Tony and Starks are changing in the locker room when Frankie walks by.

Starks: Hey Francis, you happen to see the TD bomb my boy threw in practice?

Frankie: Nah, man. Can’t say I did. (Keeps walking and passes a teammate).

Larry: You ready knock some heads together tomorrow, Frankie?

Frankie: Yeah, I am. Don’t know about you though, twinkle toes.

Larry: What’s that supposed to mean?

Frankie; Come on man, you’re just the kicker. Save the tough talk for the people who actually get their jersey dirty.

Larry: (Disgusted) Whatever.

Frankie: (Keeps walking) Just do me a favor and try not to mess up my extra points.

Carmine: (Sneaking up on him) Kickers - just an excuse for coaches not to go for it on fourth down.

Frankie: Hey Dad. Whatcha doing here?

Carmine: I have some business to take care of with Bill. Nothing big.

Frankie: Cool. Well I’d better get running. Got homeroom.

Carmine: Alright. I’ll see you back home after practice. (Frankie goes) Oh, hey Tony.

Tony: Hey. (Gives Carmine a suspicious look as he enters Coach Haskin’s office).

Carmine enters Coach Haskins office.

Carmine: Hey Bill.

Coach Haskins: Carmine! What brings you here?

Carmine: Eh, Frankie forgot one of his books at home. Figured that since I’m here, I might as well stop by. You busy?

Coach Haskins: You kidding? Have a seat.

Carmine: (Sits) So, how are things looking for tomorrow? The guys seem excited.

Coach Haskins: They should be ready to go. We’ve certainly done our share of practicing.

Carmine: (Calculating) So, have you decided who you’re starting at quarterback?

Coach Haskins: (Sighs) I have to be honest with you Carmine. I don’t know who I’m going with. Heading into it, I thought it would be Frankie all the way. He’s got the strongest arm, no question. But your nephew has got such a good head on his shoulders. He knows how to carry himself out there.

Carmine: I see.

Coach Haskins: Don’t get me wrong. He’s no match for Frankie physically. But I can’t help but wonder if Tony’s decision-making would pay off more in the long run. I’ve got a tough call to make. At this point, it’s a coin toss.

Carmine: Well you’re a smart guy, Bill. I’m sure you’ll do what’s best. (Pulls out an envelope and places it on his desk)

Coach Haskins: What’s this?

Carmine: Take a look.

Coach Haskins: (Opens the envelope) A permit for the addition I wanted? It’s been getting shot down for over a year now. How did you…

Carmine: I have my ways.

Coach Haskins: (Stares at the permit and then looks up at Carmine.) I hope you don’t think you can buy me with this. I’d never…

Carmine: Let’s not get righteous here, Bill. You said it yourself: “It’s a coin toss.” Well let’s just say it just landed with Frankie’s side up. (Gets up to leave.)

Coach Haskins: This doesn’t feel right, Carmine.

Carmine: Well just think how right it will feel when you show your wife that piece of paper. Good to see you again, Bill. (Leaves)

Frankie is walking down the hall with his arm around a girl.

Frankie: Yeah, it’s a lot of pressure, being the quarterback. But I know how to handle it.

Juliet: (Running up to him) Frankie!

Frankie: (Caught off guard, he takes his arm off the girl) Jules! Listen, um… I’m real…

Juliet: I made the team! Can you believe it? I mean, of course you can, but, wow! Thank you so much.

Frankie: (Shocked and relieved) Hey, anything for my little cous, right?

Juliet: That’s why I tried to call you last night. I wanted you to be the first to know.

Frankie: Well that’s awesome news. Listen, I’d better get to home room. I’ll catch you later. (Starts to walk away)

Juliet: Yeah, sure. (She feels ignored as he’s already walked away, but then noticed Rob at his locker, getting books out.) Rob, why aren’t you changed? We’re supposed to skip first period to practice for the pep rally.

Rob: Yeah, about that… I’m not gonna wear the costume.

Juliet: What? Why not?

Rob: Because I’m not going to be the school mascot. I endure enough humiliation on a daily basis just being myself. I don’t need the added bonus of being Freddie Falcon.

Juliet: Stop being such a wuss. Nobody will even know it’s you.

Rob: You kidding me? Like Amy’s gonna keep her mouth shut.

Juliet: Ugh! Why is everyone so wrapped up with that girl? Forget about Amy for a second. You’ve got a gym full of girls depending on you.

