Win Win_2011

EXT. WATCHUNG RESERVATION - DAWN.
    It 's a bitter cold January morning . The woods are quiet . Desolate . In the far off distance a man is jogging . He banks around the end of a small pond and runs right at us . This is MIKE FLAHERTY , FORTY - TWO . He is running hard . Or at least as hard as he can . Suddenly TWO JOGGERS blow past him .

INT. HOUSE, BEDROOM - SAME.
    A HOME MADE STAIN GLASS ANGEL hangs on a window . It falls to the ground . ABBY FLAHERTY , SIX - YEARS OLD , stirs and gets out of her bed out . She picks up the Bird and inspects it . It 's broken .
    ABBY
    Shit.

INT. HOUSE, BEDROOM - LATER.
    JACKIE FLAHERTY , THIRTY - SEVEN is still sleeping . Abby walks into the room . Jackie opens her eyes .
    ABBY
    ( WHISPERS . )
    Mommy, can we play croquet today?
    Jackie lifts Abby onto the bed .
    ABBY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Where's Daddy?
    JACKIE
    He's running.
    ABBY
    From what?
    Jackie smiles .

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, BEDROOM - LATER.
    STELLA , TWO YEARS OLD is standing up in her crib crying . Mike comes in and picks her up .
    MIKE
    OK. OK. Hi there.

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, KITCHEN - LATER.
    Jackie prepares some food . She knocks a glass over into the sink and it breaks .
    JACKIE
    Shit.
    She looks over at Abby who is immersed in her coloring . Then she sets the food down in front of Stella who is sitting in a high chair . Mike enters wearing a suit and tie .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    How was the run?
    MIKE JACKIE

    Good . It was good . Abby , finish your cereal .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    ( TO MIKE . )
    I'm very impressed with you keeping it up.
    Mike shrugs and takes a yogurt from the refrigerator .
    ABBY
    I do n't like it.
    JACKIE
    You do too, so stop drawing and eat.
    MIKE ABBY

    What brand is this ? Daddy , look . It 's your team .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    They're all the same.
    Mike looks at the drawing . It looks nothing like a team .
    MIKE
    That's my team? That's great, honey. Are they winning?
    ABBY
    Yeah.
    JACKIE
    Maybe you should show the team.
    Abby knocks over a glass of water . It spills onto the drawing .
    ABBY
    Shit.
    JACKIE
    Honey, you ca n't use that word. It's a bad word.
    Off Mike 's look .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    What? Do n't look at me.
    MIKE
    Uh huh. Bye sweetie.
    He kisses Abby .
    ABBY MIKE

    Bye daddy . Bye .
    JACKIE
    Hey. You OK?
    MIKE
    Yeah.
    JACKIE
    You sure?
    MIKE
    Yeah. I'm good. Why?
    JACKIE
    Just checking.
    MIKE
    OK. Bye guy's.
    ABBY
    Can I have more juice?
    Mike leaves . Jackie is not convinced .
    JACKIE
    Just a minute.

EXT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE - LATER.
    Mike walks outside toward his car . He opens the car door .
    JACKIE
    Mike?
    Mike turns . Jackie is standing at the door .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Did you call Fenn about the tree?
    PAUL
    No. I will today.
    JACKIE
    Please do. I do n't want it coming down on the house.
    Mike looks at a VERY DEAD TREE in the side yard .
    MIKE
    Yeah. You're right. I will.
    JACKIE
    Mike?
    MIKE
    Yeah?
    JACKIE
    I love you.
    MIKE
    I love you too, sweetie. Bye.
    Jackie shuts the door . Mike looks up at the tree .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Shit.

INT. DUNKIN' DONUTS - LATER.
    Mike pays for his coffee and bagel and starts to leave . He nods to a group of FIVE OLD MEN who wave him over . He tries to keep moving but they continue to engage him . Finally he joins the table . The group shares a laugh .

EXT. MIKE'S OFFICE - LATER.
    Mike 's car pulls into a driveway of an OLD HOUSE that has been converted into TWO OFFICES . A SIGN on the lawn reads : `` MICHAEL S. FLAHERTY , COUNSELOR AT LAW '' and `` STEPHEN VIGMAN , CPA ''

EXT. MIKE'S OFFICE, PARKING LOT - CONTINUOUS.
    Mike parks his car as a WORKMAN walks up from the basement of the house and gets into his VAN and pulls away . Mike gets out of his car and walks toward the back door carrying his briefcase . He stops at the basement steps .
    MIKE
    Vig?
    VOICE
    Down here.
    Mike walks down the stairs .

INT. MIKE'S OFFICE, BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS.
    It 's an old , musty basement filled with endless shelves of files .
    MIKE
    What's up, Vig?
    VIGMAN
    Donna's out sick and ca n't find anything without her. It sucks.
    STEPHEN VIGMAN , FIFTY , emerges carrying some files .
    MIKE
    Who was that guy?
    VIGMAN
    Oh, that sucks more. He's the plumber. I called him to look at that piece of crap of boiler.
    Vigman points to an ANCIENT HOT WATER BOILER .
    MIKE
    Why?
    VIGMAN
    That clanking is driving me nuts. Ca n't you hear it down in your office?
    MIKE
    Yeah. I just figured it's old.
    VIGMAN
    Well it is but he took one look at it and said we should replace it before it blows.
    MIKE
    What?! We just had it fixed three months ago.
    VIGMAN
    Yeah, he said that job was crap. The guy did crap work. Can you believe that? That little scumbag!
    MIKE VIGMAN

    Jesus . All they care about is getting paid . Makes me sick . No one wants to do the work anymore .
    MIKE
    How much to fix it, Vig? Did he say?
    VIGMAN
    Six grand to replace everything.
    MIKE
    Holy shit.
    VIGMAN
    Tell me about it. I got ta be honest, Mike, it's not a good time for me. My business is off and my step son wants to get Lasik.
    MIKE
    Really? Is n't he too young?
    VIGMAN
    I do n't really care at this point. If it makes him happy, he can have it. I get nothing from that kid. Nothing. He has an unnatural attachment to his father.
    MIKE
    Right. So what do you want to do?
    VIGMAN
    Well I was thinking we could leave it for now and just cover the file cabinets in plastic to be safe. How about you?
    MIKE
    Yeah. I guess I'm good with that.
    CLANK . CLANK . CLANK . The boiler barks . They both jump .
    VIGMAN
    Let's get out of here before it blows. I'll pick some up plastic before practice.
    They both hurry back up the stairs .

INT. MIKE'S OFFICE - LATER
    Mike walks into his office . SHELLY , the receptionist , is at her computer working . She 's mid - 20s and pure Jersey .
    MIKE
    Hey Shelly, How you doing?
    SHELLY
    I'm a little hung over and my boyfriend's a moron.
    MIKE
    Oh. Sorry to hear that.
    SHELLY
    How'd the team do last night?
    MIKE
    We lost.
    SHELLY
    Bummer. Your noon canceled so you just have a 10:30 and 3pm.
    MIKE
    OK. Anything else?
    SHELLY
    The toilet is n't flushing again. Should I just call someone this time?
    MIKE
    No. I'll take a look at it. Who do I have at ten - thirty?
    SHELLY
    ( APOLOGETICALLY . )
    Frank.
    MIKE
    Great.

INT. MIKE'S OFFICE - LATER.
    Mike is sitting with FRANK , an elderly man , jotting notes .
    MIKE
    And you think your son stole it?
    FRANK
    Yeah. I know he did.
    MIKE
    Why would he steal your cat, Frank?
    FRANK
    He's jealous of her. Very jealous.

INT. MIKE'S OFFICE - LATER
    Mike is on his phone as he cleans his keyboard .
    MIKE
    I understand but that's my fee for that particular service. Uh huh. Right. Well maybe I can adjust that a little bit.

INT. MIKE'S OFFICE - LATER
    Mike is eating lunch at his desk . He hears a noise and looks out the back window and see 's Vigman pulling a LARGE ROLL OF PLASTIC TARP out of the trunk of his car .

INT. MIKE'S OFFICE, BATHROOM - LATER
    Mike , on his knees , plunges the broken toilet .

INT. MIKE'S OFFICE - LATER
    Mike is sitting with LEO POPLAR , 82 and his HOME HEALTH AID , JOLIE , FORTY - FIVE and AFRICAN AMERICAN .
    MIKE
    Well Leo, remember you got lost and the police had to help you a few times. That's why we brought Jolie into help you, right?
    LEO
    So now what happens?
    MIKE
    Well if that Judge deems you incapacitated then you will need a guardian. And if we ca n't find your daughter then the state.
    LEO
    She ca n't find herself.
    MIKE
    OK but if we ca n't find her then the State will have to become your guardian.
    LEO
    Who's the state?
    MIKE
    You know. the state. of New Jersey.
    LEO
    That's crazy. I do n't need New Jersey's help. I got Jolie now. And there's no funny business between us so you know.
    MIKE
    Right. I'm sure there's not. Let's just first see if we can find your daughter and then we'll go from there.

INT. SHELLY'S OFFICE.
    SHELLY flips through some DOCUMENTS . The boiler sounds off . CLANK CLANK CLANK . She jumps . She picks up the documents and walks into Mike 's office setting the documents down .
    SHELLY
    Am I still hung over or is that noise getting louder?
    MIKE
    You're probably still hung over. What's that?
    SHELLY
    Leo's financial statements. He's loaded, huh?
    MIKE
    Yes, he is. You find his daughter?
    SHELLY
    No. That lady is gone and does n't want to be found.
    MIKE
    Crap.
    Mike takes the STATEMENTS and puts them in LEO 'S FILE .
    SHELLY
    Ca n't the state just leave him in his home? That's what the guy wants.
    MIKE
    They could but they never will. It's too much work. They'll probably move him into Oak Knoll. Hand me one of their brochures?
    Shelly grabs an OAK KNOLL BROCHURE from a stack .
    SHELLY
    But he has Jolie now. She can handle it.
    MIKE
    No, she ca n't. His guardian still has to make every single decision. It's the difference between a baby sitter and a parent.
    She hands it to Mike who takes it and paper clips in on the inside of Leo 's file .
    SHELLY
    I wish I could do it. I could use an extra 1,500 bucks a month.
    MIKE
    $ 1,500. Is that what it is?
    SHELLY
    Yeah. It's in his file.
    ( Answering the phone . )
    Mike Flaherty's office.
    Mike opens Leo 's file .

INT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGHSCHOOL GYM, THE PIT - LATER.
    Mike and Vigman are coaching wrestling practice at the public highschool . They are in the small , dingy back gym just off the main gymnasium . This is a no - frills program . The team of 12 WRESTLERS are doing a spinning drill . Vigman holds up a singlet .
    VIGMAN
    Whose singlet is this? What did I say about leaving them around?
    A WRESTLER runs over and Vig flings it at him .

EXT. WATCHUNG RESERVATION - EARLY MORNING.
    Mike and TERRY DELFINO are running . Terry is the same age as Mike but dressed in a better gear . They are both breathing hard .
    TERRY
    How's the team doing?
    MIKE
    Not good.
    TERRY
    What the hell happened? We used to be good.
    MIKE
    Yeah, well we're not anymore.
    TERRY
    Can we walk for a bit?
    MIKE
    Yeah.
    They both stop . Terry is completely winded .
    TERRY
    That sucked. You're running good, buddy. Kicking my ass.
    Terry 's blackberry beeps . He takes it out and reads it .
    MIKE
    Yeah. I've been getting out here a bit more often.
    TERRY
    You got ta be kidding me.
    MIKE
    What?
    TERRY
    Lori's texting me at seven in the morning to ask me if I want an antique sewing table that we bought together.
    MIKE
    Do you?
    TERRY
    No. I want my fucking house back!
    MIKE
    Is she still with that guy?
    TERRY
    You mean my contractor? The guy I hired? Yeah, she is. I can just picture that little scumbag walking around my house wearing his tool belt. Here.
    He hands Mike his blackberry .
    TERRY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Take a picture for me.
    Terry pulls down his pants and moons Mike .
    TERRY MIKE

    Take it ! Jesus , Ter !
    TERRY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Hurry! It's cold.
    Mike takes the picture . Terry takes the blackberry back .
    MIKE
    Do n't send it.
    TERRY
    Too late. I hate her.
    They start to walk .
    MIKE
    Maybe you should move back into the city? Get a new job. Shake it up a bit.
    TERRY
    Nah. Finley called me. He's starting up a new fund out here in May so I'm gon na wait for that.
    MIKE
    That guy's starting another fund?
    TERRY
    Yeah. He's an animal. He prints money. Come on, let's finish strong.
    Terry starts to run . Mike follows . After about thirty feet , Mike pulls up . He 's breathing is labored .
    MIKE
    Hold up!
    TERRY
    What?
    MIKE
    Just. hold up.
    Mike is really breathing hard now . He 's making some funny noises .
    TERRY
    You alright?
    Mike just holds up a hand . He ca n't really speak . TERRY . -LRB- CONT'D. -RRB- MIKE Mike , what the fuck ? What 's -LRB- Barely audible -RRB- wrong ? Yeah . Fine . I just . He drops to a knee . He 's not alright .
    TERRY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Holy fuck! Mike? Hang on pal.
    Terry takes out his black berry but immediately fumbles it into the wet mud .
    TERRY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Fuck! Fuck!
    He grabs it and shakes it out but it 's dead .
    TERRY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    You got ta be kidding me. Shit.
    Mike is still wheezing . Terry turns his attention .
    TERRY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Is it your heart, buddy? Are you having a heart attack?
    MIKE
    No! I'm not having a heart attack! I just. ca n't breathe.
    TERRY
    That could be a heart attack, Mike. You should lie down.
    Terry tries to help him but it 's only seems to annoy Mike .
    MIKE TERRY

    Get off me ! Just lie down .
    MIKE
    No! It's wet. I do n't want to lie down.
    TERRY
    Who cares? You might be dying. Are you cold? Do you feel cold?
    MIKE
    Yeah. I'm lying on the ground.
    TERRY
    Look into my eyes, Mike. Look into my eyes.
    They are now engaged in a weird wrestling match . WOMAN . -LRB- O.S . -RRB- Are you alright ? Terry looks to see TWO FORTY YEAR OLD WOMEN in jogging gear staring at them .

