GET UPDATED, SYSTEM'S ARCHAIC

by

Steve Weissman

Copyright © 2020 Steve Weissman

All rights reserved.

ISBN: 978-0-6488482-0-2

Computer photo by Museums Victoria.

Many thanks to Museums Victoria for sharing their work on Unsplash.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 - The Fight

Chapter 2 - Pacifist

Chapter 3 - The Bike

Chapter 4 - Rahula

Chapter 5 - Not like the theatre

Chapter 6 - The Reunion

Chapter 7 - Pawn

Chapter 8 - Bring it down

Chapter 9 - Joanna & Stevie

Chapter 10 - Car trunk

Chapter 11 - Cef

Chapter 12 - Oh, yes

Chapter 13 - Happy Anniversary

Chapter 14 - Family

Chapter 15 - Yesterday!

Chapter 16 - Cabins

Chapter 17 - It's hard enough

Chapter 18 - Great hook up here

Chapter 19 - Zoe

Chapter 20 - 1st Photo shoot

Chapter 21 - A bit blue

Chapter 22 - Imagine

Chapter 23 - Blake

Chapter 24 - Help!

Chapter 25 - Didn't realize

Chapter 26 - Decisions

Chapter 27 - Time out

Chapter 28 - Sure

Chapter 29 - Pleasant landing

Chapter 30 - I have been hard

Chapter 31 - The party begins

Chapter 32 - System's archaic

Chapter 33 - Going back

Chapter 34 - Password protected area

Chapter 35 - Anika

Chapter 36 - You'll be sorry

Chapter 37 - My daughter

Chapter 38 - 3's a crowd

Chapter 39 - Harmless

Chapter 40 - Joanna takes over

Chapter 41 - The Jetty mess

Chapter 42 - Kenny

Chapter 43 - Uh-oh

Chapter 44 - Check on Rahula

Chapter 45 - Surprise

Chapter 46 - The Watch

Chapter 47 - Squirrels

Chapter 48 - Next

Chapter 49 - Sara's plan

Chapter 50 - Men!

Chapter 51 - New operating system

Chapter 52 - The Rematch

Chapter 53 - Perfect

About the Author

Steve's 13 stories

* * * * *

Chapter 1 - The Fight

* * * * *

Suburban home backyard.

Sam's rough large hands hold a pair of boxing gloves.

Sam, "Three-minute rounds."

He slides the gloves on two small hands, "No hitting below the belt."

He ties the laces, "Knockout means you're down for ten."

Sam's hands reach down for a second pair of gloves.

The petite hand of Sara restrains them.

Sara, "But honey, this will teach them violence solves problems. And Kenny's so much bigger. Can't we--"

Sam, "Sometimes we have to settle things a man's way."

Sam, 41, balding, stocky and clearly not liking the challenge to his authority, looks at the sensitive face and pleading eyes of his wife, Sara, 39, matronly.

Irritated, he leads her aside, spits out his reasoning in hushed tones, "Aaron's agile. If he gets beat, it'll shut his mouth. If Kenny loses, he'll cease being a bully."

Sara, "But I don't think it will solve the problem, why don't we call the--"

Sam, "Shrink! Come on Sara, it's just healthy sibling rivalry! Why can't you trust me?"

Sara sighs, nods.

Sam returns to the boys while Sara sadly shakes her head.

Sam, "TKO means injury, fight's finished."

He slides gloves on two other small hands, "Wait until the bell."

He ties the laces, "You two ready?"

Ken, 13, bounces up and down, his five feet seven inches of chubby, adolescent fat ripples.

Ken, "I'll crush him."

Ken glowers at Aaron, 11, wiry, intense, struts his five feet two inches of rock-hard, coordinated body, bangs his gloves together.

Aaron, "If you can catch me!"

Sam shoots a quick look at Sara, bellows, "Only way to end the bedroom ruckuses once and for all."

Sam pulls out an instamatic Kodak camera, "Now, a pre-fight photo - just like the pros. Get ready."

The boys pose in true boxing form.

Sam, "One, two, three. Okay, got it."

Sam puts down the camera, "Final fight. Winner takes the title and that'll be it. No re-fights, this is it. Right?"

Aaron, "Yup."

Ken, "My title."

Ken sneers at Aaron.

Sam, "And a photo at the end, showing the winner, then it's clear, right?"

Aaron, "Right."

Ken, "I'm gonna teach you respect!"

Sam nods confidently to Sara, who chews her lip anxiously.

She covers the eyes of three-year-old baby brother, Cef, who sucks a lollypop.

He pulls her hand away indignantly, "Big boy now - no sissy!"

The two square off.

Behind Ken, sunlight filters through dense foliage.

Aaron squints.

Sam, "Aaron, is the sun in your eyes?"

Aaron, "I won't be standing still."

Sam, "Okay, get ready."

Adrenaline pumps, gloves up, ready.

The bell rings.

Ken, heavy, flatfooted, swings madly.

Aaron ducks, dances around him so that Ken faces the sun.

Ken swings again, knocks Aaron's gloves.

Ken stomps out of the glare, swings wildly into thin air as Aaron side steps.

Aaron's glove shoots straight into Ken's stomach with all the might of his 100 pounds.

Ken keels over and vomits.

Sam, "That's it, TKO! Aaron wins!"

Ken clutches his gut, cries bitter tears.

A proud Aaron glances at Ken with concern but relief.

Cef, "Aaron champ, Aaron champ!"

Sara runs to Ken and showers motherly affection.

Ken rejects her, pulls away.

Cef offers Aaron his lollypop and beams.

Aaron nods.

Cef shoves it in Aaron's mouth.

Sam pulls off one of Aaron's gloves.

Aaron pulls out the lollipop, regains his victory pride.

Aaron, "I won, Kenny, no more pushing me around."

A bent over, repulsed Ken glares at Aaron.

Sam, "You agreed to the rules, Kenny, no sulking. Now the victory photo."

Aaron lifts the lollipop high like a trophy, stands proud.

Ken rubs his tender stomach, and sneers.

Click.

* * * * *

Chapter 2 - Pacifist

* * * * *

Two years later.

Cef, now 5, runs into the kitchen, waving the fight photo, "Mommy?"

Sara, wearing a full apron, turns from homemade brownies, "Yes?"

Cef, "Where are the boxing gloves? Aaron and Kenny had them - see!"

Sara reaches for the photo just as a slimmed down, pimply Ken bursts in the back door.

Cef runs to Ken with the photo, "Look, Kenny. Where are the boxing gloves? I wanna learn how to fight!"

Ken snatches the photo from Cef, "Fighting is for jocks and people without brains! I'm a pacifist."

Ken throws the photo in the trashcan, as he stomps to the hallway.

Sara gives a pained expression and follows, "Kenny, I baked some of your favorite brownies."

Cef retrieves the photo, just as a pimple free, sweat soaked Aaron enters.

He flops down in a chair, removes his cross-country sneakers.

Adoring Cef thrusts out the photo, "Teach me to fight like you! I wanna be a champ, too!"

Aaron takes the photo, ruffles Cef's hair.

Aaron, "Sometimes being the champ doesn't solve anything, Cef. Why don't you ask Dad? I learned from him."

Cef, "What's a jock?"

Ken strides in with Sara following, "Aaron's one - all brawn, no brains."

Sara, "Kenny! You watch your tongue or I'll tell your--"

Kenny suddenly hugs Sara, "My favorite - brownies! You're the best mom in the world."

Ken grabs a brownie and opens the door.

Sara glows with the praise as Aaron gets up, heads towards the hall.

Ken, "Hurry up or you'll never catch up to me on that old three speed."

Aaron turns back, "You challenging me?"

Cef pulls on Sara's apron, "Mom, what's a pacifist?"

Sara, "Ken, will you stop at the drug--"

Ken, "Ask Aaron."

He turns to Aaron, "Yeah, no hope you'll catch me."

Aaron, "You're on."

* * * * *

Chapter 3 - The Bike

* * * * *

Aaron pushes hard on the pedals on his three-speed as he pulls closer to a puffing Ken who struggles up a street hill on his new racing bike.

Ominous clouds gather, leaves swirl, tree branches dance.

Aaron peers up at the clouds, shouts, "Thunderstorm means lightning!"

Ken, "Rubber tires."

Aaron, "But, Daddy said--"

Ken, "Daddy... Mommy's boy!"

Aaron frowns, zooms ahead of Ken, who's almost at the top of the hill, "Kenny--"

A lightening bolt cuts through the black sky.

Four seconds later the rolling of loud thunder.

Aaron, "It's only four seconds away! I'm getting off!"

Ken, "Sissy."

A second bolt brightens the sky.

Two seconds later, thunder.

Aaron jumps off his bike and tries to block Ken's path, "Kenny, get off, get off!"

Ken, "I'll mow you down."

Aaron, "Kenny!"

Ken veers to miss Aaron.

Aaron jumps and knocks Ken down.

Ken screams as his left leg crumples beneath him with a snap.

The broken bone pierces the flesh.

Ken screams, "Shit, ow, my leg!"

Aaron hurriedly drags Ken's bike away, races back to Ken.

A flash.

Lightning strikes Ken's bike.

The impact bowls Aaron to the ground.

The bike lies in a mangled mess.

Ken stares at it.

Aaron scrambles over to Ken who shoves him away.

Ken, "Don't touch me, you shit head!"

Devastated, Aaron races off.

Aaron, "I'll get help."

* * * * *

Chapter 4 - Rahula

* * * * *

Sri Lanka - 25 years later.

Aaron, 38, surgeon, handsome, slim, scrambles urgently through the debris of a hurricane devastated village.

Aaron, "Anyone need help! Can anyone hear me?"

* * * * *

A mixed Sri Lankan/Western boy, Rahula, 16, bloody head, lies surrounded by the mangled remains of a home.

The marble, teak debris and ceramic roofing reveal the home used to be a mansion.

Rahula's eyes convey his misery.

He hears Aaron's voice, "Rahula! Rahula, where are you?"

He pulls himself towards a chain that glistens, half buried in the rubble.

He grabs it.

A Buddha pendant.

He clutches it tightly as he loses consciousness.

* * * * *

Aaron searches through the devastation.

Dawn's voice, "Over here, Aaron. Rahula's alive."

Aaron heads towards his attractive, blonde wife, Dawn, 38, physiotherapist, who feels Rahula's pulse.

Aaron checks Rahula's bloody head, his chest, arms, hips and sees the jutting bones of his broken legs.

His face assumes a painful expression.

Rahula opens his eyes, looks up at them with hope, "Doctor, my family?"

Dawn chokes back tears as she shakes her head.

Rahula closes his eyes.

Tears flow down his cheek.

* * * * *

Bandaged people lie in hospital beds as Sri Lankan nurses hurry to and fro.

Dawn sits, holding an unconscious Rahula's hand.

Casts enclose both legs and a bandage wraps around his head.

Aaron, in doctor's clothes, approaches silently.

Dawn turns to him, questioningly.

Aaron, "He'll be fine. How are you?"

Her eyes glisten, "His whole family..."

Tears fall.

Aaron slips his arm around her.

Dawn, "I... I want to adopt him. He's more like a nephew than a second cousin. Sally and I were like sisters."

Aaron, "He's sixteen. It'll be his choice, not ours."

Rahula opens his eyes, rolls his head towards Aaron.

Aaron, "Hey."

Rahula, "Will I walk?"

Aaron, "Without a limp."

* * * * *

Chapter 5 - Not like the theatre

* * * * *

Driveway, Sara and Sam's home, USA.

Ken, 40, a more handsome man than when an adolescent, but pudgy around the middle, walks with a permanent limp towards the house carrying a bagful of groceries.

* * * * *

In the kitchen, Sara, slim and attractive for 66, wears a full apron and places blonde brownies in a Pyrex container.

Ken enters, gives a strained smile, unpacks the grocery bag full of healthy salad fixings and low fat dressing.

Ken, "Not on my diet, Mom. My doctor will kill me before I have a chance to have a heart attack."

Sara, "Oh, Ken, one won't harm you."

Ken, "Then why don't you eat one?"

Ken hugs her.

Sara looks at him with a hurt expression, "Stevie and Joanna love them."

Ken opens the fridge.

Chockablock full with labeled leftovers containers.

He shifts them around to make space, "And Cef."

Sara brightens.

Ken scowls into the fridge, "Spends more time at my place than his own."

Sara, "Great that he got that teaching job at Laura's school."

Sam, bald, grey and thirty extra pounds, swaggers in, grabs a brownie, and chomps away.

Sara puts the lid on quickly, "They're for Stevie, Joanna and Cef."

Sam picks up a dressing bottle, peers at it with distaste, "No fat, no flavor."

He pokes Ken's gut, "You've put on a bit, haven't you?"

Ken, "You're the one to talk. At least I'm on a diet."

Ken and Sam drift out as Sara dutifully places everything in the fridge.

Ken, "Damn desk job. Not like the theatre."

* * * * *

Chapter 6 - The Reunion

* * * * *

Ken and Sam walk into the homey living room.

Sam, "If you'd quit the theatre when I first suggested, you'd probably have the kid's college and your own retirement covered by now."

Sam flops down in a rocker recliner as Ken opens a briefcase.

Ken, "Laura's still not happy about--"

Sam, "You're finally putting the family before--"

Ken, "I've got the pamphlet for the reunion. Do you want to see it?"

Sam relaxes back.

Ken hands him a brochure and looks over his shoulder, "Lake, cabins, restaurant, rooms for guests, forest paths. Only a couple hours drive from my place. Be perfect in early September."

Sara enters, looks over Sam's other shoulder, "Oh, cute log cabins."

Sam, "It's our forty-fifth. I wasn't thinking rustic."

Ken, "Got it covered. Two lakeside A-frame cottages, each with two bedrooms upstairs, one downstairs, bathrooms, kitchen and living room."

Sam, "It's our anniversary - I'm not sharing--"

Ken, "Cabins for Cef, Aaron and Dawn."

