BLACK SCREEN: A PLOPPING NOISE, AS IF A ROCK HAS BEEN D EXT. RED RIVER-DAY wide: clear blue sky. the sun is brilliantly glowing, it is nearly blinding. PAN: from the sky to reveal a river, glistening against the reflection of the sun's rays. the water is calm. A bird dances above the water as it whistles and chirps like a wind chime. We follow the bird across the river to see a RED LURE plop into the water like a heavy stone. EXT. SWANKY LOUNGE-EVENING MATCH CUT: A HAND PLOPS A RED CHERRY INTO A COCKTAIL. close up: the hand carries the drink past a bar rack of liquors and stops at a woman. A beautiful RED HEAD (22) seductively removes the tied cherry stem from her cocktail. CHASE (24)'s handsome yet boyish face lights with curiosity; he raises the corner of his mouth. She coyly tosses the stem at his chest. ALICIA Are you gonna pretend like you're unimpressed all night? He shrugs. ALICIA (CONT'D) I guess my tongue tying abilities don't compare to your chemac-tick stroke theory. CHASE Is-chem-ic stroke. She leans back in her seat. ALICIA Don't you get tired of all this medical talk? CHASE I wouldn't make a very good doctor if I got tired of medical talk now, would I? She smiles. ALICIA You're not a doctor. CHASE Yet...get back to me in three months. He sips his Yuengling. ALICIA So, in three months we'll be able to go to lunch like normal couples instead of having to meet up at late hours? Chase chokes on his beer. CHASE In three months you'll be seeing less of me. I don't want to mislead you... She shrugs. ALICIA Don't you ever get lonely? He pauses and looks at her. CHASE Can't ever feel lonely if you're always alone. She hesitates to speak, but she sips her drink. CHASE This is supposed to be fun, remember? He nudges her. She smiles and nods. ALICIA Yeah, but I don't think I've ever had to work this hard before. CHASE I suppose I've seen it all. She leans closer to him. ALICIA Not everything... She eyes him and he smiles. CHASE What's left to see? She pauses for a moment and stares at the TV screen beyond his right shoulder. There are images of a serene. She looks at him. ALICIA I'll show you. She beckons the bartender and grabs her wallet. ALICIA (CONT'D) If you're not speechless after what I'm about to show you then I'll stop trying. CHASE Does this entail the women's bathroom again? She shoots him a look. ALICIA I was drunk, so that doesn't count. CHASE Why not? You were literally speechless. She slaps him in the chest, the bartender approaches. BARTENDER What can I get for you? She hands him her debit card. ALICIA Can I close my tab, please? The bartender nods and walks away. Chase brings out his wallet and removes cash. She gets out of her seat. CHASE Where are you going? ALICIA I'm gonna show you two things tonight that I know will take your breath away. CHASE Which are? The bartender brings her debit card back with a pen and receipt. He sets it on the counter. She picks up the pen and signs. ALICIA This amazing part of the city that I'm sure you've never seen and my bedroom; bathroom may or may not be included. Chase raises his eyebrows. She throws the pen down, grabs her bag, and walks for the door. He jumps out of his chair and is quick to follow after her. EXT. PARK/RESERVOIR-EVENING Alicia's hands are covering Chase's eyes as they slowly approach the river bank before them. The river cuts down the middle of what resembles the financial district of Manhattan. Tall buildings and skyscrapers glisten against the darkening sky. Alicia stops walking. ALICIA Kick off your shoes. CHASE (hesitant) Alicia, where the hell are you taking me? ALICIA Just trust me. She smiles as she kicks off her heels. Chase uses the soles of his shoe to slip his left heel out of the shoe, he does the same for his right. Alicia begins to guide him to the water. ALICIA I come here when I want to get away. It's beautiful around this time of night. close up: alicia's painted toes nails walking on the cobbled stones begin to submerge into the water. Chase's bare feet enter the frame, he stops walking when the tide approaches his toes. Chase's smile falls from his face. He frowns and begins to retract. ALICIA Oh, come on. The water's not that cold. FLASH: a boy wearing green shorts swimming in a distance river. The sound of slapping water emanates as the boy rises and dives. He rises to the surface and dives. He rises and dives. CUT BACK TO: Chase rips Alicia's hands from his face. Chase's pov: the river before him is dark and calm. He whips around to walk away. ALICIA Chase! His brisk walk becomes a run. He leaves Alicia and the river in the distance. EXT. RED RIVER-DAY A CHILD's (8) bare feet run along a river bank. The warm breeze rustles the tree's leaves. The running feet are hitting the dirt desperately fast. CHILD's (8) pov: a dirt path lay ahead to an endless open field, the river to his left is calm but the sound of fighting water emanates as his breathing grows frantic. INT. CHASE'S BEDROOM-MORNING Chase rips his eyes open. He gasps for air and rubs his wet face. He stares at his white bare ceiling, taking short, sporadic breaths. He sighs and rolls onto his side. He reaches for his cell phone hidden behind empty cans of Budweiser. A text message from Alicia reads, 'I have your shoes, call me.' He deletes the message. The home screen displays 9:30 AM. CHASE Shit! He tears apart his dresser: t-shirts are crumpled like paper, mate-less socks buried underneath his boxers, worn pants are strung on the back of his chair. INT. CHASE'S LIVING ROOM/KITCHEN-CONTINUOUS He rushes into his living room where binders as thick as dictionaries are strewn about the coffee tabletop. The text within the binders are colored pink, orange, green, and yellow. Words have been highlighted, circled, and noted methodically with multiple highlighters. He slams them shut and shoves them into his backpack. He pats his chest pocket, side pockets, back pockets. CHASE Damnit, where the-- He rushes to his kitchen’s bar top, reaching over the counter top to swat away an old pizza box. He knocks one of his picture frames into the clogged sink.  