DAY EIGHTEEN

Monday, 12:32 - Kitchen

Day eighteen in the Big Brother house and a dreary weekend has kept the housemates coped up indoors for the majority of their time. This coupled with the fact that today is eviction day has led to tensions in the house and most of the housemates are keeping to themselves in an effort to avoid more arguments.

[Nikki is in the kitchen making toast. Jack walks in and stops when he sees her. She smiles tentatively at him, he reciprocates but still doesn’t move]

Nikki: Jack, don’t you think we should get this sorted?

Jack: I’m still thinking Nikki. Don’t rush me.

Nikki: I’m not trying to rush you, I just…

Jack: [Interrupting] I’ll talk to you later.

[Nikki looks despondent as Jack turns and walks off. She removes the toast from the toaster and starts attacking it with a buttery knife. Dillon walks over to her]

Dillon: [Lightheartedly] What did the toast do to deserve that sort of treatment?

Nikki: [Looking down to see the mess she’s made] Nothing.

Dillon: If you want to talk about it…?

Nikki: [Fed up] Talk about what?

Dillon: The pregnancy, Jack, all of it. I’m happy to listen.

Nikki: I don’t want to talk about it. I just want Jack to decide what he wants.

Dillon: You can’t put your life on hold waiting for Jack to decide to be mature.

Nikki: You don’t know anything about it Dillon! I just wish everyone would leave me alone.

[Nikki stalks off back to the girls bedroom. Dillon sighs and rubs his forehead, Charlie comes up beside him]

Charlie: You alright?

Dillon: Not really. Every time I try to help I get my head bitten off and just seem to make things worse. I think I’m losing my touch!

Charlie: It’s a difficult environment, you can’t expect people to open up around here the same as they would on the phone to an anonymous Samaritan.

Dillon: This has got nothing to do with my work as a Samaritan. I want to help Nikki and Lara because they’re friends of mine. Lara in particular seems to think that I’m just using her as a training exercise, and nothing could be further from the truth.

Charlie: She’ll open up when she’s ready. The trick is to be there waiting. Don’t force her Dillon, you’ll do more harm than good.

Dillon: This is the Charlie Fairhead voice of experience is it?

Charlie: Yes it is. Look, when someone phones you they do it as a last resort, because they need to talk to someone objective. Right?

Dillon: I suppose…

Charlie: And you do what you can for them. I’ve seen you at work, I know that you care about your patients, but again, they only come to us when everything’s already blown up. With friends and colleagues you’re there right from the beginning of their problems and you care enough to want to help, but they’re still not at the stage where they’re ready to be helped. By you or by anyone. It’s difficult, I know, but sometimes you have to wait for someone to make a mess before you can clear it up.

Dillon: That’s all very poetic Charlie, but you can’t expect me to stand back and not try to help.

Charlie: I’m not saying don’t try to help, just chose your moments. Cornering someone on telly and trying to get them to open up isn’t going to work.

Dillon: So what should I do.

Charlie: Be friendly, sympathetic, on hand for when you are needed. Look, I spoke to Lara the other day. She mentioned that she’d been a bit short with you, and seemed worried that she’s alienated one of her closer friends. If you really want to be useful, you’ll go and tell her that she hasn’t.

Dillon: [Looking a little worried about his information about Lara] OK. Next time she’s alone I’ll go and have a word. Charlie, do you think I really do push too hard on people?

Charlie: Happens to the best of us.

Monday, 13:57 - Diary Room

It’s nearly two ‘o’ clock on day eighteen and Spencer ahs come to the diary room.

[Spencer is sitting bolt upright in the chair, as though trying to stand to attention]

BB: WHAT CAN BIG BROTHER DO FOR YOU SPENCER?

Spencer: Well, to be honest sir, I’m a little worried about the chickens.

BB: OK, WHAT IS IT ABOUT THEM THAT CONCERNS YOU?

Spencer: They just seem to be a little peaky. The notes on how to look after them say that they should be in good sprits but they aren’t. Could be the weather, I suppose. I’ve asked the doctors to take a look but they’re both adamant that they doctors and not vets so can’t help…

BB: BIG BROTHER WILL SEE WHAT HE CAN DO. IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WISH TO DISCUSS WHILE YOU’RE HERE?

[Spencer looks a little troubled, but nods slightly]

Spencer: Well, I don’t want to get a reputation for coming in here to talk about my colleagues behind their backs, but… there have been a few things worrying me.

BB: GO ON?

Spencer: The, er, tension between Dr Kaminski and Josh Griffiths has made things rather difficult, especially between the men here. I’m not sure why, but the ladies seem to have formed quite a tight little group of their own but the men seem to be finding things much harder. Young Jack is of course fretting over Nikki, and Dillon seems uncomfortable around Tony. Mr Fairhead is trying to keep the peace and doing a good job, but I know from my time in the navy that if we don’t start pulling together then the arguments will only get worse.

BB: BIG BROTHER ENCOURAGES TEAMWORK TO RUN THE HOUSE, AND FOR CERTAIN CHALLENGES OTHER THAN THAT IT IS UP TO THE HOUSEMATES TO LEARN TO LIVE WITH EACH OTHER. BIG BROTHER WILL NOT GET INVOLVED IN HOUSEHOLD DISPUTES.

Spencer: Oh, right. I just thought…. I don’t like to be caught in the middle of other peoples arguments…

BB: YOU ARE FREE TO TRY TO TAKE ON THE ROLE OF PEACEMAKER OR LEADER IF YOU WISH.

Spencer: Ah, now, I don’t think I’d make a good leader.

