Jump to content

sungrey

Members
 View Profile  See their activity

  • Posts

    1,643

  • Joined

  • Last visited

 Content Type 

Blog Entries posted by sungrey

  1. sungrey
    SOMERSET EPISODE 44
    Originally aired: September 13, 2007
    Written by: Steve Ungrey

    SCENE ONE

    FADE IN -- Giovanni’s

    Twilight has fallen on Somerset as Donna and Nick enter Giovanni’s. Giovanni and Rose aren’t out by the bar, prompting Nick to look around.

    NICK
    So what do you think?

    DONNA
    (Looks around) Nice. I like it. Reminds me of a trattoria that was just around the corner from my apartment. Clarke and I… (gets sheepish look on her face)

    NICK
    You can mention his name in front of me, you know.

    DONNA
    I’m sorry. I was going to say that Clarke and I went to that trattoria all the time, but this is Somerset. Time to make some new memories.

    NICK
    Yeah. (Pauses) You know, you could have come from work to meet me here. I didn’t mind.

    DONNA
    Hey, I felt like being a bit more casual outside the office. I got a short nap in and then freshened up, and now I’m ready to meet the Petterinos.

    NICK
    Better than meeting the Fockers, right? (Laughs)

    DONNA
    (Nods) Very funny. I want a sensitive guy for a friend and I end up getting a comedian.

    Giovanni and Rose come out from the kitchen area and see Nick and Donna, and before long they’re making their way to the entrance. Giovanni extends a hand to Nick.

    GIOVANNI
    Buongiorno, Nicholas. Welcome to Giovanni’s…

    NICK
    Thank you, Giovanni.

    Giovanni eyes Donna next to Nick and smiles. He takes Donna’s hand and kisses it.

    GIOVANNI
    And this must be the Bella Donna?

    DONNA
    (Blushing slightly) A regular Don Juan. (Turns to Nick) I love this guy.

    NICK
    At this rate, I’m glad he’s happily married. (Laughs)

    Giovanni and Rose laugh as they guide Nick and Donna over to a table and sit down. Music plays as we prepare to change scenes.

    DISSOLVE TO -- The Finial

    Over a bottle of wine, Zachary and George are having a quiet dinner and discussing the latest goings-on around the Cleybank Corporation and other places.

    GEORGE
    (Sips wine) Did I tell you Mike Wagner will be talking with me tomorrow regarding a big story on the X Project?

    ZACHARY
    Denise said you were taking a new tack when it came to the development in downtown Somerset. What are you trying to do, change the course of history?

    GEORGE
    (Brow furrows) Don’t tell me you actually agree with this cockamamie plan of Jack Martin’s.

    ZACHARY
    (Waves hand) I didn’t say that, Dad. I said the majority of people in this town seem to be behind Jack’s idea.

    GEORGE
    It all centers on one building. The Peoples Building is the key to everything.

    Zachary looks out the window, where he can see the skyscrapers of downtown Somerset and the white exterior of The Peoples Building shining in the twilight.

    ZACHARY
    And why in the hell would you want that building? It’s been sitting vacant for the most part.

    GEORGE
    I want the town to see that I’m not the bad guy. (Pauses) How is the relationship with the nurse at Somerset Hospital going?

    ZACHARY
    Slow. By choice.

    As Zachary continues nibbling on dinner, George can’t resist asking more questions.

    GEORGE
    So why aren’t you with her tonight? You’d rather eat dinner with your father than spend some quality time with…

    Zachary looks up at George like he’s asking too many questions.

    ZACHARY
    Uh, Dad? It’s all right. She’s studying for the last nurses’ exam she has to take. Once she takes that exam and passes it, the sky’s the limit as to what she can do.

    George takes a sip of wine and smiles slightly, obviously thinking that Zachary is dating beneath him yet not telling Zachary that to his face. Soft yet sinister music plays underneath, and the Somerset theme begins after that.

    We see an overhead shot of downtown, with the camera slowly pulling away from the buildings. The Somerset logo pops on the screen and goes into position at the center.

    BILL WOLFF: This… is Somerset. This portion of Somerset is brought to you today by Bounty, the paper towel that starts quicker so you finish quicker.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    SCENE TWO

    FADE IN -- Alana’s apartment

    Alana is on the couch watching a TV show when the doorbell sounds. Getting up, she finds she has more energy to walk over to the door and open it. When she opens the door, Mike is on the other side.

    Alana sees that Mike has takeout.

    ALANA
    Wagner, you gotta stop spoiling me. (Reaches and hugs him) After we eat, that is.

    MIKE
    This is an open invitation, I take it?

    ALANA
    It’s not our date. You’re not getting off that easily.

    Mike takes out two bags.

    MIKE
    Nor did I hope to get off scot-free. Chinese or Italian?

    ALANA
    What did you do, go ahead and order something from Column A and Column B?

    MIKE
    With sauce for both. How’s your appetite?

    ALANA
    Famished. I’ll take the Italian. Besides, I bet it’s Giovanni’s.

    Mike nods his head.

    MIKE
    You’re too predictable.

    ALANA
    Hey, when it’s Somerset’s best Italian hangout, I’d go there too.

    MIKE
    Well, then here you go. (Hands bag to Alana) And I will take the sesame beef. (Opens up his own bag) How are you feeling, by the way?

    ALANA
    I was noticing on the way to the door that I didn’t get tired at all. That’s the first time since I got sick that I’ve felt that way. Which means one thing…

    MIKE
    And what’s that?

    ALANA
    Dare we schedule our big date?

    Mike is about to dive into his sesame beef when he drops his fork. Looking up, he sees that Alana is serious about the date - not that he ever thought she wouldn’t be.

    DISSOLVE TO -- Police station

    Scott emerges from his office and grabs his coat, ready to leave for the day. As he’s about to exit, Jack enters the police station.

    JACK
    If you’re wondering, no, I didn’t come to pay any parking tickets.

    SCOTT
    (Chuckles) Then I suppose you’re here to see how I’m doing?

    JACK
    Well, Annabella’s over in Italy for the next several days - thought you could use a friend.

    SCOTT
    It just so happens I’m headed over to Bernard’s to grab a drink and possibly a bite to eat before heading home. Eaten yet?

    JACK
    As a matter of fact, I have not. Would you like some company?

    SCOTT
    Now I know why you came to the station. A dinner companion, perhaps?

    JACK
    (Laughs) No, I wanted to chat a bit about a few things that are related to the X Project and the police’s role in downtown. Willing to bend an ear?

    SCOTT
    Sure. Let’s go. I could use someone to listen to me, like the last time.

    Scott laughs as Jack and he leave the station, music playing us into the next commercial break. The picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    News from Nikolas makes its way through the hospital with unpredictable results. Be sure to watch Port Charles, part of the SONBC daytime lineup. Weekdays.

    A still shot of the Somerset logo is on screen with bumper music.

    BILL WOLFF: In just a moment, we’ll return with the second half of Somerset. Part two is brought to you today by Dawn, the dishwashing liquid that cuts through tough grease. Leaves grease off your hands and off your dishes.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    SCENE THREE

    FADE IN -- Alana’s apartment

    ALANA
    Any man that brings me breakfast AND dinner in the same day deserves a reward.

    Mike sets his food down and draws Alana in closer. Alana leans her head on Mike’s shoulder and closes her eyes.

    MIKE
    You know how much I care about you, right? Especially after that scare with meningitis.

    Alana opens her eyes, adjusts her head and looks at Mike.

    ALANA
    You act like you were going to lose me.

    MIKE
    Well, I didn’t know how bad off you were. But you rebounded pretty quickly once you were in the hospital.

    ALANA
    I guess being a patient for a change made me look at things a little differently. And I really appreciated all the company I had during my stay.

    MIKE
    You’re welcome.

    Alana is looking at Mike, soft music playing in the background. She leans in toward Mike and he approaches toward her face. The two close their eyes -- but the sound of a ringing telephone interrupts the moment.

    MIKE
    (Opens his eyes as Alana goes to get the phone and shakes his head) Long distance. It’s not the next best thing to being there.

    ALANA
    Hold that thought. (Picks up phone) Hello?… Oh, hey Taylor!

    As Alana is on the phone talking to Taylor, Mike laughs to himself and smiles as he sees Alana chatting on the phone. Yes, the immediate moment was ruined, but he hopes there are more chances around the corner. The music builds as we lead out of the scene…

    DISSOLVE TO -- Giovanni’s

    Nick and Donna are in one of the booths at the restaurant laughing and joking with Rose and Giovanni, with plates of pasta and a bottle of wine in front of them.

    ROSE
    Nick, I can’t believe you thought Donna wasn’t really there when you walked into Jack’s office!

    NICK
    (Shakes his head) Remember what happened to me? Having that dream that she was here in town? After that, I wasn’t taking any chances.

    DONNA
    Then he caught a whiff of my perfume…

    Donna flings her hair back and makes a hand gesture toward Nick, as if to say he was gone. Giovanni and Rose laugh.

    GIOVANNI
    You two said you’re taking it easy?

    NICK
    Yes. We call it friends with benefits. Donna’s getting used to Somerset and with our work schedules, things need time to develop. But when it comes to going out, I don’t think we’ve got plans to do it with anyone else.

    DONNA
    Not if I can help it, anyway.

    ROSE
    Is Jack working you pretty hard, dear?

    DONNA
    Not really. Today was just my first day and he’s got Susannah and I looking into the ownership of buildings here in Somerset. I’m slowly working up to more responsibilities and I have to start studying for the bar exam here in New York.

    GIOVANNI
    Sounds like we have another budding attorney.

    Donna laughs as she drinks her wine.

    DONNA
    I do. But I’m not necessarily interested in the seven-figure salaries or the exclusive club memberships. I want to make a difference in what I do -- to stay in touch with all walks of life.

    ROSE
    How very admirable. (Raises wine glass)

    GIOVANNI
    I’ll drink to that. My Bella Donna, you and Annabella would make great roommates.

    ROSE
    I think the same thing. You guys would get along great together.

    DONNA
    You know, I can’t believe Annabella is such a jet-setter. She’s got that great modeling career going…

    GIOVANNI
    And she does, but the one thing she wants to be when she’s here in Somerset is just an ordinary woman.

    ROSE
    Which she’s not, according to Giovanni. Annabella is the belle of his life, along with Tori.

    NICK
    (Turns to Donna) There’s another child too. They have a son Johnny, and he’s out in Denver running his own restaurant.

    DONNA
    Sounds like you have a successful family.

    GIOVANNI
    And it sounds like the two of you have a good future ahead, hopefully. (Raises glass) A toast to Donna as she begins her career here in Somerset.

    NICK
    (Raises glass) Hear hear.

    The four clink their glasses as the music builds and the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    SCENE FOUR

    FADE IN -- Bernard’s

    Jack and Scott are nursing drinks at the bar and plates of food, discussing a few things business-related.

    SCOTT
    I thought you guys were fairly certain you knew who owned The Peoples Building.

    JACK
    We don’t want a surprise, that’s all. I’m starting to concentrate my purchases toward the area by the riverfront. Isn’t that the area you said has the biggest problem?

    SCOTT
    Well, we’re getting occasional reports of minor stuff… youth disturbances… panhandling… nothing major is going on.

    JACK
    That’s a relief. It beats the days of mob shootouts, I’m sure.

    SCOTT
    Well, thankfully I wasn’t around for that era, but I don’t want to live through that anytime soon.

    JACK
    How would you feel about the concept of a… community center?

    Scott’s face immediately turns toward Jack and nods.

    SCOTT
    That’s a fantastic idea. Has that been part of the plan all along?

    JACK
    No, but I’ve been doing some thinking about it. (Pauses) George Cleypool’s been trying to paint me as an elitist rich bastard ever since I sold Delaney Brands. Which, you know I’m not.

    SCOTT
    (Laughs as he sips from his glass) Elitist you’re not. Bastard you’re not. Rich -- I think he’s got you there.

    JACK
    I have always given back to the community when able. This might be a way that I can help those less fortunate and still be able to complete parts of my project. Might even curry favors with other people.

    SCOTT
    Aw, relax, Jack. I think Nick’s going to take good care of you.

    JACK
    That’s another thing. I don’t want people thinking Nick Barclay is my puppet. Yes, I’m grooming him for political office, but now he’s got Donna in his life. I don’t want him to sacrifice the best thing that came along since…

    SCOTT
    (Puts down glass) Alana?

    CUT TO -- Alana’s apartment

    Alana is still on the phone with Taylor before she hangs up.

    ALANA
    No problem. I figured you wanted to check in and see how I was doing. (Pauses) Okay, talk to you soon. I may stop by tomorrow for a visit when I get checked out by the docs. (Pauses) Looking forward to it. Night!

    As Alana hangs up the phone she turns toward Mike, who is finishing up his food.

    ALANA
    I’m sorry. I got the feeling a big moment was interrupted here.

    MIKE
    Don’t worry about it. Taylor needed to know how to write up the nurses’ schedule, it sounds like.

    ALANA
    Yes. It’s something I usually do. We’re shorthanded in some areas, so that’s why I’m looking forward to Tori and a couple of others passing their exams here in a bit.

    MIKE
    To take some pressure off of you?

    ALANA
    And have nights like this. What do you think?

    MIKE
    Sounds good to me.

    ALANA
    Anyways, I’m looking forward to tomorrow. If I pass with flying colors, then I say you and I should go out the next night. Is it workable?

    Mike is happy at having heard a day at long last.

    MIKE
    (Smiling) Now that’s the best news I’ve gotten in a long time.

    Music plays as Alana comes back to the couch, picks up her plate and digs back in. She snuggles in by Mike’s shoulder once again, and Mike is grinning as he finishes his Chinese. The picture fades to black.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    A shot of the Somerset skyline appears as the credits roll.

    BILL WOLFF: Jewelry courtesy of Stephen Dweck. Fashions by Junior Gallery of New York.

    Join us each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. And stay tuned for Point Palace, which follows immediately over most of these stations.

    This program was pre-recorded.




  2. sungrey

    EPISODE 39 -- NEW!

    By sungrey,

    SOMERSET EPISODE 39
    Original airdate: 09/06/07
    Written by: Steve Ungrey

    SCENE ONE

    FADE IN – The Finial

    This is our first look at The Finial, a restaurant on the 18th floor of The Montgomery Building in downtown Somerset. The camera sweeps across the set and the décor and zeroes in on the bar, where Zachary is sitting and drinking a martini.

    The elevator at the back opens and Tori steps out, hair done up and wearing a tasteful late-summer dress that’s ideal for dining at places like Finial. Zachary rises to greet his dinner guest.

    ZACHARY: (Eyes Tori up and down) Wow. This is what you had to do?

    VICTORIA: What do you mean? (Looks down) Oh, go home and throw myself together? What do you think?

    ZACHARY: Not a nurse’s outfit, that’s for sure.

    VICTORIA: Hey, I have to take off the scrubs sometime. (Walks over to the bar as Zachary pulls out the chair for her to sit) Did you see about a table?

    ZACHARY: Yes. One will be available about 8:30 for us. Did you want to have a drink?

    VICTORIA: Sounds so good. (Motions bartender) Can I get a Jack Rose?

    Zachary appears a bit taken aback by Tori’s drink selection, as if he is a bit surprised.

    VICTORIA: What? (Smiles at Zachary) Can’t a girl have a good, strong drink once in a while?

    Victoria curves her lips as Zachary smiles. Obviously he knows tonight will be a good night.

    A music bridge plays as Zachary sips from his martini glass and the scene changes.

    CUT TO – Giovanni’s

    Down on ground level, at Giovanni’s, Jack is in dining with Scott as the two are discussing a few details of the X Project. The discussion centers around The Peoples Building, among other things.

    SCOTT: Have you found out anything about the previous owners of the building yet?

    JACK: No. Nick said he only knows George doesn’t have possession of the property. He said that if it’s in receivership or something along those lines I might be able to buy this building for a song.

    SCOTT: Oh, come on. You know you can buy the building for a better price than that.

    JACK: Yes, but I’d rather not.

    Scott isn’t surprised as he takes a drink from his beer glass.

    JACK: I’d rather buy low and sink more money into the insides. This building was beautiful in its heyday. And it can be again.

    As Scott looks at Jack describing the building, the Somerset theme begins and the city skyline is shown.

    We see an overhead shot of downtown, with the camera slowly pulling away from the buildings. The Somerset logo pops on the screen and goes into position at the center.

    BILL WOLFF: This… is Somerset. This portion brought to you today by Pantene, the shampoo made for all different types of hair with all different formulas, from dry to oily and in between. Pantene shampoo and conditioner.

    SCENE TWO

    FADE IN – Giovanni’s

    The conversation continues between Scott and Jack as Jack continues talking about The Peoples Building.

    SCOTT: You forget, I’ve heard about this conversation before. This isn’t all about architecture, is it?

    Jack appears mildly surprised.

    JACK: Why, Scott! What do you think this is about?

    SCOTT: Well… impressing Somerset for one thing… trying to restore a building to its former glory that may have seen better days…

    JACK: You forget I’m a hopeless romantic at heart. Underneath the steely exterior of a solid businessman like Jack Martin beats the heart of a ladies’ man.

    SCOTT: Which is why hearing you sit and wax rhapsody about a building long ago dilapidated could melt any woman into a puddle. Correct?

    JACK: You really need to get out more, Scott. (Laughs and drinks beer)

    SCOTT: I heard about the set-up job you did on Nick. The poor man never knew what hit him, probably.

    JACK: Oh, you referring to Donna?

    SCOTT: Donna – no, I was referring to Susannah. This was before you hired Donna. (Pauses) Come to think of it, you did set the poor bastard up when it came to Donna interviewing with you too.

    JACK: Not guilty, Scott. All Donna did was walk into my office for a job interview and then I discovered the truth about her. Then I set the two of them up.

    SCOTT: Speaking of setup, someone ought to set you up.

    Jack pauses in mid-drink and looks at Scott.

    JACK: And why would that be such a good idea?

    SCOTT: Because you could be occupied doing other things than trying to restore buildings to former glory. Of course, when it comes to The Peoples Building, that might not be so bad.

    JACK: Scott, my plan to bring Somerset back to its former glory is a lot closer to fruition than you might think.

    SCOTT: Oh, I know. And I know you’re serious when you hire a security detail to watch over The Peoples Building.

    JACK: You can’t blame a guy for wanting to get control of a building so badly, can you? Hey, maybe we can get the police a newer and more updated station.

    SCOTT: From your mouth to the voters’ ears, Jack.

    Jack drinks from his beer glass once again and looks out the window.

    JACK: No, Scott. I’m not interested in being set up with anyone. I had my chance at love and I blew it.

    SCOTT: Uh, hey… wait one minute here. I’ve seen dozens of pretty women on your arm over the last several years… some your age, some not…

    JACK: Et tu, Lt. Garfield? Since when can you lecture me about my dating habits when you’re hanging out with Giovanni’s daughter?

    SCOTT: (Pretends to clutch chest) Take the knife out of me, will you?

    The two laugh as the scene changes over and music plays.

    CUT TO – Somerset Hospital

    Taylor is in checking out Alana and making sure everything is all right as Alana sits up in bed.

    TAYLOR: (Takes out thermometer from Alana’s mouth) Good deal! Those antibiotics are really kicking in.

    ALANA: And I feel the best I’ve felt in a long time. My eyes aren’t so sensitive to the light now. My fever’s way down…

    TAYLOR: Hey, no one said you can resume work tomorrow.

    ALANA: I know, I know. (Holds up hand) But Patrick did say I could get out of here tomorrow, right?

    TAYLOR: (Checking chart) That he did. Provided you go right home and continue getting rest.

    ALANA: Oh, don’t worry. I have no plans to exert myself. I have something to live for now.

    TAYLOR: Yeah. What’s this I hear you finally knuckled under after all this time and asked Wagner out on a date?

    Alana blushes slightly as the music plays and the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    (COMMERCIAL BREAK)

    BILL WOLFF: We’ll continue with the second part of Somerset following station identification. This portion of today’s program has been presented by the moist desserts of Duncan Hines.

    ANNOUNCER: Sisters aren’t just doing it for themselves in song, they’re doing it on General Hospital. Be sure to watch GH Sisters, part of the exciting SONBC lineup. Weekdays!

    Music plays over a still picture of the Somerset logo.

    BILL WOLFF: We now continue with the second half of Somerset.

    SCENE THREE

    FADE IN – Somerset Hospital

    We return to Alana’s bedside as she describes finally giving in to her feelings.

    ALANA: Yes, yes. I finally said yes to Wagner to shut him up. (Laughs)

    TAYLOR: And because you have feelings for him, right?

    ALANA: Well…

    TAYLOR: I promise not to tell anyone on staff. (Giggles)

    ALANA: Taylor, truth be told… I’ve always liked Mike. I just never got around to asking him out because we both were so busy. Me more so than him – and then he went and got the investigative reporter job and I realized he was moving up in the world.

    TAYLOR: Just because he got a better job you went for him?

    ALANA: No, no. That’s not it at all. It was when I fell ill that I realized I was kidding myself. I kind of gave my feelings away when I was delirious with fever. He sat right by my bed as I nearly wrecked his right hand… and I must have said I loved him in my sleep.

    TAYLOR: You weren’t imagining things. Tori said you did that.

    ALANA: Yeah, where is Tori tonight, anyway? I thought you said she was on this evening.

    TAYLOR: No, she was on call but Patrick told her to knock off and focus on her studies for the nurses exam. So she went, got out one of her best dresses and went to The Finial to meet Zachary.

    ALANA: So she’s got a social life after all. Good for her.

    The music plays between scenes as we transition back to The Finial.

    CUT TO – The Finial

    Tori and Zachary have gone out on The Finial’s observation deck, which overlooks downtown Somerset. It’s kind of a cloudy evening, so the sun really isn’t visible, but the two have gotten some air.

    Tori sips from her Jack Rose as Zachary looks at her.

    ZACHARY: Next thing I know you’re going to be whipping out your Ernest Hemingway books.

    TORI: (Looks puzzled) Excuse me?

    ZACHARY: What, you never read The Sun Also Rises? Dad made both of us read literature when we were growing up.

    TORI: Oh, I did too… but not Hemingway.

    ZACHARY: The guy that narrates the book was drinking a Jack Rose throughout it.

    TORI: (Sips drink and smacks lips) I just love the taste of brandy. Dad introduced me to applejack when I was old enough to enjoy it.

    ZACHARY: Really… your dad encouraged you to drink?

    TORI: Not really. But he enjoyed applejack now and then with Mom. They’re mostly wine drinkers now, but they love to mix things up now and then.

    ZACHARY: No pun intended, right? Mix?

    TORI: (Catches what she said) Very funny.

    Tori turns to look out over Somerset. Zachary joins her at the observation platform. We see the camera as Zachary slowly takes his arm and wraps it around Tori’s shoulder. Tori turns to look at Zachary.

    TORI: You’re a smooth man, you know? I was wondering how long it would take you to put your arm around me.

    ZACHARY: Well, I operate to please.

    TORI: (Smiles) You’re certainly pleasing now, that’s for sure.

    She sips her drink and puts it down. Zachary smiles as Tori finishes drinking.

    ZACHARY: The taste of brandy on your lips, by any chance?

    TORI: Why do you ask?

    ZACHARY: Because I’m thirsty for brandy. And not out of a glass, either.

    TORI: Well then, how do you propose you get it?

    ZACHARY: I can think of one way.

    Tori laughs, but she also shudders with anticipation because she knows what’s coming. Zachary closes his eyes and wraps his arms around Tori’s back, drawing her closer in.

    Zachary and Tori share a deep, long kiss, the longest one they’ve had since they first started hanging out together. Their kiss is broken by the door opening to the observation deck and a host coming out.

    HOST: Excuse me, Mr. Cleypool? Your table is ready.

    ZACHARY: (Breaks kiss) Thank you. We’ll be right in.

    Tori smiles and is looking down before she raises her eyes in a come-hither stare at Zachary. The two kiss each other once again over a soft music background, and the kiss lingers into the next commercial break.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE FOUR

    FADE IN – The Finial

    Zachary and Victoria are sharing drinks at their table and waiting for their meals to arrive. Zachary picks up his glass and clinks it against Tori’s.

    ZACHARY: To a beautiful woman. To a nurse who has a great head on her shoulders. And a great body below it.

    TORI: You’re such a smooth talker, you know that? (Sips drink) But keep talking. I could get used to all of the compliments before too long.

    ZACHARY: Did I do enough to keep your mind off of the nurses’ exam coming up?

    Tori laughs as she thinks about her studies.

    TORI: You had to bring it up, didn’t you?

    ZACHARY: Oh, come on. I know you were looking forward to the break and getting a chance to unwind a bit.

    TORI: Why do you think I was so eager to accept your invitation? I’m about as ready for this exam as I ever will be. And I need to realize that.

    ZACHARY: You’ll be fine. I should keep you out a little late tonight so you can unwind. You don’t have a curfew, do you?

    TORI: Are you kidding? I don’t have to work tomorrow. (Leans in) And I intend on using tomorrow to explore different living options.

    ZACHARY: Problems with the family?

    TORI: No. It’s just time to strike out on my own. And I can have friends over when I want… (Leans in) and guys over when I want…

    ZACHARY: Oh, they’ll be tearing down your door to get in there. (Laughs)

    Zachary and Tori laugh again; they’re amazed at how well this date is going. The two smile as the music builds and the scene changes over.

