Episode 38 – “The Many Phases of Love”
D Previously on the Memoirs of Mayfield: Roughly three weeks after the last episode… Mrs. White and Mrs. Black discuss how to create a cheery upbeat atmosphere at Tudor Close. They decide to re-brick the exterior of Tudor Close. Mrs. White suggests they redesign the Hall since that is where Hugh Black died. Mrs. Black and Mrs. White reminisce the night they buried Monsieur Brunette beneath the Rose Garden. Mr. Green has a brief encounter with Inspector Brown at his office. He pays him off and thanks him for attack Bradford Black with the billiard cue. Miles Meadow-Brook and Madame Rose have teamed up and gone over-board on blackmailing the residents of Hampshire. Jane Meadow-Brook, despite staying married to Miles and living with him, is seeking attention from another man, Rusty, the gardener. She sets up a dinner date for the two of them the following day. In Port Well Penitentiary, Bradford Black is visited by Prince Philippe Azure. Prince Azure tells him that he is now going to find Scott and deal with him on his own. Miss Scarlet confronts Professor Plum about the white powder she found back in Paris. He explains it is a highly effective, yet undetectable poison which he is selling to Mr. Green. Mrs. Black thinks it is a good idea for Scott to talk with Dr. Olive about the stressful things that happened to him in April. Scott guarantees everyone that he is fine. Upstairs, alone in his room, Scott murderously stabs a pillow with a kitchen knife. He takes it to the closet where numerous other ‘dead’ pillows at strewn about…
-Sunday, May 8, 1949 –
-Afternoon-
The sound of a tennis ball being hit breaks the sound of the springtime birds. Mrs. Peacock watches as Miss Scarlet and Chandler Weiss play vigorously at Ceil Drive’s elegant Tennis Courts.
“Oh come on Cynthia,” Mrs. Peacock critiques, “You weren’t even paying attention.”
“Good afternoon,” Colonel Mustard says walking by the public tennis courts
“Algernon,” Mrs. Peacock says walking over to Colonel Mustard, “How are you?”
“I’m doing well, Penelope,” Colonel Mustard says, “I was so pleased to hear that you were exonerated. I find it completely intolerable that the police would be so clumsy as to accuse and publicly announce that you were responsible for such a dreadful deed.”
“Yes the local legislation has its flaws.” Mrs. Peacock smirks.
“I was wondering,” Colonel Mustard says, “Given the events of my fraudulent wife and the fact that we are both outcasts of general society, would you like to have dinner with me tomorrow night?”
“Colonel Mustard,” Mrs. Peacock chuckles, “Are you asking me out on a date?”
“Well,” Colonel Mustard smiles, “I suppose I am.”
“Then it’s a date.” Mrs. Peacock smiles
“A La Carte?” Colonel Mustard says
“Sounds lovely.” Mrs. Peacock smiles, “How about I join you in the rest of your afternoon stroll.”
“I would love the company.” Colonel Mustard smiles
Miss Scarlet and Chandler sit down on the bench.
“That was a fun match.” Miss Scarlet smiles taking a drink from her canteen.
“Cynthia, we need to talk.” Chandler says
“Oh no,” Miss Scarlet’s face turns into a frown, “About what?”
“Everything that’s gone on for the past month.” Chandler says, “Every time I bring it up you seem to avoid it.”
“Avoid it?” Miss Scarlet laughs, “That’s ridiculous. Hello, Colonel.” She calls out waving to her step-mother and Colonel Mustard.
“This is exactly what I’m talking about,” Chandler says, “We need to talk about this.”
“I really don’t want to talk about it, Chandler.” Miss Scarlet says
“We need to lay out the facts and deal with them,” Chandler grabs Cynthia’s arm, “I proposed to you, you turned me down. I resumed an old affair with your step-mother which was a horrible mistake. You became enraged with my involvement with Emily Peach, and rightly so, she sent Dante Egret to attack me after all.”
Miss Scarlet bites her lip.
“Then your step-mother was convicted for murders that both you and I know she committed. You began to have murderous thoughts about me which magically disappeared after witnessing your step-mother killing Helena Black in Paris!” Chandler says
“Alas here we are.” Miss Scarlet says, “We are fine.”
“Your step-mother is guilty!” Chandler says
“No one needs to know this, Chandler!” Miss Scarlet says, “Jesus how irrational can you get?”
“Irrational?” Chandler says, “I have been putting up with this nonsense for weeks. How am being irrational?”
“You didn’t care when we left Helena Black in Paris.” Miss Scarlet says, “You didn’t seem to care that we let that woman bleed to death.”
