FOR LIFE

by

Steve Weissman

Copyright © 2020 Steve Weissman

All rights reserved.

ISBN: 978-0-6487941-7-2

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 - Ruthy

Chapter 2 - Taylor

Chapter 3 - Amber

Chapter 4 - FOR MOM & DAD

Chapter 5 - Trusty

Chapter 6 - The Golden Years

Chapter 7 - The Books

Chapter 8 - Birthday Present

Chapter 9 - The Swing song

Chapter 10 - A big heart

Chapter 11 - Alert Security

Chapter 12 - The Chocolates

Chapter 13 - Spence & family

Chapter 14 - It's my birthday

Chapter 15 - Ruthy's happy party

Chapter 16 - Lovely

Chapter 17 - Nice try

Chapter 18 - Amber takes charge

Chapter 19 - Fear

Chapter 20 - Yes... Mommy

Chapter 21 - That's too bad

Chapter 22 - What's wrong?

Chapter 23 - Shit!

Chapter 24 - Ruthy's diagnosis

Chapter 25 - Do you realize?

Chapter 26 - The Health Care Proxy

Chapter 27 - It's always a maybe

Chapter 28 - She shuffles by

Chapter 29 - A different way?

Chapter 30 - Stop it!

Chapter 31 - Why?

Chapter 32 - Bastard!

Chapter 33 - The legal decision

Chapter 34 - Give 'em something to film

Chapter 35 - Butterflies

Chapter 36 - You and I

Chapter 37 - What price?

Chapter 38 - Beautiful day, honey

Chapter 39 - Talk to my daughter

Chapter 40 - Cherries

Chapter 41 - "DEADLY COMPASSION"

Chapter 42 - Missing good friends

Chapter 43 - Trying to tell us something

Chapter 44 - What's going on?

Chapter 45 - Humans can

Chapter 46 - Thank you

Chapter 47 - Me, too

Chapter 48 - Joelle, stop!

Chapter 49 - Never

Chapter 50 - What now?

Chapter 51 - It is possible

Chapter 52 - Lost

Chapter 53 - Help!

Chapter 54 - I thought I understood

Chapter 55 - Ready

Chapter 56 - Taylor arrives

Chapter 57 - The Convention

Chapter 58 - Ruthy did it

Chapter 59 - Will you help me?

Chapter 60 - For Life

About the Author

Steve's 13 stories

* * * * *

Chapter 1 - Ruthy

* * * * *

Sandwiched between a McDonald's and a 7-Eleven, men unload donated items to a Salvation Army secondhand store.

A woman exits the store clasping her baby with one arm and a shopping bag in the other.

She kisses her babe.

* * * * *

Inside the secondhand store, two feminine, wrinkly hands sort used kitchen items.

A distinctive wedding ring graces her left hand.

A very pleasant, elderly woman's voice, with a touch on a sexy side, Mrs. Ruthy Burns, "Now, some of these will be good..."

One hand turns on an electric can opener, it spins effortlessly.

It gets put to one side.

Ruthy's voice, "Some will be fixable..."

A saucepan with a broken handle goes to another location.

Ruthy's voice, "Some will go to the metal recycle bin..."

A broken metal spatula flies into a box labeled, "METAL."

Ruthy's voice, "Others to the plastic."

A cracked water jug lands in a large box labeled, "PLASTIC."

Young woman's voice, "Mrs. Burns, have you been a volunteer here long?"

Ruthy's right hand fondles her wedding ring, "Four years, dear. Three days a week, five hours a day. I started two weeks after my husband died."

Young woman's voice, “Wow, that’s amazing."

Ruthy's voice, “Thank you. It makes me feel good to help others. And so many are in need”

Young woman's voice, " Do you have any children and grand kids?"

Ruthy's hands fidget, "Two sons, two granddaughters."

Young woman's voice, "I bet they are as proud of you as you probably are of them. What do your sons do?"

Ruthy's hands squeeze back and forth, "Spence is an accountant."

A long silence.

Young woman's voice, "And... the other?"

Ruthy's hands clutch tightly to each other, "Taylor helps orphan kids on weekends."

Young woman's voice, "Wow, really? He must be so kind. What does he do during the week?"

Ruthy's hands close into fists.

She pauses long.

Her voice loses its lightness, "Dear, when you have kids, love them deeply... but that doesn't always mean you like everything they do."

* * * * *

Chapter 2 - Taylor

* * * * *

Police cars park outside of a convention center.

Police man a line between the center and protestors.

Reporters with cameras atop news vans.

A pregnant woman holds a sign, "TAYLOR BURNS - MR. KILLER".

Anti-euthanasia protestors march in front of the center.

Signs read, "WE LOVE OUR PARENTS", "GENOCIDE", "ASSISTED SUICIDE IS KILLING SOMEONE".

* * * * *

Inside the convention center a huge banner reads, "FREEDOM TO DIE AS WE WISH, SUPPORT A.C.E. - American Committee for Euthanasia".

A charismatic Taylor Burns, 48, average slight build, stands behind the podium.

A nameplate reads, "Taylor Burns, President of A.C.E. NOW."

Hundreds, rapt, listen to Taylor's rousing speech, "Quality of life is more important than quantity. And children of the elderly must be ready to make decisions if their parents can't make the decision for themselves. It's the least we can do to help our parents die with dignity."

Taylor pauses, playing with the audience's emotions, "It's been our mission! It's been our hope! We have a dream! We're going to change the world for the better!"

Cheers.

Taylor, "Those who attack us, those who claim euthanasia is wrong, they are the ones who are wrong, very wrong!"

Heavy cheers.

Taylor, "One week from today, Washington, D.C., we of A.C.E. NOW will march to the Capitol. And more will join us. One million marchers, right! Let me hear you all!"

The crowd stands, semi-hysterical, chanting, "Freedom to die as we wish. Freedom to die as we wish. Freedom to die."

Taylor waves and steps away from the podium.

His assistant, Ward, 35, a "true believer", clasps Taylor's hand, "Taylor, that was superb!"

Taylor keeps his eyes on the crowd as he continues to wave to cheers.

Out of the side of his mouth, "Thanks, Ward. Amber with the protesters?"

Ward, "Can I lie?"

Taylor bites his bottom lip as he glances at Ward.

Ward, "We'll just pretend she isn't your daughter."

Taylor frowns, then recollects himself and turns back, smiling, to the crowd.

* * * * *

Chapter 3 - Amber

* * * * *

Outside the convention center, Amber Walden, 25, Taylor's estranged daughter, and seven months pregnant, carries the sign, "TAYLOR BURNS - MR. KILLER".

A very tall and big woman, Liz, 40, walks next to Amber.

The protestors chant, "Say no to killing, say no to killing, say no to killing."

A reporter approaches Amber, "Mrs. Walden, what's it like having a father who's president of the A.C.E. euthanasia group? Do you really think he's a killer?"

Amber, "We must never lose sight of the fact that all people, regardless of age or illness, can contribute to others in some way."

Reporter, "It must be very hard for you to have such a father. How do you--"

Amber, "Christopher Reeve's life teaches us about the vast potential of what some people think are useless people."

Reporter, "But your father claims that his concern is to alleviate peoples' intense physical suffering."

Amber, "There are ways to alleviate physical suffering with palliative care without killing. Wouldn't it be also be more compassionate to use this modern knowledge, so they know they are loved. And we could also try to teach our loved ones methods how to let go of their mental suffering, so they can deal better with their physical suffering?"

Reporter, "But Mrs. Walden--"

Amber, "Thank you for your interest."

Liz gives Amber a thumbs up.

Amber smiles curtly and turns away.

Her left hand strokes her belly protectively.

* * * * *

Chapter 4 - FOR MOM & DAD

* * * * *

Ruthy strolls in the playground gardens of Sunrise Village, a wealthy retirement village.

Forty lush acres, ten pristine apartment blocks, surrounded by well manicured gardens, swimming pool and more.

Graced by her distinctive wedding ring, Ruthy's left hand reaches into grass next to a sidewalk.

She pulls out a quarter, cleans it off as she stands.

She smiles, hiding her 75 years. In fine health and shape, she could pass for 50. She wears expensive clothes, perfectly styled hair. A sparkling butterfly brooch adorns her blouse.

A twinkle in her eyes refutes a stuffy upper class appearance.

The playground area separates a car park from apartment buildings.

Ruthy spots another elderly woman pushing a baby carriage, walking toward her on the path with an eight-year-old boy.

Ruthy giggles and places the quarter right in the middle of the sidewalk.

She strolls to a favorite bench not far away.

An inscription on the bench reads, FOR MOM & DAD.

She strokes the bench, sits and watches.

The little boy spots the quarter and races for it, "Hey, Grandma, look! I'm a lucky boy!"

Elderly woman, "So you are, Billy."

She pushes the carriage past Ruthy as the boy hops in front.

With a knowing grin, she looks back at Ruthy, "Ruthy, I saw you."

Ruthy smiles.

* * * * *

Chapter 5 - Trusty

* * * * *

A man pushes a baby carriage past a Vet's office.

Taylor drives up, gets out of his SUV wagon, walks to the back door.

Trusty, a German Shepherd, pushes his face against the glass as his tail wags happily.

Taylor pauses, shakes his head.

He opens the back door, helps the dog out.

Advanced arthritis affects the dog's back joints.

* * * * *

Inside the office, a stone-faced Taylor's eyes stay glued to Trusty as an exasperated Vet pets it, and a nervous assistant observes.

Vet, "He's not that bad yet."

Taylor, "Doctor, it is bad and what's coming will be even worse. He can die now with dignity instead of living a prolonged life as a cripple."

Vet, "There are drugs to relieve the discomfort."

Taylor, "There's no need to protract illness. It's an unnecessary burden on those who must care for the ill."

Vet, "Mr. Burns--"

Taylor, "Doctor, should I go elsewhere?"

Vet, "No, I... I'll take care of him."

Taylor, "Thank you, send the bill as normal."

Taylor drops his eyes, walks out.

The dog whines, watching Taylor leave.

The doctor strokes the dog, "Call Jan.-- Not to worry, Trusty, you have a better home waiting for whatever time you have left."

* * * * *

Chapter 6 - The Golden Years

* * * * *

Kids roll and play with their dog on a front yard, in a suburban neighborhood.

Amber drives past, turns into a large driveway bordered by flowers and bushes, highlighted with a huge sign which reads, "SUNRISE VILLAGE, Home of Discriminating Retirees."

She stops at a security gate.

Guard Betty, 35, hefty, greets her, "Hey Amber, how y'all doing?"

Amber pats her tummy, "We are doing just fine, Betty."

They laugh.

Betty, "Still got my money on it being a girl. Isabella's a nice name, y'know. How about Abigail?"

Amber grins, drives off.

Betty, "Enid?"

Amber winds around a flowering tree-lined bend.

She enters the "Campus".

She passes by a middle aged woman pushing her wheelchair-bound elderly father along the sidewalk.

She parks in front of the playground area.

* * * * *

A model car display sits near the entrance of the Sunrise Village reception.

Couches on the left, card tables on the right.

Postal boxes further on the left.

A reception counter further on the right.

Hallways go off on both sides to residential apartments.

Ever smiling Eve, 55, sits behind the reception counter.

Many elderly stroll or shuffle to and fro.

Above Eve, a large painting of Mr. Colt, 65, distinguished in business attire.

Below the painting reads, "Sunrise Village founder Mr. Harry Colt."

Mr. Colt holds his air of authority with pride as he stands near Eve.

She offers him a bowl of candies.

He takes one, "I'll be in the office til three today."

Eve, "Yes, Mr. Colt."

He strides away.

Ruthy bounces in from a hallway, "Home! Home, sweet home. Eve, I think you need a hug."

Eve swings around her desk.

Eve, "The Sunrise Hugger reads my mind again! Mrs. Burns, you're the sun in Sunrise."

They hug.

Ruthy, "Mail in yet?"

Eve, "Sure is. And here you go."

Eve tosses Ruthy a candy, which Ruthy catches and laughs.

She goes to her mailbox, pulls out a handful of mail.

She takes one junk letter and backhands it into a waste basket.

Amber's voice, "Nice shot, Nana."

Ruthy, "Why my little sweetheart."

Ruthy turns to be greeted by her granddaughter, Amber.

Ruthy pats Amber's tummy, "Okay, ultrasound this morning, right? Come on, tell me."

Amber, "A boy."

Ruthy, "Bravo, how about a future president, general, admiral--"

Amber, "No thanks, presidents and soldiers can get killed young."

Ruthy, "Says the wife of a policeman."

Amber, "Touché."

* * * * *

Ruthy and Amber stroll down a hallway, arm in arm, away from the Reception Area.

Ruthy, "Does Jake know yet?"

Amber, "He wanted a girl."

Ruthy, "Smart hubby you have."

They pass by forty feet of windows, showing a Gym Room.

A dozen elderly walk treadmills, lift weights, pedal bicycles, row.

A few wave to Ruthy and Amber who wave back.

Ruthy, "Aren't they sweet. I did thirty minutes on the treadmill today."

Amber, "Nana, you're going to make a hundred with ease."

Ruthy, "A hundred? Ha, but seventy-five tomorrow, yes. We're going to have a wonderful party."

They enter the Residential Hallway where everyone has a ledge, three foot long, a foot wide, next to their doors.

Decorations vary.

July 4th is the main theme this month.

Amber, "Nana, I was checking all your legal papers you gave me and couldn't find your Health Care Proxy with my name as agent."

Ruthy, "Didn't I give you one last year with the general Power of Attorney?"

Amber, "That one I have, but all I have for your medical is a copy of the one you gave your second son nine years ago."

Ruthy's eyes widen, "We'll have to make a new one with your name as soon as possible."

Amber, "Jake will get the forms."

Hunched over a walker, Janet, 85, shuffles towards them.

Ruthy, "Hi Janet, nice day."

Janet stops, raises her head as Ruthy gives her a hug, "Ruthy, they say these are the Golden Years."

Ruthy, "Yes."

Janet, "Well, let me tell you something. The Golden Years suck."

Ruthy laughs.

Amber's stunned.

Janet grunts, then shuffles by.

Ruthy, "She's such a dear."

Ruthy watches Janet.

She dabs a tear with her scarf, "Confused, but she's so sweet."

Ruthy and Amber arrive at Ruthy's apartment.

* * * * *

Chapter 7 - The Books

* * * * *

They enter a foyer area, which branches to the left - a kitchen, to the right - three bedrooms, and straight ahead - the dining/living room.

Multi-colored, glass butterflies adorn the dining table chandelier.

Four books rest on the dining table.

"DEADLY COMPASSION" and "FORCED EXIT" sit on top.

Ruthy, "I'll put the kettle on."

Ruthy goes into the kitchen as Amber tidies a bit.

She grabs a vase with wilted flowers, "Nana, these flowers were dead last week, why do you insist on keeping them?"

Ruthy pokes her head out of the kitchen, "Dear, when you watch something beautiful die naturally, you can learn a great deal about how to truly live."

Amber, "You told me that before and I still don't get it. They're ugly and finished."

Ruthy turns back to the kitchen, "There's still some petals to fall."

