Ext. House - night
It is late.  Dark.  Still.  Headlights suddenly illuminate a dirt road as a CAR drives up.
Tires crackling over the gravel and rocks disrupts the stillness.
The car suddenly stops.
A car door swings open.
A tall male figure steps out of the car.  In the dim light, he is only partially visible.  His body is sturdy, imposing, powerful, but in an almost fatherly way.  Handsome DR. ARTHUR BOTOLF, mid 40's, opens the passenger door.
And reaches out his hand.
A delicate hand grips it.
A slim leg slips from the car.  A high heel tries to plant on the ground.
His wife, HELEN BOTOLF, a thin, elegant woman, mid 20's, exits the car very carefully.  She is impeccably dressed, with an expensive scarf. There is something regal about her.  
She steps gingerly, walking very slowly.
Arthur and Helen walk carefully over the gravel.
They arrive at the front door.
Arthur fumbles for his keys.  He pulls them out, but it is too dark to find the door lock.
He takes out his cell phone and illuminates the lock.
He opens the door.
He helps Helen inside the house.
And pulls the key out of the door.
Int. House - niGHT
Helen and Arthur stand in the dark foyer.  Arthur reaches around the wall, trying to find the light switch.
He can't find it.  He pulls out his cell phone and shines the light around the foyer.  It is dark and creepy.
Helen stands stiff.  Not moving.
Arthur finds the light switch.  He flicks it.  Nothing happens.
HelEN
What's the matter?
ARTHUR
Bulb must be out.  
Arthur takes Helen's arm.  He guides her forward.
HELEN (O.S.)
Do you have me?
ARTHUR 
Always.  
HELEN
Can you see anything?
ARTHUR
Yes. Remember the stairs?
HELEN
I don't remember much about this place except I didn't like it much.
They head up the stairs with Arthur lighting the way with his cell phone.
ArTHUR
What are you talking about?  This is a great place.
HelEN
Is cold-- dark. 
They continue their way up the stairs.
ArTHUR
You'll light it up princess.
HelEN
(sarcastic)
Yeah, right.  Especially now.
ARTHUR
Don't say that. 
Helen stops walking.
HeLEN
I'm bearing the burden here.  It's my fault.  Everything's my fault. Why couldn't we just disappear?
Arthur looks over at her.
ArTHUR
I can't just leave everything I've built.  We'll stay here.  We'll figure it out.  Come on.
INT. mid-stairs ROOM - SAME
A DOOR OPENS AJAR as Arthur takes her arm and continues helping her up the stairs. Someone is watching them.
The door closes slowly after they fade out of sight.
Int. Bedroom - niGHT
Helen sits on the bed, still wearing her scarf. Arthur takes off her shoes.  A nightgown is laid out on the bed next to her.  He sets it on her lap.
ArTHUR
Get ready for bed.  You'll feel better in the morning.
HelEN
Doubt that.
ARTHUR
Helen, what you have is temporary.
HELEN
You keep saying that.
ArTHUR
Everything will pass. The feelings will pass too. I know they will.  You'll wake up each day and the past will become more distant.  Until one day ...
HelEN
... I'll never forget what happened.
ArTHUR
You will.
HelEN
I won't.
ArTHUR
Someday.  You'll see.  You'll realize that was not your fault.
Arthur takes some pills out of his pocket and hands her them along with a glass of water.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
Take these.  Help you sleep.
Helen sighs.  She takes the pills and drinks the water.
Arthur kisses her head and heads out of the room.
Helen unwraps her scarf and sets it on a night stand.  She starts to unbutton her shirt, as we...
DiSSOLVE TO:
Int. Bathroom - moRNING
CLOSE ON:
FINGERS BUTTONING UP A DRESS SHIRT
Arthur is freshly showered.  His hair perfectly slicked back as he looks in the mirror. He finishes buttoning up his shirt.  He puts a tie around his neck and ties it.  The knot is not perfect.  He takes it off and starts again.  Making sure the knot is exactly the right size. 
He tightens it up to his neck as we:
Cut TO:
Int. Bedroom - same
Helen is sleeping.  Peacefully.  She is wearing an eye mask and looks like a sleeping beauty.
Arthur looms over her.
ArTHUR
Princess.
Helen lifts her head, groggy.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
I'm leaving.
HelEN
Huh?
ArTHUR
I have to go to work.
HelEN
Don't leave.  I thought--
ArTHUR
I won't be late. 
HelEN
I can't be alone.
Arthur grabs his wallet and keys from the dresser.
ArTHUR
You're not going to be alone.  Rosa will be here.
HelEN
Who?
ArTHUR
My old housekeeper.  I called her.  She'll stay with you.  Take care of things.
HelEN
But I want you-- I can't--
Arthur kisses her on the forehead.
ArTHUR
You'll have Rosa.  Anything you need.
Arthur heads out of the room.  Helen sits up.  She pulls off the eye mask and looks around.
HelEN
(frustrated)
This place is still dark-- I hate this darkness.
Sunlight is streaming through the window.
Ext. House - morniNG
Arthur heads to his car, briefcase in hand.  An attractive woman in her late 30's, holding a small dog, is standing at the end of the driveway.  She is wearing a skimpy bathrobe and little else.  This is LILA.
Lila
Hey, Stranger!
Arthur looks over at her.
ArTHUR
Morning, Lila.
Lila approaches him, provocatively.
LiLA
When'd you get in?
ArTHUR
Last night.
LiLA
You staying?  Or just checking on the place.
ArTHUR
Probably be here for awhile.
LiLA
Good.  Come visit.
Arthur gets into his car.  
Lila's cleavage parks on the window. 
ArTHUR
(uncomfortable)
Gotta get to work.
Lila stands back slowly. Arthur backs down the driveway disturbed, leaving Lila standing with her dog. 
Int. House - kitchen - daY
ROSA, a middle-aged Latino woman is cleaning up.  Wiping the counters with a paper towel.  She speaks broken English and is somewhat humorless.  
Helen sits at the table drinking a cup of tea.
She is wearing sunglasses.
HELEN
Can you see if you find my scarf?
ROSA
Of course Miss.
Rosa starts to head out.
HelEN
Have you ever taken care of anyone before?  Like me I mean-- of course this is temporary.
Rosa
I take care, lots of people, Miss Helen.  I clean.  I cook.
HelEN
(not impressed)
Perfect.
RoSA
My cousin got runned over by a tractor.  Legs cut out. No good. 
I take care of him.
Helen tries to force a smile.
HelEN
Great.
RosA
He do good now.  Got himself a better work with no legs now, than when he was complete. Work with 
computadoras in big company.  No problem.
HELEN
Wonderful.
Helen accidentally knocks over her cup. 
She tries to mop up the spill with a napkin.  Seems not to be able to find the spill.  She loses it and starts crying. Rosa hurries over.
RoSA
Don't worry, Miss Helen.  I clean it.
Rosa wipes up the spill, but Helen breaks down crying.
RoSA (CONT'D)
No worry.  All cleaned up.  Didn't break.
Helen cries.
RosA (CONT'D)
Nothing broken.
Rosa pats her back.
RoSA (CONT'D)
Is okay, Miss, is okay.
Helen takes a long breath.
It's all a big blur.
DiSSOLVE TO:
Int. living room - day
A blurry MALE HAND PRESSES a flesh as we slowly sharpen focus to see the hand ON THE SMALL CURVE OF A WOMAN'S BACK.
DERRELL (o.S.)
Breathe.
The hand moves a stethoscope to another place on the back.
DeRRELL (o.S.) (CONT'D)
Again.
DR. DERRELL, an older man, distinguished-looking, old school, listens to Helen's breathing through a stethoscope.
DeRRELL (CONT'D)
And one more time.
Helen takes another breath.
Derrell takes the stethoscope off and looks at Arthur who is standing beside them.
DerRELL (CONT'D)
Vitals are fine, Arthur.
arthur
Psychosomatic?
DerRELL
The symptoms are real.
Derrell shines a light in Helen's right eye.
He looks intently in her eye.
DeRRELL (CONT'D)
But, she is responding to some stimulation.  Which is a good sign.
ArTHUR
She told me she can see shapes on occasion.  Some lights.  But nothing is clear.
HelEN
I am here, you know.  
ArTHUR
Of course, darling.
HelEN
You talk about me as if I'm not even here.
ArTHUR
I'm just trying to explain the situation.  Derrell was good enough to come over given the situation and--
HelEN
I can answer my own questions.
ArTHUR
(as to a child)
Please.  Tell him.
HelEN
Things are hazy.  Dark.  Unfocused. I don't know. It fluctuates.
Derrell
The prognosis isn't clear.  You might see again.  You may not.  It's hard to say.
Helen
I can't see a goddamned thing! Why? What is this thing? Just tell me!
Helen stands up.
Derrell clears his throat.
DerRELL
Helen, you are --
Derrell glazes to Arthur.
Arthur nods.
DERRELL (CONT'D)
Although clinically your vision is considered low, your exams results are inconclusive. Right now with your vision acuity you are considered legally blind. 
Helen freezes ...
deRRELL (CONT'D)
I understand it's hard to live with it but you need to accept it and move on. It's not the end of the world. They have great programs for blinds--
... and stamps on the ground.
HeLEN
Rosa!
ArTHUR
Helen calm down.  
HelEN
You don't tell me-- you said that this would pass. Now you're telling me can last forever?
Rosa enters the room.
RoSA
What happen?
ArTHUR
Princess ...
HelEN
Don't princess me Arthur.(to Rosa) Get me out of here!
RoSA
(taking her arm)
Of course, Miss Helen.
DerRELL
I didn't mean to be harsh but for now, you'll just have to live as though you'll never see again.
HelEN
Shut your mouth!  You hear me?  Stupid doctors!  Think they know everything and when it counts they know nothing! 
Rosa escorts her out of the room.
Arthur looks over, apologetic at Derrell.
ArTHUR
I'm sorry, Dan. Sometimes she acts like a child. 
Derrell shrugs, putting his scopes and equipment back in his medical bag.
