Season 3 Sneak Peek

Newsome:  This playlist is off the chain!  Girl what you know about Betty Wright? 

Tabitha:  I know about "The Clean-up Woman".

Newsome laughs and shifts in his chair.

Tabitha:  Oh, I'm sorry did I make you uncomfortable?

Newsome:  Uncomfortable?  No!  Why, uh, would you say that?

Tabitha:  I don't know...you're over there squirming like there are worms in your britches.

Newsome:  Uh, when did Lavelle say that she'd be back?

Tabitha:  In about an hour.  She had an emergency client meeting and her cell phone was dying.  She lost her car charger so, she couldn't call you. Tell me Newsome, how are things in the hotel business?

Newsome:  Busy as hell.  You'd think people would travel less since the economy is so bad.  That's not the case.  People are spending money on leisure...big time.

Tabitha leans in to Newsome watching his lips move as he speaks.  She notices his smooth skin and deep brown eyes. 

Tabitha:  I want you.

Newsome:  Huh?

Tabitha:  I said I want you and I'm pretty sure you want me too.

Tabitha straddles Newsome and starts kissing his neck.  She rubs her hand in his crotch and gyrates in his lap.

Newsome, stands up knocking Tabitha to the ground.

Tabitha:  Bitch!  Are you out of your rabbid ass mind?  Lavelle is your best friend and my woman!  All that talk about The Clean-up Woman song and shit...you were scheming the whole time!  Wait until I tell Lavelle about your fiendish ass!

Tabitha drops down to her knees and yanks at Newsom's basketball shorts.  She begins performing oral sex and Newsome does not protest.

Lavelle walks in her home, drops her keys and purse in the kitchen and heads towards the den.  She's looking at the mail, leaving a trail of her shoes and sweater behind her.  She looks up and sees Tabitha and Newsome.

Lavelle:  Oh, I see you two got started without me!

Copyright © 2011 Cravencrest. All Rights Reserved. Do not duplicate or redistribute in any form.

Love?

Peyton: Let's call our friends and have the ceremony this weekend. Want to?


Aletha: Are you sure?

Peyton: 100%. Are you?

Aletha: ...

Peyton: Baby? Is there something you need to tell me?

Aletha: No, no. Everything is fine. It’s just that this weekend is so sudden.

Peyton: Let’s face it, we’re two women. It’s not like this is going to be legally binding. This is just a testament to the world that we’re going to be with each other for life. Now if you’ve changed your mind or you’re having second thoughts….you need to let me know.

Aletha: No, I’m not having second thoughts. Let’s do it.

Peyton: No, let’s not. I feel like you’re not being honest and I don’t want to force you to do something you don’t want to.

********************

Doctor: This is going to be a little cold and uncomfortable.

Marlon: I’ll say!

Ashlyn: Imagine how I feel!

Doctor: Okay, there are the little legs and there are the feet.

Marlon: Hey Doc, get to the good stuff…boy or girl.

Doctor: The heart looks good, I see all four chambers.

Ashlyn: Oh my god! This is amazing!

Doctor: See this outline here? Looks like it’s a girl! Congratulations.

Ashlyn: It is? Oh my GOD! A little girl…baby can you believe it?

Marlon: I think I need a second restaurant to support the Jamison girls!

Ashlyn: Uh huh!

Doctor: I’ll leave you to get dressed. Everything looks good. See you in a few weeks!

********************

Lavelle and Newsome are walking around downtown Cravncrest.

Lavelle: Listen to the guy, he can really blow! Let’s go listen.

She pulls Newsome’s arm.

Newsome: Okay, okay…just leave me my arm!

As soon as they approach the street singer, he starts to sing “Never Felt This Way” by Brian McKnight.

Lavelle: Ooh that’s my song!

She holds Newsome and lays her head on his chest.

Newsome throws a tip into the singer’s bucket.

Newsome: Damn! Baby can you pick my keys? I dropped them in the bucket.

Lavelle: You just want to watch me bend over!

Newsome: No, seriously, please baby.

Lavelle leans over and reaches into the bucket. In the bucket was a red velvet box. She opens it to reveal a set of pearl earrings.

Lavelle: Newsome! Oh my…I don’t know what to say! They’re beautiful.

Newsome: And so are you.

He leans in to kiss her and something strikes him in the back of his head. Kendrick is standing there holding a broken beer bottle. He then collapses.

Copyright © 2011 Cravencrest. All Rights Reserved. Do not duplicate or redistribute in any form.

He Loves Me

Tasha is sitting in the window seat at the Cup and Book.  She is reading her Kindle and people watching.  Wesley walks by and spots Tasha sitting in the window.  He walks in and heads straight for her.

Wesley:  Hey girl.

Tasha looks up from her reading and and looks at Wesley.  She immediately jumps up and throws her arms around his neck.  They share a long and deep embrace.

Wesley:  I've missed you.

Tasha:  I've missed you too but...

Wesley:  If you just hear me out, I can explain everything.

Tasha:  Wesley it's okay.  I'm at peace with it now.  You've always had a thing for Gabrielle.  She's pretty, smart, powerful and rich.  I can't compete.

Wesley yells.

Wesley:  TASHA! 

Everyone in the Cup and Book looks at them.  Tasha is embarrassed and shrinks down into a chair.

Wesley:  What I'm trying to tell you is that Gabrielle told me that the label would drop me if I didn't agree to see her.  If they dropped me I thought that I would have had to pay back the 50k bonus they gave me.  I felt trapped.

Tasha:  Is that supposed to make me feel better Wesley?  Because it doesn't.  It actually makes me feel worse.  You sacrificed our love and our future together for a record deal.

Wesley: I called my lawyer.  He reviewed my contract and told me that it was iron clad.  He said that not only could I walk away but, I could walk away with all of my masters and the 50k bonus.  After that, I confronted Gabrielle and ended whatever she thought had begun.

Tasha:  Are you still with Silver Records?

Wesley: Yes and no.  I'm doing an LP with them and then, I'm out. I'm going to try my hand at doing this independently.  I just started teaching an R&B appreciation course at Bontemps and I'm in talks of helping to develop more music appreciation courses.

Tasha:  Well...good for you.

Wesley:  No baby, good for us.  You are my queen.  You always have been and you always will be.  I need you by my side to help me grow.  I want to be there to help you grow.  I want to see what you look like with gray hair!

Tasha:  Beautiful.  That's how I'll look beautiful.

Wesley:  Of course.  So, what do you say, Tasha McAllister, will you do me the honor of becoming Mrs. Tasha Eastfall?

Tasha:  Yes!

Wesley stoops down and kisses her passionately.  Everyone in the Cup and Book cheers!

I've got to call my momma and my sisters!

Wesley:  Go ahead.  I'm not going anywhere.

Tasha calls Rose.

Rose:  Hey baby.

Tasha:  Hey mama.  Guess what?

Rose:  Wesley proposed to you and y'all gettin' back together?

Tasha:  What?  How did you know that?

Rose:  Who you think told him where you was child?  Mercy, mercy!  God is good!

Tasha:  Yes he is.  Well okay mama, I'm going to call Arronette, Corrine and Lavinia.

Rose:  Naw now.  Don't call Vinia.  She done messed around and fell in love with dat dope boy round there and he done whopped her behind!  Let her sulk by herself.  When she get tired of being dogged out.  She'll come on round.  Now enjoy your day and let mama finish cutting up these greens.

Tasha:  Alright mama...love you.

Rose:  Love you too sugar. 

Copyright © 2011 Cravencrest. All Rights Reserved. Do not duplicate or redistribute in any form.

The Money is Already There

Peyton and Aletha are laying in bed talking.  The moon is full and the moonlight is pouring into their dimly lit bedroom. Peyton is laying her head on Aletha's shoulder. 

Peyton:  I'm proud of our President.  I feel like he was strong and confident during the State of Union Address.  I know he assured a lot my fears.

Aletha:  Yes, I must say that was an expertly crafted speech.  But, did you see Michelle honey?  She had on a beautiful Rachel Roy dress.  And she was killin' it!

Peyton:  She was, she was.  So, I talked to my boss at the Zoo today.  Guess what? 

