A sitting room in Jake and Ellie's cottage somewhere in the home counties. It is 6:30 pm on a Spring evening. Seated at the upstage end of the dining table, busy peeling potatoes, is Jake, in his late thirties. He is in a wheelchair but this is not immediately obvious. Ellie, his wife of 11 years is in the kitchen (off right) preparing the rest of the meal. Music plays loudly on the hifi. Jake sings along to the tune and is not paying attention to the music, his mind is on something else. The tune ends. It catches Jake unaware. He starts to sing the next verse which of course doesn't come. He looks slightly embarrassed, then shrugs and turns his attention again to the task in hand.

Jake: So my beauty, now you must die. (He stabs the potato he has just peeled in a frenzy, whilst shrieking to himself a la Phsyco shower scene.) Oh God. If only. If only it was that easy.

Ellie: (Off) What did you say? (She appears in the doorway with a carving knife in her hand, she sees the mess he has made on the table) Grow up can't you? Honestly, I don't know why I bother sometimes. (She goes to the hifi to turn it off, She is obviously at the end of her tether.)

Jake: I hadn't noticed you were.

Ellie: (Not hearing him) What?

Jake: Bothering. (pause) of late, that is. Not since......

Ellie: What are you talking about?

Jake: (changing the subject) I've just committed the perfect murder. Cold. Brutal it was. He didn't stand a chance. And, what is more, I enjoyed every minute of it.

Ellie: Oh really?

Jake: Yes.

Ellie: Do you think you're funny?

Jake: No. Sorry.

Ellie: Me too (She kisses him affectionately, not lovingly, on the top of his head, he doesn't respond.) I've been a bit, you know.

Jake: Yeah. I know.

Ellie: Well. Sorry.

(A tense pause, there are strong undercurrents)

Ellie: Who was it?

Jake: Who was what?

Ellie: That you just murdered, idiot.

Jake: Oh! Mr Potato Head. Seems a bit silly now.

Ellie: Hmmm.

Jake: I'll clear up this mess.

Ellie: Too bloody right you will. Do you want a drink while I'm here?

Jake: Please.

Ellie: What'll you have?

Jake: What are you having?

Ellie: Have we got any of your home-brew left?

Jake: (sharply) No ... Sorry. No, we haven't.

Ellie: Only asking. No need to get so tetchy about it.

Jake: Sorry.

Ellie: I was going to pour us a glass of it that's all. I thought it was rather good. A bit heavy but quite drinkable. If you weren't too fussy. Wouldn't do for our guests, of course. You know how fussy Helen can be, especially when it comes to wine. But yours was Okay for a quick slurp now and then.

Jake: (sarcastically) My word. If I didn't know better I'd have said that that sounded like a criticism.

Ellie: No.... It really was all right, in a crude sort of way.

Jake: Not the wine.

Ellie: Not the wine?

Jake: That you were criticising. When did you have any of it?

Ellie: The wine? Are you OK?

Jake: Yes. And yes, just fine.

Ellie: (She struggles not to lose her temper) .... I had some a couple of weeks ago. I don't remember exactly. Why, does it matter?

Jake: No. No reason. No ...er. Anyway, there will be no more Chateau Jake. I've dismantled it all and thrown it away. All the equipment.

Ellie: I know.

Jake: (slightly surprised) What?

Ellie: I said 'I know'. Well don't look at me like that. It wasn't a secret or anything, you know. Underhand. Was it? Only a drop of wine.

Jake: How did you know?

Ellie: What, that you'd thrown it away?

Jake: Yes

Ellie: The dustman told me.

Jake: The dustman?

Ellie: Yes. Actually he complained at me rather than told me. Said you shouldn't put broken glass in refuse sacks. Said they could have hurt themselves.

Jake: It was broken. I dropped it on the garage floor. The glass twisty thing.

Ellie: Yes. I presumed as much, when the binman told me about it. But don't worry, I told him how sorry you would be and I promised you'd make it up with a big tip at Christmas.

Jake: Oh great. Look, I don't think you ought to discuss our personal matters with all and sundry.

Ellie: What's got into you recently. All and sundry indeed. What are you talking about? He's the dustman, not MI5.

Jake: You just shouldn't let people know our situation, that's all.

Ellie: Not that they'd be interested. But they're all going to find out soon enough.

Jake: Maybe so, but not now.

Ellie: You can't cover it up you know. You can't just pretend it isn't happening.

Jake: No. I know.

(pause)

Ellie: Why didn't you just replace it instead of chucking the whole lot out? It cost enough.

