EXT. HIKING TRAIL -- AFTERNOON

SUSAN (19 year old pretty female) walks down a trail. We hear HOWARD (21 years old, very personable).

HOWARD (V.O.)

I don't know what happened. She slipped or something. She just suddenly wasn't there.

Susan slips and then slides over the edge of the trail.

HOWARD (V.O.) (CONT'D)

I ran up there as fast as I could.

Howard runs up to where Susan fell and leans over. About 10' down the cliff Susan hangs on to a branch with her hands. The rest of her dangles over a 100' drop. She looks absolutely panicked and cries with fear.

HOWARD (V.O.) (CONT'D)

I started climbing down to grab her. There were some other branches so I was able to move on down toward her.

Howard scrambles down toward Susan.

SUSAN

Oh my god HURRY!

HOWARD

Hang on, just hang on, I'm coming.

Howard scrambles closer to Susan. ECU on Susan's fingers. They slowly lose their grip on the branch.

SUSAN (O.S.)

I'm slipping. Please hurry. What's taking you so long?

HOWARD (O.S.)

I'm almost there. You can hang on another couple of seconds.

Howard's hand shoots into view and brushes by Susan's fingers reaching for her wrist. As it brushes by Susan's fingers, her fingers slip completely off the branch

Susan screams.

INT. POLICE STATION -- AFTERNOON

Howard bends over by a desk, his head buried in his hands. He sobs. A police officer sits at the desk.

Susan's scream is fading.

HOWARD

If only I had been closer. If only I had been faster. It's all my fault that she died.

EXT. PARK -- DAY

SUPERIMPOSE TITLE "THREE YEARS LATER"

Howard and VIVIAN (23 pretty female, professional appearance) sit in a park on a blanket. A picnic basket is opened.

Howard removes lunch from the basket while Vivian sits, letting Howard do most of the work.

FADE TITLE

VIVIAN

This is so sweet of you darling.

HOWARD

It's the least we could do to celebrate.

VIVIAN

I may not get it. There's a lot of really good people at work and they are just as qualified.

HOWARD

You deserve it babe. You're good and you've helped everyone else there whenever they've needed it.

VIVIAN

I hope I get it. I think I can do a good job.

HOWARD

You'll get it. Now stop worrying and enjoy the day. What else should we do to celebrate?

VIVIAN

What do you want to do honey? You're always doing things for me. You pick for once.

HOWARD

(arching eyebrows)

Well...

VIVIAN

Oh brother. Is that all you ever think about?

HOWARD

It's just that I love you so much.

VIVIAN

(smiling)

Let's at least finish lunch first. You need to build up your energy - for later.

Howard reaches over, embraces Vivian, and gives her a passionate kiss. Vivian hugs Howard tightly.

INT. VIVIAN'S OFFICE -- DAY

Vivian collects her things to go home.

Several people enter the office including MARGIE, TAMMY (late 20's, competent appearance) and MICHAEL (mid 30's, very attractive).

TAMMY

Way to go. Your first major account.

VIVIAN

Thanks guys. But I have to get going. Howard will be downstairs any minute.

MICHAEL

Hey, Howard's cool. He'll understand.

MARGIE

Viv, how'd you score such a catch? Does he have a brother?

Howard enters the office smiling.

HOWARD

Margie, how's your son's soccer team doing?

MARGIE

Undefeated. Thanks for asking.

HOWARD

Nice to see you again, Michael.

VIVIAN

Howard, sorry for the delay. They just all came in at the last minute.

HOWARD

That's okay sweetie. But we need to go. I'm double parked.

VIVIAN

Okay, bye everyone. Thanks.

INT. VIVIAN'S OFFICE BY ELEVATORS -- MOMENTS LATER

Howard and Vivian stand alone by the elevators.

HOWARD

Why weren't you waiting for me downstairs?

VIVIAN

I was saying goodbye. I didn't want to just walk out on my friends.

HOWARD

We've been over this before. When I say I'll be by at 5:00 to pick you up, then you need to be down there

VIVIAN

This isn't fair.

HOWARD

If we get a parking ticket it comes out of your lunch money.

VIVIAN

But...

HOWARD

This conversation is over.

Howard turns and smiles as the elevator opens. Amber (21 years old, stunning) gets off.

HOWARD (CONT'D)

(to Amber)

Congrats on landing the Smithson account.

AMBER

Why thank you Howard. Wherever did you find him Viv?