Aletha:  I know they did not fire you!  You were in a coma for God's sake!  What kind of bull...

Peyton:  Hold on 'Letha!  Dang!  I was going to say, that he offered me a full time position with benefits.  He said that since I've been gone, my absence has been difficult and they realized that I am a valuable team member.

Aletha:  Really?  How valuable?

Peyton:  35k until I sit for my last exam and then you know it's Dr. Peyton!

Aletha:  Is it going to be enough room in here for your head?

She laughs.  Then as if they were magnets with opposite polarities they rushed toward each other and began to kiss.  They gently caressed each others hair and faces.  Peyton quickly pulls back.

Peyton:  Let's call our friends and have the ceremony this weekend.  Want to?

Alehta:  Are you sure?

Peyton:  100%.  Are you?

Aletha: ...

********************
Gabrielle is at her mother's house having dinner.  She is sitting across from her at the large banquet sized dining table.  They are eating in silence.

Gabrielle:  Mother.

Marla ignores her daughter.  She takes a gulp of her red wine and gently places the glass on the table.  She wipes the corners of her mouth with an elaborately embroidered cloth napkin and returns it to her lap.  She takes a deep breath and responds.

Marla:  Yes Gabrielle.

Gabrielle:  I have something to tell you and I, I don't know quite how to say it.

Marla:  There is no "other" way to say anything.  I've told you that your entire life.  If you are an adult, you grit your teeth and you say what you need to say.

Gabrielle:  I lost the money and now daddy won't give back to me and I don't know why and I'm sorry and...

Marla interrupts Gabrielle.

Marla:  You lost WHAT money?  The money that I entrusted you with to develop YOUR artist?  Is THAT the money to which you are referring?

Gabrielle looks down.

Marla slams her hand on the table and stands up.  The china rattles as pounds the table again.  She slowly walks to where Gabrielle is sitting.  Each step quakes the floor.  She gets with in inches of Gabrielle's face.

Marla:  Now, you listen to me!  You are a pathetic excuse for a woman.  You have no business sense, no prowess, no class, no dignity and no common sense!  I left your father for a reason.  He was a money grubbing, manipulative, hoodlum dressed in an expensive suit that the woman before me bought!  I don't care if you have to strip, wait tables, sell your self or take in laundry but, god damn it you had better get my damned money!  Now get the hell out of my face!

Gabrielle:  Why are you talking to me like this?  I know I made a mistake but, I am still your child and worthy of your respect.  I can't believe you think that you can just treat people like crap and no one will ever stand up to you.  Well...

Marla slaps Gabrielle and yells...

Marla:  I don't care what you think I said get the hell out of my face and that's exactly what I mean.  Now, unless you want to fight me, I suggest you take your behind home!  GET OOOUUUTTT!

Gabrielle kicks over her chair and storms out of the house.  Marla listens for her daughter to slam the door.  She picks up her phone and dials.

Marla:  Hello fool.  Thank you for giving me the money.  I appreciate you doing one thing for your daughter after all these years.

Patrick:  Ah my dear Marla.  If only she were my daughter!  You know I wouldn't be in the mess I'm in now.  So, when should I be receiving my transfer?

Marla:  Hey, I'm an opportunist.  You wanted to marry someone with money and I needed a presentable father for my child.  It worked out.  The money is already there.  Goodbye.

Copyright © 2011 Cravencrest. All Rights Reserved. Do not duplicate or redistribute in any form.

I'm not signing!

Kendrick:  You mean to tell me that you're moving in with some nigga and I'm just supposed to accept this shit?  First you tell me you're unhappy.  Okay, maybe I haven't been the best husband I could be to you.  But, you're leaving me to be with some other mutha fucka? 

Lavelle:  First of all, you will respect me and not talk to me like I'm some heffa off the streets.  I am trying to be truthful and forthright with you Kendrick.  You walk around here like I'm the help.  Only addressing me when you want something out of me or when you want to put something inside of me.  I am more than that.  Now, I have found someone that loves me for me and actually SEES me!  How can you be mad at that?

Kendrick:  You're my wife!  That's why I can be mad.  You didn't say let's go to counseling or let's talk this out.  You just jumped into the arms of the first dude that showed you some attention.  That's real desperate.  And what's with this new house shit?  I hope you don't think that I'm letting you get away with a new fucking house and saddle me with the mortgage here!

Lavelle:  First of all, let's get some things straight, what I do with my money, is my business.  You don't know who that house was purchased by!  Second of all, I'm not living with him.  After your ass, I need a break from having a man living in my midst.  Third of all, you don't have to worry about letting me do anything because you don't own or control me.  And if you even so much as think about taking any of this out on our children, you have better sleep with one eye open because I don't play that!

Kendrick:  Why don't you just move out now? 

Lavelle:  No, I'm not doing that.  When the kids start their first semesters at Braiding Branch and Willow Woods, I'll go.  You need to get off your self-righteous high horse long enough for us to devise a way to tell them we're divorcing.

Kendrick:  Oh, no.  We're not divorcing.  I'm not signing a damn thing!  I'm the last husband you'll ever have.  So, go ahead and chill wit cha little boyfriend.  But, then, bring that ass back home!

Kendrick walks into his study and slams the door.

********************

Valencia:  Girl, I cannot believe that you and Marlon are going to have a baby!

Ashlyn:  I know.  I'm still in shock myself.

Valencia:  Is he excited?

Ashlyn:  Too excited!  He calls me every other hour to check on us.  At first it was cute.  Now, it's just getting on my last nerve!  Good God Almighty!

Valencia:  Well that's good.  You're going to need him to be as supportive as he can be.  Having a baby is no joke!

Ashlyn:  So, how are you and Drexel getting along after your reconciliation?

Valencia:  It's been great.  He and Isis look just alike!  He helps with her and we love each other very deeply.  Can you believe that when I supposedly married "Patrick" that he had his friend draft fake marriage documents and now, they have his criminal ass in jail!

Ashlyn:  Shut up girl!  Jail?

Valencia:  And I'm so glad!  I sure do miss the shop.

Ashlyn:  Hell, we miss you too.  Maxanne and everyone are all well.  It would be great if you could come back.

Valencia:  I'll talk it over with Drexel and get back to you.  I hope he goes for the daycare option.  Mama needs some grown-folks stimulation during the day!  Hel-lo!

Ashlyn:  So, do you think that I should tell Marlon about Patrick?

Valencia:  Well, um let me see, should someone tell Randy Jackson that no one wants to wear his eye glasses?  Hell yeah!

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

Mini Episode: Love, Exciting and New

Avalon and Jessie are shopping at the mall.

Jessie:  I can't believe how good these sales are!  I wish I had gotten in on these after Christmas sales years ago!

Avalon:  Yeah, there are some good deals out here.

Jessie:  What's up girl?  You've been acting all quiet today.

Avalon:  Nothing.  Just thinking.

Jessie:  Oh, man...here we go.

Avalon:  Here we go?  What are you talking about?

Jessie:  Ever since I told you about my STD...you've been acting strange.

Avalon:  What should I be acting like Jessie?  When that medicine bottle fell out of your pocket, you tried to front and cover it up!  If I would have let it go, you would have lied and kept up the charade.  I told you I love you and that's why I'm still here.  But, I'm concerned.

Jessie:  And I told you I loved you and that's why I kept it real with you.  If you forgive me then, let it go.  If you don't trust me and you ain't feelin' this no more then, let's just go our separate ways.  I don't want to feel bad every time I see you.  I'm healthy now.  You've seen the paperwork.  It's up to you.

Avalon:  You know what wasn't up to me?  Whether or not I fell in love with someone who knowingly had an STD and lied about it!

Jessie starts walking away.

********************
Lavelle and Newsome have been sending texts all day.

Lavelle texts:  When are you coming back into town?

Newsome texts:  The meetings are over tonight.  I'll be on a plane and back in Cravencrest tomorrow morning.

Lavelle texts:  Good.  I miss you.

Newsome texts:  You miss me or you miss all these clients I've been throwing your way.

Lavelle texts:  Well, the clients haven't gone anywhere...you have.

