Opening scene - The Bait Shop, night - the first thing we see is a close up of a 2 drinks with straws in them. the camera pans up to show that Summer is drinking one of them, we can hear the sucking sound. the shot changes and we see that Ryan, Marissa and Seth are also there. they are all sitting at the bar in a row. Ryan, Marissa and Seth watch Summer as she noisily sucks her glass dry

Summer: (swallows) aah, who's ready for another faux-hito

Marissa: I think I kinda hit a wall on the mocktails (raises eyebrows) besides it's a school night

Summer: no but it's not a school night (sadly) it's our last night before our last semester of our last year of high school, so we have'ta make it...last (frowns)

Seth: its hard to argue with that logic

(Summer raises her eyebrows at Seth and Seth makes a face at Summer. it's meant to be scary but I think it just looks cute!)

Marissa: you guys (smiles) this has been a really fun winter break

(Seth smiles sentimentally, agreeing with Marissa)

Marissa: just the four of us (nudges Seth with elbow and then Ryan) hangin out like old times

Ryan: yeah I can't believe it's gone by so fast

Summer: I wish I could like Tivo it so we could play it over an over again until graduation

Seth: well unfortunately after tonight its back to regularly scheduled programming

Marissa: (sadly, with chin resting on her hand) for you guys (unenthusiastically) I gotta go back to Newport Union by myself

(we see close-ups of Summer and Ryan looking at Marissa)

Marissa: I gotta pee (to Summer) you gotta pee

Summer: no, not really

Seth: I gotta pee (looks at Summer)

Summer: kay

Seth: screw it, ill go get us some drinks first

(Seth and Marissa walk off leaving Summer and Ryan sitting together at opposite ends)

Summer: (thinks, looks at Ryan) what if it doesn't have'ta end

Ryan: what, winter break

Summer: no, the four of us being together (Ryan frowns) its a new year but its our last chance, senior photos are this Friday, the Harbor class'a 2006 will be immortalised in the yearbook (raises eyebrows) for like all time, Marissa has'ta be part'a that picture

Ryan: are you saying what I think your saying (looks at Summer)

Summer: yes, the dirty dean he's gone, right, an Dr Kim she's always seemed pretty reasonable

Ryan: yeah but the board kicked out Marissa not Dr Kim, plus there's all those concerned parents

Summer: whatever, out of sight outta mind (Ryan looks at her) time heals all wounds (Ryan frowns) you love something set it...free- (Ryan frowns) no, maybe they're over it!

Ryan: yeah, this towns real forgiving (Summer looks at him and holds her hands out)

(Seth comes back)

Seth: they were all out of faux-hitos so I got us a couple'a fake manhattans an a safe sex on the beach

Summer: but Ryan (Seth sits) what if the four of us can all finish senior year together

Ryan: (to Seth) uh Summers planning operation "Free Marissa"

Seth: ooh

Summer: yeah secure some key allies, go behind enemy lines

Seth: you been watchin the war channel again

Summer: (matter of factly) yes it's the new food network

Seth: I'm always up for a little danger an intrigue (looks at Ryan)

Summer: see (points)

Ryan: you guys (raises eyebrows) seriously wanna do this

(Summer grins and Seth shrugs with a "why not" expression)

Ryan: (sighs) ok, alright (Summer claps happily) but we don't tell Marissa until we have a plan

Summer: cheers (holds out drink) to getting Marissa back to where she belongs

(Ryan, Seth and Summer clink glasses)

Seth: (frowns) anyone have an idea how we do that

(we see close-ups of Summer and Ryan's clueless expressions)

Theme song - California by Phantom Planet

Harbor school, next morning - we see kids walking around outside. in the distance there is a maroon banner that reads Senior Class and then underneath that in big white writing is PHOTO, there is also writing in the corners but we cant read it. Seth and Summer are walking up the stairs together

Summer: I cannot believe it is our last semester of high school

Seth: I know, college applications have been sent off, studying, homework, learning, all the reasons to come here are pretty much irrelevant

Summer: well good with all your free time you can help out with "Free Marissa"

Seth: an to what exactly are we freeing her from

Summer: um exile to public school, year of solitude, ill fitting gym shorts, mediocre lunches, hey there's Ryan

(Ryan comes down the stairs just up ahead of Seth and Summer)

Ryan: hey (sighs) can't talk got an appointment with Dr Kim

Summer: what're ya gonna say

Ryan: (walks backwards) jus gonna come right out an ask (Seth raises his eyebrows)

Summer: alright, direct approach I like it (calls) good luck

(Seth and Summer keep walking)

Summer: excellent, prong one of the campaign has been initiated (points) you an I will take on prong two, grass roots ?, you know information booth, petition maybe a protest rally

Seth: (looks at Summer) how many prongs are involved in this operation

Summer: dude, like soo many prongs

(we are now in Dr Kim's office. Ryan knocks)

Dr Kim: (looks over) Ryan, come on in, what can I do for you

Ryan: Dr Kim sorry I'm late, actually I wanted to talk to you about Marissa Cooper

Dr Kim: oh, how's she doing over at Union

Ryan: good, good uh as good as can be expected um actually I was wondering if you might consider reinstating her this semester

Dr Kim: Ryan I-

Ryan: cause her grades are good, she hasn't been in any trouble

Dr Kim: (hands Ryan books to hold) Ryan I understand Marissa's expulsion seemed terribly unfair to you, an frankly I wish the outcome had been different myself

Ryan: would you consider letting her reapply

Dr Kim: even if I wanted to only the board of trustees has the power to readmit an expelled student (starts to leave)

Ryan: (follows) ok great, could we meet with them

Dr Kim: there meeting on Thursday ta discuss the new semester (frowns) its a little late...but (looks at Ryan) uh, I could probably get Marissa's case put on the docket

Ryan: that would be great

Dr Kim: Ryan, you'll be fighting an uphill battle

Ryan: (raises eyebrows) yeah, wouldn't be the first time

Dr Kim: they rarely reverse their decisions on anything

Ryan: all we need is a chance

Dr Kim: students are not allowed to speak at board meetings, you'll need a parent advocate