Howard reaches out and holds Vivian's hand as they go on the elevator.

EXT. YUPPIE RESTAURANT OUTSIDE PORCH -- LUNCHTIME

Vivian and Tammy eat at a table. Vivian has a large sandwich on her plate.

VIVIAN

I feel like I'm not appreciative. Everyone tells me how lucky I am. And I should feel lucky. But I don't.

TAMMY

You shouldn't. He's always telling you what to do.

VIVIAN

Because he cares. I shouldn't be eating this much.

Vivian looks around guiltily

TAMMY

You're afraid he'll show up and see you eating too much?  There's a problem here Viv.

VIVIAN

This account, it let's me show what I can do. And I can do it. I can.

TAMMY

Show what to who?  Everyone at work knows you're good.

VIVIAN

Why can't I just order a salad like I should?  I've got to get in control.

TAMMY

Doing what he wants isn't controlling things Viv.

VIVIAN

Do you think I can handle this account?

TAMMY

Only if you get some food in you. Eat.

INT. YUPPIE BAR -- LUNCHTIME

Howard sits at a table with a bunch of his friends, all male, all associates at the same major law firm. All have lunch and a beer, most are just drinking.

CHUCK

...so I was at the bar and asked her if she wanted to adjourn to my room.  She cost me fifty bucks but what a mouth.

FRANK

Charged it to the client I hope.

CHUCK

What kind of lawyer do you think I am?  Of course I did.

ECU ON LEFT HANDS - ALL ARE WEARING A WEDDING RING.

FRANK

I just bonk my secretary when I'm in the mood.

LAWYER #3

Old girlfriend from school. Thinks I'm going to leave the wife.

BACK TO SCENE

FRANK

So, is Viv that good or are you just too nice a guy to cheat on her?

HOWARD

I'm just happy with her.

(nods towards  approaching waitress)

But I can still appreciate a nice set of hooters.

ROBERT (early 50s, distinguished) enters the restaurant.

CHUCK

(nods toward Robert)

Watch what you say gentlemen.

HOWARD

Those assholes give us all the work.  We fucking live there.  And then they go present our work to the client and take all the credit.  Hell, I doubt Robert even understands half the stuff we give him. And we have to quietly eat their shit for the next ten years until we can be partners. If there was any justice we'd be partners now.

FRANK

Howard, I don't fucking believe it.

CHUCK

What, you like eating shit from the partners?

FRANK

I can't believe that Mister Perfect said this. Howard, you're the man.

Robert approaches the table.

ROBERT

How are you doing boys? Keeping up on your work? Not too overloaded?

HOWARD

(smiling)

Just great sir. And we really appreciate the opportunity we have to work with you.

ROBERT

Well don't stay down here too long. You all have work to do.

ALL OTHERS

Thank you sir.

INT. HOWARD & VIVIAN'S KITCHEN -- MORNING

Howard leans against a counter ready to leave.

HOWARD

So you draw a picture of a family eating at a restaurant. Any twelve year old can do that.

VIVIAN (O.S.)

It takes a lot to create a compelling ad. You think it's so easy just because you've never done it.

HOWARD

Well, if you ever get stuck, let me know. I can spare five minutes to help you out. And then I'd...

Vivian walks into the room. She wears a blouse that you can make the outlines of her bra through.

Vivian looks mad and appears about to speak when she notices Howard staring at her.

VIVIAN

What?

HOWARD

You're not wearing that to work.

VIVIAN

Why not?

HOWARD

Because it's totally unprofessional.

VIVIAN

What's totally unprofessional?

HOWARD

That blouse, it makes you look like a slut.

VIVIAN

This is bullshit, let's get going. I don't want to be late.

HOWARD

I'm not leaving until you change.

Howard leans against the door.

They stare at each other for several seconds.

VIVIAN

God damn it, I have to get to work.

Vivian turns back into the bedroom.

VIVIAN (O.S.) (CONT'D)

We need to get a second car. This isn't working.

HOWARD

We can't afford another car, not with the small salary you make.  And we work so close together it makes sense to carpool.

Vivian walks out in a new blouse.

VIVIAN

Happy?

HOWARD

Much better.

Howard puts his arms around Vivian and gives her a big hug. Vivian tenses in the hug and then relaxes.

INT. VIVIAN'S OFFICE -- DAY

Vivian and Michael are in Vivian's office.