DeRRELL
It's to be expected.  She's had a hard time of it. We only do what we know.
Arthur nods.
Int. Bedroom - latER
Rosa puts Helen in bed.  Covers her up with blankets.
RoSA
Just rest Miss.  You need to rest.
Silent tears rolls down Helen's face. She closes her eyes.
Dissolve to:
Ext. Mountain trail - day
Helen's EYES opens to a beautiful, bright sunny day.  Sky is blue.  Light breeze blowing through the trees along a mountain trail.
She walks among the natural setting. Smile on her face.  She is not particularly dressed for hiking, but rather more for a stroll down Rodeo Drive.  The wrong clothes and shoes.  Impeccable hair and full of accessories. However, she looks at peace as she walks among the trees and flowers.
Several YOUNG SCHOOL GIRLS, are walking among her.  Laughing and giggling.  The Girl Scouts seem to find Helen amusing, but they are enjoying the hike.
One soulful-looking girl in particular, stifles a giggle as she watches Helen trip in her high heels as she tries to keep up with the girls.  Helen smiles back at her.  Not minding that even though she looks out of place, she feels at home.
We close in on Helen's beaming face, as we...
DiSSOLVE TO:
Int. bedroom - late afternoon
Helen's face.  Still beaming.  As her heads rests on the pillow.
Her eyes blink open.  She sits up, still smiling and looks around the room.
Everything looks clear.
She gets out of bed.  Walks across the room.  She steps lightly.  Her small frame moving gracefully, easily.
She sits down at her make-up table and reaches for her eye liner.  Put it on. Both eyes.
She then picks up her lipstick and starts to put it on her face. Traces the bottom lip slowly.
IN THE MIRROR
Helen looks beautiful, bright.
BACK TO HELEN
As she moves the lipstick along her top lip.
IN THE MIRROR
We see Helen close up.
Eye liner and lipstick smeared all over her face. Horrifying.
It is obvious she cannot see what she is doing at all.
ROSA
Walks into the room and see's Helen's face.
She SCREAMS in HORROR.
HELEN
Is startled by the scream.  She gets up suddenly and turns sharply.
She smashes into the chair.  Not being able to see where she is going.
Her reverie is broken and reality sinks in.  She is still blind.
She screams and shakes.
Rosa rushes to her.
RoSA
Is okay.  Is okay.
HELEN
I'm blind!  I'm fucking blind Rosa!
RoSA
Don't worry.  I help you.
HelEN
I'm worthless.  Useless!
Rosa hugs her, trying to hold her down.
RoSA
I call Dr. Arthur.
HelEN
The great doctor will save us all!
Rosa manages to get Helen over to the chair.  She sits her down.
Helen collapses into the chair.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
I've always been a stupid useless girl.  And now even more.  I never had to do anything for myself.  Had everything done for me.  So why should I expect anything else?  Confined to my throne like the princess I am.
Rosa soothes her head.
Int. Doctor's office - day
A YOUNG TEENAGE FEMALE PATIENT slowly undresses in a patient room.  The door is slightly ajar.
Int. doctOR'S OFFICE - hall - same
Arthur stands just outside the door.  Talking on his cell phone.
In the background, we CAN SEE the female patient with her shirt off.
ArTHUR
It's all right.  Don't worry.  I'll get home as soon as I can.
Arthur picks up the chart from the door.  He lingers slightly at the door.  He could be waiting for the female to put on her dressing gown, or taking a quick peek.  We're not quite sure.
As she finishes putting on the gown, he enters the room loudly, announcing himself.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
Let's see what we have here...
Ext. House - latER
Arthur's car pulls into the driveway.
He steps out of the car.  He has a large bag of take-out from a nice restaurant.  He pulls out a bouquet of flowers. 
Int. house - early evening
Helen sits at her make-up table.  Gloomy.  Arthur stands behind her.  He puts the bouquet of flowers under her nose.
ArTHUR
Your favorite.
Helen pushes them away.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
Come on-- we'll have a nice dinner.  Relax.  You'll feel better.
He kisses her neck.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
You're still beautiful, you know.
He kisses her again.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
I can tell you how you look.
He touches her shoulder.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
You have beautiful slim shoulders.
He runs his finger up her neck.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
Gorgeous neck.  Like a swan.
He runs his fingers through her hair.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
Flowing hair.
She starts to loosen up.  Succumbing to his advances.
She picks up the flowers and smells them.
HelEN
What color are they?
ArTHUR
Red.  And orange.  And yellow.  Just how you like them.
Helen pulls one out of the bouquet.
HelEN
Can you put one in my hair?
Arthur pulls a pocket knife from his pants.  He cuts the stem.
He places the flower in her hair.
ArTHUR
Do you want me to brush it?
Helen shakes her head, "No."
HelEN
I can get ready for you.
Arthur kisses her on the head.
ArTHUR
Can't wait.
HELEN
Honey, did you see my scarf?
ARTHUR
No. The last time I've seen it was on your night stand.
He disappears out of the room.  Helen picks up a brush.
She brushes her hair.
Int. Closet - nighT
Helen feels her way through the closet.  Touching the dresses, shirts.  Trying to figure out what to wear.
She pulls a dress off the hanger.  Feels it. 
Slips off her outfit and puts on a buttoned dress.
And tries to buttons it up. Makes it all wrong.
Suddenly-- A FIGURE CROSSES THE FRAME-- Helen feels it.
She freezes.  Frightened.  
HeLEN
Arthur?
A LOUD THUMP
She feels her way along the wall.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
Is that you?
She hears another RUSTLING NOISE.
Helen moves out of the closet and yells--
HelEN (CONT'D)
Arthur?
ArTHUR (o.S.)
Not quite ready.
Int. dining room - samE
Arthur is putting the finishing touches on setting the table.  He is making an elegant table with wine glasses and gourmet food. He tears the champagne cover with his pocket knife.
HELEN (O.S.)
It's something here!
ArTHUR
Don't come down.  I'm almost finished.  
Int. Bedroom - niGHT
Helen feels her way across the room. 
She HEARS another BANG and then LIGHT FOOTSTEPS.
Helen gasps with fear.
HeLEN
Damn you, Arthur!  Get upstairs!
Int. dining room - samE
Arthur puts down a serving tray with hors d'ouevres.
ArTHUR
One more minute.  
Int. Bedroom - niGHT
Helen presses her ear against the wall.  Trying to listen.
Arthur walks into the room.
ArTHUR
What are you doing?
HeLEN
There's something up here.
ARTHUR
What are you talking about?
HelEN
The walls.  Something in there.  I heard noises.
Arthur presses his ear against the wall.  He looks at her.
ArTHUR
I don't hear anything.
HelEN
It was there.  I heard it.
Arthur shrugs.
ARTHUR
Probably the wind.  Come on-- I made us a feast.
He fixes her dress and her hair.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
(taking her hand)
You look wonderful.
HeLEN
(still puzzled)
I did the best I could.
ARTHUR
(patiently fixing the buttons)
It's perfect.
CUT TO:
Int. DINING ROOM - niGHT
Arthur and Helen sit at the elegantly set table.  Filled with food and flowers.
Arthur pours some champagne for them.
He brings the glass over to Helen and hands it to her.
He clinks her glass and takes a drink.
ArTHUR
It's your favorite.
Helen takes a sip.
Arthur drinks his glass and pours another one.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
Have as much as you want princess. We have plenty.  The cellar's full.
Helen nods.
Cut TO:
Int. BEDROOM - lATER
CLOSE ON A PRETTY BOX TIED WITH A RIBBON
Pull back to see-- Arthur handing the box to Helen who is seated on the bed.
HelEN
What's this?
ArTHUR
Little something.
He guides her hands on the box.
She unwraps the ribbon.  He helps her slide it off the box.
She opens the box top and feels around the tissue paper.
She pulls out something silky. 
Rubs it against her cheek.
HELEN
What is it?
ArTHUR
An outfit.  For bed.
HelEN
This is for you or me?
ArTHUR
Is from your favorite store.
HelEN
What does it look like?
Helen holds it up.  It is a very skimpy nightgown.
ArTHUR
(putting it on her hands)
It's pink. And--
HelEN
(feeling it)
--silky. I can feel it.
ArTHUR
It's very nice.  Try it on.

Helen smiles, stands up with the nightgown and walks toward the bathroom.
Int. Bedroom - niGHT
In the dim light, Helen lies in the bed, wearing the nightgown.  Arthur kisses her.  Trying to be romantic.  It is obvious Helen is not into it.  But lets him kiss her anyway, as she lies there. He continues eager for her. It's been a long time. Helen is motionless.
Arthur stops kissing her frustrated.
ArTHUR
Too soon?
Helen nods.
Arthur reluctantly moves away from her. 
Arthur curls up on the other side of the bed with his blanket. 
Helen doesn't move.
HeLEN
I'm going to call Cybelle tomorrow.
Arthur mumbles.
ArTHUR
See if she'll read my fortune.
HelEN
She's not a fortune teller.  
ArTHUR
(clearly upset)
Whatever.
Arthur slides under his pillow and goes to sleep.
Helen lies on her back.  Still.  Not sleeping.
Int bedroom - later
Helen can't sleep. 
She goes to the balcony for some fresh air. 
Ext. Bedroom balcony - same
Helen's delicate feet slowly strolls along the balcony. 
And stops for a moment for Helen to feel the breeze on her face.
Helen turns back.
A LITTLE GIRL is standing still right in front of her. 
It's all a blur. 
Helen starts to walk back.
Trips over something.
Begins to stumble.
Tries to hold on to the rail ... 
... BAMM.
Face first.
Arthur comes running to see Helen laying over a broken plant pot.
CuT TO:
Int. living ROOM - daY
CYBELLE, a mid 40's psychic, sits at the table.  A set of Tarot Cards in front of her.
Helen with a big bruise on her forehead sits across from her patiently as Cybelle lays out the cards.
Cybelle looks at the cards intently.
Cybelle
Your reading hasn't changed.
Helen's face drops.