Amber, "Right, wait til fall, you have two more months."

Amber dusts around many photos above a piano.

Most show Ruthy and her extended family.

Amber pauses at one, which shows Ruthy, her deceased husband, sons Taylor and Spence, 50.

Spence is much bigger than Taylor, height and width.

Another shows Taylor with his father, crippled in a wheelchair.

Taylor's expression portrays his grief.

Amber holds it next to a happy photo of Ruthy and her husband, "This photo of Grandpa and your second son is so depressing. Can I put it away in the drawers?"

Ruthy's voice, "Sweetheart, why don't you tidy the butterflies?"

Amber frowns, picks up a photo of Taylor, her mom, Barbara, 47, herself and her husband Jake, 28, from happier times.

The St. Louis Arch rises behind them.

Scribbled along the bottom, TO MOM & NANA, LOVE, TAYLOR, BARBARA, AMBER & JAKE.

She puts her thumb over Taylor's face.

Ruthy's voice, "Have you seen your father recently?"

Amber doesn't reply.

Ruthy's voice, "Talk to him on the phone lately?"

Amber bites her bottom lip.

Ruthy's voice, "Did you protest against him in Richmond on the weekend?"

Ruthy brings out cups and cake, "How's your mom? Is St. Louis treating her okay?"

Amber loses it, "My father! My father is an ass!"

Ruthy waits.

Amber, "He just walks out. Three years now and he won't even see her. She's got breast cancer, damn it! And your son shits on her."

Amber crashes in a chair.

Ruthy, "You know why."

Amber, "I'll protest him until I die."

Ruthy, "We've gone through this before."

Amber, "How can you still love him?"

Ruthy, "He couldn't handle your grandfather's death."

Amber, "He'd even try to kill you if you weren't so healthy."

Ruthy, "Amber, have you ever thought about how scared a caterpillar would be if it fell out of a tree?"

Amber, "And... you want me to talk to the ass."

Ruthy, "But what would a butterfly think?"

Amber, "Nana--"

Ruthy, "I don't agree with what he does and it even frightens me if I think too much about it, which I don't do. But he is my son and he'll stay here a couple of days. Can you two make a truce for my birthday?"

Amber fiddles with the four books, "You really think he'll read these?"

Ruthy, "Honestly?"

Amber, "Yeah."

Ruthy stares at the books, shakes her head, no.

* * * * *

Chapter 8 - Birthday Present

* * * * *

GIFT AND CANDIES STORE.

A cold, husky clerk, 40, gazes at a big box of special chocolate hearts with cherries on the cashier counter of a candies shop, "Not cheap..."

He picks it up, fondles it, "...eh?"

Taylor's voice, "A birthday present for my mother."

Clerk, "Well, ain't you a nice son."

The Clerk's stone eyes look up and penetrate Taylor.

The Clerk grins, "Know you from somewhere?"

Taylor, "Could you just ring it up?"

Clerk, "Movie star? Yankee pitcher?"

Taylor, "Look, I'm running late."

The Clerk doesn't do anything.

Taylor slams a twenty on the counter, grabs the candies, "Okay, here's twenty, keep the change."

He hurries to the door.

Clerk's voice, "Good bye, Mr. Killer."

Taylor pauses.

Clerk's voice, "Stay away from my mother."

Taylor exits the store, strides past a playground with a mother swinging her toddler.

* * * * *

Chapter 9 - The Swing song

* * * * *

Ruthy sings and line dances, leading thirteen elderly women, Amber and one man, Jefferson, 94, the "sage" of Sunrise Village, "Here we go up in the swings so high / just you and I / we touch the sky..."

Ruthy swings and swirls with twice the agility of any others, "Like a butterfly / we swing and we sway and we seem to fly / you and I."

They end as everyone stops and hugs each other.

Ruthy, "Next week, same place, same time."

Jefferson, "Wonderful, Ruthy. You know, if I was younger--"

Ruthy, "Jefferson, I'd melt your pacemaker."

Ruthy and Amber stroll out into the hallway.

Amber, "You sang me that Swing song when I was little."

Ruthy, "Like it?"

Amber pats her tummy, "Already singing it to Jake, Jr."

They hug.

Amber, "See you tomorrow."

Amber dashes off.

Jefferson and another woman approach Ruthy.

Jefferson, "Join us for dinner?"

Ruthy hesitates, her eyes lose focus, she gazes blankly down the hall.

Jefferson and the woman exchange worried looks.

Jefferson, "Ruthy, you okay?"

Ruthy returns to her chirpy self, laughs self-consciously, "Oh, yes, of course."

Jefferson, "Bit of a senior moment?"

Ruthy looks away, "Nothing to worry about."

She takes Jefferson's arm and the three walk down the hall.

Ruthy, "Is it crabs tonight?"

* * * * *

Chapter 10 - A big heart

* * * * *

Taylor drives into Sunrise Village, pulls into the front parking lot.

His cell phone rings.

Taylor, "Yes, Ward."

Ward's voice, "I booked your ticket to New York."

Taylor, "Thanks, I wouldn't miss it for anything."

Ward's voice, "The stadium's filling up. We've topped thirty thousand."

Taylor, "Great, Ward, this is big. We get a good crowd there, it's more power for our march here. And I just know DC is going to change how people think. See you in two days."

Taylor hops out, grabs a small suitcase and a bag with the box of chocolates.

A young couple with a 9-year-old girl, Janie, pass Taylor's car.

Janie dashes to Taylor, "Will you help sponsor my swim-a-thon, Sir?"

Dad's eyes go wide.

Mother appears frightened.

Dad, "Janie, best not to ask strangers."

He pulls his daughter back.

Janie, "But, Daddy--"

Taylor, "Quite okay, what are you raising money for?"

Janie, "We're going to help poor kids in the city. Want to help?"

Taylor, "I sure do."

Taylor takes out a fifty dollar bill.

Janie, "Oh my gosh, I don't have any change, Sir."

Taylor, "I don't want any."

She looks at Taylor in awe.

Taylor, "And no need to give me a receipt. Your parents are here, so I trust you."

Janie, "You're super, Sir. Thank you so much."

Dad, "Uh, thanks."

Taylor smiles, walks off.

Dad, "Holy Moses, you know who that was?"

Mother, "Yes."

Janie, "Who, Mommy?"

Mother, "Janie, don't always believe everything the media reports. That man's got a big heart."

* * * * *

Chapter 11 - Alert Security

* * * * *

Taylor strides to the entrance.

Jefferson ambles from the other direction.

They meet coolly.

Jefferson, "Must be eight months or more."

Taylor, "I've been busy."

Jefferson, "Very original excuse."

Jefferson walks past, "One day when you have a question... if I'm still alive."

Taylor scoffs, heads to the doors.

The doors open automatically.

A bent over, old woman shuffles out, using a cane.

Taylor hesitates, watches the old woman.

He looks away.

A shuttle bus pulls in.

He looks back.

The old woman struggles to get up the steps.

Taylor turns to the building.

* * * * *

Eve talks on the phone in the reception.

As an elderly couple pass her, she offers them candies.

Taylor walks in, signs the visitors' book.

She glances at his name, frowns, "You'll find Mrs. Burns in Room C, it's play reading time."

Taylor, "Thanks."

He heads to the elevator.

Eve dashes to Mr. Colt's office, "Mr. Colt, Sir."

Mr. Colt, "Yes."

Eve, "Mrs. Burns' son, Taylor, has just arrived."

Mr. Colt nods, "Okay, alert Security, show his photo to any new officers. But please remind everyone he's never done anything wrong, nor brought his work here. So he's as welcome as any other family of our residents."

Eve, "Yes, Mr. Colt."

Mr. Colt looks out his window, gray clouds form.

* * * * *

Chapter 12 - The Chocolates

* * * * *

Taylor strides down the hall, stops in front of glass windows to Room C meeting room.

Five elderly read from scripts.

Ruthy spots Taylor, smiles wide, excuses herself and bounces out.

They embrace.

Taylor, "Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday, dear lovely Mom, happy birthday to you."

He hands her the bag.

Ruthy, "Can I guess?"

Taylor, "Nothing but the best for the best."

Ruthy, "Ummm, delicious-- come."

Arm in arm.

* * * * *

Ruthy and Taylor enter her apartment.

Ruthy turns to the kitchen.

Ruthy, "Remember where the guest room is?"

Taylor heads to the bedrooms, "Did you rearrange any walls?"

Ruthy opens the chocolates, savors one.

Taylor comes back, heads to the fridge, "Go easy on those. How's your cholesterol lately?"

Ruthy, "Wouldn't know."

Taylor, "Three hundred last time, right?"

He checks out the food.

Grabs a Pepperoni and whole milk, "Mom! You're going to kill yourself with this stuff."

Ruthy, "We don't discuss killing, remember?"

He pulls out a bottle of wine, grabs glasses, "Sorry, here's to your birthday. May you have many more."

They toast.

She offers him the chocolates.

Taylor stares at them, shakes his head.

He checks the cupboards, rustles the snacks.

Ruthy, "Talked to Barbara lately?"

Taylor, "We don't discuss marriage, remember?"

They both pause, look at each other, half smile.

Ruthy touches his cheek gently, "She's not coming. But Amber and Jake are."

Taylor, "You need more snacks. I'll go to the store."

Ruthy, "Can you get some beer for Spence?"

Taylor, "He should quit beer and go on a diet."

Taylor leaves.

Ruthy sighs, takes another chocolate.

* * * * *

Chapter 13 - Spence & family

* * * * *

Spence Burns, 50, Taylor's pudgy and much bigger older brother, pops a candy in his mouth as he drives his Lincoln Continental.

He blasts the horn at kids playing in a quiet suburban street.

The kids speed out of his way.

Spence, "Never play in the street, got that, Clara?"

Clara, 6, plays with dolls in the back seat, "Yes, Daddy."

Next to her sits hefty yet bored Wayne, 17, Spence's stepson, eyes shut, headphones on.

Spence turns to his wife, Joelle, 38, striking.

Her deep red fingernails match her lips which she purses at herself in a makeup mirror.

Spence, "You look gorgeous, Joelle, we have two rooms at the motel, right?"

Joelle, "Spence, honey, if your mom would only give you some of your future inheritance, we could buy a motel."

Joelle turns to Spence, grins.

Clara pretends with her dolls, two females, one obviously older than the other, and one male.

She holds the young female as if it's talking.

Clara, "Daddy's always right. Yes. I love Daddy. If Mommy wasn't married to Daddy, I would marry Daddy."

Joelle, "Clara, baby, you can't marry your father."

Clara, "Right, Mommy's still married to Daddy."

Clara puts down the older female doll and makes the young female kiss the male.

* * * * *

Ruthy's patio door opens.

Amber sneaks in, carrying a large, framed photo composition of many varied butterflies, "Surprise! Happy Birthday, Nana! Look what I got you."

Ruthy bounces out of the kitchen, spots the photo and melts, "Amber..."

They hug.

Amber, "I know a perfect spot."

She holds the photo up on the wall in the foyer, covering a garden painting.

Ruthy, "Sweetie, you win cherry chocolates for this."

Amber's face changes drastically to a stern coldness as Ruthy reaches in the kitchen for Taylor's chocolates.

Ruthy grabs them, turns back to Amber.

Ruthy notices Amber's face, gives a "What's up?" expression.

Amber, "Every birthday, every anniversary, Valentine's Day and Christmas."

Ruthy, "Amber, I have a new theory."

Amber, "You've tried them all."

Ruthy, "What if he's hiding behind his work, trying to protect himself from more grief?"

Amber puts down the photo, takes off the painting and hangs the photo, "No thanks."

Ruthy, "Will you ever forgive him for not being the man you thought he was?"

Amber chews on her lip.

Ruthy, "It's my fault."

Amber, "Nana, no, don't say that."

Ruthy, "I didn't teach him how to handle life difficulties."

Ruthy sighs, "Amber, I'm going to keep trying, until I die."

Ruthy hugs Amber, "Now cheer up, it's my birthday, time for joy."

Knocks on the door.

It swings open to reveal Spence, Joelle, Wayne and Clara.

Clara holds Spence's hand.

Spence, "Hey, Happy Birthday, Mom."

Spence warmly hugs Ruthy.

He hands her a big present.

Joelle and Wayne give brief hugs.

Clara races to hug Amber.

Ruthy, "Lovely to see you all."

Amber, "Hi, everyone."

Joelle and Wayne, "Happy birthday, Ruthy."

Joelle and Wayne ignore Amber.

Wayne grabs a couple of chocolates, heads to the couch, puts on his headphones.

Ruthy opens the gift, a pillow with butterflies on it.

Ruthy, "It's beautiful, thank you so much."

Clara, "Amber, Amber, you're so big. Does he kick? Can I feel him?"

Spence, "Hey, Amber, how's it going?"

Amber, "Give Nana a kiss first."

Clara, "Right, sorry Nana, Happy Birthday."

Ruthy, "My, how you've grown."

Joelle, "Yes, talking about growing, we just couldn't find anything to fit Clara for the party tonight. Ruthy, do you think--"

Ruthy, "My pleasure."

Ruthy pulls out a gold credit card.

Amber's face hardens.

Joelle, "And maybe something for myself so we match? And, of course, Wayne."

Ruthy, "Please get Clara a new dress and get yourselves something, too."

Spence, "Mom, uh--"

Ruthy, "Don't worry, Spence, I'm sure you need a new shirt. My birthday will be happier if I know you all have something special."

Joelle grabs a chocolate, "Thank you, Ruthy. We haven't checked into the motel yet, so we must get going. Come on, Clara."

Clara, "Can I stay with Amber?"

Joelle, "It's your dress we need to buy, so come along now.-- Wayne, honey."

Clara looks to Spence who nods reluctantly, gives Ruthy a hug.

Spence, "See you at the party."

They leave.

Ruthy looks at her chocolates.

She dabs a tissue to her eyes.

Amber boils, "Nana!"

Ruthy, "Amber, you know Joelle's bipolar."

Amber, "Bipolar or not, she's just using you."

Ruthy, "You're going to be a mother soon."

Amber, "Never, never will I spoil my kids."

Amber collapses in a chair.

Ruthy, "Amber, being a parent isn't as black and white as you think."

* * * * *

Taylor leaves his car, arms full of groceries, heads to Ruthy's apartment building.

Spence and family exit the building.

They meet.

Taylor and Spence are friendly.

Wayne's indifferent.

Clara holds Spence's hand and moves behind Spence.

Joelle quickly preens herself.

Spence, "Hey, brother."

Taylor, "What's up?"

Spence, "Motel and a bit of shopping."

Joelle gives bag laden Taylor an unusual nice hug.

She whispers in his ear, "This time, if you want."

And a provocative smile, unseen to Spence, yet noticed by Wayne, who frowns, shakes his head.

Taylor hesitates, "Right, I'll get this to Mom, see you all later."

As they separate, Taylor watches them go.

Clara peers back at him.

He smiles and half waves with one hand on a bag.

She races to their car.

Taylor's eyes move from Clara to Joelle as she reaches the car.

Joelle turns, smiles gaily, waves.

Taylor doesn't respond.

