“Deadly Vacancy”

Episode #211

Fan-made Script

Written By

Ken Marvin Ortega

2

TEASER

INT. ALEC’S ROOM AT PHOENIX PRESBYTERIAN HOSPITAL –

DAY

Pale hands appear to be in a bed and a body of a man

in his 40s lay there unconscious. Tubes are

connected on his body and the life support beeps on

his every breathing. Eight days have passed and

still, this man, ALEC RYBAK, is in comatose state.

MADS RYBAK, his daughter, is sitting on a chair

beside her father. She’s crying as she looks at her

almost dying father. Her brother, THAYER RYBAK, is

standing, caressing her back, supporting her with

all his might.

MADS

Did they catch who did this to

dad?

THAYER

No. Dan told me that the rooftop

was empty when they checked it.

They think it is suicide...

His attention shifts to SUTTON MERCER, who is

standing next to her younger sister, LAUREL MERCER.

They are huddled in a corner and seem bugged by the

situation.

THAYER (CONT’D)

They asked the personnel of the

club, no one saw anyone going to

the rooftop. Except for Alec...

MADS

Why would dad do this?

Sutton looks at Laurel as the latter heave a sigh

and sits down on a nearest chair.

LAUREL

(whispers)

Where’s Ethan?

3

SUTTON

Went to check Emma. I haven’t seen

her since last night.

Upon hearing the word ‘Emma,’ Thayer glares at

Sutton. Sutton notices it and looks away as she is

pretty disturbed. She seems to be missing something.

MADS

Thayer, what’s going to happen

now? Dad’s in coma and...

THAYER

I’m here, Mads. I’m never going to

leave you.

Sutton grabs Laurel’s arm.

SUTTON

(whispers)

We should head out.

Laurel nods and follows Sutton out of the door.

INT. HALLWAY – NEARLY CONTINUOUS

...Sutton walks in a corner and waits for Laurel to

approach. She crosses her arms and bits her lower

lip. She’s deep in thought.

SUTTON (CONT’D)

Something’s wrong.

LAUREL

Well, everything you see is

entirely wrong in a sense.

SUTTON

I don’t think Alec committed

suicide.

LAUREL

Yeah... Wait, what? Like he just

slipped and fell from that glass

ceiling?

4

Sutton rolls her eyes.

SUTTON

Think critically, Laurel. Being

perky doesn’t fit the moment.

Laurel nods and arches an eyebrow, waiting for

Sutton to explain.

SUTTON (CONT’D)

All I want to say is... Alec’s

priority list doesn’t include

committing suicide. He’s one

pulling the strings here,

preventing me and Emma from

telling our secret. Do you think

he would give up just like that...

now that two lives have been

spared?

LAUREL

Are you telling me... someone

tried to kill Alec?

Sutton nods affirmatively.

SUTTON

That’s what I’ve been thinking for

now...

LAUREL

Do you think it’s Rebecca?

Sutton shakes her head. But she seems to be giving

it a thought.

SUTTON

She’s a prime suspect. Killing

Alec is a stupid thing to do,

adding to the fact that she’s his

wife.

5

LAUREL

Maybe, she doesn’t care anymore.

I’m sorry but we all know how

crazy your mom is...

Sutton looks off, hesitating.

SUTTON

Even if that’s the case, Rebecca

is a master of plans. She doesn’t

want her hands get dirty and be

discovered. Rebecca spent years to

plan a perfect revenge. I don’t

think pushing someone off a

ceiling, during a charity gala,

counts as one.

LAUREL

Makes sense. The idea of someone

trying to kill him is somehow...

impossible.

SUTTON

That has been crossing my mind

since last night. It just proves

that we can’t trust anyone...

LAUREL

Any idea on who could have done

this?

Sutton looks at Alec’s room as the door opens.

Thayer goes out and gazes at both Sutton and Laurel.

Sutton stares back as she speaks.

SUTTON

It could be anyone, Laurel.

SLAM TO BLACK.

END OF TEASER

6

ACT ONE

INT. MERCER’S CABIN – SAME DAY

Sutton’s identical twin, EMMA BECKER, is sitting by

the couch as she stares by the cabin’s window. TED

MERCER, 40s, strides in handling a cup of coffee to

Emma which she gladly accepts.

They both look so stressed out and shocked after the

bizarre happenings last night.

EMMA

Thanks for the coffee, dad.

TED

(nods)

Are you okay, honey?

EMMA

I don’t know. Last night makes me

want to think about things.

TED

Like what?

EMMA

Like... what if I never came up

here? I bet things are pretty

normal back then. Sutton living up

her glamorous life. No Rebecca to

destroy your family.

TED

Emma, honey, things are not normal

even way back then. As long as

secrets and lies continue to eat

us up, we can’t have a normal

life.

(then)

It is my entire fault that all of

this went hot-handled. I should’ve

admitted everything and now it

costs my marriage and my

children...

7

EMMA

You will not lose us, dad. Me,

Sutton and Laurel. I know mom

still cares for you. It’s a matter

of time before we can fix this

up...

Ted sighs and Emma senses his distress.

TED

If only I can set things back and

correct it...

Emma places the cup at the nearest table and holds

her father’s hands.

EMMA

It’s not too late, dad. Tell

Kristin everything...

TED

It’s not easy, Emma.

Emma leans back. She’s somehow disturbed.

EMMA

Why?

TED

I just can’t tell you, Emma.

Everything in the past... they are

better kept forgotten.

EMMA

Why won’t you tell us about

everything?

A BANG catches their attention as the door closes

and Sutton and Laurel come into view.

SUTTON

Are we interrupting something?

Emma stands up. She wipes her hands on her pyjamas

and shakes her head.

8

EMMA

No. Dad and I are talking about

things. So what’s up?

SUTTON

Aside from the police ruling

Alec’s case as suicide... nothing

much.

Ted stand up, too, looking dumbfounded.

TED

Suicide?

SUTTON

Thayer told us Dan found the

rooftop empty. No evidence

whatsoever. It looks like Alec let

himself fall down the ceiling

window...

Emma bit her lower lip and sway a bit.

EMMA

Suicide at Theresa’s charity gala?

Seems odd in my opinion.

LAUREL

Right. If this is attempted

murder, the suspect did clean in

his job.

EMMA

Do we have suspects?

SUTTON

So we’re back to being Sherlock

Holmes again?

