Dear God by: Laura

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INT.DAWSON'S BEDROOM.NEXT MORNING

Sunlight is streaming in through Dawson's window. Joey is laying in Dawson's arms, they are both sleeping peacefully. The blankets are wrapped tightly around the sleeping pair. Dawson stirs slightly, pulling Joey closer. He slowly opens his eyes and the events of the night before come flooding back to him as he sees Joey laying next to him. He smiles and lovingly strokes her hair. She wakes up, sighing happily. She gently lays her hand in his chest and looks up at him.

JOEY: Good morning...(He pulls her to him and they kiss.)

DAWSON: How are you?

JOEY: You mean, do I regret last night? (Dawson nods. Joey smiles.) I don't regret a second of it, Dawson. (They kiss again.) How about you?

DAWSON: What? Regret waking up next to my best friend, who's also the best girl in the world, with no clothes on after a wonderful night full of first and *great* experiences? (Joey blushes. Dawson smiles at her wickedly.) I mean, God, if I had to go through that whole *horrible ordeal* again, I don't know what how I could possibly survive.. (Joey laughs and starts to tickle him.)

JOEY: One of these days I'm going to kill you, Dawson Leery. (Dawson fights back, and soon he has her pinned. She tries to squirm from his grasp but can't.) Okay, okay, I give! I give. (Dawson laughs.)

DAWSON: Wuss. (She glares at him jokingly, and his lips fall on hers. Dawson's body is pressing closer to Joey's when his bedroom door opens and Gail walks in. She stops, alarmed, surprised, embarrassed, and shocked. She gasps loudly. Joey and Dawson break away from each other and sit up, quickly pulling the sheets of his bed tighter around their bodies. Gail stares at them both for a second, backing towards the door. She looks as if she has just seen someone being murdered.)

GAIL: Um...oh god...I...I am...leaving. I'm leaving. (She almost trips as she stumbles back into the hallway. Dawson and Joey just look at each other, completely stunned, their mouths hanging open. Neither of them know what to do or what to say.)

CUT TO OPENING THEME/CREDTIS

INT.LEERY HOUSE.KITCHEN.MORNING

Dawson comes down the stairs and walks into the kitchen cautiously. His father is sitting at the table, reading the paper. His mother is pacing back and forth by the counter, drinking a glass of orange juice. Dawson quietly sets his book bag on a chair, eyeing his parents nervously. They both look up at him as he slowly walks to the fridge. Mitch obviously hasn't been clued into what Gail saw. He smiles at his son.

MITCH: Morning, Dawson.

DAWSON: (nervous) Morning. Morning, Mom. (Gail just nods, looking petrified to look at him. She sets her empty cup down in the sink. Dawson shuts the fridge, deciding he doesn't want any breakfast.)

GAIL: So...where's Joey?

DAWSON: (quickly) She went home to get changed for school.

GAIL: (tightly) You didn't ask her to stay for breakfast?

DAWSON: (heading for the door) I did. She...wasn't comfortable with coming down here...in front of you...(He realizes he forgot his backpack and walks back to pick it up from the table. Mitch looks at him, confused.)

MITCH: Why would Joey be uncomfortable in front of you, Gail? (Gail sighs.)

GAIL: Cause I walked in on them this morning. (Mitch doesn't get the meaning of the statement. Dawson opens the front door.)

DAWSON: (simply and honestly, knowing it's the best way.) Dad, me and Joey had sex last night.

MITCH: (beaming) All right, Dawson! You devil. (Dawson blushes.)

DAWSON: Stop, Dad, before you take something *incredibly* special and beautiful and turn it into a manly macho scoreboard thing. (He leaves before his parents can say anything else. Gail looks at Mitch, appalled.)

MITCH: What? (Gail shakes her head and walks out of the room.)

INT.CAPESIDE HIGH.HALLWAY.MORNING

The hall is crowded with students getting ready for homeroom. Dawson is at his locker, but he keeps looking down the hallway, searching for Joey. He stands on tip-toe, trying to see the doorway to the school when suddenly someone grabs him from behind, wrapping her arms around his waist. Dawson jumps and quickly turns. He sees Joey and he smiles widely. She smiles back and playfully runs her hands up his chest. He leans back against the locker.

DAWSON: Hey...I've been looking for you all morning.

JOEY: I was running so late! Alexander was being a pain in the ass. (Her smile fades) What about your mom? Um...how'd she take it? I'm assuming your dad gave you a medal, right? (Dawson laughs.)

DAWSON: Yeah, Dad's as proud as ever...Mom is still completely embarrassed. But I think she'll be okay.

JOEY: (worriedly) What if she tells Bessie? I'll never be allowed to sleep over again! (Dawson pulls her close to him.)

DAWSON: (comfortingly) Don't worry, Joey. We'll deal with things as they come. Together. Okay? (Joey smiles and nods, and they kiss. It grows to be very passionate. Pacey stops behind them and laughs.)

PACEY: Do we need to hose you two down? (They pull away from each other.) We don't need any students losing their virginity in the hallway, you know what I mean? (Dawson and Joey can't help but blush bright red before Joey rolls her eyes at Pacey.)

JOEY: Bite me, Pacey. (But she quickly starts to smile again. Dawson wraps his arm around her waist.)

DAWSON: So, Pacey, how's it going? Any changes on the home front?

PACEY: (sighing) Nope. Still gonna be drill sergeant Pacey Witter someday, I s'pose. (He throws up his hands.) No changing the old guy's mind. (Joey giggles as Dawson's hand runs up and down her back. Pacey looks at her, confused.) What's so funny about this? (Joey quickly puts on a somber face and Dawson tries not to smile.)

JOEY: Nothing, Pacey. It's not funny at all. (She can't stop herself and smiles again.) I...have to go to homeroom. (Joey and Dawson quickly kiss.)

DAWSON: I'll see you in lunch.

JOEY: (mockingly, recalling what he had once said to Jen.) If not sooner. (He laughs.)

DAWSON: I'll get you for that one! (Joey sticks her tongue out at him and walks into her classroom. Pacey eyes Dawson, but Dawson is off in his own world.)

PACEY: What are *you* so happy about? (He waves his hand in front of Dawson's beaming face.)

DAWSON: (shaking his head) Nothing! (He shuts his locker and heads down the hall. Pacey runs after him, laughing. He stops Dawson.)

PACEY: (knowingly) Dawson, did you and Joey get horizontal or something? (Dawson blushes, embarrassed.)

DAWSON: *Pacey*!

PACEY: (slapping Dawson's chest) You *did*, didn't you? Oh man, Dawson Leery finally got laid! The oompa-loompa's a big man now! (Dawson grabs Pacey and covers his mouth. A few other students eye the pair, looking at them strangely. Dawson smiles nervously at them and lets Pacey go.)

DAWSON: Pacey, you say *anything* to anyone and I will seriously *kill* you!

PACEY: So that's a yes then?

DAWSON: What?

PACEY: You and Joey slept together?

DAWSON: (looking around to make sure no one heard) Pacey, shut up! (Pacey just smiles. Dawson moves closer to him, speaking in a hushed and intense tone.) Pacey, I am deadly serious. This is private information that not even *you* should know. If you repeat this to anyone-*especially* to Abby Morgan, I will kick your ass. And don't you dare even *think* about telling Joey that you know. She'll kill me if she finds out I told you.