    CUT TO – Giovanni’s

    Scott and Jack walk out of the restaurant and stand outside.

    JACK: I hope you weren’t thinking I was serious when I joked about you and Annabella.

    SCOTT: Naa, not at all. It’s bad enough her mom and dad are on her about it.

    JACK: Rose and Giovanni are kind of looking at you?

    SCOTT: Yeah. It’s stupid, right?

    Jack studies Scott’s face.

    SCOTT: Uh, Jack… it IS stupid, isn’t it?

    JACK: You’re going to think I’m funny when I say this, but I could see the two of you together.

    SCOTT: Well, she’s going back to Italy next week for several days, so maybe she’ll meet her mystery guy over there.

    JACK: One can wonder, right?

    Jack shakes Scott’s hand and says his goodbyes, leaving Scott to ponder whether Annabella would meet her mystery guy over in Italy. The picture fades to black as Scott is thinking.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    The Somerset theme plays as the credits roll over a still picture of downtown Somerset.

    BILL WOLFF: Women’s dresses by Piazza Sempione. Men’s jackets by Max Studio.

    Join us each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. And be sure to stay tuned for Salem Lives, coming up next over most of these same stations.

    Beginning Monday, be sure to also watch as Point Palace will follow Somerset. That’s Point Palace, starting Monday.

    This program was pre-recorded.







  3. sungrey
    SOMERSET EPISODE 42
    Written by: Steve Ungrey
    Original airdate: 09/11/07


    SCENE ONE

    FADE IN -- Ski’s Sub Shop

    Ski’s Sub Shop is the newest business our viewers get to see in Somerset. It’s a small sandwich shop located around the corner from Martin Enterprises, on the ground floor of the Wentworth Building.

    Patrick and Susannah have adjourned to Ski’s to have a light lunch and catch up on what’s been going on.

    SUSANNAH
    (Looks around) You know, I never saw this place before when I was making my travels through downtown. Talk about being out of the way.

    PATRICK
    Most of the hospital staff swears by the food. We sometimes sneak out and bring subs back if we’re trying to catch a quick bite between patients.

    SUSANNAH
    I’ll have to keep this place in mind. My 70-hour weeks might be coming to an end here shortly.

    Patrick laughs, albeit a bit nervously, when Susannah says this.

    SUSANNAH
    (Smiles) What… you think I’m kidding? And don’t tell me you’re 9-to-5 type guy who trades his white coat for a set of clubs and plays hooky in the afternoon.

    PATRICK
    I wish. The last time I played golf, I swear I had to check the foursome out afterwards for cuts and bruises.

    Susannah nearly spits out her coffee, laughing at Patrick’s joke.

    PATRICK
    You see? I got you to smile.

    Susannah cleans off her mouth with a napkin as soft music plays to transition scenes.

    DISSOLVE TO -- Cleybank Corporation

    Mike stands there in disbelief as George announces his intention to buy The Peoples Building.

    MIKE
    Oh, boy. This isn’t going to end well.

    GEORGE
    And why won’t it? I certainly have the money to purchase it.

    MIKE
    But what if it isn’t for sale? What if someone already owns it?

    GEORGE
    That’s not my problem.

    MIKE
    Well, what IS my problem, Mr. Cleypool, is that I’ve already done a story on Jack Martin’s intent to purchase the building.

    GEORGE
    Jack Martin doesn’t have a leg to stand on.

    MIKE
    He’s stronger than you think.

    George produces a folder with papers inside it. Handing it to Mike, he smiles.

    MIKE
    Is this what’s called bribing a reporter? You know I’m above…

    GEORGE
    It is NOT a cash bribe, Mr. Wagner. You know I’m above that.

    MIKE
    How do I?

    GEORGE
    What this is, Mr. Wagner, is a desire for Cleybank to do a special section on the opening of the new shopping center I’m building north of Somerset. Think of all the ad money that would be bringing the Register.

    MIKE
    I’ll have to run this by Norman first.

    GEORGE
    No need. I already did.

    Mike, by now, is growing visibly agitated. Is he going to be drawn into doing a story he doesn’t want to do? As he thinks about it, the Somerset theme starts.

    We see an overhead shot of downtown, with the camera slowly pulling away from the buildings. The Somerset logo pops on the screen and goes into position at the center.

    BILL WOLFF: This… is Somerset. This portion of Somerset is presented today by Gain, the detergent that leaves a sunshine-fresh smell on your clothes. Get clean at a lower price, and rid stains with Gain.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    SCENE TWO

    FADE IN -- Cleybank Corporation

    The conversation between Mike and George continues.

    MIKE
    I have a better idea for this story.

    GEORGE
    Well, sit. I’d love to hear it. (Points at counter) Coffee?

    MIKE
    Thanks.

    As Mike goes to pour a cup of coffee, George continues talking.

    GEORGE
    I sense you’re reluctant to do this story, Mr. Wagner, and I don’t know why.

    MIKE
    It’s because of one thing. I think the bigger story throughout this whole thread is that you and Jack cannot stand each other, and many people in Somerset would like to know why.

    GEORGE
    You know the answer to that as well as anyone else. You’re too young to recall it, but Jack sold Delaney Brands to a company that had no interest in keeping the property here in Somerset.

    MIKE
    But my readers don’t know that. I want to do a bigger story. I think people would love to know about the war between you two. I’m not saying I want to get you guys in the same room and talk, because it might trigger World War III…

    George thinks it over and nods.

    GEORGE
    I like the way you think, Wagner.

    MIKE
    And besides, you both want the same building, right?

    GEORGE
    Correct. Why don’t you talk with Denise about scheduling more time with me to talk about my desire to buy the building?

    MIKE
    And I can run my idea by Norman. I’m sure he’ll love it.

    George shakes Mike’s hand as music plays to transition scenes.

    DISSOLVE TO -- Ski’s

    Susannah is finishing up a half-sub with ham and salami while Patrick has the works. In between bites, the two are talking about work.

    SUSANNAH
    I get Donna in the office later this week, so I’ll be able to breathe a bit and concentrate on other matters.

    PATRICK
    Including having a social life?

    SUSANNAH
    Like what type of social life do you want me to have?

    PATRICK
    Well, let’s see… I know you’re into jazz music.

    SUSANNAH
    You remembered that from so long ago, I’m impressed.

    PATRICK
    I know you like sports from when you played softball. We’ve got some great minor league sports here in town.

    SUSANNAH
    If I didn’t know any better, I’d swear you were angling to take me out.

    PATRICK
    Well, listen… I know you’re not ready for anything more than just light chit-chat and friends thanks to your schedule, and I respect that. You think my schedule is any different?

    SUSANNAH
    If anything, it’s worse. (Laughs)

    PATRICK
    You got that right.

    As Patrick takes a bite of sub, the two switch conversation subjects.

    SUSANNAH
    I hear Alana is out of the hospital?

    PATRICK
    (Looks up) Yes, yes. She had an attack of viral meningitis, but luckily we were able to get to it in time and stop the fever from doing any damage.

    SUSANNAH
    What a relief. That’s nothing to sneeze at, no pun intended.

    PATRICK
    Well, she’s got a great guy taking care of her while she’s recuperating. About the only thing she’s lacking is someone to help clean her apartment.

    SUSANNAH
    Tell her if she absolutely needs help, I’ll volunteer my services.

    PATRICK
    I didn’t know you were a cleaning woman on the side.

    SUSANNAH
    I’m not. I just want to widen my circle of friends here in Somerset, that’s all. I’ll have Donna once she arrives, assuming she’s the type that likes to hang out after work…

    \PATRICK
    If all her time isn’t monopolized by Nick, that is…

    The two laugh and share a fun moment as the music builds into commercial break.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    The shareholders have come home to roost… will the news be good or bad? Tune in to Novi, part of the SONBC daytime lineup. Weekdays.

    A still shot of the Somerset logo appears with accompanying music.

    BILL WOLFF: In just a moment, we’ll continue with the second half of Somerset. This portion of our program is presented by digestible, all-vegetable Crisco, for foods that taste great without the cholesterol.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    SCENE THREE

    FADE IN -- City Hall

    Nick is working at his desk and has his back turned to the door. He’s on the phone with Mike, who has returned to the Register.

    NICK
    (Looks out window) George wants to buy The Peoples Building. I was afraid of that.

    MIKE
    I don’t want word to leak out that we talked, but my hands are tied. Apparently Norman and George have already talked and the paper will get some advertising for the new shopping center.

    NICK
    Isn’t that a bribe?

    MIKE
    In this day and age it’s called revenue. I know our owners in Denver will love to see that.

    NICK
    Whatever happened to the days of local ownership, anyway? (Laughs)

    As Nick is talking, we see a shadowy figure at Nick’s door and the figure creeps in behind Nick.

    NICK
    Anyhow, I’m sure Jack will be willing to cooperate.

    MIKE
    Oh, I know he will. In fact, when I sent him an e-mail on his PDA he responded back right away with three words. Bring it on.

    NICK
    (Laughing) Sounds like Jack. I think that will make for some good copy for you.

    MIKE
    I’m going to head in to talk to Norman since he just got back. I’ll keep you posted.

    NICK
    Sounds good. Take care.

    As Nick puts down the phone, a hand touches Nick’s shoulder. Instead of jumping out of his seat, Nick smiles.

    NICK
    I always wanted to get a shoulder rub from my secretary. (Turns around) But you’ll do.

    We see Donna’s smiling face, as she takes off her sunglasses.

    DONNA
    Considering you don’t have a secretary… You’re just lucky I wasn’t someone else, handsome.

    NICK
    Welcome back. I missed you.

    Nick rises and embraces Donna, lightly kissing her on the lips and then tightly holding on to her.

    DONNA
    Me too. See? This friends with benefits thing isn’t bad after all, is it?

    NICK
    (Breaks embrace) Naa. I’ll get used to it. So are you back to stay?

    DONNA
    You bet. Jack has me at the Somerset Inn for as long as I need to use it. I told him it’d hopefully be a couple weeks tops.

    NICK
    Annabella is back in Italy for a week, but when she gets back she said she’s dying to meet you in the flesh.

    DONNA
    I’m looking forward to getting settled in. Mom said she can’t wait to meet you either. I told her we weren’t exactly inseparable just yet, but…

    NICK
    Hey, the fact you’re back here is good enough for me. (Kisses Donna once again)

    DONNA
    Just wanted to stop in and say hi. I’ve got to get back and do some unpacking. Did you want to do the honors and walk with me to work on my first day?

    NICK
    You act like you’re in kindergarten and I’m walking you to school.

    DONNA
    Mom and Dad did that on my first day of kindergarten. Been there, done that. This is a new chapter of my life.

    NICK
    Then… (takes Donna’s hand and kisses it) I’d be delighted.

    Donna smiles and blows a kiss to Nick as she leaves the office. Nick sits down to start working again as the music builds to change scenes. Now if he can only recall what he was working on since he got so distracted…

    DISSOLVE TO -- Ski’s

    Victoria has taken up a corner table with a diet soda and a meatball sub, and she has numerous papers spread out in front of her. Taylor walks in the front door and sees Victoria and can’t help but laugh.

    TAYLOR
    (Walking over) You are going to be soooo glad when this exam is over, aren’t you?

    VICTORIA
    Don’t remind me. I take the exam Friday and I can’t wait until it’s behind me. I’m going to go out with Zachary that night and have a blast.

    TAYLOR
    How is the studying going?

    VICTORIA
    I think I have a decent grasp of it. I’m worried how I’ll adapt to the material since it’s pretty damn hard.

    TAYLOR
    You’ll manage. You’ve done a good job before.

    VICTORIA
    Hey. Sit with me and keep me company until I get the urge to start studying again.

    TAYLOR
    I think I can do that. Let me grab something to order.

    Taylor rises from the table and walks over to place an order as Victoria looks down at her notes, wondering how she’s doing. The picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    SCENE FOUR

    FADE IN -- Ski’s

    Victoria and Taylor are chatting over subs as Victoria has her books pushed to the side.

    VICTORIA
    I’m so glad I pushed my decision to move out to after the exam was out of the way. I’m going to lie low the night before the test because I just want to be as simple as possible.

    TAYLOR
    (Munching on sub) Well, you won’t have to worry. You’ll pass this exam.

    VICTORIA
    I’m not sure. Alana said she actually failed this test once before she passed it.

    TAYLOR
    Then if the worst happens you’ll have a built-in escape hatch, right?

    VICTORIA
    Right. (Pauses) Have you talked to Alana today?

    TAYLOR
    She’s lying low. Patrick told her not to really start moving around until later this week, so she’s catching up on TV, sitting at her computer, talking with her folks…

    VICTORIA
    In short, living her life for a change.

    TAYLOR
    I’ll tell you one thing. (Smiles) That date with Mike can’t get here fast enough for her.

    Victoria laughs as Taylor cracks up too. Music builds for the next scene.

    DISSOLVE TO -- The Register

    Mike is in Norman’s office pitching his idea for a bigger story.

    NORMAN
    So you think you can pull off a Jack Martin vs. George Cleypool story and their fight over The Peoples Building, huh?

    MIKE
    Jack’s already said he’d take part provided he didn’t have to sit in the same room with George. I can do a he said, he said type of story and have a great faceoff with both of them.

    NORMAN
    I like what I’m hearing from you. Let’s go ahead and do it on one condition.

    MIKE
    You name it.

    NORMAN
    You should investigate who really owns this property. Might make for a good third party story.

    Mike begins to see the merit of that idea as the music builds and the picture fades to black.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    The Somerset theme plays over the closing credits.

    BILL WOLFF: Men’s slacks by Dockers. Watches by Marvella.

    Join us again each weekday at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. And be sure to stay tuned for Point Palace, which follows immediately over most of these SONBC stations.

    This program was recorded.


  4. sungrey
    SOMERSET EPISODE 43
    Original airdate: September 12, 2007
    Written by: Steve Ungrey

    SCENE ONE

    FADE IN -- Somerset Inn

    We see the camera panning up to an upper-floor room, and the camera cuts to Donna in front of the mirror, partially dressed. She’s leaning in applying mascara when there’s a knock at the door.

    DONNA
    (Under her breath) Somehow I knew he’d be on time. (Louder) Hold on a bit!

    As Donna goes toward the door, she ventures toward the bathroom and partially shuts that door, and she extends an arm out to open the hotel room door. Like before, Nick is left looking into an empty room.

    NICK
    Somehow I knew you’d be partially ready to go.

    DONNA
    What was that, handsome?

    NICK
    I could hear you muttering inside the room. I hope you were smiling when you said that.

    DONNA
    These walls must be thinner than Kate Moss… Well, since you’re here, maybe you can help me decide what to wear.

    NICK
    You could wear a sack and make it look like Gucci.

    DONNA
    Ha ha, very funny. But flattering, thanks.

    Nick goes over to a recliner and sits down, snickering to himself.

    NICK
    I don’t see why you’re obsessing. Jack isn’t the type of authoritarian boss that makes his employees wear suits and look like drones.

    Donna peeks her head out and smiles.

    DONNA
    Because I want to look nice on my first day there. You wouldn’t understand, you’re a guy.

    NICK
    Oh, so looking sloppy and wearing a ripped T-shirt and thong underwear won’t win me a job as Somerset’s city manager, huh?

    DONNA
    Now that I’d like to see. Can you hand me that skirt on the bed?

    Nick gets up from the recliner, looks over, sees it and tosses it in Donna’s direction. As he tosses, we see a hand stick out from the bathroom.

    DONNA
    (From inside bathroom) Somehow I knew you’d do that. You’re just very lucky I can catch these things, you know.

    NICK
    Relax. What time do you have to be into the office, anyway?

    DONNA
    I told Jack I’d be there around 9:30. What time is it, anyway?

    NICK
    (Checks his watch) 8:15. You’re doing fine.

    DONNA
    Oh, I know that. I was hoping to catch a bite to eat before we went over to Martin Enterprises.

    NICK
    There’s a coffee shop just down the street…

    DONNA
    They have a continental breakfast downstairs that’s free for hotel guests. I think they’d look the other way.

    NICK
    If they didn’t serve me, I’d order the place shut down.

    Donna emerges from the bathroom, fully dressed and ready to go. She reaches in her purse, spritzes a little Enchantress on her, and comes over to Nick.

    DONNA
    Now then, handsome…

    She wraps her arms around Nick and quickly kisses him.

    NICK
    You look very nice.

    DONNA
    Just very nice, huh? I thought you’d say I made your eyes pop out of their head.

    NICK
    No… that was Washington. And when you surprised me in Jack’s office.

    DONNA
    (Kisses Nick again) But there you didn’t think I was real.

    NICK
    You won’t let me forget that, will you?

    DONNA
    Not a chance. (Breaks the embrace and puts an arm around Nick’s side) All set to walk me to school?

    NICK
    (Laughing) Lead the way.

    As Donna and Nick exit Donna’s hotel room, the music plays softly at first -- but then it turns more scary as the scene transitions.

    DISSOLVE TO -- Outside Petterino house

    For some reason in this scene it is night. We see a car pull up and stop in Giovanni and Rose’s driveway. Victoria opens the door and steps out.

    Looking around, she looks up at the sky and sees how dark it is.

    VICTORIA
    Mom? Dad?

    She goes up to the front door to open it, only to find she can’t. Victoria can’t find her keys either.

    She returns to the driveway and comes down to the front, right by the sidewalk. The air is still, silent. The only thing we hear is scary music, presumably from an organ.

    Victoria slowly looks up as she sees the area around her getting darker. Then she screams, and the picture immediately cuts to black. We quickly cut to the Somerset opening.

    We see an overhead shot of downtown, with the camera slowly pulling away from the buildings. The Somerset logo pops on the screen and goes into position at the center.

    BILL WOLFF: This… is Somerset. This portion of Somerset is presented today by Pringles and new Pringles Cracker Stix, the light alternative to potato chips.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    SCENE TWO

    IMMEDIATE CUT TO -- Outside Petterino house

    Victoria is screaming because she sees something really odd -- a gigantic nursing textbook, roughly 10 times her size, is looming over her. Next to the textbook is the world’s largest hypodermic needle and a gargantuan pair of scissors.

    Victoria takes off running down the block. The textbook follows, with the needle and scissors not too far behind. Before long, papers -- presumably Victoria’s notes -- begin falling from the sky.

    She’s running as fast as she can, but Victoria can’t outrun the competition. She stumbles and falls down, looking up.

    The book leaps in the air, with the needle and scissors following, and the picture immediately cuts to black…

    CUT TO -- Petterino house

    Victoria bolts upright in bed, with a loud gasp. Her face is drenched in sweat and she’s still breathing heavily. Then she looks at her surroundings and bursts out laughing.

    Giovanni runs down the hall and into Victoria’s room.

    GIOVANNI
    Tori? Qualcosa non va?

    Giovanni runs over and hugs Tori, who is still giggling a bit.

    VICTORIA
    Nothing’s wrong, Dad. I just had a nightmare -- but when you think about it, it was actually pretty funny.

    GIOVANNI
    Cara mia… nightmares aren’t funny, especially if they make you like this…

    VICTORIA
    No, Dad, trust me. I got out of my car and you guys weren’t here. I didn’t have my keys and so I came back toward the road… and I saw this big textbook staring down at me. (Starts laughing) And a needle and scissors.

    GIOVANNI
    (Covers his eyes) E che cavolo.

    VICTORIA
    Oh, brother is right. I tried to outrun the book and everything but I stumbled and fell and got caught. I woke up just before the worst happened.

    GIOVANNI
    Cara mia… you’ve been studying too hard.

    VICTORIA
    Thank God the exam is tomorrow. I don’t think I can take much more of this.

    GIOVANNI
    How much sleep did you get?

    VICTORIA
    Enough. I think I crawled into bed about 1 this morning.

    GIOVANNI
    You’ve got enough. (Extends hands) Come with me. You need to have a good breakfast in you.

    VICTORIA
    Dad… that’s not going to solve my problems.

    GIOVANNI
    (Turns around and looks at Victoria) Humor me, OK? When was the last time I spent time with my daughter?

    Victoria weakly smiles and sniffles a bit.

    VICTORIA
    Now how can I refuse an offer like that?

    Music plays to transition scenes as Victoria and Giovanni walk down the hall toward the stairs.

    DISSOLVE TO -- Martin Enterprises

    Joanne is busy at the front desk when Nick and Donna step off the elevator. Joanne looks up and smiles.

    JOANNE
    Donna! Welcome to your first official day here at Martin!

    DONNA
    Thanks, Joanne. (Motions to Nick) I brought company in case things got rough.

    JOANNE
    I don’t think you have to worry . You look quite nice, by the way. I’d recognize Paisley’s anywhere.

    DONNA
    (Twirls in place) Thanks. You’re the second person that’s told me I look nice. I’ll take it as a compliment from both of you. Are you a Paisley’s shopper?

    JOANNE
    Loyal to the end.

    DONNA
    You and I might have to take an afternoon and get together sometime. (Laughs)

    JOANNE
    I’d love it. I may be Jack’s assistant, but I’m just one of the gang when it comes to being away from work. Just ask everyone here.

    NICK
    So is Jack.

    Jack comes out of his office with a whole pile of folders. Donna gets a worried look on her face.

    DONNA
    That’s not all for me, is it?

    JACK
    I’m… (struggles with pile) afraid… so. This… (almost loses his balance) piled up in… your absence… (several folders fall off the top) Whoa!!

    Donna kneels down to pick up the folders, with Nick picking up a couple of folders in the process.

    JACK
    Thanks, guys. I’ll set these on your desk, Donna. Unless you want to take a look at a couple now?

    DONNA
    (Rises to her feet) Well, let me see what’s in my hand.

    Donna opens the folder and gets a puzzled look on her face. She looks in the folder a bit further and then she gets a look on her face like she realizes what’s going on.

    DONNA
    Okay, Jack… is this a practical joke?

    Jack smiles at Donna.

    JACK
    April Fool several months early. (Sets the folders down) All the folders are blank. I couldn’t resist playing a joke on my newest employee. (Extends hand) I officially welcome you aboard.

    DONNA
    (Shakes Jack’s hand) Thanks. I think. Did I pass the initiation? Am I a member of the sorority?

    JACK
    With flying colors. I do have an assignment on your first day, but it is not what you think. In other words, no hundred folders to peek through.

    NICK
    Okay, this is where I get off the ride.

    JACK
    Actually, Nick, I’d like you to come in my office as well. You might be able to help out.

    Nick and Donna look at each other as the camera slowly pauses on Jack’s face. The picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    Dahlia gets a surprise she didn’t expect. Make sure to watch to the end on S*T*E*A*M, part of the SONBC daytime lineup. Weekdays.
    A still shot of the Somerset logo is on screen with bumper music.

    BILL WOLFF: In just a moment, we’ll return with the second half of Somerset. Part two is brought to you today by Lilt, the only home permanent with gripper sponges. The way to shiny and beautiful hair.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    SCENE THREE

    FADE IN -- Alana’s apartment

    We see Alana sitting on the couch with a cup of coffee as the doorbell rings. Alana rises from the couch, and she appears to have a little more spring in her step than before. She opens the door to see Mike there with two bags.

    ALANA
    Fast food for breakfast, Wagner?

    MIKE
    I was hoping you hadn’t eaten yet.

    ALANA
    (Eyes bags) Well, as long as it’s not loaded with cholesterol…

    MIKE
    At this stage when you’re getting your appetite back, who cares?

    ALANA
    Excuse me? I am a nurse for a living… what do you have in there?

    MIKE
    Take a look for yourself.

    Alana sees in the bag that there isn’t any pre-made food. The bags contain eggs, a package of sausage links and pancake mix.

    ALANA
    Wagner, what is this?

    MIKE
    Chef Mike at your service. Directions to your stove?

    ALANA
    Oh… (Embraces Mike) You didn’t have to do that for me.

    MIKE
    I insist. It’s the least I can do to help nurse a nurse back to health. How are you, anyway?

    ALANA
    Better. I’m driving to the hospital later today -- and before you say anything, Patrick said I could drive…

    MIKE
    (Raises hands in a hands-up gesture) Not guilty, Alana. I know you’re perfectly capable of operating a car. Now I’m afraid I’ll get run over.

    ALANA
    You get a free pass thanks to those bags. Need any help?

    MIKE
    Not a lick. Sit and enjoy. This is one time I wait on you.

    Alana smiles as she sits at the kitchen table, watching Mike take the items out of the bags, as the music plays to transition scenes.

    DISSOLVE TO -- Petterino kitchen

    Victoria is at the table eating a bowl of cereal and toast as Giovanni prepares his own cereal bowl. Once he is done, Giovanni comes over and sits at the table.

    VICTORIA
    (Looks up) Delicious, Dad. You didn’t have to do this, you know.

    GIOVANNI
    What, stay at home so I could have a heart-to-heart with my youngest?

    VICTORIA
    Well… that too.

    GIOVANNI
    If you’re wondering about breakfast (points at cereal) it came out of a box.

    VICTORIA
    (Giggles) Dad, I know. (Pauses) Do you know how long it’s been since you and I have had a sit-down talk like this?

    GIOVANNI
    Too long. Rose pointed it out to me.

    VICTORIA
    Oh, so you wanted to sit down and talk to me because Mom prompted you to do it?

    GIOVANNI
    (Taken aback) Tori! Relax! I’m here of my own free will. Why do you think I waited until Annabella had gone back to Italy for a week?

