Above the Dead...Season 1, Episode 4 "Jumping Ship"

Matthew desires to "jump ship" and takeover the tree house, where Sam and friends are surviving "above the dead"...

ABOVE THE DEAD . com

Season 1, Episode 4  (56 pages)

 

"Jumping Ship" 

 

INTRO

 

BLACK

 

Matthew's dad screaming, as he burns to death...

 

FADE IN:

 

INT. MATTHEW'S DAD'S HOUSE (flashback, day 1) - EVENING

 

Remains of his dad's deceased upper half (lower half burnt away). Tina (Jax), watching end of Matthew's video, and handing him his phone (in some shock). She looks over her dead father.

 

TINA

So...you're thinking that's going to happen, to him?

 

MATTHEW

I know it is. I've seen it happen to someone else.

As long as the brain is still intact.

 

Matthew's phone begins ringing. He ignores it. He moves in front of his dad, looking over his body, and speaking to him...

 

MATTHEW

Because death isn't good enough for you, is it, Dad?

All those years hating yourself, for what you are.

Yet, what you became, is even worse...(shouting at

his corpse) ISN'T IT? YOU PIECE OF S**T RAPIST!

 

Matthew spits on the corpse, then swigging from bottle of booze...

 

TINA

Matthew...that's the one thing he actually never did.

 

MATTHEW

No, not to you, big sis. You're not his type...

 

Tina a confused look at Matthew, who again begins speaking to his dad.

 

MATTHEW

Isn't that right, Dad? I mean, why go out and get

a boyfriend, when you can just keep what you

are, a secret…

 

Tina a shocked look, at Matthew, who paces the room, while swigging more booze...

 

DISSOLVE TO:

 

THEME TUNE/CREDITS

 

Shots of all the chaos in the city, on day 1 of the “zombie” apocalypse, followed by bumper-to-bumper traffic on the highways, and tons of angry/nervous people honking or trying to pull off the road. Shot of Mt. Hood, followed by shots of a huge tree house overlooking a lake, which dissolves into the Columbia River, and traveling down it, through a huge forest fire, before reaching the Bonneville Dam. POV continues down the river, past the Glen Jackson bridge, flowing by tons of houseboats where the dead are falling into the river, chasing after whoever is drifting by…

 

POV of the Willamette River as it goes under the St. Johns bridge, and up into the hills of Portland. It travels over them, into the Beaverton area, crossing over the top of the Nike World Headquarters, and keeps traveling over farmlands, and into the coast range, finding the Glenwood Market, and a large camp with log walls, across the creek and behind the store…

 

POV speeds over the Tillamook Forest, Highway 26, and a bunch of other lands, before coming to the Columbia River, traveling west, under the Megler bridge, and into the ocean. It continues along the shoreline, past Astoria, the Haystack Rock of Cannon Beach, coming to a pair of jetties, and following through the channel between them. POV continues up into the nearby hills, finding a large camp, protected by a large log wall…

 

POV travels back down to the shoreline, and over a huge hotel, with a shot of the Twin Rocks in the ocean. POV travels by the bay of Tillamook, and along Highway 6, back into the coast range, until leaving the road, back into the Tillamook Forest, until coming to a very large compound, hidden away by all the brush and mountain-side, as opening credits roll…

 

DISSOLVE TO:

 

EXT. LAKE - DAY

 

POV of the ever so peaceful lake, as night becomes morning, and morning becomes afternoon. The lake remains quiet. The rope swing hangs, just over the water, fairly motionless. The dock rests calmly, on the water...

 

POV panning over empty, beachy area, near rope swing. Panning back to Fish's grave, and over to shady area, where Amy stares at the lake, from a chair, next to Eli, Sam, and Jax (Tina)...

 

ELI

I don't even think I could ever wade my feet,

in the water, again.

 

SAM

My dad, ruined my entire summer, a few years

ago. He showed me Jaws, that year... Best movie

ever. But it wasn't until the following summer,

that I stopped thinking about that shark… A

great white is a picnic, compared to yesterday...

 

AMY

Swimming, was the one thing that felt normal.

Could almost forget for a moment, just what

kind of mess we're actually in.

 

Amy a glooming stare, out toward the lake...

 

JAX

Until that mess, swam right up into our freaking

laps, just to remind us.

 

POV panning off from them, and back toward lake.

 

ELI

(OS)

Where did they come from, is what I want to know.

 

Still panning over the lake…

 

AMY

(OS)

And what happened to them...

 

SAM

(OS)

Or could there be more?

 

ELI

(OS)

No, they would have come up, by now…right?

 

POV stops on water, where bubbles are surfacing...

POV goes underwater, down to bottom of lake, where Frank's zombie "granddaughter", is stuck in mud/lake debris...

 

CUT TO:

 

INT. FRANK/LISA'S CABIN - DAY

 

POV out broken window, as Rhett cautiously approaches, with a shotgun... 

 

RHETT

Hello? I come in peace. I've got a shotgun, but only

For my protection. Just seeing if you guys are alright.

Pretty sure I'm talking to myself, so...I'm coming in.

 

Cut to Rhett, at front door, discovering it's locked.

Cut to Rhett, discovering the same, of the backdoor.

Cut back to broken window, where Rhett climbs through. He begins looking around. He comes to see blankets on both sofas, in living room. Lots of things are knocked over. Some blood is on the floor...

 

Rhett goes into bedroom, finding blood on the love-seat, and floor. He notices bandages with blood, next to the bed.

 

Cut to Rhett, entering second bedroom, in shock, as he discovers remains (mostly bone) of a corpse, on the floor. He looks around the room, as he closes the door. He turns, and is violently punched in the face. He drops the gun, and falls to the floor. He looks up at a man (RAY), holding Rhett's shotgun, on him.

 

RAY

WHAT IN THE HELL DID YOU DO TO MY FAMILY?!

WHY IS THERE BLOOD EVERYWHERE?! WHAT

DID YOU DO?!

 

RHETT

NOTHING!

 

RAY

I go to find help for my wife, and come home

to this mess, and someone I don't know!

 

RHETT

I came here to find out, myself, what happened.

We were attacked yesterday; I thought maybe

the same thing happened here, after I saw the

broken window.

 

RAY

Attacked by who?!

 

RHETT

Not by who...by what.

 

Ray's lip trembling, fighting back the emotion of realizing what may have happened, to his family.

He lowers gun, and walks around the room.

 

RAY

ERICA?! MACEY?! Please, DAVID?!

 

He moves to front door (already open), and yells outward.

 

RAY

FRAAANNNNKKKK?!

 

Cut to Amy, and others, as they can faintly hear Ray, yelling.

 

RAY

(OS, from a distance)

ANNNNAAA?!

 

Cut back to Ray, now on his knees, as Rhett comes from behind...

 

RHETT

I watched my dad, have his head blown off, before

he was eaten, by the dead. Then I watched my

mom's head, blown off, after she'd become one

of the dead... I feel your pain...

 

RAY

(weeping)

They're just children...

 

RHETT

How old?

 

RAY

My girls are teens. (more weeping) My boy

is only eight.

 

Rhett closing his eyes, with dread...

 

DISSOLVE TO:

 

EXT. SHADY AREA (near gravesite) - DAY

 

POV through binoculars, of opposite side of the lake.

Amy using binoculars, standing next to Jax, Sam, and Eli. She hands binoculars to Jax.

 

AMY

Damn it, Rhett. Where are you?

 

ELI

You don’t see anyone, at all?

 

Amy shaking head, with a blank stare...

 

JAX

Maybe Rhett told them what happened, and

they're yelling for someone to come home,

or something.

 

AMY

It sounded like someone in agony.

 

JAX

We would have heard him shooting, if he

was in trouble.

 

They all stand there in silence, a moment...

 

AMY

Rhett and I, got into a huge argument the day

before this all happened...

 

Amy silent (as if done talking)... Jax a perplexed look at Amy, then at the others...

Amy finally goes on.

 

AMY

Seems like so long ago, and so meaningless... I'd

do anything to get back to a world, where the

only problem, was my husband losing his patience,

with his pregnant wife.

 

JAX

Well, there were plenty more problems in

the world, but I get your point.

 

Amy gazing toward the trail...

Suddenly, she takes notice of something, she becomes nervous...before relieved.

Ray approaching, on the trail, followed by Rhett. Ray is rushing, yet fighting dizziness.   

 

RHETT

Look, I don't know if you really want to see them.

 

RAY

I need to know it's them.

 

RHETT

It's not going to be pretty. Not even close...

We had to...stop them...

 

Amy a very curious look at Ray, as they walk past them. Now a questionable look to Rhett, who gestures, that it's okay.

 

RAY

Where are they?

 

RHETT

Over on the side of the cabin. In the brush,

next to the lake.