EXT. PARKING LOT - LATER
    An ambulance pulls away revealing Mike and Terry sitting in the open back of Terry 's LEXUS SUV .
    TERRY
    OK dude, how long has that been happening?
    MIKE
    Couple of months. The doctor says it's stress.
    TERRY
    Seriously? Did he prescribe anything for you?
    MIKE
    Yeah. Jogging. Why the hell you think I'm doing this?
    TERRY
    Jesus. That scared the shit out of me. What are you so stressed about, Mike?
    MIKE
    ( SHEEPISH . )
    I do n't know. Work. Money. Everything.
    TERRY
    Is it that bad?
    MIKE
    Yeah. It is. I do n't know how much longer I can keep my practice going.
    TERRY
    Really? Holy shit, Mike! What're you gon na do?
    MIKE
    I have no frickin' idea. I've been trying everything.
    TERRY
    Have you told Jackie?
    MIKE
    Not yet. I do n't want to freak her out.
    TERRY
    Good call. So we just need a new strategy, that's all. What about that Judge that's always throwing work your way? Ca n't she help you out?
    MIKE
    Judge Lee, yeah. If it was n't for her I'd probably be out of business already. I just need more.
    TERRY
    Is there anything else you can do for money?
    MIKE
    What the hell am I gon na do? Bartend? I'm a lawyer, Ter. I practice law. MIKE.
    ( CONT'D. ) TERRY

    And it 's not like I 'm some I know . scumbag . I help old people for Christ sake . No offense but your pal , Finley does n't give a crap about anything but making money .
    TERRY
    Yeah. But that's why he makes it.
    MIKE
    No shit, Ter. Thanks for the update.

INT. MIKE'S OFFICE - NIGHT
    The office is dark aside from Mike 's desk light . Shelly is gone . Mike 's blackberry rings .
    MIKE
    Hi, honey. I'm still at the office. Yeah. I came back after practice, I'll be home in a bit.
    ( Checking his blackberry . )
    Oh, hey, let me go, Jack. I've been waiting for this call. Bye.
    Mike hangs up the phone and answers his blackberry .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Hey Tom. Thanks for getting back to me. I'm good. I'm good. Yeah, I was just following up to see if you had any overflow. It's been a slow month on this end and I was.
    Mike listens . The news from Dunleavy is n't good .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Oh. OK. No, yeah of course. I appreciate that. Thanks, Tom. Bye.
    Mike hangs up the phone and sits at his desk . After a moment , he slams his hand on the desk . And then something catches his eye . It 's LEO POPLAR 'S FILE . He opens the file and see 's the PAMPHLET FOR OAK KNOLL . He flips through the file and lands on a particular page and a particular line item . Monthly Commission : $ 1,508.00 .

EXT. UNION COUNTY COURT HOUSE - DAY
    Mike walks with Leo Poplar up the steps of the courthouse .

INT. UNION COUNTY COURT HOUSE, SECURITY DESK - LATER.
    Leo walks through the metal detector . Mike watches him and then walks through himself but something beeps . The guards stops Mike . Leo starts to wander away .
    MIKE
    Hey, Leo. Leo hold on!
    ( to the Guard . )
    Can you stop him, please?

INT. UNION COUNTY COURT HOUSE, COURTROOM - LATER.
    It 's a very drab , no frills courtroom . JUDGE LEE is seated on the bench looking over some documents . Mike is sitting next Leo . Seated at the next table is STU THATCHER , ATTORNEY FOR THE OFFICE OF PUBLIC GUARDIAN . Mike is tapping his pen .
    JUDGE LEE
    Any word from his daughter? Mr. Flaherty?
    MIKE
    Oh. no, Your Honor. I have the two certified letters returned unclaimed. And there is no phone number for her. We ca n't find her.
    JUDGE LEE
    And she is the only living family, is that correct?
    MIKE
    Yes, your Honor, she is. But Mr. Poplar has n't seen her for over twenty years.
    LEO
    Who?
    MIKE
    Your daughter.
    LEO
    She's late? She's probably at the store buying some crap or something.
    MIKE
    OK.
    Mike turns back to the Judge and shrugs .
    JUDGE LEE
    OK, then as, Mr. Poplar has been deemed incapacitated by this court, I'm appointing the Office of Public Guardian to serve as the guardian for his person and property. Do you have the order for me to sign, Mr. Thatcher?
    THATCHER
    Yes, I do, Your Honor.
    JUDGE LEE
    Then please approach.
    Thatcher stands and takes out the order . Mike 's wheels are spinning . He seizes his moment .
    MIKE
    Your Honor, if it pleases the Court.
    JUDGE LEE
    Yes, Mr. Flaherty?
    MIKE
    I would be willing to serve as Mr. Poplar's guardian.
    THATCHER
    ( Stopping . )
    Really?
    MIKE
    Yeah.
    THATCHER
    How long have you known him? Two weeks?
    Mike is suddenly put on the spot .
    MIKE
    More like five.
    THATCHER
    Really? And now you want to be his guardian?
    Mike looks at Leo and the Judge .
    MIKE
    May I approach, your honor?
    JUDGE LEE
    Council approach.
    Mike collects himself and approaches . JUDGE LEE . -LRB- CONT'D. -RRB- What 's going on Mike ?
    MIKE
    Well Judge, I think I'd be a better candidate then the state in this case.
    THATCHER
    Really?
    MIKE
    Yeah, and stop saying really, it's annoying.
    THE STENOGRAPHER raises in eyebrow . MIKE . -LRB- CONT'D. -RRB- THATCHER Your Honor , I live in the Proximity hardly qualifies same town as Mr. Poplar . him as a guardian , Your Honor .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    And, as his lawyer, I feel like I'm in a better position to execute what my client wants.
    THATCHER
    Your Honor, Mr. Flaherty is Mr. Poplar's court appointed attorney.
    JUDGE LEE
    I know, Stu, I appointed him.
    THATCHER
    Yeah, well that hardly qualifies him to be Leo's Guardian. What's the motivation here?
    Thatcher is turning up the heat . He obviously wants Poplar . Mike is starting to feel it .
    JUDGE LEE
    Mike?
    Mike looks back at Leo who is trying to unscrew the cap on his water bottle , completely uninterested in the proceedings . He makes a decision .
    MIKE
    Your Honor, Leo told me he wants to live at home. He has the money to do that and I want to make sure that happens. If the State can do that then fine.
    THATCHER
    Counsel knows we ca n't do that, your Honor. We're spread too thin for that kind of individual attention. But they have an excellent elder care facility in Mr. Poplar's town. We'll put him there.
    MIKE
    Mr. Poplar wants to live at home.
    JUDGE MALONE
    ( TO MIKE . )
    You can do that, Mike?
    MIKE
    Yes, I can.
    ( TO THATCHER . )
    Really.
    Leo is putting papers in his briefcase . Mike sits down next to him .
    LEO
    Did we win?
    MIKE
    Yeah. I think so.
    LEO
    Good.

EXT. LEO POPLAR'S HOUSE - DAY.
    Mike walks toward his car carrying AN OLD TV SET . He puts it into the back of his car which is packed with ITEMS from Leo 's house .

INT. MIKE'S CAR - LATER.
    Mike and Leo are driving .
    LEO
    Are we going to the park?
    MIKE
    No. We're not, Leo. I'm gon na help you get settled into a new place to live right here in town.
    LEO
    I do n't need a new place. I have a house. I'm not fancy that way.
    MIKE
    I know. But I need you to stay in this new place for a while. It's nice. You'll like it.
    LEO
    Is that what the judge said?
    MIKE
    Yeah, that's what he said.
    Leo considers the news and looks out the window .
    LEO
    Ah shit.

EXT. OAK KNOLL SENIOR LIVING - DAY.
    Mike and Leo arrive at Oak Knoll .

INT. OAK KNOLL SENIOR LIVING, PRIVATE ROOM - LATER.
    It is a nice place . Mike sits on a small couch filling out paperwork as a FEMALE STAFF MEMBER helps to prepare Leo 's room .

EXT. QUICK CHECK - DUSK.
    Mike pulls up and walks into the Convenience Store . He buys cigarettes and walks outside . He walks outside , around the corner and then behind the store . He lights a cigarette and then throws the pack into the dumpster . He stands there smoking .

INT. OUR LADY OF PEACE CHURCH- MORNING.
    AN ENORMOUS CRUCIFIX hangs over the alter . A COLLECTION BASKET is passed from person to person . Abby deposits TWO DOLLARS into the basket and looks up at Mike . He smiles .

EXT. OUR LADY OF PEACE CHURCH - LATER.
    Jackie and Stella are waiting in the parking lot . Mike is lagging behind carrying Abby and chatting with some OLDER PARISHIONER 'S . He 's charming and he 's working it . He finally catches up with Jackie and they walk toward the car .
    JACKIE
    Let's go, Mr. Mayor. It's cold and I need to pick up some bagels for your mom's.
    MIKE
    OK. OK. I just have to make one stop first.
    JACKIE
    Where?
    MIKE
    I have to swing by a client's house and shut off the water.
    JACKIE
    Why?
    MIKE
    Because it's freezing and I do n't want his pipes to burst.
    JACKIE
    No, I mean why are you doing it?
    MIKE
    ( CASUALLY . )
    What? Oh, because I'm his guardian.
    JACKIE
    What? Since when?
    MIKE ABBY

    Just last week . Mommy , I want a bagel .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    That's a big deal, Mike. Were you even gon na tell me?
    MIKE JACKIE

    It 's not a big deal . And yes , It is too . I was gon na tell you .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    You do n't have time to be taking care of some old man.
    MIKE
    Jack, he's in Oak Knoll. They do everything. I just have to check in on him from time to time.
    JACKIE
    And who pays for that?
    MIKE
    He does. It comes out of his estate and he can afford it. Trust me.
    JACKIE
    I do n't get it. You've never done it before.
    MIKE
    No I have n't.
    JACKIE
    So why are you doing it now?
    MIKE
    It's just. the right thing to do, alright. We could n't find his daughter and I'm just trying to help the guy. It's really not a big deal.
    JACKIE
    Well, it sounds like a big deal. And you should have told me.
    ABBY
    What's a big deal?
    JACKIE
    Ask your daddy, sweetie. Maybe he'll tell you.
    ABBY
    Daddy, what's a big deal?

INT. MIKE'S CAR - LATER
    Mike pulls up to Leo 's house . It 's a small house in a working class section of town . A TEENAGER is sitting on the front stoop .
    JACKIE
    Is that his house?
    MIKE
    Yeah.
    JACKIE
    ( Re : the Young Man . )
    Who's that?
    MIKE
    No idea.
    Mike gets out of the car .

EXT. LEO POPLAR'S HOUSE - LATER
    Mike walks up the front walk . The YOUNG MAN is listening to his Ipod and smoking a cigarette . Mike approaches and waves . The YOUNG MAN removes his headphones . He has a BRUISE on his left eye .
    MIKE
    How you doing? Can I help you?
    YOUNG MAN
    No.
    MIKE
    Are you looking for Mr. Poplar?
    YOUNG MAN
    Yeah.
    MIKE
    Well, he does n't live here anymore.
    YOUNG MAN
    Where does he live?
    MIKE
    You mind telling me why you're looking for him first?
    The Young Man sizes Mike up . Then .
    YOUNG MAN
    He's my Grandfather. I came to live with him.
    Mike is momentarily stunned by the news . Then he looks back at the car where Jackie gives him a `` What 's going on ? '' look . Uh oh .

INT. MIKE'S CAR - LATER
    Mike is driving . The Young Man is in the back seat next to Abby and Stella .
    JACKIE
    So do you live around here, Kyle?
    KYLE
    No. Ohio.
    Jackie looks at Mike who tries to avoid her piercing gaze .
    JACKIE
    Ohio? And where are your parents?
    KYLE
    It's just my mother and me. She's back in Columbus. She could n't come.
    JACKIE
    So how did you get here?
    KYLE
    Bus.
    JACKIE
    Really? All by yourself?
    KYLE
    Yeah.
    JACKIE
    Wow.
    ABBY
    That sounds like a big deal.
    Jackie looks at Mike . From the mouths of babes .

INT. OAK KNOLL SENIOR LIVING, HALLWAY - LATER
    Mike knocks on Leo 's door . After a moment , Leo opens it .
    MIKE
    Hey, Leo, you have a visitor.
    LEO
    Who? Him?
    MIKE
    Yeah.
    KYLE
    Hi.
    LEO
    Come on in. I'll turn off the TV.

INT. OAK KNOLL SENIOR LIVING, LEO'S ROOM - SAME.
    Leo turns off the TV and then turns and looks at Kyle . He does n't recognize him .
    MIKE
    This is Kyle Timmons, Leo. He's your grandson. He came from Ohio to see you.
    LEO
    I do n't have a Grandson.
    KYLE
    Yeah, you do. We just never met.
    LEO
    Are you bringing me home?
    Kyle looks to Mike , unsure of what to say .
    MIKE
    Kyle's just here for a visit, Leo.
    LEO
    Oh. You want to watch TV?
    KYLE
    OK.
    Leo turns on the TV and sits down . Kyle joins him .
    MIKE
    OK. So I'll come back to pick you up in an hour. You OK?
    KYLE
    Yeah.
    MIKE
    You alright, Leo?
    ( Leo does n't respond . )
    OK, see you in a bit.
    Mike leaves .

INT. GINA FLAHERTY'S HOUSE - LATER.
    The house is smaller than Mike 's house . GINA , MIKE 'S MOTHER , and Jackie clean up after breakfast . Mike sits with Abby at the kitchen table .
    GINA
    So did you call his mother?
    JACKIE
    No. Not yet. Oh and he was smoking too. He's sixteen!
    GINA
    He's probably on drugs.
    JACKIE
    I know.
    GINA
    What are you going to do with him?
    MIKE
    We're going to send him back is what we're going to do.
    GINA
    Well I hope so. You have your hands full over there. And now taking care of that old man too. That sounds like a lot, Mike.
    JACKIE
    Thank you, Gina. I agree. He somehow forgot to tell me about it.
    MIKE
    I told you.
    JACKIE
    Not until I asked.
    GINA
    His daughter should be taking care of him. Not you. You have me to worry about.
    MIKE
    I do n't have to worry about him. He's at Oak Knoll.
    ABBY
    Daddy? Can we play croquet today?
    GINA
    The whole thing just sounds crazy.
    JACKIE
    It is crazy. It's crazy.
    ABBY
    ( TO MIKE . )
    Who's crazy?
    MIKE
    Me.

EXT. OAK KNOLL SENIOR LIVING - LATER
    Mike and Kyle exit he building and walk toward the parking lot .
    MIKE
    How did the visit go?
    KYLE
    OK. He fell asleep watching TV. So he lives there now?
    MIKE
    Yeah. Your grandfather is in the early stages of dementia, Kyle. So sometimes he does things and says things that do n't make sense.
    KYLE
    Are you a friend of his or something?
    MIKE
    I'm his guardian.
    KYLE
    What's that mean?
    MIKE
    It means I make sure he's well taken care of.
    KYLE
    That's cool.
    Kyle lights a cigarette .

