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sungrey

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  1. sungrey
    SOMERSET EPISODE 27
    Original airdate: 08/21/07
    Written by: Steve Ungrey

    SCENE ONE
    Annabella is taking care of some empty glasses and a few plates at Giovanni’s as the evening rush has concluded. Scott walks in and sits down at the bar.

    Annabella notices Scott and runs over behind the bar.

    ANNABELLA: Hey, you. (Kisses Scott on the cheek) In for your usual?

    SCOTT: I had a meeting with a couple of my fellow lieutenants tonight. Jack is wondering about putting a security detail around the Peoples Building.

    ANNABELLA: Why would Jack want…

    SCOTT: I don’t know. All I know is he’s willing to pay for it. I think he’s starting to put the pieces together for his X Project, so he’s wanting nothing but the best.

    ANNABELLA: Hopefully so. What’ll you have?

    SCOTT: A menu, for starters. (Takes menu) I am famished.

    ANNABELLA: I can tell you about our specials…

    SCOTT: How about a plate of your dad’s famous rigatoni?

    ANNABELLA: With a cold one? (Tapping keys at the computer to input order)

    SCOTT: You got it. (Sets down menu)

    ANNABELLA: (Drawing beer) I’m so glad you stopped by tonight. I’ve been kind of in a funk all day.

    SCOTT: Well, allow me to draw you out of it.

    ANNABELLA: I wish you could. Can you talk to Mom for me?

    Scott takes the beer, with a look on his face like Annabella has just asked him a loaded question.

    CUT TO: The hospital nurses lounge, where Alana is resting on the couch with a thermometer in her mouth. Victoria enters.

    ALANA: (Takes out thermometer) Hey, Tori.

    VICTORIA: (Turns) Oh, hey. (Notices thermometer) Coming down with something?

    ALANA: There’s a bug floating around the hospital – some late summer bug, I guess – and I think I’m getting a small fever.

    VICTORIA: How small is small?

    ALANA: (Looks) 99.3. I guess that’s not bad.

    VICTORIA: If you call that a fever, I guess.

    Alana laughs as the opening notes of the Somerset theme play.

    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 the easy, breezy, beautiful cosmetics of Cover Girl… and by Crisco Oil, for fried foods that are practically grease free.

    SCENE TWO
    We see the exterior of the Petterino house at night… inside, Rose is looking at TV when Giovanni enters.

    GIOVANNI: Buongiorno, bellissimo.

    ROSE: (Rises from the chair and walks over to entrance) I thought you’d never get here. (Kisses Giovanni)

    GIOVANNI: I take it the girls are gone for the night?

    ROSE: Annabella is at the restaurant helping out and it’s Tori’s shift at the hospital. Odds are neither will be home for a while.

    GIOVANNI: Did you eat?

    ROSE: Yes. I didn’t know what time you’d be home. How was Albany?

    GIOVANNI: Come sit, I’ll tell you all about it.

    As Giovanni and Rose make their way back toward the living room, Giovanni begins to talk about the trip.

    GIOVANNI: We ate on the way back… I got a couple good recipes for the restaurant… and it was a worthwhile seminar. I’d like to think about making improvements to the place down the line.

    ROSE: You should see about remodeling parts of the building.

    GIOVANNI: I have thought about it. It’s going to take some money, but it shouldn’t be too bad of an expenditure. Anyways… I took an awful lot away from that seminar. We all did.

    ROSE: Good to hear, honey. It sounds like the trip was worth the day away from town.

    GIOVANNI: It was. I cleared my head… yet all I could think about was getting back home to you… especially if no one was home.

    ROSE: Well then, hold on a second. (Disappears into kitchen)

    Giovanni shakes his head and checks the mail out, as Rose reappears with a bottle of wine and two glasses.

    GIOVANNI: You want to taste test here?

    ROSE: Uh-uh. (Motions upstairs)

    GIOVANNI: I’m right behind you. (Kisses Rose as she turns and heads up the stairs)

    The music plays to change the scenes as the action goes back to Giovanni’s. Scott is drinking beer as Annabella is wiping down part of the bar.

    SCOTT: What did Rose do now?

    ANNABELLA: You should have seen Mom come down on Victoria earlier today because Tori went out last night for drinks with someone.

    SCOTT: Wait a second… Tori actually went on a date last night?

    ANNABELLA: I’ll call Mike and have it put in the Register. (Nods in sarcasm) She went out with Zachary Cleypool.

    SCOTT: (Face turns serious) Ohhhh. And Rose didn’t approve?

    ANNABELLA: It’s almost like she’s hiding something – like maybe she and George had an affair –

    SCOTT: You can’t be serious, can you?

    ANNABELLA: No, I’m not serious. (Laughs) I’m just trying to figure out why Mom is so dead-set against the Cleypools. Besides the business with Jack Martin, I mean.

    SCOTT: I’ve had my share of dealings with Zachary… he’s got a bit of the smugness his dad has in him, but otherwise I’ve never had reason to believe Zachary is anything but a decent person.

    ANNABELLA: That’s the whole thing. That’s what I’m trying to tell Mom…

    SCOTT: You actually want me to talk to her?

    ANNABELLA: No, I was just kidding. (Changes subject) Now, Dad on the other hand…

    Scott laughs as the picture fades to black and the music plays into commercial.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    S.T.E.A.M. launches a big surprise today as the identity of Mona is revealed. Don’t miss this gripping episode, complete with a shocking twist at the end. S.T.E.A.M., 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 Dreft. Dreft is the only detergent that gets clothes of all babies’ ages clean and soft, without bleaching.

    SCENE THREE
    Alana is on the couch at the hospital as Tori is taking a break for coffee. Alana sits up and drinks water.

    VICTORIA: How do you feel?

    ALANA: Better, thanks. I hope I’m not coming down with something bad. I’d hate to be away from this place for a long time.

    VICTORIA: Heaven forbid you might have to rest a while?

    ALANA: Now, I don’t spend all my life here…

    VICTORIA: Then how much? Remember what we were talking about earlier with you and Mike?

    ALANA: I remember. I’m definitely keeping an eye out on that.

    VICTORIA: Good. Hey, Zachary hasn’t stopped by here, has he?

    ALANA: I haven’t seen him. Then again, I’ve been resting a bit in here. I’m sort of on call this evening, so I’m able to catch a little shut-eye or rest in between patients.

    VICTORIA: How long have you been here?

    ALANA: Since 9 this morning…

    VICTORIA: Alana! Get the heck out of here before you find yourself in a hospital bed…

    ALANA: I’m heading home in the next couple of hours. I’ve got tomorrow off before I come in here at night, so I’m taking advantage of it.

    VICTORIA: Good. I’ll head out and let you know if you’re needed.

    ALANA: Good to hear. (Victoria leaves)

    Alana is feeling better, but she puts the thermometer back in her mouth for good measure. She notices it says 100.2.

    Standing up, we see the camera from her perspective swaying a bit. Alana is feeling a little dizzy and almost loses her balance.

    ALANA: (Sits back down and reaches into her purse for cold tablets) Overwork. (Reaches for water) Tori’s right, Alana. Get the hell out of here while you still have a life.

    Alana slugs down water and stretches her neck out before turning on her on-call buzzer and catching a bit of shuteye.

    CUT TO: Upstairs at the Petterinos. Giovanni and Rose are in bed having just finished a round of lovemaking, and Rose reaches for her wine glass.

    ROSE: That was a fine idea I had, wasn’t it? (Kisses Giovanni, sips her wine and rests her head on Giovanni’s shoulder)

    GIOVANNI: Best welcome home I had in years. (Smiles at Rose) I should go away more often.

    ROSE: Not a chance, Giovanni. I couldn’t let you get away for longer than a day or two without me tagging along.

    GIOVANNI: If I could ever get Annabella to commit to running the restaurant maybe we could get away.

    ROSE: You know that’s a sore subject with her now.

    GIOVANNI: Well, I had a blast from the past last night that took me back years. I told ya Jack stopped by, right?

    ROSE: Yes. You said he seemed a little restless.

    GIOVANNI: He was. He brought up the Delaney Brands Christmas parties.

    ROSE: (Gets a strange look on her face and turns toward Giovanni) Those parties? God, that was a long time ago.

    GIOVANNI: And you were just as gorgeous back then. I still recall that velvet dress you wore to that party in 1975.

    ROSE: You’ve got that good a memory, huh?

    GIOVANNI: No, it was just an eventful night, that’s all. (Pauses) And I think Jack’s been thinking an awful lot about that lately.

    ROSE: Is that why he’s ready to finally unveil the X Project?

    GIOVANNI: He could be. I can’t wait, that’s for sure.

    ROSE: Indeed.

    As she sips her wine, Rose thinks back to the party itself and shakes her head at all the memories of long ago. The picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE FOUR
    Back at the restaurant, Annabella is venting to Scott about her father while Scott is munching on rigatoni.

    ANNABELLA: He thinks I’m ready to chuck my modeling career and retire from the profession and I don’t think I’m ready yet.

    SCOTT: Annabella, it’s what makes you happy. No one else. If you’re not ready to settle into a business rhythm yet, so be it.

    ANNABELLA: (Finishes wiping off the countertop) Thank you for stopping by. It’s not very often I get to vent to my family.

    SCOTT: Ah. (Bites rigatoni) So I’m your scratching post, huh?

    ANNABELLA: No, you’re a good friend. (Leans in to kiss Scott on the cheek) I think I’ll talk to Dad about whether or not I’m ready to commit.

    Scott continues eating, aware he may have opened a can of worms with his rigatoni, as the music plays and the picture fades to black. Following commercials, the Somerset theme and credits roll.

    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.

  2. 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.

  3. sungrey
    The music plays in the background as we open the 25th episode of Somerset in the nurses’ lounge at Somerset Hospital. We see a half-dressed Victoria emerge from the bathroom, as she is changing out of her nurse uniform to meet Zachary for a drink.

    Taylor enters the room and catches Victoria looking at herself in the mirror.

    TAYLOR: The mirror isn’t going to crack, you know.

    VICTORIA: (Turns around and smiles) Who said it would?

    TAYLOR: You’d best get yourself together in a hurry, because your date’s here.

    VICTORIA: What? (Looks at clock) I told him 10:30! Which… it is right now. I’d best get in there and finish up. Stall him, would you?

    TAYLOR: Aye aye, captain. (Salutes Victoria humorously)

    Taylor walks back out where Zachary is standing and engages him in conversation.

    ZACHARY: She’s not ready, is she?

    TAYLOR: Close, Zach. Close.

    ZACHARY: I know she probably had a hard day here, but…

    Victoria emerges from the nurses’ lounge, all dressed and hair fixed up. Taylor shoots her a look as if to say “how did you do that so quickly”.

    VICTORIA: Was someone talking about me? (Goes over to Zachary) Hi there. Been waiting long?

    ZACHARY: Naa, a few minutes. All set?

    VICTORIA: You bet. Where did you want to grab a drink? Have you eaten?

    ZACHARY: Yeah, I figured dinner would be too late, but we can always snack on something if you’d like.

    VICTORIA: I know where we can go. Follow me.

    The two leave the fourth floor nurses’ area, leaving Taylor behind still wondering about how Victoria pulled off the Houdini act.

    CUT TO:
    The scene changes to Jack’s condo, where Jack is on the couch taking a nap. As the camera pulls in closer, we can see a dream sequence is about to unfold.
    In the dream, Jack, looking considerably younger, is wearing a tuxedo and smiling. We can’t see who, if anyone, he is looking at… we hear piano notes, which turn out to be the opening notes of “Could It Be Magic” by Barry Manilow.

    As the music plays, we see Jack holding up a glass of champagne and the background unfold. It is darkly lit, but it appears to be a balcony with a sweeping ballroom below.

    Before we can see any more, the dream ends, and Jack’s eyes flutter open. Jack rises from the couch and silently shakes his head.

    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 Gleem, the toothpaste for adults. Fights cavities and freshens adult bad breath… and by the moist, delicious desserts of Duncan Hines.

    SCENE TWO
    A brightly-lit boat is shown on the waterfront. This is The Riverboat Club, our first glimpse at one of Somerset’s hot spots. Inside, Zachary and Victoria have taken a table seat on one of the elevated platforms and are waiting for a waitress.

    ZACHARY: You look very nice, by the way.

    VICTORIA: Thanks. I love seeing Taylor get all confused like that.

    ZACHARY: Why, what happened?

    VICTORIA: Well… a guy wouldn’t understand these things, but about a minute before Taylor came out to see you I was half-dressed. I was still deciding what I wanted to wear.

    ZACHARY: Well, you wear it well.

    VICTORIA: It’s the demure look, right?

    ZACHARY: Hey, as long as you’re sitting in front of me, I don’t mind.

    VICTORIA: (Looks down) You’re getting along fabulously on the ankle, by the way.

    ZACHARY: It’s healing nicely. No more motorcycles for me for now… at least not until this heals. Even then I’ll be careful.

    VICTORIA: You just better.

    A waiter comes up to the table.

    WAITER: Evening. What’ll we have tonight?

    ZACHARY: What’s on tap, thanks.

    VICTORIA: Tom Collins.

    WAITER: Right away. (He walks off)

    ZACHARY: (Looks at Victoria) I didn’t picture you as a gin girl.

    VICTORIA: Well, maybe I have a hell-raising side and you don’t know it, now do you?

    ZACHARY: Guess I’ll have to find out.

    Victoria smiles as the music plays and the scene changes.

    CUT TO:
    Giovanni’s, where Jack is coming in and sitting at the bar. After a couple seconds, Giovanni emerges from the back and sees Jack.

    GIOVANNI: Buona sera, Jack. (Shakes hand) Welcome to Giovanni’s!

    JACK: Buona sera to you too.

    GIOVANNI: I didn’t think I’d see you out late like this. Aren’t you usually up in the condo by now?

    JACK: Ahh, I don’t melt if I’m out after 10.

    GIOVANNI: Have you eaten?

    JACK: Yeah, earlier tonight. I just came for a scotch.

    GIOVANNI: (Nods head) I figured you still drank the stuff. Over 30 years and you haven’t changed a bit.

    JACK: I just had a memory tonight that jogged my mind.

    GIOVANNI: I always thought your mind was sharp as a tack. (Pours scotch and serves it) Thinking back in time to make sure you don’t go sour on us?

    JACK: Ahh, yes. (Drinks from glass) Smooth as silk. (Smiles) Remember the Delaney Brands Christmas parties?

    GIOVANNI: (Appears surprised) How the heck could I forget? They were lavish affairs. I even catered one of them while I was dating Rose.

    JACK: And you two made a really cute couple. No, I was just thinking about the past because I think I’m about ready to release my details on the X Project.

    Giovanni appears surprised that Jack is finally ready to talk. The music builds as the camera closes in on Giovanni’s face… the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    Return to Santa Barbara… a new version of the hugely popular 1980s soap opera. Get your Capwell fix once again 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 Ivory Soap, the soap without a lot of extra ingredients. For a pure and natural kind of clean, lather up with Ivory.

    SCENE THREE

    We pick back up at Petterino’s, where Giovanni is surprised to hear Jack talk about the project.

    GIOVANNI: You’re finally ready to commit to this?

    JACK: Yes. I’m going to talk to Nick Barclay and Mike Wagner next week to let them in. Are you with me?

    GIOVANNI: Through thick and thin. (Shakes his hand) Refill?

    JACK: One more for the road. (Laughs) Now how many times have I heard that before?

    GIOVANNI: I’m just happy to hear you finally talking about the project in concrete terms. Rose said you had all these dreams about restoring Somerset to glory.

    JACK: Dreams I intended on pursuing. (Drinks scotch) It’s just that I needed something to get my mind going.

    GIOVANNI: And you found it?

    JACK: Let’s just say… it came to me in a dream.

    As Jack sips his scotch, Giovanni has a puzzled look on his face… and then he slowly gets what Jack is talking about.

    CUT TO: The area by Somerset Hospital, as Victoria and Zachary have come back from The Riverboat Club to the hospital entrance.

    ZACHARY: I hope you had fun tonight.

    VICTORIA: I did. (Pauses) And next time, I buy the drinks.

    ZACHARY: (Looks surprised) So I didn’t scare you off?

    VICTORIA: Are you kidding? It takes an awful lot more to scare off Tori Petterino than just a guy offering drinks.

    ZACHARY: Well then… I’d say tonight was a success.

    VICTORIA: I’d agree. Let’s hope the second time is a charm.

    Zachary and Victoria smile as the music plays and the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE FOUR
    Back at the hospital, Zachary is smiling and looking at Victoria.

    ZACHARY: You really did look nice tonight. It was fun seeing Taylor’s face when you walked out all dressed and ready to go.

    VICTORIA: I’ll have to do that again next time we go out for drinks. Heck, maybe we can go all out and splurge for dinner.

    ZACHARY: I’ll hold you to that, then.

    VICTORIA: And you too. Good night.

    Zachary leans in and gently kisses Victoria on the cheek. She returns the favor… and the two share a slight peck on the lips. Obviously, the two want to take it one step further, but both are a little gun-shy.

    As Zachary walks away, Victoria covers her cheek with her hand and touches her lips. Like a giddy teenager, she walks into the hospital with a spring in her step.

    CUT TO:
    Jack is walking home and he happens to stop by The Peoples Building. He looks up with a wistful eye at the building and its weathered exterior. He then sees a window, half covered over in dust. He peeks inside, just as a cop car flashes its lights.

    OFFICER: Stop right there…

    JACK: Officer… (holds up hands) I look in peace.

    OFFICER: (Squints) Jack Martin? What brings you out here?

    JACK: I was walking by. No malicious intent.

    OFFICER: Okay. Just checking because that’s private property.

    JACK: I know. I had no intention of setting foot inside.

    OFFICER: Don’t worry about it. I trust you. Have a good night.

    JACK: You too.

    As Jack walks past the building, the camera peeks back at the window and then closes in on the window, as if to go inside the building.

    The interior of the building has fallen into extreme disrepair, but as the camera pans around it’s easy to make out features. The final notes of “Could It Be Magic” play as the camera looks around…

    And it’s obvious this was a ballroom at one point with a balcony – the same ballroom in Jack’s dream.

    As the final note plays, the picture fades to black. The Somerset logo and credits roll 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.

  4. 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.

