Season One Finale..."It has Everything to do with Us"

We begin this episode at the home of Drexel and Valencia…


Knock, knock…

Valencia: Baby can you get that? I’m trying to sign up for our Target registry.

Drexel: Target? You’re going to have our baby wearing Target stuff? I don’t know about that.

Drexel opens the door and looks around. No one is there. He looks down and sees a large envelope with Valencia spelled out in large, red letters. He picks it up and walks out onto the porch to see if anyone is nearby. Satisfied that there is no one there he starts to open the envelope.

Valencia: Hey baby! Who was it?

Drexel: Uh, no one…just those bad ass kids playing “nigga knock”. I’m going to go check the mail, I’ll be right back.

Valencia: Okay!

Drexel reaches inside of the envelope and pulls out a letter on “Carlso, Cape and Crixus” letter head.

It reads:

Valencia,


Ever since you came to my office that day I have been trying to figure out how to deal with this situation. When you approached me for the money to have an abortion, I was dealing with Marlon and then Ashlyn showed up. I was angry and upset. I am truly sorry to have treated you so cold. I miss being able to unburden myself to you. You were always a good listener and I never felt like you were judging me. That night that we made love, I must admit, that I was fully aware of what I was doing. I wasn’t drunk. I know I have done some despicable things in my life. For some reason, you make me feel like I need to be a new man…a good man.


I know you have a man but, I promise you I will spend the rest of my life trying to win your love and trust. I have already established a trust for our child…no strings attached.


Please forgive me…I’m sorry and I love you.


- P.C.

Drexel is crying as he reads the letter. He is so surprised that Valencia has had an affair. He can’t understand why she would do this to him. He starts to slowly walk towards the house. The letter is clinched in his fist. He pushes the front door open….

Drexel (crying loudly): How could you do this to me? I gave you everything I had. I opened my life up to you and you stepped all over me! How could you do this?

Valencia is caught off guard by Drexel’s tears. She has never seen him cry. She notices a letter in his hand and see’s the Carlson, Cape and Crixus logo on it. She immediately realizes that he knows about Patrick and she is devastated.

Valencia: I’m sorry Drexel! I had only been with you and I thought that I needed to see what else was out there. I realized instantly that you’re the only one for me. Please don’t leave me! We need you!

Drexel’s upset turns into rage. He walks over to her and stands one inch away from her face.

Drexel: “We”? Who is “We” Valencia? I don’t know what you are doing and I don’t know who you are. If I were a lesser man, I would whoop your ass. Since I am a good, God fearing man…you have until the end of next month to figure out where you and that child you’re carrying is going to stay.

He picks up his keys from the coffee table and walks out of the house…

********************
We venture to Tasha and Wesley’s apartment. Gabrielle has just proposed that Silver Records plan Tasha and Wesley’s wedding. She has been put out of the apartment by Wesley but, not before she kisses him and leaves traces of her lipstick.

Tasha: Can you believe that bitch? Wesley is that lipstick on your lips?

Wesley immediately wipes his lips and walks toward the bathroom. Tasha follows him.

Tasha: Did you hear what I said? Is that lipstick?

Wesley: Look, Gabby kissed me. She has been after me for I don’t know how long. I don’t want her and you know that!

Tasha: I didn’t say that you did want her. You have got to check her before I get really ignorant and your record deal goes bye-bye.

Wesley: Can’t we just press rewind and start this day over? I just want to forget that she was even here. Weren’t you showing me some dresses?

Tasha: I can’t just get past it Wesley. I don’t know how we’re going to make it with Silver Records butting into our lives whenever they feel the urge. Now, promise me you’ll stop it now before it gets bad.

Wesley walks over to Tasha, wraps his arms around her waist and whispers into her ear…

Wesley: I promise…

********************
We find Ashlyn sipping a frozen green tea at Cup and Book…


Ashlyn is reading “The Bluest Eye” on her Kindle and people watching. She is enjoying a Sunday away from the Salon. She dressed in a flowing maxi dress, golden roman sandals and gold rimmed shades.

Marlon: Excuse me, is this seat taken?

Ashlyn looks up over the rim of her glasses and sighs.

Ashlyn: Are you stalking me? What are you doing here?

Marlon: What? You think you’re the only one that enjoys the coffee house scene? I can hardly breathe without my afternoon hot chocolate.

Ashlyn: Uh huh.

Marlon: Uh huh what?

Ashlyn: Anyway. So today is our one month anniversary. You had me meet you at the Cup and Book for what? So I can watch you drink hot chocolate in the summer time?

She smiles.

Marlon: Well, I know that we met under dishonest conditions but, obviously everything happens for a reason. So, I asked you here to the Cup and Book to give you…well a book.