INT. MIKE'S AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, BASEMENT - NIGHT.
    Kyle 's is fiddling with KID 'S KEYBOARD . Jackie walks downstairs .
    JACKIE
    Everything alright?
    KYLE
    Yeah.
    JACKIE
    Did you reach your mom?
    KYLE
    Yeah. I told her I was coming home.
    JACKIE
    Did she want to talk to me or anything?
    KYLE
    No.
    JACKIE
    Well, I'm sorry you ca n't stay longer but maybe you can come back with your mom and visit again.
    KYLE
    Yeah. If I want to smoke should I go outside?
    JACKIE
    You should n't be smoking.
    KYLE
    I know. But if I do.
    Jackie decides not to engage .
    JACKIE
    Yeah. You should go outside.
    KYLE
    OK. Good night, Jackie.
    JACKIE
    Good night, Kyle.
    Jackie nods and leaves .

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, KITCHEN - SAME.
    Mike is leaning against the counter eating ice cream . Jackie emerges from the stairs , shuts basement door behind her and slides a dead bolt locking it .
    MIKE
    What are you doing?
    JACKIE
    We have kids, Mike. I'm not taking any chances with Eminem down there.
    MIKE
    There's not even a bathroom down there.
    Jackie thinks about this and then unlocks the door in a huff and walks up stairs .

INT. OAK KNOLL SENIOR LIVING, DINING ROOM - DAY.
    Mike and Kyle are sitting with Leo who is eating breakfast .
    LEO
    Hey Mike, could you talk to them about getting Coco Puffs? I like that kind.
    MIKE
    Sure thing, Leo.
    LEO
    ( TO KYLE . )
    Mike's a stand up guy. You need cereal then talk to him.
    Kyle and Mike smile . Mike checks his watch .
    MIKE
    We should go, Kyle.
    KYLE
    OK. Bye Leo.
    LEO
    Are you going to work?
    KYLE
    No. I'm going home.
    LEO
    Well, do n't take any shit from any of those guys.
    Kyle smiles . He does n't always understand this guy but he likes him .
    KYLE
    I wo n't.
    He leaves .

EXT. BUS STATION - LATER.
    Mike and Kyle are waiting for the bus . Mike pulls out his wallet .
    MIKE
    Here's fifty bucks in case you need it.
    Mike counts his cash .
    KYLE
    I have money.
    MIKE
    Actually it's only forty - three but take it. You never know.
    KYLE
    I have enough money. But thanks.
    The bus pulls up .
    MIKE
    Well, good luck, Kyle.
    KYLE
    Yeah. You too, Mike.
    Kyle gets on the bus . Mike watches it pull away .

INT. MIKE'S AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, BEDROOM - NIGHT.
    Mike and Jackie are sleeping . The phone rings and Mike answers the phone .
    MIKE
    Hello? Yes, it is. Yes. OK.
    Jackie sits up and turns on the light .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    OK. Thanks. I'll be right down.
    He hangs up the phone .
    JACKIE
    What?
    MIKE
    It was the police. They have Kyle.
    JACKIE
    What? Why?
    MIKE
    Breaking and entering.
    Mike gets up .
    JACKIE
    What?

EXT. POLICE STATION - LATER.
    Mike and Kyle walk out of the New Providence Police Station .
    MIKE
    So what happened?
    KYLE
    I decided not to go home.
    MIKE
    And then you decided you'd break into your Grandfather's house?
    KYLE
    You mind if I have a quick smoke?
    MIKE
    Yeah, I do. Get in the car.

INT. MIKE'S CAR - SAME.
    Kyle fastens his seat belt .
    MIKE
    So you want to tell me what happened?
    KYLE
    Not really.
    MIKE
    Yeah. Well good luck with that, pal.
    Kyle looks at Mike .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    You'll see.

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE - LATER.
    Jackie is waiting . Kyle is on the hot seat . Mike is watching .
    JACKIE
    Kyle?
    Kyle can barely look at her .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    We ca n't help you if you do n't tell us what's going on. Is there a reason you do n't want to go home?
    Kyle remains silent .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    What happened to your eye, Kyle?
    Kyle shifts . Avoiding .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Kyle. You can trust us.
    Kyle looks up at them . Trust is obviously an issue .
    KYLE
    I ca n't live there anymore.
    JACKIE
    With your Mom? Did she do that to your eye?
    KYLE
    No. She's not even there. She's in a clinic or hospital or whatever. I'm living with Craig.
    JACKIE
    Who's Craig?
    KYLE
    Her boyfriend, I guess, but he's an asshole.
    JACKIE
    Does she even know you're here?
    KYLE
    My mom? She does n't care about me.
    JACKIE
    How do you know? She's probably worried sick and just does n't know how to reach you.
    Kyle reaches into his pocket and takes out his cell phone .
    KYLE
    She could've called, right?
    The sincerity of his question is heartbreaking and Jackie is cut to the quick . She looks at Mike . Brutal .

EXT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE - LATER.
    Kyle is sitting on the back steps and smoking a cigarette .

INT. MIKE'S AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, BEDROOM - LATER.
    Mike is sitting up in bed . His wheels are spinning . JACKIE . -LRB- O.S . -RRB- We do n't have a choice now .
    MIKE
    So what are we gon na do? Adopt him?
    Jackie walks into the room putting on face moisturizer .
    JACKIE
    No. But I'm not sending him back until I talk to his mother. She better freaking call me back.
    MIKE
    Honey, I know it's tough but we're not in a position to take care of another kid right now.
    She gets in the bed .
    JACKIE
    I do n't care. I'm not sending him back there, Mike. I ca n't. And for the record, I'm not very happy about it either!
    MIKE
    Then we do n't have to do this.
    JACKIE
    Yes, we do, Mike! We do. It makes me so angry and so damn sad to see that poor kid in that kind of situation. He's just a kid.
    Jackie starts to break . Mike buckles .
    MIKE
    I know. I know. You're right.
    JACKIE
    I just want to go to Ohio and. beat the crap out of his mom.
    MIKE
    Come on.
    JACKIE
    I do. I want to beat the crap out of her and her stupid boyfriend.
    MIKE
    OK.
    JACKIE
    I'm serious.
    MIKE
    I know. I'm just not sure that beating the crap out of everybody is the best solution.
    JACKIE
    Well it feels like it. I'm leaving her another message.
    Jackie picks up her phone and dials .
    MIKE
    Now?
    JACKIE
    Yes. Now. Shush!

EXT. COUNTRYSIDE - DAY.
    Terry is sitting in his parked car , talking on his cell . TERRY . -LRB- O.S . -RRB- So get rid of him again .

INT. TERRY'S CAR - SAME.
    Terry watches as a PICK UP TRUCK pulls into a beautiful country house . MIKE . -LRB- O.S . -RRB- I ca n't . Not until we figure what 's going on back there .
    TERRY
    Have you talked to his mother?
    MIKE
    No. Not yet. Jack's left her about thirty messages.
    A STRAPPING CONTRACTOR wearing a TOOL BELT gets out and walks into the house .
    TERRY
    Mother fucker. He's wearing his tool belt. MIKE.
    ( O.S . )
    What? Who?
    TERRY
    No. Sorry dude, I was distracted. MIKE.
    ( O.S . )
    Where are you? Are you watching Lori's house again?
    Terry quickly pulls out .
    TERRY
    It's my fucking house and no. I'm just driving. Where's the kid now?

INT. MIKE'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS.
    Mike is sitting at his desk .
    MIKE
    He's sitting in my waiting room. Jackie made me take him with me. TERRY.
    ( O.S . )
    Alright, listen pal, this is not the time to long that stock, you know what I mean?
    MIKE
    No. What does that mean?
    TERRY
    It means you should n't be taking care of another kid. Especially a convict.
    MIKE
    ( ON PHONE . )
    Yeah, well.
    Shelly pops her head in .
    SHELLY
    I found her.
    Mike spins in his chair .
    MIKE
    Let me call you back. TERRY.
    ( O.S . )
    Fine. But get rid of the convict, Mike!
    Mike hangs up .
    SHELLY
    She's in a drug treatment program in Columbus. She has five weeks to go.
    MIKE
    Jesus. Can I talk to her?
    SHELLY
    They said she would call you.
    Mike shakes his head . Nothing is easy here .
    SHELLY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    He's kind of a sweet kid but what's up with hair?
    MIKE
    Who knows?
    A knock on the door .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Yeah.
    Kyle opens it .
    KYLE
    Can I go visit Leo?
    Mike looks to Shelly who just shrugs .
    MIKE
    Uh. yeah. OK. You know where it is?
    KYLE
    Yeah. Just down the street.
    MIKE
    OK, yeah. Just stay there and I'll pick you up at about three.
    KYLE
    OK.
    Kyle shuts the door . Mike looks at Shelly .
    SHELLY
    That's some crazy hair, I'm just saying.

INT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGHSCHOOL GYM, THE PIT - LATER.
    Kyle is sitting in the corner watching . Mike is standing and watching . He does n't like what he sees .
    MIKE
    Hey, Rew, what are you doing? Coach, can you get on Pill.
    VIGMAN
    Get up, Rew.
    REW gets up and Vigman gets down on the other wrestler , PILL .
    MIKE
    Everyone watch because none of you are doing it right. You want to put your chest into his side.
    Vig does it but he 's a bit off .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Just slide back a bit, Vig. A bit more. Yeah. Right there. Then you give him your full weight. Go ahead Vig.
    Vig does . Pill starts to buckle . Vig is big .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Then you ride the crotch and break him down with a cross - face.
    Vigman grabs Pill under the crotch , applies a stiff cross - face and then drives him hard to the mat . Another Wrestler , STEMLER chimes in . Stemler is wearing a STAR WARS t - shirt .
    STEMLER
    Oh man, how'd that feel, Pill? We'll just call you `` pancake''!
    Stemler 's a bit off .
    PILL
    Shut up, Chewbaka.
    STEMLER
    Yeah, right. More like the `` Secret Apprentice''.
    FEENEY
    What are you, ten years old, Stemler?
    Mike loses it .
    MIKE
    Hey! We're trying to teach you guys something and you're all just goofing off. Shut up!
    VIG
    Quiet!
    MIKE
    Last time I checked we have n't won a match! Right coach?!
    VIG
    It's embarrassing, guys.
    MIKE
    It's embarrassing. But you're all acting like you do n't care! Well, I'm not getting paid enough to just jerk around here.
    ( gestures to Vig . )
    I do n't know about you?
    VIG
    I'm not getting paid enough.
    MIKE
    I care about what I do and so should you!
    VIG
    I care!
    MIKE
    So does coach Vig, and so should you! Run em, Coach. I ca n't look at them anymore!
    VIG
    Let's go ladies!
    Mike storms out past Kyle who watches him go .

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, DINING ROOM - LATER.
    Mike , Jackie , Abby and Kyle are eating dinner together . Abby is coloring . Mike watches Kyle as he finishes his big glass of milk .
    JACKIE
    Here, have some more corn.
    She gives him the bowl of corn .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    I'll get you some more milk too.
    Kyle finishes off the corn . Jackie gets up for the milk .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Did you call Fenn about the tree, Mike?
    MIKE
    Uh. yeah I did but Terry said he'd help and I think we can.
    JACKIE
    Mike. Do n't start. You two are not cutting down that tree. Just call Fenn.
    Stella starts to cry on the BABY MONITOR .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    I'm going to give her some Tylenol.
    And Jackie is gone .
    ABBY
    ( TO KYLE . )
    Do you want to play croquet?
    KYLE
    Now?
    ABBY
    When it's warm.
    KYLE
    Yeah, maybe.
    Mike gets up and begins to load the dishwasher .
    ABBY
    Daddy, can I watch TV?
    MIKE
    Uh. yeah but just for a half hour.
    Abby leaves . Kyle turns to Mike .
    KYLE
    Hey Mike, you think I could practice with you guys tomorrow?
    MIKE
    Yeah, if you want. Sure. And by the way, what I did in there today, yelling like that. I do n't usually do that.
    KYLE
    You were right, they deserved it.

INT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGH SCHOOL, BACK GYM - DAY.
    Mike and Kyle are walking into the gym .
    KYLE
    I do n't have wrestling shoes.
    MIKE
    Do n't worry about it. You ever wrestle before?
    KYLE
    Yeah.
    Vigman is already running the team through a drill .
    VIGMAN
    Get that ankle. Get that ankle! Time!
    MIKE
    Hey Vig. Alright, guys, listen up! Kyle's going to be working out with us for a little while.
    STEMLER
    ( LOUDLY . )
    What's up Kyle!
    The team laughs . Kyle just nods to Stemler .
    VIGMAN
    Carlos, you and Jimmy rotate him in.
    Kyle nods and walks over to Carlos and Jimmy .
    VIGMAN
    ( CONT 'D . )
    OK. Let's go. Ten seconds to get an ankle. Then we switch it up. Ready? Wrestle!
    Jimmy sits against the wall and Mike blows his whistle again the wrestlers all go at each other . Mike watches Kyle . He moves well . Fluidly . Carlos keeps trying to grab Kyle 's ankle but Kyle easily defends against it . Mike checks his watch . Then blows his whistle .
    MIKE
    Time. Switch. And. wrestle!
    Mike blows his whistle again and Kyle goes on the offensive . He gives Carlos a quick head fake and before Carlos knows what 's happened , Kyle has grabbed his ankle and tripped him down to the mat . Carlos looks shocked . Kyle pops back up but stays focused on Carlos . Mike looks to Vigman who raises an eyebrow , impressed . One thing is certain , Kyle can wrestle .

EXT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGH SCHOOL PARKING LOT - NIGHT.
    Kyle and Mike are walking toward the car .
    MIKE
    You have fun?
    KYLE
    Yeah.
    MIKE
    When's the last time you wrestled?
    KYLE
    A couple years ago.
    MIKE
    Why'd you stop?
    KYLE
    Just felt like it.
    Kyle just shrugs and Mike let 's it go . They arrive at Mike 's car and Mike talks to Kyle over the roof .
    MIKE
    So let me ask you something, Kyle. How good are you?
    Kyle just looks at Mike , almost blank .
    KYLE
    I'm pretty good.

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, MIKE'S OFFICE NOOK - LATER.
    Mike is looking at his computer screen .
    MIKE
    Holy shit.