EMMA

We don’t have any choice. This

incident points right down to us,

Sutton. All the lies and the

secrets start to haunt us one by

one. If we don’t do anything,

9

danger is the closest thing we can

have.

SUTTON

Okay, fine. We need to find out

who did this. This links back to

Derek and Theresa’s killer. But

first and for most, we must not

tell Kristin... at least, not yet.

TED

Why, Sutton? Kristin needs to know

about the two of you.

SUTTON

I’m sorry to spoil the fun in here

but dad, it’s still dangerous. And

besides, her reaction might add to

our worries.

Ted curses silently as he turns around. He holds a

hand on his head, as if he’s having a migraine.

TED

(turns back)

Okay, but she needs to find out

sooner or later.

SUTTON

Mom will.

TED

So, I got to get going. I need to

talk to Kristin.

Laurel raises a hand.

LAUREL

I’m coming with you, dad.

Sutton nods. Ted kisses both the twins on their

foreheads.

TED

See you, later.

10

Emma nods as Sutton looks away. Ted waves and so do

Laurel as they go out of the door. Seconds after the

door closes, Sutton focuses her attention back to

her twin sister.

SUTTON

So... are you going back to the

house?

EMMA

I thought...

SUTTON

I know you want to stand up to

yourself but this time... Emma,

I’m asking for a favour.

Emma nods, urging Sutton to continue.

SUTTON

We still need to switch, Emma.

Having you at the house makes me

feel safe for our parents... and

you can handle family stuff than

I.

EMMA

Sutton, we both can.

Emma smiles and Sutton does, too.

SUTTON

You really are the good twin,

aren’t you?

Emma laughs.

EMMA

Everyone is good on their own way.

You are good, Sutton. You just

don’t realize it.

Sutton smiles as she spreads her arms.

SUTTON

C’mon. Give me some sisterly love.

11

Emma smiles and lets herself around her twin

sister’s embrace.

INT. DAN’S OFFICE AT SCOTTSDALE POLICE STATION – DAY

DAN WHITEHORSE, 30s, picks up a file about Derek

Rogers and throws it in the desk in frustration. The

case is getting downhill and he can’t find the

culprit; much less REBECCA SEWELL, 40s.

ETHAN WHITEHORSE knocks on the door and Dan looks

non-expectantly. He leans on his chair and glares at

his younger brother.

ETHAN

Can I come in?

DAN

Sure. What do you want?

ETHAN

Any lead about Rebecca?

DAN

Nothing. She disappeared without a

trace.

Ethan nods.

ETHAN

So, how are you?

DAN

I can’t say that I’m good. This

case has been bugging me for days.

Ethan looks at the piles of files on his desk.

ETHAN

Want any help?

Dan waves off a hand, seemingly brushing Ethan off.

12

DAN

I don’t think you can help, Ethan.

I thought you’re going to Emma or

Sutton... whoever of them.

ETHAN

(glares)

I don’t want to talk about them

with you, Dan. I’m here for you.

You haven’t been sleeping for days

now. You’re pushing yourself too

hard.

DAN

You’re not the one who lost his

fiancée!

Ethan flinches back, surprised at his brother’s lash

out.

ETHAN

I’m sorry.

DAN

I can’t talk to you for a while,

Ethan. Please, leave my office for

now.

Ethan utters nothing. He just walks out of the

office. Dan, on the other hand, closes his eyes and

breathes deeply to compose himself.

He opens his eyes and sees something in the corner

of his eyes. He picks up a piece of photo and stares

grudgingly at it. Its Rebecca Sewell’s...

EXT. SCOTTSDALE POLICE STATION – DAY

Ethan walks out of the police station and he’s deep

in thought. He curses as he kicks an imaginary rock

by the road.

He hears a familiar voice calling his name. He turns

and is surprised to see CHAR CHAMBERLIN in front of

him.

13

ETHAN

Char?

CHAR

Hi.

ETHAN

What are you doing here? I... When

did you come back?

CHAR

Just this morning... I kept on

hearing horrible things happening

back here so I decided to return

to Scottsdale with or without my

dad’s permission.

Char senses something wrong and Ethan knows she

picks it up.

CHAR (CONT’D)

About Theresa... Oh God, I’m sorry

for your loss.

She proceeds to hug Ethan. He hugs back, though he’s

perplexed. Char pulls away and Ethan remains silent.

CHAR

I contacted Mads, Laurel and

Sutton but they don’t answer their

phones. Thayer and you either. So

I decided to go to Dan and ask

about...

Char’s lips quiver as she frowns.

ETHAN

Derek Rogers?

Char looks away as if hurt.

ETHAN

My brother’s not in a good mood

today. Alec’s situation makes

matters worse.

14

CHAR

Alec? What happened to him?

ETHAN

He had an accident at Theresa’s

charity gala. Police ruled it as

attempted suicide. He’s is coma

now.

CHAR

(gasps)

Oh my God. Poor Mads. I need to be

there now.

ETHAN

I can give you Alec’s room number

at Phoenix Presbyterian Hospital.

CHAR

Thank you.

Char smiles sweetly as we fade to...

EXT. PHOENIX PRESBYTERIAN HOSPITAL – DAY

Sutton and Emma sit at Sutton’s car, which is parked

right in front of the hospital. Sutton is relaxed

while Emma is looking so uneasy.

EMMA

I need to get inside, Sutton.

SUTTON

No, Emma. It’s inconvenient. I

think the last thing Mads would

like to do is see us. And besides

Thayer is inside...

EMMA

So you knew?

Sutton rolls her eyes. It’s so obvious.

15

SUTTON

Duh. Twin-sense, remember?

EMMA

Fine. Thayer and I broke up.

SUTTON

It’s about time. Is it because of

Ethan?

Emma nods and wraps her arms around her body.

EMMA

Thayer forced me to make a choice.

I still love Ethan but he doesn’t

want me back.

SUTTON

Well, it’s a natural reaction.

Since Theresa’s death, Dan wanted

his family to avoid us. He’s just

worried for his brother.

EMMA

But what will I do? This is so

messed up!

Sutton doesn’t respond. She looks back at the

entrance to the hospital and her eyes widen when she

sees something or someone.

SUTTON

Char?

Emma looks at her sister.

EMMA

What?

Sutton points at Char’s direction.

SUTTON

Char’s back to town.

Emma reacts quickly. She unlatched the passenger

seat’s door lock and opens it.