Marlon slides a book across the table. Ashlyn picks up the book and sees that it is actually a journal. There is one entry written on the first page. She reads it and a single tear slides down the contours of her face. She touches the words and reads them out loud.

Ashlyn: Dishonesty lead me to you…honesty will keep me forever chained to your side.

Marlon: You like it?

Ashlyn: I love it! This is so sweet Marlon.

Marlon: And I love you.

********************
Sandra just told Gregory that she has herpes. She is sitting on a bench in the middle of the mall crying.  Peyton and Camille are so surprised but, they are silent...they don't know what to say...

Camille:  Sand...are you alright?  What did he say?

Peyton:  Forget what he said...let's talk about what you said!  Do you have herpes for real?

Sandra sniffles, looks up at Peyton and starts to cry again.

Peyton:  Well do you? 

Camille looks over at Peyton to let her know that she's being insensitive.  Peyton touches Sandra's shoulder and apologizes.

Sandra:  I have herpes but, I didn't have it last year before I started seeing Greg.  I got tested for the Black Student Union's "Know Your Status" drive and they called me three days ago and said that I had it.  Greg has been the ONLY one.  I can't believe he gave me a disease and now he's lying to me about everything!  I just want to die!

Aletha is standing behind them.  She's been listening for some time. Peyton looks up and sees her standing there.  Peyton walks over and starts whispering to Aletha.

Aletha:  What's going on?  I thought you would have come to meet me by now. 

Peyton:  Well it turns out that Sandra was seeing Gregory...for the past year.  She said that he had been telling her that he couldn't have her over because you were always there.  He gave her that excuse not 15 minutes ago and she's upset.  She also found out that she has herpes and she said that he was the only one that she'd been with so, he had to have been the one to give it to her.

Aletha:  Damn.  Yeah, he has it.

Peyton:  What do you mean? 

Aletha:  He's had it ever since I've known him.

Peyton:  I can't believe this...do you have it?

Aletha:  No, I get routinely tested and thank God, I'm in the clear.

Peyton:  I wish you would have told me.

Aletha:  Told you for what?  That has nothing to do with us.

Peyton:  Aletha, it has everything to do with us...

Copyright © 2010 Cravencrest. All Rights Reserved. Do not duplicate or redistribute in any form.

Why Are You Lying?

We resume this episode at High Point Mall…


Peyton: I understand how y’all could feel like that.

Camille: Wait a minute I recognize your girlfriend…isn’t that Professor Hill’s wife?

Sandra: My man?

Both Peyton and Camille turn around and look at Sandra with shocked looks on their faces.

Peyton and Camille: YOUR man?!?

Sandra: Yes, my man. I have been seeing him for a year now.

Camille: You never told me that Sandra. Why are you dating a Professor? You know how much drama you could have gotten caught up in?

Peyton: Yeah, I know we haven’t talked since May but, we talked every two weeks before then and you never mentioned Professor Hill.

Sandra: Well, for your information ladies, I didn’t tell you because I didn’t want to be judged. I knew the risks involved and frankly, it made our affair more passionate and enticing. He loves me though and he’s leaving that bitch that you call your girlfriend.

Camille: Wait a minute Sandy! You are way out of line! That was cold.

Peyton: Hold on Sandra. Obviously they’re not together anymore, Aletha and I just moved into a condo together.

Sandra: First of all, what do you mean y’all moved in together? He is always getting off the phone because she’s around. I can’t even go to his house because she’s always there!

Peyton: No she’s not Sandra. She and I are always together. Seems like Gregory Hill is pulling the wool over your eyes!

Sandra: Oh my God. I’ve been so stupid. I just assumed everything was fine because he told me…

Peyton: What? That they had an open relationship? They did. But, that also means that he isn’t going to commit to anyone else. He and I were on the Variety Show committee together. He propositioned me and I fell for his charm and the music room. Justice caught us making out. I was scared as hell. Then Aletha came home and shut it down! I can hardly believe that’s how she and I started.

Sandra: He had a birthday party? His birthday was six months ago and he never said anything to me about a party! What the hell is going on here? Uh, uh…I’m calling him.

Camille: Just let it go Sandy. You know he’s a mess so, just leave him alone.

Sandra: No! I need to set him straight.

Ring, ring, ring….

Gregory (In a sleepy tone): Hello

Sandra: Greg.

Gregory: Hey babe, I was just taking a nap.

Sandra: I’m sorry to wake you.

Gregory: It’s okay. Want me to come over? We can have a nice Friday evening together.

Sandra: That sounds good baby but, my place is a mess. Let me come over there.