INT. TERRY'S CONDO - LATER.
    Mike runs inside . It 's a sparsely furnished bachelor pad with all the toys . MIKE . -LRB- O.S . -RRB- You check out that link I sent you ? TERRY . -LRB- O.S . -RRB- Yeah . Kyle Timmons . That 's the kid ? MIKE . -LRB- O.S . -RRB- Yeah . That 's the kid !
    TERRY
    Holy shit!
    MIKE
    I know, right? Can you believe that?!
    Terry is in the den at his computer , reading excitedly .
    TERRY
    Holy shit! He was thirty - five and one as a freshman!
    MIKE
    I know. He finished second at the states. In Ohio!
    Mike walks into the kitchen and grabs a beer .
    TERRY
    This kid had seventeen pins. He's a killer.
    MIKE
    I know. It's nuts. And he quit after his freshman year.
    TERRY
    Why?
    MIKE
    I do n't know. He does n't talk much. He's kind of a weird kid. Why ca n't I have one kid like that on my team? Just one.
    TERRY
    What're you talking about? You do. You have him. You can take this kid to the states, Mike.
    MIKE
    He's not on the team, Ter. He's not even a student. He's been here for three days.
    TERRY
    So what? Enroll him!
    MIKE
    I'm not enrolling him. He's just here until we reach his mother and figure this out.
    TERRY
    So he's got ta do something, right? Let him wrestle. Look at this way, you're helping out the old man and this kid's a little bonus for doing the right thing.
    MIKE
    I'm not just helping out the old man, Ter. It's not like it's charity work. I'm getting paid for it.
    TERRY
    No. Shit, everyone gets paid, but think about it, Mike. What are the chances that this kid ends up on your door step and he can wrestle like that? It's a sign, pal.
    This lands with Mike . Terry sits down at his computer .
    TERRY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Check this out. There's a video link of him wrestling in some tournament.
    Terry presses play . It 's grainy and amateur but good enough . Mike looks on .
    TERRY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Look at that kid.
    Mike gets sucked in .
    MIKE
    Wow. He's gon na throw him. Look, he's setting him up. He's setting him up!
    Mike and Terry explode . They high five and hug .

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, FOYER - MORNING.
    Kyle is standing , waiting . Jackie walks out with her purse .
    JACKIE
    Here's five dollars for lunch. I have no idea what it costs but let me know when you find out.
    KYLE
    I have money.
    JACKIE
    Good for you. Save it. Now take this, it's too early to argue.
    Kyle takes it . Mike arrives .
    MIKE
    OK. Let's go, pal.
    JACKIE
    Bye Jackie.
    Kyle leaves . Mike kisses Jackie .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Hey, you sure we should do this?
    MIKE
    Why not? Whether he's here for two more days or two weeks it gives him something to do all day. Unless you want him hanging out here?
    JACKIE
    OK. Go.

INT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGHSCHOOL, MAIN OFFICE - DAY.
    Mike and Kyle are waiting . After a moment , STEVE DELUCA , THE PRINCIPAL , emerges from his office and greets them . They all walk into his office .

INT. MIKE'S OFFICE - DAY.
    Mike is working at his desk . Shelly opens the door .
    SHELLY
    Hey Mike, we got a check from Leo Poplar's trust for $ 1,500 but it's made out to you and not the firm.
    MIKE
    Right. I'll take that.
    Mike gets up and takes the check .
    SHELLY
    Should n't I deposit it in the business account?
    MIKE
    No. It's not a legal fee. It's a personal fee.
    SHELLY
    For what?
    He puts on his coat .
    MIKE
    Oh, I ended up taking on Leo's guardianship.
    SHELLY
    ( SURPRISED . )
    Really?
    MIKE
    Yeah, I thought I mentioned that to you.
    SHELLY
    No, you definitely did n't mention that.
    MIKE
    Yeah, well, it just played out that way. I have to get going.
    He turns off his computer .
    SHELLY
    Well can we put some of that in the business account so they do n't take our copier back?
    MIKE
    Uh. not this time. Next month. Promise.
    He grabs his briefcase and leaves .
    SHELLY
    We need our copier, Mike.
    MIKE
    I know. Bye Shelly.
    CLANK . CLANK . CLANK .
    SHELLY
    And that noise is getting louder. I'm not hung over today!

EXT. BANK - LATER.
    Mike walks out of the bank and dials his cell phone .
    MIKE
    Hey honey. I'm good. Could you do me a favor and drop that health insurance check in the mail? I just forgot to mail it. Yeah, it's on my desk. Thanks. I'll call you later.

INT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGHSCHOOL, LOCKER ROOM - LATER.
    Terry is walking through the locker room . A few WRESTLERS and BASKETBALL PLAYERS are getting dressed .
    TERRY
    What's up Fella's? Hitting the showers, huh?
    ( TO HIMSELF . )
    That sounded weird.

INT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGHSCHOOL, COACHES OFFICE - SAME.
    Mike and Vigman are in their office looking over a board .
    TERRY
    Oh yeah!
    MIKE
    Hey.
    TERRY
    What's up? Hey Vig.
    VIGMAN
    Hi Terry.
    MIKE
    What are you doing here?
    TERRY
    What do you think? I have to see this kid.
    VIGMAN
    He's incredible. Just incredible. And he's good to wrestle.
    TERRY
    Great. So what's next?
    Terry pulls up a stool .
    MIKE
    We're trying to figure out where he can wrestle?
    TERRY
    Where ever the hell he wants, right?
    MIKE
    No. Not right.
    Kyle knocks at the door .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Hey Kyle. Come on in. How was school?
    KYLE
    OK.
    MIKE
    This is my friend Terry.
    Terry , pops up , a bit too excitedly .
    TERRY
    Hey man! Nice to meet you! Really nice to meet you. Welcome.
    KYLE
    Thanks.
    Mike tries to cover .
    MIKE
    How the shoe's fit?
    KYLE
    Good.
    MIKE
    So let me ask you something, Kyle. You think you might want to wrestle in a match?
    KYLE
    OK.
    MIKE
    Great. We have a match on Saturday. What do you wrestle?
    KYLE
    One - nineteen.
    TERRY
    Excellent. Done.
    KYLE
    Is anyone there now?
    MIKE
    Yeah. Jimmy Reed. But I think he might be better off at 125.
    KYLE
    Do n't you think we should wrestle off? MIKE/TERRY/VIG Yeah.

INT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGHSCHOOL, THE PIT - LATER.
    KYLE 's tying his NEW WRESTLING SHOES . The rest of the team is sitting around the mat .
    VIGMAN
    Alright, let's go guys. Wrestle off.
    MIKE
    Vig, you keep time?
    Mike holds up a stop watch .
    VIGMAN
    Yeah.
    TERRY
    I'll do it.
    Terry grabs the watch from Mike .
    TERRY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    You do n't mind, do you?
    VIGMAN
    No. Go ahead.
    Mike gives Terry a look . Vig minds . Kyle and JIMMY REED shake hands . And set themselves on their marks .
    VIGMAN
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Ready? And. wrestle.
    Vigman blows his whistle and the room erupts in cheering . Most of it for Jimmy Reed except for Stemler who is rooting for Kyle . Jimmy and Kyle lock arms but Kyle pushes him away . Jimmy locks again but Kyle pushes him away again . Jimmy comes in hard this time and Kyle uses his momentum to quickly throw him to the ground . Jimmy tries to scramble to his knees but Kyle is all over him . He quickly locks Jimmy in a cradle and rocks him onto his back . It looks easy . Vigman calls the pin . The room is quiet . except for Terry .
    TERRY
    Wow!
    Mike shoots Terry a look . Kyle helps Jimmy off the mat .
    KYLE
    Good match.
    JIMMY
    Did n't feel good.
    Vigman turns to Mike and Terry .
    VIGMAN
    I do n't think we can teach him anything.

INT. DIMAIO'S PIZZERIA - LATER.
    Mike , Terry , Kyle , Jackie and the kids are eating pizza .
    TERRY
    I do n't know why we did n't quit. Just the smell of that room brought back the memories. I hated it, it was like a form of self - abuse.
    KYLE
    Were you guys that bad?
    TERRY
    Mike was average. I sucked. Sorry Abby.
    ABBY
    It's OK.
    Mike checks his watch .
    MIKE
    I got ta stop by the office and deal with the computer. Should I?
    JACKIE
    No, I'll take him.
    TERRY
    We both should have quit. Then we could have joined the ski club and gotten busy with Allison Shepard on the overnights.
    MIKE JACKIE

    Hey ! Yo ! Terry !
    ABBY
    Who was busy?
    JACKIE
    Your Uncle Terry is just silly.
    TERRY
    Sorry Abby. Getting busy is bad.
    Kyle cracks up . Terry catches his eye .

INT. MIKE'S OFFICE - LATER.
    Terry is sitting in Mike 's office . A bottle of scotch and two glasses on the desk .
    KYLE
    Hey, how do you think we'd do against Kyle? Now? MIKE.
    ( O.S . )
    He'd kill us. Both of us. Together.
    TERRY
    Yeah, you're right. The kid has man strength, dude.
    Mike emerges from under the desk .
    MIKE
    Man strength?
    TERRY
    Yeah. You know. Not kid strength. Man strength.
    MIKE
    Yeah. I would n't say that around the locker room.
    TERRY
    What the hell are you doing anyway?
    MIKE
    Trying to figure out what's wrong with my fricking back - up system.
    TERRY
    Just call your IT guy?
    MIKE
    I do n't have an IT guy. IT guys cost money.
    TERRY
    OK. I'm just gon na say what's on my mind. I want to be an assistant coach too.
    MIKE
    Seriously?
    TERRY
    Yeah. Why not? I'm value added. Especially compared to Vig.
    MIKE
    How are you value added?
    TERRY
    Well first of all I'm fun. No denying that. And secondly, unlike Vig, I actually used to wrestle.
    MIKE
    Yeah, but Ter, you sucked.
    TERRY
    That does n't matter, your team sucks. Plus I even look more like a coach then Vig.
    MIKE
    Yeah, that's not really value added.
    TERRY
    Look, Mike, I'm serious here. I need some distraction in my life right now. All I do is sit in my condo and think about Lori and that guy having sex in the jacuzzi I paid for. It's fucking unhealthy. I've been really kind of going crazy. Really.
    Mike looks at his friend . He can tell he 's serious .
    MIKE
    We start at 3:30 pm. Do n't be late.
    TERRY
    My brother! I will not let you down. To the team.
    Terry raises his glass . Mike toasts .
    TERRY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Hey, what should I wear to practice?
    MIKE
    Just a singlet.
    TERRY
    Really?
    MIKE
    Yeah, so we can see your man strength.
    TERRY
    Good one, Coach! See, it's already fun.

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, BASEMENT - NIGHT.
    Jackie is hanging laundry . She hears a phone ringing from the laundry room . She peeks around the corner and sees that Kyle is not there . She crosses to his phone and picks it up . It reads `` Mom '' . She answers it .
    JACKIE
    Hello? Hello, this Jackie Flaherty. Kyle is staying with us. Hello?
    ( She closes the phone . )
    I'm gon na kill that lady.
    She sets the phone down and turns . Kyle is standing on the stairs . His hair is wet and he 's carrying his towel .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Oh. Hi. I heard your phone ringing and.
    KYLE
    You answered it?
    JACKIE
    Yeah, well, I saw it was your Mom and we've been waiting to hear from her.
    KYLE
    What'd she say?
    JACKIE
    She did n't say anything. She hung up. Have you talked to her?
    KYLE
    No. Can you not answer my phone anymore?
    JACKIE
    Yeah. OK. I can do that. I'm sorry.
    Jackie heads back to laundry room . She stops at the stairs .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Oh. Here's a bucket. You should n't be smoking but if you do could you put the cigarettes in here.
    KYLE
    I quit now that I'm wrestling
    JACKIE
    Oh. Good. OK.
    She leaves . Kyle walks over the couch and picks up his phone .

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE - EARLY MORNING.
    Mike and Jackie are sleeping . A sound from downstairs . Then a door opens and shut . Mike sits up and listens .
    JACKIE
    Is that Abby?
    MIKE
    If it is, she just ran away.

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS.
    Mike walks into the kitchen . Kyle is drinking water .
    MIKE
    Were you outside?
    KYLE
    Yeah. I went for a run.
    MIKE
    It's pretty early. You do this every morning?
    KYLE
    In season, yeah. I like to get my run in early and then drill some moves for an hour before school.
    MIKE
    Oh. Wow.
    KYLE
    Yeah. so I'm gon na do it. See you.
    Kyle walks downstairs .

INT. MIKE'S AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, BEDROOM - LATER.
    Mike climbs back into bed . Jackie barely moves .
    MIKE
    It was Kyle.
    JACKIE
    What's he doing?
    MIKE
    Working out.
    JACKIE
    Is he gon na do it every morning?
    MIKE
    In season. Yeah.
    Beat .
    JACKIE
    I hate you.
    MIKE
    I know.

INT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGHSCHOOL, LOCKER ROOM - DAY.
    Kyle takes off his shirt and stands on the scale wearing only his underwear . He 's lean and muscular . He has a TATOO on his right arm and PAIR OF WINGS TATOO on his shoulder blades .
    VIGMAN
    Jesus! Look at those tats.
    TERRY
    This kid is just fricking cool.
    REF
    Timmons. One nineteen. Good.

INT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGHSCHOOL, MAIN GYM - LATER.
    The New Providence team jogs out to the mat . There are maybe twenty people there . A PUNK ROCK SONG is playing .
    TERRY
    This song sucks.
    VIGMAN
    Rew picked it. He's an odd one.
    TERRY
    Hey Vig, which kid is yours anyway?
    VIGMAN
    None of them. He quit.
    TERRY
    Really? You're son quit?
    VIGMAN
    My step son and yes. Do n't get me started, I thought becoming a coach might be a nice way for us to bond. He said it was n't fierce and he quit.
    TERRY
    Harsh. So why you still doing it?
    MIKE
    Vig is leading by example. Winners never quit.
    VIGMAN
    That's right, even if it sucks. This team is just depressing sometimes.
    Terry sits next to Mike .
    VIGMAN
    ( CONT 'D . )
    That's where I sit, Ter.
    TERRY
    Sorry buddy. I got to be near, Mike. It's good luck.
    VIGMAN
    Say's who?
    MIKE
    Guys. I do n't think we should fight about our seats in front of the kids.