16

SUTTON

Hey, where are you going?

EMMA

I need to follow her.

SUTTON

Wait. What—

Emma locks the door and ignores her sister for a

bit. She needs to do something now that Char’s back

to town. Now, there two people who doesn’t know

about the twins. Emma goes past the sliding door and

runs fast to keep up with Char. Once she’s near...

EMMA

Char.

Char turns around and gasps when she sees ‘Sutton.’

CHAR

Sutton! You don’t know how much

I’m glad to see you again!

She proceeds to hug her and then let go.

CHAR (CONT’D)

Sutton, I’m so sorry. I should’ve

stayed and be here for you. I

didn’t know what you all went

through when I was gone.

EMMA

Char, you don’t have anything to

do with this. It just happened. It

is better if you’ve been away.

It’s too dangerous in here.

CHAR

Dangerous? Tell me what’s

happening.

EMMA

You know that I’ve been searching

for my birthmother, right?

17

Char nods.

EMMA (CONT’D)

And you know that Alec is somehow

suspiciously involved in this. And

Rebecca...

CHAR

What about Aunt Annie?

Emma refuses to continue. She shakes her head then

proceeds.

EMMA

She has a past with our parents

and they are hiding more secrets

from us. Mads, Thayer, Laurel and

Ethan knew about this. And this

got Derek and Theresa killed...

CHAR

You’re scaring me, Sutton.

EMMA

I know. I’m scared, too. But I

want to find out the truth and end

this once and for all.

INT. ALEC’S HOSPITAL ROOM – DAY

Char looks at Alec’s frail body. He isn’t like Mads’

father that she knows. Domineering, well-mannered

yet secretive. He looks so vulnerable. She clings to

Mads and feels her best friend settle weakly on her

embrace.

MADS

I’m glad you’re back, Char.

CHAR

Me, too.

Char looks around and notices that someone’s not

around.

18

CHAR (CONT’D)

Where’s Thayer?

MADS

Went out to buy some stuff.

CHAR

Okay. So... how did this happen?

Mads stares at her father and frowns.

MADS

After Derek’s murder, things went

out of control. Ethan was accused

of the murder but immediately went

discharged. Dad married Rebecca,

and got arrested for the murder.

Theresa was murdered also and...

Police speculated he committed

suicide.

CHAR

And the guy you’ve been mauling me

about?

Mads eyes widen as she recalls the guy she falls in

love with.

MADS

Jordan? He was arrested for

killing his brother. He was sent

back to L.A.

CHAR

It must be tough.

Mads nods.

MADS

I don’t know what to do.

Everything I care for ends up

leaving me. Mom. Eduardo. Ryan.

Jordan. And now... Dad.

19

CHAR

I don’t think your father is ready

to give you up yet. The way he

controls you, I really doubt it.

MADS

I hope that’s true. I need answers

and he can only answer that.

CHAR

I’m all confused here and... there

are things you aren’t telling me.

You and Sutton included. But one

day, I’ll find it out.

Mads doesn’t reply. She just stares at her father.

Sooner or later, Char will find out.

SLAM TO BLACK.

END OF ACT ONE

20

ACT TWO

INT. MERCER HOUSE – NOON

Ted enters the house and sees KRISTIN MERCER, 40s,

busy wiping the kitchen sinks. Laurel follows in.

When she sees him, she scowls slightly. There are

faint black circle around her eyes and looks like

she hasn’t slept for a while. She folds the towel

and places it nearby.

Laurel approaches her mother and kisses her on the

cheek. Then, she goes upstairs. Kristin focuses back

on Ted.

KRISTIN

Ted, what are you doing here?

TED

I wanted to talk to you.

KRISTIN

Is it about what you’re about to

say last night?

Ted shakes his head and exhales loudly.

TED

It’s about Sutton.

KRISTIN

What about Sutton? Is she alright?

TED

She’s fine. I want to tell you

everything about her. About where

she came from.

Kristin looks confusedly at him. Ted breathes in.

TED

Sutton is my biological daughter.

Kristin’s eyes widen as she flinches.

21

KRISTIN

Wha-what are you talking about?

How did this happen?

TED

When Rebecca and I had an affair,

I got her pregnant with Sutton.

Rebecca can’t take care of the

baby so she asked Alec to have

Sutton for adoption. Eventually, I

got her not knowing that she’s my

real daughter.

Kristin’s eyes begin to fill with tears. Ted sees

her reaction.

TED (CONT’D)

I’m sorry—

Kristin holds a hand up.

KRISTIN

Stop saying sorry, Ted. Every word

you say just hurt me like a stab

in the heart. All the lies, the

secrets you keep... So you kept

Sutton because we can’t have a

child? Even if it’s that the case,

it’s still a child from your

mistress!

Meanwhile, Laurel peeks in despair. Tears are

falling from her eyes also.

KRISTIN (CONT’D)

Ted, I can’t believe how disloyal

you are. I felt like I wasted

sixteen years being married to

you!

TED

Kris—

KRISTIN

Please leave, Ted. You gave me

another reason to cut my ties with

22

you. This betrayal is something I

can’t forgive.

Ted starts to approach her but she takes a step

backward and turns away.

KRISTIN

You know the way out.

Laurel rushes downstairs and meets Kristin halfway.

Kristin passes by her and goes straight to her room.

Laurel stairs back at her father, walking defeated

out of the door.

INT. HALLWAY IN FRONT OF ALEC’S HOSPITAL ROOM – NOON

Emma waits outside Alec’s room. She sees Thayer

across the hallway, with a paper bag on his hand.

Emma stands up and faces him.

THAYER

(glares)

What are you doing here?

EMMA

Accompanying Char. She came back.

Thayer nods.

THAYER

I should get inside.

EMMA

Thay—

THAYER

We have nothing to talk about

Emma. You made it pretty clear.

We’re over.

Thayer opens the door to Alec’s room and goes in

fluidly. Emma stands dumbfounded, facing the door

with wide eyes.

23

INT. KRISTIN’S BEDROOM – NOON

Laurel peeks inside her mother’s room. Kristin IS

sitting at the edge of the bed, crying as she covers

her face with her hands. Laurel looks uneasy but she

goes in anyway.

LAUREL

Mom?

Kristin stares at her with red eyes and immediately,

she wipes her tears-filled cheeks. She stands up

right after.

KRISTIN

Laurel, do you need anything?

LAUREL

I-I just want to talk about

Sutton.