 

Ray going straight for the brush. Rhett stops for a moment, before following. Amy and the others, simply watch. Ray begins running. He goes into the brush. He can be heard weeping. He comes out, holding his dead son, David. He drops down to his knees, weeping uncontrollably...

 

Amy and Sam, crying. Jax comforting Sam. Rhett stands off away, from Ray, who eventually begins staring at Rhett, and his shotgun. Ray rises, going for Rhett.

 

RHETT

I'm sorry.

 

Ray walking right to him...

 

RAY

Kill me...kill me right now! (Rhett stunned)

SHOOT ME!

 

Amy and Sam, nervously crying. Rhett doesn't know what to do.

 

RAY

I SAID SHOOT ME, BOY!

 

Ray arriving to Rhett, pulling gun up toward his head.

 

RAY

DO IT! DO IT!! DO IT!!! I SAID DO IT!!!

DOOOO IIITTTTT!

 

AMY

(freaking out, crying)

No.

 

RAY

DO IT, GOD DAMN IT! DO IT! DO IT! DO IT! DO IT!

 

AMY

(yelling over him)

RHETT, just do it!

 

Ray closes his eyes. Rhett fires. Ray drops next to his dead son.

Amy/Sam in hysterics. Eli shaken up. Jax comforting Sam.

 

AMY

Why is there no help? Where are they? How can

this be happening? (Amy looking at Rhett) I can't

do it anymore, baby. I'm losing it.

 

Amy weeping... Sam frightened, to see Amy this way, while being held by Jax...

Everyone jumps, as Scott comes tearing out cabin door (no shirt, was just sleeping), nervously looking around, after hearing all the commotion, and the gunshot...

 

DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK (day 1)

 

INT. STORE - EVENING

 

Michael in the upstairs bedroom, looking around. He looks at a picture, of Tan and Frances, along with a bunch of friends (outside the store). Michael moves to window, looking out and around, and flinching, as Mark yells from downstairs.

 

MARK

HE'S GETTING CLOSER TO ME!

 

Cut to Michael, walking down the staircase, back into the store, where Mark and Greg are still tied up, next to zombie Vincent, who is relentless, with his attempts at Mark...

 

MARK

You have to move me, man!

 

MICHAEL

Not happening.

 

Michael pulls out this phone, and dialing...

 

MARK

Come on, man, please!

 

Michael waiting for an answer, on the phone...

 

MARK

If he gets loose, I'm screwed!

 

Michael hangs up, nervously shaking his head, trying to think...

 

GREG

I can tell you're not thrilled, with your brother's choices.

 

MICHAEL

I know you guys think my brother is the crazy one,

but that's simply because he's the stupid one. He's

also the loyal one. I can trust him with my life. But

me, I'm the survivor one. If he gets in the way of

that, then for his sake, he better not be trusting

me with his.

 

Greg optimistic, to hear that...

 

GREG

So, are you the smart one, or the less stupid one?

Because he's already gotten in the way of that.

Unharmed, we would have taken you both to the

compound, (with emotion in his voice, as he looks

toward his dad) but after this? How can we do

anything, to help you endanger our family?

 

MICHAEL

You're not getting what I'm saying...

 

Michael looking right at them, sincerely…

 

MICHAEL

If I kill the guy who did this to your father, will

you allow me the opportunity to contribute,

at your compound?

 

MARK

YES! Now please get me away from him!

 

MICHAEL

I will. But first, I have to know you two won't try to

kill me. I'm not a bad guy. I was almost killed on the

road, in that accident, watched the dead come back

alive, watched my brother shoot that poor cashier,

and now...this... He needs to be put down.

 

GREG

You can trust us. You untie us, and avenge our

father's death, and our family will welcome you,

with open arms.

 

Michael looking at them, pondering what to do...

 

MARK

You heard him, man; now please get me out of this.

 

GREG

You have my word.

 

MICHAEL

I believe you. I just...I'm just not sure how I take care

of him, if he gets here, and sees you guys loose...

 

MARK

Fine, but at least move my dad!

 

Michael nervously looking at zombie Vincent...

 

MICHAEL

How the hell do I do that? (shaking head) No,

I'm sorry, I can't. He's not within reach of you.

 

GREG

Then what's the plan here?

 

Michael moves toward window, looking out, as a car can be heard. It goes speeding by. Michael leaves window...

 

MICHAEL

He'll have more guns once he gets back, but he won't

be expecting to need them, as long as everything here

seems normal. Our sister will be with him, too. She's

no threat to you guys. She'll be shocked when I betray

Matthew, but she'll understand, once she knows what

he did, to your dad.

 

Greg nodding a bit, pondering the plan.

 

GREG

How will you do it?

 

MICHAEL

I don't know yet. Not in the back. I have to face

him. I have to tell him he brought it on, himself.

 

GREG

I'm sorry...sorry you have to do that...

 

MICHAEL

I'm sorry my brother killed your dad...

 

Michael's phone rings.

 

MICHAEL

(into phone)

You on your way, yet?....Yeah, don't worry, they

already told me where to find the compound.

But nothing about this so-called, closer place.

 

Michael pulling phone away, trying to redial (lost service).

 

MICHAEL

What the...

 

GREG

What happened?

 

MICHAEL

(shaking head)

I think I just lost service.

 

He goes to counter, reaching for landline phone, and checking it.

 

MICHAEL

Yep...

 

GREG

Society is crashing...

 

Mark an uneasy look at Greg. Michael pacing, looking outside, thinking...

 

MICHAEL

What's this other place, you guys were talking

about? Is it a better place to be, than here? I

mean, we do have food, and a generator, here.

 

Greg and Mark sharing a look...

 

GREG

It's my uncle's cabin. He's probably waiting for us

to arrive, so that we can all head to the compound.

 

MICHAEL

So, we have to stop there first, then. Will they be

alright with me?

 

GREG

If you do, what you say you're going to do, and

they'll think you're a hero.

 

MICHAEL

How far are they?

 

GREG

It won't take long to get there. Once we do, we'll

all be safer traveling with them.

 

MICHAEL

You think the roads will even be clear enough, to

reach wherever exactly this compound is?

 

MARK

It's not far, off of highway 6. They've got a helicopter,

so, hopefully they're scouting the roads for us.

 

MICHAEL

You have a freaking bird! And you honestly think

they're using it to scout the roads?

 

MARK

Our grandpa has a family plan of action, for this

sort of thing. Whatever the hell this sort of thing

is. But yes, that's a part of the plan. Using the

"bird" to ensure safe travel, for those evacuating

to the compound.

 

MICHAEL

Yet, now we have no way to communicate with them.

 

MARK

We have walkie-talkies in the car.

 

MICHAEL

Jesus...quite the fanatical family, aren't ya’?

 

GREG

And how convenient that is, for you.

 

MICHAEL

Indeed...

 

Greg studying Michael, as much as he can...

 

MICHAEL

So, uh, you guys want some food? Something

to drink?

 

MARK

Water, please.

 

GREG

The same...

 

Michael grabbing two waters, and an energy drink. He brings waters to them, while swigging from the energy drink. Greg watching him, studying him...

 

MICHAEL

So...I've never killed anyone, before...how

about you guys?

 

GREG

You sure you're up for this?

 

MICHAEL

I'm not missing a chance at meeting this family...

 

Greg still watching him, as he and Mark drink water…

 

MICHAEL

So, where exactly is the cabin, we have to stop at?

 

MARK

A few miles from - (cutoff)

 

GREG

Mark...(shaking head at him)

 

MICHAEL

What?

 

Greg just silently looking at him. Mark looking at Greg...

 

GREG

He's lying to us...coning us...

 

MARK

What?

 

MICHAEL

I guess I don't blame you, for being skeptical, but

can I ask what I said, that suddenly has you so

concerned?

 

GREG

This is too much good cop/bad cop. You're totally

working us, and it'll be your brother's death,

before I believe any differently.

 

MICHAEL

(changing demeanor)

I wouldn't have survived growing up, without my

brother. We got through it all, together. I would

never hurt my baby brother.

 

Greg and Mark with disappointment over their faces...

 

DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME

 

EXT. FISH'S PORCH - DAY

 

Everyone on the porch, with gloomy/distraught expressions. Scott looks exhausted. Amy simply stares ahead, with a blank expression.

 

SCOTT

So...I'm going to go ahead and say it. I know the

plan is to wait it out, for Sam's family or military

assistance…But, after this...and with how long it

may take for help to come...we need to at least

explore what other options, we may have.

 

JAX

It was really quiet out there, when I was exploring...

 

SCOTT

You were on foot. I think I should take Eli,

and drive around some.

 

RHETT/ELI

Why, Eli?

 

SCOTT

Need a man, here with the others. I need someone

who can have my back, out there. I know you're

only thirteen, Eli, but you're a big kid. You're not

going to be easy for people to mess with.