Ryan: I think I know someone who'd be right for the job (Dr Kim nods) thankyou Dr Kim (hands back books)

Dr Kim: you might wanna check the library for transcripts of old meetings there might be a precedent, say, fall semester in nineteen ninety six

(Dr Kim walks away and Ryan looks as though he's thinking)

CUT TO: Newport Union - Marissa is at her locker and as she starts walking away Johnny goes over

Johnny: hey Marissa

Marissa: (smiles) Johnny, hey

(Johnny holds his arms out and Marissa hugs him)

Marissa: how was your break, I feel like I haven't seen you in forever

Johnny: uh you know jus been layin low since the operation, I've already started physical therapy

Marissa: that's great

Johnny: thanks, what'a you been up to

Marissa: um (raises eyebrows) I don't know jus hangin out with Seth an Summer, Ryan doing nothing, its kinda great actually (smiles)

Johnny: (laughs) well look um if you've still got nothin to do there's this...thing that I want you to go to with me

Marissa: uh, ok, m what kinda thing

(Marissa and Johnny are now walking)

Johnny: um, it's a party actually, see PacWest is doing this big press event for their 2006 surf team on Thursday

Marissa: (looks at Johnny) w- the PacWest surf team

Johnny: coach called last night asking how the surgery went, it turns out one'a their guys failed the drug test so, I got an alternate spot on the team (Marissa smiles) I can do my physio on the road an hopefully compete by summer (smiles)

Marissa: wow, that's amazing Johnny

Johnny: thanks, um we're only allowed to bring one guest to the party so (Marissa looks at him) what'do you say (unsure)

Marissa: oh well, I mean shouldn't you take your mom or I don't know one of your entourage, I'm sure Chili's dying ta go

Johnny: no I want you to go (Marissa looks down) I mean, none'a this would be happening if it weren't for you

(Marissa looks at Johnny, Johnny looks at Marissa hopeful)

Marissa: alright then I wouldn't miss it (Johnny smiles) hey (hugs Johnny) I'm really happy for you Johnny

Johnny: (smiles) thanks

CUT TO: NB Yacht Club - Kirsten and Julie are sitting at a table together

Kirsten: first meeting of a brand new year

Julie: of a brand new enterprise (Kirsten smiles)

Kirsten: let's dig in

Julie: ok

Kirsten: (looks at papers) divorced, divorced, separated, divorced, I didn't know there were so many broken marriages in this town it's an epidemic

Julie: speaking of which

(we see that Julie noticed Neil come in)

Kirsten: (looks over) (softly) Dr Roberts is getting a divorce

Julie: shh, you didn't hear it from me, I'm gonna go say hi, he's been so good to Marissa (stands)

(Julie walks over to Neil who is sitting at the bar)

Julie: hey Neil how are you

Neil: hey, Julie (takes off glasses) well Happy New Year

Julie: should old acquaintance be forgot

Neil: well I don't think that you're in much danger of being old or forgot any time soon (laughs)

Julie: your too sweet (smiles) I never properly thanked you for having me over for Christmas dinner

Neil: well it's a pleasure, took the focus off of Gloria's conspicuous absence

Julie: ah, you haven't told Summer about...your separation

Neil: no, she thinks that Gloria didn't call because she's in some zen retreat

Julie: an Marissa thinks I'm supervising the longest condo renovation in history (smiles)

Neil: (nods, smiles) I feel a couple'a New Years resolutions comin on

(Julie screws up her face at the thought)

CUT TO: Harbor school - Summer and Seth are in the student lounge together

Summer: if we're gonna launch a successful campaign to get Marissa back inta Harbor we have'ta find someone who could organise the masses (looks at Seth) someone who they'll follow um you know inta battle

Seth: you mean General Townsend (motions with his head)

(we see that Taylor is sitting at a table with Madison and Ashley who we've seen a few times before)

Summer: (looks at Seth) affirmative (Seth smiles)

(Summer and Seth walk over to Taylor)

Summer: hey, Taylor, hi Mad hey Ash

Seth: Mad Ash (smiles)

Taylor: Summer Seth hi um I le-I left you guys a message about my Boxing Day party

(Seth looks at Summer. Summer has her mouth wide open)

Taylor: I guess you (shakes head) uh you didn't get it though but like how was your break, awesome

Seth: (nods) yes, so awesome (points) in fact that we need your help with something

Taylor: oh, you want my help (points to herself) whatever you need I'm there for you a hundred an ten percent

Summer: oh cool cause uh we're launching a campaign

Taylor: I love campaigns

Summer: to get Marissa back inta Harbor

(Madison and Ashley look at each other)

Taylor: (stunned) oh, wow that's (points) aggressive (looks at Summer) are you serious

Summer: Taylor, who out of our group (Taylor looks at her) would be better than you at winning over the hearts an minds of the student body (raises eyebrows) (Seth grins)

Taylor: did you say our group

Seth: great so you'll do it (points)

Taylor: (smiles) it's an honour to share your fox hole (holds out hand)

(Madison and Ashley look at each other in disbelief. Seth shakes Taylor's hand)

Summer: ok so we're going in front of the trustees on Thursday (Taylor picks up a pen & finds a blank page) so I was thinking maybe you could like go home tonight an brainstorm (frowns) we could go over the plan at (raises eyebrows) o eight hundred

Taylor: (enthusiastically) sounds good

Summer: thanks friend (Seth waves) bye

(Taylor gives Seth and Summer a salute as they leave then smiles happily as she writes)

Ashley: oh my god (leans forward) Taylor (Talyor looks at her) Marissa Cooper is like your number one rival I mean if she gets back inta Harbor she'll like totally socially crush you

Taylor: (laughs) grow up Ashley that is so last semester

Madison: I...hate to be the one ta burst your popularity bubble but isn't your mom still head of the parents association

Taylor: so

Madison: soooo she's the one who started the petition to get Marissa kicked out in the first place