KRISTIN

Honey, I don’t think—

LAUREL

I just want you to know that

Sutton still considers you as her

mother. Whatever Rebecca does, you

are still the one who gave life

and happiness to her.

KRISTIN

Did she tell you that?

Laurel shakes her head.

LAUREL

No, but after all that has

happened, Sutton realized that she

can’t have a perfect family with

Rebecca. Her family is here with

us... you, me, dad and Sutton.

Kristin smiles weakly and approaches to give Laurel

a hug.

24

KRISTIN

My baby. I’m so blessed that I

have a daughter like you. You

don’t give up getting this family

back together. I know sometimes I

lack at showing how much I love

you but you should know... you’re

my daughter and I love you and

Sutton equally.

LAUREL

I know, mom. I know I’ve been an

envious sister but now I realized

how much you love me, and Sutton

included.

KRISTIN

Isn’t it amazeballs?

Laurel laughs hard.

LAUREL

Yes, mom. It’s amazeballs.

INT. CABIN – AFTERNOON

Ethan sits beside the table. Sutton is walking back

and forth and looks so worried. Ethan notices it.

ETHAN

Okay Sutton, stop walking like a

pendulum.

SUTTON

I’m thinking about how to handle

the situation.

ETHAN

This Alec suicide attempt?

SUTTON

No, the Kristin and Char thing.

You know they are the only one who

25

doesn’t know that Emma exists and

we kept switching for months now.

Ethan shrugs.

ETHAN

You should consider Emma’s opinion

in this. You’re twins. You should

be handling this problem together.

SUTTON

Ask her.

ETHAN

What?

SUTTON

Nothing.

Sutton sits in a nearby chair comfortably.

SUTTON (CONT’D)

So, what’s the deal with you and

Emma? Don’t you know that my poor

twin sister broke up with Thayer

already?

ETHAN

I know.

SUTTON

Then, what are you doing here? You

should be chasing her!

ETHAN

Sutton, I’m not a dog salivating

for a girl. As much as I love

Emma, I have a family to

consider...

SUTTON

And here I thought you’re a man in

a white horse... kind of

redundant. But well, love should

defy everything.

26

ETHAN

(glares)

Sutton.

SUTTON

Okay, okay. But can’t you see the

scenario in here. Your brother is

ready to disown you. What he needs

what the sign from up above,

whatsoever. I mean... duh?

ETHAN

Dan is the only family I have. He

just lost the love of his life. I

can’t just leave him alone. I’m

his brother.

Sutton lifts a hand and checks her well-manicured

fingers.

SUTTON

What are you doing here anyway? I

thought Dan doesn’t want you near

the Mercers.

ETHAN

I need your help.

SUTTON

Is this about Rebecca?

Ethan nods as he stares by the table.

ETHAN

We need to know where she’s

hiding. The police can’t find her.

We need to do something.

SUTTON

Here we are again. Taking matters

on our own hands. I want to help

you so bad Ethan, but I don’t know

where she is. Rebecca is as sneaky

as a rat.

27

ETHAN

Is there any way we can lure her

out?

Sutton leans back and sinks into a deep thought.

Seconds after, she looks at Ethan.

SUTTON

I know who her weakness is. But

thinking about it is just... Eew.

EXT. PHOENIX PRESBYTERIAN HOSPITAL - AFTERNOON

Char walks out of the hospital with Emma. Emma is

deep in thought. Someone’s voice breaks into her

thoughts.

CHAR

Sutton?

EMMA

What?

CHAR

I asked if it’s okay leaving Mads

there. She needs us.

EMMA

We can go back later. She needs a

moment with her father and Thayer.

Char looks at her knowingly.

CHAR

I can see a cloud right above your

head. What’s Miss Mercer thinking?

EMMA

Everything. The murders and our

parents’ secrets.

Char stops walking and stands in front of the car

park.

28

CHAR

You know, Sutton. I enjoyed living

in Florida. Not that it was

luxurious, but at least I get to

ignore my worries. No lies, no

secrets. I can be who I want to

be. Mom wasn’t there to reprimand

me and control me like a robot,

and dad supports me all the way.

EMMA

Then why did you come back?

CHAR

(snorts)

Huh, everything’s right in the

world when your friends are close

to you. Our parents might be some

sort of nut-cracks but with you

here with me, I can’t ask anything

for more.

EMMA

When did you get so sentimental,

Char?

Char smiles weakly which is replaced by a frown

right after.

CHAR

After knowing that Derek’s dead, I

refused to be that naïve girl

again. I may not be as

intellectual and sissy as you but

I don’t want to be left behind.

I’m tired of the lies and deceit.

Emma hesitates for a moment but gives in.

EMMA

Derek has been working with Alec

way back then.

CHAR

(blinks)

Huh?

29

EMMA

Alec has been spying on me and he

used Derek so he can get close to

me.

CHAR

Are you saying that Derek used me

so he can spy on you?

EMMA

(nods)

But that’s not the whole story. I

think Derek really fell in love

with you. Derek’s erratic

behaviour was because of Alec.

CHAR

That’s why he broke up with me

without knowing the real reason.

(then)

Wait, how does this involve you?

EMMA

I’ve been trying to find my

birthmother. Alec tried to keep it

a secret but eventually, it turns

out that Rebecca is my mother.

CHAR

(gasps)

Aunt Annie? Does that mean—?

Emma smiles then nods.

EMMA

Yes, Char. We’re cousins.

CHAR

(squeals)

OH. MY. GOD.

She then hugs Emma tightly. Emma hugs back but

rather unwillingly. After a moment, Char pulls away.

30

CHAR

I can’t believe this!

EMMA

Me, too. But calm down, Char.

CHAR

And who’s your father?

EMMA

Let’s go back to the cabin and

I’ll tell you everything.

Char immediately opens her bag and fishes out her

cell phone.

CHAR

Wait, I need to tell dad.

EMMA

Your dad’s in here?

CHAR

(nods)

He’s here with me.

INT. CHAMBERLIN HOUSE - AFTERNOON

A man in his early 40s walks inside the empty

Chamberlin house. He is RICHARD CHAMBERLIN, a blonde

man of pure masculinity. A phone rings so he places

his large leather bag down and fishes the gadget out

of his pocket. He saw that Char was calling.

RICHARD

Hey, sweetie.

CHAR

(on the other line)

Dad, I’m going with Sutton to the

cabin.

