Stage Play / FEET (Analysis)

FEET.

SCENE ONE
Maggie with her shopping walking carefully along. As Connor walks along he sees her from behind and starts to speed up. As he gets closer she slows down and puts her bags down. As she does, Connor swoops in from behind.

Maggie: (hits out with her bag) Don’t touch me you little…

Connor: Mum! What are you doing?

Maggie: Jees! You frightened the life out of me!

Connor: Sorry Mum. I didn’t mean to scare you but what are you doing? You’re supposed to be resting.

Maggie: There’s only so much resting you can do son. I’m fine honest.

Connor: Yeh, well you don’t look fine.

Maggie: Well thank you son. That’s made me feel a whole lot better.

Connor: I didn’t mean it like that. Come on, let’s get you home. I’ll make you a nice cup of tea.

Maggie: I’m your Mum, Connor, not your Gran!

Connor holds his arm out for Maggie to link him.

Maggie: I can manage, you know.

Connor: I know.

Maggie links his arm. There is touching warmth between them. They walk on.

Connor: Give me your bag.

Maggie does as asked.

Connor: Fucking hell!

Maggie: (lightening speed cuff round his ears) Oi language!

Connor: Sorry. Jees, what’ve you got in here?

Maggie: A brick from our back yard.

Connor: Mum!

Maggie: Relax; I couldn’t carry a full one… Besides it wouldn’t fit in my bag. I just put a broken chunk in.

Connor: Mum, you can’t go round hitting people with bricks.

Maggie: I don’t! But if some little shite thinks he can mess with me…

Connor: Proper hard nut you, aren’t ya?

Maggie: And don’t you forget it! Never mind me, what’ve you been up to today?

Connor: Nothing much. Why?

Maggie: No reason… Isn’t that young Shelley’s house?

Connor: Don’t know.

Maggie: Course you don’t. I saw her in the shop earlier.

Connor: Who?

Maggie: Shelley! She works there on a Saturday now. Nice girl. She’s done a good job with her, has Maureen. She’s not had it easy, bringing up three lads and a girl by herself. Never had the police round…trouble or anything. We had a little chat…

Connor: You and Maureen?

Maggie: No not me and Maureen... Me and Shelley.

Connor: Yeh?

Maggie: She was asking after you.

Connor: Yeh? (Pause) What she say?

Maggie: Oh you know… The usual stuff when you want someone to know they’re interested.

Connor: Mum!

Maggie: What? You like her don’t you?

Connor: Who says?

Maggie: My joints are dodgy son, not my eyes.

Connor: She’s ok.

Maggie: Ok?! A cheese sandwich is ok…

Connor: Mum, I…

Maggie: I’m just saying…She’s a nice girl, she likes you, I mean, what’s not to like? She’s not daft…

Connor: Mum!

Maggie: Exactly, I’m your Mum…I’m allowed.

Connor: Can we change the subject?

Maggie: Okay! ...You could do a lot worse… Ok, not another word, my lips are sealed.

Connor and Maggie stop outside their front door. Connor puts the bags down and unlocks the door. He lets his Mum in first then follows.

Connor: You really think she likes me?
BLACKOUT

SCENE TWO
A Prison visiting room.

A row of individual table with men seated behind each one…some are already with their visitor/s, others still waiting for them. Connor’s older brother Liam is with Karl.

Liam: Did he want to come?

Karl: Yeah.

Liam: How is he?

Karl: He’s alright.

Liam: What? Karl. What?

Karl: Nah, he’s a good kid your Connor. It was just a bit ....well you know.

Liam: No I don’t know, ’mate’, I’m stuck in here, so why don’t you tell me?

Karl: It’s your Mum…

Liam: She ok?

Karl: Yeah…

Liam: Then what?

Karl: She had a couple of falls this last week...

Liam: Falls? Did you get the doctor in?

Karl: You know what your Mums like about that.

Liam: You should have still got them in. You’re supposed to be looking after her!

Karl: And I am, but she’s a proud woman your Mum.

Liam: You sure she’s ok?

Karl: Shook her up a bit but yeah, she’s ok. I thought it best Connor stay with her. He gave me a letter to give you though. Had to leave it with one of them…Probably get it later.

Liam: Thanks.

Karl: So, how you doin?

Liam: What do you think?

Karl: Look mate, I appreciate what you did for me but I didn’t ask you to...

Liam: Don’t fuckin give me that…You don’t grass up your mates.

Karl: Like I said, I appreciate it, really I do, which is why I’m taking care of yours, just like I said.

Liam: How’s he doin?

Karl: He’ll survive.

Liam: I know he took it hard. I’m glad he’s got you watching out for him.

Karl: Might help if you let him visit.

Liam: I don’t want him to see all this… Me, in here. S’no good for him.

Karl: What about your Mum?

Liam: It’s no place for her this.

Karl: She’s your Mum.

Liam: I don’t want her seeing me in here… not like this. It was bad enough with me Dad.

Karl: Better for her not knowin’ how you are then, hey? Thinkin’ you don’t give a shit?

Liam: She’ll understand. It’s easier this way.

Karl: For who? People talk Lee. She’s ain’t daft! You think your ways easy? Her thinkin you don’t want to see her?

Liam: Look, its bad enough Connor wants to come. You said it yourself, Connor’s a good lad. He’s not like you and me. Takes after his Mum. Sensitive. I don’t want him getting into any shit, d’you hear me?

Karl: Yeah

Liam: You hear me?

Karl: Yeah, I fucking hear ya, I hear ya every on every visit, I’m looking after them.

Liam: Right. How you doin?

Karl: I’ve bin keepin my head down since….we’ll y’know. I do a bit of stuff on the quiet. Solo, no-one else. Don’t worry I keep it out of your house.

Liam: Good, I don’t want Connor anywhere near it.

Karl: He won’t.

Liam: I mean it! That kids gonna have a future and it ain’t gonna be in here. He wouldn’t last five minutes in here.

Karl: He’s tougher than he looks, Lee…Tougher than you think.

Liam: I don’t care. This place messes with your head. …Maybe it’s a good thing …gives you time to think.

Karl: You’re getting soft in your old age mate.

Liam: You think I’m kidding.
Karl: What?!

Liam: You think coz I’m in here, I can’t do anything?

Karl: You and me go way back, Lee. Trust me! It’s gonna be ok.

Liam: Cheers.

Pause

Karl: Suppose I better be going. The buses are crap. I promised your Mum I’d bring her back something nice for her tea.

Liam: She knows you’re here?