The cardboard falls to the ground and day old pizza slides across the linoleum floor. CHASE Aagh! He yanks the picture from the yellowish, oily water. He shakes it dry and sets back into its original spot. He rushes into the kitchen to only find crumbs hidden underneath the box. He turns to his kitchen table; there are more powerpoints, notes highlighted green, yellow, and pink. He rummages through the papers until he finds a QUARTER. CHASE Yes! He shoves the quarter into his left pant pocket and rushes out the door. INT. CYBIL & GRACE HOSPITAL, HALLWAY-CONTINUOUS Two nurses casually share stories from their weekends as they approach the elevator. NURSE #1 I couldn't believe Ken got voted off. He was so cute! NURSE #2 I told you that stuff's rigged. The doors open and Chase rushes off, nearly trampling the two women. NURSE #2 Hey! Watch it! He struggles to keep his backpack on as he bobs and weaves through people like a running back. CHASE (mumbling to himself) Move, move, move His sneakers come to a squeaking halt when he arrives to a door labeled "Residents Only." INT. RESIDENT LOCKER ROOM-CONTINUOUS Chase bursts into an empty locker room. He arrives to his locker, labeled "CHASE EDWARDS," the neighboring cubbies are all full of bags, purses, folders, etc. He unlocks it and swings the door open and a post-it-note falls, gliding to the floor. CLOSE UP: post-it is written in neat, delicate handwriting "room 203" He stares at the note and slams the locker shut. INT. HOSPITAL ROOM 203-CONTINUOUS A group of ten young men and women dressed in scrubs huddle before a lean yet commanding ASIAN WOMAN. The Asian woman  lectures to the group. PAN: the young faces of the residents. their eyes are wide with exhaustion and intent. pan stops at Marissa (23) brunette hair, BROWN eager-eyed resident soaking up every word, and all-American austin (23) nodding in agreement. ASIAN WOMAN Not quiet, Roberts. Anyone else brave enough to demonstrate that you all clearly have not been studying? Chase bursts into the room. The group turns around for a moment, then back to Dr. Lee. AUSTIN (whispering sarcastically) Look what the cat dragged in. Marissa hits his arm. ASIAN WOMAN If the patient displays small skin lesions, fatigue, fever; then patient exhibits-- CHASE (panting) Endocaditis! The Asian Woman raises an eyebrow and looks to Chase as he smooths his jacket and diverts his eye contact to the ground. ASIAN WOMAN Correct, Edwards. Now, to confirm this. We proceed with...? Chase squints his eyes and bites his lower lip. He taps his foot to jog his memory. CHASE Uh... MARISSA A transesophageal echocardiography, Dr. Lee. DR. LEE Very good, Anderson. Chase eyes Marissa and nods impressively. Dr. Lee begins to walk forward cutting through the group of residents; they part like the red sea to allow her to pass. DR. LEE Some of you need to brush up on your pathology, some of clearly have been studying, some of you... She stops short and pauses next Chase. DR. LEE ...shouldn't rely so much on luck. CHASE Dr. Lee, I apologize I-- She exits before he can finish. The other residents sigh a breath of relief. INT. HOSPITAL HALLWAYS-CONTINUOUS Chase drags himself to the elevator but stops short to hear the whispers of the hovering residents. CLOSE UP: chase eavesdropping in foreground, Residents whispering in background. RESIDENT #1 ...no it's like his fifth time in two weeks. AUSTIN Ridiculous. Probably took him forever to decide which pants to put on this morning. Austin and the group laugh as they walk down the hall. Chase rolls his eyes as Marissa approaches. MARISSA Surprised you managed to find us. Chase remains facing the elevator doors. CHASE (sarcastically) Must be my luck. Marissa snickers. MARISSA (joking) Haha, how will you ever repay the universe for saving you from the wrath of Lee-cifer? There is silence. MARISSA (CONT'D) Get it? Lucifer plus Lee...? Chase continues to stare at the numbers blink above the elevator doors. MARISSA (CONT'D) You okay? CHASE (annoyed) I'm fine. I just overslept. MARISSA Bananas. CHASE What? The elevator doors open, letting passengers off. MARISSA Increase your intake of potassium. It will give you the energy you need in the mornings. Maybe even keep Lee off your back. She gives a wide grin, but he stares at her. He steps onto the elevator, turning to press a button. Without saying a word, the doors close. MARISSA (CONT'D) Or not... Marissa shakes her head and turns to catch up with the INT. SYBIL & GRACE HOSPITAL CAFETERIA-DAY The glass walls are high, as doctors, nurses, and patrons walk over the bridges into the next wings. The cafeteria hums with conversations, clinking silverware, and scraping chairs. Marissa falls into line behind Austin, grabbing her tray and utensils. MARISSA I'm not even that hungry. AUSTIN You will be if you don't eat. Lee's got us doing her rounds all day, and then she's gonna split us into teams for the case study. He places corn on his plate. AUSTIN (CONT'D) I promise you, you'll be glad you ate now. Marissa shakes her head and tosses salad onto her plate in frustration. She flings tomatoes, olives and croûtons. She slides down to face the weathered eyes of the CAFETERIA LADY, Marissa stares at the fried fish drenched in oil. Marissa pauses. CAFETERIA LADY There a problem, honey? MARISSA Saturated fat. CAFETERIA LADY Wha? Austin eyes her as he grabs a fruit salad. Marissa is staring at the fish. MARISSA This fish. It was fried in what? Butter? It's practically secreting oil. Austin rushes back to grab her, she is still staring at the fish without ever acknowledging Austin's presence or the woman's glare. MARISSA (CONT'D) I mean, is this not one the top hospitals in the northeast, but we can't even feed our doctors with the proper intake of healthy fats? AUSTIN (stern) Marissa, what are you doing? The Cafeteria Lady folds her arms, pursuing her lips, raising an eyebrow. MARISSA There is such a thing as healthy fats. AUSTIN Marissa, stop. MARISSA Would you eat this? She picks up the plate, presenting it to Austin and the woman. Marissa places it back down and sticks her finger in the pool of oil. She rubs the oil in between her fingers. MARISSA I mean what is-- She smells it. CAFETERIA LADY Canola oil. Fried fillet salmon, drizzled with a mix of canola oil and vinegar. Marissa's pov: turns to Austin to see a fillet on top of his salad, she turns to her left to see a line of annoyed nurses. She wipes her finger tips on her scrub. MARISSA I'm so sorr-- CAFETERIA LADY I been working in this kitchen for nearly 12 years... A nurse grabs a plate of fish in front of Marissa. NURSE #3 Thanks, Lorena. CAFETERIA LADY Sure thing, Debbie. She turns back to Marissa. LORENA Now are you gonna eat that piece you've had your fingers in or are gonna tell me more about the difference between mono saturated and trans fats? Marissa grabs the plate and places it on her tray. MARISSA Miss I am so sorry, I didn't mean to tell you how-- LORENA (annoyed) You're holdin up my line, girl. Austin grabs his tray and Marissa's tray. AUSTIN We're so sorry, Miss. She's having a bad day, I apologize. LORENA The name's Lorena. Marissa grabs her tray from Austin and winces a smile as she turns to walk away. They walk to join the other residents already seated at the table. AUSTIN The hell was that? MARISSA I didn't mean to come of so rude. I don't know why...I feel so bad! Should I--I have to apologize to her! They sit down. AUSTIN You already did... He stares at her. AUSTIN (CONT'D) Is something bothering you? MARISSA No, no I'm