Sara, "How big are the cabins? They have a son--"

Shocked, Ken stares at her.

Sam scowls.

Ken gives a sarcastic smile, "Dawn had a baby? So much for her 'too many children in the world.'"

Sam, "A very big one. He's seventeen."

Ken, "He's not a--"

Sam, "Yes, Sri Lankan."

Sara, "Sam, please don't always say it like that. He lost his family--"

Sam grumbles under his breath.

Ken, "Same old Dawn. Another cabin."

Sara, "He's Dawn's second cousin."

Ken, "So, that's why Dawn dragged Aaron over there."

Sara darts an impatient look at Ken.

Sara, "Aaron and Dawn do very important work. Rahula's father was the head physician--"

Sam thumps his hand on the brochure, "Can we get back to the reunion?"

Sara, "Cef could share with Rahula. It'd give him a chance to get to know family."

Sam abruptly pulls the recliner to upright position, "He's Dawn's family, not ours."

Sara gives Sam a challenging expression, "Aaron adopted Rahula, so legally--"

Ken, "Cef might bring a date."

Ken nods to Sam, indicating his alliance with him.

Sara hides her frustration as Sam smiles at Ken.

Ken points to the map, "I'll book these two for Aaron, Dawn and... the boy."

Ken points to two cabins, far from the lake, on the other side of a building labeled RESTAURANT/ACTIVITIES.

He moves his finger to the two lakeside cottages and one of three cabins close to them, "These are for Cef and us."

Sara, "But there are three together here."

Sam and Ken turn to her with a "this is final" look.

Sara returns it with a pitying expression.

She walks towards the kitchen, "Well, we can welcome him into the family before we get to the lake."

Ken frowns as she disappears into the kitchen.

Sara, "Glad you have a big house, Ken."

Ken grumbles, "Dawn makes Aaron's presence almost bearable."

Sam gives Ken a stern look of fatherly disapproval, "Aaron's your brother. When are you two going to--"

Ken, "But some half breed orphan?"

Sam sighs, "Yes..."

* * * * *

Chapter 7 - Pawn

* * * * *

Aaron and Dawn's home, Sri Lanka.

Aaron outmatches a friend as they spar Martial Arts.

They stop, bow to each other.

Aaron grabs a towel, wipes his face, walks around the house to another open area.

Dawn coaxes Rahula, minus casts, who walks hesitatingly with two walking sticks near a small cottage, surrounded by tropical plants and palm trees.

Aaron looks on anxiously.

Dawn, "You'll have to strengthen the muscles each day."

Rahula, "Whatever it takes."

He stops walking, looks at Dawn and Aaron courageously, "Then you can go to America and not worry about me."

Dawn, "You're coming with us."

Rahula, "But, Aaron's family may not want a stranger and..."

He looks down, embarrassed.

Dawn hugs him, "You're our son now."

Aaron, "I have three tickets already."

Rahula brightens, "How long before we go?"

Aaron puts his arm around Rahula, "Don't you worry. Three months is plenty of time. Exercise is the key. You've got the best physiotherapist in the world."

Dawn, "You wouldn't be a little prejudiced, would you?"

Aaron, "Me? Not a bone in my body."

Dawn, "We're only as good as the surgeon."

They laugh, hug each other.

Rahula wobbles, grabs Aaron's arm that holds him firmly while Dawn pulls up a chair.

Dawn, "Rest a little."

Rahula lowers down, "Why did you become a doctor?"

Aaron's face becomes more serious, "Let me tell you about my brother, Kenny."

Dawn frowns, catches Aaron's eyes, "Do you have to?"

Aaron, "I don't want Rahula to become a pawn for him to get back at me."

Rahula looks at him questioningly.

Dawn, "Why worry Rahula needlessly? Kenny may be difficult but I'm sure he's not prejudiced."

* * * * *

Chapter 8 - Bring it down

* * * * *

Sam and Sara's garage - three months later.

Sara points at Ken's mangled bike hangs from the ceiling in the loft, "Bring it down."

Sam adjusts a ladder under the bike, "Dear, are you sure you--"

Sara stands determined, "Bring it down. I'm not going to have Ken spoil our anniversary."

* * * * *

Chapter 9 - Joanna & Stevie

* * * * *

Ken's living room.

Framed posters of Kenny and Laura Evan's opening night plays, mixed with Kenny Evan's "Playwright of the Year" awards, plaster the wall.

Joanna, 16 going on 19, a cute blonde, bare midriff, mini skirt, rushes in excitedly, "When did Mom go to the airport?"

Ken lounges in a chair, no slimmer than three months earlier, frowns, keeps his eyes glued to the TV guide, "The one night they get to the playoffs!"

He gets up, throws the TV guide down, does a double take at Joanna, "You got some jeans?"

Joanna, "I wore the same skirt last week."

Ken, "Last week isn't today."

Joanna looks at him as if he's crazy.

The sound of a car pulling in the driveway.

Joanna brightens, disappears down the stairs of the split-level home.

* * * * *

Joanna swings open the front door.

Joanna's mother, Laura, an attractive 38, similar to Joanna, holds hands with a thrilled, flushed Sara.

They enter.

Sara, "Joanna - my, my, how you've grown! Look at those beautiful legs."

Joanna and Sara hug.

Ken descends the stairs, "I'd rather not see so much of them."

Sara, "Where's Stevie?"

* * * * *

Stevie, a reluctant, nerdy thirteen-year-old, sits glued to his computer in his high tech room.

Laura's voice, "Stevie! Nana and Poppa are here!"

Stevie shakes his head as he zaps another alien warship.

Laura's voice, "Stevie! Nana brought you blonde brownies!"

Stevie's eyes widen.

He mouths, "blonde brownies" and zips out the door, banging into the doorframe.

Stevie zooms down the stairs, "Hi, Nana!"

Sara gives him a hug and a sloppy kiss on the cheek.

He wipes it off as she pulls out a Pyrex container and hands it to him.

He races off.

* * * * *

Chapter 10 - Car trunk

* * * * *

Ken peers out the door as he gives Sara a quick hug, "Hi, Mom. Better go help Dad."

Sam, "Hey, Kenny!"

Ken steps out, "Ken."

Sam, "You'll always be Kenny to me."

Ken peers at two cars in the driveway, "I thought you were going to fly in. Why'd you drive?"

Ken goes to open the car trunk.

Sam, "No! No, don't open it!"

Ken, "Huh? You have a dead body in there?"

Sam, "You never know. The suitcases are in the back seat."

Ken shakes his head, "Since when?"

* * * * *

Chapter 11 - Cef

* * * * *

Sam walks to the doorway, turns back, "Looks like your diet didn't work."

Ken lugs in two suitcases, "Well, the next one will. Laura gave me a set of weights for my birthday."

Sam, "You hate--"

Laura, "He loves exercise. Don't continue negative thought programming."

Sam looks at Ken in astonishment.

Ken, "I love exercise, I love exercise."

Ken whispers to Sam, "When other people do it."

Laura, "Joanna, please get the juggling box out for Uncle Cef."

* * * * *

Cef, 32, shaggy hair, muscular, very handsome, juggles rings in the family room.

Laura stands, watching Cef a little too intensely.

Sprawled on a couch, Ken and Joanna take it in.

Cef quickly throws a ring to Laura.

They do a twosome, their faces bright.

Ken sits up straight, gives a sarcastic smile, "You guys make a great team. Anyone would think you practice together as a couple."

Laura drops a ring.

She frowns towards Ken, leaves the room.

Joanna jumps up, "Juggle with me, Cef."

Cef, "You able to keep up with me?"

Joanna, "For sure, all the cheerleaders are into them. We're going to use rings in the next game!"

Impressed, Cef tosses rings to her.

* * * * *

Chapter 12 - Oh, yes

* * * * *

In the adjoining Living Room, Sam and Sara stand vigil at the window.

A car beeps.

Sam scrambles down the stairs, with Sara close behind.

The doorbell chimes.

Sam swings the door open.

Aaron stands arm in arm with Dawn.

Rahula waits nervously behind them.

Sam gives Aaron a long bear hug as Sara hugs Dawn.

Sam, "You look great. It's been too long."

Aaron, "How's the hip?"

Sam, "Transformed my life."

A tearful Sara waits expectantly.

Aaron, "Mom, as beautiful as ever."

They embrace as Sam hugs Dawn.

Aaron turns to Rahula, "This is Rahula."

Sam, "Oh, yes... the boy."

Rahula steps forward shyly.

Sam thrusts his hand out, gives Rahula a curt shake and quickly grabs Dawn's hand.

Sam, "Come see everyone, Dawn - it's been years."

He pulls her up the stairs as Dawn looks back helplessly, "I still do those exercises you gave me. They're great."

They disappear into the living room.

Rahula turns to Sara who smiles a truly welcoming smile.

He relaxes, puts his hands prayer like to his face in an Eastern salutation of respect, "Grandmother, I have heard so much about your kindness."

Sara hugs a surprised Rahula, "You just call me, Nana. Aaron didn't tell me how handsome you are."

Sara takes Rahula's hand and leads him away, "Aaron, what stories have you made up about me?"

Aaron, "Only the truth."

* * * * *

Chapter 13 - Happy Anniversary

* * * * *

Ken watches Cef give Dawn a quick hug and go back to juggling with Joanna.

Sam, "Where's Laura?"

Ken, "Kitchen."

Sam walks out, "Laura! You got drinks for Aaron, Dawn and... the boy?"

Dawn turns to Ken who eagerly steps forward, hugs her longer than is polite, strokes her back.

She pulls away.

Ken, "As bright and beautiful as the first time I saw you."

Dawn, "A line from your new play?"

Ken, "The theatre's closed."

Dawn, "Oh, I'm sorry... I didn't know. The last couple years have been so intense..."

A long moment of silence.

Dawn, "But you and Laura loved..."

Ken's gaze makes her more uncomfortable as she searches for something to say.

Dawn, "How's your leg?"

Ken, "Same."

Dawn, "Do you do the exercises?"

Ken, "I need a coach. Maybe you could... show me more enjoyable ones. Aaron would just love... for you to help me."

He smiles at her sexily.

She smiles awkwardly back.

Sara enters with a shy Rahula.

Aaron follows.

Ken abruptly turns away, searches for the TV remote control.

Feeling helplessly out of place, Rahula looks down.

Aaron puts a protecting arm around his shoulders.

Ken flicks on the TV, flops down in a chair, watches sports commentators blare their expert opinions, "Came just in time for the game."

Sara and Aaron stare at Ken's unwavering attention to the TV.

Aaron shakes his head sadly.

Sara, "Aaron hasn't seen you for four years!"

Ken, "And we haven't been in the playoffs for five. Plenty of time to catch up later."

Rahula looks at a resigned Aaron who gives a reassuring look to Sara and Dawn.

Disgusted, Dawn exits to the kitchen.

Sara pulls Rahula over toward Cef and Joanna just as Joanna jumps to catch a flying ring.

Her skirt and shirt slide high.

The unexpected flesh takes away Rahula's breath.

She lands, laughs.

He looks down quickly.

Cef catches all the other rings in one hand as Aaron smiles broadly and heads towards him.

Aaron, "Cef! Great to see you."

Ready to hug him, Aaron meets with a surprise extended hand.

He briefly stares at it, grasps it heartily and shakes.

Cef avoids Aaron's eyes, much to Aaron's surprise, "Yeah. Ditto. I'll get some drinks for you guys."

Cef leaves a stunned Aaron.

Sara pats Aaron on the hand and follows Cef.

Aaron turns back in time to see Rahula raise his head to meet Joanna's eyes.

She smiles.

Rahula blushes, looks away.

Aaron, "What a difference four years make. Joanna, this is Rahula."

Joanna's silence is deafening.

Aaron smiles.

Pulling herself together, Joanna smiles, "How do they say hello in Sri Lanka?"

Rahula brings his hands in a prayer salutation and slightly bows.

His wide grin flashes, "Hello, Joanna."

Joanna imitates him with her hands, "Hi, Rahula."

A long moment as they both gaze at each other.

Joanna, "Come meet Stevie. He's into computers."

Aaron smiles as Joanna leads Rahula up the hall.

* * * * *

Sam, Sara, Cef, Dawn and Laura sit around the kitchen table with drinks as Aaron enters.

Sam, "When're you going to let Aaron come back home?"

Dawn's mouth drops open.

Aaron looks at Dawn affectionately, "We like Sri Lanka. Paradise with a purpose."

Sam, "Yeah, well, we miss you. Four years is too long to go between visits."

Aaron reaches for a chair as Cef picks up his beer and abruptly gets up.

Cef, "Game's on."

He passes a bewildered Aaron.

A flustered Laura gets up, "Hungry Aaron?"

Aaron shakes his head.

Breaking out of it, he smiles at Laura, "You're looking great. And Joanna has really shot up."

Laura, "Yes."

Aaron hugs her.

Laura avoids his eyes, "Where's the--"

Dawn, "His name is Rahula."

Aaron, "Joanna took him to meet Stevie."

Laura, "Oh dear."

Laura races out.

Dawn gives Aaron a "What the hell is going on here?" look.

Aaron shakes his head sadly, flops down, "We're beat. Where're we sacking out? Basement, as usual?"

Sara stares at Sam in disgust.

Sam, "Ken didn't want you to be disturbed after the long flight. I booked you into the nearby Travelodge."

Aaron stares at him.

Sara looks at Aaron with pleading eyes.

Aaron, "So kind of him. I guess we'll go check it out. Come on, Dawn."

Sam clasps his arm as Aaron gets up to leave, "It's great to see you. Thanks for coming so far for our anniversary."

Aaron, "Yeah, happy anniversary."

* * * * *

Chapter 14 - Family

* * * * *

Large motel room, with a separate bedroom.

Dawn lies in bed, while Aaron walks back and forth.

Aaron, "Great anniversary celebration it'll be now that Ken's got allies."

Dawn, "Honey, don't jump to conclusions. Maybe it was just the playoffs."

