Fade in:
EXT. Monterey, calif. coastal area - SPRING - DAY
MAIN TITLES BEGIN
EXT. ROUTE NINE - EARLY MORNING
It's a glorious spring morning in 1912. A gleaming new automobile, a Cadillac Model Thirty, an open four-seater with an innovative self-starter motor liberating drivers from having to use a crank, comes into view, the driver hell bent for leather.
EXT. ZACHARY'S AUTO - MOVING - CONTINUOUS
At the wheel is ZACHARY DUNCAN, good-looking, muscular, exuberant, 30-ish, attired in fashionable Eastern clothes.
WOMAN (V.O.)
He was a man of action and boundless energy, that's for certain. And a troubled man too. A man in search of something very deep and meaningful. Even though at that precise moment, he may not've known exactly what it was he was looking for...
EXT. ROUTE NINE - CONTINUOUS
Zachary's auto meets up with A COWHAND in a buckboard going at a good clip in the same direction. The "new" West meeting the "old" West, as it were. They are neck and neck. Without any words being said, Zachary looks over at the cowhand and offers a challenge. The race is on! But the auto soon outpaces the horse -- cowhand and buckboard are left behind.
EXT. ZACHARY'S AUTO - MOVING - CONTINUOUS
Zachary grins, triumphantly. Up ahead, he sees:
EXT. ROUTE NINE - CONTINUOUS
An ancient wooden road sign riddled with bullets that reads: WELCOME TO DESTINY.
EXT. MAIN STREET - DESTINY - CONTINUOUS
A typical one-street Western town consisting of a bank, a telegraph office, a saloon, a blacksmith, a tonsorial parlor and a dress shop.
The street is empty at this early hour.
EXT. ZACHARY'S AUTO - MOVING - CONTINUOUS
Zachary is driving through town.
EXT. ENTRANCE - THE GOLDEN RING - CONTINUOUS
The swinging doors to the saloon part and out sashays A PLATINUM BLOND, tired and overripe, dressed in a flamboyant red kimono. She observes:
EXT. MAIN STREET - DESTINY - CONTINUOUS
Zachary's auto whizzing by.
EXT. ENTRANCE - THE GOLDEN RING - CONTINUOUS
The platinum blond emits a long, low whistle at the car -- and what appears to be a good-looking guy behind the wheel.
MAIN TITLES END
EXT. SHORELINE - CONTINUOUS
AN OLDER WOMAN, dignified, lovely, her silvery hair glistening in the sun, sits upon a horse moving lazily along the water's edge. She wears casual period riding clothes. There's a sadness about the woman, though, that's steeped in the past. Leading the way is her dog, a golden retriever.
WOMAN (V.O.)
As for me...well, I had been a woman in waiting for a long time back then. Waiting for what, you may wonder. Truth to tell, I didn't know myself...
Tight on the woman, lost in her memories, as she stares off toward the horizon.
WOMAN (V.O.)
But fate finally provided the start of an answer that spring afternoon outside a tiny li'l town called Destiny. It was 1912. And the Monterey coastline had never looked more beautiful...
The sound of O.S. voices startles the woman, bringing her out of her reverie. She sees:
TWO GRINNING BOYS on horseback galloping past her in the opposite direction. They wave as they go by.
The woman breaks into a warm smile and returns the wave.
The dog has come to a halt. He sees ahead:
Rising from the water, pilings from an old wooden jetty destroyed by a storm years earlier.
The dog turns its gaze toward:
The dunes immediately above the beach. A gentle wind swirls sand across the miniature Sahara.
The dog does an immediate U-turn, intent on heading home.
Close on the woman, as she shakes her head and chuckles:
WOMAN
Rufus, you funny ol' dog...
In mock obedience, she signals the horse to turn and follow.
EXT. DRIVEWAY - HACIENDA - AFTERNOON
Above a steep curving driveway can be seen a hacienda, two stories high, designed in the classic Mission style.
EXT. HACIENDA - CONTINUOUS
On closer inspection, we can see the rundown dwelling is in need of lots of TLC.
WOMAN (V.O.)
A big winery had bought the land...but had no interest in the hacienda itself. Nor the antique furnishings that came with it.
EXT. VERANDA - HACIENDA - CONTINUOUS
The front door is open. MR. DENNY, a local realtor, 50-ish, exits the hacienda and carefully locks up. He wears a satisfied smile, as he crosses to:
EXT. FRONT YARD - HACIENDA - CONTINUOUS
Denny crosses the ample, but parched lawn. He reaches:
WOMAN (V.O.)
In fact, no one else was interested in that ol' heap either.
The gate to a low fence, left partially ajar. Up close, we can see the paint is peeling.
As soon as Denny touches it, the gate snaps off its hinges and clatters to the ground. The realtor pays it no mind and steps smartly through to:
EXT. DRIVEWAY - HACIENDA - CONTINUOUS
Denny strides down the driveway toward:
WOMAN (V.O.)
Place had been vacant for years.
EXT. MONTALVO ROAD - CONTINUOUS
A "for sale" sign, courtesy of DENNY REALTY, is staked there. With great pleasure, Denny yanks it out of the ground.
WOMAN (V.O.)
But that was all about to change...
EXT. MONTEREY HOTEL - coNTINUOUS
Several horses tied up at the hitching post outside a charming hostelry near the shore stare at their parked companion -- Zachary's auto.
Young man (V.O.)
...Then, Miss McGuire, telephone New York...Bob Gladstone...
Young woman (V.O.)
...and give him the "good news?"
INT. DINING ROOM - MONTEREY HOTEL - CONTINUOUS
At a key table, Zachary savors a heaping bowl of chowder.
Across from Zachary is his secretary, JODIE MC GUIRE, attractive, early 20s, sharp-tongued, stylishly dressed, making notes on a pad between bites of a salad.
Zachary
Tell Bob we'll be staying out here...at "the hacienda." Love saying that. Okay, in my new house.
Jodie dutifully makes the required note on her pad -- but can't help curling her lip at "my new house."
Zachary becomes reflective -- and stares off into space.
Jodie waits expectantly, then looks up from the pad.
Jodie
Yes, Mr. Duncan...?
Zachary comes out of it -- and looks over at Jodie.
ZACHARY
Oh. Tell Bob I feel a need to return to my California roots. I'm looking for..."inspiration."
JODIE
Yes, sir.
ZACHARY
Tell him I'm going to beat this writer's block if it's the last thing I do. We'll have a first draft of CODE OF THE WEST to him by September...and leave Mr. Zane Grey trailing in the dust!
As Jodie finishes up the notation on her pad:
JODIE
All right. Oh, forgot to tell you. A message arrived from your Aunt Cora just before lunch.
Zachary flashes a gentle smile, as he asks:
ZACHARY
How're things in Santa Barbara?
JODIE
Fine. She's "longin' to see you."
Zachary nods, as if to say, "Will do." A WAITER appears. Clearing the soup plate before Zachary, he inquires in a most solicitous manner.
Waiter
Was our special Monterey chowder to your liking, Mr. Duncan?
ZACHARY
Delicious. Just as you said.
The waiter gives a courtly bow and exits.
Jodie produces a letter, the stationery decidedly feminine.
JODIE
Sir, another letter arrived from...Miss Carstairs.
Zachary accepts the letter with no sign of interest, placing it under a pile of papers at his elbow.
EXT. BACK DOOR - COTTAGE - AFTERNOON
After unsaddling her horse in an adjacent stable, the woman and her dog have arrived at a cottage and discover:
Insert: A folded note tucked in the door.