Kendrick and the twins walk into the kitchen.  The kids throw their backpacks on the floor and walk to the refrigerator.  Kendrick walks past Lavelle and into his study.

Newsome texts:  Did you tell him yet?

Lavelle texts:  No.  I'm telling them all tonight.

Newsome texts:  Did you pick-up the keys?

Lavelle texts:  Yes and I'm so excited!  My very own house!  I can't wait to have you over to help me warm-up the place!

Newsome texts:  The kids excited about going to their new schools?

Lavelle texts:  Yeah, they are.  I think it's going to be a good experience for them.  I'm just scared having my babies so far away from me.

Newsome texts:  They'll be fine.  Well, I've got to ttyl.  Miss you madly...see you soon.

Something I Said

Wesley is sitting in the lobby at Silver Records.  He is there to discuss the art on the cover of his album.  He walks down the hall toward the restrooms and passes Gabrielle in one of the conference rooms.  She is pacing back and forth with a worried expression on her face.  She is shouting at the phone on the conference room table.

Wesley thinks:  Good!  Someone else is stressing her out for a change.

Wesley walks out of the restroom and accidentally hits Gabrielle with the door.  She is visibly shaken and her face is running with mascara stains.

Wesley:  Wow...you look like shit Gabrielle. 

Gabrielle:  On my worst day, I look better than any other woman you know.  I don't need any shit from you!  Just leave me alone.

Wesley:  Leave you alone?  Ha!  That's funny.  You see, I seem to recall that every time I asked you to leave me alone, you persisted; and with a vengeance at that.  I really don't care what's going on with you.  You have destroyed so many others.  I hope you get back everything that you've been putting out there and more.  Have a nice day...bitch.

********************
Patrick:  Gabrielle, I can't give you that money back.

Gabrielle:  Surely you're kidding me.  You've got to be kidding me!  You're going to ruin my relationship with my mother and my career.  You have to get that money!

Patrick:  Listen, you knew we'd be taking some risks when we were moving all that money around and now...it's gone. 

Gabrielle:  Well, borrow it against your firm.

Patrick:  I wouldn't dream of doing that.  Plus, I've got my own concerns.

Gabrielle:  Like what?  First you're gay because you thought that Marlon had money.  Then, you were straight because I told you about Ashlyn.  Then, you married Valencia because she was pregnant and the baby was the key Granna's inheritance money.  You caused all this mess dad!  Now, you're screwing me over!

Patrick:  First of all, I did do all that.  But, I have the common sense to know that there is no honor among thieves.  Just because I'm your dad doesn't mean that you should have trusted me with all that money Gabrielle.  I'm not giving it back to you because I need it.  There is nothing you can do about it unless you tell the truth and I don't think you want to do that.  So, suck it up and tell your mama...or figure it out yourself.

Gabrielle:  Oh my God!  I'm your daughter for God's sake!

Patrick:  Yes, you are my daughter and I love you.  But, I don't owe you anything. 

Gabrielle:  I hate you!

Gabrielle throws the phone into the wall and runs to the bathroom.

********************
 Ashlyn is in Coiffed styling a client's hair.  She has just finished and the client is admiring herself in the mirror.

Client:  Girl, I look just like Gabrielle Union with this do!

Ashlyn:  You sure do girl!  Just make sure you keep coming back to me or you'll end up looking like Whoopi! Okaaay!

They high five.

Client:  So, when are you due?

Ashlyn:  Huh?

Client:  You heard me.  When are you due?  Your face is just glowing and that little tummy is a big tummy now!

Maxanne:  What?  Ash you preggers?

Ashlyn:  Keep your voice down Maxanne!  What is wrong with you yelling all up in here?

Maxanne:  We knew something was up with you!  Congratulations!

Ashlyn breaks down crying and walks to her office.

Maxanne:  Well damn!  Was it something I said?

Sugar

It's getting late and the crowd at KAMA is thinning out.  Tabitha and her new "friend" are still chatting at their table.  Lavelle and Newsome are still talking and...

Newsome:  Ha, ha, ha!  Girl you are hilarious!  You've got me on the jokes.  I don't want to cross you, you know how to rag on a fool!

Lavelle:  Hey, I wasn't brought up in a easy part of Cravencrest!  We used to have raggin' contest!  Full of yo' mama jokes and all that!  Either you were jokin' or fightin'!

Newsome:  An around the way girl huh?

Lavelle:  Something like that.  Well, it's been nice hanging with you Newsome.  I think I need to signal my girl and head out.

Newsome:  Curfew already?

Lavelle:  No Mr. Smartass!  We are actually having a girl's weekend.  So, we're headed back to our suite at the "W".

Newsome gets up from his seat and walks behind Lavelle.  He picks up her jacket from the back of her chair.  He holds it out for her to put on.  Lavelle sits there for a moment feeling flattered and surprised.

Lavelle:  Thank you Newsome.  Good luck with everything.

Newsome:  No, thank you Lavelle.  You're a class act.

********************

Tasha is sitting in the waiting room at her mother's doctor's office waiting for her mom to come out of her appointment.  She is checking her FB page on her cell phone and reading all of her wall posts.

Tasha thinks:  I really wish Wesley would stop sending me these messages!  He made his choice!

Rose:  I swear if that phone is more attached to your hand than your fingers are!  Have mercy lord!

Tasha:  Hey mama.  How did it go?

Rose:  Well, I've got diabetes and my pressure is low.

Tasha:  See mama!  That's why I told you that going to those old country doctors wasn't a good idea!  It took us coming up here for them to properly diagnose you.

Rose:  Hush child.  I been known I had sugar.  I didn't know about my pressure though.  And anyway, Dr. Brooks is a good doctor.  They did the MRIs and everything.

Tasha:  First of all mama, they probably did those MRIs to get the extra insurance money. Second of all, what do you mean you knew you had sugar?  Why didn't you tell Arronette, Lavinia me or Corrine?

Rose:  'Cause y'all worry too much and Jesus said by his stripes I am healed!  I'm not trying to sit around and have y'all watching what I eat and what I do!  Now, the doctor done gave me these prescriptions and told me to come back in a week.  So, calm down and let's go get some food.

Tasha:  Oh, mama!  You're a trip!  But, I love you.

Rose:  Love you too baby.  Now, c'mon.

********************

Lavelle and Tabitha are sitting in their hotel suite eating fruit and drinking wine.

Tabitha:  His name is Hunter.

Lavelle:  Hunter?  Girl, he looked light skinned but, is he White?

Tabitha:  Yes he was!  Girl I'm gonna be getting my swirl on!  Haaaaaay!

They high five.

Lavelle:  Well you definitely looked like you enjoyed yourself.

Tabitha:  So did you!

Lavelle:  You know what?  I can't lie, I did!  His name is Newsome and he is eloquent and centered and divorced.

Lavelle's phone rings.

Kendrick:  Hey when you comin' home?

Lavelle:  Monday.

Kendrick:  Monday!  My mama just dropped off the twins and I thought you were coming home.  What are we going to eat Velle?

Lavelle:  Go out or order take out.  I need a break Kendrick.  I told you I was leaving for the weekend, you didn't listen.  They're your children too...do what you can and I'll see you Monday.

Kendrick:  Whatever, just be back Monday morning because I've got a board meeting at 10:30am and I need to prepare.

Lavelle:  I'll be there when I get there.

Lavelle hangs up the phone and there is a knock at the door.  Tabitha answers the door and there is a book of jokes with a note on top of it sitting on a platter.

Tabitha reads the note out loud:  "Guess I should have told you that I manage this hotel.  Anyway, have a joke or two on me.  Goodnight, Newsome"

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

There is Nothing Cookie Cutter About You...

Valencia: Go ahead and do it! I know all about how you were trying to extort money from Marlon and Ashlyn and how you and Gabrielle Silver have some sort of backdoor dealings with that record label. I will put your ass on display for the entire world to see!


Patrick is shocked that mild mannered Valencia has asserted herself in this way. He takes a deep breath and walks up within inches of her face.

Patrick: I do have feelings for you, you know.

