By Tirzah Greene
ACT I
Scene 1
The New Neighbor
Characters:
Connie Housewife, detail-oriented, takes care of the family
Paul Businessman, consumed with work, avoidant of family life
Emmaline 8-year-old daughter of Paul and Connie
CONNIE
(Connie peering through the curtain of the kitchen window) Paul? Do you see this?
PAUL
(Intently reading a newspaper) I see a newspaper … if that’s what you mean?
CONNIE
Paul, be serious, this is important! For heaven’s sake, LOOK!! (sigh) There’s … a man next door.
PAUL
(Stops reading his newspaper and looks up with Connie behind him in the kitchen) There are a lot of men in this world. (goes back to reading) You’re bound to come across one sooner or later.
CONNIE
Paul! Will you stop reading that blasted newspaper and look! See for yourself… look… there’s a skinny man hunched over suitcases. (turns to look at Paul) COME HERE PLEASE!
PAUL
(places down the newspaper on the table and walks into the kitchen and stands next to Connie and looks out the window) (long pause) Oh, we have a new neighbor.
CONNIE
Neighbor? What happened to the old neighbors? Where did they go?
PAUL
Connie, they moved out six months ago. Don’t you remember? The old couple … moved to be closer to their family.(stares at her with a serious look) You do remember, right?
CONNIE
Oh, yes. (pause) I recall now that you say that. (confused look) Why does he have so many suitcases, Paul? (Pause)This isn’t good, Paul. I can tell already, this isn’t good.
PAUL
Connie, look at me, okay? (grabs her by the shoulders) Look at me. (pause) He’s simply moving into his new house. It’s all right. Okay? Everything will be fine. He’s simply a new neighbor.
CONNIE
(points out the window) Look! … now he’s carrying oversized suitcases … there are so many of them. (worried look on her face she looks at Paul) Why, Paul? Why so many?
PAUL
Perhaps it was easier to use suitcases instead of packing boxes. (shrugs) Connie, it’s fine. He’s moving in that’s all. Nothing more nothing less. (pause) I’ll introduce myself tomorrow and get to know the new neighbors. Okay? Perhaps, he’s married and has a wife? That would be nice, right? Someone to gossip about me with? Right? That would be good. (pause) Okay, don’t worry Connie. It’s all fine. Okay?
CONNIE
(staring out the window intently) (long pause) I fear it’s that time again, Paul.
Paul walks back to the dining room table sits down and starts to read the newspaper.
PAUL
(looking up from his paper) (Pause) For?
(Dropping the curtain Connie turns around to face her husband through the kitchen doorway.)
CONNIE
To move. (pause) What else?
PAUL
(sighing loudly) Oh, not again, Connie we’ve only been here for three years. (pause) We can't keep moving around like vagabonds. (folds the paper and places it on the table)
CONNIE
(turns back to look out the kitchen window) That man is no good. I can just tell by how he walks. He can't even carry a suitcase the proper way. Paul, there’s no telling what’s in that suitcase. You never know what is going on behind closed doors.
PAUL
Let's discuss this later. Okay? (looking at his watch)
CONNIE
… or behind the skull. Paul, you never know what others are thinking. (pause) There’s nothing to discuss as far as I'm concerned, Paul. I simply (turning to face Paul) don't feel safe here anymore.
PAUL
The same ol' story. Connie, it’s fine. We are safe here. (pause) We can't keep moving and you know it. Not everyone is dangerous. (walks to the hallway table and picks up his briefcase turns back to look at Connie). We'll talk later. Okay? I need to go to work.
CONNIE
Of course. (turns away from the window and begins to clear away Paul’s dishes)
(Paul stares in her direction shakes his head before finally turning and walking silently out the door.)
CONNIE
(hears the car start and drive away) He desperately needs to do something about that car. It sounds awful. He’s so lazy… I have to do everything around here. (looks at her watch, realizes she is off schedule) (yelling) Emmaline! Where are you?
EMMALINE
(softly) Right here, Mamma. (stands in the far corner of the room)
CONNIE
Oh, heaven's dearie me, have you been there the whole time, listening?
EMMALINE
No, I came when I heard you calling. Don't I look pretty, Mamma? (spins in a circle showing off a billowy white dress with small daisies imprinted). I picked this dress out myself. Do you like it?
CONNIE
Why, yes! I love it! You look beautiful and you are all dressed too. Ready for school, like a big girl. I'm amazed at how grown-up you are becoming.
EMMALINE
Thank you, Mamma. (smiling) I'll get my backpack and wait for the school bus. (looking toward the door) It should come soon.
CONNIE
(with a stern look on her face) Oh, Uhm… No, you can't! Not today... or maybe no … more (pause) days.
EMMALINE
But Mamma, I want to go to school. I’m working on a project with one of my friends. Today, she was going to bring in feathers to school and I’m bringing glitter for our art project.
CONNIE
I’m sorry but not today, Emmaline. You were sick last night with a fever with a terrible fever. You can’t go to school, today.
EMMALINE
I was hot. I didn’t need all of those stupid blankets on me. I’m not sick. (pause) Mamma, I'm the top reader in my class! I have to go.
CONNIE
Not today, Dear. You are ill. I can’t in all good faith, send you to school when I know you are ill. It’s not fair to everyone else who is healthy. Do you want to get everyone sick with your germs? (pause) Well, do you?
EMMALINE
I have so many friends… I miss them. My teacher is nice, Mamma. (under her breath) Don’t keep me here, please.
CONNIE
No, we'll find you another class to go to. Okay (pause) in another town.
EMMALINE
(teary-eyed) Not again. Mamma! (pause) I don't want to go. I like my friends here. (hugs her mother, pleading) Have I done something wrong? Why do we have to move? I don’t … want to. I like it here Mamma.
CONNIE
We won't worry about this right now. Okay? (turning toward the kitchen) Oh, I know. Let's make some cookies.
EMMALINE
Mamma, I want to go to school and see my teacher and my friends. (pause) Mamma, I can’t keep …
CONNIE
What? Emmaline? You can’t keep … what?
EMMALINE
Mamma, I have to go to school. (pause) I can’t keep missing days, Mamma.
CONNIE
(taking a deep breath and closing her eyes) No, honey (pause) you are sick today. Who said you miss too much school anyway? I’m your mother. I know what is best for you and this family. I know you are too sick to go to school today. All right?
Emmaline glares at her mother with a distressed glance as she walks over to the couch in the living room. She sits down quietly, moping, and shifts her stare to the floor.
EMMALINE
(under her breath) Mrs. Jackson … says so. (looks at her mother) Mamma, I need to go to school every day.
CONNIE
Mrs. Jackson? Okay. I’ll have a little chat with her. You can guarantee it. Who else is saying you need to go to school every day? Hmmm? Who? I’ll discuss it with everyone who tells you this. It clearly says in the school policy, you cannot return to school after having a fever. (pause) Emmaline, who? Tell me, now.
EMMALINE
(tears flowing down her face) No one, Mamma. (pause) I’ll stay home with you, Mamma. I’ll stay home.
CONNIE
Now, that’s my pretty girl. I’m so proud of you. (strokes her daughter’s hair) I didn’t want to call anyone anyway. You stay home with me and be a good girl. Okay, Emmaline?
EMMALINE
(looks down at the floor) Okay, Mamma. (sigh) I’ll be a good girl for you.
CONNIE
That’s, Mamma’s little girl. Good thinking, Emmaline. Good thinking. I’m proud of you for making the right decision. (changing topic) Now let's find a recipe for some delicious cookies. (stern voice, looks Emmaline in the eyes) That's the end of this conversation, Okay? Emmaline? Now ... now, don't you worry, we'll find you a new class. One that's safe. Okay?
EMMALINE
(mumbling under her breath) My class is safe.
CONNIE
Emmaline, enough! (smiling, changes topic) Come on, let's go make some yummy cookies.
EMMALINE
(Reluctantly) Okay, Mamma. (pause) I like Chocolate Chip.
Connie standing next to the kitchen door, looms, with hands-on her hips.
CONNIE
Oh no! I don’t have any chocolate chips. Well, that’s okay. We’ll make my favorite cookies, peanut butter.
EMMALINE
(walks past her mother and steps into the kitchen) Yes, Mamma.
CONNIE
That's my big girl. (following Emmaline into the kitchen) Now tell me, what color house do you want? Tell your Mamma all about it.
By Tirzah Greene
THE HOUSE ON THE HILL
ACT I
Scene 2
An Afternoon Drive
Characters:
Connie prim proper, always right, stay at home housewife
Paul Easy going, aloof, businessman
Lucille Eager, polite, real estate agent
Connie and Paul are driving to go to a new house viewing.
CONNIE
(Glancing over toward Paul who is driving and lost in thought)
It is for the best, Paul.
(Pause)
Paul, did you hear me?
PAUL
(Snapping back into the present moment as he hears his wife)
Yes (pause) uhh (pause) what was your question?
CONNIE
(loud sigh) I said (pause, sharp tone) this is really for the best (pause) for our OWN safety (shaking her head, pause) for heaven's sake.
PAUL
(glancing at her then rolling his eyes and turning his gaze to watch the road)
You said that when we moved the last time.
CONNIE
I know (pause) but we must think of Emmaline. (turning to look out her window)
PAUL
(sighing) Yes. (sharply) You also said that last time we moved. (softer tone) I'm tired of moving.
CONNIE
(sharp, know-it-all tone) Paul (pause) and each time I say this (staring directly at Paul) it is imperatively true. (pause) You must trust me.
PAUL
(ignoring his wife's comments)
Here is the house.
(while parking the car in the empty driveway)
Wow, it's big (slight pause) on a huge hill. (sarcastic) That will be fun in winter.
CONNIE
(staring at the house in awe)
(excitedly) It's gorgeous! (turns her head quickly in Paul's direction) When can we move in?
PAUL
Let's look at it first, Okay? Look, the real estate agent is here already.
A short, stocky woman wearing high heels came out of the side door to greet the couple.
LUCILLE
(Smiling and walking toward Paul with her hand extended.)
Good Morning. (shaking Paul's hand) My name is Lucille. (smiling as she turned toward Connie) Lucy for short.
PAUL
(shaking the woman's hand) Good Morning. Thank you for meeting with us on such short notice. (pause) I'm Paul and this is my wife, Connie.
CONNIE
How do you do? (while shaking Lucy's hand) When can we move in?
LUCILLE
(Huge Grin) Oh as soon as you can, my dear (pause) as soon as you can.
PAUL
(coughing) We would like to look at it first. (glaring at Connie) Can we?
LUCILLE
Of course! Follow me.
(They all walked up the path and through the side door together)
This is the kitchen area set up with all updated appliances and a lovely view of the town through the Bay window in the breakfast alcove.
CONNIE
(looking out the Bay Window)
What can you tell me about the town?
LUCILLE
Oh, it is a lovely quiet community. (looking toward Paul) You would have everything you could need here, a grocery store, bakery, butcher's shop just down there. (pointing out of the window)
CONNIE
(interrupting, quickly turning her head toward Lucille)
What about crime?
LUCILLE
Oh no (pause) now this town is very safe (pause) the population is approximately 300 people. It's not a huge problem.
CONNIE
(sharply) How do you know?
PAUL
Connie! This looks like a nice small town (sigh) just like the one we currently live in 30 miles away from here. (smiling, glaring at Connie)
LUCILLE
(confused look)
If you don't mind my asking (pause) Are you relocating due to new employment?
PAUL
(sarcastic) No, we move just for the fun of it and with this house (pause) I would get the luxury of commuting further than from where I live now.