BB: BIG BROTHER HAS NO FURTHER SUGGESTIONS AT THIS TIME.

Spencer: [Frowning] Alright. Thank you for listening about the chickens anyway.

Monday, 15:00 - Living Room

It’s eviction time for week two, and the housemates have gathered in the living room to hear their fate.

[Everyone is sitting around on the sofa’s they all look slightly tense]

BB: ARE ALL THE HOUSEMATES GATHERED FOR THE RESULTS OF THE SECOND EVICTIONS?

All together: Yes!

[Duffy, who is sitting next to Charlie, takes hold of his hand. Nikki glances over at Jack, who is trying not to look at her. Josh has his fingers crossed]

BB: THE RESULTS FOR THE FIRST TWO EVICTIONS ARE, IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER… JOSH AND SIMON.

[Josh grins, he looks very happy with the result. Simon is stunned and perhaps hurt by the outcome. His mouth is open with shock, leaving him looking very odd with his black eye as well]

BB: JOSH AND SIMON, YOU HAVE ONE HOUR TO PACK YOUR BELONGINGS AND LEAVE THE HOUSE.

Josh: [Under his breath] Thank goodness for that! [Louder] I’m off to pack. See you!

Anna: Well, he seems happy.

Lara: [Smiling broadly to herself as she watches Simon’s expression] He’s not the only one.

Anna: [Quietly to Lara] I don’t think Simon’s happy, man.

Lara: I’m not talking about Simon, I’m talking about me.

Anna: Ahhhh! I get you!

Charlie: [To Duffy, letting go of her hand] What was that for?

Duffy: [Looking a little embarrassed] I don’t know. I’m not sure if I want to stay or not. I mean, I want to get back to the kids, but there are aspects of this I quite enjoy.

Charlie: Like what?

Duffy: Spending time out of work with you. It’s nice, that’s all.

Charlie: You’re not bored of my company yet?

Duffy. No. [Suddenly looking worried] Are you bored of mine?

Charlie: [Laughing] No.

[Meanwhile Lara has got up, and is standing behind Simon’s seat on the sofa. She looks smug, he is still clearly shocked]

Lara: [Sarcastically] Such a shame you’ll be going. I guess the world just isn’t ready for Simon Kaminski… Oh, I do hope that this hasn’t spoilt your chances for the registrars post. [Whispering] Not exactly been seen in your best light, have you?

Simon: [Rising from his stupor] Or maybe seeing as I’ll the doctor back at work I’ll get the job after all.

Lara: I wouldn’t bank on it. Everybody’s seen what you’re really like now, and…I think you should come with me…

[Lara backs around the side of the sofa, making a ‘come here’ motion with her forefinger. Simon looks puzzled, but there is something almost seductive about Lara’s movements and expression, and he grins to himself]

Simon: Now Stoneface, I always knew you wouldn’t be able to resist my charms!

Lara: I’m not the only one who has trouble resisting things though, am I?

[Simon clearly doesn’t understand what she’s talking about, but gets up and follows her out of the door and into the garden. She leads him to the chicken coop and goes behind it. She gestures for Simon to wait while she retrieves several empty wine and cider bottles]

Simon: [No longer smiling, and looking a little guilty] What’s this about Lara?

Lara: You mean you don’t recognise these?

Simon: They’re bottles. Don’t they teach you basic shape recognition Down Under?

Lara: They’re not just any bottles are they? I’ve seen you standing by these chickens several times now. You take the drink from the house and stash the empties here where no one will find them. Except I did when Spencer asked me to examine the chickens.

Simon: Excuse me M’lud, but where exactly is the proof? They could be Spencer’s he’s around here more than me.

Lara: I know Spencer. He doesn’t drink. Besides it’ll all be caught on camera you idiot.

Simon: What’s the big deal anyway. So I drank a little… So what? I’m a grown up.

Lara: A little? Simon, we’ve been here two weeks and you’ve got through this much on your own! And the way you went off at Josh wasn’t exactly the action of a sober and well balanced person, was it? You’ve got a problem Simon. Use this as an opportunity to get some help.

[Lara turns to leave Simon alone and walks off]

Simon: [Calling after her, with the air of someone who knows they’ve been found out] I’ve got a problem,?! At least I’m not some stuck up Aussie b***h, who’s still hung up on a dead guy.

Lara: [Over her shoulder] Grow up Simon.

Monday, 13:17 - Boys Room

[Josh is packing and still looks pleased. He looks up when he hears a knock at the door]

Josh: Come in!

[Nikki enters]

Nikki: Are you looking forward to going then? You’re almost packed already!

Josh: [Sitting on his bed] I have to see Colette, explain everything that’s happened, and make sure we’re still, you know…ok. I can’t believe how stupidly I’ve acted.

Nikki: I’m sure she’ll understand. [She sits on the next bed, kicking her legs over the side so her heels bang on the wood work.] You two have a good relationship.

Josh: I always thought so. If you were Colette, would you forgive me?

Nikki: If I was Colette…[Thinks about it for a few seconds] Yeah, I would. I mean, you got a bit jealous, but it’s only ‘cause you love her and everything. And you were willing to fight for her, that’s pretty cool.

Josh: I didn’t fight! Hurting Simon was an accident.

Nikki: But if it came to it, would you have fought for her.

Josh: If it came to it, I’d do anything for her.

Nikki: I wish Jack thought like that.

Josh: The lad loves you.

Nikki: He doesn’t want this baby, I can tell. He would have said something by now if he did. He’s probably just trying to find a way to dump me gently so he doesn’t look like the bad guy in front of everyone.

Josh: If he’d dump you because of this then you deserve better anyway.