 

ELI

I got this... Do I get to take a gun?

 

SCOTT

(looking at Rhett)

You showed him the basics, right?

 

Rhett nodding, as Scott hands Eli a gun.

 

SCOTT

It's time we all start doing what it takes, to survive

this...We'll be going through town, to see if the

military has been through there, at all. Then I

know a few places worth checking out.

 

RHETT

What if you run into aggressive people? A big

group of them?

 

SCOTT

I think the longer we wait, the riskier something

like that, actually is. Aggression will grow, the

longer this thing goes on for. As will the amount

of dead people, which is why you guys should

get to work, on digging today.

 

JAX

Digging?

 

RHETT

You still want to build the shelter?

 

 

SCOTT

Eventually. First, we need a giant pit, over by the

tree house. One we can lead the dead into, when

they show up. No more wasting ammo, on them.

 

ELI

Huffs...no more wasting ammo, on huffs.

 

Sam smiling…

 

RHETT

I like it. We'll get started on it, now.

 

SCOTT

Perfect.

 

Scott leading Eli toward truck...

 

CUT TO:

 

INT/EXT. SCOTT'S TRUCK - DAY

 

Eli handling his gun, becoming familiar with it, as Scott drives.

 

SCOTT

Alright, heads up. About to enter town.

 

ELI

Oh my God, there goes a huff right here!

 

Cut outside of truck, driving by the huff, as it walks in direction of them.

 

SCOTT

That's what I mean right there. Keep your eyes

open, tell me anything you see.

 

POV of small mountain town, as they slowly drive through. It's in decent shape, compared to what most cities would now look like. Some houses even have people peeking out, behind boarded up windows. An occasional huff, here and there.

They speed up, as they come to a house, where a man with a shotgun is shooting a huff, several times, before making the kill shot.

 

ELI

We should go back!

 

SCOTT

We're okay, but yeah…obviously no military

help, here...

 

Truck speeding out of town...

 

CUT TO:

 

Truck slowing down. Scott's POV of two young children (a boy and a girl), walking alone on the road. He and Eli share a look, as he pulls over, close by the children. He and Eli cautiously climb out of truck (engine still running).

 

SCOTT

Are you two, okay?

 

The children look extremely scared/nervous. and don't speak...

 

SCOTT

Where's your parents?

 

A man and a teenager, suddenly rise from the brush, aiming guns right at Scott and Eli, and quickly walk right up to them. The mother of the children, comes running to them (from other side of road), and holding them close. Scott and Eli hold up their hands, as the men grab their guns, and the family all go straight for the truck...

 

MAN

Sorry. I love my family, and my family needs

your truck.

 

The mother and her children, with solemn looks, at Scott and Eli, as they drive away...

 

SCOTT

FUUU

 

CUT TO:

 

EXT. TREE HOUSE - DAY

 

Close-up of shovel scooping dirt, panning back as Rhett, Jax, and Sam, work hard (all shoveling), at the beginning process, of a large pit (partially hidden by brush)...

 

JAX

I'm proud of you, Sam. Most ten-year-olds, would

sit in the shade with the pregnant lady, watching.

 

SAM

I'm not most ten-year olds. I worked hard the

day we built that tree house, up there. I'm not

afraid of hard work. It's good for you.

 

JAX

You remind me of myself, at your age. If I didn't

do things around the house, things didn't get

done. My dad was a drunk...

 

SAM

My uncle Leo, has that problem.

 

JAX

Drinking?

 

SAM

Yeah. I hate it...

 

JAX

You and me both, kiddo. You and me both.

 

Suddenly, they all freeze, as a noise comes from somewhere near. Sounds like someone walking. Rhett drops shovel, instantly going for gun.

 

They all wait and watch, as eventually a man and woman (with backpacks), are approaching the cabin. They don't seem to notice Rhett, Jax, or Sam, as they keep their eyes on the cabin. The man spots the tree house, and then freezes, as he takes notice of Rhett and the others. The woman stops, and looks. Rhett makes his gun noticeable.

 

MAN

We're sorry for trespassing. We didn't think anyone

was here. (backing away) We're moving on. 

 

JAX

(looking at Rhett)

What if they come back?

 

RHETT

(sarcastically)

Should I go kill them?

 

Sam a look from Rhett, to Jax...

 

JAX

Of course not. We just have to keep an eye out,

now. People are going to want this tree house.

 

RHETT

Are they going to risk their lives for it?

 

JAX

Some will. More and more, as time goes on.

 

SAM

People will want to be “above the dead”…

Tree houses could be the way of the future...

 

Sam pondering that thought...

 

CUT TO:

 

EXT. MOUNTAIN ROAD - DAY

 

Scott and Eli, walking along road (carrying sharp sticks)...

 

ELI

Regardless of how rich Sam's family is, they aren't

going to be able to make it here, are they?

 

SCOTT

I'd think they would. I'm just worried it'll take

some time. And what we just experienced, that

kind of thing will catch up with us, even at the

tree house...sooner or later.

 

ELI

So, you think people will try to take it from us?

Like they just did your truck?

 

SCOTT

Eventually, yes...

 

ELI

Don't we have an advantage? Being up there?

Shooting anyone who tries to take it?

 

SCOTT

Maybe for a while. Maybe not. But if people are

willing to use their own kids, as bait...who knows

what else they'll try... Not to mention, we don’t

have a ton of ammo.

 

ELI

I wish DJ was here. We could use him. I wish

my dad was here. He'd know what to do.

 

SCOTT

I wish that, too...

 

Suddenly, a vehicle can be heard, approaching. Eli a nervous look at Scott.

 

ELI

Do we hide?!

 

Scott hesitant on what to do, as it becomes too late, to hide. He takes notice of it being a military vehicle.

 

SCOTT

It's military!

 

Scott and Eli anxiously waiting for them to stop, but they simply drive right past, and even aim guns at them.

 

TROOPER

They're alive...for now...

 

Soldier remains aimed at them, as they pass by. Scared/disappointed and shocked, Scott and Eli watch them go by.

 

ELI

I thought they were going to shoot us?!

 

Scott just standing there, in shock...

 

CUT TO:

 

EXT. TREE HOUSE PIT - DAY

 

Rhett and Jax, still hard at work (pit deeper), while Sam sits (dirty/sweaty face) with some water, taking a break.

 

RHETT

You know, once we use this pit, to catch some of

those things, we could use them as scarecrows.

Tie them up close by, or something. That'd scare

people off, wouldn't it?

 

JAX

I'm starting to like the way you think...very twisted!

 

RHETT

We need to study them. I'm curious what would

happen, if we were in the tree house, with fifty of

them below, and they knew we were up there.

Would they just stay there waiting, for us? Or,

eventually go on?

 

SAM

You really think we'll see that many, up here?

 

RHETT

Hopefully not. I can't imagine how bad it is in the

city, but up here, I don't see it getting that bad.

 

JAX

Until more people begin dying...

 

Some silence…

 

SAM

Shouldn't they have been back by now?

 

AMY

(OS)

That's what I was thinking.

 

RHETT

You guys keep thinking that way, and you'll just

torture yourselves. They really haven't been

gone that long.

 

JAX

Sam, tell me more about your family. Just to get

your mind off other things. I know Zane is your

favorite. Scout too. Dakota? Is that Zane's sister?

 

SAM

Yeah.

 

JAX

You seem to mention her a lot, too. They have

how many other siblings?

 

SAM

Zane is twenty-six, and the oldest. Troy is twenty-

four, and engaged to Angela, who is pregnant.

Kate is twenty-three, Dakota twenty-one, and

Jagger is nineteen.

 

JAX

Wow, you must really care about them all, to

remember their ages, so well. Can you name

the entire family and ages, like that?

 

SAM

Easy. Hunter's forty-nine, his wife April, is

younger. They got married at the compound.

Miles...is...or...was, thirty...

 

Sam unable to go on...

 

JAX

Sorry. Was trying to take your mind off one

thing, guess I brought it to another.

 

SAM

It's okay. I just keep forgetting about him...

because of my dad.

 

JAX

Must be nice...having so many people to care about.

 

SAM

Or to worry about...

 

DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK (day 1)

 

INT. STORE - NIGHT

 

Close-up Mark, screaming for his life, panning back to zombie Vincent, inches away from his neck. Matthew holds a leash, which holds Vincent (his lower half still tied down next to Mark), and continues to allow him closer and closer, to Mark's flesh.

 

 

MARK

STOP! STOP IT, NOW!!!

 

GREG

I'M GOING TO KILL YOU!

 

MATTHEW

TELL ME, NOW!

 

MARK

YES, YES, I'LL TELL YOU! Just please pull him away!

 

Matthew pulling back Vincent. Michael helps hold him down, as Matthew ties the leash, keeping Vincent out of Mark's reach...