Gregory: No, no, Aletha is here with some of her girlfriends. It wouldn’t be a good scene.

Sandra becomes enraged. She knows Gregory is lying and she is heartbroken that he would lie to her.

Sandra: No what wouldn’t be a good scene is me coming over there and going upside your head! I just saw your wife here at the mall Greg! Why are you lying? I told you I loved you! We have unprotected sex! I graded your papers and picked up your dry cleaning like a fool! Well guess what you bastard…I have herpes!

Copyright © 2010 Cravencrest. All Rights Reserved. Do not duplicate or redistribute in any form.

YOUR Man?!?

We begin this episode at High Point Mall. It is a Friday afternoon. The mall is seemingly filled to capacity with shoppers.



Sandra: Maybe we should have gone to another mall. It’s packed in here!

Camille: Yeah, but it would have taken us forever to go somewhere else plus, this mall has an ALDO. I want to get those pumps I’ve been looking at.

Sandra: I guess it’s okay. Let’s not go in any store where we see some bad ass kids!

A kid runs by Sandra and brushes against her leg.

Sandra: Hey, little boy! Watch where you’re going! Dang!

Camille: Girl, chill out. He’s just a kid.

Sandra: I know, but, he is out of control running in here. This is not a playground! See what I’m saying? Packed mall equals bad ass kids!

The ladies walk into H&M and start browsing.

Camille: Look at this dress! It’s absolutely beautiful and it’s only $14.99. This will go perfect with those earrings I bought from cre8tivesoul.com. You think it would look good on me?

Sandra: Why don’t you try it on and see?

Camille: ‘Cause I HATE trying on clothes! Just give me your opinion Sandra.

Sandra: Nope! You need to try it on and see for yourself. I’m tired of going with you to the store because you bought something that doesn’t fit and you need to take it back. Just eliminate all that and try the damn dress on!

Camille: You don’t have to be so testy…geez!

Sandra: Yes I do because you don’t listen! I’ve got some things to try on. Let’s go together c’mon.

The ladies are walking towards the dressing room when…

Camille: (In a whisper) Sandra! Sandra! Look is that Peyton hugged up with a chick?

Sandra: (In a loud voice) Peyton? Hugged up with a chick? Where?

Camille: Shhhh! Damn girl! You are so loud!

Sandra spots her and immediately starts walking over toward Peyton.

Sandra: Hey Peyton! How are you?

Peyton: Hi Sandra. How are you? How is life after school?

Sandra: It’s great. I can barely figure out what to do with myself with no classes! I’m going right back to Bontemps for my MBA. Anyway, enough about me.  Aren’t you going to introduce me?

Peyton: Oh! I’m so sorry! Aletha Hill, meet Sandra Temple we were room mates our freshman year at Bontemps.

The two women shake hands and smile.
Camille: Hi Peyton, how you doing?

Peyton and Camille hug.

Peyton: Camille! It’s so good to see you when did you get back?

Camille: I’ve been here for about a month now. Spain was beautiful. I missed home though.

Peyton: Aletha baby, this is my sorority sister, Camille. We were on line together our sophomore year. I was number 1 and she was the tail, number 3. 

Aletha: Peyton, I’m going to go into Dillards. Meet me there when you finish. Okay? Ladies excuse me, it was nice meeting you!

Sandra and Camille: Nice meeting you!

Aletha walks away towards Dillards. Her platform sandals are making a clicking noise on the tile floors of the mall. Camille and Sandra stare at her as she walks away.

Camille: She is really fly.  Those shoes are hot!

Sandra:  Yeah....sooooo....

Peyton: Let me clear the white elephant out of the room. Yes, I am dating a woman. I am very happy and I don’t care what anybody thinks. My parents are dead and I don’t have anyone but, God to answer to. If you want to be in my life I suggest you don’t judge me or, our friendships will cease to exist.

Camille: I didn’t know you were gay Peyton. I’m sorry if I’m coming off as abrasive I was just caught off guard.

Sandra: I think that goes double for me.

Peyton: I understand how y’all could feel like that.

Camille: Wait a minute I recognize your girlfriend…isn’t that Professor Hill’s wife?

Sandra: My man?

Both Peyton and Camille turn around and look at Sandra with shocked looks on their faces.

Peyton and Camille: YOUR man?!?

Copyright © 2010 Cravencrest. All Rights Reserved. Do not duplicate or redistribute in any form.

All You Care About is Yourself!

We begin this episode in the waiting room of Hale Memorial Hospital. Ashlyn is sitting in the waiting room playing Sudoku on her cell phone. She feels anxious and upset. She is trying to figure out what to say to Drexel when he arrives.


Nurse: Ashlyn Davis?