* * * * *

In the living area, Rahula sits on the couch, listening.

Aaron, "I should have told Rahula more."

Rahula nods in agreement.

Dawn, "You're probably worrying needlessly. Let's get some sleep."

Dawn turns off the bedside light.

* * * * *

Later.

Dawn sleeps.

Aaron silently slips out of bed, tiptoes out to Rahula who lies on the couch, looking up at the ceiling.

He turns to Aaron.

Aaron sits down, "Jet-lagged, too, huh?"

Rahula, "Yes."

Rahula sits up.

Aaron, "It wasn't such a great welcome to America. Your family was so kind to us when we arrived in Sri Lanka."

Rahula, "Your mother radiates kindness. And Joanna..."

Rahula takes a deep breath.

Aaron smiles.

Rahula, "...is more beautiful than I ever imagined... a cousin... would be. Stevie's brilliant and promised to teach me more on the computer."

Aaron clears his throat, fiddles with his pajama coat, "Did you notice how Ken limps?"

Rahula nods.

Aaron, "The doctor who set his broken leg did a poor job. It was my fault he broke it... I thought I saved his life. He rejects my version."

Rahula, "I'd prefer a limp to death. Thank you for giving me what you could not give to your brother."

Aaron, "I didn't expect them to treat you like they did... I'm sorry."

Rahula, "They don't hurt me... They only hurt themselves."

Aaron, "How can you be so forgiving?"

Rahula, "My father taught me to treat everyone like my own family."

Aaron, "He didn't have a brother."

* * * * *

Chapter 15 - Yesterday!

* * * * *

Joanna drapes clothes in front of her, peers in her full length mirror.

An open suitcase lies on her bed, clothes in and out, scattered over her bed, thrown on the floor.

She frowns at her image, throws another aside.

She fumbles through a drawer, pulls out a lacey bra, smiles and replaces a sports bra in her suitcase.

Ken's voice, "Joanna, half an hour."

She turns to her suitcase with shock, "Daddy, no way. An hour."

Ken sticks his head in, sees the mess, frowns, "You told me yesterday you were packed already."

Joanna, "That was yesterday!"

* * * * *

In a mall, Joanna and Sara head towards a small fashion store.

Sara, "I'm paying, get whatever you want."

Joanna, "Oh, thank you so much, Nana. My clothes are just not--"

Sara, "He is handsome, isn't he?"

Joanna stops, shocked

Sara smiles.

Joanna hugs her.

She admires an embroidered, Eastern theme dress in the window as they enter.

* * * * *

Chapter 16 - Cabins

* * * * *

The Lake Resort.

Aaron, Dawn and Rahula lug their suitcases, trudge up a track toward two log cabins, set up on a hill overlooking the lake, restaurant and other cottages and cabins.

On the other side of the lake, mountains stretch up to clouds.

Dawn, "Well, maybe the other two cabins--"

Aaron, "This is America, damn it. My brothers claim to be liberal Democrats!"

Dawn, "...were already booked?"

Aaron, "Give me a break. Let's call a spade a spade."

Rahula looks at Aaron anxiously.

He sets down his suitcase, turns and soaks in the glorious view.

Aaron and Dawn continue.

They reach their cabin.

Aaron angrily bangs down his and Dawn's suitcases, turns.

He spots Rahula still gazing at the view.

Aaron, "As if he hasn't suffered enough."

Dawn looks at him long, "Him... or you?"

Aaron, "Now what is that supposed to mean?"

Dawn, "Honey, it's your parents' forty-fifth. We just have to get through these two days."

Aaron nods, hugs her.

Rahula turns.

Pleased with their embrace, he picks up his suitcase, walks toward their warm smiles, "Those who have never seen the view from the hillside know nothing of its beauty."

Aaron takes in the expansive view that backdrops Rahula, "Yes, indeed. A magnificent view."

Aaron gives a set of keys to Dawn, shakes another set at Rahula, "Let's see your cabin next door."

They climb the steep path to the other cabin.

Aaron, "You be okay on your own? We could ask if they have an extra bed for our cabin."

Rahula, "My father always said that it's our choice to be lonely or enjoy solitude. I'll embrace solitude."

Aaron notices Cef's car pulling into the parking lot, "There's Cef now. You've got a bird's eye view of everything here."

Aaron heads back.

Rahula watches Cef's car below.

Laura and Cef emerge from the front.

Stevie, clutching a computer case tightly, jumps out the back.

Rahula looks down at his Western clothes, pulls his shirt out.

He goes inside.

* * * * *

Chapter 17 - It's hard enough

* * * * *

In loose pants and long Eastern top, happy and at ease, Rahula stands in a Kung Fu pose in a flat area near his cabin.

He gracefully glides until he faces the panorama.

He stops, relaxes the pose, drawn to the sight below.

Cef and Laura head towards Cef's cabin.

They look at each other lovingly as Cef opens the door.

They disappear inside, close the curtains.

Rahula shakes his head.

He hears Aaron, "Hey, Rahula, you ready to go?"

Rahula turns to see Aaron staring open mouthed at him.

Aaron, "You better change and meet us down there."

Rahula, "But these are new, and you know I usually wear--"

Aaron, "It only draws attention to--"

Rahula, "Who I am."

Aaron, "Please Rahula, it's hard enough."

Dawn's voice, "Aaron, Rahula, where are you guys?"

Aaron, "Up here."

Aaron turns to Rahula with a stern, impatient expression.

Rahula, "Which is why I must remember who I am. Trying to be who I'm not makes it harder for me. I need to remember everything that has meaning to me."

Dawn draws near.

Aaron, "You can't forget in a weekend."

Rahula, "Are you sure?"

Dawn, "Rahula, what an absolutely divine outfit. Come on, Ken just arrived."

Rahula looks at Aaron for consent.

Aaron nods, turns and strides off.

Dawn stares after him, shakes her head.

Rahula, "It would've been better if I hadn't come."

Dawn quickly turns back to Rahula, "Don't be ridiculous."

She slides her arm around Rahula's shoulders, "Aaron's just stressed out. Happens every time we visit his family."

They walk.

Dawn admires his clothes, "I love the Eastern look and so did your mother. Maybe that's why we ended up in the East."

Appreciative, Rahula relaxes.

* * * * *

Chapter 18 - Great hook up here

* * * * *

Ken wheels in suitcases to their cottage.

Joanna hurries close behind him.

She wears her new, long, Eastern style dress and carries an armful of packages.

Ken, "Laura, Stevie, we made it."

Ken heads to the downstairs bedroom, disappears inside.

Joanna, "Oh, look at the view!"

Joanna drops the packages on a chair, races to the wall of glass facing the lake.

Back lit by the sunlight, the sheer cloth exposes her silhouette.

A frowning Ken emerges from the bedroom, "Stevie!"

Ken stares at Joanna.

He blasts, "Joanna, you can't wear that dress!"

Stevie appears at the top of the spiral staircase.

Joanna spins around, "It's long!"

Stevie, "Yeah, Dad?"

Ken, "Where's your mother?"

Ken turns back to Joanna, "It's see through. And you've got on one of those..."

He describes a thong with his hands.

Stevie, "With Cef."

Joanna grabs her packages, races from the expansive living/kitchen area and up the stairs.

Joanna, "I'll save the thongs for the jeans, okay?"

She glances at her exasperated father and she whispers to a downward climbing Stevie as she passes him, "He's acting weird."

Stevie, "Yeah."

He comes down, "Great hook up here, Dad."

Ken, "I'm sure it is."

Ken storms to the door just as Laura, all smiles, races in.

She hugs him, kisses him on the cheek, "This place is just perfect, Ken."

Ken, "For what?"

Laura, "For the celebration, of course. Your Mom and Dad want us all to meet at their cottage for the famous, family photo-shoot."

* * * * *

Chapter 19 - Zoe

* * * * *

Cef walks briskly towards Sam and Sara's cottage.

From lakeside, a buxom, attractive brunette, Zoe, 28, sways towards him.

He slows his pace.

She smiles sexily.

They stop.

Cef, "Hi, you staying here?"

Zoe, "Over there."

Cef looks where she points, searches for her partner.

Cef, "Nice place for a honeymoon."

She walks on, "If you have a husband."

Cef, "Nice place to meet someone if you don't. I'm Cef."

Zoe, "Zoe."

He watches her walk to her cabin, unlock the door.

Aaron, "Looks cute. Why don't you invite her to join us?"

Cef turns to see a smiling Aaron, Dawn and Rahula.

Aaron, "Now I see why Ken put us on the hill. To increase your chances?"

Cef stiffens, looks over to Zoe's cabin.

Cef, "Uh... duty before pleasure. Photo shoot."

* * * * *

Chapter 20 - 1st Photo shoot

* * * * *

In the cottage, everyone poses, backlit by the view to the lake, as Sam looks into his ancient box camera, resting on a tripod.

He checks his light meter.

Stevie, "Poppa, want to use my digital?"

Sam, "No good for portraits."

He looks into the viewfinder.

Sara sits next to an empty chair.

Standing behind her, the taller Cef separates Aaron and Ken.

Ken's arm encircles Laura, Aaron hugs Dawn.

The three young ones kneel in front.

Joanna, in the middle, shifts closer to Rahula.

Sam, "Joanna, leave me room to get through."

Joanna reluctantly shifts further away from Rahula, who turns and smiles shyly.

Their eyes meet and hold.

Ken frowns, clears his throat.

Sam, "Smile."

Everyone smiles except Ken.

Sam, "Here goes."

Sam presses the timer, barrels towards the chair, sits down, smiles broadly and pokes his tongue out.

Click.

Sam jumps up as everyone heaves a sigh of relief, "One more. My tongue got in the way."

The group groans.

Ken, "Surprise."

Sara, "And you hold yours."

Ken, "He just likes to torture us."

Sara, "Ken!"

Aaron pokes his tongue out, grabs it.

Cef laughs.

His face softens.

Cef, "Always there to cheer us up."

Ken stiffens, "And steal the limelight."

Aaron frowns, shakes his head.

Sara takes on an anxious look.

Dawn, "Joanna, that's a beautiful dress."

Joanna beams her thanks.

Rahula steals an admiring look at Joanna who whispers to him.

Joanna, "It was made in Sri Lanka. We match."

Sam, "Joanna, stand next to your mother."

Rahula watches her move away.

Sam bellows, "Ah, Dawn, your..."

Dawn, "Rahula."

Sam, "Yeah, get him to stand next to you. Stevie, sit on the floor in front of Nana."

The three move quickly.

Sam, "Let me focus."

Sam moves the camera forward, checks the viewfinder.

The picture cuts off Rahula.

Sam, "Perfect. Smile!"

He zooms to the chair.

Smiles broadly.

The camera clicks.

Aaron claps.

Sam takes a bow, heads to his camera.

Contented, Sara soaks in her family.

Ken and Cef quickly move toward the fridge.

Laura flops onto the couch.

Joanna inches closer to a bashful Rahula.

Stevie sneaks to the door.

Dawn, "Stevie, wait. Good time for exercise."

Caught, Stevie groans, fidgets.

Ken, "The exercise Queen."

Ken peers into the fridge, "I'd rather have a beer. Cef?"

Laura, "That's not on your diet. And you love exercise."

Ken, "Yes, my Guru, I love exercise, I love exercise."

Dawn, "Wonderful hiking trails. Aaron, Cef, Joanna, Stevie you used to go hiking--"

Joanna, "Great idea. Rahula, want to see some of the best Northwest trails?"

Rahula, "Love to."

Joanna, "I'll change into jeans."

Joanna, all smiles, races to the door.

Rahula fingers his clothes, mumbles, "Jeans... yeah."

Rahula and Stevie follow her.

Joanna, "Stevie, bring your camera."

They exit.

Aaron and Cef look at a scowling Ken.

Ken, "You kidding?"

Dawn, "Ready for a coach, Ken?"

Aaron gives Dawn a grateful expression, which she responds to with a wink.

Surprised, Ken turns to her, cracks a suggestive smile, "Anytime."

Laura jumps up, "Okay, let's hit the trail."

Sara, "Laura, stay and learn the exercises too, so you can take over as coach. I had to motivate Sam with his physiotherapy."

Laura's exuberance vanishes.

Sam heads to the bedroom, "Mustn't continue negative conditioning... naptime."

Ken gives Laura a feigned, loving smile, "My guru, dear wife and now coach?"

Laura, "Your mother has such great ideas."

Ken, "That's because she loves me."

Uncomfortable, Cef heads to the door.

Aaron follows.

Ken, "Go for it, Cef. Use up that youthful energy."

Cef flinches, but doesn't stop.

Aaron, "Cef, why don't you invite that cute brunette? What's her name?"

Cef, "Zoe."

* * * * *

Chapter 21 - A bit blue

* * * * *

Cef strides ahead on the forest trail leading upward.

Aaron runs to catch up, "You're in great shape."

Cef, "Uh-huh."

Cef increases his pace.

Aaron matches him.

Cef keeps his vision glued to the trail.

Aaron, "Like your teaching job?"

Cef, "Yes."

Aaron, "Still in touch with Jill? You guys made a great couple."

Cef, "No."

Aaron, "Have a new girlfriend?"

Cef glances at him, returns his sight to the trail.

Aaron, "The old Cef would already be chatting up Zoe."

Cef, "What're you getting at?"

Aaron, "You're acting differently."

Cef, "Ken's right. You only see black and white."

Aaron, "You look a bit blue to me."

Caught off guard, Cef stares at Aaron.

Aaron, "If you want to know what I see, ask me."

* * * * *

Chapter 22 - Imagine

* * * * *

Back down the trail, Rahula, in his Western jeans and shirt, strolls along with Joanna and Stevie.

Stevie takes photo after photo.

Rahula soaks in the forest.

Joanna soaks in Rahula, "Is this your first time to America?"

Rahula, "No. I was born here. But my parents left when I was four."

Joanna, "So, you're an American!"

Rahula, "Yes. Dawn's cousin met my father at medical school."