Valencia: Patrick, you don’t feel. You hurt, you take, you use and repeat. I should have NEVER allowed you to use me as a pawn. So, go ahead and do what you have to do…and I’ll do the same.

Patrick: There was a spark between us at one time and I thought that you loved me.  You hurt, took, used and betrayed me! 

Valencia:  Patrick, the only reason I'm here is because Drexel received that letter from you.  You sent that letter because you wanted the inheritance from your grandmother.  You knew that I was pregnant and that we had been intimate.  You preyed on me and I foolishly allowed it! 

Valencia grabs her purse and walks away.  Patrick suddenly realizes that he has been more open with Valencia than anyone in his life.  He thinks that for the first time that he can be hurt by someone.

Patrick screams...

Patrick:  If you tell any of my business I swear I'll kill you!

********************
The door opens and Justice walks in.

Justice: Oh my God bae…my momma told me you were…

Aletha:  Are you serious?  What are you doing here?

Justice gives Aletha an ice cold stare and turns toward Peyton.

Justice:  I'm here to check on Peyton and show her that I care.  Peyton, I just got back from Tunisia and my mom told me about your accident.  I rushed right over as soon as I heard...I'm so sorry.

Peyton:  Thank you Justice...that's very sweet.  I feel like the accident was just yesterday.  I don't feel like I've been in a coma for two weeks.  I'm doing good though.  How was Africa?

Aletha grows impatient and interrupts their conversation.

Aletha:  Peyton baby, I'm going to get something from Starbucks and return a few e-mails.  When I come back, i trust that you'll be gone Armistice.

Justice: That's Justice, Arnetha.

Petyon:  C'mon y'all!  I'm too tired for this mess!  I'll see you later baby, I was just getting ready to tell Justice that my last name is changing.

Feeling validated, Aletha smiles at Peyton and walks out of the room.

********************
Lavelle and Tabitha are at KAMA for Sushi and Sake Saturdays.

Tabitha:  Girl!  I can't believe I got you out the house!  Lawd Jesus in the mornin'!

Lavelle:  You are a hot mess!  I'm glad I came.  I needed this.

Tabitha:  I see what I need standing over at the bar!  Damn!  Where did he get all that fine from?

Lavelle:  "He get it from his momma!"

Tabitha:  See uh, uh, what you're not going to do is be gettin' drunk and quoting rap songs!

Lavelle:  Drunk?  Me?  No.  I just know how to have a great time!  I'll prove it.

Lavelle gets up from the table and walks toward the bar.  Tabitha is whispering "come back"!

Lavell:  Excuse me sir, my companion and I couldn't help but, to notice how handsome you are.  How are you this evening?

Newsome:  I'm well and you?

Lavelle:  I'm fine.  I just had to come over and introduce myself.  I'm Lavelle.

Newsome:  I'm Newsome.  Have a seat, let me buy you a drink.

Lavelle:  Well, I left my girl over there...

Newsome:  Looks like she's got company.

Lavelle looks back at Tabitha.  She is sitting talking to a guy.

Lavelle:  Well, looks like you're right.  I'll have a pineapple and vodka thanks.

Newsome:  So, let me guess, stressed out wife and mom comes out with her girl for some fun on the town...right?

Lavelle:  Damn!  You're good!

She looks down and smiles swirling the ice in her drink.

Newsome:  You're  wearing your wedding ring.

Lavelle:  So I am.  Yes, I am a mother of twins, I operate a home based business and I'm a wife.  So, yeah, I needed a little air tonight.  What about you?

Newsome:  I'm here celebrating my divorce.

He lets out a long sigh.

Newsome:  Sixteen long years...done.

Lavelle:  Oh, I'm sorry to hear that.

Newsome:  Don't be.  She neglected me and our marriage fell apart.  We tried to repair it but, it was too far gone.  We're both happier now, I guess.

Lavelle:  You guess? 

Newsome:  No, actually I'm sure.  She's a good woman and mother.  She's just not the one for me.  I need a woman that will allow me to take care of her and be willing to reciprocate.  Here I am getting all heavy.  Let's lighten the mood.  Let's talk about you.  Tell me everything.

Lavelle:  Well, I own an event planning business called Save the Wait and I'm a stay a home mom that juggles everything that comes along with that.  My husband and I have been married for 12 years and we have both lived here all our lives.  Guess I'm a cookie cutter, all American girl.

Newsome:  If you don't mind me saying, there is nothing cookie cutter about you.

Lavelle blushes.

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

Trying Times...

Tabitha gives Lavelle a call...

Lavelle: Hey girl what’s going on?

Tabitha: Nothing, on my way to the grocery store. Just thought I’d call to see what you were up to.

Lavelle: I’m sitting here watching Love Jones and folding these clothes.

Tabitha: You want to meet me at KAMA for sushi and sake later?

Lavelle: As much as I’d love to, Kendrick is out with his boys and I’m here with Camden and Cadence. By the time he gets back home, I won’t have the energy to do anything.

Tabitha: How are my god-babies? When are y’all coming to see me? They’re never going to know what their G-Mommy’s house looks like!

Lavelle: They’re fine! Camden had soccer practice this morning and Cadence had her piano lesson. They’re both in their rooms doing whatever it is that 10 year olds do.

Tabitha: So, Velle?

Lavelle: What?

Tabitha: When are you going to start living YOUR life? I hear you taking the twins here, coordinating parties there, taking care of Kendrick’s dry cleaning and redecorating for the holidays…but, I don’t hear anything about you do something for Lavelle!

Lavelle: You’re right and trust me it’s been heavy on my mind lately. I’m just in a rut and I don’t know how to get out.

Tabitha: You can start by calling the twins’ grandmamma and coming out with me tonight.

Lavelle: You know what? You’re right. Let me get things together and I’ll call you back.

Tabitha: Don’t stand me up!

Lavelle: I won’t…let me call you back.

********************
Marlon and Ashlyn are in the car...

Marlon: I’ll fix it but…

Ashlyn: But, what Marlon?

Marlon: I don’t want this to be a shadow on our marriage. I don’t want to talk about it all the time or ever for that matter. Can you just trust that I will do the right thing and rectify this situation?

Ashlyn: I trust you and I know that you love me and you won’t do anything to hurt me. Please handle this Marlon. It’s really too much on me.

Ashlyn turns her head towards the window. She begins to sniffle as tears stream down her face.

Marlon: Are you crying? What’s wrong baby? I said I would take care of it. You’ve got to believe that I want to rid us of any drama or confusion. We have a peaceful relationship and I plan to keep it that way. Ash baby, Ash!

Ashlyn: I’m pregnant Marlon!

********************

Avalon just found Jessie's antibiotics...
Jessie: I’m okay, uh, I just had an infection from when I cut my finger at the bakery.

Avalon: Doxycycline? I’ve never heard of this.

Jessie: Oh, you’ve heard of every antibiotic there is?

Avalon: Uh, no smartass! But, there are certain antibiotics that are common like penicillin and amoxicillin. Wait “Do not have sexual intercourse until all doses have been taken.” Jessie what the hell is this about? Do you have a STD?

Jessie: Naw girl! Come on now.

Avalon: Don’t try to play me for a fool! I know there would not be a warning on a bottle like this unless some sexually transmitted disease was involved. Tell me the truth now!

********************

Valencia: Patrick I hope that you understand that I made a mistake. I appreciate you being so kind to Isis and me but, she’s not your child.

Patrick: If you try to leave, I will call child protective services and tell them that you are unfit.

Valencia: Why would you do that? Why are you trying to hurt me?

Patrick: You know I need to have a child in order to secure the money from my grandmother! Why are YOU trying to hurt me?

Valencia:  Go ahead and do it!  I know all about how you were trying to extort money from Marlon and Ashlyn and how you and Gabrielle Silver have some sort of backdoor dealings with that record label.  I will put your ass on display for the entire world to see!

Get it Together!

Marlon and Ashlyn are putting their bags in the car. They’ve just returned from their honeymoon and they are exhausted.


Ashlyn: I don’t think I have ever been this tired in my life.

Marlon: Not even in school? I know those all nighters used to kill me! You wanna drive?

Ashlyn: Boy! Didn’t I just say I was dog tired? No I don’t want to drive!

