Come UndoneA Screenplay by tmb219 Come Undone tells the story of Harper Barnes, 22, trying to begin a new life after her parents' death. She leaves everything behind to move NYC, where her best friend, Matt, will also be living. FADE IN: EXT. MIAMI INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF ART AND DESIGN - DAY HARPER BARNES, 22, stands in front of the university with AUNT GINA, MATT, LEAH, and CLAIRE. The green lawn, fresh flowers, and university name create the background. Harper's almost-black, smooth hair falls to the middle of her back. Her black graduation gown covers her thin, straight figure. Claire also wears a graduation gown. LEAH Now, these pictures won't be as good as the pictures you usually take, Harp, but they'll have to do! Leah smirks a little at Harper. HARPER I'm sure they'll be just fine. AUNT GINA Harper, we are so proud of you! We never would have missed this. I hope you know that, honey. HARPER I know. Thank you. It means a lot that you guys came with everything that's happened. Gina, 61, takes pictures of Harper with Claire, 22, Matt, 22, and Leah, 25. Claire takes a few of Harper with Leah and Gina, as Matt stands to the side and watches. Then, Claire takes a few pictures of Harper and Matt. LEAH I wish more than anything Mom and Dad were here to see you today and tell you how proud they are. Harper looks at the ground. She closes her eyes briefly, then stares at her sister for a moment without a word. Harper slowly nods her head. Matt looks at Harper. She looks up at him and meets his gaze. MATT They'd be so happy watching you graduate. Harper gives a slow, small smile. INT. COVE BAR/RESTAURANT - NIGHT Harper, Matt, Claire, Gina, and Leah sit together in a red vinyl booth. Harper, Claire, Leah, and Matt each have drinks in front of them. Gina looks at Harper. GINA I'm glad you agreed to come stay with me, Harper. You're just going to stay as long as you need and try to find a photography job. Isn't that the plan? Harper looks down at her drink for a moment, then to her aunt. HARPER I'm coming to stay with you tomorrow, but I don't know what the plan is anymore. Gina's brow furrows, as she listens to Harper. GINA What do you mean? HARPER I don't really have a set plan anymore. I thought I knew exactly what I was going to do right after graduation, but I think I'm keeping my options open now. Gina, Leah, Matt, and Claire all look at Harper. HARPER (CONT'D) What's wrong? It's not like we can really plan what's going to happen. GINA Well, no. We don't know what the future is for sure, but that doesn't mean we should stop making plans. HARPER I've always planned things, and it hasn't really gotten me anywhere. I think I'll just stop planning for awhile. GINA We can try to figure things out together. I know it won't be easy, but everything will start to come together soon enough. I promise. LEAH I know what she means, Aunt Gina. I've been feeling the same way. HARPER I don't even know how long I'll stay around here. It's working out for Matt. He's going to New York, and that wasn't the original plan. Harper looks over at Matt. MATT Well, don't go by me, but sometimes it's good to make some big changes. EXT. STREETS OF MIAMI - NIGHT Matt walks with Harper and Claire down the dark streets. They pass a few people. The three are deep in conversation and walk slowly. EXT. HARPER AND CLAIRE'S APARTMENT - NIGHT Harper, Matt, and Claire stand outside their apartment on the front porch. Claire unlocks the front door. The porch light is on. CLAIRE Night you two. (beat) I'm heading to bed. Big day tomorrow. See ya in the morning. MATT AND HARPER Night Claire! Claire starts to open front door. HARPER Hey, thanks for trying to make tonight a good time. I really appreciate it. CLAIRE Anytime. You know I'm here for you. Claire goes inside and leaves Matt and Harper on the front porch. Matt's vivid green eyes glow under the porch light. At six feet, he stands several inches taller than Harper. HARPER (tears in her eyes) Oh, Matt. I didn't want to say too much more tonight with my aunt and Leah, but I'm really rethinking everything. MATT Harp, everything will be okay. I know it doesn't seem like it, but it will. I know that's not what you want to hear right now. HARPER Thanks, but it just doesn't seem like anything is going to be the same, especially after you move. Matt reaches out and takes Harper's hands in his. MATT Oh course things will be different, but you know nothing will change with us, right? You're my best friend. HARPER I know that won't change, but with everything that's happened lately and you leaving, it's hard to imagine you not being around anymore. MATT Well, I won't be here in Florida anymore, but that's not what matters. Harper nods. HARPER So I guess I should tell you what I've been thinking about doing. MATT What do you mean? HARPER I'm strongly considering going to New York. Harper looks down at the pavement. MATT To see the city? That sounds like a good idea for you right now! HARPER No, not just to take a trip. To move. Matt's eyes widen. MATT What? Move? That seems pretty sudden. Have you been thinking about this for awhile? You never mentioned it. HARPER Yeah. I think this could be my only chance to start over and try to actually make it on my own. MATT Are you sure that's the only reason? HARPER I don't have a place to stay yet or a job, but there are so many opportunities there. Matt nods his head slowly and looks directly at Harper. MATT So that's why you're going to New York? Don't get me wrong, it'd be nice to have you there, but I don't want you going just because you're worried about things here. HARPER Well, I'm not just following you, but it would be nice to have each other in a new place. Matt smiles at Harper. MATT It's okay if you want to go. I just want to make sure it's for the right reasons. Harper looks away from Matt for a moment and off into the distance. HARPER Yeah, I know. Thanks, Matt. Harper hugs Matt. Harper watches Matt walk away and goes inside. INT. HARPER AND CLAIRE'S APARTMENT - NIGHT Harper stands with her back against the door after she closes it. She takes a deep breath, closes her eyes, turns around, and opens the door quickly. EXT. HARPER AND CLAIRE'S APARTMENT - NIGHT Harper rushes out the door, loses her breath, holds her chest, and walks quickly down the sidewalk. HARPER (gasps) Matt, wait! Matt stops dead in his tracks, turns around, and stares at Harper. MATT What the hell? What's wrong? Matt rushes to Harper, grabs her arm, and looks at her with concern in his eyes. Harper tries to catch her breath but stops, bends over and puts her head down, hands on her knees. HARPER This just happens sometimes. It's no big deal. Really. MATT Why are you having trouble breathing? I just left, and you were fine. (beat) And what do you mean it just happens sometimes? HARPER Well, I shoulda mentioned I have an appointment with a psychiatrist. I've been having panic attacks for a few weeks. MATT Harper, -- HARPER At least I'm pretty sure that's what they are. It's so sudden and feels like I can't breathe. MATT Why didn't you say something before? HARPER I was a little embarrassed. I know that's -- Matt shakes his head at Harper and throws up his hands. MATT Ridiculous! Come on, Harp, really. Why would you be embarrassed? We tell each other everything. HARPER I guess if I actually say it, it makes it real, and that scares the s**t outta me. Harper shakes her head, looks at the ground, then to Matt. HARPER (CONT'D) Even saying that I'm going to see a psychiatrist seems crazy. MATT It's not crazy. You've been through hell. I think it'll help. Make sure you call me as soon as your appointment's over. HARPER I will. Sorry for keeping this from you. MATT Just remember you never have to be embarrassed. No matter what it is. HARPER You always make me feel better. Thank you. Harper and Matt hug once more. She turns slowly and walks back toward the apartment. Matt walks away. INT. PSYCHIATRIST'S OFFICE - MORNING Harper sits nervously on the couch. She looks around at white, stark walls. On the table in front of her is a box of tissues, a waste basket next to the couch. A leather chair is across from the couch with a table next to it. On the wall to Harper's right are doctor's qualifications, which show where she went to school and her degrees. Other than diplomas and certifications in frames, no pictures or decorations are visible. DOCTOR STINE, 37, enters. DOCTOR STINE Hello, Harper. It's nice to meet you. Doctor Stine puts her hand out and shakes Harper's. HARPER (weary) Hi. Nice to meet you too. DOCTOR STINE How are you? HARPER Okay. Well, I guess I'm not if I'm here, right? DOCTOR STINE Would you like to tell me a little about yourself before we discuss what brought you in today? HARPER Not really. I'd rather start with why I'm here, if that's okay. DOCTOR STINE We can start with that, and then you can tell me about yourself. Doctor Stine looks at Harper expectantly, and Harper opens her mouth to speak. Nothing comes out. FLASHBACK - INT. HARPER'S BEDROOM - MORNING Harper wakes suddenly as the phone RINGS. She grabs for the phone on the night stand, picks it up, and answers. HARPER Leah? LEAH (V.O.) Sorry to call so late. I know you have a lot going on with the end of school, but I have to tell you something. (beat) Oh, Harp, this isn't going to be easy. HARPER What is it? What's wrong? LEAH (V.O.) I just got home from the hospital. HARPER What? Why? LEAH (V.O.) I went with Mom and Dad to dinner tonight. Mom wanted me to drive. HARPER Okay. LEAH (V.O.) Well, on the way home, there wasn't much traffic, and everything was fine. All of a sudden, we were hit head on by a semi. (beat) I couldn't swerve to get out of the way. There was nowhere for me to go, Harper. The truck driver had fallen asleep. HARPER Oh my gosh! Are you guys okay? Why didn't anyone call me? I would've come home! LEAH (V.O.) There was no need for you to come home, especially when you're three hours away and would be worried and upset. We didn't need something to happen to you too. HARPER So what happened? You're out of the hospital and home already after being hit by a semi? LEAH (V.O.) That's the thing. Everyone's not okay! It's Mom and Dad. They didn't make it, Harp. I'm so sorry. (beat) There was nothing the paramedics or doctors could do. They were killed instantly, and it was my fault! HARPER What do you mean they didn't make it, Leah? You're okay and outta the hospital, so what happened to them? Damn it! Harper begins to SOB. The phone falls on the bed. Leah can be heard, as she YELLS to Harper over the phone. Harper throws herself down on the bed, wails, and pounds fists. END FLASHBACK. INT. PSYCHIATRIST'S OFFICE - MORNING Harper stares at the floor and shifts on the couch. She looks up at Doctor Stine slowly. HARPER (gasps) Uh, um. Well, my parents, um -- DOCTOR STINE What is it, Harper? It's okay to say it, whatever it is. I know this is hard, especially the first time. Harper takes a deep breath and closes her eyes. Her feet are firmly on the floor and hands grip the couch cushion. DOCTOR STINE (CONT'D) Are you okay? HARPER I'm not sure. This is even harder than I imagined. DOCTOR STINE Telling a stranger your deepest, most personal thoughts and fears is never easy. It gets better. I promise. Harper shifts on the couch and does not look directly at Doctor Stine. She gets a tissue, blots the corner of her right eye, then left. HARPER My parents. They didn't make it outta the crash. Harper takes a deep breath and looks away. DOCTOR STINE Oh, Harper. I'm so sorry. I understand now why you're here. No need to go any further. HARPER You're right. No need to go any further! Sorry, but I can't do this. Harper stands up, grabs her purse, and stomps out of Doctor Stine's office. Tears stream down her face. INT. HARPER AND CLAIRE'S APARTMENT - MORNING Harper and Claire sit on the couch, all of their belongings around them. CLAIRE What do you mean you're moving to New York? When did this happen? Claire looks intensely at Harper with her big, dark blue eyes. Her blonde hair falls loosely and frames her face. With the exception of mascara and pink lip gloss, her face shows no signs of any other makeup. Claire wears jean shorts and a Miami International University of Art and Design tee shirt. She sits Indian style on the couch. CLAIRE (CONT'D) Are you going with Matt? HARPER Well, I'm not just following him there. CLAIRE But you're going because that's where he'll be? HARPER I wouldn't say that's the reason exactly. It's going to help me start over somewhere