1.

HOTEL WEST

written by:

Kailey Murphey
 2.

Character List (in order of appearance):

Carrie
Sam
Eric
Amanda
Gretchen
Mark
Marley
David
Bell Hop
Front Desk Man
Barista
Businessman
Shane
Mother
Tour Guide

Old Man
Old Lady

Instructor
Waiter

Worker
Tracy

Cabbie
Sarah

Ella
Andrew

August
 3.

Erin

Cara
 4.

FADE IN:

1 INT. OFFICE - MORNING 1

A big, blue neon 'Due North' sign hangs from the red brick
wall. The office is decked out in holiday decor. From a tiny
Christmas tree to at least four dreidels of varying sizes.
CARRIE, a 50-year-old woman with 80s blonde hair and a red
sweater dress walks from the coffee station to a cubicle,
liquid sloshing in the cup.

CARRIE
(sing-songy)
Good morning!

SAM whirls in her spinning chair to face Carrie, who always

seems to have the same amount of energy as Sam after three
cups of coffee.

Sam rubs her eyes. She checks her watch hidden underneath her
olive blazer. Her outfit is less extravagant than Carrie's; a
simple white blouse and high-rise jeans. Professional meets
Gen Z trendy.

It's 9:15 a.m. Too early for this.

SAM
(yawning)
Morning, Carrie.

CARRIE
Have you heard?

SAM
Heard what?

CARRIE
About the new client?

SAM
Hotel West? I thought we all knew
about that.

CARRIE
Whoever gets assigned the lead on
the Hotel West campaign will get a
promotion if Eric is impressed.

Sam sits straighter in her chair, suddenly much more awake.

SAM
Are you serious?
 5.

CARRIE
(giddy)
Yes! This is your moment.

Carrie makes a rainbow motion with her hands.

SAM
You think I'll get the lead?

CARRIE
I'm not sure but if they ask for
suggestions during the meeting, you
better have some prepared! It's
between you, Kya, or a new hire. Go
get that bag, girl!

Sam chuckles.

SAM
Okay, shoo. I've got to reply to at
least one hundred comments before
this meeting.

CARRIE
My little social media manager, hard
at work. Maybe you'll be the next
Wendy's social media person. God,
their tweets are funny.

SAM
I aspire! I just want to shadow that
person for one whole day. Roasting
the shit out of McDonalds? Yes,
please.
CARRIE
True. It's a miracle they haven't
gotten canceled yet. All hail Your
Majesty Queen Wendys.
Carrie pretends to bow. She leaves the cubicle and runs into
someone else on her way. Sam turns back to her own computer--
Instagram, Tiktok, and Twitter on separate screens-- and
stars typing.

2 INT. CONFERENCE ROOM - MORNING 2

Employees file around the long, black table in the center of
a quaint conference room with glass walls. Modern workplace.
ERIC, a middle-aged man, stands in front of a PowerPoint on a
tv screen wearing a slick black suit, a tie covered in
penguins, and large clear glasses.
 6.

ERIC
Good morning, everyone. By now I'm
sure you all have heard about our
new acquisition, Hotel West. We are
thrilled to partner with such a
strong company and help them take
their brand to the next level.

He flips to the next slide-- deadlines. 2 WEEKS?! Sam looks

around the room, gauging the reaction from the rest of the
team.

ERIC
Now, I know this deadline sounds
tight, but we have to capitalize on
the romanticism of expensive hotels
during the holiday season. There's
something about the charm that nabs
at people's heartstrings. Hotel West
feels that their brand is
encapsulated during the holidays,
and they want us to have a first-
hand look.

Carrie immediately looks to Sam who rolls her eyes. She hates
Christmas.

ERIC
Sam!

She halts all face-making, caught red-handed.

SAM
Yes, sir?

ERIC
I'd like you to take point on this.
Come to my office once we're
finished here and I'll explain
exactly what we need from you.

Carrie grins at Sam.

SAM
Thank you sir.

Eric goes on pointing at the screen while Sam jots notes down
on her notepad.

3 INT. ERIC’S OFFICE - MID-MORNING 3

A fist knocks on a wooden door with the name tag 'Boss Man.'
 7.

ERIC
Come in.

Sam pushes the door open carrying a computer, coffee mug, and
yellow notepad.
Eric gestures for her to sit at the chair opposite his
cluttered desk. There are week-old jello cups and stacks of
paper bigger than Sam's head. He has three monitors, all
hooked up to his Macbook sitting on the side closest to his
city-view window.

SAM
First of all, I wanted to say that I
am grateful for this opportunity.

ERIC
Not necessary, Sam. You're the only
one I trust on this account.
SAM
Oh, well, thank you.
ERIC
Now, let's get down to it. You are
going to go down to Hotel West, meet
with the Head of Business
Operations, get a feel of the place,
and make pitches for the campaign.
Questions?
Sam scribbles on her notepad.

SAM
Not right now.
Eric claps his hands together, sealing an invisible deal.

ERIC
Okay, great. You leave Saturday!
SAM
This Saturday? But, that's in two
days!
ERIC
Hotel West wants the first pitch
before the end of the year. They
want something to close out the year
so they can begin advertising the
next holiday season.
SAM
 8.

Should I be creating content while

I'm there? I'll need to communicate
with whoever currently manages their
social media accounts. What kind of
pitch will I be doing?
ERIC
Whatever you want. Look, Sam...
Hotel West is a great acquisition
for us, but they're not our biggest
client. You've done an excellent job
with social for our clients,
especially the Millenial campaign
for Frezze Wine. You know how to get
people to click. I need that kind of
mind on the Hotel West account. I
trust your gut feeling. Obviously,
you'll run everything past me, but I
want you to know that you have
freedom with this. Be creative.

Sam is diligently jotting down notes.

ERIC
And Sam--

She looks up.

ERIC
--you might want to start doing some
research in the next few days before
you go. Get an understanding of
their brand before you get there, so
you know what you're working with.
SAM
Got it, boss.
Eric shoos her out the door. Sam collects her things, stands
up, and walks out of the office, shutting the door on her way
out. Once her back is turned, she smiles.

4 EXT. INDIANAPOLIS STREETS - DAY 4

Sam waits outside a tall building with a glass revolving
door. Dozens of people in business attire leave the building
with briefcases and bags. One woman shouts into her AirPods.
A man tries to maneuver around her, but Phone Woman is
frantically pacing. He looks up at the sky, praying to God
for his sanity, then finally swerves enough to make his way
around.
 9.

A tall ginger, AMANDA, with a side part and a tight black

pencil skirt trudges out of the glass door. Late 20's and
always exhausted from her accounting job.

AMANDA
UGHHHHHHH...
SAM
Not good?
AMANDA
No.
SAM
Want to talk about it?
AMANDA
Nope.

SAM
(nods)
Got it.
They head down the sidewalk together in silence for a while
before Sam looks at her friend.
SAM
Sooooo...
AMANDA
Oh my god what?
SAM
You really did have a bad day.

AMANDA
Sorry. You've been looking over at
me like you want to say something
for the last five blocks.

SAM
Something very interesting happened
at work today.
AMANDA
Praise the Lord. I've been waiting
for that boss of yours to get his
head out of his ass.
SAM
I got the Hotel West account! But, I
have to travel down there this
weekend.
 10.

AMANDA
Sam, that's amazing! Congrats. Don't
you ever let my exhaustion get in
the way of your much-deserved
celebration again!
Sam smiles to herself and bumps Amanda's shoulder.

SAM
Thanks, Ames.

5 INT. APARTMENT LIVING ROOM- NIGHT 5

A group of twenty-year-olds hanging out in a colorful

apartment living room. Amanda and GRETCHEN-- an artsy,
tattooed lesbian-- sit on the barstools at the kitchen
counter with a glass of Barefoot Moscato. Sam is in the
kitchen pouring herself a glass of wine. She spills while
staring at MARK cozied up next to his date.
Mark-- think Chris Evans in Knives Out-- and MARLEY-- a tall
blonde who's dressed fancier than the rest of the bunch-- sit
on a purple love seat.
Their place is modestly decorated for the holidays. A
nativity scene, but celebrity faces taped on, sits atop an
evergreen bookshelf.

AMANDA
Sam, you've got to tell everyone
what happened at work!
David hovers over the apartment Christmas Tree neatly
dispersing ornaments. He overhears, immediately stops what
he's doing to listen to the news, mouth dropped wide open.
DAVID
You had news and you weren't gonna
share?
SAM
It just happened today!

DAVID
Still.
He draws out the last letter for far too long.
SAM
You guys know how my company was
working on acquiring Hotel West as a
new client?
 11.

MARK
Yeah.
GRETCHEN
Oh, I used to go there as a kid!

DAVID
No?
SAM
Well, anyway... my boss decided that
I should make our entire marketing
pitch. So, I'm going down to visit
French Lick for the weekend. You
know, scope it out.
MARK
Congratulations, Sam.
SAM
Ugh, except the campaign is supposed
to be all about the holidays. A
Christmas puke-fest.
DAVID
Damn, that's a lot of feelings.

AMANDA
Why don't you just... fake it?
SAM
(sighs)
It's a deep hatred.
MARK
Why don't you take someone with you?
Everyone glances at each other knowingly.

SAM
I think I should just tell Eric to
let someone else take it.

MARK
You won't get another chance like
this. Not for a while at least. I
thought you wanted to get out of the
social media gig.

AMANDA
I think Mark's proposition is
fantastic. You two should go. It
would be funnnn, festive,
(quieter)
 12.

romantic...
Sam gives her major side-eye. David points at Amanda, nodding
in agreement. He reaches into a bin at his feet and grabs a
strand of gold tinsel. He looks at the tree, then the tinsel,
then back at the tree, throws his head in the air, and takes
a deep breath.
DAVID
Can someone come help me?

Simulatenously:
SAM
I can.

MARK
Sure.
They both shrug and get up to help. Mark is taller than Sam
so he starts at the top of the tree and weaves it around.
Mark hands it off to Sam and she wraps it the rest of the way
around the tree. They take a step back to admire their work
of art.
SAM
Anything else?
DAVID
Yeah I just need a few of these
ornaments to be put up.

He points to a small teal box with a collection of twenty or

more ornaments.
DAVID
My back hurts from all this bending
over... can you guys do the rest?
David turns and winks at Amanda.
SAM
My Tom needs a Jerry.
Mark stops in his tracks, confused.
MARK
Uh, what?
SAM
The ornament. It's a set, but I'm
missing the Jerry one.

Mark digs around in the box.

 13.

MARK
Found it.
Sam tries to take it from his hand, but Mark reaches around
her, breathing down on her shoulder, and hooks it to the
branch. When he pulls back, their eyes lock for a brief
moment. There's no room for Jesus between their lips.
Mark clears his throat, pulling away to collect more
ornaments.
MARK
Where is the place again?

SAM
Huh? Oh, somewhere in southern
Indiana.
MARK
Well, it'll be beautiful in the
winter, especially if there's any
snow.
Mark reaches for a beer bottle on the coffee table.

SAM
That means it'll be freezing.
Mark takes a sip of his drink.

MARK
Okay, Scrooge.
SAM
(grumbles)
I just really hate this time of
year.

MARLEY
What's your problem with Christmas?
Mark shoots her a glare.
MARLEY
What? I was just asking.
SAM
It's fine.

Amanda cuts in.

AMANDA
Her family kinda sucked. So,
holidays sucked. How do you
 14.

celebrate a holiday as an adult if

it was never as special and fun as a
kid?
DAVID
Preach!
Sam chuckles.
MARK
You just have to make your own
traditions, start from scratch.
GRETCHEN
I haven't seen my family since I
came out. It's been years. So, I get
it, girl.
Gretchen guzzles an extra-large swig of white wine.
SAM
Thanks. I mean, it's not that severe
and I'm sorry that your family isn't
supportive.
GRETCHEN
It's okay. I spend time with my
girlfriend's family and they're
pretty nice. Great food. Her parents
are from the Philippines!
SAM
Oh shit, that sounds wonderful. I
just had rough, tense holidays that
made it unbearable. The only special
day I ever looked forward to was my
birthday because it was about me and
no one else so nobody was allowed to
be a dick.
MARLEY
My parents are atheists.
Amanda rolls her eyes in obvious rejection of Marley's
contribution to the conversation. Sam sniggers.
DAVID
Who wants to watch The Great British
Baking Show?
MARK
Can I veto?
DAVID
 15.

Straight men don't get a vote. You

get everything all the time. Just
shut up and drink your beer.

Mark chuckles whilst sipping his beer.

AMANDA
David was definitely the child of
parents who should have divorced but
never did for the sake of the kid so
they ended up arguing all the time
so the kid was forced to learn how
to diffuse a situation.
(pause)
Was I close?
DAVID
My parents had a very happy marriage
thank you very much. I just only
enjoy drama if it's about me.
Sam and Amanda both roll their eyes. Marley gets up and pours
a special wine into her glass before sitting closer to Mark.
David furrows his brows and quick glances towards Sam. Her
posture shifts, tenser. She downs the rest of her wine, gets
up to get more.
MARK
Will you grab me another beer while
you're up?
SAM
Sure.
She walks back over and stops where Mark sits on the second
love seat. She hands him the bottle, their hands graze. Sam
sits on the arm of the couch next to Amanda.
AMANDA
My vote is for Explained. They're so
fascinating.
MARLEY
Can we watch a movie? I LOVE
Twilight.