fine. Just a weird day. Marissa begins to cut up her fish. Laughter erupts from the end of the table. RESIDENT #1 How do you think Lee's gonna do it? RESIDENT #2 I don't know. I just hope I'm not with you, Thompson. I don't think I could pretend to like you for 72 hours straight. Austin laughs at the joke, he opens his mouth to throw in his own humor, but something catches his eye. AUSTIN's POV: He spots Chase in line assembling his salad. AUSTIN (O.C.) I'll take Thompson. Who wants Edwards? Chase gathers his tray and starts walking toward their table, the group groans. medium shot: Marissa looks up to see chase walking toward them. she removes her yogurt and banana from the spot to the left of her to free up the empty chair. she smiles, but her smile begins to fall. Chase walks past her to sit at a table for two, alone. Austin notices Marissa place her yogurt and banana back. THOMPSON He's probably dying at the thought of spending more than five minutes with someone. He does everything alone... Thompson shakes his head and sets his water down. THOMPSON (CONT'D) God speed to whoever is paired with him. The group continues in their side conversations; Austin leans over the table toward Marissa. AUSTIN The more you try, the more frustrated you're gonna get. Marissa nods and picks at her salad. AUSTIN (CONT'D) I'm serious, Marissa. People like him only know how to push others away. MARISSA I know, I know. I'm jus-I'm just curious, that's all. AUSTIN You can't solve everything or everyone. MARISSA Who says I can't try. She looks at him and begins to eat again. Austin eyes her. chase's POV: Chase watches the group from afar. he stares down at his salad then back up at the group. he admires Marissa, her brown eyes almost meet his when the midriff of a white jacket steps into his line of view. DR. LEE Eating alone again, Edwards? Chase shakes from his trance. CHASE Oh, no. Just, uh... He grabs a magazine left open at his table. CHASE (CONT'D) ...doing some studying. You know, maximizing my time as you say, Doctor Lee. He feigns a smile. She grabs it from him. DR. LEE Mmm-hmm, 'Bikini waxing; the scary truth.' She flips the magazine to reveal the cover, "Women's Health." CHASE Oh yeah, did you know the wax can lead to folliculitis and other bacterial infections? Interesting stuff, right? Chase takes a big bite of his salad. She sits in the chair across from him. DR. LEE You don't fool me, Edwards. He chews and nods his head. DR. LEE (CONT'D) I know your type. Your drive and determination are your greatest strength and weakness. Chase takes another bite of his salad and continues to chew and nod. DR. LEE (CONT'D) There's something about this place...these walls... She turns to look out the window. DR. LEE (CONT'D) ...they have a way of blinding people, until all you see are people you don't know at all. She continues to stare out the window, deep in thought. Chase stops chewing and watches her for a long moment. CHASE Dr. Lee? DR. LEE The question I asked the group this morning? I knew no one would have an answer, considering we haven't covered the material yet... She pauses and stares at him. He stops chewing. DR. LEE (CONT'D) ...but you knew it. CHASE I'm partial to pathological disorders of the heart. He shrugs. She nods and slides back in her chair. DR. LEE There's clearly not much for me to teach you, but if there's any wisdom I can give you... She stands. DR. LEE ...know that mastering pathology is half the battle. Dealing with people is something you won't learn from any textbook. She taps the magazine, nods and walks away. Chase stares at the magazine's cover: 'WHAT SHE'S REALLY SAYING; listen to your body and mind.' He looks back to where Marissa was sitting. chase's pov: he sees an old man sitting alone. He removes the quarter from his left pocket and rubs it between his fingers. He sighs and stands, and places the quarter back. INT. CYBIL & GRACE HOSPITAL HALLWAY-DAY Chase is walking down the hallway toward a large group, huddled in a semi circle. He approaches to see Dr. Lee standing next to binders stacked to her shoulders on top of the counter. The residents eagerly await her command. She continues to read off her list. DR. LEE Thompson and Roberts. Peterson and Smith. Edwards and Anderson... MEDIUM: Marissa stands amongst the other residents fist pumping in excitement, her face is lit with shock. DR. LEE (CONT'D) Everyone paired off? I didn't miss anyone? Silence. DR. LEE (CONT'D) These cases are worth thirty percent of your grade. You have 72 hours. I won't accept late reports, so a single minute after 8:30 on Friday, you'd have to score a perfect on your exams in May in order to keep your residency dreams alive. She nods towards Chase. DR. LEE (CONT'D) Off you go. She walks down the hall and the group disperses as Austin approaches Marissa. AUSTIN Did you ask- MARISSA No! She bows her head and nervously looks around. MARISSA (CONT'D) Do you think I should switch? Chase approaches them. CHASE Your last name's Anderson, right? Marissa opens her mouth, but Austin takes a step toward Chase and cuts her off. AUSTIN Has been for the last two years, chief! Just like you've come in late 26 days out of past 730 days since we've been here, Chase smirks. CHASE Impressive. Austin glares at Chance as he grabs a binder off the counter top and turns to Marissa. CHASE (CONT'D) Whenever you're done talking with your boyfriend, we can go to work and get this thing over with. I'll be in the library on the third floor. Chase salutes to Austin with his binder in hand and turns toward the elevator. Marissa's mouth falls open. AUSTIN And just to think...you actually thought you might like him. Marissa glares at him. MARISSA Why'd you do that? Now I have to deal with 'The Grinch That Stole My Residency.' AUSTIN (laughing) I'm sorry, but he tried to insult you. AUSTIN (CONT'D) (mocking in disgust) 'Your last name's Anderson, right?' Marissa rolls her eyes. MARISSA So you insult me by not allowing me to speak for myself? You're no better than him. Austin winces a smile. AUSTIN I'll make it up to you later. He winks in a sarcastic, flirtatious manner. AUSTIN (CONT'D) Have fun. Austin walks to meet with his partner. Marissa stands alone, she sighs and watches Chase wait for the elevator. She rushes to catch him. The elevator doors open and Chase steps on. MARISSA Hold it! Chase stops the door from closing and she runs on. INT. CYBIL & GRACE HOSPITAL INSIDE ELEVATOR-CONTINUOUS CHASE That was quick. The doors close. Chase presses the number three. The numbers count down. MARISSA He's not my boyfriend. Chase laughs. CHASE (joking) It really is my lucky day, I have an oblivious partner! Marissa glares at him. CHASE C'mon, Anderson. MARISSA Why are you so rude? I've been nothing but nice to you, but you have consistently been rude. CHASE At least I'm consistent. Today is the first time I've seen anything but your bubbly, cheerful side. Marissa huffs in disgust as the elevator opens again. MARISSA Don't flatter yourself. INT. CYBIL & GRACE HOSPITAL LIBRARY-DAY Marissa steps off and Chase follows her into the library. Marissa walks past vacant tables in the middle of the floor and continues to the back. She sits at a table near a window. Chase sits next to her and opens the binder without saying a word.  