Part 43 (1/2)

I can still hear those sobs. So lost . . . so heartbroken.

BILL.

Kate, have you ever thought you recognized someone on the street, and called her, and when she finally turned around it was a total stranger?

KATIE.

Yes, once. In Seattle. I was in a mall and I thought I saw my old roommate. I . . . oh. I see what you're saying.

BILL.

Sure. There are sound-alikes as well as look-alikes.

KATIE.

But . . . you know your own. At least I thought so until tonight.

She puts her cheek on his shoulder, looking troubled.

KATIE.

I was so positive it was Polly . . .

BILL.

Because you've been worried about her getting her feet under her at the new school . . . but judging from the stuff she told you tonight, I'd say she's doing just fine in that department. Wouldn't you?

KATIE.

Yes . . . I guess I would.

BILL.

Let it go, hon.

KATIE (looks at him closely) I hate to see you looking so tired. Hurry up and have an idea, you.

BILL.

Well, I'm trying.

KATIE.

You coming to bed?

BILL.

Soon as I finish taping this for Jeff.

KATIE (amused) Bill, that machine was made by j.a.panese technicians who think of d.a.m.ned near everything. It'll run on its own.

BILL.

Yeah, but it's been a long time since I've seen this one, and . . .

KATIE.

Okay. Enjoy. I think I'll be awake for a little while. (Pause) I've got a few ideas of my own.

BILL (smiles) Yeah?

KATIE.

Yeah.

She starts out, showing a lot of leg, then turns in the doorway as something else strikes her.

KATIE.

If they show that part where the punk's head gets - BILL (guiltily) I'll edit it.

KATIE.

'Night. And thanks again. For everything.

She leaves. BILL sits in his chair.

INT. TV, CU.

A couple is necking in a car. Suddenly the pa.s.senger door is ripped open by the dead guy and we DISSOLVE TO: INT. KATIE, IN BED.

It's dark. She's asleep. She wakes up . . . sort of.

KATIE (sleepy) Hey, big guy - She feels for him, but his side of the bed is empty, the coverlet still pulled up. She sits up. Looks at: INT. A CLOCK ON THE NIGHT-TABLE, KATIE'S POV.

It says 2:03 A.M. Then it flashes to 2:04.

INT. KATIE.

Fully awake now. And concerned. She gets up, puts on her robe, and leaves the bedroom.

INT. THE TV SCREEN, CU.

Snow KATIE (voice, approaching) Bill? Honey? You okay? Bill? Bi - INT. KATIE, IN BILL'S STUDY.

She's frozen, wide-eyed with horror.

INT. BILL, IN HIS CHAIR.

He's slumped to one side, eyes closed, hand inside his s.h.i.+rt. DAWN was sleeping. BILL is not.