Taylor: (not phased) also last semester (writes some more) I'm sure she's totally over it

Ashley: your mom, over it

(Ashley and Madison look at each other mouth "not" and shake their heads. Taylor is starting to look worried now)

CUT TO: Newport Group - Sandy walks into his office followed by Ryan

Ryan: and in nineteen ninety six the board voted to reinstate a kid due to extenuating circumstances after he threatened another student with a knife

Sandy: (looks at Ryan, impressed) you've done your homework

Ryan: so that's precedent right

Sandy: yeah, but a precedent is just a small piece of a bigger puzzle (sits at his desk) (shakes head) it...doesn't guarantee anything

Ryan: look, if your sayin we don't have a case then uh that's fine I get it but, if this is because (sits) you don't want Marissa an me goin to the same school...I promise you things are different now (looks at Sandy)

Sandy: (looks at Ryan, leans forward) you have a shot, but it's a long one

Ryan: ok, we need a parent advocate to address the board, would you

Sandy: a good cause, poor odds, a chance to ruffle some Newpsie feathers (shrugs) how could I say no, who's the chairman this year

Ryan: uh (reads) guy named Mercer

Sandy: (sits forward) Jim Mercer

Ryan: yeah, you know him

Sandy: yeah he's a judge, I've argued before him many times

Ryan: hm an that's a good thing right

Sandy: well he's what they call a hanging judge (Ryan nods) he's a real hard ass (reassuringly) jus means we'll have'ta present a really good case that's all

Ryan: great (thinks) now all we gotta do is

CUT TO: Roberts' house - Marissa and Ryan are in the living room together

Ryan: cross your fingers because it is all handled, any luck you'll be back at Harbor by Friday morning

(Marissa blinks, speechless)

Ryan: is that the uh good kind of speechless or the-the bad kind

Marissa: (raises eyebrows) uh g-good kind (Ryan smiles) I just- wow could it really happen

Ryan: well it's not a sure thing but yeah (touches Marissa's leg) look I know that you jus got settled at Union you've made a few friends, if your happy where you are I don't wanna mess that up

Marissa: no are you kidding (leans forward) id love to finish high school with you guys

Ryan: alright, I'm gonna go grab dinner, check in with Sandy an I will call - you later (kisses Marissa)

(Ryan starts to leave)

Marissa: hey when's the meeting

Ryan: uhh Thursday

Marissa: uh this Thursday

Ryan: yeah, that alright

Marissa: yeah...

(we hear the sound of the door opening as Ryan leaves. Marissa looks unsure)

CUT TO: Summers bedroom - we see a close up of the laptop screen and on it is a graphics program with a t-shirt shape up on the screen. it is black with FREE then a head shot of Marissa underneath and then MARISSA underneath that. {fyi you can actually now buy this shirt in the OCI shop if you are an OCI'er. I cannot wait to see what it looks like in person} the camera zooms out to show that Summer is using the laptop and Marissa comes in

Marissa: hey

Summer: (quickly shuts laptop) hey did you talk to Ryan

Marissa: yeah (sits)

Summer: not exactly the triumphant enthusiasm I was expecting

Marissa: I'm sorry, I really do appreciate everything you guys'a been doing

Summer: (closes eyes) but

Marissa: but does anyone even want me back at Harbor

Summer: what other than your three best friends

Marissa: well what if it doesn't work

Summer: it's gonna work

Marissa: ...an the meeting is this Thursday

Summer: (folds arms) Coop what is going on

Marissa: well its jus that PacWest is announcing Johnny as an alternate on their team that night (Summer frowns) an...I kinda promised him id be there (shrugs)

Summer: mm (nods) well that's really nice of you, but your jus gonna have'ta cancel (smiles) sorry (hands Marissa phone) he'll be happy for you

(Summer leaves and Marissa reluctantly starts to dial, after three numbers she stops and puts the phone down)

CUT TO: Cohen kitchen, next morning - Sandy is in there slicing a bagel and Kirsten walks in

Kirsten: the boys seem really excited about getting Marissa back inta Harbor, d'you think she has a chance

Sandy: well there's a good argument ta be made

(Ryan and Seth come in from outside carrying poster board and paint etc basically supplies for the campaign)

Ryan: morning

Sandy: morning

Kirsten: (notices) oooooh the boys have poster board an paint

(Seth and Ryan smile as if to say "yeah yeah" and Ryan grabs a bagel)

Sandy: I love student activism (smiles)

Ryan: yeah, did'you get a chance ta throw a call inta judge Mercer

(Kirsten goes to drink and stops when she hears that name)

Sandy: he's gonna be outta town till Wednesday, but I did speak to another trustee who assured me that we'll be given a fair chance to present Marissa's case

Ryan: alright, well uh let us know if there's anything more we can do (to Seth) we should get going

Seth: yeah Summer will kick our ass if we're late with our supply drop (Ryan waves)

Sandy: have fun

Seth: thankyou (waves)

(Ryan and Seth leave and Kirsten moves around the counter so she is facing Sandy)

Kirsten: (softly) this isn't the same judge Mercer that jailed you for contempt

Sandy: (nods) six hours in the slammer cause he didn't like my closing argument, an to this day I still don't understand what it is I said to the guy that-that that struck such a nerve

Kirsten: all I remember is that he hated you passionately (raises eyebrows) maybe he won't remember

Sandy: not likely, an he's not outta town, he's ignoring me, thinks anything a councilor has'ta say should be done on the record

Kirsten: oh come on its not like this is an actual trial

Sandy: tell that to judge Mercer (kisses Kirsten's cheek)

CUT TO: Newport Union - Johnny and Dennis are coming down the stairs. Johnny has papers in his hand

Dennis: I don't understand why do you need to see the PacWest doctor, why can't they just have your doctor send over your charts an stuff

Johnny: i dont know jus somethin ta do with their insurance, I'm sure its just standard stuff

(Marissa walks over when they are at the bottom of the stairs)

Marissa: hey guys

Dennis: hey

Marissa: (to Johnny) can I talk to you for a sec

Dennis: um if you want man I can give you a lift over to the doctors at lunch (to Marissa) if you want (points) I can give you a lift any time