Nikki: That’s what Duffy said.

Josh: Must be true then.

Nikki: Josh, when you leave, will you do me a favour?

Josh: What?

Nikki: Will you visit my parents and make sure they’re alright. They know all about the baby and Jack and stuff but it must be weird for them watching it all like this. And tell them I’m alright. You know, if they see me crying or fighting with Jack or whatever… inside, I’m alright and I still want the baby.

Josh: They’ll be able to hear all this.

Nikki: I know, but still, will you?

Josh: Yeah. I will.

Nikki: And say hi to Fin and Comfort.

Josh: Ok.

Nikki: And Colette of course.

Josh: Yes Nikki.

Nikki: And tell McGuire that I’ll be there to discuss maternity leave soon.

Josh: [Exasperatedly] Alright! I’ll pass on all of your messages. Just make sure you take care of yourself.

Nikki: [Getting up and walking to Josh] You to. [She kisses the top of his head] See you later!

Monday, 16:00 - Base of the stairs

[All the housemates are gathered to say their goodbyes]

BB: JOSH AND SIMON, YOU HAVE TEN SECONDS TO SAY GOODBYE AND MAKE YOUR WAY OUT OF THE BIG BROTHER HOUSE.

[Josh shakes hands with Charlie and hugs Duffy, everyone is patting him on the back and saying goodbye. Simon is somewhat sidelined and receives far more perfunctory goodbyes. Lara is ignoring him completely, but for once Simon doesn’t appear to have anything to say to her.]

BB: WOULD JOSH AND SIMON PLEASE LEAVE THE HOUSE.

Josh: Goodbye everyone, see you all soon.

Simon: Yeah bye.

[They both make their way up the stairs to the door and push it open. The rest of the housemates below strain to see and hear the outside world.]

[From outside] Colette: Josh!

[OS] Josh: I’m so glad to see you.

[OS] Colette: I heard what you said, of course we’re alright!

[OS] Simon: Oh please, someone get me a sick bucket.

[And then the door swings closed]

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

DAY NINETEEN

Tuesday, 10:22 - Garden

It’s ten twenty-two on day nineteen in the Big Brother House. Spencer has been up for several hours and is mowing the lawn. The majority of the rest of the housemates are already succumbing to the apathy of the Big Brother house and have so far failed to make it out of bed.

[Spencer is conscientiously mowing the grass when Dillon enters the garden. He is wearing blue long swimming shorts and carrying a towel. He waves at Spencer when he sees him]

Dillon: Mornin’ Spence

Spencer: Good morning to you!

Dillon: You sound way too happy for this early. How long have you been out here anyway?

[Dillon puts his towel down on the side of the pool and tentatively gets in]

Spencer: Not long. I had a lie in and only got up at about eight.

Dillon: [Floating on his back] That’s your idea of a lie in is it?

Spencer: Ah, well, too many years spent on uncomfortable cabin beds and even more uncomfortable pavements. Besides, the morning is the best part of the day.

Dillon: I suppose. It is nice and peaceful out here. It can get a bit crowded with all of us awake.

Spencer: That it can, mind you we’re dwindling now. Four gone only another nine to go!

Dillon: I wonder who’ll be next. What do you think Spence?

Spencer: No idea.

Dillon: Do you want to leave?

Spencer: To be honest I quite like it here. Free room and board, it’s a nice house, people aren’t so bad… Is the pool warm?

Dillon: Yep. Just right. You coming in?

Spencer: [Looking a bit perturbed] No, I won’t actually.

Dillon: Come on. [Swims to the side so he can look at Spencer properly] I thought you’d be the first one in, what with you being a Navy bloke and everything.

Spencer: [Trying to laugh it off] I spent years with nothing but water around me. I’m bored of it now!

[The patio door opens again and Lara steps out of the house. She has her hair pulled back from her face and is wearing a towelling robe. She looks like she’s only just woken up]

Dillon: Morning Lara!

Spencer: [Tipping his head at her] Dr Stone.

[She walks up to the pool and sits on the edge, pulling a packet of cigarettes and a lighter from her robe pocket. She lights one, takes a drag, and puts the packet back in her pocket.]

Lara: Morning guys.

Dillon: Are you alright?

Lara: [Yawning] Just tired. Couldn’t seem to get to sleep last night.

Spencer: Could be something to do with the Frisbee tournament going on until all hours last night.

Dillon: We weren’t that loud! [To Lara, concerned] Were we?

Lara: No, it wasn’t you. It was just one of those sleepless nights.

[Dillon opens his mouth to say something and the seems to think better of it. There’s a pause and Spencer decides to go back to his mowing, obviously sensing an atmosphere between Lara and Dillon]

Lara: [to Dillon] What?

Dillon: Huh?

Lara: You’re looking at me as if you’re going to say something, so what is it?

Dillon: Nothing. Look, Lara, about the other day, I hope you don’t think I’m trying to interfere with your business. I probably shouldn’t have said anything about Patrick or Simon. I feel bad about upsetting you… We are still friends aren’t we?

Lara: [Smiling] I hope so. I shouldn’t have snapped at you. We could sit here apologising to each other all day. Let’s just call it quits yeah?

Dillon: Yeah. So are you coming in for a swim?

Lara: [Finishing and stubbing out her cigarette] Definitely. It’s why I came out here, thought it might wake me up.

[Lara stands up and takes of her robe, underneath she’s wearing a bikini. Dillon’s gaze lingers on her a little too intently as she gets into the pool]

Lara: Shame this pool’s not bigger, we could do races and things.

Dillon: You think you’d have a chance against me do you? I was swimming champion at school.

Lara: Show off.