Marlon: Okay, okay…you can’t knock me for asking. I want to thank you for something.

Ashlyn: Thank me?

Marlon: yeah for not bringing up the whole Patrick and Gabrielle thing during our honeymoon. I realize that, that whole situation is just so convoluted and I…

Ashlyn: Let me stop you right there. It concerned me when you snuck out to speak to Patrick on the phone. And, it concerned me when that bitch showed up asking for money. BUT…I decided I wasn’t going to allow them to ruin my special day OR my honeymoon for that matter.

Marlon: I understand baby and…

Ashlyn: Hold on! I’m not finished. You need to make it your top #1 priority to handle that old business. I am your wife and I will not be disrespected or violated. I love you, but I love me more. So, get it together!

*******************

Avalon answers the door in a halter top and shorts.

Jessie: Wow! You look great!

Avalon: Uh huh.

Jessie: Listen, don’t act like that. Im here to make things better not worse.

Avalon: So, what’s going on with your Facebook page? One of your women got mad.

Jessie thinks: Damn! She’s intuitive as hell!

Jessie: Uh, naw…just got hacked. Some people told me they got crazy ass e-mails from me too. So…

Avalon: Dang and here I am acting all crazy. That still doesn’t explain why you don’t want to have sex with me Jessie!

Jessie: I do baby, I do. I just want it to be romantic and special. You deserve that.

Avalon: I do huh?

Jessie kisses Avalon and caresses her face. She pulls his body on top of hers and wraps her legs around him. Just then, a bottle falls out of Jessie’s pocket and rattles to the ground.

Avalon: What is that? A pill bottle? You okay?

Jessie: Yeah girl, let’s pick-up where we left off.

Avalon: Nah wait. Antibiotics for what? What do you have?

Rebuilding....

Gabrielle and Wesley are having a telephone conversation…


Gabrielle: Wesley dear…have you checked your FB fan page and your YOUTUBE account? The buzz is ridiculous! I think you owe me a congratulatory dinner.

Wesley: You know, I’ve been thinking…I don’t owe you shit. This buzz that I’VE generated is based on my talents…not yours. So, fuck you Gabrielle!

Gabrielle: Are you saying that you want to terminate your contract? If that’s the case, you owe Silver the $50,000 signing bonus you received. BEFORE…not after you terminate.

Wesley: Hmmm…funny you should say that because there is not a word in my contract about that. You can’t hustle me Gabrielle. While you were busy trying to trap me…I was busy doing my research. Not only am I going to walk with my 50k bonus, I’m going with all my original recordings too. So…yeah, like I was saying…fuck you!

********************

Avalon is in the break room at her job. She reaches into her purse and grabs her phone. She is disappointed that she hasn’t received any texts from Jessie. She logs on to her Facebook account…

Avalon thinks: Why do people always have to put 17 religious scriptures on their page? That is so annoying! You know you were tongue kissin’ some dude at the club last night!

She sees that Jessie has changed his relationship status to “single”. She immediately grabs her things and goes into a conference room.

She dials Jessie’s number…

Jessie: Uh, hey…can I call you back?

Avalon: Sure. Right after you tell me what the hell is going on?

Jessie: Nothing is going on.

Avalon: What are we in the 6th grade? You break up with me by changing your FB relationship status?

Jessie: What? No I didn’t!

Avalon: Explain how it changed Jessie! I know you were a little put off by me being so aggressive but, I had no idea you were this intimidated.

Jessie: First of all, I’m not intimidated. Second of all, I didn’t change my status on FB. I’m never on there anyway…you know that!

Avalon: Well, you need to get on there and see what this is all about then. You must have been hacked.

Jessie: Listen, I’ve got three very ornate cakes going out tomorrow. This is going to be a long day for me. One of the ladies called out sick and I’m pulling double duty. Let me come over tonight. I’ll cook us dinner and we’ll sort this out…

Avalon: Fine Jessie. 8:00pm…don’t be late.

Jessie ends the call with Avalon and calls Karla.

Karla: Why are you calling me?

Jessie: Why are you playing games? Stay off my damn FB page Karla! You are acting like I played you when you’re the one that game me Chlamydia! It’s OVER!

Karla: I know you don’t really mean that.

Jessie: I’ll let you know what I mean when I finish the antibiotics…goodbye!

********************

Peyton: You’re telling me that I’ve been in a coma for a month?

Dr. Wattington: Yes, that’s right. However, it seems you’ve emerged unscathed. After we observe you for a while and run some tests, you should be free to go home in a couple of weeks. Right now…you need your rest. We’ll be checking back very soon.

Peyton realizes she is very tired. She is so afraid to close her eyes but, is forced to do so anyway. Just when she drifts off to sleep…

Aletha: Baby?! Baby?! Thank God you’re awake!

Tears are streaming down her face.

Peyton wakes up and smiles.

Peyton: ‘Letha! I, I…

Aletha hugs Peyton tightly and runs her fingers through her hair. Peyton tries to hug Aletha back but, is lacking strength.

Peyton: The nurse told me you come everyday to read and talk to me. Thank you so much ‘Letha. I guess you are serious about me after all huh?

Peyton smiles. Then, she realizes there is a large scar on the side of Aletha’s face.

Peyton: Oh, my God! What the hell happened?

Aletha: Nothing a few stitches and some plastic surgery couldn’t fix. I’m lucky to be alive…and so are you. We were in an accident you know.

Peyton: Yeah...I remember. So, the nurse called me Mrs. Hill.

Aletha: Well, I wanted you to have me with you at all times and I thought what better way to do that than by giving you my name.

Peyton: Well, thank you…I like that. So, when are we going to make it official?

Aletha gasps.

Aletha: Are you serious? You’ve been through a lot. We have plenty of time to talk about that.

Peyton: That’s just the thing…I realize that we don’t have a lot of time. I want whatever time I have on this Earth to be spent knowing that we are one…

The door opens and Justice walks in.

Justice: Oh my God bae…my momma told me you were…


********************

Drexel and Valencia are at Waffle House. Baby Isis is in her carrier fast asleep.

Valencia: Excuse me Miss. May I have a coffee…black please?

Drexel: Should you be drinking black coffee while you’re breastfeeding?

Valencia: It’s not for me Drex…it’s for you. You still take it black right?

Drexel: Oh…yeah. Thanks.

Valencia: So, I know you want to get this over with. Let’s open the letter.

Valencia tears open the envelope and slowly removes the paper.

Valencia: Here…you read it. I can’t.

Drexel: Fine! Give it to me.

Drexel’s eyes well up with water. He places his hands over his mouth and stares at Isis.

Valencia: What! What is it? What does it say?

She snatches the paper from his hands.

Valencia: Congratulations Drexel…I told you that she was yours.

Drexel: I can’t believe I’ve missed so much already. I, I…think it’s time for you two to come back home.

Valencia: What about Patrick…I am married you know.

Drexel: That’s up to you how you handle that. I know I never stopped loving you. We have some issues to work out but, I know you should be with me. You and Isis are my family.



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

What Goes Around...

We resume this episode with Wesley after Tasha has ended their engagement...

Wesley: I don’t want her. I want you, please…


Tasha: Please stop Wesley. She’s a conniving, vindictive, scornful woman that will make your life hell as soon as you don’t do as she pleases. I wish you best of luck with that.

Tasha walks out the door. Wesley pulls out his phone and texts Gabrielle: Tasha found out, can you come over?

Gabrielle (texting): Good riddance! So, I guess you are serious about your career after all! Be there in a sec!

20 minutes later, Wesley is standing outside his apartment smoking a cigarette. Gabrielle pulls into a parking space.

Gabrielle: Why are you smoking? You should be drinking! This is a joyous day!

Wesley: Cut it out…you know I love her.

Gabrielle: Yeah but, you don’t love her more than you love the promise of a successful career…do you? OR do you want to go back to making $45K as a teacher?

Wesley: Listen, you won okay? I don’t want to talk about Peyton or this whole mess anymore. Just make sure you make my album blow.

Gabrielle walks up to Wesley, and grabs him by the crotch.