VIVIAN

I don't know. I don't think it reaches out and grabs you.

MICHAEL

I think it's good. It definitely peaks my interest. You're really good, you know that?

VIVIAN

(smiling)

Anything sexual awakens your interest.

MICHAEL

Ok, so you've got the male half of the human race covered.

VIVIAN

That leaves the thinking half of the human race.

MICHAEL

That's your department. I await the inspiration from my brilliant partner.

VIVIAN

Boy are we in trouble then.

Howard walks in to the office. He smiles. Vivian starts at his entrance.

HOWARD

I thought I would take my lovely wife to lunch.

(to Michael)

Congrats on the ad campaign. I hear it's progressing beautifully. I'm sure it's all due to your work.

MICHAEL

Thanks. But your wife is the real genius behind it.

HOWARD

Oh, I'm sure she helps a little where she can. It's nice of you to give her some credit.

MICHAEL

I'll see you later Viv.

Howard closes the door behind Michael. Vivian smiles and gets up.

HOWARD

Now I see why you wanted to wear that other blouse.

VIVIAN

What are you talking about?

HOWARD

How long have you been fucking him?

VIVIAN

What the hell are you talking about?

HOWARD

Hey, I'm not the one who wanted to show my boobs to the entire company this morning.

VIVIAN

It was not showing anything. It was a silk blouse for christ sakes.

HOWARD

So, are you having an affair?

VIVIAN

No, I'm not having an affair.  I'm married to you Howard.  I love you. Remember, the vows go "till death do we part."

HOWARD

Let's go to lunch.

EXT. YUPPIE RESTAURANT OUTSIDE PORCH -- LUNCHTIME

Vivian and Tammy eat lunch. Vivian constantly looks around nervously.

TAMMY

I don't know what else to call it but abuse.

VIVIAN

Howard would never hit me.

TAMMY

So? Listen Viv, emotional abuse is still abuse. This is wrong.

VIVIAN

Work is awfully hard for him right now. They work him like a slave and no one appreciates what he does.

TAMMY

You're going to get whiplash if you keep looking for him all the time.

VIVIAN

Huh, looking for who?

TAMMY

You're scared someone is going to see us here.

VIVIAN

I don't know what to do. He's my husband and I love him.

TAMMY

Does he love you?

VIVIAN

Of course he loves me.

TAMMY

Then tell him to stop treating you like this.

VIVIAN

I don't know if I can do that...

EXT. RUGBY FIELD -- DAY

A Rugby game starts in 10 minutes. A team Howard plays on is on one side of the field along with their friends & families.

Howard & Vivian walk up to join everyone.

HOWARD

You look really nice today.

VIVIAN

Thanks. I hope you win.

HOWARD

Do you know how much I love you?

They stop walking and turn to face each other directly. Vivian's back is to the other players and Howard motions to one of them.

VIVIAN

Yes. I love you too.

A ball is thrown from behind Vivian so it barely misses Vivian's head and Howard catches it.  Vivian flinches as she sees it go by.

HOWARD

You are so important to me.

Howard throws the ball back right by Vivian's head.

VIVIAN

Howard please, I don't like that.

Vivian's head darts back and forth watching the person with the ball and then Howard.

HOWARD

We're just playing catch. What's wrong with that?

VIVIAN

Howard, please

Vivian stares at Howard. Suddenly the ball shoots by her again. Vivian ducks as it passes and Howard laughs.

Vivian turns and starts to walk away. As she turns a necklace she is wearing swings out.

VIVIAN (CONT'D)

You go play. I'm going to join the others.

HOWARD

What's that?

VIVIAN

What?

HOWARD

That necklace.

Howard throws the ball back and Vivian flinches again.

VIVIAN

Tammy gave it to me, why?

HOWARD

Take it off. You are not to wear it.

VIVIAN

What are you talking about?

The ball shoots by Vivian's head again.

VIVIAN (CONT'D)

Howard, please stop!

Howard throws the ball back and then reaches up and jerks the necklace off of Vivian.

HOWARD

I've bought you plenty of necklaces to wear. An appreciative wife would wear the necklaces I bought her.

VIVIAN

Give it back. It's a special present from Tammy.

HOWARD

Hey Chuck, pass!

The ball comes whizzing past Vivian's head again. Vivian ducks. Howard kisses Vivian and runs over to the team.

HOWARD (CONT'D)

Watch me kick some butt babe.

