Counting Hours

Grandmaster
Episode One: Changes

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EXT. CHILDRENS OUTDOOR PLAY AREA - FINLAND - DAY C.U. SMILE of a 4 year old girl. AMELIA. An angel.

Amelia sits in a sand pit with a bucket and spade, wrapped up against the autumn. VINCENT (V.O.) I love to just watch her play. Amelia, my four year old girl. When I go I know Ill miss her more than life. Amelia bangs on the bottom of the bucket, takes it away at a bad angle, knocks the castle over before she can admire it. VINCENT, 35, handsome but run-down, kneels beside her, helps her make another sand castle. Success. She smiles at him, takes a moment to admire the sand castle... and then destroys it with the shovel. She immediately refills the bucket. Vincent dotes over her. INT. VINCENTS HOME - FINLAND - KITCHEN - DAY Vincent, SHAVED HEAD visible without his hat, and Amelia drink hot chocolate. She spoons cream covered in hundreds and thousands from the top of hers, into her mouth. INKA, 33, should be stunning but has lost her lust for life, stands in the doorway with PANU, a boy, 1, in her arms. Vincent cuts Inka a loving smile. She stares vacantly, not about to return it. VINCENT (V.O.) My beautiful wife, Inka. When I fell in love with her, I thought it would last a thousand years... Inka gives Panu to Vincent, turns around, walks out. VINCENT (V.O.) I had no idea though that shed die on me after six of them. Vincent nurses his son. INT. VINCENTS HOME - FINLAND - KITCHEN - EVENING Inka washes up. Vincent goes up behind her, wraps his arms around her waist.

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She raises her arms, frustrated, holds the pose. away, hurt, used to the drama, the neglect. She continues washing-up while he watches. INKA Cant I just get a moments time to myself? Vincent eyes the floor, turns to walk away. INKA Yeah, you sulk again - worse than the fucking kids! You think I want to do this? (Slams the brush on the worktop) Can I at least do it in peace? He leaves the room.

He pulls

INT. VINCENTS HOME - FINLAND - CHILDRENS BEDROOM - NIGHT C.U. Panu, asleep in bed. Vincent turns away from his son, puts the duvet on Amelia. He creeps out. INT. VINCENTS HOME - FINLAND - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT Inka sits on the sofa with a laptop. Its a nice home; financially, theyre doing all right. Vincent comes down the stairs, eyes his wife, keeps his focus on her as he moves over to the matching sofa and sits on it. VINCENT (V.O.) Panu. Thats our sons name - I never did like it. She said that I chose Amelia so it was her turn... it often feels like its been a long line of concessions. He gets up, skulks towards her... she SIGHS, annoyed. It pauses but doesnt deter him. beside her. He kisses her hair, kneels

INKA Yes, Im reading decorating pages... again. VINCENT Ive not said anything.

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He strokes her arm - she pulls it away, cuts him a glare. He cant be bothered - not again. He leaves the room.

INT. VINCENTS HOME - FINLAND - KITCHEN - NIGHT Vincent puzzles over the newspapers sudoku. Inka enters, flicks the kettle on, stares at his back, a weight on her mind. INKA Why do you always have to do this? He turns to her, stumped. INKA The kids are in bed, I finally get some rest... why cant you leave me alone? VINCENT Darling, thats precisely what I am doing. INKA Yeah, and then you do the emotional blackmail thing! He looks at his puzzle... places his head in his hand. INT. VINCENTS HOME - FINLAND - LIVING ROOM - DAY Everyone is ready for the outdoor weather, only Vincent and Inka ARGUE, voices LOUD, words indiscernible. VINCENT (V.O.) Dont ask. No, honestly, most of the time, I dont even know myself what were rowing over. Panu CRIES in his pram. Amelia watches her parents from the doorstep, upset. VINCENT (V.O.) As bad as it is, its always made worse by them having to see it. EXT. CHILDRENS OUTDOOR PLAY AREA - FINLAND - DAY Inkas all smiles chatting with another mum. Vincent sits in the sand pit beside Amelia, the pram alongside it.

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VINCENT (V.O.) I cant figure it out: to everyone else, shes the perfect wife: beautiful, friendly, good mum... In truth, in front of others, shes almost the same woman I fell in love with. INT. VINCENTS HOME - FINLAND - LIVING ROOM - DAY Inka sits on the sofa with the laptop. on the mat before her. Amelia and Panu play

VINCENT (V.O.) Almost because Im still a nuisance. (Beat) This is her at a happier moment: doubtlessly reading home improvement pages or exacting her voyeur-like fix on sites I still cant understand as being social. EXT. HOUSES IN FIELD - FINLAND - DAY Its a residential area yet theres plenty of nature. VINCENT (V.O.) Our home. We live in a city but the nature makes it feel like the countryside compared to home. Vincent trudges through rain on a road alongside the field. VINCENT (V.O.) I like the open spaces... they kind of highlight how empty my life is though. INT. VINCENTS HOME - FINLAND - BEDROOM - NIGHT Inka reads a magazine by the lamp light. Vincent slides into bed beside her, caresses her under the duvet. She squirms playfully. He kisses her cheek, licks her neck, goes to nibble her ear She pulls away. THE IMAGE FREEZES.

VINCENT (V.O.) This is our relationship: she cant understand that even though the kids take up a lot of it, I need time too.

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Inka, MOTION-CAPTURED, about to spiel.

Shes not happy.

VINCENT (V.O.) Her latest excuse. No cuddles, no sex, no time. Ive told her over and over that we need moments of togetherness... or else we may as well not be. All I get is her selfpity and continued neglect. (Beat) Im sick of wanking. INT. TAINAS CAR - FINLAND - DAY Taina, 22, gorgeous, flashes a big smile. Taina. VINCENT (V.O.) Lovely, isnt she?

Vincent is beside Taina. The car is parked alongside the field road. SHE SPEAKS IN FINNISH; subtitles translate her on screen. TAINA Well, were here again: your stop. VINCENT (V.O.) A good thing she doesnt speak two words of English, because without going to bars and putting myself in the line of fire, shes the most tempted I could get to having an affair. (Beat) Which is why I dont go out. Vincent opens the car door, leaves it ajar, FLIRTS AWKWARDLY IN BAD FINNISH. Hes subtitled too. VINCENT Maybe one day when you say youll take me home, youll take me home. VINCENT (V.O.) And a good thing my Finnish doesnt seem to ever get past the level of Im not retarded, I swear, only foreign, or maybe it wouldnt matter. INT. VINCENTS HOME - LIVING ROOM - DAY In the ETEINEN (small vestibule in Finnish houses for removing/storing outdoor garments) Vincent takes off his coat. He opens the door -

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Amelia runs over, arms wide, all smiles. VINCENT (V.O.) Could I cheat on Inka? I dont know. He scoops her up, kisses her cheek. VINCENT (V.O.) Could I cheat on this little girl? Never. INT. POST FACTORY - FINLAND - DAY Vincent sits on a stool checking addresses on letters as they pass on a conveyor belt. He grabs some off as required. VINCENT (V.O.) My sucky job. Here, my awful language skills dont mean shit. I graduated the unemployment course, worked for free to cover the cost or so it seemed - and then found myself here. He checks the time on his phone. He is miserable.