Rob: Yeah, depending on me to make a fool of myself. Trust me, being the mascot won’t make me any more popular with the ladyfolk. Girls want jocks like Frankie and Tony, not nerds prancing around in glorified chicken suits.

Juliet: Come on. You’re a great guy. If you give them a chance, they’ll see it.

Rob: They’ve had fifteen years to see it. You really think this will make them change? Besides, I don’t need their approval.

Juliet: (Shakes her head.) Rob, you can keep fooling yourself into thinking that being the outcast proves you’re brave. But the truth is, you’re just scared to put yourself out there. So go ahead and quit, if you want. Maybe Amy will start respecting you. But I know that, right now, I sure don’t. (Walks away, leaving Rob speechless)

Amy: (Sneaks up behind him) She seemed happy. What did you do this time?

Rob: The problem is what I’m not doing.

Amy: You sure do have a way with the ladies…

Rob: So… How was that date with Tony last night? Did you guys have fun? Any surprises?

Amy: Cute. How’d you find out about it?

Rob: I was there when the whole diabolical scheme was hatched. I would have warned you, but you didn’t seem to want my assistance.

Amy: I don’t. I can handle myself just fine without your help.

Rob: Yeah, I can tell. You’ve done such a bang-up job so far.

Amy: What’s that supposed to mean?

Rob: Nothing. Look, I gotta get to practice.

Amy: (Laughing) Wait, you’re really going to be the mascot?

Rob: (Standing up to her.) Yeah, I am. Is there a problem?

Amy: (Taken back) Well, no… It’s just…

Rob: Yeah… I’ll see ya around. (Leaves)

Maria and Gina are at the grocery store, standing at the fruit section.

Maria: (Holding a cantaloupe) How are you supposed to tell which ones are ripe? They all look exactly the same.

Gina: Beats me, dear. Save yourself the hassle and pick up a container of the pre-sliced.

Maria: I wish I could. Things are a little tight at home right now. We’re gonna need to cut our own fruit.

Gina: Doctor bills starting to pile up?

Maria: Well, insurance covers most of it. But having cancer still isn’t cheap.

Gina: You have your first round of chemo today, right?

Maria: Yeah. Angela’s set me up for this new kind of treatment. It’s supposed to be the latest thing.

Gina: (Pauses) Maria, don’t take this the wrong way, but… you did go for a second opinion didn’t you.

Maria: No… Why would I?

Gina: Well, it’s just that Angela’s a fine doctor when it comes to checking your blood pressure. But I’m not sure I’d want to put my life in her hands. She did have to repeat that year of medical school.

Maria: That’s because she got mono.

Gina: Look, all I’m saying is that I want you to get the best treatment you can, and I’m not so sure Angela’s the person that can give it. If you’re not going to get a second opinion, you should at least look on the internet and do some research. Make sure there’s not something better out there.

Maria: (Confused and worried) I guess you’re right…

Gina: Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you. Angela probably knows what she’s doing. (Picks up a container) Here, get the pre-sliced. My treat.

Maria: (Deep in thought) Thanks… (The two push their carts down the aisle. Maria has a troubled look on her face.)

Juliet is stretching on the gym floor when Jenny sits down next to her.

Jenny: So, you ready for your first official practice?

Juliet: I guess so. I just hope I don’t do anything too embarrassing during the pep rally.

Jenny: Don’t worry about it. I could tell from your try-out that you’re a natural.

Juliet: Really?

Jenny: Yeah. A couple of the girls were pulling hard for Jamey Brewster, since she’s part of their clique. But I stood up for you. I said you were the best, and Coach Palmer agreed.

Juliet: Look Jenny, I appreciate how nice you’re being. But I know you really voted for me because of Frankie.

Jenny: Frankie? What does he have to do with this?

Juliet: He put you up to it, didn’t he? That’s why you voted for me.

Jenny: Juliet, I haven’t talked to Frankie in months. I voted for you because you were the best.

Juliet: Wow. Thanks. I didn’t mean to doubt you, it’s just that Frankie…

Coach Palmer: Alright ladies, let’s get going. We’ve got a lot of work to do. Now where’s our Freddie Falcon?

Juliet: Oh. I don’t think…

Rob: (Bursting through the gym doors with his costume half-on) I’m right here! (Juliet’s face lights up.) Sorry I’m late. I had to make a quick stop at the little bird’s room.

Juliet: (Laughs, but then stops when she realizes that no one else is.)

