anywhere Jo. You can�t get rid of me that easily.
Joey laughs lightly.
Pacey: I am sorry about the party.
Joey: I�m still mad about that.
Pacey: (laughing lightly) I deserve that.
Joey: Well don�t be expecting a party next year. I�ve decided my party planning days are over. It always ends in a disaster.
Pacey: Just be there for the next one. That�s all I need.
Joey: I will be. I promise.
Joey leans forward, and they kiss.
Int. Potter B&B (Night of Day 3)
The party is over, and only Jen, Jack, Andie, Dawson, and Daniel remain. Jen and Dawson are in the living room picking up the scattered cups, and plates.
Jen: You know as much as this party can be filed under major disaster I actually had fun.
Dawson: You did?
Jen: Yeah I mean call me a sap if you want, but here we are at the end of it all together.
Dawson: Yeah, it�s nice.
Jen: And we all came together tonight (with emphasis on all) ALL of us for Pacey�s birthday. Last spring I never would have thought it was possible.
Dawson: Me neither, but I think we have all grown up.
Jen: Now that is scary.
Dawson laughs. A loud bang causes both Jen, and Dawson to look towards the door. Jack is in the doorway struggling with a couch.
Jack: I could really use some help with this guys.
Dawson rushes over to lift up the other end of the couch. They move the couch back into the room, and set it down. Jack collapses onto the couch.
Jack: How�d we get stuck with clean up anyways? I mean I vaguely remember being invited to this party not signing up for furniture moving.
Jen: (chuckling she sits next to Jack) A friend�s duty is never done.
Jack, and Dawson share in her laughter. Andie and Daniel come out of the kitchen.
Andie: What�s so funny?
Jen: I�m really not sure.
Andie: (looking at them strangely) Okay. Well the kitchen is finished. Everything is back and in place.
Daniel: And I fear it�s actually cleaner than it was before the party.
Andie: What does that mean?
Daniel: Nothing except I�m just guessing that typically the Potters don�t Windex the garbage can.
Jack snickers.
Andie: Garbage cans are incredible germ producing areas in the kitchen, and (she stops as everyone�s snickering becomes obvious) Oh go ahead and laugh it up.
Dawson: We are.
Andie sits on the couch, and Daniel sits on the arm of the couch beside her.
Andie: Do you think Pacey�s okay?
Jen: I hope so.
Andie: Me too.
Jack: Me three.
Dawson: Me four.
Everyone looks at Dawson in slight happy surprise.
Daniel: Me five. (Everyone turns to look at him curiously) What? So I don�t know the guy too well, but I don�t want anything to happen to him, and I didn�t want to be left out.
Everyone laughs.
Int. Doug�s Apartment (Morning Of Day 4)
Doug, and Sarah are sitting at the kitchen table eating breakfast. They are eating in silence. The door opens, and shuts. Doug stands up, and Pacey walks into the kitchen.
Doug: (surprised) Pacey.
Pacey: Hey.
There�s silence.
Sarah: Pacey, why don�t you sit down and have some breakfast?
Sarah stands up.
Pacey: I�m not really hungry, but thanks.
Doug: Coffee?
Pacey: That would be great.
Sarah walks over to the coffee pot, and pours Pacey a cup of coffee. She hands it to Pacey. Pacey takes a drink.
Sarah: I�m going to leave you two to talk.
Sarah leaves the room, and Doug watches Pacey as he fiddles with the cup in his hand.
Pacey: Look Doug, I just wanted to apologize for yesterday. I shouldn�t have said those things about you. I�m sorry.
Doug: It�s okay Pace.
Pacey: I know you care. I really do.
Doug: Where did you stay last night?
Pacey: True Love. I�m going to be staying there until I can find a more permanent place.
Doug: Is there anything I can say to get you to come back here?
Pacey: No, it�s not you Doug, and it�s not Sarah. It�s just me, and my life.
Doug: If you ever need anything Pace, you can come here. Anything at all.
Pacey: Thanks Doug, that means a lot to me.
Doug: You�re welcome little brother.
Pacey sets his cup on the table.
Pacey: I should get going. I have a lot to do today.
Doug: (nodding) Thanks for stopping by.
Pacey: (nods) See ya Doug.
Pacey walks out of the kitchen. When Doug hears the door shut he collapses back into the chair. Sarah walks into the kitchen.
Doug: You were right he won�t come back.
Sarah: (resting her hands on his shoulder) He�s as stubborn as you are once his mind is made up.
Doug: I think he�s going to be okay though. If nothing else the years he suffered at home made him a survivor.
Ext. Outdoor Caf� (Morning of Day 4)
Jen and Jack are sitting at one of the tables outside. They have bagels and coffee in front of them. Jack picks up his cup of coffee, and he takes a long drink.
Jack: Explain to me again why we are sitting outside when it�s freezing?
Jen: It�s not freezing. Don�t be a wuss.