 

DISSOLVE TO:

 

INT. STORE UPSTAIRS BEDROOM - NIGHT

 

Matthew, Michael, and Tina, (Jax) in bedroom discussing options.

 

TINA

A single father and a ten-year-old. I'm great with

kids, and even better with single fathers. I got this.

 

MICHAEL

You got your back-story, down?

 

TINA

Traveled up here with you guys, got stuck in the

traffic jam, got separated from both of you, and

am starving.

 

MICHAEL

And your brothers are all that you had, in the

world. Make them feel sorry for you, and that

you have nowhere to go.

 

TINA

Got it.

 

MATTHEW

We'll give you at least a few hours, to bond. When

we do show up, act shocked to see us. We'll say

we found a car, and have been searching for you.

 

MICHAEL

Maybe mention someone took you in, for the

night. Some frightened people, who asked you

to leave in the morning. It'll make you appear

trustworthy.

 

MATTHEW

No, don't complicate things for her.

 

MICHAEL

This family is smart. That guy down there can

smell BS, a mile away. His dad was a clever

one, too.

 

MATTHEW

So clever he got himself killed. (looking at Tina)

Just be the actor you've always been. You're a

natural, baby sis.

 

MICHAEL

We should get some rest. We want to get her

there early.

 

TINA

Early!? Okay this plan just erupted, and I'm calling

for an evacuation. How am I supposed to sleep? I

just got up, a  few hours ago.

 

MICHAEL

Good, you can help Matthew guard, then. I'm

gonna’ crash, for a few.

 

Michael laying back in the bed, as Matthew/Tina exit room.

 

TINA

(joking)

You guys got anything good to eat, here?

 

Cut to downstairs, to Greg and Mark.. Vincent is still close by, reaching for Mark, who now has a small amount breathing room.

 

MARK

I'm sorry, Greg. I couldn't help it.

 

GREG

It's okay, I would have done the same thing.

 

MARK

No, you wouldn't have. Dad must be so ashamed

of me.

 

GREG

All Dad cares about right now, is that we find a

way out of this. I think I can get loose by morning.

 

MARK

Serious? I'm not even close... You think they'll even

keep us alive, till morning?

 

GREG

They won't kill us, until they know for sure they

can find Fish. We have till at least morning,

probably afternoon.

 

TINA

(OS)

Now this is what I call an end-of-the-world

party, you don't even have to BYOB!

 

Tina opening cooler doors, reaching for some beer. Matthew gathering some grub. Tina doing the same. Greg and Mark watch her. She heads to table, sitting. She begins eating, while staring at the huff's relentless effort, to reach Mark. Greg and Mark staring at her. Matthew taking a seat next to her.

 

TINA

It never gets tired, does it? It just keeps trying,

until something gives. (looking at Matthew) What

happens when something gives?

 

MATTHEW

The dumbass on the radio, thinks you become infected,

because he still thinks they're sick, and not dead. So, I

don't know... (just staring at Mark and Greg, speaking

quietly) But we sure need to find out.

 

Tina looking over both Mark and Greg.

 

TINA

Damn...I was so impressed, you two took over a

convenient store, that I didn't even notice the hot

guy, you have tied up. Guess the dead guy, kinda

threw me off.

 

Tina walking over to Greg, with an extra beer, and offering it to him.

 

TINA

A nice cold one? (looking back at Matthew) You

did feed these poor b******s, didn't you?

 

MATTHEW

Chow time was on Michael's shift.

 

Tina looking at the can, next to Greg.

 

TINA

Really? You're making them piss in a can?

 

MATTHEW

They already resulted to violence, once today.

Bathroom breaks are almost guaranteed trouble.

 

TINA

Well, this one is cute. I just may have to take

my chances with him, later.

 

Tina walking back to Matthew, at table...

 

DISSOLVE TO:

 

INT. STORE BACKROOM - NIGHT

 

Matthew and Tina, going through backroom stock...

 

MATTHEW

This is why I hate leaving this place. We can't just

leave all this behind.

 

TINA

We should pile it all up. Maybe even begin stashing

it somewhere, close by the cabin, until you guys

show up. You're going to use an abandoned store,

as part of your story, anyhow. Be hard to turn you

guys down, if you show up with all these supplies.

 

MATTHEW

Thinking this family has plenty of their own supplies.

But yeah, we should stash some tomorrow. Michael

said a few more cars pulled in, while I was gone. I'm

gonna’ check out some potential new homes, in case

we need to bail. Someplace with less visitors.

 

MARK

(OS)

Hey, he's getting closer to me! You guys HAVE to move

him, please!

 

Matthew a smile at Tina...

 

TINA

You really gonna’ make those two poor b******s

spend the night, tied up next to Hannibal Lecture?

 

MATTHEW

Don't believe everything you hear on the radio, sis.

At least not until you see it with your own eyes.

 

TINA

So, what are you waiting for?

 

MATTHEW

Like I just said, to see it with my own eyes. I wanna’

make sure what they told us, is true.

 

TINA

Then let's go now. Why wait till morning?

 

MATTHEW

Screw messing around out there, in the dark. Besides,

we have to hold down the fort. We jump ship now,

we might land in water.

 

TINA

Give me the...

 

Suddenly power/lights go out. A few emergency lights come on, but store remains fairly dark.

 

TINA

What the...

 

Matthew reaches for a flashlight.

 

MATTHEW

Michael called it. I hate when he's right. There's

a generator out back.

 

Turning on flashlight and leading Tina out, into store section, as Mark begins freaking out.

 

MARK

Oh S**T HE'S LOOSE, HE'S LOOSE! GET HIM OFF ME, GET

HIM OFF ME!!!

 

GREG

GET OUT HERE! GET OUT, NOW!

 

Matthew shines light at Mark, just as Vincent comes within an inch from biting his neck. Matthew running toward him, with flashlight.

 

MARK

AHHHH! HE GOT ME! HE FREAKING BIT ME!

 

GREG

HELP HIM!!!

 

Matthew shines light on Mark's wound (shoulder), as Vincent goes for his neck. Matthew finds and pulls on leash, just in time to prevent another bite. He hands flashlight to Tina. Mark's in a ton of pain.

 

MATTHEW

Quit crying, it's just a flesh wound.

 

Tina turns, to shine light on Michael, as he races down the stairs...

 

MICHAEL

What's happening?!

 

MATTHEW

Go get that damn generator going.

 

Dissolve to later, with store lights back on. Matthew/Tina leading Vincent (using 2 leashes), out door, and latching him just out of reach, from the door...

 

MATTHEW

Now, that's what I'm talking about. Even someone as

cray-cray as myself, wouldn't come shopping here.

 

TINE

(laughing)

Shopping! You’re funny!

 

Matthew staring at him a moment. He reaches into his pocket, pulling out a candy bar. He opens it, and places it right up to Vincent's mouth.

 

TINA

What are you doing?

 

Vincent goes around it, and right for his wrist, as he quickly pulls it away.

 

MATTHEW

Are you God damn kidding me?! Even with chocolate

under your nose, you still prefer flesh?!

 

Tina laughs, and follows Matthew back inside.

 

MATTHEW

Now, I've seen it all...

 

Matthew entering store, where Mark cries out in agony, as Michael looks over the wound...

 

GREG

Come on! At least bandage it up for him!

 

Matthew heading toward backroom.

 

MATTHEW

Don't even touch that thing. Could be contagious, or

something. Wait, no. Actually, go ahead and bandage

it up. If he dies, I wanna’ know it was from the bite,

and not an infection.

 

Matthew enters backroom, walking straight to a pile of powder, lying by some of his things. He snorts it right up, feeling rejuvenated…

 

DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME

 

EXT. MOUNTAIN ROAD - DAY

 

Scott/Eli walking road...

A car comes. They cautiously watch as it speeds up, while passing them...

 

ELI

I wish Sam was here...

 

SCOTT

Yeah? I keep hearing how fond of you, she's

becoming. Didn't realize the feeling was mutual.

 

ELI

What?! No! I just meant too bad she's not here,

because we could use her, the same way those

people used their kids.

 

SCOTT

Wow...Not even a week into this new world,

and you're becoming corrupt, already?

 

ELI

Why do you say that?

 

SCOTT

Because anyone who'd stop, would be good,

honest people. Or else they wouldn't stop. You

really want to take advantage of people like that?

 

ELI

No...But what if it meant us or them?

 

Silence a moment...

 

SCOTT

Then you get creative...and find a way to

save everyone...

 

Walking on, in silence...

 

ELI

I think my dad would disagree with you...

I'm not saying I do, just that he probably

would have. I keep thinking about what

he'd be doing, or saying, if he were here...

 

More silence...

 

SCOTT

Do you agree with what he'd be doing, or saying?