Jake: No. I've finished with all that. Seems a bit pointless. A cheap way to get legless we said at the time, remember?

Ellie: Yes I do. (pause) But you should have a hobby, something to occupy that tiny mind of yours. Now that......

Jake: Don't worry. I've got plenty to think about. (pause) Now that ... I'm stuck in this wheelchair.

Pause

Ellie: I didn't mean to ... you know.

Jake: I know.

Ellie: So. A drink.

Jake: Yes. What are you having?

Ellie: Chef's privilege. The first glass from each bottle that's opened. (She holds up a bottle of wine from the rack)

Jake: Please, er. Which one is that?

Ellie: It's the one Helen bought me for my birthday. Why?

Jake: Let's not have that one, eh?

Ellie: Why not?

Jake: No reason. I er. ...It's just that I thought you might like to ... keep that one until she gets here. You know, it would be symbolic. Sort of, anyway. They'll be here soon and it is a rather nice one. A special line from her little man in town that she bores everybody rigid with, no doubt. You'd think she was on a commission the way she talks about that off licence. Do you mind about her having a 'little man' in town?

Ellie: I suppose I should be pleased that you can make jokes about this situation. Well maybe 'joke' is a little too strong. But at least you are taking it all in good stead. Most men would be angry, or at least upset if their wives were about to leave them, especially for another woman.

Jake: Ah yes. But I'm not most men. Am I?

Ellie: No you're not.

Jake: And anyway I have a sneaking suspicion that we will always be together, in one way or another.

Ellie: That's very deep, for you.

Jake: Oh I don't know. A part of you will always be with me, and nobody can take away the memories, can they?

Ellie: No.

Jake: And there have been some good memories, haven't there?

Ellie: Yes. Yes there have. Very good. (She looks curiously at the cork) Is this bottle all right. Look. The cork looks a bit, you know.

Jake: What?

Ellie: You know!

Jake: No. I don't know. It's a cork, that's all. What's it supposed to look like? It looks fine to me.

Ellie: No. It definitely looks as if it's been, you know. There, see.

Jake: Looks fine to me.

Ellie: You are the bloody limit sometimes, you know. It would serve you right if it was antifreeze or poison or you know. And we all died.

Jake: Well, considering whence it came, that is hardly likely. Is it?

Ellie: Meaning?

Jake: Nothing.

Ellie: (emphatically) Meaning?

Jake: Meaning that unless she wants to do us in, it's not very likely is it?

Ellie: Oh for Goodness sake, she's not mad you know. Unlike you.

Jake: Oooh touchy. I mean I could see why she might want to do me in, but not you, surely? You two haven't had a tiff have you? Yes, doing me in might suit her very well, don't you think?

Ellie: Stop it. I told you, she's very grateful to you for the way you are handling this whole situation.

Jake: Don't get a lot of choice really, do I?

Ellie: Look are you sure about tonight?

Jake: Yes.

Ellie: Really sure? Nobody would blame you if you didn't want to go through with it.

Jake: Yes. It's not going to be easy. But, yes I am sure.

Ellie: We can still cancel, you know. They'd understand.

Jake: (emphatically) I am sure.

Ellie: Thank you. It means a lot to me.

Jake: Yes. Well.

Ellie: Look. You are my husband. And you are the only man for me. That must mean something? But she is very special to me.

Jake: (Quickly) Yes, I know.

Ellie: I always have loved her and probably always will. Who knows when she and I are ninety it'll probably be her pushing me in a wheelchair along the High Street.

Jake: OK. Don't push it. Dearest.

Ellie: (She sits) You have to accept this Jake, We've been over this a thousand times. I knew her before I met you. You had your eyes open. You were an intelligent man. Are, an intelligent man.....

Jake: Thank you.

Ellie: .....sometimes. Even if you are a bit of a fool to yourself.

Jake: It's just that I .....

Ellie: What?

Jake: Nothing. I'm sorry. You are right.

Ellie: I just want to make the end as pleasant as it can be. I mean a chapter ends, you know. I love you. But, I'm in love with her. But I'm here, with you today. Aren't I?

Jake: Today. Yes.

Ellie: Please, darling. Look, I've been thinking. I'm not going tonight. I'll stay till the weekend. If that's OK with you.

Jake: Why?

Ellie: Because I think it would be easier if I went then.

Jake: Easier? How so, easier?

Ellie: Well I ....

Jake: Are you telling me the truth?

Ellie: I looked at my chart again as well, but I ...

Jake: Ah.

Ellie: ... want to say goodbye to you properly. With nobody else here. Just us. You know.