INT. KITCHEN - COTTAGE - MOMENTS LATER
The kitchen is warm and cozy. At the sink, the woman refills Rufus' water bowl and places it on the floor, where he anxiously awaits.
While Rufus laps noisily at the water, the woman picks up the note she's left on the counter. Unfolding it, she reads:
Insert: On DENNY REALTY letterhead is written in a masculine scrawl: I've sold the hacienda!
Tight on the woman, her face a mask.
INT. ZACHARY'S BEDROOM SUITE - MONTEREY HOTEL - NIGHT
Moonlight streams in through an open window to reveal:
Zachary, clad in stylish striped pajamas, asleep as:
DREAM SEQUENCE BEGINS
INT. BEDROOM - PARK AVE. APARTMENT - NIGHT
A bedside lamp is lit, revealing Zachary and JENNIFER CARSTAIRS, gorgeous, glamorous, 20s, making love.
WOMAN (O.S.)
Zachary...are you there?
The woman's voice should remind us of the narrator's voice.
Startled, Zachary and Jennifer look to:
The open bedroom door. We see the silhouette of A WOMAN standing there, back lit by the hall light.
DREAM SEQUENCE ENDS
INT. ZACHARY'S BEDROOM SUITE - MONTEREY HOTEL - CONTINUOUS
Zachary wakes with a start. He remembers where he is -- and that he's alone in bed. Very much alone.
EXT. BEDROOM WINDOW - COTTAGE - NIGHT
The wind slams a shutter violently against the outer wall.
INT. BEDROOM - COTTAGE - CONTINUOUS
The sudden noise awakens the woman, who was asleep in a four-poster. She jumps with a start and looks around the moon-drenched room, half-expecting to see a familiar person stand-ing there. But she, too, is quite alone.
EXT. general store - DESTINY - MORNING
The next day. Zachary's auto is parked outside.
INT. GENERAL STORE - CONTINUOUS
Panning across the store with its floor-to-ceiling shelves of canned goods, hardware, pot-bellied stove, pickle barrel.
Discovering and holding on Zachary, waiting at the counter piled high with household items he's buying.
As Jodie comes into view, checking a note on her pad:
JODIE
...And what about a housekeeper?
ZACHARY
Maybe Samantha can help with that.
JODIE
"Sam." Says she prefers "Sam."
Zachary nods. He and Jodie look over at:
Behind the counter stands SAMANTHA "SAM" STRATTON, pretty, friendly, tomboyish, about 19, waiting on ANOTHER CUSTOMER.
Jodie eyes the pile on the counter and says to Zachary:
JODIE
You've bought out the store.
ZACHARY
Here for the long haul, aren't we?
Sam and the customer have finished their transaction. As the customer exits the store, Sam joins Zachary and Jodie on the other side of the counter.
Sam
Sorry for the interruption, folks. One less pair a'hands today. My dad's up in Sacramento on business.
Sam begins to tally up the order.
EXT. GARDEN - MORNING
A flower patch somewhere near the sea. The woman is on her knees, very much into planting forget-me-nots in a flower bed. Nearby sits Rufus, watching her every move. The sound of a horse-and-carriage slowly approaching fades in and:
EXT. clearing - CONTINUOUS
A horse-and-carriage arrives. Beaming, Denny gets out of the carriage and ties up the horse. He sees O.S.:
EXT. GARDEN - CONTINUOUS
The stoic woman. Though quite aware of Denny's arrival, she doesn't look up from her gardening.
Denny (O.S.)
Howdy.
Denny approaches the woman, still intent on her work.
WOMAN
'Morning, Mr. Denny.
DENNY
Find my note?
WOMAN
Yes, I did.
DENNY
Aren't you pleased?
Ever the stoic, the woman stops work and responds softly:
WOMAN
It's finally over. Glad of that.
Denny is deflated by her lack of enthusiasm.
DENNY
Uh...yes.
As she rises from the flower bed, Denny gives the woman an assist. Her face remains expressionless, as she murmurs:
WOMAN
Thank you.
The woman and Rufus begin to walk away from Denny.
DENNY
Don't you want to know something about the buyer?
WOMAN
No.
DENNY
Not even his name...?
WOMAN
Good day, Mr. Denny.
The woman and Rufus move out of frame. Denny is nonplussed.
EXT. ENTRANCE - GENERAL STORE - LATER
As Sam helps Zachary and Jodie load cartons of canned goods, utensils, etc. into the back seat of his auto.
Sam lifts up the last carton and tosses it in easily. Impressed by Sam's strength, Zachary and Jodie trade looks. Jodie quips to Sam:
JODIE
Bet you could go a couple of rounds with "Gentleman Jim" Corbett if he were still boxing...and win.
SAM
(not getting the joke)
Yeah, that's what folks say.
JODIE
Your boyfriend too?
SAM
Don't have one.
Suppressing a smile, Zachary says to Sam:
ZACHARY
As I said, there's lots of repairs to be done on the house. So you'll send over that carpenter...?
SAM
Harvey? You bet.
JODIE
We need a live-in housekeeper.
SAM
Well, I could recommend Miz Gleason. Lives outside of town.
Zachary nods. As Sam heads back to the general store:
SAM
I'll write down the directions to her place for you. Be right back.
Zachary gets behind the wheel, Jodie into the passenger seat. She turns to him, asking in a quiet but pointed voice:
JODIE
And what about...Miss Carstairs?
ZACHARY
Just leave that alone.
Jodie opens her mouth to retort. But Zachary's look tells her this is not the moment to be her usual outspoken self.
Zachary starts the car.
JODIE
But, Mr. Duncan, the directions...?
ZACHARY
Next time.
The automobile pulls away from the store with a violent screech of burning rubber.
EXT. FRONT YARD - HACIENDA - MORNING
Some days later. HARVEY, the carpenter, hammers away, repairing the gate. Pulling back to reveal the hacienda.
JODIE (V.O.)
Oh, sir. What a dreary house!
ZACHARY (V.O.)
Now, Miss McGuire, please don't hold back. Tell me how you really feel about the place.
INT. JODIE'S BEDROOM - HACIENDA - LATER
A matching set of expensive luggage sits on the frayed carpet. Pulling back to reveal Jodie in the center of a drab room, giving her bedroom the baleful eye.
Jodie moves to a brass bed -- and tests the mattress. It's lumpy beyond belief. As she shakes her head, Jodie mutters:
JODIE
Oh, my achin' back.
INT. ZACHARY'S BEDROOM - HACIENDA - CONTINUOUS
Zachary enters the master bedroom, dark and depressing, lugging two large worn suitcases initialed ZED, heavily plastered with foreign travel labels. He deposits his bags on a brass bed. Then, turns to see over in a corner:
An armoire, which is locked. There's no key.
Zachary traces his hand along the edge of the armoire's door, imagining the treasures that may be hidden within it.
INT. KITCHEN - HACIENDA - CONTINUOUS
MRS. GLEASON, a farm woman, 40-ish, scrubs the grime from the windows over the sink.
INT. SITTING ROOM - HACIENDA - AFTERNOON
A thoughtful Jodie stands at a built-in bookshelf, staring down at the novel in her hands.
Insert: Book cover, BORROWED PLUMAGE BY ZACHARY E. DUNCAN.
Tight on Jodie, releasing a soft sigh. This was Zachary's first novel. A non-Western.
Jodie stands the book back on a shelf -- beside a row of Zachary's popular Western novels. She turns to inspect:
A writing table set up for Zachary by an open window. There's an Underwood typewriter, a ream of typing paper, yellow legal pads, pens, etc.
ZACHARY (O.S.)
Miss McGuire...?