* * * * *

Chapter 14 - It's my birthday

* * * * *

Taylor enters Ruthy's apartment with the groceries.

Amber reads a magazine at the dining room table.

Ruthy's four books for Taylor are stacked in the middle of the table.

Taylor, "Hi."

Amber doesn't look up.

Taylor eyes her tummy, "Pregnant, eh?"

Amber, "What would you care?"

Taylor, "Guess I'll have a grandson or granddaughter."

Amber's silent.

Taylor, "Thought you didn't want kids."

Amber, "He was unplanned."

Amber looks away toward the windows.

Taylor, "Unplanned, want an abortion?"

Amber lashes out, throws the magazine at Taylor.

Amber, "Right, Mr. Killer! Kill the old, kill the unborn! Kill, kill... you're one shit of a father."

Ruthy's voice, "Now, now, it's my birthday."

Ruthy stands in the foyer.

* * * * *

Chapter 15 - Ruthy's happy party

* * * * *

Music and balloons light up the Sunrise Village party room.

One hundred guests with smiles and laughter everywhere.

Jefferson, Eve, Mr. Colt and a dozen friends surround Ruthy.

Close by, Amber talks with her friend Liz.

Taylor and Spence chat near the entrance while Spence downs cakes and cookies.

Amber's husband, Jake, 28, solid, short back and sides, holding himself official and erect, like a top detective, enters.

Spence, "Hey Jake, good to see you."

Jake warmly shakes hands with Spence, "Yeah, how you all doing?"

Taylor, "Hi, Jake."

Jake ignores Taylor, "Better say Happy Birthday to Nana. We'll talk later, Spence."

Jake heads to Ruthy.

Amber greets him first.

Jake, "Hi honey, I have the Health Proxy form."

Amber, "Great, what a relief!"

Clara races up to Jake for a big hug.

Spence and Taylor watch.

Spence, "You're lucky you still have a dog."

Taylor's eyes drop.

Taylor, "One day they might understand my work. It... it's just being compassionate to everyone to allow each of us to die when we want."

Spence, "Well, don't worry, brother. If my heart gets any worse, I might be your next patient."

Taylor, "Yeah?"

Spence, "I got this pill, that pill. Can't keep up with them all."

Taylor, "So why are you eating that crap?"

Joelle approaches, "Taylor, it's been years since we've had a dance."

Taylor glances away, spots Ruthy, "I was thinking the same about Mom. I better give her a spin."

He leaves.

Joelle frowns.

Spence, "I'm up, Joelle, let's hit the floor."

Joelle grins, "Sure, honey."

Taylor bumps into Jefferson.

Jefferson, "Got a question yet?"

Taylor, "No."

Jefferson, "You should."

Taylor, "Huh?"

Jefferson, "How are you going to get answers?"

Jefferson ambles off.

Taylor shakes his head, approaches Ruthy who grabs a cake from a passing tray, as she jokes with others.

Ruthy, "So when I was pregnant with Spence, I met a woman who had six kids. Six kids, wow! So I asked, "How did you manage raising six kids?" She said, "Well, dear, the books tell you this way to raise children and the doctors tell you that way, but really, we all just muddle along the best we can."

They laugh.

Taylor, "So you practiced on Spence before tackling me?"

Ruthy, "Good for you I did. I jabbed him with a diaper pin in a very wrong place."

Taylor, "I'm glad you practiced. Bless me with a dance? It's been eons since I held such a lovely woman in my arms."

Ruthy, "Taylor Burns, as romantic as your father."

They move off and join a slow dance.

Ruthy, "But you're a klutz with your daughter."

Taylor, "Miss the news? I was disowned two years ago. Is that part of the muddling along?"

They stop.

Ruthy puts her hand on Taylor's cheek, "Taylor, when you're a parent, it's for life..."

Ruthy hesitates, her lips tremble, "for life..."

Taylor, "Mom, you okay?"

Her whole body shakes, her eyes wide.

Taylor, "Mom!"

She tries to speak.

Taylor, "Mom!"

Others rush over.

Ruthy spins around, her eyes shut, "...for life."

She faints.

People scream.

Taylor hugs her, "Pull the cord! Pull the cord!"

Hands reach for a wall emergency cord.

* * * * *

In the Security room, bells ring, and lights blink on wall diagrams of buildings and floors.

Betty and two other security officers grab medical gear and race out.

* * * * *

Chapter 16 - Lovely

* * * * *

Sirens blaring, an ambulance turns into a Hopital Emergency Entrance.

* * * * *

Taylor paces in a hospital room.

Spence, Amber and Jake sit and stand around Ruthy, asleep in bed.

A nurse enters, "The doctor's available now."

They leave.

Amber kisses Ruthy before she goes out.

* * * * *

They greet the doctor in the hallway.

Doctor, "I'm sorry, it's a major stroke. It appears her right side is partially paralyzed and there may be some cognitive problems."

Amber, "What are the chances of recovery?"

Doctor, "Hard to say right now. We'll do more tests. I wish I had better news."

Spence, "Thank you, Doctor."

The doctor leaves.

Taylor and Spence exchange looks, as does Amber with Jake.

Taylor glances to Amber and Jake, back to Spence.

He speaks to everyone.

Taylor, "So, what do we think?"

Amber, "Excuse me?"

Taylor, "Well, maybe we should start discussing alternatives for Mom."

Amber, "Did you forget Nana gave me the Power of Attorney and wanted me to make all health decisions if she was unable?"

Amber walks back into Ruthy's room.

Jake, "Taylor."

Taylor turns to Jake.

Jake, "Don't try any of your games."

Jake follows Amber.

Taylor, "Lovely."

Spence, "I'm not too sure us sons can be screwed that easy. The will's still just you and I, right?"

Taylor stares at the door to Ruthy's room.

* * * * *

Chapter 17 - Nice try

* * * * *

Ruthy sits on an examination bed, gazing out the window.

Amber, Taylor and Spence watch Ruthy and the doctor.

Doctor, "Mrs. Burns, do you know what day it is?"

Ruthy looks at the doctor.

She lacks any expression.

Doctor, "Do you know how old you are?"

Ruthy, "You're so handsome."

Doctor, "Thank you, and you're very pretty. Do you know who they are?"

He points to Amber, Taylor and Spence.

Ruthy doesn't look at them.

Doctor, "Mrs. Burns, let's do some walking."

He helps Ruthy off the bed.

Ruthy spots a small bit of paper on the floor.

She reaches down, picks it up and puts it in her mouth.

The doctor grabs it, "No, no, Mrs. Burns, don't eat it."

Ruthy smiles, "You're so handsome."

He walks her across the room.

She limps with her right leg and her right arm hangs.

Doctor, "I'd like to test her cognitive ability another way. Mrs. Walden, please walk with her."

Amber changes places with the doctor.

As she walks Ruthy across the room, Ruthy holds close to Amber and puts her head on Amber's shoulder.

Doctor, "Fine, now, Mr. Burns, either of you."

Spence walks Ruthy, but Ruthy hesitates and keeps her head upright.

Doctor, "Next, Mr. Burns."

Taylor goes to replace Spence.

Ruthy's eyes widen, she reaches with her left arm to Amber.

Her head shakes.

Amber races over and hugs her.

Taylor bites his lip, drops his head, "Excuse me."

He leaves.

* * * * *

Taylor exits into the foyer, clearly shaken.

The doctor follows, "Mr. Burns."

Taylor turns, shakes his head.

Doctor, "No, please, you shouldn't take this personally. Your mother's had a stroke, she--"

Taylor, "Doctor... nice try."

Taylor walks off.

* * * * *

Chapter 18 - Amber takes charge

* * * * *

Taylor, Spence and Joelle eat lunch in the hospital cafe.

Joelle boils.

Taylor's down, plays with his coffee.

Joelle, "You're not going to let her push you around, are you?"

Spence, "Joelle, we--"

Joelle, "Come on, now, you're the sons."

Spence, "Maybe a lawyer."

Taylor spills his coffee on his legs, "Shit!"

He jumps up, "It's my day."

Amber's voice, "So feel sorry for yourself."

Their eyes turn to Amber who stands with Jake.

Amber, "It'd be nicer if you thought about your mother more than your pants."

Taylor, "Amber, look, it's pretty clear we're not going to get very far. Though it's nice you remember Spence and I are her sons."

Amber, "Sons who rarely visit, while I've seen her every few days for years."

Joelle, "So that's been your good fortune to live close by, isn't it, dear?"

Amber freezes her eyes on Joelle who grins in return.

Amber, "Nana chose to retire close to me for very good reasons."

Amber turns back to Taylor and Spence, "If you'd like to know what I've decided..."

* * * * *

Amber, Taylor, Spence and Joelle sit at the dining table, in Ruthy's apartment.

A half-empty bourbon bottle rests in front of Spence.

He and Joelle eat Taylor's chocolates.

In the living room area, Ruthy sits in a rocker recliner, stares at Clara who plays with her dolls.

Ruthy's four books rest on a side table next to her.

Her left fingers tap on the books as if she has music in her head.

Outside the bay windows in the playground area, Wayne practices Thai kick-boxing.

Inebriated Spence downs another glass.

Joelle grabs the bottle, "Honey, please stop for now. You know the doctor doesn't want you to drink."

Spence, "Huh?"

Amber checks her watch, looks to the door.

Taylor, "I do think hiring a fully qualified nurse is a bit much when a nurses' aide could easily do the job."

Amber, "Worried about using up your inheritance?"

Taylor, "Amber, please."

Joelle, "It is something to consider, when she's just going to die."

Amber flashes at Joelle who shrugs.

Knocks.

Amber dashes to the door, greets Maria, 55, Hispanic.

Amber, "Hi, Maria, come on in."

Spence, "Hey, what you know, she uh, she--"

Taylor, "Spence!"

Spence, "Yeah, well, I gotta pee."

Spence staggers up and heads to the bathroom.

Amber, "I'm sorry, Maria, he's had a bit too much."

Maria, "It's not a problem. I know you all must be feeling very down."

Taylor, "I'm Taylor, that was Spence, we're Mrs. Burns' sons. This is Joelle, Spence's wife. The girl and boy outside are his kids."

Joelle, "The girl only."

Taylor, "Sorry, Joelle's kids, Spence's stepson."

Maria, "Glad to meet you all."

Maria heads to Ruthy, "And this must be Mrs. Burns. Hi Mrs. Burns, I'm Maria, your nurse."

Ruthy's eyes rise, she nods her head and reaches out with her left hand.

Maria grabs it and gives it a kiss.

Ruthy, "You're so pretty."

Maria, "Sweet talk me some more, you're a winner."

Ruthy returns her gaze to Clara, and her tapping fingers resume.

Amber, "Maria, are you sure you can do 24 hours?"

Taylor, "Wait a minute, just one nurse?"

Joelle, "Amber's in charge, remember?"

Joelle grins and heads to the bathroom.

Maria, "Mr. Burns--"

Taylor, "Taylor's fine."

Maria, "Taylor, this is my specialty. I do the first four days straight through. Normally someone in her condition sleeps through the night fine, so I'll sleep, too. Then I make a suggestion for follow up care."

Taylor, "Yeah, well--"

Amber, "I'll show you Nana's bedroom. We put an extra bed in."

Amber and Maria leave.

Taylor sits down on the sofa next to Ruthy.

The side table is between them.

Taylor, "Mom?"

She doesn't respond.

Clara glances up at Taylor.

He half smiles at her.

She looks around, no one else is there.

She gets up and races out the patio door to be with Wayne.

Taylor, "Mom, can you hear me?"

She stops tapping.

Taylor, "Mom, you heard me, right? You know it's Taylor here, right?"

She glances over at the family photos.

Taylor, "What is it, Mom? What are you looking at?"

She shuts her eyes, taps again.

Taylor notices her tapping fingers, shifts the books a little in order to read some titles.

He lays back in the sofa, gazes at the ceiling.

Joelle comes in, "Taylor."

He doesn't answer.

Joelle, "Taylor?"

He looks at her.

She smiles seductively, strokes one breast.

Amber and Maria return, followed by a staggering Spence.

Joelle assumes her normal exterior, strolls to the patio door, "Wayne, Clara, honeys, time to go."

Maria, "I'll give her a good bath."

Wayne and Clara come in.

Joelle, "Help Spence, will you, honey?"

Wayne, "Sure, Mom.-- Spence, you're the shits. Come on."

Spence, "The toilet, I already did my shit."

Wayne, "Yeah, come on."

Clara eyes Spence, "Daddy's no good now. Can I stay with Amber?"

Joelle, "Maybe tomorrow, baby."

Clara and Amber hug.

Clara looks at Taylor.

He smiles.

Taylor, "Bye, Clara."

She races to keep up with Wayne who pulls Spence out the main door.

Maria helps Ruthy up.

Joelle, "Well, better get Spence to bed. Thanks so very much, Maria. I'm so sure Ruthy will just love having you here. See you all tomorrow."

They leave.

Maria looks at Amber who shrugs her shoulders.

Maria leads Ruthy to the bathroom.

As they pass Amber's butterfly photo, Ruthy pauses and strokes the photo.

Taylor, "You staying tonight?"

Amber, "Yes."

Taylor, "I might go for a run."

* * * * *

Chapter 19 - Fear

* * * * *

Taylor runs past a pond and pavilion, up a grass slope, into the parking lot, which connects to the playground area.

He stops, spots the woman with her wheelchair-bound, elderly father.

She tucks a blanket around her father's legs.

He touches her gently.

She kisses his forehead, pushes him along the walk.

Taylor watches them pass by.

Across the playground, he sees Ruthy's apartment patio.

Amber sits, reading.

Ruthy rests next to her, staring.

Amber holds Ruthy's hand.

Mr. Colt's voice, "Hello, Mr. Burns."

Taylor turns to see Mr. Colt.

Taylor, "Hi, uh, Mr. Colt, right?"

Mr. Colt, "Yes, it's been a while since we last talked. How's your mother?"

Taylor, "Not too good."

Mr. Colt, "So I understand."

Mr. Colt pauses long.

Mr. Colt, "Mr. Burns, as you are probably aware, there are a number of residents here who don't feel comfortable when you visit."

Taylor, "A lot of people are afraid of things they don't understand."

Mr. Colt, "Wise words, Mr. Burns, and a lot of people are afraid of things they do understand."

Taylor and Mr. Colt lock eyes.

Mr. Colt, "I trust you won't do anything that increases their concern."

Taylor, "I'm not here to bother anyone."

Mr. Colt, "Thank you, Mr. Burns."

He turns, strides away.

Taylor looks back over at Ruthy and Amber.

* * * * *

Chapter 20 - Yes... Mommy

* * * * *

In their motel room, Joelle stands at the bathroom door, staring at Spence sprawled in bed, zonked out.

Wayne sits close by.

Through an open joining room door, Clara hugs her three dolls and watches TV.

Wayne, "When are you going to dump this jerk?"

Joelle, "Ruthy's will, honey."

Wayne, "She might stay a vegetable for years."

Joelle, "Taylor kills old people."

Wayne looks long at Joelle, "Assisted suicide."

Joelle, "Then maybe Taylor can do some assisting."