 

Little more silence...

 

ELI

I don't know... He joked a lot. Sometimes I

couldn't tell how serious he was, when he

said some of the things, he said...

 

Scott chuckles.

 

SCOTT

He definitely made me laugh.

 

ELI

He either made you laugh, or if you didn't get him,

he offended you…is what my mom always said.

 

SCOTT

Well, then maybe some of those things he said,

he wasn't so serious about. 

 

ELI

Maybe...

 

CUT TO:

 

EXT. TREE HOUSE PIT - DAY

 

Pit is much deeper, as Rhett, Jax, and Sam (completely sweaty/dirty), continue working.

 

SAM

And finally, after nothing but uncles, I have my Aunt

Scout, who is forty, and three more cousins, Hope

eighteen, Ryder seventeen, and Bryant fifteen.

There’s also my Aunt Barb. She and her husband are

already safe at the compound. She’s Hunter’s ex-wife.

They still get along really well.

 

JAX

I can't believe I come from nothing, and you come

from all that. Even exes getting along. One lucky girl!

 

Jax shaking her head, as Amy approaches with concern...

 

AMY

Something happened. They should have been

back, by now.

 

RHETT

I'm trying not to think about it. Not even sure

what we can do about it.

 

AMY

I'm sure Sam wouldn't mind if we used her

dad's car, to go look.

 

RHETT

I just don't see the point. At least not yet.

 

SAM

I have to stay here, in case my family shows up.

 

AMY

You don't see the point? You don't see the point,

in your own little brother?

 

RHETT

Amy.

 

AMY

What? Am I overreacting? Did I not see human

swimming monsters, trying to eat us yesterday?

And that guy, (getting emotional) that poor guy.

I can't go through it, Rhett. I can't go through

what he did. (Rhett climbing out of pit) Cause

that's what the "point" is. I can't lose everyone.

I can't survive that. Not your brother, not my

dad, no one!

 

Rhett holding her tight, as she takes a deep, deep breath...

 

RHETT

I'm doing everything I can, to prevent that.

 

AMY

I know you are. I'm sorry...

 

Rhett leading her away.

 

RHETT

Come on, let's get you a cold drink...God knows

I need one.

 

AMY

You need a shower.

 

JAX

For the record though, I agree with Rhett.

 

AMY

Because you're a b***h...

 

Sam a wild look at Jax, as Amy and Rhett walk on...

 

JAX

(talking to Sam)

I just meant like you said, we need to stay here. We

have to be smart now, not emotional and paranoid.

SAM

She's just pregnant. She'll be fine, once she gets to

the compound.

 

Both climbing out of pit, and walking toward lake.

 

JAX

You guys have a doctor there?

 

Sam looking at Jax.

 

SAM

We have a hospital.

 

Jax excitedly impressed.

 

JAX

Holy apocalypse! How can this place be that great?

 

SAM

Zane always said the apocalypse was like Christmas,

to Grandpa. Grandpa always said the compound was

for the family, of the future. For my kids, or their kids.

He said he'd rest well in the afterlife, knowing his family

had a fighting chance, if things did go bad. I don’t think

he actually expected it to happen so fast…or even in his

lifetime.   

 

JAX

What an amazing guy. I just can't believe I'm lucky

enough to have met you. Your family seems like a

dream. End of the world, or not.

 

Sam looking ahead at the lake.

 

SAM

We're not really walking to the lake, to wash

up, are we?

 

They both stop, and stare at it. Then Jax looks at the cabin...

 

JAX

You guys have a hose, right?

 

Sam nodding, as they both turn and begin walking toward cabin...

 

Cut to the cabin, as Rhett places down a plate/sandwich, in front of Amy.

 

AMY

And there's just something off about Jax,

don't you think?

 

RHETT

What do you mean?

 

AMY

She's all over Sam, for one thing. Asking all these

questions about her family, as if that's the only

reason she's interested in her. And does she scare

at all? She's not the least bit freaked out, about

anything. You, Eli, even Dad, you've all been

traumatized and shutdown, with shock. It's like

she's already used to it. She's seen more than

she's sharing. I just don't know why...

 

Rhett beginning to grin at her...

 

RHETT

There's my sexy, psychiatric specialist. You know

I love it when you analyze, the way you do.

 

Amy trying to muster a smile, before going on.

 

AMY

Then you know I'm right.

 

RHETT

Yeah, but you said it yourself, you don't know

why. She might just not want to talk about it.

 

AMY

(shaking head)

No, I don't think that's it. An option, sure. But, (again

shaking head) it's something else, with her...

 

RHETT

A little jealous, maybe? Sam seems to like her.

 

Amy in shock...

 

AMY

I adore that child! I love that child, and I don't

care who her family is!

 

RHETT

I know, I know. I just think Jax is harmless.

I also think we need her.

 

AMY

I think you should check her stuff.

 

RHETT

I already did, the day she got here.

 

AMY

Check it again. Maybe she was expecting us to check.

 

Suddenly, Jax (followed by Sam) can be heard screaming outside, as Rhett goes flying out of kitchen. Amy goes toward window, with a look, then following after Rhett.

 

Cut to cabin door, where Rhett comes speeding out, hopping off porch, running around side of cabin, where Jax/Sam, continue to scream.

 

Rhett suddenly stops, watching. Amy comes from behind him, also stopping. Suddenly, water from the hose, sprays them both, as screams (from Jax/Sam) turn to laughter.

 

POV Jax and Sam (soaking wet), as Jax turns, to spray Rhett and Amy.

 

JAX

It's not the lake, but it gets the job done!

 

Sam, suddenly becoming even more happy/excited.

 

POV Eli arriving, and more than anxious to be sprayed down, as Jax turns the hose on him. Amy (super relieved), turns to see her dad arriving, as she runs into his arms.

 

AMY

Oh, thank God! What happened?

 

SCOTT

We're okay.

 

Amy coming out of hug, looking at her dad.

 

RHETT

Where's the truck?

 

Scott taking a deep breath, with a look of dread.

 

SCOTT

Just a second. Hey Jax...

 

Scott putting up his arms (needing to be cooled off). Jax begins spraying him, to his relief...

 

DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK (day 1)

 

EXT. STORE PARKING LOT - NIGHT

 

Vincent (huff), becoming excited, as someone appears to be approaching him.

 

POV swastika tattoo, panning back, to the guy who killed Fish, as he approaches the store (with knife).

Suddenly, he is fired on, as he runs for his life, back toward car, along with his two friends, as they all jump in and drive away...

 

Cut inside store, to Matthew.

 

MATTHEW

I can't believe that crazy a*s, tried coming in here.

(looking at Michael) You gonna’ be able to handle

this, by yourself, tomorrow? (now looking at Mark)

Maybe he'll be dead by then, and we can double up

at the door. (with laugh) Or just tie em' all out there,

and see what kind of a looney tune it takes, to

approach that mess.

 

GREG

You're going to wish we were still alive, after you

fail to do whatever you plan on doing to my uncle.

Your only chance of seeing that compound, is by

freeing us. (looking at Michael and Tina) You do

that, and put a bullet in your brothers head...and

you’ll have your tickets to said compound.

 

Matthew putting his arms around Tina.

 

MATTHEW

Michael said you already played those cards. Good

luck with dear old sis. She actually kind of liked my

dad, yet watched me set his a*s on fire, without

dispute. She's going to steal your uncle's heart, is

what she's going to do, and get her loving brothers,

right on into "said" compound. 

 

Greg sharing a look with Tina. A look that gave him hope. He turns to look at Mark, who is becoming feverish...

 

DISSOLVE TO: FLASHBACK (day 2)

 

Same POV of Mark, from previous scene, as night gives way to early morning. Both he and Greg, are now asleep. Mark more feverish than before...

 

Greg wakes up. He looks to his brother. He feels his forehead, with a concerned look, coming over his face. He looks over at Michael (asleep), at counter.

He glances outside, where Vincent is quietly pacing around. Suddenly, Greg is aware of something in his pocket. He pulls out a nutrition bar, with a folded piece of paper, taped to it. He unfolds it, and reads.

 

POV note.

 

NOTE

Eat! I want you to survive. I will do my best to warn

your uncle, and lead him to you. I hope to get to

know you better. Love, Tina.

 

Greg not sure what to think...

 

DISSOLVE TO: 

 

EXT. HOUSE - DAWN

 

POV of smaller/older home, in private area, without nearby neighbors. Matthew's car is parked outside. Tina walks from car, over to front door of house, and knocks...

 

Cut inside, to a man, with shotgun (dark inside, no lights on), quietly coming to his front door, and peeking out the boarded-up window.

His POV of Tina, standing on other side of door. She knocks. He stays back, quietly and ready to use his shotgun, if necessary. She knocks one more time, loudly.