  5. sungrey
    The 23rd episode of Somerset opens up with Victoria at home in the Petterino kitchen, reading a magazine while drinking a cup of coffee. The music softly plays in the background as Victoria flips pages. We hear a knock on the door.

    VICTORIA: Coming… hold on… (Opens door to see Alana) Hey there! In the neighborhood, I take it?

    ALANA: I figured you brought ice cream to me, so I’d return the favor. Only I didn’t have any ice cream in the refrigerator.

    VICTORIA: (Pointing below) What’s in the bag, then?

    ALANA: Chocolates.

    VICTORIA: Oh God, get in here. (Laughs) You’re going to wreck my diet, what’s left of it.

    ALANA: What’s a few chocolates between friends? (Looks around) Where the heck is everybody?

    VICTORIA: Mom and Dad have a night off, believe it or not… Dad took Mom up to the overlook area. Annabella is at the restaurant helping out so they could have a night free.

    ALANA: Well, isn’t she the generous sister!

    VICTORIA: I’d have gone down there, except I worked earlier today so I thought I’d take advantage of the peace and quiet.

    ALANA: Until I wrecked it.

    VICTORIA: Don’t be silly. (Waves hand off at her) You’re family. Now let’s dig into these chocolates before they melt.

    (Laughing, the two open up a box and nibble on the contents. The music plays in the background as the scene switches over to the scenic overlook.)

    We see several cars parked at the scenic area, overlooking downtown Somerset. The camera slowly pans in on Giovanni’s dark blue sedan, with he and Rose in the back seat.

    ROSE: Mmmm. This was a great idea you had, honey.

    GIOVANNI: Leave it to the signorina. Victoria’s the one who came up with this idea.

    ROSE: (Leans in and whispers) I think she just wanted to get us out of the house.

    GIOVANNI: She knows we haven’t had a lot of free time lately. (Leans in and kisses Rose)

    ROSE: Careful… I think this is how we conceived Annabella…

    GIOVANNI: (Puzzled) In the back of a car? Are you sure?

    ROSE: I’m trying to recall…

    GIOVANNI: Hey, at least we were married… (kisses Rose) How long did we come up here before the restaurant got in the way?

    ROSE: It’s been a while.

    GIOVANNI: And I think Bella’s looked forward to running the show for a night. (Kisses Rose) I can only hope that she changes her mind and decides to join us full time as a manager.

    Rose finishes kissing Giovanni and pulls back slightly, shaking her head…

    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 Zest, the deodorant bar that rinses you cleaner than soap. And by Dawn Plus… the only dish detergent that gets grease out of the way and leaves your hands soft and smooth.

    SCENE TWO

    In the car up on the scenic overlook, Rose is still shaking her head.

    GIOVANNI: I don’t like it when you get that look on your face.

    ROSE: It’s not a look, Giovanni. It’s just telling you that you still don’t get it.

    GIOVANNI: I don’t get what… I don’t get women? I’d like to think I mastered the art of that by now.

    ROSE: You might have. But you still don’t get that Annabella wants to continue her modeling career.

    GIOVANNI: She’s made how much money about now?

    ROSE: And saved every penny of it, pretty much. The sports car is about the only perk she’s afforded herself. I still think she has the looks to pull it off, so I don’t think we should interfere.

    GIOVANNI: How much longer can we run the restaurant before we want the break?

    ROSE: Bella will be ready in due time. She’s expressed an interest in taking over the property when we’re ready to step back. Trust her.

    GIOVANNI: I was afraid you were going to say that, my dear. (Leans in and kisses Rose)

    ROSE: You know me very well, don’t you? Enough to stay married to you over 30 years.

    GIOVANNI: And hopefully many, many more where that came from if I have anything to say about it.

    As Giovanni and Rose continue to snuggle in the back seat, the music plays and the scene switches back to the Petterino kitchen. Victoria is sampling a chocolate bar and her eyes are closed.

    VICTORIA: Alana Singleton, I’ll never forgive you for this.

    ALANA: We’ll all go have a workout at lunch tomorrow. Anyhow… (changes subject) What’s this I hear about you finally breaking down and saying yes to some guy?

    VICTORIA: (Looks a bit surprised) Was this why you brought the chocolates over… to talk me out of this?

    ALANA: Not at all. It just is a bit shocking coming from you… Miss I Can’t Have Anyone In The Way of My Career?

    VICTORIA: You know that’s not true. I never really had the chance to entertain anyone like the proposal Zachary gave me… and besides, it’s just…

    ALANA: Wait a minute. Zachary… Cleypool?

    VICTORIA: Well… yeah.

    ALANA: Are you nuts?

    The camera focuses in on Victoria, who has a surprised expression on her face as the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    Now SONBC features programming devoted to past and present soap operas, including Guiding Light, The Brotherhood… a celebration of TV’s longest running daytime drama. All part of the new SONBC lineup. Also check out MySONTV, with original entries such as Point Palace and Novi.

    SCENE THREE
    Nick is on the couch at his apartment when he hears the doorbell. Getting up and gingerly walking over to the door, he sees Mike there with beer.

    NICK: Nice. Wagner, you know I can’t drink.

    MIKE: Read the label.

    NICK: (Takes bottle and scans it) Oh, thanks! Non-alcoholic… I feel like I’m sneaking a drink from the kitchen or something… come on in.

    MIKE: Thanks. That won’t affect your prescription, will it?

    NICK: Actually, I took the last of it earlier today. Patrick gave me a clean bill of health and he told me I’m back to normal.

    MIKE: Watch out, Somerset. (Laughs and twists off the cap) Here you go. I come bearing gifts and a brochure.

    NICK: What type of brochure? (Takes it from Mike and his face crinkles) Somerset’s Bid for Bachelors and Bachelorettes?

    Mike has a smile on his face as Nick looks at the brochure and then him again.

    CUT TO: The Petterino kitchen, where Alana and Victoria are having a discussion about Zachary.

    VICTORIA: Alana… Zachary is nothing like his dad.

    ALANA: Oh, I know that. Actually, he was a pretty good patient. It was his dad that caused the commotion.

    VICTORIA: All it is we’re doing is meeting for a drink. I get off work tomorrow night around 10 and I’m meeting Zachary at Bernard’s. All we’re going to do is have a drink and maybe a small bite to eat…

    ALANA: Before long it’s dinner, then afterwards…

    VICTORIA: Alana, whoa! If you’re trying to steer me away from Zachary…

    ALANA: I’m not. But remember it’s two for the price of one. If George Cleypool gets wind that his son is dating a hospital nurse…

    VICTORIA: What, so I’m beneath him? Please.

    ALANA: I didn’t mean it that way, Tori. I’m more concerned with what (the Petterinos walk in) your mom and dad will think.

    GIOVANNI: Tori! Something wrong we need to know about?

    Victoria gives Alana a look like “thanks a lot” and smiles at Giovanni and Rose. The picture fades to black and, following commercials, the Somerset theme and credits roll.

    Stay tuned for Salem Lives, coming up next over most of these SONBC stations. Join us again each weekday at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. This program was recorded.

  6. sungrey
    Hey everyone! If you can design opening and closing titles using a program you have, I'd love to hear from you. Episode 23 is the first to feature the changed opening credits for Somerset (the one that Somerset fans might remember most of all from the latter part of the show's run) and I'd like to try to duplicate the opening and/or closing. I do have a credit crawl that can be used for the closing titles and a picture to superimpose the credits over.

    If no one can help, that's fine. It never hurts to ask. The 23rd episode of Somerset is coming up right behind this entry. ENJOY!!
  7. sungrey
    Hey everyone! Before regular episodes of Somerset resume, I thought I'd give the readers a chance to catch up on the month's storylines and allow newbies a chance to see what Somerset was all about before the show starts up again.

    When Somerset premiered July 16, the following occurred:

    Susannah Lucas, the daughter of former Somerset residents Sam and Lahoma Lucas, decided to move to her parents' former hometown to make a fresh start of her life. She had worked in Oklahoma City as a corporate attorney after moving back home from Kansas City several years before. Sam and Lahoma accompanied Susannah to Somerset, where Sam reconnected with Jack Martin, a longtime family friend who was once an executive in training at Delaney Brands under Sam. Jack recounted the story of how he had amassed enough capital through business deals to make a good fortune... but his one bad idea, selling Delaney to an international conglomerate that gutted the firm and moved its headquarters out of its longtime home, put him on bad terms with some people in Somerset.

    Susannah went to work for Jack at Martin Enterprises, his conglomerate, but not before being involved in a near-miss car/motorcycle accident with Zachary Cleypool, the son of George Cleypool, a longtime enemy of Jack's and the head of Cleybank Corporation. Although Zachary tried to tell his father that the accident was not Susannah's fault -- and that his broken ankle was the result of him bumping into a hospital bed -- George would hear nothing of it and proceeded to dig up an old copy of a Kansas City newspaper. A mystery figure planted the paper at Susannah's condo, and when she found it the paper triggered some unpleasant memories. Susannah, who is suffering from undisclosed nightmares, has spent time with family friend Patrick Kurtz, the son of former Somerset doctors Stanley and Teri Kurtz. Patrick is now a doctor at Somerset Hospital.

    One of Patrick's staff nurses, Alana Singleton, has been slow to hit the dating circuit once again following a breakup with Nick Barclay, her boyfriend of two years whose upwardly mobile political career caused clashes between Alana and himself. Nick and Alana have since mended fences and become good friends, but Alana is still unsure whether she wants to have a social life in addition to her career. Alana has been good-naturedly fighting off the advances of Mike Wagner, a metro reporter at The Somerset Register, but Alana is wondering if she indeed has feelings for Mike.

    Alana is like a family member to the Petterinos, a hard-working Italian family who own Petterino's Restaurant, Somerset's premier Italian dining destination. Giovanni and Rose, who were college sweethearts, consider Alana a surrogate daughter, and Alana and fellow nurse Victoria Petterino are great friends. Victoria says she has no ill feelings toward eldest daughter Annabella, a successful fashion supermodel who makes trips between Somerset and Italy but keeps her modeling career private and away from the USA. Alana is trying to make Victoria realize she has strikingly attractive looks as well and that she's broken a lot of hearts over the years by not allowing love into her life. Victoria may be on the verge of a breakthrough there, however, as Zachary's rehab at the hospital has put him in close contact with Victoria. What Victoria isn't aware of is George has plans for the entire neighborhood that includes Petterino's -- sinister plans that even Zachary may have trouble swallowing.

    Nick is keeping a secret for Jack about a top-secret project Jack is working on that involves an urban renewal of some of Somerset's longtime buildings; one building in particular, The Peoples Building, is catching Jack's eye, but the reasons why aren't known as of yet.

    Nick is also lost in his own despair following what appears to be a lost encounter during a trip to Washington, D.C. While there attending a convention, he had contact with a young woman at a bar while watching a baseball game. Nick and the woman gave off immediate sparks of chemistry, but she was whisked away by her friends before he could find out basic info like a name and phone number. After his return to Somerset, Nick went so far as to dream that he ran into her at Bernard's, a downtown watering hole; he subsequently fell out of bed during the dream and suffered a slight concussion. Nick is realizing he has to pick up the pieces of his life and focus on his career, but Mike is offering to take a load off Nick's mind by making him part of Somerset's Bid for Bachelors and Bachelorettes, a hospital fundraiser.

    Annabella sneaked back into Somerset one evening, triggering the family's security system before disabling it. She shared a warm reunion with her family and with Scott Garfield, Somerset's police chief. Annabella and Scott became fast friends many years ago when Annabella worked on a community-service project with the Somerset Police, and Annabella was there as a friend when Scott's wife, Julia, died in a car accident. Scott knows that he and Annabella are strictly platonic and only go out as friends; Annabella is happy for that since she herself has a new man in her life that she met over in Italy.

    And there you are. Let's pick up from here, shall we?
  8. sungrey
    (The screen turns white and the music begins playing. The town of Somerset is slowly drawn on screen line-by-line as the music swells to its climax and the picture switches to a daytime view of the skyline, with the Somerset logo)

    This… is Somerset.

    SCENE ONE
    The first scene is a direct pickup from Monday’s episode, as Jack is confronting George at the Cleybank Corporation. Jack has gone there to have it out with George over the newspaper that was sent to Susannah.

    JACK: You know, George, I remember when you wanted someone to knuckle under and drop out of a business deal once.

    GEORGE: It’s happened a lot, Jack, and you know it.

    JACK: And I’ve heard the horror stories. This person was an animal lover. They didn’t like the terms you were asking them to accept, so they backed out of the deal.

    GEORGE: I have business deals breaking apart and coming together every day.

    JACK: True… but not every business deal ends with you putting a dead cat on that person’s doorstep. Luckily it wasn’t theirs.

    GEORGE: (Drawing closer, eyes furrowing) And what the hell are you implying?

    JACK: That you take it personal. When someone wrongs you, heaven help them. When Susannah swerves to avoid hitting your son, it was as bad as her actually hitting him. Therefore you want revenge.

    GEORGE: Oh come on. I have heard enough.

    JACK: (Raises voice) Not quite! I’m not finished with you yet, you son of a…

    GEORGE: Oh, finish that thought, please. I’ve been called worse before.

    JACK: And no doubt by your ex-wife. Or has your daughter Emily chimed in? I seem to recall there is a reason why she stays in New York and doesn’t come visit.

    GEORGE: You want to make it personal, don’t you? (By now George is close to Jack) Tell that to all the Delaney Brands employees you sold down the river when you sold the company to that international firm. You broke the spirit of Somerset.

    JACK: And I don’t deny it was a bad business deal. I even apologized to the citizens of Somerset. Then again, you don’t read the Register, you’re only concerned with what goes on in Kansas City.

    GEORGE: And why the hell would I care about something that happened there?

    JACK: If it rattles someone’s cage and makes them fidgety and nervous, you just love to see that.

    GEORGE: (Turns to go back to the desk) I’ve had enough.

    JACK: You look at me when you’re talking! Our feud is between us. I’ll be goddamned if you involve anyone from my company in it. Now I can’t prove this was your doing, but considering Zachary’s fresh off a motorcycle accident…

    GEORGE: See yourself out.

    JACK: (Walks over by the desk and leans in so George can see his face) Keep this up and maybe Zachary will be spending his free time finding the first flight out of Somerset. Then maybe that Moore mansion will be deserted once again. Maybe you and Fenwick can play shuffleboard on the back terrace.

    Jack walks toward the door and smiles as he turns.

    JACK: Or maybe Fenwick will win a game of backgammon and you’ll push him off the terrace. (Turns and leaves)

    George, visibly shaken, goes back to his desk and sits in the swivel chair. He looks out at Somerset.

    GEORGE: I’ll be damned if you win this round, Jack. Not a chance in hell.

    Sinister music plays as the extended scene fades to black, followed by the Somerset logo.

    Somerset… brought to you today by Sure, the only deodorant that leaves you feeling dry all day, every day… and by All-Temperature Cheer, built to clean in all types of water for the way you wash now. All-Tempa Cheer!

    SCENE TWO
    At Somerset Hospital, Victoria is on duty when Taylor comes up and shuffles some charts into the doctors’ cubicles.

    TAYLOR: That was fun last night. We have to do this more often.

    VICTORIA: Yeah, but like Alana said… I’d be content with us going out on Fridays or something…

    TAYLOR: I know. It was rough doing back-to-back nights at the bar and coming in here to do our shifts. Luckily we got a lot of sleep last night.

    VICTORIA: Thanks for letting me crash at your place.

    TAYLOR: No problem. (She leans her arms on the desk and watches as Victoria is filling out a chart) Everything OK at the house?

    VICTORIA: (Turns and laughs) Oh, come on. Everything’s fine. It’s just that I’m not the drinking and driving type. It kind of got drilled home to me a few years ago that it wasn’t the smartest thing to do. So if I’m going to drink, I’m going to make sure I stay someplace where I can be sober later.

    TAYLOR: Smart thinking. (Phone buzzes) I’ll get that… fourth floor, Nurse Kendrick?

    As Taylor is answering the phone, Victoria sees Zachary coming out of his therapy session. He smiles and comes over.

    ZACHARY: Thank you for keeping me company last night til my friends got there.

    VICTORIA: No problem. I’ve never had a guy buy me two drinks before.

    ZACHARY: So my friends were a little late.

    VICTORIA: (Points down) How’s the ankle?

    ZACHARY: I’ll be fine. I’ll be hobbling around, but everything’s going to be good. Say, about last night…

    VICTORIA: Yeah?

    ZACHARY: I can’t believe I’m going to say this… but would you do me the honor of buying you another drink, this time just the two of us?

    Victoria is surprised by Zachary’s proposal, and the music builds as the camera focuses on Victoria’s face.

    CUT TO – Giovanni’s. Nick is coming in to meet someone for an appointment. His meeting isn’t there yet, however, so he sits at the bar. Rose comes out and notices Nick there.

    ROSE: Hi, Nick. Cocktail?

    NICK: I’m afraid I can’t, Rose. I’ll just take a pop instead.

    ROSE: You got it. On duty?

    NICK: Yeah… waiting for my 10:30 appointment and I’m still taking medication.

    ROSE: Yes, I heard. Through the grapevine – you were hospitalized earlier this week?

    NICK: Small concussion, nothing major. I did something stupid – I fell out of bed.

    ROSE: That’s terrible… you must have packed quite a wallop.

    NICK: No, I’m afraid the nightstand got the better of me. (Laughs) Come to think of it, the floor wasn’t too ginger with me either.

    ROSE: Well, next time, do me a favor and strap yourself in.

    NICK: (Notices Mike coming in) I might have to… my 10:30 is here.

    ROSE: Oh, Mike’s your 10:30? Are you guys going to eat?

    NICK: Probably not, but if you want to make up a basket of chips to munch on or something…

    ROSE: I think I can do that.

    Nick gets up from the bar and gingerly walks over to the table, where Mike has set his stuff down.

    MIKE: You getting around all right?

    NICK: Trying to, at least. Alana was a great help to me when we left the hospital.

    MIKE: Yeah, she filled me in and told me the nurses didn’t let her live it down.

    NICK: (Waves hand) Hey… I hope you know there’s nothing between the two of us.

    MIKE: Oh, I know that. I’ve known it for a while. In fact, I got the pleasure of kissing Alana – albeit briefly – when I celebrated my job promotion yesterday.