Marissa pulls her chair closer to him to share the reading. She removes a pink and green highlighter from her pocket. close up of text: Pink highlighter highlighting a sentence, Green circles a word. Chase does a double take and smiles. He continues to read as Marissa highlights a few more lines. CLOSE UP of text: Marissa's GREEN highlighter begins to highlight a word, but a yellow highlighter beats her to it. Marissa looks at him curiously, but Chase continues to highlight. She stands to take off her jacket. CHASE What are you doing? MARISSA Getting comfortable. We're gonna be here for a while. She places her jacket on the back of her chair and turns to look out of the window. She extends her arms in the air to stretch her shoulders. Chase watches her shirt creep up, exposing part of her back/lower midriff. CLOSE UP: Marissa's duck tattoo on her left hip. CHASE How old were you? She turns around and brings her arms to her side. MARISSA Excuse me? Chase continues to highlight and read. CHASE Your tattoo. How old were you when you got it? She tugs her shirt down and sits back in her seat. MARISSA Seventeen. She resumes her reading and highlighting. MARISSA (CONT'D) And it was before the tramp stamp became a fad, so don't think I was trying to be cool. Chase laughs. CHASE You just thought ducks were especially cool. Marissa stops highlighting and looks up at him. MARISSA Her name was Lucy. She was my first pet. I got her when I was five and I'm an only child. She was like family to me...she died when I was seventeen. She begins highlighting again. Chase stops highlighting and looks at her. CHASE Sorry. MARISSA Don't be. I'm sorry you have to live with her name tattooed on your tricep. Chase rubs his left arm. Marissa continues to look down MARISSA (CONT'D) (mocking) Yeah, so much for being oblivious. You must have thought she was especially cool. She smirks. MARISSA (CONT'D) I'm surprised you'd put any girl's name on your body. Considering your track record, you don't seem like the type to get attached. Chase shifts in his seat and rubs his left pocket. MARISSA (CONT'D) Who was the infamous Taylor? He feigns a laugh. CHASE I've forgotten that part of my life...kinda like you forgot Lorena's been serving us for the past two years. Marissa rolls her eyes and picks up her highlighter. Chase does the same. MARISSA I didn't mean to be rude to her. CHASE Oh, I know who you meant it for...shall we? MARISSA I'll figure it out by the end of this week, this Taylor girl. I'm a very curious person. CHASE That you are. He nods and smiles. They fall into silence again. EXT. CYBIL & GRACE LIBRARY ENTRANCE-NIGHT Marissa and Chase drag themselves out of the library. The  blackness of the night contrasts the fluorescent lights of the hospital’s hallways. A janitor seated on his floor cleaner slowly drives past. Marissa hands Chase a notepad with organized notes and charts drawn. MARISSA So, same time tomorrow. I'm doing the first half and you're doing the second. CHASE You got it. MARISSA Try to get some rest tonight? If you come in late again tomorrow it'll cost both of us. She turns to make her way down the hall away from Chase. CHASE (O.C.) So, no more of your post-it-notes to help me find where you guys are? Marissa stops in her track and turns around. CHASE (CONT'D) Your O's are very loopy. I noticed. He raises the binder. CHASE (CONT'D) I'm very detail oriented. She smiles. MARISSA That you are. Good night. She waves and continues down the hall, making a right to disappear into the adjacent wing. Chase smiles and walks toward the exit, he pushes the door open. MATCH CUT: CHASE WALKS OUT THE EXIT DOOR OPENING THE DO INT. CHASE'S APARTMENT, LIVING ROOM/KITCHEN AREA-NIGHT He opens the door to his apartment, and turns on the light. We see the storm he left from the morning. He groans and tosses his backpack on top of the kitchen table. He sits, unzips his backpack, removes his notes and highlighter to pick up where he left off. He begins doodling as he reads. His eyes grow heavy and his head bobs. MARISSA (O.S.) Who was the infamous Taylor? EXT. RED RIVER-DAY The same Child from earlier turns to see the Older Boy (12) in GREEN SHORTS. Child's pov: The older boy's BLUE eyes are sharp. His freckled face is twisted in frustration, and stares back annoyance. The Child grabs his wrist, tugging him away from the river's water. The Child tugs the Older Boy again. CHILD Taylor! You can't go in the lake! Mom said-- Taylor breaks free from the Child's grip and turns back to face the river. The warm breeze rustles the willows leaves as birds chirp and whistle like wind chimes. Taylor turns back to face him. TAYLOR Forget what Mom said...here we'll flip for it. Heads I go, tails we cut the line. Taylor removes a quarter from his pocket. MONTAGE SERIES OF SHOTS: CLOSE UP: the quarter shines in the sunlight. It flips in the air, tossing over and over until it falls. cut to: Taylor rushes the water and begins to swim toward the depths of the river. CLOSE UP: the CHILD shields his eyes from the sun's rays. The Child watches Taylor disappear under water. The sound of slapping water emanates as Taylor rises and dives in the distance. Taylor's cries and gasps for air grow loud. The Child pinches his eyes shut and gasps for air to scream. INT. CHASE'S APARTMENT, LIVING ROOM/KITCHEN AREA-CONTINUOUS Chase gasps and awakens in a dripping sweat. His notepad is damp from his sweaty forehead; he wipes it dry and notices his doodles in the margin: doodled ducks. He stares, and scribbles over them with his pen. He shakes his head, tosses the highlighter, and stands. INT. CHASE'S BEDROOM-CONTINUOUS He drags himself into his room. He takes off his pants, slumps them over the back of his chair, changes his t-shirt, yawns and collapses to his bed. He glances at his phone 5:06 AM. He stares at his ceiling. INT. CHASE'S BEDROOM-MORNING The alarm blares an obnoxious and continuous screech. Chases tosses slowly and reaches for his phone. He separates his eyelids to peer at the time: 8:45 AM. His eyes rip open and  springs out of bed. INT. RESIDENT LOCKER ROOM-CONTINUOUS Chase arrives to his locker earlier than usual, but still late. The other residents turn shocked to see him. He slumps down on to the bench in front of his locker. He brings himself to unlock his locker. He finds a banana and smiles. He