INT. HOWARD & VIVIAN'S LIVING ROOM -- EVENING

Howard & Vivian sit in the living room talking.

VIVIAN

I just can't take this anymore. I know things are rough at work but...

HOWARD

You're wrong. I always worry about you first and me second.

VIVIAN

Throwing the ball at Rugby by my head scared me.

HOWARD

I'm sorry hon. We were just having fun. I thought you were having fun too.

VIVIAN

It scared me Howard. And you can't take my necklace. It was a present.

HOWARD

But what about the necklaces I bought you. Don't you like them?

VIVIAN

I like them. But tell me you'll stop.

HOWARD

Stop what?

VIVIAN

God damn it Howard, all of it. You won't throw the ball by my head and you won't take my necklace.

HOWARD

Fine. I won't play catch near you and you can wear any necklace you want. Wear one that says bitch if you want.

VIVIAN

Stop it Howard. Stop it. Don't call me a bitch.

HOWARD

Calm down. I was just telling you that you can wear any necklace you want. That's all. Don't get upset.

VIVIAN

Don't get upset?  I have every right to get upset after the way you've treated me.

HOWARD

Treated you how? I'm agreeing with you. What more do you want.

VIVIAN

Fine, then stop accusing me of having an affair. I don't even look at other men.

HOWARD

I've seen how Michael looks at you. He'd like to jump you. What am I supposed to think?

VIVIAN

You're supposed to know that I would never do that. I love you.

HOWARD

Ok, I'll stop asking. I only did it because I love you.

VIVIAN

And you'll stop telling me what to do?

HOWARD

I don't do that.

VIVIAN

If you don't do that then you can promise to stop can't you?

HOWARD

Fine! I won't tell you what to do. Is it okay if I tell you not to step in front of a speeding car at least?

VIVIAN

Sure, whatever.

HOWARD

I'll do whatever you want Vivian. You know that. Just promise you won't leave me.

FLASHBACK -- EXT. HIKING TRAIL -- AFTERNOON

Susan and Howard walk down the trail together.

SUSAN

It's over Howard. You won't change.

HOWARD

You can't leave me Susan. I won't let you.

SUSAN

You just don't get it, do you. I won't let you run my life. That's why it's over.

HOWARD

No!

Howard pushes Susan, and she slides over the side of the trail.

SUSAN

Oh my god! Help me. Howard, what are you doing?

Howard runs up to where Susan fell and leans over. About 10' down the cliff Susan hangs on to a branch with her hands. The rest of her dangles over a 100' drop. She looks absolutely panicked and cries with fear.

SUSAN (CONT'D)

Help me Howard. Oh my god hurry.

Howard scrambles down toward Susan.

SUSAN (CONT'D)

Please hurry, I'm slipping!

HOWARD

You were going to leave me.

Howard is right above the branch Susan is holding on to.

SUSAN

I'm slipping. Please help me.

HOWARD

Tell me you won't leave me.

SUSAN

Oh my god Howard, please help me. I won't leave you, I promise.

Howard reaches down and grabs both of Susan's arms.

SUSAN (CONT'D)

Oh thank god Howard. Thank you.

HOWARD

You promise? You won't leave me? Ever?

Susan looks up at Howard in fear.

SUSAN

I promise. I'll never leave you.

Howard pulls Susan's arms up a little and she lets go of the branch to continue up. He then freezes and looks at her.

HOWARD

I don't believe you.

Howard let's go of Susan and she falls.

Susan screams.

BACK TO PRESENT DAY

INT. HOWARD'S BED -- NIGHT

Howard shoots up in bed in a sweat. He appears very scared. He looks over at Vivian who sleeps.

HOWARD

Don't leave me Vivian. Please don't leave me.

INT. HOWARD & VIVIAN'S KITCHEN -- MORNING

Howard leans against the counter ready to leave. He walks over to Vivian's purse, opens it, and removes her credit cards. He then closes it and puts it back as it was.

Vivian walks into the kitchen and picks up her purse.

VIVIAN

I need the car today.

HOWARD

Why?

VIVIAN

I need to go see a client.

HOWARD

Tell me when, I'll drive you.

VIVIAN

I'm a professional. I don't want my husband driving me to a meeting.

HOWARD

Why not? Is there something you don't want me to see?

VIVIAN

Just let me have the car today.

HOWARD

No. It's my car.