VINCENT (V.O.) I know some blokes with two or three degrees, another who speaks five languages... none of them work. He takes a parcel off the conveyor belt, places it on another behind him. VINCENT (V.O.) Its not easy to get a job here when youre foreign... Inka tells me that Im lucky to have one... INT. POST FACTORY - FINLAND - CAFE - DAY Vincent sits alone eating a sandwich. VINCENT (V.O.) It sounds sad, but flirting with Taina is the only thing that keeps me going. I like her, were we able to interact fluently, wed be friends... minimum. He takes a look around the room Only a few other people, lots of empty seats.

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VINCENT (V.O.) When shes on another shift, time passes painfully. INT. VINCENTS HOME - FINLAND - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT Inka lies on the sofa watching TV. VINCENT (V.O.) When I first met her, it felt kind of similar, only amplified, a hundred-fold. Inkas heavy eyelids battle to stay open. VINCENT (V.O.) If shes not on the computer shes falling asleep in front of the TV. Vincent sits on the other sofa, he has the laptop. VINCENT (V.O.) I want to be a writer. Ive written nine screenplays of the action of thriller genres. (Beat) Seven suck balls. Inkas eyelids have won. She SNORES softly.

VINCENT Inka, youre asleep. Her eyes open. VINCENT Darling, why dont you go to bed? She sits up, half-asleep, musters only the energy to BITE INKA Im watching this! The battle with her eyelids begins anew. INT. VINCENTS HOME - FINLAND - KITCHEN - DAY Vincent sits at the table, absorbing all the shit Inka SHOUTS inaudibly at him. VINCENT (V.O.) I sacked my job off. Fuck it, I couldnt do it any more. My life is shit, hanging on to something I hated just made it all the worse.

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Panu crawls into the kitchen, Inka doesnt miss a beat. Vincent picks him up, strokes his hair. VINCENT (V.O.) She switches languages like a schitzoid when really angry. Ive been unemployed for two months, I thought Id be happier, thought shed appreciate the help at home... Panu reaches out for Inka. She stops shouting.

VINCENT (V.O.) I dont miss the job and where the money was terrible, it was still money. The unemployment refused to pay me for three months as punishment for quitting, Ive found nothing else and her... Inka takes Panu, storms out of the room. VINCENT (V.O.) I dont think it makes a difference what I do. INT. VINCENTS HOME - FINLAND - CHILDRENS BEDROOM - NIGHT Vincent checks his kids from the doorway. He sneaks out.

INT. VINCENTS HOME - FINLAND - BEDROOM - NIGHT Inkas asleep in bed. Vincent lies beside her, gently caresses her hair. VINCENT (V.O.) How did it all go so wrong? We used to be happy... I try to remember that but its not enough, weve been in a sorry state of now since she got pregnant with Amelia. (Beat) Four and a half years ago. The sex died out almost totally after Panu. INT. VINCENTS HOME - FINLAND - LIVING ROOM - DAY Amelia is sad, hugs Vincent.

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VINCENT (V.O.) Shes told me so many times she wants a divorce, its gotten to be a joke - something shell spit for kicks when angry. He looks up at Inka. Shes been crying. VINCENT (V.O.) A break then. Her idea. She reckoned I could sort myself out and the time would help us see if we were better apart. (Beat) But the truth... FLASHBACK: Inka SHOUTS, inaudibly, Amelia and Panu on Vincents lap on the sofa. VINCENT (V.O.) ...Is that I couldnt take any more of this: Inkas HOLLER is as CLEAR AS DAY INKA I hate you! If you hadnt gotten me pregnant, I never would have married you! END FLASHBACK Vincent pulls away from the hug, takes a long look at Amelia. VINCENT (V.O.) God, Ill miss her. Explaining why I was leaving was the worst moment of my life. Inkas lips tremble as if shell cry some more. her arms. VINCENT (V.O.) Ill miss her too. Ive tried and Ive tried but loves not enough. (Beat) Ill miss him too, even though it seems hes too stuck on his mum to even notice when I go. Vincent puts on a backpack, turns to take his suitcase Amelia grabs his hand. Shes crying. Panu is in

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AMELIA Daddy, dont go! He looks down at her, heart broken. Inka steps forward, takes Amelias hand, gently pulls her back. Amelia holds Inkas leg, crying. Vincent takes one last look His family: unhappy together, unhappy apart. He removes something from his pocket. VINCENT (V.O.) Last time she threw the rings at me I kept them. He places the wedding and engagement rings down for Inka to see. He leaves. INT. AEROPLANE - DAY Vincent sits in his own world. He looks like shit. She hates herself in that moment.

VINCENT (V.O.) Inka resented me being on the computer - it was time she could have spent zoning out, like cyber meditation. Writing makes me happy, but she was right: its a hobby, it doesnt pay the bills. INT. VINCENTS PARENTS - VINCENTS ROOM - NIGHT Vincent steps into the room - a blast from the past preserved! VINCENTS DAD steps in beside him, places a soothing hand on his shoulder. They lock eyes, exchange a nod. Vincents Dad exits the room. Vincent boots up a laptop on the bed. VINCENT (V.O.) Id sacrifice sleep to write because doing it during daytimes earned me slurs of lazy bastard and useless. I had no future in Finland, only in literature - of this I was convinced. Theyre men, tacit.

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EXT. HIGHSTREET - DAY Vincent looks at JOB ADVERTISEMENTS in a temp agency window. VINCENT (V.O.) Of course, in the meantime, I need money. Inka needs money. I have a dream but it wont cost my kids their home. INT. VINCENTS PARENTS - VINCENTS ROOM - DAY Vincent HACKS AWAY at keys. Hes fast.

VINCENT (V.O.) I dont know if action wasnt selling or if my query letters ate arse, but Id gotten nowhere. Id researched what was selling and TV seemed the most viable market hundreds of channels compared to a handful of cinema screens. INT. VINCENTS PARENTS - LIVING ROOM - DAY Vincent sips tea, goes through a newspapers JOB ADS. VINCENT (V.O.) Work is shit. Unless doing something I love, itll always only be about obtaining money. (Beat) But I need money. INT. VINCENTS PARENTS - VINCENTS ROOM - NIGHT Vincent types away at the laptop. VINCENT (V.O.) I love Arnie. I love kung fu. Big guns, explosions, B-grade action flicks, the new Battlestar Galactica... but I have to face the facts: TV is all about drama. He sips some tea, reads whatever is on his screen. VINCENT (V.O.) Id written a novel: a dark, thought-provoking tirade about a mans place in this world. (Beat) The few agents who replied told me it wasnt commercial enough.

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He types away. VINCENT (V.O.) I know I can write drama. Explosions and karate chops are fun, but if Im to ever go home to my wife, I need a career. I cant suffer the rest of my days cleaning toilets. INT. PUB - DAY Vincent shakes hands with DAVE, 35, skinny, sci-fi nerdlooking. They sit at a table, touch pint glasses together. DAVE So you finally left the bitch. Ill drink to that. Vincent doesnt like that... but knows hes given the info to form the assumption. VINCENT Dont. Look, its my fault because I only ever moaned about the bad times DAVE Lets save the tears for another time. (Places arm around Vincent) Vince, mate, youve been missed. Lets forget about all the bollocks for a while and live life. VINCENT You mean alcohol and Streets of Rage 2 or alcohol and looking at women? Dave grins wilily. DAVE Youre on a break... after four years of rejection and the occasional quicky, tell me youre not roasting? VINCENT (V.O.) Dave. My oldest mate. Hes never had much luck with girls and obsesses over living out the fantasy of a sex-stuffed weekend with numerous women.