    VICTORIA
    You’ve never favored any of us, you know. You treat all of us as equals, and I respect that.

    GIOVANNI
    You’ve just been going through so much lately with studying and the hours at the hospital, that I feel I’m losing touch with you.

    Victoria’s mouth drops open as she drops her spoon.

    VICTORIA
    Daddy… My God, you know I’m always here for you and Mom. Just because I’m thinking of moving out on my own once I pass this last exam doesn’t mean I’m going to leave the family for good.

    GIOVANNI
    I know. But I miss the younger Tori. The one that was active in high school and had friends over at all hours making signs for Somerset Catholic’s football games. The one that ran for student council president and won, and she went on to show all of Somerset what a good president she was.

    VICTORIA
    I remember how proud you were of me.

    GIOVANNI
    You’d beat Hillary in a landslide if you ran for president.

    VICTORIA
    I’m way too young, Dad. I’ll leave the politics to Nick.

    GIOVANNI
    Right, right. Let him handle the civic duties. (Pauses) I just worry that you’re working yourself up into a lather over this.

    VICTORIA
    Dad…

    Victoria rises from the table and looks out the window.

    GIOVANNI
    All this stress isn’t good for you, you know.

    VICTORIA
    Dad… it’s healthy stress. That nightmare I had, now that I think of it, was hilarious. Being chased by a textbook, a needle and scissors? Priceless.

    GIOVANNI
    Still…

    VICTORIA
    (Turns to face Giovanni) Dad, what was it like when you and Mom opened the restaurant?

    GIOVANNI
    Long, hard hours. Making sure every last detail was taken care of and every I was dotted and every T was crossed. That the recipes I had were crafted to perfection.

    VICTORIA
    Being a nurse involves long and hard hours on the job. But I love what I do, just like you and Mom do. I wouldn’t change my profession for the world. Helping to heal people is what I love.

    GIOVANNI
    Then the case is closed. I will always cherish my stellina.

    Victoria is stopped cold by what Giovanni said. She has tears in her eyes as it’s obvious she’s about to cry.

    VICTORIA
    You haven’t called me little star in years.

    GIOVANNI
    I’m full of surprises. Now good luck tomorrow and go knock em dead.

    Victoria hugs Giovanni and embraces him tightly.

    GIOVANNI
    My little star.

    The camera focuses on Victoria, eyes closed and still hugging her dad. Very soft music plays in the background as the picture slowly fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    SCENE FOUR

    FADE IN -- Martin Enterprises

    In Jack’s office, Donna sits down with Nick as Jack gathers the folder he wants Donna to look at.

    JACK
    I wanted your first day here to be a memorable one, so I figured I’d stick you and Susannah with a good project.

    Donna takes her glasses out of her purse and puts them on, as she takes the folder from Jack and looks at it.

    DONNA
    This appears to be a… map of downtown Somerset.

    NICK
    My, you know your geography pretty well already.

    DONNA
    Knock it off, sexy. (Points) I just recognize the river right here and the highway coming in alongside downtown.

    JACK
    You’re very perceptive, Donna. It’s a current map of downtown. You’ve noticed I circled part of the downtown area… it’s the area I’ve reserved for the X Project and its spinoffs.

    DONNA
    All right. What do you want Susannah and I to do?

    JACK
    Find out the status of all the buildings in this area. I’m trying to find out if Cleybank Corporation owns anything that could stand in the way of this project going forward full steam ahead.

    NICK
    You’re going to have Donna and Susannah check on who owns the buildings, in other words?

    JACK
    Yes. I know we had a couple of foreclosure sales a couple years ago here…

    DONNA
    Well, wouldn’t Nick have those records in his office?

    NICK
    I have some. If an out-of-state buyer owns a building, however, there’s a chance it could be a Cleybank subsidiary. If Jack wants to buy a building and it’s Cleybank property, chances are George would either put the kibosh on it or ask for 10 times its value.

    DONNA
    We’ll get right on it for you. I’ll need to brush up on New York’s property laws…

    JACK
    It’ll help for when you’re ready to take the bar exam here, right?

    DONNA
    Every little bit helps.

    Donna studies the folder as the picture fades to black.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    A shot of the Somerset skyline appears as the credits roll.

    BILL WOLFF: Blouses by Regina Porter. Jackets by Ralph Lauren.

    Join us each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. And stay tuned for Point Palace, which follows immediately over most of these stations.

    This program was pre-recorded.


  5. sungrey
    Beginning with Episode 41, Point Palace will be listed as the soap following Somerset on the "SONBC daytime lineup".

    This change is due to the suspension of production for Salem Lives. Somerset wishes PhoenixRising05 and Roman all the best and hopes to see one or both of them back soon with new projects.


  7. sungrey
    SOMERSET EPISODE 41
    Written by: Steve Ungrey
    Original airdate: 09/10/07

    SCENE ONE

    FADE IN -- Cleybank Corporation

    A new day has dawned in Somerset, and this day finds George sitting at his office desk with a mountain of paperwork in front of him. He gets a little overwhelmed and it almost looks like he’s going to make a sweeping gesture to clear the table. Then he thinks better.

    GEORGE
    No, I better not. It would take me days to clean that mess up.

    One of George’s associates -- or henchmen, whichever you’d prefer -- Doug Benedict, pops into the office.

    GEORGE
    You took a chance on showing up here, my friend.

    DOUG
    I figured you’d want this information firsthand. (Hands George a sheet of paper) This is the information you’re going to need for the hospital, in case you’re questioned.

    GEORGE
    Ah, I see. (Scans the paper) Good job, Doug. I’ll look this over right away and do what I have to do.

    DOUG
    Fine, Mr. Cleypool. (Turns to leave but remembers one other thing) Oh, by the way -- there’s some sniffing around at City Hall regarding a certain building here in Somerset. Up for purchasing the property?

    GEORGE
    Depends on how much it will cost me. What’s the building?

    DOUG
    I believe it’s The Peoples Building?

    George gets an inquisitive look on his face and nods.

    GEORGE
    Ah, yes. I suppose Jack is interested in that -- strike that, I KNOW he’s interested in that property. (Pauses) Now what to do to put the kibosh on that…

    DOUG
    Will that be all, Mr. Cleypool?

    GEORGE
    Yes, Doug. Good work, and remember we didn’t have this conversation.

    DOUG
    As you wish. (Walks out of office)

    George goes to his office window, where he can see The Peoples Building standing in a state of mild disrepair.

    GEORGE
    I suppose I could find a use for you. But if it means Jack’s dream gets destroyed… (Smiles)

    Sinister music in the background as the scene dissolves.

    DISSOLVE TO -- Giovanni’s

    Mike is at a table looking over that day’s Register when Nick comes in and makes a beeline for the table.

    NICK
    Greetings, friend. (Shakes hand)

    MIKE
    I’m so glad you could make it here. I’ve got a pressing problem that needs your expertise.

    NICK
    Does it have to do with your Restaurant Row story from yesterday?

    MIKE
    I wish it were that simple. (Drinks from his beer glass) How do I impress Alana?

    As Nick wonders why Mike would ask him that question, we hear the Somerset theme begin.

    We see an overhead shot of downtown, with the camera slowly pulling away from the buildings. The Somerset logo pops on the screen and goes into position at the center.

    BILL WOLFF: This… is Somerset. This portion of Somerset is presented today by Biz, the detergent with a full-strength bleach built right in. Why buy both? Buy Biz.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    SCENE TWO

    FADE IN -- Martin Enterprises

    Susannah comes down the hall to Jack’s office, wanting to talk with Jack on a variety of subjects. She sees Joanne at the front desk.

    SUSANNAH
    Hey, Joanne. Is Jack in now?

    JOANNE
    No, Susie. He got called away on a quick business trip over to Albany. Was it important?

    SUSANNAH
    Shoot. No, it wasn’t a big deal. I’ll just go back and leave a voicemail on his phone and (the elevator opens in the background) talk to him another time.

    Patrick steps off the elevator, one hand behind his back.

    JOANNE
    In the meantime, it looks like you have a visitor.

    Susannah turns and smiles when she sees Patrick.

    SUSANNAH
    Hey there! (Hugs Patrick) I didn’t know you were going to stop by.

    PATRICK
    I wasn’t. I happened to be in the neighborhood…

    SUSANNAH
    Then why do you have flowers behind your back?

    Patrick produces a bouquet from behind his back.

    PATRICK
    I’m not good at hiding things, am I?

    SUSANNAH
    They’re much appreciated, thanks. (Kisses Patrick’s cheek) Want some coffee in my office?

    PATRICK
    Have you eaten yet?

    SUSANNAH
    Come to think of it, that does sound good.

    JOANNE
    Duck out of here while you can, Susie. On days Jack isn’t in the office it gets a little light around here.

    SUSANNAH
    In terms of what, people playing hooky? Jack is the most easygoing boss I know.

    JOANNE
    You’re exactly right on both counts. (Phone buzzes) Excuse me… Martin Enterprises, this is Joanne?

    As Joanne types out a message Susannah continues talking with Patrick.

    SUSANNAH
    Well, if you haven’t eaten yet it sounds like lunch is in order then. What say you and I head out and grab a quick bite?

    PATRICK
    Good to go from here. I know a great little sub shop just around the corner…

    SUSANNAH
    Subs?

    PATRICK
    I figured Giovanni spoiled you rotten enough with his cooking.

    SUSANNAH
    Ooo, it’s so good, but you’re right. I could use something else. I’ll get my purse.

    PATRICK
    Let’s head on out, then.

    Susannah heads down the hall while Patrick waits by the elevator as music plays to transition scenes.

    DISSOLVE TO -- Giovanni’s

    At the bar, Giovanni and Rose are discussing Mike’s Register article as Rose is wiping off the bar counter.

    ROSE
    So how likely is it that this place can become a historic landmark?

    GIOVANNI
    Not just this building, my dear… the whole block. You remember when I said this was one of Somerset’s oldest buildings? It dates back to when Somerset’s downtown was a lot smaller than it is right now.

    ROSE
    So we get the benefits.

    GIOVANNI
    Exactly. And it leaves people like George Cleypool twisting in the wind. He absolutely wants this area to build his own… nasty project, whatever you want to call it.

    ROSE
    Like what can you envision, dear? (Smiling)

    GIOVANNI
    Black buildings. Tall. Ominous. Rising, oh, say, 50 or 60 stories above the ground. As if to say I’m better than all of you.

    ROSE
    Somehow I can’t see that happening here. Jack will take care of that with his X Project. It’s much more friendly to downtown.

    GIOVANNI
    Well, he had a meeting over in Albany today with a few people he has connections with in the state government. It was a two for the price of one meeting, I understand.

    ROSE
    Why, what does he have up his sleeve?

    GIOVANNI
    (Points) Nick’s a big part of that. I’m sure he knows it, but I think Jack is positioning Nick for a run at the state legislature.

    The camera focuses in on Nick, drinking his beer and listening intently to Mike as the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    Hungry for a new beginning to All My Children? Apparently a lot of people are. Your favorite Pine Valley residents are as you imagined them in AMC: New Beginnings, now seen weekdays on SONBC.

    We see a still shot of the Somerset logo as music plays in the background.

    BILL WOLFF: And now, after this message, we’ll return for the second half of Somerset. This portion brought to you today by Prell Concentrate, the shampoo for shiny and beautiful hair.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    SCENE THREE

    FADE IN -- Giovanni’s

    Nick is having a beer with Mike at one of the tables, and the subject of Alana is on both of their minds.

    NICK
    So she’s doing pretty well, huh?

    MIKE
    Well as can be expected. She’s still in a bit of pain, but Patrick said it was more from being stiff and rigid than anything else.

    NICK
    Well, she’s got you taking care of her so it can’t be all bad.

    MIKE
    (Drinks) I’d like to think that’s the case. So anyway, you’ve told me about Jack’s trip to Albany… what about Alana?

    NICK
    Well…

    Nick acts as if he’s getting out a 1,000-page book on how to deal with her. He pretends to lift a big book and slam it on the table, much to the laughter of Mike.

    MIKE
    High maintenance, huh?

    NICK
    She can be at first. I think you’re past that stage already. If she’s interested in you, she tends to hold you away at arm’s length until she can determine how strong the feelings are. Obviously in my case it worked well enough to date for two years. In your case…

    MIKE
    I can only hope it’s that long and then some.

    NICK
    Well, when you guys have your first date, just remember a few specifics. (Drinks) If you try to impress Alana, she’ll see right through it. In other words, don’t take her to The Finial for a cosmopolitan or whatever the hot, new female drink is these days.

    MIKE
    I hear vodka tonic is something you’ve grown fond of these days.

    NICK
    (Smiles) And the person that drinks it. Alana is more of an everyday type of girl. I took her to The Finial for a drink when we first went out, and she loved the view but she wanted to go have some beers at a bar.

    MIKE
    Blue-collar broad, huh? (Laughs)

    NICK
    I’ll tell her you said that. (Pretends to get up from the table)

    MIKE
    Nick, get back here…

    NICK
    She loves her profession and she loves being one of the guys. But there are times when she loves to be feminine. And if you hit upon one of those times, treasure every last second of it.

    MIKE
    Hmm, I better write this down. (Jots a few notes on his pad)

    Nick starts to laugh to himself when he remembers the next part of the lecture.

    MIKE
    Uh, Nick… what’s so funny?

    NICK
    I was just remembering the time it happened to me. If Alana asks you to play doctor, two words.

    MIKE
    What?

    NICK
    Do it. You will not be disappointed.

    MIKE
    Hmm. (Jots more notes) Doctor, huh?

    NICK
    There are benefits from having a nurse as your girlfriend. Just don’t tell her I mentioned doctor to you or she’ll know I spilled my guts.

    MIKE
    Good to hear. I think we’re going out sometime next week after she’s had a few days to rest and feel better. She’s told me she wants to shed the scrubs and wear something nice out on our date.

    NICK
    She cleans up well for a nurse, I’m sure you know that.

    Mike checks his watch and sees he’ll be running late in a few minutes.

    MIKE
    Oops, I’ve got a meeting with a potential story source in about 10 minutes, so I better scram and take care of it. (Shakes Nick’s hand) Thanks for the advice, man. I think I can take it from here.

    NICK
    Just let me know how it turns out.

    As Mike leaves, Nick goes over to the bar and sits as Rose is overseeing the action.

    ROSE
    So… was that a big strategy meeting or something?

    NICK
    I wish. I’m just giving Mike tips on how to handle Alana when the two of them finally go out later this week.

    ROSE
    I knew she’d come to her senses. That man is a good one for Alana. Both of them are feisty, they can playfully talk back and forth…

    NICK
    Just like the two of us did?

    ROSE
    (Nods) Don’t think I haven’t forgotten how good a couple you and Alana made. But you’ve got a new woman on the horizon.

    NICK
    Yes. And she comes back tomorrow night and starts work on Wednesday. I may bring her here Wednesday night for a celebratory Italian dinner.

    ROSE
    Be my guest! You know we love your company. (Pauses) Hey, I was talking with Giovanni about Jack’s meeting in Albany today. Anything you can tell us?

    NICK
    He wants to fast track your historic landmark status with the state. That’s all I know. Oh, and yes -- I know he’s meeting with friends of his about me possibly running for office.

    ROSE
    And do you?

    NICK
    What -- want to run? Rose, don’t get me wrong. I love Somerset. I grew up here. But I’m young enough to imagine being a powerful senator, I’m sure.

    ROSE
    Just as long as you don’t lose track of your constituency.

    NICK
    Not a chance in hell.

    As Rose and Nick continue chatting, soft music builds to take us into break.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    SCENE FOUR

    FADE IN -- Cleybank Corporation

    As George is crunching some figures on the paperwork, his line buzzes.

    GEORGE
    (Picks up) Yes, Denise? (Smiling) Ah good, he is here. Bring him in.

    As George finishes the paperwork, the door opens.

    GEORGE
    (Looks up) Welcome to Cleybank’s inside secrets!

    As the camera pans over to the right, we see Mike is at the door. Inquisitive music plays.

    MIKE
    My meeting wasn’t with you. What’s going on?

    GEORGE
    No, but I wanted to get you out here so I could talk with you. You probably were wondering why Cleybank wanted a story in The Register, considering as I’m probably hated by about a third of the people in this town.

    MIKE
    You need to check your Gallup numbers closer, Mr. Cleypool. I’m afraid it’s closer to…

    GEORGE
    I’m being general, OK? (Visibly disturbed) My source called you because he had a scoop related to me.

    MIKE
    Which is?

    GEORGE
    I want to buy The Peoples Building.

    Mike gets that “oh oh” look on his face, as if a major catastrophe could be ahead for someone. The picture fades to black.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    The Somerset theme plays over the closing credits.

    BILL WOLFF: Men’s shirts by Izod. Women’s shoes by Circa Joan and David.

    Be sure to join us each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. Stay tuned for Point Palace, which follows immediately over most of these SONBC stations.

    This program was pre-recorded.


  8. sungrey
    Hey everyone...

    As Nancy Hughes might have said on ATWT before CBS broke in with a news bulletin, "I gave it a great deal of thought..."

    I have decided to end production of Somerset on SON after 44 episodes. However, that is not the end of the serial as you knew it.

    I want to be careful how I say this, but next month Somerset can be seen on "another network", as they call it. What I am going to do is promote the show a bit better, keep up with the episodes, but more importantly I will relaunch the show from Episode 1 at its new location so viewers who have not seen it can get caught up.

    For those who think I may have run out of ideas, hardly. I actually have enough material for two years' worth of story. I'm looking forward to relaunching the show at its new site, and some of you post at it so you may know what it is.

    I can't thank Errol, Toups and company enough for allowing me to have Somerset at SON for its start. I'll still be posting here, so I'm not going anywhere.

    Take care.
  9. sungrey

    HE'S BACK!

    By sungrey,

    Just when you thought he had given up... just when you thought he'd freeze his characters in time, never to return... HE'S BACK.

    Somerset creator and headwriter Steve Ungrey is here to tell the blog readers that reports of his departure were greatly exaggerated. He tells SONBC that Somerset is indeed returning with new episodes, beginning with Episode 40.

    SONBC: Tell us what prompted you to stop writing.

    Sungrey: It was those fans. Those damn fans, I tell ya. (Laughs) No, just kidding. Late winter is a terrible time for me because I'm busy at my other writing job, which prevented me from devoting time to Somerset. I'd rather write a well-received episode than a half-hearted one, so I elected to stop for a bit and breathe before resuming production. I'm into a much less busy time of year, so I can revisit the adventures of Somerset.

    SONBC: What did you learn from your time away?

    Sungrey: That I needed to create more story. More characters. More stuff so that I'm not relying on the same characters day after day. I think I've got it down here so that I can create some new characters without taking attention away from Giovanni, Rose, Jack, Donna, Nick and company. I'm going to slightly expand the cast and send some characters in different directions without taking them away from their original intentions.

    SONBC: So does this mean we'll see possessed characters and witches? Poisoned pancakes? Text-message killers that make no sense?

    Sungrey: Puh-leeeeeeze. I'm not going down that road. My grandmother and aunt were huge fans of Another World and my goal is to write a show that my grandmother and aunt would be proud to watch and still bring in the younger eyes. I believe in a strong focus on characters of all ages and that's not going to change.

    SONBC: Any news about these new characters?

    Sungrey: Only that you'll see them spread out over the next several weeks. A couple characters you will recognize. The others are going to be new, but you'll have fun discovering their quirks.

    SONBC: What about the fan feedback?

    Sungrey: I haven't gotten much feedback from the show, which I expected. Look, it's not like I'm writing a Days of our Lives blog. Not to take anything away from those blogs because they're all good, but people are familiar with the show because it's still on. People like Cody1990 and myself are writing about a show that was canceled in 1976. This is a new show for me, featuring the same town but with all new characters. Nothing is going to change.

    SONBC: Any advice for the fans?

    Sungrey: Stay tuned, sit back and enjoy. I hope you enjoy these new episodes as much as I did writing them.
  10. sungrey
    SOMERSET EPISODE 40
    Written by: Steve Ungrey
    Original airdate: 09/07/07

    SCENE ONE

    FADE IN -- Washington D.C. skyline

    We see the footage of Washington D.C. with a graphic identifying the city. The scene then transitions over to Eleanor’s condominium, where Donna is sitting and watching something on the TV.

    We see Donna’s eyes misting over and she’s wiping away tears as Eleanor comes into the room.

    ELEANOR
    Oh, for heaven’s sake, Donna… you’re not watching Field of Dreams again, are you?

    DONNA
    (Crying slightly) I wish I were watching that. I don’t cry as much watching Kevin Costner as I do this.

    Eleanor turns to the TV screen and her mouth drops. Now her eyes are getting misty.

    ELEANOR
    Oh, you were such an angel back then.

    DONNA
    I was, wasn’t I?

    Donna is watching a home video recording of her “Sweet 16” party thrown by the family. What’s making Donna so misty-eyed is seeing herself dancing with her father.

    DONNA
    I can never hear “Special Lady” and not think of Dad.

    ELEANOR
    That song was popular when we conceived you. It was playing on the radio when he took me to the hospital. If your father could have gotten Ray, Goodman and Brown to sing that song live at your party, he’d have done it.

    DONNA
    (Wipes away tears) God, I miss Dad. I miss him so much.

    Donna and Eleanor embrace, as Donna finally unleashes the waterworks.

    ELEANOR
    He’d have been so happy for you, honey. His dream before he died was to finally see you pass the bar and become a lawyer.

    DONNA
    If only I knew how long law school would take. You can’t quite finish it like high school.

    ELEANOR
    Hey, you know something? We had a great time together. All of us. I tell myself every day that at least we knew the end was coming. It wasn’t like I got a call saying Paul had a heart attack at the office and died or something like that.

    DONNA
    Or got in a car crash on the Beltway. (Pauses) Lung cancer, however. And he didn’t even smoke.

    ELEANOR
    You don’t have to smoke to get it. One of my friends died from it and she never touched tobacco her whole life.

    DONNA
    (Turns back toward TV) I will always remember that dance. Always.

    We hear a few snippets of “Special Lady” as the scene dissolves.

    DISSOLVE TO -- Somerset Hospital

    Alana is sitting up in bed reading that day’s edition of The Register when Mike peeks his head around the corner.

    MIKE
    (Knocking on Alana’s room door) Ah, I see you’re a devoted follower of my work?

    ALANA
    I was just reading your story on the efforts to get Restaurant Row proclaimed a historical landmark. Good one, Wagner.

    MIKE
    I’ve got an even better one for you.

    ALANA
    I can’t wait to see this…

    Mike appears in the doorway bearing a wheelchair.

    MIKE
    You’re going home today, my dear.

    Alana’s eyes instantly widen and she smiles as we hear the Somerset theme begin.

    We see an overhead shot of downtown, with the camera slowly pulling away from the buildings. The Somerset logo pops on the screen and goes into position at the center.

    BILL WOLFF: This… is Somerset. This portion of Somerset is presented today by mild Ivory liquid, the dishwashing liquid that helps hands stay young-looking.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK
    SCENE TWO

    FADE IN -- Somerset Hospital

    Alana can barely contain her glee when she sees the wheelchair.

    ALANA
    Finally! I get to get out of here!

    MIKE
    Pending what Patrick says. He’s upstairs analyzing your last tests and he wants to make sure you’re 100 percent before he lets you go.

    ALANA
    I feel much better.

    As she steps out of bed she grimaces.

    ALANA
    Except for the pain, that is.

    MIKE
    What’s going on? Are you all right?

    ALANA
    Patrick said because my muscles became rigid during the meningitis, it’s going to take a bit of time for me to regain full use of my head. I’ll be able to twist my neck back and forth eventually, but right now I have to take it easy.

    Patrick enters the room with his charts.

    PATRICK
    And you are so right where that is concerned, Alana. The test results are back, and you have a clean bill of health.

    MIKE
    Meaning she can go, right?

    PATRICK
    Yes, indeed. She’s a free woman.

    Alana smiles and hugs Mike and Patrick, having successfully shaken off a bout of meningitis and appreciating her newfound good health. The scene dissolves.

    DISSOLVE TO -- Petterino kitchen

    Annabella is making a pot of coffee when Victoria comes downstairs. She looks both ways before entering the kitchen.

    ANNABELLA
    (Sits down with a coffee cup) Are you afraid of being struck by a car in your own house, Tori? (Laughs)

    VICTORIA
    No, sis. (Laughing) I was just wondering where Mom and Dad went.

    ANNABELLA
    They’re both at the restaurant this morning. Giovanni and Bernard met to go over some things about the article Mike Wagner wrote.

    VICTORIA
    Oh, that! The historic landmark designation?

    ANNABELLA
    Yes, that. Jack’s trying to get historic status on the buildings so that no other shenanigans take place in the war between the developers.

    VICTORIA
    And we know Jack will get the job done.

    ANNABELLA
    So anyway, you’re safe… enough tiptoeing around the subject. How was last night?

    VICTORIA
    Well… he’s a damn good kisser.

    ANNABELLA
    (Squeals like a teenager) Oooo, Tori… you got a chance to make out with him?

    VICTORIA
    Well, I wouldn’t say we were like two horny teenagers or anything. We were outside on the observation deck at The Finial and he made a remark about wanting a taste of brandy without drinking out of a glass.

    ANNABELLA
    Smooth. He’s pretty good.

    VICTORIA
    That’s what I told him. I couldn’t stop thinking about that kiss when I got in last night. I called him this morning and he said he had a great time, and I did too.

