"TO LOVE AGAIN"

By

Ali Habib Emeka

08136633229
0819123741997
[Link]@[Link]
 FADE IN:

1 EXT. CITY- DAY

We open with an aerial view of Lekki, Lagos. Landmarks.

High-rise buildings. The sea. Recreational parks.
We settle on an establishment of residential buildings in
Phase 1.

2 INT. LIVING ROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- CONTINUOUS

MARIAH, a beautiful, classy young lady cuddles with VIC,
her hunk of a boyfriend, on a plush three-seater. A large
flat-screen TV hangs on a marble-tiled wall. Below it sits
an expensive tabletop with a decoder. A sound system
stands guard on both sides of the tabletop. Vases and
paintings ornate the large living room, paired with
leather furniture. A large photo of Agnes, her mother,
with a heavy-set man in a suit, dominates the living room,
adding style to an already impressive, high-class home
setting.
A footstool sits close to the couple. Mariah scoops coated
peanuts from the bowl on it, and teases Vic with the nut.
They laugh as they play-fight on the couch.
MARIAH
(laughs)
Stop tickling me, Vic...

VIC
As if you don’t like it.
MARIAH
So, I should let you kill me?

VIC
Then you’d die for the best
reason in the world....love.
Vic kisses her gently. Mariah snuggles closer to him.

MARIAH
God... I can’t wait to be married
to you. I can just picture our
wedding day. White
dress...flowers...a huge chapel.
It would be a dream come true.

VIC
Our dream come true.
They gaze into each other’s eyes for a moment.

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 2.

VIC (CONT’D)
God... I get so lost in those
beautiful eyes. Nothing in this
world can make me trade my love
for you, Mariah.

MARIAH
You really mean that, Vic...
VIC
With all my heart. I can’t
imagine having anyone else but
you....
Mariah gazes deeply into Vic’s eyes and they kiss
passionately. They don’t hear AGNES, Mariah’s gorgeous
mother, step down from the stairs. She clears her throat
and they break, awkwardly adjusting their clothing.
MARIAH
Oh... Hi, mom.

AGNES
Hi, Mariah.
VIC
Good afternoon, Mrs. Agwu.

AGNES
Vic. I see you’re still here.
Vic shifts in his seat, glancing akwardly. His presence is
obviously not welcome by Agnes.

VIC
Babe, I have to go now.
MARIAH
What? Why?

VIC
I uh...have stuff to do...
Vic gets up before Mariah can stop him.

VIC (CONT’D)
I’ll see you later?
MARIAH
(sulks)
Okay... I love you.

VIC
(smiles)
I love you too.
He quickly makes his way out the living room. The door
shuts. Mariah turns to her mom.
(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 3.

MARIAH
That wasn’t cool, mom.
Agnes feigns clueless.

AGNES
What did I do?
MARIAH
You know what you did, mom. Vic
left because of you.
AGNES
Well, if he left, it was because
his conscience doesn’t allow him.

MARIAH
Mom!
AGNES
I’m just saying he should have
other things to do besides
cuddling with his girlfriend all
day, at her mother’s house, mind
you.
MARIAH
So, you’re being mean because
this is your house.
AGNES
First, I’m not being mean. I’m
being protective. And second, if
he wants to suck your face as
much as he wants, he should at
least pay your bride price. Don’t
you think?
Agnes rolls her eye and heads to the kitchen before Mariah
can say anything else.

3 EXT. CITY- NIGHT

Overview of Lagos Island at night.

4 INT. DINING AREA- AGNES’S HOUSE- NIGHT

Agnes and Mariah eat dinner at the table.

MARIAH
Mom... You know how I feel about
Vic. Someday he’s gonna become
your son in-law. You should start
treating him better.

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 4.

AGNES
(feigns ignorance)
I don’t know what you’re talking
about, sweetie.

MARIAH
Really? So, I’m the only one who
feels the room go minus zero
degrees every time you walk in on
us?

AGNES
It’s not like that at all.
Look.... It’s just you and I now.
I can’t be the over-accommodating
mom, you know? I must show
strictness.
MARIAH
Yeah, but you don’t have to be
all ’Mrs Dracula’ about it.

Agnes laughs.
MARIAH (CONT’D)
Why don’t you like him? Maybe
it’s something we can work on.

AGNES
It’s not that I don’t like him. I
mean, you do, so why shouldn’t I?
Mariah observes her mom keenly for a moment. Agnes
notices.

AGNES (CONT’D)
Okay, fine. I’ll be nicer to Vic.
deal?

MARIAH
(beams)
Deal.
Agnes shakes her head, amused.

MARIAH
Oh, Mom, any special plans for
tomorrow’s anniversary?
Agnes pauses, and reflects for a bit. Mariah notices and
stops eating. Agnes realizes Mariah has detected her mood
change. She smiles.
AGNES
No, dear. Same as always.
Mariah observes her mother deeply for a moment. She
continues eating.
 5.

5 EXT. CITY- DAY

Overview of Ikoyi, Lagos.

6 EXT. CEMETERY- DAY

Mariah and Agnes stand before a tombstone. The ladies
reflect as they observe the grave in silence. Agnes gently
places a bouquet at the foot of it.

AGNES
Your father was an exceptional
man. And he left big shoes for me
to fill. Not that it was his
fault....

MARIAH
You’ve done tremendously well,
Mom. He’d be proud of you.
AGNES
I know it’s been fifteen years,
but... I still miss him
sometimes.
MARIAH
Me too....
The ladies stand in silence for a bit. Agnes shakes the
gloom off, and smiles.
AGNES
Well.... He’d want us to keep his
memory in happy heads, no?
Mariah giggles softly.
AGNES (CONT’D)
How about you and I go have a
couple of drinks? And then a
couple more, in his name?
MARIAH
Now, that’s a swell way to honor
his memory.
Agnes chuckles softly and they slowly head off, the grave
in their wake.

7 EXT. CITY- DAY

An overview of high-rise Marina, Lagos.
 6.

8 INT. LOBBY- OFFICE BUILDING- DAY

A group of men and women in corporate wear step out of a
conference room. Mariah follows. Some of them shake her
hand and head out. She picks her phone out of her bag and
dials ’Vic’. It rings. No response. She tries again. It
rings. No response. She types a text on her WhatsApp.
MARIAH(POP-UP)
Hey, babe.... Closed from my
meeting early. Coming over. I’ve
got great news.
Mariah puts the phone back in her bag and heads out.

9 EXT. PREMISES- OFFICE BUILDING- CONTINUOUS

Mariah steps out of the building doors, and onto the
premises. She opens the door to a white Range Rover Sport
and steps in. The car drives out the complex.

10 INT. MARIAH’S CAR- CONTINUOUS

Mariah drives in a happy mood.

ON THE ROAD, the car cruises past a smooth traffic.

11 EXT. PREMISES- STORE- LATER

The car pulls up a super-mart. Mariah steps down and
enters. She steps out, moments later with a nylon bag, and
enters the car.
INSIDE THE CAR, Mariah takes out a bottle of wine and a
pack of chocolate from the nylon bag. She observes it and
smiles. She drops it on the passenger seat and starts the
engine.
The car pulls out the parking lot and drives off.

12 INT. MARIAH’S CAR- LATER

Mariah types on her phone as she drives.

MARIAH (POP-UP)
Heading your way, babe.

She drops the phone and focuses on the road.

 7.

13 EXT. STREET- MOMENTS MINUTES LATER

The car pulls up a building. Mariah steps out with the
nylon bag, and enters the gate of a large residential
building.

14 INT. LIVING ROOM- VIC’S APARTMENT- CONTINUOUS

Mariah enters a tastefully furnished living room and drops
her bag. She glances around, and take the wine and box of
chocolate out the nylon. She heads to the bedroom.

15 INT. BEDROOM- VIC’S APARTMENT- CONTINUOUS

Mariah opens the bedroom door and enters, without looking.
She shuts it and turns as she speaks.
MARIAH
Hey, babe! Have I got god news
for you-

She freezes, and the wine bottle drops from her grasp. Vic
rushes off a Ruby, slutty-looking woman. They cover up
their nakedness at the sight of her.
Mariah’s face grows pale with shock. Vic glances from
Ruby, to Mariah, to Ruby again. Mariah’s lips quiver as
her eyes well up. She pinches herself, to come out of this
nightmare.
VIC
Babe... Wait... Shit....
Mariah...
Ruby glances from Vic to Mariah, angry.
RUBY
Vic! Who’s this mannerless
person?
Mariah’s shock slowly gives way to anger. Ruby turns to
her.
RUBY (CONT’D)
Hey! Get out of here! Can’t you
see that you’re trespassing?! I
mean, how did you even get in?!
Mariah’s face grows hot with rage. She charges to the
bedside and pulls Ruby off the bed. Vic jumps off the
other side as Mariah drags Ruby across the room and
pummels her. Vic tries to pull Mariah off but is
unsuccessful, as she screams in anger and beats Ruby
mercilessly. Ruby manages to break free and lands a few
blows on Mariah, but they barely shake her. She’s maddened
with rage.
 8.

Vic manages to break them off, and Mariah’s eyes blaze

with fury. She marches out of the bedroom, and Vic goes
after her

16 INT. LIVING ROOM- VIC’S APARTMENT- CONTINUOUS

Mariah marches out the bedroom, enraged and Vic
desperately follows behind.

VIC
Mariah... Darling.... Wait... Let
me expla-
Mariah’s heavy slap cuts his words short. She glares at
him with teary eyes.

MARIAH
Don’t ever....call me again!
Mariah storms out of the apartment. Vic stares at the
door, dumbfounded.

17 INT. BEDROOM- VIC’S APARTMENT- MOMENTS LATER

Vic slowly closes the bedroom door. His foot kicks
something and he looks down. It’s the box of chocolate
lying on the floor. The bottle of wine rests at a corner
of the wall.
Vic notices Ruby packing her stuff.

VIC
Ruby.... Wait...
RUBY
Wait for what, Vic?! Who the heck
was that?!! And what business did
she have being here?!!
VIC
It’s a bit complicated but I can
explain.

RUBY
Why am I even asking when it’s so
obvious you’re seeing someone
else?!
VIC
Ruby, please calm down...
RUBY
Calm down?! Look at me!! You know
what? I’ve had it with this
shit!!
 9.

Ruby grabs her bag and storms out, leaving Vic confused
and disappointed.

18 INT. MARIAH’S BEDROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- HOURS LATER

Mariah cries into her pillow, as Agnes consoles her.
MARIAH
How could he do this to me? After
all I’ve done, after all the time
we’ve put into this...?
AGNES
I’m so sorry, my love. I knew
that animal was up to no good
from the first day I set my eyes
on his greedy ass.
MARIAH
I think it’s too late to say ’I
told you so’, mom.

AGNES
Except I did. Well..., not
directly, but I never like that
man. He always looked like he
wanted to pick someone’s pocket
or something.
Mariah sobs heavily again.
AGNES (CONT’D)
Come now, child... It’s okay. No
man is worth all this grief.
MARIAH
How do I come back from this,
Mom? Two years of my life and I
didn’t know I was wasting it on
that ungrateful scum!
AGNES
It’s alright, dear. You will.
Trust me. I speak from
experience, remember?
Mariah glances affectionately at her mom. Agnes embraces
her and consoles her deeply.

19 EXT. PREMISES- AGNES’S HOUSE- DAY

Vic hurries to the door and knocks several times. It
opens, and Agnes steps out. Vic makes to talk, but Agnes
slaps him hard on the cheek. Vic stands, mute.

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 10.

AGNES
You’ve got a lot of nerve coming
here. I have half the mind to
stab you where you stand.

VIC
Mrs. Agwu, I need to see her.
Please-
AGNES
You’re in no position to make
demands, you swine! Now, leave,
before I break your head!
Mariah steps out of the door, wondering what the commotion
was about. She sees Vic and freezes. Vic kneels.

VIC
Mariah.... My Mariah... Please,
let me explain what happened.
MARIAH
(laughs mockingly)
Explain? What are you going to
say? That the lady magically
appeared in your bed, naked?!