Ashlyn: Yes, that’s me. Is Valencia okay?

Nurse: You may come see her now.

Ashlyn realizes that the nurse did not answer her question and follows the nurse down the stark white corridor to Valencia’s room. Hospitals make her uneasy. She is mentally preparing herself for the worse case scenario.

The nurse gently knocks on the door before coming in. She walks over to the large windows and lets some light into Valencia’s room.


Valencia is looking pale but, she is awake. She is staring at the photo of a mother holding her child at the beach. A single tear is falling down her cheek.

Nurse: She is still weak. We want to keep her stress level down. She and the baby are fine. She just needs to keep ingesting fluids. She was dehydrated. I need you to continue to lay on your side so we can monitor the baby’s heart.

Valencia: (she sniffles) Okay.

Ashlyn: Thank you nurse. Val, are you alright?

Valencia: Ashlyn I’m so sorry. I didn’t know he was your husband at first and then he told me and…

Ashlyn: Calm down. No stress remember? You’ve got a baby to protect.

Valencia wipes her face and sits up in the bed.

Valencia: Didn’t you just tell me to get an abortion? Hell, you were right. Before you all came, I told him about the baby and he acted so cold. I’m so embarrassed and ashamed. I only slept with him because Drexel is the only man I had ever been with and I just wanted to feel like I had experienced life a little. I met Patrick in a bookstore and I started talking to him on the phone. He didn’t tell me about you or him being gay until AFTER we had sex. He said that he had a vasectomy so, we didn’t use protection. When he told me about his firm, I looked on the website and everything, I just thought surely this man is legit…I can trust him. Stupid huh?

Ashlyn: Yes, it was stupid. So was marrying a man I had known for only 24 hours. People like him prey on women like us. We displayed a vulnerability that he was able to pick up on. I was mad at Dennis…I mean Patrick. It’s like he has had some hand in all the relationships in my life lately and I just got fed up. I’m sorry I said that you should abort the baby. Do you know for sure that it’s his?

She moves the hair out of Valencia’s face.

Valencia: No, I mean, sometimes Drex and I use protection but, that’s only when I’m in between birth control prescriptions. I guess it could be his…oh God! No matter how much I want to be excited, I can’t escape the fact that this could be Patrick’s child that I’m carrying. I love Drexel with all my heart and I don’t want him to leave me. I don’t think I can live a lie. The only other way is to have an abortion.  That's why I asked Patrick for the money.

Ashlyn: No, the alternative is to have a paternity test and take it from there.

Valencia’s room phone begins to ring.

Valencia: Ugh, who could be calling here? I’m too tired to talk. Would you answer for me?

Ashlyn: Valencia Marsh’s room.

Drexel: I’m at the Nurse’s desk. Will you tell them I can come see you please?

Nurse: Ma’am, I’m sorry but, I have to observe the HIPPA laws, I can’t just send him in there without your consent.

Ashlyn: Uh, it’s fine.

Nurse: Thank you. (She hangs up the phone)

Drexel gets the room number from the nurse and speed walks down the halls to Valencia’s room. He opens the door and Valencia is surprised.

Valencia: Drexel!

Drexel: Baby, I came as fast as I could, are you okay? What happened? Is our baby okay?

Valencia: We’re fine. I was just dehydrated. That’s all.

Drexel: Ashlyn thank you so much for calling me. Oh, baby…I hate to see you like this.

He pulls up a chair to sit beside her bed. He hears the baby’s heart beat.

Drexel: Is that the baby? Man. His little heartbeat is so strong.

He smiles and kisses Valencia’s forehead.

Ashlyn: Well, I’ll let you lovebirds have your time. Val, don’t worry about the shop. I’ll take your clients. Get your rest and we’ll see you soon.

Just as Ashlyn is walking out of the room, Patrick is approaching. She quickly closes the door and stops Patrick from entering.

Ashlyn: First you don’t care and now you want to see her? No.

Patrick: Step aside Ashlyn! I deserve to see the mother of my child.

Ashlyn:  You can't just come to someone's room!  How did you know where her room was?

Patrick:  I said I was sorry.  I understand that you're angry.  I know where her room was because she texted it to me.  She said to tell them that she was my wife.

Ashlyn:  You are so full of shit Patrick.  I have had her phone the entire time.  You lied your way back here.
You are as crazy as the days are long! She is in there with her man who thinks that it’s HIS child.  A man who will proctect and nuture her and that baby! Leave them alone. You know you don’t want to be a father. Let them have their happiness.

Patrick: I was upset when I turned her away. I genuinely care about her!

Ashlyn: You care about her?  Really?  You're such a liar.  All you care about is yourself!