Stevie, "Shit. Dead. Got any batteries?"

Joanna, "No. Rahula?"

Rahula shakes his head.

Stevie turns around, strides away, "See you guys."

Joanna smiles at Rahula.

Nervous, Rahula calls to Stevie, "Wait."

Stevie stops.

Rahula looks at him anxiously, "Come with us. We're almost to the overlook."

Stevie looks at Joanna who motions for him to go.

Stevie, "Forests are boring."

Rahula, "Want to learn how I was taught to walk through the forest?"

Stevie groans.

Rahula, "Imagine there's no tomorrow."

Joanna, "Sounds cool."

Stevie, "Like the world's gonna be blown up by aliens?"

Rahula, "Yeah, and you have the power to create a new world from thought, but only if you have a good memory."

Stevie, "10,000 terabytes, better than any computer."

Joanna looks at Rahula adoringly.

Rahula, "So you have to be fully present to see what this world is..."

Rahula walks gracefully, aware, "Feel the touch of your feet on the ground. When you see, truly see, when you smell, just smell, when you hear, just hear. Let go of the future and the past."

Stevie concentrates, looks around like his eyes have become the camera lens and takes a step, his arms up, alert, on the lookout for aliens.

Joanna imitates Rahula.

They walk gently, silently.

Rahula stops, takes in the sun filtering through the trees.

Joanna watches the shadows the sunlight casts over an absorbed Rahula.

She smiles.

Becoming aware of her gaze, he glances at the disappearing robotic Stevie, ahead of him.

Shyness overpowering, he walks on, less gracefully.

Joanna follows.

* * * * *

Chapter 23 - Blake

* * * * *

Dawn adheres a photo of Joanna to the collage of family photos, anniversary cards and poems on a bulletin board in the Banquet room.

A pretty Sri Lankan waitress, Anika, 19, and a Waiter, 24, set a long table with cutlery and flowers.

Dawn wanders to Laura who talks with a Manager, 34.

Manager, "Everything's in order. And no problem with the extra guest, as we don't need a new table."

Laura, "What?"

The Manager pulls out a guest list, "Mr. Blake Robbins."

Laura's mouth drops open.

Dawn's eyebrows rise.

Laura, "Who invited--"

Manager, "Your husband called this morning. We now only have room for one more guest before we'd have to add another table--"

Laura, "I'm sure that will be all. Thank you."

Manager, "Please don't hesitate to let me know if you'd like anything else."

Laura, "Yes, thank you."

The Manager strides over to Anika, shifts the cutlery, and gives her a stern look.

Anika nods, quickly changes others.

Dawn, "I never imagined Ken inviting Blake after what I heard about him and Joanna."

Laura's shakes her head, "He'd better behave himself."

* * * * *

BLAKE, 19, chiseled face, cockily handsome Alpha male, signs in at the reception, as he swings his hips to a tune he hums.

Blake, "Where's Miss Joanna Evan staying?"

The receptionist gives him an official once over, "I'm sorry, I can't give out--"

Blake smiles a charmer, "She's family. I'm with the Anniversary party."

The receptionist thaws, points to a map, "At the lakeside cottage. She's such a bright young girl."

Blake, "The best."

Receptionist, "She's hiking with her uncles. Would you like to leave a message for when she gets back?"

Blake, "Nope. She loves surprises."

Blake grabs his key and bounces out.

* * * * *

Chapter 24 - Help!

* * * * *

At the overlook, Cef and Aaron take in the expansive view.

Cef, "Ever date anyone older?"

Aaron, "Once, she tried to mother me."

Cef hesitates, "Ever had an affair?"

Aaron, "No way. I love Dawn too much."

Cef, "Not even tempted?"

Aaron, "Attracted but never tempted. Too much pain for a fleeting pleasure."

Cef looks away.

Aaron, "If she's married, it's nothing but trouble."

Cef, "But her husband's treating her badly... We haven't had any sex. She just needs a hug, a kiss. She wants more, but--"

Aaron, "No sex yet? Sure she wants more. Watch out, Cef."

Cef, "Yeah, but--"

Aaron, "You want all that pain?"

Cef, "Shit, what's the point - I knew you'd say that!"

Aaron, "Because you know yourself?"

Cef spins around, sprints away.

Aaron jogs after him, "Wait, Cef."

No match for Cef's youth, Aaron slows down, angrily bangs on the wood railing that protects hikers from the sheer drop.

Aaron, "Damn."

Dejected, Aaron flops down on a large rock.

Cef barrels down the narrow track.

Stevie, like a robot, approaches a blind curve from the other direction.

Cef rounds the bend.

Stevie stares wide-eyed.

Swerving to miss him, Cef hits the rail, full force.

It gives way.

Cef falls.

Stevie screams, "Help!"

Rahula and Joanna race around the bend to see Stevie staring in horror.

They look down.

Cef tumbles onto a small bush on a ledge below.

The bush bends under his weight.

He lies stunned.

Below him a sheer hundred-foot drop with jagged boulders.

Joanna, "Uncle Cef!"

Blood runs from Cef's forehead.

Scratches cover his arms.

He passes out.

Rahula, "That bush won't hold. I'm going down."

Joanna, "How? You could fall, too!"

Rahula ignores Joanna, he scans the ledge, the overhanging branch and sees rocks that would help him reach the branch.

He drops over, his foot resting in a crevice below, lowers himself slowly down.

Joanna covers her mouth in horror.

Stevie's eyes widen.

Totally focused, Rahula's foot reaches the branch, then his other.

He crouches down, slides out to the end.

A branch on the bush that holds Cef snaps.

It bends more under his weight.

Joanna, "Stevie, go find Aaron."

Nearing the end of the branch, Rahula clasps it tightly, hangs down and jumps to the sloping ledge just as Cef opens his eyes, dazed and confused.

Rahula, "Cef, don't move, the bush may give way. Wait until I reach you."

Rahula balances and approaches Cef.

He reaches out, Cef clasps his arm.

Rahula pulls.

Cef scrambles towards Rahula as the bush snaps in half.

Stones tumble over the cliff.

Cef and Rahula crouch down.

Rahula touches the blood on Cef's forehead, "You okay?"

Cef, "Thanks to you. Just a bit dazed."

Aaron appears above, "Holy shit."

Rahula, "That branch can take us up to the next ledge where Aaron will be able to reach you."

Cef nods.

Rahula, "Don't look down. Concentrate on your body and each movement."

They creep up to the branch.

Cef hoists himself up, the branch creaks but carries his weight.

He scrambles up to the next ledge, flops down, appears exhausted.

Rahula follows.

Aaron, "Push him up, I'll pull."

Rahula, "Cef, put your foot in that crevice there."

Cef nods.

Aaron and Stevie drop down to their belly.

Joanna holds onto Stevie's legs.

Rahula, "Focus on your body. You're stable, in control."

Cef stands slowly, turns around and reaches up.

Both Aaron and Stevie grasp his arm firmly, pull.

Rahula pushes, Cef's foot finds the crevice.

Straining with all their strength, Aaron and Stevie inch backward as Cef rises.

Rahula's foot slides.

He loses his foothold, falls but grabs the branch with one hand, dangles dangerously.

Joanna, "Rahula!"

Cef's head and chest appear over the rise.

Rahula pulls, grasps the branch with his other hand, hoists himself up.

Aaron and Stevie grab Cef's arms with their other free hand and heave.

Cef slides onto the path.

Aaron reaches down, clasps Rahula's hand, pulls him over the rise, "Rahula, thank God."

They hug.

Aaron turns to Cef, just as Joanna embraces Rahula who smiles bashfully.

Joanna, "You were wonderful!"

Stevie, "Rahula, the new wonderman!"

* * * * *

Chapter 25 - Didn't realize

* * * * *

Sam and Sara's cottage.

Sara fusses over Cef's scratches as Aaron secures an elastic bandage around Cef's ankle.

Sam stands watching.

Sara, "You could've been killed."

Joanna swoons, "Rahula risked his life but was so calm. He was wonderful. He knew exactly--"

Ken, flopped in a chair, finishes a swig of beer, scowls, "Yeah, you already told us."

Cef gives Ken a pitying expression, turns to Aaron, "You're right."

Aaron looks at Cef long.

Sam, "Not the only time Aaron helped save a brother, hey Kenny?"

Ken mumbles, "In the gospel according to Aaron."

Sam, "Anything broken?"

Aaron, "No. This is only a precaution. Cef's lucky. Shouldn't stop him from dancing."

Laura and Dawn burst in.

Laura, "Cef, you all right?"

Cef, "Yeah, now I am. Didn't realize how far I'd fallen."

Laura races towards him concerned.

Cef, "I'm out of here."

Cef's up and in a flash, limps by Laura.

Sara, "Cef, lie down, take it easy."

Cef, "Just following doctor's orders."

Cef hurries out.

Dawn, "He's limping. Does he need--"

Aaron, "Not the type you can offer."

Dawn looks at him strangely.

Laura, "Joanna, what happened?"

Joanna, "Rahula was so wonderful--"

Ken slams down his beer, storms out to the patio.

Aaron, "We'll catch you later."

Aaron grabs a perplexed Dawn's arm, guides her to the door.

Sam drifts out to the porch.

Joanna gushes, "Rahula risked his life but was so calm. Mom, he's American--"

* * * * *

Chapter 26 - Decisions

* * * * *

In his cabin, Rahula, Buddha pendant sparkling against his muscular chest, fingers an Eastern style shirt.

His hand moves towards a Western shirt.

Confused, he closes his eyes.

He turns away, opens a wallet on a nearby table.

He looks at a handsome, imposing Sri Lankan man, in Eastern style dress embracing a very attractive blonde who looks similar to Dawn.

Rahula's eyes glisten.

He flips it closed, puts on the Eastern shirt.

* * * * *

In her bedroom, Joanna, hair up and looking twenty in a slinky short dress, looks in the mirror.

She frowns, wriggles out of it, grabs a long dress, slips it on, zips it, checks the mirror.

The flowing longer dress emphasizes her slim waist, youthful shoulders and gives her a demur, innocent look.

She undoes two top buttons, inspects herself.

She does one up, unclips her hair and smiles.

* * * * *

Chapter 27 - Time out

* * * * *

Aaron and Dawn's cabin.

Dawn pulls a comb through her hair, tightens the belt of her kimono.

Aaron, freshly shaven, in a bathrobe, enters from the bathroom.

Aaron approaches her with that look.

They embrace, kiss.

The kimono and bathrobe fall to the floor.

* * * * *

Chapter 28 - Sure

* * * * *

Ken and Laura's bedroom.

A bare-chested Ken throws his T-shirt on the bed just as Laura, in a slip, exits the bathroom, and heads to the closet.

Desirous, Ken gazes at her, steps in front of her.

Laura, "Could you give me--"

Ken, "Sure."

Ken embraces her and kisses her long.

She pulls away, "Not now, we've--"

Laura tries to brush past.

He puts his arm up to block her, "No meetings, no deadlines, no school plays, no exams to mark, no nothing. Just you and me alone."

Laura looks up at Ken's penetrating stare.

Ken, "Plenty of time."

Ken slides his hand down her shoulder towards her breast.

Laura, "I just had a shower."

Ken, "Perfect. No sweaty gym clothes."

Laura spins around, heads towards a dressing table, checks her face in the mirror, hurriedly drags a brush through her hair.

Ken approaches, "You used to look at me the way you now look at Cef."

Laura bangs down the brush, picks up a lipstick nervously, "And what is that supposed to mean?"

Ken, "Before I share you with my..."

She fumbles.

The lipstick cover clatters onto the floor.

Ken, "...delightful family..."

Ken crouches down, picks up the cover.

Laura turns around, her face anxious.

Ken rises, hands her the lipstick cover, "...can't we have a bit of old time togetherness?"

Laura brushes past him to the closet, and slips on her dress, "There is nothing going on with Cef and me."

Ken mutters to himself as he storms to the bathroom, "Sure."

* * * * *

Chapter 29 - Pleasant landing

* * * * *

Absorbed in each other at the lake, Cef and Zoe sit in chairs on a large platform at the end of a seventy-foot wooden jetty.

Cef, "The railing couldn't take my weight and gave way."

Zoe, "Just too old. You need something younger and flexible to take someone your size."

Cef looks at her seductively.

He gets up, holds his hand out to her, smiles, "How right you are."

Zoe, "You may still fall."

Cef, "It'll be a more pleasant landing."

Cef slips his arm around her as they walk back up the jetty.

They pass a sign that reads, DANGER: OLD TIMBER.

PLEASE DO NOT EXCEED FOUR PEOPLE ON THE PLATFORM AT ONE TIME.

USE THE JETTY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

The sun slowly sinks behind the mountains.

* * * * *

Chapter 30 - I have been hard

* * * * *

Color streaked sky seen through the glass wall of Sam and Sara's cottage.

Sam fingers something in his pocket nervously as he gazes out.

Sara, in a sophisticated silk dress, looking closer to fifty, walks out from the bedroom.

She hurries to the window, "Oh, it's so beautiful."

Sam turns to her, looks at her lovingly, "And so are you."

They hug.

He pulls out a small box, "Happy anniversary, Dear. I love you."

Sara unwraps it, opens the jewelry case.

A gold heart necklace with a diamond in the middle.

Sara, "Oh Sam, it's divine."

They kiss.

Sam takes it out, slips it around her neck.

Sara, "With everyone here for the celebration, it's just wonderful.-- and Sam?"

Sam, "Yes, maybe I have been hard on the boy, uh, Rahula."

Sara hugs him, "My love."

* * * * *

Chapter 31 - The party begins

* * * * *

Banquet room.

Back-dropped by the glass sliding doors that look out to the moonlit lake, Sara hugs Laura as a band plays soothing music.

Ken heads to the bar with Sam.

Sara, "Laura, it's perfect. Even a band and dance floor."

Laura, "Yes, they play all your favorites."

Sara, "It reminds me of one of Kenny's opening nights."