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Well?

DAVE Cant can you?

VINCENT (V.O.) Unfortunately, the rest of us moved on and never one to break the ice, hes pined for a one of the lads to become single again. Dave unhooks his arm, drinks beer with a knowing smile. VINCENT (V.O.) When I got a girl like Inka, I became his role model. Im no stud by a long shot, but Dave convinced himself when our problems first began that Id be the man whod provide his ticket to pussy heaven. INT. DAVES FLAT - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT Dave and Vincent sprawl in, drunk. armchair, Vincent the sunken sofa. Dave zones out on the ceiling. VINCENT (V.O.) No girls then. Is this dramatic enough? Hardly. Precisely why I never watch fucking boring TV dramas - either nothing happens or theyre ridiculous. Dave leans out of the chair, picks up a games console control pad. DAVE How about I beat the fuck out of you on Urban Reign? Vincent waves him off, half-asleep. VINCENT (V.O.) Fuck drama. Fuck witty dialogue, fuck characters never just coming out and saying something because in the real world, people dont speak like that, despite the fact that ninety-nine percent of those Ive ever met, do so, ninety-fuckingnine percent of the time. Dave smacks some punks around in-game. conscious is totally into it. What of him is Dave falls into the

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VINCENT (V.O.) Fuck creating friction for the sake of it too - Ive spent the past four years arguing... I suppose I could certainly write about what I know! Daves character hits someones head with a baseball bat. DAVE Eat my shit, faggot. VINCENT (V.O.) But it wouldnt make for great viewing... Vincent sits up, brain ticking. VINCENT Dave, if I wanted to make my life a fictitious TV drama series, how could I make it more interesting? DAVE Be an escort. VINCENT A prostitute? Daves getting his arse whooped! Vincent waits for a reply... GAME OVER. Dave slouches back into the chair. DAVE No, a straight male escort - no extras in the service. I see them advertised in mens mags all the time. VINCENT Geez, Im going bald, I dont think DAVE They want everyday people, not shaven-chested Calvin Klein faggots. I was even thinking of doing it myself. Says Dave, the drunken nerd in his faded Metallica T-shirt with game controller in hand. INT. NEWSAGENTS - DAY Vincent stands before the MENS MAGAZINES. He pounds the buttons...

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INT. ESCORT OFFICE - DAY Two women, AUDREY, 20s, semi-hot, and CHERYL, 40s, glasses, sit in their business suits, slightly revealing, in their tiny office. They know that flirting a little is their business. Vincent sits opposite them on a big, ugly sofa, casually dressed, not so confident. AUDREY So your wife or girlfriend has no objections to this line of work? VINCENT (V.O.) Strange question. Theyre doing their best to make me feel at ease, but I cant help but wonder how many times theyve been shafted on this ugly sofa. VINCENT Um, were on a break... were considering a divorce. Audreys eyes light up. Cheryl nods subtly.

VINCENT (V.O.) Too much information? I wonder why shes so happy? Damn, how longs it been... would I reject her on this sofa right now? VINCENT Um, so what if the client asks me for extras? AUDREY Well, where were a legitimate escort service... Cheryl takes over - its like a rehearsed answer. CHERYL What goes on between you and the client is between you and the client. VINCENT So its normal? To be asked for extras? CHERYL We dont know because of client confidentiality...

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AUDREY But where we offer a legitimate escort service, if two adults find one another sexually attractive... EXT. CENTRAL LONDON STREET - DAY Vincent, same attire, strolls through the crowd. VINCENT (V.O.) I signed up. Fuck it. I had concerns when asked if I minded a date at a clients home, but was assured that sometimes, thats where the event was. (Beat) Now I just wait for a phone call... INT. VINCENTS PARENTS - LIVING ROOM - DAY Vincent slouches into the settee. Vincents Dad reads a newspaper, keeps it in play as a means to not interrogate his son. VINCENTS DAD Any luck with work? Vincents bummed out. VINCENT (V.O.) Ive been here nearly two weeks, signed up for every temp agency in town and a consortium of jobs. (Beat) Nothing. Vincents Dad doesnt need an answer, the paper gets his full attention. VINCENTS MUM enters. VINCENTS MUM Would you like a tea, Vinnie? Vincent gives a thumbs up. VINCENT (V.O.) I dont understand the bad reputation: living at homes really not that bad.

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INT. PUB - EVENING RALPH, 35, a tubby builder whose casual clothes dont hide the career, turns away from the bar, two pints in hand. Vincent sits at a table with MICK, 35, going grey. Ralph gives a pint to Vincent, sits down. inaudibly. They chat

VINCENT (V.O.) I hate poncing, but they justified it as knowing my financial situation and not having seen me for two years. The old mates fit together as if time had never come between them. Two years. VINCENT (V.O.) Whered the time go?

INT. VINCENTS PARENTS - VINCENTS ROOM - NIGHT Vincent lies in bed looking at pictures of his wife and kids stuck on the inside of his wallet. VINCENT (V.O.) Where has all the time gone? (Beat) She reckons the I.M. isnt working so cant do a video chat for me to see the kids. INT. SUPERMARKET - DAY Vincent saunters alongside his Mum, watches her shop. Vincents Mum goes down a cereal aisle. book aisle. He wanders into the

He scans the covers, takes one from the shelf, reads the back. FEMALE (O.C.) Vincent? He turns to see SAM, 35, great-looking, glad to see him. to place her. VINCENT Sam? He needs a moment

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She wants to hug him, is slightly restless, like shed love nothing more than to get touchy-flirty. SAM Wow, its been forever! (Looks around) Who are you here with? I heard you got married, moved to Scandinavia... VINCENT Well, vice versa, but yeah, all true. VINCENT (V.O.) Samantha Peters. For a long time, she was the one who got away. (Beat) Damn, she still looks so good. VINCENT So how are you? She turns on a sad face at the line but shrugs it off SAM I broke up with Paul... but fuck him, his loss, right? Hes confused... takes a stab at it VINCENT Paul... Jeffers? SAM I know: what did I ever see in the him? (Beat) So, is your wife here? I heard shes stunning. VINCENT No, she stayed in Finland. Sams rife with curiosity... hope. VINCENT (V.O.) Its still there, we cant deny it. Right now shes contemplating asking me out for a drink sometime. Casual, like old mates, playing down the chemistry. SAM So, um, how long are you over for? If youre not too busy, maybe we could go out for drinks some time?

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VINCENT Yeah, Id like that. She takes out her mobile. Cool. SAM Whats your number?

VINCENT Zero seven seven... He continues but is inaudible. VINCENT (V.O.) Whyd I tell her Inka wasnt here? Will I tell her over drinks of all our problems, hope shell make a proposition? Sams phone: CONTACT SAVED Sam looks up from the phone with a smile. Objective met.

Vincents Mum appears at the end of the aisle, watches. Vincent waves. connection. It causes Sam to turn, wonder as to the VINCENT (TO SAM) My mum. Sam gets it, turns off the flirt mode. SAM Ill let you get on with it then. Nice seeing you. VINCENT Likewise. He walks away with his Mum. VINCENTS MUM Who was that? VINCENT An old mate from school. He pretends to look at something on a shelf, cuts a glance back Sam waves. EXT. SUPERMARKET CAR PARK - DAY Vincent loads the shopping into the boot as his Mum gets into the drivers seat.

