Production #157
Broadcast #A58
Project #SC1068
Due South
"Odds"
Written by Rob Forsyth
Published Draft
60 Pages - Full Script
Due South Production Office -
Phone (416) 531-8680 - Fax (416) 531-8304
Episode #157 - "ODSS" - Published Draft
CAST
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Regular Cast |
Recurring Characters |
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FRASER |
FORD |
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RAY/STAN |
DEETER |
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DIEFENBAKER |
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WELSH |
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HUEY |
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DEWEY |
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FRANCESCA |
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THATCHER |
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FRASER SR. |
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Guest Cast
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Speaking Roles |
Voice Overs |
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ANDY |
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CIVILIAN AID |
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DENNY SCARPA |
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DOORMAN |
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ALEX FARAH |
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JOEY |
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TEEN |
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TOMMY |
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Episode #23 - "ODSS" - Published Draft
SETS
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STANDING SETS |
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RECURRING LOCATIONS |
EPISODE UNIQUE LOCATIONS |
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POLICE STATION |
ALLEY |
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- BULLPEN |
ALLEY BEHIND CONDO |
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- HALLWAY |
BUSY STREET |
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- HOLDING CELL |
CONDO |
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- INTERROGATION ROOM |
- DENNY'S SUITE |
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- MEN'S ROOM |
- ELEVATOR |
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- WELSH'S OFFICE |
- LOBBY |
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- WOMEN'S WASHROOM |
- UPSTAIRS HALLWAY |
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JOEY'S APARTMENT |
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CANADIAN CONSULATE |
MOTEL |
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- FOYER |
- ANOTHER ROOM |
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- FRASER'S OFFICE |
- PARKING LOT |
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- ROOM |
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OLDSTYLE HOTEL |
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- COP'S ROOM |
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- FED'S ROOM |
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- LEDGE |
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- POKER SUITE |
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- ROOF |
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- STREET |
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- UPSTAIRS HALLWAY |
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RAY'S CAR |
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SURVEILLANCE VAN |
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SCRIPT DAYS |
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Scenes |
Day/Night |
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1 - 36 |
DAY ONE |
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37 - 45 |
NIGHT ONE |
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46 - 51 |
DAY TWO |
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52 - 64 |
NIGHT TWO |
PROLOGUE
1 INT. MOTEL - ROOM -- MORNING (DAY ONE)
CLOSE on a card table. A GAMBLER, ANDY, tosses his cards into the center.
ANDY
That's it, I'm gutted.
PULL BACK to reveal FOUR MEN and a woman who is more than beautiful, she's charismatic. We'll come to know her as DENNY SCARPA. All crowd a card table in a seedy motel room.
RAY, posing as security, dressed in a suit, watches over the table. Everyone except Andy has a significant pile of cash on the table in front of him. Denny's pile is slightly larger than the rest.
Andy stands, takes his suit coat off the back of his chair, puts it on. The cardplayers look haggard, like they've been at the table all night. Denny looks fresh, clearly in control. She grasps Andy's hand, is warm and charming enough to make him forget he's just lost his shirt.
DENNY
Night Andy.
ANDY
Been an off week, month. . . hell, year.
DENNY
(smiles) Half moon usually screws me up. Tonight it's lucky. Go figure. (beat)
Next time, okay.
ANDY
Yeah.
As Andy moves towards the door he shakes Ray's hand, greasing his palm.
RAY
Thank you, sir.
Ray pockets the cash like a seasoned pro, crosses to the window on the other side of the room with Denny's PEKINGESE, named ANTE, on his heels. Denny notices.
DENNY
Ante. Come here.
Ante runs to Denny and jumps in her lap. Denny looks at the others.
DENNY (CONT'D)
She's good luck.
2. EXT MOTEL - PARKING LOT -- MORNING
Andy walks out the second floor motel room door, descends an exterior flight of stairs into the parking lot, walks to a new, sleek, BMW, gets in and drives away. As he roars off his headlights rake a large black van in the parking lot.
3. INT. SURVEILLANCE VAN -- MORNING
DEWEY
One down. (a beat) We ought to can this, the guy's not going to show.
FRASER
Well, the game's not over yet.
DEWEY
(listening to his headset) They're wrapping it up now.
Dewey sits back a little.
DEWEY (CONT'D)
Gotta be what, a hundred poker games going on in the city tonight. If. . . If
our guy is going to take one down it could be any one of them.
FRASER
But you believed it to be this one.
DEWEY
Yeah, but I could be wrong. He could decide to take the night off, go out on a
date, have some fun while we're here keeping the vinyl warm. (a beat) Man, I
hate stakeouts.
FRASER SR
The man's an idiot.
Fraser looks over, sees Fraser Sr's head poking around the front seat. Fraser shakes his head.
FRASER SR (CONT'D)
Out all night in the bitter cold in the company of good men. . .
4. INT. MOTEL - ANOTHER ROOM -- MORNING
FRASER SR (O.S.)
. . . waiting for the moment of pure adrenaline when that crazed trapper comes
over the ridge. What could be better than that?
The room is dark, lit only by a faint light from a curtained window. In fact, we can't even tell it's a motel room. A man we'll come to know as Joey is just pulling a black balaclava over his head. He's dressed in a black jump suit and is almost invisible in the darkness. He racks the slide on a big automatic.
5 INT. MOTEL - ROOM -- MORNING
DENNY gathers scattered cards into a deck, shuffles expertly.
ANGLE WIDENS -- takes in Ray, back against the wall beside a second story window.
DENNY
Last chance to catch up, boys.
She starts to deal.
6 INT. MOTEL - ANOTHER ROOM -- MORNING
Joey attaches something to the wall of the room, steps away and picks up a small control button.
7 INT. SURVEILLANCE VAN -- MORNING
Dewey and the technician are looking bored. Fraser is looking alert. Fraser Sr. is wiggling a little in his seat.
FRASER SR.
Of course, it can get a little dull if you don't move around. Buck and I always
did calisthenics on a stakeout. (a beat) Maybe a few sit ups wouldn't hurt.
FRASER
Sit ups?
Dewey and the technician look at him.
DEWEY
Sit ups?
FRASER
Uh. . . Just thinking about abdominal muscles.
Dewey and the technician exchange puzzled looks. Fraser Sr. has disappeared into the front seat. It sounds like he might somehow be doing sit ups.
8 INT. MOTEL - ANOTHER ROOM -- MORNING
One wall of the room suddenly blows open. The room fills with plaster dust and debris. Ray is knocked off his feet. He shouts into his lapel mike.
RAY
It's going down.
10 INT. SURVEILLANCE VAN -- MORNING
Dewey and the technician both rip off their headphones, their ears ringing from the blast.
DEWEY
Go! Go! Go!
Fraser and Dief are already scrambling out of the van.
11 INT. MOTEL - ROOM -- MORNING
Chaos. The players are panicked the room is filled with dust. Joey rushes in through the hole in the wall, his gun in his hand.
JOEY
Everybody down. Down on the floor.
Ray has his gun out, but Denny moves between him and Joey, blocking his shot. Joey sees the gun, presses his weapon into Denny.
JOEY (CONT'D)
(to Ray) Toss it.
Ray and Joey lock eyes. Ray doesn't budge. Joey fires a round into the wall above Ray's head. Nobody moves. Ray tosses his gun into the corner.
Joey pulls a bag out of his coat, shoves it into Denny's hands, nods to the money.
JOEY (CONT'D)
In here. All of it.
Denny loads the cash. Joey moves for the window where Ray stands, pushing Denny in front of him He motions with his gun for Ray to clear the window. Ray moves.
12 EXT. MOTEL -- MORNING
Fraser pounds up the stairs toward the motel room. Dewey is far behind.