    NICK: Did Vickery finally give you the investigative gig?

    MIKE: I got it.

    NICK: Put ‘er there, pal. Now we can dish the secrets of Somerset together.

    The two laugh as the scene draws to a close and the picture fades to black with music playing.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    Have you wanted to write As The World Turns the way you wanted to see it done? Na’Vell Lee is tired of seeing the world turn one way. He wants to see it done HIS way. The result? As Worlds Collide. Coming soon to SONBC.

    SCENE THREE
    Back at the hospital, Victoria has said goodbye to Zachary and come back to the nurses’ desk. For some reason, she looks like she’s still in shock. Taylor notices this and quizzes her about the situation.

    TAYLOR: How’d your meeting with Zachary go?

    VICTORIA: Okay, I guess.

    TAYLOR: Just okay? Girlfriend, spill it.

    VICTORIA: Well… he asked me out for another drink.

    TAYLOR: Oh. Well, we know how that turned out. I can imagine you giving the 100th version of your speech that you’re a career girl, how you can’t spare taking the time away to have some fun…

    VICTORIA: Taylor, that’s not how it worked. (Pauses) I said yes.

    Taylor gets a look of surprise on her face as Victoria can’t believe what she did.

    CUT TO – Cleybank Corporation, where George is in his office as Zachary approaches the door. Zachary stops short of entering, as he can hear George on the phone.

    GEORGE: You did your job, but it wasn’t perfect. She suspected it was me and as a result I got a visit from Jack… oh, he’s going to ratchet the stakes up a bit… well, if he wants to get down and dirty, maybe I’ll start tinkering with the downtown properties a bit. Take Giovanni’s.

    Zachary is listening intently at the door.

    GEORGE: What I could do to that place would make The Godfather look tame.

    The music plays as Zachary realizes he has an interest in Victoria… but it clashes with his dad’s business plans. He leans against the wall and shakes his head.

    The picture fades to black. Following commercials, the Somerset theme plays with the closing credits.

    Join us each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. And on most of these same stations, be sure to watch The Market, the goings on of life at your neighborhood local market.

    This program was pre-recorded.







  9. sungrey
    (The screen turns white and the music begins playing. The town of Somerset is slowly drawn on screen line-by-line as the music swells to its climax and the picture switches to a daytime view of the skyline, with the Somerset logo)

    This… is Somerset.

    SCENE ONE
    The fifth week of Somerset, and the 21st episode, begins back at Bernard’s, where Victoria has just gotten a drink from Zachary.

    VICTORIA: Excuse me, ladies. Now it’s my turn to leave the table for a bit. (She excuses herself and walks in Zachary’s direction as Alana returns)

    ALANA: Are you girls having fun watching the show unfold?

    TAYLOR: Man, what was that all about?

    ALANA: The kiss… oh, I was congratulating Mike. He’s the Register’s new investigative reporter.

    TAYLOR: Nice! (Flashes thumbs up to Mike, who is shown looking in Taylor’s direction and flashing a thumb himself… she turns back to Alana) So you two weren’t making any romantic plans?

    ALANA: Hardly. (She snickers) He’ll be busy at his new job.

    CUT TO: The bar, where Zachary is sitting waiting for his friends.

    VICTORIA: Thanks for the drink… how did you know that’s what I liked?

    ZACHARY: This would be your… second one?

    VICTORIA: (Sheepish look on her face as she grins) You’re very perceptive. You following the nurses for a little TLC or something?

    ZACHARY: I wish. I’m here to meet a couple friends of mine. Care to keep me company while I wait?

    VICTORIA: (Thinks it over and looks at her table, as a couple nurses are smiling) What the heck. (Climbs onto a chair) Sure, count me in.

    Zachary is smiling as Victoria takes a sip of her drink. The music builds and turns a bit eerie, as we show Susannah in her darkened bedroom. She is asleep but once again, it is obvious that she’s having some sort of nightmare.

    In a cold sweat, Susannah awakens and stifles a scream, quickly silencing herself once she sees where she is. She looks at the clock and, resigned to a night of interrupted sleep, lies back on the bed before shutting her eyes.

    The picture fades to black and the Somerset logo reappears.

    Somerset… is brought to you today by fresher than ever Lemon Fresh Joy. For a nice reflection on you and your dishes… and by Coast, the invigorating deodorant soap that’s the eye opener!

    SCENE TWO
    In her bedroom the next morning, Susannah is finishing getting dressed. As she is adjusting earrings, the phone rings.

    SUSANNAH: Figures I’d get these put in… (removes earring to answer the phone) Hello?

    Sam Lucas is on the other end, with Lahoma in the background.

    SAM: Hey, Susie. Did you guys have fun last night?

    SUSANNAH: Oh hey Dad… yeah, Joanne and a couple other women went to The Riverboat Club for a couple drinks and then we went our separate ways for the night. I was back here by 10.

    SAM: Probably a good idea with work the next day…

    SUSANNAH: I’m sorry I didn’t call last night, but when I got in there was something waiting for me. I guess you could call it a welcome present.

    SAM: What’d Stan and Teri do, send you a basket of flowers or something?

    SUSANNAH: Please. I wish it were that pleasant. There was a newspaper waiting for me.

    SAM: Come on. The Register can’t have gotten that bad.

    SUSANNAH: Very funny, Dad. No… it was a Kansas City Star.

    SAM: (Face turns serious) What the hell… who knows your time in Kansas City?

    SUSANNAH: I can think of one person who might want to do a bit of research.

    SAM: Hey, don’t let it get you down. You just keep doing your work and being a good employee at Martin.

    SUSANNAH: Considering it’s just my second day, I don’t think that’ll be a problem. (Checks watch) I’m going to get to the office early and take care of some paperwork.

    SAM: Don’t let me stop you. Have a good day, honey.

    SUSANNAH: You too. I love you, Dad.

    SAM: Mom loves you too. Take care. (Puts down phone)

    LAHOMA: Is everything okay?

    SAM: Not at all. Hold on. (Picks up phone) Yeah, Jack Martin, please.

    CUT TO: Martin Enterprises, where Jack is already at work on a couple projects when the phone rings.

    JACK: (Picks up) Yes, Joanne?... Oh, good, put him on. (Pause) What did Susannah do, complain to you about what a slave driver I am?

    SAM: I wish it were that simple. Susannah got a special delivery last night.

    JACK: What type of delivery? (Pause… his face darkens) Son of a bitch.

    SAM: My sentiments exactly. George is the only one who could have known about Susannah.

    JACK: Well, I’m glad I knew from before… and it wouldn’t have impacted my mind on Susannah.

    SAM: I don’t want to appear like I’m fighting Susie’s battles.

    JACK: Sometimes you have to fight a little unfair. Thanks for letting me know. I’ll take care of this and Susannah won’t have to know a thing.

    SAM: Thank you, Jack. I didn’t call to ask for a favor, so you know.

    JACK: Consider it a little payback for all the time you spent mentoring me. (Pause) OK, Sam. Have a good day.

    As he puts down the phone, Jack gathers his jacket and heads into the outer office.

    JACK: By the way, Joanne, how was the night at the bar with the ladies?

    JOANNE: Not bad. We’re all shut-ins, you know. We have to be home by 8. (Laughs) Just kidding. We were out until about 9:30.

    JACK: All right. Good to see all of you unwinding. I’ve got a special errand I need to run, so if anyone wonders where I am…

    JOANNE: I’ll just tell them you’re out.

    JACK: Good. Promise I’ll be back shortly.

    Joanne says goodbye to Jack and turns back to her desk, picking up a phone call as the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE THREE
    In the Petterino kitchen, Giovanni is enjoying a cup of coffee as Rose is sitting at the kitchen table looking at the previous day’s Register.

    ROSE: Do you really think Jack’s project is going to take off?

    GIOVANNI: I’ll stake my life on it. It’s his preferito progetto. His life’s work. He wants to make sure everything’s perfect on it.

    ROSE: And you?

    GIOVANNI: I’d love nothing more. Do you realize how much more business Giovanni’s could get with a revitalized downtown? Bernard’s? The Riverboat Club? The Finial? All of Somerset could be impacted by this.

    ROSE: Our restaurant is doing very well. For that we should be grateful.

    GIOVANNI: Oh, I’m not saying I’m not grateful. We’ve endured downturns in our industry before.

    (Annabella comes downstairs from her bedroom)

    ANNABELLA: Morning, Mom… Dad… (kisses both)

    GIOVANNI: Bella figlia. Good morning… how was your date last night?

    ANNABELLA: (Gets a look on her face as if to say “unbelievable” and shoots it back at Giovanni) Dad…

    GIOVANNI: (Smiles) Always knew I could get a rise out of you.

    ROSE: Giovanni, honey, you know better than that… (turns to Annabella) how was last night, dear?

    ANNABELLA: A lot of fun. Scott and I played some pool, and I haven’t lost my touch there. We played a few games, had a couple drinks, had fun getting acquainted again…

    ROSE: Scott really appreciates your friendship, you know. He leaned heavily on all of us when Julia died.

    ANNABELLA: And it broke my heart to see him in such pain. Julia’s car crash shook us all up.

    ROSE: Well, all you two have to do is just stay friends. Just because you’re female and he’s a guy doesn’t mean you have to hook up.

    ANNABELLA: (Surprised look on her face) Mother! How do you know the expression?

    ROSE: In my day, honey, they called it a one-night stand. (Breaks out in laughter)

    ANNABELLA: I don’t think that’s what they called it, but I like the fact we’re talking about it and you’re not mad.

    GIOVANNI: Not a chance, honey. We could never be mad at you.

    ANNABELLA: I thought Tori would be here… did she have to work this morning?

    GIOVANNI: Yes, she did. But she did the smart thing… I think she took a change of clothes and everything and crashed at a friend’s house last night. I think her name was Taylor?

    ANNABELLA: Ah yes, Taylor Kendrick. I know who she is. She’s a great person.

    ROSE: Perhaps we could fix Scott up with Taylor?

    ANNABELLA: (Rolls her eyes) Not a chance, mother. Scott’s too straight-laced for Taylor’s tastes. (Laughs) Come to think of it, so am I.

    Rose and Giovanni laugh as Annabella shakes her head. The picture changes to the front office of the Cleybank Corporation. Jack is coming in through the door.

    SECRETARY: Hi, can I help you?

    JACK: I’m here to see George.

    SECRETARY: I’ll check and see if he’s…

    JACK: (Brushes past her) Never mind, I’ll check on him myself.

    SECRETARY: Sir, you can’t go back… (Jack throws open the door) I’m sorry, sir, he just barged right past me.

    GEORGE: That’s all right, Denise. You may go.

    SECRETARY: Thank you.

    GEORGE: (Comes out from behind desk) To what do I owe this pleasure visit?

    JACK: Shall I tell you to cram the pleasantries or would you like to experience me doing it myself?

    GEORGE: Obviously you’re not in a socializing mood.

    JACK: Cut the crap, George. When are you going to learn you can’t get what you want by intimidating others?

    GEORGE: What do you mean?

    JACK: Does the name Susannah Lucas ring a bell?

    George looks at Jack as the music plays. The picture fades to black, followed by the Somerset logo and credits after the last set of commercials.

    Join us each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. And on most of these same SONBC stations, be sure to stay tuned for S.T.E.A.M. This program was recorded.



  10. sungrey
    THIS IS THE EPISODE OF SOMERSET FROM FRIDAY, AUGUST 10. IT IS A NEW ENTRY ON THIS PAGE. Enjoy!

    (The screen turns white and the town of Somerset is slowly drawn on screen line-by-line as the music swells to its climax)

    This… is Somerset.

    SCENE ONE
    The 20th episode opens at the Petterino house. Annabella is looking at herself in a compact mirror as we hear a knock on the door. Annabella rises from the chair and opens the door to find Scott standing there.

    SCOTT: Evening, my dear.

    ANNABELLA: (Hugs Scott) You’re early! Come on in and have a seat. Just checking myself out in the mirror.

    SCOTT: I find that hard to believe that a model would need to check…

    ANNABELLA: (Raises finger) Uh uh, Scott. Don’t even go there… you know I’m a model overseas but here I’m just Annabella, Giovanni’s daughter.

    SCOTT: (Feigns shock) Oh sorry! I plumb forgot.

    ANNABELLA: I’ll just bet you did. I’ll warn you that my pool skills might be a little rusty. I haven’t had much of a chance to play lately.

    SCOTT: Don’t tell me they don’t have pool tables over in Venice.

    ANNABELLA: They do, but when you’re on shoots like mine the first thing you want to do is go back to the hotel and crash.

    SCOTT: Well, remember. Here you’re Annabella, Giovanni’s daughter.

    ANNABELLA: Quite right. (Snaps compact shut) By the way, we might run into Victoria this evening.

    SCOTT: Really? Is she out with her friends?

    ANNABELLA: A few nurses – Taylor, Alana, and a couple others – decided to have another girls’ night out since they had so much fun the other time.

    SCOTT: We could have invited Tori along with us.

    ANNABELLA: I told her to stop on in, but she wanted to give us privacy. I don’t know why.

    SCOTT: Imagine that. (Rolls eyes) Let’s go, shall we?

    Scott puts a hand on Annabella’s shoulder and gently guides her toward the door; the music builds awaiting the scene change.

    CUT TO: Martin Enterprises, where Susannah is hard at work on a file and almost finished with it when the door opens. Joanne is standing there.

    SUSANNAH: Hey, Joanne, what’s going on?

    JOANNE: A couple of us wondered if we could take Martin Enterprises’ newest employee out for a drink. Wanna come?

    SUSANNAH: (Thinks about it) Sure! I could use a break from the humdrum life I’ve had lately. Let me close this file (phone buzzes) and take this quick call.

    JOANNE: Okay. (She stands there as Susannah answers the phone)

    SUSANNAH: Good evening, Susannah Lucas?

    Her father Sam is on the other end of the line, calling from Oklahoma City.

    SAM: (Turns at his desk to face the window) How’s my favorite attorney daughter on her first day at Martin?

    SUSANNAH: Hi, Daddy!

    JOANNE: (Motions outside) Don’t worry. We’ll be outside waiting.

    SUSANNAH: (Thumbs up to Joanne) Checking up on me or something?

    SAM: No, just wondering how your first day as a gainfully employed attorney went.

    SUSANNAH: It was fine. Jack’s got me working on a couple details involving his Project X… he still hasn’t filled me in on what the hell’s going on, though… oh, and Patrick stopped by as I was getting ready this morning.

    SAM: Awfully nice of Patrick to do that.

    SUSANNAH: Yeah. He and I had a quick breakfast before I came to the office… I’m just about to go out with Joanne and a couple of her friends for drinks.

    SAM: Making fast friends at the office already. Hey, don’t let me stop you… I just wanted to call and say hi.

    SUSANNAH: I appreciate the thought. Tell Mom hi, and if I don’t talk to you later tonight I’ll be sure to call in the morning.

    SAM: Thank ya, hon. Love you.

    SUSANNAH: Love you too, Dad.

    As she hangs up, Susannah grabs her purse and shuts out the lights, waiting to join Joanne and her friends. The picture fades to black and the Somerset logo reappears.

    Somerset… is brought to you today by delicious, rich, roasted Folger’s Crystals. The coffee that tastes as rich as it looks… and by Swiffer, the household cleaner that reaches places ordinary cleaners can’t touch.

    SCENE TWO
    At Bernard’s, Alana, Taylor, Victoria and a couple other nurses are sitting around a large table with two pitchers of beer in the center.

    TAYLOR: Great idea you guys had to go out again tonight.

    ALANA: Yeah… only let’s not make it back-to-back nights in the future, OK? Some of us had to work and missed out before.

    TAYLOR: Is it my fault you were watching a patient closely?

    VICTORIA: Careful, Taylor… that’s still a sore spot with Alana.

    ALANA: It’s not a sore spot! (Drinks) Nick and I have become better friends as of late. We’ve gotten over the awkward stage we were in following our breakup.

    TAYLOR: That’s good. (Looks at the bar) Because your other friend just walked in.

    Alana turns to notice Mike at the bar. Mike doesn’t see Alana, but she gets up.

    ALANA: Be right back, ladies. (Goes over with a beer glass to the bar, taps Mike on the shoulder) Hey you…

    MIKE: (Turns) Hi!

    He reaches out, draws Alana close, and gives her a quick kiss. It’s an awkward moment, and the two look at each other a bit strange afterwards.

    Back at the main table, Victoria gets a drink delivered to her at the table, prompting her to look puzzled.

    VICTORIA: (Turns to waitress) I’m sorry, miss… I didn’t order this.

    WAITRESS: I know. Courtesy of the gentleman at the bar.

    Victoria turns to see Zachary sitting there, smiling and waving. She turns back and has a devilish grin on her face.

    CUT TO: Scott and Annabella sharing a game of pool in the back room of Bernard’s. Annabella has just finished putting the 8-ball away, much to Scott’s chagrin.

    SCOTT: Who was it that said they were a little rusty at pool?

    ANNABELLA: I thought I was.

    SCOTT: You could beat Jackie Gleason at this game if he were still alive. You hustler. That’s four games in a row you’ve won!

    ANNABELLA: Oh, so you’re implying I’m a con artist?

    SCOTT: A damn good looking con artist.

    ANNABELLA: (Blushes slightly) Thanks.

    SCOTT: So someone captured your heart in Italy, huh?

    ANNABELLA: Yeah! Kind of a whirlwind romance. He’s back here in the states now and he said he’d look me up when he had a chance.

    SCOTT: You can wait that long?

    ANNABELLA: I’ll try. It won’t be easy. But I’ll try.

    SCOTT: Hey, that’s what you’ve got friends like me for, isn’t it?

    ANNABELLA: I like being with you because you don’t ask questions. You’re not an inquisitive person away from the police station.

    SCOTT: You were there for me after Julia passed away.

    ANNABELLA: Do you think about her often?

    SCOTT: Every time I hear about a car accident in Somerset. I guess that’s why I got on your case last night about driving so quickly to get to Grant’s Preserve.

    ANNABELLA: I fined myself $500 for that. Sent a check off to the Red Cross.

    SCOTT: I’d have fined you less.

    ANNABELLA: Hey, I want to do some good things with the money I earned over in Italy. There’s more where that came from, I tell myself.

    Scott smiles, and Annabella also smiles as she grabs the pool stick for another game.