Jake: Should I be thankful. For that stay of execution.

Ellie: Don't start all that again. Hm?

Jake: I didn't start it.

Ellie: Oh please.

Jake: Well. I didn't.

Ellie: No dear. You didn't. You just sit there like a good little boy, murdering Mr Potato Head. (pause)

Jake: Why go at all?

Ellie: Don't.

Jake: Don't?

Ellie: Don't ask me to choose. That's all.

Jake: Ah yes. "No Ultimatums!". Funny really, because that's an ultimatum itself isn't it? A bit like "I hate generalisations". (pause) Isn't there a name for things like that?

Ellie: Yes. 'Stupid'. Wine?

Jake: What, oh. Yes please. But not hers. OK?

Ellie: All right. (Choosing another bottle) How about this one?

Jake: Oh yes. That'll do nicely.

Ellie: (Opening the bottle. We see a glimpse of the old them) Would sir like to try the wine first, or simply throw it down his neck in his normal uncontrollable manner? (She hands him a 'damp-glass 'of wine, as if to try it before drinking)

Jake: Oh come on. Don't be horrid. (She fills his glass) Ah, that's better. I think today I shall slosh it around a bit in order to fully appreciate the delicate yet finely balanced bucket. (He sniffs loudly at the wine and swallows the wine in a couple of gulps and holds his glass out for a refill) More!

Ellie: (Sarcastically) You like this one, then?

Jake: (Playfully) Don't nag and pour the wine, serving-wench.

(They drink in silence for a moment, under other circumstances they would have proposed a toast)

Jake: You know. If things had been different, then...

Ellie: Then what?

Jake: Then things would have been ... different.

Ellie: Yes.

Jake: I love you.

Ellie: (turning away) I know.

Jake: And.....

Ellie: I told you.

Jake: Tell me again.

Ellie: No.

(pause)

Ellie: I've got to, you know. There's loads still to do, Helen and Craig will be here in no time, before we know it, and....

Jake: Ah yes, Just the four of us, our last supper. How cosy.

Ellie: (ignoring his interjection) .....and you are no help are you?

Jake: No. I suppose not really.

Ellie: I didn't mean.....

Jake: I know.

Ellie: You will behave yourself tonight, won't you?

Jake: Don't know what you mean.

Ellie: Come off it. You know how obsessive you can be.

Jake: I promise.

Ellie: Yes, that's what worries me.

Jake: I promise. Scout's honour.

Ellie: You do know how much tonight means to me, don't you?

Jake: I seem to remember you mentioning it, yes.

Ellie: You won't do anything ... you know, silly. Will you?

Jake: No more than usual.

Ellie: That is not very reassuring.

Jake: But that's just a small part of my boyish, nay cherubic charm.

Ellie: Oh really?

Jake: It's why you fell in love with me. Why you married me. Remember?

Ellie: Yes. I remember very well. But, look, please Jake, you said you'd do anything for me. Anything to make me happy. I presume you meant that, when you said it.

Jake: Ouch. That was a cheap shot.

Ellie: I'm serious.

Jake: So am I. (He looks at her) Yes. When I said it, I probably did mean it. But....

Ellie: But? ... But what?

Jake: Well it's just that everybody says these things. Not thinking that it'll ever come to it. And when it does, come to it. Well, what seemed like the right thing to say at the time suddenly seems a bit bloody stupid. Funny how hindsight is always twenty-twenty.

Ellie: What are you trying to tell me Jake?

Jake: I don't know.

Ellie: Oh yes you do. You know damn well.

Jake: I am trying to tell you that I love you and that I don't want to lose you.

Ellie is silent, she can't look at him.

Jake: What I am trying to say is that ... yes, I said I would do anything for you. And I will. And that even though what you are now asking of me is extremely difficult. Difficult, huh. That I will do it. If you really want it. I'll do it. Whatever you want. I am yours to command; but then, I always was wasn't I? I will behave myself. I won't embarrass you, or your guests. Our guests. I shall conduct myself with grace and dignity. I will not stand in your way when you want to leave. And I won't be bitter or resentful. (pause) On one condition.

Silence

Ellie: (slowly) I beg your pardon.

Jake: On one condition.

Ellie: No way.

Jake: That's the deal. Take it or leave it.

Ellie: Come off it. You can't impose conditions now.

Jake: Can't I. Why not, pray?

Ellie: All right, what condition?

Jake: That you tell me truthfully and honestly that your decision has nothing to do with the fact that I'm stuck in this chair. Tell me that if I could suddenly jump to my feet and stride across the room and take you in my arms, that you would still be going. Tonight or at the weekend or whenever.