Helen
Are you positive?
CybELLE
The cards confirm it. You will see again, my dear.
HeLEN
(about the bruise))
But when? Look at me! I can't continue living like this. I won't survive myself.
CyBELLE
You know the cards don't tell time. It can be at any time but ...
HELEN
But what?
Cybelle
You will need to fight for it.
HelEN
Fight? How?
CybELLE
The tarot says that you should accept and get used to your condition. Learn your surroundings. It will only benefit you. Make the most out of this moment--
Cybelle stands up.  She shivers.
CyBELLE (CONT'D)
--I must go, my dear.
HeLEN
Please stay, Cybelle.  I don't-- no one visits me out here.  Have some tea.
Cybelle hugs Helen.
CyBELLE
I'd love to-- but the energy in here--
HelEN
It's bad, isn't it?
CybELLE
There's a dark presence.
HelEN
I know.  I've always hated this place.  It's been in my husband's family for years.  We just needed a place to get away.  I just couldn't deal with--
CyBELLE
--I know, dear.
Helen holds back her tears.
HeLEN
Even people I thought were friends-
CyBELLE
It wasn't all your fault.
HeLEN
That's not how I feel.
Cybelle hugs Helen again.
CyBELLE
Soon you will see better than before.  I know it.
She squeezes Helen tight.
CyBELLE (CONT'D)
Until then-- you must live as if you won't.
Cybelle head out leaving Helen thoughtful.
HELEN
(reaching out)
Rosa!
ROSA
(comes running)
Yes Miss Helen.
HELEN
Can you call your legless cousin?
CUT TO:
Int. kitchen - a few days later - day
Helen sits at the table.  Rosa guides Helen around the room as she marks it.
RoSA
This is what therapist said to do.  Mark the room.
Rosa points out the landmarks in the kitchen.
Int. living ROOM - dAY
Helen sits at the computer, learning to use the voice-activated features.
Int. spiral StaIRWAY - dAY
Rosa stands at the bottom of the spiral stairway, as she encourages Helen to walk down the stairs holding the rail. As she goes, she feels the steps details with her feet and the vent at the end of it on the floor.
Int. BEDROOM - dAY
Helen is trying to learn to read Braille.
Int. BaTHROOM - dAY
Rosa is showing Helen where to find her items and where they will be laid out.
She shows Helen where the bath tub is located and how to turn it on.
Ext. tiki patio- dAY
Helen practices walking with her cane.  Trying to walk without bumping into the obstacles Rosa placed it there.
Int. BEDROOM - a few weeks later - day
Helen is getting dressed in the morning.  She is buttoning up her shirt.  She doesn't miss a button.  Her hair is pulled back, tight.  She is no longer wearing any flashy jewels or frilly outfits.  She looks sleek, put together.  
Int. Kitchen - day
Helen relaxes with some tea and listens to an uplifting Brazilian music.
She HEARS the door BELL.
HeLEN
Rosa!  Will you get that?
The bell rings.
Helen gets up. 
Goes all the way downstairs with her cane. The bell rings again.
She makes her way to the door and opens it.
INT. mid-stairs ROOM - SAME
The door slowly OPENS AJAR.
Lila, the neighbor, is standing outside.  She is all made up.  Dressed to kill with accessories and jewelry.  She is in stark contrast to the more refined and simple dress of Helen.
LiLA
Oh, I thought--
HeLEN
You must be Lila.
LILA
Yes. 
HelEN
Arthur mentioned we had a neighbor.
LiLA
He didn't mention you.  Don't know why.  You're beautiful.
HelEN
Must've forgotten the seven years of marriage.
Lila chuckles.
SFX - A DOOR SLAMS CLOSE.
INT./EXT. HOUSE - SAME
Helen turns startled. 
Lila
What was that?
HELEN
I don't know. Must've been Rosa.
LiLA
Oh ... As I was saying ... you know men.  All pigs when it comes to things like that.  That's why us women have to stick together.
HelEN
Sure.
LiLA
Darling, I hate to be a bother, but have you seen LUVY?  I can't find her anywhere.  She's such a bad dog.
HeLEN
I haven't seen your dog.  I can't see much of anything (shows the cane.)
Lila recoils, realizing her faux pas.
LiLA
Oh, I'm sorry-- I didn't mean--
HelEN
It's okay.  Just a figure of speech.  But I haven't heard her either.
LiLA
She's really the only thing I have in my life.  That I can count on.  I mean, I go on dates, believe me.  The latest-- Bernardo.  What a piece of work.  Takes me to Paris one weekend.  The next, he stands me up for dinner.  Of course, he eventually sends flowers.  But really!  Who I am to take such behavior?  I think he's seeing someone else, too.  I mean, it's not like I asked him to be exclusive, but still-- he should be honest.  None of them are honest.  Am I right?  They all have their deep dark secrets.
HelEN
I suppose.
Lila touches her arm lightly.
LiLA
Well-- I've carried on too much.  If you see, Luvy, do be a dear and let me know.
HelEN
Of course.
LILA
Little devil.  Worrying me to pieces.
HelEN
I'm sure she'll come back.
Lila heads off.
Helen closes the door and instinctively look up the stairs baffled with the slammed door.
Int. LivING ROOM - earLY EVENING
Helen trying to figure out some type of WATCH DEVICE.  She fumbles for the buttons.
A voice announces the time...
Computer voice (V.O.)
The time is Six twenty-three.
She presses the button again.
COMPUTER VOICE (V.O.)
Six twenty-four.
Helen turns.  She can sense Arthur behind her.  Home from work, wearing his suit and holding his briefcase.
ARTHUR (o.S.)
What's that?
HelEN
Talking watch.  You can program it, and it'll tell you the time.
ArTHUR
That's great.
HelEN
Hard to know what time it is when it's always dark.
Arthur sets down his briefcase.  He hugs Helen.
ArTHUR
Can't be that dark with your natural glow.
Helen puts her arms around him.
She feels something in his coat pocket.  She pulls it out.  It is a teddy bear.
HeLEN
What's this?
Arthur clears his throat.  A little uncomfortable.
ArTHUR
It's a bear.
Helen hugs it.
HelEN
You brought me a bear?
ArTHUR
Supposed to be a surprise.
Helen hugs Arthur again.
HelEN
So sweet honey.
ArTHUR
That's me.
Helen kisses him passionately.
Arthur kisses her back.
Int. BeDROOM - niGHT
Helen is wearing the pink nightgown and her robe.  She is brushing her hair.
Arthur is lying on the bed, reading the newspaper.
ArTHUR
Are you coming?
HELEN
Be there in a minute.
Helen hears a RUSTLING NOISE.
HELEN (CONT'D)
Luvy!
ArTHUR
Huh?
HeLEN
Lila's dog!
ArTHUR
What are you talking about?
Helen gets up.
HelEN
Come on-- help me.  She lost her dog.  I think I hear it.
Arthur drags himself out of bed.
A SCURRYING NOISE is heard.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
See!
Helen pulls Arthur's hand.
HELEN (CONT'D)
Let's go.
Arthur leads her down the spiral staircase as they chase the noises.
They continue to follow the scampering noise down to the floor below through the stairs ...
HeLEN (CONT'D)
Luvy!
... into the guest bedroom.
Helen gets down on her knees and crawls along towards the sofa.  She pulls Arthur down to the floor.
ARTHUR
What are you--
HelEN
Shh!
They crawl along the floor.
Helen listens intently as she crawls ahead.  She can hear a light scratching.  Then it stops.
She moves around the corner.  She whispers quietly.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
Here, Luvy--
She crawls a few more feet.
HelEN (CONT'D)
Here, baby--
A small dog, scampers into her arms.  The dog is holding something in its mouth.
Helen cuddles the dog.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
There you are.  
Arthur heads around the corner.  He stares at Helen and the dog.
ArTHUR
Jeez--
Helen pets the dog.
HelEN
How'd you get in here?  Silly girl.
ArTHUR
How'd you know--
HelEN
I told you I heard something.
ArTHUR
Must've left the door open.
Helen takes the item from the dog's mouth.  It is a doll.
HeLEN
What's this?
She feels it and sniffs it.
ArTHUR
Looks like a dog toy.
HelEN
Feels like-- a doll.
ArTHUR
Lila's a strange bird.  So-- she came by the house?
HelEN
Yes.  She seems to like you a lot.
Arthur takes a breath.
ArTHUR
She's just-- lived here a long time.  I've seen her around.  When I used to stop by.  Take care of the property.
HelEN
Uh- huh.
Helen pets the dog.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
Mommy's very worried about you.
She hands the dog to Arthur.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
You better get her home.
Helen hands him the doll.
HelEN (CONT'D)
And don't forget the doll.
Arthur nods, and takes it.
Int. BeDROOM - nigHT
Helen curls up in her bed.  She is holding the teddy bear.  She gives it a squeeze and sets it on her night table.
She turns to Arthur who is lying in bed.
HELEN
I like the bear.
She kisses him.  He seems preoccupied.
ArTHUR
Did you and Lila have a nice talk?
HeLEN
Let's not talk about her.
He kisses her back.
ArTHUR
Yeah.  Let's not.
He moves closer to Helen, as he turns off the light.
Ext. Mountain trail - day
Bright sunlight streams over the mountain as Helen hikes along with the group of girls.  They travel up the mountain trail.
One of the GIRLS grabs Helen's hand.
She pulls her off the trail to show her something.
They walk off a bit from the group.  The girl is happy, smiling as she picks flowers.  She points across the mountain to show Helen the view.
Helen seems happy, at peace, being with the girl.
Suddenly, the girl slips.
Helen reaches for her.  The girl reaches up.
Helen's high heel is stuck in the dirt.  She can't move fast enough.
She jumps out of her heels to reach the girl, she grabs her wrist.  But her grip is weak. 
The girl is pulling Helen down and she tries to pull the girl up, but is not able to.  She cannot hold onto the girl and hold herself at the same time. She will fall with her. The girl stares at Helen desperate for her life and grabs at a bracelet on Helen's arm.