    ANNABELLA: Maybe this time I’ll let you win.

    The two begin another game of pool as the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE THREE
    Back at the main bar, as Mike pulls away from Alana.

    ALANA: Had a few too many already?

    MIKE: Hey, throw that beer in my face if you want. I’m sorry. I’m just giddy.

    ALANA: Really? (Puts beer down) I’ll spare you the shower then. What’s got you so giddy?

    MIKE: Meet Mike Wagner, the newest investigative reporter at The Register. I got promoted this afternoon.

    ALANA: (Eyes widen) Oh my God! That’s wonderful! In that case…

    Alana reaches in and plants a kiss of her own on Mike. Now it’s Mike’s turn to smile.

    ALANA: Unfortunately, bud, that’s the last kiss you’re getting from me tonight because I’m out with the girls. But I will buy you a cold one if you’d like.

    MIKE: I accept.

    For the first time, we see Mike, hand around Alana’s back, and she really isn’t resisting being by his side.

    CUT TO:
    The outside of Susannah’s condo. Susannah has pulled up after going out with Joanne for a couple drinks, and she swings her legs out to the driveway to get out of the car.

    Walking up the sidewalk, we see Susannah kneel to pick up the Register. She notices the newspaper sticking out of the corner.

    SUSANNAH: Why would a paperboy bury the paper under the floor mat like that?

    She picks up the paper, without noticing the contents, and unlocks the door to go inside.
    Susannah puts the papers on the kitchen counter and turns on the lights, taking off her suit jacket. She sees the Register on the top.

    SUSANNAH: Wonder what’s good in today’s news?

    Susannah picks up the Register… and she sees the old copy of The Kansas City Star underneath. She gasps and puts the Register down over the KC paper.

    SUSANNAH: No… no… it can’t be…

    She sees the KC Star paper there. We hear a fast heart beating, ostensibly Susannah’s, as she gets a terrified look on her face. We cannot see what she is thinking, but it can’t be good. Looking down, she sees her hands trembling.

    Quickly reaching into the refrigerator, she grabs a bottled water and slugs it down to calm her fragile nerves.

    What is in that paper must have scared Susannah… but what is it? The picture fades to black.

    Join us each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset… and on most of these same SONBC stations, be sure to enjoy As Days Go By.

    The preceding program was pre-recorded.
  11. sungrey
    (The screen turns white and the town of Somerset is slowly drawn on screen line-by-line as the music swells to its climax)

    This… is Somerset.

    SCENE ONE
    As the Somerset logo fades, episode 19 begins with a knock on the door at Nick’s apartment. It is the same day as the 18th show, only in the afternoon, and Alana has gone home after catching a morning nap.

    NICK: Coming. (Slowly walking out to the door… he opens the door to see Jack)

    JACK: You really have to stop falling out of bed, you know.

    NICK: Very funny. Come on in. (Turns around and goes toward the kitchen as Jack shuts the door) I’d offer you something to drink, but I can’t have anything with this concussion.

    JACK: Not even coffee?

    NICK: That I can have. There’s a pot on the counter.

    JACK: Don’t mind if I do. (Motions to couch) Get back on the couch, I’ll get your coffee. Now how the heck did you do this again?

    NICK: I’m sure Alana filled you in.

    JACK: Humor me, Nicholas. I was out of commission last night and I’ve been with Susannah most of the morning working on getting her settled at Martin Enterprises.

    NICK: Well, okay. If you insist… (The music builds as Nick starts telling the story to Jack, and the scene changes to Bernard’s Restaurant.)

    Mike has gone to Bernard’s for a beer on his lunch break, and he doesn’t see Norman Vickery there entertaining a client. Norman does, however, see Mike, and he comes over to the bar and taps him on the shoulder.

    MIKE: (Turns around and laughs) Spying on your employees at Bernard’s, Norman?

    NORMAN: (Laughs himself) You’re lucky I’ve got a good sense of humor, Wagner. Actually, I’m here working a source for a possible A-1 story that I’ll hand off once I get more information… but I have been meaning to talk to you regarding another matter.

    MIKE: (Sips beer) Something wrong?

    NORMAN: Oh no no, nothing wrong. Just something long overdue regarding you. I’ll meet you back at the office.
    As Norman returns to his table to entertain his client, Mike finishes his beer with a puzzled look on his face, wondering why Norman would want to see him.

    MIKE: Well, he’s not firing me. What’s up?

    (The music builds as the picture fades to black, followed by the Somerset logo coming on screen)

    Somerset… is brought to you today by Lilt. The only home permanent with gripper sponges… the way to shiny, beautiful hair. And by Cascade, the dishwashing detergent that leaves your dishes spotless and shiny.


    SCENE TWO
    At the Cleybank Corporation, George is in a conference call with some investors regarding his plans for Somerset’s downtown renovation. As he is talking, a few voices have questions.

    GEORGE: You have the documents in front of you, all of you should be looking at the page marked “Five-Year Renovation”.

    VOICE #1: I have to tell you, George… your plan for Somerset has plenty of changes in it.

    VOICE #2: A lot of restaurants that are popular would be affected by this.

    GEORGE: They will get the chance for buyouts. But I’m only offering one deal. If they don’t take the deal, they’ll pay the consequences.

    VOICE #1: I’d hate to hear the consequences, but go ahead.

    GEORGE: This vision of Somerset has to stand. The Peoples Building, the Woodruff, the old Somerset Inn, those restaurants…

    VOICE #3: You’d better have a good explanation for the Somerset Inn’s owner. That’s a historic landmark. They renovated the property several years ago and it has attracted a lot of attention.

    GEORGE: I’ll deal with that later. Maybe our company takes over the hotel and quietly does what we want to do with it.

    VOICE #2: Why the interest in The Peoples Building, George?

    GEORGE: (Rises from his chair and looks out on Somerset) Why not? When I’m done with this town, it’s going to look a lot different. The area’s been stagnant for far too long.

    VOICE #3: This area snapped back pretty well after the last recession, George. The economy is still humming along quite nicely.

    VOICE #1: You’re not feeling the pinch of the housing market. Most of the houses in Somerset are selling for relative bargains.

    GEORGE: (Begins to wonder about his team) Look, are you all nuts? I thought I had a team that was behind my vision of Somerset. Instead, I’m getting questions about whether or not you think I’m competent enough to pull this off.

    VOICE #2: No one’s saying that, George. We know you’ve got it in for Jack Martin. You want to see your vision for Somerset implemented before his.

    GEORGE: You’re right. (Turns from window and smiles) I do.

    As the music builds, the scene changes to Jack sitting down and listening to Nick’s woeful tale of love lost in a dream.

    JACK: This woman is really affecting you, isn’t she?

    NICK: Listen. I know I have to get on with my life. I had a chance encounter in a bar with a beautiful woman. It happens more often than you’d think, right?

    JACK: Not in my life it hasn’t. (Laughs and drinks coffee)

    NICK: Oh come on, Jack. You can’t tell me someone as handsome and virile as you hasn’t had woman falling at your feet.

    JACK: Virile? (Drinks coffee) That calls for a shot of caffeine.

    NICK: You know what I mean.

    JACK: Well, Nick… I have had my share of dates. You’ve seen some of the ladies I’ve squired around Somerset.

    NICK: Of course I have. I think people would say you have fine taste in women.

    JACK: Why thank you, Nicholas. I knew there was a reason why I kept you around and built you up to eventually be a good politician someday.

    NICK: I just wish I could have really met my mystery woman and that it wasn’t a dream. God, she had on the most gorgeous dress…

    JACK: Somewhere, someday, your princess will come to Somerset. It may not be her, but someone will knock you off your feet.

    NICK: I know. And I know it may be sooner than I think, right?

    JACK: Well, you told me Alana stayed here this morning.

    NICK: Ah, yes. Alana. The great love of my life before all hell broke loose. (Drinks) We did have two really good years together.

    JACK: You’re friends right now, and that’s how it will stay. No more enemies for either of you.

    NICK: You’re right. I don’t think I could take it.

    JACK: So keep on your path you’re on right now. Have Alana in your life as a friend and search for your happiness.

    NICK: That title sounds so like a soap opera.

    JACK: I’d tell you to search for tomorrow, Nick, but that’s been done already. (Laughs)

    The two share a laugh as Nick settles back in on the couch and the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.


    SCENE THREE
    George is in his office at Cleybank, having finished the conference call. He is now on the phone with Zachary, whom we do not see, discussing how things went.

    GEORGE: Mixed results. Some of the investors are a little wary that my plan might be a bit too grandiose… hey, if you have any other smart ideas, let them know. I think I got through to them, but I’m going to need a little more help…. (faces window) All right, Zach. Stay off your feet and… what do you mean you’re meeting friends tonight? (Turns back toward the camera) Dammit, son! Are you trying to get yourself killed?

    He realizes he’s being too dramatic and pulls back.

    GEORGE: I know the doctors said you could drive. At least you’re doing it with a car. All right, I’ll see you when I get home tonight. Will you be home for dinner?... Good, I’ll see you then.

    As George hangs up, he looks outside at the view of Somerset and the sun shining overhead on the city.

    GEORGE: Just a matter of time. That’s all.

    The music builds as we switch back to the Register office, where Norman is working on some story ideas when Mike knocks on the door.

    MIKE: How did the meeting go?

    NORMAN: Not bad. Have a seat.

    Mike sits down, feeling a bit fidgety because he has no idea what is going on.

    NORMAN: You seem a little… nervous. Do you think you’re in trouble or something?

    MIKE: Well, the thought did cross my mind. Am I being fired?

    NORMAN: Now why would you think that? Didn’t I tell you it wasn’t bad news?

    MIKE: I know I haven’t been the happiest person at the Register lately, and I wondered if you guys were getting sick of my attitude.

    NORMAN: On the contrary. The fact you’re getting antsy and not being complacent tells me you’d be the perfect investigative reporter here at the Register.

    MIKE: (His mouth drops and he takes a deep breath) You don’t mean that.

    NORMAN: I can take it back if you’d like…

    MIKE: Okay! (Laughs as he holds up hand) You mean it! You mean I’m going to be the next Steve Slade?

    NORMAN: I don’t think anyone could stop Steve. Or top him, for that matter. But the higher-ups are willing to give you a chance.

    MIKE: I’ll take it. (Shakes Norman’s hand) Now what’s my first order of business?

    NORMAN: What everyone else in this town is wondering. What the hell is Project X and how is Jack Martin behind it?

    MIKE: (Music in the background) I already know a couple of Jack’s secrets… do you want something more full-fledged?

    NORMAN: Jack has to know that people around here are starting to wonder. Get to the bottom of what is going on.

    MIKE: I’ll get on it right away.

    As the music builds, Mike is happy about his job promotion, and he wants to celebrate. The picture fades to black, and the Somerset credits and music roll following the commercial break.

    Join us each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. And on most of these same stations, be sure to watch Guiding Light, the Brotherhood… a celebration of daytime’s longest-running serial. Weekdays on SONBC.

    The preceding program was pre-recorded.



  12. sungrey
    (SONBC) -- Wondering why there haven't been any Somerset entries as of late?

    Wonder no more. The writer of Somerset, Steve Ungrey, has the answer.

    "I just got done flogging myself over the head for getting behind," Ungrey said. "Doing a daily blog is harder than I thought it was going to be, but I'm determined to keep it up."

    Ungrey's real-life job features a two-week period in mid to late August where real life intervenes and pretty much prohibits him from doing a lot of fun stuff. (For the record, he is a sports reporter and this period was spent writing up high school football and sports previews.)

    Now that the action on the gridiron is done being previewed, it's about time to get back to the goings-on in Somerset.

    "I plan on posting two episodes per day until the calendar catches up," Ungrey said. That catch-up period begins on Monday, when the 19th and 20th episodes of the program will be posted to SONBC. In the meantime, Ungrey appreciates the nearly 500 page views (not counting his own hits) the site has gotten.

    "Tell your friends we're here," Ungrey said. "The action is heating up."
  13. sungrey
    (The screen turns white and the town of Somerset is slowly drawn on screen line-by-line as the music swells to its climax)

    This… is Somerset.

    SCENE ONE
    Annabella and Victoria are still at the kitchen table having morning coffee as the 18th episode of Somerset begins, and Annabella is talking about life over in Italy while Victoria wipes the sleep out of her eyes and repeats that she’s not the model type.

    VICTORIA: I’m not in the same league you are, Bella.

    ANNABELLA: Says who? (Takes out mirror and shows her) My God, Tori. Look at you. You’re gorgeous. You’ve got a face that could stop traffic…

    VICTORIA: You’re saying that because you’re my sister, you know.

    ANNABELLA: I never knew you had self-esteem issues.

    VICTORIA: (Gets up from chair, walks across room and shakes her head) I don’t. It’s just I’m not that type of woman.

    ANNABELLA: I never knew there was a type. Does that mean I’m vain and insecure just because of what I do?

    VICTORIA: (Spins to face Annabella) My God, Bella! No! I didn’t mean it that way. I’m just not the model type.

    ANNABELLA: And you think I am when I’m here in the states? No way. I love my anonymity over here. Only a handful of people know that in Italy, I’m one of the hotter supermodels around.

    VICTORIA: While here, you’re just Annabella Petterino.

    ANNABELLA: The minute I get on that plane and set foot in the states, it’s a relief to not have anyone notice me like that here. I can pick my car up out of storage. I can go through a drive-in window and order a cheeseburger without anyone looking at me funny.

    VICTORIA: (Gets sly grin) Especially because you’re a model ordering a cheeseburger.

    ANNABELLA: Tell me about it. Some models cringe when they get around peanut dust. They worry they’ll put on a pound just by inhaling it.

    VICTORIA: With this family, we put on a pound just by inhaling Dad’s cooking.

    ANNABELLA: (Pours another coffee) Now come back here and play catch-up with me. I wanna hear what’s going on in your life.

    VICTORIA: Yours is more exciting.

    ANNABELLA: Suuuuuure it is.

    The music plays as the sisters laugh, able to share a fun moment together. The scene changes to the outside of an office building. The interior shot is of Susannah coming off the elevator to Jack Martin’s office area. Joanne comes out and notices Susannah.

    JOANNE: Good morning, Miss Lucas. Nervous?

    SUSANNAH: A little. I’m not sure what to expect.

    JOANNE: You’ll do just fine. You look very nice today, by the way.

    SUSANNAH: (Twirls around) Thank you. I tried to rope a friend of mine into helping me decide what to wear on my first day here at Martin Enterprises. Now he calls this my lawyerly look.

    JOANNE: Well, Miss Lucas, you’ll fit in nicely in a courtroom.

    SUSANNAH: Thank you. I’ve heard that before… and please, call me Susannah. I hear Miss Lucas enough in court.

    JOANNE: Just as long as you’re not in trouble. (Hears door open) Ah, right on cue.

    JACK: (Opening door and notices Susannah) Susannah! Good morning and welcome to the first day of the rest of your life.

    SUSANNAH: Ah, does this mean lifetime employment?

    JACK: I don’t know. It beat saying welcome to your first day in hell. (Laughs) Come with me, your cubicle awaits.

    (Susannah and Jack go down the hall as the music plays and Joanne sits down to take a phone call… the picture fades to black, followed by the Somerset logo reappearing.)

    Somerset… brought to you today by Comet cleanser, the leading bathroom and kitchen cleanser that disinfects as it cleans… and by Millstone Coffee, the high-end coffee without the high-end price.

    SCENE TWO
    At the Cleypool estate, George is on a call with an investor as Zachary limps down the curved staircase and into the living room. Fenwick arrives with coffee for George and notices Zachary.

    FENWICK: Master Zachary. Orange juice?

    ZACHARY: If there’s any available.

    FENWICK: Mmmmyes. I was just in the grove this morning squeezing freshly. I’ll get the carton.

    ZACHARY: (Laughs) I needed that, Fenwick. Thanks.

    FENWICK: Glad I could be of service. I shall return. (Sets coffee by George’s desk and disappears from the scene)

    GEORGE: (Turning around, off the phone) Why the hell didn’t you sleep down here last night? Didn’t the doctor say to stay off your feet?

    ZACHARY: No, he said don’t run into the corner of any bed. I’ve already done that.

    GEORGE: How is the ankle feeling?

    ZACHARY: It hurts like hell at times, but I’ll live. Are you working from home today?

    GEORGE: If you think you can get around, I’ll probably go into the office and oversee today’s conference call. I’m going to get my team together and discuss our options for Somerset’s urban renewal.

    ZACHARY: What type of urban renewal are we talking about?

    GEORGE: I’m trying to put together some sort of deal where we buy this property, wreck it and build fresh on the site. (He points at the map)

    On the map, with ominous music playing in the background, we see George is pointing at The Peoples Building. The camera zooms in on the map site and the next scene blends in… it is a shot of The Peoples Building, and the camera pans back to show an empty office. Jack and Susannah enter.

    JACK: Voila. Susannah, meet your office.

    SUSANNAH: (Looks around as they enter) I love this interior. Very nice. (Looks outside) Jack Martin, don’t feel obligated to give me a great view just because you and my dad are old friends.

    JACK: (Holds up hand) Hold it, hold it with the protest, my dear. I think if you look outside any office window on this side you’ll see the same view of Somerset. Goes with the territory when you own the building.

    SUSANNAH: Well, either way, I’m going to love working in here. Thank you very much, Jack. Now all I need are some other people in here with me. This office looks a little too big for one person.

    JACK: I am working on that as we speak. I’ll be out of town for a couple days on business, but I intend on making it a top priority when I return. By the way, your computer log-in information should be tucked inside your desk.

    SUSANNAH: Gotcha. All right, I’ll get right on everything I’ve got to do.

    JACK: I haven’t even talked about work with you yet.

    SUSANNAH: See how eager I am to start? (Smiles)

    Jack chuckles as the two head over to the desk and she sets down her briefcase. The scene changes back to the Petterino kitchen, as Annabella and Victoria are talking up a storm about her last visit to Italy.

    ANNABELLA: I find it very hard to believe that some guy hasn’t swept you off your feet yet and whisked you away to the Thousand Islands or something.

    VICTORIA: I’ve been busy at the hospital… (remembers) but there is this cute guy that came in a while back to get treated for an ankle injury he had in a motorbike accident.

    ANNABELLA: Ooooo! I’d like to hear about this one.