Richard frowns upon hearing Sutton’s name. He isn’t

fond of his daughter’s friend.

31

RICHARD

Okay, just come home early, okay?

CHAR

Sure, I’ll call you right away.

RICHARD

Bye, sweetie.

Richard ends the call. He dials another number and

placed his cell phone next to his right ear. He

waits for it to ring. After three rings, the person

on the other line picks up.

RICHARD

It’s me Richard. We’re here in

Phoenix now.

SLAM TO BLACK.

END OF ACT TWO

32

ACT THREE

INT. UNKNOWN CABIN - NOON

REBECCA SEWELL is sitting by the couch in a secluded

house in an unknown part of Scottsdale. She’s busy

fiddling on her laptop. She clicks a file and a

picture of Ted flashes to the screen. She

passionately touches the image of her loved one.

REBECCA

We’ll be a complete family soon,

Ted. You, me and the twins.

She stands up and walks by the window. She stares at

the not-so-subtle scenery outside.

REBECCA

But first I need to accomplish

something.

She turns around and faced a person wearing a black

hood. It is standing firmly there, waiting for

Rebecca to give an order.

REBECCA

Dear, you need to check up on

Thayer Rybak. Find out what he’s

hiding.

The hooded person nods and strides out of the house.

Rebecca stares out of the window again and smiles

wickedly.

REBECCA

We’ll meet again, my daughters...

soon.

It closes in as we...

INT. CABIN – AFTERNOON

Emma and Char walks in the cabin. Laurel and Ethan

are waiting inside. Emma sighs and thanks that

33

Sutton isn’t present or their cover would blow.

Laurel shrieks and runs towards Char, hugging her in

the process.

LAUREL

Oh my God, you’re really back! We

miss you!

CHAR

(laughs)

And I’m planning to stay for a

long time.

(pulls away)

So, are you going to tell me

what’s going on?

Emma sighs. She opens her mouth and the scenes

shifts to the three of them telling Char about

everything, except for the twins’ existence. Emma

tells Char about “her” quest on finding her

birthmother and Alec’s involvement with keeping the

identity of the mother hidden and the events that

occur soon after.

CHAR

(leans on chair)

Too much has happened when I was

far away.

Laurel nods. Emma looks at Ethan but he refuses to

meet her eyes.

CHAR

So how does my aunt fit in this?

EMMA

She might have murdered Theresa,

and possibly Derek.

CHAR

(eyes widen)

Aunt Annie won’t do that!

ETHAN

How can you be so sure?

34

Char doesn’t answer. She looks away uneasy.

CHAR

Maybe, she didn’t do it...

Ethan arches his eyebrows.

ETHAN

She gave up Sutton for adoption.

She pretty much wanted to destroy

Ted and Kristin’s relationship. Do

you think she won’t commit a crime

such as murder?

LAUREL

And she even used Jordan to help

gain my trust. I hate it how she

forced her stepson to seduce me

when in fact, he likes Mads.

CHAR

Poor Jordan. As far as what Mads

have been telling me, the guy was

in L.A. now.

EMMA

What happened?

CHAR

He was convicted for murdering his

brother.

LAUREL

Rebecca. She did this. She used

that to blackmail Jordan on doing

what she wants.

CHAR

Now, Mads is torn between staying

here and going after Jordan.

ETHAN

We need to stop Rebecca once and

for all. The more she stays out

there, the more it’s dangerous.

35

EMMA

So what are we going to do?

The four exchange glances, thinking of what plan is

to be carried out.

EXT. RYBAK RESIDENCE – NOON

The Rybak house is filled with silence. Wind is

whistling. A car is parked in front of the gate. Two

figures walks through the front door.

INT. RYBAK RESIDENCE – NEARLY CONTINUOUS

Mads and Thayer are the one who walks inside the

house. They are holding packing bag and looks like

their transferring back to their old house.

Mads glances around and sighed. The house feels

empty.

MADS

I hate this house.

THAYER

Why?

MADS

It’s because bad things happen in

this house.

(removes a cloth covering a couch

and sits)

You and mom went away. Secrets

began to fill this house.

THAYER

Don’t blame the house. Blame those

who live in it.

They hear footsteps approaching their direction.

Mads gasps as she sees someone familiar. CAROLINE

LUNA (formerly RYBAK), 40s, a woman with raven hair

curled down to her shoulder and has that Latina look

in her, walks in.

36

CAROLINE

And blame who? Alec?

MADS THAYER

Mom? Caroline?

Caroline approaches them and wraps them both around

her arms. Mads is surprised and delightful. Thayer

looks so furious.

CAROLINE

(whispers)

My children...

Thayer pulls away. Caroline looks shocked.

THAYER

Why are you here?

CAROLINE

I need to be here for my children.

Mads clings to her mother.

MADS

I miss you.

CAROLINE

I miss you, too, darling. I’m so

sorry for leaving you.

THAYER

And you think you can go back just

like that?

Mads looks at Thayer.

MADS

Thayer—

Thayer raises a hand and points at Caroline with

eyes still fixed on Mads.

37

THAYER

She left us, Mads. How can you

forgive her so easily?

MADS

It’s in the past, Thayer.

(looks at her mother)

Are you staying for good?

CAROLINE

I hope so. I’m here to set things

right.

Moment. Mads reluctantly pulls away from her mother.

Thayer crosses his arms and stares at his mother.

THAYER

I need to know something from you.

CAROLINE

What’s that, honey?

THAYER

Is Graham my real father?

CAROLINE

(nods)

So you knew.

THAYER

And that fact that you hid this

for nineteen years... it’s

unforgivable. I used to think that

I’m a loser for having a father

like Alec but I thought wrong, I’m

not his son. How can you hide this

from me? We kept in touch in L.A.

but you never mentioned it to

me...

CAROLINE

Alec told me to keep it a secret.

38

THAYER

(snorts)

Of course, I’m expecting this...

Just like how he kept hidden the

identity of Sutton’s birthmother.

CAROLINE

(nods)

Sutton and Emma. Fate has been so

cruel to them.

Mads flinches.

MADS

You knew about the twins?

CAROLINE

Yes, darling. It’s a secret I

can’t keep as long as I stay here

and one of the reasons why I ran

away.

MADS

(shakes head)

I don’t understand.

Caroline walks towards the living room.

CAROLINE

I guess we need to talk about it.