13 INT. MOTEL - ROOM -- MORNING
Joey pushes Denny aside but Ray grabs the back of Joey's hood. He yanks it off. Denny is face to face with Joey, Ray tries to grab him, can't. Joey jumps out the second story window, uses an awning to break his fall onto the pavement. Fraser bursts through the door. Followed closely by Dewey.
Fraser crosses the room, taking the table in stride. He leaps across the three gamblers with Dief on his heels, looks out the window.
FRASER'S POV
Joey picks himself off the pavement, runs for his car.
RESUME SCENE
RAY
Fraser. I wouldn't. . .
Fraser leaps out the window
RAY (CONT'D)
. . . do that.
Dief looks, makes the jump.
14 EXT. MOTEL -- MORNING
Fraser slides off the awning, tries to grab the edge and drop. His hands miss their mark. He lands hard, rolls, stays down for a beat, clearly hurt. He pulls himself up, gets painfully to his feet and runs toward Joey.
Joey is in a car, peeling away. Fraser in pursuit, Dewey rounds the corner of the building, draws his weapon, fires repeatedly at the tires of the departing vehicle.
Fraser Sr, crosses to them, adjusting his hat on the fly.
FRASER SR.
That was your man, son?
FRASER
Yes.
Fraser and Dief in the street, looking up at Denny in the second story window.
Ray crosses the parking lot to Fraser.
RAY
Did you get the plate?
FRASER
No.
Ray follows Fraser's line of vision to the window.
Fraser Sr adjusts his hat.
FRASER SR
Another night wasted.
Fraser ignores his father, looks past him to. . .
FRASER'S POV
Denny and Ante in the window.
RESUME SCENE
Fraser Sr turns, follows Fraser's eye line.
FRASER SR (CONT'D)
Well not entirely wasted.
Ray looks at Fraser.
RAY
You all right?
FRASER
Yes. I mean, no. (hand goes to his back) I may have pulled something.
RAY
Fraser from the second floor. . . there's always the option of using the
stairs.
FRASER
Understood.
Ray notices neither Fraser, or Dief have taken their eyes off the window.
THEIR POV
Denny and Ante. From a distance, Denny looks almost vulnerable with Ante
cradled tight in her arms.
FRASER (V.O.) (CONT'D)
That's one fine looking animal.
RESUME SCENE
Dief BARKS.
END OF PROLOGUE
ACT ONE
15 INT. MOTEL - ROOM -- DAY
CRIME SCENE -- taped and marked. FORENSICS scoops the slug out of the wall, bags it. TECHS dust for fingerprints.
16 EXT. MOTEL - PARKING LOT -- DAY
Dewey and the Technician pull away in the surveillance van.
A UNIFORM COP loads the handcuffed gamblers including Denny and Ante into a police van. Dief WHINES, tries to follow Ante.
FRASER
Will you grow up? She's half your age, not to mention the obvious size
difference.
Dief GROANS, looks up at Fraser -- so what?
RAY
(into cellular) Yes, sir. I was just. . .
Ray holds the phone away from his ear, looks at Fraser.
WELSH (O.S.)
Maybe if we brought in the swat unit you coulda made the arrest.
17 INT. POLICE STATION - BULLPEN -- DAY
Welsh at his desk, phone to his ear, veins standing out on his forehead, rants.
WELSH
Six weeks, we've had this in the works. Finally get a line on a game, pinpoint
the location. Now we gotta start all over again. (beat) Just get in here
Vecchio.
Welsh slams down the phone, moves to the door.
WELSH (CONT'D)
Miss Vecchio.
Franny pops her head in. Welsh takes in the shoulder holster strapped over her t-shirt.
FRANCESCA
Yes, sir.
WELSH
What's that?
FRANCESCA
A holster.
WELSH
You got a license?
Franny opens the gun pocket pulls out the gun.
FRANCESCA
I'm just trying it out, you know, sort of as a preamble to wearing heat. I'm
taking self defense.
She aims the gun into the wastebasket, squeezes the trigger, letting go a stream of water.
WELSH
You wear that you're asking for trouble. Slim chance the other guy is packing a
water pistol. (beat) What's wrong with pepper spray?
FRANCESCA
I just thought it might be easier. You know than blinding some guy and kicking
him the baaa. . . lower area and everything.
WELSH
Blowing their brains out is nicer?
Francesca looks at him, hesitates a moment, then makes up her mind.
FRANCESCA
Actually, I got it for another reason.
WELSH
What? Style?
FRANCESCA
I was thinking of maybe going to the academy.
Welsh SIGHS.
WELSH
You're serious? You want to be a cop.
FRANCESCA
I'm just thinking about it. Trying to resolve the uniform issue.
WELSH
Uniform issue?
FRANCESCA
(leans in) There's something about the way my head is shaped, can't wear a hat.
My first communion. . . I was the only girl at Our Lady of Immaculate
Conception who couldn't wear a veil.
WELSH
Well that'd be a problem
FRANCESCA
Yeah, but if I can work it out, I was wondering if you could maybe steer me in
the right direction.
WELSH
Well I can give you some advice on getting into the academy. But I can't help
you with the hat thing.
FRANCESCA
Oh, that's fine. No problem. . .
She heads for the door.
FRANCESCA (CONT'D)
Oh, Lieutenant, please don't tell anyone else about this. In case it doesn't
work out and all.
Welsh nods as he watches her leave.
18 INT. RAY'S CAR -- TRAVELING SHOT -- DAY
Fraser and Ray dead tired, disappointed.
RAY
We work this case for weeks, in the last five minutes. . . the take down, we
blow it.
FRASER
We did everything we could. We just didn't anticipate that business with the
wall.
RAY
(shrugs) Things happen. We're supposed to anticipate.
Fraser changes his position in his seat, trying to get comfortable. Ray notices.
FRASER
You can't always expect a perfect outcome.
Ray looks over at Fraser.
RAY
Want to go to the hospital?
FRASER
It's nothing.
RAY
You like her, don't you?
FRASER
She seems pleasant.
RAY
She's a card player. Think you can read a woman like that you're nuts.
FRASER
I can read her, Ray.
RAY
You are nuts.
Off Fraser
19 INT. POLICE STATION - INTERROGATION ROOM -- DAY
Denny and Ante are shown into the interrogation room by Dewey. She sits down at the desk, crosses her legs, kicks off a high heeled black slingback. Dewey takes in the shoes, the legs.
DEWEY
Would you like a tea or a coffee?
DENNY
(smiles) I'd love coffee. Black.
Dewey is about to leave when Denny puts her cuffed hands in front of her on the table, smiles at him.
DENNY (CONT'D)
Don't know if I'll be able to drink it with these. . .
Dewey looks at her for a long beat, she holds his gaze. Finally he walks towards her with the keys.
20 INT. POLICE STATION - WELSH'S OFFICE -- DAY
CLOSE ON -- Welsh.
WELSH
Where is she now?
WIDEN TO -- Ray, Fraser and Dief in front of him.
RAY
Interview one. She's not being helpful. She says she didn't see the guy.
WELSH
We offer her a deal on the gambling charges?
RAY
Didn't move her. Guess she wants to do more time.
Ray hands Welsh Danny's sheet.
WELSH
Assault. Something went real wrong in a poker game.
Ray nods.
WELSH (CONT'D)
Not easy to scare Denny Scarpa. A guy I know, his cousin sat at one of her
first tables. Musta been ten years ago. . . even back then she was untouchable.
RAY
She says we almost got her killed.
FRASER
Well, she does have a point.
RAY
I think she's mad because she didn't make me.
WELSH
Point is. . . if she says she didn't see this guy -- she's not a material
witness.
RAY
She was looking right at him.
WELSH
Why would she lie?
RAY
Hiding something.
FRASER
Frightened?
Welsh grabs the suit jacket off the back of his chair, starts putting it on.
WELSH
I'll talk to her.
As Fraser turns for the door his back spasms.
FRASER
Ouch.
Welsh looks at him.
WELSH
Put your hands palm down on the desk. Bend from the waist.
