Harry & Javier by Jane Madson McCabe Fashioned from the story of the 9th Century Baghdadi Caliph, Harun al-Rashid © Jane Madson McCabe 4121 Marmion Way, #15 Los Angeles, CA 90065 (323) 221.0175 Email: janemmccabe@live.co 

Opening credits:

A beach facing east(San Felipe, Baja, Mexico) about a half hour before sunrise. Various people, fishermen and others, are milling about. Some people are sleep on the beach. It is still dark and a silver of a crescent moon can be seen low in the sky. Roosters are caca-doodling. An alcove is dotted with about 100 small white fishing boats that have been hauled up on the sand. The tide is out and there is a sand bar, some shallow water, and then the beach proper. Fishermen, wearing white rubber boots, prepare themselves for the day ahead. Several derelicts walk on the sidewalk, one with a pack of four or five stray dogs following him. Tortilla chips are being fried and the vendor is ladling them from the hot oil.

A preacher quotes from

II Timothy 3:1-5:

FISHERMAN:

“In the last days men will be lovers of themselves.”

Birds-pelicans and seagulls-fly. As the sky gradually lightens, the moon rises higher (fading as the sky grows lighter.) Before the sun actually shows itself on the horizon its rays shine on the clouds overhead. There is a sense of excitement, of joy, in the coming of a new day.

We see the back of a young woman sitting on the sand facing the sun. She is sitting in a yoga pose and wears a top and a sarong. She holds a long batik scarf in her hands. Slowly she rises and salutes the rising sun. She dances gracefully, turning cartwheels and using her scarf to create circles of motion. It is as if her dance is a paean to the new day.

A man with a guitar serenades. For two pesos he can buy a fish taco for breakfast and some coffee.

Seated at a table on a balcony sits a handsome man drinking coffee, reading a newspaper, and dabbing his eyes with a handkerchief. The man is about 33 years old. His posture, his countenance bespeaks one who is well-bred and sophisticated. He has a head of dark, curly hair, dark dreamy eyes, finely chiseled cheekbones and a well-trimmed moustache. He wearing a striped robe. He smiles and dabs his eyes again as though in a reverie of nostalgia. He rises, stretches a bit and enters the open doors to the house. The wind rustles the pages of his newspaper left on the table.

SCENE I, INT. HARRY walks through the corridors of his luxurious villa. Servants are carrying baskets and platters of objects. Harry doesn’t acknowledge them nor they him. In fact, they take care to give him a wide berth, as though they are loathe to disturb him in any way. It is apparent that preparations are being made for a celebration. Harry opens the door of the nursery and views several sleeping children. Quietly he closes the door so as not to disturb them. He continues down the corridor and opens another door. Inside on a large bed is the sleeping figure of his wife. He walks to the bedside, sheds his robe, and lifting the covers slides into bed next to her.

ZUNILDA

(stirring)Harry? What time is it?

HARRY

It’s still early-about 5 a.m.

ZUNILDA

Honey, please let me sleep a while longer. I didn’t go to bed until 2, and we have such a big day ahead...

HARRY

Go ahead, sleep, my dear.

Harry reaches for and starts to make love to her. Despite her protests, her face registers the joy she feels that her husband desires her. They continue to talk as they make love.

ZUNILDA

Oh, Harry, that’s good, so good. Harry? Harry, tell me, do you intend to go through with it?

HARRY

I do.

ZUNILDA (TIRED)

I don’t know...it’s kind of crazy.

HARRY

What?

ZUNILDA

It’s, it’s just not natural...

HARRY

It’s not your business, my dear. Nothing will be taken from you, I promise. You know I love you and I always will, but I love Javier too.

ZUNILDA

I love Javier too, but not enough to marry him!

When their lovemaking is over, Harry gets out of bed, leans over and kisses Zunilda on the cheek.

HARRY

See you later. I’m having breakfast with Javier. I know you’re going to look gorgeous today. You always do...

SCENE II EXT. INTERIOR TO POOLSIDE

Harry walks through his villa. He stops at the balcony, views the scene below, and sees it’s a beautiful day, full of sunshine. He smiles, wipes his eyes, and continues until he comes into the pool area and surrounding deck. He watches the figure swimming in the water, that of his beloved Javier. Javier is gracefully swimming in the nude and pretends not to see Harry, so Harry sits and opens the newspaper he has under his arm. He pretends to read...

A servant, Hugo, a huge man, whom we will come to understand is a deaf-mute, comes and asks him whether he wants anything. He communicates by writing on a tablet. Harry tells him to bring coffee and breakfast for two. As Hugo exits, Javier stops swimming and drapes his arm over the edge of the pool. The sunshine sparkles on his handsome face and he gives Harry a beguiling smile.

JAVIER

Good morning, darling. Why don’t you come and swim with me? The water’s fine...

HARRY (IRRITABLY)

You know I hate the water, and I can’t swim...

JAVIER

I know. Remember when we went fishing with my father? You got so excited when you caught a big fish that you stood up and fell into the water?

HARRY

I would have drown if you hadn’t jumped in and saved me.

JAVIER

I nearly drown too--you were thrashing so hard...

HARRY

That’s the last time I got into a body of water bigger than my bathtub.

JAVIER (LAUGHING)

I suppose you’ve been up before dawn, as usual. Honestly, Harry, I don’t know when you sleep . . . .

HARRY

I don’t need much sleep. I have too much on my mind to waste perfectly good hours of the night sleeping... (Harry studies Javier and smiles) Did you sleep? After all, you are a double-groom today.

JAVIER

I’m marrying two people today, Ariadne and you! Something new in the annals of history-a triple wedding!

(Javier conceals his real feelings from Harry; he knows that he must conceal the strength of his feelings for Ariadne from him, because Harry is quite possessive. He is allowing Javier and Ariadne to marry only on the condition that Javier also marries him and that they promise never to be intimate with one another unless he is present.)

The two have been friends since they were boys. Javier’s father was an erudite man. He was Harry’s father’s vizier, just as Javier is Harry’s.)

Javier hosts himself from the pool, water dripping from his slender bronze body. He laughs, comes over to Harry and kisses him fully on the mouth. Harry closes his eyes and returns the kiss. (Harry and Javier have been lovers since they were teenagers, so their relationship has the camaraderie of men completely familiar with one another. Yet today there is some tension between them.) Javier sits down at the table.

HARRY

Javier, I love you! You are second only to God with me. You are the air I breath, the only one I cannot live without. The ONLY way I can stand to let you have Ariadne is if you also have me. Women are second to us-we are men, and we rule. I rule! I am the king! Whatever I say goes. You are my lieutenant, my right hand...my other half.

JAVIER

Harry, you carry things too far. You always did. When we were boys, whatever you had was never enough. If our nurse gave us pudding, you wanted mine too. You were always so greedy...

HARRY

Hush. What’s to be is to be. All that’s left is for you and Arry to do is to sign the contract. Come to my office at 10 a.m. promptly to sign our prenuptial agreement-ha! Otherwise, there will be no wedding. Come, now, kiss me again.

JAVIER

(He’s used to giving in to Harry, as he has been doing so ever since they were children.) She hates it worse than I do-she’ll fight you like a wildcat. She’s a tiger, and you know it.

HARRY

She may be a tiger, but she’s not stronger than I am. She will do as I say, especially since, if she does, she gets to be your wife. Now, stop your pouting. Think how many people envy you. You are wealthy BECAUSE OF ME. You are powerful BECAUSE OF ME. You are marrying the woman you love BECAUSE I AM LETTING YOU DO SO. And you are so damn handsome BECAUSE GOD GAVE YOU YOUR GOOD LOOKS....

JAVIER, sadly looking into the pool, does not immediately reply, but he knows that it’s useless to argue with Harry. Harry will beat him down every time. He looks at Harry with admiration mixed with a touch of fear.

HARRY (ACTING LIKE GODZILLA)

(continues) I am the capo! I am the caliph! You are my vizier. I am next to God. You maybe my other half, but you must do whatever I say. Go now to your bride now. Come to me at 10 a.m. Don’t be late!

Harry reaches for his napkin and dabs his eyes as Javier wraps a towel around himself, slips into his sandals and walks away.

SCENE III INT. DAY. Seated at her dressing table in her bedroom is Ariadne, brushing her hair. Her beauty is startling. The bangles she wears on her arms jingle as she brushes. She is wearing a skimpy nightgown. Her breasts are golden globes and she radiates health and sexuality-a woman at the height of her sexual prowess Through her mirror she sees Javier entering her room.

ARIADNE

Javy, you know it’s bad luck to see me before the wedding, but, now that you are here, please come and make love to me. I love you so. I need you so, more than you know.

JAVIER

(He comes to her and scoops her into his arms.) Oh, Arry, it stops my heart to see you like this. You are the most lovely creature on the face of the earth. (He buries his face in her hair and cups her breasts with his hands.)

ARIADNE

(Turning so she can embrace Javier.) Come to me, my love. Come to me as the brook comes to the sea. I need to feel you inside me.

Javier lifts Ariadne by her elbows and they kiss.

JAVIER

Save yourself for me, until after the wedding....

ARIADNE (FIERY)

Darling, you know this may be the last time we can be together without Harry present. What a pervert!

JAVIER

I know, I know. He wants us to come to his office at 10 and sign the contract.

ARIADNE

Do we have to do this?

JAVIER

We have no choice. We cannot deny him this.

Ariadne draws her robe over her, her eyes cast downward. Subtle resentment marks her face, but when she looks at Javier, she smiles.

ARIADNE (RESIGNED)

It’s the price we must pay. Harry can force many things upon us but he cannot dictate what we feel in our hearts. Even Harry cannot do that! Now, my love, come into my bed.

SCENE IV EXT. GARDEN

In the garden outside Ariadne’s window Harry’s second sister, the plainer one, Xenobia, sits on her knees, a spade in her hands. She wipes some if the sweat from her brow. She is planting some pots of flowers. Beyond her in a wicker chair sits an old man smoking, Immanuel, Javier’s father. He wears the benign expression of someone who is content with himself and the world, however he looks at Xenobia with concern.

IMMANUEL

Daughter, why do you work so hard on a day meant for celebration?

XENOBIA

(scoffing) Celebration or sorrow? Which is it? What is being celebrated is being spoiled by the selfish one. You know it’s sick. Can’t you intervene?

IMMANUEL

What can I do? The days when Harry listened to me are over. He listens now only to himself... Yes, he’s laying down impossible conditions. Were I to tell him that it’s unnatural, unlawful in the sight of God, would he listen? He would say, get lost, old man.

XENOBIA

He might even send you away from us, even though you raised him as one of your own sons...

IMMANUEL (RESIGNED)

Harry was like a son to me, but I no longer know him now.

Power is a funny thing, especially when the person who yields thinks he has earned it. Then it corrupts.

Harry has become corrupted by the power he yields. And, there’s nothing you nor I can do about it.

What about you, my dear? Don’t you care to marry and bear children?

XENOBIA

I am not a natural woman. I care more about these plants than I do about acquiring a husband. I just want to be left alone-to do whatever I want to do-to garden, to read, to write my poems... Besides, I have the feeling that one day Harry is going to need me...

IMMANUEL (KNOWINGLY)

Those are sentiments I can understand... Be well, daughter.

Immanuel gets up, comes closer, raises his hand in salute to Xenobia, and walks towards the house, while she continues to garden.

SCENE V INT DAY

Harry enters a small house on the grounds of his villa. It’s dark inside. He makes his way to an old woman sitting in a rocking chair with a shawl thrown over her shoulders. He kisses her on the cheek. As the camera scans her face we see that the she is blind.

DONA MARGARITA

Harry, is that you?

HARRY

Yes, Mother. How are you today?

DONA MARGARITA (IRRITABLY)

My bones ache. I don’t sleep well. Nothing tastes good any more. And you hardly ever come to see me. You would do well never to grow old...

HARRY

Are you coming to the wedding?

DONA MARGARITA

Only if you send someone to help me dress and escort me there.

So, Javier and Ariadne are to be married today-how nice. It’s too bad your father isn’t alive to see this day.