 

TINA

(OS)

Please, help us! My brother has been bit. I have food

and supplies, but I need your help with my brother!

 

He watches her turn back toward car. Man turns around, coming face to face with Matthew, who immediately sticks a knife in his gut.

 

MATTHEW

That's for not helping her brother, you piece of s**t!

 

Man drops to floor, dead/dying. Matthew opens locked door. Tina smiles, and comes back to door. She enters, and looks down at the guy. He is wearing a Portland Trailblazers jersey (same man who was a huff, in episode 2, and attacked Scott, before Rhett chopped his head off, and tried to drown in the lake).

Matthew begins strapping leashes on him.

 

TINA

You had to kill him?

 

MATTHEW

I'm sorry, did you want to do it? Don't worry,

you'll get your chance.

 

TINA

What you mean?

 

MATTHEW

We'll set him loose, at their place. You show up

and save the day.

 

TINA

Are you kidding me? With what?

 

MATTHEW

Here, help me move over there, to tie him up. (Tina

begins helping) Do it with a gun. You try it with a

knife, you might get bit. Plus, when they see you

know how to use a gun, they'll know you're a keeper.

 

TINA

I guess I can do that.

 

MATTHEW

Just blow his head off. And don't miss, or he'll bite

yours off.

 

TINA

You're sure he'll definitely die?

 

MATTHEW

What's it matter? You blow his damn head off,

and he can no longer bite you.

 

TINA

Just creepy, thinking about.

 

MATTHEW

Come on, let’s unpack all the goods.

 

Matthew heading out door, while pulling out walkie talkie, and calling out to Michael.

 

 

MATTHEW

(into radio)

We have our backup ship. Unpacking, and then

en route to meet our new family.

 

MICHAEL

(over radio)

Rodger that...

 

DISSOLVE TO:

 

EXT. NEAR TREE HOUSE - DAY (morning)

 

Matthew turning radio down, before speaking to his brother, very quietly.

 

MATTHEW

(into radio)

We have eyes on the mother ship. Good old Mark

was telling the truth. If he actually lives, we'll give

him a quick death. We're moving in for a better

view. cray-cray out.

 

Tina walking to guy in trail blazer jersey (now a huff), who is tied up, by the leash.

 

MICHAEL

(over radio)

Just be smart, not cray-cray...

 

MATTHEW

(talking to Tina)

Just leave him there, for now.

 

DISSOLVE TO:

 

POV through binoculars, of Fish (as a huff), walking around near the tree house...

 

MATTHEW

(OS)

Son of a b***h...

 

TINA

(OS)

What?

 

Matthew reaching for phone from his pocket (Mark's phone). He pulls up picture of Fish and Sam. He then looks through binoculars again.

 

MATTHEW

Greg is going to be so disappointed. His high and

mighty uncle, is not so tough, after all.

 

Tina grabbing binoculars and looking for herself.

 

TINA

You're saying that's him? Uncle Fishy?

 

Tina looking at the picture...

 

TINA

Must not be a recent photo...

 

Matthew squinting eyes, taking notice of something, and reaching for binoculars.

 

MATTHEW

Wait a minute. Who the hell is this?

 

POV through binoculars, of an old lady (with a suitcase), approaching Fish. The lady (Mrs. Pederson) walks right to him.

 

TINA

(OS)

Is she dead, already, or...

 

POV remains through binoculars, as Fish bites into Mrs. Pederson, who screams, loudly, followed by a second weaker one, as she quickly fades away, and Fish begins gobbling down her body.

 

Tina ripping the binoculars from Matthew, and looking.

 

MATTHEW

Where the hell is the girl?

 

TINA

Is he going to eat her whole?

 

POV through binoculars.

 

MATTHEW

(OS)

Wait! Look up in the tree house! I think I see

her, peeking out.

 

Binoculars move to tree house, finding Sam peeking downward at the scene, before quickly looking away.

 

TINA

(OS)

Bingo...

 

POV Matthew.

 

MATTHEW

Well, if this just doesn't work perfectly. She's all alone,

all we have to do is babysit, until her family shows up.

 

TINA

We?

 

MATTHEW

Yeah, look at this place. It's perfect. Grab that generator,

all the food, and either make a life here, with our new

baby sister, or our new family, at the compound...if they

actually make it here.

 

Matthew looks at Tina, as she comes out from binoculars, with a tear running down her face...

 

MATTHEW

What the s**t? Are you kidding me? Everything you've

been through in life, yet you're feeling pity on this kid?

 

TINA

It's not like I'm trying to. I mean...she didn't just lose

her dad, she's watching him go to freaking brunch, on

that old woman... Guess I'm not as “Tin Man”, as you.

 

MATTHEW

(shaking head)

You big softy.

 

TINA

Just getting into character, before I become the

guardian of a ten-year-old.

 

MATTHEW

Yeah well, due to the circumstances, motherhood

is gonna’ have to be put on hold, for a few hours.

 

TINA

Why is that? Shouldn't I go up there, now?

 

MATTHEW

(shaking head)

Now that we're ditching the store, we'll need your

help gathering everything.

 

TINA

And what? Just hope for the best, when it comes

to her safety?

 

MATTHEW

She'll be fine. The dead are too...dead, I guess,

to climb ladders, or he would have gone up

there, already.

 

Matthew heads away, as Tina follows.

 

TINA

What about your friend?

 

MATTHEW

Leave him here. We'll set him free, and kill him

in front of the kid. She'll tell her family, and

make us heroes.

 

CUT TO:

 

INT. STORE - DAY

 

Greg's head in his hands. He looks up as Matthew/Tina enter store, with looks down at him and Mark. Mark completely feverish, and out of it.

 

MATTHEW

Still human, eh?

 

MICHAEL

Not for much longer.

 

MATTHEW

Smells like he messed his diaper.

 

MICHAEL

I believe he did.

 

MATTHEW

Mother of the year here, can change it. You know

this sappy sister of yours, actually shed a damn tear,

over her soon-to-be foster daughter?

 

Greg looking up, with concern.

 

GREG

Why? What do you mean, foster child?

 

Matthew looking at Michael.

 

MATTHEW

You didn't fill him in? (now speaking to Greg) We

caught your Fish, but had to throw him back. He

wasn't alive, enough. Although, alive enough to

be snacking on that poor old woman, he killed

with his bare teeth.

 

Greg hanging his head, as Michael follows Matthew into backroom.

 

MICHAEL

You look like s**t. You need some sleep.

 

MATTHEW

I need coffee...some like it black, some like it white...

 

They disappear into backroom. Greg looks up at Tina, who's staring back down at him, with concern.

 

GREG

Is he really dead?

 

TINA

(nodding)

But your cousin is okay.

 

GREG

Oh my God, Samantha. How okay can she be?

 

Tina kneeling down, speaking quietly, near his ear.

 

TINA

I'm not gonna’ let anything happen to her. Treat

her like my own kid. When the time is right, I'll

take care of my brothers.

 

Greg a very serious look at her...

 

GREG

You do that...then you better do one more thing...

survive! Because you're mine, I'm yours and no one,

I mean no one, will ever lay a damn hand on you again.

 

Tina with emotion in her eyes, leans in for a kiss. He places his hands on her face. She comes out of kiss, staring back at him.

 

GREG

(his hands still on her face)

Other than me...

 

Tina can't help but to smile, and has to wipe away a tear, as she rises and heads to backroom. While en route to backroom, she flashes to a memory, of childhood.

 

DISSOLVE TO: CHILDHOOD MEMORY

 

INT. BEDROOM - NIGHT

 

Tina (about 13) at her door (cracked open), listening to the sound of Matthew, being beaten (downstairs), by their father. He is crying/hurting, and begging his dad to stop...

 

Eventually, he does stop. Tina can see Matthew (about 10) walking up the staircase, bruised and bloody. He notices her, and comes right to her door, violently forcing it fully open, and throwing Tina down against her bed, and onto the floor.

 

MATTHEW

How come all you do is watch?!

 

Tina frightened, and bracing as he moves in and kicks her face.

 

TINA

I'M SORRY! I DON'T KNOW HOW TO HELP!

 

He begins beating on her as much as he can. Michael (about 11), comes running into room, trying to stop Matthew, and his rage. Matthew (breathing hard) finally stops...

 

Tina is crying and bloody. Michael staring at Matthew, who looks back at him. Suddenly, their dad comes charging in, beating the crap out of all three of them. They fall to the floor, trying to brace from the abuse, as much as they can.

 

DISSOLVE TO:

 

INT. STORE BACKROOM - DAY

 

Tina entering backroom with a look at Matthew and Michael, who both stare back at her.

 

MATTHEW

You want the honors, sis?

 

TINA

To do what?

 

MATTHEW

Time to get rid of dead weight.

 

Tina eyeing her gun (lying on counter between them).