Coming forward expectantly, Jodie shouts:
JODIE
We're set up in here, Mr. Duncan!
Zachary, dressed in jeans, appears in the open doorway. He stops short when he sees the writing desk awaiting him.
ZACHARY
I'm...going...for a ride...
EXT. VERANDA - HACIENDA - CONTINUOUS
Zachary comes barreling out the open front door and:
EXT. FRONT YARD - HACIENDA - CONTINUOUS
Zachary marches past Harvey repairing another part of the fence. Looking straight ahead, Zachary says:
ZACHARY
Keep up the good work.
Harvey doesn't look up, as he says:
Harvey
Yep.
EXT. DRIVEWAY - HACIENDA - CONTINUOUS
Zachary's horse is saddled up at a hitching post. Zachary gets on the horse -- and gallops off.
EXT. SITTING ROOM WINDOW - HACIENDA - CONTINUOUS
With infinite sadness, Jodie watches as Zachary rides off.
EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - CONTINUOUS
Zachary's horseback ride takes him on a journey through the lushly green countryside.
EXT. HILL ROAD - CONTINUOUS
Man and horse come to a stop at the side of a road. Zachary gets off, tethers the horse.
Zachary does a brief hike to the crest of a tree-lined hill.
EXT. TOP OF THE HILL - CONTINUOUS
Zachary stops, leans against a tree and take in:
EXT. SHORELINE (ZACHARY'S POV) - CONTINUOUS
The view from the steep hill of the deserted beach below is breathtakingly beautiful. There's bright sun, a clear blue sky, white caps on an azure sea. Then:
EXT. FIELD AND ENVIRONS (ZACHARY'S POV) -CONTINUOUS
The breeze seems to be softly whistling an old-fashioned melody, as we pan slowly across a field of wild flowers bow-ing to the wind. Down to the wind-swept dunes, past a quaint white gazebo set whimsically in the sand, and then discover-ing and stopping to inspect a charming white cottage with a small stable, isolated, hidden by a group of tall pines at the edge of a clearing.
EXT. TOP OF THE HILL - CONTINUOUS
Zachary reacts to the dwelling. Then, he sees:
EXT. STABLE ADJACENT TO COTTAGE (ZACHARY'S POV) - CONTINUOUS
The woman on horseback and the golden retriever emerging from the stable. They progress slowly toward the beach.
EXT. TOP OF THE HILL - CONTINUOUS
Zachary follows their trek. A quiet, tranquil smile appears on his face. He's not even aware that he's smiling.
EXT. DRIVEWAY - HACIENDA - DUSK
Zachary ties his horse up at the hitching post. Unaware that he's softly whistling the old-fashioned melody the wind seemed to be carrying across the field earlier. He stops whistling when he sees:
EXT. VERANDA - HACIENDA - CONTINUOUS
Jodie rocks gently in a swing, a half glass of sherry in her hand. Her mood is somber.
JODIE
Good evening, Mr. Duncan.
As Zachary joins Jody on the veranda:
ZACHARY
How do.
JODIE
Mrs. Gleason's holding dinner.
ZACHARY
Oh. I'm not very hungry.
Jodie nods, downs her glass. There's a silence. Then:
JODIE
Have a nice ride?
Zachary nods.
JODIE
Found the sherry. Care for one?
As Zachary leans against one of the veranda's archways:
ZACHARY
No, thanks. Suspect you've sampled enough for both of us.
There's another silence. Then:
JODIE
First mail delivery here at the house today. A letter from Carol...uh, Mrs. Duncan. Your wife is still staying...
Zachary tries to maintain a poker face, as he asks:
ZACHARY
...at her mother's apartment?
JODIE
Hmmm-mmmm.
ZACHARY
How's she doing?
JODIE
Pretty good. Considering...
ZACHARY
Yeah.
Sherry-fortified, Jodie takes the bull by the horns:
JODIE
And what about Miss Carstairs?
ZACHARY
That's fini.
JODIE
What?!? You leave a wonderful woman for that...that...demi-mondaine...and it's over already?
ZACHARY
At finishing school, I thought they taught you to be young ladies...
JODIE
...yes, who can also think...and express themselves.
ZACHARY
Sometimes a little too loudly.
With that, Zachary turns on his heel and goes inside.
Jodie looks sadly after him.
INT. KITCHEN - COTTAGE - NIGHT
The woman is dressed for bed but cannot sleep. Sitting in a rocker, she has a book open before her, but can't concentrate on the text. She reaches for some embroidery and:
On the floor below, a curled-up Rufus stirs.
INT. ZACHARY'S BEDROOM - HACIENDA - NIGHT
Zachary, wearing silk pajama bottoms, tosses around in bed. He can't sleep either. Turning on his side, he sees:
The locked armoire.
INT. ZACHARY'S BEDROOM - HACIENDA - MORNING
As Jodie joins Zachary, who stands before the armoire, study-ing the thing as if it were of museum quality:
JODIE
...So this is just your basic writer's curiosity, eh. Not some clever ploy to keep from working.
Zachary gives a faint smile, nodding affirmation. Jodie watches as he further inspects the armoire. Then:
ZACHARY
One of your bobby pins, please.
Jodie hesitates, thinking this a very odd request. Zachary gives her one of his commanding looks. She shrugs, removes a bobby pin from her curls -- and hands it to him.
Zachary mouths a "Thank you" to her.
Utilizing the pin as a key, Zachary works to unlock the armoire. The lock seems to turn, but then the door is stuck, not having been opened for so long. Finally, with great ef-fort, he is able to yank open the door. It swings open and:
A volley of mothballs clatters to the floor!
Which startles Zachary and Jodie. Then, they look inside at:
The only apparel on display, a man's evening ensemble, white tie and tails (late 1800s), resting on a hanger.
Zachary reaches in for the evening clothes and brings them out. The tails are in excellent condition. He holds the evening suit up to himself, checking it out in a mirror.
JODIE (O.S.)
Looks like it'd fit you perfectly.
Zachary reacts. It's uncanny, he feels it would too.
Then, Zachary opens the jacket, checks the silken lining and reads the personal label on the inside pocket:
Insert: The name Luca Roselli is written in fancy stitching.
Jodie takes the suit from Zachary, places it on the bed.
Zachary turns his attention back to the armoire and peers deeper inside. He sees:
A row of shelves meant for shirts, undergarments, etc. Instead, they're filled with file folders crammed with yellowing legal documents.
Sifting through these papers, Zachary becomes more and more excited. The world of yesterday holds a special meaning.
Giving some documents a once-over, Zachary explains to Jodie:
ZACHARY
This stuff dates back to the mid- 1800s. The Roselli family came over from Italy, entrusting their valuable vineyard in Tuscany to relatives. Came West in a covered wagon with the other pioneers. Settled outside Destiny. With grape vines brought from Tuscany, they started their own vineyard here. The Cara Mia Winery.
With her short attention span, Jodie plops on the bed.
JODIE
Fascinating.
Zachary digs around further inside the armoire.
ZACHARY
But it is fascinating! This is someone's life in here.
Then, Zachary discovers something hidden at the back of one of the shelves. He retrieves a large square tin, which once housed quality chocolates -- and waves the tin at Jodie.
Stifling a yawn, Jodie says:
JODIE
I see, I see.
Zachary inspects the tin.
Insert: The deluxe tin is decorated on the sides and the top of the lid with illustrations of California life. It reads: IN COMMEMORATION OF THE OPENING OF CALIFORNIA'S NEW CAPITOL BUILDING, SACRAMENTO, 1874.
ZACHARY (O.S.)
This thing is almost 30 years old.
JODIE (O.S.)