(Johnny smiles and Dennis walks away)

Marissa: I thought you were done with all the doctor stuff

Johnny: yeah it's a routine post op thing it's no big deal

Marissa: ok

(Johnny is now at his locker)

Johnny: so what's up

Marissa: um...I uh I was gonna call you last night...I don't think I can make it to your party on Thursday

Johnny: your not sure or-

Marissa: no, no I can't, see there's this board meeting at my old school an (shrugs, frowns) I kinda have'ta be there cause there gonna decide whether or not I can (raises eyebrows) reapply this semester

Johnny: (looks at Marissa) your goin back to private school

Marissa: well I mean it's not a done deal...but uh yeah I'm gonna try

Johnny: oh that's great

Marissa: really, cause I was worried you might be upset

Johnny: why I mean I'm happy for you

Marissa: right (nods) course (smiles)

Johnny: anyway Chili will be stoked you know he was next in line for the party so (smiles)

Marissa: I'm really sorry

Johnny: you'll go to the next one (smiles)

Marissa: (nods, smiles) alright, ill see you later

(Marissa walks away and Johnny's smile goes, he looks crushed)

CUT TO: Harbor school - Taylor, Seth and Summer are walking outside together. Taylor is holding a huge sign that says MARISSA then underneath that COOPER then underneath that GRADUATES. Seth is holding flyers and Summer is holding a petition

Taylor: ok how many flyers do we have

Seth: four stacks of two hundred

Taylor: (nods) ok good I want one of those on every locker by lunch, you put the extras on bathroom stalls an mirrors um (points) any word on the t-shirts

Summer: uh Ryan's suppose'ta get them at lunch

Taylor: great I'm gonna put some pressure on my button guy an see if I can get em done at the same time (Summer nods)

Seth: uh-oh (points) fire in the hole

(Taylor looks where Seth is pointing and looks almost scared. we then see Veronica approaching them)

Veronica: Taylor

(Taylor stands in front of the sign trying to hide it)

Taylor: mom what're you doing here

Veronica: I just came from my pre board meeting

Summer: (frowns) Taylor's moms on the board

(Seth mouths "I don't know")

Veronica: do you know there's a motion on the docket to reinstate Marissa Cooper (pulls sign out from behind Taylor)

Taylor: ...yes

Seth: flyer (holds out "Free Marissa" flyer)

(Veronica takes the flyer from Seth and looks at it. it's the same design as what's on the shirts. Taylor looks at Summer and Seth. Veronica looks at Seth unimpressed)

Veronica: may I have a word with you (grabs Taylor's arm)

(Veronica pulls Taylor away and we see them talking while Veronica screws up the flyer. Seth and Summer watch)

Seth: I don't know what she's sayin but it can't be good

Summer: how dare you do this (we see Veronica speak this part at the same time) without talking to me (Seth looks at her) I can read lips, star magazine what the stars are really saying

Seth: oohh

Taylor: I'm helping my friend's mom

Veronica: Taylor you don't have any friends (Taylor looks down) which is one'a the reasons why I had Marissa Cooper-

Summer: (as Veronica mouths it) removed from the school in the first place

Seth: that's so demented (Summer looks at him)

(Veronica hands the screwed up flyer to Taylor and walks away angrily)

Seth: oh you dropped your-you dropped your (holds up flyer) your flyer

(Taylor slowly walks back over to Seth and Summer with her head down sadly)

Taylor: um (looks up) I cant help you guys anymore, sorry (walks away)

Summer: Taylor (worried, frowns)

Seth: I guess that means no button guy (disappointed)

Summer: (annoyed) oh Seth (nudges Seth)

Seth: I jus wanted to meet the button guy

CUT TO: Newport Group - we see a close up of a newspaper article that has the heading "Harbor Student Questioned in Shooting" we can hear Matt on the phone

Matt: (on the phone) well I'm lookin at a count sheet that puts the property value at twelve, yeah I'm meetin with him right now (Sandy looks at him) ok ill call you back in twenty (sits) so, I say we put a cash bid on the orbina buildng at eleven five

Sandy: I thought you said the orbina building was over valued

Matt: (points) that was before my guy found out Lockheed plans to build a new plant in the area

Sandy: (impressed) oh well done, your guy

Matt: yeah, I have a guy (Sandy laughs) (laughs) actually he's your guy too (Sandy's smile goes) licensed private investigator registered with the state, completely legal, above the board

Sandy: well maybe he could dig up a little something on the honourable Jim Mercer

Matt: who's that

Sandy: he's the head'a the Harbor board of trustees, the person who has the final say on whether or not Marissa will be readmitted

Matt: an I take it that's a problem

Sandy: oh he's not a big fan'a mine

Matt: ill put in a call

Sandy: (puts hand up) w-whoa

Matt: just a little background check, jus see what he comes up with (stands) it'll be fun

(Matt leaves and Sandy doesn't look like he's completely against the idea)

CUT TO: Newport Union - Marissa is sitting a table by herself with her lunch. Ryan sits down next to her

Ryan: hey

Marissa: hey (smiles, puts arms around Ryan) what're you doing here

Ryan: I dropped by to give you an update and some campaign shwag (Marissa laughs) (holds up t-shirt) what'do you think

Marissa: wow, I love it, what's next coffee mugs (raises eyebrows) baseball caps

Ryan: yeah whatever it takes

Marissa: seriously I can't believe this is happening

Ryan: where's Johnny (frowns) dont- doesn't he usually eat with you

Marissa: yeah well he had a doctor's appointment; oh I guess PacWest's giving him a second chance

Ryan: really, that's great

Marissa: yeah (nods) everything's finally working out

(Marissa cell phone rings)

Marissa: (answers) hello...um ok...are you sure...uhhhh ok well then ill-ill come right now, bye (hangs up)

Ryan: everything alright

Marissa: uh, yeah, that was jus Chili, I guess he's not feeling well so I need'ta bring him this book

