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Andrea and Sharon are at the Symphony. It's during intermission. Nicely dressed people are gathering around with their plastic glasses of refreshments.
SHARON: (takes a sip of her red cabernet) I just love the symphony. And to think if I wasn't in a rock band with my brother and sisters, I could be a successful classical violinist.
ANDREA: (lifts her glass of white wine) Hah! With the word "successful" being the questionable one.
SHARON: (with a look of humorous surprise) I'm as good as any one of those musicians. (Takes another sip and looks around) Well, Jim never showed up. He and his friend must have gotten stuck in traffic or something.
ANDREA: It was a GUY friend right?
SHARON: (LOL) Yess…one of his old mates. You remember Gregory, don't you?
ANDREA: (thinks and then points in recognition with her wine glass) Wait a minute...is he the one who was a bit flirty and…erm, naughty? (LOL) He was always trying to have a "go" at one of us.
SHARON: (laughs) That's him...though you were too young...
ANDREA: pfft...I was not.
SHARON: You were too. (Andrea gives Sharon a smart look) Anyway....if I didn't know he was all talk and completely harmless, I'd have a mind to just slap him silly.
ANDREA: "All talk"? You mean if one of us really did call his bluff?
SHARON: He'd turn tail and run. (Both women giggle)
ANDREA: That might be entertainment for a rainy day. "Rainy Day"...you know, I like the way that sounds.  I think I'll write a song around that.  What do you think?
SHARON: Not that I'm not appreciative for your song writing prowess, but hadn't you better start thinking of other things besides LYING in a bathtub and writing lyrics all day?
ANDREA: What for?!?
SHARON: Your skin, for one thing. It's beginning to look a little "pruney" (Sharon giggles, Andrea rolls her eyes) Second of all, you haven't had a date in months!
ANDREA: I just haven't met the right guy...(thinks)...though I think I might have met one yesterday.
SHARON: (attention on Andrea) WHO?!? When?!?!
ANDREA: A really sweet man I had met in the hotel gift store yesterday. We just sort of clicked.  It was cataclysmic.
SHARON: So that's where you were!
ANDREA: Mmm-hmmm...anyway we ended up having drinks in the hotel lounge.
SHARON: I knew I smelled alcohol on your breath when you came up, though I didn't know you had picked up some guy in the hotel bar (Sharon punctuates this with a wink).
ANDREA: (laughs and playfully slaps Sharon's arm) It wasn't like that. He looks like the "guy next door"
type. Not "wolfish" at all. He's a geologist. He studies rocks. It was fascinating...all the stories he had.
SHARON: Well just be careful...these days you never know who is sincere and who is not.
ANDREA: Oh, I'm sure he's sincere.
SHARON: How can you be sure?
ANDREA: Erm...he doesn't know who I am.
 

After the Symphony in a cab ride back to the hotel.
SHARON: Now tell me again....why doesn't he know who you are?
ANDREA: (giggle, hands in the air) He spends most of his time with his head buried in the mud (thinks) or
soil or mines...wherever he goes to dig up rocks. He doesn't really listen to anything but classical jazz.
Louie Armstrong and stuff.  He rarely listens to comtemporary “anything”. He didn't even know who the
Spice Girls were!
SHARON: (sticks out her tongue) Lucky him. (winks)
ANDREA: (Laughs out loud)
SHARON: So what's his name again?
ANDREA: Mark Beckett. Doesn't it just roll right off your tongue? Anyway, he's staying in the hotel for a
week as a guest lecturer for a local university. He also has some family close by. I thought that perhaps
I'd invite him to lunch with us tomorrow in our hotel suite. We have a nice little sitting area outside of the
bedrooms.  (thinks of their career and dreams) One day Sharon, we'll be in the penthouses!
SHARON: Yep (shakes head confidently) though who would have ever guessed that the Corrs from timy
Dundalk would be staying in a 2 bedroom suite as it is. Remember road trips with Dad and Mam and all of
us in one room with 2 beds.  (Sharon Laughs at the fond memory)
ANDREA:  (Laughs reminiscing) We would complain about how Jim gets the cot while we three girls had to sleep in one bed! (Pause) And now, we can afford a nice comfortable 2 bedroom suite with a sitting area even.  Mind boggling!
SHARON: (returns to the subject at hand) So you say he doesn't know who you are?
ANDREA: I told him I was in town on “business”. I told him my name was Andrea Corr, but I really didn't go into it much further.
SHARON: Hmmm....Oh…here we are.  (Sharon points to their hotel)
(The Cab stops in front of the Palacio Da Cruz, a new tastefully luxurious hotel. Andrea exits the cab 1st while Sharon pays the fare.)
SHARON: I'll never get over how expensive public transportation is in the States.
(Andrea and Sharon glide through the shiny brass revolving doors of their hotel. Heads turn. The lobby
occupants don't recognize the Corr sisters. They acknowledge the beauty and refinement of two young
women. Then a voice calls out, "ANDREA!". Both women turn. Two men are dodging amused bystanders making their way to the 2 beauties.)
ANDREA: Mark! Hi!
(Upon reaching their destination, Mark extends his hand and encloses Andrea's for a warm shake.)
MARK: I was hoping to catch you. The front desk had said you weren't answering your phone so I thought
I'd wait a bit longer.
(Andrea and Mark are beaming with delight and Sharon is amused by the scene. She takes a moment to study her sister's new interest. Dirty blond hair, 5'10", healthy build, nice face, very friendly smile. She grew confident that he was of no threat to her youngest sister. Once a big sister, always a big sister. The other man, though, looked a bit dodgy. Over confident. A little pushy. She decided that whoever this man was he was nothing like the 1st man.)
SHARON: (Clears her throat)
ANDREA: Oh! Heehee, Mark..this is my sister, Sharon.
MARK: Hi Sharon. It's a pleasure meeting you.
OTHER GUY: (in a leering sort of way takes Sharon's hand from Mark's handshake) Hello sister
Sharon...(he starts to bring her hands to his lips. Andrea gives Sharon an awkward look and Mark smiles apoligetically.)
SHARON: (deftly moves her hand away from his mouth and barely shakes his hand in a quick release)
Hello. (Sharon smiles but her eyes become cool and cautious)
MARK: Uh...Andrea, remember last night when I told you that my family lives in the next city? (Andrea
nods) This is my cousin, Neil. Erm....he came to visit me today. I'm actually heading back to Hooverton, with him tonight. But I wanted to see if we were still on for tomorrow
ANDREA: (nods enthusiastically) I'm looking forward to it.
MARK: (gets lost in Andrea's smile) Oh, and I also brought that book for you. The one about the rock
formations. But I left it in the car. I'll go get it.
NEIL: (with an arrogant grin) You go ahead, I'll keep the girls company.
ANDREA: (looks at Sharon apologetically) Uh...I'll go with you.
SHARON: (mouth hanging open) WHAT?!
ANDREA: No worries, sis. It's a “crowded” lobby, you're safe.
SHARON: (under her breath) YOU won't be when we get back to the room.
(Andrea and Sharon share a knowing smile before Andrea heads off after Mark)
SHARON: (sighs) Little sisters, you can't live with them and you can't shoot them.
NEIL: (LOL) That's funny
SHARON: (rolls her eyes) Erm well...
NEIL: How about a drink?
SHARON: Um...no thanks.
NEIL: The night is still young. What do you say we paint the town?
SHARON: No I can't.
NEIL: Why not?
SHARON: Because, I'm not feeling well all of a sudden.
NEIL: We could go to the bar and get you a ginger ale. That usually helps.
SHARON: No, I have some in my room.
NEIL: (with a grin) Well, we could go up to your...
SHARON: NO! (then speaks lower because people are noticing them) No that's not a good idea.
(long pause)
NEIL: Did I come on too strong?
SHARON: Well....(makes a face)...a little...
(A sudden surprise to Sharon, all of the confidence she sees in Neil comes crumbling down.)
NEIL: I knew it. (Slumps)
SHARON: It's okay...you just need to relax and be yourself.
NEIL: Would you go out with me then?
SHARON: What? No.
NEIL: (looks like a kicked puppy) I always seem to say the wrong things.
SHARON: (feels a bit uncomfortable) Look, Neil. You're just not my type. Please don't feel bad.
NEIL: I'm not your type? How do you know?
SHARON: Because...I know.
NEIL: You think I'm a loser. I get it.
SHARON: No....it's just...(Sharon's mind blanks)
NEIL: What are you going to tell me? That you're GAY or something?
SHARON: (pauses but then decides to go with it. She is too tired to think) Yes...that's it...I'm....gay.
NEIL: You are? (thinks) So you not being attracted to me has nothing to do with me personally…(He smiles and starts to feel better about himself) You dig chicks! (a few heads turn in their direction.  Sharon smiles in embarrassment to drawing their attention)
SHARON: Uh Neil...
NEIL: Aw...I'm sorry for coming on so strong before. I didn't know you were "playing for the OTHER
TEAM". Maybe you can give me a few pointers on how to "sweet talk" the babes.
(Sharon’s hand goes to her forehead.  She wishes she is in her suite already as more onlookers take notice.  She barely notices Andrea stopping beside her concerned.)
ANDREA: Hey, what's up? You okay? (she asks Sharon, gives NEIL a questioning look)
NEIL: Oh yea. Sharon has explained why she ain't into me and I am perfectly okay with it. (Neil gives a
“thumbs up” sign, Sharon stares heavenward)
ANDREA: (confused) She did?  (looks at Neil) You ARE?
NEIL: Yea...is Mark outside?
ANDREA: Yes .  We said goodbye and he's waiting for you.
NEIL: Hey Cool. It was nice meeting you. (as he's walking away fists raised) Sharon! It's totally cool to
meet you! You have my full support. You go, girlfriend!  GIRL POWER!
ANDREA: (baffled, watches him disappear) What on EARTH was he on about?
SHARON: (laughs a little. This is probably one of the wierdest encounters she's had in awhile) I haven't
the foggiest idea. Can we go up now?
ANDREA: Mark will be getting a ride here from Hooverton tomorrow for lunch.
SHARON: (as they reach the elevators) NOT from NEIL?!?!
ANDREA: (LOL, steps into the elevator) No...he's not sure but he's promised me Neil won't be coming with him, hahaha! It's amazing how they are so different.
SHARON: (giggles as the doors close) For you, I hope so.