As Welsh demonstrates a back exercise, Fraser follows.
FRASER
Good.
Francesca pops her head in, takes in Fraser and Welsh bent over Welsh's desk, puts her head to one side to see what they're doing. She's still sporting the holster.
WELSH
Yes, Miss Vecchio.
Ford and Deeter are right behind Franny in the doorway.
FRANCESCA
Agents Ford and Deeter here to see you, sir.
Welsh's face sours.
WELSH
Great.
Welsh puts his head up to see Ford and Deeter in front of him.
FORD
Want us to come back after yoga, Lieutenant?
Fraser straightens abruptly at the sound of Ford's voice.
WELSH
What?
DEETER
We need to talk to Denny Scarpa.
WELSH
When we're finished.
Ford hands over an official sheet of paper.
FORD
It's been cleared.
Off Welsh.
21 INT. POLICE STATION - INTERROGATION ROOM -- DAY
Denny sits at the table with Ante in her lap wowing Huey and Dewey with expert card handling. Her cuffs are on the table in front of her.
HUEY
I play a little poker.
DEWEY
Me too.
DENNY
Of course. Every Chicago cop plays a little poker. (a beat) Very little.
DEWEY
Hey.
DENNY
Just one woman's opinion.
She fans the deck at Huey. He picks a card. She picks a higher card. Dewey draws. Denny draws, higher. On and on.
DEWEY
Nobody's that lucky.
DENNY
You're saying I cheat, detective?
Deeter and Ford slip into the room. Huey and Dewey, glare at them.
HUEY
It's our room. Check the board.
Welsh appears in the door.
WELSH
Give them five minutes, Jack.
Huey and Dewey stand, exit. Slam the door.
Deeter and Ford walk over to Denny.
FORD
Denny.
Denny looks irritated.
DENNY
Who the hell are you?
DEETER
Couple guys who can get you out of here.
DENNY
What do you get out of it?
FORD
Glad you asked.
22 INT. POLICE STATION - HALLWAY -- DAY
Ford, Deeter and Denny come out of the interrogation room.
FORD
(to Deeter) Hang on to her. I'll square it with Welsh.
DENNY
Mind if I use the ladies?
Ford heads off to speak to Welsh, Deeter waits until Denny enters the washroom, sits down on the bench.
23 INT. POLICE STATION - WELSH'S OFFICE -- DAY
Ray, Fraser, Welsh and Dief. Welsh hangs up the phone, looks at them.
WELSH
Official word. . . Feds want her, they take her. Nothing we can do.
RAY
Guy who took down that game shot a security guard last week. Doesn't that mean
anything to them.
WELSH
Feds got their own agenda.
Ray, Fraser and Welsh look up as Ford sticks his head in.
FORD
We cut a deal.
WELSH
Imagine our surprise.
Ford smiles.
FORD
She's got a game set up with Alex Farah.
Welsh looks surprised.
WELSH
The Alex Farah. Top guy on your ten most wanted list.
Ford nods.
FORD
Yeah, wanted for extortion and stock market fraud and murder. He's been out of
the country for years, but he's coming in for the game and we're going to be
there.
FRASER
Sounds like a dangerous man. Maybe she could simply tell you where the game is
and. . .
FORD
(interrupting) The lady's the attraction. He doesn't want to play poker, he
wants to play poker with the best, with Denny Scarpa. She doesn't show, he
doesn't show. (a beat) No way we can afford to let that happen.
He smiles again.
FORD (CONT'D)
Ciao fellows.
He heads out.
RAY
I hate that guy.
24 INT. POLICE STATION - WOMEN'S WASHROOM -- DAY
Denny walks over to the sink, looks in the mirror, smoothes her eyebrows, thinks about her next move.
The door opens, a CIVILIAN AID walks into the can wearing a bike helmet and fanny pack that's a fold up rain poncho.
DENNY
Hi.
CIVILIAN AID
Hi.
The aid takes off the helmet and the fanny pack, sets them both on the counter.
CIVILIAN AID (CONT'D)
(adjusts her hair) Feels good to get that thing off.
DENNY
Traffic bad?
As the woman enters a stall, locks the door.
CIVILIAN AID
A cop cut me off. You believe that?
DENNY
Uh huh.
Denny removes the rain poncho from the pouch, puts it on, sticks the helmet on, steps out of her shoes, exits in stocking feet, the rain poncho almost reaching the floor.
25 INT. POLICE STATION - HALLWAY -- DAY
Denny peeks out the washroom door, waits until she can blend into the flow of traffic in the hall. She exits, moves past Deeter who sits on the bench.
Deeter catches a glimpse of Denny's legs as she rounds the corner towards the front desk.
Deeter's attention is grabbed by Ford.
FORD
We're all set. Where's Scarpa?
Deeter looks at him. It hits him that Denny just walked past him. He jumps up, flings open the women's washroom door just as the civilian aid exits the stall and realizes her helmet is missing.
CIVILIAN AID
Where's. . . .
Deeter looks, sees Denny's shoes left where she stepped out of them. He's off like a shot down the hallway towards the front desk.
26 INT. POLICE STATION - WELSH'S OFFICE -- DAY
Welsh, Ray, Fraser and Dief. Welsh looks at Ray.
RAY
She saw his face. I'd bet my shield on it.
WELSH
She's gone detective. Move on.
RAY
She's played in every game he's hit.
WELSH
They're working together?
FRASER
Not necessarily. I understand she's played in every big money game in town.
WELSH
So our guy's got the inside track on the blue chip games.
Francesca opens the door, holds up Ante. Dief SMILES, gets frisky.
FRANCESCA
Scarpa got away. The feds let her go to the bathroom and she. . .
Welsh, Ray and Fraser are out the door.
Dief BARKS. Franny puts Ante down. Dief walks cautiously over, SNIFFS appropriately.
27 INT. POLICE STATION - BULLPEN -- DAY
Ford moves quickly across the bullpen, is about to pick up the phone when Welsh, Fraser and Ray move across the room towards him.
WELSH
Want me to call the bureau or can you handle it yourselves?
Ford glares at Welsh. Welsh turns away from Ford.
WELSH (CONT'D)
(to Fraser and Ray) Find her.
RAY
How?
28 EXT. BUSY STREET - DAY
Dief follows Ante, who walks briskly through PEDESTRIANS, head lowered, sniffing.
Fraser some distance back, following.
On the street Ray tails them in his car on the wrong side of the road, CHERRY FLASHING, window rolled down.
Ray looks at Fraser -- intent, engrossed.
Fraser does a stretch to straighten out his back.
RAY
You think this is a good idea, Fraser? Following the dog?
FRASER
It's a lead, Ray. All we have.
Oncoming vehicles swerve to avoid Ray's car. HORNS BLARE. Ray responds appropriately.
Up ahead the dogs disappear around a corner.
Fraser moves to the corner, looks. . .
FRASER'S POV
The dogs are gone.
RESUME SCENE
Fraser moves down the street, bends down, sniffs a hydrant.
Ray pulls alongside.
RAY
I'm gonna puke.
FRASER
Dief and I have been together a lot of years. He's got a distinctive odor.
A TEEN walks an ancient pit bull on a lead, the dog sees Fraser's red coat, the hydrant, can't distinguish, raises his leg.
But Fraser's sees it coming, before he's soaked, he rolls for cover, ending up flat out on the sidewalk. He turns to see Ray shaking his head. The teen, and Strider look down at Fraser.
TEEN
You all right, mister? Strider didn't mean nothing by it. His eyes are gone. .
. so's his bladder.
Fraser pulls himself painfully to his feet.
FRASER
No harm done. (a beat) This way, Ray.
He and Ray moves on hurriedly.
29 EXT. CONDO -- DAY
A MAN walks out of a building, Ante scoots through his legs into. . .