[Lara kicks off to the other side, sending a huge spray of water up and splashing Dillon in the face]

Dillon: Hey!

[He splashes her back and they get in a good natured splash fight, laughing and shrieking. Spencer watches for a second from across the grass, then abandons his mowing to leave them to it and returns to the house.]

Tuesday, 12: 32 - Kitchen.

[Charlie is in the kitchen filling a kettle, Duffy enters. She looks tired. She sits on one of the stools at the counter]

Duffy: If you’re making a coffee I’ll have one.

Charlie: [Retrieving a second mug from the cupboard] You look exhausted.

Duffy: I feel it. Hardly slept a wink last night.

Charlie: Oh?

Duffy: Lara had a nightmare. She was tossing and turning all night. I think Anna and Nikki slept through it but I’ve spent so long training myself to hear if Paul’s alright that it woke me straight up.

Charlie: Is she ok?

Duffy: I think so. From what I heard her mumble she was thinking about Patrick, but you’re not supposed to disturb people who’re having nightmares are you? Or is that sleepwalking? Anyway, I left her to it but it started me thinking about Andrew…

Charlie: So are you alright?

Duffy: [Looking a bit teary but forcing herself to smile] I’m fine. You know me, good old Duffy, won’t let the world get me down…

Charlie: Need a hug?

Duffy: [Quietly] Yeah.

[Charlie walks round to her and gives her a hug. It lasts a few seconds before they pull away from each other]

Duffy: [Slightly brighter] I am alright you know.

Charlie: I know.

Tuesday, 13: 07 - Boys Room

Jack and Tony are in the boys room, Jack is searching through his brother’s clothes hoping to find something clean to wear rather than have to wash his own clothes.

Tony: You’re a lazy sod. Can’t imagine what Nikki sees in you.

Jack: Don’t go there right now mate.

Tony: [Wincing] Sorry, I forgot…

Jack: Well, I’m glad you can.

Tony: Have you actually talked to her yet?

Jack: Yeah…

Tony: I mean since she told you about the baby?

Jack: [Bitterly] And say what?

Tony: Tell her how you feel.

Jack: [Starting to sound angry] I don’t know how I feel!

Tony: Alright mate, don’t get angry at me!

Jack: I’m not angry at you. Or her, or anyone, I’m just angry, OK. I just want to hit something.

Tony: Good idea. Wait there.

[Tony darts out of the room and returns a few seconds later with a couple of cushions off the sofa. He puts his hands inside the covers and holds them up like boxing pads]

Jack: What are you doing?

Tony: Hit me. Come on, you know you’ll feel better for it...

Jack: [Eyeing the cushions suspiciously] You’re mad you are.

Tony: What harm can it do? You were just saying the other day that you’re missing your training. When you get out of here you’ll be so out of practice you’ll even lose to that weakling Dave. They’ll have to put you in the girls league…

[Tony’s goading seems to work and Jack gets into a boxing stance]

Jack: You ready?

Tony: Yep. Go on!

[Jack tries a few jabs out on the cushions]

Tony: Put some effort in! You’re supposed to be taking out your aggression on these things. [Nods down at the cushions]

[Jack swings a much stronger right hook. Tony is straining to keep his balance]

Tony: Now tell me what it’s for…

Jack: That was for.. That was for Nikki’s other bloke for getting her pregnant and leaving. [Punches again] That’s for her Mum, and [Punches again] That’s for her Dad for not supporting her.

Tony: Good, come on, what else…

Jack: [Punches] For Nikki going off with him in the first place, [Punches] For her not being careful, [Punches] For her already deciding she wants it more than m… I mean for her deciding she wants to keep it [Punches] For not telling me earlier, [Punches] For doing this all here, now.

Tony: Anything else?

Jack: [Punches] For the bloody cancer ruining everything… [Punches] for telling her to leave…[Punches harder] for not being strong enough to ask her to stay… [Punches harder still nearly knocking Tony over] for being so stupid!

[He punches again and again but his eyes are glistening with tears and he’s biting his bottom lip. The punches get weaker, and when they’re weak enough Tony drops his defensive stance, sheds the cushions and puts his arm around Jack]

Tony: Dumping her now is not going to put it all right Jack. You still love her or you wouldn’t be this upset. In fact I’ve never seen you this gone over of a girl before…

Jack: [Trying to compose himself] But she’s pregnant.

Tony: So what? You love her, you’d probably have settled down with her and had kids eventually. And even if her family don’t care, you’d have me and Gran to help out. You’ll regret it forever if you lose her over this Jack. When you want to be with someone nothing should stop you.

[There is a pause as Jack considers Tony’s words]

Jack: You can really see me as a Dad?

Tony: Yes, but that’s not the point. Can you?

Jack: [He thinks about it] I need to see Nikki.

[Jack walks straight out of the room and into the living room. Nikki and Anna are seated on the sofa. They look up when they hear Jack enter]

Anna: [To Nikki] Do you want me to hang around?

Nikki: No, I’ll be fine.

Anna: You sure?

Nikki: Yeah.

Anna: [Standing and walking past Jack] You’d better not upset her, man.

[Jack waits until Anna has left the room before sitting next to Nikki]

Nikki: Well?

Jack: I’ve been thinking about this a lot…

Nikki: Go on…

Jack: I love you, nah, I really mean it. Scouts honour like. I don’t want us to break up.

Nikki: [Protectively holding her stomach] And the baby?

Jack: Yeah, and the baby If you still want me?

Nikki: Of course I do. [She puts one hand flat on her stomach and reaches out to hold Jack’s hand] You two are the most important people in my life. Are you sure now?

