EXT: St. Joseph’s. Father Aidan O’Connell is walking out of the church in his street clothes. As he turns out of the gate, the same young woman walks past him. She is dressed in a pair of jeans and a military style blazer. He continues down, whistling. She turns around.

CAITLIN: Aidan?

Aidan turns around.

CAITLIN: Aidan, is that you?

Aidan starts to walk slowly towards her.

CAITLIN: I can’t believe it.

Both smile.

AIDAN: Caitlin, what are you doing here?

CAITLIN: I was about to ask you that.

CREDITS ROLL

INT: Inside Fitzgeralds. Niamh Egan is serving Brendan Kearny.

NIAMH: So, have you seen the new lady who just moved in?

BRENDAN: What new lady?

NIAMH: I don’t know what her name is, but she is very pretty. She seems very nice.

BRENDAN: We don’t get many new people moving into Ballykissangel, huh Niamh?

NIAMH: I think that there’s a reason for that…

In walks Caitlin. Orla O’Connell happens to come out of the kitchen with a bowl of soup. Caitlin walks up to the bar as Orla sees her. Niamh and Brendan observe the scene.

ORLA: Caitlin!

Caitlin looks up surprised.

CAITLIN: Orla, fancy seeing you here!

Orla walks out from the bar.

ORLA: What are you doing here?

CAITLIN: I moved into a house a couple of minutes from here. I’m just checking out the town. Looks like the entire O’Connell family’s in Ballykissangel.

ORLA: Well, it’s just me and Aidan. I…I can’t believe it! I haven’t seen you in what, ten years?

CAITLIN: I think it is ten years.

ORLA: You haven’t changed a bit. Have you seen Aidan?

CAITLIN: Yes, I briefly spoke to him. He had to go run some errands.

There is a brief silence.

ORLA: Well, I suppose you feel a bit out of place here.

CAITLIN: I have to adjust to the small town setting, that’s all.

ORLA: Trust me, it took a lot of time to get used to not seeing city lights, but it’s not so bad here.

Niamh clears her throat a little.

ORLA: Oh, Niamh, this is Caitlin Mulcahy. Caitlin, this is the owner of Fitzgeralds, Niamh Egan.

CAITLIN: It’s nice to meet you.

NIAMH: So how do you like Ballyk so far?

CAITLIN: It’s quite different from where I’ve lived, but it seems very nice.

ORLA: (to Niamh) She’s a globetrotter, like me.

CAITLIN: Well I’d better get going. The house is in a dire need of a cleaning.

ORLA: Well then, see you later.

NIAMH: It was nice meeting you.

She and Caitlin shake hands.

CAITLIN: I’ll see you both around.
 

NIAMH: What can I get you, Dad?

BRIAN: Just a whiskey, Niamh. Thanks.

Niamh is pouring the whiskey.

BRIAN: Who’s the new woman?

NIAMH: Oh, her name is Caitlin Mulcahy. She’s very friendly. She was in the pub yesterday. Apparently, she knows Orla and Father Aidan.

BRIAN: Hmmm…

NIAMH: Dad, what’s on your mind now? (with a suspicious look in her eyes)

Brian seems distracted for the moment. He then gulps his whiskey, leaves a few coins on the bar, and runs out of the bar. Once outside, he hops into the Land Rover, which is parked next to the bar.

INT: St. Joseph’s. A few hours later. Caitlin steps inside. Trying to find Aidan, he is nowhere to be seen. She then slowly walks to the sacristy and knocks on the door.

AIDAN: Come in.

Caitlin opens the door and walks in.

INT: The sacristy. Father Aidan has his usual black pants and shirt with the collar on.

CAITLIN: I’m sorry. Am I bothering you?

AIDAN: Not at all. I was just about to leave and close up shop, I guess you could say.

CAITLIN: It’s so strange to see you. With the whole collar business, I mean.

AIDAN: What do you mean?

CAITLIN: I always knew you were going to be a priest, but to actually see you in this church, in this sacristy, is very overwhelming.

AIDAN: Well sometimes I surprise myself.

He is taking off his collar as he speaks and putting on his grey sweater. They walk out of the sacristy and Aidan kneels and crosses himself in front of the altar before they exit. Caitlin stands awkwardly by the side. Once outside, they seem to talk more freely.

AIDAN: So where are you staying?

CAITLIN: At this little house I inherited from my grandmother.

They walk down the road as Brian Quigley approaches them. He notices Caitlin. He stops and opens his window. Father Aidan steps up to the car.

BRIAN: Good afternoon, Father.

AIDAN: Hello Brian. How are you?

BRIAN: It is a lovely day, is it not?

AIDAN: It sure is.

There is a moment of silence. Brian looks behind him.

BRIAN: Would you mind introducing me to your friend?