Ryan: (raises eyebrows) what you need'ta bring him a book right now

Marissa: (shrugs) it won't take me long

Ryan: alright, well I could drive you

Marissa: no, you know you should get back, help Summer on the front lines (stands) ill see you guys at the diner ok

Ryan: yeah

Marissa: (kisses Ryan's cheek) mm, thanks for stopping by

Ryan: yeah

(Marissa leaves and Ryan sits there tapping a button on his fingers)

CUT TO: Harbor school - we see a flyer being put up on a locker and then we see that Summer is the one who put it there, she hurt her finger in the process. Ryan goes over to her

Summer: (points) don't tell me there's a problem with the t-shirts or I might freak out

Ryan: t-shirts are fine there in the car

Summer: (relieved) ok

Ryan: (frowns) it's Marissa, jus came from Union she got a call from Chili an took off, somethin I should know

Summer: n- well there might be a slight...issue

Ryan: right

Summer: I mean not like an issue issue, a friend issue...with Johnny issue (shrugs) (Ryan doesn't look happy) she's afraid she might be abandoning him

Ryan: oooof course she is (turns to walk away)

Summer: wait (pulls Ryan back and his side slams into the locker) stand down private, its the way she's wired, you wouldn't love her if she wasn't (Ryan looks at her) she wants ta come back here an she told Johnny jus like she said she would, if you wanna get mad an punch somebody or something...why not Taylor's mom, you need'ta get your ass back inta gear (gives Ryan a bag of buttons) start handing out some buttons

(Summer puts a flyer up on the locker behind Ryan and hits it hard. Ryan flinches lol)

CUT TO: Roberts' house - Julie walks up to the front door and rings the doorbell. Neil answers the door

Julie: (suprised) Neil

Neil: Julie, what a nice suprise

Julie: yes, yes it is I- I mean I didn't expect to see you at home, I'm looking for Marissa

Neil: well the girls aren't home from school yet, why'dont you come in

(Julie smiles and walks in. Neil motions for her to follow him to the living room)

Julie: so no rhinos to plasty today

Neil: (smiles) oh well Gloria called she wants her things sent to her sisters in Napa, so I cleared my schedule, thought id have that talk with Summer today

Julie: well, aren't we two peas in a pod, now that Marissa might go back to Harbor the money I have saved for a new place will go to tuition, kind of forces my hand with the trailer situation (worried) I don't know what she's gonna think

Neil: well I think she's gonna be very grateful (Julie looks at him skeptically) her mom making sacrifices for her future

(Julie forces a small smile. Neil motions for Julie to sit on the couch)

Julie: ooh yeah

Neil: um

(Neil sits down on the long couch and Julie sits down across from him in an armchair)

Neil: girls should be home uh-hm, they should be home any minute

(Julie smiles almost awkwardly. they both seem a little nervous)

Neil: I think they were up most of the night last night working on that petition

Julie: oh

Neil: they're so hopeful

Julie: an here we are about to ruin everything

Neil: really (sits forward) its uh really selfish of us if you think about it isn't it

Julie: yeah, you know I-I suppose I could wait a few days you know see how everything pans out

Neil: seems like more of a weekend conversation doesn't it

Julie: you are so right

Neil: you know (looks at Julie) I could really go for a drink

Julie: you read my mind

(Julie and Neil stand)

CUT TO: Johnny's bedroom - Dennis is sitting on the edge of the bed holding what looks like a broken surfing trophy. Marissa comes in and looks around stunned. we see what she is seeing which is a majorly trashed room. clothes everywhere, things smashed etc. it's a mess

Marissa: oh my god (looks around) where is he

Dennis: ...who knows, PacWest doctors refused to sign off on his knee, they said its too soon to tell whether or not he'll be back hundred percent (looks at Marissa upset) there not gonna let him tour (Marissa looks worried) (looks down) I've never seen him like this, not even after the accident

Marissa: well we gotta find him

Dennis: tell him what...everything's gonna be ok (Marissa looks away) the guys futures trashed he's pretty much lost everything (looks at Marissa) I don't know if he'll be able ta make it back from this

(Marissa looks sad and worried. we then see a few beach/surfy scenes while the sun goes down)

CUT TO: The Diner, now night - Ryan, Seth and Summer are sitting in a booth together. they all look tired and on the verge of giving up

Summer: I can't believe we spent all day canvassing an we only have like thirteen signatures

Seth: well say what you want about Taylor but the girls connected, cheerleaders, water polo players, the band, she turned the alternative?

Ryan: alright so it's down to the three of us, the AV club an the comic book geeks

Seth: (screws up face) actually Leons still a bit of a hold out?

(Marissa comes in)

Summer: wait you guys, shut up jus act positive ok (enthusiastically) we are so gonna rock that hearing

Seth: hey (smiles) ohh yeah

Summer: we really are

Marissa: you guys, I don't think I can go

(Seth, Summer and Ryan look at Marissa)

Ryan: what, why what happened

Marissa: look I really appreciate (raises eyebrows, shrugs) everything you guys have done but I jus don't think I can go back to Harbor

(Summer and Seth look down. Ryan looks at Marissa. Marissa looks back at them sadly before leaving. Seth frowns. Ryan looks confused. Summer looks disappointed)

CUT TO: Cohen backyard, next morning - Ryan comes out of the pool house with his school stuff. Marissa walks up to him

Ryan: hey

Marissa: hey...so I know I didn't feel like talking about it last night but, I owe you an explanation (Ryan looks at her) it's Johnny

Ryan: ah kinda figured that (raises eyebrows)

Marissa: don't be mad

Ryan: (laughs) I'm not mad (sits)

Marissa: its jus, I wanted to come back to Harbor (sits next to Ryan)

Ryan: ok, soooo (smiles) so what's wrong now

Marissa: well, PacWest has changed their mind, they're not letting him on the tour after all, he's really freaked out

Ryan: well you gotta stop making this your problem

Marissa: but it is my problem (feels bad) I mean his girlfriend, the accident, getting kicked off the team (shrugs)