VIC
Emm.... No, but trust me, there’s
a perfect explanation for all
this.
MARIAH
Trust you?! I did that! For two
years, you bastard!!
Agnes scowls as she stands solidly behind her daughter.
VIC
Babe.. Please... Remember all the
plans we had. All the babies we
planned to make?
MARIAH
Well, you seem to have moved
ahead with that plan, considering
you were shagging another woman
two days ago!! Look... I don’t
want to see you, I don’t want to
hear from you... Get out of here.

VIC
(pauses)
Babe-

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 11.

Mariah barges into the house, leaving Vic on his knees.

Agnes scowls at him. Vic looks away, ashamed. Mariah comes
out, moments later, with a pot of hot water. Vic sees it
and dashes off just as she pours it at him, and dodges it.
He rushes out the gate. Agnes is shocked.
MARIAH
No, wait! Wait, let me change
your skin color right now! Fool!!

Mariah flings the saucepan at his direction, and heaves

with rage. Agnes stares at her, dumbfounded. Mariah
notices.
MARIAH (CONT’D)
What?!

AGNES
Nothing. It’s just.... that was
my pasta water.
Mariah stares at her mom in disbelief, and picks the
saucepan. She heads inside, and Agnes joins her,
concerned.

20 INT. LIVING ROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- NIGHT

Mariah curls on the couch, in pajamas, sad. Agnes comes

in, returning from an outing. She stops as she notices
Mariah.
AGNES
Hello, sweetheart...
MARIAH
Hey, mom...
Agnes slowly approaches her, puzzled.

AGNES
A little early to be in PJs...
Wait, haven’t you changed all
day?

Mariah doesn’t respond. Agnes can’t believe it.

AGNES (CONT’D)
Sweetie, it’s weekend. Do
something fun. Go clubbing, visit
the spa... Anything to get
yourself out of this funk.
MARIAH
(rolls eyes)
Not interested, mom.
 12.

Mariah gets up and heads to her bedroom before Agnes can

offer a counter statement.

21 INT. MARIAH’S OFFICE- DAY

Mariah sits in a compact but spacious one-room office,
staring at a laptop. A tower of files stands on her table.
Mariah rubs her eyes in frustration, finding it hard to
focus on work.

Her phone rings. She sees who it is and winces. She

reluctantly picks.
MARIAH
Hello, sir.... I know.... I’m
really sorry, I’ve just been
swamped lately.... I know it’s a
few days behind the deadline.....
I promise to get it to you
tomorrow.... I know.... Okay...
Again, I’m truly sorry.... Thank
you..., bye.
The call hangs up, and Mariah slowly drops the phone. She
runs her hand over her head. She sits back and her mind
drifts off at thoughts of Vic.

22 EXT. OFFICE BUILDING- DAY

A huge building with glass walls stands tall over fenced
complex, filled with cars.

23 INT. CONFERENCE ROOM- OFFICE BUILDING- DAY

A group of men and women pitch ideas for a project.

MAN #1
Yes, I believe if we push the
budget up by 12%, we can get more
traffic, and preserve the
expenses. The brand wins on both
ends.

WOMAN #1
Still, you must note that any
request for an increment in ad
cost may not sit well with the
clients. I suggest we stick to
the original budget and perhaps
hire level B models.
MAN #1
But with that option comes the
risk of gambling with audience
(MORE) (CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 13.

MAN #1 (cont’d)
reaction, we might lose out on
that aspect, especially with an
unfamiliar face.

The rest chip in audibly at the debate. Mariah, sits

still, her mind adrift, her face sad; oblivious of the
activity around her.

24 INT. DINING AREA- AGNES’S HOUSE- EVENING

Agnes sets up dinner at the table and goes upstairs.

25 INT. HALLWAY- AGNES’S HOUSE- CONTINUOUS

Agnes reaches Mariah’s door, and knocks.

AGNES
Mariah? Sweetie? Come down for
dinner.

No response. Agnes stares at the door for a moment,

concerned. She sighs, and heads back downstairs. We focus
on the door.

26 INT. MARIAH’S BEDROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- CONTINUOUS

We slowly pan out from the door and establish on Mariah,
laying on the bed, crying heavily.

27 EXT. CITY- DAY

A panoramic view of Lagos Island.

28 INT. MARIAH’S BEDROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- DAY

Mariah lies on her bed, her mind adrift. She has no makeup
on, and is in her pajamas. A knock on the door is followed
by Agnes. She observes Mariah with concern for a moment,
and approaches the bed.

AGNES
Mariah....It’s been a month. You
can’t keep living like this.
Mariah doesn’t respond. Agnes sits next to her on the bed.

AGNES (CONT’D)
What Vic did to you was
unthinkable, but...it shouldn’t
stop you from living your life.

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 14.

MARIAH
I don’t know how to, mom.
Everyday, I’m reminded by this
ache in my soul that I wasn’t
good enough for him. And it gets
worse by the minute.
Mariah curls into a ball. Agnes sighs.
AGNES
Listen, sweetie... You’ve faced
tougher challenges than this.
And, as I recall, this isn’t your
first breakup.
MARIAH
It’s not the same, mom. With Vic,
it was different.
AGNES
Yes, maybe, but... the hurt’s
still from the same place. And if
you could survive the last time,
you can survive again. Come...
Agnes brings her to sit, and Mariah reluctantly complies.

AGNES (CONT’D)
...You are the strongest woman
I’ve ever known. Second to me, of
course.
Mariah chuckles softly at her mother’s joke.

AGNES (CONT’D)
Nothing in this world is too big
for you to handle. And no pain is
too hard for you to overcome.
Okay?

Mariah stares at her hands for a moment, depressed. She

looks at her mom.
MARIAH
Where do I even start, mom?

Agnes smiles warmly.

AGNES
One step at a time, my love. Find
the simplest things and pick it
up from there, yeah?
Mariah nods, as she fights back her tears. Agnes pulls her
in and embraces her warmly. She strokes her hair as Mariah
rests safely in her mother’s bosom.
 15.

29 INT. MARIAH’S BEDROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- DAY

The alarm sounds and Mariah turns it off. She gets up and
makes her way to the bathroom. Moments later, she steps
out wet, and with towels around her body and head.
Mariah sits in front of the dresser to moisturize. She
observes herself in the mirror, and her mind drifts for a
moment. Mariah shakes it off and applies her makeup.

30 INT. LIVING ROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- AN HOUR LATER

Mariah steps down the stairs into the living room. Agnes
is at a small but stylish study table, at a corner of the
living room, with a cup of coffee and her phone. She
notices Mariah come to her.
AGNES
Good morning, sweetie.
MARIAH
Good morning, mom. I gotta run.
AGNES
Aren’t you going to eat something
first?

MARIAH
Can’t. Got a pile waiting at the
office. I’ll pick something up on
the way.

Mariah pecks her mom on the cheek and makes to the door.
AGNES
Mariah?
Mariah turns urgently.

AGNES (CONT’D)
One step at a time..., okay?
Mariah smiles and nods. Agnes sips her coffee, hopeful.

31 INT. MARIAH’S OFFICE- DAY

Mariah works tirelessly on her laptop. She reads through
files and makes phone calls. She checks some emails on her
laptop, with utmost concentration.
 16.

32 INT. CONFERENCE ROOM- OFFICE BUILDING- DAY

Mariah shares a suggestion at a business meeting. The
other participants listen with keen interest. Mariah
expresses her suggestion with confidence and focus.

The man in the main seat nods in approval of her

suggestions. Mariah points some sections on a document for
him, and he signs them. He gets up and they shake hands.
She smiles brightly at him.

33 INT. DINING AREA- AGNES’S HOUSE- EVENING

Agnes heads down the stairs and makes for the kitchen. She
stops as she notices something in the dining area. She
approaches. Agnes smiles as she watches Mariah set up
dinner. Agnes observes her with affection for a moment,
goes to her. Mariah notices and they exchange pleasantries
as they sit to eat.

34 EXT. CITY- DAY

Overview of the city.

35 EXT. ROAD- DAY

We establish on JAMAL, an athletic, handsome young man,

walking at the side of the road, under the sunny weather,
with a laptop bag strapped to his arm. His mood is
ponderous, and downcast.

Jamal stops as he catches an unusual sight. Mariah fights

with the wrench as she struggles to change a flat tire of
her car. Jamal curiously observes her.
Mariah turns the wrench but the bolt doesn’t give. She
straightens, frustrated and sweaty. Her back hurts. Mariah
tries the wrench again.
JAMAL (VOICE)
You’re turning it the wrong way.
Mariah stops and turns to see Jamal curiously watching
her.
JAMAL (CONT’D)
You’re supposed to turn right to
tighten, and left to loosen.

Mariah rolls her eyes, and returns to working the wrench.

MARIAH
Thanks.

Mariah struggles to turn the wrench.

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 17.

JAMAL
Even if you did manage to unscrew
the bolts..., you can’t remove
the tire. You didn’t use a jack.

Mariah straightens up, irritated.

MARIAH
Noted. Now, don’t you have
somewhere to be other than
taunting me here?
JAMAL
I...wasn’t taunting you, Miss.
Just telling you how it’s done.

MARIAH
(sarcastic)
Right...
Mariah makes to return to the tire.

JAMAL
How about I help you do it?
Something tells me you’ve never
done this before.

Mariah turns to him. Jamal’s face is softer, more

concerned now.
JAMAL (CONT’D)
It won’t be fair to leave you
struggling when I can help, now
would it?
Mariah sighs softly and accepts. Jamal drops his laptop
bag and goes to the trunk. He brings the jack and raises
the car. Then, he collects the tire wrench.

Mariah watches as Jamal works the tire bolts faster than

anticipated. At some point, she was almost fascinated.
Jamal removes the flat tire and fits the spare. He gets up
to a relieved Mariah.
MARIAH
Wow... That was....quick.
Jamal smiles and picks his laptop bag. He returns the flat
tire and tools to the trunk. Mariah is still observing the
changed tire. She turns to thank Jamal but finds him gone.

Jamal walks along the road, shielding his face from the
sun. Mariah’s Range Rover Sport slows down beside him. She
horns and he notices. The window slides down.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 18.

MARIAH (CONT’D)
Hey. You didn’t let me say thank
you.

JAMAL
(smiles)
You didn’t have to.
MARIAH
But I wanted to.

Jamal nods, and makes to go.

MARIAH (CONT’D)
If you don’t mind..., can I give
you a ride?

Jamal raises a brow, questioning.

MARIAH (CONT’D)
Consider it a thank you. Please?

Jamal shrugs and steps into the car. It drives off.

36 INT. MARIAH’S CAR- CONTINUOUS

Mariah and Jamal drive together in silence.

MARIAH
I’m Mariah, by the way.
JAMAL
Oh, cool. I’m Jamal.
MARIAH
Pleasure to meet you, Jamal.
JAMAL
Likewise.
Another round of awkward silence.
MARIAH
So, I seem to notice how quickly
you fixed the tire. Experience,
maybe?
JAMAL (CONT’D)
Woah! I’m not a mechanic. How
could you imply that?

MARIAH
(embarrassed)
That wasn’t what I meant... Oh,
my God...

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 19.

JAMAL
(laughs)
I’m kidding. Relax.

Mariah relaxes and laughs.

MARIAH
Funny guy, huh?
JAMAL
I’m actually a PR specialist.
Graduated with a Communications
degree.
MARIAH
No way! I’m a Comms grad myself!

JAMAL
Really?
MARIAH
Yeah! I run my own practice on
media consultancy down at Marina.
JAMAL
That’s really amazing. I’m
currently returning from a
proposal I pitched. Back at G2K
Properties?
MARIAH
Wow... That’s bold. How did it
go?

JAMAL
Meh... I’m not too sold on their
reception. You know how these Old
World companies work? They still
live exclusively on newspaper ads
and stereotypical commercials.
MARIAH
(laughs)
But you feel different?

JAMAL
Of course! The world has gone
fully digital now. Social media
accounts, online influencers,
even memes can get you incredible
public attention, if you know how
to use them.
Mariah nods, impressed.

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 20.

MARIAH
You know... I made a similar
statement while talking with the
General Manager last week.