In a large 2 Bedroom Suite, complete with the nicest of amenitities, a small kitchen, a nice patio
balcony...it's like a nice cushy "apartment". The morning sun is shining through the vertical blinds hanging from the patio door. Sharon Corr enters from one of the bedrooms and hobbles tiredly into the kitchen.
SHARON: Coffee. I need coffee.
CAROLINE: (Sitting in the front room, suddenly speaks up startling Sharon) If you want coffee you have
to make it yourself. I made tea. (Sharon grunts her disapproval). You're the only one who drinks coffee.
WE...like tea.
SHARON: (Sharon looks at the pot filled with tea already and grabs a mug from the cupboard, pours and then heads out to the front room in her silk PJs.) I drink tea too, though I need something stronger in the mornings. (She sits at the end of the couch and crosses her legs. She looks at Caroline who is sitting Indian style in front of the coffee table reading the newspaper while drinking tea and eating a blueberry scone.) You should have come with us last night to the symphony. It was faaaantastic!
CAROLINE: (looks up from the paper, hair in a ponytail, dressed in a Prince concert tee shirt, boxers and socks.)  Oh please, I was tired enough from traveling and checking in and all that. I would have fallen dead asleep.  I can't believe you two had the energy to go!
SHARON: They were free tickets from the radio station (shrugs). Besides, it's been so long since I've
been at an actual performance...for someone else. It was nice being part of the "audience" for a change.
Besides, here in America, no one knows who we are. It was weird...(draws Caroline's attention)...to be able
to just walk around and lead a normal life. (looks at Caroline's inquisitve look) Not that I don't appreciate
what we have. I adore our fans and think we've got the greatest in the world, but....
CAROLINE: (smiles) But it's just nice to be "dopey" Sharon Corr, the bossy sister who once told me that
women became NUNS because of a "calling from God"...
SHARON: That's true enough!
CAROLINE: (puts the paper down) But you pointed to the PHONE when you said it! I didn't answer the
bloody thing for 2 weeks! (Sharon giggles)
ANDREA: (Enters with spaghetti strap tank and boxer shorts, lifts herself over the back of the couch and swings her legs over to collapse on the unoccupied end. She yawns and then is sarcastic.) Do you think you guys can get any louder? I mean God forbid people to actually SLEEP in the mornings. I mean it's not like it's our DAY OFF or anything...(rolls eyes)
CAROLINE: (With a giggle) Aren't you sour when you've lost a few minutes of BEAUTY sleep? It's way
past the time for you to get up anyway. A few minutes more and I'd have recruited Sharon on a mission to
go in there and jump on your bed til you got up!
ANDREA: Ugh! Why must you pick on me?
SHARON: (playfully nudges Andrea with her foot) Because we're older. It's our sisterly right.
CAROLINE: (turns the page, never taking her eyes off it.) Yep, I get it from Sharon, Sharon
gets it from Jim...(smiling at Andrea now)...and LUCKY YOU, you get it from all 3 of us! Aren't you just
speeeeecial?
ANDREA: (arm drapes dramatically over her eyes.) Aiy....
SHARON: (looks around) Speaking of Jim...where is that rascal?
CAROLINE: He's up and gone! (stuffs rest of scone in her mouth)
SHARON: Where?
CAROLINE: (speaks with mouth full) Ee wed dow weg weg do doo sa whopppig
ANDREA: (head raises now in confusion and a laugh) He "weh weh weh weh" what?! (Andrea LOL. Caroline picks up mug and starts to drink fast to clear her mouth of a delicious but excessive amount of scone.)
SHARON: (tea mug in hand) Don't choke yourself. I'm not a very good drummer. (giggles from Andrea)
ANDREA: You suck on drums!
SHARON: (always ready to tease her siblings) Well you were never made for the violin, were
you?
ANDREA: (sticks her tongue out)I didn't sound so terrible when you tried to teach me last year.
SHARON: You sounded like a "SHAGGING cat". (Caroline starts to choke to keep from laughing. Andrea sits up straight and pats her sister on the back.)
ANDREA: OMG! Caro...(Caroline is hacking away)...I think I remember the Heimlick. (Andrea pulls her
sister up from the floor and enfolds her in a hold.)
SHARON: Andrea, that's not the Heimlick Manuever. I think that's some sort of wrestling SUBMISSION move.
CAROLINE: Oiy! (struggles free) Get off me. (She points) I swear you two are trying to kill me. (Then smiles. Andrea sits on the couch and lays back against Sharon and steals Sharon's mug of tea. Sharon's oblivious.)
SHARON: So where DID Jim go?
CAROLINE: (Takes a deep breath and sits on the couch arm facing her sisters) He went down with Greg to do some shopping. (Caroline then sinks down the arm to the couch cushion, legs up in front of her and she comfortably pulls the bodice of  her t-shirt over her nose.)
SHARON: Maybe that's what we should do.
ANDREA: But remember we have company for lunch.
CAROLINE: Not another interview! I thought today is our day off.
SHARON: It is! (She grabs her mug out Andrea's hands while getting up. Andrea falls back flat) Our
company is some GUY Andrea picked up in a BAR!
CAROLINE: (eyebrows raised, Andrea shakes her head) What is this now?
ANDREA: First of all...(sits up)...I didn't PICK HIM UP in a BAR! I met him at the hotel gift store. He...
CAROLINE: (Curious, interrupts Andrea's story) What was he buying?
ANDREA: What does it matter what he was buying?
CAROLINE: You can tell a lot about a person from what they're buying.
ANDREA: Oh please...
CAROLINE: Seriously!
ANDREA: I don't know, I can't remember!
CAROLINE: Can't? Or won't remember?
ANDREA: What the devil does that mean?
CAROLINE (With a wink) It means maybe you blocked it out on purpose.
ANDREA: That's RIDICULOUS!
CAROLINE: Well then...did you notice him when he went IN the shop?
ANDREA: Yea...
CAROLINE: Did he pick anything up immediately?
ANDREA: No...
CAROLINE: Then that means he was just in there looking around. See? He wasn't in any hurry to buy
anything. He was just lazing around outside and thought, "Hey, I think I'll just wander in here..."
ANDREA: You clod!
CAROLINE: Did he end up buying anything?
ANDREA: Milk...and cookies.
CAROLINE: (Face scrunched up) MILK?!? And coo...
ANDREA: Yes cookies! What's the big deal?
CAROLINE: Hmmmm.....
ANDREA: (In a challenging tone) I WAS buying soda, mint gum and CRAMP pills! What does that say?
SHARON: (re-entering the room with a hot mug) That says, you're a junk food junkie with bad breath who
might not be getting "lucky" anytime soon.
CAROLINE: Hah! See?
ANDREA: Unbelievable...(Sharon takes a seat in the middle of the couch)
SHARON: So, I'm really thinking we should do some shopping today.
CAROLINE: I actually want to check out this movie today. I saw it in the papers, it looks like a good one.
(She explains the movie plot to her sisters.)
SHARON: (makes a face) Well, YOU can see that. It sounds dead boring to me.
ANDREA: (Same face) Me too. It's a Madonna movie? Ugh! (rolls eyes) Been there, done that.
CAROLINE: Well I won’t be seeing it for her. Fine...We'll do a bit of shopping and split up a little bit later and meet back here for lunch. How's that?
SHARON: Sounds like a plan (Brings mug halfway to her mouth only to get it snagged by Andrea.)
ANDREA: Perfect! (Takes hearty sip.) Yuck! (Spits black liquid back INTO cup) Ew...that's COFFEE!
(Hands mug back)
SHARON: It WAS coffee...
ANDREA: (Rubs lips with the back of hand) That is FOUL! Ugh! I'm going to get ready. (Looks at Sharon)  And rinse thoroughly...blagh!
SHARON: (looks into her mug.) Well...I don't want this now. (Sets cup down and heads off into the
bedroom.
CAROLINE: (left sitting alone starts to read the paper again) Finally, peace at last! (Picks up Sharon's
mug brings it halfway to her mouth, catches her mistake before it's too late) Ew… “Andrea flavored” sludge!...(puts the mug down and picks up her mug instead and she drinks)
 