Karl: Course not. I promised her that’s all.

Liam: Right.

Karl: Take it easy mate. (Handshakes etc and just as Karl is leaving…)

Liam: Karl. What we just talked about, If I hear any different. Y’ get me ‘mate’!

The two share a look, then Karl leaves, flexing his hand.

SCENE THREE

Scene opens with Connor in his bedroom, listening to his music and getting ready to go out. He is meeting up with Shelley and is both nervous and excited, ‘posing’ in front of the mirror.

A crash is heard, lights up on the kitchen. Maggie is on the kitchen floor, surrounded by broken crockery, a can opener and baked beans.

Mum: Bloody hell!

Connor: Mum, Mum! Are you alright?

Mum: I’m ok love, don’t panic.

Connor: Can you move? Did you bang your head? D’you feel dizzy? How many fingers am I holding up?

Mum: Give over.

Connor: Have you broken anything?

Mum: One of the good plates.

Connor: You know what I mean.

Mum: Relax will you? I’m fine.

Connor: You will be when I get you back in that chair. Come here.

Mum: Stop fussing. I said I’m fine.

Connor: Come on, you know the drill. (Between the two of them, Connor helps Maggie back in her chair)

Mum: Thanks son.

Connor: You’re bleeding! (Goes to get the first aid biscuit tin from the kitchen cupboard)

Mum: Oh, it’s nothing. Damn tin opener! They don’t make things like they used to.

Connor: What were you doing Mum? You’re supposed to be resting.

Mum: So help me, if I hear that one more time. Oh, I’m sorry love… You don’t have much fun for a young lad, do you? Even when our Liam was around you were always there.

Connor: (brings the first aid biscuit tin and dresses her hand) Ahh, looks nasty that, Mum. We should have it looked at. Might need stitches.

Mum: Cheery little soul aren’t you?

Connor: I’m being serious.

Mum: Don’t be daft. Nothing a bit of sticky plaster won’t cure. There you see, sorted, my little worry wart.

Connor: We should get you to a doctor.

Mum: When I’ve got my own little doctor right here?

Connor: Could give you check over too. You’ve had a few falls lately.

Mum: Stop worrying about me, will you? I was just a clumsy sod. Must have slipped on a bit of wet. Could have happened to anyone.

Connor: You know, if you were hungry you should have said… I’d have made you something.

Mum: I know you would love but I wanted to make you a bit of something before you went out. You haven’t eaten all day…… What? You’re meeting up with Shelley aren’t you?

Connor: No.

Mum: Got your best shirt on for me then have you?

Connor: Change of plan.

Mum: Don’t give me that. Spray any more on and you’ll have the wallpaper off.

Connor: Is it too much?

Mum: Give over, I’m only messing. You look lovely.

Connor: Lovely?!

Mum: Cool… Hip… Sharp…Whatever you lot call it .

Connor: Doesn’t matter now anyway.

Mum: Hey, it’s not coz of this is it?

Connor: No.

Mum: Because I’m fine, I told you! I want you to go. You deserve something nice to happen for a change.

Connor: No mum, it’s not you.

Mum: Is everything ok love?

Connor: Yeh…yeh its fine Mum, She had to stay in.

Mum: Ah love, I’m sorry..

Connor: Nah, it’s ok. Another time, eh?

Mum: Yeh.

Connor: Right, I’ll just clear that lot up and put the kettle on, what do you say?

Mum: You’re a good lad. Tell you what, get the good biscuits out too, let’s go mad!

Connor: (dialing Shelley’s phone) Please, please be in, please don’t have left yet…Come on, pick up… come on…

Answer Machine: “Welcome to the messaging service…”

Connor: Oh great!

Answer Machine: “I’m sorry but the person you are calling is unable to take your call. Please leave your message after the tone. To re record your message, press hash at any time” (Beep!)

Connor: Hi, it’s me. Erm, I’m really sorry but er, I can’t meet you tonight. Erm, I’m really sorry but er… something’s come up and er, well, it’s er, well, look I’m sorry…(ends the call, embarrassed and angry with himself at the message. He sits down deflated)

The phone rings again.

Connor: Hello.

Lights up on Liam in Prison.

Liam: Hiya kid … ‘S me.

Connor: Yeh…I know.

Liam: Good to hear your voice kiddo. How ya doin?

Connor: Ok.

Liam: Got your letter, mate....thanks. How’s Mum?

Connor: She’s ok.

Liam: Ok? What’s all this about these falls?

Connor: How d’you know about them?

Liam: Doesn’t matter how…just tell me what happened.

Connor: She fell.

Liam: And?

Connor: She got back up again.

Liam: How is she?

Connor: Missing you.

Liam: Yeh …Well…er…I miss her too.

Connor: Do you?

Liam: What kind of talks that? Course I do.

Connor: So send her a visiting order…let us come and see you.

Liam: Ah come on…We’ve been through all this. It’s no place for you or Mum. It’s just better this way ok?

Connor: Who for? You?

Liam: Hey come on now, that’s not fair kiddo.

Connor: Stop calling me that…I’m not a kid.

Liam: No…You’re right. I’m sorry. You’re not a kid any more. You’re the man of the house now?

Connor: Yeah.

Liam: I mean it… I’m counting on you… understand?

Connor: Yes.

Liam: You’ve got to be strong. Watch your back, keep out of trouble, finish school, get a good job….are you listening?…Connor?

Connor: All the things you did yeah?

Liam: You’re not like me…I was stupid. There’s good in you Connor… and you’re smart…You’re like Mum… I’m proud of you.

Connor: Really?

Liam: Dead right little man.

Connor: Will you write to me?

Liam: Aw, Connor, I’m not good at things like th… Yeh…I’ll write.

Connor: You write Mum an’ all?

Liam: Don’t really think she’ll want me to…

Connor: She’ll want.

Liam: Ok. I’ll..er…do that . Look I’ve got to go, my times run out. If you need anything, anything at all, you or Mum, see Karl ok. He’ll see you right…He’ll look after you.

Connor: Yeh.

Liam: Bye bro, Take care. Love to Mum eh… That’s if..er… you think that’ll be ok.