JAMAL
(in disbelief)
You know the General Manager of
G2K Properties?

MARIAH
Did a gig for him some years
back. We’re sorta close.
JAMAL
Wow... That must be something,
right?
MARIAH
He’s cool, but he’s barely in
control of the place. Dances to
the tunes of the board, which is,
in turn, full of...how did you
put it? ’Old World’ people?
They laugh heartily at her statement.
JAMAL
That’s my stop.
ON THE ROAD, Mariah’s car pulls to a stop.
INSIDE THE CAR, they sit silently for a while. Mariah
smiles.

MARIAH
It was nice meeting you, Jamal.
And thanks again for the help.

JAMAL
Likewise with the ride.
Mariah smiles,and Jamal alights.
OUTSIDE THE CAR, Jamal closes the car door. Mariah makes
to drive off.
JAMAL (CONT’D)
Hey... If it’s not too forward,
can I give you my number?

Mariah raises an eyebrow.

JAMAL (CONT’D)
I mean... you’re grounded in the
media industry. Maybe if you find
something solid, you could give
me a heads-up.
(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 21.

Mariah smiles faintly, more impressed. She hands her phone

to Jamal, who collects it and types in his number. He
hands it to her. She checks it.

JAMAL (CONT’D)
You can save it as ’Jamal Flat
Tire’, so you’ll know it’s me.
MARIAH
(laughs)
I’ll keep that in mind.
Jamal grins and waves. Mariah’s car pulls out onto the
road and drives off, as Jamal watches.

37 INT. LIVING ROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- EVENING

Mariah enters the living room, exhausted. She finds Agnes
at the corner table, reading a document through her
glasses. Mariah goes to her.

MARIAH
Hey, mom.
AGNES
Hey, Mariah dear. How was work?

MARIAH
So so.
They hug. Mariah sits.

MARIAH (CONT’D)
What’s up?
AGNES
Oh, just going through the
numbers. The brokers stopped by
today.
MARIAH
Oh... Cool.
Mariah gets up and heads to the kitchen. Agnes reads on
with the document. Mariah returns with a glass of juice.
She sips as she sits. Agnes observes her for a moment. She
glances around, as if to find the right words.
AGNES
Um... Mariah?

MARIAH
Hmm?

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 22.

AGNES
I’ve....been meaning to ask you
something.
Mariah gives her mom an inquiring look. Agnes glances
cautiously, slightly embarrassed.
AGNES (CONT’D)
How would you feel if I....say
I’m...willing to date again?

Mariah glances around, confused.

MARIAH
I’d say it’s perfectly normal. I
mean, you’re still....well...
look at you.
Agnes sighs, relieved, and chuckles at Mariah’s
compliment.
MARIAH (CONT’D)
Why did you think you needed to
ask me, mom?
AGNES
(sighs)
Well... You’ve just gotten out of
a really bad breakup, and I
didn’t want it to seem like a man
is coming between us. Besides, I
was willing to wait until you
marry and move out before
considering the thought of dating
again.
MARIAH
Mom... That doesn’t bother me at
all. You’re free to do whatever
you want. It’s your house. Plus,
I’m a big girl. I can handle
seeing you with another man. So
long as it makes you happy.
AGNES
Really? Oh, that’s great! Thank
you, sweetie. You know, I’ve been
pretty nervous about this whole
thing. I’ve even been trying to
find my way around this dating
app I registered in-

MARIAH
(snickers loudly)
What? A dating app? Mom! You’re
like super rich and extremely
gorgeous, why use a dating app?

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 23.

AGNES
Well, the relationship blog I
read says it’s the new
up-and-coming way to get the
perfect partner these days.
MARIAH
Ignore those silly clickbaits,
mom. With your class and status,
you can walk into any place and
step out with at least 30 phone
numbers.
AGNES
(blushes)
Aww... You really think so?

MARIAH
Yeah. Or..., if your real reason
is to, you know, ’oil the
engine’, you could even get a
young stud. Or two. (winks)

Agnes stares at Mariah, confused for a moment. She gets

her reference.
AGNES
A boytoy? That’s disgusting,
dear. I don’t want that! I want
something real. Something that
may even lead to marriage
someday. Not just to be pounded
like a mortar.

MARIAH
Ooh... But you’d still like to be
pounded like a mortar as well,
right?

AGNES
That’s not the point, you
dirty-minded woman! God!
Mariah laughs loudly at Agnes’s squeamish.

MARIAH
Fine, mom. A real boyfriend is
good. But a knack buddy is also
good, so think about it. (gets
up) I wanna go take a shower.

Agnes replies her.

AGNES
There’s nothing to think about.
And wash your mind while you’re
at it. Yuck.
 24.

Mariah giggles loudly as she heads up the stairs.

38 INT. MARIAH’S BEDROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- NIGHT

Mariah climbs the bed and picks her phone. She opens her
WhatsApp and scrolls through the contacts until she comes
across Jamal’ number. Mariah smiles. She clicks on it and
types.

MARIAH (POP-UP)
Hey, Jamal Flat Tire.
She smiles to herself.
JAMAL (POP-UP)
*LOL emoji* Hi, Mariah. How’s it
going?
Mariah types.
MARIAH (POP-UP)
Fine.... Can we meet on Thursday?
I may have something for you.
Mariah waits for a moment.

JAMAL (POP-UP)
Sure! Where?
Mariah types.
MARIAH (POP-UP)
I’ll text you the location
tomorrow.
Mariah waits.
JAMAL (POP-UP)
Awesome. *HAPPY emoji*
Mariah chuckles. She drops the phone on the side table and
prepares to sleep.

39 INT. RESTAURANT- DAY

Mariah and Jamal have lunch at a classy restaurant. Jamal
had just finished a funny story. Mariah laughs extremely
loud.

JAMAL
(laughing)
I tell you, the things I’ve seen
during proposals.

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 25.

MARIAH
That’s nothing. I once had a
client who almost passed out at a
meeting when he heard the model
asked for two million. He went
like, ’Just to Shine Teeth’?

JAMAL
(laughs)
Toothpaste commercial?
MARIAH
(laughs)
Exactly. You should’ve seen the
faces of the Head Marketer. He
wanted to burst.
They laugh heartily, Mariah’s, surprisingly louder for a
classy lady. The laughter dies down. Jamal sighs.
JAMAL
It’s funny now when we think
about it but... the truth is most
companies would rather pay
pennies than appreciate the hard
work.
Jamal’ mind drifts at the statement, and Mariah notices.
MARIAH
Which brings me to why I called
you. I.... have an offer.
JAMAL
Okay, I’m all ears.

MARIAH
Well, as you know, I own my media
consultancy firm. And I get lots
of clients, sometimes, more than
I can even handle alone. I wanted
to ask if....you’d be willing
to...work for me.
Jamal frowns slightly, surprised by the offer. He glances
around a bit, finding the right words.

JAMAL
Okay... What’s the work
environment like?
MARIAH
Well, I don’t have any staff. So
most times, it’ll be just you and
I all throughout the working
hours. Minus visiting clients, of
course.

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 26.

JAMAL
Woah... Wouldn’t that spell
disaster for a married woman? I
mean, I know lots of men who
don’t subscribe to their wives
working at close quarters with
another man. Wouldn’t your
husband mind?
Mariah smiles sadly as she ponders for a moment.

MARIAH
I’m not married.
Jamal is surprised.

MARIAH (CONT’D)
I mean, I was going to... I had a
boyfriend but... It didn’t work
out.
JAMAL
Oh... I’m sorry... In that case,
I guess I could work with you.
MARIAH
Really? And your wife wouldn’t
mind that you’re working alone
with a woman?
JAMAL
Me? Wife? (laughs) I’m not
married. Im not even dating.

MARIAH
Really? I find that hard to
believe.
JAMAL
I mean, I have lots of female
friends, but it comes with the
job, being online most of the
time.
MARIAH
Yeah, I get that. Sometimes,
you’re too busy to go out, so you
work and socialize at the same
time online.
JAMAL
Exactly. Funny thing, some even
assume we’re dating just because
I’m being friendly. But that’s
their problem. I’ve never been
comfortable with distant
relationships, and that’s not
about to change.
(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 27.

MARIAH
(laughs)
It is crazy, isn’t it. (pause)
So..., it’s a deal then?

Jamal observes her for a moment. He smiles, and extends a

hand. She takes it and they shake on it.

40 INT. MARIAH’S OFFICE- DAY

Mariah and Jamal check out her office.

MARIAH
So, this is our working space.
We’ve got everything necessary.
Printers, fax machines, at least
6 different grades of laptops for
every use. Even a mini fridge,
over there.
JAMAL
When you said your space was
small....this wasn’t what I had
in mind, Mariah.
MARIAH
(giggles)
Trust me. Compared to what I’m
planning, this is a cubicle.
A knock on the door and they turn to see Agnes step in.
AGNES
Hello... Am I interrupting?
MARIAH
(giggles)
Not at all. This is Jamal, we’ll
be working together. Jamal, this
is Agnes Agwu. My mother.
Jamal is taken aback. He extends a hand. Agnes takes it.
JAMAL
Wow....I see where you got the
looks from, Mariah. It’s nice to
meet you, Mrs. Agwu.
AGNES
Ooh... He’s a gentleman, this
one. And please, Agnes’s fine.
JAMAL
Indeed she is.
Agnes gives Mariah a bashful look. They giggle.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 28.

JAMAL (CONT’D)
Please... Ignore me. I get that
way when I’m nervous.

AGNES
No, it’s alright. You spoke your
mind. I like that.
MARIAH
So, where are you headed, mom?

AGNES
I had some business to take care
of at the company, so I thought
I’d stop by and see how my baby’s
doing.

MARIAH
I’m doing alright mom. Now that
Jamal is here, hopefully I won’t
work overtime as I used to.

JAMAL
Yeah, don’t worry, Mrs Agwu. I’ll
make sure she comes home earlier
from now on.

AGNES
I’ll hold you to that, Jamal.
JAMAL
Oh, in that case, I make it my
sworn duty.

Jamal salutes with playful seriousness. Agnes laughs at

his gesture.
AGNES
He’s funny. Alright, you two. Let
me not hold you too much. I’ll
see you at home, Mariah. Jamal...
it was nice to meet you.
Jamal grins brightly and bows at Agnes. Mariah waves her
mom as she leaves.

41 EXT. CITY- DAY

Overview of the city.
 29.

42 INT. LIVING ROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- DAY

Mariah sluggishly makes her way to the couch. Agnes comes
to her from the kitchen with a steaming mug.

AGNES
Here. Drink this. It’ll help
clear the sinuses.
Mariah drinks it and squints. She drops the mug. Agnes
sits next to her. Mariah’s phone rings and she picks.
MARIAH
Hey, Jamal.... Yeah... I’m a bit
under the weather... I should
feel better in the
evening....Okay, yes. You can
drop them off at my house....
Alright. (hangs up)
She hands the phone over to her mom.

MARIAH (CONT’D)
Mom, Jamal is coming over. Could
you help me text the address to
him?

Agnes collects the phone and types in.

43 EXT. CITY- EVENING

Overview of the city.

44 EXT. PREMISES- AGNES’S HOUSE- EVENING

Jamal approaches the door, with a plastic file bag and a
fruit basket. He rings the doorbell. It opens and Agnes
beams at him.
AGNES
Hi, Jamal. How are you?
JAMAL
Good evening, Mrs. Agwu.
AGNES
Come in, come in.
Jamal steps

INTO THE LIVING ROOM and glances around admiringly. Agnes

leads him to the living room. She offers him a seat.

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 30.

JAMAL
Wow, Miss Agwu... You have really
great taste in interior.

AGNES
(giggles)
Why, thank you, Jamal. Let me get
Mariah for you.
Agnes heads upstairs. Jamal observes the place for a
moment. He doesn’t notice Mariah step down, looking a bit
better. Agnes comes behind her.
MARIAH
Hey, Jamal.

JAMAL
(gets up)
Mariah. Hi... From your tone over
the phone, I feared it was
serious. You look...better than I
expected, thank God.
MARIAH
(laughs)
It’s just the flu.