INT. SCOTTSDALE POLICE STATION – NOON

Emma walks inside Scottsdale Police Station along

with Ethan, Char and Laurel. There are too many

people inside the station. It looks like a busy day.

EXT. SCOTTSDALE POLICE STATION – NEARLY CONTINUOUS

Sutton is hiding in her car outside, looking out for

what was happening. She curls a lock of her hair.

Suddenly, she sees a suspicious hooded figure

walking out of the station. She gets curious and

39

walks out of the car. She follows the mysterious man

as it fades out...

INT. SCOTTSDALE POLICE STATION – NOON

Emma wanders inside, with Ethan, Laurel and Char

behind her. She bumps to Detective Larkin, a bald-

headed officer.

DETECTIVE LARKIN

Sutton Mercer!

EMMA

Hi. Is there any chance that

Officer Dan Whitehorse is here?

Detective Larkin points at Dan’s office.

DETECTIVE LARKIN

See for yourself.

The rude detective walks away.

CHAR

How rude.

ETHAN

Sutton is a little problem among

police officers here in

Scottsdale.

They walk towards the office but Emma stops by an

opened door.

EMMA

Wait—

The other three stop. Emma peeks inside and sees a

large whiteboard in the middle of the room. She goes

inside. Ethan, Laurel and Char soon follow.

Emma approaches the board and is surprised to what

she sees there. Pictures are taped on the walls.

Herself. Sutton. Rebecca. Ethan. Laurel. Jordan.

Char. Laurel. Mads. Alec. Ted. Kristin. Nisha.

40

Eduardo. Phyllis. Justin. Caroline. Derek. Theresa.

A woman Emma identified as Mads and Thayer’s mother.

And a man who is Char’s father.

Emma immediately takes her photo and erases her name

on the board. She places the picture on her pocket

and hides it from Char. This is not the time for her

to know.

CHAR

Why are our pictures here?

LAUREL

(whispers)

We’re being investigated.

CHAR

(touches the picture of her father)

Even my dad is here.

ETHAN

(peeks in)

That’s your dad?

LAUREL

It’s weird that those who are long

gone are in here.

EMMA

They’ve been a part of our lives.

Police naturally considers them as

clues.

LAUREL

So basically, I get to be friends

with someone. I’ll expect her

picture here sooner.

Suddenly, the door bangs open as someone goes in.

Ethan, Laurel, Char and Emma are alerted and stares

at the figure by the door.

41

EXT. SOMEWHERE NEAR AZTEC PARK – NEARLY CONTINUOUS

Sutton follows the hooded person. She keeps her

distance so the mysterious figure can’t see her. She

stops by a corner and peeks to see the person slid

inside a building that looks like an apartment.

Seconds after, she goes in and sees the hooded

person goes inside a room. Hiding in a safe spot,

she waits until the person goes out. After knowing

that the figure is not coming back for some time,

she approached the front door, namely, Apartment

Room 256, and is surprised to see the latch open.

She goes in. She sniffs at the dusty atmosphere.

Being a few feet inside, she looks around.

SUTTON

(whispers)

Maybe, I’m just wrong.

Suddenly, she hears the front door close! She turns

around and gasps as she’s locked inside.

SUTTON

Let me out!

INT. SCOTTSDALE POLICE STATION – CONTINUOUSLY

Dan is the man by the door. He looks furiously at

the four.

DAN

What are you doing here?

ETHAN

No-nothing. We got curious and—

DAN

(holds the door)

Please get out. This is a private

room and no one but police

officers and detectives should get

in.

42

The four immediately walk out of the room. Emma

mutters a ‘sorry’.

DAN

(CONT’D)

Ethan?

ETHAN

(turns around)

Yes?

DAN

We’ll talk later.

Ethan nods and soon, they are gone. Dan sighs and

approaches the board. Dan notices that one picture

is missing. He realizes its Emma’s...

SLAM TO BLACK.

END OF ACT THREE

43

ACT FOUR

EXT. SCOTTSDALE POLICE STATION - NOON

Emma, Ethan, Char and Laurel are walking the dry

road outside Scottsdale Police Station. Emma looks

disturbed and so do Ethan and Laurel. Char looks so

confused.

CHAR

(stops walking)

So we’re all in the suspect list

now?

EMMA

(turns)

I think so.

CHAR

I’m not even here when Derek and

Theresa were murdered!

LAUREL

Well, we still don’t know who the

killer is so that leaves Dan to

involve those people in this case.

EMMA

But what about those who aren’t

involved in this? Nisha. Justin.

Eduardo. Even that woman named

Caroline.

ETHAN

Sutton, they’re connected to us.

Nisha has been our classmate.

Justin is Laurel’s ex-boyfriend.

Eduardo and Mads were once

together. Caroline... if you’ve

forgotten, is Mads and Thayer’s

mother.

CHAR

And my father?

44

LAUREL

Yours also. All of this is in our

parents’ past. They are so

involved in this.

EMMA

(shakes her head)

This is so messed up. We’re

complicating things. I don’t know

if I can handle this anymore.

ETHAN

(touches her arm)

Don’t worry. You’re not alone.

Emma’s eyes widens as she feel an unexplainable

spark, and breaks away from Ethan’s hand. She looks

away and focuses her eyes on Char and Laurel.

Her phone suddenly rings and takes it out of her

bag. The screen shows Sutton’s name. She picks it

up.

EMMA

Hello?

SUTTON

Emma!

INT. APARTMENT ROOM 256 – NEARLY CONTINUOUS

Sutton is walking back and forth, looking around and

winces when she finds out that the room doesn’t have

windows.

SUTTON

You got to help me out. I’m stuck

here inside an apartment.

EXT. SCOTTSDALE POLICE STATION – NEARLY CONTINUOUS

Emma’s eyes bulge. Laurel, Ethan and Char begin to

get curious with the phone call.

45

EMMA

What? Where are you?

INT. APARTMENT ROOM 256 – NEARLY CONTINUOUS

Sutton walks around, then eventually approaches the

front door and tries to open the knob. It doesn’t

budge.

SUTTON

Somewhere near Aztec Park. Room

256. You need to hurry!

EXT. SCOTTSDALE POLICE STATION – NEARLY CONTINUOUS

Emma paces back and forth, pure panic shown in her

face.

EMMA

Okay, Ethan and I are coming.

(turns off the phone)

Ethan, you need to come with me.

ETHAN

(surprised)

What for?