Connor: She’ll like that. Take care br…(phone cuts off) ..Love you.
BLACKOUT

SCENE FOUR
A ‘State of the art’ flat. A room full of expensive items, computers, music centre, I-pods, DVD’s, CD’s, plasma TV, all state of the art technology, well equipped expensive drinks cabinet, well furnished, ‘trendy’ A group of young lads, relaxing and ‘enjoying the amenities’. Scene opens to ‘Mac the Knife’*…Connor, youngest member of the group is singing along, Nick, similar age, sitting with his feet on the settee, checking CD's, watching. Andy is making himself something to eat. Karl all seeing, all knowing but looks as though he’s just playing cards. All are drinking alcohol to different degrees… Whisky for Karl, can of lager/ beer for the others? It should look as if this flat is home to one of the group and he belongs there, whilst the others are his friends and are hanging out, ‘chilling’ … and yet there’s just something…..?
Andy goes up to the settee with his gi-normous sandwich…

Andy: What’s this shit? Haven’t you got any decent music? Oi gay boy Get your feet off there. (He sits, gets the remote control and switches on the television. Nick jumps up, Connor stops the music
and the singing)

Nick: It was good that, mate.

Andy: (Mimicking) ‘It was good that mate’

Nick: Ok, so what d’you want to hear?

Andy: What we got?

Nick: What we got Connor?

Connor: Nothing you’d like.

Andy: What’s that supposed to mean?

Connor: Nothing.

 