Gabrielle: You will listen to whatever I chose to say. You will screw me whenever I chose to screw and you will act like you like it or you will find yourself back in the classroom quicker than you can spell T-E-A-C-H.

She kisses him hard, bites his bottom lip and walks away.

Gabrielle: Ciao!

********************
Avalon and Jessie have just admitted their love for each other...

Avalon: I think it's something in the car I need to show you.

Jessie: In the car? My car?

Avalon: Uh, yeah. That's the only car that belongs to either of us in the parking lot.

She winks and walks away toward the front door...

They stand against the car and share a deep passionate kiss. Avalon unbuttons her blouse and reaches for Jessie’s belt buckle.

Jessie: Av baby! Chill…you’re going to get us caught.

Avalon: That’s what makes it fun! Let’s be spontaneous. Why are you afraid?

Jessie: I’m not afraid, I just thought our first time making love would be romantic not raunchy in the back of my car!

Avalon placed his hand in her panties and said this is the epitome of romance…take me now…

Jessie yanks his hand back and gets in the driver’s seat.

Jessie: Let’s go.

Avalon: Are you serious? We just avowed that we loved each other and making love would be the icing on the cake. What is the real reason that you don't want to do this?

********************

We venture into the lives of Peyton and Aletha ...

Aletha: Let me just look at you, I just want to touch you.

Peyton: NO! THERE’S A CAR COMING!

A car rams into Aletha’s side of the car. The car spins and hits a lamp post. Both women are face down in the air bags.

Peyton opens her eyes and looks around the room. She becomes startled when she realizes where she is. She sees a bouquet of yellow roses next to her bed with a red note attached. She opens the card and reads it aloud: “Peyton, I love you and I’m not going anywhere - Aletha.” She suddenly remembers the accident and sits straight up in the bed. She places her feet on the floor but, is too weak to stand. She hits the nurse’s button.

Nurse: Mrs. Hill?

Peyton: Uh, yes, I need help.

Nurse Baker opens the door. She is accompanied by a doctor.

Dr. Wattington: So, welcome back!

Peyton: Welcome back?

Nurse Baker: Yes honey, you’ve been in Acoma for the past three weeks. Just so you know…we called your wife, she comes to read to you and visit with you everyday.

********************
We visit newborn baby Isis and her mother Valencia...

Isis falls asleep and Valencia kisses her and gently places her in the bassinet. She looks at the birth certificate form and reaches over to the night stand for a pen.

Valencia: Hmmm…Mother’s Full Name.

She writes: Valencia Leona Crixus

Valencia: Father’s Full Name…

She writes: Drexel Amir Coolidge

Three and a half weeks later…

Patrick: I need Isis’ birth certificate for her trust fund papers.

Valencia: Uh, it hasn’t come yet.

Patrick: Really? What is the hold up? Call them and see what’s going on.

Valencia: I’ll call when I put her down for a nap.

Ring, ring…

Valencia: Hello?

Drexel: Is this some kind of joke?

Valencia: What? Uh?

Drexel: Don’t you even think about denying it! You put me on this child’s birth certificate as the father? What is wrong with you?

Valencia: You are her father Drexel! I tried to tell you but, you would never give me a chance!

Drexel: Really? She’s mine? Okay, let’s do a paternity test.

Valencia: Fine…I’ll make an appointment.

Patrick was eavesdropping on Valencia’s call. He becomes enraged.

Patrick: What goes around comes around eh Val?

Valencia: I’m sorry Patrick, I…

Patrick: She is my child…and when the tests come back positive…I’m going to divorce you and take custody.

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

Looks Like Another Love TKO

We begin today’s episode in the Master bedroom of Tasha and Wesley’s townhome. Tasha is meticulously going through the closet, chest of drawers and bathroom gathering all of her belongings.


Wesley: What’s going on?

Tasha: My mama needs me.

Wesley: I need you. You’re going to be my wife and I need you here.

Tasha: Wes, this isn’t going to work between us and I think you know why.

Wesley: I’m sorry about our fight. Ever since it happened I’ve been trying to show that I’m sorry and that I love you. I felt you pulling away from me, but, I had no idea that it was this serious.

Tasha walks up to Wesley, grabs his hand and places her engagement ring in it. She closes his hand creating a fist. She lowers her head and kisses his hand. As she walks past him she caresses his shoulder.

Wesley: Wait! Please don’t leave me, I love you…I really do.

Tasha stops on the staircase and looks back at Wesley.

Tasha: Wesley, tell me this and be truthful.

Wesley: Okay, you have my word.

Tasha: Were you sleeping with Gabrielle before you got your deal at Silver Records?

Wesley: Where is this coming from? I don’t understand. Is this about me and you or Gabrielle?

Tasha: All of the above, answer me.

Wesley looks down and sighs.

Tasha: Exactly. This is why we can’t be together. I put my complete trust in you. But, you’re just a man. I should never have let you become the central figure in my world. I knew that you wanted Gabrielle when we were in school together. I was too blind to realize that she would do anything to hurt me and you would do anything to have her.

Wesley: I…I’m sorry.

Tasha: What did you think? Did you think we were going to get married and live happily ever after? How could we with you working hand in hand with her? That stunt with the wedding planning made you both so damn transparent.

Tasha shakes her head and sighs.

Wesley: I do love you Tasha.

Tasha: Yeah, just not more than you love her. Just do me a favor, meet me tomorrow morning so that we can put the lease completely in your name. You can have all this shit in here because I don’t need any reminders of how big of a fool I’ve been.

Wesley: I don’t want her. I want you, please…

Tasha: Please stop Wesley. She’s a conniving, vindictive, scornful woman that will make your life hell as soon as you don’t do as she pleases. I wish you best of luck with that.

Tasha walks out the door. Wesley pulls out his phone and texts Gabrielle: Tasha found out, can you come over?

********************

It’s Friday night. Avalon and Jessie are at “The Spot” having drinks and listening to the jazz band covering Floetry’s “Getting Late”. Jessie extends his hand to Avalon and the two stand up next to their table and begin to dance. Avalon places her arms around Jessie’s neck and caresses the back of his head. Jessie allows his forehead to gently rest upon Avalon’s forehead. He places his hand on the small of her back and gradually rests his palms on her swaying hips.

Avalon: I’m so glad that I’m here with you tonight. I feel like I’m floating on air.

Jessie responds to her by kissing her gently on her lips.

Jessie: You steal my breath every time you speak.

They realize the song is over and begin to sit down. Jessie pulls out her chair and walks over to his seat.

Avalon: You ready to go?

Jessie: No. Let’s stay a little longer. The band is really killin’ it tonight.

Avalon: Yeah, you’re right. They are on fire.

Jessie: I don’t know if it’s too soon but, I feel like I need to tell you something.

Avalon: Okay…what is it?

Jessie: I want to tell you that my heart stops beating when we’re away from each other. My stomach ties in knots when I see you walk through a room and I want to tell everyone I know how wonderful you are.

Avalon blushes and looks down at her bangles fumbling with them one by one.

Avalon: You’re too much. You know I am totally into you and our situation is a beautiful one. You’re a beautiful man.

Jessie: I love you

Avalon: Don’t just throw that out there. We don’t have to rush.

Jessie: Wow…I feel…embarrassed.

Avalon: No, I uh…I wasn’t trying to act as though I don’t love you too. I just don’t us to rush and ruin our good thing. I do love you…I do.

Jessie: Thank God! I wasn't sure but, I still had to tell you how I felt.

Avalon smiles and extends her hand. 

Avalon:  I think it's something in the car I need to show you.

Jessie:  In the car?  My car?

Avalon:  Uh, yeah.  That's the only car that belongs to either of us in the parking lot.

She winks and walks away toward the front door...

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

Who?

We resume this episode with Valenica.  She is in labor.

Drexel: Call that other negro that you’re with now. Congratulations! Mazel tov! Felicitaciones! La heim! I gotta go.

Valencia: Hello? Hello?

Patrick: Who are you calling?

Valencia: My mama.

Patrick: Okay, well come on. The car is ready. You okay?

Valencia: Yeah, I’m not feeling any contractions right now.