JAMAL
Okay. Either way, I got you this.
(hands fruit basket)
MARIAH
Wow... Thanks. That’s so
thoughtful of you.
Mariah hands the fruit basket to Agnes, who takes it into
the kitchen.
JAMAL
And here are the outlooks I
drafted. As requested. Are you
sure you’ll be able to go through
them? I mean, in your condition.
Agnes walks towards them as Mariah replies.

MARIAH
Of course. No silly virus can
bring me down for work.

AGNES
You weren’t saying that this
morning when you were staggering
like a zombie. Thank my chamomile
tea, not your immune system.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 31.

JAMAL
I’m with Mrs. O. on this one.
Moms have a shocking stockpile
when it comes to home remedies.
You’re lucky she was here.

AGNES
I’m liking him more and more.
They laugh. Mariah observes him for a moment.

MARIAH
Hey... Would you like to stay for
dinner?
Jamal is surprised by the gesture. He smiles warmly.

45 INT. DINING AREA- AN HOUR LATER

The group laugh over an almost consumed dinner spread.

JAMAL
But it’s true, Mrs Agwu. Food is
our energy. And right now, my
battery’s at full charge!
AGNES
Oh, Jamal... Don’t injure me,
please.
MARIAH
You should see him at the office,
mom. He’s a class act.

JAMAL
Hey! Someone had to be the
rainbow at work, right?
They laugh again.

AGNES
How do you manage to always make
people feel so easy around you?
Cos I know they don’t teach that
in college.
JAMAL
Well, I’ve always loved talking
to people. Gives me a chance to
get to understand them, you know.
And as for women, well.... I had
lots of practice with my own mom.
MARIAH
Well, that’s nice. I bet she
misses not having you around all
the time, now that you’re grown.
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 32.

JAMAL
No... I’m the one doing the
missing. She.... passed away 8
years ago.

MARIAH
Oh... I’m really sorry.
AGNES
Well, I’m sure she’s proud of you
wherever she is.
JAMAL
Either that or nagging that I’m
still single.

The women laugh heartily. Agnes gets up and clears the

table. Mariah makes to join her but she gestures her to
sit. Agnes leaves with the servings, to the kitchen.
JAMAL (CONT’D)
Your mom is a lot of fun.

MARIAH
That’s because she likes you.
JAMAL
Then, I guess I’m lucky.
MARIAH
Nah... You’re cool, is all.
JAMAL
Just cool? I put in a lot of work
to build this spectacular
personality you have all come to
enjoy.
Mariah laughs loudly and Jamal chuckles. He looks at the
time.
JAMAL (CONT’D)
I should go. Thanks for dinner.
Jamal gets up and Mariah sees him off to the door. She
opens it.
MARIAH
It was really nice having you
around, Jamal. I’m glsd you
stayed.

Jamal smiles for a moment.

JAMAL
Me too... See you on Monday.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 33.

Jamal waves her goodbye, and she locks the door, her face
still with a smile. Agnes slowly approaches from behind.
AGNES
He’s a nice man, that Jamal,
isn’t he?
Mariah ponders over her mother’s remark for a bit.
MARIAH
Yes.... He is.
Mariah smiles to herself.
Overview of the city.

46 INT. MARIAH’S OFFICE- DAY

Mariah makes a phone call while Jamal works vigorously on
a laptop. He hits ’Print’, and moves to the printer. Jamal
takes the printed document and goes to Mariah. He sets it
on the table. Mariah finishes the call and hangs up.
MARIAH
How’s it?
JAMAL
You tell me.
Mariah checks out the document.
MARIAH
Jamal... This is spectacular.
JAMAL
(grins)
Right?

MARIAH
Yeah! Awesome.
Jamal playfully dusts his shoulder proudly, and grins,
amusing Mariah. He returns to his laptop, and resumes
work. Mariah glances at the document again with a smile,
and at him. She observes him for a moment, not realizing
she’s staring. Jamal raises his head and notices her. He’s
puzzled.
JAMAL
You alright?

Mariah breaks out of her trance and adjusts. She’s

embarrassed.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 34.

MARIAH
Sorry, I... I got carried away by
something.

Jamal observes her for a moment, a smile on his face.

Mariah notices.
MARIAH
What?

JAMAL
Nothing... I got carried away.
Mariah laughs at his attempt to neutralize the tension.
She glances around at work. Jamal looks at his watch.

JAMAL (CONT’D)
Woah... It’s almost lunch time.
You want anything?
MARIAH
Um... You know what? Why don’t we
just eat out?
Jamal shrugs and they step out.

47 EXT. RECREATIONAL PARK- MINUTES LATER

Jamal and Mariah eat at a bench in a crowded recreational
park, all smiles and gist. Mariah notices a couple seated
at another bench, all mushy. She rolls her eyes at the
sight. Jamal notices and glances at the couple. He turns
to her, puzzled.
JAMAL
What? You got something against
P.D.A.?

MARIAH
What...? No. (giggles) Was I that
obvious?
JAMAL
I could hear your eyeballs squeak
in their sockets.
Mariah laughs so loud, she almost chokes. Jamal is
surprised his joke was that funny.
MARIAH
You’ll wound me with your jabs
one of these days.
She resumes eating. Jamal observes her for a moment.

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 35.

JAMAL
I’m assuming lovers acting puppy
love reminds you of your ex.
Wanna talk about it?

Mariah doesn’t respond for a moment. Jamal observes her,

expectantly.
MARIAH
I thought we were gonna get
married. He thought he could
still sleep with another woman
while we were planning to.
Jamal whistles.

MARIAH (CONT’D)
Yup. You know... With Vic, I
always felt it was a done deal.
But I guess I’m destined to wait
a little longer.

Mariah’s mind drifts at the last word. Jamal notices.

JAMAL
Too bad we hadn’t met before
then.

MARIAH
Why?
JAMAL
Because then I’d have told you
that guys named Vic always
gawking at women, like...
Jamal makes a silly gawk. Mariah bursts into another bout
of laughter. Jamal chuckles.

JAMAL (CONT’D)
Well, it sucks when such happens.
Which is why right now, I’m
focused on building my financial
stand first.

MARIAH
So, you’re saying you need money
before you get married.
JAMAL
I’m saying when I decide to get
married, I want to be sure the
family will be well catered for.
And that costs money.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 36.

MARIAH
Potato, potato.
JAMAL
Yeah, yeah.
They chuckle and eat. Mariah observes him discreetly for a
moment.

48 INT. MARIAH’S BEDROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- WEEKEND

Mariah works on her laptop when her phone pings. She
checks it and gasps. It’s an alert of 20 million Naira.
She gets up, excited. She quickly types into her phone.

MARIAH (POP-UP)
Hey, Jamal! I’ve got great news!
Send me your address, I’m coming
over!
Mariah drops the phone and opens her wardrobe.

49 INT. LIVING ROOM- JAMAL’S APARTMENT- HOURS LATER

The doorbell rings and Jamal comes to open it. Mariah
rushes in, excited.
JAMAL
You’re all giddy today. What’s
up?

Mariah hands him a cheque. Jamal collects it, puzzled. He

look at it and is dumbfounded.
JAMAL (CONT’D)
What...?

MARIAH
The proposal we submitted got
approved. That’s your commission.
JAMAL
What?! This is four times the
agreed amount!
MARIAH
Well, consider the extra a tip
for being such a great colleague.
And a great guy.

Jamal grins warmly. Mariah smiles warmly, her eyes

expectant. She casually gestures for a hug. Jamal is happy
enough, and hugs her. She lingers, savoring his warmth.
They disengage. Mariah takes a good look at his apartment.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 37.

MARIAH (CONT’D)
This is nice.
JAMAL
What? No. But with this pay
upgrade, I can now get a better
place, as I’ve always wanted.
MARIAH
Really? That’s great.

Jamal is excited.
MARIAH (CONT’D)
So... What’s your plan for the
weekend?

JAMAL
I was planning to Netflix and
chill, you know?
MARIAH
Oh. Well, can I join you?
JAMAL
Sure!
They head into the decently furnished bachelor’s living
room.

50 EXT. CITY. DAY

The sun shines brightly over the horizon, reflecting on
the buildings.

51 EXT. PREMISES- JAMAL’S APARTMENT- DAY

Establishment of an upscale residential building with
blocks of flat. Interlocked tiles grace the ground, adding
a touch of style along with the ornamental greenery. We
see an impressively polished door.

52 INT. LIVING ROOM- JAMAL’S APARTMENT- DAY

Jamal sits on a plush couch, in his new apartment, and

types on his system. The living room is impressively
furnished with simple but tasteful interior decor. A large
flat-screen TV sits on an electronics shelf. The doorbell
rings and he goes to open the door. He beams.
JAMAL
Shelly! Hi!
They hug tightly.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 38.

SHELLY
Hey, you! Nice upgrade!
JAMAL
I know, right? Was it hard to
locate?
SHELLY, a foxy, perky young woman, enters the living room
with a bright smile. She wears a short, tight-fitting gown
with high heels. Her hair flows down to her shoulders, but
doesn’t conceal her exposed bosom.
SHELLY
For me? Nah. You know I’m Google
Maps now.

JAMAL
I trust you. (checks her out )
Shelly... It’s like you have
plans today, with this killer
outfit of yours.

SHELLY
A girl must always be prepared,
of course.
They laugh as they sit.

53 INT. MARIAH’S CAR- DAY

Mariah casually applies makeup as she drives along the
road.

54 INT. LIVING ROOM- JAMAL’S APARTMENT- LATER

Shelly takes a sip of her bottled drink as she watches TV.
The doorbell rings.

SHELLY
Jamal! Door!
JAMAL (VOICE)
Could you get it?

Shelly gets up and opens the door. She slowly backs away,
puzzled. Mariah slowly enters, confused by her sight.
SHELLY
Hello... Can I help you?

Mariah gives Shelly a scornful look-over. Shelly is

uncomfortable by it. Jamal enters the living room and sees
them.

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 39.

JAMAL
Mariah.... Hi. You didn’t tell me
you were coming.

MARIAH
Do I have to? Or you were hoping
I did so I don’t catch you in the
act?!
Jamal is confused.

JAMAL
What are you talking about?
MARIAH
So, here I am, striving to make
something out of you, and here
you are... Cheating on me with
this cheap thing?
SHELLY
Wait, what?! Who the hell are
you?!
MARIAH
I should ask you the same thing!
What the heck are you doing
here?!!
JAMAL
Mariah! Where’s all this coming
from?

MARIAH
Shut up, you ungrateful thing!
So, this is what I get for having
mercy on you? You go about
picking up sluts?!

SHELLY
Are you mad?! Who’s this animal?
Oya! Before I count to three, get
out now!
MARIAH
Shut your mouth, prostitute!
You’re the one who’s leaving here
today!
SHELLY
You know what? I’ve had enough of
this-
Shelly swiftly picks the bottle from the footstool and
rushes at an alarmed Mariah, but Jamal cuts in and stops
her. Mariah is shocked.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 40.

MARIAH
Jamal... So, your slut has the
gut to come at me? Is that it?
JAMAL
Mariah, will you just calm down
and-
MARIAH
Don’t tell me to calm down! You
know what? Screw you. Screw her.
Screw everything we’ve ever had.
Our agreement is off. Don’t come
back to the office. As a matter
of fact... I don’t want to see
you ever again!

Mariah barges out, and Shelly makes to go after her but

Jamal holds her back. He consoles her and apologizes,
while being confused over what had happened.

55 EXT. ROAD- MOMENTS LATER

The white Range Rover Sport speeds past a smooth traffic.
INSIDE THE CAR, Mariah drives in tears.

56 INT. LIVING ROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- MOMENTS LATER

Mariah bursts into the house and rushes to her room,
crying. Agnes is confused by the scene.

57 INT. MARIAH’S BEDROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- EVENING

Mariah lies in bed, crying. Agnes knocks and enters.
AGNES
Mariah dear...? What is it? Talk
to me...
Mariah stops crying and slowly sits up.
MARIAH
Why do men cheat?
Agnes is confused. She comes to sit next to her.
AGNES
Baby... I thought we were over
Vic’s issue.
MARIAH
Not Vic, mom... Jamal.
Agnes is surprised.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 41.