EMMA

It’s important.

(faces Laurel and Char)

Laurel, bring Char back to the

house. Ethan and I have some

errands to accomplish.

CHAR

Is everything alright?

EMMA

(fakes a smile)

Sure. Just surprised, that’s all.

See you later.

46

She walks off and Ethan follows her. Char looks at

Laurel, as if wanting some answers. Laurel just

shrugs but she senses something.

EXT. SOMEWHERE NEAR AZTEC PARK – NOON

Emma walks around, looking for a house. Ethan walks

beside him. Emma keeps glancing on her phone but

Sutton doesn’t respond.

ETHAN

There’s so many houses in here...

EMMA

She said, she’s in an apartment.

Emma sees a suspicious building. She points a finger

at its direction.

EMMA

Let’s check that one.

INT. APARTMENT ROOM 256 – NEARLY CONTINUOUS

Sutton hears a creaking sound inside the room. As

if, someone is walking inside.

SUTTON

(approaches the sound)

Who’s that?

The creaking continues. It comes from a sole closet

in a corner. She approaches it and slowly opens the

lid. Suddenly, a large number of scorpion creeps out

of nowhere! Sutton screams loud as we...

INT. UNKNOWN APARTMENT – NEARLY CONTINUOUS

Emma and Ethan hears the scream and they head

upstairs. They run towards the room 256. Emma tries

to open it but it doesn’t open.

47

ETHAN

Step back, Emma.

Emma does and Ethan launches himself to the door,

hitting it with his shoulders. They hear Sutton’s

cry for help. Ethan grunts as he lunge harder. The

door falls open.

Emma walks in and steps back when she sees a

scorpion on the floor. She looks for Sutton and sees

her huddled in a corner.

Ethan towards Sutton and lifts her up. He goes to

the door, avoiding any scorpions in the way.

Soon they are out...

EXT. APARTMENT NEAR AZTEC PARK

Emma, Sutton and Ethan sit by the foyer. Sutton is

gasping for breath and so do Ethan.

EMMA

What happened?

SUTTON

(looks frightened)

I saw someone walking out of the

police station. He looks

suspicious so I followed. And the

rest is history.

ETHAN

He must have known you will follow

him.

EMMA

You should not go alone, Sutton.

This enemy is getting bolder than

ever.

SUTTON

He tried to poison me with those

scorpions! I’m glad you rescued

me.

48

ETHAN

It seems like the killer is making

his presence known.

EMMA

Do you think Derek and Theresa’s

killer is involved in this?

SUTTON

I think so.

INT. ALEC’S ROOM AT PHOENIX PRESBYTERIAN HOSPITAL –

NOON

Kristin goes inside Alec’s room and sees the man in

such a strange state. She sits on a chair beside the

unconscious man and watches him.

KRISTIN

I don’t know what to do, Alec.

She holds the man’s hand and cries.

KRISTIN (CONT’D)

I didn’t expect something like

this to happen. Our life was

pretty normal back then but what

went wrong? Am I not a good mother

to Sutton that she stops at

nothing to find her real mother?

Have I been a bad wife to Ted

that... he managed to have an

affair and lie about it right to

my face?

She buries her face on her hands.

INT. HALLWAY IN FRONT OF ALEC’S ROOM – NEARLY

CONTINUOUS

A hooded figure walks and stops outside Alec’s room,

staring at the door as it fades to...

49

INT. REBECCA’S CABIN - NOON

A knock on the door catches Rebecca’s attention. She

wanders off and opens it. She’s surprised to see who

it is. It’s Richard...

REBECCA

Oh. Richard, I thought you’ll

arrive by night.

RICHARD

I just want to check on you. Make

sure you’re okay.

(enters and looks around)

This place looks nice.

REBECCA

It’s only a temporary place so I

don’t to do any touches to it.

RICHARD

Ready to get back to Scottsdale

now?

REBECCA

(seats on the couch)

Not yet but soon. For a while, we

need to put this plan into motion.

RICHARD

What plan?

REBECCA

(smirks)

You need to get close to Ted, know

everything that’s happening to

him. His impending divorce, the

twins and in goes a large list.

(then)

Also, include Char...

RICHARD

What’s my daughter’s got to do

with this?

50

REBECCA

She needs to get close to who is

being Sutton now. She’s the safest

coy because she doesn’t know about

the twins.

(picks up a glass of wine

and drinks it)

I bet my daughters are still

switching identities, now that

poor Kristin still doesn’t know

about them.

RICHARD

Sometimes, I just pity for that

woman.

REBECCA

(glares at Richard)

Don’t be! She needs to suffer.

After what has happened to me, she

deserves every lies she’s

discovering. And I’m not yet

done...

RICHARD

(smirks)

Revenge makes you feisty.

REBECCA

And I’m hungry for more...

EXT. SCOTTSDALE POLICE STATION – NIGHT

Emma, Sutton and Ethan walks towards their cars.

Sutton is wearing a pair of sunglasses and a scarf

to hide her identity.

As she’s about to ride in her car, her phone rings.

She opens it and turns to Emma and Ethan.

SUTTON

(grins)

Guys, someone’s in for a jackpot.

51

INT. DAN’S OFFICE AT THE POLICE STATION – NIGHT

Dan is busy typing on his computer when Officer

Harry, 30s, marches in. Dan looks expectantly and

Harry nods at the acknowledgement.

HARRY

(places a flash drive

on the table)

The team found something.

Dan takes it and plugs it in the computer. After

reading, he plays a video obtained from the video

camera installed at the bus where Theresa’s car is

seen. It’s a steady recording a certain part of the

parking lot and Dan waits seconds until a car stops

by. He identifies it as Theresa’s car. The car stops

at the exact corner where it’s found.

Suddenly, the driver seat’s door opens and someone

walks out. He or she is hooded and its face is not

seen in the video. Immediately the figure runs away

and disappears. The video is cut right after.

DAN

(smacks the desk)

DAMN IT!

HARRY

We can’t identify the person

involved in this but this is good

lead.

DAN

We need to check the bus station.

Someone might have seen this

person.

Ethan and Emma suddenly barges in.

DAN

What are you doing here?

ETHAN

(hands out Sutton’s phone)

Someone sent us this.

52

Dan sees the message and then looks at Harry.

DAN

Call some of our men. I think we

have a lead to Rebecca’s lair.