Joelle smiles, unbuttons her blouse buttons, "You would like one of those Harleys, wouldn't you?"

Joelle rubs her breasts against Wayne's head.

Wayne hesitates, "Mom, are you taking your medication?"

Joelle, "I'd rather take you."

Wayne, "I have a girlfriend now."

Joelle, "I don't mind."

Joelle looks in on Clara.

Joelle, "You be good, baby."

* * * * *

Clara watches as Joelle shuts the door.

Clara, "Yes... Mommy."

She takes the older female doll and puts her under a pillow.

She shuts her eyes, hugs the young female and male.

* * * * *

Chapter 21 - That's too bad

* * * * *

Taylor, Amber, Ruthy and Maria finish dinner in the apartment.

Amber and Maria sit next to Ruthy.

Taylor, "Like the meal, Mom?"

Ruthy glances up to Taylor.

He smiles.

She looks back to her food.

Amber, "Nana, want some cake?"

Ruthy's eyes rise at Amber.

Amber, "Yes, okay, here."

She puts cake on Ruthy's plate.

Ruthy stares at it.

Maria forks it and brings it to Ruthy's mouth, "Open wide, Mrs. Burns."

Ruthy opens her mouth, in goes the food.

She chews and cream slides down her cheek.

She tries to wipe herself with her bare left hand.

Amber gives her a tissue.

Amber, "Here, Nana, wipe your cheek."

Ruthy stares at Amber, sticks the tissue in her mouth, and tries to eat it.

Maria grabs the tissue.

Maria, "I think it's time to get ready for bed. Okay, Mrs. Burns?"

Ruthy, "You're so pretty."

Maria, "And you're an angel."

Maria helps Ruthy up, leads her to the bedrooms.

Amber picks up plates, takes them to the kitchen.

Taylor watches her.

She returns, picks up more.

Amber, "I think it's better if you leave the apartment."

She heads to the kitchen, comes back.

Amber, "Did you hear me?"

Taylor, "I'm not sure."

Amber fumes, "I said, I think it's better if you leave the apartment."

Taylor, "Well, that's too bad."

Taylor stands, grabs his dishes, "My mother invited her second son to stay here and her second son, me remember, intends to stay."

He walks into the kitchen.

* * * * *

Chapter 22 - What's wrong?

* * * * *

Taylor stands in the hallway, watches the line dancing group.

Another woman leads the group.

Ruthy stands in the back row, tapping her fingers on her leg.

Dancing next to Ruthy, Amber encourages Ruthy who just stares.

Taylor's phone rings.

He strolls away from the glass window.

Taylor, "Yes, Ward."

Ward's voice, "You at the airport?"

Taylor, "No, look, like I said yesterday, my mom's had a stroke."

Ward's voice, "So what, man, what about your talk tomorrow?"

Taylor turns back toward the Line Dancing Room, "You'll have to--"

Ward's voice, "Taylor! Forget your mom. This is New York. We might fill the stadium. You got to do it."

Taylor, "Ward--"

Ward's voice, "Taylor Burns, listen to me. What's more important, one old dying lady or our work?"

Taylor looks to Ruthy.

She turns her head, eyes straight at him.

Ward's voice, "Taylor, you still there? Taylor, this is the big week, New York, Philadelphia, Washington. Taylor?"

Taylor, "Ward, sorry, you'll have to do this one. I'll see you in Philly. Count on me."

Taylor hangs up.

His phone rings.

He checks the caller's name, looks up at Ruthy who still gazes his way.

He turns his phone off.

* * * * *

In an office room, Ward holds his phone, in semi-shock.

Ward, "Damn, what's wrong with him!"

An assistant, Bob, 30, looks up from his computer.

Bob, "Maybe he’s trying to figure out how to let his mom die."

Ward, "You're not funny, Bob."

* * * * *

Chapter 23 - Shit!

* * * * *

A groggy Spence wakes, sits up on the side of the bed.

Spence hear's the shower, looks around, "Whew, how'd we get here?"

Joelle's voice, "That you Spence honey, you awake?"

Spence, "I, uh--"

Spence winches, grabs his chest.

Joelle's voice, "Spence? Spence!"

Wearing her bathrobe, Joelle opens the bathroom door, spots Spence as he spasms in pain.

Joelle, "Shit!"

Rather than a compassionate expression, Joelle displays anger.

She dashes to her purse, pulls out a pill box, takes one and sticks in under Spence's tongue.

Joelle, "Lay down, lay down, it's okay, Spence, I'm here."

Spence stares wide-eyed at Joelle, he nods his head rapidly.

Joelle helps him lie down.

She strokes his head as he relaxes.

Spence, "S-sorry, honey."

Joelle, "Sorry? Is that all you can say! Sorry, honey, sorry, honey."

She shakes the pill box at him.

Joelle, "Do you know what it means if you die on me before your mother dies? Do you know what that means for our baby, Clara?"

Spence, "Honey, I'm sorry."

Joelle, "Shit!"

She throws the box at him as she stands, paces the room.

Joelle, "What if your heart gives way before Ruthy dies? Taylor will get all her money. Damn it, think of me!"

Joelle sits next to Spence, changes her tone.

Joelle, "Spence, my love, you know how much you mean to me. Think of our baby, Clara. Don't drink any more, okay, my love. You're my one and only. I'll be lost without you. But at least if Ruthy dies first, I'll be able to give Clara the best. She's our baby, think of her."

Spence, "I can't kill my mother."

Joelle, "No, I'd never want you to, but Taylor does it to old people, he believes in it. Your mother's gone, she's just a vegetable waiting for God to take her home. Will you ask Taylor to help, for me and Clara? My love, will you do that, okay?"

Joelle strokes and kisses Spence.

She pulls off her bathrobe and lays down with him.

* * * * *

Chapter 24 - Ruthy's diagnosis

* * * * *

Spence plays with his jacket buttons as he, Amber and Taylor sit with the Doctor.

Doctor, "I had two neurologists check all the tests. One was with Mrs. Burns as the tests were done. I'm afraid they agree on the diagnosis."

Amber cries.

Taylor looks out the window.

Doctor, "You could try a third opinion if you wish."

Taylor, "How accurate do you feel their findings are?"

Doctor, "Mr. Burns, there's always possibility for error."

Taylor turns to the Doctor, "Doctor, how accurate do you feel their findings are?"

Doctor, "You asked me to get the best."

Spence puts his arm around Amber.

Taylor looks back out the window.

* * * * *

Chapter 25 - Do you realize?

* * * * *

Taylor and Spence sit on Ruthy's favorite bench in the playgoround area.

The elderly man in his wheelchair and his daughter walk across the way.

Taylor looks hard at Spence, "Do you realize what you're asking?"

Spence, "Well, uh, Mom's kinda had it, right? The doctor reckons she'll only get worse. There's no hope."

Taylor stays quiet.

Spence, "Taylor, hey, isn't it what you do?"

Taylor, "Assisted suicide is illegal in Virginia."

Spence, "Yes, but there are ways, right?"

Taylor, "There are always ways."

Taylor's eyes go to the elderly man and daughter, "Joelle push you to ask me?"

Spence, "We, uh, discussed it."

Taylor, "Yeah."

Taylor stands, "You discussed it."

He walks away.

Spence, "But Taylor, isn't your name the agent on the Health Care Proxy?"

Taylor stops, turns, "I thought she made a new one with Amber on it."

Spence, "I never got a copy, did you?"

Taylor looks towards Ruthy's apartment, his eyes squint.

* * * * *

Chapter 26 - The Health Care Proxy

* * * * *

Taylor enters Ruthy's bedroom.

A large room bedecked with butterfly paintings and mobiles.

He searches dresser drawers, fumbles through clothes, jewelry, photographs.

He comes across a box of papers.

He finds a Power of Attorney with Amber's name.

He checks more, finds the Health Care Proxy with his name.

He finishes flipping through the rest of the papers.

The wind blows in an open window, rattling some butterfly mobiles.

Taylor looks up at the mobiles.

He nods.

* * * * *

Chapter 27 - It's always a maybe

* * * * *

A butterfly flies past as Taylor exits his car.

Hazy eyes, he walks to the apartment building side entrance.

He stops at the doors, his eyes riveted on the handle.

Jefferson's voice, "Excuse me, Taylor, but are you going to open the door?"

Startled, Taylor turns to see Jefferson, "Sure, uh, Jefferson. Sorry, I--"

Jefferson, "No need to apologize, lad. I've been there before."

Taylor opens the door, lets Jefferson enter.

Jefferson, "You ever been like your Mom?"

Taylor, "No."

Jefferson, "No?"

Jefferson's eyes pierce Taylor.

Taylor, "Well, okay, when I was a baby."

Jefferson, "Answer your question?"

Taylor, "I didn't ask one."

Jefferson, "Then I guess I'm hearing something."

Taylor's stuck.

Jefferson, "Gotta go, see you, maybe."

Jefferson ambles off.

Taylor, "Maybe?"

Jefferson, "Good question. It's always a maybe."

Jefferson turns back to Taylor, smiles, "And at my age the odds get small."

Jefferson disappears down a hallway as Taylor holds the door.

He enters, the door shuts.

* * * * *

Chapter 28 - She shuffles by

* * * * *

Security officer Betty steps out of a guards' room just as Taylor passes by, walking down the hallway with Ruthy.

Betty, "Hey, Mrs. Burns, how are you?"

Ruthy stares as Betty gives an unresponsive Ruthy a warm hug.

Betty, "We still love you, Mrs. Burns. Don't you ever forget it."

Betty turns to Taylor, "Sorry, Mr. Burns."

Taylor, "Yeah, thanks."

Betty bustles off.

Taylor and Ruthy continue walking.

Elderly Janet, with her walker, approaches from the other direction.

They meet.

Taylor, "Mom, do you want to give Janet a hug?"

Ruthy and Janet stare at each other.

Janet, "The Golden Years suck."

Janet puts her hand on Ruthy's shoulder.

She grunts, shuffles by.

* * * * *

Chapter 29 - A different way?

* * * * *

Sunrise Village pond pavilion.

Amber and Spence walk with Ruthy near the water.

Picnic lunch items adorn a table.

Taylor sits, watches Clara, close by on the ground as she plays with her dolls.

Wayne lies on the slope, headphones on, eyes closed.

Taylor, "You have nice dolls, Clara."

Clara glances around, she gets up.

Taylor, "It's okay, you can play here."

She looks Taylor over, "You kill people, don't you?"

Taylor, "No, that's not my work."

Clara, "Daddy and Mommy say you do."

Taylor, "I try to help people die peacefully."

Clara, "Is that a different way to say you kill them?"

Joelle approaches from the parking lot, "Clara, honey, I have another dress for you."

Clara runs off to Joelle.

Taylor watches as Joelle gives him a sexy smile.

* * * * *

Chapter 30 - Stop it!

* * * * *

Ruthy sits in her lounge chair, gazes at the TV and taps her fingers on her four books.

Taylor sits down on the sofa next to her, holds out the favorite chocolates.

He mutes the sound, "Mom? Want a chocolate?"

She glances away from Taylor, toward the family photos.

Taylor, "You did that before, Mom. Are you trying to tell me something?"

He walks to the photos, "Which one, Mom?"

Taylor points at a few, "This one?"

Ruthy doesn't respond.

Taylor, "This?"

Taylor tries to follow Ruthy's eyes.

He touches the one of him and his dad in the wheelchair.

Ruthy looks directly at Taylor.

Her eyes tear.

Taylor, "Shit."

Taylor looks long at the photo.

Back to Ruthy, whose eyes close, tears run down her cheeks.

Holding the photo, he sits next to her, "Mom, do you want to die?"

* * * * *

Amber combs her hair in the hallway bathroom.

She hears Taylor, her whole body shakes.

Taylor's voice, "Mom, did you--"

Amber speeds to the living room, "Stop it!"

Amber pushes Taylor away from Ruthy, "Get away from her!"

Taylor, "Amber, I wasn't going to--"

Amber, "Maria! Maria!"

Taylor, "Amber, please--"

Amber, "Maria!"

Maria charges in from the hallway, "What's wrong?"

Taylor, "Nothing's wrong. Amber misunderstood--"

Amber, "Maria, please help Nana to her room."

Maria takes Ruthy.

Taylor, "Amber."

Amber, "I don't like you! I don't like who you are! You've become evil! Where's my father?"

Taylor, "Amber, please."

Amber, "Stay away from Nana."

Taylor, "She's my mother."

Amber, "Stay away!"

Amber races to Ruthy's bedroom.

She grabs her phone, dials, "Maria, we mustn't leave Nana alone. We mustn't leave her ever with Taylor alone."

Amber frowns at the phone, dials again.

Amber, "Jake, oh thank god you're there. He's going to kill Nana."

* * * * *

Chapter 31 - Why?

* * * * *

Amber fidgets with photos on the piano.

One hand stays on a photo of Ruthy, her and her mother, Barbara.

The other hand busies itself.

Jake enters with a box, she dashes to him.

They hug.

Jake, "Where is he?"

Amber, "Gone for a walk."

Jake, "I have two cameras now to put up in her bedroom. I'll get more tomorrow."

Amber, "I want him out, for good."

Jake, "Legally, we can't stop him being here."

Amber, "Oh, Jake..."

Amber collapses in a chair.

Jake, "I'll talk with him tomorrow."

Amber, "Why? Why did this happen to Nana?"

* * * * *

Chapter 32 - Bastard!

* * * * *

The morning light shines through the curtains as Ruthy and Maria sleep.

Maria stirs, gets up and goes to the bathroom.

Amber comes in, wiping sleep from her eyes, "Hi, Nana."

She kisses Ruthy, "Nana, you awake?"

Ruthy doesn't move.

Amber pulls back, eyes wide, "Nana? Nana!"

She burst into tears, "Oh, Nana, did he kill you?"

Taylor enters, "I heard you scream, what's wrong?"

Amber, "You bastard! You bastard!"

Amber jumps up and charges at Taylor, hitting him in the chest.

Maria races out of the bathroom.

Taylor, "Wait--"

Maria, "What's going on?"

Amber, "He killed Nana!"

Amber crashes down in a chair.

Taylor, "I didn't."

Maria sits next to Ruthy, takes her pulse, "She's not dead."

Maria checks Ruthy's eyes, "She's in a coma."

* * * * *

Chapter 33 - The legal decision

* * * * *

Taylor, Amber, Jake and Spence sit at the dining room table.

Taylor and Amber bite their lips.

Spence plays with salt and pepper shakers.

He spills one, "Sorry, I, uh... sorry."

He wipes it into a napkin, but most of it falls in his lap.

Amber, "She didn't write anything about feeding tubes."

Taylor, "She didn't want machines keeping her alive."

Spence, "Feeding tubes are a type of machine, aren't they?"

Amber, "It's not like a heart or lung machine."

Taylor, "Amber--"

Amber, "I'm not going to starve her to death."

Taylor, "It's not starving to--"

Amber, "Stop it!"

Amber stands, "It's my legal decision. You won't kill her that way."

Amber heads off to Ruthy's bedroom.