PACEY: (innocently) But you didn't tell me. I just guessed and you didn't deny it.

DAWSON: (warningly) Pacey....

PACEY: Dawson, man, don't worry! I won't mention it to the Ice Queen or anyone else. (Pacey smiles at Dawson re-assuringly. Dawson looks relieved.)

DAWSON: Good. (He sighs a breath of relief and walks into homeroom. Pacey slaps his hands together and laughs. He walks away as the bell rings, shaking his head as he thinks of his two best friends.)

CUT TO COMMERCIAL

INT.LEERY HOUSE.KITCHEN.MORNING

Gail and Mitch are sitting at the table talking. She looks upset, but he looks like he could care less. He continues to read the paper as Gail talks.

GAIL: Mitch, you could at least pay attention to me! This is our son's life we're talking about here!

MITCH: Calm down. Dawson knows what he's doing. He and Joey love each other.

GAIL: (disbelieving) But they're 15! I wouldn't care if I walked in on them when he was 21! By having a *sexual* relationship so *early*...do you know what a risk that is? (Mitch sets down his paper, looking at Gail.)

MITCH: Look...I trust Dawson. And I also figure that this was a one time thing. I doubt the two will make this a regular extra-curricular activity.

GAIL: (rolling her eyes) What makes you say that?

MITCH: They're both responsible, okay? Joey knows what happened to her sister. I'm assuming that this whole thing with Pacey having to leave soon made them feel a little needy and insecure, made them appreciate each other more. *Vulnerability*, Gail, pure vulnerability. Dawson loves Joey too much to ever risk getting her pregnant. I just have a feeling you won't catch them in bed together again. (He simply returns to his paper, thinking his case was made.)

GAIL: Damn straight I'll never catch them in bed again. Joey is not sleeping over here any more, and that's final. (Mitch looks at her again, disgusted.)

MITCH: That's not going to solve anything! It'll just make them angry. If anything, you'll drive them closer together, Gail. (He stands up, and walks over to her. Gently, he rubs her shoulders.) They're growing up. You have to let them make their own mistakes. We have to trust them. They can sleep in the same bed without having sex.

GAIL: They clearly can't. I have to call Bessie and tell her this is going on. She has a right to know. (She stands and rushes to the phone, but Mitch stops her.)

MITCH: Joey will tell her if she wants her to know. We can not go around behind Dawson and Joey's backs, okay? Anything that concerns them should be discussed *with* them up front and honestly. (Gail sighs and sits down.)

GAIL: I know...but I also know it only takes one time to screw up both their lives, Mitch. (They both look at each other sadly.)

INT.CAPESIDE HIGH.CAFETERIA.AFTERNOON

Pacey comes out of the lunch line and searches the crowded cafeteria for his friends. He sees Dawson sitting with Jen across the room. He heads over. Joey is walking in through the doors, carrying her lunch in a brown paper bag. Pacey plops his tray down across the table from Dawson as Joey throws her bag next to Dawson. Jen says hi, not knowing what Pacey does. Dawson looks up at Joey, breaking out into a smile.

DAWSON: Hey, gorgeous. (He playfully pulls her down onto his lap and they kiss. Jen. Then she squirms away and sits in her own chair.)

JOEY: Don't call me gorgeous. (Dawson laughs.) Oh, and that reminds me to tell you that I borrowed a book from the library on Bonnie and Clyde? And they *were* romantically involved. You were *wrong*, Leery. (Dawson looks at her sheepishly.)

DAWSON: I guess so.

JOEY: I think as punishment-

PACEY: We're into punishments now? Hoo-hoo, Dawson. (Dawson throws him a warning look. Joey rolls her eyes. Jen looks confused.)

JOEY: You're perverted, Pacey. Anyway, I think you're going to take me out to dinner, Dawson.

DAWSON: Am I?

JOEY: You are. Tonight.

DAWSON: Well...if I must, I must. (Dawson kisses her gently. Jen looks as if she's about to throw up.)

JEN: So, Pacey! How's this thing going with your dad? (Dawson and Joey break away from each other, taking the hint.)

PACEY: I'd rather...*not* talk about military school or my dumbass father today. Or ever again. I'd like to live in complete and utter denial for awhile. Maybe if I tell myself enough times that I'm staying here in Capeside I'll actually get to stay here. You never know. (Pacey shrugs, and changes the subject.) How's your Grandmother? Is she still really upset about your Grandpa? (Jen sighs.)

JEN: She loved him *so* much...I don't know if she'll ever really get over it...but she's been going to church every morning and every night, praying non-stop for almost five months now. She keeps *begging* me to go with her.

DAWSON: Maybe you should go. (Jen looks alarmed. Joey steps in.)

JOEY: But Jen's an atheist.

DAWSON: Yeah, I know. But maybe you should just forget your principles and your beliefs for a little while.

JEN: (sitting up straight, her eyes wide.) *What*? I *did* go with her, the night he died! Isn't once enough?

DAWSON: I just think your Grandmother really needs you by her side right now.

JEN: And I can't comfort her without compromising my beliefs?

JOEY: He's not saying-

DAWSON: I'm not saying change your views...just go to church with her or something. You wouldn't even have to pray, or worship or sing hymns...just sit there. With her. (Jen looks stunned.)

PACEY: Yeah, it might help her, Jen. (Jen looks at him equally stunned. She looks to Joey to defend her, but Joey just nods slightly and looks down. Jen lets out a deep breath and leans back in her chair.)

JEN: (quietly) You guys really think I should do this, huh? (They all nod.)

PACEY: Plus, if you get on good terms with your Grams, she might loosen up a little and stop watching over you every living second. (Jen sighs once more.)

JEN: Yeah, but I hoped I'd gain her trust my acting *responsible* and adult. Not by giving in and letting her drag me to church every Sunday. (Jen picks at her lunch, looking sad. Pacey stares down at his own lunch, thinking about military school. Dawson and Joey look at them both sadly. Seeing Joey's expression, Dawson sets his hand on her leg and smiles reassuringly. She smiles back.)

INT.CAPESIDE HIGH.GIRL'S BATHROOM.AFTERNOON

Joey walks into the practically empty bathroom as a toilet flushes. She pulls a brush out of her backpack and starts brushing her hair, looking almost guilty that she's interested in her appearance. A stall door opens and Jen comes out. Jen smiles and Joey returns it with a half-smile, and sets the brush down on the counter. Jen starts to fix her own hair, and Joey hurriedly finishes brushing hers.

JOEY: So, Jen...how are you? I mean, with what we talked about in lunch today?

JEN: Okay. I'm still a little, you know, upset with my Gramps dying. It's weird not having him there anymore. But it's only been a few months. I'm still getting used to it.

JOEY: Yeah, a big empty void. Know what that feels like.

JEN: (thoughtfully) Yeah, you do. Joey, can I ask you something?

JOEY: Sure.

JEN: How did you...how did you keep going? When your mom died? (Joey stops brushing her hair mid-stroke, and looks at Jen in the mirror.)

JOEY: Um...