Patrick: Just breathe remember? In through your nose and out through your mouth. We’ll be there in a second.

Valencia: Oh God! I feel another one!

********************

Aletha pulls out a shinny diamond encrusted band out of her purse. She hands it to Peyton.

Peyton: You and I both know we’re not ready for this. The fact that you would even assume that this is going to solve anything makes me wonder if we’ll be ready for it anytime soon. The ink isn’t even dry on your divorce papers for God’s sake.

Aletha: Where do we go from here then?

Peyton: To dinner.

They both walk into the garage and hop into Aletha’s car. They both sit in silence listening to the radio. Peyton begins to sing.

Aletha turns and watches Peyton in amazement.

Peyton: Keep your eyes on the road!

Aletha: I’m sorry it’s just that I didn’t even know that you could sing.

Peyton: Yeah, I dabble a little.

Aletha: I would say that’s more than a dabble, you’ve really got talent. Why do you hide it?

Peyton: When my parents died, I stopped singing. When I’m upset or need comfort it just comes out. I don’t know why.

Aletha: So, are you upset?

Peyton: I’m just confused. I feel like we’ve gone through so much and it hasn’t even been a year yet. What does that say about us? I have never cared about Black, White, Gay or Straight. I’ve always followed my heart and up until now, I was sure that, that was the right decision.

Aletha: Is this about being a lesbian or about me? Because you know I took a chance on us too Peyton. I’m basically supporting us financially and I’m trying to be there for you emotionally too.

Peyton: Listen Aletha, just because I make $16/hr doesn’t mean I’m not contributing. And anyway, that has nothing to do with what I was trying to say. What I’m saying is, is that I don’t know if this is what YOU really want. I didn’t take it slow with you so, I’m learning as I go and I just want to know if you’re in this because you want to be committed to a life with me.

Aletha: Why would I give you a ring if that wasn’t the case? I love you baby. I’m sorry about Mr. Phillip and about not telling you that Greg had herpes. I guess I’m not used to full disclosure…or monogamy for that matter. But, you make me want to be better.

Peyton: I love you too. I want this to work.

Aletha: It will.

Aletha looks at Peyton and caresses her face.

Peyton: Keep your eyes on the road!

Aletha: Let me just look at you, I just want to touch you.

Peyton: NO! THERE’S A CAR COMING!

A car rams into Aletha’s side of the car. The car spins and hits a lamp post. Both women are face down in the air bags.
********************

Valencia is sitting up in the hospital bed nursing Isis. Patrick has gone home to pick up the car seat for the baby.

There is a knock at the door.

Valencia: Come in!

Nurse: Hi mom! Congratulations! I have the birth certificate information here for you to fill out. When you’re done, just press the button on your bed and we’ll come pick it up for you.

Valencia: Oh, okay…thank you.

Isis falls asleep and Valencia kisses her and gently places her in the bassinet. She looks at the birth certificate form and reaches over to the night stand for a pen.

Valencia: Hmmm…Mother’s Full Name.

She writes: Valencia Leona Crixus

Valencia: Father’s Full Name…

She writes: Drexel Amir Coolidge

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

Congratulations! Mazel tov! Felicitaciones! La heim!

Tasha: Mama what did the doctor say?


Rose: Well, he said that he thinks that the severe headaches are due to stress. Since I’ve taken every medication and had two MRIs he is suggesting that I go on disability at work. He thinks that on the job stress could be the source of my headaches.

Tasha: Oh lord mama! How will you make it on disability pay? Can you make it on disability pay?

Rose: Well, I don’t have a choice I don’t believe. When I was raising you and your sisters, I made much less than I do now and it was five mouths to feed instead of just one. I think I can manage.

Tasha: Well, I was thinking that maybe I should come home and help you out. You know, just until your health improves.

Rose: What about Wesley? I’m surprised to hear you say that you’d leave him.

Tasha: Wesley is just not who I thought he was mom. The wedding is off.

Rose: The wedding is off! Lord have mercy! I just got Reverend Jacobs to agree to officiate and now it’s off?

Tasha: Look mama, I know you’re disappointed but, I just don’t feel he is the one for me. I don’t want to make a huge mistake and get married only to find out that I’m miserable.

Rose: All married people are miserable Tashanae! Now, what has gotten into you girl? What is going on?

Tasha: Mama, I talked to Gabrielle and she told me that the only reason Silver Records signed Wesley is because he was sleeping with her.

Rose: Gabrielle? Where do I remember that name from? I know! Is that the young lady you got into it with in your sorority house? It sho’ is her! How on Earth did you manage to take up with her again? You know she don’t mean you no well…why would you listen to what she has to say?

Tasha: I had a hunch and she confirmed it mama. I can’t stay with a man that isn’t true to me.

Rose: Well ain’t none of ‘em all that “true”. I think you should talk to Wesley. Now go on and call me back….I’m tired.

Tasha: I love you mama.

Rose: I love you Tashanae…talk to Wesley ya hear?

Tasha: Yes ma’am. You get some rest…ya hear? Bye, bye.

****************************
Valencia: Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh!

Patrick: What the hell is wrong with you? Why are you screaming and holding your stomach?

He gasped as he realized she’s in labor.

Patrick: Okay, okay, um, where is the bag? I’ve got the keys, I need to call Dr. Krantz and…

Valencia: Patrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrick! Let’s go noooooooooooooow! He, he, whooooooo, he, he, whoooooooooo!

Patrick: Okay Val, I’m going to pull the car in front. Don’t worry baby, everything is going to be okay.

Valencia rummages through her purse and pulls out her cell phone. She hastily dials a number.

Drexel: Hello?

Valencia: Drexel it’s me. Don’t hang up! Listen I’m sorry about everything. Please come to Carter General…the baby is coming!

Drexel: Call that other negro that you’re with now. Congratulations! Mazel tov! Felicitaciones! La heim! I gotta go.

Valencia: Hello? Hello?

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

To Dinner...

We resume this episode at Peyton and Aletha's house...

Aletha: Yeah, uh oh is right…who are you?


Justice: Who me? Oh, I’m just a friend of Peyton’s…a nobody.

Aletha: A nobody that calls my fiancé babycakes?

Peyton: No, he’s the same kind of nobody that your boss is.

Justice: Listen Cakes, I’ll catch you later. Think about what I said.

Justice kisses Peyton on the cheek and brushes by Aletha on his way out the door.

Justice: Uh, nice to meet you ma’am.

Aletha: Yeah, the pleasure was all yours.

Peyton: So, I’m your fiancé now? When did that happen?

Aletha: If you explain yourself out of this mess, it might happen right now.

Peyton: You know, you are so self righteous. Do you think that just because I haven’t been on you about that little tryst that you and your boss had; that I’m not hurt and annoyed by you?

Aletha: If you’re so hurt and annoyed why are you still here?

Peyton: I’m here because I love you. I’m here because both of us came into this relationship under the pretense that we wanted to be truly in love…not with just anyone but, with each other. And I’m here because I’m not a quitter.

Aletha: I, I’m sorry about Mr. Phillip. It was going on long before you and I and I just didn’t want to break it off. I didn’t know how he would react.

Peyton: What about me? First you know Greg had herpes, and you didn’t tell me. Then, I find out that you’re secretly screwing your boss? You have to understand how unscrupulous you look right now.

Aletha: First of all, I don’t have herpes, Greg does and that’s why I never told you. Second of all, I realize that I was wrong about Mr. Phillip but, I refuse to apologize on a loop. I said it more than once and I’m done.

Peyton: Okay, since we’re being so forthright, I did sleep with Justice, but, I don’t love him.

Aletha: You slept with that, that…teenager?

Peyton: He is no teenager, he’s a grown man…trust me. That isn’t the point, the point is that you’ve been so aloof, working long hours and making me feel insecure about your relationship with your boss. Justice has been here on those long, cold nights.

Aletha looks surprised.

Aletha: Okay…I deserve that. Can we just start over.

She pulls out a shinny diamond encrusted band out of her purse. She hands it to Peyton.

Peyton: You and I both know we’re not ready for this. The fact that you would even assume that this is going to solve anything makes me wonder if we’ll be ready for it anytime soon. The ink isn’t even dry on your divorce papers for God’s sake.