Coach Palmer: Alright. Take a seat, and we’ll get started.

Rob: (Sits in the middle of a group of girls) So, who’s ready to shake their tail-feather?

Tony is at his locker getting his books when he’s approached by Jenny.

Jenny: Hey baby!

Tony: (Hesitant) Oh… hey. What’s up?

Jenny: I just got done with practice. Our floor routine for the pep rally is going to be off the hook! I can’t wait for you to see it!

Tony: (Subdued, trying to sound excited) Yeah, I can’t wait.

Jenny: Are you ok?

Tony: Yeah, I’m –

Jenny: If you’re still thinking about last night, just forget it. It’s over. I mean, we worked everything out, right?

Tony: (Uncomfortable) Yeah, yeah. Of course. I just, uh, have a lot on my mind with the game coming up and all. I got distracted.

Jenny: Don’t worry about it, baby. You’re going to do great. I know it.

Tony: Thanks. Well, I should get to class.

Jenny: Ok. I’ll see you at the pep rally. I can’t wait for that rose!

Tony: Huh?

Jenny: The rose that every player gives to a girl during the rally. I am getting yours, right?

Tony: Oh, of course. Who else would I give it to? (They both pause, knowing the answer to that question) I’d better get going. Good luck with the floor routine. (He leaves as Jenny leans up against the lockers with a hurt look on her face.)

Maria is seated at the computer scrolling through a page on the internet.

Maria: Squamous cell… Adenocarcinoma… Small cell. (She click on a link and begins to read. As she views the page, she grows increasingly tense. Eventually she comes to a sentence that causes her to cover her hand with her mouth in disbelief. She continues to look at the screen, absorbing what she’s just read. She places her head in her hands and takes a deep breath. She looks at the screen one last time, before glancing at a pad on the desk, with the words “Chemo 2:30” written on it.

The pep rally. The cheerleaders are seated on the first row of the bleachers, waiting to be announced. Juliet is next to Rob, who is wearing his costume.

Juliet: I’m so nervous. My hands are sweating.

Rob: I wish it was just my hands. It’s like a sauna in this thing. Plus, I’m pretty sure the last guy who wore this thing needed to use prescription deodorant.

Juliet: Oh, gross.

Rob: Yeah, it’s lovely in here.

Coach Palmer: (Over the PA system) Ladies, and Gentlemen, please give a big round of applause as we introduce this year’s JV Cheerleading squad!

(The squad goes out onto the floor, jumping and shaking their pom-poms. They get in formation and pause, before the music starts and they begin their floor routine.)

The JV football team is lined up in the hallway outside the gym. Tony, Frankie, and Starks are near the doors to the gym, watching the cheerleaders.

Starks: Mm, mm. Now that’s what I call some fine looking pep.

Tony: Careful, man. My sister’s out there.

Frankie: So Tony, have you decided which of your two ladies is getting your rose?

Tony: You kidding me? Jenny’s had dibs on this thing for the past six months.

Starks: Well, what about you, Francis? Who are you giving yours to?

Frankie: I haven’t decided yet. We’ll see who catches my eye.

Tony: Who’s getting your rose, Starks?

Starks: You mean roses. (Holds out a bouquet.) I’m not about to disappoint any of my girls.

Coach Haskins: Let’s line up, gentlemen. It’s almost time go out. I want offense up front, then defense, then special teams. Frankie, you’re our starter tomorrow, so you’ll be announced first.

Frankie: Sure thing, Coach.

The cheerleading squad finishes up there routine and the crowd cheers. Coach Haskins takes the mike and begins speaking to the crowd.

Coach Haskins: Thank you ladies, that was great. As you know, tomorrow, we kick off the season against our rivals, Holy Trinity. I hope you’ll all be there to support our team. It’s going to be a hard fought game, and having a crowd of great fans like yourselves makes

a big difference. But in the meantime, you can encourage them by giving a big round of applause as I announce their names. I’ll begin with tomorrow’s starting quarterback, sophomore, Frankie Romano!

(Frankie emerges from the gym doors, and raises his hand to acknowledge the crowd which stands up and cheers loudly.)

Tony and Starks peer around the corner of the gym door, watching Frankie take the floor.

Starks: (Puts his hand on Tony’s shoulder, who is lined up in front of him.) Sorry, man. I thought you had it.

Tony: It’s not over. There’s still one more practice.

Starks: I’ll give you credit. You never give up. Oh, you gotta be kidding me!