new. I can probably find a good photography job there. CLAIRE I have a feeling it's for more than a job, but I won't question your motives. Claire smiles at Harper and leans over to hug her. CLAIRE (CONT'D) If you think it's best and will be good for you, I support you. EXT. HARPER AND CLAIRE'S APARTMENT - MORNING A white pick-up truck pulls up and parks in the street. Matt gets out of the truck slowly and walks up the front sidewalk. Two moving trucks pull up behind his truck in the street. Two big, muscular men get out of each truck. Harper stands with Claire in the doorway. HARPER Guess it's really time to go. Claire nods her head and frowns. CLAIRE Guess so. Four movers walk up the front sidewalk. Harper motions them inside. INT. HARPER AND CLAIRE'S APARTMENT - MORNING The front door is open, and movers begin to haul boxes to the trucks. Matt, Claire, and Harper get a few of Harper's personal belongings and small suitcases. EXT. HARPER AND CLAIRE'S APARTMENT - MORNING Harper, Claire, and Matt stand by his truck. Matt hugs Claire and gets in his truck. CLAIRE Okay, call as soon as you get there, and hopefully one of us can visit soon. HARPER I hope so. I'll miss you so much. I'll talk to you when I get there though. Damn, I hope I'm doing the right thing, Claire. Claire smiles at her through tears. CLAIRE Just do what feels right, and you'll be okay. Call anytime. Harper and Claire hug, and Harper gets in the truck with Matt. Matt drives away. Harper stares out the window, as they drive further away from Claire and the apartment. EXT. AUNT GINA'S HOUSE - AFTERNOON Matt and Harper pull into the long driveway. The house is a cream color ranch with navy blue shutters and a porch. There is a porch swing, two wicker chairs, and a table. Matt gets out and starts to grab a few of Harper's bags. Harper gets out slowly and looks at the house. She puts her purse over her shoulder and gets a small bag from the bed of Matt's truck. They stand with the bags on the front sidewalk and look at the house. MATT Ready? HARPER As ready as I'm gonna be. Telling them isn't gonna be easy. Harper leads the way to the house and knocks on the navy blue front door, as they go in. INT. AUNT GINA'S HOUSE - AFTERNOON As Harper and Matt enter, the foyer and living room are empty. The house is bright, as sun beams in from a big, bay window in front and two side windows. There is a couch, leather chair, coffee table, and flat screen television. Harper and Matt look around. We can see through to the kitchen, which has a big, wooden island in middle with bar stools and dim lights. In the back of the kitchen is a sliding glass door, which leads to the back porch and yard. Aunt Gina walks in through the sliding glass door. AUNT GINA Harper! Matt! I thought I heard you pull up! Aunt Gina rushes over and hugs Harper, then Matt. She wears a peasant-like blouse and skirt, which falls below her knees, and clogs. Her light brown hair is frizzy and pulled into a bun. Her face is free of makeup. Aunt Gina is somewhat short and has a thin shape. HARPER It's good to see you. MATT How are you, Gina? Matt hugs Gina. Suddenly, Matt and Harper look behind them. Leah bursts through the front door. LEAH Hey! Leah's skin looks like smooth porcelain. Her long, thick, blonde hair flows down her back and accentuates her skin. Considerable makeup and extra blonde highlights enhance her beauty. Her features are small, and her blue eyes glisten. Leah stands at 5'7" with long, muscular legs. She wears black running shorts, a hot pink tank top, and black flip flops. Leah walks closer to the three. Harper closes distance between her and Leah and gives her a hug. HARPER Hey, Leah. LEAH I wouldn't miss your big arrival! Leah gives Matt a quick hug. LEAH (CONT'D) It's nice that you stopped in before heading off to New York. Leaving us to become a big city guy now? MATT I couldn't leave without saying good-bye. Next stop is to see the parents, then heading out tomorrow afternoon. GINA So, you have all your plans made for New York? MATT Yep, all set. Matt looks over at Harper for a moment. She looks at him and furrows her brow. EXT. AUNT GINA'S FRONT PORCH - AFTERNOON Harper and Matt stand on the front porch and face one another. Harper's eyes are slightly watery. Matt gives a comforting smile and grabs one of her hands. MATT Okay, Harp. I'll be back tomorrow afternoon to get you. Sure you're ready to do this? Harper takes a deep breath and holds her chest. She closes her eyes for a moment. HARPER If you keep asking me if I'm sure about this, I might just change my mind. You don't want that now, do you? She gives Matt a small smile. MATT I just want to make sure this is right for you. I'll be there for you no matter what. Still with her hand in his, Matt smiles back at Harper. The two hug, and Matt walks to his truck. INT. AUNT GINA'S HOUSE - KITCHEN - EVENING Leah, Gina, and Harper sit at the kitchen table. Harper shakes her head and looks away from the two. AUNT GINA Honey, I just hope you're not going because that's where Matt is going. I don't know if that's a good enough reason to pack up your life and go to New York. HARPER I know everyone thinks I'm just escaping to be with Matt, but it's more than that. It will be good. You'll see. LEAH I hope you're right. Leah and Gina look at Harper. HARPER Well, I'm skeptical about pretty much everything right now, including this, but something about it feels right. Harper gets up from the kitchen table and pushes in her chair. HARPER (CONT'D) I'm sorry this is coming as such a surprise. I just think I'll be happier doing this. Gina and Leah stare at Harper, as she turns around and walks out of the kitchen. EXT. BEACH - EARLY MORNING Harper walks along the shore with her camera. The sun rises and waves CRASH. A few people stroll by Harper periodically. She takes pictures of the ocean, birds, and the sunrise. Harper stops, lowers her camera, and stares out, as the sun reflects off the water. She sits on the sand, puts her camera in one hand, and rests her elbows on her knees. Tears begin to fall down Harper's face. INT. AUNT GINA'S HOUSE - BEDROOM - EARLY MORNING Harper sits on the bed and leans against a pillow, her cell phone to her ear. She sniffs into the phone a little and speaks with a shaky voice. HARPER Hey. MATT (V.O.) Harp? You okay? HARPER I guess. I told my sister and aunt last night. Don't think they want me to go, but I can't make everyone happy. MATT (V.O.) Of course they don't want you to go. They're not going to be mad at you. They'll probably just worry about you. Harper puts her head down, as tears still stream down her face. HARPER I don't know what to do. I know I'm leaving, but I probably couldn't have picked a worse time, according to them. MATT (V.O.) I'm sorry I can't be there with you. I know there's nothing I could really do, but I'd love to just be there with you. HARPER Thank you, Matt. That means more than you know. Maybe I really do just need to get out of here. MATT (V.O.) You should spend time with Leah and Gina before we go. It'll make ya feel better. I'll see you a little later, okay? HARPER 'Kay. See you later. EXT. LEAH'S CONDO - DAY Harper KNOCKS urgently on Leah's front door. Leah opens the door and looks at Harper. HARPER Hey. I wanted to see you before I go. Do ya have a bit? LEAH Yeah. I don't really have much going on today, actually. HARPER Really? I thought you might be busy. Leah shakes her head and frowns. LEAH Nope. Things haven't been quite the same lately. A lot of changes going on. Come in. INT. LEAH'S CONDO - LIVING ROOM - DAY The girls sit on the couch. HARPER What's goin' on? You said a lot of changes have been going on? LEAH Yeah. A lot has happened with work, Justin, my friends, money, basically everything. I guess I've had some other things on my mind too. HARPER Anything you wanna talk about? Leah shakes her head slowly and looks off in the distance out the window. HARPER (CONT'D) You sure? I definitely get how hard change can be. If it's anything you wanna -- LEAH I'd rather not. Sorry, I just start to get upset, and I don't want to do that when you're about to leave. HARPER It's okay, Leah. LEAH No. We should be enjoying each other, not having big emotional discussions. I'll fill you in soon. HARPER Well, whatever it is you're talking about sounds important. LEAH Well, there's one thing I do need to talk to you about, but we both need a little time. I'll wait 'til you're settled in New York. Harper looks at her sister and nods in response. HARPER If that's what you want, I won't push. LEAH Thanks, Harp. If you weren't moving, you could've moved in here. It might have been good, for both of us. HARPER Really? You've never mentioned that before. LEAH A lot of things were different before. I'm not trying to make you feel guilty for leaving. HARPER It's hard to think about what I might be doing if I was staying. I don't wanna doubt the decision I made. Leah nods but looks down at her hands and fidgets with the couch cushion. LEAH I know we have to get through things our own way. HARPER I need a fresh start, something new to focus on. LEAH Sometimes it helps me to talk about Mom and Dad. Maybe I'll try to spend more time with Aunt Gina when you leave. HARPER She'd like that, and it might help to talk to her, since I'll be gone, but we can still talk all the time. LEAH No one really knows what it feels like except you. HARPER I know. LEAH What am I supposed to do without you here? HARPER You always have plenty keeping you busy, and you can always come visit. Leah shakes her head and gets up from the couch. She walks over to the window. Harper's gaze follows Leah, as she walks away from the couch. HARPER (CONT'D) What's wrong? It's so hard seeing you upset. I don't even know how to help you, since I'm such a mess too. LEAH No, it's not your fault. I just don't know what to do from here, the next step to take. In a way, I admire you for making such a big change, Harp. Harper nods slowly, and a single tear falls down her cheek. EXT. PIER - DAY Harper stands on the pier, leans on the wooden ledge, and looks out at the water. Pelicans fly by, and people walk back and forth behind her. Harper's camera is over her shoulder. Harper brings her camera to her face and take some photos of the scenery in front of her. She puts the camera back on her shoulder and stares out into the horizon. She takes a deep breath and walks down the pier, away from the water. INT. AUNT GINA'S HOUSE - DAY Harper and Gina sit on the couch. Harper's two suitcases and few bags are in front of her. Harper jiggles her legs and fidgets with her hands, as Gina says nothing. Gina gets up from the couch and walks to the front window. She looks at Harper. AUNT GINA Your cab is here. Guess it's time for you to go. HARPER 'Kay. Harper grabs her purse and put it over her shoulder with another bag. She wheels the two suitcases toward the front door. EXT. AUNT GINA'S HOUSE - DAY Matt steps out of the back of the cab in the street, grabs Harper's suitcases and bag, and puts them in the trunk. Harper looks at Matt, as he closes the trunk. Aunt Gina stands on the sidewalk next to her. MATT Ready? Harper nods but does not move. HARPER Wow, it just hit me. I'm actually moving away to a place I've never even been to before. Gina shakes her head slowly and looks down. AUNT GINA Harper, don't you think you should've thought about this before? HARPER Oh, I have. It's just a little more real right now. Okay, I gotta suck it up. I made the choice, and I'm sticking with it. It'll be for the best. I hafta believe that. MATT Harp, we have to go if we want to make our flight. Harper looks at her aunt. HARPER Okay. Let's not make this sad. I'll see you soon. Gina nods, and the two hug. Harper and Matt get in the back of the cab. The cab drives off. Gina stands in the same place and watches it drive away. INT. TAXI - AFTERNOON Harper and Matt sit in the taxi. Harper stares out the window. Matt looks at Harper. Neither speaks for a moment. Matt touches Harper's shoulder, and she jumps a little. She looks over at Matt. MATT You okay? You usually have more to say. Harper smiles a little at him. HARPER I know. Sorry. I'm just thinking about everything, I guess. Matt reaches for Harper's hand. She looks down at their hands, as he holds hers. MATT I know this isn't easy for you. HARPER It's really not, but there's something that keeps pushing me to do it. Can we talk about something else? Harper gives a half smile. MATT It'll be okay. Matt looks down, away from Harper. Harper's breaths get deeper, and she holds her