Ellie: Are you joking?

Jake: Do I look like I'm joking?

Ellie: Jake, please.

(silence)

Jake: Well?

Ellie: Jake, I do love you. I suppose I always will, a little bit. But it's not enough. I'm sorry. I don't mean to hurt you. God knows, I'd rather, you know, cut my arm off than do that. When I look at you I see you, nothing else. I don't see the wheelchair. But I can't ignore it, pretend it doesn't exist. But it isn't the reason. When I look at you I see the man I married. When I look at you I see the only man for me. The man I fully intended to live with for the rest of my life, at the time.

Jake: Well if not this lifetime, there's always the next one isn't there?

Ellie: Jake. Are you sure you're all right?

Jake: Oh yes.

Ellie: That's not like you. Next lifetime! I always thought you pooh-poohed all of that stuff.

Jake: Yes. I suppose I do. And let's face it most of that stuff that you take so seriously is absolute rubbish, but reincarnation is a little bit believable, at a push. And as it appears there's not much chance of us making it this time around I suppose I might as well start believing that we do get a second chance. Give it a try at least.

Ellie: But you are basically a good man, Jake. You have to have bad karma to come back though. So you can improve yourself.

Jake: Yes, well. We'll see, eh?

Ellie: You constantly amaze me, you know.

Jake: Can I ask you a question?

Ellie: Yes, of course you can.

Jake: Straight answer?

Ellie: To a straight question.

Jake: If it weren't for this chair, would you still be going?

Ellie: Yes.

Jake: Look at me. Look me in the eye. (She does so) Tell me you love me.

Ellie: I do.

Jake: Thank you.

Ellie: Will you behave yourself tonight?

Jake: Yes.

Ellie: (quietly) Thank you.

Jake: Pardon?

Ellie: Thank you.

Jake: Don't mention it.

Silence

Jake: Tell me, what does the charming but childishly naive Craig make of all this?

Ellie: By 'All This' I presume you mean Helen and I going away.

Jake: Yes, does he approve? Does he know? Does he care? Come to that I wonder if he even breathes sometimes. He probably hasn't even noticed. He really is one of the most uncommunicative people I have ever met. No strike that, He's not uncommunicative, he never gets the chance. He is just so boring that nobody ever bothers to enter into a conversation with him. Do you know, if I really were to contemplate the perfect murder, I think he would be very near to the top of my list of candidates. Never make the nine o'clock news, though - nobody would miss him. Who would be your candidate for the perfect murder?

Ellie: (Smiling) You. Twit.

Jake: (Genuinely taken aback) Really? Do you mean that?

Ellie: Only sometimes. (She ruffles his hair) I think he's nice. Helen's having a hard time as well you know, and he's been a good friend to her. Very supportive, almost like a brother she never had. It's not easy for any of us, in case you hadn't realised that. And he's not boring or uncommunicative, he doesn't get the chance to be, not with you around at least. You bully him awfully.

Jake: I do not.

Ellie: He is just in awe of you, because you terrorise the poor chap.

Jake: Rubbish.

Ellie: Oh yes you do. Helen had a hell of a job persuading him to come tonight. He was petrified.

Jake: What, of me?

Ellie: Yes.

Jake: Oh good. Haven't lost my touch completely then.

Ellie: Behave.

Jake: Well, as long as he's not just here to make up the numbers, so I have someone to talk to. I'd die of boredom. Just why is he coming?

Ellie: I think Helen want's an independent friend here, as a sort of backup.

Jake: Not as a referee then? In case things get nasty. In case she really did poison that wine, perhaps he's coming to bury me under the floorboards. Better check the boot of the car when they get here, if there's a shovel in there phone the authorities immediately.

Ellie: That's not funny.

Jake: Anyway how can he be independent? He's besotted with her. Hardly independent.

Ellie: He is not, be fair, Jake.

Jake: I am being fair. Far too fair, if you ask me. Perhaps she's going to tell you that they are running away together and it's all over between you two. Never mind dear, you can cry on my shoulder.

Ellie: It's good to see you like this you know. It reminds me of why I married you.

Jake: Is it? I really haven't changed that much in eleven years, have I?

Ellie: Being in that wheelchair does alter certain things, you know?

Jake: Why?

Ellie: What do you mean, why?

Jake: Simple question. I loved you, inspite of your, how shall I put it, 'unconventional' feelings. Inspite of your involvement with Helen. Why can't you want me still, even though I'm in this contraption?

Ellie: Are you sure it was inspite of. And not because of?