HARRY

I’m being married today too.

DONA MARGARITA

You? You’re already married to Zunilda.

HARRY

Yes, but today I am marrying another.

DONA MARGARITA

You’re taking a second wife?

HARRY

Well, not exactly. I’m marrying Javier too.

DONA MARGARITA

You always had such strange ideas; even when you were a boy you did. You always had to have what you wanted. This will lead to no good, my son. You should learn to be content with what you have. This will bring you trouble-you will see.

HARRY

I’ve got to go now, Mother.

Harry bends over, kisses her on the cheek and leaves.

SCENE V INT DAY

Harry is in an empty church praying in a pew near the front. He is weeping and wiping the tears from his eyes. He is man with a sense of entitlement. He scans the church and says to himself:

HARRY

My great grandfather built this church. He drew the plans for it. He laid the building stone with his own hands. He commissioned the statuary, the frescos, the mosaics. He imported the silver candlesticks and communion cup from San Miguel. He purchased the hymnals.

My grandparents were married here. Dona Margarita and father too. All of us were baptized and took our first communion here. Zunilda and I were married here seven years ago. We baptized Rafeo and Alejandra here. NOW,today, Ariadne and Javier and I shall be married here...

The priest has spotted Harry, comes over and sits down next to him.

PRIEST

Good day, your excellency. Soon we will celebrate another happy occasion in this lovely sanctuary. I am pleased to marry Ariadne and Javier. It’s an excellent alliance for your families...

HARRY

Thank you, father. Today is a happy day. Did you get my message?

PRIEST (DUBIOUSLY)

Yes, I did, but I’m afraid I don’t quite understand...

HARRY (SLIGHTLY HOSTILE)

What didn’t you understand about it?

PRIEST

You indicated that you want to be married too, but you’re already married to Zunilda...

HARRY

That’s true, but I also intend to marry Javier.

PRIEST

But, Javier and Ariadne are to marry each other.

HARRY

They will marry each other and I will marry him. I told you this is to be a marriage for three-Javier, Ariadne and me.

PRIEST (UPSET)

But, this is highly irregular! The church could never approve such an arrangement. Ariadne is your own sister.

HARRY

Yes, it’s unusual, but it’s what I want. Unless I also marry Javier, there will be no wedding. It’s as simple as that...

Harry reaches into his breast pocket and removes a wallet. He opens it and removes a packet of money fastened by a rubber band. The priest eyes the wad. Harry methodically removes the rubber band and counts twenty $100 bills into his hand.

HARRY

There, that should make it a little less irregular, no?

PRIEST

As you wish, your excellency. As you wish...

He tucks the money into the pocket of his robe, blesses himself and leaves Harry. Harry blesses himself and rises, facing the altar.

HARRY

It’s what I want, Lord. It’s what I desire.

SCENE VI INT DAY

Xenobia and Ariadne are in Ariadne’s dressing room. Xenobia is helping Ariadne put the finishing touches on her wedding ensemble.

XENOBIA

Just go along with it! You know it’s useless to resist. Harry will have his way no matter what you do...

ARIADNE

You didn’t read the contract he made us sign. You didn’t see what he is forcing us to agree to...

XENOBIA

So, tell me.

ARIADNE

It plainly states that Javier and I can’t sleep together unless he is here! If we do, he promises to kill us.

XENOBIA

Whew! He’s gone that far? Our brother’s so grandiose. He thinks he owns us, this town. He thinks he’s God. So, did you sign it?

ARIADNE

What could we do? It was either that or he was calling the wedding off.

XENOBIA

Didn’t Javier resist?

ARIADNE

You know that Harry has complete power over Javier. Even if Javier thinks it’s nuts, he wouldn’t say so...

XENOBIA (COMFORTINGLY)

Don’t worry, sweetheart. We women have our ways...We can get around the strongest tyrant...you’ll see. Don’t let this ruin your wedding day. Act as though it’s the most natural thing in the world.

Xenobia helps put the veil on Ariadne head, straightens the folds, and kisses her.

XENOBIA

You couldn’t be more lovely.

EXT.

THE CAMERA SPANS THE OCEAN AND THE TOWN, THEN ZOOMS IN ON THE CHURCH. PEOPLE ARE ARRIVING FOR THE WEDDING.

Cars arrive outside the church and people disembark wearing their finest clothes. They chatter among themselves and enter the church. Watching them is a group of poor people, including a man who is spastic.

SPASTIC

I a a m re reading the si si signs. To to night there w w will be a lu, lu lunar eclipse. An e e clipse on a wed wed wedding day is sign of great un un happi ness.

WOMAN

Oh, hush. You and your signs. Senior Allende is in charge. We’ve never had it so good. Just be quiet, you.

SPASTIC

Y you’ll see. In in th th three years ev ev every one who smiles to today will we we weep...

SCENE VIII INT DAY

Interior of the church. The people are taking their seats. Organ music is being played. When the music stops, the priest comes from the side and stands at the altar.

As the music resumes the bride comes down the aisle on the arm of Immanuel, Javier’s father (her own father is dead.) Zunilda and Xenobia stand at on the left side, the bride’s matron and maid of honor. On the right side are two of Javier’s brothers, one of whom is the best man. Following Ariadne is the flower girl, Harry’s daughter, Alejandra, and behind her is the ring boy, her brother Rafeo, bearing on a small white satin pillow two sets of rings!

Both Javier and Harry stand directly to the priest’s right.

PRIEST

Today we are gathered for the happiest of occasions, a wedding.

When the priest gets to the part of the ceremony when he asks the bride and grooms to step forward, both Ariadne and Harry stand in front Javier. He joins hands with both of them. During this part of the ceremony the camera scans the wedding party and various people.

PRIEST

Do you, Ariadne, take Javier to be your lawful, wedded husband, to have and to hold, in sickness and health, until death do you part?

ARIADNE

I do.

The priest then turns to Javier.

PRIEST

Do you, Javier, take Ariadne to be your lawful, wedded wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and health, until death do you part?

JAVIER

I do.

Then he turns to Harry.

PRIEST (RELUCTANTLY)

Do you, Harry, take Javier to be your lawful, wedded husband, to have and to hold, in sickness and health, until death do you part?

HARRY

I do.

PRIEST

Do you, Javier, take Harry to be your lawful, wedding husband, to have and to hold, in sickness and health, until death do you part?

JAVIER

I do.

PRIEST

I then pronounce you husbands and wife. You may kiss one another.

Ariadne kisses Javier and then Harry; Javier kisses Ariadne and Harry; and Harry, Javier and Ariadne.

Javier walks down the aisle between Ariadne and Harry during the processional.

SCENE IX INT EVENING

The opulent hall for reception is filling with guests. Waiters are offering refreshments from platters. There is an open bar where people are getting drinks. At the end of the hall is a long table for the wedding party. The table is lain with appetizing dishes. A wedding cake has been placed on a separate table with three figures, a bride and two grooms, at its top. A band is playing. Laughter is heard. The wedding party files in. Everyone takes his seat at the table.

Harry is at the center with Ariadne on one side and Javier on the other. Zunilda sits on the other side of Ariadne-she looks elegant and poised but a bit stiff. Harry is in high spirits-he laughs charmingly and uproariously at a gentleman's joke. He reaches out to clasp hands with well-wishers. Javier too smiles broadly but is more restrained than Harry. Ariadne smiles sweetly to everyone and extends her hand. Harry reaches for a bunch of grapes; he eats one and then places one into Javier’s mouth, another into Ariadne’s.

Belly dancers perform. A group of dwarves perform a comically awkward ballet. People laugh at and cheer them.

Harry stands and rattles his spoon against his glass, causing everyone to quiet down and give him their attention. He intends to offer a toast.

HARRY (SMILING BROADLY)

Friends, thank you for coming. Today is a happy day for all of us. Here’s to a many years of heavenly bliss for Javier, Ariadne, and me.

Everyone lifts his/her glass and cries, “here, here.”

Javier stands to give a toast. He is elegant and smiling but is embarrassed. He lifts his glass to Ariadne, then to Harry.

JAVIER (CLUMSILY)

To my beloved bride, Ariadne, and to Harry, my friend since we were children, to whom I’m also wedded.

When the toasts have been offered, Harry claps his hands. A waiter comes to the table and gives him a parcel. Harry accepts it and slowly opens it. He holds up the contents, a beautiful yellow silk and embroidered cloak. On closer inspection, it has two openings at its collar. He motions Javier to stand and puts the cloak over his head; then he raises it again and puts the garment over his own head. They stand wearing the same cloak. The guests laugh in uneasily.

HARRY

Laugh if you must, but this is to signify, my beloved Javier, that you are the other half of me. From this day forward, we shall rule together, as opposite sides of the same body.

XENOBIA (TO ZUNILDA)

Is he mad? He has clearly gone too far...

ZUNILDA

HUSH. We must go along with him. He is the king.

Harry gets up causing Javier to also rise. As the music resumes he dances with Javier across the floor, beckoning for the others to join in. Then he and Javier go to Ariadne and ask her to join them.

It makes for a rather peculiar sight, the three of them dancing. Ariadne attempts to continue smiling but is distressed.

When the dance has ended, she returns to her seat, while Harry dances out the door with Javier and into the night.

A lunar eclipse in the nighttime sky can be seen.

END OF ACT ONE

ACT II

SIX MONTHS LATER

SCENE I EXT DAY

Zunilda, Ariadne and Xenobia are sitting at a table on the patio finishing lunch and talking. Alejandra and Rafeo are playing nearby. In a chair by herself sits Dona Margarita, listening to the conversation.

ZUNILDA

Don’t worry, Arry. Things will work out. You’ll see...

ARIADNE

How would you like it if every time Harry made love to you, Javier was there? Wouldn’t you find it inhibiting? No sooner Javier comes to our bedroom and Harry lets himself in the side door! Even if he doesn’t say anything, we both know he’s there. Sometimes he even sits on the edge of the bed.

It’s as though we are animals in the zoo whom he’s observing. It’s a killer. Javier feels he can’t really make love to me, not with Harry sitting there. We can’t even find time to talk to each other without Harry listening to our conversations. My marriage is a farce. No wonder I can’t get pregnant!

XENOBIA

(shaking her head sympathetically) It’s weird all right. Harry’s nuts. I don’t know why you all kowtow to him so. If he says, jump, you all say, how high? There’s no point in trying to talk to him-he won’t listen to reason.

ARIADNE

Javier isn’t happy. I can tell he isn’t. He’s drinking too much. He’s afraid to criticize Harry. He was once so happy, so carefree, and now he’s become sullen and remorse.

ZUNILDA

Do you want children?

ARIADNE

Does the plant want water and sunshine? Of course, we want children. Javier wants a child as much as I do.

XENOBIA

Does that silly contract forbid you to have children?

ARIADNE

It sort of does and it doesn’t. It just states that Javier is never supposed be with me unless Harry there too.

DONA MARGARITA

There are ways. We women have our ways...

ZUNILDA

Tonight Harry’s having one of his famous soirees. Other capos will be present. He has invited the poets to read, dancers to dance, philosophers to philosophize...

XENOBIA

Are we invited?

ZUNILDA

We can come if we like. If we don’t show up, we will be hardly missed.

XENOBIA

I suppose Harry and Javier will be sitting there in that silly robe with two collars, carrying on, drinking like a couple of fish. Once it’s midnight, they like to dress in disguise and roam about the town, pretending to be common folk. They might even visit prostitutes. The contract doesn’t apply to that.

DONA MARGARITA (THINKING)

Please tell Javier when he comes home that I would like to see him. Tell him to come to my house.

ARIADNE

They usually don’t come home until about 4 a.m.

DONA MARGARITA

It’s okay. I don’t sleep anyway.

The old lady gets up with her cane and makes her way over to the table. She puts out her hand and asks for Ariadne. Ariadne gets up and goes over to her.

DONA MARGARITA

Ariadne, dear. Please see me to my house.

Ariadne helps Dona Margarita from the patio. She lowers her head so that she can hear what her Dona Margarita is saying.

ARIADNE

I don’t know, Dona Margarita. Isn’t that a rather bold thing to do?