Jake, "Taylor, I want you to know there are cameras now in Nana's bedroom. I am hopeful they will not have to be used in court."

Taylor, very sarcastic, "Thanks, Jake, you're a good son-in-law."

Jake, "Your humor's enlightening."

Jake walks away.

Taylor, "Jake."

Jake stops, but doesn't turn around.

Taylor, "Amber said it's her legal decision. I'd like to see the Health Care Proxy with her name as agent."

Jake turns, pauses, "I'll tell Amber."

He leaves.

Spence, "So, what do you think now?"

Taylor, "Nice day."

Spence, "Come on, brother, you know what I mean."

Taylor, "Yes... I know."

Taylor walks to the living room couch, plops down.

He stares at Ruthy's four books, grabs one.

* * * * *

Maria sits with Ruthy lying in bed with feeding tubes attached.

Amber and Jake walk by, and out a patio door.

* * * * *

They stroll ten yards away from the apartment.

Through the living room window, Taylor glances inside one of the books.

Amber, "Tell him it's at home somewhere."

Jake, "Amber, that's lying."

Amber, "Tell him I'll, I'll look at home for it."

Jake gives Amber a warm smile.

She hugs him.

Amber, "Oh Jake, what if he finds out he's got the medical decisions?"

Jake looks over to the apartment just as Taylor glances up from his book and looks toward Jake and Amber, "I have a feeling he already knows."

* * * * *

Chapter 34 - Give 'em something to film

* * * * *

Fifty yards outside of the Sunrise Village entrance gate, a worried Amber talks with Liz.

Five protestors sit in cars with signs ready.

Liz, "Don't you worry."

Amber, "I hate it when the police come."

Liz, "Hon, it's your grandma. We ain't going to let him do it."

Jake walks over, "Liz, hold off until the press gets here."

Liz, "You think I'd miss the fun?"

Jake, "Just making sure. Once the guard calls, it's only fifteen minutes from the police station."

Liz, "Shucks, they take us six, two hours later another six."

Amber, "Liz, you're wonderful."

Amber gives Liz a hug.

She and Jake stride back to Sunrise Village.

A CNN van approaches.

Liz, "Righty-oh gang. Let's give 'em something to film."

* * * * *

Chapter 35 - Butterflies

* * * * *

Maria and Taylor sit on either side of Ruthy.

Maria, "Amber's worried."

Taylor, "She needn't be."

Maria, "She believes you plan to kill your mother."

Taylor, "I have no intention of harming my mother."

Maria, "Can you assure me you aren't going to assist in her death?"

Taylor, "Butterflies are more beautiful than caterpillars. Do you know why my mother loved butterflies?"

Maria glances at all the butterflies.

Taylor, "She felt most people are like caterpillars and never want to fly free."

Maria looks at him questioningly.

Taylor, "She hoped one day to fly free."

* * * * *

Chapter 36 - You and I

* * * * *

Amber sits on Ruthy's favorite bench.

She strokes her tummy and sings.

Amber, "Here we go up in the swings so high / just you and I / we touch the sky / like a butterfly / we swing and we sway and we seem to fly / you and--"

She breaks down and cries.

* * * * *

Chapter 37 - What price?

* * * * *

In the reception lobby, a TV shows protestors outside Sunrise Village.

Signs read "TAYLOR BURNS LEAVE NOW!", "BURNS GO HOME", "SAVE MRS. BURNS".

Police cars drive up.

Police barrel out, approach the protestors.

Announcer's voice, "We've never had such a protest here in Springfield, Virginia, more known for its famous interstate exchange. But today the attention goes to Sunrise Village Retirement Home. There Mrs. Ruthy Burns lies in a coma and her son, Taylor Burns, also known as Mr. Killer, is with her."

Jefferson stands near the elevator, watches the TV.

Taylor approaches as the door opens, they both enter.

Mr. Colt races over as the door shuts, "Mr. Burns, wait!"

* * * * *

Neither Taylor nor Jefferson reopen the door.

Jefferson, "Colt's a bit excited today."

Jefferson presses 2nd FLOOR.

Taylor presses 3rd FLOOR.

Jefferson talks, not toward Taylor, "There seems to be a cycle in many people's lives. The day we're born and for many days, we can't do anything for ourselves. We lie in bed and get hugged. The last day and often for many days, we can't do anything for ourselves. Only lie in bed and get hugged."

The elevator stops, Jefferson steps out, "What price can you put on a good mother?"

Taylor watches Jefferson walk away.

The elevator doors shut.

* * * * *

Chapter 38 - Beautiful day, honey

* * * * *

Taylor shuts one of Ruthy's books, as he and Spence sit on the lounge.

Clara plays on the floor.

Joelle reads Junk mail ads at the dining room table.

Taylor rests the book, picks up a deck of playing cards.

He shuffles them in many ways, "Bridge", "Las Vegas", etc.

Clara watches him with interest.

Taylor cuts the deck, flashes the Ace of Hearts at Clara.

He shuffles more.

Spence, "Well, we can stay two more days, but I gotta get back to work."

Taylor cuts the deck again, shows Clara the Ace of Hearts.

He shuffles.

She stares at the cards.

Taylor, "Yeah, work's important, isn't it? We need some milk. I'll go to the store."

Taylor cuts the deck, the Ace of Hearts.

He smiles at an enthralled Clara, puts the cards down next to her, walks to the door.

Joelle, "Taylor, can you get me some nail polish?"

Taylor looks at her like, "Come on, give me a break".

Joelle smiles, "Some chocolate then? Bittersweet?"

Taylor shakes his head, leaves.

Clara watches Taylor go.

She picks up the cards, cuts them, searches for the Ace of Hearts.

Spence turns on the TV news, which shows a super-charged Ward on stage in New York.

Ward, "Those who oppose us often say we're just doing this to gain our inheritance from our elderly parents."

The audience jeers.

Ward, "Nothing could be further from the truth!"

Cheers.

Spence mutes the sound as Ward expounds his message, "Taylor missed his buddy."

Joelle, "Turn it off, please, honey, I don't want Clara hearing that trash."

Spence, "Sure."

Spence turns off the TV, lies down for a nap.

Joelle's cell phone rings.

She checks the caller's name, glances at Spence.

She goes out the patio door and walks away from the apartment.

She answers the phone in her sexiest voice, "Hi, Babe."

Man's voice, "Miss you like crazy. What's up, Sugar?"

* * * * *

Inside, Clara finds the Ace of Hearts on the top of the deck.

She laughs, puts down the cards, curls up to Spence.

Spence, "Hey, Clara baby."

Clara, "Daddy, when you and Mommy divorce, can I live with you?"

Spence, "Clara, Mommy and I aren't going to divorce."

* * * * *

Joelle, "I'm still in DC. Spence's mom's had a stroke."

Man's voice, "Hot dogs! When's she going to die?"

Joelle, "I'm working on it."

Man's voice, "I'll count the minutes and seconds. Grab that will and off we go."

* * * * *

Clara, "All my friends have divorced parents."

Spence, "Everyone?"

Clara, "Yes."

* * * * *

Joelle, "Spence is pushing Taylor."

Man's voice, "Mr. Killer, himself, top stuff. You be careful, Sugar. I don't want to see you end up in jail for murder."

Joelle, "No way, Babe. You keep your pants warm, I'll be back soon."

* * * * *

Spence, "Where's Mommy now?"

Clara, "Outside."

Spence, "Clara, Mommy might get a bit excited sometimes, but I'll show you, we love each other. Come on."

Spence picks up Clara, walks out on the patio.

Joelle spots them and waves, "Gotta run."

Man's voice, "Love you forever."

Joelle hangs up, races toward Spence, "Beautiful day, honey."

Spence, "Sure is."

The three hug.

* * * * *

Chapter 39 - Talk to my daughter

* * * * *

In the parking lot, Taylor unlocks his car, gets in.

Mr. Colt's voice, "Mr. Burns."

Mr. Colt with two security officers approach, "I believe you are leaving today."

Taylor glances at the officers, turns on the ignition.

Taylor, "My mother's very ill. I believe you should talk to my daughter. It's her friends outside."

Taylor drives off.

* * * * *

Chapter 40 - Cherries

* * * * *

Amber washes dishes.

Taylor enters with groceries, "Spence and family gone?"

Silence.

Taylor, "I noticed some of your friends visiting."

Taylor sorts the food, "The management isn't too keen on the publicity."

He puts cherries on the counter next to Amber, "Cherries still your favorite?"

Amber doesn't look at Taylor, nor grab any cherries.

Taylor, "Maybe we could talk about your legal decisions with my mother."

Amber, "If you left, the management would be fine... and so would I."

Amber walks out.

Taylor eats a cherry.

* * * * *

Chapter 41 - "DEADLY COMPASSION"

* * * * *

Taylor lies in bed, reads, "DEADLY COMPASSION".

His eyes fixate on the words, ""In relating to the sick, the suffering, the incompetent, the disabled and the dying, we must relearn the wisdom that teaches us always to care, never to kill. Although it may sometimes appear to be an act of compassion, killing is never caring."

His phone rings.

He looks at the caller's name, mutes the sound.

* * * * *

Chapter 42 - Missing good friends

* * * * *

Morning.

Taylor sleeps.

Ruthy's four books lie close by.

His phone rings.

He stirs, looks at the caller's name.

It continues ringing.

He stares at it.

He answers it, "Yes, Ward."

Ward's voice, "Buddy, where have you been? I've been trying to call--"

Taylor, "Yeah, I'm sorry, but I can't come to Philly."

Ward's voice, "What! What's going on? Taylor--"

Taylor, "My mother's maybe dying. Like I told--"

Ward's voice, "But Taylor--"

Taylor, "Sorry, Ward, you'll have to do Philly. I'll do DC. I'm here, I'll do it."

Ward's voice, "Buddy, hey, look, the others--"

Taylor, "Yeah, I know. But I'm here. DC's no problem. See you then."

Taylor hangs up.

* * * * *

In his office, Ward puts down his phone.

Ward, "Get two tickets to DC."

Bob smugly leans back in his desk chair, "Sir, you did a great job in New York."

Ward, "He's just missing good friends, that's all."

Bob, "I'm sure you can handle Phil--"

Ward, "He's just... missing... good friends! Get the damn tickets."

Ward storms out of the office.

Bob smirks.

* * * * *

Chapter 43 - Trying to tell us something

* * * * *

Ruthy's bedroom.

Amber sings to Ruthy.

Taylor and Spence sit close by.

Amber, "Here we go up in the swings so high / just you and I / we touch the sky / like a butterfly / we swing and we sway and we seem to fly / you and I."

Amber kisses Ruthy, then pulls away.

Ruthy's eyes partly open, her head turns toward Amber.

Amber, "Nana? Nana, want to kiss me back?"

Amber puts her cheek near Ruthy's mouth.

Ruthy purses her lips against Amber.

Amber pulls back, watches Ruthy shut her eyes, "She kissed me, she's still here and knows us! Do either of you want to kiss her?"

Spence, "Sure."

They both come close to the bed.

Spence kisses Ruthy, "Hi, Mom, I love you."

He puts his cheek near Ruthy's mouth.

Ruthy doesn't do anything.

He shrugs, turns to Taylor, "Have a go, brother."

Taylor kisses Ruthy.

Ruthy's head turns away.

Taylor pulls back, eyes watering.

He leaves the room.

Amber, "I'm sorry, maybe it was just wishful thinking."

Spence, "Don't you worry, Amber. Taylor and I know how much she loves you."

Amber, "But she loves both of you, also."

Spence, "Yeah, we know that, too, but different."

Amber, "Maybe she's trying to tell us something."

* * * * *

Chapter 44 - What's going on?

* * * * *

Amber busies herself dusting around the living room photos.

She stares at the one with Ruthy, Barbara and herself.

Lost in thought, she holds it and strolls to Ruthy's bedroom.

Maria sits next to Ruthy.

Amber, "I feel so much better when he's out. I'm so afraid for Nana."

Maria, "Maybe he's just scared and doesn't know what to do. I often think people supporting euthanasia are just plain scared to watch someone like your Nana die in her own time."

Amber, "That's what my mother says. She still loves my dad, but she views him now like he is a scared child."

Amber's eyes drop to the photo.

Maria, "I must meet her one day. People who can forgive are hard to find. Why don't you make some coffee. I'll bathe Nana."

Amber walks to the kitchen.

She boils water, grabs cups.

Someone knocks on the apartment door.

She opens it.

Ward stands with his assistant Bob behind him.

Amber's face turns cold.

They both hesitate.

Amber chews her lip.

Ward, "Excuse me, is Taylor Burns here?"

Amber slams the door shut.

Her whole body shakes as she slides the bolts.

Amber, "Maria! Maria!"

Ward, "Hey, look, I just want to talk with him."

Amber's hysterical, "MARIA!"

Maria rushes in.

Amber and Maria hug.

Maria, "Amber, what is it? Someone hurt you? Who's out there?"

Amber can't answer.

Ward, "Hey, whoever's Maria in there. I didn't hurt Amber. I just want to talk with Taylor. Hey, I'm sorry, I'm not here to cause any harm."

Amber, "Don't open it. He's here to kill Nana."

Maria, "Go away, Mister. Taylor's not here."

Ward, "We're not going to kill anyone. Please, can you--"

Amber, "Go away! Go away!"

Maria, "Mister, I'm going to call security."

Ward, "No, look, it's okay we'll leave."

Ward and Bob head up the hallway.

Ward, "One hell of a fucking old people's nut house."

Bob, "Watch it."

Bob points at Betty and another security guard racing toward them, "Stay cool, Sir."

They act nonchalant as the guards pass by and knock on Ruthy's apartment.

Ward and Bob duck out a side door.

* * * * *

Ward and Bob exit, look around, check their bearings.

Ward, "Where's the car?"

Taylor drives by.

They spot him and dash after him.

Ward, "Taylor! Taylor!"

Taylor pulls into a parking spot, gets out, "Hi guys, good to see you."

Ward, "Shit, buddy, what's going on?"

Taylor, "Like I said--"

Ward, "No, come on, we need you."

Taylor, "Ward, listen, okay, listen."

Ward relaxes, "Yeah, what?"

Taylor, "I thought my daughter had the Health Care Proxy."

Ward, "So?"

Taylor, "My mother never made one for her. Only one with me as agent from nine years ago."

Ward, "Hey."

Bob, "Good one, Taylor."

Taylor, "Right, so don't you guys worry. And tell everyone else I'm okay. I just need some time."

Ward, "But--"

Taylor grabs some dry cleaning from his car, "You want to come in, have a drink?"

Ward, "Uh--"

Bob, "Thanks, Taylor, but we better head back to the airport."

Ward, "Yeah, uh, okay, we'll let everyone know you're--"

Taylor, "And don't worry, I'm here, so I'll do the DC rally."

* * * * *

Ward drives from the parking lot toward the Security Gate, as Bob casually lights a cigarette.

Bob, "Excuse me, Sir, I have a hunch and if I'm not mistaken, how would you like to be the next president of A.C.E. NOW?"

Ward is taken by surprise.

Bob smiles, "I'm betting Taylor wants to retire."