    ANNABELLA
    So I take it there will be more?

    VICTORIA
    He’s giving me a bit of space so I can study for the nursing exam, but yes… the night of the exam he’s going to take me out for a couple drinks to release the tension.

    ANNABELLA
    (High fives Victoria) Way to go, sis. You did an excellent job.

    VICTORIA
    I just hope you all say that after the exam’s done.

    Soft music plays under the scene as Victoria drinks coffee, and the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    The Carringtons and the Colbys are back and better than ever. Be sure to tune in to Dynasty The Sequel, seen weekdays on SONBC. Consult your local listings.

    The Somerset logo is seen on screen…

    BILL WOLFF: And now, after these messages, we’ll continue with the second half of Somerset. Part two of today’s program is presented by the new Swiffer sweeper, the easy way to clean up messes around your house.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    SCENE THREE

    FADE IN -- Eleanor’s condominium

    Donna is putting the cassette back in its container and shutting off the TV when her cell phone rings. She sees Nick’s number on the phone so she presses talk.

    DONNA
    Hey, handsome. Miss me?

    Nick is at the office typing on his computer screen.

    NICK
    Like you don’t believe. When do you come back to Somerset?

    DONNA
    Early next week. I’ve already told Jack I’m going to start working on Tuesday. I may need to crash somewhere for a few days until the roommate situation is resolved.

    NICK
    Jack can probably take care of that. In the meantime… I may have a roommate for you.

    DONNA
    Nicholas Barclay! You did my dirty work?

    NICK
    (Gets a serious look) You’re not mad, are you?

    DONNA
    Of course not! If it’s one less thing for me to do then more power to you for helping me.

    NICK
    Good. I’ll explain everything when you return, except to say I think you’ll like my recommendation.

    DONNA
    All right, then.

    NICK
    Hey, I’m knee deep in work here, but I just wanted to call and say how much I missed talking to you. And spending time together…

    DONNA
    Both of which will take care of themselves in due time. (Pause) OK, sexy. I’ll see you when I get back. Take care.

    As she presses stop on her phone Eleanor comes back into the room.

    ELEANOR
    Your main squeeze?

    DONNA
    He’s not my main squeeze, Mom. We’re still in the opening stages.

    ELEANOR
    Yet you enjoy spending time with him, right?

    DONNA
    Well, of course I do. Nick knows the score, Mom. He and I had a great first date, if you want to call it that. But he knows I want to take things very slow.

    ELEANOR
    Just as long as you end up happy in the end, that’s all.

    DONNA
    I will. (Checks time) Hey, I promised I’d meet my friend Cheri for a congratulatory drink, so I’ll probably head back to my place and do some more packing.

    ELEANOR
    Call me tonight when you get back?

    DONNA
    Oh, I won’t be out that late. I’ve got a lot of things to take care of and miles to go before I’m all set.

    ELEANOR
    If you need help, let me know.

    DONNA
    I will. (Kisses Eleanor on the cheek) Love ya.

    ELEANOR
    You too, dear.

    As Donna leaves the condominium, Eleanor glances at the cassette sitting in its container and a tear rolls down her cheek.

    ELEANOR
    Sometimes I wish you still were a sweet 16.

    Soft music plays to transition between scenes as we switch.

    DISSOLVE TO -- Alana’s apartment

    Mike opens the door and helps Alana inside as she sits down and gingerly looks around.

    ALANA
    Not much has changed in here, I see.

    MIKE
    It’s probably just like you left it when you collapsed last week.

    ALANA
    Meaning I’ll have to do some housecleaning -- eventually.

    MIKE
    Caught yourself, huh? Hey, I’ll give you a hand.

    ALANA
    Now you don’t have to take time out of your schedule to help me. It’ll get done. I just need to slow down and not do a whole lot these next few days.

    MIKE
    And I’ll be glad to help you do that.

    ALANA
    (Looks at him and smiles) I’ll just bet you will.

    Mike smiles as Alana relaxes on the couch -- the music plays into commercial.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    SCENE FOUR

    FADE IN -- Alana’s apartment

    Alana has her hands around a cup of coffee as Mike sits down and checks his messages.

    ALANA
    You never slow down, do you?

    MIKE
    Trust me. When we’re finally ready to have that date you promised -- that date is still on, right?

    ALANA
    Oh heck yes. I’m not letting you get out of that now. (Smiles)

    MIKE
    This phone is being turned off and so is my pager. You are going to get my undivided attention.

    ALANA
    Something tells me I’m going to like that. (Pauses) Thanks for being here when I wanted some company.

    MIKE
    Hey, I almost lost you, remember? I didn’t know how seriously ill you were until…

    ALANA
    Well, it turned out it was much better than I thought. If I’d have had the bacterial kind of meningitis I’d have been in therapy for weeks.

    Mike moves over to the couch and sits down.

    MIKE
    Well, you’re here, you’re healthy and you still have that good sense of humor. And that’s what I love.

    Alana leans on Mike’s shoulder and closes her eyes, content. She appears to realize that she may have found true love again after Nick’s breakup. Soft music plays as the scene transitions.

    DISSOLVE TO -- Eleanor’s condominium

    Eleanor is doing some straightening up in her bedroom and she places the cassette back where Donna ostensibly obtained it. When she looks in her chest of drawers, Eleanor happens upon a picture partly uncovered.

    ELEANOR
    Well, well… hello there, gorgeous.

    The picture is of a young woman, in her twenties. It’s an old outdoor photo taken by a river.

    ELEANOR
    You looked good back then… just like you do now.

    She grabs the picture -- and for the first time, we see that part of the photograph has been torn away. Eleanor appears to have her hand around someone’s back, but we cannot see who it is.

    ELEANOR
    I did look great back then, didn’t I?

    Eleanor looks at the picture, as inquisitive music plays in the background. The scene immediately cuts to black.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    The Somerset credits roll over a picture of the city.

    BILL WOLFF: Men’s jackets by Abercrombie Sentinel. Jewelry courtesy of Irwin Pearl.

    We invite you to join us each weekday afternoon for the continuing story of Somerset. Be sure to stay tuned for Salem Lives, coming up next on most of these NBC stations. And don’t forget to watch Point Palace when it follows Somerset beginning Monday.

    This program was pre-recorded.



  11. sungrey
    The daytime drama Somerset has reached into Guiding Light's glory days of the 1970s to cast the latest role, which began on Somerset's 35th episode.

    ELVERA ROUSSEL, best known to daytime audiences as Hope Bauer from 1979-83, returns nearly 25 years later to soaps as she takes on the role of Eleanor Morgan, Donna's mother and the one who was making mystery calls to Donna before and during her return to Washington.

    "As it turns out, there was nothing suspicious about Donna's calls," said Steve Ungrey, Somerset's creator and head writer. "It was merely her mother checking up on Donna to see how the interview went. She's dying to hear more about Donna's new man and remind her that she's still sorting out some things about her love life.

    The role is contract. Welcome Roussel back to daytime, as she makes her full-time debut in the 37th episode of Somerset, which will premiere later today.
  12. sungrey
    The serial opens with a sweeping camera view as we focus in on a car driving along a highway, with a woman in her late 30s at the wheel. The car drives along, and we see an exterior shot of the car passing a nice display with a sign that says "Welcome to Somerset".

    The car pulls over at a scenic overlook, and the woman gets out to view the area. Another car is heard pulling up behind the stopped vehicle, and we hear a woman's voice.

    The voice is that of Lahoma Lucas, who still has that Southern spitfire charm.

    LAHOMA: Susannah, honey, why did you pull over?

    SUSANNAH: Is this where you and dad spent a few nights admiring the view?

    The next voice is that of Sam Lucas, Susannah's father.

    SAM: Well, when we first moved here this was the place to go if you wanted to spend some (looks down at the view)... Holy mackerel!

    SUSANNAH: Changed a lot since you were here?

    SAM: I'll say. Lahoma, honey, take a look.

    LAHOMA: (Approaches the overlook) What the... wow, people weren't kidding when they said this town changed.

    For the first time, we see the Somerset skyline, complete with several skyscrapers and bridges where cars are busy crossing. Suffice to say Somerset looks radically different than it did in 1976.

    SAM: Still want to live here, honey?

    SUSANNAH: Dad... I said I wanted to make a fresh start. And what better place to do it than the town where you and mom moved a long time ago.

    LAHOMA: The place where a lot of things happened... some good... some bad...

    SAM: A lot of treachery... some dealings with the mob... Susie honey, it's not too late to change your mind.

    SUSANNAH: (Smiles) Nope. I've made up my mind. This is my home.

    SAM: Always headstrong, just like your mother. Then what do you say we descend the hill and begin your new journey.

    SUSANNAH: I'm game if you are.

    As the Lucases return to their respective cars and speed off, we hear the scene's closing music.

    (The screen fades to white, and the city of Somerset is drawn line by line on the screen until finished with the accompanying dramatic music. Once the outline is complete, the picture turns to a daytime view of the skyline with the Somerset logo)

    This... is Somerset. Brought to you today by fresher than ever Lemon Fresh Joy. For a beautiful shine that's a nice reflection on you and your dishes.

    SCENE TWO
    A high-rise building in downtown Somerset is shown, and we fade in on a young woman sitting at a desk. The woman, whose name is Joanne, is on the phone.

    JOANNE: Yes, I've got Mr. Martin's schedule right here. He can see you Thursday at either 2:15 or 3:30. I know he wants to get this done as soon as possible, Mr. Wagner... fine, I'll have Jack get in touch with you as quickly as I can. Thanks for calling, have a good day.

    As Joanne is hanging up the phone, Sam, Lahoma and Susannah come in the office.

    JOANNE: Can I help you?

    SAM: Yes. Wondering if an old friend is in.

    JOANNE: You're referring to Jack? Is he expecting you? Do you have an appointment?

    SAM: If you can tell him his mentor stopped by to see him, that'd be great.

    JOANNE: (Looking momentarily puzzled) All right. Hold on one second. (Disappears behind the door)

    SUSANNAH: Dad... what's this all about?

    SAM: You'll see.

    LAHOMA: All this mystery? I don't remember you mentoring anyone when you were at Delaney Brands.

    SAM: You might recall this face.

    (A voice can be heard behind the door)

    JACK: (Emerges with Joanne) Someone said something about a mentor? (Sees Sam) Oh my... Sam Lucas! (Comes over and hugs Sam)

    SAM: Jack Martin, how the heck are you?

    JACK: Not bad at all. This must be Lahoma... and... Susannah? This can't be Susannah.

    SUSANNAH: When you last saw me I must have been all of what, three or four?

    SAM: Jack Martin, this is Susannah Lucas, my now-grown daughter and a practicing attorney.

    JACK: Followed in her dad's footsteps, I see... and hopefully just as smart as Sam is. Lahoma, it has been too long.

    LAHOMA: Same here, Jack. I vaguely recall you spending some time with Sam in the office.

    JACK: Just before you and Susannah were shepherded out of Somerset for your safety, most likely. Sam taught me everything I know. How to amass a fortune... how to do the smart thing with your parents' estate... how not to buy a beloved Somerset treasure, turn around and sell it for a profit but gut the company in the process...

    SAM: We all make mistakes, Jack. You can argue Delaney Brands wasn't the same once Leo Kurtz got done running it. Heck, Robert bought back the company and even his heart wasn't in it.

    LAHOMA: Now there's an unwelcome blast from the past. (Realizes what she said) Oh goodness, I meant Leo, not dear Robert... Anyways, Mr. Martin...

    JACK: Call me Jack, please. I don't believe in too many formalities.

    LAHOMA: Jack, what's up with Delaney Brands? Is the cannery still in operation?

    JACK: No, unfortunately... the conglomerate that owned Delaney moved a lot of business away from Somerset. The cannery turned into condos a few years ago when I and a few other associates rescued the land and built homes on it. You might see it if you're staying here a while... it's called Grant's Preserve.

    SUSANNAH: Grant's Pre... wow, did I buy a smart piece of land.

    LAHOMA: Honey, that's where your condo is?

    SUSANNAH: Yes. I saw the website online and just fell in love with it.

    JACK: We had to do something to honor Ben Grant. He was such an integral part of the community. It was either that or name a street after him here. I still recall Ellen crying when I called to tell her the good news. By the way, Sam, I was very sorry to hear about Ada.

    SAM: Thank you, Jack. Your card is still right by her picture. She got to spend some quality time with Nancy in Arizona before she died, but towards the end you could tell there wasn't much time.

    JACK: She was outspoken, that's for sure. A true gem.

    LAHOMA: Not a day goes by where we don't think of her. I can still recall her giving Sam a piece of her mind about letting me go without a fight... heck, she had an opinion on just about everything.

    JACK: Dearly missed. (Changes the subject) How long are you two here?

    LAHOMA: We're here until the end of the week. Sam's got a trial back in Oklahoma City next week so we have to get back.

    JACK: (Looks amazed) Still practicing law? After all these years?

    SAM: I'm having too much fun. Much like you are here with your projects.

    JACK: I'll have to fill you in on the big one I'm working on. If you thought Somerset had changed a lot already...

    LAHOMA: Oh yeah. I hardly recognized the city when we came in here, except for the bridge over the river. That hasn't changed one bit.

    JACK: We'll all have to get together for dinner before you go. You'll flip when you see what I've got planned. Now I just have to convince the city that it can take more upheaval.

    (As Jack smiles, we see Sam, Lahoma and Susannah look at each other as if they're saying "more development?")

    We'll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE THREE
    (Fade in on a pleasant subdivision with condos, and two cars driving down a street to a building with an exterior lot. Susannah gets out of her vehicle, and Sam and Lahoma emerge from theirs)

    SUSANNAH: Grant's Preserve. Looks just as nice as it did in the picture.

    SAM: Unbelievable. To think this is where the factory once stood. If I talk to Robert in the future, I'm going to have to tell him what this place looks like now.

    LAHOMA: Careful. He's getting up there in years. Don't want to drive him to an early grave.

    SUSANNAH: Early... with Robert?

    SAM: (Laughs) Ready to see your new home?

    SUSANNAH: Ready as I'll ever be. Let's go.

    (As Sam, Lahoma and Susannah enter the condo, the scene cuts back to Jack's office, which has a great view of Somerset's skyline)

    JACK: (Picks up phone) Joanne, if you want to knock off for the day and get some errands done, I don't think the rest of the day is going to be a problem.

    JOANNE: All right, Jack. Have a good night. Don't work too hard.

    JACK: (Shakes his head) Not a problem. Take care.

    (He puts down the phone and arises from his desk. Turning around and staring out the window, he focuses in on one area of Somerset's downtown that appears to have fallen into disrepair. Jack looks lost in thought.)

    JACK: For you, my dear. (Raises whiskey glass). I'm doing this for you.

    (The scene fades out... then we hear the Somerset theme as the credits roll.)

    Join us each weekday at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. And on many of these same computers, be sure to watch Point Palace. Weekdays on SONBC. This program was pre-recorded.
  13. sungrey

    EPISODE 38 -- POSTED 2/24

    By sungrey,

    SOMERSET EPISODE 38
    Original airdate: 09/05/07
    Written by: Steve Ungrey

    SCENE ONE

    FADE IN – Petterino kitchen

    It is morning in Somerset as Rose is in the kitchen making breakfast. She hums to herself at the stove as Victoria comes downstairs with a couple of books in her hand.

    ROSE: (Looks over) How is the studying going, honey?

    Victoria looks up and grimaces, suggesting things aren’t going very well.

    VICTORIA: This is the hardest exam of all of them I have to take. Alana’s told me not to let the stress or the pressure get to me, but obviously if I ace this test I’m on the road to a full-fledged nurse’s position.

    Rose continues mixing egg yolks as Victoria talks.

    ROSE: I thought you were already there. You can’t let one test distinguish you from being a full nurse and not being one.

    VICTORIA: That’s just it, Mom. I want to distinguish myself. Alana has said some of the higher-ups on the hospital board are calling me one of the best nurses to go through the program since…

    ROSE: Who? Florence Nightingale?

    VICTORIA: I wish. No… since Alana. She was the last one to really wow the board to the point where they viewed her as God down at Somerset Hospital.

    ROSE: One step at a time, dear. One at a time.

    Rose sits down, still mixing yolks, before she puts the bowl down and picks up one of Victoria’s books.

    ROSE: Ay yi yi – incredibile. Pesante.

    VICTORIA: Mom, I know it’s difficult. You don’t need to tell me twice.

    ROSE: Well, you’ll do just fine.

    Victoria shuts the book and looks at her mom.

    VICTORIA: I do have a question. Are we back on good terms?

    ROSE: I never thought we weren’t on good terms, why did you?

    VICTORIA: Because of the way you lashed out at me when I said I was seeing Zachary Cleypool.

    ROSE: Oh. That.

    The music plays between scenes as Victoria has an inquisitive look on her face, wondering what her mother is thinking.

    CUT TO – An area north of Somerset

    Zachary is outside a trailer, ostensibly on a construction site. He sees a familiar face approaching him, as Mike has stopped by.

    ZACHARY: (Extends hand) Welcome to the future of retail in Somerset.

    MIKE: I see. (Shakes Zachary’s hand and cranes his neck to look over the site) What’s all going in here?

    ZACHARY: Shopping center, sites for several restaurants… it’s the new Cleybank Corporation way of doing business.

    MIKE: So has your dad given up on downtown?

    ZACHARY: Oh, hell no. He’s just having me work on this site to make sure it’s all right. Dad’s got a lot of irons in the fire. You saw the homes being built out here.

    MIKE: But will those homes sell?

    ZACHARY: I would think the credit crunch wouldn’t affect this part of Somerset. There are some higher-end properties and some very affordable ones as well. Are you here to see someone about this project?

    MIKE: Yes, actually. Got a front-page story going in the Register tomorrow.

    ZACHARY: I’ll hook you up in a second… but first, how’s Alana?

    MIKE: I’m glad you asked.

    As Mike starts talking, the Somerset theme begins and the city skyline is shown.

    We see an overhead shot of downtown, with the camera slowly pulling away from the buildings. The Somerset logo pops on the screen and goes into position at the center.

    BILL WOLFF: This… is Somerset. This portion of Somerset is brought to you today by Zest, the only deodorant bar that rinses you cleaner than soap. Zest is available in different colors and scents.

    SCENE TWO

    FADE IN – Petterino kitchen

    We directly pick up from the previous scene where Victoria is quizzical about her mother’s intentions.

    VICTORIA: I see you haven’t changed your position.

    ROSE: Actually I have. I was just hoping you’d forgive my boorish behavior of a couple days ago.

    VICTORIA: Yet I sense you still don’t approve.

    ROSE: Face it. He wouldn’t have been my first choice for you.

    VICTORIA: I didn’t know Italians arranged marriages, Mother.

    Rose gets back up with her bowl and puts it on the counter.

    ROSE: I was going to say what happened with Alana changed my way of thinking on a lot of things. Alana falling ill reminded me of how short life can be at times.

    VICTORIA: So it took an illness to make you realize it?

    ROSE: Honey, all I know is this. (She sits back down) I saw the look Annabella was giving me and I could tell I really struck a nerve. I thought Bella was going to have a fit there for a minute.

    VICTORIA: She was upset, Mom. And so was I.

    ROSE: Honey, I…

    Victoria rises and turns away, looking toward the kitchen window.

    VICTORIA: Do you realize all these years you’ve begged me to lead a normal life? You and Dad… pointed out eligible guys for me at restaurants… all but told people I was single and told me to get with the program before I became an old maid…

    ROSE: Since when did we ever tell anyone you were an old maid?

    VICTORIA: You never did, but you hinted it.

    ROSE: Honey! (Grabs Victoria and firmly plants hands on her shoulders) You stop talking about yourself like you’re going on 50, looking back at your life and wondering what you could have done differently.

    VICTORIA: I’m not there yet, Mom.

    ROSE: No, but… you’re in your early twenties. You’re gorgeous. You have an entire career ahead of you. You have your whole life ahead.

    VICTORIA: And you don’t?

    ROSE: Oh, Tori… you have no idea what’s ahead for me and your dad.

    She gets back up and finishes the eggs as she speaks.

    ROSE: Yes, I was in college when I met Giovanni. He was a smooth talker, but above all he was a principled family man. He may have been an only child, but he knew what he wanted when he was in school.

    Rose turns toward the table.

    ROSE: And I knew I wanted Giovanni to be a part of my life. I fell for him the minute he first touched my hand that day we first met.

    VICTORIA: What’s been the secret to your success?

    ROSE: To roll with the punches. Honey, we may have been married over 30 years, but that doesn’t mean life hasn’t been an adventure. I wouldn’t trade one second of it.

    VICTORIA: So you’re saying live my life like it’s an adventure?

    ROSE: Yes. (Pauses) If trying out a date or two with Zachary is what you want to do then I can’t stop you. If you fall, you know I’ll be here to catch you.

    VICTORIA: And Dad?

    ROSE: He won’t need a net. I have a feeling he’ll be holding on to you every step of the way.

    Victoria wipes a tear from her eye as she embraces her mother over really soft music. The picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    (COMMERCIAL BREAK)

    BILL WOLFF: We’ll continue with the second part of Somerset following station identification. This portion of today’s program has been presented by the moist desserts of Duncan Hines.

    ANNOUNCER: A Beautiful Family joins the SONBC daytime lineup. Check out the newest daytime drama here, weekdays.

    Music plays over a still picture of the Somerset logo.

    SCENE THREE

    FADE IN – The construction site

    Zachary is working at the table inside as the door opens. George steps in and catches his attention.

    ZACHARY: (Looks up) Surprised to see you out here!

    GEORGE: Can’t a dad come visit his son out at a construction site? Or check out the site period?

    ZACHARY: ‘Course, dad. You’re always welcome out here.

    GEORGE: Good. (Looks outside) The site’s taking shape fabulously.

    ZACHARY: It is, isn’t it? Mike Wagner was out here interviewing someone earlier…

    GEORGE: Ah, good. I see Vickery must have gotten my hint that there were big doings going on out here.

    ZACHARY: When did you run into Norman, Dad? On the golf course?

    GEORGE: He and I played a round of 18 with two other people last week. Helps to have connections here in Somerset, you know.

    ZACHARY: (Nods in sarcasm) Oh, of course. You’re not planning on upstaging Jack’s big X Project, are you?

    GEORGE: Why, son… whatever gave you that idea?

    Zachary looks at his dad a bit warily as the music bridges scenes…

    CUT TO – The Petterino kitchen

    Victoria has left for her hospital shift, and Rose is in the kitchen scanning that day’s Register as Annabella enters the room.

    ANNABELLA: Morning, Mom.

    ROSE: My, you were a late sleeper this morning. Hot plans last night?

    ANNABELLA: (Slowly turns her head toward Rose as she’s pouring coffee) Well, mother… (smiles) if you must know, Scott and I went out for drinks and pool last night.

    ROSE: He’s a nice man, Bella.

    ANNABELLA: Enough with the matchmaking, okay? I got an e-mail from my Italy rendezvous earlier today.

    ROSE: (Surprised) I thought he’d be one and out for you, considering how you never talk.

    ANNABELLA: Mother, his job situation means he’s busy a lot. And don’t worry… like you said once, if I ever got screwed over by him I’d have guys falling at my feet around the clock.

    ROSE: (Laughing) I did say that, didn’t I?

    ANNABELLA: Yes, you did. (Changes subject as she drinks coffee) Did I tell you I might have a roommate?

    ROSE: No! That popped up awfully quick…

    ANNABELLA: Nick was talking about his new friend Donna needing a roommate when she moved to Somerset, and I thought why not?

    ROSE: What if you two don’t get along?

    ANNABELLA: I don’t think that’s going to happen. But to be on the safe side Nick’s introducing us when she comes back to Somerset. I’m going to be gone back to Italy for a week or so but I was hoping to get this wrapped up.

    ROSE: Well, then… more power to you.

    Annabella smiles as she finishes her coffee – the picture fades to black over music.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE FOUR

    FADE IN – Somerset Hospital

    Taylor is at the nurses station as Victoria comes down the hallway.

    TAYLOR: (Sees Tori, puts down phone) Hey there. How’s our patient nurse – or is that nurse patient?

    VICTORIA: (Laughs) Alana’s doing fine. Patrick is very pleased about her progress, enough so she might be out of here in a couple days. Her fever’s gone way down and she looks much better.

    TAYLOR: I heard she was grilling you in her room.

    VICTORIA: She’s pumping me up for the nurses exam… I hope everything works out.

    TAYLOR: I do too. You could use an opportunity to unwind.

    VICTORIA: I know. (Cell phone buzzes) Oop, I better take this. I’ll be back.

    Victoria ducks into the nurses lounge, sees the ID on the phone and opens up.

    VICTORIA: Hi there.

    On the other end is Zachary, busy poring over some sketches.

    ZACHARY: Thought I’d call to see how you were doing. How’s the studies going?

    VICTORIA: I’ll live.

    ZACHARY: Think you can arrange a break to go out to dinner tonight?

    VICTORIA: Ooo, sounds so tempting.

    ZACHARY: Come on. Your exam’s not tomorrow.

    VICTORIA: So true, so true. All right… I’m here until 6, so I’ll want to head home and change quickly. Where do you suggest?

    ZACHARY: I’d say Giovanni’s, but that might be pushing it.

    VICTORIA: You think? (Laughs) How about The Finial?

    ZACHARY: Wow. You must want some quiet time.