DONA MARGARITA

Do you have a choice?

XENOBIA (CALLING AFTER THEM)

Are you going to tell us what you’re talking about? When it comes to plotting, Mother outranks Harry.

DONA MARGARITA

(sternly) The less said the better.

SCENE II EXT-CAMERA MOVING FROM OUTSIDE TO INSIDE, NIGHT

San Filipe at sunset. Harry’s house is aglow with lanterns. Happy banter can be heard among the men gathered around his dining room table. A poet rises to read his poem.

POET

Bucephalus, great, courageous stallion, Afraid of his own shadow.

He throws anyone who tries to mount him, Until Alexander see the problem. Alexander turns his head towards the sun

So that he cannot see his own shadow. Stroking Him gently, speaking kind words,

He swings onto his back and rides.

He who is Master must understand

The maladies of his people,

So that he can calm their fears

And win their hearts to service.

(Applause) The poet looks pleased.

HARRY

Well done, my friend. Indeed, he who rules should understand the fears of his people...

In an expansive gesture, Harry removes one of the gold chains around his neck and throws it to the poet, who happily picks it up and places it around his own neck.

HARRY

Next? Come now. Who would like to perform before the master and his vizier? What do you say, Javier?

JAVIER (RECKLESSLY, FEIGNING HAPPINESS)

Could we have some music? Music and wine go well together. Music!

MUSICIAN

(rises, his flute in hand and plays a haunting melody.)

HARRY

Very good. What do you call that composition?

MUSICIAN

“Ode to the End of a Summer’s Day.”

Harry removes a ring from his fingers, a ring that contains a large ruby in its center. He throws it to the musician. When it lands on the ground, the musician scrambles to pick it up and places it on his own finger.

MUSICIAN

Thank you, master.

HARRY (IGNORING HIM)

Drink up, my friends, for soon the sun will set. We have the entire evening for our pleasure...

PHILOSOPHER

Master, may I speak?

HARRY

Yes, of course. What have you to share with us tonight?

PHILOSOPHER

Have you read Ibn Khaldun?

HARRY

I know of him, but go ahead, read me what he says.

PHILOSOPHER

“The forces that conquer possess an instinct for social cohesion, which enables them to move like a knife through all obstacles in creating an empire; but this quality, generated in the desert, lacks staying power and is soon dissolved by luxury, by vice, and by all the temptations of city life-by the very nature of conquest itself...

HARRY

(suspiciously) Yes?

PHILOSOPHER

It’s just meant to caution you, sir. Societies tumble when they become inured in luxurious living...

HARRY

(his eyes narrowing) Do you take it upon yourself to criticize your master?

PHILOSOPHER

On the contrary, Master. I only seek to serve.

When it becomes evident that Harry has no intention of rewarding the philosopher, he sits back down, relieved that the encounter is over.

HARRY

(clapping his hands) Dancers! More wine! Drink up, my friends. Hugo. Please bring our costumes for the night.

JAVIER

(wearily) Harry. Enough. We have to go to Chihuahua tomorrow. We don’t want to be too tired...

HARRY

Javier, you are becoming more of a nag than my wife. You used to be so much fun. Now you hardly ever laugh and smile. Please, humor me. Give me a kiss, my love.

Javier obliges Harry and kisses him. Harry is quite drunk.

HARRY

Javier, my dove. You are irresistible!

FADE

SCENE III EXT. NIGHT

Harry and Javier are stumbling through the streets of the town disguised as a couple of fisherman. Harry is singing and Javier is supporting him. Javier too is drunk. Eventually they find their way to Harry’s villa and ring the bell for the night watchman to let them in. He opens the gate and they go up the walk to the front door.

JAVIER

You go in, Harry. Zunilda will put you to bed. I’ll be there soon. I have to see Dona Margarita.

HARRY

At this hour?

JAVIER

Yes, she sent word saying she wants to see me before I retire.

HARRY

(laughing) How can she see you? She’s blind. Ha!

JAVIER

I’ll see you tomorrow. We have to be up by five. It’s almost 3 now.

Javier extricates himself and walks to Dona Margarita’s house. He lets himself in.

DONA MARGARITA

Javier, is that you?

JAVIER

Yes, Dona Margarita.

DONA MARGARITA

Come and sit with me a while. I can’t sleep. Pull a chair and give me your hands.

Javier does as he has been told. The Dona Margarita reaches up and strokes his face.

DONA MARGARITA

Are you still as handsome as you were when you were a boy? I could see what you looked like then.

JAVIER

I probably look more tired now.

DONA MARGARITA

It’s difficult living with Harry and Zunilda. You and Ariadne have no privacy.

JAVIER

Yes, Dona Margarita, it’s difficult.

DONA MARGARITA

Maria, come here and bring us some tea.

JAVIER

I don’t need any tea, Dona Margarita. I need to sleep. Harry and I are going to Chihuahua tomorrow.

DONA MARGARITA

Maria, there you are. Stand here and let Javier see you.

The serving maid stands in front of them. She has a shawl thrown over her head and shoulders. As though very shy, she has drawn the tip of the shawl across her face, which accentuates how beautiful her eyes are.

DONA MARGARITA

Does she please you, my son?

JAVIER

She’s very pretty, Dona Margarita.

DONA MARGARITA

Why don’t you lie with her tonight? You need to be a man without Harry there to supervise you.

Javier is drunk and tired. Maria comes and puts her arms around him. He does not resist. Gently she helps him up and leads him into Dona Margarita’s spare bedroom. She shuts the door and takes him to the bed. He falls into it and she gets in too.

MARIA

There, my love, let me help you with your clothes. I will rub your body with oil to give you sweet dreams.

JAVIER

Take your clothes off and let me see you.

MARIA

Yes, my love.

She slips out of her garments but keeps her head wrapped. Javier puts his hands on her breasts and strokes them. He draws her to him and suckles from her nipples. As the moonlight filters through the curtains, a crescent moon in the sky, Javier makes love to Maria.

The camera returns to the Dona Margarita, who is rocking in her chair and sipping her tea. She is nodding her head and smiling.

DONA MARGARITA (SLYLY)

Whatever will be will be.

SCENE IV EXT. DAY

It’s morning and Harry and Javier’s car is being packed for their journey. Zunilda, Ariadne and Xenobia stand alongside bidding them farewell.

HARRY

(issuing orders) Zunny, don’t forget to tell the gardener to prune the orange trees. If he doesn’t do right, we’ll have few oranges this year. Arry, you look lovely today. You look like the cat that swallowed the canary...

ARIADNE (SMILING)

A good night’s sleep can perform wonders, brother.

She kisses Harry and then Javier

ARIADNE

Have a safe trip and come back to me soon.

Javier gives her a winning smile. He too looks rejuvenated. The car pulls off, and the three women, their arms laced around each other, return to the house.

THREE MONTHS LATER

SCENE V INT. DAY

Ariadne and Xenobia are sitting in Ariadne’s bedroom. Ariadne is putting away the laundry while Xenobia fiddles with some makeup at her dressing table.

XENOBIA

How long has it been since your last period?

ARIADNE

Three months.

XENOBIA

Have you seen Dr. Rivera?

ARIADNE

I don’t dare. He might let Harry know...

XENOBIA

Have you told Javier?

ARIADNE

I don’t want to tell him until I’m sure...

XENOBIA

I’ll go to the pharmacist and get you one of those tests. You can do yourself. If you are pregnant, what will you do?

ARIADNE

I’ll have make up an excuse and go away, so Harry won’t know. When the child is born, I’ll have to leave him in someone else’s care. That’s all I can figure out...

XENOBIA

That’s exactly what you must do. I have a friend in Mexico City. Maybe you can go to her.

ARIADNE

Is she trustworthy? Can she keep a secret? No one must know except you and Javier...

XENOBIA

Yes, she’s trustworthy. Harry and I’ve known her since we were kids. What about Zunny? Will you tell her?

ARIADNE

I love Zunny. She always means well, but she has a loose tongue. And, she tells Harry everything. No, Zunny must not know. Dona Margarita, of course, knows. She arranged it! She would never betray our trust. Of that, we can be sure...

XENOBIA

I’m very glad and very scared.

SCENE VII EXT. DAY

Javier is sitting on the patio. In his hand is a letter from Ariadne. He tucks it into his shirt pocket. Harry emerges from the house, comes over, and sits down next to him.

HARRY

Women! You never know what they are up to. I don’t understand this. Suddenly Arry takes it into her pretty head that she wants to study psychology at the University of Mexico. Next thing I know off she goes. Dona Margarita would have never done such a thing, but Arry always did have a mind of her own. Once she set her sights on something, there’s no stopping her.

JAVIER

Perhaps I can go and see her...

HARRY

You can’t go without me! Forget Ariadne. We have each other and our work. I need you now. I can do without Ariadne for awhile, but I can’t do without you...

JAVIER (SLIGHTLY INSINCERE)

I know. You are the air I breath; I can’t live without you either.

HARRY

Good. I have to look at some of these contracts. I’ll see you later.

Harry gets up and goes back into the house. Again Javier removes the letter from his shirt pocket and rereads it. He whistles through his teeth and talks to himself.

JAVIER

So, my little one. You have tricked Harry and me. Now I’m to be a father. I’s so happy, you know that, but I’m also scared...

SIX MONTHS LATER

SCENE VIII INT. DAY

Mexico City. In an apartment decorated in a grand but shabby manner sit Ariadne with Pilar. Ariadne’s pregnancy is so pronounced that she will give birth soon. She has the glow of a pregnant woman but is uncomfortable and fretful.

ARIADNE

(fanning herself, then putting her hand over her stomach) Ouch, my little one. Take it easy! (to Pilar) My son will be a soccer player-he kicks just like one!

PILAR

How can you be so sure it’s a boy?

ARIADNE

Because a girl would never kick me like this! He will be a boy and he will look just like Javier. We will call him Eduardo. I wish Javier were here, but he can’t get away from Harry to come now.

PILAR

It wouldn’t be safe for him to come. If he flew here, Harry would show up on the next plane. Have you ever seen two men who were so close?

ARIADNE

They always were, even when they were boys. If Harry cut himself, Javier would cry. If Javier had something to say, Harry would say it for him.

PILAR

I don’t understand. Surely if Harry knew, he would be happy for you.

You’ll to return to San Filipe after the child is born. You have been away for six months...

ARIADNE

I know. I’ll leave the baby with you. You don’t mind taking care of him, do you, Pie?

PILAR

I’ll love taking care of him. After my hysterectomy I couldn’t have children. I’ll care for him as though he were my own...

ARIADNE

(in pain) Pie, please call for a cab. My contractions are beginning! Is my bag packed? Oh, I wish I didn’t have to go through this alone. Quick, Pie, call the cab!

PILAR

(rising and looking concerned) Stay right there. I’ll call a cab right now!

SCENE IX INT EVENING

The living room of Harry’s villa. Harry, Javier, Zunilda and Xenobia are sitting. The phone rings and Javier rises and hurries to answer it.

JAVIER

Buenos Noches, Ariadne, it’s you! When are you coming home? Yes. Yes. You passed your exam-that’s wonderful. You got all A’s. I’m proud of you. What? You are going to a soccer game tonight. Here, let me put Harry on. He wants to speak with you...

(Note: Saying she is going to a soccer game is their code for a boy. If the baby were a girl, she would say she’s going to the ballet.)

HARRY (COMING FROM BEHIND)

Ariadne, when are you coming home? We miss you. You should forget about being a scholar and be a wife. Yes, everything’s fine here. My God, they’re all lining up to have a word with you. Take care. Tell us when you’ll be arriving.

He hands the phone to Xenobia and he exits.

XENOBIA

Hi, kid. How’s it going? What? You passed the exam with flying colors. You’re going to the soccer game tonight. Please root for Mexico. We need a win. I can hardly wait to see you. Okay, bye.

She hands the phone to Zunilda.

ZUNILDA

Hi, honey. Oh, I’m fine. The kids are fine too. They ask for you all the time. They don’t know why you’ve been gone for so long. Yes, I’ll tell them you’re bringing them surprises. See you soon, honey.