How well do chocolates keep?
Inspecting the tin, Zachary laughs at Jodie and says:
ZACHARY
In this heat? I'd hate to think.
JODIE
Oh.
ZACHARY
No, I reckon there are other goodies hidden in here. Treasures of some sort. A will, maybe.
As the yawn wins, Jodie says:
JODIE
Why don't you open the darn thing and find out?
Zachary has difficulty lifting the lid from the tin -- it's been closed tight for so many years. He finally removes the lid, but in so doing, almost drops the tin itself.
Jodie laughs. As Zachary peers inside tbe tin, she cracks:
JODIE
Didn't say "Pandora's Chocolates" on that lid, did it?
Zachary shakes his head.
JODIE
Well, for all our sakes, I'm glad.
INT. SITTING ROOM - HACIENDA - NIGHT
The evening ensemble is draped over the head of a wing chair.
Zachary sits at the window table, staring at the tails. Before him, the open tin, its contents laid out on the table. They seem to call his attention back to them. He picks up:
Insert: A daguerreotype of a young blond woman in period clothes (circa late 1800s), a delicate beauty, about 20.
Close on Zachary, fascinated by the beautiful young woman in the picture. He can't take his eyes from her.
Finally, almost reluctantly, Zachary turns the picture over. There's no identifying name on the back.
Then, Zachary picks up another daguerreotype and studies it:
Insert: A handsome young man, early 20s, posed in white tie and tails identical to the one in the armoire.
JODIE (O.S.)
Hey, he's a dreamboat. Think those evening clothes belonged to him?
Startled, Zachary looks up to see Jodie standing over him. He admonishes her with:
ZACHARY
Miss McGuire.
JODIE
Well, Mr. Duncan, at least you've got my interest now.
Rolling his eyes, Zachary turns the picture of the young man over. There's no I.D. on this one either.
Jodie spies the other daguerreotype.
JODIE
What's that?
With lightning speed, Zachary turns the picture of the blond beauty face down on the table.
ZACHARY
Nothing.
JODIE
French postcard? C'mon. I've been to Paris.
Ignoring Jodie, he picks up a religious medal with a male figure on it and comments:
ZACHARY
St. George.
JODIE
How'd you know...?
ZACHARY
My Sunday school training. Aunt Cora was our teacher. Golly, she could be tough. Kept all of us kids in line when we got too rambunctious.
Chuckling, he turns over the medal and notes the engraving:
Insert: St. George's Church, London, England
ZACHARY (O.S.)
Told you. A High Episcopalian knows his saints.
Nodding, Jodie takes the religious medal from Zachary and checks it out further.
Zachary picks up the next item. It's an expensive crystal paperweight edged in gold. Encased inside the glass is a curl of blond hair.
JODIE
A lock of his lady love's hair?
ZACHARY
Maybe.
While Zachary turns his attention to the next item, Jodie sneaks a peek at the overturned "mystery" picture on the table and checks out the blond beauty. She's impressed.
Meantime, Zachary picks up a sheet of quality writing paper.
Insert: The name "Luke Roselli" is carefully written in longhand over and over and over on it.
Frowning, Zachary looks up at Jodie. What does it mean?
JODIE
"Luke Roselli." Maybe he's the guy in the picture. But why'd he write his name like that so many times?
INT. GENERAL STORE - DESTINY - DAY
Sam is in the middle of some hot dish on the wall phone.
SAM
...That secretary of his went to one of them fancy finishing schools back East. Massachusetts. Yeah. Comes from money. Wants to be a writer herself. Told me. Sure, he knows. She's only doing it for the experience. How long? Oh, 'bout six months, I think. [listens] Whole town thinks it's "scandalous" them living together in that house, housekeeper or no housekeeper. Separate bedrooms, Miz Gleason says. Why? You think something's goin' on? [listens to more] Nope. I think it's strictly on the up-and-up. Him?!? That tenderfoot wouldn't know how to kick up his heels if his life depended on it...and that's for darn tootin'!
There's the sound of an auto pulling up in front of the store. Sam ducks down to see who's arrived.
Through the front window, Zachary and Jodie can be seen getting out of his auto.
SAM (O.S.)
Speak of the devil. Gotta go.
EXT. ENTRANCE - GENERAL STORE - CONTINUOUS
As Zachary and Jodie walk away from the car:
JODIE
I'm going to stop in the dress shop and pick up some unmentionables.
Zachary smiles and nods.
In the B.G. TWO TOWNSWOMEN pass by, eyeing Zachary and Jodie disapprovingly. The writer and his secretary are oblivious.
INT. GENERAL STORE - LATER
At the counter, Sam tallies up Zachary's order on a pad, but it's obvious the customer has something else on his mind.
SAM
Let's see...dozen eggs...pound of bacon... lard...loaf of bread...
ZACHARY
Uh...Sam...
Sam looks up from her tabulating.
SAM
Something else...?
ZACHARY
Uh-uh. But I do have a question.
The hacienda I bought. Do you know anything about the previous owners?
SAM
Nope.
ZACHARY
It's known as the Cara Mia estate.
SAM
Well, years ago there was a winery hereabouts by that name. But it's
been the "ol' Roselli place," long as I can 'member.
Zachary reacts to the name "Roselli."
ZACHARY
Tell me about the hacienda.
SAM
Not much to say, really. Place has been empty since I was a li'l girl. Some say it's haunted. But that's silly. It's just a broken-down ol' house nobody wanted 'til...
ZACHARY
...that "fool dude from the East" came along and bought it.
Embarrassed, Sam looks down at the items on the counter and in a flustered gesture of the hand, accidentally sends a box of kitchen matches sailing off on Zachary's side.
As Zachary bends over to pick up the box, Sam races around the counter to retrieve it.
Just as he rises with box in hand, Zachary's head collides with Sam's. It hurts -- but the absurdity of the situation sends them off into peals of laughter.
At that precise moment, Jodie comes in from the street, carrying a parcel. She stops dead in her tracks, noting:
Zachary and Sam in close proximity, holding each other up, laughing uproariously.
Tight on Jodie, a wistful look on her face.
INT. KITCHEN - COTTAGE - sunsET
The woman stands at a table, unloading groceries from several cartons. Outside, the departing clippety-clop of a horse and buckboard can be heard.
Rufus pokes his snout into a brown paper bag filled with canned goods, placed on the floor for his entertainment.
WOMAN (O.S.)
Get your dinner soon, boy.
Rufus barks his approval.
The woman loses her grip on a can. It clatters to the floor. Exasperated with herself, she mutters:
WOMAN
Why am I so jittery...?
INT. DINING ROOM - HACIENDA - EARLY EVENING
Zachary and Jodie sit at the dining table with the chocolate tin, its contents spilling out. In his hand, an invoice that is yellowed with age.
ZACHARY
Here's a bill dated February 3, 1881. From a Doctor Minette. House call. Went to check up on Chad Roselli. What was wrong?
JODIE
And is he the dreamboat in the picture? Or is it Luke Roselli?
Zachary shrugs.
Mrs. Gleason (O.S.)
Mr. Duncan. 'Scuse me.
Zachary and Jodie look up from the invoice and see:
Mrs. Gleason, wiping her hands on an apron, standing in the open doorway leading to the kitchen. Joining them:
MRS. GLEASON
Ain't you folks hungry yet? Got a nice roast waitin' in the oven. Don't wanna overcook it.
Zachary and Jodie trade looks and laugh.
ZACHARY
We're absolutely starved!
JODIE
Just got immersed in all these artifacts and forgot about food.
Mrs. Gleason eyes the invoice in Zachary's hand.