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BLEEP, BLEEP.

He checks his Sam.

Phone: Im free tomorrow if its good for you. The reality hits him. Hes divided.

INT. VINCENTS PARENTS - VINCENTS ROOM - DAY Vincent sits at the laptop, cordless house phone to his ear. VINCENT (INTO PHONE) For fucks sake, Inka, it cant be this difficult! He listens to her complain. VINCENT (V.O.) She can shop online, pay bills, live-chat with mates on Faecesbook, but signing into her fucking Hotmail via Messenger is beyond her... VINCENT (INTO PHONE) Why are you doing this? I miss you. I miss the kids VINCENT (V.O.) Shit. The self-pity again. The fucking drama. Now shes saying it was me who left... and its her who has to deal with Amelia being upset. VINCENT Look: this break thing was your idea. Youve been wanting a divorce for the past two years dont fucking cry VINCENT (V.O.) Another thing I hate: she can swear in two different languages, rageout at will, but I use one F-word and she lectures me about it. (Beat) Now shes threatening to hang up. He cant be arsed with it any more... but tries. VINCENT (INTO PHONE) Darling, please, I just want to see the kids...

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INT. DAVES FLAT - LIVING ROOM - DAY Vincent simmers over a can of beer. Dave loads a disc into his games console, sits quickly back in his armchair, beer and controller at the ready. VINCENT That fucking bitch. I love her, but sometimes, I swear: she just does whatever she can to fuck with me the most - its like she wants to argue. DAVE Theyre all bitches, man. VINCENT First shes all, I miss you, and then when I ask her to put the Messenger on so I can video-chat with Amelia, she goes into cuntmode. DAVE All schitzoid, fucked-up bitches, man. Vincent gulps down beer. VINCENT Damn right. At times like this, I can understand homos. Dave cuts him a raised eyebrow. VINCENT I meant... (Beat) Asexuals then. I can get how its easier to live without women. DAVE So, who am I going to whoop first? Vincent: huh? He gets it -

Tekken 4 on the TV, character select screen. VINCENT So whats going on with you and the bitches? Daves almost lost to the on-screen brawl. DAVE I fly to Holland on the cheap every now and then.

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It takes Vincent a while to get it. VINCENT Oh. (Beat) Really? Dave LEAPS to his feet, fist in the air. DAVE Oh, whos the man? fucking man? Like Vincent could care. Im out. Dave sits back down, ready for Round Two. DAVE I cant be arsed with all the superficial shit needed to get girls here. I stay in a cheap hotel, window-shop for whatever type of slut Im in the mood for and she gives me an A-grade service for less than Id spent on a night out over here just trying to get laid. (Beat) They suck cock better too. Vincents undecided on the idea... Daves pumped! Points at the TV. DAVE Perfect! Dave puts the controller down, swigs his beer. DAVE You fancy coming over with me next time? VINCENT I ran into Samantha Peters today. Dave puts the can down, ready for another fight. DAVE Grab yourself another from the fridge. And dont worry - your fighting skillsll come back after a few bouts. Vincent doesnt move from his seat. Whos the

He downs his beer, shakes the can.

VINCENT

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VINCENT Sam: she used to hang around with Nicole Whats-er-face? DAVE Ridgley. Like that faggot from Wham. I remember Sam - I wanked off over her devoutly for three years. VINCENT Seriously? DAVE Well, along with a couple of other birds and Erika Eleniak. Man, she was HOT. Vincents lost. Whatever.

VINCENT She asked me out. That has Daves attention. bullshit. He studies Vincent for signs of

DAVE She knows youre married? (Beat) Kids? VINCENT She knows Im married. DAVE You plan on fucking it? VINCENT I dont know if she knows about the kids. Dave takes some more beer, chooses his character. DAVE So you and Inka are through? Vincents face says it all: he doesnt know. INT. VINCENTS PARENTS - VINCENTS ROOM - DAY C.U. text on monitor: ...unfortunately, you were not selected. Vincent stares at the laptop, drained.

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VINCENT (V.O.) Fourth week. I expected to be working by now. He closes the laptop, moves over to windowsill, perches on it, looks out. VINCENT (V.O.) I managed to delay meeting Sam with my money situation, but now shes saying shell buy. He looks down at the single bed, longing. VINCENT (V.O.) I miss my wife, my kids. I hoped Id go back richer, find a job where I can actually think, maybe write something good while here, get an agent... RING, RING. He grabs up his phone -

WOMAN (VIA PHONE) Hello, is that Vincent? He engages in conversation, bubbly, all INAUDIBLE. VINCENT (V.O.) Id almost forgotten about the escort job! I wanted to make first contacts by e-mail but the girls insisted it be by phone. VINCENT (INTO PHONE) Yeah, no problem, I can make it. VINCENT (V.O.) Holy shit, someone actually looked through the profiles and picked me? (Beat) A wine bar, off London Bridge, eight o clock tonight. Vincent gets his wits, plays the seasoned pro. VINCENT (INTO PHONE) Oh, one last thing: would you prefer clean-shaven or a stubble? He ends the call, gazes down at the phone in his hand. VINCENT (V.O.) Shit. I forgot to ask how Id recognise her.

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EXT. TUBE STATION - EVENING Vincent exits amid a small huddle of commuters. trousers, shirt and a long, black coat. Hes nervous, chomps gum as he moves. VINCENT (V.O.) I obsessed over my limited wardrobe, the fact that I need more clothes ultimately not enough to deter my coming. My toothpaste tasted fermented on the way so I bought gum... My minds on fire... Ive butterflies... EXT. WINEBAR - EVENING Vincent stops, his destination ahead. He tries to compose himself, takes his gum out, holds it between his fingers, looks around VINCENT (V.O.) No bin. Great. Finlands so clean, I hate adding to the mess of this shit hole... He flicks the gum into the road. INT. WINEBAR - EVENING Two girls in expensive casual wear share a joke over wine, oblivious to all others. Men in suits, from 20-50s litter about. VINCENT (V.O.) As figured: middle-class university graduates and suits. The drinks are way over-priced to filter out the common man, but some still come in after work to play successful... A sleazy, suited, gel-haired 20-something flirts with a tasty girl of the same age. She humours him. VINCENT (V.O.) Or to try their luck with birds beyond their station. The sleaze strokes her arm... she smiles flirtatiously. Advances. Hes in

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VINCENT (V.O.) But money doesnt matter on a onenighter... and a bit of rough is like a sexual experiment. A FORTY-SOMETHING, in good shape, attractive but demure catches his eye from a table by the window. VINCENT (V.O.) Here goes... I just hope thats her. Forty-Something dares a smile. He returns it. He braves the first move, walks over... Shes alone.

He signals a free chair at her table. VINCENT Im Vincent.

VINCENT (V.O.) Not exactly, Bond, James Bond... I really shouldve put a fake name on my profile. She smiles invitingly. He sits. They eye each other over, look away.

He plays with his fingers. She taps the base of her wine glass. VINCENT So, um, youre FORTY-SOMETHING Youre better looking than your photograph. VINCENT Um, thanks. FORTY-SOMETHING I didnt want somebody too attractive (kicks herself) No, youre very good-looking, dont get me wrong... Hes amused. VINCENT Its okay. She sees the funny side. The ice is broken.