Zunilda hangs up and phone and smiles at her family. It crosses her mind that Javier and Xenobia looks especially ebullient.

JAVIER

I have to tell Dona Margarita that Ariadne is coming home on Saturday. She’ll be so happy to see her.

The camera follows Javier as he leaves and goes next door to Dona Margarita’s house.

JAVIER

Dona Margarita, I’m here. I have some news. Ariadne is coming home this weekend. Yes, she passed her exam. She says her professor praised her term paper.

Javier approaches Dona Margarita in her rocking chair. He leans over, kisses her on the cheek, and whispers in her ear.

JAVIER

It’s a boy...

Dona Margarita crosses herself. She is elated.

DONA MARGARITA

Praise God! A boy! I’m so happy. Will you name him Eduardo after Ariadne’s and Harry’s father?

JAVIER

Yes, Dona Margarita.

DONA MARGARITA

You must be dying to see your son. Will Ariadne bring us some photos?

JAVIER

I’m sure she will.

Javier leaves and goes outside. His face shines in the moonlight. Birds twitter in the trees. It’s as though the universe is celebrating the birth of this child.

SCENE X EXT DAY SUNSHINE

Harry and Javier are riding in a car across the desert. Javier is driving while Harry sits alongside him, fingering a gun.

HARRY

Mother-fucker! I told you I never trusted that asshole.

JAVIER

How could you tell? He presented himself as one of us. His credentials were impeccable.

HARRY

You never looked into the asshole’s eyes. The eyes tell everything. If someone is lying, you see it in his eyes. If a liar looks you in the face, if his eyes dance, you can tell he’s not telling the truth. That fool thought he could fool us. Now, he’ll pay for it.

JAVIER

Come on, Harry. It wasn’t a big deal-he only took a little bit from us. He just want to have a little action on the side. Leave him alone.

HARRY

A little bit leads to a lot! If the other brothers know he got away with this, they might try it too. You’re too much of a woman, Javier, always crying for this person or that. You could never be the capo. You’re too soft.

JAVIER

I just think you’re overreacting. You wipe him out and six children will be without a father.

HARRY

Turn here. I told him to wait for us at the Indian burial ground. (He laughs) That way it will be easier to bury the mother-fucker.

Javier turns the car down a dirt road.

JAVIER

Aren’t you even going to let him plead his case? His sister has lupus-he needed the money to help with her medical expenses.

HARRY

Leave it to me...

They approach another car parked near the burial ground. A man waits near it, nervously fingering his hat. He walk forward to greet Harry and Javier. As they shake hands, the camera begin to scan the landscape and rises into the sky at the sound of a shot.

SCENE XI EXT. PATIO, NIGHT

Harry’s house is decorated for a party. The patio is festooned with Japanese lanterns and bouquets of flowers. A mariachi band is being playing. The occasion is Ariadne’s return to the family. Dona Margarita has been wheeled near to where the children are playing. Zunilda comes out to light the candles. Harry is standing at the barbecue with an apron and a chef’s hat on. He is whistling to the music and is in high spirits. Javier stands nearby nervously. Hearing the sound of a car, Rafeo jumps up.

RAFEO (JUBILANTLY)

She’s here. Auntie Arry is home!

Alejandra jumps up too. The children race through the house and out the front door where a limousine has pulled up. Ariadne steps out, and children leap into her arms.

RAFEO

Auntie, Auntie. You’re home! We missed you so. Did you bring us something?

ARIADNE (HAPPY)

(She kisses them both on their heads.) Yes, my dears. How lovely to see you again. I have some surprises for you...in my suitcase. Let me look at you. My goodness, how you both have grown! Raffy, you’re becoming a little Harry, and Lexy, you look more like Zunny every day...

Ariadne looks up and sees the rest of the family. She smiles lovingly at Javier and then gives Harry a winning smile. Zunilda and Xenobia stand just beyond-their smiles say just how happy they are to see her again. Ariadne goes to them, the children still clinging to her. She kisses Javier first, then Harry, then the rest.

JAVIER

My love, you look radiant. I’ve missed you so.

Harry holds Ariadne a little apart from him after he receives his kiss.

HARRY (ADMONISHINGLY)

Sister-you’ve put on weight! There must have been too many pastry shops on your way home from school, ha!

ARIADNE (DEFENSIVELY)

I can take it off. I was so busy studying that I didn’t work out...

HARRY

She looks as though she’s just given birth. (He laughs, and everyone who knows looks worried.) But, she’s only given birth to a dissertation. Ha! Now maybe our little scholar will be content to be a wife again.

XENOBIA

(stepping up and embracing Ariadne, to divert Harry from his discourse) Sister, you look just beautiful! Big city life must agree with you. We want to hear all about things in Mexico City...

ZUNILDA

(who has been awaiting her turn) Arry, you’ve been away too long! We’re having a little party to welcome you home. Dona Margarita’s waiting for you on the patio. Are you tired? Do you want to rest before you join us? Look at you-you’re just as pretty as ever.

ARIADNE

And so are you. I wouldn’t mind slipping into something more comfortable. Then I’ll be with you.

CHILDREN

Can we come with you? We want to see what you brought us.

SCENE XII EXT. NIGHT

Ariadne comes into the patio wearing a comfortable, cotton Mexican dress. The children follow her. Lexy is carrying a beautiful doll dressed in a traditional costume, Raffy, a blackberry.

RAFEO

Look what Auntie Arry brought me. Cool. Mommy, I can text message you when I’m at school.

ALEJANDRA

(not about to be outdone by her brother.) Look, Mommy. Isn’t she beautiful. I’ve already named her Ariadne after Auntie Arry.

Ariadne goes over to Dona Margarita, who is seated in her wheelchair. She kisses her on both cheeks.

DONA MARGARITA

Arry, it’s so good to see you again. How we’ve missed you! Here. Stand in front of me so I can put my hands on you. Yes? You’ve put on a pound or two, but you feel better than ever...

Dona Margarita reaches up and places her hands on Ariadne’s breasts. She looks concerned and says in a low voice. Since Harry is busy barbecuing he doesn’t hear his mother.

DONA MARGARITA (WHISPERING)

You’ve got to wear bras that will flatten you now and dresses that will hide your fullness. They hurt, no? Too much milk. That will only last for a little while. How’s my grandson?

ARIADNE (SOFTLY)

He’s just beautiful. He looks just like Javier.

HARRY

No secrets! You know I can’t stand secrets. I’m going to put micro-phones in all your rooms so I can hear what you are saying when I’m not home. Now, what are you two talking about that the rest of us can’t hear?

Ariadne looks up and laughs.

ARIADNE

If you must know Dona Margarita was just telling me that she’s plagued with constipation. I brought her some tea called Easy Movement. It will help her out. Now, are you happy? You’re so paranoid! You’re afraid your feet might know something your hands don’t.

HARRY

(sheepishly) I suppose you’re right. I just like to know what’s going on. It’s my business to know...

JAVIER

(teasing) Ariadne, come here. I want to tell you a secret...

Ariadne, laughing still, opens her large handbag.

ARIADNE

Look, I brought presents home for all of you. Harry, this is for you.

She hands him a wooden box, which he opens to find fine Cuban cigars inside.

HARRY

Now that’s the kind of present I like. I don’t like these computer gadgets. They’re too sterile.

As he takes the wrapper off one and lights it, Ariadne hands Javier his present. It’s a blackberry. He looks a little puzzled.

ARIADNE

So you can send me messages when I’m away...

She hands Xenobia a blackberry and gives Zunilda a bottle of Chanel #5. True to her word, she gives Dona Margarita a collection of teas, including Easy Movement.

HARRY

(tending to the steaks) They’re ready. Let’s eat. Zunny, where’s the plates? Come on, now, everyone take a plate...

As the party continues, Xenobia comes over and sits down next to Ariadne who’s sitting next to Javier.

XENOBIA

God, it’s good to see you! This tomb just isn’t any fun when you’re gone. Harry’s an absolute tyrant. Javier follows him around like his shadow. He’s not happy either when you’re away. How’s the kid? God, I wish I could see him...

ARIADNE

(laughing as though Xenobia has just told her the funniest story.) “He had a hat.” Isn’t that funny, Javier? Javier, you look a little thin. I’ve put on weight but you’ve lost some.

JAVIER

We’ve been working too much. We don’t celebrate like this when you’re not here. I have to police these contracts of Harry’s. I’m a policeman these days...

HARRY

(coming over as the Mariachi band starts playing. He extended his hand to Ariadne). Madame, may I have this dance?

ARIADNE (SMILING)

But of course.

She rises and Harry swoops her onto the dance floor. He is a consummate dancer so he swirls her around, whispering in her ear as they dance.

HARRY

You look good enough to eat. We’ll have some fun tonight. I love Zunny but I grow tired of her. I need the fun that you and Javier provide. Don’t be mad at me. It’s just that I love you so...

Javier watches them dance with a long face. Xenobia puts her arms around him and asks him to dance with her. Zunilda looks lovingly at her family taking pride that her party is a success. Dona Margarita rocks in her chair and hold up her glass.

DONA MARGARITA

Another Margarita, please.

To the sounds of the band the camera scans the family and rises into the night sky so it pans an aerial view of the patio, the house and night-time sky. The moon goes briefly behind some clouds.

SCENE XIII INT. DAY

The next day. It’s raining. Javier and Harry are lying together on a bed in darkened room, talking. They are lounging nude in each other’s arms. Harry is smoking a cigar.

HARRY

There. Now don’t you feel better? You’re turning into an old lady, Javier, always wanting the room swept, spending hours with your toilet, complaining about the least little thing. What’s eating at you? I know something is...

JAVIER

I dunno. Maybe I’m just tired. I’m glad to have Ariadne home. She looks great, huh?

HARRY

Yes, it’s great to have Ariadne home. Yes, she looks great, but, you’re begging the question. So what’s eating at you?

Javier turns his face to Harry with an expression of adoration and a hint of fear.

JAVIER (HESITANTLY)

It troubles me that she was away for long, and I never could get away to see her. It troubles me that I can never be alone with my wife without you being there. I love you more than anyone in the whole world. You know I do. I will do anything for you, but why ask these impossible things of us? Arry’s right. You’re getting more paranoid with every passing day...

HARRY

How many times must we discuss this? You make me into an ogre. I want you entirely for myself, but I’ve allowed you to marry Arry. Is it too much to ask that I be a part of your union?

JAVIER

It’s just not natural. How do think Ariadne feels about it? Why do you think she fled and has started to make another life for herself? She wants another life. Can you blame her?

HARRY

(getting riled) Look, Ariadne can do whatever she pleases. She’s not as necessary to me as you. So what if she lives in Mexico City? So what if she gets ten degrees? Come on, give me a kiss. Let’s get up, bath, eat, and take a long ride in the country. (snapping his fingers) Hugo!

When Hugo appears, Harry writes on his tablet. “Draw us some bath water and bring us lunch.”

HARRY

Javier, be happy. The day is young, and we are together. Tomorrow we must work. Let’s enjoy today.

JAVIER

(reluctantly) Harry, I want to ask you something.

HARRY

Yes...

JAVIER

Do you promise, no matter what, that you will always love Ariadne and me, that you will see that no harm comes to us?

HARRY

Yes, Yes. I promise. Now, are you happy? Come, my love, let’s have our bath.

SCENE XIII EXT. NIGHT

Javier and Harry are returning to the villa. They have been drinking and are in high spirits. When they get out of their car, a servant comes to them and says to Javier.

SERVANT

Javier, Dona Margarita wants to see you before you go to bed. If she talks to you, she says maybe she can get some sleep...

HARRY

Tell her it’s too late. Tell her to take a sleeping pill. The doctor prescribed some for her.

Harry stumbles on into the house, beckoning Javier to follow. The servant looks beseechingly at Javier...

JAVIER

It will only take a minute. (to the servant) Help Harry to bed, will you? I’ll be back in a little while.

Javier walks to Dona Margarita’s house and lets himself in. He walks over to Dona Margarita. As usual, she is sitting in her rocking chair. He leans over and kisses her on the cheek.