Ward, "Hey, no way, Bob, you don't know Taylor. He... he's just caught up. He'll take care of his mother. Don't you worry."

They drive out the gate.

Protestors march.

A cameraman sits atop the CNN Van.

Bob, "Okay, maybe I'm wrong."

Bob smirks as he blows smoke out his window at protestors, who recognize Ward and Bob.

Protestor, "Go back to Oregon, you assholes!"

A tomato flies in through Bob's window, striking the dash.

* * * * *

Chapter 45 - Humans can

* * * * *

Amber fidgets, tidying Ruthy's bedroom ornaments and photos.

Jefferson sits holding Ruthy's hand.

Amber, "I got so scared."

Jefferson, "Maybe they're scared, too."

Amber, "Maybe we're all scared. Jefferson, how many children do you have?"

Jefferson, "Alive, three. Two died. Fourteen grandkids, though they're hardly kids."

They laugh.

Jefferson, "And twenty-five great ones. A few have died."

Unconsciously Amber grabs a photo of Taylor and one of Spence.

Amber, "Do you love them all?"

Jefferson, "Each and every one."

Amber, "The same?"

Jefferson, "Do you like cherries?"

Amber, "Sure."

Jefferson, "Watermelon?"

Amber, "Yes."

Jefferson, "The same?"

Amber frowns, glances at the photos in her hands, quickly puts them back on a dresser.

She looks out the window.

Amber, "I don't eat cherries or watermelon if they're off. I throw them away."

Jefferson, "That's because they can never return to being good."

Amber spins around.

Jefferson, "Humans can."

Jefferson stands, "When you love someone deeply, it doesn't always mean you like everything they do."

He kisses Ruthy, "Ruthy, you have a beautiful granddaughter."

He smiles to Amber and leaves.

* * * * *

Chapter 46 - Thank you

* * * * *

From his car, Taylor walks toward the automatic doors at the main entrance.

They open before he gets there, stay open as the old woman shuffles out, bent over her cane.

* * * * *

Inside, Amber pulls mail from Nana's mailbox, spots Taylor outside near the old woman.

She watches.

The shuttle bus arrives.

Taylor approaches the woman and helps her up the steps.

Old woman, "Why, thank you, young man. That's so sweet of you."

Amber's eyes drop as Taylor enters the lobby.

* * * * *

Chapter 47 - Me, too

* * * * *

A huge banner at a Euthanasia Convention reads, "FREEDOM TO DIE AS WE WISH, SUPPORT A.C.E. - American Committee for Euthanasia".

Taylor stands behind the podium, giving a rousing speech, "They say we don't want to watch our loved ones become crippled, ill, comatose and such. They say we are the scared ones who can't handle the realities of life."

The audience jeers.

Taylor, "Nothing could be further from the truth."

Cheers.

Taylor turns off the video, shuts the computer lid.

His left hand holds the photo of him and his father.

He gets up, walks to Ruthy's bedroom.

Amber sings next to Ruthy, "Here we go up in the swings so high / just you and I / we touch the sky--"

Taylor appears at the door, unseen to Amber as she strokes Ruthy's hair.

Sensing him, she stops, looks around.

Taylor, "Please continue."

He sits down, "Mom used to sing it to me, too."

Amber, "Like a butterfly / we swing and we sway and we seem to fly / you and I."

Amber stops, strokes Ruthy's hair, "Nana, I understand now."

She kisses Ruthy on her cheek.

Taylor's eyes glisten.

Amber turns to him, "Would you like to sing to her?"

Taylor hesitates, "Not right now, thanks."

* * * * *

Chapter 48 - Joelle, stop!

* * * * *

Joelle washes her face in the motel bathroom.

She stops, looks long at herself in the mirror.

Her eyes go to two bottles of prescription medication, for Joelle Burns.

Her face hardens.

She grabs the bottles, throws them into the trash can.

She collects herself, stands tall.

She sneers, looks at the mirror, laughs.

* * * * *

Joelle steps out of the bathroom, hand to her head.

On the sofa, Spence reads a paper.

Joelle, "Honey, I think the kids need a break tonight. I have a migraine. Can you take them out for a flick?"

Spence, "Sure, sounds good."

Spence opens the adjoining door.

Clara watches TV.

She holds Taylor's cards.

Wayne's on the couch with headphones on.

Spence, "Hey, want to go to the movies?"

Clara races into Spence's arms, "Sure, Daddy."

Wayne glances up, spots Joelle standing behind Spence.

She nods to Wayne.

He shrugs, gets up.

* * * * *

Taylor sits on Ruthy's patio, stands, looks up at stars.

His phone rings.

He checks the caller, answers.

Taylor, "Yes."

Joelle talks and undresses at the same time, "Taylor, can you come over to the motel? We'd like to discuss some new ideas."

Taylor, "We? You and Spence?"

Joelle, "Of course."

Taylor, "Okay, about fifteen minutes."

Taylor hangs up, his gaze returns to the stars.

Joelle finishes undressing, admires herself in the mirror.

She puts on a full length dressing gown.

* * * * *

Taylor walks to his car.

He tops under a light.

He pulls out his wallet, slides his driver's license out revealing a photo of his estranged wife, Barbara.

He pauses long, slides his license back over it.

* * * * *

Joelle sits at the kitchenette table, tapping her fingers.

Three glasses and one bottle of wine.

A knock.

She jumps up, stops, collects and preens herself.

She opens it to Taylor, "Hi, come on in."

Taylor hesitates, looks around the room, "Spence?"

Joelle, "Oh, the kids wanted to see a movie, so he took them out. It's okay, I can tell you what we've been thinking."

Taylor doesn't move.

Joelle grins, sits at the table, "Scared?"

Taylor enters, shuts the door yet stays standing, "Spence beat me up once when I was ten."

Joelle, "Was he bullying you?"

Taylor, "I borrowed his bike. Actually I took it without asking. Mine had a flat tire and I was in a hurry."

Joelle, "Well, you needn't worry about that now, do you?"

Joelle shifts, allowing the top of her robe to open, "He doesn't have a bike. Like a drink?"

Joelle reaches for the bottle exposing one breast.

She closes her top, "Oh, sorry."

She pours two glasses, smiles, "Like to sit or are you going to stand there like a--"

Taylor, "Joelle."

Joelle rises slowly, allowing her robe to open, revealing herself fully, "Taylor, I've loved you since I met you. If only you were single then."

She glides toward him, "You're single now."

She allows her robe to drop to the floor, "We have time."

Joelle beckons as she approaches.

Taylor stands unmoving.

He shakes his head.

Joelle, "You shit!"

She lashes out to slap him.

Taylor grabs her hand, holds it firmly as she scratches her other hand's fingernails across his face, drawing blood.

He pushes her away, "Joelle, stop it!"

Joelle, "Damn you!"

She grabs her robe, covers and collects herself as if nothing happened.

She picks up a glass of wine and smiles as Taylor wipes his wounds with a hanky.

He turns to the door.

Joelle, sarcasticly, "I'm sorry, Taylor. Can I kiss it and make it feel better?"

He grabs the handle, pauses, keeps his gaze on the door, "I repaired my flat tire and never took Spence's bike again."

He leaves.

Joelle heaves the glass at the door.

It shatters.

She breaks down, crying.

* * * * *

Chapter 49 - Never

* * * * *

Broken glass lies near a trash can of a city street.

Taylor steps over the glass.

He walks by a street bitch, feeding her litter.

He stops, looks across the street to a Bar.

* * * * *

Two big fellows throw darts at the far end of the bar.

One has a tattoo heart of MOM on his arm.

Another semi-hidden elderly man sits, drinking in the shadows of a stall.

Taylor enters, approaches the bartender, also big.

Above bottles of booze reads Virginia's favorite sign, "VIRGINIA IS FOR LOVERS" with hearts.

Souvenirs line the shelf.

Bartender, "Nasty scratches on your face. Playing with your cat?"

Taylor, "Beer, thanks."

The Bartender checks Taylor over, "Burns, right, Taylor Burns?"

Taylor smiles, "Are we old friends?"

Bartender, "My ass."

He strolls to the far end of the bar, talks to the dart players.

Taylor drops his head, lost in thought.

He gets up to leave as the Bartender returns.

Bartender, "Beer? Large or small?"

Taylor, "Small's fine."

The two dart players slide over and stand behind Taylor.

The Bartender fills a pitcher.

Taylor, "I said small's fine."

Bartender, "It's on the house."

Taylor, "That's nice, thanks, but I don't think I'll be able to drink it all."

The Bartender grins, "No problem."

Taylor senses the fellows behind him.

He pulls out a twenty, puts it on the bar.

Taylor, "Please treat the room."

He rises, turns.

Tattoo flashes his tattoo to Taylor, "We're a couple of truckies, just average guys. But we got a feeling about our moms and our wives. When you truly love someone who's ill you feel it in your gut."

Taylor, "Yes, I--"

Tattoo slams Taylor in his stomach.

He doubles over.

Shadow man's voice, "Hey."

The Bartender looks over at the man in shadows.

Tattoo, "We're not real happy about people who kill old folk and leave their wives."

Tattoo's partner forces Taylor upright.

Shadow man's voice, "Stop it."

Tattoo, "If that's not enough, when your loved one is so down, and your brain cries out, you want to scream at God why he's treating your loved one this way. Your brain, Burns, right here."

He touches Taylor's head.

Taylor puts his arms up around his head.

Tattoo's partner pulls them away.

Shadow man's voice, "Stop it!"

Tattoo pauses, then slams Taylor in his head.

He lands on the floor.

Shadow man bangs his mug on the table.

Shadow man, "Enough!"

Tattoo frowns at Shadow man.

Tattoo, "Time to leave, Burns. Virginia ain't for killers."

Tattoo and his friend grab Taylor, drag him outside, "Go back to Oregon!"

They throw Taylor to the ground.

The door bangs shut.

Taylor struggles to get up, slips, hits his head on a pole.

He uses the pole to stand.

Forehead bleeding, he looks toward the bar, looks down the road.

He staggers back into the bar.

Tattoo, his friend and the Bartender stand near the dart board.

Tattoo poises to throw.

Taylor, "What if..."

The men turn, astonished.

Their faces show their confusion yet respect that Taylor would walk back in.

Taylor, "What if the old person is very ill?"

The men hesitate.

Shadow man, "No."

Taylor peers towards the semi-hidden man.

Taylor, "Full of pain?"

Shadow man, "No."

Taylor, "Very sad?"

Shadow man, "No."

Taylor, "Alone?"

Shadow man, "Can you prove that death is the end of suffering?"

Taylor, "What if they feel they've lived long enough?"

Shadow man, "No."

Taylor, "When?"

Shadow man, "Assisted suicide, never."

Taylor, "Why?"

Shadow man, "People don't need approval to kill themselves."

He takes a drink, "When a suicidal person asks another to help, they ask another to kill."

He pauses long, "When society approves of killing, where does it end?"

Taylor turns to go, grabs the door, stops.

He looks back at Shadow man.

Shadow man, "Mr. Burns, is it not wrong to ask someone to become a killer?"

Taylor, "What if they can't do it by themselves?"

Shadow man, "Then maybe someone's love will help them find courage to live until their time's naturally up. And, maybe they can help you find the courage... to allow it."

Taylor stares.

A short eternity.

He drops his head, walks out.

Shadow man, "Tom, I'd like to go home now."

Tattoo walks over to Shadow man.

Shadow man, "Careful with your temper."

Tattoo, "I'm sorry, Dad. But what he does hurts."

Tattoo picks up Shadow man, who has no legs and only one arm.

Shadow man, "I know, but your anger hurts you."

Tattoo, "Yes, Dad."

* * * * *

Chapter 50 - What now?

* * * * *

Taylor stops his car on a bridge, high over Interstate 95.

He gets out, stands close to the edge, looks down at the speeding traffic.

Sirens.

An ambulance zips by.

He takes no notice.

A long moment.

He turns and walks back to his car.

* * * * *

Chapter 51 - It is possible

* * * * *

A family of ducks paddle in the water of the pond pavilion.

Taylor watches early morning colors.

He holds his wallet, takes out his license exposing Barbara's photo and slides his license in another slot, which leaves Barbara's in the best place.

He spots Jefferson out for a walk in the parking lot.

He races up the hill, "Jefferson!"

Jefferson stops, eyes Taylor's bruised face and Band-Aids as they meet, "Did you sleep-walk into a door, maybe four doors?"

Taylor, "Dreams can be pretty dangerous."

Jefferson, "I won't argue with that."

Taylor, "I have a question, maybe two."

Jefferson, "Glad you caught me while I'm still alive."

They share a smile.

Taylor, "When my dad died... uh..."

Jefferson, "I was there."

Taylor, "Yeah. I... I never thought about death before he died."

Jefferson, "Most folk never do."

Taylor, "He was in such pain. I couldn't help him. There was nothing I could do. I... I felt..."

Jefferson touches Taylor, "Taylor--"

Taylor shakes his head, looks back to the Mother Duck and ducklings.

Taylor, "After he died and then Barbara got ill, I thought I could make it better. I thought somehow I could help other dads and moms and wives... get out... get out of pain. I thought..."

Taylor pauses long, turns back to Jefferson, "It is possible to let a loved one die naturally, right?"

Jefferson, "That's a very good question."

Taylor, "And those who live after can actually learn a great deal in the process, right?"

Jefferson, "Isn't it interesting that if a person is open enough, they can learn something new each day."

Jefferson slouches, "I'm a bit tired today, give me a hand, will you?"

Jefferson and Taylor interlock arms and stroll.

Taylor, "It's my honor."

* * * * *

Chapter 52 - Lost

* * * * *

In the lounge, Amber holds the photo of Taylor and his father.

She arranges the photos so it's most prominent.

She sits down to her breakfast, facing the photos.

Taylor enters.

She sees his bruises, her eyes widen, "You, uh, you okay?"

Taylor, "Yeah, nothing much, I had a fall."

He walks in the kitchen, grabs a bowl and cereal, along with cherries.

Amber, "Nasty fall."

Taylor, "Could have been worse."

Taylor sits at the table.

He sorts the cherries, picks out two rotten ones, "Ever reflect that when you buy a lot of delicious cherries, there will always be some rotten ones?"

Amber, "Can I have those?"

Taylor looks at her questioningly.

She smiles at him for the first time, "I'd like to reflect on them."

Taylor, "When you were growing up, I never gave you rotten cherries."

Amber, "I know."

Taylor holds the rotten ones, hands Amber fresh ones, "But when you grew up..."

They look at each other long.

Both bite their lips.

Taylor, "Find your Health Care Proxy yet?"

Amber drops her head.

Taylor, "I've thought a lot about telling Maria we don't need her anymore. I've also thought a lot about disconnecting the feeding tubes."

Amber, "Please, please don't."

Taylor, "Since the Proxy is in my name, it is my legal decision, isn't it?"

Amber looks up, tears stream down her face, "Yes."

Taylor rises, wanders to the piano, picks up the photo of him and his father, "There was a little boy who went off with his father."

He stares long at the photo, "Then his father disappeared and the little boy was lost."

He looks at Amber, "His mother found him crying and took him home."