“She was a wicked woman!” Chandler says, “Much like your step-mother.”
Miss Scarlet remains silently, “You aren’t going to try and apologize for what you just said?”
“I’m done with you,” Chandler says, “I’m done with your step-mother, I’m done with your psychotic murderous hallucinations, I’m done with your secrets, but most of all I am done risking my neck your goddamn problems!”
“Then leave!” Miss Scarlet says, “What we had was never even real!”
“Oh please,” Chandler says, “You begged me to take you back.”
“You begged me to let you stay with me because of what happened at your flat!” Miss Scarlet says, “You are just a toy Chandler, an attractive, blonde tennis coach who comforted me in my darkest hours. But you were nothing more to me than a pillow to hug.”
“Cynthia,” Chandler says, “I honestly thought I loved you. But I our story is over. It’s time for us to move on and start a new chapter in both of our lives.”
At Tudor Close, Madame Rose sits in the Library window seat watching Sylvia Black, Scott, Jet, Dr. Olive, and Mr. Boddy having tea on the Terrace. Mrs. White enters the Library with her feather duster.
“Oh, I’m sorry,” Mrs. White steps back into the Hall, “I didn’t realize someone was using this room.”
“It’s fine Blanche,” Madame Rose says distantly.
“I just wanted to get a little dusting done.” Mrs. White smiles, “I won’t be in the way.”
Madame Rose watches the family outside with concentration and longing.
“Are… are you alright, Claire?” Mrs. White asks
“Today is a very difficult day for me.” Madame Rose says
“Oh,” Mrs. White says, “Well I’m here if you’d like to talk about it.”
“I’ve actually never talked to anyone about this.” Madame Rose says, “Not even my husband.”
“It must be hard keeping something like that bottled up for so long.” Mrs. White says
“Twenty-four years today.” Madame Rose says distantly
Mrs. White resumes to lightly dusting, “I’m sure it will do you good to get it off your chest.”
“It’s my son, Blanche.” Madame Rose turns to her with a distraught look on her face
“I wasn’t aware you had a son.” Mrs. White says
“I do,” Madame Rose says turning back to the window
“You’ve never gotten any letters from him around the holidays.” Mrs. White says
“That’s because he doesn’t know me.” Madame Rose says, “I gave him up for adoption twenty-four years ago.”
“You were living in Hampshire with your husband twenty-four years ago,” Mrs. White says
“Yes but we lived in that little cottage near the forest.” Madame Rose says, “Raphael would often disappear on spiritual expeditions out into Ireland with his followers for months on end. He left me at home pregnant and alone. The only people who had knowledge of my pregnancy were the few people who stopped by for a tea leaf reading.”
“And the doctors?” Mrs. White says
“I delivered the baby myself.” Madame Rose says, “It was a complete surprise for me. I must have miscalculated the months. I bore a baby boy in the middle of a stormy night. I quickly wrapped the baby up, drove to the orphanage, rang the bell, and left him there. I watched from a safe distance as a nun took him inside.”
“Oh my, Claire,” Mrs. White sits down next to her
Madame Rose chokes back her tears, “Tonight will be the twenty-fourth year!”
Mrs. White puts her arm around Madame Rose as she lets out her tears, “I have no idea who adopted him. There is no way of knowing. The only thing I remember is that he had big brown eyes and curly brown hair.”
In the Hall of the Meadow-Brook Home, Miles Meadow-Brook exits his Study and closes the sliding doors just as Jane enters the house. He locks the doors and slips the key in his top pocket.
“Good Afternoon, Jane,” Miles says, “You’ve been out all day.”
Mrs. Meadow-Brook ignores him and walks upstairs. Miles follows her.
“You aren’t still mad at me.” Miles says
Jane continues to ignore him as she enters the Master Bedroom. She walks over to the vanity and lets down her hair.
“I liked your hair up.” Miles says, “It looked very nice.”
“Well it’s a shame I wasn’t wearing it to impress you.” Jane says, “I have a date tomorrow night.”
“Jane that’s illegal!” Miles says
“No,” Jane says, “It’s called having an affair. I’m pretty sure you are familiar with how that works.”
“I thought we were starting everything over.” Miles says
“No,” Jane says, “You blackmailed me into staying married to you.”
“I thought we were past that.” Miles says
Jane rolls her eyes, “No, I still haven’t got past that little gem.”
“Who may I ask is your date with?” Miles asks
“Rusty Naylor.” Jane says confidently as she takes off her pearl necklace
Miles bursts into laughter, “You can’t be serious. You would rather stay mad at an attractive, rich lawyer and lust after a greasy, old gardener?”