AIDAN: Oh, I forgot. Brian Quigley, this is Caitlin Mulcahy.

Caitlin steps next to Aidan.

BRIAN: Well hello, Ms. Mulcahy.

CAITLIN: How do you do, Mr. Quigley?

BRIAN: Please, call me Brian. Everyone does. Where are you staying?

CAITLIN: At my house just up the road. It’s the sandy coloured one.

BRIAN: That is a lovely bit of property you have there. Are you new to Ballykay? I don’t recall seeing you around these parts.

CAITLIN: I just moved in yesterday.

Brian checks his watch.

BRIAN: Well excuse me, Father, I must be going. I have a very important business meeting in Cilldargan. I hope I shall have the pleasure of seeing you around, Ms. Fitzpatrick. It was lovely meeting you.

She extends his hand through the window and he delicately kisses it.

CAITLIN: The pleasure was all mine, Brian.

He waves a little, rolls up the window, and drives off. Aidan and Caitlin watch him drive off.

CAITLIN: I’m not sure what to make of him.

AIDAN: He is the tricky businessman. That much I can tell you.

EXT: Cilldargan office building.

INT: An office room. Brian is standing by the conference table with a whiskey, chatting with his associate, Kenneth Fitzpatrick. They are both looking at a map of Ballykissangel. Kenneth is pointing to a spot on the map.

KENNETH: It would make a nice addition to the grounds. It’s a got a nice view of the mountains.

BRIAN: Yes…imagine, putting on the green right there. It would be splendid.

KENNETH: It’s too bad it’s not for sale.

BRIAN: Oh, I don’t know about that. I think that I have a shot at that property.

KENNETH: The first thing you said to me when you came in was that someone just moved into the house.

BRIAN: Let me work on that. I think I can persuade its owner to think twice about settling in Ballykissangel.

EXT: Caitlin’s house. Although it was described as small, it is an a decent sized home with a large property overlooking the rolling hills of the Wicklow Mountains. Aidan and Caitlin have walked out of the house and into the backyard. Her two black Labs follow them.

CAITLIN: So that’s what I have been up to lately. Packing and unpacking is not very amusing, I can assure you.

They smile but no words are exchanged. Caitlin sits down on the plush grass. Aidan does so - but carefully for he does not want to stain his black pants. She is petting her dogs.

AIDAN: So I trust that you left your parents in good health?

CAITLIN: They passed away a few years ago.

AIDAN: I am very sorry to hear that.

CAITLIN: My mother was struck by a drunken driver in London. She was killed instantly and my father, the poor soul, couldn’t live without her. He died the next day.

AIDAN: These things are very unfortunate.

CAITLIN: Indeed, they are.

She looks very sad for a moment and then wipes a tear from her eye. Aidan is about to place his hand on her shoulder, but draws back reluctantly.

AIDAN: I’m sorry. I should have never brought the subject up. I know how you feel. Even after all these years, I still miss my mum and dad.

CAITLIN: The worst thing is that I was in the States at the time. I mean, I totally took them for granted. I never imagined that it would happen.

As if to remember something from his past, Aidan looks out into the mountains.

AIDAN: Many of us take things for granted. Which is why it is important to remember that not all things last forever.

He looks at Caitlin and looks down. They both look out into the mountains.
 

BRIAN: Do you know where Orla is?

Niamh looks at him disapprovingly.

NIAMH: It’s nice of you to say hi. (pause) I think she ran over to Kathleen’s.

BRIAN: Thanks, dear!

He kisses her on the cheek and runs out.

EXT: Kathleen’s. Orla has just exited the store and Brian walks up to her.

ORLA: Well hello Brian.

BRIAN: Hi, Orla. Do you know where I might be able to find your friend? I believe her name is Caitlin.

ORLA: Oh, right. I’m headed over to her house now, if you’d like to come along.

BRIAN: That’s quite all right. When you see her, make sure you tell her that I’d like to speak to her.

ORLA: Sure.

BRIAN: Thanks, Orla.

Brian then walks off to the pub. Orla shrugs her shoulders and walks down the lane.

INT: Aidan is following Caitlin around the house.

CAITLIN: As you see, there’s quite a bit of work to be done.

AIDAN: How are you going to do it?

CAITLIN: Oh, I’ll manage somehow.

AIDAN: If you need help, let me know.

There is a knock on the door.

CAITLIN: Come in!

Orla walks in with a bunch of flowers. She sees Aidan.

ORLA: Oh, I’m very sorry. I’ll come back…

AIDAN: No, it’s all right, Orla.

CAITLIN: Yes, come in.

She gives an awkward smile and hands the flowers to Caitlin.

ORLA: Sort of a house-warming gift, I guess.

Caitlin smells them.