CONNIE
(Embarrassed)
Paul (pause) I'm certain Lucy doesn't want to hear your troubles. (loud sigh, turning toward Lucille) How many rooms are there?
LUCILLE
(excited) Well, that is what remains to be seen! Let's wander around check out this beautiful four-bedroom home. (pause) Please feel free to ask any questions you may have about the house at any time during the tour.
CONNIE
(walking to the other side of the room)
Wonderful.
LUCILLE
(following Connie and Paul in the big spacious house)
(bumping into Paul in the living room) Lots of possibilities here, don't you think?
PAUL
(with a distant, glazed look) Every house has lots of possibilities, it just depends upon what you are planning to do in the house.
CONNIE
(Walking into the living room, excited) Oh, Paul! this house is perfect!
PAUL
(shrugging his shoulders) Somehow, I got the feeling you would think that my dear.
CONNIE
Lucy, we'll take it!
LUCILLE
(smiling) Sounds wonderful! I just knew you would love it!
PAUL
Hold the phone! (grabbing his wife's arm silently implying to keep her mouth quiet) Connie, we need to discuss this further. (turning toward Lucille) Lucy, this is a beautiful house and with all the big decisions in life, my wife and I need to discuss this further amongst ourselves. If you don't mind, we will contact you if we have any questions or would like to pursue the purchase.
LUCILLE
(sighing, disappointed, polite smile) That is usually the best way to decide.
CONNIE
(Sharply under her breath) Is it?
turns to walk out the same door they entered the house
PAUL
(shaking Lucille's hand) Lucy (embarrassed) Thank you for your time. (pause) We'll be in contact. (shaking her hand again, walks out the same door after Connie)
LUCILLE
(yelling out after them) Please call with any questions. (waving) You have my number!
The couple gets into their car and Paul drives toward their home in silence.
CONNIE
(Long awkward silence) You must think of Emmaline.
PAUL
Oh, here we go! (stares forward not looking at his wife)
CONNIE
(sharp demanding stern tone) How dare you diminish our poor baby's health and well-being. Do you remember all of the publicity after her accident? (pause) Don't you? We must, as a family, be safe from dangerous people. I must insist upon this Paul. I absolutely must insist. Do you hear me?
PAUL
Yes.
CONNIE
I'm sorry sir that you are inconvenienced about moving to another town to keep our family safe.
PAUL
(in a soft tone) I just had hoped (pause, whispering, not finishing his thought)
CONNIE
(Quickly retorting) Hoped for what?
PAUL
(quietly) I had just hoped we had already found our forever home. (pause) I'm tired of running.
CONNIE
Well, I can't give you a proper timeline as to when that will happen. However, I do think you are being selfish. The horror that the child went through. We owe it to her. We do, Paul. We owe our baby girl ... the world. (turning toward the window again)
PAUL
(quietly) Yes, dear.
CONNIE
That's the spirit, Paul. Your family must come first in your life. That is all that there is to it. Plain and simple.
PAUL
But at what cost? (pauses for a minute) I'll call Lucy, tomorrow.
CONNIE
Of course, you will, you always do the right thing for your precious family. Paul, never forget this.
PAUL
(staring forward)
You make it impossible to forget, my dear.
By Tirzah Greene
The House on the Hill
Scene 3 - Act I
Sweet Dreams
Emmaline
Connie
Paul
The scene is set in Emmaline's upstairs bedroom. Connie is helping her get ready for bed.
EMMALINE
(sitting on her bed, flipping through a storybook) I don't want to go to bed.
CONNIE
(standing by a dresser getting a nightgown for Emmaline) Honey, it is bedtime, you have been ill and you need your beauty rest.
EMMALINE
Tell me a story, Mamma. (pause) Please.
CONNIE
Oh, dear ... you are impossible this evening. Aren't you? (pause) All right but you must get your pajamas on and get into bed first. (handing her a nightgown) Emma, it's time for bed."
EMMALINE
Okay, Mamma. (Emmaline wriggled out of her clothes and put on her nightgown and runs over to her bed and eagerly jumps in)
CONNIE
(smiling) Wow, you are becoming so grown up. My precious baby girl. I think that is the fastest you have ever climbed into your bed.
EMMALINE
Mamma now tell me a story.
CONNIE
Good grief. What do I tell this beautiful little girl so she will fall asleep only having sweet dreams?
Emmaline looks at her mother eagerly waiting to hear a fun bedtime story.
I know! I can tell you about our new house.
Emma's expression changes to a look of sadness.
EMMALINE
Mamma, I don't want to move. I have all my friends here and my teacher too.
CONNIE
Yes, but the town is no longer safe for little girls like you.
EMMALINE
Why not?
CONNIE
Well, you see my dear, there are bad people in the world and I am afraid that we are surrounded by these bad people in this very same neighborhood.
EMMALINE
(wrinkled brow and questioning look) Bad people?
CONNIE
Yes, very bad people. They like to hurt little girls and probably old folks too like myself, which is why your daddy and I are moving you out of this terrible place.
EMMALINE
But I don't want to move, Mamma.
CONNIE
Honey, I'm afraid this is a decision for adults (pause) and adults alone. We make the best choices for little children such as yourself.
Emma pulls the blanket over her head and turns away from her mother.
Now, now, now ... no need for tears.
Emma continues to hide quietly under her blanket sobbing.
Honey, it's the best option for all of us. We already found a new home.
Emma immediately pulls the blanket off of her face with a look of anger at her mother.
EMMALINE
(softly) Mamma, my friends are here.
CONNIE
Honey, have your Mamma and Daddy steered you in the wrong direction so far?
EMMALINE
(sigh) No.
CONNIE
Well, trust that we have your best interest at heart, my dear. We love you more than life itself baby girl.
Emma sits on her bed with a cold look on her face, cries silently with tears running down her face.
EMMALINE
Okay, Mamma. I'll move ... but just one more time. Okay? ... I love my friends, Mamma.
CONNIE
(sigh) Baby girl. (places both hands on Emmaline's face) I promise this is the last time we move. I love you, my baby girl. (pause) I promise.
Emmaline hugs her mother.
EMMALINE
Mamma, tell me about our new house.
CONNIE
"Oh of course I will. Baby girl, of course, I will.
Emma snuggles into her bed, wraps herself with her blanket. Looks to her mother to tell her about the new journey that lies ahead.
My baby girl. Our new house is beautiful like you. It has a swimming pool, a playroom, and a beautiful bedroom for my ... baby girl.
EMMALINE
What color is the house, Mamma?
CONNIE
BLUE ... just like you had hoped for my precious.
EMMALINE
Blue? Really? Oh, Mamma. I did wish for a blue house.
CONNIE
Well, your daddy and I found one especially for you, because we love you so much.
EMMALINE
Thank you, Mamma. I love you and Daddy too.
CONNIE
As you should ... precious... as you should. (standing up) Now, you close your eyes and go to sleep."
EMMALINE
Okay, Mamma. I love you. I'm going to have sweet dreams just like you said.
CONNIE
As you should, my precious. Now close your eyes and fall to sleep, my precious baby girl.
EMMALINE
Good Night, Mamma.
CONNIE
Sweet dreams, Emma. Sweet dreams.
Connie covers Emma and slowly leaves the room as Emma falls to sleep. She goes downstairs and finds Paul sitting in the living room drinking a gin and tonic.
CONNIE
Wow, you must be stressed out. (staring at his face) How many have you had now?
PAUL
(slurred speech) I don't remember. I've got a lot on my mind, Connie. (he looks back in her eyes) Two or three, maybe? (shrugs)
CONNIE
Oh, and I do not? (pause) I'm stressed out more than anyone else in this household. Yet, I'm not wasting time by sitting around drinking myself to death.
PAUL
(slurred speech) I'm not wasting my time. You are in your world these days... and I'm in mine. (raises his glass) Cheers! (smiles)
CONNIE
You're drunk.
PAUL
(laughs, sarcastic tone) No more than you are my dear. (pause) Remember (pause, slurred speech) someone has to pay the bills.
CONNIE
Yes, that is your convenient answer. Isn't it? (sits down on a chair next to Paul) Did you call Lucy today?
PAUL
No, (pause takes a sip of his drink) I forgot.
CONNIE
(angry tone) Typical! You do not care one iota about our family, do you? (pause) Paul?
PAUL
Pours himself another drink, he turns and looks longingly at his wife for quite some time before replying.
I always have.
CONNIE
"Well, it does not feel like it, Paul.
PAUL
Why not? I pay the bills. I put food on the table. What more could you possibly want?
CONNIE
Safety, Paul. It's that simple. Safety for your own family. Something which seems to elude you with your constant drinking activities.
PAUL
It hasn't eluded me. I've been busy.
CONNIE
I know too busy to care, as always. Too busy drinking? Right, Paul?
Paul places his glass on the bar and stares at his wife with a bewildered look.
PAUL
Connie, don't say that. (pause) I've always cared. You must know this to be true.
CONNIE
Paul, with how you have been acting about securing your family's safety. I do NOT believe you do care. Plain and simple.
PAUL
You always know what I am thinking, don't you, Connie?
CONNIE
Of course, I do. Never doubt that, Paul.
Paul picks up his glass and turns his back to his wife. Paul pours himself another drink.
PAUL
You'll be the death of me sooner or later. (pause, quiet tone) I swear.
CONNIE
No, Paul. I will be the redemption of this family as I am the only one who can remain sober enough to think about anyone other than them self. (sharp tone) Right, my love?
PAUL
Only you would know, Connie. You are always correct, my dear. (sigh) I'm always in the wrong and I thank you for pointing this out day by day. (turns around facing Connie, sarcastic tone) Thank you, my dear. Thank you as always.
CONNIE
You are most welcome, Paul. I would suggest calling Lucy tomorrow. (pause) Right, Paul?
PAUL
As always, my dear. Now go on to bed as I have some work to do. Okay, baby?
CONNIE
Somehow, I don't believe you ... but I shall leave your presence as you are making me sick.
PAUL
Thank you, my love.
CONNIE
Sweet dreams, Paul. (pauses and turns toward Paul) Good night, my lost love. (Connie exits)
Paul pours another gin and tonic. He stares at the two glasses on the bar. He quickly drinks both drinks within a few sips.
PAUL
Good night.
By Tirzah Greene
The House on the Hill
Scene 4 â€" Act 1
The Longest Day
PAUL
CONNIE
EMMALINE
MOVING MAN
The scene is set in an Empty house with packing boxes around. Paul is on the first level ready to leave the house.
PAUL
(Yells up the staircase) Connie, I'm leaving! (pulls his suitcase toward the door) Connie!
CONNIE
(Connie walks down the staircase) Do you have to go? I need you to help move boxes. I don't trust the movers. You know this.
PAUL
I'm sorry but I have a business trip that I must be a part of. (sighs) I can't cancel.
CONNIE
For a whole week? Paul (pause) This is the longest you have ever been away.
PAUL
I know. (long pause, looks at Connie) It can't be helped. (picks up his briefcase) I have to go. I ... uh... hope things go well for the move. Connie, the movers will do all of the work. (sigh) So, don't worry, okay?
Connie stands silent, stares at Paul.
PAUL
Well ... I have to go. I'll see you next week in our new house. (Paul turns and walks out the front door, he turns back, waves) Bye! See you next week!
Connie watches from the doorway as he places his suitcase in the trunk and drives off.
CONNIE
(waving slowly, whispers to herself) Goodbye. (She turns around quickly and yells) Emma! Where are you?
EMMALINE
(Steps out into the hallway) I'm right here Mamma.
CONNIE
Oh, my heaven's child! You must stop sneaking up on me.
EMMALINE
Sorry, Mamma.