Aletha: Where do we go from here then?

Peyton: To dinner.

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

One Finger Up...

We resume this episode outside of Marlon and Ashlyn's wedding reception...

Patrick: Hello.


Marlon: You married Valencia? What is going on with you Patrick?

Ashlyn: No! What is going on with YOU MARLON!?!

Marlon holds one finger up and walks away from Ashlyn. He steps on a rock and winces. Ashlyn stomps her foot and sucks her teeth.  She walks away frustrated.

Patrick: I don’t know what you’re talking about Marlon. Shouldn’t you be enjoying your wedding day?

Marlon: Enjoying my wedding day? Are you serious Patrick? First I hear that you’ve married Valencia, then, you send Gabrielle to hit me up for some money! You’ve dropped to surprising new lows.

Patrick: What I do in my personal life doesn’t concern you. I didn’t send Gabrielle to do anything. I have turned over a new leaf in my life and I don’t even associate with her. So, I suggest you pay more attention to your wife than to me.

Marlon: Maybe you should pay more attention to yours, she looks like she’s going to drop that baby any day now.  Poor child that baby has no idea what it's up against.

Patrick: What do you mean she looks like? You saw her?

Marlon: Yes fool! How do you think I found out about you two? She was bragging to Ashlyn right after the ceremony.

Patrick: Listen Marlon. Good luck. I have to go.

Marlon: NO! What you have to do is tell that girl that you don’t love her. Don’t ruin her life Patrick. Hello? Hello!

Dial tone……


Ring, ring, ring…

Valencia: Hello.

Patrick: You went to their wedding after I asked you not to?

Valencia: Yes, I did. I wanted to wish them well. What are you spying on me?

Patrick: Valencia, you are pregnant with my child and you’re due any day now. You could at least be honest with me and tell me where you’re going so I know that the two of you are alright.

Valencia: I’m sorry. I just wanted everyone to know that you and I are together now and that we’re happy.

Patrick: So, you go to my ex-wife and ex-partner’s wedding? How do you think that made you look…going there without me? You looked foolish and childish.

Valencia: Okay fine. You’re right. Did Gabrielle say that they would pay her?

Patrick: No, but they will….they will.



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

Baby Cakes...

It’s 7pm at Aletha and Peyton’s house. Peyton’s is boiling water for pasta. She starts chopping vegetables and tosses them into the saucepan which is full of tomato sauce. She has garlic bread in the oven and wine chilling in the freezer. When the phone rings, Peyton turns to answer it and burns her hand on the pot of boiling pasta.


Peyton: Oh God damn it!

She answers the phone.

Peyton: Uh, hello.

Aletha: Hey babe, it’s me. What’s the matter? You sound like you’re in pain.

Peyton: Oh, nothing. I just burned the hell out of my hand trying to fix dinner.

Aletha: About dinner…I…

Peyton: Let me guess…you have to work late. No, no…you have a dinner appointment…that’s right a dinner appointment. Which one is it?

Aletha: Actually, I wanted to tell you that I wanted to take you out tonight. You deserve a break after the grueling summer you’ve spent working at the zoo. You shouldn’t have to work with the animals all day only to come home and have to work like an animal too.

Peyton: Well, I feel stupid. I’m sorry, I’d love to go out with you. Let me finish things up and take a shower. I’ll be ready around 9ish. Is that okay?

Aletha: Yes angel..that’s fine. See you soon.

Peyton: See you later. Bye-bye!

Peyton drains the pasta and dumps it into the tomato sauce. She takes the bread out of the oven and wraps it in foil. She turns off the eyes on the stove and washes her hands in the sink. The warm water feels like one million needles pricking her freshly burned skin.

Peyton: Ow! Crap! Shit!

Justice: Hey, hey, what’s up with all these expletives?

Justice walks up behind Peyton and wraps his arms around her waist. She leans back into his embrace and fills her lungs with the heavy musk that is lingering in the air around him.

Peyton: Hey! Oh, It’s nothing, I burned my hand cooking. But…now that you’re awake, why don’t you take a to go plate and well…go.

Justice: Oh, it’s like that huh? Use me and abuse me! I see how you do.

Peyton: Shut up boy, I was just trying to send you off to Africa properly. Couldn’t have you going on that long trip carrying the burden off all that sexual tension now could I?

She smiles a coy and mischievous smile.

Justice: Seriously girl. I want you to reconsider this situation you’re in. I think we’d make a good pair.

Peyton: Seriously Justice, I think you had better grab this food and go! Go on now!

Justice: Alright, alright…promise you’ll think about it.

Peyton: I promise now go!

Aletha walks in the kitchen.

Aletha: You promise what? Who are you talking to?

Justice walks into the room, food and keys in hand.

Justice: Thanks for the food baby cakes I’ll… uh oh.

Aletha: Yeah, uh oh is right…who are you?

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

What is Going on With You Marlon?

We resume this episode at Marlon and Ashlyn's reception...

Marlon: Is this thing on? Hey everybody, I hope you’re having a good time. I just wanted to tell my beautiful bride, Ashlyn, that I love her and I’m so honored to be her husband. You are the air that I breathe baby.


Ashlyn begins to cry as she approaches the band stand. She takes the microphone.

Ashlyn: I love you too Patrick!

People in the crowd gasp. Ashlyn is initially surprised at their reaction then, she realizes what she has done and covers her mouth with her hands. Her eyes become large as they well up with tears. She is truly embarrassed. Marlon takes the microphone and says…

Marlon: Hey baby, I told you to only call me Patrick when we’re alone.

The crowd laughs as though they believe the incident was planned. Marlon hugs Ashlyn tight and whispers in her ear.

Marlon: What the hell was that?

Ashlyn: Valencia is Mrs. Patrick Crixus now and we were just talking about that before I came up here!

Marlon ends the hug and searches the crowd for Valencia. He speaks into the microphone…

Marlon: We want to thank you all for coming to share our special day with us. Please enjoy the food, drinks and music!

They both leave the bandstand and sit at the lovebird’s table. Their food has already been prepared for them. They sit down and start eating.

Ashlyn: I am really sorry you know. I just couldn’t believe she would do something so stupid!

Marlon: Yeah, she’s officially off of her rocker. But, don’t let their drama ruin our day.

Gabrielle approaches their table dressed in a floor length cream dress holding a gold box.

Gabrielle: Why hello you two. I just wanted to drop-in and bring you all a little something from Silver records. You know KAMA does all of our events and we simply couldn’t let the owner slash Executive Chef get married and not bring him and his new bride a gift! It’s a romance bundle complete with candles, scented oils, chocolates, a spa gift certificate and a copy of our newest artist, Wesley’s LP.

Marlon: That’s funny, I simply couldn’t have imagined our wedding day with you as a guest. Speak of the damn devil and the saints appear! So, are you here to spy with Valencia? Did Patrick send some henchmen to ruin our day?

Ashlyn: Baby remember what you JUST said? Gabrielle, thank you for the gift. Would you care to stay for a drink?

Gabrielle: Uh, no dear. I would however care for my 40% of your now combined estate. Was that not the deal Marlon?

Marlon gives Gabrielle a cold stare.

Ashlyn: Bitch please! I tried to be cordial but, you have 2.2 seconds to get the hell out of here or I will personally jump down your throat, tap dance on your tonsils and make it so they’ll have to give you a whistle to communicate!

Gabrielle: Such hostility isn’t good for your spirit Ashlyn. You all will be hearing from me.

Gabrielle picks up Marlon’s champagne, drinks the entire glass and slams it down on the table. She places her clutch under her arm and walks away.  Marlon walks towards the grassy space outside of the tent.  Ashlyn gets up and follows him.  He is fumbling with his phone and doesn't notice that she's trailing him.  Ashlyn stops short of going outside and comforting him.  She sits at a nearby table feigning a conversation with some guests.

Marlon's phone begins to dial someone.
Ring, ring, ring.

Patrick:  Hello.

Marlon:  You married Valencia?  What is going on with you Patrick?

Ashlyn:  No!  What is going on with YOU MARLON!?!

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