INT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGHSCHOOL, MAIN GYM - LATER.
    The Pioneers are getting beat . Carlos is wrestling and putting up a good fight but time is running out and he 's down by three points . He tries a desperate takedown but it backfires and the other wrestler picks up another two points . The buzzer sounds . Match over . The team gets up to greet Carlos . Kyle strips off his sweats and buckles up his head gear . He walks up to Mike for a pep talk .
    MIKE
    OK. You ready?
    KYLE
    Yeah.
    MIKE
    This kid is good. So just. you know. be ready out there.
    Terry gives Vigman a look . `` Be ready ? ''
    KYLE
    Can you give me a slap?
    MIKE
    What?
    KYLE
    Give me a slap. Across the face. Like your waking me up.
    MIKE
    Uh, OK.
    Mike cuffs Kyle on the side of the head gear .
    KYLE
    Can you do it harder?
    Mike slaps him hard . And Kyle sprints to the mat and takes his stance . The Ref blows the whistle and the wrestlers circle each other . The OTHER WRESTLER is clearly on the offensive .
    TERRY
    Come on, Kyle. Take this punk out.
    MIKE
    ( Under his breath . )
    Ter! Cut the shit! You're a coach. You're not sitting in the stands.
    TERRY
    Sorry. I'm just excited. You know me.
    The Other Wrestler shoots a single and takes Kyle down . Two points .
    TERRY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    What's he doing?
    VIGMAN
    Losing.
    MIKE
    It's his first match. Give him a break.
    The Other Wrestler is relentless . Kyle keeps trying to get up and the kid keeps breaking him down . Kyle stands up and Other Wrestler slams him to the mat . Kyle is getting beat up . The two Wrestlers go out of bounds and the Ref stops the action . Kyle gets up and Mike checks in with him .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Hey! You OK?
    KYLE
    ( SLIGHT SMILE . )
    Yeah.
    Kyle gets into the bottom position .
    VIGMAN
    Did he smile?
    MIKE
    Yeah. I think he did.
    TERRY
    Good. That's good, right?
    The Ref blows the whistle and Kyle explodes to his feet , kicking a leg back between the Other Wrestler 's legs . He lower 's his body , reaches behind him and whips the Other Wrestler to the mat . He drops down and puts him a double arm bar and runs the Other Wrestler right up over his own shoulders . The Ref drops to the mat and calls the pin . Match over . The Team jumps up and cheers .
    TERRY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    ( TO VIGMAN . )
    See. I'm good luck.
    VIGMAN
    That's got nothing to do with luck.
    Kyle shakes the other wrestler 's hands and the Ref raises his hand in victory . Kyle crosses to the opposing coaches and shakes their hands . Then he runs to back to his bench . Mike greets him with a handshake .
    MIKE
    How'd that feel? Pretty good?
    KYLE
    Yeah, pretty good.
    Mike smiles and Kyle sits down . The next wrestler , Jimmy steps up to Mike .
    MIKE
    You ready?
    JIMMY
    Yeah. Can you slap me too, Coach?
    Mike laughs . And then he slaps him .

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, DEN - NIGHT.
    Mike , Kyle and Abby are watching TV . Jackie walks in putting on her coat .
    JACKIE
    I'm going to the market. I'll be back in a bit.
    KYLE
    Can I go with you?
    JACKIE
    Uh. yeah OK.
    Kyle gets up to get his coat . Jackie looks at Mike who just shrugs .
    ABBY
    I want to go with Kyle.
    MIKE
    No, honey. It's almost bed time.

INT. GROCERY STORE - LATER.
    Jackie is shopping . Kyle catches up to her . He is carrying two BOXES OF CEREAL . He does n't put them in the basket .
    JACKIE
    Coco Puffs. Is that your brand?
    KYLE
    It's for Leo.
    JACKIE
    Nice. Drop it in, it's on me. Go ahead.
    ( KYLE DOES . )
    How's he doing?
    KYLE
    He's doing OK. He can say some pretty funny things. Yesterday he told me I was fired.
    JACKIE
    Fired? For what?
    KYLE
    I do n't know. He just fired me.
    JACKIE
    I think I have to meet this Leo.
    KYLE
    Yeah. He's a pretty funny dude.
    JACKIE
    You have any home work?
    KYLE
    A little but I already did it.
    JACKIE
    Impressive. You ever think about going to college?
    KYLE
    Yeah but just to wrestle. My old coach thought I could get a scholarship.
    JACKIE
    Yeah, I hear you're pretty good. So why'd you quit?
    Kyle just shrugs .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    You do n't have to tell me. It's alright.
    They keep walking . Jackie grabs a box of tacos from the shelf .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Do you like tacos?
    KYLE
    Yeah.
    JACKIE
    Me, too. I make a mean taco.

INT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGH SCHOOL, THE PIT - LATER.
    The team is jogging in circles around the mat . Mike , Vigman , and Terry , stand in the middle of the circle talking .
    VIGMAN
    Let's go! Circle up!
    MIKE
    Alright. I want to spend this week working on bottom position. Did you all see Kyle the other day? He exploded up. Kyle, show the guys what you did.
    Kyle is caught off guard . He hesitates
    KYLE
    It's kind of my own thing.
    MIKE
    So can you share it with us?
    KYLE
    Well, it's not a move or anything, I just tell myself that the guy on top is going to take my head and shove it under water and kill me. And if I do n't want to die on the bottom, I just got ta do what ever the fuck it takes to get out.
    This kid is intense . His words really land with Mike .
    VIGMAN
    OK. So the move is called `` whatever the fuck it takes.'' Let's go. Let's work on it. Come on. `` Whatever the fuck it takes.''
    Vigman claps and the wrestlers start to move .

INT. OAK KNOLL SENIOR LIVING, COMMUNAL ROOM - DAY.
    Kyle sitting in the communal room at a table with Leo . Kyle is doing homework . Leo is staring out the window . Court TV is playing in the background .
    LEO
    You're mother did n't want to come?
    KYLE
    No.
    LEO
    She's a tough kid that one. She tell you bad things about me?
    KYLE
    Yeah. But I never believe her anyway.
    LEO
    You should, she's your mother. Respect that.
    ( Pointng to the TV . )
    Can you turn that down? I hate that judge. I would n't be in this place if it was n't for her.
    KYLE
    But this place is pretty nice.
    LEO
    It's not my damn house! I paid for that house. Damn Judge. Turn it off!
    KYLE
    You want to take a walk outside, Leo?
    LEO
    Yeah. Let's go to my park.
    KYLE
    Your park, huh?
    LEO
    Yeah. My park.

EXT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE - NIGHT.
    Mike and Kyle get out of the car and unload a couple of small mats from the backseat .
    MIKE
    You bring the tape?
    KYLE
    Yeah. It's in my bag.
    Mike grabs his briefcase from the trunk .
    KYLE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Hey, Mike, can I ask you something?
    MIKE
    Yeah. Of course. What?
    KYLE
    Leo told me that some Judge made him move into that place. Is that true or is he just making that up?
    Mike was n't expecting this .
    MIKE
    No. That's true, pal.
    KYLE
    Why?
    MIKE
    Well because they can take good care of him there, Kyle.
    Mike 's phone rings .
    KYLE
    But he wants to live at home.
    MIKE
    I know, pal. Hang on a minute.
    ( Into cell phone . )
    Hello? Yes. This is him.
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Oh. Can you hang for a moment?
    ( TO KYLE . )
    Hey, I have to take this. I'll be right in, OK? We can talk in a minute.
    Kyle walks inside . Mike watches him go , already regretting the lie . He exhales .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    ( INTO PHONE . )
    Hi. Sorry to keep you waiting. Yeah. How are you doing?

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, KITCHEN - LATER.
    Jackie it the sink . Stella is eating . Mike is sitting at the table with a beer .
    JACKIE
    What? She does n't even know us!
    MIKE
    Yeah, well I think she heard that I'm a lawyer and I have a family and that was good enough.
    JACKIE
    For how long?
    MIKE
    Another month, I guess, until she gets out of rehab. She said that Craig guy took off. She sounded pretty shaky.
    JACKIE
    I ca n't believe this lady.
    Jackie joins Mike at the table .
    MIKE
    Yeah. I know. Where is he anyway?
    JACKIE
    In the basement with Abby.
    ( BEAT . )
    This is crazy.
    MIKE
    Yes, it is. So what do we do?
    JACKIE
    We let him stay. I do n't know, do we even have a choice?
    MIKE
    I guess we do n't.

EXT. NEW JERSEY COUNTRY SIDE - DAY
    A school bus drives through the New Jersey Farm country .

INT. SCHOOL BUS - DAY
    Kyle is siting on the bus listening to his Ipod . Stemler is sitting next to him .
    STEMLER
    You nervous?
    KYLE
    No.
    STEMLER
    I am.
    KYLE
    You're not wrestling.
    STEMLER
    I know. I'm just nervous a lot.
    KYLE
    You ever think about wrestling in a match?
    STEMLER
    Yeah. I'm just waiting for the green light from Coach. But I'm glad I'm not wrestling today. These guys are ranked fourth in the state. And you're wrestling Kenny Randall. He's undefeated. He is tough! Really tough.
    KYLE
    Thanks for letting me know.
    Vigman stands up at the front of the bus .
    VIGMAN
    Hey! Cut the chatter! You should all be playing the `` what if'' game. What if he shoots a single leg? What if he controls my wrists?
    STEMLER
    What if we all get pinned like last year?
    VIGMAN
    Shut up, Stemler! Or I'll throw you off the bus myself!
    Vigman sits back down next to Terry .
    TERRY
    Did they really pin all of you?
    VIGMAN
    Just about. It's gon na be a fucking bloodbath.

INT. MILBURN HIGH SCHOOL - LATER
    Multiple Pins . It 's a bloodbath . Jackie , Abby and Stella are in the stands and they look depressed . Kyle 's next up .
    MIKE
    OK. This is Kenny Randall. He's very good.
    KYLE
    Yeah, I heard.
    MIKE
    But you have an advantage here, he has no idea who you are, right? So he's gon na be overconfident. You take advantage of that and when you get your shot, put him away.
    Kyle nods and Mike slaps him across the face and Kyle sprints to his place on the mat and gets ready . Mike turns to the team .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    See how he runs out there? I want that kind of intensity from all of you.
    ABBY
    Why did Daddy hit Kyle?
    JACKIE
    I do n't know, honey.
    The Ref blows the whistle and the match starts . As Mike predicted KENNY RANDALL tries to end the match quickly with a throw but Kyle is too strong and too good . Kyle counters and throws Kenny to his back . Before anyone can blink , Kyle pins him . Mike , Terry , and Vigman explode off their chairs . MIKE . -LRB- CONT'D. -RRB- TERRY Yeah ! Holy shit !
    VIGMAN
    He just pinned Kenny Randall. Are you kidding me?!
    Kenny Randall looks shocked . He throws off his head gear and gets up . The MILBURN COACHES look equally shocked . The Ref raises Kyle 's hands . Kyle runs over to shake the Milburn Coaches hand and then he runs back to his bench and is greeted by Mike .
    KYLE
    He know's who I am now.
    Mike smiles as the team greets him .

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, DEN - LATER.
    Jackie and Stella are sitting on the ground . Kyle walks in .
    KYLE
    Hi, can I watch TV in here?
    JACKIE
    Yeah but I want to show you something. Stella, who's that?
    STELLA
    Ky..
    Kyle laughs .
    JACKIE
    She started saying it at the match today.
    KYLE
    That's cool.
    JACKIE
    OK. So I have to ask, those tatoo's must have hurt, right?
    KYLE
    Not really.
    JACKIE
    Do n't lie to me. Look.
    Jackie lifts her pant leg . She has a small tatoo on her ankle .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    I got it on Spring Break. Hurt like hell.
    KYLE
    What's it say?
    JACKIE
    JBJ. Jon Bon Jovi. I'm a fan. You got a problem with that?
    KYLE
    No I do not.
    JACKIE
    That was fun today. You're good. I'm glad you started wrestling again.
    KYLE
    Yeah. Me too.
    JACKIE
    No quitting this time, you got that?
    KYLE
    Can I tell you something?
    JACKIE
    Of course.
    KYLE
    I did n't quit my old team. I got thrown off.
    JACKIE
    Why?
    KYLE
    I stole a car.
    JACKIE
    What? You're do n't even drive.
    KYLE
    Yeah. That was part of the problem.
    JACKIE
    Who's car did you steal?
    KYLE
    A teacher's.
    JACKIE
    Oh my God.
    KYLE
    It was really stupid.
    JACKIE
    Yeah. It was stupid. You could have killed yourself.
    KYLE
    Yeah. Everything just got messed up after that.
    JACKIE
    Yeah, well we all do stupid things. But the best part is that you got a another chance and now you're kicking butt.
    KYLE
    I guess.
    JACKIE
    It's true. And you know who would agree with me?
    KYLE
    Mike?
    Jackie lifts her leg .
    JACKIE
    Nope. JBJ.
    Jackie lifts her leg exposing her tatoo . Kyle smiles .

INT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGHSCHOOL, MAIN GYM - DAY.
    The Pioneers race out onto the mat to do warm - ups before a home match . They are fired up . There are more fans in the stands . Terry and Vig bob their head to the music . Kyle looks up at Jackie , Shelly and kids who are also rocking out in the stands .

EXT. PARK - DAY.
    Kyle and Jackie walk through a park with Leo .

INT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGH SCHOOL, HALLWAY - DAY.
    The wrestling team sprints through the empty hallways .

INT. STEMLER'S HOUSE - DAY.
    Kyle and Stemler are battling it out on the Wii . Stemler is wearing a helmet .

INT. MIKE'S AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, KITCHEN - MORNING.
    Mike pours himself some coffee . Jackie is feeding the kids . The basement door opens and Kyle walks out followed by Feeney , Jimmy , Carlos , and Stemler . They are all sweating profusely . Mike is about to sip his coffee when Terry walks out . He nods and follows the gang .

EXT. MIKE'S AND JACKIE'S HOUSE - DAY.
    Terry and Kyle stand side by side holding onto two ropes . Mike is cutting down the dead tree with a chain saw . Jackie Abby watch from the front porch . Mike finishes cutting and Terry and Kyle pull the tree over . Success . Mike lifts his arms in triumph .

INT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGHSCHOOL, COACHES OFFICE - DAY.
    Mike , Vigman and Terry are preparing for the match .
    VIGMAN
    They do n't have anyone at heavyweight.
    MIKE
    Really? Korsic will be happy. Tell him now so he does n't puke.
    TERRY
    Why does he puke? He's a heavyweight. He does n't have to lose weight.
    VIGMAN
    Nerves.
    TERRY
    Sweet Lord. This is a team for the ages.
    Kyle knocks on the door . Stemler is with him .
    MIKE
    What's up, guys?
    KYLE
    Stemler wants to wrestle today.
    MIKE
    You do?
    STEMLER
    Yeah, Coach. I'm pretty sure I'm ready. Right?
    KYLE
    Right.
    MIKE
    Where you gon na wrestle?
    KYLE
    He could wrestle 119. I could bump up and get a pin at 125 and Jimmy goes 130. Then we're only giving up one weight class and we got a shot.
    Vig and Terry look at Mike .
    MIKE
    Huh. Vig?
    VIG
    Yeah. He's right. It's possible.
    TERRY
    Have you ever wrestled in a match before Stemler?
    STEMLER
    No, I have not.
    KYLE
    You're just waiting for the green light, right?
    STEMLER
    Right. I think now is my time. I can feel the force.
    The three coaches all look at each other .

INT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGHSCHOOL, LOCKER ROOM - LATER.
    Terry holds up a CUP OF STICKS with weight classes written on them . The BERKLEY HEIGHTS COACH selects a stick and reads the weight .
    BH COACH
    One twenty - five.
    Vigman reads off the roster .
    VIGMAN
    We start at 125 pounds. Depasquale and Timmons. We'll finish at 119 pounds. Tomlinson and Stemler. STEMLER.
    ( O.S . )
    I'm ready Coach.
    The Coaches all turn to see Stemler already wearing his singlet and headgear .
    STEMLER
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Show time.
    VIGMAN
    Thanks for the update Stemler.
    TERRY
    We're dead.
    MIKE
    No. It's gon na be fine.