VIVIAN

I thought it was our car. Okay, I'll have Michael drive me.

HOWARD

I forbid it.

VIVIAN

You forbid what? No more Howard! God-damn-it, no fucking more!  Either give me the god-damn car, or drop me off and I'll go with Michael. But stop this shit now.

HOWARD

Jesus Christ. I try to help you out, I offer to drive you to your appointment, and all you do is yell at me. Go with Michael if you want.

VIVIAN

You weren't trying to help me out. You don't trust me.

INTERCUT -- VIVIAN'S & HOWARD'S OFFICES -- MORNING

Vivian and Tammy are in Vivian's office. Vivian is on the phone to Howard.

VIVIAN

I don't know where I lost them. But they're gone.

Howard is sitting at his desk.

HOWARD

All of them?

VIVIAN

Yes, all of them.

HOWARD

So what do you want me to do? You lost them.

VIVIAN

You need to call the card companies and get my cards stopped. The accounts are in your name.

HOWARD

If they will issue you new cards.

VIVIAN

What do you mean if?

HOWARD

You lost them. They may not be willing to give you another set to lose.

VIVIAN

I think that's a load of bull.  Call them and tell them to issue me new cards.

HOWARD

I'll ask them.

END INTERCUT

Vivian slams the phone and turns to Tammy.

VIVIAN

This is terrific. No bank account, no credit cards. What next, a weekly allowance?

TAMMY

You've gotta get away from him Viv. He's trying to take over your life.

VIVIAN

So how do I leave him? I have no money. I have nothing.

TAMMY

You get up and leave. You make good money here. You start building your life back up. It's not like you're leaving a lot.

VIVIAN

And do I just give up on my marriage like that? No more discussion? No more trying?

TAMMY

It takes two to tango. He's not trying.

VIVIAN

And just say goodbye to two years of my life? Just flush it all away?

TAMMY

He's an abusive spouse. You have to get out of there.

VIVIAN

And maybe a lot of it is my fault. Some of it certainly is. Maybe I just need to... I don't know.

TAMMY

Listen to yourself. Where's the kick-ass Viv? Look what he's done to your self-confidence.

VIVIAN

I need my next paycheck. I have no money until then.

ALFREDO (50s, executive type) walks in shaking with anger.

ALFREDO

(pointing at Tammy)

You, out now!

Tammy looks frightened at Alfredo and then Tammy and then runs from the room.

ALFREDO (CONT'D)

I don't know where the fuck you get off doing this. But you're fired. I want you out of this office in five minutes.

VIVIAN

What did I do? Why are you mad at me?

ALFREDO

And I'll do my damndest to make sure no one else ever hires you.

VIVIAN

What did I do? Please tell me.

ALFREDO

You know damn well what you did. You're lucky I'm giving you five minutes to get your shit.

Alfredo turns toward the door and on his way out turns toward Vivian.

ALFREDO (CONT'D)

Five minutes bitch, or I'll have security throw your ass out.

Vivian jumps up and starts collecting her things, tears streaming down her face.

Tammy runs back in looking over her shoulder fearfully. She pulls out a gun from her purse and lays it on Vivian's desk.

TAMMY

Take this. You might need it.

VIVIAN

What are you talking about? Get that out of here.

TAMMY

Take it.

Tammy turns and darts back out of the office.

VIVIAN

Tammy, I...

Vivian stares at the gun then gingerly picks it up and puts it in her purse. She returns to packing.

EXT. STREET OUTSIDE VIVIAN'S OFFICE -- AFTERNOON

Vivian exits the building by herself. She carries a box of her personal effects and appears totally beaten.

As she walks out, a car on the curb honks. It is Howard.

HOWARD

Vivian, over here.

Howard jumps out of the car and comes around to Vivian's side.

VIVIAN

How did... What are you doing here?

HOWARD

It's okay, someone at your office called and told me.

VIVIAN

I just don't understand. Why could he be so mad at me?

Howard pulls Vivian into his arms.

HOWARD

It's okay. Everything is ok. I'll take care of you.

VIVIAN

But I don't understand.

HOWARD

Don't worry about it. I've got you now. Everything will be okay.

Howard opens the door for Vivian and she gets in. As Howard straightens up to go around the car, he smiles.

INT. HOWARD & VIVIAN'S LIVING ROOM -- NIGHT

VIVIAN

...what do you mean?

HOWARD

Well no company will hire you now. So you can't work.