 

MATTHEW

Not with a gun, we need the ammo.

 

TINA

You sure we don't still need him?

 

MATTHEW

For what?

 

TINA

Just until we finish moving out. You said we're still

making at least one more trip back here. I want him

to tell us everything about his cousin, that he can.

 

MATTHEW

Good luck with that. Now start carrying these boxes out.

 

Matthew and Michael, both exit with boxes. Tina grabs her gun, placing in her pants. Then she grabs a box, and exits...

 

Cut to Michael, loading the last box, in the stuffed car. Matthew and Tina, climb inside and drive off.

 

MATTHEW

So, you get anything out of lover boy?

 

TINA

(staring out window at Michael)

I told Michael to work on him. I want her to be able

to relate to whatever character I come up with, for

myself... The character I will become...

 

Cut to Michael, entering store. POV remains on closed door, and over to Vincent, who seems interested in something, off in the brush.

 

POV Tan (store owner), with gun, creeping out of brush. Another man is behind him, and one more behind the store. All creeping toward it, but trying to remain unseen…

 

CUT TO:

 

EXT. HOUSE (where Matt killed Trail Blazer fan) - DAY

 

Tina and Matthew carrying boxes, from car to house. They go inside, placing down boxes. Matthew turns to go back out. Tina behind him, reaching back, placing hand on her gun. She stares at Matthew. She begins to pull out gun. Suddenly, Michael comes over the radio (in hysterics), with gunshots in the background.

 

MICHAEL

(over radio)

MATTHEW, I NEED YOU HERE NOW! I'M TAKING

FIRE. THERE'RE TOO MANY!

 

Matthew running to car, followed by Tina, as she places gun back in her pants.

 

MATTHEW

How many?! We're on our way! Hold them off!

 

CUT TO:

 

INT. STORE - DAY

 

Mark (dead), with a bullet wound to his chest. Greg crying next to him. Michael ducked down, by the counter. He rises and fires a few shots, before going back down. He speaks on radio.

 

MICHAEL

(into radio)

ETA?

 

MATTHEW

(over radio)

Five minutes!

 

A bunch of shots fired into store, from outside...

 

MICHAEL

(into radio)

Thinking a run for it, is my only option, here!

 

MATTHEW

(over radio)

Yeah, do it! Stay close to the road, where you can

 hear me driving. But kill the brothers, we can't

have them showing up at the cabin.

 

Michael begins to move, but more shots are fired inside. He waits it out, before firing a few shots back. He comes around counter, again ducking, and waiting out a few more shots. He moves toward Mark and Greg, looking toward them (once able to).

 

His POV of Mark (now a huff), and Greg, bloody and completely lifeless. Mark is trying to bite him, but out of reach. Greg shows no fear, or signs of life, as Michael moves toward backroom.

 

Cut to Michael jumping out window, from back of store, running toward brush. He begins being fired at, but not hit. He disappears into brush. Few more shots fired.

 

POV Tan and two other guys, slowly approaching store. One of them shoots Vincent, in head. They cautiously come to door, and enter store.

 

CUT TO:

 

INT. CAR - DAY

 

Matthew speeding mountain road. Tina crying.

 

MATTHEW

Why the hell are you crying?!

 

 

TINA

I'm worried about our brother!

 

MATTHEW

He's a survivor...

 

Suddenly, they see Michael running out from the trees, raising his arms to get their attention, as Matthew breaks. Michael runs right over, jumping in.

 

MATTHEW

What happened?!

 

MICHAEL

The owners came back. With backup. (shaking head)

At least a half dozen guys, all with guns. I didn't even

have to shoot the brothers, they were already dead.

 

Matthew instantly worried.

 

MATTHEW

What?! Are you sure?!

 

Tina a hopeful look at Michael (hoping he's not sure).

 

MICHAEL

The younger one was already turned. His brother

was shot dead.

 

Tina disappointed. Matthew begins turning the car around, hesitates, and finally goes on, toward the store. He drives around corner of road, with store coming into view. He speeds up to it, skidding out, and waiting...

 

MICHAEL

What the hell are you doing?!

 

Matthew simply staring toward store. Tina too. No one is coming out.

 

MICHAEL

It's time to jump ship, little brother...

 

Matthew contemplates a few moments longer, simply staring, before speeding off, and away...

 

CUT TO:

 

INT. TRAIL BLAZER FAN HOUSE - DAY

 

Matthew walking in, followed by Michael and Tina. Matthew is pissed, kicking a box of supplies. Tina heads for bedroom.

 

MATTHEW

Where the hell you going?

 

TINA

I need some sleep.

 

MATTHEW

You can sleep after we get up to the lake. Now start

packing the car, so we can get there, already.

 

TINA

(picking up a box)

Sorry, figured you were going to throw one of your

temper tantrums.

 

Without hesitation, Matthew punches Tina in the face (with a closed fist), causing her to drop the box and fall to the floor. Mathew picks up a couple boxes, and heads out.

 

MATTHEW

Now pick that crap up, and get it packed.

 

Tina lays there, silently weeping...

 

CUT TO:

 

EXT. TREE HOUSE - DAY

 

Matthew throwing down binoculars (as Michael picks them up), pacing back away (from where they're hiding in brush), and shouting the "loudest", silent F-bomb, there ever was. He basically throws a tantrum, without making any noise. Tina (with black eye) watches. Michael uses binoculars.

His POV of Scott, Rhett, and Eli, all carrying supplies, up into the tree house.

 

MATTHEW

We're totally effed!

 

MICHAEL

No, I don't think it's her family. They're carrying

supplies to the tree house. They're not going anywhere.

 

TINA

Maybe they had more family, meeting them here,

like Greg and his brother were?

 

 

 

MATTHEW

Why wouldn't they use his car, to go to the mighty

compound? Assuming they got here somehow

without their own vehicle, which I don’t...

 

MICHAEL

I don't see the kid. Just an older dude and a couple.

 

TINA

They killed her.

 

MATTHEW

Why would they kill her?

 

MICHAEL

She's probably up there somewhere, in shock. Whether

these new people know who she is, or who her family is,

they're probably taking advantage of the tree house.

 

MATTHEW

Can't shoot em', that won't make us look like heroes.

We could send Trail Blazer in there, after em'. Never

know, could get lucky.

 

TINA

What if he gets the girl?

 

MATTHEW

Or unlucky.

 

MICHAEL

Can't afford to be unlucky, not with the girl.

She's the only ticket we have left.

 

Silence a moment. Tina looks like she's falling asleep...

 

MATTHEW

We're just gonna’ have to keep an eye on these

people. Until we can make something happen.

 

Dissolve to Michael and Tina both crashed out in the car...

 

Cut to Matthew using binoculars, to watch tree house. His POV, of Scott and Rhett carrying off a huff (the one Sam shot in EP-2). Matthew looks up toward tree house, unable to find anyone. He moves over toward cabin, and all around, without finding anyone else. He moves back to Scott and Rhett, who dump body next to brushy area, and head back toward tree house. Again, Matthew moves to tree house, slowly scanning over it. He stops, when he sees Eli, walking out of boys room, toward bathroom (much smaller than other rooms). He goes inside...

 

POV Matthew, speaking to himself.

 

MATTHEW

What is that, a freaking outhouse, or something,

they got up there?

 

Binocular POV of bathroom. He moves slowly over the other rooms, and down the ladder, where Scott and Rhett go to pick up Fish, and begin carrying him away.

 

Suddenly Sam can be heard crying out above, and hustling to the ladder.

 

SAM

DADDY! (climbing down)

 

POV Matthew, coming out of binoculars, with a smile, and again speaking to himself.

 

MATTHEW

There you are...

 

Looking back through binoculars. Binocular POV of Sam, arriving at Scott and Rhett.

 

SAM

You put him down!

 

Sam simply sitting down on the ground, weeping. Scott motions for Rhett to place Fish's body down.

 

POV Matthew, on binoculars. He turns back with a thought. He looks again through binoculars, a few moments. He then rises and walks away...

 

Dissolve to close-up of Sam, as a tear runs down her face, panning back to her sitting there, looking down on her dad...

 

CUT TO:

 

Matthew holding leash, and jogging ahead of Trail blazer huff (to avoid being caught), as he leads him along...

 

CUT TO:

 

Close-up of Eli, lying in bed, of tree house "boys" bedroom, as a tear runs down his face, panning back to him on his phone, looking at pictures of his folks...

 

CUT TO:

 

Matthew, pushing huff down into brush, and quickly speeding away, around corner, before huff can see him...

 

CUT TO:

 

Close-up of Amy (teary-eyed), panning back to her view below, of Sam sitting next to Fish...

 

CUT TO:

 

Matthew watching (from around corner), as Trail Blazer huff gives up on finding him, after he sees (through the brush) Scott, at the tree house ladder.