“Yes,” Jane says, “And I’ll tell you why. Under your suit in tie is an empty black hole where your heart should be. Under his greasy overalls is a heart that is aching with pain from his past hurts, much like mine.”
“You honestly think that he will heal all your wounds?” asks Miles, “Then what? You will elope with him and commit bigamy.”
“I prefer to be with a man with an ounce of clemency.” Jane says
“You know that I’m never going to agree to the divorce.” Miles says
“Don’t you worry, Mr. Meadow-Brook,” Jane says, “I know the perfect way to end this marriage when I want to. See you are legally married to Jane Emerald. You and I both know that Jane is not my real name. All I have to do is pull out my real birth certificate and I can be free from you and your spite. But the fact of the matter is, I enjoy watching your pathetic attempts at making me feel like I have no say in this matter.”
Miles remains silent
“Miles, I loathe you.” Jane says, “I always will. The only reason we stayed married as long as we did is because we had a daughter to take care of. Now that Jessica is dead and your infidelities are spread all over town, I have no reason to stay married to you. Use your blackmail information against me. I don’t care. But if you honestly love me I know you never will.”
“Oh Jane,” Miles says softly, “I do love you. The blackmail alone should show how desperate I am to stay with you.” Miles puts his hands on her shoulders, “In time I guarantee that you will love me.”
“Get your hands off of me.” Jane says shaking him off, “I want nothing to do with you.” Jane heads for the bedroom door
“Where are you going now?” asks Miles
“If you must know, I am having lunch with Lady Oakwood.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “She’s become rather social lately and she promised that she had some good gossip.”
Across town at the Hampshire Tavern, Percival Oakwood sits at the bar. His face is red and his eyes are puffy. He has a rough chin that is in need for a shave.
“One more.” He orders gruffly.
“I think you’ve had enough.” The bartender says
“Are you denying me service?” asks Percival, “I’m a grown man. I know when I’ve had enough and I said one more!”
The bartender rolls his eyes and pours him another drink, “What is troubling you?”
“I already told it to the morning and night shifts.” Percival says, “Ask them.”
The bartender looks around at the empty tavern, “They aren’t here.”
“It turns out,” Percival sits up semi-straight, “That my parents have been lying to me my entire life about my truth parentage. I was a bloody orphan until that bitch kidnapped me.”
“Who?” asks the bartender
“Oh what does it matter,” Percival says holding his shot glass, “Nothing I can say can heal the wounds. I just have to drown them in cheap liquor.”
“Maybe you could try and find your biological parents.” The bartender suggests
“Didn’t you hear me,” Percival says, “I was kidnapped. I’m not sure they have any paper work filed for the kidnapped baby boy.”
“You never know.” The bartender says
“Besides,” Percival says, “It would only make trouble. If mum knew that I…” Percival stops in midsentence, “That’s it. I need someone who is already on the inside. Do you have a telephone?”
The bartender points to a black telephone on a table near the emergency exit. Percival stands up weakly and staggers over to the telephone while mumbling to himself.
“Operator,” he slurs, “Connect me to the Hampshire convent.” He waits a few moments
“This is Mother Superior,” an elderly woman answers, “How may I help you?”
“I need to speak with Julia.” Percival says
“Who is this?” Mother Superior asks
“It’s her brother,” Percival slurs, “I need to talk to her about something urgent.”
“Are you intoxicated, young man?” asks Mother Superior
“It’s an emergency!” Percival shouts, startling the bartender
“Young man, I’m afraid Miss Oakwood is not allowed to have any outside contact. Surely I wouldn’t make an exception, especially with a man as tipsy as yourself.” Mother Superior says
“I’m her brother!” Percival shouts
“Be that as it may,” Mother Superior says patiently, “I’m under strict order to keep Miss Oakwood from reaching any outsiders.”
“Connect me to Sister Mary Marjorie!” Percival says
“Excuse me?” Mother Superior asks
“She’ll listen to me.” Percival says
“Sister Mary Marjorie was called to help an elderly woman with some pressing matters.” Mother Superior says, “I’m afraid she cannot come to the telephone now.”
“When the hell will she be back?” Percival snaps
“Young man,” Mother Superior says, “I’m afraid I cannot allow you to speak with anyone here. Good day.”
“No wait!” Percival shouts. He hears the phone hang up on the other end, “Damn!”
In his bedroom at the Peacock Residence, Professor Plum buttons up his shirt as Dr. Prussian finishes checking his vitals.
“You appear to be in good shape.” Dr. Prussian says, “It’s been a long time since you’ve been home in Hampshire.”