Jake: No. I'm not sure. Not sure at all, actually. I suppose I thought I had so much to give you that you wouldn't want anything else. Anybody else. I was wrong I suppose. If it was another man I think I could understand it. I couldn't forgive it, but I could understand it. Somehow this way I can forgive but I can't understand. And I don't understand why I can't understand.

Ellie: Oh Jake. You really are a lovely man. If only you could accept me for what I am. I can't change. It's not what I want but I accept it. Why can't you accept it?
I don't always understand it either. God knows I wish I did, I suppose I'm not meant to understand, but I am true to myself.

Jake: I thought I could accept it. At first. But now circumstances have changed.

Ellie: But you are still the same person. (pause) But I haven't changed either.

Jake: Ah.

Pause

Ellie: Have you reconsidered what the doctor said?

Jake: What, you mean about the physio?

Ellie: Yes. I wish you would.

Jake: Er no. I think it's all probably a bit of a waste of time really. Isn't it?

Ellie: Look. If you really want things to change. I mean really want them to change then maybe it can happen.

Jake: Really.

Ellie: Yes, you know. Faith moving mountains and all that.

Jake: Can anything change?

Ellie: Yes.

Jake: Can any one change?

Ellie: Yes darling. Of course you can.

Jake: Can you change. Your mind I mean.

(pause)

Ellie: Look Jake. Please don't.

Jake: (a hard edge in his voice) Well, can you? Will you?

Ellie: No.

Jake: No. I thought not. So, what's the point in me trying? Eh? Maybe it's all destiny. Like that astrological rubbish you used to believe in.

Ellie: Oh not that again.

Jake: Yes. That again. What did your precious stars say about this evening, huh? Perhaps we should consult the runes.

Ellie: There is something in it, more than we.....

Jake: There is what? There is nothing. that's what there is. No-bloody-thing in it (He drains his glass) Just like my glass. (He refills his glass)

Ellie: It's always the same with you. If you don't understand something, you just ridicule it. Then you dive into the nearest wine bottle. Have you any idea what that can be like, for me? And for Helen?

Jake: And I'll have a bloody drink if I want one. Seeing as I can't have you.

Ellie: Hope it kills you.

Jake: Well if it doesn't I'll do it myself.

Ellie: No you won't.

Jake: No? Just you wait. You'll be sorry. A handful of pills and a bottle of booze and that would be that.

Ellie: Don't be pathetic. It's very unbecoming.

Jake: What is so pathetic about not wanting to live anymore. If I can't have you. I might as well.

(pause)

Ellie: I'd miss you; you know.

Jake: Really?

Ellie: Yes, actually.

Jake: Oh.

(A Silence)

Jake: Am I supposed to care what it's like for her? It's hard enough to care what it's like for me. With or without this wheelchair, what's left for me? What it'll be like for me after you've gone, that's what I'm worrying about; not worrying about her. You have the nerve to expect me to worry about her feelings. How dare you.

Ellie: I knew it. I bloody knew it.

Jake: Knew what?

She picks up the phone and dials Helen's number which she knows by heart

Ellie: I knew it was a daft idea. How could I ever have thought that you wouldn't do your best to ruin the whole thing. My one chance. How could I have been so stupid as to think for a minute that I could have rescued something from what we had. God Jake, you are so impossible sometimes. I wanted to hold on to some little piece of what we were, what we had. It was good, wasn't it?

Jake: Yes. It was. I want it to be good again.

Ellie: What is wrong with that? Tell me. (Jake cannot answer) I didn't want to have all of both of you, but I thought I might at least be able to keep some little nugget of what were some of the best years of my life. But as far as you are concerned it's all or nothing, isn't it? There's no compromise.

Jake: Thanks. I thought I was compromising rather well. Who are you phoning?

Ellie: Who do you think? I'm going to cancel.

Jake: Ellie. Please. Listen to me. I'm sorry. I swear on my mother's life I'll behave. Of course it's hard for her. But none of us are having an easy time for God's sake. Please don't cancel. Please. I'll do anything. I promise.

Ellie: Hello Helen, darling. Listen. I'm sorry. We've just had a blazing row...........Yes I think that's best.............You understand don't you? ..........Yes I knew you would. ............ I'll phone you later...............Bye. (To Jake) Well are you happy now?

Jake: No. Not particularly. You?

Ellie: No.

Jake: So what happens now?

Ellie: (Trying to suppress her giggles) Now?

Jake: Look there's something I want to tell you. I suppose I ought to tell you now that it appears that I've gone too far. About tonight. God this is difficult. That tonight I ......... tonight I was going to ...... (Ellie cannot contain her amusement any more, she laughs) What is so funny?