(While the girls are out shopping, Jim and Greg are downing a few pints at a local Irish bar. They're
sitting in a booth with shopping bags between them.)
GREG: We look like a couple of GIRLS here with these bags between us. Why couldn't we go back to the
room?
JIM: You try sneaking shopping bags past my three sisters. As soon as we walk in, they would have been
all OVER US! "Ooh what did you get?" or "Is there anything for me?" and "Jim, why did you get that
shirt. It's UGLY!" (sighs)
GREG: (laughs) Well, I don't know...I wouldn't mind them all over ME.
JIM: Heh! You'll be lucky if they leave skidmarks! All YOUR bags'd be gone and you wouldn't know what
hit ya. Believe me, I know. I grew up with the 3 "twisted sisters" (smiles).
GREG: (takes a swig of Guinness) I wish I did. You know, I used to have a wee crush on Sharon growing up.
JIM: (rolls eyes) I always thought you were a little "off". She's not a GIRL, she's my SISTER!
GREG: You just fail to see her the way I do.
JIM: (raises his glass in gratefully) And that's a good thing because it would be ILLEGAL! Not to
forget “vomit inducing”.
GREG: Aw! You know she's beautiful!
JIM: (resolute) Yea! No need to remind me. (pauses) I had plenty reminders of that watching all 3 grow
up. I'd never admit it to them, but there were a few times I was worried. You should have seen some of the guys they brought home, heh! I was protective, though I didn’t say much. You don't know how many times I had to remind myself that they could take care of themselves.
GREG: They are Irish girls. (raises glass in salute)
JIM: That they are. (gives Greg a pointed look) And I wouldn't start with Sharon if I were you. She's got
a mean “right hook”, that one.
GREG: You'd think it was Caroline who was the toughest, being the drummer and all.
JIM: (surprised) Caro's the more laid back one. Though, if riled up will give no thoughts to throwing you
fully over her shoulder "Bruce Lee Style".
GREG: And Andrea?
JIM: (drinks) A "kicker". (nods) She's got a "shin kick" that will leave you hobbling for a week!
GREG: (indredulous) You're joking!
Jim: (smiles) Try it and see. (Greg laughs and Jim jokes) You've been in America too long. The women
around here are more mild tempered maybe.
GREG: I don't know about that. (rubs his cheek) I still seem to get slapped every now and then.
JIM: So you've been out here, how long? 5 years?
GREG: Try SEVEN.
JIM: (raises his glass) And you still have you IRISH accent.
GREG: I wouldn't lose it! American "birds" love it.
(Both laugh. Greg is distracted by the inward swing of the front door.)
GREG: Well, I must say "Little Caz" isn't so "little" anymore.
JIM: Eh? (Then turns in the direction of where several men have also turned to look. Jim sees Greg's
intense focus and laughs.) Stay clear of her "shoulder", mate.
CAROLINE: Hah! You'd think this city was big enough, I wouldn't see you until later, brother dear. (She
throws her arm around Jim's shoulder and shakes him.)
GREG: (clears throat) And where's my hug?
CAROLINE: (pics up Jim's glass and drinks) Please, I've JUST eaten. (smiles jokingly at Greg)
GREG: Now why do you have to go and break my heart there, Caroline? You know how much you make me smile. (He beams his most winning smile at Caroline while Jim knowingly shakes his head.)
CAROLINE: I know how much anything in a SKIRT makes you smile now, Greg. I wasn't born yesterday.
(Caroline smiles)
GREG: (gives her a head to toe look) Oh, I know that quite well, Caroline. My, you sure have grown into
raving beauty.
CAROLINE: (laughs) Mammy warned me about men like you.
GREG: Ah, I'm a "threat", eh? I'll take that as a compliment.
JIM: Oiy (looks at both of them)! If you're going to chat my sister up, could you do it someplace else? I'm
trying to enjoy a PINT here!
CAROLINE: (Elbows Jim, then looks at Greg) I said “Mam warned me” about men like you, but so far I
don't see anything that interests me NOR anything that I can't handle. (nods for confirmation)
GREG: So is that a "maybe" and a "step in the right direction"? (wiggles eyebrows)
CAROLINE: That was a "NO" and a "boot to your ass". (smiles triumphantly)
GREG: (under his breath to Jim) Hey...they can take care of themselves.
JIM: (snickers and reaches for his glass only to realize it's gone. He turns and sees Caroline chugging
away to the last drop.) Hey! (shakes his head and grabs the empty glass from her hand) What ARE you
doing here and where are "tweedle dee and dum"? (Greg chuckles)
CAROLINE: (Tries to hide her smile mischeivously) They are out shopping and I came to use the toilet. We just split up. They're heading back and I'm going to see a film. (Looks around) Where is the toilet?
GREG: Back there. (Caroline smiles and heads off) A "tough sale" that one.
JIM: You crashed and burned, my friend. (Jim does a poor job of diguising his brotherly pride) Yep...they can take care of themselves. (Time passes on as Jim is thinking of his sisters and their past together. They've always been a tight knit family and all the teasing that passes between the four siblings is just that. Teasing.)
CAROLINE: (returns) Well...what are you guys up to now?
GREG: We don't know yet. Are you off then? (Greg fains disappointment)
CAROLINE: (laughing) That I am. (points to Jim's empty glass) Unless you want to buy me another, Jim?
(smiles at Jim)
JIM: Get lost! (playfully grabs her arm and pushes her away but then suddenly pulls her back. Jim looks her importantly in the eyes) Be careful, eh?
CAROLINE: (Surprised, but then is warmed by the love and concern she sees in her brother's eyes. She smiles and pats him on the head.) You know I will be. (A moment of silent understanding is
shared. She starts to go and then turns.) Oh, and do the American women in this town  a favor and keep this guy on a proper leash! (She points to Greg and laughs. All eyes follow her out.)
GREG: (Sarcastically laughs) HA HA!
JIM: (Laughs as he watches her disappear. Then the phone in his pocket starts to ring.) Hello?....Oh,
hey.....here?....(Greg is attentively watching)....What time?....She'll be surprised that's for sure.....(Jim
looks at Greg)...Yeah, we'll be there.....No I promise I won't say a thing. See you then. (Jim hangs up.)
GREG: (curiously) Who was that?
JIM: Erm. Sharon's new "thing".
GREG: (confused) "Thing"?
JIM: (LOL) Yea. During our last video shoot Sharon met this guy and they hit it off. It's sort of still in
the early stages so no one is sure WHAT they are exactly...INCLUDING them.
GREG: (a little disappoionted) Oh, so Sharon's got a "bloke"...(smiles) The "competition".
JIM: Pff...There is no competition. (laughs at Greg) I think Sharon really likes him but isn't sure how he
feels. And Gavin, that's his name, is a pretty nice guy. He's just arriving in. His plane is landing in a few
hours. He wants to surprise her.
GREG: Damn! Sounds like a nice bloke.
JIM: C'mon, let's bring these packages up to the room, but remember. Not a word to Sharon.
GREG: (laughs at himself) I'm having a hard enough time getting to first base with your sisters, let alone
have a "one on one" conversation with them!
JIM: (As they're wrestling with their parsels out the front door) A CONVERSATION better be the only
"one on one" thing you want with them, or I'll have to take a “boot to your ass” myself!
GREG: (Pats his good friend on the back when they are outside.) Aye Jim! You're such the BIG BROTHER!
 

(Back in the hotel room Sharon is helping Andrea with lunch.)
SHARON: (in the kitchen opens the take out containers to inspect the food) We bought soooo much food! How much does YOUR geologist eat?
ANDREA: (sets the table) Do you think we should set the table for Jim and Greg? (Looks up to see
Sharon eating from one of the cartons) Hey! I bought extra because I wasn't sure who was joining us. Caroline, certainly, can eat one of those cartons whole!
SHARON: Aye, she's got a healthy appetite, our sister. I still can't quite figure where she puts it! She's
the only woman I know that can "make love" to a PASTRY CART and still have room for more.
ANDREA: (pats belly) Fast metabolism. It's in the genes.
SHARON: Yea, I suppose.
ANDREA: (laughs) Except for YOU! There's nothing special about YOUR metabolism. Your diet secret is that little "box of death" sitting on the coffee table. A "pack a day" is how Sharon Corr keeps fit! (giggles)
SHARON: (slowly smiles) Hmmmm....a fag sounds good right about now. (Sharon spots Andrea rolling her eyes.) What? I am trying to cut down. (Sharon picks up her cigarette pack and collapses on the couch.)
ANDREA: (Sits on the back of the sofa) Slip me one.
SHARON: (Looks around the floor for her lighter and passes pack to Andrea absently, then remembers that Andrea doesn't smoke.) Hey, get away!
ANDREA: (giggles. She didn't want one anyway. She sees Sharon's lighter on the dining table) You know it really is a nasty habit. (Andrea pockets the lighter.)
SHARON: (lifts sofa cushions trying to find her lighter) Hmmm...I could have sworn it was here somewhere.
ANDREA: Sharon, come help me with lunch.
SHARON: Let me just have one fag. (She kneels on the sofa looks behind it. When she doesn't see her
lighter, she holds the cigarette and sighs in frustration).
ANDREA: Come on, just leave it alone.
SHARON: (pays no attention to Andrea’s remark) Do we have any matches?
ANDREA: NO. (tries to change the subject) I wonder when Caroline's movie will be over? She should be in the middle of it, I think. Wait till she sees all the food we’ve got! Hah! (looks at Sharon who has a pensive look)
SHARON: The stove! (she jumps over the back of the sofa and disappears into the kitchen, cigarette in hand)
ANDREA: (rolls her eyes, then says under her breath) Smarty pants! I hope you SINGE your eyebrows off! Sharon Corr does the DAVID BOWIE look. (Sharon emerges from the kitchen with lit cigarette in hand and lets out a puff of smoke.) OUTSIDE PLEASE!
(Sharon sticks out her tongue and steps out on the balcony. At that moment the front door opens and Jim and Greg walk in carrying packages.)
ANDREA: Ooh! (Drops everything) What did you guys get? Anything for me Jim?(peeps  in Jim's
bags and giggles) Ew...(contorts face into a disgusted frown) Jim! This will look TERRIBLE on you!
JIM: (looks at Greg with "I told you so" look and Greg laughs.) Where's Sharon?
ANDREA: Outside "polluting the Earth" and damaging her lungs. (Jim glances at Sharon preoccupied with
her cigarete.)
JIM: Cool...listen...
GREG: What is that I smell? Food?
ANDREA: (Turns away from Jim) Hey, get away from that. That's for COMPANY.
GREG: And what do "I" look like? (Holds Chicken leg up in the air.)
ANDREA: (hands on hip, amused grin) Do you want an HONEST answer?
GREG: Ooh a fiesty one! (Greg brings the food closer only to hold it back up in the air when Andrea
reaches for it.) Hey, Jim, this is fun...OW! (Andrea catches the food Greg has dropped and pats him on theback as he bends to rub his shin.)
ANDREA: I could have kicked you a lot harder, boyo.
GREG: (still rubbing) Do you have a "club foot" or what?
JIM: (comes out from one of the bedrooms) C'mon Greg, we gotta go.
ANDREA: You aren't staying for lunch?
JIM: Save us some food, we’ll be a bit late. We need to pick up...(the balcony door opens and
Sharon enters)...some ale.
ANDREA: (confused) We have ale.
JIM: (looks from Sharon to Andrea) We need more.
SHARON: Hello. (sees Jim put his leather jacket on) Where are you off to?
JIM: We'll be back.
GREG: (winks at Sharon) Miss me while I'm gone!
SHARON: (sarcastic) Pfft. Yeah, I'll be PINING away.
GREG: I knew you wanted me. (Door closes)
SHARON: (Bursts out laughing) He's something else isn't he?
ANDREA: He sure is. (considering look) He's not bad looking. He's actually quite cute, "lookswise". (looks
at Sharon) You should go for him maybe. (giggles)
SHARON: No thanks...I've got my own “romance” kindling, thank you.
ANDREA: Ah yes...the “barrister”. (Sharon sits on the sofa and peeps through the bags left by the guys) What's going on with him? (Andrea sits on the loveseat to the side of her.
SHARON: Oh, I don't know. I really REALLY like him. AND I think he likes me too. It's just a little complicated at the moment.
ANDREA: How?
SHARON: Well, it's hard enough to START a relationship without putting several thousand miles in
between.  BUT, it’s an issue I intend to clarify once we get back to Ireland.
ANDREA: Well at least you've found someone.
SHARON: Well before I met Gavin, I had just ended a relationship.  With a budding music career in the works, I need to give more thought to things I do now.  (Sharon pulls a shirt from the bag and holds it open with a funny face) Why did Jim get THIS? It's HIDEOUS!
ANDREA: (nods in agreement and laughs) What would he do without us, Sharon? Quick!  Throw it off the balcony.
SHARON: (rolls shirt up and stuffs it in the bag while shaking her head in disapproval) So we still have
time yet. Your ROCK Scientist will be here in an hour or so? (Picks up remote and turns TV on. She flips
the channels looking for something good.) Here we go. This is one of my favorites.
ANDREA: (glances at the screen) Ooh, "Pretty Woman". It's just started. I love Julia Roberts in this one.
(Andrea lifts her legs and spreads out on the loveseat and they both watch the movie in silence.)
 