begins to peel it when Marissa enters the room with Austin. AUSTIN Well, well, well. Look who found the strength to make it. Chase nods, boasting the banana. CHASE Bananas. Excellent source of energy. Marissa smirks and opens her locker. AUSTIN (sarcastically) I think the point is to eat the banana before you start your day. Austin turns to the group and speaks louder. AUSTIN (CONT'D) What's this now, guys? Day 27 of catch up for Edwards? Keep it up, bud! Austin walks by and slaps Chase on his back, nearly forcing the banana out of his mouth. The group hums and laughs as they file out of the locker room. Chase watches them walk by. CHASE Where's everyone going? Marissa crosses towards him. MARISSA I thought I told you to make sure you slept? Austin stops short at the door. AUSTIN (stern) You coming, Marissa? MARISSA Yeah, I'll be right there. Go ahead without me. Austin lingers and stares Chase down. AUSTIN Alright. He exits, leaving Marissa and Chase alone. MARISSA What the hell happened? CHASE What? MARISSA Lee gave every group two hours to work on their cases instead of doing her rounds today. Chase sighs and turns his back to her and faces his locker. MARISSA (CONT'D) (stern) We lost time because you overslept. I can't afford to fail because you can't get out of bed. She waits for his response. He continues to unzip his backpack, fishing out folders and binders. MARISSA (CONT'D) What time'd you go to bed? CHASE I didn't. MARISSA You slept here? CHASE No, I just didn't sleep when I got home. I couldn't... MARISSA Why not? It's a perfectly normal human process. Are you sick? CHASE No. Chase grabs old water bottles and the banana peel from his locker. He walks around Marissa to toss the trash into the garbage. MARISSA When did this loss of sleep begin to occur? He walks back to his opened locker. CHASE Eight. He slams it shut and makes his way toward the door and exits. Leaving Marissa in the room alone. MARISSA (to herself) Eight? INT. CYBIL & GRACE CAFETERIA-DAY Chase is seated at a table for two alone, again. He is nibbling on a salad as he reads their case, someone shuts his binder close. He looks up to see Austin. AUSTIN Just needed to make sure I have your attention. Austin smiles. Chase shifts in his seat, glaring at him. AUSTIN (CONT'D) I know you and I aren't the best of friends. CHASE We're not acquaintances. Austin laughs. AUSTIN Fair...listen, I really just want what's best for her, and she needs to do well on this. Austin taps the binder. AUSTIN (CONT'D) I don't want you to think I dislike you. A lot of the guys don't get my humor or peg me as some sort of bully. Austin laughs at the accusation. Chase eyes him in confusion. AUSTIN (CONT'D) I mean I'd like to think, I'm a friendly guy! You just gotta warm up to me. CHASE (sarcastically) Well, I just feel all tingly inside. Austin laughs, clapping his hands slowly. AUSTIN See, Edwards. That's why I like you, we're the same person. CHASE Are we now? Austin nods and leans forward, challenging Chase's space. Chase squints his eyes at his advance. AUSTIN Oh, yeah. Two alpha males at the top of the class, same sense of humor, same great taste in girls... Austin nods to his right, Chase turns to his left. CHASE's pov: Marissa enters the cafeteria. She is lively as she chats with a nurse. AUSTIN (CONT'D) Problem is, alpha means one. CHASE She's not my type. Austin sits back in his chair, swatting his hands in disbelief. AUSTIN Oh, you mean she's not easy? She's not, and that's exactly the reason why you stare at her when you think no one is looking. Chase clinches his jaw and places his hands in his lap. AUSTIN (CONT'D) I see the way you look at her. She's everything you've wanted but you're too afraid to have. Close up: chase wipes the palms of his hands on his pant pockets. he clinches his left pocket, the outlining of the quarter takes shape. the veins of his hands pulsate. CHASE You sure you aren't talking about yourself? AUSTIN Haha, no not at all. She's my best friend. CHASE I see the way you look at her. Austin smirks, he leans back in his chair. AUSTIN Alright. Yeah, she's a beautiful girl. Smart, sweet, funny, great body. Type of girl you take home to your mother and all your friends are jealous of. Only thing is, I could never be with a girl who thinks she's smarter than me. CHASE She is smarter than you. Austin shakes his head. AUSTIN Nah, she just works really hard. She doesn't even realize she's not meant to be a doctor. Chase is disgusted. Austin nods. AUSTIN But even as her friend I support her, thus why I came to you. She needs to do well on this case and she's stressed you guys lost time this morning. So, next time you both meet to do work you should-- CHASE I'm sorry, why would I ever take advice from you? AUSTIN I want her--I want her happiness, that's all. I'm doing this for her, now you want my advice or not? Chase eyes him, pauses and gives a slight nod. AUSTIN (CONT'D) Take her to a break room next time you guys study. She usually locks herself in there to recharge, she claims it’s her ‘zen space.' She’ll appreciate it and you'll likely be able to play catch up. You know all about catch up though don’t you, Edwards? Chase's face is flat, Austin smiles and slaps him firmly in his bicep. AUSTIN (CONT'D) Joke, c'mon man. Austin slides back in his chair and stands. AUSTIN (CONT'D) Hey, take what I said or leave it. Up to you... Austin salutes him. He turns and leaves. Chase watches him walk up to Marissa. He puts his hands on her shoulders, rubbing them as he ushers her out of the cafeteria. MEDIUM CLOSE UP: Chase staring at the empty space marissa and austin occupied. He removes the quarter from his left pocket and rubs it between his fingers before setting it atop his thumb. He flings it in the air and slaps it on top of his palm. He pauses before uncovering it. He removes his top hand and sighs. INT. HOSPITAL AUDITORIUM-DAY A stout, short INDIAN MAN is standing at the front the room, lecturing to the group. His glasses hang on the tip of his nose. He speaks slowly. The residents in the front row bob their head in attempts to keep themselves awake, some give into their fatigue. Chase is seated in a row alone in the back; he hears someone whisper his name. MARISSA (whispering) Chase. He turns to his left and looks at the row below him. Marissa is hesitant to turn all the way around, she strains her neck to speak. MARISSA Do you have your notes on you? CHASE (whispering) Yeah, why? MARISSA Let's work on the case. I'm not paying attention to him, are you? Chase shakes his head no and begins to open his binder, but he stops. CHASE Let's just leave and work on this somewhere else. MARISSA Just walk out? He's gonna see us... Chase packs up his stuff and gets up from his seat. CHASE Dr. Shankar is near blind, he can't see past the third row without