JEN: (quickly) Sorry-that's too personal, right? I-

JOEY: No, it's okay. (She turns and lifts herself up so she is sitting on the counter. Jen sits down next to her.) When Mom died...I had to...just let myself *really* know that she was gone, you know what I mean? I told myself every day that she would never wake me up in the morning anymore, or make me dinner...but she'd still be in my heart no matter what. As clichéd as this may sound, as long as the memories are still with you, the person never really will die even if they're not around anymore. You just have to get used to it and accept the fact they're dead. (Jen just nods.) It really helps if you have someone to talk to.

JEN: To tell you the truth, I was sort of hoping that person would be...

JOEY: Dawson?

JEN: No, I meant you. (Joey looks taken aback.) It's just that you've been through this before. I thought that you'd have some "pearls of wisdom" to dispense.

JOEY: (laughing) Wisdom isn't usually a word that applies to me. I figured that you'd want Dawson to be by your side through this-I mean, he was there for me when my Mom died...I would've helped you out sooner but I thought you were waiting around for him to come to your rescue.

JEN: (slowly) No...(She smiles at Joey) Dawson's been a little *preoccupied* lately, (she nudges Joey) if you get my drift. I think he's had a tall brunette from down the creek on his mind 24 hours a day. (Joey blushes and giggles lightly.)

JOEY: Well, to be honest with you he's been the only thing on *my* mind. (Jen smiles knowingly.)

JEN: (jokingly) So, have you two done it yet or is Pacey going to have to bug you about that too? (Joey just blushes a deeper shade of red and looks down at her hands, knowing if Jen sees her face she'll see the truth.) No, but seriously, have you ever...*thought* about it? I mean, I've been through all...*that* before and I'm here if you need me, Joey. I'd love to have late night sleepovers and have girlish-bonding moments-you might even start to like having your nails painted. (Joey laughs.)

JOEY: Nice try, Jen, but if you force me to read SEVENTEEN or something I might have to kill you. (Jen smiles.)

JEN: Okay, no teen magazines. (Jen pauses and Joey shifts in her seat. She looks relieved that Jen didn't pursue the sex issue any further.) But would you be interested? In maybe sleeping over sometime? The house feels really empty with just me and Grams now so I'm sure she wouldn't mind having another person there.

JOEY: But your Grandmother hates me. (Jen laughs.)

JEN: Come on! Don't say that. She doesn't *hate* you.

JOEY: But I'm of the wrong element, remember?

JEN: (smiling) Well technically, so am I. (she looks at Joey pleadingly) What do you say, tomorrow night? It's a Friday.

JOEY: (shaking her head) It's movie night, remember?

JEN: Then how about afterwards? We can go to Dawson's for movies and then you can sleep over at my house. (Joey gives in.)

JOEY: Okay. But if there's any makeup or nail polish out when we get there I'm bolting, k? (Jen smiles.)

JEN: Okay. (Joey gets down and heads for the door.)

JOEY: We better get going. The bell is going to ring in like thirty seconds. (Jen jumps down.)

JEN: Let's hurry. (They both race out into the hallway.)

INT.DAWSON'S ROOM.NIGHT

Joey is sitting on Dawson's bed, leaning back against the headboard. Jen is sitting in Dawson's desk chair and Pacey is sprawled out on the floor. Dawson is standing by the TV, holding up some movies.

DAWSON: Okay, it's Rob Reiner night. We have A Few Good Men and The Princess Bride. Which would you guys like to watch?

PACEY: (sitting up) I vote for Inigo Montoya and Fezzick. JOEY: Well...*normally* I'd vote for Tom Cruise...but I'm in the mood for a little Westley and Buttercup. What about you Jen? (They all look at her.)

JEN: "As you wish."

DAWSON: (popping the movie out of its case.) God, have *all* of you seen this movie before?

JOEY: A million times or maybe more. (She smiles devilishly as Dawson puts the movie into the VCR.)

DAWSON: (rolling his eyes at her) Leave the rhymes to Fezzick, okay?

PACEY: Aw, Jo's better than him any day. (Dawson plops down next to Joey on the bed and hits the lights.)

DAWSON: Stop it or you're both going to die.

JOEY: I wonder-(Dawson covers her mouth with his hand and laughs a little. He takes his hand away and she gives him a quick kiss on the cheek before nestling in close to him. She takes the remote and presses play.) Okay, no more rhymes. (The whole group turns their attention to the television screen.)

Dawson turns the lights back on and they all blink, letting their eyes adjust. Pacey gets up first, stretching. Jen slowly climbs out of her chair, glancing at Joey who is snuggled in Dawson's arms. She yawns and sits up.

PACEY: Well, it's back to the Witter family prison for me.

JEN: Yeah, I better go too. Grams will be worried. Joey, you coming? (Joey nods.)

JOEY: Just give me a minute-I'll be right down. (Jen looks from her to Dawson and nods.)

JEN: Um...sure. I'll wait for you in the living room. (Jen and Pacey leave. Dawson looks surprised as Joey stands up and puts on her jacket.)

DAWSON: Jo, where are you going?

JOEY: Jen invited me to sleep over tonight.

DAWSON: But Joey, it's movie night! You always sleep over!

JOEY: Dawson, Jen needs me right now, okay? She needs someone to be her friend.

DAWSON: (worried, he sits up and looks directly at her.) Joey, is this about Wednesday night? Cause just because or relationship has gone to a new level doesn't mean that we can't simply *sleep* next to one another any more.

JOEY: Dawson, it's not about that. You know I wouldn't bail on our usual sleepover without being honest with you about the reason why. Jen is my friend now and we need to spend some time together, okay? (Dawson sighs.)

DAWSON: Are you *sure* that's the only reason you're leaving? (Joey rolls her eyes.)

JOEY: Dawson, stand up.

DAWSON: What?

JOEY: *Stand up*! (Dawson stands, unsure of what Joey's reasoning is. Without a word Joey pulls him to her aggressively and kisses him passionately. He's surprised but quickly gets into it. She breaks away, leaving him breathless.) I am perfectly fine with the new sexual aspect of our relationship, Dawson, okay?

DAWSON: (looking at her wide-eyed.) Okay.

JOEY: (she kisses him on the cheek) Good. I'm leaving. See you tomorrow. (She opens the door and walks out. Dawson sits on his bed in a slight daze. He laughs a little to himself and looks at the door as Joey closes it behind her.)

INT.LEERY HOUSE.LIVING ROOM.CONTINUOUS

Joey comes downstairs, fixing her jacket. Pacey looks up at her, laughing. Jen is sitting on the couch, patiently waiting.

PACEY: Whoa, Joey, that was sure a quickie. Dawson enjoy it? (Joey punches him hard in the arm as she passes by.)

JOEY: You're sick, Pacey, plain old sick. (She looks at Jen.) I'm ready to go, are you? (Mrs. Leery walks in from the kitchen and eyes Joey nervously.)

PACEY: I'm leaving, so, bye Joey, Jen. Bye Mrs. Leery! (He waves to her as he heads out the door. Jen gets up.)

JEN: Yeah, I'm all set. (Gail approaches the two girls. Joey looks at her.)