Taylor makes a pained expression.

He rests the photo back on the piano, "That boy--"

He pulls out his Proxy, hands it to a surprised Amber, "Here.-- Amber, there's something I want to tell you."

Taylor smiles.

Amber stares.

* * * * *

Chapter 53 - Help!

* * * * *

The door opens.

A tipsy Spence and family stride in.

Spence, "Hey, how's everyone doing?"

Taylor, "About the same."

Clara races to Amber, "Can I feel Jake, Jr. today?"

Amber, "Sure, Clara, come on. He's doing somersaults."

Clara and Amber go to the sofa.

Headphones on, Wayne plops into a soft chair, reads a sports magazine.

Spence, "Saw a great movie last night."

Taylor, "Next time call me, I would have liked to go, too."

Joelle eyes Taylor over.

Spence takes no notice of Taylor's bruises, "Sorry, didn't think to ask."

Spence heads in the kitchen, grabs a beer.

Joelle, "Taylor? You, uh--"

Taylor, "Just a bit of bad luck last night."

Amber passes by, on her way to the hallway bathroom, leaving Clara playing with dolls.

Joelle, "I'm sorry."

Taylor, "Sure."

Joelle's face hardens.

She mouths the words, "You bastard!"

She turns to Spence as he comes out of the kitchen, "Spence, oh Spence!"

She bursts into tears, hugs Spence and whispers to him.

Spence's face flusters.

He frowns at Taylor, "Hey, brother, you shouldn't say that to Joelle."

Taylor, "I didn't say anything bad."

Joelle, "Don't lie, Taylor. And don't you call me a slut! Wayne! Come here."

Wayne, "What's up, Mom?"

Taylor, "Wait a minute."

Spence, "Better apologize, brother."

Joelle, "Taylor's into insulting women today."

Taylor stands, "Spence, I didn't say that."

Joelle, "He's lying, honey, like when he took your bike."

Spence's eyes widen more, "Taylor! I'm going to count to three! One!"

Wayne, "Go ahead, Spence, hit him."

Spence, "Two!"

Taylor, "I'm not going to fight you, Spence."

Wayne, "Wipe him, Spence."

Clara jumps up, stares in fear.

Spence, "Three!"

Spence lunges at Taylor, who ducks and steps away.

Wayne shoves Taylor back toward Spence, "Fuck you, Taylor."

Taylor rams into Spence, who swings wildly over Taylor's head.

Taylor, "Spence, please stop!"

Taylor pushes Spence away.

Spence lands against a side table.

He halters, gasps for air, "Uh, uh..."

Spence grabs his chest, eyes wide.

Taylor, "Spence!"

Taylor hugs Spence.

Joelle screams, "No! No! You can't die on me!"

She fumbles in her bag.

She pulls out Spence's pills as Spence's head goes limp in Taylor's arm.

Joelle, "No!"

Wayne, "Fuck, you killed him."

Taylor, "Help me."

He tries to revive Spence.

Joelle, "How can you do this! No!"

She races to the hallway as Amber comes out of the bathroom.

Amber, "What's going on?"

Joelle, "Out of my way, bitch."

She knees Amber in the gut, grabs Amber's head and shoves her back in the bathroom.

Amber crashes into the toilet, giving her stomach another strike.

* * * * *

Taylor tries to resuscitate Spence.

Wayne pumps Spence's heart.

Clara watches in shock.

From the bathroom, Amber screams in pain, "Aggggh!"

Taylor spins toward the hallway, jumps up and speeds to Amber, "Amber, Amber!"

He kneels beside her, his hand touches her's clutching her stomach.

* * * * *

In Ruthy's bedroom, Joelle kicks and hits Maria down, grabs a butterfly pillow from a chair and crams it on top of Ruthy.

Maria springs up, tries to pull Joelle away, "Help! Help me! Help Mrs. Burns!"

* * * * *

Taylor hears Joelle yelling, "No, she's going to die, damn her."

Taylor, "Mom!"

He kisses Amber's head, "I love you."

He races to Ruthy's bedroom, "Stop it!"

He grabs the pillow, heaves it across the room, shoves Joelle against the wall.

Joelle, "Wayne! Wayne!"

* * * * *

Wayne stops trying to revive Spence, "Fuck him."

He dashes to the bedroom.

Stunned, Clara sits down next to Spence's body.

* * * * *

Amber's whole body shakes, she stretches to reach the emergency cord.

* * * * *

Wayne, "Bastard, get off my mom!"

He yanks Taylor and pounds into him with all his kick-boxing skills.

Maria races out Ruthy's patio door.

* * * * *

Amber's hand grabs the cord, pulls as she passes out.

* * * * *

Buzzers sound and lights flash in the Security Room.

Betty and three other Security officers grab medical gear.

* * * * *

Jake's across the playground, shutting his Police car door.

Maria screams, outside on the patio, "They're killing Mrs. Burns! Help! They're killing her!"

He speeds, pulling out his gun.

* * * * *

Clara sits next to Spence's body, "Daddy, Daddy, you're not dead, right? Daddy?"

She rests her head on his chest.

* * * * *

Wayne lays into Taylor, on the floor, trying to cover his head from the blows.

Joelle grabs the pillow, presses it over Ruthy's face.

Jake enters, gun leveled, "Stop! Stop or I'll shoot. Police! Stop!"

Wayne and Joelle look over at Jake.

Wayne, "Fuck you, Jake."

He raises his hand up to smash Taylor.

* * * * *

The Security Officers barge in the front door.

Betty goes to Spence and Clara.

The other three dash in the hallway.

One spots Amber, the other two head to Ruthy's bedroom.

Gunshot.

The Officers stop in their tracks, pull out their guns.

One talks in his phone, "More backups, quick, shooting!"

* * * * *

Wayne's on the floor, holding his bloody shoulder, "Mom! He shot me!"

Joelle stands frozen.

Jake, "Step away, Joelle, or you're next."

She backs away as Jake moves closer and pulls the pillow off Ruthy.

He checks her breathing, nods his head toward staggering Taylor.

Officer's voice, "Whoever's in there with a gun, stop the shooting, this is security and police are on their way."

Jake, "Welcome, the police are already here."

* * * * *

The two Officers crouch, waiting.

They shake their heads to each other.

Officer, "Mister, throw out your gun."

Taylor's voice, "He is a cop. It's okay, he stopped people killing Mrs. Burns."

Jake's voice, "Jake Walden, Virginia State Police. Come on in, and help me with this."

The Officers still hesitate.

* * * * *

The Officer with Amber checks her pulse, as he talks in his phone, "Can you hear me?"

Betty joins them.

* * * * *

Taylor strokes Ruthy's head.

Jake keeps his gun pointed at Joelle and Wayne.

They hear the officer with Amber, "Pregnant woman unconscious."

Jake, "What'd somebody just say?"

Officer's voice, "Mister, throw out your gun."

Jake, "Damn it, what'd someone say about a pregnant woman?"

Taylor races to the door, "Amber's hurt."

Jake, "Taylor, stop!"

Taylor pauses, looks at Jake with surprise.

Jake, "They might shoot you."

Taylor smiles, Jake smiles back.

Betty's voice, "That you, Jake?"

Jake, "Damn, Betty, get in here."

The three Officers rush in, as Taylor exits.

Jake, "Joelle and Wayne, they're under arrest, attempted murder and assault."

He dashes out.

* * * * *

Chapter 54 - I thought I understood

* * * * *

In a hospital room, Amber sleeps, almost sitting up as the hospital bed head area is raised quite high.

Her tummy's flat.

Jake sits next to her on one side.

Taylor walks in, "The doctor told me... I'm sorry."

Jake nods, extends his hand for a warm shake, "Thanks, Taylor."

Amber wakes, "Daddy."

Taylor, "That's a nice sound."

Amber smiles.

Taylor, "I'm sorry you lost Jake, Jr."

Amber nods.

Jake strokes her hair.

Taylor, "Jefferson's with Mom now. She's peaceful."

Jake picks up an empty water pitcher, gets up to leave, "Like anything else, honey?"

Amber shakes her head.

He leaves.

Amber, "I want to tell you something."

Taylor, "Maybe the same thing I almost told you yesterday."

Amber and Taylor, "I'm sorry."

They hug.

He sits on the bed.

Amber, "I only really understood Nana yesterday."

Taylor, "She's an inspiration, even now, she helped--"

Amber, "-- me get my father back."

Taylor appears self conscious, "Life has detours.-- Maybe next time it'll be a girl. Sons are good, daughters are priceless."

Taylor's expression changes, he checks his watch, looks out the window, clouds darken.

Jake enters with a full pitcher.

Amber, "You're still going to the rally?"

Taylor, "I promised them I'd lead it."

Amber, "But... I don't understand."

Taylor, "Join the world. Sorry, I have to go."

Taylor leaves.

Amber slumps back, eyes watering.

Jake, "The ass."

Amber, "I... I thought he changed."

Jake, "You'd have more luck kissing a shark."

Amber looks out the window, a light rain falls, "It's so hard. How does Nana love so unconditionally? I thought I understood her, but not now."

* * * * *

Chapter 55 - Ready

* * * * *

Taylor exits the hospital, stands under an overhead as rain pelts down.

He pulls out his phone, presses a speed number.

Taylor, "Hi, Ward."

* * * * *

In a DC convention hall, many A.C.E. personnel put finishing touches on the podium.

Ward talks on his phone, "Taylor, that you? You okay, buddy?"

Taylor, "Yeah."

Ward, "Where the shit are you? Everyone's--"

Taylor, "At the hospital, don't worry. I'll be there in thirty minutes, no sweat. I'm ready for some action, today's the big one!"

Ward, "Great, Taylor. I'll tell everyone you're okay, right?"

Taylor, "Yeah, see you soon."

Elated, Ward turns off his phone, yells, "Hey everybody, I just talked to Taylor. He's ready, he's on his way!"

Everyone cheers.

Except Bob, whose expression conveys doubt.

* * * * *

Chapter 56 - Taylor arrives

* * * * *

Heavy rain.

Dozens of Euthanasia protestors, with placards and umbrellas, gather around the Convention Center entrance, along with several media cameramen.

Some protestors huddle in a small open tent, watch a TV, mounted on a high stool, showing the inside of the Convention Hall where Ward and others mill around.

* * * * *

Taylor's taxi pulls up at the curb of the Convention Center.

He stares out at the protestors.

Thunder.

Taxi driver, "Forty-two fifty."

Taylor doesn't respond.

Taxi driver, "Mister, forty-two fifty."

Taylor, "Sorry, here, keep the change."

Taylor hands the driver a fifty.

* * * * *

He exits the taxi, walks briskly to the entrance.

Protestor's voice, "Hey, look!"

Many protestors yell out, "Go back to Oregon... Burn in hell, Burns... Killer, killer..."

Taylor races in the door as tomatoes fly at him.

* * * * *

Taylor enters the building.

Everyone's elated.

Many A.C.E. staff greet him, take his wet coat, hand him a dry one.

They lead him through the lobby to the Convention Hall.

* * * * *

Chapter 57 - The Convention

* * * * *

Jake helps Amber out of bed, "You sure you want to walk?"

Amber, "Yes."

Jake supports Amber as they exit the room.

* * * * *

On the Convention stage, a smiling Ward stands at the podium, in front of a thousand supporters.

Ward, "Ladies and Gentlemen, it's my pleasure to introduce the man you've all been waiting for. Without whom A.C.E. NOW would never be the leading euthanasia organization in the world, Mr. Taylor Burns."

A standing ovation.

Taylor strides forward, waving to everyone, "Thank you, thank you one and all. It's my joy to be here with all of you. Don't worry about my face, I walked into seventeen doors. I don't advise it, though it does add some color to my complexion."

Laughter.

Taylor, "I'd like to thank the press for the wonderful coverage you're giving us today. I'm sure you'll have lots to write about tonight."

The crowd cheers.

* * * * *

Amber and Jake walk through the hospital.

Amber, "Jake, are we just too young and idealistic?"

Jake laughs.

Amber, "I really, really thought I understood."

Jake, "Well, I don't."

Amber, "Maybe we're all like Nana's friend who had six kids, and we just muddle along in life the best we can."

They reach a TV lounge.

Many patients view Taylor's speech.

Jake, "Shit."

They stop, watch.

Taylor, "As you all know, I've worked hard for the last three years to help get the Death With Dignity Act passed in all states. I've been tireless in my work."

Cheers from the convention audience.

Amber, "Maybe I just have to accept him more and not try to change him."

Taylor, "During the last week, I wasn't able to do much because my daughter had a miscarriage, my brother died and my Mother's in a coma. Even though the doctors feel she'll also die soon, yesterday I fought to keep my mother alive. Because I know she's still aware... she's still there inside her shell of a body."

Deadly silence.

Amber, "Oh, my gosh!"

Taylor smiles, takes a relaxed stance, "Sorry if that was a bit sobering. Let's get back on track, okay? We talk a lot about dying with dignity."

He hypes the crowd, "It's been our mission! It's been our hope!"

Cheers.

"We have a dream! We're trying to change the world!"

Heavy cheers.

"Dying with dignity!"

The crowd's wild.

Taylor pauses long.

Jake, "No change, he's just the same."

Amber puts her head on Jake's shoulder, "Jake..."

Taylor, "Quality of life is more important than quantity... But what does quality of life actually mean? We talk a lot about dying with dignity. For the last three years, I've worked very hard. I thought I could help make the dying process better."

Applause.

Taylor looks long over the crowd.

Amber, "I will, I'll accept him as he is. I shouldn't hate him just because he has a different view."

Taylor, "And I know all of you feel similar. You have a wonderful wish to help make ours and our loved ones' exits from this life more dignified."

Cheers.

Taylor, "But we've missed something. We've missed talking about helping elderly and ill people learn how to live with dignity. My mother has a favorite saying, "When you watch something beautiful die naturally, you can learn a great deal about how to truly live." During this last week, my mother's been teaching me that the dying process can already be a death with dignity. We only have to learn how to deal with it, not interfere with it."

Silence.

Taylor pauses.

Amber and Jake watch, stunned.

Taylor looks at the TV camera, as if looking directly at them, "I hereby resign as president of A.C.E. NOW."

Taylor strides off the stage, out a side door.

Reporters race to catch him.

Bob sits near the side door, shakes his head.

The angry crowd erupts with boos and harsh words.

* * * * *

Outside the Convention Center, the rain has stopped, bright sunshine.

Tears of joy run down the protestors' faces as they watch the TV showing Taylor leave amid the booing crowd.

Announcer's voice, "There you have it folks, Taylor Burns, previously known as Mr. Killer, has changed his tune..."

Protestor, "Holy Moses."

Taylor exits the Center.

The protestors cheer.

* * * * *

In the hospital, flowing tears as Amber and Jake hug.

* * * * *

Chapter 58 - Ruthy did it

* * * * *

Ruthy's bedroom.

Maria sits next to Ruthy.

Taylor walks in, "I'll sit with her."

Maria looks at him surprised.

Taylor, "It's alright, Maria. I have a feeling she isn't going to last much longer and I'd like to be here with her."

Maria, "Two days ago, I'd stay to watch you."