Ryan: are not your fault! you can't give up your one chance to go back to Harbor jus so (frowns) Johnny has someone to hang with in the hall

Marissa: I never asked you to do this

Ryan: (looks at Marissa) sooo you're saying we shouldn't have

Marissa: (closes eyes) ...no (sighs) n- I don't know (raises eyebrows) I'm sorry

Ryan: (looks at Marissa) ...well, we're meeting here before going to the school tonight (Marissa nods) jus so you know

(Ryan walks away and Marissa watches him)

CUT TO: Newport group - Sandy is sitting on the couch doing some paper work and Matt puts a folder down in front of him. Sandy looks up

Matt: my guy came through on your judge, you don't have'ta use it if you don't want to but, its interesting (sits) an not irrelevant to the matter at hand

Sandy: tell me the short version

Matt: the judge has a son, Nick, an he's got a drug problem (Sandy is listening) he got kicked outta military school for usin, nobody's heard from him since

Sandy: oh (shakes head) the case where he an I squared off I was defending a kid like that

Matt: well, if the judge wants ta play hardball with Ryan's girlfriend at least...you have some ammunition

Sandy: to what, exploit his family's tragedy, embarrass him in front of the community

Matt: I jus thought you'd wanna know

Sandy: I do (nods) thankyou, it's gonna be tricky an there'll be four very disappointed kids if I make a wrong move (looks down, thinking)

CUT TO: Harbor school - Seth and Summer are sitting behind a table at the top of the first set of stairs. they have 2 large signs and one of the flyers on the front. the 2 signs say MARISSA COOPER GRADUATES. the first is white with red writing and the other is light blue with darker blue writing. there are also t-shirts and clipboards sitting on the table. Summer is wearing a "Free Marissa" shirt and holding a button

Summer: (calls) free Marissa, help Marissa get back inta Harbor

Seth: sign our petition

Jock: sign this geek

(Summer frowns, Seth screws up his face)

Seth: (shakes head) I'm not gonna sign his genitals

Summer: ok we are like getting crushed

Seth: I jus don't understand why this is happening, I mean even if people don't really like Marissa-

Summer: wha- whoa (raises eyebrows) everybody likes Marissa

Seth: well even if they didn't they could still sign the petition, what'do they care if she goes here

Summer: well that's the point they don't care, this school is apathetic they need someone who can inspire, someone who can intimidate

Seth: (squints) they need Taylor

Summer: (looks at Seth) yeah, you know maybe its better to be feared than loved (touches Seth's arm) Cohen you have my permission to do whatever it takes

Seth: (looks at Summer) an what is it

Summer: I'm picturing, like, Indecent Proposal (Seth looks down) your Demi, naturally, an Taylor is a leather faced guy who talks to horses

Seth: you want me to trade sex for signatures

Summer: jus get her on board, I need Marissa back (raises eyebrows) at this school

(Summer hands Seth a petition clipboard)

Seth: (screws up face) I feel so dirty (leaves)

CUT TO: Johnny's bedroom - Johnny is on his bed holding the broken surfing trophy that Dennis had earlier. the room is dark and depressing. we hear a knock

Johnny: I'm not goin to school today mom

(we can now see that Ryan is standing in the doorway)

Ryan: mom jus left for work (Johnny looks over) she let me in on her way out (Johnny looks away) (folds arms) Marissa told me about the tour...I'm sorry man

Johnny: she send you ta...check up on me

Ryan: doesn't know I'm here, she's the reason I came

Johnny: (looks at Ryan) is she ok

Ryan: (sighs) depends on how you look at it, she's (Johnny sits up) she's decided to stay at Newport Union (smiles)

Johnny: ...you private school kids find it hard to believe

Ryan: (annoyed) first of all I don't need you lecturing me about public school (Johnny looks at him then away) second of all she's not staying for the quality of the education she's staying for you

Johnny: well I didn't ask her to do anything

Ryan: you didn't have to

Johnny: (looks at Ryan then down) no matter what anyone says...its still gonna be her choice

Ryan: jus wanna make sure she feels free to make it

(Ryan leaves and slams the door behind him. Johnny looks over at the closed door. in the background we hear the door open and close as Ryan leaves the house. Johnny throws his trophy thing down, frustrated)

CUT TO: Newport Group - Sandy is in his office and Kirsten comes to the doorway. Sandy has his back to the door and looks as though he's deep in thought

Kirsten: Sandy

(Sandy turns around and Kirsten smiles)

Sandy: hey

Kirsten: ah, you have lunch yet (walks in) I was signing a new client at the deli and I picked you up a turkey pastrami on rye

Sandy: with mustard (hopeful)

Kirsten: (winks) spicy dijon

Sandy: my hero (kisses Kirsten)

(Sandy sits down on the couch looking a little preoccupied while Kirsten pulls out the food)

Kirsten: (notices) bad day

Sandy: ...I've been faced with an ethical dilemma

Kirsten: well if I do say so my ethics are excellent (smiles, sits next to Sandy) try me

Sandy: Judge Mercer

Kirsten: ahh the one who hates you an tried to get you disbarred

Sandy: the very one, turns out he's the father of a junkie (looks at Kirsten, Kirsten nods, listening) his kid got kicked outta school...an he fell right off the map

Kirsten: and you think you can use this information to shame him into helping Marissa

Sandy: the thought has crossed my mind (looks at Kirsten)

Kirsten: well...what would you do...if you were still a public defender an Marissa was your client

(Sandy looks as though he's thinking again)

CUT TO: Harbor school - Seth is walking in the halls by himself. he goes over to Taylor who is at her locker

Seth: Taylor (Taylor looks) hey we need'ta talk

Taylor: well I would love to talk to you, about anything but Marissa Cooper (raises eyebrows)

Seth: I have been sanctioned to offer you sexual favours, I swear Summer said it was ok

Taylor: (mouth open) wow (laughs) anything else you would be facing a long night, involving candle wax tube socks an the new Fiona Apple CD (Seth screws up his face) but Marissa, I can't