CAITLIN: Thank you, Orla. They’re very lovely. Now if only I could find a vase… Excuse me while I sort through this mess.

Caitlin goes into the kitchen to find a container for the flowers. Orla and Aidan look at each other. Orla gives him a look, as if to say, “You’re in trouble now.” A few seconds later, Caitlin comes back with a pitcher and puts the flowers inside. She sets it down on the fireplace mantle.

ORLA: I just stopped by to see what you were doing tonight, Caitlin.

CAITLIN: Um, nothing at the moment. Do you have any suggestions?

ORLA: Well, we have missed the last ten years and I think we ought to catch up. How would dinner in Cilldargan sound?

CAITLIN: Sounds good.

AIDAN: Ladies, I hate to interrupt you, but I believe that Chez Aidan is open tonight.

ORLA: Oh yes, (getting the idea) that’s right… It is Aidan’s turn to cook tonight.

CAITLIN: I didn’t know you were a chef, Aidan. (mockingly)

ORLA: He learned a few things at the monastery.

CAITLIN: I see.

INT: Fitzgeralds. That night. Caitlin walks in to find Brian at the counter.

CAITLIN: Hello, Brian.

BRIAN: There you are, Ms. Mulcahy…

CAITLIN: If I get to call you Brian, I insist on you calling me Caitlin.

BRIAN: As you wish. I was looking for you earlier.

CAITLIN: Oh?

BRIAN: Would you be interested in having dinner with me tomorrow night?

Caitlin is obviously surprised.

CAITLIN: I don’t know what to say…

BRIAN: I could show you around Cilldargan. After a while, Ballykissangel just isn’t lively enough.

CAITLIN: Um, I’m afraid I don’t know any places in Cilldargan.

BRIAN: Oh I know a lovely Italian restaurant there.

CAITLIN: Well…I suppose…

BRIAN: Excellent. I’ll pick you up around six?

CAITLIN: Um, sure.

Caitlin, still a little surprised, seems puzzled. She turns to go, but then realizes that she forgot something and turns back to the bar.

CAITLIN: Before I go, I was wondering if I could pick up a bottle of white wine.

BRIAN: Certainly.

He turns and grabs a bottle. She places a bill on the counter.

BRIAN: Are you going to drink that all by yourself?

CAITLIN: Oh, no. Heaven knows I don’t drink.

BRIAN: You choose to live in Ballykissangel, and you don’t drink? That’s interesting.

He hands her the bottle.

CAITLIN: Thanks. Well I best be getting on my way, then.

BRIAN: Good-bye, then.

INT: The priest house. Caitlin places the bottle down on the dining table as Aidan is stirring something in a pot. Orla is cutting some vegetables up.

AIDAN: It’ll just be a few minutes.

CAITLIN: It smells great. Is there anything I can do?

ORLA: You can grab some herbs from the garden.

CAITLIN: Sure.

She leaves the kitchen.

ORLA: Aidan, you and I need to talk.

AIDAN: What is there to talk about? I’m not sure I understand you…

ORLA: You know what I’m talking about.

AIDAN: If it’s about…

Caitlin returns with some herbs and places them on the counter.

CAITLIN: It is a very nice garden.

ORLA: Gardening is a priestly pursuit, is it not?

AIDAN: Certainly. I guess you could say that work is good for the mind and body.

Orla is busy garnishing the dishes with the herbs and places them on the table, which has already been set.

CAITLIN: Looks great.

ORLA: I don’t know how we managed to cook without fighting. We always used to get into arguments in the kitchen, remember? Then Mum would kick us out.

AIDAN: Those were the days, weren’t they?

CAITLIN: I think you two deserve a hand.

She claps as Orla takes a bow. She grabs Aidan’s hand and forces him to bow. Laughing, she sits down.

ORLA: Let’s eat.

A few minutes later.

AIDAN: So where have you been these past few years?

CAITLIN: Oh, here and there.

ORLA: You did go to Cambridge, right?

Aidan looks up for Caitlin’s answer.

CAITLIN: Yes, I graduated from there and then went to London to co-found a computer firm.

ORLA: How interesting.

AIDAN: Well you worked for a number of years, I’m assuming.

CAITLIN: I was lucky that the firm was very successful, so I was able to retire after a few years.

ORLA: Wow, I’m very impressed. The next thing you’re going to tell me is that you have a house on your private island or something (jokingly).

CAITLIN: Well, I do have a house. But it’s in the Virgin Islands - not my own private island.

Caitlin seems uncomfortable mentioning anything having to do with her wealth. Orla laughs.

AIDAN: Wait until everyone hears. We’ve got our own Ballykissangel millionaire right here!

ORLA: Just make sure you don’t let Brian Quigley know.

CAITLIN: Why?

ORLA: Oh, he’s a ruthless businessman. He’s got little pound signs in his eyes.