DONA MARGARITA

Javier, my son, I’m glad you came. Maria is waiting for you in my room. Please don’t disappoint her.

JAVIER

(with a smile on his face) Thanks, Dona Margarita. I’m not sure we should take another chance. What will Harry do if he finds out? What will he do to you?

DONA MARGARITA

Don’t worry about me. I’m old. It doesn’t matter if I live another day or for more ten years. I want you and Ariadne to enjoy yourselves...

JAVIER

You know what happened the last time...

DONA MARGARITA

Yes, and I rejoice that Eduardo was born. I am only sad that I have not been able to see him and hold him in my arms. Every night I send him my blessings. Go, now, you haven’t much time...

SCENE XIV INT NIGHT

Javier enters Dona Margarita’s bedroom and sees Ariadne lying nude on her bed. Since she knows Javier knows that it is her, this time she wears no veil. She holds out her arms to him.

ARIADNE

Javier, my love. Come to me. I’ve missed you so. Every day, every night I’ve longed for you. Eduardo looks just like you. I wish you could see him...

JAVIER

(taking her in his arms) Hush, my love. I long for you every minute of every passing day. I want to see your eyes, smell your hair, touch your body...

ARIADNE

Give me your love, my sweet.

Javier and Ariadne begin to make love. They roll around in the bed together, and Ariadne begins to laugh for joy.

JAVIER

Quiet, no one must hear us. We can’t let Harry know. I don’t know what he would do if he found out...

Later, when they are finished, they lie together in each other’s arms.

ADRIADNE

I can feel it. I’ve conceived again.

JAVIER (INCREDULOUS)

You know these things? Are you sure?

ARIADNE

What day is it today?

JAVIER

It’s Sunday, March 25th.

ARIADNE

It’s Conception Sunday! In another nine months, you wait and see, at Christmas time, I’ll bear you another son.

JAVIER

You already know that it will be boy? You have mystical powers.

For a while they indulge themselves in their fantasies.

JAVIER

What will we name this new son of ours?

ARIADNE

How about Fredrico? Fredrico Heraldo Allende. How does that sound to you?

JAVIER

Eduardo Chavez Allende and Fredrico Heraldo Allende, my sons. May they grow to be strong and mighty men. I hope that Fredrico will look just like you, my love, so that when I look at him, I will be able to see your lovely face. I want him to have your eyes, your hair, your smile...

Javier falls silent and his smile changes to a look of concern.

JAVIER

You’ll have to leave me again and go back to Mexico City. Will Pilar care for another child for us? You’re sure she would never betray us?

ARIADNE (UNCERTAIN)

She’ll love having another beautiful child to look after. No, I don’t think she would betray us. I don’t want to be away from you, but I want to raise my sons. When I Maybe I should stay in Mexico City so that they’ll have their mother with them...

JAVIER

Oh, Ariadne, that would be so hard for me-not to be able to see you or my sons. How will I be able to bear it?

ARIADNE

We can text-message each other every day. That way we wouldn’t have to worry about Harry taping our calls. I will tell you all about us. Harry hates technology. He won’t bother to pay attention to our toys. What do you think?

JAVIER

(sorrowfully) I wish I could go too, but I can’t. Harry needs me. He can’t handle the business alone. At least, he’s generous. You will have all the money you need. You won’t lack for a single thing...

ARIADNE

Except for you, my love. You must go now. I’ll shower here. Please be happy. Your new son is inside me. I’ll have another part of you. Hurry, before Harry wakes and finds that you aren’t next to him. I’ll follow shortly...

Reluctantly, Javier gets up, throws on his clothes and leaves. Ariadne takes her time dressing. Before she leaves the house, she goes to Dona Margarita and kisses her.

ARIADNE

Thank you, Dona Margarita. I have conceived again. I know that I have. You will have another grandson around Christmas time. We’re going to call him Fredrico.

DONA MARGARITA

Let the heavens rejoice! Now I can sleep. (She closes her eyes.)

SCENE XV INT. DAY

Zunilda is arranging flowers in a vase in the kitchen when Xenobia enters with an armful of flowers.

ZUNILDA

Oh, Xenny, please don’t cut any more flowers. They’re beautiful, but I’m running out of vases. Here, help me with these. You know, it’s so strange. You are the scholar in our family. I always thought you would be the one to go to college, get degrees, and have a career. I don’t understand why you stay with us. You should go somewhere and make a life for yourself. Why haven’t you married? People are starting to call you an old maid...

XENOBIA

It’s not that I haven’t wanted to leave-it’s just that, I don’t know, I feel that you and Harry need me here. And, you know I don’t really care for men. I like women.

ZUNILDA

Are you, how to do they say it, gay?

XENOBIA

I suppose I am. I just don’t like how men lord it over us. I never did. I have a girl friend, if you must know. I see her from time to time.

ZUNILDA (INTERESTED)

You do? You must tell me her name.

XENOBIA

I can’t do that, love. If I told you, you know her and you know where she lives. I know you, Zunilda. You wouldn’t be able to keep yourself from telling Harry. And if Harry knew, he would make all kinds of trouble for her and me. He and Javier may be lovers, but he’s not about to allow one of sisters to have a female lover. You know I’m right...

ZUNILDA

I know. Harry wants know everything, to control everything. He hates secrets. I hate secrets too. There are too many secrets in this family. Even the children keep things from me. They send each other text messages all day long. If I come and want to see what they are saying, they erase what they’ve written. It’s so frustrating. I want to know everything too. Oh, dear, it’s getting late. Xenny, please go and call the children-tell them they have to shower and dress for dinner. They’re in funk because Ariadne is leaving again. They don’t know why she won’t take them with her. I don’t know why either...

XENOBIA

Here, leave that. I’ll finish it for you. You have to go and get dressed too. Maria can set the table. Maria!

Zunilda leaves the kitchen and Xenobia stand at the sink absent mindedly putting flowers into another vase. She whistles and puts her hand to her brow.

XENOBIA

If you only knew. If you only knew...

SCENE XVI

The family is gathered around the table for dinner, Harry is sitting at one end and Zunilda at the other. Javier sits to Harry’s right and Ariadne to his left. The dinner party is boisterous. Since Harry is getting drunk, sometimes Javier and Ariadne look at one another, both happy and sad.

RAFEO

(looking at Ariadne accusingly) I don’t know why you won’t take me with you. Alejandra can stay here. She’s just a girl. I would be good. I would help you with you your studies. You know how smart I am.

ARIADNE

(looking at her nephew lovingly but a loss for words) I just can’t, Raffy. I’ll be too busy and you would be by yourself all day long.

RAFEO

No, I wouldn’t. Pilar would be home some of the time. I don’t mind being alone. I could explore the Mexico City on my own...

HARRY

You’re not old enough to go traipsing around on your own. When you’re older you can go to Mexico City, if you like, all by yourself. (turning to Ariadne) You see all the trouble you cause with your silly studies. You want to become a psychiatrist. How long will that take? If you want to analyze people, why don’t you analyze this family? That would be interesting, no? Ha!

ARIADNE

This family is one for the books. That’s for sure. Excuse me, please. I have a headache.

Ariadne gets up from her chair and goes upstairs to the bathroom. She doesn’t have a head ache. She’s nauseated from her pregnancy. She sits on the toilet wiping perspiration from her forehead with a wet washcloth, when Harry comes into the bathroom.

ARIADNE

Can’t I have any privacy? Really, Harry, you go too far.

HARRY

Soon you’ll have all the privacy you want. You know, I’ve been thinking. The business is okay for a few days. Why don’t Javier and I take you to Mexico City? It would be fun for all of us. We could take in some concerts and eat in some of my favorite restaurants. There’s few buddies I haven’t seen in a while. I might be able to drum up some business...

ARIADNE

(looking positively stricken) No, Harry, that wouldn’t work out for me. My classes start the day after tomorrow.

JAVIER

(standing at the doorway, he has overheard their conversation). We can’t go, Harry. I’ve just got a call from Ernesto. He says there’s trouble in Chihuahua over the Dell contract. There’s rumor of an strike. We have to go to Chihuahua tomorrow...

Ariadne gives Javier a look of pure gratitude.

ADRIADNE

Both of you, now, leave me alone, please. I’ll be down in a minute.

As they depart she gets up and looks at herself in the mirror. She crosses herself and sighs a sign of relief.

ARIADNE

(to herself) It’s only a matter of time before he finds out. What then?

NINE MONTHS LATER

SCENE XVII INT DAY

Pilar’s apartment in Mexico City. The apartment is decorated for Christmas. A tree strung with lights is in the alcove by the window. Ariadne comes through the front door holding her new baby in her arms. He is wrapped in a blanket. Pilar is sitting, holding the toddler on her lap.

PILAR

Give the baby to me. You must be exhausted. I’ll make us some tea...

ARIADNE

Yes, I tired, but happy. Look at him He looks just like me, just like I said he would.

PILAR

(putting Eduardo in a playpen and going over to take the baby from Ariadne so she can take her coat off. She smiles.) I have a surprise for you...

From behind the curtain which separates the living room from the bedroom, out steps Javier.

ARIADNE

(shocked) Javier! You came. How did you ever arrange it?

She goes over and embraces him.

JAVIER

We’ve only a little bit of time before Harry comes. I just had to see my sons. Harry, Zunny and the kids are at the hotel. Soon he’ll be here. We have to take the babies somewhere.

PILAR

We’ll take them next door to Katrina. We have to take their things.

There’s a knock at the door and everyone freezes, thinking it’s Harry. Pilar opens the door and is relieved to find Katrina and her teenage son there. There is a flurry of activity as they take the babies and all their paraphernalia next door. The babies are crying. Javier and Katrina’s teenage son struggle with the high chair, the play pen, and the cribs. Pilar carries the box containing all their clothes, and Ariadne fills another box with bottles and baby food. They no sooner clear the apartment of all vestiges of the babies when the doorbell rings again. Through the doors comes Harry, Zunilda, Rafeo and Alejandra.

HARRY

(dressed as Santa Claus and holding a box of presents in his arms) Ho! Ho! Ho! Felice Navidad! We couldn’t spend Christmas away from you, Ariadne. If Mohammed won’t go the mountain, the mountain will come to Mohammed, eh? Ha! So, this is where our little scholar lives? Hello, Pilar. Is our little wife behaving herself? I bet the two of you are out every night, no?

Ariadne comes to Harry, throws her arms around his neck and kisses him.

ARIADNE

Brother! You’ve come. How nice to see you!

She embraces Zunilda and gives her niece and nephew kisses.

HARRY (EXPANSIVE)

Forget about cooking. Tonight we dine at Casa de Carlo’s. I’ve made reservations. Tomorrow we’ll go to Chapultepec Park and the zoo. I’ve gotten tickets to the opera tomorrow night.

ARIADNE

How long are you staying?

HARRY

Three days. Then we have to get back to San Filipe. We’ve business to take care of there.

ZUNILDA

What a lovely apartment you have, Pilar. Harry wanted to come with Javier, but the kids and I told him they weren’t going without us.

PILAR

I’ll make some tea.

Harry follows her into the kitchen where, wouldn’t you know, he spots a bottle of half-eaten baby food.

HARRY

What’s this?

Pilar turns around and sees Harry holding the bottle.

PILAR

Oh, Katrina, my friend next door, has two babies. I take care of them for her some times, to give her a break...

HARRY

(smelling the bottle) For a minute I thought maybe you and Ariadne were eating baby food. How are you, Pilar? It’s been a while, no? You’ve lost weight...

PILAR

If I smoke, I don’t eat. (Changing the subject) You didn’t give us much warning, Harry. I’m glad to see you. You’re looking...ah...substantial these days.

HARRY (PREENING SLIGHTLY)

I could lose a pound or two, I suppose.

PILAR

You like the good life, don’t you.

She comes and embraces Harry in a manner that bespeaks a previous intimacy. Rafeo comes into the kitchen.

RAFEO

Daddy, can we ride the horses at the zoo? Mommy says to ask you.

HARRY

(expansive) You can ride the giraffes, the elephants, even the rhinoceri-whatever you and Lexie want to ride.