(Frankie has climbed into the bleachers near Amy and is presenting her with his rose.)

Starks: First he takes your starting spot. Now he’s going after your girl?

Tony: (Shaking his head in disgust) Unreal.

Frankie is standing next to Amy on the bleachers, enjoying the applause. Amy, slightly embarrassed, but happy, thanks him with a kiss on the cheek. Juliet, standing in the first row, rolls her eyes.

Coach Haskins: Frankie Romano everyone!

(The crowds cheers once again as Frankie acknowledges them and goes to take his place on the floor)

Coach Haskins: The next person I’d like to introduce is very close to Frankie. He’s not only his back-up, he’s his cousin. Let’s hear it for Tony Romano!

(Tony heads out through the gym doors to moderate applause, he modestly acknowledges the crowd and heads towards Jenny.)

Tony: I believe this is for you. (Hands Jenny the rose.)

Jenny: Thank you so much! (Throws her arms around him and kisses him on the lips, evoking a loud cheer from the crowd.)

Tony: (Walks away bashfully, then glances apologetically up at Amy who has a disappointed look on her face.)

Coach Haskins: Next up is our top wide receiver, John Starks!

Starks: (Struts through the gym doors and towards the bleachers, embracing the crowd. He then begins to hand out roses to various girls) Don’t worry ladies, there’s plenty to go around!

Beth is looking through the window of the Romano’s front door. She rings the bell a few times.

Beth: Maria! Are you there? Maria? (Takes her cell-phone out of her purse and dials.) Hello, Mario? Hi, it’s Beth. Listen, I was supposed to pick up Maria for her treatment right? No, she’s not answering. I’ve been ringing the bell for five minutes. Do you think Gina may have taken her? Alright. Let me know if you hear anything. I’ll be across the street.

The pep rally. Coach Haskins continues to introduce his players to the crowd. The players are lined up horizontally behind him, with Frankie on the outside edge where the incoming players pass by him.

Coach Haskins: And last but not least, is special teams. I’ll begin with our kicker, Larry Banks. Larry was a big part of this team’s success last year converting 22 of 23 field goals…

(Frankie sticks out his foot as Larry passes, sending him sprawling. The crowd erupts with laughter.)

Frankie: Not so light on your feet, are you, twinkle toes?

Larry: (He stares angrily at Frankie as he picks himself off the ground.) You wanna see me get my jersey dirty?

Frankie: (Laughing at him) I think you’d better stick to hitting the uprights. (Larry gives him a disgusted look, and begins to turn away.) Yeah, I thought so…

(Larry spins around quickly, catching Frankie off guard and tackles him to the ground. The two proceed to wrestle on the floor as the crowd erupts. Tony, Starks, and the other players intervene, pulling the two apart. Frankie continues to go after Larry, but Tony manages to pin him to the floor.)

Tony: Come on, man! This isn’t worth it!

Rob: (Standing next to Juliet in the bleachers) Well, at least the school won’t be talking about how lam I am.

Maria is in the Romano’s family room staring at the Bible on the bookshelf.

Maria: (She takes the Bible down) I guess I should probably start reading this… (She goes to the sofa and starts flipping through the pages) Where do I even begin? (As she continues to flip pages, she is interrupted by the doorbell.)

Maria heads towards the door and opens it.

Maria: (Taken back) Oh. Angela. I guess I should have called. Please, come in.

Angela: Is everything ok, Maria? I heard you missed your appointment.

Maria: I don’t know how to say this…

Angela: It’s alright. Take your time.

Maria: Look, it’s not that I don’t appreciate all you’ve done, all you’re doing. But I guess I just don’t the point of it.

Angela: What do you mean?

Maria: Well, in your office you told me that with the chemo and radiation I had a decent chance of surviving.

Angela: You do.

Maria: Well I’d like to know what you consider decent, because I looked it up online and, best case, I’ve got a five percent chance of making it to Tony’s graduation. And if the cancer’s spread like you said it has… I’ll be lucky if I’m here at Christmas.

Angela: I know the statistics, Maria. But if you want someone who goes by the numbers, you’ve got the wrong doctor.

Maria: I want a doctor who’s going to tell me the truth.

Angela: You want the truth Maria. The truth is that you can throw all those numbers out the window. Because it doesn’t matter if your odds are one in ten, or one in a million; not if you’re that one. And the only we find that out is by doing everything we possibly can to cure you.

Maria: So basically we’re just hoping for a miracle?