chest. EXT. TAMPA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT - EVENING Harper and Matt get out of the cab that pulls up to curb at the airport. The driver gets out and helps the two get their bags. Matt pays him, and they walk into the airport. Tears stream down Harper's face, as they walk toward the door. INT. TAMPA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT - SECURITY - EVENING Harper and Matt enter the security line. She stops suddenly, drops her bags, and falls to her knees, head in her hands, and begins to cry. Travelers stare. HARPER (gasps) I don't know what the hell I'm doing. Matt stoops down and puts his hand on Harper's shoulder. MATT Harp, come on. You have to get up. HARPER I think I'm having a panic attack. Oh no. She tries to catch her breath. Matt grabs Harper's hand and pulls her up. MATT Take a deep breath. It's okay. You're fine. HARPER Is this the right decision, Matt? Matt takes a deep breath before he speaks. MATT You told me you wanted to find new opportunities in New York and start a new life. That is still why you're going, right? Matt looks Harper directly in the eyes. She stares back at him. Then, she looks away. MATT (CONT'D) Harp? She looks at him. HARPER Yeah. Why do you keep asking me that? MATT Sometimes it just seems like you have other reasons, that's all. HARPER Do you want me to have other reasons? MATT Never mind. Forget I brought it up. Let's just go. I think it'll be for the best in the end. Harper nods. They grab their carry on bags and move forward in the security line. EXT. AUNT GINA'S FRONT PORCH - EVENING BEN, 22, KNOCKS on the door. The door OPENS, and Gina stands in front of him. Ben stands at about six feet tall. He has short, light brown, wavy hair. He wears a green polo shirt, khaki shorts, and brown flip flops. BEN Hi, Gina. Gina's eyes widen. GINA Ben. Hi. BEN I know you're probably surprised to see me, but is there any chance Harper hasn't left for New York yet? Gina shakes her head. GINA Sorry, Ben. You just missed her a little bit ago. She left with Matt late this afternoon. Ben shakes his head and looks down, as if he already knew the answer. BEN Thought you might say that. Okay. Well, at least I tried. GINA Ben, was it something important? BEN Well, yeah, but if I missed her, maybe I should just take that as my cue to leave it alone. GINA Oh, Ben. I think I know what you mean. Maybe you could call her? Ben shrugs and takes a few steps back. BEN Maybe I'll just give her some time. Thank you, though. GINA Of course. Gina watches Ben turn and walk toward the black mustang in the driveway. INT. TAXI - LATE EVENING Harper and Matt sit in the back of the cab and look out the window at the buildings of New York City. People and cars fill the city. Cars HONK, and SIRENS are heard. The cab drives through Times Square and arrives in front of a hotel. MATT Okay, I'll stay here 'til you come back and make sure you get checked in and everything. Then, I'll go on to the apartment. Harper nods and looks out the window at the front of the hotel. EXT. BROADWAY HOTEL - LATE EVENING Harper comes out of the hotel with all her bags and shakes her head frantically. Matt gets out of the cab. MATT What happened? Harper takes a deep breath. HARPER They had my reservation starting yesterday, and since I didn't show up or call, they gave my room away. There are no more. How ridiculous! Matt rolls his eyes and looks at her bags. MATT Um, okay. Well, I guess you'll stay with me? I don't know what else to do. I doubt any other hotels will have anything this last minute. Not in this city. Harper bites her lip and looks at Matt. HARPER Stay with you? I don't know. MATT Well, I don't know either, but I don't know what else to do at this point. HARPER I really don't need to be staying at your place when you haven't even been there yet. MATT I don't care about that, Harp. I'm not sure it's the best idea. We've never stayed anywhere together, but it doesn't have to be long term. You really have no other option right now. HARPER Yeah, I don't have any other options right now, but are you sure? I promise, I won't get in your way. It'll only be 'til I find a hotel. Matt puts Harper's bags in the trunk of the cab and gets in the back. MATT Come on, Harper. Get in. INT. MATT'S APARTMENT - MORNING Harper opens her eyes, as she wakes on Matt's couch. The door SLAMS, and Matt comes over to her with two cups of coffee. Harper sits up, in her pajamas, on the couch. Matt hands her one of the cups. MATT Hey, you're up. HARPER Yeah, I didn't even hear you leave. She lifts the coffee up a little. HARPER (CONT'D) Thanks, by the way. Matt nods. MATT So, I take it you slept okay? HARPER Seems that way. Thanks again for letting me stay. MATT Well, I wouldn't leave you with nowhere to go. He looks at Harper and gives a playful smile. She smirks back at him. Matt looks around the studio apartment with his furniture and many boxes. MATT (CONT'D) Well, it looks like all the stuff I sent made it. Guess I have a lot of unpacking ahead of me. Harper looks around and nods, without a word. INT. MATT'S APARTMENT - LATE MORNING Matt puts some kitchen materials in the cupboard. Harper walks toward him. He stops and looks up at her. HARPER I'm gonna give you some space and go out for awhile. I want to get familiar with city a little. Matt does not say anything for a moment. MATT Sure you'll be okay out there by yourself? HARPER Don't worry, I'll call you if I get mugged. MATT Funny, Harp. Don't laugh. It could happen. HARPER Well, I'll take my chances. Have to venture out sometime. MATT Be careful. HARPER I made an appointment with the leasing agent for the building. We meet tomorrow to look at a possible apartment. MATT Really? For this building? Wow, you move fast these days. Harper laughs. MATT (CONT'D) Don't get me wrong. I'm glad you're making changes. HARPER Hope you don't mind that it's the same building you're in. Matt smiles at her. MATT Nah. Could be good. We'd have separate places but still be close. AROUND NEW YORK CITY - MONTAGE Harper walks the streets of downtown New York, camera over her shoulder. She walks through Times Square, takes in every bit of the scenery, and takes pictures of notorious landmarks such as Times Square Studios, Planet Hollywood, MTV Studios, Times Square Tower, and the Paramount Theatre. Harper walks through Central Park and passes many people who are there to exercise and enjoy the scenery. She takes pictures of many beautiful scenic landscapes. Harper rides the ferry. A view of Statue of Liberty. Snapshots of the landmark and view. She rides the subway. Harper gets off and walks a short distance to Matt's high-rise apartment building. View of the building. INT. COFFEE SHOP - MORNING Harper sits at a table with her laptop in front of her. The coffee shop is brightly lit by the sun. Many people stand in line to order coffee and pastries, then leave or find a table. Harper looks at the screen, her camera next to it. She slowly clicks through photographs of New York City. Some include the outside of Matt's apartment building, the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Central Park, the subway, and city streets. Harper stops at a picture of the Statue of Liberty. The city lines the background. The sunlight reflects off the water. She looks closely at the picture, takes a sip of coffee and looks up when she hears a VOICE. GIRL That's a beautiful picture. Did you take it? Harper looks up from her computer to see a young woman about her age in front of her. She looks from the picture to Harper. Harper looks at the young woman. HARPER Um, hi. (beat) Yeah, I took it. When Harper looks at the girl and answers, she sees bright blue eyes and a very well-dressed woman. Her almost-black, silky hair swings perfectly straight just above her shoulders. The girl wears black pants, dress shoes, and a silver, ruffled blouse. Her look is accented with earrings, a glittery necklace, and a Chanel purse. She looks like a New York professional. Harper quickly clicks off the picture to the main desktop screen on her computer. GIRL Well, it's amazing! Sorry, I didn't mean to intrude, but I was just walking by when it caught my eye. Are you a photographer? Harper looks at the girl for a moment before she answers. HARPER Technically, no. I just graduated with a degree in photography, but I haven't found a job yet. I'm just adding to my portfolio. GIRL Gotcha. Congrats on graduating. I just graduated last December. I work for The New York Times. HARPER The New York Times? Wow! Harper closes her laptop and take a drink of her coffee. GIRL Well, I had an internship there my last year of college, and they hired me after that. Seemed like luck, really. HARPER That's awesome! What do you do there? GIRL I'm a writer. I went to school for journalism, so it's a really great place to work. HARPER Yeah, I can imagine. I had an internship my last semester of college, but unfortunately they weren't hiring when I graduated. GIRL Where'd you go to school? HARPER Oh, I went to school in Miami. I just moved here, actually. GIRL Oh! Well, welcome to the city! HARPER Thanks. I'm Harper, by the way. GIRL And I'm Jamie. Nice to meet you! HARPER Yeah, you too. You're the first person I've met here. JAMIE Well, if you ever need someone to show you around the city or just need some company, give me a call! Jamie quickly scribbles her number on a napkin and gives it to Harper. Harper takes it, puts it in her purse, and looks at her. HARPER Great, thanks. I might just take ya up on that! JAMIE Sounds good. I guess I'll talk to ya soon then. As Jamie walks away toward the door, Matt passes her and walks up to Harper's table. He wears workout clothes and holds his phone. Jamie turns her head and looks at Matt, as she walks out. INT. AUNT GINA'S HOUSE - KITCHEN - DAY Leah and Gina sit at the kitchen table. Both have very stern faces, and Leah looks done at her hands. Gina looks at Leah. She reaches out and puts her hand on Leah's. AUNT GINA Honey, I can't tell you what the right thing is here. Leah looks at her aunt and nods slowly. LEAH I know, I know. It's honestly one of the hardest decisions I've ever had to make. What I decide to do could actually change everything for Harper. Me too. AUNT GINA That's true, but you have to decide if it's the right time to tell her. I think only you can really decide that. LEAH Oh, Aunt Gina, a lot of times I wish I didn't even know about it. Why did I have to be the one to hear Mom on the phone? Gina looks thoughtfully at her niece. AUNT GINA I think you heard your mom for a reason, and somehow you'll know if and when you should tell your sister. It'll work out. You just have to believe that. Leah listens to Gina intensely and shakes her head knowingly. LEAH You're probably right. Maybe I just need a little time. INT. MATT'S APARTMENT BUILDING - APARTMENT - MORNING A LEASING AGENT, 32, walks toward the front door of the apartment, Harper close behind. The agent is tall and thin, wears a black suit, and is bald. He holds some paperwork. Harper turns around and takes in the apartment one last time. From the foyer area, we see part of the kitchen and living area. There are windows, floor to ceiling, with a view of the city streets and other high rises. LEASING AGENT Well, what did you think? HARPER I love it, actually. It's almost the same as my friend's place a few floors up, where I'm staying now. I really like the layout and size. LEASING AGENT Yeah. For the most part, they are all pretty much laid out the same. Is this the type of apartment you're looking for? HARPER It is, actually. LEASING AGENT Glad to hear it. We'll move the process along then, so you can get in quickly. HARPER Perfect. Thank you. Harper looks around the apartment, a small smile on her face. EXT. COFFEE SHOP - MORNING Harper sits on the front patio of the coffee shop, a muffin and coffee on the table, and her laptop open in front of her on the table. Other people sit on the patio, as they drink coffee and eat pastries. Many people walk by on the sidewalk, and cars, taxies, and tour buses DRIVE by loudly. Harper ignores the busyness around her and stares intently at her computer screen. She stops for a moment to take a drink of her coffee and a bite of the muffin. Harper looks up toward the sidewalk next to her. She spots Ben, as he walks by and meets her eyes at the same time. Ben stops when he sees Harper. HARPER Ben? Ben gives Harper a big smile. BEN Hi, Harper. HARPER What are you doin' here? BEN How are you? HARPER Fine, but what are you doin' here? BEN Why do