Harry picks up Rafeo and tosses him into the air. He hears the sounds of babies crying.

HARRY (GESTURING)

Do you have to listen to that all day? I couldn’t stand it...

In the living room Javier is sitting in a chair with Ariadne on his lap. Zunilda is at the window watching the traffic below. Ariadne and Javier look at each other. They are nervous.

ARIADNE (SOFTLY)

You really shouldn’t have come. That was a close call. I don’t want to have to go through that again...

JAVIER

It was Harry’s idea. He wanted to surprise you. Of course, I wanted to see you and my sons too. Hush. It’s okay.

ARIADNE

I’ve been having bad dreams. I should be happy and I am. Our sons are healthy and gorgeous, but I can’t help but worry...

Harry comes into the living room.

HARRY

Everyone take a seat. Open your presents. Why are those babies crying? Maybe I should go next door and shut them up...

JAVIER

It’s okay, Harry. I’ll ask Katrina to quiet them down. I’ll be right back.

Javier goes next door and knocks on Katrina’s door. When the door is opened he goes inside. He takes this opportunity to see his sons. After a while all is quiet and he returns.

HARRY

Javier, you’ve missed your calling. Maybe you should have been a nurse-maid. Ha! Here, my love, this is for you.

Harry hands Javier a small box, which he opens to find a Rolex watch.

HARRY (SMILING)

(smiling) Only the best for the best...

As Harry distributes presents to everyone, the apartment grows dark. Thunder and lightening outside. The wind rips into the apartment causing the curtains to blow. Pilar rushes to close the window. A jolt of electricity causes the Christmas tree to brighten and then fizzle, and the lights go out. The faces of the children show alarm.

Harry raises his arms to calm them. After a few minutes the lights come back on.

HARRY

There, the storm has passed. Soon the sun will come out. You’ll see... I’m hungry. Let’s go out for lunch.

He claps his hands for everyone to hustle and get ready.

SCENE XVIII INT DAY

Pilar and Katrina are having an argument. Katrina is insisting that Pilar pay her handsomely for taking care of the babies during Harry’s visit. Pilar is resisting.

PILAR

Surely a twelve thousand pesos should be adequate...

KATRINA

But, I kept them for three days! It was a real hardship. I don’t understand why you hid them from Ariadne’s family. It’s very strange. Javier and Ariadne are married, aren’t they?

PILAR (IRRITATED)

Yes, they’re married. All right. How much do you want?

KATRINA (SHYLY)

Twelve thousand should do it.

PILAR

I don’t have twelve thousand. Take this. I’ll get the rest to you in a couple days.

KATRINA

Can’t you ask Ariadne for the rest?

PILAR

She so stressed right now that I don’t want to ask her for anything. It’s all starting to be too much for me. At first I thought it would be okay, but I hardly have a moment to myself. Ariadne’s as much trouble as the babies. She has postpartum depression. She’s listless. She hardly wants to get up in the morning...

KATRINA (WILY)

Didn’t you tell me you had an affair with Harry once? Maybe you should ask him to help you. He’s so rich, so handsome, so macho. He probably wouldn’t mind helping you out.

PILAR

That was years ago, when we were both kids. I was very much in love with him. He was my first love. (thinking) Maybe I should ask him...

SCENE FIX EXT DAY

San Filipe. Xenobia is with her lover, Susanna. They are in the garden talking.

SUSANNA

You really shouldn’t stay here. You’re wasting away. There’s so much you could do. You’re smarter than Ariadne and Zunilda put together. Why don’t you go to Mexico City? This is no life for someone like you.

XENOBIA

I would, if you came with me.

SUSANNA

I can’t leave Carlos and the kids. It’s out of the question. If Carlos ever finds out about us, we’re done for. No, I can’t leave, but you could go. You could find someone else.

XENOBIA

I suppose I could, but I want you. To tell you the truth, I don’t really know why I stay in this little two-bit town. I’m bored to tears. It’s as though I’m frozen in place and I don’t really understand why. I keep thinking Harry needs me, or that he’s going to need me. All I do is garden, read and visit you. Here’s another book for you.

Xenobia hands Susanna novel. It’s Balzac's Cousin Bette.

SUSANNA

I’m not a reader like you are, but, come, tell me about it.

XENOBIA

It’s all about revenge. This courtesan ruins the lives of about six people. You get so mad at her you starting wishing someone would kill her. Balzac was a realist-I was afraid this woman was going to get away with all her evil-doing, but, guess what? God is just. In the end she gets her just desserts...

SUSANNA

Now, you see, I don’t have to read it. I can always get a plot summary from you. Since you’re so bored, why don’t you write a novel? There’s material in your dysfunctional family. Surely, there’s a story there.

XENOBIA

I’m sure there is. You know, that’s not a bad idea...

SCENE EX INT DAY

Harry’s talking on the phone. The camera keeps changing from Harry at his home in San Filipe to Pilar in Mexico City. Pilar thinks she is helping. She really doesn’t understand what’s at stake, because Ariadne hasn’t fully explained it to her. She has decided to inform Harry about Javier and Ariadne’s children!

HARRY

Say that again! I don’t understand what you are telling me.

PILAR

The babies next door. They’re not Katrina’s kids. They belong with Ariadne and Javier.

HARRY

What? You’ve got to be kidding me.

PILAR (PLEADING)

I need your help, Harry. Katrina wants twelve thousand pesos for taking care of them. I don’t have money. I can’t ask Ariadne. She’s so depressed that she hardly gets out of bed these days. She keeps complaining about having bad dreams. Some times she hugs her babies and cries. I’m at my wit’s end. Please help me, Harry. For old time’s sake, help me.

HARRY

Easy stuff. I’ll wire you the money within the hour. Please tell Ariadne that I want to see her. Tell her to book herself on the first flight home she can get. I’ll pay you to take care of the babies...

Harry throw the phone down, walks out onto the balcony overlooking the sea, and sits down at the table. Hugo follows him and ask if he wants anything.

HARRY

(wiping his eyes with a napkin then writes) Bring a glass, ice, Jack Daniels and lime.

Hugo bows and exits, while Harry drums his fingers on the table. His face is dark and he looks terribly displeased.

HARRY

(to himself) They thought they could fool me. I’ll show them.

He takes a rifle and shoots at a bird flying overhead. The bullet arrests a bird’s flight and it drops into the sea.

SCENE SIX INT. DAY

Pilar and Ariadne are in her apartment.

ARIADNE

(stricken) You what?

PILAR

I told Harry. He wants you to take the first flight you can get back to San Filipe. You’re to leave the babies here.

ARIADNE (SHAKING HER HEAD IN DISMAY)

You don’t know what you have done.

PILAR

How long did you think you could play this charade and keep it from him? He would have found out sooner or later. You know he would...

ARIADNE (STUNNED AND LISTLESS)

I suppose you’re right...

PILAR

I simply don’t understand why you thought you had to keep this from him.

ARIADNE

You may have known Harry once, but you don’t know him now. He’s changed. He’s become more deadly. Now you’re going to have to do something else for me...

PILAR

(seeing just how pale Ariadne is) Sure, honey, relax. Everything will be okay. You’ll see. What do you want me to do?

ARIADNE (EARNESTLY)

As soon as I leave, please take Eduardo and Fredrico to a hotel. Don’t tell anyone, not a soul, where you are going? Not a soul! I’ll send some money to Katrina for you. Stay there until you hear from me. Will you do it?

PILAR

I’ll do whatever you say. I just don’t understand what this is all about...

SCENE XXII INT. DAY

Ariadne is talking to Javier on the phone.

ARIADNE

He knows.

JAVIER

Who told him?

ARIADNE

Pilar. She thought she was doing us a favor. She didn’t understand...

JAVIER

(trying to be philosophical) I suppose he would have found out sooner or later. Are you coming home?

ARIADNE

I’ll be home tonight. We’ll have to face the music together. I love you, Javier.

JAVIER

And I you...

Javier hangs up the phone and goes to sit down on the couch. He looks positively deflated. He picks up a statue of bull fighter and turns in his hands, then jumps up and runs out of the house, before Harry can confront him. He goes next door to Dona Margarita’s house to tell her the awful news. She’s asleep in her chair. She looks like a little doll and is peaceful.

JAVIER

(kissing her) Dona Margarita, wake up. I have to tell you something.

DONA MARGARITA

Javier, is that you. I was having the most beautiful dream. I dreamt Eduardo had come for me. There was this beautiful dress that he wanted me to wear...

JAVIER

Dona Margarita, brace yourself. I have bad news. Harry knows about Eduardo and Fredrico!

DONA MARGARITA

(grasping her chest) Oh, no. I was afraid this would happen. How did he find out?

JAVIER

Pilar told him.

DONA MARGARITA

I knew we couldn’t trust her. Part of her loyalty was always to Harry. My son, we’re done for...

She picks up her rosary and begins to pray fervently. (Then she looks at Javier.)

DONA MARGARITA

My fate doesn’t matter. I’m ready to die. I’ve lived long enough. I want to be with Senor Eduardo. If you want to do something for me, please kill me...before Harry does...when he finds out that I helped you. I don’t matter, but I’m afraid for you. I don’t know Harry anymore. He’s become some kind of monster. I say that even though he’s my own son...

JAVIER

I’m leaving, Dona Margarita. I’m going to drive out into the desert to clear my head...

Javier leaves and Dona Margarita gazes into the far distance.

DONA MARGARITA

God help us. God help us all. Forgive me, Lord, for what I’m going to do.

She opens a small pill box and takes out a small black pill.

DONA MARGARITA

Maria! Please bring me a pot of camomile tea and my favorite cup. I’m tired and I’m going to sleep...

SCENE XXIII EXT. DAY

Harry alone on his terrace. He is in a rage over the news. He walks back and forth like a caged animal, talking to himself and gesturing wildly.

HARRY

Who do they think I am that they can pull the wool over my eyes like that? I am the king, the king! I was generous with them-I let them marry. I could have said no. Whatever I say goes...They know that.

All I asked of them was their loyalty, but they went behind my back...My own mother helped to deceive me. I am the king! No one puts one over on me. Now they will have to pay. All of them will have to pay for what they have done to me!

He slams his hand into his fist just as Zunilda walks out on the terrace. Seeing him in such a disturbed state she goes to him.

ZUNILDA

Harry, dear, what’s wrong? I’ve never seen you so distraught. Tell me what’s wrong.

HARRY

They deceived me! They thought they could make a fool of me, me, the king!

ZUNILDA

Who deceived you?

HARRY

Javier and Ariadne! My own mother helped to deceive me.

ZUNILDA

But how? Javier and Ariadne love you...

HARRY

All I asked of them, all I asked of them was that they never be together without my being there! Was that too much to ask? They did it anyway... they went behind my back.

ZUNILDA

How do you know? What proof do you have?

HARRY

The proof is as big as life. They have two children, children who were conceived in private, behind my back. Dona Margarita aided in the deception. They will pay for this, if it’s the last thing I do.

ZUNILDA

But where are the children?

Harry looks at Zunilda as though she’s an idiot.

HARRY

(scornfully) Do you really think Ariadne wanted to go to Mexico City to study? She’s no scholar. I should have seen through it. Now if Xenobia said she wanted to be a scholar, it would’ve made sense. (He talking to Zunilda but really to himself.) She got pregnant and went to Mexico City so that I wouldn’t know about it. So I wouldn’t know about the child...

ZUNILDA

How did you find out about it?

HARRY

Pilar called me and told me. Pilar takes care of them...

ZUNILDA

(confused) Children? I thought you said they have a child.

HARRY

I said children and I mean children. As if one was not enough, they did it again! Now they have two. They must think me very stupid. I’ll show them who the stupid ones are...

ZUNILDA

(fearfully) Calm down, Harry. Get a hold of yourself. What’s so wrong with Javier and Ariadne having some kids? After all, they’re married. Now Raffy and Lexy will have some cousins to grow up with...

HARRY

No! They will not grow up and play with our children! I will not have it. They will pay for this!

ZUNILDA

What will you do, Harry?