(About an hour later Sharon is still sitting on the couch with a cup of tea in hand, legs comfortably under her, engrossed in the movie. Andrea had gotten up some time ago to get ready and finish getting things set for lunch. She enters the sitting room and addresses Sharon.)
ANDREA: (stops behind couch, looks from Sharon to the TV) He'll be here any minute, Sharon. Hadn't you better get ready?
SHARON: (eyes never leaving the TV): What for? He's YOUR "pebble scientist".
ANDREA: He's a GEOLOGIST. Don't call him that when he's here, okay?
SHARON: (still engrossed) Oh give me some credit, will you? I'm SARCASTIC, not rude.
ANDREA: (moves to the side of the couch) Still you should make a good impression.
SHARON: (shocked, turns to Andrea) I make a fabulous 1st impression.
ANDREA: Oh come on and straighten up a little.
SHARON: (jokes) Are you insulting me?
ANDREA: (hands on hips) No, I'm trying to get you to run a brush through your hair!
SHARON: (hand goes up to head) My hair?  What's wrong with it.
ANDREA: Sharon, you need to at least put your shoes back on!  And maybe tidy up around here.
SHARON: (teases) I don't have to do anything except look good on stage and play the violin. (sticks out tongue playfully).
ANDREA: (rolls eyes) Teh! (kneels in front of Sharon, purposely blocking the TV with a sad puppy dog expression) Pleeeeeeease?
SHARON: (rolls eyes and gets up) Alright! Gah, just STOP with the EYES! (Sharon collects empty dishes and tidies up the sitting area and then jogs into the bedroom)
ANDREA: (laughs and says to herself) The "eyes" work EVERY time. (She sits and watches the movie. Sharon comes out a bit later looking minimally different, refreshed yet just as beautiful as before.) See, now doesn't that feel better?  You LOOK better.
SHARON: I look better?!? (pops mouth open at the jibe and ruffles the top of Andrea's hair in return)
ANDREA: (immediately straightens hair) HEY!
(There's a knock at the door.)
ANDREA: (Excited) Ooh, he's here. (Walks over to the door and turns back to give Sharon a hand to "be cool". Sharon rolls her eyes and shakes her head smiling.  Andrea opens the door.) Hi!
In the open doorway, Mark is standing there with a pretty red haired woman.
MARK: (Steps in) Hi, Andrea. This is my cousin, Alana. Alana, this is Andrea Corr.
ALANA: Hi. (smiles and shakes Andrea's hand)
ANDREA: (to Mark) Cousin? (to Alana) Are you Neil's sister then?
ALANA: (laughs) NO, thank GOD! (Everyone laughs) No, no...just another cousin. Our mothers are sisters.
ANDREA: Oh (smiles), well then please come in.
ALANA: WOW, nice place you have here. (Sees Sharon sitting on the couch and smiles sweetly)
ANDREA: Oh, this is my sister, Sharon. Sharon, Mark's cousin Alana.
SHARON: Hello, it's nice to meet you. (shakes Alana's hand, then turns to Mark and greets him) It's good to see you again Mark. I hope you're HUNGRY. (Everyone laughs) So have a seat, please. (Instead of
turning the TV off she minimizes the volume.)
MARK: WOW, what a view you must have from up here. (Sharon and Alana take a seat)
ANDREA: Would you like to see the balcony? (flashes her most charming smile)
MARK: Okay.
Andrea looks at the other two who are sitting on the couch and slides open the balcony door.
MARK: (once they are outside) It's a nice day today. Actually warmer than I expected. (Turns to Andrea)  I hope you don't mind that I invited my cousin over. She just moved out here and she doesn't know anybody.
ANDREA: Aw...it's an adjustment settling in someplace different. (Andrea joins him at the railing. both look over the side and take a few moments to enjoy the fresh air.)
MARK: She had to be somewhere different right now. She's gone though a lot recently.
ANDREA: Oh? She seems rather easy going. Like she could adapt to anything.
MARK: If only we all could.
Moments pass by as they share a moment of amicable silence.
ANDREA: She's quite attractive. You have a handsome family.
MARK: (smiles) So do you. (Looks back into the suite then back to Andrea seriously) Andrea.....is your sister dating anyone at the moment?
ANDREA: (perplexed at the turn of the discussion, thinks of Gavin and Sharon's undecided relationship). Not at the moment.
MARK: (relieved) Oh good.
ANDREA: (becomes alarmed, hands on hips) Is it?
MARK: (oblivious to a suddenly bothered Andrea) Oh yea, I wouldn't want to feel like I was stepping on anyone's toes here.
ANDREA: What?
Andrea's heart begins to sink a little as she thinks of the few boys she had crushes on, when she was younger, only to find out that they fancied one of her sisters instead.  Of course she could never blame her sisters.  They were always beautiful in her eyes, but it never made the heart break easier.
MARK: Well, Neil told me what happened last night. You don't have to keep it secret anymore.
ANDREA: (shakes head suddenly confused) What secret?
MARK: (waits a moment) That your sister is gay.
Andrea rasied her eyebrows blinking in silence for several seconds.  What is this about Sharon being gay?  Where did he get that absurd notion?  Sharon is not gay.
ANDREA: (hesitantly, tests the thought out) Gay.
MARK: That's what she told Neil.
Andrea bites back a laugh.  Sharon told Neil she was gay?  No wonder he was acting funny when he left.  All that fist pumping and thumb raising.  She looked back into the suite and saw Alana laugh at something Sharon said.
ANDREA: Hmmmm, well she doesn't ordinarily TELL people that.
MARK: Personally, I think that's great.
ANDREA: You do?
MARK: Yes. Neil and I were discussing it on the ride home last night and thought that this is just what
Alana needs right now. I mean, when she moved here after she ended her relationship with Alexia...
ANDREA: (stops smiling and looks from Mark to the sitting room then back to Mark again) Uh, wait a minute, Alana is gay?
MARK: Yep. Isn't that cool? And when we told her about Sharon, she was a little hesitant at first but
after much convincing, why not? I mean maybe she and Sharon will hit it off.
ANDREA: (more bewildered blinking at Mark, then smiles politely) Um…you're trying to matchmake your cousin and my sister? (Turns to warn Sharon, but stops when Mark taps her)
MARK: You aren't mad are you?
ANDREA: No.  Of course, I'm NOT mad, I'm just....(pauses)...surprised at the turn of events.  We should go in, I've got to check on the food. (smiles)
(Without waiting for Mark's reply Andrea slides the glass door open to hear Sharon and Alana laughing and smoking.)
MARK: See? (wiggles eyebrows) They're "hitting it off". (Then walks to the loveseat and sits down.)
ANDREA: (scratches forehead) Erm...what are you guys laughing about?
SHARON: (finally notices Andrea and jokes) QUICK! Put the cigarette out, hahaha. You guys were using
the balcony! (Turns around to look at Andrea and wiggles her eyebrows and says low enough for only Andrea to understand.) Interesting conversation? (Makes silly kissing gestures, then laughs)
ANDREA:  (looks at her with a smirk.) Oh you have NO idea.

Andrea looks at three people she shares the room with. Mark, handsome and interesting...innocent in so many ways.  He looked so pleased that his cousin is meeting new people, Sharon especially.  She looks at Alana, the attractive red head, who seems to be having a marvelous time. She's already showing interest in Sharon.  Funny, she'd never seen another woman flirt with her sister, who was absolutely oblivious to it, before.  Andrea bites the inside of her bottom lip nervously, then sticks her thumb in her mouth to try and relax.  Should she tell Mark that Sharon lied?  He and Neil convinced their poor cousin to come all the way over here because they thought Sharon was gay. Would he be upset? If Andrea involuntarily affected by this little fib, she'd find it quite amusing. Funny, even, that Sharon had gotten herself into this predicament. My the trouble that Sharon could get into.

A half hour later Andrea is still wondering what was said between Sharon and Alana when she and Mark were on the balcony. All eyes, except hers are glued to the TV, so she takes the opportunity to study Alana and her sister.  Andrea frowns noticing that Alana has moved closer to Sharon, her eyes admiring Sharon's profile.  At that moment Sharon turns but only smiles which had Andrea gulping hard.  Suddenly a plan pops into her head.