SCHOOL GIRL
Pull me up! Don't let me fall!
She clutches the bracelet.  But it breaks.  The girl is suddenly gone.
A look of horror washes over Helen's face.
She looks over the mountain.
Cut TO:
Ext. OVER THE EDGE OF THE MOUNTAIN - saME
A CLOSE UP OF THE GIRL'S BLOODY FACE.  HER HEAD SMASHED ON A ROCK.
BACK TO HELEN
As she SCREAMS!
CUT TO:
Int. Bedroom - nIGHT
Helen awakens screaming.
Arthur jumps up.  Turning on the light.
ArTHUR
What is it?!!
Helen flails around wildly, as Arthur tries to calm her.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
It's ok.  
He holds Helen tight.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
Just a bad dream.
Helen catches her breath.
She sits up.  Trying to get her bearings.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
I'm here.
HelEN
How could I let it happen?
Arthur hugs her.
Helen is still panting.
ArTHUR
She shouldn't have been wandering off.  
She gets out of bed.
HeLEN
I need some water.
ArTHUR
I'll get it for you.
HeLEN
No.  I have to learn to do things for myself.  
ArTHUR
You're upset.
HeLEN
I can do it.
Helen steps toward the door.
Int. KiTCHEN - nIGHT
Helen stands over the sink.  Drinking a glass of water.
As she drinks, she slowly feels a presence over her shoulder.
HeLEN
Arthur- I said I could do it myself.
She turns around.  But Arthur is not there.
In the window behind her-- a little girl's face is visible.  It is somewhat obscured, but it could be the face of the school girl who fell off the mountain.
She steps slowly.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
Who's there?
She moves toward the door to the balcony.
Leaving the refrigerator open as she walks forward.
She slips outside.  The window blowing her nightgown.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
Is anyone out here?
There is no one on the balcony. Just the breeze blowing in the night. 
She starts to walk back inside when she hears foot steps. 
HELEN (CONT'D)
Arthur?
No answer.
Very slowly Helen goes back towards the back of the house.
The foot steps intensifies down the outside wooden stair case.
Hypnotized by the sound, Helen walks faster up to the very edge of the balcony and before she sits her foot on the first step down ...
... an ARM reaches out to grab her.
Helen SCREAMS!
ArTHUR (o.S.)
Easy.
Arthur wraps his arms around Helen.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
What are you doing?
HeLEN
I heard something.
ArTHUR
Again? Let's go back to bed.  
HELEN
But I did--
ArTHUR
--Stop.  It's enough.  I took the dog home.  There's nothing out here. You could really hurt yourself this time.
Helen stands silent.
HelEN
You don't believe me.
ArTHUR
I think-- you're getting yourself worked up over nothing.  You have to let go. It was an accident.
He takes her hand.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
You have to let it go.
REVERSE ANGLE - Someone watches from the bottom of the stairs as they go back inside.  

Int. Bedroom - mORNING
The sunlight streams through the window.  Arthur is getting ready for work.
Helen is still in bed.  Sleeping.
He kisses her head, and heads toward the door.  Helen wakes up.
ArTHUR
I left you some extra money.  Get a massage or something.  Or go on a picnic.  You need to relax.
He kisses her again.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
I'll see you later.
Helen leans over to the bedside table, to where she placed the teddy bear.  She reaches around on the table for the bear.
It is not there.
Helen is puzzled.  
Ext. tiki patio - day
Helen lays on a lounge chair. She wears sunglasses and sips an exotic drink. 
Rosa is behind the tiki bar making the final tidbits' arrangements.
HeLEN
This was Arthur's idea.
ROSA
Yes, Miss.  You and Mr. Arthur have nice property.
HelEN
As long as I'm out here, tell me what I'm missing.
RoSA
You got trees.  Grass.  Usual things.
HelEN
Describe it.
Rosa is clueless.
RoSA
There's a sun.  Flowers.  We have a food.  All is good.
HeLEN
Tell me about the birds.
RoSA
No birds.  I don't know ... maybe black one over there.  Just a bird.  I bring food.
Rosa brings a plate of food and places it next to Helen. 
ROSA (CONT'D)
I sit. I'm tired.
HeLEN
How long have you known Arthur?
RoSA
I don't know.  He needs something, he call me.
HelEN
Before we moved in, did he call you?
Rosa doesn't answer.
RoSA
Sometimes.
HelEN
Did he come over or just call?
RoSA
Sometimes he come.  Sometimes he call.  
HeLEN
Did he-- ever bring anyone to the house?
RoSA
I don't know, Miss.  I just clean.
HELEN
Did you ever hear noises in the house?
RoSA
Sometimes--
HELEN
What?
RoSA
I can't find things.
HELEN
Do you think the place is haunted?
Rosa shivers.  Doesn't want anymore to do with this conversation.
RoSA
It's late.  We should go back inside.  I have to do laundry.  He like shirts iron.
HeLEN
No.  He likes things how he likes them.
Ext. house - tiki patio stairs - day
Rosa escorts Helen down the tiki patio stairs back to the house.
HELEN
I'll go from here Rosa.
Helen motions towards the outside bedroom stairs and steps on something.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
What's that?
Rosa bends down, picks up a doll.  She hands it to Helen.
She feels it.  Smells it.
HELEN (CONT'D)
Luvy's doll.  What's it doing here?
Rosa shrugs.
HelEN (CONT'D)
Arthur brought it back.  He told me.
RoSA
Maybe he drop it.
Rosa walks toward the house.  Helen follows.
Int. BeDROOM - laTER - early evening
Arthur is getting out of suit after work.  
Helen walks into the room, holding the doll.
HeLEN
Hi, honey.
He turns around and moves to kisses.
ArTHUR
Hey.  You look good.  Did you get out like I told you?
HeLEN
I did.  I found something.
She hands him the doll.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
You told me you returned it to Lila.
ArTHUR
I don't know.  I guess I forgot.  I have a lot of things on my mind.  Patients.  You and what you're going through.
HeLEN
I handed it to you.
ArTHUR
I don't know.  What can I say?
HeLEN
We have to return it.  The dog will just come back for it.
Arthur finishes changing into some sweats and a t-shirt.
ArTHUR
Fine.  I'll take it over later.
HeLEN
No.  Call her and ask her to come over.
Arthur looks at Helen.  She has a serious, determined look on her face.
ArTHUR
Okay.
He picks up the phone and dials with the doll in his hands.
The phone rings a few times.
HELEN
Put it on speaker.
Arthur does it.
The phone continues to RING several more times.
ARTHUR
She's not there.
LILA (V.O.)
Hi there ...
HELEN
Lila!
LILA
... It's me ... but I'm not here yet. You know what to do!
ARTHUR
Guess she's not home. We'll try again later.
Helen is displeased and skeptical.
Int. BeDROOM - nIGHT
Arthur is already sleeping in bed.  Helen reaches for the doll which is sitting on her night table.
She holds it for a minute and then sets it back on the table.
She turns and goes to sleep.
ext. House - night 
The wind blows the branches against the house.  The night sky seems eerie and strange.
Int. BeDROOM - niGHT
A shadowy figure of a SMALL GIRL, maybe 10 or 11 years old, creeps across the bedroom past the sleeping Arthur and Helen.
She picks up the doll off the night table.
She hugs it and then creeps out of the room.
HELEN
Stirs with the sound of footsteps.
She can feel Arthur next to her.  But she still hears the footsteps.  She feels the bedside table.  The doll is not there.
She gets out of bed.
She moves slowly across the bedroom.  Trying to follow the sound of the footsteps.
Int. hallway - nIGHT
Helen feels her way down the hall.  Walking after the footsteps she hears.
Suddenly, the footsteps stop.
Helen stops in her tracks.
She can feel the presence of another person.
The small girl stands at the end of the hallway.  Holding the doll in her hand.
GIRL
It's my doll.
Helen bursts into a scream.  The girl runs off.
Helen falls to her knees screaming.
ANGLE ON ARTHUR
As he rushes into the hall.
ArTHUR
What?  What is it?
Helen is barely coherent.
HELEN
The girl!  She was here!
Arthur comforts her.
ArTHUR
It was just another dream.
HeLEN
No.  I was up!  I was out of bed!
ArTHUR
You were sleepwalking.
Helen clutches her head.
HeLEN
It was real!  It happened. I swear.
Arthur pulls her up.
ArTHUR
You gotta stop this Helen.  You are going insane and you're driving me crazy!
Helen sobs.  Out of control she flails at him.
HeLEN
Why don't you believe me?
ArTHUR
You're upset.  You have to calm down.  I'll get you something.
HelEN
I don't want anything.
Arthur drags her back to the bedroom.
He sits her on the bed.
ArTHUR
Sit.  Wait.
Arthur disappears into the bathroom.
HelEN
It was her.  I know it.  She won't let me be free.
Arthur comes back with a glass of water and a pill.
He opens her hand.
ArTHUR
Put it in your mouth and swallow.
Helen shakes her head.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
Do it.  Or I'll do it for you.
Helen takes the pill in her hand.  She puts it in her mouth.
Arthur hands her the glass of water.
She drinks it down.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
Good girl.  Now lie down.
HelEN
It happened.
ArTHUR
I know.  Lie down.
Helen lies down.
He caresses her forehead with the back of his hand.
HeLEN
When will it stop?
ArTHUR
When you forgive yourself.
HeLEN
How can I?  I was such an idiot.  Playing den mother to a bunch of girls when I don't know the first thing about caring for someone else.  Everybody always doing everything for me. 
ArTHUR
You were trying to give back.
HelEN
I was playing with dolls.
Helen sits up.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
The doll!
ArTHUR
What?
HeLEN
She took the doll.
ArTHUR
Lie back.
HeLEN
I swear! It was here. I have to see-
Arthur gently pushes her back down.  She is starting to feel the effects of the drug.
ArTHUR
Go to sleep.  You'll feel better in the morning.
Helen is heavy under the influence now.  She can't keep her eyes awake.  She succumbs to the drug.
Arthur rubs his hand over her head.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
That's a good girl.