HARRY

(threateningly) First, I’m going to Mexico City to see my nephews...

Zunilda is thoughtful then resolved.

ZUNILDA (LEVELLY)

Harry, we’ve been married for eight years. You know I love you, but, if you do any harm to Javier, Ariadne, or their babies, I swear to you, I’ll take Alejandra and Rafeo and we will leave you. We will leave you and never come back...

Zunilda slumps over the terrace table and begins to cry.

ZUNILDA

This is all so unnecessary...

HARRY

If that’s what you will do, then I consider you a traitor too. Leave me then. I would rather be alone than with a woman who’s not loyal to me. I am the king! Go then, take the kids and get away from my sight...

ZUNILDA

(bowing but with resolve) As you wish...as you wish.

Harry is not pacified. Looking murderous he enters the house, leaving Zunilda alone on the terrace.

HARRY

(shouting at the top of his lungs) Hugo! Where are you? (He see a servant girl and grabs her by the wrist) Maria, go and find Hugo. Tell him I want to see him. Quick. Be off.

SCENE XXIV EXT. DAY

Javier drives in front of the house in his sports car. He gets out of the car. He looks completely drained. Zunilda sees that he has come and runs out of the house to him.

ZUNILDA

Javier, you must leave now! Go into hiding! Harry knows. He’s threatening revenge. He’s in the bedroom now packing...

JAVIER

Where’s he going?

ZUNILDA

He says he’s going to Mexico City to see his nephews...

JAVIER

Where’s Ariadne?

ZUNILDA

She’s still at Pilar’s. Harry told her to come home immediately.

JAVIER

Is she coming home then?

ZUNILDA

She said she would. When she tried to talk to him, he hung up on her. He called her a traitor, a whore. He thinks you’re a traitor too. He even called me a traitor...

JAVIER

You? What have you done?

ZUNILDA

I told him that if any harm comes to any of you I will take the children and leave him. That’s why he thinks that I’m a traitor...

JAVIER

Does Dona Margarita know about this?

ZUNILDA

Yes, she knows... Harry says she betrayed him too...

JAVIER

I’m going to see Dona Margarita. Then I’ll hide somewhere close by, so that when Ariadne returns I can be with her.

ZUNILDA

Stay out of his way, at least until he returns from Mexico City. I’m afraid if he sees you now, he’ll kill you.

Javier walks over to Dona Margarita’s house and lets himself in. He sees Dona Margarita is slumped in her rocking chair. He approaches and calls out her name.

JAVIER

Dona Margarita. Dona Margarita. Are you okay?

When there is no response from the old lady he comes around to face her. He sees that she is slumped and motionless. He puts his hand in front of her nose to ascertain whether she is still breathing. Her entire face is slack and he suspects the worst.

JAVIER

(to himself) She’s dead. Dona Margarita’s dead. She probably took the arsenic pill she had. Oh, Dona Margarita. Maybe it’s for the best. I don’t think you would want to live to see what is going to happen to our family...

Javier doesn’t know quite what to do. It would be too risky to go back to the house and tell them that Dona Margarita is dead. It seems like an abandonment to leave her and go into hiding. He sits down in the chair across from her body and puts his head in his hands. He can hear Harry shouting from their house and knows that he’s in danger. Finally he gets up and slips out the back door. He goes through the thick hedge of oleander at the back edge of the garden...Just in time too, as Harry enters his Dona Margarita’s house.

HARRY

Dona Margarita, you harlot, you bitch! How could you betray me like this?

Harry approaches her chair and seeing her dead he rants.

HARRY

So, you old witch, you beat me to it, did you? I wish I could make you come back to life so I can personally kill you. Then you could be twice dead. Ha! You may have given me life, but you’ve also given me death. You pretended to be so wise... We’ll see how wise you were...

Harry kicks at her, and then falling to his knees, begins to pummel her head and body with blows. He looks up...

HARRY

Are you laughing at me? No body laughs at me, not even you.

There are tears running down his face. Hugo appears in the house. He goes over to Harry and helps him to his feet. Pointing to his watch, he shows Harry there isn’t much time before their plane leaves. Hugo leads Harry from the house.

SCENE XXV INT DAY

Pilar is in a hotel room in Mexico City with both babies. The baby is asleep in the bassinet, and the toddler is playing with some toys on the floor. Pilar is sitting, drumming her fingers on the table, smoking a cigarette, and looking quite worried. There’s a knock at the door. At first Pilar doesn’t go to open it. She snatches the toddler onto her lap and hushes the baby with her hand over his mouth. Another knock...

HARRY

Pilar, open up! I know you’re there. It’s Harry. I want to see you. If you don’t open the door, I’ll knock it down. Open the door!

PILAR

(looking defeated) puts the toddler in his playpen and goes to open the door.

Harry and Hugo stand there. Harry is well dressed. In his arms is a pile of presents. Were it not for the wild look in his eyes, he could be paying her a courtesy call.

PILAR

Harry, it’s you. I knew you would come...how did you find us?

HARRY

Easy stuff. I want to see the children. I came to see my nephews...

PILAR

(tentatively) Okay. Let me make some tea...

HARRY

Do you have anything stronger? Do you have some whiskey?

PILAR

Yes, I’ll get you some.

Hugo follows Harry into the apartment and stands aside with his hands clasped, as though he’s invisible. Pilar goes to get the whiskey and a glass for Harry. Harry sits down and gazes at the child in the playpen and towards the bassinet. The toddler looks up from playing and gazes at Harry mildly.

Pilar returns and begins to pour Harry a drink but her hand is trembling.

HARRY

Here, give me that. What’s the matter with you? I just came to see my nephews.

PILAR

It’s okay. I’m just a little nervous...

HARRY

(looking around) Where’s Ariadne?

PILAR

She left. She left as soon as you called. She didn’t feel up to it, but I told her she must go.

HARRY

(collecting himself) Now, then. Let me see the older boy first. See, I brought presents for them...

Pilar get up and goes over to the playpen. Already the toddler has stood and is crying holding on to the bars of the pen but trying to wave his hands at the same time. Pilar picks him and hugs him.

PILAR

There. There. It’s just your Uncle Harry. He’s come to see you...

Harry holds out his hands to the child. Pilar walks over and places him in his lap. Harry jiggles the boy on his knees. There are tears running down Harry’s face. The child, seeing Harry cry, doesn’t know quite what to do, so he cries too.

HARRY

(looking towards Pilar) He’s a little Javier. Hey, little man, what’s your name?

PILAR

His name is Eduardo. Eduardo Javier. Isn’t he lovely? (thinking she can win Harry over) He’s such a good boy too. I take one look at him and I can see what a fine young man he’s going to be, just like his father...

HARRY

Eduardo. That was his grandfather’s name and my father’s name too. My father was the capo, just like me. What do you say, Eduardo?

The child merely looks at Harry with a solemn expression.

HARRY

I brought you something, Eduardo. Do you want to see what your Uncle Harry brought you?

He picks up a big box from the table and puts it into the child’s lap. Dismayed by the size of the box, which almost as big as he is, Eduardo begins to cry again.

HARRY

There. There. Don’t cry. Don’t you want to see what’s inside? Let’s see what Uncle Harry brought you.

Harry unties the ribbon and places it on the table. Then he carefully, methodically, removes the paper, folds it, and places it on the table too. With an expression of curiosity he lifts the lid of the box, and there inside, cushioned in bright pink tissue paper is a stuffed monkey. He lifts the monkey out, puts the box on the floor, and the monkey onto Eduardo’s lap.

HARRY

It’s little monkey, just like you. Here-put your arms around him and give him a kiss.

Harry shows Eduardo how to kiss the monkey and the child squeals happily.

PILAR

Let me get a picture of this, Harry, a picture of the three of you...

Harry poses with Eduardo on his lap and the monkey on Eduardo’s lap while Pilar snaps their photograph.

HARRY

(picking up a stuffed banana that is attached to the monkey with a string, he puts the banana to the monkey’s mouth) Yum, yum, yum, the monkey likes banana. Do you want to eat some banana too?

Eduardo opens his mouth and Harry puts the banana in his. Eduardo looks surprised when he finds the banana is not real. Harry laughs uproariously, then begins to cry again. Sensing just how dangerous Harry is, Pilar looks towards Hugo, but Hugo is totally impassive. Harry takes the monkey from Eduardo. Standing and holding both the child and the monkey, he takes them and puts them into the playpen. He returns to the table, sits, and takes another swig of whiskey. To Pilar...

HARRY

Bring me the other one...

Pilar goes to the bassinet and picks up the sleeping baby, who is only a few weeks old. She wraps a blue blanket around him, coos to him and places him in Harry’s arms.

HARRY

(his manner quite avuncular) Let me see what you look like?

He opens the blanket so he can better see the baby. Though still very young, the baby has thick dark hair and black eye lashes. Holding his hands around the baby’s middle, Harry raises the baby into the air. The child responses as though he has dropsy and wants to remain asleep.

HARRY

You’re just like your mother. You have her hair and eyes. What you like best, besides eating, is sleeping, just like your mother. What’s your name?

PILAR

His name is Fredrico. Fredrico Heraldo. He looks just like Ariadne but he’s been named for you...

HARRY

Fredrico! You little bunny. Let me show you what I brought you.

He takes a second box from the table and unwraps it as methodically as he did the first one. When he removes the lid, there inside, nestled in orange tissue paper, is a large green turtle. When he nestles the turtle on the baby’s stomach, the baby opens his eyes sleepily, gazes at the object and then closes his eyes again. Harry gives the baby back to Pilar who returns him to his bassinet. He cries some more, dabbing his eyes with his handkerchief, takes another swig from the bottle, and looks at Pilar.

HARRY

Pilar, why don’t you take a walk?

PILAR (HESITANTLY)

But, why?

HARRY

I want to be alone with my nephews. Take an umbrella with you. It’s raining outside. Go and treat yourself to lunch somewhere...

He holds out a 1000 peso note to her. She takes it fearfully, looking at the children.

HARRY

Don’t come back for an hour or so, okay? Come back at 4. Okay?

Pilar puts a light-weight coat on. Glancing around the hotel room she leaves. Hugo still stands quietly nearby.

HARRY

(beckoning to Hugo to come forward) Did you bring the pillows?

Hugo nods and puts two enormously large pillows on the table.

HARRY

You know what you have to do, don’t you?

Hugo nods, and Harry drys his eyes...

HARRY

Then do it... I’ll wait for you in the car.

Harry gets up and leaves the apartment.

SCENE XXVI INT DAY

Pilar returns to the hotel room. She sees that Harry and Hugo are gone. She looks at the playpen where Eduardo’s body is lying there as though he’s gone to sleep. He looks like a little angel. She walks over to Fredrico’s bassinet and finding him too lifeless, she screams.

PILAR

Oh, no! No, no, no! My God, my God! What have you done, Harry? To your own flesh and blood? Please help me, Lord.

She walks to the phone to call Ariadne but as she lifts the receiver, she faints and falls to the floor. The wind blows a gust of air through the window lifting the curtains...

SCENE XXVII EXT DAY

Harry’s black Mercedes pulls up in front of his villa and he disembarks, wearing a black leather jacket and sun glasses. His face is grim with heavy lines. He enters the house and goes to his study. He sends for Ariadne. (She returned some time ago. Ariadne knows the fate of her children as she has spoken to Pilar. She suspects that her life too is in danger.) She enters Harry’s study at once defeated and defiant. Harry chair is turned away from her and he is looking out the window. He has a tangerine in his hand, which he is throwing into the air and catching. Ariadne stands quietly at the far end of the room.

HARRY

(his back is still to her) So, the little scholar has come home. The little pretend scholar, who never liked to read a book. Let me see you. (He swivels his chair around so that he’s facing her.

Ariadne stands at the end of room wearing a scarlet robe; her hair has been brushed away from her face, which is pale with grief and resolve. She says nothing to Harry; her look is contemptuous.

HARRY

(feigning innocence) What’s the matter, my pet? You look at though you’ve seen a ghost.