MRS. GLEASON
What's that? A real ol' letter.
ZACHARY
A doctor's bill, actually. From a Dr. Minette. Was he your physician, by any chance?
MRS. GLEASON
No. Good doctor, folks said. Passed on a long time ago.
ZACHARY
I see. What could you tell us about the Roselli family?
MRS. GLEASON
Not much. Them bein' rich folk an' all. They had one of the most successful wineries in Monterey County. Then, somethin' bad happened -- and it was just gone.
INT. JODIE'S BEDROOM - HACIENDA - NIGHT
Her room in darkness, moonlight reveal a reflective Jodie, sitting on a cushion in a dormer window, smoking an imported cigarette in private. A frown crosses her attractive face -- and she looks out the open window toward:
INT. ZACHARY'S BEDROOM - HACIENDA
In contrast, Zachary's room is aglow with light. On a hanger, the evening clothes rest on a nail protruding from the closed closet door. Zachary sits up in the brass bed, reading over notations he's just made on a yellow legal pad. Pertaining to the objects lying beside him on the bedspread.
ZACHARY (V.O.)
From the tin, came the three remaining pieces of the puzzle...
Zachary stops reading and looks down at:
A woman's white hanky made of fine linen with lace edging.
Insert: Clearly seen is the initial "K" embroidered in fancy stitching in the corner of the hanky.
Zachary gently unfolds the hanky and lifts out a piece of expensive linen stationery that had been crumpled up, but later folded neatly in half and placed inside the material.
ZACHARY (V.O.)
Secreted inside this lady's hanky was the remains of a love letter.
He studies the crumpled piece of paper carefully.
ZACHARY (V.O.)
In a rage, apparently, someone had crumpled the letter up into a ball, intent on destroying it. But then had a change of heart and saved the second page of the letter, keeping it hidden in the hanky. The words to be cherished forever...
Insert: Written on the crumpled stationery in flowery penmanship is: Thy heart was always true to me -- Kindred.
Then, Zachary picks up the hanky and catches a whiff of a scent that remains on the linen.
ZACHARY (V.O.)
Even after all these years, the sweet, intoxicating fragrance of roses remained on the cloth...
Tight on Zachary, as he brings the hanky closer to his nostrils, inhaling the scent of roses, closing his eyes as if swept up in a rapturous moment of love. Whispering:
ZACHARY
Kindred...
Zachary comes out of it suddenly, aware of what he's just done, feeling slightly embarrassed, looking around, as if he hopes no one has witnessed his rapture. He flashes a sheepish grin, realizing he's alone in his bedroom.
Then, Zachary gently places the hanky down on the bed -- and reaches for the final item. An invoice from Penhaligon's.
Close on Zachary as he scans the invoice.
ZACHARY (V.O.)
It was a special mail order calling for "Essence of Rose Nectar." The order placed by Luke Roselli for..."Kindred." No last name...
EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - DAY
Zachary is on horseback, riding toward:
EXT. HILL ROAD - CONTINUOUS
Man and horse stop at a familiar side of the road. Zachary gets down and ties up the horse to the nearest tree.
EXT. HILLSIDE - CONTINUOUS
As he climbs the hillside, Zachary is unaware that he's whistling the mysterious old-fashioned melody he learned from the wind that first day on the hill.
JODIE (V.O.)
...So where do you go on these jaunts of yours, Mr. Duncan?
EXT. TOP OF THE HILL - CONTINUOUS
A thoughtful Zachary sits on a log atop the crest overlooking the beach.
ZACHARY (V.O.)
It's absolutely uncanny, Miss McGuire, but time and time again I find myself drawn to this one particular place. It's become my favorite spot for contemplation, for working out ideas. And I look forward to seeing my "friends."
Zachary smiles when he sees:
EXT. SHORELINE (ZACHARY'S POV) - cONTINUOUS
In the distance, the woman on horseback and her dog moving along the shoreline. Up ahead are the old wooden pilings jutting into the sea. The trio do a U-turn and start back.
EXT. TOP OF THE HILL - CONTINUOUS
Suddenly Zachary gets an inspiration. It excites him. He leaps up from the log and:
EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - CONTINUOUS
At full gallop, Zachary and the horse are headed for:
INT. DENNY REALTY OFFICE - LATER
A modest one-room office. Denny sits at his desk, as:
ZACHARY (O.S.)
Mr. Denny...
Startled, Denny looks up -- and sees a stoked Zachary barreling across the room toward him.
DENNY
Why, Mr. Duncan. Anything wrong?
ZACHARY
Not exactly. I have a question about the Cara Mia estate.
DENNY
Oh? What is it?
ZACHARY
It's regarding the previous owners.
Do any members of that family still remain among us?
DENNY
I'm not at liberty to say.
ZACHARY
Why are you being so secretive?
DENNY
It was a key proviso of my contract with the estate...when I originally agreed to represent the property. I am duty-bound not to say a word.
ZACHARY
What absolute nonsense!
DENNY
And why may I ask are you so interested in the estate?
Zachary hesitates. He realizes if he tells Denny about the commemorative tin he may have to give up its contents, be-cause they still rightfully belong to the estate.
ZACHARY
Well...I'm a writer. I was curious about the history of the hacienda. I'd love to talk to somebody about the place. I'd be willing to wager that its past is quite...colorful.
DENNY
I'm sorry, sir. I can't help you.
EXT. montalvO ROAD - DAY
Zachary stands at his rural delivery mailbox, reading intently a letter which has just arrived by post.
ZACHARY (V.O.)
...I had written to the new pastor at our church in Santa Barbara, wondering if he might have any ideas about the significance of the St. George's religious medal from London...but regretfully none could be offered.
He looks up, disappointed.
INT. COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE - DAY
As Zachary confers with A CLERK at a counter:
CLERK
...Sorry, sir. After the turn of the century, there was a disastrous fire. All the county records con-cerning Destiny were destroyed.
Zachary slumps. Another possible avenue of information has come to a dead end.
INT. FRONT HALL - HACIENDA - NIGHT
As Zachary and Jodie head for the open front door:
JODIE
Talked to Mums and Dadums today.
ZACHARY
How're things in Newport?
JODIE
Fine. Mother's been shopping for new clothes. Getting ready for their annual pilgrimage to the Continent. Les Grande Vacances.
ZACHARY
They ask about me?
JODIE
Wanted to know if you were taking good care of their little girl.
ZACHARY
Am I?
Jodie does a "comme ci, comme ca" shrug. Zachary grins.
EXT. VERANDA - HACIENDA - CONTINUOUS
As Zachary and Jodie step out on to the veranda:
JODIE
So where did you disappear to this afternoon, Mr. Duncan?
ZACHARY
Went into the general store.
Jodie's face turns to stone. Zachary is oblivious.
ZACHARY
Sam gave me some ideas about where
I might dig up some more information about the Rosellis.
JODIE
Whatta gal.
ZACHARY
Yeah, isn't she? Anyway, it didn't pan out...but I really appreciated her trying to help.
JODIE
I'll bet.
ZACHARY
And I feel we're on the verge of a real discovery...
JODIE
Oh? And once that's accomplished, do we get back to the book?
ZACHARY
Hmmm...?
JODIE
Called Mr. Gladstone today with a "progress report" regarding work on CODE OF THE WEST. Only I had nothing to report.
ZACHARY
Exactly what did you say?
JODIE
I phfumphered. I'm a pretty good phfumpherer.
ZACHARY
What was Bob's reaction?
JODIE
Wouldn't say I appeased him...but told him I'd call back next week with the promise of results. Meaning the shipment date of some manuscript pages.