GAIL: Well, it's been nice seeing you two. Um, Joey, you're not going to sleep over?

JOEY: (nervously) Um, no...I'm spending the night at Jen's.

GAIL: (relieved) Oh, good. (Jen looks at her a bit strangely. Joey looks down at the ground.) I mean, it's good that you two are friends. I know that you weren't getting along before, so... (she trails off, uncomfortable)

JEN: (smiling) Yes, we've worked out our differences. (Joey and Gail just exchange looks-they are both obviously embarrassed.)

JOEY: Well, we better get going. I can see your Grandmother looking out your window. (Joey gestures out the doorway, where the silhouette of Mrs. Ryan can be seen in her lighted window. Jen nods.)

JEN: Yeah, we better. Thanks for having us, Mrs. Leery.

GAIL: No problem, girls. Have a nice night! (Joey and Jen walk outside. Joey shuts the door behind her with a sigh. They continue down the front porch steps. Jen looks at Joey inquiringly.)

JEN: Why was Mrs. Leery treating you so...*differently*? (Joey shrugs, not wanting to tell jen the truth.)

JOEY: I don't know...I didn't even really notice any difference... (She smiles meekly and walks a little faster towards Jen's house.)

EXT.PACEY'S HOUSE.NIGHT

Pacey wearily treads up the path towards his house. The front porch light is on, as well as a light in the right front window. Slowly he climbs the steps and puts his hand on the door knob. Thinking, he takes it off and lowers it again. Changing his mind once more, he lightly touches his fingers to the brass handle. Sharply, he turns away and walks down the porch as if pacing.

PACEY: Come on, Pacey. You can do this. Just...go in there...and tell him you're not going. Once and for all. It'll be final. (He nervously runs his hands through his short-cropped hair.) Yeah, sure it'll be final. The old man will most likely whip out his army knife and kill me right then and there. And Doug will be there, laughing at me, like he's some my humiliation is a spectator sport. (Pacey sits down on the porch swing with a thud.) There's no way out of this. What've you got to lose? (He ponders his own question for a minute.) I have nothing to lose. I might as well go out with a bang. (He stands up, squaring his shoulders. Pacey takes a deep breath and firmly sets his hand on the handle. He quickly turns it as if he's ripping off a Band-Aid and steps inside. Just as quickly he shuts the door behind him.

INT.JEN'S BEDROOM.NIGHT

Jen is searching through her closet for something. Joey stalks back into the room, looking angry. Jen turns to her, and stops, surprised. Jen sets a shirt down on her bed and walks towards Joey.

JEN: What's wrong?

JOEY: I told you I shouldn't have gone down to ask your Grams where the extra sleeping bag is. She practically ignored me for a few minutes, then snidely remarked something about my father and how no one expected him to be good anyway, since he's not a God-fearing man you know, and this was all under her breath of course, cause she has no guts to actually say it in a normal speaking tone so I can hear her clearly! This is while she's making herself a nice cup of tea. Is that how she pretends to be a *nice, caring person*? Putting on an old fuzzy bathrobe and slippers and making tea like a good old American Grandmother? Tell the *stupid bitch* down there that she's not fooling anybody. Everyone knows she's a *racist*, *narrow-minded*, *self-important jerk*! (Joey sits down on the bed and Jen's mouth drops open. Joey repents.) Sorry, Jen...I know she's your grandmother and I shouldn't be saying these things in front of you...but ughhhh! She makes me *so* mad!

JEN: (laughing) No, Joey, it's okay. I know she can be...all the things you said, not to mention over-bearing and over-protective, strict and *beyond* annoying with that religious stuff. (Jen sits next to Joey on the bed.) I mean, I *love* her and all...sometimes I even *like* her...but I would give anything to see the look on her face if you had said those things directly to her! (Both girls laugh. Joey lightens up, having vented all her harsh feelings towards Mrs. Ryan.)

JOEY: Oh yeah, the old woman says she's bringing us-or rather *you*-up some cookies later.(Jen nods and hands Joey the shirt she had set on the bed.) Here. You can wear this. I'll go find some boxers in my drawer. (Jen heads to her dresser and starts searching.)

JOEY: Thanks. I feel like such an idiot. I can't believe I left my backpack at home. It was all packed and everything.

JEN: (smiling as she hands her a pair of shorts.) Just in *such a rush* to get to Dawson's it must've slipped your mind, right? (Joey blushes. Jen giggles.) Ah, I saw that glimmer of pink color in your cheeks, Joey Potter. (She nudges her friend.) You never could hide your feelings for Dawson well. (Joey's mouth drops, offended.)

JOEY: *What*? Jen, you didn't even know I liked him until Abby told you in detention.

JEN: Well...I *knew* for sure when you two *kissed* in that detention-

JOEY: It was a dare!-

JEN: But I had my faint *suspicions* before then. Wasn't it *you* who said that New Yorkers like to move fast? (Jen looks at Joey questioningly) Well, that also means we figure things out pretty fast too. And if I have figured *this* out correctly, I'd say that you and Dawson are closer than ever and soon the big sex question is gonna come up. (Joey looks embarrassed.) Do you have an answer for that question when he asks it?

JOEY: (playing innocent) And what question would that be? (Jen grabs one of her pillows and hugs it to her body, looking at Joey with a smile.)

JEN: The "do you want to with me" question. Of course, with Dawson it'll be this *whole scripted* thing that he probably ripped off some great romantic classic and edited to fit the occasion. (Joey smiles.)

JOEY: (without thinking) No, it wasn't like that. (Jen looks at her stunned. Joey quickly corrects herself.) I mean, I don't *think* it'll be like that. (Jen just stares at her.)

JEN: But Joey, you said "it wasn't like that"...which implies directly that you and Dawson have already spent a night together.

JOEY: (shrugging, looking for a way out.) Well of course we *spend* nights together...I've been sleeping over since I was 7-

JEN: You *know* that's *not* what I mean. (Joey slides off the end of the bed and onto the floor. The mood becomes quiet. Jen slowly lowers herself to sit indian-style next to Joey. She watches her intently.)

JOEY: Wednesday night...I came back over to Dawson's after talking to Pacey for awhile-about military school, and changing, and...stuff like that. (Joey pauses, and Jen waits expectantly.)

JEN: And...?

JOEY: So...I want back to Dawson's...and we were talking...and then we were kissing...and we were on his bed...(Jen's face falls...but Joey's looking at the rug, picking pieces of lint off of it.) And he only said that it was a big step and he didn't want me to regret it...and he asked me if I was sure...(Joey half-smiles to herself, remembering the night.) And I just told him not to analyze...and then... (Her words drift off.)

JEN: (disbelieving) You didn't.

JOEY: (giggling) We did. (Joey looks up and Jen quickly smiles.)

JEN: Why didn't you tell me? JOEY: I *wanted* to...I just didn't know if it was something...you would be...(Joey searches for the right word.) *comfortable* hearing. After all, you are Dawson's ex-girlfriend.

JEN: (shrugging off her feelings of hurt and jealousy) Naw...we were only going out for a millisecond. I knew his mind was never fully on me. As soon as I figured out it was *you* he wanted...well, I knew it was meant to be. (Jen reaches out and gives Joey a hug, then looks at her, concerned.) But...you used something, right? (Joey blushes.)