    VICTORIA: Well… there’s really nothing to tell. I don’t know how often he comes in for therapy and he’s been nothing but supportive to me when he does come in.

    ANNABELLA: Sounds like a winner.

    VICTORIA: Now what about you? I hear you’ve got a date with Scott tonight.

    ANNABELLA: Tori… (laughs and blushes a bit) It’s not a date. Scott and I are just going for a drink and playing pool.

    VICTORIA: How long before you two admit there’s a spark there?

    ANNABELLA: Never. (Sees Tori looking kind of skeptical) Tori, I mean it. Scott knows how I feel and I know how he feels. And besides, I can’t wait to share my news with him.

    VICTORIA: What news is that?

    ANNABELLA: Well… he already knows the gist of it, but I met someone in Italy.

    Victoria’s face brightens as Annabella smiles, and the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE THREE
    In the Petterino kitchen once again.

    VICTORIA: Bella, you give up details right this instant.

    ANNABELLA: Well, I don’t really want to share an awful lot… he lives here in the states, but he does business occasionally in Italy. I want to keep things kind of quiet because Mom and Dad don’t know about him.

    VICTORIA: But Scott does?

    ANNABELLA: Like I said… we’ve got that kind of friendship.

    VICTORIA: Hmm. Okay, whatever you say…

    The music fades as the next scene commences, back at the Cleypool estate. George is looking at the map and comparing it to the model of Somerset on the table.

    ZACHARY: I gotta tell you, Dad, your model of Somerset looks considerably different than the one on the map.

    GEORGE: The whole point, my son. This block of Somerset will look a lot different when I’m done with it.

    ZACHARY: But Dad… that includes The Peoples Building… the Woodruff Building… One Somerset Plaza… and all the business on this street.

    GEORGE: (Notices Zachary pointing at businesses on Trowbridge Street) And your point is?

    ZACHARY: Some hard-working people own businesses on this block.

    GEORGE: Are you getting soft on me, son? Or do you have a hankering for Italian food all of a sudden? (Music builds)

    ZACHARY: You’re not serious about the last part, are you?

    GEORGE: Restaurant row. Bernard’s. Petterino’s. The Riverboat Club. Gone. All of them. When I’m done, this town won’t know what hit it.

    Zachary looks at George with a little skepticism as the picture fades to black. Following commercials, the Somerset theme plays over the credits.

    Join us each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. And on most of these same stations, be sure to watch Genoa City. Back after a short absence on SONBC.

    The preceding program was pre-recorded.

  14. sungrey
    (The screen turns white and the town of Somerset is slowly drawn on screen line-by-line as the music swells to its climax)

    This… is Somerset.

    SCENE ONE
    The picture fades in on Susannah in the bathroom as she is half-dressed and preparing for her first day as a lawyer on the Martin Enterprises payroll. We see Susannah making up her face as a knock can be heard at the door.

    SUSANNAH: What the… (leans out to yell) Come on in! The door’s open. (Turns back to mirror) Who’s here?

    The voice gives away the fact it is Patrick.

    PATRICK: A houseguest who wants to see you off on your first day of work.

    SUSANNAH: (Nods her head) Very impressive, Patrick. I thought you were working today.

    PATRICK: Alana and I took an overnight shift and traded with someone else. I figured I could use a little rest, but not before I came to see you off.

    SUSANNAH: (Appears from bathroom) Oh, you are so sweet. (Holds up stockings) Black or brown?

    PATRICK: I’m afraid I don’t have much experience there, Susannah…

    SUSANNAH: Let me put it another way. (Holds up suit) Black or brown?

    PATRICK: Don’t they say one color makes you look thinner?

    SUSANNAH: (Playfully whacks him over head with suits) Are you saying I need to lose weight or something?

    PATRICK: Not at all. Isn’t that what they say, anyway? One color gives you the illusion of being thinner?

    SUSANNAH: Well, I’m not wearing all one color. I’ll have you know this (holds up blouse) has a flowery pattern to it.

    PATRICK: Ahh, so you’ll look feminine after all. I brought a little breakfast, by the way.

    SUSANNAH: I’ll be right with you. Now that I’ve gotten your opinion (laughter) I’m putting myself together.

    PATRICK: Good to hear. (Sipping coffee, he sits down and playfully shakes his head back and forth, laughing)

    The music plays and the scene changes over to the Petterino house.

    Victoria, looking a bit bleary-eyed from the night before, is slowly coming downstairs. She goes into the kitchen but turns before she can see Annabella at the counter.

    ANNABELLA: One lump or two with your coffee?

    VICTORIA: Two, please. It was a long… (face brightens as she turns) Bella! (Running toward her sister for a tight hug) Welcome home, sis!

    ANNABELLA: Good to be here. (Gets grin on her face) Where were you last night, anyway?

    VICTORIA: Don’t read anything into it. A couple of student nurses and I went out drinking last night to blow off some steam. We went back to one of the nurses’ apartments and I stayed there until I felt well enough to drive on my own.

    ANNABELLA: Smart girl. You always had the brains in the family.

    VICTORIA: You had the looks.

    ANNABELLA: Victoria Petterino, you look at yourself in the mirror and say that line once again. I had the looks? Look at yourself.

    VICTORIA: (Looking at mirror) Right now, I look like someone who had one too many cosmopolitans last night.

    Annabella chuckles as she finishes pot of coffee and gives cup to Victoria. The scene darkens to black and the Somerset logo reappears.

    Somerset… is brought to you today by America’s favorite household cleanser, today’s Spic and Span… and by High Point coffee. The coffee lover’s decaffeinated.

    SCENE TWO
    At Somerset Hospital, Alana is walking the corridor and finishing up her shift. She looks in on Nick, who has been sleeping but is awake and struggling a bit to sit up.

    ALANA: (Comes in) Hey, bud. Let the nurses take care of that.

    NICK: I was fine, Alana. But it is good to see you, albeit under strange circumstances.

    ALANA: You too, honey. (Leans down to kiss Nick) It’s good to see we can be on speaking terms again.

    NICK: I never wanted to be getting the silent treatment. (Looks at Alana) I’m just happy you’re doing something you love.

    ALANA: I’ve been meaning to call you and see if you wanted to grab a drink or something and talk as friends.

    NICK: I may take you up on that. Won’t Mike get jealous?

    ALANA: There’s nothing between Mike and myself.

    NICK: (Grins) Yet, anyway.

    ALANA: You just hush your mouth while I check your vitals. (Goes through the motions of checking Nick’s blood pressure and the whole nine yards)

    NICK: Am I going to live?

    ALANA: Let’s put it this way… I think neurology will spring you later this morning. Do you have a ride?

    NICK: I was going to call Jack, but I forgot this morning.

    ALANA: Ahh, don’t bug Jack. I’m getting off here in about 15 minutes, and I’ll see if your discharge papers will be ready. I’ll drop you off.

    NICK: Is this part of your job?

    ALANA: Nonsense. Consider it an old girlfriend paying back someone she cares about. (Leans down to kiss Nick again) I’ll be back.

    As Nick lays there resting, the scene changes back to Susannah’s condo. Susannah emerges from the bedroom, fully dressed in the traditional “power suit” look.

    PATRICK: (Eyes Susannah) Knock ‘em dead this morning, Susie. You look… lawyerly.

    SUSANNAH: What, no admiration of how I wear it well?

    PATRICK: Just kidding. You look great. Now sit and eat with me. You don’t have to be in until…

    SUSANNAH: I told Jack I’d be in before 9:30, and it’s (checks watch) oh, 8:45. Not too bad.

    PATRICK: Considering traffic in Somerset is always a killer. (Laughter) At least out on the interstate.

    SUSANNAH: I’d like to make a good impression on Jack now that I know Dad didn’t put him up to this job.

    PATRICK: And what if he had?

    SUSANNAH: (Sips coffee) I wouldn’t have been surprised. But Jack told me I earned this chance fair and square, so I’m happy.

    PATRICK: Hey, you’re not alone, you know. When I applied to work here, there was an old guard who knew the names Stanley and Teri Kurtz. I had to tell them I have an uncle in prison, just to sully the Kurtz name a bit.

    SUSANNAH: So Leo’s still in jail, huh?

    PATRICK: He’s content to live out his days because of what he did here in Somerset. I mean, some people hate Jack Martin for what he did with Delaney Brands…

    SUSANNAH: (Grins) One in particular?

    PATRICK: Yeah, right. Jack may have made a mistake or two, but Leo Kurtz running Delaney Brands was like putting Al Capone in charge of the US Treasury. (Sips coffee) So I wanted a fresh start. I told them to give me a job low down on the food chain.

    SUSANNAH: And what happened?

    PATRICK: I did so well at it, they damn ended up promoting me a couple years later. Now I’m just a couple steps away from chief of staff.

    SUSANNAH: I know what you mean. I worked with Dad in Oklahoma City for several years until I decided I wanted to strike out on my own. So I hung out my own shingle in that city as a corporate attorney.

    PATRICK: Did you get sick of it?

    SUSANNAH: Well, I was in Kansas City for a while and then I left there. I got homesick. Wanted to go back and feel the wind come sweeping down the plain.

    PATRICK: (Sips coffee and smiles) Is this where you break into oh, what a beautiful morning?

    SUSANNAH: No, but if you want to join me…

    PATRICK: I’ll pass. Still a little bleary-eyed. I’m going to go home and hit the sack, I think.

    SUSANNAH: I don’t blame you there. Could use a little more sleep myself.

    (Patrick nods as the music builds and the picture fades)

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE THREE
    Fade in on Nick’s apartment as he and Alana enter, Alana guiding Nick over to the couch so he can sit and relax.

    ALANA: Sure you don’t want to lie down?

    NICK: I probably will. I may not sleep in that bed for a while.

    ALANA: So… who is this mystery woman?

    NICK: Oh… it’s no one.

    ALANA: Humor me, OK? (Kisses Nick on the cheek) We dated for nearly two years. Then we had a falling out over work…

    NICK: Which I regret to this day. I treated you badly toward the end and I’m sorry for it.

    ALANA: Hey… you’re entitled to have a little fun once in a while. You just weren’t having any when you devoted all your life to work.

    NICK: Tell me about it. (Reclines on couch) She had the most beautiful red hair… that smile…

    ALANA: One look and you were hooked, right?

    NICK: Close. (Starting to feel woozy) I think my meds are kicking in.

    ALANA: Tell ya what. I’ve worked overnight and I could crash, so let me stay here with you for a while.

    NICK: You don’t have to do that…

    ALANA: I’m just going to recline… mind if I use that bed?

    NICK: You were familiar with it at one point. Be my guest. (Smiles)

    ALANA: (Yawns) Thanks, old friend.

    Nick goes to sleep as the music builds and Alana heads into the bedroom. We cut to: Susannah’s condo as Susannah is grabbing her briefcase and looking at her hair in the mirror.

    PATRICK: You look fine, Susie.

    SUSANNAH: You sure?

    PATRICK: Go out there and knock them dead. (Leans in and gives her a kiss on the cheek)

    SUSANNAH: Thanks.

    The two exit and walk down the sidewalk, with Patrick getting in his car and Susannah in hers. Once the cars leave, we see a shadowy figure with The Kansas City Star in hand and gloves on to prevent any prints from being left.

    The figure sticks the paper underneath the welcome mat with one corner sticking out, and he walks away as an eerie music theme plays. We cannot see who it is as the picture immediately cuts to black. After commercials, the Somerset theme plays.

    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 the new serial The Market, detailing the lives and loves of people at the grocery store. New on SONBC.

    The preceding program was pre-recorded.
  15. sungrey
    (The town of Somerset is slowly drawn on screen line-by-line as the music swells to its climax)

    This… is Somerset.

    SCENE ONE
    The scene is a direct pickup from Friday’s cliffhanger involving Giovanni, Rose and the intruder, with some of the dialogue still intact.

    GIOVANNI: Hey… is it my fault I have the libido like a bodybuilder? It’s us passionate Italians, you know.

    ROSE: And I’m glad we came home early tonight. It’s a great feeling to (hears a rattling noise downstairs and she sits up)… what the hell?

    GIOVANNI: Hey, don’t worry. The security alarm didn’t go off, so everything’s probably all right. (The alarm goes off) Forget I just said that. I’ll go check it out.

    ROSE: Hurry back.

    Giovanni hurriedly dresses and takes a baseball bat downstairs with him, a bat that he uses in just such an emergency. He heads downstairs, where he sees a shadowy figure trying to mess with the security system.

    GIOVANNI: Hands up, you… (The lights come on and Giovanni’s face drops) Oh, my…

    A young woman turns around, having finally disabled the security system switch. It is Annabella, the Petterinos’ oldest daughter, having sneaked back into Somerset overnight.

    ANNABELLA: (Sheepishly grins) Hi, Daddy.

    Giovanni can’t quite believe his eyes. The music plays and the scene changes.

    CUT TO: Somerset Hospital

    We see the hospital’s outline at night and then a gurney being brought into the ER. Nick is on the gurney, having collapsed at his home in Friday’s cliffhanger. There is a white bandage on his head with red streaks indicating blood.

    PATRICK: (Rushing to the gurney) What do we have… oh my God… Nick? Nick, what happened?

    NICK: (Barely conscious) Wh… where… am I?

    PATRICK: It’s Patrick, Nick. Patrick Kurtz. You’re being wheeled into the hospital. Do you know what happened to you?

    NICK: I guess I’m… (mumbles before losing consciousness again) not at Bernard’s anymore.

    The gurney is wheeled into one of the emergency rooms, as Patrick has a puzzled look on his face. The picture fades to black and the Somerset logo reappears.

    Somerset. Brought to you today by Pert 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner, for hair that bounces and behaves… and by the moist, delicious desserts of Duncan Hines.

    SCENE TWO
    Back at the hospital – Alana is working an overnight shift along with Taylor, and she comes back onto the floor.

    ALANA: Did I miss anything?

    TAYLOR: They just brought your ex in here.

    ALANA: (Appears worried) My ex… Nick? What happened? (Rushes toward ER where Nick was brought and comes through the door) Nick?

    PATRICK: Calm down, Alana… I think Nick’s just been the victim of a nasty bump on the head.

    The police officer brought in with Nick concurs, nodding his head.

    OFFICER: The 911 call indicated no response on the other end. Our tracing system routed the call back to his apartment, but when we got there we saw no signs of a struggle. It looked like one of his drawers by the nightstand was hanging out slightly.

    ALANA: Poor baby. (Comes up to Nick and kisses his forehead) Hey sweetie. You awake?

    NICK: (Opens eyes weakly) I wondered how long it would take you to come running out here.

    Alana strokes Nick’s forehead as the music plays to change scenes.

    CUT TO: The Petterino household, where Giovanni still has the bat hanging over his head.

    ANNABELLA: You’re not going to look like Barry Bonds, Dad. No matter how hard you try.

    GIOVANNI: (Puts bat down and opens his arms) Bello Figlia, welcome home.

    ROSE: (Coming down the stairs) What’s all the commotion… (turns to see Annabella) Oh my… Bella, honey.

    ANNABELLA: (Hugging both parents) I missed you both. I couldn’t wait to get home.

    GIOVANNI: I thought your flight wasn’t until tomorrow, honey.

    ANNABELLA: I thought so, too.

    ROSE: We need to make a pot of coffee. (Goes toward the kitchen)

    ANNABELLA: Mom, I’m fine. I got some sleep on board the flight back. Don’t ask me how, but I did it.

    ROSE: Well, we need some coffee. Don’t we, Giovanni?

    GIOVANNI: Speak for yourself, mia moglie.

    ANNABELLA: I was able to get an earlier flight to New York. Then I got my car out of storage and drove up here to Somerset. I figured I’d surprise you guys… I didn’t think you’d be asleep.

    GIOVANNI: Oh, we weren’t asleep…

    ANNABELLA: You weren’t… (realizes what she walked in on and covers her ears) Oh guys, more information than needed…

    ROSE: (Changing the subject) How was the trip back?

    ANNABELLA: Not bad. The nice thing about getting in the skies and getting back to America is no one knows who I am here. It’s only when I get to Italy that I become Annabella, the supermodel.

    GIOVANNI: It’s not that bad, is it?

    ANNABELLA: Naa. (Hears knock on door) Who could be… oh no, did I alert the police?

    ROSE: You may have, I’ll check it out. (Opens door and sees Scott there) Lt. Garfield! Come on in…

    SCOTT: Don’t mind if I do. I thought I’d check out the scene. The security company notified us there was an alarm tripped?

    ANNABELLA: I’m afraid I tripped it.

    (Scott turns to see Annabella’s smiling face and he smiles himself as the picture fades to black)

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE THREE
    Back at Somerset Hospital, Nick has awakened somewhat but is still very groggy. Patrick is looking Nick over.

    PATRICK: I’d say we’re dealing with a concussion here, but I’m waiting for the diagnosis to come in from upstairs.

    NICK: I feel like I fell from five stories.

    PATRICK: Fell? (Leans down) By any chance, you didn’t fall out of bed, did you?

    NICK: (Slowly nods) I didn’t think adults could fall out of bed, but I see it’s possible.

    PATRICK: What the hell were you doing to make you fall out of bed?

    NICK: Just a dream.

    PATRICK: (Looks incredulous) You better have been dreaming about Jessica Alba to make you fall out of bed like that.

    NICK: She wasn’t Jessica Alba, but damn close.

    Alana comes in with the test results.

    ALANA: Here you are, Patrick. I think your diagnosis is correct.

    PATRICK: (Looks at the test results) Well, so it is. Mr. Barclay, you will be staying here tonight with us at the Skeleton Hotel. You’ll get room service, a free continental breakfast…

    NICK: All the nurses fawning over me that I want?

    ALANA: (Kisses Nick’s forehead) Especially that.

    NICK: How long am I going to be out of commission?

    PATRICK: You’ll be groggy for a day or so, then you should slowly improve. I’d say take it easy for a while, though.

    NICK: Oh, don’t worry about that. I don’t plan on going anywhere.

    The music builds as the picture changes back to the Petterino house.

    SCOTT: Well, I’ll be damned… (Comes over to Annabella) Welcome home, Annabella.

    ANNABELLA: (Gives Scott a huge hug and a kiss on the cheek) I can see you haven’t changed much.

    SCOTT: It’s only been six months since you’ve been gone. What’d you think I’d do, shed the suit for something different?