his glasses. I've been sitting back here for six months and he's never once noticed me sleeping. He makes his way out his row and turns back to Marissa; he extends his open hand. CHASE (CONT'D) Shall we? She smiles, quietly leaves her seat, and grabs his hand. INT. HOSPITAL HALLWAYS-CONTINUOUS Chase leads Marissa down the hallway with their hands still clasped. He is walking with a purpose and Marissa eagerly follows, he makes a sharp left stopping at a door labeled "BREAK ROOM." Marissa's grin falls from her face. MARISSA Where are we going? Chase opens the door and ushers her in. She INT. BREAK ROOM-CONTINUOUS There is a single twin sized bed against the opposite wall with a make shift table at the head of the bed. Chase tosses his binder on the desk and kicks off his shoes. He sits cross-legged on the bed and shuts his eyes. Marissa remains standing. CHASE I like to come here and relieve my stress. I call it my zen room. MARISSA's pov: Chase takes deep breaths as if to mock methodical breathing patterns. MEDIUM CLOSE UP: marissa is shocked. FLASHBACK TO EARLIER: EXT. CAFETERIA DOORS/HALLWAY-EARLIER Marissa is squeezing Austin's hands on her shoulders as she walks in front of him. Austin lets go of her shoulders to walk side by side, he looks around. MARISSA Are you sure?! Did he explicitly say-- AUSTIN No, Marissa. Guys aren't that straightforward, but I am sure. He  likes you. He said he would've had you in and out of the "zen room" by now if he didn't. MARISSA Zen room? AUSTIN Remember? When he and Monique used to disappear every Wednesday? That's where they were... She crinkles her face in disgust. AUSTIN (joking) Hey, the life of a resident. Eat, sleep, and play when you can. She shoves him playfully and they continue down the hallway. FLASH TO THE PRESENT: INT. BREAK ROOM-CONTINUOUS MEDIUM CLOSE UP: Marissa's face is disgusted. CHASE Nice right? Here, sit. His eyes are still closed. He pats the space next to him. MARISSA Unbelievable. He finally opens his eyes. He furrows his brow in confusion. CHASE What? MARISSA Your zen room? Really? He uncrosses his legs and begins to stand. CHASE I thought you'd think it was funny. I know you're stressed and I'm-- MARISSA (disgusted) I don't know if you think this is some sort of game, but I'm not playing. Chase walks toward her, attempting to calm her, he reaches to touch her shoulder. She steps back. MARISSA (exploding) Don't touch me! CHASE Marissa, calm-- MARISSA I know I can be naive, and clearly gullible at times, but I am not stupid. Her eyes begin to water. Chase attempts to reach out to her again but she steps back, inching closer to the door. MARISSA (CONT'D) I won't report this because I'm not dropping out. I don't quit that easily. And you're not getting kicked out either... She nods her head. MARISSA (CONT'D) No. I needed this, I get it. She nods, assuring herself. MARISSA (CONT'D) We're gonna finish this and come graduation, I'm gonna take pleasure out of knowing I kicked your ass. Fair and square. She turns to leave. MARISSA (CONT'D) You are to tell no one of this. Library, third floor, ten o'clock. She opens the door and slams it shut. Chase stands in the middle of the room, dumbfounded. INT. HOSPITAL HALLWAY, OUTSIDE BREAK ROOM-CONTINUOUS Austin and Thompson are looking at the board displaying for daily surgical procedures. Thompson is surprised to see Marissa run out of the room, wiping her eyes. THOMPSON Marissa? Austin feigns confusion. AUSTIN What? Hey! He calls for Marissa, she does a double take before she stops. Austin and Thompson catch up to her. AUSTIN (CONT'D) (concerned) That was you in there yelling? THOMPSON You okay? MARISSA I'm fine. Chase walks out of the room stunned, he does not notice them to his right. Thompson turns to see Chase standing in the doorway of the break room. THOMPSON (CONT'D) Edwards? Chase looks to them. Austin looks at Marissa and then to Chase in disgust. AUSTIN You bastard! MARISSA Austin, stop! Austin rushes him, but Thompson stands between them. Chase accosts him. Bystanders turn toward the commotion. CHASE You set me up! Thompson pushes Chase backwards. THOMPSON Stop! AUSTIN I was trying to help you! Austin rushes Chase.  CHASE Bullshit! He told me to take you in there, Marissa. Marissa glares at Austin. Chase's angry eyes lock CHASE (CONT'D) Whatever he said about me don't believe any of it! Marissa-- An angry and confused Marissa turns to look at Chase. CHASE (to Marissa) Marissa, I swear I only wanted to help. I'd never want to hurt you. Chase and Marissa share a long look. Austin interrupts. AUSTIN Don't lie! You tried to take advantage of her! Thompson can no longer hold Chase back; he breaks through his grip. They scuffle. MARISSA Stop it, you idiots! Doctors and security rushes to break them up, Dr. Lee is present. Chase and Austin are pulled apart. DR. LEE (exploding) All of you! My office, now! The crowd disperses and the three students follow Dr. Lee like troubled children. INT. WAITING AREA OUTSIDE DR. LEE'S OFFICE-DAY Chase sits across from Marissa and Austin. Marissa is staring at the ground. Austin's arm is wrapped around Marissa's shoulders, rubbing her upper arm. Chase and Austin are tense, staring at each other. The door to Dr. Lee's office opens and Thompson walks out, he sits next to Chase. THOMPSON This is bullshit. AUSTIN What'd she say to you? The door to Dr. Lee's office opens again, Dr. Lee steps out. They all look up to her with a look of dread. DR. LEE This is clearly a game of he said, she said. Considering the fact that I hate games and I am a doctor, not a detective, I will not spend my day questioning your stories. One of you knows the truth... Chase eyes Austin. DR. LEE (CONT'D) So I've decided if one of you doesn't come forward and confesses by tomorrow, I will suspend all of you. The group simultaneously gasps in terror. THOMPSON Dr. Lee, please. I have nothing to do with this. I-- DR. LEE I've heard enough of your pleas, Thompson. Tomorrow morning I expect your cases to be completed, handed in one time, and I expect the truth. Thompson buries his face in his hands. Marissa's eyes begin to water again. Chase and Austin are still glaring at each other. DR. LEE (CONT'D) So, let your conscience be your guide...off you go. She turns to walk back into her office, leaving them in silence. Thompson shakes his head and speaks. THOMPSON I worked too hard to get here. None of this is my fault. He turns to Austin and Marissa. THOMPSON (CONT'D) I'm not losing my dream because you all. Sort this shit out. He gets up and exits, slamming the door behind him. Austin raises to chase after him. AUSTIN Thompson! He stops at the door to look back at Marissa, her eyes have yet to leave the ground. AUSTIN Come on, Marissa. She continues to look at the ground. MARISSA No. AUSTIN I'm not gonna leave