JOEY: Of course we did.

JEN: Do Dawson's parents or Bessie know?

JOEY: (laughing nervously) Well...that's actually why Mrs. Leery was acting so strangely towards me...

JEN: It's understandable. It's not everyday your little boy sleeps with the little girl from down the creek.

JOEY: (shrugging) Yeah...his Dad was okay with it though... (She takes a deep breath) But of course he's not the one who *walked in on us* in the morning. (Jen gasps and tries not to laugh.)

JEN: She *didn't*.

JOEY: (looking pitifully disturbed over it.) She did! Mrs. Leery was beyond shocked...and of course me and Dawson were completely embarrassed! I never thought I could look her in the face again. I just thank god that we weren't *doing* anything excepts kissing. Under the covers.

JEN: (sighing) Look on the bright side. In New York, *my* Dad walked in on me and Billy on my parent's own *bed*, out of the covers, *in the act*. (Joey winces.)

JOEY: Yikes.

JEN: He hasn't been able to look me in the eye since. (She looks at Joey sadly.)

INT.JEN'S HOUSE.HALLWAY OUTSIDE JEN'S BEDROOM.CONTINUOUS

Grams is coming up the stairs, carrying a tray of cookies. She hears Jen's voice and comes to a stop outside her door, and begins to listen.

INT.JEN'S BEDROOM.CONTINUOUS

Jen hugs the pillow even tighter to her body. Joey gets ready for an emotional downpour, knowing Jen is about to tell her something big.

JEN: In the city...I was so screwed up, Joey. I know that now. I knew it then too...I just didn't know how to stop it. I don't know what Dawson told you...

JOEY: Well...pretty much everything.

JEN: (shrugging) Yeah, that's what I figured. I had sex *way to early*, Joey. I wish I could just have that one moment back. That small second when I had the oppurtunity to say *no*, or *stop*...but I never did. I was in with the wrong crowd, dating the wrong boys...everyone could see it but me. (Jen pauses, as if reaching an even bigger part of her history.) And then I came here, to *escape* all that. To start over. My parents just sent me here cause they were ashamed...and thought taking me away from the city was the only way to *reform* me. But I had to make the decision on my own...to be a better person. But it's as if everywhere I turn, everywhere I go, someone or something reminds me of my past. I feel like I'm stuck in a bad soap opera. You know, the young blonde trying to out run her past, but it always catches up to her and gets her into trouble? I feel like I'm on the run *all of the time*, 24 hours a day. Grams keeps spying on me, and *reminding* me...watching who I talk to and who I go out with...telling me that I'm a bad girl and she doesn't know what to do with me.

JOEY: (quietly) Have you told her how you feel?

JEN: Tons of times. She just...*doesn't* listen. Her only reply is "if only you went to church, none of this would've happened," or "if you come to church with me on Sunday, you'll be a better person." Grams doesn't understand that religion is just *not* something I believe in! I believe in myself. Can't a person be improved without the help of some *Almighty Spirit*?

JOEY: Of *course* they can. Just cause your grandmother doesn't believe in it doesn't mean it's not possible.

JEN: I wish she would give me a chance! It's like as long as I keep my own beliefs she won't change her mind about who I am... (Jen leans back against her bed with a loud sigh. Joey just looks at her for a minute.)

INT.JEN'S HOUSE.HALLWAY OUTSIDE JEN'S ROOM.CONTINUOUS

Grams backs away from the door as the room falls silent. She has obviously been affected by Jen's little speech to Joey. So affected, in fact, she forgets the whole purpose of her coming upstairs was to bring the girls some cookies. She simply turns around and goes back downstairs.

CUT TO COMMERCIAL

INT.DAWSON'S BEDROOM.NIGHT

Dawson is busy at his computer, hurriedly typing something up. He seems completely oblivious to the fact his parents are standing in his doorway. The keys bang loudly and rapidly as words run across the screen. His eyes sort of have a glazed over look, tired from staring at the screen for a long time. The digital clock on his desk reads 12:30 am. Seeing that Dawson's not paying attention, Mitch knocks lightly on his open door. Not looking up, Dawson replies the beckon.

DAWSON: Yeah, come on in, Dad. I'm just writing up a scene for a new movie I'm writing.

MITCH: (walking over and setting his hand on his son's shoulder, he glimpses at the screen.) Looks like you've already got a lot done.

DAWSON: Yeah, I've been writing ever since my friends left. I was inspired. (Dawson still hasn't realized his mother's in the room.)

MITCH: (curious) What's it about?

DAWSON: (turning from the computer to explain to his father eagerly.) It's a romance. It's about-(He sees his mother. She nervously sits on his bed, then gets back up quickly as she remembers what happened on that bed.) Oh, hi Mom.

GAIL: Hi, honey...Um...do you think your movie could wait for a few minutes? (Dawson looks at her suspiciously)

DAWSON: Uh...sure. Why?

GAIL: Because your father and I, well, we have something we'd like to talk to you about. (Dawson looks almost scared.)

DAWSON: You know, I already had this talk in the fourth grade...I remember it pretty well so I don't think we need to go through the whole horrible, uncomfortable experience again, okay? (Mitch shakes his head.)

MITCH: I agree with Dawson. These sit down, frank, technical talks just isn't my style.

GAIL: (angry) What would you rather do, Mitch? Just hand him a couple of condoms and say "Here, go have fun"?

MITCH: (nodding, not seeing the problem) Yeah! That sounds like a pretty good idea!

GAIL: You can't possibly be serious! I consider sex to be a fun and enjoyable thing, and I am more than comfortable with talking about it openly but 15 is just too young for our own son to be sexually active! I am *not* comfortable with *that*. At *all*

MITCH: Gail, you are over-reacting-

DAWSON: Um, is this a private conversation of can anyone join? (They both turn and look at him. Then Mitch looks at his wife, thoughtfully.)

MITCH: You know, all this heated discussion is turning me on.

DAWSON: *Dad*!

GAIL: Look, Dawson...I just wanted to make sure you knew all the dangers and risks that are involved with this and I hope you realize what would happen if an accident occurred. Your life would be ruined, and so would Joey's. We're both trusting you to be a responsible *adult* about this, since this is an *adult* activity. (Dawson just blushes.)

DAWSON: Okay, okay, Mom, I know. Both Joey and I fully understand the potential consequences of our actions and are ready to accept whatever may happen has a result of taking our relationship to a whole different and new level. You know me and Joey...we analyze everything to death. (Gail just nods, trying not to let on how concerned she still is. Mitch just smiles goofily.)

(SC)EXT.PACEY'S HOUSE.NIGHT

Pacey comes flying down the steps, landing face first in the dirt and dead leaves on the ground. He lets out a small cry as his whole body comes in contact with the hard surface, followed by a yelp of pain.