30 INT. CONDO - LOBBY -- DAY
. . . the lobby. A WOMAN exits the elevator, holds the door for Ante who makes a bee-line. Fraser and Dief follow into. . .
31 INT. CONDO - ELEVATOR -- DAY
. . . the elevator. Fraser presses the door open button, waits for Ray.
INTERCUT -- CONDO LOBBY
The DOORMAN, full uniform, bad attitude, hassles Ray as he moves towards the elevator.
DOORMAN
Can't park there.
ELEVATOR -- as Ray and the Doorman step in Ray flashes his SHIELD.
RAY
Chicago P.D.
DOORMAN
You can't park there.
FRASER
(looks at Ante) I wonder what floor?
DOORMAN
Ten.
RAY
The dog lives here?
DOORMAN
Yep. (to Ante) Hey twerp.
RAY
What? With?
DOORMAN
Denise Black.
RAY
Denny Scarpa, Denise Black, whatever.
DOORMAN
Legs up to her armpits.
Ray looks at Fraser.
RAY
Could be her.
DOORMAN
I don't think she's in.
RAY
That's okay. We'll leave a note.
They exit the elevator leaving the doorman behind.
32 INT. CONDO - UPSTAIRS HALLWAY -- DAY
Ray and Fraser follow the dogs down the hallway.
FRASER
We aren't really going to leave a note.
RAY
No we're going to break in. . . look through her personal possessions without a
warrant and I need to use the can. . .
33 INT. CONDO - DENNY'S SUITE -- DAY
CLOSE ON -- several pairs of beautiful shoes. PULL BACK to reveal Fraser looking down at them. A toilet flushes behind him and Ray comes out of the bathroom. He looks around the almost bare room. Aside from the shoes, a Thermarest, a cardboard box, a suitcase, a comforter are the only obvious items. Fraser picks up one of the shoes, sniffs it.
RAY
You can take something too far, Fraser. You know that.
FRASER
Worn recently.
RAY
(indicates positions) You're here. . . okay. You're over here doin' insoles. .
. you're somebody sick.
FRASER
These are her shoes.
RAY
Oh, I think we got the right place.
FRASER
Scarpa. Scarpe. Ci sono un paio di scarpe in ventrina che me piacciono. (for
Ray) Scarpe is Italian for shoes.
RAY
Denny Scarpa alias, Denise Black. AKA lady shoes.
A wave at the shoes.
RAY (CONT'D)
For obvious reasons.
FRASER (V.O.)
She wears size seven, double A.
Ray and Fraser are both very focused on the shoes. Dief and Ante are playing in the background. Ray glances at them.
RAY
True love's never easy.
Fraser looks back at Dief and Ante.
FRASER
Not what I would have expected, but Diefenbaker is a mature wolf. I have to
assume he knows what he's doing.
Ray nods.
RAY
So I guess we stake it out. She's gotta come back soon.
Fraser nods. They head for the door.
34 INT. CONDO - UPSTAIRS HALLWAY -- DAY
Denny is getting off the elevator. As she gets off a man we see is Joey comes out of the stairwell to her left. He's wearing a hat pulled down low over his eyes. She starts to turn toward him just as Ray, Fraser, Ante and Dief come out of her apartment. Ante yaps excitedly and runs toward Denny.
RAY
Denny.
She turns and looks at them, briefly considers getting into the elevator, then deliberately steps between them and Joey.
DENNY
I didn't expect to see cops here.
At the word cops, Joey turns around quickly and heads back toward the stairwell. Fraser is already moving toward him.
FRASER
(to Joey) Excuse me.
Joey quickens his pace. Ray sees him too.
RAY
Police, hold it!
Joey turns quickly, a gun in his hand.
RAY (CONT'D)
Gun.
He hits the ground. Fraser dives, shoving Denny aside as the gun goes off and Joey ducks into the stairwell. Fraser picks himself off Denny.
FRASER
Terribly sorry, ma'am.
He hurries into the stairwell. Ray runs up to Denny his handcuffs out.
RAY
Yeah, I'm real sorry too.
He slaps the cuffs on her.
RAY (CONT'D)
But I want you here when we get back.
He runs off after Fraser.
35 EXT. ALLEY BEHIND CONDO -- DAY
Ray and Fraser race into the alley. Joey is nowhere in sight.
RAY
Damn.
An engine roars from behind them in the alley and a car, driven by Joey roars toward them. Ray turns to fire, but the car is coming too fast. Fraser suddenly disappears straight up.
RAY (CONT'D)
Fraser!
Fraser's hand sweeps down and yanks Ray up into the air. The car roars past.
ANGLE ON RAY AND FRASER
Fraser's hanging onto a fire escape with one hand, and holding Ray up with the other. After the car has past he drops Ray who hits with a crash and a shout.
FRASER
Oh, dear.
He lets go and drops to the alley. Ray leaps to his feet.
RAY
Damn it Fraser, if you're gonna drop me, say something first like "Ray,
I'm gonna drop you."
FRASER
Sorry, Ray, with my sore back it was difficult to hang on.
RAY
Yeah, well. I'll let it go this time. I guess. (a beat) You get the plate?
Fraser shakes his head.
FRASER
I was otherwise occupied.
Ray shakes his head.
RAY
I have to do everything myself don't I.
FRASER
Then you got the plate?
Ray shakes his head gloomily.
RAY
No, Fraser, I didn't get the plate. (a beat) But I got the girl.
He turns toward the apartment building. Denny Scarpa is standing in the fire exit doorway, her hands cuffed together.
END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO
36 EXT. ALLEY BEHIND CONDO -- DAY
Ray and Fraser arguing. Denny is handcuffed in the back of Ray's car a short distance away.
FRASER
We have to take her in for her own good.
RAY
For her own good? How do you figure that?
FRASER
We know this man is a killer. He knows she can identify him. Perhaps he came
here to eliminate a witness. We need to take her in to protect her.
RAY
We take her in, she goes to the Feds. They've got their own plans, and
protecting her isn't going to be a top priority, I can promise you that.
FRASER
And you don't have your own plans for her, Ray?
RAY
Okay, I admit it. I want to make my case. Is that a crime?
FRASER
No, but. . .
RAY
I make my case we put away the guy who might be trying to kill her. Right.
Fraser nods.
RAY (CONT'D)
So she's safe, right.
FRASER
Well, yes, but until then we'd have to keep her in a safe place.
RAY
Yeah, and I know just the spot.
Fraser looks at him curiously.
37 EXT. CANADIAN CONSULATE - ESTABLISHING -- NIGHT (NIGHT ONE)
38 INT. CONSULATE - FRASER'S OFFICE -- NIGHT
Fraser is holding a set of red underwear.
FRASER
Uh. . . Detective Vecchio will be here shortly.
DENNY
So I'll be nice and comfortable when he gets here.
FRASER
Well, yes, I suppose, but this is all I could find and I don't know if they're
really appropriate apparel for. . .
Denny takes them from him.
DENNY
They're perfect, Thank you.
39 INT. CONSULATE - FOYER -- NIGHT
Fraser backs out, closing the door. Starts, as his father comes up behind him, takes off his Stetson.
FRASER SR
Careful. You don't have the experience to hook up with a woman like that, son.
Fraser moves to Turnbull's desk, sits, starts working on a house of cards. Dief curls up at his feet.
FRASER
Don't you have work to do?
FRASER SR
(glances towards Fraser's office) Hard to concentrate all of a sudden.
Fraser Sr. mops his brow.
FRASER
She's an important witness in one of Ray's cases.
FRASER SR
You loaned her your underwear, son.
FRASER
That's beside the point. She has pertinent information and she may be in
danger. It's my duty to help.
FRASER SR
You're the one who's in danger. . . (beat) Lilly Raintree. . .
Fraser looks at his father as Fraser Sr puts his hat back on.
FRASER SR (CONT'D)
My first posting. A mining town outside Dawson. Lilly turned up and before you
could turn around she had every dime in the camp sewed into her petticoats.