“Yes, I didn’t plan on spending the better half of it in the hospital because of some car accident in Paris.” Professor Plum lies
“Yes the amount of blood you lost was quite astonishing.” Dr. Prussian says, “If it hadn’t been for your sister giving her blood you may not be here today.”
“Yes, we have an odd relationship, my sister and I.” Professor Plum stands up
“Are you feeling any dizziness?” asks Dr. Prussian
“None.” Professor Plum says
“Is your balance good?” asks Dr. Prussian
“Yes,” Professor Plum says
“Then I don’t see why you shouldn’t go about your normal routine.” Dr. Prussian says
“It’ll be great to get back to normal.” Professor Plum says
“Speaking of normal activities,” Dr. Prussian says, “How would you like to join me and some of my business associates at the country club tomorrow?”
“Are you sure I’m well enough to golf?” asks Professor Plum
“I shouldn’t see why not.” Dr. Prussian says, “Then it is settled. I’ll pick you up tomorrow morning.”
-Late Afternoon-
Madame Rose sits silently in the same place in the Library. She is staring out at the ripples of the lake, which is partially obscured by the Tennis Courts. The sun is beginning its descent, casting dark shadows over the eastern side of Tudor Close. Madame Rose is fingering with the garnet pendant hanging from her neck. Mrs. White enters the room with Sister Mary Marjorie. Madame Rose turns to see them and rises.
“Claire,” Mrs. White says, “I explained everything to Sister Mary Marjorie.”
“Blanche!” Madame Rose gasps with a cross look on her face, “Why would you go and do something like that? I told you this in confidence…”
“Please,” Sister Mary Marjorie raises her hand, “I know how much you love you son and I know that you want to know what became of him.”
Madame Rose nods slowly as she walks over to Mrs. White and Sister Mary Marjorie
“I’m afraid your son passed away shortly after we took him in.” Sister Mary Marjorie says
Madame Rose’s knees buckle. Mrs. White helps her to a chair.
“He had a terrible fever and we hadn’t the proper access to treat him as fully as we’d liked.” Sister Mary Marjorie says
“Are you okay, Claire?” asks Mrs. White
“I’ve been wondering what my son has been doing for the past twenty-four years,” Madame Rose says, “And he didn’t ever live through the first year.”
“I’m so sorry,” Sister Mary Marjorie says
“Sorrow won’t bring him back.” Madame Rose says angrily
At the Meadow-Brook Home, Miles Meadow-Brook sits in front of the fireplace in the Drawing Room. He is silhouetted by flames as Jane enters the house. She ignores Miles as she passes the doorway.
“Jane,” Miles says sotto voce
“What is it now, Miles,” Jane says, “Can’t you tell I have no interest in anything you have to say.”
“I just thought you’d like to enjoy the fire.” Miles says, “It’ll probably be the last one until October.”
“I suppose it will,” Jane says crosses her arms as she enters the toasty room, “I prefer the summer months, so it’s not much of a loss for me.”
“Hmm,” Miles hums silently, “I suppose you are right.” He stands up and hands her a dark brown folder.
“What’s this?” asks Jane
“An empty folder,” Miles says, “I figured you could find a use for it.”
“What used to be in it?” asks Jane as she turns it over in her hands a few times, while examining it.
“Your birth certificate, passport, and paperwork that state you are Marie Emerald.” Miles says, “They were great to use to start the fire.”
“Miles…” Jane’s face turns white, “You burned them?”
“Just like you took control of the offshore account.” Miles says, “Dear Jane, our marriage has been far from perfect over these past few years, we both know that. But we’ve pulled through and made peace with the tension. In fact, I’d grow rather lonely without it.”
“I want out!” Jane says, “I want a divorce.”
“Well we don’t always get what we want, now do we?” Miles says
Jane frantically grabs him by the collar, “If you have any pity in your heart you’ll let me free.”
“You are my wife,” Miles grabs her wrists, “And you will do as I say. Up until this moment I have put up with your dishonesty and disobedience but if you ever dare to raise your voice to me you’ll regret it.”
“You are a monster!” Jane cries
Miles slaps her with the back of his hand, “And you are a murderess. The minute you even leave a hint that you are going to double cross me I will let my good pal, Inspector Brown, in on you and your brother’s little accident in Paris.”
“You wouldn’t,” Jane cries touching her red face
“Try me,” Miles says
Outside of the Hampshire Convent, a woman in a dark cloak makes her way across the old cobblestone street. The glow of a dim street light silhouettes her as she climbs the steps. She reaches for the doorbell when Sister Mary Marjorie steps out of the shadows of the porte cochere.