Copyright © 2010 Cravencrest. All Rights Reserved. Do not duplicate or redistribute in any form.

Call 9-1-1!

We resume this episode in Patrick Crixus office. Valencia is crying because she realizes that Ashlyn knows about she and Patrick. Adrienne is instigating and Ashlyn is enraged and yelling at Patrick.


Patrick: All you bitches get the fuck out!

Ashlyn: Bitches? Bitches? You’re the BITCH DENNIS a.k.a. Patrick! Who just walks out on their wife letting her hold the bag? I thought you said you loved me! You owe me an explanation and I don’t want to hear any damn bull from you either!

Patrick: I don’t have to answer any of your questions. I would just really appreciate you all leaving me alone.

Adrienne: I bet you would!

Ashlyn: Uh, Adrienne, could you excuse us please?

Adrienne walks out of the building and into the parking lot. Ashlyn watches her walk away and then begins to speak again.

Ashlyn: I would have appreciated you telling me that you weren’t interested in being with me anymore or that you were GAY or that you hated me and you were leaving. But, for you to just leave and for me to find out that all this time you were here…in Cravencrest! This is insane!

Patrick: Listen, I didn’t want to do this to you but, Marlon was trying to get close to you so he could get to your money. I told him about your parents and your trust fund and he said he would tell my partners in the firm I was gay unless I went along with it. I’m sorry. That’s all I’ve got to tell you.

Ashlyn: That’s all? That’s all? No, I need you to tell me why you deceived me from the beginning Patrick! Why didn’t you keep it real? I can’t understand that. I go by the last name Davis and that name is strictly made up! You’re not Dennis Davis, you’re Patrick Crixus…why?

Patrick: I needed to reinvent myself. I wanted to get out of my relationship with Marlon and I knew the only way was to marry someone. We met in Vegas and hit it off so I figured why not you? Is that what you wanted to hear? Damn.

Ashlyn: How dare you act annoyed with me? You’re evil. I’m glad that you’re out of my life. You had better thank God that I know him because if I didn’t, you’d be dead. Valencia, I suggest you abort that baby before Drexel finds out.

Ashlyn brushes by Valencia on her way out and says…

Ashlyn: I’ll see you bright and early tomorrow. Don’t start slacking.

Valencia is distraught. She walks out of his office and collapses. Mandy (Patrick’s receptionist) screams. Patrick gets up and walks into the hall to see Valencia passed out on the floor. Ashlyn rushes to Valencia’s side.

Ashlyn: Oh my God! Call 9-1-1! I should call Drexel.

Ashlyn grabs Valencia’s phone out of her purse. She looks up Drexel’s name and calls him.

Ring, ring, ring….

Drexel: Hey baby, I thought you were on your way. Where are you?

Ashlyn: Uh, Drexel this is Ashlyn, Valencia’s boss…there’s been an accident.

Copyright © 2010 Cravencrest. All Rights Reserved. Do not duplicate or redistribute in any form.

I Like You Too...

We begin this episode just outside of Gardenia Park. Peyton is standing with Lorna outside the park gates waiting on Aletha’s driver to show up….


Peyton: This is crazy…what am I doing?

Lorna: Will you chill? You’re making me nervous! Dang!

Peyton: I don’t know what to do on a date with a woman! Maybe I should say I have to go to class.

Lorna: Really Peyton? It’s the summer and school is out. C’mon…don’t be silly.

Peyton: Well, it could be Summer school.

Lorna: It could be but, you’re not in summer school. Just relax! I’m just a phone call away if you need to bail.

Peyton takes a deep breath. She knows that she’s excited but, she still feels nervous. She turns to Lorna…

Peyton: Okay, what if Gregory finds out.

Lorna: Who is that again?

Peyton: Aletha’s husband…the one I made out with! HEL-LO!!

Lorna: Well, I don’t know about all that. No body said that you’re going to have a girlfriend or anything. Just go and see what it’s about. Be adventurous for ONCE in your life.

Peyton rolls her eyes.

Peyton: You’re right. I do always play it safe…I just hope this doesn’t blow up in my face.

A Lincoln Town Car pulls up to in front of the ladies. The driver steps out of the car and opens the back door facing the girls. As Peyton is getting in, she looks back at Lorna who is motioning her to get in. Lorna holds her hand up to her ear and whispers “call me”….

Driver: Miss, please open the box next to you.

Peyton: I’m sorry, were you saying something.

Driver: Yes Miss, please open the box on the seat next to you.

Peyton looks down at the small brown box with a pink bow. She opens the card next to it and it reads: “The sweetest thing I’ve known” – A

She opens the box and it’s a large red velvet cupcake with Peyton spelled out in different color sugar. Peyton closes the box and thinks to her self…

Peyton: That is the most unique thing anyone has ever done for me.