David makes a face of disgust.

DAVID
No one loves Twilight. People love
to hate Twilight.
MARLEY
 16.

Well, I love Bella and Edward.

They're so cute.

DAVID
I refuse.
Sam sighs and pushes herself up from the couch.
SAM
I think I'm going to do some
research for my trip to my room. I'm
pretty tired but I'll see you guys
tomorrow. Mark watches her walk out
of the room.

6 INT. SAM’S BEDROOM - NIGHT 6

Sam's bedroom is lit by a singular cream lamp in the far
corner. Pictures of her and Mark sit on her nightstand.
Hiking, wine tasting... you name it. She smiles at the
picture of both of them holding up a number '1,' dressed in
running clothes with a bib attached to their hips.

Her bedding is gray, an autumn-colored throw blanket rests at

the end of her bed. Sam's room is perfectionist clean.
She slips under the covers with her computer and turns on the
TV to Netflix and plays a movie in the background while her
computer screen scrolls through the Hotel West website. One
screen shows a list of holiday activities, including a drive-
in movie showing of Elf.
Sam grumbles to herself.

A knock on the door.

SAM
Who is it?
MARK
Me.
SAM
Come in.

MARK
Are you okay?
SAM
Yeah. Why do you ask?
MARK
 17.

I know this Christmas thing is

stressing you out, but I wanted to
make sure it wasn't anything else.
SAM
No, I'm fine.
Mark takes a step forward.
MARK
Let me come with you this weekend.

Sam shakes her head, still looking at her computer.

MARK
Come on, it'll be fun! I bet I can
convince you to enjoy Christmas.
SAM
You can't.
MARK
I'll give you $100 if I fail to
convince you of the glory of the
holiday season after this weekend.
SAM
Oh, it's on. You'll never convince
me.
Sam puts out her hand to shake on it.
MARK
When do we leave?
SAM
You know my work isn't going to pay
for you, right?
MARK
You'd do well to remember your best
friend is also a best-selling
author.

SAM
Oh good grief.
Mark glances at the picture of them after the race and smiles
to himself before walking out the door.

7 INT. ERIC’S OFFICE - MORNING 7

 18.

A fresh cup of coffee steams on Eric's desk. Sam walks in,

notepad in hand.
SAM
Hey, Eric? Will you send me the
email of the business representative
that I'll be meeting?
ERIC
Sure. Anything else?

SAM
Yeah, actually. How am I going to
pay for the trip?
ERIC
Just take the corporate card.
Her eyes light up.
A scene flashes in Sam's mind. A purple boa draped around her
neck. Amanda's arm hooked around hers, strutting down the
street while strangers stare, covered head to toe in
designer-- Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Prada...
Record scratch back to reality.
ERIC
I will check the charges when you
get back, so do not even think about
making any outrageous purchases.

The woman wipes a spot of drool from the side of her mouth.
ERIC
Sam? Do you hear me?
She snaps into attention.
SAM
Huh? Oh, yeah, of course boss.

ERIC
Do not make me regret this.
Sam backs out of the office.
SAM
(pointing at Eric)
I'm gonna make you the happiest man
alive.
He continues staring at his computer screen.
 19.

ERIC
Shut the door on your way out!

8 INT. SAM’S CAR - DAY 8

Heavy metal music is blaring. Heads nodding to the be at of
Back in Black by AC/DC. Sam turns down the volume as they
pass through farm country. A horse and buggy cross the road
in front of them. They look at each other, and start
spontaneously laughing.
Mark turns the music up.
MARK
We were almost to the good part!
SAM
It's just respectful, you know. I
don't want to scare away the cows.

MARK
We've only seen three cows.
SAM
That's more than I've ever seen in
my lifetime.
Mark rolls his eyes.
SAM
What?
MARK
Aren't you from Michigan?
SAM
So?
MARK
You don't have cows in Michigan?

SAM
I lived in the suburbs... not on a
fucking farm!
MARK
Well, we had cows. Smelled like
shit.
SAM
Oh yeah, sorry, I forgot. You're
from buttfuck nowhere.
 20.

MARK
Hey, I happen to like my town.
SAM
Well, I hated mine.
MARK
Always the cynic.

SAM
Liked the town, hated the people.
Which made the town suck ass.
Mark falls silent.
MARK
Sorry.
SAM
It's fine. It's not like I can avoid
talking about my hometown my whole
life. Just gotta role with the
punches, you know?
MARK
Yeah.
A beat.

MARK
It just shouldn't have been like
that for you. You deserve better.
He glances at her with a sorrowful expression. She frowns.

9 EXT. HOTEL WEST ENTRANCE - DAY 9

The grand entrance has a row of stairs covered in green
carpet. Dark green garland is wrapped around every
conceivable circular object. The lights, the railing, the
columns of the hotel... you name it.
Fancy cars come and go. A man dressed in a full suit and tie
hands a stack of bills to the valet. Sam and Mark exchange a
look. They are out of their league.
A scrawny boy who couldn't be over the age of sixteen
approaches Mark as they gaze around, taken aback by the
scenery.

BELL HOP
Excuse me. Can I take your bags?
 21.

Sam carries a square luggage, while Mark has two bags thrown
over his shoulders.
MARK
We've got it, thank you.
SAM
Actually, yeah that would be great.
Sam looks at Mark, shrugs why not? He furrows his brows.
Sam hands their bags over to the kid.
MARK
I could have gotten them.
SAM
Toxic masculinity is a plague.

Mark watches reluctantly as the boy places the bags on the

cart and pushes it up the ramp. Sam and Mark are at the top
waiting by the time the bell hop reaches them.
MARK
See.
(whispers)
It would've been faster if we'd just
done it.

SAM
Where's the fun in that? I want the
royal treatment.
Mark rolls his eyes.
BELL HOP
Royalty?
SAM
I was just...
She considers explaining the situation.
SAM
Yeah, nevermind. We can take our
bags the rest of the way.
BELL HOP
Are you sure Miss?

SAM
Pretty sure I can push a luggage
cart.
 22.

The boy makes a face, walks away.

MARK
The kid's just trying to do his job.
SAM
Well, it was condesending.
MARK
Do you feel better now?
SAM
I do, thank you so much for asking.
She slaps him on the chest with the hotel brochure, then
walks through the automatic doors.

Mark just shakes his head and follows.

10 INT. HOTEL LOBBY - CONTINUOUS 10

Marble and quartz columns and floors. Theatre lights hang
from the ceiling. The circular room is filled with families,
old couples, and the exorbitantly wealthy.
MARK
Damn.
SAM
Yeah.
Mark stays with the cart while Sam checks in.
The man behind the counter, stalky and wearing a frilly
blouse, gives her a once over. She checks her phone for the
reservation email, ignoring him.

FRONT DESK MAN

(condescendingly)
How can I assist you sweetie?
He's barely older than her. She brushes it off.
SAM
I am checking in for Sam Moore. I'm
from Due North, the marketing
agency. I am supposed to meet with
the Assistant Head of Business Ops
to get a tour of the hotel.
FRONT DESK MAN
(points to the right)
 23.

The tours are down that way. I can

check you in, but I have no idea who
you're supposed to meet. I just work
the desk.

SAM
Okay.
She retrieves her key card from the man.
SAM
Thanks!
FRONT DESK MAN
Mhm.

She approaches Mark.

SAM
I just had the weirdest interaction
with the guy at the front desk.
MARK
Want me to beat him up?
They head towards the elevator.

SAM
Yeah, right.
MARK
Hey!
SAM
If anyone has a chance of beating
someone up, it's me.

MARK
Oh right, I forgot you took two
months of Tae Kwon Do. And after
weeks of torturous sparring, you
finally got a white belt.
Mark presses the up button; it lights up.
SAM
Haha. Sensai said I was making real
progress before I quit.
MARK
Remind me again why you quit?
SAM
(relucantly)
 24.

'Cause I was shit.

MARK
Exactly.

11 EXT. INDIANAPOLIS - DAY 11

Amanda and Gretchen pass boutqiues and bookstores on the
street.

12 INT. COFFEE SHOP - CONTINUOUS 12

Gretchen opens the coffee shop door. It's a bustling shop

filled with hipster-vibe folks. One wall has a vine
decoration with a neon sign that says 'Seize The Day.'
GRETCHEN
So what is the deal with that friend
of yours?
AMANDA
The deal with Samantha...

GRETCHEN
Yeah, like, with her and your hot
roommate.
AMANDA
Aren't you gay?
GRETCHEN
Doesn't mean I can't find him
conventionally attractive.

AMANDA
Fair enough. Yeah, they're in love.
Gretchen starts laughing. The line moves up, so Gretchen
steps up to order. Amanda follows, then they both step to the
side where a sign reads 'Order Pickup.'
GRETCHEN
Back up. Are they dating?

AMANDA
Of course not. Let me catch you up.
Basically, Mark moved in about two
years ago when we listed a spare
room on Craiglist. Very New Girl.
Anyway, Sam had the biggest crush on
him. They spent a lot of time
together. Watching movies and
 25.

drinking beer, walking to work in

the mornings, everything all the
time. But then Mark started talking
to this girl and everything changed.
I think Sam just stopped trying. She
assumed Mark never felt what she
felt. Then, he broke up with the
girl. Shocker, right? David and I
begged Mark to tell us why, but he
wouldn't say anything. Just that
something came between them. I think
it was Sam.

GRETCHEN
Shit.
AMANDA
I don't even think Mark fully
realized that was what killed his
relationship. Something wasn't
working for him, and it was because
she wasn't Sam.

GRETCHEN
But they haven't done anything about
it?
AMANDA
Too scared.
BARISTA
An iced caramel macchiato for
Amanda.

The barista with large hoop silver hoops and short green hair
places the coffee on the counter to the right.
BARISTA
Iced lavender latte for Gretchen.
Gretchen steps up to grab her coffee.
BARISTA
I like your necklace, by the way.

Gretchen blushes. She touches the purple crystal necklace

dangling low on her chest. She's wearing a cream-colored v-
neck tank, oversized crochet cardigan, and straight-leg
pants.
GRETCHEN
Thanks. I like your... earrings.
Now they're both blushing.
 26.

Amanda elbows Gretchen, teasing her. They walk out the door.

13 EXT. INDIANAPOLIS - DAY 13

Gretchen takes a sip of her drink. She snatches the printed
receipt off of the cup and crinkles it, shoving it in her
pocket.
A beat.
Gretchen cocks her head, then withdraws the receipt from her
flannel pocket. Uncrinkling it, she glares at the bottom
portion. In sharpie, there's a barely legible number written
on the paper. 495-205-8302.
Amanda furrows her brows at her, not understanding what
Gretchen is looking at.
AMANDA
What?
GRETCHEN
I got her number.
AMANDA
Oh, shit! I mean, technically, you
didn't get her number, she gave it
to you. But still.
GRETCHEN
Whatever.
She smiles at the crumpled piece of paper.

14 INT. HOTEL WEST CONFERENCE ROOM - AFTERNOON 14

It's a dark, dim room with a long table but only a few
chairs. Private.
An older man-- white, mid-70's, crotchety-- sits at the end
of the stained oak table.
BUSINESSMAN
Welcome to Hotel West. We are
excited to work with Due North and
have high expectations for the
campaign.
SAM
I have heard so much about Hotel
West. I am excited to not only be
 27.

able to visit in-person but

contribute to the--
The man cuts her off.

BUSINESSMAN
We were upset to hear that Eric
couldn't make it.
SAM
Oh, I wasn't aware that Eric was
supposed to attend these meetings.
As far as I knew, I was the only
representative for this campaign.
BUSINESSMAN
Seeing as Eric is the lead on the
project, we were just unsure why he
chose to send someone so young.
A jab. Sam looks for backup. A man, SHANE, young and
elegantly dressed, sits lip-locked while gazing at Sam.
She sits up straighter.
SAM
I am the most qualified person at
our agency.
BUSINESSMAN
I don't doubt it. But, I'd like
someone a bit more experienced to be
with us when discussing the future
of marketing and public relations
for our company.
SHANE
Well, why don't we just get started
with the meeting now that everyone
is here who will be showing up. I am
sure Samantha is a perfectly
qualified individual.
SAM
It's just Sam, actually.
SHANE
Sam. My apologies.
He smiles at her. She smiles back faintly.
BUSINESSMAN
I am only here to do the
introduction anyway. Shane, you will
 28.

be taking point on this project

which includes communicating with
Miss Samantha throughout her stay,
and beyond. I've already outlined
our goals for the rebrand. Make her
aware of them. Show her around the
hotel; show her what we do here.
The man looks directly at Sam.
BUSINESSMAN
The message we want to get across is
that we make families happy. If you
can take what you see here and
formulate a campaign from that, we
will be quite pleased.
The man looks at Shane, then Sam.
BUSINESSMAN
I have to run to a meeting. Shane,
do make sure she has a pleasant
stay.
SHANE
Will do.
He winks at Sam. The businessman rolls his eyes and leaves
the room.
SHANE
Sorry about him. He can be--
SAM
An asshole?