CONNIE
It's all right, darling. (pause) Now quick! We must get ready for the packers to come and move our furniture to the new house. (sigh, worried tone) Isn't that exciting?
EMMALINE
(shrugs her shoulders) I guess so, Mamma.
CONNIE
Emma, go pack your overnight bag. They'll be here soon. Okay?
EMMALINE
Okay, Mamma (turns toward the stairs) Mamma? I will find friends at the new house, right?
CONNIE
Of course, you will. This will be the best move, yet. Remember that as you pack.
Emma smiles half-heartedly and dashes up the stairs to her room. Connie looks down at the floor, paces, and thinks about all the tasks that needed to be completed to have a smooth transition to the new house. She walks to the kitchen and pours herself some coffee.
The day has just started. Oh, I have to get moving but first I'll have some coffee. (Connie sits at the kitchen table with her cup) Emma is getting so big. She'll find friends, I'm certain of it. Not like last time. And Paul, he'll get used to the drive. I'm certain of that as well. This will be a good move for us. It's simply time to move. That's all...
The doorbell rings loudly, snaps her out of her trance.
They are here, early. (walks toward the door) I guess better than late. (She answers the door)
MOVING MAN
(a burly man dressed in overalls stands at the door, looks at a clipboard) Ah.... Ms. Stewart?
CONNIE
Yes.
MOVING MAN
We are here to pack you up and move you to your new home. (waves to the men in the truck to come forward) My name is Jack. I'm in charge of today's packing.
CONNIE
Yes, just in time too. (opens the screen door)
MOVING MAN (JACK)
Glad we can help, ma'am.
Connie steps out of the way of the men. The workmen instantly scatter about the house, each looking around at specific rooms simultaneously.
MOVING MAN (JACK)
I assigned my guys to work in particular areas. We get the work done faster this way.
CONNIE
(perplexed look) Okay.
MOVING MAN (JACK)
We do good work too... and fast... (smiling at Connie) We'll have you and your husband in your new home by late afternoon. Don't you worry about a thing, ma'am?
CONNIE
He won't be joining us until next week. (clears her throat) He's on a business trip at the moment.
MOVING MAN (JACK)
Oh. Uh, well, (pause) we'll get you moved over with no problems, ma'am. If you don't mind, ma'am, I'll get to work now,
CONNIE
Of course. (pause) Thank you.
The men immediately start sorting, wrapping, and packing items into boxes. They work fast, efficiently and move out box after box into the truck. Working through the morning, long into the early afternoon. Eventually, the house was empty. Connie stands in the empty kitchen looking around.
MOVING MAN (JACK)
(walks into the kitchen) Ma'am, we're done packing up the house. If you wouldn't mind taking a walk around to make sure we got everything (pause) before we head to your new house.
CONNIE
Okay. I can do that.
MOVING MAN (JACK)
If it's all right with you, we'll wait by the truck, ma'am. (leaves kitchen)
Connie searches around the empty house. The entire downstairs was cleared out, she walks up the staircase. She hears Emma playing in her room.
CONNIE
Did they forget to take Emma's things? (opens her bedroom door, Emma sits on the floor in an empty room playing with a doll. She looked up quickly as her mother comes into the room)
Oh Emma, they certainly did a good job moving all your toys, didn't they?
EMMALINE
Yes, Mamma.
CONNIE
Honey, it's time to go. The house is empty.
Emmaline picks packs her doll into her bag.
MOVING MAN (JACK)
(stands in the doorway, clears his throat) Uh ... Excuse me, ma'am?
Connie jumps and turns around quickly
MOVING MAN (JACK)
My apologies, Ma'am. (long pause) Does everything appear to be loaded into the truck, Ma'am?
CONNIE
Huh? (snaps back into the present moment) Oh yes (pause) the house is empty. Thank you.
MOVING MAN (JACK)
Ma'am, in that case, if you don't mind, we'll start moving to the new house. Your husband gave me a key. We'll go on ahead and start unpacking and place the boxes where they belong ... uh ... if this is okay with you? That is...
CONNIE
You ... have a key? Paul (pause) gave you a key? Why do you have a key?
MOVING MAN (JACK)
Oh, I dunno, ma'am. He maybe thought it would be ... uh... easier for you.
CONNIE
(stern voice, irritated) Easier for me? (pause) easier for me? Do you know what would be easier for me?
MOVING MAN (JACK)
Ma'am, no... ma'am. I just do as I'm told. (he shrugs his shoulders, looks at Connie)
CONNIE
Oh ... of course, I'm sorry. No worries, I'll take this up with the appropriate person. (turns around, stares at the empty room from the doorway) Yes, go on ahead and start unpacking. I shouldn't be far behind anyway.
MOVING MAN (JACK)
Okay, ma'am. We are leaving now. Uh, Thank you.
CONNIE
(turns to watch Jack go down the staircase) No ... Thank you. (yells loudly) Emmaline? Where are you? You were just here.
EMMALINE
I'm right here mamma. (steps out into the hallway)
CONNIE
Honey, grab your things, we need to go to the new house now.
Emma picks up her bag and walks with her mother down the staircase and out the door. Connie looks back at the empty house.
CONNIE
Emma, this is the right decision.
EMMALINE
Okay, mamma.
CONNIE
Let's go find some new friends for you, Emmaline.
By Tirzah Greene
The House on the Hill
The Girl Next Door
Act I â€" Scene 5
CONNIE
VANESSA (Nessa) age 5 - Miranda's daughter â€" exuberant, talkative friendly girl
MIRANDA - Mother of Nessa â€" new neighbor â€" Friendly, Talkative
Connie stands staring at the new house. It is late afternoon and the movers had most of the boxes into the new house already. They are busy unpacking just as fast as they had packed up. Connie notices a young girl playing in the neighbor's yard next door. She had long brown hair a dirty face, wearing overalls and a t-shirt, playing with cars in the dirt. Connie watches the young girl and finally clears her throat to grab the little girl's attention.
VANESSA (NESSA)
(Looks up from playing in the dirt, sees Connie, immediately stands up and yells out)
Mom, they're here!"
A young woman walked out of the house onto the front porch. Sees Connie, she walks over, smiling, with her hand extended.
MIRANDA
Hi! Welcome to the neighborhood. It's nice to finally meet our new neighbor. My daughter (taps Vanessa on the head) has been waiting and waiting to meet you as well. This is Vanessa.
VANESSA (NESSA)
(irritated) Mom ... (turns away from Connie, whispers) It's ... Nessa.
MIRANDA
(sighs) Oh, yes. Sorry, my mistake, this is my daughter NESSA and my name is Miranda. It's nice to meet you.
VANESSA (NESSA)
(smiles a big toothless smile) Do you have any kids?
MIRANDA
Vanessa! Let our new neighbor speak ... before you ask such questions. (looks toward Connie) Sorry, she's a bit excited.
CONNIE
(Connie smiling, looks at Vanessa, awkwardly speaks)
Uhh... Thank you. I didn't expect a huge welcome to my new house.
VANESSA (NESSA)
(exuberantly) I've been waiting for you!
CONNIE
(nervously) WHY? Oh Uh ... thank you. Uh... Nice to meet you both.
MIRANDA
Well, you must have a busy day ahead of you. We just wanted to welcome you to the neighborhood.
VANESSA (NESSA)
(blurts out) Do the cops come to your house too?
MIRANDA
(astonished, embarrassed) VANESSA!
VANESSA (NESSA)
Nessa. (frowning) Mom.
CONNIE
(choosing her words carefully)
The police have been to your home? Is that what Nessa is telling me?
MIRANDA
(Loud sigh) Ummmm... Nessa! (sigh) She loves talking to everyone... particularly adults. (looks at NESSA, sharp tone) That's private business, Nessa!
CONNIE
(stares at Miranda cautiously) So (pause) what the child says is ... true, then?
MIRANDA
Ugh ... I'm sorry. She ... yes, it WAS true at one time. But not any more ... (stern voice) Right? Vanessa. (sincere tone, looks at Connie) We are not problem neighbors. Sincerely. (pause) She's only 5 and doesn't fully understand... (trails off speaking) Her father... (sigh)
CONNIE
Her father?
MIRANDA
We're divorced! (pause) He doesn't live with us anymore. (looks at Vanessa) We are working on not talking about it with everyone. Right, Nessa?
Vanessa frowns and pulls a car out of her pocket to play with.
CONNIE
Well, uh... Miranda. I'm not just anyone. You can tell me your story.
MIRANDA
(taken off guard) Oh, I ... already did. We are divorced and he doesn't live with us anymore. Not much more to tell than that, really. (long pause) What about you? So rude of us to take away from your big day. Paul said you were excited to move.
CONNIE
Paul? You've spoken with Paul?
MIRANDA
Uh, yes. I met him when he was here one day with the real estate lady. (pause) Nice. It was nice to meet him. (Connie stares says nothing) Uh... that's why we were so excited to meet you today. He told us all about you. (smiles awkwardly)
CONNIE
He told you about me? (pause) What did he tell you?
MIRANDA
Nothing ... nothing much. Just how much you like the house ... and ... ahhhh... how much you are looking forward to living in a nice neighborhood with ... nice neighbors... (pause) We're not crazy... I promise. (sigh) Look, my ex is an addict. He caused a lot of problems for us... right, Nessa?
VANESSA (NESSA)
(quietly) Yeah.
MIRANDA
He's gone now. (looks at Vanessa) Nothing to worry about anymore.
CONNIE
Police, huh. Well, one thing I do know. Addicts and police go hand in hand. Don't they?
MIRANDA
(solemnly) They sure do. That's very true. (pause) Anyway, welcome again, to the neighborhood. We've been excited to meet you.
CONNIE
(touched) Thank you, Miranda. Thank you. (looks at Nessa) Nessa, it's an absolute pleasure to meet you as well. (quickly turns to Miranda) Miranda, you do know you can talk to me about your... (whispers) husband. Anytime. My Paul ... isn't an addict but I do understand husbands and their ways my dear.
MIRANDA
Uh, thanks.
CONNIE
(bends down to speak face to face with Nessa) As for you, you can always come and talk to me. (coughs) If your mother will allow it. Okay, little one? You can always talk to me. I will always listen to you. That is if your mother allows it. Okay?
VANESSA (NESSA)
Okay! You're going to be a fun neighbor. I can tell already.
MIRANDA
Thank you. Nessa, let's go.
VANESSA (NESSA)
Ahh, mom!
MIRANDA
Nessa, you heard me. We'll meet again after you are all settled into your new house. (pause) Oh.... I forgot! Your key!
Miranda immediately turns and runs quickly into her house, disappears for a minute. Reappears and runs back holding out a ring with keys on it.
(out of breath) Oh my goodness... how stupid of me? You wouldn't be able to get into the house. So sorry!
CONNIE
(reluctantly taking the keys) How do you have my keys and I do not? Can you tell me this?
MIRANDA
Ah, Paul asked me to give them to you... the day you ... move... in. (Sigh) He didn't tell you?
CONNIE
He did not. This is nothing unusual, however. Remember Dear, I can tell you all about the foibles of men, starting with Paul. (pause) Are you certain he didn't tell you anything else? ... about... us?
MIRANDA
(confused) About what?
CONNIE
Oh, I don't know. He lies so much. It's often difficult to tell ... what on earth he would be telling others (long pause) about me.
MIRANDA
(pause) No, he said you were excited to move in.... and give you the keys because he thought you would have enough on your mind today. Jack gave it to me after the movers first got here this morning. I haven't had it very long. If you are worried about that...
CONNIE
Do I look worried, dear?