Ellie: You are, my darling.

Jake: Why?

Ellie: Oh I wish I had a camera now. Your face. She wasn't in. There was no reply. They are probably on their way.

Jake: You cow.

Ellie: (laughing) Mooo!

Jake: You enjoyed that didn't you?

Ellie: I'm sorry. But I just couldn't resist it. Oh dear. What were you saying? About tonight?

Jake: Nothing. Nothing at all. You were saying about your astrological mumbo-jumbo.

Ellie: No I wasn't. After that. You were about to tell me something about tonight. What was it?

Jake: (petulantly) Nothing.

Ellie: Oh dear. Yes that's right. Have a little sulk. Just because somebody plays a little joke on you. Different when the boot is on the other foot, isn't it?

Jake: I think your sense of humour, such as it is, is in extremely bad taste.

Ellie: Well at least you admit I have a sense of humour now. You never did before. Perhaps I feel like laughing today. Perhaps I feel like doing a lot of things today, that I never have before. Perhaps I feel like running naked down the high street at midnight. Hmmm? Maybe I just might, at that. Given enough wine. Maybe, I just might like to feel the wind in my hair before it's too bloody late. While I still have the chance. All right, so it's selfish of me. Well this is me. Do you see? Me. Eleanor Robbins. Nee Spalding, spinster of this parish. Well ex-spinster. Not a bloody nurse maid. I never was very good at stuff like that, never could stand the sight of blood. Thank God we never had kids. And I intend to be me, living my life, the way I want to live it, while it's still there to be lived. And right now that doesn't leave an awful lot of room for you I'm afraid. Sorry, but there it is. Who knows what I'm going to feel like in a years time? In ten years time? I don't. But I do know what I feel like right here, right now.

Jake: So it does have to do with this chair.

Ellie: No, Jake. It doesn't. But I will admit it does make me see things a little bit more clearly. It has made me realise that I could do it. That I can do it. Our sex life never was that good even before.

Jake: You never complained.

Ellie: No, I never complained. But that doesn't mean I never wanted to.

Jake: So if the sex was better?

Ellie: No. Jake. You're missing the whole point again. It's just that it made me realise that if I am to be true to myself, to follow my heart, then I can do it now. I don't know, Jake, maybe in marrying you I was trying to prove something that is unprovable. Unprovable because it's untrue. Maybe I was trying to deny myself. Trying to conform. Trying to be something that I could never hope to be, that I should never have tried. But with Helen, I don't have to try. I just am.

Jake: And in the meantime I fell in love with you.

Ellie: And I with you, but I can't deny myself anymore. Being a wife and, as we hoped then, a mother. All that just isn't me. I can't compromise just for the sake of it. And I think, in a strange way that you taught me that.

Jake: Oh so it's my fault now?

Ellie: No. It's not anybody's fault. There's no blame.

Jake: There we are. Ah yes. (He drinks) So, what is the point in me trying if you won't?

Ellie: That's different.

Jake: Oh yes of course. You love her. I remember you telling me. But I love you too, but the goalposts seem to have been moved. So it's all right, but I'll be left here. A cripple, emotionally and physically. A matching pair. But that's perfectly all right, isn't it?

Ellie: That's not what I meant, and you know it.

Jake: Yes. Funny thing that, but I do know it. Doesn't really change anything though does it? I'm still stuck in this chair and will probably never walk again.

Ellie: But if you did the physio, you might. Dr Shah did say there was every chance of improvement. But you are the only one who can do it. Why won't you grasp that straw? Hmm? Please, for me?

Jake: No.

Ellie: Why not?

Jake: No.

Ellie: Please.

Jake: Drop it.

Ellie: Why won't you?

Jake: Because he's a quack that Robertson.

Ellie: Robertson? I thought you were seeing Dr. Shah.

Jake: What? Oh yes. But .... he was away. Holiday or something. Dr Robertson was his locum. Anyway they are both charlatans.

Ellie: Dr. Shah is not a charlatan. Helen has worked at that hospital for over ten years and she highly recommended him. At least you haven't had any more blackouts during the past couple of weeks. That's got to be a good sign. I really was worried at first you know. You just passing out like that. I tried for four hours to wake you up you know.

Jake: Huh. And what did the 'good doctor' say about that?

Ellie: That the blood test revealed nothing unusual.

Jake: Then he must be a quack. You don't go semi comatose on one glass of wine, do you? Well I don't anyway. Not so sure about you.

Ellie: Please, Jake. Please see the Doctor again.