    VICTORIA: Why? That place isn’t that expensive. Despite it being on top of a high rise, that is.

    ZACHARY: Finial it is, then… I can check and see if they have an open table.

    VICTORIA: Figure on 8 for sure.

    ZACHARY: Sounds good. Wanna meet there?

    VICTORIA: Also good too. See you tonight?

    ZACHARY: Tonight it is then.

    VICTORIA: Take care… bye.

    Victoria hangs up, shuts the cell phone and briefly presses it to her, like a teenager in love would do. With a skip in her step, she heads back out to the fourth floor.

    CUT TO – Petterino kitchen

    ANNABELLA: I hear you and Tori came to an understanding.

    ROSE: It wasn’t easy, but I did it. I could see your eyes forming daggers at me.

    ANNABELLA: That wasn’t it, Mom. I just wanted you to know how I felt. I’ve met Zachary a couple times and he’s nothing like George. That’s a good thing.

    ROSE: I suppose you’re right. Now try telling that to Giovanni.

    ANNABELLA: (Nods) I know. I know.

    As Annabella realizes Giovanni might not approve of Tori’s blooming relationship with Zachary, the music plays and the program fades to black for the day.

    COMMERCIAL BREAK

    The Somerset theme plays as the credits roll over a still picture of downtown Somerset.

    BILL WOLFF: Hospital wear by Lydia’s. Men’s shirts by Perry Ellis.

    Join us each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. And be sure to stay tuned for Salem Lives, coming up next over most of these same stations.

    This program was pre-recorded.




  14. sungrey

    EPISODE 31 (AIRED 8/27)

    By sungrey,

    SOMERSET EPISODE 31
    Original airdate: 08/27/07
    Written by: Steve Ungrey

    SCENE ONE
    In a direct pickup from Friday’s Episode 30, we are back at the hospital as Mike hears from Patrick that Alana is upstairs in neurology having tests done. Taylor is getting misty-eyed as Patrick tells Mike the news.

    MIKE: Patrick, did she have a stroke? (Pause) Is she going to… die?

    PATRICK: Not if I can damn well help it. (Turns and sees Taylor) Relax, both of you. Alana is in great hands.

    MIKE: You didn’t answer my question.

    PATRICK: What ques – oh, a stroke. No, this isn’t anything stroke-related. She doesn’t have a brain tumor, and she’s not suffering from anything neurological.

    MIKE: (Losing patience, he raises his voice) Then why the hell is she upstairs?

    PATRICK: Because I’m having her checked out for meningitis.

    Taylor audibly gasps behind Patrick.

    TAYLOR: Meningitis? She didn’t appear that sick earlier this morning!

    PATRICK: You know from your nursing studies. Meningitis can be a sudden-onset sickness. There is some good news here. I’m pretty sure Alana has the viral form of meningitis and not the bacterial form, which means her symptoms will be less severe and the chances for a full recovery are close to 100 percent.

    MIKE: You act as if there could be complications.

    PATRICK: There could be. We have got to get her fever down. She was above 105 up in neurology. If the fever stays at that level for a prolonged period, it could cause neurological complications, even brain damage.

    TAYLOR: (Shaking) You can’t let that happen, Patrick.

    PATRICK: (Looks in Taylor’s face) Look at me, Taylor. (Shakes her shoulders) Look at me! I’m bound and determined to save her from that. She’s not going to have anything happen like that on my watch. (Turns back to Mike) I just have to prepare you for a worst-case scenario. The odds are she’ll make the full recovery. Once Dr. Kellman confirms my diagnosis, we start the antibiotic treatment.

    Patrick looks at Mike and Taylor, who are slowly grasping how sick Alana might be but also hopeful that she got back to the hospital in time. The music plays as the scene changes.

    CUT TO: The front office at Martin Enterprises

    The other direct pickup is at Jack’s office, where we see Jack coming out to greet his first interview of the day – Donna Morgan, Nick’s mystery woman from the bar in Washington.

    JACK: Donna Morgan! Welcome to Somerset!

    DONNA: (Extends hand) Thanks, Mr. Martin. It’s a pleasure to be here.

    JACK: Did you find the office with no problem?

    DONNA: I did a dry run when I arrived in Somerset last night. I’m just down the street at the Somerset Inn, as it turns out.

    JACK: A great place to stay. Would you like coffee before we go inside?

    DONNA: Please.

    JACK: All right. Joanne, can we get a pot of coffee in my office?

    JOANNE: Right away, Jack. (Gets up and heads for the kitchen area)

    JACK: Right this way, Donna.

    The two make their way into Jack’s office as we hear the opening part of the Somerset theme.

    We see an overhead shot of downtown, with the camera slowly pulling away from the buildings. The Somerset logo pops on the screen and goes into position at the center.

    This… is Somerset. Part 1 of Somerset is brought to you today by Gleem, the toothpaste for adults. Fights cavities and freshens adult bad breath… and by Sure, the only deodorant that leaves you clean and dry all day. We’re Sure.

    SCENE TWO
    In Jack’s office at Martin Enterprises, Jack motions Donna to have a seat. She sets her briefcase on the floor by the chair.

    JACK: I should add that I don’t make my personal assistant get me coffee all the time like that.

    DONNA: (Holds up a hand) I know. She and I were talking out there before you came out and it sounds like she absolutely loves working for you.

    JACK: Well, let me look at your resume once again. I was quite impressed by what I saw the first time around…

    DONNA: Thank you, Mr. Martin, I appreciate that.

    JACK: I should add one thing… I’m not much for formality, even though I may be the CEO of this company. Please call me Jack, it will put you at ease.

    DONNA: Okay – Jack. I must admit to being a bit nervous meeting you. Martin Enterprises does carry a bit of weight around Washington. At least, it did when I worked at my previous employer.

    JACK: (Scans resume) You attended the University of Florida?

    DONNA: (Does a brief cheer as Jack laughs) Go Gators! (Pause) Sorry. You can tell I wasn’t a cheerleader in high school.

    JACK: But you have a lot of spirit. (Scans resume further) From there you went to Los Angeles and then ended up in Washington.

    DONNA: That’s correct. I spent about a year in LA helping my brother Quentin, he has a security agency he runs out there and I was his legal assistant while he got it off the ground.

    JACK: Then Washington. Donna, I must admit, the firm you worked for is pretty high-profile. I usually do not get people leaving DC for employment in Somerset.

    DONNA: I was ready to move on. I want to be a practicing attorney here soon and I wasn’t going to get that chance at the office I worked at. I have to take the bar exam yet to practice law in whatever state I end up in, and should I be employed here I’d take the New York exam.

    JACK: I see. (Puts resume down) I also see no reason why this interview should continue.

    Donna gets a momentary look of worry on her face as the music plays to change scenes.

    CUT TO: The Petterino kitchen

    Victoria is on the phone as Rose comes into the kitchen, and Victoria’s look on her face is one of worry.

    VICTORIA: All right, Taylor. Keep me posted as to what’s going on and let me know the minute you know anything. (Pause) Okay, take care. (Sets down phone)

    ROSE: Honey… what’s wrong?

    VICTORIA: (Turns toward Rose fighting back tears) Alana’s sick, Mom.

    ROSE: (Puts hand to mouth and gasps) What happened? I knew she had the flu.

    VICTORIA: She must have collapsed this morning at her apartment. Taylor sent Patrick over there and he found her semi-conscious on the couch. They think it’s meningitis.

    ROSE: My God… is she going to be all right?

    VICTORIA: Taylor said they’re worried about her fever. Last night at the hospital it was only around 100.5. It’s gone up about four degrees.

    ROSE: You tell Taylor that Giovanni and I are thinking about her. Bella too.

    VICTORIA: I’m glad I’m going in there later tonight. I’d be sitting around stir crazy wondering if there was anything I could do.

    ROSE: There is, honey. (Hugs Rose) Pray. Think good thoughts.

    We see tears running down Victoria’s face as she embraces Rose. The picture fades to black as the music plays out of the scene.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    Lorenzo and Anna share a night to remember when they give in to passions on Port Charles. Watch Port Charles, part of the MySONTV lineup. Weekdays on SONBC.

    We see a still shot of the Somerset logo with the accompanying music.

    And now the second half of Somerset, brought to you today by digestible, all-vegetable Crisco. For foods low in cholesterol and for flaky pie crusts, you can trust Crisco.

    SCENE THREE
    At Martin Enterprises, Jack is looking at Donna’s resume and then up at Donna.

    JACK: There is no way I can let a resume like this pass my desk without grabbing up that employee. (Extends hand) Welcome aboard.

    DONNA: (Visibly relieved) I can breathe again. You had me wondering there for a moment.

    JACK: Well, I don’t usually hire employees this quickly, but as it is my legal department has been understaffed for quite a while. I brought aboard an attorney several weeks ago, Susannah Lucas – you’ll get to meet her here shortly. But I can use someone with your expertise in the department.

    DONNA: That’s good.

    JACK: Plus with your eventual law background, you’ll be an asset to this company…

    As Jack is talking, Donna notices pictures behind Jack’s desk. She looks over a lot of the photos but is immediately transfixed by one. Her eyes widen as she sees a photo of Jack with a young man.

    JACK: Uh… something wrong, Donna? You act as if you have seen a ghost.

    DONNA: (Points at photo) How do you know that man?

    JACK: Which man? Which photo… (sees the picture) Oh! That photo. That is Nick Barclay, our city manager here in Somerset.

    DONNA: City manager? Wow, I’m impressed.

    JACK: He’s the youngest manager we’ve had here in Somerset and he’s been a great asset to this community. (Notices Donna has red hair) He was just in Washington attending a convention not that long ago, and… (starting to put two and two together)

    DONNA: Something wrong, Jack?

    JACK: By any chance, did you have an assignation with our city manager when he was in Washington? At a bar, I might add?

    Donna, visibly uncomfortable, gulps.

    DONNA: Uhhh… guilty as charged?

    Jack smiles at Donna and starts laughing, much to the surprise of Donna. The scene changes as the music plays into the next setting.

    CUT TO: Somerset Hospital, where Alana is in a hospital room already. Dr. Kellman is with Patrick.

    DR. KELLMAN: Good job on the diagnosis, Patrick. Your Dad would have been proud.

    PATRICK: He still can be. He’ll probably hear about it from a few people here at the hospital.

    DR. KELLMAN: Well, the good news is she has the viral form of meningitis, but you got her in here in the nick of time.

    PATRICK: (Looking down at an unconscious Alana) Now I can only hope we saved her life and she continues to have a life here at the hospital.

    Patrick touches Alana’s cheek as the music plays and the scene fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE FOUR
    At the hospital, Patrick comes out as Mike is waiting patiently in the lounge area.

    PATRICK: I thought you would have gone on to work.

    MIKE: I called Norman and told him what was going on. He said don’t worry about work, it’ll be here when I’m ready. How’s Alana?

    PATRICK: Have a seat. (The two sit) We diagnosed Alana with the viral form of meningitis. Don’t be alarmed by how sudden it came on because that’s how it usually happens. We’re working now on getting the fever down and her other symptoms under control. Once the fever breaks she’ll likely be on the sidelines for up to 10 days.

    MIKE: Can I see her?

    PATRICK: I’d say go back home and get some rest – or try to, anyway – I’ll call you if there are any major changes. Right now, we’ve got her on a heavy analgesic to get the fever down and acyclovir and phenytoin to prevent brain seizures from occurring. It’s strictly precautionary.

    The music plays as Mike digests what is going on, and the scene changes.

    CUT TO: Martin Enterprises

    Jack is laughing as he realizes who Donna is.

    JACK: Why do I have the sudden urge to sing It’s A Small World?

    DONNA: I don’t know, why? (Pauses) I suppose this ends my employment here?

    JACK: Are you kidding? (Realizes Donna is in the dark) Wait a second… you had no idea Nick was here, did you?

    DONNA: Not a clue. Right now I’m more nervous because I’m going to have to face Nick. (Smiles) And I’m loving every second of it.

    JACK: I tell you what… would you like to see Nick now?

    DONNA: (Looks down) Well, I look a whole lot different than I did at the bar… but Joanne thought I looked great, so why not.

    JACK: Hold on one second.

    He dials the phone number for City Hall and gets Nick on the line.

    JACK: Nicholas! Good morning. Sorry to do this to you, but can I get you to swing by to briefly discuss a little X Project business? (Pauses) You’ve got a lunch meeting at 11:45. Well, I’ve also got an appointment too, so I can promise you it won’t take long. (Pause as Jack’s eyes brighten) Brilliant! I’ll see you in about 10 minutes.

    Donna appears visibly nervous as Jack continues talking to Nick. The music builds in the scene as the picture fades to black, and the Somerset theme plays over the credits.

    Join us again each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset.

    And don’t forget to stay tuned for Salem Lives, coming up next over most of these SONBC stations.

    This program was pre-recorded.

  15. sungrey

    EPISODE 24 (8/16)

    By sungrey,

    Episode 24 of Somerset picks up in Nick’s apartment, as the music begins playing while Nick is looking at the Bid for Bachelors brochure Mike has dropped off.

    NICK: I don’t know, Mike. Bid for Bachelors?

    MIKE: (Takes a sip of beer) Hey, Nick… remember a few years ago when you took part in this? Who bid $2,300 for a night with you that included a tour of Somerset’s wine country and an eight-course dinner at Giovanni’s?

    NICK: (Nods) I know, I know… and Alana and I ended up spending three wonderful years together. Newsflash, Mr. Journalist… we’re two years broken up and, if I recall, you’re the one interested in going after my ex?

    MIKE: With your blessing, of course.

    NICK: Oh, of course. Look, am I committed to this?

    MIKE: Absolutely not. If you want, you can donate money…

    NICK: Afraid I can’t. I can’t put myself in any compromised position with the city.

    MIKE: Even with personal donations?

    NICK: Any gift I give is considered anonymous. Prying eyes like you can’t look into my giving history.

    MIKE: All I’m saying is it’ll help take your mind off of things… or certain people you met in bars out of town.

    NICK: I know that, too. (Looks at brochure again) You’re going to think I’m nuts, but can I think this over for a few days?

    MIKE: Take all the time you need.

    As Nick looks at the brochure, the music plays and the scene changes over to Giovanni’s, where Annabella is busy doling out drinks to the bar patrons. Patrick walks in and takes a seat.

    ANNABELLA: (Coming over to seat) Hey, stranger, want a brew?

    PATRICK: (Looks up and smiles) Wow! (Hugs Annabella) Welcome back to Somerset… how long have you been back?

    ANNABELLA: Several days now. I’ve been keeping a low profile.

    PATRICK: They’re probably happy to have you back.

    ANNABELLA: You talking about Mom and Dad?

    PATRICK: Who else?

    ANNABELLA: Yes, they are. They even took some time off tonight to get away. I’m running the bar while they’re gone.

    PATRICK: You actually got them to take time off?

    ANNABELLA: Yes. Am I a genius or what?

    Patrick snickers and lifts his beer to drink…

    The Somerset theme begins playing as we see an overhead shot of downtown, with the camera slowly pulling away from the buildings. The Somerset logo pops on the screen and goes into position at the center.

    This… is Somerset. This portion brought to you today by Jif, the only peanut butter with that fresh, roasted, peanutty taste. Choosy Moms choose Jif… and by Charmin, the squeezably soft, irresistible tissue your whole family will love.

    SCENE TWO

    At the Petterino house, Giovanni and Rose have come through the door just as Victoria was talking about the drink with Zachary.

    GIOVANNI: Victoria, have you accepted somebody’s offer for a date?

    VICTORIA: Dad… while I was out with the girls someone bought me a drink, and we’re going to head out tomorrow night after I’m done with work.

    GIOVANNI: Well now… I’m glad to see the phrase “all work and no play” doesn’t apply to my bella figlia.

    VICTORIA: It’s nothing major, Dad. Don’t order the wedding dress or anything.

    ROSE: Your dad’s just giving you a hard time. (Yawns) I don’t know about you, honey, but I think we’d best leave Alana and Tori to talk about whatever it is nurses talk about at this hour.

    GIOVANNI: You’ve got that right. Buonanotte Stella, you two.

    VICTORIA: Buonanotte, Dad. (Giovanni and Rose exit upstairs… Tori turns to Alana) Thanks a lot… are you trying to get me into trouble?

    ALANA: Me? What did I do?

    VICTORIA: I don’t want Dad knowing Zachary asked me for a drink. I don’t think he and Zachary’s dad have had a good history together.

    ALANA: Oh… kind of like sleeping with the enemy?

    VICTORIA: Except I’m not Julia Roberts and this isn’t going to involve a bed.

    Alana nods as Victoria looks up, hoping Giovanni and Rose didn’t hear the last part of the conversation. Without music, the scene cuts back to:

    Giovanni’s, where Annabella is wiping down a counter as Patrick is drinking a beer.

    PATRICK: So how was the latest visit to Italy?

    ANNABELLA: Oh, not bad. A couple of modeling assignments and much talk about a TV campaign where I pitch makeup. In short, just another boring day in the life of Annabella Petterino.

    PATRICK: I can’t believe you can keep quiet like that over here. Especially with the internet. Someone’s going to see your face on there one day and freak when they see you here in Somerset.

    ANNABELLA: That’s not going to happen, if I have anything to say about it. I’ve done a good job of keeping my Italian life over there and my life here something separate. Did I tell you I met a guy over in Italy?

    PATRICK: No! Congratulations… only when do you get back there to see him?

    ANNABELLA: He lives over here. He said he’d eventually look me up. He also told me that if it wasn’t going to work out he’d break my heart gently.

    PATRICK: And Scott (sips) can pick up the pieces.

    ANNABELLA: Oh no… not you too.

    PATRICK: What… what did I do?

    ANNABELLA: My mom and dad wondered about Scott and whether or not he’d make a good boyfriend for me. I told them we’re not interested in anything like that.

    PATRICK: Stood your ground, huh? Good for you.

    ANNABELLA: What about you, Dr. Kurtz? Any patients causing you to feel flush and weak in the knees?

    PATRICK: Well… an old family friend is working here in Somerset now. You’ll eventually meet her. Her name is Susannah…

    ANNABELLA: Lucas? Sam and Lahoma’s daughter?

    PATRICK: (Sets empty glass down) I didn’t think you knew the family!

    ANNABELLA: I know the Lucases through Mom and Dad. Well, I’ll have to play catch-up with Susannah when she comes around.

    PATRICK: She’s a really good person. Just moved here from Oklahoma City, and we’ve had opportunity to hang out a bit. Nothing more… we’re both too busy.

    ANNABELLA: A likely story.

    Patrick smiles as Annabella takes the glass he had and fills it with beer; the music plays and it’s a commercial break.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    Have you missed The City? Did you watch when it was on before and were you upset when it was canceled? Don’t be disappointed any longer. New to SONBC, The City is back in all its glory. Consult your local listings for time and station.

    SCENE THREE
    At Nick’s apartment, Nick is alone reading the brochure. He thinks back to the bar, to the young woman with whom he shared fleeting moments and a few drinks.

    The scene then changes to time he spent with Alana. We see Alana and Nick in normal flashback scenes, like kissing as they’re walking along the river, etc., as Nick remembers back to happy times.

    Cutting back to the present, Nick looks at the brochure again.

    NICK: Don’t be too rash… but maybe this would be a good thing for you.

    The scene changes as Nick settles in on the couch and sets down the brochure… we cut back to the Petterino house, as Victoria has brought down two items of clothing.

    VICTORIA: What do you think, Alana… (holds up short skirt)

    ALANA: (Shakes head) You don’t want to give off a flirty aura, do you?

    VICTORIA: Okay… (holds up longer skirt)

    ALANA: Good. Pair that with something demure and you’ll be fine.

    VICTORIA: I wish this drink were here and gone.

    ALANA: Why?

    VICTORIA: Because if it doesn’t work out then I’m going to look like a fool.

    ALANA: Just because you told a guy you’d meet him for a drink. Puh-leez, Tori, give yourself more credit than that.

    VICTORIA: Then why are you holding Mike at arm’s length? Don’t you have more feelings for him than I do for Zachary?

    ALANA: Well…

    VICTORIA: You know something, Alana… I think you may be denying yourself true happiness. And you can quote me on that. (Smiles and takes the clothes back upstairs)

    As the music plays, Alana gets a quizzical look on her face, wondering if indeed she is costing herself a shot at happiness. The scene fades to black, and the Somerset logo and credits appear following commercials.

    Stay tuned for Salem Lives, coming up next over most of these SONBC stations… Join us each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset.

    This program was pre-recorded.

  16. sungrey
    With Somerset approaching the end of two months of episodes on the air, there will be some new additions to the canvas, one temporary and two permanent.

    "While sorting through story ideas for Somerset, I got an idea of the perfect person Jack could consult for the X Project," Somerset creator and headwriter Steve Ungrey said. "It's a character who has been on the canvas before on the original Somerset, with the same actor playing the role. I think people will be extremely happy with the choice made here given the history of the show."

    This character's return will also tie in to another character's appearance on the canvas, with a name soap actor playing this role as well.

    Finally, to up Somerset's bitchy quotient, look for the casting of someone with ties to Somerset's past as well. The identity of this actress?

    "Let's just say I'm keeping it a secret," Ungrey laughed. "But she's the last person you'd expect to play a role like this."

    All three characters will be in place within the next couple months. In the meantime, Episodes 39 and 40 will be in place shortly. --SONBC
  17. sungrey

    EPISODE 32 (AIRED 08/28)

    By sungrey,

    SOMERSET EPISODE 32
    Original airdate: 08/28/07
    Written by: Steve Ungrey

    SCENE ONE
    This episode opens at the police department headquarters downtown, where Scott is at his desk looking at that day’s Register. He sees the story Mike has written regarding the X Project and is a bit surprised at some of the details. Scott dials over to City Hall.

    SCOTT: (Gets voicemail and realizes Nick is not at his desk) Probably making himself unavailable for comment. (Laughs) Nick, this is Scott over at the station. Wonder if you can meet with me regarding what you guys talked about. Obviously from a crime angle you’re going to need stats on how safe the city has been so Jack can get that to the appropriate parties.

    He sees Annabella at the door and motions her in.

    SCOTT: Give me a call when you get a chance. Thanks again. (Sets down phone) Hi! To what do I owe this pleasure?

    ANNABELLA: Could you use a friend to talk to this morning? I brought breakfast.

    SCOTT: (Looks inside bag) Mmm. Bagels and lox. How did you know I needed a fish fix this morning?

    ANNABELLA: Your favorite bagel. I didn’t forget.

    SCOTT: (Eating) Mmmm, I haven’t had one of these in a long time. So how is Alana? I heard she collapsed earlier today at her place.

    ANNABELLA: Well, I don’t know if you can call it a collapse. She was found nearly unconscious by Patrick. The last I heard from Victoria they were trying to bring her fever down. They’re pretty sure it’s meningitis.

    SCOTT: Hopefully they do it. You holding up OK?

    ANNABELLA: Trying. Alana’s like a sister to us. With Johnny in Denver it’s almost like having a third kid around the house.

    SCOTT: I know. (Pause) Speaking of around the house, did Giovanni take your moving out suggestion all right?

    ANNABELLA: You got a bit to talk about that? He took it rather well.

    SCOTT: I’m all ears. Fire away.

    As the music builds and dwarfs Annabella and Scott’s conversation, the scene shifts.

    CUT TO: Martin Enterprises

    In Jack’s office, Donna is looking her face over in her compact.

    DONNA: You sure I look all right?

    JACK: That answer would be grounds for a lawsuit in all 50 states.

    DONNA: I’m not filing, honest.

    JACK: You look just like you did one minute ago when you asked that question. (Phone buzzes) I think it’s your lucky day. (Goes over to desk and picks up phone) Yes, Joanne? (Pauses and then flashes thumbs-up) Okay. Stall him for a second until I figure out where to put Donna.

    DONNA: What are my options?

    JACK: (Sets down phone) You have a small closet you can hide in… or a small, private washroom I use.

    DONNA: Considering I’ll want to look myself over 100 times, I’ll take the bathroom.

    JACK: Okay. (Points) Right in there and I’ll summon Nick.

    Jack waits until Donna has hidden herself carefully, and then he opens the door to the reception area. Nick is standing there talking with Joanne.

    NICK: Hey, Jack.

    JACK: Nicholas, good morning! (Shakes Nick’s hand) You’re going to kill me. Idiot that I am, I left my notes down in the conference room. Can I go get them for a second?

    NICK: Sure, no problem.

    JACK: Good. Just wait in my office and I’ll be right with you.

    NICK: All right. (He enters Jack’s office)

    JOANNE: (Shaking her head and looking at Jack) You’re terrible.

    JACK: Ahh, he’ll thank me in about a few minutes.

    In Jack’s office, Nick is by Jack’s desk. He gets a faint whiff of perfume, causing his nose to wrinkle. He recognizes the scent of Enchantress – the perfume Donna is wearing – and he realizes he must be smelling things.

    Donna is in the washroom, nervous as ever. She gives herself one last look and tiptoes to the edge of the room before walking out a few steps. She turns to face Nick’s back.

    DONNA: Hey handsome. What’s a guy like you doing in an office like this?

    We see Nick standing there, back turned towards Donna. We can see Nick’s face, eyes widening as his mouth opens. Slowly he cranes his neck around to see Donna. The Somerset theme begins playing.

    We see an overhead shot of downtown, with the camera slowly pulling away from the buildings. The Somerset logo pops on the screen and goes into position at the center.