MIRANDA
No! (sigh) I'm just used to guys ... being jerks is all. I totally understand what you mean by the ways of men. (pause) Connie, sincerely. You have nothing to worry about with me. Okay?
CONNIE
Yes, it would seem as though I don't have anything to worry about here. Thank you, Miranda.
VANESSA (NESSA)
(grabs her mother hand and tugs it) I'm hungry.
MIRANDA
We better make lunch in that case. Connie, it's nice to meet you. We'll see you again I'm certain.
CONNIE
That would be ... nice. (looks back to the house) I do have a lot of work to do.
Workers going in and out furiously trying to finish the move before dark.
MIRANDA
Nessa ... let's go.
VANESSA (NESSA)
Oh-kay.
CONNIE
(watches them both walk away) Goodbye. (turns to look at the new house, smiles, under her breath) This is a good decision.
By Tirzah Greene
The House on the Hill
Stand by Me
Act 2 â€" Scene 1
Vanessa intently watches Connie while playing with her toys in her yard. Connie works in her garden digging dirt to plant flowers. In a box, sitting next to her are geraniums in small pots.
VANESSA
(sneaks up behind Connie) What are you doing?
CONNIE
Nessa, there you are! (looks up from the garden) I was wondering if you were EVER going to come over and speak to me. (pause) What have you been doing? I'm getting the garden ready to plant flowers. Aren't they pretty?
VANESSA
(pouting) I was playing ... by myself. My mom won't play with me.
CONNIE
Oh, I see. Is your mother busy?
Walking toward Connie, Vanessa stops and starts kicking at the box of flowers.
VANESSA
(frowning) Can you play with me?
CONNIE
Does your mother know you are outside? (under her breath) ... dressed in dirty clothes?
Umm, I'm a little busy with the garden at the moment.
Vanessa rolls her eyes and starts kicking at the box again
VANESSA
My Mom never plays with me.
CONNIE
(pause) Well ... why don't you help me plant these flowers? Look, there are pink, red, and purple ones just waiting for you to plant in the holes I'm digging. Here. Plant this one. (hands Vanessa a pink flower)
VANESSA
Okay.
CONNIE
Do you ever plant flowers with your mother?
VANESSA
(throws the flower on the ground)
No.
CONNIE
If you're going to be huffy about this young lady, then perhaps you should go play by yourself. (pause) I want my flowers to look nice. (hands her the flower she dropped) Nessa ... what is your mother doing today? You never said.
VANESSA
Mom...
CONNIE
Yes ... Here, you take the flower out of the pot, like this, and then put it in the ground like that. (pause, smiling) Is it a big secret? Is your mother planning a big surprise for you? Hmmm???
VANESSA
Mom ... (digging in the ground) is in her room.
CONNIE
Good job ... in her room? Is she ill?
VANESSA
No, she's just tired all of the time.
CONNIE
Oh, I see. (looks at Vanessa) Do you take care of yourself a lot?
VANESSA
Yes, and my mom too. She said not that I'm eight, I should be able to do a lot of stuff by myself.
CONNIE
Well, I suppose this is true (pause) at some point. Has your father come back?
VANESSA
No, he's in prison. Drugs. I'm not supposed to tell anyone.
CONNIE
Well, yes. But your mother had already mentioned this to me. So, it's all right. Don't worry. I won't tell her. Okay?
VANESSA
Okay. I have no one to play with.
CONNIE
Oh, you don't have any siblings? A sister or brother?
VANESSA
I asked my Mom for a brother once.
CONNIE
Oh, well ... what did she say?
VANESSA
She told me they are overrated.
CONNIE
Interesting reply.
VANESSA
She told me to be happy I have a cat. (pause) but he ran away last year in a bad storm. (shrugs)
CONNIE
Oh, I didn't know about this. I'm so sorry. It can be lonely without someone to play with, right?
VANESSA
Yes.
CONNIE
(hands Vanessa another flower) Here. Why don't you plant this one? Purple is my favorite color.
VANESSA
I even found one online. He looked like he would be a good brother.
CONNIE
Online?
VANESSA
(excitedly) Yes! I found an adoption web page on the computer. His name is Michael. I think he would be a good brother ... not a bad one. He's four.
CONNIE
Is it that easy? Can you simply pick out children on the internet to adopt? That would almost be like choosing children right off of the street to take home with you. I always thought there is a huge process in adopting children. What did your mother think?
VANESSA
(frowning) She thought if he would be a good brother... I should... put my picture next to his on the computer and see if ... we could be adopted together.
CONNIE
Oh... well, that's an interesting solution. Isn't it? (looks at Vanessa) I'm certain we could think of a better solution than that. Don't you think?
VANESSA
I don't know. I told her I was going to run away. That was my solution.
CONNIE
Oh my! You are serious about wanting a sibling then? (pause) Running away is a big, scary, adventure isn't it? Were you certain you wanted to do that?"
VANESSA
Yes, I was! And AM! I told my mom if you won't get me a brother. I'm going to run away!
CONNIE
... you're still here though. You didn't get too far away, or did you?
VANESSA
I didn't want to leave my stuffed animals.
CONNIE
You're stuffed animals?
VANESSA
My Mom said ... "Go pack your bags then and make certain you take all of your toys. Don't forget your favorite stuffed animals. Don't forget anything important. Because after you go, I'm going to pack up all of your things and give them to kids in an orphanage for kids who WANT parents."
CONNIE
Your mother said this to you?
VANESSA
Yeah. She usually tells me to go away when she's busy... with her friends.
CONNIE
Your mother is interesting. She has unique ways of solving problems.
VANESSA
I guess so. (shrugs) I still have no one to play with either.
CONNIE
Oh, I see. So, let me get this straight. You don't want to run away?
VANESSA
No.
CONNIE
I didn't think living the hobo life in the street was for you but you seem rather invested in it for a moment.
VANESSA
No. I just want someone to play with.
CONNIE
(smiling) You can stay here. You can always help me plant flowers. (pause) If you want.
Connie stands up and walks over to the box with one flower left in it. She hands the flower to Vanessa and looks back into the box.
(shouts) Wait a minute! What is this?
VANESSA
(immediately stops, walks over to Connie looks into the box)
What?
CONNIE
What is that in the box? This wasn't in here earlier. Where on earth did this come from? (reaching into the box pulling out a pom-pom)
VANESSA
It's just a big cotton ball.
CONNIE
I don't think so. (pause) I know whom this belongs to... but it can't be.
VANESSA
It's just a poofy thing... (shrugs)
CONNIE
Poofy thing? (sigh) No, I know whom this belongs to... But how did it get in here? (Pause, excitedly) He must have come back!
VANESSA
Back?
CONNIE
Yes, Bob was his name.
VANESSA
Bob? Who's Bob?
CONNIE
Well, he was my friend ... but it didn't end very well.
VANESSA
(inquisitive look) End?
CONNIE
Yes, I hate to admit this but ... I killed him. He died. It was a long time ago.
VANESSA
... you killed him?
CONNIE
Yes, and this pom-pom was ... his toy. But how did it come back? That's impossible (pause) it was such a long time ago.
VANESSA
I don't know! (stares wide-eyed at the pom-pom)
CONNIE
He must be back from the dead. It's that simple. (shrugs)
VANESSA
He's a ghost?
CONNIE
Oh no! Bob was much better than a ghost. (pause) You see ... Bob was my imaginary friend when I was five.
VANESSA
Really?
CONNIE
Yes! Really. We did everything together. We played together. We went on trips to the moon. We once traveled the ocean in a box ... just like this one right here.
VANESSA
You did?
CONNIE
Oh yes! He was quite fun to play with.
VANESSA
(serious) Then why did you kill him?
CONNIE
Believe me, it wasn't a proud moment of mine, I haven't seen him since, either.
VANESSA
What happened?
CONNIE
Hmmm ... I don't recall all of the details. However, we fought, and ... well (pause) I flushed him down the toilet. (pause) It was a sad, horrible day.
VANESSA
Wow! That is bad! What did he do?
CONNIE
I don't remember exactly. All I can remember is getting mad at him ... and ... flushing him down the toilet. (smiling at Vanessa) However, he appears to be back, would you agree? I haven't seen this toy in years. (showing Vanessa, the pom-pom)
VANESSA
He must be back!
CONNIE
I would think so. I often found him in my room hiding in the closet. That was a favorite hiding place of his. Why? I don't know. I preferred to hide under the bed ... maybe that's what we were fighting about. (pauses, shrugs, smiles) I don't know.
Miranda yells from the distance, "Vanessa... where are you?"
VANESSA
Ummm, that's my Mom. (looks at the box) Can I have ... this box?
CONNIE
I was just going to throw that away.
VANESSA
No! Can I have it? ... Please.
CONNIE
I suppose so ... I'm done with it anyway.
VANESSA
Ummmm ...
CONNIE
Yes?
VANESSA
Umm ... Ummm ... can I have ... Bob too?
Miranda yells again from a distance, "Vanessa! Come home!"
CONNIE
(sigh)I suppose so. Yes, that probably would be a better idea if you kept him in your bedroom. I might get mad and flush him down the toilet, again. He probably wouldn't like that. I can't even imagine how he got out? It was a big, powerful flush too. (handing her the pom-pom) You should ask him how he got out. I'm curious to know.
VANESSA
I will! (runs home with her box). I'm right here ... Mom!
CONNIE
(yells out to Vanessa) Nessa! Come back another day! I've got more plants to go into the garden!
VANESSA
Okay! BYE!
Connie cleans up the garden tools and places them in the shed. She walks toward the house.
CONNIE
(yells) Emmaline! I have a surprise for you...
By Tirzah Greene
The House on the Hill
Act 2 â€" Scene 2
Between Friends
Connie
Miranda
Vanessa
It's mid-day, Connie works in her garden planting fruits and vegetables. Miranda comes home from shopping with Vanessa and stops to talk while she works in her garden.
MIRANDA
(carrying grocery bags walking with Vanessa who is pulling a wagon with groceries) Come on Nessa! Not too much further ... we can do it!
NESSA
Mom ... (struggling to pull the wagon) this is heavy. Why didn't we take the car?
MIRANDA
Oh, Nessa ... you know why. Our car needs to be fixed. (sigh) Now come on ... not too much further.
NESSA
Hey! There is Connie! (waving) Hi Connie!
Connie turns around and sees Miranda and Nessa hauling groceries up their driveway.
CONNIE
Well ... Good Afternoon! My ... you two have been busy. Do you need some assistance?
MIRANDA
No, Nessa can bring in the groceries. She's a good little helper, right Ness? (turns to Nessa) Please take all the groceries into the kitchen, okay? Just place them in the kitchen by the cupboard ... I'll put them away. You don't have to help me with that ... all right? Do we have a deal?
NESSA
Ohhhh ... I want to talk to Connie. (pause) Not put stupid groceries away.
MIRANDA
You don't have to put them away. All you have to do is bring the bags into the kitchen. The faster you do this ... the faster you can come out here to visit with Miss Connie. Okay?
CONNIE
Nessa, you best do as your mother asks of you. Like she says, the faster you do your work, the faster you can come out here and help me plant strawberries? Would you like to help plant strawberries?
MIRANDA
That sounds like fun! What do you think Nessa? We have to buy our strawberries.
NESSA
(frowning) Fine! But I'm not helping you put them away. (she turns and walks to the wagon)
CONNIE
Hmmm... a little tired perhaps?
MIRANDA
(sigh) perhaps ... Ummm. Thank you.
CONNIE
(surprised) What on earth for?
MIRANDA
For taking care of her the other day. (pause) I was ... uh... busy. She told me you were telling her stories about an imaginary friend.