Laura's face takes on a wistful expression.

The waiter approaches with glasses of champagne and hors d'oeuvres.

Sara, "Do you miss acting? You two were just wonderful--"

Laura, "When Ken was Kenny."

Sara looks at her questioningly.

Laura, "Lots of champagne."

Laura takes one, gives it to Sara.

Sara, "You're not having one?"

Aaron, Dawn and Rahula approach.

Laura, "For the toasts. Love it, but it goes to my head too quickly."

Aaron grabs two glasses, hands one to Dawn, "Great place, Laura. You and Dawn did a fantastic job with decorations."

Laura smiles her thanks.

Aaron, "Naturally, being a set director, actress and now English teacher."

Dawn grins, "Yes, and I was the stagehand. Just like college days."

Laura appears uncomfortable.

She shoots a glance over to Ken who raises his glass towards her, takes a sip.

Aaron kisses Sara on the cheek, "Mom, you look great. I didn't know they let people get married at ten."

Sara, "Always full of compliments."

Aaron, "Only when it's deserving."

Sara, "You and Dawn look pretty good yourself. And Rahula, so handsome."

Rahula gives a shy smile.

Aaron, "Good news. Cef's bringing a date."

Laura appears stunned, tightens up.

Sara gives a sigh of relief and clasps Aaron's hand tightly, "Good. Since he broke up with Jill, he hasn't been himself. I knew you being here would help."

A chubby woman, Aunt Beth, 60, squeezed into a too small dress, leads jovial Uncle Phil, 65, a younger version of Sam only with hair, towards them.

Sara, "Oh, there's Beth and Phil."

Laura, "I have to go to the bathroom."

Laura dashes past a surprised Beth and Phil, grabs a glass of champagne.

She passes Ken who greets cousin Bobby, 46 and his wife, Linda, 40.

Surprised, Ken watches her exit.

* * * * *

Clearly agitated, Laura heads towards the restroom.

Cef enters arm in arm with a radiant Zoe.

So absorbed in each other, they do not see Laura.

Laura stares, spins around and heads back.

* * * * *

Chapter 32 - System's archaic

* * * * *

Ken waits at the door.

Seeing Cef with Zoe, he smiles, grabs Laura as she enters, "Let's dance."

He drags a reluctant Laura toward the dance floor.

With all eyes turned towards them, she gulps down more champagne.

Ken nods to the lead guitarist, "Something happy and lively to get the party swinging."

The guitars strum.

The drums throb.

Ken takes Laura's empty glass, puts it down.

Cef and Zoe enter.

Cef and Laura catch eyes.

He nods to Laura and leads a delighted Zoe to the dance floor.

Laura's body sways in unison with Ken.

Aaron smiles, looks at Dawn.

They join in.

Sara jumps up, pulls Sam to the floor.

He twirls her around in a 50's dance style.

Laughing Beth and Phil, Bobby and Linda join in.

The party swings.

Except for Rahula.

Looking out of place, he shifts over to a large potted palm near the bulletin board and the snack table where Stevie and his cousins, Nat 14, and Vicki, 12 munch into the food.

Corn chips in hand, Stevie scoops up a huge gob of dip, waves it at Rahula and munches, "Corn chips and dip uploaded into the memory bank. Essential to the New World!"

Rahula strokes the palm frond as his face takes on a wistful expression.

He shifts closer to its trunk, stands inconspicuously as he scans the room.

Blake swaggers in, heads to the bar, grabs a glass of champagne, sits down and looks around.

He spots Rahula, surveys him from head to foot.

Rahula keeps his eyes glued to the entrance.

Joanna sweeps in, her dress and hair flowing.

Rahula gazes at her, transfixed.

He steps forward.

Their eyes meet.

The moment stops.

Her face lights up in the most beautiful smile, which visibly affects Rahula.

They walk toward each other.

Blake jumps from his barstool, strides quickly into her path, hugs her closely, "Joanna, you look... gorgeously innocent. Really suits you."

Joanna, surprised and exasperated, pulls away, blushing.

Blake, "I can't get you out of my mind."

Joanna, "Along with all the other girls."

Rahula, seeing their intimacy, turns away disappointed.

Blake, "I'm sorry I didn't answer your emails. If your father saw what I wanted to write, I'd be cooked."

Joanna, "I really don't care."

Joanna tries to brush past him, but he blocks her.

Blake, "You know how your Dad freaked when he caught us..."

Rahula turns towards the bulletin board, as if interested, but his eyes glaze over.

Joanna looks up at the smiling, suggestive face of Blake.

Blake, "But he's obviously accepted our... mutual affection. He invited me, personally."

Joanna, "Cool it, I have a new boyfriend."

Joanna pushes past him, leaving a surprised Blake and walks gracefully, head high, towards Rahula.

Ken quickly hurries to Joanna before she reaches Rahula, grabs her hand, "Joanna, you're a princess. Give your dear Dad the pleasure of a dance."

Resigned, she nods.

Ken swirls her around.

Laura heads to the bar, grabs another glass of champagne and drains it.

She watches Cef and Zoe dance thoroughly focused on each other.

Ken dances with a distracted Joanna, smugly looks over at Rahula.

Blake wanders over to the snack table.

He picks up two empty trays, walks to Rahula, "Hey, these are empty."

Rahula smiles, takes them, "Yes, they are."

Blake, "While you're in the kitchen, hurry the cooks. I'm starving."

Rahula, "Can I ask who you are, Sir?"

Blake, "Blake Robbins. My stepfather and Ken are cousins."

Blake looks at Rahula snidely, "Bit young to be a bouncer, aren't you?"

Rahula smiles, bows slightly, "Rahula, Joanna's cousin."

Rahula turns away as Blake scoffs, "Good joke."

Rahula gazes out the sliding doors at the moonlight on the lake.

He walks to the snack table, puts down the empty trays, heads towards the doors.

Indignant, Blake wanders to Stevie, "Smartass waiter."

Stevie, "My cousin? He's cool."

Blake, "Like I'm your mother."

Stevie looks at him with radar eyes, "Get updated, system's archaic."

Blake stomps back to the bar.

Stevie mocks typing, "Delete - a Virus."

Nat, "Older brothers. Into power."

With the cutest of smiles, Vicki looks at Nat, and agrees, "Yeah, yeah-uh."

Dawn intercepts Rahula, "Where are you going?"

Rahula, "The moon shines equally on everyone."

Dawn looks at Blake who stares haughtily towards Rahula, "Blake is the black sheep of the family. Don't take anything he says seriously."

Rahula looks over at Ken and Joanna dancing, then at Blake, "He looks white to me."

Taken aback, Dawn looks into Rahula's penetrating eyes.

She gives him a motherly smile, "Yes... I understand how you may be feeling. Do you think it's always been easy for me in Asia?"

Rahula looks down.

Dawn, "If we can remember our own worth, then it doesn't matter so much what others think of us."

Rahula nods and follows her to the long, beautifully decorated banquet table as the waiter finishes putting out salads and baskets of rolls.

Sam leads Sara to her chair and flops into his, puffing.

Laura bangs her empty glass on the bar, heads towards the door.

Aaron stops her, "Time for dinner. You know what champagne does on an empty stomach."

Laura, "I'm not your patient."

Laura rushes out.

Aaron grabs a microphone, "Okay everyone, let's get seated. Salads are served."

The band downshifts to soothing music.

Flushed and beaming, everyone converges to the table.

Rahula searches for his name card as he wanders down the long table.

He spots: "PHIL, LAURA, AARON, LINDA, CEF".

He stops when he sees: JOANNA.

He looks up.

Joanna heads towards the table, her eyes glued to him.

Blake swiftly strides to her.

She brushes him off.

Rahula anxiously looks at the next name card: BLAKE.

He frowns, reaches out for it.

Blake passes Joanna, pulls up next to Rahula in a flash, and grabs the name card, "That's me. Move on... cousin."

Blake sits, gloats.

He picks up Joanna's card, waves it, "Here, Joanna, next to me. Perfect."

Joanna stands dismayed as others seat themselves.

She looks at Rahula who breathes deeply and moves to the next setting.

The name card reads: RAHULA.

Confused, Joanna shoots a glance at Ken, who nods.

Stevie zooms up on the other side of the table, opposite to Blake, sees his name card and plunks down, "Plug in station."

Vicki giggles, sits next to Stevie, gives him an admiring look as he hoes into his salad.

Nat sits at the end of the table, rips open a roll, gobs it with butter.

Joanna moves past her chair and puts her hands in a salutation and smiles at Rahula.

Blake scowls.

Joanna, "Didn't get a chance to say, "hello"."

Rahula returns the salutation, "Hello, Joanna. You look beautiful."

Joanna blushes.

The clanging of a fork on a glass.

Ken, "Okay, everyone sit down, so we can get on with dinner."

All faces look towards Rahula and Joanna except for pressed lipped Aaron who looks across the table at Ken.

Dawn, sitting next to Ken, looks anxiously across the table at Aaron.

Laura, eye's downcast and shaky, swerves to her chair, sits down, tightly wraps her body and closes her eyes.

Joanna and Rahula quickly sit down.

Cef leans forward and smiles appreciatively at Rahula, "Hey, Rahula."

Rahula, "How's your leg?"

Cef, "Better. Thanks."

Cef catches Zoe's attention opposite him.

Cef, "Zoe. This is Rahula, who saved me."

Rahula smiles at her.

Zoe, "Wow, I imagined someone older."

Joanna, "He was wonderful! So calm and he knew exactly what to do."

Anika, in stylish Western dress, her black hair swept elegantly into a bun, rests plates in front of everyone at the other end of the table amidst the buzz of conversations.

The waiter moves down the other side.

Rahula, "Without the ledge and the tree I wouldn't have been able--"

Blake, "I get it. One of the staff gets an honorary title of cousin and invitation."

Stevie, "Update failed, reinstall program."

Blake glares at Stevie.

Cef appears amused, smiles at the deadpan face of Stevie.

Nat, "Hardware defective. Mission impossible."

Vicki giggles, "Yeah, yeah-uh."

Cef winks at Zoe who appears confused.

Joanna, "Rahula is Uncle Aaron and Aunt Dawn's adopted son."

Anika stops short behind Blake, agape.

Blake, "I see - poor orphan."

Rahula looks straight into Blake's mocking eyes, "Orphan, yes. As to poor - it depends on how you define richness or poverty."

Blake stiffens.

Rahula holds his gaze.

Blake looks away.

Anika, "No, it can't be - Rahula?"

Rahula looks up at Anika.

His mouth drops open in surprise.

He stands, "Yes, Anika?"

Anika, "How? I was told your family--"

The waiter on the other side of the table frowns.

Rahula, "All but me. It was good luck for your family that you left. Where are you--"

Waiter, "Anika. The boss."

The waiter jerks his head towards the staff entrance where the stern manager observes.

Anika smiles awkwardly, puts down Rahula and Nat's plate, and hurries away.

Rahula watches her with a far away expression as he slowly sits.

Blake cheerfully turns to Joanna who glances anxiously between Anika and Rahula.

Blake, "Looks like your coz found an old flame."

Ken, "To Mom and Dad, without whom we would not be able to have this delightful family gathering. Happy Anniversary."

Glasses clink together.

* * * * *

Chapter 33 - Going back

* * * * *

Later, everyone still sits at the table.

Phil takes out a cartoon of Sam, emphasizing his big nose and baldhead, and a sleek Sara.

He hands it to Sara who laughs and shows it to Sam.

Sam, "Well yours ain't so small either."

Phil, "Hah!"

Phil grins, pulls out another of his "creations" which shows.

-- Aaron, athletic, with a doctor's stethoscope checks over an impoverished child.

-- Cef, dressed in a clown suit, juggles balls.

-- Ken, with an over-emphasized pudgy belly, sits in a director's chair, and works intensely on a computer as sweat beads form a puddle on the floor.

Phil, proud of his creation, holds it up for Ken to see, "Next."

Ken frowns, glowers at Aaron.

Phil shows it to Aaron.

Dismayed, Aaron gives Phil a small nod and feigned smile.

Laura's eyes focus on the drawing.

A momentary softening as she glances at Ken with sympathy.

They catch eyes.

Laura shoots a contemptuous look at Phil, "Kenny and I are going back to the theatre after Joanna and Stevie are through college."

Ken appears surprised with her unexpected defense.

Laura downs more champagne.

Dawn, "You guys were so impressive on stage together."

Sam, "Ken's computer business is doing great."

Laura, "Kenny's new play is brilliant."

Ken, "You read it?"

Laura nods, a sparkle in her eyes.

Sara, "How do you have the time--"

Ken, "Nights, weekends."

Sam assumes fatherly authority, "A family man needs a more stable income."

Laura wraps herself up tightly again, withdraws, miserable.

Phil hands the cartoon to Sara, who slides it under her placemat.

Aunt Beth, "Bobby just bought a house in Florida. His law practice is booming."

Sam, "Company law, is that right?"

Uncle Phil, "Yes, he knows all the big CEOs."

* * * * *

Chapter 34 - Password protected area

* * * * *

Later, Rahula chats with Stevie, Nat and Vicki.

At the bar, Blake drains a glass of wine and talks with Ken.

Joanna enters, quickly slides up to Rahula, "Rahula, do you want to dance with me?"

Stevie smirks, whispers to Nat, "Password protected area."

Rahula flushes as the three kids drift away, "I... I'm sorry, Joanna. I don't know how."

Joanna, "Oh, it's easy."

Joanna sways her body sensuously in time with the music as Rahula watches, unmoving.

Joanna, "You just flow-- listen and let the music stream through you. Then watch your partner and... move in unison... like you're one body..."

Uncomfortable, Rahula glances over to the bar where Blake and Ken have turned to watch Joanna.

Ken scowls, speaks to Blake who grins and nods.

Joanna holds out her hand to Rahula.

Blake, off his stool in a flash, slides up, takes her hand, "Been waiting all night for this. Let's flow, Joanna."