Jake: No.

Ellie: Then get a second opinion. See a different doctor.

Jake: No.

Ellie: Not even for me? (Jake shakes his head like a small boy refusing his medicine) Jake? Pretty please? What's the real reason?

Jake: Because you won't be here.

The doorbell rings .

Ellie: Oh God they're here, I'll go. And remember your promise. Please. (She kisses him tenderly and goes to the door, we hear the sound of general greetings as Helen and Craig enter. Helen carries an exotic orchid in an ornamental pot and a bottle.)

Jake: Helen, Craig. Come in, come in. How are you both?

Helen: Well, thank you, Jake. And you?

Craig: Hi.

Jake: Just fine.

Helen: Ellie, darling. Here, for you.

Ellie: Thank you. (She holds the orchid)

There is an uneasy silence.

Jake: Drink, anyone?

Helen: Yes, thanks. Oh I bought you a bottle of wine. I got it from that little shop I know in town. (Jake and Ellie exchange a knowing glance) Such good value in there. Much cheaper even than the Supermarkets, and this one .........

Jake: Yes, well I'll open it then shall I? Better than just talking about it, eh?

Ellie: I'll do it shall I?

Jake: No. I can manage.

Ellie: OK.

Jake: Well as this is such a nice wine, I think this probably calls for the best glassware. (He exits quickly to the kitchen)

Pause

Ellie: Sit down, please.

(They all sit.)

Ellie: I like your jacket Craig. Is it new?

Craig: No.

Ellie: It's nice, anyway.

Craig: Thanks.

Ellie: Are you all right, Craig?

Craig: Yes.

Ellie: Sure?

Craig: Just a bit of a headache.

Ellie: Do you want anything for it?

Craig: No. It's nice to be in the peace and quiet for a moment.

Helen: Yes, he's fine. He just doesn't share my taste in music I'm afraid I do play my opera CDs too loud for him in the car.

Ellie: Well no opera tonight I promise, and no drama either, I hope. And thank you for my orchid. It's lovely. Its a lovely pot. (She examines it)

Helen: Well I had to come bearing gifts, didn't I? Good job I'm not Greek.

Craig: Oh yes. 'Helen Of Troy'.

(They laugh politely)

Ellie: Did you grow it?

Helen: Yes, it's one of mine.

Ellie: Lovely. Pity they don't last long though isn't it? Like all beauty it fades too soon.

Helen: It's very rare as well. Comes from Bolivia originally, and very difficult to grow in this country and quite difficult to keep, so make sure you take good care of it.

Ellie: I'll do my best.

Helen: I lost some last month. I must have left the window open in the conservatory, because when I got back home I suppose a cat or something must have got in. Pots all over the floor. Some of them had been dug up as well. I think there are only about six of us in the country that have ever managed to successfully cultivate that particular one on a regular basis.

Ellie: And it's a lovely pot.

(pause)

Helen: I could do with a cigarette right now. (pause) Is Jake all right?

Ellie: As well as can be expected.

Helen: Dr. Shah said Jake missed his appointment again?

Ellie: He won't go. Simply refuses. He can be so stubborn sometimes. Jake said a funny thing earlier.

Helen: That'll be a first.

Ellie: No I mean funny peculiar, not funny ha-ha. I was asking him about the doctor, trying to get him to have a second opinion; he got a bit angry and he mentioned a Dr. Robertson.

Helen: So?

Ellie: But Jake is under Dr. Shah, isn't he?

Helen: Yes.

Ellie: He tried to cover it up, but I can usually read him pretty well. Or I thought I could, he's been a bit strange recently. Who is Dr Robertson?

Helen: I don't know of a Dr Robertson at the hospital. I can check for you tomorrow though if you're worried.

Ellie: He said he was a locum for Dr Shah. Has Dr Shah been away recently?

Helen: You must be kidding. The rumour is he lives at the hospital. I don't think anybody has ever seen him outside the hospital, let alone take a holiday.

Ellie: Why would Jake say that then?

Helen: Dr. Shah has to be the most dedicated man I know. Maybe he was just busy and this Dr. Robertson, whoever he is was just taking over on some of the routine cases. Try to take the pressure of, that sort of thing. It does happen occasionally.

Ellie: Yes that's probably it.

Helen: Is he still having blackouts?

Ellie: No, not recently. Thank God. That would be just too much on top of everything else. Up until that first time I didn't know the meaning of the word panic, I thought he had died; and then when the blood test revealed nothing unusual. I think it was the fact that Dr. Shah couldn't find any reason for the blackouts that has somehow made Jake give up on all things medical.