    This… is Somerset. Part 1 of Somerset is brought to you today by Charmin, the bathroom tissue so squeezably soft, it’s irresistible. And by Comet, the cleanser that disinfects as it cleans. Available in four sizes for kitchen and bathroom use.

    SCENE TWO
    A direct pickup from the previous scene, as Nick is facing Donna and can’t quite believe what he sees. He rubs his eyes – she’s still there. He blinks, same result.

    DONNA: Am I that blindingly gorgeous, or what?

    NICK: No. (Pause) You’re not real. My imagination’s playing tricks on me. (Turns back toward Jack’s empty desk) I thought this wouldn’t happen again.

    Donna is a little puzzled, but she takes a few more steps forward.

    DONNA: Now what makes you think I’m not real? What do you think I am, a ghost?

    NICK: I’m seeing things. I know it. I know you couldn’t possibly be here.

    DONNA: If you don’t think I’m real, then for crying out loud, come over here and find out for yourself.

    NICK: (Shaking his head) Jack will be back any second now, and I’ll close my eyes and you’ll be…

    By now Donna is right behind Nick. He turns around to see her face.

    Donna takes Nick’s hand and places it on her jacket. Slowly the expression on Nick’s face turns from bewilderment to joy.

    NICK: You… you’re… (whiffs air once again, getting scent of Enchantress) you smell so…

    DONNA: Yes, handsome?

    NICK: Real. (Eyes widen, like a kid opening Christmas presents) You’re real. You’re standing right in front of me. You’re... not my imagination. You’re real…

    DONNA: Well… now that you know I’m real, when do I get a proper welcome to Somerset?

    NICK: I can’t… I can’t believe… you’re here.

    Nick throws his arms around Donna to give her a big hug, picks her up in his arms and whirls her around. Donna’s giggling as she sees Nick so enthusiastic.

    DONNA: If I didn’t know any better, I’d swear I made someone’s day.

    NICK: God, you have no idea.

    Nick looks at Donna, who’s beaming with a huge smile right back at him. No dreams this time, no concussions suffered when his head bangs on the nightstand – Donna is in front of him in the flesh. The camera slowly fades to black as Donna tightly hugs Nick and closes her eyes with a wide grin on her face.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    And you thought Jim and Lynette were in the clear. Then why is Lynette drawn to Greg? You can’t miss a minute of Novi, part of the MySONTV lineup… weekdays on SONBC.

    We see a still shot of the Somerset logo with the accompanying music.

    And now the second half of Somerset, brought to you today by Prell concentrate. The only shampoo that produces shiny, beautiful hair from a concentrated tube.

    SCENE THREE
    Back at the police station, Annabella is munching on a bagel while talking to Scott about her conversation with Giovanni.

    ANNABELLA: I thought he’d break down and cry. Instead, he had me crying. He still thinks of me as a five-year old who is wearing a communion dress.

    SCOTT: That’s because you remind him of a happy time in his life.

    ANNABELLA: Can’t this be a happy time?

    SCOTT: Sure it can. There’s no reason why it can’t. I think he just doesn’t want to lose you. He senses Tori slipping away from him.

    ANNABELLA: Well, if he’s not careful… the way Mom reacted about Tori going out once with Zachary. It gave me chills. Mom’s never been like that.

    SCOTT: Your dad and the Cleypools don’t share a good history. Remember when George had a zoning dispute with Giovanni about expanding the restaurant into a place George owned?

    ANNABELLA: (Rolls eyes) You had to remind me of that, didn’t you? (Pauses) It’s time for me to strike out on my own. I don’t want a condo in Grant’s Preserve because I’d be too close, but I don’t want to be in something too opulent.

    SCOTT: Ever think about an apartment? Yeah, it’s rent, but with your supermodel’s salary… (Gets a devilish grin on his face)

    ANNABELLA: (Smacks him playfully) I’ll remember you said that!

    Annabella and Scott laugh as the music builds out of the scene. The scene shifts…

    CUT TO: Jack’s office, where Jack is walking in on Nick and Donna

    JACK: (Enters room) Well, Nick, I found my notes and – oh, I see you’ve met my guest!

    NICK: (Turns around) Well, Jack Martin. I smell a rat. A big rat.

    JACK: It can’t be her, because she’s wearing a perfume you love. What did you think I did, set this whole thing up?

    NICK: What do YOU think?

    JACK: All right. I’m guilty… of calling you over here, that is. The rest was done on her own when she walked into my office for an interview this morning. I think introductions are in order. Donna Morgan, meet Nick Barclay… Nick, this is Donna.

    NICK: (Takes Donna’s hand) Pleasure’s all mine. (Kisses her hand) Is that Donna as in prima donna?

    DONNA: Well, aren’t you the gentleman. At least I thought you were until now. (Laughs)

    JACK: He definitely is. Nick, meet my newest employee in the legal department.

    NICK: (Eyes widen) Nice. Jack, you hire very well.

    JACK: I’m afraid I need to borrow Donna before I go on my lunch appointment so she can meet Susannah.

    NICK: I have to run myself, but can I borrow Donna for a couple seconds?

    JACK: I’ll be outside. (Leaves the room)

    Nick and Donna look at each other, smiling, as the music fades to close the scene.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE FOUR
    Back at Martin Enterprises, Nick is ready to say something.

    NICK: I was wondering…

    DONNA: The answer is yes, hot stuff.

    NICK: (Eyes narrowing) You had no idea what I was going to ask.

    DONNA: I don’t care. The answer is yes, especially if you’re wondering if I’m free tonight.

    NICK: Well, the thought did cross my mind. When do you go back to Washington – or are you here to stay?

    DONNA: No, I go back to Washington for a few days to wrap up things. But I have tonight free, so would you be willing to squire a young woman around and show her the town?

    NICK: Depends on who she is and what she’s like – oh, you want me to take you around?

    DONNA: Very funny, handsome. What time do you want to meet?

    NICK: Does 6:30 sound good?

    DONNA: It’ll give me time to take a small nap… get ready… speaking of which, can you recommend anyplace for me to buy something for tonight?

    NICK: Unless you want to go to one of the malls on the outskirts, I think you’ll find Paisley’s Department Store a good choice.

    DONNA: They have a Paisley’s here?

    NICK: It originated in Somerset.

    DONNA: Well, I think I know where I need to open an account. (Leans in to hug Nick tightly) I’ll see you tonight. Room 446 of the Somerset Inn.

    NICK: I’ll be there.

    As Donna turns and walks away, Nick is overwhelmed with the realization that his romantic luck may have changed for the better. He has a spring in his step as he leaves the office, with the picture fading to black and the Somerset theme playing after the commercials.

    Join us again each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset.

    And don’t forget to stay tuned for Salem Lives, coming up next over most of these SONBC stations.

    This program was pre-recorded.

  18. sungrey
    MYSTERY WOMAN IDENTITY REVEALED!!

    And you thought Nick Barclay had lost out on his chance at love. At the end of the Friday episode of Somerset, were you shocked to find Nick's mystery woman interviewing for a job at Martin Enterprises?

    The mystery woman, Donna Morgan, gets a chance to be fleshed out thanks to veteran actress AUBREY DOLLAR joining the cast of Somerset. Dollar is playing Donna, a contract role which is now full-time as of Monday's episode.

    "It was always our intention for this character to be a regular," Somerset creator Steve Ungrey said. "I specifically didn't include Aubrey in the opening cast because I knew Donna would be making a two-episode appearance and then another quick one the day of Nick's accident, but I knew she'd be off the canvas for about 15 episodes after that. So I didn't want to confuse the viewers. I wanted them to think Nick had lost out before we pulled the big surprise reveal on Friday."

    What led Ungrey to consider Dollar for this role?

    "Spunky redhead," Ungrey said. "The character description of Donna is a flirtatious, sensuous individual who has a serious side to her. She's a very hard worker but she also has a soft side and a very playful side. There's a reason she calls Nick pet names like 'handsome' and 'hot stuff'. I'm looking forward to writing the storylines with Donna as she integrates with other characters, especially Nick, Jack and the other Somerset residents. As far as I was concerned, I knew I wanted Aubrey for this role the minute I imagined it on the canvas."
  19. sungrey

    EPISODE 7 (7/24)

    By sungrey,

    (The screen turns white as the Somerset skyline is drawn line by line on the screen and the music swells)

    This... is Somerset.

    SCENE ONE
    The scene is a direct pickup from Monday's broadcast, with George Cleypool seeing Susannah and turning toward her.

    GEORGE: Are you the irresponsible fool who nearly killed my son?

    SUSANNAH: (Appears shocked) I drove the car, yes. But your son only has a few bumps and scratches...

    GEORGE: (Comes in and gets close in Susannah's face) He could have been killed because of you!

    LAHOMA: Mr. Cleypool, that is enough. My daughter swerved to avoid something in the road. Had she not swerved, who knows what would have...

    GEORGE: (Turns around) Are you going to say who knows what would have happened? I know what would have happened. (He turns back toward Susannah) This person who shouldn't be driving after having a few glasses of wine would have hit the motorcycle and killed Zachary. Why are you even driving??

    SUSANNAH: Mr. Cleypool, your son is fine. He's...

    GEORGE: (Raises his voice and yells at Susannah) No thanks to you! He's in a hospital bed because you didn't see him? DIDN'T SEE HIM?? How could you not see...

    As George is continuing his tirade, Jack comes into the waiting room.

    JACK: If you care to browbeat my friends, George, at least have the common decency to yell at a defenseless woman.

    SUSANNAH: Jack, I can take care of...

    JACK: There's no defense against someone like George Cleypool, Susannah. (Comes over to George) I believe you know your son is okay and that he swerved to avoid the car. Which was driving in a straight line and Susannah was not drunk.

    GEORGE: Plying your friends with a little booze and liquor, Jack? Is that the only way you can get support these days?

    JACK: (Smiles and begins laughing) Oh no no, George... I'm not falling for that routine. I suggest you save your voice for someone who really needs to hear it...

    GEORGE: You have not heard the last from me. (Points at Susannah) Count on that. (He leaves the waiting area)

    SUSANNAH: (Still a bit shaken) Man, Jack... what did you do to upset him so much?

    JACK: Sold Delaney Brands down the road accidentally. Are you all right?

    SUSANNAH: Considering I just got examined by Patrick and told everything was okay, I think so.

    PATRICK: (Appears from a corridor) And I think I just heard my name. You guys have time for a little catch-up session?

    LAHOMA: Sure, Patrick. Is it your break?

    PATRICK: Working a shift that takes me into the overnight, so yeah... I need a meal in me. Come... I know you've eaten, but you need to see the hospital cafeteria.

    SAM: Lead the way. Glad we ate. (Laughs)

    (The music plays as the picture fades to black and then fades in with the Somerset logo)

    Somerset. Brought to you today by Head and Shoulders. The shampoo that relieves problem dandruff and dry scalp for fresher, cleaner hair. You never get a second chance to make a first impression.

    SCENE TWO
    It is quiet in the Grant's Preserve subdivision as Rose is sitting out on the porch. Giovanni arrives home and a door slams.

    GIOVANNI: Rose... Rose, honey... where is my bella?

    ROSE: (Yells) Out here, dear. Enjoying a nice evening, or what's left of it.

    GIOVANNI: Ah, I see. (Appears in doorway) There she is. (Comes over and kisses Rose) You look as good as you did the day we met.

    ROSE: Slaving over a hot stove at the college cafeteria?

    GIOVANNI: You know better than that. (Sits down) You were working at the pizza parlor just off campus. I came in and ordered a pizza with anchovies, mushrooms and sausage...

    ROSE: So it was the pizza. All these years I thought you couldn't resist me.

    GIOVANNI: You too. (Kisses Rose) You looked so attractive with pizza sauce on the apron.

    ROSE: And all these years later, here you are.

    GIOVANNI: It's a little quiet here tonight. Where's Victoria?

    ROSE: I sort of encouraged her to take a pint of ice cream over to Alana's apartment.

    GIOVANNI: (Gives Rose a cockeyed look) Rose Julia Alberts Petterino, are you trying to bribe the head nurse at Somerset Hospital?

    ROSE: Absolutely not. Alana's just talked lately about feeling a little lonely.

    GIOVANNI: Ahh, she'll adjust. She should think about getting a cat... a dog... a companion to keep her company...

    ROSE: Well, she had someone in her life, but it didn't quite work out.

    GIOVANNI: I didn't say the companion had to be a male human being.

    ROSE: Oh, I know. Alana can take care of herself, anyway. She's working all those hours at Somerset Hospital and Victoria really looks up to her. Besides, once Tori's up to speed, Alana's mentioned something about giving her more hours and taking some time to do other projects...

    GIOVANNI: I see. Does she still harbor dreams of being a doctor?

    ROSE: No, she likes her nursing job. Now Tori... I think she could be a doctor in an instant.

    GIOVANNI: Try again, honey. It takes how long to become a doctor?

    ROSE: (Nuzzles and kisses Giovanni) Oh, you know what I meant...

    (The two turn and look at the sky as the music plays and the scene changes)

    CUT TO: The cafeteria at Somerset Hospital, where Lahoma, Sam, Susannah and Patrick are around a table. Jack already has bid his friends goodbye for the night and returned to the condo.

    LAHOMA: I couldn't believe how that man acted.

    PATRICK: (Sipping coffee) George Cleypool, head of the Cleybank Corporation. He does a lot with the hospital, but he's got an awful bark. You didn't hear it from me, but I think he and his wife are estranged and that might be why he's acting like a...

    SAM: Jerk?

    SUSANNAH: Good one, Dad. So how are your mom and dad, Patrick?

    PATRICK: Just talked with Dad a few days ago. He and Mom are enjoying semi-retirement in Arizona. He's still at it, though.

    SAM: Not surprising. Stanley was always a good doctor here in Somerset, and I was surprised to hear he married Teri. Happened after we left Somerset, right?

    PATRICK: About two years after you left. They had me, and I was such a handful they stopped.

    SUSANNAH: I can understand that. (Laughs)

    PATRICK: You already wanted my lab coat. You're pushing for the shirt, aren't you?

    LAHOMA: Excuse me?

    PATRICK: (Catches himself) Doctors' humor. Your daughter's always had the gift for the zinger where I'm concerned.

    SUSANNAH: Not really. It's just good to see a familiar face. It'll make the transition to Somerset less daunting.

    PATRICK: If that's the case (raises coffee cup) then I'll be glad to be of assistance.

    (The music plays as the picture fades to black)

    We'll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE THREE
    We fade in on the Petterino residence, where Giovanni and Rose are by the staircase area.

    ROSE: Tori still isn't back yet. You feel like being back in our twenties and fooling around a bit?

    GIOVANNI: A bit? I was thinking... (Leans in and kisses Rose over and over before whispering something inaudible)

    ROSE: (Looks shocked) My, you're a naughty boy. Come on before I change my mind.

    (In the next scene, we see Rose upstairs with Giovanni as she slowly unbuttons his shirt and he begins to strip her of her clothes. It's obvious what will take place, but the scene changes before we see any action)

    CUT TO: Zachary's hospital room, where he is being held overnight for observation. George is by his son's side.

    ZACHARY: Dad, I made the mistake. I may have been in the other car's way.

    GEORGE: You weren't over the limit, were you?

    ZACHARY: Two scotches after dinner. Hardly. I was heading into town to meet some friends for beers. If I didn't feel like driving back, I'd have stayed with a friend or had someone drive me back.

    GEORGE: Fenwick could have gotten you...

    ZACHARY: Dad, I can take care of myself.

    GEORGE: Humor me, okay? I almost lost you tonight.

    ZACHARY: (Gets an incredible look on his face) It was only a small cycle accident. It wasn't like I crashed into a car and rolled over its roof. Dad... I know you're worried about losing me from the house too, but I'm not going anywhere.

    GEORGE: Good thing. I need a partner in crime to assist me in my latest quest.

    ZACHARY: Which is what?

    GEORGE: Making sure the one who nearly ran into you pays. Dearly.

    (Zachary looks at his dad with seriousness as the picture fades and the Somerset credits roll)

    Join us each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. And on many of these same computers, be sure to watch the drama STEAM. Sex in the afternoon, weekdays on SONBC. This program was pre-recorded.


  20. sungrey

    EPISODE 34 (AIRED 08/30)

    By sungrey,

    SOMERSET EPISODE 34
    Original airdate: 08/30/07
    Written by: Steve Ungrey

    SCENE ONE
    It is quiet solitude here in Somerset as the show opens with an exterior shot of a car on a hillside. Nick’s car is parked overlooking the city, and he and Donna are in the back seat. Donna has her head on Nick’s shoulder and her eyes are closed, and Nick has his arm around Donna.

    NICK: (Looks down) Comfy?

    DONNA: Mmm-hmm. (Nods, smiling) I’m sorry I’m wimping out on you. I’m just a little groggy. It’s been a long day.

    NICK: Hey, there will be plenty of time to get to know each other.

    DONNA: You got that right. (Looks up at Nick and out the window) I never knew Somerset had such a gorgeous skyline at night.

    NICK: What way did you come in here when you arrived last night?

    DONNA: The interstate.

    NICK: Okay, that explains it – you get a good look at the city when you’re coming down the hill, but there’s nothing like the view from up here.

    DONNA: You told me there were two scenic overlooks in this city. Where is the other one?

    NICK: See the hill over there? (Points) You can barely make out a few car lights. It’s on the other side of downtown. This is the quiet overlook. A few guys with convertibles come out here and park sometimes, but many times this area’s not busy.

    DONNA: (Smiling) Is that why you took me out here?

    NICK: Well, the thought crossed my mind…

    DONNA: Good. (She closes her eyes once again, resting her head on his shoulder) I can’t wait to tell my friends who I met today in Somerset. They didn’t want me to meet anyone on the rebound.

    Nick smiles to himself – until it is obvious Donna said something she shouldn’t have. His eyes spring open, with accompanying low-key music. The scene changes…

    CUT TO: Somerset Hospital, in Alana’s hospital room

    The lights are still dim in Alana’s room as Victoria stops by to check on Alana and sees Mike there.

    VICTORIA: How is she?

    MIKE: Fine… (Looks at clock) Hey, I didn’t realize visiting hours were over.

    VICTORIA: Sit. You’re fine. Patrick and I are here and we give you permission to be in here.

    MIKE: Much appreciated. She’ll like having someone to keep her company.

    VICTORIA: I’ll be down the hall if you need me.

    MIKE: All right.

    As Victoria leaves the room, Mike turns back to Alana and sees her eyes closed. He weakly smiles.

    MIKE: You see, honey? You see everyone waiting here for you to get better? You just better hear everyone, you know that?

    We see a shot of Alana lying there.

    MIKE: And I meant what I said. I want that cup of coffee. I want to share so much more with you. I –

    Suddenly Alana’s body begins trembling. It appears as if she’s going into a seizure.

    MIKE: Wha – wha – what’s going on – (Yells) Patrick! Tori!!

    Alana grabs Mike’s hand, clearly still unconscious but aware someone’s in the room with her. She’s squeezing his hand tightly.

    MIKE: Hey, easy on the typing fingers… (His hand is being squeezed)

    We see Alana’s forehead, which is perspiring. She’s broken out in a sweat, and she’s calling out.

    ALANA: Mike… Mike, no… don’t go…

    MIKE: I’m not going! I’m not going anywhere…

    ALANA: (Still unconscious) No… Mike… no, don’t… I love you…

    Now it’s Mike’s turn to be stunned by what he hears. He looks straight ahead at the camera in shock and then down at Alana. The Somerset theme begins.

    We see an overhead shot of downtown, with the camera slowly pulling away from the buildings. The Somerset logo pops on the screen and goes into position at the center.

    This… is Somerset. Part 1 of Somerset is brought to you today by Era. The detergent that uses protein to get out your toughest stains… and by Luvs, the diaper that gives your baby comfort at an affordable price.

    SCENE TWO
    A direct pickup from the previous scene, as Mike is agonizing over Alana’s sudden seizure and perspiration. Tori and Patrick both run into the room.

    VICTORIA: What’s going on?

    PATRICK: (Notices Mike’s hand) What the hell did you do?

    MIKE: Me? She grabbed my hand! Can you help pry my fingers loose?

    PATRICK: Sure thing. (Pries at Mike’s fingers)

    MIKE: She began shaking uncontrollably when I was talking with her… she’s sweating…

    PATRICK: (Looking surprised) Sweating? Tori, take her temperature and let’s see where this is headed.

    Victoria puts a thermometer in Alana’s mouth and leaves it there until the thermometer beeps. When Patrick sees it, he smiles.

    PATRICK: Ahh, this is good.

    MIKE: What’s good? Patrick, details.

    PATRICK: (Shows Mike the thermometer) 99.8 degrees. Mike, I think her fever has broken.

    The music plays as Mike musters a smile on his face. We change scenes back to the hillside.

    CUT TO: Nick’s car

    Nick pulls away from Donna, who nearly falls down in the back seat.

    NICK: Oh, I just KNEW there was a catch to this!

    DONNA: (Sits up and looks at Nick) Catch? Nick, what’s wrong?

    NICK: You said on the rebound…

    DONNA: Oops. I have to remember not to have too much to drink at times.

    NICK: It’s not funny, Donna. I need to know what’s going on.

    DONNA: Nick, please… what’s got you bothered?

    NICK: The fact that someone with a… great smile… great personality… (scans down) great legs…

    DONNA: Keep this up, hot stuff. I could get used to all these compliments…

    NICK: Is in a car with me, having a great time, and there must be some sort of catch. What is it? Do you have a boyfriend back in Washington? Are you engaged? Are you married?

    DONNA: Nick, calm down. (Smiles) I can explain everything.

    NICK: That has to be it. You must have a ring on your finger (notices Donna’s hand) and you don’t have a ring… on your finger… God, do I feel stupid…

    DONNA: (Snuggles up to Nick) I think it’s cute.

    NICK: That makes one of us.

    DONNA: Let me explain. I don’t have a boyfriend or a husband. When you met me in Washington, I had just broken an engagement three weeks before.

    Nick has a surprised look on his face as Donna admits her broken engagement and is ready to hear more details as the music plays and the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    You loved her as Gina Capwell on Santa Barbara. Now a new day is dawning for Robin Mattson, who joins the cast of A New Day Dawning, seen weekdays as part of the MySONTV lineup. Only on SONBC.

    We see a still shot of the Somerset logo with the accompanying music.

    And now the second half of Somerset, brought to you today by Crisco Oil, for fried foods with no cholesterol and no grease.

    SCENE THREE
    Donna continues explaining her background to Nick, all the while holding his hand to make it more sincere.

    DONNA: That party where I was… that barrister’s party? It actually was my farewell party they were throwing for me.

    NICK: So you actually left your own farewell bash to come down to the bar?

    DONNA: Hey, I knew the Marlins were in town and I had to see how they were doing against the Nationals. A few of my friends didn’t want me to get drinks bought by guys or for me to hang out with anyone male that night.

    NICK: Sort of the all men are pigs theory? Or were they just hoping to set you up with one of their own?

    DONNA: (Laughing) I don’t know. When they came downstairs to grab me after I was talking to you, I wasn’t happy. I chewed out a couple of my friends when we left the bar. When I went back to see if you were there, you were gone.

    NICK: You came back – for me?

    DONNA: Someone had to, sweetie. Anyhow… (Pauses, hems and haws a bit) You’ll probably hear a lot about this guy in the next several days, so here goes. I was engaged to a Washington lobbyist… his name was Clarke. Clarke Freeman. And they were grooming Clarke for higher political office.

    NICK: I see.

    DONNA: I didn’t want to be a senator’s wife. Not yet, anyway. I also didn’t feel like having a husband who was going to be gone on trips and junkets all the time. So I backed away.

    NICK: Took guts to do it.

    DONNA: So… I’m kind of concerned because you’re Somerset’s city manager…

    NICK: (Nodding) I get it. And a politician. Donna, ask Jack. He’s grooming me for higher things but he’s also going to make sure I stay grounded. Well-grounded, if you get my drift.

    DONNA: So you can probably imagine I’m not in a hurry to jump into something major with anybody – that said, I want to tell you how wonderful a time I’ve had this evening and I’m hoping we can do this again a lot when I get back.

    NICK: You want to take it slow… sort of friends with benefits or something like that?

    DONNA: Does that sound bad?

    NICK: Not at all. Why didn’t you say so before? Donna, if you’re not in a hurry to get involved with someone right away, I can’t very well pressure you to do it. So we’d be friends with benefits.

    DONNA: Exactly. (Checks watch) The booze is starting to kick in again. Can you take me back to the hotel?

    NICK: Well, I guess…

    DONNA: (Smiles) You can walk me up, handsome.

    NICK: Well… (Opens door to get in the front seat) Let’s get you back downtown.

    As Donna and Nick get back in the front seat, the scene changes back to the hospital.

    CUT TO: Somerset Hospital

    Patrick is checking Alana over once again and has Tori take Alana’s temperature to make sure it’s staying down.

    PATRICK: (Checks thermometer) It’s back up to 100.6, but I think Alana’s out of immediate danger.

    MIKE: So her fever broke just like that?

    VICTORIA: It happens a lot. Sometimes when we give a patient antibiotics and the medicine builds up, it can overwhelm the infection.

    PATRICK: You told me Alana was shaking uncontrollably when her fever broke. I’m going to recommend we take Alana up to neurology for the night and have a CT scan done on her.