AGNES
Jamal...? I didn’t realize you
two were in a relationship.

MARIAH
Well... We... I mean, I like him
and he knows it. But it didn’t
stop him from bringing another
woman into his house.

AGNES
Mariah... I don’t know what
you’re on about, but... I’d
advise you make sure things are
clear before you decide.

MARIAH
What’s that supposed to mean,
mom?
AGNES
Jamal is an exceptional young
man. And a behavior like what
you’ve just described is....hard
to accept of him. I just feel you
need to be sure about what you
saw.

MARIAH
So, I’m making things up now, is
that it, mom?
AGNES
No, my dear... It’s just-
MARIAH
I want to be left alone, mom.
AGNES
Mariah...
MARIAH
Please?
Agnes lingers for a bit, and leaves. Mariah’s sobs become
louder as she curls back on her bed.

58 INT. BEDROOM- JAMAL’S APARTMENT- EVENING

Jamal puts a call to Mariah. It rings but no response. He
tries again, anxious. It rings. No response. Jamal tries
again. It rings. Switched off. He rubs his face,
frustrated. He scrolls through the phone to ’Mrs. Agwu’
and stops. His thumb lingers over the number for a reason.
Jamal dumps the phone, exasperated.
 42.

59 INT. MARIAH’S OFFICE- DAY

Mariah stares at her laptop screen, distracted. A knock on
the door is followed by Jamal. Mariah jolts up, angry.

MARIAH
What the heck are you doing
here?! I told you to never come
back here!

JAMAL
Mariah... You’ve gotten it all
mixed up. At least hear me out-
MARIAH
There’s nothing to hear! You’re
no different from every other man
out there, and you know it!
Jamal stares at her, hurt.
JAMAL
That’s not fair, Mariah...
MARIAH
Fair?! You’re seriously talking
to me about fair?

JAMAL
Mariah, please! Let me clear
things up!
MARIAH
You don’t get to raise your voice
at me in my own office, Jamal!
Not now, not ever!
Jamal relaxes, worried. Mariah glares at him, hurt and
confused. She shrugs it off.

MARIAH (CONT’D)
Get out.
JAMAL
Mariah-

MARIAH
I said get out!
Jamal slumps his shoulders in defeat and slowly heads out.
He stops at the door, and turns.

JAMAL
I know you’ve been hurt in the
past, Mariah... But you should
know... not everyone’s like him.
 43.

Mariah’s temper slowly subdues. Jamal glances at her,

concerned. He steps out. Mariah angrily shoves a heap of
files off her table. She glances around, confused.

60 INT. LIVING ROOM- JAMAL’S APARTMENT- DAY

Jamal stares at his phone, sad. He tries Mariah’s number.
It’s barred. He drops the phone, frustrated and confused.
He sighs and leans into the couch, pondering. He gets up
and heads out.

61 EXT. RECREATIONAL PARK- AN HOUR LATER

Jamal arrives at the recreational park and sits at a
bench. He glances around, hoping to find Mariah. He
doesn’t and sighs. He checks his phone, and looks up,
forlorn. He catches a sight and freezes, in disbelief.
Mariah sits at a far end of the park, with Vic. Jamal is
stunned. Mariah laughs at something Vic whispers in her
ear. She looks up and sees Jamal.
Jamal slowly gets up, shocked. His eyes are questioning
and confused. Mariah scowls bitterly at him. She gently
touches Vic’s face and pulls him in for a kiss. Jamal is
dumbfounded.

Jamal slowly makes his way out of the park. Mariah’s

mocking eyes follow him. She returns her attention to Vic.
Jamal takes out his phone as he leaves, and puts in a
call. We see ’Mrs Agwu’ on his phone screen.

62 INT. LIVING ROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- NIGHT

Agnes sits in the living room, her face stern. Mariah
enters the house, excited.

MARIAH
Hey, Mom!
AGNES
Jamal called.

MARIAH
Who, Jamal? (hisses) That one?
Can you imagine his audacity?
Coming to the park to spy on Vic
and I? It’s ridiculous.
AGNES
So, it’s true? You’re back with
that...cheat? Mariah. I expected
better from you!

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 44.

MARIAH
Oh, come on, Mom. You know how
I’ve always felt about Vic.
Besides, he apologized about what
happened and swore he was
miserable without me.
Agnes is stunned.
AGNES
That’s not the point, Mariah! You
should’ve at least heard the boy
out.
MARIAH
You’re being dramatic, Mom. Plus,
Jamal and I, we were never an
item to begin with. Vic however,
is my ideal man.
Agnes scoffs, unable to believe her daughter.

MARIAH (CONT’D)
Mom... Be happy for me. I can
finally have the family I’ve
always dreamed of. Give you a
grandchild you can play with all
the time. Vic says he can’t wait
for us to get married!
Agnes storms out, annoyed at Mariah. She stops at the
stairs.

AGNES
You know, I’m shocked you’re back
on this path with Vic. But I’m
even more surprised that you’d
treat Jamal the way you did.
Knowing fully well what kind of a
person he is.
Agnes storms up the stairs. Mariah glances around,
confused.

63 INT. MARIAH’S BEDROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- NIGHT

Mariah stirs on her bed, sleepless. Sh sits up and picks
her phone. She opens her WhatsApp and scrolls to Jamal’
number. Mariah clicks on the name and a chat window pops
up.
Mariah stares at the phone, unsure for a moment. She makes
to type and pauses. Mariah’s eves glance around,
anxiously. She tosses the phone at the side table and
snuggles on her bed to sleep.
 45.

Mariah opens her eyes, worried and unable to drift into

sleep.

64 INT. LIVING ROOM- JAMAL’S APARTMENT- DAY

Jamal sits o a couch, worried. He rubs his head in

exasperation. Shelly comes out from the guest room and
notices him. She goes to him.
SHELLY
Jamal....? Are you alright?
JAMAL
Um... Yeah.

Shelly sighs knowingly, and sits next to him.

SHELLY
I know you, Jamal. So, don’t lie
to me.

Jamal glances at her, and relaxes.

JAMAL
I’m sorry... It’s just... It’s
personal.

SHELLY
Well, whatever it is... I don’t
like seeing you like this. I hope
you can get over it and be your
usual fun self again.

Jamal observes her affectionately for a moment. He smiles

sadly.
JAMAL
Me too, Shelly.

Shelly pulls him to her laps and strokes his hair. Jamal
smiles and closes his eyes to relax. The doorbell rings.
JAMAL (CONT’D)
(eyes closed)
Come in.
The door opens and a remorseful Mariah comes in. Shelly
notices her and frowns. Jamal opens his eyes and sees her.
He sits up, surprised. Mariah’s remorse turns to anger.

JAMAL (CONT’D)
Mariah... Hey...
MARIAH
Save it! (scoffs) And to think I
came here to give you the benefit
of the doubt!
(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 46.

Jamal glances from her to Shelly. He sighs, knowingly.

JAMAL
Mariah.... It’s really not what
you’re thinking.
MARIAH
Oh? So, I didn’t just see your
head on this tramp’s lap?!

Shelly springs up, angry.

SHELLY
That does it! You know, I held
back the last time because Jamal
asked me to, but one more word
from you, lady and I swear to
God, I’ll knock you out!
MARIAH
You dare threaten me? Do you know
who I am?!!

SHELLY
I don’t give a hoot, woman! I’ll
beat you to death this instant!

The women flare up at each other in an argument, and Jamal

quickly comes between them. He signals Shelly to be calm,
and turns to Mariah.
JAMAL
Mariah... To be honest, I’m
surprised you’re acting this way.
MARIAH
Why wouldn’t you?! You’re a man
after all! And the only
difference between you and a
swine is you bathe and brush your
teeth in the morning!
Jamal recoils, angry.
JAMAL
I won’t have you lash out for no
reason whatsoever in my home,
Mariah. It’s completely uncalled
for.
MARIAH
Really? So, you can take money
from me and still sleep around
with this thing?!

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 47.

JAMAL
Oh, for God’s sake, Mariah!
Shelly’s my cousin!

Mariah pauses, in disbelief. She glances from Jamal to

Shelly, whose expression is of sheer mockery.
MARIAH
(disbelief)
Yeah, right!

JAMAL
Seriously. ’Shelly’ is short for
’Selimat’.
SHELLY
Yes, Miss Busybody! Jamal is my
cousin! My mother’s son!
Mariah glares in embarrassment, at the statement. Jamal
isn’t pleased. She realizes her mistake.

MARIAH
Oh, my God, Jamal... I’m
sorry.... I didn’t know-
JAMAL
Of course, you didn’t. Because
you wouldn’t listen. And frankly,
I’m surprised at you. Imagine the
horrible things you’ve said. Is
that how you really see me?

MARIAH
Jamal, I’m sorry... I made a
mistake.
JAMAL
No, Mariah. You didn’t. You only
spoke from the abundance of your
heart. You know what...? You
should leave.
Mariah glares at him, in hurt and disbelief. Shelly
glances at them both, her face now soft with concern.

MARIAH
Jamal... You can’t do that to me.
JAMAL
Yes, I can.
Mariah glares at him with teary eyes. She slowly leaves.
Jamal slumps in his seat, exasperated, unhappy with his
outburst.
 48.

65 INT. MARIAH’S BEDROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- NIGHT

Mariah sits on her bed, devastated. A knock on the door is
followed by Agnes. She watches her from the door.

AGNES
Hey, sweetie.... Is everything
alright? You were quiet all
through dinner.

Mariah doesn’t respond. Agnes comes in and sits next to

her. She observes her with concern, for a moment.
MARIAH
The woman I saw with Jamal.....
She’s his cousin, mom.

Agnes is relieved.
AGNES
I warned you to give that young
man a chance but you didn’t
listen. Now, look where your
jumping to conclusions has gotten
you.
MARIAH
I know, mom but... I feel so
terrible. I treated him like
crap. Said really hurtful things
to him. And he’s been nothing but
sweet to me since we met.

Agnes sighs, knowingly. Mariah ponders, remorseful.

MARIAH (CONT’D)
What do I do, Mom?
AGNES
Hmm..... Well... You’ll have to
swallow your pride and do what is
necessary.
MARIAH
And what’s that?

Agnes stares at Mariah for a moment. She smiles warmly.

AGNES
Make amends, dear.

Mariah shuts her eyes at what her Agnes means. Agnes

gently pats her shoulder and leaves. Mariah slowly curls
onto her bed, bothered.
 49.

66 INT. LIVING ROOM- JAMAL’S APARTMENT- DAY

Jamal comes to the door as the doorbell constantly rings.
He opens it and frowns, as he slowly backs off, to let a
remorseful Mariah enters.

MARIAH
Hey, Jamal...
JAMAL
What do you want?

MARIAH
I’m sorry about all I said and
did. I should’ve given you a
chance to explain.

JAMAL
You know what’s funny? I still
can’t recall a time when I
mentioned I was romantically
interested in you. So where did
all that bitterness come from?
MARIAH
I’m sorry... I... I felt
something was going to happen,
and when I saw that it wouldn’t,
I got angry. Then, Vic came back
and.....
Jamal glances around, uncomfortable.
JAMAL
Well, it doesn’t matter now. You
don’t need to explain yourself to
me. After all, we’re no longer
working together.
MARIAH
That’s why I’m here.... I want
you to come back.
JAMAL
(scoffs)
You must be joking if you think
I’d return to work for you after
the way you treated me.
MARIAH
I know, and I’m sorry. I made a
terrible mistake. Jamal..., I
miss you at the office. You’re
really good at what you do, and I
could use your expertise right
now. Please....?

Jamal paces around for a moment. He observes her keenly.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 50.

JAMAL
I want my contract re-evaluated.
A pay upgrade. And a longer
break. Plus, no weekend work.

MARIAH
Done.
Jamal observes her, reluctantly. Mariah is expectant.

MARIAH (CONT’D)
So... I’ll see you next week.
JAMAL
Yes.

Mariah nods. They stare at each other awkwardly for a

while. She composes and leaves.