CAITLIN: He seems like a very nice man to me. He asked me to dinner tomorrow night.

Aidan looks up from his food.

AIDAN: Brian Quigley asked you out on a date?

CAITLIN: Yes - strange, isn’t it? I mean, I hardly got here.

ORLA: Well he doesn’t know about your little fortune, so I doubt he’s after your money. You’ll have a good time with him.

AIDAN: Oh boy.

CAITLIN: What?

AIDAN: I can forsee some problems.

ORLA: Oh, you mean Niamh.

CAITLIN: Niamh?

ORLA: She’s Brian’s daughter.

CAITLIN: Oh, goodness. Do you think she’ll be upset?

AIDAN: It’s hard to say.

ORLA: I think she’ll be all right with the idea.

CAITLIN: Maybe I shouldn’t…

ORLA: No, don’t worry. Just have a good time.

INT: Fitzgerald’s. Brian has just broke the news to Niamh about his plans to take Caitlin out.

NIAMH: What do you mean, dinner?

BRIAN: We’re having dinner in Cilldargan tomorrow night.

NIAMH: Is this a date?

BRIAN: Well I suppose you could call it that.

NIAMH: I don’t believe you… She’s half your age, Dad!

BRIAN: Oh, Niamh. It’s not like we’re getting married. We’re simply having dinner.

NIAMH: I don’t like the way this sounds. What will everyone think?

BRIAN: Niamh, since when have I cared what people in Ballykay think?

INT: The priest house. Dinner has just been finished and Aidan is washing the dishes. Orla and Caitlin are in the living room, chatting.

ORLA: So I thought that Madrid was the nicest.

CAITLIN: Really? I’m surprised. I loved Paris - what is there not to love about Paris? - but I definitely think that Hong Kong suited me the best.

ORLA: You have really been up to so much. I mean, I thought I travelled far.

CAITLIN: It was really an amusement for me. I was bored with my life.

ORLA: What made you settle down here?

CAITLIN: I got tired. Too much jet lag. Besides, Ireland is the perfect place to paint and photograph landscapes. You don’t get any view like it.

ORLA: That I will agree with you.

The water has stopped running and Aidan comes out, drying his hands.

AIDAN: Well, ladies I hope you have enjoyed your meal.

CAITLIN: My compliments to the chef!

She looks down at her watch.

CAITLIN: Oh, it’s getting late. I had better get going.

AIDAN: Would you like me to walk you home? It’s kind of dark outside.

CAITLIN: That’s very kind of you, but I drove. I shall be all right.

ORLA: Aidan, she lived out of a backpack in Tibet for a month. I’m sure she can handle Ballykissangel.

AIDAN: Tibet?

CAITLIN: Yes. Oh, Aidan, you should have been there.

Aidan mutters under his breath, “I should have.”

CAITLIN: It was beautiful. And the people there are so spiritual. It was the most amazing experience.

ORLA: And she’s a Buddhist, Aidan! Imagine that!

AIDAN: What?

CAITLIN: I converted when I was there.

ORLA: I think that’s just great! I would have converted to Islam if not for Aidan. I knew he would have thrown a fit.

Caitlin laughs.

CAITLIN: Yes, I’m sure he would (in a sad way). Well, I’m off. I hope I shall see you two around.

She walks out.

ORLA: Well you were very talkative tonight.

AIDAN: She hasn’t changed, has she?

ORLA: Not in the slightest. Except I didn’t know her that well. You did.

Aidan sits down and Orla grabs the chair across from him. She has a glass of wine in her hand.

ORLA: Don’t pretend I don’t know, Aidan.

AIDAN: What?

ORLA: I didn’t know her well, but I remember you two were particularly close.

AIDAN: We were.

ORLA: Oh, come on! Spill it. I want to know what happened.

AIDAN: Nothing happened. I don’t know what you’re referring to.

ORLA: But it is nice having her in Ballyk, isn’t it?

AIDAN: That I will not disagree with.

ORLA: You seem very fond of her.

AIDAN: I am. She was a good friend of mine. When Mum and Dad died, she was always there for me. I’ll never forget her kindness.

ORLA: There’s more than that, I think.

She stands up and gets ready to leave. Aidan doesn’t seem to know what she is talking about.

ORLA: If you don’t want to talk, I understand. I will get to the bottom of this, Aidan O’Connell.

She leaves. Aidan is sitting on the sofa, puzzled.
 

ORLA: Hey, do you need any help?

CAITLIN: That would be great, thanks.

ORLA: So you’re still in Ballyk.

CAITLIN: Well I’m packing my bags anytime soon.

She and Orla open up the boxes of china and carefully arrange them on the floor.

ORLA: This is beautiful china.

CAITLIN: Thanks. It’s from England.