Blake pulls a resisting Joanna to the floor.

He looks over his shoulder at Rahula, "Only the quick or the disappointed."

Rahula walks out.

Joanna looks anxiously towards him.

Blake dances into her view, blocking her vision.

* * * * *

Chapter 35 - Anika

* * * * *

Rahula looks up at the moon.

He walks around the building towards a door marked: "STAFF ENTRANCE."

He knocks.

The waiter sticks his head out, "Yeah?"

Rahula, "Can I please speak to Anika?"

Waiter, "You wanna get her fired?"

Taken aback, Rahula squirms under the Waiter's glare, "Of course not. But I haven't seen her in years. Can you give me her phone number or--"

Waiter, "She's off in an hour."

The waiter slams the door.

Waiter's voice, "Anika, your friend wants to talk to you when you're off."

Rahula sighs, wanders to the water's edge, crouches down and stares at the moonlit water.

He picks up a rock and skimmers it over the surface.

* * * * *

Chapter 36 - You'll be sorry

* * * * *

Joanna steps out of the banquet room, heads to the jetty searching for Rahula.

She passes by a large tree that casts shadows over him, his back towards her, so he merges into the darkness.

Blake walks briskly pass the tree.

Rahula turns, sees Joanna, with Blake in pursuit, walking to the end of the jetty.

Rahula watches, unsure.

* * * * *

Joanna reaches the platform, flops down in a chair.

Blake approaches.

Hearing footsteps, Joanna jumps up.

Blake, "Waiting for me?"

A disappointed Joanna frowns, turns away, "No."

Blake steps closer, turns on the charm, "Please don't be mad at me. I loved your emails. Like looking into your... soul."

Joanna blushes, looks up into his smiling eyes, "Well... maybe I said too much and... things change..."

Blake, "I can show you now how I feel."

Blake reaches out, strokes her hair.

Momentarily Joanna appears mesmerized.

She breaks out of it, steps back, shakes her head, "I'm sorry, Blake. You're not my--"

Blake, "You know inside, it would be impossible."

In the shadows, Rahula looks on.

With clenched jaw, Joanna looks at Blake angrily.

Blake, "Your father would freak out."

Blake steps forward, "But he's obviously accepted us."

Joanna tries to brush past, but he grabs her, pulls her close, and kisses her hard.

She struggles against his firm hold.

Tears well up.

Fearful, she cries, "Blake! Let me go!"

Seeing her resistance, Rahula moves quickly onto the jetty, his graceful movements, almost soundless.

Blake, "'I long to have your arms around me.' Should I quote more? You've got it - enjoy it."

Joanna, "Stop it!"

Blake, "Then you stop your game."

Rahula approaches, "Let her go."

Blake glares at Rahula, "None of your business--"

Joanna, "Rahula--"

Blake covers Joanna's mouth with his hand, "We don't want everyone hearing our little spat, do we?"

Joanna strains against his firm grasp.

Rahula sees her tears.

He moves quickly, grabs Blake's arm, "Let her go."

Blake releases Joanna.

As she scrambles away, a furious Blake swings a fist straight towards Rahula's face.

Rahula blocks, grabs Blake's arm and throws him to the deck.

His head knocks on a protruding nail.

Blood runs down his cheek.

Stunned, Blake stares at Rahula, who readies himself in a martial arts stance.

Blake struggles up, wipes the blood, looks at it and back at Rahula who remains totally focused, ready.

Blake pumps himself up, brushes himself off and glares at them, "You'll both be sorry."

He stomps away.

Rahula turns to Joanna who looks at him in awe.

Suddenly shy, he loses his appearance of confidence, "Are you all right?"

Joanna races to Rahula and hugs him, "Thank you, Rahula."

Embarrassed, Rahula pulls away, "I guess we better get back."

Joanna, "Do you like the party?"

Rahula, "No, but Blake is bound to cause--"

Joanna acts faint, "I think I need to sit down."

Rahula clasps her arm, leads her to a chair.

She lowers down, searches for her purse.

Rahula sees it on the deck, gives it to her.

She pulls out a tissue, wipes her eyes.

Rahula stands uncomfortably, watching.

Joanna, "We can just sit for a few minutes."

Joanna nods to the other chair.

Rahula relaxes, sits down.

Joanna smiles, coyly.

* * * * *

Chapter 37 - My daughter

* * * * *

Soothing music continues in the banquet room.

Cef slow dances with Zoe.

Linda with Bobby.

Ken, at the bar, watches disdainfully as Aunt Beth and Uncle Phil gush over Aaron.

Ken eyes Dawn, who talks with Laura.

Carrying his laptop, a proud Stevie marches in with Vicki and Nat.

He sets it up near Laura and Dawn, "Want to see a slide show of the hike, Mom."

Laura drains her glass as Ken limps over, "Some other time."

Stevie, "Aunt Dawn?"

Dawn, "Sure. I bet you've created a masterpiece."

Stevie grins, points to his head, "Up until the batteries died. The rescue is safely stored in my memory bank."

Ken, "Dawn, would you like to dance?"

Laura turns quickly, to observe Ken's intense focus on Dawn.

Laura shifts uncomfortably, grabs Dawn's untouched glass, gulps.

Dawn glances at Laura, then at Ken's suggestive smile.

Dawn, "No, thanks."

Ken, "I'd be able to keep up with you. My leg's not a problem."

Dawn, "I'm sure you could, Ken. But no thanks. Stevie--"

Ken, "Aaron won't mind sharing you. We brothers were taught how to share everything - right, Laura?"

Laura frowns, walks away.

Blake, bruised and scraped, bursts in, barrels towards Ken.

A startled Bobby and Linda rush after him, concerned.

Linda, "Blake, what happened? Are you okay?"

Seeing Blake, Dawn gets up.

A pleased Ken, thinking she's consented, holds out his hand, which she ignores.

Blake, "Your half-breed nephew really likes his coz. I wouldn't leave him alone with her too long, Unk!"

Ken spins around.

Laura jumps up.

Dawn frowns, "Rahula only fights in defense. What were you doing, bothering Joanna?"

Blake, "Shows how little you know him!"

Linda dabs the blood on Blake's face with a tissue.

Blake, "He doesn't belong in this family!"

Nat smirks, "Finally got thumped? Not such a big shot after all, eh, tough guy?"

Blake pulls away from Linda and lunges towards Nat threateningly.

Bobby steps in his way, "Cut it out, you two!"

Ken heads to the door.

Dawn hurries to Aaron.

Stevie jumps up, swings his arms in a martial arts move, "Protecting the damsel from the invasion of a deadly virus."

Vicki laughs.

Stevie, "Geez. This will make millions! Rahula, the new super wonderman!"

Blake glowers at Stevie.

Cef intercepts Ken near the door, "Cool down. Blake's been needling Rahula since he got here. Probably went too far."

Ken glares at Cef, "She's my daughter, not yours. Or have you forgotten that?"

Zoe looks at them both anxiously.

Cef, "Ken, look--"

Sara hurries towards Ken, "Ken!"

Ken frowns but waits.

Cef backs off.

* * * * *

Chapter 38 - 3's a crowd

* * * * *

On the jetty platform, Joanna shifts her chair closer to a mesmerized Rahula just as Anika approaches them from behind.

Anika, "Rahula."

Rahula starts.

He hurriedly gets up, "Anika. I thought you couldn't--"

Anika, "Short break."

She looks at Joanna.

Rahula, "Anika, this is Joanna, my cousin. Anika used to live next door to me."

Anika, "Hi, Joanna."

Joanna struggles to hide her displeasure, "Hi."

Rahula pulls up a chair.

Anika sits.

* * * * *

Chapter 39 - Harmless

* * * * *

Ken reaches the jetty with Dawn and Aaron in pursuit.

Seeing the threesome at the end, he stops.

Aaron draws near, "Looks quite harmless. Dawn was probably right and you have Rahula to thank--"

Ken, "Who asked you?"

Ken limps back to the banquet room.

Aaron sighs.

Dawn puts her hand on Aaron's shoulder.

They walk back arm in arm.

* * * * *

Chapter 40 - Joanna takes over

* * * * *

Anika hands Rahula a slip of paper as she rises, "This is my address and phone number. I'm free tomorrow. Maybe--"

Rahula brightens.

Joanna looks on jealously.

Rahula, "It'd be great to catch up."

Rahula rises, looks at the slip of paper, "We have another day here--"

Anika, "I could leave tomorrow instead of tonight. Where are you staying?"

Joanna fidgets.

Rahula, "The top cabin. Can I meet you in the morning and we can--"

Joanna's dress swishes as she gets up, walks to the edge of the platform.

Rahula glances at her, anxiously.

Anika, "I'm free in forty minutes."

Rahula, "Tonight's... not so good. Family... commitments. Tomorrow at nine."

Anika nods, smiles lovingly and hurries away.

Rahula stares after her.

He turns.

Joanna gazes at the moon and the shimmering water.

Confused, Rahula hesitates.

Joanna turns, invites him with her expression.

He walks to her.

* * * * *

Chapter 41 - The Jetty mess

* * * * *

Back in the banquet room, Linda, Bobby, Phil and Beth stand near the door with Sara and Sam, Laura, Dawn and Aaron hugging good-bye.

The band packs up their instruments.

Dawn glances anxiously over to the sliding doors where Ken stands vigil.

His forehead furrows.

He steps outside.

Dawn hurriedly leaves the surprised group.

* * * * *

On the platform, Rahula awkwardly smiles at Joanna.

Joanna, "Was Anika--"

Rahula, "My next-door neighbor, four years ago."

Joanna, "She seems to like you."

Rahula nods, uncomfortably.

Joanna steps closer, "But that's easy. I do, too."

Rahula looks into her wide, adoring eyes, captivated.

She moves closer.

Her lips touch his.

His arms encircle her.

The kiss becomes deeper.

Ken barrels towards them, his face livid, "Get your hands off her!"

They break apart.

Joanna quickly steps in front of Rahula, "Daddy, stop. He didn't--"

Ken grasps her hand roughly, pulls her aside causing her to stumble and fall.

Rahula speeds towards her, "Joanna."

Ken, "Don't touch her."

Ken swings, hits Rahula in the jaw.

He falls.

Ken lunges at him.

Rahula rolls out of his way.

Ken sprawls onto the deck.

Joanna and Rahula spring up.

Joanna, "Rahula, go, quickly."

A worried Rahula looks at her, back at Ken who struggles up.

Joanna, "I'll be all right. Go."

Rahula backs up, with his hands held up.

Dawn runs up the jetty with Aaron not far behind.

Rahula, "I'm sorry. I'll leave."

Ken races at Rahula who dodges.

Ken plunges into the water.

Joanna, "Daddy!"

Aaron, "I'll help him. Go to the cabin, Rahula."

Dawn, "Ken attacked Rahula. Rahula was just defending himself."

Aaron glares at Dawn as he hauls up Ken.

Aaron, "Dawn, please, not now."

Rahula looks agonizingly at Joanna, whose face streams with tears.

Rahula retreats.

Dawn grabs his arm, prevents him.

Dripping and seething, Ken scrambles onto the jetty.

Aaron, "You okay?"

Ken, "Keep that boy away from my daughter."

Dawn, "Why? Do you think Joanna's too good for Rahula? A person's worth doesn't lie in their skin!"

Ken, "Spare me the soapbox."

Dawn, "It was only a kiss. Not like--"

Aaron, "Dawn, please--"

Dawn, "Please what! Ken hit Rahula! Violence is okay but kissing isn't?"

Cef and Sara hurry down the jetty with Laura, Stevie, Nat, Vicki and Sam in pursuit.

Joanna, "Aunt Dawn's right, Rahula didn't--"

Ken, "I didn't ask you. Joanna, go to the cottage, now!"

Joanna's eyes widen.

She doesn't move.

Rahula backs off.

Dawn, "Rahula, don't leave.-- Joanna's been flirting all night with him. Joanna, didn't you kiss him?"

Joanna nods.

Ken, "This is not the Supreme Court. Just keep that boy--"

Rahula, "I kissed her back."

Joanna giggles.

Aaron cracks a smile, looks admirably at Rahula.

Momentarily speechless, Dawn takes a deep breath, "As any healthy teenage boy would."

Ken, "Always were a stubborn bitch."

Cef arrives on the scene.

Aaron, "Let's all cool down. We needn't--"

Dawn, "Determined. Willing to stand up--"

Aaron, "For the sake of the family, can we all just cool off?"

Cef, "Hey man, bit cold for swimming."

Ken, "Ah, the clown has arrived. Go juggle your balls somewhere else."

Sara, Stevie, Nat and Vicki arrive.

A staggering Laura trails.

Sara, "Ken, you're soaked, you'll catch cold."

Stevie, "Frozen. Restart."

Sara, "Come and change. This platform isn't safe."

Laura, "Joanna, what have you been up to?"

Ken flops into one of the chairs, "Great, let's all have a sit in. Just your style, Dawn."

Nat to Stevie, "Sit in what?"

Joanna, "Daddy hit Rahula."

Stevie feels the platform rock.

The sparring adults block his way to the jetty so he points to a rowboat.

Stevie, to Nat, "The boat. The platform is about to vaporize."

Ken jumps up, glares at Dawn, "Succeeded in stirring up a big mess, haven't you? Why the hell was I ever attracted to you?"

Shocked, Laura wails, "Attracted to Dawn?"

In the background, Stevie steps into the boat.

Vicki and Nat appear unsure.

Rahula retreats up the jetty.

Ken, "Ho, ho, the cheating wife's now jealous."

As if slapped, Laura reels back, as all eyes turn towards her.

Cef steps between them, "Hey, we haven't done anything, leave her be."

Ken, "You leave her be!"

Ken floors Cef.

Chairs scatter.

Aaron grabs Ken as he moves toward the sprawled Cef.

Aaron, "Let's all get off the platform - it's not going to--"

Ken breaks free of Aaron's grasp, pushes him, "So you beat me once. Doesn't mean you can order me around. Ready for a re-fight?"