    ANNABELLA: Don’t change. Whatever you do, don’t change. We like you just the way you are.

    SCOTT: I like myself the way I am, too. By the way, Annabella, was that your sportscar speeding through downtown.

    ANNABELLA: (Gulps) Oh, boy. I didn’t think anyone was paying attention.

    GIOVANNI: Annabella Petterino… (wags finger) What did we say about speeding with the car?

    ANNABELLA: You never said anything, Dad.

    GIOVANNI: (Checks finger) Well, so I didn’t. But you still know better.

    SCOTT: I had an APB out on your vehicle because it was speeding through downtown Somerset. I canceled the APB just now.

    ANNABELLA: Scott, I can make a donation to your favorite police charity and consider it a fine.

    SCOTT: That would be… well, fine. Also let me take a good friend out for a drink when you’re up for it.

    ANNABELLA: And a game of pool?

    SCOTT: Pool it is. Listen, I don’t want to intrude on your welcome home, so I’ll let you celebrate in private.

    ANNABELLA: I’ll hold you to that drink and a game of pool. Good to see you again.

    ROSE: Bye, Lt. Garfield. (Watches the door shut) Some things never change, right, Annabella?

    ANNABELLA: Mom. We’re just friends and we always have been.

    Rose smiles as Annabella defends herself, and the picture fades to black. 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 Genoa City, weekdays on SONBC. This program was pre-recorded.

  16. sungrey
    (The town of Somerset is slowly drawn on screen line-by-line as the music swells to its climax)

    This… is Somerset.

    SCENE ONE
    The imposing Cleypool mansion is shown from a distance as the camera pans in. We see George sitting at his study table taking a look at some financial statements when Zachary comes in wearing a walking boot on his right foot and ankle.

    ZACHARY: Hey, Dad. I’m back from the hospital.

    GEORGE: (Takes a look) What the heck did they do to you, wrap your ankle in thousands of pieces of bandage?

    ZACHARY: No, it’s called a walking boot. It’ll help me get around. The doctors told me I wrecked my ankle worse than I thought in the motorcycle accident, and this is the best way I can get around for a while.

    GEORGE: Well… at least you’re in one piece.

    ZACHARY: It’s going to involve weekly therapy sessions. Do you think you can get along without me here at the house for that long?

    GEORGE: (Looks up from his paperwork) You know better than to ask that question.

    ZACHARY: (Smiling) I know. I was just testing. I’ll be upstairs if you need me. (Turns to head up the staircase)

    George shakes his head, wondering how he raised such a mischievous son. He’s turned back to his paperwork when Fenwick walks in, holding a package.

    FENWICK: Delivery, Master Cleypool.

    GEORGE: Oh, good. (Taking the package, he looks inside) Just what I was waiting for today.

    FENWICK: And what good would a newspaper clipping be?

    GEORGE: (Looks up) Did you look at this?

    FENWICK: No, sir. I don’t snoop around in what you’re doing… and besides, any old oaf can see that’s a newspaper in the package.

    GEORGE: (Realizing the paper shows through the package itself) Uh… right. Okay, Fenwick. Thank you as always.

    FENWICK: No problem, sir. (Turns and leaves the room)

    GEORGE: (Taking a newspaper out of the package… we see it is an older edition of The Kansas City Star) This is just the ammunition I need. (Smiling as he prepares his plan)

    CUT TO: The Petterino household, where Rose and Giovanni are at home after a day at the restaurant.

    GIOVANNI: You know, I’m glad we have a capable night staff that can step in and manage the place if we decide to have a night at home.

    ROSE: You bet. And with Victoria working at the hospital and heading out with a couple of her girlfriends later on, the house is all to ourselves.

    GIOVANNI: (Comes over and sits on the couch next to Rose) Did I ever tell you that you’re as delectable as the moment I laid eyes on you in college?

    ROSE: All the time. But do it again.

    GIOVANNI: Okay.

    He leans in to kiss Rose and soon their passion has them heading up the staircase with the music rising and the picture fading to black. The Somerset logo reappears.

    Somerset… brought to you today by Sunshine Fresh Gain, the laundry detergent with the sunshine-fresh scent for clean clothes… and by dark, sparkling Folger’s Crystals. The coffee that tastes as rich as it looks.

    SCENE TWO
    We fade in on the Register offices, where Mike is busy working on his latest masterpiece… only he doesn’t think it’s one and his editor, Norman Vickery, senses his displeasure.

    NORMAN: (Checking in at Mike’s cubicle) How’s the city commission story coming?

    MIKE: Good, but it’s not going to be an award-winning story, if that’s what you’re wondering.

    NORMAN: No one expects it to be.

    MIKE: Good, because it’s done. (Pushes button on keyboard to send the story over to editing). Take a look at it and see what you think.

    NORMAN: Fair enough. (Peruses computer screen) This isn’t bad, Mike. Granted, it’s city commission votes…

    MIKE: How the heck did reporters like Steve Slade investigate the mob in this town and I end up with the city commission?

    NORMAN: You know the answer to that, Mike. Somerset isn’t the town it was 30-some years ago, and be grateful for that.

    MIKE: Oh, I know. I’m just waiting for a big story to come along. Any story that I can sink my teeth into and give it a good ride. I wish Jack Martin would hurry up with details of his proposed Project X.

    NORMAN: And what makes you think Jack will be your savior?

    MIKE: He has the backing of a lot of people in this town… well, with the exception of one, and even he’s not as big a problem as he could be.

    NORMAN: (Laughs) Just wait, Mike. Eventually you’ll get your front-page scoop and a trip to New York to work your dream job. (Walks away)

    MIKE: (Settling back into the cubicle) And it can’t happen soon enough.

    The music builds and the scene changes to Bernard’s Restaurant, where Scott is in nursing a beer and talking with Bernard about the goings-on in Somerset.

    SCOTT: You been having any problems with the graffiti-mongers out there, Bernard?

    BERNARD: Naaa. For the most part they leave me alone. They know that this restaurant draws a good crowd and they stay away.

    SCOTT: I wish that we didn’t have this problem here. If we didn’t, then my track record as lieutenant would be spotless.

    BERNARD: You know it beats the old days. When you’re dealing with kids spraying paint cans on walls, then the crime rate isn’t that bad here.

    SCOTT: I hear you. (Finishes beer) You have a good evening, my friend. Are you out of here yet?

    BERNARD: Naaa, I’m here a little while longer. I’ll keep your seat warm if you choose to come back.

    SCOTT: Think I’ll go home, read the Register and count my blessings. (Waves goodbye as he leaves) So long.

    Bernard wipes the table down as we cut to outside the restaurant. As Scott is about to get in his car, he sees a red convertible sportscar speeding down the street going 60 in what is easily a 40 zone.

    SCOTT: What the heck? (Goes to his dashboard to pull out the radio) All units on duty, be on the lookout for a red convertible that may be speeding toward you. The car looks like it’s going about 20 or 25 over the limit.

    The music builds and the picture fades to black.

    We’ll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE THREE
    In the Petterino house, Giovanni and Rose are upstairs basking in the afterglow after a round of lovemaking.

    ROSE: I always can tell when you love not having the kids around. You turn into the lothario you always were when we were younger.

    GIOVANNI: Hey… is it my fault I have the libido like a bodybuilder? It’s us passionate Italians, you know.

    ROSE: And I’m glad we came home early tonight. It’s a great feeling to (hears a rattling noise downstairs and she sits up)… what the hell?

    GIOVANNI: Hey, don’t worry. The security alarm didn’t go off, so everything’s probably all right. (The alarm goes off) Forget I just said that. I’ll go check it out.

    ROSE: Hurry back.

    Giovanni hurriedly dresses and takes a baseball bat downstairs with him, a bat that he uses in just such an emergency. He heads downstairs, where he sees a shadowy figure trying to mess with the security system.

    GIOVANNI: Hands up, you… (The lights come on and Giovanni’s face drops) Oh, my…

    CUT TO: Bernard’s Restaurant, where Bernard is serving a customer when Nick walks in.

    BERNARD: Hey, Nick. What’ll you have?

    NICK: Make a mean Manhattan. I sure can use one.

    BERNARD: Coming right up. (Goes to the booze while Nick looks forward at the wall)

    NICK: Kinda slow around here tonight?

    BERNARD: Naaa. It’s picked up in the last hour.

    As Nick is nursing his drink, he hears a familiar voice in the background.

    WOMAN: Hey, hot stuff… want to enjoy a vodka with me?

    Nick slowly turns. He can’t believe his ears. Could it be? As he turns to look, he sees the mystery woman from the bar. How did she find him?

    WOMAN: (Crosses legs, poses seductively) Why don’t you come back and share your Manhattan with me?

    NICK: No better time than the present, right?

    He runs from the bar toward the woman’s table.

    NICK: I can’t believe you found me… we didn’t even…

    About halfway across the room, Nick runs into what appears to be an imaginary wall. He hits the wall with a thud.

    CUT TO: Nick’s bedroom

    We see that Nick was in bed but has fallen with a crash to the floor. He tries to get up and notices that he has blood on his head. He quickly takes out his cell phone and dials 911 before being overcome and collapsing again to the floor. The picture immediately blacks out.

    Join us each weekday afternoon at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. And on most of these same computers, be sure to enjoy From These Roots, which soon moves to another network but not without ending its SONBC run with a bang. The preceding program was pre-recorded.


  17. sungrey
    Thank you for your patience. Episode 15 will be posted later today, followed at some point by Episode 16, and that should bring you up to speed.

    The screen turns white as the town of Somerset is drawn line by line and the music swells to its climax...

    This... is Somerset.

    SCENE ONE
    We fade in on Nick as he is sitting at his desk, staring blankly ahead at the computer screen and trying to do some work. But his thoughts keep going back to Washington and to the bar. As he imagines her flowing red hair and smile, he rests his head on his hands and wonders how the heck he's going to get through the day. He doesn't see Jack standing in the doorway.

    JACK: They say a watched computer screen can make you go blind if you stare at it.

    NICK: (Startled, nearly falls out of his chair) Hey Jack. About scared me half to death.

    JACK: (Laughter) I could have said a watched computer screen could sometimes explode. Just on the way back from Lt. Garfield's office and thought I'd drop in and see how the convention went.

    NICK: (Puts hand on big stack of papers next to his desk) All this reading material right here. Want to join in?

    JACK: Oooo... (takes one step back) I've got my own reading to do, thanks. How did the convention go?

    NICK: You really want to know, don't you? (Shakes his head) It was fine. Until the end.

    (Jack gets a quizzical look on his face as the scene shifts to the hospital)

    Patrick and another doctor, Tyler Nelson, are looking over Zachary's injured right ankle. It's obvious that Zachary is in some pain, but he's making do as the doctors continue their exam.

    TYLER: It looks like you shattered part of the ankle in that fall. Before you wonder, though, I'd say that the motorcycle accident caused part of this damage.

    ZACHARY: So in other words, if I'd have zigged instead of zagged I wouldn't have fallen off the bike and busted my ankle.

    PATRICK: Looks like you weakened the bone to the point where one fall of any sort would have caused a big problem. I'd say -- and I would have to concur with Tyler on this -- you're looking at about two or three months of rehab.

    ZACHARY: (Grimaces) Damn. Dad's just going to be thrilled at this.

    PATRICK: He'll be fine, Zachary. You're still here and that's what is important to him. (Calls out of the room) Victoria? Could we have you bandage up Zachary?

    VICTORIA: (From offscreen) On my way in.

    TYLER: I think we're all set, Patrick. Thanks for consulting on this with me.

    PATRICK: Not a problem. Zachary, have a good day and we'll see you in a week or so to check on it.

    ZACHARY: Thanks.

    As the doctors leave, Zachary slams his hand on the table, just as Victoria walks in.

    VICTORIA: Trying to injure something else?

    ZACHARY: (Shoots Victoria a look, as if to say "very funny") Just the person I'm looking for, actually.

    (Victoria's eyes widen in response as the picture fades to black. The Somerset logo reappears)

    Somerset... brought to you today by Charmin. The tissue that's so squeezably soft, it's irresistible... and by Crest Pro Health Rinse, the mouthwash that provides dentist-recommended benefits as well as whiter teeth and fresher breath.

    SCENE TWO
    Out in the waiting area at Somerset Hospital, Patrick is looking at a couple charts when Susannah appears in the lobby.

    SUSANNAH: If it isn't Somerset's most handsome doctor at work.

    PATRICK: (Looks up and around) Where? Where is he? (Turns to look at Susannah) Did you mean me?

    SUSANNAH: You don't see Doctor McDreamy around here anywhere, do you?

    PATRICK: Please. I preferred Dr. Ross. (Laughs) What brings you to the hospital... and don't tell me it's another checkup.

    SUSANNAH: I was in the neighborhood and wondered if you had time to catch a quick bite to eat.

    PATRICK: I see. Checking out your new office digs, I take it?

    SUSANNAH: I'm on my way over to do it as we speak.

    PATRICK: Well, unfortunately I'm on duty... but let me finish rounds for a moment and then we can retire to my office.

    SUSANNAH: Ooo, you get an office and everything?

    PATRICK: You bet. Wait here and I'll be right with you.

    (Susannah smiles as Patrick finishes up with his patients... the scene changes back to City Hall as Nick is filling Jack in on what took place)

    JACK: I've had a few flirty encounters at parties, but Nicholas... my boy, it sounds like this one took the cake.

    NICK: It wasn't cake, Jack... it was... sinfully rich ice cream. A filling piece of pie... a luscious dessert treat. (Shaking his head) God, I'm making myself hungry thinking about this. Rescue me, Jack.

    JACK: And what do you suppose I should do?

    NICK: Moral support? Strength? God, Jack, she was beautiful. That hair. That smile. That body. And she even called me out on that.

    JACK: The fact you were staring at her body?

    NICK: She's got a sense of humor. A great mind for sarcasm. And... I didn't even get her name.

    JACK: (Feigns shock by putting hand on heart) Nicholas Barclay, you wound me deeply. Didn't I teach you the right way? When you are at a bar like that, you should always get the woman's name. She never asked you?

    NICK: (Shakes his head) Hard to believe, huh? As it is, she did get whisked out of the bar pretty quickly by her friends.

    JACK: Well, if anything, Nicholas, this proves one thing.

    NICK: I'm just dying to hear it.

    JACK: Next time. Names. Places. Faces. Features. Anything... and it also proves you've still got it.

    NICK: (Staring ahead at the computer) Yeah. Whatever "it" is.

    (Jack pats Nick on the shoulder in consolation as Nick continues staring at the screen... the picture fades to black)

    We'll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE THREE
    In the exam room at Somerset Hospital, Victoria is wrapping Zachary's injured ankle.

    ZACHARY: I just wanted to apologize for the way my dad behaved toward all of you when I was last here.

    VICTORIA: (Looks up) He didn't harm me. I've been around demanding men all of my life.

    ZACHARY: What, the doctors at this place? Don't tell me your father is that demanding.

    VICTORIA: In a way, he is. But it's a good way. He wants the best from his children. So far, I'm the one that's stayed here and worked very hard, so I guess I get all the spoils from it.

    ZACHARY: Is that what they call them? I'm not an only child, but I'm the only one that chose to stay in Somerset and deal with Dad's wrath.

    VICTORIA: You're strong enough. You can take it.

    ZACHARY: Thanks... (eyes name tag) Victoria. Do you have a last name to go with the tag?

    VICTORIA: Petterino.

    ZACHARY: (Making the connection) Are you... Giovanni's daughter?

    VICTORIA: One of two... why do you ask?

    ZACHARY: No reason. I love your dad's restaurant.

    VICTORIA: Thanks. It may not be the country club, but it's home.

    ZACHARY: Please, Victoria. That's what I like about it. It's NOT the country club.

    Zachary and Victoria walk toward the exit and out into the hallway.

    VICTORIA: I'm surprised you'd say that.

    ZACHARY: There's an awful lot you don't know about me. (Checks watch) Gotta run. Thanks again.

    As Zachary walks away, Victoria holds the clipboard tightly against her and smiles.

    CUT TO -- Hospital offices

    Susannah and Patrick have retired to his office with food from the cafeteria. As they set the food down, Susannah takes a seat.

    PATRICK: So when do you start your new gig with Jack?

    SUSANNAH: I told him I'd come aboard on Tuesday. I'm still getting some things squared away at the condo and realizing that Grant's Preserve is a nice place to live. How about you? Where are you at now?

    PATRICK: This is my home. (Laughter) All kidding aside, it feels like it. I'm actually in a condo myself here in downtown Somerset. Seventh floor of the Woodruff Building.

    SUSANNAH: That's a new skyscraper, isn't it?

    PATRICK: About 15 stories tall. You'll have to come over and see it.

    SUSANNAH: That I will. (Yawns)

    PATRICK: Whoa, is your energy level down that far?

    SUSANNAH: Naa. I just need to get more sleep, that's all. But who's got the time, right?

    Patrick nods in approval as Susannah hides the fact that she had an awful nightmare the night before. The music swells to its climax, albeit a bit ominously knowing what we do about Susannah. The Somerset credits and music 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 Wicked, when an explosion triggers war among the residents of Port Charles. Weekdays on SONBC. The preceding program was pre-recorded.
  18. 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.

  19. sungrey
    (The screen turns white and the town of Somerset is drawn line by line on the screen, as the music swells to its climax)

    This... is Somerset.

    SCENE ONE
    The overhead shot of Washington D.C. appears once again, with the word "Washington" below. We see Nick walking along a city street, presumably back to his hotel room. All of a sudden he stops. He's by the Potomac River and he looks out onto the water.

    The scene is mostly done in silence. Nick remembers back to earlier that night and the encounter at the bar with the young woman. Nick smiles and recalls how she whispered in his ear and ran her fingernails down his arm. We also see the young woman laughing and flinging her red hair back.

    NICK: (Shaking his head) Barclay, you blew it. You blew it, my boy.

    (Almost on cue, the skies open up with a light rain, and Nick gets a bit drenched by the water)

    NICK: (Looking up) I know, I know. All that's missing is the umbrella and Gene Kelly. (Walking forward) Only I'm not singing. Or smiling.

    (Nick walks out of camera range, and the camera pulls back as the picture fades to black. The Somerset logo reappears)

    Somerset. Brought to you today by the moist, delicious desserts made by Duncan Hines... and by Original Formula Mr. Clean. Cleans your whole house and everything that's in it.