There was a near riot. I had to arrest her for her own protection.
Fraser glares at him.
FRASER SR (CONT'D)
Before your mother.
Fraser softens.
FRASER
Well there, you see it's a very similar situation and. . .
FRASER SR
(interrupting) I was taking her into Dawson and along the way we got into a
friendly game of cards. (a beat) I had to borrow money from Ruddy Peters to buy
back my tunic and Stetson. Couldn't get enough for the boots. Had to spend the
winter with my feet wrapped in sealskin.
FRASER
Does this have a point?
FRASER SR
Sealskin's no substitute for a sturdy pair of boots.
Fraser rolls his eyes. He looks toward where a key turns in the lock.
Thatcher, slightly disheveled, wild eyed and sexy in a little black dress comes through the door.
THATCHER
Fraser, Fraser, Fraser. You're off duty and you're still in uniform. Can't ever
relax, can you?
Fraser glances nervously toward his own office door as Thatcher trips towards her office. Outside a HORN BLARES.
THATCHER (CONT'D)
(re: horn) The Spanish Ambassador. We've just been for tapas. He's so hot
blooded.
From inside her office, officious all of a sudden.
THATCHER (V.O.) (CONT'D)
I've got a high level meeting at nine hundred hours at the Spanish Embassy.
Thatcher comes out of her office toting a bottle of expensive wine.
THATCHER (CONT'D)
Don't expect me until later in the day, Constable Fraser.
FRASER
Fine, sir.
She SLAMS the door.
FRASER (CONT'D)
Good night, sir.
A hand reaches over his shoulder. Takes a card, drops it lightly into place on the card roof.
Fraser looks down at Denny's arm, at his long johns.
FRASER (CONT'D)
Thank you, kindly.
WIDEN TO --
Denny in Fraser's underwear. She collapses the card house with her finger, gathers the cards, shuffles them. She fans the deck towards Fraser. He selects a card, so does she. His card is higher. Again. His is higher.
Faster: again and again, his card is higher.
DENNY
Very, very good! An enunciator and a numerator.
FRASER
You handle the cards well.
DENNY
It's what I do. (a beat) But you're winning.
Ante trots out of Fraser's office, walks over to Dief, curls up in Dief's lap. Dief smiles.
DENNY (CONT'D)
Looks cozy, doesn't it?
Fraser stands abruptly, knocks over a lamp. Moves to catch it, but his stiff back stops him.
Denny catches it, rights it.
Fraser grimaces a little from the back pain. Denny moves in behind him, touches his back.
DENNY (CONT'D)
Is this where it hurts?
FRASER
(straightening at her touch) Yes.
DENNY
Right here.
FRASER
Yes. (a beat) You're very good.
DENNY
Used to do this for my Dad when he'd been working all night. My kid brother
too. (a beat) Lots of bad backs in my family. That's why I got into cards. No
heavy lifting.
Fraser closes his eyes, feels weak in the knees. When he opens his eyes his father is smiling at him.
FRASER SR
Strip down son, into your skivvies. Have some fun. I would.
DENNY
Relax.
FRASER
You would not.
Denny massages Fraser's back.
DENNY
I would.
FRASER SR
Lilly Raintree to a tee.
Fraser's face is pure ecstasy. He looks down at his dad's grin, tries to recover.
FRASER
You're enjoying this?
DENNY
(massages more) Uh huh.
FRASER SR
It's like the time you hauled in the 45 pounder at the Rouste Route fishing
derby. (beat) The look on your face. It's like you've died and gone to heaven.
FRASER
Not exactly.
DENNY
More to the left?
Fraser closes his eyes.
In the hallway there's a POUNDING at the consulate door. Fraser opens his eyes.
FRASER
Shouldn't we get that?
DENNY
(continues the massage) You're kidding, right?
More POUNDING. Then the door bursts open.
FRASER
Hello, Ray.
Denny drops her hands as Fraser moves toward the door.
Fraser Sr. looks up at Denny, sees disappointment cross her face.
FRASER SR
(to Denny) You've got a tough row to hoe. (beat) Lilly liked a challenge too.
By god I gave her one.
ANGLE ON FRASER AT THE DOOR
Ray enters, followed by a mousy little man. Ray looks hard at Fraser.
RAY
This is Tommy, our sketch artist.
Tommy nods to Fraser. He's looking around the consulate foyer.
TOMMY
This is nice. Really nice.
FRASER
Thank you.
TOMMY
Real wood and everything.
RAY
(to Fraser) Tommy doesn't get out much.
He points to Denny
RAY (CONT'D)
There's your witness.
Tommy squints nearsightedly at Denny for a moment.
TOMMY
The red?
RAY
Right.
Tommy moves off.
RAY (CONT'D)
He's blind as a bat. But damn good with a pencil.
Fraser nods.
RAY (CONT'D)
Ballistics was positive on the gun. The guy who was shooting at us is the guy
who killed the Security guard.
Ray's taking in Denny, Fraser's underwear and Fraser. Fraser shifts guiltily.
RAY (CONT'D)
Must be itchy without them.
FRASER
I have several pairs, Ray.
Denny and Tommy sit down.
40 INT. CONSULATE - FOYER -- LATER
CLOSE ON A SKETCH
As Tommy applies the finishing touches. It doesn't look much like Joey.
ANGLE ON RAY AND FRASER
They're looking over Tommy's shoulder.
FRASER
I only got a glimpse, and he had on a hat, but I thought his hair was dark.
DENNY
Definitely blonde.
Denny looks over at the sketch.
DENNY (CONT'D)
That's him. It's perfect.
Tommy beams. Fraser looks a little disturbed.
RAY
Get that out on the wire right away.
Tommy nods and heads for the door. Denny looks at Ray and Fraser for a moment.
DENNY
Well, good night.
She gets up and heads into Fraser's office.
DENNY (CONT'D)
Ante, Dief, come on.
Both dogs follow her to Fraser's office.
FRASER AND RAY
Good night.
Fraser watches her go. At the door of the office she looks at him.
She closes the door.
RAY
You sure you know what you're doing here?
Fraser looks at him.
FRASER
Yes.
Ray looks at him.
RAY
I'm just saying she's not the little girl in the igloo next door.
FRASER
Understood.
Fraser nods.
RAY
(loses his train of thought) Where are you going to sleep?
FRASER
On the floor. (beat) You were saying?
RAY
I don't trust her.
FRASER
Still think she's protecting this man?
RAY
(shrugs) Could be her boyfriend.
FRASER
We don't have proof.
RAY
Would you be so diplomatic if she wasn't a beautiful woman you happen to like?
FRASER
Certainly.
Ray looks at him for a moment.
RAY
Awful thing is I believe you.
41 INT. CONSULATE - FRASER'S OFFICE -- NIGHT
Denny looks down at Dief and Ante curled up. She turns off the light, climbs into the cot. She hears a TAP at the window, turns. . .
DENNY'S POV
Joey is staring in at her.
RESUME SCENE
Denny looks over at Joey in the window, jumps out of bed just as the room vibrates with the POUNDING from down the hall. She looks at the door, then back at the window. . .
DENNY'S POV
Joey is gone.
42 INT. CONSULATE - FOYER -- NIGHT
Fraser throws open the door as Ray draws his weapon. They're face to face with Ford. Deeter steps out of the shadows.
FORD
Where is she?
Ray looks at Fraser.
RAY
(shrugs) No idea.
FORD
That's why you needed a sketch artist tonight?
RAY
I love art.
Behind him Denny steps out of Fraser's office. Ray follows Ford's eye line, looks at Denny.
RAY (CONT'D)
Oh.
FORD
You're in real trouble, Vecchio.
Ray looks nervous. Denny takes Fraser aside and speaks quietly to him.