ORLA: I’m still amazed by the fact you chose to move here. Of all places. It’s a bit coincidental.

CAITLIN: Coincidental?

ORLA: Yeah, you know, the fact that Aidan and I are living here and you just moved in. A bit of a coincidence, don’t you think?

CAITLIN: I suppose I never really thought about it.

Orla stops and thinks.

ORLA: I was under the impression that you moved her because of Aidan.

CAITLIN: No, not at all. I mean, it’s great seeing him again, but I inherited this house, so I would have had a connection to it anyway.

ORLA: I got you.

CAITLIN: Why did you think I moved here? Because of Aidan?

ORLA: I don’t know. You two were very close.

CAITLIN: We were…but anything between us is impossible, for obvious reasons.

ORLA: Well, not entirely impossible.

CAITLIN: I suppose there’s a slight possibility, but it’s highly unlikely.

ORLA: You never know with the way the church works these days.

CAITLIN: I guess you’re right.

ORLA: But what if it was possible?

CAITLIN: Orla, what are you talking about? There’s no possibility. Besides, I haven’t seen him in ten years. I don’t know how I feel about anything.

ORLA: I see what you’re saying. Um, I think I’m needed at Fitzgerald’s. I’ll see you, Caitlin.

CAITLIN: Thanks for your help, Orla!

Orla jumps up and runs out. Caitlin stands up and watches her.

EXT: Caitlin’s house. Orla is walking down the path from the house into town.

ORLA: Well, I think that the two of them need a little help…

Orla is thinking as she walks into Ballyk.

INT: St. Joseph’s. Father Aidan is cleaning some of the church benches. Orla runs in breathless. Aidan sees her and gets up.

AIDAN: Orla, what is the matter? Are you all right?

ORLA: I’m all right. It’s Caitlin!

AIDAN: What? What are you talking about?

He puts his rag on the pew and stands up.

ORLA: She was on a ladder and she fell down.

Aidan is very concerned.

AIDAN: Is she all right?

ORLA: I think so. She’s a bit dizzy though.

AIDAN: I’d better get Dr. Ryan over there now.

Orla thinks.

ORLA: No, no, she’s fine. She’ll be all right.

AIDAN: Are you sure?

Orla nods her head, hoping her brother will be more concerned than he shows.

AIDAN: I’m worried now. I’d better go over there.

ORLA: Maybe…

Aidan runs out of the church and down the street.

ORLA: That should do it…

INT: Caitlin’s house. Caitlin is just finished with unpacking. Aidan runs inside, breathless.

AIDAN: Are you all right?

CAITLIN: I’m fine, thank you.

Aidan looks confused.

AIDAN: Are you still dizzy?

CAITLIN: Dizzy?

AIDAN: You fell off the ladder, right?

CAITLIN: Ladder? I don’t have a ladder here…

They both look extremely confused.

AIDAN: Orla told me that you feel off a ladder and you were dizzy. I ran over here to make sure you were all right.

CAITLIN: No, I didn’t fall off a ladder. I’m perfectly fine.

AIDAN: What is Orla up to?

CAITLIN: I don’t have the faintest idea.

AIDAN: This is all very confusing.

CAITLIN: Would you like something to drink? You look a bit worn out.

AIDAN: Oh, no thank you. I’ve got to get ready for a church fundraiser tomorrow night.

CAITLIN: Oh, what kind of fundraiser?

AIDAN: Father Mac and I thought of having a sort of dance.

Caitlin laughs.

CAITLIN: What’s a sort of dance?

AIDAN: Um, you know, record players, phonographs…

CAITLIN: People still have those?

AIDAN: I think they’re Father Mac’s.

She laughs again.

CAITLIN: I see.

AIDAN: It would great if you could come. We’re trying to get the support of the community.

CAITLIN: If it’s for your church, I’ll be there. I can get there early and help you set up.

AIDAN: Sure.

CAITLIN: Okay.

There is a moment of silence. Neither know what to say next.

AIDAN: Well, then…

CAITLIN: I’ll see you…

Aidan walks out. As he does, he turns around.

AIDAN: By the way, it’s sort of “dress to impress.”

CAITLIN: Right.

AIDAN: Well, good-bye then.

CAITLIN: Bye!
 

CAITLIN: Hello, Brian.

He hands her a bouquet of flowers.

CAITLIN: Thank you. They’re lovely.

She takes them and places them in an empty pitcher.

BRIAN: Are you sure you’re going to wear that?

CAITLIN: What’s wrong with my outfit?

BRIAN: Um, we’re going to a fancy restaurant.

CAITLIN: Oh. I see what you mean. Excuse me. Give me, like, five minutes.

BRIAN: Take all the time you need.