MR WITTER: (OS) (yelling loudly) You think you're *above* going to military school? Huh? You just get your ass off my property! I don't want to see you 'round here anymore, young man, until you are *fully* ready to come back and *beg* for my forgiveness! (The booming voice is cut off as Pacey hears the door slam shut with a bang. He struggles to pick himself up as the porch and house lights go off, leaving him alone in the eerie moonlight. Pacey bites his lip, trying to keep himself from crying, but as he continues to struggle the tears begin to fall. The tiny droplets of water hit the dust softly. Pacey manages to stand up. He is clutching his right arm and his stomach, black bruises forming around both his eyes. A small trickle of blood runs from his nose and the left corner of his mouth. Slowly, he tries to wipe it off as he staggers down the path into the night.

INT.JEN'S BEDROOM.NIGHT

Jen and Joey are sitting on the edge of Jen's bed, eating popcorn. They're watching a movie and they are both obviously entranced by it. As if on cue, they both tilt their heads, gazing intently at the image on-screen. The shot switches to reveal Brad Pitt standing in the blowing dust in tight jeans and a cowboy hat, with no shirt on. He has his arm extended, trying to thumb a ride. The camera pans back to Joey and Jen.

JOEY: (murmuring) I have *got* to get me a copy of this movie. (Jen nods.)

JEN: Just *renting* it is nowhere near good enough. (They both smile unconsciously as they watch Brad jump into the back of a convertible.)

EXT.CAPESIDE.SCREEN PLAY VIDEO.LATE NIGHT

Pacey approaches the dark video store glumly. He is still staggering about as if he is drunk. His eyes are almost swollen shut-he can barely see. Clumsily, Pacey fishes his keys out of the pocket of his dirty khakis and tries to find the right one. He fumbles for a little while, but after trying two other keys he finds the right one. The door opens and Pacey stumbles inside. Thinking, he punches in the security code to shut off all the alarms before he proceeds into the actual store.

PACEY: (mumbling) Last thing I need is Police Captain Witter here to arrest me for burglary. (Pacey slowly walks back to the bathrooms. He's re-gaining a little bit of his balance now. Opening the heavy door, he practically falls inside and the automatic lights turn on. His distended eyes adjust to the bright lights and for the first time he sees what his father did to him. Tears begin to pour down his face once more. This time, they're tears of rage. Angry, Pacey stomps his feet and bangs the sink's edge; punching the hard linoleum covered walls and yelling out profanities to no one in particular. His knuckles hit against the hard surfaces and begin to bleed, his body aching every time he moved. Finally, he stops when he realizes he's only injuring himself further. Trying to regain his composure, he rips some paper towels from the holder and turns on the faucet. He splashes his face with cold water and tries to rub off the dried blood with the paper towels and his fingers. After a few minutes, Pacey looks at himself in the mirror once more. His shirt is covered with blood and dirt, his pale beige khakis now a deep dark spattered brown, and his arms and face are covered with black and blue marks. Gently, he touches his cheek, surveying the damage.) I am *never* going back there again. There is no way anyone can make me even go near that man again. (He makes this vow to himself out loud and stares at his battered reflection in the mirror.)

EXT.SCREEN PLAY VIDEO.MORNING

Pacey stealthily slips out and locks the door, the early morning rays of sunlight just starting to creep over the horizon. He limps off in the direction of his house.

EXT.PACEY'S HOUSE.MORNING

The house is still dark and silent. Pacey checks his watch. It's only 6:00 am. Quietly, he slips to the side of the house to where his bedroom window is located. He looks at it anxiously, and is delighted to find that it is still open.

PACEY: Knew those idiots wouldn't bother to check my room. (He climbs inside triumphantly. Hurriedly, he goes to his closet and pulls out the largest duffel bag he has. First, an extra pair of shoes was thrown in, followed by khakis and jeans and most of his shirts. He grabs his blanket and pillow from his bed and sticks them in another bag. Then he continues to toss socks and underwear into the first bag. As if he's robbing his own bedroom, Pacey opens his dresser drawer and guiltily takes out an envelope. Opening it, he begins to count the bills inside.

PACEY: (quietly) 20, 70, 120, 140, 150, 200, 300, 310, 360, 410, 430, 480, 485... (His numbers fade off until he reaches the end.) 1, 289...$1, 289.00. (He closes the envelope and kisses it.) Thank god I have a job and a grandma who gives money for Christmas. (He runs to his change tray on his nightstand and dumps all of it into the change pocket of the first bag and zips the pocket closed. Pacey lays his hand on a photo of himself and Joey and Dawson. He looks at it sentimentally for a second, then takes his hand off of it. Then he runs to the window. Quickly he turns back, grabs a notebook and pen along with his small address book, and the picture of his friends. He sticks them in his second bag and feels for his keys in his pocket to make sure they're there. They jingle as he steps out the window. As he lands on the ground outside and turns to shut the window, he smiles.) Good-bye, dear Witter family. You'll never have any idea how much I'll *really* miss you. (Gently he closes the window as not to wake anyone and foil his escape. Slowly Pacey turns and walks away, not looking back.)

CUT TO COMMERCIAL

INT.CAPESIDE HIGH.TWO DAYS LATER.(MONDAY).AFTERNOON

Joey walks down the hallway, apparently looking for someone. She glances into every classroom as she passes by. Suddenly someone grabs her from behind and she jumps. She turns to find Dawson smiling at her lovingly. She rolls her eyes and slaps his arm lightly.

JOEY: Don't scare me like that!

DAWSON: Were you looking for me? (continuing to look up and down the hallway.)

JOEY: (bluntly) No. I'm looking for Pacey. Have you seen him at all since Friday?

DAWSON: No, but I figured he wanted a little time alone to mope. I think he's earned a weekend full of self-pity so I decided not to bother him. I'd just unconsciously try to cheer him up and I *hate* it when people do that to me.

JOEY: I haven't seen him all day. He wasn't even in lunch-he *never* misses lunch.

DAWSON: Joey, relax, okay? Maybe he skipped out and ate lunch someplace else. He's done it before. (Seeing that Joey's worried expression doesn't change, he tries a different tactic.) Tell you what, today after school we'll go over to his house and see what's up, okay? (Joey smiles.)

JOEY: Okay. (Dawson looks at her a bit strangely.)

DAWSON: If you don't mind me asking, why are *you* the one who's constantly worrying about Pacey? It's not like you.

JOEY: (with a fake over-poetic voice) Oh, Dawson, the love I feel for you has made me a more caring and nurturing person! I would give up my own soul to help others! (She swoons and falls into Dawson's arms. He laughs.)

DAWSON: Very funny.

JOEY: Look, Dawson, I know that me and Pacey have been at each other's throats since we hit puberty, but when it comes down to the wire, he's still my other best friend. I don't like *showing* my concern of course, but I just have this feeling that something is *really* wrong.

DAWSON: Premonitions, Joey? Maybe we could call you Mystic Potter, the Psychic Queen.

JOEY: Or you could call me at 3:30. I told Bessie I'd pick something up that Alex left at the sitter's and drop it at home. Just phone me when you're ready to go.

DAWSON: So, I'll *call* you after school, *then* we can go visit Pacey? (Joey nods.)

JOEY: What, Dawson, too complicated of a plan for you? We could simplify it a little by leaving out the whole *making out* thing I had planned. (Dawson laughs again.)

DAWSON: (wrapping his arms around her) And when did you decide to become such a tease?