SHANE
Stubborn.
SAM
Hmm.
SHANE
Look, he's just a busy guy. He got
confused because we were told Eric
would be accompanying you. I am sure
he didn't mean to offend you.
SAM
But why does it matter if my boss is
here since yours is leaving you to
take care of business?
SHANE
 29.

I see your point.

SAM
If it's all the same to you, I need
to meet my friend and go take notes
around the hotel.
SHANE
Let me show you around.
SAM
I am perfectly capable of walking by
myself.
SHANE
Yes, but, you don't technically work
here. Sometimes I sit in the atrium
to do my work and I always hear the
tour guides go by. I can recite the
whole tour by heart.
Shane stands.
SAM
That's fine, I suppose. I just need
to be finished by 6 o'clock. We have
dinner reservations.
SHANE
I can keep it under an hour. Though,
I have a feeling I'll leave you
wanting more.
Sam rolls her eyes.
SAM
One hour.
SHANE
Deal.

15 INT. HOTEL ATRIUM - AFTERNOON 15

The setting sun shines through the windows in the atrium.
Ornaments hang from the balconies of the hotel rooms facing
the inside of the atrium. A giant, Rockefeller Center-sized
Christmas Tree towers inside the dome.
SHANE
Christmas is my favorite time of
year to work here. It is absolutely
stunning. It takes a week to put
together all of these decorations.
 30.

The tree lighting ceremony is one of

my favorite events we host. All of
the happy children, their faces
light up like the tree.
SAM
Is Christmas-time your most
profitable time of the year?
SHANE
Yes. By far. Our attractions are
just more enjoyable when the ground
is covered in snow and the dome is
lit up with Christmas colors. People
come from all over the world to see
our hotel. The polar express is a
favorite with children and families.
SAM
What have you done to advertise it?
SHANE
We let people come to us. We have a
vague online presence, save for a
few travel bloggers we've partnered
with to produce an article about
their stay. Other than that, not
much. It's already been so
successful so far. That's why we
gave marketing over to Due North.
Sam jots in her notebook. Workers hustle past her, setting up
wine glasses on two long, tablecloth-covered tables.

SHANE
Hotel West has a rich history. We've
profited off of word-of-mouth
advertising for so long. It's been
difficult to change our way of
thinking. We know we need it, we
just don't know how.
SAM
That's understandable. I've operated
as the Social Media Strategist for
so long, it's hard to remove myself
from that mindset. But it took me
forever to collect all of the data
and understand which apps work best
for certain industries or clients.
It's more tedious than it seems.
Shane guides her around her atrium, pointing out different
structures and decorations. Sam gawks at the large white
 31.

dome, the steel arches hold up a weird-looking nozzle

chandelier that hangs from the middle of the dome. The
mediterranean-style designs throughout the hotel are
painfully intricate.
SHANE
Sinclair's is our most successful
restaurant, and the highest priced
in the area. They're known for their
magnificant steaks.
Sam's face turns queezy.
SHANE
What? Don't tell me you're, like,
vegetarian or something?
SAM
My best friend used to live on a
farm and he had an attachment to his
cows. They used them for milk rather
than meat. I can't fathom eating
steak after his story about the time
he cuddled with Nancy.
(tsk.)
She shakes her head.
SHANE
Well, there are vegetarian options.
SAM
A lot of people are making the
switch to vegetarian since it has
health benefits and is more
sustainable for the planet. That
would be a good thing to include in
marketing efforts.
Shane frowns.
SAM
Do you mind if I get some pictures
to have for promotional material?
Also, I took the liberty of creating
social media pages for the Hotel so
I will probably use some of the
pictures I take on this trip to
advertise for the holiday season.
Are you all booked out for
Christmas?
SHANE
 32.

We've had a few challenges to

booking this Christmas. Other hotels
across the country have started
doing similar renovations and events
like ours which doesn't help. No one
has our dome, though. And to answer
your first question, no I don't mind
if you take pictures. We have
actually been talking about hiring a
photographer to handle photographs
for the monthly newspapers and guest
brochures. All of those need to be
updated as well.
Sam takes several pictures on her phone. She approaches a
family who is sprawled along one of the golden couches. They
are wearing Christmas-themed pajamas.
SAM
Do you mind if I snap a quick
picture of you guys. It's for Hotel
West's new initiative to create
authentic promotional materials.
What is more authentic than a real
family enjoying this holiday?
MOTHER
Absolutely. If I give you my phone,
will you take a picture for our
Christmas card?

Sam nods.
The children sit on the couch next to the parents and pose.
All of their smiles are bright and wide.
As Sam takes the picture, her expression changes. She wishes
she had family experiences like this.
SAM
Thank you. We greatly appreciate it.
Have a wonderful rest of your stay.
Sam turns back towards Shane, whose jaw is all but dropped.
She smirks.
SHANE
That was impressive.
SAM
Ask... and ye shall receive.
 33.

Shane looks at her with a dazzle of intent in his eyes. Sam

is smiling wide, pleased with herself.
SHANE
Would you like to grab a bite to
eat?
Sam is taken aback. She doesn't know how to respond at first.
SAM
Ummm...
SHANE
I just figured I'd offer since I can
get a discount at the finest dining
in a hundred miles.
SAM
I'm supposed to go to dinner with my
friend tonight. He did me the favor
of tagging along on this trip, the
least I could do to repay him is
take him out to dinner.
SHANE
This friend of yours is...
SAM
Purely platonic.
SHANE
You sure?
Sam nods.
SHANE
Okay, well the offer still stands if
your friends decides to skip town
anytime soon.

SAM
Thanks.
Sam smiles, appreciative. She turns in the other direction,
back facing Shane. Her face shows contemplation. Just when
she starts to walk away, she whirls around.
SAM
Actually...
SHANE
Yeah?
SAM
 34.

I'm available tomorrow night.

SHANE
Yeah?
SAM
Yeah.

Sam bites her lip, blushing.

SHANE
It's a date.
Full-blown facial tomato. She backs away, planting one foot
and spinning around. When we see her face, she's grinning
wide.
Shane walks in the opposite direction, proudly nodding to
himself. He glides a hand over his slick dark hair.

16 INT. HOTEL LOBBY- SUNSET 16

Orange sun rays beam through the stained glass windows,
outline the angels at the top in a makeshift halo.
Sam, Mark, and one old couple are on a tour.

The TOUR GUIDE is a short lady with dainty fingers and an

Indiana Landmarks polo tee.
TOUR GUIDE
As you can see, there are some
interesting fixtures built into the
ceiling here. These are actually
stage lights. In the 80's, Northwood
College resided here when the hotel
was bankrupt. That spot right over
there was their theatre department.
OLD MAN
When did Indiana Landmarks take over
again?
MARK
(whispers)
This guy's asking questions like
there's gonna be a quiz at the end.

Sam and Mark giggle, leaning into each other.

TOUR GUIDE
Indiana Landmarks gained possession
of the land, and the building, in
 35.

the early 90's and renovated the

entire hotel within a year. In fact,
3.5 million pounds of steel was used
in the rebuilding process.
OLD MAN
Wow.
OLD LADY
Why is there one angel with
different hands?
The old woman, cute as a button and just as short as the tour
guide, points to the stained glass angel farthest from the
group.

TOUR GUIDE
Now that is a good question. If you
look extremely closely, you will
notice that there are four identical
windows, and four different ones.
This is due to a robbery that
happened while the Jesuits lived
here. One of the original windows
was obtained at an antique store
years later and used for an artist
to replicate the other four. The
artist wanted to make a distinction
by creating one angel facing her
hands outward.
MARK
You can hardly tell the difference!
He's egging the lady on, encouraging her to go on.
TOUR GUIDE
It is marvelous, isn't it. He was a
very talented man. It's a shame that
the others were never recovered,
though. They were nearly one hundred
years old. Irreplaceable.
Sam nudges Mark's arm, ushering him to lean down to hear her.
SAM
(whispers)
Clearly they were somewhat
replaceable.
The two start giggling again. The old couple glances at each
other. They exchange a knowing smile.
OLD MAN
 36.

How long have you two been together?

Sam looks at the old man, then Mark, then back at the man,
confused.

SAM
Us?
The old man pretends to look around as if there is anyone
else he could possibly be speaking to.
OLD MAN
Yes, you!
SAM
Oh, we're not together.
OLD LADY
Bullshit.
OLD MAN
Karen!
OLD LADY
What, it is! Did you see the way she
looked at him?

At this, Sam and Mark's eyes both go wide in shock. Their

faces are red.
OLD MAN
See, now look what you did. They're
embarrassed. You can't go around
forcing youngin's to get together.
Maybe they're gay!
Tension relieved. Mark and Sam laugh it off, awkwardly.
SAM
Noooo we are not...
MARK
I'm not...
SAM
...gay. Well, sometimes...

MARK
(firmly)
No, I am a straight man.
(tentatively)
Except for that one time in college,
I guess that was kind of... um...
 37.

Everyone goes silent. Even Sam stares in disbelief.

Sam clears her throat.
SAM
Well, that was a lot to unpack. But
to answer your question, no we are
not together. Just friends. We live
in the same apartment.
MARK
With roommates.
He points to Sam, not letting her miss a single detail and
confuse the elderly.
SAM
Exactly.
OLD LADY
Yeah, yeah yeah. We've heard it all.
My granddaughter was "best friends"
for years with some guy she met in
Astronomy class. They used to set
each other up on double dates and
everything.
A beat.
OLD LADY
They just celebrated their second
wedding anniversary.
Mark sneaks a look at Sam. Up and down. He looks away before
getting caught.

The old couple sees all.

17 INT. HOTEL ROOM - NIGHT 17

Sam throws her purse on the desk chair and plops on the bed.
She sighs with relief, slipping her Doc Martens off before
letting her feet touch the covers. The clock reads 6:00pm.
SAM
My feet are killing me! I did not
think that through.
MARK
Just keep those dogs away from me.
She purposely shoves them in his direction. He pushes her and
she falls off the bed. Not hard, but enough to incite
 38.

violence. Sam climbs back on the bed and starts pretending to

throw punches in the air at Mark. He pretends to dodge them.
Then, he wraps his arms around her waist and tackles her.
She falls next to him. They both lay still, afraid to break
the tension.
Sam bounces off the bed and walks over to the table near the
bathroom. She picks up the room service menu and rubs her
chin like a beard.
MARK
You don't want to get a meal
downstairs?
SAM
I'm tired tonight and I have a few
ideas churning. I need to take notes
and sort through my thoughts. They
don't even have social media
platforms.
MARK
You know social media isn't
everything.
She looks at Mark with murder on her mind.
SAM
Yes, I know. But, in today's ad age,
it's a good start. Did you notice
how many families are here? They
need to capitalize on the "special"
aspect of the hotel. It's a place to
get away, to spend a holiday or
anniversary. It's not someplace you
stop as you pass through. It's a
destination.
Mark gets up and takes the menu from her hand.
MARK
Maybe we should order food before
you get too into this. I'm starving.

SAM
That's fine. Will you call and order
me a-
MARK
Veggie cheeseburger with tomato and
onions. No lettuce because--
SAM
 39.

It'll get soggy.

She smiles down at her notepad.
MARK
Want dessert too?
SAM
Can we wait to order dessert until
later?
MARK
If you're going to order the
strawberry cheesecake, we can always
put it in the fridge for later. I'm
going to go ahead and order it now
so we have it on hand when you get
hangry.
SAM
I do not get hangry.
MARK
That is such a lie, and you know it.
Not two days ago you tried to beat
me up because I ACCIDENTALLY ate
your leftover pasta.
SAM
Because that's my favorite pasta on
the planet. I spent all day thinking
about it.

MARK
It really was an accident. I said I
was sorry.
SAM
(teases)
Whatever.
When he looks back at her, a mock sad expression on his face,
she laughs.
Mark picks up the hotel phone.
Sam returns to jotting notes.
You can hear a muffled voice on the other end.
MARK
Hi, yes, can we get a veggie
cheeseburger with tomatoes and
onions please?
 40.

(a beat)
No, no lettuce.
(another beat)
No, just the tomato, onion and
cheese. Fries on the side. Make sure
there's ample ketchup too.
Mark glances at Sam to make sure it was correct and she gives
him a THUMBS UP.

18 INT. HOTEL ROOM - LATER 18

Mark and Sam are in the midst of eating their dinner. Sam's
work is spread all over the bed, but she has pushed them
aside to eat. Her plate rests on her legs.
Mark sits next to her with a ceramic bowl full of pasta.
MARK
How's your burger?

SAM
Fucking delicious.
MARK
Really?
SAM
Best burger I've ever had.
MARK
Including when you ate meat?
SAM
Yeah. Shit slaps.
Mark nods, impressed.
SAM
How's your pasta? What even is it?