“Don’t ring the bell,” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “The other sisters will hear.”
“I’m sorry I had to meet you out here,” the woman in the cloak says, “It would be too risky back at home.”
“I understand,” Sister Mary Marjorie says
The woman takes her hands into her grip, “I wanted to thank you personally for lying for me.”
“I understand your reasons.” Sister Mary Marjorie says
“Madame Rose doesn’t deserve to know her son after abandoning him.” The woman says
“Or that her son is alive and well, living in the same town as her.” Sister Mary Marjorie adds
“Now,” the woman says removing the hood of her cloak, revealing herself as Mrs. White, “I need you to do one more thing for me…”
-Sunday, May 8, 1949 –
-Afternoon-
The sound of a tennis ball being hit breaks the sound of the springtime birds. Mrs. Peacock watches as Miss Scarlet and Chandler Weiss play vigorously at Ceil Drive’s elegant Tennis Courts.
“Oh come on Cynthia,” Mrs. Peacock critiques, “You weren’t even paying attention.”
“Good afternoon,” Colonel Mustard says walking by the public tennis courts
“Algernon,” Mrs. Peacock says walking over to Colonel Mustard, “How are you?”
“I’m doing well, Penelope,” Colonel Mustard says, “I was so pleased to hear that you were exonerated. I find it completely intolerable that the police would be so clumsy as to accuse and publicly announce that you were responsible for such a dreadful deed.”
“Yes the local legislation has its flaws.” Mrs. Peacock smirks.
“I was wondering,” Colonel Mustard says, “Given the events of my fraudulent wife and the fact that we are both outcasts of general society, would you like to have dinner with me tomorrow night?”
“Colonel Mustard,” Mrs. Peacock chuckles, “Are you asking me out on a date?”
“Well,” Colonel Mustard smiles, “I suppose I am.”
“Then it’s a date.” Mrs. Peacock smiles
“A La Carte?” Colonel Mustard says
“Sounds lovely.” Mrs. Peacock smiles, “How about I join you in the rest of your afternoon stroll.”
“I would love the company.” Colonel Mustard smiles
Miss Scarlet and Chandler sit down on the bench.
“That was a fun match.” Miss Scarlet smiles taking a drink from her canteen.
“Cynthia, we need to talk.” Chandler says
“Oh no,” Miss Scarlet’s face turns into a frown, “About what?”
“Everything that’s gone on for the past month.” Chandler says, “Every time I bring it up you seem to avoid it.”
“Avoid it?” Miss Scarlet laughs, “That’s ridiculous. Hello, Colonel.” She calls out waving to her step-mother and Colonel Mustard.
“This is exactly what I’m talking about,” Chandler says, “We need to talk about this.”
“I really don’t want to talk about it, Chandler.” Miss Scarlet says
“We need to lay out the facts and deal with them,” Chandler grabs Cynthia’s arm, “I proposed to you, you turned me down. I resumed an old affair with your step-mother which was a horrible mistake. You became enraged with my involvement with Emily Peach, and rightly so, she sent Dante Egret to attack me after all.”
Miss Scarlet bites her lip.
“Then your step-mother was convicted for murders that both you and I know she committed. You began to have murderous thoughts about me which magically disappeared after witnessing your step-mother killing Helena Black in Paris!” Chandler says
“Alas here we are.” Miss Scarlet says, “We are fine.”
“Your step-mother is guilty!” Chandler says
“No one needs to know this, Chandler!” Miss Scarlet says, “Jesus how irrational can you get?”
“Irrational?” Chandler says, “I have been putting up with this nonsense for weeks. How am being irrational?”
“You didn’t care when we left Helena Black in Paris.” Miss Scarlet says, “You didn’t seem to care that we let that woman bleed to death.”
“She was a wicked woman!” Chandler says, “Much like your step-mother.”
Miss Scarlet remains silently, “You aren’t going to try and apologize for what you just said?”
“I’m done with you,” Chandler says, “I’m done with your step-mother, I’m done with your psychotic murderous hallucinations, I’m done with your secrets, but most of all I am done risking my neck your goddamn problems!”
“Then leave!” Miss Scarlet says, “What we had was never even real!”
“Oh please,” Chandler says, “You begged me to take you back.”
“You begged me to let you stay with me because of what happened at your flat!” Miss Scarlet says, “You are just a toy Chandler, an attractive, blonde tennis coach who comforted me in my darkest hours. But you were nothing more to me than a pillow to hug.”