VIVIAN

I'll get a job.

HOWARD

Where? You couldn't get that good of a job even before this. There really isn't any point.

VIVIAN

So I'm just supposed to sit around here all day? I don't think so.

HOWARD

Yes. You need to take care of the house. I'll have the job. It worked fine for my parents. And it will work fine for us.

VIVIAN

I'm not going to do that.

HOWARD

You're not? Then what are you going to do? You have no money and no one will hire you. You're my wife and you'll stay here and take care of the house.

Vivian looks up at Howard and is about to speak. But he stares her down, and she slumps back with her hands in her face.

The phone rings. Howard answers it.

HOWARD (CONT'D)

She's not available right now.

(pause)

No, and don't call back either.

VIVIAN

Who was that?

HOWARD

Tammy. You're not to talk to her anymore.

VIVIAN

What? I will too. She's a friend of mine.

HOWARD

No Vivian, I forbid it. Since you can't hold a job, we need some new rules around here.

VIVIAN

You can't do this.

HOWARD

Fine, there's the door. You want to leave?

They stare at each other for several seconds until Vivian's head sinks back in to her hands and she cries.

HOWARD (CONT'D)

This is all for you. You'll see. I'm taking care of you. I'm making sure you'll be all right.

INT. HOWARD & VIVIAN'S LIVING ROOM -- DAY

Vivian stares out the window. The phone rings startling her. She jumps and looks nervously at it. Finally she picks it up.

VIVIAN

Howard?

INTERCUT -- VIVIAN'S HOUSE & TAMMY'S OFFICE

TAMMY

Hi Viv, is he there?

VIVIAN

I can't talk to you. Goodbye.

TAMMY

Wait! I have to talk to you.

VIVIAN

Fast, I can't get caught.

TAMMY

Are you okay? He wouldn't even let me talk to you yesterday.

VIVIAN

I'm okay. Why was I fired?

TAMMY

The rumor mill says you called his wife and said you were having an affair with him. Were you?

VIVIAN

I wasn't having an affair with anyone.  God, why would anyone even think that. I can call his wife and tell her this is all a mistake.

TAMMY

I don't think that will help.  He was screwing half the secretaries at work. His wife threw him out, and I don't think she'll believe anyone now.

VIVIAN

But what should I do?

TAMMY

You didn't call her? So who did.

VIVIAN

I don't know. Someone who wanted to ruin my life.

TAMMY

What about Howard?

VIVIAN

Howard, no he would never... I don't think he... Oh god, no.

TAMMY

You have to get out of there Viv.

VIVIAN

Right. How? I have no money, no job.  I don't even have a car to drive down to the store.

TAMMY

But you...

VIVIAN

I have to let you go. I'm not supposed to be on the phone with you.

INT. HOWARD & VIVIAN'S LIVING ROOM -- LATE AFTERNOON

Vivian paces the room. Suddenly she turns, picks up the phone, and dials it.

INTERCUT -- VIVIAN'S HOUSE & TAMMY'S OFFICE

TAMMY

Tammy Koltzwitz

VIVIAN

It's me. I've decided to leave him.

TAMMY

Wonderful. You're going to San Francisco?

VIVIAN

San Francisco? I can barely afford to take a bus downtown. I was calling you to...

TAMMY

Didn't you talk to Michael?

VIVIAN

Michael?

TAMMY

Hang on. Let me transfer you.

We hear the phone dial and then ring.

INTERCUT -- VIVIAN'S HOUSE & MICHAEL'S OFFICE

MICHAEL

Da'Silva.

VIVIAN

Michael, it's me.

MICHAEL

Viv! You have a job offer. Carfunkel Inc. in San Francisco.

VIVIAN

What are you saying? I don't understand.

MICHAEL

I called a friend I used to work for. I told him what an incredible ad woman you are. He wants you to come work for them.

VIVIAN

Just like that? It doesn't happen just like that. And Alfredo...

MICHAEL

He doesn't like Alfredo. And he needs someone like you bad. Fifty-K to start.

VIVIAN

Just like that? Leave everything? I need to... Shit. Okay. I don't know how I'll get there, but I'll do it somehow.

MICHAEL

Can you get to the airport?  He has a ticket waiting for you there at the gate. He'll pick you up in San Francisco himself, and advance you a little.

VIVIAN

Michael, I don't know what to say. I owe you so much. I just... Thank you.