He kisses her gently.
Int. kiTCHEN - mORNING
Rosa is cleaning up in the kitchen.
Helen wanders in, wearing her robe.  Still somewhat groggy.
RoSA
You sleep late.  Mr. Arthur left.
Helen feels her way around the table, and sits down in her chair.
HeLEN
Did he say anything?
RoSA
Told me he wanted balcony wash.
HeLEN
No.  I mean, about last night.
RoSA
No Miss.
Rosa hands her a bouquet of flowers.
RoSA (CONT'D)
These came for you.
Helen smells the flowers.
HeLEN
Is there a card?
Rosa looks for a card.  She finds it and opens it.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
What does it say?
RoSA
My English not so good reading.  Talking yes.  Reading no.
She tries to read it.
RoSA (CONT'D)
Forgive me.  Forgive yourself.
She hands the card to Helen, who holds it.  Tight.
HeLEN
I think it's been too much for him too. Do you think?
RoSA
I don't know, Miss.   If you do something to make him sad-- You make him nice dinner.  He forget about everything.
Helen nods.
HeLEN
Let's do it.
Int. DiniNG ROOM - day
Rosa is setting the table.  Putting on a nice table cloth and fine China dishes.
She puts Helen's flowers in a vase in the center of the table.
Helen walks into the room
HeLEN
We need some wine.
RoSA
Mr. Arthur has wine.
HeLEN
Where is it?
RoSA
The wine cellar.
HeLEN
He uses that?  I thought it was just storage.
RoSA
When boxes come, I just put them outside the door.  Likes to put wine away himself.
HeLEN
Good.  Come help me see what he has in there.  You take me down there.
Rosa looks at Helen for a moment and then takes her arm.
Int. Hall outside wine cellar - dAY
Helen and Rosa stand outside the cellar door.
HeLEN
Is this it?
RoSA
Yes, Miss.
HELEN
Well, open the door.
RoSA
You go in, Miss.  He told me not to go.  I don't want to do something--
HeLEN
Fine.  I get it.  I'll be the bad girl.
Rosa opens the door for her and guides her to the cellar.
Int. Wine cellar - dAY
Helen feels her way along the cellar.  She can feel boxes stacked up.  She runs her fingers along the bottles.  Trying to sense which one might be good for the occasion.
She moves deeper into the cellar.
She steps on something that feels strange.
She bends down to investigate.
We PULL BACK to reveal blankets and pillows arranged on the floor.  
Helen feels around on the ground.  A puzzled look on her face.
Then, she stumbles upon something.  Her hand freezes.
She slowly picks up the object.
It is the doll.
She brings it to her face.  Smelling it.
She drops the doll in horror and stands up.  She feels along the wall.  Panicked.  Trying to get out of the cellar.
HeLEN
Rosa!
She makes her way to the door.  Rosa pulls her out.
RoSA
What is it, Miss?  What?
Helen tries to pull herself together.
HeLEN
Nothing.  Just got-- scared.
RoSA
Did you find wine?
HeLEN
I don't know.  We don't need it.  Forget it.   Take me upstairs.
Rosa escorts her off.
Int. living room - latER
Helen holds her cell phone.
She presses speed dial.
Secretary (v.O.)
Dr. Botolf's office.
Helen hangs up the phone.
She puts the phone down on the table.
Int. DiNING ROOM - eVENING
Helen sits across from Arthur at the elegantly set table.  They dine quietly.  An uneasy silence between them.
ArTHUR
This is really nice.
HelEN
Thanks.
Another awkward moment of silence.
ArTHUR
We should have some wine.
Helen drops her fork abruptly.
HelEN
No-- it's--
Arthur stands up.
Arthur
It's not a bother.  I have some in the cellar.
HeLEN
Really.  I'm not--
ArTHUR
Are you sure?
HeLEN
Yes.  I don't--
Arthur sits back down.
ARTHUR
I just thought...
Arthur resumes eating.
Helen is not eating.
HeLEN
Do you still love me?
ArTHUR
What kind of silly question is that?
HeLEN
Do you stay with me at night?
Arthur puts down his fork.
ArTHUR
What are you talking about?
HeLEN
Are you sleeping in the cellar?
ArTHUR
What?
HeLEN
I found pillows, blankets.
ARTHUR
This is absurd.
HeLEN
Then what is going on?  Why is that stuff down there?
Arthur pauses a moment.
ArTHUR
I don't know.  The house wasn't lived in for a long time.  Maybe a someone came in-- a squatter-- 
HeLEN
--But you've been in the cellar?  You've put away wine.  Haven't you noticed?
Arthur stares across the table.
ArTHUR
Maybe I stored them there and forgot.  What's the difference?
He gets up from the table.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
I thought you were moving on.  I thought that's what this dinner was about.
HeLEN
It was.  But something's not right.
Arthur tosses his napkin on the table.
ArTHUR
You're not right Helen. I had enough!
He leaves the table.  
Int. Bedroom - nIGHT
Arthur is fast asleep in bed.
Helen is wide awake.
She gets out of bed and moves slowly to the spiral stairs.
She uses the rail to help her down the steps.
Int. HallWAY - nIGHT
Helen makes her way down the hallway.  Her hands touching the walls to guide her.
Int. Stairway - niGHT
Helen eases her way down the second staircase.  Drifting carefully past each step towards the second stairway.
Int. hALL OUTSIDE WINE CELLAR - niGHT
Helen stands nervously.  Hesitant to go in the cellar.
She overhears some NOISES as she moves closer to the door.
Helen moves toward the door.  Quietly.  
She cracks the door open.
She listens to the noises coming from inside.
It sounds like a young girl's voice...
GiRL (o.S.)
... And you sit there.  And you there.  Good.  Now wait.  Everybody will get a turn...
Helen opens the door a bit wider to hear better.
GIRL (o.S.) (CONT'D)
The tea is almost ready.  Who is being good?
Helen opens the door further, and steps partially into the cellar.
Stacks of boxes are piled everywhere in the darkness.  A bit of light is visible in the back of the cellar.
Helen feels around as to what is in front of her, and she can touch the boxes.  She only takes a step or two, but her path is blocked.  She stops her movement, as she hears the girl again...
GIRL (o.S.) (CONT'D)
You're being very good.  Sitting straight and quiet.  You can have your tea.  Careful it might be hot.
Helen takes another step and tries to sense what is happening.  She moves a box slightly, and we can see a strange site in this dim cellar.
A YOUNG GIRL, about 10 or 11, is sitting among the pillows and blankets wearing a familiar scarf.  She reminds us of the school girl we have seen earlier, and the girl from Helen's encounters.  
She is having a tea party with a mismatched set of plates and cups.  A few crackers and cookies are laid out on the plates.
A few toys are laid out in a circle.  A toy duck, a little Barbie-type girl, a frog-- and--
Sitting politely with a cup and plate in front of her is the doll that Helen found earlier.
The girl picks up the doll.
GiRL (CONT'D)
Dolly, I have a special something for you.  It's a surprise.  
The girl pulls out Helen's teddy bear from behind a pillow, dramatically.
GirL (CONT'D)
Introducing-- Teddy, the bear!
She waves the bear in the air, excited.
GirL (CONT'D)
Doctor brought us a new friend.
Helen gasps at what she has just heard.
GiRL (CONT'D)
He's so good when he tries.  Teddy meet Dolly.  
The girl does the doll's voice...
GIRL (CONT'D)
How do you do, Mr. Bear?
Now the girl does the bear's voice...
GirL (CONT'D)
Very well, thank you.  Please call me, Teddy.
The girl squeals with excitement.
GiRL (CONT'D)
He's a pretty cool bear, right Dolly?
GirL (CONT'D)
(in the doll's voice)
Oh yes.  I love Teddy Bears! I started to worry when he brought that woman here Agnes!
Helen is transfixed by what she hears.  She is totally in awe by what is transpiring.  
AGNES
Oh ... you don't need to worry. Doctor said that she means nothing to him. Beside, she is blind, useless and going kookoo, he said. 
AGNES (CONT'D)
(in bear's voice)
What if she stays?
Agnes stops for a moment. Changes her demeanor. 
AGNES (CONT'D)
Then I'll take care of her. Let's stop this boring conversation. Doctor is going to bring us something else!  Something really special for our tea parties.
She holds up the doll and the bear and waves them around, as if they are jumping with excitement.
Makes them talk.
GiRL
What is it?! What is it?!
Agnes looks intently at the doll and the bear.  Hardly containing her excitement and glee. 
GiRL (CONT'D)
A real bell!  To call for tea.
She makes the doll and bear jump for joy.
GiRL (CONT'D)
Hoooray!!!
Helen is confounded by what is going on.
GiRL (CONT'D)
Let's cheer for the Doctor!  Hip, hip, hooray!!  Hip, hip--
Helen covers her mouth, horrified and stunned.  She stifles a scream, and slips out of the cellar.
Int. StaIRWAY - nIGHT
Helen stumbles and crawls her way up the stairway.  Tears streaming down her face.  Breathing heavily.  She mumbles to herself.  Half-crying, half-babbling.
Int. KiTCHEN - niGHT
She crawls across the floor, feeling her way.  In a panicked frenzy.  She pulls herself up to the counter and feels along the tiles to the sink.
She flips on the water and splashes handfuls into her face.  As if trying to wake herself up from a terrible dream.
Suddenly, a light comes on.
Helen, of course, doesn't notice.
ARTHUR
Stands watching her a moment.
ARTHUR
Everything okay?
Helen freezes.  She pulls her head out of the sink and tries to locate him.
He moves away from where he was standing.
Helen has to whirl around to find him.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
What's the matter?
Helen catches her breath.
HeLEN
Just-- thirsty.
Arthur moves to her side and hugs her.
ArTHUR
You are not looking good Helen. We're going to have to do something about these nightmares. 
Helen nods.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
Have to put an end to them.
HeLEN
They-- have to stop.
Arthur kisses her.  More passionately, than comforting.
ArTHUR
Let's get back to bed.