Vicki and Nat climb into the boat as the platform swings.

Aaron, "What happened to the pacifist?"

Sam, "Cut it out. You're grown men. Act like it."

Ken, "Smartass! Never had any respect, did you?"

Sara, "Please, can we all relax? Everyone's had too much to drink."

Dawn, "Respect is for those worthy of it."

Ken glares at Dawn.

On the shoreline, the manager and waiter with a megaphone look out to the crowded platform.

Waiter, "Everybody off the platform, immediately. Danger."

Stevie unties the boat and pushes it away from the platform just as it breaks off from the jetty and tips up.

Everyone screams as they tumble into the water.

Except for Rahula who stands safe on the jetty and the kids in the boat.

The manager shines a large floodlight towards the chaos.

Linda, Aunt Beth and Zoe race to and fro.

Bobby and Uncle Phil race up the jetty.

Sam thrashes.

Ken surfaces, gulps air, searches frantically.

Sam, "Sara can't swim! Sara!"

Ken, "Laura! Laura!"

Rahula sees Sara thrashing.

He dives in.

Floating debris obstructs Ken's view of the intoxicated Laura, who struggles in distress.

Athletic Dawn swims clear of the platform and debris.

Aaron, close to Laura, sprints towards her.

Sam swims around, wailing, "Sara!"

Rahula reaches Sara just as her head disappears under.

He grabs her quickly, pulls her above the surface.

She gulps air, her eyes wide with fright.

Rahula hurriedly checks her and pulls her towards the jetty.

Sam, "Rahula... got her!"

Sam madly swims after them.

Stevie, "Aaron, Mom - the boat!"

Aaron grasps and helps Laura to the boat.

The kids pull her up.

Seeing this, a struggling Ken searches for Joanna.

Bobby and Phil help pull Sara onto the jetty.

Rahula hoists himself up, "Nana!"

Sara hugs Rahula, "You saved my life."

Ken, "Joanna! Where's Joanna?"

Rahula spins around, anxiously searches for Joanna.

Dawn and Aaron, Cef and Ken swim around in a frenzy, scanning the water for her.

Joanna is nowhere to be seen.

The waiter blares on the megaphone, "Please come to shore quickly, the jetty is unstable."

Ken, his energy sagging, gulps water, coughs and tries to grab a floating timber.

Cef reaches for him.

Ken struggles, pushes him away.

Aaron firmly grabs Ken in a strong lifesaver's hold and pulls him towards the jetty.

Aaron, "Rahula, over here, quick."

Rahula hurries towards Aaron and Ken.

Rahula pulls up Ken.

Once on the jetty, Ken pushes Rahula away and spins around to search the water.

Rahula stumbles and rights himself.

Sara hurries towards Rahula and Ken, "There she is."

Joanna swims breaststroke towards the shore, her stroke smooth and graceful.

Rahula gazes at her moonlit form.

Ken lowers to the deck exhausted.

The megaphone blares, "Please come off the jetty."

Aaron hoists himself up and reaches for Dawn.

Bobby and Phil retreat down the jetty.

Sam and Sara, arms encircling Rahula, walk towards land.

Sam, "Thank you... grandson."

Sara, "You're an angel."

Aaron helps Cef out as Dawn hurries over to Ken who sits sprawled on the deck, slowly getting his strength back.

Dawn, "Are you okay?"

Ken, "No thanks to you. Satisfied?"

Aaron rushes over, holds out his hand for Ken.

Aaron, "We better get off the jetty."

Ken ignores him, struggles up and stomps away.

Dawn stares agape as Cef comes up.

Dawn, "You saved him and Laura."

Aaron, "So now he hates me three times as much."

Cef shakes his head, clasps his arm around Aaron's shoulders.

On the shore, Blake watches Joanna glide in.

He smiles.

Joanna wades out of the water.

Her wet dress clings sensuously to her young curvy body.

Blake, "From gorgeously innocent to deliciously sexy. Suits you even more."

Joanna wraps her arms over her breasts.

Blake, "I told you he'd freak out. We could've been enjoying ourselves right now."

Joanna, "The thought makes me want to throw up."

Sara, Sam and Rahula reach the shore.

Aunt Beth and Uncle Phil fuss over Sara and Sam.

Rahula sees Blake edging closer to Joanna, races towards them.

Rahula, "Joanna."

Blake spins around, "You learn slowly, coz. It's impossible."

Rahula gives Blake a penetrating stare.

Sara, "Joanna, you come with me."

Sam and Sara advance towards them.

Sara grasps Joanna's hand and leads her in the direction of the cottages.

Sara, "Blake, make yourself useful for a change, like Rahula."

Blake glares at Rahula and stomps away.

Sam slaps Rahula on the back.

Sam, "That boy's trouble."

Stevie and Nat row the boat in.

Stevie, "Land ho!"

Rahula wades to the boat, helps a staggering and shivering Laura out, holds her firmly as she slops through the water to reach Sam.

Sam puts his arm around her.

Sam, "Goodnight, Rahula. From now on, you call me, Poppa, all right?"

Rahula smiles, "Good night... Poppa."

Rahula watches them stumble away.

Stevie, Nat and Vicki hop out, slosh to shore.

Rahula, "Smart move, Stevie."

Vicki looks admiringly at Stevie.

Vicki, "Yeah, yeah-uh."

Deadpan Stevie pulls out his flash drive, "Didn't want to get my flash drive wet."

Nat and Vicki laugh.

Stevie, "You better vaporize."

Rahula turns to see Ken barrel towards them.

Giving Ken a wide circle, Rahula sprints past Ken who scowls at him.

Rahula slows down as he approaches Cef who exits the jetty ahead of Aaron and Dawn.

Cef gives Rahula the thumbs up, "Way to go, Rahula. Two for two."

Zoe races up to Cef.

They embrace.

Zoe, "Too old. Just can't take the weight."

Cef, "Yeah, I'll stick to the young and flexible."

Zoe giggles, races off with Cef in pursuit.

A dripping Aaron and Dawn exit the jetty.

Rahula waits anxiously.

Aaron hugs Rahula.

A pleased Dawn looks on.

Aaron, "I couldn't find her. Thank goodness you did."

They walk off.

* * * * *

Chapter 42 - Kenny

* * * * *

A bedraggled Laura, in a nightdress, flops down on the bed.

Joanna's voice, "This is ridiculous. I'm not thirteen."

Footsteps stomp up stairs.

Ken's voice, "And you're not eighteen."

A door slams.

A wet and fuming Ken enters, shuts the door, leans against it and looks at Laura.

She doesn't raise her head.

Laura, "You're a bit tough--"

Ken rips off his shirt, "I'm not the one who's been tough."

Laura stiffens.

She staggers up, tries to hug him.

He pulls away.

Tears fall.

Laura, "I'm sorry."

Ken, "Until Zoe, you didn't appear to be sorry at all."

Laura looks into his wounded face, "You were never home. And when you were home, you only complained. I was lonely."

Ken, "My heart bleeds."

Laura, "I love Kenny not Cef."

Ken shakes his head, disbelieving.

Laura, "But... he left two years ago. I wait every day for his return."

Ken appears confused.

Laura, "We used to share a life. Now we just share a house."

Ken, "You know it's not what I want. But there's no other way. We have to pay the bills."

Laura, "But what if we wait too long and there's nothing left?"

Ken, "What is left? Are you the same Laura?"

Laura's eyes plead for his embrace, "Can you be the same Kenny?"

He hugs her tightly.

They lie down in bed.

* * * * *

Chapter 43 - Uh-oh

* * * * *

In his cabin, Rahula ties the drawstring of dry pants, slips on a shirt.

Someone knocks.

He checks his watch, shakes his head.

He opens the door.

Anika.

She wears an Eastern style skirt and blouse; her hair cascades over her shoulders, a sparkling slide comb pulls back one side.

Rahula gazes at her exquisite, exotic beauty.

Anika, "I know how you must be feeling."

He looks down, confused and embarrassed.

Her voice cracks, a tear flows, which she wipes away, "And on top of everything else... I cried for a week."

Rahula's eyes glisten.

Anika enters, hugs him, "It's just so wonderful you're alive."

He yields to her warm embrace, "I, uh..."

Rahula pulls away, hesitant, "Your family?"

Anika, "In Boston. I'm on my own. This is a summer job. College starts again next week."

She smiles, enters and shuts the door.

* * * * *

Chapter 44 - Check on Rahula

* * * * *

Aaron and Dawn's cottage.

Aaron stares out of the window as Dawn walks back and forth.

Dawn, "Your brother is--"

Aaron, "Who he is! He'll never admit when he's wrong."

Dawn, "Exactly! So someone has to stand up to him. Why do you defend him?"

Aaron, "I'm not--"

Dawn, "Oh, come on."

Aaron, "Now?"

Aaron slides over to her, strokes her hair, smiles sexily, "It'd be better than talking about Ken."

Dawn cracks a smile but hangs on, "You're trying to change the subject."

Aaron, "You only gave him what he wanted."

Dawn, "What?"

Aaron, "He always wanted your attention. He's succeeded in getting it."

Dawn shakes her head in disbelief, "Ken? You must be joking."

Aaron's steady gaze communicates anything but a joke.

He lightens up, "Look on the bright side. Rahula saved Cef and Mom's life and he won over Cef and Dad. Ken's lost his allies."

Aaron pats the bed and gives her that look.

Dawn, "Later. I'm going to check on Rahula. He must feel so alone."

Aaron shakes his head firmly.

Dawn looks at him pleadingly.

Aaron, "Okay, I'll go."

Dawn smiles, "Thanks. He's so shy... about... that sort of thing."

* * * * *

Chapter 45 - Surprise

* * * * *

Rahula's cabin.

Anika approaches Rahula, tenderly.

He stiffens.

Anika murmurs, "Just flow, it's all right."

Rahula backs away, "No Anika, I--"

A knock on the door, "Rahula. It's Aaron."

Anika grins.

Rahula points to his bathroom, whispers, "Quick."

He bumps into a chair, knocking it over and yells to the door, "Just a moment."

Anika's large hairclip drops to the floor, as she darts into the bathroom and closes the door.

Rahula opens the cottage door a small way, trying to appear relaxed, "Yes?"

Aaron gives Rahula a suspicious look and adds sarcastically, "Practicing Kung Fu?"

Rahula, "Ah.... some moves."

Aaron pushes the door open and enters.

Rahula steps back, nervously.

Aaron glances at the overturned chair.

Rahula sees Anika's hairclip near the bathroom door and grimaces.

He offers Aaron a chair that faces away from the bathroom.

In the bathroom, Anika puts her ear to the door.

Aaron pulls up a chair that faces the bathroom.

Rahula sits down, purposely trying to block Aaron's view.

Aaron, "Dawn wanted me to talk to you about... girls."

Rahula, "Dad already--"

Aaron, "American girls. America is not Sri Lanka."

Anika smiles and nods.

She takes off her watch and puts it on the sink.

A small gecko runs over her foot.

Anika, "Oh!"

Aaron springs up.

Rahula, "Must be a squirrel. The bathroom windows are ridiculous."

In a flash, Rahula blocks Aaron's way, "I'll get it later. Can we talk tomorrow?"

The taller Aaron sees something on the floor, strides over, picks up the hairclip, "Shit, Joanna?"

Rahula, "No."

Aaron glares at Rahula, as he shakes the hairclip, "One hell of a big squirrel."

Rahula suppresses a smile.

Aaron loses it, "Damn it, Rahula, Ken's going to hit the roof!"

Aaron grabs the handle, tries to open it, "Joanna, come out, right now!"

Rahula, "It's not Joanna."

The door opens.

Anika sneaks out sheepishly leaving Aaron agape, "Nice to meet you, Doctor."

She grabs the hairclip and sways to the door, "Good night, Rahula. It was..."

She smiles, "Nice."

She leaves.

Aaron stares at Rahula, who squirms under his gaze, "I'll buy you condoms tomorrow... or am I too late?"

Rahula, "We didn't--"

Aaron, "Good. Say good-bye to med school if you get some girl pregnant."

Rahula smiles, "I was born while Dad was at Med school."

Taken aback, Aaron sizes up Rahula, shakes his head, "So, I need to sleep here?"

Rahula, "No. I get your point."

Aaron, "Good thing she didn't get yours."

* * * * *

Chapter 46 - The Watch

* * * * *

Anika approaches her staff room just as the waiter comes out of his.

He smirks, "Bit young, isn't he?"

Anika straightens, pushes the key into her door, "And very rich."

She enters, goes to close the door.

He steps into the doorway, "So did you score?"

She smiles dreamily, "Not yet. He's so... deliciously innocent."

Waiter, "Didn't want to lose it to you, eh?"

She snaps back, "His adopted Dad interrupted."

The waiter steps aside.

Anika, "Later. I left my watch."

She smiles, closes the door.

* * * * *

Chapter 47 - Squirrels

* * * * *

Dawn combs her hair nervously.

Footsteps.

She jumps up, races to the door and opens it before Aaron can.

He enters, face deadpan.

Dawn, "Is he okay?"

Aaron grins, "Just fine."

Dawn, "Thank you, I knew--"

Aaron, "Yeah, good timing."

Aaron chuckles.

Dawn, "What's so funny?"

Aaron, "Squirrels sure are big here."

Dawn gives him a look of total incomprehension.

* * * * *

Chapter 48 - Next

* * * * *

Joanna, in dark clothes with a navy scarf over her hair creeps down her cottage stairs, tiptoes to the front door.

She slides the security chain off, grabs the handle, slowly turns it.

As she opens the door, it squeaks.

She stops, waits, listens.

Silence.

She steps outside, closes the door.

* * * * *

Rahula gazes at Anika's watch, shakes his head, puts it down on the table and walks to his bed.

A knock.

Rahula picks up the watch and opens the door.

Joanna pulls off her scarf and smiles.