“Cynthia,” Chandler says, “I honestly thought I loved you. But I our story is over. It’s time for us to move on and start a new chapter in both of our lives.”
At Tudor Close, Madame Rose sits in the Library window seat watching Sylvia Black, Scott, Jet, Dr. Olive, and Mr. Boddy having tea on the Terrace. Mrs. White enters the Library with her feather duster.
“Oh, I’m sorry,” Mrs. White steps back into the Hall, “I didn’t realize someone was using this room.”
“It’s fine Blanche,” Madame Rose says distantly.
“I just wanted to get a little dusting done.” Mrs. White smiles, “I won’t be in the way.”
Madame Rose watches the family outside with concentration and longing.
“Are… are you alright, Claire?” Mrs. White asks
“Today is a very difficult day for me.” Madame Rose says
“Oh,” Mrs. White says, “Well I’m here if you’d like to talk about it.”
“I’ve actually never talked to anyone about this.” Madame Rose says, “Not even my husband.”
“It must be hard keeping something like that bottled up for so long.” Mrs. White says
“Twenty-four years today.” Madame Rose says distantly
Mrs. White resumes to lightly dusting, “I’m sure it will do you good to get it off your chest.”
“It’s my son, Blanche.” Madame Rose turns to her with a distraught look on her face
“I wasn’t aware you had a son.” Mrs. White says
“I do,” Madame Rose says turning back to the window
“You’ve never gotten any letters from him around the holidays.” Mrs. White says
“That’s because he doesn’t know me.” Madame Rose says, “I gave him up for adoption twenty-four years ago.”
“You were living in Hampshire with your husband twenty-four years ago,” Mrs. White says
“Yes but we lived in that little cottage near the forest.” Madame Rose says, “Raphael would often disappear on spiritual expeditions out into Ireland with his followers for months on end. He left me at home pregnant and alone. The only people who had knowledge of my pregnancy were the few people who stopped by for a tea leaf reading.”
“And the doctors?” Mrs. White says
“I delivered the baby myself.” Madame Rose says, “It was a complete surprise for me. I must have miscalculated the months. I bore a baby boy in the middle of a stormy night. I quickly wrapped the baby up, drove to the orphanage, rang the bell, and left him there. I watched from a safe distance as a nun took him inside.”
“Oh my, Claire,” Mrs. White sits down next to her
Madame Rose chokes back her tears, “Tonight will be the twenty-fourth year!”
Mrs. White puts her arm around Madame Rose as she lets out her tears, “I have no idea who adopted him. There is no way of knowing. The only thing I remember is that he had big brown eyes and curly brown hair.”
In the Hall of the Meadow-Brook Home, Miles Meadow-Brook exits his Study and closes the sliding doors just as Jane enters the house. He locks the doors and slips the key in his top pocket.
“Good Afternoon, Jane,” Miles says, “You’ve been out all day.”
Mrs. Meadow-Brook ignores him and walks upstairs. Miles follows her.
“You aren’t still mad at me.” Miles says
Jane continues to ignore him as she enters the Master Bedroom. She walks over to the vanity and lets down her hair.
“I liked your hair up.” Miles says, “It looked very nice.”
“Well it’s a shame I wasn’t wearing it to impress you.” Jane says, “I have a date tomorrow night.”
“Jane that’s illegal!” Miles says
“No,” Jane says, “It’s called having an affair. I’m pretty sure you are familiar with how that works.”
“I thought we were starting everything over.” Miles says
“No,” Jane says, “You blackmailed me into staying married to you.”
“I thought we were past that.” Miles says
Jane rolls her eyes, “No, I still haven’t got past that little gem.”
“Who may I ask is your date with?” Miles asks
“Rusty Naylor.” Jane says confidently as she takes off her pearl necklace
Miles bursts into laughter, “You can’t be serious. You would rather stay mad at an attractive, rich lawyer and lust after a greasy, old gardener?”
“Yes,” Jane says, “And I’ll tell you why. Under your suit in tie is an empty black hole where your heart should be. Under his greasy overalls is a heart that is aching with pain from his past hurts, much like mine.”
“You honestly think that he will heal all your wounds?” asks Miles, “Then what? You will elope with him and commit bigamy.”
“I prefer to be with a man with an ounce of clemency.” Jane says
“You know that I’m never going to agree to the divorce.” Miles says
“Don’t you worry, Mr. Meadow-Brook,” Jane says, “I know the perfect way to end this marriage when I want to. See you are legally married to Jane Emerald. You and I both know that Jane is not my real name. All I have to do is pull out my real birth certificate and I can be free from you and your spite. But the fact of the matter is, I enjoy watching your pathetic attempts at making me feel like I have no say in this matter.”