43 INT. POLICE STATION - WELSH'S OFFICE -- NIGHT
Ford is thumping on Welsh's desk. Fraser, Deeter, and Ray look on. Ray is looking a little sheepish. We might see Denny outside in the bullpen.
DEETER
We're filing charges.
WELSH
What charges?
FORD
Harbouring a fugitive for starters.
WELSH
She's our fugitive. Maybe he was just holding her.
DEETER
In the Canadian Consulate?
WELSH
Unorthodox, but. . .
FORD
I don't want to hear about it. We're taking her right now.
WELSH
Or what?
DEETER
We'll take your boy here instead.
Ray glares at them.
RAY
Boy?
He takes a step forward. Fraser restrains him.
FRASER
I think there may be a solution to this, gentlemen.
DEETER
What?
FRASER
Well, I've spoken to Ms. Scarpa and she's agreed to work with you on one
condition.
FORD
What's that?
FRASER
She wants me in the game to protect her.
FORD
You?
Everyone stares at Fraser.
RAY
You can't even play poker.
FRASER
I'm sure I can, Ray.
Everyone stares at him.
END OF ACT TWO
ACT THREE
44 INT. POLICE STATION - BULLPEN -- NIGHT
CLOSE ON -- Ray deals, fast efficient.
WIDEN TO -- hang dog faces, like they've spent too many nights around tables. Huey, Ray, Welsh and Fraser sit around a desk.
RAY
It's poker, Fraser. (beat) You can't learn it in one night.
FRASER
I memorized one hundred and seventy nine pages of the R encyclopedia in one
night. Of course my chances of survival at the time were slim and I had to keep
my mind occupied. . .
WELSH
Say what?
RAY
Don't ask.
Fraser snaps a single card face down in the centre.
RAY (CONT'D)
That's the burn.
Fraser deals the initial cards of a seven-stud deal (first two, face down, third, face up). A box of paper clips lands on the table, tossed from somewhere, Ray roughly divides the clips into four piles, slides a pile to each player.
All look at their face down cards. Ray nudges Fraser, indicates how to look at your cards like a pro by just flipping up the corners.
Fraser has the low card showing.
RAY (CONT'D)
Low card brings it in.
Fraser doesn't know what this means. Impatient Ray leans and slides one of Fraser's clips to the centre. All slide clips to the pot. Ray deals another face up card.
RAY (CONT'D)
Fourth street.
Fraser is showing a King.
RAY (CONT'D)
Do you know what wins and loses here, Fraser? Do we have that?
HUEY
He's got the basics.
RAY
Like the basics aren't a tip off when you're dealing with pros.
Fraser sighs. Bets another clip. Everyone follows. Ray deals another face up card. The bets move on this card.
FRANCESCA AND DEWEY
FRANCESCA
I'll bet my salary on Fraser
DEWEY
For how long?
FRANCESCA
The year.
DEWEY
(laughs, thinks she's kidding) Too rich for this game.
Francesca reaches into the pocket of her pants, pulls out a couple of bills.
FRANCESCA
Okay, two bucks.
WELSH
That's illegal Miss Vecchio.
FRANCESCA
I'm sorry, sir. Nobody told me.
WELSH
You got to know the law if you want to be a co. . . . .
FRANCESCA
(frantically cuts him off) SIR. . . ah. . watch your cards.
Welsh looks over at Franny, gets it.
Dewey nods to Franny -- you're on. She shakes her head "no".
FRANCESCA (CONT'D)
(whispers to Dewey) I can't break the law.
DEWEY
Since when?
FRANCESCA
This morning.
ON THE GAME -- Ray deals another face up card. Fraser is showing the King and now a pair of two's. The bets are in. All eyes except Fraser's have gone steely. Ray deals the last card, face down.
FRASER
Do I have to bet more?
RAY / HUEY / WELSH
Yes.
FRASER
But I've already won. It would seem to be gloating.
A moment's hesitation, now Ray, Huey and Welsh all slide all their clips into the centre. Fraser shrugs, slides his in.
Fraser turns over his cards. Three Kings, a pair of two's.
FRASER (CONT'D)
I'm sorry.
WELSH
You can't do that. You can't bluff when you're not bluffing!
FRASER
I told the truth.
RAY
Poker isn't about truth.
WELSH
It's about deception, Constable. You gotta think, feel, look, and smell like a
poker player.
RAY
You stink, Fraser.
A look of consternation crosses Fraser's face. He sniffs himself.
FRASER
I don't think so, Ray.
A dozen more boxes of paper clips fly onto the table. As Welsh opens them, a very tense Ray starts another deal.
45 INT. POLICE STATION - HOLDING CELL -- NIGHT.
Denny's asleep on the cot in the cell, Dief and Ante beside her.
Fraser enters, watches her sleep for a beat, then turns away. Before he can go, she wakes up.
DENNY
Hi.
FRASER
Hi.
She notes how tired he looks.
DENNY
You've been up all night?
FRASER
Yes.
DENNY
Me too.
Fraser looks down at Denny.
FRASER
Nervous?
Denny nods.
DENNY
Scared. This Farah is a tough guy. He'll have bodyguards. Anything could
happen.
FRASER
You can still refuse.
DENNY
Then what? Your cop friends hang on to me until they catch this guy they're
after, or maybe they decide to put me away for gambling?
FRASER
They won't do that if you co-operate.
DENNY
Yeah, sure. They're honorable guys.
Fraser's hand is resting on the bars. She reaches over and takes it in hers.
DENNY (CONT'D)
I wish I could just disappear. Walk away from the whole thing. (a beat) You
ever feel like that?
FRASER
No.
Denny looks at him closely.
DENNY
No, I bet you haven't.
FRASER
Sometimes telling the whole truth is the only way out.
Denny smiles.
DENNY
You'll never make a poker player.
FRASER
Well actually. . .
He pulls a huge wad of paperclips out of his pocket. Denny looks at them curiously.
DENNY
Anybody can win when the stakes don't really matter.
Fraser puts them away again, a little embarrassed.
FRASER
I took the liberty of checking your record.
Denny pulls her hand away from his.
DENNY
Sure you did.
FRASER
You were arrested for assault in connection with a knifing in a poker game in
Arkansas.
Denny shrugs.
DENNY
Ancient history.
FRASER
You confessed to the stabbing in spite of the fact that a witness claimed your
brother Larry actually committed the crime.
Denny stares at him.
DENNY
Yeah well witnesses can be wrong.
FRASER
Or you could have been protecting your brother.
Denny hesitates for a moment.
DENNY
Could have been. (a beat) You take care of your family. And Larry. . . Well, he
couldn't take care of himself.
FRASER
What color is his hair?
Denny looks at him and smiles.
DENNY
Dark.
Fraser just looks at her.
DENNY (CONT'D)
Was. Larry's dead. Got into a fight. Other guy was quicker with the knife.
Fraser nods.
DENNY (CONT'D)
You'll find that in your computer too.
She takes his hand again.
DENNY (CONT'D)
Can I trust you?
Fraser nods.
DENNY (CONT'D)
Then you trust me.
Fraser nods again. Fraser Sr. appears over his shoulder.
FRASER SR
Be careful, son.
FRASER
(to Denny) I'll be back.
He walks away.
46 INT. POLICE STATION - MEN'S ROOM -- DAY (DAY TWO)
Fraser enters and splashes cold water on his face. Fraser Sr. is with him.
FRASER SR
You can do a lot with a woman like that, but you can't trust her.
FRASER
I realize there are risks. (a beat) I may be confusing duty and passion.
Fraser Senior considers.
FRASER SR
Duty is a passion, son. The only one that really counts.
FRASER
I understand that. But in this case is the passion for duty or for her?
FRASER SR
Well, that's the tricky part isn't it.
FRASER
Well, yes. (he waits for a moment) So perhaps you could chime in with some
valuable parental wisdom at this point.