The car stops in front of “Corlinda’s Confections”, a small boutique bakery. The driver opens Peyton’s door and escorts her inside the bakery.


Aletha is standing near the counter in a floral, ruffled blouse and a high waist cream pencil skirt with bone colored pumps. She smiles when she sees Peyton and walks over to give her a hug.


Peyton is caught off guard by the hug and tenses when Aletha puts her arms around her. Aletha whispers into her ear…

Aletha: Just relax, I don’t bite.

Peyton lets out a nervous giggle.

Aletha: Why don’t we sit down over here and chat?

Peyton: Okay.

Aletha: So, what made you call me? I was sure that Greg and I had scared you away.

Peyton: You did scare me. I guess I called because I wanted to step outside of myself in a way. I appreciated the lift. What do you do that you can afford a driver?

Aletha: I’m the Editor-In-Chief of “Crave Mag”. The “driver” is one of our freelance photographers. The car belongs to the magazine. We use it for clients and such. I wanted to make a good impression. Did it work?

Peyton: I guess.

Peyton looks down and smiles.

Corlinda comes out and places an assortment of petite fours, mini-cup cakes, cookies and brownies in front of them. She also places a bottle of Moscato and two glasses on the table. She pats Aletha on the back and walks away.

Aletha: Corlinda is one of my dearest friends, I asked her to prepare a little sweet spread for us. Dig in! You do eat sweets don’t you?

Peyton: Oh! That reminds me, um, thank you for the beautiful cup cake. I left it in the car. Oh my goodness.

Aletha: It’s okay, that was meant to impress you too. Mason, the “driver” will put it in my office.

Peyton: I feel bad, you’re all dressed up and I’m just wearing a sundress.

Aletha: Don’t worry, you look beautiful. I was at work remember? So, you’re a student at Bontemps?

Peyton: Yes, I graduate in August, well, I’ll be done in August but, I won’t walk until December.

Aletha: What’s your major?

Aletha takes a bite of a german chocolate mini-cupcake and says…

Aletha: Mmm…I’m sorry hold that thought. Taste this.

She holds the half eaten cupcake up to Peyton’s lips. Peyton hesitates to bite it. Aletha accidently bumps the cupcake into Peyton’s lips.


Peyton eats the smashed cupcake and reaches for a napkin. Aletha has frosting on her hand and says…

Aletha: Here, eat this too.

She puts her fingers on Peyton’s lips and Peyton eats the frosting. Aletha smiles. Peyton laughs and covers her mouth with her hands.

Aletha: Now, about your major?

Peyton: Well, I’m a double major in Biology and Zoology. I want to be a veterinarian.

Aletha: A Black veterinarian? Okay.

Peyton: I must admit, I feel awkward being here knowing that I just made out with your husband a couple of weeks ago.

Aletha: Trust me, he’s already moved on. I think the girl’s name is Karrisa.

Peyton: Karrisa? Wow.

Aletha: You know her?

Peyton: Yeah, she’s my homegirl…that’s crazy! Oh, well.

Aletha: Yeah, Greg and I have been over for a while. It’s time to move on.

Peyton: Well, I can’t say I would want to be in an open marriage so, I feel you. Just let it be and find your true love.

Aletha: If only it were that simple. Why are you single?

Peyton: I haven’t met the right one yet.

Aletha: You know, there is something about you. You’re special. I liked you from the first time I saw you.

Peyton: Please, you’re making me blush.

Aletha puts her hand on Peyton’s leg under the table.

Aletha: No seriously, I like you.

Peyton bites into a brownie.

Peyton: I like you too…..

Copyright © 2010 Cravencrest. All Rights Reserved. Do not duplicate or redistribute in any form.

You Owe Me an Explanation...

We begin this episode in the parking lot of Carlson, Cape and Crixus. Valencia is sitting in the parking lot crying in her car. She has the radio on the oldies station and every song that comes on reminds her of her boyfriend Drexel. She wipes her face and pulls down the visor mirror. She begins to re-apply her make-up when her phone rings…


Valencia: Hey baby, I was literally just thinking about you.

Drexel: You were?

She smiles as she is applying her mascara.

Valencia: Yeah, I was.

Drexel: Val, is there something you need to tell me?

Valencia: Uh, no. Why?

Drexel: You know the only thing that could hurt us is deceit. If there is something wrong, we can make it better together. I love you, you know that right?

Valencia: Yeah, baby, I know. What’s going on? Is there something you need to tell ME? You’re scaring me.

Drexel: Yeah, there is something wrong…you’re lying to me.