Andy: Shift. (Checks for himself) Old man, old man, old man… ‘Spanish Eyes’? What’s he on?...... what’s this… Spice girls?
Nick: They’re alright them…That Geri, well fit…
Connor: Before or after the comeback?
Nick: Either way…I’d rinse her out.
Andy: Mate…. I’m eating!
Nick: You’re always eating.
Andy: Shut up and put the kettle on, D’ya wanna brew? Nick’s putting the kettle on.
Nick: You do it!
Andy: Who are you talking too? (then to Connor) Oi gay boy, you’ll like this…men dancing…
Connor: Shut up!
Nick: Hey Andy, better watch it. He’ll have you.
Andy: Not if I have him first. (Mounts Connor and dry humps him).
Connor: Get off!
Andy: What d’you think Connor, heh? You love this don’t ya?
Connor: Get off dickead!
Connor turns away, Nick and Andy whooping and jeering.
Nick: (opens a drawer) Hey what we got here? (Pulls out an array of ‘adult’ toys)
Connor: No way!
Andy: Bet you don’t even know what they are?
Nick: I do. Your mam showed me. (laughs)
Andy laughs.
Andy: What about you, pretty boy?
Connor: Moron!
Andy: What d’you call me?
Karl: Oi! will you lot give it a rest!
Instant silence…They quietly carry on checking out the ‘toys’, playing about with them…
Andy: (Gets up. He has finished his sandwich and joins the others). I told you before, make us a brew.
Nick: Make a brew Connor.
Andy: (clips Nick round the ear) I said you, dickhead! (Nick stomps off) Two sugars…So what‘ve we got here then…? (Picks up a pair of handcuffs and other assorted items) Kinky Bastard…Like ‘em do you? bit out of your league mate.
Pause – Andy appears to smell something offensive.
Andy: ‘Kin ‘ell!
Nick: Mate!
Connor: It wan’t me
Nick: Ave you fuckin farted?
Andy: You’re disgusting you!
Nick: Aargh, that’s evil!
Andy: Since when has it bothered you ya smelly bastard?
Nick: Hey, I’ve a very sensitive nose me.
Andy and Nick share a rare laugh.
Connor: Your feet are very sensitive.
Andy: You what?
Nick: Your feet.
Andy: See how sensitive they are when I kick your smelly arse.
Connor: Straight up…In the old days they’d hang you barefoot from a tree and keep leading a goat under you so his horns tickled your soles.......Drove ‘em mad…said they’d tell you anything….
Andy: You’re off your head you!
Nick: Where d’ya hear that?
Connor: Mrs McGuire
Nick: Who?
Connor: This teacher…
Andy: They know fuck all ‘teachers’
Connor: (under his breath) Like you’d know…
Andy: You what?
Nick: (trying to defuse any confrontation) I’ll give it a go.
Andy What?
Nick mimes tickling the victims feet.
Connor: I ’m not touching his feet!
Andy: You’ll touch what I tell you, gay boy...and like it.
Karl: (blocks the two of them) Hey …be nice, our friend is ready to play.
They go to the bedroom and drag Paul, out. Paul has had his hands and feet bound with gaffer tape.
Karl: (snaps his fingers, the group stop and back off a little. He pulls up a chair and sits next to Paul) You ok? This is what we’re going to do…You play nice, we’ll take the tape off your mouth…Scream like a pussy…let’s just say …oh dear…ok? (Paul nods. Karl signals to Andy to remove tape. Andy rips it off with a vengeance. Paul is terrified.)
Karl: There now, feel better? Want some water? Get the man some water will you? (Andy gets some bottled water and sprays him with it. The others laugh.) Ah now come on lads, play fair, after all he is going to help us, aren’t you? Sorry, what’s your name?
Andy: You were asked a question.
Paul: P…P…P…
Nick: Can’t hear you mate.
Paul: P…Paul.
Andy: P…Paul….or is it Pauline, heh? Could be your lucky night? (Looks to Connor) Paul what?
Paul: L…Latimer.
Andy: So Pauline, d’you have a job? (Paul tries to answer) Course you do.
Nick: What d’you do?
Paul: I...I w.work in IT.
Andy: IT? Pays well does it? I bet it does don’t it. Not cheap this place.
Paul: It’s not mine…
Andy: Course it’s not…
Paul: L… Look, what do you want? Money? Take it. My wallet….
Andy: Is here. (Pulls the wallet from his pocket and counts the cards)
Nick: Twenty quid?! Where’s the rest?
Paul: I…It’s all I’ve got. (Nick punches Paul in the stomach)
Nick: Yeah, right!
Andy: Where’s the rest of it?
Paul: (reeling from the blow) It’s all I’ve got…
Nick: (To Connor) Get the scissors.
Paul: No, please…
Nick: What? (Connor brings the scissors) He’s only giving you a hair cut.
Connor: Give you something to talk about…Tell your friends… (Starts snipping but doesn’t cut)
Karl: You have friends, don’t you Pauline? (He looks at photos and signals to the others to put their hoods up and to Andy to take the blindfold off Paul) Nice friends too.
Nick: He your boyfriend Pauline?
Paul: (re focusing) He’s my brother.
Andy: Keep it in the family, eh?
Connor: Who’s this?
Paul: It’s his girlfriend.
Nick: Like her do you?
Andy: Oh Pauline, maybe I got you all wrong…do you swing both ways? Have you had her? You’ve had her haven’t you?
Connor: Who’s this?
Andy: She’s fit…D’you do her too?
Paul: She’s my sister.
Andy: Your own sister, dirty bastard…What’s this? (Sees chain round his neck)
Paul: Oh no, please don’t take that. I’ll give you anything you want, please; my Mum gave me th…
Andy: Shut the fuck up. (Turns and gives it to Karl)
Karl: Got good taste your Mum.
Paul: I’m getting that back.
Andy: Oh you are, are you big man? (Andy is right in Paul’s face, Paul nuts him, Nick thumps Paul, Connor jumps back. Andy goes to do Paul some serious damage as Karl intercedes)
Karl: Oi! easy... You… (To Connor) Put the blindfold back on.
Connor: (does so) Ugh, he spat on me hand!
Andy: (in Paul’s ear) You ever touch me again I’ll kill your sister, then your Mother…then you….get it? (thump)
Karl: Leave it! (sits next to Paul) You really shouldn’t have done that. You made him angry. He has a problem with anger.
Paul: What do you want?
Karl: I don’t want anything. You want to apologize to my friend here. You want to make it up to him. You want to tell me the pin number of all your cards, bank details, National Insurance number, everything.
Paul: I’m not telling you anything.
Karl: Ooh, wrong Answer! (Signals to the gang to thump him)
Paul: You may as well kill me now because I’m not telling you anything.
Andy: Might just do that.
Karl: I’ll ask you again…Pin numbers? (Paul starts smiling)
Nick: Think this is funny?
Andy: What the fuck are you laughing at? You laughing at me? (Paul laughing) Are you, you little shi…
Karl: Sshh! (Puts his hand on Andy and signals to him to get the pincers out of his bag) D’ you hear that Pauline?
Paul: What?
Karl: That clicking sound…
Paul: I can’t hear anything
Karl signals Andy to click the pincers, who then also starts tormenting Paul with them, clicking and stroking them along various vulnerable areas, ears, cheek, throat, genital area, etc.
Andy: Can you hear it now? (Paul nods)
Karl: Can’t hear you.
Paul: Y…Yes.
Karl: That’s good because that’s not a bad rhythm there for someone who’s tone deaf, don’t you think?
Paul: Hhmmn.
Karl: They should never have chucked him out of the school band. Drums wasn’t it?
Andy: Yeah.
Karl: Even as a child he loved hitting things. Was a hobby wasn’t it? You got a hobby Pauline?
Paul: What?
Karl: A hobby…you know, something you like doing...for fun. Smiler here, well we know what he likes doing….Me? I like collecting things. Now, some people collect stamps, rocks, shells, cars. Me, I collect digits. I usually like the little fingers best but it could be any, maybe even a toe, heh? (He signals to Connor to remove the blindfold and to Andy to hand the pincers to Connor. Karl to Connor...) Your turn.
Connor: No way.
Karl: It’s Your turn kid!
Connor: B…But
Andy: But nothing…You heard him.
Karl: I’ll make it simple for you. Either you do it or he, (Andy) does you…Your choice kid.
Nick: Go on.
Paul: Don’t listen to him lad, you’re better than that.
Connor: Shut up right…just shut up!
Karl: Gag him! (Nick and Andy gag Paul, Connor clips his little finger, Pauls’ scream is muffled) Now, let’s try again. (To Nick) Write ‘em down (Gets a pen and paper) this one. (Andy removes gag)
Paul: You’re insane! (Karl signals to Connor to clip the other finger…) 7291
Karl: That’s more like it. (To Nick) Did you get that?
Nick: (indignant) Yeh!
Andy: And these…?
Paul: 5363…1970…0078.
Karl: Good! Bank details, National Insurance Number…?
Paul: I don’t know…no, no honestly…I don’t know it off by heart… it’s on file on my computer.
Karl: Password?
Paul: Oh ple…ok, ok… Its err Goldfinger.
Andy: You havin a laugh?
Karl: See… wasn’t so bad was it? Third time lucky and all that?
Andy: Now we’re going to leave and check all this out. Better not have any problems, hey? Where are your car keys?