Jack: Yeah. I’m a bit scared about being a parent, but it could be good. I could teach him to box and spin disks and stuff

Nikki: She could be a girl…

Jack: Well then I’ll teach her! [There’s a comfortable silence for a few moments as Nikki cuddles up to Jack. Then, in disbelief] Oh my God, I’m going to be a Dad.

Nikki: [In a matching tone of happy disbelief] And I’m going to be a Mum!

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

DAY TWENTY-ONE

Thursday, 12:00 - Living Room

It’s Midday on the twenty first day in the Big Brother house and the housemates have been gathered together to hear the details of their week three challenge.

[All nine housemates are together on the sofas waiting expectantly for more information]

BB: WOULD ANNA PLEASE GO TO THE STOREROOM TO PICK UP THE EQUIPMENT FOR THE TASK.

Anna: [Shrugging but getting up] Ok, Big Bro!

[The other’s all exchange glances about what she might come back with. Anna enters the room and a few seconds later re-emerges with a medium sized box. She places it down in the middle of the sofa square]

Nikki: What’s in it?

Anna: Dunno… [Louder staring at the ceiling] What now BB?

BB: INSIDE THE BOX YOU WILL FIND THE RELEVANT INSTRUCTIONS. ONE OF YOU SHOULD READ THEM CLEARLY AND CONCISELY TO THE OTHER HOUSEMATES AND THEN YOU SHOULD ALL FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS. THIS IS PART ONE OF YOUR CHALLENGE.

Charlie: Right then.

[He leans over and opens the box, pulling out the sheet on the top. All the others also lean in to get a better look at what’s in the box.]

Tony: Looks like a load of handbags or something…

Jack: This is well weird.

Duffy: Charlie, what does it say?

Charlie: It says ‘For the first part of this weeks challenge you have three minutes to take a bag each and pack enough of your belongings to last you twenty four hours. During the twenty four hours you will not have access to the rest of your belongings. When you have finished packing, please go and stand in the garden.’ That’s it.

Lara: Three minutes from when?

Charlie: Now?

Duffy: I think we should get on with it then!

[Everybody grabs on of the small bags and runs to their bedroom to search through their belongings for enough to last them twenty four hours]

Thursday, 12:04 - Garden

The housemates have all done as they were asked and have come together on the lawn waiting for further instruction. None of the housemates have any idea what they will be asked to do now and they are getting a little tense worrying about it.

Nikki: Maybe they’re going to take us somewhere? Like a field trip?

Dillon: We’re not at school Nikki…

Nikki: [Pouting] You got a better idea then?

Spencer: I’m sure we’ll all be told in good time.

Duffy: I just hope we’ve all packed the right things. This bag is smaller than my handbag!

Charlie: It’s only twenty four hours, it’s not like we’d need much anyway.

Lara: [Jokingly] Speak for yourself, right girls?

BB: WOULD CHARLIE AND DILLON PLEASE RETRIEVE THE EQUIPMENT FOR THE SECOND PART OF THE CHALLENGE FROM THE OUTSIDE STOREROOM, AND READ OUT THE INSTRUCTIONS TO THE REST OF THE GROUP AS BEFORE.

Charlie: [Heading to the storeroom] Well, we’ll find out soon enough.

[Dillon follows him and they each return seconds later with two bundles and a large holdall. They dump them on the ground by the rest of the group. Duffy kneels down and examines the larger of the bundles]

Duffy: This looks a lot like a…

Dillon: Tent. Yeah. That’s a groundsheet.

Anna: [unzipping the holdall] Blankets. What do the instructions say?

Charlie: ‘Big Brother has provided you with a tent and nine blankets. Your challenge is to spend the next twenty four hours in the garden, with no access to the house at all. The vegetable garden and the chickens will be your only sources of food to be cooked on the barbeque. Utensils, bowls and a small amount of bread and rice can be found in the cupboard under the barbeque. There is an outside toilet and outdoor shower, and you will have only the belongings you packed into the small bags. How you wish to spend your time outside is your own decision. You will be allowed back into the house only at midday tomorrow. Big Brother also informs you that the tent supports have built in infrared cameras so that you will still be observed at all times.’

Duffy: Well, that’s not so bad. I though it’d be terrible, but camping is simple enough. I’ve taken the boys up to the Peak District a couple of times now… It is only for a day.

Charlie: As long as it doesn’t rain.

Duffy: We have a tent.

Tony: But we won’t be able to use the barbeque if it rains.

Duffy: It’s a beautiful day, it won’t rain. Come on, cheer up everyone. This’ll be fun.

[There is a general sound of moaning from the group]

Spencer: I agree with the Sister, there’s nothing wrong with spending a day in the outdoors.

Duffy: Thank you Spencer.

Lara: I suppose it won’t be too bad. I had to cope with some pretty basic conditions in Sierra Leone…

Tony: Jack and I used to go camping sometimes when we were little, right bro?

Jack: [Looking unimpressed by the thought] Yeah. It was horrible. Cold and damp for days and you’d finally get to sleep and then wake up with things crawling all over you. [Shudders] Nasty.

Tony: Jack’s scared of spiders and once there was this really big one and it got in his sleeping bag and…

Jack: Shut up!

Tony: Oh come on it’s really funny!

Jack: No it’s not!

Nikki: What? Tell me, tell me, tell me! Go on…

Jack: You do and I’ll… I’ll… tell them all about your tenth birthday party…

Tony: You wouldn’t dare.

Jack: Try me.

Tony: Ok, Ok, nothing happened with Jack and the spider…

Jack: Thank you!

Tony: [Under his breath] He certainly didn’t wet himself.