you keep asking me that? I thought you might be a little happier than this to see a familiar face. HARPER Just surprised, I guess. You're not gonna tell me why you're here? Ben shrugs. BEN Can I join you for a cup of coffee first? Harper looks at Ben for a moment without a word. HARPER Okay. BEN I'll be back after I grab a coffee. Harper nods. HARPER 'Kay. Harper's cell phone RINGS. She digs in her computer bag for a moment and retrieves it. She puts the phone to her ear. HARPER (CONT'D) Hey, Matt. MATT (V.O.) Hey! What are you up to? HARPER Just stopped to grab some coffee and work on job applications next door at the coffee shop. MATT (V.O.) Sounds good. HARPER Yeah, what are you doin'? MATT (V.O.) Been here unpacking all morning. I think I'll just keep working most of the day, but I was thinking about trying to make dinner later. Will you be back? Harper smiles to herself. HARPER Really? Yeah, definitely. I'll probably stay here most of the day and be back later this afternoon. I can help you unpack some and with dinner. Ben walks over to the table and sets down another cup of coffee in front of Harper. He sits down with his own cup and bagel. BEN I took it upon myself to get you another coffee. HARPER (whispers) Thanks. MATT (V.O.) Who's that? HARPER Oh, um, Ben is here. MATT (V.O.) Ben? Your ex-boyfriend Ben? HARPER Yeah. MATT (V.O.) Why would he be there with you? HARPER I don't really know, Matt. MATT (V.O.) What do you mean? I thought you broke up before graduation. I thought he was still in Miami. HARPER Yes, and so did I. I don't know. I'll see ya a little later, 'kay? MATT (V.O.) Yeah, alright. See you later. Harper puts the phone back in her bag and looks up at Ben. BEN Matt? Harper nods. INT. MATT'S APARTMENT - EARLY EVENING Matt gets plates and silverware out. The front door SLAMS. The kitchen is small but with enough room for a table that seats two people. It has stainless steel appliances, and two pots are on the stove. HARPER (O.S.) Matt? MATT In here, Harp. Harper bursts into the kitchen. HARPER Hey! Wow, somethin' smells good! MATT I just started the sauce for spaghetti. You wanna put the noodles in the other pot? It's ready. HARPER Well, you know I'm not much of a chef, but I'll do what I can. Matt gives a small laugh and hands Harper the box of spaghetti noodles. Harper rolls up her shirt sleeves and takes the box from Matt. HARPER (CONT'D) Thanks. MATT Can you handle that okay? He smirks at Harper, as she dumps the noodles into the pot. HARPER Funny, Matt. I'm not that inadequate in the kitchen. MATT Oh, I don't know about that. Harper looks up at Matt. HARPER Seriously. He smiles back at her. MATT I'll get the stuff out for a salad. I stopped at the store a bit ago. Aren't you proud? HARPER Wow, you're really taking this whole New York living to a new level. They both laugh. MATT I figure I should get settled as soon as possible. HARPER Yeah, I see you were pretty productive while I was out today. Got a lot unpacked. MATT I did. Almost everything, but I still need to do my room and a few other things. HARPER I'd say you got a lot done. Maybe I'll help ya try to finish some of it later. Matt walks over to the stove by Harper and looks at the pot of noodles in front of her. MATT Okay, that'd be nice. Harper looks up at Matt. MATT (CONT'D) How ya doing over here? HARPER Think I have this under control, but that's about the extent of my cooking skills. Did you get any bread? I could just put it in the oven while this finishes. MATT Oh yeah. I did. Matt gets the bread out, places it on the baking sheet, hands it to Harper, and goes back to the salad. Harper puts some noodles on each of their plates and takes them to the counter by Matt. They both reach for the spoon to get some sauce. Their hands touch, and Matt looks Harper directly in the eyes. The look lingers for a few seconds. HARPER I was just -- MATT It's okay. I'll get it for us. Go ahead and sit down, and I'll bring it over. Harper looks at him and takes her hand away from the spoon. HARPER Thanks. Matt scoops spaghetti sauce onto both plates and goes over by the salad. INT. MATT'S LIVING ROOM - LATE EVENING Matt and Harper walk toward the couch and plop down. Matt flicks on the television. HARPER Uh, I'm so full. Thanks for dinner, Matt. It was nice of you to cook. Matt stares at television, holds remote without a word, as if he does not hear Harper. HARPER (CONT'D) Matt? He looks at Harper quickly. MATT What? Why are you yelling? HARPER I wasn't yelling. You didn't even hear me. I was just thanking you for dinner. It was nice of you to cook tonight. Harper gets up quickly, but Matt grabs her by the hand. MATT Wait, Harp. She stops and turns to Matt. Harper sits back down on the couch. HARPER Sorry. Didn't mean to overreact. I guess I'm just extra sensitive lately. MATT It's okay. You don't have to apologize. I was happy to cook dinner. HARPER So I might not be around for dinner too much longer. I didn't tell ya yet, but I found an apartment! Matt looks up in surprise, eyes wide. MATT Oh yeah? That didn't take you long. HARPER Yeah. I can't believe it worked out so quickly. Nothing ever happens that fast. MATT Where is it? HARPER Oh, the one I told you I was goin' to look at a few floors down! It actually comes furnished. MATT It didn't take me too long to find this one. They go pretty fast around here. That's great, Harp. HARPER Thanks. You don't sound that happy. MATT I'm happy you're trying to make things happen quickly. Guess I didn't think it would be that soon. HARPER Awe, you're gonna miss me, huh? Harper smirks at Matt. He says nothing, just gives a small smile. MATT When do you move in? HARPER I can start moving in two days. Matt looks at Harper for a moment. MATT That's great. INT. MATT'S APARTMENT - MATT'S ROOM - NIGHT Matt unpacks a big box that is on his bed. He unloads clothes and sets them on the bed. Harper comes in with a box. HARPER Here ya go. This one was in the living room. Must have gotten mixed up. She sets the box under the window on the other side of the room. MATT Oh, thanks. I was looking for that. HARPER I can help if ya want? MATT Sure, that'd be great. Harper kneels down and opens the box under the window. She begins to unpack many books, picture frames, and pictures and sets them on the floor next to her. Matt stops and looks at Harper on the floor. She looks up at him. HARPER What's wrong? MATT Oh, nothing. Hey, you never mentioned earlier why Ben is here. HARPER I guess he wanted to visit. He didn't say too much about why he's here, kinda avoided the question. It seems like something's on his mind though. MATT Are you going to see him again? Harper puts down a picture frame she unpacks and sits down on the floor. Matt sits on the bed and faces Harper. HARPER Yeah. He came all this way. I'm not gonna tell him I can't see him. MATT You guys broke up during our last semester. Doesn't he get that? HARPER Maybe he just wants to hang out. He know I'm goin' through a lot right now. MATT I never really like him. HARPER I know, but he's really a good person, Matt. You've never had a good reason not to like him. MATT No but you had a reason for breaking up with him. Please tell me you're not getting back together. HARPER Why are you so worried about it? You never cared this much before. MATT Yeah I did. I just never said much about it. HARPER He's just visiting, Matt. It's no big deal. I'm sure he'll tell me why he's here next time I see him. MATT Yeah, I'm sure he will. HARPER What's that supposed to mean? Why are you so against Ben all of a sudden. I know you never really cared for him but damn. Matt shakes his head and looks down at the clothes on his bed. MATT Never mind. Forget it. If you say you're not getting back together, I believe you. Harper frowns and continues to unpack the box in front of her. INT. HARPER'S APARTMENT - DAY The apartment is furnished and looks almost the same as Matt's. The area past the foyer is the kitchen and living room with a bedroom, bathroom, and closet off to one side. Straight ahead from the foyer through the living room area is a balcony with sliding glass doors. Ben stands in the kitchen and puts away some silverware and dishes. The front door OPENS. Harper walks in the front door and struggles with two big boxes. One is stacked on top of the other. As she comes through the door with the boxes, Ben rushes over and grabs the top box from her. HARPER Thanks! I thought I was gonna drop it. Harper sets the other box down in the living room area. Ben sets the box he took from her on top of it. BEN Sure! Is that the last of the boxes? HARPER Just about. Matt's bringing one last box down. It's some of my parents' stuff. I just haven't had it in me to go through any of it yet. BEN Understandable. It can't be easy to go through your parents' things. I can't even imagine. HARPER Yeah, it's -- As Harper begins to speak, there is a KNOCK at the door. Harper moves to the door and opens it to Matt. He holds a huge box and walks into the apartment. HARPER (CONT'D) Just set it anywhere. It doesn't really matter at this point. There's so much to do. Matt piles the box on top of a few others near the couch. HARPER (CONT'D) Thanks, Matt. As Matt stands up, he spots Ben in the kitchen. He stops and looks right at him. Harper watches Matt's face fall. HARPER (CONT'D) Matt. Don't. MATT Ben? BEN Hey, man. How's it goin'? Been awhile. How's the city treatin' ya? MATT Fine. Didn't realize you were here helping. Is that why you came to New York? BEN Well, not exactly. I didn't really think Harper would be settling in this fast. Thought I'd stay and help a little. MATT Yeah, me neither. Matt looks at Harper. She looks down at the boxes. HARPER Ben wanted to see my new place and offered to help a little, so -- As Harper speaks, Matt walks to the door. MATT Alright, it looks like you two have things handled, so I'll talk to you later, Harp. Harper follows Matt to the door. HARPER Matt, wait. What's wrong? I thought you were gonna stay. MATT I still want to help you, Harp. I'll come back later or tomorrow. Looks like you have more than enough help here. He looks over at Ben still in the kitchen. Ben continues to unpack a box of dishes and does not say anything to them. Harper takes a deep breath. Matt puts his hand on her shoulder for a moment. MATT (CONT'D) It's okay. I'll talk to you later. Harper frowns at Matt. HARPER Why are you being like this? MATT I'm fine. Everything's fine. Call me later. He tries to give a smile and walks out the door. Harper stares after him and turns around slowly. She looks at Ben as he unpacks. She runs a hand through her hand and shakes her head. Ben looks at Harper. BEN You alright? HARPER I'm not sure. He's not acting himself the last few days. Ben shrugs. BEN I'm sure he's fine. Probably just adjusting. Harper doesn't say anything and walks over to some boxes in the living area. Harper bends to pick up the box Matt had brought down, but it starts to tip over. As the box tips, Harper uses her leg to catch it. A photo album falls out of the box and on to the floor. The photo album is blue, white, and pink plaid leather. The binding is bent inward, as if it is worn and old. There is a character drawing of a blonde, young woman on it. An inscription of the word daughter is on the front. Harper bends slowly to pick up the album, as she examines it closely. Ben walks over to Harper. BEN (CONT'D) What's that? HARPER Hm? She looks at Ben and back to the album she holds. HARPER (CONT'D) Oh, I'm not really sure. This photo album fell outta the box with my parents' stuff, but I've never seen it before. She continues to look at the album. HARPER (CONT'D) That's weird. It says daughter on it, but my mom never showed me this. Never. BEN Maybe it was one she kept for herself? HARPER That wasn't really like her. She always loved showing my sister and me pictures. I've always thought that's a little bit of the reason I love photography so much. BEN Did ya look inside? Maybe you've seen the pictures, just not the album. Harper opens the album. The first page holds baby pictures of a girl in pink, a new baby in the hospital. She points to the baby in the picture and looks at Ben. HARPER Nope. I've never seen these pictures. That looks like me, but it's not. It's not my sister either. Ben looks more closely at the album. BEN Can I see that? Harper hands him the album. Ben looks again, then at Harper. HARPER What? Harper takes the album back. She takes a deep breath and flips to another page in the album, and another, and another. HARPER (CONT'D) I don't