Seth: ok well lucky for both of us I've optioned to forgo man whoring (raises eyebrows) an make an appeal to your heart (points) because I know that you have one

Taylor: (closes eyes) Seth, don't (sighs)

Seth: now I am your friend, so is Summer an so is Ryan an if Marissa came back you'd have her too

Taylor: (shakes head) ok, you don't get it, my moms a sports agent

Seth: (suprised) your moms a sports agent, I thought she was just a bored bitter Newpsie

Taylor: she's a bored bitter ball buster (nods)

Seth: oh

Taylor: three hundred pound football players go to her when they need something done (Seth looks at her) (sadly) she threatened to take away my car

Seth: we'll give you a ride ta school

Taylor: not to pay for college (raises eyebrows)

Seth: you can get a scholarship

Taylor: (closes eyes, shakes head) I'm sorry

Seth: fine, but as your friend I'm gonna beg you to do one thing (points) do not grow up to be like your mom (hands Taylor petition) cause your too good for that

(Seth leaves and Taylor looks down at the signatures, we can see that only the first 13 lines have signatures. then she looks up sadly)

CUT TO: Julie's trailer - Julie is in the bedroom in a robe. she picks up an outfit off the bed and holds it up to herself while looking in the mirror. she throws the jacket back on the bed and looks at the dress. we hear a knock at the door

Julie: (frustrated, calls) I don't want any pigeon pie Gus (walking to the door) I think it's terrible what you do to those little birds

(before Julie can open the door Neil pokes his head in. Julie is stunned)

Julie: Neil, wow, uh, this is a suprise (quickly tidies up some food on the coffee table)

Neil: well I figured I owed you one (looks) wow, so this is what one'a these looks like on the inside huh (walks in) mm (points) pork rinds

Julie: uh (looks down) yeah well when in Rome (smiles)

Neil: oh I thought you'd be dressed an ready to go to the hearing I was hoping you might need a ride

Julie: oh, uh thankyou um (puts food down) but uh truthfully I don't think I'm gonna go (Neil looks at her) I think Marissa just might be better off without me (nods)

Neil: well that's nonsense, every girl needs her mom (Julie looks at him) an I'm gonna be in your corner, I give alotta money to that school

Julie: (thinks, smiles) give me five minutes

(Julie heads back into the bedroom)

Neil: um ill jus (picks up pork rinds) take these an ill be outside trading stock tips with your friend Gus huh (eats pork rind)

(Neil opens the door with a pork rind sticking out of his mouth. Julie smiles and goes in the bedroom to get ready)

CUT TO: Cohen backyard - Summer is sitting on a seat by herself. Seth comes over from near the house and Ryan comes out of the pool house

Seth: (sighs) no word back from Taylor

Ryan: we gotta leave in an hour an no sign of Marissa

Summer: wait, so what're you guys saying

Seth: (sits next to Summer) that this was a valiant campaign

Ryan: yeah, really valiant (sits next to Summer)

Seth: one any General would be proud of

Summer: (looks from Ryan to Seth) surrender much, I bet Napoleon never talked like this

Ryan: well maybe he should have, right before he was defeated an exiled

Seth: Summer, my little empress (takes Summers hand) this is our Waterloo, we need'ta retreat an minimise collateral damage

Summer: (not ready to give up) well, cant we jus wait a couple minutes before we raise the white flag (looks from Seth to Ryan) she's always late, I mean maybe she got lost...or something (sighs)

(Ryan frowns. Seth looks at Summer and then he and Ryan both look off in opposite directions)

CUT TO: Newport Union - Marissa is sitting on the bench reading a book. behind her Dennis slides down the stair rail and runs off, he comes back when he notices Marissa

Dennis: Marissa (Marissa looks) hey aren't you spose'ta be at that Harbor thing

Marissa: no (shakes head) but hey have you seen Johnny, cause I've been looking for him all day

Dennis: (smiles) I know its crazy right, I actually gotta go right now (points) otherwise ill be late for the PacWest thing

Marissa: (confused) w-wait what PacWest thing

Dennis: you haven't talked to Johnny at all (Marissa motions no) (walks back) well it turns out that that (sits) fancy surgeon that you hooked him up with went to med school with the PacWest doctor, he put in a call an convinced the guy that Johnny would make a full recovery an he's back on the team (smiles)

Marissa: (suprised) I can't believe he didn't tell me

Dennis: well its been insane, they want him to leave next month, I guess they hired him some tutor that's spose'ta help you with the GED, I've already hit up my dad for frequent flyer miles so I can tag along

Marissa: (suprised) wait you're going too (raises eyebrows)

Dennis: hell yeah, its the chance of a life time (stands) so anyways its kinda funny how it all worked out huh (Marissa looks at him) I mean Johnny an I hittin the road, you goin back to your old school

Marissa: (thinks) yeah, hey I gotta go but if you see Johnny will you congratulate him for me

Dennis: I will

(Marissa smiles and leaves. we see a close up of Dennis watching her. a door in the background opens and Johnny comes out. Johnny nods to Dennis and Dennis nods back as if to say "I did it". Johnny looks almost sad)

CUT TO: Cohen backyard - it's now dark and Ryan, Summer and Seth are still sitting where they were before

Seth: Summer, we can't wait any longer Marissa's not coming

(Summer looks from Seth to Ryan, disappointed)

Summer: ok, fine

Ryan: alright, ill tell Sandy

(Marissa comes over)

Marissa: Sandy's waiting in the car (Ryan, Summer & Seth look over) I told him we'd be right out, you guys ready (smiles)

Ryan: yeah

(Ryan, Summer and Seth stand. Summer looks happy again)

CUT TO: Harbor school - we are inside the room of the board meeting. a few people are already in there. we see Julie and Neil walk in together amd on the other side of the room Marissa, Ryan, Sandy and Kirsten come in

Marissa: (to Sandy) thanks so much for doing this

Ryan: yeah really it means alot

Sandy: oh ornery judge, captive audience, righteousness on my side I feel right at home

Kirsten: ooooh, this is what you do, you'll be great (smiles)