Cut to close-up of Scott, watching Sam.

 

Cut to Matthew, arriving around another corner, quickly watching with binoculars.

Binocular POV of Scott, as huff reaches out of brush, placing hands through ladder, and around Scott's neck (to his shock/surprise).

 

Cut to Matthew smiling, as he watches.

 

MATTHEW

Go Trail Blazer!

 

Binocular POV of Amy and Eli, from tree house, watching in horror...

 

POV Matthew, watching as his smile fades away...

 

MATTHEW

God damn it...Fail Blazer!

 

Binocular POV of Rhett, arriving at the scene.

 

RHETT

Don't shoot it! Don't shoot it! Back away!

 

MATTHEW

(OS)

Who is this Jackass?

 

DISSOLVE TO:

 

Matthew looking through binoculars, coming out, stretching his neck for a moment, before looking back in binoculars.

Binocular POV of Rhett, pulling huff's head out of lake water.

 

RHETT

This is it. This is hell on earth. (looking right at his

brother) No need to continue mourning Mom and

Dad, little brother. We'll be joining them, very shortly...

 

Rhett walking out of water with huff head, placing it down while picking up axe, chopping it right into the head.

 

Cut to Matthew, coming out of binoculars, laughing.

 

MATTHEW

Holy s**t, I love this dude!

 

CUT TO:

 

INT. CAR - DAY

 

Tina asleep in backseat. Someone opens door, climbing in driver's side, and starting engine. Driving off, as Tina remains passed out, in backseat. Michael waking from passenger seat, with a look over at Matthew...

 

MATTHEW

Looks like we'll have to shack up at Trail Blazer's

place, for a day or two, until we can come up with

a plan B...or is it now plan C?

 

MICHAEL

From scratch, or do you have an idea of what you

want to do?

 

MATTHEW

I'm shootin' blanks... Maybe go in at dark, and take

em' all out?

 

MICHAEL

Way too risky...

 

MATTHEW

Go back to plan A? Send Tina in as planned?

 

MICHAEL

Why not all of us?

 

MATTHEW

They'd be too intimidated to take us in... I don't

know, let me study them for a day or two. See

what kind of people they are...

 

CUT TO:

 

EXT. FISH'S GRAVE - MORNING (day 3)

 

Matt hiding in brush (close-by), and watching Sam, at her dad's grave...

 

SAM

I had a dream about Jax and August. It was wonderful...

until it became a nightmare. I feel so guilty for missing

them, the way I do. How could I miss them, after what

happened to you? But it helps. Missing them, wanting

to get back to them...it helps me not hurt so much,

when I think about you...and Dad, I just can't stop

thinking about you. (tears)

 

Matthew leaving brush, to hide elsewhere, with a smile.

 

MATTHEW

Helps to miss Jax and August, eh? I think I can do

something with that bit of information.

 

CUT TO:

 

EXT. LAKE - DAY (day 4)

 

Matthew in brush, looking outward. Sound of Jax, Eli, and Sam, swimming...

Matt's POV of them swimming, as huff Frank, surfaces, in front of them.

 

MATTHEW

(not speaking loud enough to be heard)

Oh, my holy hell! Get out of there, sis! Get the kid, out!

 

DISSOLVE TO: PRESENT TIME

 

EXT. BRUSH - EVENING

 

Jax in brush (still dirty/wet), holding radio.

 

MATTHEW

(over radio)

About time! Why didn't you check in last night?

 

JAX

(into radio)

I couldn't. The older guy sleeps during the day,

and keeps watch all night.

 

MATTHEW

(over radio)

I saw your close call in the lake, yesterday.

 

JAX

(into radio)

That was a God damn nightmare! I'm sure you

were plenty amused.

 

MATTHEW

(over radio)

Anything interesting to report?

 

JAX

(into radio)

Not really. The compound is huge and the

people...well, let's just say, I'm curious to

know how you plan to fit in with them.

 

MATTHEW

(over radio)

Same way you do, sis. Act...

 

JAX

(into radio)

Good luck with that.

 

MATTHEW

(over radio)

It'll be easy at the compound, but for now, I'll stay

here. Although I like Rhett, he seems paranoid, he

and his annoying wife. Scott would smell my s**t a

mile away. These people wouldn't accept me. Me

or Michael.

 

JAX

(into radio)

So, what do you wanna’ do?

 

MATTHEW

(over radio)

Keep the radio close enough to reach us, if the

family arrives. When you guys leave, and see us

"broken" down on the road, you tell them it's

your brothers...and to the compound, we all go.

 

JAX

(into radio)

Michael's okay with this plan?

 

MATTHEW

(over radio)

Are you purposely trying to agitate me?

 

Jax waiting, as she thought he'd go on to say more...

 

JAX

(into radio)

No...I just want to make sure the two of you

aren't arguing.

 

MATTHEW

(over radio)

Worry about Tina, or Jax, whoever you are.

 

JAX

(into radio)

Jax, has already done her job, here. Yesterday's

Camp Crystal lake moment, has actually played

to an advantage. The pregnant one is now scared

and bitchy, leaving me as the fun one, to keep the

kid's hopes up.

 

Jax waits, but no response from Matthew...

 

JAX

(into radio)

Matthew? (waiting, still no response) Matthew!?

 

MATTHEW

(over radio)

Oh sorry, you kinda’ put me to sleep there for a

moment. (Jax rolling eyes) Just keep that radio

close, and let us know if they show up. I'll be there

watching most of the time, though. Kind of becoming

addicted. Little too much drama there at first, but

that lake scene was pretty badass. Oh my God, and

earlier today when their father showed up! Wow...

you couldn't write this stuff...

 

JAX

(into radio)

God, you were here then, too? Creepy stalker, much?

 

MATTHEW

(over radio)

Told ya’, I'm addicted. Matthew out. Watch ya later...

 

Jax shaking her head, then putting radio back in bag, and hiding it behind a log. She pulls out a gun, from hiding place. She checks the ammo, and places gun in her pants, taking with her...

 

CUT TO:

 

EXT. FISH'S PORCH - EVENING

 

Amy, Rhett and Scott, all on porch. Amy looking disappointed.

 

AMY

They just drove on? Without even a word?

 

SCOTT

Heard them mention we weren't infected...

or dead...yet

 

RHETT

So, that's why they raised their guns at first?

 

SCOTT

They didn't drop them until they were by us.

They considered us a threat, regardless of

being dead or alive.

 

AMY

So, that's that. We're on our own...

 

SCOTT

I think it's time we at least plan on it being that

way. And not just on our own, but...things...they

really will get worse. We have to get creative,

and plan how to survive here, until Sam's family

can make it.

 

AMY

Let's just - (interrupted)

 

SCOTT

(shaking head)

No. (still shaking) Leaving to get to them, is not

an option. You've heard her talk about that place,

and those people. They will not give up on getting

to us, and if it’s taking them this long to do it, then

what are our chances?

 

Silence…

 

DISSOLVE TO:

 

INT. GIRL'S ROOM - EVENING

 

Close-up of framed family photo, panning back to Sam, as she brushes her hair, while looking at the picture. Jax walks in (still dirty/wet)...

 

SAM

Where were you?

 

JAX

Walking around, looking for more potential pit

locations. Scott wants to come up with any ways

we can, to prepare for what's coming. 

 

Jax slyly places her gun in her bag, while Sam is focused on her photo. Eli can be seen approaching, from boys room. Jax (her back to Eli) takes her shirt off, as Eli instantly turns around, walking back the way he came from. Jax throws on a clean/dry shirt

 

JAX

I know your family will make it eventually, but

until then, Scott is right. We need to be smart,

like that family of yours.

 

SAM

I agree...but they will be here, soon.

 

Sam keeps looking at photo, while Jax continues to change. Once done, she comes over, sitting next to Sam, and looking at the photo with her.

 

JAX

So, which one of these nice-looking cousins of

yours, are single?

 

Sam smiling. Jax placing her finger over the photo.

 

JAX

(finger on Zane)

Zane is definitely a hunk, but (moving finger over

Greg) Greg is just so darn nice to look at.

 

Sam rising from bed, as Jax gets lost in the picture. She is almost emotional, at the thought of Greg. Sam in background, is moving toward corner (toward boxes of supplies). Jax continues to look at the photo...

 

JAX

This one right here, looks my age. I don't see

a girlfriend in the picture.

 

Jax holds photo up, while pointing to him, before looking up at Sam, who is now standing in front of her, at the door, holding a gun right back at her.

 

JAX

(with a laugh)

Sam? What are you doing?

 

Sam (with a very serious expression) takes one step back, and fires a single shot, up into the sky, and immediately aims gun right back at Jax...who now looks extremely shocked/frightened...

 

BLACK

 

CREDITS

 

THE END