67 INT. MARIAH’S OFFICE- DAY

Mariah and Jamal work on laptops from their corners.

Mariah raises a glance at Jamal. Jamal doesn’t return it.
Mariah sighs. She makes to talk but the door opens and Vic
walks in.

VIC
Hey, beautiful.
Mariah gets up, surprised.
MARIAH
Vic!
She rushes to him and they hug. Jamal glances at them
casually. Vic notices, as they disengage.
VIC
I wanted to come check up on you.
Perhaps ask you out to lunch?
MARIAH
I’d love to.

Vic kisses her deeply. Jamal notices and frowns. Mariah

remembers he’s in the room and composes. Vic notices.
VIC
So... who’s this?

MARIAH
Um... This is Jamal. He works for
me.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 51.

VIC
Oh... Hi.
Jamal simply nudges and returns to his work. Vic isn’t
pleased. Mariah notices the tension.
MARIAH
So... Lunch?
VIC
Uh, yeah! After you.
Mariah giggles and heads out, causally glancing at Jamal.
Vic discreetly scowls at Jamal as he leaves. Jamal rolls
his eyes and focuses on his work.

68 INT. EATERY- MINUTES LATER

Vic and Mariah eat at a table. Vic watches her for a
moment.

VIC
So.... That guy at your office...
What’s his face?
MARIAH
You mean Jamal?
VIC
Whatever. How did you come across
his type?

MARIAH
Don’t be like that, Vic. Jamal is
a nice guy. And very hardworking
too. He helped me change a flat
one time, and I gave him a job.

VIC
(raises brow)
So, he was a mechanic.
MARIAH
No, silly. He’s actually a
graduate. Media and
Communications. Just like me.
VIC
(sarcastic)
Really? I don’t see the hype.

MARIAH
Come now, Vic. He means well. And
he helps out a lot at the office.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 52.

VIC
Of course, he must, if he wants
to earn his pay. And he better
knows his place; at the office
and with you.
MARIAH
(giggles)
No, don’t worry about him, Vic.

VIC
Good. Because you’re mine and
mine alone. And I can’t wait for
the day when you’ll become my
wife.

Mariah beams at Vic. Vic takes her hand and kisses it

gently. Mariah blushes.

69 INT. HALLWAY- MARIAH’S OFFICE- DAY

Jamal walks towards the office and notices the door is

ajar. He observes it, puzzled, and approaches. He peers
in.

70 INT. MARIAH’S OFFICE- CONTINUOUS

Jamal is surprised at the sight of Vic stealthily
accessing Mariah’s laptop. He watches as Vic pulls a flash
drive from the side of the laptop and pockets it. Jamal
frowns and loudly steps in. Vic freezes at the sight of
him.
JAMAL
You’re in the wrong seat, Mr.
VIC
(smiles)
Am I now?
Vic casually makes his way back to the visitors’ chair and
sits. He smiles innocently at Jamal. Jamal responds with a
deep glare. Vic’s amusement slowly fades. Mariah enters.

MARIAH
Hey, guys. Sorry for keeping you
waiting, Vic.
VIC
No, it’s cool, my love.
They embrace and kiss. Jamal looks away as he returns to
his seat.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 53.

VIC
Are you ready?
MARIAH
Yeah.

Mariah picks her bag and heads out. Vic follows behind.
Jamal’ glare follows him. Vic returns it with a sinister
smile as he leaves.

71 INT. BEDROOM- JAMAL’S APARTMENT- NIGHT

Jamal sits on his bed, ponderous

72 INT. MARIAH’S OFFICE- DAY (FLASHBACK)

Jamal stands at the door, and sees Vic sneak around
Mariah’s desk. He watches him pull the flash drive from
the laptop.

73 INT. BEDROOM- JAMAL’S APARTMENT- CONTINUOUS

Jamal picks his phone and scrolls through till he reaches
Mariah’s number. He pauses and stares at the number for a
moment, confused. He drops the phone.

74 INT. MARIAH’S OFFICE- MORNING

Mariah and Jamal work in their separate spaces. Jamal
observes her, anxious and concerned, for a moment. He goes
to her table and sits on the visitor’s chair.
JAMAL
I need to talk to you about
something.

MARIAH
(eyes on laptop)
Yeah, about what?
Jamal watches her, unsure for a moment.

JAMAL
It’s about your boyfriend, Vic.
Mariah looks up from the laptop screen.

MARIAH
Correction, he’s my fiance.
Jamal nods, ignoring the jab. Mariah’s face is
questioning. Jamal adjusts in his seat, looking for the
right way to say his mind. He shrugs it off.

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 54.

JAMAL
I don’t trust him.
MARIAH
(scoffs)
Excuse me?
JAMAL
There’s something off about him.
Something...shifty.

Mariah gives Jamal a deep scowl. Jamal gestures she hears

him out.
JAMAL (CONT’D)
I saw him yesterday on your
laptop. It was like he was spying
or something. And he pulled a
flash drive from it and took it
with him-
Mariah raises a hand to stop him.

MARIAH
For the sake of your efficiency
in this workspace, I’ll let your
slip-up slide.

JAMAL
It’s not a slip-up. I know what I
saw. Look, Mariah..., our
differences aside, I still care
about you. More than I should.

MARIAH
Jamal-
JAMAL
I mean, think about it... He
shows up, out of the blue and
back into your life, and now, I
see him sneaking in your office-
MARIAH
Enough!

Jamal stops, surprised at her reaction. Mariah isn’t

pleased with him.
MARIAH (CONT’D)
Let me remind you that it was
your idea to keep things strictly
professional.
JAMAL
I know, but-

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 55.

MARIAH
Let me finish.
Jamal is offended by her tone. He conceals it.

MARIAH (CONT’D)
My love life is none of your
business. And don’t think I
didn’t notice how you’ve been
acting around Vic. So, obviously,
this is a ploy to paint him
black.
Jamal is shocked by her conclusion.
MARIAH (CONT’D)
I would appreciate it if you stay
out of my relationship with Vic.
That is, if you wish to keep your
job. Is that understood?
Jamal gawks at her in disbelief. Anger rises in him. He
takes a deep breath and sedates it.
JAMAL
I’m sorry. Forget I said
anything..., Miss Agwu.

Jamal gets up and returns to his table. Mariah glares at

him. Jamal resumes his work, his countenance resolute.

75 INT. LIVING ROOM- VIC’S APARTMENT- DAY

Vic opens the door and Mariah hugs him. His cold reception
surprises her. Vic takes a seat, bothered. Mariah sits
next to him.
MARIAH
Vic, my love...? What is it?
VIC
Do you love me?
MARIAH
Of course, I do. Why would you
even ask that?
VIC
Because if you do, you’d know
that I care about you a lot.

MARIAH
But I know that, honey... What’s
going on?

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 56.

VIC
I have a....bad feeling about
that guy who works for you.
Mariah glances around, confused.

MARIAH
Jamal? Why?
VIC
I mean, think about it... the way
you two met, how he got a job
with your firm... Something’s
fishy about him.
MARIAH
(chuckles)
Come on, Vic. Jamal is a good
person. I’m sure you’re just
reading him wrong.
VIC
I’m reading him wrong? Mariah...
I think that guy wanted you to
find him. I smell a scheme around
his whole story. I think he’s
trying to defraud you.

MARIAH
What? No way. This is Jamal we’re
talking about here.
VIC
And I am your fiance. Look... I’m
not comfortable with you working
with him. I’m worried. And so
long as I feel this way...., I
don’t know what that means for
us.

Mariah fears for the worse.

MARIAH
What are you trying to say,
Vic...?

VIC
I’m trying to say.... you’ll have
to choose. Between working with
Jamal..., or being with me.

Mariah’s face grows pale with dread.

MARIAH
No... No, you can’t ask me to do
that, Vic. Come on... Jamal is
very valuable to me.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 57.

VIC
And I’m not? Well... it seems
like there’s something more going
on here. Something you’re not
telling me.
MARIAH
There isn’t, Vic-
VIC
That it shouldn’t be so
difficult, should it? Look...,
until you decide on what to do, I
think we should take some space
for a while.

MARIAH
What...? Vic... No, please...
Don’t make me do this.
Vic gets up and heads inside, leaving Mariah confused.

76 INT. LIVING ROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- DAY

Mariah paces around the living room. Agnes watches her
from the couch, her face indifferent.

MARIAH
I don’t know what to do, mom. If
I keep working with Jamal, I lose
Vic. And if I fire him....

AGNES
If you ask me, Vic shouldn’t even
be asking for such a sacrifice to
begin with. Not after what he’s
done.

MARIAH
Oh, come on, mom. Are you always
going to hold the past against
him? We’re engaged for Christ’s
sake.

Agnes is surprised by Mariah’s lashout. She slowly gets

up.
AGNES
You asked for my opinion and now
you’re not happy I gave it?
Mariah realizes she was harsh.
MARIAH
I’m sorry, mom. I didn’t mean-

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 58.

AGNES
No, I get it. You’re smitten.
But, I can also tell you that
you’re not making the decisions
for yourself right now. Vic is.
Mariah glances a confused look at her mom.
AGNES (CONT’D)
And if that’s how you want it,
then it’s your life. I won’t
interfere.
Agnes makes her way up the stairs, before Mariah can
object. Mariah ponders over the issue, anxious.

77 EXT. RECREATIONAL PARK- AFTERNOON

Mariah sits on a park bench, staring reflectively at the
scene. Jamal slowly approaches from behind.

JAMAL
Hi. I got your text. What was so
urgent, it couldn’t wait till
Monday?

MARIAH
Hey, Jamal. Please... sit.
Jamal sits on the other end of the bench. They remain
quiet for a moment. Mariah glances around, for the right
words.

MARIAH (CONT’D)
Umm... Remember the first time I
asked you to work with me...? You
were worried about how my husband
would take it.

Jamal slowly recalls her reference. He realizes where

she’s going.
MARIAH (CONT’D)
Well... You were right... Turns
out Vic isn’t comfortable with us
working together.
JAMAL
(scoffs)
You’re firing me.

Mariah faces him, remorseful.

MARIAH
Please... It’s not what I want.
It’s just what’s needed for me
(MORE) (CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 59.

MARIAH (cont’d)
right now. Things are suddenly
going well with Vic, and I don’t
want to mess it up.
JAMAL
Is that why you used my initial
excuse as a plausible reason?
MARIAH
No, that wasn’t my intent-

JAMAL
No, it’s alright. I get it. And
he’s right. Plus, the tension
between us two has been bad for
work anyway.

MARIAH
Jamal... I’m so sorry...
Jamal smiles sadly. Mariah is almost in tears. Jamal
observes her for a moment.

JAMAL
I really hope he makes you happy.
Jamal gets up and leaves. Mariah remains sitted, extremely
guilt-ridden.

78 INT. LIVING ROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- LATER

Mariah sits with Agnes in the living room.

MARIAH
It was a mess, mom. I hated
having to do it.
AGNES
But you did. And all to satisfy
Vic. Do you even realize what has
happened here?
MARIAH
Mom, Jamal himself agreed with
the decision. Plus, it was
something he wasn’t comfortable
with from the start.
AGNES
You fired a hardworking, loyal
and dedicated worker to please a
man who has done nothing but lie
and deceive you all this time.
And you don’t see anything wrong
with it?

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 60.

MARIAH
Mom, enough, please! What’s done
is done. Let it go. I obviously
have.

Mariah storms off to her room, as Agnes replies her.

AGNES
That’s your take, right? Fine!
Don’t expect me to stroke your
hair when he messes up again! And
he will!!
Agnes sighs and rubs her forehead, concerned for her
daughter.

79 INT. RESTAURANT- NIGHT

Vic and Mariah have dinner at a fancy restaurant. Vic
raises a glass.

VIC
To us.
Mariah smiles and raises hers. They clank glasses and
drink. Vic smiles warmly at her.

VIC
So, I was thinking that we should
have a courtyard wedding and
reception. But just a small
gathering of friends and family.
What do you think?
Mariah stares at him, euphoric for a moment.
MARIAH
You’ve.... already made plans?

VIC
No, of course not. Whatever
happens on our special day will
be by our teamwork. I’m just
thinking out loud here.