ANDREA: (to Mark) Would you excuse me for a minute? I'll be right back.(Mark nods and smiles. walks to one of the bedrooms and waits a few minutes and then calls out.) SHARON...(pokes her head out with easy and asks.) Can you come here for a minute?
SHARON: (to the guests) Excuse me...(She stands and while walking to the bedrooms gives Andrea a quizzical look) What's up, we're getting to the good parts in the movie now.
ANDREA: Forget about the movie! What did you and Alana talk about when Mark and I were out on the balcony?
SHARON: (after a confused pause) We talked about the weather. She just moved out here and doesn't know anyone....
ANDREA: Did she say anything…PERSONAL?
SHARON: (Surprised) NO! Nor did I! We're strangers for goodness sake, though she seems quite nice. What's with the quest-...(then has a revelation)....Oh! (points to Andrea. Andrea wonders what Sharon will say next.)  You want to know if Mark talked about his feelings for you....
ANDREA: No...(shakes head)
SHARON: (quickly)...He fancies you.
ANDREA: Sharon, she's...(distracted pause)...he does? He said that? (smiles)
SHARON: He said you are "the coolest woman he's ever met". (giggles) OBVIOUSLY he doesn't get around much.
ANDREA: (Excited) Aww.....
SHARON: So don't keep him waiting! Haha!
Sharon pulls Andrea out the door just as Andrea remembers why she wanted to talk to Sharon in the 1st place.
ANDREA: Oh my god! Sharon, you don't know!  (But Sharon had taken her seat again and hadn't heard Andrea.)
MARK: (To Andrea) Come sit here.
Andrea walks over and takes seat next to Mark.  Now how will she warn her sister of her new friend's intentions?  Moments pass by, Mark and Sharon are watching the movie, Alana is watching Sharon and Andrea is watching Alana.
ALANA: You know, I had forgotten how good this movie really is.
SHARON: Yes, I agree! (shakes her head) Richard Gere just doesn't do it for me, though. He's not my
type.
ANDREA: (tenses while she spies the smile on Alana's lips) Uh...Sharon....
ALANA: But Julia Roberts is pretty though.
SHARON: She's GORGEOUS!
ANDREA: (body tenses as she tries to stiffle a giggle) Sharon?
SHARON: (enviously jokes and points to the TV) I want those BREASTS!
ANDREA: SHARON! (laughs)
SHARON: (Clueless) WHAT?!
ANDREA: Erm...(tries to contain her laughter at her sister's unknown blunders)..I think we need drink refills. Can you help me in the kitchen? (Turns to Alana and Mark) Would you like more to drink. (Sharon rises and takes Mark and Alana's cups).
MARK: Yes please.
ANDREA: Alana? (as she's walking to the kitchen, Sharon following)
ALANA: I'll have coffee if you've got it!
SHARON: (stops and innocently smiles) Ooh! A Coffee drinker. Now there's a woman after my own heart. (Alana beams thinking that Sharon is flirting with her.)
ANDREA: Oh God! (bursts out laughing, Andrea hooks Sharon's arm and pulls her into the kitchen before another misleading remark leaves her sister's mouth.)
Once in the kitchen, Andrea takes the dishes from Sharon and puts them in the sink and starts to laugh hard again. Sharon who doesn't know what is going on laughs a little too because her sister's laughter is so contagious.
SHARON: What's so funny? (laughs a little harder because Andrea can't seem to breathe for the laughing.) What!?
ANDREA: You really have no idea! (laugh)...oh...(laugh)...I have to ask...
SHARON: Yeeeees?
ANDREA: How do you feel about Gavin?
SHARON: (bewildered) I told you how I feel about him. What's that have to do with anything?
ANDREA: Tell me again...do you really like him? (laugh)
SHARON: Yeah....
ANDREA: (nose twiches in laughter) Do you LOVE him?
SHARON: YES!! What has that to do with anything!
ANDREA: So you're not GAY?
SHARON: What? (laughs at the thought) Of course not. What are you on about?
ANDREA: (laughs again) But you told Neil you were gay.
SHARON: (laughs) He INSINUATED I was gay because I didn't invite him up to my room. I was too tired to deal with him so I agreed. (shrugs)
Both girls are laughing now though Sharon's still doesn't know why.
ANDREA: He told Alana you were gay.
SHARON: Yeah?
ANDREA: Well, she's gay and she's here for YOU!
Andrea keels over in laughter while Sharon suddenly stops, mouth gaping open.
SHARON: She's WHAT? (Looks out toward the family room. Their guests are continuing with the movie undisturbed.) Here for ME?
ANDREA: (laughter winds down before she teases) Yep.  I can see the papers now, pleasing several of your adoring female fans, "Sharon Corr is GAY!" (giggles)
SHARON: (giggles a bit at the thought) HeehWell, there's nothing wrong with being gay. I fully support the sexual preferences of others.
ANDREA: As do I! It only matters that people be happy, whoever they choose to love.
SHARON: Yes. Including Alana. (looks distressed at the topic at hand) I suppose I should tell her...(looks
at Andrea)...that I lied.
ANDREA: I'm really surprised at you. You look down on dishonesty.
SHARON: (shrugs) I didn't think I'd ever SEE Neil again. (Andrea gives her a sympathetic smile.)
ANDREA: Do what you should have done from the beginning. Tell the TRUTH.
SHARON: (on a sigh)  Yes, I'd better..
Both sisters enter the sitting room to find that Mark is not there.
ANDREA: Where's Mark?
ALANA: He went down to the shop to pick up something. He said he'd be back shortly.
SHARON: Um...Andrea why don't you go down with him?
ANDREA: (gives Sharon a knowing smile) Okay. I'll be back. (Gives Sharon an encouraging smile and closes the front door.)
SHARON: (after a moment, takes a seat next to Alana) Alana...there's something we should get out in the open.
ALANA: (nods) I know all about it.
SHARON: (taken aback, wondering if Alana had heard the conversation between herself and Andrea) You do?
ALANA: It's okay, Sharon.
SHARON: It is?
ALANA: Yes, you don't have to hide it. Neil told me you are gay. I was a bit hesitant before coming but now, I am really glad I came. I find you very attractive. (Takes Sharon's hands in hers)
SHARON: Uh....
ALANA: And I REALLY like you...and I feel that you like me too.
Alana moves closer to Sharon making Sharon lean back.  The crouch was suddenly too crowded for comfort for Sharon.
SHARON: I like you too, b….
ALANA: Normally  I put very little trust in Neil's opinions or ideas. He's a bit much at times, hehe.
SHARON: Yeah, Neil is.
ALANA: ...but I know he sincerely cares for me. I know he and Mark have been worrying about me lately.
I just recently broke up with my girlfriend...or rather, she broke up with me…for a MAN!
SHARON: Oh….that's not easy, I imagine.
ALANA: NO!  It's the ultimate betrayal! (frustrated sigh) and I've just been so upset lately. I haven't slept, I haven't eaten. I just don't think I can handle another disappointment and rejection.
SHARON: Oh. (looks down, this wasn't going to be as easy as she thought.)
ALANA: But now I've met you and I feel like we could become very, VERY close. (Alana moves an inch closer, Sharon moves an inch farther.)
SHARON: Um...Alana.
ALANA: You are very beautiful, Sharon.
SHARON: (eyes open wide) Alana...Alana, we can't.
Alana places her hands on Sharon's thighs stopping Sharon's movement.  Instead of gaining more distance Sharon's back hits the seat cusion.
ALANA: I know you'll only be here for a short while longer, but I thought maybe we could get to"know" each other better.  Enjoy each other's company.
SHARON: I...I'm ("straight, say it", she thinks. Sharon looks into Alana's eyes and feels Alana's hope and fancy.)...SEEING someone already.
ALANA: Oh? (is now almost on top of Sharon)
The front door opens.
SHARON: (looks at the entrance) DARLING!
Alana straightens herself to find a young woman standing in the entrance with a shocked, horrified expression on her young face.  Her hand still holding the key in the door.)
ALANA: (quickly backs off of Sharon) Oh my!  I had no idea.
SHARON: (relieved) It's okay, Alana. (walks over to the suite entrance and throws an arm around the
shoulders of their new arrival) Alana, this is Caroline...my "girlfriend".
Caroline, who was just before paralyzed in shock to walk in on a woman HOVERING over her sister on the couch, is now completely confused.
CAROLINE: Girlfriend?
SHARON: I know we weren't announcing it yet. (Gives Caroline pointed look, turns to Alana who has now gotten off the couch) Caroline and I have been seeing each other in secret for months.
Caroline begins to take the key out of the lock until she hears her sister's lie.  What?!?!  She freezes frowning at Sharon.
ALANA: Oh...I feel so embarrassed.
SHARON: Don't, you had no way of knowing. Besides after all you've been through, I understand.
CAROLINE: (under her breath) I wish "I" understood. (inwardly gasps as Sharon squeezes her tighter. An obvious sign to "shut up".)
ALANA: (feels a little less embarrassed, then smiles, then giggles) Well it was a mystery to me that you were single.  (looks at Caroline) Now I know you aren't. (walks over to shake Caroline's hand) Caroline, you are a lucky woman.
CAROLINE: (gives Alana an absent shake, still puzzled) Erm...thank you (nods, then frowns a bit. Then all three women are distracted by the ruckus outside the door. Andrea and Mark burst in.)
ANDREA: I beat you! Hah! (takes a breath) CAROLINE! You're here! So have you all been introduced?
ALANA: Yes. (Then to Mark) Mark, this is Sharon's girlfriend, Caroline.
ANDREA: (shocked) Girlfriend?!? (Mark crosses over to Alana who pats his shoulder reassuring him she's okay.)
CAROLINE: (paraphrases Sharon's explanation) We weren't telling anyone. (shrugs at Andrea when no one else is looking. Andrea shakes her head at Sharon).
SHARON: Uh, does anyone else want coffee? (escapes to the kitchen, Andrea follows in a subtle chase.)
CAROLINE: (left awkwardly with two strangers) Uh...you must be "Mr. Milk & Cookies". (is suddenly grasped by Andrea)
ANDREA: Excuse us, hehe. (Pulls Caroline off to the kitchen to confront Sharon.)