Angela: It’s better than expecting the worst. (Heading towards the door, letting herself out) I’ve rescheduled your appointment with Dr. Brunson for 5:30 tomorrow. I hope you’ll decide to go. (She leaves and Maria, deep in thought, closes the door behind her.)

Tony and Starks are getting changed in the locker room.

Starks: ...And let’s not forget Kendra. She seemed pretty excited when I handed her that rose. Homecoming is becoming quite the conundrum.

Tony: Nice to see that “word of the day” calendar is finally starting to pay off.

Starks: Look, all I’m saying is that it’s not easy being this desirable.

Tony: Yeah, Starks. You’ve got it real rough.

Starks: Don’t hate on me. I think if anyone can sympathize with the difficulties of courting multiple women, it’s you.

Coach Haskins: (Emerging from his office) Tony, can I have a word with you in my office?

Tony: Yeah. Of course.

Tony enters Coach Haskin’s office.

Coach Haskins: Have a seat. After the incident at the pep-rally, I have no choice but to suspend your cousin for tomorrow’s game. And that means the starting job falls to you. Do you think you can handle it?

Tony: I won’t let you down, coach.

Coach Haskins: I know you won’t. Now go get suited up. We have a lot to go over. (Tony gets up and heads for the door.) And Tony… (He turns to face his coach) Congratulations. You’ve earned this.

Tony is walking down the hallway towards practice. He turns a corner, and finds himself face to face with Frankie.

Frankie: You must be pretty happy, huh?

Tony: This isn’t the way I wanted to get the job, Frankie.

Frankie: Yeah, but you got it.

Tony: Look, Frankie. I’m sorry…

Frankie: Don’t apologize. You’ve been trying to take this away from me for months.

Tony: You took it away from yourself. I didn’t make you start that fight with Larry.

Frankie: Yeah? Well maybe it’s time you lose something that’s important to you.

Tony: How’s that?

Frankie: Good luck tomorrow. (Walks away, purposely bumping into Tony.)

Rob and Juliet are walking home from school.

Juliet: So, that wasn’t so bad today, was it?

Rob: I think I could get used to it. I mean, assuming my mom can Febreze the dead opossum smell out my costume.

Juliet: (Jokingly waving the smell from her nose) Yeah, I think you might’ve carried some of that with you!

Rob: (Smells himself) I don’t know, all I’m getting is my natural scent of manliness.

Juliet: Yeah, ok! …So tell me something. What made you change your mind and show up today?

Rob: You mean other than the massive guilt trip you laid on me?

Juliet: Yeah, that was pretty good, wasn’t it?

Rob: I don’t know… I guess it’s because you’re the first person who actually expected something from me. I didn’t want to let you down.

Juliet: (Flattered) Well, you didn’t. (They’ve reached their houses) Listen, do you wanna come over and hang out for a little while? I think I saw a copy of that new J. Lo movie lying around. And I can make some pop-corn.

Rob: Orville Redenbacher and Jennifer Lopez? Now that’s a combination I can’t resist.

Amy is looking out her bedroom window at Rob and Juliet talking and laughing, when Frankie sneaks up behind her.

Frankie: Whatcha looking at?

Amy: (Startled) Frankie, you scared me. How come you aren’t at practice?

Frankie: Coach isn’t a big fan of fighting.

Amy: Did he kick you off the team?

Frankie: Nah. Just suspended me for a game.

Amy: Well that’s not too bad, right?

Frankie: I lost my starting job to Tony.

Amy: Wow. I’m sorry.

Frankie: Look, I don’t want to talk about it anymore. I came over here to get my mind off that junk.

Amy: Well what do you want to do?

Frankie: I was thinking you could help me finish these off. (He holds up a bottle of alcohol and a pack of cigarettes.)

Amy: Frankie! If my dad sees those… (Goes to grab them)

Frankie: (Playfully puts them out of her reach) That’s why we’re getting out of here and heading to my place. The car’s around the block.

Amy: Fine! But just put those in your backpack or I’m gonna be grounded for life.

Frankie: (Puts his arm around her) You know, I’m feeling better already!

Maria is in the kitchen cooking dinner when Mario enters.

Maria: You’re home early.

Mario: That’s because I wanted to check on you. I got a call from Beth saying you weren’t home when she came to pick you up for your treatment.

Maria: I was home. I… just didn’t feel like going.

Mario: What?

Maria: I’m not going for chemotherapy, Mario.

Mario: What do you mean you’re not going?