JOEY: I didn't decide, it's just a natural gift- (Dawson cuts her off with a kiss. Jen walks out of a classroom and sees the happy pair. A wave of jealousy and want rushes through her body and she quickly ducks back into the room so no one sees her obvious desire to punch Joey out and take Dawson for herself. Dawson pulls away slowly, not wanting to open his eyes.)

DAWSON: So...three thirty?

JOEY: Yep... (She kisses him once more and walks down the hall, glancing back once to smile at her boyfriend.)

INT.CLASROOM.CONTINOUS

Jen bounces back into the classroom as she sees Dawson and Joey kissing. Stepping backwards, she crashes right into someone who was on their way out. She jumps, startled. Turning, she sees who she stumbled into and her face falls. Abby looks at her, disgusted.

ABBY: (snottily) Watch where you're going! (Jen looks at her, visibly looking apologetic and sad.)

JEN: (stuttering) I...I'm sorry, Abby. I didn't...mean- (Abby looks at her oddly, eyeing Jen's pale face and her eyes, which are welling up with tears.)

ABBY: (curious) What's wrong?

JEN: Nothing...nothing's wrong. (Abby ducks out into the hallway, to see what Jen was running from. She sees Joey and Dawson and turns and looks at Jen, almost sympathetically.)

ABBY: I know, it's hard seeing your ex move on, isn't it?

JEN: (defensive) That's...that's not it at all...

ABBY: Then what is it?

JEN: It's...well...

ABBY: (putting her hands on her hips as she and Jen walk into the hall.) Jen, don't try to hide it from me. I have the ability to see things very clearly. Cheer up...maybe they'll break up and you can catch him on the rebound.

JEN: No...I don't think they're going to break up *any* time soon. (Abby looks at her, interested by the tone of Jen's voice.)

ABBY: Why not?

JEN: (rolling her eyes.) Just...trust me...their relationship is the strongest relationship I've ever seen. I wouldn't count on them splitting up.

ABBY: Well, you can at least keep your fingers crossed, right? (Jen just sighs and glances at Joey as she breezes past, too happy to notice Jen on the side of the hallway.)

JEN: I'm not even going to bother with that, Abby. See you later. (She walks away, leaving Abby alone.)

EXT.PACEY'S HOUSE.AFTERNOON

Joey knocks on the Witter's front door and looks at Dawson. They patiently wait for it to be answered. Eventually, Doug opens the door, giving the pair a dirty look. They both are taken aback.

DOUG: Yeah, what do you want?

DAWSON: We're here to see Pacey...

DOUG: Good luck finding him. We haven't seen him since Friday night.

JOEY: (alarmed) *What*? (She and Dawson exchange looks, stunned.)

DOUG: Yeah, the little twerp sneaked back into the house, packed up all his clothes and bolted.

JOEY: Why did he have to *sneak* back in?

DOUG: Dad finally got a clue and kicked him out. It took him long enough. (Joey's fist clenches together, ready to punch Doug. Dawson restrains her as Pacey restrained her the last time she and Doug faced off.)

JOEY: You stupid ape-

DAWSON: So, Pacey's gone? You don't have any idea where he is?

DOUG: Nope. Now if you'll excuse me, I have more *important* things to be doing, so... (He simply shuts the door in their faces. They turn and walk down the steps after standing there, shocked, for a moment. Dawson shakes his head.)

DAWSON: I...can't believe this...

JOEY: (quickly) We have to find him. Right now.

DAWSON: I never thought anything like this could happen...I mean...

JOEY: He has to be around Capeside *somewhere*. I doubt he left town.

DAWSON: It's been two days, almost three. Where could he be? I can't believe we've been in the dark about this for so long!

JOEY: He's probably too proud to tell us about this, Dawson. I can't believe his family doesn't even *care*. I wanted to punch Doug *so* bad... (Dawson takes her hand.)

DAWSON: I'm sure he's okay. We just have to find him.

JOEY: We should split up. You check all our childhood places and the ruins, I'll check in town, okay?

DAWSON: (nodding) Sounds like a good plan. We'll meet back at the Ice House in two hours, all right? (Joey nods back. He gives her a quick kiss on the cheek and smiles at her re-assuringly.) He'll be okay, Jo. (He runs off, glancing back once to wave.)

JOEY: (to herself sadly.) Let's hope so. (She hurriedly continues down the road.)

INT.CHURCH.LATE AFTERNOON

Jen appears in the doorway of the church. It's deadly quiet. The tall stained glass windows cast a colored glow throughout the room, the afternoon sunlight illuminating the church. Jen cautiously steps down the aisle, taking it all in. She seems almost afraid. She continues down the aisle until she reaches someone sitting in one of the front pews. Hearing the footsteps, the woman raises her head from her prayers and looks. Grams smiles as Jen sits down next to her.

GRAMS: Jennifer!

JEN: Hi, Grams...I thought you would be here...

GRAMS: It's nice to see you, dear... (Her eyes are welling up.) How are you?

JEN: Fine...how are you?

GRAMS: As good as I can be....(hopefully) Have you come here to pray with me?

JEN: (sighing) Grams...I'm not...let's...let's just...sit here...okay? I just...

GRAMS: Okay.

JEN: (surprised) Okay?

GRAMS: (looking down at her clasped hands.) Jennifer...I don't want you to be angry with me for this...but the other night when you had that Potter girl over...I accidentally heard you speaking...about me...

JEN: (vexed) You did? What did you hear?

GRAMS: I love you, Jennifer. I *do* trust you. I know...I know that things were *hard*...for you in New York and I haven't been very helpful in letting you get past all that, have I?

JEN: No...you haven't.

GRAMS: (quietly) For that...I'd like to apologize. You haven't done anything remotely wrong in the time you've been here, in fact, you've been a model granddaughter...I think...I think I let your anti-religious beliefs destroy our relationship, Jennifer.

JEN: Our relationship isn't *destroyed*, Grams. I-

GRAMS: I just want you to know that I love you...and I think I've been way too hard on you since you arrived.

JEN: Grams, I haven't been easy on you either, you know that.

GRAMS: (turning to look at her granddaughter.) I just...I want you to accept me, Jennifer. I want you to open your mind and accept Christ.

JEN: Well, I want you to accept me, Grams...*all* of me. I know that God is important to you and I don't say you're a bad person for believing that just because I don't. And I don't think you should think less of me because I don't covet any god, Grams.

GRAMS: (tightly) Fair enough... (she relaxes.) Why did you come here today then?

JEN: I wanted to talk to you before I lost my courage. I...my life was messed up and it's still messed up now...and I'm more alone than ever, Grams. I want you to be a part of my life. I want to talk to you. Cause I really need someone right now. Someone who'll listen.

GRAMS: (standing up and offering Jen her hand) Come on. We'll go home, make some hot chocolate and talk some more, alright Jennifer? (Jen smiles and takes her hand. They silently walk down the aisle and out of the church happily.)

EXT.CHURCH.CONTINOUS

Jen and Mrs. Ryan walk down the steps, both smiling. Suddenly Jen sees a familiar person walking up the stairs towards the church. She gasps as she sees his black and blue face and stops in her tracks, trying to pull away from her grandmother.

JEN: Pacey-! (Grams turns, but doesn't see Pacey because at that moment Cliff pulls up in his red convertible alongside the curb.)