INT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGHSCHOOL, MAIN GYM - LATER.
    The SCORE BOARD reads 33 - 31 . The 112 pound weight class is wrestling .
    MIKE
    Hook the arm! Carlos, hook the arm!
    Carlos does and holds on for the win . The team cheers . Mike turns to Vigman and Terry .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    How we doing?
    VIGMAN
    With that win, we're up by five. If Stemler does n't get pinned, we win.
    TERRY
    That's a huge fucking `` if''. STEMLER.
    ( O.S . )
    I can hear you, Coach.
    They all turn . Stemler is standing right there . He looks petrified .
    VIGMAN
    Good job, Ter.
    TERRY
    Sorry, Stemler. You're a champ.
    MIKE
    Come here, Stemler.
    Mike takes Stemler by the shoulders .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    You've been practicing for a long time. You're ready for this. You hear me?
    Stemler nods .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    If you get in trouble out there, you just listen to me. I'm right here, OK?
    Stemler nods again . Too scared to respond .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    OK. You are not going to get pinned! You hear me! No way!
    STEMLER
    ( BARELY AUDIBLE . )
    No way. No way.
    MIKE
    Good. Now I'm going to slap you. Ready?
    STEMLER
    Yeah but not so hard.
    Mike gives him an odd half - slap and Stemler runs out to the mat and takes his place at the line . The team cheers . But then the other WRESTLER runs out . He is wearing a BLACK PROTECTIVE FACE MASK . Stemler spins away from the line and looks pleading at Mike .
    STEMLER
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Holy shit! It's Darth Vader! Are you kidding me? No way!
    He does look like Darth Vader . But in a singlet . MIKE/TERRY/VIGMAN Do n't worry . It 's just a mask . You are ready ! Get on that line . Now !
    KYLE
    Hey, Stemler. Come here.
    Stemler walks over .
    KYLE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    If he's Darth Vader then you're the Secret Apprentice. You got this.
    Stemler buys it .
    STEMLER
    Yeah. You're right.
    Stemler returns to the line slightly more confident . The Ref blows the whistle and the match starts . Stemler is immediately taken down . Terry looks at his feet .
    TERRY
    I ca n't watch.
    LATER -

    It 's late in third period . Stemler is losing 13 - 0 . Stemler is flat on his belly and he 's getting mauled . The Ref calls him for stalling . One point . 14 - 0 . Thirty seconds to go .
    MIKE
    Keep moving, Stemler. Keep working!
    VIGMAN
    ( Reading score card . )
    Oh shit. Oh shit!
    TERRY
    What?
    VIGMAN
    He's one point away from a tech fall and we'd lose on criteria.
    MIKE
    Shit. Really?
    TERRY
    What the hell does that mean?
    VIGMAN
    If he falls behind by fifteen points it's a technical fall. They get five team points. If that happens the score would be tied but we'd lose the match on criteria.
    TERRY
    Seriously?
    MIKE
    Fuck this!
    Mike drops to the mat .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Stemler! Stemler!
    Stemler looks over . His eyes are wild .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    You need to get up! He's trying to drown you! He wants you dead. But you are not going to die on the bottom! Do you hear me? Do you?!
    Stemler manages a nod , albeit a terrified one .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Good! Now just do the move we worked on in practice.
    Off Stemler 's confused look .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    `` Whatever the fuck it takes!''
    Stemler almost manages a smile and then he hits `` the move '' . It 's not pretty but somehow he manages to get up and out . The team goes nuts . One point for Stemler . 15 - 1 . The Other kid frantically tries to take him down but Stemler holds him off dancing wildly around the mat . The buzzer sounds . The team goes nuts . The Ref raises the other wrestler 's hand in victory but it 's Stemler who celebrates as if he just won the states . He runs off the mat and into the arms of his teammates .

INT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGHSCHOOL, HALLWAY - LATER.
    Mike and Kyle walk through the empty hallway .
    MIKE
    Hey, I'm proud of what you did today. That win meant a lot to the guys.
    KYLE
    Cool. It was good coaching with Stemler.
    Mike laughs . Then he just looks at Kyle .
    MIKE
    Let me ask you something. What's it like? Being as good as you are? What's it feel like?
    KYLE
    I do n't know. I guess it just feels like I'm in control. Of everything. You know what I mean?
    MIKE
    Yeah, I do. Must be nice.
    KYLE
    It is.

INT. UNION HIGHSCHOOL - DAY
    The DISTRICT TOURNAMENT . Kyle is ahead in points going into the second period . He chooses the top position . The Ref blows the whistle and the OTHER WRESTLER sits out and Kyle simply sucks him onto his back . It almost looks too easy .
    VIGMAN
    That's it.
    MIKE
    Yeah.
    TERRY
    District champ, baby.
    VIGMAN
    Pure fucking poetry.
    The Ref slaps the mat and it 's over .

INT. OAK KNOLL SENIOR LIVING - DAY.
    Kyle walks into Leo 's room .
    KYLE
    Hey, Leo. Guess who won the Districts?
    LEO
    Who?
    KYLE
    Me. And Mike said he got a call from a college scout about me.
    LEO
    Oh. VOICE.
    ( O.S . )
    Hi baby.
    A THIRTY - EIGHT YEAR OLD WOMAN standing in the door way . This is CINDY TIMMONS . Kyle 's mother .
    KYLE
    What are you doing here?
    CINDY
    I came to get you, honey. And to see Grandpa. I missed you so much. Can I have a hug, baby?
    Kyle looks at Leo who just shrugs . Finally , he walks toward her but then veers away and runs from the room .
    LEO
    Where's he going?
    CINDY
    Oh, he's just had to go somewhere, Dad. Do you want some juice?

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, LIVING ROOM - NIGHT.
    Mike is watching Stella who is playing on the ground . Jackie comes up from the basement .
    MIKE
    How is he?
    JACKIE
    He's upset. I do n't blame him. It's weird that she just shows up like that.
    ( Checking her watch . )
    And of course she's late, the druggie.
    MIKE
    Honey. Can you stop, please?
    JACKIE
    You're gon na talk to her, right?
    MIKE
    Yeah. I am. If you do n't punch her first.
    Car lights in the window . Mike looks out the window .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    It's a cab. It's her.
    JACKIE
    It's not my fault if I punch her.
    MIKE
    Yeah, it is. That will be your fault.
    Jackie picks up Stella . The door bell rings . Mike answers it . Cindy is standing there . She looks nervous .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Hi. I'm Mike Flaherty. Come in, please.
    CINDY
    Hi.
    MIKE
    And this is my wife, Jackie and my daughter, Stella.
    CINDY
    Hi.
    JACKIE
    Hi, Cindy. Nice to meet you.
    CINDY
    She's very cute.
    JACKIE
    Thanks. Abby, our six year old, is downstairs with Kyle.
    CINDY
    Oh. OK.
    Awkward pause .
    JACKIE
    Do you want to sit down?
    CINDY
    Thanks. This is a very nice house.
    JACKIE
    Thank you very much.
    MIKE
    Can I get you a drink or something?
    Jackie shoots Mike a look . A drink ?
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Water or soda or anything?
    CINDY
    No. No thanks. I'm fine.
    MIKE
    Right. OK. So I'll go get Kyle.
    Mike starts to go but Cindy does n't quite seem ready .
    CINDY
    How's he doing?
    MIKE
    Oh, he's doing really well. He's going to the high school here and he's wrestling on the team actually.
    CINDY
    Really? That's good. He loves wrestling so much.
    JACKIE
    He's a really sweet kid. Our girls love him.
    CINDY
    That's nice.
    Cindy starts to tremble .
    CINDY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    I am so sorry about this. it's just been such a difficult time.
    Jackie and Mike share a look . Then Jackie caves and slides over next to her .
    JACKIE
    Oh hey. these things happen, Cindy. And we've loved having him.
    Mike rolls his eyes . So much for beating the crap out of her . Abby walks upstairs .
    MIKE
    Hi, honey. This is Abby.
    CINDY
    Hi Abby.
    ABBY
    Hi.
    MIKE
    Abby, can you go get Kyle for us?
    ABBY
    He left.
    MIKE
    He left? What do you mean?
    ABBY
    He left out the window.

INT. MIKE'S CAR - NIGHT.
    Mike and Cindy are driving .
    MIKE
    I'm really sorry about this.
    CINDY
    That's okay. Thanks.
    MIKE
    You know Kyle's doing really well with wrestling here, Cindy. The regions are this weekend and if he wins there then he goes to the states.
    CINDY
    That's great.
    MIKE
    Yeah. It is and it could be really good for him. It might even mean a scholarship. Anyway, I was wondering if you could stay here for another three weeks until that's all over.
    Cindy thinks about it .
    CINDY
    I'd like to but do n't think I can afford to stay in the hotel for that long. Do you think we could stay in my dad's house?
    This is not what Mike wanted but he 's stuck .
    MIKE
    Uhh. yeah. We could probably make that work.
    CINDY
    Then, yeah, I could stay.
    MIKE
    OK. Good. That's great.
    Mike 's phone rings .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Hey. TERRY.
    ( O.S . )
    Hey. Kyle's here.
    MIKE
    Really?
    ( TO CINDY . )
    We found him.

INT. TERRY'S CONDO - SAME.
    Terry looks into the other room . Kyle is playing on the Wii .
    TERRY
    Yeah. We're playing Wii Golf. I'm destroying him. Dude, this kid really hates his mother.

INT. MIKE'S CAR - SAME.
    Mike is driving .
    MIKE
    Yeah, OK. TERRY.
    ( O.S . )
    I mean like more then I hate my ex wife.
    MIKE
    Great, Ter. Thanks. Bye.
    ( Mike hangs up . )
    He went to my friend's house. We can go get him.
    CINDY
    Maybe I'll just go back to the hotel. It might just be too much for him tonight. I can see him tomorrow.
    MIKE
    You sure?
    CINDY
    Yeah. I think maybe that's better. I know how Kyle can be.
    MIKE
    OK. I'll drop you off.
    Mike keeps driving .

INT. MIKE'S NEIGHBORHOOD - EARLY MORNING.
    Mike and Kyle are jogging . Kyle 's mood is dark .
    KYLE
    So when wrestling's over I have to go?
    MIKE
    I'm afraid so, pal. She's staying so you can finish the season. That's pretty nice of her.
    They arrive back at Mike 's house . Mike is really winded .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    I told her you'd go see her today, Kyle.
    KYLE
    Where?
    MIKE
    Where ever you want. She could come here or we could go see her at Leo's house. She moving in this morning.
    Kyle thinks .
    KYLE
    I'll go see her at Leo's before practice. But I want to go alone.
    MIKE
    ( HESITANT . )
    Yeah, that's OK but Kyle but you have to promise me.
    KYLE
    Do n't worry, Mike. I'll go.
    Mike turns and spots his OLD NEIGHBOR watching him .
    OLD NEIGHBOR
    Hi Mike.
    MIKE
    Hi Betty. How's the foot?
    BETTY
    Better.

INT. MIKE'S OFFICE, BATHROOM - DAY.
    Mike is attempting to plunge the toilet . Shelly approaches him .
    SHELLY
    Mike? Cindy's here.
    MIKE
    Really? Did she say why?
    SHELLY
    No. But she's here with an attorney.
    Mike gets up and opens the door to his office . Eleanor and Cindy stand to greet him .
    MIKE
    Hi Cindy. Hi, I'm Mike Flaherty.
    Cindy nods .
    ELEANOR
    Hi, I'm Eleanor Cohen.
    MIKE
    Please come in.
    He leads them into his office .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    I was n't aware that Cindy was represented by council.
    ELEANOR
    She retained me last week to help sort out her father's situation.
    MIKE
    Last week? I thought she just arrived two days ago.
    ( MIKE SITS . )
    How long have you been here?
    ELEANOR
    She wanted a little time to settle in and spend some time with her father.
    MIKE
    So how can I help?
    ELEANOR
    Cindy has decided that she wants a more active role in her father's care.
    MIKE
    What kind of a role is that?
    CINDY
    I want to take care of him.
    MIKE
    Really? So you want to move here?
    ELEANOR
    No. Cindy would like to bring her father back to Columbus.
    CINDY
    That's where my support network is now. It's home.
    MIKE
    Well I'm not sure that's what Leo wants.
    CINDY
    I already talked to him about it. He seem to like the idea.
    MIKE
    I understand that, Cindy. But you have n't seen Leo in a long time and he's battling dementia now so it puts me in a tough position here.
    ELEANOR
    She is the presumed Guardian, Mr Flaherty.
    MIKE
    I understand that.
    ELEANOR
    And we do hope to avoid litigation.
    MIKE
    So do I and I'm sure we can. Now, I'm sorry, but I actually have to go see a client so we'll have to set up another time to discuss this.
    CINDY
    Kyle's still coming to see me today, right?
    MIKE
    Yeah. Of course. After school.
    ELEANOR
    I'll have my office call. Come on Cindy.
    CINDY
    Thanks Mike.
    Mike nods and Eleanor and Cindy leave . Mike watches them go . CLANK . CLANK . CLANK .

EXT. QUICK CHECK - LATER.
    Mike walks out of the Convenience Store , around the corner and behind the store . He lights a cigarette . TERRY . -LRB- V.O . -RRB- I do n't get it . Is it that bad ?

EXT. NEW PROVIDENCE HIGH SCHOOL - LATER.
    Mike and Terry are standing outside talking .
    MIKE
    Yeah, it's that bad.
    TERRY
    Just take her to court, you'll kill her.
    MIKE
    I ca n't.
    TERRY
    Why not? She's a freaking mess. You're a pillar of the community, Mike.
    MIKE
    I just ca n't go back in front of Judge Lee, it wo n't look good, trust me.
    TERRY
    So maybe you'll get a different judge.
    MIKE
    She's the only Judge who handles these cases and if I look bad in front of her right now, I'm screwed. I'll have to close my fricking doors.
    TERRY
    Then dump it. Give her Poplar. It sucks but you've got your practice to worry about, right?
    MIKE
    Yeah, I do.
    TERRY
    Incoming, dude.
    Mike turns . Kyle approaches .
    MIKE
    Hey, pal.
    KYLE
    Do you know she wants to take Leo back to Ohio?
    MIKE
    Yeah. She just told me today.
    KYLE
    You're not gon na let her do that are you?
    MIKE
    I do n't know Kyle. It's complicated.
    KYLE
    What's complicated about it? She does n't give a shit about Leo. They hate each other. You ca n't let her take him.
    MIKE
    OK. OK. Look, just go get ready for practice and I'll deal with it.
    KYLE
    Fine but I told her I'm staying with you guys until we leave.
    Kyle leaves . Terry just looks at Mike .
    TERRY
    Wow. What's your play?
    MIKE
    I have no idea. I have no freaking idea!
    TERRY
    She's looking for a payout, dude. Just buy her stake and give her an exit.
    MIKE
    What the hell does that mean?
    TERRY
    Just give her some of Leo's money and send her home. He's not gon na miss it. He's in happy land.
    MIKE
    No, I ca n't do that. She's not even in his.
    Mike stops . A flash of inspiration .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    That's right. She's not and she does n't and that's my play.
    TERRY
    What's your play?
    Mike takes out his phone and dials .
    MIKE
    Do n't worry about it. I just need to make a call. Can you get practice started?
    TERRY
    Really? You want me to slap your face? Get you psyched up for the call?
    MIKE
    No. I really do n't.