you alone in a room with him, again. Please, come on. Chase glares at Austin, he stands and begins to walk toward the door. Austin squares his shoulders to assume a defensive stance. CHASE (stern, to Austin) I'll leave. I have a case I have to finish in order to complete my residency. AUSTIN We'll see about that. The two share a tense moment. Chase stops short of Austin guarding the door to turn back to Marissa. CHASE (to Marissa) I'll be on the third floor if you want to complete yours too. Marissa finally breaks from her trance and looks to Chase. Her eyes are welled with tears; she gives him a nod. He turns back to Austin, squares his shoulders, and bumps into him as he leaves. INT. CYBIL & GRACE HOSPITAL LIBRARY-NIGHT Chase and Marissa are seated at the same table in the library, vigorously reading, and writing. This time they sit across from each other. The silence of turned pages and pen etching into paper is broken when Chase’s stomach roars of hunger. Chase clinches his stomach attempting to muffle the noise; he continues to write. Marissa drops her pen and reaches into her bag. She pulls out two zip-loc bags containing sandwiches. MARISSA Study break. She tries to to hand him a sandwich. MARISSA (CONT'D) I always make an extra. Chase does not move, he keeps his eyes on his paper and continues highlighting. CHASE No, thanks. Marissa eyes Chase and takes a bite of her sandwich. She stares at his face. POV: Marissa sees chase's dark circles underneath his eyes, the corners of his eyelids are drooping. Chase's posture is sunken, his leg begins to shake. MARISSA You should eat something. She slides the zip loc across the table. CHASE I said I'm not hungry. Chase continues reading. MARISSA You're never hungry. I've seen you in the cafeteria and the most you eat is salad. CHASE (annoyed) Yeah so? Let's get back to this alright? It's due tomorrow. Chase shakes his head and continues to concentrate on his notes. Marissa is still analyzing him. MARISSA We're not gonna get anything done working under these conditions. CHASE Alright, give me the sandwich. He grabs the sandwich and takes a big bite, his mouth CHASE (CONT'D) (chewing) Now will you work? MARISSA We've been here for almost three hours and we have yet to talk about what happened. Chase keeps his eyes on the paper as he highlights. CHASE I didn't want to upset you again and affect your work. He looks up at her. She's staring at him, unsatisfied with his response. CHASE (CONT'D) You're looking for the truth, when you already know. MARISSA Do I? He drops his highlighter. CHASE Do you really know Austin? She squints her eyes. CHASE (CONT'D) He's not your friend. MARISSA I've known Austin for almost two and half years. CHASE He's an egotistical maniac trying to control everything, even you. She leans forward. MARISSA (confidently) No one and nothing controls me. Austin has been nothing but a friend to me. He's protective and I appreciate that. Chase rests his elbows on the table and leans forward. CHASE What type of friend creates an issue grave enough to cost you your dream and never once attempts to save you from all this trouble? Marissa opens her mouth to speak, but hesitates. CHASE (CONT'D) He's the reason all of our necks are on the chopping block. He fed us both lies, he set me up, and coincidentally was there to play your hero. Now look at us... He looks at the clock. 3:15 AM. CHASE (CONT'D) We're five hours away from all of our work evaporating because of his well crafted lie. MARISSA But why would he? CHASE Because he can't stand the fact that he's not who you want. Marissa is speechless. She shakes her head in disbelief. There is a moment of silence. MARISSA I need to get some air. She gets up from her seat and walks away, leaving him at the table alone. He sighs and runs his hands through his hair. He folds his arms, grabs his elbows and rests his forehead. His breathing becomes slow and shallow. EXT. RED RIVER-DAY The whizzing sound of a fishing line whines like an annoying horsefly until it plops like a stone into the depths of the river. The warm breeze rustles the willows as birds chirp and whistle like wind chimes. close up: montage of the still river and Red lure repeatedly plopping into the water, never catching a bite until it finally feels a tug. Taylor slowly cranks his handle, the sound of the crank clicks, clacks, clicks, clacks, clicks, cla--until it is abruptly silenced. Taylor tugs at the pole, but the line, tightens with resistance. Chase stops cranking his fishing pole and watches Taylor grow frustrated. CHASE Careful! TAYLOR Crap, I think the line's snagged. Taylor drops the pole and walks toward the river's shoreline. He begins to take off his shoes and socks. CHASE Wait, where are you going? TAYLOR To get the line back, it's Dad's favorite lure. Chase follows Taylor and tugs his shirt. Taylor continues to face the river. Chase grabs Taylor's wrist, tugging him away from the water. Chase tugs Taylor again. Chase's pov: Taylor has the same blue eyes. His freckled face is twisted in frustration, and stares back at Chase in annoyance. CHASE Taylor, you can't go in the river! Mom said... Taylor breaks free from Chase's grip and turns back to face the river. Taylor turns back to face Chase. TAYLOR Forget what Mom said...here we'll flip for it. Heads I go, tails we cut the line. Taylor removes the quarter from his pocket and flips it. CLOSE UP: the quarter shines in the sunlight. It flips in the air, tossing over and over until it falls. Taylor catches it neatly and slaps the decision onto the top of his palm. He uncovers it and Chase breathes a sigh of relief. CHASE It's tails...that means we cut the line! Taylor continues to take off his shirt. CHASE You said if it was tails you wouldn't go! Chase bites his lower lip looking out onto the river. WIDE: the river appears calm as it ripples with the rush of the wind. CHASE (CONT'D) Taylor, you can't. Taylor shoves the quarter into Chase's left pocket. TAYLOR The only real decisions you'll ever make in life are the ones that seem wrong... Chase stares at him. TAYLOR (CONT'D) I'll be right back. Mom is to never find out about this! Taylor rushes the river and begins to swim.  medium: Taylor's green shorts disappear for a few seconds. HE returns to the surface. He dives again. He rises to the surface and dives again. Chase scans the river for his brother. close up: Chase's eyes dart left and right. Taylor struggles to rise. His movement becomes less fluid and methodical. He is panicked. The sound of slapping water emanates as Taylor attempts to break the river's surface. Taylor's cries and gasps for air grow louder. Chase drops his fishing line and screams for his brother. Chase kicks off his shoes to rush the water, but he stops. CHASE (desperate) Taylor!! wide: the water is calm. Chase