FRASER SR
I snowshoed three hundred miles through driving hail, from Baker Lake to
Adelaide Peninsula on a rumor Lilly was up there. (a beat) She took my paycheck
in twenty minutes. . . sent me packing. (a beat) Best money I ever spent.
FRASER
That's advice?
FRASER SR
Of a kind.
Fraser shakes his head in frustration and leaves.
47 INT. POLICE STATION - BULLPEN -- DAY
Ray and Welsh at Ray's desk. Both slurp coffee.
RAY
Tech is on standby
WELSH
You think Fraser's okay with this?
Ray looks at him.
RAY
As long as he doesn't have to lie.
WELSH
Or bluff.
RAY
Or hold.
WELSH
Guess cheating would be out of the question.
Ray looks at him.
RAY
Imagine living like that.
Fraser comes toward them from the direction of the holding cells. Welsh takes some money from his pocket.
WELSH
Here's a stake, Constable. Try to hang onto it.
FRASER
I'll do my best, sir.
Neither Ray nor Welsh seem particularly confident.
Fraser moves off toward the lunchroom to find Francesca. They meet as she comes into the bullpen with a coffee.
FRASER (CONT'D)
I need you to check something out for me, Francesca.
FRANCESCA
Okay, Fraz. But first can I ask you a question about your work?
FRASER
I'll try to answer however, each RCMP officer is required to take an oath of
secrecy. Therefore, there are certain matters I'm duty bound not to discuss.
FRANCESCA
(impressed) Like about the Queen and Inspector Thatcher?
FRASER
I am loyal to them both, however I was referring to the discussion of matters
that may compromise national security.
FRANCESCA
Ohhhh.
FRASER
What would you like to know?
FRANCESCA
Is that hat really necessary?
Off Fraser.
48 INT. CONDO - DENNY'S SUITE -- DAY
Denny walks into the Condo with Ray and Fraser.
DENNY
I have to get ready now. I can't eat on game day, I can't use mint toothpaste,
I can't stand more than ten seconds facing any corner of the room. And I
shouldn't smile.
FRASER
I know gamblers have superstitions, but. . .
DENNY
Discipline is part of the game. (a beat) Now you both have to leave.
RAY
We're supposed to be watching you.
DENNY
Watch from outside. I can't smell a man until I sit at the table.
FRASER
That's a bit severe.
DENNY
You've got your rules, I've got mine.
RAY
Do they work?
DENNY
I win.
Ray nods. He and Fraser head for the door. As soon as they're gone she grabs up the phone and dials.
49 INT. CONDO - UPSTAIRS HALLWAY -- DAY
Ray and Fraser.
FRASER
I'll stay here.
RAY
I'll cover the rear exit.
As he walks away.
RAY (CONT'D)
Wake me up if anything happens.
50 INT. JOEY'S APARTMENT -- DAY
Joey picks up the phone.
JOEY
Yeah.
DENNY
(on phone) It's all off, Joey.
JOEY
Forget it Denny. Stick to the plan.
DENNY
It's crazy The cops are all over this. The feds. . Joey you have to. . .
JOEY
See you tonight.
He hangs up the phone. It starts ringing again almost immediately. Joey ignores it.
51 INT. CONDO - DENNY'S SUITE -- DAY
Denny slams down the phone the phone. Then she walks to her suitcase, takes out a gun and checks to be sure it's loaded.
END OF ACT THREE
ACT FOUR
52 INT. OLDSTYLE HOTEL - UPSTAIRS HALLWAY -- NIGHT (NIGHT TWO)
Like fight trainers, Ray, Welsh, Huey and Dewey move through the hallway with Fraser, in his street clothes.
Dief and Ante shuffle along behind, clearly a couple.
Huey is in front of Dewey and Welsh carrying a suit bag. Ray's got a duffel bag.
HUEY
I brought my tux.
DEWEY
He'll look like the waiters at Chico's
WELSH
Only if it's light blue.
HUEY
It's black and beautiful.
DEWEY
He's got to look expensive. Like all the guy's in Vegas.
WELSH
Vegas? They wear track suits.
RAY
He's gotta look like he knows what he's doing Do not, do not under any
circumstances consider betting on any pair under a ten.
Fraser looks thoughtful.
They reach a room. Welsh turns the key in the lock, they all pile in.
53 INT. OLDSTYLE HOTEL - COPS ROOM -- NIGHT
Welsh, Huey, Dewey, Fraser and Ray walk in. Fraser takes the suitbag from Huey, ducks into the washroom. Ante and Dief settle in.
WELSH
Feds won't let us monitor the room. I'm going to check out the lay of the land.
Welsh exits as Ray pulls three sets of coveralls out of the duffel bag and a map of the hotel. He spreads out the map.
RAY
(points to window ledge) We can see it from here.
DEWEY
On the ledge?
RAY
You're not afraid of heights, are you?
DEWEY
(lies) No. You?
RAY
Nope. And it's the only place we can watch the game.
HUEY
Can I come too?
RAY
Only got two outfits.
Fraser emerges from the can wearing Huey's tux. He looks amazing, dripping with dough, pure class. They're all taken back for a second by Fraser's appearance.
RAY (CONT'D)
Look's okay. (a beat) What's a flush?
FRASER
(the washroom) I didn't use it.
Fraser moves on. Ray, Huey and Dewey exchange looks.
RAY / HUEY / DEWEY
It oughta be us.
Ray's cell phone RINGS. He answers.
RAY
Yeah Franny. (hands it to Fraser) It's for you.
Fraser listens.
FRASER
Thank you, kindly.
He snaps the phone shut, turns to Ray.
RAY
What?
Welsh steps back into the room before Fraser can answer.
WELSH
Show time, Fraser.
54 INT. OLDSTYLE HOTEL - POKER SUITE -- NIGHT
A SECURITY GUARD, moves to the door, opens it to reveal Fraser out in the hallway. He takes Fraser in, trying to determine who he is.
FRASER
Benton Fraser
SECURITY GUARD frisks Fraser. Denny appears in the doorway behind Fraser.
DENNY (O.S.)
Mr. Fraser is with me.
Security stands aside.
Denny enters without being frisked. In a far corner, a round table, set for cards. Around the table sit three other gamblers we'll come to know as, Malone, Elkirk and Carson. There is a window behind, closed.
FRASER
Good evening.
Not so much as a nod.
Everybody except Denny looks nervous.
DENNY
He's Canadian.
MUMBLES, "Oh, a Canadian" as Fraser takes a seat. There is now just one empty seat at the table.
55 INT. OLDSTYLE HOTEL - FED'S ROOM -- NIGHT
Armed and dangerous. TEN FEDERAL AGENTS, scanners, monitors, weaponry. FORD and DEETER are among the men. Both start intently at the monitor.
FORD
Mountie is in place. Nice tux.
Deeter looks at the monitor.
DEETER
It's gotta be a rental.
56 INT. OLDSTYLE HOTEL - POKER SUITE -- NIGHT
Carson points at Fraser.
CARSON
Cold up there?
FRASER
It can be, yes.
CARSON
Went North to fish once. Froze my little toe.
They all look at him.
Fraser puts his money on the table.
FRASER
Winter's can be a challenge, however with the proper clothing and supplies,
survival is rarely a problem.
All eyes are on him. Hard. Cold.
57 INT. OLDSTYLE HOTEL - HALLWAY -- NIGHT
Ray and Dewey dressed like window washers and Huey dressed like an air conditioning repair man, move down the hallway.
58 EXT. OLDSTYLE HOTEL - LEDGE -- NIGHT
Ray and Dewey climb out a window onto a fire escape a floor or two from the top of the building. Ray looks down the ten floors to the street below, looks at the adjacent ledge they're supposed to be out on, turns to Dewey.
RAY
Go.
DEWEY
You go. (off Ray's look) He's your partner.
Ray steps onto the ledge, avoids looking down.