She gives him a hug, "I'd love a walk."

Maria leaves.

Taylor grabs the butterfly pillow from the soft chair.

The same pillow Joelle used to try to kill Ruthy.

He plumps it a few times, checks Ruthy over, then looks toward the hallway.

The front door closes.

He fluffs the pillow, puts it on the chair next to her and sits down.

He grabs Ruthy's hand.

Taylor sings, "Here we go up in the swings so high / just you and I / we touch the sky / like a butterfly / we swing and we sway and we seem to fly / you and I."

* * * * *

Maria sleeps on the living room couch.

Amber enters, spots Maria, heads to Ruthy's bedroom.

She stops at the door, hears Taylor singing very slowly.

Taylor's voice, "Here we go up in the swings so high... just you and I... we touch the sky... like a butterfly... we swing and we sway and we seem to fly... you... and... I"

Amber's eyes tear.

She walks in.

* * * * *

Taylor lays next to Ruthy, cradling her in his arm.

Taylor, "Mom, Amber's here."

Ruthy's head tilts to the door.

Her eyes stay shut.

Amber gives her a kiss, "Nana, do you want to give me a kiss?"

Amber puts her cheek to Ruthy's lips, which purse.

Amber, "Nana, what about Dad, do you want to give him a kiss?"

Ruthy's head tilts toward Taylor.

He looks up at Amber, smiles and puts his cheek to Ruthy's lips, which purse.

He strokes her head, "Here we go up in the swings so high..."

Amber, "Just you and I..."

Taylor, "We touch the sky..."

Amber, "Like a butterfly..."

Taylor, "We swing and we sway and we seem to fly..."

Amber, "You and..."

Taylor, "I.-- Thank you, Mom."

Ruthy's eyes half open, she looks up at a hanging glass butterfly.

Tears run down Amber's cheeks.

Taylor's eyes water.

He reaches up to the butterfly, gives it a little spin.

Amber, "Nana, you did it."

Ruthy slightly smiles, takes her last breath, the smile stays on her dead face.

Taylor and Amber take it in.

He reaches for her face, closes her eyes.

* * * * *

Chapter 59 - Will you help me?

* * * * *

Cemetery.

Double new graves for Ruthy and Spence, next to Ruthy's deceased husband.

Amber's framed photo of butterflies rests against Ruthy's gravestone.

Joelle and Wayne are not present.

Clara stands in-between Amber and Taylor, holding Amber's hand.

Jake's arm hugs Amber.

Jefferson and a hundred elder friends surround them.

Minister, "May Ruthy Burns and Spence Burns rest in peace. Amen."

Everyone, "Amen."

Taylor reaches down and grabs some dirt, tosses it into the graves.

Amber and Jake do similar.

Taylor motions to Clara to join.

She hesitates, "Did you kill my daddy?"

Taylor, "No, Clara."

Clara, "Did you help him die?"

Taylor, "No."

Clara, "Did you kill Nana?"

Taylor, "No."

Clara, "Did you help her die?"

Taylor, "That's a good question, Clara. I'm not sure, but I hope I did help her die more peaceful and happy."

Clara, "When I die, will you help me?"

Taylor, "If I'm alive, I'll try. But if I die before you, will you help me?"

Clara, "I don't know how."

Taylor, "Maybe you can learn."

Clara smiles and grabs Taylor's hand with one hand, holding tight.

She reaches for dirt with her other hand.

* * * * *

Chapter 60 - For Life

* * * * *

Through an airport, Taylor walks with Amber, Jake and Clara.

Clara wears Ruthy's butterfly brooch, holding hands with Taylor and Amber.

They stop at the St. Louis flight gate.

The "BOARDING NOW" sign flashes.

Both Amber and Taylor chew their lips.

Taylor, "My stomach's churning inside and out."

Amber, "She'll forgive you."

Taylor, "Scared shitless is mild, I'm constipated like glue."

Amber, "Did I forgive you?"

Taylor, "You know, you have a nervous habit of chewing your bottom lip."

Amber, "Some of my best friends do it."

They smile at each other.

Taylor, "Clara, you going to be alright with Amber and Jake?"

Clara, "Can I stay with them forever?"

Taylor, "Maybe, we'll see what the court decides.-- Here's a treat for all of you."

He pulls out a box of the special chocolates, a second box stays in his bag.

He hands them to Clara, whose eyes light up.

Clara, "Can I have one now?"

Taylor glances at Amber.

She smiles.

Amber, "Go ahead, dear."

Clara opens the box and extends it to Taylor before taking one herself.

Taylor, "Thank you, but ladies first."

He indicates Amber.

Clara, "Here, Amber, do you want one? They're really yummy."

Amber takes one, "It's been light years since I had one."

Clara, "Now it's your turn, Uncle Taylor."

Taylor takes one.

Clara hands them to Jake and then she grabs one.

Taylor, "Do you know the family tradition?"

Clara, "What's that?"

Taylor and Amber extend their chocolates to each other and take a bite.

Clara, "Hey, neat!"

They all take turns eating from each other's chocolate.

Taylor, "Mom's last words to me were, "Taylor, when you're a parent, it's for life."

Amber, "For life?"

Taylor touches Amber's cheek gently, "For life."

They hug.

He shakes hands with Jake, "You two take care of each other."

He hugs Clara.

Taylor, "You take care of Amber and Jake, okay, big girl?"

Clara, "I will."

Amber, "Say hi to Mom for us."

Taylor walks to the boarding check in, where elderly grandparents hug grandchildren goodbye.

He stops, looks back to Amber.

Taylor, "For life, Amber."

Amber, "For life, Dad."

* * * * *

The end

About the Author

Thank you for reading "For Life", one of Steve Weissman's 13 stories now available worldwide. We hope you enjoyed the "journey" with Taylor, Amber, Ruthy and the other characters.

Steve has been an international Buddhist meditation teacher since 1987. He was a resident teacher at a meditation center in Thailand for 25 years, teaching over 8,000 students from more than 85 countries. He currently lives in Australia, and continues teaching at various centers worldwide.

It was in his early years of teaching that Steve started weaving in entertaining short stories. One of his students commented on how they thought Steve could successfully write a screenplay. At the time Steve had far too much work to consider such a project, and dropped the thought.

Several years later, Steve was contemplating the Buddhist philosophy concerning death in different realms of existence, particularly the higher realms. In those realms, beings are thought to live an extremely long time and may come to believe their existence is permanent. He wondered what it would be like to explain what death is to someone, who had absolutely no knowledge about the aging process or death. These thoughts sparked more thoughts, and three days later, Steve finished his first screenplay draft.

After polishing that script and experimenting with a few more, Steve realized that no one has yet produced a dramatic movie of the Buddha's life for Western audiences. Yes, there are many biographies of the Buddha, but a biography is a biography, and very difficult to create the excitement that movie audiences want.

So, why not write a semi-fictious biography, with the dimension and character of a true "Hero's journey"?

Steve's movie script, "The Great Quest" is that story, which has the potential to become the first Hollywood-level, dramatic movie of the Buddha's life produced for both Western and worldwide audiences. <http://thegreatquest.net>

But although "The Great Quest" has made 22 script contest finals, Steve's many attempts to attract producers, directors, actors, agents and managers, has not yet produced fruit.

Understanding more about the film industry, Steve realized that a film of this magnitude - with good directing & acting - could be Oscar-worthy, but it would be very expensive. So he decided to write more scripts that were lower budget, thinking that if one of these would sell, he might get a better response for "The Great Quest". These scripts have made another 36 finals, and he has now won 7 contests, with dozens more semi & quarterfinals.

But, again, Steve's attempts to attract Hollywood interest, has not yet produced fruit.

So now his thought is - turn the scripts into inexpensive short stories, and see what happens.

Do you have any possible connections with film personnel? If so, would you please pass "For Life" on to them. Steve will also gladly send all 13 of his stories to anyone who has a genuine interest in turning one or more of these into a film.

And, if you did enjoy this story and would like to help in even a small way, would you please take a few moments to leave a good review at your favorite retailer? More positive reviews will encourage others to read and enjoy it, too.

Thank you very much. You might be that special person who can help "For Life" and "The Great Quest" become wonderful movies.

More information about Steve's teaching can be found at <https://rosemary-steve.org>. And specific film/stories information can be found at <http://thegreatquest.net/stories.htm>.

* * * * *

Steve's 13 stories

The Great Quest

Drama Biopic

Based on the true story of the Buddha: The battles of a Prince who rejects riches and power, risks insanity and death, in a quest to find ultimate freedom.

Imprisoned in the Palace by his father, the time fruits when a naïve Siddhartha awakens to the realities of the world, and escapes in search of a deeper meaning to life. His devious, look-alike, unrelenting alter ego, Mara, presents the greatest obstacle, thwarting Siddhartha at every possible opportunity. Siddhartha also confronts barbaric Brahmin Priests, a war-raging King and evil spirits before he attempts harsh austerities and starvation. Barely escaping madness and death, Siddhartha strengthens himself for his illustrious battle with Mara, when only one will survive.

ISBN 978-0-6487941-0-3

Open Your Eyes, Dude

Romantic Comedy

Relaxing at the beach before a seminar with the world's most renown, yet reclusive eye surgeon, playboy doctor Tom has been given an ultimative - stay a bachelor stuck in his boring job or join an elite group of doctors keen to be in the Senate. However, he has just one week to find a wife who will enhance his public image. When he meets secretive, gentle new-ager Tricia in the surf, she intrigues him and then escapes his advances before he can discover more. He follows her but confronts the scheming tricks of a jealous neurosurgeon, and his own selfish ways. Finally he seduces her for one night, and actually finds that he is falling in love with her. But what happens when she discovers his original motivation?

ISBN 978-0-6488482-5-7

Barred Engagement

Crime Thriller, Romance

Travis and Janie are lovers from high school, engaged to be married, with her father welcoming Travis more than his own son. But when they find out Travis has a different real last name, all hell breaks loose. With her father threatening to kill Travis if they tried to marry, Janie cancels the marriage to save Travis, but he won't give up that easily. Despite the danger, a resolute Travis must fight not only for his love, but for his life. And little did he expect to find out how Janie's father was connected to his parent's deaths.

ISBN 978-0-6487941-8-9

Love, Mysterious

Fantasy Romantic Comedy

Cupid's top marriage agent from who-knows-where, Kolby has a massive problem. His job – and Cupid's life - are on the line unless Kolby can fulfill the hardest of all assignments! Rumor has it the couple were Romeo & Juliet, Anthony & Cleopatra, plus believe it or not - Adam & Eve. But when there's a time limit on the love arrow's potion, things don't always work out the way you'd like. He shot the greatest two soul mates as little kids, but the girl was born to the wrong parents and moved halfway around the world. Kolby must get them back together and make sure they stay that way. He's in a race against time to save Cupid and Love on Earth. And if that wasn't enough, he also struggles with another love agenda of his own.

ISBN 978-0-6487941-6-5

Mick, a kid who fought

Coming-of-age Drama

Brought up by a immigrant Polish father who never "stirs a tiger", quiet Mick shies away from any confrontation, even when he's denied his well earned High School award with a desperately needed scholarship by a jealous teacher. Yet after the girl he loves calls him a loser, Mick chooses to identify with his freedom fighting grandfather who died rocking too many boats. Will Mick learn to fight against bullies and win back his love, or will his father prevent him?

ISBN 978-0-6488482-3-3

Vicki in Viewland

Fantasy Adventure Animation Comedy Spoof

ALICE IN WONDERLAND meets THE WIZARD OF OZ in the land of foolish views.

A 13-year-old's crush on the paper boy has her falling head over heels, landing in the fantasy world of Viewland where the vicious President labels her a terrorist and tries to annihilate her. Aided by a five foot tall Bluejay and Count Alf the Fourteenth, she confronts foolish view after view until she must defeat the President in order to return home. Yet is the President the only one she must battle? Or is there someone more ominous who awaits her?

ISBN 978-0-6488482-7-1

For Life

Drama

For years Taylor, the president of a leading euthanasia group, has pumped all his energy and drive into his "mission". But now he must confront the reality of his own mother's illness and face-off with his estranged anti-euthanasia daughter, who holds power of attorney and medical decisions for her grandmother. Fearing the worst of her hated father, she does what she can to stop Taylor, yet his buddies also come knocking on her grandmother's door. Meanwhile Taylor's incestuous sister-in-law plays her sexual games and plans what to do with her share of the inheritance.

ISBN 978-0-6487941-7-2

Security Act 2070

Thriller Drama Sci-fi

Sixty years in the future, materialism reigns supreme in America, "One nation under Money". Those who protest the accepted creed are declared fanatical enemies of the State. After losing his parents and his love, the death of his brother tips Buddy over the edge into the "disease" which pits him against the culture. Swiftly suppressing his protest, the authorities commit him to a mental hospital where a doctor seeks a live specimen for research.

ISBN 978-0-6488482-1-9

Get Updated, System's Archaic

Coming-of-age Dramedy

Ken and Aaron's childhood sibling rivalry continues as adults. Though Aaron tries to make it good, even saving Ken's life, Ken's hatred stays. When Aaron shows up for a family reunion with Rahula, a half-Asian adopted son, Ken's prejudice grows, and multiplies a hundred-fold when Rahula and Ken's daughter fall for each other. Can the past be healed or will the reunion tear the family further apart?

ISBN 978-0-6488482-0-2

The Kalama Awakening

Cult Drama

On a spiritual quest, young naive Julie's longing for freedom and devotion makes her an easy target for a cult Guru's lust and her boyfriend's willingness to trade her for power and fame. Isolated and drugged, she ends up in a nightmare of betrayal and manipulation, yet resists being brainwashed into submission and becoming the Guru's sex slave. Sage, an ex-devotee, knows the evils that await and risks his life to rescue her. Yet he also becomes caught in the Guru's web and it's up to Julie whether she can save both of them.

ISBN 978-0-6488482-6-4

Leaves fall

Fantasy Dramedy

In a world where soulmates meet, an inept fellow has failed constantly for over 300 years. Even when his true love appears, rather than being ecstatic to see him, she yearns for her past life as a celibate nun. Clever, quick and breaking the rules, she outfoxes mating attempts, not realizing that they are an eternal pair. So what happens when a ninety year old nun, celibate all her life, dies and is spontaneously reborn as a young beautiful woman in a world where everyone meets their true mate?

ISBN 978-0-6488482-2-6

Another Chance

Drama Thriller

Brad, a star High School quarterback/Valedictorian, turns bad, becoming a local drug lord. Despite his wrong ways, he longs for the approval of his virtuous father. When Brad finally entices his father into his nightmare world, a surprised and shocked Brad watches his Dad out perform his own evil ways. When he awakens from his hell, he tries to reform and plans to marry a homely, innocent Librarian whom he truly loves - but will his fate allow this?

ISBN 978-0-6488482-4-0

The Burden of Angels

Fantasy Comedy Short

God warns goofy Humphrey, he's on the verge of failing Angel School when an elite class of angels head to earth to help major catastrophes, yet poor Humphrey plans to aid just one man who lost a piece of paper.

ISBN 978-0-6488482-9-5