Miles remains silent
“Miles, I loathe you.” Jane says, “I always will. The only reason we stayed married as long as we did is because we had a daughter to take care of. Now that Jessica is dead and your infidelities are spread all over town, I have no reason to stay married to you. Use your blackmail information against me. I don’t care. But if you honestly love me I know you never will.”
“Oh Jane,” Miles says softly, “I do love you. The blackmail alone should show how desperate I am to stay with you.” Miles puts his hands on her shoulders, “In time I guarantee that you will love me.”
“Get your hands off of me.” Jane says shaking him off, “I want nothing to do with you.” Jane heads for the bedroom door
“Where are you going now?” asks Miles
“If you must know, I am having lunch with Lady Oakwood.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “She’s become rather social lately and she promised that she had some good gossip.”
Across town at the Hampshire Tavern, Percival Oakwood sits at the bar. His face is red and his eyes are puffy. He has a rough chin that is in need for a shave.
“One more.” He orders gruffly.
“I think you’ve had enough.” The bartender says
“Are you denying me service?” asks Percival, “I’m a grown man. I know when I’ve had enough and I said one more!”
The bartender rolls his eyes and pours him another drink, “What is troubling you?”
“I already told it to the morning and night shifts.” Percival says, “Ask them.”
The bartender looks around at the empty tavern, “They aren’t here.”
“It turns out,” Percival sits up semi-straight, “That my parents have been lying to me my entire life about my truth parentage. I was a bloody orphan until that bitch kidnapped me.”
“Who?” asks the bartender
“Oh what does it matter,” Percival says holding his shot glass, “Nothing I can say can heal the wounds. I just have to drown them in cheap liquor.”
“Maybe you could try and find your biological parents.” The bartender suggests
“Didn’t you hear me,” Percival says, “I was kidnapped. I’m not sure they have any paper work filed for the kidnapped baby boy.”
“You never know.” The bartender says
“Besides,” Percival says, “It would only make trouble. If mum knew that I…” Percival stops in midsentence, “That’s it. I need someone who is already on the inside. Do you have a telephone?”
The bartender points to a black telephone on a table near the emergency exit. Percival stands up weakly and staggers over to the telephone while mumbling to himself.
“Operator,” he slurs, “Connect me to the Hampshire convent.” He waits a few moments
“This is Mother Superior,” an elderly woman answers, “How may I help you?”
“I need to speak with Julia.” Percival says
“Who is this?” Mother Superior asks
“It’s her brother,” Percival slurs, “I need to talk to her about something urgent.”
“Are you intoxicated, young man?” asks Mother Superior
“It’s an emergency!” Percival shouts, startling the bartender
“Young man, I’m afraid Miss Oakwood is not allowed to have any outside contact. Surely I wouldn’t make an exception, especially with a man as tipsy as yourself.” Mother Superior says
“I’m her brother!” Percival shouts
“Be that as it may,” Mother Superior says patiently, “I’m under strict order to keep Miss Oakwood from reaching any outsiders.”
“Connect me to Sister Mary Marjorie!” Percival says
“Excuse me?” Mother Superior asks
“She’ll listen to me.” Percival says
“Sister Mary Marjorie was called to help an elderly woman with some pressing matters.” Mother Superior says, “I’m afraid she cannot come to the telephone now.”
“When the hell will she be back?” Percival snaps
“Young man,” Mother Superior says, “I’m afraid I cannot allow you to speak with anyone here. Good day.”
“No wait!” Percival shouts. He hears the phone hang up on the other end, “Damn!”
In his bedroom at the Peacock Residence, Professor Plum buttons up his shirt as Dr. Prussian finishes checking his vitals.
“You appear to be in good shape.” Dr. Prussian says, “It’s been a long time since you’ve been home in Hampshire.”
“Yes, I didn’t plan on spending the better half of it in the hospital because of some car accident in Paris.” Professor Plum lies
“Yes the amount of blood you lost was quite astonishing.” Dr. Prussian says, “If it hadn’t been for your sister giving her blood you may not be here today.”
“Yes, we have an odd relationship, my sister and I.” Professor Plum stands up
“Are you feeling any dizziness?” asks Dr. Prussian
“None.” Professor Plum says
“Is your balance good?” asks Dr. Prussian
“Yes,” Professor Plum says
“Then I don’t see why you shouldn’t go about your normal routine.” Dr. Prussian says
“It’ll be great to get back to normal.” Professor Plum says
“Speaking of normal activities,” Dr. Prussian says, “How would you like to join me and some of my business associates at the country club tomorrow?”
