Dave Karner
Aug 31, 2018 · 2 min read

Scene #8

INT./EXT. SHOWER — NIGHT

CLIVE (50’s), wearing a blue mechanic’s jumpsuit with his name embroidered on the patch, stands in a PELTING SHOWER, letting the water run down his head and over his body.

His boots have long since filled.

Clive reaches up with his hands and puts them on his head. He cries silently, the only evidence his pressed eyes and nodding head.

The door to the bathroom opens and a beautiful, blonde woman, KAREN (30’s), stands there in a robe.

KAREN: Clive! What the hell are you doing?

CLIVE: You need to go.

KAREN: Go? What do you mean go? I’m not going anywhere! What are you doing in there with your clothes on?

Clive is silent.

Finally, Karen reaches in and turns the shower off.

Clive stands there soaking, dripping.

KAREN: Do you want a towel?

Clive stands there clenching and un-clenching his fists.

CLIVE: Okay.

Karen grabs a towel from the rack and notices a LARGE BUTCHER’S KNIFE sitting on the top of the toilet tank.

The knife shines brilliantly, ready for use.

Karen gently hands Clive the towel.

KAREN: Do you want to talk about it?

CLIVE: Do you want to talk about it?

KAREN: I’m not sure what you mean.

CLIVE: That’s what I’m talking about, Karen.

Karen hitches her hip to prop her hand.

Clive finally begins to dry himself.

KAREN: I like puzzles like any other girl-

CLIVE: It ain’t no puzzle. I’m talking about “alternative facts” and “spin” and downright lies.

KAREN: I can’t stand those fuckers, but what does that have to do with me?

CLIVE: Everything. And that guy who’s hiding in my closet. (beat) Do you think he’s gone yet? Did you have your fun?

Karen’s eyes go wide. He’s figured it out.

Karen turkey-peeks out of the bathroom doorway.

KAREN (sotto): Yes. I’m sorry, Clive.

CLIVE: Sometimes you just need a really cold shower to save your life. You know what I mean?

KAREN (sotto): Yes. Yes, I do.