Paul: I haven’t got a car.
Nick: Do you wanna lose another fuckin finger?
Paul: No, really, I can’t drive, I came by taxi. I told you, I don’t live here.
Karl: Know where everything is though don’t you? So says ‘Dan the man’ (holds up the note from the hall table) ‘You know where everything is, Enjoy, Dan’ Where are the keys Pauline?
Paul: I don’t know.
Karl signals to Connor to clip another digit but Paul saved by….
Nick: Found them!
Andy: Nice one!
Nick: Orrrr! Look at this. (An expensive mobile) Sound.
Andy takes it off him and puts it in his pocket.
Nick: Hey…You can’t do that.
Andy: I just did. Come on, move!
Karl: You stay here and watch him…. Can you handle that?
Connor: Yeah.
Karl: Ok then. The rest of you ...let’s go! (They swagger out) Back in a bit. (Exit)
Connor and Paul are alone in the room. Connor paces uncomfortably round the room. Paul slumped in the chair initially then raises his eyes, observing Connor, reading his body language. Connor sees him looking….
Connor: What?
Paul: Nothing.
Connor: What you looking at?
Paul: I just…Could I have some water, please?
Connor reluctantly, awkwardly goes to get some water and brings it to Paul who shows he can’t really drink without his hands so needs Connor’s help. Connor puts the bottle to Paul’s lips and looks away.
Paul: Thank you…Nice watch.
Connor: You what?
Paul: Your watch…It’s nice
Connor: What you doin?
Paul: Nothing…Just trying to make conversa…
Connor: Well don’t...
Paul: I’m sorry.
An edgy silence, Connor is restless and uncomfortable, Paul continues to observe.
Connor: You’re doing it again!
Paul: What?
Connor: Don’t think I don’t know what you’re trying to do.
Paul: I’m not trying to do anyth…..
Connor: Just shut up right…shut up! Think coz it’s just me, you’ll be ok? Think you can talk me round or something?
Paul: I never th…
Connor: Well don’t, see?
Paul: Ok, ok… take it easy.
Connor: Don’t tell me what to do!
Paul: I’m sorry.
Connor: You will be if you don’t stop looking at me like you’re… you’re studying me or something … That’s it!
Paul: No please, I’m sor….
Connor puts the blindfold back on.
Connor: That’s better.
Pause
Paul: What are you doing with them lad?
Connor: Shut up will ya.
Paul: You’re not like them.
Connor: I said shut up! You don’t know nothing about me.
Paul: I know more than you think.
Connor: You what…?
Paul: You remind me of me at your age.
Connor: Yeah right…
Paul: No really…
Connor: You think I’m thick or something. I know what you’re trying to do…You’re trying to mess with my head…Think you can break me…
Paul: I’m only trying to….
Connor: Telling me stuff… how you turned your life around…What was it hey? D’ya find Jesus or something or was it the love of a good woman…?
Paul: I don’t know about Jesus but yes definitely the second one.
Connor laughs.
Paul: You can laugh, play the big ‘I am’ but we both know you’re not like that. Right now you’re scared an…
Connor: I’m not scared… Who says I’m scared? Of you? …Are you mad? I’m not the one tied to a chair bleeding and kakking himself..
Paul: You’re right…
Connor: Dead right, I’m right…We’re out there robbing your life and you’re here sitting in your own puke.
Paul: They’re out there alright but where are you?
Connor: You what?
Paul: They’ve got all the information they need. What makes you think they’re coming back?
Connor: Shut up!
Paul: They can just collect and run. They left you here, Why? Like you said, I’m tied to the chair blindfolded, bleeding. They could have gagged me, Who would have come by to check?
Connor: I said shut up!
Paul: It’s not my flat. My brother’s not due back for a couple of days, maybe weeks.
Connor: I said shut the fuck up will ya!
Paul: They left you. They’re not coming bac…
Connor: They’re coming back right. (Connor gets the gag and rams it into Paul’s mouth) They wouldn’t leave me….so you can just shut the fuck up! There! They’re coming back alright. If I were you I’d be praying that the numbers you gave them were right coz if not….
Connor paces restlessly round the room, peeps through the curtains, then paces again.
Pause
Paul starts coughing, struggling to get breath he begins to choke.
Connor: Hey, what you doing? What’s the matter with you? Stop it, ok…just stop it. I said stop it! Shit! (He rips the gag off. Paul coughs, then takes deep breathes) Here, it’s water…Have some water (Paul drinks. Connor throws the gag away)
Paul: Thank you.
Pause
Connor puts on some music and starts humming/singing along.
Paul: Didn’t think you’d like this kind of music.
Connor: It’s ok.
Paul: Not a bad voice.
Connor: Yeah right.
Paul: No seriously…Bit of training and practice…I’ve heard worse.
Connor: Training? Get real…
Paul: There’s always a way round if you want something lad.
Connor: Is that right?
Paul: Others have done it before you…You have to want it badly enough and you’re half way there.
Connor: What are you? My social worker? You don’t know what I want so shut up.
Paul: It’s not too late lad. You’ve got your whole life ahead of you…
Connor: Are you deaf or just stupid?
Paul: You think I don’t know…I was in and out of trouble when I was your age, no prospects, no future…bit of a cliché I know but I don’t know where I’d be now if it weren’t for Clare.
Connor: Bullshit!
Paul: She turned my life around…made me believe I could make something of myself…
Connor: You want to bottle what you’re on mate…
Paul: Don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it.
Connor: A girl did all that!
Paul: Not just any girl…has to be the right one.
Connor: How do you know it’s the right one.
Paul: You know.
Connor: You’re full of crap you.
Paul: Is there someone you like?
Connor: Shut up! (pause) What if there is?
Paul: It’s non of my business…
Connor: You’re dead right there!
Paul: It’s just….
Connor: What?
Paul: Nothing.
Connor: No, go on… It’s just what?
Paul: What does she think about what you’re doing?
Connor: It’s got nothing to do with her.
Paul: It does if she likes you……….She likes you too, right?
Connor: Yeah, she does…I think…I don’t know….
Paul: Maybe you should find out. Talk to her.
Connor: Do you want some water?
Paul: Please. (Holds the bottle to Paul’s lips and takes the blindfold off) Thanks.
Pause
Connor: You got kids?
Paul: Two boys…Ben and Sam.
Connor: How old are they?
Paul: Two and Five.
Connor: These them? (Holds up a picture taken from Paul’s wallet)
Paul nods.
Connor: What’s it like to be a Dad?
Paul: It’s like nothing else! Like….
Connor: Are you a good Dad?
Paul: I like to think so….I try at least…they’re my life.
Connor: Do they know that?
Paul: I hope so. They’re a bit young yet but yes, I think they know.
Connor: D’you play football with them and stuff?
Paul: Well Ben’s a bit young yet but Sam and I have a go, yes.
Connor: Who do you love more?
Paul: It doesn’t work like that. I love them both. Sam was born three weeks early. He was so tiny. You wouldn’t think so to look at him now. Ben, he burst in with the healthiest pair of lungs I’d ever heard. He may only be two but he’s definitely the boss. Don’t know what I’d do without them…
The rest of the gang arrive back from their exploits.
Karl: What’s going on here then?
Connor: Nothing.
Andy: Don’t look like nothing to me, gay boy.
Connor: Shut up!
Andy: Looks like you and Pauline were getting right cosy.
Nick: Maybe we should go out and come back in again, heh?
Andy and Nick messing about, putting their arms round Connor and making gestures.
Connor: Just get off me will you?
Karl: Pack it in! You ok lad?
Connor: Yeh.
Karl: You sure?
Connor: Yeh… ‘cors.
Karl: Only you don’t look ok to me. Does he look ok to you lot?
Andy: Never has.
Nick: Bit nervous…
Andy: Shifty if you ask me.
Connor: I said I’m fine ok!
Karl: Watch your tone lad! I’m being nice here.
Connor: Sorry.
Karl: And being nice… I’d say you were very touchy all of a sudden.
Connor: Don’t know what you mean.
Nick: Looks like we really interrupted something before, hey?
Andy: He’s gone red … look at him. What have you two been up to.
Connor: Shut up will ya! Look, let’s just go eh? We‘ve got what we came for.
Andy: Maybe you did gay boy. Me, I’m having a drink first. (Gets himself one)
Karl: Don’t just stand there lad. Put the kettle on.
Connor: (Nervous…This development is not usual) Ok…. (goes towards the kitchen area then stops) Look, just let him go, hey?
Nick: Are you mad?
Connor: He won’t say anything. He’s not stupid, are you? (Paul speechless)
Andy: You want us to let your little friend go?
Connor: What is your problem?!
Karl. Easy lads.