ZACHARY
Oh.
JODIE
Well, I couldn't tell him the truth. That you haven't written a single line...because of your obsession with the stuff in that ol' chocolate tin.
ZACHARY
But think abut it, Miss McGuire. Those things are like clues in a real-life mystery story.
JODIE
All I know is, I'm worried sick about you.
ZACHARY
What do you mean...?
JODIE
Well, sir, I'm concerned that you're using this "mystery" to run further away...from finishing the book...and facing your responsi-bilities to Carol. Won't you at least see her, talk to her?
ZACHARY
It's too late for that.
JODIE
That's giving up without a fight.
ZACHARY
Miss McGuire...
JODIE
You'll freely admit your mistakes to others. But you won't 'fess up to Carol. What is that? Pride. Foolish pride. That's all it is!
Jodie rushes off into the night, leaving Zachary to react to the truth in her stinging denunciation.
INT. SECOND-FLOOR HALL - HACIENDA - LATER
Zachary taps gently on Jodie's closed bedroom door.
ZACHARY
Miss McGuire. Please. Talk to me.
INT. JODIE'S BEDROOM - HACIENDA - CONTINUOUS
In the darkness, Jodie is stretched across the bed, her face buried in a pillow. She refuses to answer Zachary's plea. A beat. Outside in the hall, there's the sound of a door open-ing and softly closing. Zachary has retired to the master bedroom. Jodie lifts her head then and:
Tight on Jodie, she's been crying copious tears.
INT. ZACHARY'S BEDROOM - HACIENDA - LATER
Zachary is sprawled naked across his bed, face down. He tries to sleep, but cannot.
INT. SECOND-FLOOR HALL - HACIENDA - MORNING
Zachary, freshly shaved and showered, wearing jeans, comes down the hall. The door to Jodie's bedroom is still shut. He hesitates at her door for a moment. Then, moves on and:
EXT. TOP OF THE HILL - LATER
Zachary sits on the ground, back propped against a tree. He is writing furiously on a legal yellow pad and:
ZACHARY (V.O.)
...Whereas a short while before, nothing in my life had seemed to have any meaning. Now, almost everything was becoming a new adventure. The contents of that tin remained a big question mark. In fact, the mystery of Luke and Kindred damn near drove me crazy sometimes Maybe that's why I needed a distraction from it all...
He stops his writing abruptly and gazes over at:
EXT. SHORELINE (ZACHARY'S POV) - CONTINUOUS
In the distance, the lady on horseback and her dog can be seen on their daily constitutional along the shore.
ZACHARY (V.O.)
My mind kept flashing back to that cottage on the edge of the clear-ing...and its occupants...the digni-fied lady and her trusted ol' dog.
EXT. TOP OF THE HILL - CONTINUOUS
Zachary turns and looks in the direction of:
EXT. COTTAGE (ZACHARY'S POV) - CONTINUOUS
Zooming slowly in on the cottage.
ZACHARY (V.O.)
I was caught up in a new crusade...
EXT. TOP OF THE HILL - CONTINUOUS
Close on Zachary, a resoluteness set firmly on his face.
ZACHARY (V.O.)
I had to get closer to that house!
INT. GENERAL STORE - DESTINY - LATER
Sam is precariously perched on a wall ladder, reaching too far over to stack some canned goods on a top shelf. In the B.G., no customers are in sight. She mutters to herself:
SAM
Whatever you do, don't look down...
ZACHARY (O.S.)
Sam!
Sam is startled -- and almost topples off the ladder. For-getting her own advice, she looks down and sees
Zachary, looking up at her.
SAM (O.S.)
Oh, it's you.
Sam descends. She makes a misstep -- and loses her balance, falling backwards. Zachary is there to catch her.
Still holding Sam, Zachary says:
ZACHARY
Sorry. You all right?
Sam is annoyed, embarrassed -- and pushes Zachary away.
SAM
'Course I am.
ZACHARY
I've gotta ask you something.
SAM
Well, what is it?
Sam crosses the aisle to another counter, where an open carton of canned goods awaits her. Zachary follows.
ZACHARY
A few miles East of my place, there's a steep hill that overlooks the beach. And at the bottom of the hill, there's this cottage adjacent to the dunes. A small white cottage at the edge of a rather dense pine forest.
SAM
Sounds like the ol' Shelby place.
ZACHARY
Who lives there?
SAM
Miz Roselli.
Zachary is astonished, but manages to repeat:
ZACHARY
Roselli...?
SAM
Yep.
ZACHARY
And she's a customer of yours.
SAM
Uh-huh.
ZACHARY
What's her...first name?
Sam shrugs and says:
SAM
Just "Miz Roselli" to me.
ZACHARY
Well, doesn't she ever write a check for her supplies?
SAM
This store's policy is "cash only." You oughta know that.
ZACHARY
Of course. Does she have a phone?
SAM
No phone. Don't like 'em.
ZACHARY
Is she by any chance related to the Roselli family that owned my house?
SAM
Yep.
ZACHARY
You never told me that!
SAM
Never asked me.
ZACHARY
Well, I'm asking you now.
SAM
Not much to tell. She was Eustice Shelby's daughter. Married one of them Roselli boys. Can't remember which. Li'l before my time.
Zachary thinks: Mrs. Roselli has the answers I need. He starts for the door. Sam follows, really wound up now.
SAM
Lives all alone. 'Cept, of course, for that ol' dog of hers. Never leaves her side. I bring groceries out to her once a week. Some of the folks over that way keep an eye on her too. Gettin' on, y'know.
EXT. ENTRANCE - GENERAL STORE - CONTINUOUS
Zachary hurries down the steps toward his car, as Sam continues to babble:
SAM
...Her father used to run this very store. Then, Daddy bought it lock, stock 'n barrel...back in 1879.
EXT. ENTRANCE - DRESS SHOP - CONTINUOUS
Jodie exits the shop, carrying a package. She observes:
EXT. GENERAL STORE (JODIE'S POV) - CONTINUOUS
At the wheel, Zachary takes off in his car, waving goodbye to Sam, who stands on the steps. She waves back.
EXT. ENTRANCE - DRESS SHOP - CONTINUOUS
Jodie is sure something's going on between Zachary and Sam.
EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - LATER
Zachary's auto races down the road.
EXT. FARM ROAD - CONTINUOUS
The car maneuvers its way carefully down a narrow road.
EXT. FARMHOUSE - CONTINUOUS
The car pulls to a halt in front of a rickety old farmhouse. Zachary honks his horn.
A FARMER appears in the doorway. Amazed to see Zachary -- and his fancy automobile.
Zachary asks the farmer directions to Mrs. Roselli's cottage. The farmer hasn't a clue. Scratches his head -- and shrugs.
Impatient, Zachary starts up the car, driving off in a huff.
EXT. FORK IN THE ROAD - CONTINUOUS
The car comes to a stop at a juncture.
EXT. ZACHARY'S AUTO - CONTINUOUS
Tight on Zachary at the wheel, deciding which way to go.
EXT. FORK IN THE ROAD - CONTINUOUS
Zachary decides to turn right. The car takes off again.
EXT. ANOTHER COUNTRY ROAD - CONTINUOUS
The car stops before a wall of impenetrable underbrush.
EXT. ZACHARY'S AUTO - CONTINUOUS
Close on Zachary, becoming more anxious by the moment. Bang-ing his fist on the wheel, he mutters:
ZACHARY
Gotta be a road to that place!
EXT. ANOTHER COUNTRY ROAD - CONTINUOUS
Zachary studies the terrain, then guns the gas pedal and:
The auto spins dirt and grass in a high rooster tail, as Zachary weaves the car off toward another vantage point.