(Jim Mercer comes in near Sandy and Kirsten)

Sandy: judge Mercer (holds out hand) Sandy Cohen

Jim: (looks at Sandy's hand) I know who you are, be a cold day in hell Cohen, I'm looking forward to this

(Sandy smiles and Jim heads to the front)

Kirsten: oh yeah, you gotta bury him

(Seth and Summer come in. at the same time Matt comes in at the opposite end of the room and goes over to Sandy and Kirsten)

Matt: Sandy (Sandy & Kirsten look over) hi Kirsten, sorry to bother you both but uh

Sandy: we're about to start here

Matt: yeah I know (holds up folder) I think you wanna hear this

Sandy: alright (to Kirsten) be right back

Kirsten: ok

(the next thing we see is Sandy and Matt out in the hall. behind them Veronica and Taylor are near the doorway about to go in)

Taylor: mom please if you wanna do this it's your decision but don't make me face my friends while you do it

Veronica: Taylor you are either with me or against me (Taylor closes her eyes) now which is it

Taylor: (goes to speak) ...I have'ta go to the little girls room

(Taylor walks off. Veronica sees Dr Kim arrive and goes over to her)

Veronica: Dr Kim may I have a word with you

Dr Kim: (unenthusiastically) yes, of course you can

(we are now back with Matt and Sandy)

Matt: I had my guy keep digging (holds out papers)

Sandy: oh I've been thinkin about this, I don't know (reads)

(Matt raises his eyebrows at Sandy. Sandy looks at Matt)

Sandy: tell me everything

(we are now back in the room of the board meeting. Seth and Summer have their ears up against a phone)

Seth: hey, Taylor, it's Seth

Summer: and Summer

(we now see Taylor on her phone)

Taylor: hi Seth an Summer

Seth: so we were kinda hopin we might see ya here at the meeting

Taylor: yeah uh...no, sorry guys (Summer & Seth listen) I know you must be really mad at me

Seth: no it's ok, its your mom we get it, well listen thanks for tryin we'll just uh...we'll let you know how everything goes

Taylor: thanks...that's really nice

(we hear the sound of Seth & Summer hanging up. Taylor looks as though she feels bad - back in the meeting)

Summer: look (to Seth) speak of the devil literally

(Seth, Summer, Marissa and Ryan look over and we see Veronica come in. she goes straight over to Neil who is standing talking with Julie)

Veronica: Neil (touches Neil's arm) always a pleasure

Neil: Veronica

(Veronica and Neil touch cheeks and make a kissing sound)

Neil: you know Julie Cooper-Nichol

Julie: hi

Veronica: of course, Marissa's a real (looks at Neil, pointedly) chip off the old block isn't she

(Ryan and Marissa look at each other)

Neil: I couldn't agree with you more (Julie looks at him) brains, beauty an a flare for fashion (Julie smiles)

Veronica: (not impressed) excuse me

(Veronica walks between Neil and Julie. Julie smiles at Neil. Neil motions "after you" to Julie and then puts his hand on the small of her back as they head to their seats. Marissa looks worried)

Marissa: maybe this was a bad idea (Ryan looks at her)

(Veronica, Jim and 2 other men are seated at the long table at the front of the room)

Jim: good evening, thankyou all for coming, I see its a full house tonight an I think we all know what or should I say who (Marissa looks at Summer & Seth, Summer looks at her) brought in the crowd, so why don't we just start with the matter of uh Marissa Cooper (looks at Veronica) uh Miss Townsend, you are speaking on behalf of the parents association, would you care to open

(Ryan and Marissa watch)

Seth: (to Kirsten) where's dad

Kirsten: he'll be right back

(Veronica is now at the podium)

Veronica: thankyou judge Mercer, as I'm sure you all know Marissa Cooper shot (Marissa looks down) a boy in the back, as head of the parents association, an a concerned parent myself (Julie blinks, Kirsten listens) I can tell you this is not what the parents want

(Taylor qiuetly sneaks in at the back of the room holding the petition and wearing a "Free Marissa" shirt. aww)

Veronica: an this is not what the Harbor students want either

Taylor: yes it is!

(everybody turns to look at Taylor. Summer looks at Seth and then Veronica)

Veronica: (unimpressed) sit - down young lady, children are not permitted to address the board

Summer: (stands) um but (points) there allowed to address each other, right

(Veronica looks at Jim. Jim nods)

Summer: Taylor why don't you show us what you've got

Taylor: (nods) it's a petition, with over three hundred signatures (Ryan & Marissa look at her) basically the entire student body

(Veronica is stunned. Taylor gives the petition to Jim at the front of the room. Ryan and Marissa look suprised. Jim and the other men look over the petition. Summer moves over so Taylor can sit between herself and Seth. aww. Taylor has a huge smile on her face)

Jim: well this is all well an good, but Miss Townsend is correct students do not make the decisions in these matters

Julie: (stands) well I am not a student an I would like to tell everyone here that Marissa (Marissa looks down) has shown such dignity an maturity throughout this entire nightmare

Veronica: of course you think so, you're her mother (Julie glares at her)

Neil: your absolutely right Veronica (stands) so ill speak on behalf of Miss Cooper

Seth: (claps) go - Dr - Roberts (Neil & Taylor look at him) you rock you (points) sorry (looks down) sir (motions for Neil to continue)

Neil: Marissa Cooper has been living (a frustrated Veronica sits down) in my home for the past few months, so I can say without hesitation (puts hand on Marissa's shoulder) that this young lady would make any father proud (Marissa looks down) an this school would be lucky to have her (Summer smiles proudly)

Jim: well that's a nice sentiment Dr Roberts (Neil sits) an this student petition is (Julie smiles at Neil) certainly meaningful but I don't think I can advise the board to break precedent here, this school has never readmitted a student (Ryan looks at Dr Kim, Dr Kim raises her eyebrows) who has been expelled for reasons relating ta violence

Ryan: uh that's (Marissa & Summer look at him) not exactly true (Jim looks at him) uh there is precedent