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FORTY-SOMETHING So, Vincent - is that your real name? Actually, dont answer. VINCENT It is. My dad wanted to call me Conrad but mummy got her way. She laughs. VINCENT She told him that after eight hours of labour, there was no way she was naming her son after his bastard of a dad. True story. She squirms a little in her seat. VINCENT (V.O.) Okay, so she doesnt like swear words. VINCENT Is this a regular of yours? She looks around the room, surveys it. FORTY-SOMETHING I can honestly state that Ive never before been in here. (Beat) Would you like a drink? VINCENT I know its a winebar and all, but could I get a beer? Wine goes straight to my head. She signals to a waitress. FORTY-SOMETHING So, Vincent, tell me: what do you do? VINCENT The truth? Or the made-up story to make me seem cool? The waitress is beside the table. FORTY-SOMETHING (TO WAITRESS) One beer - whatever is on tap - and a refill. Thank you. The waitress leaves. Forty-Something eyes him over, unsure what to make of him.

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VINCENT Is this your first time? She nods. Mine too. An awkward beat. VINCENT I guess I could do with some practice... She finishes her glass. FORTY-SOMETHING Youre not the only one. I The waitress heads back over to the table, places their drinks, takes the empty, leaves. FORTY-SOMETHING I split with my husband six months ago. A quiet moment. VINCENT (V.O.) Sshh, let her get it out. If shes not ready to, change the subject. She taps her wine glass, nervous under his gaze. away, reaches for his beer. FORTY-SOMETHING It just wasnt working. We both work long hours. We came home one day and realised it was the first time wed ate dinner together in three months. He sips his beer, careful to keep his eyes on her. She takes a hit on her wine. FORTY-SOMETHING Ive wondered how the hell we let it fall apart... in the end though, Im only left with apathy. VINCENT (V.O.) Compared to pain and confusion, whats best? He looks VINCENT No, honestly.

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FORTY-SOMETHING I dont know; I dont feel the need to date, to meet people, but at my age... She looks around, slightly paranoid. FORTY-SOMETHING Its kind of small in here. VINCENT Want to finish up and go someplace else? FORTY-SOMETHING Or we could just walk. VINCENT Sounds good to me. He attacks his pint. EXT. RIVERSIDE - EVENING Vincent and Forty-Something walk along, close enough to be together but not touching. FORTY-SOMETHING ...And then if youd think she was bad, well, we still have George in Sales. Incompetent, rude - rumour is hes a coke-head! I really dont see how these people kept their jobs, let alone got promoted. They rest their arms on the wall, gaze out at seagulls. FORTY-SOMETHING I cant understand the disdain, myself. Beautiful creatures. (Beat) But then, we have a funny way of taking everything for granted after a while. She watches the birds, wistful, sad. VINCENT (V.O.) And thats how my first gig went. No flirting, no talk of extras... she paid for three hours and bade me good night just after two. Easy money.

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INT. BOOZER - EVENING Sam sips a cola mix. Her WET LIPS GLISTEN as she smiles. He snaps out of it, fidgets with

Vincent is taken by her. his beer glass.

She eyes him over, knows hes there for the taking... bides her time. SAM You ever wondered what happened to some of the people we went to school with? VINCENT Not really. She watches him... just watches. usual self. He gains control, is his

VINCENT Ben Hooper died in a car crash a few years ago. SAM I heard. Nicole told me he was in my maths class... I dont remember him though. VINCENT You remember Michael Monk - little rat-faced dick? SAM I couldnt stand him. VINCENT He got stabbed at a party SAM Yeah... Nineteen, dead. Considering how many have died, gotten seriously ill or been put in prison, I suppose we should be thankful. VINCENT Ill drink to that. They touch glasses, intake booze. Her SMILE GLISTENS. He holds her eye.

SAM How come we never got together?

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VINCENT You got with Frank Goldman. SAM Only because you got with Vicki Marks. VINCENT He had bad acne. She scours at him playfully. SAM It wasnt that bad. (Beat) And she was a slag - I knew three boys that had had her already! VINCENT It was Sixth Form, some kids were experimenting like that... SAM You didnt. He holds her eye. Shes certain of it.

VINCENT She wasnt my type. SAM Who was? VINCENT My brother got his first girlfriend pregnant. A dad at sixteen... it kind of makes you cautious. SAM You didnt answer the question. VINCENT Or maybe I did. She thinks about it. SAM So because your brother didnt use contraceptives you went out with the school slapper instead of me? Gee, Vince, that makes sense. He sips his beer. VINCENT We were how old? Sixteen? think I was Confuscius? You

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She holds her hands up. SAM Okay, I apologise, dont shoot. (Beat) You ever regret it? He considers not answering... VINCENT Her or you? SAM Both, I suppose. She sips her drink, pretend cool, anxious as to his reply. VINCENT Mick fancied you like crazy. (Off her look) Mick - Michael - Potts. He was one of my best mates - Ive met him a couple of times since Ive been back, actually. She gets it... or doesnt. She grins, topic over.

VINCENT So, um, you know I have two kids...? She holds his eye. their hands. Her fingers touch his. He looks down at

She waits for a reaction... he doesnt make one. SAM Nicoles sister knows your brothers wife... VINCENT Small world. Her hand envelopes his. She closes her eyes.

SAM I was so in love with you back then. It chokes him somewhat. She looks at him, wants him, deeply, a fantasy shes never let go. VINCENT If I could go back in time...

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She senses it coming, pulls her hand away, scoops up her glass. VINCENT It was half a lifetime ago. We were kids... Im married now. Shes cold for the first time ever. SAM But for how long? He resents that. She sips her drink, exhales heavily. SAM Im sorry. VINCENT No, its me - I mislead you. never should have come. She takes his hand. SAM Ive seen her. (Off his look) Sarah - your brothers wife - is both of our friend - shes posted pictures on her page. Hes lost. SAM I know: you dont use it. Some people from school I barely even remember invited me as their friend... I guess I was just hoping you were happy. VINCENT Wait: Inka uploads pictures of herself all over the internet? She sighs. VINCENT Im stupid. Whatever. SAM My point was just that shes beautiful - Id understand you wanting to stay with her, hope things improved... It hurts him. He pushes it away. I

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VINCENT I would ask just how much Sarahs been saying, but I think Id prefer to change the subject. (Beat) Youve hardly changed by the way. SAM Thanks. You too... aside from... (motions her hair) But it suits you. VINCENT So what are you doing with yourself nowadays? Do you have kids? SAM A girl. Shes nine - looks like her dad (poor thing). (Beat) Im a florist. He looks at her... The BACKGROUND WARPS, BECOMES A FIELD OF DAISIES. gently back into them... BACK TO REALITY. She wonders what hes thinking. She falls

VINCENT Divorce scares the shit out of me. I dont care about the house, what little money we have... Im worried about losing my kids. SAM We never married. Abigail lives with me one week and him the next. VINCENT Thats got to be... unsettling. SAM I didnt like it at first either, but being a single mum is hard work. At least this way Im a semisingle mum. (Beat) Shes at his tonight. Vincent bites his bottom lip. She laughs nervously. SAM I didnt quite mean it like that...