ARIADNE

Cut it out, Harry. Now that you have killed my children, what can you do to me? Will you murder me too? Javier? You can’t hurt me because I’m already dead. I died when Eduardo and Fredrico died. I am a ghost. You used to be my brother, but now you are a monster...

HARRY (MENACINGLY)

What did you think would happen when you defied me? Did you think I would let you get away with it? You and Javier should have thought more about the consequences of your actions...

ARIADNE

You think you can control everyone, Harry, but you can’t. To begin with your stupid stipulations were impossible. Javier and I were only exercising our right as each other’s spouse... Do you think signing your little agreement would make us feel differently? All you succeeded in doing was to make us hate you...

HARRY

I should have never let you marry...

ARIADNE

Do you think you could prevent us from loving each other? Do as you wish to me. You’ve already taken my life.

Harry, furious, stands and claps his hands for Hugo. Hugo let himself into the study and stands with his hands folded in front.

HARRY

Take her away, Hugo.

Hugo writes on a his tablet and passes it to Harry to read.

HARRY (IRRITATED)

(reading) I don’t care where you bury her! Throw her into the desert and let the wild dogs eat her flesh for all I care.

Hugo goes to Ariadne, who does not resist him. He lifts her, carries her from the study and to the pool, where he submerges her underwater until she is drowned. The red sleeves and sash of her robe and her black hair artfully float to the surface of the water. Tenderly Hugo lifts her from the water and carries her to the car parked in front of the villa. He lays her in the back seat and drives away. His expression is impassive. He will do his master’s biding without question.

SCENE XXVIII INT NIGHT

Harry is still sitting at his desk in his studio, now filing his fingernails. He seems lost in thought. There is a knock at the door. He looks up...

HARRY

Yes...

JAVIER

It’s me, Harry, Javier.

HARRY

Come in...

Javier let himself into the studio. His body is scratched and sweaty as though he has just come through a bramble patch. His face is flushed and he’s out of breath. He looks at Harry beseechingly.

HARRY

Javier, where have you been?

JAVIER

I came to tell you that I’m sorry. I came to apologize to you. I want to make it up to you? What can I do to make things right between us?

HARRY

Do you love your sons?

JAVIER

What kind of a question is that? Of course I love my sons.

HARRY

They’re gone. Do you love Ariadne?

JAVIER

Of course I love Ariadne.

HARRY

She’s gone too. Do you love me? More than your sons and Ariadne? Be honest. For once in your life, be honest.

JAVIER

Of course I love you. I’ve always loved you, Harry. You know I have.

HARRY

According to Ariadne, you hate me.

JAVIER

She hated you. I didn’t hate you. Even when you made me unhappy, I still loved you. What do you want from me?

Harry laughs. He leans back in his chair and undoes his trousers. He lifts his penis out which has a fine erection. Holding his penis in his hand...

HARRY

Get down on your hands and knees, Javier. On you hands and knees and bark like a dog...

Javier get down on his hands and knees and barks like a dog.

HARRY

Louder, louder. Now, howl, howl at the moon. That’s right. Howl!

Javier howls.

HARRY

Now, come here, my pet. Stay on your knees. Crawl to me. I want to pet you.

Javier crawls over to Harry who pets him as if he is a dog. There is fear in Javier’s eyes. He is not defiant as was Ariadne. He is hoping to appease Harry.

HARRY

There, now, down boy. Good boy. That’s a good boy. Now, suck my dick. Suck my dick. Good boy. Oh, that’s good. So good... More. Do it some more...

Javier does what Harry asks of him.

Later...

Javier and Harry are lying together on Harry’s bed. They are both smoking cigarettes and drinking wine. Harry looks more relaxed though the wild glint has not left his eyes. Their hands are interlaced. Javier tries to feign that he is relaxed but he doesn’t trust Harry.

HARRY

Now do you feel better?

JAVIER

A little bit better. I’d like to go Mexico City-to get Ariadne’s things, only for a few days.

HARRY

We must ask the astrologer...

Harry picks up a daily newspaper and turns to the astrology section. He knows Javier is a Cancer so he reads his horoscope for the day.

HARRY

Let me see. “Cancer: Stay close to home today. Take care of the home front. Water your plants. Wash out your underwear. It’s not a propitious for you to travel. Wait until the moon reaches its first quarter on Tuesday or Wednesday. Watch your back. You have enemies...” No, Javier, I believe it’s a bad day for you to travel. Better stay and go to church tomorrow. By Tuesday the time will be more propitious...

Javier is puzzled but he dares not question Harry.

JAVIER

I’ve got to go now...

HARRY

I’ll walk you to your car...

The two of them dress and walk through the villa and out the front door to Javier’s car. Harry opens the door for him and Javier get in. Harry leans over and gives Javier a kiss on the lips. Javier hopes this is a sure sign that he is still in favor with Harry...

SCENE XXIX INT. DAY

Javier is in Pilar’s apartment in Mexico City. The two of them have just returned from burying his sons. Javier looks very tired but he is still quite handsome.

PILAR

I had no idea. All Ariadne told me was that Harry didn’t think it right time for you to have children...

JAVIER (RESIGNED)

There’s nothing we can do now...

PILAR

Do you think Harry has had his revenge? Is he still thirsting for blood, your blood?

JAVIER

I don’t know. All I know is that I can’t relax. I see a cat and I jump.

There’s a knock at the door. Pilar opens it and takes a letter from a messenger. She gives the letter Javier who opens it, reads, and then looks at her.

JAVIER

Harry wants me to come back. He says Hugo’s to accompany me back to San Filipe. Hugo waiting in the car downstairs. We’re to take the 10 p.m. plane.

PILAR

(embracing Javier) Oh, Javier. I fear for you. Harry’s lost his mind. He’s capable of anything.

JAVIER

I know...

Javier removes Pilar’s arms from his neck, goes into the bedroom to pack his little overnight bag.

SCENE XXX INT. NIGHT

Harry has put up a Turkish tent in his villa. He is standing in it with a whip in his hand. Sweat is streaming down his face. From time to time, he bites the handle of the stick. He looks at his watch and snaps the whip in the air.

Outside the inner rooms are Javier and Hugo. Javier throws himself on the ground and implores Hugo for mercy...

JAVIER

Don’t forget all the gifts I’ve given you-your car, your house. I even found your wife for you. I bring your children presents. I’m your second boss, Hugo. Please spare me. Let me run off into the desert and you’ll never see me again, but I’ll continue to send you money. Every month I’ll send your 300,000 pesos, Hugo. That’s not a small amount.

Hugo takes his tablet and writes: “If I don’t kill you, Harry will kill me.”

JAVIER

Don’t kill me here. Take me to him. He’ll not kill me if he sees me...

Hugo writes: “I dare not face Harry without your head. There is no chance for you!”

JAVIER

Then give me a little more time. Go to him and tell him that you have done his bidding. See what he says. After that, do whatever has to be done. If you will do that, then God and his angels are my witnesses, I will give you half of what I have...

Hugo writes: “Stay here then.” He motions another body guard to come forward and watch over Javier while he goes to Harry, who sitting like the Caliph in his tent.

Hugo write on his tablet: “I have done your bidding.”

HARRY (IMPERIOUSLY)

Then where is his head?

Hugo writes: “It is outside.”

HARRY

Bring it to me.

There is nothing left for Hugo to do but obey the order. He returns to Javier and writes on his tablet: “God willing, you won’t feel a thing.” Then he draws a huge sword from his buckle and motions for his men to hold Javier down. He raises the sword and as he brings it down. All the viewer sees is a white light.

Hugo returns to Harry holding Javier’s head by the hair. He throws it at Harry’s feet. There is a moment of silence as Harry gazes at the familiar head. He bursts into strange, animal-like sobs. He screams and shouts at the head as though he expects it to answer him, all the time digging the handle of his whip deeper into the ground. Fade.

SOME TIME LATER...

SCENE XXXI INT. NIGHT

Harry’s asleep in his bed. He tosses and turns and then abruptly awakes. He clutches his throat as though he’s being strangled.

HARRY

Xenny! Please come...

Xenobia comes into his bedroom with a robe thrown loosely about her. Her eyes are questioning.

HARRY

I dreamt of Javier. He was wearing the saffron colored robe. He was chasing me. No matter how fast I ran, he was right behind me. He said he wanted his other half. I said no. I fell and he fell on top of me. He wanted me to take the robe from me. I said no again. We began to wrestle and I could not tell which arms and legs were mine and which were his...I woke up...

XENOBIA

(as though comforting a child) There. There. Harry. It was just a dream. Now go back to sleep. I’ll sing to you, so that you can sleep.

HARRY

I can’t sleep any more. I’m afraid of sleep... Yesterday I dreamt I was drowning. Javier’s head was watching me and laughing. He said he couldn’t save me this time because he didn’t have a body...

Harry gets up from bed. He has aged considerably in a short period of time. He had a stroke a short time ago and the left side of his body is paralyzed and withered. There is grey in his hair and his once handsome face is lined and looks old and unhappy. He dons his striped robe and leaves Xenobia sitting next to his bed. Sadly she shakes her head.

Harry walks through his villa-the rooms that were once filled with life are now deserted. There are no lights on but we can see the shapes of things and the moonlight coming through the windows. A wind whips through the house, and dust balls rise and spin about. Harry walks into the kitchen and opens the refrigerator. He pours himself a glass of milk. He returns to the living room and lights a fire in the fire place. He goes into his study and finds some photographs and the robe with two openings at the collar.

Carrying it as though it is something sacred he returns to the fire place. First he looks at the photos, those Pilar took of him and the babies. He tears them and throws them into the fire.

He opens the robe and looks at it. Then he wads it up angrily and throw it into the fire. The robe, catching flame, cackles and rises. It’s as if Harry can see Javier rising up in the robe. Javier beckons to Harry and begins laughing.

HARRY

Damn you, Javier. Why did you betray me? If you weren’t already dead I would kill you again.

Harry begins to lash at the flames to destroy the robe all the faster. Xenobia comes and takes hold of him, embraces him, and leads him back to his chair. Harry sits for a while and then he gets up again. Xenobia watches him.

HARRY

I need to walk. I’ll be okay. What time is it?

XENOBIA

(looking at her watch) It’s 4:30 in the morning. The sun will be up soon. You need some sleep.

HARRY

I’m going out on the terrace. I’ll watch the sun come up. You can come with me if you like.

Harry and Xenobia go out on the terrace and sit so that they are facing the sea. It’s still dark but there’s a tiny bit of light at the horizon. There’s a full moon in the sky which is reflected on the water.

HARRY

(to Xenobia) So, Xenny, it’s just you and me now. Everyone else is gone. Dona Margarita’s gone. Zunny, Lexy and Raffie are gone. Ariadne is gone and Javier, damn him, is gone too. You’re the only one I have left. Why do you stay with me, Xenny?

XENOBIA

Because you need me. I can’t leave you now.

HARRY

I’m 39 years old, and I’m an old man...

XENOBIA

You haven’t enjoyed a single day of happiness since you put Javier to death. Why? Why? Why did you kill him?

HARRY

If I thought my garments knew the reason, I would tear them apart!

XENOBIA

When Javier died a part of you died too.

HARRY

Half of me is gone now. Thank you, Xenny. Leave me now. I want to be alone...

Xenobia comes and kisses Harry on the head. Then she turns and leaves.

Harry sits watching the sun rise over the sea. The scene is much the same as it was at the movie’s beginning. Life is stirring on the beach. Night fishermen are hauling their boat onto the sand. Seagulls are flying overhead and landing on the sea. They caw and chase one another. The taco man is frying tacos for a new day.

The philosopher walks the boardwalk, prophesying doom:

PHILOSOPHER

“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate them one from another as shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, and he will place the sheep at his right hand, but goats at his left...”

It’s questionable whether Harry can hear the philosopher or not. He sits watching the morning sunrise. For once he is dry eyed. When he killed those whom he most loved, he lost his ability to cry.

The dancer walks again onto the beach. First she sits facing the rising sun. She salutes it. Then, slowly she takes her scarf from her neck and rises. She does a cart-wheel. Gracefully, she dances to the rising sun. Her dance symbolizes the passage of time.

FADE

THE END