Sharon fiddles with the coffee machine while thinking about the latest turn of events. What was she doing? She chuckles to herself shaking her head.   Sharon immediately senses the moment her sisters enter the room.
ANDREA: (releases Caroline's arm, places hands on hips) Are you MAD?!
Andrea looks from one sister to another waiting a reply.  Caroline crosses her arms and waits as well calmly and patiently.
SHARON: (resigned sigh) I know. (finally turns to face her sisters) I panicked. She tried to kiss me!
ANDREA: Really?!?! (looks at Caroline, wide eyed) But why get Caroline mixed up in this? "Girlfriends"?
SHARON: I tried to tell Alana, but she was looking at me so...oh god...pathetically. She wanted comfort, and companionship. She was very persistant. She even mentioned a "fling", heh! (sees Andrea's mouth drop while Caroline bows her head to hide a smile)  Did you know her ex lover turned STRAIGHT on her?  Somehow telling her I was straight didn't seem like the right thing to do!  I thought it would make things worse.  So I embellished a little and told her I was seeing someone and then Caroline walked in. (She looks at Caroline and Andrea looking at each other. Then smiles.) MEN....I can handle!  LONELY LESBIANS are something all together different (laughs)!
Caroline has been watching the interaction between her younger and older sisters calmly  She tries to suppress the laughter by turning her head but fails.
CAROLINE: (throws hands up jokingly)  Great! (turns to Andrea and points casually at Sharon) They'll be no LIVING with her now that she knows that WOMEN want her too!
ANDREA: (smiles and rolls her eyes, lets out a sigh.) So now what?
SHARON: (looks at Caroline) I made a mistake. I'm sorry.
CAROLINE: (shakes her head and ponders) Well, I guess you can't go out there now and say, "Hah, I lied! I like BLOKES and this is my SISTER!"
ANDREA: They would think we all escaped from a lunatic asylum. Mark would probably not want to speak to me.
CAROLINE: Do you REALLY like him?
ANDREA: (notices the quizical tone in Caroline's question and is defensive) Why? Yes...I like him. (crosses arms)
CAROLINE: (notices she's alarmed Andrea and decides to just be truthful) He looks like that "kid" on the telly the other morning.
ANDREA: What kid?
SHARON: (busts out laughing as realization dawns) "Opie" from the Andy Griffith Show? (continues to laugh.)
CAROLINE: Yea...him (laughs along)! Ron Howard when he was really little.
ANDREA: Oh Gaawd! He does not!
SHARON: He does! OH NO!!!
CAROLINE: Besides, he doesn't look like your type. "Milk and cookies"....(giggles)
The room is filled with childish giggles. Andrea rolls her eyes. Suddenly Mark comes in from the living room.  The giggles stop.
MARK: Hi (smiles). Erm...maybe we should take a raincheck on lunch. I think Alana feels guilty.
Caroline sees Andrea's look of surprise then mild disapointment and Sharon's look of guilt and remorse. She hates to see her sisters even the slightest bit unhappy.
CAROLINE: No, don't go. (Looks around the kitchen and ignores her sisters' looks of surprise) From the smell of it, we have a lot of good food just waiting to be eaten. (looks at Andrea) We'd really like for you to stay and join us for lunch.
Andrea’s heart warms by Caroline's attempt to make things better.  No matter where Andrea was she knew that Caroline looked out for her and she was always very grateful for that. She always loved her sisters equally but differently as well. She could always count on Caroline for support and encouragement and on Sharon for strength and guidance. She turned to Mark..
ANDREA: Please stay.
SHARON: Yes please. I've just made a full pot of coffee.
MARK: (brightens) Alright. (Smiles)
CAROLINE: (extends her hand) I'm Caroline, by the way. We weren't properly introduced.
MARK: (shakes hand) Hi! I'm Mark. (then looks to Sharon) I'm happy for you both. (smiles) Really. Sharon's a fantastic woman.
CAROLINE: (gives Sharon a knowing look.) Oh, she's "incredible" alright. One of a kind!
Andrea giggles at the inside joke.
MARK: I'll go tell Alana. (leaves)
SHARON: (Finishes setting up the tray and then walks over to Andrea.) I'm sorry, Andy Pands. Really. I just didn't want to hurt anyone and I wasn't thinking clearly.
ANDREA: (covers her sister's hand with her own and then gives it a loving squeeze) Hehe, it's okay. What a lot of trouble we've got ourselves into. I'm reminded of being 5 years old again and how we used to band together to plot ways to get Jim back for his mischievous pranks on us.
CAROLINE: (walks over and shakes Sharon jokingly then hugs her from behind and rests her chin on Sharon's shoulder) But as ALWAYS, it was Sharon's devious idea and we were pulled in as her helpful pawns to carry out her plan. (Winks at Sharon as Sharon lets out a loud laugh!) YOU OWE ME for this one, Sharon Helga Corr!
Mark walks in bringing their attention to the door, but neither of them moves from their sisterly,
comfortable positions.
MARK: Alana and I would love to stay, thanks.
ANDREA: (moves first and toward Mark) Fantastic!
SHARON: (moves next) I'll get the coffee.
Caroline follows Mark and Andrea out the door.
MARK: (Smiles and motions to Caroline) You know, you two look so much alike. If I didn't know any better I would think you and Sharon were related.
ANDREA: (giggles) Now that IS funny!
CAROLINE: (turns back to look at Sharon, who is following with the coffee tray. Sharon looks at Caroline and twists her mouth attempting to feign surprise.) Eh, we get that A Lot! (Then Caroline and Sharon erupt into giggles as they all enter the sitting room.)

The silver sedan cruised through the airport parking lot onto the freeway entrance.
GAVIN: (in the backseat) I am so GLAD to be on the ground again.
JIM: (craning his neck from the passenger seat) Tough flight, eh?
GAVIN: Well, I'm not too crazy about flying, but any chance to see Sharon is worth it. You guys have been
out here for quite some time.
JIM: (He pondered Gavin's comment and nodded his head in approval. Gavin sounded like he cared for Sharon and that was good mark in Jim's book) Yea, a few weeks, though it won't be much longer.
GREG: (never one to beat around the bush) So this thing with Sharon...it's serious, eh?
JIM: (gives Greg a dirty look) Greg?
GREG: (surprised) What? We're just protecting her is all.
GAVIN: (recognizes the challenging tone in Greg's manner, smirks a bit) I'm hoping it's serious. She's quite a girl.
GREG: Yes....
GAVIN: And she's a great kisser.
Gregs eyes immediately fly open and into the rear view mirror and Jim snickers until the car swerves into the other lane bringing Greg back to reality. Car horns blast angrily.
JIM: Feckin' hell, Greg! Trying to kill us! Sheesh.
GREG: (Still in surprise at Gavin's starling yet effective remark. Gavin's cleverness impressed Greg and he immediately started to like Sharon's new beau. The guy was funny and quick. Greg smiled.) You don't know how many guys would like to have the chance to say that very same thing, Gav.
GAVIN: (reads the respect in Greg's eyes and he accepts the friendship that seems to come along with it) Well, if I have anything to say about it, her kisses can no longer BE experienced by anyone else.
GREG: (throws his head back and laughs) Well said, mate.
GAVIN: (to Jim) So where is Sharon?
JIM: She's back at the suite. Andrea has a lunch date there. Caroline should be there now too.
GREG: Ah yes, Caroline....(smiles)...she's still single...that's right.
JIM: (rolls eyes) Jaysus, will you give it a rest. (Gavin chuckles.)
GAVIN: Lunch date, huh? Looks like I arrived just in time for the party.
GREG: The food looked good. Or it did until your baby sister kicked me!
JIM: (shaking head) I warned you. If it’s one thing I try to do at all in life, it’s to avoid Andrea’s shin kick.  The woman is vicious.  (Brotherly pride creeping into his voice.)
GAVIN: (after a few moments) So Sharon still doesn't know I'm here, right?
JIM: No idea. I'll bet she'll be quite surprised!
GAVIN: That's what I'm hoping! (looks out the window and watches the world go by) I can't wait to see her face.

Laughter fills the hotel suite a half an hour later.
MARK: Awww...Andrea sounds like she was such a cute kid.
SHARON: (nudges Andrea) Well, you certainly would think that wouldn't you?
ALANA: I don't think she was as messy as you say. She was just "selectively organized" (winks at Andrea)
CAROLINE: She'd lose her own HEAD if it wasn't attached to her shoulders!
ANDREA: (laughs and points to Caroline) Quiet, you.
The laughter dies down as the subject ends.
ALANA: (leans forward and smiles curiously at Sharon and Caroline) So.....how did you two meet? You sound like you've known each other for ages.
Caroline and Sharon look up suddenly. Caroline looks to Sharon for guidance.
CAROLINE: Well.....erm....
SHARON: (is caught off guard so she smiles charmingly to stall) We...
ANDREA: (looks from Caroline to Sharon and bites a cookie she's just dipped in her tea) It was all my doing, really.  They met through me.
Both her older sisters look at her.
ALANA: (fascinated) Really?
ANDREA: Yes. You see...Caroline and I went to school together, she's only a year older than me. And she....would....come home for supper a lot.  (That wasn't exactly a lie now, Andrea thought.)
ALANA: So you all grew up together!  How delightful!
SHARON: Yes, you could say that (hides a grin in her tea cup).
MARK: So you've known each other for a long time?
All 3 sisters nod awkwardly.
ALANA: (innocently curious) So when did you decide you were in love, if I may ask? I know how tough it was for me to "come out of the closet". Was it tough for you to come to terms with being in love after knowing each other so long?
CAROLINE: It...wasn't hard  We were very good friends…(looks at Sharon suppressing a giggle)…almost like SISTERS.
Sharon grins even wider into her tea.  Oh good lord!
MARK: What was it that first attracted you to one another? Did you know that you were both gay?
SHARON: Well. No. (looks at Caroline) We…
Sharon was interrupted, then surprised when Caroline decided to have a bit of fun.
CAROLINE: You see Sharon had always had a THING for me only I didn't think of her that way.
SHARON: No!  It was YOU who adored me?
CAROLINE: (looks at Alana and says under her hand) Don't listen to her, she think the entire world is in love with her.
Andrea looks at Sharon meaningfully and bites back a laugh.  Caroline is being naughty.  Well good for her.  Sharon deserved it after pulling Caroline into this.
ALANA: So how did you find out Sharon had a crush on you?
Sharon winces at the remark and shakes her head with a grin.
CAROLINE: Well…she decided to admit it to me at the local pub one night "pissed", that means "drunk" in Ireland, out of her mind!
All eyes turned to Sharon, she blushes involuntarily and glances at Caroline.  Her sister is enjoying this.
MARK: So what did you do then?
CAROLINE: You mean after I helped her throw up in the toilet?
Sharon's head whips up in surprise and Andrea clutches her stomach, throws her head back and laughs.
SHARON: (between clenched teeth) Now, now…they don't want to hear about that.
CAROLINE: Well, I took her home and…
SHARON: …took complete advantage of me!
CAROLINE: I DID NOT!
SHARON: You did too!  You were a bit ratarsed at that point too.
Andrea was grinning looking from one sister to another.  They should win the "Fibbers Of The Year" award!  And these were HER role models growing up?  She laughed again for good measure.
ANDREA: Aren't they fantastic?  (she looks to Alana and Mark)  They're only kidding.  It's all a part of the "Caroline and Sharon Show"!
SHARON: "SHARON and Caroline show" thank you!
CAROLINE: (huffs with a smirk) Yea, she's OLDER!
ALANA: (leans back satisfied) So you were sexually attracted to one another?  As friends learning of your physically attraction must have been quite a surprise.
CAROLINE: Oh my GOD, you have NO idea.
Sharon and Caroline look at each other and share a laugh.  Suddenly a key jiggling in the door can be heard.
ANDREA: Oh that must be my brother, Jim. (hears him jiggle the door) Hah! (gets up to open the door) He's been having problems with that key. I'll just let them...(She opens the door a little. She sees Jim, sees Greg then sees Gavin.  Andrea opens her eyes wide and slams the door drawing attention from 4 pairs of in the living room. She smiles innocently but her mind draws a blank.)