MARK
It's a spaghetti dish with pesto and
sun-dried tomatoes. It's pretty
fucking fantastic.
Both are completely engrossed in their food.

19 INT. HOTEL ROOM - NIGHT 19

Sam paces the floor, tapping a pen against her jaw. The notes
are more organized across the desk. Sam's computer is open,
 41.

split screen between Word and Excel.

MARK
What are you doing?
SAM
Thinking.
MARK
Well, you're thinking is getting in
the way of my tv watching.
SAM
I'm just trying to do my job. What
are you doing?
MARK
Enjoying my vacation.
SAM
For you it's a vacation, for me it's
homework.
Mark turns off the tv. He pats next to him on the bed.
MARK
Here, sit. Tell me your ideas. Maybe
you could use someone to bounce your
thoughts off of.

SAM
Fine.
MARK
Lay it on me.
SAM
For starters, I want the whole
message of the campaign to be
"unique." This place is full of fun
activities, good food, cool
architecture, and unique history.
I'm thinking branded social media
accounts featuring bloggers and
travel influencers. A website that
helps people identify what to do
here based the purpose for their
trip. Everyone is different so
everyone's experiences should be
catered to them. The overall vibe
I'm going for is champagne. Bubbly,
expensive, romantic, luxurious...
Unless all of that sounds like shit.
 42.

MARK
It sounds great!
SAM
You think?
MARK
There's a lot of people that would
come if they saw some stuffy
influencer endorsing it.
SAM
True. Hopefully we could partner
with authentic influencers, though.
MARK
What are the plans for tomorrow?

SAM
Tomorrow is fun day!
MARK
Why?
SAM
We are going on activity dates.
Skeet shooting, the Polar Express,
visiting the French Lick Hotel and
Casino... all the cutesy holiday
bullshit they have during December.
MARK
Keep an open mind. I'll make it a
good time. I promise.
SAM
You will try.
MARK
I will succeed.

Mark gazes intently. Sam rolls her eyes.

20 INT. HOTEL ROOM - NIGHT 20

Middle of the night. A cot on the floor which sqeakes every
time Mark moves. Sam churns in the bed, frustrated at the
constant noise.
Sam huffs. Mark sighs.
SAM
This isn't working.
 43.

MARK
It's fine.
SAM
I will not be able to sleep if I
hear that noise all night.

A beat. Mark waits for Sam to make the next play.

SAM
Just sleep on the bed.
MARK
Are you sure?
SAM
It's really not a big deal. We
literally live together.
MARK
Yeah, but we don't sleep together.
Mark shakes his head, hitting his forehead in the dark.
SAM
Just get up here.
Mark trudges his blanket and pillow with him. He sets his
pillow on the bed next to Sam, and climbs on top of the
covers. Sam lays beneath them.
Sam's pajamas consist of a t-shirt on top and silk shorts.
Mark wears a big frat shirt and boxers. He pulls the blanket
over his shoulder, faces the opposite direction as Sam, and
lays still.

21 INT. HOTEL ROOM - MORNING 21

The two are entangled when they wake up. They both slowly
pull away, refusing to acknowledge the awkwardness.
Mark clears his throat.
MARK
You want first shower?
SAM
If you're offering, I'll take it.

She crawls out of the covers and walks into the bathroom.
Mark watches her walk away, her shirt covering any hint of
shorts underneath.
 44.

22 EXT. SKEET SHOOTING COURSE - DAY 22

The instructor is a tall, buff man with ripped arm muscles.
He wears polarized sunglasses, a black tee and khaki pants.
He looks like he could audition to play Bear Grylls in the
musical.
Snow covers the open field.It's broad daylight, not a cloud
in the sky. Wooden stands are distanced every several hundred
feet.
INSTRUCTOR
Step up so your leading thigh is
touching the wooden bar.
Sam steps up, planting her left foot forward.

INSTRUCTOR
Okay, now, when you lift the gun, be
sure to place it right here in the
crook between your arm and shoulder.
This will keep it balanced and
secure. It's mostly tissue so the
recoil won't feel as impactful as on
bone.
SAM
Okay.
INSTRUCTOR
Have you shot a gun before?
SAM
Yeah, my dad bought us BB guns when
we were kids. That's the type of gun
I've handled.

INSTRUCTOR
Okay. Just relax, take a deep
breath. In 'n' out. When you're
ready, take a long breath and say
"pull." Hold it until after you've
shot. It will be less shaky. If
you're in between breaths, it'll be
harder to hit the target. Your
boyfriend here will press the button
once you say "pull" and that will
release the clay disk.
Sam and Mark share a glance. Boyfriend. They shrug it off.
The instructor continues without noticing.
INSTRUCTOR
 45.

You've got moments to hit it before

it falls. Try to get it while it
lingers in the air. Not a second
later.

A beat.
INSTRUCTOR
That was a lot of information. Think
you're ready?
Sam nods.
Another couple two stations down gestures for the instructor.
INSTRUCTOR
I've got to go help them. Just wave
if you need me. We play it safe
around here. Never do anything
unless you're 100% confident.
MARK
We're good here, thanks man.
INSTRUCTOR
You've operated a shotgun before
yeah?
MARK
Yes, several times.
INSTRUCTOR
Perfect. If something goes wrong,
holler at me. Otherwise, I think
y'all will be fine.
SAM
Thanks for your help!
The instructor heads in the direction of the other group.
When he walks away, he glances inappropriately at Sam's butt.
MARK
That guy totally checked out your
ass.
SAM
Ew, seriously?
MARK
Yeah. I think I'll take over from
here. I'd rather not bring him back
over here.
 46.

SAM
Okay, so what did he say about
breathing?
Mark steps closer to her. Only a few feet between them.
MARK
Breathe in, aim, shoot, breathe out.
Sam nods.
SAM
(flustered)
I thought he said it would come out
super fast. How am I supposed to
focus my breathing, aim, and pull
the trigger at the same time.
Mark chuckles.
MARK
I know it sounds confusing. We have
a few practice clays so you can try
it, and then we will adjust your
form after.
SAM
Okay...
MARK
Alright, so here's what we're gonna
do. You're going to stand there like
it's just you and the last bird on
the planet. It's flying by and you
gotta kill it to survive. This is
your only chance. Focus up, be
ready. When you say "pull," I'm
going to press the button and you'll
try to shoot the disc. Now,
remember, you have to turn the
safety off before you call pull. Got
it?
SAM
Got it.
Sam moves her feet into position. She leans her left thigh on
the wooden bar, places the gun in the crook of her arm, and
breathes in deep. The only sound is a squawking bird and the
click of the safety going off. In the cold air, Sam's warm
breath is visible.
SAM
(softly)
 47.

Pull.

The orange clay flies from the right. It travels above the
tree line, lingers for a split second, then starts dropping
ever so slightly. Sam pulls the trigger. Too late. She misses
high. The bullet whizzes past the clay.
SAM
Fuck! I missed.
Mark laughs
SAM
What the hell did I do wrong?
MARK
You shot it after it fell. Think
about a rainbow, or like, geometry.
It flies in a half circle. You have
to catch it right at, or before, the
45 degree point. Just when it's
reached the middle of its trip.
Otherwise, gravity will drag it down
to the treeline and you'll lose
sight of it.
SAM
Okay, so like, aim where I think it
will reach the top of the arc?
MARK
Sort of. You kind of want to start
low and follow it. Let the clay
guide you. It's like you're tracking
it through the air until you're like
"gotcha!" When you feel that
satisfying moment when you feel like
you've caught it in a trap, that's
when you shoot.
SAM
Is that why it's called trap
shooting?

Mark frowns. He'd never thought of that before.

MARK
Huh.
SAM
Can I watch you do it as an example?
So I can mirror what you're doing?
MARK
 48.

Sure.
She hands him the gun. While he fixes his stance, Sam picks
up the button. A tease of his muscles slips out when his
shirt sleeve slides up to adapt to holding the gun. Sam
stares for a second longer than she should.
He takes a deep breath.
MARK
Pull.

Sam presses the button.

The clay disc flies through the air. It hits the midpoint.
And shatters.
MARK
Ooooh would you look at that!
Sam rolls her eyes.
SAM
Congratulations.
MARK
Okay, your turn.
SAM
You suck.
MARK
Actually, I--
SAM
Do not finish that...
MARK
That's what she said.
Laughter erupts. Sam has tears in her eyes from laughing so
hard.
SAM
Why are we the same person?
MARK
Same humor.
SAM
So true.
Mark holds the gun out for Sam to take. They switch
positions.
 49.

Sam presses the gun to her shoulder and stands firm. She
takes a deep breath and clicks the safety off.
She pauses. Click. Safety on.
SAM
I'm just not getting the whole
"hanging in the air" thing.
MARK
Okay, so, here I'll just--
He steps up right next to her. She can feel his breath on her
neck. Sam stands perfectly still. Heart beating quicker.
MARK
Is this okay?
SAM
(shaky)
Yes.

Mark places a hand on her left shoulder. His chest rests on

her back. He is completely wrapped around her.
Sam's left eye is squinted shut.
MARK
(whispers)
Eyes open.
When she opens her eye, she glances to Mark. Their faces are
inches apart.
She refocuses on the gun.
He wraps his index finger around hers on the trigger.
MARK
Tell me when.
Sam repeats her process. Breathing, safety, the whole nine
yards.
SAM
Pull.
Mark moves his left hand to press the button.
As the disc flies through the air, he places his hand on Sam
again. The clay lingers.
MARK
(whispers)
 50.

Got 'ya
It happens in slow motion.
Mark's finger squeezing the trigger.
The disc hovering, with a puffy white cloud behind it.
The bullet traveling through the air. Striking its target.

The disc explodes. Pieces shatter.

Sam breathes out.
She looks at Mark, their breaths exchanging between them.
The moment holds perfectly still.
Motion returns.
Sam smiles, her face lighting up. Mark smiles in return.
SAM
I did it! Well, we did it! That was
awesome!!
Mark steps back, his hands sliding off her back.
SAM
I wanna try three more times.

MARK
Why three?
SAM
Because if I don't get it on my own
in three tries, I'm going to cry.
MARK
Oh good lord.
Sam hands the gun to Mark. She shakes out her arms,
stretching exaggeratively. She snatches it back.
She stands strong with the gun tight against her.
SAM
Pull.
Her eyes are laser-focused.

The clay flies. Lingers. Explodes.

 51.

Sam switches off the safety before setting the gun down and
proceeding to do a happy dance.
SAM
Did you see that?
Mark is staring at her. He looks her up and down. Adoration
in his eyes.
Sam stops, noticing his gaze.
SAM
What?
MARK
That was amazing.
They stand there, looking at each other. Basking in their
happiness.
To break the tension, Sam holds her hand up for a high five.
But even the simple touch of hands is loaded with tension.
A montage of the two taking turns shooting. Clays exploding.
Walking between the courses. Celebrations. Pure joy.

23 INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY 23

Amanda and Gretchen sit at a table in the corner. Gretchen
has an iPad, Amanda has a computer. Gretchen has an iced
lavender latte next to her, while Amanda has a pretty latte
with designs on top.
GRETCHEN
How's Sam's trip going?
AMANDA
I'm not sure. She hasn't called, but
she texted me in a panic when she
first got there because the business
guy she had to meet with turned out
to be quite the hottie.
Gretchen frowns.
AMANDA
Should I call her? I wanna know what
happened. I should call her. Let's
call her.
Amanda places the phone in between them on the table. It
rings.
 52.

24 INT. SAM’S CAR - DAY 24

Mark is driving. Sam's phone is ringing in her pocket. Mark
furrows his brows, confused. She presses the green button and
puts it to her ear. Mark turns a knob, lowering the music
volume.
SAM
Hello?
INTERCUT- PHONE CONVERSATION
AMANDA
Sam?
SAM
Hey! What's up?
AMANDA
You're on speaker, Gretchen is here
too. We wanted to hear how your trip
is going.
GRETCHEN
Hey, Sam!
SAM
Hey! Mark is here too so I'll put
you on speaker.
AMANDA
Hi Marky Mark.
MARK
Hi, Mandy.
AMANDA
What did I say about calling me
that?
MARK
Oh, but Marky Mark is perfectly
fine?
SAM
Anyway! It's been interesting. We
are just warming up on the drive
from the shooting place to the
casino. It's cold as shit here. And
starting to snow again. How's it at
home?
AMANDA
Flurries but nothing is sticking.
 53.

SAM
Of fucking course not. Guess we
won't have a white Christmas.
MARK
(to Sam)
I thought you hated Christmas.
SAM
I do. But it's more tolerable when
it's pretty outside.
Mark rolls his eyes.
AMANDA
So.. how's it going with Mr. Sexy
Businessman?
Mark's expression shifts. He keeps his eyes trained on the
road.
SAM
Ummm... well he invited me to dinner
tonight.
AMANDA
Shut up! Where?
SAM
Some fancy restaurant called
Sinclair's. It's in the hotel. He
said they have the "best steak in
100 miles."
MARK
(snickers)
Did you tell him you don't eat meat.
SAM
Yesss. He said they have other
options.
MARK
Hmm.
Amanda looks at Gretchen, sensing the tension through the
phone. Gretchen shakes her head NO.
Amanda mouths "WHAT?" Gretchen presses the mute button on the
phone.
GRETCHEN
She's supposed to be with Mark!
 54.