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EXT. BUS STOP - NIGHT Vincent and Sam are alone at the bus stop. VINCENT Are you sure you dont want a taxi? SAM Its only two stops. VINCENT Then let me see you get home okay. SAM Youre asking if you can take me home? He sees her point, lets it slide. She holds her hand out to stop the bus. SAM Well, it was nice... VINCENT Well have to do it again some time - only next time, Ill buy. She locks his eyes. She leans in, kisses his lips softly. The bus comes to a halt alongside them; the doors open. SAM Id like that. She steps onto the bus. SAM Ring me. The bus pulls away. He feels his lips... shock fades, a grin replacing it. INT. DAVES FLAT - LIVING ROOM - DAY Daves all ears. VINCENT She kissed me. DAVE No way. Vincents stunned by the memory. DAVE So youre seeing her again...? Hes frozen.

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VINCENT Well, I mean: it wasnt a kisskiss, but... (guilt) I havent kissed another girl in over six years... Dave goes over to the computer, clicks the mouse around. Vincent looks at him, bewildered. DAVE Ive got a song for you. VINCENT Come on... DAVE Okay, Im a big fan, so listening to this bloke singing about women cheating and fantasising over other men for albums on end gave this track a massive meaning for me... Cakes Mustache Man begins to play. speakers. Dave cranks up the

DAVE But think of all the shit youve put up with - all those times shes told you No... Vincent complies. The lyrics kick in... FADE TO: INT. RESTAURANT - EVENING Vincent beside a 30-something woman at the table. She acts like theyre together. He accommodates, strokes her hand. Her friends - all couples - flank them. INT. PUBLIC HOUSE - EVENING VERONICA, 25, lovely-looking, casual yet breathes wealth, laws down the law VERONICA Lets get this straight: I didnt hire you because Im sad, desperate or like the power-trip of paying for sex. In fact, Im never going to ask you for sex. Vincent nods along like a good dog.

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VERONICA Its my cousins wedding, my ex is the grooms Best Man and where I could just ask anyone to accompany me, I need a certain type in order to make him jealous. VINCENT (V.O.) Veronica. My third gig. It feels more like a job interview... only Im paid. VERONICA I liked your profile, you seemed witty yet real. The best looking guys tend to be idiots - its the same with girls, I know - but its true. You look like the type I go for. I need someone who can talk about football, knows of Noam Chomski, has a tactile, political opinion regarding the Middle-East and can pretend that 1984 is his favourite novel. (Beat) Are you that man? VINCENT Newspeak, Thought-crimes... hell, 1984 is my favourite novel! She clicks her fingers. VERONICA I could kiss you. (Beat) If this all works out nicely, pretend to be hurt when I dump you. INT. FLOWER SHOP - DAY No customers. Sam holds her phone to her ear...

SAM (INTO PHONE) Hey, listen: theres this new romantic-comedy INTERCUT: PHONE CALL INT. VINCENTS PARENTS - VINCENTS ROOM Vincent sits at his desk with the laptop open, phone to ear.

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VINCENT (V.O.) Romantic-comedy? How about something less painful? And with more gunshots. VINCENT Id love to but Im working tonight. SAM Oh. (Beat) So you found a job...? Thats great - what are you doing? VINCENT Just some bar work - its not regular but when they call, I cant turn it down. SAM Oh, okay. Well anyway, if you fancy the film some time... VINCENT (V.O.) Whyd I lie to her, its not like Im a whore or anything... VINCENT Definitely. She perks up, walks over to some flowers, straightens them. SAM Cool, so Ill just wait for you to bell me then... (Realises how it sounds) Um, kind of. He ends the call. END INTERCUT.

He goes back to reading on the laptop. VINCENT (V.O.) I tell myself that I love my wife but more often than not, its like Im reminding myself of remembering how I used to love her. He picks up the cordless house phone, punches in numbers... INTERCUT: PHONE CALL EXT. CHILDRENS OUTDOOR PLAY AREA - FINLAND - DAY Inka, kitted out for the weather, answers her mobile.

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INKA I get it: you miss us. VINCENT You knew I would. Hows everything? Panu and Amelia are in swings, she pushes them. Fine. INKA Were outside now AMELIA Onks isi? INKA (TO AMELIA) On. (Into phone) She wants you. Inka stops Amelias swing, hands her the phone. face lights up. Vincent listens, longing. Inka takes the phone back from Amelia. INKA (INTO PHONE) Okay, I wont make you waste your mums phone bill. VINCENT Ill pay them back. (Beat) You sound like youre in a good mood... Inka pushes Amelias swing. INKA It happens - Im not as moody as you believe. He only wishes it were true. VINCENT So youre fine without me? She takes a moment... like shes struggling with the words. INKA They miss you, but were okay. VINCENT Do you miss me? Amelias

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INKA Sometimes. Listen: you dont have to call every day. VINCENT I like to hear your voice... I miss you. INKA I know. He waits quietly for more. She pushes the swings, phone to her ear... trouble expressing herself despite the years together. VINCENT Well, Ill let you focus on the kids then. I love you. The words choke her. INKA How about next time, I ring you? VINCENT When? I promised Amelia wed talk every day. INKA I know, but it doesnt feel like such a break when were always on the phone... It cuts him. VINCENT Ill let you explain to her tomorrow then why I didnt ring. Inka looks at Panu, hat over his eyes and Amelia, content as she swings. Inka misses him but just cant say it. INKA See you then. VINCENT Yeah, bye. I love you. (A moment) You can say it, you know? She pushes the swings, distancing herself.

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INKA I know. The phone goes dead in his hand. Hes unconvinced.

INT. VINCENTS PARENTS - LIVING ROOM - DAY Vincent and his dad tuck into home-made food before the TV. Dave enters, the only difference between his work clothes and ordinary ones is dust. VINCENTS DAD Dave, not seen you for a while! Have a seat. Dave sits beside Vincent. VINCENTS DAD Hows everything? DAVE Good, good. Vincents Dads satisfied, gets back to his food. DAVE (TO VINCENT) Thought Id pop by - its on the way home from work. You working yet? VINCENT Let me finish this and well go up. INT. VINCENTS PARENTS - VINCENTS ROOM - DAY Dave and Vincent enter. Daves eager for an update.

DAVE Have you seen her again? Vincent shushes him, closes the door. Dave awaits his answer. VINCENT No. DAVE Are you a fucking mug or what? What about Mustache Man, bedding the bitches? VINCENT I cant be arsed.

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DAVE Bullshit. (Beat) Dude, I know you have your kids already and all, but your dick still has a role to play in this lifetime. Vincent sits on the bed, something on his mind. VINCENT I joined an escort agency. Dave almost shits. It takes a moment for the questions How

DAVE You fucked any rich birds yet? much do they pay?

VINCENT Its really not like that. Its a legitimate escort service, just as advertised DAVE Bo-ring. VINCENT So being paid eighty pounds an hour for women to buy you food and drinks is worse than sorting letters in a post office factory? Sounds like Heaven to Dave. DAVE Is it regular work? VINCENT Really not. Itd make a nice second income though. Dave mulls it over. DAVE Does Inka know? Vincent is cagey. VINCENT So far nobody knows - and youre going to keep it that way. DAVE But if youre not whoring yourself, whats to be ashamed of?