    SCENE TWO
    The same rain that is falling in Washington is also falling in Somerset, although the two cities are several hours away. Susannah is on the front step of her house, watching the lightning far away. We see a car coming down the street and it stops in front of Susannah's house. At first Susannah thinks it's Patrick, but then she sees it's Giovanni carrying a dish.

    GIOVANNI: Buongiorno, Miss Lucas. You selected a good location for your house. You're just several doors down from us.

    SUSANNAH: Giovanni! Come on in out of the rain. Let me guess. (Takes dish and sets it on kitchen table) Mom and Dad wanted you to make a care package for me?

    GIOVANNI: Between myself and Jack Martin, you'll be fine with people looking in after you. Are you enjoying Somerset so far?

    SUSANNAH: Well, everyone's so nice here. I don't recall a lot about Somerset when I lived here with Mom and Dad, but I know later in life they were ever so glad to get the heck out of here and start over in Oklahoma.

    GIOVANNI: And I bet they were ever so surprised when they brought you back here and they saw how much this community had changed. Downtown's much bigger than it was, the cannery is torn down...

    SUSANNAH: I know. I did some research at the library today and I went over some past copies of the Register. I wanted to get to know my future boss a bit better. What is in that dish, by the way? It smells heavenly.

    GIOVANNI: Rose's spaghetti and meatballs recipe.

    SUSANNAH: I'll be sure to have it for lunch tomorrow. Wow, that is powerful stuff. Want a drink for the road?

    GIOVANNI: Surprise me with whatever you've got.

    SUSANNAH: Here, catch. (Goes to fridge and gets out pop can for herself and for Giovanni, throwing one over there)

    GIOVANNI: I might need you on our restaurant softball team.

    SUSANNAH: (Laughs) You're the second person trying to recruit my services.

    GIOVANNI: Well, Jack's company doesn't have a softball team...

    SUSANNAH: No. Patrick Kurtz at Somerset Hospital.

    GIOVANNI: Ah yes. Stan and Teri's son. Good kid. Back to Jack... are you having second thoughts about your boss?

    SUSANNAH: No, no. Not at all. (Sips pop) In fact, I'm looking forward to my first day at Martin Enterprises.

    GIOVANNI: Jack is looking forward to having you on staff. He wants to bolster his legal presence in Somerset so he can go forward with the big project.

    SUSANNAH: Yeah... what do you know about the big project?

    GIOVANNI: You've come to the wrong place. I don't know a thing. Yet, anyway. We keep pressuring Jack to reveal some of his plans, but he doesn't want to do it yet.

    SUSANNAH: He'll have to soon.

    GIOVANNI: (Checks his watch) I better get home before Rose wonders where I am. Enjoy the pasta and if you feel like a home-cooked meal anytime, our kitchen is always open. We're just down and off Kemmer Road on Harriman Circle.

    SUSANNAH: I will do just that. (Walks Giovanni back to the door) Have a good night.

    GIOVANNI: Ciao, Miss Lucas. (Walks back to his car)

    SUSANNAH: (Smells pasta dish) No, Susannah. Have it tomorrow. It'll keep. (She puts it away in the refrigerator and shuts out the downstairs light before heading upstairs)

    The music builds and the scene changes to Giovanni's, where the bar is still open and Mike is sharing a drink with Alana.

    ALANA: Wagner, I didn't intend on staying here as long as I did, but I gotta say thanks for the evening of enjoyment.

    MIKE: You're welcome. (Takes a swallow of beer) My original invitation was for coffee, but I figured I might see you here.

    ALANA: Well, just so you know... I'm not really in the market for a long-term person in my life. Not yet, anyway.

    MIKE: Hey, I didn't say anything about long-term. I'm just glad I finally got you out of the nurses' gear and into more relaxed clothes.

    ALANA: We put a long day in at the hospital. I'm bushed, and I'm going home to bed.

    MIKE: Need an escort home? Are you OK to drive?

    ALANA: Of course I am, silly. I just had two beers and I drank slowly.

    MIKE: Just remembering what was in the Register recently.

    ALANA: Oh... the motorbike accident. Don't worry. That driver wasn't drunk either. But I appreciate the offer of an escort.

    MIKE: (Stands up) Well then, have a good night. (Takes Alana's hand and softly kisses it)

    ALANA: Flattery will get you nowhere, Wagner. (Smiles) But it was fun. See ya at the hospital soon.

    MIKE: Hopefully just checking on a story. (Alana leaves as he sits back down)

    Mike smiles and finishes his beer, while outside the bar Alana looks in, gets a small grin on her face and takes off for her car. The music builds and the picture fades to black.

    We'll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE THREE
    At the Petterino house, Giovanni and Rose are on the front porch, snuggled up and listening to the thunder.

    GIOVANNI: I can't believe Tori went to bed so early.

    ROSE: She didn't turn in until after 11. She had a hard day today.

    GIOVANNI: She loves it, and you know it.

    ROSE: Ahh, I see. So how did Susannah enjoy her care package?

    GIOVANNI: Well, she's going to eat it tomorrow. I'll let you know when she tells me.

    ROSE: Good to have another neighbor to know.

    GIOVANNI: Yeah. She reminds me a lot of Annabella. That feisty attitude...

    ROSE: Definitely. (Sighs) I can't wait for Annabella to come home.

    GIOVANNI: It will be soon, my love. Soon.

    Giovanni and Rose share a lingering kiss as the scene abruptly changes to Susannah's bedroom.

    As the thunder and lightning continue, we see Susannah tossing and turning in bed. It is obvious from the scene that she is having some sort of nightmare. Finally, she bolts upright with a scream.

    SUSANNAH: (Breathing fast and hard, looking around) You're in Somerset, Susannah. Far, far away.

    The camera pulls back and instead of the music, we hear the noise of rainfall and Susannah's breathing returning to normal. The picture fades to black and then the Somerset 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 As Days Go By, when Billie tells Steve and Bo she won't take no for an answer. Weekdays on SONBC. The preceding program was pre-recorded.






  20. sungrey
    (The town of Somerset is drawn line-by-line on a white screen as the music swells to its climax)

    This... is Somerset.

    SCENE ONE
    The serial opens today at the Petterino house, where Victoria has just arrived home from the hospital. Rose is in the kitchen reading the day's Register as Tori comes in through the back door.

    ROSE: (Looks up and removes glasses) Well, that was a long day at work.

    VICTORIA: (Shuts door) No later than usual, Mom. Did you lose track of time? I was supposed to work until 9.

    ROSE: And you left the house... a 12-hour day?

    VICTORIA: Mom, I don't work every day... I'm on the schedule just four days a week, and I have three days off.

    ROSE: Whatever happened to the 9-to-5 type jobs that were out there?

    VICTORIA: (Bends over and kisses Rose on the cheek) They disappeared. Just like you and Dad at the restaurant.

    ROSE: I see. Hey, we got some good news from overseas... Annabella's coming home for a visit.

    VICTORIA: (Rifling through refrigerator for the milk, but she looks up and smiles) All right! I get to pick on my older sister!

    ROSE: Somehow I knew you'd say that. (Laughs)

    The scene changes, as we see an overhead shot of Washington D.C. with the word "Washington" below the cityscape. Back at the bar, Nick is engaged in conversation with the young woman who descended the stairs on Friday. The woman has turned herself toward Nick and is flashing a big smile at him.

    WOMAN: So what's a guy like you doing alone at a bar like this?

    NICK: Nursing a drink and watching a ballgame. What's your excuse?

    WOMAN: I had to come downstairs. These barristers' parties can be fun, but it's worth it to escape the stuffed shirts. Besides, I had to come find out how my Marlins were doing.

    NICK: You realize you could get booed out of this bar by saying that. Not by me, of course, but...

    WOMAN: (Makes face) Sweetheart, please. Not with the way the Nationals are doing this year. It's a battle of last place.

    NICK: You from Florida?

    WOMAN: I lived down there for a while. Went to school in Gainesville...

    NICK: So you must be on cloud nine about the basketball.

    WOMAN: Damn straight, handsome. That deserves another drink... it'll be my third down here, but who cares... (cell phone rings) Doggone it, hold on. (Picks up) Hey, what's up? (Looks up) You couldn't come downstairs to tell me that? All right, I'll be right up. (Puts phone away and motions to bartender) Can I settle my tab?

    BARTENDER: I would if I could, but I'm afraid you have no tab.

    WOMAN: No tab? What... (Suddenly gets it and smiles devilishly at Nick) Thank you for the vodkas. I promise I'll come back down for a nightcap, OK?

    NICK: I'll hold you to it.

    Nick looks as the woman leaves the bar and heads back up the staircase. All the while he's staring, first at the shape and then at the legs as they disappear upstairs.

    BARTENDER: Another drink, sir?

    NICK: Can I just have the seltzer button to spray myself off? Yes, I'll take a Manhattan.

    As the bartender laughs, he begins preparing another drink and the picture fades... the Somerset logo reappears.

    Somerset... brought to you today by Cheer. Washes well in hot, warm and cold water. All-tempa Cheer... and by Camay, the soap that's like washing your face in cold cream. Available in unscented or scented.

    SCENE TWO
    At the Petterino kitchen table, Victoria is drinking milk while Rose finishes the paper.

    VICTORIA: Mom, have you or Dad ever had any run-ins with George Cleypool?

    ROSE: (Puts down the paper) Why do you ask, honey?

    VICTORIA: His son was in a motorcycle accident last night. I hear he lit into the driver who supposedly caused the accident... then this morning his son banged his shin on the hospital bed and suffered an ankle injury. You'd think we committed malpractice or something.

    ROSE: George Cleypool is not a nice man. The sooner you know that, the better.

    VICTORIA: (Surprised by Rose's comments) Did he ever do anything to you or Dad?

    ROSE: No, but I don't like his tone when it comes to improvements for Somerset. Giovanni is solidly on Jack Martin's side when it comes to the new Somerset vision.

    VICTORIA: Looks like Mr. Cleypool doesn't have an ally in town.

    ROSE: Oh, he does. But I think Jack has more of a leg to stand on.

    VICTORIA: (Finishes milk) His son seems nicer. He's almost embarrassed at how his father acts from time to time.

    ROSE: I would be too. (As she puts the paper back up to read, the scene changes)

    CUT TO: Giovanni's, where Scott and Mike are sitting at the bar having finished dinner. Mike is nursing a beer when he sees Alana walk in.

    SCOTT: Is this my cue to scram?

    MICHAEL: No, you can stay here and vouch for me. (Motions Alana, who smiles and comes over)

    ALANA: I see this is where the crime reporters hang out? (Shakes Scott's hand) Hello, Lt. Garfield. Is he bothering you?

    SCOTT: No, not at all, Alana. Have a seat and relax.

    ALANA: Thank you. Don't mind if I do... sit, that is. Relax, I'm not sure.

    SCOTT: I'm going to go over and say hi to Jack for a bit. Have fun, you two. (Scott smiles devilishly at Michael and walks over to Jack and Susannah's table)

    MICHAEL: Now why do you suppose he went and did that?

    ALANA: Cut the act, Wagner. How much did you pay him?

    MICHAEL: (Feigns shock) Alana Singleton, you wound me deeply. You must have gotten my note. When do I get a drink thrown in my face?

    ALANA: I never said I'd throw the drink in your face, Wagner. Maybe pour it over your head to cool you off...

    MICHAEL: All I said in my note was asking you to meet me for a drink, nothing more.

    ALANA: And I'm here, aren't I? (Smiles) You are a hard guy to understand. Did you think I was going to chew your head off?

    MICHAEL: Well... (gulps) the thought did cross my mind.

    ALANA: I may have told you... and others... that I'm not ready for a relationship with anyone, but it doesn't mean I can't have a good time.

    MICHAEL: (Looks relieved) I'll take your word on that.

    CUT TO: Another bar, this one in Washington, where Nick is watching the game and scouring the staircase for the mystery woman to come down.

    NICK: (Drinks) Wonder if she was pulling my leg?

    BARTENDER: Naaa, I don't think so. I've got a good view of that staircase and I haven't seen her come down.

    NICK: The game's almost over, that's why I was wondering.

    BARTENDER: I'm sure she'll... wait, I see her now.

    As Nick turns, he sees the woman draped around the arms of another guy.

    NICK: I figured it was too good to be true.

    (The picture fades to black)

    We'll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE THREE
    The scene is directly picked up from before the break, as Nick turns back to his drink. What he doesn't see is the young woman hugging the guy and he walks out. The woman bounds down the stairs and back into the bar.

    WOMAN: Miss me?

    NICK: (Turns, a bit surprised) I thought you were leaving the bar.

    WOMAN: What.. with that guy? Heck no, I was just saying goodbye. Bartender, another vodka tonic.

    BARTENDER: Are you sober enough, both of you?

    NICK: I'm fine.

    WOMAN: There was plenty of food upstairs. It'll wreck my diet, but...

    NICK: Puh-leeze. With that figure?

    WOMAN: (Looks a little incredulous, in a good way) What are you implying, hot stuff? That I have a killer body?

    NICK: I never said any such thing. (Smiles) Now the red hair, that's another story.

    WOMAN: You keep this up and I might have to believe it. (Drinks her vodka) I just wanted to come down and have another drink before I took off.

    NICK: So soon?

    WOMAN: The party's breaking up upstairs. How are the Marlins doing?

    NICK: Still trailing, 4-3.

    WOMAN: Damn. That'll teach me to follow a team like Florida. (There is a commotion behind Nick and the woman)

    NICK: What's going on?

    WOMAN: (The woman turns to see her friends) Now?

    NICK: Do you have to go?

    WOMAN: I'm afraid so. (Leans in and whispers in Nick's ear) I had a real good time. It was a pleasure talking to you. (She runs her fingernails down Nick's right arm)

    NICK: Wait... (He locks his hand with the woman's right hand)

    UNIDENTIFIED MAN: Come on, the party's just starting.

    UNIDENTIFIED WOMAN: You coming or not?

    WOMAN: (Holding Nick's hand tightly before she breaks loose and blows a kiss to Nick) Go Marlins.

    NICK: (Realizing the opportunity slipping away) Go Nats.

    The woman joins her friends and they rush out of the bar, but not without her looking inside through the glass. Nick, nursing his drink, realizes what just happened.

    BARTENDER: Man, that's tough. Need a refill?

    NICK: No, hit me. (Motions to the seltzer trigger)

    The bartender takes the seltzer trigger and pulls it, spraying Nick's face with water as the picture fades to black and the Somerset 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, as Salem deals with the death of a beloved heroine. Weekdays on SONBC. The preceding program was pre-recorded.
  21. sungrey
    (The screen turns white as the town of Somerset is drawn line by line and the music swells to a climax)

    This... is Somerset.

    SCENE ONE
    The story for today opens up in Jack Martin's office, where Susannah has just asked Jack point-blank whether or not her father had any influence in Jack asking Susannah to come work at Martin Enterprises.

    JACK: I don't get it, Susannah. You seemed so gung-ho about the job when we talked over dinner and NOW you have questions?

    SUSANNAH: (Sits down as Jack takes a seat at his desk) I don't mean to come across as harsh, Jack. I've told Dad I have to make it on my own, like I did as a corporate lawyer, and I don't want him calling in any favors. I'm going to be 40 in a few years. I have to start fighting my own battles.

    JACK: Come on, Susannah. We all know 40 is the new 30. Think young.

    SUSANNAH: Ha ha.

    JOANNE: (Entering office) Here you go, Miss Lucas.

    SUSANNAH: Thanks, Joanne. (Sips coffee) Hmm. Strong coffee, that's a plus.

    JACK: (Grabs notepad and pretends to take notes) Likes strong coffee... is a bit bullheaded...

    SUSANNAH: Oh, I'm bullheaded, huh?

    JACK: Just like your mom used to be. All kidding aside, Susannah, Sam did wonder how my staffing levels were, but I told him I was asking you to come work for me anyway. I need a lot of legal help with Martin Enterprises. I'm marshaling my forces to combat a possible fight with the Cleybank Corporation over the future of this city.

    SUSANNAH: Is it that bad?

    JACK: Oh, the city will survive. Don't get me wrong. It survived me almost killing it with my boneheaded move of selling Delaney Brands to Continental Foods. It was a very dark day when the cannery plant came down. But it was a brighter day when all those homes sprouted up and Grant's Preserve was born.

    SUSANNAH: And I've got the skills you need?

    JACK: I can put you on retainer and have you do legal work for me when you're not out getting clients. What do you say?

    SUSANNAH: Well... if Dad had nothing to do directly with setting this up... (smiles and outstretches her hand) You've got yourself a new lawyer.

    JACK: That's the spirit. Welcome to Martin Enterprises.

    (Jack shakes Susannah's hand and the two smile, as the picture fades to black and the Somerset logo reappears)

    Somerset... is brought to you today by dark, sparkling Folger's coffee. The coffee that tastes as rich as it looks... and by Scope, the mouthwash that leaves your breath minty fresh, not mediciney.

    SCENE TWO
    At Giovanni's Restaurant, night is starting to fall on Somerset as Mike is at the bar nursing a cold brew with Lt. Garfield. Susannah is with Jack at another table enjoying a celebratory dinner. The first conversation takes place at the bar.

    MIKE: If crime in Somerset is so low, Lt. Garfield, I guess we don't need a police chief... right?

    SCOTT: Watch it. See if I let you have exclusives ever again.

    MIKE: I'll behave. (Drinks beer) By the way, we had a call come into our office about graffiti down by the riverfront. That true?

    SCOTT: Unfortunately, yes. We've had trouble keeping people away from the dilapidated buildings. Old Somerset has had some casualties in terms of office and retail space.

    MIKE: This is what I don't understand. If there's such a problem down by the riverfront, has there been any thought given to urban renewal? Tearing down and starting over?

    SCOTT: Careful. (Motions toward Jack) You don't want Jack to hear you saying that.

    MIKE: Are you saying... his Project X or whatever the hell you call it involves restoration?

    SCOTT: He's very private about his plans. You know that. He's trying to marshal together enough forces to push the renovation plans through. He wants -- hell, we all want -- all of downtown to be as vital as possible.

    The back doors open and Giovanni comes out with a bowl of fettucine alfredo for Scott and a dish of veal parmesan for Mike.