Maria: I did some research on the internet. Turns out that I have a better chance of winning the lottery than being around this time next year. So I really don’t see the point of going through chemo.

Mario: But it would at least give you more time, right?

Maria: More time for what? Laying in bed, being bent over a toilet?

Mario: I know, but… I mean don’t you want to at least try? Miracles happen, right?

Maria: Not to people like us, Mario. We don’t even deserve to ask for one.

Mario: I just can’t stand the thought of giving up so easily. We can fight this!

Maria: Why? The verdict’s already been rendered. There’s no reason. There’s just no reason.

Mario: Is there anything I can do for you?

Maria: Just take care of the kids when they get home. I need to go lay down for a while. (She turns to leave)

Mario: (Takes her hand, to draw her close) Wait.

Maria: (Stops) Not now, Mario. (Pulls away and head upstairs, leaving a teary-eyed Mario standing in the middle of the room, overwhelmed.)

Michael is in his living room reading a book when Amy enters through the front door and begins to quickly climb the stairs.

Michael: Hey, slow down a minute. I haven’t seen you all day!

Amy: (Quickly pausing) Listen, I got a ton of homework… (Continues going up the stairs)

Michael: It can wait five minutes. Come talk to your old man.

Amy: I have an English test. (They stare each other down. Amy, realizing that Michael is serious, backs down.) Fine, what do you want to talk about? (She heads down the stairs and stands across from him, maintaining her distance.)

Michael: Why don’t you start by telling me about your day?

Amy: It was school. Classes, lunch, more classes…

Michael: Well what did you do over at Frankie’s?

Amy: We watched TV.

Michael: What did you watch?

Amy: (Annoyed) MTV! Seriously, can we quit it with Spanish Inquisition so I can study?

Michael: I’m sorry. I just wanted to see how you were doing.

Amy: (Softening) I know. I just really need to get going on my homework. (Starts to leave.) I’ll talk to you in the morning.

Michael: Can you spare two seconds for a goodnight kiss?

Amy: (Taken off guard) Uh, well, I don’t see why not. (Leans over and kisses him on the cheek)

Michael: Whew, your breath!

Amy: (Stops thinking she’s caught) Huh?

Michael: It’s minty! What kind of gum is that?

Amy: (Relived, she begins to head upstairs) I don’t know… Trident? Frankie gave it to me.

Michael: Well it smells wonderful. It really blends quite well with those Marlboros.

Amy: (Stops dead in her tracks, composes herself, and then faces her father.) Look, I didn’t…

Michael: Or maybe it was vodka? Cause I might have caught a hint of that as well!

Amy: Dad! We just watched TV!

Michael: Don’t dig your hole any deeper by lying. You’re not very good at it.

Amy: Fine. Congratulations, Matlock. You solved the case. (Starts to run up the stairs)

Michael: (Firmly) Get back down here. (Amy stops, but keeps her back to him.) What happened to the fresh start we talked about?

Amy: It’s not that simple Dad.

Michael: Then let make it a little easier for you. You aren’t hanging with Frankie any more.

Amy: (Whirls around to face him) Dad! He’s my friend!

Michael: No he’s not. Not when he gets you involved in those things. Look, you’ve got Rob right across the street…

Amy: Don’t start with that, Dad. It’s not happening. Can I please get started on my homework?

Michael: You do it, and then you go to bed. (She goes up the stairs.) We’ll continue this conversation in the morning. (Pauses for a moment, and then looks up to pray.) Give me strength!

Mario is sitting at the kitchen table reading the paper and eating breakfast. A groggy Tony enters and begins fixing himself a bowl of cereal.

Mario: Don’t bother with that. There’s bacon and eggs over here for you.

Tony: Is Grandma here?

Mario: This may surprise you, but there are other people in this family who know their way around a kitchen.

Tony: (Joking) Hmm, I thought Mom slept in.

Mario: I do own my own restaurant you know.

Tony: (Taking a bite) And now I know why you hired Antonio.

Mario: I wake up early to cook you a pre-game breakfast and suddenly you become a comedian.

Tony: Wanna see my stand-up routine?

Mario: Stick to football. So you nervous?

Tony: Nah, I got ice in my veins.

Mario: That worried, huh?

Tony: Terrified.

Mario: Let me give you some advice…

Tony: This isn’t where you tell me to picture the other team in their underwear is it?

Mario: Well, that’s always one option. But if you’d like to try something a little less disturbing, you can always go with what Grandpa told me.