“Are you sure I’m well enough to golf?” asks Professor Plum
“I shouldn’t see why not.” Dr. Prussian says, “Then it is settled. I’ll pick you up tomorrow morning.”
-Late Afternoon-
Madame Rose sits silently in the same place in the Library. She is staring out at the ripples of the lake, which is partially obscured by the Tennis Courts. The sun is beginning its descent, casting dark shadows over the eastern side of Tudor Close. Madame Rose is fingering with the garnet pendant hanging from her neck. Mrs. White enters the room with Sister Mary Marjorie. Madame Rose turns to see them and rises.
“Claire,” Mrs. White says, “I explained everything to Sister Mary Marjorie.”
“Blanche!” Madame Rose gasps with a cross look on her face, “Why would you go and do something like that? I told you this in confidence…”
“Please,” Sister Mary Marjorie raises her hand, “I know how much you love you son and I know that you want to know what became of him.”
Madame Rose nods slowly as she walks over to Mrs. White and Sister Mary Marjorie
“I’m afraid your son passed away shortly after we took him in.” Sister Mary Marjorie says
Madame Rose’s knees buckle. Mrs. White helps her to a chair.
“He had a terrible fever and we hadn’t the proper access to treat him as fully as we’d liked.” Sister Mary Marjorie says
“Are you okay, Claire?” asks Mrs. White
“I’ve been wondering what my son has been doing for the past twenty-four years,” Madame Rose says, “And he didn’t ever live through the first year.”
“I’m so sorry,” Sister Mary Marjorie says
“Sorrow won’t bring him back.” Madame Rose says angrily
At the Meadow-Brook Home, Miles Meadow-Brook sits in front of the fireplace in the Drawing Room. He is silhouetted by flames as Jane enters the house. She ignores Miles as she passes the doorway.
“Jane,” Miles says sotto voce
“What is it now, Miles,” Jane says, “Can’t you tell I have no interest in anything you have to say.”
“I just thought you’d like to enjoy the fire.” Miles says, “It’ll probably be the last one until October.”
“I suppose it will,” Jane says crosses her arms as she enters the toasty room, “I prefer the summer months, so it’s not much of a loss for me.”
“Hmm,” Miles hums silently, “I suppose you are right.” He stands up and hands her a dark brown folder.
“What’s this?” asks Jane
“An empty folder,” Miles says, “I figured you could find a use for it.”
“What used to be in it?” asks Jane as she turns it over in her hands a few times, while examining it.
“Your birth certificate, passport, and paperwork that state you are Marie Emerald.” Miles says, “They were great to use to start the fire.”
“Miles…” Jane’s face turns white, “You burned them?”
“Just like you took control of the offshore account.” Miles says, “Dear Jane, our marriage has been far from perfect over these past few years, we both know that. But we’ve pulled through and made peace with the tension. In fact, I’d grow rather lonely without it.”
“I want out!” Jane says, “I want a divorce.”
“Well we don’t always get what we want, now do we?” Miles says
Jane frantically grabs him by the collar, “If you have any pity in your heart you’ll let me free.”
“You are my wife,” Miles grabs her wrists, “And you will do as I say. Up until this moment I have put up with your dishonesty and disobedience but if you ever dare to raise your voice to me you’ll regret it.”
“You are a monster!” Jane cries
Miles slaps her with the back of his hand, “And you are a murderess. The minute you even leave a hint that you are going to double cross me I will let my good pal, Inspector Brown, in on you and your brother’s little accident in Paris.”
“You wouldn’t,” Jane cries touching her red face
“Try me,” Miles says
Outside of the Hampshire Convent, a woman in a dark cloak makes her way across the old cobblestone street. The glow of a dim street light silhouettes her as she climbs the steps. She reaches for the doorbell when Sister Mary Marjorie steps out of the shadows of the porte cochere.
“Don’t ring the bell,” Sister Mary Marjorie says, “The other sisters will hear.”
“I’m sorry I had to meet you out here,” the woman in the cloak says, “It would be too risky back at home.”
“I understand,” Sister Mary Marjorie says
The woman takes her hands into her grip, “I wanted to thank you personally for lying for me.”
“I understand your reasons.” Sister Mary Marjorie says
“Madame Rose doesn’t deserve to know her son after abandoning him.” The woman says
“Or that her son is alive and well, living in the same town as her.” Sister Mary Marjorie adds
“Now,” the woman says removing the hood of her cloak, revealing herself as Mrs. White, “I need you to do one more thing for me…”