Connor: What can he do, hey? Nothing! We’ve got his money … We know where his family lives. He can’t prove a thing about any of us…He has too much to lose and he knows it. He…
Karl: So what’s stopping him?
Connor: Wha..?
Karl: Like I said…He can go anytime he wants so what’s stopping him? That? (Meaning the gaffer tape….Karl cuts Paul free) There. Well…go on then… off you go.
Andy, Nick and Connor confused as this new development evolves, reacts in character. A terrified Paul rubs his wrists.
Paul: What are you going to do?
Karl: Well that’s gratitude for you.
Paul: You let me go? Then what? I get up and you shoot me in the back?
Nick; Woa, we don’t do none of that shit man. Guns are well nasty.
Andy: You could get hurt.
Karl: You’re really starting to piss me off now. Are you going or what?
Paul: What’s the catch?
Karl: No catch. Young lad here thinks we should let you go…Give you a chance…I agree. Well…go on….Go on!
A terrified Paul rises as the others step back. Paul steps forward just as Karl smashes his glass on the floor in front of him. Andy and Nick ‘get it’ and do the same with great joy, leaving a broken trail of glass to the door. Connor is frozen. Knowing this is a ‘no win’ situation, Paul still has to take that chance and tiptoes through the broken glass in his bare feet to the door he knows will be locked when he gets there. He tries the door, it opens! He runs to the front door, frantically trying to open the locked door as Karl, Nick and Andy slowly walk up behind him. Karl hits Paul with a kosh.
The gang sit in silence, watching Paul back in his chair as he comes to.
Karl: Thought I told you to put the kettle lad.
Connor: Wha…?
Andy: You deaf? Kettle! Oh and er…a couple of rounds of toast.
Connor: But…
Karl: Of course ‘buttered’…That is what you meant isn’t it lad?
Connor puts the kettle on. The group gets comfortable, almost ignoring a terrified Paul.
Nick: So, what you doing this weekend?
Andy: What’s it to you scumbag?
Nick: Nothing…only Mike was asking after you.
Andy: Yeah? And?
Nick: Don’t know… something about you and his sister.
Andy: Shelley?
Nick: Yeah…. She’s well fit.
Andy: She’s alright if you like skinny birds… Me, I like something I can get hold of and your big girls are dead grateful, if you know what I mean. You should try them when your balls drop!
All laugh at Nick
Nick: (annoyed, he shouts to Connor) In’t it Shelley you like?
Connor: No!
Andy: No’s right! He doesn’t like girls… likes boys don’t you sunshine?
Nick: Don’t worry, she’ll wait for you.
Andy: What’s this? You trying to go straight, mate?
Nick: He’s meeting up with her after.
Connor: No I’m not.
Andy: ‘No’ you’re not meeting up or ‘no’ you’re not straight?
Connor: Just leave it will you?
Andy: Word is she’s gagging for it so she’ll not be fussy…be ok for you that.
Connor angry, attempts to punch Andy, who laughing, grabs hold of his arm and twists it behind his back.
Andy: Or maybe she needs a real man hey? I’ll warm her up for you if you like.
An angry Connor bursts free and goes for Andy who laughing, allows Connor a bit of power before he retaliates big style.
Karl: That’s enough! Now where’s that brew? (Connor storms off) I don’t know… boys and girls playing together, boys playing with boys, girls with girls. S’ all good fun! But what about when the fun stops, hey?
Nick: What do you mean?
Karl: I mean…well, you know what I mean, don’t you Paul?
Paul: (terrified and in pain with his feet) W..What?
Karl: Course you do, Paul… Think about it.
Paul: I don’t know wha….
Karl: But first, we’d like to thank you for handing over all your money and stuff… Thank the man, lads.
General consensus of thanks.
Karl: It was good of you that and I want you to remember how grateful we all were and how nice we all thanked you, right?
Paul: Y..y…yes.
Karl: Can’t hear you Paul.
Andy: He can’t hear you Paul.
Paul: Y.Yes!
Karl: That’s better. You see it’s important to us….me especially, that you remember how nice we were.
Paul: I..I..do, I w..will.
Karl: Good…That’s good Paul. Now, think back to what we were talking about.
Paul: I don’t understa…
Connor brings in a tray of tea.
Andy: Where’s the toast? You can’t have a brew without toast, you dick. (Connor about to answer back when…)
Karl: Paul’ll have a brew won’t you Paul? Over here lad. (Connor brings a mug over to Paul. Andy puts his mug down)
Andy: Can’t drink that now. (Pours himself a whisky instead)
Karl: I’m sorry, forgot… You can’t hold the cup…your hands and all that, can you? It’s amazing what you can’t do if bits of you can’t ….or don’t work anymore. You drink it lad.
Connor: I don’t want it.
Karl: I said, drink it lad! (Connor takes a sip) That’s better. Promised his Mother I wouldn’t let him touch the booze. So, have you had a think?
Paul: I don’t know wh…
Karl: I mean…girls and boys playing together… fine, It’s natural isn’t it? Boys and boys, girls and girls…well, I say, what ever floats your boat mate just as long as every one knows what’s going on and no one gets hurt, yeh?
Paul: O...Of course, yes.
Karl: Of course yes. So tell me, what do you think about big boys playing with little boys?
Paul: What? I…It’s wrong of course.
Karl: Dead right it’s wrong! Grown men messing with young lads… kids! Disgusting isn’t it?
Paul: Y...yes, yes, It’s terrible.
Andy: Terrible? It’s fucking sick, man! What’s wrong with you? They want their balls cutting off.
Nick: You a kiddy fiddler?
Paul: No! No…of course not!
Andy: Paedo! (grabs the back of his neck)
Paul: I’m not a…
Nick: Not a what? Go on….say it
Andy: Guilty conscience that, when you can’t say it.
Paul: I’m not one of them!
Andy: You sure? Word is, they’ve got one moved in round here.
Nick: And it must be true coz it’s the law now innit?
Andy: That’s right. They got to tell you, haven’t they, if they move any of you sick bastards near any of us what has kids.
Paul: Please….I’ve got kids of my own for God’s sake…I’d never…
Andy: Never say never!
Nick: You got kids?
Connor: He’s got two…
Andy: How do you know?
Connor: He told me... before …Two boys (eye contact between Paul and Connor)
Andy: Boys, hey?
Paul: What’s that supposed to mean?
Andy: Shut the fuck up (thumps him)
Karl: Quite a chat you must have had there… just the two of you… What else you talk about?
Connor: Nothing.
Karl: Oh, I don’t think so some how… (to the others) do you? You got proper friendly with him didn’t you?
Connor: No.
Karl: (to Paul) Tell him some hard luck story, did you?
Connor: He never…
Karl: How it’d been done to you…
Paul: No!
Karl: How you couldn’t help it…How you hated yourself for doing it…
Connor: Stop it! You’re wrong!
Karl: Am I? Might like to know what we found out when checking his files.
Connor: I don’t want to know.
Andy: Course you do.
Nick: He’s got some flash gear man.
Andy: Yeh… And a criminal record.
Paul: No!
Nick: We know different though don’t we?..We’ve seen.
Andy: You lyin to us, Pauline?
Paul: No
Andy: Only if you are…
Paul: I’m not! I swear…Ok, I may have seen a bit of trouble but…
Andy: What kind of trouble is that then?
Paul: Nothing really, bit of shoplifting…I mean we all do it don’t we…?
Nick: You saying we shoplift?
Andy: You saying you’re one of us?
Paul: Well…
Andy: I’m nothing like you, you fucking paedo ( goes to punch him, Karl grabs his arm)
Karl: Shoplifting hey?
Paul: Bits and bobs…. That’s all…
Karl: But that’s not all though is it? Been in court a lot haven’t you? Either you like it there or you’ve been a very naughty boy.
Paul: It was a misunderstanding…
Karl: You’ve had some fucking big misunderstandings, you. Like the good things in life don’t you? Hey (To Connor) Listen and learn. Didn’t know there was that much money in IT?
Paul: Ok so I buy knock off…You try selling legit…It’s kill or be killed in busi….
Karl: You saying you killed someone then?
Paul: Course not…I mean…
Karl: You sure?
Paul: Course I’m sure. I’m not like…
Karl: Me?
Paul: I didn’t mean that.
Karl: So what did you mean?
Paul: I d…
Karl: Go on. Only there’re a lot of ways to kill someone…without actually doing it yourself…Know what I mean?.
Paul: I…I..
Karl: Oh come on Pauline. You don’t get where you are selling dodgy knock off. You telling me the odd bag of white powder never came your way? Bet you didn’t think twice about the poor bastards you fucked up.
Paul: I don’t deal drugs.
Karl: I’m not saying you do…but you know someone who does, heh?
Paul: I don’t…I wouldn’t…You can’t prove anything….
Karl: Woah! So that’s how it is, is it? You have been a bad lad, haven’t you? See, my money was on the insurance scam. How wrong can you be?