Tony: I’m listening.

Mario: When you step foot on that field, there’s going to be a million things to distract you: what play to run, what formation the defense is in, the crowd, the cheerleaders. And you can’t let them take your focus off what’s most important.

Tony: What’s that?

Mario: Three things: time, truth, and heart.

Tony: Ok?

Mario: Let me explain. There’s going to be one moment during the game where you’re going to have to make the play that’ll decide the game. All that other stuff, it just creates the setting. And as long as you just do what you’re supposed to, those will all take care of itself. What you need to be focused on is finding that one deciding moment and making it happen. It may be in the first five minutes. It may be the last play of the game. But when that time comes, you need to stay true to yourself and find the courage in here (pointing to his heart) to do what needs to be done. It’s that simple.

Tony: For real?

Mario: You are talking to the man who hit the game winning shot in the Regional Championships.

Tony: (Getting up from the table) Really? You’ve never told me that before…

Mario: You just keep getting funnier!

Tony: Thanks for breakfast, Dad.

Coach Haskins is sitting at his desk, when he hears a knock on his office door.

Coach Haskins: Come in. (Carmine enters the room) Carmine. To what do I owe this pleasure?

Carmine: Well Bill, I felt I should give you a heads up.

Coach Haskins: What about?

Carmine: Well, it just so happens that I got a phone call from my buddy on the zoning board, and he told me that they’re reviewing your permit status. Something about property lines… I’m sure it’s nothing, but I’d hold off on signing any work contracts. (Starts heading out.)

Coach Haskins: So this is how you’re going to play it, Carmine?

Carmine: (Stops.) You were the one who benched Frankie, Bill.

Coach Haskins: I had no choice. Your son started Wrestlemania 24 in front of the entire student body. Look Carmine, I upheld my end. I gave him the starting spot. It’s not my fault he blew his chance.

Carmine: From what I’ve heard, it was the kicker who tackled Frankie.

Coach Haskins: And from what I’ve head, he had it coming. The way he carries himself, probably half my boys are itching to a shot at Frankie. How can I put him in a position where he’s their leader?

Carmine: Hey, it’s your call, Bill. (Leaving.) It’s not my wife who’s stuck living in a one-story dive.

Michael is in his church painting a wall, when Mario enters the room.

Mario: And here I thought pastors only worked one day a week!

Michael: Mario! What a nice surprise! I would have expected you to be busy serving New York’s finest Italian food.

Mario: No, I took off from work. I think Maria needs me around today.

Michael: Is that what you came here to talk about?

Mario: Yeah, actually it is.

Michael: I’m listening.

Mario: Well, Maria’s done some research about her cancer and apparently it’s worse than we thought. Like “she might not be around at Thanksgiving” worse.

Michael: Oh, Mario. I’m so sorry.

Mario: That’s not all. She’s refusing her chemotherapy.

Michael: Why is that?

Mario: She says that there’s no reason to prolong her life.

Michael: What about Juliet and Tony?

Mario: I think she feels they’d be better off without her. I could have the two of them assure her otherwise, but I don’t want to put that kind of burden on them.

Michael: I understand.

Mario: And she’s made it more than clear that my opinion isn’t wanted.

Michael: You know, I think you may be approaching this from the wrong angle, Mario.

Mario: What do you mean?

Michael: Well, you keep providing her with external reasons: the children, your marriage. Perhaps Maria needs some internal motivation.

Mario: How am I supposed to give her that?

Michael: You can’t. At least not directly. But there had to be some reason why Maria chose not to end her life the other night. There has to be something that’s allowing her to hold on. It could be as simple as the fear of dying, or so complex that she’s not even aware of it. But it’s there. You need to help her find that reason.

Mario: I don’t even know where to begin.

Michael: You know Maria better than anyone, Mario. Spend some time thinking it over. Pray about it even. You’ll figure it out.

Mario: Let’s hope so.

Tony is sitting on the floor of an empty hallway in St. Thomas Academy. Deep in thought, he is interrupted by the noise of the cheerleading squad moving through an adjacent hallway. Jenny, trailing the group, notices Tony and approaches him.

Jenny: Shouldn’t you be outside warming up?

Tony: Yeah. I, uh - I just needed a minute to clear my head.

Jenny: Are you nervous?

Tony: Nah, nah. (Getting up) I just want to think through the plays one more time.

Jenny: You’re gonna do great, Tony. I know it.