Andrea props her body heavily against the door.  Mark and Alana look at each other quizzically.  Caroline glances at Sharon who looks at Andrea as if she grew another head.  Suddenly, the door nudges her aside as Jim wheedles his way through the opening.  Andrea smiles innocently at him.
ANDREA: Hi!
JIM: (peeks at Andrea leaning heavily behind the door he's prodding open with his shoulders) WHAT are you doing?
ANDREA: I came to open the door for you.
JIM: Well open it.
ANDREA: I was just giving you a moment to prepare your grand entrance.
JIM: Are you "pissed"?
ANDREA: (thinks of situation ahead) Unfortunately, no.
GREG: (nudges Jim further into the room) Hey! I don't know what he's got in here but it's damned heavy!  Open up! (Greg enters the room and eyes the people sitting at coffee table) Hello! (Looks at Sharon) I've got a surprise for you.
GAVIN: (out from behind Greg, he peeps his head in) Good Day!
Sharon gasps in surprise, gets up in such a hurry she topples her empty tea cup and saucer from her lap.  She looks at Caroline who is dumbfounded.  Jim eyes his sisters.  They look as if they've gotten caught with their hands in the cookie jar!  He knew those looks well.  Something was going on.
SHARON: GAVIN! (Alana and Mark help her to retrieve her tea cup while Sharon looks at Caroline, who shrugs, then looks at Andrea who quickly inserts her thumb in her mouth.) Ooh look everyone. Gavin's here...
MARK: (whispers to Caroline) Who's Gavin?
CAROLINE: (not thinking answers) I'm waiting to find out, myself.
Gavin drops his bag and eagerly walks to Sharon, but before he reaches her Andrea takes her thumb out of her mouth and blurts out.
ANDREA: Gavin's our COUSIN!
Gavin stops and ALL eyes go to Andrea.  Gavin looks at Sharon, then raises an eyebrow at Andrea.  He studies the two strangers sitting on the couch eyeing him with interest.  What had he just stumbled into?  He turns to Jim who has his hands on his hips pinned stare at Andrea.
GAVIN: Hello (nods to strangers, gaze rests on Caroline who is sitting across from them).  Hi Caroline.
CAROLINE: (remembers her comment to Mark, turns to Gavin)  Do we know each other?  (She giggles uncomfortably.)
GAVIN: (looks around the room casually but is completely mystified, but is smart to know that something is up).  Yes we met before…briefly.
GREG: (whispers in Jim's ear when no one is looking)  I think I saw this on an episode of the "Twilight Zone" once.  A man steps off a plane and no one knows who he is!
JIM: (rolls eyes at Greg and then introduces himself) Hi, I'm Jim.
ALANA: Ooh yes, the older brother we've been hearing about.  I'm Alana and this is my cousin, Mark.
JIM: This is my friend Greg. (motions to Gavin)  And that's Gavin.
After handshakes are exchanged, Sharon glances at Gavin.  She wasn't sure what he was doing here but she was very happy about it.  She tried to contain her excitement.
SHARON: What are you doing here?
GAVIN: (letting his confusion slip a little) I...don't know (looks into Sharon's face and recovers.)  I mean, I thought I'd come and spend some time with (eyes dart to Andrea) my COUSINS in America. I arranged some time off because I wanted to really see y-...them.
Sharon and Gavin share an unnoticed smile.
SHARON: Well I'm very glad you came.  "We"…haven't seen you in so long!
Andrea sees the look on Gavin's face and glances at Mark.  She then shoots Caroline a meaningful look and Caroline reads the message in her eyes.
CAROLINE: Yes, Gavin!  Now I remember you!
Caroline walks to Sharon and, for their American guests' benefit, she throws her arm around Sharon's shoulders.  Sharon pops out of her romantic reverie as reality dawns.  Her eyes dart to Alana and Mark who are talking with Greg.
ALANA: Well this is fantastic!  The more the merrier, I say!
MARK: Larger numbers always make a party!
GREG: So what are we talking about then?
Greg moves to the couch and sits, after grabbing a handful of cookies, and relaxes.  Gavin takes a seat while Sharon and Caroline are standing side by side.
ALANA: Sharon's love life.
GAVIN: Really? (watches Sharon turn bright red)
MARK: We were asking Sharon and Caroline when they first discovered they were in love.
JIM: Excuse me? (is about to sit down but is startled back into standing.
Sharon's eyes fly down to Gavin's.  Andrea shuffles her feet near the door.
CAROLINE: (looks at Alana and Mark and says) He didn't know. (Then eyes immediately go to Jim's suspicious face.  Caroline scoots further behind Sharon smiling innocently at her older brother.)
MARK: Grr...sorry. Looks like we spilled the beans.
GAVIN: Hang on. Sharon and CAROLINE are dating?
Alana reads Caroline's awkward reaction to Jim as a fear of being revealed as his sister's lover. She feels a bit defensive for Caroline.  She knows how tough it is to be a gay female in a close minded society.
ALANA: Does that upset you, Jim?
JIM: (while putting more concentration on studying his sisters' reactions)  Does what upset me?
ALANA: That Sharon is having a sexual relationship with Caroline.
Greg chokes on a cookie, Andrea's eyes shoot to Jim.  Sharon is cool and aloof and Caroline moves further disappearing behind Sharon completely.  Gavin, arms crossed, stares at the floor and waits for someone to make sense of all this.
Jim stares and blinks at Alana with a handsome frown on his face.  What the hell is going on?  He shakes his head hoping some logical explanation will pop up soon.
JIM: (looks from Caroline to Sharon) Caroline. And Sharon...having sex. (shakes head) This is NOT the vision I want in my head, I can tell you that much.
GREG: (glazed expression in his eyes)  Speak for yourself, it's better than every good DREAM I've ever had!
ALANA:  Why is that the typical MALE response to a beautiful LESBIAN relationship?
JIM: Huh?
Everyone is too busy with the interaction between Alana and Jim that Gavin's swift attention to Sharon goes unnoticed.  Sharon looks down at him and pleads for his patience.  She extends a hand alerting that there's an explanation.  He reigns in his inquisitive nature, using all the skills he utilizes in his profession.
ALANA: (to Jim) We're sorry if we've caused some trouble here but maybe it's better if we get this out in the open. Don't you agree Caroline?
CAROLINE: (still hiding behind Sharon)  Um…(peeks at Jim, then hides behind Sharon again)…I suppose.
Sharon decides that this twisted misunderstanding has gone on long enough.  She didn't like losing control of any situation, so true to her nature she organized her thoughts and took charge.
SHARON: Alana (smiles reassuringly)  I can handle my brother.  I see we've shocked him.  If you'll excuse us. (looks sympathetically at a confused Jim)  We need to talk. (She doesn't wait for anyone to reply before she heads to the kitchen)  Gavin bring that platter into the kitchen please.  (She wanted him to know what was going on as well.)
Gavin and Jim follow Sharon into the kitchen.
CAROLINE: (Looks at Alana and Mark)  Well now isn't this exciting.
ALANA: I'm sorry if we messed things up for you.  I know I can be pretty defensive about my own sexuality.  I shouldn't have been so…abrupt with Jim.
ANDREA: Oh Jim will be okay.  He's a supportive brother.  Sharon will explain EVERYTHING to him.
SHARON: (sticks head out) Erm Greg?  Can you bring that tea pot in.  We need refills.  (She crooks her finger in invitation).
Greg looks at the table only to find Caroline handing him the tea pot eagerly.  Caroline thought he needed to hear what was going on too.
GREG: (looks at Sharon, then Caroline and then Andrea) Alright. I'm coming.
 

In The kitchen, Jim impatiently sets hands on hips and Gavin is calmly pensive with his arms crossed.  Greg enters.
SHARON: (turns to all of them, hands extended in front of her) Now I know you're all wondering...(sees Jim nodding)...what is going on.
JIM: (points out to the living room) Why does that woman think you and Caroline are having sex?
SHARON: (tries to hold back a giggle but is unsuccessful.) Because that's what we've told her.
Gavin hides a laugh hehind his hand.  He was absolutely charmed by this woman.  A moment was never boring with her.
JIM: You WHAT? (stutters) Why on earth would you do that?
GREG: (takes a stab at humor) This isn't some sort of "Shakespearean thing" is it? Incest, tragedy....
SHARON: (rolls eyes) It's all innocent and boring, I assure you.
GAVIN: (chuckles) Doesn't sound like it. Why do I get the feeling that this was all instigated by YOU.
SHARON: (heart fills at the sight of Gavin's boyish grin, but feigns offense) INSTIGATED? (pokes him in the chest for good measure) Is this a cross examination, COUNSELOR?  I object!  It all started out very innocently until she CAME ON to me.
GREG: CAROLINE?!?
SHARON: No, stupid! (Jim swats Greg on the arm and Sharon rolls her eyes, then looks at Gavin) Alana.
GAVIN: (eyebrow raised) "Came on to you"? How?
SHARON: Well, she tried to kiss me.
GREG: (excited) Are you sure?
SHARON: (sarcastic smile) Gee Greg, I didn't bother to clarify her intentions when she was LYING on top of me.
GAVIN: When she was...
SHARON: Yes.
Sharon looks around the room. Gavin is blinking in surprise.  Jim is frowning pensively.  Greg has his arms crossed looking at everyone else.)
GAVIN: (Finally speaks, his keen barrister's mind knowing there must be more to the story) WHERE did she get the impression that you were gay?
SHARON: (looks a bit guilty now) Well...uhm...I sort of...mentioned I was gay to her cousin. (flashes smile at Gavin's wide eyed look)
JIM: (leans against counter and chuckles, shaking his head, with his arms crossed) I can't wait to hear this.
GAVIN: (open mouth and closes it) You aren't....are you?
SHARON: (Irish temper flares) No! You clod! Would I be wasting time with YOU if I was!?! (hands on hips, glares at GAVIN)
Jim notices his sister's temper and approvingly adds that to his mental point list of this relationship. Sharon rarely loses her temper. Yep. She is head over heels for this barrister of hers.
JIM: Okay, so let's go back. Her cousin...
SHARON: Yes. HE (emphasizes the gender) tried to chat me up last night. When I didn't INVITE him up to my ROOM...
GAVIN: (jealousy rears at the thought of Sharon with another man) Bloody Hell.
SHARON: Hello, when I TURNED HIM DOWN, (glares again), he assumed I was gay. I didn't correct him.  That was it.
JIM: (begins to understand, but then stops) And Caroline?
SHARON: (waves the question off) She just came in at the right time.
GREG: (Speaks up after being so quiet, enjoying the story) Why didn't you just tell her you weren't gay?
Sharon brings her palm up to her forhead.  She thinks she's getting a head ache)
SHARON: Because I didn't want to hurt her feelings. She's just been through a nasty break up and she didn't need any more rejection. Telling her I was involved with a woman (looks at Gavin), instead of a MAN, seemed like an easier blow. Caroline walked in. We pretended that we were an item and everything was fine.  We're only here for a short while longer.
GREG: (looks at Sharon, then at Jim and Gavin, shrugs) Well, sounds like she's explained herself. (Sharon looks appreciatively at the support from Greg and he gives her a brotherly wink) Now, can we eat?  I'm starving!
Greg's humor breaks the tension. Everyone relaxes.
JIM: (sighs) Is there anything else I need to know? (jokes) Is Andrea having that man's love child?
SHARON: Don't be daft.
JIM: (grins) PFFT! (then walks out to the living room)
Greg grabs a chicken leg under a foil covered tray and exits the kitchen leaving Sharon and Gavin together.  Sharon fiddles the foil back in place. Gavin watches her movement.
Gavin suddenly catches Sharon off guard by whirling her around and planting a sizzling kiss on her lips that sends her mind buzzing. When he releases her, he notices her flush face and warm, hazel and surprised eyes. He wiggles his eyebrows.
GAVIN: If I am going to get through today, being just your COUSIN, I'm going to have to take advantage of these quiet moments alone with you.
He winks and whistles leaving the kitchen trying to hide his own heart racing response to that kiss.  Sharon watches his back as he leaves. After a kiss like that, how will SHE get through today trying to pretend he is just her cousin?