CLIFF: Hey, Jen! (Jen looks, then glances back towards Pacey. But he is already gone. She turns back to Cliff and her grandmother reluctantly. Cliff climbs out of his car and walks up the steps, smiling.) Hello, Mrs. Ryan! It's nice to see you again.

GRAMS: (affectionately) Hello, Clifford! It's nice to see you too. How are you?

CLIFF: Fine, thank you. And how are you?

GRAMS: Getting along, thank you.

CLIFF: I was awfully sorry to hear about Mr. Ryan.

GRAMS: Yes, it was very sad...I received your card in the mail-it was very thoughtful of you, young man. (Cliff smiles and looks at Jen.) What are you up to today, Clifford?

CLIFF: Well, actually, I was about to drive over to your house and ask Jen if she wanted to come out to dinner with me, but since I saw you here... (He looks at Jen hopefully. Grams smiles.)

GRAMS: Well, how delightful!

JEN: But Grams, I thought we were going to-

GRAMS: Nonsense, sweetheart. We can do that later. You go have fun! (She looks at Cliff and Cliff smiles.)

CLIFF: Great! (He offers Jen his arm. She fakes a smile and takes it, glancing back at the doorway to the church, wishing she could talk to Pacey.)

JEN: Great. (Mrs. Ryan waves good-bye as Jen climbs into the passenger's side of Cliff's car. He shuts the door after her and walks to the driver's side.)

CUT TO COMMERCIAL

EXT.CAPESIDE.SCREENPLAY VIDEO

Joey is walking along the sidewalk, shuffling her feet sadly. She hadn't found Pacey anywhere and had to go back to the Ice House to meet Dawson-she doubted that he had found Pacey either. She lets out a deep sigh as she passes by the video store. Not watching where she's going, Joey suddenly crashes into someone.

JOEY: (mumbling) Oh...Sorry. (She keeps her gaze focused down on the sidewalk as she continues on.)

JEN: Joey! (Joey stops and turns.)

JOEY: Oh, sorry, Jen-I didn't realize it was you. (Jen looks at her oddly.)

JEN: That's okay. (Joey looks at her, and sees Cliff standing with her. Joey returns Jen's odd look.)

CLIFF: Hey, Joey. (she nods to him, acknowledging his presence.)

JEN: Jo, is something wrong? You look like someone's been killed.

JOEY: (shrugging) I'm fine...have either of you guys seen Pacey? (Jen automatically looks concerned.)

JEN: Yeah, I saw him walking into church half an hour ago. Wh...why? Is he okay?

JOEY: Dawson and I have been looking for him all afternoon. (Jen pulls Joey slightly away from Cliff in an effort to keep things private.)

JEN: Joey, is Pacey all right? When I saw him before, he looked horrible. I thought I saw bruises all over his face, and-

JOEY: (looking even more worried.) Listen, don't tell anyone else this...(She eyes Cliff) But Pacey's dad kicked him out on Friday night. Pacey packed up all his things and left.

JEN: (alarmed) *What*?

JOEY: We didn't even know till we went to his house today after he wasn't in school. (She looks at her watch.) I'm supposed to be meeting Dawson right now. We're going to run over to the church-I hope he's still there. (Joey starts to back away.)

JEN: I hope so too-I hope he's going to be okay, I mean-

JOEY: I better hurry. I'll call you as soon as I know anything, okay? (Jen nods, in a bit of a daze. Joey runs off and Jen turns back to Cliff, her face covered with apprehension. Cliff looks at her questioningly.)

CLIFF: What was that all about? (Jen tries to pay attention to him but misses what he said.)

JEN: Huh...What?

CLIFF: Is everything all right?

JEN: No...it isn't...Look, I *really* hate to do this to you, but can I bag? This is really important.

CLIFF: (knowing he can't say no) Sure...

JEN: Thanks-I'm really sorry...maybe we can go see a movie tomorrow night, okay? (Cliff nods, hurt, but trying not to show it.)

CLIFF: Yeah, that sounds good. (Jen smiles.)

JEN: Thank you *so* much, Cliff. I'll see you later! (She races away, not giving him a second thought. He stares after her for a second and lets out a deep sigh, then walks away.)

INT.CHURCH.15 MINUTES LATER

OL: "Stand By Me" by Oasis. Joey and Dawson walk into the church tentatively, holding hands. They both survey the church, searching for a familiar person among the pews. Joey spots him first, sitting in the back corner of the church, as if he's trying to hide from someone. She nudges Dawson and points to him. Dawson nods and they creep over, not quite sure what they're going to say to Pacey now that they've found him. Cautiously, they sit down next to him. He jumps, startled.

PACEY: Joey? Dawson? What are you guys doing here?

DAWSON: Looking for you.

JOEY: (reaching out and touching his face) Oh my god...Pacey, what happened? (Dawson's mouth drops as he takes in Pacey's mess of a face.)

PACEY: Don't look at me that way...I'm fine. Just a little beat up...

JOEY: (stunned) Just a little beat up? Pacey! Who the hell did this to you? Doug?

PACEY: (standing up) I'd rather not talk about this with you guys, okay? Things just...got a little out of hand...between me and my dad...

JOEY: (disbelieving) A little out of hand? Pacey! You look like you've been hit by a bus!

PACEY: Gee, thanks, Jo. Makes me feel so much better.

DAWSON: (quietly) What happened, Pace?

PACEY: (sitting down) I told him he couldn't make me go to military school...and how he makes me feel when he calls me a loser and how he's always treated me like he didn't even want me around...I...pretty much told him everything and anything...

DAWSON: (sadly) And he responded by punching the daylights out of you?

PACEY: Pretty much, yeah. And by throwing me out of the house. Aren't you glad to know that he's the one providing the town with protection? I mean, a chief of police who commits child abuse...you know you're in Capeside now... (Pacey tries to smile, but winces in pain. Before anyone can say anything else, Jen comes running into the church, breathless. She sees them and lets out a sigh of relief.)

JEN: Oh good-he's still here. (She heads over to the trio. Coming closer, she sees Pacey's state and gasps.) Oh my...

PACEY: Please...don't. I can't take all this pity from you guys. (He stands up again, looking towards the door.)

DAWSON: Pacey, come on! This is isn't *pity*.

JEN: We care about you-you can't- (Pacey just walks towards the door and pushes it open, disappearing into the night. They all look at each other for a split second, then race after him.)

EXT.CHURCH.NIGHT

Joey comes outside first, followed by Dawson and then Jen. They all look panicked. To their relief, Pacey is just sitting on the steps. He's crying, this time not even attempting to hide the fact or trying to stop himself. Quickly they all race to his side. Dawson seems especially upset-he's not used to seeing Pacey Witter breakdown in tears. Not knowing what to do, Joey silently wraps her arms around her friend comfortingly. Jen does the same.

JOEY: (whispering) Don't worry, Pacey...everything's gonna be okay. (Dawson joins the "group hug". There is a sense of security to the scene, as Pacey's sobs subside slightly. The shot draws back and then pulls upwards, showing the scene from an arial view, showing the four friends sitting together, yet alone, on the front stone steps of the church.)

END

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