AMANDA
Shit, you're right. I kind of
forgot. Oh my god this is so
exciting.
SAM
Guys?
Gretchen presses the mute button again, turning it off.
AMANDA
Yeah, sorry, I got distracted
with... uhh... my mom texted me.

SAM
I thought you weren't speaking to
your mom.
AMANDA
Exactly. That's why I got
distracted!
Sam shakes her head.
SAM
Anyway, I don't know. He's nice and
all but...
AMANDA
But what?
SAM
I don't know. He's attractive. But
it would never work. He lives here.
I live in Indy. It's just not
possible.

AMANDA
Oh.
(a pause)
So you've, like, given this thought.
SAM
No! I mean, sorta. This is the first
person who has explicitly expressed
interest in a long time.
Mark glances out of his peripheral vision.
SAM
He seems snobby. I'm not sure he's
my type. But, he's funny.
 55.

Amanda and Gretchen share a glance from the other end of the
line. Amanda mouths "FUCK!"
AMANDA
Well, see how dinner goes tonight.
If you feel a connection, see what
happens. Just go with the flow. And
have fun with Marky Mark today.
(to Mark)
Thanks for keeping her safe, Mark!
MARK
I try my best. She almost shot me
earlier.
AMANDA
Sam!
SAM
He's lying!
Sam hears a voice cut in on Amanda's side.
It's the Barista from yesterday.

BARISTA
(to Gretchen)
You're back!
GRETCHEN
Oh, hi.
Gretchen blushes. Amanda smirks.
AMANDA
Look, we gotta go. I'll talk to you
later, Sam.
AMANDA/GRETCHEN
Bye guys!
SAM/MARK
Bye!

25 INT. COFFEE SHOP - DAY 25

The barista is wearing a pink, ruffled apron.
BARISTA
My name is Maddie, by the way.
GRETCHEN
Gretchen.
 56.

Maddie extends a hand. Gretchen shakes it.

26 INT. SAM’S CAR - DAY 26

MARK
So you're going to dinner with this
guy tonight?
SAM
Yeah.
MARK
What am I supposed to do??
SAM
I'm sure you'll find something! This
is a business trip. It's my job to
meet with him and discuss the
business. This promotion is a big
deal to me.
MARK
I'll be lonely.
SAM
Go ride the Polar Express.
MARK
(playfully)
Bitch.
Sam punches Mark on the arm.

SAM
Misogynist.
Mark tries to smirk but there's a hint of pain in his face.

27 INT. SMALL TOWN CAFE - DAY 27

A quaint cafe and coffee shop. It's quiet, not very busy.
Mark and Sam sit at a booth along the side wall. There are
pictures of famous celebrities who have eaten there. Jimmy
Fallon, Warren Buffet, Taylor Swift...
Sam bites into a warm panini. Mark has a cup of coffee and a
large deli sandwich with kettle chips. He wipes crumbs off of
his face.
MARK
That casino was huge.
 57.

SAM
I know, I was pleasantly surprised.
MARK
Agreed.
SAM
We never would have known about it
otherwise. That's the problem.
MARK
Sounds like there's a lot for you to
work with.
SAM
A Word document, a headache, then
hopefully fucking a raise. I just
hope it meets their expectations.
Shane's boss--
MARK
The dude's name is Shane?
SAM
Yeah, what about it?
MARK
Like Joe Jonas's character in Camp
Rock?
SAM
I forgot about that movie. Maybe we
should watch that tonight.
MARK
No! I'm taking you to the "drive-in"
movie to help with your lack of
Christmas spirit.
SAM
Oh fuck that's right. Okay, I'll
make sure we finish dinner in time.
It's not until eight right?
MARK
Right.
SAM
What movie are we seeing again?
MARK
Elf.
SAM
 58.

That's the one with Will Ferrell?

MARK
I'm embarrassed for you.
Sam flips him off, then continues eating her panini. Mark
looks at a photo on the wall. It's a young couple sharing a
strawberry shake. They look just like the old couple from the
tour.

28 INT. SINCLAIR’S - NIGHT 28

Mood lighting makes the ambiance soft and dark. The
restaurant is fancy. White tablecloths. Candles. Short menus.
Shane and Sam sit across from each other at a table in the
center of the restaurant. Shane lifts a glass of wine to his
mouth and takes a slow sip, gazing at Sam.
SHANE
What do you think of Hotel West so
far?
SAM
It's amazing. One of the coolest
places I've been. But, if Hotel West
wants to be operating in ten, twenty
years, the advertising needs major
renovations.

SHANE
You're not wrong.
SAM
I know.
SHANE
You know, I got you all wrong.
SAM
How so?
SHANE
You're bold.
SAM
You have to be bold to be a twenty-
year-old woman in business. Or
you'll get pushed around until you
settle for something less than what
you deserve.
SHANE
 59.

And are you where you deserve?

SAM
I will be, when I solve all your
problems.
(a pause)
That came out a lot... hornier than
intended. I meant the hotel's
problems.
SHANE
Mhm, sure.
SAM
(giggles)
I'm serious.
Shane looks dark and mysterious under the light. It's
thrilling.
SHANE
So, tell me, what's the deal with
you and Christmas?
Sam clears her throat. She shifts in her seat, sitting up
straighter.
SAM
Holidays tended not to live up to
the expectation I had as a kid. So
now, rather than be disappointed, I
refuse to let Christmas hold some
kind of mistletoe guillotine over my
head.
SHANE
Ouch. What about the spirit of
giving?
SAM
I give all the time. Imagine how
much more money people would donate
if they didn't spend some allotted
sum at the end of the year. I
guarantee the total would be a lot
more if if it happened periodically
rather than all at once.
SHANE
You've got a point.
SAM
What about Hotel West's giving? How
does the hotel give?
 60.

SHANE
We often donate to local charities.
There's a lot of folks with very
little around here.
SAM
And yet here's this fancy hotel
bringing in celebrities every month.
Shane goes silent.
SAM
I don't mean to criticize. It's my
job to understand potential PR
problems. If we get involved with
Hotel West, it will hopefully boost
public awareness, which would also
mean more critique. Especially since
more and more stakeholders want to
see the "good corporate citizen."
Donating, participating in the
community, sponsorships...
SHANE
We host the Spring Garden Gala to
raise money for the local hospital.
SAM
That's great. Have you considered
other ways to raise money that
doesn't include spending a
ridiculous amount of money making
everything perfect to appease rich
people? What about an auction?
SHANE
We do an auction during the gala.
SAM
Where does the money go?
SHANE
Is this an interrogation? We have a
community relations specialist who's
in charge of our events and such.
I'm not privy to those meetings.
SAM
Sorry, I just thought--
SHANE
Look, I get it. This is a part of
your job. That doesn't make it any
less insulting. We run a successful
 61.

company that brings in a lot of

money. Of course we donate to help
others.
The waiter approaches with a pitcher of water. He refills the
fancy water glasses, then sets it down on the edge of the
table.
WAITER
Are we ready to order?
Shane and Sam glance at each other. They both fold their
menus and nod.
The waiter pulls out a pad and pencil.

WAITER
What can I get for ya?
Shane gestures for Sam to begin.
SAM
I'll take the Margherita pizza
please.
SHANE
And I'll have the sirloin.
The waiter takes their menus and walks off.
SHANE
You know this place has the best
steak in a one hundred mile radius.
SAM
I'm vegetarian.
Shane puts a fist to his forehead.

SHANE
I'm an idiot. You told me that
yesterday.
Sam laughs it off. She takes a sip of her wine.
SAM
It's fine. Honestly, I am such a
sucker for Margherita pizza anyway.
Even if I did eat meat, I'd still
order the pizza.
Shane frowns, perturbed.
SHANE
 62.

Even the best steak in the world?

SAM
Wouldn't matter.
SHANE
Hmm.
SAM
So, have you always lived here in
French Lick?
SHANE
No, I am from a small town in
Connecticut called West Baden.
SAM
Oh, goodness. What made you decide
to move to Indiana?
SHANE
This position was too good to pass
up. I went to Vanderbilt so it
wasn't far from where I was living
at the time. What about you?
SAM
Oh, me... I went to Depaul in
Chicago. I got a job offer from Due
North that I couldn't pass up. Most
of my family lives in Chicago,
though.
SHANE
Are you close?
SAM
With my family?
Shane nods.
SAM
Not really. My sister, yes, but I
don't get to see her often.
SHANE
Oh, sorry to hear that.

Sam brushes it off.

SAM
It's fine. Just part of the whole
Christmas-thing.
 63.

Sam glances around the restaurant, observing the tables of

happy families, couples, friends, lovers...

29 INT. BALLARD’S AT THE ATRIUM RESTAURANT - SAME TIME 29

The restaurant is in the atrium of the hotel, right under the
red-lit dome.
Mark is seated at a solo table. He thanks the host. Before
walking off, the host picks up the second menu and set of
silverware.
OLD LADY
All alone?
Mark jumps. He looks around to identify the owner of the
voice. When he finally finds her, sitting directly behind
him, he realizes who it is. The lady from the tour. He smiles
at her.
MARK
It seems that way.
OLD MAN
Come join us.
He pats the empty seat next to him.
MARK
Oh no, I couldn't intrude.
OLD LADY
Oh, but we insist. We couldn't let a
fella like you sit all alone on the
holidays.
MARK
Really, I'm fi--
OLD LADY
(firmly)
Young man. We haven't even ordered
yet. Come sit with us.
Mark grabs his menu and scoots his chair into the table. He
places it at their table.
MARK
I'll be right back.
We see Mark at the host stand. He points in the direction of
the old couple, letting them know he has moved seats. The
 64.

host sighs. He picks up two more sets of silverware and

menus.

30 INT. SINCLAIR’S - LATER 30

SHANE
How's the pizza?
SAM
Delicious. How's the best steak in
one hundred miles?
SHANE
As good as ever.
They return to eating their meals in awkward silence.

31 INT. BALLARD’S AT THE ATRIUM RESTAURANT - CONTINUOUS 31

OLD MAN
So, where's the girl?

MARK
On a date.
The old couple shares a surprised glance.
OLD LADY
How can she be on a date if you came
here together?
MARK
We're just friends. I tagged along
so she wouldn't have to come on this
trip alone. But she's had business
meetings and stuff. She's at dinner
with the business manager right now.
OLD LADY
Shane?
Mark is taken aback.

MARK
Yeah...
OLD MAN
We've been coming to this hotel
every year since the 60s. He's been
working here the last three years.
Always schmoozing with the ladies.
 65.

MARK
I mean, isn't his job to be
personable?
OLD LADY
Just be wary. If it was my daughter
or niece, I wouldn't let them near
the man. He's got a charm, but
there's something off about the guy.
MARK
Good to know.
OLD MAN
Enough about the weirdo. What about
you? Huh?
MARK
Me?
OLD MAN
Yeah. How are you going to woo her?
Mark thinks for a moment.
OLD MAN
You do want to woo her don't you?
MARK
I, uh--
OLD LADY
Do you love her?
MARK
She's my best friend.
OLD LADY
But do you love her?
MARK
Of course.
OLD LADY
Then wouldn't the possibilities
outweigh the risks?
Mark stares into space, thinking of all the possibilities.

32 INT. HOTEL WEST - NIGHT 32

Sam and Shane are walking around the ring of the hotel. Sam
carries her purse dangling to the side. They walk in slow-
 66.

paced steps, every move calculated.

SHANE
Did you enjoy your dinner?
SAM
I did, thank you. You really didn't
have to pay for me. This is a
business trip anyway, my company can
pay for my expenses.
SHANE
It was my pleasure. I'm glad we were
able to get to know each other
better. I jump at any chance I get
to sit across from someone as
beautiful as yourself.
Sam blushes. She stops, glancing at Shane. They are stopped
in the middle of the hall. He reaches out a hand, leaning in
to kiss her.
Sam catches sight of a clock hanging on the wall. The time
reads 7:55.
SAM
(whispers)
Shit.
SHANE
What's the matter?
SAM
I promised Mark I would meet him at
7:45 to go see the drive-in movie.
I'm late. Really late.
SHANE
Do you like ice cream?
SAM
Yes, but--
SHANE
Later. Meet me outside Xanado, at
11.
SAM
What are we... teenagers?
SHANE
I'd like to think I still have a
youthful glow.
 67.

SAM
I gotta go!
SHANE
Bye, Sam.
Sam takes off in a run.

34 INT. DRIVE - IN MOVIE - NIGHT 34

Mark sits in the back row of the "drive-in" movie, more like
a mass picnic at night. Warm Christmas lights dangle from the
walls, illuminating the place in coziness. Families are still
filing in. A few kids are crying. This is going to be a long
movie.
Sam walks in, spots Mark. She shuffles quickly through the
crowd of people and blankets.
SAM
I'm sorry I'm late.
Mark provides a faint smile.
MARK
How was your date?
SAM
It was fine. He wants to get ice
cream later.
MARK
Don't you think it's strange how
much time this guy wants to spend
with you? Like, he only met you
yesterday.
SAM
He knows what he wants. What's wrong
with that?
MARK
Nothing, I guess.
SAM
So what movie is this?
He turns to face her.
MARK
Elf. You've never seen Elf?
SAM
 68.