get it. Harper stares at the album and focuses on each picture as she slowly turns through the pages once more. BEN Sure that's not you? It does look just like you. HARPER I'm sure, Ben. BEN Okay, Okay. Maybe it's another family member like a cousin or someone. Harper freezes, as she squints and looks very closely at one specific picture in front of her. Ben watches Harper as her expression changes. BEN (CONT'D) What's wrong? Harper looks at him. HARPER This picture. The woman in the picture. BEN Yeah? Who is it? HARPER It's my mom. As for the baby in the pictures, I have no idea. Harper continues to stare at the picture of her mom and the baby. BEN Your mom? Then it has to be a cousin or other family member. Harper drops the album halfheartedly back into the box and takes the box into her bedroom. INT. SOY JAPANESE RESTAURANT - EVENING Jamie and Harper sit at a small table in the corner. The light is dim. Several people fill the restaurant. A rectangular plate is between the girls with California rolls. Each has a glass of water in front of her. The WAITRESS, 45, comes with the girls' food. She sets a plate of shrimp and chicken tempura and bowl of rice in front of each. HARPER AND JAMIE Thank you! WAITRESS Yes. You are welcome. The waitress walks away and leaves the girls to eat. JAMIE So I'm glad you called! How's everything going so far? HARPER Yeah, I thought it'd be good to get out. Thanks for the offer. Things are fine so far. No job yet, though. Harper takes a drink of her water and eats some of the rice. JAMIE No? Have you been applying a lot of places? Jamie digs in to her tempura with chopsticks. HARPER Yeah, filled out a buncha applications online with my resume to all the local photography studios. JAMIE Seems like a good start. You could follow-up by visiting some of the places and inquiring about the positions. Harper nods between bites. HARPER I think that'll have to be my next step. I wanted to make sure I kept applying everywhere while I was moving to the new apartment. JAMIE Seems like you have things pretty much under control. Have you tried magazines or newspapers for photography jobs? HARPER No, haven't tried that. If I don't find anything, I'll probably look into it. JAMIE Actually, if you're interested, there might be a short-term position at The Times for photography. Harper's eyes widen with surprise. She puts her chopsticks for a moment. HARPER Seriously? Jamie nods and smiles at Harper. JAMIE Yep. One of the photographers for the Style section is going to be on maternity leave, and they need someone to fill in for her. HARPER Oh my gosh. That'd be amazing! What do I need to do to do to apply? Harper puts her rice bowl down on the table. JAMIE Actually, I'll see if Nick Thomas can get in touch with you. He's in charge of that stuff, and it might mean more if I give him your info myself. HARPER Wow, Jamie. You have no idea how much that means. Thank you. JAMIE Oh, no problem. I'm glad to do it. You need to get something soon, and they need a photographer as quickly as possible! Jamie picks up her bowl of rice, and Harper smiles, chopsticks in hand. INT. NEW YORK TIMES HEADQUARTERS - LATE MORNING Harper walks out of an office on the outside wall. Cubicles fill the entire space, and the offices surround them along the perimeter. She wears a black pant suit, heels, her hair down and styled, and carries a leather satchel. NICK THOMAS, 35, follows behind her. Harper stops and turns to Nick. He puts out his hand, and Harper shakes it firmly. NICK Thank you for coming in today. I will let you know as soon as possible when we come to a decision. Your portfolio was very impressive. HARPER Thank you for your time. I appreciate you meeting with me. NICK My pleasure. I will be talking to you soon. Have a good day. HARPER Okay. Thank you. You too. As Harper walks through the rows of cubicles and employees, Jamie comes out of her office and rushes after her, also in a pant suit and heels. She carries a handbag over her shoulder. INT. NEW YORK TIMES HEADQUARTERS - ELEVATORS - AFTERNOON Harper stands in front of the elevator and pushes the button. Jamie rushes toward Harper. JAMIE Hey! I tried to catch you, but I didn't want to yell. HARPER Oh! I didn't even see you. You can't just leave, can you? JAMIE No, but it's my lunch! Perfect timing. We can go grab something to eat if you have time? HARPER Yeah, that works. I didn't even realize what time it was. The interview turned out to be pretty long. The elevator DINGS, doors open, and the two girls get inside. Doors close. INT. ELEVATOR - AFTERNOON JAMIE I'm sure that's a good thing. How do you think it went? HARPER Everything seemed to go really well. Photography is really all I've ever been so passionate about. I'm supposed to find out soon. Gosh, I really need this job. JAMIE That's great! Well, you never know what one job can lead to, especially in this industry. HARPER That's true. I should try to look at it like that. JAMIE Mexican sound good? HARPER Perfect. I've been craving Mexican all week, and a margarita doesn't sound too bad either! The elevator DINGS, doors open, and the girls walk out toward the main lobby of the building. INT. HARPER'S APARTMENT BUILDING - HALLWAY - LATE AFTERNOON Harper turns the key in the door to her apartment when her cell phone begins to RING loudly. Harper opens the door and struggles to find the phone in her bag. As she finds it, she walks into the apartment. INT. HARPER'S APARTMENT - LATE AFTERNOON Harper drops her bag inside the door and answers the phone. She does not move any further. HARPER Hello? NICK THOMAS (V.O.) Hi. Is this Harper Barnes? HARPER Yes, speaking. NICK THOMAS (V.O.) Hello, Harper. This is Nick Thomas from The New York Times. HARPER Yes, hi Nick. NICK THOMAS (V.O.) I am calling to let you know about the position I interviewed you for this morning. HARPER Wow! I didn't expect to hear so soon. NICK THOMAS (V.O.) Well, I did say I'd let you know as soon as we made a decision, and we have. HARPER Yes. Okay. NICK THOMAS (V.O.) Harper, I would be honored if you would fill the position, while our photographer is on maternity leave. HARPER Oh, wow! Really? Thank you. You have no idea how much this means to me. NICK THOMAS (V.O.) You're welcome, and it's my pleasure. I think you will be the perfect fit, and Laura would be happy to have you filling in for her. EXT. HARPER'S APARTMENT BUILDING - BALCONY - LATE AFTERNOON Harper stands on the balcony and leans on the railing. She looks out at the city view of high rises and busy traffic down on the street. The sky is blue with white, puffy clouds. The sun shines, and the trees are full of green leaves. Harper uses her cell phone. JAMIE (V.O.) Hey Harper! What's up? I'm just leaving work. HARPER Oh, good! I called to tell you the good news. I got the position! I know it's only temporary, but I'm trying to keep in mind what you said earlier. JAMIE (V.O.) Congrats! I had a good feeling you might get it. So when do you start? HARPER I start Monday. I can't wait. It'll be a great experience. JAMIE (V.O.) That's for sure! I'm so happy for you. Did you tell your family yet? HARPER No, I still have to call them and Matt. JAMIE (V.O.) Sounds good. Well, congrats again. I guess I'll be seeing you around a lot more. HARPER Yeah! We can do lunches more often. That'll be cool. 'Kay. I'm gonna go call my sister. Thanks again, Jamie. JAMIE Of course. Glad I could help. Talk to you soon. HARPER 'Kay. Bye! Harper ends the call. As she is about to make another, her cell phone RINGS. She answers. HARPER (CONT'D) Leah! LEAH (V.O.) Hey, Harp. Why so excited? HARPER Oh, I was just about to call you. That's weird! Leah laughs. LEAH (V.O.) So what's new? HARPER Guess what! I just gotta job! LEAH (V.O.) No way. Already? That's great. Congrats. HARPER Thanks. It's technically temporary, since I'm filling in for a photographer going on maternity leave, but it's at The New York Times! LEAH (V.O.) Wow! Well, maybe it could lead to other things. HARPER Yeah, I'm trying to keep that in mind. That's what my friend Jamie said. LEAH (V.O.) Made friends already too? Well, aren't you just settling right down there. New city, new friends, apartment, job -- Harper turns around and leans back on the railing, as she faces the sliding glass doors. HARPER Leah? Is everything okay? LEAH (V.O.) Sorry. I really am happy for you, Harp. Guess I just have a lot on my mind. Actually, that's kind of why I called. HARPER Oh yeah? What's up? LEAH (V.O.) Would it be okay if I come to see you in New York? HARPER Really? Yes! I'd love that! LEAH (V.O.) Okay, good. I really need to talk to you, and I want to see your new place and everything anyway. HARPER Is everything okay? LEAH (V.O.) I'm not really sure. There's some things we need to talk about. HARPER Oh. Okay. You can't tell me now? LEAH (V.O.) I'd rather do it in person, if that's okay. HARPER It's fine. It'll be good to see ya. I just hope everything's okay. Harper turns back toward the city and stares off in the distance, phone still to her ear. INT. HARPER'S APARTMENT - EVENING Harper and Ben sit on the couch. Ben turns to face Harper. She glances over at him. BEN So, I guess I should tell you why I'm really here. HARPER Yeah, that'd be good. Harper shifts a little toward Ben. BEN It didn't feel right when you left. Harper tips her head slightly. HARPER Didn't feel right? What didn't feel right? BEN I don't know. Being in Miami after graduation. You were gone. Everyone had left. HARPER I'm sure it's a lot different now. That's why you came to New York? Ben shrugs a little. BEN I guess I wanted to see you? HARPER Why does it seem like you don't know why you're here? BEN Come on. You know I'm not good at this stuff, Harper. HARPER What stuff though? You won't even tell me why you're here. Ben looks down. HARPER (CONT'D) I'm sorry. It's just that you're not really saying anything. He looks up at her and nods. BEN Harper, please don't make this harder than it is. HARPER I'm not trying to, but I don't know what you're tryin' to say. There's a KNOCK at the door. Harper puts a finger up to Ben. HARPER (CONT'D) Sorry. Hold that thought for a minute. Harper gets up off the couch and walks to the door. She opens the door and see Matt in front of her. HARPER (CONT'D) Hey Matt! As Matt speaks, he sees Ben on the couch. MATT Hey. HARPER I didn't hear from ya today. How was your day? Matt shakes his head? HARPER (CONT'D) What's up? MATT What's he doing here again? HARPER Seriously, Matt? What's with you? MATT Nothing. Every time I come over, he's here. I wanted to hang out, celebrate your job. HARPER He can hear you, ya know. He's leaving in the next day or two, so we just had some things to talk about. Can I call you in a bit, and we can hang out tonight? Matt nods slowly and looks at Ben again. Ben stares out toward the balcony at the city. MATT Yeah. I don't want to interrupt whatever you got going on here. I'll see you later. He turns quickly and walks away. Harper takes a deep breath, shuts the door gently, and walks back to the couch. She resumes her position next to Ben. HARPER Sorry about that. Ben gives Harper a small smile and shakes his head a little. HARPER (CONT'D) What? BEN Nothing. He has impeccable timing. He gives a half-hearted laugh. HARPER Why don't you finish what you were trying to say before? BEN Oh, I was just saying it's been an adjustment with you gone. HARPER But we weren't really spending that much time together the last semester, after -- BEN I know, which made it even harder. Harper's eyes widen, as she looks at Ben. HARPER How? We agreed not being together was the best decision at the time. BEN Yeah. At the time. Did we really both agree on that? HARPER Um, yeah. At least that's the conversation I remember having. BEN I'm sure I agreed, but what was the reason we even broke up? HARPER Ben, we can't do this now. BEN Why? I think there's some things we still need to talk about. Harper gets up from the couch and paces back and forth a few times in front of the sliding glass door to the balcony. HARPER Not really. I'm in New York now with a new job and apartment, and there were reasons we decided not to be together. BEN Like what? HARPER Ben, why are you doing this? I'm not in a position to be in a relationship right now. BEN Unless it's with Matt, right? Harper stops and turns toward Ben. HARPER What? Why would you say that? Ben shakes his head, gets up, and walks toward to door. Ben open the door and turns toward Harper. HARPER (CONT'D) Where are you going? BEN I had come here to tell you how I feel about