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VINCENT Because... its, well, stigmatic. (Beat) Hello, Im Vincent, a male escort. Dave sees his point. DAVE So what are you telling the oldies youre doing. VINCENT Bar work. DAVE So youre lying to your folks? VINCENT This is serious, Darth-nerd DAVE Ouch. VINCENT Sorry... DAVE Been a while since anyone called me that... VINCENT Yeah, yeah. (Beat) I have another gig in a couple of hours. DAVE Whats she look like? Vincent shrugs. For real? dates? DAVE Theyre like blind

VINCENT If you want to put it like that... DAVE So what if one does ask for extras...? VINCENT Three dates down and so far it seems like a myth...

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DAVE But if one does? VINCENT Then Id have to disappoint her. DAVE Even if shes hot? (Off Vincents look) Youve been bitching for two years about Inka not giving you any... VINCENT Ive gotten used to it. DAVE Bullshit! Id be fucking the first bird who offered me any - and if she wanted to pay me to do it... VINCENT I can fabricate, write a fantasy TV drama based very loosely on my life. DAVE Tell me youre not thinking about fucking Sam. VINCENT Im not. DAVE Maybe not right now, but Inkas there, youre here, on a break... Vincent doesnt like the new angle - worse: he knows he cant deny it. DAVE It could even be over for you two. Heed the lyrics, man, dont waste another second! VINCENT Is sex all you ever think about? DAVE And Star Trek, and computer games... (Beat) Whod you fuck most if Tekken was real? Vincent sighs, amused.

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DAVE You fancy coming round Friday for a kung fu film festival? VINCENT Definitely. INT. VINCENTS PARENTS - BATHROOM - DAY Vincent spits out toothpaste, rinses his mouth. He dries his hands... an idea... He keys text into his phone Im off to work soon. you... Just wanted to remind you that I love CUT TO: Vincent in the shower. He turns the tap off.

He pats his face dry, checks his mobile... His face says it all. INT. TUBE TRAIN Vincent sits, rush hour over. He checks his phone... is disappointed. INT. THAI RESTAURANT - EVENING Vincent enters, a waitress greets him. He speaks to her inaudibly, scouts the place out A few couples, but mainly empty. In the corner -

A BEAUTIFUL WOMAN, late 20s, watching him... Vincent: wow. But then, what man wouldnt think that?

She waves him over. He lets the waitress know where hes at; she BOWS, cheesy. Vincent approaches the table, the Beautiful Woman stands, hand outstretched. He takes it. BEAUTIFUL WOMAN/RUBY Ruby.

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VINCENT Um, Vincent. They sit. Beautiful Woman - Ruby from this point on signals the waitress over. Inaudibly, Ruby places an order. The waitress moves away.

Vincent cant take his eyes off of Ruby. Shes aware of it, but finds it cute. RUBY So, Um-Vincent, you forgot your name tag. Hes stumped. RUBY A mauve shirts pretty common - I figured youd come with some kind of hat or flower on your lapel for me to recognise you by. VINCENT Your first time hiring? She checks nobody heard, remains confident nonetheless. RUBY Your first date? Or am I so different from your usual? (Off his look) Um... Vincent. I was kind of expecting savoir faire. Ruby. My a Stanley stunning, We hit it VINCENT (V.O.) fourth gig. Sharper than knife, confident, a wry sense of humour. off instantly.

INT. MENS ROOM - NIGHT Vincent pisses. VINCENT (V.O.) She said she lives in France, was over for the week - her dads ill. Last night in town and she wanted to let her hair down, lose the sombre milieu of the trip... He zips up, washes his hands.

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VINCENT (V.O.) But none of her mates could make it. He towels his hands on a roller device. VINCENT (V.O.) She earns enough, so thought, Fuck it. It was an escort or stay home... though I wonder why a girl like her couldnt just find company... He checks his mobile... nothing. VINCENT (V.O.) Or maybe thats the point: perfection attracts a million arse holes hoping for a piece. He exits into INT. NIGHTCLUB - CONTINUOUS Some arse-hat tries his luck with Ruby. interested. VINCENT (V.O.) My case in point. Vincent cuts in between Ruby and Arse-hat, earns a protest cut short by Ruby handing Vincent his drink. Arse-hat stares him down, backs off, fades into the crowd. Ruby gives Vincent a smile which doesnt hide their attraction... he places an arm around her waist - the flirtings at the touchy stage. The music changes - something she likes! inaudibly that they dance. She suggests Shes not

He makes to decline but she pulls on his arm... he canes his drink, lets her lead him onto the Dance floor: Vincents terrible. But shes a muse on fire. In heat!

Other men check her out, jealous girlfriends pout. Vincents enraptured, doesnt even dance any more, only watches. Ruby rubs up against him, full-on dance flirting. Their faces press together, eyes locked. He moves his hands onto her body, wants her!

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She flaunts a kiss, holds his eye, dares him to make a move... The MUSIC CHANGES: Cakes Mustache Man... Vincent accepts the challenge, kisses her, passion turns feral, them ready to get down to it there and then. Theyre off the dance floor, in a corner, kissing unabated, she pulls away to whisper in his ear RUBY I never thought Id ask this... you do extras? RECORD SCRATCHES! THE SONG CUTS OUT. Do

VINCENT Im not a prostitute. Shes confused, a little embarrassed. Extras? VINCENT (V.O.) Hell, Id pay her!

VINCENT That doesnt mean I wont go beyond the call of duty. She smiles, kisses him some more. FADE TO: On black: Cakes Mustache Man plays again - I have wasted/So much time INT. HOTEL ROOM - NIGHT Vincents fucking Ruby for all hes worth! INT. DAVES FLAT - LIVING ROOM - EVENING Hands set down a spindle of burnt-off discs - must be 100. Vincent picks up the spindle, takes a few discs off to look through. Dave has his hands behind his back. DAVE All my Donnie Yens and Jacky Wus are right there, along with the Tony Jaas... Or... He pulls a DVD case from behind his back - Alien Versus Ninja.

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DAVE The most kick-arse film in recent years. VINCENT Better than Ip Man? For Dave, its a tough one... DAVE A different kind of kick-arse. Vincent signals to put it on. Dave loads the disc Vincent cracks open a beer, content. Dave sits beside him on the sofa, controller and wine bottle, pours himself a glass. VINCENT I had sex last night. Huh? Thats gotten Daves attention. VINCENT Oh, man, she was so fucking hot... DAVE The client? Vincent nods. Damn, hes smug by the memory.

DAVE Did she pay you? VINCENT If youd have seen her, you wouldnt have to ask that. DAVE A freebie? Isnt that like - I dont know - unprofessional? VINCENT Im an amateur, fine me. Dave signals a toast. They touch glass-to-beer can.

DAVE So what about Inka? That took the gloss off Vincents coating. Dave knows not to repeat himself. on the controller. Awkward, he presses play

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VINCENT Mustache Man. I got caught up in the moment. DAVE Great fucking lyrics! (Signals another toast) To more moments. Vincent has trouble committing to it... but does. VINCENT Fuck it, Im sick of being rejected, waiting around wondering if shell ever want me back. DAVE So when are you meeting Sam? Vincent hasnt even thought about it... and thinking about it makes him uneasy. DAVE Oh come on, youve taken the step... VINCENT That was different... DAVE How? You fuck her, you enjoy yourself. Party on, Garth. VINCENT Ruby was just something that happened - it was unplanned, there were no strings... DAVE Then tell her its just for old times sake - something youve always regretted. Vincent shakes his head. up... Dave sighs, hits pause. He gets

Rummages through his computer desk drawer... He sits down next to Vincent... DAVE Here: a present. Dave hands Vincent a tray of pills. DAVE Viagra. Vincents lost.