Jack: You little…

[Jack lunges at Tony and Tony runs away. They chase around the garden for a while]

Duffy: [In her most forceful ‘mother’ voice] Boys! Please, calm down. Jack leave your brother alone. Tony, apologise.

[Jack and Tony are so stunned that they both stop and look ashamed of themselves]

Tony: Sorry.

Jack: S’ok. [Defensively] I was only four, it’s not like it was recent.

Duffy: Now maybe we can get on, put this tent up. Yes?

[The group start emptying the pieces of the tent out of the bundle. Charlie comes round to Duffy]

Charlie: You don’t have to be mother to them you know.

Duffy: [Laughing] Don’t I? Anyway, in a funny sort of way it makes me feel useful.

[Charlie frowns, clearly not sure that he understands what she means. They lapse into silence as the group try to piece together the tent]

Thursday, 15: 27 - Garden

The housemates have finally succeeded in putting the tent up, it takes up a large amount of room but has been put at the far end of the lawn to give them room to manoeuvre around it. Nikki has found a discarded ice cream tub lid and she, Jack, Tony, Anna, and Dillon have devised a Frisbee game using it. Charlie and Duffy have declined to play but are watching the others with some amusement. Lara and Spencer have volunteered to make dinner, a sort of vegetable stew.

Lara: So do you actually know how to make this?

Spencer: Well, not exactly… I’m sure it’ll be edible though, and we can pad it out with the bread and rice.

Lara: But then we won’t have anything for tomorrow…

Spencer: We need to have a good filling meal tonight to keep us warm in that tent. Tomorrow we’ll be back in the house anyway.

Lara: That’s true. Very sensible, what’d we do without you eh?

Spencer: I’m sure you’d survive Dr Stone.

[There’s a comfortable pause in the conversation as they continue with their food preparation. Lara is chopping carrots, Spencer is peeling potatoes]

Lara: Spencer, can I ask you something?

Spencer: Fire away Dr Stone.

Lara: [Looking slightly uncomfortable all of a sudden] I just wondered, how did you end up homeless?

Spencer: Ah, long story… Basically I let the demon drink get a hold of me.

Lara: I kinda… well, I knew that, but… why? I mean, you had a good job in the Navy and a family so…

Spencer: Why did I start drinking? There was an accident, down at the south pole, a young lad, only seventeen… I did the best I could, but I couldn’t save him. He died right there in my arms and I couldn‘t forgive myself it. [Pauses, takes a deep breath] You know the only other person I’ve ever explained things to was your Patrick.

Lara: Really? Much as I… I love him… he’s never struck me as the sort of man people would chose to confide in.

Spencer: He was a good bloke, a gentleman. I miss him.

Lara: You’re not the only one.

Spencer: I’ll tell you what though, I’ll bet you any money he’s up there right now laughing at the lot of us in here!

Lara: [Smiling] I think you’re right.

[Meanwhile across the lawn the Frisbee game is continuing with much enthusiasm. It’s a version of ‘piggy in the middle’ four people stand around the edge of the lawn, and one person in the middle who has to try to catch the Frisbee as it’s thrown between the others. Anna is currently ‘It’]

Anna: Aww, come on man, you lot are all taller than me, it’s not fair!

Jack: [Catching a throw from Dillon to his left and passing it to Tony who is just in front of the pool] You don’t have to be taller, just faster!

Anna: [Out of breath] I’m going as fast as I can!

[Tony throws to Nikki, Nikki back to Dillon. Dillon takes too long to decide where he’s throwing next and Anna gets up close to mark him. He starts trying to dodge around her.]

Jack: Come on, throw it!

Dillon: I’m trying.

[He makes a few aborted attempts to get past Anna, but she’s being tenacious]

Tony: To me Dillon!

[Dillon jumps up and throws the Frisbee in Tony’s direction. It flies very high, and Tony starts backing in an attempt to be able to catch it. He’s not looking where he’s going, stumbles and falls backwards into the pool. There is a big splash and everyone turns to stare. Anna and Nikki start to giggle, but stop when they realise that Tony is flailing around but can‘t right himself enough to get out. He appears to be going under. Everyone rushes forward and Dillon is the first one there. He jumps into the pool and drags Tony out.]

Dillon: Mate, Tony, are you OK?

Tony: [Spluttering and coughing] Yeah. Think so. Thanks.

Jack: [Pushing forward] Tony!

Tony: [Shaking a bit but gradually composing himself] I’m alright. Just give me a minute…

Duffy: [Rushing to the tent and pulling out one of the blankets] Here… [Dashing back to Tony] Put this around you.

[He does as she tells him, but is still leaning on Dillon for support. Dillon manoeuvres him around so they sit on the side of the pool together.]

Charlie: I think we should send you off for some medical treatment…

Tony: I am perfectly OK, I’m just not a good swimmer that’s all. I’m fine Charlie, honestly.

Charlie: Lara? You’re our doctor…

Lara: Moving in to take a good look at Tony, checking his pulse] He seems alright. I think if he just gets into some dry clothes and has a sit down for a while he’ll be fine.

Tony: You heard her, I’m fine.

Dillon: Come on, lets get you into the tent.

[Dillon leads Tony to the tent, and everyone else disperses and sits down a little subdued]

Jack: I don’t think they should allow us in this garden, it’s well dangerous out here!

[Spencer and Lara are heading back to the barbeque. Spencer seems even quieter than normal]

Lara: Spencer? Are you alright?

Spencer: [he does his best to clear his expression, but still looks slightly perturbed] The sound he made when he fell, all the slashing… And because we’ve just been talking about it all… reminded me, you know. But really I’m fine.