you, still feel about you, but it's clear I will never stack up to Matt. Everyone sees it, Harper. Good luck to you. Ben walks out the door. HARPER Ben -- The door SLAMS. Harper stands in the living room and stares at the door. Tears begin to fall down her face and her breaths are short, as she gasps for air. INT. MATT'S APARTMENT - NIGHT Matt opens the door to Harper. He does not speak, but she walks in and reaches to hug him. Matt is hesitant at first and gives her a half-hearted hug in return. Harper moves away from Matt and looks at him for a moment with a frown. He says nothing. HARPER Are you sure you wanted me to come over, Matt? MATT Yeah, it's fine. We made plans. You know I wouldn't cancel. HARPER Well, I know that, but it doesn't really seem like you're into hanging out. MATT What do you mean? Thought you wanted to celebrate the new job. Harper walks over to Matt's couch and sits down. Matt follows and sits down next to her. HARPER I did but not if you're not feelin' it. Everything okay Matt? MATT Yep, why? HARPER You haven't really been yourself. Matt turns his body to face Harper, but she doesn't look at him. MATT What do you mean I'm not myself? We haven't even hung out much the last few days, since Ben's been here. Harper shakes her head but still does not look at Matt. HARPER Ah, there it is. Back to Ben. Why does he keep coming up? MATT I don't know, Harp. Maybe you should tell me. HARPER Tell you what? There's nothing to tell, really. You keep bringing up that he came to New York. He's not even here anymore. She slowly looks at Matt. He gives a small smile. MATT He's not? HARPER No, but I don't get why you even care. You've made it clear you never cared for him, but he's never done anything to you, Matt. You coulda given him a chance. MATT Why? I knew it wouldn't work out with you two. HARPER You had no way of knowing that. MATT Yeah, I kinda did. Harper furrows her brows and tips her head in confusion. HARPER You've never acted like this before. I don't understand. MATT I'm not trying to act any different than usual, but I can't help when I feel strongly about something. HARPER You know what? My sister is coming to visit in the morning, so maybe we should hold off the celebration for another night. Harper gets up and walks to the door. Matt does not move from the couch, just watches Harper walk away. Harper gets to the door and turns to Matt. He gets up and walks toward her, his head down. Harper looks at Matt in front of her. He reaches out and touches her shoulder. MATT I'm not trying to be difficult, Harp. I think you'll get it eventually. HARPER No. I don't know. I'll call you after Leah leaves. Hopefully you're a little more yourself then. Harper turns, opens the door, and walks out. Matt stands in the doorway and watches her walk away from his apartment. INT. HARPER'S APARTMENT - EARLY MORNING The morning sun beams in through the sliding glass doors. Harper and Leah sit on the couch in their pajamas, each with a bowl of cereal. Harper's face is somber, and she stares out the sliding glass door at the city. LEAH Harper? You okay? Harper snaps her head back toward Leah, as if she startles her out of a trance. She stares blankly at Leah before she speaks. HARPER Huh? What did you say? I kinda zoned out for a minute. LEAH Yeah, thought so. What's got you so distracted this early? HARPER Just a lot on my mind after talking to Matt last night. LEAH Well, it might be something between you two, but if you need to talk, you know I'm here. HARPER Thanks, Leah. That means a lot, but it seems like you have a lot going on too. LEAH Yeah, but it's okay. We can talk about it. Harper sets her bowl on the coffee table in front of her and shrugs. HARPER I'm sure it'll be fine. Matt's just not acting himself, and it's bothering me. Leah listens carefully to her sister. Harper stops and stares outside again with a glazed over look in her eyes. HARPER (CONT'D) I don't wanna give him space, but that's the vibe he's giving off. He's never done that before. Not 'til Ben showed up. LEAH Maybe he felt like that's what you wanted, or maybe he has a hard time being around you and Ben together. I know you and Ben aren't together, but maybe he just -- HARPER Leah, why would that bother him? It's not like I ever stopped being friends with Matt when Ben are I were even together. Harper looks at Leah. LEAH Harp, it's obvious you two share more than friendship. Maybe it's hard for him to see you around Ben. Don't you see the way he looks at you? HARPER No, no. We've been best friends practically forever, nothing more. Leah shakes her head and laughs at Harper's statement. HARPER (CONT'D) What? LEAH If you say so, but it seems like there's something there. The way he looks at you isn't just the look of a best friend. There's always been something. Harper shakes her head. HARPER You don't know what you're talking about. Leah smiles at Harper. LEAH Right. Leah looks down at her cereal bowl for a moment and puts it on the coffee table. She leans back on the couch and stares in front of her. HARPER Leah? You still haven't told me what's so important that you couldn't say over the phone. LEAH Well, it's probably good I came anyway. I wanted to see you and the apartment, and it's been forever since I've been to New York. HARPER That's nice, but that's not really why you came. What's up, Leah? Harper leans back against the couch, crosses her legs Indian style, and crosses her arms. She looks at Leah with wide eyes and waits for her answer. Leah puts her head down. HARPER (CONT'D) Leah. Come on. It can't be that bad. We've already been through the worst possible thing that could happen to us. Leah looks at Harper and brings her legs up under her. LEAH True, but this isn't going to make it any easier, Harp, which makes it hard to say. HARPER Well if I'm somehow getting through Mom and Dad dying, I think I can take it. LEAH I hate being the one to tell you this, but something keeps telling me you need to know. HARPER Okay, Leah. Get to it, please. Leah takes a deep breath and looks at Harper. LEAH Okay. Here it goes. (beat) This isn't easy for me either, but it has to be done. I have to be the one to do it. Harper, you have a twin sister. Harper stares at her sister in disbelief with wide eyes and mouth open. HARPER I'm sorry. What'd you say? Leah nods. LEAH You heard right the first time. You have another sister, Harp. A twin. HARPER I don't believe it. How would you know that? LEAH I overheard Mom on the phone with Aunt Gina when I was fifteen. HARPER You heard her say I have a twin sister? LEAH Yeah. I heard her say sometimes she wished you knew your twin sister. Harper puts her head in her hands and does not speak. LEAH (CONT'D) Harp, I'm so sorry. HARPER You knew for ten years, Leah! Ten years! Don't you think you should've said something a little sooner? LEAH I didn't know if it was the right thing. I didn't know how it would affect our family or if you'd even want to know. Harper breathes heavily and begins to gasp for air. She holds her chest, and tears stream down her face. Harper gets up and starts to walk away. LEAH (CONT'D) Harper, wait! Are you okay? I'm so sor -- Harper SLAMS her bedroom door. INT. NEW YORK TIMES HEADQUARTERS - LATE AFTERNOON Harper is inside a big room with white walls and open spaces. Against the far wall is a backdrop and lighting. A tall, slender, blonde female MODEL, 20, walks over to Harper. Harper looks at the pictures on the camera. HARPER These will be great. Thank you for everything. You were great! These turned out just like they wanted. MODEL Oh, wow. I love them. You were great to work with. I'm really happy with everything. HARPER That's good to hear. EXT. NEW YORK TIMES HEADQUARTERS - LATE AFTERNOON Harper stands outside the building. A leather work bag and purse are on her shoulder. Harper hails a taxi, gets in the one that pulls to the curb, and it drives off. EXT. MARKET - EARLY EVENING Harper steps out of the taxi, as it pulls up to the curb in front of the market. She walks into the market. EXT. HARPER'S APARTMENT BUILDING - EVENING The taxi pulls up in front of the building, and Harper steps out. She walks into the parking garage to enter the building with a reusable grocery bag of food. INT. HARPER'S APARTMENT - EVENING Harper walks into her apartment and puts her keys, work bag, grocery bag, and purse on the small table to the right. She slips her heels off and leaves them on the mat inside the doorway, then walks in a little further. INT. HARPER'S APARTMENT - HARPER'S ROOM - EARLY MORNING Harper lays under the covers in her bed. The morning sunlight streams in through the window above her bed. She opens her eyes, sits up, and stretches her arms out. Harper reaches for her cell phone next to her bed on the night stand. INT. MATT'S APARTMENT - MATT'S ROOM - EARLY MORNING Matt lays in bed, eyes shut. Bright light streams in and lights up the room. His cell phone lights up and RINGS loudly beside him on the night stand. Matt blinks, and his eyes open slowly when he hears the RING. He grabs for the phone beside him but does not look at what he does. When he finds the phone, he picks it up. MATT Hello? HARPER (V.O.) Happy birthday! MATT Oh that's right. Thanks Harp. HARPER (V.O.) Don't tell me you forgot! You can't forget your own birthday, Matt. I just woke up but couldn't wait any longer to call. Sorry if I woke you up. MATT It's okay. I'm sure I would have woken up soon anyway. I didn't think you were talking to me. HARPER (V.O.) I think I needed a little time, or maybe I thought you needed some space. Either way, I wouldn't miss your birthday. MATT Thanks, Harp, and I didn't need space. HARPER (V.O.) What do you want to do tonight? MATT Actually, I think I just want you to come over and hang out here, get some pizza, have some wine, maybe watch a movie. Is that cool with you? HARPER (V.O.) Perfect. We haven't done that in awhile. I'll be there around six? MATT Great. See ya then, Harp. HARPER (V.O.) 'Kay. See ya later, birthday boy! EXT. MIX IT UP FROZEN YOGURT - DAY Harper and Leah sit outside the yogurt shop and each eat their yogurt. Neither speaks for a moment. Leah breaks the silence, puts her spoon down in her yogurt cup, and looks at her sister. LEAH I know you're upset, Harp, but thanks for coming out with me. HARPER I wasn't gonna leave you by yourself, and I'm mostly just disappointed. Disappointed in Mom and Dad, which I hate, Aunt Gina, and you. LEAH I know. I'm disappointed in Mom and Dad too, but then, I feel guilty 'cause they're gone. Harper finishes her yogurt, puts the spoon in the cup, and sets it on the table in front of her. HARPER Exactly. I don't like being disappointed with you or Aunt Gina. It's just, I thought you woulda told me something like that when you found out, Leah. LEAH I never knew what to do with that kind of information. I never told anyone what I'd heard 'til a few weeks ago, when I told Aunt Gina. Harper nods slowly, pushes her chair back a little, and looks at people who pass by on the sidewalk. HARPER In a way, it kinda feels like you betrayed me all those years, especially since she's my twin sister. LEAH No. Please don't think that. I would never intentionally hurt you. HARPER I know that, but you did, Leah. Leah nods and looks down at the ground. LEAH In a way, I was protecting you, and maybe some part of me was worried about losing you to another sister. HARPER Leah, -- LEAH I know. That's selfish of me. HARPER Well, it is, but you've been my sister for twenty-two years. Why would that change? LEAH I don't know. I don't know how else to explain it. Leah looks up at Harper, who says nothing. INT. MATT'S APARTMENT - DAY Harper sits back, legs under her on the couch. Two glasses of wine are on the coffee table in front of her. The TELEVISION is on low in the background. She looks up as Matt walks from the kitchen and uses. He has a pizza, paper plates, and napkins. Matt sets everything down on the table and sits next to Harper on the couch. Matt opens the pizza box and puts two pieces on a plate. He hands it to Harper. She takes the plate and smiles at Matt. They each pick up a glass of wine from the table. Harper holds her glass up a little higher, and Matt looks at her. HARPER Happy Birthday! Matt lifts his glass, and they CLINK glasses. MATT Thank you. I can't think of a better way to spend it. He smiles at Harper. HARPER Thank you. It's just what I needed too. MATT Pizza always helps. Wine doesn't hurt either. He looks at Harper with a smirk. Harper scoots up to the table and puts her plate and glass