She runs upstairs as Brian stands in the living room, surveying the boxes. There is one open box. He checks to make sure she is not coming down the stairs and peeks inside. There is a framed picture of her standing on a beach. The next framed picture is of her with an award at some kind of awards ceremony. Brian stands there, thinking. A few minutes later, Caitlin comes out in a black sleeveless dress. She has no makeup or jewellry on.

CAITLIN: I’m sorry I look sort of plain. I’m not really one to dress up.

BRIAN: Oh, you look stunning.

Caitlin smiles. They leave the house and get into Brian’s Range Rover.

BRIAN: So I saw your lovely Range Rover.

CAITLIN: It’s just a car.

BRIAN: Still. These things are very expensive nowadays.

CAITLIN: Oh, it’s nothing, really.

Brian wonders at her ease with money.

INT: A Cilldargan restaurant. They are halfway into their dinner.

BRIAN: So tell me, how did you acquire the house? It is certainly a nice property.

CAITLIN: I inherited it from my grandmother.

BRIAN: It’s interesting that a young, lively lady such as yourself should settle in a small quiet town.

CAITLIN: I was tired of travelling.

BRIAN: You’ve travelled?

CAITLIN: Yes. I own some properties here and abroad.

BRIAN: And you naturally like to spend time on them.

CAITLIN: Of course.

BRIAN: I’ll be honest with you. I spotted a photo of you on an island in one of your boxes. It looked beautiful and I was wondering if you could tell me what island is was.

CAITLIN: Oh that must have been when I was in the Virgin Islands.

BRIAN: Oh? You’ve been there?

CAITLIN: I own a house there.

BRIAN: Do you…?

CAITLIN: Listen, I’d rather not talk about property and houses, if you mind.

BRIAN: I’m sorry. What would you like to talk about?

CAITLIN: Well, for one, what is an active businessman like yourself doing in Ballykissangel?

BRIAN: I have lived here forever. It’s my home. Well, I’d rather not talk about me.

There is a pause.

CAITLIN: How is Father Aidan adjusting to life in Ballykissangel?

BRIAN: Father Aidan?

He is surprised.

CAITLIN: I’m just curious.

BRIAN: Well I suppose he’s doing fine. I don’t really know him intimately. Do you?

CAITLIN: Yes. I’ve known him since he was in nappies, really.

BRIAN: Is that right?

CAITLIN: When his parents died, my family sort of, well, we didn’t really “adopt” Aidan and Orla, but they were always welcome at our house for dinner, that sort of thing.

BRIAN: That’s very interesting.

CAITLIN: I haven’t seen him ten years.

BRIAN: Is that so?

CAITLIN: Yes. I went off to University and I never heard from him.

BRIAN: It’s nice to be reunited with friends.

CAITLIN: Yes, it is.

INT: Later that evening. They have walked into Fitzgerald’s. Surprisingly, it is a packed house. Aidan is sitting at the table, talking to Liam and Donal.

ORLA: Well, you two, how was your date?

CAITLIN: It was fine.

BRIAN: This friend of yours, Orla, is a terrific lady.

ORLA: I’ve known that for a long time!

Aidan looks up and watches the conversation.

BRIAN: I’ll take a whiskey. What would you like, Caitlin?

CAITLIN: I’ll just have an orange juice, Orla.

Orla hands them their drinks. Brian excuses himself and walks over to talk to Niamh. Caitlin takes a seat by the bar.

CAITLIN: It’s really a full house tonight, huh?

ORLA: It’s usually pretty busy at night. So…tell me everything!

CAITLIN: There’s really nothing to tell.

ORLA: Well where did you go?

CAITLIN: We went to this little Italian restaurant in Cilldargan. It was nice.

ORLA: Nice?

CAITLIN: Yes, nice.

Orla gives her a look. Caitlin looks to see if Brian is around and leans forward.

CAITLIN: He kept asking me about my house, and the properties that I own.

ORLA: I knew it!

CAITLIN: Well, I dropped the subject, but I made sure he knew that I had a house in the Virgin Islands.

Orla laughs.

ORLA: I’ve never know you to be deceiving.

CAITLIN: I’ve been around so many businessmen in the past that I know what they’re after when they want to take me out to dinner.

ORLA: Good for you!

CAITLIN: Well, I suppose I should be getting home now.

ORLA: It’s still early.

CAITLIN: I’m an early sleeper.

ORLA: Oh, you’re a party pooper!

CAITLIN: I know, I know.

She puts some change on the counter.

CAITLIN: Well, good-night.

ORLA: Night!

Caitlin gets up and walks towards the door. Orla looks over to Aidan frantically, motioning for him to walk her home. No one else seems to notice that he excuses himself from Liam and Donal and walks out the door. Caitlin is a few steps ahead of him and he catches up to her.