CONNIE
Oh, that! Yes, I was ... (pause) simply entertaining the poor child. She was out here all by herself you know.
MIRANDA
Yes. She told me.
CONNIE
She wasn't ... the most... happy with you that day. Are you aware of this? (whispers) She wanted to run away. You know.
MIRANDA
Yes. I'm well aware. (pause) Since Peter left ... (sigh) She is difficult for me to handle at times.
CONNIE
Oh yes ... prison? When did he go to prison again?
MIRANDA
(surprised) PRISON? No...no... who told? Oh... VANESSA! (sighs) Connie, you can't always go by what Vanessa is telling you. She often lies. It's something we are working on. He isn't in prison. He went to rehab for drug addiction. (pause) He was becoming more and more abusive ... physically with me ... and ... Vanessa. (pause) He was taken away after the police were called. He spent some time in jail and then was required to go into rehab to get off the drugs. That's where he is now. He isn't supposed to have any contact with me or Vanessa.
CONNIE
How terrible? I'm so sorry to hear this.
MIRANDA
I promise ... we are not troublesome neighbors. He's gone.
CONNIE
Don't worry, Miranda ... truly ... don't worry about what I think.
MIRANDA
Umm... Nessa hasn't stopped talking about Bob.
CONNIE
Who?
MIRANDA
... uh... the imaginary friend ... you ... gave her.
CONNIE
Oh! Silly me... of course... I apologize I was so lost in your story ... I didn't think. (pause) May I ask you a personal question, my dear?
MIRANDA
Yes.
CONNIE
I don't mean to be ... rude (pause) How old are you? You seem rather young to have a daughter who is?
MIRANDA
Vanessa just turned eight. (pause) I will be twenty-two in the fall. I was ... rather young when I had Vanessa... thirteen.
CONNIE
Thirteen? That's not much older than Nessa ... and ... (stops talking abruptly)
MIRANDA
Yeah. I was pretty young ...
CONNIE
Where was your mother at the time? If you don't mind my asking?
MIRANDA
My mother died when I was seven. She was a drug addict ... too. (sighs) She got sick and died. I don't remember much about it.
CONNIE
Oh, my word! How sad? No mother... Who raised you? Your father?
MIRANDA
No. I don't know who my father is. I just bounced around between people... finally got pregnant and pulled out of the homes I was living in. (shrugs) My mother taught me how to do drugs. I started smoking pot like her. I eventually moved into m ... umm.. harder drugs. which is how... I ... uh ... (abruptly) I don't do drugs anymore. Please believe me.
CONNIE
I see ... and Vanessa's father? Is he... Peter?
MIRANDA
He's no one. (long pause) Do you grow your fruits and vegetables?
CONNIE
What? (pause) Oh ... why yes, I do. My mother... um... taught me ... how to garden when I was young.
MIRANDA
Nessa doesn't stop talking about her friend Bob... I don't think of things like that ... you know ... to do with her. I'm too busy trying to pay the bills usually.
CONNIE
I see. (pause) Do you have a lot of ... (coughs) friends?
MIRANDA
I'm not trouble. I promise.
Vanessa comes running out and yells ... "I'm finished with my work".
CONNIE
Here she comes! (smiles) Well, good for you! Now you can help me plant in my garden.
NESSA
You will let me? (pause) But ... I don't have any of ... those things. (points to Connie's gardening tools)
CONNIE
Don't worry! You can use mine! I have plenty of gardening tools for both of us. Okay?
MIRANDA
Nessa... did you know Miss Connie plants her fruits and vegetables? Isn't that cool? We don't plant anything, do we?
VANESSA
No! I didn't know you can plant your fruits and vegetables. Can you show me how?
CONNIE
Of course! It will be fun! I have some plants right over here.
VANESSA
Wow... your daughter is so lucky!
CONNIE
My ... what?
VANESSA
Your daughter... uncle Paul said...
MIRANDA
(immediately interrupts) NESSA!!! What are you saying?
CONNIE
(under her breath) ... uncle... Paul?
MIRANDA
PETER ... Nessa... PETER. (turns quickly toward Connie) I've told her not to talk about him anymore. She ... made up a name... for him. She liked Paul when we met him... so, she uses his name instead. (sighs) It's all imaginary stuff ... Connie. I swear.
VANESSA
Mom! I ...
MIRANDA
(immediately interrupts) She doesn't have a 'real' dad ... and just wishes she did sometimes. That's all, Connie. That's all.
CONNIE
No worries, Miranda. No worries. Don't worry about me. (pause) We both know men can be real jerks now, can't we? (turns to Vanessa) Why don't you pick out a strawberry plant and let's find a good spot for it in OUR garden? Okay, Nessa?
MIRANDA
Umm... I'm going to put groceries away. (pause) You two have fun.
CONNIE
All right, my Dear. We'll be out here learning how to plant fruits and vegetables. Don't worry about us.
VANESSA
Yeah, Mom. You go do YOUR work now. I want to play with Miss Connie.
CONNIE
You heard the child, Miranda. (pause) Go do your work. (glares at Miranda) I'll be out here teaching Vanessa how to plant strawberries.
MIRANDA
Have ... um... fun. (turns to walk away) Just send her home when she becomes a pain in the ass! Bye.
CONNIE
(looks at Vanessa) Why? You're never a pain in the ass? (smiles) Are you?
VANESSA
NEVER! ... I'm just like your daughter.
By Tirzah Greene
The House on the Hill
Two Hearts
ACT 2 â€" Scene 3
It's late evening, Connie is home alone and hears a noise out in her garden. She rushes out to find Paul digging holes to plant bushes.
CONNIE
What are you doing? (watches Paul digging) Paul! What on earth are you doing in my garden?
Paul stands up, sweating and out of breath.
PAUL
Ah, there you are ... Look! (slurred speech) I have something for you.
CONNIE
Oh, what could it be? (pause) A bottle of? What, Paul. You tell me.
PAUL
(slurring, stumbling as he walks toward Connie) Now, Connie. Is that any way to speak to your husband?
CONNIE
You're drunk! (Pause) Get out of my garden... you're wrecking it! Get out!
PAUL
(slurring) Connie ... Connie... Connie. I'm not wrecking your garden. (Pause) I have something special ... (pause) for you. (he walks up to her, trips, and grabs her hand, looks at her lovingly) "Costanza ... Amore Mio... mia Bella moglie."
CONNIE
Please stop. I don't find this amusing, Paul.
PAUL
You've been working hard in your garden. I wanted to get you something special, just for you.
CONNIE
(softly) Paul, let me go.
Paul pulls her in closer and inspects her wrists.
(nervous, softly speaking) Paul (pause) let me go. Please. (Paul exposes both of her wrists)
PAUL
(slurred speech) These have healed up nicely... right, Connie? Don't you agree? What was it? 37 stitches? Wow... that must have hurt. (he lets her arms go)
Connie steps backward away from Paul.
CONNIE
You would know...
PAUL
There you go again. Connie, how could I possibly know how much your (pause) self-inflicted injuries hurt you?
CONNIE
Yes. (quietly) All over my arms, the back of my neck, and (pause) shoulder too. You've been drinking ... Okay, Paul? It was a long time ago now, let's not talk about this right now. (pause)
PAUL
What difference does that make? Connie... how could I possibly know what it feels like ... when you slit your own wrists ... like a loon. Right? Am I wrong, Connie? (sarcastically) Please tell me how wrong I am... you always do. (Grabs her by the shoulders, stares in her eyes) Go ahead... tell me how wrong I am. (moves her out of his way, grabs the shovel, returns to digging)
CONNIE
What ... Ummm... what are you planting?
PAUL
Oh, Connie... Mia Bella Donna. (trips, smiles, points to the bushes) These are for you? All for you, my love.
CONNIE
I'm your love? Am I? (long pause) Or one of ... your loves. You tell me.
PAUL
(starts laughing) Connie, you are your own worst enemy. Remember what the doctor said... you get confused sometimes... and forget what you do ... and say? Remember?
CONNIE
No, I don't Paul.
PAUL
That's part of the problem, Connie... you do things ... terrible things to yourself... forget ALL about it, and then blame me.
CONNIE
I do, Paul?
PAUL
Yes, that's right Connie. You do. Trust me... you do. (pause) This is why I have to be in charge of you and your financial and legal dealings. The doctors thought it best, that I am in charge... due to you and ... well, your issues.
CONNIE
Do I fuck the neighborhood whore too, Paul?
PAUL
What? Why would you say such a thing? Connie, listen to yourself... this isn't ... (stares into her eyes) right. Are you delusional ... again? Connie, are you?
CONNIE
I know it isn't... Paul. I know. (long pause) Believe me, I know. (stands in silence) I'm not making much sense, am I? (pause) I'm sorry Paul. I'll do better.
PAUL
You had better, Connie. I don't want to call ... again... do you want me to call ... again?
CONNIE
(smiles, changes topic, points to the bushes) They are beautiful bushes. What are they called? They seem familiar.
PAUL
(walks over to the newly planted bushes) They are... aren't they? I had them delivered special ... for you. I knew you would... (sigh) I had hoped you would like them. Do you?
CONNIE
I do. I think Nessa will like them too.
PAUL
(loudly) Keep that brat out of the garden! DO you hear me?
CONNIE
Why? Oh, Paul, she's a little girl. (pause) We've been planting the garden together ... all spring. You can't make her stay out of it.
PAUL
Keep her out. She probably will steal whatever you have growing in here and not think twice about it. She's that type, you know. (grabs Connie by the arm again and tugs her) Do you hear me?
CONNIE
Yes, Paul. (pause) Umm... it's just ... that...
PAUL
It's just what? (sighs) What don't you understand about keeping ... that thief ... out of this garden?
CONNIE
Oh, well... I do understand but ... Paul, her mother ... (long pause) we've worked too hard on this ... she would be heartbroken to find out she can't come back. Please ... Paul. She's waiting for the blueberries and strawberries to ripen. Paul... it's her only happiness. Her mother...
PAUL
Her mother, what Connie, what about her mother? (pause) Are we slipping again, accusing innocent people again, Connie?
CONNIE
NO, of course not. I was just going to say... Ummm.... Their car is broken... and getting to the grocery store is difficult. So, I told them both... uh.... They could get some produce from the garden when it ripens. That's all I was going to say, Paul. That's all. (pause) She's so excited Paul. Please, don't do this.
PAUL
Excited? Excited to see you?
CONNIE
Yes, only to work in the garden. That's all, Paul. That's all.
PAUL
Do you talk with her mother a lot, Connie?
CONNIE
Of course not, I never see her. She is usually busy ... working (glances at Paul to see his reaction).
Paul walks over to the lawn chair and table. He pours another drink and downs it in one gulp.
PAUL
What else do you know about her?
CONNIE
Nothing much. Her name is Miranda... she's 21. (shrugs) Vanessa is her daughter. They are by themselves, her significant other is ... well... (whispers) a drug addict.
PAUL
A drug addict?
CONNIE
(sits down in the chair opposite the table) Yes. I guess he's no longer around, however.
PAUL
You ... know all of this? What else do you know? You know a lot about her for never speaking to her.
CONNIE
Nothing, Paul. I spoke with her once, a while ago. Since then, I only see... well, Vanessa. Miranda is usually too busy to play with her. So, she comes over here and helps me in the garden. (long pause) Paul, Nessa would be so disappointed if she couldn't come over here to help me in the garden. (pause) I don't think they have much money either, Paul.
Paul lovingly looks at Connie, his speech slurred, and grabs her hands lovingly.
PAUL
Do you really ... love the bushes? I got them ... especially for you, Connie.