Speechless, Rahula quickly stuffs the watch in his pocket, steps outside and closes the door, "Joanna. No, you can't--"

Joanna, "I couldn't sleep. I feel so bad about--"

Rahula, "Your father will kill me. You have to go back."

A tear runs down Joanna's cheek, crushing Rahula's resolve.

They hug.

He kisses her tenderly.

He pulls himself away, touches her face, "Please, Joanna go back. I... like... love you too much."

Anika, "I see I'm too late to share the rest of tonight with you. So can I please have my watch?"

They spin around to see an irritated Anika step forward.

Joanna's mouth drops open.

An embarrassed Rahula quickly gives the watch to Anika.

She looks at him sexily, "You have my phone number... or I could come back later... when your family commitments are finished."

Anika sashays off.

Super jealous, Joanna spins around to Rahula, "Sorry for spoiling your chances."

She strides away.

Rahula catches up to her, "Anika's just an old friend."

Joanna, "Are you in the habit of spending the night with your old friends?"

Rahula, "Joanna, I fell in love with you the moment I saw you."

Joanna stops, looks into his pleading, tender expression.

Rahula, "You take me to a place I've never known before... but how can you and I--"

Joanna, "How did your mother and father?"

She throws herself into his arms.

They kiss.

Rahula, "But you have to go back. We'll never have a chance if you don't."

He kisses her again, "I'll take you."

Holding hands, they disappear into the darkness.

* * * * *

Rahula and Joanna get close to the lighted parking lot.

They kiss, reluctantly part.

Joanna looks back longingly as she crosses the lot.

Rahula watches until she disappears.

He smiles.

* * * * *

Asleep in bed, Laura lies wrapped in Ken's arms.

* * * * *

Joanna slips off her shoes, opens the cottage front door.

It creaks as it opens.

She grimaces, stops.

Ken opens his eyes, listens.

Silence.

He shuts his eyes.

Joanna slips inside.

Closes the door.

Creak.

Joanna freezes.

Ken's eyes open.

He gently slips his arms free from Laura, listens, then shakes his head.

He plumps the pillow and sinks back into it.

Joanna slips the security chain on, tiptoes to the stairs, gently climbs, and creeps to her room.

A floorboard squeals.

She disappears into her room while stripping off her blouse.

Ken leaps out of bed, hurries to the living area, flips on the light, looks around.

He climbs the stairs.

Joanna finishes slipping a nightdress over her head, drops her jeans to the floor.

She wanders out, stretching her arms as if sleepy, sees Ken heading towards her, "Oh, it's you, Daddy. I thought I heard something."

Ken, "In the habit of sleeping in a scarf?"

Joanna puts her hand to her head, smiles nervously.

Joanna, "Styling gel."

Ken relaxes, "Place must be haunted."

* * * * *

Chapter 49 - Sara's plan

* * * * *

Sam, Sara, Aaron and Dawn finish their breakfast in the resort restaurant.

A fifth empty plate lies on the table.

Aaron shakes his head, "Mom, I think you've been reading too many child psychology books."

Sara, "Will you do it?"

Dawn, "Honey? It just might--"

Sam, "It's mad, Ken needs a real shrink."

Sara, "Aaron?"

Aaron, "Mom, for you, the moon."

* * * * *

Chapter 50 - Men!

* * * * *

Inside Ken and Laura's cottage.

Loud knocks on the door.

Ken staggers out of the bedroom, "Who the hell is it?"

Dawn, "Dawn."

Ken, "Shit."

He limps to the door, raises his voice, "Not a good time."

Dawn, "Mom and Dad want everyone at their cottage."

Ken opens the door quickly and steps outside.

Dawn, "Is everything all right?"

Ken gives her a sarcastic look, "Just wonderful."

Dawn tenses up, acts official, "You may get the rest of the family to play your game..."

Loving the attention and challenge, Ken gives Dawn a sexy smile which unnerves her.

Dawn, "...but I'm not into your crap. If you want--"

Ken, "You. Yes."

Dawn gives him an exasperated look.

Ken, "Would you help my lovely wife?"

Dawn, "Why?"

Ken, "She's got one hell of a hangover."

Ken gives Dawn a look of helplessness, "I can't do anything with her."

Dawn, "Men, haven't got a clue!"

Dawn opens the door, marches inside.

Ken smiles.

* * * * *

Chapter 51 - New operating system

* * * * *

Cef's cabin.

In bed, Zoe lies in Cef's arms.

Loud knocks on the door.

Stevie, "Cef! Cef!"

Dreary, Cef opens his eyes, "Huh?"

Zoe wakes.

Stevie, "System restart! Get over to Nana and Popa's cottage without crashing."

Cef, "What's the rush?"

Stevie, "Unknown. Rumor is top secret. Maybe a new operating system."

Zoe and Cef look bewildered at each other.

* * * * *

Chapter 52 - The Rematch

* * * * *

Sam and Sara's cottage.

Everyone sits around Sam and Sara.

Sara, "I have a special wish for this anniversary, but our sons must approve."

Cef, "Whatever you want, Mom, it's yours."

Aaron, "I'll second that."

Everyone turns to Ken.

Ken, "Uh, sure, Mom, what's your special wish?"

Sara pulls out the kids' boxing photo showing Aaron the winner, "I believe your father ended the fight prematurely. I want to see a rematch."

Pandemonium as everyone except Sam, Aaron and Dawn express surprise.

Joanna, "What!"

Cef, "Mom, are you serious?"

Ken snickers, "Sounds good."

Laura, "Sara, what are you doing?"

Stevie, "System haywire."

Rahula looks over at Aaron.

Aaron nods to him.

Sam, "Now, now, quiet, let your mother/grandmother explain."

Sara, "Kenneth Adam Evan, I am absolutely tired of your jealousy to Aaron."

Silence.

Ken frowns.

Sara, "You have hated Aaron since he won the fight. It doesn't even matter to you that Aaron saved your life."

Ken drops his head.

Sara, "Last night, he saved you again. And he saved Laura. Rahula saved me, yet you take your anger toward Aaron and hold it against Rahula, also."

Sara grabs a bag behind her chair.

She pulls out two sets of boxing gloves, "You will have one chance to take out your anger on Aaron. But if Aaron wins again, you will agree to stop being jealous."

* * * * *

Outside, everyone mills around.

Many thoroughly confused.

Sara sits regally in a lawn chair.

Sam holds the gloves.

Stevie stands on a table, holding a camera.

Dawn's arm hangs around Rahula's shoulders.

On one side, Cef talks with Aaron, "You're not really going to do this?"

Aaron, "Mom's wish."

Cef, "Shit!"

On another side, Joanna and Laura talk with Ken.

Laura, "Honey, please don't."

Ken grins a killer's grin.

Joanna, "Daddy, this is insane."

Ken, "Mom's wish."

He laughs.

Hugging each other, Joanna and Laura back away, shaking their heads.

Sam, "Okay, gloves."

Aaron and Ken come over.

Sam slides on the gloves, ties them, "Three-minute rounds."

Ken, "Yeah, yeah."

Dawn whispers in Rahula's ear, hands him car keys.

Sam, "No hitting below the belt."

Rahula looks at Dawn in surprise.

She nods.

He looks over at Sara.

She smiles.

Sam, "Knockout means you're down for ten."

Rahula leaves.

Ken, "We've heard this before."

Sam, "Sara's ruled out TKOs this time. We go for the knockout."

Cef rushes in between Aaron and Ken, "This is crazy! I'm not going to allow this."

Sara, "Cef, we don't have another set of gloves."

Cef, "Mom! What are you doing!"

Aaron, "Cef, stand aside."

Ken, "Hah! Unless you want me to knock you out, too?"

Cef frowns at Ken, who grins and pumps his gloves.

Totally unbelieving, Cef looks at Aaron.

Aaron shrugs.

Cef backs off, plunks in a chair, "Unreal, totally unreal."

Stevie, "Program crashed. Time to upgrade."

Sam, "You two ready?"

Ken bounces up and down, "I'll crush him."

He glowers at Aaron.

Aaron, "Nice day."

Sam shoots a quick look at Sara, who nods.

Sam, "Only way to end this silliness once and for all.-- Stevie?"

Stevie waves his camera, "Photoshop on."

Sam, "Okay, pre-fight photo. Get ready."

Ken stands like a pro.

Aaron looks at the lake.

Stevie, "One, two... Uncle Aaron, look this way."

Aaron turns toward Stevie.

Stevie, "Three."

Aaron winks.

Click.

Stevie, "System responding strangely."

Sam, "Final fight. Winner takes the title and that'll be it. No re-fights, this is it. Right?"

Ken, "My title, finally."

Ken sneers at Aaron, who glances at the parking lot, where Rahula opens Sam and Sara's trunk.

Aaron looks back, gives Ken a stern look, "As Mom wishes."

Ken's cheek twitches.

Aaron, "Dawn?"

Dawn pulls out a lollypop, tosses it to Cef.

Cef, "Yeah, sure."

Laura, "This is ridiculous!"

Cef unwraps it, pops it in his mouth, "Anything else you bozos want."

Sara, "Cef!"

Cef, "For you, Mom."

He puts his thumb in his mouth with the lollypop.

Sam, "And a photo at the end, showing the winner, then it's clear, right?"

Aaron, "Right."

Ken, "I'm gonna teach you respect!"

Aaron looks over at the lake.

Ken, "You hear me?"

Ken fumes, "Aaron!"

Aaron turns, outstretches his arms, as if inviting a hug, "Ring the bell, Dad."

Sam, "Okay. Ready."

Ken raises his gloves.

Aaron stays with outstretched arms.

Unseen to Ken, Laura and Joanna, Rahula approaches, lugging a huge something underneath a tarp cover.

Stevie takes Rahula's photo.

Cef pulls the lollypop out.

Sam rings the bell.

Ken bounces left and right.

Aaron doesn't move.

Ken, "What the shit are you doing?"

Aaron, "You going to hit me or not?"

Ken, "Sure, come on, fight."

Aaron, "Hit me."

Ken, "Fight!"

Aaron, "Hit me."

Ken pauses, looks at Aaron's open body, eyes his stomach.

He licks his lips, pumps his gloves, "Chicken."

Aaron, "Hit me, beat me, kill me."

Rahula comes within ten feet, drops the bundle, with a thud.

Ken glances at Rahula, returns with a stare at Aaron.

Ken, "Come on!"

Aaron, "If I had known what was going to happen when I won the fight..."

Rahula pulls off the tarp, exposing Ken's mangled bike.

Aaron, "I would have done this then."

Ken lowers his gloves.

Sara, "Ken."

Ken turns to Sara, who motions towards Rahula.

Ken looks over at the bike.

He remembers:

-- Aaron and Ken ride their bikes in the storm.

-- A lightening bolt brightens the sky.

-- Two seconds later, thunder.

-- Aaron, 13, jumps off his bike and tries to block Ken, 15.

-- Aaron, "Kenny, get off, get off!"

-- Ken, "I'll mow you down."

-- Aaron, "Kenny!"

Ken's face hardens.

More memories:

-- Ken veers to miss Aaron.

-- Aaron jumps and knocks Ken down.

-- Ken screams as his left leg crumples beneath him with a snap.

-- The broken bone pierces the flesh.

-- Ken, "Shit, ow, my leg!"

Ken charges Aaron, shoves him in the chest, "Fight me, damn it!"

Aaron staggers backwards from the push, but keeps his arms outstretched.

He looks over at the bike.

Ken puts his gloves to his face, covering it, "Stop it!"

The full story:

-- Aaron hurriedly drags Ken's bike away as Ken laments.

-- Aaron races back to Ken.

-- A flash.

-- Lightning strikes Ken's bike.

-- The impact bowls Aaron to the ground.

-- The bike lies in a mangled mess.

-- Ken stares at it.

-- Aaron scrambles over to Ken who shoves him away.

-- Ken, "Don't touch me, you shit head!"

-- Devastated, Aaron races off.

-- Aaron, "I'll get help."

Gloves over his face, Ken's whole body shakes.

Aaron, "I'm sorry I broke your leg. I'm glad you didn't die."

Sara, "Kenny, I'm glad you didn't die."

Laura comes over, gives Ken a hug, "I'm glad you didn't die."

Behind the gloves, Ken cries.

His shoulders slouch.

Joanna races to Ken, gives him a hug, "Daddy."

Sam approaches, puts his hand on Ken's shoulder, "It's okay, Ken, it's okay."

Ken lowers his gloves, tears run down his face.

He looks at Aaron, whose arms are still outstretched.

Ken, "I'm glad I didn't die."

Ken hugs Aaron.

Stevie, "System update finished."

They all surround and hug Ken and Aaron.

* * * * *

Chapter 53 - Perfect

* * * * *

Everyone poses.

Sam adjusts his camera, checks his light meter and peers into the viewfinder.

Sara sits next to an empty chair.

Below her kneel Rahula, Joanna and Stevie.

Behind Sara stand Zoe, Laura, and Dawn with their partners behind them, arms encircling their waists.

Truly content, Ken smiles for the first time.

He has one arm around Aaron's shoulders.

Sam, "Nope. Off balance."

Sam grabs another chair, carries it over as everyone looks at him questioningly.

Stevie, Joanna and Rahula hop up.

Sam places it next to the other empty chair.

Sam turns to Rahula, sweeps his hand to the middle chair, "Rahula, sit here."

An embarrassed Rahula sits.

Sam, "Joanna and Stevie sit in front of Rahula."

They sit.

Joanna slides her hand around Rahula's leg.

Sam looks into the camera, nods with satisfaction, "Perfect. Okay everyone, one, two, three, go, smile."

Sam zooms to the empty chair.

Everyone beams.

The camera clicks.

* * * * *

The end

About the Author

Thank you for reading "Get Updated, System's Archaic", one of Steve Weissman's 13 stories now available worldwide. We hope you enjoyed the "journey" with Rahula, Joanna, Dawn, Aaron, Laura, Kenny, Sara, Sam 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 "Get Updated, System's Archaic" 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 "Get Updated, System's Archaic" 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