Paul: I haven’t done anything.
Karl: Like I said…You enjoy the good things in life. Nice house, flash cars…and you not being able to drive?…Don’t think so somehow....Swanky restaurants, foreign holidays, properties abroad… They don’t come cheap though, do they Pauline?
Paul: I’m good at my job…
Karl: Nobodys that fucking good. So what d’you do hey? Business going down the pan was it? … Leave the lecky fire on one night and boom! Nice little payout…..
Paul: I don’t know where you’re getting all this from but…..
Karl: It’s amazing what you can find out on the ol’ ‘tinternet’ when you know the right buttons to press. Didn’t go to plan though did it?
Paul: Sorry but I don’t know what you’re talking about.
Karl: Oh come on. I gave you more credit than that. You’re making me do all the work.
Paul: I don’t know what you want me to say?
Karl: There was someone still in there wasn’t there? (Paul very uncomfortable) Go on, you can tell us. Oh dear….One of your employees was it? Doing a spot of overtime? A jealous husband maybe… hiding, trying to catch you with your pants down.
Connor: He’s married!
Karl: So?
Connor: He wouldn’t…
Karl: What? Fuck his best mates wife? Did he see you together? Well, did he?
Paul: He wasn’t there! He went home. I thought he’d gone home. He said he was going to g…
Karl: Jesus Paul! You have been a bad lad.
Paul: You‘ve got nothing on me. If you did, you’d have done something about it by now.
Karl: Is that right?
Paul: I’ve got nothing to say.
Karl: Maybe we should be having a little chat with the lovely Louise then…
Paul: You leave her out of this…or so help me...
Karl: Or what? Pity she couldn’t meet you here after all, hey? In this cosy little love nest. Never mind, you can always give Selina a call. Seems like nothing can keep you apart from… how did she put it, ‘your horny little sex kitten’ now…Ooh…the things she wants to do to you ( All laugh except Connor) Wonder what Kate would make of it all if she knew, poor cow.
Connor: Clare.
Karl: No, Kate!
Nick: Who the hells Clare?
Connor: His wife.
Karl: Hell of a chat the two of you must have had.
Connor: I thought she turned your life around. How can you do this to her?
Andy: Grow up you dickhead. Why do you think? (coarse gestures)
Connor: It was all lies….
Paul: No…
Connor: You’re supposed to be a family man!
Paul: I am!
Connor: A Dad! …
Paul: I know…I…
Connor: You’ve got kids!
Andy: What planet are you on, gay boy?!
Connor: Dad’s are supposed to look after their kids...love them...
Paul: And I do.
Andy: Bet you do you sick c…
Connor: It was all lies... To get round me, was it?
Paul: No, of course not. I…
Connor: So have you got a record like they say or what?
Paul: It’s not that simple.
Connor ‘Cors it is. Yes or No? Which is it?
Paul: Ok ok! Yes, I’ve got a criminal record…But it’s not what you think.
Karl: Depends on what we’re thinking, doesn’t it?
Andy: I’m thinking I want to rip your fucking head off, you paedo…
Karl: Steady…
Paul: It’s for something else….not that!
Nick: What then? What d’ya do?
Paul hesitates…doesn’t want to go there.
Andy: He asked you a question paedo…
Paul: It was a few years back….My girlfriend was pregnant.
Connor: That’s not an offence.
Nick: Have to do better than that, big man.
Andy: Cheating on you was she? D’you beat her up or something?
Paul: No! She was under age…
Andy: You dirty bastard…
Paul: We loved each other…We wanted to get married after her birthday but her parents wouldn’t have it and filed charges.
Connor: What happened to the baby?
Paul: He’s five now….Sam.
Connor: And the girl?
Paul: My wife. We got married as soon as we could… moved away…made a fresh start…had another boy…
Connor: Ben.
Paul: That’s right…
Connor: I don’t believe you.
Paul: It’s true, I swear. Ok, I messed up but I’m a good Dad…I…
Andy: You mean that’s it?
Paul: I swear…..
Andy: You’re full of shit you!
Nick: ‘We loved each other’
Karl: (slow hand clap) You’re good, I’ll give you that… very good. (To Connor) Both of you.
Connor: What?
Karl: The double act. Nice one. What else you tell him?
Connor: Nothing!
Karl: Don’t ‘nothing’ me you little prick. What d’you tell him?
Connor: Nothing…I swear.
Karl: So why don’t I believe a single fucking word! Get over here! (Connor goes/ is pushed towards Karl) Now, you may be able to pull the bleeding heart with him, you fuckin perv… you and me… we know better hey? We.re going now but before we do … (gang close in on Paul) whether you’ve done bad shit or not….there’s something you should know… I hate paedophiles! (Strikes him viciously across the face…To Connor) He hates them too don’t you lad? I’m sorry, we can’t hear you.
Connor: Yes.
Karl: Yes what?
Connor: I hate them too.
Karl: How much do you hate them lad, hey? Show us how much you hate them. Go on…Go on! What’s the matter with you? Go on!
Connor: But he’s not a p…
Nick: Mate!
Karl: Word is there’s one moved in round here. I say it’s him. So go on!
Connor: I can’t.
Karl: You’re really pissing me off now, do you know that? Seems to me, you’ve forgotten where your loyalties lie.
Nick: Just hit him, man.
Andy: What’s the matter gay boy? Go on, go on!
Connor stands his ground.
Karl: You’re either with me or against me…which is it?
Connor: I’m with you.
Karl: Prove it.
Connor: Anything.
Karl gives Connor a knife
Connor: No way.
Karl: ‘Anything’ you said.
Connor: Yeah but………….. I promised our Liam.
Karl: What, kid? What d’you promise him?
Connor: That, I’d be a man, that I wouldn’t do anything like he did.
Karl: Liam’s gone.
Connor: He’s not!
Karl: Fifteen years… He’s gone.
Connor: You told him th…
Karl: That I’d look after you, and I am. He’s not around any more kid, so you need to start acting like a fucking grown up….. Kill him!
Initial shock followed by various reactions in tune with each character... Connor terrified.
Connor: You can’t mean it, Ah come on…I’ll do anything else but not this… it’s crazy.
Karl: You calling me crazy?
Connor: No, it’s just…
Karl: Only if you are …and you’re right and I am crazy….just think what else I could do if you keep pissing me off. (To Paul) Guess what?! This lot hate Paedos even more than I do! (Steps back to let Andy and Nick loose on Paul. Then turns to Connor) Stab him up!
Connor: (knife in hand, watches Paul getting beaten) Leave him alone.
Andy: You what?
Connor: You heard. Leave him alone.
Karl: I said ‘Stab him up’! (Karl tries to force Connor’s hand to the jeers and cheers of Nick and Andy. There is a scuffle where it looks as though Paul has been stabbed but it is Karl who falls to the floor, bleeding, laughing at Connor as he dies. Frozen silence, then panic in the ranks)
Nick: Is he dead? He’s dead isn’t he?
Andy: Shit man, you killed him!
Nick: I’m out of here.
Connor: Stay where you are.
Nick: Mate, come on…
Connor: I’m not your mate…mate!
Nick: (looking at Connor’s knife, scared) What are you going to do?
Andy: You’ve killed him… You stupid bastard, you’ve killed him!
Connor: And you don’t talk to me like that ever again, d’you hear?
Andy: Hey?
Connor: Always riding me, having a dig, trying to make me feel bad.
Andy: Ah come on mate, it was only a laugh.
Connor: D’you see me laughing ….mate?
Andy: So what you saying? You the big man now, are you? What you going to do hey? Kill us too?
Nick: Shut up will you?
Andy: He don’t scare me. That was just a fluke. You haven’t got the balls to do it again…face to face. Well have you, hey…gay boy?
Connor erupts, pent up anger released and scared he jumps at Andy, they fight and Connor holds a knife at his throat…
Andy: I dare you…
Paul: Don’t do it, for God’s sake lad, he’s not worth it.
Connor: (To Paul) Shut up you!
Andy: Go on…
Paul: You’re better than this lad. Let the authorities deal with him! Look we could even say he (Karl) killed him…
Andy: You Faggot……. Go on…
Paul: Don’t do it lad...
Andy: Go on you fucking faggot… (Connor stabs Andy)
Paul: NO!
Blackout
Flashing police lights shine through the window. Ambulance personnel / First aid officer attending to Paul’s injuries.
Officer: And that’s when you heard Mr Latimer calling for help.
Nick: Yeah. (Eye contact with Paul)
Paul: I don’t know how long I would have been left here if he hadn’t come. Those boys, they were just wild, arguing about who took what. They just went for each other. It was… it was savage.
Officer: Sounds about right, I know these two. And neither of you saw anyone else? It was just the two of them.
Paul: That’s right, unless you saw anybody else?
Lights fade down leaving just Conner in a spotlight.