CONNIE
I do, Paul.
PAUL
(looks into the distance, glossy eyes, away from Connie) You said to me and meant it ... once. (pause) If I allow her over here... do you promise? (stops)
CONNIE
Promise? Promise what, Paul... what?
PAUL
(sigh) What happens to ... Emmaline?
CONNIE
(shocked, horrified) What do you mean... what happens to... Emmaline?
PAUL
The doctors said... she should go away after some time. It's been a long time, Connie. Emmaline needs to go away ... now.
CONNIE
(turns away from Paul, in shock, whispers) My Emmaline... my baby girl. (clutching her chest) My baby... gone?
PAUL
It's the ONLY way I will allow Vanessa to come over here to work in the garden with you. It's the only way... (long pause) It's in your best interest Connie. Remember this... okay?
CONNIE
(looks at Paul bewildered) In my best interest, Paul?
PAUL
Do we have a deal? Connie? Yes or no.
CONNIE
(talking to herself) You'll take away my baby from me? ... You'll take her away? Gone?
PAUL
You need to send her away Connie. You have to do this. It's in the best interest of your mental health. The doctor said so, do you remember? Connie? Do you? (pause) Do we have a deal? Vanessa can come over if you send Emmaline ... away. Okay?
CONNIE
(tears streaming down her face) Whatever you say, Paul. (sigh) Whatever you say.
Paul pours another drink and takes a sip.
PAUL
That's right, Connie. Just remember ... whatever I say is right. Okay? (pauses, changes topic) Now, look at those bushes. They are the most beautiful bushes ... I've ever seen. Right, Connie? (smiling)
CONNIE
(glances at the bushes) Whatever you say, Paul.
PAUL
Don't you want to know what kind of bushes they are?
CONNIE
You said you weren't going to tell me.
Paul takes another sip and smiles.
PAUL
Connie... you know I'm just playing with you, right? (laughs) They are a hybrid Northern Highbush Blueberry plant. (laughs harder) Vanessa ... told me ... those are her favorite ... berries. HA! (slaps her on the leg, laughing). (sigh) What did you say? Miranda ... is that her name? (slurred speech, looking over the fence toward Miranda's house) She's having problems with her car?
By Tirzah Greene
The House on the Hill
ACT 2 â€" Scene 4
Blueberry Hill
CONNIE
NESSA
Connie is sitting at her patio table overlooking her garden. Nessa is quietly watching her from the fence line. She makes a noise, Connie notices her.
CONNIE
(out loud) BOY! My garden sure is growing. It's only been three months and LOOK how big and tall my plants are... Why ... even the berries are almost ready to pick. (glances toward Nessa quietly watching) Of course, I don't have anyone to help me pick the berries. (loud sigh) Oh, I guess I'll just have to ask Paul... he'll be back tonight. Too bad, he doesn't know how to pick berries... Hmmm??? I need a well-trained gardener. One who knows how to pick berries... especially blueberries. (Nessa moves closer, stands behind Connie)
NESSA
Bob... misses you.
CONNIE
(pretending to be startled) What was that? (turns around) Vanessa! Is it really you? I've missed you. (hugs her) Where have you been?
NESSA
(smiles slightly) Bob misses you. (pause) He told me to tell you.
CONNIE
He does? I'm happy to hear this. I haven't seen him in such a long time. How is he doing?
NESSA
He's been with me and I've been taking care of him. Ummm... he's not mad anymore. He likes living with me though.
CONNIE
Oh well, if he likes living with you, you better keep him at your house. (Connie sits back down) Does he play games with you?
NESSA
We play hide and seek a lot.
CONNIE
You do?
NESSA
Yeah. We hide from my mom.
CONNIE
Your mom? Why do you hide from your mom?
NESSA
When her friends come over ... that's when we hide.
CONNIE
Nessa. Why haven't you come over to my house? You can always come and help me with the garden or cooking when your mother's friends come over. You know this. (pause) Why haven't you?
NESSA
My mom said not to bother you anymore.
CONNIE
(surprised) She did? Huh... I wonder why she said this. (pause) I enjoy having you help me. Don't you like to come over and visit with me? If you don't ... it's all right, Vanessa. I don't mind.
NESSA
I do... but... my mom said not to. (pause) Ummm ... She thought, I would make you sad.
CONNIE
Make me sad? Oh, heaven's no. I enjoy having you visit. I do. You are such a good helper in the garden too. (points to the garden) See all of your hard work, I think we can even start picking strawberries and blueberries. What do you think? (long pause) Why, do you suppose your mother would tell you that I would be sad? Because I'm not. I'm happy my garden is growing so nicely.
NESSA
Ummm... she said ... because of your daughter. (rolling her eyes, shrugs) I told her you don't have one. But she said you ... did.
CONNIE
(shocked) What? Who... How? Ummm... Nessa, please sit down next to me in this chair. (points to the patio chair) There you go. Now, (pause) what exactly did your mother say about... my daughter?
NESSA
(surprised) You do have one? I didn't believe her...
CONNIE
What did she say? (pause) Nessa... please tell me.
NESSA
My mom said she was stolen.
CONNIE
(grimaces, sighs loudly) What else did she say?
NESSA
That she isn't alive anymore, but you think she is. (pause) She said that Uncle... uh... Mr. Paul is worried about you and not to bother you anymore because you have better things to do than play with me. (looks at Connie) Is it true?
CONNIE
Uh ... oh my... (sigh) Nessa? Do you see Paul a lot ... at your house?
NESSA
(looks at the ground) I'm not supposed to tell you.
CONNIE
So ... this is why you don't visit me anymore?
NESSA
My mom won't let me go outside anymore ... if...
CONNIE
If?
NESSA
... if ... she sees you in the garden. (pause) Please don't tell her I said anything! Please. She said you are ... crazy. So, I should stay away from you. (looks at the ground) because of your daughter being taken and all.
CONNIE
I see. (pause) Nessa? ... Do YOU think I'm crazy?
NESSA
Uh... (looks anxiously back toward her house) No, I think you are ... (quietly) fun. (long pause) Do you ... have a daughter?
CONNIE
(stares at the ground) Yes. I did ... once. I did have a daughter. (smiles, happy) ... and she was just as beautiful as you are, Nessa. She used to help me in the garden too... sometimes.
NESSA
Really? ... but someone took her?
CONNIE
Yes. A bad man took her away. (pause) A very bad man.
NESSA
Did he bring her back?
CONNIE
Oh my... such questions. Ah, well... no, he didn't bring her back. (pause) He took her far away ... and... (stops abruptly, looks down)
NESSA
Hurt her?
CONNIE
(sharp tone) Did your mother tell you this?
NESSA
No.
CONNIE
Did ... Paul ... tell you this?
NESSA
No. (pause) I hide when he comes over to talk to my mom.
CONNIE
Nessa. (pause) Look at me ... why do you hide when Paul comes over?
NESSA
Bob hides with me.
CONNIE
Bob? Does ... Bob ... keep you ... safe, Nessa?
NESSA
(anxiously looking over her shoulder) My mom said I shouldn't be here...
CONNIE
If you are here ... where ... is your mother?
NESSA
She's gone.
CONNIE
Gone? Well, where is she? ... is she coming back? Are you by yourself?
NESSA
I don't know. She didn't tell me. She just said she'd be back at the end of the week ... and to listen ... and do as I'm told.
CONNIE
Do as you're told? By whom?
NESSA
(looks at her house nervously) I don't know... uhh... I don't remember their names.
CONNIE
You don't know their names? Do you even know who these people are?
NESSA
No. (pause) My mom just buys her ... her... medicine from him.
CONNIE
I see. When will she be back then?
NESSA
I think tomorrow.
CONNIE
Tomorrow? (long sigh, shaking her head) You have an interesting mother. (pause, looks at the garden, excited tone) Hey! Do you know what my daughter would do, whenever she was afraid?
NESSA
Hide?
CONNIE
Oh, yes... possibly. She would also, pick blueberries from the garden, place them into a bowl and keep them by her bed. She would eat one blueberry every time she thought she heard a monster hiding under her bed. When the bowl was empty, the monster ... would disappear. Do you know this trick?
NESSA
I don't have monsters in my room. (pause) Does it work with bad men too?
CONNIE
Bad men? Do you know about bad men?
NESSA
(nods her head yes, looks down)
CONNIE
Your mother's friends? (pause) Are they bad men?
NESSA
(long silence, softly) No. (pause) Uncle... Pa ... I mean (sigh) ... Uncle Peter ... (softly) is a bad man though. (looks down)
CONNIE
(long pause, kneels in front of Vanessa) Nessa ... (whispers) Does he hurt you?
NESSA
(nods her head yes, she looks over at her house, sees the porch light on) Oh, I have to go! The light is on. Please don't tell ... I was here. Please?
CONNIE
Of course not. (grabs her by the arm gently) Nessa ... if you are ever scared. Remember, you can pick blueberries from the garden and keep them by your bedside. Okay? You can pick them whenever you want, even if I'm not out here. Can you remember this?
NESSA
(smiles) Yes. (pause, looks at the house) I have to go! Bye.
Connie watches as Vanessa makes her way back over to her house.
CONNIE
(waves, sad tone) Bye.
By Tirzah Greene
The House on the Hill
Love Letters
Act 2 â€" Scene 5
Connie finds Paul asleep on the couch in his office. He has an empty gin bottle and glass on the table next to him. She walks approaches Paul cautiously. He's passed out with a letter clutched in his hand. She slowly takes the letter out of his hand. Reads the letter, immediately becomes upset, places it in her pocket. Upset, she leaves the room and returns with a knife. She holds the knife to his neck as he sleeps. Paul begins to stir in his sleep.
CONNIE
I hope she was worth it, Paul. She's only twenty-one years old. You disgusting pig. (Yells) How could you? ... Again, Paul? You put our family in jeopardy. How could you?
Paul groggily wakes up and sees Connie standing looming over him. He starts to sit up but Connie pushes the blade harder into his throat. He backs down instantly.
PAUL
Connie, there you are. I was looking all over for you. (pause) I've missed you.
CONNIE
I know Paul. (pause) I look so much like a gin bottle, don't I?
PAUL
Connie, I just got back from a long work trip. Cut me some slack, okay?
CONNIE
... with your whore?
PAUL
(surprised) What? What are you talking about?
CONNIE
You didn't know? The new love of your life ... is a common prostitute.
Connie holds the blade steady. Paul tries to place his hand over hers but she pushes harder on the blade.
Afraid, Paul? Afraid of ... what I'll do?
PAUL
Connie, no. I'm never afraid of you, my love. You are my one and only. You know this. (long pause) You are simply having a difficult time right now. The anniversary of Emmaline's...
CONNIE
Of what Paul? Emmaline's what? I want to hear your version. Go ahead, I'm listening.
PAUL
Connie. My ... dear ... sweet Connie. (Pause) I think we should call the doctor. You don't seem to be doing so well. Please, take the knife away... and let's just talk, okay?
CONNIE
Of what, Paul? I want to hear what you have to say ... when you have a knife up against your throat. Is this a little too ... familiar, Paul?
PAUL
Connie, you're confused again. Listen to me. (pause) You're safe. No one will hurt you, not here. Take the knife away... okay?
CONNIE
I'm just as safe as Emmaline? Is that what you are telling me, Paul? Is it? Hmmm?? (pause) Just as safe as my precious baby girl?
PAUL
Connie, please. (he places his hand over hers on the knife) Please. (pleading, staring in her eyes)
CONNIE
You look a little worried, Paul. Why is this? Are you afraid of dying? Or afraid I will spill your secrets to your whore? (pause) I saw the blood, Paul.