Lara: Good.

[She gives him a quick hug, and he blushes]

Thursday, 15: 40 - Inside the tent

[Tony is pulling a spare T shirt and shorts from his small bag. Dillon is already changed out of his wet clothes and is hovering about looking worried for his friend’s condition]

Dillon: Are you sure you don’t want a proper check up?

Tony: Lara says I’m alright. Except I can still taste the chlorine from the pool. [He makes a face]

Dillon: No permanent damage done then.

Tony: No. [Wait’s a second, his brow furrowed as though trying to decide what to say next] Dillon…

Dillon: Yep.

Tony: Thanks for saving me.

Dillon: That’s OK, would have done the same for anyone.

Tony: Would you make such an effort to make sure they were OK too?

Dillon: [Looking confused] I don’t know what you mean…

Tony: Just that not even my own brother has come in to make sure I’m recovered.

Dillon: Tony, I’m sure Jack’s worried about you. Probably just doesn’t want to crowd you. Maybe I should go too…

Tony: No don’t! [calms down a bit] I just mean, well, it’s good to have the company. I like your company.

Dillon: [Still seeming confused and a little awkward] I like yours too.

Tony: [Beaming] Good. You know, from the moment we met I knew that we had a… bond with each other.

Dillon: [Backing to the tent opening] We’re mates.

Tony: [Moving forward towards Dillon] But it’s more than that, isn’t it? The way you helped me just now, the way you held me…

Dillon: Look, I don’t know what you’re on about Tony. You looked like you were drowning so I helped you. That’s it, nothing more than that.

Tony: [Stopping his advance] But I’ve seen the way you act, the way you look at me… Dillon, you can be honest about it. I feel the same way.

Dillon: [Looking very flustered] Tony, I’m not gay. I don’t have feelings for you beyond friendship. I never have, I never will.

Tony: But…

Dillon: There isn’t a ‘but’ Tony. I’m sorry, I can’t help how I am… I’m not gay!

[Dillon turns and leaves the tent, leaving Tony, still wrapped in his sodden blanket, looking devastated]

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

DAY TWENTY-TWO

Friday, 01:12 - Garden

Day twenty-two in the Big Brother House, and the housemates have been challenged to live in the garden for twenty-four hours. The house has not been locked for the duration of the challenge, but so far no one has been tempted to try to go inside, not even after Tony’s near drowning. It’s now night time and the housemates have built a campfire using some of the barbeque fuel. Tony s the only member of the household to have retired to bed already.

[Everyone bar Tony has brought their blankets out to sit on and wrap up with, and are in a circle around the camp fire. Nikki and Jack are cuddled up together. Lara is sitting next to Dillon sharing a blanket across their shoulders. Duffy and Anna are attempting to toast small pieces of bread on the fire using long twigs. They are having little success.]

Lara: It’s a nice night to be outside on.

Charlie: Thank god it didn’t rain.

Anna: Charlie man, you’ve jinxed it now!

Dillon: Well, we’re over half way through this challenge and so far we’ve done well.

Anna: Shame about Tony though. Is he alright? I’ve barely seen him since the pool incident.

Dillon: He’s fine.

Anna: Maybe someone should go check on him? [Looks accusingly at Jack] Jack?

Jack: He’ll be fine. Besides I’m comfortable here.

[Nikki grins and cuddles closer]

Anna: He is your family Jack!

Jack: And so are Nikki and Jack Junior here. Tony’s big enough and ugly enough to look after himself.

Lara: You could go Dillon. You too seem to get on well.

Dillon: [Defensively] No we don’t!

Anna: Of course you do man, what are you talking about?

Dillon: I just think someone else would be better. You go Anna, if you’re so worried about him.

Anna: Fine. If no one else acres, I will.

[Anna gets up and goes to the tent]

Friday, 01:14 - Tent

[Tony is wrapped up in blanket huddled up on the floor when Anna walks in]

Anna: It’s freezing in here! Tony, you’ll end up with pneumonia . Come out to the fire with the rest of us.

Tony: [Sounding subdued] Nah, I’ll be alright here.

Anna: What’s up?

[She sits down on the floor next to him, and he sits up]

Tony: I’ve made a prat of myself, that’s all.

Anna: Everyone will have forgotten by morning. You fell into a pool, big deal. We’re all friends here man.

Tony: [grunting laughter] I don’t think so.

Anna: What do you mean by that. Tony, tell me, I’m a mate aren’t I?

Tony: Yeah, you are. I suppose everyone in the world knows now anyway…

Anna: Knows what? [Nudging him playfully] Don’t keep me in suspense!

Tony: You remember that I said I fancied someone I work with… well, he’s here.

Anna: Nah, you’re kidding, who?!

Tony: Anna! Who do you think? It’s not going to be Jack, and Charlie and Spencer aren’t exactly my type.

Anna: [Taking a second to think about who that leaves] Ooooooh Dillon. Well he is good looking, just don’t tell him I said that! I don’t get why you’re all weird about it now though.

Tony: I sort of told him. I really thought he was interested Anna.

Anna: But I’ve seen him with girls…

Tony: That doesn’t always mean anything. Does this time though. How am I ever supposed to face him again?

Anna: He’ll be alright about it.

Tony: If one of your girls friends made a pass at you how would you feel about it. Be honest now…

Anna: [Looking a little bit guilty] I’d be well freaked out by it. I mean, it’d kinda be flattering I suppose but if it was someone I’d been friends with for a while… it’d be weird.

Tony: He’s never gonna talk to me again now. I’ve lost a really good friend just ’cause I misjudged the situation.