    VICTORIA: (Senses Mike’s apprehension) Mike, it’s strictly a precaution. The fact Alana’s fever broke so suddenly is a great sign. Patrick just wants to make sure there’s no brain dysfunction.

    MIKE: I see. Can I see her when she comes back down?

    PATRICK: We’re probably going to leave her up there overnight. Tell you what. I’ve got your cell phone – why don’t you head back someplace where you can relax and I’ll call if there are any changes? I really think she’s coming out of the woods, though.

    MIKE: (Stretches) Sounds good to me. If she wakes and asks for me…

    VICTORIA: I’ll tell her how good a guy you’ve been. (Hugs Mike)

    MIKE: Much appreciated, thanks.

    Mike’s relief is evident on his face, as it is on the faces of Victoria and Patrick, as the music plays and the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE FOUR
    Mike has gone to Bernard’s for a beer, and he’s replaying the events in his mind from earlier in the show.

    ALANA: Don’t go… I love you…

    We hear Alana’s voice repeating “don’t go” and “I love you” a few more times. As Mike drinks his beer, we see the confusion on his face. Is this something where Alana was unconscious when she said it – or did she really mean it?

    CUT TO: Somerset Inn

    Nick is walking Donna back to the hotel room.

    DONNA: Thank you for the great escort back.

    NICK: It’s the least I can do. Sort of this friends with benefits thing, I guess.

    DONNA: (Smiles) I could show you another one of the benefits if you’d like.

    NICK: (With a resigned, happy look on his face) Okay, I’ll bite. What’s another benefit?

    DONNA: (Leaning in closely) Pucker up and you’ll find out, sexy.

    For the first time, Nick and Donna lean in close and share a kiss. Donna quickly overpowers Nick in the romantic clinch, delivering a kiss he’ll remember for decades if not centuries to come.

    Nick and Donna break free and Nick pulls back a bit, spent. Donna, breathing heavy, can only mouth the word “wow” as she opens her eyes.

    NICK: Who needs health insurance and a 401K? (Leans in and kisses Donna again, this time a lot quicker) I better let you get some sleep.

    DONNA: I had a lot of fun, I really mean it. You’ve got my e-mail and my cell… keep in touch with me while I’m in Washington so I don’t go stir crazy… and I’m going to need someone to help me find a place when I get back here.

    NICK: Count on it. Sweet dreams.

    DONNA: Sweet dreams, handsome.

    As they quickly kiss once again and Donna goes into her hotel room, she can feel her cell phone vibrating. As she shuts the door, Donna opens up her cell and sees the call on it. Her eyes widening, she clicks the start button and talks.

    DONNA: What were you doing all night, spying on me?

    A mysterious piece of music plays us into commercial break, followed by the Somerset theme.

    Join us again each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset.

    And don’t forget to stay tuned for Salem Lives, coming up next over most of these SONBC stations.

    This program was pre-recorded.

  21. sungrey

    EPISODE 3 (07/18)

    By sungrey,

    (The screen turns white, and the town of Somerset is drawn line-by-line as the music builds)

    This... is Somerset.

    SCENE ONE
    An outside shot of an imposing-looking mansion nestled in on a hill. This is the Cleypool mansion, formerly owned by Emily Moore and Philip Matson but sold in the mid-1970s. The property was abandoned for several years before George Cleypool stepped in to buy it.

    George is inside sitting in his richly decorated study, looking at what appears to be a legal document amid the darkly-lit room. His butler, Fenwick, interrupts.

    FENWICK: Excuse me, Master Cleypool... you have a package waiting for you.

    GEORGE: (Looks up) Oh, good! I hope it's the special one I've been waiting on for a while.

    FENWICK: It better be... (lifts it up to bring it in) Because it is one of the heaviest packages I've ever seen you get.

    GEORGE: You know I'll compensate you for it.

    FENWICK: With combat pay, I hope. (Dryly smiles) Will that be all, Master Cleypool?

    GEORGE: Yes, Fenwick. You may go.

    As Fenwick exits, a younger man enters the study. After exchanging pleasantries with Fenwick, Zachary Cleypool approaches his dad.

    ZACHARY: Dad, I haven't seen you this excited in a long time.

    GEORGE: Wait until you see what this is... that is, if it's what I think it is.

    ZACHARY: You want to run that by me again?

    GEORGE: Never mind. (Opens package and sets it on the table)

    It is what George believed it was. Inside is a model of downtown Somerset.

    ZACHARY: Dad, other millionaires collect model trains. Planes. Cars. What are you doing collecting miniature cities?

    GEORGE: Take a closer look, son! (Encourages Zach to look down)

    ZACHARY: (Realizes what he's looking at) Uh... Dad, what are you doing with a model of Somerset?

    GEORGE: Playing God, that's what. Playing God.

    (George and Zachary look at the Somerset model as the picture fades to black and music plays)

    Somerset... brought to you today by Lilt. The only home permanent with gripper sponges. The way to shiny, beautiful hair.

    SCENE TWO
    We see the Grant's Preserve subdivision sign and condos behind it. Inside a condo, Susannah is unpacking some items with the help of Lahoma.

    SUSANNAH: Why did Dad decide not to help us and take off with the car?

    LAHOMA: I think he got a little misty-eyed looking at Somerset and how much it had changed. Realizing these condos are built on top of the plant where he worked for so long took a little getting used to and he wasn't ready.

    SUSANNAH: They're just condos.

    LAHOMA: (Looks over from the closet) Not to your dad. This town was a big part of his life. OUR life. This is the town where you were born. I know you didn't live here too long, honey, and I really admire your desire to come back to Somerset and start a new chapter...

    SUSANNAH: But you think coming back here opened up a lot of wounds.

    LAHOMA: Not really wounds, honey. (Comes over and helps Susannah with a load of clothes) We had some tough times here in Somerset, and most of them were connected with Delaney Brands. When you and I left town, I thought we'd have to start a new life without Sam.

    SUSANNAH: Then you had second thoughts and told people where we were.

    LAHOMA: God, when Ada found out, I swore Sam broke the speed records getting to Oklahoma. It only showed how much he loved me and you. But for a long time in our household, Somerset was a bad word.

    SUSANNAH: I intend on making it a good one. (Leans in and hugs Lahoma)

    CUT TO: Another house in a different part of the subdivision. This is the home of the Petterinos, and we see a car driven by Victoria pull up in front of the home. She goes inside.

    In the family kitchen, Rose Petterino is testing a sauce in a pan when Victoria walks in.

    ROSE: Mmm, Tori dear... taste.

    VICTORIA: Hello to you too, Mom. (Tastes off the spoon) How many different kinds of pesto can you make?

    ROSE: It's not pesto, honey...it's a different sauce Giovanni is thinking about testing in one or two dishes. Good?

    VICTORIA: Well, if you say it's not pesto then it's not... it's good.

    ROSE: I'll tell Giovanni it means with Tori's seal of approval. How was work today?

    VICTORIA: Good... I got to see the vaunted nurses lounge for the first time.

    ROSE: You act as if it's a state secret.

    VICTORIA: Before, the student nurses just had coffee in the hospital cafeteria. I feel like I've been admitted to the inner sanctum.

    ROSE: Honey, I think Alana really likes you as a nurse. She's raved about your abilities every time she stops in for takeout.

    VICTORIA: I like Alana too. She's a great mentor. She and Annabella are good friends... they don't do a lot together lately with how their jobs have fared...

    ROSE: But the family socializes very well. Alana's almost like a sister to both of you and another child to us with Johnny in Denver.

    VICTORIA: Alana thinks I'm jealous of Annabella, that I'm in her shadow. I'm not... am I?

    ROSE: (Comes over and puts hand on Victoria's shoulder) I know it's been hard listening to Giovanni moan on and on about Annabella this, Annabella that. But Giovanni and I love our children equally.

    VICTORIA: I know. I know. And it will show in the end. (Pauses) Need a hand with the sauce?

    ROSE: Sure, honey. Roll up the sleeves.

    (Rose and Victoria work on the sauce as the picture fades to black)

    We'll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE THREE
    Michael is still at Bernard's bar when another younger gentleman walks in. The man, Nick Barclay, bellies up to the bar for a beer.

    MICHAEL: If it isn't Somerset's youngest-ever city manager.

    NICK: On the prowl for a story, Mike?

    MICHAEL: Naa. Just got done with Lt. Garfield on a story about crime in Somerset.

    NICK: Or lack thereof... we've been pretty lucky there. Knock on wood.

    MICHAEL: (Reaches up to rap Nick on the head) Okay.

    NICK: Very funny.

    MICHAEL: I'm talking to Jack tomorrow regarding his big project... any light to shed with me on it?

    NICK: On or off the record?

    MICHAEL: Your choice.

    NICK: Either way, I couldn't help you. Jack has yet to brief me on what's going on and I'm like a son to him.

    MICHAEL: Well, you'll find out sooner or later what's going on. I think we all will.

    NICK: That's Jack's plan, anyway.

    CUT TO: The Cleypool mansion, where Zachary and George are studying the model.

    ZACHARY: Whoever worked on this model really knew what he was doing.

    GEORGE: It's pretty lifelike, isn't it?

    ZACHARY: Soon I'm going to wonder if you've got little people running around this model. (Sees something interesting) Wait a minute. These buildings aren't a part of downtown Somerset. Nor are those. (Looks at George) What is this?

    GEORGE: Oh, it's Somerset, all right. (Pauses) When I'm done with it.

    (The music swells to its conclusion as the picture fades to black and the Somerset credits roll)

    Join us each weekday at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. And on many of these same computers, be sure to watch the romance and drama of Novi. Weekdays on SONBC. This program was pre-recorded.
  22. sungrey

    EPISODE 30 (AIRED 8/24)

    By sungrey,

    SOMERSET EPISODE 30
    Original airdate: 08/24/07
    Written by: Steve Ungrey

    SCENE ONE
    It is morning in Somerset, and we fade in on Grant’s Preserve as Susannah emerges from her bedroom dressed for work. As she is looking at her face in the mirror, the phone rings. She runs over to the kitchen wall and picks up the receiver.

    SUSANNAH: Hello?

    We see Nick at his office, turning on the computer screen.

    NICK: So you’re still among the living, huh?

    SUSANNAH: (Laughs) Hi! Yes, I am… I made it in last night, ran a bath, soaked in the tub for a while and then went in and went right to sleep.

    NICK: You weren’t tipsy at all?

    SUSANNAH: No, I felt just fine. Enough to come back in the car last night and… by the way, I’m sorry if you felt I overdid it with that kiss.

    NICK: Don’t sweat it. It’s your way of saying you had a good night.

    SUSANNAH: Well, then I won’t feel sorry. I’ll look forward to another time like this, if and when it happens.

    NICK: Me too.

    SUSANNAH: (Hears knock at door) Oops, I bet that’s Giovanni. I gotta run. (Pauses) Have a good day, okay?

    NICK: You too. Talk to you soon. (Hangs up)

    Susannah hangs up and goes over to the door, where Giovanni is waiting. She opens the door.

    GIOVANNI: Buongiorno, Susannah!

    SUSANNAH: Hi there. Thanks for offering me a ride into the city.

    GIOVANNI: I’d rather have you home in one piece than in pieces at the hospital. How was your date last night?

    SUSANNAH: (Laughs) Well, I wouldn’t call it a romantic date… but it was fun. I had to get out and enjoy myself.

    GIOVANNI: You picked a good guy to head out with and talk business. Are you all set?

    SUSANNAH: (Grabs purse) I am now. Let’s go.

    The music plays as Giovanni and Susannah exit the house and head for his car.

    CUT TO: The hospital, where Alana is rubbing her neck as she yawns and stretches. She puts a hand on her forehead, both because she’s warm and she’s experiencing a small headache. Mike comes in and notices Alana.

    MIKE: Judging by how you look, I’m going to guess you’re not up for coffee.

    ALANA: You guessed right. Can I take that rain check… I promise I’m good for it.

    MIKE: On one condition. Did you walk here last night or drive?

    ALANA: I walked over.

    MIKE: Then you’re getting a ride back and an escort up to your place. No questions, no hassles.

    ALANA: You’re sweet. I think I’ll take you up on it.

    Taylor comes out and is ready to leave before she sees Alana.

    TAYLOR: Heading home?

    ALANA: Yes. I’m going to sleep off this illness and hope my fever breaks.

    TAYLOR: OK. Don’t work at all, all right?

    ALANA: Not a chance. (Turns to Mike) Let’s get out of here.

    As Alana and Mike leave, Taylor goes back into the nurses’ lounge and dials a number.

    TAYLOR: Hi Patrick, it’s Taylor at the hospital… hey, are you coming in here today or not until tonight?... Before 10? OK, can you do me a favor and stop by Alana’s place? (Pauses) She just left here with Mike and I’m worried. (Pause) Yes. She’s not looking good at all.

    Taylor’s face looks frightened as the Somerset theme starts playing.

    We see an overhead shot of downtown, with the camera slowly pulling away from the buildings. The Somerset logo pops on the screen and goes into position at the center.

    This… is Somerset. Part 1 of Somerset is brought to you today by Cheer, for the way you wash in hot, warm and cold water. All-Tempa Cheer… and by Pert Plus, the shampoo for hair that bounces and behaves.

    SCENE TWO
    At Martin Enterprises, Jack is stepping off the elevator to a cup of coffee offered by Joanne.

    JACK: Well, good morning to you too!

    JOANNE: (Hands him a sheet of paper) I knew you had a busy day ahead so I took the liberty of typing out an itinerary.

    JACK: Geez, Joanne… you didn’t have to do that. (Scans the sheet) On second thought, I’m glad you did. Three interviews, a luncheon appointment… and I see I have to keep this appointment since I rescheduled it already…

    JOANNE: You haven’t had a busy day like this in a long time.

    JACK: Oh, relax, I certainly have. (Sees clock) What time is my first interview?

    JOANNE: At 10. Already called the office here and confirmed.

    JACK: Well, how conscientious. I better take this coffee and get the heck in my office to do a little homework.

    JOANNE: Do you want me to hold calls?

    JACK: No, you don’t need to do that. It’s called multitasking and if I haven’t mastered it by now…

    JOANNE: (Laughing) Okay, Jack.

    Jack enters his office as the music plays and the scene changes. We see an exterior shot of an apartment building.

    CUT TO: Alana’s apartment, where the door opens and Alana and Mike come in.

    MIKE: Are you sure you’re all right? You seemed awfully slow getting out of the car.

    ALANA: Relax. I had a long night. I’m going to go straight to bed and sleep this off.

    MIKE: Good to hear. You call me if you need anything, okay?

    ALANA: You’re so sweet. Why have I treated you so bad?

    MIKE: You haven’t. Yet, anyway. (Turns and opens the door) Take care of yourself.

    ALANA: I will. Thanks…

    Mike leaves the apartment, leaving Alana alone.

    Alana turns to grab a cup and run water from the kitchen sink to take cold tablets. She takes the tablets with water and heads toward the hallway.

    Near the bathroom, she stops, placing a hand on her forehead and grimacing. It’s clear she’s suffering from a more severe headache than she had when Mike brought her home. We see her run into the bathroom – it’s obvious she’s gone in to throw up – and when she emerges Alana is dizzy and unsteady on her feet.

    As the dramatic music plays in the background, Alana makes it back to the couch and lies down, taking the thermometer. When she sees the temperature, Alana’s eyes widen. Clearly her fever has risen dramatically.

    Her head hurts once again, prompting Alana to cover her eyes with one hand and cry out in pain. By now it’s obvious this isn’t the flu – what is it? The picture fades to black as the music swells to a climax.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    Marah sees something she shouldn’t on a gripping episode of Finding The Light. Find your Light – with Finding The Light, weekdays on SONBC.

    We see a still shot of the Somerset logo with the accompanying music.

    And now the second half of Somerset, brought to you today by Pantene. Pantene makes a wide variety of shampoos and conditioners for all types of hair – even yours.

    SCENE THREE
    At the Cleybank Corporation, George is busy at work in his office with Zachary also in his office. Both are reviewing a copy of that day’s Somerset Register, as Mike’s story has been printed.

    ZACHARY: Dad, it looks like Jack’s got some serious backing for this X Project.

    GEORGE: It’s all smoke and mirrors. He doesn’t have the backing yet. My sources are telling me his plan is no further along than mine.

    ZACHARY: Well, he does want to declare some buildings historic landmarks, Dad – including the ones you wanted to tear down.

    GEORGE: And you think that’s a good idea?

    ZACHARY: Dad, I’ve frequented some of those restaurants. Of course I think it’s a good idea. Don’t you think you can get some more sympathy with the public if you shifted your plans to the riverbank?

    GEORGE: What, offer up a competing vision of what downtown Somerset should look like? In a different place? Blasphemy!

    ZACHARY: I’m just saying, Dad… it might be a good idea…

    GEORGE: This is the man who singlehandedly destroyed Somerset when he sold Delaney Brands down the river. Do you know how long it took this town to recover its footing?

    ZACHARY: The last I knew, Dad… the town was still standing a long time ago.

    GEORGE: But it isn’t as vibrant as it could be. I wish I could figure out what was going on with this development.

    ZACHARY: Doesn’t it say something about the People’s Building in that story?

    GEORGE: It says Jack wants to buy the building. Why is beyond me. (Thinks about it) Actually, I have an idea why he’d want to do it, but he’s nuts if he does. (Pauses) Do me a favor. Do you have any major plans today?

    ZACHARY: Dad…

    GEORGE: You’re right. Forget I said that. I could sure use your help on a couple things here.

    ZACHARY: (Pretends to roll up sleeves) Well, then you’ve got it. Where do I start?

    The music builds as George pulls out a paper dealing with another project, ready to show off to Zachary. The scene changes.

    CUT TO: Outside Alana’s apartment

    Patrick is coming up the hall and knocks on the door.

    PATRICK: Alana? (Knocks again) Alana? (Knocks louder)

    ALANA: (Weak voice from inside the door) It’s open.

    Patrick opens the door and finds Alana on the couch semi-conscious.

    PATRICK: (Runs over) Hey Alana… (Bends over and kneels by her) Hey, how are you?

    ALANA: I’ve been better. (Grimaces)

    PATRICK: What’s wrong… what are you feeling? Can you speak all right?

    ALANA: Yeah. It’s my head… I’m nauseous…

    PATRICK: (Grabs thermometer and puts it in Alana’s mouth) Let me do a quick read here. (Waits and takes out thermometer, and his eyes widen) My God… 104.8. Can you stand?

    ALANA: I may need help.

    PATRICK: If I have to carry you down the stairs I’ll do it. You need to get back to the hospital and pronto. You shouldn’t have left there.

    ALANA: (Groggy) What’s wrong with me?

    PATRICK: I think I know. I don’t want to say anything, but I think I know.

    ALANA: Call Mike for me, would you?

    PATRICK: (Nods) Let’s get the heck out of here.

    As Patrick grabs Alana’s purse, he slings her right arm around his shoulder. She’s wobbly on her feet, but she can walk toward the door. As the music builds, the two leave the apartment… the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE FOUR
    At Somerset Hospital, Patrick is at the nurses’ station when Mike runs in. He’s obviously agitated upon hearing the news about Alana.

    MIKE: Patrick, what happened? How is she?

    PATRICK: Hey. Have a seat over here. (Motions him over to the lounge area)

    MIKE: (Walks over and sits down) I just left Alana not more than a half hour ago! How did she deteriorate so quickly?

    PATRICK: She’s been sick for a few days. I thought it was a cold or a slight case of the flu, but a couple other symptoms have come to the forefront. I’ve got her upstairs with Dr. Kellman in neurology and he’s running a few tests.

    Taylor walks over as Mike and Patrick are talking.

    MIKE: Neurology? Patrick, what did she have, a stroke? (Pauses) Is she going to… die?

    Taylor’s eyes mist slightly as Mike’s agonizing words hit home with Patrick. Patrick puts a hand on Mike, and he turns and sees Taylor there. The music builds before the change of scenes.

    CUT TO: Martin Enterprises

    Jack is inside his office studying a file when the phone buzzes.

    JACK: (Picking up phone) Yes, Joanne? (Looks at clock) My 10:00 is here about 10 minutes early. That’s punctual indeed. (Pauses) No, I’m fine. I’ll be right out.

    Joanne is looking up at another person, whom we cannot see.

    JOANNE: He’ll be right with you.

    In the background, the song “Cherchez La Femme” can be heard playing again as Jack looks at the resume and sticks it back in a folder. He walks out into the reception area to greet his interview, whom we still can’t see.

    JACK: (Extends a hand) Donna Morgan! Welcome to Somerset!

    DONNA: Thanks, Mr. Martin, it’s a pleasure to be here.

    As the camera pans over to Donna, we see it is indeed a familiar face. “Cherchez La Femme” in English means Look for the Woman. She may be wearing glasses and a three-piece suit, but there’s no disguising it. The woman is Nick’s mystery woman from the bar in Washington.

    The picture does an immediate cut to black, and the Somerset theme plays following the commercials.

    Join us again each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset.

    Be sure to stay tuned for Salem Lives, coming up next over most of these SONBC stations.

    This program was pre-recorded.

  23. sungrey

    EPISODE 13 (8/1)

    By sungrey,

    (The screen turns white as the town of Somerset is drawn line by line on the screen)

    This... is Somerset.

    SCENE ONE
    The familiar shot of Somerset Hospital opens the day's episode, as we fade in on the fourth floor. Victoria is at the desk answering phones.

    VICTORIA: Mr. Hennessey, your test results just came back. Dr. Kurtz is waiting to talk to you... no, I can't look at the results without you coming in. Dr. Kurtz will have to take care of that... (pauses as Alana walks in) OK, we'll see you in a bit. Thanks.

    As Victoria puts down the phone she smiles, obviously knowing what went on last night.

    ALANA: I suppose word has gotten out all around the hospital?

    VICTORIA: Alana, no one's really wondering what happened. I just know you went to meet Mike for a beer because people at Giovanni's were talking.

    ALANA: Ohhh... (Buries her head in her hands and shakes her head) I'll never live this down. (Raises head and smiles) Other than that, things went all right. Come, I'll tell you all about it.

    VICTORIA: Oooo, the inner sanctum once again? I'm glad I'm about to take my break.

    ALANA: It's not juicy, but it's news at least... no pun intended.

    VICTORIA: Oh, that was bad. Bad. (Laughs as she follows Alana to the nurses' lounge)

    We directly cut away from the scene to the police station, where Lt. Garfield is at his desk looking over some police reports when Jack appears at the door.

    JACK: (Raps the door) Knock knock, lieutenant. Is this a bad time or is it always a good time in Somerset these days?

    SCOTT: (Looking up) Hey, Jack. This will give me a chance to put the paperwork down and talk a little business with the community. Have a seat.

    JACK: Don't mind if I do. I saw you up at the bar with Mike last night but didn't get a chance to say hi.

    SCOTT: I think I was keeping Mike company until his date for the night showed up.

    JACK: Really? The good journalist is keeping company with a woman? Alert the media. (Laughs) Wait, that didn't come out quite right.

    (Scott nods as the picture fades to black and the Somerset logo appears)

    Somerset. Brought to you today by Gleem, the toothpaste for adults. Fights cavities and freshens adult bad breath.

    SCENE TWO

    Alana and Victoria are in the nurses' lounge as they sip a morning coffee and Alana changes into suitable nurses' attire.

    VICTORIA: I didn't know if you were going to go over to Giovanni's last night or not.

    ALANA: Well, considering I really didn't have that much to do... it was either that or read a few more chapters of Harry Potter...

    VICTORIA: Deathly Hallows?

    ALANA: Please. Not even finished with the second book yet. And DON'T tell me how it ends. (Sips coffee and sits down) Mike's a nice guy. I just don't know if I'm ready to dip a toe into the dating pool once again.

    VICTORIA: You can't let the actions of one relationship slow you down forever, Alana.

    ALANA: Oh, I know that. Nick knew it too.

    This is the first on-screen mention that Alana's ex-boyfriend was Nick Barclay. As the music builds, we shift back to the police station as Jack and Scott are chatting about city matters.

    JACK: I wanted to show you one building in particular that I'm interested in and you tell me if there's anything fishy going on over there.

    SCOTT: (Looks at photo) The People's Building? That's one of Somerset's oldest buildings. Hasn't been used in years.

    JACK: But it's avoided the wrecking ball. I'm afraid George Cleypool will get his hands on it and tear it down. That's why I'm interested so much in the property. It's a catalyst for what I want to do.

    SCOTT: Care to share?

    JACK: In due time, Scott. Due time. (Shakes his head) I'm still getting everything in order.

    SCOTT: Jack, need I remind you... you've got Wagner fishing around wanting to get clues, you've got Nick tied in knots over this and he just took over city management of Somerset not too long ago...

    JACK: Both Mike and Nick are aware of what's up. I haven't filled them in on the full story yet, but suffice to say they are very interested in hearing it.

    SCOTT: Is there a history behind all of this?

    JACK: More than you'll ever know, Lieutenant. (Smiles)

    Scott takes it all in as the camera slowly focuses in on him and the picture fades to black)

    We'll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE THREE

    Back at the police station, Scott and Jack are still going over city details, but the conversation is slowly turning in another direction.

    JACK: Once I get everything in order, I intend to let the city know of my plans. Until then...

    SCOTT: Aren't you afraid that Cleybank Corporation's acting behind the scenes?