is frantic, his breathing is sporadic. He turns and sprints up the dirt path. His bare feet run along a river bank. His feet are hitting the dirt desperately fast. CHASE (screaming) Help!! INT. CYBIL & GRACE HOSPITAL LIBRARY-NIGHT, CONTINUOUS Marissa jumps in her seat while Chase screams into his folded arms. She is seated next to him. She places her hand on his shoulder to shake him awake. She wipes her fingertips together, they are moist from his sweat-soaked shirt. She continues to shake him until he gasps sitting upright. His chest rapidly rises and falls. He wipes away the sweat from his face and turns to Marissa, taking in his environment. CHASE (whispering) Shit. MARISSA Night terrors... Chase runs his hands through his wet hair and rests his elbows on the table. He buries his face into his palms. MARISSA Loss of appetite, lack of sleep, passive aggressiveness. It makes sense...and this started when you were eight? His face remains covered as he breathes into his hands. He shakes his head and leans back into his seat. He wipes his hands on his sides, feeling his left pocket. CHASE (hesitant) I can't. MARISSA Chase, you can tell me... Chase reaches into his pocket and removes the quarter, and places it in his right palm. Marissa stares at the quarter, then at him. Chase stares at the quarter. CLOSE UP: quarter in his palm. he clenches it in his fist. He flips it in the air and neatly slaps it on top of his left hand. Marissa places her hand over his right hand, covering the decision MARISSA What are you doing? CHASE Heads I tell you, tails we pretend like none of this happened. MARISSA What? She shakes her head. MARISSA (CONT'D) No, I don't make decisions based on chance and neither should you. CHASE No, whatever it says is meant to be. It's how it works... Marissa squeezes his hands. MARISSA That's not how it works. Life isn't a matter of heads or tails, Chase. We make choices and we live with them... She squeeze his hands again, he keeps staring at their hands. MARISSA (CONT'D) ...if we left everything up to a flip of a coin we'd just be reacting. That's not living... He opens his mouth, but doesn't speak. MARISSA (CONT'D) Deep down you know what you want the quarter to say anyway, so why not decide for yourself? CHASE I can't. MARISSA Okay, if it doesn't feel right then don't tell me. I'll respect your decision. Marissa starts to remove her hand. TAYLOR (O.S.) The only real decisions you'll ever make are the ones that seem wrong. Chase slips his right hand out from underneath to keep hers in place. Their hands rest on the table. Chases pauses with his eyes shut, and begins to speak. CHASE Taylor was my older brother. I watched him drown when I MEDIUM: marissa hanging onto every word he speaks. FADE OUT TO: INT. RESIDENT LOCKER ROOM-MORNING Chase's dialog continues as we see the vacant locker room. Neighboring cubbies are empty. CHASE (V.O.) ...we were out fishing alone when his line got caught. PAN MEDIUM: vacant lockers labeled for each resident. We stop at a locker labeled, "Chase Edwards." a hand removes his name tag. CHASE (V.O.) I told him to not go; I had a bad feeling. He tried to ease my anxiety with this same quarter... INT. DR. LEE'S OFFICE-CONTINUOUS Dr. Lee is seated at her desk signing papers. The tall windows behind her let in the morning sun. She lifts her head and mouths, "come in." We continue to hear Chase: CHASE (V.O.) ...even the quarter told him not to go, but he swam out anyway... Chase enters Dr. Lees office. He hands her the binder with the case study. Dr. Lee looks at her digital clock on her desk: 7:00 AM, she raises her eyebrows. She mouths, "you're early." CHASE (V.O.) He had a heart murmur. I guess when he realized how deep he was, he panicked and his heart gave out... Chase gestures for the chair, asking for permission, she nods and he sits. We see a serious-faced Chase begin to talk to Dr. Lee. CHASE (V.O.) I was convinced that had he listened to me and this goddamn quarter, he'd still be here... Dr. Lee is attentively listening to Chase's every word. FADE OUT TO: INT. HOSPITAL HALLWAY-LATER IN THE MORNING Dr. Lee is standing before Thompson, Marissa, and Austin. They are wearing regular clothes and still holding onto their backpacks and bags. Dr. Lee speaks and they each react: MEDIUM CLOSE UP: Thompson closes his eyes, breathes a sigh of relief and fist pumps; Austin lets on a sly smile; Marissa's face falls. CHASE (V.O.) But then I realized you were right... Marissa turns and runs down the hall. INT. RESIDENT LOCKER ROOM-CONTINUOUS Marissa bursts into the locker room. The other residents turn to see her rush to the locker Chase used to occupy. It is empty. She stares at it. CHASE (V.O.) I'd been reacting ever since I lost my brother. Flipping this coin is the reason why I even decided to come to med school, but then again it led me to you. And now to this decision... Marissa turns to walk to her locker. She unlocks it and folded paper comes gliding to the ground. On the outside it reads, "Marissa." She picks it up and opens it to read the same words we are hearing him speak: CHASE (V.O.) I'm leaving... CLose up: marissa's eyes scan the note. The other residents watch Marissa squint as she reads. Austin enters. CHASE (V.O.) You taught me a valuable lesson. In return, I hope I've given you a fair shot at accomplishing your dream. I explained everything to Lee... Austin reaches out to console her, but she slaps his hand and walks away. She sits on a bench and continues to read. EXT. RED RIVER-DAY Chase is seated at a bench underneath a willow tree. He overlooks the calm river before him. It is a beautiful day as the sun shines through the clouds. He closes his eyes to absorb the rays. CHASE (V.O.) Although I won't be there come graduation, take pleasure out of the fact that you did in fact beat me. You proved me wrong... Chase stands and walks to the river. He stops before the dirt begins to turn to wet mud. CHASE (V.O.) I never thought I'd be able to feel... He slips of his shoes and socks and walks forward. CLOSE UP: his feet submerge into the water. CHASE (V.O.) But I didn't realize I was simply choosing not to... He looks out toward the river. He reaches into his CHASE (V.O.) I have you to thank for giving me something new to hold on to, so thank you... He stares at his hand. CHASE (V.O.) You're gonna make a great doctor some day and any guy will be lucky to have you. I know you always tried, but I'm sorry I wasn't ready to be that guy for you... CLose up: quarter in his hand. He flings it into the air. CHASE (V.O.) Maybe, when the time is right, our paths will cross again. CLOSE UP: the quarter shines in the sunlight. It flips in the air, tossing over and over. CHASE (V.O.) Until then...take care of yourself, Chase. CUT TO BLACK: A PLOPPING NOISE, AS IF A ROCK HAS BEEN D