Mariah observes him affectionately for a moment. She

smiles warmly.
MARIAH
Your plans are beautiful.

VIC
And you are gorgeous.
Vic kisses her hand. Mariah is ecstatic.
 61.

80 INT. BEDROOM- VIC’S APARTMENT- MIDNIGHT

Vic sleeps soundly on the bed, while Mariah operates her
phone. She types messages and mails. She opens her gallery
to find a photo attachment and scrolls through. Mariah’s
serious expression softens, at a sight.
She stares at a selfie of her and Jamal, on the bench at
the park, happy and eating snacks. Mariah sighs as she
reflects over the memory. She observes Vic for a moment,
and smiles softly. She returns to the photo, and the smile
becomes faint.

81 EXT. CITY- DAY

Mariah works alone on her system in the office. She

notices a message in her mail and opens it. Mariah’s eyes
widen in shock and disbelief as she stares at the screen.
We glance the contents with her and notice the words,
’Wire Transfer’, and ’97 Million Naira’. Mariah’s eyes
dart at the screen in confusion.

82 INT. OFFICE- BANK- HOURS LATER

Mariah sits with her account officer in a simple corporate
office space.
MARIAH
I never authorized any transfer
of such amount!

ACCOUNT OFFICER
Well, Miss Agwu, the transaction
history shows that every
authorization channel was
approved. And this is only
possible by you.

MARIAH
And I said I never did! I don’t
even have dealings with such a
company to begin with, so why
would I send them 97 million
Naira?!!
ACCOUNT OFFICER
Miss Agwu, since the current
banking system has given
customers a higher control over
their transactions, the bank
isn’t responsible for whatever
mix-up that may have occurred
here.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 62.

MARIAH
What are you trying to say?!
ACCOUNT OFFICER
What I’m saying is, you may have
to dig deeper into this matter.
As your account officer, I’m
obligated to help in however way
I can. But the fault isn’t from
here. Either you or someone close
to you accessed those funds.
Mariah glances around like she’s in a nightmare.

83 EXT. ROAD- HOURS LATER

Mariah’s Range Rover Sport drives past a smooth traffic.

84 INT. LIVING ROOM- VIC’S APARTMENT- MOMENTS LATER

Mariah opens the door, tired. She notices bottles of

alcohol on the floor and is puzzled. Mariah raises her
head, and freezes, her eyes full of terror at what she
beholds.

Vic is having sex with Ruby, on the couch. Mariah remains

frozen for a moment. Ruby notices her and taps Vic, who
turns and notices her. Mariah slowly shakes her head, in
denial of what she’s seen. Vic simply gets off the lady,
and zips up. Mariah’s eyes dart from Ruby, to Vic, Ruby
again. Her shock gives way to anger.

Mariah charges at Ruby, with a scream and slaps her clean

in the face. Ruby falls and Mariah pounces on her. Vic
rushes to pull her off but she refuses as she severely
beats Ruby. Vic manages to pull her off and shoves her
off.

MARIAH
You’re cheating on me? Again?!
With the same person?!!!
VIC
Well, I-
Mariah picks a flower vase and hurls it at Vic, who dodges
it. Ruby gets up, enraged and charges at her, but Mariah
throws her off. She picks a bottle from the floor and
smashes it on Ruby’s head. Ruby screams and rushes to the
inner room, holding her bleeding head. Vic’s horrified
eyes dart from Ruby to an enraged Mariah.
VIC
Are you crazy?!!

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 63.

MARIAH
Oh, you have no idea! You come
back to my life after I’ve
patched up the soul you
shattered. Only to do what? Smash
it again?
VIC
I know you’re pissed off, but it
doesn’t give you the right to act
like a lunatic in my house!
MARIAH
Your house?! I paid for this
apartment, you ungrateful-

Mariah hurls another bottle at Vic, who dodges it and it

smashes on the wall. Mariah picks another and charges Vic,
mad with rage. Vic slaps her so hard, she falls on a
chair, dazed. Vic heaves with angry breaths as he stares
at her, unapologetic. Mariah looks at him, shocked and
void of all anger. Her lip is busted, and blood trickles
from the cut.
VIC
If you fell for my games again,
it simply shows how gullible and
stupid you are. Don’t blame me
for your lack of intuition, you
hear?
Mariah glances around, shivering and devastated.

VIC (CONT’D)
You know what? Get out of here.
You hear me? I said, get out!
Vic grabs her arm and pulls her towards the door. He opens
it and shoves Mariah

OUTSIDE THE APARTMENT.

She falls to the ground, still in shock. Vic throws her
bag and car key at her, and bangs the door shut.

Mariah sits motionless for a moment, still dazed from the

incident. She gets up, and slowly makes her way to the
gate.

85 INT. MARIAH’S CAR- LATER

Mariah drives, her face frozen. Denial and shock has

overridden her system.
ON THE ROAD, we see her white Range Rover Sport slowly
pulls up at the side of a road, and stops.
 64.

INSIDE THE CAR, Mariah sits motionless, for a moment. A

tear slowly forms in her eye, and trickles down her cheek.
Her shock gradually gives way to sorrow. She sobs
bitterly.

86 INT. LIVING ROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- DAY

Mariah and Agnes sit in the living room, with a man in a
hat and jacket. He’s a PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR. Mariah looks
like she’s in mourning.
PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR
I’ll need all the information
necessary, Miss Agwu. Bank
statements, staff records, and I
also have to analyze all hardware
and software connected with your
business accounts.
MARIAH
Of course.... I’ll write a
permission slip for you...
Agnes notices Mariah isn’t much for talking.
AGNES
Don’t worry, sweetie. David here
is a professional. Top of his
game. My friend assures it.
PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR
And you can count on me to
deliver, Mrs Agwu. Any friend of
Mr Nolan is a high-priority of
mine. I assure you, we’ll find
the culprit who broke into your
account.

Agnes smiles as the P.I. gets up to take his leave. She

shows him out. Mariah’s mind drifts as she sits on the
couch. Agnes comes to her, and observes her with concern.
AGNES
I hate to say it, but I told you
this would happen. You never
listen to me.
Mariah doesn’t respond. Agnes sighs and makes her way to
her room. Mariah stays motionless, void of energy and
willpower.
 65.

87 EXT. PREMISES- JAMAL’S APARTMENT- DAY

Mariah enters Jamal premises and approaches the door. She
makes to ring the doorbell, but pauses, guilt-ridden and
remorseful. She takes a deep breath, exhales, rings the
doorbell, and waits. No response. She rings it again, and
waits. No response. Mariah rings the doorbell a couple
more times, but still no one answers. She sighs and slowly
makes her way back to the gate.
The window curtain discreetly shifts to show Jamal
watching her from inside the apartment.

88 INT. LIVING ROOM- JAMAL’S APARTMENT- CONTINUOUS

Jamal watches Agnes from the window, as she leaves. He

saddens as he lets her go.

89 INT. LIVING ROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- HOURS LATER

Mariah enters the house and notices Agnes cuddling an

attractive looking, older man on the couch. She pauses,
surprised. Agnes and the man, Nolan, kiss gently as they
talk and laugh. Agnes notices Mariah and gets up.
AGNES
Mariah darling! Hi! I didn’t know
you would come in this early.
MARIAH
Mom... What’s...going on?

Agnes glances at her, puzzled and realizes what she means.

She laughs.
AGNES
Oh, forgive my manners. Nolan,
this is Mariah, my daughter.

Nolan gets up with a warm smile.

NOLAN
It’s a pleasure to meet you,
Mariah. Your mother has told me
so much about you.
He extends his hand. Mariah slowly takes it.
MARIAH
Funny... She hasn’t told me
anything about you..
AGNES (CONT’D)
All in good time, dear. Umm...
Mariah. This is Nolan. We’re
dating.
(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 66.

Mariah is torn between gladness and sadness at the news.

She manages to produce a faint smile.
MARIAH
That’s.... That’s great, mom.
Agnes beams. Mariah nods, awkwardly.
MARIAH (CONT’D)
Excuse me...

Mariah hurries towards the stairs. Agnes watches her go,

concerned. Nolan is slightly anxious.
NOLAN
I don’t think she likes me,
Agnes.
AGNES
No, Nolan. It’s not you. Mariah’s
going through...a hard time.

Nolan and Agnes watch her leave.

90 INT. MARIAH’S BEDROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- CONTINUOUS

Mariah enters the room and shuts the door. She’s
overwhelmed by the revelation. Her mother has found love,
but she’s lost it. Twice. Probably, even thrice.
Mariah slowly sits on the floor, her back against the door
and sobs quietly.

91 EXT. CITY- DAY

Panoramic view of Lagos Island.

BEGIN MONTAGE:
I- Jamal’S APARTMENT: Mariah comes to search for Jamal at
his apartment. She rings the doorbell several times but no
response.

II- RESTAURANT: Mariah enters the restaurant where they

had lunch for the first time (scene 54). She buys a drink
and discreetly glances around, hoping to find Jamal. Her
expression is hopeful and desperate.
III- RECREATIONAL PARK: Mariah enters the park and
desperately searches around for Jamal. She doesn’t find
him. Mariah sits on the bench and ponders over her failed
attempts, feeling defeated.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 67.

IV: Agnes’S LIVING ROOM: Mariah enters the living room and
slumps in the couch. She reflects over the pains she’s
experienced in the past months. Mariah curls up on the
couch and sobs quietly.

END MONTAGE.

92 EXT. CITY- NIGHT

Agnes happily enters the living room, from a date with
Nolan. She pauses at the sight of Mariah, fully dressed,
sleeping on the couch. Agnes observes her for a moment,
confused. She gently wakes her up.
AGNES
Wake up, Mariah dear. Go sleep
upstairs.
Mariah slowly gets up, and rubs her eyes. Agnes notices
the smudged mascara around her eyes- she’s been crying.

AGNES (CONT’D)
Sweetie... Are you okay?
MARIAH
Um... Yeah, Mom... Why are you
dressed so fancy?

AGNES
Don’t worry about it, we can talk
tomorrow.
Mariah notices Agnes’s concerned expression. She smiles
softly.
MARIAH
Mom... If you were on a date with
Nolan, it’s cool. Besides, I was
on board with you seeing someone
again, remember?
AGNES
I know... It’s just, with
everything that’s happening with
you right now..., narrating my
excitement with Nolan may come
off as insensitive.
MARIAH
I’ll be fine, mom.

AGNES
But you don’t look fine... You’ve
been crying, haven’t you?
Mariah’s mind drifts at her mother’s question for a
moment. She smiles faintly and slowly gets up.
(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 68.

MARIAH
I’m glad you’re happy, mom. Stop
worrying about me.... Goodnight.

Mariah slowly makes her way to her room. Agnes watches as

she slowly climbs the stairs. She’s very concerned.

93 EXT. PREMISES- JAMAL’S APARTMENT- DAY

Jamal steps out of the apartment and locks the door. He

turns and pauses in his step, caught off-guard. Mariah
slowly approaches, remorseful and nervous.
MARIAH
Hi...

JAMAL
Hi...
MARIAH
Can we talk...?

JAMAL
I...have to get to work.
MARIAH
Oh..., you got a job?
JAMAL
Yeah... One of my applications
fell through. I’m surprised you
don’t know... I told your mom.

Mariah is surprised as she ponders what that means. Agnes

and Jamal have gotten closer. Jamal watches her,
awkwardly.
JAMAL (CONT’D)
I really don’t want to be late.
MARIAH
I know... I’m sorry... It’s
just... A lot has happened
lately, and I feel like you’re
the only one I can talk to... But
I know I kind of screwed that
part up...
JAMAL
(raises brow)
Kind of?
Mariah glances around, nervously.

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 69.

MARIAH
I’m really sorry for letting you
go, Jamal. I really am.

JAMAL
It’s okay, Mariah. I’m not mad
about the job anymore-
MARIAH
I wasn’t talking about the job...

Jamal observes her, puzzled for a moment. He realizes what

she means. Mariah glares at him with expectant eyes. Jamal
sighs.
JAMAL
How’s Vic?
Mariah’s expression saddens. She glances away.
MARIAH
We’re....no longer together.