Helen hesitates.  Unsure of her feelings.
HeLEN
I- I'm going to take a bath.
Arthur looks at her.  Perturbed.
ARTHUR
Do you really--
HeLEN
I-- Yes, I need to relax.
Arthur shakes his head.
ArTHUR
Whatever you need.
He walks toward the bedroom.  
Int. BathrOOM - nIGHT
Helen locks the bathroom door.  She sits down on the floor.  Letting out a sigh of relief.
A KNOCK is heard on the door.
ArTHUR (o.S.)
You need some help in there?
Helen jumps, nervous.
HELEN
I'm fine.
ArTHUR (o.S.)
You want me to turn on the water?
Helen shakes her head.
HeLEN
No.  Thanks.  No.
Helen crawls across the floor.
She tries to find the faucet on the bath.
Reaching around.  She touches the tub and searches for the faucets.
She finds the faucet and turns on the water.
The tub starts filling up with water.
arTHUR (o.S.)
Let me help you.
HeLEN
It's okay.
He KNOCKS at the door.
ARTHUR (o.S.)
You sure?
Helen steadies herself.
HELEN
I'm going to be awhile.  Don't worry about me.  Get some sleep.
She turns off the water, and curls up on the floor.
EXT. HOUSE - MORNING
Arthur walks out of the house to his car.
Int. BeDROOM - same
FROM THE WINDOW
Helen "watches" and hears Arthur climb into his car.  Start it up.  And drive off.
She presses her watch.
Computer voice (V.O.)
The time is Nine thirty-seven.
Helen calls out.
HeLEN
Rosa!
There is no answer.
She fumbles around for her cell phone and hits speed dial.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
Rosa?  Where are you?
Helen sits at the table, as she talks into the phone.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
Why aren't you here?  He told you I didn't need you today?  It's not true.  I need you.  Can you-- get a bus-- fine, forget it. Come tomorrow--
Helen puts down the phone.  Scared.  Nervous.
She dials the phone again.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
Cybelle?  Something's going on--
Int. Cybelle's house - dAY
Cybelle is sitting at her table with her tarot cards.
CyBELLE
Yes, my dear.  I see it.  A darkness.
INTERCUT:
HELEN
Where?  What?  I need more.  Can you read me over the phone?
CyBELLE
Sing to me.  I must feel your spirit.
HeLEN
Sing? You're kidding right? Please, I just want to know if I'm going crazy or not? Is this real?
Cybelle closes her eyes.
She flips over the cards in a specific sequence.
She opens her eyes.
CyBELLE
You must embrace it.
HeLEN
What does that mean?
CyBELLE
I can just tell you what it says.  You must find the meaning.
HeLEN
Embrace what?
CyBELLE
It just says, it will end with an embrace.
HeLEN
I have to love him.  Believe him  That's what it means? 
CyBELLE
You have to find it for yourself, my dear.  You know that.  Don't jump to conclusions.  Let the answer come to you.
HeLEN
Or perhaps I must seek it out.
CyBELLE
At the moment of truth, you will know what you must do.
HELEN
Thanks.
Helen hangs up the phone.
Int. StaIRWAY - dAY
Helen slowly walks down the stairs.
Each step.  Painful and dark.
A sense of doom building with each move downward.
Ext. HALL OUTSIDE WINE CELLAR - dAY
Helen stands outside the cellar.
She takes a breath.
She reaches for the door.  
She stops, hesitant.  Scared.
She drops her hand.
Takes another breath.
She reaches for the door.  Pushes to open it.
The door won't open.  It is locked.
A NOISE IS HEARD.  A DOOR OPENING.  KEYS JANGLING.
Helen freezes.  Terrified.
ArTHUR (o.S.)
Helen!
She scrambles to find the stair railing.
She maneuvers up the steps.
Int. Foyer - dAY
Arthur sets a box down on the entry table.
Helen walks up toward Arthur.
ArTHUR
What are you doing downstairs?
HeLEN
What are you doing home?
ArTHUR
Came home early.  Wanted to spend some time with you.
HeLEN
I see.  Well, actually-- I don't.  
Arthur stands, not knowing how to take the comment.
HELEN (CONT'D)
That's a joke.
Arthur smiles.  Uneasy.
ArTHUR
Funny.  I'm going to change clothes, and then we'll sit.
HeLEN
Sit?
ARTHUR
Talk.
HeLEN
Talk?
ArTHUR
We don't do that enough.  Come on.
He smiles.  A little strange. 
HELEN
I'll be right there.
Arthur disappears up the stairway.
Helen feels about for her cane.
She knocks the package off the table.
It falls on the floor.
Landing with a THUD.
She is startled.
She feels around.  Trying to figure out what she knocked down.
She feels its dimensions.  Worried as to what it is.
ArTHUR (o.S.)
(coming down the stairs)
Did you fall?
HELEN
No-- I--
ARTHUR
What are you doing?
HELEN
Uh-- I just--
Arthur takes the package from her.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
What's this?
ArTHUR
Nothing.
He helps her up.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
C'mon-- we've had such a time.  I know it's been hard.  I want to make it up to you.
HELEN
Really, I'm fine.
ArTHUR
I'm taking you out.  Get dressed.
HeLEN
I'm not sure, I'm up to it.
ArTHUR
It'll be fun.  I'm going to take a shower.  You get yourself all prettied up.
Arthur hands back up the stairs.  He takes the package with him.
Int. BeDROOM - latE aFTERNOON
We can HEAR the SHOWER running.
Helen is in front of her closet.  Picking out some clothes.
She stops and moves toward Arthur's dresser.  The package is sitting on top.  She feels around where she knows he puts his stuff.
She grips the package.
Taking a nail file from her make-up table, she opens the package.
She feels inside.  She pulls out a stack of promotional packages from a drug company.
Helen quickly stuffs them back in the box.
She puts the box back on the dresser.
ARTHUR
Walks into the room.
ARTHUR
Aren't you getting ready?
HeLEN
Yes.  I am.
Arthur walks to his dresser, as Helen moves to her closet room.  Arthur opens the box.  He looks inside, and takes out one of the packets.
Cut TO:
Int. bathroom / closet - lATER
Helen is trying on a dress.  Deciding if it feels good on her.
She suddenly gets a strange feeling.  As if she is being watched.  She turns.
Suddenly-- a LAMP comes flying by her.  It smashes against the wall.
Helen screams.
She stands frozen.
Arthur dashes into the dressing room.
ARTHUR
What happened?
HeLEN
I-- I don--
He spots the broken lamp.
ArTHUR
You don't have to be embarrassed.
HeLEN
But--
ARTHUR
Things break.  It's okay.
HeLEN
I didn't break it.
ARTHUR
So, it got knocked over.  It's fine.  We'll clean it up later.
Arthur notices the dress.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
You look amazing.
He touches her cheek.
HeLEN
You would never keep anything from me, would you?
ArTHUR
Let's go.
HELEN
I don't feel like going anywhere. Can't you call for delivery?
ARTHUR
It will do you good. You've been too much inside.
HELEN
Please ...
Helen stares at the blurred shape of Arthur with a pleading look in her eyes.
Cut TO:
Int. living room - early EVENING
Arthur and Helen sit close on the couch.  Holding wine glasses.  Talking intimately.  A half-empty bottle of wine at the table along with delivered food dishes.
Arthur pours some more wine into their glasses.
He raises his glass in a toast.  He takes her hand and lifts her glass as well. 
He kisses her hand tenderly.
He touches her glass.
Cut TO:
Int. living room - later 
Arthur is laughing.  Helen is giggling as well.  They seem drunk.  Silly. 
They kiss.
Arthur turns on a romantic music and drags Helen for a dance.
They dance softly in a circle.
As they move, the SOUND of A GLASS SHATTERING on the kitchen floor is heard.
Helen stop dancing and looks around shocked.
HeLEN
What was that?
ArTHUR
(absorbed)
Must be some animal outside.
HeLEN
Something broke.
ArTHUR
Yeah ... Something broke.  It's nothing.
He takes her hand.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
Let's go upstairs.
Arthur pulls her up the stairs.
Cut TO:
Int. BeDROOM - nIGHT
They are kissing on the bed.  Still in their clothes.
ArTHUR
Would you put that outfit on?  For me.
Helen nods.
Helen moves off and heads to her dressing room.
Arthur gets up and sets out wine glasses.  He pours two glasses of wine.
He pulls the packet of drugs from his pocket and breaks up some of the drugs into one of the glasses. 
He takes another packet of drugs from his box and slips it into his pocket.
Cut TO:
Int. bathroom / closet - nIGHT
Helen is slipping into her pink nightgown.
She HEARS a strange SCRATCHING NOISE.
She stops.  Frozen.  Trying to hear where it is coming from.
She moves into the closet.  Following the noise.
She gets down on the floor.
Crawling through the closet.  Moving to Arthur's side of the closet.
ARTHUR (o.S.)
Where are you?
HeLEN
Coming.
Helen creeps along.  Listening for the sound.
The sound has stopped.
Helen crawls over something wrapped in tissue paper.
She picks it up.
Out falls a silver dinner bell.
It RINGS.
Helen's mouth drops.  Wide open.  She scrambles to cover up the sound.
ArTHUR (o.S.)
Come on, already!  I'm waiting.
She fumbles with the bell as she tries to wrap it up.  She stuffs it inside a shoe on the floor.
ARTHUR pokes his head into the closet.
ARTHUR (CONT'D)
What are you doing?
Helen gets up.
HELEN
I fell.
He picks her up.
He pulls her out of the closet.
He sits on the bathtub and sits her on his lap.
He hands her a glass of wine.
ArTHUR
One last toast.
He takes his glass and clinks hers. Arthur's face wears a strange half-smile.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
To a new start.
He drinks his wine.  Helen doesn't drink hers.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
What's wrong?
HELEN
I think I had too much already.
ARTHUR
One more.  It's good for you.
Helen takes a small sip.
ArTHUR (CONT'D)
This wine is good, isn't it?
Helen nods.