EXT. BUSINESS CENTER - DAY.
    Mike walks into the brick and glass tower . MIKE . -LRB- O.S . -RRB- Look , we 're all concerned with what 's best for Leo so I 'm hoping we can settle this in an amicable way .

INT. ELEANOR COHEN'S OFFICE - SAME.
    Mike is siting down with Eleanor and Cindy .
    ELEANOR
    So do we.
    MIKE
    Good, well, I thought I'd start by laying all the cards on the table, so maybe you can understand why I'm hesitating in turning Leo over to Cindy.
    ELEANOR
    OK.
    MIKE
    Cindy, your father disinherited you from his will. Completely. And I'm afraid that ca n't change now that he's been declared incapacitated.
    CINDY
    ( TO ELEANOR . )
    Is that true?
    ELEANOR
    We'll have to see a copy of the will, Mike.
    MIKE
    Yeah. I actually brought you a copy.
    Mike reaches into his briefcase and puts the A COPY OF THE WILL on Eleanor 's desk .
    CINDY
    Who did he leave it too? Did he leave it to Kyle?!
    MIKE
    No.
    CINDY
    Then who? You?
    MIKE
    No. He left everything to the municipal parks system. He wanted the town park dedicated in his name.
    CINDY
    That scumbag! He never cared about anyone but himself and his fucking money. Did you know about this?
    ELEANOR
    Cindy please!
    CINDY
    Please what?
    ELEANOR
    ( Annoyed to Mike . )
    I'd like to discuss this with my client, Mr. Flaherty.
    CINDY
    What's to discuss? I'm not taking care of him if I'm not getting anything for it.
    ELEANOR
    Cindy, please.
    ( TO MIKE . )
    We're finished here.
    MIKE
    OK.
    Mike gets up and walks out . A smile creeps across his face .

INT. UNION HIGH SCHOOL, GYM - DAY.
    Jackie , Gina and the kids settle into the bleachers . A LARGE BANNER reads NORTHEAST REGIONAL TOURNAMENT .

INT. UNION HIGH SCHOOL, HALLWAY - DAY.
    Mike and Terry walking down the hallway eating SNICKER BARS .
    TERRY
    Brass balls, buddy. Brass balls.
    MIKE
    Yeah. And she's gone back to the motel.
    TERRY
    That's good.
    MIKE
    Yes, it is. Yeah, I think it worked.
    TERRY
    It totally worked. They opened their kimono and you made them eat the trade.
    MIKE
    I do n't what know what your talking about half the time.
    TERRY
    Really?
    MIKE
    Yeah. Really.

INT. UNION HIGHSCHOOL, BACK GYM - LATER.
    Kyle is warming up . Vigman is watching . Mike and Terry enter .
    MIKE
    It's time, Coach.
    ( TO KYLE . )
    You ready?
    Kyle just walks out of the warm - up room .
    VIGMAN
    He's ready.
    TERRY
    Yeah, he is.

INT. UNION HIGHSCHOOL GYM - LATER.
    The four men walk into the huge gym . It 's packed . Kyle is completely focused .
    VIGMAN
    Wow. This is big time. I bet there are scouts here.
    TERRY
    Definitely. And wait till we get to the states! Atlantic City here we come, baby.
    VIGMAN
    Atlantic City. Fierce.
    Mike smiles but then his smile fades . Cindy Timmons is standing against the wall . She steps forward and Kyle sees
    HER

    CINDY
    Good luck, baby.
    Kyle keeps his head down and keeps walking . Mike looks shocked but also keeps walking .

INT. UNION HIGH SCHOOL, GYM - LATER.
    Mike and Kyle are face to face .
    MIKE
    Listen to me. One more win and we are going to the states. That's what counts. That's all that matters. You hear me?
    Kyle nods . Mike can tell that he 's half listening .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Hey! Kyle. Stay in this, OK. This is your place. You are in control, remember! You control it. Now go get him. Finish this!
    Mike slaps him . And Kyle races to the mat . The wrestlers slap hands and THE REF blows the whistle . Kyle immediately shoots in for a double leg . The Other Wrestler tries to sprawl but Kyle is in too deep . Kyle lifts him high and dumps him hard to the mat . The audience reacts and the Ref stops the action . The other wrestler bravely pops up but he is obviously stung .
    REF
    Warning. Red. One point.
    MIKE
    Kyle! Hey! Control! Control!
    Kyle looks at Mike and nods but his eyes are wild . The Ref blows the whistle and Kyle and the Other Wrestler lock up . They dance a bit and finally the Other Wrestler tries to wrap Kyle up . Kyle back pedals and then literally throws the Other Wrestler off the mat . The Ref has seen enough . He quickly issues Kyle his second warning and disqualifies him from the match . It 's over . The Other Wrestler pops up and runs at Kyle . Kyle responds . The Coaches all intervene . It 's a melee .

INT. UNION HIGH SCHOOL, LOCKER ROOM - DAY.
    Kyle is sitting on the bench , perfectly still . Mike walks in and sits down next to him .
    MIKE
    How you doing?
    Kyle stares at the floor .
    KYLE
    I'm sorry.
    MIKE
    Hey, it's alright.
    Mike puts his arm on his shoulder and Kyle starts to cry . Mike squeezes him .
    KYLE
    I do n't want to go with her. I do n't.
    MIKE
    OK, pal. OK.

EXT. UNION HIGH SCHOOL, PARKING LOT - LATER.
    Mike , Terry and Kyle walk out of the school . The entire family is waiting for them . Jackie gives Kyle a big hug . Abby takes his hand . They all get into their car . Mike is just about to get in but then he sees Cindy standing by her car watching . He shuts his door and crosses to her .
    MIKE
    Why are you here?
    CINDY
    I wanted to see my son wrestle.
    MIKE
    Yeah, well your son had a pretty good chance to do something special in there. Maybe even change his life and that's gone now. I hope you're happy.
    CINDY
    That's not my fault.
    MIKE
    It is n't? Why do you think he lost his shit in there, huh?! What do you want, lady?
    CINDY
    I want my father.
    MIKE
    It did n't sound like that the other day. It sounded like you hated the guy.
    CINDY
    You have no idea what my father used to be like. No idea! He was n't like he is now! He treated me like shit and he was all I had!
    MIKE
    So now you want to return the favor? Is that it?!
    CINDY
    I want that commission! That should be mine!
    MIKE
    And that's why you're doing all this? For fifteen hundred dollars a month?
    CINDY
    Is n't that why you did it?
    This stops Mike in his tracks .
    MIKE
    Alright, I'll tell you what. You want the commission? You can have it. And you do n't even have to take Leo. I'll take care of him for free and I'll send you the check every month. On one condition.
    CINDY
    What's that?
    MIKE
    You leave Kyle here. With us. Until he finishes high school.
    CINDY
    I'm his mother. He belongs with me.
    MIKE
    Are you sure he feels that way?
    CINDY
    Do n't tell me what my son feels! He's coming with me and there is n't anything you can do about that.
    MIKE
    Then you ca n't have that commission.
    CINDY
    We'll see about that.
    MIKE
    Yeah, we will.
    Mike turns and walks away .
    CINDY
    I want to see my son!
    MIKE
    Then call him! You have his number!

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, BACK PORCH - DUSK.
    Mike sits on the back porch nursing a beer . Terry stands in the yard facing away from him .
    TERRY
    We were right there, Mike. Right fucking there. And now we have nothing. Nothing!
    Terry screams . It 's a primal scream . Mike just looks at him .
    MIKE
    You OK?
    TERRY
    No.
    Terry drinks . Mike watches him . Jackie pops out from the kitchen .
    JACKIE
    Mike, your mom's here and dinner's almost ready. Have you seen Kyle?
    MIKE
    He's not in the basement?
    JACKIE
    No.
    TERRY
    I'll track him down.
    MIKE
    Thanks, Terry.
    TERRY
    ( TO JACKIE . )
    What a day, huh?
    JACKIE
    Yeah, right.
    Terry goes inside . Jackie sits next to Mike .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    You OK?
    Mike shrugs .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    What are we gon na do, Mike?
    MIKE
    There's nothing to do. I ca n't stop her. She's gon na leave and she's gon na take Kyle and Leo with her.
    JACKIE
    And you do n't think you'd beat her in court?
    MIKE
    No. I do n't.
    JACKIE
    Why? It's so obvious she's just wants him for the money.
    Mike turns to Jackie . He wants to tell her but just ca n't .
    MIKE
    I just ca n't win this one, Jackie. Trust me.
    Jackie misinterprets Mike 's guilt for pain . She backs off .
    JACKIE
    I do.

INT. CINDY'S MOTEL ROOM - LATER.
    Cindy is smoking next to the open window . She is nervous . A knock on the door . She throws the cigarette out the window and closes it . She checks herself in the mirror and opens the door . Kyle is standing there .
    CINDY
    Kyle, honey, come in. I'm so glad you came.
    She steps back and he enters .
    CINDY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Have a seat, honey. Do you want a soda or something?
    He sits on one bed .
    KYLE
    No. What do you want?
    She sits on the other facing him .
    CINDY
    I just wanted to say how sorry I was about the match and if I did anything to cause it then I will never forgive myself. I know how much wrestling means to you, baby.
    KYLE
    Is that why you called me. Just to tell me that?
    CINDY
    No. I also wanted to say that I'll do whatever you think is best for Leo. I promise.
    KYLE
    Then leave him here. Where he is.
    CINDY
    OK. I will. If that's what you want. But I have to be honest, I'm not sure that's what Leo wants.
    KYLE
    What do you mean?
    CINDY
    Here. Read this.
    She hands him a piece of paper .
    KYLE
    What is it?
    CINDY
    It's the court transcript from when Leo was in court. My lawyer got it. Read the parts in yellow. See what it says.
    Kyle reluctantly reads it .
    KYLE
    This is n't real. The Judge told Leo he had to live there.
    CINDY
    No, honey. This is official from the court. It's what Mike said.
    Kyle reads it again .
    CINDY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    He gets paid for being Leo's guardian, Kyle. And then he just put him in that place so he did n't have to worry about him.
    Kyle stares at the page .
    CINDY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Leo belongs with us, Kyle.
    KYLE
    Why?
    Cindy is caught of guard by the question .
    CINDY
    Why what?
    KYLE
    Why does he belong with us?
    Cindy judges her son 's look and speaks from the heart .
    CINDY
    Because we deserve that money, Kyle. Not some lawyer. You're a big boy. You can understand that.
    Kyle looks at the page on more time and then suddenly , without warning , pounces on his mother pinning her to the bed . She screams . He gets in her face .
    KYLE
    Shut up! Shut up!
    She finally quiets . Terrified .
    KYLE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Listen to me! I do n't care about this. It's all bullshit. Leave Leo alone. He belongs here. Do you hear me? Do you?
    Cindy can only cry and nod . Kyle grabs the paper and runs out the door .

INT. MIKE'S HOUSE - LATER.
    Mike paces around talking on the phone .
    MIKE
    OK. Thanks, Karen. I appreciate it. Bye.
    Jackie walks into the room .
    JACKIE
    Anything?
    MIKE
    He's not at Stemler's.
    JACKIE
    This is crazy, where could he be?
    MIKE
    I do n't know, he's upset, maybe he went for a walk.
    JACKIE
    Well we should take a drive, your mom can stay with the kids.
    His phone rings . Jackie stops .
    MIKE
    Hello. Yes, this is him. What?

INT. OAK KNOLL SENIOR LIVING, RECEPTION - LATER.
    A STAFF MEMBER is at the desk .
    STAFF MEMBER
    Sir, stay calm, we'll find him.
    MIKE
    Stay calm? You've lost my ward!
    JACKIE
    Mike! Calm down.
    MIKE TERRY

    Calm down ?! We are gon na sue you guys , silly . He 's a laywer ! The Staff Member picks up the phone .
    STAFF MEMBER
    Look, he's definitely not on the premises. A lot of the time they just try to go home. We're about to go there.
    Mike and Jackie share a look and leave . Terry turns to some residents who are looking on .
    TERRY
    Hey folks, listen up! Watch out for each other. MIKE.
    ( O.S . )
    Terry!

EXT. LEO POPLAR'S HOUSE - LATER.
    Mike 's car pulls up . They all get out and run up to the house .
    TERRY
    There's a light on.
    JACKIE
    It's got to be him. Do have the key?
    MIKE
    No. I did n't bring it with me.
    They arrive at the front door . Mike tries the knob . It 's locked .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Shit.
    Mike goes to edge of the porch , climbs up onto the railing and looks into the side window . Leo is sitting in a chair watching TV .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    There he is!
    JACKIE
    What's he doing?
    MIKE
    Watching TV.
    TERRY
    What's he watching?
    JACKIE
    Who cares?
    MIKE
    Leo? Hey Leo?
    Mike knocks on the window . Leo does n't register it .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    He's not responding. Ring the bell.
    Jackie does . Leo still does n't respond .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Nothing. Fuck.
    TERRY
    This is freaking spooky.
    Mike climbs down back onto the porch .
    TERRY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Should we break in?
    MIKE
    I have a key back at the office. I could go get it.
    JACKIE
    Is he OK?
    MIKE
    He seems it. He's just sitting there.
    Suddenly the door opens . Leo is standing there .
    LEO
    Hi. MIKE/TERRY/JACKIE Hi. / Hey.
    LEO
    Come on in.
    Leo walks away . They all follow him .
    TERRY
    OK. That is very creepy.

INT. LEO POPLAR'S HOUSE - SAME.
    They walk into the house following Leo into the living room . He sits back in his chair and start watching TV again .
    MIKE
    You OK, Leo?
    Leo just watches TV .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    How did you get here, pal?
    Mike stoops over and tries to connect with Leo .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    ( GENTLY . )
    Did you walk here, Leo?
    Leo turns and looks at them as if he is about to speak . The all wait for his reply and then . KYLE . -LRB- O.S . -RRB- I brought him here . They all jump .
    JACKIE MIKE

    Kyle ? You took Leo ?
    KYLE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Yeah.
    MIKE
    Have you lost your mind?! We've been worried sick about him!
    JACKIE
    About both of you!
    KYLE
    You do n't have to worry about us.
    Kyle walks out of the room .
    TERRY
    OK. That's super spooky. Just saying.