JAMAL
Oh... Okay...
Mariah glances around, in guilt and embarrassment.

MARIAH
You were right about him...
JAMAL
What do you mean?

MARIAH
I caught him in bed... with the
same woman...
Jamal is dumbfounded. He glares around, angry. He realizes
what this means for Mariah, and relaxes.
JAMAL
I warned you about him. I told
you he was trouble. And not just
to you, but to the firm as well.

MARIAH
I should’ve listened to you, I
know...
JAMAL
But instead you gave me the boot.
MARIAH
I know... I shouldn’t have fired
you, I’m sorry-

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 70.

JAMAL
I wasn’t talking about the job...
Mariah pauses and glares at him, expectantly. Jamal
adjusts, bothered by the slip-up.
JAMAL (CONT’D)
How are you holding up?
MARIAH
I’m in pieces, Jamal... I’m
barely hanging on, as it is.
JAMAL
I’m sorry this happened to you.

MARIAH
And on top of that, someone
hacked into my business account
and stole some serious amount of
money.

JAMAL
What?!
MARIAH
Yes... I’ve got a P.I. digging
around as we speak. It’s all so
crazy...
Mariah rubs her face in frustration. Jamal ponders over
the information.

JAMAL
You should inform your P.I. about
Vic’s possible involvement.
MARIAH
What do you mean?

JAMAL
I did see him unplugging a flash
drive from your system. I never
made that up...

Mariah looks away, embarrassed.

MARIAH
I’m really sorry for the way I
treated you.

JAMAL
As a colleague or as a friend?
MARIAH
Both... I don’t know why it
happened that way. Maybe it was
(MORE) (CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 71.

MARIAH (cont’d)
partly because you didn’t have
feelings for me but I do... Or
maybe it was-

JAMAL
I do.
Mariah glares at him, surprised. Jamal smiles sadly

JAMAL
I mean... I did... I
mean...(sighs) You’re kind and
friendly and you helped me out in
a tight situation.... But I was
worried that you would think I’m
crossing a line if I made a move.
So..., I kept things
professional. And I was right...
I meddled in your love-life and
got fired.

Mariah stares at him in shock and partial relief. Jamal

glances around, uncomfortable.
MARIAH
Jamal-

JAMAL
I really have to go. I’m already
late as it is.
Mariah stares at him, with yearn. Jamal observes her, his
face sad with regret.
JAMAL (CONT’D)
I really hope you meet someone
who values you one day. Because
that’s what you deserve, Mariah.

Jamal looks away and heads out the premises. Mariah

remains rooted, and glances around desperately.

94 EXT. STREET- CONTINUOUS

Jamal steps out the gate and heads along the road. Mariah
rushes out behind him.
MARIAH
Jamal, wait...
JAMAL
I really need to get to work.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 72.

MARIAH
I know.... I was... gonna offer
you a ride.

JAMAL
(sighs)
That’s really generous of you,
but I was gonna take an Taxi.
MARIAH
Jamal.... I know I’ve really hurt
you. But I hope I can atone for
my errors. Please... Consider
this a start... Please?
Jamal observes her, hesitantly. Mariah stares at him,
anxious. Jamal softens and nods, reluctantly. Mariah is
slightly relieved. They enter the car.

95 INT. LIVING ROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- HOURS LATER

Agnes is on the phone with Nolan when Mariah bursts into

the living room, and marches towards her. Agnes observes
her annoyance.
AGNES
I’ll have to call you back,
baby.... Okay... I love you too.
(hangs up)
MARIAH
Why didn’t you tell me Jamal jot
a job?
AGNES
(scoffs)
Because it was a need-to-know
basis information. And... based
on how you treated him, you
obviously didn’t need to know.
MARIAH
You don’t get to make that call,
mom.

AGNES
I didn’t make that call. You did.
You shut the guy out...twice. You
fired him because your boyfriend
commanded you to. Why should I
assume you cared how he lived?
Mariah is hurt by her mom’s words.

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 73.

MARIAH
That’s not fair, mom...
AGNES
On the contrary, my dear, it is.
All I offered the sweet guy were
listening ears. More than you
ever did. And we both know he
deserved more than that from you.

Agnes returns to her phone, slightly annoyed. Mariah

ponders over her mom’s words. She softens.
MARIAH
I’m sorry, mom... I shouldn’t
have been so brash with you-

AGNES
Yeah. You shouldn’t have. Now, I
understand you’re hurting with
everything that’s going on. But
last I checked, you put yourself
in this situation. Against my
advice. So, don’t lash out at me,
young lady.
Mariah glances around, remorseful. Her phone rings for a
moment, and she picks it.
MARIAH
Hello, detective?
P.I. (V.O.)
Good day, Miss Agwu. You’d be
pleased to know we have a name
connected to the hacking of your
account.
MARIAH
What?!
Agnes looks up, alarmed. Mariah turns to her, stunned.
MARIAH (CONT’D)
The P.I. found something. (to
phone) Who was it?
P.I. (V.O.)
Well, we filtered various links
of transfer chains, and
cross-referenced them with the
activity logs on your computer,
plus testaments of your visitors
from the past month.

(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 74.

MARIAH
Okay! And?
P.I. (V.O.)
We have a prime suspect.
Everything links to him.
MARIAH
Who?!
P.I. (V.O.)
One Vicory Murray Eta.
Mariah slowly drops the phone from her ears, stunned.
Agnes stares at her, expectantly. Mariah glances around,
confused. Her face hardens with rage.

96 EXT. STREET- DAY

Vic steps out of fancy restaurant with the lady, all
mushy. They get to a car and Vic makes to open the door
for her. Four EFCC officers approach him, with guns and
block his path.
VIC
Hey! What’s all this?!

EFCC OFFICIAL
Mr Vic Efa?
VIC
Yes.

EFCC OFFICIAL
EFCC. You’re under arrest for
bank fraud. Cuff him.
VIC
What...?

The other agents cuff him before he can argue, and another
agent cuffs the lady. They pull them to their patrol
vehicle. Vic struggles in protest as they take him. He
stops at the sight of Mariah standing next to the vehicle.

Mariah observe him with coldness. Vic glances around, in

guilt. He mumbles incoherently, and finally finds his
words.
VIC (CONT’D)
Mariah... Baby... Don’t do
this... You know I love you-
Mariah punches him squarely in the face, cutting his lip.
One of the officials quickly blocks her off. Vic is
stunned by her move. Mariah glares at him through vengeful
eyes.
 75.

The officers pull Vic and the lady into the vehicle and
drive off. Mariah watches the vehicle go, her eyes hard
and full of hurt.

97 INT. LIVING ROOM- AGNES’S HOUSE- HOURS LATER

Mariah sits on the couch with a pack of ice on her
knuckle. Agnes sits next to her, relieved.

AGNES
I wish I were there. I would’ve
given him a couple myself.
Mariah chuckles softly. Agnes rubs her shoulder.

AGNES (CONT’D)
How are you feeling, my love?
MARIAH
Drained, mom.... I wanted to kill
him. I wanted to pull his heart
out.
AGNES
Take that thought out of your
mind, Mariah. Vic is finally
going to pay for the harm he’s
done to you. And at least they
recovered most of the money.
MARIAH
It’s not about the money, mom....
With Vic, I lost more than
that... I lost time... Hope...
Something I shouldn’t have
invested in him to begin
with..... How do you get that
back, mom?

Agnes observes Mariah for a moment, sad. The doorbell

rings and she slowly goes to open. Agnes smiles softly, as
Jamal steps in. Mariah notices and sits up.
JAMAL
Hi, Mrs Agwu.
AGNES
Hey, Jamal. Come in.
They slowly walk towards Mariah, who’s surprised to see
him.
JAMAL
Hi, Mariah.

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 76.

MARIAH
Hi...
JAMAL
Your mom told me what was going
on. Are you alright?
Mariah glances at Agnes, who smiles warmly. She observes
Jamal affectionately for a moment.
MARIAH
Yeah... I’m alright.
Jamal smiles softly, and takes a seat. Agnes leaves to the
kitchen. They glance at each other awkwardly. Jamal
notices the hand.

JAMAL
What’s wrong with your hand?
Mariah glances at the hand, and smiles, embarrassed.

MARIAH
I...punched Vic in the face.
JAMAL
(shocked; amused)
You did not!

MARIAH
Well, his burst lip says
otherwise.
Jamal laughs loudly. Mariah joins him with a chuckle.

JAMAL
So.... How did it feel?
MARIAH
Good... For a moment.

JAMAL
Hey, at least you recovered the
money.
MARIAH
Not all of it. And there’s also
the hurt.
JAMAL
Hey... You won... Try to enjoy
it.
Mariah observes him in sad reflection, for a moment. She
doesn’t feel like she’s won. Jamal gives her a bright
smile. Mariah returns it with a faint one. Agnes enters
the living room and notice them staring at each other. She
watches them discreetly for a moment, and smiles.
(CONTINUED)
 CONTINUED: 77.

AGNES
Dinner’s ready, sweetie. Jamal,
you’re staying, right?

Jamal pauses, unsure for a moment, and glances at Mariah.

Mariah stares at him, hopeful.
MARIAH
Would you...?

Jamal relaxes, with a smile.

JAMAL
Yes. I’d love to.
Mariah is pleased. They walk to the dining area, together.

98 INT. DINING AREA- AGNES’S HOUSE- MONTAGE

Agnes, Mariah and Jamal eat dinner together. They discuss
happily, and share laughs. Mariah and Jamal exchange
affectionate glances many times at the table. Agnes
notices and smiles to herself.

99 INT. DINING AREA- AGNES’S HOUSE- MOMENTS LATER

Dinner’s finished.
JAMAL
Thank you, Mrs Agwu. The meal was
great, as always.

AGNES
It’s great having you around,
Jamal. You should come around
more often.

Jamal and Mariah share an awkward glance. He smiles

softly.
JAMAL
I’ll keep that in mind.

Mariah stares at him to read meaning, but he drops her

gaze. She feels like she’s fishing for nothing. Agnes’s
phone pings, and she checks it.
AGNES
Oh! It’s Nolan.

She rushes to the door. Mariah and Jamal share evasive

glances at each other. Agnes returns, moments later with
Nolan.

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 78.

NOLAN
Hello, everyone!
AGNES
Mariah darling, Nolan and I are
going on a date. We might stay a
while.
MARIAH
Oh, it’s okay, mom. You two have
fun.
AGNES
Thank you. Good night, Jamal.
Jamal gestures goodnight as they leave. Jamal and Mariah
glance at each other for a moment.
JAMAL
So..... What now?
MARIAH
Now..... I do the dishes, I
guess.
Mariah scans him, hoping for a sign. Jamal nods,
awkwardly. Mariah feels let down, and slowly picks the
dishes to the kitchen. Jamal ponders, unsure about what to
do, as he sits.
Mariah slowly washes dishes at the sink, her mind
reflective. She forces herself to come to mind and focuses
on the dishes. Jamal’s hands slowly wrap around Mariah’s
waist from behind, and she freezes. She closes her eyes
and savors the warmth of his body on hers.
MARIAH
Don’t give me hope if there’s
none.... Please...

Jamal smiles warmly behind her.

JAMAL
Never...

Mariah turns, overwhelmed by the stream of emotions

running through her body.
JAMAL (CONT’D)
I was afraid before, and I lost
you once because of it.... I’m
not making the same mistake
again.
Mariah glares at Jamal, unable to believe her dream is
about to come true.

(CONTINUED)
CONTINUED: 79.

MARIAH
What.... What are you trying to
tell me?

JAMAL
(smiles)
I’m saying....that I love you.
And I hope you do love me....
Mariah’s eyes gleam with tears as she heaves in disbelief.
She kisses him deeply for a lingering moment. They slowly
disengage, and Jamal gasps for breath.
JAMAL (CONT’D)
I take it that’s a yes...?

MARIAH
(giggles loudly; almost
teary)
Yes, Jamal! It is! I love you
too!

They laugh and kiss deeply and passionately, their hands

exploring, gripping, feeling what they’ve bottled inside
since the first time they met.
THE END.