MICHAEL

Okay, you owe me a dinner.  Now get your ass out of there pronto. Can you get to the airport?

VIVIAN

Yep, I have enough for the bus.

EXT. SIDEWALK NEAR VIVIAN'S HOUSE -- NIGHT

Vivian walks down the sidewalk toward a bus stop. She carries two suitcases and her purse. There is no one else around.

Howard's car pulls up, and Howard jumps out in front of Vivian.

HOWARD

What the hell do you think you're doing?

VIVIAN

What does it look like? I'm leaving.

Vivian tries to walk around Howard. He grabs her arm to stop her. Vivian tries to shake him off.

VIVIAN (CONT'D)

Let go of me Howard. We're through.

HOWARD

You can't leave me. I won't allow it.

VIVIAN

You can't stop me. Let go. Now.

Howard starts to pull Vivian off the sidewalk toward some bushes. Vivian struggles trying to pull back and hold on to her suitcases. Finally, she drops the suitcases and tries harder to pull away.

VIVIAN (CONT'D)

Let go now, or I'll scream.

Howard grabs Vivian's throat.

HOWARD

You scream, you die. You're mine. How dare you leave me.

Vivian starts to struggle violently, dropping her purse. The purse falls and opens with the gun protruding slightly. Neither notices it.

Howard shakes Vivian. He throws her down on the ground.

HOWARD (CONT'D)

Stop it. You belong to me. We're going to go home, and you're going to stay there.

VIVIAN

No. It's over Howard. Now let me up before I scream for help. I mean it.

Howard drops down on top of Vivian.

HOWARD

Did I ever tell you how Susan died?  She was going to leave me. After everything I had done for her. So I pushed her off the cliff. You understand, don't you? She had to die.

VIVIAN

No. Oh please god, no.

HOWARD

And now look at what you've done to me.  I should be getting a promotion at work, and instead, you flaunt your tits and you get a promotion. I'm stuck kissing ass to provide the money we need, and you want to leave me.

Howard reaches for Vivian's throat with both hands and starts to choke her.

HOWARD (CONT'D)

The police will look and look, but they'll never be able to find your killer. And I'll be heartbroken at my loss.

Vivian pushes Howard up a little and knees him in the balls.

HOWARD (CONT'D)

Oh god, you're going to pay for that, you cunt.

Vivian starts to scramble up to get away. Howard lunges out and barely grabs her ankle. Vivian falls with her hand inches from the gun, but she doesn't notice it.

VIVIAN

Help! Help! Oh god, he's trying to kill me! Help me!

HOWARD

Shut the fuck up, you bitch. Shut up, or I'll kill you.

Vivian tries to get away from Howard, pulling at the grass but it comes up in her hands.

VIVIAN

Help me! Oh please god, help me.

Vivian suddenly sees the gun. She reaches for it but comes up inches short.

EXT. MARION'S FRONT PORCH -- CONTINUOUS

The front door opens on MARION'S (woman, 60s) door. Marion sticks her head out.

MARION

What's going on out there? Do you hear me? What's going on? I'm calling the police.

EXT. SIDEWALK NEAR VIVIAN'S HOUSE -- CONTINUOUS

Howard's head snaps up looking in the direction of Marion's voice. His grip loosens.

Vivian lunges and reaches the gun. Howard sees her and lunges for her arm as she brings the gun around.

HOWARD

I can't believe you.  I'm your husband and you're trying to shoot me. You are such a heartless bitch.

VIVIAN

Let me go Howard, or I swear I'll pull the trigger. Let me go.

Both now have their hands on the gun, each trying to point it at the other.

HOWARD

Guns are so dangerous to their owners.  Such a shame to be shot by your own gun. You should have told me you'd stay with me. Susan finally told me she'd stay.

VIVIAN

Fuck you.

The gun disappears between them. Howard points it at Vivian's chest.

HOWARD

Tell me you'll stay with me. Tell me you'll never leave me. Tell me now.

VIVIAN

I'd rather die.

They struggle ferociously for a couple of seconds, and then the gun goes off, and they both collapse. There is no movement, and we see blood drop from the side going down Vivian's blouse.

Howard starts to rise, lowers a little, and then rises some more. We see that it is Vivian's arms pushing Howard off of her. She pushes Howard to her side and sits up.

In the distance we see a police sedan, lights flashing, racing to Vivian's location. She sits and stares off into the distance.