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VINCENT Nothing wrong with my meat, mate. DAVE Idiot, theyre like sex toys theyll keep you up all night, make you a number one fucking gigolo! Vincent tries to hand them back. VINCENT No more extras. Dave wont take them - hes adamant. DAVE I pop them when Im in Amsterdam nothing like a rock hard cock to take away the anxiety of knocking on a window. (Off Vincents look) They stand behind windows... (Beat) Never mind. Just take one before your next date with Sam, let your penis guide you... Vincent stares at Dave, Are you for real? Dave is. He drinks his wine.

Vincent sticks the tablets in his back pocket. VINCENT Thanks. I suppose. (Beat) Now: are we watching this film or not? INT. TUBE TRAIN - EVENING Vincents dressed up in a jeans-shirt date combo. He checks his phone... nothing. Hes bummed out by it.

EXT. SWANKY TOWNHOUSE ROAD - EVENING A man walking a dog points directions for Vincent. EXT. SWANKY TOWNHOUSE - EVENING Vincent rings the door bell.

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It opens, reveals... an OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN in a kimono-type dressing gown. Shes dolled herself up for company. Vincents immediately uncomfortable. VINCENT Im Vincent, from Twos Company. OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN Please, come inside. She steps aside and he enters INT. SWANKY TOWNHOUSE - CONTINUOUS The light in the hallway bespeaks nothing unusual. Overweight Middle-aged Woman (OWMAW) closes the door, paws at his back. OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN Let me take your coat. He backs away from her She ogles him, a game of cat-and-mouse. He shrugs out of his coat, hands it to her. She hangs it up, takes his hand... unhappily, he lets her. OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN Come on into the sitting room, I have it prepared something lovely. Haughtily, she leads him into INT. SWANKY TOWNHOUSE - LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS Candles. Lots of them. night of passion. They light the room ready for a

Vincent stares from the doorway. VINCENT (V.O.) What... the fuck? OWMAW tugs his hand gently. He wont budge.

OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN Oh come on, baby, dont be shy. He pulls his hand free.

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VINCENT I think theres been some kind of mistake... OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN Oh nonsense, Ive used your agency before. Thats surprised him. She runs a hand along the front of his shirt. OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN Come, lets sit, have some wine and discuss your rate. Vincent backs out of the room INT. SWANKY TOWNHOUSE - CONTINUOUS She follows, matches him step for step. VINCENT The agency sets the rates, Im just sent for company, nothing else. Coy. OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN I like that.

She pins him against the wall, game for cock. OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN Everybody has a price... whats yours? He tries to duck under her arms - she doesnt let him Her hand cups his balls. Hes shocked. She kisses his lips.

OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN Mmm, I like you... He shoves her away from him. Her turn to be surprised. He wonders if he over-stepped the mark... VINCENT Sorry, are you OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN Kinky, are we?

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She goes back at him, he skirts out of reach, edges towards the front door. VINCENT Look: I really dont offer any extras? She reaches inside her gown, rubs at herself. OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN Mmm, Im so hot for you right now. He makes a bee-line for his coat She wraps her arms around him from behind, he wriggles to get loose She drops to her knees, rubs her face around his butt. He almost falls against the wall evading her. She stays down, hungry - starving - begging... OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN Oh God, please, just let me suck your cock. Vincent slides his coat on, miffed at the sight of her. OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN Please, I cant help it, I love sucking cock - Ill pay you a hundred if you let me suck your big dick. VINCENT (V.O.) A hundred pounds? And thats it: she sucks my dick? OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN One-fifty. I have cash in the living room. He thinks about it. She has him on the ropes and knows it. OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN Money first. Dont worry, babe, I wont try to cheat you... She gets up, reaches out for his hand... He doesnt resist. Shell-shocked, in over his head, he allows her to lead him back into the -

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INT. SWANKY TOWNHOUSE - LIVING ROOM - EVENING OWMAW counts out three fifties from her purse. She places them in Vincents hand, rubs his balls. He looks at the money; she licks his neck, goes to kiss him. VINCENT You never said anything about kissing... She reaches back to the cash, takes another note. She shoves the fifty in his hand with the rest. OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN Happy now? She puts her tongue in his mouth before he can answer. Her hands go under his shirt, rub at his body. belt loose with her tongue still in his mouth. She works his

He tries to get into it, nibble her ear - she PURRS in ecstacy. He knocks her hands away, undoes his own belt, the button. She looks down... puts her hand inside his underwear. He yanks her gown open - nothing underneath. breast... shes loving it. He kisses a

Its time. He pushes her down gently by the shoulders, she drops to her knees. C.U. Vincent: he waits. Candles flicker. Ahhh, yeah, thats good.

SLURP, SLURP, SLURP, O.C.

Vincent runs fingers through her hair, grips them tightly, POUNDS AWAY at her face. VINCENT (V.O.) I try to enjoy it, try to rush, try to reason that its the easiest two hundred Ive ever made and Im getting all the pleasure... He tenses up, reddens... C.U. Wine glass. He orgasms O.C.

OWMAW picks up the wine glass, wipes her lips. OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN Yummy.

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She takes a hit off the wine glass. Vincents spent, fixes his clothes, embarrassed. VINCENT (V.O.) Precisely why I never understood one-nighters. Hopefully shell let me escape without fuss - she did pay the minimum three hours for my time, after all. She eyes him over, relishes in his discomfort. OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN Take a seat, have a drink. VINCENT I, um, I should Shes whipped him, is in control now OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN Youll sit down and have a drink, is what you will do. Belittled, he sits. She flops beside him, two glasses, gives him one. She manoeuvres his arm around her large back, snuggles against him. VINCENT (V.O.) At least with one-nighters you can get the fuck out as soon as youre done. She sips her wine, strokes his face. OVER-WEIGHT MIDDLE-AGED WOMAN So, why dont you tell me a little about yourself? INT. TUBE TRAIN - NIGHT Vincent sits, defeated, dirty, drained. BLEEP, BLEEP, O.C. He takes out his mobile I love you. Sender: Inka

Im going to bed now.

That really makes him feel like shit. EXT. VINCENTS PARENTS - NIGHT Vincent quietly turns the key in the lock, opens the door.

57.

INT. VINCENTS PARENTS - HALLWAY - CONTINUOUS All the lights are off, he sneaks in, careful not to make noise. He kicks his shoes off, takes off his coat. INT. VINCENTS PARENTS - BATHROOM - NIGHT Vincent spits toothpaste. He rinses his mouth.

He unsrews the cap of a bottle of mouth-wash, takes a hit. He gargles, looks at himself in the mirror. VINCENT (V.O.) Would this make for a good drama? That inner voice tells me to get out now, stick to writing action, go nowhere, let the dream die, return to my wife and speak bad Finnish in a mindless job I hate for the next thirty years until I can retire. He spits the mouth-wash out, looks back into the mirror. VINCENT (V.O.) All this time Ive thought it was Inka who was depressed, when in truth, it was both of us. INT. VINCENTS PARENTS - VINCENTS ROOM - NIGHT Vincent places the two hundred down on the computer desk. undresses by the light of the moon and lamp posts coming through the curtains. He gets into bed, arms behind his head, in thought. C.U: The two hundred in cash. He