Tony: Thanks.

Jenny: You know all the girls are jealous of me now, after getting the rose from the starting quarterback. But I just tell them that I loved you before you became a star.

Tony: (Amused) I don’t think JV football qualifies me for celebrity status.

Jenny: Maybe not. But it still means a lot that you gave it to me. You always keep your promises, Tony.

Tony: You deserved it.

Jenny: So are you going to promise me a win?

Tony: (Smiling) I don’t know about that…

Jenny: We’ll I’d better get out there. The squad’s waiting. I’m real proud of you, Tony. (She exits. Tony leans his head against his locker and sighs. Amy appears from around a corner.)

Amy: That was sweet. I guess she’s not the bimbo cheerleader I was expecting.

Tony: No, she’s not.

Amy: Sorry for eavesdropping. I was coming by to wish you good luck. I guess she beat me to it.

Tony: Don’t worry. I can use all the luck I can get.

Amy: Are you nervous?

Tony: You know you’re like the seventh person who’s asked me that? Do I look that nervous?

Amy: No. You look like strong, confident….

Tony: I’m about to hurl.

Amy: Well is there anything I can do to help? (Playfully seductive) Something to take your mind off the game for a second?

Tony: (Brightening up) Actually, yeah. (He turns to his locker and quickly enters the combination into his lock. Tony opens the locker and removes a sunflower which he presents to Amy.) You can have this!

Amy: Oh my goodness! What’s this for?

Tony: I felt bad that I couldn’t give you a rose yesterday, so I wanted to make it up to you.

Amy: It’s beautiful. How did you know that I love sunflowers?

Tony: Starks ran a background check on you from his dad’s computer. (Amy gives him a flirtatious look) I’m kidding. Dumb luck.

Amy: Yeah, there used to be a whole field of sunflowers across the street from my house in Iowa. They’re my favorite. They make me feel at home.

Tony: Well I’ll keep that in mind.

Amy: Oh yeah?

Tony: Look, I’d better warm-up. Coach is probably having a fit.

Amy: Well thank you so much.

Tony: It’s nothing.

Amy: No, it is. (She gives him a kiss on the cheek) Now go out there and show everybody how amazing I already know you are.

Tony: (Staring into Amy’s eyes) Will do. (He turns and heads down the hallway. As he straps his helmet on, Amy stares while sniffing the sunflower and smiles.)

Mario slowly opens the door to his bedroom and enters the room. Maria is lying on her bed with her back towards him.

Mario: You awake?

Maria: If you’ve come to remind me that I have a chemotherapy appointment in an hour, I’m already well aware.

Mario: No, actually I’m not. I thought you weren’t going.

Maria: I’m not.

Mario: Right. Well I just wanted to see if you felt like going to Tony’s game.

Maria: I don’t think I can. I’m just so exhausted.

Mario: He’s starting at quarterback. This is what he’s been working for all summer.

Maria: (Lifting her head off the bed and turning toward Mario) I said I’m too tired, Mario. If I could be there, I would. Your guilt trip isn’t necessary.

Mario: I’m sorry for pushing you. Tony will understand. (He moves closer) Before I go… I was cleaning out the file cabinet this afternoon and I stumbled across something that might interest you. I’ll leave it right here. (He places a small book on her bed.) I hope you feel better. (Mario leaves the room. After a pause to make certain he is gone, Maria lifts herself up from the bed and grabs the book from the edge of the bed. She opens to the first page and is pleasantly surprised by what she reads.)

Maria: The diary of Maria Zambrano, Age 13.

Tony is running across the field toward the sidelines. The stands are already beginning to fill with fans, who are being entertained by the cheerleading squad. When Tony reaches the team’s bench, he is approached by Starks.

Starks: ‘Ton! I’ve been looking all over for you, bro!

Tony: Sorry. I got held up.

Starks: The pre-game dump. Good move.

Tony: No man, it was, uh, Jenny.

Starks: Ah, pre-game action. Even bette

r move.

Tony: And Amy.

Starks: Dang! It is good to be the starting quarterback.

Tony: It wasn’t like that.

Starks: Riiiiiiight. So you ready to warm up or what?

Tony: Yeah, let’s go. I could use some loosening up.

Starks: Don’t be so nervous, bro. I’m going to make this real easy for you. All you gotta do is throw it up there. John Starks will come down with it.

Tony: I’ll keep that in mind.

Maria is sitting on her bed, flipping through her old diary.