down. She leans down in front of her and picks up a big, square shaped gift wrapped in green paper. Harper pulls the gift off the floor, looks at Matt with a smile, and gives it to him. MATT (CONT'D) Wow! What's this? He takes the gift. HARPER Oh, come on. Don't act like you're surprised! They both laugh. MATT You didn't have to, Harp. You should be saving your money. HARPER It's fine. You'll see. Just open it. He unwraps the package and tosses the paper to the side on the floor. He holds the gift in front of him and stares at it for a moment, then looks at Harper. HARPER (CONT'D) You like it? Matt looks at a huge photograph in a frame of the New York skyline with the Statue of Liberty and water in the background MATT Like it? Harper, it's amazing. It's one you took. Harper smiles and looks at the photograph. HARPER Yeah, I know you really liked that one. Thought it might be nice in the apartment. She looks around at the empty walls. MATT I love it, and it'll definitely be going up. HARPER Good. I'm glad you like it. Matt sets the picture on the floor and leans it against the side of the table. He leans over and hugs Harper. HARPER (CONT'D) Happy Birthday, Matt. MATT Thanks. They resume positions on the couch and both grab their plates of pizza off the table in front of them. MATT (CONT'D) So how's Leah? I haven't even gotten to see her while she's been here. It seemed like you didn't want to see me, when you said you'd call after she left. HARPER Well, I wasn't trying to act like I didn't wanna see you. You just weren't acting yourself, so I thought you wanted some space. I was frustrated. MATT Let's not get into all that now, Harp. Leah's still here, isn't she? Harper nods and takes a bite of pizza. She looks up at the television and does not speak. Matt watches her for a moment. He eats some of his pizza and continues to look at Harper. MATT (CONT'D) Harp? She does not break her concentration on the television. HARPER Yeah? As she answers, a tear streams down her cheek. She still does not look at Matt. Matt places his plate back on the table, moves a little closer to Harper, and puts a hand on her back. MATT What is it? What's wrong? Harper shakes her head. MATT (CONT'D) Something happened. Is it Leah? She shakes her head again. HARPER I don't want to ruin your birthday. Matt smirks and rubs Harper's back. MATT You're not ruining my birthday. It's just us here, come on. Tell me what's wrong. Harper puts her plate on the table, takes a drink of wine, and puts the glass down. Harper changes her position on the couch to face Matt. Harper takes a deep breath and puts her head in her hands. She clutches her chest and gasp. She tries to speak, but nothing comes out. Harper begins to sob and continues to gasp for air. Matt moves closer to Harper and takes her hand. MATT (CONT'D) Oh, Harp. You didn't tell me this was still happening. The panic attacks. Harper shakes her head. MATT (CONT'D) Try to take a deep breath. Whatever it is, it's okay. It can't be worse than what you've been through. Just remember that. She nods, while trying to take slow, deep breaths. MATT (CONT'D) Take your time. I'm here. He puts a hand on her shoulder and pulls her closer to him. Her breaths slow. MATT (CONT'D) It's okay. Harper nods and looks up at Matt. He smiles down at Harper as she rests her head on his shoulder. She tries to smile but take one more deep breath. Matt wipes at the tears on her face. Harper closes her eyes for a moment. MATT (CONT'D) You can tell me when you're ready. HARPER Sorry. I didn't mean to just fall apart like that, and I've been doing better with the panic attacks. MATT Don't apologize. If you can't fall apart with me, then who can you fall apart with? She sits up, looks at Matt, and tries to give a small smile. HARPER That's true, but you have enough going on with a new job and apartment. Plus, your birthday. This is the last thing you need. MATT You know you can always come to me. I'm your best friend, remember? Matt stares off for a moment past Harper. HARPER That's good 'cause I don't know what I'd do without you most of the time. Matt smiles and pats her leg. MATT Ditto. HARPER So, Leah had to come here to tell me something she couldn't do over the phone. MATT Oh. What did she need to tell you? Harper takes another deep breath and looks at Matt. HARPER That I have a twin sister. Matt looks at Harper with wide eyes in shock. MATT What? HARPER Yeah, that's what I said. Apparently, Leah overheard my mom on the phone with Gina about ten years ago. She thought I needed to know now. MATT Oh, Harper. I see why you're upset. HARPER I kinda feel betrayed by everyone. I know they were trying to protect me but still. She shakes her head and glances toward the television. MATT I don't think your sister was trying to betray or hurt you. I know she can be a little selfish sometimes, but I don't think she hurt you intentionally. Harper looks back to Matt. HARPER Yeah, I'm trying to keep that in mind. MATT I know it probably seems like the last thing you'd want to know after losing your parents. HARPER Yeah, let's hope it can't get worse. Matt reaches for his glass of wine and gets Harper's too. He hands her the glass. They both take a drink and put the glasses back. MATT What are you gonna do? Harper shrugs. HARPER I don't know. Leah said Aunt Gina has all the information if I'd wanna meet her, but I don't know if I'm ready for that right now. Or ever. MATT Well, don't let anyone force you into it. If and when you're ready, you'll know. HARPER Yeah, I guess you're right. INT. COFFEE SHOP - MORNING Harper and Leah sit a table in the corner, each with a cup of coffee in front of them. Harper looks down at her coffee and spins the cup around slowly. HARPER Well, you beat me to it. I was gonna talk to you this morning about all of this. Leah looks down and back up at Harper. Harper still stares at her coffee. LEAH I'm so sorry. I never knew what to do with the information. It could've changed everything if I had ever said anything. HARPER Exactly, so don't you think you should've told me. I know we already discussed this, but -- LEAH I guess I'll never really know the answer to that. It was the hardest decision, whether to keep it to myself, trying to deal with that alone, or to say something. HARPER But I'm your sister. If you knew, then I shoulda known too. LEAH Maybe. I don't like the way you found out, but I don't like that I even knew at all. I wish I could go back to that day when I heard Mom on the phone with Aunt Gina. Harper looks up at Leah. HARPER Did you tell anyone? LEAH Not until I talked about it with Aunt Gina a few weeks ago. Harp, it was always just the two of us, and that's how I like it. (beat) I know this is probably even harder for you, since she's your twin. HARPER Yeah, it's pretty surreal. I don't even know what to do. I mean -- LEAH I try to think of it as if it was all meant to work out this way, since Mom and Dad are gone now. HARPER I thought about that. Maybe we were supposed to be led to her now. Our family is basically gone without them, but at the same time, we have a sister we've never met. LEAH Exactly. Thanks for not hating me. Neither speaks for a moment. Harper shrugs, and a tear streams down her face. She wipes it away and looks at Leah. LEAH (CONT'D) Oh, Harp. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you upset. HARPER No, it's not you. I just have so many emotions right now. I'm so overwhelmed with everything. LEAH I know what you mean. It's been so hard. We've been through a lot lately. Harper looks at her sister. She nods slowly. INT. HARPER'S APARTMENT - MORNING As Harper closes the dishwasher and turns around, Leah stands in front of her with a small box. She wears her pajamas, fleece pants and a long sleeved tee shirt. HARPER Oh! I didn't see ya there. She looks at the box Leah holds. HARPER (CONT'D) What's that? LEAH I don't want to upset you, but I'm going to leave this with you. I don't want you to open it 'til I leave today. Please promise me that. I don't want to open it together. It's too hard. HARPER Okay. I promise. Why is it something that'd make me upset? LEAH It's a box of mom's that Aunt Gina had. She wanted me to give it to you. Harper looks at Leah with a stern face. HARPER I see. I've never seen that box before. LEAH I know. Aunt Gina's had it for a long time. We can talk about it when I get back home, after you open it. HARPER Okay. LEAH I'm going to get showered and get my stuff together. HARPER 'Kay. Harper starts to walk toward the edge of the kitchen in the direction of her room. INT. HARPER'S APARTMENT BUILDING - HALLWAY - LATE MORNING Leah exits Harper's apartment and walks out into the hallway with her suitcase and purse. Harper follows. HARPER I know it was a short visit, but I really am glad you came. It was probably best. LEAH Yeah, it just felt right to come see you. HARPER Definitely. Hopefully I can make it home to visit soon. Maybe when I'm done with this job. Leah smiles at Harper. One tears streams down her cheek. LEAH I hope so. HARPER 'Kay. You have me a little worried about that box, but I'm thinking it can't get much worse. LEAH It'll be okay. Alright, I'm off to the airport. Thanks for having me. It was so good to see you, Harp. Harper and Leah hug, and Harper holds back tears, as she walks toward the elevator across from her apartment. The elevator DINGS, doors open, and Leah steps in with her bags. She waves to Harper, and the doors shut. Harper does no move for a moment and stares blankly at the elevator. INT. MATT'S APARTMENT - MATT'S ROOM - AFTERNOON Harper and Harper sit on Matt's bed, the box Leah left between them. She puts her hands firmly on her legs. Matt looks at Harper. MATT I'm glad you opened it. HARPER Well, I figured if it Aunt Gina had it all these years and wanted me to have it, then it must be something important. MATT That's true. So all the information on your twin sister is in here? HARPER Yep, everything I'd need to know if I want to meet her. MATT Have you thought about it anymore? Matt opens the box and flips through some of the adoption paperwork and old pictures. HARPER I have, actually. Matt freezes and looks at Harper. MATT Really? So what'd you decide? HARPER For some reason, it feels like I should meet her. Matt nods and puts a hand on Harper's leg. MATT I knew you'd say that. I think it's the right thing. HARPER Leah and I talked before she left about how maybe now is when we were supposed to figure this out, since Mom and Dad are gone. If we have a sister, maybe we should reach out. MATT Wow. I'm impressed. You're really trying. That's great. I think the only way you will be able to feel good about moving on is if you do this. HARPER Yeah, it's definitely not gonna be easy though. I don't know if I'm truly ready, but I need to do it. MATT We'll get through it, Harp. HARPER We? MATT Of course. You know I'm here for you, and I'll help you make sense of it all. Harper lays her head on Matt's shoulder and puts her arm on his chest. HARPER I know you will, Matt. I know I say it a lot, but I don't know what I'd do without you. Really. Matt rubs Harper's arm and smiles. MATT I feel the same. Still with her head on Matt, Harper looks up at him. Matt stares back at him, and they look at each other. After a moment, Harper breaks the stare and looks down at the box. HARPER I was planning on leaving for Florida in a couple weeks. Would you wanna go with me? You could see your family while we're there. MATT I'd love to. HARPER It'll just be for a weekend. MATT Perfect. HARPER Oh, there's something else I decided recently. MATT Oh yeah? What's that? HARPER After I finish this job at The New York Times, I'm going to try to open my own photography studio. MATT Harp, that's amazing. I know you've always wanted to do something like that. HARPER Yeah, I think it'd help me move on too and start fresh here with something of my own. MATT I agree. I can't wait. It'll be great, and I can help you look for places. HARPER Really? MATT Of course. EXT. RUDY'S BAR AND GRILL - EVENING Harper and Jamie sit in the outdoor patio in their dress clothes with their work bags and purses slung on a seat beside them. Two margaritas are on the table in front of the girls. JAMIE Thanks for coming out for a bit. I know you have to start packing and stuff. HARPER Oh, sure. It's been a long week. I needed a drink too. She picks up her margarita and takes a drink. JAMIE Yeah, you've had a stressful week. Are you excited about going home for a few days? HARPER It'll be good to see my aunt and sister, but I'm a little