CAITLIN: Oh hi, Aidan. I didn’t see you inside.

AIDAN: I was talking to Liam and Donal in the corner. Are you cold? Take my sweater.

He drapes his grey sweater over her shoulders.

CAITLIN: Thanks.

AIDAN: How was your date with Brian?

CAITLIN: The usual. We talked about how rich I was.

Aidan looks confused.

CAITLIN: I’ve been out on lots of dates with businessmen whom I’ve worked with. They all ask the same kinds of questions. How many properties do I own? What am I worth?

AIDAN: Brian didn’t ask you that, did he?

CAITLIN: In not so many words.

AIDAN: I’m sorry.

CAITLIN: I thought living in a small town would eliminate the problem, but I seem to find wherever I go someone who is only interested in my wealth.

AIDAN: It’s a shame the people you meet can’t see past your money.

She wipes a tear from her eye as they stand at the bridge.

CAITLIN: I’ve given up, Aidan. A single woman with money can’t find an honest man anywhere.

AIDAN: That’s not true. I’m sure there are plenty men who would love to meet you.

CAITLIN: Don’t get me wrong. It’s not like I’ll die if I don’t meet anyone, but it’s nice to have someone, you know?

AIDAN: Yes. Loneliness is a problem for many people.

CAITLIN: I wouldn’t even say it was loneliness. I’d say that for me I’d just like someone to share all my secrets to without being worried that they would backstab me. In the business
world, Aidan, you wouldn’t believe how ruthless people are. They’re absolute sharks.

AIDAN: You managed to be successful without being ruthless.

CAITLIN: I’m of the rarest kind, I guess.

She sighs and they start walking to her house.

AIDAN: Don’t lose anxiety over it. You are a beautiful, intelligent, and compassionate woman. You’re bound to find something you’re looking for.

CAITLIN: Beautiful?

AIDAN: Yes, of course you are.

CAITLIN: (laughing) I don’t have any make up on. And my hair is atrocious. I’d say I look like a troll right now.

AIDAN: Don’t be ridiculous!

They reach her house.

AIDAN: You’re very beautiful…At least to me you are.

He realizes what he has said. Caitlin is silent. She is at the foot of her house’s path. She slowly takes off the sweater and hands it to him.

CAITLIN: Thanks for walking me home.

Aidan is silent.

CAITLIN: Good-night.

She turns and walks into the house. Aidan turns around and walks back, hands in his pockets.
 

EXT: Morning. Caitlin is jogging around town in bike shorts and a sports bra. Kathleen walks out of her store to see her. She runs over to St. Joseph’s. Aidan is making sure his signs on the church door are straight.

KATHLEEN: Father!

AIDAN: Yes, Kathleen.

KATHLEEN: There’s a new woman that moved to Ballyk and she’s running around in shorts and…well, inappropriate clothing!

AIDAN: Are you sure, Kathleen?

KATHLEEN: Yes! I’ve never seen such a thing! She’s practically nude!

Aidan knows that Kathleen has a tendency to exaggerate aside from being conservative.

AIDAN: I’ll be sure to check it out.

KATHLEEN: Father, I insist you look now!

They step onto the street and they can see Caitlin jogging across the bridge. She has a cassette player on. Kathleen and Aidan start to walk back to her shop.

KATHLEEN: If you won’t do something, I’ll tell Ambrose to arrest her.

AIDAN: There’s no need for that, Kathleen. She has her rights.

KATHLEEN: I heard she’s a Communist.

AIDAN: I can assure you that she is not.

KATHLEEN: Thank God for that.

AIDAN: It doesn’t seem to bother anyone else.

KATHLEEN: I shall be sure to mention this to Father Mac tonight.

AIDAN: Right.

Aidan walks back to St. Joseph’s.

EXT: Fitzgerald’s. Caitlin jogs past Brian’s car in front of Fitzgerald’s just as he steps out.

BRIAN: Good morning!

Caitlin stops and jogs in place.

CAITLIN: Hello, Brian.

Brian looks her up and down.

BRIAN: Getting a good workout?

CAITLIN: Yes.

BRIAN: Listen, would you like to…

CAITLIN: I know what you’re after, Brian.

BRIAN: What are you talking about?

CAITLIN: You’re not getting the house.

BRIAN: What?

CAITLIN: Brian, I’ve been around businessmen for the past ten years. Trust me, I know.

She jogs off. Brian stands there dumfounded.

INT: Night. The school auditorium. Aidan is arranging the refreshments. Caitlin comes in with a tray of cookies. She has a black silk dress with a sweater over it.

CAITLIN: Hi.

Aidan takes the tray.

AIDAN: Thank you for coming early. I appreciate the help.

CAITLIN: No problem.

There’s great awkwardness between them.

AIDAN: Do you think you could hang these balloons up?