PAUL
Connie, stay with me. You are hallucinating again. Connie, stay here. I don't want to call the hospital again. Do you want me to call the hospital again?
Connie turns her head. Paul grabs her hand and takes the knife away. He holds her by the arm. They struggle, Connie is faces Paul.
CONNIE
Are you going to kill me too? (glares at Paul)
Paul bear hugs Connie up against his chest.
PAUL
Of course not, Connie. (looks her in the eyes) Of course, not. I couldn't hurt anyone. You should know this, Connie. I love you. Remember?
CONNIE
Do you love, Miranda? I saw her letter, Paul? She seems to think you love her. Why does she think this, Paul?
Paul lets go of Connie and frantically searches his pockets in his suit.
The letter isn't there... anymore.
PAUL
Connie, you don't seem well. I think I should call the hospital. You need help. You haven't been sleeping ... again. Right, let me call. Let me help you, Connie ... my love.
CONNIE
(steps backward from Paul) Just like last time, Paul? After Emmaline... (trails off) You told them I wasn't sleeping.
PAUL
You weren't, my love. Don't you remember? You were awake for days on end. I was so worried about you. You were delusional. You were talking about ... how I... hurt our Emmaline. I could never do such a thing, Connie. Remember, you were talking about crazy things. I had to call. I had to ... just like I do ... right now.
CONNIE
They took me away for 6 days, Paul. They locked me away for 6 days ... because you lied... about me. (tearing up) I wasn't allowed to attend Emmaline's funeral because of you.
PAUL
You needed help, Connie. You were hysterical. You needed help.
CONNIE
Help? Did I need help? They tethered me to a bed ... and left me for two days all because you ... lied. (long pause, stares at Paul directly) You lied, Paul. Just like you are right now. I saw the blood. I know what you did and were doing ... to my precious baby. (cries)
PAUL
I need the phone. Where is it? (starts looking around)
CONNIE
Call them, Paul. Go ahead. (pause) This time, I will speak the truth instead of trying to protect my family.
PAUL
Connie. Stop. (pause) You don't know what you are saying. Let's forget all of this and just go to bed. Okay? Let's go to bed. Start all over tomorrow... new day. Okay? (pause) I don't want to have to call the hospital and the police again. Please, Connie, be reasonable. You know they'll believe me... not you. They know ... you have ... difficulties remembering. Right? Connie? You do have difficulties, remembering.
CONNIE
If you say so, Paul. (Pause) Vanessa will have her say too.
PAUL
What?
CONNIE
A leopard never changes its spots. Does it, Paul?
Wide-eyed, Paul steps backward and walks over to the bar, pours another drink.
PAUL
Connie, let's just go to bed. (pause, back turned to her) I have no idea what we are even discussing anymore.
CONNIE
She's a talker, Paul. Emmaline wasn't (pause) but Nessa is... you sick pig.
Paul quickly swallows the drink on one sip. Sits down on the couch.
PAUL
I'm tired, Connie. I'm drunk. (pause) Look... I don't want any problems tonight or any night. Let's just forget all of this and start fresh tomorrow. Okay?
CONNIE
(pulls out the love letter from her pocket, starts reading) Paul, I'm in love with you. In all my wildest dreams, I never thought I would find a kind, caring, loving man like you. Please stay with me, forever.
Paul sighs and looks upward.
PAUL
She's messed up, Connie. (sighs) Don't pay any attention to that, it's nonsense.
CONNIE
Sounds like you're making plans, Paul. (sharp tone) It's bad enough you fuck an idiot twenty-one-year-old ... but an 8- year old too? How sick are you, Paul?
Infuriated, Paul stands up grabs Connie by the throat, pushes her back toward the wall, holding her by her throat. Connie gasps for air, scratching at his hands. When she starts to collapse, he lets her go.
(out of breath) How could you, Paul? How could you? She was 8 years old. She was all I had (loudly) and YOU TOOK HER AWAY! (long pause) YOU ... placed my precious baby into a suitcase... You took her out of our home ... and buried her in the (whispers) cold dirt. How could you?
PAUL
(cold) Connie. You're delusional.
CONNIE
Her head was severed from her body. How could you? (drops to the floor) How could you do that to my Emmaline? You cut her up ... to fit into that suitcase. (stares at Paul) I saw her blood. I saw her blood before you burned the suitcase. (pause) I believed you at first. You told me I was sick and needed help. I wanted to believe you. But now, you are doing this all over again with Nessa... little Nessa.
PAUL
(sharply) Connie, I'm going to bed. You can either come along or sleep here on the floor. I don't care what you do at this moment.
CONNIE
(staring at the floor, starts laughing) Oh, Paul (maniacal laughing) you haven't slept with me ... in what? ... five years. (starts chuckling)
Paul stands up and walks to the door. Turns around and gazes at Connie.
PAUL
Connie ... I would rather sleep with anyone else in the whole world ... over you. (pause) Well, with some exceptions.
Paul leaves, slamming the door. Connie slumps on the floor in tears.
By Tirzah Greene
The House on the Hill
The Day After
ACT 3 â€" Scene 1
CONNIE
PAUL
Connie nervously walks into the kitchen checking to see if Paul came back during the night. Seeing the kitchen is empty, she walks in and makes coffee. After she pours a cup of coffee she sits at the kitchen table lost in thought. After a moment or two, she hears the front door open.
PAUL
(yells out) Connie?
Connie immediately stands up and moves over toward the counter, she grabs a knife from a kitchen block and places it under a dishtowel.
PAUL
Connie! (pause) Connie are you here?
Connie stands still in the kitchen. Paul slowly walks in, sees her, hands her a dozen roses, and places a bowl of freshly picked blueberries on the kitchen table.
PAUL
Connie ... I'm so sorry.
CONNIE
For? Paul.
PAUL
Connie, don't make this more difficult. It's difficult enough as it is.
CONNIE
I just was asking... what are you sorry for? That's all. (pause) You didn't say.
PAUL
I was drunk. (sigh) I don't remember.
CONNIE
You're always drunk, Paul.
PAUL
I know. Ever since, (sigh) ... ever since Emmaline was kidnapped. It's been difficult for both of us.
CONNIE
Both of us?
PAUL
Yes. It's not easy losing your only daughter to a predator. (abruptly stops, stares at the bowl on the table) She loved blueberries. (smiles) She and I would pick them together. (looks at Connie) Did you know this?
CONNIE
No, I didn't.
PAUL
There's a lot you don't know ... Connie. A lot. The times you went to the hospital... we... would have fun together. Oh, Connie, she loved going to the zoo. She would want to see all of the animals. We would spend most of the day watching them. And... she loved to go swimming. We would go to the beach ... and have a picnic ... just the two of us.
CONNIE
I remember you working a lot, Paul. That's what I remember.
PAUL
It wasn't easy for Emmaline and me ... dealing with your ... problems.
CONNIE
My problems?
PAUL
After your last break, the doctors said ...
CONNIE
What did they say, Paul? What did they tell you... and not me?
PAUL
Connie, you were so ... out of control. Everyone was in fear for your safety. The doctors wanted you to live in assisted living housing. (pause) They wanted someone to watch you all the time. To keep you, safe. Remember, after they found Emmaline... you tried to ... (abruptly stops speaking) Well, that's in the past now. Right, Connie?
CONNIE
(slowly places her hand on the kitchen towel) My memories are much different from yours, Paul. Much different.
PAUL
I know ... and they're wrong. You always tell me I'm wrong, but ... your memories are incorrect. Not mine. (pause) The doctors told me you may never be the same woman I married, ever again. (sigh) I do believe they are right in telling me this, Connie. You can't keep blaming me for your actions. It's tiresome... and I can't tolerate it much longer.
CONNIE
How can I be the same, Paul? My daughter was murdered by a cold-blooded killer right under our very own roof. Do you remember, Paul?
PAUL
Connie, let's not go down that road. Okay? (stands up, walks over to her) I brought you flowers... I just want us to move beyond that horrible day. Let the past stay in the past. I'm so sorry, I couldn't stop... (trails off in thought, changes topic) She's gone. You're here. She isn't. I'm here. She isn't. (sigh) We have to work with what we have, Connie. Not what ... we wish we have. I married you. I love you. I want to be with you. Don't push me away. Please, don't.
CONNIE
I have nothing more to say to you, Paul. Because of you, my life ended that day. All that I had... all that I ever loved... was taken from me. You are of no importance to me anymore, as a result.
PAUL
Connie, how can you stand there and say this to me? I not only lost a daughter, but I also lost you.
CONNIE
Isn't this what you wanted? To move on ... start a new life somewhere else?
PAUL
No, that's your way of handling difficult situations. You run away and start over. You ignore the obvious.
CONNIE
The obvious?
PAUL
Do you like your flowers?
CONNIE
Roses are my favorite.
PAUL
Do you love me?
CONNIE
Do I have a choice, Paul?
PAUL
Connie, I know I said horrible things to you last night. I'm sorry. I was drunk.
CONNIE
You're always drunk Paul. I can smell alcohol on your breath right now. You did way more than simply say horrible things to me last night.
PAUL
(shrugs) See, I wish I could believe you but I don't trust anything you say to be true.
CONNIE
So, now I'm lying? I'm crazy and I lie.
PAUL
(turns to grab the bowl) Hey, I picked these to remember Emmaline. She always had them by her bed. (smiles) So, innocent.
CONNIE
(whispers) Innocent? Do you know why ... why ... Emmaline had them by her bedside?
PAUL
I didn't think much about it. She liked blueberries... right?
CONNIE
They were secret berries to keep bad men away. (sharp tone) I guess it didn't work, did it, Paul?
PAUL
(chuckling under his breath) You never give up, do you? (shakes his head) I picked them for you. I wanted to bring you a good memory of Emmaline but you twist and turn stories... making me the villain every time. You hurt me beyond belief, Connie. I can't even express the pain you put me through every day.
CONNIE
I'm certain you will forget all about it this evening after you ... blackout. Remember? It's your nightly ritual, dear.
PAUL
(laughing) I have something else to tell you, I'll be out of town for another business trip week.
CONNIE
Pfft... This is nothing new. You just came back last night from a "so-called" business trip. Why tell me this? You rarely discuss your business with your crazy lying wife. What difference do I make now?
PAUL
You're correct. (smiles) I just wanted you to know (pause) Miranda will be going with me. I'm staying with her for now, until you figure out what you want, Connie. I hope you make the right choice, Connie. I do. To think, I thought you were going to be reasonable. (shakes his head) Flowers... blueberries. (puts his face into hers, she clasps the kitchen towel again) All for you. What do I get?
Paul walks out the door and out of the house.
By Tirzah Greene
The House on the Hill
Monday Morning
ACT 3 â€" Scene 2
CONNIE
POLICE OFFICER 1
POLICE OFFICER 2
NESSA
Connie is doing dishes in the kitchen. She hears loud sirens outside. She watches the commotion at Miranda's house through her window.
CONNIE
What on earth is going on over there? (She stands watching out of her kitchen window)
Oh dear... police officers. (watching) Ambulance... oh no. (pause, whispers) Paul.
There is a knock at the door. Connie opens the door finding a police officer standing in the doorway.
POLICE OFFICER
May I come in, ma'am? I would like to ask you some questions.
CONNIE
Regarding?
POLICE OFFICER
Your neighbor. (looks at his notepad) Ma'am, did you know ... Miranda Ellis?
Connie opens the door and allows the Police Officer into the house.
CONNIE
Not very well. I had spoken to her a few times ... here and there.
POLICE OFFICER
What can you tell me about her friends? Or people coming and going from her residence?