Arthur tries to slowly undo the clasp of her dress but Helen is distracted.
She hands the glass back to him.
HeLEN
I have to call Rosa.
ArTHUR
Now?
Arthur face looks confused.
HeLEN
I want to make sure she comes tomorrow.  I missed her today.
Helen stands up. She starts to walk out of the bathroom.
Cut TO:
Int. Bedroom- same
HELEN
Have you seen my phone?
ARTHUR (V.O.)
We don't need to do this now.  We'll call her later.
Helen walks around trying to find her phone.
She starts to get a little dizzy.
HeLEN
I don't feel-- I need to lie down.
Arthur enters the room.
ARTHUR
That's a good idea.  Have a little more wine and go to sleep.
Helen shakes her head.
HeLEN
No.  Just gonna rest--
Helen lies down on the bed.
Arthur covers her with a blanket.
ARTHUR
Get some rest.  I'll be back in a bit.
Arthur leaves the room.
Cut TO:
Int. KiTCHEN - nIGHT
Arthur takes some milk out of the refrigerator.  He pours it in a cup.  
He takes the packet of drugs out of his pocket and breaks them up in the milk.  He stirs the milk up.  
He pulls some cookies out of the cupboard and sets them out on a plate.
He puts the plate of cookies and glass of milk on a tray.
He lifts the tray and heads out of the kitchen.
Cut TO:
Int. BedROOM - night 
Helen's EYES wide open. A scratching sound is coming from the wall. 
She gets out of the bed and goes into the closet. Tries to find the bell. It's not there.
She walks out of the closet. She hears a noise outside.
Cut TO:
Int. bedroom - same
Helen walks slowly towards the window to the balcony. The noise intensifies. 
She hears the BELL ringing softly, and stops by the window.
Cut TO:
Ext. balcony- Same
A small sob followed by an angry, stifled cry. Tears smudge the eyeliner of Agnes; some of the eyeliner rolls down as well; and she is ripping the petals of a flower held in her hand.
AGNES
She remains or I remain.
Agnes rips one petal.
AgNES (CONT'D)
She remains...
Agnes rips another petal.
AGNES (CONT'D)
I remain...
She rips another petal of the flower in her hand.
AGNES (CONT'D)
She remains...
She rips another petal.
AGNES (CONT'D)
I remain...
She rips another petal.
AGNES (CONT'D)
She remains...
She rips the 2nd last petal. One petal remains in the flower.
AGNES (CONT'D)
I remain.
Her face flashes a smile. Next moment it changes to an expression of pain. Agnes is talking to someone, who is not seen in frame. 
Agnes (CONT'D)
I will remain in this house. You promised that you'd get rid of her soon. 
ArTHUR (O.S.)
(muffled voice)
I will. Don't you trust me?
Int. BEDROOM - SAME
Helen's eyes grow wide. She cranes her neck from the bedroom to understand whose is the male voice.
Ext. Balcony - same
The camera dollies and now we see the man. It is Arthur. Arthur strokes the little girl's head and hands her a cookie. The girl begins to sob again.
ArtHUR
Hush, hush. Eat it and drink some milk. 
Agnes takes a sip of the milk and pushes the glass away. Arthur's face tightens.
ARTHUR (CONT'D)
Do you want to go back to that place? I got you out of there and I can send you back to that hell.
Agnes' face shrinks in fear and she hastily takes the cookie from his hand.
ARTHUR (CONT'D)
You will stop making these noises and appearing in places where you are not required. You will remain in the cellar like a good girl.
Arthur's face is hard and evil as he shoves Agnes' hand with the cookie into her mouth.
Agnes
(chewing on the cookie and half-sobbing)
You love me more than her, don't you? 
Arthur's face softens again.
ARTHUR
Of course I do. I love you the most.
Arthur's fingers run sensually over Agnes' small lips and slide down her neck.
artHUR (CONT'D)
Just be a good girl now and do as I say.
CuT TO:
Int. Bedroom- same
Helen' stares at the window unblinking, her hand clutching at its sides tightly. 
Cut TO:
Ext. Balcony- same
ArthuR
After tonight it'll be just you and me.
Agenes hugs Arthur tightly. 
Agnes
I'm tired of hiding.
Arthur looks at her pleading face thoughtfully.
ARTHUR
Okay, but you must promise to stay quiet. Things will not be the same after tonight.
CUT TO:
INT. BEDROOM- SAME
They both enter the bedroom.
Arthur's face contorts and the girl looks at him wildly.
The bed is empty and Helen is nowhere in sight.
ArthuR
Looks like she heard us! 
Arthur keeps the plate of cookies and milk beside the bed and runs out of the room. Agnes looks at him afraid.
AGNES
Don't leave me.
 Agnes runs behind Arthur trying to keep up.
Cut TO:
Int. Semi-lit corridor- a little later
All darkness. Suddenly Helen darts from darkness into a patch of light and into darkness again. 
Cut TO:
Int. Another corridor- same
Arthur points his finger to Agnes and gestures to go in one direction while he goes in another. He also gestures to her to be quiet.
Cut TO:
Int. Elevator- same
Helen madly runs her hands over the panel of the elevator trying to figure out which button to press. 
ArthUR (V.O.)
(from afar)
Helen, darling, where are you? 
Helen quickly presses a button. Her face has grown white. To her utter disappointment, the elevator does not move.
HELEN
Come on... come on...
Arthur's footsteps draw near. Helen gets restless, turns her head towards the noise of footsteps and then towards the elevator buttons. She keeps pressing all the buttons.
Cut TO:
INT. Corridor- same
Arthur comes running towards the elevator. He presses his face close to the iron gate of the elevator, expecting to discover Helen inside it, but it is empty. 
ArthuR
Shit!
Then he runs up the stairs.
Cut TO:
Int. ELEVATOR- SAME
The elevator floor is empty. But as the camera pans up towards the ceiling of the elevator, we find Helen tightly pressing against the ceiling of the elevator.
Int. cellar- A little later
Agnes is sitting on her make-shift bed hugging herself and crying.
Suddenly she senses a movement on the door and lifts her head up.
Agnes
Doctor?
She waits for a response for two seconds and then stands up suddenly and runs towards the door. 
She begins to yell.
AgneS (CONT'D)
Doctor, she's here! She's here!
Helen quickly moves towards her and clasps her hand over the girl's mouth. 
The girl struggles, using her hands to beat Helen, claw her, scratch her face. 
But Helen doesn't let go.
HeleN
Shh! Shh! I won't hurt you. I have something very important to talk to you.
The girl doesn't relent and continues to kick and scratch.
HeleN (CONT'D)
Please, at least listen to me. The doctor's no good. 
The girl begins to slow down.
HELEN (CONT'D)
I swear to you. He's just cheating us both. 
Agnes stops fighting.
HELEN (CONT'D)
Please, I just want to talk to you. I promise I won't harm you.
The girl lowers her eyes and slowly nods her head.
Helen slowly removes her hand from over the girl's mouth. 
The girl stands still.
HELEN (CONT'D)
Would you believe me if I told you that the doctor once did to me exactly what he's now doing to you?
The girl looks up at her surprised.
HELEN (CONT'D)
When I was about your age, he took me out of a horrible orphanage and took me to his house. He gave me all kinds of nice things to play with and eventually married me. 
Agnes swallows hard.
HELEN (CONT'D)
He was sweet to me at first but now he wants to get rid of me so that he can bring you into his life. He does not love anyone.
Agnes face suddenly contorts in anger.
Agnes
You're a liar! He loves me! 
Agnes claws and hits Helen.  Helen tries to get away from her. 
HELEN
Stop it!
Agnes calms down and begins to cry softly. Helen approaches her tenderly.
HELEN (CONT'D)
It's okay.  Don't be scared.
Silent.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
Has the doctor ever done bad things to you? It's okay you can tell me.
Agnes stares at Helen.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
You have to let me help you.  He's going to hurt you.
Agnes
He will not! He's good!  He brings me presents!  Sometimes he does bad things, but then says sorry and buys presents!
HeLEN
But he's never going to stop doing the bad things!
Agnes
You're a liar.
Agnes moves away from Helen.
Agnes (CONT'D)
I'm prettier than you.  That's why he likes me more.
Helen tries to keep her emotions in check.
Agnes (CONT'D)
He said my kisses are like strawberries. He calls me his Princess.
It is everything Helen can do to keep from bursting into tears.
HELEN
Of course he does.  But I don't think he's good for either one of us now.
Agnes
We don't need you.  We'll get rid of you.
HeLEN
Neither of us can trust him.  Can we?  He lies.
Agnes places her small hands on her hips and stares at Helen's face.
Agnes
No, he doesn't. Not to me!
HeLEN
Did he tell you about me?  That he was married to me?
The girl is silent.
Agnes
No, he's married to me! 
Helen sighs.
HELEN
Agnes, I believe you're twelve. This is your age to be playing with other girls and dolls. Not trying to be married to a grown-up man.
Agnes seems to be lost in thoughts.
AGNES
But I don't have a choice.
She pauses.
Agnes (CONT'D)
He'll send me back to those people who make me work all day and night until I'm so tired that I fall asleep standing.
Helen holds Agnes' small hands in her own.
Helen
I'll help you. You don't have to stay with this monster or go back  to the hell. You can stay with me.
Agnes pulls her hands away. 
AGNES
You can't even help yourself. How will you help me?
Suddenly-- a NOISE is heard upstairs.
HELEN
We need to get out of here.
Helen takes Agnes's limp hand and leads her out of the room.
Cut to:
Arthur is still combing the house searching for Helen. His face has a look of evil as he meticulously goes from room to room. 
Cut to:
Int. bedroom- few minutes later
Helen and Agnes enter the bedroom quietly with the girl leading the way. They head straight for the closet.
Cut to:
Int. Closet- same
Helen and Agnes are crouching inside the closet when they hear the sound of Arthur's feet outside.
Cut to:
Int. Bedroom- same
Arthur walks slowly towards the closet. Something glints in his hand. As he is almost at the door of the closet the doorbell rings below. 