INT. LEO POPLAR'S KITCHEN - CONTINUOUS.
    Kyle walks into the kitchen , he turns off a pot of boiling water and strains some pasta .
    MIKE
    Kyle, What the hell are you doing?
    KYLE
    ( VERY CALMLY . )
    Making spaghetti.
    MIKE
    Have you lost your mind?
    KYLE
    No.
    JACKIE
    Kyle, why did you do this? Please just tell us. Leo needs to be in a home.
    KYLE
    This is where he belongs.
    JACKIE
    Kyle he needs to be at Oak Knoll.
    MIKE
    Kyle, we talked about this.
    KYLE
    Yeah. We did! Listen to this.
    Kyle takes a piece of paper out of his pocket .
    KYLE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    ( READING . )
    Mike Flaherty : Mr. Poplar wants to live at home. Judge Lee : You can do that Mike? Mike Flaherty : Yes, I can. Really.
    JACKIE
    What is that?
    Jackie takes it and looks at it .
    KYLE
    It's from the court.
    JACKIE
    Where did you get this?
    KYLE
    From my mother.
    ( TO MIKE . )
    It's true is n't, Mike?
    JACKIE
    Mike?
    Mike ca n't answer . Kyle 's seen enough .
    KYLE
    You're just like her.
    He runs out . They all give chase .

EXT. LEO POPLAR'S HOUSE - CONTINUOUS.
    Mike runs outside and see 's Kyle crossing the lawn . He quickly catches up to him . Terry and Jackie follow close behind .
    MIKE
    Hey. Hey, Kyle.
    Kyle keeps walking .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Hey can you hold on a second?
    KYLE
    Leave me alone!
    MIKE
    Kyle please.
    Mike grabs Kyle one more time . Kyle rips his arm away and tries to push Mike back .
    KYLE
    Do n't touch me!
    Mike deflects Kyle and Kyle spills to the ground .
    TERRY
    Oh shit.
    Kyle gets up and starts to circle Mike . Mike has no choice but reciprocate .
    MIKE
    Would you let me explain?!
    KYLE
    Explain what? How you lied to me? How you lied to Leo?
    Kyle head pumps . Mike takes the bait and jumps back .
    MIKE TERRY

    Kyle wait . Watch the head fake !
    MIKE
    Kyle I do n't want to wrestle you.
    JACKIE TERRY

    Kyle , stop for a minute . Keep your hands out , Mike . Hands out .
    JACKIE
    Terry, stop it!
    TERRY
    I'm just trying to help.
    JACKIE
    You're not helping.
    Kyle head fakes again but this time he 's in . Before Mike knows what hits him , he 's on his back .
    MIKE TERRY

    Ow ! Oh shit .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Mike, stop it!
    Kyle is all over Mike . Mike 's trying to fight back but it 's useless and even kind of pathetic .
    MIKE
    I'm trying to stop it!
    TERRY
    Sit out Mike! Sit out!
    JACKIE MIKE

    Shut up , Terry ! Kyle , stop it ! Mike gets up to hands and knees but Kyle drives him hard to the ground . MIKE . -LRB- CONT'D. -RRB- TERRY Ow ! Shit ! Ouch ! He 's getting killed .
    JACKIE
    Would you stop coaching and break that up!
    Terry rushes in and tries to pull Kyle off but he 's lost it . Finally , he wraps his arms around Kyle and pulls him off . Kyle spins free and fronts Terry . Terry immediately puts up his hands .
    TERRY
    I'm the ref. I'm just the ref!
    Kyle turns and runs off .
    JACKIE
    Kyle! Stop! Please!
    He does n't stop . Jackie turns to Mike .
    JACKIE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Is that true, Mike?
    MIKE
    Yeah, it is.
    Mike gets up .
    JACKIE
    So why'd you move him if he wanted to stay here.
    MIKE
    Because it would have been too much work to leave him here. I could n't have done it.
    JACKIE
    Then you should n't have taken him.
    MIKE
    I had to, alright?
    JACKIE
    Why?!
    MIKE
    Because I needed the money! We needed the money.
    JACKIE
    You moved an old man out of his house to make money? Have you lost your freaking mind?
    MIKE
    No! I just did n't think it would get this complicated.
    JACKIE
    Really? Or you just did n't think you'd get caught? This stops Mike in his tracks. He ca n't answer. Jackie turns and walks away.
    MIKE
    Jack! Jack, where are you going?
    JACKIE
    Home! She walks away.
    137 INT . STEMLER HOUSE , BASEMENT - SAME . 137 Stemler is sleeping on one couch . Kyle on the other . Kyle 's cell phone rings . He wakes up and checks it . He answers it .
    KYLE
    Hello. Hello. Mom? She's not there. He hangs up. Kyle starts to put on his shoes.
    STEMLER
    Did your mom just crank call you?
    KYLE
    No.
    STEMLER
    So you and Coach Mike get in a fight because you lost?
    KYLE
    No. We got in a fight because he's an asshole.
    STEMLER
    Really?
    KYLE
    Yeah, really, Stem.
    STEMLER
    Well I'm sure he'll make it up to you, bro. You're the best wrestler he's ever had. I mean he's always been cool to me and I suck.
    This comment lands with Kyle .

INT. OAK KNOLL SENIOR LIVING - MORNING.
    Mike is sleeping on a love seat . He wakes up . Leo is sitting there watching him .
    MIKE
    Hey Leo.
    LEO
    Hi.
    MIKE
    I fell asleep. I'm sorry.
    LEO
    Sorry for what?
    That 's a big question . Mike cuts to the chase .
    MIKE
    You want to go home?
    LEO
    Yeah.

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE - LATER.
    Jackie is sitting with Stella and a cup of coffee . The front door opens and closes . Mike walks into the kitchen .
    JACKIE
    Hi.
    MIKE
    Hi. Is he here?
    JACKIE
    No. He slept at Stemler's. How about you?
    MIKE
    Oak Knoll.
    ( BEAT . )
    You're right, that's not who I am.
    JACKIE
    So what are you going to do?
    MIKE
    I have to go court.
    JACKIE
    You ca n't. You told the Judge you were keeping Leo at home.
    MIKE
    I know.
    JACKIE
    So then tell her you changed your mind. No one can question that.
    MIKE
    I ca n't, Jack.
    JACKIE
    Why not?
    MIKE
    Because it's not true.
    JACKIE
    Well I'm glad your done lying now, just in time to lose your practice. That's how we survive, Mike. Your family. You ever think of that?
    MIKE
    Yeah. All the time.
    Jackie quickly crosses to the sink . She starts to clean . She breaks something .
    JACKIE
    Shit.
    She braces herself against the sink and exhales . Mike just watches her .
    MIKE
    I'm sorry, Jack. I really am.
    JACKIE
    I know.
    A noise from the basement . Mike heads down the stairs .

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, BASEMENT - CONTINUOUS.
    Jackie and Mike walk downstairs . Kyle is angrily gathering his stuff and putting it in his back pack .
    JACKIE
    Hey Kyle. How'd you get down here?
    KYLE
    The window.
    JACKIE
    Are you hungry? I was gon na make some pancakes.
    KYLE
    No. I'm leaving. I just came to get my shit.
    They share a look and walk over to Kyle .
    MIKE
    Kyle, listen, I just wanted to say I'm sorry.
    KYLE
    I know, Mike, you're sorry. Everyone's always sorry.
    MIKE
    I moved Leo back home, Kyle. And I'm gon na fight to keep him there.
    KYLE
    It's too late. You'll lose. My mother's gon na take him.
    MIKE
    Maybe but I'm still gon na try.
    KYLE
    So what?! You want me to forgive you now? Is that it, Mike?!
    MIKE
    No. I just want you to give me another chance. That's all I'm asking.
    Mike 's sincerity is undeniable . Kyle looks to Jackie . They connect . Kyle shakes his head , turns around , and then throws his bag .
    KYLE
    This is bullshit!
    Mike looks at Jackie .
    MIKE
    Hey, Kyle, listen -
    KYLE
    I want to be alone.
    MIKE
    What?
    KYLE
    ( Without looking at them . )
    I JUST WANT TO BE DOWN HERE ALONE!
    MIKE
    OK. All right. Yeah.
    Jackie and Mike turn and start to walk upstairs but Jackie stops .
    JACKIE
    Kyle, I just wan na say - we love you.
    Kyle keeps his back turned to them as they continue up the stairs .

INT. KITCHEN - LATER.
    Tight on the Baby Monitor . We hear Stella crying and Jackie talking to Abby . JACKIE . -LRB- O.S . -RRB- Abby , just pick a shirt and put it on . Please . Mike is sitting alone at the kitchen table drinking a cup of coffee . The remnants of a pancake breakfast are on the table . There is one clean plate where Kyle usually sits . After a moment , Kyle comes up from the basement and sits down at the table without saying anything . He just looks at Mike . Then he serves himself a few pancakes . Mike passes him the bottle of syrup . He takes it and puts some on his pancakes . He eats . Mike watches .

EXT. UNION COUNTY COURT HOUSE - DAYS LATER.
    The group is walking up the front steps of the court house . Terry joins .
    TERRY
    Hi guys.
    MIKE
    What are you doing here?
    TERRY
    Dude, I'm your assistant coach. And just notice who is n't here.
    Mike smiles .
    TERRY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    Stephen Vigman.
    MIKE
    Yeah, I got it.
    Terry puts his arm on his friend 's shoulder .

INT. UNION COUNTY COURT HOUSE - LATER.
    The whole gang is walking toward to the courtroom .
    ELEANOR
    Mike?
    Mike turns . Eleanor approaches .
    MIKE
    Hi Eleanor.
    ELEANOR
    Can I talk to you?
    MIKE
    Sure.
    Mike and Eleanor step to the side . She looks at Mike .
    ELEANOR
    You know the transcript alone is enough to hang you.
    MIKE
    Yeah, well, we'll see what happens.
    Eleanor just looks at him , Judge and Jury . Mike blinks .
    ELEANOR
    Shame on you counselor.
    MIKE
    Is that it?
    ELEANOR
    No. My client would like to talk to you.
    Mike and Eleanor walk over to Cindy . She is barely holding it together .
    MIKE
    Hi Cindy.
    CINDY
    Hi. Is your deal still available?
    Mike tries to conceal his shock .
    MIKE
    What about Kyle?
    Cindy and Eleanor share a look .
    CINDY
    He can stay.
    MIKE
    Then yes. It is.
    CINDY
    And you'll send me the checks?
    MIKE
    Every month.
    CINDY
    You take good care of him.
    MIKE
    We will.
    Cindy nods .
    CINDY
    I want to say goodbye.
    Mike turns and waves Kyle over . Kyle look to Jackie who gives him the OK . He walks over as Mike steps away . He just looks at his mother . She gently touches his face . He does n't move . Everyone looks on as Cindy says a few words to Kyle , hugs him hard and then quickly turns and walks away . Kyle watches her go .

EXT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE - EARLY EVENING.
    A croquet ball hits a stick . ABBY . -LRB- O.S . -RRB- Your turn . Abby , Kyle , and Stemler are playing on the front lawn .
    STEMLER
    I know. Do n't rush me.
    Stemler hits a shot and the ball goes into the garden .
    STEMLER
    ( CONT 'D . )
    This mallet is crap! You see that?
    Mike pulls up and gets out of his car , wearing a suit and carrying his briefcase .
    MIKE
    Hi guys!
    ABBY
    Hi, Daddy. I'm winning.
    STEMLER KYLE

    What 's up , coach ? Hi .
    MIKE
    That's great, honey. Kyle, can you drag those garbage cans to the side of the house for me?
    KYLE
    OK.
    MIKE
    Thanks, pal.
    He runs inside .

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE - CONTINOUS.
    Mike drops his briefcase and takes off his coat .
    MIKE
    Hi Honey. JACKIE.
    ( O.S . )
    How was work?
    MIKE
    Good. I got stuck at the office with a client.
    Jackie walks in from the other room , gives Mike a kiss .
    JACKIE
    I know, Shelly called. Oh, I dropped off the fan at Leo's today.
    MIKE
    Thanks for doing that.
    Mike heads upstairs .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    I'll be right back down.
    JACKIE
    Do you have time to eat.
    MIKE
    I'll eat there.
    JACKIE
    Make sure you do.

INT. MIKE AND JACKIE'S HOUSE, BEDROOM - LATER.
    Mike takes off his suit and throws it on the bed . He puts on a casual button down blue shirt . He takes a hard look himself in the mirror , almost as if he 's steeling himself for something . Mike smiles .

INT. BAR - NIGHT.
    Terry walks in and crosses to the bar . He sits down .
    TERRY
    Can I get a banana daiquiri, please?
    The Bartender turns . It 's Mike .
    MIKE
    Sure.
    Mike opens a beer and sets it down in front of Terry .
    MIKE
    ( CONT 'D . )
    You want an umbrella with that?
    TERRY
    Nah. I'm good. But keep these coming.
    Mike checks a ticket and prepares two drinks .
    TERRY
    ( CONT 'D . )
    So how you doing, pal?
    MIKE
    Me? I'm pretty good.
    We hold on Mike as he continues to work . BLACK OUT .

Summary: Small-town New Providence, New Jersey, attorney Mike Flaherty moonlights as a wrestling coach and struggles to keep his practice solvent, while shielding his wife Jackie and their two young girls, Abby and Stella, from the extent of the problem. When his court-appointed client, Leo Poplar, who is suffering from early dementia, turns out to have no locatable relatives, he persuades a judge to appoint him as guardian, for which he will receive a stipend of $1,508 per month. Mike, however, has no intention of taking care of Leo and moves him to a senior care facility while he continues to get paid for guardianship. When Leo's troubled teenage grandson, Kyle, shows up from Columbus, Ohio, looking to live with him, Mike and Jackie let him stay with them instead. Kyle tries to break into Leo's old house, and when Mike and Jackie question him about it, he reveals his troubled family life: His mom is in rehab, she lives with her boyfriend, and he doesn't want to go back. Upon hearing this, Jackie refuses to allow Kyle to return home and lets him stay in their household. After Kyle sits in on practice, they discover that he is a talented wrestler and enroll him at Mike's high school, where he can resume his education and wrestle on Mike's losing team, helping to make them viable contenders in their league. This "everyone benefits" setup is disrupted when Kyle's mother Cindy shows up, fresh out of rehab. Cindy attempts to gain custody of her father and her son, and with them her father's substantial estate. However, Mike explains to Cindy and her lawyer that Leo had disinherited her from his will, causing her to become furious. Later, Cindy calls Kyle to her hotel room to show him court documents proving that Mike is supposed to keep Leo at home and not at the elderly home. Kyle reacts violently towards his mother before running away. Upon learning the truth about Mike, the boy rejects him as a money-seeking opportunist no better than his mother. Realizing the mistake of his earlier actions, and seeking instead to do what's best for both Leo and Kyle, Mike offers Cindy the monthly stipend in exchange for leaving them in his care. He and Jackie take Kyle into their home permanently and return Leo to his, with Mike instead taking a job as a bartender to address his financial problems.