EXT. REBECCA’S CABIN – NIGHT

Sirens ring as four police cars corner the cabin.

Ethan and Emma steps out of Ethan’s motorcycle and

watches the scene unfolds.

INT. REBECCA’S CABIN – NEARLY CONTINUOUS

Dan kicks the front door and strides in together

with his men. The lights are out. One officer flicks

on the lights and an empty cabin greets them

The officers looks around as Dan curses and kicks a

table. He gazes at a sole wine glass at a

nightstand. Dan picks it up and gazes at the kiss

mark imprinted on one side.

EXT. REBECCA’S CABIN – MINUTES AFTER

Dan walks out and approaches Emma and Ethan. He

looks worn out and angry at the same time.

DAN

She’s gone. Someone must have

tipped her off.

EMMA

What? We told no one!

DAN

I know that.

(then)

Why are you helping us find your

birthmother?

53

EMMA

(looks uneasy)

It’s that, she did something

horrible. Even if she’s my mother

or not, she’s a suspect. She

killed someone. She needs to pay.

Dan smiles for a moment and hugs Emma. Emma squeaks

quietly at surprise because of his action.

DAN

(pulls away)

Thank you for helping us.

EMMA

If Rebecca is really a murderer,

she should pay for her sins. She

took your happy life with Theresa

away.

Dan shows no response. Instead, he looks at Ethan.

DAN

Take her back home. I know the

Mercers are worrying about her.

ETHAN

Sure.

Emma and Ethan walks towards the motorcycle. Dan

holds Ethan’s arm. The younger Whitehorse looks

back.

DAN

Emma?

Ethan nods.

DAN (CONT’D)

You really like her, don’t you?

Without hesitation, Ethan nods again.

ETHAN

More than everything.

54

DAN

(smiles weakly)

Then, take care of her. She sure

isn’t like Sutton.

ETHAN

Sutton’s changed. She learns from

her mistakes.

DAN

(coldly)

Rather too late for that, isn’t

it?

Ethan makes no response. He walks towards Emma as

Dan looks out.

EXT. MERCER HOUSE – NIGHT

Emma removes her helmet as she gets off the

motorcycle. Ethan does too. Ethan looks like he’s

going to say something.

EMMA

Thank you for taking me home...

and for helping me earlier.

ETHAN

Anything for you.

EMMA

(gestures for the house)

So, you want to come in?

ETHAN

No, thanks. Dan must be looking

for me.

EMMA

Okay.

(silence)

So... I got to go inside.

ETHAN

Emma...

55

Ethan pulls Emma and his lips touches hers. It is

brief but Ethan put everything all of his feelings

on it.

Emma pulls back, perplexed.

ETHAN

Good night.

EMMA

(smiles weakly)

Good night.

INT. MERCER HOUSE – NEARLY CONTINUOUS

Emma enters the house and finds Kristin standing by

the kitchen sink. Laurel and Char are right beside

her, rather silent.

She kisses her mother and notices something off with

her.

EMMA

Any problem, mom?

KRISTIN

Tell me, Sutton. How long have you

been looking for you birth mother?

EMMA

(startles)

How did you—

KRISTIN

Just tell me, honey. I don’t need

another lie now.

EMMA

Before we came back from Paris.

KRISTIN

(nods)

It’s been that long.

56

(then)

Ted told me that your mother is

Rebecca. How did you take it?

EMMA

The truth is I never liked Rebecca

as my mom. Yes, I tried to find

her and now that she’s here, I was

thinking that things will be

great. But what she did to you and

to dad, it was unacceptable.

(sits at nearest table)

She had me for adoption. Do you

think I can trust her once she’s

back in our lives? No, mom. I feel

so... betrayed knowing that my

biological mother isn’t what I

perceived to be.

(cries)

So I’m sorry if I lead you to

think that I’m abandoning you. To

think that I’m not satisfied

having you as my mother.

KRISTIN

(hugs Emma)

Oh, honey.

EMMA

You’re the best thing I have as a mom. I

can’t ask anything for more.

(pulls away as

she wipes tears)

Excuse me...

Emma runs upstairs, leaving a distraught Laurel, a

worried Char and a guilt Kristin behind.

KRISTIN

What have I done?

LAUREL

(hugs Kristin)

You just want to find out the

truth, mom. Don’t worry,

everything will be fine.

57

INT. RYBAK’S HOUSE – NIGHT

Caroline and Mads are sitting by the pit fire

located near the pool and they are snuggled up

against each other. Caroline looks so peaceful while

Mads looks so worried.

CAROLINE

Mads?

MADS

I just miss someone.

CAROLINE

Is it that guy...? Jordan?

Mads nods.

CAROLINE (CONT’D)

You said he’s at L.A. Want to go

after him?

MADS

I can’t leave you here. I’m just a

child when you ran away. I can’t

let you slip away just like that.

CAROLINE

But you love him, right? Go follow

him. Come back if he’s alright.

I’m not going away.

MADS

Are you sure?

CAROLINE

(smiles)

Yes, honey.

Mads

Thanks, mom.

Caroline looks straight to the pool and silence

ensues...

58

INT. LOS ANGELES POLICE DEPARTMENT – NIGHT

JORDAN LYLE, 19, is placed in a cellar with another

prisoner. He is sitting at the edge of his

uncomfortable bed. Faint light illuminates the

pocket picture he holds in his hands.

His cellmate sits beside him and peeks at the

picture.

CELLMATE

If you don’t know me yet, my

name’s Quinlan.

JORDAN

(smiles)

Hey, nice meeting you. I’m Jordan.

QUINLAN

(looks at the picture)

Your girlfriend?

JORDAN

(nods)

I miss her.

QUINLAN

Where is she? Haven’t seen her

visit you.

JORDAN

She’s at Phoenix.

QUINLAN

Oh... is she visiting you soon?

JORDAN

I hope so.

Screen closes up to Mads’ picture in Jordan’s hands.

She looks so happy. Then, it fades out to...

59

INT. MERCER’S CABIN – MIDNIGHT

Sutton is sleeping soundly at the spare room,

unaware the opening of the door. The figure stands

at the end of the bed.

Suddenly, it crouches and sits on the bed. This

jolts Sutton to her wake. She moves up and gasps at

the figure staring at her.

It’s Rebecca...

REBECCA

(grins)

You think you got rid of me?

Sutton’s reaction is of shock and fear as it...

SLAM TO BLACK.

END OF EPISODE