Arthur ignores it the first time and inches closer to the closet. The doorbell rings again several times in a row.
Arthur leaves the room hastily.
Cut TO:
Int. Closet- same
Helen heaves a sigh of relief.
Helen hugs Agnes and kisses her on her forehead. Agnes remains limp and untouched.
Cut TO:
Int. Living room- a few minutes later
Arthur opens the door and finds Lila there. He hastily hides the knife behind his back.
Lila
Hello, doctor! All alone?
Arthur
Uh... no... not really!
LILA
(giggling)
I knew that! I actually came to see Helen. Where's she?
Lila looks around the house craning her neck.
LilA (CONT'D)
It's awfully silent in here. Helen...?
Arthur's face becomes white for an instant. Then he collects himself.
ArTHUR
Uh... Helen's taking a shower. Can I pass on a message?
LILA
(giggles)
Absolutely not! This is all girl talk.
She runs her hand over his shoulder provocatively.
Lila (CONT'D)
So, you are alone then?
Suddenly Agnes appears from behind.
AgneS
I found her!
LILA
Oh! Who's this little girl?
Arthur turns around hastily and Lila spots the knife in his hand.
LILA (CONT'D)
That's a dangerous looking knife. Is she a member of your family? 
ArthuR
(fumbling)
Was just doing something in the kitchen. This... this is my niece. She just arrived today.
LILA
Isn't she pretty!
Agnes stares at Arthur.
AgneS
My name's Agnes. And I'm not his niece. I am his wife.
ArthuR
(angrily)
Shut up Agnes! And go back inside.
Lila looks from Arthur to Agnes in confusion.
Arthur is shifting from foot to foot uncomfortably.
ARTHUR (CONT'D)
Sorry, Lila. Let's talk tomorrow. 
Looks at Agnes sternly and then turns back to Lila.
ARTHUR (CONT'D)
(half-whispering)
She's just a little spoilt imp! Helen and I picked her up from the gutter and gave her shelter here. Don't mind her.
Agnes overhears. Her eyes begin to fill with tears. 
LILA
Okay then! I'll come back later for Helen. In half an hour maybe?
ARTHUR
Uh... I'm not sure tonight's a good idea. She's really tired. Maybe sometime tomorrow.
LILA
(looking from Arthur to Agnes)
Okay. Toodles, handsome! Bye Agnes!
Agnes wips her eyes and just stares at Arthur coldly. He eyeliners are utterly smudged all over her face.
Arthur slams the door on her face.
AGNES
I am not your niece. 
ArthuR
(grinding his teeth)
Stop acting like a child, Agnes. What did you want me to tell her? That you are the woman of my dreams... my wife?
Arthur guffaws at Agnes.
Agnes just stares back at his face.
Arthur (CONT'D)
So where's she? You said you found her, right?
Agnes is still staring at him. She seems to be thinking about something.
ARTHUR (CONT'D)
Agnes! Where is she?
Agnes points up.
Agnes
In your bedroom. I gave her the milk to drink.
Arthur runs up.
Agnes does not follow him.
Cut TO:
Int. bedroom- a few minutes later
Arthur slinks into the bedroom with the knife in hand.
ArthuR
Helen! I know you're in here! Why are you hiding? I am not going to hurt you, silly. 
Arthur suddenly notices a stream of water from the attached bathroom flowing into the bedroom. 
Sound of water is also heard from the adjacent bathroom. 
Arthur seems to have a clue. 
He walks towards the bathroom door stealthily. 
Water flows and soaks Arthur's shoe.
His hand reaches out for the door. Silently but rapidly, he opens it.
Cut TO:
INT. BATHROOM - SAME
The tap is running. 
The bathtub is overflowing. 
There is no one in the bathroom. 
Cut TO:
Int. CLOSET- SAME
Helen is crouched in one corner of the closet.
The glass of milk is empty by her side. 
Her eyes are beginning to become heavy. 
She shudders as she hears Arthur's voice.
Cut TO:
Int. BedROOM- SAME
Arthur walks out of the bathroom and enters the bedroom. 
He walks towards the closet slowly, unsure if Helen is in there. Suddenly a loud noise of utensils falling is heard from the kitchen. 
He moves towards the door of the bedroom, deciding to go to the kitchen.
Cut TO:
Int. ClOSET- SAME
Helen's head begins to fall to one side as she tries to fight the drowsiness. 
Cut TO:
Int. Kitchen - same
Arthur enters the kitchen. 
He looks at the utensils that have fallen on the floor. 
He notices a wicked looking cat on the floor, licking some leftover food, fallen on the floor. 
The cat looks up at Arthur. 
The kitchen window is open; the cat must have entered though the window.
ARTHUR
(to the cat)
Holy shit! But I am not looking for you.
CuT TO:
Int. CloseT- SAME
Helen looks somewhat relieved that Arthur is not in the bedroom anymore. 
Her hand touches the wall and her clock suddenly rings out.
Computer voice (V.O.)
The time is eleven thirty three.
Helen jumps in fright at the sound of her watch and tries to muffle the sound with her hand.
Silence, for a while. 
Only the sound of the clock ticking. 
Nothing happens for a while. Helen holds her breath, literally closing her mouth and nose with her own hand.
Then suddenly the door of the closet opens noisily. Arthur has found her. 
Arthur
The time is eleven thirty three. Ting tong. Helen darling! What're you doing in the closet? I've been looking for you all over!
Helen remains silent and tries to move deeper into the closet.
When she realizes that it's the end of the closet she tries to stand up holding the walls.
She hears Arthur coming towards her through the clothes.
Helen
Don't you dare touch me, Arthur. You're an evil, perverted man who manipulates little girls to fulfil his own sexual perversions. Aren't you ashamed of yourself?
Arthur is slowly moving towards her.
ARTHUR 
Ashamed? Me? Nope? On the contrary, you are the one who should be ashamed. Not only are you responsible for the death of a young girl, you are also blind and worthless to everybody around you.
HELEN
(pleading)
Arthur, she's just a little girl! Leave her alone! Do what you will with me but leave her alone.
ARTHUR
She's just a tramp that I found and saved from a life of drudgery. I gave her life. I can do as I please with her.
HELEN
Like you did with me?
ARTHUR
Yes! Exactly like I did with you. And when the time is right, I'll find a younger, prettier girl to replace her too.
Helen remains silent. Her eyes and head are weary. Her eyes fill with tears. 
She hears Arthur moving towards her and also hears a sound behind Arthur. 
Arthur also hears the sound and turns. 
Agnes is standing behind, holding her teddy bear in her hand. 
Helen uses the opportunity to run out of the closet and into the balcony at that instant.
Cut TO:
Ext. Balcony- same
Arthur follows Helen into the balcony. 
She's at the corner of the balcony. 
Helen's moves to a corner but her dress gets badly caught in the thorns of a plant, and it won't come off easily. 
She struggles to set herself free.
Arthur lunges for her but she rips part of her dress and ducks. 
Just as Arthur reaches Helen, holds her hand and lifts his hand to stab her, Agnes rushes into the balcony with the teddy bear and sets it on fire, using a lighter. She throws the burning teddy at Arthur.
Agnes
(yells)
For all the child's play you have done with me!
The burning teddy comes flying and hits Arthur on his face. He yells and seems to go blind for a second. He covers his face with his hands and a part of his shirt catches fire.
Arthur drops his knife and loses balance. He topples over the balcony, still holding Helen's hand.
Arthur
Helen, save me! Pull me over! I'm your husband.
Agnes stares at Helen wildly wondering what she'll do. 
CuT TO:
Ext. MouNTAIN TRAIL - flashback
The girl is pulling Helen down and she tries to pull the girl up, but is not able to.  She cannot hold onto the girl and hold herself at the same time. She will fall with her. 
The girl stares at Helen desperate for her life and grabs at a bracelet on Helen's arm.
SCHOOL GIRL
Pull me up! Don't let me fall!
She clutches the bracelet.  But it breaks.  The girl is suddenly gone.
Back TO:
Ext. Balcony - saME
Arthur clutches at Helen's arm.  Trying to hold on. His grip slips and he now catches the metal bracelet in Helen's hand. 
ArTHUR
Pull me up!  Don't let me fall!
HeLEN
You are already fallen. I refuse to pull up a fallen man.
Helen's metal bracelet bends and Arthur's hand slowly slips. He falls down the stairs.
His body crashing on the steps below.
Helen looks down below.
Arthur's body lies in a heap at the bottom of the stairwell.
Agnes rushes to Helen's side.
They look down at Arthur's body on the ground.
He is not breathing. His eyes are open; his expression that of disbelief.
Thick, blackish blood flows out from his head and starts spreading around.
Both Helen and Agnes crying.
Agnes hugs her tightly.
Agnes
I'm sorry for making you drink that milk. 
Both Helen and Agnes hug each other and Agnes begins to sob.
AGNES (CONT'D)
Even after everything you told me about him, I didn't realize the truth. I thought you just wanted him for yourself. 
Agnes looks up at Helen's blank eyes lovingly.
AGNES (CONT'D)
I had to see a glimpse of his true self with my own eyes to believe it.
Agnes looks over at Helen, and puts out her hand toward her.
Her hand touches Helen's hand.
Helen clutches her hand, as we...
DiSSOLVE TO:
Ext. field - daY
It is sunny and bright.  The trees and flowers green and bursting with color.
CLOSE ON TWO HANDS
Swinging back and forth, playful.
PULL BACK TO SEE
Helen and Agnes walking hand-in-hand.  Smiling and laughing.  Helen dressed in bright colors.  Agnes with a pink ribbon in her hair.
They look different.  Relaxed.  At peace.  Together and happy.  
Agnes
You look pretty today.
HeLEN
So do you.  I like that pink ribbon.
It is clear.  Helen can now see.
They continue to skip along.  Enjoying their day.
Suddenly, Agnes slips-- about to fall--
Helen lifts her up by the arm.
Agnes's POV.
HeLEN (CONT'D)
I got you!

FADE TO BLACK.

The end