Then, Zachary attempts to drive the car up a badly overgrown lane, thinks better of it, backs out and zooms off.
EXT. BACK ROAD - CONTINUOUS
The auto proceeds slowly through the undergrowth. The road is covered with tall weeds, but it's not impassable.
Zachary searches for sight of the house through the weeds. Suddenly he reacts upon seeing:
The small white cottage glimpsed in the distance.
EXT. MRS. ROSELLI'S ROAD - CONTINUOUS
The auto slowly makes its way through the weeds.
The car reaches a clearing and comes to a full stop.
Zachary gets out and looks around at:
EXT. MRS. ROSELLI'S PROPERTY - CONTINUOUS
Panning the grounds. It's a gentle study. There are many beautiful flowers and vines surrounding the small white cottage. They give the place an almost other-worldly air.
Zachary tries to contain his mounting excitement. He walks in carefully measured steps toward the cottage.
Rufus bounds toward Zachary, barking a welcome.
As the friendly dog reaches him, a startled Zachary says:
ZACHARY
Hello, ol' boy.
Zachary leans down to pet the dog.
WOMAN (O.S.)
Rufus. Bad dog. Come back here!
Zachary stands up, smiling. He turns around to see:
A WOMAN's silhouette, backlit by the sun. We should be re-minded of the woman in Zachary's dream. The same voice too.
Zachary reacts, as:
MRS. ROSELLI approaches him. She looks radiant in a dark formal silk dress, as if she was expecting company. A gold locket around her neck glistens in the late-morning sun.
Tight on Mrs. Roselli, upon a closer look at her visitor. Stopping short. Breath almost taken away, but she exclaims:
Mrs. Roselli
Oh!
Zachary is affected by her reaction. But hides it with:
ZACHARY
'Morning, ma'am.
As Zachary approaches, Mrs. Roselli composes herself. She has come to the realization that he is not who she initially thought he was. The stoicism of her ancestry resurfaces.
MRS. ROSELLI
(re Zachary's auto)
Heard tell of those modern contraptions. Now that I've seen one with my very own eyes, don't know that I approve of 'em.
Smiling at her comment, he comes face to face with the lady. Deciding not to reveal the real reason for his visit.
MRS. ROSELLI
Sir...have you lost your way?
ZACHARY
Well yes, I may have...for a while.
MRS. ROSELLI
Looking for the road back to town?
Zachary, Mrs. Roselli and Rufus move toward the cottage.
ZACHARY
No, I was just out for a drive.
MRS. ROSELLI
Figures.
ZACHARY
Pardon, ma'am?
MRS. ROSELLI
Can't help but get lost when you don't know where you're headed.
ZACHARY
Reckon you're right about that.
Mrs. Roselli tries not to stare at Zachary, but his resemblance to someone else continues to amaze her. There's a momentary lapse in the conversation. Then:
MRS. ROSELLI
Don't believe I got your name.
ZACHARY
Very rude of me, ma'am. I'm Zachary Duncan. Originally from Santa Barbara...but more recently, a resident of New York City.
MRS. ROSELLI
Pleased to meet you, Mr. Duncan. I'm Mrs. Roselli.
ZACHARY
How do you do...Mrs. Roselli.
They reach the cottage -- and stop.
MRS. ROSELLI
Are you just visiting Monterey?
ZACHARY
No.
MRS. ROSELLI
Oh, thought you might be on vacation. Staying at the hotel. Understand it's quite charming.
ZACHARY
Yes, I can vouch for that. But I recently checked out of there.
MRS. ROSELLI
Returning to New York?
ZACHARY
No. I've fallen in love with your neck o' the woods...and I've decided to settle down here.
MRS. ROSELLI
Really.
ZACHARY
Yes. Bought an old hacienda.
Mrs. Roselli's face clouds. She's almost afraid to ask:
MRS. ROSELLI
Where abouts...?
ZACHARY
Out on Montalvo Road.
Mrs. Robbins maintains a poker face, but emits a soft:
MRS. ROSELLI
Fancy that.
ZACHARY
The Cara Mia estate. There once was a great winery on that property. Do you know the hacienda?
MRS. ROSELLI
I do.
ZACHARY
It's a grand ol' place.
Mrs. Roselli heads up a path toward steps leading to the front door. Rufus follows -- as does Zachary.
ZACHARY
Wish I had your view of the sea.
MRS. ROSELLI
Yes, it is divine.
ZACHARY
I don't mean to be intrusive...but do you live here all by yourself?
MRS. ROSELLI
Yes. Matter of fact, I prefer it.
ZACHARY
Oh. But how do you entertain yourself way out here?
MRS. ROSELLI
I enjoy horseback riding by the sea. There's my sewing. Baking. Gardening. Mad about reading. Jane Austin. The Bronte Sisters. The poems of Lord Byron. Seems to me, young people nowadays have no interest a'tall in reading.
ZACHARY
Oh, I love to read too. Even do a little writing myself.
MRS. ROSELLI
(politely)
Oh?
Mrs. Roselli reaches the front steps, comes to a halt -- and turns to face Zachary. He stops too. There's an awkward silence. Indicating a hint of reluctance on Mrs. Roselli's part to end this impromptu meeting with a stranger, who reminds her of someone she knows -- or knew.
MRS. ROSELLI
Well...goodbye...Mr. Duncan. Nice meeting you.
Zachary doesn't want the visit to end either. But he smiles, nevertheless, adding a bit of a courtly bow.
Then, Mrs. Roselli forces herself to turn away from Zachary. She grasps a rail, goes up the steps. Rufus follows.
Zachary watches her ascension. He must act -- now!
Mrs. Roselli reaches the top step, her back to us. As she opens the front door:
ZACHARY (O.S.)
Mrs. Roselli...
Her back stiffens. She turns slowly to face Zachary. A beat. Then, she asks quietly:
MRS. ROSELLI
Yes...?
Zachary moves up the steps toward Mrs. Roselli, improvising as he goes, radiating that enthusiastic boyish charm of his.
ZACHARY
Y'know, I've really enjoyed talking to you today. And I wonder if I may be so bold as to...well, invite myself over for tea sometime soon.
Mrs. Roselli's face may not show it, but she's secretly pleased at the suggestion.
MRS. ROSELLI
Why...all right...
ZACHARY
Wonderful. How 'bout tomorrow?
MRS. ROSELLI
Tomorrow...?
ZACHARY
Four's a good time for tea, isn't it?
MRS. ROSELLI
Well...uh...yes.
As Zachary flashes a wide grin:
ZACHARY
Looking forward to it. 'Bye!
With that, Zachary bounds back down the steps.
Mrs. Roselli is stunned by his audacious charm. The trace of a smile appears on her face. She watches:
EXT. MRS. ROSELLI'S ROAD - CONTINUOUS
A smiling Zachary now at the wheel of his auto. He starts it up -- and waves wildly goodbye.
EXT. ENTRANCE - MRS. ROSELLI'S COTTAGE - CONTINUOUS
Mrs. Roselli returns the wave in a more ladylike fashion. Deep down inside, though, she's touched by this young man's enthusiasm -- and his interest in her. And then there is Zachary's striking resemblance to someone from her life.
EXT. DRIVEWAY - HACIENDA - LATER
Zachary's auto sails up the driveway and:
INT. FRONT hall - HACIENDA - CONTINUOUS
Zachary charges in through the open front door, shouting:
ZACHARY
Miss McGuire! Where are you?
A bewildered Jodie appears at the top of the stairs.
JODIE
Mr. Duncan. What's the matter...?