Valencia: I don’t know what you want me to tell you Drexel. Why are you picking a fight?

Drexel: You know I empty the trashcans Valencia. Tell me about this positive pregnancy test that was under mounds of paper towels in the bathroom trash.

Valencia: I, I…

Drexel: Tell me Val! What’s going on?

Valencia: I’m pregnant.

Drexel: Why are you keeping things from me? Why did I have to empty the trash to find out?

Valencia: I just wanted to tell you when I sorted out my feelings.

Drexel: So, we live together, we’ve built a life together but, you need to sort out your feelings? Listen, I don’t know if it’s the hormones or if you’re scared or what but, I need you to know that I will love and protect my child. I want us to be a family.

Valencia: You do?

Drexel: I do. I can’t wait to look into our baby’s eyes. I am so excited! Just please be open with me because I need to know we can be real with each other.

Valencia: Okay baby. I love you and I’ll see you soon. I’m sorry.

Drexel: It’s okay. Hurry up and come home so I can put my arms around the both of you!

Valencia is feeling somewhat relieved as she steps out of her car and walks toward Patrick’s office. She walks right past the receptionist and straight into Patrick’s office. Marlon and Patrick are arguing when she walks toward the door. The receptionist runs after her and tries to coax her back into the waiting area. She ignores the receptionist and stands in the doorway. The men don’t notice her and continue arguing. The receptionist stands there as well. She was unaware that Mr. Crixus is gay and is in awe.

Patrick: So, you’re backing out? I can’t believe you Marlon!

Marlon is looking down at his nails. He buffs them against his shirt. He looks dryly up at Patrick.

Marlon: Believe it. I’m done with this shady shit and I’m done with you too. Unlike you, I really care about Ashlyn and I’m telling her what’s been going on the past nine months.

Patrick: You’re delusional. You think she’s going to tolerate, let alone forgive a has been faggot who tried to siphon money from her? C’mon Marlon, you don’t want to do this. What about us? What about all the years we spent together?

Marlon: Patrick, Dennis or whoever you’re pretending to be…listen to me…it’s over. Out of the six years we were together, I had to lie to friends, hide from neighbors and sneak around like a teenager on punishment. I realize that I wasn’t in love with you, I was in love with the fact that someone wanted me. Anyway, why do you think I would never sleep with you? It wasn’t because I was scared, it was because I genuinely didn’t want to. I chose celibacy over sleeping with you. That should have been a red flag. So, let’s just let it go and go our separate ways.

Patrick: Okay Marlon, I’ll level with you. If you go through with this, I’ll give you a 70% cut. Gabrielle is going to double my portion when I invest in Silver Records anyway.

After watching them go back and forth Valencia becomes enraged that she slept with Patrick unprotected. She slams the door and screams, I’M PREGNANT YOU BASTARD! Both Marlon and Patrick turn towards her. Marlon’s mouth is wide open and Patrick is stunned.

Patrick: You’re what? Not by me.

Marlon: Well, look at this mess! You’re a screwed up man Patrick. I don’t care about that bitch Gabrielle and I don’t care about you. I should report both of your embezzling asses! One day, someone is going to kill you.

Marlon brushes past Valencia on his way out the door. He opens the door and slams it after him.

Valencia: I’m pregnant and I need money for an abortion.

Patrick: Okay.

Valencia: Don’t “okay” me Patrick. You know what we did that night.

Patrick: Just because I got drunk and told you some things doesn’t mean I’m a sucker too. I’m not giving you shit. Get the fuck out of my damn office.

Valencia: You know what? I have half a mind to have this baby and sue your behind for all you’re worth.

Patrick: You won’t get my pocket lint, you trick!

Valencia: Trick? Okay. Fine, I just hope…

Receptionist: Mr. Crixus, a Mrs. Davis here to see you.

He presses the intercom button.

Patrick: I don’t know a Mrs. Davis, take a message.

Receptionist: Uh, sir…

Patrick: I said take a message Mandy!

Adrienne and Ashlyn bursts through Patrick’s doors. Ashlyn walks up to his desk and knocks everything off of it. Valencia is totally surprised and starts crying. She turns around and says…

Ashlyn: Funny seeing you here Val.

Valencia: I’m so sorry, I, I didn’t know…I mean I knew but…oh God.

Adrienne: Yeah, you didn’t know that Ashlyn was my cousin huh?

Ashlyn: Shut up Adrienne, I believe her.

Patrick: All you bitches get the fuck out!

Ashlyn: Bitches? Bitches? You’re the BITCH DENNIS a.k.a. Patrick! Who just walks out on their wife letting her hold the bag? I thought you said you loved me! You owe me an explanation and I don’t want to hear any damn bull from you either!