59 INT. OLDSTYLE HOTEL - POKER SUITE -- NIGHT
INTERCUT WITH RAY AND DEWEY ON THE LEDGE.
A seven-stud game in progress as fifth, sixth and seventh cards are dealt. Fraser takes in the faces, the intent expressions. Denny glances at him, looks away.
FRASER
(cheery) Where is everyone else from?
No answers. Bills tossed to the centre. Fraser's turn.
Carson turns to Fraser.
CARSON
You in?
FRASER
Yes, please. Thank you.
He adds his money. The others add more money. Elkirk folds. All done simply and quietly.
ON THE LEDGE
Ray and Dewey inch along, passing windows.
DEWEY
This isn't so bad.
RAY
Shut up.
DEWEY
Hey, you fall, I'm the guy who's going to have to catch you. (beat) Or not.
Off Ray -- flattened against the building.
IN THE SUITE
Fraser scoops up the pot.
FRASER
Vast quantities of money, actually in hand, well, it's got a certain amount of
appeal.
Dirty looks from all except Denny. Denny is trying not to look at Fraser at all. She glances at the empty chair.
Malone deals. As he gives Fraser his card --
FRASER (CONT'D)
Thank you.
The cards are delivered all around and to Fraser again.
FRASER (CONT'D)
Thank you.
More cards.
FRASER (CONT'D)
Thank you.
Carson shifts nervously.
DENNY
(leans to Fraser) Benton. It is not necessary for you to say thank-you for
every card.
FRASER
Understood. (another card) Thank you.
Elkirk grinds his teeth and loosens his tie.
ON THE LEDGE
Ray at the side of the game room window, looking in. Dewey behind him, unable to see.
DEWEY
Out of my way.
IN THE SUITE
as Fraser gets his seventh card. He's got "thank you" half out, but all eyes are on him, hard, and he chokes it back.
He looks at the final card.
FRASER
Fifty-two cards, four in any suit. What's the possibility of taking three of
those four in a seven hand game? Let's see. . .
As Fraser calculates, Malone folds.
FRASER (CONT'D)
And. . . none of them showing.
Everyone except Carson folds at this.
FRASER (CONT'D)
Well. The odds couldn't be greater than one in 2,756.
Fraser turns his cards. Three Jacks. Carson tosses his hand. Fraser scoops in the pot.
FRASER (CONT'D)
Sorry.
Malone tenses. Fraser looks across the table at him. Trying to read him.
DENNY
Benton, It might be better if you don't talk at all.
Fraser puts up his hands: say no more.
FRASER
As a boy I became an expert at a Dene stone switching game. . . I was
unbeatable above the tree line. . .
Fraser looks around him at the faces.
FRASER (CONT'D)
But then again, nobody is unbeatable, they just haven't come upon a worthy
opponent.
DENNY
Fraser. . .
FRASER
Understood.
A KNOCK at the door, they look. Security stiffens, opens the door, in walks FARAH, expensively dressed, cool, confident. He's accompanied by two big BODYGUARDS.
FARAH
(to guard) Alex Farah.
60 INT. OLDSTYLE HOTEL - FED'S ROOM -- NIGHT
They're on the move, heading for the door.
61. INT. OLDSTYLE HOTEL -- POKER SUITE -- NIGHT
Security frisks Farah -- comes up with his stack of cash, a weapon.
He confiscates the gun, hands back the cash and Farah moves to the table. Then he frisks and disarms the bodyguards.
Just as Farah is about to sit another man we immediately recognize as Joey enters the room. The Security guard looks to the table. Denny nods to the guard and he waves Joey in.
Joey moves for the table taking the seat next to Denny.
ON THE LEDGE
Ray draws his gun.
Dewey looks over at Ray, draws his gun. they stay pressed against the wall.
IN THE SUITE
On Farah as he focuses on Denny, ignoring everybody else.
FARAH
Denny Scarpa.
DENNY
Mr. Farah.
FARAH
I've come a long way for this. You better be as good as you look.
Denny smiles. Malone gives Farah a sideways glance.
ON THE LEDGE
Ray, gun at the ready, looks in the window.
AT THE TABLE
At the same instant under the table Denny passes Joey a weapon.
As the FEDS burst in, Joey stands pulls Denny to him, puts the gun on her, turns to the feds.
JOEY
Anybody moves I'll kill her.
He tosses a bag to one of the poker players.
JOEY (CONT'D)
Put the money in the bag. (nods to feds) Slide your guns over here.
As the feds slide over their guns he issues another command.
JOEY (CONT'D)
Face down on the floor.
Feds drop down as Ray and Dewey bust through the window, guns aimed, shields flashing.
RAY
Chicago P.D.
Ray faces Joey.
RAY (CONT'D)
Drop the gun.
JOEY
You think I wouldn't shoot.
Ray continues to hold his gun pointed at Joey.
RAY
Nobody's walking out of this room.
DENNY
Benton. Please. I'm scared. Tell you friend to put down his gun.
JOEY
Do it!
FRASER
I don't think your brother will shoot you, Ms. Scarpa.
There is a moment of silence in the room.
RAY
Her brother?
DENNY
My brother's dead.
FRASER
One of your brothers is dead. (to Joey) You'd be Joey, correct.
JOEY
(to Denny) You told him!
DENNY
No.
Joey's looking at Ray and Dewey. They still have their guns pointed at him. He gives Denny a shove toward them she collides with them, deliberately tangling up their guns as Joey climbs out the window. Fraser goes out after him. Ray disentangles himself from Denny and runs to the window.
RAY'S POV
Fraser reaching the top of the fire escape disappearing over top of the roof.
RESUME SCENE
Dewey grabs Denny.
FORD
Where's Farah?
He and Deeter look around. Farah's gone.
FORD (CONT'D)
Oh, no!
He races back out of the room.
62 EXT. OLDSTYLE HOTEL - ROOF -- NIGHT
Fraser sprints across the roof.
63 EXT. ALLEY -- NIGHT
Fraser drops off the fire escape as Joey jumps into his car. Fraser leaps onto the back of the car as it speeds away. Joey rounds the corner, Fraser almost slides off. He hangs on. Joey floors it as Fraser slides through the back window into the car.
Joey turns to look at Fraser, loses control, smashes into a fire hydrant sending water a hundred feet in the air. Fraser yanks Joey out as Ray, Welsh and the other cops converge.
END OF ACT FOUR
TAG
64 EXT. OLDSTYLE HOTEL - STREET -- NIGHT
Mayhem. SIRENS, COPS, FEDS.
In the background, Ford and Deeter are being screamed at by a man in a suit, apparently their boss.
Welsh, Huey, Dewey and Ray load Denny and the other the gamblers into cop cars.
Fraser approaches Denny as she's being led away.
DENNY
I never fooled you, did I.
FRASER
I had my doubts. (a beat) Why did you do it? You can win without stealing.
DENNY
Joey can't. He'd have tried without me and gotten himself killed like Larry. (a
beat) I couldn't let that happen.
She shrugs.
DENNY (CONT'D)
You have to help your family. (a beat) But you can't trn a loser into a winner.
Guess I knew that all along.
She moves away.
RAY
How'd you know.
FRASER
I didn't. But at her apartment she seemed to recognize the man in the hallway.
Also I was fairly certain he had dark hair.
RAY
Why didn't you say something?
FRASER
I couldn't be sure. She was entitled to a full investigation.
RAY
Yeah. And you liked her. Admit it, Fraser. You didn't want to believe she was
guilty.
Fraser doesn't say anything. Ray moves off.
Fraser watches as the cop car holding Denny and Ante pulls away. Dief GROANS like his heart's being ripped out. Fraser reaches down and pats his head.
FRASER SR
It's never easy, son.
FRASER
You got over Lilly.
FRASER SR
It's been over forty years since I walked into Rusty Courtnell's cabin and saw
Lilly dealing. Day doesn't go by I don't think about her.
END OF SHOW