CAITLIN: Sure.

She gets on the ladder and starts to tape them to the walls.

CAITLIN: So how many people are coming?

AIDAN: I’m not sure. I made Orla come.

Caitlin smiles. She continues to hang up balloons. Aidan finishes with the refreshments.

AIDAN: Caitlin, what I said last night…

Caitlin looks down.

AIDAN: I meant it.

CAITLIN: I know.

AIDAN: If I wasn’t…

Just then, Kathleen comes in with some records.

KATHLEEN: Hello Father Aidan.

AIDAN: Hello Kathleen. Kathleen, this is Caitlin Mulcahy.

Kathleen doesn’t say anything for she recognizes her as the jogger. Caitlin comes down and offers a handshake. Aidan signals her not to worry about it. Aidan and Kathleen walk off to the record player. Orla sticks her head in and motions for Caitlin to go out into the hall.

CAITLIN: What do you have there?

ORLA: I’m going to liven up this dance with some of this music.

She hands her some dance music CDs. Caitlin smiles.

CAITLIN: I’m sure this will go off well with the churchgoers.

ORLA: Forget churchgoers! I got everyone at Fitzgerald’s to come down.

CAITLIN: You’re amazing.

ORLA: I just have to find a way to get this in here.

CAITLIN: Just bring it in and say that it’s for back up. You know, in case the old record players break down.

They walk back into the auditorium.

INT: A few hours later. Everyone from Ballyk and a few from the surrounding communities are there. Father Mac is chatting with Kathleen and Father Aidan. Caitlin is talking to Niamh and Ambrose. Orla is getting something to drink. She walks over to Caitlin and whispers something in her ear.

ORLA: I think it’s time.

CAITLIN: Right.

Caitlin walks over to the record player and shuts it off. People dancing stop and look around. She turns on the CD players and puts in a CD. Meanwhile, Orla is making an announcement at the microphone on the stage.

ORLA: I think it’s a good time to reflect upon music of the past, but I also think that we have to look to the future. Let’s hear some of today’s music, huh?

Caitlin puts the music on. It’s dance music and more people get up to dance, including a lot of Ballyk’s teens. Father Mac and Kathleen look appalled.

FRANK: Father, what is the meaning of this?

AIDAN: Excuse me.

Aidan runs over to where Orla and Caitlin are standing by the CD player.

AIDAN: Orla, what was that?

ORLA: Come on, bro, people do not want to hear the old stuff.

AIDAN: Father Mac is very upset.

ORLA: It’s time you run your church the way you want.

AIDAN: It’s not my church…

Brian comes over and asks Caitlin to dance. Surprised, she agrees.

BRIAN: I’m sorry.

CAITLIN: For what?

BRIAN: Only thinking of your house when I asked you to dinner.

CAITLIN: I appreciate your honesty.

BRIAN: I promise you I won’t ask about the house anymore. You’re straightforward and I could use a business partner like you…

CAITLIN: No thanks. I’m retired.

BRIAN: Well let us at least be friends.

CAITLIN: I think that could work.

They both smile and dance. Caitlin can obviously dance, but Brian looks a bit of a fool dancing to ultra modern music.

INT: A few hours later. Father Mac, Kathleen, and everyone else have left. Caitlin is helping Aidan clean up.

AIDAN: Well it was a great success. Father Mac lightened up a bit at the end.

CAITLIN: Congratulations.

AIDAN: Thank you for your help. It showed your generosity despite your not being a parishioner.

CAITLIN: To me, religions are all the same. They give people something to believe in.

AIDAN: I suppose you could say that… I saw you dancing with Brian.

CAITLIN: Yes. I sent him the message that there was nothing between us. He actually apologized to me for being so shallow.

AIDAN: That’s good.

CAITLIN: Why weren’t you dancing? You can’t say the music was bad…well, except for Kathleen’s old records.

AIDAN: Well…I’m not much of a dancer.

CAITLIN: Come on!

She walks over to the record player and puts it on. It is a waltz in the Irish style. She walks over to Aidan and places her hand on his shoulder and waist.

CAITLIN: They didn’t teach you how to dance at the monastery?

AIDAN: I’m afraid not.

She proceeds to teach him where to place his hands, etc.

CAITLIN: I’ll be you and you be me.

AIDAN: I’m confused.

Caitlin laughs.

CAITLIN: Just follow my lead.

They dance a little bit. Aidan catches on quickly and soon takes the lead. He is spinning her around and she is laughing.

CAITLIN: I thought you said you didn’t know how to dance.

AIDAN: I lied.

Just then, a slow song comes on. They dance silently. Caitlin slowly puts her head on Aidan’s shoulder.

CAITLIN: I’ve missed my best friend.

AIDAN: So have I.

The scene cuts away as the theme music plays.