ALANA: Andrea that was delicious!
The living room was cluttered with empty plates and seven tummies that were delightfully satisfied.
GAVIN: (sitting next to Sharon) That was marvelous.  Much better than the piddly airplane meal I was served.
GREG: (laughs) And what did they try to POISON you with?
GAVIN: Some chicken/mushroom slop.  It was absolutely grotesque.
Everyone laughs.  Sharon looks at Gavin and her pulse races.  She catches Caroline looking at the two of them.  Caroline looks at Sharon knowingly and rolls her eyes smiling.
MARK: So Gavin.  What is it that you do?
GAVIN: (wiping his mouth clean with a napkin) I'm a barrister.
MARK: That's some kind of lawyer, right?
GAVIN: (nods) Yes.  I'm a member of one of the Inns Of Court and who has the privilege of pleading in the higher courts of Britain.
SHARON: (cheeky smile) All they need to know is it's a British and Australian term for LAWYER.  (Winks at Mark)  Everything else is rather BORING.
Sharon looks at Gavin and delivers a charming smile that gives Gavin a flutter in his stomach.  Gavin concentrates and thinks to himself, "Cousin, cousin, cousin…she's my cousin…"
ANDREA: (laughs) I think Jim would have made a good lawyer.
JIM: (scoffs) Based on what?
ANDREA: Based on how many times he's tried to talk himself out of punishment!  (The entire room laughs.)
JIM: Thank goodness for MUSIC.  I don't know what I would have done, had it not been for the piano and guitar.
ALANA: Oh?  You play instruments?
JIM: (without hesititation, states proudly) We all do!  That will be our claim to fame one day.
ALANA: (sits up in recognition) Wait a minute!  YOU'RE THE CORRS!
Jim looks uncomfortably at Sharon, who is sat with a wide eyed look on her face.  Andrea has suddenly gone pale and Caroline looks at her siblings cautiously.
CAROLINE: Yeah, have you heard of (she almost says "us") them?
ALANA: Yes I have.  (looks back at Jim) You are marvelous!  I've only heard one song though.  On the radio.  Erm…(thinks about title)
GREG: (is interested in this new turn offers) "Runaway"
ALANA: YES! That's it.  (She points at Jim)  Did you write that?
SHARON: We all helped but it was Andrea's inspiration.  (uncomfortable tries to change subject) More coffee?
ALANA: Let's see what I can remember. (Alana gets up and starts to pace the room.) I love hearing about new bands!  (She crosses over to Andrea and squeezes her shoulders.)  You did such a great job with that song!  I was mesmerized the 1st time I heard it!
Andrea smiles thankfully then uncertainly shoots Jim a look of worry.  Jim tries to cover his face in embarrassment at starting an unwelcome topic.
ALANA: There's FOUR of you right?  Three sisters and a brother.  (Jim slumps down even farther as everyone else watches Alana closely.  Caroline is watching everyone's expression as Sharon looks at Gavin.  Andrea grabs Mark's hand, just in case he wants to run after everything is revealed.)  But, there's only three of you here.  (Caroline laughs a little uneasily and Alana looks at her.
MARK: (looks at Andrea oddly and she blushes under his scrutiny)  I didn't know you were a singer.
ALANA: Isn't there another sister?
ANDREA: Mark…
SHARON: Alana…
JIM: (throws hands down) She left for Ireland this morning. (Jim ignores his sisters' shocked stares.)  It's too bad you didn't get to meet her.  She had to leave on emergency.  Greg and I drove her to the airport.
GREG: Yea…poor thing was so worried.
MARK (looks delightedly at Andrea) Cool, so there's more of you?  What's her name?
Andrea looks at Alana curiously.  How much does she know about the band?
ANDREA: Um…GEORGIE.
Sharon raises her eyebrows and Caroline hangs her mouth open in part shock, part distaste.
MARK: (tests the name out)  Georgie…what an interesting name.
SHARON: (looks at Caroline) It's short for "Georgina".
CAROLINE: (curses under breath) Good God! (all eyes turn to her and she tries to cover her slip)  That lunch was so good!
GAVIN: (studies Alana) So are you a big fan then?
ALANA: Hmmm?  Oh…well (looks embarrassed)…no.  I only heard that one song and remembered hearing that there were four of you, brother and sisters.  I don't own an album or anything.
The Corrs breathed a sigh of relief.  This was an unusual situation.  Sharon winced at how dishonest this was becoming, but what could she do?  Maybe they would be able to drop the subject now that was over.  At that moment, Mark spoke up.
MARK: (diverts his attention to Andrea)  So tell me all about your sister Georgie.  What's she like?

ANDREA: Georgie?
MARK: Yea!  You have such a wonderful family.  I'm delighted to know there's more of you.
Andrea notes Mark's enthusiasm about another Corr sibling that really doesn't exist.  She looks at Sharon who is nodding her head encouraging Andrea to say something and she sees Caroline shaking her head "no" as if to confirm Andrea's thoughts.  This was getting a little crazy.  She thought about just telling Mark the truth.  Her father's words came to her in a sweet father/daughter memory, "Tell the truth and shame the devil, Andy girl."  She turned to Mark.
MARK: Is she as sweetly innocent, caring and honest as you are?
Andrea's eyes dart to Caroline.
ALANA: I bet she's beautiful.  You all seem to have striking genes.
ANDREA: Well…
Andrea grabs her teacup from the table and drinks trying to wet her suddenly parched throat.  In that moment she wishes it were a Guiness.
ANDREA: Georgie is such a remarkable girl.
SHARON: Incredibly understanding and always supportive.
Sharon glances at Caroline.  Caroline rolls her eyes knowing Sharon is commenting on HER participation in this fib. Caroline picks up her own cup and drinks.
JIM: But she can be so FLIGHTY at times.
Caroline spits the tea back into her cup on a cough.  Sharon pats her back in a giggle.
SHARON: Careful, DARLING.  We don't want you choking now.  Andrea's no good at the Heimlick maneuver.
Andrea rolls her eyes at Sharon's reference to this morning.
CAROLINE: Yes, right.
Caroline looks at Andrea and dabs the corners of her mouth with a napkin, then glares at Jim.
ANDREA: Now Jim that's not true.  (Andrea winks at Sharon)  She's only a BIT flighty.
JIM: She's always stealing my PINTS.  (Jim winks at Caroline when no one is looking.  Caroline bites back a smile and crosses her arms.)
MARK: A drinker, huh?
SHARON: She can drink us ALL under the table!
CAROLINE: A mouse can drink YOU under the table.
Greg winks at Caroline and makes a comment that has her laughing and the other sisters' mouths gaping open.
GREG: She's definitely the hottest of the 3 girls.
SHARON: If you can look past her buckteeth.
ANDREA: And the limp!
Caroline laughs.
CAROLINE: LIARS!  Georgie is GORGEOUS!  A real gem!  She's understanding, encouraging, supportive, talented…(Sharon rolls her eyes and Andrea giggles)..I wish I had a sister like her.
Alana's curiosity is piqued by Caroline's adoration of the missing Corr sister.
ALANA: She sounds fun!  Now where does she fit in the Corr sibling line?
ANDREA: She's a year older than I am.  A few years Sharon's junior and...(looks at Jim)…of course we're ALL younger than Jim. (everyone laughs)
MARK: A year older?  Then that means she's your age Caroline, right.
Caroline whips her head up as the room grows silent.
CAROLINE: Yep.
Mark looks at Andrea and smiles.
MARK: I remember you said that Caroline was a year older than you were and that you all went to school together.
Mark glances at Caroline in realization.
MARK: Does that mean that you and Georgie were in the same class, Caroline?
CAROLINE: (smiles) We were ALWAYS in the same class.
Greg laughs.  Gavin observes.  Jim swallows a knowing chuckle.
ALANA: And how interesting that you and Andrea became closer friends.
CAROLINE: Oh, I'm close with Georgie.  (then mutters under her breath) Closer than you think.
Alana hears her and becomes.  She looks at Sharon, but Sharon just smiles.
MARK: It's such a shame we didn't meet her then.  She sounds like a lot of fun.  I hope it's not a bad emergency that's taken her back to Ireland.
All eyes turn to Jim.
JIM: Erm…no, she just…(looks at Greg)
GREG: Sick son.
Caroline stares at Greg dumbfounded.  Jim covers his face.  Sharon rolls her eyes.
ALANA: She's married?
Alana seems a bit relieved.
SHARON: Uh…no divorced.
Alana's worried look comes back and she looks at Caroline.
GAVIN: (finally speaks up)  Well, erm….I've had a long flight and I was hoping that I could freshen up and maybe lie down once I got here.  It is nighttime where I'm from.
MARK: I've got an idea!  Why don't we have a night on the town tonight?  There's this fantastic club opening up tonight.  Alana's always telling me that I don't get out much.  Neil's going to show us a night on the town.  (Looks at Andrea)  What do you say?  Come dance with me.
JIM: I'm always up for a night of drinking at the clubs.
GREG: And the women.
Sharon and Caroline share a look of concern.
SHARON: Well I don't think…
MARK: Gavin!  We'll show you a real wild night AMERICAN style.
Gavin chuckles and is ready to decline as well.
GREG: Yea, Gavin!  You aren't one of those STUFFY barrister types, are you?
Gavin shakes his head at Greg.
GAVIN: Okay…count me in.
Sharon looks at him and enticingly puts her hands to her hips.
SHARON: You don't have PLANS tonight?
She was already thinking of a romantic evening perfect for them.
MARK: He does now.  My cousin Neil will make sure he's hooked up with someone by the time the night's through.
Caroline stifles a laugh behind her hand and glances at Sharon.
SHARON: Hmmm…on second thought, count me in too.
Jim shakes his head.
JIM: I guess you can count on the whole LOT tagging along.
ALANA: Fantastic!  We'll be back later this evening.  As a matter of fact, I have a friend who owns a top restaurant out here.  I'll buy you guys dinner.
JIM: No that's not necessary.
ALANA: Of course it is!  You're in America!  We're your hosts tonight!  We'll see you later!