CONNIE
Oh, ahh ... not much. I know she had friends coming and going quite a lot ... but they never caused a problem for me.
POLICE OFFICER
Were they different people? Or the same ones?
CONNIE
I don't know. However, from what I vaguely remember is they seemed to be different people all of the time. (pause) You would have to ask my husband, he would often help Miranda around the house.
POLICE OFFICER
(leans in, eagerly listening) How so, Ma'am?
CONNIE
Oh, heaven's.... well, he... oh ... fixed her car once. Umm... I think he was trying to give her a job within his office. He would talk about going on business trips with her. I'm not certain of this however, he rarely discusses work with me.
POLICE OFFICER
What type of work does your husband do?
CONNIE
He's in business... I don't know the exact details of his job. As I said, he doesn't speak much about his work with me.
POLICE OFFICER
Have you spoken to him lately?
CONNIE
Oh, no. Umm, he ... is on ... a business trip. He said he would be gone for a while. (pause) That's all I know.
POLICE OFFICER
When was the last time you saw him?
CONNIE
A couple of days ago. We argued.
POLICE OFFICER
What about?
CONNIE
(surprised at the questioning) His ... drinking. Did he do ... something ... officer?
POLICE OFFICER
We need to speak to him. We found his wallet next door on the floor in a bedroom.
Connie looks surprised and shakes her head in astonishment.
Does your husband do drugs, Ma'am?
CONNIE
No! Not to my knowledge, officer.
POLICE OFFICER
But he drinks?
CONNIE
Yes, it's often a point of disagreement between the two of us.
POLICE OFFICER
How much does he drink?
CONNIE
I don't know. I try to stay away from him while he is drinking. He ... (stops, looks at the officer) He drinks heavily... gin is his go-to. He can drink two or more bottles a night. He can drink to the point of not knowing what he is doing or saying (pause) which is why I stay away from him.
POLICE OFFICER
Has he ever hurt you physically?
Another police officer comes to the door.
2nd POLICE OFFICER
Sir, we found him. You should come with me... (pause, sharp tone) Now, Sir.
POLICE OFFICER
(turns and looks at Connie) Thank you, ma'am. We might be back to ask you some more questions.
CONNIE
I guess so. (pause) What happened next door? Is it serious?
The police officer walks toward the door, stops next to the second police officer.
POLICE OFFICER
I'm not at liberty to say. Thank you for your time, ma'am. Good Night.
Both Police Officers leave. Connie continues to watch outside the kitchen window. A look of horror overcomes Connie as she watches intently. She steps away from the window.
CONNIE
(slumps in a kitchen chair) Body bags. (long pause) Two ... body bags.
There is a knock on the door. Connie is reluctant to answer the door. She opens the door to find Nessa standing there.
CONNIE
(excited) NESSA! Are you okay?
NESSA
Yes. I think so.
CONNIE
Oh, my heaven's ... come in.
NESSA
(tears flowing down her face) I can't find my mom.
CONNIE
What do you mean, you can't find your mom? Did she go somewhere?
NESSA
She was sleeping in her room ... now she isn't there. I've looked all over. I can't find her.
CONNIE
(loud sigh) Oh, Nessa. (Connie looks out the window and sees the commotion next door still going on) There are police officers at your house. Do you know about this?
NESSA
I was hiding with Bob in my closet when they came. (looks at Connie) I did what you said to do. I did.
CONNIE
What did I say to do?
NESSA
... eat the blueberries. (pause) I took some from your garden yesterday. I had a huge bowl full of them.
CONNIE
Oh, you poor dear... you must have been so frightened.
NESSA
My mom was yelling at ... umm ... someone.
CONNIE
Paul? Was the person Paul, Nessa? (pause) You can tell me. I won't get mad if it was.
NESSA
It sounded like ... Puh ... Paul. But I don't know, he didn't come to my room. I couldn't see from my closet.
CONNIE
Oh, dear god.
NESSA
Connie, the blueberries helped. You were right. I ate all of them and didn't feel scared anymore.
CONNIE
I'm happy to hear this Nessa. I'm happy you are here with me. (she looks out the window again) Nessa the police officers are still at your house. I think they will want to speak with you and possibly myself when they are done.
NESSA
No! They are bad.
CONNIE
No, Vanessa... no. I already spoke with one officer. He simply asked me questions. Okay? He said he will come back to ask some more. You can stay here until he comes back, Okay? Are you hungry? Do you want something to eat?
NESSA
Okay.
CONNIE
Here, sit down at the table. Now, what would you like to eat?
NESSA
(tears flowing down her cheeks) I don't know.
CONNIE
Don't worry. We'll figure it out, together.
NESSA
Something bad happened, didn't it?
CONNIE
I don't know. The police officer wouldn't say. (pause) Don't worry, right now. Let's have something to eat and drink and wait for the officer. In the meantime, we won't worry until he comes to ask questions. Okay?
NESSA
Okay.
Connie stands up and starts preparing food, while Nessa sits at the kitchen table.
By Tirzah Greene
The House on the Hill
Nowhere Fast
ACT 3 â€" Scene 3
CONNIE
NESSA
MIRANDA
POLICE OFFICER
EMMALINE
Connie stands at the door, deep in a discussion with a Police Officer. She is obviously in disbelief regarding the discussion.
POLICE OFFICER
I'm sorry ma'am. That's all we know at the moment. We will keep you posted.
The Police Officer hands her a paper and leaves. She closes the door, lost in thought, and sits down.
CONNIE
I can't believe this. Both?
NESSA
(anxious) My mom?
CONNIE
(still lost in thought, half-listening) Oh, ah... he didn't say. (pause) I don't know.
NESSA
Did they find my mom?
CONNIE
He didn't say ... Nessa. (worried) I don't know what happened to your mom.
NESSA
Did something happen to my mom?
CONNIE
Hmm?? Ah, no, ... no, nothing happened. (pause) I don't ... know. Maybe... something happened?
NESSA
I couldn't find her. (starts crying)
CONNIE
Perhaps, she left. Went on a trip ... with ... Paul.
NESSA
Maybe. (shrugs)
CONNIE
What if she never comes back? I wonder what will happen then?
NESSA
(tears streaming down her face) What? What do you mean?
CONNIE
I'm so confused right now. I don't know what I'm saying ... I just can't believe ... all of this.
NESSA/MIRANDA
I know. It's scary. Isn't it? (pause) One minute you have a life you are living and the next... it all changes in the blink of an eye.
Police Officer knocks at the door. Connie answers the door.
CONNIE
Oh ... is there any more news? Can you tell me anything more?
POLICE OFFICER
I'm officer Matthews. I'm with the DEA, may I come in?
CONNIE
Yes, of course. Please do come in. (pause) DEA?
Officer Matthews steps inside.
POLICE OFFICER
Narcotics ma'am. (pause) Oh good, You're both here. I've been looking for you. (turns to Connie, standing at the door) Ma'am, it seems as though it was poisoning. We are still looking for leads but drugs are the main suspect at this point. (smiles) Although, there was a bowl ...
CONNIE
A bowl?
POLICE OFFICER
Heroin was found ... and ah, berries.
CONNIE
Heroin? Berries? (long pause) Do you mean blueberries?
POLICE OFFICER
I see you have a garden out here ma'am.
CONNIE
Yes. I have been working on it all spring and summer. (pause) I grow fruits and vegetables.
POLICE OFFICER
What do you grow specifically, ma'am?
CONNIE
Not heroin ... if that is what you are implying. I'm not understanding what this has to do with anything.
POLICE OFFICER
Ma'am, I'm just asking questions. No worries. I'm a gardener myself... what do you like to grow in your garden? I like to grow corn and pumpkins. My kids love them both. Can't get enough of sweet corn ... all summer. Do you grow corn, ma'am?
CONNIE
No, I don't. I like flowers. I mostly grow flowers. This year, we grew some vegetables ... let's see ... I planted tomatoes, green beans, and carrots.
POLICE OFFICER
We?
CONNIE
Yes, umm.... Nessa, the neighbor girl, and I ... planted the garden together.
POLICE OFFICER
I often have my kids help me too. They are great for weeding! I tell ya. What else did you plant?
CONNIE
Oh, well ... uh... fruits. Berries. Strawberries and blueberries. They are Nessa's favorite.
POLICE OFFICER
Were any fruits here when you moved in? or did you plant all of the plants yourself?
CONNIE
Oh no officer, there wasn't a garden when we moved in a few years ago. This was the first year, I was able to plant a garden. Nessa and I tilled and planned what to plant. We bought the plants from the local greenery. (pause) Except for...
POLICE OFFICER
You didn't plant all of the plants in the garden?
CONNIE
Actually, no. Paul planted the blueberry bushes toward the back. However, Nessa and I planned to do that ourselves ... he did it ... for us. I suppose.
POLICE OFFICER
Okay. Do you happen to know what kind of blueberries they are by any chance? I can only get certain ones to grow in this region. Yours grew well given all the rain we had this season.
CONNIE
Goodness... (looks around, thinking) I don't. Paul... would...
POLICE OFFICER
That's all right ma'am. I can figure it out myself. Does your husband have a drug history?
CONNIE
The other officer asked me this too... no. He never has done drugs ever.
POLICE OFFICER
... that you know of. Correct?
CONNIE
I've only ever seen him drink. That's all I can say.
POLICE OFFICER
Okay. Thank you. If we need anything else, ma'am. I know where you are. (turns toward the other room) You (points) come with me. (officer steps outside the door and waits)
Miranda stands up from the other room offstage, walks toward Connie, stops in front of her with tears streaming down her face.
MIRANDA
He was talking to me about those dumb plants too... something about Bella. I don't even know who that is.
CONNIE
(stares at Miranda, shocked to see her) Miranda? (confused) Bella?
MIRANDA
Yeah, I guess they think Paul gave her berries or something... poisonous anyway, which is ridiculous. He was doing speedballs.
CONNIE
What? (pause) What are you talking about?
MIRANDA
Paul. He was doing drugs. (pause) He didn't feed her anything ... He could never do such a thing. She probably got into my purse ... and got into my stash.
POLICE OFFICER
Ma'am. Come with me, please.
MIRANDA
Connie, I have to go.
CONNIE
(sigh) Goodbye... Miranda.
Miranda walks out and leaves with the Police Officer. Connie sits down in the living room, lost in her thoughts.
CONNIE
Paul? ... Miranda? (long pause, excitedly) NESSA! (She stands up, yells). Emmaline? Where are you?
Steps into view.
EMMALINE
I'm right here, mamma.
CONNIE
Oh, my precious girl! There you are. I've missed you. (gives Emmaline a big hug, kneels) I have someone for you to meet.
EMMALINE
Who Mamma?
CONNIE
A new friend, Emmaline. (pause) A new friend ... for you.
EMMALINE
Really?
Stands up, yells.
CONNIE
Nessa! Where are you?
Nessa steps out of the kitchen.
NESSA
Umm... I'm ... right here.
CONNIE
Nessa! My dear sweet Nessa. There you are, my dear. Come over here! I have someone for you to meet. (she stands behind Emmaline with her hands on both shoulders) Come you're your new friend Emmaline a big hug!
Nessa walks over and happily, hugs Emmaline.
CONNIE
My two girls. You are both so pretty. Best friends forever, I just know it. (smiling) We are all together now.
|
You've read it - now go back to FanStory.com to comment on each chapter and show your thanks to the author! |
| © Copyright 2015 Tirzah Greene All rights reserved. Tirzah Greene has granted FanStory.com, its affiliates and its syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work. |
© 2015 FanStory.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Terms under which this service is provided to you. Privacy Statement