    GIOVANNI: Mangia, gentlemen, eat up. By the way, Scott, guess who we heard from today.

    SCOTT: (Face brightens) I'm going to guess it's Somerset's favorite model?

    GIOVANNI: Rose got a lengthy e-mail from Annabella... she's likely coming home for a little while before she goes back to Italy for some more work.

    SCOTT: Good for you! Now if you could only get your three children under one roof at one time.

    MIKE: That's good news, Giovanni. I always thought Annabella was drop-dead... (Giovanni turns to give the Petterino evil eye) smart?

    GIOVANNI: That's better. (Laughs)

    CUT TO: Susannah and Jack's table, where Susannah is sipping a cocktail while Jack is salting his dinner.

    JACK: Thank you for letting me take my newest employee out to dinner for a celebration. Have you given any thought about when you'd like to start?

    SUSANNAH: I was hoping to get a few things squared away at home first before I introduced work into my life here, but I can start whenever you'd like me.

    JACK: How about middle of next week? If you need more time... (cell phone rings, and Jack looks at the ID) Hold that thought. (Presses button) Hello, Nicholas!

    CUT TO: A bar in the Washington area, where Nick has gone to unwind following a long day.

    NICK: You actually were right, Jack. There were some interesting things to learn at this convention. I've got some stuff to bring back to Somerset.

    JACK: See, I told you! I've been to those seminars and conventions in Washington.

    NICK: Well, actually, I'm at this bar now and I'm just going to unwind for a bit and have a couple beers with dinner. There's a big party going on in an upstairs room here and the more I avoid the crowds the better off I'll be.

    JACK: Good to hear. Have a good night, my friend.

    NICK: Hopefully, I will.

    As Nick says his last words to Jack, the camera focuses in on the staircase behind the bar. We see a shot of a woman from the waist down, slender in figure and wearing what appears to be a black dress, descending the stairs. The picture fades to black.

    We'll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE THREE
    We fade back in on Giovanni's, where Jack is toasting Susannah.

    JACK: To the newest employee of Martin Enterprises. May you have a long and prosperous career with my company. (Clinks Susannah's glass)

    SUSANNAH: Hear hear. (Sips champagne) Mmmmm. The good stuff.

    JACK: Well, I'm not quite a Cristal man... nor am I Dom Perignon. I built my fortune by being a bit more frugal.

    SUSANNAH: This works. I better quit before I have a repeat of what happened at dinner before.

    JACK: (Laughs) We'll make sure you get home in one piece this time.

    CUT TO: The bar in Washington, where Nick is watching TV as the Nationals are playing baseball.

    NICK: Bartender... another Manhattan?

    BARTENDER: Coming right up.

    We see the young woman, this time shown in full view, noticing there is a TV at the bar. The woman, who has long, flaming ruby red hair, takes the seat next to Nick.

    WOMAN: So who's winning... Nats or Marlins?

    NICK: (Turns and smiles) I'm impressed. A woman who knows her baseball.

    WOMAN: (Looks down at what Nick is drinking) A man who's not afraid to drink the hard stuff. Up for a little company?

    The woman smiles, full red lips and all.

    NICK: I can't turn down a smile like that.

    BARTENDER: What are you drinking, Miss?

    WOMAN: Vodka tonic, please. (Reaches for her purse)

    Nick signals the bartender and points at his napkin, as if to say it's on his tab. The woman smiles and watches the ballgame, with Nick looking a little transfixed as the picture fades and the Somerset credits roll.

    Join us each weekday at this time for the continuing story of Somerset. And on most of these same computers, be sure to enjoy Point Palace, weekdays on SONBC. The preceding program was pre-recorded.



  22. sungrey
    (The screen turns white as the town of Somerset is drawn line by line on the screen, and the music swells)

    This... is Somerset.

    SCENE ONE
    The words "Washington D.C." appear on the screen as we see stock footage of the city with the Capitol building and Pennsylvania Avenue in the foreground. The scene dissolves to a hotel room, where Nick is on his cell phone dialing someone. The word "hello" gives away that Nick is dialing Jack Martin.

    NICK: Just wanted to let you know I'm among the living down here... if the seminars aren't putting me to sleep, that is.

    JACK: (Sitting at his desk with coffee, scanning some sheets) And a good afternoon to you too! You left yesterday to get down there and I didn't have a chance to say goodbye before you did.

    NICK: (Looking out window) Ah, don't worry about it. You had your hands full with your dinner guests. Everything OK there?

    JACK: Oh yeah, everything's fine. Sam and Lahoma left earlier today and I still haven't heard if anything went wrong. I did hear Zachary banged up his ankle, though.

    NICK: Dear Lord, I hope it wasn't a result of the car accident. George will never let Susannah forget that.

    JACK: Don't worry about that. You leave Susannah and George and company to me. You just bring back some knowledge on how to further your political career.

    NICK: How can Somerset's youngest city manager go even further? It would involve leaving the area.

    JACK: You could run for anything... mayor of Somerset, if they'd decide to create a mayor's position. You could run for state office. You could be a US senator.

    NICK: I can dream about that, right?

    JACK: Hey, at least you've lived in this state all your life. How long does the seminar go?

    NICK: There's some stuff tonight and tomorrow. In all seriousness, it's all right, if you call seminars for city managers your cup of tea.

    JACK: Well, by all means, have fun in Washington and make sure you sample some of the nightlife tonight.

    NICK: I may sneak out and grab a drink. The Nationals are playing Florida tonight, so I might head to a bar and watch the game.

    JACK: That's the spirit. Let me know how things go, OK?

    NICK: You bet. Take care. (Hangs up) If I don't die of boredom first. (Laughs to himself as he sips coffee)

    (The music builds as the picture fades to black and the Somerset logo reappears)

    Somerset. Brought to you today by Ivory soap, the soap without a lot of extra ingredients. For a pure and natural kind of clean, lather up with Ivory.

    SCENE TWO
    The outside of Somerset Hospital appears, as we fade in on Zachary's room. Patrick is examining Zachary's ankle.

    PATRICK: Zach, I didn't know you wanted to stay here so much. Here you were all set to leave our care, and...

    ZACHARY: And like an idiot, I stumbled. I think I may have twisted my ankle in the accident and just aggravated it banging the ankle against the bed.

    (An off-camera voice can be heard yelling "where is my son?")

    ZACHARY: Oh God, the cavalry's here. (Covers face with hands) Get ready.

    GEORGE: (Coming in yelling) What the hell did you do to my son? (Yells at Patrick) You call yourself a doctor?

    PATRICK: Mr. Cleypool, need I remind you this is a hospital?

    GEORGE: Is it? I thought I walked into the country club. (Looks at Zachary) The last I knew you were supposed to be discharged this morning following your accident.

    ZACHARY: And I'm still being discharged, Dad. Just a bit later on today. They're running a few tests.

    GEORGE: (Looks at Patrick and Victoria, who just walked in the room) And then he can go, right? Away from any further poking and prodding...

    ZACHARY: Dad... I did this on my own. I just used the bathroom and banged my shin against the bed on the way out.

    GEORGE: I should take that motorcycle away from you... (catches what he said) but I can't because you're free and over 21 years old.

    ZACHARY: You keep thinking I'm a child, in other words.

    GEORGE: Well, get the hell out of that bed as soon as you can. I'm just headed upstairs for a board meeting.

    PATRICK: Mr. Cleypool, by the time your meeting is over, your son should be ready to go.

    GEORGE: Good. (Turns and walks out of the room)

    VICTORIA: (Swallows and gulps a bit) Your dad always like that?

    ZACHARY: I'm sorry you had to see that. You actually helped me out this morning when I fell.

    VICTORIA: All in a day's work. I'll be back in shortly.

    (Victoria goes out to the nurses station, where the phone rings)

    VICTORIA: (Picks up) Fourth floor, Nurse Petterino? (Alana walks into the scene and checks her mail cubicle as Victoria is on the phone writing down information. As Alana reads the note Victoria's voice picks back up) OK, I'll make sure Dr. Kettering gets this note immediately. Thank you. (Puts down phone, looks up and smiles) Reading your latest love note?

    ALANA: (Shakes her head) Don't tell me you read this. If you did...

    VICTORIA: I certainly did not. If he's whispering sweet nothings to you... (giggles)

    ALANA: (Whacks Victoria over head with cardboard folder) See if I ever invite you over for mint chocolate chip ice cream again. For your information, Tori, he just wondered if I'd be free for coffee some night this week. And if not, he'd be happy to come to the hospital for coffee in the cafeteria.

    VICTORIA: Well, isn't that nice. Sounds like all he wants is to have a little coffee with his favorite nurse.

    ALANA: I think the boy is lovesick.

    VICTORIA: After some of what you told me last night... I think you might be too.

    (Victoria gets an incredulous look on her face as the picture fades to black)

    We'll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE THREE
    The scene is a direct pickup from before the break.

    VICTORIA: Did I strike a nerve?

    ALANA: No, no, you didn't. Is it that obvious? Tori, I can get along just fine without someone in my life. You're doing just fine.

    VICTORIA: I didn't say you had to marry the guy now, did I?

    ALANA: No, you didn't. It just seems like ever since Mike got roughed up a bit when there was that protest demonstration downtown and I checked him out, he's been smitten.

    VICTORIA: I don't think he's smitten, Alana. He just wants to share a cup of joe with his favorite nurse.

    ALANA: I should see if Taylor's looking for a date. (Laughs)

    (Victoria laughs too, shaking her head and thinking Alana is missing out)

    CUT TO: Jack Martin's office, where his phone buzzes.

    JACK: (Picks up) Yes, Joanne? (Face brightens) Ahhh, good! Send her right in, please.

    The door opens and we see Susannah enter the room.

    JOANNE: Would you like anything, Miss Lucas?

    SUSANNAH: A coffee would be nice, thanks.

    JOANNE: Jack, are you OK?

    JACK: I'll have what she's having, thanks. (The door closes) Susannah, how are you?

    SUSANNAH: Doing well. Mom and Dad are off to Oklahoma, so I can safely ask you this one question. Did Dad ask you to hire me?

    (Jack looks shocked that Susannah asked him, as the music builds and the picture fades. The Somerset 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 Return to Santa Barbara, weekdays on SONBC. The preceding program was recorded.






  23. sungrey
    Hey everyone... hope you're enjoying the continuing story of Somerset. Just a quick note that the ninth episode of the program will be posted Thursday late afternoon due to prior commitments. The 10th episode, which features a nice little cliffhanger at the end, will be posted overnight Friday.


  24. sungrey
    (The screen turns white as the town of Somerset is drawn line-by-line on the screen, and the music swells to its climax...)

    This... is Somerset.

    SCENE ONE
    It is morning in Somerset, and the first scene of the day takes place at Grant's Preserve. Susannah is at the front door bidding goodbye to her parents.

    LAHOMA: Call if you need an ear to bend, would you?

    SAM: Or e-mail. Your mom forgets there are other ways to stay in touch.

    LAHOMA: Sam Lucas, if I didn't know any better I'd swear you were trying to cut the cord.

    SUSANNAH: Mom, Dad... I can take care of myself. And besides, Jack's pledged to keep an eye on me.

    SAM: Speaking of which, have you decided on Jack's job offer?

    SUSANNAH: I haven't decided completely, but I'm leaning toward saying yes. (Checks watch) You guys better get going if you want to get back to Oklahoma City. Your flight's in how many hours?

    LAHOMA: Later this afternoon out of Philadelphia. Sam will be back in court tomorrow.

    SAM: They can even start that case without me. I've got good associate help.

    SUSANNAH: All right. (Gets a bit misty-eyed) You guys... I'm going to miss having you here.

    LAHOMA: We're a phone call away.

    SAM: Or an IM. (Winks)

    LAHOMA: You and your technology.

    The Lucases wave goodbye to their daughter, and she goes back inside to make a phone call to Jack. Before she can get to the phone, there is a knock at the door.

    SUSANNAH: (Runs back to door and opens) Did you guys forget something?

    PATRICK: (Peeks out from behind flowers) No, but it looks like my housewarming gift is only going to be seen by one person instead of three.

    (Susannah smiles as she sees the flowers, and the picture fades to black before coming back with the Somerset logo)

    Somerset. Brought to you today by the cosmetics of easy, breezy, beautiful Cover Girl.

    SCENE TWO
    At Somerset Hospital, Victoria is starting her nurse's shift and is at the front desk. She's speaking with another nurse, Taylor Kendrick, about her ice cream social with Alana the night before.

    VICTORIA: It was the least I could do.

    TAYLOR: Hey, you've got the right idea. If you can't get ahead in your job then (laughing) bribe the head nurse.

    VICTORIA: It wasn't a bribe, honest! Alana's like family to the Petterinos and she's always said she's a bit lonely when she goes home at night.

    TAYLOR: I know. We've taken turns inviting Alana places. Men have bought her drinks. She appreciates the attention but I don't know if she's ready to move on yet.

    VICTORIA: I know one guy who would like to take her mind off of work. (Smiles) What's going on so far?

    TAYLOR: That room over there... (Points toward the corner) The patient in there is being discharged today if everything works out. Might want to give him a once-over.

    VICTORIA: On my way. (She walks toward the corner and we see that it is Zachary's room. Zachary is lightly asleep as Victoria comes in.)

    ZACHARY: (Awakens) Thank God, does this mean I'm getting out of here?

    VICTORIA: One second. (Hooks up blood pressure cuff)

    ZACHARY: Why are you checking me out there? I feel fine.

    VICTORIA: You may feel fine, but I'm the authority where that's concerned.

    ZACHARY: Since when? (Catches what he said) Never mind. I trust you. Fire away.

    VICTORIA: Now just be still. (Waits a bit) Any discomfort or pain since the accident last night? What happened anyway?

    ZACHARY: Oh, it was nothing. I was riding my motorcycle into Somerset to meet some friends and I had to swerve because I was in the way of a car.

    VICTORIA: I see. No pain in your extremities?

    ZACHARY: Just a couple bumps and scrapes. Wanna check those out?

    VICTORIA: I'll trust you. Let me hand off this chart to the attending and you'll probably get sprung here in the next hour.

    ZACHARY: Good. No offense, but I'll take my home over Somerset Hospital any day now.

    VICTORIA: I understand completely. Think of how I feel having to be here every day...

    ZACHARY: Yes, but you're getting paid for it.

    VICTORIA: So true. (Grabs chart and smiles when she leaves the room) So true.

    Zachary is sitting up in bed and looking a little impatient about when he wants to leave as the scene changes.

    CUT TO: Grant's Preserve, where Susannah is setting the flowers Patrick brought on the dining room table.

    SUSANNAH: I'll have to tell Mom and Dad you stopped by. You just missed them... or did you plan it that way?

    PATRICK: Hey now. I intended to come over to bid your parents farewell and wish them a good trip back to Oklahoma, but I must have been a bit late.

    SUSANNAH: No problem. (Goes toward the refrigerator) Want something to drink?

    PATRICK: Got a cold pop?

    SUSANNAH: I think so. I did some shopping for the basics. (Checks the fridge) And pop was one of them. Catch.

    PATRICK: (Surprised as Susannah throws the can, and he drops it) Guess I'll have to wait until the fizz disappears inside. I didn't know you had a rocket arm like that.

    SUSANNAH: I wasn't all books and nerdy-looking sunglasses in school. Which you wouldn't have known because you went to school in Arizona.

    PATRICK: What's that have to do with your law career?

    SUSANNAH: Ace pitcher, Bailey Grove High School Red Devils, Oklahoma City. Won the state title in my junior year.

    PATRICK: Ah, a softball pitcher in our midst. Might have to recruit you for the hospital's ball team.

    SUSANNAH: And what makes you think I'd play?

    PATRICK: What's it called, networking?

    SUSANNAH: You sound like Jack Martin. He uses that word a lot.

    PATRICK: (Laughs) I see you met the great, the powerful, Wizard of Somerset.

    SUSANNAH: Not only met him, he offered me a job at Martin Enterprises in legal. He knew my corporate law background.

    PATRICK: Darn. The hospital could have used an attorney like you.

    SUSANNAH: Well, we'll be traveling in the same circles now, won't we?

    PATRICK: I guess. Wait until I tell Mom and Dad who returned to Somerset.

    SUSANNAH: You might be too late. Stanley was going to get in touch with Sam on a personal call and I'm sure that will be the first words out of Sam's mouth.

    PATRICK: Look out, Somerset. Susannah Lucas is here!

    (Susannah laughs as she takes a drink of pop and the picture fades to black)

    We'll return to Somerset in just a moment.

    SCENE THREE
    At Somerset Hospital, Mike has stopped by to check in on Zachary's condition for a small story in the paper.

    MIKE: (Writing on notepad) No complications?

    VICTORIA: I can't really say anything... privacy issues... but you didn't hear from me that he's doing okay. He'll be leaving later this morning.

    MIKE: Good. Another crisis averted for the Cleybank Corporation.

    VICTORIA: You'll have this in tomorrow?

    MIKE: Yes. Obviously, if something changes, I'll check in with the hospital. (Digs in his pocket) While I'm at it, though, I might as well combine business with personal. (Produces note) Can you give this to a certain female?

    VICTORIA: (Holds note to body) Ooooo, I feel like I'm back in junior high school passing notes around the class. I'll make sure she gets this in her cubicle.

    MIKE: Thank you, my dear. I'll be at the office and I might check in later in the day.

    VICTORIA: Okay, Mike. Have a good day.

    MIKE: You too. (Hops on elevator as the doors close)

    VICTORIA: (Looks at note) You don't know how lucky you are.

    She puts the note in a cubicle. As she removes her hand, the camera catches the mailbox area and we see the note is meant for Alana.

    CUT TO: Zachary's hospital room.

    Zachary has gotten up and used the bathroom. We see him go back out toward the bed, but he bangs his ankle on the bedside. He grimaces in pain and stumbles, falling down by the bed.

    ZACHARY: (Trying to get up, he feels like a hot poker is pressing against his right ankle) God... (Grimaces) Now you've done it, Zachary Cleypool.

    It is obvious Zachary has broken something or at the very least suffered a bigger injury than he already had. As the picture fades to black, we see Zachary trying to stand.

    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 as a dramatic twist unfolds on Salem Lives. Weekdays on SONBC. This program was pre-recorded.
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