nervous about the whole twin sister situation. JAMIE That's understandable. Matt's going with you, right? Jamie picks up her drink and take a sip. Harper nods. HARPER Yeah, that'll be nice. He can see his family too, and it'll be good to have him there for support. JAMIE He seems like a really great friend, from what you've told me. HARPER He's the best. I just told him the other day I don't know what I'd do most of the time without him. JAMIE Seems like he's supportive and always there for you. It must be amazing to have such a good friend like that. HARPER Yeah, he is amazing. JAMIE So you guys are just friends? Harper chuckles. JAMIE (CONT'D) What? HARPER Nothing, it's just that it seems like everyone asks me that. JAMIE Oh, sorry I di -- HARPER No, it's okay, but yeah, he's my best friend. He has been since we were kids. JAMIE Have you guys ever tried to be more? HARPER No. It's never been like that. JAMIE Gotcha. It's just rare to find someone like that. Harper nods and does not say anything in response. JAMIE (CONT'D) I can't believe you only have three more weeks at The Times. It's been fun having you there. It's gone so fast! HARPER Oh my gosh. I think I'll have a really hard time leaving. I owe you big time, Jamie. I don't know what I'd be doing if you hadn't recommended me for that job. JAMIE Oh, please. You don't owe me anything! I wanted to do it. I thought it'd be a good fit and hopefully give you more opportunities. HARPER I couldn't have asked for a better opportunity for my first job here. Thank you so much, Jamie. You have no idea. Harper smiles and Jamie, and the girls CLINK their margaritas together. JAMIE To new beginnings! HARPER Yes. New beginnings! EXT. VACANT COMMERCIAL PROPERTY - DAY An empty commercial property in a row of other businesses has For Rent sign in window. Matt shakes hands with a woman who wears a black business suit. As they part ways, she walks away from the building down the New York street. EXT. CENTRAL PARK - DAY Morning sun shines brightly. Matt and Harper wear shorts, tee shirts, and flip flops as they walk casually through the park. MATT Can you keep walking with me for a bit longer? I wanted to show you something, and it's not too far from here. HARPER Oh, okay. Yeah, that's fine. MATT You excited to go tomorrow? HARPER I'm a little more nervous now. I'm glad you're goin' with me. MATT Me too, and I'm excited to see my family. My parents are glad I'm coming. Harper does not speak. She just looks around at the people who pass in the park and the beautiful flowers and landscaping. MATT (CONT'D) Oh, Harp. I didn't mean to -- HARPER No, it's okay. It's fine. You have to talk about your parents. They're part of your life. MATT Still. I'm sorry. Harper looks over at Matt and gives a small smile. EXT. VACANT COMMERCIAL PROPERTY - DAY Harper and Matt walk down the sidewalk and pass businesses and apartment buildings. Matt walks very slowly, and Harper walks next to him. Neither speaks. They take a few more steps, and suddenly Matt stops. Harper takes a few more steps and realizes Matt is no longer next to her. She stops and looks behind her at Matt. HARPER Why are you stopping? MATT Hang on a minute. Harper turns to Matt a little. MATT (CONT'D) Come here. Harper takes a few steps over to where Matt stands. HARPER What? Why'd you stop here? Matt points to the building beside them. HARPER (CONT'D) What's this? MATT This is it! Harper looks at the building, then to Matt. She shrugs and shakes her head slowly. MATT (CONT'D) This is where your photography studio will be! Harper looks at the building again and back at Matt. HARPER I'm confused. My photography studio? MATT Yes. I bought the building. We'll make it happen, Harp. We will open your studio and make your dream happen. HARPER We? You bought this? MATT I did. I bought it. You deserve it, and I want to help. HARPER But you really -- MATT I want to, Harp. End of story. HARPER You can't afford this, Matt. You shouldn't have -- MATT Harper. I have it handled. Don't worry about it. I wouldn't have done it if I didn't want to. You know that. Harper nods, jumps up a little, and hugs Matt. MATT (CONT'D) It'll be awesome when it's done. HARPER Oh, Matt. This is the nicest thing anyone's ever done for me. Matt looks at Harper and smiles. MATT I'm glad you're excited. HARPER Excited? I'm more than excited. This is the best thing that's happened to me in a very long time, and you made it happen. That means so much. Matt shifts his feet on sidewalk and fidgets with his hands. HARPER (CONT'D) What's wrong? MATT Even after the way I acted when Ben was here and everything? We're really okay? HARPER What? I thought we were past that. MATT Well, I think we are, but we never really talked about it. Harper shrugs. HARPER Things happen, Matt. You don't always have to be the strong one. I gave you the space I thought you needed, and we're good now. It's fine. Matt nods at Harper. MATT I've been thinking a lot. HARPER Okay. Matt, what's goin' on? MATT No, it's nothing bad. At least I don't think. He gives a nervous laugh. HARPER Then what's up? Matt takes Harper's other hand, both of hers in his and looks directly at her. Harper narrows her eyes, looks at Matt intensely. MATT Relax. He hugs her gently and take her hands again. MATT (CONT'D) Harp, you've always been the only person I can really count on no matter what. HARPER I feel the same. You know that. MATT I do, but it's more than that. You tell me all the time you don't know what you'd do without me, and I hope I don't ever have to know what it's like without you in my life. Harper nods her head and stares back at him. HARPER I can't imagine. He looks down at sidewalk for a moment and back to her. MATT It's you, Harper. It will always be you. HARPER What? MATT You're the one who's never stopped loving and supporting me. Harper stares at Matt, speechless. He squeezes her hands in his and smiles a little. MATT (CONT'D) You don't have to say anything, but I need you to know. I don't know why it took me so long to realize it or tell you. He touches the side of her face gently and pulls her close. MATT (CONT'D) I love you. I'm in love with you. Harper wraps her arms around Matt, lays her head on his chest, and looks up at him. He stares down into her eyes and smiles. Matt puts his hand under her chin and lifts her face slightly up to his. She moves in closer. They kiss for the first time. Softly, at first. She pulls away slowly and looks at him. HARPER I love you too. That will never change. You're everything to me. He nods slowly and does not let her go. He kisses her again, a little more this time, then breaks away. MATT I hoped you'd say that. HARPER I never really thought this would happen. You're my best friend, and I never wanted to ruin that. He looks at her for a second without a word. MATT But -- Her arms still around Matt. HARPER We're obviously supposed to be more than friends. I shoulda listened to my friends and family when they asked me a million times if there was more between us. The two get closer and kiss again. Matt's hands on Harper's face, hers move down his arms. MATT Maybe I should've told you how I felt sooner. HARPER The timing had to be right. It was meant to happen now. I really believe that. I love you. She smiles up at him, and Matt wraps his arms around Harper tightly and begins to kiss her. She deepens the kiss. INT. AUNT GINA'S HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - EVENING Harper comes through the front door and into the house with a suitcase and purse. She wears a black sleeveless shirt, khaki shorts, and black sandals. Gina and Leah get up from the couch and rush over to Harper. Harper sets her suitcase inside the door and puts her purse on the floor beside it. AUNT GINA Oh, Harper! It's so good to see you. HARPER You too, Aunt Gina. It's good to be home. Harper and her aunt hug. Leah hugs Harper next. LEAH Hey! How was the flight? HARPER Pretty good. Was nice having Matt with me. Harper smiles at her sister. AUNT GINA So I here you two are together now? Gina smirks at Harper, and Harper looks down but nods. AUNT GINA (CONT'D) I'm so glad. I knew it would happen sooner or later. HARPER Seems like everyone did. Well, except us. The three laugh. AUNT GINA You deserve to be happy, and Matt has always been so good to you. I know he'll take good care of you. HARPER Thanks. I'm lucky to have him. I can't really imagine anyone else. LEAH I'm so happy for you guys, Harp. Harper looks at her sister, her smile slowly fades. HARPER Thanks. Harper walks in further and sits in the brown leather chair. Leah and Gina follow and sit down on the couch. AUNT GINA Harper, I want you to know I'm sorry. HARPER For what? AUNT GINA That I knew all these years that you had a twin sister. I don't want you to feel like I was keeping it from you. HARPER Leah and I talked about it actually. I was really hurt at first and felt betrayed. I'd be lying if I said I didn't still feel a little betrayed, but it's fine. AUNT GINA It was only right that you found out now. I believe you made the right decision in coming back to meet her. As she listens to her aunt, Harper nods in agreement. HARPER It still scares me, but it seemed like the right thing. LEAH You still want me to go with you right? HARPER Of course. She's your sister too. LEAH I know, but it's different for you. She's your twin. Harper laughs and shakes her head. HARPER No. She's our sister. We will both go. LEAH Okay. Tomorrow we'll meet our sister. Wow. That's kinda surreal to say. HARPER It really is. INT. AUNT GINA'S HOUSE - BEDROOM - NIGHT Harper lays in bed under the covers and props up against a pillow. A light is on next to her on the night stand. The rest of the room is dark. Harper hold her cell phone to her ear. MATT (V.O.) Hey, you. Harper smiles to herself. HARPER Hi there. How's your night been? MATT (V.O.) Pretty good. It was really good to see the family. We had dinner and just hung out here at the house. HARPER That sounds nice. I'm glad you came and are spending time with them. I know they miss you. MATT (V.O.) Yeah, and I miss you. HARPER Already? Harper giggles. MATT (V.O.) Of course. I wish I was there with you to say good night. HARPER Me too. Oh, Matt. I'm pretty tired, and tomorrow's a big day. Can we talk in the morning? MATT (V.O.) Yeah. I'm heading to bed too. HARPER 'Kay. I'll stop over tomorrow before Leah and I go to meet Hayden. (beat) Wow, it's strange even saying her name. MATT (V.O.) Tomorrow will be better than you think. You'll see. I'm excited for you to meet her. Okay, Harp. Get some sleep. I love you. HARPER Sleep well. I love you too, Matt. Harper ends the call, puts the phone on the night stand, and smiles to herself. EXT. CRABBY BILL'S SEAFOOD - DAY Leah leads the way from the parking lot to the front of the restaurant. She stops near he door and turns to Harper. LEAH Okay. In the e-mail, she said to meet upstairs outside. Harper gives a nod and starts to follow Leah. HARPER Wait! Leah stops and turns to Harper. LEAH What's wrong? Harper takes a deep breath. HARPER Well, besides being incredibly nervous, we don't know what she looks like. LEAH Seriously, Harp? She's your identical twin sister. I didn't really think there would be a problem finding her! HARPER Right. You have a point. Harper points straight ahead. HARPER (CONT'D) 'Kay. It's now or never. Let's go before I lose my nerve. The two take the outside steps to the upper level of the building. When they get to the top they walk to the hostess stand and stop. Both look around the restaurant. The HOSTESS, 30, stands in front of them. HOSTESS Hi! Welcome to Crabby Bill's! Two this afternoon? LEAH Um, actually three. We're meeting someone. She might be here already. Harper continues to look around. She grabs Leah's arm. LEAH (CONT'D) What? HARPER Look. Over in the corner. I think that's her. In the corner of the restaurant sits HAYDEN, 22, with long, smooth black hair and light skin. She wears a navy blue skirt and a white blouse with wedged sandals. Hayden turns around and spots Harper and Leah for the first time. All three girls freeze and stare at one another. HARPER (CONT'D) Wow. HOSTESS Did you find who you're meeting? If so, you can go on over. HARPER Yeah. We did. Leah leads the way over to Hayden, and Harper follows. FADE OUT.
© 2012 tmb219Author's Note
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Added on December 4, 2012 Last Updated on December 4, 2012 Tags: best friends, love, relationships, death, family Author |
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