Helen: A lot of these things aren't really well understood, even with all the technology available today.

Craig: We can put a man on the moon, but we can't cure the common cold.

Helen: (Ignoring him) Look I probably shouldn't be doing this, but these might help. (She hands Ellie a bottle of pills from her handbag) They might help him.

Ellie: What are they?

Helen: They're new, not on general release yet, but Dr Shah was going to prescribe them for Jake anyway, so I'm not doing anything that the doctor wouldn't have done if Jake had kept his appointment.

Ellie: Does Dr. Shah know about this?

Helen: Not as such.

Ellie: I'm really not sure about this, Helen, are you sure they're all right?

Helen: Yes, of course I am. It happens all the time, the drug companies release small amounts of new drugs to certain doctors for field trials. They can't put them on general release because they're not geared up for full production, if the new drug is a great success, then they loose credibility if they can't meet demand. Dr Shah told me that there really is no reason why Jake couldn't walk again given time. But he must want to do it. Nobody else can do it for him. It's been, what six months now?

Ellie: Eight.

Helen: Well, unless he starts doing the exercises or going to physio soon he stands a chance of never being able to regain the use of his legs. If he leaves it too long the muscles will atrophy, but those might help delay the wasting. Sorry .... I don't mean to interfere.

Ellie: Oh that's all right. I've given up trying to persuade him. I think the simple truth is he doesn't want to walk again. (pause) All right I'll try these; I don't expect he'd take them himself, I'll put them in his food. Grind them up. He'd probably think we were poisoning him, if he knew about them. And if they ever do manage to trace the car that hit him he's expecting to be able to sue the driver and live off the damages. But without a description other than it was a black Escort there's precious little chance of that, is there?

Craig: Well your car is a ....

Helen: .... a black Escort, yes I know. It's not exactly rare though, is it?

Craig: No.

Helen: Just as long as he doesn't try to pin it on me.

Ellie: Don't worry. Not even Jake is that twisted. He may be a bit upset but he isn't totally off his rocker. Anyway, you were here with me at the time it happened, remember? (Teasingly) You said at the time you'd never forget.

Helen: Yes, but you imagine standing up in court and saying that we were in bed together at the time. Hardly a water tight alibi, my darling; and not likely to get a sympathetic reaction from a jury.

Craig looks embarrassed.

Helen: He really is taking it well, then?

Ellie: One or two iffy moments, but yes.

Craig: Can I use your loo?

Ellie: Yes of course. You know where it is. No need to ask.

Craig exits to Hall.

Ellie: Helen, really. You've embarrassed him.

Helen: So what. I love you. He knows.

Ellie: Ssssh.

Helen blows a kiss to Ellie, Ellie mouths "stop it"

Helen: What's Jake doing, blowing the glass himself? I could murder a drink.

Ellie: I'll go see.

Helen: Have you told him you're leaving tonight?

Ellie: No. I haven't. Look I was thinking perhaps it might be better to leave it till the weekend, like we planned originally.

Helen: Why?

Ellie: I just...

Helen: You haven't changed your mind, have you?

Ellie: No darling. Of course I haven't. Don't worry. Please let me play this my way. Trust me, please.

Helen: Tell me, Please.

Ellie: It's probably nothing. But I checked my chart again this afternoon and today was not a good day for me to start on a new venture, so I think I had better stay indoors. The moon will stop being retrograde by the end of the week though.

Helen: All right. You know your own mind best.

Ellie: Yes (She stands behind Helen and puts her hands on her shoulders)

Helen: Sure? (Ellie nods) OK.

Craig: (Enters): Ah.

Ellie: There you are. Better?

Craig: Yes. Thanks.

Ellie: I'll chase up those drinks.

(Ellie exits to kitchen)

Craig: Helen, your car?

Helen: Yes, Craig. What about it?

Craig: Didn't you have some damage to it some time back?

Helen: (She fixes him with a look) Yes, Craig I did; and no Craig I didn't run Jake over.

Craig: It's just that.......

Helen: Craig. I didn't run Jake over.

(Jake and Ellie enter with wine glasses and the bottle, now opened)

Jake: Sorry about the delay, I couldn't reach the cupboard. So, wine everyone?

(Jake pours out the wine and hands the glasses round during the following)

Helen: Yes please.

Craig: Thanks.

Jake: I suppose on such an auspicious occasion I ought to propose a toast, being the perfect host. So, here's to .... to.....

Helen: To understanding.

Craig: Yes.

Jake: Yes.

Helen: And to you, Jake.

(They drink as the curtain falls)