    JACK: I've got resources, Lieutenant. Well-placed friends. They're going to tell me if they spot anything fishy when it comes to his activities.

    SCOTT: Then I think you've got the bases covered, my friend. Keep me posted.

    JACK: I will. (Rises up to leave but stops) Oh, by the way... I did overhear last night that your favorite model is returning to Somerset?

    SCOTT: Not you too, Jack Martin. (Shakes his head)

    JACK: Relax. I won't give you a hard time about it.

    SCOTT: For the record, Annabella and I have been friends for a while now. You know that.

    JACK: I know. I also know Giovanni will be very happy to have two of his kids under one roof. Has Giovanni gotten any indication yet when Annabella's coming home?

    SCOTT: In the next week or so. She's finishing up an assignment modeling cosmetics over in Rome. Ah, the glamorous life.

    JACK: Indeed.

    (The music builds as the action switches back to the hospital and Alana and Victoria are finishing up conversation)

    ALANA: Tori, Nick and I dated for two years... it didn't end well.

    VICTORIA: You guys are okay now.

    ALANA: Yeah. Now. But at the time, we were accusing each other of wanting to put our careers ahead of our personal lives.

    VICTORIA: (Smiling) And then you did.

    ALANA: But only after I broke up with Nick. It wasn't easy, trust me.

    VICTORIA: Nick adored you. He cared for you. He still does.

    ALANA: We've been down this road before. (The two are leaving the nurses' lounge and heading back into the hospital area) Nick has told me it's going to take time for him to get involved again because he feels he screwed things up badly.

    VICTORIA: And you?

    ALANA: That's why I'm kind of holding Wagner at arm's length. I mean, I do like him, but I'm not ready to throw away a year or two only to find out things aren't going to work.

    VICTORIA: You should give it a try. You really should... (she sees Zachary in the waiting area) give it a try.

    Alana notices Victoria looking at Zachary and smiles to herself as if to say take your own advice. The picture fades to black and the credits roll.

    Join us each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. And on most of these same computers, be sure to watch Salem Lives, when Roman remains missing and is nowhere to be found. Weekdays on SONBC. The preceding program was pre-recorded.

  24. sungrey

    EPISODE 26 (08/20)

    By sungrey,

    SOMERSET EPISODE 26
    Original airdate: 08/20/07
    Written by: Steve Ungrey

    SCENE ONE
    As the music begins playing and the picture fades in, we see a shot of Susannah working at her desk and drinking a cup of coffee. Jack walks by in the hallway and takes a couple steps backwards once he realizes Susannah is in her office.

    SUSANNAH: (Looks up) Jack! Awfully early to see you here.

    JACK: I thought you were a wee bit early in arriving here. It isn’t even 8:30 yet.

    SUSANNAH: I’d be here a little after 9, but I’m just catching up on some paperwork.

    JACK: Well, I promise you that you’ll have a little help. I’m conducting a few interviews at the end of the week to fill some legal associate positions, so you’ll be more of a 9-to-5 type person.

    SUSANNAH: Don’t worry about it. One of the things I wanted to do was work when I got here, so you’re not keeping me from anything.

    JACK: (Smiles) I’ve heard nothing but praise from colleagues about you. You’re a fine asset to Martin Enterprises.

    SUSANNAH: Means a lot coming from you.

    JACK: (Feels cell phone vibrating) Oop, better take this call. I’ll talk to you later on today.

    Susannah flashes the thumbs-up signal as Jack opens the phone.

    JACK: Jack Martin?

    We see Nick at his desk, turning on his computer as he’s talking.

    NICK: You’re finally ready to talk a bit about this mysterious project, I hear?

    JACK: (Smiling as his eyes brighten) Yes! Yes! When can you and Michael come over jointly to discuss the X Project?

    NICK: I’ll clear a spot in my calendar as soon as you want to meet with me.

    JACK: I’d like it to be tomorrow if at all possible. I want Mike to have some time to clear his schedule, because we could be talking for an hour or more.

    NICK: Boy. You’re ready to spill your guts, huh?

    JACK: Yes. Let’s just say I finally had some inspiration.

    As Nick laughs, Jack turns and looks out the window at The Peoples Building.

    CUT TO: An exterior shot of the Cleypool mansion, as we slowly zoom in and fade in on the dining area. Fenwick is setting down a carafe of orange juice as George is reading the morning’s Register.

    FENWICK: Will Master Zachary be joining you today, sir?

    GEORGE: Not sure, Fenwick. He got in rather late last night.

    Just as George says that, Zachary comes bounding into the room.

    ZACHARY: But not late enough to enjoy breakfast with Dad. Good morning, Fenwick! How are you this wonderful morning?

    FENWICK: (Smiling) Wondering how well your night went, for one thing.

    GEORGE: Ah, that’s right. Zachary had drinks with a young woman last night. How did that go?

    We slowly focus in on Zachary, who is understandably sheepish to tell his dad who he went out with last night-- as the Somerset theme begins playing.

    We see an overhead shot of downtown, with the camera slowly pulling away from the buildings. The Somerset logo pops on the screen and goes into position at the center.

    This… is Somerset. This portion brought to you today by Crest Pro Health Night, the clear mint mouthwash that takes great care of your teeth… and by Camay, the soap that feels like you’re washing your face in cold cream.

    SCENE TWO
    Annabella is at the kitchen counter at home, making a pot of coffee and whistling to herself as she has breakfast cooking. Victoria descends the stairs, looking like she’d been up all night.

    ANNABELLA: (Turns to look) Good morning sleepyhead!

    VICTORIA: I’m definitely glad I have a night shift this evening.

    ANNABELLA: How’d you sleep?

    VICTORIA: Oh, just fine… (takes cup and pours coffee) once I got to sleep. I couldn’t close my eyes for a while.

    ANNABELLA: That good last night?

    VICTORIA: (Smiling) Well… let’s just say I had a better time than I thought I would.

    Rose descends the staircase, coming into the kitchen.

    ROSE: Morning, girls! (Looks at stove) Bella honey – you made breakfast?

    ANNABELLA: (Kisses Rose) You act like I’ve discovered a cure for cancer.

    ROSE: If only your cooking could be that simple. (Kisses Victoria) Morning, Tori. You look like you just went to bed.

    VICTORIA: Love you too, Mom. I got some sleep… I’ll probably take a nap before I head into work.

    ROSE: How was last night? You didn’t get in until after 2.

    VICTORIA: It was fine, Mom. (Sits at table) I went out for drinks with a friend… and we agreed another round of drinks might be something special.

    ANNABELLA: In other words, you’re going out again?

    VICTORIA: (Nods) Eventually, once I can get another free night on my schedule. We’re talking about dinner.

    ANNABELLA: Where’s Dad?

    ROSE: Oh honey – this was the morning he and a couple employees were heading to Albany to attend some hearings on restaurant safety. They left about 7:30.

    ANNABELLA: That’s right. So do you guys need help tonight?

    ROSE: If you’re volunteering.

    ANNABELLA: Sure. Be happy to help.

    ROSE: (Turns back to Victoria) Who is this guy you’re going out with, Tori? Has he been in the restaurant?

    VICTORIA: Well… (Looks a bit sheepish)

    ROSE: Come on, honey. As long as you’re not dating the devil he can’t be that bad.

    VICTORIA: Well… if you think Zachary Cleypool isn’t the devil then I guess that’s fine.

    Rose’s face drops a bit as Victoria looks on – the exact reaction Victoria thought her mother would have. Annabella notices Rose’s reaction and looks a bit puzzled. The music plays into the next scene.

    CUT TO: The Cleypool dining room

    ZACHARY: (Drinking orange juice) Things went well, Dad. We’re probably going to go out again for drinks soon.

    FENWICK: A splendid idea, Master Zachary. About time you went out and socialized… (George gives Fenwick a dirty look) Well it is, Master Cleypool.

    GEORGE: (Laughs) That’ll be all, Fenwick.

    FENWICK: Quite right, sir. Let me know if anything else is needed. (Walks out of room)

    GEORGE: Anyhow, who is this person? Is she the blue blood of Somerset? Is she from an outstanding social family?

    ZACHARY: Well, no – Dad, she’s a nurse at Somerset Hospital.

    George nods and is somewhat surprised to see his son involved with a hospital nurse. Before he can ask the identity of the nurse, his cell phone rings.

    GEORGE: (Turns away from table as he answers) George Cleypool?... Hi Ken… no, I’m at breakfast now…

    ZACHARY: (Thinking to himself) Saved by the cell.

    The music plays as Zachary realizes his dad might not approve of his choice of friends… the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    Today on Point Palace… the test results Nate didn’t want to hear about. You don’t want to miss the end of this gripping episode. Point Palace, weekdays on SONBC.

    We see a still shot of the Somerset logo with the accompanying music.

    And now the second half of Somerset, brought to you today by Oxydol. Oxydol bleaches as it washes… for sparkling whites.

    SCENE THREE
    An exterior shot of City Hall as we fade in on Nick at his desk, poring over a few budget reports. There is a knock on his cubicle.

    NICK: (Looks up to see Mike) Hey there. Did you get Jack’s message?

    MIKE: Partially. Joanne said he was in a meeting when I called, but I gather he’s ready to spill his guts about the X Project?

    NICK: That’s what I hear. You free tomorrow morning?

    MIKE: I certainly can be. This is the meeting I’ve been waiting for all my journalism career. I’m sure as hell not going to miss it now. What do you know about this?

    NICK: As much as you do. Jack’s told me nothing about his project, except to hint that it’s going to involve some urban renewal work.

    MIKE: Then I guess we’re going to find out together what the heck this is all about. Hey, did you get a chance to look over the bachelors’ brochure?

    NICK: I did… and I accept.

    MIKE: Wow! Two revelations in one day. (Shakes Nick’s hand) What made you change your mind?

    NICK: The fact it’s for a good cause and the fact that I’ve got to put myself back on the market. When is it, once again?

    MIKE: Not for another few weeks yet. We’re getting some support right now from the business community. People coming forward – do you think Jack would want to take part?

    NICK: I haven’t approached him. Good luck. He’ll probably decline.

    MIKE: Or at least help out with a cash contribution… we hope.

    NICK: (Nods) He’s been so wrapped up in work lately though… maybe this would be a good thing for him. I might broach it with him tomorrow, so hold off.

    MIKE: Gotcha. Well, good to see you aboard at least.

    NICK: A pleasure. Now if I only could find someone as appealing as Alana was…

    Mike laughs as the music plays and the scene changes.

    CUT TO: The Petterino kitchen, where Rose has just realized who Victoria’s friend is.

    ROSE: You could have your choice of all the eligible guys in Somerset – and you found him?

    ANNABELLA: Mother! What’s wrong with Zachary? He’s nothing like his dad, or at least what his dad was like when I left for Italy this time.

    ROSE: He hasn’t changed, Bella. And his son is likely cut from the same cloth.

    VICTORIA: Mom! (Stands up) I found Zachary to be nothing but a gentleman last night. He held my hand… he complimented me on how I looked… and he seemed genuinely happy to be with me.

    ROSE: It was probably the liquor talking.

    ANNABELLA: (Shocked) Mom! What did George Cleypool do to this family to make you so sour on Zachary?

    ROSE: Well, George and Giovanni go way back. I don’t think George likes Giovanni too much because Giovanni’s been a staunch supporter of Jack Martin.

    VICTORIA: That’s Dad’s problem, not mine.

    ANNABELLA: She’s right. Why should the next generation be punished?

    ROSE: (Sees her daughters aren’t budging) I just realized – I’d better call Leonard and see how things went last night. (Turns and leaves the room)

    Annabella turns back toward Victoria, who is brushing a couple tears away from her eyes.

    VICTORIA: Is this how it’s going to be? I’d best stick to nursing.

    ANNABELLA: (Reaches down from behind to hug her sister) Stick with it, Tori. If it makes you happy, then what the hell.

    Victoria shakes her head, in disbelief at how her mother reacted, as the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE FOUR
    Susannah is working at her desk as Patrick comes to the door. Knocking on the door, Patrick draws Susannah’s attention.

    SUSANNAH: Hey! How long have you been standing there?

    PATRICK: Long enough to watch you hard at work. Got time for coffee?

    SUSANNAH: Wish I did… but I’m poring over these files for Jack on Somerset property.

    PATRICK: Then… (Produces the containers) I brought the coffee to us.

    SUSANNAH: Good man. Bring me mocha. (Takes cup and sniffs) Oh, great… you always know the way to my heart.

    PATRICK: How are things?

    SUSANNAH: Great, why do you ask?

    PATRICK: Because you’ve been burying yourself in work the last several days. It’s almost like you’re afraid to go home –

    SUSANNAH: (Looks up suddenly) Why do you say that?

    PATRICK: For fear your desk will be doubly crowded with paperwork when you walk in the next morning. What did you think I meant?

    SUSANNAH: Oh nothing. Nothing at all.

    The music plays as the picture fades to black, and the Somerset logo and credits roll following the final commercials.

    Be sure to stay tuned for Salem Lives, coming up next over most of these SONBC stations.

    Join us again each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. This program was pre-recorded.

  25. sungrey

    NEW EPISODE!!! NUMBER 36

    By sungrey,

    SOMERSET EPISODE 36
    Original airdate: 09/03/07
    Written by: Steve Ungrey

    SCENE ONE
    It is a new week in Somerset, but it’s still the same day – as we pick up the action with a visit to Giovanni’s. Nick has stopped in for a drink while waiting for a business appointment to arrive, and he sees Annabella at the bar. Nick stops over and takes a seat.

    ANNABELLA: (Sees Nick) Hey there, Nick… welcome to Giovanni’s!

    NICK: You sound like you’re trying out your hostess voice on me.

    ANNABELLA: Can’t a girl be hospitable anymore? (Laughs) What’ll you have?

    NICK: Considering I have to go over budget numbers with someone, ya better make it a scotch.

    ANNABELLA: Yikes… the hard stuff this early in the day?

    NICK: Oh come on… it’s only early afternoon. Can’t a guy start drinking this early?

    ANNABELLA: (Reaches for a bottle and pours) I suppose. Hey, did I tell you I’m thinking about cutting the apron strings finally?

    NICK: How so?

    ANNABELLA: (Sets the glass in front of Nick) I’m finally looking at moving out on my own.

    NICK: So where will you place your million-dollar mansion? Up on the hill by the Cleypools?

    ANNABELLA: Very funny. No, I’m actually thinking about living downtown here and finding a roommate to hang out with – what do you think?

    NICK: Oh, if only it were this easy all the time. (Laughs)

    ANNABELLA: What do you mean?

    NICK: (Sees his client coming in) Tell ya what… can we touch base again after my meeting? I got an offer you can’t refuse.

    ANNABELLA: If I didn’t know any better, I’d swear you were…

    NICK: Trying to pull a con job on you? Not quite. I’ll explain.

    Nick walks over with his scotch to greet his business appointment as the music plays. The scene changes…

    CUT TO – The Cleypool mansion

    George has the pictures of Zachary with Victoria in front of him and he’s looking them over. He shakes his head and looks out the window as Fenwick comes in with coffee.

    FENWICK: Your coffee, sir.

    GEORGE: (Looks up) Ah, thanks Fenwick. After seeing this package I wish you’d put a little something stronger in this.

    FENWICK: That can be arranged…

    GEORGE: (Holds up hand and shakes his head) No, I was kidding. I need my wits about me for the conference call I’m going to have later on today.

    FENWICK: As you wish, sir. (Walks away) The pick-me-up is in the pantry if you need it.

    George chuckles before he turns back to the photos and looks them over.

    GEORGE: (To himself) Ah, Zachary. You told me you were interested in a nurse at Somerset Hospital but you didn’t tell me who it was – and now I see why.

    He goes over to the window with his coffee.

    GEORGE: (Drinks coffee) You have all your choices in front of you. A blue-blood girl with wealth and social standing. And yet you choose… a Petterino.

    Sipping coffee, George’s face slowly furrows.

    GEORGE: And I, for one, am not happy.

    As George looks out the window, we hear the Somerset theme start playing.

    We see an overhead shot of downtown, with the camera slowly pulling away from the buildings. The Somerset logo pops on the screen and goes into position at the center.

    BILL WOLFF: This… is Somerset. This portion of Somerset is brought to you today by the man behind the shine, today’s Mr. Clean. Cleans your whole house… and everything that’s in it.

    SCENE TWO

    FADE IN – Martin Enterprises office

    Susannah and Jack are at a table in his office going over some documents, including the Peoples Building floor plan.

    JACK: So the Cleybank Corporation didn’t secretly purchase this building to make my life miserable?

    SUSANNAH: Nope. Joseph says the last known owner is D. Whitehead and Associates.

    JACK: (Looks up) That company went bankrupt six years ago! I wonder if the city took possession of the building?

    SUSANNAH: Wouldn’t Nick know that?

    JACK: (Picks up phone) I’m checking right now… (phone rings and it goes to voicemail before beeping) Nicholas, Jack Martin here. Can you see if the Peoples Building is listed among foreclosed properties in Somerset? The last listed owner is no longer operating and I don’t think George had a chance to buy this building. Give me a jingle back as soon as you can. Thanks. (Puts down phone)

    SUSANNAH: Think he’ll know the full answer?

    JACK: That’s what he’s getting paid the big bucks for, Susannah. If I can easily purchase the Peoples Building, the rest of the plan falls into place easily.

    SUSANNAH: I wish I knew what had you so psyched about that building.

    JACK: It was a jewel of its time, Susannah. Don’t tell me you can’t remember what that building looked like…

    SUSANNAH: Do you remember how old I was when Mom and Dad left Somerset? What was I doing, just learning the alphabet and watching Sesame Street?

    JACK: That’s right. I keep forgetting you were all of two when Lahoma split town with you in tow.

    SUSANNAH: I can imagine, though. Oklahoma City’s got some nice architecture and if that building was anything like I think, it was beautiful.

    JACK: Yes. It was beautiful, indeed.

    The camera slowly focuses on Jack’s face as he remembers back to what the building once looked like. His view from the night he peeked in the window – that of a decrepit, old shell of a grand ballroom – is replaced by an ornate wood paneled room brightly lit with chandeliers and a grand spiral staircase.

    JACK: People came from all around to attend events in this building. They could have been there for daytime conventions or lavish parties at night. But this was the central hub.

    SUSANNAH: How did this building get into disrepair?

    JACK: When this area fell into bad economic times. A couple of major Somerset companies used to have their corporate headquarters here, and there used to be a law firm on the ninth floor.

    SUSANNAH: Law firm, huh? Maybe we can eventually hang our shingle in that building.

    JACK: Who’s we? Are you and Donna planning on branching out into private practice?

    SUSANNAH: Well… that IS what you wanted us to do.

    JACK: Quite right. Anyhow… this building has been vacant for about 20 years, save for a few business going in and out on the ground floor. I’m going to have to sink some money into refurbishing and remodeling the entire building.

    SUSANNAH: I think it can be done. Let’s see what happens.

    As Susannah finishes her coffee, the music plays out of the scene and we find ourselves heading out to residential areas…

    CUT TO – Petterino house

    Rose is at the kitchen counter making zabaglione for Scott, who has agreed to be a guinea pig for her latest tweaking of a dessert recipe.

    ROSE: (Holding out spoon) Care to taste now?

    SCOTT: (Taking sample and licking lips) Thumbs up, Rose. You’ve done it again.

    ROSE: I always like you coming out here when I’m preparing my dessert items. You always tell me when they’re made perfectly or whether they need a little something.

    SCOTT: I figure I could put my time in doing this while helping Giovanni nurse the fact his children are getting older.

    Rose chuckles as she takes the zabaglione to the counter and continues preparing the mixture.

    ROSE: Is he giving you a hard time about it?

    SCOTT: Naa. Rose, it’s understandable. Annabella is facing 30 and she’s doing it very well and Tori is having fun of her own finishing up school and embarking on a nursing career.

    ROSE: Then there’s Johnny running his restaurant in Denver.

    SCOTT: Doesn’t talk about Johnny much, does he?

    ROSE: Not really. And it isn’t anything bad that Johnny did. I think it’s because Johnny is out of the house. Out of sight, out of mind. I’m worried that Giovanni won’t acknowledge Annabella or Tori by seeing their new places when they get them.

    SCOTT: What I don’t understand is why. Giovanni’s always been such a good family man. Or is he worried that the family is splinting?

    ROSE: One word, Scott.

    SCOTT: And that word is?

    ROSE: Grandpa.

    Scott’s eyes get a puzzled look as the music plays out the scene and the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    BILL WOLFF: The first part of Somerset was brought to you by Old Spice. Old Spice is the deodorant embraced by generations old and young. We’ll continue with the second part of Somerset following station identification.

    ANNOUNCER: Casey Hughes is back, but he feels lost in Oakdale. A New World Turns, new to the MySonTV lineup weekdays.

    Music plays over a still picture of the Somerset logo.

    SCENE THREE

    FADE IN – Giovanni’s

    Nick has just finished his budget meeting and is checking his work voicemail. He happens upon the call from Jack so he rings up the office.
    Cutting back to Martin Enterprises, we see Jack pick up the phone.

    JACK: Thanks, Joanne. (A click on the other end, presumably Joanne hanging up) Nicholas! Thanks for getting back so quickly.

    NICK: You’re welcome. I’m a bit puzzled. Didn’t I tell you the Peoples Building was in the hands of a holding company?

    JACK: It may not be. I’m with Susannah and she said the last known owner of the building was D. Whitehead and Associates. I used to do business with the company but it went bankrupt in the last recession.

    NICK: Are you thinking its properties were parceled out in court?

    JACK: It could very well be. Nick, you weren’t city manager six years ago but obviously you can tell if the city bought the building at a bankruptcy sale or something.

    NICK: Well, it’s worth checking out. I’ll get right on it. (Jack says something off-camera) You bet, thanks. I’ll be in touch.

    Nick hangs up, puts his cell phone away and heads back to the bar. Annabella has just come out with someone’s order but she returns to the bar and rests her arms on the counter.

    ANNABELLA: I’m all ears, Nick. What have you got to say?

    NICK: When do you want to move?

    ANNABELLA: Probably within the next month. It all hinges on finding a roommate.

    NICK: (Smiles) What would you say if I told you I had someone in mind?

    ANNABELLA: I’d be interested.

    NICK: Good. It just so happens my friend Donna is looking for someone to share an apartment with when she comes back to Somerset.

    ANNABELLA: Is this the mystery woman that had you perplexed for weeks?

    NICK: The one and only. Still have the bump on my head to prove it.

    ANNABELLA: I’ll have to meet Donna, but from what I hear she sounds like a sweetie.

    NICK: She is.

    ANNABELLA: You’re biased.

    NICK: And that’s a terrible thing to be if you’re a politician, but not in this case. With your earnings and what Donna will be making, you guys could go condo and have a high-rise.

    ANNABELLA: I have thought about that. I haven’t told Dad, but Jack’s filled me in on some nice properties in the north part of downtown.

    NICK: I wouldn’t tell Giovanni. He’d go nuts.

    Annabella laughs as the music plays out and into the next scene…

    CUT TO – Cleypool mansion living room

    George is studying a folder as Fenwick comes in to alert him.

    FENWICK: Master Cleypool, your caller is on the line.

    GEORGE: Ah, good. Thank you, Fenwick.

    As Fenwick leaves the room, George picks up the phone and sits at his desk.

    GEORGE: About time you got back with me. Can you come over to the estate sometime today? (Smiles) Ah, yes. I’ll make it worth your trouble.

    George smiles as sinister music plays out into commercial. The picture fades out.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE FOUR

    FADE IN – Petterino kitchen

    SCOTT: Grandpa – oh. I get it. Is he afraid of becoming one?

    ROSE: On the contrary. He would love to spoil grandkids rotten, but none of the children are in any position to do it for him.

    SCOTT: And HOW long do you guys have to enjoy retirement?

    ROSE: Precisely. I’ve told him that. But he wants to make sure that the kids are in the right position in life. I think it’s why he and I give you such a hard time about Bella.

    SCOTT: Sure it is. (Laughs)

    ROSE: Well, Bella has her head screwed on right when it comes to a social calendar. I don’t know if I can say the same about Tori.

    SCOTT: Why not?

    ROSE: For starters, she’s kind of seeing Zachary Cleypool.

    SCOTT: (Eyes widen) Ah, an interesting choice of boyfriends indeed.

    ROSE: They’re not quite boyfriend and girlfriend yet, but they’re getting there.

    SCOTT: And your attitude is not good about it, I presume?

    ROSE: (Laughs) You think? Bella asked me if George and I had an affair and it ended badly and I told her no way. I just can’t fathom how George treats people and I’m afraid he’d be all over those two.

    SCOTT: Maybe not. You don’t know.

    CUT TO – Cleypool mansion living room

    George is still on the phone with his mystery caller.

    GEORGE: Listen, I’ll be in touch to set up a meeting time. But I’m wondering if you’re ready to cause havoc in Somerset for some people.

    Looking down at the picture, he adds one more line.

    GEORGE: Well, one in particular.

    As the camera slowly zooms in on the photo of Zachary and Victoria, the music carries the program out to a commercial and Somerset shuts down for the day.

    Credits rolling

    BILL WOLFF: Fashions by Junior Gallery. Jewelry by Swarovsky Design Group.

    Join us each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. And stay tuned for Salem Lives, coming up next over most of these SONBC stations.

    This program was recorded.



×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

By using this site, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

  I accept