Copyright © 2010 Cravencrest. All Rights Reserved. Do not duplicate or redistribute in any form.

I Think I'm Excited...

We begin this episode at Gardenia Park. It’s a warm spring day and the park is teeming with people. Lovers are picnicking on the lush grass, owners are playing Frisbee with their dogs, children are building castles in the sandbox and families are taking leisurely strolls through the winding park paths. Peyton is sitting on a park bench next to Lorna. They’re eating snow cones and catching up with one another.


Lorna: Girl, my life has been crazy the past few months. That’s why I haven’t called you. Life has been taking me to all these new places.

Peyton: It’s okay. Trust me, it’s been a similar situation with me.

She swats at a mosquito.

Peyton: I have been involved in the craziest stuff here lately.

Lorna: Not you Miss. Prim and Proper!

They both laugh.

Peyton: You wouldn’t believe this stuff if I told you! Trust me. Anyway, it’s such a beautiful day today. I can’t even remember what the cold felt like.

Lorna: Try me.

Peyton: Huh?

Lorna: Try me. You said that I wouldn’t believe you if you told me. So, tell me and see if I believe you.

Peyton: Now, why would you want to go and ruin a perfect afternoon?

Lorna gives Peyton a look and sucks her teeth.

Peyton: Okay, okay! Dang, you’re starting to make me feel bad. Well, long story short, I made out with a professor…

Lorna: Damn Peyt!

Peyton: Uh, don’t call me Peyt…you know I hate that!

Lorna: And….

Peyton sighs heavily and rolls her eyes.

Peyton: Well, we made out in his house during his birthday party. His wife comes home and starts to freak out. After I go to read him his rights about being married, his wife tells me they’re in an open marriage and hits on me! She gave me her card and told me she wanted to go for a drink sometime. I was too through!

Lorna: What the hell?

Peyton: I know! He was so suave and distinguished. He’s only 28. He even listens to the same music as I do. We made out in his “music room” of all places! I really saw myself developing something there. I was knocked off my feet when his wife came in the house and started tearing the club up!

Lorna: So, what are you going to do?

Peyton: What do you mean; what am I going to do? I’m not going to pursue anything with a married man. I have to protect my heart. I don’t care about their open marriage.

Lorna: No, not about him! I’m talking about the chick.

Peyton: Chile please! I’m not calling that heffa! I’m not trying to get caught up in any foolishness. Plus, hel-lo…I’m not gay!

Lorna: I’m not either but, the best date I ever went on was with a woman.

Peyton: Are you serious? When did all this happen?

Lorna: I told you it’s been a crazy couple of months.

Peyton: Lorna, you know that isn’t you.

Lorna: What isn’t me? Needing compassion and a soft caress from time to time? Needing someone who understands what I am feeling without having to speak? Wanting someone to make love to my mind as well as my body? Which part of that isn’t me?

Peyton: I don’t know uh, maybe the part that just said that YOU AREN’T GAY!

Lorna: Listen Peyton, I don’t know about you but, I’m tired of being tired. I want to be with someone who appreciates and respects me. Someone I can enjoy every aspect of life with.  Someone that doesn’t require complete submission on my part. I am ready to do what it takes to find that someone are you?  Who is to say that your someone is a man?

Peyton: Well, I never looked at it that way. These brothas are tired.

Lorna: Girl, these ruff and tumble negroes these days! Just call her. Call her right now.

Peyton: I threw her card in my purse…

She digs through her bag.

Peyton: I can’t believe I let you talk me into this!

Lorna: You’ll be thanking me shortly.

Peyton: Oh God! It’s ringing.

Receptionist:  Aletha Hill's office.

Peyton:  Mrs. Hill please.

Receptionist:  One moment please.
Aletha: Aletha Hill speaking.

Peyton: Uh, Aletha, yes, uh, this is Peyton.

Aletha: Ah yes, Peyton with the beautiful brown eyes.

Peyton: Uh huh…I was wondering if you’d still be interested in getting that drink?

Aletha: Of course! Where are you now?

Peyton: Oh, I’m in Gardenia Park. I can…

Aletha: I’ll have my driver pick you up in 30 minutes. See you soon.

Peyton: 30 minutes…okay.

Aletha: See you soon sweetness.

Peyton closes her phone and blankly stares off into space.

Lorna: What did she say?

Peyton: We’re meeting in 30 minutes. She’s sending her driver.

Lorna: Damn!  Her driver? 

Peyton:  Yeah...I think I’m excited.

Copyright © 2010 Cravencrest. All Rights Reserved. Do not duplicate or redistribute in any form.