What part of 'I hate Christmas'

don't you understand?
MARK
But it's a classic. Arguably the
best Christmas movie of all time.
SAM
Hmm.
MARK
Oh, you know who's in this...
SAM
Who?
MARK
Jon Favreauh!
SAM
Happy is in this movie?
MARK
I think he directed it too. There's
a whole documentary about this movie
on Netflix.
SAM
Oh, I think I remember you begging
me to sit and watch it. Lord, you
are obsessed.
MARK
(mumbles)
It's just a good movie.
SAM
Why are we so far from the screen?
MARK
I didn't want to sit without
something to rest my back on. I get
aches and pains. I'm an old man,
Sam.
SAM
Because you refuse to see a
chiropractor.
MARK
It's a scam. Doctors cure people.
Chiros provide temporary fixes to
make people come back.
 69.

SAM
Have you considered the fact that...
just maybe... back problems will
never go away. You can visit a
chiropractor to mitigate but they'll
never be gone.
MARK
What are you an expert in
chiropractic?
SAM
Maybe...
Mark shakes his head.
SAM
(mysteriously)
There's so much you don't know about
me.
MARK
Oh really? Like what? I know
everything there is to know about
you.
Sam accepts the challenge. Her eyes narrow.
SAM
Favorite drink?
MARK
Amaretto Sour.
SAM
Color?
MARK
Right now? Lavender.
Sam nods, impressed.
SAM
What was my major when I went into
college?
MARK
Biology.
SAM
Childhood dog?
MARK
Murphy.
 70.

SAM
Where did I grow up?
MARK
Easy, Englewood. Will you just watch
the movie?
SAM
My biggest fear?
MARK
Being dependent on someone.
Ouch. Right in the gut.
SAM
Bingo.
MARK
I'm sorry I didn't meant to--
SAM
It's fine. You were right.
MARK
Still, I just--
Sam cuts him off. She leans in, wrapping her arms around his
midsection. At first, he's unsure what to do. She digs her
head into the crook of his neck. He tilts his head on top of
hers. Her cheek is pressed to his chest. They're still for a
moment before Mark plays with her hair between his thumb and
index finger.
Mark's chest rises and falls, Sam's head along with it.
Slowly, she lifts her head to look him in the eyes. Their
faces are mere inches apart. Sam takes a deep breath. Mark's
heart stops. His hand idles in the air between them, moving
toward the side of her face.
They're leaning in. Closer. Closer.
WORKER
Would you like some popcorn?
A short woman hovers over them with bags of popcorn in hand.
Flustered, they immediately jump to their respective spots on
the blanket.
Mark glances at Sam.
MARK
 71.

Want some?
SAM
I'm good, thanks.

WORKER
I'll just be right over there if you
decide you want some during the
movie.
SAM
Thanks, we appreciate it.
With their backs against the wall, and several feet between
them, Mark and Sam settle in for the movie.

35 INT. DRIVE - IN MOVIE - MOMENTS LATER 35

Buddy is traveling through the forest on his journey to NYC.
Sam and Mark sit one feet apart.

36 INT. DRIVE - IN MOVIE - MINUTES LATER 36

Buddy answers the phone in his Dad's office.
BUDDY
Buddy the Elf what's your favorite
color?
Sam chuckles. Mark laughs with a hand on his chest. Sam
scoots a bit closer. Their shoulders touch. Neither one moves
away.

37 INT. DRIVE - IN MOVIE - MINUTES LATER 37

Buddy and Jovie are ice skating at the rink in NYC.
Sam's left hand sits on her thigh. Mark's right hand sits on
his thigh.
In a moment of boldness, Mark moves his hand over. Pinkies
touching. Hearts stammer.
He slips his hand underneath hers. Fingers interlock. They
relax in each other, taking a deep breath.
He rubs a thumb on her skin.
Sam smiles to herself.
Mark hangs his head, pleased.
 72.

38 INT. DRIVE - IN MOVIE - HALF AN HOUR LATER 38

The movie comes to an end. Jovie is singing and playing the
piano at Buddy's family Christmas.
Mark's arm is wrapped around Sam, flat on the side of her
waist. They pull away. The crowd gets up, everyone
dispersing. Sam grabs her phone to check the time. 9:47.
Mark grabs the blanket from the ground. Folds it.
MARK
Got somewhere to be?

SAM
Yeah, I'm, uh, meeting Shane to get
ice cream at 10.
MARK
Oh, you can't be late for Shane.
His voice is full of hurt.
Sam cocks her head.
SAM
He asked if I wanted to get ice
cream. I said yes. We are doing
business together.
MARK
It's fine, really, I get it.
Mark smiles halfheartedly.

39 INT. ATRIUM - NIGHT 39

Mark walks through the atrium. He finds a comfy gold couch to
sit in. When he leans back, he looks up at the Christmas
lights illuminating the dome.
OLD LADY
Well, well, well...
MARK
Ah, hello again.
The old man glances from the empty space on the couch, to
Mark, back to the empty space, and back to Mark. He sighs,
visibly and audibly disappointed.
OLD MAN
Oh no...
 73.

MARK
Tell me about it.
OLD LADY
Nothing? At the drive in movie?
Those darn things are gold mines for
making out.
MARK
Well, not nothing. We held hands.
Like teenagers.
The old couple looks at each other, thinking about their
adolescence.
OLD LADY
That is not nothing.
MARK
It's not an overwhelming something
either. I know there's a spark
between us, but I also know this
Shane guy has quite the grip on her.
OLD MAN
It's been a few days. She couldn't
possibly be in love with the guy.
MARK
He checks her boxes. She said it
herself, in the car on the phone
with her friend.
OLD MAN
But he's not you.

43 INT. HALLWAY OUTSIDE XANADU - SAME TIME 43

Shane leans against the wall waiting for Sam. He wears a
black trench coat. He's checking his phone, swiping through
messages with one hand in his pocket when she walks. He
glances up from his phone, smiles.

SHANE
You're here.
SAM
(dryly)
I am.
SHANE
What's wrong.
 74.

SAM
Nothing. I just really need some ice
cream.
SHANE
Well, I am more than happy to
appease.
Sam smiles, halfheartedly.

44 INT. XANADU - CONTINUOUS 44

Sam and Shane enter. It's a cute, colorful shop. A woman
behind the counter is helping a family in front of them. She
has thin-frame glasses and an apron made to look like Mrs.
Clause. Sam rolls her eyes. Shane notices and nudges her
shoulder. Sam smirks.
The family steps out of the way and it's now their turn.
TRACY, her name tag says, glances between Shane and Sam
several times before adjusting her narrow eyes to a warm
smile. She knows Shane.
TRACY
What can I get for ya?
SHANE
Can I get the pineapple coconut ice
cream?

SAM
Ew, are you serious?
Shane looks at her appalled that she would even ask such a
thing. Even Tracy chuckles.
SHANE
It's the best ice cream I've ever
had.
He holds his hand in the air like he's giving an oath.
SHANE
Swear to God.
Sam looks at her options, but she keeps going back tp the
ominous pineapple coconut.
SHANE
If you don't like it, I'll buy you a
new one.
 75.

Tracy rolls her eyes.

SAM
Oh, that's really not necessary.
TRACY
Or you can just try a sample.
SHANE
Or there's that.
SAM
A sample would be great, thanks!
Tracy hands over a tiny spoon with a scoop of the yellow ice
cream. Sam eats the sample, then licks the spoon. Her eyes
light up. Shane grins.
SAM
I'll have a small pineapple coconut.

45 EXT. GARDEN - NIGHT 45

Christmas lights set to music. It's a winter wonderland.
Sam is bundled in the coat Shane was wearing. It nearly drags
on the floor. Sam huddles for warmth, holding onto her small
ice cream cup with gloved hands. She takes another bite.
SAM
This really is the best ice cream on
the planet. I could eat this every
day.
SHANE
I told you so.
SAM
You did.
They approach a large, house-looking structure. There are a
few of these funky buildings surrounding the path of the
gardens.
Sam points to the building.
SAM
Oh, that's the mineral spring our
tour guide was telling us about?
SHANE
Yeah! It was filled in when the
Jesuits took over the hotel.
 76.

Visitors used to take a staircase

down to the river to drink from the
spring. Wanna go in?
Sam nods her head, curiosity blooming.
Shane leads them up the steps and opens the door.

46 INT. MINERAL SPRING BUILDING - CONTINUOUS 46

Sam steps through the door first. Shane follows. He shuts the
door behind him. It's not very big; round with a high roof.
SAM
Woah.
Her voice echoes, booming off the walls.
SAM
Oh, holy shit!
Each word echoes.
SHANE
Isn't it amazing?
SAM
Yeah. Too bad the well is filled
though, I bet that was amazing.

SHANE
Sometimes, when we host weddings, I
can walk out the front door and hear
children shouting. With the door
closed and everything.
SAM
(in a deep, ominous voice)
I am inevitable.
Shane cocks his head, confused.
SAM
You don't know what that's from?
SHANE
I can't say I do.
Sam frowns, disappointed.
She shivers.
SHANE
 77.

Are you cold?

SAM
What makes you say that?
SHANE
You're shivering.
SAM
Nah, I'm fine.
Shane walks over to her. He takes her ice cream cup and sets
it on a nearby window ledge.
SHANE
Maybe this will help.
He places his hands on her shoulders, using friction to warm
her up.
She leans into the feeling.
Shane slows the motion, then takes another step forward,
closing the distance. Breaths visible in the air.
Shane leans in. Sam follows. He cups her face, kisses her.
He draws back.
SHANE
Better?
Sam smiles, cheeks red. Both from the cold and the kiss.
SAM
Yeah.
Shane reaches behind Sam's coat, placing his hands on her
waist. She flinches at the cold touch of his fingers. He
pulls her closer. This time, he kisses her with more passion.
Sam wraps her arms around his neck. Her back is against the
dirty wall. Shane presses her there. His hands travel: along
her back, to her waist again, up the side of her, then to the
button of her pants. His finger presses into the skin just
behind her button, then reaches to unbutton her pants.
Sam's hand quickly halts his.
SAM
(whispers)
Not right now.
SHANE
 78.

(whispers in her ear)

It's okay, we're alone.
SAM
(firmly)
I don't care.

Shane's hand continues to fumble with the zipper. He kisses

her again. She does not kiss him back. She tries to pull
away. He keeps going.
Sam knees him in the crotch. Shane drops onto his knees.
Sam steps past him, then turns back. She kicks a foot on his
chest, knocking him on his back. She stands over him. Her jaw
clenches. She bursts out the door.

46A EXT. GARDEN - CONTINUOUS 46A

Sam ditches Shane's jacket along the garden path.

47 INT. HOTEL ROOM - MIDNIGHT 47

The back of Sam's hand is pressed to her mouth. Tears stream
down her face.

Her hand shakes as she zips her suitcase which is sitting on

the bed-- full of clothes.
Mark is nowhere to be found. She scribbles a note on the pad
of paper on the nightstand.
It reads:
I'm sorry. I have to go. You can drive home in my car. Keys
are on the desk.
Sam picks up the hotel phone.
SAM
(voice shaky)
Yes, could you call a cab? Samantha
Moore. No, I still have a guest
staying in the room. He will check
out tomorrow.
(pause)
Thank you.
Sam hangs up the phone.
She sets her luggage on the ground, pops the handle, and
reaches for the door knob. Sam takes one last look at the
 79.

hotel room before closing the door.

48 INT. ATRIUM - CONTINUOUS 48

Mark lays asleep on the couch. He's snoring, mouth wide open.
The atrium is vacant, save for one couple dancing on the tile
floor at the other end of the circle.
Sam walks past Mark with her suitcase. The back of the couch
faces away from the path, so she cannot see him.

49 INT. HOTEL LOBBY - CONTINUOUS 49

The crabby guy from check-in is the only person on duty. Sam
steps up to the counter.
SAM
Hi, Saman--
FRONT DESK MAN
Samantha Moore? Your cab is here.
SAM
Thank you.
FRONT DESK MAN
Thanks for staying at Hotel West.
Her back is already turned to him. She makes a B-line for the
cab.

50 INT. CAB - CONTINUOUS 50

Sam shuts the door. The cab driver, a woman with fried curly
hair and a tattoo of Jesus turns to look at her.
CABBIE
Where to honey?
SAM
The airport.
CABBIE
At this time of night? There's not
gonna be any flights until the
morning.
SAM
Just drive.
CABBIE
 80.

Alright.
The car starts moving.

Sam sobs in silence.