SCENE FIVE – PRISON
Liam is sat alone anxious Maggie enters.
Liam: Mum.
Maggie: Liam. (Liam tries to help her sit down) You’re alright, I can manage.
Both sit in silence for a few moments, then both speak at the same time.
Liam: I didn’t think you’d come…
Maggie: I’d have come a lot sooner if…
Liam: Sorry.
Maggie: No, I’m sorry.
Liam: You’ve nothing to be sorry for, Mum. Nothing.
Maggie: Yeah well, who’s to say hey?
Pause
Liam: It’s good to see you, Mum
Maggie: You too son.
Liam: You’re looking well.
Maggie: Liar!
Liam: Straight up.
Maggie: More than I can say for you. They not feeding you in here?
Liam: I’m fine Mum, honest.
Maggie: ‘Corse you are.
Liam: And Connor?
Maggie: He’s doing ok. Didn’t want to see anyone at first … Kept himself to himself. It was like losing you all over again.
Liam: Sometimes it’s better that way.
Maggie: Better for who? We’re a family. (Silence)
Liam: I’m sorry Mum. I’m so sorry. I…
Maggie: I know. (Maggie puts her hand on top of Liam’s cupped hands - Pause) Anyway, he’s home with me now…
Connor enters with Shelley. They walk towards Maggie and Liam.
Maggie: They both are. Don’t know what went on that night, he won’t talk about it…maybe one day….Still, don’t know what I’d do without them. She’s a lovely girl is Shelley. Persuaded Connor to come home by all accounts…Whatever it was, seems running away wasn’t all it’s cracked up to be, after all. Of course, it’s early days yet but I think this is going to be the making of him. He’s even talking about going back to college, thank God…
Liam: Y’alright kid?
Conner: Yeah, you?
Liam: Come ere.
There is a moving visual moment between the family… an awkward yet heartfelt embrace between Liam and Connor.
LIGHTS DOWN TO BLACKOUT.

 

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