Zachary comes to a halt at the foot of the stairs. His face aglow with excitement, he looks up at Jodie -- and announces:
ZACHARY
I've found Kindred.
Tight on Jodie, startled by the news.
EXT. MRS. ROSELLI'S ROAD - AFTERNOON
Zachary's auto heads toward the cottage.
EXT. ZACHARY'S AUTO - MOVING - CONTINUOUS
Zachary is at the wheel, Jodie sits beside him. A heated conversation is in progress.
JODIE
...Mr. Duncan, will you please stop this car and let me out?
ZACHARY
No.
JODIE
First, you have the temerity to invite yourself to tea. Then, you top off that bit of unmitigated gall by bringing me along as an uninvited guest.
ZACHARY
Mrs. Roselli doesn't have a phone.
JODIE
I won't be party to such rudeness.
ZACHARY
Miss McGuire, don't be tiresome.
JODIE
Why didn't you invite Sam? She'd probably have a grand ol' time.
ZACHARY
Sam...?
JODIE
Pull over. Let me out here.
ZACHARY
I said, no.
Zachary breaks into a big grin, pointing ahead:
ZACHARY
Look!
EXT. MRS. ROSELLI'S PROPERTY - CONTINUOUS
Mrs. Roselli, dressed in another formal frock, and Rufus are waiting outside the cottage, as Zachary's car pulls up.
Tight on Mrs. Roselli, struck once again by Zachary's resemblance to someone from her life, but then remembering to conceal that reaction beneath the stoic's mask.
As Zachary exits the auto:
MRS. ROSELLI (O.S.)
Good afternoon, Mr. Duncan.
ZACHARY
Hello, Mrs. Roselli. Isn't it a beautiful day?
Jodie shoots daggers at Zachary -- and reluctantly gets out.
Close on Mrs. Roselli, a bit coolish at the sight of a young woman with Zachary. Sounding very formal:
MRS. ROSELLI
How do you do, young lady.
JODIE (O.S.)
Good afternoon.
As Zachary and Jodie reach Mrs. Roselli, Rufus barks a greeting. Jodie pets the dog, makes a fuss over him. Reacting to this, Mrs. Roselli defrosts a bit and says:
MRS. ROSELLI
Well, Mr. Duncan. You didn't tell me you had a wife...and such a lovely one at that.
Jody is charmed by the compliment.
Zachary does a double-take -- from Mrs. Roselli to Jodie and back again. As he roars with laughter:
ZACHARY
No, no. This isn't my...!
JODIE
It's not that funny, Mr. Duncan.
Zachary stops laughing abruptly. As he clears his throat:
ZACHARY
This is my secretary. Jodie McGuire. Miss McGuire, this is Mrs. Roselli.
Mrs. Roselli suppresses a smile. She likes the girl now.
As Jodie shakes Mrs. Roselli's hand:
JODIE
Hello, Mrs. Roselli.
MRS. ROSELLI
Nice to meet you, Miss McGuire.
Zachary has returned to the car and produces a box of chocolates from the back seat. Presenting it to an astonished but very pleased Mrs. Roselli, he says:
ZACHARY
Hope you like chocolates.
Mrs. Roselli inspects the box, as she exclaims:
MRS. ROSELLI
Louis Sherry. My favorite. How did you know?
ZACHARY
Just a guess.
MRS. ROSELLI
Well, thank you very much. Our tea is waiting out in the gazebo.
EXT. DUNES - LATER
Mrs. Roselli and Rufus move across the sand at a leisurely pace, followed by Zachary and Jodie.
MRS. ROSELLI
...I hear tell Santa Barbara is a lovely li'l town, Mr. Duncan.
ZACHARY
Oh, it is. Born and raised there. My father was a prominent attorney. My mother, very social. They had hoped that I would eventually take over my father's law firm. But I had other ideas. I was headstrong. Very stubborn. I went in...an entirely different direction. They were disappointed, naturally. But they were wonderful parents. They supported anything I did.
MRS. ROSELLI
The way you say "were"...are they both gone?
ZACHARY
Yes. Miss them very much.
MRS. ROSELLI
Oh. I'm sorry.
ZACHARY
Thank you. Now, it's just a maiden aunt down there...and me.
Mrs. Roselli nods and then asks:
MRS. ROSELLI
So tell me, Mr. Duncan. What type of business are you in?
Startled, Zachary looks over at Jodie for help. "It's all yours, chief," her expressive face seems to say in return.
ZACHARY
Oh...um...paper...products.
MRS. ROSELLI
Didn't realize there were any paper mills in this area.
ZACHARY
No. There aren't. I was thinking of...building one.
JODIE
Yes. Mr. Duncan has big plans for...Destiny.
Behind Mrs. Roselli's back, they glare at each other.
MRS. ROSELLI
The hacienda on Montalvo Road...you say it's your place now.
ZACHARY
Yes, that's right. Bought the house from the Cara Mia estate.
MRS. ROSELLI
The Rosellis had come over from Tuscany. Settled here in 1850. Named their vineyard the Cara Mia Winery. Made a success of wine-making from the start. As if they had the magic touch, folks said.
Zachary feigns surprise, as he says:
ZACHARY
So you're related to the Rosellis.
MRS. ROSELLI
Married into the family. Once upon a time, I lived in that hacienda.
Zachary and Jodie exchange meaningful glances.
ZACHARY
I see. Must admit I was curious.
Mrs. Roselli looks back at him for a moment, as they walk.
MRS. ROSELLI
'Bout what?
ZACHARY
Well, the previous owners. I asked Mr. Denny to fill me in, but he said he'd been ordered not to reveal anything.
MRS. ROSELLI
Those were my instructions. Nothing mysterious about it, really. The hacienda...well, it holds unhappy memories for me. So I didn't want anything to do with arranging the sale. Mr. Denny took care of all the details.
EXT. MRS. ROSELLI'S GAZEBO - LATER
There's a white wicker set. Zachary, Mrs. Roselli, Jodie sit at a circular table. Rufus lies at his mistress' feet.
As Mrs. Roselli pours tea from a silver pot:
MRS. ROSELLI
Salvatore Roselli was the patriarch. Tough. Industrious. Hard-headed. God-fearing. Roman Catholic, of course. Raised his boys strictly by the Church's doctrines...
FLASHBACK BEGINS
EXT. VINEYARD - CARA MIA WINERY - DAY
SALVATORE ROSELLI, big, stern-faced, 70ish, is working hard in a field abundant with ripe grapes. It's harvest time.
Slowly panning the field:
MRS. ROSELLI (V.O.)
There were three sons...
Discovering and holding on CESARE ROSELLI, working with less drive than his father. He is the handsome young man in white tie and tails in the daguerreotype.
MRS. ROSELLI (V.O.)
Cesare...the youngest...who came to be known as Chad...
Panning further. Discovering and holding on FRANCO ROSELLI, late 20s, who proves that good looks run in this family. He works dutifully in the field.
MRS. ROSELLI (V.O.)
Franco...the middle boy...who they called Frank...
ZACHARY (V.O.)
And what about the third son?
MRS. ROSELLI (V.O.)
Hold your horses. Getting to him.
Panning further. Discovering and holding on LUCA ROSELLI, matching the intensity of his father's zeal as he works. He bears an uncanny resemblance to Zachary.
MRS. ROSELLI (V.O.)
And the oldest boy, Luca...or Luke, as we called him. Very mature for his age. Inherited his dad's love for hard work. And could be just as rigid. With a temper that could erupt like Vesuvius when he was angry. There was no talking to him when he got like that. Yet, he could be so gentle and loving when we were alone....
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