51 INT. AIRPORT - SUNRISE 51

The gate is vacant. Parts of the airport aren't yet open. Sam
sits in the middle of the row with a coffee in her hand. She
types an email on her computer.
It reads:
Eric,
I will be taking a vacation starting on Monday until after
the 25th. I apologize for the late notice. I will explain the
situation when I return. As for Hotel West, I have a rough
outline of a campaign drafted which I will send in the
meantime. At this point in time, I am unsure whether I will
seek the promotion when I return. This decision is not one
taken lightly. It will come after careful consideration of
the impacts on my mental health.
Take care and happy holidays.
Thanks,
Sam
She takes a bite into her bagel, staring out the window at
the pink clouds. A tear leaks, dripping down her cheek. She
wipes it and sniffles her nose.
She picks up her phone, fingers still shaky. The phone screen
scrolls through the apps until she clicks on the Phone icon
and selects 'Sarah' under favorites.
The phone rings.

52 INT. BEDROOM - SUNRISE 52

A 30-year-old blonde woman reaches for a ringing phone on her
nightstand next to a diamond ring. This is SARAH.
She checks the name of the caller: Sam. She puts the phone to
her ear.
SARAH
Sam?
 81.

The man, her husband, laying next to her under the white
sheets pushes himself off the mattress, looking at her with
concern.
Sarah sits up in the bed. She's wearing a silk tank top, but
still pulls the covers up.
INTERCUT- PHONE CONVERSATION:
SAM
(trembles)
Sarah?

SARAH
Sam, what's going on?
SAM
I'm, uh, at the airport.
SARAH
What??
SAM
Can I stay with you for a few days?
SARAH
Always. You know that.
SAM
I'm getting on a flight to Chicago
at 8. Can you pick me up? I just, I
don't have anywhere else to go.
Sarah takes a worried breath.
SARAH
Sam, are you okay?
SAM
No. But, um, I also really don't
want to talk about it. I just need
some time. So, uh, I'll call you
when I land?
SARAH
Yeah, okay. I love you.
Sam squeezes tears from her eyes. Her voice sounds nasally
when she responds.
SAM
I love you too. I'll see you soon.
Sam hangs up the phone.
 82.

People start to file into the airport. Sam stares out the
window.

53 INT. ATRIUM - MORNING 53

Forks clink against ceramic plates. Families move in and out
of the atrium.
Mark's eyes blink open. He jolts. He checks his watch. It
reads 7:15. He rubs his eyes, then pushes himself off of the
couch.
Mark trudges through the atrium to one of the wings.

54 INT. HALLWAY - MOMENTS LATER 54

Mark pushes the keycard into the slot. The light shines
green. He turns the knob slowly, quietly.
When the door opens, the bed is empty. It's still indented
from the suitcase.

55 INT. HOTEL ROOM - CONTINUOUS 55

Mark marches to the bathroom door left ajar. He paces the
whole room. She's gone.
He darts to the door, but catches a glimpse of the note on
the nightstand. He grabs it. His eyes trace the words.
He stands there, staring blankly at the card. His shoulders
sink.
Mark yanks his phone out of his pocket. He clicks the first
person's name in his Favorites. Sam.

56 INT. AIRPORT - CONTINUOUS 56

Sam's phone vibrates in her pocket. She pulls it out. The
name on the screen reads: Mark. She closes her eyes. Pressing
the side button, she sends him straight to voicemail.

57 INT. HOTEL ROOM - CONTINUOUS 57

Mark's breath quickens as he waits. The phone rings twice.
SAM
Hi, you've reached my voicemail.
Unfortunately, I am unable to take
 83.

your call. Please leave a--

Mark hangs up and throws his phone on the bed forcefully.
MARK
Damnnit.

58 INT. AIRPORT - MORNING 58

Sam is next in line to board the plane. She hands the flight
attendant her ticket to scan. Keeping her gaze fixed at the
ground, she walks into the terminal.

59 INT. APARTMENT KITCHEN- DAY 59

Amanda and Gretchen are sitting at the table eating lunch.
The apartment door slams shut.
AMANDA
Uh, hello?
MARK (O.S.)
It's just me. Is that how you'd
react if a burglar walked into this
apartment??
Mark walks into the kitchen. He glances at the unlit
Christmas tree and sighs.
AMANDA
No, I just, well... apparently. I
mean, if I didn't hear a response,
then I'd head straight for the
knives.
Gretchen chuckles.
AMANDA
Where's Sam?
MARK
I don't know.
AMANDA
Are you fucking around? 'Cause it's
not funny.
MARK
I wish I was.
AMANDA
 84.

She was with you. How do you lose a

whole person?
MARK
She left a note. She left in the
middle of the night. I'm not sure
where she went. I hope I didn't...
oh god what if...
AMANDA
Spit it out.
MARK
Well there was a moment where we...
AMANDA
OH MY GOD DID YOU KISS?
MARK
No. Almost. But now I'm afraid I
ruined everything. Maybe she really
doesn't feel that way about me. And
now she's gone because of me.
AMANDA
Did you try texting her?
MARK
(sarcastically)
No. I never thought of that.
(pause)
Only about eleven times. No
response.
AMANDA
Where would she go? She's not with
that guy is she?
MARK
God, I hope not. She left me the
keys though. If she was with him,
he'd have to drive her all the way
home. There's no way.
AMANDA
Let me try texting her.
MARK
Be my guest.

60 EXT. AIRPORT ARRIVALS - MORNING 60

 85.

It's still early morning in Chicago. There are few cars at

the pick up area. A lady down the way opens her suitcase to
pull out a coat. It's fucking cold.
A white Honda van pulls up next to Sam.
Sarah gets out of the car and runs to Sam.
They hug, holding each other for a while.
Sam cries. At first it's just a steady stream. Then, she
sobs.
SAM
Thank you.
She releases her sister. Sam reaches for her bag.
Sarah rubs her back.
SARAH
Let's go home.

61 INT. GUEST BEDROOM - DAY 61

Sam unpacks her bag in the closet. It's quaint, perfect for
guests. The bedding is red and green for Christmas.
Sam notices a little green Buddy the Elf standing on the
nightstand. She picks him up and places him face down.

62 INT. BATHROOM - MOMENTS LATER 62

Sam washes her hands in the bathroom. She turns off the
faucet and reaches for the towel. Stitched into the fabric,
it reads: You smell like beef and cheese. Sam grins.
Sarah speaks into the bathroom from the bedroom.
SARAH
Hey, you okay?

63 INT. BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS 63

SAM
Much better. I just need to stay for
a few days, figure everything out. I
can't go back to the apartment, not
yet.
SARAH
 86.

You can stay as long as you want.

You're always welcome here.
SAM
I appreciate it. Is it okay if I
take a nap? I've been up since
yesterday.
SARAH
Yeah, of course. The kids don't get
home until 2 anyway.
Sarah shuts the door on her way out.
Sam plops on the bed. She scrolls through Instagram on her
phone. After a few scrolls, she closes the app. On her home
screen, she has 20+ notifications on iMessage. She opens
them.
From Mark:
Where are you?
What happened?
Are you okay?
I'll take the car home but I need to know you're safe first.
Please respond to me.
Sam.
I'm worried about you.
From Amanda:
Mark just got home and you're not with him. What's that
about.
Sam?
Dude where the fuck are you?
Are you okay?
We're getting concerned.
Sam starts typing in a group chat named A-1 Sauce.
Hey guys. I'm okay. I took the week off of work. I'm staying
at my sisters for a while. I'll be back soon. x
 87.

64 INT. APARTMENT LIVING ROOM- AFTERNOON 64

Amanda is watching a movie on the tv when her phone dings.
She turns it over.
Text Message from Sam:
Hey guys. I'm okay. I took the week off of work. I'm staying
at my sisters for a while. I'll be back soon. x
AMANDA
Mark!
MARK
I see it.
AMANDA
Why would she go to her sister's
place? Isn't she on bad terms with
her family?
MARK
Not her sister. Sarah and Sam talk
all the time.

65 INT. DINING ROOM - SUNSET 65

Sam sits at the dinner table with Sarah's family. Her two
children, a six-year-old named ELLA with curly ginger hair
and eight-year-old AUGUST, an odd-ball with blonde hair.
Sarah's husband, ANDREW, is sitting next to Ella, feeding her
cut up pieces of turkey. He drops ketchup on his tie.
ANDREW
Shit.
AUGUST
(echoes)
Shit.
ANDREW
(sighs loudly)
No, we do not repeat bad words.
Sam smiles to herself.
ANDREW
Sam, how's work?
SAM
It's, uh, it's alright.
She takes a bite of Brussel Sprouts off her fork.
 88.

ANDREW
You work at Due North, yes?
SAM
(impressed)
Yeah!
ANDREW
One of my buddies from college works
there. Eric?
SAM
He's my boss, actually. He runs the
place. Big CEO. He's a good guy.

ANDREW
Glad to hear it. He was always the
most understanding in the group.
Sounds like he still is, since he
gave you the whole week off.
SAM
I haven't used many vacation days
yet so I think it's a warranted
break. Especially with the holidays
coming up, many businesses are only
putting enough effort to get through
the year. I doubt my absence will
send the company into bankruptcy.
ANDREW
Good point.
The table vibrates. It's Sam's phone. She checks it. Mark.
She sends him to voicemail.

SARAH
Who keeps calling you?
SAM
It's Mark. He's worried.
SARAH
Don't you think you should talk to
him?
SAM
I don't have anything to say.
SARAH
Maybe explain why you up and left
him at some random hotel in the
middle of nowhere.
 89.

Sam cringes.
SAM
He'll understand. I just need time.

SARAH
For what??
SAM
TO PROCESS WHAT HAPPENED TO ME!
Sarah's eyes fix on her plate.
SARAH
(softly)
Sorry. I shouldn't pry. It's not my
business. You're ready when you're
ready.
SAM
(mumbles)
Thank you.

66 INT. APARTMENT KITCHEN - SAME TIME 66

Mark, Amanda, Gretchen, and David eat dinner in the kitchen.

Amanda and Gretchen sit at the bar; David and Mark at the
table. Christmas Vacation is playing on the tv.
MARK
Amanda, do you know where Sam's
sister lives?
AMANDA
Are you serious with this again?
MARK
(oblivious)
Yeah?
AMANDA
Sam reached out. She said what she
needed to say. All you need to do is
give her time and space.
She shakes her head.
GRETCHEN
(sarcastically)
Men.
DAVID
Hey!
 90.

GRETCHEN
Sorry. Cis straight men.
DAVID
Better.

67 INT. SARAH'S LIVING ROOM - THE NEXT DAY 67

Sam types away on a Word document. She sips on a mug of
coffee. Sarah walks down the stairs in a pencil skirt and
ruffled pink blouse.
SARAH
(shouts)
Kids, I'm leaving in five minutes! I
don't want to be late for work
again.
(to Sam)
I'll be back by five-thirty. Maybe
later. You good to just hangout
here?
Sam nods.
SARAH
(shouts up the stairs)
Ella, are you finished getting
dressed sweetie?
ELLA
I want Auntie Sam to help me!
Sarah sighs.

Sam sets her computer on the coffee table and disappears up

the stairs.
Sam's phone starts ringing. Sarah comes back into the room
from around the corner to see who's calling. It's Mark.
She debates for a moment. She picks it up.
SARAH
Hello?
MARK (V.O.)
Sam?
SARAH
No, this is Sarah.
MARK (V.O.)
 91.

Oh, you're Sam's sister! Is she

there?
SARAH
Look I'm late for work and Sam is
upstairs. I don't have a lot of
time. Listen, I don't know what's
going on. Something isn't right. And
something tells me the reason you
keep calling is because you have
something to do with it. So, either
you leave her alone, or you get your
ass here. Understood?
MARK (V.O.)
I don't even know where you live.
SARAH
1234 Cox Court.
MARK (V.O.)
You serious Clark?

SARAH
I wish I was kidding.
SAM (O.S.)
Did you say something?
SARAH
(whispers to the phone)
Fix this.
Sarah hangs up, setting the phone back where she found it.
Sam comes down the stairs. Sarah stands suspiciously. Sam
notices.
Footsteps bounce down the stairs. Ella walks into the living
room wearing the worst, most mismatched outfit in the history
of the universe. Zebra print top, cheetah print pants.
SARAH
What did you do to my kid?

Sam shrugs.
SARAH
I literally do not have time to
worry about it. C'mon, let's go.
Sarah pushes Ella out the door, closing it behind her. Sam
sits back down on the couch, sips her coffee, and continues
typing.
 92.

68 INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 68

Sarah is scooping ice cream at the island countertop. The
whole family: Sam, the kids, and Andrew are in the living
room gathered around the tv.
August giggles at Jim Gaffigan making a joke. Ella laughs in
reaction to her brother.
ANDREW
Honey?
SARAH
Yeah babe?
ANDREW
Don't worry about my ice cream, I'll
get it myself.
SARAH
You don't trust me to scoop you
enough, do you?
ANDREW
It's just that you do so much
already.
SARAH
You're ridiculous. Sam, do you want
some?
Sam's heart sinks into her chest.
SAM
No, thanks.
A knock on the front door. Sarah leaps to answer it.
ANDREW
Who the hell is that?
SARAH
Honey, you've got to stop cussing
around the kids.
Sarah opens the door.
Sam leans over to see who's at the door. Then she realizes.
SAM
What's he doing here?
MARK
Can we talk?
 93.