Jack: Did you just call me a wuss?
Jen: I did. It�s not that cold.
Jack: So then I�m supposed to believe the pink color of your cheeks is the result of too much blush?
Jen: (glaring at Jack) If you want to go inside we can.
Jack: No it�s okay. I mean the view is better out here.
Jack looks across the street to the clothing store where Jude works with a smirk. Before Jen can retort, a waiter walks up to the table carrying a single red rose.
Waiter: Excuse me. (both Jack and Jen look up at him) This is for you.
The waiter hands Jen the rose.
Jen: (looking at the rose with curiosity) Thanks.
The waiter walks away.
Jack: (curiously) So who�s that from?
Jen: (shaking her head) I have no idea.
Jack: Maybe the waiter likes you.
Jen: I doubt it.
There is a card tied to the rose, and Jen tugs it off. She opens the card, and reads it silently.
Jack: Well...
Jen: (reading the card) You�re beautiful.
Jack: (raising an eyebrow) That�s all it says? (Jen nods) Who do you think it�s from?
Jen: I have no idea. I don�t recognize the writing.
Jen looks around, and inside the coffee shop. Her eyes pass over all the people inside not recognizing any of them. She looks the other way and across the street. Her eyes fall on the clothing store. Jack follows her gaze.
Jack: (with a smile) Looks like you have an admirer.
Jen: (uneasy) Yeah.
Jack: (sensing her uneasiness) What�s wrong?
Jen: (forcing a smile) Nothing. I just don�t get flowers every day.
Jack: At least now that Henry is out of the picture.
Jen: (looking away she speaks softly) Exactly.
Int. Capeside High (Afternoon Day 4)
Dawson is in the editing room working on his movie. He�s completely engrossed in his work, and doesn�t hear the sound of footsteps approaching. Tallulah appears in the doorway. She watches Dawson work with a small smile on her face. She knocks lightly on the doorframe startling Dawson. She laughs lightly as Dawson turns around.
Tallulah: Hey.
Dawson: God you scared me.
Tallulah: (walking into the room) Sorry.
Dawson: What are you doing here?
Tallulah: Rude much?
Dawson: No I just mean it�s Saturday. I didn�t expect to see you at school.
Tallulah: Well I was looking for you. (pointing to the screen) So this is your movie?
Dawson: Yeah (pausing) Go ahead and say it.
Tallulah: (innocently) Say what?
Dawson: Whatever sarcastic remark that is dying to roll off your tongue.
Tallulah: Sorry to disappoint, but I have none. (she watches the screen for a moment) That scene is framed really nice.
Dawson: Did I just hear you utter a compliment?
Tallulah: The lighting could be better. (Dawson laughs) Is that what you wanted to hear?
Dawson: It�s less frightening.
Tallulah: So how was the party last night?
Dawson: Interesting.
Tallulah: (questioning) Interesting?
Dawson: Maybe strange is a better word. How�d the reading go?
Tallulah: Good. I wish you had been there.
Dawson: I thought you weren�t heartbroken over that.
Tallulah: Not heartbroken, but it would have been nice to have a friend there.
Dawson: Friend?
Tallulah: Yeah friend, or (she stops) it would have been nice if you were there.
Dawson: Next time I promise.
Ext. True Love (Night of Day 4)
Pacey and Joey are walking towards True Love holding hands. Joey looks up at the sky.
Joey: I think it might snow soon.
Pacey: (looking up) I think you�re right.
Joey: Are you sure you�re going to be okay living on the boat?
Pacey: (wrapping his arm around Joey and pulling her closer) I�ll be fine. (he kisses the top of her head) Though it�s going to be strange sleeping here without you.
Joey: Maybe I�ll sneak away, and join you.
Pacey: (raises his eyebrow) I wouldn�t mind.
Joey: But will I be safe on your floating bachelor pad?
Pacey: You were safe for three months on it.
Joey: Things have changed.
Pacey: That they have Potter. That they have. (they walk in silence for a while) You can�t resist me.
Joey: In your dreams.
Pacey: If only you knew.
Joey shoves him with her hip just as they reach True Love. Pacey climbs aboard, and offers his hand to Joey. She grasps it, and Pacey helps her up onto the boat. He continues to hold her hand as they make their way down below. Pacey lets go of her hand to turn on the light.
Int. True Love (Night of Day 4)
Pacey: Welcome to my new home. There�s no TV, or food, or much else for entertainment, but...(his voice trails off)
Joey: (walking towards Pacey) We�ll just have to make our own entertainment.
Pacey: What did you have in mind Potter?
Joey: (wrapping her arms around his waist) I don�t know something to keep us warm.
Pacey: (raising his eyebrow) Are you trying to seduce me Miss Potter?
Joey: Is it working Mr. Witter?
Pacey nods his head slowly as Joey leans up and kisses him.
Fade out...