Anna: You can’t hide in the tent forever though.

Tony: I can try.

Friday: 01: 20 - Garden

Following the comments about it raining, Charlie and Duffy have decided that they should water the vegetable garden and have left the others around the camp fire chatting.

Charlie: What did you mean earlier about feeling useful?

Duffy: Nothing, it doesn’t matter Charlie. Can you turn the tap on?

Charlie. [Turning the tap on] There you go… The thing is, it sounded like it meant something.

Duffy: I’m just missing home.

Charlie: And that’s all?

Duffy: Yes.

Charlie: Duffy? Why did you come here? I mean we all need our heads read, but you’re the only one of us with a young family outside.

Duffy: I want the prize money.

Charlie: None of us are here for that. For the experience, for fun, ‘cause we have nothing better to do, or because we got roped in by our girlfriend…

Duffy: Fine then. I got roped in by my girlfriend.

Charlie: Duffy, I’m only trying to understand. I usually have a pretty good idea why you do things but this has me baffled.

[Duffy walks back to the tap and turns it off, dumping her hose in a heap on the paving. Charlie is waiting for her to speak]

Duffy: You want the truth?

Charlie: Always.

Duffy: I didn’t want to be left out. [Charlie motions to speak and she silences him with a look] Let me finish Charlie. I know where I stand at home. I’m a mother and a daughter, and a widow. I know I’m needed to look after the kids, and the house and that they love me, and so does Mum, no matter how difficult she can be. But at work I feel, well, I feel, I don’t know, superfluous to requirements.

Charlie: You’re the Charge Nurse, of course we need you!

Duffy: You need a Charge Nurse. It wouldn’t matter if it was me, or Eve or Ash. Colette’s been around more than I have this year, she’s practically doing my job now. Nobody notices if I’m there or not.

Charlie: I notice.

Duffy: Do you though? We used to spend time together. We used to discuss the department, work as a team, we used to have a coffee together in our breaks. Now I’m the last person to find out what’s going on in the department. No one even told me that Max had resigned, I found out by overhearing a couple of student nurses on the bus in. And you spend all your free time with Jan…

Charlie: You’re not jealous of Jan? Duffy, you’ve been my best friend for years, my relationship with Jan shouldn’t change that.

Duffy: But it does. I don’t like her, she doesn’t like me. Of course it’ll make a difference to our friendship.

Charlie: You don’t like her? Why?

Duffy: [Practically spitting] She’s scheming and manipulative.

Charlie: [Appalled, and glancing up at one of the cameras as if to see if Jan was watching proceedings] Duffy!

Duffy: I said as much to her face before she left. She got rid of Max and she’s using you to keep the rest of us in place.

Charlie: That’s rubbish, Jan isn’t like that.

Duffy: So you’d trust a woman you’ve been sleeping with for five minutes over a friend of nearly twenty years standing. Well thanks a bunch Charlie.

Charlie: I’m just saying I think you have her all wrong. You need to spend some time with her, get to know her.

Duffy: I don’t want to get to know her! Look, Charlie, you’re my closest friend and I want to see you happy. I was a bit surprised when I found out about Jan but I gave her a chance, I encouraged you and I was really happy that one of us was getting their life on track, but since then…[Takes a calming breath] I don’t trust her. She’s out for her own gain and she doesn’t care who she tramples on in the process. You deserve better than her.

Charlie: Better than her? Like who? I love her Duffy, and I’m sorry you have such a low opinion of her but really it’s got nothing to do with you. Maybe she isn’t perfect but who of us is? I’m sorry if you feel left out, and I’ll make an effort to include you more in work matters from now on, but I’m not ending things with Jan.

Duffy: She’ll hurt you!

Charlie: What you’ve said about her hurts me. [Sighing] Duffy, it’s far too late at night to discuss this now. I’m tired, I’m going to turn in.

Duffy: I don’t want us to fight.

Charlie: Neither do I. That’s why I think we should drop this subject now. Goodnight.

[Charlie walks off and leaves Duffy behind. When he’s out of sight she breaks down into tears and becomes so busy trying to control her tears with the sleeve of her jumper that she obviously doesn’t hear Lara approach]

Lara: Duffy? Is there anything I can do?

Duffy: [Sniffing and composing herself, looking embarrassed about her state] No, Lara.

Lara: Did you have an argument with Charlie? I saw him storm off…

Duffy: Sometimes I think my mouth and my brain aren’t connected at all. Of course he believes her, I knew he would. He loves her.

Lara: Jan? Duffy, I don’t understand…

Duffy: It doesn’t matter Lara, really. We’ll sort it out, we always do sooner or later. I just hope she’s watching, and she feels bloody guilty for the way she treats him.

Friday, 12:00 - Garden

All nine housemates are dotted around the garden. There has a distinct lack of conversation between them since they awoke four hours ago and ate a meagre rice-y breakfast. In some cases this appears due to what was said before, but the others are also sore and tired from a night spent on the ground. The sky is overcast and they are just waiting to be let back inside.

BB: BIG BROTHER IS PLEASED TO INFORM YOU THAT YOU HAVE PASSED THE CHALLENGE. YOU ARE ALL NOW FREE TO RETURN TO THE HOUSE. YOU WILL HAVE HOT WATER IN THE BATHROOM FOR THE NEXT TWO HOURS.

Charlie: Thank God for that.

Jack: I’m in the shower first. I can still feel things crawling on me!

[They all file in, Dillon and Tony avoiding each other regardless of Anna trying to herd then together. Duffy smiles tentatively at Charlie, and he returns the gesture but doesn’t go over to talk to her and instead heads straight to the boy’s room. ]

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