SAM
I told my sister I wasn't ready. I
don't know how or why she invited
you here, and I'm sorry you drove
all the way here, but you need to go
home.
Mark looks like he's just been punched in the gut.
MARK
I'm sorry. I didn't realize. I'll
go. I just need to know what I did.
I never meant to--
SAM
Wait, what? What you did?
MARK
Yeah...

SAM
It wasn't... I just...
Tears build in her eyes.
MARK
(softly)
Sam...
He steps toward her. Sam steps back, holding out a hand. She
turns to where Sarah is standing.
SAM
Sarah? Can I speak to you?
Sarah walks towards the laundry room, Sam follows.

69 INT. LAUNDRY ROOM - CONTINUOUS 69

Sarah flicks the switch. The washer and dryer are stacked on
top of one another. A pile of clothes sits on the counter,
including a looming pair of boxers.
As soon as Sarah shuts the door, Sam goes off.
SAM
What the hell do you think you're
doing? When I explicitly told you I
wasn't ready to address it yet. You
don't even know what happened so how
do you remotely think you can
intervene in my life?
 94.

SARAH
I've watched you these past few
days. You're not well. I don't know
what happened, and I'm sorry for
meddling. I really am. I should have
respected your boundaries, so I
apologize. But sometimes, we don't
want to admit to people that we want
help. Especially you. You've always
been so independent, Sam. And I love
that about you. But when something
bad happens in your life, it's okay
to ask for help. I love you, but I
can't help you. I reached out to the
one person I know who can.
Sam is speechless.
SAM
It wasn't your place.
SARAH
You're right. And I'll take the wrap
for that. But he's here now. You may
as well give him a chance.
Sam huffs, crossing her arms.
SAM
Fine.
SARAH
Now get out there and go talk to
him.

70 INT. LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS 70

Mark is standing in the entranceway, hand rubbing the back of
his neck.Sam comes bursting through the room. She grabs him
by the hand and pulls him up the stairs.
Andrew and Sarah glance at each other.
ELLA
Who's that?
SARAH
A friend of Auntie Sam's.

71 INT. BEDROOM - NIGHT 71

 95.

The light from the ceiling fan is a warm, yellowish tone. The
whole room looks how a sugar cookie candle smells. Red
holiday pillows add a spark of color to the neutral tone
bedding.
Mark hovers by the wall. Sam shuts the door. She sits at the
edge of the bed, atop a green throw blanket.
MARK
(rambles)
Sam, I'm so sorry. I should have
known that you didn't feel that way
about me. I just thought that maybe
since you agreed to let me come on
this trip with you that maybe you
had some sort of leftover feelings
about us. I mean, the line between
friendship and more is thin and I
didn't want to mess anything up but
I didn't want to lose the
opportunity either. I'm sorry if I
pushed your boundaries. I understand
if you need me to find somewhere
else to live or--
Sam's face is riddled with confusion.
SAM
What are you talking about?
MARK
With the movie... and the...
cuddling... I'm just going to stop
now.
Realization smacks her in the face.
SAM
(mumbles)
Oh my god.
Sam gets up from the bed. She walks over to Mark and grabs
his hand.
SAM
Come sit.
She nods towards the bed. Mark does as he's told and sits
next to Sam at the edge of the bed. They're facing the wall,
but their knees are slanted towards each other.
Mark rubs his hands over his pant leg. He waits patiently.
A pause as Sam takes a long breath.
 96.

SAM
(shaky)
You remember Shane... right?
MARK
I mean I never met the guy but,
yeah. Why, what happ...ened...
He trails off when he notices the tears forming in Sam's
eyes. She blinks and a stream of tears falls down her face.
Sam takes another deep, shaky breath.
MARK
Sam?
SAM
(sniffles)
He... uh...
She pauses. Deep inhale and exhale to regain herself.
SAM
We got ice cream and then we went to
that garden out front and there was
this mineral spring place that had
been closed up so we went inside to
check it out. I still had my ice
cream and it was so cold outside
that I started to shiver. He wanted
to warm me up, so he...
Her lip starts to quiver.
MARK
Oh my god.
SAM
He, um, he kissed me. And then he
tried to, uh, he tried to...
She breaks down in tears. Sam covers her face with her hands
and sobs. She turns away from Mark.
MARK
Can I hold you?
Sam nods, still looking away.

Mark wraps one arm around her shoulder and the other pressed
to the side of her arm.
Sam leans in close, resting her head on his shoulder. She
then dips it to lay on his chest. He squeezes her tight while
 97.

she cries.
SAM
I'm sorry, I--
MARK
No, hey, look at me.
He lifts her chin. He wipes a tear from her cheek.
MARK
You did exactly what you needed to
do for yourself. You are what
matters, okay? I'm sorry that I
pushed, and I'm sorry your sister
stepped in. It wasn't right. You
deserved to have all the time you
need with this.
SAM
(sniffles)
No, I think she was right. I've been
holding it in all this time. Telling
someone, letting someone console me,
it felt nice. Thank you for being
here with me.
MARK
Always.
She leans in to hug him again.
SAM
(muffled)
I don't know what I'm going to do
about work.

MARK
What do you mean?
SAM
Well, I can't keep working with him.
But I can't tell my boss, or his,
either.
MARK
First of all, I'll drive back down
there right now and take his head
off. Then, you won't have to worry
about any of this. But seeing as you
may prefer keeping me out of prison,
I think you'll have to tell your
boss.
 98.

She withdraws from his arms.

SAM
I don't know if I can.
MARK
If you need someone else to do it, I
will. Otherwise, you have plenty of
people in your life who will support
you no matter what you decide. I
just wish I could knock the living
shit out of this guy.
SAM
I kinda did.
Mark's eyebrows raise.
MARK
You did?
Sam nods, proud of herself. She doesn't elaborate.
MARK
God, Sam. I'm so sorry that happened
to you. If I'd been there or told
you how I felt, then maybe...
SAM
You couldn't have done a thing.
Please don't blame yourself when I'm
trying so hard not to blame myself.
Her voice breaks.
MARK
I just wish I could make your pain
go away.
SAM
That's something I have to do
myself.
Mark nods. Sam continues.
SAM
You make me feel whole again.
They gaze into each other's eyes.
MARK
Sam, I'm in love with you. I've been
in love with you for a while. A lot
longer than I let myself admit. The
 99.

old lady at the hotel helped me

realize that, you may be my best
friend, but you're also the person I
want to spend every day with? The
person I want to make breakfast in
bed for. The person I want to tell
everything to. The person I want to
hold. The person I want to kiss and
forget about the rest of the world.
He was right.
Sam's face lights up. Sam sniffles, holding back happy tears.

Mark wipes away a tear with his thumb. He cups the side of
her face, and pulls her in.
She leans in.
Their lips meet.
Rejoice.
He pulls away and digs into his pocket. He withdraws a wallet
and slips out a $100 bill which he then hands to her.
MARK
I'm sorry I couldn't make Christmas
everything you deserved.
Sam pushes his hand back toward himself.
SAM
Keep the money. Use it to buy me one
of those frisky little lingerie
dresses from that movie.
MARK
Jesus. You'd look amazing in that.
Sam smirks.
SAM
(shrugs)
I know.
Mark grabs her face with both hands and kisses her
passionately.
In between kisses:
MARK
You have no idea how long I've
thought about doing this.
 100.

SAM
Since the movie?
MARK
Ha!
Sam is taken aback.
SAM
The shooting range?
MARK
Ha, yes, and no.
SAM
I give up.
MARK
The day I knocked on the apartment
door and you answered.
SAM
I was hungover that morning.
MARK
It didn't matter to me. I knew I
should have turned around and left
that morning. But I couldn't bring
myself to walk away from you.
Sam gleams.

72 INT. ENTRANCEWAY - MORNING 72

Sam, Mark, Sarah, Andrew, Ella, and August are all gathered
by the door. Sam's suitcase at her side, Mark slipping on his
green coat. It's snowing outside, thick and white.
SARAH
Are you sure you don't want to stay
and wait until the snow passes?

SAM
It could be days! We'll be fine.
Sarah points at Mark.
SARAH
Drive safe.
MARK
How can you not with such precious
cargo?
 101.

He wraps an arm around Sam.

Sam rolls her eyes. Sarah smiles.
Sam steps towards her sister to give her a hug.
SAM
Thank you, for everything.
SARAH
Like I said, you're welcome here
anytime.
Sam hugs Andrew.
ANDREW
It was good to see you, Sam.
SAM
You too.
Sam drops to her knees and opens her arms. The kids run into
them.
SAM
By kiddos! Good to see you cuties.
ELLA
Bye Auntie Sam!
AUGUST
Next time bring presents!
Sam ruffles August's hair.
She reaches for the door knob, ushering Mark to follow.
Goodbyes are shouted left and right until the door closes.
We see the family watch as Mark and Sam get in the car, shut
their doors, and drive away.

73 INT/EXT. MARK’S PARENTS’ HOME - DAY 73

Holding hands, Mark and Sam approach the red front door
carrying presents. The house is a charming, cottage core
style.
Mark knocks on the door, stepping back to wait for the
response.

The door opens.

 102.

Two women stand behind it. Both mid-50's with hints of grey
in their pixie cut hair. The one on the left has half her
head shaved, this is ERIN. The other is CARA-- she has a
gnarly tattoo sleeve and low waist pants.
Mark steps up.
MARK
Mom, Mom, I want you to meet Sam.

CARA
Oh sweetie it's so nice to meet you.
We have heard A LOT.

ERIN
Mark will not shut up about it. A
simple phone call turns into hours
upon hours upon hours--
MARK
Yeah she doesn't need the details,
Mom.
SAM
It's a pleasure to finally meet you
both. Mark has spoken nothing but
the highest remarks about his moms.

The moms smile ear to ear.

CARA
Come in, come in.

Mark presses a hand to Sam's back, guiding her inside.

SAM
I adore this house. I love the way
you've decorated.
ERIN
Why? Because it's a clusterfucking
mess?

SAM
No! I love when you can see people's
personalities in their home. It
makes you want to come back at the
end of the day.
Sam glances down, realizing she's revealed too much.

CARA
I'm going to use that the next time
a straight couple comes into our
 103.

home and tells us it's "unique."

Sam laughs.
ERIN
Mark, you can set those presents
under the tree.

Mark heads into the living room with a white tree covered in
garland and funky ornaments. He sets the boxes down, but
hovers for a moment.

MARK
What's with the extra presents?
ERIN
Your mother's parents and brother
are coming. And I invited my
coworker who got kicked out of his
home for being gay. So he'll be
joining us. I hope that's not a
problem.
MARK
Of course not. Everyone deserves to
have somewhere to go home to on
Christmas.

Mark glances at Sam. She smiles back, full of love.

74 INT. MARK’S PARENTS’ HOME - LATER 74

An old man dressed to the nines sits in a pink armchair,
Cara's brother, a young lumberjack man-- scruffy beard,
flannel-- sits next to a young man with skinny jeans and a
patterned shirt. Cara and Erin are seated on the floor
helping distribute presents. Erin drinks a beer; Cara wine.
Mark and Sam are beside each other standing up next to a wall
and holding hands. Sam tips her head to rest on Mark's
shoulder. Cookies, candy, eggnog are all available on the
center table. Wrapping paper is everywhere. People are
chatting, laughing, sipping wine and eating sweets. It's a
good time. The epitome of a fun-filled family Christmas.
Sam slips a $100 into the back pocket of Mark's jeans.

75 INT. ERIC’S OFFICE - MORNING 75

Sam sits across from Eric's desk. Sun reflects off glass
buildings in the background.
ERIC
 104.

Welcome back. How was your vacation?

SAM
Much needed.

ERIC
And the Hotel West visit?

SAM
That's what I came in to talk to you
about.

ERIC
Are you finished with the campaign
already?

SAM
Yes, but that's not what this
meeting is about.

ERIC
Well, I don't have all day.

SAM
You should know that one of their
employees violated my privacy, and I
will not work on their campaign
unless he's removed.
ERIC
What exactly did this employee do?

SAM
He assaulted me.

ERIC
Name?

SAM
Shane. He's the Head of Business
Operations. The one I met with all
weekend.

ERIC
Consider it done. I knew a promotion
would motivate some good, creative
work, but I planned to give it to
you this whole time.
SAM
You believe me?
ERIC
 105.

You've given me no reason not to.

And you're not looking to press
charges?

SAM
No. His reason for termination will
stand for itself.

ERIC
Well, congratulations Samantha.
You're officially going to spend the
next two weeks training our new
social media manager.

76 INT. APARTMENT - NIGHT 76

Gretchen, the barista, Amanda, David, Mark, Sam.... everyone
is celebrating with a glass of wine. The Times Square Ball
Drop is on the tv.
MARK
Cheers to Sam.

EVERYONE
Cheers!

TV
5, 4, 3, 2, 1... HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Gretchen and Barista kiss.

David and Amanda kiss.

Mark and Sam kiss.

FADE OUT:
106.
107.